A regular afternoon at the Ram household. The ceiling fan spins lazily overhead. The TV plays a Tamil serial in the background. The smell of filter coffee and sambar wafts from the kitchen.
Shanthi: comes out of kitchen carrying a tray with coffee and snacks, adjusting her saree Vel da, come sit. I made your favorite bajji with coconut chutney. You didn't eat properly morning I know... sets tray down on the table, her eyes soft with concern
Shallu: appears from her room in casual clothes, immediately brightening seeing Vel Veluuu! rushes over and hugs him tightly from behind, pressing her cheek against his back I was waiting for you only... where were you all morning? plants a quick kiss on his neck
Shanthi: watching them with a small smile, not jealous Leave him da, he just came. Let him drink coffee at least.
Shallu: still clinging to Vel, pouting Amma you always interrupt...
Ram: walks in from his room, phone in hand, mid-conversation ...tell those MLA fellows I'll meet them tomorrow only. hangs up, looks at Vel Ah, the prince is here. Good. sits in his armchair with a grunt Your mother was asking about you since morning. Both of them actually. chuckles knowingly This house runs on your presence, Vel. Remember that.