Small story 51.Be Cautious

Small Story 51 Be Cautious . Sophia stood outside the newly opened Emirate Mall in Dubai, marveling at the vibrant energy of the bustling city. She had dreamed of visiting for years, but life had taken unexpected turns. After losing her husband to a sudden heart attack, she finally found the strength to embark on this journey alone. As she wandered through the mall's beautiful shops, a sense of excitement filled her heart. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee drew her to a cozy café, where she ordered a rich chocolate-flavored drink. Moments later, a young man named Rahul approached her table. “Hey, I’m Rahul. I work here,” he said with a friendly smile. “I’m Sophia, visiting from the U.S.,” she replied, feeling a flicker of connection. “Nice! Dubai is the talk of the place today,” he continued. They chatted about the city, and when Rahul invited her to lunch, she hesitated. Her father’s voice echoed in her mind: “Always be cautious with strangers.” “Thank you, but I have to move on,” she said politely, choosing to trust her instincts. After exploring the mall, Sophia stepped outside to the lively streets. The energy was palpable, but suddenly, the atmosphere shifted. A commotion drew her attention—a crowd had gathered around police officers who were apprehending a man for fraud. Her heart sank as she recognized Rahul among those being arrested. Shock washed over her; the friendly face she had just met was now entangled in a web of deceit. Reflecting on her father’s wisdom, she felt a surge of gratitude. He had taught her the importance of discernment and self-reliance. After a week filled with new experiences and fond memories, Sophia boarded her flight back to the U.S. with a renewed sense of strength, ready to embrace life’s challenges ahead. K.Ragavan 19-10-24