[35]
The night was filled with laughter and excitement as Siya and her siblings returned home to Mumbai after their trip. They entered the house, greeted by the familiar warmth of their surroundings. Ritika, along with Tara, eagerly awaited their return, eager to hear all about the trip.
After a few minutes of conversation, they dispersed to their respective rooms to unwind and change out of their travel clothes.
As Siya collapsed onto her bed, exhaustion washing over her, she declared, "Bhai ham thak gaye. Aaj raat tak soyenge ham ab. Don't even think about waking me up."
With a contented sigh, she closed her eyes, relishing the comfort of her own bed after a day filled with excitement.
In the tranquil hours of the night, Siya stirred from her slumber, her eyes adjusting to the dim glow of the room. Across the room, she spotted Divya, engrossed in her studies, a determined look etched on her face.
"Kitna padhna hai re tujhe? Aaj hi to wapas aaye hain," Siya remarked, her voice laced with drowsiness as she stretched and yawned.
["How much studying do you have to do, you just returned today?"]
"I can't waste my time," Divya replied, her focus unwavering as she continued to pore over her books.
"You will fall sick, thoda to rest kar le," Ritika chimed in from her spot, where she was watching a movie on her laptop.
Suddenly, a realisation dawned on Siya, prompting her to share her news with her sisters. "Didi... I have to tell you something," she announced, drawing the attention of both Divya and Ritika.
"Shashwat proposed to me." As she revealed, Ritika's reaction was immediate - she choked on her chips in shock, while Divya's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Kya?? Sachi didi? Kab kaise??" Divya exclaimed, closing her notebook and joining them on the bed.
Siya recounted the details, her excitement palpable as she relived the moment.
"Bhaii... I am speechless!! This was so amazing!" Ritika gushed, resting her head dreamily on Divya's shoulder.
"Sach me didi... I am so happy for you," Divya added, her smile reflecting genuine happiness for her sister.
"Swami ko kuch sikhna chahiye apne bhai se," Ritika teased, a playful glint in her eye.
["Swami should learn something from his brother."]
Just then, Siya checked her Instagram and noticed numerous messages from Shashwat.
"Pahoch gayi?"
"Are you sleeping??"
"I think yes.. sleep well."
"Uth gayi," a message from an hour ago read.
A smile tugged at Siya's lips as she replied, "Abhi uthe. Kya kar rahe hain?"
["Just woke up. What are you doing?"]
In the quiet of his room, Shashwat's focus remained fixed on his math problems, his mind whirring with calculations. Suddenly, a message notification lit up his screen, drawing his attention away from the numbers.
"Solving maths," he quickly replied to Siya's query on Instagram, a small smile playing on his lips.
A few minutes passed before he mustered the courage to type out another message. "Mishti... can I message you on WhatsApp?" he sent, his heart racing with anticipation.
Siya couldn't help but chuckle at his message, a warm feeling spreading through her chest. "Haan," she replied, her excitement palpable.
Within moments, her phone buzzed with a new message on WhatsApp. It was Shashwat. "Mishti...can I call you?" he asked, his request causing her breath to catch in her throat. She had never spoken with him on the phone before.
Gathering her nerves, she typed back a simple, "Haan," before glancing over at her sisters, who were immersed in their own tasks once again.
With a racing heart, Siya made her way to the balcony, the anticipation building with each passing second as she waited for his call.
Just then, Siya's phone rang. Shashwat's name flashed on the screen, and with a deep breath, she answered the call. A few moments of silence followed, filled with the subtle sounds of their respective surroundings.
"Kya kar rahi ho?" Shashwat asked, standing in his own balcony and looking up at the night sky.
"Aapse baat," Siya replied softly, her heart pounding. Shashwat chuckled, breaking the initial awkwardness.
The silence returned, this time more comfortable, but still filled with an unspoken anticipation. Talking face to face had always been easier for both of them.
"Khana khaya?" Shashwat broke the silence again, trying to keep the conversation flowing.
[Had your food?]
"Abhi nahi...aapne?" Siya responded, her voice gentle.
[Not yet. You?]
"Nahi," he admitted.
[No.]
Another pause ensued, each of them struggling to find the right words to say. Finally, Siya found a topic. "Aap NCSC pe kab jaa rahe?"
[When will you go for NCSC?]
"Day after tomorrow," Shashwat replied, his tone steady.
"When will you return?" she asked, curiosity and a hint of hope in her voice.
"I don't know...kyun? Miss karoge mujhe?" He asked playfully, leaning against the balcony railing.
"Wo... it's my birthday after one week. Aap tab tak aa jaoge?" She said, catching him by surprise.
"Sach me? When?" He asked, intrigued.
"14 December," she revealed.
"Haan...our exhibition is on the 13th, so we will return on the 13th only," he said, feeling relieved. Siya smiled, her heart lightening at the thought.
Just then, Tara's voice called from inside, summoning them for dinner. "Accha, mummy is calling us for dinner. Byy byy," Siya said, a hint of regret in her voice.
"Byy Mishti," Shashwat said warmly, making her blush.
"Accha..aap bhi kha ke so jana." She said.
"Whatever my Mishti says." He said, her cheeks flushed and she looked down.
"By," she replied, disconnecting the call with a smile still lingering on her lips. She took a moment to savour the feeling before heading inside, her heart buoyed by their conversation.
The morning sun cast a warm glow over the café as Akash sat outside, resting his chin on his hand.
His mind was preoccupied with the harsh words he'd heard from his father and stepmother at home.
Lost in thought, he suddenly noticed a rose appearing near his face from behind.
His expression brightened, knowing it was Richa.
He turned to see her standing there with a smile.
"Good morning," she said, handing him the rose.
"Good morning, Richu," he replied, his smile widening as she sat down in front of him.
"I brought poha today," she announced, placing a tiffin box on the table.
Akash frowned, noticing the unfamiliar lunchbox. "I guess this is your lunch box," he said, his brow furrowing.
"Wo... haan, this is mine. I bought it in another box. Mere liye ek naya aaya toh wo mai lekar aayi," she tried to explain.
"Stop lying, Richa," he said, his tone firmer.
"Woh... Papa ka lunch box toot gaya tha. That's why wo box papa le gaye, and there was no lunch box left," she finally admitted.
Akash closed the box and pushed it towards her. "Take this with you."
"Akash, please... I had my breakfast. Aur ye poha lunch ke time tak thanda ho jayega. I will eat from Siya and Arushi's lunch and in the canteen," she pleaded.
"Richa, I can't eat this knowing that you sacrificed your lunch for this," he said, but she quickly scooped a spoonful of poha and shoved it into his mouth, catching him by surprise.
"Richa..." he tried to protest, but she silenced him with another spoonful.
"Chup chap khao," she commanded, her eyes twinkling with determination.
Akash shook his head in defeat but smiled, touched by her gesture. He began to eat the poha, each bite filled with more than just food-it was filled with her care and concern, making the meal taste all the more special.
As Akash continued to eat the poha, Richa stood up and moved in front of him. When he finished and stood up as well, she looked into his eyes with a comforting smile.
