So let's begin!

SCHOOL PARKING LOT — LATE AFTERNOON

The sun dips lower as Bela walks briskly across the lot, Aashvi and Vanya trailing behind like guilty ducklings. The school bags bounce on their shoulders — heavier than usual with the weight of today’s mess.

Bela unlocks the car without a word. She doesn’t look at them as they scramble into the back seat. She closes the door firmly, walks around, slides into the driver’s seat.

For a moment, the car is silent — the only sound is Bela’s keys clinking as she starts the ignition.

Aashvi peeks at Vanya, who’s chewing her lip, eyes big and watery. Aashvi whispers so low only Vanya can hear.

Aashvi (hushed):

“Aaj toh Mumma bilkul bhi nahi bol rahi… iska matlab bohot bura hone wala hai…”

Vanya nods miserably, hugging her bag tighter.

Bela adjusts the rearview mirror — her eyes catch theirs. The cold disappointment there makes Aashvi’s throat dry up.

Bela (voice tight, controlled):

“Seat belt.”

Both girls fumble with the buckles instantly — click. Click.

The drive begins — the engine hums, the road blurs past, but inside it’s dead silent.

Aashvi keeps stealing glances at Bela’s hands on the steering wheel — gripping it tight, knuckles pale. She wants to say sorry, please don’t be angry — but her throat closes up.

Halfway home, Bela’s voice cuts through the heavy silence.

Bela (low, calm but sharp):

“Koi explanation dena hai?”

Aashvi opens her mouth — then closes it. Vanya tries, but no words come out. They both shake their heads meekly.

Bela gives a small humourless laugh — more like a sigh.

Bela (muttering to herself, hurt):

“Har prank ya badmashi ke baad mujhe lagta tha yahi tum sabki limit h but nhi mai hi galat thi.”

The rest of the ride goes in the same pin-drop hush — even the city noise outside can’t break it. By the time they reach the familiar gate, both girls look like they want to shrink into their school uniforms forever.

---

SEHGAL HOUSE — LIVING ROOM — EVENING

Mahir opens the door when they step in — Kikvi peeks out from behind his leg, eyes wide, hugging her storybook to her chest.

Mahir’s eyes flick from Aashvi’s drooped head to Bela’s stiff shoulders. He raises his eyebrows — a silent kya hua?

Bela doesn’t answer him yet. She walks past him straight to the living room, drops her bag on the sofa with a thud.

She turns — arms crossed, looking straight at Aashvi and Vanya.

Bela (sharp, clear):

“Sit.”

Both of them drop to the couch instantly.

Kikvi whispers to Mahir — loud enough for only him to hear.

Kikvi (tiny whisper):

“Mumma bohot gusse mein hai na…?”

Mahir nods, sighing. He gently lifts Kikvi in his arms so she doesn’t get dragged into the storm.

Bela faces Aashvi first — her words heavy but calm.

Bela:

“Mujhe batao — kisne permission di thi maar-peet karne ki? Principal Sir ke Saamne complaint kar sakte the na par nhi.. Tumhe kya laga? Tumhe hero banna hai? Tum dono principal ban gayi ho school ki? Discipline ki koi zarurat nahi?”

Aashvi’s eyes brim — she blurts, trembling.

Aashvi (voice cracking):

“Mumma… unhone Kiku ka mazaak banaya tha… mujhe gussa aa gaya… main—”

Bela raises her hand — not to hit, but to stop her mid-sentence.

Bela (cold):

“Aur tumne socha maar ke sab sahi ho jayega? Insaan apni respect kaise jeet'ta hai pata hai? Dimaag se — haath se nahi.”

Vanya sniffles beside Aashvi.

Vanya (tiny voice):

“Mumma… sorry…”

Bela lets out a sharp breath, her eyes flicking coldly from Aashvi to Vanya and back.

Bela (voice rising, frustration spilling out):

"Sorry? Bas sorry? Itna bada kaand karke bas sorry? Kisne kaha tha maar-peet karne ko? Is tarah baat solve hoti hai? Agar aaj main Principal Sir ke saamne maafi na mangti, toh tum dono school se nikal diye jaate — samajh mein aa raha h kuch ?"

Aashvi and Vanya flinch, their shoulders drooping lower.

Kikvi, standing in Mahir’s arms, squirms — her little heart can’t take it. She wriggles down from Mahir’s hold, clutching her storybook like a shield. She steps forward timidly.

Kikvi (softly, trying to defend):

"Mumma… wo Ayush aur Rahul ne mujhe… pareshaan kiyatha na… isliye Aashi aur Vanu—"

Bela snaps her eyes to Kikvi — sharp, tired, and unyielding.

Bela (cutting her off, stern):

"Kiku! Beech mein mat bol. Tumhe kisi ne kuch nahi bola. Tum chup raho. Tumhe jo karna tha, tumne nahi kiya. Tumhe khud bolna chahiye tha teacher ko — par tumne nhi kiya.. Na Humse share kiya na teacher se.. yeh hero banne ki jaroorat tumhe bhi nahi thi, aur inko bhi nahi hai!"

