Vaibhav

The hospital was already awake when Vaibhav arrived.

He had a packed schedule — early rounds, two important consultations, and follow-ups that couldn’t wait. Long days didn’t bother him anymore; they were routine, expected.

His steps automatically led him toward the private ward.

As he opened the door, he paused.

She was there.

Seated beside the bed, hands folded calmly, eyes fixed on the small rise and fall of the boy’s chest. The morning light filtered through the window, resting softly on her face. For a second, he simply observed — surprised, but not unsettled.

“You’re here already,” he said, breaking the silence.

She looked up, concern easing into relief.
“I wanted to check on him before my classes.”

They spoke quietly, mindful of the sleeping child. He explained how the night had gone, the stability of his vitals, and what they should expect next.

“He should gain consciousness in a while, Ms—” he paused, realizing he didn’t know her name.

She smiled faintly.
“Samriddhi.”

Something about the way she said it lingered.

“Yes,” he replied, returning the smile without thinking. “Ms. Samriddhi.”

The name felt… right.

As the conversation continued, his eyes picked up details he hadn’t noticed before — the simplicity of her clothes, the lack of haste in her movements, the quiet strength in the way she listened.

“he’s been very brave,” she said softly, glancing at the boy.

He nodded, admiration flickering briefly in his chest — for her, for the invisible care she carried so naturally.

He went over the precautions again, answering her questions patiently. Time moved slower than usual, but he didn’t mind.

When she finally stood up, she greeted him politely.
“I’ll come again at night. Thank you for everything, doctor.”

As she walked out, he noticed the space she left behind — not empty, just different.

He checked on the boy, made notes, adjusted the drip — professionalism taking over again.

And then, with the day pulling him forward, he moved on to his duties — the memory of a forgotten jhumka still buried somewhere, waiting for the right moment to return.