"Akash, you know na I am here for you always. Mai hi nahi, we all are with you. Don't make yourself sad just because of some useless people," she said, her voice gentle yet firm.
Akash felt a wave of gratitude and warmth wash over him. He took her hand in his, feeling the softness and strength in her grip. "Tum hamesha rahogi na mere sath?" he asked, his voice filled with vulnerability.
["Will you always be there with me?"]
Richa lifted his palm to her lips and placed a tender kiss there. "Hamesha," she replied, smiling reassuringly.
[Always.]
Their eyes locked in a silent promise, the morning sun casting a golden hue around them.
For that moment, all the troubles and harsh words seemed to fade away, leaving only the strength of their bond.
Akash felt a renewed sense of hope and determination, knowing he had someone like Richa by his side.
At school, the students settled into their seats as the maths teacher began the lesson. The room was filled with the usual hum of concentration, pencils scratching against paper, and the occasional whisper between classmates.
Just as the teacher was explaining a complex equation on the board, the door creaked open. Another teacher stepped inside, pausing the lesson. "Excuse me," she said, addressing the maths teacher and the class. "I have an announcement regarding the annual function."
The students perked up, curious about the news. "The annual function is coming up," the teacher continued, "and we need participants for various activities. Please give your names to Reyansh Malhotra, who is the activity in-charge. He will be coordinating everything."
The class buzzed with excitement, whispers spreading quickly as the teacher left the room. The math teacher, however, seemed less than pleased with the interruption.
"This school never focuses on what's important," he grumbled, turning back to the board with a look of irritation.
"First, a trip that disrupts the schedule, and now this nonsense.
How are you supposed to learn anything if all we do is these extracurricular activities?
Alright, everyone, back to the lesson," the maths teacher commanded, trying to regain control.
"Focus on this equation. It will be on the test." He sighed and began teaching.
As the math lesson continued, the chatter about the annual function persisted in hushed whispers. Arushi leaned over to Siya and Richa, her excitement barely contained. "We should perform," she whispered, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"Haan, let's perform a dance together," Richa agreed, her enthusiasm matching Arushi's. "We'll talk to Monica ma'am. I'm sure she'll allow us."
Arushi turned to Siya, her voice urging. "Siya, tujhe bhi apna talent dikhana chahiye... so I think you should perform..."
Siya quickly interrupted, shaking her head. "No, no... I am not going to perform that," she said, her voice firm.
Richa looked at her incredulously. "Bhai, tu pagal hai kya? Everyone will love that."
Siya remained hesitant, her uncertainty evident . "Still... I am not experienced and I don't know much..." she trailed off, doubt creeping into her voice.
Arushi was resolute. "Siya, we are going to give your name. Tu karegi," she insisted, her tone leaving no room for argument.
Siya sighed, feeling the pressure from her friends but also their unwavering support. "Okk... ham try karenge," she finally conceded, a tentative smile appearing on her face.
Their whispered conversation was filled with a mix of excitement and nervous energy, their minds already racing with ideas for their performance.
Later that morning, Shashwat found himself deep in discussion with Satya Ma'am, the science teacher, about the upcoming NCSE competition.
"And who is teaming up with you from class 11th?" Satya Ma'am inquired, jotting down notes on her clipboard.
"Siya..." Shashwat began, then quickly corrected himself, feeling a blush rise to his cheeks. "I... I mean Kanak."
Satya Ma'am nodded, not noticing his slip. "Alright, let me call her. You need to prepare your chart paper soon. For that, we have to involve students who are good at art and decoration."
The activity teacher, standing nearby, chimed in, "Ma'am, there are Siya, Arushi, and Richa from class 11th. They are excellent at these activities. During Diwali, half of the decorations were done by them."
Shashwat's face brightened at the mention of Siya's name, though he tried to keep his composure.
"Haan, I know," Satya Ma'am said with a slight shake of her head. "Padhai likhai ke alawa sab me acchi hain wo teeno. Siya and Arushi should learn something from their brothers."
"Shashwat beta, go and prepare your speech and also the project," Satya Ma'am instructed, turning her attention back to him.
"Yes, ma'am. Mai Siya ko... I mean Kanak ko bula ke discuss karta hun," he replied, mentally kicking himself for the repeated slip. He turned to leave, a sigh escaping his lips once he was outside.
[Yes, ma'am. I'll siya....I mean I will call Kanak and discuss.]
Walking down the hallway, he muttered to himself with a smile, "Kahan ek time tha jab uska naam bhi nahi yaad rehta tha aur ab uske alawa koi aur naam yaad hi nahi rehta."
["There was a time when I couldn't even remember her name, and now besides her, no other name comes to mind."]
Later, the activity room was abuzz with focused energy as Siya, Arushi, Richa, Shashwat, Akash, and Kanak collaborated on their projects.
Siya, Arushi, and Richa were engrossed in preparing Shashwat's chart paper, while Kanak jotted down important notes.
Akash assisted Shashwat with the finishing touches on the project.
Akash looked over at Shashwat. "Tu na ye dekh, mai tere chart paper ko dekh ke aata hun," he said, leaving Shashwat to lean beside Richa. His close proximity caused her heart to race, and Siya and Arushi exchanged knowing glances. Shashwat shook his head in mild amusement.
[You know what, I'll come after looking at your chart paper.]
Richa elbowed Akash, trying to focus. "Akash, we are doing our work. Jaa ke Shashwat bhaiya ki help karo. Otherwise, I will complain to the teacher that you are not helping anyone, just roaming around."
"Zalim log!" Akash pouted, reluctantly heading back towards Shashwat.
Meanwhile, Shashwat reached for the glue at the same time as Siya, their hands colliding. She looked up at him, wide-eyed. He glanced at their intertwined hands and smirked as she tried to free herself, but he held on tighter. Kanak noticed and gritted her teeth.
"Shashwat, see, I have written these points. Are they ok?" Kanak asked, suddenly standing close to him and showing her notebook. Siya expected him to let go of her hand, but he continued to hold it while glancing at the notes.
"Haan, thik hai," he replied, his focus still on the notebook.
Kanak saw their hands and, irritated, sat closely beside Shashwat, her shoulder brushing against his. Shashwat frowned at the uncomfortable proximity.
"Kanak, can you please return to your place? It's getting uncomfortable," he said, his voice firm.
"Oh, I am sorry," she replied with a forced smile, moving back to her seat.
Siya seized the opportunity, pinching Shashwat's hand with her free hand. He hissed in pain and finally let go, allowing her to take the glue with a smirk.
With Kanak called away by a teacher, the atmosphere in the activity room relaxed slightly.
However, Shashwat seemed to seize the opportunity to tease Siya further.
He brushed his hand against hers, which was resting on the bench.
Surprised, Siya shifted her hand, but Shashwat placed his hand over hers, making her eyes widen in shock.
"Siya, pass that marker," Richa called out, breaking her thoughts. Siya tried to pull her hand free, but Shashwat held it tightly. She glared at him, reaching for the marker with her other hand.
