Sandeep couldn’t sleep that night. The day’s events replayed in his mind over and over, each thought burdened with guilt. What had he done? How had he allowed himself to cross that line with Priya? His assistant, a junior doctor. He let his personal urges to take control. How he had lost control, driven by desire. As for Priya, she was equally unsettled by what had happened, though not in the same way. She felt a rush of excitement from the intimacy, the memory of Sandeep kissing her navel. It wasn’t what she had expected, but she couldn’t deny the attraction she’d long held for him. The moment had stirred feelings she hadn’t anticipated, and now, she was left wondering how to deal with them.

The clinic buzzed with it’s usual activity the next day. Sandeep and Priya both avoided eye contact. Their glances brushed each other, but neither dared to hold the gaze for too long. There was an undeniable awkwardness between them, one they couldn’t ignore.

It was just before lunch when Priya knocked on the door of Sandeep’s cabin. She stepped inside to inform him of an update about the patients records. “I’ve mailed an update to the patient’s medical records you provided, Doctor,” she said, her voice steady, though her eyes avoided his. “Okay, I’ll look into it,” Sandeep replied, his voice neutral. But as Priya turned to leave, he suddenly stood up, an impulse sparking within him. “Wait,” he called, catching her before she could slip away. She paused mid-step, turning to face him, her expression a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.

Sandeep swallowed hard, gathering the courage to speak. “Priya… about what happened yesterday,” he began, “I want to apologise”. Priya felt her heart race and she interrupted him. “Dr. Sandeep, I think it’s better if we just move on. It was—”.

“No, please,” he interrupted, the desperation evident. “I just… I need to say something. I shouldn’t have let it happen. I overstepped. You’re my assistant, and I acted on my personal desires without considering how it might affect you.”

He glanced away, his guilt hanging thick in the air. “I’m so sorry, Priya. I never meant to make you uncomfortable. It was wrong of me.”

Priya felt the weight of his words. “It was just an accident, Doctor. We can… we can forget about it.”

“No, it wasn’t just an accident. I can’t just forget it,” he insisted. “I’ve been thinking about it all night. I feel terrible. I took advantage of your trust, and I’m really sorry”

Priya’s heart sank at the way he seemed to shoulder all the blame. It was true that she had allowed it to happen, and while she didn’t regret it, seeing Sandeep so weighed down made her feel uncomfortable.

“Dr. Sandeep,” she began softly, but he was already lost in his thoughts. Seeing his distress, Priya felt a surge of affection mixed with guilt. She didn’t want him to feel this way. “Doctor,” she said, trying to interject. “It wasn’t just you”

He looked at her, his eyes searching for clarity, but she hesitated. How could she tell him she liked him without complicating everything further? Instead, she saw the tension in his shoulders, the way he seemed to sink further into himself with every word he spoke.

“Please don’t apologize anymore,” she said gently. “It makes me feel… guilty for making you feel this way. I was just as much a part of that moment as you were. It happened because I let it happen”

Sandeep shook his head, still feeling uneasy. “But it felt like I crossed a line. I just—” He stopped, hesitating, then took a breath. “When your body brushed against me while unhooking that belt, I couldn’t help it. I got lost in the moment and kissed your…” his voice trailed off.

Priya noticed his hesitation and smiled softly, a playful glint in her eyes. “Navel” she finished for him, her tone light yet teasing.

He blinked, caught off guard by how easily she said it. Hearing the word “navel” from Priya sent a strange yet undeniable sensation through him. His heart raced, and she could see it, evident in the slight sparkle in his eyes.

“I didn’t mind it, Sandeep. Not at all,” she admitted “In fact, it felt… kind of nice”

“Nice?” he echoed, trying to gauge her seriousness. Sandeep’s breath quickened at her admission, a mixture of relief and excitement running through him. Priya couldn’t help but smile wider. Her behaviour was too much of a relief for Sandeep in that moment, easing the tension.

She reached out and took his hand, guiding it gently to rest on the side of her waist, just over the soft fabric of her churidar. The warmth of her skin seeped through, sending a thrill through him. “It wasn’t one-sided, Doctor. You didn’t force anything,” she said, her voice gentle but firm, “I let it happen because I wanted it to happen. I was just as much a lost in that moment as you were.” she said, “It wasn’t just you. I’m part of this too. And it’s not something that I regret”.

Sandeep was taken aback, feeling her hand linger on his as it rested on her curves. “I just didn’t want to make you feel like I was… using you,” he muttered.

Priya, now unable to hold back any longer, looked up at him, her expression full of affection. “Ohh my dear Doctor,” she said softly, “I’ve always admired you, you aren’t just a senior doctor to me, but more than that. What happened yesterday wasn’t wrong for me. I felt it too.”

“You… did?”

Priya nodded. “I’m not upset about what happened. It made me realize how much I’ve been drawn to you.” Sandeep swallowed hard, his throat dry. “I… I was,” he admitted, feeling an unexpected thrill at her teasing. “I couldn’t help it. It was like everything else faded away.”

“I could tell,” she teased gently. “It was like you forgot everything else. Just… you and my navel.” He blushed lightly. A deep sense of relief washed over him because of Priya’s attitude towards him.

“Yeah, I… I can’t explain how it happened, I just got lost in the moment. it felt so right even if it was wrong”

“Maybe we were both a little lost,” Priya replied, “But I didn’t mind being lost in that moment with you. I just thought it was a little unconventional, hehe” her tone a bit teasing yet sincere.

He couldn’t help but chuckle, the tension began to melt away. Sandeep nodded, his heartbeat steadying as their conversation flowed. “Unconventional doesn’t have to be bad. Sometimes, it can be… enlightening.”

“Exactly,” she agreed. “And I think we both learned something about each other.”

“Like how I should probably keep my hands to myself?” he joked, but there was an underlying truth in his words.

“Or how we shouldn’t shy away from exploring our feelings,” Priya countered, her voice playful with a hint of mischief. As their conversation continued, Sandeep felt a sense of comfort. He could feel the remnants of their connection still in the air, and for the first time since the incident, he felt lighter.

