We're just friends...or are we.? |[ carlando]|

" they were made for each other.... " - 36

~okay so my school just updated my Thanksgiving break and it isn't till next NEXT weekend.. but tomorrow is lando's birthday so everything is okay!

(I'm actually crashing out, my friend got caught with my homework and the teacher took BOTH papers away and gave both of us a 0. RISHWIJQJAIA)

------

Tuesday came around, marking just one day until Lando’s 25th birthday. Carlos was in full preparation mode, making sure everything was perfect: the presents needed to arrive on time, the cake had to be ready, his parents were planning to come over before Lando woke up on Wednesday, and dinner reservations were set.

While Lando, Carlos's dad, and his cousin Caco were out for a jog, Carlos had a bit of quiet time to finalize a few things for Lando’s small surprise party. He walked up to his parents’ porch, balancing a few bags in his hands filled with last-minute party essentials.

Just as he was about to enter the house, a thought struck him: he’d forgotten something important. The promise ring. Carlos sighed, dropped the bags in the hallway, and sprinted to his laptop, determined to find the nearest jewelry store.

But before he could even type in a search, his mother, Reyes, walked over and placed a small box on the table in front of him.

- “Mamá, ahora no, tengo que buscar algo,” ("Mom, not now, I have to look for something.")

Carlos said distractedly, still focused on his laptop.

Reyes chuckled softly, patting his hand.

- “Ábrelo, Carlos. Confía en mí.” ("Open it, Carlos. Trust me.")

Carlos hesitated, looking between her and the box. With a sigh, he reached for the box and lifted the lid. Inside was a beautifully crafted promise ring, with their initials engraved in delicate script.

His face softened, and a smile spread across his lips as he looked up at his mother, a wave of gratitude hitting him. Without another word, he jumped up and wrapped his arms around her.

- “Gracias, mamá. Es perfecto,” ("Thank you, Mom. It’s perfect.")

he murmured, his voice filled with appreciation.

Reyes chuckled, hugging him back tightly.

- “No tienes que agradecerme, hijo. Sabía cuánto significaba esto para ti,” ("You don’t have to thank me, son. I knew how much this meant to you.")

she replied warmly.

Carlos pulled back and looked down at the ring once more, feeling a warmth in his chest. Together, they began wrapping the gifts and setting everything up. Carlos carefully hid the presents in a spot he was sure Lando wouldn’t find. They finished just in time, as the sound of the front door opening signaled Lando, Sainz Sr., and Caco returning from their jog.

- “Hello, everyone!”

Lando called out cheerfully, stepping into the house with a wide grin.

Carlos turned to greet him, trying to keep his excitement under wraps.

- “Hola, amor! How was the run?”

Lando chuckled, catching his breath.

- “It was great, but I think your dad and Caco were trying to race me the whole time!”

Sainz Sr. laughed, patting Lando on the back.

- “Well, we had to test your speed, Lando! You’re faster on the track, but here, it’s a whole different story.”