Small Story 511.

Small Story 511 “A Coffee Served With Tradition Madhav felt disappointed once again. Rohini had not replied to his message inviting her for coffee at a famous cafeteria. This was the third time it had happened. They were good friends and traveled together by bus every day, talking freely and comfortably. Yet, when it came to coffee outside, Rohini never agreed, and Madhav could not understand why. The next day, during their bus journey, Madhav decided to gently bring up the topic. Before he could speak, Rohini smiled and said, “Hey, please don’t think I’ve disappointed you by refusing your coffee invitation.” Madhav replied calmly, “No problem, Rohini. I won’t misunderstand you.” Rohini then explained softly, “I come from an orthodox family with strong ethics and traditions. Even though I work and move with people freely, I have never gone out for coffee till today. I’ve been your friend for the past three years, and I respect your decent behavior and good manners.” “Thank you,” Madhav whispered. “I truly appreciate your values and principles.” Rohini nodded and said with a smile, “You are coming for coffee at my home this Sunday at 5 p.m.” Madhav was thrilled. On Sunday, exactly at 5 p.m., Madhav reached Rohini’s house. Her father, a priest working at a temple, welcomed him warmly and offered him a seat. After a few minutes, Rohini brought coffee along with sweet kesari and vada. Rohini’s father then called his wife and introduced Madhav. Smiling kindly, her mother said, “Rohini has told us about you—your helping nature and respectful limits. She likes you, and as she is our only daughter, we never opposed this friendship. We have decided to make both of you a couple in due course. Today is our girl-seeing ceremony. We hope your parents will agree.” Madhav was overwhelmed—not just by the coffee, but by the beautiful way he had been invited and the unexpected joy that followed. With a happy smile, he replied, “My parents already like Rohini. I respect your culture and traditions, and now I understand why she never accepted my coffee invitations. I am lucky to have her as my life partner.” With a heart full of happiness, Madhav departed, cherishing a coffee served with love, tradition, and destiny. K.Ragavan 4-2-26