Friendship Core

Chapter 5

It's now Stormie's turn to ask truth or dare, and she looks at Tyler with a sly smile. "Dare," Tyler says without missing a beat. "I dare you to kiss Michael," Stormie challenges, her voice low and daring.The room goes still, the only sound the faint crackle of the dying fire outside. Michael's eyes widen in surprise, his cheeks flushing as he turns to look at Tyler. Tyler laughs, but there's a hint of nervousness in her eyes. She knows she has feelings for Michael, but she's never admitted it out loud, not even to herself. "Okay," she says, taking a deep breath.Stormie watches the exchange, her heart racing. She feels a twinge of jealousy but quickly pushes it aside. This isn't about her and Lia; it's about Tyler and Michael. And she knows how it feels to hide your true feelings. So she leans back, sipping her drink, and lets the moment unfold.Tyler sashays over to Michael, her eyes gleaming with excitement. He's frozen in place, his cheeks a rosy shade of red. She stands on her tiptoe, closing the gap between them. For a second, it seems like time stops. Then, she kisses him. It's a quick peck, but it's enough to send a jolt through the room. The friends stare, their eyes wide with shock and amusement.When Tyler pulls away, she giggles nervously. "Well, that was... interesting," she says, trying to play it cool. Michael's mouth opens and closes like a fish out of water."Your turn," Stormie says, her voice gentle. She looks at Michael, who still seems to be in shock. "Truth or dare?"He clears his throat, his mind racing. "Truth," he finally manages to croak out.Stormie, enjoying the power she holds in this moment, leans in closer to him. "Who do you think is the most attractive person in this room?" she asks, her eyes sparkling with mischief.