The Power of God Changes All: Series One: the Beginning

By Stephanie Styrcula

The Power of God Changes All is an 18 book series based on the struggles of a female gang banger, born and raised in a prominent family: The Mallette Clan, chosen to help lead people, including her loved ones, to God. Series One: The Beginning is the first to be released and unfolds the dramatic details of the life of Gabriella Mallette.

Gabriella, a little Einstein that enjoyed reading books and learning different things in life more than engaging herself in fun activities normal, rowdy children were known to do. Yet, she was portrayed as a lively, vibrant young beauty that lit up any room she entered. Her very existence brought happiness to anyone she associated with. Her two older brothers adored her, her mother was her best friend, and she was her daddy’s world. Gabriella felt so blessed and highly favored that God had enclosed her with a secure family. Her life was absolutely perfect, so what could go wrong?

Tragic struck her like an overload semi-truck when her mother suddenly was murdered during her dad’s absence. She lost her best friend, so how on earth did she bounce back from that? From then on, one trauma after another targeted her like a plague, and she didn’t understand what she did wrong to experience the events that beat her senseless to the ground. Was it due to her weakness because she became fragile after her mother’s death? So fragile that demons shaped as beings attacked her, one, in particular, shifted her spirit entirely. Gabriella grew sick and tired of her vulnerability and decided to do something to get back at her attackers. Nevertheless, she took the illegal route by joining her brothers’ gang called the slivers. Yet, unexpectedly there was more to being a part of gang-related activities than retaliating against enemies, and losing herself was one of the main dilemmas.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Archway Publishing
• Release date: Jul 7, 2022
• ISBN: 9781665726597

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Copyright © 2022 Stephanie Styrcula.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Archway Publishing

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Scripture taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

ISBN: 978-1-6657-2658-0 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-6657-2659-7 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022912336

Print information available on the last page.

Archway Publishing rev. date: 07/07/2022

CONTENTS

Prologue

Chapter 1 Mai’Lena Meets Jerry

Chapter 2 The Petition

Chapter 3 Victor, the Rohypnol Abuser

Chapter 4 The Burning Beds

Chapter 5 From Virgin Hood to Motherhood

Chapter 6 Daddy’s Home

Chapter 7 Extreme Measures

Chapter 8 Goodbye, Byron!

Chapter 9 The Big Move

Chapter 10 Breath Her Last Breathe

Chapter 11 Annual Boardwalk Shootout

Chapter 12 The Separation

Chapter 13 Alone

Chapter 14 Captured

Chapter 15 The Exchange

Chapter 16 The Recruit

Chapter 17 Skulls & Skullettes

Chapter 18 Gabriella, In Shock!

Chapter 19 Introducing the Sliverettes Part 1

Chapter 20 The Tests

Chapter 21 Introducing the Sliverettes Part 2

Chapter 22 Undercover

Chapter 23 The New Playgirl

Epilogue

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PROLOGUE

The pouring rain that resulted in mud and dirt always seemed to become the turnout amid World War II, a dreadful war that brought an ugly year in 1942. As he looked up to the sky to allow the spring showers to fall upon his dark face that washed away blood and camouflage face paint, he realized his mood matched well with the gloomy clouds in the firmament. The coolness of the water stung the wounds on his face but also soothed them. He breathed out through his full heart-shaped lips from exhaustion that came upon him. Okay, Luke, be on your guard, he thought to himself in a deep, grave voice. I refuse to lose my twenty-seventh year of existence to this nonsense. Pointing his weapon ahead, he continued to walk on foot in search of his comrades that crash-landed with him in a helicopter after destroying Japanese territories. To his dismay, no one was in sight until Luke detected a woman scream in the distance. Fully alert and ready to protect the woman in trouble, he confidently crept his way over to an average-sized Japanese man who threw a Korean woman who looked to be in her mid-twenties, possibly three years younger than Luke, inside of a tent. Luke knew that the guy’s attention was to force himself on her, but he wouldn’t let that happen on his watch. Rapidly, he lowered his M1 Garand to clutch it in his left hand, then quietly, he powerwalked towards the man as he joined the young lady, uninvitedly, and pulled out his tactical knife.