Kikvi’s eyes well up instantly — her lip trembles. She looks at Mahir helplessly, but he stays silent, giving her an assuring nod to be brave. She steps forward quickly, ignoring Bela’s glare.

Kikvi (choked voice, to Aashvi and Vanya):

“Aashi… Vanu… tum dono ne kyu kiya yeh sab? Mana kiya tha na? Maine bola tha na… wo dono bad boys hain… Dekha hi gayi na mumma gussa!”

She pulls both of them into a tight hug — their heads bumping together on her small shoulders. Aashvi and Vanya break down completely — soft sobs muffled in Kikvi’s hug.

Aashvi (crying, hugging her tighter):

“Sorry Kiku… par koi tujhe pareshaan kare… hum kaise chup baithte is liye bas gusse mai maar diya…”

Vanya (sniffling, wiping her eyes on Kikvi’s shoulder):

“Tu nahi thi school mai na… toh humne sabak sikhaya unko… koi bhi tujhe tease karega toh hum nahi chodenge!”

They pull back just enough for Aashvi to cup Kikvi’s cheeks, her tone suddenly fierce through tears.

Aashvi:

“Team Aashvi ka Rule kya hai? One for all… All for one! Agar koi bhi tujhe pareshaan karega, toh samajh le hum teeno ek hi hain!”

Kikvi’s tears spill at this — she quickly checks their faces, then grabs Aashvi’s hands, turning them over. She touches Vanya’s elbow, noticing the scraped patch.

Kikvi (worried):

“Aree… Vanu! Yeh itna kaise laga? Aur Aashi… teri pair pe yeh kya nishaan hai? Tum dono ko chot lagi na?”

Aashvi and Vanya look away sheepishly — not wanting to admit it. Kikvi puffs her cheeks angrily.

Kikvi (bossy, protective):

“Baith jao! Abhi!”

She runs off to her room — rummages through the drawers and returns with the small first-aid box clutched tight in her arms. She gently pushes both her sisters to sit on the sofa.

She kneels, carefully dabbing ointment on Vanya’s elbow — blowing on it softly so it won’t sting. Then she lifts Aashvi’s pant leg, tutting softly at the bruise, and gently applies antiseptic.

Bela, who was standing stiff with anger till now, watches this sight — her fierce glare melting slowly. The lump in her throat rises as she sees her littlest one caring for her mischievous soldiers.

She crosses her arms, fighting her smile — eyes moist but hiding it behind her stern look.

Bela (murmuring under her breath):

“Yeh teeno… saath mein toh duniya hila denge… aur mujhe pagal bhi…”

From behind, Mahir leans against the wall, catching Bela’s softened eyes — a small grin spreading on his lips.

Aashvi and Vanya sitting obediently as Kikvi dabs the last bit of ointment on Aashvi’s bruise. She carefully closes the first aid box with a dramatic click — her bossy tone returning, nose slightly scrunched in mock anger.

Kikvi (stern, wagging her tiny finger):

“Dekha! Kitni chot lagi tum dono ko! Mana kiya tha na? Tum logon ko fight karne ki bilkul bhi zaroorat nahi thi! Wo dono Pagal h.. Kuch bhi bolte rehte h.. Is liye maine nhi bataya tha tum dono ko.. Fas gaye na ab.. ”

Aashvi and Vanya nod sheepishly, their cheeks still pink from tears. Aashvi pulls Kikvi’s finger playfully, sticking her tongue out.

Aashvi (teasing):

“Haan Madam Kikvi — Team Aashvi ki leader ban gayi tu?”

Vanya (pouting):

"Leader toh yeh thi, par ab toh tu hi humari Mumma ban gayi!”

All three giggle softly, leaning their foreheads together — a tiny huddle of warmth and mischief.

But the warmth shatters in a heartbeat when — tap tap tap. Bela clears her throat loudly, arms folded, expression back to iron.

The trio freeze in their hug. Bela lifts her chin slightly — her eyes sharp but brimming with restrained softness.

Bela (cold, low tone):

“Aashi. Vanu. Yahan aao. Abhi.”

Aashvi and Vanya gulp, standing up slowly — Kikvi immediately grabs Aashvi’s hand, then Vanya’s, and steps in front of them like a tiny shield.

Kikvi (pleading, eyes wide):

“Mumma! Please! Unko mat daanto… unhone mere liye hi kiya na! Mujhe bachane ke liye hi… please Mumma! Gussa mat karo…”

Bela’s eyes flick from Kikvi’s tiny frame to her trembling sisters behind her. She bites back the wave of emotion threatening to break her stern mask.

She steps closer, towering over her three cubs — voice low but dangerously calm.

Bela (glaring at Aashvi & Vanya, to Kikvi):

“Side ho jaa, Kiku. Tujhe Mumma se behas karne ki koi jaroorat nahi hai.”

Kikvi plants her feet stubbornly, clinging to Aashvi’s wrist tighter.

