Chapter Eight: When Love Isn't Enough

Huey didn't know what could said about him as a person that time with his girlfriend brought him out of his depression. His brother would call him all types of "soft"s and "bitch"es if he knew. How long had he'd let this philosophical dilemma wear him down? Months? Months of mental anguish wondering if he was with her for valid reasons or if he was perpetuating a centuries long extermination of his people. One conversation and the best nut of his life put a lot of things in perspective for Huey. What could anyone say? No matter how great Huey was, he was still a teenage boy. Most teenagers struggled with sorting their hormones from substance. Huey realized he needed to get his shit together. It made no sense that a stranger's words had him shook for so long. The normalcy he was feeling was probably temporary; it wouldn't take long before some news story or viral video to bring him down. He'd take this moment to do what he should have done long ago.

What we have is a microcosm of the ramifications of abducting millions of heterogeneous people, stripping them of their family, language, traditions, and cultures, then forcing them to adapt and assimilate without resources, history, or guidance. Our struggle to unite and uplift Black people in the United States of Amerikkka, has been an ongoing battle since the moment the Europeans set eyes on our ancestors. Amalgamating the descendants of such a vast continent is dubious and seemingly improbable; finding and subsequently replacing a leader for this new race becomes an albatross. Despite this, I assumed everyone following this page was united under a common goal, justice and reparations. The comment section had me ...vexed. Some of your statements inspired empathy and understanding, but there were many that had me angered and perplexed. However, censoring my people, especially when there are so few of us privileged with a forum, is something I vehemently reject. I have not, and will not disable the comment section unless I see hazing or threats on someone's life.

Our online debacle was originally a post about Sandra Bland. I was ranting about the lack of action after her murder. A commenter felt like I was blaming this inaction on black women. She felt as if my personal life didn't match the my public persona. Inevitably, several tangents formed from her comment to which I've been silent. This was wrong and weak of me. Jazmine and Tanzania have become the embodiment of a colorist feud. My choice in either female became a projection, validation that one skin tone is inherently better than the other. The premise to this is so ludicrous that it's risible. If you knew them, hell if you knew me personally, you'd know they both could do better. Looks aren't the anchor for relationships. Relationships based on color are doomed to fail and/or become toxic. My preference is black; skin tone doesn't matter to me. Jazmine is my girl. Tanzania is my neighbor; she has a boyfriend. I'm pretty simple; I'm with the girl who's supported me since fourth grade. It is what it is.

Followers, I understand you. It seems like there is no winning; society, family, so called friends, and your counterparts will sell you out and disrespect you on a dime. Sometimes all that makes the day better is validation of your worth, or to see someone embody your beliefs and be alright. Media matters. Even if you don't know me, my choices effect you. Public figures have a responsibility because we inspire and influence those watching. I understand the feeling of betrayal when we fall short, especially since falls from grace are seem more common place than success. Public figure should strive to do better, but we're still people at the end of the day. And I'm not about to tolerate anymore bullshit toward my girl and my classmate anymore. Nigga don't try me.

Trust me, I'm not trying to apotheosize myself. The passion in these 10,000+ comments have merit. There was a lot of hurt in these comments. If I'm talking about you I suggest you start with personal responsibility, try to figure out why you're in such a state of duress without generalizing. Using 'black women' and 'black men' as an excuse is scapegoating. Was is your parents? Siblings? Ex? Exes? Bullies? A backwards neighborhood/upbringing? Then you need to heal yourself, practice safe care and get some counseling; otherwise you'll perpetuate the same pattern and hurt yourself. Afterward, move from the situation, if your dating selection is hindered by your area GET AWAY. If your family or lover is stealing/hurting/neglecting you GET AWAY. Then be selective on whom you let in next; be cautious, but not evasive. Once you're strong, come back and we'll work on the rest of our people. I understand that this shit was vague and easier said than done, but there are thousands of you. Take what works.

Make good decisions.

-Huey Freeman

Huey felt a little winded as he pulled himself up. It had been a little while since he last exercised; he wasn't at peak physical fitness anymore. Huey definitely felt beta for that. He'd let comments from niggas he would never meet break him. Huey was surprised he hadn't learned his lesson the first time he dabbled with toxic media. This wasn't nearly as bad as his BET study though. Huey stopped when he heard his phone ring. He jumped down and answered without looking at the number.

"Yeah?"