"Siya, uss hath se utha na... jyada easy hoga," Arushi suggested, noting her awkward attempt.
[Siya, lift it with that hand... it'll be easier.]
"Haan," Richa echoed.
"Arre... ham kar lenge," Siya insisted, still struggling to reach the marker.
Frustrated, she turned to Shashwat. "Aap please wo marker pass kar denge?"
[Please pass the marker.]
"I'm busy," Shashwat replied, feigning deep concentration on his work. A small, mischievous smile tugged at his lips.
"To phir hamara hath choriye," Siya demanded loudly.
Her sudden outburst caught everyone's attention, making Shashwat's eyes widen in surprise.
Akash, in the middle of drinking water, choked and quickly moved towards their seat, noticing their intertwined hands.
Embarrassed, Shashwat let go, his ears and face turning red.
[Then leave my hand.]
Arushi and Richa smirked at the sight. "Bhaiya, what was that?" Richa asked, unable to hide her amusement.
"Haan bhaiya, I didn't know you were this much romantic!" Arushi teased.
Akash, ever the dramatist, clutched his head. "Bhai... Mujhe chakkar aa raha hai... Tu Shashwat hi hai na?? Hey bhagwan, mere bhole bhale Shashu ko kisi ne kidnap kar ke ye duplicate maal bhej diya. Please bhagwan ke liye mere purane Shashu ko vapas lao."
[Brother... I'm feeling dizzy... You are Shashwat, right? Oh God, someone kidnapped my innocent Shashu and sent this duplicate. Please, God, bring back my old Shashu.]
Siya struggled to control her laughter at Akash's theatrics. Just then, Satya Ma'am entered with Kanak, and Shashwat internally sighed in relief, glad for the interruption. He shot a glare at Siya, who merely shrugged her shoulders, a hint of a smile on her lips.
Returning to his project, Shashwat couldn't help but smile at himself, a warm feeling that lingered despite the brief embarrassment.
After some time, Siya, deep in concentration, accidentally drew a line on Arushi's chart paper, making Arushi gasp in horror.
"Siya... tune mera chart paper kharab kiya! Ye le!" Arushi exclaimed, retaliating by scratching her marker on Siya's chart paper.
"Bhai, galti se hua tha! Pagal hai kya!" Siya protested, but then she, too, marked Arushi's paper in revenge.
Arushi grabbed Siya's hand, and in the ensuing tussle, the entire bottle of glue toppled over, spilling onto Richa's chart paper.
Chaos ensued as the two began to destroy each other's work, leaving everyone else in shock.
"What the hell are you doing!! Tumhare class ke liye nahi hai ye!
This is for NCSC, kal tak chahiye tha hame ye before they could leave for NCSC!
Pura barbad kar diya! And now school is about to over.
You people are good for nothing! Kuch kam thik se nahi hota!
" Satya Ma'am's voice rang out, filled with frustration.
The students froze, realizing the gravity of their actions. Arushi stepped forward, guilt evident on her face. "Sorry, Ma'am, ham ek sath milkar isko aaj raat tak kar lenge complete. Then I will give these to bhaiya."
Satya Ma'am sighed, clearly irritated but willing to give them a chance. "Ok, but koi gadbad nahi!" she warned sternly.
Just then, a student entered the room, looking for Arushi. "Arushi, tumhara couple salsa dance tha na Manav ke sath? Ma'am is calling you for practice," the student announced.
Arushi looked torn for a moment but nodded. "Haan, coming!" She turned to the others, "I'll be back soon. You guys start fixing the mess we made."
"Kya fix the mess? Tune jo kiya hai wo kon fix karega? Pehle ye thik karva phir jana." Siya said, grabbing her arms and pulling her back.
[Who will fix the mess you created? First, fix this, then go.]
After sometime , Arushi was immersed in her salsa dance practice with Manav. Monica Ma'am was instructing them, demonstrating the steps with precision.
"One, two, three, four... keep your movements fluid," Monica guided, watching their progress closely.
Just then, Reyansh entered the room, carrying a notebook and pen. "Ma'am, can you please tell me the performances once again?" he asked, but his attention was quickly drawn to Arushi and Manav dancing together.
Monica nodded, focusing on Reyansh. "Sure, you guys carry on," she told the dancers before turning back to Reyansh. She began listing the performances, but Reyansh's eyes were fixed on Manav and Arushi. As Manav's hand rested on Arushi's waist, Reyansh's grip on his pen tightened until it snapped.
"Reyansh, what is this?" Monica asked, startled by the sound.
"Ah... nothing, ma'am... galti se," he replied, forcing a smile, though his eyes kept drifting back to the dancing pair.
"Samajh me aaya maine bola jo?" Monica asked, sensing his distraction.
"Yes, ma'am," Reyansh said hastily, his voice strained. He left the room abruptly, not wanting to watch any longer.
As he walked away, a mixture of frustration and jealousy churned within him.
He clenched his fists, his mind replaying the scene of Manav's hand on Arushi's waist. Trying to shake off the feeling, he took a deep breath, resolving to focus on his responsibilities, but the image lingered, gnawing at him as he made his way back to his duties.
Arushi and Richa went to Siya's house to finish their project. They worked until nightfall and asked to stay over. After dinner, they returned to Siya's room. They were relieved to complete the project and relaxed on the bed.
"Baitho, Ritika didi aa rahi hai cold drink le kar," Siya said, motioning to the bed and a couple of bean bags scattered on the floor.
"Chal chal, jada formal mat ho. Baithne hi aaye hain, khade thodi rahenge," Arushi replied, rolling her eyes playfully as she plopped down onto a bean bag.
[Come on, don't be too formal. We've come to sit, not stand.]
Siya laughed and sat on the bed, cross-legged. "Acha, what should we do?"
Arushi and Richa looked at each other, thinking.
Finally, Richa spoke up, her eyes lighting up with excitement.
"You know, I watched Nail Art on YouTube once.
In that, they drop drops of nail polish into a bowl of water.
Then they use a toothpick to create a design and dip their nails into it, so the design gets transferred onto the nails. "
Siya's eyes widened with interest. "Yahi karen kya? Ham Ritika didi ke makeup box se lekar aate hain, unke paas bahot sari hain."
[Shall we do the same thing? I'll go get some from Ritika didi's makeup box; she has a lot.]
Arushi and Richa nodded eagerly, and the three girls got up to fetch the nail polishes. They carefully selected a few bottles from Ritika's bag in which her cosmetics were kept.
As they settled back, Divya and Ritika entered carrying trays laden with cold drinks and a variety of snacks. The scent of fresh samosas and fries wafted through the air, making everyone's mouths water.
"What's happening here?" Ritika asked, raising an eyebrow at the sight of the nail polish bottles.
"Hum nail art karne wale hain," Siya explained. "Tum bhi join karo na, didi!"
Ritika smiled and set down the tray. "Ok, but you all have to clean all this."
"Deal!" all three girls chorused, their excitement palpable.
They gathered around a small table, setting up a bowl of water and arranging the nail polish bottles.
