Small Story 254.

Small Story 254 "The Seat of Luck" Smitha boarded the bus to Shimoga and settled into her reserved seat. The seat next to her was vacant. Just five minutes before departure, a well-mannered lady appeared and stood nearby, looking for a place to sit. The conductor approached, asking to see her ticket. “I couldn’t get a reservation at the last minute,” she explained politely. “Can you find me a seat?” The conductor replied, “This seat is reserved. The passenger might show up any time.” Smitha observed the lady with empathy. She looked decent and composed, and it was clear she was in need of help. The bus engine started. The conductor signaled the driver to move. “But what if the original passenger comes?” he asked the lady. “I’m confident they won’t,” she replied with a smile. The conductor allowed her to sit beside Smitha. Twenty kilometers passed, and no one came to claim the seat. The journey continued peacefully. Smitha broke the silence. “Hi, I’m Smitha. I’m heading to Shimoga for a friend’s wedding.” The lady smiled. “I’m Mohini. I’m visiting a friend and also hoping to secure a seat in a medical college there.” “Best of luck,” Smitha said. “If you’ve got good credentials, you’ll surely get in.” As the bus moved on, they exchanged sweets and chocolates and chatted pleasantly. Upon reaching Shimoga, they parted ways. The next day, Mohini walked into the medical college with her documents. After verifying them, the staff directed her to the selection committee. To her shock, when she entered the room, she saw Smitha sitting at the panel. Smitha recognized her immediately. “Your credentials are good,” she said. “My part of the review is done. The final selection will be made by the chief.” Mohini sat nervously, praying for good news. Ten minutes later, a man in his mid-50s entered and greeted Smitha. “Sorry, I missed the bus yesterday and had to take a taxi,” he said. Mohini instantly understood—this was the man who had reserved the seat on the bus. Because he missed it, she had the chance to sit there. The chief reviewed Mohini’s records and approved her admission. After he left, Smitha smiled and said, “Looks like you got lucky twice. First his seat on the bus, and now his approval for your college seat.” Mohini whispered gratefully, “I’m truly blessed to get admission into this college. K.Ragavan 23-5-25