Eno Community
"Jack, wake up!"
The familiar voice roused the chubby boy from his slumber. He wiped the drool from the corner of his mouth, unable to recall what he had been dreaming about.
"Ugh, it's the same every day..." Jack groaned, lying in bed for another two minutes before hearing another call from downstairs.
He finally sat up, hurriedly dressed, and went to the bathroom next door to wash up.
After washing, Jack grabbed his schoolbag and headed downstairs, glancing instinctively toward the kitchen. His mother was likely frying pancakes, as usual.
Jack had protested before, hoping for a different breakfast, but his mother had only smiled. The next day, it was still omelets.
But today was different. A tall, handsome young man was busy in the kitchen while his mother sat at the dining table, watching and complaining, "Since when did you learn to cook? Did you cook for that woman when you lived away?"
"Mom, stop talking about her. I told you, I dumped her," Luke replied, making a stopping gesture.
"I still think she dumped you," Linda said with a smirk.
"Believe what you want, I don't care. I've moved on."
Linda sipped her coffee, asking casually, "What does your new girl do?"
"She's a lawyer."
"What? Are you serious?" Linda looked doubtful.
"No joke. She's very pretty and smart."
"Well, good luck to you then. I look forward to meeting her."
"Cool, am I going to have a lawyer sister-in-law? Like from 'Suits'?" Jack interjected.
Luke chuckled, "You're a sweet kid, no wonder Mom likes you so much."
Jack puffed up his chest, "Yeah, who wouldn't like 'Charming Jack'? But I think Mom likes you more."
"I don't like either of you. I'm sick of you two. I hope you both move out soon," Linda said, rolling her eyes.
"Mom, abandoning a minor is illegal. Maybe if you get me a game console, I won't report you," Jack quipped.
"Congratulations, you've just lost your pocket money for this month," Linda shot back.
Jack looked at Luke with an aggrieved expression, "Detective, did you hear that? I want to call the police."
Luke changed the subject, "Alright, breakfast is ready."
Jack wrinkled his nose, "It smells pretty good."
Luke divided the egg fried rice into three portions. The colorful dish included rice, eggs, diced bacon, radishes, onions, shrimp, and peas, providing a balanced and rich flavor.
Jack took a bite and his eyes widened, "Wow, this is good! Different from the restaurant stuff, kind of like what Dad used to make. I like it."
Luke tasted it too, raising an eyebrow. It was indeed delicious, and his cooking skills hadn't faded.
In his previous life, Luke had few hobbies and little time for them. When resting, he'd read novels, watch movies, and cook tasty dishes.
He usually fried leftover rice in the morning, typically with rice, green onions, and eggs, sometimes adding diced radish and ham. This was his first time using such a variety of ingredients, and he felt satisfied eating a whole shrimp.
Linda nodded approvingly, "Not bad. Did you use a Chinese cooking method?"
"Yep."
Linda suggested, "It would taste better with a layer of cheese."
Luke liked cheese on burgers but avoided it in fried rice, finding it too greasy.
Jack finished his plate quickly, not leaving a single grain. "Brother, you should consider a career change. You'd make a great chef."
Luke wasn't considering a career change, but he did want a side job, something easy, profitable, and relying on luck to monetize his detective skills.
Last night, he won $18,000. After cashing out, he could pay off his car loan and have some leftover. However, he hadn't figured out the best way to use it yet.
After breakfast, Luke volunteered to wash the dishes. His mother was pleased with his help and her attitude improved.
Jack went to school, and Linda left as well, leaving Luke alone.
He called Daisy to ask her out for dinner, but she had to work overtime, so they rescheduled for tomorrow.
With nothing to do, Luke lounged on the sofa, watching TV series and ordering fried chicken and beer for lunch.
He continued watching TV series in the afternoon. American TV shows were still quite entertaining.
In the evening, Luke treated everyone to pizza, and the family of three watched "The Maury Show" while eating.
Luke wasn't sure if the show was appropriate for Jack's age, but since his mother didn't object, he didn't interfere.
"The Maury Show" might destroy your worldview, but it was undeniably entertaining. If you're depressed or think you're miserable, watch it. If your life is going smoothly, stay away from this toxic program.
At ten o'clock, Luke went to bed, ending a lazy yet comfortable day. He actually enjoyed this "decadent" lifestyle.
The next day, Luke wanted to continue his lazy routine, but his mother asked him to help out with mowing the lawn and mending the wooden fence, keeping him busy all morning.
After lunch, Luke washed the car, took a shower, and rode out on his Harley.
A little after six in the evening, outside Kervis Law Firm, a woman in a suit and skirt walked out, attracting much attention with her graceful figure.
"Hi, beautiful," Luke called from his Harley.
Daisy hurried over, her ample chest bouncing, "Sorry I'm late."
"Don't do it again," Luke said, a little distracted by her figure.
"Yes, detective. But what if I'm late again?" Daisy teased, her big blue eyes twinkling.
Luke handed her a red helmet, "Get on. I'll take you somewhere."
"I've never ridden a motorcycle before."
"Then you should try it."
Daisy put on the helmet and sat sideways, feeling uneasy. "Are you sure I won't fall off?"
"Hold on to my waist."
"Are you serious?"
Luke didn't answer, starting the Harley and accelerating away.
"Oh my god..." Daisy yelped, clutching Luke tightly, muttering, "What a bad guy."
Initially stiff with nerves, Daisy gradually relaxed after a few streets.
Half an hour later, Luke brought his Harley to Chinatown in Shuanggang District.
Los Angeles has three Chinatowns. The oldest one downtown has more Cantonese people but is rundown. Little Treasure Island has mostly Fujianese. The third, in Shuanggang District, is home to new immigrants and is the best-kept.
Luke chose this place for its home advantage. In addition to looks and finances, one's conversation, manners, and knowledge can attract women's attention. Daisy, being exceptional in beauty, education, and ability, would find Luke's familiarity with Chinese culture impressive.
Luke's humorous and interesting stories captivated Daisy.
To win a girl, show your strengths. Get her interested in something you know well, and the date is halfway successful...