shadows of the mind

"She left me doc. She did not even pack anything. She left me for that shit. I'd like to smash his ugly face . Fucking asshole". Sam's face grimaced, and his body began to tremble.

Ryan knew Sam, as he had been his patient for almost two years. The patient had a bad record of violent tendencies, and he already shows signs of planning to take action. But you can't deny a patient his anger. Reverse psychology is the most effective course of treatment in this case.

" Yes, you could do that, but that will resolve only your issues, not the relationship," Ryan whispered.

" My issues?" Sam looked confused at Ryan.

"Yes, it solves your momentary anger and your self-esteem, but it will not save your marriage or your relationship, not to mention you will go to jail."

"And how do I do it, doc? How do I get her back? He looked at Ryan with begging eyes. He loved the idea of his wife being his possession, Ryan thought, and doubted that guys like Sam could feel genuine love.

"Well, you can't right now. You need to give yourself and her some time and space. I also suggest you don't go home. Her pictures are probably all over the place. You said she left without taking anything? You should visit your mother or stay in a hotel until she calls you. There is still a chance, then, that she might change her mind. "Ryan tried to keep a calm tone, although he was concerned about what Sam might do. A psychiatrist must be the pillar that the patient leans on and must not show signs of nervousness and weakness—a model of calm and authority.

"No doc, I just want to smash that guy's face. Maybe she would turn back to me, " Sam said again, angrily.

"You think that she will turn back if you beat her lover up. It will have the exact opposite effect. He is bringing her pleasure and desire now. If you deny her that, she will hate you even more. You have **** now but to let her relationship develop, and then you will know if it was just a fling. A bad decision that she made".

Ryan had to give Sam some hope until his hot head cooled down.

" I should wait as she is fucking that guy? "Sam seemed even angrier than before.

"Yes, you are angry and sad. Whatever decision you make right now is the wrong one. Right now, you should do exactly the opposite of what you're thinking. I will also prescribe you some tranquilizers to help you sleep."

"C'mon, doc, okay, I'm not going to beat that guy up, but at least I should talk to her. You know, give her a call. "

"I sincerely advise against it. It will fuel your rage and anger even more. You've already done everything you can. Now, you must wait. Your job as a husband is to ensure your wife doesn't sleep with anyone else. Against my advice, you wanted to join that swinging club. It's already too late now. You've done everything contrary to what I prescribed. At least for now, listen to me."

This way, Ryan would make Sam think about his fault in the relationship and wouldn't blame others for a change. He knew that Sam wasn't the model husband either.

Sam was still angry, but to Ryan, it seemed like he was getting through to him. It was a personal victory for him if Sam didn't do something stupid in the next couple of weeks.

The clock rang, indicating the end of the session. Sam was still glued to the chair, unwilling to get up.

"Let's wrap it up for today. I want you to give me a call if you feel bad, and remember, don't go home ." Ryan said. Sam finally got up and made his way to the door. He had his head down, still lost in his inner turmoil.

"See you next week, doc," Sam said as he walked away.

Ryan looked at Sam, worried. He took a deep breath. It's up to him now." I did everything I could." He thought out loud.

He wished that he could follow Sam and make sure he didn't go home, but a patient is a patient, and a doctor is a doctor. A break-up is a hard thing for anybody, not just Sam. He knew cases even with patients who had no previous violent records that went berserk and became violent, threatening to take their lives and their exes. Cheating with a breakup is a hard thing to go through. Ryan remembered what it did to him many years ago. He blamed his mother and hated her for what his father had to go through. All his hatred and jealousy created him. And even after 8 years, he still couldn't get rid of him. He was still lurking around his head.

"Agh," a grimace appeared on Ryan's face. He immediately reached for his pocket and took two pills from a small pill container. He swallowed them without any water.

He noticed that with all these cheating cases lately, his old episodes are becoming more and more frequent.

"Maybe I should go on a vacation ." He said out loud.

A knock on his office door made him come to his senses from his internal dialogue.

The secretary squeezed her head through the door announcing Ryan's next appointment.

"Ryan, Lila Fergus has arrived. '"

"Yes, let her in. "Ryan said. He remembered that she was a new patient. She only spoke with his secretary.

A young brunette entered the office. The exotic appearance led Ryan to believe that she was definitely of Indian origin. Her ten was a brown olive that beautifully contrasted with her sparkling green eyes, which were hidden beneath two long eyebrows. Her bright colored eyes and darker skin complexion made an appealing and intriguing blend. She also had a nose ring, and the traditional bindi adorned the space between her eyebrows. Even her clothes seemed like a blend of Western and Indian styles. A blue corset with oriental drawings that was tightly squeezing her large breasts and modern short pants. Her name, however, puzzled Ryan. She was definitely not a Fergus.

"Miss Fergus, it's a pleasure to meet you. Please have a seat". Ryan said, smiling, and pointed to the chair in front of his desk.

"Please, to meet you as well, Doctor Lawson". The woman smiled and extended her right hand towards Ryan.

Ryan shook her hand and sat himself on his desk chair.

"So, Miss Fergus, you spoke with my secretary and signed all the confidential agreement papers". Ryan asked.

"No, not yet, doctor. I have intentionally misled your secretary, and I apologize. If you could hear me just for this session, and then decide what you want to do."

"Okay, those documents are more for protecting the patient than the doctor. Suit yourself." Ryan said with a neutral voice. He liked new patients. They were always fun and engaging at first until they dumped all their emotional baggage on him. He was curious about the mental health issues any new patient might be bringing in.

"Well, you see, this isn't for me. I am here on behalf of my son. I don't know how to put this". The woman appeared to be struggling to find the right words. "Well, first, let me confess. I read your book about double personality disturbance and thought that my son. No." She shook her head. "What I mean is that I researched for myself a while, and you seem to have the most experience on the matter. "

"Thank you". Ryan couldn't help but be delighted that such a beautiful woman found his book, useful.

"Well, like I said. I suspect that my son might have what you are describing in your book."

"If this is about your son. Do you have his consent? Is he of legal age? You understand that I must ask these questions." Ryan raised an eyebrow.

The woman was taken aback by Ryan's question. He knew that often mothers think that something is wrong with their child. But it's frequently some small fixation or a puberty-related phobia. A waste of time, as he was concerned. He usually sent these persons to his colleagues, as the cases were very boring.

"No, he is 18, but yes, it started years back." The woman said again.

"If he is of legal then there is no problem. Has he been seeing other doctors?"

"Yes, I took him to several, but only one had more sessions. "She looked embarrassed. "Let's just say. It didn't work out in the end as she was a female doctor."

Ryan was confused and became curious by her statement.

"How was that a problem?"

"Well. Haa ha, "she lets out an embarrassed laugh. "Well, how to put this? My son, other, or alter ego as you call it in your book. I mean it emerges when a beautiful woman is around".

"Well, that is certainly strange. In that case, I understand, but still, I would like to talk to her. I still need to clarify some aspects of your son's behavior."

"Of course, I will give you her number, but please bear in mind that things got messy between her and me. "Lila Fergus smiled charmingly. Ryan was keen to find out at what age she had her son. If he is 18 and she doesn't look more than 30 years old.

"You will need to tell me more about him and your family if I am to take him in as a patient."

"Well, as you can see. I am of Indian origin. My husband was African American. I grew up in Subrapur—an island in the Bay of Bengal. Oh, my husband passed away 4 years ago when Rakesh was 14 years old. He was a successful lawyer, and I didn't remarry. It's also when those episodes started. "

"Yes, the lack of a paternal figure often causes some phobias. Please tell me more about yourself. How did you and your husband meet?

"We've met in college. I had a scholarship from India. When we both finished college, we got married. Months later, I had Rakesh."

Ryan found it hard to believe that she was 40 years old. At what age does one finish college? Not earlier than 22 or 24.

"How did your husband die? Sorry to bring back painful memories ." Ryan was direct like a detective. Not holding back in this case. The kid grew up in a mixed marriage with two different cultures. Then he lost his father. That alone might've caused some anxiety.

"Car accident. A guy with a truck was speeding ." Lila said, making an effort to sound normal. But Ryan sensed the regret in her voice.

"Okay, don't worry. How is Rakesh's social life? Does he have a normal relationship with his friends?

"Well, no, that's why I decided to look for help, he doesn't. His affliction, or I don't know how to call it. He doesn't have any friends. I mean, he used to, but slowly as he had those episodes. He kind of scared all his friends away. His episodes keep him from having a normal social life".

"I understand. Can you describe it to me, those episodes that he is having?"

"Well, when the other guy appears. I don't know how even to call it. He calls himself Ashvin and claims to be an ancient sage. A practitioner who has reached the highest level of Vajra yoga. He is saying that he possesses sidhi. I mean, magical powers, and also, he can make any woman reach nirvana. As far as I am concerned, he is a pervert. To be honest, even my son's appearance changes. He seems taller than Rakesh. More well build not to mention other stuff. "

"What? The woman's last words left Ryan shocked. Changing appearance is only for the most severe of cases, as often the alter ego changes clothes or makeup, but to actually have a different physical stature. He never saw such a case. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde were only in the imagination of a writer. He couldn't believe what the woman was telling him.

"Yes, his body is taller, his shoulders are broader," the woman repeated her sentence.

Could it be that the mother also had some mental problems? It may be due to her religion. The thought crossed Ryan's mind.

"You said that you grew up in India. Are you religious? Did you and your son visit often? I am asking because those events that your son is having seem to have a religious connection."

Ryan hoped that he hadn't offended her and had to be careful, as he was trading on religious ground.

"No, I am not. My parents and I had an argument a long time ago, and I didn't follow the tradition. This is just for fashion purposes." She pointed at her forehead. "I have a lot of Indian clients ."

