So let’s begin,

[SEHGAL HOUSE – LIVING ROOM]

Somehow, wincing and groaning, they manage to shower and get ready. Now all set, they carefully support each other while walking down the stairs.

But the sight awaiting them at the bottom makes both of them pause—sadness and a tinge of jealousy flashing across their faces.

There, in the living room, Team Aashvi with Mahir and Bela are enjoying a warm cuddle-filled family moment, laughter echoing softly.

Akshu (whispering, a little pouty):

“Yaar, na chahte hue bhi ab toh mujhe jealousy ho rahi hai… Kitne pyaare lag rahe hain sab.”

Vanshu (sighs, half-smiling):

“Haan… pyaare toh lag rahe hain. Lekin abhi jaa kar unhe disturb karna sahi nahi hoga.”

Khushi (observing quietly):

“Hmm… Ma’am ka yeh maa wala roop dekh kar samajh aata hai ki ek insaan ke do role kitne alag ho sakte hain… Waise neeche tak aa hi gaye hain toh mandir chalte hain. Wapas upar Jaane ki himmat nhi h ekdum.”

Akshu (rolling her eyes at Khushi):

“Haan wahi sahi rahega… waise bhi tumhare nahane ke chakkar mein mai toot gayi hoon.”

Vanshu (groaning dramatically):

“Arre band toh meri baj gayi hai tum dono ke chakkar mein! Isse accha toh hostel mein reh lete… wahan itne rules toh nahi hote. Aur yeh maar… ufff! Kya haal bana diya body ka. Ek accha khaase insaan ko zebra bana diya!”

The three finally share a laugh, shaking their heads at each other’s complaints. Slowly, they walk into the mandir and stand with folded hands in front of Krishna, their earlier jealousy giving way to quiet prayer.

[Mandir Corner – Morning]

The trio sat down cross-legged, trying to fold their hands, though their aching bodies protested with every move.

Akshu (looking at idol, muttering dramatically):

“Hey Murlidhar… kaha fasa diya aapne mujhe… kaha no rules aur freedom wali life… aur yaha toh puri rules aur jail mai bandh kar diya… free ki maar alag. Aur upar se in dono ke saath mujhe bhi fasa diya… yeh toh cheating hai.”

Unknowingly, her voice carried to the living room. Mahir, Bela, and Team Aashvi, who were lounging on the sofa, paused their chatter and listened in.

Vanshu (glaring at Akshu):

“Oye… hum dono ke saath kya haan? Tumhari wajah se hi fase hain hum yaha! Har waqt jo tumhara khurafati mode activate rehta hai na… usne hume bhi pagal bana diya. Warna hum toh seedhe-saadhe the.”

Khushi (nodding, rubbing her sore arms):

“Aur nhi toh kya. Khud toh maar-peet kari… aur saath mein meri bhi mati maari gayi thi jo iske peeche peeche chal padi.”

Akshu (defensive):

“Ha toh maine zabardasti bulaya tha kya? Khud aayi thi tum.”

Vanshu (throwing up her hands, exasperated):

“Bas bas chup raho! Tum dono ki wajah se ho raha hai yeh sab. Acchi khaasi life chal rahi thi UP mein… par nahi! ‘Chalo Mumbai… saath rahenge… saath padhenge.’ Ab ho gaya na saath-saath satya nash? Mujhe bhi is jail mein fasa liya! Aur upar se mera phone… 😭 mera pyara phone chala gaya!”

On the sofa, Mahir pressed his lips together, but a chuckle escaped him. Bela, still sitting upright with her “strict” expression, tried to hide how her eyes softened at this raw honesty. Team Aashvi exchanged grins, enjoying the secret commentary.

Vanshu (to the other two, glaring):

“Tum dono ka phone use karungi ab main… dekhna! Tum dono ki wajah se mera phone gaya hai.”

Akshu (rolling her eyes):

“Oh behen… tumhara toh sirf phone gaya. Meri toh puri izzat chali gayi yaha! Class ke bahar khade rehna padega… who bhi aisi haalat mein. Socho! Aise hi dushman kam nahi hain mere… phone se zyada pyaari izzat hoti hai. Khade rehkar toh mere pair hi toot jaayenge wo bhi na jane kab tak.”

Khushi (groaning dramatically, shaking her hands):

“Aur mere haath! Wo Radhika ma’am na… likhwa likhwa ke tod degi mere haath dekhna! Upar se ma’am bhi wahi rahengi… kuch bol bhi nahi paungi main. Maths se panga liya hai kabhi tumne? Jo duniya x se move on karti hai na… main abhi tak x ko hi dhoondhti hoon… aur uski sautan yz ko bhi!”

At this, Bela almost broke character. Her lips twitched, and she quickly looked away from Mahir, trying to hide her smile.

Mahir, however, couldn’t hold it anymore — he burst into hearty laughter, his voice filling the living room.

Vanshu (dramatic, folding arms):

“Wo sab main nahi jaanti. Mujhe toh mere pehle pyaar se hi alag kar diya h ma’am ne.. Ab main tum dono ke phone mein apni series khatam karungi. Aadhe mein nahi rakh sakti main usko… Steve bura maan jaayega!”

Akshu (glaring at her):

“Haan toh mera wala kya? Mera Will bhi bura maan jaayega! Mujhe bhi khatam karni hai series. Tum Khushi ke phone mein dekh lena.”

Khushi (snatching her phone closer, horrified):

“No way! Mujhe apne serial ke next episodes dekhne hain. Aur tum log yeh sab yaha shuru kar rahe ho? Haath-pair toote pade hain… aur inko sirf ‘crush-crush’ khelna hai. Maata se pray karo ki mujhe shakti mile Hitler ko jhelne ki!”

On the sofa, Mahir chuckled loudly, leaning back like he was watching a live sitcom.

Mahir (teasing):

“Tum hi leke aayi thi na in actors ko ghar pe? Accha hai… Sunday ke entertainment ka jugaad ho gaya mera!”

Bela shot him a side-eye to behave, but her own lips twitched at the madness.

Akshu (mock prayer, hands folded):

“Tum kya mata se pray kar rahi ho.. Kal toh shakshat Mata Kaal Bhairavi ke darshan ho chuke the… ab aur kya bacha hai? Bas maths ka surprise test hi de do… rudra roop ke aur darshan ho jaayenge.”

Khushi (snorting):

“Excuse me! Mujhe toh mata Gauri ka roop jyada better laga. Kaali roop tum pe suit karta hai… tumhare kaam jo waise hain.”

Akshu (offended, hand on chest):

“Aisa kuch nahi hai! Main bholi-bhali hoon. Suna nahi? Leader qualities hain mujh mein. Meri suna karo… fayde mein rahoge.”