They opened YouTube and started following the nail art tutorial step by step. Arushi carefully dripped the nail polish into the bowl of water, and Richa used a toothpick to create intricate patterns. One by one, they dipped their nails into the water, hoping for beautiful results.
"Aaaaaaaaaa! Mummy, mere nails kharab ho gaye! Lag raha hai kisi janwar ne apna pet saaf kar diya ho issi me," Siya exclaimed in frustration, looking at her smudged and messy nails. She quickly grabbed some nail polish remover and started cleaning them off.
[Aaaaaaaaaa! Mummy !!my nails got ruined! It feels like some animal cleaned its stomach in them.]
Ritika laughed, shaking her head. "Ye sab bas YouTube pe hi acha lagta hai. Real me karne jao to yahi hota hai."
["All this looks good only on YouTube. When you try it in real life, this is what happens."]
Siya sighed and looked at Divya. "Isse bag me rakh aao pehle, phir sochte hain kya karen."
[Put this in the bag first, then we'll think about what to do.]
Divya nodded and gathered the nail polish bottles.
Meanwhile, Shashwat was preparing for his National Children's Science Congress (NCSC) project when his phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID and rolled his eyes.
"Siya hogi, vaise bhi ye log abhi jaag rahi hongi," Shashwat muttered to himself before picking up the phone. To his surprise, it was Akash.
[Siya might be there, anyway, these people must be awake by now.]
"Haan bol, Akash," he answered with a disappointed face.
"Arre, pata hai, abhi insta pe reel dekha. Sare friends log raat me bahar ghumne gaye hain," Akash said, his voice brimming with excitement.
[Oh, you know, I just watched a reel on Insta. All friends have gone out for a night out.]
"Haan, to? Tune mujhe itne raat me reel ke bare me batane ko call kiya hai?" Shashwat asked, clearly irritated.
["So what? Did you call me to tell me about reels at this late hour?"]
"Aree nhi, bhai. Mai ye keh raha tha ki ham sab bhi chalen aaj raat, jab tum sabke mummy papa so jayenge sab," Akash suggested.
[Oh no, brother. I was saying that we should also go out tonight, when your parents are asleep, everyone.]
"Dimaag Vrindavan me bech ke aa gaya kya? Itne raat ko ham sab akele bahar? Papa ko pata chalega, toh pehle mera muh todenge, phir tera. Aur Reyansh ke papa ko ham sab jante hain, wo to Reyansh ke sath ham dono ki bhi class le lenge," Shashwat warned.
[Did you sold your brain in Vrindavan? Going out alone at this time? If Dad finds out, he'll break my face first, then yours. And Reyansh's dad knows all of us, he'll give both of us a lesson along with Reyansh.]
"Arre, kuch nahi hoga, yaar. Please chal na, 10 baje tak chalte hain," Akash pleaded.
[Oh, nothing will happen, buddy. Please come on, let's go until 10.]
"Chup chap reel scroll kar aur dekh ke so ja. Mujhe bahot sari preparation karni hai NCSC ke liye," Shashwat said firmly.
[Quietly scroll through reels and then go to sleep. I have a lot of preparation to do for NCSC.]
"Okay, fine. I was thinking you, me, Rey, Arav, Darsh, Ritika di, Richu, Divya, Aru, and (stretching the word) SIYAAAA will all go together.," Akash said, trying to tempt Shashwat.
"Kya? Siya is also coming?" Shashwat asked, his interest piqued.
"Haan, maine baat ki usse. Usne kaha agar Shashwat chalenge to mai to chalungi hi," Akash lied smoothly.
[Yes, I talked to her. She said if Shashwat goes, then she'll definitely come.]
"A... actually, chalte hain, par 11 baje tak. Taki papa log ki neend achi ho jaye. Varna agar uth gaye 10 baje tak, to problem ho jayegi. Aur mai Arav bhai ko bolta hun," Shashwat conceded.
[A... actually, let's go, but until 11. So that your parents can have a good sleep. Otherwise, if they wake up by 10, there might be a problem.]
"Haan, ok ok. Chal, bye," Akash said quickly, cutting the call and immediately dialling Siya's number.
"Hello, kya hua bhaiya? Itne raat ko kyun call kiya?" Siya asked, confused.
[Hello, what's up? Why did you call so late at night?]
"Well, actually, I thought we could all go out for ice cream and have a bit of a night out." Akash suggested.
"Bahot funny joke tha. Chaliye ab so jaiye," Siya said, unimpressed.
[That was a very funny joke. Go to sleep now.]
"Isliye maine Richa ko call nahi kiya. Wo mujhe suna deti. Par tum bhi Richa ki hi tarah bol rahi ho... chalo na, sab chalenge, maza aayega," Akash insisted.
[That's why I didn't call Richa. She scolds me. But you're also talking like Richa... come on, everyone will go, it will be fun.]
"Papa ko pata chala na, to ham Bhai-Behan ke sath sath aap sabka night out bhi karva denge, sach me," Siya warned, her voice tinged with genuine concern.
[If Dad finds out, he'll make all of us, along with Brother and Sister, have a night out, seriously.]
"Arre, ham 11 baje tak chalenge na. Aur ye baat," Akash paused for dramatic effect, stretching Shashwat's name, "SHASHWAT ne khud bola hai."
[Shashwat was saying that we will go at 11 pm.]
"What? Shashwat? He'll also go?" Siya asked, her eyes lighting up with excitement.
"Haan, in fact, yeh plan maine Shashwat ko bataya aur usse ek baar me hi acha laga. Par usne kaha ki agar Siya chalegi to hi mai aaunga. Ab tum hi mana karogi to wo bechara kya karega," Akash lied, knowing exactly how to push Siya's buttons.
[Yes, in fact, I told Shashwat about this plan, and he liked it right away. But he said he'll come only if Siya agrees. Now, if you refuse, what will that poor guy do?]
"Hamne mana thodi kiya tha. Thik hai, hum ye baat sabko bata dete hain. Aap Reyansh Bhaiya ko call kar ke bata dena," Siya said, her resolve firming up.
[I didn't refuse. Okay, I'll tell everyone about this. You call Reyansh Brother and inform him.]
"Okk, chalo done," Akash said, cutting the call with a triumphant grin.
Siya put her phone down and turned to the others in the room, who were still debating what to do next after their failed nail art attempt.
"Guys, listen up!" Siya said, clapping her hands to get their attention. "Akash bhaiya ka call tha. Unhone bola hai ki hum sab raat ko ice cream khane aur thoda night out karne bahar ja rahe hain. Ham 11 baje tak jayenge Arav bhaiya car lekar aa raha hain."
[It was Akash bhaiya's call. He said that we're all going out at night to have ice cream and a little night out. We'll go until 11, and Arav bhaiya is bringing the car.]
The room buzzed with excitement as everyone started talking at once.
"Really? Swami bhi chal rahe?" Ritika exclaimed.
"Par, ham itne raat ko kaise ja sakte hain?" Richa asked, worried.
[But it's too late.]