"Still? Your son might've read about it, or you told him ancient mysticism stories? Ryan knew that even if the patient was not directly involved, he might still be subconsciously affected by them.

"No, I don't think so," Lila answered quickly.

"Well, there is certainly a connection. Perhaps he often reads about mysticism or other Eastern practices, or perhaps he has witnessed some rituals. Is he part of a group? You would be surprised at how many cases like this exist due to social networks. Usually it all happens in front of the computer and the parents are unaware".

"No, he went to school here. I don't think so. He had a normal Western upbringing. Social internet, perhaps, but I'm not sure. " Ryan thought she hesitated for a while.

Ryan looked at her, and his psychiatrist eyes were telling him that she wasn't candid with him. Her visit here was motivated by concern for her son, but she still had some aspects that she was unwilling to discuss. That alone was an obstacle to curing her son.

"Any detail about your family and social life is crucial for a cure, "Ryan warned her. The woman seemed hesitant.

"Well, he does spend a lot of time on the computer, but I don't know what he is doing there". She said after a while.

"Okay, Miss Fergus. I need to talk with him personally and then figure out some kind of therapy." Ryan finally said after a short pause.

"Oh, I am glad. That means you will take him in. "

"I don't know. I can't promise anything. I need to talk to him, and based on that, I will make a decision. A psychiatric evaluation is necessary."

Ryan didn't want to give her false hope. It was definitely an interesting case and close to his heart. However, as it happens, many people with these afflictions are uncooperative or willingly mislead the doctor. He needed to meet Rakesh personally to determine if he fell into this category.

"Well, thank you, Doctor Lawson. I appreciate that you are willing to try. You will see that he is a sweet and gentle boy. He doesn't deserve this karma. " Lila said with nearly watery eyes.

"Okay. I will see him tomorrow morning. I will announce to my secretary to reschedule my other appointments. "

Ryan got up and said his goodbyes to her. She was his last appointment of the day. He returned to his desk and checked his schedule for the next day. It's going to be a busy day, and he'd better get a good night's sleep.

After closing his office up he took the long road from the city to his house. He parked his car and entered his house. The smell of cooked food entered his nostrils.

---

"¡Ay, doctor Lawson, bienvenido. ¿Cómo está su día?"

Maria was his maid for over 3 years. She was Ryan's only contact with the outside world. She arrived around noon every day, except on weekends, and was in charge of cleaning and cooking.

"Bien, gratias Maria," Ryan responded shortly.

"I made enchiladas plus a Greek salad. I hope you eat everything and don't waste food, as you did yesterday.

"Yes, Maria, yesterday I ate in town. " Ryan liked that she was direct and to the point with him. It was a big 6-bedroom villa, and she was doing all the work alone. She insisted that she didn't want any help.

After Maria's departure, Ryan ate, making sure to leave no leftovers, and then he took a bath. He came from a wealthy family, and the books he had written were generating a substantial monthly revenue. That alone, plus his family inheritance, made him a rich man. But psychiatry was his passion. The discipline that cured him in his childhood and made him the man he is now. Delving into people's minds was like an adventure for him. Of course, not all his patients were interesting, but those few cases that were made it worthwhile. He prepared to go to sleep, but the image of Lila Fergus was still on his mind. She is a beautiful woman indeed. With Lila Fergus still in his mind, Ryan fell asleep.

The next day. Ryan office.

Ryan barely arrived at the office when the secretary announced his first patient. He wasn't a morning person, and his first meetings were not scheduled until 10 am.

He remembered that Rakesh Fergus was his first meeting of the day. His mother made an interesting claim yesterday, and Ryan was more than interested to see for himself this transformation.

A young man entered the office. He had shoulder-length black hair and had a slightly darker complexion than his mother's.

Ryan noticed that his clothes were modern and seemed like two sizes looser than what the younger generation was wearing nowadays. Could it be true that he was really changing his figure, and the clothes were bought on purpose like this?

"Hello," a nervous voice greeted Ryan. I am Rakesh Fergus. "

"Welcome, Rakesh. Please call me Doctor Lawson," Ryan said, smiling at the young man. "Please have a seat ". Ryan pointed to the couch.

As he passed in front, Ryan noticed that the boy was a few cm. shorter than him. His figure seemed weak and slim under the large clothes.

Ryan sat himself on the other side of the small coffee table that he had in his office, right in front of his patient.

"Can I get you something, Rakesh? . A glass of water, some coffee?"

" No, thank you, doctor. " He answered shortly, not looking Ryan in the eyes. The boy seemed too shy for his age and was avoiding Ryan's piercing gaze. He was playing with his hands and seemed uncomfortable on the large couch. This was a sign of nervousness, as Ryan noted.

"Rakesh, as you know, I only spoke with your mother. I don't know what she told you, but this is just an evaluation to confirm her theories. There is no need to feel nervous as there is no pressure." Ryan smiled again. He needed to make Rakesh feel at ease so he could obtain the information he wanted. "You know, sometimes mothers exaggerate. The experience of the events is different from person to person." Ryan noticed that Rakesh shook his head, and his eyes this time focused on him.

"No, she is right, there is really something wrong with me. She is not exaggerating anything. " Rakesh said fast, seemingly annoyed. Ryan remembered that the boy had consulted several doctors before him, and perhaps he had developed some kind of distrust of the profession.

"So do you agree with her? She told you about her theory? "Ryan needed to know first how much the boy learned from his mother. Usually, in a double personality disorder. One is unaware of the other's actions or character. The alter ego is an entirely different person from the original personality.

"Yeah. I mean, I can't remember what I am doing, but I know ."His willingness to admit was refreshing for Ryan, as most patients were evasive about this problem.

"How do you know if you don't remember?"

"I find myself in strange places. I don't remember how I got there. My clothes were ripped and dirty. Friends were scared of me ."

"That could be temporary memory loss or other mental health problems. Did you have a brain scan? Any illnesses in your childhood?

"Yes, and no, I did have a brain scan and many other analyses made by my previous doctors ."

"I understand. I will need you to bring me everything you have. It's standard procedure before taking a new patient. I will also require you to do some tests. Are you okay with that?"

"Yes, at this point, I am used to it ."

"I understand, but it's imperative for any doctor not to give a rushed diagnosis. Your mother might have her theories, but what about your friends? Did your friends confirm to you what your mother is claiming?" Ryan interrupted him.

"Indeed, to the point of losing any hope of trying to explain to them ." He shook his head. People were marginalized for a lot less these days, not to mention a mental illness that makes you completely unaware of your actions. Ryan thought.

"How long ago did it start. Do you have an estimate? "Ryan asked.

"Well, my mom said that it started when I was fourteen. I was unaware, like I am now, so I take her word for it."

"How was your relationship with your father?"

"Great, I really enjoyed his company. I still miss him," Rakesh said quickly.

"What about your mother? I noticed that you trust her, but that is normal between mother and son. What about your relationship? Do you two spend a lot of time together?

"Well, no, it's weird. I can't face her knowing what Ashvin. I mean, the other did. "

"What did he do? " Ryan was paying attention very closely.

"Well, he nearly **** her, and he always makes sexual advancements toward her. To the point of me thinking that she is in danger."

"What? She didn't mention this". Ryan began to worry as the case was starting to become too violent for his taste. "Did she call the police or ask for a restraining order against you?"

"No, I told her to get me arrested. But she would never do that. You know what I mean. She is my mother, plus, how do you explain something like this to the police? "

"There are clinics that can help you if your alter ego shows violent tendencies."

"You mean mental hospitals. We thought of that, but she doesn't want to send her only child there." Rakesh said.

"I understand, " Ryan responded as he himself didn't agree to that possibility." But you and your mother should understand that if I notice a dangerous behavior from you. I mean, you're other self, I am **** by law to report to the authority." Ryan thought it best to clarify the legal issues from the start.

"I don't think that you're gonna see that. I don't even think Ashvin will show up. " I don't know what my mother was thinking". Rakesh shook his head.

"Why do you think that. What are the circumstances of making him show up? Ryan knew from his own experience that in every case of double personality, there are events that trigger the appearance of the alter ego.

"Well, he only appears when there is a beautiful woman around. " Rakesh raised his shoulders.

"That's interesting ". Ryan scratched his chin, thinking. "So, any beautiful woman? What kind of woman does he like?

" I don't know exactly. He appeared when I was in high school".

"So, younger teenagers, but you said he and your mother?

"I mean, I suppose he likes what I like in a way ." A smile appeared on Ryan's face. Of course, Rakesh needed to admit to himself that only after the leading personality has been stimulated would his alter ego make an appearance.

"It's good that you see a pattern here. So, what kind of woman do you like, Rakesh? Apart from your mother, of course. You can tell me everything about your fantasies ."Seeing that Rakesh hesitated and seemed embarrassed, Ryan added. "You shouldn't feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. It's not uncommon for young males to be infatuated with their mothers. Oedipus syndrome plays an important role in a child's mental development."

"Well, I suppose any girls my age or even older," Rakesh said.

" I understand. Ryan needed Rakesh to narrow it down:" What about physical appearance: tall, blondes, redheads?"

"I don't think I even have a preference. Whatever, I don't think it works like that with me. Any woman is nice ."

Of course, Rakesh was a teenage boy with his hormones spiking to the roof. Any woman was in his range of preferences. Ryan needed to find a way to make the other appear, but Rakesh wasn't helping him.

"So what about Sophia, my secretary. Do you like her? "Ryan asked.

"Yes, but I don't think that will make Ashvin show up." Ryan smiled as Rakesh figured out his intentions. "I sometimes go on the bus full of women, and Ashvin doesn't show up. I don't know how to trigger his appearance. "

"I understand. A certain level of intimacy is needed for you and him. Sexual stimulants are everywhere on the internet. So you're saying even if you watch a certain movie, he is not gonna show up." Ryan inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, that is what I am saying. He looks only at certain women." Rakesh fell into the trap that Ryan had set.

