Small Story 587.

 Small Story 587

Title: Destiny’s Promise

Shekar was warmly greeted by Shubha at her home. They were meeting after five long years. After leaving Singapore, Shubha had settled in Bengaluru following her marriage to Ashok. Earlier, Shekar and Shubha had worked together in the same company. Though they stayed in touch through WhatsApp and social media, this was their first meeting in years.

Shekar had moved from Singapore to Australia and was now in Bengaluru to attend a wedding. He took the opportunity to visit Shubha.

After serving tea and snacks, Shubha sat down with a smile.

“How are you? And your parents in Trichy?” Shekar asked.

“They’re doing well,” Shubha replied. “What about you? Your family life?”

Shekar gave a faint smile. “I’m still a bachelor. What about you? Is your husband in the city?”

Shubha’s expression changed. She lowered her voice. “I’m sorry… Ashok passed away last year. He had gone to visit a friend in the hospital. On the way back, 

met with an accident… and  died.”

Shekar was stunned. “I’m so sorry, Shubha.”

She nodded quietly. “What to do? It’s fate. I continue my job from home and manage somehow.”

There was a pause. Then Shekar spoke, hesitantly but sincerely.

“Shubha, I want to tell you something honestly. I had a crush on you when we worked together… but I never had the courage to say it. If you are willing to think about your future… I would like to be with you.”

Shubha was taken aback. She whispered, “I never expected this from you… you never showed it.”

“I know,” Shekar replied softly. “Take your time. I’ll wait for your decision.”

With that, he left, carrying a quiet hope.

Later that evening, Shubha sat alone and scrolled through old messages from Ashok. One message stopped her heart.

“Shubha, I don’t think I will survive. Promise me… if I don’t come back, you must marry again and move forward in life.”

Tears filled her eyes. She remembered her reply: “Don’t talk like that. I’ll come see you tomorrow.”

But the next day, when she reached the hospital, Ashok was gone.

Now, his words echoed louder than ever. She understood his love, his concern for her future… and perhaps, his silent blessing.

The next day, Shubha sent a message to Shekar.

“I have thought about it… I agree with your proposal.”

Somewhere, it felt as though destiny had already written their reunion — guided by love, loss, and a promise that transcended time.

K.Ragavan

21-4-26