My Friend's Story

This is my friend's story. My first attempt at wording someone else's. Hope I have done justice.

I was still there. Sitting in the cafeteria where we just bid her a farewell. I was still on the same chair. The same chair she sat next to this evening.

Last year, she joined the company where I had been working for past four years. I interviewed her during the recruitment process. She was a scared, confused and a restless soul. She was anxious about so many things. An introvert, a small town girl who had just opened up to the big and fast world. But she was yet to open up.

Since the day she joined us, I wanted to support her. Somewhere within my impartial heart, a tendency to be partial kept growing stronger and the mortal me gave in.

It started with little favors at work. A little extension in deadlines. A little relaxation in reporting time. My restlessness kept growing.

She did not have the looks to die for. She was not even witty enough to outsmart me but she was a breath of fresh air. Just being there for her felt like everything for me. Her happiness. Her worries. Her wishes. I was suddenly everything about her. I no longer existed within me.

It was then, a few months back, that my company was not doing well and the entry level employees could be the first ones to fall victim to the cost cutting plan. Her job meant a lot to her and I knew it.

I am sad today and I know that, too. But back then, I never knew I would be so hurt when she leaves. I helped her with the interviews, the negotiations and what not. No. Not because I was seeking something in return. Even if I was, it was only my happiness that had secretly found its place in hers.

And now I am here. On the same chair, lonely and restless. There is that longing to be with her again. Maybe on an evening road, maybe near a country pond or maybe just here...she returns with the pain of longing, too.

And together we shall be. Maybe. If fairy tales were to be true, we could be together, too!