As the sun dipped behind the horizon, casting long shadows over the quaint streets of Columbus, Indiana, Michaela Pratt, Asher Millstone, Laurel Castillo, Connor Walsh, and Oliver Hampton found themselves standing in front of their temporary abode—a historic Airbnb nestled downtown. Annalise Keating had arranged it all, and as they stepped inside, the grandeur of the place left them speechless.
Michaela sighed, dropping her suitcase onto the hardwood floor. "Wow, Annalise really outdid herself with this one."
"Yeah, this place is incredible," Asher chimed in, scanning the high ceilings and ornate decor.
Laurel nodded in agreement. "I can't believe we get to stay here for two weeks."
Connor smirked. "Well, it's not a vacation, guys. Remember why we're here."
Oliver, always the voice of reason, interjected. "Connor's right. We're here on business. We need to focus on the task at hand."
Their mission loomed over them, a dark cloud amidst the splendor of their surroundings. Annalise had sent them to Columbus to meet with a county attorney and assist the Bartholomew County Police Department with a cold case involving Becca Serrano, a name that rang ominously in their ears.
The first afternoon passed quickly as they unpacked their bags, but as evening settled in, an undeniable restlessness stirred within them.
"I don't know about you guys, but I'm itching to explore," Michaela declared, pacing the length of the spacious living room.
"Exploring sounds like a good idea," Asher agreed eagerly, already reaching for his jacket.
Laurel glanced at the others, her expression cautious. "Are we sure that's a good idea? We're here for a reason."
Connor shrugged. "A little break won't hurt. Besides, it's not like we're going to forget why we're here."
With their decision made, they set out into the cool night air, the streets of Columbus beckoning them with an allure they couldn't resist.
As they wandered through the charming town, laughter and chatter filled the air, momentarily lifting the weight of their mission from their shoulders. But even as they reveled in the moment, a nagging feeling lingered—an unspoken sense of unease that refused to be ignored.
Hours passed, and eventually, they found themselves standing outside a dimly lit cafe, the glow of its neon sign casting long shadows on the sidewalk.
"We should head back," Laurel suggested, her voice tinged with apprehension.
"Yeah, you're right," Oliver agreed, glancing at his watch. "It's getting late."
Reluctantly, they turned to leave, the warmth of the cafe fading behind them as they made their way back to the Airbnb.
But as they walked, a sense of foreboding washed over them, creeping into their minds like a whisper in the dark. And though they tried to push it aside, they couldn't shake the feeling that something was watching, waiting—lurking in the shadows of Columbus, Indiana.