As usual day Ani was ready for her school. Sana was also there, waiting for Ani.)

Sana: Ani! Can you believe it? Today is our first day of Class 9!

Ani: Hmm. Yes. Another year, more studies.

Sana: You’re so serious as always! I heard many new students are joining our class today.

Ani: New students or old ones… it doesn’t matter to me.

Sana: Arre listen! People are saying a new boy is coming too.

Ani: So?

Sana: They say he is very intelligent, like topper-level intelligent!

Ani: (adjusts her bag) Intelligence is only useful if you work hard.

Sana: You don’t even care, do you?

Ani: I care about my career, Sana. Nothing else.

Sana: (laughs) One day, Ani, something will distract you too.

Ani: That day will never come.

(Sana and ani was going to school)

Sana: (talking happily) Ani, I’m telling you, Class 9 is going to be fun!

Ani: Fun doesn’t give marks, Sana. Walk faster.

(Suddenly, Jack comes from behind and taps Sana’s shoulder)

Jack: Oii Sanaaa! Walking so seriously on the first day?

Sana: (shocked) Jack! Are you mad? You scared me!

Jack: That was the plan 😄

(Mit stands behind, quietly watching Ani)

Sana: Why are you people always behind us?

Jack: Because destiny wants us here. Right, Mit?

Mit: (smirks, eyes on Ani) Maybe.

Sana: (teasing) See Ani, someone is staring again.

Ani: (coldly) I don’t care who looks at me.

Jack: Wow… ice-cold as always.

Sana: (laughs) Ignore her, Jack. She only loves her books.

Ani: And I’m proud of that.

(They continue walking toward school.)

(In the class. A new student came and sit with ani and sana.)

Sana: Hi! You’re the new student, right?

Siya: (softly) Yes… my name is Siya.

Ani: Welcome to our class. You can sit here.

Siya: Thank you.

Sana: Don’t be shy! Where did you come from?

Siya: From another city… my father got transferred.

Riya: Ohh, interesting. Are you good in studies?

Siya: (nervous smile) I try my best.

Navya: You look very quiet. You don’t talk much, do you?

Siya: Not really… I’m more comfortable listening.

Sana: That’s okay! She’s serious like Ani.

Ani: (looks at Siya) Hardworking people don’t need to talk much.

Siya: (small smile) I think so too.

(Riya and Navya exchange looks)

Sana: Don’t worry, Siya. You’ll like our class.

Siya: I hope so.

Teacher:

“Class, we have a new student joining us today. His name is Yash. He is very talented and intelligent. Please welcome him.”

Yash (smiling, adjusting his spectacles):

“Hello everyone. I’m Yash. I hope we’ll get along well.”

(Students start whispering.)

Sana (leaning toward Ani, excited):

“Did you hear that, Ani? New student… and talented! He looks smart too.”

Ani (without looking up from her book):

“Hmm.”

Sana (teasing):

“That’s it? No reaction? He’s new, Ani. Don’t you want to look?”

Ani (coldly):

“I don’t care. I’m here to study, not to watch people.”

(Mit looks at Yash for a moment, then glances at Ani.)

Mit (whispering to Jack, half-smiling):

“Seems like the new guy already got everyone’s attention… except her.”

(Sana notices Mit looking at Ani and smirks.)

Sana (to herself, amused):

“This class is going to be interesting.”

(Ani keeps reading, pretending nothing matters, but the atmosphere changes.)

The class is silent. Ani and Siya are focused on books. Sana is trying to study. Mit, Jack, and Yash sit behind.)

Jack (whispering):

Brooo… why is this class so quiet? I feel like I’m in a library.

Mit (smirking):

Because some people actually study here.

Jack:

Yeah yeah, especially Ani madam. She studies like her life depends on it.

(Yash looks toward Ani for a second, then quickly looks down.)

Yash (softly):

She’s very focused…

Mit (noticing):

You’re watching her already, new boy?

Yash (nervous):

No— I mean… I was just looking around.

Jack (laughing quietly):

Ohooo! First day and already interested?

Mit (cold tone):

Focus on your books, Yash.

Yash:

I am focusing.

Jack:

Mit bhai, why are you acting so serious? Are you jealous or something?

Mit (sharp look):

Jealous? Don’t talk nonsense.

(Yash stays quiet, feeling awkward.)

Jack (grinning):

This year is going to be full entertainment.

(Ani turns a page loudly, showing she heard everything but doesn’t care.)

Mit (low voice):

Just study. Don’t create drama in front of her.

Jack:

Too late, bro. Drama already started.

(The bell rings. Everyone gets excited and starts walking toward the playground.)

Sports Teacher:

Alright students! Line up properly. No pushing!

Jack (grinning):

Sir, it’s sports period… obviously people will run like free birds.

Sports Teacher:

Jack, don’t test my patience on the first day.

Sana (laughing):

Sir, Jack can’t stay quiet even for one minute.

Ani (smiling slightly):

That’s why he’s Jack… our class comedian.

Jack (dramatic):

See! Even Ani agrees with me!

Mit (smirking):

Miracle. Ani is actually talking.

Ani (playfully):

Oh shut up, Mit. Don’t act like you’re silent.

(Siya laughs softly, feeling comfortable.)

Siya:

You all are… really funny.

Sana:

Welcome to the madness, Siya!

Sports Teacher:

Okay, okay! Enough comedy. Today we’ll play basketball and some fun games.

Yash:

Sir, can I join basketball too?