Fear gripped LingLing Hyelee, the young Korean woman, by the throat as she watched the man who took possession of her and her older sister after Japan gained power over Korea. She and her sister had nowhere to go after their parents cruelly was killed in front of them. Assuming the man, standing in the tent opening, had good intentions of coming to their rescue, she was dead wrong and found out the hard way that he held them captive to serve and please him. The image of him attacking her sister played in her mind and kept her awake at night for six years when he tried to press his way onto her, but her sister always found a way to distract him. Every time he set his eyes on her, MingMing, her sister, intervened because she didn’t want her to lose her virtue at eighteen. Last year, as the war worsened, he loved how she blossomed and tried to get her again. MingMing died by his hands, protecting her sister. She was with child, but only LingLing knew that. LingLing hated that her sister made the ultimate sacrifice to protect her virtue. So, as she stared at him, unbuckling his pants, the mock smirk on his unshaven face made her insides twist with disgust because, after a year of fleeing their village for protection from the war, he finally got her to himself. He stepped his foot out to inch closer to her, but a knife through his throat stopped him. LingLing froze with horror. Her abuser descended to the ground as her rescuer came into view. At the sight of him, her body began to relax. She was so dazed to where she couldn’t comprehend his communication in her native language, so she rubbed the tears from her eyes and gestured her ears. Her sight of him was more apparent, but when she noticed a figure behind him, she yelled in her language, Behind you!

Luke didn’t move in time to dodge the bullet that pierced through his shoulder blade, Aaahhhh! He roared in pain but swiftly swung around while clutching his knife, moved his hand horizontally, and sliced open his shooter’s throat, not his comrade but an enemy. Completely exhausted and in pain, Luke dropped to his knees as he faced LingLing, then he said to her in Korean, I pray that you’re okay, ma’am.

Horrified, LingLing pressed her palms to her cheeks as her rescuer fell to the ground. She appreciated him for saving her, so she wanted to return the generous gesture. Anonymously, she got rid of the two bodies of the Japanese men with much struggle and did her best to make her and Luke unnoticeable so that she could treat his wound with the first aid kit. She learned many things as a child, and medical emergencies were her specialties. As she took great care of him, it took him no time to recover, and after she stepped out of the tent the following morning, she returned only to find him moving in his sleep.

Well, rested, Luke woke up with his shoulder sewed and patched up. He looked at himself and saw that he only lay in his undergarment with a thin blanket over him. Confused about what happened, he almost spoke.

You’re finally awake, LingLing spoke to him in her language as she closed up the tent after she placed down a tray with a small cup of ginseng tea and a small bowl of potato soup, then she closed up the tent, and you look well.

Luke sat up slowly and gasped in pain but became comfortable in a seating position. He looked up at her with gentle, dark brown eyes and then asked in her language, What about you, ma’am? Are you okay? Did he hurt you? Closely he watched her shake her head ‘no.’ Suddenly, his eyes wandered over her. He studied the dark iris color in her small elongated monolid round pure eyes, flat u shaped chin and nose, thin, moist lips, flawless, smooth cheeks that formed a small, natural hollow crease whenever she spoke, and her thick black waist-length hair sat in an updo style. He thought that she was stunning with exotic poise. Her fair skin looked too rich to taste, but it didn’t stop him from indulging. Within’ the next three days, they felt drawn to each other to where he taught her proper English, up to the point where she gave him her virtue willingly. It was an experience that they both longed for and enjoyed. At the beginning of the fourth day, Luke cradled LingLing in his arms when he woke with a gun in his face. Luke didn’t fear the gun in his face, but he stressed that it was also pointed at LingLing, so he said in a calm voice when he noticed under the camouflage paint that it was one of his comrades, Joe, put the gun down. She’s not a threat.

She’s the enemy, Joe told him, his weapon switched from him to her, which makes her a threat.