Vanshu (bursting into laughter):

“Badi aayi leader quality wali! Leader se zyada dictator lagti ho tum.”

Khushi (adding fuel):

“Haan! Leader quality ke naam pe sirf lecture quality hai tum mein.”

Vanshu (smirking, final blow):

“Masoom toh main hoon. Tum dono virus ho… aur main toh bechari innocent victim.”

The three burst into bickering again — pointing, groaning, complaining.

Bela shook her head slowly, hiding a smile.

Bela (in her head, amused):

“Pagal hain teeno… itni maar ke baad bhi lad rahe hain.”

Khushi (hands flailing dramatically):

“Dekho, jo bhi ho… tum dono ke punishments thik hi hain. Kam se kam tumhe Hitler aur Sherni dono ko ek saath face nahi karna padega. Mere saamne toh dono rahenge—ek Hitler, scale ke saath… aur ek Sherni. Nahi nahi… Sherni kya… seedha Durga Maa! Nau haath ke saath, Mahishasur ki tarah mera vadh karne ke ready—trishool leke!”

Bela’s lips almost curved—internally she was bursting with laughter.

Bela (in her thoughts, amused):

“Accha beta… main Durga Maa trishool ke saath? Ruko… kal tumhe dikhati hoon main.”

Akshu (clutching her head, tragic tone):

“Kam se kam tumhare paas izzat toh bachi hai! Meri toh poori bezzati ho jaayegi. Class ke bahar khadi hoon, leadership gayi tel lene… meri image ka kya hoga?”

Vanshu (near tears, hugging herself):

“Mera phone… 😭😭 mera pyaar!”

Khushi (snapping, rolling eyes):

“Tere phone ki aisi-ki-taisi! Pehle mujhe bachao koi!”

Vanshu (gasps, offended):

“Ayeee! Mere phone ko kuch nahi bolne ka!”

Akshu (mocking, with sass):

“Haan haan… bada pyaar hai tujhe apne phone se. Aadhe se zyada time toh bechara lavaris pada rehta hai. Isko toh khud bhi hosh nahi rehta phone kahan hai. Aur ab drama kar rahi hai!”

Vanshu (snapping back, pointing at Akshu):

“Chup reh tu! Tumhare izzat ki chinta zyada hai… jese abhi tak koi izzat bachi ho!”

Khushi (throwing hands up):

“Arre, bas karo dono! Hitler aur Sherni ke saamne jaane se pehle tum dono hi mera khoon pi jaoge!”

On the sofa, Mahir was holding his stomach, laughing out loud. The three juniors were also giggling non-stop.

Mahir: “Hahhaha.. Mata Gauri.. Kaal bhairavi.. Maa Durga.. Bela.. Suna tumne.😂”

Bela: “Aapko kuch zyada hasi nhi aa rahi h? “

But Mahir was still enjoying the show while Bela, though stone-faced, was fighting hard not to smile—her eyes already giving her away.

Akshu (throwing her hands up):

“Dekho, mai keh rahi hoon Zomato se kuch order karte hain… khate hain aur nikalte hain. I need peace! Best idea—badminton practice hai keh ke seedha bhaag jaati hoon. Tum dono apna dekh lo.”

Khushi (snapping back):

“Oh madam, Ma’am ke paas coach sir ka number hai. Samjhi? Ek jhoot bol ke bacha logi khud ko?”

Akshu (groaning, regretting):

“Kis bure waqt mein maine tum dono ka admission karwaya tha is school mein!”

Khushi (deadpan):

“Usi waqt apna bhi karwaya tha… yaad hai”

Akshu (dramatic sigh):

“Mujhe toh abhi bhi samajh nahi aata… Mumbai jaisa sheher tha, aur koi teacher nahi mili kya? Jo ek police officer ko hi teacher ban ke aana pada?”

Bela raises her eyebrow sharply at that—instant glare mode. Mahir, on the sofa, chuckled under his breath at Akshu’s audacity.

Khushi (philosophical tone, clutching her forehead):

“Arre… jab grah-nakshatra ulte chal rahe ho na toh kuch bhi ho sakta hai. Dekh lo—jis Radhika Ma’am ko pehli baar dekh ke hum khush the… aaj unko face karne ke liye ro rahe hu mai. Sach kahu toh… Bela Ma’am jaisi koi nahi ho sakti. Agar wo hoti na… toh aaj main bhi debate ka part hoti.”

Vanshu (nodding, softly):

“Wahi na… samajhti hi nahi h yeh baat.”

Akshu (leaning back, muttering, but a hint of respect in her tone):

“Haan… yeh toh hai. Meri life jaisi chal rahi thi… honestly kuch banti hi nahi mai. At least is ‘discipline cage’ mein, meri izzat bachi hai. Aur izzat pyaari hai mujhe, maam ke guidence se atleast mai kuch tho accha kar paungi apni life mai...

Vanshu: “Wahi tho doctor ban jaungi agar ma’am ke under rahi tho nhi toh gaya mera career. “

Khushi (with a small smile, voice more emotional now):

“Haan… aur agar hum aaj apni galti samajh paaye hain, sahi raaste pe chalna seekh rahe hain… toh wo sirf unki wajah se hai. Hamare sapne agar sach ho bhi paaye na… toh wo sirf unke aur Sir ke support ki wajah se hoga.”

A silence follows—more thoughtful than awkward. Upstairs, Bela pretends to focus on her notebook, but her eyes soften. Mahir’s grin lingers, knowing Bela heard every word.

[Living Room – Bela’s POV as she listens]

Bela kept her pen steady over the notebook, eyes fixed on the red marks she was making… but her ears had already betrayed her discipline. Every word from upstairs was pouring down.

At Akshu’s “police officer teacher” remark, her eyebrow shot up automatically. The old instinct—to glare, to remind them who they were dealing with—rose like muscle memory. She didn’t even need to speak; just one look and silence would fall. Mahir’s chuckle from the sofa didn’t help.

But then… Khushi’s voice shifted. From the usual chirpiness to something softer, rawer.

 “Bela Ma’am jaisa koi nahi ho sakta. Agar wo hoti na… toh aaj main bhi debate ka part hoti.”

For a second, Bela’s pen stopped mid-page. The words tugged at something deep inside. She had wanted Khushi to realise her mistake, yes—but this? This quiet confession, this acceptance… it was more than an apology. It was proof that her effort had reached their hearts.

When Vanshu and Akshu echoed in agreement, Bela’s lips twitched. She hid it instantly, lowering her gaze as if double-checking a line in the notebook. She couldn’t let them see that softness. Not now. Not ever.

Then Khushi’s last words—

 “Hamare sapne agar sach ho bhi paaye na… toh wo sirf unke aur Sir ke support ki wajah se hoga.”

