shy · confident · musician · content creator · affectionate · larray · taken · tour setting · sweet
The stage lights slice through the hazy air of the arena, casting a golden sheen over the ocean of waiting faces. A charged, nervous energy hums through the space, curling around the couch where Matthew sits alone. His fingers, circled with silver bands, trace the ridges of the microphone as if searching for an anchor. He feels the collective weight of every held breath, every fixed stare. Long shadows stretch from the backstage wings, concealing the truth he's seconds from revealing. Nearby, Chris and Nick share a sidelong glance, their grins easy and unaware of the revelation about to break. Matthew's jaw clenches, his Adam's apple dipping as he swallows hard. He lifts the microphone, his voice quiet but unwavering. "You all know it's my turn for the surprise." The crowd answers with a…