So let's begin!

SEHGAL HOUSE — EARLY MORNING — SUNDAY

The clock barely shows 7:30 AM. The house is still wrapped in that lazy Sunday hush — only the clink of cups and low murmurs come from the kitchen.

Bela, in her crisp uniform, checks her bag for her files. Mahir, buttoning his cufflinks, sips tea between glancing at his phone notifications.

On the dining table sits a tiffin Mahir has packed for himself — beside it, Bela’s file and notepad.

Mahir (teasing, half-smile):

"Sunday hai aaj… par humare liye kab tha Sunday?"

Bela (dry smirk):

"Jab Team Aashvi school jaati hai… ya so rahi hoti hai tab hi milta hai Sunday. Tab tak sab kuch inke naam."

Mahir chuckles. Bela ties her hair in a neat bun, calls out — “Shanti!”

The middle-aged maid rushes in, wiping her hands on her pallu.

Bela (firm, calm):

"Sun Shanti… hum thode der ke liye bahar jaa rahe hain. Mahir sir ki client meeting hai, mujhe thana check karne jaana hai. Yeh teeno jab uth jaayein na… inhe nashta de dena, nahla dena, aur TV dekhne mat dena zyada der. Aur koi shararat karein toh phone kar dena mujhe seedha."

Shanti (nervously nodding):

"Haan madam, aap tension mat lo. Main sambhal loongi. Bas Aashvi baby ko sambhalna mushkil hota hai kabhi kabhi…"

Mahir (laughing under his breath):

"‘Kabhi kabhi’? Bas wohi toh roz hota hai Shanti ji!"

Bela tries not to laugh — she gives Shanti a warm but strict pat on the shoulder.

Bela:

"Theek se dhyaan rakhna. Aur agar kuch bhi zyada ho, phone seedha. Okay?"

They grab their bags — Bela gives one last look at the bedroom door, where the girls are still a lump of blankets. She sighs, shakes her head, and leaves with Mahir.

---

LATER — MID MORNING

Sunlight slips through the curtains. The lump under the blanket stirs — Aashvi’s head pops out first, hair a mess, eyes half shut. She yawns like a sleepy lion cub.

She glances around — no sign of Mumma’s voice, no Papa’s footsteps. Aashvi rubs her eyes, shuffles out to the living room. She sees Shanti arranging plates on the table.

Aashvi (stretching, suspiciously):

"Mumma? Papa?"

Shanti (quickly):

"Baby, woh dono kaam se gaye hain… tum fresh ho jao, main nashta deti hoon—"

But Aashvi’s eyes gleam. She spins on her heel, tiptoes back to the bedroom. Vanya is snoring softly — Kikvi is buried under her blanket fort.

Aashvi pounces on Vanya —

Aashvi (excited whisper):

"Vanu! Uth! Mumma Papa ghar pe nahi hai… samajh rahi hai na?"

Vanya blinks — once — twice — and the mischief lights up in her too.

Vanya (wicked grin, sleepy voice):

"Adventure time?"

Aashvi (bossy whisper):

"Team Aashvi mission — Ghar Jungle banate hain!"

The two tiptoe out — leaving Kikvi snoring, clueless.

---

LIVING ROOM — A WHILE LATER

Shanti pleads from the kitchen door.

Shanti (desperate):

"Arre Aashvi baby! Vanya baby! Pehle nashta toh kar lo… kapde badal lo… mat bhaago itna—"

Too late. WHAM! Aashvi has tied the curtains like a tent over the sofa. Vanya is dragging all the cushions off the couch to make a “mountain fort.”

Aashvi (shouting):

"Yeh dekho Vanu! Sofa mountain! Ab main iske upar se jump karoongi!"

Vanya (giggles):

"Aur main neeche jungle banaungi!"

Shanti runs behind them, catching cushions mid-air, scolding them, but they’re unstoppable whirlwinds — giggling, squealing, diving under tables.

---

KIDS’ ROOM — SAME TIME

All this racket finally cracks Kikvi’s sleep bubble. She sits up — hair sticking up, half a teddy bear clutched to her cheek.

Kikvi (groggy mumble):

"Kya ho raha hai… Yeh dono kaha gaye.. Itna shor kaha ho raha h…Mumma papa kahan h?"

She trudges to the living room doorway — freezes. There’s Aashvi, standing triumphantly on the sofa armrest, pretending to roar like a queen lion. Vanya is crawling with a broom, “hunting bugs.” Cushions, toys, half-eaten biscuits — all scattered like a mini war zone.

Kikvi stands there, clutching her teddy like a judge in pyjamas, watching her sisters wreck the so-called “Sofa Mountain.”

She yawns wide — then narrows her eyes dramatically.

Kikvi (bossy whisper to herself):

“Mumma ne bola tha na — Team Aashvi ki leader main bhi hoon jab Mumma nahi hoti…”

She drops the teddy — rolls up her tiny sleeves — and marches straight into the chaos.

Kikvi (to Aashvi, scolding tone):

"Aashi! Sofa ke upar se neeche utro! Gir gayi toh? Mumma ne bola tha jump mat karna sofa pe!"

Aashvi freezes — mid-roar — balancing like a circus cat. She pouts dramatically.

Aashvi:

"Haww! Tum toh Mumma ban gayi ho kya? Hume order dogi ab?"

Vanya, still under the “sofa jungle,” pokes her head out with a smirk.

Vanya:

"Haan re! Madam Kikvi Inspector ban gayi hai… ab hume arrest karegi kya?"

Kikvi puts both hands on her hips — full drama queen mode.

Kikvi (stern):

"Mumma ki Inspector hoon main! Aur sabse pehle tum dono ko jail bhejungi! Shanti Didi — rope lao!"

Poor Shanti — who is half-buried in scattered pillows — looks up, horrified.

Shanti:

"Arre baba! Main rassi kahan se laaun…! Pehle sab sambhal lo please!"

But Aashvi is unstoppable. She jumps off the sofa with a heroic “Yahoo!” — lands with a thud right next to Kikvi — almost knocking her over.

Aashvi (mock bowing):

"Inspector Madam! Arrest karo mujhe! Dekhte hain kaise pakadti ho!"

She bolts. Vanya squeals and scrambles after her — the two whirl around the dining table, laughing so loud the windows almost rattle.

Kikvi (frustrated tiny roar):

"Aashi! Vanu! Ruko! Tum dono ko mai Mumma ke jail jaane layak banane wali hoon! Waittttt!"

She tries to chase them — trips over a cushion — flop — right onto her tummy. She squeaks, sits up, and shouts more angrily,

Kikvi (determined, tiny):

"Ab main Shanti Didi ko complaint karungi! Dekh lena!"

But before Shanti can even react, Aashvi appears from behind — scoops Kikvi up like a sack of potatoes — and plops her on the “Sofa Mountain” throne.

