The stranger on the bus

The stranger on the bus

Raghav wanted to start his life afresh in a new city. But the pain of betrayal made him question friendship itself.

The bus was racing ahead and so were Raghav’s thoughts. That fight with his former friend and business partner, Mahesh, was still fresh in his mind. I treated him like a real brother and he betrayed me, Raghav was terribly hurt.

His business was gone and trust was broken into pieces. Raghav wanted to start his life afresh in a new city. But the pain of betrayal made him question friendship itself.

A voice broke his chain of thoughts: “Excuse me. Is this seat taken?” He saw a casually dressed middle-aged man standing next to his seat. “No, you can sit here,” Raghav responded.

“Are you also going to Pune,” the man asked him. “Yes, you too?” Raghav asked.

“Yeah, I have a small business there. And you?” he asked Raghav.

“I had a business but not anymore. Planning to start something new there,” Raghav replied.

“No, I don’t. I will see where fate takes me, Mr…” Raghav said, to which the man responded smilingly, “Surendra.”

“Pune is a good city. Do you have friends or relatives there?” the man continued.

“No, I don’t. I will see where fate takes me, Mr…” Raghav said, to which the man responded smilingly, “Surendra.”

Hours passed by as the two had a long-winding conversation about life, their families and future plans. Just like two old friends who have met after a long time.

As the bus reached Pune, they shook each other’s hands. “It was a pleasure meeting you Surendra. I really appreciate your advice on how I could set up a business here,” Raghav said.

“Anytime, Raghav. Here’s my card. Don’t forget you’re not alone in the city anymore,” Surendra smiled.

His reassuring words felt they were coming from a friend. As Raghav bid him goodbye, he was glad he met this stranger on the bus.

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