Sports Teacher:

Of course, Yash. Show us your talent.

Ani (to Sana, teasing):

New student already trying to impress.

Sana (giggles):

Maybe someone will get impressed.

(Ani rolls her eyes but smiles.)

Sports Teacher (clapping):

Alright! Everyone to the ground. Let’s play!

All Students:

Yes sir!

(Students run happily toward the playground, laughing and excited.)

(Ani and siya was gone to ride on marry go with a girl name joti who is faty girl)

Ani, Siya, and Joti stand near the merry-go-round.)

Joti (excited):

Come on! Let’s ride! It looks so fun!

Siya (smiling softly):

Yes… I’ve never tried it before.

Ani (laughing):

Then today is your first time, Siya.

(They sit. The merry-go-round is not moving much.)

Joti (calling out):

Yash! Hey, Yash! Can you help us push it?

(Yash walks over, adjusting his spectacles.)

Yash:

Uh… you want me to push this?

Joti:

Yes! Please! It’s not moving.

Yash (teasing awkwardly):

This thing needs a motor, not a student.

Joti:

Arre! Just push, na!

(Ani laughs at Yash’s silly comment.)

Ani (laughing):

You’re so dramatic, Yash.

(Yash freezes for a second. He looks at Ani’s smile.)

Yash (softly):

…You laugh nicely.

Ani (stops for a moment):

What?

Siya (confused):

Huh?

Joti:

Oho! Push first, Romeo!

(Yash snaps back and starts pushing. The merry-go-round begins to spin.)

Joti (happy):

Yesss! Faster!

Ani (laughing freely):

Okay okay, slow down!

(Yash keeps pushing, but his eyes keep going back to Ani.)

Yash (thinking, quietly):

Why… do I feel different when she smiles?

(For the first time, Yash realizes he likes Ani.)

(The whistle blows. Sports period is over. Students are tired but happy. Boys gather near the ground.)

Jack (stretching):

Ahhh finally! My legs are gone. Hostel food better give me energy today.

Sam (quietly):

Hostel food never gives energy… only punishment.

Yash (smiling slightly):

At least we’ll have fun tonight. No homework stress for some time.

Mit (smirking):

Fun? You mean Jack shouting in the hostel corridor again?

Jack:

Bro, that’s called entertainment.

(Yash adjusts his spectacles and looks thoughtful.)

Yash:

Hostel life is different… but sometimes I miss home.

Sam:

You miss home or… something else?

(Mit looks at Yash sharply.)

Mit:

Don’t start, Sam.

(Meanwhile, Ani and Sana are walking nearby and overhear them.)

Sana (whispering):

Look at them, hostel boys acting like they run the school.

Ani (laughing softly):

They can’t even run properly in basketball.

Sana:

True! But hostel life must be fun… no parents, only friends.

Ani:

Or only drama.

(Jack notices them and calls out.)

Jack:

Oii Ani! Sana! You should join hostel too, then you’ll understand real life!

Sana (laughing):

No thanks, Jack. I like my peaceful home.

Ani (teasing):

And I like clean food.

Jack (fake offended):

Wow! Direct attack!

(Mit smiles a little, looking at Ani.)

Mit:

Don’t worry, Jack. She always attacks.

Ani (smirks):

Only when it’s necessary.

(The bell rings again.)

Yash (softly):

Come on… let’s go back.

(They all start walking toward the school building, the hostel boys together, Ani and Sana ahead.)

(The final bell rings. Students leave. Mit, Jack, Yash, and Sam walk toward the hostel building with their bags.)

Jack (happily):

Ahhh! Freedom! School is finally over.

Mit (dryly):

It’s not freedom. It’s hostel study time now.

Jack:

Bro, don’t ruin my mood. At least in hostel, no teachers are shouting.

Sam (quiet voice):

Only wardens.

Jack (dramatic):

Exactly! Wardens are worse than teachers!

(Yash walks silently, adjusting his spectacles, lost in thoughts.)

Mit (noticing):

What happened to you, Yash? You’ve been quiet since sports period.

Yash:

Nothing.

Sam (calm, mysterious):

Liar.

Jack (grinning):

Ohoooo! Someone is hiding something.

Mit (sharp):

Stop it. Talk clearly.

(Yash hesitates.)

Yash (softly):

It’s just… today felt different.

Jack:

Different? Because Ani laughed?

(Yash suddenly looks away.)

Yash:

Don’t say her name like that.

Sam (low voice):

So it is about her.

(Mit’s expression changes slightly.)

Mit:

Focus on hostel life, Yash. Feelings only create problems.

Jack:

Bro, hostel life is already full of problems. At least feelings make it interesting.

Mit (cold):

Not for me.

(They reach the hostel gate.)

Jack:

Come on, boys! First thing—snacks. Second—gossip.

Sam:

Third—regret.

Yash (small smile):

Maybe… just maybe… this year won’t be boring.

(Mit stays silent, but his eyes show something else.)

Night in the school hostel. The room is quiet except for the sound of ceiling fan. Mit is sitting on his bed, reading. Jack is eating snacks. Sam is near the window, silent. Yash is lying down, staring at the ceiling.)

Jack (chewing loudly):

Hostel rule number one: Never sleep without snacks.

Mit (annoyed):

Hostel rule number two: Jack, please shut up.

Jack:

Wow, rude.

(Sam gives a small smirk but says nothing.)

Jack (looking at Yash):

Oii Yash… you’ve been acting like a broken hero since afternoon.