“I should get back to the reception,” Priya finally said, letting go of his hand. “We’ve got a busy day ahead.”

“Yeah, of course,” Sandeep replied.

As the door closed behind her, Sandeep exhaled a deep relief. The guilt that had consumed him was fading, and the shadows of his past relationship was slowly lifting. Sandeep realized he was beginning to move on, but this time with a newfound connection—one that offered hope and warmth for what lay ahead.

The rest of the day in the clinic went by as usual. Sandeep felt a noticeable relief, like a heavy weight had been lifted off his shoulders after the conversation with Priya. The tension that had haunted him all night was gone, replaced by a strange sense of comfort and connection that went beyond their roles as doctor and assistant.

As the day came to an end, Sandeep found himself looking around for Priya. He wanted to see her again, even if just to exchange a few words or share a brief glance. There was something new between them now, something special that he hadn’t expected to feel. But as he checked around the clinic, Priya was nowhere to be found.

Curious, he approached the receptionist. “Did Priya leave already?” he asked.

The receptionist nodded. “Yes, Doctor. She had to leave early because of an emergency. She tried to inform you, but you were busy with patients, so she couldn’t.”

He had hoped to see her before leaving. Now, it felt like a moment had slipped away. As he made his way home, Sandeep settled down after a long day. With some quiet time to himself, he relaxed.

Just then, his phone buzzed with a message. It was a whatsapp text from Priya.

“Sorry for not informing you about my early exit. I was in a hurry, Doctor.”

Sandeep couldn’t help but smile at the message. Even in her rush, she had thought to reach out. It was a small gesture, but it meant more to him than he expected

Sandeep: “It’s alright Priya. Is everything okay? Why did you leave early?”

Priya: “Yeah, sorry about that! Had to rush out to pick my mom up from a relative’s place. I wanted to tell you but you were busy with patients.”

(Priya’s reply was instant)

Sandeep: “Ah, I see. No worries. Have you eaten yet?”

Priya: “Not yet, just got back home. You?”

Sandeep: “I’m just settling in after the day.” (then after a pause sandeep texted again) “It felt strange not seeing you before you left, though.”

Priya: “Strange? You missed me that much already?”

Sandeep: “Well… let’s just say I noticed when you weren’t around.”

Priya: “Noted. I’ll make sure not to leave without saying goodbye next time.”

(After a few seconds of silence the dots of her typing appeared again.)

Priya: “I guess I left an impression yesterday, didn’t I?”

(Sandeep could almost feel the teasing in her words. He knew what she was referring to but wasn’t sure if he should steer the conversation that way.)

Sandeep: “You could say that.”

Priya: “Maybe it had something to do with how you… lost yourself yesterday. You seemed very… focused.”

(Sandeep’s pulse quickened. He couldn’t help but play along.)

Sandeep: “Focused,huh?”

Priya: “Not focused. More like… entranced.”

Sandeep: “Entranced hmmm, i suppose that’s one way to put it.” (He paused for a bit and then added) “It’s hard not to be… entranced by certain things that are so perfect.”

Priya: “Certain things, huh? Like what? You seem like you’re hesitating to say it.”

Sandeep: “Well, it’s not every day that someone’s navel has that kind of effect on me.”

(He felt a jolt of excitement after typing it, wondering how she would react)

Priya: “Oh, so it’s my navel that had you spellbound?”

Sandeep: “It’s hard to not get captivated by it, I’ll admit. I think you do know the effect it had on me.”

Priya: “Oh, I’m very aware Doctor, You weren’t exactly subtle about it, I’m sure you’re still thinking about yesterday”

Sandeep: “Can’t deny that… Yesterday was definitely unforgettable.”

Priya: “Unforgettable, huh?”

Sandeep: “Well, to be honest… I haven’t stopped thinking about that moment.”

Priya: “Thinking about my navel, huh? And what exactly have you been thinking about?”

(She was being coy, letting the conversation linger between the lines.)

Sandeep: “About how soft it felt… how perfect it was. I couldn’t help wanting to get closer.”

(He felt a thrill typing that out, imagining her reaction. He wasn’t holding back anymore)

Priya: “Closer, huh? You did seem pretty intent on getting a good look yesterday. Seems like I underestimated the power of my navel”

Sandeep: “It’s more powerful than you know. And trust me, I didn’t want that moment to end.”

Priya: “You know… I didn’t either.”

Sandeep: “So you enjoyed it as much as I did?”

Priya: “Enjoyed it? Hmmm let’s just say I didn’t mind feeling you that close… and I could tell you didn’t mind either, hehe”

Sandeep: “You could definitely say that, Priya. It was hard..umm to pull away.”

(His pulse raced as he waited for her response, wondering how far she’d take the teasing.)

Priya: “Maybe next time you won’t have to.”

Sandeep: “Next time, huh? Are you saying there will be a next time?”

Priya: “Maybe… if you can handle it.”

Sandeep: “I’m pretty sure I can handle anything you throw my way.”

Priya: “Careful, Doctor. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.”

Sandeep: “I’m not making any promises I can’t keep… but I might be hoping for a little more of that magnetism.”

Priya: “Hmm… maybe you’ll just have to wait and find out tomorrow.”

Sandeep: “Ahhh now you’ve got me intrigued.”

Priya: “Good. That’s exactly what I wanted, haha”

Sandeep: “You definitely know how to keep me guessing, Priya.”

Priya: “Maybe I like seeing you a little… Entranced.” (Sandeep’s heart raced as he read her final message, his mind now swirling with anticipation for what tomorrow might bring.) Goodnight doctor!!

The storage facility outside Sandeep’s private cabin was small, with dim lighting. Boxes were stacked neatly, leaving just enough room for them to maneuver. Priya stood there,her white lab coat that flowed gracefully over her black churidar styled with a blue denim jeans. Her curly hair framed her face beautifully, with a few strands playfully falling over her cheek, adding a touch of cuteness. Those eyes of hers were like magnets, drawing Sandeep in and holding his attention.

