Pretty for a Dark Girl

1

Before I begin I just want to start by giving a little backstory of how I got the idea of writing this story. It came to me in my African American Literature class. I realized how real and prevalent colorism is and I know this is a topic a lot of people can relate to. I won't make the story about racism/colorism entirely but it will be seen in the story and it will play a role in the characters' lives. I also want everyone to know you are all beautiful in many different ways and don't let anyone tell you otherwise!

Iasia Porter, the main female character, is above and played by Ryan Destiny.

With that being said, enjoy.

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Iasia

I flat ironed the last section of my hair before unplugging it and cleaning my products off of the counter. I sang along loudly to the song blasting from my speaker. It was Losing by H.E.R.

You only show me love when it comes to the music it's like

When I feel lonely that's when you start acting choosy.

I don't wanna keep playin' this game 'cause I feel like I'm losin'

After getting my bag together, I sat in my chair at my vanity and looked into the mirror and spoke aloud to my reflection.

"I am beautiful. I am strong. I am intelligent. I am--"

"Iasia Latrece Porter, hurry up before you're late!" my mom yelled, cutting me off.

I sighed before responding. "Coming!"

I took one last look in the mirror before grabbing everything I'd need for the day and going to the kitchen.

"Your keys are on the counter. I didn't have time to make a breakfast or lunch so here's some cash." my mom said as she handed me $30.

I shoved the cash in my back pocket and kissed her on the cheek before saying goodbye. I grabbed my keys and ran to my car.

It was a white 2007 Nissan Altima. Nothing too fancy but I loved it. It got me from point A to point B and that's all I could ask for really.

I plugged my phone up to the AUX and pulled away from my house in the direction of the nearest Dunkin Donuts.

I ordered my usual, a small French Vanilla iced coffee and a chocolate glazed donut, and ordered another for my best friend, Naomi. I paid and then headed to school. I listened to more songs by H.E.R. before puling into the school's student lot.

After putting the car in park and turning it off, I sat in the driver's seat for a moment, checking notifications on my phone. I saw two messages, one from my mom and one from Naomi.

Mom: don't forget to turn the alarm off when you get home. love you

Naomi: meet at my locker. i got some tea for youuuuuu

I shook my head before grabbing everything I needed. Naomi always had some "tea" and I was always down to listen.

I walked into the main entrance doors and bumped into a girl, causing some of her things to fall.

"Oh, I'm sorry." I spoke to her.

"No, it's okay. I should look where I'm going. It's just hard trying to get around such a big school. I'm Olivia." she picked up her papers quickly and then held out her hand for me to shake.

"Iasia." I shook her hand. She was a small girl, I assumed a freshman. She had pale white skin and a few freckles, green eyes, and long brown hair that was thrown into a messy bun.