In which Deandre, a proper ladies man; falls for Sienna.
⚠️ This story contains mentions of domestic violence, murder, sexual abuse and romance. Reader discretion is advised.
Imani's Education and Mentorship for Black Youth Event
Sienna
SHE WALKED INto the enormous event hall, adorned with tables and chairs in the middle of the room, the stage to the front and beautiful marble stand up tables outlining the edge of the main decor. On the left a red carpet area, complete with red velvet ropes and a photographer, the main sponsors name on the light blue back drop.
A few celebrities she recognized were taking photos, influencers doing TikTok's in one corner of the balcony and the most important people, the investors, were mingling in the middle of the room. Spread out amongst the tables were beautiful arrangements of fruit bouquets. Sienna paused as she scanned the room, impressed with the turnout.
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I LOOKED DOWN at my feet, sipping from my half empty champagne glass. I made my way to a stand up table, to get a better view of the place. These things weren't really my specialty, I was more of a behind the scenes kind of gal, planning, coordinating, decorating, that was my thing; but, I love the cause and this was my best friend's fundraiser, so of course I had to make a personalized appearance.
However the attention that usually came with these kinds of things is what turned me off from them in the first place. I liked being unknown, my peace was almost always compromised when it came to these things. I rested my now empty glass on a passing tray as I skillfully grabbed another one.
"Thank you," I nodded as the waitress went on to another table, I leaned against a table that was strategically placed near the live band that played an elegant selection of jazz, the sax player was my favorite, he had the best riffs throughout the whole set and you could tell he truly played with his heart. I enjoyed good music, especially when it's played with such class. I quietly observed the gorgeous outfits that were presented in the room. Everyone came dressed as if they were attending the VMA's or something, and I loved that for them.
"Sienna!" I heard a familiar voice call from behind me.
"Imani! You look amazing!" I gleamed as I pulled her in for a tight hug. This was her event, a fundraiser for the black youth in underserving communities who deserved great mentorship, support and a shot at quality education.
I was so honored when she first came to me about the idea, I've always believed that our children needs better role models, people who can lead them down the right path and show them that there are amazing things within their reach. So, it was to no surprise that I was all over this opportunity, hands on from the very beginning and after months of preparation, the turn out was wonderful.
