How can I (19F) reach out to my ex (18M) as a friend without making it seem romantic?

Hi everyone. I would like some advice about reaching out to my ex.

We broke up in July 2024 after a few months of dating. Things ended mostly because of small conflicts like not replying fast enough, losing Snapchat streaks, and similar little issues. Then he told me he had fallen out of love, and that was the end of it. We haven’t spoken since.

Now, months later, I’ve realized I don’t want him back romantically I just miss him as a person. He was genuinely funny, kind, and we had a great friendship under everything. Lately, I noticed that his TikTok reposts seem sad or depressed, and it made me wonder how he’s really doing.

The other day I bought his favorite perfume, and it reminded me of him, which made me want to reach out. I was thinking of texting him his old nickname “Phoenix” as a simple start. If he asks why, I’d say: “I bought your favorite perfume and it reminded me of you, so I wanted to see how you’re doing.”

I’m not trying to rekindle anything I just want to reconnect as friends and check in.

What’s the best way to reach out without it being mistaken for something romantic or reopening old feelings?