"That says more about you than about him. Don't you think? You must gather your courage and think carefully about what you like in a woman. Remember what your mother and the girls in your school have in common. This is crucial for your treatment."

" Well, I don't know. "Rakesh seemed annoyed at first by Ryan's demand, but he kept quiet and seemed like he was making an effort of reminiscence." I really don't know, doctor."

"What about your ex-female psychiatrist?" Ryan was trying to stimulate his memory.

"A, yeah. Miss Parker was so and so. I didn't really like her. "

"So, what happened with her? Your mother mentioned that things got ugly."

"Well, it appears that my mother caught them doing stuff. I don't remember much. As soon as I entered her office, Ashvin was taking over. "

"You mean they were intimate with each other?". And you didn't find her appealing or beautiful in any way?" Ryan found this statement hard to believe. The alter ego is stimulated only after the primary persona is stimulated. It was in the rule book of double personality disorder. It couldn't exist any other way.

"No, she is beautiful, but not like Mom or other women. "Rakesh said quickly.

"Okay, I will have to speak with your mother about this." Ryan decided out loud.

"Yes, she knows better what they did. She didn't even tell me. You know it's hard for her. I was even considering moving out." Rakesh seemed to be feeling more comfortable talking with Ryan.

"Why?"

"For her and me, plus it seems like Ashvin has trouble going around. "Haha, Rakesh laughed slowly.

"How come?"

"Well, he can't drive. He calls the car a carriage and the motorcycle a mechanical horse. Mom says that he didn't even speak English and was speaking an old language. Actually, she is the one who made him learn English. Mom knows Sanskrit and five Indian languages, but even she was having trouble understanding what he was saying. She later found out that what he spoke was similar to an old southern Indian dialect. She was talking to him in Sanskrit before he learned English.

"That's not uncommon, although he is different from you, he is still you. Why not, Russian? Because it's your culture and your inheritance. Your mother must have told many stories as you grew up, or perhaps you read Buddhist or Hindu literature. You picked up on those, and Ashvin was created in your subconsciousness". Ryan thought Rakesh needed to be aware that the two personalities exchange information, even if they are not aware of it.

"It's strange, doctor, that I have never even been interested in such things," Rakesh said in a slow voice.

"The subconscious picks out different things than the conscious. It's not what you're interested in, but more what you observed". Ryan tried to summarize for Rakesh an entire theory that even some psychiatrists like himself disagreed on.

"Okay, but how can I learn a different language"? Rakesh was still in doubt and asked.

"Well, that's the trick, isn't it? You don't know what the other is doing. In order to make himself credible to himself and others, he studied that language".

"What? so, he knew English and was lying."

"It's not that simple. You must understand that he might not be rational like you and me. His idea of reality is different. You can't judge a psychopath by the rules of a sensible human being.

"So, he is crazy, or is it me that's actually crazy? I don't understand." Rakesh said in a rushed, angry tone.

"No, first, I must confirm that this is indeed what your diagnosis is. In the case of multiple personality disorder, usually some kind a shock happened in your past, and your repressed feelings got projected into a different personality. Every human being acts differently depending on the environment in which they are. When he is at work or with his family. For example, when you're with friends, you use a different kind of speaking style than when you are with your mother. I don't think she would appreciate the teenage slang that is used today. Am I right?" Rakesh nodded silently, and Ryan continued." The multiple personality disorder is an overstimulation of different ways of behaving. Everybody does it; the only thing that differentiates you from normal behavior is the fact that you are not aware of it. Think of it as the two sides of the same mirror. One looks the other way and can never see the other. You and Ashvin are looking at the same reality, but on different time frames. It's an entire psychology, and it will take a long time to explain". Ryan realized that he was giving Rakesh too much technical information.

"Well, I guess. So, is there a treatment? I mean, Mom said that you're an expert in multiple personality disorder." Rakesh asked.

"Of course, everything has a treatment, but we must not jump to precipitate conclusions. First, we must eliminate other possibilities, and if it's indeed a double, there is a cure." Ryan said quickly and gave Ashvin a warm smile. All mental illness treatment had to start with a positive attitude, and Rakesh needed to hear the good news first, rather than being discouraged. "I need to meet this Ashvin if he exists, of course, and figure out his personality. Only then is a treatment possible."

"Okay, doctor, if there is a cure. But how do you plan on seeing him?" Ryan again smiled.

"I will have to make you believe that there is actually a beautiful female here. I am sure you've seen it in movies. It's called hypnosis."

"What? Is that real? My other doctors didn't even mention it."

"Of course it's real, but it's a little different than what you saw on television. Ryan took a pill from a container in his pocket. Okay. Let's begin. This is a potent hallucinogen, but after you take it, you need to tell me if you feel the urge to vomit or feel dizzy. Do you understand? ". Rakesh nodded.

Ryan got up and took from his pocket something that seemed like a lantern to Rakesh.

"You see, this is called a cromateur. It flashes different colored lights. You must remember to make me stop if you feel dizzy or sick ." Ryan gave Rakesh one pill and some water. Then he closed the lights in the office. They were sitting in black pitch darkness.

"You must close your eyes and relax. You need to feel comfortable."

Ryan pushed a little button on the cromateur, and it flashed a blue light.

"Open your eyes just slightly and tell me what color I am flashing ?"

"Blue "

"Right and now?" Ryan flashed a green light

"Green "

"Okay, now in the green light, I want you to picture your mother. Her warm smile is meeting your eyes . You feel welcomed and blessed to have such a beautiful mother".

"You make up her features in your imagination. Her features are becoming more precise and more accurate. You hear her talking. She is right here in the office with us. My voice slowly disappears, and so does the green light. Ryan switched to a normal white light.

"Only her remains with you in the office. I am gone. "

Rakesh's head tilted to the left while his jaw dropped. Ryan was startled as Rakesh's head bent unnaturally. That seemed like a fracture, but he breathed easily as his head turned into a normal position. What happened next left Ryan in a state of shock. Right before his eyes, Ryan saw Rakesh's body undergoing some drastic changes. While his hair remained the same, his body seemed to swell. This is impossible, and Ryan approached him to take a closer look. All this seemed unbelievable from a medical viewpoint. The bone structure doesn't change from one minute to the next. Human anatomy can undergo some changes, but not on this scale. Ryan began to think that someone was playing tricks on him, but he was observing Rakesh's every movement. He could trick him into appearing shorter in height, but not in shoulder width. This was impossible. Ryan got up and got even closer to Rakesh. He couldn't help himself and grabbed Rakesh's arm to see if it was a trick.

"Suprab etra. "Ryan saw Rakesh focusing on him as he grabbed his arm.

The New Rakesh seemed angry and threw Ryan an angry look. He got up from the couch and towered over Ryan by at least 20 cm. Suddenly, he grabbed Ryan by the collar, lifting him up. Ryan grasped for air as he was being lifted from the ground.

An angry voice began questioning him and looking him right in the eyes.

"Supra tren brsting," he said again.

"I don't understand," Ryan managed to say while trying to get out of the deadly embrace.

The new Rakesh studied Ryan for a while. He seemed annoyed by something and, without any effort, threw Ryan at least 3 meters away. Ryan fell to his back doing a last-second roll, barely avoiding an impact with his desk.

Rakesh turned around and went to the windows. He looked outside. He then got out of the office and looked at the hallway. He appeared confused and started studying the unfamiliar environment.

"Where's Lila? He asked after a while. Ryan checked himself after the violent encounter. It appeared that nothing was broken. He adjusted his suit. He had seen violent cases when he was an intern in the mental hospital. He was used to it, plus Rakesh seemed to calm down.

"Hello, I am Doctor Lawson . ". He smiled at the new Rakesh.

"Doctor !!! Doctor, like Mila. I understand now." Rakesh said while scratching his chin, "Lila still doesn't believe me". The somber tone of the last sentence piqued Ryan's curiosity.

"She doesn't believe what ?" Rakesh looked angry at Ryan, and he was certain he was due to another trashing, but Rakesh didn't move this time; instead, he threw Ryan a condescending look.

"Mind games and language subtleties don't work on me, Engrezi. I should warn you that I am myself a philosopher and skilled in manipulating others ."

"Then you must understand my curiosity also ".Ryan said quickly.

"Indeed, curiosity. I am indeed a strange person, but not one that you, with your limited knowledge, can grasp or understand. Why should I converse with you? I gain nothing in the process. "Rakesh sat himself back on the couch, giving Ryan a disgusted look.

"Well, there is always something to gain. Even in my ignorance, there is certainly something to gain. For example, I can call Lila or not, leaving you here to wander in the city. Or I will tell her that this is too much for me, and she will come to pick you up. But first, I must know what it is that I don't understand."

"Ha, ha, you are a funny one ". Rakesh seemed amused ."Suit yourself, svetah vanarah, I will explain to you."

"My name is Ashvin Rachshivram. I am a poet and musician. I died a long time ago, but already reached the vajra body. I traveled to my Deva realm and began dissipation of the mind. Ashvin's face grew darker as he seemed to remember something unpleasant. Over there, well, I didn't....Let's say I offended someone and got back to earth."

"I don't understand ."

"Really. You see, even if I try to explain to you. This language lacks the words to express it. "

"Well, you could try using analogies? You say you came from another world?"

"Indeed. I was in my Deva realm for hundreds of years."

"Okay, "Ryan heard unusual claims at work, not to be slightly affected, and Ashvin seemed to respect that. "Why this world? Why now? Ryan asked.

"Time moves differently over there. To be honest, I did the calculations myself using the movement of the sun and moon, and it doesn't add up.

Well, this was new even for Ryan—a psychotic whose psychoses weren't perfect.