Yash (quiet):

I’m fine.

Sam (low voice):

No, you’re not.

(Mit looks up from his book.)

Mit:

Just say it. What’s going on?

(Yash sits up slowly, adjusting his spectacles.)

Yash:

It’s nothing serious… I just…

Jack (excited):

He just what? Come on!

(Yash hesitates, then speaks softly.)

Yash:

Ani…

(Mit’s expression changes immediately.)

Mit:

What about Ani?

Yash (confused):

Today when she laughed… I don’t know why, but it felt different.

(Jack gasps dramatically.)

Jack:

OHHHH! Love at first laugh!

Sam (calm):

I knew it.

Yash:

It’s not love… it’s just… she’s not like others.

Jack:

Bro, that is literally love.

(Mit closes his book slowly.)

Mit (cold tone):

Don’t get distracted, Yash. This school year is important.

Yash (looks at Mit):

Why do you care so much?

(Silence.)

Sam (quietly):

Because Mit cares too.

Mit (sharp):

Sam.

(Jack looks between them, realizing tension.)

Jack (awkward laugh):

Okay okay… hostel room is becoming a movie.

Yash (soft but firm):

I’m not trying to compete with anyone. I just… can’t stop thinking.

(Mit looks away, jaw tight.)

Mit (low voice):

Just be careful. Feelings create problems.

Jack (trying to lighten mood):

And problems create entertainment!

Sam:

Or disasters.

(Yash lies back down, staring at the ceiling again.)

Yash (whispering):

Why did her smile feel so important?

(Mit stays silent, but his eyes show something he won’t say.)

(The hostel room is dim. Mit is reading on his bed. Sam is near the window. Jack is eating chips. Yash lies down but looks restless.)

Yash (whispering to Jack):

Jack… can I ask you something?

Jack (grinning):

Oho, secret talk at night? This is interesting. Say.

Yash (hesitant):

Ani… and Mit…

(Jack’s eyes widen immediately.)

Jack (low voice):

Ani and Mit? Bro, you’re brave.

Yash:

Just listen. Are they… close?

Jack (smirking):

Close? Hmm. Mit stares at her like she’s the answer sheet of the final exam.

Yash (frowning):

So he likes her?

Jack (teasing):

Maybe. Or maybe he’s just… Mit.

Yash (quietly):

Ani doesn’t even notice him much.

Jack:

Ani notices no one. She lives in her own world.

(Yash looks down, thinking.)

Yash (softly):

Today when she laughed… I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

Jack (whispering excitedly):

Broooo… you like her.

Yash (quickly):

No! I’m just curious.

Jack:

Curious? Yeah right.

(Jack leans closer.)

Jack (serious for once):

But listen, Yash… Mit doesn’t show it, but he cares.

Yash:

Then why is he acting so cold?

Jack:

That’s his style. He hides everything.

(Yash glances at Mit, who is still reading silently.)

Yash (murmuring):

I don’t want to fight anyone… but…

Jack (soft laugh):

But you don’t want to lose either.

(Yash stays silent.)

Jack (patting his shoulder):

Welcome to Class 9, my friend. Hostel life comes with drama for free.

(Yash gives a small, nervous smile.)

The hostel room becomes silent. One by one, everyone falls asleep.)

Jack is sleeping with his blanket half on the floor.

Sam lies quietly, facing the window.

Mit has fallen asleep with his book still open beside him.

(Only the soft sound of the ceiling fan remains.)

(But Yash… is still awake.)

(He slowly sits up and walks to his desk. A small lamp glows. He takes out a diary from his bag.)

Yash (whispering to himself):

Why can’t I sleep…

(He opens the diary and begins writing.)

Yash’s Diary

"Day 1 of Class 9…"

"I thought this year would be normal."

"New school… new hostel… new people."

"But today… something changed."

"Her name is Ani."

"She laughed so freely, like she didn’t care about the world."

"And somehow… that laugh stayed in my mind."

(He pauses, tapping the pen.)

"I don’t even know her properly."

"Still, I feel like I noticed her more than I should."

"Jack said Mit cares about her too."

(Yash glances at Mit sleeping.)

"Mit is quiet, cold… but I can tell he feels something."

"I don’t want trouble."

"But I also can’t ignore what I feel."

(His handwriting becomes slower.)

"Is this what people call… the beginning?"

"Or am I just overthinking?"

(Yash closes the diary softly.)

Yash (whispering):

Good night… Ani.

(He turns off the lamp, lies down again… but his eyes remain open.)

(Outside, the hostel is silent… but inside Yash’s heart, something has awakened.)

Morning at Ani’s House

The sun shines through the curtains.

Ani is standing in front of the mirror, fixing her hair lazily.

Her school uniform is half-tucked.

Ani:

Ugh… Class 9 already feels like too much work.

Sana is already ready, standing near the door with her bag.

She looks at Ani and bursts out laughing.

Sana:

Ani! You look like you just woke up from a movie fight scene.

Ani (rolling eyes):

Excuse me, I look iconic.

Sana:

Iconic mess.

Ani throws a hairband at her.

Ani:

Stop laughing or I’ll actually be late because of you.

Sana (grinning):

First day of Class 9, and you’re still the same drama queen.

Ani laughs loudly.

She is totally relaxed, not serious at all.

The bus is crowded with students talking excitedly.

Ani and Sana sit together near the window.

Sana:

Ani, can you believe we’re seniors now?

Ani:

Seniors? We’re still babies.

