Diwali's Shadow

It was that time of year again when the whole city seemed to be wrapped in tiny twinkling lights. Diwali in Mumbai was like stepping into a fairy tale, with everything ablaze in colors of happiness and hope floating in the air. Rohan leaned back in his chair, gazing through his window at the fireworks leaping across the sky. Sweet-smelling smoke mingled with city traffic, making his office smell half like a temple and half like a bustling street market. "Another missing person's case," he murmured, crumpling the police report he had marked up with red pen. It didn't surprise him that people tended to wander off, their lives scattered in the electric, dizzying riot of Diwali. Ami sat across from him, her eyes reflecting the chaotic sparkle of the city outside. "It's my brother, Rahul. He always calls during Diwali, without fail. And now... nothing," she said, her voice trembling while trying to stay stern. Rohan tugged at the corner of a photograph sprawled across his desk. "Anything unusual you've noticed this time 'round? No enemies lurking, debts unpaid?" She shook her head. "Rahul's not the type. A computer engineer; loads of friends, never enemies." Rohan fetched his coat. "Let's do a sweep of his usual hangouts. It's not much, but maybe something will surface." They walked through throngs celebrating the festival of lights. Stores boasted colorful drapery, while laughter and shouting whirled around them like a vibrant tornado. Amidst the cheer, Rohan felt a peculiar chill. Rahul's usual café was dimly lit, a stark contrast to the city's radiant spirit. An old sign above the door creaked sadly in the breeze. "Had any odd encounters lately? Anyone asking after Rahul?" Rohan inquired of the cautious barista, who winced. "Can't say, but you might wanna check that abandoned alley near the old theater," he replied reluctantly. Treading carefully, Rohan and Ami entered a labyrinth of dark streets, save for the exploding fireworks above. Faint shadows wavered, skittish but threatening. "I feel like we're being watched," Ami whispered, instinctively glancing over her shoulder. "That's the danger of dark places in a city of lights," Rohan noted dryly. Suddenly, a firecracker's explosive burst masked a cry for help. Rohan's heart raced as he dashed toward the source, Ami close behind. They stumbled upon a group of men huddled near a figure on the ground - Rahul. "What's going on here?" Rohan demanded, ignoring the pounding rhythm in his ears. One of the men, lanky and unkempt, tipped his cap. "Private party, mate. Best make yourself scarce." Rohan reached for Ami's hand, urging her back. "Wasn't inviting you folks anyway," Rohan said, pulling out his phone. "And the police are just so eager for surprises on Diwali, huh?" At the word "police," the group scattered like autumn leaves in the wind, leaving Rahul groaning but alive. Helping him up, curing the city's aura returned. "They must have followed him from the café; they sensed his generosity," Ami huffed. Back in Rohan's office, Rahul, stitched up from a brief hospital trip, sat grateful but weary. "I owe you one, detective," he muttered. "Nowhere in Diwali lore does it say mischief shouldn't crop up beneath the joy," Rohan quipped. "But next time, keep your Diwali gifts a wee bit more subtle, would you?" Rahul laughed, a genuine relief threading his chuckle. "Or maybe go abroad? Spend some exotic Diwali—safe and sound." As the night's finale of brilliant illuminations adorned the skyline, Rohan reflected for a moment. Diwali wasn't just illuminations, but darkness woven in too. In that complexity lay its beauty. As he looked over at Rahul and Ami, city lights framing them like a portrait, he felt lighter, satisfied. A new day; yet more mysteries among the glitter and wonder. But for now, amidst it all, hope shone a little bit brighter.