Whispers of Truth | Matt Sturniolo

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𝘼𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙚

Nick had proposed that we create a TikTok for their group account, and I grabbed his phone, eagerly searching for the perfect audio clip to use. "We have to recreate this one!" I announced, pushing the phone to the center of the coffee table for everyone to gather around. On the screen, an iconic video unfolded, featuring Matt, Nick, Chris, and Madi lip-syncing to "Kickback" by Kblast with infectious energy and rhythm.

"Bet, but we aren't goin' outside for this shit" Matt, sitting beside Kami, playfully ran his fingers down her arm, creating an intimate connection between them.

I reclaimed Nick's phone, my fingers expertly navigating through the settings. Once everything was ready, I took charge of the situation, assigning each of our friends specific roles for the TikTok. My hands rested on my hips as I surveyed the group, divvying out tasks with an air of authority.

"Alright, here's the plan," I began, my gaze shifting between Matt, Nick, Chris, and Kami. "Matt and Nick, you two are going to switch roles. Kami, you're stepping into Madi's shoes, and Chris, you can bring your unique flair to your previous performance."

Matt couldn't help but scoff, pushing himself out of his seat. He stood up, his height looming over me, and commented, "Has anyone ever told you that you get a little bossy when you're drunk?"

I handed the phone to Chris, feeling an inkling of excitement rise within me. As Matt stood before me, playfully challenging my assertiveness, I met his teasing with a mischievous glint in my eye. My response carried a subtle flirtatious undertone as I leaned in closer to him, the warmth of the alcohol coursing through my veins emboldening me.

"Well, Matt," I purred, my voice dripping with playful suggestion, "maybe I'm just waiting for the right moment to unveil my 'full drunk' mode. Who knows what might happen then?" I observed Matt closely, noting the way his eyes slowly widened, and his throat tightened as he swallowed. The spark of our unspoken connection ignited something inside of me.

"Am I gonna have to get my hair wet for this again?" Turning my attention to Chris, his question about getting his hair wet made me giggle. The effects of the Mourvèdre had definitely taken hold. Driven by newfound boldness, my fingers reached out to gently tousle his soft, curly hair. As my fingers lightly ruffled Chris's soft, curly hair, I felt a rush of exhilaration. The playfulness in the air was undeniable, and for a brief moment, and I couldn't help but smile as I leaned in a little closer to Chris. However, in a gentle and considerate manner, Chris halted my advance.

"I'll go run my head under the shower" he said with a warm smile, his voice carrying a playful tone. The momentary flicker of intimacy was tucked away, and we refocused on the task at hand, letting the playful atmosphere continue to guide us as we began filming.

As Kami led Matt away for a private conversation, I found myself standing next to Nick, my heart still racing from the flirty exchange I had initiated with Chris earlier. I attempted to make small talk with Nick, but my efforts were soon interrupted when he gently placed his hand over mine. His eyes focusing into mine, and he asked with a mixture of curiosity and concern, "Arabella, what the fuck was that?" His question referred to my unmistakable attempts to seduce his brother just moments ago.

I couldn't help but giggle as I playfully asked, "Do you think he likes meee?" My voice drew out the 'e' in 'me' as I teased, giving it extra emphasis. However, Nick, the protective older; not by much, brother was far from amused by my antics. With a mix of concern and determination, he firmly but gently pushed me backward, which resulted in a surprised yelp as I landed on the couch, my body cushioned by the softness of the seat.