Sana:

No, Class 9 means new teachers, new rules, and…

(leans closer)

New students.

Ani groans.

Ani:

Please don’t start your filmy gossip.

Sana:

What if a super intelligent boy joins our class?

Ani:

Then he can solve my maths homework. That’s it.

Sana:

That’s your only interest in boys?

Ani (laughing):

Yes! Maths slave.

Both laugh.

Ani looks outside, enjoying the morning.

She’s not thinking about anyone.

In the hostel room, the alarm rings loudly.

Jack jumps up dramatically.

Jack:

WAKE UP HOSTELERS! Another day of suffering!

Mit is already sitting, tying his shoelaces calmly.

Mit:

Jack, shut up. It’s morning.

Sam is near the window, silent as usual.

Yash looks tired, sitting on his bed.

Jack notices immediately.

Jack:

Oho… someone didn’t sleep.

Yash:

I slept.

Jack:

Your face says otherwise.

Mit glances at Yash.

Mit:

Are you sick?

Yash adjusts his spectacles quickly.

Yash:

No. Just… normal.

Sam speaks quietly.

Sam:

Normal people don’t look like that.

Jack smirks.

Jack:

Bro was writing poetry in his diary for Ani.

Yash (angry whisper):

Jack!

Mit freezes slightly.

His eyes sharpen.

Mit:

Ani?

Jack laughs.

Jack:

Relax, I’m joking. Or maybe not.

Mit stands up.

Mit (cold tone):

Get ready. We’ll be late.

Yash watches him.

Something feels tense.

The classroom is noisy.

Students are settling down.

Ani enters laughing with Sana.

Riya and Navya are sitting behind, whispering.

Riya:

Look at Ani… always acting like she owns the class.

Navya:

Boys will notice her, that’s why.

Ani hears nothing.

She’s too busy joking.

Sana:

Ani, what if our class teacher becomes strict?

Ani:

Then we’ll become invisible angels.

Sana:

You? Invisible?

Ani laughs loudly.

Siya sits quietly at the side, reading a book.

Ani notices her.

Ani:

Siya, you’re always studying. Don’t you get bored?

Siya smiles softly.

Siya:

Not really.

Sana:

She’s the future topper.

Ani shrugs.

Ani:

Good for her. I’m the future comedian.

The door opens.

Yash walks in with his bag.

Spectacles shining slightly.

His eyes immediately search…

And stop on Ani.

She is laughing loudly with Sana.

Not even looking at him.

Yash (thinking):

She doesn’t even notice anything… so free.

Mit enters behind him.

He notices Yash staring.

His face tightens.

Jack whispers.

Jack:

Bro, he’s gone.

Mit ignores him.

During break, Jack leans forward.

Jack:

Ani, Sana… tell me honestly.

Sana:

What?

Jack:

If Mit became a girl, would you two be friends with him?

Ani bursts out laughing.

Ani:

No, he’d be too serious.

Sana giggles.

Sana:

He’d scold everyone.

Jack points at Mit.

Jack:

See? Even girls agree you have no fun.

Mit looks annoyed.

Mit:

I don’t care.

Ani laughs again.

Yash watches silently.

He smiles a little.

Mit notices that smile.

His jaw clenches.

(The class is quiet. The teacher is teaching on the board. Students are listening. Yash is sitting straight with his spectacles, trying to focus.)

Teacher (strict voice):

Alright class… since we have a new student, let’s see how attentive he is.

(Everyone looks at Yash.)

Teacher:

Yash, stand up.

(Yash stands quickly.)

Yash:

Yes, sir.

Teacher:

Tell me… what is the definition of work in physics?

(Yash freezes. His mind goes blank. He opens his mouth but no words come out.)

Yash (nervous):

Work is… um… it is…

(The class starts whispering.)

Riya (low voice to Navya):

So-called intelligent boy?

Navya (giggle):

Hah.

(Yash’s hands tighten. Teacher waits.)

Teacher (cold):

Come on. Answer properly.

Yash (panicking):

Sir, I… I know it but…

(Ani, sitting ahead, turns slightly to look back. Sana notices.)

Sana (whisper):

Ani? What are you doing?

Ani ignores and quietly mouths the answer.

Ani (soft whisper):

Force into displacement…

(Yash’s eyes widen. He looks at Ani for a second.)

Ani (whispering again):

Say it… Work equals force times displacement.

(Yash takes a breath and speaks clearly.)

Yash (louder):

Sir, work is defined as the product of force and displacement in the direction of force.

(Teacher nods.)

Teacher:

Hmm. Correct.

(Class becomes silent.)

(Yash slowly sits down, still shocked.)

After a few minutes…

Teacher continues teaching.

Yash leans slightly forward and whispers.

Yash (quietly):

…Thank you.

Ani shrugs casually, like it’s nothing.

Ani (whispering back):

Don’t overthink. You were just nervous.

Yash:

Still… thanks.

Sana looks between them with a mischievous smile.

Sana (whisper to herself):

Oho… interesting.

(Mit from the side notices Ani turning back. His expression becomes serious.)

Mit (thinking):

Why did she help him…?

Mit and Jack walk out of the classroom with their bags. The corridor is full of students leaving. Sana and Ani are a few steps behind, watching them.)

Jack (yawning):

Finally… fresh air. My brain was suffocating in class.

Mit:

Your brain doesn’t work anyway.

Jack (gasps):

Wow. Direct attack.

(Suddenly, Yash appears from the other side of the corridor, adjusting his spectacles and holding his books neatly.)