As he held the belt in his hands, he could feel the tension in the air. Sandeep’s body language spoke volumes—hesitation and awkwardness mixed with nervousness. Priya noticed his hesitation, the subtle quiver in his stance, and it sparked a playful confidence in her. She was ready to take charge.

“Come on, Doctor” she said playfully, leaning in slightly. “Let’s get this done quickly. What are you waiting for?”

Sandeep, still caught off guard, took the belt and unhooked its fitting, stretching it out in front of him. Priya watched intently, a smirk playing on her lips.

“Do I need to pull my churidar up a bit so the belt fits better?” she asked. Sandeep was momentarily speechless, his mind racing. “Uh… what…,” he stammered, unsure how to respond.

With a mischievous grin, Priya brought her hands down to the hem of her churidar, gripping the ends. “You know, during palpation, we usually make the belly clear, right?” She paused, watching Sandeep’s reaction, and added playfully, “Should I help with that?”

His breath quickened, heart pounding. As soon as she confirmed that his gaze was fixed on her hands that was holding the hem of the churidar, with a teasing smile, she slowly began to lift the churidar upwards. She locked eyes with Sandeep, making sure he was watching, and began to lift the fabric upwards slowly. As the material moved higher, it crossed over her blue jeans, perfectly aligning with her waistline. Priya maintained a deliberate, teasing pace, ensuring that Sandeep was entranced by the
unfolding scene. Each inch revealed felt like a jolt of electricity coursing through Sandeep’s body. His eyes followed the slow reveal, the creamy skin of her belly making his heart race. He could hardly breathe. Her churidar reached higher, and now, her navel began to come into view—just a shadow at first. Priya continued her slow teasing, moving her top up ever so slightly. The shadowy outline of her navel became clearer, and now, her full navel was visible—a delicate, T-shaped indentation pressed gently by the soft flesh of her belly. The way her skin folded slightly around the sides of her navel making it appear almost round, made it even more beautiful, almost hypnotic. Priya raised her top a little further, just until the fabric reached just below her bra. Her belly is now completely visible.

Sandeep was completely lost in the moment, entranced by her beauty and the alluring reveal before him. His heart raced as he felt the heat of desire wash over him, every nerve in his body alive with the thrill of the encounter. Priya stood there, enjoying his reaction, knowing she had him exactly where she wanted. It was a game for her, and she was winning.

Sandeep then knelt down in front of Priya, a move that caught her completely off guard. She hadn’t expected him to take this step, and the surprise sparked excitement in her. Her eyes followed his every movement as he got a closer look at her exposed belly. The smoothness of her belly now inches from his face. Her navel — it was perfectly centered, a delicate small depression on her soft belly, like a cherry on a perfectly frosted cake. The creamy, smooth surface of her skin only highlighted the depth of her navel, teasing him, pulling his gaze deeper. He felt mesmerized, lost in the depth and allure of her navel.

With a steady hand, Sandeep stretched the belt out, his fingers trembling slightly as he brought it closer to her abdomen. He carefully placed the belt over her belly, aligning it with the zonal markings. His touch was gentle, deliberate, as he wrapped the belt around her waist. He tightened it, securing the knot from both the front and back, making sure it was snug but not uncomfortable. Now, her belly was fully wrapped in the belt.

Sandeep stood up, his eyes shifting towards the monitor. He switched the instrument on, the soft hum filling the small space. Priya stood still, but after a few moments, she could feel something firm pressing against her abdomen. “Doctor… it’s pressing down a bit here,” she said softly, her voice a mix of curiosity and slight discomfort. Sandeep looked at the screen, where real-time data started appearing. The regional mass readings and appendix data were now visible, and he felt a sense of relief wash over him. The earlier tension that had gripped him was now gone, replaced with satisfaction that the test was working perfectly.

After two minutes, he turned the instrument off and let out a small sigh of accomplishment. Priya stood there still waiting to get unwrapped the belt around her waist. “The belt, Dr. Sandeep… I’m still trapped in it,” she teased softly, reminding him. Her churidar top, which she had been holding up, was now tucked into the backside of her waist under her jeans, revealing her bare belly wrapped tightly in the belt.

“Oh, right, right! I completely forgot!” Sandeep stammered, almost embarrassed. He knelt down in front of her again, his hands moving to unhook the back hook of the belt. It came undone with ease. But the front hook was much tighter, nearly impossible to unhook. The mechanism of the belt seemed to have tightened as the device pressed into her skin. Watching Sandeep struggle with the hook, Priya chuckled, her voice playful and light. “You know,” she said with a teasing grin, “maybe you should try using something sharp, like… your teeth?” She giggled, recalling a moment from her past. “I’ve seen my mom do that with my blouse hooks.

The suggestion sending a jolt through his system. He hesitated, his heart pounding faster. But Priya’s soft, encouraging voice calmed him. “It’s okay, really. I just want to get out of this belt.” His breath quickened as he leaned in closer, his face inches away from her smooth belly. The smell of her skin was intoxicating, and the sight of her waist exposed in such proximity was overwhelming. He brought his face closer to the front hook, attempting to bite the hook loose. His lips brushed against the tight belt, the only thing between him and her bare stomach. Sandeep bit down on the metal clasp, attempting to unhook it. The belt was so tight, he couldn’t get a proper grip. Hesitant, his voice barely a whisper, he said, “Priya… could you… pull your belly in?”. Priya complied, taking a deep breath and pulling her stomach inward. Her navel became visible, the tightness of the belt no longer obscuring it. Sandeep’s eyes were drawn to it, transfixed by the deep hollow that seemed to invite him closer. He was so focused that he barely noticed how long he had been working on the hook.

It had been over twenty seconds, and Priya, struggling to keep her breath held, started to feel the strain. She looked down at her stomach, realizing that if she let go, her belly would push forward… right into Sandeep’s face.

She tried to hold it in, but after a minute of struggling to keep still, her lungs burned for air. “Please… finish it quickly,” she begged internally. Priya could feel Sandeep’s breath on her skin. Sandeep finally managed to unhook the belt. As it fell away from her hips, Priya exhaled deeply in relief, her belly moving forward just as Sandeep’s lips were still near her skin. Her navel pressed directly against his lips.

