The Jasmine : Wild Fragrance

by Venkat Bathini

  Notion Press

  Old No. 38, New No. 6

  McNichols Road, Chetpet

  Chennai - 600 031

  First Published by Notion Press 2017

  Copyright © Venkat Bathini 2017

  All Rights Reserved.

  ISBN 978-1-946556-03-5

  This book has been published with all reasonable efforts taken to make the material error-free after the consent of the author. No part of this book shall be used, reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

  The Author of this book is solely responsible and liable for its content including but not limited to the views, representations, descriptions, statements, information, opinions and references [“Content”]. The Content of this book shall not constitute or be construed or deemed to reflect the opinion or expression of the Publisher or Editor. Neither the Publisher nor Editor endorse or approve the Content of this book or guarantee the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the Content published herein and do not make any representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose. The Publisher and Editor shall not be liable whatsoever for any errors, omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause or claims for loss or damages of any kind, including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage arising out of use, inability to use, or about the reliability, accuracy or sufficiency of the information contained in this book.

  This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, business, places, events and incidents are either the products of author’s imagination or used in a fictions manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

  Any references or remarks to specific community, caste or religious sect are purely imaginative as a part of fiction. It does not intend to hurt the sentiments of any section and are purely coincidental

  There are references to the certain programs like ‘Mystic India’ or ‘India’s daughter’ being telecasted in popular satellite channels which are either fictious or real have been included to add more realistic approach to the drama. Neither the author nor the publisher should not be held liable/responsible for citing references without permission from respective channels.

  Acknowledgements

  I am a first time writer who has put sincere efforts in writing a genuine novel showcasing the social changes the society in India has undergone.

  It also takes the readers through the paranormal romantic journey of a doctor couple from London and mystery that unravels during this journey.

  I sincerely thank all the readers who take time to go through this novel and appreciate the effort involved. I thank my parents who have given the right upbringing with social awareness and responsibility.

  I thank my dear friend Haneef Mohammed who had always been a great support and believed that I will make a great writer.

  My Family (wife and kids), Friends and every other person close to me who believed in my talent and extended their support.

  Above all, the god almighty (Sri Sadhguru Sainath and Venkateswara Swamy) who gave me this confidence to put my thoughts into words.

  Prologue

  It was a Sunday morning; I was swiftly changing television channels to catch up some news.

  I am Dr. Richard, generally preoccupied at the at King George Hospital located at Central London. Sunday is the only day when I get some time to spend with my family members. My Father Patrick was from India worked as a supervisor in supermarket and my mother Catherine was pediatric nurse at KGH. As a child I visited KGH which inspired me to become a doctor. I used to spend my free time at supermarket and observed my father interact with customers. I noticed happiness on my father’s face especially when communicating with Indians and ends up talking in Indian language.

  Just then, I heard a voice calling me ‘Dad’ from the lawn. It was my 19 years old daughter Jasmine. Though she is old enough to move with friends to parties, movies etc, she prefers spend time with us.

  Jasmine: Dad, why don’t you come and join, let’s play Football.

  Richard: Why don’t you invite your friends from neighborhood and play football.

  Jasmine: I think I should meet you at KGH, and then you can’t say NO! You have time only for your patients.

  Richard: OK Chill out. Hold on, I’m coming.

  “My wife Michelle who is also a doctor by profession works at the KGH.” As usual, she is preparing Sunday Brunch. I held her slowly from back and kissed her on the cheek.”

  Richard: Slowly in her ears, “Sweetheart I’m Hungry (pun intended).”

  Michelle: I am aware of your requirements Mr. Richard and working towards it.

  I will not disappoint you.

  “We exchanged kisses. She smiled at me and exchanged romantic glances, but her hands were busy chopping vegetables — women are good at multi-tasking!.”

  I moved back to the drawing room, BBC channel was telecasting a documentary titled “India’s daughter.” “Anything about India always excited me as I had some unforgettable experiences.

  I watched the entire documentary and was shocked at the state of events that took place, “security of women in India.” This documentary has disturbed me and has quickly run through a nostalgic memory lane.

  I switched off the television and silently went to my bedroom. I wanted to pick up a book and read that could calm me down. Finally, I picked up the self written diary for the year 1996 and started reading ………

  Chapter 1

  King George Hospital popularly known as KGH is located in Central London. The pediatric department especially the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) is famous for its child care and has witnessed several successful operations. It has the state of the art infrastructure.

  My love Dr. Michelle works here. Though we both work in the same hospital, we hardly get enough time to meet each other.

  I have set several hearts function properly for my patients as a Cardiologist, But I fear sometimes that my heart might skip a beat if I don’t get to see Michelle even for a single day.

  I still remember that day when I tried calling Michelle several times and tried to meet her personally, but failed to reach her.

  I told myself with every heartbeat, my desire to talk to her increased multi fold. I checked at the front-office.

  Sir, how may I help you? said Receptionist.