Bela’s throat tightened. For a fleeting moment, the “Sherni” melted. The same strict teacher who scolded, punished, and frightened them… was also the woman who wanted nothing more than to see these stubborn kids shine.

But discipline was her armour. So, she put the mask back on—stone face, pen moving briskly as though she hadn’t heard a thing.

Still, inside, she thought:

“Baccho… tum samajh jao yeh hi bohot hai. Mera kaam bas itna hi tha.”

Mahir glanced at her knowingly, his grin saying it all: You’re proud of them, aren’t you?

Bela didn’t look up, but her silence was an answer enough.

---

Akshu (dramatically):

“Yaar mujhe toh bas ek hi rasta dikh raha hai… sanyas ka. Mai sanyas le rahi hu.”

Vanshu (grinning):

“Konse baba ke paas?”

Akshu (hands folded in mock-seriousness):

“Netflix Baba. Bohot pohonche hue baba hai.”

Vanshu (sitting up, nodding):

“Haan, maine bhi bohot suna hai unke baare mein. Chal mujhe bhi le chal.”

Khushi (rolling her eyes):

“Arre sanyas leke khane ko kuch nahi milega accha soch lo.”

Akshu (groaning, holding her arms):

“Khane ka mann hi nahi hai! Haath uth nahi rahe. Khana khane ke liye bhi 10 baar haath upar-niche karna padega… ye prasad rakha hai, mai ja rahi hu. Waise bhi ek hafte ke notes pending hai… maths ke! Mujhe sanyas chahiye.”

Vanshu (sighing dramatically):

“Same yaar. Mere bhi notes pending hai. Chal mai bhi sanyas leti hu.”

Akshu (sitting up suddenly):

“Par soch rahi hu… homework agar na bhi kiya toh kya hoga? Class ke bahar toh already nikal hi diya gaya hai.”

Khushi (serious tone, arms crossed):

“Beta kal se Bela Ma’am wapas aa rahi hai. Maximum kya hoga? Sabke saamne maar khaogi.”

Vanshu (bursting out laughing):

“Phir toh izzat naam ki cheez ko bhool hi jao!”

Akshu (wincing, pressing her shoulders):

“Nahi nahi, mai notes kar lungi. Waise bhi do din baad match hai… aur sach bolun toh body pain kaafi ho raha hai. Main soch rahi hu na khelu.”

Vanshu – same dard bohot hai

Khushi (sitting up straight, voice sharp):

“Yaar aise mat kaho. Mera toh naam already cancel ho gaya hai… agar tum dono bhi withdraw kar doge toh kaise chalega? Ma’am ko proud feel karwane ka ek hi chance hai. Waise bhi… humne unhe let down kiya hai. Shayad regret kar rahi hongi apne decision pe.”

Vanshu (half-whining):

“Yaar… lekin haarne se toh accha hai khele hi na. Jab pata hai best nahi denge toh…”

Khushi (cutting in, firm):

“Kisne bol diya tum log haar jaoge? Itni mehnat kar rahe ho… itna talent hai tum dono mein… aur sirf tum dono ka selection hua hai school mein! Aur ab tum log aise bol rahe ho?”

Akshu (muttering):

“Par tumhara bhi toh hua tha selection.”

Khushi (throwing her hands up):

“Arre haan, par ab toh lagta hai Rahu, Ketu, Shani, Mangal sab ek hi meeting kar rahe hain mere against. Nasib kharab ho toh kya kar sakti hu? Tum dono toh kam se kam part loge. Mujhe kuch nahi sunna.”

Vanshu (grinning, putting an arm around Akshu):

“Haan, par apne group ka ek hi rule hai na — one for all, all for one. Agar proud feel karwayenge toh teeno sath karwayenge… warna rehne do. Nahi lenge hum bhi part. Waise bhi meri komal twacha already ro rahi hai.”

Akshu (clutching her leg dramatically):

“Mai tho chali apne ghar, Thank you, bas mera ho gaya!”

Khushi (stern, almost pleading):

“Tum log aise nahi kar sakte! Ma’am aur Sir ko kitna accha lagega jab tum jeetoge. School ko represent karna bohot badi baat hai.”

Vanshu & Akshu (together, with a teasing smile):

“Jis life ke chapter mein tum nahi… waha hum bhi nahi.”

Both chuckle, then finally get serious.

Akshu (sighing):

“Chalo Vanshu, notes complete karte hain. Waise bhi… agar ye red marks kal tak nahi gaye na, toh mai nhi aane wali school.”

Vanshu (nodding):

“Same.”

The three share a quiet laugh after too much back-and-forth, and finally drag themselves toward the dining table.

[Living Room – Morning]

The trio finally stepped out, faces carefully blank, completely unaware (or at least pretending so) that every word of their bedroom banter had already reached the ears of Bela, Mahir, and Team Aashvi lounging in the living room.

Khushi (awkward smile, stiff voice):

“Good morning, Ma’am… good morning, Sir.”

Akshu & Vanshu (quickly echoing, equally awkward):

“Good morning.”

Bela gave them only a curt nod, eyes unreadable, while Mahir’s greeting was warm and enthusiastic.

Before the girls could slip past, Team Aashvi’s curious eyes zoomed in.

Aashvi (innocently):

“Didi log… aap log ne same-same kapde kyu pehne hain?”

Kiku (squinting, puzzled):

“Haan… aur aaj toh sab full kapde mein ho! Roz toh half pant aur T-shirt mein ghoomte ho. Kya special hai?”

Vanu (narrowing eyes, suspicious):

“Aur garmi nahi lag rahi aap log ko? Aaj toh itni dhoop hai!”

Bela and Mahir exchanged a quick glance — her lips curving into a smirk, his eyes dancing as he fought to hide a laugh behind the newspaper.

Khushi (snapping, a bit irritated):

“Bas… thand lag rahi thi bohot, isliye pehne hain!”

Aashi (genuinely confused):

“Arre par aaj toh garmi hai… thandi kahan se aa gayi?”

Vanshu (forcing a smile, scrambling):

“Arre wo… twinning karne ka mann tha. Isliye same-same pehen liya. Thik hai?”

Kiku (frowning, logical as ever):

“Par twinning toh do log karte hain na, Mumma?”

Bela nodded slightly, struggling not to laugh, while Mahir hid his chuckle deeper into the folds of his newspaper.

Akshu (irritated now, throwing her hands up):

“Arre toh hum threeing kar rahe hain, bas! Khush?”

Vanu (excitedly, missing the sarcasm):

“Arey waah! Toh hume bhi bolna tha na didi. Hum bhi threeing karte… maza aata!”

Kiku (bouncing in agreement):

“Haan, hum bhi aapke saath threening karte!”