No, His outburst woke her up, but when he saw that she was about to panic, he stroked the crown of her head and gave her reassurance, It’s okay, Ling baby. Then, he turned back to Joe and mentioned, She was almost attacked by one of them, so I helped her. She tried to warn me before I got shot. She took care of me, which is one of the reasons why I’m alive. So please, spare her.

Joe sighed as he hesitantly lowered his weapon, then said to Luke, Meet me outside. He turned away and exited the tent.

Luke turned to LingLing and said as he placed on his undergarment and pants, Get dressed, okay? I have the feeling trouble is heading our way.

LingLing nodded her head as she calmed her rapid heart rate by clutching the blanket under her bare arms.

Luke met Joe outside and got straight to the point, So tell me, is trouble heading our way?

Of course, it is, Joe told him, which is a good thing that I found you first, or else you both would be dead. The war got worse, so if you really care about her, you need to take her somewhere safe. He placed a hand on his shoulder when he saw the sadness on his face, Since you’re back on your feet, get your Garand and let’s get rid of these creeps.

Detachment from LingLing plunged Luke into despair, but he was still in the war and had his duties. He provided a safe shelter with a stable family away from the war through connections. It felt like a knife stabbed him in the heart when he looked into her sad, watery eyes as he had to say goodbye, but before his departure, he said, When this war is over, I will come back for you.

Through uncontrollable tears, she asked him in her language, Do you promise?

He first stroked her soft cheeks while he gazed down into her eyes, On my life, baby. I love you. Then, he left her a deep kiss that almost caused her to fall to her knees until he held her.

LingLing counted the days Luke would return to her, especially two months after their intimacy when she found out she was pregnant. She was excited to conceive but sad that the father was fighting in a war. Still, she believed in a higher power that allowed her to keep the faith that Luke Madison would soon return to her unharmed. Her belief in the higher power in heaven above came through to her relief. Mai’Lena Ling Madison was two years old when the war ended in 1945. That was the day that changed her life forever, for it was when her dad surprised her mother with flowers and the promise he kept. Even though it was Mai’Lena, who was a major surprise for him, they officially became a family when Luke took them to the United States and married LingLing right away. They resided in Brooklyn, New York as a fortunate middle-class family with blessings. Others often viewed them due to their different nationalities, but that didn’t keep them from happiness. They supported one another, separated themselves from particular social surroundings, and took drastic steps to protect their family.

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CHAPTER ONE

Mai’Lena Meets Jerry

(Brooklyn, New York,1957)

By 1957, the Madison family continued to struggle with racial discrimination, but through the grace of God, they survived, containing bravery and close friends of different nationalities. Since they were a middle-class family, not everyone was cruel and discriminatory. For instance, a boy of a specific Caucasian family, called the Maller Family, kindly looked after twelve-year-old Mai’Lena during the nights LingLing would accompany her husband at business events. Still, they were the only white family that would interact with them. Other friends were mixed-race between blacks, Hispanics, and Korean. Their closest friends that Luke and LingLing had were Joe and Dolly Prairie, a kind couple with a daughter named Amanda, who was a week younger than Mai’Lena. LingLing met Dolly in the produce section at the Brooklyn supermarket in the early year of 1946. It was a cold winter as they chatted out of the checkout area, the automatic doors, to the parking lot next to their vehicles, and they instantly became friends.

On the first night they socialized, Dolly and LingLing introduced their husbands, but they already knew one another from the war. Joe was one of Luke’s comrades that was the first to see Luke and LingLing together but held them at gunpoint. Which was a story that they laughed about humorously. Luke felt blessed that they had great friends they could trust. They remained friends up to when Joe became ill and passed away, leaving his wife and child suddenly alone, but he made sure that financially they would be safe. Amanda was only eight years old when she lost her dad, and internally she took it hard. LingLing often invited them over for dinner, and Mai’Lena shared her room with Amanda on most nights to show that they were not alone since they did not have much family around. Three years later, Dolly healed from her loss and met someone new, but Luke did not trust him. Therefore, he kept an eye on Dolly, Amanda, and the new guy.