Kikvi (soft, brave):

“Mumma please… punishment mujhe dedo… par inko mat daanto…”

Bela’s eyes soften just for a second — but she stiffens again, taking a deep breath, fighting her smile. Behind her, Mahir watches silently from the hallway — his eyes twinkling with hidden pride at their bond.

Bela’s sharp gaze stays locked on Aashvi and Vanya — her patience threadbare now. She turns briskly, strides to the cabinet near the wall, opens the drawer. The faint metallic clink of the scale echoes through the tense silence.

Aashvi and Vanya’s faces drain of all colour — they know this sound too well.

Kikvi’s tiny heart drops — her eyes widen in sheer panic. She darts forward, blocking Bela’s path before she can reach the girls fully.

Kikvi (urgent, trembling):

"Mumma! Please! Mujhe maar lo! Sab meri galti thi! Mujhe punishment do — unko mat maaro na please!"

Bela’s nostrils flare. She stops — towering above Kikvi, the cold steel of the scale glinting in her hand.

Bela (voice tight, trembling with bottled frustration):

“Sabse badi toh teri hi galti hai! Agar pehle sab bata diya hota — toh yeh tamasha hota hi nahi! Tumhe pata tha na — in dono ko sach pata chalega toh yeh chup nahi rahenge… phir bhi tumne chup rehna sahi samjha? Toh ab bhugto. Because every action has its consequence. Samjhi?”

Kikvi just shakes her head, tears slipping down her cheeks. She hiccups, trying to speak, but her voice breaks.

Bela lifts the scale slightly, pointing at all three of them — her tone deadly calm, terrifying in its softness.

BELA (cold command):

“Teeno. Haath aage karo. Abhi.”

Aashvi and Vanya swallow hard — they glance at each other, then at Kikvi, who’s standing frozen, trembling. Slowly, Aashvi lifts her hand first, her fingers quivering. Vanya follows, blinking tears away.

Kikvi’s knees nearly buckle — but when Bela’s eyes snap to her, she silently lifts her tiny palm too, grabbing onto Aashvi’s elbow for courage.

Bela’s eyes harden. She raises the scale high.

CRACK!

A sharp smack on Aashvi’s palm. Aashvi winces, eyes shut tight, tears slipping out as she bites her lip hard to hold in a cry.

BELA (growling, to Aashvi):

“Sabse zyada dimaag sirf shararat mein chalta hai na? Hero banne ka shauk hai? Padhai mein nahi — bas yahi planning karni aati hai? Pranks kaise karne hain, teachers ko kaise pareshaan karna hai — sab ideas teri jeb mein hain! Par jahan buddhi lagani hai wahan nahi lagti!”

She swings the scale again — another sharp smack on Aashvi’s palm.

CRACK!

Aashvi’s shoulders jerk — a tiny gasp leaves her mouth.

Bela’s eyes shift to Vanya next — the softer one, always hiding behind her sisters.

BELA (sharp, to Vanya):

“Tu sabse seedhi banti hai na? Par sabse pehle galat mein saath degi! Dosti mein sab kuch theek — sahi galat sab bhool jaati hai? Sharam nahi aati?”

CRACK!

Vanya squeaks — her shoulders hunch as a stifled cry slips out, her tiny palm bright red.

And then — Kikviis next.

Kikvi doesn't dare look up as she knew Bela’s frustration has drowned her softness for now. And quietly forwards he hand.

CRACK!

The smack lands on Kikvi’s tiny palm — a sharp, stinging sound. Kikvi’s whimper tears the air — she clutches her wrist instantly.

Still, she throws herself forward again, tiny arms trying to block Aashvi’s hand.

KIKVI (sobbing, desperate):

“Mumma bas karo! Mujhe maar lo! Aashi-Vanu ko mat maaro! Please Mumma, please!”

But Bela’s anger breaks out fully — she brushes Kikvi aside sharply, her voice like thunder.

Bela (furious shout):

"Hatt jaa, Kiku! Tumhe har galat cheez mein hero banne ki zarurat nahi! Tumne bhi toh sab chhupaya — ab punishment milegi sabko!"

She swings the scale again — this time back to Aashvi.

CRACK!

Aashvi’s palm jolts again — she bites back a sob, tears mixing with a raw, stinging pain.

Mahir appears at the door but stops — torn between stepping in or letting Bela finish what he knows is her desperate way to discipline when reason has failed.

The room is thick with the sound of Kikvi’s sobs, Aashvi’s sniffles, and Vanya’s tiny whimpers. Bela’s eyes burn with an anger that’s part fury, part helplessness, part pure mother’s ache.

She grips the scale tighter — lifts it again. Her eyes flick to Kikvi’s trembling palm.

CRACK!

Another sharp blow on Kikvi’s little hand. She gasps, a squeak bursting from her throat — but before Bela can swing again —

Aashvi lunges, pushing Kikvi’s hand back, forcing her own palm forward instead.