"Okay. I know something about Buddhism. Are you a Buddhist or a Hindu?"

"I don't know what you're talking about. I worship the Devi and only the Devi?. He again looked angry at Ryan.

"Okay, I apologize. You must understand that we don't have."

"I know, I know that these are godless times. I've been told. The old texts are wrongfully interpreted, and the sages are long dead. Lila has already told me that these ages are dark and filled with ignorance. Ashvin's disgusted demeanor amplified his feelings about modern times.

"Okay, then you probably came from the past."

"Haha, what ignorance. To think that just because time flows continuously in this world, so does in other places ". Ashvin still looked angry, but with a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"It doesn't?" Ryan was intrigued by Rakesh's claim, even though he knew he wasn't speaking to a rational thinking person.

Ashvin laughed out loud.

"Ha, ha, actually it does. I was just jesting. Haha. But I made you think about it." Ryan realized that from Ashvin, he would not get many answers.

"Then how are you here?"

"Well, another stupid question. Not even skilled sages understand the process, and you want me to explain it to you."

"Okay, if you don't cooperate, I can't make my report to Lila, and you will meet me again tomorrow and the day after". Ryan prepared himself to be thrown again as he saw that Ashvin didn't take his threats lightly.

"Put your stupid questions, but I warn you if you come between me and Lila ."Ashvin made a threatening sign by drawing a line with his pointing finger on his neck.

Ryan smiled right in his face. He would be surprised, thinking that Ryan was scared of him. Ryan's complicated childhood gave him an advantage when dealing with ****.

"Actually, it's not me who's between you and Lila, it's her son Rakesh. You are aware of his existence ?"

"I know. Hey, I don't have anything against the kid. I got into his body accidentally. I don't want to cause him harm. "Ashvin's answer left Ryan perplexed. It was the first time that he heard that the double personality didn't hate the original one.

The whole point of the double was to be different and in contradiction to the original. Was this really a split between two personalities or something else entirely? It could be rapid growth syndrome with psychosis. Ryan needed to review his diagnosis.

"You're saying that you don't want to harm Rakesh, but in you just existing, the harm is already done."

"I know, and I apologized to him many times through Lila. I don't want to be here either, and if Lila would just listen to me, maybe he and I can work together."

Again, his words made no sense to Ryan. Usually, the double wants to eliminate the host, not work together. Ryan thought maybe this was just a trick, but something about Ashvin's tone made him discard the thought.

"What are your plans for Rakesh?

"It's not towards him but towards Lila. I already explained to her. Suppose she would just believe me. I can just disappear, and his life would turn back to normal.

"Okay, I don't see why Miss Fergus would oppose something that can cure her son. You can relate the details to me, and I will ensure she agrees. "Ryan knew that even if his plans didn't work, he, as a doctor, needed to be supportive towards both personalities.

"You will? haha, then maybe I was wrong to threaten you, and I apologize to you also. My vraja body must be restored, and the only way to restore it is with a woman. Actually, more than one woman is needed, but Lila will do in the first phase until I train Mila."

"And Mila would be your ex-doctor. I mean Rakesh's"

"Yes, she is a very beautiful and smart woman, but she is untrained in yoga. I will teach her with time. She is the only one who believes me."

"I don't see how she can help? Ryan realized that his ex-doctor played a crucial role in Rakesh and Ashvin's psychic, but he still didn't understand why he needed two women to practice yoga with. The more he spoke, the more confused Ryan became.

"Doctor, Vajra Yoga, also called the union of sun and moon, chandrasuryasambhoga, is a highly sexual discipline. You understand now why Lila is against it. She sees me as her son."

Ryan was initially surprised by his claim, but he eventually understood. It was just a repressed sexual infatuation case. A simple psychosis that blew out of proportion because the infatuation was between mother and son. Ryan was amazed at how similar they were to his case, also.

"You need Miss Fergus to practice this discipline with, but she told me that she didn't practice anything, plus in these modern times, almost everyone is practicing yoga.

"Again, your ignorance is annoying ". Ashvin threw a disgusted look towards Ryan," Not the gymnastics that you white monkeys are practicing, but real yoga. Ryan was again at a loss when he thought he understood him.

"So I take it that Miss Lila is already practicing this yoga."

"No, she does not know this yoga, but she is already in a kula and has had diksa."

"Okay, stop there. You convinced me. I will ask her for more clarification about this discipline ."

"Yes, my patience has limits when dealing with this time's ignorance. "

"Okay, seeing that is already too late. If you could let me speak with Rakesh, I will make an appointment with Miss Fergus".

"Let you speak with Rakesh? I need to sleep first. I noticed that only then does the boy take my place in this consciousness's body. You see, my mind is too powerful. Only when I am tired, the boy's consciousness has the strength to overpower mine."Ashvin said with a straight face.

"So you need to sleep? I got some sleeping medicine. You can rest here if you want, "Ryan said immediately as he wanted to witness the transformation again.

"Yeah, about that. Mila already tried that. My body is immune to most poisons and medicines. "Ashvin said again, "You will take me to Lila, as I am unfamiliar with the environment."

"Okay then. I will call a cab so you can go home. You know, like a car. I will speak with Miss Fergus to wait for you."

After the arrangements were done, Ryan accompanied Ashvin to the cab. He immediately called Lila Fergus.

"Miss Fergus, this is Doctor Ryan Lawson. I've sent Ashvin with a cab to your current address. He should be arriving in an hour or less, depending on the traffic. "

"What?" Lila "voice showed signs of shock. " He appeared. But how? Ryan realized by her reactions and that of Rakesh's that Ashvin's appeared only to him and the ex. Female doctor.

"Yes, indeed. He is quite a charming individual. "

"I apologize in anticipation of whatever he did or said."

"There is no need, Miss Fergus. Trust me, I had worse patients than your son. But another matter worries me. You need to come to my office and explain some matters. He made some claims that I need to verify with you."

"I understand, but can we do this somewhere else. I feel like a patient in your office. We can meet in town for lunch or whatever."

"Sure, "Ryan agreed almost immediately." We can meet in town when I finish with my other patients. How about 5 o'clock this evening? I will message you the address of a friendly Coffee shop. "

It was a little out of the ordinary, but Ryan had to agree with her. That transformation was unnatural. He had to convince Lila Fergus to let him monitor Rakesh. Some medical tests were also needed. This case was beginning to bear a striking resemblance to his. A sexual infatuation with a young mother, and then again an unusual alter ego.

Ryan took a quick look at his next patient. There were easy cases. He had two couples therapy sessions and a girl with Tourette's syndrome.

All day, his mind drifted back to what he had witnessed this morning.

He needed Rakesh to conduct a complete check-up and, if possible, trigger that transformation during the scan. It could completely change the way we doctors think about the human body. But a lot of experiments had to be done, and he had just the place. He also invested in a small pharmaceutical company that had a research center. If only he could convince Lila Fergus. He will make proper arrangements for Rakesh to undergo treatment.

The day passed slowly, as his patients were evasive, and Ryan had to coax the words out of their mouths—a typical day at the office. At 4 o'clock, he closed the office and went to the meeting with Lila Fergus.

He arrived late, not finding a parking spot quickly enough. He noticed Lila was already at a table waiting for him.

"I apologize for being late. Traffic was infernal on the way here."

"Yes, me too. I made a poor decision when I suggested meeting in town at this hour. Lila smiled.

"No problem. How is Ashvin? Did he arrive safely?....

"Yes, I made him watch TV. He wanted to follow me to work. He acts like just like a child sometimes." Lila's demeanor seemed nostalgic for a while, and Ryan wondered why. What she had to go through with Rakesh made Ryan admire her. Other parents would have had him internalize a long time ago.

"I understand it's hard for you, Miss Fergus. I have to admit it's not a simple case. His physiological transformation, to put it mildly, is disturbing. Not to mention his psychosis."

"His psychosis?" Lila wondered.

"I'm sure you know. He comes from another realm and was a great philosopher."

"He told you about that also. You made a lot of progress. He didn't even appear to any other doctors except Mila ."

"Yes, tell me more about their relationship. How did it start ?"

"Well, about two years ago. I was looking for a psychiatrist, and my colleagues recommended her. She was making great progress at first. We even had joint sessions where Ashvin was present. I gave her a lot of money. She took my son to all kinds of checkups. Brain scan, everything. I invited her to dinner many times, and we became friends. Everything seemed fine, and even Ashvin became more social. I noticed that they were extremely close to each other. I didn't think anything at the time, but as I was in town, I saw them on the street. They didn't act like doctor and patient, but more like lovers. I saw them kissing each other. I confronted her the next day. She admitted that they were lovers and she believed him. I told her that she is fired. She began threatening me, saying that she wanted to reveal him to the world, and I was in the way of science. She got a lawyer and charged me with parental negligence. I had the conversation registered where she admitted that she had a relationship with a minor. Rakesh was seventeen at that time. She dropped all charges against me, and I now, I threatened her back. If she even approaches me or Rakesh again, I will end her career. I told you it was ugly, and she drew out the worse in me."

Ryan remained still as he grappled with past events. He had to admit that both women were right and wrong at the same time. This case is becoming too complicated, but Rakesh's case was similar to his, and he could learn a lot by observing the outcome. The fact that there was another doctor like himself who knew Rakesh's medical potential made him conflicted. He really needed to meet her and understand her intentions.

"That is a most disturbing revelation, " Ryan thought out loud. "A doctor with his patient and a minor, nonetheless."

"Yes, I know, but I don't entirely blame her. Ashvin is the bad guy here. He can be very cunning and knows how to manipulate women ." Lila's words resonate in Ryan's mind, causing him to doubt his own conviction. Is it a sick patient still guilty of something?

