Ghost Behind You

1.05. The Mysterious Guest

Mary was in a terrible state. Even though Rose had explained the circumstances surrounding Gary's death, Mary still stubbornly refused to believe that Gary would take his own life. Based on everything Mary knew about him—his personality, his habits—suicide seemed completely out of character. As she put it, "Gary was the kind of guy who'd cry out if he got a paper cut. If he ever were to commit suicide, he'd never choose something like this."

Leaving Mary's room, Rose felt her mood sink. Her best friend from high school was now trapped in a world of grief, and Rose felt utterly helpless. As far as the investigation went, Rose had done everything she could. Elliot was planning to revise the death report, and Gary's parents were on their way. Rose could finally take a break. All she wanted now was a hot shower and some rest. She had decided to stay a bit longer to help Mary with the funeral arrangements, and then they would both head back to Beijing.

Rose had already chosen a room on the second floor. Exhausted, she dragged herself toward the stairs.

As she climbed, a man suddenly appeared in front of her. His steps were so light that she almost bumped into him without realizing he was there. Startled, she gave him an apologetic smile, cursing herself for being so lost in thought.

"Are you alright?" the man asked, his voice polite.

"Huh? Oh, yeah, I'm fine," Rose responded, a bit awkwardly. She looked up at him. He was a young man with dark skin, sharp features, and thin lips, his expression one of genuine concern.

"You don't look fine. You should get some rest," he said gently.

"Yes, I will. I'm heading to my room now." Rose gave him a tired smile and continued up the stairs.

The man didn't leave right away. Instead, he remained at the bottom of the staircase, watching her as she ascended. Just as Rose reached the landing, he suddenly called out to her, "No matter what, don't leave your room tonight. Stay inside and sleep."

Rose froze, mid-step. She turned, baffled by his cryptic advice. Frowning, she hesitated, unsure how to respond.

"It's just a suggestion," the man added, smiling. "I'm a doctor. You really should get some rest."

"Thanks," Rose replied, nodding slightly before continuing up the stairs.

He's definitely not a doctor, Rose thought to herself. A real doctor wouldn't say something like, no matter what, don't leave your room. That was just strange. How could he know I'd even want to go out tonight? Puzzled, she reached the door to room 202.

She hadn't been in the room yet. Tossing her light luggage onto the bed, Rose took a quick look around. The layout was identical to Mary and Gary's room on the first floor—bedroom and bathroom combined. The only difference was the view. From her window, she could see the lake and the small bridges. She was satisfied with the room; it was clean and tidy.

For now, Rose pushed thoughts of Gary and the strange man aside. She stretched her arms, feeling the strain of the day, and pulled out some clean clothes. A shower was exactly what she needed.

To be honest, she felt a bit uneasy about using the bathroom. The strange feeling she'd had earlier, standing in that small space after turning off the halogen lights, still lingered in her mind. That was all in your head, Rose told herself. Just exhaustion from the long trip and all the work. Taking a deep breath, she walked to the bathroom door and opened it.

The bathroom was the same as in room 104—narrow, clean, and bathed in the soft glow of yellow light. There was nothing unsettling about it. Rose stepped inside with her clothes.

As the warm water cascaded over her body, Rose felt relief wash over her. It was as if she were back in her own bathroom at home. She let herself enjoy the moment, clearing her mind.