Small Story 139.The Deserving Pair.

Small Story 139. The Deserving Pair Ramu visited his dad’s friend Vishnu’s house, where he was warmly greeted and offered tea and pakodas by Vishnu’s wife, Lakshmi. As he enjoyed the treat, he couldn’t help but look around, hoping to see Mridula. But there was no sign of her. Vishnu, sensing Ramu’s curiosity, asked, “So, what brings you here at this hour?” “I’ve sent my application for the Training Officer position at your firm,” Ramu replied. “Dad asked me to speak with you, as your word holds weight. He would really appreciate your recommendation.” Vishnu nodded thoughtfully. “I see. You know, Mridula asked me to put in a word for her too. I was planning to meet the CEO later today.” “Oh, in that case, Uncle, you recommend her,” Ramu said quickly, not wanting to impose. “I’ll make a move now.” That evening, Ramu received a call from Mridula. “Hey, you could have waited for me,” she said softly. “I never knew you wanted it. Dad got me the job. He thought it was a great opportunity—good position, good company, great package.” Ramu’s heart sank. They were classmates, and he had always dreamed of marrying Mridula after they both found stable careers. But now, she had landed the job through her father’s recommendation. “Don’t worry, dear,” Ramu said, his voice steady but full of emotion. “If our love is genuine and sincere, somehow, I’ll find my way.” He hung up, trying to calm his nerves. The next day, Ramu headed to a club to play carom, a game he was skilled at. There, he was greeted warmly by friends, including Somu, a fellow carom enthusiast. Somu had a good news for him. “I’m leaving for the US next Sunday to join Google as a Project Head in a new division,” Somu said. “The management here likes me, and they asked me to recommend someone who can deliver. You’re a perfect fit, Ramu. I’ll put in a word for you.” Somu’s words filled Ramu with hope, and he agreed to meet Somu the next day. He didn’t want to tell his parents just yet, choosing to keep it a secret until the outcome was certain. The following day, Ramu visited the office Somu had mentioned. Somu greeted him and took him to the third floor, where the Director, Mr. Swamy, awaited them. After a brief discussion and a review of Ramu’s credentials, Mr. Swamy smiled. “You’re a deserving candidate for this position. I’m pleased to offer you the job.” Within 15 minutes, Ramu was thrilled to receive an appointment letter. “Today is an auspicious day,” Swamy said. “You can start tomorrow. If your previous company requires you to serve a notice period, don’t worry; we’ll take care of it.” Ramu’s eyes filled with tears. “Somu, you’re amazing. I never expected this.” Somu smiled. “You deserve it, Ramu.” As they walked through the office, Ramu was thrilled to see Mridula sitting at her desk. She whispered, “Ramu, come here.” He introduced Somu to Mridula, and she, too, was amazed. Both Ramu and Mridula had landed their dream jobs, thanks to the unassuming friend, Somu. Somu promised to attend their wedding when it happened. “Take your time,” he said. “You deserve to enjoy your success first.” A year later, Somu kept his promise and attended Ramu and Mridula’s wedding, which was a grand affair with a special performance by the famous singer Shreya Ghosal. Ramu and Mridula’s love, coupled with Somu’s selfless support, had led them to a happy, successful future. K.Ragavan 28-1-25