Hope for the best, prepare for the worst

Saroj got the shock of his life when he returned home in the morning.

The waiting room is serene except for the hypnotic tick of the imported metal clock hanging on the wall and squeaky wheelchairs. A smell-evoking image of latex gloves and a stethoscope hang in the air. A medical team works behind the closed door of the ventilator. The white-washed walls in the waiting room reveal not a single spot of dirt. The navy carpet is woven, and there are a few plants on the windowsill. On a positive note, lavender brings a sense of ease. And the entire waiting room is pervaded by a metallic tang from stainless steel furniture.