Small Story 197.

Small Story 197. Three Years of Repayment Misery Murthy never expected his close friend Vasanth would fail to return the money he had borrowed two years ago for his wife’s medical expenses. Vasanth had promised that once he received a loan from his company, he would repay the amount. But more than two years had passed, and Murthy had yet to see the money. Vasanth was retiring next month, and the sum of 50,000 rupees was a significant amount for Murthy, especially since he had already retired and wasn’t receiving a pension. Murthy's only son, Ravi, worked as a manager at a leading bank and earned a good salary, helping his father whenever possible. Murthy hesitated to ask Vasanth about when he would return the money. A year ago, Ravi had met with Vasanth and requested the 50,000 rupees on Murthy's behalf, assuring him that the money would be repaid within a year. Ravi also promised to assist Vasanth with his overseas employment trip. One year later, Ravi returned the 50,000 rupees to Vasanth and thanked him for his timely help. Though it had been three years since Murthy lent the money to Vasanth, he decided to ask him about it the next day. However, the following day, when Murthy tried calling Vasanth, he got no response and started to worry. After an hour, Vasanth showed up at Murthy’s house, handed him the money, and thanked him for his assistance. Murthy offered tea and snacks, feeling embarrassed about having to ask for the money over the phone. It turned out that Vasanth’s phone had run out of battery and he had to charge it. Vasanth didn’t mention anything about the help that Ravi and he had given each other. He only nodded and said, “Murthy, you are a real gentleman. When I told you I would return the money after three years, you agreed and helped me. I’ll never forget that.” His eyes welled up with tears, and Murthy felt guilty for having forgotten the promise made three years ago. The money had been returned, but the true value lay in the bond of trust and kindness that had endured throughout. K.Ragavan 27-3-25