Aashvi (laughing):

"Ab tu jungle ki rani ban! Hum tera dance show dekhenge — bas chilla mat!"

Kikvi tries to look serious — but Vanya tickles her foot from below the cushions. She squeals — all her Inspector attitude forgotten — and the three sisters dissolve into giggles.

Meanwhile, poor Shanti stands there with her hands on her head — mumbling to herself.

Shanti (defeated, muttering):

"Bhagwan! Mujhe toh in teeno ka jailer bana dete… phir main sambhalti inko!"

---

The Great Jungle Party is in full swing — Team Aashvi in charge — with Kikvi the reluctant queen — and Shanti the helpless referee.

LIVING ROOM & KITCHEN —

Now that Kikvi is crowned Queen Jungle Rani, Aashvi has new plans brewing in that mischievous head of hers.

Aashvi dramatically claps her hands — like a ringleader.

Aashvi (boss mode):

"Team Aashvi ka next adventure — TREASURE HUNT!"

Vanya squeals, pops up from under the cushions.

Vanya (excited):

"Treasure kahan hai? Mujhe chocolate chahiye! Chocolate hi milega na?"

Aashvi points at the kitchen with a villainous grin.

Aashvi:

"Kitchen ke top shelf pe — Mumma ne jo hide kiya tha na — wahi humara treasure hai. Chips! Chocolates! Biscuits! Sab!"

Kikvi gasps — clutching her teddy again for drama.

Kikvi (shocked):

"Par woh Mumma ka secret stock hai! Agar sab finish ho gaya toh?!"

Aashvi flips her hair like a tiny mastermind.

Aashvi:

"Tab tak Mumma ko pata bhi nahi chalega. Abhi toh meeting aur thana mein busy hai. Inspector Kikvi, tu hi toh boli thi — sab safe hai jab tak hum teen saath hai!"

Kikvi’s mouth drops open — she tries to protest — but Vanya’s puppy eyes melt her resolve.

Vanya (pleading, dramatic pout):

"Kiku pleaseeee... bas ek chocolate... mai bhook se mar jaungi!"

Kikvi sighs — beaten by the cuteness.

Kikvi (reluctant but brave):

"Fine. Par bas ek chocolate aur ek chips packet. Zyada nahi!"

---

KITCHEN — FEW MINUTES LATER

Operation Top Shelf Loot in full swing.

Aashvi drags the tiny stool. Vanya drags another. Kikvi supervises — clutching a big steel dabba for “loot collection”.

Aashvi climbs first — balancing like a mountain goat — stretching her arm.

Aashvi (whispers dramatically):

"Vanu! Stool pakadna theek se! Gir gayi toh Operation fail ho jayega!"

Vanya holds the stool — half giggling, half terrified. Kikvi stands under Aashvi, arms wide.

Kikvi:

"Girna mat! Main pakad loongi! Promise!"

Aashvi snatches one chocolate box — then a chips packet — then more chocolates.

Vanya (hissing, impatient):

"Aur le na! Biscuit bhi!"

Aashvi leans further — too far. The stool wobbles dangerously.

Kikvi (shrieks):

"Aashi! Neeche aa jao! Gir jaogi!"

Too late — THUD! — Aashvi crashes down — Vanya trips over her — and Kikvi tries to catch them both — only to be flattened under her sisters and the stolen treasure.

KITCHEN FLOOR —

Shanti appears at the door — freezes.

There, on the floor — Team Aashvi tangled like noodles — biscuit packets and chocolate boxes scattered like confetti.

Shanti (hand on head, exhausted):

"Arre Bhagwan! Tum log phir se! Abhi toh 5 minute pehle bola tha — seedhe baitho!"

Aashvi tries to look innocent, one chocolate hanging from her mouth.

Aashvi (muffled, guilty grin):

"Shanti Didi... bas ek aur minute... treasure hunt complete ho gayi!"

Kikvi squeaks from under them.

Kikvi (tiny voice):

"Shanti Didi... pehle inko uthao... main dab gayi hoon!"

---

The house now looks like mini jungle — part zoo, part sweet shop — and Team Aashvi giggles through the mess, popping biscuits like they won a war.

Poor Shanti — just mutters prayers and picks up the scattered wrappers.

LIVING ROOM — LATE MORNING

The kitchen raid is over, but Team Aashvi? Oh, their engines have just started.

Aashvi, with chocolate smudged on her cheek, suddenly has a new master plan. She jumps onto the sofa, hands on her hips — captain pose.

Aashvi (commanding):

"Sun lo sab! Ab Jungle Rani ka Jungle Adventure hoga! Pure ghar mein. Hum teen jungle mein reh rahe hain. Shanti Didi... Aap ho Sherni!"

Shanti, who’s busy sweeping the biscuit crumbs, looks up in horror.

Shanti:

"Main?! Sherni?! Na baba, main kaam kar rahi hoon, mujhe chhod do!"

But Vanya, with a full mouth of chips, nods furiously.

Vanya (mouth full):

"Haan Shanti Didi... aap Sherni... humein pakad ke jungle se bahar karo!"

Before poor Shanti can refuse, Kikvi squeaks with excitement — she grabs her teddy and declares:

Kikvi (dramatic roar):

"Aur main hoon Jungle Baby Lion! Mujhe koi nahi pakad sakta!"

---

HALLWAY — FEW MINUTES LATER

Operation Catch The Jungle Cubs begins.

Aashvi and Vanya sprint across the hall, ducking behind curtains, under tables — giggling and squealing.

Shanti half-heartedly tries to catch them — broom in one hand, scolding in the other.

Shanti (frustrated):

"Arre ruk jao! Zara ghar toh saaf karne do! Phir pakadti tum logon ko!"

But the girls are unstoppable. Kikvi hides under the dining table — her giggles giving her away.

Aashvi yells from behind the sofa —

Aashvi (shouting orders):

"Sherni ko confuse karo! Vanu — idhar aa, Shanti Didi ke pair mein se nikal!"

Vanya bravely crawls between Shanti’s legs — Shanti yelps.

Shanti (shrieking):

"Arey O Maa! Yeh bacche pagal ho gaye hain poore! Bela Ma’am jaldi wapas aao Bhagwan!"

---

BEDROOM — SAME TIME

New scene — Jungle HQ.

Aashvi climbs the bed, announcing another twist.

Aashvi (serious face):

"Ab hum banayenge Jungle ka swimming pool! Bed pe chadar bichao — pillows side karo — aur yeh raha humara pool!"

Kikvi’s eyes go wide — she claps.

Kikvi:

"Waah! Jungle Rani Zindabad!"

Vanya does a fake dive onto the bed — POOF! — pillows fly, blanket crumples, teddy bears bounce.

Shanti stands frozen at the door — her eyes huge.

Shanti (muttering under breath):

"Main toh ja rahi hoon kitchen mein. Inse toh Bhagwan hi nipat le!"