"Akash bhaiya ne bola hai 11 baje tak chalenge. Aur ye plan Shashwat ne bhi approve kiya hai. So, no worries," Siya reassured them.
[Akash brother said we'll go until 11. And Shashwat has also approved this plan. So, no worries.]
Meanwhile, Akash dialled Reyansh's number, waiting impatiently as the phone rang.
"Hello?" Reyansh answered, sounding half-asleep.
"Rey, bhai, uth jao! Plan hai!" Akash said energetically.
"Kya plan? I just fell asleep " Reyansh grumbled.
"Arey, Shashwat mai sab log raat ko ice cream khane aur night out pe ja rahe hain. Tu bhi chal. 11 baje tak chalenge, jab sab so jayenge," Akash explained.
["Hey, Shashwat and everyone is going out for ice cream and a night out tonight. You should come too. We'll go until 11, when everyone is asleep."]
Reyansh sat up, now fully awake. "Seriously? Ye plan Shashwat ne banaya?"
[Seriously? Shashwat made this plan?]
"Nhi plan to mera tha par shashwat ne bhi Haan bola hai" Akash said.
[No, the plan was mine, but Shashwat also agreed to it.]
"Thik hai, sounds fun. Main aata hun." Reyansh said , excited.
"Great! Milte hain 11 baje," Akash said, feeling a rush of satisfaction as he ended the call.
Back in Siya's room, the girls were getting ready, discussing outfits and planning how to sneak out without waking anyone up.
"Yaar kya pehnu?" Siya asked, rifling through her wardrobe with a worried look.
[What should I wear, buddy?]
" Siya wear something beautiful , jaise kurti," Richa suggested.
"Kurti? Over nahi lagega? Shashwat kya sochenge, ki night out pe aayi hai ya party mein?" Siya said, making a face.
[A kurti? Won't it be too much? What will Shashwat think, that you've come for a night out or a party?]
Just then, Ritika entered the room, looking ready and elegant. "Ho gaya decide tera?" Ritika asked.
"Nahi, didi, batao na kya pehnu. Shashwat bhi aayenge, to agar kurti pehni to over lagungi na," Siya said, her face scrunching in indecision.
[No, sis, tell me what to wear. Shashwat will also come, so if I wear a kurti, won't it be too much?]
"Mai aur Divya ready bhi ho gaye, Richa aur Arushi bhi already ready thi.
Tera hi hai bas... Iss se acha tu relationship mein aati hi na.
Pehle kuch bhi pehn ke chal deti thi, ab do ghante tereko kapde decide karne me lagenge.
.. Side hatt, mai dekhti hun kuch," Ritika said, moving Siya aside as she pouted.
[Divya and I are already ready, Richa and Arushi were already ready too. It's just you... It would have been better if you were in a relationship. Earlier, you would just put on anything and leave, now it takes you two hours to decide on clothes... Move aside, let me see something.]
Ritika pulled out a floral one-piece dress from Siya's closet. "Yeh pehn na, It's perfect."
"Kya, isse? Shashwat ke samne aise kapde kabhi nahi pehne. Ya to jeans top ya kurti, aur itni thand me ye pehne? Hamari hi ice cream jam jayegi" Siya said, hesitating.
[What, this? I never wear such clothes in front of Shashwat. Either jeans and a top or a kurti, and wearing this in such cold weather? Our ice cream will freeze.]
"Shashwat tera pati nahi hai jo tu sharma rahi aise kapde pehn ne se and upar se ek denim jacket aur neeche socks pehen le lambe vale," Ritika said with a sigh.
[Shashwat isn't your husband for you to be shy about wearing such clothes, and besides, wear a denim jacket over it and long socks underneath.]
"In future to honge na didi," Arushi teased, winking at Siya.
"Haan, to pati ke samne to iss se bhi chote kapde pehne jate hain," Ritika blurted out, immediately biting her tongue.
[Yes, even shorter clothes are worn in front of husbands.]
"Chee, yaar didi, hatt," Siya said, her cheeks turning red.
"Arre, sorry, sorry. Jaa ke ready ho. Vaise bhi yeh knees ke neeche tak ki dress hai aur socks to pehenegi hi tu," Ritika said, patting Siya on the back encouragingly.
[Oh, sorry, sorry. Go and get ready. Anyway, it's a dress that goes below the knees, and you'll wear socks, right?]
With a resigned sigh, Siya took the dress and went to change,
Siya came out of the bathroom, her hair slightly damp. She picked up a comb and began running it through her hair tying her hair in high pony.
Just then, they heard a knock on the door. Everyone's eyes widened, and they quickly jumped onto the bed, pretending to be asleep, thinking it was Siya's father.
"What happened papa?" Siya said, opening the door slightly.
"Aye, papa nahi. Mai hun....utho, nautanki company. Bahar khade hain sab," Reyansh said, looking at the girls.
[Hey, it's not dad. It's me... wake up, drama company. Everyone is waiting outside.]
They sat up on the bed, sighing in relief. "Ohhh, tu hai. Ham sab soche papa hain," Ritika said, putting a hand on her chest.
"Chalen?" Reyansh asked, looking around the room. Everyone nodded eagerly.
They quietly slipped out of the house, careful not to make any noise.
As Shashwat scrolled through his phone reading something about his project, his eyes wandered and landed on Siya.
She was already looking at him, a shy smile playing on her lips.
In her floral one-piece dress, she looked like a doll, her natural beauty highlighted by the soft light of the street lamp.
Her hair was tied up in a high ponytail, and the light pink lip gloss added a subtle shine to her smile. Shashwat felt his heart skip a beat.
Siya noticed the look in Shashwat's eyes and felt a blush creep up her cheeks. She quickly looked away, feeling her heart race. The group was busy discussing where to go first, but for Shashwat and Siya, time seemed to stand still.
"Chalo, sab ready hain?" Reyansh's voice broke through the moment
Shashwat snapped out of his reverie and nodded, though his thoughts were still lingering on Siya.
"Mere swami kahan hain?" Ritika asked.
[Where is my swami?]
"He is at the driving seat, bhabhi," Darsh said. She went to the window and knocked.
"Swami, apne charno me mera pranam sweekar kijiye," she said, joining her hands, making everyone laugh while Arav facepalmed himself.
[Swami, please accept my humble regards at your feet.]
"Shut up, Ritika!" he said, and she giggled.
"Bhai, ye achanak se itni garmi kaise ho gayi!" Ritika said, fanning herself, and everyone frowned.
[Brother, how did it suddenly get so hot?]
"Aree ye to mere swami hain jo itne hot lag rahe hain," she said, and everyone giggled while Reyansh smacked her head.
[Oh, this is my swami who is looking so hot.]
"Tumhe sharam nahi aati apne bhai ke samne hi flirt karte huye!" he asked.
[Don't you feel ashamed flirting in front of your brother!]
"Nahi aati.. pyar kiya to Darna kya?" she said, and everyone shook their heads while Arav wished he could dig himself inside the car.
"How will we settle in this one car ?" Richa asked, looking at the group and then at the car sceptically.