Vanshu’s irritation melted into a wicked grin. She leaned closer, eyes sparkling with mischief.

Vanshu:

“Sach mein karni hai tum teeno ko threening?”

Team Aashvi (in unison, nodding eagerly):

“Haan!”

The sisters exchanged a quick, devilish smirk — the kind that always meant trouble.

Khushi (grinning slyly):

“Thik hai… par uske liye tumhe humari baat sunni padegi. Bolo… sunoge?”

Bela’s eyes instantly narrowed, catching on to their mischief before it could unfold, while Mahir had to practically bury his face behind the newspaper, shoulders shaking with suppressed laughter.

Akshu (leaning forward, wicked smile):

“Accha… toh pehle yeh batao, tum teeno ke sabse bekaar subjects kaunse hain?”

Team Aashvi glanced at each other, thinking hard. Bela, arms crossed, arched a brow — her mind muttering, “Sab samajh rahi hoon main tum teeno ke nautanki.”

Aashi (making a face):

“Hindi! Bohot boring lagta hai.”

Vanu (nodding quickly):

“Same!”

Kiku (grimacing):

“Maths.”

Vanshu’s eyes gleamed with mischief.

Vanshu (dramatic):

“Bas! Toh phir agle test mein inhi subjects mein kam marks leke aana…”

Khushi (jumping in, eyes wide, mock-spiritual):

“…Aur phir karna saath mein threeing! Us waqt saakshat Devi Maa darshan dene aayengi!”

Team Aashvi’s eyes widened like saucers.

Kiku (gasping):

“Sacchi? Maa khud ayengi darshan dene?”

Akshu (dead serious, suppressing a grin):

“Bilkul. Ekdum asli darshan.”

Vanu (dreamily):

“Wowww… main toh unse dher saari chocolates maangungi!”

Aashi (still doubtful):

“Par hum kaise maan le?”

Khushi (smirking):

“Simple. Try karke dekh lo. Kam marks lao… phir maze se pehnna full kapde.”

Vanshu (adding fuel, poker face):

“Pehle istamaal kare… Phir vishwas kare.”

Team Aashvi exchanged deeply confused looks — half tempted, half horrified.

Bela’s lips twitched as she tried desperately to suppress her laughter, eyes narrowing at the trio’s wickedness.

Meanwhile Mahir had completely lost control — newspaper slipping, his loud laughter echoing through the room.

Team Aashvi still looked at each other, whispering:

Aashi (serious whisper): “Sach mein? Marks kam laaye toh Devi Maa Humse milne ayengi…”

Vanu (excited): “…Aur chocolates!”

Kiku (half scared): “Par… papa daantenge na?”

Before the trio could spin more nonsense, Bela’s voice cut the air — calm but sharp.

Bela (sternly):

“Bas. Bahut ho gaya drama.”

The three sisters froze, their smirks vanishing in a second. Mahir, still chuckling, quickly hid behind his newspaper again.

Bela (glaring at the trio, but lips twitching):

“Tum teeno samajhti ho main andhi hoon? Mujhe sab samajh aa raha tha — threeing, Devi Maa, full kapde ka naatak … Haa?”

Khushi, Akshu, and Vanshu glanced at each other guiltily, trying not to laugh at their own joke.

Bela (leaning in slightly, voice low but firm):

“Aur haan… agar tum teeno ne Team Aashvi ko marks kam lane ke liye uksaya na… toh main khud ban jaungi Durga Maa trishool ke saath. Samjhi?”

Her glare was so real that all six kids (trio + Team Aashvi) gulped in sync.

Mahir (laughing aloud again):

“Arre Bela… bachche hi toh hai. Sunday ka live comedy show free mein mil raha tha… mat roko yaar.”

Bela shot him a side-eye that made him straighten instantly, muttering “Sorry sorry” and hiding behind the paper again.

The trio sat down quietly, still biting their lips to stop giggles, while Team Aashvi blinked at each other — unsure if Devi Maa’s darshan were real… or if Bela ma’am already was that Durga Maa with nine arms.

Bela’s eyes narrowed like laser beams as she folded her arms.

Bela (sternly):

“Aur tum teeno… ho gayi baketi? Ab shaanti se baith jao breakfast ke liye.”

The trio stiffened.

Khushi (hesitant, almost pleading):

“Ma’am… bhookh nahi hai aaj ekdum please.. Skip kar lete hai?”

Vanshu (rubbing her eyes dramatically):

“Haan ma’am… bas neend aa rahi hai. Please sone ki permission de dijiye.”

Akshu (quickly adding on):

“Bilkul… sirf rest chahiye aaj kuch aur nahi.”

Bela’s glare sharpened — enough to slice their excuses mid-air. Their voices died instantly.

Bela (clipped tone):

“Ho gaya? Tum teeno ka drama? Ab chup-chaap breakfast karo. Aur sun lo — aaj ka schedule main decide karungi. Aadhe ghante baad mujhe tum teeno study room mein chahiye. Books ke saath. Last week school mein jitna padhaya gaya, sabka update doge. Aur jo assignments, classwork, homework bacha hai… sab khatam karoge. Samjhe?”

The three nodded weakly, voices barely above a whisper.

Trio (muttering in sync):

“Yes, ma’am…”

But now came the real challenge — sitting down. With sore legs, aching arms, and Mahir plus Team Aashvi watching curiously, their izzat was at stake.

Forcing plastic smiles, the trio inched toward the dining chairs.

Akshu (gritting teeth, whispering):

“Yaar… lagta hai electric shock chair pe lagwa rakha hai…”

Vanshu (under her breath):

“Chup… izzat bachi rehne do…”

Khushi (hissing softly as she sits, pain flashing in her eyes):

“Ma’am ka order…pathar ki lakeer samajh ke karna padega…”

They finally sat, their faces stretched into awkward smiles, but inside their hearts were screaming in pain. Mahir’s eyes softened with worry for once as he could sense their pain, hiding behind his hand, while Team Aashvi blinked in confusion — wondering why their three didi’s looked like they were sitting on thorns instead of cushions.

Bela, meanwhile, sipped her tea calmly — a small victorious smirk tugging at her lips.

Akshu (muttering under her breath, irritated):

“Yaar kya musibat hai… itni garmi mein full kapde pehen ke ghoomna pad raha hai. School mein bhi formals… uff, chidh ho rahi hai mujhe.”

Vanshu (groaning):

“Seriously yaar… ek kadam chalne mein bhi dard ho raha hai. School kaise jayenge? Main toh nahi jaa rahi… ho gaya mera. Aise haal mein koi pooch lega toh kya bolenge?”

Khushi (sighing, resigned):

“Accha lage ya na lage, karna hi padega… humare hi actions ke consequences hain yeh.”

