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dreaminginthedeepsouth · 5 months ago

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LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

June 27, 2024

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

JUN 28, 2024

Tonight was the first debate between President Joe Biden and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, and by far the most striking thing about the debate was the overwhelming focus among pundits immediately afterward about Biden’s appearance and soft, hoarse voice as he rattled off statistics and events. Virtually unmentioned was the fact that Trump lied and rambled incoherently, ignored questions to say whatever he wanted; refused to acknowledge the events of January 6, 2021; and refused to commit to accepting the result of the 2024 presidential election, finally saying he would accept it only if it met his standards for fairness.

Immediately after the debate, there were calls for Biden to drop out of the race, but aside from the fact that the only time a presidential candidate has ever done that—in 1968—it threw the race into utter confusion and the president’s party lost, Biden needed to demonstrate that his mental capacity is strong in order to push back on the Republicans’ insistence that he is incapable of being president. That, he did, thoroughly. Biden began with a weak start but hit his stride as the evening wore on. Indeed, he covered his bases too thoroughly, listing the many accomplishments of his administration in such a hurry that he was sometimes hard to understand.

In contrast, Trump came out strong but faded and became less coherent over time. His entire performance was either lies or rambling non-sequiturs. He lied so incessantly throughout the evening that it took CNN fact-checker Daniel Dale almost three minutes, speaking quickly, to get through the list.

Trump said that some Democratic states allow people to execute babies after they’re born and that every legal scholar wanted Roe v. Wade overturned—both fantastical lies. He said that the deficit is at its highest level ever and that the U.S. trade deficit is at its highest ever: both of those things happened during his administration. He lied that there were no terrorist attacks during his presidency; there were many. He said that Biden wants to quadruple people’s taxes—this is “pure fiction,” according to Dale—and lied that his tax cuts paid for themselves; they have, in fact, added trillions of dollars to the national debt.

Dale went on: Trump lied that the U.S. has provided more aid to Ukraine than Europe has when it’s the other way around, and he was off by close to $100 billion when he named the amount the U.S. has provided to Ukraine. He was off by millions when he talked about how many migrants have crossed the border under Biden, and falsely claimed that some of Biden’s policies—like funding historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and reducing the price of insulin to $35 a month—were his own accomplishments.

There is no point in going on, because virtually everything he said was a lie. As Jake Lahut of the Daily Beast recorded, he also was all over the map. “On January 6,” Trump said, “we had a great border.” To explain how he would combat opioid addiction, he veered off into talking points about immigration and said his administration “bought the best dog.” He boasted about acing a cognitive test and that he had just recently won two golf club tournaments without mentioning that they were at his own golf courses. “To do that, you have to be quite smart and you have to be able to hit the ball a long way,” he said. “I can do it.”

As Lahut recorded, Trump said this: “Clean water and air. We had it. We had the H2O best numbers ever, and we were using all forms of energy during my 4 years. Best environmental numbers ever, they gave me the statistic [sic.] before I walked on stage actually.”

Trump also directly accused Biden of his own failings and claimed Biden’s own strengths, saying, for example, that Biden, who has enacted the most sweeping legislation of any president since at least Lyndon Johnson, couldn’t get anything done while he, who accomplished only tax cuts, was more effective. He responded to the calling out of his own criminal convictions by saying that Biden “could be a convicted felon,” and falsely stating: “This man is a criminal.” And, repeatedly, Trump called America a “failing nation” and described it as a hellscape.

It went on and on, and that was the point. This was not a debate. It was Trump using a technique that actually has a formal name, the Gish gallop, although I suspect he comes by it naturally. It’s a rhetorical technique in which someone throws out a fast string of lies, non-sequiturs, and specious arguments, so many that it is impossible to fact-check or rebut them in the amount of time it took to say them. Trying to figure out how to respond makes the opponent look confused, because they don’t know where to start grappling with the flood that has just hit them.

It is a form of gaslighting, and it is especially effective on someone with a stutter, as Biden has. It is similar to what Trump did to Biden during a debate in 2020. In that case, though, the lack of muting on the mics left Biden simply saying: “Will you shut up, man?” a comment that resonated with the audience. Giving Biden the enforced space to answer by killing the mic of the person not speaking tonight actually made the technique more effective.

There are ways to combat the Gish gallop—by calling it out for what it is, among other ways—but Biden retreated to trying to give the three pieces of evidence that established his own credentials on the point at hand. His command of those points was notable, but the difference between how he sounded at the debate and how he sounded on stage at a rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, just an hour afterward suggested that the technique worked on him.

That’s not ideal, but as Monique Pressley put it, “The proof of Biden’s ability to run the country is the fact that he is running it. Successfully. Not a debate performance against a pathological lying sociopath.”

A much bigger deal is what it says that the television media and pundits so completely bought into Trump’s performance. They appear to have accepted Trump’s framing of the event—that he is dominant—so fully that the fact Trump unleashed a flood of lies and non-sequiturs simply didn’t register. And, since the format established that the CNN journalists running the debate did not challenge anything either candidate said, and Dale’s fact-checking spot came long after the debate ended, the takeaway of the event was a focus on Biden’s age rather than on Trump’s inability to tell the truth or form a coherent thought.

At the end of the evening, pundits were calling not for Trump—a man liable for sexual assault and business fraud, convicted of 34 felonies, under three other indictments, who lied pathologically—to step down, but for Biden to step down…because he looked and sounded old. At 81, Biden is indeed old, but that does not distinguish him much from Trump, who is 78 and whose inability to answer a question should raise concerns about his mental acuity.

About the effect of tonight’s events, former Republican operative Stuart Stevens warned: “Don’t day trade politics. It’s a sucker’s game. A guy from Queens out on bail bragged about overturning Roe v. Wade, said in public he didn’t have sex with a porn star, defended tax cuts for billionaires, defended Jan. 6th. and called America the worst country in the world. That guy isn’t going to win this race.”

Trump will clearly have pleased his base tonight, but Stevens is right to urge people to take a longer view. It’s not clear whether Trump or Biden picked up or lost votes; different polls gave the win to each, and it’s far too early to know how that will shake out over time.

Of far more lasting importance than this one night is the clear evidence that stage performance has trumped substance in political coverage in our era. Nine years after Trump launched his first campaign, the media continues to let him call the shots.

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

#Letters From An american #Heather Cox Richarson #political #election 2024 #Atlanta debate #political debate

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evolvedclown · 14 days ago

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rant about growing up black in a white community. kinda. not too heavy.

i wish i was able to grow up in a black community. i’ve lived with the white side of my family for my entire life. white neighborhood, white school, in a pretty red area of pa. i hated the fact that i was black until i was 16-17 and got on tiktok and started following black creators. and i saw them loving themselves BEACUSE they were black. their hair, features, skin. they loved it.

so i started too. it makes my family uncomfortable bc they’re so used to never talking about race but then there’s me who calls them out when they say racist shit. so now they don’t talk to me about anything that isn’t surface level.

at 24. im still in a very white/right leaning community and it gets harder and harder to find people who are at least decent people. its actually why i dont have irl friends.

i wish i was able to grow up within black culture. i feel like such a huge part of myself is missing bc, whenever i see those slide shows of “growing up black” or “essentials at a black christmas.” or watching friend groups of all poc. or videos of hbcu’s. it just makes me sad bc i never got to be a happy little black kid being taught how to take care of my hair and being told that it’s ok to get darker in the summer (which i know there’s a lot of colorism in the community).

i didn’t grow up to be a black teen that wore protective styles and made up freestyles during lunch. and i know im romanticizing a bit but the longing for it is still there.

i feel like i fake it everytime i try to embrace my blackness. like im putting on a costume bc im started embracing this part of myself, my entire self, so late in my childhood that i still don’t feel like i belong.

i love being black. loving myself through my blackness has helped me with my confidence and self worth so much. but i just feel like i missed out in my child hood.

#black #black culture #black pride #white people smh #mixed kid problems 😝

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babyboiboyega · 2 years ago

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The Study Room Pt. 7 (Shuri x Black!Fem!Reader)

HBCU!Shuri x Black!Fem!Reader

Word Count: 6.7k

Content: minor angst, mention of character death, mention of illness, but fluff

Babyboiboyega’s Marvel Masterlist

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A/N: IT’S HERE! I’M ON TIME (DONT LOOK AT THE TIME), HERE YALL GO LMAO GO GO GO

Recap:

If she didn’t want you to know her real thoughts right now, then you’d wait until she was ready. You had no problem waiting- not when it came to Shuri.

Shuri could feel you relax more into her as the minutes went by until you were breathing deeply and evenly. She didn’t have to look to know that you were fast asleep.

As she let her own eyes close, she couldn’t help but pull you closer. The feeling of you breathing, warm, and alive in her arms would be enough to keep the nightmare at bay; at least she hoped so. She’d certainly find out sooner or later, but for right now, she enjoyed the peace and reassurance that your presence brought her.

**********

It wasn’t the sun’s bright rays filtering into your room that woke you up the next morning; it wasn’t even the sound of soft music being played in the streets of Wakanda that woke you up; instead, it was the lack of one person’s presence that had you turning around in bed, eyes half lidded and eyebrows furrowed. The sun illuminated the empty spot beside you while also warming your skin, only reminding you more of the way Shuri’s arms had been wrapped around you the night before.

With a yawn, you slowly sat up in the huge bed you still couldn’t quite wrap your head around. Your tired eyes scanned the room only to quickly come to the conclusion that Shuri was, in fact, nowhere to be found. At least not in your room.

You weren’t prepared for the small, flustered feeling that went through you at the realization. Against your own wishes, your mind immediately started going to war with itself; part of it replaying every word and actions of yours from the night before, looking for something you could have done or said, while the other part chastised you for being a little selfish.

Maybe your true feelings - feelings you had yet to confront- had leaked too much into your words last night.

“I’m just glad you’re here and that you know you can come to me for anything.” Had that been too much? Too sentimental? You had simply been speaking the truth, wanting her to know that you were there- especially in the face of her distraction from something you still had no clue about.

Or, wait…was that it? What if she felt as if she couldn’t come to you for anything? You quite literally couldn’t imagine what she had to go through being the ruler of a country who had suffered the loss of not one, but two of their rulers in the span of a year. Add on the fact that the loss she had felt in the face of her brother and her mother’s deaths were insurmountable, yet she had been forced to carry on quickly afterwards.

