Small Story 279.

--- Small Story 279 "A Transfer of Fate" After serving three years at the Dindigul branch of his bank, Karthik was transferred on promotion to the Theni branch. A bachelor, Karthik’s parents—Arumugam and Lakshmi—were settled in Karaikudi. His father was proud of the promotion, while his mother was already thinking about finding a suitable bride for her son. Karthik had once had a crush on a college mate named Sowmya, but they had lost touch after graduation. Recently, through friends, he had heard that she too had joined a bank. Theni, a busy business center, offered good housing. Karthik managed to rent a modest two-bedroom house conveniently close to the bank. After settling in, he reported to the branch and was warmly welcomed by the ten staff members. The manager was yet to arrive. Within a week, Karthik became well-acquainted with his duties and earned the goodwill of his colleagues. One day, his mother called from Karaikudi and insisted he come to Madurai to meet a girl whose photo she had liked. Karthik, not too keen on marriage at the moment, declined, saying he couldn’t take leave so soon after his transfer. The next day, the new branch manager arrived—a lady. The staff welcomed her warmly. Karthik, who had gone out for an inspection, returned later and entered her cabin to introduce himself. To his surprise, it was Sowmya—his college crush. “Hey, you? How are you?” she exclaimed, equally surprised. “Good! I was transferred from Dindigul. Happy to see you again after so many years,” he replied. “Please, have a seat,” she smiled. They spoke briefly, reminiscing about college days before returning to work. That evening, Sowmya invited Karthik to her home. He found her house pleasant and enjoyed the sweets she offered. During the conversation, she casually mentioned that her parents had received a good horoscope match for her and were considering a proposal. She had told them she would agree only if she liked the boy. What she didn’t know was that Karthik had once liked her deeply—and still did. The next day, Karthik received a courier from his mother. When he opened it, he was stunned—the girl in the photo was none other than Sowmya. Excited, he met Sowmya the following day and told her. She was equally surprised and delighted. “I never imagined my old friend would become my life partner!” she said with a smile. Indeed, Karthik’s feelings had been blessed by fate. A month later, their wedding was celebrated grandly in Madurai. The transfer had brought more than just a promotion—it had brought him love, and a new chapter in life. K.Ragavan 17-6-25