Small Story 710.

 Small Story 710

Life Is Beautiful – 55

After a few days, on a Friday, Ram received a courier from Emirates Airlines containing his visa and air ticket to Dubai, as instructed by Kaathambari’s office. He was delighted and immediately sent a message to Kaathambari, thanking her for everything she had done for him.

Just then, Murthy returned from outside and greeted Ram warmly.

“Today is a holiday for me, and my wife and daughter have invited you for lunch. Since it is Varamahalakshmi Day, we are having a special lunch. Please join us,” Murthy said.

Ram gladly agreed.

“Certainly. I will be at your place by twelve,” he replied.

Before leaving, Ram made sure that Tommy had his lunch and then went to Murthy’s house at the appointed time.

He was warmly welcomed by Aarti and Nirmala.

After offering him a glass of fresh juice, they settled down, and Ram narrated everything that had happened. He explained how he had met Kaathambari, how she had invited him to Dubai, and how, following her instructions, he had now received his visa and air ticket.

Murthy listened with great amazement.

“What a wonderful person you are, Ram! You seem to be liked by everyone, including people in the media. Now you are going to see one of the great cities of the Middle East—Dubai. This is a remarkable turn in your life,” he said happily.

Ram smiled, but then his expression became slightly thoughtful. He leaned towards Murthy and whispered, “One part of me is very happy about this opportunity. But another part of me is worried about my little friend, Tommy. I don't know how he will manage while I am away.”

Nirmala immediately responded with affection.

“Uncle, Tommy is not just your dog. He is our friendly family dog too. Please don't worry. I will take care of him while you are in Dubai.”

Murthy and Aarti immediately supported her.

“Of course, Ram. Tommy will be looked after as if he were our own family member. You can go to Dubai without any worry,” Murthy assured him.

Ram felt relieved. His face brightened.

“Thank you all. That really means a lot to me,” he said emotionally.

Soon, everyone sat down for the Varamahalakshmi Day lunch. It was a grand feast, lovingly prepared by Aarti and Nirmala. There were several delicious dishes, followed by two varieties of sweets and, of course, the traditional Holigai. It was truly a memorable treat for Ram.

During the lunch, Murthy called Raj and happily conveyed the news of Ram’s departure to Dubai.

Raj and his wife were delighted to hear the news. They congratulated Ram and wished him success and a safe journey.

After lunch, Ram thanked Murthy, Aarti, and Nirmala and returned home.

He settled into his favourite chair and sat quietly for a while. His mind was filled with thoughts about the extraordinary events that had unfolded in his life.

A few days earlier, Dubai had seemed like a distant dream. Now, he had a visa and an air ticket in his hands. An unexpected friendship with Kaathambari had opened a new door for him, and people around him were encouraging and supporting him.

Most importantly, his worry about Tommy had also been taken care of.

Ram smiled to himself.

“Everything seems to be moving in the right direction,” he thought.

As he sat there, looking ahead to his new journey, Ram felt a deep sense of gratitude. Life, which had once seemed uncertain, was now bringing one positive surprise after another.

For the first time in many days, he felt completely at peace.

Life was indeed beautiful.

To be continued

K.Ragavan

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