Mai’Lena and Amanda attended an all-black school up to their thirteenth year. Nevertheless, among other parents of different races outside of whites, Luke wanted more for their children since they were all middle-class. Therefore, they chose one of the best white schools in Brooklyn that was only a few blocks away from their homes, which was closer than the all-black schools, and each parent or parents wrote letters to the board of education. Since Mrs. Maller was a part of the board of education and well known to the principal due to her and her husband’s enormous donation to better the high school, she vouched for them with solid reasoning on why the children should have the same equal rights of education. Her argument succeeded, and each young teenager was able to begin their educational experiences at a prestigious, all-white school, whether some of them were starting as freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or even seniors. It didn’t’ matter, and they all were excited. Sadly, Mai’Lena and Amanda stood in front of the school on August twenty-eighth with two of their close friends, Dustin and Irene Mahogany. Behind them were four associates, Sung Lee, Byron James, Saleema Esposito, and a foreign exchange student Doireanne Anglin from Dublin, Ireland, who resided with Sung Lee. They became uneasy with large groups of white teenagers on either side holding up protest boards with hateful words written on them as they made known to them in various ways that they did not want them there.

Ain’t that a bite, Dustin commented with a hint of anger in his voice.

We’re not wanted here, Irene, the younger sister of Dustin, told them with worrisome, so let’s cut out before they try something.

Mai’Lena lifted her head high and confidently said, We have the right to be here as much as they do, so let’s show them that we belong. Without any eye contact, she asked them, as she focused more on the entrance doors of the school and the reassurance of Mrs. Maller’s happy expression straight ahead of them, You guys dig me?

Dustin half smiled as he answered for the rest of them, Yeah, Mai, we dig. Let’s get inside.

They started their walk cautiously, but a medium cup of soda thrown at Mai’Lena stopped her in her tracks. The cold liquid fell upon her natural chestnut, flawless face, parts of her party printed dress and black natural curly ponytail in scattered masses. Laughter erupted from almost every white teen. With anger, she slowly turned her eyes to the blond-haired girl on her left who laughed with three of her friends and did not feel surprised by her adverse action, for she was Cassy Maller, who had been a rival since their younger days. Mai’Lena breathed out while shaking her head, but then she rolled her eyes when she detected the tall, blond-haired boy, Jacob Maller the twin brother of Cassy, scolding her for what she did.

Are you alright, Mai? Amanda asked as she pulled out her handkerchief from her leather backpack and wiped away the sweet liquid on her face.

A senior boy set his peepers on Amanda and smiled as he clutched his red apple tight in his hand and prepared to throw it. Yet, Jacob, who stood between him and his sister, caught his wrist before the apple loosened, then he said in a harsh baritone voice, Are you cruisin’ for a bruisin’?

The guy narrowed his eyes as he chuckled, Not with her. Come on, man, she’s a color girl, a nobody.

She’s more than that, Jacob claimed, they all are, now back off. Jacob turned away to stare after Amanda as she walked with her friends towards his mother, who stood next to the entrance doors with the principal, teachers, and other staff to greet their new colored students properly. I promise Mai that I will look after you this time.

A week at the school went by, and most white students refused to warm up to their colored classmates. They declined to share the locker and bathrooms with them, so they had their own, a co-ed with private areas since only seven were there. It included bathroom stalls as well. The cafeteria was the central part of the school that the white students did not want to share, and they made it known when they locked Sung Lee and Byron in the cafeteria and surrounded them. Two seventeen-year-old white boys almost attacked them when Sung Lee surprised them with martial arts. The two boys made a complaint against Sung Lee and tried to get him kicked out, but as the truth revealed itself, Sung Lee got off with a warning since he was only defending himself and his childhood best friend. The white students assumed that the separation was for their benefit, but it was not. It was for Mai’Lena’s and her friend’s protection. Mrs. Maller suggested giving the parents peace of mind that their kids would be safe.