"Still. She is a doctor and should know better." Ryan said quickly, and they both fell into a long silence. Ryan thought at this point, what if it was dangerous to make contact with her? "I hate to bring it up, but I have to admit that we might need her. Her research is still valuable, although you said that she believed him. Her logical reasoning might be compromised at this point. Even her professional integrity is compromised. It's your call, Miss Fergus, if you decide that I shouldn't make contact with her. I will respect your decision. "

"I understand, and I was afraid of that, but I will allow it if you promise me that they don't continue their relationship. "

"I." Ryan was **** to promise anything because of too many variables, but seeing that Lila looked at him with a determined look, he had to agree." Okay, I will try"

"Then it's settled. I also want you to tell me what they talk about and what kind of treatment you and she will be conducting."

"Sure. I have no problem with that, but it will be hard to keep track of Rakesh. I suggest a clinic. I know a few that allow 24-hour visits."

"No, no." Lila shook her head and looked angry." I will not put him into a mental hospital. "

"His case might be severe, and he needs 24-hour care. Rakesh already told me about his endeavor with you. Ashvin himself revealed what his plans are regarding you. It's for your own protection, Miss Fergus."

"No, no, and if you insist, I will take my leave". Lila seemed determined to keep Rakesh at home, and Ryan gave up.

"Okay, I will consult with Doctor Mila and see if she has a solution. Renting an apartment close to my office could also work." Ryan really needed to monitor Ashvin's behavior around the clock.

"Yes, that could work. I'll let you two decide."

Lila seemed tired and wanted to rush things, but Ryan was still thinking about Ashvin's words.

"Yes, but still, I have a couple of questions about Ashvin's intentions. He made reference to some strange yoga that you are already practicing. What is he referring to?

"I never even heard... no, I am not practicing. No, his yoga is different." Lila's outburst and embarrassment were an essential confirmation that there was more to it than a simple ritual.

"Miss Fergus, I am not familiar with this practice. What kind of practice are we talking about?"

"Ohh, I am sure you heard all the negative connotations about Tantra yoga, but it's not what you imagine. It's just the way some villages in India worship gods. You must understand that in India, many rituals and practices might differ from village to village. There is also Vajrayana Buddhism."

"But do you believe in those practices and follow them daily ?"

"No, of course not. I was raised with it and indeed I had to practice it, but since I argued with my family, I quit ."Lila quickly admitted.

"Just needed to confirm. So, what Ashvin is talking about is just made up? An imaginative psychotic perversion of those practices."

"Well, of course, but not entirely. He is very knowledgeable, but what he is talking about is more related to a mixture of some strange kama sutra and tantra. He brags that he reached the Vraja body. That means Diamond body. An indestructible state, in which his body is immune to most poisons and diseases. "

"He also claimed to be a master of this kama yoga. Of course, he needs more than one woman to practice with. "

"Yes, that's horse shit. Pardon my French. I had never even heard of this yoga, and trust me, I was raised with it. I even made some calls and researched for myself. Talked to many gurus and scholars trying to find something, but found nothing. " You know," Lila had again that nostalgic look, "Like Mila, I believed him for a while, saying that he wanted to help Rakesh—more like it. I wanted to believe him, imagining that indeed he was this poet from ancient times who had somehow reincarnated and shared a body with my son. "

"So what made you decide that this is the double personality syndrome?"

"It's what he said one day that's very disturbing," Ryan noted the pain and fear in her eyes. " He said he is glad he killed Daniel, my husband." Ryan remained shocked at her words.

" Are you certain? You might've misinterpreted."

"Yes, he went even further, accusing me of not respecting the traditions. All because I married an uninitiated man, and my son pays the price for it. We argued for a long time. He even wanted to **** himself on me. I was **** for a while and kept my distance from my own son. But I couldn't let him be alone with that thing. I looked for help. I've met Mila and other doctors along the way. Actually, she was the one who first suggested the multiple personality disorder ."

The Coffee shop began to crowd, but Ryan didn't even notice, as he was absorbed in Lila's story.

"It's a lot of responsibility to take care of on your own, Miss Fergus. There are clinics with minimal security. I have to tell you what I said to Rakesh. If he shows violent tendencies, I am obligated by law to report it. "

"I know. I have studied law, remember, and no. I won't put my son in one of those. "

"Your husband died in a car accident, right ?"

"Yes, the driver was drunk, and he even admitted to the crime. He served 2 years for negligent driving because it was raining and he had the circumstances. Of course, Ashvin was lying, but to even mention something like this. Or maybe a twisted joke of his. I don't know. "

Hmm, confessing a crime. Ryan has sent patients into the Sanatorium for a lot less. Allowing the illness to continue and develop for so long was certainly Lila's fault. The boy needed urgent treatment 4 years ago.

"Then it's time to take my leave. I will meet with Rakesh's ex-doctor and decide on a suitable location for him."

"I will await your phone call," Lila said, getting up after Ryan.

They said their goodbyes in front of the coffee shop and went their separate ways.

He arrived home quite late in the evening due to traffic. Lila Fergus's story was more engaging than he had previously expected. Maybe he should postpone his other patients. He needed to research and investigate. His brief encounter with Ashvin already left a bad impression on him. He was definitely a violent character with antisocial behavior, but to actually say he killed another human being. Lila Fergus presented him with quite the family drama. Under her dark, beautiful face, there was hidden quite a tragedy. Ryan felt compelled to help her. He should make a plan. It will start tomorrow morning with a meeting with Rakesh's ex-doctor. Her insight, although compromised or not, will still prove valuable in the upcoming treatment.

He washed himself and went to his study. He was about to search for Mila Parker's number. When his phone rang, it was his mother.

"Hey, honey. It took you a while to answer ?"

"Sorry, Mom, I was taking a shower, "Ryan answered.

" How are you doing. It's been a long time since we last talked. Everything alright with you?

"Sure, Mom. You know you're my therapist. You'd be be first to know if it wasn't, " Ryan smiled.

"Hey ha-ha sure doctor . I'll send you the bill afterwards. How come you are home late? Did you finally find a girlfriend ?"

"Nope, sorry, Mom. Just meeting with a patient. Actually, a patient mother. "

"Mother, that's unusual. It must be an interesting patient for you to bother ."

"Yeah, it's weird, Mom. I might have a real Doctor Jekyll and Mr. Hyde case on my hands."

"Who? A small silence was heard as Ryan let his mother remember Stevenson's story." Ah, the guy who turns into a woman. You sure he's not just a transsexual, Ryan? Well, good luck curing that ha-ha ." His mother's healthy laughter at the other end of the line made Ryan smile.

"No, Mom, he isn't turning into a girl, but into another bigger man ."

"The hell. I don't get it."

At his mother's request, Ryan gave a brief summary of the day's events.

"Wait a minute, Lila Fergus. I heard of her. A yeah. The jewelry queen. I think I own some of her earrings." His mother's words confused Ryan.

"What jewelry?

" She is famous and owns a jewelry brand. She was even on the news a couple of years back. Her husband died and left her a big life insurance policy. Wait a minute, that guy seems dangerous. Are you sure you want to get involved with these people? It's not like you. I thought you liked boring couples therapy. "

Of course, his mother knew him better than himself. He didn't like too much drama, but if it weren't for the similarities between him and Rakesh, he would've refused Lila.

"Wait a minute, it's because it's similar to you. " It didn't take his mother much to figure out.

"Yes, by helping him, I find more about my own problems."

"Hmm, I don't like this Ryan. You got rid of your brother. It hasn't bothered you in years. Why put yourself through that? Ryan didn't like that his mother sounded concerned. He didn't want her to get worried; plus, referring to his other self as his brother still bothered him, even after all these years.

"It's not my brother, Mom, stop calling that thing my brother." Ryan nearly shouted.

"Whatever, we had this conversation again and again. He is part of you as much as you are part of him. I don't know much about psychology, but I know it' a mistake not to accept it ."

"C'mon, Mom, he is not real. You went to prison because of him. Dad left and never looked back. I don't need to remind you of that."

"Yeah, whatever, what was done was done, and it's still debatable who's real or not. I don't hate him, and you shouldn't either. Ryan couldn't understand how his mother could not hate him. But their relationship was complicated, even more complicated than that of Lila and her son. He couldn't remember what his other self's relationship with his Mom was, so he couldn't judge. He knew only what he did. He didn't know who he was.

"Okay, Mom, I don't want to argue again." Ryan took a deep breath.

"Yeah, me neither, plus that was not the reason I called. I need to borrow some money. I found this plastic surgeon. He's really famous. He recommended that I do my nose. "

"What, not again, Mom, another one?"

"Yeah, why not? It's not much. Just 300,000"

"It's not about the money. I am a doctor and know that these things are not healthy."

"It's the last one, I swear." Ryan was already picturing his mother crossing her fingers.

"Yeah, whatever. I will transfer into your usual account. You know I hate that I can't admire the work of art of the most renowned and expensive plastic surgeons in the world. " Ryan and she made the decision years ago that he shouldn't see his mother too often because it might trigger his other self to reappear. The last time they saw each other was 3 years ago when he finished medical school and took his license.

"Haha, I'll come visit, I promise haha. " She was still laughing and amused when he said goodbye to her.

Ryan's childhood was blurry. As in the case of Rakesh, many events were missing. He didn't remember the towns or friends where he grew up. His mother's relationship with him was also a psychotic mess. There is one thing he remembered and was very aware of, even in his childhood. It was the fact that she was beautiful. She wasn't that old that she would need anything done. She was a child mother. She and his father married each other when she was only 15 years old. Of course, his father was unaware of it. Only when she was 18 years old did she confess to him. When Ryan was a child, she worked as a model. However, it didn't last long. She wasn't the kind of woman to keep a steady job.

Ryan shook his head in an attempt to discard an annoying thought. Trying to understand his mother was an endeavor he had given up on a long time ago.