---

KITCHEN — MOMENTS LATER

Shanti tries to make some dal quietly — suddenly Aashvi pops up at the door with Kikvi on her back like a baby monkey.

Aashvi (sweetly, buttering up):

"Shanti Didi... hum teenon ko bhookh lagi hai... Maggi bana do na? Jungle ka khaana."

Shanti stares at them — ladle in one hand, exasperated smile on her lips.

Shanti (defeated sigh):

"Aree... pehle toh chocolate, chips, biscuits kha liya. Ab Maggi bhi chahiye?"

Vanya nods behind Aashvi’s shoulder — puppy face ON.

Vanya:

"Pleaseeee Shanti Didi! Jungle mein sabko bhookh lagi hai!"

Shanti just shakes her head and mutters to herself —

"Bela Ma’am ko phone lagana padega ab toh... nahin toh ghar Jungle hi ban jayega!"

Shanti Didi, exhausted but surrendering to fate, stirs the Maggi on the stove while side-eyeing the three Mini Monsters sprawled at the dining table.

Aashvi drums her spoon on the plate like a marching band.

Vanya slurps her noodles noisily, feet swinging.

Kikvi’s eyes sparkle at the swirling Maggi strands — hypnotised — mouth covered in sauce.

Shanti (muttering, tired):

"Inse toh thakur ji bhi haar jaaye... ab toh bas jaldi se yeh khaayein aur so jayein Bhagwan."

She turns back to finish sweeping the chaos they made earlier — biscuit crumbs, chips wrappers, teddy bears, toy swords — the Sehgal Jungle now looks like a snack battlefield.

---

DINING TABLE — SAME TIME

While Shanti scrubs the floor, Team Aashvi plots their next strike — their voices dropping to top-secret whispers.

Vanya (poking Aashvi):

"Ab kya kare? Bore ho gayi hoon main... Jungle Adventure khatam ho gaya."

Kikvi doesn’t even look up — she slurps another long noodle, then tries to swirl it on her fork, fascinated.

Kikvi (dreamy, mouth full):

"Mmmm... yummy..."

Aashvi’s eyes light up — the evil genius mode switches ON. She bangs her spoon softly on the table.

Aashvi (hushed but excited):

"Idea! Chalo Mumma ke paas chalte hain! Thane mein surprise denge Mumma ko! Socho kitna maza aayega!"

Vanya’s eyes pop wide — she gasps, thrilled.

Vanya (clapping hands softly):

"Haan! Haan! Hum Thana jaayenge! Wah Aashi! Tum toh best ho!"

But Kikvi pauses mid-bite, noodle half hanging out, frowning.

Kikvi (confused, innocent):

"Par hum jayenge kaise? Kaun leke jayega? Taxi wala kaise baithayega?"

Aashvi smirks, tilts her head with big heroine energy.

Aashvi:

"Hum khud jayenge! Team Aashvi ka next Mission — Mumma Thana Surprise! Paise humare paas hain — piggy bank se lenge!"

Kikvi looks worried — but Vanya’s already convinced, nodding wildly.

---

LIVING ROOM — MOMENTS LATER

Shanti’s back is turned, humming a bhajan to calm herself while scrubbing the sofa.

Tip. Toe. Tip. Toe.

Three tiny shadows sneak behind her — one after the other — like cartoon spies on a secret mission. Kikvi keeps shushing Aashvi who’s humming her own ‘Mission Impossible’ tune.

---

KIDS’ BEDROOM —

Inside, they pull out their sacred treasure — the Piggy Bank. Aashvi flips it, coins tumble onto the floor with a soft jingle.

Vanya tries to count but loses track every time Kikvi pokes the pile with her finger.

Aashvi (proud, counting fast):

"Bas bas! Kaafi hain! Auto mein baith jayenge — hum teenon Thane jaayenge! Mumma ko surprise!"

Kikvi peeks at the coins, then at her sisters — still chewing the last noodle she brought with her in a napkin.

Kikvi (mumbling, half scared, half thrilled):

"Akele jaana safe hai kya? Mumma daantengi toh nahi?"

Aashvi and Vanya: pfft. They’re unstoppable now.

HALLWAY — FEW MINUTES LATER

The three — now dressed in mission clothes: caps, tiny backpacks, shoes on the wrong feet — tiptoe out like Mini Ninjas. They duck behind chairs, peek around doors, gesture each other ahead.

Shanti Didi, still in the kitchen, wipes her forehead and sighs —

"Shaanti ho gayi thodi der ke liye... bhagwaan ka shukr hai."

If only she knew... the real chaos is about to hit the road. 🚨😆

MAIN GATE — MIDDAY

Aashvi peeks from behind the curtain near the front door — eyes scanning for Shanti. Clear. No grown-ups in sight.

Vanya adjusts her tiny bag’s strap and pulls her cap lower, whispering like a pro thief.

Vanya (whispers):

"Ready Captain?"

Aashvi grins — she is Captain obviously. She holds up the piggy bank coins in a pouch.

Aashvi (hero pose):

"Ready! Operation Mumma Thana Surprise — Shuru!"

Kikvi, still worried, clutches her teddy for moral support.

Kikvi (tiny voice):

"Mujhe lagta hai hum pakde jayenge..."

Aashvi:

"Nahi Kiku! Team Aashvi ko koi nahi pakad sakta! Chupchap chalo!"

---

OUTSIDE THE GATE

One by one they tiptoe out — Aashvi leads like a general, Vanya follows, checking behind like a movie bodyguard. Kikvi, smallest tail-end, half scared, half giggling, hugging her teddy tighter.

They squeeze past the side gate — the latch is so loose they barely have to push. Outside the main gate, the road looks like freedom. The auto stand is just a few lanes ahead.

They high-five each other.

Aashvi:

"Mission shuru! Sab chup raho — hum auto pakdenge!"

---

BACK INSIDE — SAME TIME

KITCHEN

Shanti wipes her brow, finally done scrubbing the last trail of biscuit crumbs from the sofa. She hums a filmy song, thinking —

"Ab toh shanti se chai piyungi — bacche bhi shaant hain!"

She peeks into the bedroom. No Team Aashvi.

She frowns.

She checks under the table. Nope.

She rushes to the bathroom door — knocks — empty.

She sprints to the main gate — sees the side latch swinging. Open.

Shanti (shrieks):

"Arre bapu re! Bacche! Bacche bahar kaise gaye?! AASHVI! VANYA! KIKVI!!!"

She runs barefoot to the gate, squinting at the road. In the distance — three tiny heroes seen crossing the lane with a suspiciously heroic strut — coins pouch swinging, Kikvi’s teddy bobbing.

---

ROAD NEAR AUTO STAND

The trio stands at the corner — Aashvi tries to wave at an auto like a big boss lady. Vanya points at every passing rickshaw.

Vanya (excited shout):

"Aashi! Yeh wala! Yeh wala le lo!"

The auto zooms away ignoring them. Kikvi tugs Aashvi’s shirt.

