Page 12 of The Catcher
“And that would help me how?”
“You can always take a job as a tour guide.”
Noah chuckled, shaking his head before taking a sip of coffee. “And why would I want to do that?”
“Well, just like there’s an endless number of criminals in these parts, there’s an equal measure of tourists,” Ed explained, his hands moving deftly as he worked. “You’d always be in business. In the summer months, you could offer a charter boat for fishing here on the lake, and in the winter months, cross-country skiing or mountain climbing.”
“Right, because I climb lots of mountains,” Noah replied dryly, a hint of amusement in his voice as he glanced out at the mist-shrouded lake.
Ed jabbed a gnarled finger at him. “You should. You’ve lived here all your life,” Ed retorted. “Okay, not including your little stint down south to sow your wild oats and topiss your old man off. But hey, we’ve all been there, but we all eventually return.” He stopped and got this puzzled expression. “Though, I’m not sure why. This place tests my patience every damn day.”
As they bantered back and forth, the rhythmic sound of Ed’s hammering filled the air, punctuated by occasional curses as he missed the nail and hit his thumb. Noah couldn’t help but smile, grateful for the sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of his current situation.
Ed’s attention shifted, focusing on something behind Noah. “Looks like you got company,” he remarked.
Turning to see who Ed was referring to, Noah spotted the approaching figure making their way down the dock towards the boat. It was Lieutenant Savannah Legacy, his boss at the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI); her unexpected presence stirred a mix of apprehension and curiosity within him.
Noah waved before hopping out of the boat.
“I’ll catch you later, Ed.”
“Remember what I said. Don’t let those bastards wear you down.”
Noah ledSavannah through the cozy warmth of his home to the sunroom, a serene retreat filled with natural light and verdant plants. The sunroom was Noah’s favorite spot in the house, a sanctuary where he could escape the world’s troubles and bask in nature’s embrace.
Large windows offered panoramic views of thesurrounding forest and the shimmering waters of High Peaks Lake beyond. Sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow across the room. Comfortable wicker furniture was arranged in a semicircle, adorned with plush cushions and throws for added coziness.
As Savannah settled into a wicker chair, Noah handed her a steaming cup of coffee. The scent mingled with the earthy fragrance of potted plants, created a soothing ambiance.
From the sunroom, they had a clear view of the dock, where Ed was diligently working on the boat. Savannah nodded towards him, acknowledging his presence. “It’s good to see you staying busy,” she remarked.
“Trying to,” Noah replied with a weary smile, sinking into a nearby chair beside Savannah.
“It can’t be easy with Alicia gone. I would have thought you’d want to move out of this place,” Savannah commented, her tone sympathetic.
“The land was hers, the house I rebuilt after the fire,” Noah explained quietly, his gaze drifting toward the tranquil scenery outside.
“Right,” Savannah nodded, understanding the significance of Noah’s attachment to the property.
The mention of Alicia Michaels, Noah’s girlfriend who had tragically lost her life to an assailant, stung him deeply.
“How’s Cora?” Noah asked about Savannah’s partner.
“Cancer treatment is going well. She’s tired, but still as optimistic as ever.”
“You should bring her out here for dinner.”
“Yeah, it sure is peaceful here. You’ve got a nice place. The kids good?” Savannah inquired, shifting the conversation to a lighter topic.
“Doing well. Mia has her eyes set on a career in the police,” Noah replied with a hint of pride in his voice.
“Local, state?” Savannah asked, her curiosity piqued.
“Sheriff’s Office,” Noah confirmed, his expression thoughtful.
“Of course,” Savannah murmured, her gaze dropping momentarily as she processed the information. “I expect Hugh will be pleased to hear that.”
“He hasn’t seen or spoken to her since the funeral.”