He was tired, but the day was not finished yet. He still had an important phone call to make. He searched on his phone and dialed Mila Parker's number.

After a while, he heard a woman's voice.

"Yes"

"Hello, my name is Doctor Ryan Lawson. Sorry to disturb you at this late hour. I am looking for Mila Parker regarding a patient ."

"This is her. What patient?

" I am Rakesh Fergus new doctor. I got your number from Lila Fergus. I was wondering if you are willing."

"No. I am not willing. Whatever this is, I suggest you drop the case and refrain from getting involved. Think of it as a friendly warning between colleagues."

" Yes, thank you for the warning, but I have already accepted the case. I was wondering if you're willing to work together with me on this case. Of course, I have Lila Fergus consent."

A long silence awaited Ryan for the next minute.

"Wait a minute. The Ryan Lawson!!! "Her voice nearly yelled on the phone. Wow, she came to you. I don't understand how she gave you her consent?"

"It means she told me everything about your complicated relationship with her and with her son. She decided to let go of past grievances because you made a lot of progress with her son and, at my request, wants you to work together with me and continue his treatment."

Again, a long silence was heard. Ryan was convinced that Mila Parker wanted to work with him. It meant a lot of benefits in every psychiatrist's resume to have worked with Ryan Lawson. However, she might still harbor resentment towards Lila and never agree. At the end, it was her decision to make, and Ryan was holding his breath.

"Okay, but if you know about her and me, why would you still want to work with me? .That leads me to the conclusion that she might've omitted some crucial facts about our complicated relationship."

"Then we should meet so you can have a chance to tell me your version of the events. " Ryan knew that it would be a lengthy conversation for it to be held on the phone.

" Then it's set. If she told everything, I am sure you would understand that I am a little **** to give too much information on the phone. I am free tomorrow morning."

"Very good, can you please bring every file you have on Rakesh. I even need to see his toxicology report."

"Everything? I will need a suitcase the size of a car. I performed every check-up possible for him, including an X-ray. Ultrasound and MRI. Not just the brain, but the entire body as well. Digestive system, nervous system. I will email some to you right now, but toxicology and hormones after our meeting ." Looks like she wasn't in a hurry to share Ashvin's files, but it's understandable considering what she knew about him. For every doctor, this will be the find of a century, and of course, she wanted front row seats to see his story unfold.

"I understand. I am looking forward to our meeting tomorrow, Miss Parker."

"Indeed, me too."

Ryan thought that it went better than previously expected. She was still a doctor after all. She was right; maybe her version of the facts was indeed different from that of Lila Fergus.

Ryan revised her emails. He browsed quickly through Rakesh's files in order to find something out of the ordinary. It was passed midnight before he finished. Mila Parker divided her files into Rakesh Fergus and Ashvin Fergus. However, Rakesh Fergus had some calcium and iron deficiency, Ashvin didn't. Ashvin was the embodiment of health. He had the heart rate and circulation of an elite athlete, while Rakesh had moderate asthma and couldn't handle prolonged effort. It seemed like that transformation was internal, as well. The more Ryan looked, the more differences he found between them. Well, at least their DNA didn't change. According to the charts, they were indeed the same person.

Feeling tired, he dropped his investigation and went to bed shortly after.

He dreamed of a thick forest where the sky was barely visible. He was ducking and jumping over what seemed like big wooden spikes. What were those? The same recurring dream every night. What was he doing?

Next day

At the meeting with Mila Parker, Ryan arrived early this time. He didn't go to his office; instead, he went directly to his meeting.

It was nearly empty in the Coffee shop when the door opened.

He saw a beautiful blonde entering the Coffee shop. He realized that her eyes stopped on him after glancing briefly in every direction. It can't be her, can it? Her knee-high miniskirt with a large décolletage was undoubtedly something that drew attention

She was tall, even taller than he by a few centimeters. The knee-high dress she wore accentuated her curves and highlighted a body that met the ideal beauty measurements of every man. Her doll face was surrounded by ear-length blonde hair. As she approached, Ryan noticed her charming smile. She did not exhibit the calm and reserved disposition of every psychiatrist; instead, she had the cheerful disposition of a young student. "

"Wow, the man himself. You look even younger than on the back of your book. So it's true that you wrote those books as a thesis in medical school?"

"Ryan Lawson, pleased to meet you? Ryan got up and shook her hand. He didn't respond to her question or her smile; instead, he used a cold tone. He was supposed to meet another doctor, not a fanboy.

"Mila Parker, pleasure to meet you as well. "She shook his hand. Ryan noticed her golden brown eyes studying him from head to toe—a professional habit, of course. Two therapists are trying to analyze each other. Ryan was sure that a battle was about to begin. As he was trying to get into her head, she would try to get into his. "So, do you really think that multiple personality disorder is just an extension of bipolar syndrome?"

"Hmm, no, it's more related to schizophrenia or an early stage of Alzheimer's. Memory loss is the problem, but, as always, it depends on the severity of the case."

"A willing Alzheimer's, more like it. "Mila scratched her chin. She was sitting in front of Ryan and moved her legs to the side, seemingly trying to find a more comfortable position. Her long legs were right in front, letting him have a glance at her lower butt and tights. "I wish that I could forget on command sometimes," she said with a melancholic tone.

"Your relationship with Ashvin is one of those things. "Her charming smile disappeared for a few seconds, but she quickly replaced it with another one.

"A, crap, jumping right in. Are we? No foreplay, nothing. Okay, if you like it like that, "She winked at Ryan ."I don't love him or anything, but he is a walking wonder."

Her response surprised Ryan. He truly believed it was like a love story—a forbidden patient-doctor romance.

"Well, I am not here to judge". Ryan felt like he needed to be more gentle ." She might get angry if accused of something," But you do realize he was your patient and was in your care."

Appealing to doctor-patient ethics seems to have done the job. Her demeanor became calmer and relaxed.

"So what, it's not like I did will harm him, but you're right, I should have terminated the contract and then dated him . ' She raised her shoulders to emphasize that she didn't care much.

"The fact that you dated a patient with multiple personalities will not harm him? Ryan was still curious about her reasoning.

She glanced at him, then she took a long breath. Ryan was sure her big breasts would pop out from her thigh décolletage as she did that.

"Where does it say that it's a multiple personality disorder. You took the diagnostic that I gave at the beginning, before I had all the data. Lila Fergus is not a psychiatrist, doctor; she will not decide what disease her son has. "

Her passive-aggressive behavior betrayed that she was indeed angry.

"Then what does he have? .It's pretty clear to me that there are two personas incorporated into the same body. Can Rakesh be faking?

"Not he is not faking it, but it's not multiple personality either. Something else entirely"

"Something else entirely?" Rayan couldn't believe that another doctor like him was saying those words". So, what are we talking about here? He is possessed. He needs an exorcist? C'mon, be serious."

She again took a deep breath.

"You don't need to be an ass. I know how it sounds. You only heard what she and Rakesh are telling you. You never saw Ashvin. Believe me, you will question everything too. "She was beginning to rant like a priest, and Ryan disliked that. She was a doctor and shouldn't jump to romantic conclusions.

" Ugh. I did see Ashvin."

"What? She was looking incredulous at him, and Ryan nodded. He appeared?"

"Yes, of course. I gave Rakesh Adiznal."

"What?. The **** from the Ayuasca extract? You **** him? "Seems like Mila wasn't used to this method and was surprised, but a hint of amusement was still visible. If she liked Ashvin, that meant a deep annoyance towards Rakesh—the man who was holding her partner away from meeting her.

"Yes, I used his mother as an obsessive target. Ashvin appeared immediately. I witnessed his instant progeria. That's the mystery that I want to clarify with you."

"Progeria?" Mila was shouting angrily this time. Her beautiful face twisted in an angry grimace." The rapid growth disease ?. When in hell did you see progeria coming and going and on an adult? C'mon, be serious and call it like it is."

"And what is? Ryan asked. "Turner disease. Acromegaly?. "

"Oh, for fuck sake. I didn't know that those were coming and going when the patient fell asleep. "

"Well, I can name quite a few things that cause a patient to grow in size rapidly."

"Sure, doctor, because that's how medicine works ." An amused one replaced Mila's angry grimace.

"Well, maybe a new affliction?" Ryan looked at her, hoping to get an angry reaction. But to his surprise, she didn't get defensive this time. This was proof that the thought crossed her mind.

"He is not sick. Let's call it what we don't know what it is. That is, if you want so bad to disbelieve him." Mila said in a calm voice.

"Are you serious. I want to disbelieve him so hard. So I take that you believe his story about the other realm."

"Of course, "Mila responded immediately. "I don't have anything else to go on. Well, until a better idea comes along ." She smiled at Ryan.

Ryan's brief encounter with her already made him think that she was a sarcastic and logical woman, yet she believed an 18-year-old fantasist about another realm. Something was definitely not adding up.

"I understand, "Ryan thought he would convince her quickly, but he immediately realized that it was useless. She was too deep in this, as Ashvin was her partner. Of course, everything he said was true to her. But Ryan hated people like this; just because you met something unknown didn't mean you should look for the most readily available explanation.

An awkward silence settled at their table as Ryan thought about how to approach her further.

"So, how do you want to proceed? We are working together on this, or what? Ryan said coldly.

"Well, sure I don't mind, partner, "she winked at Ryan," As for how I want to proceed. You see, unlike you, I had time to think about it. More tests, of course. Letting me interact with him and document it. It's the only way to gain more knowledge. I am still a doctor. Just because I believe him doesn't mean that I don't need more data. "Ryan was glad, and he breathed easily as he heard her. She was still rational in her thinking.

"Yes, I agree. I was thinking of monitoring him, but Miss Fergus disagrees with the clinic. By the way, I did promise Lila Fergus that you two can't continue your relationship."