For a second, both of them froze. Priya’s breath came in deep, relieved gasps, and in her moment of release, she forgot that Sandeep’s lips were still on her navel. His lips felt the warmth of her skin, the softness of her plump navel. He didn’t pull away. Instead, almost instinctively, he pressed a soft kiss against her navel. The sensation was electric. Priya looked down just in time to see Sandeep’s tongue dart out, slipping into her navel and swirling around its edges. Her eyes fluttered shut as she moaned softly, her body responding to the unexpected pleasure. His tongue moved deeper, probing inside her navel with slow, deliberate strokes, tasting every inch of her skin.

“hmmmmsssssss…” her hands, almost unconsciously, found their way to Sandeep’s head, pulling him closer, encouraging him.

Sandeep was lost in her. His tongue explored every inch of her navel, swirling deeper, tasting every curve and fold. Priya’s moans became more frequent as the intensity grew. She tried to take a step back, but Sandeep moved with her, his knees dragging across the floor as he stayed attached to her navel, unwilling to break the connection followed her movement, his tongue still working on her navel. His tongue worshipped her navel as if it was possessed under some spell. His hand moved up.

With a firm grip, he placed his hands on her hips, pulling her even closer to him. His tongue dove deeper into her navel, hitting the knot at the very base. He couldn’t swirl his tongue any deeper, so instead, he began rotating his head, letting every part of his taste buds savor her navel. The sensation was maddening for both of them and Priya’s hands found it’s way to his hair, gently pulling him closer to her as he continued to feast on her navel. “Aaaaahhhh mmmm uff” Her soft moans filled the room as the minutes passed, each stroke of his tongue sending waves of pleasure through her body. It was almost too much to bear, but neither of them could stop. For nearly four minutes, Sandeep continued, his tongue dancing inside her navel, tasting, teasing, exploring.

Priya could barely think of anything. Her eyes got completely immersed into her eyelids as she felt the pleasure to be so overwhelming. Her breaths became shallow and her heart started to pound faster. She couldn’t hold back any longer, her moans becoming louder, more desperate, as she massaged his head, pulling him harder and closer to her as she on the verge of an orgasm.

Then, suddenly, a loud ringing sound broke the trance. Sandeep’s phone vibrated on the floor nearby, jolting them both back to reality. Priya quickly stepped back, her chest rising and falling as she gasped for air. Sandeep, still kneeling on the floor, blinked, trying to process what had just happened. His lips tingled, still tasting the saltiness of her navel, and his heart raced. Neither of them knew what to say or do as they slowly came back to reality.

Priya, still in awe, her navel still tingling, glistened with Sandeep’s saliva, looked down at him, unsure of what to say.

Priya was a breath of fresh air, the kind of woman who brought light wherever she went. In the bustling clinic where stress often hung in the air like a thick fog, Priya was the one who effortlessly dispelled it with her infectious laughter. At 27, she was young, ambitious. Priya was always the life of the party, even in the most mundane of situations. Her colleagues would often marvel at how she managed to bring joy into their daily routines, making long shifts seem lighter and the most challenging days feel manageable.

She was beautiful in a way that went beyond mere appearances. Priya had a natural charm, her curly hair was her main highlight, and her captivating eyes often held a mischievous glint. Her almond-shaped eyes, deep and expressive, were the kind that seemed to draw people in without effort and the gentle curve of her lips always seemed to be on the verge of a smile. When she did smile, it was like a burst of sunshine, lighting up her face in a way that made everyone around her feel at ease. Priya’s style was elegant yet casual, blending tradition and modernity. Most days, she would stroll into the clinic in well-fitted jeans paired with a simple T-shirt or a kurta that accentuated her graceful figure. On some days, she wore churidars that flowed beautifully with every step she took, making heads turn without her even realizing it. There was something particularly captivating about the way her clothes hugged her curves—not overtly provocative but subtly sensual, leaving just enough to the imagination. She exuded class in every
outfit she wore, and the subtle sway of her hips as she walked was impossible not to notice.

Despite her beauty, it was Priya’s professionalism that had earned her the respect of those around her, especially Dr. Sandeep. She had worked under him for nearly three years, and in that time, she had become his most trusted assistant. Always by his side, she was a perfect blend of competence and compassion. Priya knew how to handle difficult cases with calm and precision, and she was always prepared, anticipating Sandeep’s needs before he even asked. More than just an assistant, she was his
confidante, the one person he could rely on in the most stressful of situations. She admired him deeply, not just for his medical expertise but for the man he was—dedicated, kind, and unwavering in his commitment to his work. Priya had always had a thing for Dr. Sandeep. Though she kept a professional distance, her admiration for him had grown into something more, something she never fully expressed but always felt.

A few days had passed and the shipment Sandeep had eagerly anticipated had finally arrived. The clinic was unusually quiet for a weekday, and Priya seized the opportunity to step into Sandeep’s office with a soft knock. “Sir, the shipment’s arrived. The new medical equipment from Qatar is here”. Sandeep looked up from his paperwork, a small smile forming on his lips. “Perfect timing. It’s a bit slow today, so we can finally go through it all,” he said, leaning back in his chair. Priya nodded and added playfully, “Finally! I thought you’d ordered something from Mars with how long it took to arrive.” Sandeep chuckled. “Qatar’s not that far, Priya,” he said, rising from his chair. “Let’s see what we’ve got.”

They made their way to the storage area, and Priya handed Sandeep a box cutter as they stood side by side, ready to open the shipment. As the cardboard flaps popped open, the scent of new equipment filled the room. Inside were various machines, neatly packed in protective foam.

“The ECG scanner,” Sandeep read aloud, pulling out a sleek machine. “And… this one’s the new pulse monitor. Looks compact.” Priya raised her brows, clearly impressed. “These look great! State-of-the-art stuff,” she remarked, running her hand along the edge of the equipment with curiosity.

Sandeep nodded in agreement. “Yeah, the latest models. We’re lucky to have them.”

