Small Story 358.

Small Story 358. Unexpected Happiness at the Wedding Anand was delighted to receive his friend Vasu's wedding message.He decided to attend the ceremony in Shimoga the following week, along with his wife Pallavi. Vasu and Anand had been close friends and college mates. During college, Vasu had a soft corner for Nandhini, but he couldn’t pursue the relationship further, as her parents had arranged her marriage with a relative soon after her graduation. That wedding had also taken place in Shimoga. On the day of Vasu’s wedding, Anand and Pallavi arrived at the wedding hall. To Anand’s surprise, he saw Nandhini’s parents there, smiling warmly as they greeted guests. He assumed they were attending as family friends. While having breakfast, Anand saw Nandhini walking out from the inner room. She greeted Anand and Pallavi pleasantly, which further confused him. When the wedding ceremony began, Anand and Pallavi were utterly astonished to see both Vasu and Nandhini sitting together as bride and groom on the wedding stage adorned with sandalwood decorations. After the wedding, Anand congratulated the couple and couldn’t help but ask Vasu about the unexpected twist. Vasu whispered, “I didn’t mention this earlier because I wanted to keep you in suspense. Nandhini’s husband Ramu tragically passed away in a road accident some time ago. With time, my parents spoke to hers, and eventually, they agreed to our marriage.” Anand was deeply moved. He applauded the couple for their courage and maturity. Their union was not only a moment of personal joy but also a strong message to society about second chances and open-mindedness. K.Ragavan 4-9-25