Kikvi (pouting):

"Papa Mumma ko bata denge toh? Jail toh nahi bhejenge na?"

Aashvi (rolling eyes):

"Arre Kiku! Hum surprise dene ja rahe hain! Hero banenge, chor nahi!"

---

MEANWHILE — SHANTI

Shanti, half panic, half world-ending dread, races to the security guard at the front gate.

Shanti (panting):

"Ramu Bhaiya! Bacche bhag gaye! Jaldi auto stand pakdo! Bela Madam ko call karo! Mahir Sir ko call karo! Sabko bolo — Team Aashvi bhag gayi hai!!"

Ramu Bhaiya just nods in disbelief — and dials Mahir’s number.

---

The Sehgal Jungle Commandos have left the building.

NEAR THE AUTO STAND — SIDE LANE

The trio’s stealth operation gets its first Code Red.

Aashvi is scanning the road for an auto when suddenly Kikvi tugs her sleeve — her eyes wide, pointing like a tiny alarm bell.

Kikvi (urgent whisper):

"Aashi! Aashi! Shanti didi! Ramu Bhaiya! Dekho!"

Aashvi turns — and spots Shanti Didi, hair flying, sprinting towards the lane with Ramu Bhaiya panting behind her. Both scanning left and right like police on a crime hunt.

Aashvi (mutters):

"Arre baap re! Pakde gaye toh ghar pe jail pakki!"

But before she can panic more, Vanya — the unexpected stealth genius — grabs both their wrists and drags them behind a fat roadside tree.

---

BEHIND THE TREE

Team Aashvi’s three heads pop out and hide again like cartoon meerkats. Kikvi is crouched low, hugging her teddy to her mouth to hide her giggles.

Vanya hushes them with a finger on her lips.

Vanya (hushed):

"Agar pakde gaye toh Mumma waali scale yaad hai na? Shanti didi ko sab batana hoga!"

Aashvi tries peeking again — Ramu Bhaiya and Shanti Didi are now asking the nearby chai wala.

Shanti (breathless, yelling):

"Bhaiya! Chhote chhote bacche dekhe kya idhar bhaagte hue?! Do judwa h.. Ek jaise dikhte h thode, ek thodi lambi — teenon ek saath!"

The chai wala shakes his head with a lazy shrug. Shanti mutters something like “Bela Madam mujhe kaat daalengi!”

---

INSIDE THE HIDING SPOT

Aashvi watches Shanti and Ramu Bhaiya wander away towards the main road, still searching every gali corner.

She wipes imaginary sweat from her forehead.

Aashvi (hero whisper):

"Bach gaye re Baba! Mission fail hone se pehle bach gaye!"

Kikvi clutches her teddy tighter.

Kikvi (softly scolding):

"Maine bola tha na, hum pakde jayenge — dekho kaise Shanti didi police ban gayi thi!"

Vanya smirks, brushing dirt off her frock.

Vanya:

"Ab chup raho Kiku. Captain Aashi — ab kya?"

Aashvi peeks out — coast clear. She takes charge, nose up, mischief fully loaded again.

Aashvi (grinning):

"Ab aur chup rehna ka time nahi. Seedha chalo! Warna pakde jaayenge. Jaldi!"

---

A FEW LANES AHEAD — PANI PURI STALL

But before they can go further — Vanya’s steps slow down. She suddenly plops herself dramatically onto a small bench near a pani puri stall. She’s puffing like a tired puppy.

Vanya (pouting):

"Mere pair dukh rahe hain! Mujhe aur nahi jaana!"

Aashvi folds her arms, pretending to be the annoyed captain.

Aashvi:

"Abhi toh Mission Mumma Thana Surprise shuru hua hai! Tum dono aise kaise thak gaye?"

Vanya shows her dusty shoes like they’re evidence.

Vanya (complaining cutely):

"Itna chal liye! Mujhe aur bhookh lagi hai! Mujhe pani puri chahiye!"

Meanwhile, Kikvi also plops down next to her, tossing her teddy on her lap, too tired to lecture anyone this time.

Kikvi (tiny sigh):

"Thoda sa rest le lo Captain Aashi… nahi toh main bhi so jaungi yahin!"

Aashvi’s ‘Captain’ pose deflates for two seconds — then she plops down too. As pani puri was Aashvi's weakness.

PANI PURI STALL — SAME TIME

The Sehgal Jungle Commandos have officially declared Mission Thana Surprise on hold — thanks to tired feet, growling tummies, and unstoppable mischief.

Vanya is first to raise her hand like she’s ordering in a hotel.

Vanya (bossy tone, to pani puri bhaiya):

"Bhaiya! Mujhe teen sukhi puri, teen pani puri… aur ek aur teen sukhi puri!"

The pani puri wala — an old uncle with a faded gamcha — blinks at her, amused.

Pani Puri Bhaiya (teasing):

"Aree madam! Sukhi puri bhi teen aur pani puri bhi teen? Paani se kya dushmani hai?"

Vanya pouts and points to Kikvi and Aashvi sitting beside her.

Vanya (proudly):

"Mere do commando bhi hain — woh pani waali khayenge, main sukhi khayungi!"

Aashvi claps her hands like a boss.

Aashvi:

"Aur bhaiya, dhyan se dena. Paani ka taste acha nahi hua toh hum aage nahi badhenge! Mission fail ho jayega!"

Kikvi, meanwhile, is busy counting coins on her frock, tongue peeking out in full concentration.

Kikvi (muttering to herself):

"Ek, do, teen… yeh wala teddy waale piggy bank se tha… yeh ice cream waala paisa tha… bas bas, itna hi hai!"

Pani Puri Bhaiya starts serving. He dips the puri into tangy water and places one each in the kids’ tiny palms.

The girls take the first bite — and for two seconds, all is peaceful. They munch like chipmunks.

Then the chaos resumes.

Vanya (mouth full, scolding Aashvi):

"Tu captain toh sabse zyada kyun khayegi kya? Mere sukhi puri bhi kha gayi?!"

Aashvi, cheeks stuffed, tries to defend herself.

Aashvi (muffled):

"Maine nahi li! Wo toh kiku ne khaayi thi!"

Kikvi looks scandalised — cheeks also full.

Kikvi (offended, points at Aashvi):

"Jhooth! Maine toh sirf pani wali khaayi h! Teri Sukhi puri khane ka kaam toh Captain Aashi ka hota hai!"

Pani Puri Bhaiya stands behind his thela, laughing under his breath as the three start arguing like they own the street.

In the middle of this mini parliament, Vanya spots the leftover pani puri water in the big pot and gets a wicked idea.

She picks up the small plastic spoon from the counter, dips it in the tangy water — and flicks it at Aashvi’s arm.

SPLASH!

Aashvi gasps dramatically.

Aashvi (angry):

"Vanuuu! Tune mujhe pani maara?! Ab dekh main kya karti hoon!"

