Small Story 412

Small Story 412. Beauty Is Not Permanent Fredrick settled into his seat and tightened his seatbelt. He was returning to Bengaluru after visiting his daughter in Germany. At seventy, he was still tall and good-looking. A young man soon came and sat beside him. As the plane took off, the young man smiled and said, “I’m Sathish from Bengaluru. I’m returning home after finishing my training in an automobile firm.” Fredrick smiled back. “I’m Fredrick. I used to work in a media company in their technical department and later shifted to cinematography. I retired three years ago and now live in Bengaluru.” After a few minutes, Sathish said, “I love films with good concepts and strong technical aspects—no matter the language. My favourite person is the handsome Fredrick Stafford. I really admire his cinematography in the old movie Suspense Behind the Theft and his charming personality.” Fredrick whispered, “Good to know that you like movies with a technical side. But tell me, do you like only handsome personalities on screen?” “Yes,” Sathish said with a grin. “I like handsome heroes.” Fredrick nodded. “Many actors look handsome on screen, but over the decades, as they grow old, that handsomeness fades.” Sathish looked surprised. “I saw Fredrick Stafford’s photo in Time magazine.” He showed the picture on his phone. Fredrick smiled softly. “Yes, that’s a good-looking picture—but it was taken ten years ago. Nobody remains beautiful forever.” Sathish blinked in disbelief. “I can’t believe it!” Fredrick chuckled. “Look, my dear young man—the picture you showed me is of me, taken ten years back. And you see me today. I am Fredrick Stafford, the award-winning cinematographer.” Sathish was stunned. “Is it really you, sir?” “Yes,” Fredrick said kindly. “Beauty is not permanent. As age advances, it fades. Your beauty too will vanish one day.” Sathish sat silently, realizing the truth in his words. The next day, they parted ways—one man wiser, having learned that beauty may fade, but wisdom and talent endure forever KRagavan 28-10-25.