How in the hell could you understand and empathize with what she had gone through?

At some point during your busy thoughts, you slipped out of bed. Your morning routine was done with little acknowledgement, letting your limbs do what they were accustomed to doing: showering, washing your face, brushing your teeth, getting dressed. In the midst of all of these actions, your mind still ran on overdrive. Except this time, the other part of your brain, the one adamant on calling you selfish, took over.

Did you forget that she’s the Queen? She’s the actual Queen of the country you’re currently in; maybe she had royal duties or something important to do- something more important than laying in bed all day with you. You’re already taking up one of the bedrooms in the palace; you want her to spend every second of every waking day with you?

Of course you didn’t expect her to spend all of her time with you, as she had already given up a lot of it in order to keep you safe; but it wasn’t hard to admit to yourself that you immensely enjoyed her presence…almost a little too much for you to claim that you two were just ‘close friends’, and it seemed to you that she also enjoyed your presence. You were a little…hesitant, nervous even, to apply any other word except ‘friends’ to you and Shuri…but the events and actions that had taken place between you two almost made it easy to do exactly that.

She has enough on her plate. Keeping you safe, running a country, her education.

The thought made you pause in your actions of making the bed, your eyes lingering reflexively on the spot she had been in. It was true; she did have a lot on her plate. But you didn’t know if you could just ignore the bond you two had created- the same bond that definitely crossed the line that two friends usually stayed behind.

“Miss Y/L/N, the General wishes to speak with you. She is currently outside of your room.”

If anything could have broken you out of your thoughts, it was the sudden sound of Shuri’s AI coming from seemingly nowhere and everywhere at the same time. You couldn’t help glancing around quickly before replying, as if the voice had a body to match it.

“Uh, thank you…Griot.”

“You are most welcome.”

Maybe the earlier statement was a lie, because if there was anything that could have truly broken you out of your reverie, it was the news that the General was not only outside of your door, but that she also wanted to speak to you.

Your steps were somehow both quick and hesitant as you approached the door, looking around as if you were a child afraid of being chastised for having a messy room despite not a single thing being out of place. A number of different concerns raced through your mind as you opened the door, coming face to face with Okoye. Her head was tilted as she regarded you, an eyebrow raised in slight suspicion. What could you have possibly done already to receive this look-

“I have been knocking for the past minute.”

Her words took a second to register and when they did, your head tilted in a manner similar to hers. Eyebrows furrowed, you wracked your brain for the memory of hearing a knock or anything similar only to come up empty. You shook your head slowly.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t hear you. I must have been in the bathroom.” Or confusing myself with contradicting thoughts that regard your queen and how I feel about her, you added internally. “Is something wrong?”

She stayed silent for just a second too long, simply looking at you. It only reminded you that she was the General for a reason, and the way she could intimidate someone with a simple look was only one of those reasons. You were perfectly and entirely fine with not being on the end of any of the other reasons.

You had just started shuffling slightly on your feet because of the silence when she decided to have mercy and break it.

“Follow me. I have something to show you.”

One thing, amongst the many, you could easily admire about Okoye was the way she could give a command while simultaneously sounding…not exactly gentle, but still showing those she spoke to respect. It was easy for someone in her position to look down on those beneath them, speaking to them as if they were a petulant child; but so far, despite being a stranger to her and her home, Okoye hasn’t made you feel…unwanted or as if you were a bother. She doesn’t exactly hide her suspicions of you, but you could understand why.

Your trust in her was enough for you to nod in understanding, quickly slipping on your shoes that sat just inside the door. Your trust, however, didn’t lessen your nervousness as you followed her words, letting the door close behind you with a soft click. You turned to her, opting to send a half-confused, half-nervous smile her way in lieu of asking questions. In response, she let out a near silent huff that could have been in annoyance or amusement before turning and once again motioning for you to follow her.

You managed to match her pace, walking not completely beside her but not completely behind her. The path she took led you past a door that was shut and had elaborate carvings in it, automatically making you assume that it was Shuri’s. Every thought you had just managed to ignore upon Okoye’s arrival seemed to rush to the front, and with a tiny headshake, you continued following the General.

Every person you passed, whether it be other Doras, scientists, doctors, or any other person working in the palace nodded in acknowledgement and respect as Okoye passed them. Most of them nodded to you as well, some of them even offering small smiles. It only reminded you that the entire time you had been in the palace, not once had you been made to believe that you were a hindrance or unwelcome.

“How’s your day been?”

Okoye turned to you at your question, her eyebrows raising slightly to show her surprise. Hell, you were pretty surprised at your own attempt to make conversation, but you had already asked it and there was no taking it back. You bit the inside of your cheek as you waited nervously for her reply. When she gave one, she seemed to be choosing her words carefully in a voice that was both strong and patient.

“My day has been okay.”

There was no surprise at all that she kept her answer short and straight to the point. It spoke perfectly to who she was, or who she presented herself to be; straightforward, not playing any games, not there for the bullshit. You couldn’t even be mad at it.

You nodded, mumbling a soft ‘that’s good’ under your breath in response. It wasn’t until she had led you to an elevator and you two had stepped in did she speak once again.

“How has your day been?”

“Good! Well, I mean, I had just woken up not too long before you had come to get me- but so far, it’s been okay!”

A noise that sounded close to a huff left her, and a quick glance over at her showed that she had the smallest grin curving the corner of her lips. Your eyes almost widened at the sight, but you managed to contain your surprise…and the small bout of pride you felt.

It was only a matter of mere seconds before the elevator doors were opening on a new floor, causing you to look out in confusion. The ride had been so smooth that you had barely even known you were moving, which wasn’t a surprising feat when it came to Wakanda’s tech.

The doors opening were followed by the sound of music that seemed to surround you as soon as you stepped out. You quickly recognized the interior of Shuri’s lab- or rather, her secondary lab. Her first and main one was located under Mount Bashenga, the beautiful towering mountain that held a panther statue on top of it. You hadn’t been to it, but your curiosity had certainly grown as Shuri described it to you during your short tour. You didn’t bother asking when you could visit; the way she described it made it obvious that the lab was one of the most important things to her and that it was a safe space. The only way you’d get there was if she invited you personally, and you were okay with that. The last thing you wanted was to encroach upon a space she deemed safe, secure, and intimate without her permission or explicit invitation.

This lab, however, had been one of the first things you had seen upon waking up. It was the same lab where you had received previous updates about you and Shuri’s mutual menace, which is what your mind immediately went to as Okoye led you further inside.

“Is there an update on Shuri’s stalker?”

Okoye shook her head silently, continuing to lead you past several engineers who were so engrossed in their work, that they didn’t bother looking up. Your eyes lingered on the projects sitting in front of each of them, knowing enough to recognize what they were using, but not knowing enough to recognize how they were using it. You were in school for biophysics, so your range of knowledge extended to knowing how to use different physiological theories and concepts in order to analyze and understand biological phenomena; the projects you walked past were the exact opposite of biophysics. They looked technological, unsurprisingly; but none of them looked done, that much you could tell.

You found yourself slowing down as you walked past, your head tilting just slightly in curiosity. They may have not looked finished, but upon closer inspection, it was obvious that each piece complimented another in some way, shape, or form. Whatever they were building was big and complex enough to need at least 5 engineers working on it at the same time.

“What are they working on-”

Your words faded upon turning around and finding that Okoye had continued walking without you only to stop in front of a set of double doors. An eyebrow was raised as she stared at you, her lips pursed slightly and an unimpressed look on her face. It was enough for you to grimace sheepishly before quickly walking over, your mouth opening to offer an apology. It quickly closed as Okoye opened the door, motioning for you to go in ahead of her.

“We will be in here.”

You had no idea what you’d be walking into once you stepped past the threshold; however, a nearly empty room save for the multiple racks of spears lining the walls and a cushioned floor was the last thing you had expected.

There weren’t any windows, but the light that filled the room seemed almost soft and natural; it did nothing to ease your nerves, though. You didn’t know whether you wanted to touch the spears in childlike wonder, or stay far away from them and voice the question that had been on your mind since being picked up from your room…so you chose the latter option.

“What exactly are we about to get into?”

Your question hung in the air as Okoye closed the doors with a resounding thud before walking over to one of the racks which held multiple spears. She set her own against the wall before turning and making her way to the middle of the room and the padded floor.

The longer you stood there, the more pieces your brain connected, and soon you were able to answer your own question. Why else would Okoye, the incredibly skilled, incredibly badass General of the Wakandan army bring you to a room that looked close to a training room? And why else would she be motioning for you to join her?

Your steps were slow as you walked towards her, stepping onto the padded area. It was soft enough for your feet to leave small impressions, but firm enough that you knew should you be slammed into it, you’d have bruises and aches for at least a day.

“General Okoye…can I ask why we’re here-”

“Tell me, Miss Y/L/N, have you ever been in a physical confrontation?”

You had already held suspicions about the reason behind you two being here, but her question only confirmed them. Fully expecting her to laugh at the fight you had been in, especially when compared to the battles she had been in, you let out a breath before explaining.

“I…fought this girl who was bullying my friend. Of course, it was nothing compared to the fights I’m sure you’ve been in, but I got suspended for a few days.”

Okoye looked incredibly unimpressed at your story; so much so that you felt the need to clarify and further explain yourself. The more you spoke, the more vivid the memory became. You weren’t one to hold grudges, but you had a sneaking suspicion that if you were to ever see that girl again, you’d probably say something so incredibly out of pocket.

“My friend, Alice, was in a wheelchair, and this girl who was new, Lilliana McMillan,” the girl’s name left your mouth with an air of annoyance, “kept messing with her. She’d stick things into her wheels, move desks and other objects just to make it harder for Alice to move around. Just being an entire bitch to one of the nicest people in the school.”

Okoye’s eyebrows raised slightly at your choice of words, though she didn’t comment; she’d heard worse from Shuri. Hell, she had said worse herself.

“I wanted to fight her much sooner, but Alice kept telling me that it wasn’t worth it. ‘Take the high road’, she’d say. ‘She’s not worth it’...and I listened.”

A short, unamused laugh left your mouth as you shook your head. Even after years of being out of high school, you could still feel the anger from that day as if it were yesterday.

“But then, Lilliana pushed Alice so hard one day that her chair tipped sideways. Alice’s elbow was busted up and her chair- a wheelchair that cost her family thousands of dollars- broke. All because Lilliana Mc-fucking-Millan thought it was cool to pick on a person who was too nice to fight back.”