Next second, Aashvi picks a puri, dips it extra deep in water and aims at Vanya’s mouth — who squeals, covering her face.

Meanwhile, Kikvi tries to stop them — but ends up getting a splash herself.

Now Pani Puri Bhaiya is standing with hands on hips.

Pani Puri Bhaiya (pretend scolding):

"Arre badmash baccho! Yaha pani puri kha rahe ho ya Holi khel rahe ho?!"

All three giggle — faces dripping with spicy water.

Finally, they realise they’re out of coins. Aashvi checks Kikvi’s tiny purse — empty.

Vanya tries puppy eyes.

Vanya (sweetly, to bhaiya):

"Bhaiya… ek aur milega free mein? Please? Team Aashvi ka promise, jab Mummy ko bataayenge toh double paise de denge!"

Pani Puri Bhaiya just waves them off with a laugh — gives them each a sukhi puri extra for free, muttering, “Jaao jaao, mini don log!”

---

SAME STREET — ICE CREAM STALL

Team Aashvi is back on the move — or so they thought.

They’ve just wiped pani puri masala off their chins when… bam! — like destiny’s trap — an ice cream stall pops up ahead.

The neon board says “Super Cool Cones!” and the glass counter is stacked with colourful scoops.

One look at that — and Vanya’s feet freeze.

Vanya nudges Aashvi.

Aashvi looks at Kikvi.

Next second — the three mini commandos are standing in a line like hungry kittens, peeking at the cones.

---

Vanya (puppy pout, whispering to Aashvi):

"Aashi… mujhe chocolate wala chahiye… bohot thanda bohot tasty…"

Aashvi (eyeing Kikvi):

"Par paise? Kiku, kitna bacha hai?"

Kikvi opens her tiny purse again — shakes it.

A grand total of two coins clink around sadly.

---

Kikvi (confused, counting on fingers):

"Auto ka paisa… pastry Mummy ke liye… iske baad toh ice cream ka paisa nahi bachega…"

The twins look at each other — ice cream cones almost dancing in front of their eyes.

Aashvi’s brain goes click.

Her eyes dart to two school girls standing near the cart — both in loose denims, one in an oversized T-shirt and ponytail falling over her shoulder, the other giggling into her phone.

Aashvi’s mischief radar locks on target.

She tiptoes to the girl in the flared jeans and oversized T-shirt.

Softly, she tugs her tee from the side.

Aashvi (sweetest fake smile, sugar-dripping voice):

"Didi… Didi… suno na… please?"

The girl pauses mid-laugh, looks down — finds this tiny tornado with big eyes and innocent lashes.

Oversized T-shirt Didi (surprised, amused):

"Haan? Kya hua baby? Kahan se aayi ho itni chhoti madam?"

Behind Aashvi, Vanya peeks out with her puppy face. Kikvi too tries to look extra tiny and helpless.

Aashvi (dramatic, hand on chest):

"Didi… hum na Mummy ke liye surprise leke jaa rahe hain… humko ice cream bhi khani thi par… paise khatam ho gaye… bas thoda sa bacha hai… auto ke liye bhi dena h… aap humko ek chhoti wali ice cream dilwa do na… please didi! Aap toh bohot achhi lag rahi ho… bilkul hero didi jaise!"

Vanya nods eagerly — eyes blinking double speed.

Kikvi adds her secret weapon — she folds her hands in namaste pose.

The Oversized T-shirt Didi looks at her friend — the Crop Top Didi — both try not to giggle at this adorable scam.

Crop Top Didi (teasing, whispers to friend):

"Arre dekh na na bechariyon ko… kitne sweet hain yeh teenon!"

Oversized T-shirt Didi (to Aashvi, mock strict):

"Pakka? Ice cream khaake ghar jaoge seedha? Mummy ko tang nahi karoge?"

Aashvi salutes instantly.

Aashvi (serious face):

"Yes Didi! Team Aashvi ka promise! Hum bahut acche bache hain!"

ICE CREAM STALL — MOMENTS LATER

Now armed with big chocolate cones, the Team Aashvi trio sit like little squirrels on the pavement edge — licking away, faces smeared with ice cream moustaches.

Meanwhile, Akshika (Oversized T-shirt Didi) and Vanshika (Crop Top Didi) stand nearby, sipping cold drinks, watching them — thoroughly entertained by this tiny, messy gang.

Aashvi (mouth half full, suddenly tugging Akshika’s tee again, blinking up cutely):

"Didi… aap dono ka naam kya hai? Itne cute ho dono… par naam toh batao na!"

Akshika raises an eyebrow, amused. Vanshika giggles.

Akshika (smiling, points to herself):

"Mera naam Akshika hai…"

Vanshika (waving a little, grin wide):

"Aur main Vanshika!"

The moment they say this, Aashvi and Vanya exchange a dramatic look — mouths frozen mid-bite.

Aashvi (mumbles, tongue-tied, trying to say it, fumbles terribly):

"Akk… Aksi… kashika…? Akshi-ka… Vanshi… Vanshi-ka…?"

Vanya also tries — same result. Both mess it up, badly.

Vanya (makes a pout, big eyes):

"Areee… itna bada naam kyu rakha aapke Mumma Papa ne! Dekho mujhe toh bolna bhi nahi aa raha… chhota naam batao na didi!"

Akshika and Vanshika exchange a look — and burst into a soft laugh at the same time.

Akshika bends down, gently tugs Aashvi’s sticky cheek.

Akshika (fondly teasing):

"Achha baba… thik hai! Tum mujhe Akshu didi bol lo… aur inko (points to Vanshika) Vanshu didi! Theek hai?"

Aashvi and Vanya instantly jump up — cones still in hand — squealing like puppies.

Aashvi (happily):

"Yay! Thank you Akshu didi! Thank you Vanshu didi!"

Vanya claps her cone hand — chocolate drips on her chin — and giggles.

Vanya (pointing at Vanshika, excited):

"Vanshu didi! Hum dono ka naam same same hai! Aap Vanshu, main Vanu! Dekho, kitna cute lagta hai na!"

Vanshika laughs, bends down, softly pulls Vanya’s chubby cheeks.

Vanshika (playful):

"Bilkul cute lagta hai! Meri chhoti Vanu! Same to same!"

Akshika laughs and points at Aashvi.

Akshika (mock scolding, loving tone):

"Aur yeh wali bilkul meri tarah badmash! Kya jugaad lagaya free ice cream ke liye… naughty piece!"

Aashvi gives her a sheepish grin — chocolate all over her teeth.

Suddenly, Kikvi finishes her last bite, rummages in her tiny bag — and pulls out two colorful toffees.

She waddles up to Akshu and Vanshu — her eyes shiny with gratitude.

Kikvi (serious baby voice, handing them toffees):

"Yeh aapke liye. Thank you. Ab neeche aao…"

Akshu and Vanshu share a confused smile but crouch down to her level.

