Chapter 7

About a week has passed and Atlas's party is tomorrow. Dad convinced Mama to let me go. She's always worried. I don't blame her based on her past but come on. It's the beginning of a new age. Segregation is over and things are starting to look up for us (black people). Or maybe I'm wrong. Maybe this is just the start of another racial war. Anyways, going to a party means you have to look the part, right? Mr. Johnson's wife just so happens to own a clothing boutique downtown off Glamour and Lindor Rd. So, my parents and I decide to go find an outfit for me. Dad has to drive. As far as we're concerned racism and white supremacy still exist especially in the South. My parents say they don't want to risk anything being in a new area and all. As I gaze out the window I see a few new sights. Longer streets, cluttered stores, and more fire hydrants. Oh and of course, more white people. I do see a few black people but they don't look too happy. I see a white lady screaming at a black little girl while her (black girl) mother tries to move her behind her. I see a black man shinning an old white man's shoes. The white guy decides to spit on the black man. I look at his lips to see what he's saying. "Why I outta...not too hard boy and you betta make em shine like a full moon." The black man slows down and nods his head, "Yes, suh." I see the little black boy trying to reach for some money that a skinny white man is holding it up high. The man throws the money on the ground and laughs at the kid. As he walks away, the little boy scurries and tries to collect every dollar before it's blown away in the wind. What is wrong with these people? Did we do something so terrible that we still have to endure the mistakes our ancestors made?

Before I even get a chance to figure it out, I hear Mama calling my name. "Mira! Quit daydreaming and get out here missy!" I blush then look at Mama. Her and Dad are standing next to Mr. Don Johnson's wife, Lacy. When I look further, into the store, I can see Atlas rearranging certain items. He looks up and gives me a toothy smile. I smile back and get out the car. "Lacy please do me a favor and find this gal a pretty dress. All she does is wear pants and shorts. Let's make a woman out of her." I blush again and say, "Mama!" "What? It's true!" Mama says back. Mrs. Johnson laughs and gestures me to come closer. "It's okay! Let's see what I can find for ya." When i entered the store there were so many clothes. Dresses in the back, shirts to the left, pants/skirts to the right, and accessories in the middle. This new, colorful dimension has set me in a dreamy trance. I'm not a girly girl but I may turn into one after I leave this store. From fluffy dresses to fancy gowns. From floral shirts to simple ones. From suited pants to frilly skirts Mrs. Johnson has it all! She dragged me to the back and had two ladies measure me. I felt a bit nervous and looked around some more. A group of white ladies started to leave and gave me a look of disgust. "I will NOT shop in a store with colored, ugly pigs like you. UGH!" one of said before the store slammed shut. Mrs. Johnson placed two hands on her hips and shook her head. She stroked my cheek and said, "They will never learn." "I'm sorry." I said. "Why what for?" Mrs. Johnson asked. "I drove away some of your customers." She placed a thin but firm line on her lips as she lifted my chin. "You have done NOTHING wrong. Those no good for nothin' ladies are just following in the footsteps of their horrible, racist political husbands. They are the blame, not you sweetheart," I nodded my head though I wasn't convinced. "Now lets find a pretty dress for a glowing pretty girl like you!" I blushed. Again.

At this rate, I'll be white by sundown. I tried on all types of dresses. The first one was too poofed up and princessy. The second one was really slim and revealing. We went through many dresses. We couldn't find the right one...until finally! The last dress I tried on was made just for me. It is simple and yellow. Two straps fit for one body. I loved it. I also got new summer shoes, a purse and a bow clip for my hair. I am ready for the party. At least, visually!

PICTURES ARE BELOW (from Google Pics):

POOFED DRESS (1st):

REVEALING DRESS (2nd):

FINAL DRESS AND ACCESSORIES

Atlas's party was sure a sight to see. All you could see in his backyard were balloons, candy, black and white people, more balloons, tables/chairs set up, a big present pile, and the main color: baby blue. My parents went to talk with Mr. and Mrs. Johnson. I kept looking around the backyard trying to spot Atlas. I saw a group of white girls giggling and twirling their hair. They were all looking at someone. I followed their gaze and met a pair of deep hazel eyes with a winning smile. Well, I found him. All dressed up too! He started walking my way. His hair was slicked back and he wore a deep blue suit with a big bow tie that made him stand out. As he came closer, I grinned softly and handed him the present I had in my hand. "Happy Birthday, Atlas." He grabbed the present without taking his eyes off me and said, "Thanks, Mira!" We hugged and started walking around the backyard talking about his big day. I felt strong pairs of eyes burning through my back. I looked over my shoulder and saw those group of girls steaming with anger, hands crossed, and pointing at me.

The one with the cup of lemonade started coming towards us. I stopped in my tracks then Atlas turned to look at me. "What's the matter, Mira?" I tugged his sleeve and he turned around. He clenched his jaw and bent down to whisper to me, "That's Wilma. We used to date and every since we broke up she can't stop following me." I raised my eyebrows but nodded my head.

HOPE YOU GUYS LOVIN' THE STORY!!!