As you explained the events of that day, Okoye’s face changed from being impassive to what looked like a barely perceptible look of understanding. You didn’t know Okoye well, or really at all, but you could tell that she didn’t take too lightly to bullies.

“As soon as I walked around the corner and saw Alice on the ground, crying, with Lilliana’s flat footed ass standing over her, I saw red. I checked on Alice first, made sure she was okay…then I turned to Lilliana…and I just went in.”

You shrugged, taking a deep breath. Looking back, you remembered the events leading up to the fight, and the events following the fight. The fight itself was just a blur of anger, thrown fists and feet, and handfuls of hair.

“It was the first real, and worst, fist fight I’ve been in.”

Okoye nodded in acknowledgement, crossing her arms and looking at you with an expression you couldn’t place. You’d liken it to being inspected for a job or even being appraised to see if you’d be able to do something. The regret at telling her the story of the fight started to build in your body, but just like those years ago, you couldn’t find a hint of regret at your actions back then.

That small bit of regret grew as Okoye walked forward, still looking at you peculiarly; but it disappeared completely at her next words.

“Did you win?”

You couldn’t stop the self satisfied smile from appearing on your face as you nodded, and admittedly, you felt a pang of pride as the corner of Okoye’s mouth twitched up slightly.

“I did. Alice got on me about it, though. I think she was more upset at the fact that I had busted my wrist up.” You shrugged, glancing at the wrist that you had worn a cast on for a good bit afterwards.

Either you were trippin’, or there was actually a proud look on her face as you looked back at her.

“Good,” but then she stepped back, her usual stoicness returning, “but that was a high school fight. You’re not in high school anymore, and now you have an unnamed , faceless person pursuing you who has already made one attempt on your life.”

Her statement was rather obvious, yet it still made your smile drop quickly. There was nothing quite like being reminded that if you weren’t in Wakanda, you’d probably be dead.

“And that is precisely why we are here, today. After all of this is over, these skills will still come in handy as basic self defense.”

She walked towards you, motioning for you to presumably get into a fighting stance. You paused, your mind momentarily going blank as the thoughts of simultaneously embarrassing yourself and looking like a fool in front of Okoye ran through it.

You weren’t in the MMA by any means, but you had always felt that if need be, you’d be able to defend yourself; the whole fight or flight thing. That was until you got to Wakanda and witnessed the Dora Milaje and how lethal they were firsthand.

With a quick prayer to whoever was listening, you raised your fists and situated your feet in a position you hoped was right…only for Okoye’s eyes to furrow as she tilted her head.

“What in Bast’s name are you doing?”

You looked quizzically at your hands, growing confused at the exasperated look on her face. Hands covering your face, thumb on the outside of your fingers, thumbs folded down, feet parted, knees bent…what were you missing?

The confusion must have been obvious on your face, as Okoye held back a sigh before copying you, holding her arms up and blocking her face. With one closed fist, she motioned toward you again.

“Throw a punch.”

…

“You want me to punch you?”

She had the nerve to let out a quick laugh at your words, her head shaking quickly. She shuffled closer to you and almost on instinct, you shuffled backwards. Instead of stopping, she continued getting closer…and instead of stopping, you continued to back away.

“You’ll never land a punch, but I need to make sure you know how to throw one.”

Not giving yourself time to hesitate or overthink it (and maybe thinking you would catch Okoye, the General of an army, off guard), you quickly threw a punch.

One second, you’re on your feet, punching at Okoye, and the next you’re on your back. It takes a while for your brain to catch up with what happened, but when it does, your body’s reaction isn’t far behind.

All the air in your body had left as soon as you hit the ground, and it was hard as hell to draw another breath in. Once you did, though, the only thing that came out of your mouth was a drawn out groan; one that Okoye paid no heed to as she crouched beside your laid out figure. You could see her out of the corner of your eye, though you kept your eyes fixated on a detail in the ceiling in an attempt to let the room stop spinning.

“Do you know what you did wrong?”

Her voice didn’t seem mocking or sarcastic, but there was humor in it. You shut your eyes, the sudden thought that Okoye had to have started somewhere popping up in your mind. She wasn’t just born as the general of the Wakandan army, and you were pretty sure she wasn’t born a Dora, so the thought of her at one point being in your exact position was enough for you to finally open your eyes and look at her.

“You deadass?”

Your voice was still winded, but your question was exactly that: deadass. Completely serious. Because how would you know what you did wrong if you barely saw her move in the first place?

She nodded in response, her expression a mixture of seriousness and that of a teacher who got on you for not ‘applying yourself’.

“I am completely…’deadass’. What did you do wrong?”

You’d definitely be telling Shuri that you got Okoye to say the words “deadass”.

“Well, for one, I followed you in here. That was a mistake. If I would’ve known that I was just going to get thrown around like a damn rag doll- how’d you even do that, first of all? I didn’t even see you move-”

Okoye held a hand out, effectively silencing your words while also offering a hand for you to get up. You took a few more breaths, savoring them as it’d probably be the last time doing so, before grabbing her hand and letting her pull you up.

“Learning how to defend yourself is not a ‘mistake’. Shuri doesn’t seem to think so, and neither should you.”

You weren’t surprised in the least bit at learning that Shuri may have been the one to put Okoye up to this, nor were you surprised at the fact that if there was one thing Shuri would make sure you could do was defend yourself. You didn’t know whether to feel giddy at the reminder that she cared for you in some way, or like a burden because maybe she had no other choice. It was a quick callback to the thoughts you had had after just waking up, but you managed to keep them at bay. It was rather easy to do so when Okoye once again walked closer to you, your heart spiking on its own accord.

“I never said learning self defense is a ‘mistake’; I said learning self defense with you may be a mistake, as in ‘I’m not ready to get my ass handed to me multiple times today’.”

Okoye reached forward, faster than you could track, her hands latching around your wrists. On instinct, you tried to wrench your hands away, struggling only for a moment before realizing that you weren’t going anywhere unless Okoye let you.

Her eyes stared pointedly at you, waiting for you to stop struggling, and only then did she continue speaking.

“That won’t happen if you pay attention and learn what I teach you. What would Alice say? I’m sure she would appreciate you learning what is needed in order to not ‘bust your wrist up’ again.”

Her words made you stop, your eyes glancing away for a second as a quick surge of anger ran through you. It only took a second for you to remind yourself that she didn’t know that Alice had passed only earlier in the year, so you couldn’t exactly fault her for her unintentional guilt-tripping.

Feelings that you had long since come to terms with regarding your old best friend resurfaced quickly, and you tried your best to keep them from showing on your face; but this was Okoye. What the hell couldn’t she see? Might as well rip the bandaid off.

“She passed earlier this year. Osteosarcomas- bone cancer.” Okoye’s grip on your wrists slackened, her face falling in the slightest. You hurried to respond despite having a feeling that she was a person who would offer sympathies, but who wouldn’t dwell on them.

“But I’m sure she would tell you to kick my ass and to do whatever you need to do to teach me.”

The more you thought about it, the more appealing the idea of actually being able to take care of yourself became. It certainly made you feel slightly better in yourself; stronger; maybe Shuri would stop worrying so much and focus on things more important…like her own damn safety.

Okoye gave a small grin, directing your hands to a position that was better than your last one had been. Once she was satisfied, she let go and stepped back.

“Oh, I had already planned on doing that.”

You believed her, however, with a small thought that maybe…just maybe she’d go a little easy on you, seeing as you had only been in one real altercation. That couldn’t have been further from the truth, and you found out the hard way during the next few hours.

Despite Okoye’s tendency to knock your ass to the floor first and then tell you what you did wrong, you found that it was almost surprisingly getting you to learn the small things. The first things she focused on were learning your strengths and your weaknesses. It was fair to say that in this specific activity, your weaknesses outnumbered your strengths, but she was good at pointing out both.

She had her own way of commending you for doing something right, and in the beginning, it had involved her nodding her head with a look that wasn’t as exasperated. Sometimes she’d even let out a surprised ‘hmm’. It admittedly boosted your pride each time. However, as the hours passed, it was evident that the two of you grew more…agreeable being around each other. Or maybe her frustration had just gotten to a point where she didn’t bother hiding it anymore, instead, letting her more sarcastic side show.

Whatever the cause, the change in her demeanor had made your little ‘training session’ a little more bearable. You no longer felt the need to walk on eggshells around her or even hold in your comments. It had resulted in her hearing you let loose a few choice words in weird combinations spurred on by your own pain and frustration. There had even been a few times where she had mumbled a sarcastic comment under her breath in response to a question you had or if you did something wrong.

Her comments had only made her appear more…human, to you at least. It didn’t make anything weird and it didn’t make you any less enthusiastic. Regardless of this, there eventually came a time where you both could tell that you had been training enough. It became obvious to Okoye after you failed to block an easy jab that you had blocked easily an hour ago, and it became obvious to you after you fell unceremoniously to the mat as Okoye told you that you were done.

You leaned against the wall, letting your head rest back as you focused on taking deep breaths. Every breath was shaky, but they were slowly becoming more steady. Your limbs shook, even as you sat still, and the mere thought of waking up tomorrow and having to do anything made a small groan leave your mouth.

All of your ailments were completely disregarded, though, as Okoye asked a question that had your eyes snapping open.

“How exactly did you and Shuri meet?”

Your eyes trailed over to land on Okoye who busied herself with reattaching her arm cuffs that she had, thankfully, taken off before beginning. You thought over your response under the guise of still trying to catch your breath.

There truly wasn’t a reason behind being so nervous to answer her question; you two had met in one of the most mundane ways. But it was the way Okoye asked the question coupled with the look on her face as she gazed at you.

That same calculating look was in her eyes as she waited for your answer, except this time, it seemed as if she were trying to clock a potential lie that you could tell. The agreeableness from earlier hadn’t completely vanished, but it was eclipsed by an air of skepticism.

“We met in the campus library. I accidentally took her study room, and after I offered to leave, she insisted that I stay. Then she…uh…helped me with my homework.”

It almost seemed laughable; such a mundane and…normal meeting that involved the monarch of an entire country. Okoye seemed to think so as well. In fact, she seemed to think that it was a little too normal as she tilted her head slightly and narrowed her eyes. Just that quick, you felt like you were back under a microscope she was looking into.

“Did you know of her status as Queen at the time of your meeting?”