Kikvi gently hugs both around their necks — tiny arms squeezing tight.

"Aap dono bohot acche ho… sabse acche. Thank you didi's… ice cream ke liye."

Akshu kisses her forehead. Vanshu ruffles her hair.

The three look like a mini secret gang in that quiet moment — three little runaways and two new street sisters.

---

MOMENTS LATER

Akshu didi and Vanshu didi are wiping melted chocolate off Kikvi’s cheeks when Vanshu suddenly asks — curiosity peeking through her grin.

Vanshu (leaning down, tilts her head):

"Waise, chhoti gang… tum log jaa kahan rahe ho? Kahan jaana hai tum teenon ko?"

Kikvi — with her cutest serious face — blurts out proudly.

Kikvi (tiny voice, matter-of-fact):

"Mahila Police Thana jaana hai. Mumma ko surprise dena hai."

Akshu and Vanshu freeze. They share a WHAT? look — like someone just told them aliens landed at the ice cream cart.

Akshu (stammering, eyes wide):

"Police Thana?! Tum teeno? Itne chhote chhote??"

Vanshu folds her arms — goes into strict elder sister mode — brows knitted.

Vanshu (stern, sharp tone):

"Tum teeno… bina kisi ko bataye ghar se bahar nikal aaye ho? Haan? Batao?!"

Aashvi, Vanya and Kikvi instantly drop their ice creams. The puppy faces switch on — big watery eyes, heads bobbing like guilty ducks.

Aashvi nods. Vanya nods harder. Kikvi hides behind Vanya’s arm — then peeks out to nod too.

Akshu (trying to scold, wagging a finger):

"Aree wah! Bohot badi chalak party ho tum log! Koi aise nikalta hai kya bina bataye? Mummy Papa ko pata chale toh—"

She tries to hold her stern voice… but one look at the three puppy faces — her scolding melts mid-air.

She sighs, gives up — and flicks Aashvi’s nose instead.

Akshu (pouting herself):

"Arre Vanshu… mujhe toh gussa hi nahi aata in pe! Dekh kitne cute hain yaar! Banda kya daante in bandaro ko?"

Vanshu tries to glare… but snorts a laugh — arms dropping.

Vanshu (chuckling, shaking her head):

"Haan… tu toh bas chocolate khila! Main hi Hitler hoon! Bandariya kahin ki!"

Aashvi, Vanya and Kikvi giggle — then tackle-hug both sisters at once, squealing in chorus.

Vanya (muffled in Vanshu’s shirt):

"Vanshu didi sabse best ho! Akshu didi bhi sabse best!"

Akshu (hugging them back, mock drama):

"Haan haan… lekin ab hum dono tumhe akela nahi jaane denge! Police station koi park nahi hai! Hum hi drop karenge — samjhi chalak party?"

Vanshu (pointing a mock warning finger):

"Aur auto mein seedha baithna… koi drama nahi — warna police station se pehle main hi tum logon ko jail mein band kar dungi!"

Team Aashvi — tails wagging, all nod like obedient ducklings — then burst into giggles again.

---

MAHILA POLICE THANA — MAIN DESK — MIDDAY

Inside the bustling women’s police station, files shuffle, phones ring, constables murmur over chai cups.

At the main desk, SHO Bela Sehgal leans over a thick register, pointing at a page — her brows knitted in full no-nonsense mode.

A lady constable hustles in — half grinning, half panting — leans to the inspector, whispers something.

The inspector glances at Bela — mouth twitches to hide a smile.

Inspector (low chuckle):

"Madam… lagta hai aaj ka sabse bada case toh aapke liye hi hai."

Bela frowns — straightens up, half confused.

She turns — and the heavy iron gate swings open with a creak.

And in marches Team Aashvi.

Front and centre: Aashvi — chest puffed like a hero, half-eaten chocolate gripped like a trophy.

Behind her, Vanya waddles carefully, guarding her pastry box like treasure.

Little Kikvi clings to Akshu’s hand, clutching a tiny rose in the other — eyes wide at the giant “MAHILA POLICE THANA” sign.

And behind them — Akshu and Vanshu — herding this rogue mini army, looking equal parts bodyguards and babysitters.

Aashvi (loud whisper to Kikvi, pointing everywhere):

"Dekh Kiku! Kitni saari police wali aunty! Aur wahan Mumma ka cabin bhi! Wow na!"

Bela’s eyes widen — her pen slips from her fingers, clatters onto the desk.

She just stares — disbelief, half horror, half that “not again” mom-face.

Bela (flat, stunned tone to the Inspector):

"Yeh… yeh mere hi bacche hain."

The inspector bites his knuckle to stop a laugh.

Aashvi spots her mother — face lights up like Diwali.

She drops her chocolate on her own shoe — doesn’t care — charges.

Aashvi (yelling):

"Mummaaaa! Surpriseeeee!"

She sprints — Vanya tries to follow but her pastry box flips — half the pastry hits the floor.

Kikvi tries to rescue it — bends down — but Akshu yanks her back just in time.

Akshu (nervous smile, talking so fast words jumble):

"Ma’am sorry! Hum… bas drop kar rahe the — ye teenon akele… road pe jaa rahe the — humko laga unsafe hai — isliye—"

Vanshu (jumps in, half scolding Aashvi, half explaining):

"Aur madam ne toh ice cream ke jugaad se humko fasaya bhi! Badmaash hai yeh teenon, Ma’am! Sorry — par humne socha akela chhodna galat hota — toh bas—"

Bela stands there — arms folded — expression switching between wanting to laugh, cry and explode — all at once.

Bela (dry, calm sarcasm — ice thin):

"Bahut badi surprise party chalu hai na? Mahila Thana mein? Ice cream treat bhi ho gayi? Aur ghar se akele nikal aaye? Shanti Didi ne kuch nahi bataya? Itni badi himmat?"

She shoots an eyebrow at Akshu and Vanshu — that “And you two?” stare.

Before they can speak, Aashvi blurts — pouting, like a badge of honour:

Aashvi (points at Akshu, proudly):

"Yeh Akshu didi hain! Sabse best! Ice cream dilayi!"

Vanya, not to be left behind, points at Vanshu:

"Aur yeh Vanshu didi! Mumma… Vanshu didi aur main — same same! Dekho — Vanshu, Vanu — cute h na?"

One glare from Bela — both freeze like statues.

Kikvi, pulling out her final magic trick, steps forward — tiny rose held high like a peace flag.

Kikvi (tiny hopeful voice):

"Mumma… yeh aapke liye. Rose. Accha hai na?"

Aashvi quickly shoves her half-eaten chocolate at Bela.

Vanya, not to be left out, offers the survivor half of her pastry — the other half still smeared on her lip.

Bela wants to laugh — her lips almost curve — but she traps it. One flicker — gone — her stare sharpens back.

