Page 21 of Twice Missing
"Took Emily," Daniel finished. "How was she killed?"
"Drowning," Noah replied. "Though she'd been hit in the back of the head."
Daniel's brow furrowed. "So she stopped her vehicle on the way home. The question is..."
"Where and why," Noah added. "Yeah, that's what I'm trying to figure out. Anything you can add?"
Daniel leaned back in his chair, his eyes distant. "Maybe. Why don't you come back another day? I'm tired."
Noah could see the game Daniel was playing. He was looking for an outlet, a way to extract as much from Noah as he could — not just about the case, but about life in High Peaks, and life inside Noah himself. It was as if Daniel was trying to pull Noah's mind into the same chaotic state as his own.
"I appreciate the information, Daniel," Noah said, standing up. "I'll be in touch about arranging another visit."
As Noah turned to leave, Daniel called out, "Noah, one more thing."
Noah paused, looking back at the former sheriff.
"Be careful," Daniel said, his voice uncharacteristically serious. "This case... it goes deeper than you think. There are people in High Peaks who don't want the truth to come out. Watch your back."
As Noah walked through the prison corridors, his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and theories. The Mexican cartel connection, the possibility of human trafficking, the involvement of Native Americans — it all seemed too big, too sinister for a small town like High Peaks. Yet, he couldn't shake the feeling that Daniel was telling the truth, or at least part of it.
8
Ashford Royale Casino. The imposing structure rose before him, its modern architecture distinctly different from the natural beauty of Whiteface Mountain looming in the background. Snow fell gently, dusting the windshield with delicate flakes that quickly melted under the warmth of the heater.
Noah sat there for a moment in his car, the evidence bag clutched tightly in his hand. The bracelet inside felt like it weighed a ton, each ounce laden with potential answers and more questions. Dr. Adelaide Chambers' words echoed in his mind, urging him to push past his biases and see what Gabriel Ironwood might know.
Noah's jaw clenched as he remembered his last encounter with Ironwood. The memory of Ray and Maddie being held at gunpoint over a debt still burned hot in his chest. He'd had to empty his savings to clear that debt, a sum Ray was still slowly repaying. So many times, he'd replayed that scenario in his head, wondering whatmight have happened if he'd stormed in with a team of officers. But Gabriel's smug comment about his father knowing where to draw the "thin blue line" had stayed his hand. That, and the nagging suspicion that Luther Ashford's reach extended further than he knew.
With a deep sigh, Noah pocketed the evidence bag and stepped out of the car. The winter stung his cheeks as he made his way towards the casino entrance, joining the steady stream of people already reveling in the holiday season.
The casino's exterior was a dazzling display of lights and decorations. Garlands of evergreen wrapped around columns, twinkling with embedded fairy lights. A massive Christmas tree stood proudly near the entrance, its ornaments glinting in the glow of strategically placed spotlights. The snow added a magical quality to the scene, transforming the casino into a winter wonderland.
As Noah pushed through the revolving doors, he was enveloped by warmth and the cacophony of casino sounds. He stamped his feet on the thick mat just inside, shaking off clumps of snow from his boots. The lobby was a sight to behold, its soaring ceiling adorned with intricate moldings and massive chandeliers that sparkled overhead like constellations.
The space bustled with activity. Cheerful holiday music competed with the chiming of slot machines and the excited chatter of patrons. To his left, a group gathered around a roulette table, their faces a mix of anticipation and disappointment as the wheel spun. To his right, card tables hosted intense games of poker andblackjack, the dealers' hands moving with practiced efficiency.
Noah made his way to the reception counter, his eyes still taking in the opulent surroundings. No expense had been spared in creating an atmosphere of luxury and indulgence. He couldn't help but think of how many people had lost their life savings in places like this, all chasing the elusive dream of striking it rich.
"I'd like to speak with Gabriel Ironwood," Noah said to the clerk behind the counter.
The young woman nodded, lifting a finger as she picked up a phone and murmured quietly into it. After a brief exchange, she turned back to Noah. "He'll be down in a moment. Please take a seat."
Noah sank into one of the plush armchairs scattered throughout the lobby. The leather was soft and supple, cradling him in comfort that seemed at odds with his purpose here. As he waited, a staff member approached, a bright smile plastered on her face.
"Welcome to Ashford Royale! Would you like to take advantage of our new player offer? We're giving $100 in free credit to play today."
Noah waved her off, a tight smile on his face. "No, thank you." He watched as she moved on to the next potential customer, her enthusiasm undimmed. They were like drug dealers, he thought, luring people in with the promise of easy money, knowing that one taste could hook them for life. He remembered Gabriel's offer of an even higher amount, but Noah had sensed the strings attached to that particular deal.
"Mr. Sutherland," a deep voice called out. Noah looked up to see Gabriel Ironwood approaching, flanked by two imposing bouncers.
Ironwood cut an impressive figure as he strode across the lobby. He was tall and well-built, his muscular physique accentuated by a sleek, navy-blue suit. His skin was a deep, rich brown, and his jet-black hair was styled neatly and professionally. A patterned silver tie added a touch of tribal design to his otherwise modern outfit. He exuded an air of authority and confidence that seemed to part the crowd before him.
"Mr. Ironwood," Noah replied, standing to meet him.
A smile played at the corners of Ironwood's mouth. "Decided to take me up on the credit offer?"
"Not exactly," Noah said, reaching into his pocket to produce the evidence bag. "You recognize this?"
