Small Story 245.

Small Story 245. "A Mango of Memories" After returning from his usual walk, Ram was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by Mani, a friend he had met at a recent Facebook social get-together. "Ram, your speech that day was really impressive," Mani said warmly. "We should plan such meetings every three months." Ram nodded. "Yes, that would be wonderful. But people are scattered all over the city, and conveyance remains a challenge—even with Metro connectivity. The city has expanded nearly 60 kilometers now." With a smile, Mani offered, "How about a coffee?" "Thanks, but I just had my favorite tea with our usual group," Ram replied. Mani continued, "Do you remember my brother-in-law Shankar from Vijayawada? He was at the meeting and asked about you and your family. He really liked your speech and even noted down your address." "Thank you, that's very kind," Ram said, and soon after, he parted ways with Mani and headed to his apartment. As he stepped into the hall, his wife Shubhashini greeted him with a teasing smile. "Can you guess what that smell is?" "Mangoes?" he asked, sniffing the sweet aroma. "Yes!" she laughed. "Just ten minutes ago, a relative of your friend Shankar dropped off ten big mangoes and this note." Ram opened the chit and read aloud: "Mangoes are a token of my affection. Your story is above all. Regards to all your family members. – Shankar, Vijayawada." These were mangoes from Shankar’s own garden—famous in his region. Touched by the unexpected gesture, Ram felt tears well up in his eyes. "Our group of friends truly is amazing," he whispered. "Yes, they are," Shubhashini agreed, her voice soft with emotion. "Beyond anything else." K.Ragavan 14-5-25