You sat up more at her question, already sensing where she was going, and instantly becoming nervous. Had any of your words or any of your actions raised suspicion with the General? Who else shared her suspicion?

Did…Shuri? Was that the reason behind her absence earlier? Was this entire ‘training session’ just a chance for Okoye to get into your mind and see if you had ulterior motives?

Who else shared her suspicion? Had you been walking around the entire time, comfortable, feeling welcomed…while simultaneously being looked into?

“I did- everyone did. As soon as she arrived on campus, everyone knew who she was. It’s hard not to recognize the Queen of Wakanda when she shows up on your campus.” You swallowed hard, willing your heart to slow down because you had nothing to be guilty of.

“What the hell is this about, Okoye? Am I a suspect?”

“Of course, you aren’t a suspect,” She spoke quickly, stepping towards you, “if I considered you a suspect, you wouldn’t be free to walk around this palace.”

There was a promise of a threat behind her words, and you believed her. Any person who dared to go after the princess wouldn’t have gotten nearly any of the same courtesy as you had received while in Wakanda.

“I am asking because I have noticed that…you two are pretty close. Closer than normal friends are. And as someone who cares about her and wants only the best for her, I feel the need to-”

Your eyes widened a comical amount as she continued speaking, the pieces clicking together in your mind and causing your face to heat up. What made it worse was that Okoye didn’t look any more comfortable, as her eyes flickered between her metal braces and your face.

“Okoye. Wait a minute, are you…giving me the talk?”

Her eyebrows furrowed as she went to speak, her mouth opening and closing for a second. You beat her to it, your words coming out rushed.

“I got it, okay? You’re protective of Shuri, that’s understandable. I haven’t known her for a very long time, but I can say that I am, too. But I promise you, you don’t have to worry about me doing anything to put her in any type of jeopardy or risk.”

You struggled to your feet, holding onto the wall for balance as you stood on shaky legs. There was no point in hiding the confused, albeit present, feelings you had for Shuri; especially not from someone who loved her as much as Okoye did.

“I want the best for Shuri as well, even if that isn’t me.” You prayed that she chalked the shakiness of your voice up to your fatigue, “And if it isn’t me, then I’ll go ahead and move on after all of this is over. But until then, I’m like you: I just want her to be safe.”

Okoye’s expression softened at your words, and you took it as a sign to keep going, no matter how much of a hole you were digging yourself into.

“She has this wild idea that it’s her responsibility to keep me safe, when in reality, this stalker is after her. I’m only an obstacle in their way to get to her- she’s their endgame, and we still don’t even know what they want with her!”

The quick laugh that left your mouth was humorless and bitter, a good representation of how you were feeling with the entire situation.

“I’ve told her that between the two of us, her safety takes priority, and I’m sure you can agree.” Okoye wordlessly nodded in agreement before you continued, “but we know how stubborn and hard-headed she can be. That’s part of the reason why I’m even trying to learn all of…this!”

Your arms raised, motioning aimlessly around the room in reference to your training.

“Maybe if I learn how to take care of myself, she’ll start to care more about her own safety.”

Okoye’s eyes seemed to take on an understanding look right before they connected with something over your shoulder. She cleared her throat and motioned to whatever was behind you, prompting you to turn around.

The universe liked to play jokes, sometimes. And sometimes, you were the butt of those jokes, because of course Shuri had to be standing in the doorway to the room after your little tirade.

Her eyebrows were scrunched together slightly and she held a bag in her hands. You froze at the sight of her, your eyes widening and your heart literally skipping a beat at the thought that she had heard…well..any of that.

“How much of that did you hear?”

Your question sounded panicked, even to your own ears, as you asked it.

“I heard enough.” You should just run out of the damn room. “General Okoye, do you mind giving us a second? I’d like to speak with Y/N.”

The worry that shot through your body was enough for you to take a deep, shaky breath. You never would have thought that this kind of nervousness would plague you, especially when it came to Shuri and having to speak with her.

She doesn’t look mad…not really.

But there was still a slight frown on her lips as Okoye nodded, quickly retrieving her spear before walking past you and towards the door Shuri stood in front of. She had the decency to stop at the door and look back at you, providing what could’ve been an encouraging nod, before stepping out and closing the door behind her.

The silence that enveloped the two of you was so heavy that you immediately wanted to break it, but doing so would open the possibility of saying something embarrassing. So with fidgety hands and a racing heart, you waited for Shuri to speak first. She did so not too long after Okoye left, walking towards where you stood in the middle of the mat.

“Do you really see yourself as some ‘obstacle’?” So she had heard that part.

Her voice was low, almost hesitant as she spoke. Her eyes didn’t leave your figure, even as yours darted around slightly.

“Maybe not an obstacle…” you trailed off, letting out a sigh as she continued to approach you. Unlike Okoye, you didn’t feel the need to move; you didn’t want to move.

“Just…not as important.”

Her frown deepened at your words and she shook her head, looking away for a second and letting out a heavy sigh.

“Y/N, we talked about this.”

Regardless of how nervous you were, you still held true to your words, believing them wholeheartedly and genuinely. No matter how nervous she made you, you’d continue to fight her about her safety.

“We did, and my thoughts are still the same.” The longer you spoke, the more steadier your words became. “I don’t think there’s anything you can do or say to change my mind.”

She stayed silent for a while, almost seeming to hold her breath as she thought something over. After a few seconds of silence, she finally faced you once again, letting out another sigh and nodding in resignation.

“There isn’t anything you can do or say to change my mind about your safety, Y/N. There never will be. We’ll both have to live with it.”

She held the bag in her hand out to you…and it honestly threw you for a loop. You had expected her to argue you up and down, again, about your safety and where it was in relation to her own…but she hadn’t. It relieved you while also making you suspicious.

It must have shown on your face because a grin curved her lips as she pushed the bag more towards you, encouraging you to take it. You took it, instantly opening it and taking a look inside. At the sight of clothes, you raised a quizzitive eyebrow and looked back at her. She instantly understood your silent question, letting out a soft laugh.

“Clothes for you to change into;” She paused, having the audacity to look slightly nervous before she continued, “I’d like to take you somewhere. Only if you’re okay with it.”

If you thought your heart had been racing at her arrival, it was nothing compared to the way it raced now. She wanted to take you somewhere?

Her nervousness paired with her request to take you somewhere had a bashful, yet excited look appearing on your face as you nodded quickly. You didn’t dare think about the implications behind her request; the last thing you wanted was to think too much into everything and then either disappoint yourself or disappoint her when the truth came to light.

But you could let yourself enjoy one night with her…right?

A/N: sorry for the wait y’all lmaoooo

BUT I hope you all enjoyed this part! Part 8 should actually be out later this week if my timing is right!

Please like, reblog, and/or comment! Y’all’s comments are the best part of my day, honestly, I love reading y’alls comments <3

Stay safe, y’all!

Tag list: @shinsousliya , @honey-teaaaaaaaa , @tchhairbandhere , @jessiap , @zane2408 , @bananasplits-world , @yellowjacketmurder , @barkbarkbo , @butterflyybabe , @bananafishok , @zestgodtj , @mitsuya-takashi , @chaoticevilbakugo , @cedeni-beanie , @shuri-my-love , @kingstormpostsshit , @sailorsolar12 , @justariellove , @angelsmist , @eriksjournal , @mermaidchansons , @nil-eena , @paisholotus , @thesecretwriterblog , @brain-of-nekoma , @7tearsofatlantis , @simp4iwaizumi , @bumlyn , @jackdrawsjunk , @http-twyla , @cedeni-beanie , @taleiakirby , @brain-of-nekoma , @borderlineacademia , @honey-teaaaaaaaa

#Shuri #shuri black panther #shuri oneshot #shuri fanfiction #Shuri x you #hbcu!shuri x reader #hbcu!shuri #hbcu!shuri oneshot #hbcu!shuri imagine #hbcu!shuri drabble #black panther #black panther fanfic #black panther x reader #black panther: wakanda forever #Wakanda forever #shuri x reader #shuri udaku #the study room

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militantinremission · 5 months ago

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The 2024 Presidential Debate: Time for New Blood?

In a word, The 1st Presidential Debate of 2024 was BRUTAL! Both Candidates took personal shots at each other; but Joe Biden- to his Credit, offered more Substance than Donald Trump. Trump avoided questions on rising Child Care Costs, Drug Overdoses, & Israel's 'War On Gaza' to name a few, but Biden wasn't able to capitalize on his lack of Policy Measures. Joe Biden came across as 'Too Old for Primetime', & appeared to be regurgitating Talking Points more than confidently articulating his Agenda for the next 4 Years. Donald Trump rambled on & embellished the truth for most of The Debate, instead of answering questions directly. BOTH had moments where they were less than honest. Trump focused on Biden's Job Performance more than articulating his Own Agenda for the next 4 Years. Joe Biden seemed more cognizant AFTER The Debate, than during it.

Donald Trump- to his Credit, was more reserved than he was in the 2020 Presidential Debates. Ironically, it was Joe Biden who initiated the insults, but Trump apparently didn't take The Bait. BOTH performances were subpar for a Presidential Candidate; I understand why Robert Kennedy Jr. was kept off that Debate Stage. NEITHER Candidate offered a Real Solution to Black Specific Issues. Instead, Both pivoted to the Reliable Standard of including 'Hispanics' & 'Minorities' into the Black American conversation. Donald Trump commented that Illegal Immigrants were stealing 'Black Jobs'. Mainstream Media & some Blackfolk were insulted by the statement, but Black Men have been literally pushed out of Union Jobs; particularly in the Field of Construction, in favor of Immigrants. People seem to forget that Black Men have traditionally been Blue Collar Workers. Trump is a virtual King of 'Off Color Comments', but many of Us understood what he was trying to say.

From a Black Perspective, the pivot away from Black Specific Issues speaks volumes about BOTH Party Agendas. Most Black Americans can't afford HBCU Tuitions, so funding them is a Moot Point to Us. Offering Black Students Free or Lower Tuition to State Universities would make more sense. Joe Biden offered a $10K Tax Credit to Black 1st Time Home Buyers, but didn't elaborate on it. He appeared strongest on the topic of Abortion, but allowed Trump to flummox him on the topic; particularly Late Term Abortions. Donald Trump appeared strongest on the issue of Immigration & put Biden on the spot several times, but didn't offer a Specific Agenda on how he will tackle it. Trump also lacked a Policy for lowering Inflation, other than extending his Tax Cuts to Corporations. Joe Biden's Economic Plan, is the continuation of 'Bidenomics'- A Plan that many are already concerned about.