Aashvi (crying out):

"Mumma mujhe maar lo! Mujhe! Kiku ko mat maaro ab! Uska fault nahi tha Mumma — main hi galat thi! Yeh sab mera idea tha.. Wo chewing wala idea bhi mera tha.. Vanu me bas help ki thi.. In dono ki galti nhi h"

Bela’s eyes narrow — rage flaring. But before the scale can land, Kikvi shoves Aashvi’s arm aside and puts hers forward again — tears spilling, shoulders shaking.

Kikvi (sobbing, voice cracking):

"Nahi Mumma! Mujhe! Meri galti thi! Mujhe maaro — Aashi ko mat karo! Maine sach nhi bataya tha.. Galti meri h!"

Vanya tries to pull Kikvi back — "Kiku tu hatt.. Pagal mat ban.. Yeh prank hum dono ke kiya tha"

But the sisters just end up a tangled mess of tiny arms, each pushing the other forward to take the punishment instead.

Aashvi (pleading, voice hoarse):

"Mumma please — Mujhe maaro bas! Kiku ko mat—"

Kikvi (sobbing harder):

"Nahi! Mujhe! Mujhe Mumma! Meri hi sab galti thi!"

Bela’s eyes flare — the scale still lifted, her breathing ragged now from anger and the weight of watching her cubs fight to take blame for each other.

She swings — another sharp smack lands, catching Aashvi’s palm. Aashvi gasps — Kikvi yelps and tries to wedge herself forward, and the other hit lands on her palm! Crack!

Seeing them fighting like this she snaps

Bela (shouting, voice cracking):

"BAS! Koi HERO banne ki zarurat nahi hai! Sab galat the — sabko milega! Chup bilkul!"

She swings again — Vanya’s tiny palm trembles as the scale snaps against it. A whimper bursts out — but she clenches her fists tight to hold back sobs.

Another snap — Aashvi again. Another — Kikvi’s turn.Their cries are soft, broken.

Finally, Bela stops — her shoulders heaving, chest rising and falling as if each breath is an effort. Her grip loosens on the scale — her eyes glassy but her jaw tight.

From the hallway, Mahir steps forward fast. He gently wraps his arm around her back, pulling the scale from her fingers before she can raise it again. His touch is firm — grounding.

Mahir (low, soothing, to Bela only):

"Bas, Bela… bas… ab bas bhi karo… breathe… saans lo… bas…"

Bela blinks rapidly, her furious tears threatening to spill but she swallows them back — her voice like a low growl, exhausted yet stern.

She turns back to the trio — still standing there, palms red, tears dripping, arms still half tangled like shields.

Bela (cold, sharp):

"Abhi murga bano. Teeno. Aur jab tak main nahi bolungi, seedhe nahi hone ka. Samjhe tum log?"

Aashvi starts to step forward protectively, trying to shield Kikvi again.

Aashvi (pleading):

"Mumma, please — Kiku ko mat bolo, main—"

But Kikvi jumps ahead of her, standing stubbornly in front of Bela’s glare — voice small but firm through her tears.

Kikvi (crying, tiny but bold):

"Nahi! Mujhe bhi! Mujhe bhi ban-na hai! Meri bhi galti thi! Mujhe bhi punishment do Mumma!"

Aashvi and Kikvi push each other lightly, whisper-arguing even now — each trying to spare the other.

Aashvi (hissing to Kiku):

"Tu hatt na! Tujhe nahi karna — main karungi!"

Kikvi (sobbing, fierce whisper):

"Nahi! Mujhe bhi! Main bhi karungi!"

Bela’s glare slices through their bickering like a knife. Her sharp voice snaps their fight dead.

Bela (dangerous calm):

"EK AUR SHABD BOLA TOH — donon chup! Abhi murga bano — teeno. ABHI. Prank mai. badmashi mai, punishment mai, sabme ek dusre ka saath de sakte ho lekin galat karne se koi nhi rokega ek dusre ko.. Teen din se non stop dimaag kar rakha h.. Na pranks ki koi limit.. Na baatein chupane ki.. Kuch bol nhi rahi toh teeno ka guts badh gaya h.. Manners tak bhul gaye ho ekdum. Murga bano abhi!"

Instantly, the three sisters drop — palms on the floor, knees bent, ears caught under knees. Small sniffles echo in the heavy silence.

Bela wipes a lone tear that finally breaks free — then crosses her arms again, standing tall behind them.

Behind her, Mahir watches — silent, resigned — the only sound now the soft, hiccuped breaths of three tiny rebels paying for their bond of mischief and love.

LIVING ROOM — MOMENTS LATER

Red palms pressed tight to the floor, ears locked under their knees, the three sisters stay crouched — tiny sniffles breaking the tense silence. Their backs curve, shoulders trembling as soft sobs escape one by one.

Aashvi lifts her head slightly, shooting a glare sideways at Kikvi — her own tears streaking her cheeks.

Aashvi (hissing, voice cracking):

"Tu beech mein kyu aayi, haan? Tujhe kya jaroorat thi? Mujhe aur Vanu ko sambhalne deti na!"

Kikvi sniffles — her nose red, voice tiny but stubborn. She peeks sideways at Aashvi, then at Vanya, who’s too busy wiping her nose on her sleeve.

