Destined Encounters: A Chance at Friendship

"You're not ready yet?" Mom was surprised to see Riya still in her pajamas. "Close your book and get ready," she told her daughter. "But mom, I have to prepare for the exams," Riya responded. "I know. But this is important too. Get dressed and come downstairs," mom said and left the room. Although Riya was just 23, her mother wanted to find a husband for her. Whenever she questioned her mother, she would say, "This is the right time. How long do you want to wait?" "Maybe this is my destiny," she thought, wore a blue silk saree listlessly and walked down the stairs. She saw a young man around her age, wearing a black shirt and khaki trousers, sitting quietly on the sofa next to his parents. Riya came and sat next to her dad. He introduced her to the family of the prospective groom. After the introduction, they conversed for a few minutes. Then they headed to the garden so they could speak freely. As they walked, the young man introduced himself. "Hi, I am Krish." Riya looked at him curiously and said, "Hi. So, what do you do?" "I am a software engineer. I recently got a job. But before I could join the company for work, my dad called me back. Now I know why," he laughed. "Can I ask you a question?" Riya changed the topic. "Umm, sure," he replied politely. "What kind of partner are you looking for?" she asked. "Honestly, I don't really know," he stopped and looked at her. "I wasn't planning on getting married. But my parents insisted that I do. So, I came here." "Really? Actually, me too. I want to continue with my studies but my parents don't want me to," she sighed. "Maybe I can help with that. I'd never want my partner to sacrifice her dreams," he looked at her and smiled. The two got along well and shared their dreams and aspirations. Later, when the time came for Krish to leave, he asked Riya, "I really liked talking to you. Can we be friends?" "Sure," she replied enthusiastically. As they exchanged numbers, they looked into each other's eyes and smiled. "Maybe my destiny isn't that bad," Riya thought as she waved him goodbye, hoping to see him again.