"Thank you, 'uey." Huey realized he was speaking with Tanzania. "Although a lot of people still tink I'm ya side chick, it means so much that you defended me and bestie."

Huey shook his head. "Don't mention it. I should have done it months ago, especially since you were bothered. Disrespect of black women shouldn't be commonplace."

"It'z okay now. I' been reading some of the responses to your post. Some of dem missed ya point. You don't tink relations between black men and black women are too broken do you?"

"It can improve, after all we're talking."

Tanzania laughed, "God, yes! There are some days when I can't stand you, Huey Freeman." She stopped chuckling and got serious. "I'll always have your back though, neighbor."

"Yeah, you too."

"Bye."

Huey thought about the exchange he just had and decided to text Caesar.

Zany called me, thanking me for defending her and Jazmine. Can you believe that? I didn't even really do shit. -Huey Freeman

The black woman sure has a big heart. -King Caesar

Just knowing you're looking out for them is enough sometimes. Maybe she'll look at you with a little less hate. -King Caesar

Until we get into it again. Democrats... -Huey Freeman

Speaking of Zany. I'm working with Hiro on the playlist for prom. Shit is fire. I guess I'll forgive him for stealing wifey. -King Caesar

Wifey? You never asked her out. -Huey Freeman

Tragic though, I think she liked you. -Huey Freeman

It is the 21st century, maybe she should've asked me out. -King Caesar.

No. -Huey Freeman

Maybe I should have played it like you and stayed vague until she connected the dots. -King Caesar

Huey cringed thinking about his younger self. He was so cryptic that he was amazed Jazmine knew what he wanted. Maybe she wasn't as ditsy as he thought. I don't know what you're talking about. -Huey Freeman

BTW I asked a Becky to prom. -King Caesar

... -Huey Freeman

Nigga you can't send silence via text. -King Caesar

I don't know what to say. I guess it makes sense. You didn't have a choice. You asked her about BLM? Does she know you're a revolutionary? -Huey Freeman

Couldn't be with any girl if she wasn't down with both. Being with me means being with all of me. -King Caesar.

She's cool. I think you'll like her. She's almost 20. You know how I feel about older women. -King Caesar

Do I know her? -Huey Freeman

I'm not sure. -King Caesar

We'll see. -King Caesar

Okay. -Huey Freeman

I guess the real question is if she knows about your mama. -Huey Freeman

LOL okay nigga let's do this. -King Caesar

Huey grabbed the bar again and resumed his workout. However, it was cut short again by his door being thrown open. It was his girlfriend. Jazmine pulled a chair and stood on it to be eye-level with the preoccupied Huey. "Oh my God, Huey! Look at this dress! It's so pretty! Such a warm ocean color, so soft, but bright! And it's flowy! You'll never believe where I found it." She didn't even give him enough time to ask. "Facebook! I know it's targeted advertising, but who cares! If I twirled in this, I'd look like a flower! I must have this dress for prom! And the best part is it's from a seamstress not a factory! She's in Baltimore! Black girl magic! Black girl magic! She says she can take my measurements this weekend!"

"Good."

Jazmine leaned into Huey's face. "What are you doing?"

Huey gave her an exasperated look before letting the bar go. He landed effortlessly although annoyed. "Nothing now."

"Oh. You want me to see if she can make you something to match?"

"For prom? Not going."

"Well I am! It was boring when you missed last year. Caesar only did line dances with me. His ex was so mean! My friends were cool and all, but this year is different. It's the last year! I need to do it right! If you don't go I guess I have to ask someone else..." Jazmine twirled the end of her cornrows and looked at Huey mischievously. Huey's eyebrow raised. He knew what she was doing. He wasn't going to fall of it. "I'm sure it won't be too hard to find a date. I am a cheerleader after all. Maybe I should ask a lacrosse player, no, maybe someone that plays basketball... No, that guy in class, Kyle!"

"...go ahead."

"Really?" Jazmine pouted.

Huey shrugged. Monotone, he replied. "Do you, live your life. I wouldn't want you to have regrets."

"Then I will! And I'm going to dance with him!"

"'Kay"

"To every slow song and trap song!" Jazmine stormed toward the door, "I'll never forgive you if you miss this. I will get a new boyfriend, I swear I will!"

"..."

"Huey!"

"...I'll go since it's our last year."

