Small Story 151.

Small Story 151. A Change of Heart Subbaraman and Kothandaraman, both working in the same office, were quite different in nature. Subbaraman was a man of trust, believing in everyone he met. On the other hand, Kothandaraman was a skeptic who questioned everything and only believed after deep analysis. Despite their differences, they shared one thing in common: their fondness for chatting during their afternoon lunch breaks. Their office had provided them a small private room to enjoy their lunch hour, a gesture of appreciation for their senior positions. As usual, on one particular day, their conversation took an interesting turn. Kothandaraman started the chat with a concern about his daughter, Nandhini, who had received an offer from a British company. “I’m not sure about it,” he said. “The economic policies and racism issues bother me.” Subbaraman, ever optimistic, reassured him. “Don’t worry. If she’s got a good offer, she should take it. My nephew has been in London for ten years and is doing well.” Their conversation shifted to real estate as Kothandaraman mentioned the idea of buying a site in the prime location of Bhanashankari. Subbaraman expressed his concerns about the authenticity of the site’s documents, with scams frequently making the news. "I’m happy with my rented apartment in JPNagar," he said, expressing his cautious nature. As the lunch break ended, Kothandaraman and Subbaraman parted ways. Kothandaraman mentioned he would be visiting an old friend in a different direction. Subbaraman, already in his car, drove away while Kothandaraman took an auto home. When Kothandaraman arrived, his wife, Shobha, greeted him with a cup of his favorite coffee. “Thank you, dear. Where is Nandhini?” he asked. “She’s gone to see a friend,” Shobha replied. Later that evening, Nandhini returned with her friend, Hari. She introduced him as her colleague, who had also received an offer from the British firm. “I’ve decided to join too,” she said. Kothandaraman’s suspicions flared. He thought the two might marry and move to London, but Hari quickly reassured him. “Sir, I come from a respectable family. I’m married, and my wife will join me. Nandhini is not just my good friend; she’s like my sister. We plan to stay together and live according to our traditions. My father is a Purohit, and we are attached to a temple near Jayanagar, where your friend Subbaraman lives.” Kothandaraman, initially skeptical, now began to see things differently. Hari’s words about family, tradition, and respect made him realize that his constant suspicion of others wasn’t always correct. Not everyone takes advantage of others; most people, in fact, are genuine and respectful. “Okay, Hari,” Kothandaraman said with a smile. “Since you’re close to Subbaraman, who is a good friend of mine, I endorse your decision to stay with Nandhini. I trust you.” Hari was grateful. “Thank you, sir. You are a good person. I’m glad you realized that judging people too harshly can sometimes be a mistake.” As Hari left, Kothandaraman turned to his wife, Shobha, who smiled and said, “You are a good man. I’m proud of you.” And in that moment, Kothandaraman understood that the true nature of a good human being lies in understanding others and changing one’s perspective when needed. K.Ragavan 9-2-25