Epilogue

Although Jeremy and I are still new, I feel closer to him than anyone I’ve ever dated. I’m so glad we got through our first little crisis successfully because school would be no fun without my man.

Speaking of which, I wonder if he’s going to ask me to Homecoming in a couple of weeks. It’s the first official dance of the year, and it’s always fun to see which couples end up going together. Usually I’m not into hangin’ at a dance full of folks who can’t dance and girls hating on me and my crew for being dressed the best. But now that I have Jeremy’s arm to escort me, I want to show off a little.

Don’t slip up and get caught.

“Hello,” I say, already knowing it’s Nellie again. I’m actually glad she called back. I want to share my good news with her, even if she thinks it’s a mistake.

“Jayd, guess what?” she asks, unusually excited.

“Well, hi to you too.”

“Oh, Jayd, don’t get salty. Just guess,” she says, torturing me into playing her game.

“Chicken butt,” I say.

“You’re no fun. Chance just called me and told me the Drama Club wants to seriously give the cheerleaders and athletes a run for their egos by sponsoring a Homecoming Princess candidate for our class,” she practically shouts through my cell.

“Jayd, Shahid said break’s over,” my coworker, Alonzo, calls out to me.

“Okay, Nellie. I have to get back to work. Can you speed up this guessing game?” I say, getting up from my table and brushing the golden patty flakes from my green apron.

“I’m running for Junior Class Homecoming Princess!” Chance and the Drama Club want to sponsor Nellie? Why not me?

“What? You’re not even a member of the club, and I thought you didn’t like my pot-smoking, White friends,” I say, momentarily envious and reminding her of the salt she’s been throwing at me lately.

“Jayd, I was tripping. They’re actually really cool, just a little misguided. Maybe I can bring some salvation to the crew, and that doesn’t mean I’ve changed my mind about Jeremy,” she says, now sounding like the Nellie I know and love. “But still, can you believe it? They’re sponsoring me to run as the first Black Homecoming Princess. I’m so exited I want to go shopping right now for my dress. What are you doing after work?” she asks, obviously forgetting I have homework every day of the week.

“I’m going back to Mama’s and finishing my homework for both school and Mama. Like I said before, I’m already back inside the store heading to the bathroom to wash up and finish my workday.” I can’t wait to see Jeremy after work. I love riding in his Mustang with the top down. I feel so free every time I’m with him. “And, Jeremy and I are officially a couple,” I add, not so subtly changing the subject.

“Whatever, Jayd. I already told you what I think you should do. If you don’t want to heed my advice, that’s on you,” Nellie says. “Mickey and I are going to Fox Hill’s mall later on if you want to roll. Have fun at work,” she continues. “And, Jayd, they wanted to pick you but thought you’d bring too much controversy to the campaign,” she says, even though she doesn’t have to. That’s a real friend.

“Nellie, anyone who’s the first to do something is going to bring controversy with them,” I say. “Besides, I know they’re right. Controversy’s in my blood.”