Political Analysts & Pundits covering the Debate were quick to point out Joe Biden's performance. Most felt that he missed several opportunities to catch Donald Trump in blatant lies; they also questioned his Physical & Mental Fitness. He was supposed to reassure his Base that he had the Strength & Mental Competence to Serve another 4 Years, but critics are questioning his ability to finish the 1st Term of Office. Several Democratic Strategists called Biden "feeble & weak". Joy Reid said that Dems she spoke w/ are bordering on 'panic'. Rumors are spreading of a possible intervention asking him to step down, but it might be too late to change Candidates. CNN was accused of Stacking the Deck in favor of Joe Biden, but Trump appeared comfortable w/ the format. Both Moderators allowed Donald Trump to embellish w/o fact checking him; was that their job, or Biden's to do?

Democrats are calling Joe Biden's performance 'A Bad Night' (citing a Cold & scratchy throat), while the GOP applauds Donald Trump for 'Doing what he had to do'. I thought that BOTH Candidates were mediocre. Trump is being congratulated for Side Stepping questions & presenting a Vision of Smoke & Mirrors. Biden took a week off to prepare, but instead of repeating his State Of The Union Address performance, he stumbled through most of the Debate. Mainstream Media tried to predict This Debate would rival the Kennedy vs Nixon Debate of 1960, but it wasn't even close. The best dialogue between the Candidates, was about their Golfing Handicaps. America deserves a President that will move Us forward, but We have 2 'Old Dudes' caught up in their Own Egocentricity.

Donald Trump admitted that he's only running again, because he didn't see a GOP Candidate that could defeat Joe Biden. There are GOP Moderates out there that Republican Leadership & Voters could legitimately support. A few might even sway Independents, Libertarians, & disaffected Democrats; but grassroot support for the 'MAGA Agenda' has silenced most, out of fear of being labeled 'RINO'... I thought that This 'Pre Baby Boomer' Generation was willing to pass the baton when Barack Obama was Elected, but it seems like they've Doubled Down since he left Office. We currently have a Congress run by folks adamant about holding Power until it's pried from their Cold Dead Hands. The World Dynamic is changing & America needs to adapt. The Era of 'Neo Conservatives' & 'Neo Liberals' has run its Course- BOTH allowed the development of a Plutocratic Billionaire Class that has literally choked the Middle Class.

The Future Generations of American Society are NOT expected to outperform the previous Generations. Gen. Z in particular, is DROWNING before They can even Start; but Our 'Elder States[Wo]Men' don't seem fazed by This. They ALL seem content w/ taking The Country Down w/ them.

-It's TIME for New Blood!

#TheArtOfDistraction #ElderAbuse #AgeOfMediocrity #Kakistocracy #KitchenTableIssues #Time4AChange

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misfitwashere · 5 months ago

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June 27, 2024

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

JUN 28

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

#debate #biden #trump

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intelligentchristianlady · 5 months ago

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Don't Be Fooled

"Trump said that some Democratic states allow people to execute babies after they’re born and that every legal scholar wanted Roe v. Wade overturned—both fantastical lies. He said that the deficit is at its highest level ever and that the U.S. trade deficit is at its highest ever: both of those things happened during his administration. He lied that there were no terrorist attacks during his presidency; there were many. He said that Biden wants to quadruple people’s taxes...and lied that his tax cuts paid for themselves; they have, in fact, added trillions of dollars to the national debt.

"Trump lied that the U.S. has provided more aid to Ukraine than Europe has when it’s the other way around, and he was off by close to $100 billion when he named the amount the U.S. has provided to Ukraine. He was off by millions when he talked about how many migrants have crossed the border under Biden, and falsely claimed that some of Biden’s policies—like funding historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and reducing the price of insulin to $35 a month—were his own accomplishments.

"There is no point in going on, because virtually everything he said was a lie...

"It went on and on, and that was the point. This was not a debate. It was Trump using a technique that actually has a formal name, the Gish gallop, although I suspect he comes by it naturally. It’s a rhetorical technique in which someone throws out a fast string of lies, non-sequiturs, and specious arguments, so many that it is impossible to fact-check or rebut them in the amount of time it took to say them. Trying to figure out how to respond makes the opponent look confused, because they don’t know where to start grappling with the flood that has just hit them.

"It is a form of gaslighting, and it is especially effective on someone with a stutter, as Biden has." (x)

#debate #trump #lies #more lies #nothing but lies

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odysseys-blood · 2 years ago

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im like. wracking my brain trying to remember if the chapel bells go off every hour each day or not bc i cant remember if they go off between like 1-7 am

#i think they do? but im not sure #fun fact last year we had a bomb threat (feel like that shit was made up tho bc ours was half a moth after other hbcus)#and i went to sleep bc yknow thh cancelled classes #i woke up hearing the church bells playing music thinking i died for a bit #just realized i posted this at the same time as the last post that one was in the queue this one wasnt

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justinspoliticalcorner · 7 months ago

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Stephen A. Crockett Jr. at HuffPost:

I’ve always been stunned at former President Donald Trump’s physical prowess.

I mean, who can forget when his White House director of communications, Anthony Scaramucci, gushed about witnessing Trump throw a perfect spiral through a tire? Or his claim that he’s seen the confirmed thousand-aire at Madison Square Garden in a top coat at the foul line swishing free throws? And despite all of us knowing that the former president’s diet relies heavily on fast food, that didn’t stop his White House physician, now Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas), from praising his genetics. “Some people just have great genes,” Jackson told reporters in 2018. “I told the president if he had a healthier diet over the last 20 years, he might live to be 200.” So it has been quite the show watching the gymnast-like contortions of the former president to avoid getting to know, or actually court, Black people to support his campaign. Earlier this month, in his latest episode of “See? Black people like me!” the president stood during an obvious photo-op at an Atlanta Chick-fil-A while smiling Black workers appeared to pose while taking his order. Trump reportedly ordered 30 milkshakes and some chicken, dealing out fast food for free publicity before heading to a high-dollar fundraiser in a largely white neighborhood.

A Black woman in the restaurant said, in her best untrained actor voice, “I don’t care what the media tells you, Mr. Trump, we support you!” I later found out the Black woman was in fact Michaelah Montgomery, a conservative activist who had arranged the entire scene. To her credit, the bigger story was supposed to be a conversation between students from nearby HBCUs and the presidential candidate about conservatism and possible inroads with the Black community. The moment became a meme. As with most Trump moments. Because what Trump and those around him don’t understand or care to involve themselves with is that Black people, more specifically Black women (also known as the spine of the Democratic voting bloc), are three dimensional, alive, actual human beings.

In Trumpland, Black people are caricatures of all of the worst stereotypes that have ever been imagined. They are rapists, thieves and murderers who want to terrorize… wait, no, that’s immigrants. But the point remains: The idea of even possibly courting Black voters never moves past stereotypical ideology. Which is comical when you consider that in 2024, the year of our lord Dawn Staley, an actual presidential strategy for winning the Black vote was… wait for it… sneakers. In February, Trump unveiled his $399 “Never Surrender High-Tops” at SneakerCon in Philadelphia. Trump didn’t just premiere the gaudy gold high-top decorated with an American flag motif, the sort of faux patriotism that’s truly become Trump’s signature brand, he actually went to the event to help hawk the ridiculousness that was an attempt to capture not just youth culture but ... well, I’ll just let Fox News contributor Raymond Arroyo say the quiet part out loud. “This is ... connecting with Black America. Because they’re into sneakers. They love sneakers. This is a big deal. Certainly in the inner city.”

Arroyo got bashed for his take, as he should, but his take was a glimpse into how many Republicans, especially Trump, see Black people as sneaker-loving, inner-city dwelling and easily swayed by shiny, expensive things. It’s Republican typecasting in which a Black person remains the villain/magical negro who serves only to further the white protagonist’s storyline. And make no mistake about it, in the story of Trump, as told by the narcissistic narrator, the former president is always the hero.

Which brings us to Blacks 4 Trump (aka Black Voices for Trump), you know, that hodgepodge group of Blacks (mostly men) who have proclaimed their allegiance to Trump and who stump for him despite his lackluster attempts at any tangible metrics with the Black community. Don’t act like you don’t remember Michael Symonette, Maurice Woodside and Mikael Israel (these are not three people; it’s one man who has gone by three names), more commonly know as “Michael the Black Man” (his name for himself, not mine) who magically appeared behind Trump at a 2017 rally in Arizona. Always strategically placed in the camera’s view wearing a shirt that says “Trump & Republicans Are Not Racist” or “Blacks 4 Trump.” The funny thing is that the group Blacks 4 Trump didn’t ever seem to really do anything other than allow their Blackness to be co-opted for the then-president’s political gain. The group didn’t have an agenda or a political manifesto (at least it never presented one) that noted how Trump could actually earn the Black vote. They just showed up and allowed their images to be used to sell a product.

Because, never forget, Trump is always in the Trump business. Which leads to arguably the most disturbing attempt by Trump’s campaign to court Black voters, which Trump’s camp openly admits they need to win over in the upcoming election: Insisting that because Black people have been the victims of an unjust criminal system, they relate to Trump more because he, too, is a victim of the Man.

[...] Trump acknowledges that there is discrimination and, more important, that Black people have been discriminated against. This means nothing to him, of course, as that only serves to get him to his second point, which is that he can relate, which therefore makes him more relatable to the discriminated class. He doesn’t want to fix the problem, he only wants to leech off of the sympathies related to it. It is in this brushstroke that Trump ― who has been charged by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, a Black woman; Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Black man; and New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Black woman ― that he, too, is a victim of systemic racism.

“When I did the mug shot in Atlanta, that mug shot is number one,” Trump said. He added that the Black population “embraced it more than anyone else.” He also said: “I’m being indicted for you, the Black population.” First, the obvious. I’ll just let President Joe Biden’s campaign spokesperson Jasmine Harris explain it. “The audacity of Donald Trump to speak to a room full of Black voters during Black History Month as if he isn’t the proud poster boy for modern racism. This is the same man who falsely accused the Central Park 5, questioned George Floyd’s humanity, compared his own impeachment trial to being lynched and ensured the unemployment gap for Black workers spiked during his presidency,” Harris told The Washington Post.

