Oliver, a senior university student, was swiftly pedaling his bicycle through the slick, rain-soaked streets of Manchester. That particular day carried immense weight—it was the critical exam that would determine whether he could finally obtain his degree.
Surrounding him, horns blared and buses surged forward, while dark, heavy clouds gathered overhead. Only fifteen minutes remained before the university gates would close firmly.
As he hurried along the main road, a sudden sight captured his attention.
A man, dressed in work attire, lay motionless on the sidewalk near a bus stop. Passersby glanced briefly but continued without stopping.
Oliver paused, torn by a swift hesitation. The exam. His graduation. His entire future hung in the balance.
Yet his conscience overpowered cold calculation.
He slammed on his brakes, abandoned his bike, and rushed toward the man.
Saving a Life at the Expense of a Dream
The stranger’s complexion was pale, and his breathing came with difficulty. Oliver checked the man’s pulse — faint but existent.
He immediately called emergency services, shouting desperately for assistance. Someone handed him a bottle of water; another person redialed the ambulance number.
Drawing from first aid training he had received at university, Oliver applied his knowledge with trembling hands and rain-soaked sleeves, refusing to relent.
Moments later, the man’s eyes fluttered open slowly.
However, just as the ambulance arrived, Oliver’s phone buzzed — the exam time had already passed.
A heavy feeling sank into his chest: it was now impossible to make it on time.
As paramedics lifted the man onto a stretcher, the stranger clasped Oliver’s hand and whispered softly, “Thank you… You saved my life. I will never forget this.”
Oliver managed a faint smile, though inside he felt the weight of his sacrifice.
He rode home slowly beneath the gentle drizzle, carrying a disappointment heavier than the rain.
“That night, I replayed that moment endlessly, wondering if I had just thrown my future away.”
An Unexpected Letter Opens a Door
Three days later, Oliver’s apartment received a letter headed with:
Wellington & Co. Holdings
Frowning, he didn’t recognize the name. Upon opening the letter, he read:
“Dear Mr. Parker,
My name is Harold Wellington—the man you aided last week. According to doctors, your prompt help may have saved my life.
I realize you missed your exam because of me, and I sincerely regret this.
I have spoken to your university, which agreed to arrange a special makeup exam for you next week.
I would also appreciate a chance to meet you in person to convey my gratitude.
If you consent, my office will send a car to collect you Monday morning.
Kind regards,
Harold Wellington”
Oliver read the message twice, scarcely believing the unexpected hope arriving after despair.
A Meeting of Fate and Chance
On Monday, a sleek black sedan pulled up outside his dormitory.
He was escorted to Wellington & Co.’s glass tower nestled in the heart of London.
Inside, Harold greeted him warmly—healthy again but visibly touched by the encounter.
Firmly, Harold grasped Oliver’s hand.
“You saved my life,” Harold affirmed. “And mere words cannot express my thanks.”
They spoke extensively about Oliver’s studies, ambitions, and obstacles. Attentively, Harold listened, then smiled.
“Each year, my company selects a special intern. Here’s the deal: if you pass your exam, the position will be yours.
A person with your compassion deserves every opportunity.”
Overwhelmed, Oliver could hardly utter a word, overcome by gratitude.
The Reward That Comes from Doing What Is Right
One week later, Oliver took the makeup exam.
This time, calm resolve replaced his previous panic. He passed with top marks.
Within months, he began working as an intern at Wellington & Co., advancing swiftly and earning respect for his intellect and sincerity.
- Decision to help saved a life
- Initial sacrifice led to unexpected opportunity
- Gratitude transformed into career advancement
When asked how his existence changed so profoundly, Oliver simply smiled, explaining,
“That day, I chose to value a human life over an exam.”
As Harold once reflected to him,
“Oliver, you didn’t lose your future that day—
you just met it earlier than expected.”
Conclusion
Oliver’s story powerfully demonstrates how an act of kindness, even at a personal cost, can lead to unforeseen rewards and new beginnings. His brave choice to prioritize humanity reshaped his destiny, reminding us all that sometimes putting others first opens the door to remarkable opportunities and a fulfilling life path.