After another week arrived, it became clear that the white students had to share the cafeteria, but that did not mean for them to engage with those that were colored if they did not want to. That was how Mai’Lena and her friends ended up with their table directly in the middle of the lunchroom, but it did not bother them. Mai’Lena and Amanda got settled at their lunch table with their trays of food that the lunch lady almost refused to give them, although the federal government paid for their meals. Mai’Lena was not a typical young teenager that cared for affection from people besides her loved ones. Her parents raised her to be brave and strong so that she could be ready for the cruelty of society, which was why she sat at the lunchroom table at one of the best schools in Brooklyn. She grew up as a Godfearing girl who studied her bible with Amanda as often as possible. She focused mainly on God, school, and her future personal relations with the male existence were far from her mind. Well, at least that was her mentality until he arrived. She noticed Jerry Mallette, the new guy who came to Brooklyn from Los Angeles two weeks ago, entering the cafeteria and headed to the line for his tray of food that he had purchased. Mai’Lena tried to hide the shock on her face as she suddenly witnessed the lunch lady’s full smile and rosy cheeks that brightened with redness. Okay, that’s odd. She never smiles at anyone, but who am I kidding? Jerry Mallette is definitely, a guy who is worth a smile. He spun around and first made his way to the table with a group of rebel boys that sported their greased hair swept back with long sideburns. Jeans and t-shirts under leather jackets were styles that some girls found attractive, but to Mai’Lena, she was not too sure. She almost moved her eyes away, but he did not sit with the rebels. Instead, one large hand-carried his tray as he headed for the table with the jocks, but on the way there, he politely smiled at Cassy and her friends as he passed their table. In a dreamlike state, Cassy and her friends gawked over him. Okay, they’re becoming too cranked over him. I mean, yeah, he’s handsome with his typical teen boy style, toned body, clean, conservative haircut, and slacks with a button-down shirt. An eye-opening urbanity that she realized he exclusively was bold enough to sport, interesting. Her face hardened when he set his tray down at the jock table and high-fived Jacob as if they were the best of friends already. Not connecting her eyes to her friend, she asked, although she already knew the answer, Who’s the new jock? She tried to disguise her interest with disgust.

Unfortunately, Amanda saw right through her, He’s a hottie, isn’t he?

Mai’Lena quickly answered, Don’t become cranked over him, Mandy. I simply asked who he was because it’s my first time seeing him.

Amanda defensively held up her hand, Okay. Goodness, don’t have a cow.

Besides, Mai’Lena continued, You’re the one who’s flipping your lid over his looks.

Amanda admitted to her quietly but openly, I’m not flipping my lid, but yes, I think he’s a dreamboat and not afraid to admit it. Unlike someone, I know, but you know I secretly like the white boys. Then, she disappointedly reminded, although they hate us.

What are you talking about, Mai’Lena commented more like a statement as she studied Jerry, he’s white with a California tan.

Girl, Amanda argued back, he’s not white. He’s got to be mixed with something because he has a brownish-yellow tone to his skin. Amanda smiled as she realized what her friend had discovered.

Big deal, Mai’Lena responded after throwing a french fry in her mouth.

Uh, it is for you since you already knew he came from California? She watched her friend roll her eyes.

Just a word from the bird, Mai’Lena shrugged her shoulders as she said.

Oh, come on, Mai, look at him, girl. Amanda informed in a whispered, animated, mezzo-soprano voice as her round-chocolate brown eyes widened with excitement, He’s a tall, muscular stud that I’m sure can razz any girls’ berries, and he’s only a senior.

A senior? Mai’Lena’s outburst turned heads in their direction.

Cool it, girl, Amanda giggled as she said, goodness can you be any louder?

Mai’Lena squirmed in her seat from lack of composure and self-consciousness that caused her cheeks to flush as she glanced around to see all eyes traveled to her, including Jerry’s. As soon as her eyes connected with Jerry’s, she quickly looked away and noticed Byron was about to get bullied by the athletics team, which often happened, and certain teachers did nothing about it. Oh no, she uttered out.

What is it? Amanda asked with alertness.

She gestured with her head as Mai’Lena pointed out to her friend, The jocks are about to make a scene.

Poor Byron, Amanda sympathetically replied, something needs to be done about this.

