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For the rest of their brunch, an unspoken tension hung in the air. Ashley tried to conceal her inner turmoil, but Aron's confession had unsettled her in ways she couldn't ignore.
As they left the café, Aron walked Ashley to her car. He broke the silence. "Ashley, I understand if you need time to think about this. Our friendship means the world to me, and I don't want to jeopardize it. But I also can't deny what I feel."
Ashley bit her lip, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. She had always been guarded, protecting herself from the pain her family's history had taught her to expect. Aron, on the other hand, had always been open and affectionate.
"Can we still be friends if I'm not ready for more?" Ashley asked, her voice trembling.
Aron nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "Of course, Ash. I won't push you into something you're not comfortable with. Our friendship is too important to me."
But as they said their goodbyes, both wondered if their hearts would ever find common ground, or if their differences would ultimately drive them apart.
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YOU ARE READING
A Chance at Forever
Romance"Ashley and Aron, lifelong friends bound by shared secrets, stand at a crossroads. Their deep bond conceals unspoken desires, but Ashley's guarded heart clashes with Aron's open affection. As they navigate the choice between preserving their cherish...