Kikvi (bravely, between hiccups):

"Toh main kaise dekh leti tum dono ko akele maar khate hue? Team Aashvi ka rule kya hai? One for all, all for one! Galti chahe ek ki ho… saza sabki hoti hai… aur is baar galti teeno ki thi toh kaise nhi aayi beech mai.. Hum humesha saath rahenge chahe kuch bhi ho!"

Aashvi’s glare melts — her eyes squeeze shut as she tries to swallow her sob. Vanya sniffles, nodding quickly.

The three stay hunched together — little lumps of loyalty and regret.

---

SEHGAL HOUSE — BEDROOM — SAME TIME

Bela shuts the door behind her, her back pressing to it as if she’s holding up the whole weight of the walls. The scale still shakes faintly in her hand before she tosses it aside, breathing ragged.

Her knees buckle — the dam breaks. A sob rips out, her palm flies to her mouth but it’s useless. She sinks down to sit on the bed’s edge, shoulders heaving.

Bela (between sobs, whispering to herself):

"Kya ho gaya mujhe… itna gussa… mere bacche… Kiku… Aashi… Vanu… kya kar diya maine…"

Before the guilt swallows her whole, Mahir steps in — wordless, calm but firm. He kneels in front of her, gently pulls her hands away from her face and folds her trembling frame into his chest.

Mahir (soft, soothing, murmuring):

"Bas… bas Bela… shaant ho ja… bas… tum Maa ho… bura lagta hai par kabhi kabhi jaroori hota hai… bas… saans lo… sambhalo khud ko…"

Bela clutches his shirt, burying her face — tears soaking into his shoulder, her fingers tightening like she might drown without his anchor.

Mahir just holds her tighter, pressing his cheek to her hair — letting her break down, knowing that only here, in this quiet dark room, does the lioness allow herself to crumble.

LIVING ROOM — CONTINUATION

Low sobs and muffled sniffling echo softly through the still room. The three sisters stay in their spot — crouched low, palms pressed to the floor, knees bent tight under their arms. Their shoulders ache, backs stiff, red palms throbbing with every tiny shift.

Vanya’s face twists — her eyes squeeze shut as another tear rolls down her cheek. She whispers, voice trembling.

Vanya (tiny voice, cracking):

"Mujhse aur nahi ho raha… bohot dard ho raha hai Aashi …"

Aashvi shifts just enough to bump her forehead gently to Vanya’s arm. She whispers fiercely, hiding her own wince.

Aashvi (soft but firm):

"Bas thoda aur Vanu… Mumma ka gussa shaant hone tak. Phir hum teeno ek saath hi uthenge, okay? Hum Team Aashvi hain na?"

Vanya sniffles again — Kikvi, who’s right beside her, reaches out with her free hand and pokes Vanya’s side playfully.

Kikvi (trying to lighten the moment, dramatic whisper):

"Waise socho… agar koi humein abhi dekhe na… toh bolega — teen super joker murge! Meri Vanu toh sabse cutie murga lag rahi hai… bilkul cartoon wali!"

Aashvi lets out a snort — can’t help it. Vanya’s pout cracks into a watery giggle.

Vanya (weak laugh):

"Kiku! Chup kar… Mumma ne sun liya toh phir se daantengi!"

Kikvi grins, still balancing her ‘murga’ pose, her eyes twinkling through her own unshed tears.

Kikvi (mock boast):

"Main toh Mumma ko bhi murga bana dungi ek din — dekh lena!"

Aashvi gasps dramatically — even in pain, the sisters huddle closer, muffling giggles against each other’s shoulders. For a moment, the sting in their hands and backs dulls — replaced by this small, stubborn warmth they wrap around each other.

SEHGAL HOUSE — BEDROOM — NIGHT

Bela, exhausted from her outburst and the emotional storm, finally cries herself to sleep. Her breaths grow softer, the furrows on her forehead smooth out as Mahir sits beside her, brushing her hair back gently. He plants a soft kiss on her temple, pulls the blanket over her shoulder, and switches off the bedside lamp.

Mahir (whisper, to himself):

"Sab sambhal jaayega…"

He slips out of the room, closing the door quietly behind him.

---

LIVING ROOM — CONTINUATION

Outside, the sight that greets him makes his chest tighten with quiet pride — and a small ache.

There they are — his three little whirlwinds — still crouched ‘murga’ style, red palms hidden behind giggles and sniffles, leaning on each other to bear the ache. Even punished, they’re still finding reasons to laugh.

Mahir watches a moment, then strides over. He kneels down in front of them with a soft sigh.

Mahir (gently):

"Bas, bas… ab bohot ho gaya. Utho sab ke sab."

Aashvi, Vanya, and Kikvi look up at him — eyes wet but hopeful. One by one they uncurl from the pose, wincing and stretching their stiff legs. Mahir pulls all three into a careful hug right there on the floor — strong arms wrapping them up like a warm shield.

---

KIDS’ ROOM — MOMENTS LATER

Mahir settles them on the bed. He brings them sipper of water — watches them gulp it down in big noisy sips. Then he pulls out the ointment and sits cross-legged in front of them.