"What? "An angry grimace appeared again on Mila's face." That bitch is still jealous. I tell you, she wants to fuck him herself. She wants to keep him to herself. She is his mother, but that is beyond me. I bet she ... "Mila interrupted herself and threw Ryan a weird look. "Whatever, you wouldn't understand."

"Miss Parker, I don't understand much about oriental practices, but Ashvin talked about a sex yoga. He was even saying that he trains you in this discipline. Is this true?"

"Ha, yeah," Mila winked again at Ryan, "you are looking at me like you want details about it. Usually, I don't have the habit of relating my sex endeavors to strangers. I will leave that part to your imaginations."

"Point taken ". Ryan was a bit disappointed, but he had to respect her wishes. "So I take it you will not respect her wishes and continue your affair with Ashvin?

A long shadow was projected onto Mila's beautiful face. Ryan again wondered what that was all about.

"How would you feel if I kept you from research that can change the world. I dislike that woman, but I also want to get this over with. I will try to keep my hands off Ashvin, but I can't promise anything on his part, ha, ha. I promised I won't give you details, but it's like he has a magic charm over me."

Ryan was curious to know how they had begun their relationship, but it seemed Mila wasn't in the mood to give details. He needed to earn her trust, and he would ask for further information.

"Returning to our partnership. I own a pharmaceutical company that also has a research facility. I suggest a series of tests, such as memory efficiency, followed by a comprehensive hormonal checkup. And why not ; a neural lie detection?"

"Wha.? What do you mean you have a pharmaceutical company? I heard you were rich ."Mila smiled and raised her shoulders in a dismissive manner. "Sure, I don't see why not?" Ryan was surprised that she agreed so quickly. Perhaps she has already done these tests.

"Then it's time to meet our test subject. "Ryan **** a smile, but he was still wary of Mila's reaction. Not many women would appreciate calling their boyfriends ; a test subject.

"Ha, ha, wait, where are we going?" Mila followed as Ryan got up from the table.

"We should meet Rakesh. I want to see the transformation again. I already announced to Lila Fergus that we might stop by today. Plus, I thought you would be excited to see him."

"Wait, I know, but I have other patients. I can't lose all day. "

"I will pay you as well, in addition to what Lila Fergus is paying you. I will even raise what she is paying you. I would also give free access to my company's labs. Ryan wanted to see this case through, and for that, he needed Mila Parker. He understood that he couldn't go on drugging Rakesh forever.

"What, really? " Mila inquired with big brown eyes. Ryan knew that she wasn't probably making much from couples of therapy sessions, and his proposition was more than enough to make up for the other patients.

"Yes, of course, how 10,000 a week sounds?"

"You serious? I don't make that in a year. By all means, Doctor Lawson, lead the way, ha-ha. " Mila was still laughing contentedly at the deal.

Mila followed Ryan to the parking lot. Together, they took Ryan's car towards the Fergus mansion.

As they were sitting in the car. He couldn't help but steal glances at Mila's long legs. Having such a beautiful woman with him was undoubtedly a source of trouble. If he got too excited, he had his own Ashvin to be concerned about. Mila pointed the way to the Fergus house, as she had been there before.

They arrived at what seemed like a small park, and behind it, a large shadow. As he was approaching it, that shadow slowly became a large mansion. This house was even bigger than his. Probably an 8-bedroom villa.

He got out of his car and pressed a small button next to the front gate. A lush garden with oriental trees and plants was between the gate and the imposing house. The front gate opened, and Ryan followed inside. He drove again for a short distance until he reached the villa's parking lot.

In front of the house, two marble elephants were guarding the stairs that led to the main entrance. Ryan noted that even the house resembled Lila's clothes. It was a mixture of Indian and Western at the same time.

The door opened, and Lila appeared in the doorway. Ryan hoped that she would avoid confronting Mila with him here. Probably a cat fight was about to start real soon as Lila threw a disgusting look at Mila's miniskirt.

" Is it too much to ask of you to wear decent clothes while doing your job. "

"Listen, woman, I wear what I like when I like it, understood. Plus, look one who's talking. Your cow breasts are about to fall out of that shirt. Mila took a menacing position and moved menacingly towards Lila.

"You stupid woman."

Ryan stepped between them and greeted Lila. He couldn't let the situation escalate.

"Thank you for letting me into your beautiful house, Miss Fergus. It's quite an interesting architecture."

"Welcome, Doctor Lawson. Please come in, " Lila nearly closed the door in Mila's face.

Ryan stepped into the significant corridor. Indian motifs and gods were depicted on the walls. They were certainly custom-made, as Ryan noted. I suppose Lila Fergus doesn't need to go to a temple, as her house already resembles one.

They passed the entrance hall and entered a big living room.

"Please have a seat. I suppose you will want to meet with Rakesh, but first, I want to know if everything we talked about yesterday was agreed upon."

Ryan and Mila sat next to each other on a large brown sofa, while Lila sat on a small Indian armchair.

"Yes indeed, Doctor Parker and I reached an agreement," Ryan said in a neutral voice.

"Don't worry, I won't touch your precious offspring for the time being, haha. "Mila faked a loud laugh.

"As for a treatment, do you think it is still possible?" Lila asked. She seemed tired and anxious. Struggling with her son for 4 years was beginning to take a toll on her.

"Woman, your son is not sick. First, we must eliminate Doctor Lawson's misconception, and then we listen to Ashvin's plan ."Mila crossed her legs on the couch and raised her head in a defiant manner.

"You idiot. Listen to what she is saying. How can you work with her doctor, Lawson? You know that I allowed you to be here because of him." Lila was so angry that her green eyes seemed to throw lightning bolts towards Mila.

"Miss Fergus, as much as I also want to disagree with her. I hate to say this, but we might have a new type of affliction. Multiple personality is not ruled out, but the hormones that are triggering the transformations in his body are something new."

"A new affliction?"

"More tests will determine the nature of the affliction. We will let you know, Miss Fergus. I understand it's difficult, but we can't rush these things. "

"I .. whatever. Lila looked worried at Ryan and Mila. I will call Rakesh."

Lila left, and after a while, she appeared accompanied by Rakesh. Unlike his mother, he seemed to be in a good mood and smiling. Ryan looked carefully at the young man. He was still astonished by how a body can undergo such a drastic transformation and remain okay.

" Hello, Doctor Lawson, Doctor Parker."

" Hey there, stranger. You could have called me from time to time. Mila smiled charmingly towards Rakesh and hugged him while Lila was observing their brief contact.

Ryan noticed that Mila had a different approach when dealing with her patients.

"Sorry, Dr. Parker. Mom wouldn't allow it," Rakesh said while looking sideways at his Mom.

"Hello Rakesh, ready for the test trip?" Ryan smiled towards Rakesh.

"Test trip? I don't understand."

" Yes. You and Dr. Parker will accompany me to my company's headquarters. Today, we will conduct light tests as I show Miss Parker around. I will make a plan with her for further tests.

"I understand, "Rakesh nodded, determined, and glanced towards Mila.

They said their goodbyes to Lila, who looked concerned. She didn't trust Mila, and Ryan couldn't provide her with an accurate assessment of Rakesh's condition. Ryan felt powerless seeing her like this, but he's not going to lose any more time.

Rakesh was sitting on the back sits of the car while Ryan and Mila were upfront. It was a one-hour drive to his company's research center.

"Rakesh, how do you feel? Yesterday, I was quite shocked when Ashvin appeared."

"Ha, yes, it happens to all who have met him." Rakesh laughed briefly.

"Do you feel something before or after your transformation, like intense pain or dizziness?"

"No. I feel fine."

"That's a mystery in itself. That pressure on the bones and muscles must cause excruciating pain ."

"Yeah, that's because it's Ashvin who becomes bigger. He takes the shock." Mila joined their conversation.

"He told you about this ?"

"Yes, he feels pain not only during the transformation but also during. He says he uses meditation to handle the pain. "

"So again we are supposed to trust him, "Ryan thought out loud.

"Is that something so hard to believe, Lawson. There is something beyond us that modern medicine can't explain. We don't even know how consciousness emerges from neural synapses. I don't get your complete distrust of Ashvin." Mila said, annoyed.

"I don't distrust him, but I don't trust him either. I am being neutral in this." Ryan said.

"Yes, how very infantile of you. Let's play word games. Just because we haven't discovered it yet doesn't mean it is not there. I am an atheist too, but when I don't know something, I admit it."

"Hm, a sane approach to have in life, but admitting you don't know something feels like a lazy surrender." Ryan needed her to question herself. These were Ashvin's ideas, anyhow. He remembered Lila's words, saying that she is a victim too." How does it work, really? His soul just moves to another body. Where does it go when he is not Rakesh? Ryan looked at Mila to see if she was annoyed by his question. She kept a straight face.

"I asked him that. He is meditating. He is not thinking, so he does not feel the passing of time."

"Not thinking? So we are supposed to believe him again. He seems like a cheap guru. Can anything he says be subject to proof?" Ryan was well aware that Mila might have followed Young or others who had a more metaphysical approach to psychology.

"You will see. If his transformation right before your eyes isn't proof enough, he still has a few tricks that will make you doubt your Freudian brain."

Their philosophical debate was cut short as Ryan arrived at his company headquarters.

Ryan showed Mila different parts of the factory and had her meet his research team, not before bringing her a doctor's robe to minimize the effects of her luscious curves on his employees. They were all experts, chemists and doctors who still maintained their practices while working for Ryan. Mila seemed to enjoy herself and even debated some of them while Ryan made sure that Rakesh wasn't bored.

"In the labs, we are going to conduct a few tests." I want to test you, for today and tomorrow we are going to do Ashvin."

"I understand." Despite his attention, Rakesh seemed annoyed and was playing on his phone.