As they continued unboxing, they came across a smaller, carefully packed box, set apart from the rest. It was marked with a special label. “What’s this?” Priya asked, intrigued.

Sandeep looked at the label closely, his brows furrowing in concentration before a smile spread across his face. “Ah, this… this is something special. It’s an abdomen palpation device. It’s sort of a belt i guess”

Sandeep briefly explained the basics of abdominal palpation to Priya who was already familiar with the procedure. He described how the process was usually done by pressing specific regions of the abdomen with bare hands, feeling for any abnormalities, tenderness, or masses and recording the patient’s reactions to pressing the zones on the abdomen. “This new device assists in the process,” he added. “It’s still not widely available in the market, but thanks to my connections, we’ve got an early model. It helps
provide more accurate readings.”

“So, what do you think, Priya?” Sandeep’s voice cut through her thoughts, and she blinked, trying to focus on the moment.

“Huh? Oh, yeah, it’s… really impressive,” she managed to say.

Sandeep smiled. “Good. Let’s learn how it works then, I hope the user manual is in this box somewhere” he said, picking up the machine box. Sandeep stood with the user manual in his hands, the sleek, modern
device resting on his desk. Both of them eager to understand how this device worked. Sandeep’s eyes scanned the details in the manual. “It’s a belt… interesting,” he muttered. Priya leaned in to get a better look. The belt had small pads and markings that showed the zones of the abdomen, just like how doctors divide the stomach area when examining patients by hand.

“So, what does it do exactly?” she asked, a mix of intrigue and playfulness in her tone.

Sandeep smiled, clearly impressed by the innovation. “It’s like a wearable diagnostic tool. The belt is designed to be worn around the abdomen, When it’s worn, it connects to this monitor,” he gestured towards the screen beside them, “and it gives real-time readings of any abdominal masses,
irregularities, and things like that.”

Priya’s eyebrows shot up. “So instead of using your hands, the belt does the job?”

“Not entirely,” Sandeep corrected, “It assists with the diagnosis but nothing can fully replace the intuition of a manual hand palpation. It just enhances what we’re already trained to feel for.” Priya’s thoughts briefly wandered as she heard him say that. She remembered seeing that navel picture on his phone a few days ago, and now here they were talking about examining the stomach area. His comment about using his hands for abdominal palpation made her mind swirl with thoughts she hadn’t been able to shake since that day. Could it be that Sandeep really had a thing for navels? The way he spoke about it now almost confirmed it for her. She wasn’t a stranger to this kind of discovery, and she wasn’t naive either. But the realization that her admired mentor, the man she had a soft spot for, had this particular preference stirred something deeper within her. There was an awkward, electric tension in the air now, but at the same time, it felt oddly exciting. She stole a glance at him as he continued explaining the device.

He continued reading from the manual, explaining how the belt could be adjusted according to the patient’s waist size. Sandeep continued, unaware of Priya’s train of thought. He spoke again, interrupting her thoughts.“ I think this will be an incredible tool. I can’t wait to try it on a patient.

Priya looked at him, an idea forming in her mind. She had a playful streak in her, and she enjoyed pushing Sandeep’s buttons every now and then. The awkwardness of the scene two days ago hadn’t fully dissipated, but now, with him talking about the abdomen and palpation, it felt strangely
relevant. “Why wait for a patient?” she said, her tone light and teasing. “Why not try it out on someone right now?”

Sandeep chuckled. “Do we have someone with stomach pain waiting outside?”

“No,” Priya said, her voice playful. “I mean, why not try it on me?

He looked at Priya, his brain trying to catch up with what she was suggesting. It was innocent enough on the surface, but after what she had seen on his phone, this suggestion felt like a nudge at something deeper— this was her playful way of testing him, of seeing how he’d react to a situation that could easily push him out of his comfort zone. After all, it was no secret to her now that women’s navels had a particular effect on him.

“I don’t know if that’s necessary…” he said. Priya saw the uneasiness on his face and smiled, enjoying his reaction. “Come on, it’s just a test. We’re both curious about the new machine, aren’t we?” she added. The
realization hit him hard—Priya knew. And now, with her standing in front of him offering to be the test subject, it felt like she was testing him, too. There was nothing overtly sexual in her offer, but it was the subtext that made the moment electric. She wasn’t being coy or overly forward—this was her way of showing that she understood him in a way few others did. And that, more than anything, intrigued her.

“Well, Dr. Sandeep?” she asked, her voice low and teasing. “Are we going to try out your fancy new machine, or are you going to keep waiting for a patient?”

Sandeep finally managed a chuckle, though it was strained. He looked at her, trying to regain his composure. “Alright, Priya,” he said, forcing a smile. “Let’s give it a shot.

(The reality of the situation settled in. This was more than just a test of a new machine—it was a test of his self-control, his ability to keep things professional despite the undeniable tension between them. Priya had thrown down the gauntlet, and now it was up to him to navigate this delicate moment without letting his desires get the better of him.)

Sandeep exhaled, leaning back in his chair. His earlier encounter with that Instagram reel had stirred something deep within him, reigniting desires he had long kept buried. His thoughts drifted back to Vrinda—their memories together, the tender moments, and the times when nothing in the world seemed more perfect than the love they shared. His eyes closed as scenes from his past played out in his mind. He hesitated for a moment, but then he picked his phone up, scrolling through the photos he had
stored—pictures of him and Vrinda during the good days. A faint smile crept across his face as he saw images of their happier moments: vacations, anniversaries, and simple candid shots at home.

One photo, in particular, caught his attention. It was from their last wedding anniversary, a trip they had taken to Thailand, the summer before their separation. In the photo, they were standing by the beach, waves crashing gently in the background. Sandeep was in a simple shirt and shorts, but Vrinda… she was breathtaking. She wore a crop top and shorts, her body radiating confidence and allure. The crop top revealed her creamy, smooth waist, and there, perfectly centered, was her navel—the very core of Sandeep’s desires. He zoomed in on the photo, his fingers trembling slightly as the image of Vrinda’s belly filled the screen. Her navel, a perfect, alluring dip, seemed to invite him, just as it had so many times before. The way her skin glistened under the sunlight, with the gentle breeze sweeping her hair across her face, made her look even more stunning. It was as if the sea, the beach, and everything around them had faded into the background, leaving only the tantalizing beauty of her exposed belly.

