Evan: *from the table next to Kalisha* What the hell are you eating? Some sort of mud? Is that what you people eat? Do us all a favor and eat it faster because it stinks.
(friends join in his mocking laughter)
Kalisha: *mumbles* It’s just curry.
Evan: What, can you not even speak properly?
Kalisha: *looks away in shame*
Simone: *glares at her friend* What’s wrong with you, Evan?
Evan: *looks at her in disbelief* You’re defending her?
Simone: Yeah, I am. She’s just trying to eat her food. She’s not bothering you, so stop bothering her.
Evan: *scoffs* If you like her so much, why don’t you go sit with her?
Simone: *pushes herself up from the table* Fine, I will. I don’t even know why I bother sitting with you jerks now that Kate doesn’t come to this school anymore.
Evan: *mouth drops in shock*
Simone: *sits down* Hey! You’re Kalisha, right?
Kalisha: *nods shyly*
Simone: Sorry about Evan. He’s a jerk. I honestly don’t even know why I hang out with them anymore.
Kalisha: *whispers* Thank you.
Simone: I’m sorry, what did you say? I didn’t hear you.
Kalisha: *a little louder* Thank you. For standing up for me.
Simone: *beams* You’re welcome. You know what, I think we’re going to be good friends.
YOU ARE READING
Speak Out
Short StoryIn which an adopted African American girl learns to accept herself and her culture through a series of conversations over thirteen years of her life. (Entry for DiversityinLit's Black History Month)