Ryan decided that it was better not to waste time, as Rakesh was getting bored and his male employees were circling Mila like bees. It was not every day that Ryan brought them a female doctor with the body of a model.

"Okay, I will steal Doctor Parker from you."

"What, c'mon, boss, let her work here with us. She knows more chemistry than me. "A young chemist said. Even Ryan was surprised that Mila knew a lot about **** synthesis and dosage. Her knowledge definitely surpassed that of a common psychiatrist on the subject.

"No, I am afraid your work efficiency is going to decline with her here," Ryan said, smiling.

They all burst into laughter, fully aware of Ryan's innuendo.

"Okay, bye." Mila waved at them." They are all great. The bald guy has a 70 % on an Alzheimer's **** test. That's sick. You are fortunate to have them work with you. "

"Indeed, great and expensive. "Ryan said.

"Yeah, I bet. I don't understand anything about business. I even get bored looking at my monthly accounts. Bleah. Why are you even doing therapy when you have all this?"

"Well, without therapy, I wouldn't have all this," Ryan said quickly.

Mila looked at him sideways, not believing, but only Ryan knew the whole meaning of those words.

Ryan took Rakesh for his first series of tests. He underwent a full-body scan. Blood and tissue samples were collected. Ryan measured his body and did a neurological exam. Rakesh wanted to get better and was very cooperative. Ryan was sure that Ashvin would not be as collaborative as Rakesh. He needed Mila for that.

After subjecting Rakesh to all the necessary analyses, Ryan finally decided to let him go home.

"Remember, Rakesh, tomorrow you will come here. I will send a car for you in the morning ."

"See you tomorrow, Rakesh, " Mila waved at Rakesh as he was going inside the car.

They were left alone, looking at the back of the car as they walked back to the office. An eerie silence settled between the two as Ryan thought about how to plan everything for tomorrow.

"So, Doctor Parker, do you think you can make Ashvin appear tomorrow, or do I need Lila Fergus' hallucinogenic projection again?"

"Haha, I knew it. That's why you needed me, then. I was wondering why you went to all this trouble of getting me. It wasn't about the checkups or my medical expertise. You really do calculate everything. "Ryan was more than happy she was not offended. Of course, that might change along the way.

"Hmm, so how does it work exactly. I let you two alone in a room ."

" Yes, that's usually how it goes between men and women, haha". Mila teased Ryan.

"That begs for even more questions. How did it appear the first time?

Ryan and Mila reached the office, and Mila sat herself on the chair in front of the desk. This time, Ryan had a front view of her long legs.

"Okay, so I am in therapy now. Do I need to lie down? I know that there are many psychologists. All kinds of aromatherapists who take advantage of people's mental health problems. I really hate them all. Just because I believe Ashvin doesn't mean I am one of them. Just keep that in mind as I tell you the story."

About two years ago, Lila Fergus came to me with her son. She told me about his episodes. Like you, I was sure that it was some kind of psychosis that comes and goes. Double personality was the most plausible explanation. All with some sort of bipolar behavior. I was doubting their claims and was trying to figure out how to make Ashvin appear. Like you, I thought about it beforehand and dressed really seductively one day as Lila hinted in her stories.

If what she was wearing today was just considered regular clothes, Ryan was asking himself if the term seductive had another meaning to her.

"I started the session that day, making sexual innuendos. Asking Rakesh really intimate questions. Before you knew it, he started becoming red, and soon after, he began to transform.

I was astonished, as I am sure you were, yesterday. I didn't know what to do. How the hell am I supposed to understand something like this? Even Ashvin appeared confused. His English wasn't as good as it is today, but I managed to understand him.

He began by telling me about himself. He was very open about what he wanted. I took it as a joke at first, but he became more insistent. As he explained more, I realized that I hadn't understood anything, ha-ha. Anyway, I took him around and began enjoying his company. He seemed really fascinated, like a man discovering another world. One thing leads to another as we spend more time together. The rest you know. Lila found out and bla bla ."Mila raised her shoulders in an indifferent gesture. Like having an affair with her patient was the most common thing in the world.

Her story is a bit vague for Ryan's liking. He was expecting more intimate details from her, but it seems this was as much as he will get for now.

"Did he tell about the part about how he needs more than one woman for a certain practice?" Ryan was testing if she knew about his similar advancements towards Lila. He thought that jealous Mila was more prone to expose him.

"I told you that he was open about what he wanted. I know he also needs Lila as her partner. Hey, I was prone to a threesome before I got to know that woman's shity character. Ashvin told me that she had already practiced that kind of yoga since she was a kid. I understood that her family is not that simple either. They are all tantric practitioners. I'll let you in on a little clue. Why did he appear in her family ?"

" I don't care about her practices. She said she quit those practices when she married her husband. She sought psychiatric help for her son. She didn't go after an Indian exorcist. I admit that I don't know much about oriental mysticism, but you have to ask yourself. Why doesn't she believe him? "Mila was silent as she heard Ryan reasoning, "A woman who has strong cultural and religious beliefs in something doesn't go outside of those beliefs to look for answers. "

"Maybe she is just jealous of me, or what is asked of her is too much. In my opinion, she is the one who needs therapy. There is a lot more about her than meets the eye. Does she really look 40? Ashvin even warned me never to get her angry, but I sometimes can't help it. She is really annoying ."

"Hm, to be honest, I don't even care. I am paid to cure her son, not her. I know that things are connected. If she indeed still practices that yoga is just proof that this is indeed a double personality disorder. Rakesh witnessed those practices, and his subconscious was affected. Of course, if those practices involve sex or goat sacrifices. Lila will be **** to tell me or anyone else about it. "

Mill again fell into a silence. Ryan hoped that she would apply his reasoning to her own conviction, but he doubted as the yellow head of jealousy was involved.

"Well, never mind ". Mila seemed annoyed and thoughtful about something ".I will also be going. If Rakesh is not here, I don't see why you need me. Although we hold different views on this matter, maybe it's not so bad working with you on this. Don't worry, I will call a taxi. "

"Sure, see you tomorrow. "Ryan didn't need her anymore, but he hoped that she would help him with the Rakesh files. As Mila left, he was about to search all of Rakesh's files that he had gathered.

Ryan found that besides asthma, Rakesh also had calcium and iron deficiencies. The more he looked, he saw a slight decrease in blood pressure. He was anemic; all his data pointed to malnutrition.

He should ask Lila if he is eating properly. It was nothing serious, but it might lead to other problems in the future. His brain scan didn't show anything abnormal. Acromegaly can cause swelling in certain parts of the body, despite normal hormone levels. Ryan looked for clues for every disease that might be possible in his case.

He remembered Mila's words. That's not how medicine works.

Ryan had to admit that Rakesh's transformation was too symmetrical. Usually, with diseases like acromegaly and gigantism, the face and body are deformed. There were also steroids that increased the muscle mass, but not the bone structure.

He should leave everything for tomorrow. Ashvin's body was the one that would cast some light on this affliction, or not. Ryan was beginning to worry, but was also intrigued. Mila had done all these tests before, and she started to believe that a being from the past shared the body with a young man from our time. She was a doctor like himself and knew the human body to perfection, yet that mutation made her doubt modern medicine.

"Will I, too, change my mind ?". Ryan spoke out loud. He then shook his head, laughing."

" Hhaha. "Nope. Not even if Ashvin was making the ocean split in two right before his eyes, there must be a trick or a new undocumented affliction that was affecting Rakesh.

Finishing all data , Ryan decided it was time to go home . As he was driving towards home, he saw that Lila Fergus was calling him.

He put her on the car speakers.

"Yes, Miss Fergus."

"Doctor Lawson, sorry to disturb, but you must understand I was a little worried today. Can you talk? Is that woman .... I mean, Dr. Parker's still with you."

"No problem, Miss Fergus .No. We separated shortly after Rakesh left." Ryan maintained a neutral tone, although he was slightly amused.

" I understand. Did you find out anything ?"

"It's too soon, Miss Fergus. These things take time. I don't even have enough data to determine a diagnosis, let alone a treatment. I promise to let you know immediately as soon as I find anything conclusive.

"Again, I apologize. I was worried all day. "

"There is no need for an apology. Actually, I wanted to ask you something. Is Rakesh currently keeping a diet? Does he eat properly?"

"Yes, he eats. He is skinny, but he eats a lot. Why? Is there something wrong ? "

"No, nothing is wrong. Just routine check, " Ryan thought he should keep this to himself. The last thing he wanted was a mother who was not only concerned for her son's mental health but also his physical health.

"Okay, I won't bother you anymore. I apologize again. May you have a nice evening."

"You as well, miss Fergus."

Hm, having the attention of Lila Fergus. Ryan was surprised that it didn't bother him as much as it should. He actually liked it. Usually, he avoided clingy patients, but with Lila, everything was different.

Out of curiosity, and seeing that Lila Fergus piqued his interest so much, when he arrived home, Ryan searched the internet for everything he could find about her.

He read an article about her. Lila Fergus is a millionaire having a large fashion house and jewelry company. She was also a fashion designer and lawyer. That's a strange combination, Ryan thought. When her husband was alive, she did not practice law, and her activities were private. After his ****, she invested all her money into a fashion house. She later founded her own brand and was successful.

Ryan knew from his own experience that investing the money and just counting it at the end of the month was not enough. Having a business requires commitment and vision. Lila must've had those things if otherwise, investing would be synonymous with losing money.

Ryan also read about her husband's accident. There was indeed heavy rain that night, and the police found nothing out of the ordinary. The driver pleaded guilty and received a light sentence.

Hmm, he decided to search for her family back in India, but he couldn't find her maiden name anywhere on the internet. There was nothing about her life prior to her husband's ****.

Hmm, tomorrow he should learn more about her. Ryan knew from experience that all phobias start at home. Rakesh was undoubtedly influenced by something.