Small Story 174.

Small Story 174 Two Months of Silence, A Surprise Reunion Anusuya arrived at the Madurai UC High School bus stand, looking for her old friend Sathya. Within two minutes, Sathya appeared and greeted her warmly. Both decided to visit the familiar College House hotel for breakfast. At mid-40s, both women looked graceful, their dignified appearance reflecting their cultured upbringing. While enjoying their dosai, Sathya asked, “How’s your son, Anusuya?” “He’s fine, but I haven’t heard from him for the past two months,” Anusuya replied. Her son, Vikas, had gone to Australia for further studies, completed his course, joined a company, and started working. Yet, she hadn’t received any communication from him for two months. Sathya sighed, “Same here. My daughter Ahila, no communication from her in Singapore. My husband is getting worried.” Just then, Sathya’s phone rang. It was her husband, Murali, calling. “Hey, today evening my mummy is coming from Tirunelveli When you’re coming home, pick up some sweets, okay?” Sathya responded, and the call ended. Both women had been childhood friends for over thirty years and understood each other well. After breakfast, they went to buy sweets, and Sathya gave a packet to Anusuya. Minutes later, they parted ways and went to their respective homes. Sathya arrived home in SS Colony, and to her surprise, her daughter, Akhila, was there to greet her. A few minutes later, her mother-in-law, Ambujam, arrived from Tirunelveli. The house was filled with happiness, but also with some suspense. Ambujam started, “My loving granddaughter had a crush on your friend Anusuya’s son Arun when she visited Sydney for an official tour. They’ve decided to marry with our permission and are coming to India to announce it as a surprise!” Just then, Arun called Ambujam. “Hello, Grandma! Thank you, you’re the architect of my union with Akhila.” Both families were overjoyed, although the two-month silence from the kids had left everyone in suspense. Arun had always been fond of Ambujam since childhood and had obeyed her wishes. Now, he was ready to marry Akhila, as Ambujam had advised. A month later, the wedding was celebrated in grand style at Lakshmisundaran Hall, with renowned music director Ilaiyaraaja providing the music. The wedding was a joyous occasion for both families, ending the two-month period of silence with a wonderful union. K.Ragavan 4-3-25