Yash:

Mit. Jack.

(Jack smiles immediately.)

Jack:

Ohhh Mr. Intelligent has arrived!

Yash (dryly):

Don’t start.

(Mit becomes a little quiet, his expression stiff.)

Mit:

You’re coming hostel too?

Yash:

Obviously. I live there now.

Jack:

Welcome to the suffering club.

Yash:

It’s not suffering if you’re disciplined.

Jack:

Bro, hostel food itself breaks discipline.

(Yash ignores him and looks ahead, but his eyes briefly go towards Ani walking with Sana.)

(Ani is laughing at something Sana says, not paying attention.)

Sana (whispering to Ani):

Look look… Yash is here.

Ani (casual):

Hmm.

Sana:

He’s always so serious. Like a teacher.

Ani:

Maybe that’s his personality.

(Yash hears Sana’s voice slightly and looks away quickly.)

Jack (nudging Yash):

Oyyyy, why are you suddenly so silent?

Yash:

I’m not silent.

Jack (smirking):

You looked back.

Yash (annoyed):

I didn’t.

Mit (coldly):

Focus on hostel, Yash.

(Yash looks at Mit, confused.)

Yash:

What’s your problem?

Mit:

Nothing.

Jack

Ohhh tension! Drama alert!

(Sana walks closer, teasing.)

Sana:

What happened? Hostel boys fighting already?

Jack:

Mit is being Mit.

Sana:

And Yash is being Yash.

(Ani smiles a little.)

Ani:

So basically… normal day.

(For a second, Yash’s face softens when Ani speaks.)

Yash (quietly):

Yeah… normal.

(Mit notices that and tightens his grip on his bag strap.)

Mit:

Come on. We’ll get late.

(Mit walks ahead. Jack follows, still laughing. Yash stays behind for a moment, glancing at Ani once more.)

Jack (calling):

Yash! Hurry up!

(Yash adjusts his spectacles and quickly walks after them.)

Sana (whispering to Ani):

Did you see that?

Ani:

See what?

Sana (grinning):

Nothingggg… forget it.

(Ani shrugs, unaware, while Sana smiles mischievously.)

(Night in the school hostel. The room is dim. The fan is spinning slowly. Jack is lying on his bed with snacks. Mit is sitting with a book. Sam is near the window, quiet. Yash is at his desk, lost in thoughts.)

Jack (chewing):

Hostel nights are the best. No teachers, no homework pressure…

Mit (without looking up):

You have homework. You just ignore it.

Jack:

That’s called confidence.

(Sam lets out a small chuckle.)

Jack (shocked):

Sam laughed?! Guys, write the date down!

Sam (calm):

Don’t make it a big thing.

(Yash stays silent, staring at his notebook.)

Jack (noticing):

Oii Yash… you’ve been quiet since evening.

Yash:

I’m fine.

Jack:

No you’re not. You’re acting like you saw a ghost.

Sam (low voice):

Or like he saw Ani.

(Yash looks up sharply.)

Yash:

Stop.

(Mit closes his book slowly.)

Mit:

What happened today?

Yash (hesitating):

Nothing happened.

Jack (grinning):

Bro, Ani spoke one sentence and you became a poet.

Yash (annoyed):

She just helped me in class, that’s all.

Sam:

That’s never “all” for someone like you.

(Silence for a second.)

Mit (cold tone):

Focus on studies. Feelings don’t belong in hostel life.

Jack:

Mit, you talk like an uncle.

Mit:

Better than acting like a fool.

(Yash looks down, quieter.)

Yash:

I didn’t ask to feel anything.

(Jack’s smile fades a little.)

Jack (softly):

Yeah… it just happens.

(Sam looks out of the window.)

Sam:

Class 9 is going to be interesting.

(Mit stands up.)

Mit:

Sleep. Tomorrow is another day.

(Jack switches off the light.)

Jack (murmuring):

Tomorrow… more drama.

(Yash lies down, but his eyes stay open in the darkness.)

Yash (thinking):

Why does her voice stay in my mind?

(The hostel room is dark and silent.)

Jack is sleeping loudly.

Sam is lying still, eyes half-open.

Mit is asleep with his book beside him.

(Only Yash is awake.)

(He slowly gets up and walks to his desk. A small lamp glows. He opens his diary and begins writing.)

Yash’s Diary

Yash (writing):

"Day 2…"

"I thought I was strong."

"I thought I wouldn’t care about anyone."

(He pauses, staring at the page.)

"But today… something happened."

"I couldn’t answer a simple question."

"Everyone was watching."

"I felt stupid."

"And then… Ani helped me."

(His handwriting becomes slower.)

"She didn’t laugh."

"She didn’t judge."

"She just… helped."

"Like it was nothing."

(He smiles faintly.)

"But for me… it wasn’t nothing."

(He stops writing for a moment, listening to the silence.)

Yash (whispering to himself):

Why do I keep thinking about her?

(He continues writing.)

"Mit was watching."

"I don’t know why, but his eyes felt sharp."

"Does he care about her too?"

"I don’t want to fight."

"I don’t want drama."

"But my heart…"

(He presses the pen harder.)

"My heart is not listening."

(He closes the diary slowly.)

Yash (soft whisper):

Good night… Ani.

(He turns off the lamp and lies down again.)

(But his eyes remain open.)

Yash (thinking):

This year… is going to change everything.

The school corridor was full of noise.

Students were laughing, talking, rushing to class.

Ani and Sana were walking side by side.