"Adjust karte hain... Divya, tu Siya ke god me baith. Aru, tu Ritika di ke. Mai Reyansh ke god me baith jaunga. Darsh, Shashwat ke. Richa, tum akele baith jao kyunki tumhare upar ye log me se koi baitha to tum toot jaogi," Akash said with a grin, earning a playful slap on his hand from Richa.
[Let's adjust... Divya, you sit on Siya's lap. Aru, you sit on Ritika di's lap. I'll sit on Reyansh's lap. Darsh, on Shashwat's. Richa, you sit alone because if any of these guys sit on you, you'll break.]
"Bhai, aise kaise baith payenge?" Siya asked, concerned about the cramped space.
"Arre, ho jayega," Ritika assured her confidently.
After much shuffling and laughter, they finally managed to squeeze into the car.
Divya sat on Siya's lap. Arushi perched carefully on Ritika's knees, making sure not to squish her.
Akash and Reyansh, both tall and lanky, somehow managed to fit into the same seat, laughing at the absurdity of the situation .
Richa also settled. Darsh settled onto Shashwat's lap in the front seat, who was still trying to get comfortable himself.
"Everyone settled?" Arav asked, sitting in the driver seat.
"Yep, let's go!" Ritika called from her spot, giving a thumbs-up.
The car started moving, a cacophony of excited chatter and laughter filling the small space.
Despite the tight squeeze, everyone's spirits were high.
As they drove through the quiet streets, the thrill of their secret night out added to the excitement, making the uncomfortable seating arrangements seem trivial.
Shashwat was trying to see Siya through the mirror but Arushi was sitting on Siya's lap so she blocked his view. He shifted slightly to get a better view, but Arushi's head blocked his line of sight. He sighed, resigning himself to the situation.
"Let's eat ice cream first," Arav suggested, steering the car towards the nearest ice cream parlour.
As they stepped out of the car, the group could already smell the sweet aroma of freshly made waffle cones and creamy scoops of ice cream.
"Konsi konsi khaoge?" Arav asked, looking around at everyone.
Siya scanned the menu eagerly, searching for her favorite flavor, but her excitement faltered when she realized it wasn't available.
"They don't have my favorite flavor," Siya sighed, disappointment evident in her voice.
Reyansh, ever the problem-solver, suggested, "Maybe they have it at the parlour a few steps back. We can check there."
Arav, who had been observing the scene with a mischievous glint in his eye, seized the opportunity to play matchmaker. With a sly smirk, he nudged Shashwat and suggested, "Shashwat, why don't you go with Siya to the other parlour? Maybe they have her favorite flavor there."
"Haan chalo." Shashwat said, suppressing his grin.
As they walked back with their ice cream, they intentionally slowed their pace, savoring the moment of togetherness. The evening breeze gently tousled their hair as they strolled side by side, the warm glow of streetlights casting a soft, romantic ambiance.
"So, tomorrow I'll be heading to Pune... and then we won't see each other for a week. Will you miss me?" Shashwat asked, his voice filled with a playful hint of anticipation.
Siya felt her cheeks flush at the question, her heart fluttering with a mix of emotions. "Pata nahi," she replied, shrugging her shoulders nonchalantly, though her eyes betrayed her true feelings.
[I don't know.]
"Pata nahi matlab kya?" Shashwat pressed, a hint of teasing in his tone.
[What do you mean?]
"Pata nahi matlab pata nahi," Siya reiterated, a playful glint in her eyes as she continued walking. Just then, Shashwat gently intertwined his index finger with hers, catching her off guard as he pulled her towards him.
"Miss nahi karoge?" he asked softly, his gaze searching hers with sincerity.
[Won't you miss me?]
"Ek... ek hafte ki hi to baat hai," Siya responded, her heart racing as she struggled to maintain her composure, her fingers clutching her dress nervously. Shashwat moved closer, their proximity sending a surge of electricity through her veins.
[It's just been... just a week.]
"Pakka?" he whispered, his breath warm against her skin as he leaned in, their foreheads almost touching. Siya could feel her cheeks burning as she nodded, her gaze locked with his.
Shashwat gently touched his forehead to hers, causing her to close her eyes tightly, her heart pounding in her chest. She felt a rush of warmth and affection enveloping her as he whispered, "But I will miss you, Mishti."
As Shashwat stepped back and started walking, Siya stood there for a few moments, her heart still racing, her cheeks flushed with color.
She opened her eyes and watched him walk away, a soft smile playing on her lips.
With a blush adorning her face, she followed him, feeling a newfound sense of warmth and connection between them.
They joined everyone settled with them enjoying ice cream.
"Yaar, aa to gaye hain, bas bhagwan se manao ghar jane se pehle hi koi uth na jaye," Siya whispered to her friends, her voice tinged with nervousness.
[Well, we're here now, let's just pray to God that no one wakes up before we get home.]
"Manhoos jaise baat karna shuru kar di tum," Arushi said, nudging Siya .
[You've started talking as if you're jinxed.]
"Arre, don't worry, kuch nahi hoga," Akash reassured her, flashing a confident smile.
Siya stole a glance at Shashwat, who was engrossed in conversation with his friends, a warm smile lighting up his face. Feeling a sudden surge of affection, she pulled out her phone and quickly composed a message.
"I will also miss you," Siya typed, her fingers dancing across the screen as she sent the text.
Shashwat's phone buzzed in his pocket, and his smile widened as he read the message. His cheeks flushed with a mixture of surprise and delight, his heart skipping a beat at Siya's unexpected gesture.
"Accha ji?" he typed back, a playful tone evident in his response.
"Haan ji," Siya replied, a hint of bashfulness .
"This dress suits you" He typed and the message read, causing a blush to spread across her cheeks.
"Thank you??," she replied,
But her moment of bliss was short-lived as she realised her mistake.
"Ohhh shit," she muttered under her breath and quickly deleted the message, hoping Shashwat hadn't seen it.
But her hopes were dashed when another message popped up on her screen.
"Maine padh liya " Shashwat messaged, his playful tone evident even in text.
[I read that already.]
Feeling flustered, Siya quickly tried to come up with an excuse.
"Sorry, actually ye vali bhejni thi, galti se wo chali gayi," she replied, her fingers moving frantically over the keyboard.
[Sorry, actually I meant to send a heart emoji, but it got sent by mistake.]
Shashwat's smile only widened at her response.
"So, usme delete karne vali kya baat thi?" he innocently asked, clearly enjoying her state.
[So, what was there to delete in that?]
Siya bit her lip nervously, trying to think of a plausible explanation.
"Arre, wo uss emoji ka dusra matlab hota hai," she replied, hoping he would buy her excuse.
[Oh, that emoji has another meaning.]
"Acha, aisa kya? Kya matlab hota hai?" Shashwat asked, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
[Oh, really? What does it mean?]
Siya felt her cheeks burn with embarrassment as she tried to come up with a response. She glanced at his playful smile and couldn't help but feel a surge of affection towards him.
"Jada na bhole ban ne ki jaroorat nahi hai ??," she messaged, trying to play it cool despite her racing heart.