Jazmine smiled. "Thank you"

Jazmine skipped the entire way home. She didn't notice anything or anyone else as she pranced down Timid Deer Lane. She was so excited about prom. Last year wasn't any fun. Huey didn't go with her so she was third wheel to Caesar and his ex girlfriend Gabriela. Gabriela didn't like Jazmine hanging with her Caesar without Huey. Jazmine felt isolated most of the dance. If it wasn't for Lizzie, Tara, and Cindy, she would have left. This time would be different. She wanted to make a Cinderella transformation. She wasn't one for dressing down; even now she was in designer jeans and a form fitting sweater. She just wanted to make Huey's jaw drop.

"Jazmine!" Her dad flung open the door before she reached the stoop.

The biracial teen was alarmed. Her eyes widened in fear. What had Tom so excited? "What?! Am I in trouble? Are you in trouble?"

Tom laughed. "No. Of course not, Princess. Your letters from State and University came!"

Jazmine trembled as she took the letters from Tom. All those years of not applying herself came back to haunt her. She was an average student: few As, mostly Bs, and many Cs. Jazmine wished she'd studied more. As she opened the letter, she braced herself for rejection. She wasn't worried; she'd apply to community college, work her ass off, and transfer to university with a stellar GPA. Maybe she could take some classes online and go wherever Huey was planning on going. She wondered if he still wanted to travel. It was a great plan to fall back on.

Jazmine read the first lines. Congratulations on your admission for the school year... Jazmine froze. She got in. They accepted her. An average student that didn't apply herself until her senior year somehow got into university. "I got in..."

"Congratulations! I knew you could do it! I'm so proud of you Jazmine!"

Jazmine felt numb as her father wrapped her in a crushing hug. She felt all his love and support, but she didn't know what to do with it. She apparently was going to college. Jazmine thought about the times she sat in class with no idea what the teacher was talking about. She thought about the days she missed because she was "stressed out". She frowned. "I didn't deserve this..."

"Don't be silly, of course you did."

Jazmine pulled away. "No I didn't! I'm not even on the honor roll! This is- this is- affirmative action!" Jazmine felt cold, a lump formed in her throat. "I'm not going!"

"You don't mean that. Baby, college is-"

"No! I'm not going!"

Jazmine threw her letter on the ground and ran back the the Freeman house in tears. Huey was on the computer when she burst into his room. He sighed. He didn't bother signing out of what he was doing. "What's wrong?"

Her feelings of failure were written all over her face; her eyes burned in self loathing. He could hear venom in her voice. "I got in. I got accepted."

"...and that's bad?"

"Wake up! You and I both know I don't have the grades for college. I don't have the smarts. This was affirmative action. I took somebody's spot! I don't deserve it. I'm such a failure."

Huey found it a little humorous that Jazmine was telling him to wake up, however, he focused on the apparent problem at hand. "I agree. It definitely wasn't your grades. I thought you got a 23 on the ACT; that's good enough to get into college. Maybe it was affirmative action, maybe it wasn't. Who cares? Please do not fall for that 'reverse discrimination' bull shit; you know what's the 'reverse' of discrimination? Reparation, inclusion, impartiality..."

"..."

"Affirmative action is mainly used to get white girls into college. What race did you select?"

"Black."

"Hmm... Your essay?"

"My essay was applying Du Bois's theory of double consciousness to my experience as a biracial girl in a predominately White, Anglo-Saxon, Protestant neighborhood."

Huey stopped typing. He turned to Jazmine, eyebrow raised and eyes mixed with mirth and incredulity. "And you don't think that's college worthy?" It was Jazmine's turn to be silent and aloof. "You got in by merit Jazmine. You have a lot of extra curricular activities: volunteering, protesting, cheerleading, tennis. Who were your references?"

"My coach, Mr. Uberwitz, and Mr. Wuncler Senior."

"Jazmine."

"What? He owed me! I thought-"

"Are you listening to yourself? Wuncler I? Your references alone could have gotten you in the university. A lot of people who apply get too caught up in grades that they become meager and limited. They see tens if not hundreds of thousands of people with perfect grades, it takes more than that to be accepted. It's not like you flunked out. I'd say you're about a B average student."

Jazmine wiped her eyes. "Y-you really think I got in by merit?"

"Yeah."

"Honestly?"

"I don't lie to you," Huey said flatly.

Jazmine beamed. She hugged him and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, I'm sorry I'm such a drama queen. I guess I'll go! ...you know it's still not too late to apply."

"I already have a bachelor's. I'll have my second in May."

