THE STETHOSCOPE IS NOT JUST AN INSTRUMENT; IT IS A PIECE OF JEWELRY.

~PREETA ARORA

"Good morning. This is Ashraya Hospital, Mumbai. How may I help you?" The crisp voice of the receptionist spoke, "Dr Arora'a appointments are full at the minute."

"Good morning Reena," A lady who walked into the hospital greeted the receptionist.

"Good morning Dr Arora. Your appointments are full. Dr Arvind Sinha wanted to meet you," Reena replied.

"Reena, he is my mentor. Allow him to come anytime," Dr Arora replied.

"Sure, Dr Arora," Reena smiled.

"Reena, call me Preeta," The young doctor smiled as she walked towards her cabin. She put her white doctor's coat over her baby-pink dress. 

She entered her cabin and saw that her first patient was already waiting. It was a small girl who was recovering from her fracture.

"Good Morning Siya," Preeta greeted the small girl sitting there.

"Good Morning, Pree di," the child smiled back.

"Let's see your fracture shall we?" Preeta asked the little child, who looked scared as soon as the bandage was touched.

"It hurts," the child pouted.

"Is she doing the exercises three times a day?" Preeta asked the girl's parents.

"She does them diligently. Her father has promised her a pink cycle once her leg gets better," the mother replied.

"Ah, so you want that pink cycle?" Preeta asked.

Siya nodded her head frantically. Preeta chuckled at the cuteness of the child in front of her. Siya was so innocent. Kids would do anything if parents promised them to buy a goodie the child liked.

Preeta checked up on the fracture. After removing the plaster, she wrapped Siya's foot in a crepe bandage and turned to the child's parents.

"The fracture is mostly healed. I have changed the bandage to a crepe one as the thick bandage put too much strain on her developing bone. The bone is set. We need to increase its strength. I will give you the names of some pain relievers if her foot starts paining again. Please get her back for a follow-up appointment after two weeks," Preeta said and wrote down the names of the medicines.

The parents thanked Preeta and left the room. The whole day was filled with patients. After bidding goodbye to the last patient, Preeta sank into her chair.

"Exhausted with all the healing that you've done today?" A voice broke the silence in Preeta's cabin.

"Sinha, sir! It's been a long time since we last met. I heard you wanted to convey something important?" Preeta asked her teacher, gesturing for the older man to take a seat.

"I'm retiring from Medical practice. Please take over my place in the Cricket league. They need a well-qualified physiotherapist for the players. They asked me for a recommendation. Only you came up to be as experienced," her mentor spoke.

Preeta's eyes widened in surprise as she absorbed the news. Becoming the physiotherapist for the Cricket league was a prestigious opportunity, one that she had never anticipated. Her mind raced with a mix of excitement and trepidation, realizing the responsibility that would come with the role.

"Sir, I'm honoured that you think of me for such a significant position," Preeta responded, her voice filled with gratitude. "But are you sure? I mean, I don't have direct experience with professional athletes. It's a whole different ball game."

Dr Sinha chuckled warmly, his eyes twinkling with pride. "Preeta, my dear, I have witnessed your dedication and skills firsthand. Your expertise in rehabilitation and healing is exceptional. Trust me, you are more than capable of handling this opportunity. The players will benefit greatly from your care and expertise."

Preeta took a moment to absorb her mentor's words, a mixture of excitement and nervousness swirling within her. The chance to work closely with athletes, helping them recover and perform at their best, was a dream come true. She had always been passionate about sports and dedicated herself to learning the intricacies of physiotherapy.

"Thank you, Sir," Preeta replied, her voice filled with determination. "I accept this opportunity wholeheartedly. I'll give it my all and ensure that the players receive the best care and support."

Dr Sinha beamed with pride, pleased with Preeta's response. "I knew you would rise to the challenge, Preeta. You have the skills, compassion, and dedication to excel in this role. I will inform the Cricket league about your acceptance and recommend you officially. Get ready for an exciting new chapter in your career!"

As Preeta absorbed the weight of her new responsibility, she felt a surge of enthusiasm and motivation. She understood the challenges that lay ahead, but she was eager to prove herself and make a positive impact in the world of sports medicine.

Over the next few weeks, Preeta immersed herself in preparation, researching sports injuries, studying the specific needs of cricket players, and familiarizing herself with the team's medical history. She worked closely with her mentor, seeking guidance and advice to ensure a smooth transition.

When the day finally arrived for Preeta to take on her new role as the team's physiotherapist, she stood tall, ready to face the challenges that awaited her. 

She walked into the location where she was greeted by her mentor who led them to meet the team.

As Dr. Sinha introduced Preeta to the cricket team as his replacement, she stepped forward with a confident smile on her face. She took a moment to observe the players, noticing their varying expressions—some curious, some indifferent, and others seemingly uninterested. However, her attention was soon drawn to one individual who exuded an air of overconfidence—the team's captain, Karan Luthra.

Karan stood at the centre of the room, his tall and athletic frame commanding attention. His piercing gaze met Preeta's, and she could sense a hint of scepticism in his eyes. Undeterred, she approached him with a determined stride, extending her hand in greeting.

"Hello, Mr Luthra," Preeta said, maintaining a professional tone. "I'm Dr Preeta Arora, your new physiotherapist. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Karan glanced at her outstretched hand before reluctantly accepting the handshake, offering a brief nod in acknowledgement. "Pleasure," he responded curtly, his tone lacking warmth.

Preeta sensed Karan's initial reluctance and understood that she needed to earn his trust and respect. She decided to take a diplomatic approach, aware that her competence and dedication would eventually speak for themselves.

"I've heard great things about your leadership and your contributions to the team, Captain Luthra," Preeta began, attempting to establish a rapport. "I'm really excited to work with all of you and help you achieve peak performance on the field."

Karan raised an eyebrow, his overconfidence was evident in his response. "Well, we've managed just fine so far without a female physiotherapist," he said, his words laced with an undercurrent of scepticism.

Preeta remained composed, refusing to let Karan's remark affect her. She knew it was essential to address his concerns professionally and earn his trust through her actions.

"I understand your scepticism, Captain Luthra," Preeta replied calmly. "But I want you to know that I'm fully committed to the well-being of this team. My gender should not be a factor in evaluating my capabilities. I'm here to provide you with the best care possible and support you in achieving your goals."

Karan's expression softened slightly, sensing Preeta's confidence and determination. He couldn't deny her passion and dedication, which resonated with his own ambitions for the team's success.

"Very well," Karan said, his tone less dismissive. "But let's see if you can keep up with the rigorous demands of professional cricket."

Preeta smiled, appreciating the challenge in Karan's statement. "I'm ready to prove myself, Captain. I've spent weeks studying the specific needs of cricket players and researching sports injuries. My goal is to provide you and the entire team with the best possible care and contribute to your success."

 So be it. I'm going to prove that Preeta Arora is no joke!

WORD COUNT: 1326 Words

Preeta has been introduced.

What will happen next?