BEDIL SHERGILL || ✔ ||

[30]: Search For Clues

SHERGILL ESTATE

The grand Shergill estate loomed ahead, its once-majestic facade now tarnished by neglect and shadowed by secrets. Drishti stood at the entrance, her heart racing as they prepared to delve into the mysteries hidden within its walls.

"Ready to unlock some family secrets?" Yash quipped, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he nudged Drishti's shoulder playfully. "Or are we just here for the ambiance? I could use a good ghost story!"

Drishti rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "Focus, Yash. This is serious."

"Seriousness is overrated," he replied dramatically, placing a hand over his heart. "But for you, I'll try. I mean, how many ghosts can we find?"

Rakshit stood slightly apart, arms crossed and eyes narrowing at the easy camaraderie between Drishti and Yash. A familiar sense of jealousy gnawed at him. "Can we get moving? The sooner we find something, the sooner we can leave," he said, attempting to keep his tone steady despite the irritation bubbling beneath the surface.

Divya, ever the mediator, shot Rakshit a teasing look. "You're not afraid of a little investigation, are you? Or are you just worried we might uncover something embarrassing about your family?"

"Embarrassing? You mean how much of a mama's boy Rakshit was?" Yash chimed in, laughter dancing in his voice.

Rakshit shot him a glare. "Very funny, Yash. Let's just focus on the task at hand."

As they entered the estate, the air felt thick with memories. Dust motes danced in the shafts of light filtering through the tall windows, illuminating the scattered remnants of a once-vibrant life. They moved cautiously, the floorboards creaking beneath their weight.

"Is it just me, or does this place feel like a horror movie set?" Drishti murmured, her gaze lingering on the faded portraits lining the walls.

"Only if you scream like a banshee," Yash teased, stepping closer to her. "I'll be right here to save you, my dear damsel. I may not have a sword, but I can definitely wield sarcasm."

"Thanks, but I'll pass," Drishti retorted, shaking her head, though a small smile crept onto her lips.

Rakshit felt a twinge of annoyance at Yash's flirtation. "Let's split up and cover more ground," Akshit suggested, trying to keep the mood light. "Yash, you're with Divya. Rakshit and Drishti can check the study."

"Great, a perfect match-up," Yash said, winking at Drishti. "I can see the chemistry already! You know, it's not every day you get to investigate your own family drama."

Rakshit's jaw tightened. "Let's just get to work."

As they entered the study, Drishti felt a rush of nostalgia. She approached the desk, her fingers grazing the dust-covered surface. "There's got to be something here," she said, scanning the room.

"Look for anything that stands out," Rakshit suggested, trying to keep his focus on the task instead of the warmth spreading through him at the sight of Drishti's determined expression.

Moments later, Drishti noticed a small, ornate box tucked away on a shelf. "What's this?" she asked, carefully retrieving it.

Rakshit leaned closer, his breath hitching slightly as their shoulders brushed. "Open it."

With a slight tremor of anticipation, Drishti opened the box, revealing a collection of old photographs and letters. Her heart sank as she recognized a picture of her mother with Ravi, both young and full of life.

"Wow, look at those two" Yash's voice rang out as he peeked into the room, noticing the photos. "Looks like Drishti's mom had quite the history! I bet your dad was a total charmer, right? Or was it the other way around?"