Scene 1 — The Final Rehearsal Morning
The sun rose brightly on 12th August, casting golden light across the courtyard of City School. Excitement rippled through the classrooms — today was the final rehearsal for the much-awaited 14th August function.
Teachers hurried students into lines, adjusting scarves, smoothing uniforms, and handing last-minute instructions.
In the auditorium, the stage lights were switched on. The green backdrop with the crescent and star shimmered proudly. A giant banner above read:
"Pakistan — Unity, Faith, Discipline"
Principal Mrs. Uzma Rashid stood in the center aisle, clipboard in hand, observing everything with sharp eyes.
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Scene 2 — Ubaid's Speech
Ubaid, dressed neatly in a white shalwar kameez with a green waistcoat, walked to the podium. Unlike earlier rehearsals, he carried no paper in his hand. His eyes were steady, his small shoulders square with determination.
He began, voice clear and ringing through the hall:
"Respected Principal, dear teachers, and my fellow students — today, as we celebrate the freedom of our beloved Pakistan, let us remember the sacrifices that built this nation. Independence is not a gift to be taken lightly; it is a responsibility…"
He gestured naturally, every word flowing as though carved in his heart.
Teachers whispered among themselves:
"Look at him — so confident."
"He doesn't even need notes!"
When Ubaid ended with, "Pakistan Zindabad!" his voice boomed with passion, earning loud claps from students sitting in the audience.
Principal Uzma leaned toward Miss Ayesha.
"This boy has a spark. I can already see him making the audience emotional on the 14th."
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Scene 3 — Irfan's Tablo
Next, the tabla music started, and Irfan stood in the front row of children, all waving green and white scarves.
The tune of "Sohni Dharti Allah Rakhe" filled the hall. Irfan's steps were sharp and synchronized, his little feet moving with energy. At one point, he twirled and raised the scarf high, his face glowing with pride.
Miss Erum clapped her hands as the song ended.
"Perfect! This time, every step was in rhythm."
The children shouted together, "Pakistan Zindabad!" and their voices echoed like a promise.
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Scene 4 — Principal Uzma's Reaction
As the rehearsal wrapped up, Principal Uzma stood and addressed the students and staff.
"Well done, all of you. I am deeply impressed. Each performance shows hard work — from speeches to tablos, from singing to drama. Teachers, you've guided them beautifully. I am proud of this school today."
The children beamed, whispering excitedly among themselves.
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Scene 5 — The Meeting
After lunch break, the teachers gathered in the staffroom for a meeting. The air smelled faintly of samosas and chai, but everyone sat attentively as Principal Uzma cleared her throat.
"I have an important announcement," she said, pausing just long enough to build suspense. "On 14th August, our function will be attended by Mr. Riaz Hashmi, the Education Minister of our province, and his wife, Mrs. Samina Hashmi."
The room fell silent. Teachers exchanged stunned glances.
Miss Nadia whispered, "The Education Minister? Here?"
Miss Erum muttered nervously, "That means extra pressure. What if the kids forget their lines?"
Uzma noticed the rising panic and raised her hand firmly.
"Relax, everyone. I know it sounds overwhelming, but trust me, you are all prepared. Don't let the titles of our guests scare you. They are here to appreciate, not criticize. Just do what you've been doing — with dedication."
The tension eased as she continued.
"Also, remember — discipline will matter as much as performance. Ensure neat uniforms, punctuality, and proper arrangements. Now, go and give your classes the confidence they need."
The meeting ended, and teachers returned to their classrooms, whispering excitedly but more reassured.
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Scene 6 — Evening Calm at Maryam's Home
At dismissal, Ubaid and Irfan ran into their mother's arms at the school gate, their faces glowing with excitement.
"Ammi, Ammi!" Ubaid exclaimed. "Principal praised my speech! She said I will impress everyone!"
Irfan added, hopping with joy, "And I did my steps perfectly! The whole class clapped for me."
Maryam hugged them tightly, her heart swelling with pride.
"MashaAllah, my brave sons. May Allah keep you shining always."
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Scene 7 — Sales Surging at Amana Superstore
Meanwhile, across town at Amana Superstore, the situation was electric. It was no longer a daily increase — now sales were spiking every hour.
Families crowded the aisles, some grabbing shirts, others filling baskets with stitched suits. The discount banners fluttered above their heads. The cash counters rang constantly, and the workers barely had time to breathe.
On the office balcony overlooking the floor, Rimsha and Imran stood side by side.
"Look at this," Imran said, shaking his head in amazement. "Every ten minutes, we're clearing racks. I didn't expect demand to explode like this."
Rimsha smiled, though a thoughtful look crossed her face.
"This is a blessing. But with blessing comes responsibility. We must share this joy with those who work tirelessly for us."
Imran nodded slowly, already sensing her next idea.
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Scene 8 — Rimsha's Announcement
That night, just as workers prepared to clock out, Rimsha walked to the center of the floor. Her voice carried clearly above the hum of the air-conditioners.
"Everyone, before you leave, please give me a moment."
The staff, tired but curious, gathered around her. Imran stood beside her, hands folded.
Rimsha continued warmly:
"These past weeks, you've worked day and night. Because of your hard work, our sales are not just growing — they are soaring. I know you are tired, but I also know you are proud of what we've achieved together."
She paused, scanning their faces.
"That is why I have decided to issue each of you a bonus cheque this month, in addition to your salary. It is my way of saying thank you."
The room filled with gasps of surprise. Workers looked at each other in disbelief.
"Bonus? For us?" whispered Zeenat, her eyes wide.
"I can finally pay my son's admission fee," Sadia murmured, tears forming.
Applause erupted, echoing through the store. Some clapped, others wiped their eyes.
Imran added with a proud smile:
"Celebrate this Independence Day not just as Pakistan's freedom, but as your own achievement too. You deserve it."
The workers cheered loudly: "Pakistan Zindabad! Amana Superstore Zindabad!"
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Scene 9 — Closing Reflections
Later, when the shutters rolled down and silence returned, Rimsha sat in the office chair, exhausted yet content.
Imran leaned against the desk, looking at her.
"You know, Rimsha… you've changed the meaning of management for me. Numbers matter, yes. But people matter more. Their loyalty is worth more than profit."
She smiled faintly.
"And when you care for people, profit comes on its own."
The clock struck midnight. Outside, the city glowed with green lights and flags fluttering in the breeze.
Independence Day was near — and for both City School and Amana Superstore, the stage was set for a celebration of not only freedom, but of unity, gratitude, and dreams.
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End of Chapter