Page 60 of The Catcher
A recliner chair lay overturned, its once-comfortable embrace now abandoned amidst the chaos of the raid. Nearby, a small side table bore the telltale signs of recent occupancy — an open beer can, and a cigarette smoldering in an ashtray, its scent mingling with the tension.
Porter glanced at McKenzie. “Time to search for that phone.”
19
After the evening sun had melted below the horizon, spreading a golden glow over the tranquil waters of High Peaks, Natalie Ashford led the young couple through the expansive kitchen of the luxurious lakeside property at the end of Abenaki Way. Soft moonlight filtered through the windows, bathing the room in a warm, inviting ambiance as Natalie showcased the heart of the home.
“And here we have the kitchen,” Natalie said with a smile, gesturing toward the gleaming countertops and modern appliances. “With its spacious layout and state-of-the-art amenities, it’s a great place for entertaining friends or just enjoying a quiet evening with family.”
As she continued the tour, Natalie’s voice carried a note of enthusiasm as she highlighted the property’s features. She spoke of the eight-bedroom home with its charming window views of the lake and mountains, the cozyfireplaces that added warmth to the spacious rooms, and the sprawling wrap-around deck that offered breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.
“When you step outside onto the deck, you’ll be greeted by stunning views,” Natalie continued, leading the couple through the sliding glass doors and onto the expansive outdoor living space. “From here, you can enjoy the stately lawn, mature gardens, and private trails that wind through the woods. It’s one of our most private properties.”
As they strolled along the manicured grounds, Natalie painted a picture of idyllic lakeside living, describing the amenities that made it truly unique. She pointed out the private island, the two-slip boathouse, and the sandy-bottom beach cove where one could swim or relax in the evening breeze.
“Just imagine it, guys. You could spend your evenings gathered around the fire pit, roasting marshmallows and watching the stars,” Natalie said, her voice filled with warmth. “There’s something here for everyone, from the tennis court to the cozy nooks where you can unwind and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Adirondacks. You’ll love it!”
Natalie led the couple back inside as the tour drew to a close, only to find Noah in the kitchen waiting for her. “It’s got to be said, the Ashfords really know how to roll out the red carpet to get a yes. A twenty-year-old organic wine imported from Italy,” he said, glancing at the bottle before knocking back a glass. “But be careful. Word to the wise. Please don’t drink too much; they’re liable to take photosof you and then blackmail you. A common tactic used by the Ashford family.”
Natalie was mortified. She glanced at the couple, who looked confused. Natalie faked a laugh. “He’s joking. Please continue to look around. Excuse me while I handle this matter,” she said.
Noah lifted his glass to the couple. “Nice to meet you. Oh, be sure you get the security on the place changed, as her father enjoys watching.” He winked. “If you know what I mean.”
Natalie forcefully took hold of Noah’s arm and led him out of the kitchen and the main doors before shutting them closed. She glanced back over her shoulder before unleashing into him. “What the hell are you doing here, and what was all that about?”
“Oh, did I ruin the tour?” he asked. “Tell me, Natalie, when were you going to tell me? Today? Tomorrow? Or were you going to ignore it and hope I’d leave town with my tail between my legs?”
She offered him a puzzled look. “You’ve lost me.”
“Well, maybe this will prick your memory,” he said, taking out a yellow envelope and handing it to her. She glared at him before reaching into it and retrieving photos. She thumbed through them. “What am I looking at here?”
“Really? You going to play the ignorance card?”
She glanced back at him. “Look, is this a prank? Are you drunk?”
“Drunk? I bet you’d like that. You could take more photos. No, ditch that. Let’s go for the video this time. That always goes over well,” he said loudly.
She handed back the photos. “What the hell has gotten into you?”
“Why did you do it? Huh? Did Daddy put you up to it?”
“You’re making no sense.”
“Was he hoping State would fire me and send me packing? Is this some form of vendetta because I won’t bow down and become a yes-man like my father has?”
Natalie’s expression shifted from confusion to frustration as she listened to Noah’s accusations. She glanced toward the house, her mind racing to comprehend the situation while thinking about how to explain this.
“Noah, I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Natalie said. “I didn’t take those photos and I certainly don’t know anything about a vendetta. I told you before, I am not my father.”
Noah’s eyes narrowed as he studied her reaction, searching for any sign of deception. “Then who did?” he demanded. “These were taken on the night I visited you. Same clothes. That’s even your driveway.”
Natalie shook her head, her frustration mounting. “I don’t know, Noah. I had a lot to drink that night, too. But I can assure you, it wasn’t me,” she said firmly. “One of my staff carried you out and placed you in the car while I got my bag inside. I can ask them, but I don’t see why they would have taken your photo. Now, I’m here to show this property to potential buyers, not to engage in some petty game of espionage. And quite frankly, I don’t appreciate you showing up like this. Now I’m going to have to do some serious damage control.”
Noah chuckled. “Damage control? Natalie, these photos got me removed from the case I’m on. But clearly you don’t care. Oh, no, as long as nothing interferes with making daddy a sale.”
Natalie scoffed, taking a step back and placing a hand on her hip. “Oh, I’m not intelligent enough to run my own company?” She paused. “You assume I’m on his payroll, don’t you?”
“Aren’t you?”
