The morning sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a golden glow across Shanaya's room. She groaned softly, stretching her limbs before reaching for her phone. The moment she unlocked it, a smile unconsciously tugged at her lips.

Kabir: Good morning, sunshine. Hope you have a wonderful day.

Her heart did a little flip. No matter how simple his texts were, they always managed to bring an inexplicable warmth to her chest. Shaking her head at herself, she got up, ready to start the day.

Today was the day she and Isha had planned their shopping trip for the ball. Shanaya quickly freshened up, changed into a comfy yet stylish outfit, and headed out to meet her best friend.

---

The mall buzzed with weekend energy—people bustling in and out of stores, couples walking hand in hand, and groups of friends chatting animatedly. Isha was already waiting for her outside their favorite boutique, arms crossed and an all-too-knowing smirk on her lips.

"So," Isha started as soon as Shanaya approached, "how's the love life?"

Shanaya rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small blush that crept onto her cheeks. "It's good."

"Just good? After all those steamy texts and late-night drives?" Isha teased, wiggling her eyebrows.

"Shut up and help me find a dress," Shanaya deflected, dragging her inside before Isha could pry any further.

For the next hour, they browsed through racks of elegant gowns and stylish dresses, trying on countless options. Shanaya finally found the one—a breathtaking midnight blue dress that hugged her curves in all the right places, with delicate embellishments that shimmered under the light. The moment she stepped out of the fitting room, Isha's jaw dropped.

"Holy hell, Shanaya. Kabir's going to have a heart attack."

Shanaya chuckled, smoothing her hands over the fabric. "You think so?"

"I know so." Isha grinned. "And if he doesn't, he's blind."

After finalizing the dress, they paid for their purchases and decided to grab a coffee at their favorite cafe.

AT THE CAFE :

Settling into their seats with their drinks, Shanaya finally voiced the thoughts that had been lingering in her mind.

"Isha... I think I'm finally moving on from Rohan."

Isha looked up from her cappuccino, eyes studying her carefully. "That's a big deal. Do you feel ready?"

Shanaya sighed, stirring her coffee absentmindedly. "Kabir is different, you know? He doesn't make me feel like I need to fight for his attention. He's just... there. And it's effortless."

Isha nodded but leaned forward slightly. "That's amazing, and I'm so happy for you. But Shanaya, you need to stop comparing everyone to Rohan. If you keep doing that, you'll never fully let go."

Shanaya bit her lip, knowing Isha was right. "What if Kabir doesn't understand?"

"Then you make him understand," Isha said firmly. "Maybe not now, but after the party, you should tell him about your past. You can't keep carrying this weight alone."

Shanaya exhaled slowly. "You're right."

Isha smiled. "Of course I am. Now, let's go get pampered before the big night."

--------

The salon was the perfect end to their day—a peaceful retreat where they got their manicures and pedicures done, laughing and gossiping like carefree kids again. As the beauticians worked on their nails, Isha shot Shanaya a teasing look.

"So, are we expecting another 'Kabir Singh' moment from your man at the ball?"

Shanaya laughed, shaking her head. "I don't think so. But who knows? The night's full of surprises."

And with that, the countdown to the ball began.

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SO , WHAT DO YOU GUYS THINK WILL HAPPEN AT THE PARTY??

DROP ALL YOUR THOUGHTSS XXXXX

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