Facade of Love

Chapter 111 The Castle on the Island

A road stretched out before us as Liam got the car moving again. We followed the path until a lake came into view, with castle–like buildings that looked like they belonged in a medieval painting from centuries past, standing majestically in the middle of the water.

The road to the castle hugged the mountainside, paved with asphalt. I craned my neck to see the cliff we had descended–a sheer drop of a hundred meters. That was where Liam’s ‘elevator‘ clung to the

rock face.

Settling back into my seat, 1 gazed at the castles across the lake and asked, “Is this the only way to get to the castle?“!

Liam nodded. “That’s the general idea. Some might try to come down from the mountains around here, but it’s a risky climb. The slopes are steep and not exactly what you’d call safe.”

I nodded in understanding. The place was ringed by rugged mountains, enclosing the vast lake. It was the kind of spot where only the rich would think to build their grand castles.

Once we got inside, I could tell this place was a fortress of secrecy. If the cops ever tried to dig up here, they would hit a dead end–no way they could sneak in.

It made sense why Officer Jackson had called this spot tricky for the police.

up to a bridge where a guy was waiting. As

dirt

took it with a nod, then took over the parking duties. We crossed

here before. He caught my wary look and flashed me a grin. “No need to worry. It’s all modern

you guess I was

light chuckle. “That’s what the books and movies always go for creepy castles to set

a

stepped into the castle, and it was not the least bit

the old–school facade, it was as modern as any other building. The ground floor was alive with chatter, and folles

in a suit, belly leading the way, noticed us come in and beamed at Liam. “Mr. Young, what a surprise! What brings you to our neck of the woods?”

gave a small nod. “Mr. Ziegler, I heard Mr. Lanier’s back in town. I’m

grin and said, What are you talking about, Mr. Young? My humble spot here isn’t exactly a magnet for the big shots. You’re pulling my leg, right? Plus, everyone knows Mr. Lanier took off years

sent over a gift. I just wanted to drop by and say thanks. You’re not trying to give me the cold shoulder, are you,

to say, Mr. Lanier’s back for real? Let me just check on that.” He pretended to be