Sandeep felt a rush of heat course through his veins. His lips parted slightly as he stared at the photo, memories flooding his mind. He remembered how Vrinda used to tease him about his obsession with her navel. “Why are you so obsessive over that part?” she had once asked, her voice playful yet sincere. Sometimes, I wonder if there’s honey dripping from my navel, the way you’re always so fixated on it. Your tongue literally never leaves my navel alone whenever you get a chance”. The memory of her words sent a shiver down Sandeep’s spine. He recalled those countless nights when his tongue had traced every inch of her belly, how he would worship her navel, pressing soft, wet kisses against it, swirling his tongue around it, diving into the depth of her navel with a passion only she could understand. It was his sanctuary, a place where his desires found their release.

As he zoomed in further, his focus narrowed until only Vrinda’s navel was visible on the screen. It was the very definition of perfection—round, deep, with a slight curve that gave it an irresistibly inviting shape. His breath hitched when his eyes fell upon the tiny mole resting just above the left side of her navel. It was a spot he had worshipped countless times, a small mark that seemed to draw him deeper into his desire for her— a gateway to the depth of her navel that had enchanted him for years. His lips would gently trace that very mole, starting from its delicate contour and moving slowly, down to the dip of her navel. His tongue would circle the tiny mark, savoring the softness of her skin before tracing a path down toward the rich, inviting hollow of her navel. The sensation of her skin against his lips, the way her belly would twitch under his touch—it drove him to the edge every time. He remembered how Vrinda would sigh softly whenever he began his journey from that mole, knowing exactly where his tongue would venture next. His body responded instinctively, his fingers gripping the edge of the phone as he brought it closer to his face, the urge to kiss that navel overwhelming him. His breathing grew shallow as his lips hovered above the phone screen, inches away from the image of Vrinda’s navel. He imagined how it felt, how it tasted—like the sweetest nectar, like the most intoxicating elixir that he could never get enough of.

He wanted to kiss it. He needed to kiss it.

Without realizing it, he had brought the phone even closer, his lips now a hair’s breadth away from the screen. His heart raced as he prepared to press his lips against the image, to relive the sensations that had
consumed him for few months. His lips tingled with anticipation, his body aching with a need that only Vrinda could satisfy. The desire to kiss her, even through the phone screen, was overpowering. Just as his lips were about to meet the image, a sudden knock on the door again jolted him back to reality. His heart skipped a beat, and his body jolted. The phone, with Vrinda’s enlarged navel still glowing on the screen, was quickly tucked away into his pocket, his breath ragged, his body still humming with unfulfilled desire. He wiped the corner of his mouth, realizing how close he had come to losing control. His hands shook slightly as he tried to regain his composure, his mind still reeling from the intensity of the moment.

“Come in,” he called, forcing his voice to sound steady.

The door creaked open, and Priya stepped inside, her face calm but her eyes sharp. She hesitated for a moment, taking in the scene before her. Sandeep was sweating—his posture seemed tense, almost unsettled. Priya’s gaze lingered, sensing something off about her mentor.

“Sir,” Priya began, her voice laced with a note of concern, “there’s a patient waiting outside. Shall I send them in?”

Sandeep’s heart was still racing, and for a brief moment, he feared that Priya might have sensed the turmoil he was feeling. He shifted in his chair, his hands gripping the armrests as if they were his lifeline to stay in control. He could feel his composure slipping, but he fought hard to hold onto his
professional demeanor.

“Yes,” he replied, his voice more strained than he had intended. “Please send them in.”

“Right away, sir,” she responded, and with that, she turned and left the room.

As the door clicked shut, Sandeep let out a deep breath, trying to calm the storm within him. He wiped his brow and straightened his coat, preparing to meet the next patient. He reminded himself of where he was, of the need to maintain his composure even when everything inside him screamed otherwise.

Priya stepped in, assisting a limping man who appeared to be in his late 40s. His right ankle was swollen, and he winced with every step. Priya, calm and collected, held him up, his arm draped over her shoulders as she carefully helped him into the chair in front of Sandeep’s desk.

“Thank you, Doctor,” the man muttered as he settled into the chair, breathing heavily.

Sandeep glanced at Priya, who stood next to the table, her hand resting lightly on the patient’s shoulder to steady him. “What seems to be the problem?” Sandeep asked

“I slipped… fell down the stairs this morning. Twisted my ankle badly.”

Sandeep leaned forward, nodding. “I see. How long ago did this happen?”

“About an hour back,” the man replied, wincing as he adjusted his leg.

Sandeep signaled Priya to step closer and assist in examining the patient’s ankle. “Priya, please help lift his leg a bit. Let’s take a closer look.” Priya, still in the room beside the desk, gently lifted the man’s leg, placing it carefully on the stool in front of the doctor.

Sandeep observed the swelling and gently palpated the ankle, checking for signs of fracture. “Does it hurt here?” he asked, pressing along the outer edge of the ankle. The man groaned slightly. “Yes, right there.” Sandeep nodded. “Any numbness or tingling in the foot?” “A little… especially when I try to move it,” the man admitted.

“Can you try moving your toes for me?” Sandeep asked. The man wiggled his toes with difficulty, his face contorting with pain.

Sandeep leaned back. “It looks like you’ve sustained a minor fracture, but to be sure, I’ll refer you to a specialist. Dr. Anu is an excellent orthopedic surgeon—she’ll be able to treat this properly.”

The man nodded, looking relieved. “Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate it.”

Sandeep turned to Priya. “Please call Dr. Anu and let her know we’re referring a patient with an ankle fracture. Also, arrange for him to be transported by ambulance.”

Priya blinked, her face thoughtful. “Sir, I don’t have Dr. Anu’s contact number.”

Sandeep was already reaching for his phone. “No problem. I’ll give it to you—” He unlocked the phone, and as the screen lit up, a close-up image of a navel, zoomed in from earlier, filled the display. For a split second, Sandeep froze. His stomach twisted with panic as he quickly closed the image, but it was too late—he could see Priya had caught a glimpse of it.

