Chapter Phoebe
PHOEBE
I strolled through the busy yard as I admired all the work that had been put into Black Excellence Day.
The band had the campus rocking while the vendors and students displayed their talents.
This was different than all the other times this event was held.
TSU exuded so much magic beyond all the layers we peeled off on campus.
I felt a pair of hands wrap around my waist, making my smile wide. “Little Einstein, you were supposed to hit me up,” Xavier said in my ear.
He and I were supposed to experience this together, but I was so eager that I couldn’t wait. He kissed the side of my face before he slid his hand between mine as we walked to each booth.
I was excited to learn more about what the students on the campus had to offer.
Like the girl who seemed like she was straight from the projects, standing here with information about a nonprofit she started to help low-income communities.
She explained how she was an advocate for the people.
Then we approached your typical nerd, who you might think knows it all, but he was showing off his new clothing line, which he felt was affordable for those who want high-quality clothing at lower prices than designer brands.
Then we had the hood nigga. He stood there teaching other students about equity, financial freedom, and ways to shape themselves in corporate America.
Draped in his Chi Kappa Chi attire, he smiled brightly, and although finances weren’t his major, you couldn’t tell.
Xavier leaned in and dapped him up. “I see you, gang,” he said to Dio.
Dio ran his hand over his waves. “I figured, why not. Spring semester owes a nigga nothing, but I owe it everything. Just because our lives are filled with trouble, it doesn’t mean we forget why we are all here. The trials are what make us excellent, right?”
My attention was pulled away when the band started playing something that told me Blue Reign was about to show their ass.
I turned to see the crowd starting to surround them.
They walked in place, smiling at everyone.
Alyse stood in the front, owning her place on the team.
Suddenly, the beat dropped, and Blue Reign went crazy.
I smiled as Paige came over toward me, then Samara.
We hyped Alyse up because that is what friends do.
Summer was near, and I knew we were all going to go our separate ways, especially with Samara traveling abroad and Paige graduating in a few days.
I just hoped that we could all remain friends not only beyond the Zoo but also on campus.
Black women who found solace in each other were a bond I didn’t want to be broken.