Dona, 25, was a science graduate working as a Quality Control Assistant in a pharmaceutical company. She loved her job, but restructuring left her unemployed. Months of searching for another position brought only disappointment leading to depression.
Her parents, Meenu and Davis were depended on her. Although her sisters supported them financially, Dona, the youngest and unmarried daughter, felt responsible for their well-being. Her mother was diabetic, and the household expenses kept piling up.
Dona also dreamed of getting married. James, her first crush, was now her brother-in-law.
James had studied science and worked as a science teacher before becoming an accountant.
“Dona, work isn’t always restricted to your qualifications. Sometimes, life takes you in a different direction. What matters is your willingness to learn,” he often reminded her. His friend Deepanshu managed TDTC, a newly opened bank near her home, and was looking for someone to join the customer care team.
Dona cleared the interview but made several mistakes while filling out the application form. Deepanshu’s senior rejected it and threw it into the dustbin.
When James called to enquire, Deepanshu apologised, “I really tried, James. I’m sorry.”
“Don’t worry. Something better might be waiting for her,” James replied.
A few days later, Deepanshu received a list of customers to contact about loan applications. Busy with paperwork, he accidentally dialled Dona’s number instead of Divya’s.
“Hello?” Dona answered.
“This is Deepanshu from TDTC. I’m calling regarding your loan application.”
“I’m at the office right now!” Dona snapped.
He heard a Bollywood song playing loudly in the background.
“When should I call you back?” he asked.
“I’m only available on Sundays,” she replied curtly.
Deepanshu laughed. “Sunday? That’s my day off!”
“Then why are you disturbing me during working hours?” Dona argued. Deepanshu teased further, “ Your television seems to be working overtime.”
Dona lowered the volume.
“Do you have manners? Don’t ever call me again, Deepak!”
Before he could correct her, she disconnected.
Curious, Deepanshu checked his Excel sheet on the computer. He had dialled Dona instead of Divya. She was the applicant whose form had been rejected.
In the evening, he called her again but using a personal number.
“Dona, I called the wrong number earlier, but I think I’ve found the right person.”
“Are you calling about a loan?” she asked irritably.
“No. My assistant is resigning, and I need someone to handle correspondence, customer records, and administrative work. Would you like to come for an interview?”
“I’ll come on Monday. But remember, I don’t work on Sunday!” she declared.
Deepanshu laughed. “Agreed. Just promise not to call me Deepak.”
On Monday, Dona impressed him with her confidence and willingness to learn. After the selection process, he offered her the position of branch administrative assistant.
Deepanshu had dialled the wrong number, but the unexpected conversation had brought the right person into his life.
Some wrong numbers turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
