Small Story85.ABond Beyond Time.

Small Story 85 A Bond Beyond Time Ramanathan never expected to receive an invitation for his friend Somu’s daughter's wedding. Both Ramanathan and his wife Bhagyam were taken aback. They had worked together in the Railway Reservation Department for over two decades. Somu’s daughter, Rekha, had often stayed with them during holidays at their home in Trichy, near Srirangam. Somu had settled in Chennai, in Adyar, and his son Akil had grown up to be a cricket player, working at a multinational bank. Akil had even bought a good house for himself and his wife, who also worked at a reputed bank. Rekha, after her marriage, was planning to move to the U.S. The wedding was scheduled to take place in Chennai over a span of 10 days. Ramanathan’s only son worked at the Trichy Railway Station as the station master. Bhagyam was feeling a bit left out as she spoke to Ramanathan one day: "Don't expect an invitation. Your friend has forgotten us. Rekha is going to the U.S. and becoming more successful. We are nothing compared to them." She reminisced about when Rekha had visited two years ago with her mum Ambujam, and how they had stayed for two days and visited temples. A few days later, Ramanathan was watching the news at 7 pm when the doorbell rang. His son, Govind, opened the door and was surprised to see Somu and Aunt Ambujam. They greeted each other warmly. "Ramanathan, how are you?" Somu asked. "I wanted to surprise you all. I've come to invite you to Rekha’s wedding. I’ll be staying here tonight, and tomorrow we leave for Chennai. I’ve booked hotel accommodation near the wedding hall. I’ve also arranged for someone to drive you to Chennai in their car. After the wedding, you can travel back to Srirangam with him. He’s another close friend of mine from Chennai, now settled in Thillainagar, Trichy. He’s a retired high-court advocate." That night, they reminisced for over an hour, talking about the old days and their fond memories. The next morning, Somu and Ambujam left, but Bhagyam and Ramanathan felt a deep sense of warmth and appreciation for the friendship that had stood the test of time. True friendship cannot be underestimated, and Somu’s gesture was a perfect example of how deep and lasting bonds can bring joy even in unexpected moments K.Ragavan 22-11-24