There was a heavy silence. Sandeep’s fingers twitched as he lowered the phone, looking up at Priya. Her yes darted away, but a small, knowing smile tugged at the corner of her lips. For a brief moment, neither spoke. The air between them was charged with an awkward tension, but there was something else there, too—something curious in Priya’s gaze.

Priya’s eyes flicked back to him, her smile softening but still tinged with amusement. “Should I… call the ambulance first, sir?” she asked, her voice casual but with a subtle lilt that suggested she knew exactly what she’d seen. Sandeep cleared his throat, trying to steady himself. “Yes, do that,” he muttered, quickly scribbling Dr. Anu’s number on a notepad and handing it to her. “Here’s the number. Call her as well.” Priya took the paper from him. Her expression remained composed, but there was a glint in her eyes—like a secret shared but unspoken.

“I’ll take care of it, Doctor,” Priya said. As the door clicked shut making way out for both Priya and the patient, Sandeep exhaled deeply. His hands rested on the desk, his fingers still trembling slightly. Priya had seen the picture, and from the look on her face, it was clear she had understood what it was. His thoughts spun in a hundred directions, but one thing was certain—things had just become more complicated between him and Priya.

Sandeep entered his clinic, greeted by the familiar hum of activity. His clinic, located in the heart of the bustling city, was more than just a medical center—it was a testament to his hard-earned reputation. Patients from all walks of life sought him out, some traveling miles to get an appointment. The waiting room was already filled with individuals clutching token numbers. Sandeep acknowledged them with a polite nod and a warm, reassuring smile, his white coat catching the soft light as he strode through
the clinic.

The clinic itself was a reflection of Sandeep’s meticulous nature. It was spacious, with state-of-the-art equipment gleaming under the soft LED lights. The walls were adorned with certificates and accolades that spoke of Sandeep’s accomplishments, each one representing a milestone in his illustrious career. His team of nurses and staff moved efficiently, their respect for Sandeep evident in the way they quickly responded to his presence.

Sandeep walked into his cabin. He closed the door behind him, hung his bag on the hook, and slipped into his lab coat. He reached for his stethoscope, draping it around his neck with practiced ease before sinking into the comfort of his leather chair.

Just as he was settling in, Priya, his assistant doctor, knocked on the door and entered with a gentle smile. She was a vision of youthful grace, her presence immediately brightening the room. At 27, Priya had a natural charm that went beyond her striking appearance. Her curly hair framed her face like a cascade of dark waves, each curls perfectly shaped, drawing attention to her glowing eyes—deep, expressive, and always full of curiosity. Her skin had a soft, golden hue, and her beauty was understated yet undeniable.

Priya had only been working under Sandeep for five months, but in that time, she had already proven herself to be competent and diligent. She had completed her MBBS in China and was eager to learn everything she could from Sandeep before embarking on her own career. To Priya, Sandeep was
more than just a senior doctor—he was her idol, someone she admired not only for his medical expertise but for the calm, collected manner in which he handled even the most stressful situations. She respected him deeply, though at times, that respect felt like it was on the edge of something more for her.

“Good morning, doctor,” Priya greeted with soft smile.

“Good morning, Priya. What have you got for me today?” Sandeep replied.

“We’ve got a few patients today—mostly gastrointestinal problems, regular fevers, throat pain, and a couple of coughs. There’s also one patient with severe chest pain. We need to run further tests on him,” Priya reported efficiently.

“Sounds manageable. Let’s get started. Call token number one,” Sandeep said, leaning back in his chair.

Priya nodded and exited the room. Priya was not just intelligent but also remarkably poised for someone so young. Her beauty had not gone unnoticed by many, including Sandeep’s patients, who often complimented her elegance and professionalism. She dressed modestly but with a certain flair, her clothes always neatly pressed, her figure well-maintained. There was an air of confidence about her, but Sandeep had always maintained a clear professional boundary between them. Despite their friendly rapport, he knew that blurring those lines could complicate their work relationship.

The day continued in its usual rhythm. One by one, patients came in and out, each presenting their ailments, each leaving with a diagnosis or prescription. The clinic was buzzing with activity, and Sandeep’s mind was fully engaged in his work, but as noon approached, the flow of patients began to slow. By 12:15, the waiting room had emptied out, and Sandeep found a rare moment of quiet in his office. He leaned back in his chair, sipping his cup of coffee. Sandeep looked out for his phone. And for the first time that morning, he allowed himself to relax. With a few absentminded swipes, he opened Instagram, scrolling past mundane posts until something made him pause.

A saree draping tutorial.

The video began innocuously enough—a graceful hand gathering the long folds of silk, the fabric a rich shade of maroon. But as the camera zoomed in, his breath hitched. There it was—the model’s navel, perfectly framed by the delicately draped fabric, her waist exposed in all its soft, inviting allure. The curve of her belly drew him in. His eyes locked onto the screen, and for a moment, the world outside his office ceased to exist. The camera lingered on the model’s midriff as she tucked the pallu of her saree into the waistline of her petticoat and Sandeep felt a heat stir inside him. The subtle dips and rises of her abdomen quickened Sandeep’s pulse, His mind wandered back to his boyhood days, those first stirrings of desire as he watched actresses in South Indian movies, their navels peeking out from beneath their sarees in similarly teasing glimpses. It was mainly the South Indian songs that fueled a lifelong desire in him. It was then that his obsession with this part of a woman’s body began, an obsession that had only deepened over time.

The model in the reel arched her body slightly, her belly taking center stage, the camera zooming in on the supple skin around her navel. His eyes traced every line, every contour of her exposed belly. Without realizing it, his hand drifted downward, his fingers grazing the waistband of his trousers, a slow, almost unconscious motion as he watched the video in a daze. A bulge strained against his pants, a physical manifestation of the intense longing that had gripped him. His thoughts became clouded with fantasies, memories of Vrinda, of how her navel used to drive him wild.

