Page 32 of Vanish From Sight

“Among many things. We work closely with the students and the family as we have found that usually gives us the best success.”

“But you cover regular classes?”

“Of course. Writing, math, reading but we also combine that with hiking, skiing, climbing, rope courses, multi-day expeditions. We have wilderness staff that assist with the outdoors. It’s been very effective.”

“Do you recall any problems… people that Katherine said she was having difficulties with or felt threatened by in the days leading up to her stepping down?”

“None that stand out.”

Noah nodded. “Did you have any problems with her as a counselor?”

“None. Trust me when I say that Katherine was by far the best we’ve had here.”

“Well, thank you for your help. If we have any further questions, we’ll be in touch,” Noah said, rising and shaking his hand again. The firm grip Hawthorne had when they arrived had weakened. He could sense worry.

Leaving the campus that morning, Noah couldn’t help but wonder what was the reason behind leaving the job and if there was more to the rector’s story.

As they got into the Bronco, Callie asked, “Do you think he’s telling the truth?”

“I have no reason to think otherwise. Thoughts?” he asked, leaning against the vehicle on the driver’s side as she held the door open on the passenger side.

Callie glanced back at the building. “None right now but I’ve always had my doubts about private institutions.”

Keene wasa small town southeast of High Peaks, a speck on the map with just over a thousand people. It sat along the East Branch of the Ausable River and the foothills of Mount Marcy, the mountain with the highest peak in all of the Adirondacks and New York State. The area included the hamlets of Keene, Keene Valley and St. Huberts.

Most locals agreed that Keene Valley had some of the best views of the region, so much so that it was referred to as “The Home of the High Peaks.” Noah recalled visiting the area with his school to go climbing. With so much rock and ice on both sides of Route 73, and the famous Beer Walls, it drew in climbersfrom out of state, and was considered the go-to for avid outdoor enthusiasts.

“Have you seen Alicia since you’ve returned?” Callie asked, reaching forward and turning up the heat.

Noah adjusted his grip on the steering wheel. “Haven’t had the time between searching for a place and work.”

“I figured she would put you up.”

“How so?”

“Oh, you know, the history you have.”

He glanced over as they got nearer the Evans residence.

“What do you know of that?”

“A little. Mostly from what Luke told me.”

“You see her around much?”

“From time to time. She’s seeing someone.”

Noah cut her another glance. “And that would matter to me because…?”

“Oh, I just thought you two were an item.” Callie said it as if she didn’t care but Noah had a sense she was digging for information.

He chuckled. “Don’t let her ever catch you saying that.”

The Bronco rolled into a gorgeous property framed by acres of woodland. It had 180-degree views of the highest peaks. The home was mid-century modern with a steel roof and sleek, minimalist architecture that seamlessly blended in with its natural surroundings. From the outside, the front of the home featured clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows. The exterior was a mixture of natural wood, stone and glass, creating a sense of harmony with the environment.

As they rolled up the driveway, Noah was taken aback. It had a spacious outdoor deck that was perfect for lounging or taking in the views. It was full of comfortable and stylish outdoor furniture and had a stainless-steel BBQ grill for cooking.

“Quite the property,” Noah muttered. Still, it faded in comparison to the five-million-dollar abode he’d been offered.