𝐁𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐄. 𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐍 ✔︎

𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐱

NAYELI HAPPILY STEPPED into Jessica's house, kicking off her shoes as she followed her friend down to the basement. Jessica had planned a cozy night for the two of them, though Angela had decided to skip out to hang with Bella instead.

"So, who are you inviting to graduation?" Jessica asked as she carefully painted her nails.

"My mom's side of the family—her parents, Aunt Corie, and Uncle Theo. My dad and Lauren are coming too," Nayeli replied, sitting cross-legged on the floor.

Jessica glanced at her with a soft smile. "You know your mom is proud of you, right?"

"Yeah," Nayeli said, her voice tinged with doubt. "I think she's proud of me for graduating, but maybe not so much for the choices I've made in my love life."

Jessica reached for Nayeli's hand and began painting her nails sky blue. "She was a teenager once, too. She'd understand more than you think."

Nayeli smiled faintly. "I guess you're right."

Jessica grinned. "Of course I'm right. I'm Jessica freaking Stanley, valedictorian."

Nayeli burst out laughing, shaking her head. "Oh, Jess, your ego is ridiculous."

Jessica playfully blew her a kiss, and the two of them dissolved into laughter.