“Donald Trump has been showing Black Americans his true colors for years: an incompetent, anti-Black tyrant who holds us to such low regard that he publicly dined with white nationalists a week after declaring his 2024 candidacy.”

Stephen Crockett Jr. wrote in HuffPost that Donald Trump's attempt to court Black voters is based on stereotypical traits of Blacks from a conservative POV, including by claiming to relate to being victims of an unjust criminal system that Black folk face.

#Black Americans #African Americans #Donald Trump #2024 Presidential Election #2024 Elections #Black Voices For Trump #Raymond Arroyo #Trump Mugshot

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cherienymphe · 11 months ago

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I don’t see the problem with white writers “only” writing for white readers. Just like black writers write for black readers and no one says shit to them🤷🏽‍♀️

Also not only black and white readers exist. There are other ethnicities.

You seem like the type to not understand why HBCUs and D9 sororities/frats exist in the first place so I'm not even going to touch on why no one has a problem with reader fics tagged as black!reader bc you've revealed to me that you're very simple. With that being said, I never said it was bad or had an issue with it. In fact, I'm almost positive I praised it bc then I know what not to read. In addition, I'm not other ethnicities. I'm black. So idk what the point of that tidbit was

#asks #y'all are so odd #I genuinely wonder why people like this even follow me

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cuddl3s4shur1 · 2 years ago

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All I Do Is Think Of You I

Hbcu Shuriri X Hbcu black Fem reader .

Authors Note: This song got me in my mf feels

Summary: I For the first time you meet your dorm mates friends and start to only think about them.

Part 2

Backstory

Shuri and riri where your neighbors and your dorm mates best friend. Most of the time they where always at your dorm.You would admit to you friend you may have a little crush for them .You could never express those feelings to shuri and Riri obviously you didn’t want to mess up there relationship.Because of that you ignore them at all times .

When you see them walking towards you,you walk another way. When your at a party and you see them you leave the party . You woke up at times knowing they wouldn’t be there. When they text you you don’t respond.When they come your dorm you make up excuses on why you can’t stay . You did this for months hoping no one realized what you really where doing .

Present Day:

It was a Friday 6:15 pm you where in your dorm with your dorm mate Amani. “I got a question “ Amani starts to look at you . “I have a answer “ you say smirking . “Why do you always ignore shuri and riri” you in fact did not have a answer for this. You thought you hid it so well ,guess not . “Uhh what do you mean “ you look at her hesitantly. “Y/n you know damn well what I’m talking about” she say slightly raising her voice . “ ok fine a couple months ago I developed a crush and I don’t want to ruin their relationship “ you say talking in a fast pace yet Amani still understood you .”They miss you “ Amani says “There coming over and asking if you would stay this time they should come at 6:30 “ Amani says you start to look sad for you have done “I’m sorry Amani but I’m going to Zaryees 90’s party “ you say sounding sad . “I might go but probs not “ Amani says “ima leave at 8 the party at 9 “

you say to her .You started walking to your closet looking for your outfit . You heard a knock at the door it was was probably shuri and riri .”I’ll get the door “ you say while walking to the door.You open the door wide so They can com in while covering your face. They slowly walk in obviously seeing you. You lock the door after they come in. You walk back to your closet to find your outfit. Shuri and riri took a seat on Amani’s bed .You decided to wear some outfit from the show moesha and you where going to do your hair like her . You put your clothes in your bed .”The silence is real loud “ Amani says you let out a chuckle . “That’s because y/n doesn’t talk to us anymore “ riri says while Amani winks at you ,you roll your eyes at her.”Where you going “shuri asks while she watches you make your outfit.”Somewhere” you say while moving to your jewelry box.Shuri begins to hum after what you said . You layout your jewelry with your outfit.You move to your accessory rack you got out your sunglasses and purse. You then chose some heel fluffy brown boots and than chose you scent .”Done” you say looking at your outfit. “Ima take a shower because this party finna be lit asf “ you take your outfit leaving the accessories on the bed. You get your underwear from your closet and walk to the bathroom with your underwear clothes towel and your speaker.

(Outfit idea)

Shuri’s Pov

Y/n has been acting hella weird for months. She practically ghosted me and riri for some reason.I miss her , I miss y/n and how she was her laugh her smile .now she just runs away from me or riri .I don’t know why she runs away from us but when we try to talk to her about it she ignores us. So we stopped trying and left her alone.

“Where is y/n going “ I ask Amani in a serious tone of voice. “She going to some 90s party” Amani says while Turing on the tv . I was hella protective of y/n ,I couldn’t tell anyone why but I was . “ we going to that party" i demanded while getting up to leave."i was going to go anyway " riri said I roll my eyes and we leave her dorm .

Y/n's Pov

It had been 2 hours since your shower. Your did a orange make up look. You did you hair in pigtails with orange hair ties . You had brown glasses that rested on top of your head . You had a bandana bag that matched your blazer that had your keys and phone. “See you Amani “ you say while waving at her. You leave your dorm making it to the hallway. You check your dorm door to make sure it’s locked .You walk in hallway making it to the elevator you hear a door unlocked and close. You turn around and it’s Riri and Shuri .You run to the elevator and click on the first floor button. You get a notification on your phone from Uber you Uber was here . You got off the elevator waking out of the dorms heading to your Uber .

Once you made it to your destination you waited in line .you heard your name being yelled you turn around. “NORA!!” Nora was your best friend you grew up with her before you moved . You guys ran and hugged each other . “What are you doing here “ Nora says letting you go . “ My friend zaryee throwing the party “ you say to her. You feel the line start to move and you shuffle with it . You slowly make your way inside the party . You hear the song you believe is “Stay-jodeci” .The party looks cool you look on all sides and you see a bar.You walk over to the bar and get a margarita.You than started slowly moving your hips once you got your margarita and made it the dance floor .They start to play I Like by guy. I finished drinking my margarita and put my glasses on a random ass table while I was walking to the dance floor. Once I made it to the dance floor .I was slowly grinding and dancing around on people . Than the played Stay-By Jodeci.I slowly Danced and belly rolled on people .

Shuri’s Pov

Once we made inside the party I see y/n bumping and grinding on random ass women. It made me angry in a way to see her do that to someone that’s not me or riri . I decided to get a drink from the bar “ Aye can I get some whiskey light on ice “ i ask the bartender. I get my drink and head over .I see riri dancing and grinding just like y/n . I roll my eyes and just slowly admire riri and y/n for how they are . After I finished my drink I start to relax . I hear the beginning to the song that’s finna make y/n riri go crazy. Back that ass up starts to play . I get up from the my chair and get ready to get y/n off the dance floor.

Y/n Pov

They start the intro to back that ass up. You start to do a 2 step until the song really starts.The song starts and you start twerking .hoping that your dress don’t ride up your sides . You feel a firm hand on your back but you dance and dance until the song was over. You went back to the bar “Can I get 4 shots” .The bartender puts the places the shots on the table . “Thanks “ the Bartender nods from my response. You drink each shot one by one . “Can I get 4 more shots please “ you ask .Than you started to walk to the dance floor they started to All I do is think of you-Troops.You see this one person that looks familiar to me but you can’t tell your drunk . You hear your voice from a distance.”Can I dance with you ma” the voice sounds hella familiar but you can’t tell who’s voice . “Sure “ you start to sing “ I can’t wait to get to school each day~” you sing . You lay your head on their chest.

Riri’s Pov

Y/n placed her head on my shoulder and danced my hands where on her waist. Y/n looked up at and looked like she realized who I was. "you know you and shuri are my crushes I avoid you guys cause I love you" y/n says. She has to be drunk. "All I do is think of you guys" y/n says smiling. "Shuri" I yell getting her attention. “I think y/n is drunk and she just confessed love “ I say scared of Shuri’s reaction.”That makes sense why she has been hella weird “ shuri says while adjusting the rings on her finger I just nod . “Get her an Uber “ I say telling shuri . Shuri opens her phone ordering and Uber for us.We walk to the entrance while y/n is taking “Your really pretty riri can you pleaseeeeeeee give me a kiss “ I roll my eyes y/n is so drunk .The Uber comes after a while and we get in the Uber . Y/n starts to fall asleep on my chest . As I look at the girl on my chest I show a smile admiring her. She occasionally wakes up from time to time but still lays on my chest. Once we made it home sense y/n could still do things we told her to take a shower so she wouldn’t reek of the smell of alcohol. Once she did we gave her some pjs and we put her to bed while me and shuri where thinking about her confession .

The Next Morning

Y/n’s Pov

You wake up to some sun light in my face . You sit my self up and notice this isn’t my bed or bedroom. Where the hell are you and how did you get there . You look to the left and it’s riri and you look to the right and it’s shuri . How the fuck did your drunk self manage to get in this situation. You look to see if you had on pjs on thankfully you did.

“Don’t tell me my drunk self confessed my secret “ you say under your breath .

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angelsmist · 2 years ago

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UNEXPECTED CIRCUMSTANCES 2 - HBCU!SHURI X READER

prompt: a leak in your residence hall calls for unexpected pairings…

contains: shuri x fem!reader, cursing

disclaimers - this is not my idea!! all credits to @vargskelegore for hbcu shuri. it is an amazing idea. however, the storyline is mine. also, i would prefer if only black people read this story, simply because it is a reader insert specifically for us. thank you <3

also, this is a continuous storyline although it’ll consist of one-shots. it will have the same characters and plot overall. you can see all the parts so far on my master list!

this is the last part of the roommate dorms storyline but the hbcu storyline with the same characters and background will still go on! also i’d like to add my requests are open and feel free to drop something in there!

this is not proofread because a sister is TIREDDDD and stressed out…just comment if there are errors or some weird bs i forgot to take out 😭

“Jesus. I didn’t know the campus even had dorms this big,” You spoke in awe, entering Shuri’s dorm.

It looked something like you thought it would. Most of it was decorated like a bedroom that would be in a palace, but with a touch of African-American culture. You couldn’t help but smile when you saw a few pictures of music artists that you had introduced to Shuri hung up in her room.

A breathy chuckle came from Shuri’s lips as she dropped her keys onto the table next to the door. She laughed again when she heard you gasp after your eyes locked with the view Shuri got every night from her balcony. You could see the beautifully lit up city of Atlanta through the glass.

Once your brain had fully processed the room, you looked to Shuri who had moved up to be alongside you. You quirked an eyebrow. “What happened to being treated like a normal student?”