[There's no need to act too innocent. ??]
"Arre mai hun bhola usme ban ne ki kya baat, and maine kya kiya," Shashwat replied innocently, clearly enjoying their playful exchange.
[Oh, I'm the innocent one, what's wrong with that, and what did I do?]
"Kuch nahi ??," Siya messaged back, her lips curling into a smile despite her best efforts to maintain her composure.
A chuckle escaped from Shashwat's mouth, and Siya couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth at the sound.
"Kya hua, konsa joke padh liya tune?" Akash asked, noticing the exchange and nudging Shashwat playfully.
Siya quickly kept her phone aside, feeling a mix of embarrassment and happiness at their conversation. The arrival of the waiter with their ice creams provided a welcome distraction, and the group eagerly dug into their treats, their laughter and chatter filling the air once again.
"Yaar, ye to ice cream khane me hi late kar diya, usne hame direct ghar jana chahiye," Reyansh suggested. Everyone nodded in agreement, eager to head back home. They settled back into the car, assuming their previous seating arrangements.
[Mate, this has delayed our ice cream outing; we should have gone straight home.]
"Koi music to laga do," Darsh suggested, breaking the silence that had fallen over the group.
"Koi music to laga do," Divya mocked him, rolling her eyes playfully.
"Ek jhapad dunga, sari ice cream bahar aa jayegi," Darsh threatened jokingly.
"Mai dungi, ice cream ke sath tumhari intestine bhi bahar aa jayenge," Divya shot back, her tone equally playful.
"Tum log chup karoge, let's enjoy the drive," Shashwat interjected, his irritation evident in his tone.
As the car journeyed down the quiet street, a sudden figure emerged in the headlights-a cow standing directly in their path.
Reacting quickly, Arav swerved to avoid hitting the animal, but the abrupt manoeuvre caused him to lose control of the vehicle.
The car skidded off the road, careening towards a nearby tree.
"Mummy mereko kal Pani Puri khana tha trip pe jabse gye itne din se nhi khaya bina uske hamari aatma ko shanti nhi milegi" Siya screamed,
[Mummy, I wanted to eat Pani Puri tomorrow on the trip. I haven't had it for so many days; my soul won't find peace without it.]
"Abhi to mujhe Swami ke sath shadi bhi karni hai Bhagwan." Ritika said, on the verge of crying.
[Now I have to marry Swami too, God.]
"Mera bakri ko doodh pilane wala totka." Akash said, panicking.
The group braced themselves for impact as the car collided with the tree with a sickening thud. The sudden jolt threw everyone forward, and for a moment, the world seemed to spin.
Reyansh's voice quivered with concern as he surveyed the scene before him. Everyone slowly opened their eyes, groaning and trying to make sense of what had just happened.
"Nark me aa gaye kya?" Siya asked, looking around.
[Are we in hell?]
"Hey Yamraj ji, aage se ham aise shaitani nahi karenge, hame vapas bhej do," Arushi chimed in.
[Hey Lord Yama, we won't misbehave like this anymore, please send us back.]
"Yamraj ji, hain kahan?? Jahan bhi hon, please hame vapas zinda kar dijiye," Akash pleaded , his eyes wide.
[Wherever you are, Lord Yama, please bring us back to life.]
"Abhi to meri shadi bhi nahi hui..mere swami!!" Ritika wailed, adding her own touch of melodrama to the situation.
[My marriage hasn't even happened yet... my husband.]
"Hame Pani Puri khana tha," Siya lamented, her stomach apparently unaffected by the chaos around her.
[I want to eat pani puri.]
"Yamraj ji please mujhe garam tel me fry mat karna, maine to bas Divya ki copy homework likhne ke liye churai thi!" Darsh said, closing his eyes.
"Shut up, you guys, we are safe," Arav interjected, his tone firm yet relieved.
Despite the shock and the rough impact, the group miraculously emerged from the crash relatively unscathed .
"Thank goodness we're all okay," Ritika exclaimed, relief evident in her voice as she took stock of the situation.
Arav, visibly shaken by the accident, apologised profusely to the group. "I'm so sorry, guys. I didn't see the cow until it was too late," he said, his voice filled with remorse.
"It's okay, Arav bhaiya. The important thing is that we're all safe," Reyansh reassured him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"What should we do now?" Ritika asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty as she surveyed the scene.
Shashwat moved to join the group, his mind racing with possible solutions.
"Aisi halat me ghar jayenge, car lekar. Sab samajh jayenge, hamari karamaat hai," Arav suggested optimistically.
[We'll go home in this condition, by car. Everyone will understand, it's our miracle.]
"How will we tell Dad what all happened?" Darsh questioned, his tone laced with worry as he considered the repercussions of their situation.
Shashwat returned to the group, his expression grave as he addressed them. "Maine papa ko call kar diya," he announced, causing everyone's eyes to widen in shock.
[I have called papa.]
Confusion and panic filled the air as they processed Shashwat's unexpected action. "Aap... aapne uncle ko call kiya, matlab wo papa ko call kar denge, phir papa ham sabka kya karenge," Siya exclaimed, her voice trembling with fear and concern.
[You... you called uncle, which means he'll call Dad, then what will Dad do to all of us?]
"Shashwat Bhai, tu pagal hai kya? Kyun call kiya, tujhe hamare papa ka pata hai na, hamare kya. Apne papa ko hi dekh le, kitne strict hain," Reyansh interjected, his panic palpable.
[Shashwat Bhai, are you crazy? Why did you call? You know our dad, how strict he is. Just look at your dad, he's so strict.]
"Arre, meri baat to suno dono bhai behan. Papa ne call uthai nahi thi," Shashwat clarified, a sense of relief washing over the group as they realised the situation wasn't as dire as they had feared.
[But papa didn't picked up the call.]
"Thank God, par tum apni taraf se musibat bula hi chuke the," Akash remarked with a mocking smile.
Just then Shashwat's phone rang.
"Papa!!" Shashwat said, looking at the caller ID.
Everyone gasped in shock, eyes widening in unison.
"Tu phone idhar de, Satyawadi Harishchandra ka avtar," Arav said, snatching the phone from Shashwat's hand and quickly answering the call.
[Give me the phone, satyavadi Harishchandra's reincarnation.]
"What happened, Shashwat? Why did you call me at this time?" Naman's voice came through the phone, filled with concern and a hint of irritation.
"A... Bade papa, wo Shashwat padhai kar raha tha, isliye uss se galti se lag gayi," Arav lied, his voice steady despite the tension.
[A... Uncle, Shashwat was studying, that's why he accidentally called.]
"Okk, aur tum kyun jaag rahe? And what are you doing in his room? Ohh I know you guys are watching a movie right? Go and sleep now." Naman scolded, then abruptly ended the call.
"Shashwat, aaj marva daalta ham sabko," Reyansh said, exhaling a breath he didn't realise he was holding.
"Sorry, guys," Shashwat said, looking down, his voice filled with genuine remorse.
"Hame ghar jana hai," Siya cried, her fear and anxiety finally overwhelming her.