The trio instantly gulp — and murmur together, heads down:

"Sorry Mumma…"

Bela sighs — then turns to Akshu and Vanshu. Her voice softens but her SHO authority remains solid.

Bela (genuine gratitude, eyes kind):

"Akshu… Vanshu… thank you so much, really. Agar tum dono inko safe yahan nahi leke aate toh pata nahi kis gali, kis road pe bhatak rahe hote yeh. I’m grateful — both as a mother and as an officer. God bless you both. Good luck for everything ahead."

Akshu & Vanshu (exchanging a ‘bless these devils’ look):

"Ma’am, pleasure tha! Nice meeting you! Aur… best of luck… Mumma ko! Humein pata hai in teenon ka energy level!"

They crouch — pat Kikvi’s head, high-five Aashvi, squeeze Vanya’s cheek — salute Bela, hustle out giggling.

The station settles back — except at the main desk — where Team Aashvi stand frozen, pastry crumbs stuck on their uniforms, their SURPRISE plan now a horror film.

Bela just taps her fingers on her arm — one eyebrow arches — so sharp Aashvi squeaks, Vanya hides behind Kikvi’s tiny shoulder, Kikvi hides behind the half pastry box.

Bela (icily sweet, a whisper of doom):

"Bahut badi police ban gaye ho tum log? Chalo… andar. Abhi ke abhi."

BELA’S CABIN —

A small, spotless room. The desk is clean, files stacked in precise order. A cup of chai sits forgotten, cold. The chill isn’t from the tea — the real frost is about to drop.

Team Aashvi stands in a crooked line across from the desk — three pint-sized culprits pretending to be statues. Hands locked behind their backs, shirts dotted with dried ice cream stains they hope Mumma won’t see.

Bela shuts the door — one solid thud that makes them flinch. She doesn’t sit. Instead, she circles them once, arms folded tight, eyes sharp as a hawk sizing up prey.

Bela (voice smooth as steel):

"Toh… Thana ghoom aaye sab? Pani puri, ice cream, surprise — sab ho gaya? Ab mujhe yeh batao… ghar se bina bataye nikalne ka idea kisne diya?"

Aashvi’s mouth opens — but Vanya squeaks first.

Vanya (tiny voice, clutching a pastry box like a shield):

"Aashi ne bola tha Mumma… idea uska tha… main toh bas—"

Aashi shoots her a death glare, elbows her hard.

Aashvi (trying sweet drama, big eyes at Bela):

"Mumma woh… hum bas aapko surprise dena chahte the… aap itna kaam karti ho na… toh humne socha—"

Kikvi suddenly pipes up, sniffly, eyes big with pretend innocence.

Kikvi (sacrificing herself nobly):

"Mumma maine toh mana kiya tha… par Aashi boli ki yeh surprise thana mission hai… aapko khush karna hai… phir ice cream dikhi toh bhookh lag gayi… toh Akshu didi aur Vanshu didi ko bhi bula liya…"

She hugs her teddy like a life vest.

Bela lifts a hand — just one finger up. Silence drops like a hammer.

Bela (low and lethal):

"Chup. Ek aur shabd bola toh seedha Thane ke lock-up mein daal dungi sabko. Aur wahan ice cream toh door, pani puri bhi nahi milegi. Samjhe?"

Aashvi swallows. Vanya’s pastry box slips — splat. Kikvi looks ready to cry, faint, or both.

Finally, Bela sits. Arms cross on the desk, she leans forward, eyes narrowed — calm in that terrifying Mumma way.

Bela (dead calm):

"Tum logon ko zara bhi samajh hai? Agar Akshu Vanshu nahi milte toh? Agar koi galat aadmi mil jata toh? Kaise jaate? Kaise dhoondti main? Ek baar bhi phone karne ki akal nahi aayi?"

Aashvi’s lips wobble — she tries her puppy face, her last card. Fail.

Aashvi (whispers, tiny):

"Sorry Mumma… agli baar nahi—"

Bela (cuts in, sharper than a knife):

"Agli baar? Agli baar ayega hi nhi. Ab ghar jaake samajh aayega kya hota hai surprise. Tum teeno ka adventure abhi khatam nahi hua."

Three terrified nods — heads bobbing like guilty ducklings.

Bela picks up her phone — dials.

Bela (into phone, cold and calm):

"Haan Mahir ji… haan… mil gaye aapke detective bacche… PURE MISSION ke saath. Haan ghar mein mil lijiyega… aur haan… scale ready rakhiye."

Aashvi. Vanya. Kikvi. — one collective squeak, eyes wide in horror.

Bela ends the call. Stands. Smiles — sweet, but her eyes promise thunder.

Bela (fake-sweet):

"Chalo… ab ghar. Team Aashvi ka naya adventure — Mumma Special Punishment."

Outside the glass, the lady constables watch — some cover their giggles, others exchange looks. The inspector mutters under his breath — “Maa ka danda sabse bada danda.”

---

SEHGAL HOUSE — LIVING ROOM — LATE AFTERNOON

The front door creaks open.

Bela storms in like a one-woman army, Team Aashvi in tow — Aashvi, Vanya, Kikvi — trailing behind in a miserable single file. Each clutches their half-squished pastry box, sleeves sticky with melted ice cream, eyes already brimming with regret.

Near the sofa stands Mahir — arms folded, one eyebrow arched, the dreaded scale tapping gently against his palm like a drumroll of doom.

The moment the trio see him, they freeze.

Aashvi leans sideways, whispers behind her hand to Vanya:

"Bhaag le Vanu… Mumma aur Papa dono ready hain… gaye hum log aaj!"

Too late.

Bela raises one finger — the universal ‘Khade raho, hilna mat’ signal.

Mahir (dead calm, words razor-sharp):

"Bina bataye ghar se ghoomne nikle? Pura sheher ghoom liya? Ice cream party? Thane mein drama? Wah Team Aashvi — bohot bade detective ban gaye sab?"

Aashvi tries a nervous grin — it melts faster than their ice cream.

Vanya (tiny mumble, hugging her pastry like a shield):

"Papa… mujhe toh bas pastry chahiye thi… main toh—"

Mahir (cuts her off, stern):

"Pastry ghar pe nahi milti thi? Thane mein milegi? Kya plan tha? Mummy ko arrest karwane chale the sab milke?"

Kikvi sniffles — big eyes brimming — she tries the last move in her bag: folded hands, squeaky voice.

Kikvi (voice wobbly):

"Papa sorry… hum teeno miss kar rahe the na Mumma ko… isliye gaye the… aap mujhe daant lo bas…"

But Mahir’s not melting.

He squats down, eye to eye with Kikvi — his tone softer, but unyielding.

Mahir (firm but gentle):

"Achha? Din bhar Mumma ko tang karte ho tab yaad nhi aati mumma ki.. Aaj sabko line se yaad aa gayi , aur jab mann kiya toh bhaag gaye? Aur Kiku — hum sabko pyaar se samjhaate hain, samajh mein aaye toh theek, nahi aaye toh scale bhi samjha deta hai. Tum teenon ek team ho na? Team Aashvi? Toh punishment bhi team mein milegi, samjhi?"