She tilted her head at you with a small grin playing at her lips. “I cannot decline every perk.”

“Fair.”

Shuri walked past you, going towards her dresser and picking out clothes. Once she did so, she turned to you. “You can unpack your stuff while I shower. I can take the couch.”

She had already began to walk towards the restroom, but you quickly grabbed her bicep to stop her. “Uh, no. I’m not about to make you sleep on the couch in your own dorm. I’m fine on the couch.”

“And I’m not going to make my guest sleep on the couch,” She quipped, her tone less playful than earlier.

“Shuri, it’s fine. I’m serious,” You reassured her. “I love couches. I usually fall asleep on them, anyways. You’d be doing me a favor.”

“(Name), you-”

“I don’t care,” You interrupted her before she could even form a proper sentence. “You take the bed, and if you try to take the couch, I’ll sleep on the floor to make you feel worse.”

You removed your hand from Shuri’s bicep after speaking, waiting to see what she’d say.

Shuri pointed a finger at you, narrowing her eyes and grinning in defeat. “Oh, you’re good. You are good.”

You shrugged innocently. “I know.”

Once Shuri had entered the bathroom and locked it, you took the chance to look around the room. Not in a creepy way, but you were a bit curious to see what things she had used to set up her room.

There were a few things in Shuri’s room that were no doubt put there to remind her of her home in Wakanda. You recognized a few of these things to be vibranium which slightly caught you off guard because of the fact that she had them out in the open like that.

On one of the sides of her bed, she had a few records laid messily on it. A lot of it was music that you had recommended to her or music she had listened to when you two would share airpods in class.

After looking around a bit, you began to set up your blanket and pillow on the oddly big couch. Once you had finished that, you pulled out a random pair of shorts and a baggy shirt from your bag.

Shuri came out of the bathroom barely two minutes later, and to say that you were left speechless would’ve been an understatement.

She wore a black tank top with blue and green plaid pajama pants that drove you crazy. The wet curls that covered the top of her face was just the icing on her cake.

You couldn’t tell if Shuri knew that you had been staring at her for a while when her gaze finally locked with yours. You had a small feeling that she felt your eyes burning into her body judging by the smug grin she held on her face.

You were first to break the silence. “I’m…I’m gonna go shower now.”

You could honestly get used to this.

She had the type of bathroom the average college student would dream of. Although it was connected, presumably with the dorm next to hers, it was still very spacious and made you feel more refreshed than you’ve felt in a while.

Needless to say, it was definitely a step-up from the bathroom you used in your hall.

When you exited the bathroom and entered the bedroom, you were a bit surprised to see Shuri awake. You had been in there for a while.

“Oh, you’re awake?”

“Yeah, I wanted to wait on you,” Shuri informed, leaning onto her headboard.

“I’m sorry I kept you waiting, then,” You apologized as you made your way over to the couch to put your towel next to your suitcase. “Long dance practices usually call for longer showers.”

“It’s fine,” Shuri reassured her, waving a dismissive hand. “I’ve been listening to music.”

You paused for a second, letting the music flow through your ears. “Tiwa Savage?”

“You know your Afro-beats,” She observed, a proud beam on her face.

“Well, duh,” You mirrored her expression. It quickly faded when you looked over at the couch and realized everything you had used to set up a bed was gone. You knew it was Shuri’s doing, seeing as she was the only other person in the room. When you looked back over to you, the beam on her face soon became one of innocence with a hint of guilt under it.

“Shuri…”

“Oops,” She shrugged her shoulders. “I must have misplaced your stuff while tidying my room. “Guess you have no choice but to take the bed.”

You held up a finger at Shuri, doing the same thing she had done before she went to shower. “Oh, you’re good.”

She picked up on your reference. “I know.”

On the opposite side of the bed, your bonnet was laid out on the nightstand. You looked to your side to meet Shuri’s eyes. “You sure this is okay?”

Of course,” She confirmed. “As long as you don’t move too much in your sleep.”

You moved your head side to side in response, lifting up the blankets on her bed to get underneath them. “Oh, I would never. I don’t play about that.”

You slipped into the bed with ease, knowing that it hadn’t entirely sunk in that you’d be sharing a bed with the princess of Wakanda.

It didn’t help that she looked incredibly attractive at the moment. At least, more than usual.

You flipped off the lamp on your side and grabbed your bonnet, putting it on as you got comfortable. You wanted the night to last longer, considering the fact that your dorm would likely become safe to use again in less than a week, but you were exhausted, and you were sore.

Not to mention, your Tylenol was something that you left in your dorm so you were definitely eager to rest and put the pain on pause.

You had decided to sleep on the side that wasn’t facing Shuri, not because you didn’t wanna see her, but because you were sure you’d start staring like a creep.

It did catch you off guard when you felt a hand drawing circles on your back. It startled you at first, but soon became a soothing touch that you melted into.

Shuri brought her voice to a whisper. “Goodnight, (name).”

“Goodnight,” You muttered, nearly half-asleep. “And Shuri?”

“Hmm?”

“Will I ever be getting my blanket back?”

You could hear her laugh sleepily. “Yeah. You will.”

#shuri x reader #black panther fic #fanfic #shuri udaku #shuri x f!reader #shuri x black!reader #shuri x you #shuri x fem!reader #hbcu!shuri

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lucillele · 2 years ago

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𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 | 𝟐

Shuri x Black!fem!reader

Summary: Going to a party with your “friends” seemed like it going in the wrong turn but luckily you met someone special.

Warning: angst, insecurities/anxiety, fake friends, long paragraph at the end, cursing, possibly ooc shuri idk

A/N: Si La Quieres was playing when I was writing this and I was like aww then I got to the angst. Also, I actually proofread it this time which means I am never not proofreading and posting stuff again. Good news is I actually enjoyed writing and reading it. Credit to @vargskelegore for the hbcu shuri idea

It had been about a week since you and Shuri met at that party. You still cringed at the thought of the things that you said from the car to the way through the dorms but Shuri assured you it was fine and actually quite funny to experience. She had definitely made life more enjoyable while you went through the emotionally tiring transition of weeding out those “friends” out of your life.

She had even gotten you out of your comfort zone a bit. This bond between you two had brought up questions but luckily you were used to ignoring the things you didn’t want to hear. It was quite amusing when you did listen though. It did bring out a feeling of jealousy you didn’t know you had. The relationship didn’t start off with pure platonic feelings or attraction on your part but you thought it would eventually fade out as you got closer. Oh were you wrong.

Shuri had been calling you for a few seconds now but you were too focused on getting this paper done at the last minute. She had resorted to leaning forward out of her chair and flicking a finger under your chin to get your attention causing you to furrow your brows in confusion. It wasn’t unusual for her to touch you in some way as she had gotten more comfortable and started always having her hands on you in some way which did not help your feelings at all. “You didn’t hear the previous 5 times I was calling you?” She said, laughing a bit. You thought about it before facepalming. “I’m so sorry. I waited until the last minute to do this paper and..” you stopped to hopefully not reveal anything.

“And? You usually pass these classes without even trying. What’s really wrong?” She said, looking at you attentively. The fact that she had noticed these things prior to your meeting had made your breath hitch a bit.

“I guess I’m just tired between this and the girls.” You said, hoping she would buy it especially since it was technically the truth just not all of it. She nodded, giving you a sympathetic smile before grabbing your computer. She clicked the touchpad a few times, probably making sure whatever you wrote was saved, and then closed your laptop. You just sat there watching her get up from the chair beside your bed and walk to the door until she turned around and looked at you like you were crazy. “Come on! We’re going to take a break.” You hesitantly got up and walked to the door which she held out for you. “Where are we going?” You asked. “It’s a surprise.” Shuri said with a smile that made you almost forget about all of your problems.

The “break” had ended up being longer than you expected with Shuri claiming she wanted to give everything a chance. You were grateful though, she was able to get your mind off of everything and became a good person to confide in considering she had heard the worst of it when you first met. Now she had you rambling, most likely off of the pure sugar you were running off of at the moment, about anything that came to mind. “I was so damn focused on pleasing them that I neglected everything. I haven’t even done anything besides attend classes. That is not what I came here for.” You said, the last part making Shuri’s eyebrows furrow.

You let out a few giggles before trying to explain yourself. “I mean that’s like 50% of what I came here for but you know college is supposed to be fun. You’re supposed to be able to grow here and I’ve been doing the opposite.” You said before stuffing your mouth with ice cream.

As you talked, Shuri nodded and smiled taking in everything before responding. “On a good note, you can afford to focus on something other than classes. On another good note, you have me.” She said giving you that same smile that made everything else not matter.

You looked at her for a second smiling before averting your eyes to try to make yourself not obvious. Despite your feelings for her developing minute after minute when you were around her or thinking about her, you were getting more comfortable with being close to her. Your first instinct was to avoid possible rejection and avoid her but this was different. “I have one question. How long it’s going to take for you to forget about you know what?” You said, leaning forward a bit to whisper the last part.

“I hope never.” She said, smiling from across the table. “No! I was probably weird! Why would you want to remember that?”

“It was the most interesting thing that happened that day.” She said. “You are pretty weird though. I like it.” You stared at her for a minute with a sort of “done” look making her bust out laughing. “See and now I get to see things like that.” She said in between laughs. “Are you happy?” You said in a deadpan tone but trying not to smile. “Yes, very much.” She said with a wide smile.

Two weeks went by with you and Shuri hanging out randomly and you had become pretty good friends by now. You’d started to get more comfortable around her but that only made your feelings harder to hide. It had become a whole thing between ‘Should I tell her?’ and ‘No! I’ve only known her for almost a month now.’ And you thought it was hard to hide it two weeks ago.

You and Shuri were now in her dorm room “studying.” You both had abandoned everything early on in the session, deciding to watch tv instead which had become routine by now. Sure, it wasn’t helping your workload but you had learned not to care about anything else around Shuri which became something she lightly scolded you about.

You were both snuggled under the fluffy blanket you came wrapped in when you knocked on her door to pull an all nighter. Shuri just laughed at you and let you in, saying you would be the first one to fall asleep and wouldn’t last even half the night. You were determined to prove her wrong and spend more time with her but she didn’t need to know that last part.

