The episode begins with Mangal, who is busy with her work, telling her son Akshat that they can go shopping together once she finishes her tasks. She instructs him to complete his homework in the meantime, but Akshat appears visibly upset. His mood shifts when Kapil arrives, noticing his sadness and asking about it. Akshat reveals his disappointment over Mangal not taking him shopping, emphasizing the importance of the items they need to buy.
Mangal explains that they are planning a surprise for Ishana, who is returning the next day from her school exchange program. This surprise necessitates shopping for a few special items. Kapil, eager to help, offers to take Akshat shopping and promises to treat him to a donut. Although Mangal initially insists that it’s not necessary since her work is nearly complete, Akshat pleads to go with Kapil. Eventually, Mangal relents, allowing the two to go shopping while Adit observes the unfolding situation from outside. Akshat excitedly informs Adit about his plans before leaving, leaving Adit watching thoughtfully.
Meanwhile, Kusum is busy preparing for Ishana’s return. She instructs their maid, Kamala, to gather the items Ishana enjoys and hands her a list of special dishes to prepare. Kusum is filled with anticipation, wanting to make Ishana feel cherished upon her return. However, Sowmya enters the scene, criticizing Kusum for her choices and questioning the expense of the items on the list. She points out that Ishana has become health-conscious and likely won’t appreciate Kusum’s cooking, suggesting that Kusum should reconsider her plans. Sowmya then attempts to call Ishana, but her attempts are thwarted as the phone remains unreachable, raising her suspicions about Ishana’s early return.
Excitement fills Mangal as she makes reservations at Ishana’s favorite restaurant, eager to create a memorable welcome. Just as she prepares to leave, a photo frame falls, causing her to feel an unsettling sense of unease. Concerned for Ishana’s well-being, she tries calling her daughter again, but the phone remains unreachable. Worrying about Ishana’s safety, Mangal approaches Adit to inquire about Ishana’s return, seeking flight details or contact information for her friends. Adit reassures her that Ishana is likely on the flight, explaining the unavailability of her phone. Despite his comfort, Mangal’s concern lingers.
Later that night, Mangal experiences a vivid dream in which Ishana cries out for help, evoking a deep sense of dread. Startled awake, she questions her feelings of impending danger surrounding her daughter. In a moment of desperation, she prays to Maata Rani for Ishana’s protection, resolving to stay close to her children in the days to come.
The following morning, a group of parents gathers anxiously, questioning the watchman about the delay of the school bus. He advises them to speak with the Principal for further information. Mangal, concerned, calls Adit to inform him of the situation and the growing worry among the parents. Adit reassures her, promising to come soon. When the bus finally arrives, parents joyfully reunite with their children, but Mangal’s heart sinks as she checks the bus and realizes that Ishana is not among the returning students. Confronting the driver, she learns that he dropped off all the children safely, urging her to speak with the teacher for more information. Mangal’s anxiety escalates.
Meanwhile, Akshat busily decorates their home with balloons in preparation for Ishana’s surprise welcome. However, Sowmya remains troubled by Ishana’s unresponsiveness, questioning why she hasn’t answered her calls while everyone else is preparing for her return.
In a moment of urgency, Mangal meets with the Principal to address Ishana’s absence. The Principal reveals that Ishana had left the exchange program a week earlier, claiming her father was unwell, and had later informed them that she had arrived home safely. Mangal is taken aback, her mind racing as she insists that Adit is perfectly fine and questions why the school didn’t confirm this with him. The teacher explains that they did not want to disturb the family during a time of crisis.
Returning home, Mangal confronts Adit about Ishana’s departure from the program. She emphasizes that Ishana is his responsibility and presses him for the last time he spoke with her. Adit deflects, stating that Sowmya is the one who regularly communicates with Ishana. This prompts Mangal to call Sowmya, where she accuses her of encouraging Ishana to lie and abandon the program. Sowmya dismisses Mangal’s concerns, suggesting that sometimes lies are acceptable.
The tension escalates as Mangal scolds Sowmya, warning her against influencing her daughter negatively. Sowmya retorts, asserting that Ishana is now her daughter and that Mangal should respect her boundaries. Mangal stands firm in her conviction that Ishana is her daughter, determined not to let her be swayed by Sowmya’s influence.
Sowmya turns to Adit, seeking validation for her feelings, as Mangal continues to express her frustrations. Adit finally questions Sowmya about Ishana’s whereabouts, expressing concern over her absence. Internally, Sowmya panics as she realizes that the truth of her actions—having given money to Ishana for enjoyment with her friends—might soon come to light. The episode concludes with an air of suspense as the characters grapple with their intertwined fates and the looming possibility of secrets being revealed.