**Chapter 4: A Heart in Turmoil**

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Two days had passed since Ashley and Aron's brunch, and Ashley couldn't escape the whirlwind of emotions that had consumed her. Her work at the design company usually offered a welcome distraction, but today, even the vibrant colors on her computer screen couldn't dispel her thoughts of Aron.

She sat at her desk, absently sketching designs while her mind raced. Her unloving family had instilled a fear of vulnerability in her, but Aron had always been a constant source of warmth and kindness. The prospect of something more with him was both exhilarating and terrifying.

Her phone buzzed, breaking her concentration. It was a text from Aron. "Hey, Ash. Just checking in. How are you feeling?"

Ashley stared at the message for a moment before typing her reply. "I've been thinking a lot, Aron. This is new territory for me, and it's scary. But I don't want to lose our friendship either."

As she hit send, she couldn't help but wonder if she had made the right choice. The uncertainty of it all weighed heavily on her heart. She needed time to process her feelings, but she also knew that Aron deserved an honest response.

Minutes later, her phone chimed with Aron's reply. "I understand, Ash. Take all the time you need. Our friendship means everything to me too."

Ashley sighed, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension. She knew that the path ahead was uncertain, but she also knew that she had a friend in Aron who was willing to walk it with her, no matter where it led.

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