Lunch break was never boring with our group.
That day, we all gathered near the school gate.
Officially, students weren't allowed to step out during school hours.
But unofficially… well, everyone did.
Even the little kids snuck out to buy chocolates.
But not Maanvi and Daisy.
They were too scared.
"Teachers will catch us!" they whispered like a warning.
I didn't listen.
Neither did Ruby.
We dashed out, bought sweets like we were rich, and stood under the hot sun enjoying them all.
Time slipped past us.
We didn't even realize the bell had rung — until we heard footsteps.
We froze.
Then ran.
We raced through the corridor, sweets still in our hands, trying to look as casual as possible.
But the moment we entered the classroom… the teacher was already there.
He turned slowly and asked,
"So… where were you, Ruby and Aysha?"
My brain shut down. My heart pounded.
Then — without thinking — I spoke.
"Sir… Ruby had a stomachache. I took her to the bathroom."
The entire class burst into laughter.
Ruby stared at me, wide-eyed.
I was scared. I thought, this is it. We're finished.
But the teacher just sighed.
"Next time, be on time. No more adventures."
We nodded furiously.
When he turned back, Ruby leaned closer and whispered,
"You better not eat my lunch today."
I laughed nervously. "It saved us, didn't it?"
She rolled her eyes, but I knew she wasn't mad.
Just… slightly traumatised.