Small Story 288.

Small Story 288: Honesty That Sparked a New Bond Swamy had recently joined a leading marketing company as Chief Accountant, having accepted the role after serving for 26 years in his previous organization. At 52, Swamy felt fortunate to have secured such a reputable position with excellent benefits, especially after the management at his old firm had changed hands. One morning, Swamy was unexpectedly called to meet the Managing Director. To his surprise, a young woman was seated in the MD's chair. She greeted him warmly and offered him tea. "From today, I’ll be leading the company," she said with a confident smile. "My father is retiring and settling down in Australia with my brother. I’m Vasanthy." "Welcome, Madam," Swamy replied respectfully. "No madam—just Vasanthy," she insisted. "I’ve heard a lot about you. My father says you're one of the most capable accountants in the city." Swamy whispered a humble, “Thank you,” touched by the appreciation. Back in his cabin, he reflected on his journey. A gold medalist in Chartered Accountancy, Swamy had always believed in honesty and hard work. His only son, Arjun, was a successful architect who had chosen to stay in India despite opportunities abroad. That evening, as Swamy stepped out, Vasanthy was waiting. “Where do you stay, Mr. Swamy?” "JP Nagar,” he replied. “I’m headed that way. Let me drop you.” Swamy accepted, and they soon arrived at his independent house. He invited her in for tea. His wife, Pankajam, offered sweets and was pleasantly surprised by the respectful nature of her husband’s young boss. While sipping tea, Vasanthy noticed a photo of a young man. “Who’s that?” she asked. “My son, Arjun—the architect.” Vasanthy paused, her eyes lighting up. Two years ago, she had dropped her wallet in a theater while watching a Rajkumar film. A young man had found it and called the number inside. She had asked him to meet her in the parking lot to return it. He had politely declined her offer to come home, citing urgent work. That man was Arjun. She had been secretly impressed by his modesty and honesty ever since. A few days later, Vasanthy’s parents—her father and mother Padma—visited Swamy’s home with a marriage proposal. Pankajam was thrilled. Vasanthy’s father shared how he had been impressed by Swamy during the interview and later touched by Arjun’s integrity when he returned the wallet without expecting anything in return. Swamy felt proud of his son’s character and values. The wedding was celebrated grandly, uniting two families not just through marriage, but through mutual respect and shared principles. Soon after, Vasanthy’s parents left for Australia, comforted by the knowledge that both their daughter’s future and the company were in responsible hands. K.Ragavan 26-6-25