Jazmine pulled away from him. She was so sick of this. She told Huey everything, but he rarely told her anything. She still didn't know anything about his parents except that they died. Now she was finding out her boyfriend of three years has a degree, even before getting a high school diploma. Jazmine folded her arms. "Look at me." Huey was caught off guard by her tone. "You are not fair! I tell you everything! Why do I have to beg for information from you? You should have told me! I would have made you a cake or something if I knew!"

"I was bored in middle school. I didn't think it was important." She scoffed. She started to pull away, but he stopped her. "...I'm sorry."

Jazmine knew Huey hated apologizing. She knew he must have felt bad. "You may not lie to me, but not telling me things is just as bad."

"Okay, what do you want to know?"

Jazmine blushed. "Well, now I can't think. I don't know! Should I ask about what I know I don't know or try for an unknown unknown..."

"What?"

"Because I know I don't know some things, but there are also things that I don't know I don't know. Oh! I know. What's next in your tertiary education? Your masters?"

"Actually, I was thinking about law school. Immigration law? Civil defense? Who knows."

Jazmine froze. She remember months ago when she suggested he study law. She told him that she always imagined him as a lawyer. Knowing that he listened to her and looked into her suggestion made her heart quicken. Even when she didn't validate herself, he did. This was the love of her life. She kissed Huey. He kissed back. Jazmine climbed on his lap and laced her fingers through his fro. Huey moaned and moved the chair to find the drawer where he kept his condoms. A fleeting thought went through Jazmine. They weren't going to the same school. After high school where would they be? College and law school would put a hold on this relationship. They would either be long distance or end things. She didn't want to think of that. Their relationship was maturing and getting better. Jazmine wasn't sure she was ready not to have Huey by her side everyday. Maybe she didn't have to; if he didn't reach for protection and she stopped taking her pills, they could make a family. She'd be Huey's wife and the mother of his children like she always dreamed. She could stay home while he went to school and supported them. Maybe the first few years would be rough, but they'd be together right? Jazmine knew better than to say what she was thinking out loud. It wasn't grounded or logical; Huey was always those things. This is why she needed him. Or maybe this is why she needed to get away. She needed to be the main character of her own life.

She was too weak to end things though.

Jazmine looked at the time and tapped her pencil lightly. She'd never been more anxious in her life! She hadn't heard a single thing her teacher said. Prom was tonight. For women, today was an optional half day. Usually Jazmine would skip when she felt the need, but she was taking school more serious. She had so much to do to get ready. She spent the night at Tanzania's house. She washed her hair yesterday; Solene, Zany, and Jazmine took turns using perm rods to curl her hair. The last time she did it herself it was a mess. Now she had hundreds of perm rods weighing on her head. Luckily she had her hair wrapped. She spent hours making it look professional. She looked at Nigerian YouTubers for help; she was happy she could find the cloth they used in Baltimore. She'd gotten looks for her rods, but luckily nobody took a picture and shamed her online. Jazmine was grateful to be in the age of technology, but she didn't feel like Facebook drama again.

Her classmates were giving her weird looks. They'd never seen such large hair before. They'd also never seen an African headdress in person. It was orange and gold. Jazmine didn't need to wear anything flashy to feel like a model today. All eyes were on her. She wore black leggings, a black spaghetti strapped shirt, black boots, and Huey's coat. Jazmine smiled. It smelled it like him. She'd give him his coat back when this class ended. She'd been so absorbed in looking pretty that she didn't dress for Maryland in March. Her prom dress wasn't the best for tonight's thirty degree weather, but she planned on dancing all night. It didn't matter.

As soon as the bell rang, she tossed Huey his coat and dragged Tanzania out off her class. They grabbed lunch, picked up their mothers, and went to get their nails done. Solene and Sarah were cordial. The reservations from adulthood prevented them from being fast friends like their daughters. Jazmine picked a bright happy yellow, while Tanzania chose nude colors. Jazmine beamed. "Did you hear Riley was coming? I don't get how he's been invited since his freshman year! Last year it was Jennifer Phillips, now it's Tara Hizenborough. What do they see in him?"

"Dat's 'cause you tink of him as a little brother. Nobody else does. 'e's fine. Ya typical light skinned playboy though, so no thank you."

Jazmine looked at Tanzania perplexed. "Because he's light skinned? Your boyfriend's Asian."

"No, 'cause he's a ho!"