[I want to go home.]
Just then, two policemen approached the group.
"What happened? What are you kids doing here so late at night... And there are girls with you too." one policeman asked, his tone suspicious.
"Aye, what is happening here" the other policeman asked, making everyone more scared.
"Sir, they are our sisters. Please don't misunderstand us," Arav quickly explained.
"Mai nhi hun," Ritika blurted out from behind.
"Shut up, Ritika." Arav said, irritated.
"Aye, saaf saaf batao what is happening?" the first policeman demanded.
"Sir, I think they all came from a party aur shayad drink ki hai, tabhi car ka accident ho gaya hai. We should take them to jail," the second policeman suggested.
"Sir, please believe us. Aap hamare kapde dekhiye, from which angle do they look like party dresses?
And we are not just friends; we are family members.
These three girls are (pointing to Reyansh) his sisters, and she is our sister.
We are also relatives. We just came for eating ice cream.
And about the car, it was just an accident.
A cow came in front of us, and because of that, Arav bhaiya lost control," Shashwat explained everything to the policemen.
"If you don't believe us, you can see this photograph," Akash said, opening a photo of a wedding on his phone.
"Hmm, ok, but still, tum sab bache ho. Hame tumhare mummy papa ya ghar pe kisi bade ka number chahiye taaki ham unhe iss accident ke bare me inform kar saken," the policeman insisted, and everyone gulped.
[You're all kids. We need a number for your parents or someone elder at home so we can inform them about this accident.]
"Sir, actually, we were just going to inform them," Reyansh said.
"No, I will talk to them. It's an accident. I will talk to them," the policeman said.
"Arre yaar, papa will kill us" Divya said, starting to cry.
"Mai to aa bhi nhi raha tha, aap log ne le aaye mujhe. Mai bol dunga," Darsh said, frustrated.
[I wasn't even coming, you guys brought me here. I'll tell them.]
"Acha keh nhi raha tha, mai bhi chalunga, zidd ki thi tune," Shashwat said, hitting him on the head.
"Number?" the policeman asked again.
Arav reluctantly went to the policeman and dialled the number.
"Hello, your children were out at night and had an accident. Please come here, otherwise we'll have to keep them at the police station for the night. Let me share the location with you." He cut the call and shared the location.
"Mummy, man kar rha suicide kar lun. Maar to papa vaise bhi dalenge," Siya said, distraught.
[I want to die, papa will kill us anyways.]
"Mish... Siya, relax," Shashwat said in a low voice, trying to calm her standing beside her.
"Kya relax? Sab aapki galti hai. Yeh plan banane ki kya jaroorat thi?" Siya said in a low voice, tears streaming down her face.
[It's your fault, what was the need to make this plan?]
"What?" Shashwat asked, confused.
"Haan, aapne hi kaha tha na. Akash bhaiya ne khud bataya hame ki aapne kaha hai," Siya said, crying.
[Yes, you gave this idea to everyone. Akash bhaiya has told me.]
Akash who was standing at other side of Siya gulped as Shashwat threw a deadly glare at him.
"Saale jhoothe," Shashwat said, advancing towards Akash.
"Hehe, sorry yaar. Wo maan nahi rahi thi," Akash said, gulping nervously.
"Teri to... yaha ye police na hoti na, to tera kya haal karta mai aaj," Shashwat said, hitting Akash on the head.
[If this police was not here, what would I have done to you today]
The tension hung in the air as they waited for the inevitable arrival of their parents.
Just then, a car arrived at the scene. Prashant stepped out and approached the policemen, glaring at his brothers. Everyone's faces lit up seeing him.
"Prashant bhaiya!" Shashwat said happily.
"Jiju yaha kaise?" Siya said, confused.
"I am really sorry, sir. I'll make sure it won't happen again," Prashant said.
After a brief conversation with the policemen, he came over to the group. The policemen, satisfied, left the scene.
"Dimag kharab hai tum log ka..itni raat me jada hi night out ka shauk chadha hai..wo to acha hua Ishika masi ne mujhe call kar diya tha. Maan lo yahi call mausaji utha lete to kya hota tum sab ka?" Prashant scolded them, sternly.
[You guys are crazy.. you are so keen on a night out at such a late hour.. it was good that Ishika aunty called me. Suppose uncle had picked up this call then what would have happened to all of you?]
"Isliye maine mummy ka number diya tha bas ek risk tha ki kahin papa phone na utha len," Arav explained.
[That's why I gave mummy's number.]
"Arav, Shashwat, Reyansh, Akash, Ritika...tum sab bade ho gaye ho. Tum log ye bachpana kaise kar sakte ho? Itne raat ko jada night out soojh raha tha? Maan lo accident serious hota ya car jada damage ho jati to?" Prashant scolded the elder one's.
[Arav, Shashwat, Reyansh, Akash, Ritika...you all have grown up. How can you guys do this childhood? Were you sleeping so late at night? Suppose the accident was serious or the car would have suffered major damage?"]
"Sorry bhaiya, wo mai safely drive kar raha tha. Wo to samne se gaay aa gayi," Arav said, his head hung down.
"Chalo, car mein baitho sab. Maine mechanic ko bulaya hai, wo aa raha hoga," Prashant said, calming himself.
[Come on, everyone get in the car. I have called the mechanic, he must be coming.]
Just then, the mechanic arrived. He checked the car and replaced the headlight.
"Arav tum Shashwat Arushi Darsh ko ghar le jao mai Akash Richa ko unke ghar aur Reyansh Siya Divya aur Ritika ko chhorte hue apne ghar chala jaunga?." Prashant said and he nodded.
[Aarav you take Shashwat Arushi Darsh home, I will drop Akash Richa at her home and Reyansh Siya, Divya and Ritika to my home?]
"Par Jiju Richa Arushi mere Ghar ruki hain agar gyi aur subah uncle aunty ne dekh liya wo kya sochenge ki raat ko vapas aayi ye log." Siya said, biting her nails.
[But Richa Arushi is staying at my house, if she goes and uncle and aunty see her in the morning what will they think that these people came back at night]
"Ohh ok Arav, Shashwat Darsh ko lekar jao mai inhe Siya ke ghar chhor ke Akash ko uske Ghar pahocha ke apne Ghar chala jaunga." Prashant instructed, and Arav nodded.
[Ohh ok Arav, take Shashwat Darsh along, I will drop her at Siya's home, drop Akash at his home and then go to my home]
"Sab sun lo, yeh tumhara aakhri warning hai. Agli baar agar aisa kuch hua to sabke mummy-papa ko pata chal jayega," Prashant warned, ensuring his message was clear.
[Everyone listen, this is your last warning. Next time if something like this happens, everyone's parents will get to know.]
"Sorry bhaiya,Jiju" They chorused.
"Ab chalo, ghar chalte hain." Prashant said, herding them into his car.
Arav guided the girls into the car and drove off, leaving Prashant to handle the rest of the group.
As they drove back, the group sat in silence, contemplating the narrow escape they had just experienced. Prashant's scolding had made them realise the gravity of the situation.
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