Sandeep’s fingers hovered dangerously close to the growing bulge as he whispered to himself, almost inaudibly, “God, that navel…” His body tingled with desire, and every inch of him ached for release, his mind consumed with lustful thoughts of Vrinda’s navel—how it used to look when she wore a saree, how perfectly shaped it was, how he had traced the small mole just above it with his lips, worshiping every inch of her exposed skin. In his mind’s eye, he could see Vrinda standing before him again, her saree
draped low across her hips, her navel peeking out just as seductively as the woman in the reel. The thought of it made his heart pound even harder, his breath ragged with anticipation. His hand, now moving of its own accord, grazed the fabric of his trousers, sending a shiver of pleasure up his spine. His head was spinning, And just as he was about to give in completely to the sensations washing over him, a knock on the door shattered the moment.

He quickly removed his hand and sat upright, feeling his heart race as the door creaked open. Priya stepped in, holding a stack of papers.

“Doctor, we’ve submitted the order for the new medical equipments from Qatar. The shipment procedure requires your signature,” Priya said, her voice calm, unaware of the tension that had filled the room moments earlier.

Sandeep cleared his throat, his face flushed, trying to maintain his composure, quickly signed the documents. Priya stood close, watching him intently, admiration gleaming in her eyes. She couldn’t help but notice the way Sandeep’s brow furrowed slightly as he focused, his hands steady and sure as they moved across the page.

“Please forward it to the company and keep an eye on the shipment tracking,” Sandeep said, handing her back the papers.

“Of course, doctor,” Priya replied softly before turning to leave, the scent of her perfume lingering in the air as the door clicked shut behind her

Sandeep woke to the soft chime of his phone vibrating on the small desk, the morning sun barely peeking through the curtains. Still feeling dizzy, he reached for the phone and his heart skipped a beat when he saw the name on the screen—Vrinda.

For a brief moment, hope flared in his chest. Maybe, just maybe, she was calling him. Maybe she wanted to talk about things, to reconnect, to tell him something—anything—that would break the silence between them. His fingers hesitated over the screen as his pulse quickened. But when he finally answered, his heart fell slightly, the surge of excitement settling into something gentler. “Hello?”

“Good morning, Dad!” It was Vaishak’s voice, cheerful and lively, instantly brightening the room. Sandeep smiled, his initial disappointment fading into warmth. “Of course, it’s Vaishak” he thought, and though he missed Vrinda deeply, hearing his son’s voice was enough to make the moment better.

“Morning, champ!” Sandeep sat up, his voice taking on a more playful tone.

“How’s my little footballer doing?”

“School’s boring as usual,” Vaishak groaned in his usual dramatic way, “But guess what, Dad? I scored two goals at practice yesterday!”. Sandeep’s pride swelled. “Two goals? That’s amazing!, Can’t wait to see a Big European Club knocking on our door”

Vaishak’s excitement soared. “Shut up dad!! Don’t be unrealistic.” Sandeep grinned, loving how football always brought them closer.

Their conversation flowed easily, as it always did. Vaishak was full of stories from school, practice, madrid and Sandeep eagerly listened, happy to hear the joy in his son’s voice. But as the conversation started to wind down, Sandeep’s thoughts drifted back to Vrinda. He hesitated for a moment before finally asking.

“So…umm how’s your mom? Is she doing okay?”

Vaishak’s response was brief, almost routine. “She’s fine. Busy with work as always.”

Sandeep nodded, though his chest tightened at the mention of her. “That’s good… that’s good,” he replied softly, his mind drifting to thoughts of Vrinda. They spoke a little longer. Their conversation wrapping up with a light-hearted goodbye.

As Sandeep hung up, he sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the phone in his hand. The initial excitement he’d felt upon seeing Vrinda’s name lingered, now mixed with the familiar ache of longing. He missed her. More than he could ever say. With a deep sigh, Sandeep stood and made his way to the bathroom. The splash of cold water against his face did little to shake the memories that clung to his thoughts. He couldn’t help but think about Vrinda—her laugh, the way she used to wake him up, the drives they had together to the clinic. Even now, after all these years, her absence left
a void that nothing else could fill.

As he got dressed, pulling on his formal shirt and tying his shoes, Sandeep’s mind drifted further back. They had been so happy once. He could still remember those days in medical school, when they were young, ambitious, and in love. Vrinda had been his everything, and she still was, even after the divorce. He thought about her constantly, wondering if she missed him too.

Sandeep sighed as he grabbed his keys and stepped outside into the crisp morning air. The streets were already bustling, the hum of the city in full swing. He drove his car to his clinic. He still didn’t know what went wrong between them—why their love had crumbled under the weight of professional egos and emotional misunderstandings.

As he started driving to his clinic, the memories followed him, like shadows he couldn’t escape. He thought about their son, Vaishak, and how much he loved being a father. He thought about the early days when they were a family, before everything fell apart. There had been so much happiness, so much promise. But somewhere along the way, things changed. They argued more, worked longer hours, and stopped finding time for each other.

Neither of them wanted to admit it, but the separation became inevitable.The guilt gnawed at him. He had been too focused on his career, on being the best doctor he could be. He wasn’t there when Vrinda needed him most, and now, every day, he regretted the choices they both made. If
only things had been different.

Sandeep clenched the steering wheel, his heart heavy with regret. He hadn’t wanted the divorce—neither of them had—but they felt trapped by their circumstances. Two doctors, both ambitious, both struggling to balance their careers and their marriage. In the end, it was easier to walk away than to keep trying. Could they have made it work if they’d just tried a little harder? Could they have saved their love if they hadn’t let pride and stubbornness get in the way? He thought about the life they once had, and about the life they might still have, if only things were different. He thought about their son, and how much he still loved her. And though he knew they were separated, though they both lived their lives apart, he couldn’t help but wonder—did Vrinda still think of him the way he thought of her?

He arrived at the clinic. With a heavy sigh, Sandeep finally stepped out of the car and locked the door behind him. Sandeep shook his head, trying to push the thoughts away. He had patients to see, responsibilities to handle. With deep breath he entered his clinic ready for his duty.