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.