They usually don’t bother him when Sung is in here, Mai’Lena mentioned as she wandered her eyes to the short lunch line for their Korean friend, so where is he?

Amanda shrugged her shoulders in reply, Don’t know.

Undoubtedly, one of the jocks, Victor Washington, waited until Byron approached the table where he and his friends sat. Then, he tripped him. Byron’s tray slipped out of his hands, flew into the air, and landed on the floor with a loud crash five yards away from where he lay. The majority of the cafeteria erupted into laughter. After his hysterical laughter, Victor lifted Byron to a standing position, Oh, I’m sorry about that flake. Let me help you up. After pulling him up, one of Victor’s friends joined in the humiliation.

With a carton of chocolate milk in his hand, the guy replied, Cast your eyeballs on his shirt, Vic. You got it all dirty. Let’s clean it off for him. Both guys poured their chocolate milk on Byron’s head.

With anger, Mai’Lena said to her friend, this is not cool. Bravely and confidently, she rose from her seat and power walked over to Byron.

One guy proclaimed out loud with a chuckle, Color virgin alert.

Ignoring his offensive comment, Mai’Lena grabbed Byron by the hand and told him, Go sit next, Mandy. She waited until he walked off and then loudly said to Victor and the other guy who poured chocolate milk on Byron, Look, I know that you guys don’t want us here, but that shouldn’t give you a reason to act like creeps.

Victor slowly moved towards her as he spoke in a sultry baritone voice, Hm…your feisty, for a color chick. Behind her, he sniffed her hair as he made his way around her and said in her right ear, I dig that about you, but don’t get all worked up for nothing.

Jerry did not show any amusement in Victor’s despicable conduct. Instead, he stood to his feet and prepared himself to defend Mai’Lena if necessary.

Jacob invited himself into the confrontation, Yeah, Mai, don’t take everything so personally.

Heat flushed through Mai’Lena’s body, and with fire in her eyes, she combated in a quiet tone, You’re a bunch of demons. Do you know that his dad passed away, and his mother married the guy she was having an affair with? He’s going through a lot. So, have some doggone compassion.

Victor lifted one eyebrow and said without remorse, That’s his problem, not ours. The other guys chuckled at his comment.

On the other hand, Jacob commented softly, Wow, I had no idea.

Of course, you didn’t, Mai’Lena snapped out, because when you’re living on your high horse, the cares of us color folks are far from your mind.

Ooo..., Her color friends chanted in unison.

Unexpectedly struck with a sudden wonder as his athletic-built body became stiff and rigid, Jacob gave her an incredulous stare and replied in a hurtful tone, That’s not true, Mai. I’ve always accepted you guys. You know that.

Yeah, okay, Mai’Lena rubbed her right neutral arched eyebrow as she said quietly, refusing to see the truth in his words, then demanded, Look, just leave him alone, you dig? She did not wait for feedback and confidently walked away with her head tilted back.

Impressed by her, Victor whispered to his friend with a sly smile, I definitely have dibs on that one. He and his friend chuckled.

Jerry stared hard at Victor as he caught onto his words, closed his fists, and cracked his knuckles on both hands.

After Mai’Lena returned to their table, Sung Lee rushed over to comfort their friend, as most of the students eye-balled them harshly and asked with anger, What did they do this time?

Since Byron remained quiet, Mai’Lena explained what the jocks previously did to him in front of those present in the cafeteria as she and Amanda wiped away chocolate milk off his face.

You okay, By? Sung Lee asked his friend in his strong accent.

Byron quietly answered, his eyes focused more on the floor, I’m cool.

Saleema rubbed Byron’s shoulders and whispered close to his ear, Don’t worry, By, those low lives will eventually get creamed.

Sung Lee did not hear what she whispered into Byron’s ear, so he turned his attention to Mai’Lena and Amanda, Thank you both for your help.

Hey, it was all Mai, Amanda honestly announced to him as she tried to rid his button-down, light blue shirt from chocolate milk. Her vision evaluated Saleema’s angry manner and appearance after she overheard the whispered words directed only into Byron’s ear.

With a smile, Sung Lee said back, Well, thank you anyway.

