Oct 24-26, 2021.
Berlin, Germany.
World Health Summit.
The air was electric with anticipation as the World Health Summit unfolded in the sprawling Tiergarten park. A lush green expanse that had seen more than its fair share of history. Under the canopy of trees a medley of voices mingled. VIPs, scientists, and law enforcement officers engaged in animated discussions about the future of global health. The gathering was a melting pot of intellect featuring policy makers and eminent experts from Australia, Canada, the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, Russia, India, Hungary, and Sri Lanka. Among them stood Romesh. His brow furrowed with concentration as he engaged in a deep conversation with Asmee. They were discussing a breakthrough that could change the landscape of diabetes treatment forever. "Can you believe it?" Romesh said. His eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "This medicine, derived from that unique plant named "Costus Igneous" in Karnataka's Mangalore, could eliminate the need for insulin and Sitagliptin altogether. It's revolutionary." Asmee nodded. Her expression a mixture of admiration and concern. "It's incredible, Romesh. But do you think the clinical trials will hold up under scrutiny? There's always that fear of the unknown." Romesh chuckled lightly brushing aside her concerns. "We've done our due diligence. Just yesterday my team shared some startling new data. Insulin is a growth hormone and high levels can accelerate cancer cell growth. This medicine could not only help diabetics but also prevent cancerous cell development." Asmee leaned closer. She was intrigued. "You've come so far. I remember when you were hesitant to present your findings. It's like you've transformed overnight."
"Blessed be my tongue indeed," Romesh replied, a hint of pride creeping into his voice. "I used to doubt myself but now I see the potential impact of this work. The first Indian treated with insulin was a 35-year-old man in a diabetic coma back in Calcutta. It's astonishing how far we've come since then." "In 1929, a 12 years old girl named Kumudini who was admitted to the Carmichael Hospital in Calcutta received insulin". As they spoke the applause from the audience grew louder echoing through the park. Romesh's lecture had captivated everyone. "Imagine," he continued. His voice steady and confident, "in October 2023, ICMR and AYUSH will collaborate on health research using modern scientific methods to create high-impact studies. It's going to be a dream come true for our country." But not everyone shared in Romesh's triumph. Across the crowd Tushant stood rigid. His expression dark and brooding. He watched Romesh with a simmering resentment. His mind racing with envy. Each cheer for Romesh felt like a dagger to his pride. Why did everyone idolize him? What was so special about Romesh and Asmee's platonic friendship that left him feeling so isolated? "Look at him, basking in glory," Tushant muttered under his breath glaring at Romesh. "He thinks he's the only one who can make a difference." His thoughts turned bitter as he approached Asmee who was still lost in admiration for Romesh. "You know," Tushant said forcing a smile that didn't reach his eyes, "I can't help but notice how you seem to support him at every turn. What about Kanishk and Kashvi? Their love affair has spiralled out of control and yet you haven't even discussed it with me." Asmee's gaze flickered to Tushant. Her expression shifting slightly. "I'm sorry, Tushant. I just… I have a lot on my mind right now. Kanishk deserves recognition for his hard work. I was thinking of inviting him over for Diwali."
Tushant's jaw tightened. "So you're just going to ignore everything else? You never consider my feelings in this, do you?" "I'm not ignoring anything," Asmee retorted. Her voice firm. "I just think it's important to celebrate achievements. You should understand that." With a huff Tushant turned away feeling the familiar sting of isolation. As he walked further from the gathering he couldn't shake the feeling that he was being overshadowed. The resentment simmered within him threatening to boil over. Meanwhile Asmee pulled out her phone. Her fingers trembling slightly as she dialled Kanishk's number. She needed to acknowledge his academic excellence to show him that someone believed in him. As the call connected she took a deep breath. "Hey, Kanishk," she said. Her voice brightening. "I wanted to invite you over for Diwali. You've worked so hard and I think you deserve a little celebration.". "Wow, Ma'am ! Really?" Kanishk's voice crackled with surprise and joy. "That sounds amazing! Thank you!" As she hung up a small smile crept onto her face. But in the shadows Tushant gritted his teeth. His mind racing with dark thoughts. He couldn't let Romesh or anyone steal what he had worked so hard for. The seeds of jealousy were taking root and he knew that if he didn't act soon he would lose everything he held dear. In that moment as laughter and applause echoed around him Tushant made a silent vow. He would not remain in Romesh's shadow any longer. The world would soon see him for who he truly was and he would stop at nothing to ensure that jealousy did not go unpunished. Tushant couldn't overcome his seething covetousness for Romesh. He couldn't quench his flaming bitterness for Romesh and his true dedication towards his job. He never had tried to understand Romesh and Asmee's platonic relation. He had always been sceptical about Romesh and Asmee's relationship.