My brother My Hero (Book 1)

Dad Got transfer

(Prince and Vivek walk into their parents' room together. The atmosphere is unusually serious.)
Mom (soft but heavy):
Guys...
your father got his transfer letter today.
This time the city is far.
(Both brothers look at each other. The room goes silent.)
Both (almost together):
But what about our studies?
Dad (takes a deep breath):
That's why we called you, son.
Because of my health issues, I can't live there alone.
Your mom also has to come with me.
(pauses)
So... can you both-
Vivek (politely, steady):
Can we both what, dad?
Mom (gently):
Can you both live here with Uncle?
(Uncle has been working with the family for years-more like family than staff. There's complete trust.)
Vivek (without hesitation):
Yes, we can.
Prince (voice breaking):
But mom...
I can't live without you.
(His eyes fill with tears. Seeing him like this, Mom's eyes turn moist too.)
Mom (pulling him closer):
We will come to meet you both on weekends, dear.
Promise.
(After a lot of explaining, comforting, and reassurance, Prince finally agrees-reluctantly.)
Mom:
Prince, you can go now.
I want to talk to your brother.
(Prince nods quietly and leaves the room.)
(After Prince leaves.)
Mom (holding Vivek's hand):
I know we're not being fair to you.
But dear son, we have to take this step.
It's hard for us too.
Vivek (softly):
I understand, mom.
Don't worry.
Dad (serious, concerned):
We're not worried about you.
You're grown up, responsible.
(looks down for a moment)
We're worried about Prince.
Will you take care of him?
Can you handle him?
(Vivek understands exactly what they mean. Prince is loving-but impulsive, stubborn, and hard to control.)
Vivek (firm but calm):
Don't worry, mom and dad.
I'll handle him.
Mom (relieved):
You can go now, dear.
And please send him here.
(Vivek steps out and finds Prince.)
Vivek:
Dad is calling you.
Prince (sniffing, trying to sound normal):
Yes, dad.
(Prince enters the room.)
Dad (patting the bed):
Come here, boy. Sit.
We want to say something.
Prince (sits obediently):
Oh, for sure.
Dad (serious):
Since we'll be living in a different city,
we won't be able to keep our eyes on you.
But your brother is here.
(firm tone)
Behave yourself.
I hope we won't get any complaints about you from Vivek.
Be a good boy.
Always obey your brother.
Give him respect.
Follow what he tells you to do.
And yeah-
never throw tantrums at him.
Prince (grinning innocently, eyes sparkling with mischief):
Oh c'mon, dad.
I'm such an innocent and good kid.
I won't bother him.
I promise.
(Dad and Mom exchange a knowing look.)
(Two days later, their parents shift to another city.)
(The house feels quieter-but responsibility now rests heavily on Vivek's shoulders.)