Best Mistake ★ Nicholas Chavez

Nine | birthday boy

Present day

—••—

Amara was out with her friends Madelyn, Zendaya, Madison, and Renee, soaking in the rare occasion of their whole group being together. With their busy schedules, it was a treat to catch up over drinks at a trendy café in LA. Drew had joined them as well, but by this point, they considered him one of the girls.

As they chatted, Madelyn recounted a hilarious story from her recent photoshoot, sending the group into fits of laughter. Zendaya leaned back in her chair, her smile bright, while Madison, Drew and Renee chimed in with their own entertaining tales from the week.

After a moment of comfortable chatter, Amara looked around the table, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. "So, tomorrow is Nicholas's birthday," she said, her tone casual yet curious. "I'm not sure if I should get him a gift or not."

"I think you definitely should," Zendaya encouraged, leaning forward with a grin. "But it's just... I don't want it to be weird if I get him something," Amara replied, biting her lip as she weighed the possibilities.

Madelyn and Madison exchanged a knowing glance and said in unison, "Why not? You're friends again!" They emphasized the word "friends," their teasing tones laced with playful mischief. Renee leaned in, her eyes sparkling with intrigue. "What kind of gift are we talking about? Something sweet, or are you planning to go big?"

Amara shrugged, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "I don't know! Maybe something thoughtful, but not over the top." Zendaya smiled knowingly. "If you care enough to think about it, I'd say go for it."

"A cactus!" Drew interjected, his expression surprisingly serious. The girls turned to him, eyebrows raised in confusion. "A cactus?" Amara echoed, puzzled.

"Yeah, why not?" Drew replied, animated now. "Cacti represent strength and resilience. Plus, they're low-maintenance—just like a guy should be!"

Amara burst out laughing, shaking her head in disbelief. "That's one way to put it! But is giving him a cactus a bit too random?"

"Not at all!" Madison chimed in, still giggling. "It's cute and memorable. It'll definitely stand out, just like you do."

Renee nodded enthusiastically. "And think about it: every time he looks at it, he'll think of you!" Amara hesitated, a thoughtful frown crossing her face. "But what if he thinks I got him a cactus because I think he's prickly or something?"

The group erupted in laughter, and Zendaya shook her head, trying to suppress her giggles. "Oh please, you're overthinking it! I highly doubt he'll take it that way." Madison added with a smirk, "Yeah, if he's smart, he'll see it as a fun and quirky gift—nothing more."

Renee chimed in, "Besides, if he does take it that way, just tell him it's a compliment! It means he's tough but can still be cute!" Amara couldn't help but smile at her friends' enthusiasm. "Okay, fair point. I guess it could be seen as a compliment. And if he doesn't get it, I can always explain."

Drew grinned, leaning back in his chair. "Exactly! And if he really thinks you think he's prickly, it just means you've made a lasting impression. That's a win!"

Amara laughed, feeling her nerves begin to ease. "Alright, alright! I'm convinced. I'll just have to make sure I explain the meaning behind it when I give it to him."

"Perfect!" Madelyn said, raising her glass. "Here's to a successful birthday gift that's not too prickly!"Everyone clinked their glasses together, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement as Amara felt a surge of anticipation for the next day.