residence

Dr. Ravi led Raj through the camp, introducing him to various members of the medical team. As they approached a group of doctors, Raj noticed a familiar face and couldn't help but call out, "Karthikeya!"

Karthikeya, who was deep in conversation, looked up, surprise flashing across his features. "Fancy seeing you here, Mr. Raj," he said, walking over. "What brings you to Subrahmanyapuram?"

Raj explained his situation. "My car had a puncture, and both my main and spare tires are flat. The village head, Raju, suggested I stay with the medical team for the night."

Karthikeya raised an eyebrow at the unexpected turn of events. ". You're welcome to stay with us."

At this, Dr. Ravi started chuckling. "Actually, Karthikeya is the one leading the camp here," he said, introducing Karthikeya with a flourish.

Raj and the mechanic burst into laughter. Raj, still grinning, asked Karthikeya jokingly, "So, Dr. Karthikeya, would you let a stranded traveler stay with your esteemed team?"

Karthikeya, now the butt of the joke, joined in the laughter. "Yes, you can stay, Mr. Raj," he said, shaking his head in amusement. "We have plenty of space."

raj : just call me raj 

The mechanic, seeing Raj was in good hands, excused himself. "I'll leave you to it, Raj. If you need anything else, just let us know."

Raj thanked him and turned back to Karthikeya. "This really is a small world. How long have you been running this camp?"

"Just a week," Karthikeya replied. "We're here to provide basic medical care and health education. It's have been quite an experience."

Dr. Ravi added, "It's not often we get to do such impactful work in a setting like this. It's a nice change from the hospital routine."

Raj felt a sense of relief and gratitude. "Thank you for letting me stay. I promise not to get in the way."

Karthikeya smiled. "You're not in the way at all. In fact, it's nice to have a familiar face around. Come, let's get you settled in."

They walked to a nearby tent, where Karthikeya showed Raj his temporary quarters. "It's not much, but it's comfortable," Karthikeya said. "We're just about to have breakfast. You're welcome to join us."

The next morning, Raj joined Karthikeya for breakfast. As they finished their meal, Raj turned to Karthikeya with a request. "Is there any miscellaneous work I can help with today? I don't want to just sit around doing nothing."

Karthikeya began to shake his head. "Raj, I appreciate the offer, but how could I let someone of your stature do handy work around here?"

Raj smiled, waving off the concern. "Don't sweat the details, Karthikeya. I'd like to help in any way I can. It keeps my mind busy and it's a good way to pass the time."

Seeing Raj's sincerity, Karthikeya finally relented. "Alright, if you're sure. You can help at the reception area. Dr. Ravi will show you what to do."

Dr. Ravi, standing nearby, nodded. "Come with me, Raj. I'll introduce you to Dr. Srivalli, who manages the reception. She can use an extra pair of hands."

As they walked to the reception area, Ravi glanced at Karthikeya, a question in his eyes. Karthikeya caught the look and smiled. "I'll explain everything at dinner tonight," he said, reassuringly.

At the reception area, Dr. Ravi introduced Raj to Dr. Srivalli, a young, energetic doctor managing patient intake and inquiries. "Dr. Srivalli, this is Raj. He'll be helping you out today."

Dr. Srivalli greeted Raj warmly. "Nice to meet you, Raj. There's plenty to do, so I'm glad to have your help."

Raj spent the day assisting with various tasks—organizing patient records, helping villagers fill out forms, and ensuring the smooth flow of people through the camp. He found the work surprisingly satisfying and enjoyed interacting with the villagers, who were grateful for the care they were receiving.

As the day wore on, Raj and Dr. Srivalli developed an easy rapport. She was impressed by how quickly he picked up on things and how comfortable he was in this environment.

Raj sat at the reception desk, working alongside Dr. Srivalli, Karthikeya's girlfriend. The day had been busy, with villagers coming in for consultations and treatments. As Raj organized patient records and assisted with intake forms, his mind wandered.

He found himself reflecting on the strange turn of events that had brought him here. It felt almost surreal, like he had stepped into the plot of a movie. In his previous life, Raj had been a spectator, watching Karthikeya's story unfold from a distance. Now, he was unwittingly playing a part in it.

Dr. Srivalli noticed his contemplative expression and smiled. "Penny for your thoughts, Raj?"

Raj chuckled, shaking his head. "It's just strange, you know? How life takes unexpected turns. I never imagined I'd end up here, working in a medical camp in a small village."

Srivalli nodded, understanding. "Life has a funny way of surprising us. But I'm glad you're here. You've been a great help."

Raj appreciated her kind words. "Thanks, Srivalli. It's been a good experience for me too. In fact, I've been thinking about staying here for a while longer. I want to help here , it is like a new experience."

Srivalli's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? That's wonderful, Raj. Karthikeya will be thrilled to have you around. He's been under a lot of pressure, and having a reliable friend by his side will mean a lot to him."

Raj nodded. "I've made up my mind. There's a lot going on back in Hyderabad, but right now, I feel like this is where I need to be. Helping out here, supporting Karthikeya, it just feels right."

Srivalli smiled warmly. "I'm glad to hear that. And don't worry, you'll find that everyone here will appreciate your presence and help."

As they continued their work, Raj felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was no longer just trying to escape his troubles; he was actively choosing to contribute to something meaningful. This camp, these people—they needed help, and he could provide that.

Later that evening, as the was camp settling down and the villagers were returning to their homes, Raj found Karthikeya and pulled him aside. "Hey, Karthikeya, I've been thinking..."

Karthikeya looked curious. "What's on your mind, Raj?"

"I've decided to stay here for a while longer. I want to help you with the camp and anything else you need. We're in this together."

Karthikeya's face lit up with gratitude. "Raj, that's fantastic news! I can't tell you how much that means to me. Thank you."

Raj smiled, feeling a deep sense of camaraderie. "It's the least I can do. ."