Small Story72. Lost Love

Small Story 72.Lost Love Postman Ponnuswamy was making his third visit to the house at Doorbell No. 32, but once again, there was no response from the owner, Parvathy. He was supposed to deliver a money order worth 1,000 rupees, sent by her grandson from Shencottah. He had already come twice that day, but there was no one home. Frustrated, he decided to wait a little while and try again. Just then, Parvathi, returned home. "Sorry, Postman. I went to visit my friend's father, who is suffering from several ailments," she explained. "No problem, madam," said Ponnuswamy, handing her the money order. "This is from your grandson, Anush." "Thank you," Parvathi replied. "I’ll prepare some coffee for you. Please have some before you leave." "No, madam, I must be on my way," he said, and he quickly left for his branch. After he left, Parvathi placed the money order in front of the family deity. "God, Anush has been sending me money every month for my expenses, and I’m grateful to you for this. My pension from my late husband and Anush's money are enough for me." Her husband had worked in the state warehouse and passed away five years ago. Parvathi’s only daughter and her family lived in Shencottah. Her son-in-law, , worked in a private bank. Their son, Dhanush, a bachelor, was uninterested in marriage, despite having a diploma in mechanical engineering and a job at the same bank. Parvathi called her daughter,Shobha to inform her that the money from Dhanush had arrived. Shobha, along with her husband, had gone to visit a friend’s place, where they met Revathy, the friend's daughter. Revathy had graduated from Tirunelveli College and was not only beautiful but well-mannered. Shobha was immediately impressed and thought she would be the perfect match for Dhanush. She decided that this time, she would convince him to reconsider his decision not to marry. After a casual conversation, Shobha showed Revathy a photo of Dhanush and suggested that he would be a good match for her. Revathy was also impressed by the picture. She spoke with her mother, and they agreed to move forward with the proposal. Shobha’s friend, Ragini, was also taken by the photo and suggested that Revathy’s horoscope be matched with Dhanush’s. After a thorough analysis by an astrologer, it was confirmed that the horoscopes were compatible. Shobha was thrilled to hear that everything was aligned. A week later, Dhanush accompanied his parents to meet Revathy in person. After they had a meal together, Dhanush requested a private conversation with Revathy. Ragini suggested that they speak in a nearby room, and the two of them stepped inside. "I have something to confess," Revathy began. In last meeting I told you this in a playful way, I’ve actually been engaged to someone else. I wanted to see your reaction." Dhanush was stunned. "What do you mean?" he asked, feeling confused. "I was transferred to Chennai 18 months ago," Revathy continued. "Before that, I lost my old mobile and all the contact details, including your number and email. Over the past 18 months, I have been praying to Nellaiappar, hoping for a reunion with you. I was sure our love would eventually end in marriage." Tears of joy welled up in Revathy’s eyes. "I know you're from this place, Dhanush. One day, we would meet again." Dhanush, realizing his mistake, embraced her. "I am so sorry. You’re my schoolmate, and our love has lasted for more than a decade. Your prayers to Nellaiappar have been answered." Their love story culminated in a beautiful wedding, blessed by Parvathi and the whole family. K.Ragavan 9-11-24