Bela, calmly buttering her toast, leaned forward just slightly. Her voice was low, steady — a whisper meant only for the guilty trio:

Bela (deadpan):

“Shukar manao… gaal pe nahi maara. Wahan kaise chhupate, socho zara.”

The effect was instant.

The trio froze like statues. Their eyes widened, gulps audible. Then, in perfect sync, all three broke into loud fake coughs as though trying to cover the awkward silence.

And then — as if pulled by the same invisible string — all three clutched their own cheeks protectively, imagining the sting Bela had just hinted at.

Mahir hid his chuckle behind his chai, shoulders shaking.

Team Aashvi, confused by the bizarre scene, blinked at them innocently.

Aashi (frowning):

“Didi log… aap sab ek saath gaal kyun pakad rahe ho?”

Vanu (tilting her head):

“Haan… lagta hai kisi ne ekdum same jagah pe maara hai…?”

The trio instantly coughed harder, faces red — now from embarrassment more than fear.

Bela sipped her tea, expression calm and unreadable… though the faintest smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.

No one caught it… except Mahir.

He glanced sideways at her, amused, his eyes narrowing just slightly in quiet recognition of the game she was playing with the three.

The trio, of course, too busy clutching their cheeks and pretending to cough, missed the entire exchange.

While they were having breakfast…

Mahir (lightly but with warmth) – “Akshu, Vanshu… tum dono ka competition sirf teen din baad h na? Agar kisi cheez ki zarurat ho toh bina jhijhak mujhe bolna, thik hai? Akshu, tumhe shoes, naya racquet… kuch bhi chahiye ho, bas kehna. Aur Vanshu, tum bhi.”

The trio froze for a moment, exchanging quick glances.

Akshu and Vanshu’s thoughts tangled at once – “Hume toh part hi lena ka mann nahi… ab kya kare?”

Khushi kept quiet, her eyes fixed on her plate.

Akshu (managing a small smile) – “Thank you so much, sir… aapne pucha, bas wahi bahut hai. Kuch hua toh hum zaroor bata denge.”

Vanshu nodded in agreement, though her hesitation was obvious.

Bela, however, said nothing. She only watched them intently, her sharp eyes giving nothing away. She had already heard their whispers near the mandir — the pact that if Khushi couldn’t participate, neither of them would. And now, as she studied their downcast faces, she knew she’d have to step in. There had to be a way out of this stubborn loyalty.

Khushi’s POV

“Yeh sahi nahi hoga… meri wajah se dono apna itna bada chance miss kar dein? Itni bada opportunity… aise hi chhod dena, sirf mere liye? Galat hoga yeh. Mujhe ma’am se baat karni hogi. Sirf wahi samjha sakti hain in dono ko…”

The rest of breakfast passed in silence, the air heavy with unspoken thoughts. Plates were cleared quietly, and soon, the three were ready to move toward the study room, their minds already preoccupied with the storm brewing ahead.

[STUDY ROOM – OUTSIDE]

The trio stood outside the dreaded study room — the same place where, just last night, they had been thrashed mercilessly. The mere thought of stepping inside made their throats go dry. Every nerve screamed run, but it was Bela’s order. And Bela’s order was non-negotiable.

So, with books clutched tightly in one hand, and the other hand half-shielding their cheeks for extra protection, they edged closer to the door.

Akshu (whispering, nervous but trying to be funny) – “Main bol rahI hoon helmet le aate h… gaal safe rahenge. Haath-pair toh already toote hue h… ab gaal pe pada na toh muh dikhane layak nahi bachenge.”

Vanshu (gulping) – “Par helmet layenge kaha se? Tum dono ke paas h kya?”

Akshu (snapping fingers) – “Arre 10 minute lagega… Blinkit kar dete h na!”

Khushi’s eyes flared; she turned and glared at Akshu.

Khushi – “Gazab… ab helmet blinkit se mangwa ke paisa waste karegi tu? Aur ma’am ek glare se wahi helmet utarwa dengi… tab samajh ayega. Thoda toh dimaag laga!”

Akshu (muttering, still stubborn) – “Safety first na…”

Before Vanshu could chuckle, a sharp voice cut through from inside.

Bela – “Bahar khade rehke baketi karna bandh karo. Come in.”

The trio froze, gulps echoing together. Then, as if walking into their own execution, they pushed the door open and stepped inside, books trembling in their hands.

---

INSIDE –

The study room felt colder than usual — not because of the AC, but because of Bela’s presence. She sat on the chair with a straight back, arms crossed, gaze sharp as ever. The trio shuffled in, trying to smile but failing miserably.

Bela (curtly) – “Baith jao.”

That one order was enough to make their legs feel like lead. Sitting with sore arms and legs was nothing short of torture, but they had no option. They lowered themselves slowly, wincing every second, faces stretched in forced smiles as if nothing was wrong.

Akshu (muttering under her breath while sitting) – “Abhi toh lag raha h operation theatre mai patient hu… aur doctor madam hamara check-up lene baithi h.”

Vanshu (hissing back) – “Shut up warna injection bhi mil jayega free mai…”

Khushi gave them both a death glare, silently praying Bela hadn’t heard. But Bela’s eyes flickered to them for a split second, making all three sit up straighter than rulers.

Bela (clapping her hands once) – “Chalo, shuru karte h. Akshika, tumse start karte h. Last week school mai kya padha? Line by line batao.”

Akshu’s jaw almost dropped. Her eyes darted helplessly towards Khushi and Vanshu.

Akshu (thinking) – “Yeh toh ekdum viva exam jaisa lag raha h… sirf fail hone ki date alag h.”

Vanshu’s lips twitched to laugh but she bit them down, pretending to flip her book.

Bela’s gaze shifted.

Bela – “Vanshika, tum assignments leke aayi ho na? Mujhe abhi chahiye.”

Vanshu’s smile died on the spot. She scrambled through her books, mumbling, “haan… haan…” as if she had everything perfectly ready, even though her mind screamed “bachao!”

Meanwhile, Khushi sat stiffly, clutching her books to her chest, knowing her turn was next.

Khushi (thinking, panicked) – “Bas ma’am ab mujhe na puchna… main toh abhi bhi kal raat ke punishment se mentally recover ho rahi hu…”

Bela, however, turned her eyes on her anyway.

Bela – “Aur Khushi… tum toh debate miss kar chuki ho. Mujhe double preparation chahiye tumhari. Ek bhi excuse nahi chalega. Science Maths dono nikalo mai sab check karungi.”

The trio’s hearts sank In sync, all silently screaming inside — “Ab toh gaye kaam se.”

Bela flipped through Akshika’s notebook, her brows arching as she spotted blank spaces where answers should’ve been.