Jazmine burst into laughter. "Yeah, he does get around. Tara Hizenborough asked him out. You know, the violinist?"

"Oh poor girl; I like Tara. Riley Freeman is going ta break her heart. Who do you think Caesar is taking?"

Jazmine shrugged. "I don't know, but I want to know. Especially if she become his girlfriend. Our unit is close. I wonder what she'll look like."

"'iro told me she's a Becky. Is it weird I'm lowkey jealous? Actually more like bitter. I guess I know why he never made a move. I really need to get over those Facebook posts." Zany shook her head. "Anyway, tonight, I gwan be so sexy. I got dis red dress, it stops here, then flares. It's backless. And my shoes..."

"Yaassss Zany, yes to all of that!" The girls giggled.

After the salon they went to the Dubois home to get ready. The girls and their mothers moved as expeditious as possible. Occasional cameras got in the way. Rags to One Bitch needed all the material they could get. Jazmine invited Riley, Caesar, and their dates so they could all leave together. The show was covering the limo. Tanzania didn't seem happy about that, but Jazmine told her it would be fine. They didn't seem bothered by the fact that the teens were dressing. Jazmine was sure they recorded every moment of Solene taping Zany's breasts so she could go braless. Jazmine just stuck with a strapless bra. Tara Hizenborough showed up. She was wearing a pink princess ball gown. She had gorgeous brown hair and sparkling blue eyes, her hair is side swept and curled. She looked excited and in love.

"Hi Jazmine. Hi Zany."

"Aww, you look so beautiful!" Jazmine sent her air kisses.

Tara blushed. "Do you think Riley will like it? He didn't seem to really be listening when I told him what I was wearing."

Jazmine and Tanzania looked at each other. The Martiniquai teen gave the brunette some encouragement. "'e'll love it!" Zany started putting on stockings. "Mama, Mrs. Dubois, I think we can do the rest. Is 'iro and 'uey downstairs?"

"So what you're trying to say is that you're kicking us out?" Sarah playfully tapped her on her nose.

Zany laughed. "Yes."

"Well alright. Just call if you need us."

"We will!" Tanzania looked at the camera. "You too."

Jazmine waited for the cameraman to leave. "I want to see your dress!"

"We can show them together."

"Okay. ...I thought you said stockings weren't functional."

"Well I was wrong. Stockings are very functionally." Tanzania laid back. "Look at my legs."

"They're covering your pretty toenails. I don't think it's worth it."

Tanzania straightened her underwear in the mirror. "Hiro is Japanese. Trust me, they have a function."

Jazmine practically straddled her. "I want details."

"You'll get them tomorrow." Tanzania said slyly. "Hiro's getting lucky."

Tara was surprised. "You mean you two haven't done it yet?!"

"We only been together four months. I still tink it's really early, but it's prom. I love 'im and he's so hot. ...it'll be my first time."

Jazmine giggled. "I knew you were a virgin."

"Oh shut up!"

Tara stared at the half naked Tanzania. "If I looked like you, I think I would have lost my virginity at eleven."

"..."

"..."

"Was that weird?" Tara asked. "I didn't mean it racially. I swear I don't even see race! Riley's a horndog, but Jazmine and Huey are so chaste! I know all black people aren't hypersexual."

Jazmine choked a little. She couldn't think of any point of celibacy after having sex with Huey that lasted more than a week. "It's okay. Let's just get dressed."

Tara helped Jazmine lace up her dress, then zipped Tanzania's dress. Both black teens saved their hair for last. Tanzania combed her blown out hair with a wide tooth comb. She didn't do anything special to it, other than make it shine. She helped Jazmine take out her rollers and style her curls. The green eyed teen felt like crying. It actually looked like the tutorial. Tanzania looked at it with envy; Jazmine's side swept updo was hair goals. She started to regret not asking for curls. Tanzania slipped on her shoes and looked at her friends. Jazmine and Tara had the similar hairstyles, but their differing textures made them look a lot less homogeneous. Tanzania couldn't wait to have both styles in the future. She pulled them in the mirror. "We're perfect."

Meanwhile...

Huey was bored waiting on Jazmine. He didn't want to go. He wasn't even dressed for it; he was in jeans. Besides, the girls were taking forever. Huey turned to Hiro. He looked very uncomfortable. Thugnificient and the entire Lethal Interjection crew were staring him down and berating him. Caesar was glad it wasn't him. "Aren't you the DJ?"

