Small Story 621.

 Small Story 621

 Dad’s Amazing Popularity

Sanjay was waiting in the lounge at Boston Airport for his flight to Chennai. The airport was crowded and busy. A young lady hurried in with her luggage, noticed the vacant seat beside him, and sat down.

Soon, the boarding announcement was made. Both of them moved toward the Business Class counter. Sanjay, who worked as a Project Head in a leading IT firm, was travelling to Chennai after receiving an unexpected call from his sister, Suma, the previous day.

“Sanjay, you must come,” she had said. “Sunday is Mom’s birthday, and we are planning something special.”

Sanjay loved and respected his mother deeply. She had sacrificed so much for his education and career, and he did not want to miss the occasion. He also valued his sister’s wishes and immediately booked his ticket.

His thoughts were interrupted when the young lady beside him said politely,

“Excuse me, this is your seat, right? My seat is next to yours. Would you mind if I sit here? I love window seats.”

Sanjay smiled and agreed.

“I am Shobha,” she introduced herself. “I’m travelling to Chennai.”

“I’m Sanjay,” he replied. “I’m also going to Chennai.”

After settling down, Shobha spoke softly.

“My visit is very sudden. My father requested me to attend the birthday celebration of a noble man’s wife. That family helped my dad in many ways years ago. Though the gentleman is no more, my father still continues the friendship and gratitude by attending their family functions. This time, my father has gone to Singapore to stay with my brother, so he asked me to represent him. Since I was planning to visit Chennai next week anyway, I agreed to come early.”

During the long journey, including the aircraft change at Frankfurt, Sanjay and Shobha had pleasant conversations and became good friends.

After reaching Chennai, they exchanged phone numbers before departing.

Sunday arrived.

(Tobe continued)

K.Ragavan

25-5-26