  Richard: “I need to talk to Dr. Michelle, but unfortunately she is not reachable on phone.” Could you please connect me to someone from the NICU department?

  Receptionist connected to the NICU department and was speaking to someone. She held the phone line for a while and informed me that Michelle already left the hospital.

  I took the phone from receptionist and started speaking. The person on the other line was a known person who gave me more information. I learnt that Michelle was completely preoccupied that day with high inflow of patients. She was busy handling the medical procedures for a patient with 32 weeks of gestation was admitted due to medical complications.

  I sought permission from the hospital management in the last minute just before lunch time and informed them to arrange for an alternative to take care of inpatients. I have medical emergency at my residence to attend. Dr. Williams, the HOD of Cardiology asked me:

  “The hospital needs you. Is it an emergency? Do you need any kind assistance from hospital?”

  I said “Sir this is indeed a kind of emergency and I’m anticipating a Cardiac arrest if it is not timely attended. May be the hospital amb
ulance can come handy to reach the destination soon.”

  I reached Michelle’s apartment. I tried calling Michelle on her phone, but still no response.

  I picked up the Microphone available in the ambulance and said “Michelle Wakeup.”

  “I’m dying to see you my love.” I just looked sideways, ambulance staff was amazed and I pleaded them through gestures indicating it’s a heart problem.

  Finally, Michelle appeared in the Balcony. She could not believe her eyes, It was pleasant shock for her.

  “Attention beautiful lady, a doctor by name Richard is deeply & madly in love with you. It’s been a day, he met you. It’s an emergency & we are anticipating a cardiac arrest if enough love is not provided on time.” I held my breath for a while and was looking into her eyes. I bent down and arms wide open…Michelle I love you. This was loud enough to echo the surroundings for some time.

  Michelle had tears in the eyes. She came running towards me and we hug each other.

  I thanked the ambulance staff for assistance and understanding. They smiled and left the place.

  That day we spent a lot of time, had lunch followed by love appetizers (pun intended).

  Chapter 2

  Next day at KGH, I met Michelle at hospital cafeteria.

  Richard: So how is it going at NICU?

  Michelle: Yeah, things are pretty fine. But yesterday it was hectic.

  One of my patients who are 32nd week of pregnancy was admitted due to Oligohydraminos.

  Richard: “Oligohydraminos” – Is it some kind of abnormality developed during pregnancy?

  Michelle: Hmm yes it is. It’s a condition that can develop during pregnancy when the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus is not enough. On an average, four percent of women who undergo pregnancy cycle are diagnosed for Oligohydraminos.

  Richard: So what next?

  Michelle: We closely monitor the amniotic fluid level. Also adopt ‘Amniofusion’ in certain cases, in which we instill a special fluid into the amniotic sac to replace lost or low levels of amniotic fluid.

  By the way I forgot to mention, this patient is from southern part of India. The patient was terrified as it was their first child. I had a tough time retaining the confidence of the couple in the medical system available at KGH.

  Richard: Cool…gave a pause for few seconds. When r we going to have kids…?

  Michelle gave me a romantic smile…continued smiling.

  Michelle: Well there is a long way to go! KGH NICU needs my services now. I am committed to my profession and feel highly responsible in discharging my duties as it is critical.

  Richard: Give me a kiss…I’m hungry!

  #Just then pediatric nurse Kate who visited Cafeteria informed Michelle that there is an requirement in NICU. She stops having lunch and gets up.

  Michelle: Bye sweetheart (in a husky voice)! It’s urgent. I gotta to go…

  Richard: No problem, carry on. We will meet sometime.

  Chapter 3

  At Michelle’s home:

  It was an off for Michelle and as usual she was having deep sleep in her bed.

  I rang the bell, knocked the door & called her on mobile, took quite some time to wake her.

  Michelle: Hmm..Hi (with a sleepy face), get in.

  Richard: I hugged her and gently kissed on her cheek.

  Michelle: I am tired…I need some sleep!

  #I prepared sandwiches and coffee. Michelle washed her face and sipped the hot coffee.

  Michelle: It was just another day for me performing premature delivery for patient of Indian origin. Her name is Sarita. This is her first delivery.

  Richard: Oh I see, was it very complicated that made you tired?

  Michelle: Not at all. Taking the patient into confidence is a big challenge on which we are not trained and giving assurance that everything gonna be fine. It’s a female baby, 32 weeks of gestation.

  She was wrapped in a green towel and resembled a jasmine flower. Though I have performed several operations, I feel this child is special. I understand the emotions of the Indian couple as parents, but not their language.

  Richard: Which part of India do they belong to?

  Michelle: They belong to southern part of India as per my previous conversation & I believe they speak… (Pause for a while)..Yeah it is Tamil.

  Richard: Well, then I am the right person who can help you out.

  Michelle: So you know Tamil?

