Small Story 226.

Small Story 226.: A Tail of Love – Two Cute Kids, One Big Heart After reading the newspaper one calm morning, Mukund found himself lost in a sea of childhood memories, thinking fondly of his best friend Somu. Their bond, forged over five decades, began in Madurai and later continued in Chennai. They were the same age, shared the best and worst times, and their families were as close as their friendship. Mukund eventually settled in the Chockikulam area of Madurai, now a developed and bustling neighborhood, while Somu remained in his ancestral home in Tambaram. Despite the distance, daily phone calls and messages kept their friendship alive and vibrant. Mukund’s daughter, Vasanthy, and Somu’s daughter, Janaki, mirrored their fathers’ friendship. Though fate had not blessed them with children of their own, both families took solace in saying, “We are blessed in every way; the rest is God’s will.” Vasanthy lived with her husband Suresh in Bengaluru, while Janaki had made a home in Singapore. Every year, Janaki visited India and always made time to meet her childhood friend, Vasanthy. One fine evening, Vasanthy ran into an old college friend, Ranjitha, at the popular Shivsagar restaurant. They reminisced about the good old days, laughing over memories and moments. After a warm chat, Ranjitha gently asked, “How is life treating you?” With a calm smile, Vasanthy replied, “God has given me everything I need. And if He has decided I should not have a child, I’ve made peace with that too.” Ranjitha admired her strength. “Accepting reality with grace is a gift. But I do have a suggestion—something to bring joy and purpose to your days, if you're open to it.” Vasanthy leaned in with curiosity. “Tell me more.” “These days, adoption—both of children and pets—is common. But here's something unique. My boss’s friend in Mysore has two beautiful puppies—different breeds, both adorable. He’s looking to give them to families who long for a child, and who will raise them like their own.” Intrigued, Vasanthy nodded. “That sounds wonderful.” “Come to my house in Mysore this Sunday,” Ranjitha said. “We’ll go together.” Vasanthy discussed the idea with her husband, Suresh, and he wholeheartedly supported it. That Sunday, the couple arrived at Ranjitha’s home. She took them to her friend Nivedha’s house—a kind-hearted psychiatrist, married to a well-known advocate. The couple welcomed them warmly, already briefed by Ranjitha. When Vasanthy laid eyes on the three-month-old puppy named Prince, her heart melted. But it was Charles, the other puppy, who caught her affection. “Vasanthy, could we give Charles to Janaki?” asked Nivedha gently. “He’ll have a loving home in Singapore. Raise them both with love—just don’t let distance or difference come between them.” Vasanthy’s eyes welled with tears. She hugged the little pups close and whispered a soft thank you. Grateful beyond words, she visited Ranjitha’s academy and personally thanked her boss for the kindness of his friend. In the end, Prince found his home in Bengaluru, and Charles flew to Singapore. Two puppies, two families, and one beautiful journey of love—proving that family isn’t always born, but sometimes found. K.Ragavan 25-4-25 --