"So you mean this little nigga's got responsibilities he neglecting?" Thugnificient asked incredulously. "And this trifflin nigga think he's gon take my baby out anywhere?! Oh hell nah."

"Yeah fuck you yellow nigga."

"Get ta steppin'"

Hiro ignored them. Zany already warned him about her father and uncles. He wondered how much of this was serious and how much was for the show. "I made the playlist ahead of time. I can play it no matter my location. I had a feeling I'd be late."

Flonominal grew offended. "Why cause we black? Man this little nigga pushin it. He a disrespectful nigga. I don' like it."

"Leave Tanzanie's boyfriend alone, Otis. Je suis désolé. Pardonne à mon mari et à ses amis."

Hiro had no idea what she was saying. He assumed she was being polite. Solene was usually passive aggressive or actively aggressive in English. "Thank you Mrs. Jenkins."

A cameraman announced they were ready. Rags to One Bitch had recorded their private conversation without remorse. They were going to edit the footage to make it seem like there was a love triangle. Everyone looked to the stairs. Tara Hizenborough came down first. Her mother took pictures. The love struck team looked for her date. She frowned. "Riley, you're wearing red."

Riley was wearing a red tuxedo jacket with black dress pants. Black and red, he didn't match Tara at all. He didn't even bother. "You knew I was gon' do this. You mad?"

Tara shook her head. "No, you look great. I just thought we could match... Next time I'll let you pick the color and I'll match you."

"Bet."

Riley took pictures with his date, but he monopolized the picture. "You should model! I'm going to send some of these to California."

"I hear you." Riley wasn't listening.

Huey and Caesar shared a look. Their moment of disgust was broken by Tanzania's descension. Hiro stood up; he'd dropped everything, his phone, the flowers he'd bought her, his jaw. Tanzania wore a scarlet red, hi low dress that was backless and clung to her curves. She had bold smokey black makeup and four inch diamond heels. The only jewelry she had on were silver studs and an armlet. Butterflies jumbled her stomach. He was wearing a scarlet red suit and a black dress shirt. His shoes were white though. "Hi Hiro."

"Hey yourself." He looked at her again. "Wow, you look..."

"You look so pretty, Tanzanie! Just like mommy!" Isadora gave her sister a hug. Otis didn't say anything. He just wrapped her in a hug. Flonominal, Leonard, and Macktastic joined. "Daddy, you're squishing us!" Otis laughed and eventually let go.

Hiro couldn't stop staring at his girlfriend. She'd always been beautiful, but today she looked perfect, like a celebrity. Tanzania liked the attention she was getting; she grew daring. "私はあなたが服を脱ぎたい。" Hiro looked at her with amusement and lust. "I butchered that, didn't I?"

"You did." Huey answered for Hiro. She was trying to say I want you to take it off. She wasn't being as sexy as she thought.

Zany rolled her eyes. "Don't ruin this moment for me Huey Freeman!"

"You ruined it on your own. Not something I would have said out loud. Stop using Google Translate, Tanzanie."

"Va te faire enculer! You understand that?!" Of course he did. Huey knew what go fuck yourself meant in seven languages.

Solene swatted her daughter. "Tanzanie!"

Thugnificient didn't like the exchange. "Alright, ain't nobody speaking nothing but English for the rest of the night! Now let's take these damn pictures. Find one and put it on the gram for Rags to One Bitch."

Sarah got the attention back to the stairs. "Last, but not least, my beautiful daughter Jazmine!"

Jazmine looked down at all of her friends and family. Their eyes were on her. She felt like a princess walking down the stairs. She wished she could see herself through their eyes. What did they see? Jazmine was wearing silver eye liner, peach eye shadow and peach lip gloss. Her curls and ocean blue cocktail dress bounced as she walked down the stairs. She was so glad she opted for sandy brown flats. She could dance all night. She met Huey's eyes and looked away. She thought if she looked at him or touched him, she'd melt. Unfortunately Tom ruined her high. "Oh no, your hair got thick. Don't worry, I'm sure there's still time to straighten it like Tara and Tanzania's."

Jazmine grew so red, she matched Riley, Hiro, and Tanzania. "It's time to go." Caesar said trying to break the tension.

"But we haven't even gotten pictures!" Sarah frowned. "It doesn't look that bad Jazmine. I'm sure the next time it'll be perfect."