Sana (laughing):

Can you believe it? Class 9 already feels different.

Ani:

It feels the same… just louder.

Siya walked quietly with them, holding her books tightly.

Sana:

Siya, you’re always so serious.

Siya (softly):

I’m just… not used to so many people.

Ani smiled.

Ani:

You’ll get used to us.

On the other side of the corridor, Riya and Navya were watching.

Riya (mocking):

Look at Ani… new friends already.

Navya:

And Sana never leaves her side.

Riya smirked.

Riya:

She thinks she’s special.

Navya leaned closer.

Navya:

Didn’t she help that new boy yesterday?

Riya rolled her eyes.

Riya:

Yash? Yeah… Miss Perfect.

Just then, footsteps echoed.

Mit, Jack, Yash, and Sam entered the corridor together.

Jack was talking loudly as always.

Jack:

Hostel life is torture. The food should be illegal.

Mit (coldly):

Stop complaining.

Yash adjusted his spectacles, quiet.

Sam stayed silent, watching everyone with mysterious eyes.

Jack suddenly noticed Sana.

Jack (grinning):

Good morning, Sana!

Sana:

Good morning, idiot.

Jack (dramatic):

Idiot? I’m hurt.

Ani laughed a little.

Yash’s eyes lifted… and stopped on Ani.

For a second, he forgot everything else.

Mit noticed.

His expression tightened.

Sana leaned toward Ani, whispering with a teasing smile.

Sana:

Someone is staring again.

Ani rolled her eyes.

Ani:

Stop imagining things.

Siya blinked.

Siya:

What’s happening?

Sana:

School drama.

Jack stepped closer.

Jack:

Ani, did you miss us hostelers?

Ani:

Not really.

Jack laughed.

Yash smiled quietly.

Sam suddenly spoke in a low voice.

Sam:

Corridors are loud… but feelings are louder.

Everyone looked at him.

Jack:

Bro, why do you talk like a movie villain?

Sam didn’t answer.

The bell rang sharply.

Students began rushing.

Sana:

Come on Ani! We’ll be late!

Ani turned to go.

Yash watched her walk away.

Mit watched Yash.

And Sam watched all of them.

Class 9 had just begun…

And already, something was changing.

The classroom is noisy. Ani and Sana sit together. Mit and Jack are behind them. The teacher enters.)

Teacher: Good morning, class.

All Students: Good morning, ma’am!

Teacher: Settle down, everyone. I have an important announcement.

(The class becomes quiet.)

Teacher: Due to timetable and seating adjustments, some students’ sections are being changed starting today.

Sana (whispering): Section change? Who?

Ani: Let’s listen.

Teacher: Yash, Sam, Asu, and Sejal…

(Yash looks up. Sam remains calm and unreadable.)

Teacher: …you all will be shifted to Section B from now onwards.

Asu: Section B?! Ma’am, why us?

Sejal: But all our friends are here!

Teacher: This is decided by the administration. You must cooperate.

Yash (quietly): Section B…

Sam (low voice): New place, new people.

Mit (whispering to Jack): So he’s leaving our section.

Jack: Hmm… interesting. The “topper guy” won’t be here anymore.

Sana (a little disappointed): Oh… Ani, he’s going to another section.

Ani (shrugging): Okay. Doesn’t matter.

Teacher: You four should report to your new classroom immediately after this period.

Yash: Yes, ma’am.

Teacher: Alright. Now open your books.

(The class continues, but the atmosphere feels different.)

(School corridor, just after the teacher’s announcement. Ani, Sana, and Siya are walking together.)

Sana (excited):

Oh my god… did you hear that properly?!

Ani:

Yes… Asu and Sejal are finally going to Section B.

Sana (clapping):

YESSS! Thank you, universe!

Siya (confused):

Are they… that bad?

Sana:

Bad? Siya, they are literally gossip machines.

Ani (calm smile):

At least our class will be more peaceful now.

Sana:

No more fake laughing, no more drama every second!

Siya (softly):

That sounds… nice.

(They all laugh a little.)

Then Sana suddenly stops smiling.

Sana (sighing):

But…

Ani:

What?

Sana:

Yash and Sam also got shifted.

Siya:

Oh… the new intelligent boy?

Sana:

Yeah. I kind of feel weird.

Ani (shrugging):

It’s fine. He’ll manage.

Sana (teasing):

Really? You don’t care at all?

Ani:

Why should I?

(Siya looks between them silently.)

(Inside Section A classroom. Students are sitting and waiting. The atmosphere is noisy.)

Jack (stretching):

Brooo, where is the English teacher?

Mit:

She’s late again.

Sana (looking at the clock):

It’s already been fifteen minutes!

Ani:

Maybe she won’t come.

Siya (quietly):

Is that possible?

Suddenly, the class monitor stands up.

Monitor:

Everyone listen! I just got a message from the office.

Students:

What? What happened?

Monitor:

English ma’am is absent today.

Class (together):

Ohhh!

Jack (dramatic):

Freedom!!

Mit (serious):

Not freedom. We still have a period.

The classroom door opens and another teacher enters.

Teacher:

Good morning, students.

All:

Good morning, ma’am.

Teacher:

Since your English teacher is absent, you will go to the library for silent reading.

Sana (whispering to Ani):

Library period… not bad.

Ani:

At least it’s peaceful.

Teacher:

Walk in a line. No talking loudly.

Jack (muttering):

No talking? That’s impossible for Sana.

Sana (glaring):

Excuse me?!