He cups Aashvi’s face first, brushing her damp hair back.

Mahir (scolding softly, but loving):

"Tu na… sabse badi badmaash hai. Bata, kyun karti hai itni badmashi? Dekh… Mumma ka gussa bhi na, double ho jaata hai teri wajah se."

Aashvi’s lips wobble — she throws her arms around his neck.

Aashvi (mumbling, guilty):

"I’m sorry Papa… main bad girl hoon na… meri wajah se Mumma ko principal sir ko sorry bolna pada… Mumma ko gussa aaya… Wo khadus Sharma bohot Ganda. h chodungi nhi mai usko.. Usne meri mumma se sorry bulwaya h"

Mahir hugs her tighter, patting her back.

Mahir (kisses her head):

"Aise nhi bolte aashi.. Wo sir h na.. Aapki mumma ne suna hota abhi toh unhe kitna Bura lagta.. Aur, Bad girl? Arey meri princess bad girl kabse ho gayi? Tu galat thi… par bad nahi hai. Mistake hoti hai, par sudharna zaroori hai. Samjhi?"

Aashvi sniffles, nodding against his chest.

Meanwhile, Kikvi — seeing Mahir busy with Aashvi — picks up the ointment tube herself. She scoots over to Vanya, whose teary face is red and puffy. Carefully, with tiny fingers, Kikvi dabs the medicine on Vanya’s bruised hands.

Kikvi (bossy but sweet):

"Rote nahi… Kiku sab theek kar degi!"

Vanya manages a tiny giggle through her tears.

Mahir then pulls Vanya gently into his lap — wiping her cheeks with his thumb.

Mahir (softly):

"Meri Vanu… bas, sab theek. Ab rona band."

He pats her softly, then gestures Kikvi closer. She crawls into his other arm — three squished together, safe in Papa’s warm lap. He rubs medicine on Kikvi’s palms too, kissing her forehead when she winces.

Mahir (teasing grin):

"Team Aashvi? Arey yeh toh Team Papa ban gayi!"

---

Suddenly Aashvi’s tummy growls. She looks up sheepishly.

Aashvi:

"Papa… bhookh lagi hai…"

Vanya and Kikvi nod like baby birds.

Mahir (laughing under his breath):

"Arre! Mumma toh so gayi hai thak ke… khana bana nahi abhi tak. Ab kya karein?"

Aashvi’s eyes twinkle with mischief again.

Aashvi:

"Papa… order kar lo na! Bahar se! Pleaseee?"

Kikvi claps her hands excitedly. Vanya squeaks out a hopeful, "Please Papa!"

Mahir raises his hands dramatically.

Mahir (defeated grin):

"Theek hai! Theek hai! Tum teeno toh bas chale toh papa ko bhi na chodo. Batao, kya khana h?"

The three yell their favorites in a chorus — giggling as Mahir shushes them so Bela doesn’t wake up. He quickly places the order — even adding Bela’s favorite dish and putting it aside carefully.

---

LATER — SAME NIGHT

The food comes — Mahir feeds each of them with his own hands, tiny bites, wiping sauce off chins, joking and teasing till the room is filled with quiet giggles again.

Soon, bellies full, eyes drooping — Aashvi and Kikvi curl up on either side of him. Vanya snuggles up on his chest, thumb in her mouth, mumbling drowsy nonsense.

Mahir looks down at all three — kisses their heads — and murmurs softly to the sleeping trio:

Mahir (whispers):

"Mumma ko gussa aata hai… par Papa ko bas pyaar hi pyaar aata hai. Humesha."

He stays there — guarding their little dreams — until they all drift into the safest sleep in the world.

---

SEHGAL HOUSE — BEDROOM — LATE NIGHT

The house is finally quiet — the echoes of scolding and tears replaced by a soft hum of night. Mahir pushes the bedroom door open gently.

Inside, Bela sits at the edge of the bed, knees pulled up slightly, her hair a bit messy from sleep. Her eyes look distant — puffy but dry now. She glances up when Mahir steps in — her gaze softens instantly at the sight of him.

In his hands: a warm plate covered with a lid, and a glass of water.

Mahir doesn’t say anything at first. He sits beside her, placing the plate on the nightstand. He cups her cheek — thumb brushing away the last sign of leftover tears.

Mahir (softly):

"Utho… chalo kuch toh kha lo, Bela. Pure din se kuch nahi khaya tumne."

Bela tries to protest weakly — a tiny shake of her head. Mahir hushes her, lifts the lid, letting the comforting aroma fill the small space.

He breaks a small bite, blows gently on it, and brings it to her lips. Hesitant at first, Bela opens her mouth — the warmth, the simple taste — it melts something heavy inside her chest.

Bela (whispers, eyes moist again):

"Mujhe lagta hai main kabhi kabhi bohot zyada ho jaati hoon, Mahir ji… woh bacche h… woh teeno… main—"

Mahir shakes his head, shushing her again, feeding her the next bite.

