Scene 1: Early Morning – Maryam's Home (Picnic Day Begins)
The morning arrived with unusual excitement. The clock showed just past six when Maryam stepped into Ubaid and Irfan's room. Sunlight was only beginning to filter through the curtains, but both boys were already awake.
"Ammi, it's picnic day," Irfan said quickly, sitting up as soon as he saw her.
Maryam smiled, amused by their enthusiasm. "I can see that. Get fresh quickly. Breakfast is almost ready."
Ubaid was already gathering his backpack. "Ammi, I kept my water bottle, cap, and extra snacks. Abbu checked everything last night."
"That's good," Maryam said warmly. "Eat properly. Nathiya Gali is a long journey."
In the kitchen, Haroon was sipping tea, glancing occasionally at the clock. "Bus time is eight sharp, right?" he asked.
"Yes," Maryam replied. "They need to reach school before that."
By seven o'clock, the house was filled with the sound of hurried footsteps, clinking dishes, and excited chatter. Ubaid and Irfan ate their breakfast quickly but carefully, as if afraid to waste even a minute.
As they stepped outside, Haroon placed a hand on each of their shoulders. "Enjoy the picnic," he said calmly. "Stay with your teachers and look after each other."
"We will, Abbu," both replied together.
Maryam watched as Haroon drove them toward City School, her heart filled with a familiar mix of pride and mild worry—the kind every parent feels on such days.
Scene 2: City School – Senior Section Grounds (Departure Time)
The school grounds were buzzing with activity. Laughter echoed everywhere as students gathered in groups, some holding cameras, others waving at friends. Two large buses stood parked neatly—one marked for students, the other for teachers.
Ubaid and Irfan found their classmates easily.
"Ubaid!" a friend called. "Sit with us!"
Irfan tugged at Ubaid's sleeve. "Let's sit near the window."
Teachers moved around, checking attendance lists. Mrs. Haniya Rehan stood near the buses, overseeing everything with her usual composed authority.
"All students, please take your seats," she announced. "Teachers, kindly ensure discipline during the journey."
At exactly eight o'clock, engines started. Parents waved goodbye from outside the gates. Some students pressed their faces to the windows, waving enthusiastically.
As the buses rolled forward, cheers erupted inside.
"We're going to Nathiya Gali!" someone shouted.
Irfan laughed. "This already feels like a movie."
Ubaid looked outside, watching the city slowly fade behind them. "Just enjoy every moment," he said quietly.
Scene 3: On the Road – Bus Ride to Nathiya Gali
The journey was long but lively. Students sang songs, shared snacks, and recorded short videos. Teachers occasionally reminded them to lower their voices, but even they smiled at the joyful chaos.
"Take a selfie with me," Irfan said, holding up his phone.
Ubaid leaned in. "Make sure the mountains are in the background."
As the bus climbed higher, the air grew cooler. Green hills replaced buildings, and clouds seemed closer than ever.
"Look at that view," Ubaid said softly.
Irfan nodded, suddenly quiet. "It's beautiful."
Scene 4: Nathiya Gali – Picnic Spot (Late Morning)
By late morning, the buses arrived at Nathiya Gali. The moment students stepped down, a wave of excitement swept through them. Cool breeze, tall trees, and misty air welcomed everyone.
Teachers gathered the students briefly.
"You are free to enjoy," one teacher announced, "but remain within the marked area."
Students scattered happily. Some took group photos, others recorded videos, while a few simply sat on the grass, breathing in the fresh air.
Ubaid and Irfan walked together, taking pictures of trees and distant hills.
"This is worth every rupee," Irfan said with a grin.
Ubaid laughed. "Yes, and Abbu will ask us to describe everything."
Nearby, teachers chatted quietly, watching the students from a distance, occasionally reminding them to stay safe.
Scene 5: Lunch Time – Nathiya Gali Grounds (1 PM)
By one o'clock, teachers called everyone to gather for lunch. Mats were spread out, and lunch boxes were opened.
"Students first," a teacher instructed.
Ubaid and Irfan sat together, opening their lunch.
"Ammi packed extra parathas," Irfan said happily.
They ate with appetite, sharing bites with friends and laughing over small jokes.
Once students finished, teachers sat together to have their lunch, discussing the discipline and behavior of the children.
"They're enjoying responsibly," one teacher remarked.
"Yes," another agreed. "Days like this are important for them."
Scene 6: Afternoon – Leisure and Return Journey
The afternoon passed quickly. Students played light games, took final photographs, and sat quietly as the breeze grew cooler.
By five o'clock, teachers gathered everyone again.
"Time to return," Mrs. Haniya announced.
There were a few disappointed sighs, but most students looked tired and satisfied.
On the return journey, the bus was quieter. Some students slept, others leaned against windows, watching the fading hills.
Irfan rested his head back. "I don't want this day to end."
Ubaid smiled gently. "At least we'll remember it."
Scene 7: Evening – City School Grounds (Parents Waiting)
As the buses reached City School, the sky was beginning to turn orange. Parents were already gathered near the gate, waiting anxiously.
Haroon stood with Maryam, scanning the bus windows.
"There they are," Maryam said as she spotted Ubaid and Irfan stepping down.
The boys rushed toward them.
"How was it?" Maryam asked immediately.
"Ammazing!" Irfan replied. "We took so many pictures."
Ubaid added, "The weather, the food, everything was perfect."
Nearby, teachers ensured all students were picked up safely. Gradually, the school grounds emptied as families returned home.
Scene 8: Night – School WhatsApp Group Notification
Later that evening, parents' phones buzzed almost simultaneously. A message appeared on the school's official WhatsApp group:
"Dear Parents, Alhamdulillah today's picnic was completed safely. Thank you for your cooperation. Please note: School will remain OFF tomorrow."
Maryam read the message aloud.
Haroon smiled. "A well-earned rest for everyone."
Ubaid and Irfan exchanged happy looks. "Another day off," Irfan said softly.
As night settled in, the city grew quiet. The picnic day ended not just with tired feet and sleepy eyes, but with memories that would stay alive in conversations, photos, and hearts for a long time to come.