Jack (laughing):

Just kidding!

Siya smiles softly.

Siya:

I like libraries… they’re quiet.

Ani:

Same.

(The students start walking through the corridor toward the library.)

In the Library

(Bookshelves everywhere. The room so is calm.)

Sana (excited whisper):

Wow, this place smells like old stories.

Ani:

You’re so weird.

Sana:

I mean it in a good way!

Siya (looking around):

This is… comforting.

Jack grabs a random book.

Jack:

“Advanced Grammar”… nope. Too dangerous.

Mit picks a novel silently.

Mit:

Just read something useful.

Sana:

Ani, let’s sit near the window.

Ani:

Okay.

(They sit down. For a moment, everything feels calm…)

Sana (softly):

Days like this feel nice.

Ani:

Yeah… no drama. Just quiet.

Siya nods.

Siya:

Maybe Section A isn’t so bad.

(The library becomes their peaceful space…)

(The library is quiet. Soft sunlight comes through the windows. Students are reading silently.)

Ani was standing near the shelves, looking at the books.

She sighed.

Ani (muttering):

Why are all the good books either too boring… or too difficult?

Nearby, Mit was also scanning the shelves with a serious face.

Mit:

You don’t like any of them?

Ani glanced at him.

Ani:

Not really. Everything here is either grammar or history.

Mit smirked slightly.

Mit:

Maybe you just don’t know how to choose.

Ani rolled her eyes.

Ani:

Oh please, Mr. Perfect Reader.

Mit picked up a book and looked at the title.

Mit:

This one is good.

Ani leaned forward.

Ani:

That’s on the top shelf.

Mit looked up.

Mit:

You want it?

Ani nodded.

Ani:

Yes… but I can’t reach.

There was a small wooden library step-stair near the shelf.

Ani climbed carefully.

Mit watched silently.

Mit:

Be careful.

Ani:

I am careful.

Ani reached for the book, stretching on her toes.

Her fingers touched the cover.

Ani (smiling):

Got it—

Suddenly…

Her foot slipped slightly on the step.

Ani:

Ah—!

The book almost fell from her hands.

Before she could scream, Mit moved quickly.

He stepped forward and caught her—

one arm around her waist, the other supporting her shoulder.

Ani froze.

Mit froze too.

For a moment…

everything was silent.

Ani’s heartbeat was loud in her ears.

She was in Mit’s arms.

Mit’s eyes were locked on hers.

Mit (low voice):

I told you… be careful.

Ani blinked, still shocked.

Ani (softly):

I… I was careful.

Mit’s grip tightened for a second, making sure she wouldn’t fall.

Mit:

You’re not hurt, right?

Ani swallowed.

Ani:

No…

Their faces were close.

Too close.

Ani quickly stepped back, holding the book tightly.

Ani (nervous):

I’m fine. Thanks.

Mit looked away, clearing his throat.

Mit:

Next time… just ask.

Ani tried to act normal.

Ani:

I didn’t know you were so fast.

Mit gave a small smile.

Mit:

Only when it matters.

Ani’s cheeks warmed.

She turned quickly.

Ani:

I’m going to… read now.

Mit watched her walk away, silent.

The library was quiet again…

But something between them had changed.

(Ani walks back to her seat holding the book tightly. Her face is slightly red. Siya looks up.)

Siya:

Did you find a book?

Ani (quickly):

Yes. This one.

Siya nods, but before Ani can sit…

Sana appears out of nowhere like a detective.

Sana (grinning):

OHHHHH.

Ani freezes.

Ani:

What?

Sana leans closer, eyes sparkling.

Sana:

Nothinggg… just… I saw something interesting near the bookshelf.

Ani’s cheeks turn pink.

Ani:

You saw nothing.

Sana:

I saw EVERYTHING.

Ani glares.

Ani:

Sana!

Sana covers her mouth dramatically.

Sana:

Mit catching you like a movie hero…

“Ani, be careful…”

(She mimics Mit’s deep voice.)

Ani almost throws the book at her.

Ani:

Stop it right now!

Siya looks confused.

Siya:

What happened?

Sana whispers loudly:

Sana:

Romance happened.

Ani snaps:

Ani:

It was an accident!

Jack Joins the Teasing

Jack suddenly walks past with a book in hand.

Jack:

Accident? What accident?

Sana points excitedly.

Sana:

Mit saved Ani from falling!

Jack’s eyes widen like he just heard the biggest news.

Jack:

WHAT?!

He turns toward Mit, who is sitting quietly pretending to read.

Jack (loud whisper):

MIT?!

Mit doesn’t look up.

Mit:

Be quiet.

Jack smirks.

Jack:

So our Mit has become a romantic hero now?

Mit finally looks up sharply.

Mit:

I just stopped her from falling.

Jack puts a hand on his chest.

Jack:

Bro, you held her in your arms.

That is NOT “just stopping.”

Ani groans.

Ani:

Jack, please.

Sana starts giggling uncontrollably.

Sana:

Ani was literally like—

(She acts out falling dramatically.)

Sana:

“Aaaahhh!”

And Mit was like—

(She acts heroic.)

Sana (deep voice):

“I’ve got you.”

Ani hides her face.

Ani:

I hate you both.

Mit Finally Breaks

Mit closes his book.

Mit (serious but embarrassed):

Enough. It wasn’t a big deal.

Jack raises his eyebrows.

Jack:

Not a big deal?

Sana leans toward Ani.

Sana:

Ani, should I plan the wedding or what?