Mahir (soft smile):

"Shh.. Chup ekdum abhi.. Khao pehle.. Ho jaata hai, Bela. Tum Maa ho… gussa bhi pyaar se hi nikalta hai. Bas kabhi kabhi woh pyaar thoda zyada zor se bol padta hai. Aur woh teeno? Humesha galtiyaan bhi zyada karte hain… Sambhal lenge sab. Tum ho na."

Bela lets out a tiny laugh through her nose — the sound watery but full of relief. She places her palm on his hand, steadying it, and this time she picks a bite herself.

Bela :

"Mai nhi.. Hum "

She breaks a piece — gently brings it to Mahir’s lips. He tries to tease her — opens his mouth dramatically wide. She laughs again, hits his arm lightly, then feeds him the bite.

Their eyes lock — the kind of quiet where nothing needs to be spoken. He wipes a stray bit of food from her lip with his thumb — her fingers linger on his wrist.

Bela (softly, smiling tiredly):

"Aap na… aap mere sabse bade reward h Mahir ji. Agar aap nahi hote na… toh pata nahi kaise sambhalti mai teeno ko.. Kya karti."

Mahir leans in, kisses her forehead — lingering there for a heartbeat longer.

Mahir (teasing whisper):

"Aur main? Main toh har din is ghar ki principal se taane hoon — par phir bhi sabse zyada lucky hoon."

She giggles — so soft only he can hear. They finish the food in that quiet — feeding each other little bites, wiping each other’s tired tears, hearts calming down where words fail.

When the last morsel is gone, Mahir pulls her gently to lie down. She snuggles against his chest, her breath warm where it rests near his collarbone.

One final sigh — exhaustion melts into warmth.

Wrapped in his arms, Bela whispers drowsily —

Bela (murmur):

"Aap h toh sab thik h... Bas hum dono aur kuch nhi chahiye"

He kisses her hair, whispers back —

Mahir:

"Haan… bas hum."

Their eyes flutter shut — the world’s noise locked outside. Tonight, it’s just the two of them — bruises, scolding, chaos forgotten — drifting to sleep in the safest place they know: each other.

SEHGAL HOUSE — GIRLS’ ROOM — LATE NIGHT

Moonlight spills through the curtains — the room is peaceful. Aashvi and Vanya sleep tangled together like two sleepy kittens. Kikvi snores softly on her side, hugging her pillow.

Suddenly —

WOOF! WOOF! WOOF!

A loud, toy dog alarm barks wildly. Aashvi’s prank alarm clock springs to life at full volume.

Vanya bolts up, eyes wide — then screams.

Vanya (startled shriek):

"Mummmaaa!! Kuttaaa!!"

She clutches Aashvi’s arm so tight that Aashvi squeals too.

Kikvi, half-dreaming about something heroic, flips over — and KICK! Her leg swings out, knocking straight into Aashvi’s back.

All three topple off the bed — THUD THUD THUD! — landing in a squealing, tangled heap on the floor.

Aashvi (grumbling, rubbing her elbow):

"Arre! Kiku! Tune kick kyun maara?!"

Kikvi (half awake, furious):

"Tune kyun giraya mujhe?! Mera haath pakda tha na!"

Vanya (almost crying, glaring at both):

"Main toh chup thi! Mujhe kyu gira diya tum logon ne?!"

WOOF! WOOF! WOOF!

The alarm barks on like an actual puppy in chaos. Vanya shrieks again, jumps to her feet and runs in circles like she’s dodging a real dog.

Vanya (screaming):

"Mummmaaa! Pakad lo isko!!"

Aashvi bursts into unstoppable giggles, clutching her stomach. Kikvi glares at her, then scrambles to find the alarm under a pillow mountain.

Kikvi (yelling):

"Aashi! Band kar isko! Buddhu kahin ki! Mujhe sone de!!"

She finally grabs the barking clock, smacks the button — silence. Vanya jumps into her lap instantly, burying her face.

Kikvi cuddles her, patting her back like a mini-mumma.

Kikvi (muttering, mock strict):

"Bas vanshu… kutta nahi hai… alarm clock hai… drama queen!"

They crawl back onto the bed, trying to settle. But after a few minutes of pin-drop hush —

Vanya (tiny, whiny whisper):

"Kiku… mujhe bhookh lagi hai… mujhe neend nahi aa rahi…"

Aashvi rolls over dramatically, peeking one eye open.

Aashvi (grumbling):

"Haan… mujhe bhi… Papa ne jo khana mangaaya tha na, wo toh kabka pet mein chala gaya…"

Kikvi freezes, wide-eyed — then sheepishly raises her hand like she’s confessing in class.

Kikvi (hushed, guilty giggle):

"Mujhe bhi lagi hai bhookh…"

A beat. Then all three exchange a mischievous look. A tiny devilish grin grows on all their faces.

---

SEHGAL HOUSE — KITCHEN — MOMENTS LATER

The three tiny thieves sneak into the dark kitchen like professional midnight burglars. Kikvi drags the stool over, climbs up, and carefully opens the high shelf.

