When Hearts Collide

|•Chapter 17•|

**Naina’s POV**

The following week was a whirlwind of activity, but the atmosphere at home had shifted. With the heavy conversation about our relationship out in the open, there was a sense of relief that made everything feel lighter. We were still navigating the delicate balance between maintaining our friendship and exploring whatever might be developing between us, but at least now, we had the freedom to do so without the weight of hidden expectations.

Today was Saturday, and I had invited Riya over to finally catch up. I hadn’t had a chance to speak with her in person since the family meeting, and I knew she was eager to hear all the details. I had planned a small brunch at home, hoping to give us a relaxed environment to talk.

As I set the table, arranging plates and cutlery with practiced ease, my phone buzzed. I glanced at it and saw a message from Ekansh.

**Ekansh**: “Hey, I was thinking of picking up some pastries from that bakery we like. Want me to bring some over?”

I smiled at the thought. The bakery was one of our favorite spots, and pastries would definitely add a special touch to the brunch.

**Naina**: “That sounds great! See you soon.”

I put my phone down and continued setting up. The doorbell rang just as I finished, and I quickly went to answer it, finding Riya standing there with a wide grin.

“Naina! It’s about time you told me everything,” she said, hugging me tightly.

I laughed, ushering her inside. “I know, I know. I’ve been terrible at keeping secrets.”

We quickly got into the details of what had happened since the last time we saw each other. Riya was all ears, hanging on to every word as I recounted the family meeting and the aftermath.

“So, your parents actually took it well?” she asked, her eyes wide.

“Surprisingly so,” I replied. “I was expecting a lot more resistance, but they were actually quite understanding.”

Riya looked impressed. “That’s amazing. But I have to ask—how are you and Ekansh doing? I mean, now that the ‘secret’ is out?”

I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me as I thought about Ekansh. “We’re taking it one step at a time. It’s nice to be able to be open about how we feel without the added pressure.”

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