Chapter 24 The Verdict

• Inspector Vale set down her spoon with a soft clink against the bowl. She did not smile. She did not frown. She simply reached for her notebook, made a small notation, and looked at me with those sharp, unreadable eyes.
• "The broth is clear and well-seasoned. There is depth without heaviness, which is difficult to achieve with such limited ingredients." She paused. "Tell me how you made it."
• I picked up my charcoal and wrote on the wall: Bones roasted first. Then simmered with wild mushrooms, onions, and herbs. Skimmed constantly. Six hours.