The Case of the Haunted Haunted House by Drew Hayes

Author:Drew Hayes [Hayes, Drew]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Independently Published
Published: 2021-07-11T15:00:00+00:00

19

No sooner had they hit the road than Watson realized the route changed. Rather than heading right back for the highway, a straight shot from there to the office, Carlton took a small road right next to it, not quite dirt, but nowhere near a major thoroughfare. Not long into the ride, a pair of massive wooden structures popped into view—elevated versions of the fruit stands they’d passed near the mansion.

“Since we’re already here, might as well grab some food,” Carlton explained as they pulled off to the side of the road. Set before them on either side of the street were large displays, only slightly less antagonistic than the ones deeper in the woods.

On the right were many advertisements for Mackle’s Apples, including signs claiming that they would “Cure the stomach pains from lesser fruits” and “Get that nasty plum taste out of your mouth.” On the other hand, the left side of the road also had some aggressive advertising, such as mentioning, “The only vendor on this road without a failed health inspection” and “Free of all toxins commonly found on cheaply grown apples.”

Perhaps sensing Watson’s apprehension, Carlton stepped in. “No love lost between these two, but the food from both is fine. Sometimes we get pies or cobbler for the office; there’s never been an issue.”

Finally finished freeing himself from the confines of the van, Sherman leapt out onto the ground, taking in the entire scene with a sweeping glance, then setting a direct course for Mackle’s Apples. “Come, Watson, let us see what mysteries the local produce holds. Speak softly, one never knows if the ears of corn are nearby and leaned in our direction.”

Watson saw no reason to argue. He’d been hoping to make inroads with these potential witnesses at some point, so this was a golden opportunity. Keeping pace with Sherman, they soon arrived at the wooden apple stand. The entire building, if one could call it that, had a homemade aesthetic that did not inspire confidence. Different types of wood that had clearly been scavenged, a design that left the roof lopsided, and the way it all swayed when the breeze picked up made Watson wonder if they were safe standing so close. It was too late to turn back, however, as a densely bearded face suddenly popped up from under the counter, a bushel of apples held in a pair of sizable arms.

“Afternoon! Haven’t had any new customers in a while. What brings you around?” As the large man set his apples down, he glanced out and noted the Tollamu Entertainment van slightly down the road. “Ahh, you’re with the tour group. Too early for guests. You boys joining the team?”

Despite the dirt on his overalls and the actual twigs in his beard, this man was observant. He’d put their situation together in moments, with only a few clues for context. Watson was glad for the surprise; he was an observant witness who might actually turn out to be useful.

“Absotifferly.” Sherman lifted

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