(#1 in hauntedmantion)
Ruhi's life has always been overshadowed by something dark. A haunting presence, a cursed bungalow, and the lingering ghost of her twin sister, threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. But when a mysterious figure from t...
I slipped into a long, flowing red cocktail dress, the one that reminded me of Sounak's words about how red suits me perfectly. As I applied a light touch of makeup, just enough to enhance my features, the bold stroke of red lipstick felt like the final piece of armor. Staring at my reflection, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of hope and nerves. Tonight, something felt different-like the air carried a promise.
Esha pulled up in front of my house, leaning out of the window with her usual cheerful grin.
"You're glowing, and you haven't even stepped out yet," she teased as I climbed into the car.
"It's just the makeup," I replied, brushing off the compliment, though her words warmed me.
When we picked up Tanhi, she greeted us with a playful whistle. "Look at you two, stealing the spotlight before the party even starts!"
"You're not exactly blending into the background either," I countered, eyeing her glittery black dress.
Esha turned to me with a knowing smirk. "Red again, huh, Ruhi? You're really playing it bold tonight."
"Isn't that the point?" I shot back, feigning confidence, though inside, her words made my heart race.
Esha chuckled. "Well, bold definitely works on you."
"Careful," I warned dramatically. "Your compliments might go to my head."
Tanhi laughed. "Just don't burn me with all this fire, okay?"
The three of us dissolved into laughter, the car filled with a carefree energy that made me feel lighter.
---
At the farmhouse
The music from Yuvan's farmhouse thumped in the background as we pulled up to the sprawling property.
"This place is so tucked away," Tanhi remarked, peering out at the quiet surroundings.
Esha fumbled with her phone, trying to call Neil. "I can't hear a thing over this music," she muttered, frustration creeping into her tone.
I pointed toward the entrance. "Is that Neil?"
Sure enough, Neil strolled out, his casual confidence impossible to miss. "Took you long enough," he said as we approached.
"Well, excuse us for not being psychic about the layout," Esha retorted, hands on her hips.
He smirked and motioned us inside. "Come on, it's not rocket science."
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Inside, the house exuded elegance. The spacious living area opened into a lively party room, where a group of about 30 people mingled under soft, golden lighting. On one side, a glass wall revealed a beautifully lit garden and a shimmering pool that added a serene touch to the vibrant atmosphere.
"Wow," I murmured, taking it all in.
Esha nudged me. "Less staring, more partying."
But before I could respond, she frowned. "Where's Neil? And Tanhi's gone too!"
I gave her a pointed look. "Do they ever stay in one place?"
"I'm going to find them before they pull some stunt," she grumbled, stalking off.
Left to myself, I wandered toward the glass wall. The hum of conversation and music faded as I looked outside. The garden's soft lights danced off the leaves, and my eyes were drawn to a figure standing at the edge of the pool.