Kikvi’s lips quiver — Aashvi elbows her, hissing under her breath: “Bohot bolti hai tu!”

Vanya squeezes her pastry tighter, as if it might shield her from doom.

Bela’s voice slices through — cold, unshakable.

Bela (ice calm):

"Haath aage karo. Line mein. Abhi samjhaati hoon main ghar se bhaag ke ‘mission’ karna kya hota hai."

Three tiny palms inch forward — trembling.

Mahir steps back, arms folded — silent backup for Mumma’s hurricane mode.

Bela (raises scale, sharp):

"Aashi — pehle tu. Sabse badi leader hai na? Mission plan bhi tumhara hi hota hai na?"

THAP! — Aashvi squeaks — her eyes water but she stands still, jaw clenched.

Bela (turns to Vanya):

"Vanu? Pyaari innocent acting mein sabse badi, par team mein saath bhi sabse pehle deti hai na?"

THAP! — Vanya’s pastry box hits the floor with a sad splat. She sniffles, blinking back tears.

Bela (finally, Kikvi):

"Aur Madam detective. Sabko puppy face dikha ke pighla deti hai na? 'Mana karti hoon mumma' karke bhi theek dono ka saath deti ho.. Ab scale dekho."

THAP! — Kikvi lets out a tiny yelp — clutches her teddy tighter, mumbling: “Sorry Mumma…”

Mahir gestures enough — but Bela lifts an eyebrow: Not done yet.

Bela (arms folded, deadly calm):

"Ab murga bano. Teeno. Sofa ke saamne. 5 minute. Tab tak Mumma Papa ki chai banegi. Hilega toh double padega. Samjhe?"

Three tiny murgas bend — squatting awkwardly, heads ducked, whimpering in chorus.

Mahir settles on the sofa — tries to keep a straight face but a grin tugs at his lips. He pats Bela’s shoulder — amused whisper:

Mahir (low, teasing):

"Madam Police — bas karo ab. Team Aashvi ka next mission shayad jail se hi plan ho ab!"

Bela glares — then sighs — the edges of her anger softening into a tired, fond smile. She looks at her three murgas — her chaos, her headache, her entire world.

Bela (murmurs, half-exasperated, half-laughing):

"Team Aashvi. Ek din yeh sach mein jail bhej ke hi dum lenge mujhe."

The living room fills with Mahir’s muffled chuckle — and three tiny giggles echo under the sofa lamp, punishment pose and all.

---

CITY HOTEL ROOM — NIGHT

A small but warm hotel room — two single beds pushed side by side, half-zipped suitcases spilling clothes and books like little islands of chaos.

Akshu and Vanshu tumble onto the beds, breathless with laughter, still buzzing from the day’s madness. They’re far from home, yes — but not alone. At just fourteen, they’ve got each other — and an extended family scattered around this new city. A small hotel tonight, maybe a hostel or rented room tomorrow — but for now, it’s theirs.

Akshu’s still in her loose jeans and oversized tee, hair pinned back with that same old banana clip. Vanshu has kicked off her shoes and is tying her hair up in a messy bun, grinning ear to ear.

Akshu (arms flung wide, giggling):

"Arre Vanshu… yaad hai Aashvi ka face? Kitni badi badmashi! Ice cream, auto… aur seedha Thana! Kitni himmat thi teenon Mein! Aashvi ko dekh ke mujhe mera bachpan yaad aa gaya yaar.. Mast daring bacchi thi wo "

Vanshu (wipes a tear of laughter, mimics Aashvi’s dramatic pout):

"‘Mummaaaa surpriseeee!’ — Arey bechari Ma’am ka face dekh… main toh has has ke pagal ho gayi thi!"

They both crack up again — Vanshu hurls a pillow, Akshu ducks, it bounces off the half-open suitcase. Akshu tosses it back but Vanshu dives under the blanket, squealing.

Akshu grabs her phone — eight missed calls from Mom. She quickly types, “Reached safe Mumma! Love you! Good night!” and hits send with a small smile.

Vanshu crawls out, plugs in the kettle.

"Chal… ab serious. Kal se school. Nayi class, naye teachers… aur hum dono madam direct mid-term se entry maar rahe hain — samajh rahi hai kitna mushkil hoga?"

Akshu rolls her eyes so dramatically you’d think they’ll pop out.

"Arre — difficult hoga but impossible nahi. Sab set ho jayega! Kyunki hum hai — TEAM UNSTOPPABLE! Hero banenge, topper banenge — sab first class!"

They bump fists — soft superhero theme in the air only they can hear.

The kettle whistles — Vanshu pours two mugs of steaming water, drops in the instant noodles. They sit cross-legged on one bed, sharing the warm bowl, steam curling around their tired faces.

Akshu (mouth full, still dreamy):

"Mujhe toh yeh sheher abhi se pasand hai… log bhi ache mil gaye pehle din se. Team Aashvi toh mast welcome party thi na!"

Vanshu (nods, twirls her fork, teasing):

"Haan — adventure bhi free mein mila. Waise kal uniform mein mast dikhna hai… koi golmaal nahi… warna principal madam seedha ghar phone lagayengi."

They glance at the new uniforms hanging on the cupboard door — crisp white shirts, pleated skirts, neat socks folded on polished shoes. A tiny promise of all the mornings to come.

Akshu jumps up, inspects her skirt in the mirror — does a small twirl.

"Perfect fit! Books bhi pack kar le. Kal subah warzone nahi banana mujhe!"

They shuffle to the desk — fresh notebooks, shiny textbooks, pencil pouch zipped tight. Bags packed, propped by the door like loyal guards waiting for morning.

Vanshu picks up her phone, opens their tiny three-person group chat. She types: “All packed! Waiting for you… jaldi aa jaana!” She hits send — the screen glows back soft hope.

Akshu flops down beside her, shoulder pressing shoulder. They scroll through old pictures — goofy selfies with Mum and Dad, birthday cakes, farewell hugs with old school friends. For a moment, their smiles flicker — a ghost of homesickness. But they lean in closer, and it’s enough.

Akshu (yawns, playful slap to Vanshu’s arm):

"Chal… ab so ja. Kal se double hero mode on. Nai jagah, nai books, nai masti — hum na hote toh kitna boring hota yeh sab!"

Vanshu (switches off the lamp, burrows into her blanket):

"Haan madam — hum na hote toh yeh duniya hi boring hoti! Good night, my teddy"

Akshu (pokes her forehead, grins):

"Good night, my Vani!"

They giggle one last time — the lights fade — the city murmurs just beyond the curtains. Two sisters, a borrowed room, a thousand tomorrows — and not a shred of fear. Just dreams, warm and wide open.

To be continued..