It wasn’t looking good for you about 2 hours in as all the little comments and context you were giving Shuri had ceased. She noticed this of course along with how your head gravitated to leaning back onto her shoulder but you kept trying to keep yourself awake and your head straight. She smiled and said nothing about it for a while even when your head actually fell onto her for a few seconds. However, you quickly woke up and sat up. “Are you sleepy?” Shuri said in a teasing tone, looking down at you.

“No.” You mumbled and heard her laugh at how you were being as stubborn as a child. “It’s ok if you are.” She said, giving you a soft look. If only you would look back at her and see how she was looking at you right now. Then, there would be no doubt in your mind about how she felt about you but you kept your eyes on the TV, too distracted with trying to prove you were awake. “No.” You repeated even as your eyes were shutting on their own. Shuri cupped your cheek and guided your head towards her shoulder. You immediately gave in and cuddled closer to her causing Shuri to tense up a bit before relaxing again, but you were too asleep to notice that and how her heart was suddenly beating faster.

You woke up with a gentle light shining in the room. You sat up and stretched before realizing that it wasn’t your room or your bed and you were alone. You turned to find the source of the light snores you heard and found Shuri slightly cuddled up to you. Your first instinct was to run to the bathroom and freak out there but not wanting to wake her up, you tried to freak out in your head instead.

Of course, the first explanation you thought off wasn’t the most positive because of past *experiences* but eventually you figured out what happened which at least helped you feel better. Sort of. That combined with her being beside you didn’t help your shocked state right now. You had taken a few peeks at Shuri, the seemingly peaceful state she was in making you calm as well. You had taken too many peeks though, causing you to be blessed with her beautiful morning voice. “How do I look?” She asked before opening her eyes and smiling at you.

Your eyes widened a bit before you got the courage to respond. “You’ve gotten a little bit of slobber right here. Oh, and lines all over your face.” You said, turning to her and using your elbow you prop yourself up. She was actually convinced for a bit until she saw your mischievous smile. “You think you’re funny?” She said, giving you a look that would’ve melted you if you weren’t feeling so bold right now. “I do, yes.” Shuri shook her head smiling at you before checking the time, making her smile disappear. “Shit!” she said, jumping out of bed.

“What’s wrong?” You said, sitting up. She stopped for a second and turned around to look at you. “Nothing! I just have to take care of something.” She said, walking to the bathroom. You started to get up and gather your things when Shuri walked out of the bathroom out of her pajamas and in a new tracksuit. You couldn’t help but do a double take and tried to cover it up with pretending that you were looking for something. “You don’t have to leave if you don’t want to.” She said smiling at you as she hurried and got everything he needed.

You gave her a small nod and smiled at her. There was a bit of silence for a moment so you resorted to cleaning up to be a good “guest” when you felt Shuri come closer to you. “Make sure to eat something okay? And actually study.” She said in a caring tone, taking your hand in hers. She’d started doing gestures like these more often since you’d opened up to her more. While your jokes and quirks were funny, she worried about your wellbeing when you had way too much on your mind.

“No promises.” You said only to be met with silence and a look from Shuri as she had her hand on the doorknob. “Kidding.” You said sheepishly and watched as she left, the eye contact making your ears burn.

You took up on her offer to stay for a little bit and took in every detail of her dorm. It was much better decorated then yours for sure. While your room still felt like a dorm room, Shuri’s felt like an actual home. There were beautiful art pieces to fill the dull walls and big desk with a whole set up and other things you would be sure to ask about later. Not to mention how big and comfortable her bed was and how it was making it hard for you to leave. Or maybe it was the smell or the way you both had been in it just a few minutes ago.

You forced yourself to get up and get ready at your own dorm to be productive today. Shuri was right, most of your classes were easy to pass but you had fallen behind because of some distractions but with no classes today and some free time hopefully you could catch up on what you neglected. You walked to the library, sighing contently when you reached the exact spot your life changed in a few weeks ago.

Your study session went pretty well and you were almost done with everything. Of course, you couldn’t just have a peaceful work session and just had to be interrupted. “Oh, there she is.” You heard a familiar voice saying, making you look up to see Jada, one of your “friends.” “Hey girl, I haven’t seen you in a while.” She said in a fake nice tone, pulling out the chair in front of you.

“Hi Jada.” You said, shutting your laptop and giving her a small smile. “You’ve been busy I see.” She said. “Oh, no I’m just catching up on classes.” You said, trying your best to not seem annoyed. “No, girl, I mean with you and Shuri.” She said, leaning closer to you and whispering.

“What do you mean?” You asked. “What do you mean what do I mean? Aliyah saw you coming out of her room. You two have been sneaking around for weeks.” She said, like it was the latest celebrity gossip. You just watched as she pulled up multiple pictures of you and Shuri on campus laughing and smiling.

“We’re friends.” You said for like the nineteenth time or at least that’s what it felt like. You had started packing your things and getting ready to walk away from this situation. “Friends my ass.” She said, clearly having a laugh out of this. “I’m serious.” You said, stopping yourself from rolling your eyes. “Well if you guys aren’t dating, I know some who would date her.” She said, causing you to practically snap your neck to look at her. “Well, if I date her, you two are gonna need to set some boundaries.” She said, leaning back into the chair she was sitting in and smiling.

That was the last straw for you. You dropped your backpack up on the table and got up quickly causing the chair to screech on the floor and making other people look. “Okay. I’m going to leave now to stop myself from saying what I really want to say. Leave me and Shuri alone.” You said, unintentionally making the last part louder which you’re sure everyone heard.

You walked off as quickly as you could. You heard a chair screech like yours did before and Jada yelling at you. “Fine! I don’t want to deal with your uppity ass anyway!” You just continued to walk out of the library despite your sporadic heartbeat and desperate need for air. At some point, you ended up running all the way to your dorm and ended up staying there the rest of the day.

You had never told Shuri what happened and since it somehow never made its way to her, so you decided to act like nothing happened. Yeah she could tell something was wrong but she could tell you didn’t want to talk about it so she left it alone in hopes that you would come to talk to her out of your own will. You wanted to so badly but you saw how busy she was and how she still made time for you and thought ‘I can’t add another thing to her plate.’

Your relationship had developed even more now that it had been around a month and a half since you two had met. Everything was great but you felt your feelings for her and insecurities about what other people thought eating up at you and your happiness. Still, you pushed it down and tried to enjoy the moments you had with her.

Now you were getting ready to go to a football game with Shuri. You two had randomly come up with the idea on another one of your“study sessions”, planning to go out to eat after and end the night with a movie. The whole thing sounded like a date which pretty much describes a lot of the things you and Shuri did lately.

“I’m serious. Is this too much or not?” You said, observing yourself in the mirror. You were wearing a black skirt with a black oversized graphic tee tucked in and long boots that would shorten the gap between you and Shuri. Not to mention a headband holding back your hair from your face and medium sized hoops. “Honey, if you change your outfit one time I will slap you and I will not apologize this time.” Your roommate and best friend, Ari said, giving your face a little pat and falling back onto her bed. She had slapped you to snap you out a whole freakout about a similar thing about a week ago but immediately felt bad about it and apologized.

“I’m just trying to make sure it’s not too much or too little or both.” You said, fluffing your hair out a bit more. “I think you’re fine. I still can’t believe you met her while you were drunk. I told you not to go especially with those b-” “Ari.” “Whatever you want to call them. I just wanted to see my folks for one weekend and you get a whole ass girlfriend.” She said, getting up to help you with your hair. “She’s not my girlfriend.” You said, rolling your eyes. She just raised her eyebrows at you. “You’re so cute.” She said before patting your head and walking into the bathroom.

You were going to add to the conversation until you heard a knock. “Y/N, you ready!” You heard Shuri’s voice say. “So when are you going to tell her you love her?” Ari said casually leaning against the door frame with her toothbrush in her mouth. Your eyes widened and you threw a pillow at her. “Shut up!” You whispered, grabbing your purse and opening the door. “Hi.” You said, smiling at Shuri and closing the door behind you.

“Hey. You look amazing.” Shuri said, grabbing your hand. “Thank you.” You said, trying to seem casual when you felt a vibration in your pocket. You grabbed your phone and saw a text from Ari with a hand, ring, and kissing emoji, making you quickly shove your phone back into your pocket. “You’re acting weird tonight.” Shuri said, chuckling. You acted offended and walked off knowing that she would chase after you. Predictably, she grabbed your hand and pulled you back, seeing your smile. “Nevermind. This is normal for you.” She said, walking off and leaving you to chase after her now.

The game was exactly what you needed. It was the moment where you could just let go after all of the feelings and thoughts you had pent up. Shuri had made you go crazy multiple times during the whole thing but you weren’t complaining. This was one of the times you weren’t worried about what people thought and it was like a breath of fresh air.

The restaurant you guys had chosen was packed but luckily you were able to get in early enough. It seemed like someone in the universe was out for you because your three favorite girls Jada, Aliyah, and Elle were about two tables away. You had noticed earlier and just tried to ignore it which was pretty easy with Shuri in front of you. Halfway through your conversation, one of the players Miles came up to you. He was asking simple questions at first and introduced himself until he started to get outright bold. You could tell Shuri was pissed off. “It’s been nice talking to you but we have somewhere to be.” Shuri said, standing up. “Come on, let's go, love.” Love? That was new. She intertwined her fingers with yours and lightly dragged you out. You followed her turning to give a small wave to Miles and seeing your ex-friends smile knowingly.

You took your hand out of Shuri making her turn back to look at you worriedly. “The hell was that?” You said, pointing back to the restaurant. “He was flirting with you. What do you mean?” She said, walking closer to you. “I don’t care about him. It wasn’t a big deal and you escalated it.” You said, crossing your arms. “He needed to leave you alone.” She said as if it was a fact. “You confuse me, you know that?” You said, staring at the floor. “You do all these things and it doesn’t feel like we’re friends but we’re friends. That’s it.” You said. “Everyone is sure of what we are but me.” You continued, making Shuri realize what this was about. You couldn’t even control what came out, at this point it was a mix of insecurities and uncertainty. You felt bad about how it all seemed projected at Shuri but still you wanted an answer about what you two were. She cared for you a lot but was it out of pity or love? You felt so stupid so you avoided her eyes and backed up when she walked closer to you, trying to console you. No. She was supposed to get mad at you and leave. She wasn’t supposed to care for you even when you took everything out on her. “I..I need to get home. I promised Ari I would help her study.” You said, still looking at the ground. You walked away despite the urge to stop when she called your name. ‘This was not how this was supposed to go’ You thought.

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