The Girl in Red - Part 2

(Read Part 1 here)

Hassan bus stand is the largest bus stand I have ever seen. It is like a giant stadium. One has to walk quite a distance to reach one platform from the other.

As the bus neared Hassan bus stand, only five people were in the bus and even she was there! While getting down, I overheard her asking the conductor in which platform Chikmagalur buses stand. I thought to myself, it is a lucky day after all. But then, I remembered her earlier reply and was in a dilemma. I waited for a minute for her to get down. But, she was nowhere to be seen.

I had to run to my platform to catch a bus to Chikmagalur. It was already 10pm and at this hour, buses to Chikmagalur usually are very crowded. So, I rushed to my platform. Soon, a Chikmagalur bound bus arrived and I barely managed to grab a seat. I was still looking out for her, because I was sure she had asked for Chikmagalur bus and she had to catch this bus. When the bus was about to depart from the platform, I saw someone far away waving at the bus driver.

The person was wearing red dress and this was the same girl. But, she had a long way to reach and I wondered how she would be able to manage with the luggage. The driver stopped the bus. It was a terrible sight to see her struggling and carrying the bags. She had to make two trips with the luggage from the other platform to the bus. I had an urge to get down from the bus and help her. But, my help was rejected once and second time rejection would be overtly embarrassing.

I thought to myself, if only she had said yes earlier, I could have been of great help to her that day. Anyhow, she got in and took the last available seat.

After an hour, I reached my destination (3km before Chikmagalur) and while getting down glanced at her and she was smiling at me and made an expression "If only I had said yes earlier, I could have saved myself from the weightlifting!" 

I smiled back and made an expression: "Next time, dear" and got down from the bus.

I understand girls’ plight completely. A girl can’t accept help from a stranger. But, does it mean she should suffer? What do you think?