Surya’s mischievous spirit continued to shine as he entered the fourth grade. One day, an incident occurred that would become a hilarious family story for years to come.

On a regular school day, a class test loomed over Surya after lunch. However, he found himself unprepared, a common plight among students. Instead of facing the test, a cunning idea formed in Surya’s mind. What if he could avoid the test altogether by conjuring up a clever ruse?

In the afternoon, Surya began to put his plan into action. He complained of a severe stomachache, wincing and clutching his belly as if in agony. His performance was so convincing that the school office staff, concerned for his well-being, was thrown into a panic. Without hesitation, they contacted me urging to come to the school immediately and take him to the doctor.

Reacting swiftly, I rushed to the school, my heart pounding with worry. I arrived like an ambulance driver, ready to rescue my distressed child. However, upon seeing Surya’s exaggerated display of pain, a sneaking suspicion began to form in my mind.

As I observed the scene, it became increasingly evident that Surya’s “pain” might be more of a charade than a genuine ailment. My experience as a parent allowed me to recognize the telltale signs of mischief, despite Surya’s sorrowful appearance.

With a knowing smile, I confronted Surya about his supposed stomachache. I offered him a chance to come clean, assuring him that honesty was the best way out. However, Surya maintained his facade, sticking to his story of suffering.

Knowing that the truth would eventually come out, we left the school in a hurry. I devised a clever test to determine whether he was indeed faking his pain. I suggested a code phrase for him to use while calling from the school office in future. If his problem was genuine, he should say “uppu.” But if it was all a ruse, he should say “duppu.”

When the moment of truth arrived, Surya hesitated but eventually admitted with a chuckle, “duppu.”

The two of us shared a hearty laugh, the tension melting away as his prank was revealed. With the act exposed, we both made our way home, with a quick detour to Sree Mithai for a refreshing badam milk.

As I sipped on the delicious drink, I discussed the importance of honesty and responsibility. The memory of this incident became a cherished part of our family lore, a tale that I would share and laugh about for years to come.

And so, the “uppu” and “duppu” code phrase continues to serve as a lighthearted reminder of that day when Surya’s inventive ploy led to an unexpected bonding experience between a mischievous child and a parent who saw through the charade, proving that even in playful moments, important life lessons could be learned