Prashanth felt the warmth in her hand as she covered his. He knew she did that genuinely. Her instinct as a doctor to comfort those who are hurting now was clearly evident in her action. He was glad that he chose the person with such a kind heart and warmth for his hospital. He, however, wished her hand was on his for longer. He knew she must have felt embarrassed by her action. He didn’t say anything further but drove on at a steady pace back to his hometown.

“You have come at a perfect time, Dr. Mittur,” declared Prashanth, trying to make a small talk. He disliked the silence.

She turned to him. “This place is indeed very beautiful, Mr. Kumar. Is it a festival time or any special occasion?” she inquired.

“I meant the climate. Winter is almost over and spring is right around the corner. You will see some foggy mornings but there is nice warmth later. In two months’, it will be very hot. All you want to do is laze around in the cool of the house during summer,” complained Prashanth, secretly longing for lazy afternoons spent napping, playing board games with kids, and eating mangoes and watermelons. Even the kids longed for those days. His sister and her two kids have been spending their entire summer vacation with them for the past four years now.

“Summers are very lazy and mostly quiet in these parts, Dr. Mittur,” declared Prashanth.

Vandana nodded and smiled, wondering what he meant by that. Hospitals are always busy. There are always sick people to be treated and babies to be delivered. ‘How can that be quiet?’ She wondered.

“Tell me about the hospital, Mr. Kumar. I am so anxious to see the place. Will I get a grand tour of the place today? That is, if you don’t have any pressing matters,” she asked like a curious kid.

Smiling, “Of course, Dr. Mittur. If you are up for it after a long tiresome journey, I shall give you a grand tour of my new project,” Prashanth offered.

“Great! How about a quick shower, some breakfast and we can be on our way,” chimed Vandana, rubbing her palms gleefully.

After twenty minutes, they arrived at his sprawling bungalow. The gates usually remained open during the day. They drove through and around a circular drive way. He stopped the car in front of the main entrance.

“Welcome to Ashraya Nilayam, Dr. Mittur,” bowed Prashanth, opening her door in subservience.

“What a beautiful place you have, Mr. Kumar,” announced Vandana, wide-eyed and looking about the ancient, palatial house as she stepped out of the jeep.

“Sunil,” he hollered. “Sunil will bring your bags to your room, Dr. Mittur. Please follow me.” He led her up the steps to the door.

Sunil appeared at the door.

“Sunil, please bring the suitcase and the bags to the guest room on the farther side of the house. Don’t try to bring them all at once or you will hurt your back like last time. Either take someone’s help or make two trips,” instructed Prashanth.

“Yes, anna (older brother),” said Sunil, hurrying towards the jeep.

“Dr. Mittur, please come in this way,” welcomed Prashanth, leading her into the large living room. “This home has been in our family for three generations, Dr. Mittur. My great grandfather purchased the property, my grandfather built the original house and my father made some additions.”