Aashvi (whispers, excited):

"Haan haan… woh chocolate biscuits nikaal Kiku!"

Vanya (whispers, tugging Kikvi’s night dress):

"Aur chips bhi! Woh bade waale packet!"

Kikvi hands down all the packets like a mini storekeeper. She tiptoes to the fridge, pulls out a chilled juice bottle — pours three tiny glasses with utmost seriousness.

They plop down right there on the kitchen floor, huddled close. They clink their juice glasses together.

Kikvi (dramatically, whisper-cheers):

"Cheers Team Aashvi! Midnight party!"

---

Crumbs scatter instantly. Vanya eyes Aashvi’s biscuit and snatches it mid-bite.

Vanya (fuming, mouth full):

"Yeh mera biscuit hai! Apna khaa na Aashi!"

Aashvi (shrieking, pulling back):

"Arre pagal! Mera hai! Tera toh woh raha!"

Kikvi tries to intervene — holding her glass carefully so it doesn’t spill.

Kikvi (stern, whisper-shout):

"Aashi! Vanu! Chup karo! Itna fight mat karo — Mumma uth jaayengi!"

But the chaos only grows. Aashvi lunges for another packet, Vanya snatches it away. In the scuffle, half the chips rain down like confetti. Kikvi facepalms — then giggles despite herself.

Within minutes, the floor is a battlefield of biscuit crumbs, chip bits, and muffled giggles. The fridge hums — the only witness to Team Aashvi’s secret, messy midnight feast.

And in that crumb-filled, giggly mess — all three forget the scale, the scolding, and the world.

Team Aashvi — unstoppable, unbreakable, and undeniably hungry. 🧃✨🍫

KITCHEN — A FEW MINUTES LATER

The secret party is in full swing. Aashvi and Vanya bicker in whispers over the last chocolate biscuit while Kikvi, cheeks puffed like a squirrel, tries to sip her juice and keep the peace.

Aashvi (hissed whisper):

"Tu har cheez cheen leti hai Vanu! Yeh mera biscuit tha!"

Vanya (mouth full, glaring):

"Toh pehle khaa leti na! Ab mera hai!"

Kikvi tries to push them apart, her tiny palms pressed on their heads.

Kikvi (bossy, whisper-scold):

"Chup dono! Bahut ho gaya. Dekho kitna gandaa ho gaya sab… Mumma uth gayi toh?!"

But it’s too late.

A faint click of the kitchen light switch —

BLINK!

Bright tube light floods the mess. Crumbs everywhere. Chips crushed under tiny feet. Half a juice puddle near the fridge.

Frozen. Three pairs of eyes turn…

…and there stands Bela, arms folded, eyes half-open but her glare sharper than ever — hair messy from sleep but anger radiating like a volcano about to erupt.

Bela (deadly calm):

"Yeh ho kya raha hai?"

Aashvi tries to hide the biscuit behind her back. Vanya freezes mid-bite. Kikvi, juice glass in hand, squeaks out a tiny, guilty:

Kikvi (timid squeak):

"Mumma… woh… midnight picnic tha…?"

Bela’s eyes widen slightly — she takes in the messy floor, the scattered packets, the juice drops near her feet. She breathes in sharply — her voice dangerously low.

Bela (icily):

"Midnight picnic? Kitchen mein? Aur yeh sab kachra? Itni mehnat se sulaya tha tum logon ko? Par… phir se badmashi?"

Aashvi opens her mouth to explain, but Vanya immediately hides behind Kikvi — peeking out like a guilty puppy.

Kikvi, seeing Bela’s rising rage, steps forward — the tiniest shield once again.

Kikvi (brave but trembling):

"Mumma… woh hume bhookh lagi thi na is liye.. Phir yeh dono ladne lage is liye itna ganda ho gaya—"

Bela lifts a finger — sharp — and Kikvi’s excuse dies in her throat.

Bela (stern):

"Accha bhookh lagi thi.. Koi nhi.. Abhi ke abhi — sab crumbs saaf karo. Chips, biscuit, juice — ek bhi tukda nahi dikhna chahiye. Ek bhi kachra idhar udhar dikha toh… samajh lena!"

Aashvi and Vanya giggle . Kikvi who also couldn't control her giggles but mumbles a tiny:

Kikvi (meek):

"Sorry Mumma…"

Bela says nothing — she just stands there, arms folded, eyes blazing — the silent volcano watching her tiny criminals sweep crumbs with tissues and wipe the floor with half-torn kitchen towels.

Aashvi tries to lighten it.

Aashvi (to Kikvi, whispering, half giggling):

"Mera idea hota na toh plan perfect hota… pakde hi nahi jaate!"

Kikvi shoots her a tiny glare — then both burst into muffled giggles while wiping the floor, even as Vanya sniffles but joins in too.

Behind Bela, Mahir peeks in — stifles a laugh at his midnight mischief gang — and quickly ducks away before Bela’s glare can catch him too.

And so the clean-up begins — Team Aashvi, crumb warriors by night, and unstoppable partners in crime forever.

To be continued..