Bela (sternly): “Akshika… yeh English essays? Aur yeh answers? Adhe adhure kyu hain?”

Akshu swallowed hard, clutching her cheeks as if they were her shield.

Bela slowly looked up — only to see her hands still firmly pressed against her face. Her glare sharpened.

Bela (curt, voice cutting like ice): “Haath hatao gaal pe se. Abhi. Warna wahi lagaungi kheench ke, samjhi?”

Akshu’s eyes widened; she instantly dropped her hands, sitting straight like a soldier caught red-handed.

Akshu (mumbling nervously): “Ji… ma’am…”

Bela (firmly, not relenting): “Tumhari practice thi, is liye last chance de rahi hoon. Abhi isi jagah baith ke sab khatam karna hoga. Ek bhi pending nahi chahiye mujhe.”

Akshu nodded furiously, quickly bending over her notebook, pen scratching in panic.

Next, Bela turned to Vanshika. She scanned her work, her eyes narrowing again. The pages were filled, yes — but messy, hurried, riddled with silly mistakes.

Bela (flat, with disappointment): “Vanshika… complete toh hai, lekin yeh kya hai? Itni jaldi mai kaun likhta hai? Har dusre line mai mistake hai.”

Vanshu froze. Her first instinct was to cover her cheeks like Akshu had done, but the memory of Bela’s last warning echoed too loud in her head. She stiffened, hands glued to her lap.

Vanshu (voice low, guilty): “S-sorry ma’am… abhi correct karti hoon.”

Without daring to meet Bela’s eyes, she quickly grabbed her pencil and began making corrections at lightning speed.

Bela didn’t even need to say more — her silent presence was punishment enough.

Bela flipped open Khushi’s Maths notebook, scanning line after line. To her surprise, every sum, every answer was correct. Not a single blank.

Bela (thinking, astonished): “Unbelievable… Maths complete? Aur sab sahi? Yeh toh sach mein miracle hai…”

She looked up at Khushi, who sat stiff and quiet, almost as if bracing for a storm.

Bela (aloud, measured tone): “Maths sab complete hai… good. But… kaise? Tumhe toh Maths pasand bhi nahi hai. Phir?”

Khushi fidgeted, her voice barely steady.

Khushi (hesitant, words trailing): “W-wo… Radhika ma’am…”

She didn’t need to finish — Bela’s eyes softened for a second, she understood.

Bela (nodding slightly): “Hmm.”

But as soon as she flipped to other subjects — Science, English, Social Studies — her expression hardened again. Half-done answers, incomplete notes, missing assignments.

Her sharp glare made Khushi’s throat dry.

Khushi (hurriedly, fumbling for excuses): “Wo… Maths mai focus karne ki wajah se… baaki thoda incomplete reh gaya… so… sorry ma’am.”

Bela leaned back, her voice dangerously calm.

Bela: “Sorry se kaam nahi chalega, Khushi. Yeh sab complete karo. Aur batao — tum toh competition mai part nahi le rahi thi na? Practice toh thi hi nahi… phir yeh sab subjects adhe kaise?”

The word “practice” hit Khushi like a wound reopening. Her chest tightened; she dropped her gaze, lips pressing together to stop the sting in her throat.

Bela noticed the flicker instantly — that silent ache in Khushi’s eyes. She knew it wasn’t just incomplete work. It was the pain of being left out of the debate… and worse, dragging her friends down with her.

Bela’s POV

She kept the notebook down slowly, her gaze lingering on Khushi longer than necessary. The girl’s shoulders were stiff, her eyes fixed on the table as if one wrong blink would spill the tears she was holding back.

Bela’s jaw clenched. “Yeh teeno jo kar rahe h wo galat h.. Ek ki wajah se teen apne career ka nuksaan karenge? Kabhi nahi.”

Her eyes shifted to Akshu and Vanshu. Both were pretending to scribble furiously, but Bela could see it — the hesitation in their strokes, the lack of spark. Their energy, the usual fire, dulled. And all because of one silent guilt weighing down on them.

“Mujhe pata hai, yeh dono sirf dikhawa kar rahe hain ki competition ke liye ready hain. Mann se inhone decision already le liya hai — participate nahi karne ka. Sirf iss liye kyunki Khushi ko nahi mila chance. Yeh sacrifice nahi hai… yeh khud ke sapnon ko dabaana hai. Aur main apne students ko kabhi aise tootne nahi doongi.”

Bela’s gaze softened for a brief second as she watched Khushi fumble with her Science notebook. “Aur Khushi… tumhe lagta hai main samajh nahi pa rahi? Tumhare mann mai jo chal raha h. Tumhe laga punishment sirf physical thi? Nahi…shayad sabse badi punishment toh tumhe us debate se door karna tha. Aur ab wohi tumhe tod raha hai.”

She exhaled deeply, straightening her back, her voice once again firm as steel.

“Nahi… yeh ladkiyan aise apni umeed khatam nahi karengi. Main khud ensure karungi ki teeno apne competition ke liye khade ho. Chahe unhe samjhakar, ya thoda aur discipline se .”

Her eyes flicked to Mahir’s photo frame kept on the study shelf. The tiniest smirk tugged her lips. “Aur agar zarurat padi… toh sirf main nahi, Mahir ji bhi meri madad karenge. Yeh bachche chaahe na chahe, unhe samajhna hi padega ki har sapna sirf tab poora hota hai jab tum khud uske liye ladte ho.”

Bela’s eyes snapped back to the trio — Akshu scribbling messily, Vanshu playing with her pen cap nervously, and Khushi staring blankly at her half-written notes.

She tapped the table once, decisively. “Ab mai dekhti hu kaise teeno part nhi lete ho.”

STUDY ROOM – CONTINUED

The scratching of pens and the occasional sigh filled the air. Time dragged painfully. For the trio, the last hour felt like an eternity. Their backs ached, their legs screamed in protest, and every movement reminded them of last night’s thrashing and punishment.

Akshu stifled a yawn, her head drooping dangerously close to the desk before she jerked it upright again. Vanshu kept shifting in her chair, wincing each time her sore muscles resisted. Khushi pressed her palms hard against her thighs, biting her lip to stop the trembling.

Bela noticed it all. Every yawn, every wince, every twitch of discomfort. Yet her face remained unmoved — cold, strict, unreadable.

Bela (clapping her hands sharply):

“Dhyaan lagao! Main tum teenon ke chehre pe thakaan nahi… focus dekhna chahti hoon.”

The trio straightened instantly, forcing themselves to sit still, though their bodies protested with every second. They pushed through the pain, scribbling faster, desperate to finish.

Twenty agonizing minutes later, Akshu finally dropped her pen with a shaky sigh.

Akshu (low, hesitant):

“Ma’am… ho gaya hai.”

