When Hearts Collide

|•Chapter 23•|

**Author’s POV**

The days following Ekansh and Naina’s heartfelt conversation at the café were filled with tentative optimism. They had begun to rebuild their connection, but the road ahead was fraught with challenges. Trust, once fractured, took time to mend, and both were aware that their journey was far from over.

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**Naina’s POV**

Naina found herself in a whirlwind of emotions as she prepared for her mother’s birthday party. It was an important family event, and she had spent the morning making sure everything was perfect. Despite her busy schedule, her thoughts kept drifting back to her conversation with Ekansh.

She had seen a new side of him—one that was vulnerable and genuinely committed to making things right. Yet, the fear of falling back into old patterns loomed large. Every interaction with him felt like a balancing act between hope and hesitation.

As she dressed in a deep blue saree, her phone buzzed on the dresser. It was a message from Ekansh.

**Ekansh:** *“Hey, how’s the party planning going? I was thinking about coming over to help if you need it.”*

Naina smiled at the thought, feeling a warm flutter in her chest. The gesture was thoughtful and spoke volumes about his willingness to be involved in her life.

**Naina:** *“That would be great! There’s always something last-minute to do. I’d love your help.”*

As she finished getting ready, Naina couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. She wanted everything to be perfect, not just for her mother, but as a sign that things between her and Ekansh were progressing in the right direction.

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