The Ghost of You

Chapter 1: A Haunting Encounter

"Lingling Kwong." The higher-ranking agent called out, his voice cutting through the buzz of the office.

Lingling looked up from her desk, hastily putting down her half-eaten pork bun. "Yes, sir!" she replied, straightening in her chair and saluting her senior.

Nadech smiled at her reaction, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "Sorry to disturb you during your break, but we have a case that requires your expertise. I need you to investigate this one." He handed Lingling a manila case file, the edges slightly worn from previous handling.

Lingling accepted the file, a mix of excitement and curiosity bubbling inside her. She opened it and began to study its contents, her brow furrowing as she scanned the details. "What's the situation?" she asked, glancing up briefly.

"It's a haunting in a historic mansion on the outskirts of the city," Nadech explained. "Witnesses have reported strange noises, cold spots, and even apparitions. I'm confident you'll handle it well, as always."

"Of course," Lingling replied, her voice steady. She was used to dealing with the paranormal and welcomed the challenge.

"By the way, a new recruit will join you for today. Yaya will introduce her to you later; she's getting her uniform adjusted." Nadech added casually, before turning to leave.

"Oh really? It was hard to find someone willing to join our line of work," Lingling said, surprised.

"I know. That's why we can't lose you, okay? Stay safe," Nadech said, patting Lingling on the shoulder in a gesture of camaraderie before heading out.

Lingling opened the file wider, her eyes landing on a photo of a young woman. The woman was strikingly beautiful, with skin as white as snow and a radiant smile that seemed to light up the page. "Kornnaphat Sethratanapong?" she murmured to herself, intrigued by the photo.

Just then, a familiar voice broke her concentration. "N'Ling."

Lingling looked up again, this time putting down her pork bun with a sense of urgency. "Yes, Ma'am!" she greeted, straightening her posture.

Yaya, her senior and friend, chuckled softly. "You know you don't have to be so formal with me," she said, her laughter lightening the mood in the busy office.

Lingling felt her cheeks heat up. "Sorry, I was too focused, so... well, never mind. What can I help you with, P'Yaya?"

Yaya noticed the file on Lingling's desk, her expression shifting to one of curiosity. "Did Nadech give you that case?"

"Yes, Phi..." Lingling replied, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "It sounds like a challenging one. I can't wait to get started."

"Hmm, I see. Alright, Lingling, I want you to meet our new recruit. This is Pansa Vosbein..." Yaya gestured toward the doorway as a young woman entered, her eyes bright with determination.

"You can call me Milk!" the recruit chimed in, her enthusiasm infectious. She wore a freshly pressed uniform, though it seemed a little loose in some places, hinting that she was still adjusting to her new role.

Lingling smiled warmly, feeling a sense of camaraderie forming. "Nice to meet you, Milk! I'm Lingling. Welcome to the team!"

Milk's eyes lit up. "Thanks! I've always been fascinated by ghost hunting. I can't believe I'm actually here!"

"Just be ready for anything," Lingling advised, her tone half-serious. "It's not all fun and games, but it's definitely rewarding."

"I'm ready!" Milk exclaimed, a determined gleam in her eyes.

Yaya clapped her hands, breaking the moment. "Alright, ladies, let's focus! Lingling, I need you to brief Milk on the case before you head out. And remember, teamwork is key."