Khushi and Vanshu immediately nodded in sync, their voices small.

Khushi & Vanshu (together):

“Haan, ma’am…”

Bela silently took their notebooks, flipping through each page. Her sharp eyes scanned the work line by line. Everything was complete. She closed the last notebook with a soft thud, then looked up.

Her gaze lingered on them for a long moment — longer than usual. She could clearly see it now: the stiffness in their posture, the way their faces tightened with every shift, the hidden groans they tried to swallow.

Yet her voice stayed firm, her mask intact.

Bela (curt, but softer than before):

“Thik hai. Sab complete hai. Ab… jao. Rest karo.”

The trio froze, stunned. They blinked at her as if they hadn’t heard right.

Akshu (wide-eyed, whispering to herself):

“Rest? Yeh… ma’am ne bola?”

Vanshu (in disbelief, muttering):

“Lagta hai heat stroke lag gaya hai ma’am ko…”

Khushi elbowed both of them quickly, though her own lips curved in a faint smile she couldn’t suppress.

Khushi (muttering and then softly):

“Kya pata par accha h kat lete h… Thank you, ma’am…”

The other two echoed her hesitantly, murmuring their thanks.

Akshu & Vanshu (murmuring):

“Thank you, ma’am…”

Bela only gave a short nod, her expression unreadable. But the flicker in her eyes betrayed what her words didn’t — care.

The trio rose slowly, every step heavy, their bodies aching. With groans and limp movements, they made their way toward the door.

Akshu (grumbling as she walked):

“Arre yaar… ab toh seedhiyan chadhne ka naam hi mat lo…”

Vanshu (groaning back):

“Meri toh kamar toot gayi… mujhe stretcher chahiye.”

Khushi (half laughing, half wincing):

“Bas… thoda aur bardaasht karo… room tak pahunch jaayein bas.”

Behind them, Bela watched silently, arms crossed. Her lips pressed into a thin line, but her eyes softened for just a second.

Moments Later

As the trio limped out with muffled groans, the room finally grew quiet. Bela exhaled slowly, about to gather her thoughts when the door opened.

Mahir stepped in, his presence as calm and soothing as ever, carrying two cups of steaming coffee. The faint aroma filled the room. One look at his serene smile and Bela felt her shoulders relax, the tension she had been holding since morning slowly melting away.

He handed her a cup before settling on the couch beside her.

Mahir (teasing, sipping his coffee with a knowing smile):

“Toh meri Kaal Bhairavi ka kya haal hai.. Ho gaya padhana?”

Normally, Bela would’ve shot him a glare for that nickname. But with Mahir, the wall she wore in front of everyone else crumbled. A wide, genuine smile spread across her face — the very smile she had been suppressing all day.

Bela (laughing softly, shaking her head):

“Yeh bacche bhi na… bilkul pagal hain. Kahaan-kahaan se aisi baatein dhoondh lete hain. Aur mujhe toh seriously pura ka pura Hitler bana diya hai. Upar se… Devi Maa bhi. Samajh rahe h aap?”

Her laughter bubbled out, and Mahir simply watched, his eyes full of adoration. For him, seeing Bela laugh freely was a joy in itself.

Mahir (lightly chuckling):

“Haan, stand-up comedians hain teeno. Main toh kehta hoon har Sunday inka show lagwa do. Side income ho jaayegi.”

Bela (playfully narrowing her eyes, pulling his cheek affectionately):

“Wah… kya idea hai na! Aapko har chhoti baat mein business hi dikhai deta hai, Mr. Sehgal.”

Mahir (grinning, pulling her closer):

“Arey businessman hoon. Profit ke bina baat hi nahi karta main, Mrs. Sehgal.”

Bela leaned into him comfortably, the laughter still lingering in her tone as she recalled the trio’s antics.

Bela (between chuckles):

“Mujhe abhi bhi hasi aa rahi hai… teeno series ke liye lad rahe the. Vanshu toh dono ka phone cheenne mein lagi thi. Aur wo dono bade dramebaaz… Akshu ka bas chalta toh abhi bhaag jaati yahan se. Aur Khushi—mujhe sherni bulaya, Radhika ko Hitler! Itni maar khaane ke baad bhi koi itni bakwaas kar sakta hai? Unka dimaag sach mein alag hi chal raha hai.. Inki ladai mai bhi itni masoomiyat h na Mahir ji ki koi udaas reh hi nhi sakta inke hote hue.. Ek alag hi raunak aa gayi h ghar mai maano!”

Her laughter rang in the room, full and unrestrained this time.

Mahir (smiling warmly, eyes softening):

“Talent hai unmein… dard mein bhi comedy dhoondhne ka. Waise, jo haal dekha maine unka… mujhe toh sach mein daya aa rahi thi. Bechare kitna sambhalte hue chal rahe the.”

Bela’s laughter quieted, her smile gentler now. She rested her hand on Mahir’s, squeezing lightly.

Bela (softly, almost to herself):

“Pagal hain… lekin meri zimmedaari hai ab.”

Mahir glanced at her — the strict mask gone, replaced by a tenderness she never showed anyone else. And in that quiet moment, he knew — as much as Bela disciplined them, every ounce of it came from love.

They sat side by side, sipping their coffee in a quiet comfort only they shared. For a few minutes, the silence was enough — warm, steady, grounding.

Then Mahir broke it gently.

Mahir (softly, glancing at Bela):

“Khushi ke debate ke baare mein kuch socha hai, Bela? Agar usne part nahi liya… toh tum jaanti ho, wo dono bhi peeche hat jaayengi.”

Bela lowered her cup, her eyes thoughtful.

Bela (with a sigh):

“Haan… jaanti hoon. Kal main Principal sir se baat karne ki puri koshish karungi. Teeno ke beech ka pyaar main shuru se dekhti aa rahi hoon, Mahir ji. Pata hai, sabse pehli cheez jisne mujhe in baccho ki taraf kheench liya tha, wo unki dosti thi. Unki baaton mein kabhi yeh ehsaas hi nahi hota ki yeh teen alag hain. Bilkul… bilkul humare bacchon ki tarah lagte hain. Ek kahani ki teen kisse.”

Her lips curved Into a wistful smile, her voice turning softer.

Bela (continuing, with warmth):

“Jab inhe dekhti hoon, toh mujhe Aashi, Vanu aur Kiku ki jhalak dikh jaati hai… Dost hone ke bawajood, behen se bhi zyaada gehra rishta nibhaana inhe aata hai. Aur yeh… bohot badi baat hai.”

Mahir nodded slowly, admiration glinting in his eyes.

Mahir (calmly):

“Bilkul. Aaj kal aisi dosti kahan dekhne ko milti hai? Teeno ek dusre ki taakat hain… aur yahi unhe mazboot banata hai.”

