Small Story 341.

Small Story 341 The Unexpected Twist Shubhasini reached the station to receive her old college friend, Rakesh. Seeing her, Rakesh’s face lit up with joy, and he warmly hugged her. They had studied together for three years in India and later spent two more years in Singapore pursuing their education. However, life had taken them to different places — Shubhasini settled in Chennai, while Rakesh moved to Singapore. His parents, meanwhile, lived in Bengaluru. As they drove from the station, Shubhasini asked, “How are you and your family, Rakesh?” Both had harbored feelings for each other during their college days. They liked each other deeply, but due to family pressures, they couldn’t be together. “My wife,” Rakesh began, “was a relative of my mother. I had to marry her because of a promise my mother made to her family. Your letter reached me… just a little too late.” Shubhasini nodded with understanding. “I can understand. Still, I could never erase my memories with you. I’ve always continued to cherish them.” “I appreciate your strength, Shubhasini,” Rakesh replied gently. “A year ago, my wife passed away due to a brain tumor. This trip… I wanted to see you again, and meet your husband too.” By then, they had reached Shubhasini’s home in Adyar. Her parents greeted Rakesh warmly, offering him coffee and snacks. After listening to his story, her parents exchanged glances, and then her father said: “Even now, it’s not too late. You’re both free. If you still care for each other, we have no objection.” Rakesh looked at them in surprise, a hopeful smile forming. It felt like divine intervention — fate had reunited them, just when he least expected it. A month later, in a simple ceremony, Shubhasini and Rakesh got married. She soon migrated to Singapore with him — this time, not just as an old friend, but as his life partner. K.Ragavan 18-8-25