"It's perfect now!" Jazmine screamed. "Forget it! I don't even want to go anymore!" The group tried to get Jazmine to change her mind. Her parents apologized. "No, I'm not going! I'm going to bed."

Jazmine stomped to her room and slammed the door. The Dubois looked at their guest. Everyone was stunned. Sarah was perplexed. "I don't know what's gotten into her. It's just hair."

Huey looked at Tom. There were many racial slur swarming that he wanted to call the man. He never expected Sarah to understand so his problem was with Tom. "It's not just hair."

Jazmine, sneak out. -Huey Freeman

Jazmine ended up meeting Huey in front of his house. To his surprise, she didn't change. He didn't say anything. He grabbed her by her slender waist and pulled her in for a kiss. "You really don't want to go?"

"No. I want to eat, talk, and dance. I want to be called beautiful. I don't need to go to prom for that. I just need you."

Huey nodded. He was fine with that. "We can get a head start to the beach."

Jazmine got in the passenger's side while Huey drove them to their destination. Jazmine looked at her phone. Tanzania uploaded on Snapchat so Jazmine could see what she was missing. The first snap she got was Caesar posed with a short, medium-complected, black girl. The girl's hair was braided and curled; she was virtually hidden behind her braces, large glasses, and Caesar's much larger frame. They were wearing gold. They looked like royalty. Tanzania's caption said HER NAME IS REBECCA JAMES! Jazmine laughed out loud. "She's black! Caesar's date is a black girl named Rebecca."

"Fuck that nigga. Taking a Becky... He's not funny." Huey didn't want to admit it was pretty good. "Send this to him. Good job on your date, but-"

"I'm not helping you do this yo mama so fat... yo mama so ugly thing. It's so mean."

"Fine." By the time they made it to the hotel, Jazmine watched the AMBW couple dance to Wild Thoughts, Push It, Foreign, pick up the phone, and Close To You. Jazmine started to regret not going. It could have been her and Huey grinding together. She loved Trey Songz and DJ Khaled's music. They only had three months left. She needed to be making as many memories as she could. She wasn't blind anymore. They would be separating. She didn't know if she could take it. "You okay?" He didn't have to be an empath to sense her distraught and melancholy.

"They look really in love."

Huey nodded. "They do." Huey checked them into their room. Jazmine sat on the bed and turned the TV to CNN. She was somewhat paying attention. There wasn't anything new: Trump antics, cop shooting, Beyonce's pregnancy. Huey sat beside her with the same level of mid-interest. "You really did a good job on your hair Jazmine. I'm surprised you haven't posted on Instagram. You even did the baby hair thing you sistas seem to love so much."

"Because it looks nice. I don't say anything when you brothers clip part of your eyebrow!"

Huey chuckled. "Brothers?"

"Brothers, brothahs, you know what I mean bro!" She nudged him playfully. He nudged her back. She straddled him and tried to push and pin him down.

He was amused by her struggle. "This is cute."

"Why are you so strong? It's like pushing marble!" Jazmine pouted. "Let me win."

Huey grabbed her and pinned her underneath him. She squeaked. "No."

"You think I like this don't you?"

"Do you?"

"I'd like it better if I were on top. So would you. You know you like when I ride you."

Huey liked when she was more aggressive. He liked knowing she wanted him; there was nothing more sexy than that. "Sure you don't want a picture? I'm gonna mess up your hair."

"Take this off." Jazmine purred. At first stripping each other was fast and erotic, but once they were nude things began to slow down. Huey entered her for the thousandth time in his life. He looked at the goosebumps dance across her body; he looked at his dick in the black condom disappear into her. She was honest to how good she felt. He knew what it took to please her. He was going to do that and more. They had a room. They didn't have to sneak around their parents and their friends would be there for hours. This night would matter. They had so few. Jazmine seemed to realize this too. Every time they made love they were closer to the end. Her eyes began to water. "Huey..." He didn't want to hear it. He knew what she was thinking. She gasped from the sensation, but then felt like crying. "I love it. God, I love it! I love you. Don't leave me Huey don't go." She wrapped her legs around his body. "I need you. I need this! Yes baby fuck me! Oh yes!" Huey couldn't take it, he slowed down. Jazmine tightened her walls, Huey groaned.

"Fuck Jazmine, what do you want me to do?"

"Stay."

"...you can't stay. You're on to bigger and better things." A tear formed fell from Huey's eye. He'd been thinking this since the moment she gave her opinion on Christmas. Jazmine had never seen him cry before. This moment became real. They were breaking up.