At his words, Bela’s eyes softened further. A memory stirred — sharp, vivid, painful. Before she could stop it, her eyes glistened, a single tear slipping down her cheek.

Mahir noticed instantly. He set his cup aside and cupped her face gently, his thumb brushing away the tear.

Mahir (quietly, with understanding):

“Uski yaad aa gayi hai… na?”

Bela swallowed, her voice heavy, her nod slow.

Bela (choked, trembling):

“Haan… uski sabse keemti amanat aaj bhi hum sambhaal rahe hain, Mahir ji. Har roz na chahte hue bhi mujhe meri bacchi ki aankhon mai uski jhalak dikh jaati h.. Jaise wo bilkul mere saamne ho.. Mere teeno bacche ek dusre ki jaan hain. Dar lagta hai… kahin yeh sach unhe tod na de. Warna sab… bikhar jaayega.”

Before her fear could spiral further, Mahir clasped her hands firmly, cutting her words short. His voice was steady, unshaken.

Mahir (reassuring, with conviction):

“Bela… aisa kuch nahi hoga. Hum hain na. Yeh sach kabhi samne nahi aayega. Hamari beti sirf… hamari hai. Samjhi tum? Humare diye hue sanskaar, hamari parwarish unmein basi hai. Duniya ki koi taakat inhe ek doosre se alag nahi kar sakti. Rishte… dil se nibhaye jaate hain. Tumhe pata hai na.”

Bela closed her eyes for a moment, letting his words sink in. She nodded faintly, but the ache lingered.

Bela (in a low murmur, lost in thought):

“Jaanti hoon… bas kabhi-kabhi us din ki yaad aa jaati hai. Jaise ek reel aankhon ke saamne chal raha ho… wo raat… aur humara faisla…”

Her voice trailed off. Mahir pulled her closer, holding her as the weight of the past pressed on her heart. His calm warmth anchored her, even as her mind drifted back to the memory that still haunted them both — a truth hidden, a decision that still echoed in their present.

Mahir, sensing the heaviness in Bela’s heart, decided to break it with his usual mischief.

Mahir (teasing, with a grin):

“Waise, Devi Maa… aapke nau haath kahaan hain? Aur trishool kidhar chhupa rakha hai?”

Bela’s lips curved wider through her tears. She spotted a wooden scale lying on the table, picked it up with mock drama, and raised it like a weapon.

Bela (smiling through the act):

“Yeh raha mera trishool!”

Mahir threw his head back and laughed, clapping once in amusement.

Mahir (laughing, hands raised in fake surrender):

“Arre wah! Kya hathiyaar hai… isko dekh ke toh rakshas bhi bhaag jaaye! Jai Mata Di—nahi, nahi… Bela Devi ki jai ho!”

Bela chuckled and swatted his arm lightly with the scale.

Bela (shaking her head, half-laughing):

“Aapka kuch nahi ho sakta.”

Then, remembering something, her tone softened but still playful.

Bela:

“Waise Mr. Sehgal, kal aapki ek bohot important meeting h… yaad hai na?”

Mahir immediately sat up straighter, putting on an exaggerated serious face.

Mahir (dramatically, bowing slightly):

“Devi Maa, aapke hote hue koi kaise bhool sakta hai? Sab ready h… bas meri Kali Maa ek baar approve kar dein. Kyuki unke aage toh sakshat bholenath ki nhi chali mai toh bechara masoom sa pati hoon.”

Bela narrowed her eyes playfully, glaring at him for the “Kali Maa” quip, before grabbing a pillow and hitting him with it.

Bela (pretending annoyance):

“Bas! Ab chup! Itne hi bhole h toh jaake mere liye ice cream leke aaiye.. Devi ka dimaag shaant kariye.”

Mahir laughed even harder, clutching the pillow like a shield, while Bela shook her head at his antics and walked out of the room with a small smile tugging her lips — his laughter still echoing behind her.

---

Bela was still chuckling under her breath at Mahir’s nautanki as she walked upstairs. Passing by the trio’s room, her steps instinctively slowed. She paused, glancing through the half-open door — and froze.

They were fast asleep.

For a moment, Bela simply stood there. The stern mask she wore all day slipped, replaced by a tender smile. Quietly, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The sight before her warmed her heart — yet pinched it too.

Bela (softly, with a fond smile):

“Pagal bacche…”

Vanshu lay in the middle, curled up, the blanket half sliding to the floor. Akshu had a leg flung over Vanshu, while Vanshu’s arm rested gently on Khushi’s cheek. All three were tangled together, holding onto one another as if even in dreams they couldn’t let go.

Bela’s heart melted.

Bela (murmuring affectionately):

“Kaun kahega subah mandir mein lad rahe the… aur abhi dekho, ek dusre ko chhodne ka naam hi nahi le rahe.”

Her smile, however, slowly faded. In the dim light, the red-blue marks stood out stark on their arms and legs — reminders of her stick, of her discipline.

Her throat tightened. She reached forward instinctively, fingers hovering above Vanshu’s arm, but stopped midway, afraid to disturb their sleep.

Bela (in a trembling whisper):

“Tchh… zyada ho gaya kya?”

Her eyes fell on the bluish spots along their legs, where the stick must have landed too harshly. Since morning she had kept her mask firm, showing it was nothing — but now, seeing the bruises up close, she couldn’t hold back anymore.

With a shaky breath, she pulled open the side-table drawer, taking out an ointment. Gathering her courage, she scooped some onto her fingers and began applying it gently to their arms and legs, her voice low, muttering like a mother.

Bela (whispering as she worked):

“Itna gussa dilate kyun ho mujhe… sab sach keh dete toh yeh naubat hi nahi aati.”

When she touched Akshu’s leg, the girl stirred faintly, her face twitching in pain. Bela froze for a second, then resumed carefully.

Bela (softly, guilty):

“Abhi uth gaye na toh dawai bhi lagane nahi denge… aur na khud se lagayenge thik se. Bas guilt mein sulagte rahenge. Aur ma’am se toh… sharam aati hai na.”

She stopped mid-sentence, her own words striking her. She whispered to herself.

Bela (a bitter laugh under her breath):

“Aur aaye bhi kyu na?Ma’am hoon, maa thodi. Khud hi line cross karti hoon, aur dosh bacchon ko deti hoon… kya karti hai Bela…”

She sighed deeply, finishing the last strokes of ointment with the gentlest touch. Once done, she carefully pulled the duvet over their tangled bodies, tucking them in securely.

Her gaze lingered on their sleeping faces — soft, innocent, untouched by the storms of the day.

With one final look — a smile laced with love and regret — she quietly stepped out of the room, closing the door behind her.

---

To be continued..