Ani (shouting softly):

SANA!!

Siya, still innocent, asks quietly:

Siya:

Are you two… friends?

Jack answers immediately.

Jack:

Not friends.

Sana smiles.

Sana:

Not enemies.

Ani throws her book open.

Ani:

I’m going to read. All of you shut up.

Mit looks away, hiding a small smile.

Jack whispers to Sana:

Jack:

Something definitely happened.

Sana whispers back:

Sana:

Oh, this is just the beginning.

Ani hears them and groans again.

(School is over. The hostel boys return to their room.)

Jack throws his bag on the bed dramatically.

Sam sits quietly near the window.

Yash adjusts his spectacles, calm as always.

Mit is unpacking silently, serious.

Jack suddenly bursts out laughing.

Jack:

BROOOO. Today was legendary.

Mit doesn’t look up.

Mit:

Don’t start.

Yash looks curious.

Yash:

What happened?

Jack gasps like he’s about to reveal the biggest secret.

Jack:

Mit… became a HERO today.

Sam’s eyes shift slightly.

Sam:

Hero?

Yash blinks.

Yash:

Hero for what?

Jack sits on Mit’s bed, grinning.

Jack:

Library scene, guys.

Mit’s jaw tightens.

Mit:

Jack, stop.

Jack ignores him.

Jack:

Ani was climbing up the stairs to get a book…

Yash’s expression changes slightly.

Yash:

Ani?

Jack nods excitedly.

Jack:

Yes, Ani.

Sam stays silent, listening.

Jack:

And then… her leg slipped—

Yash leans forward unconsciously.

Jack:

She was about to fall…

And guess who caught her?

Mit mutters:

Mit:

It was nothing.

Jack points dramatically.

Jack:

MIT. CAUGHT. HER.

Sam speaks softly.

Sam:

In his arms?

Jack snaps his fingers.

Jack:

EXACTLY.

Yash freezes for a second.

Yash:

…In his arms?

Jack laughs.

Jack:

Full movie style.

Ani in the air…

Mit holding her like—

(Jack acts it out.)

Jack (deep voice):

“I’ve got you.”

Mit throws a pillow at him.

Mit:

Shut up!

Jack catches it, still laughing.

Jack:

Bro, Sana saw it too!

She almost screamed, “ROMANCE!”

Sam tilts his head.

Sam:

Interesting.

Yash looks away, quiet.

Yash:

So… Ani was okay?

Mit answers quickly, serious.

Mit:

She wasn’t hurt.

Jack smirks.

Jack:

Of course Mit knows every detail.

Mit glares.

Mit:

Because I was there.

Jack leans closer, teasing.

Jack:

Or because you care?

Mit’s face hardens.

Mit:

Don’t make stories.

Sam finally speaks again, voice low.

Sam:

Stories make themselves.

Jack points at Sam.

Jack:

See? Even Sam agrees this is drama.

Yash stays silent, gripping his pen.

Jack notices.

Jack:

Yash, why so quiet?

Yash forces a small smile.

Yash:

Nothing. Just… unexpected.

Jack grins mischievously.

Jack:

Unexpected? Or painful?

Mit’s eyes sharpen.

Mit:

Jack.

Jack raises hands.

Jack:

Okay okay, I’m just saying…

Class 9 is getting interesting.

Sam murmurs:

Sam:

It has only begun.

Yash looks down, whispering to himself:

Yash:

Yeah… only begun.

Mit turns away, annoyed.

Jack laughs again.

Jack:

Hostel life + love life \= entertainment!

Mit throws another pillow.

Mit:

Go sleep, idiot.

Jack laughs loudly.

Jack:

Good night, hero Mit!

(Yash stays quiet… but his thoughts are louder than the room.)

(The hostel room is dark again.)

Jack is asleep, still smiling in his dreams.

Sam lies quietly, eyes half-open.

Mit has turned his back, pretending not to care.

But Yash…

Yash sits at his desk.

A small lamp glows.

He opens his diary slowly.

His hand hesitates…

Then he begins writing.

📖 Yash’s Diary

Yash (writing):

"Day 3…"

"Today I learned something."

"People can smile and laugh… while your heart feels heavy."

(He pauses.)

"Jack told me what happened in the library."

"Ani slipped…"

"And Mit caught her."

(His pen presses harder.)

"Why did that bother me?"

"It shouldn’t."

"Mit is her classmate."

"He was just helping."

"So why…"

(He stops.)

"Why do I keep imagining it?"

(He leans back, staring at the ceiling.)

Yash (whispering):

It was nothing… right?

(He writes again.)

"Ani helped me yesterday."

"She didn’t even look at me like I was special."

"She was just… kind."

"And that kindness is dangerous."

(His eyes soften.)

"Because I’m starting to care."

(A silence fills the room.)

"Mit doesn’t talk much…"

"But he was there."

"He held her before I ever could."

(His jaw tightens.)

"I don’t want to compete."

"I don’t want to feel this."

"But I can’t stop."

(He flips the page slowly.)

Yash (writing):

"Ani…"

"Do you even notice me?"

"Or am I just another student… in another section?"

(He hears Jack snore loudly and almost laughs.)

But the smile fades.

Yash closes the diary softly.

He turns off the lamp.

Lies down.

But his eyes remain open.

Yash (thinking):

Mit may be close to her…

But my feelings…

are growing quietly.

And quiet things…

can become storms.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH. PLEASE SUPPORT ME I AM NEW BEGGINER.