"Please baby, don't... Oh my God, you feel so good."

"I don't want to either. I don't want nobody else to have you, to have this. This pussy is mine." He grunted ferally. "But we have to, you know we do. I'm 'bout to cum."

"Really? Even though we're breaking up, you're going to cum?"

"Can't help it. You're outrageously hot; and I love you." Jazmine gave him a watery smile. She moved to give them more pressure. A few more thrusts, she came herself. Jazmine closed her eyes. After the euphoria she felt numb. She was single. This was the worst day of her life. This was even worse than seeing Soul Plane 2. Huey weakly kissed her. "I don't know if I've ever told you this, but you're smart and strong." He gave her another weak kiss. "You'll do well in college."

Jazmine cried. "Please, don't leave me. I'm scared. How will I know the best move? I've always had you, relationship or not, even if I didn't listen to you, I've always had you. Come with me."

"I'll be there if you need me. You can do this on your own. I love you."

"I love you too."

Jazmine woke up and looked at her phone. It was sixty degrees out. She cheered, showered quickly, and put on a large magenta shirt and short khaki shorts. Jazmine rushed out her home and to her friend Huey's house. "Hey granddaddy."

"Hello Cutie Pie. Have you eaten? Boy, get Jazmine a plate!"

Jazmine giggled. "Thank you Mr. Freeman." Jazmine looked at Huey. His face was buried in a newspaper. She smiled. She loved that he always stayed current. She was started to watch less news. On occasion she'd look at a local news app, CNN, or al Jazeera; she was nothing like Huey thought. Jazmine put jelly on her toast and crammed it into her mouth. "Hey Riley, how'd that promo go?"

"Man that shit was gay. All those women touch all over us, but they didn't even tip? Apparently we just there to advertise a product. Nigga, I'm trying to advertise me! Magazines nigga, movies and shit. That's what I want."

"Oh so now you want to be an actor now? Well you can't do it. I don't believe a damn thing you say now."

Riley didn't listen to his grandfather. His mind was already set. "Yeah, then I could be a gangsta forreal, but without all the cons like last time. Hell yeah! I'm gonna act!"

"There's a lot of gay thespians. Sure you want to go for it?" Huey asked. He didn't even look over his paper.

"That shit don't matter to me. I don't see how it's different from being around yo gay ass all the time."

"Would you invite me to an award show? Could I be your entourage?" Jazmine as deep into Riley's dream too. They saw stars.

"Only if you stay tight and right. I can't have no sloppy bitches on my side. Ow!" Huey smacked Riley for his comment. "Nigga don't you have something to post or some shit. Abusive ass..."

Huey was doing a lot more on Facebook. He graduated from his college a week ago (Jazmine made him a vegan cake). Sometimes he'd occasionally post on YouTube. He had a lot more free time. Jazmine was also becoming more independent. She spent time at practice. Then she hung out with her friends. She was also preparing for college. When he called or texted, she usually said she was cleaning or packing her room.

He was glad they stayed friends. When they broke up it seemed like a swarm of people tried to win their favor. They were out of luck. Huey wasn't interest; plus he didn't date white girls. Jazmine wasn't ready for anyone. Surprisingly they had a better relationship as friends. He finally told her about his parents and his dreams. She told him about her fears of the future and her weird crush on Tanzania's mom.

After graduation, they spent an obligated time with their friends and family before disappearing together. They didn't talk. They fell into old habits and made love all night. Throughout the summer the same thing happened. Huey was there to help move her into her dorm. Tanzania got accepted to the same school, but they lived in different dorms. Jazmine's roommate's name was Alaknanda Krishnan. She was nice, but told Jazmine she'd barely see her. She wasn't even there the first night. However, Huey was. He stayed even after Tom and Sarah left. He told her she was about to learn many things and meet many people. He even suggested that she may fall in love. Jazmine told him that was impossible. He was the love of her life. She was there to learn, nothing more. She'd return to him. Huey told her his boat to Latin America was leaving soon. He was on the No-Fly List. She promised to write him no matter where he went. They said I love you for the last time.

Jazmine woke up to find herself alone. She did not cry. Instead she got up and went to her first tertiary class.

(A/N) I wish I had given Mysterious a different last name. There's no connection between her and Thugnificent's family. The next chapter has a time jump and it's the last one.

Next Chapter: Years later... The last chapter.