  Richard: I do understand Tamil to an extent, But I have hard time speaking Tamil as I find those words toungue twisting. I have lot of friends in medical community who belong to southern part of India and speak Tamil. I have learnt Tamil in bits & pieces.

  Michelle: Say something for me in Tamil.

  Richard: “Hi Pondati. Naan Unnai Kadhalikiren” which mean Hi Wifey! I love you.

  Michelle: Cool..Not bad.

  Richard: Well, This is a standard oral imposition which my Indian friend mimics on phone at least 6 times a day to keep his wife happy…hahaha.

  Michelle: Tomorrow you must visit NICU and see this cute little baby.

  Richard: Definitely sweetheart. I have two babies to watch out. One is in the cradle and the other one in my heart.

  Chapter 4

  Next day at the hospital, myself and Michelle visited the NICU. It was a routine checkup by Michelle and I was just observing. Love and utmost care was all that needed for these premature infants taking rest in the incubators.

  The parents of Jasmine along with Family friend Bhoj visited the NICU.

  Michelle: There she is the beautiful child ‘Jasmine.’

  Michelle welcomed the parents; your kid is doing really good.

  She introduced me to the parents.

  #Mr. Bhoj alias Bhojanathan was pursuing MS (Master’s degree) in Gynecology at KGH

  Richard: No doubt your kid is very beautiful; But any reason why she was named ‘Jasmine.’

  #Michelle was amazed at this question of mine and looked at me.

  Vishu: We are from a place called ‘Madurai’, Tamilnadu in India. ‘Jasmine’ flowers from our place are famous for their fragrance all over and used for auspicious purposes. Though we are miles away from our hometown, we have a emotional connect through this beautiful child of ours. So I felt ‘Jasmine’ would be a right name for my kid.

  Richard: Awesome! Romba nalla irukku (Really very good)

  Vishu: So u speak Tamil.

  Richard: Yeah…but in bits n pieces. You have to bare with my Tamil. By the way, Since Mr. Bhoj is also on the same campus, he can help me learn the language.

  #We all smiled. Michelle spoke to Jasmine’s mother and gave her reassurance that everything is fine.

  Chapter 5

  By Each passing day, the love bond between Michelle and myself was getting stronger. It demanded time for each other and personal space.

  Sometimes the preoccupied nature of our profession raised certain questions inside me.

  Are we really serious about our love? Am I the one who is chasing Michelle to feel the love? Is it some kind of infatuation that we have termed it as “Love.”

  There was not a single instance so far that confirmed that Michelle truly loved me. It might sound foolishness on my part., But I wanted to check how far Michelle can travel to prove her love for me. I called Michelle that fine day.

  Richard: Hi Michelle.

  Michelle: Richard….

  Richard: Yeah, it’s me. I want to say something. I had been waiting for a long time.

  Michelle: What is it? Tell me, I am getting late for the hospital.

  Richard: I will say that it in Person. I want to talk to you. I am waiting for you at the Victoria Park.

  Michelle: What is it tell me? You know how busy I am. You did not even inform me yesterday that you wanted to meet me.

  Richard: It’s upto you to decide how important I am for you?

  ------------------- Hung up the Phone -------------------

  It was tough to while away the time. My eyes
were continuously searching for Michelle. Any beautiful girl who passes by would seem like Michelle.

  I played football, slept for while, smoked some cigarettes, jogged ,did all the crazy things.

  At the hospital:

  Michelle met Sarita who was accompanied by her family Friend Dr. Bhoj. They enquired about the conditions of the baby. The baby was breastfeed as suggested by Michelle. Sarita wrapped the baby with cotton cloth to provide warmth. Michelle visited other babies and did a routine checkup.

  She came back home, got into pyjamas and was watching television. She completely forgot that I was waiting for her at the park. The news telecasted showed the weather report which indicated there was rainfall in certain parts of the city. It showed videos of Victoria park and other places.

  The Victoria park scene reminded her that I was waiting at the park. It was around 8pm, the park was closed. There was a bus stand outside the park. Most of the visitors to the park left by the day. I waited for few minutes in the Bus Stop with ray of hope. Just then, I saw Michelle wearing a rain coat and holding a umbrella in her hand.

  Michelle: What is this? Are you crazy?

  (It was just me and Michelle in the bus stop. I just turned away my head showing as if I was not interested, But internally I was happy that finally she came to meet me).

  Michelle: I am sorry. Richard will you please get up? Let’s move.

  I looked at her and got up from my Place.

  Richard: You know michelle right from the time I called you, I have been all the day in the Park just waiting for you. Finally, you managed to take some time to meet me out of your busy schedule. This is what I am worried about. I am the last item on your priority list!

  Michelle: You think I have done this intentionally. If a layman or person from any other profession said these words, I would have accepted it considering their ignorance, but not from you.

  We are in the same profession and you have been with me in the hospital watching me from close quarters. It’s just that I lost myself in attending the daily chores and completely forgot about meeting you.