Mai’Lena gave him a pleasant smile as she said, We stick together, remember?

Of course, Sung Lee commented back in agreement, then he, Byron, and Saleema took their seats at the table.

Mai’Lena can feel distinct eyes burning the back of her head after she sits down in front of Amanda. Sensing where the eyes were coming from, she slowly looked back at him. The masculinity of the way he sat in his seat with so much dignity created a vigorous perception of her rapid heartbeat. As they observed each other from afar, they almost smiled at one another when they deeply breathed in and out at the same time. Instantly, they felt they were the only ones in the cafeteria.

Amanda tossed a French fry at her friend for attention and then said to her in a playful voice, You’re casting your eyeballs at him.

What, She began to say, as Mai’Lena pried her gaze away from him by rolling her eyes, no, I’m not.

Jerry cracked a half-smile.

Oh, my goodness, Amanda whispered, Mai, they are looking this way, girl, and they’re not mean looks either. She looked closely at them, blowing kisses and winking at them, I think they’re actually flirting.

Mai’Lena turned her head to skewer the jocks with an unflinching glare and wrinkled her eyebrows as she commented in suspicion, Really, they must be chit-chatting about us, which won’t be the first time. Since they’re always plotting ways of getting us kicked out of this place. She shook her head at Jacob, guiltily waving at her with a frown but only twirled back around.

Yep, it’s so obvious that we’re their main topic, Amanda giggled.

Mai’Lena eavesdropped on their conversation since their tables were not too far apart, and when she made out what they mentioned, her nostrils flared in anger. Godfearing parents raised her and Amanda and taught them to always stay pure before God and treat their bodies like the temple that God designed them to be. The light that shined upon them allowed everyone else to see that they were too innocent to be sexually active like most students were. So, they became known as the ‘color virgins’ to everyone other than their friends. At least, those were the exact words that escaped from Jacobs’s mouth as he tried to converse with Jerry privately. Although they were colored, most of the guys at Jacob’s table could not help but notice their beauty which Mai’Lena showed more through her spunky confrontation with Victor. They cheered and whistled at them as they kept their conversation targeted at them. Amanda giggled as she waved at them, but Mai’Lena slapped her hand.

Ouch, Amanda gasped in pain aloud and then asked, What was that for?

You’re sending them the wrong idea, Mai’Lena told her.

Amanda argued back at her, I’m not. I’m simply waving at them and smiling.

As Mai’Lena gathered her belongings and an unfinished tray of food, she said, You can’t do that because they are mindless jocks with hidden agendas who can’t stand the sight of us. She rose to her feet, walked away to empty her tray, and headed toward the exit doors.

Jacob climbed to his feet and smoothly walked over to Amanda. He sat in front of her and gave her a full smile as he tried to charm her. Hi there, dolly.

She returned the smile and then commented with sarcasm, Dolly is my mom’s name.

Oh, I’m sorry, He apologized in a breezy, baritone voice, Amanda, how are you today?

She gave him a sly grin and proclaimed directly, I’m blessed and highly favored. How about yourself?

With hesitation, he implied back, I’m...blessed as well, I guess.

Amanda looked up to see Cassy, the head cheerleader, with her friends giving her and Jacob dirty facial expressions. Bothered by their cruel attentions, she looked away from them and impatiently asked Jacob, What is it that you want, Jacob?

He chuckled as he glanced back at his friends. Jerry rolled his eyes as the rest of the jocks cheered him on. Facing her once again, he inquired, Have you been to the Zoo?

Baffled, she tilted her head to the right, narrowed her eyes, and pursed her medium natural heart-shaped lips at him before answering, Yeah, when I was seven.

He softly laughed at her words and wrinkled his arched, straight nose while he mentioned, No, not that one. The one I’m referring to is a club, and it’s the hottest place in Brooklyn.

Amanda pretended to be intrigued by his invitation, Oh, that sounds hip.

Jacob commented, his face inched closer to hers, Oh yeah, it’s definitely hip. So, I’ll pick you up on Friday night. Overly assertive, he rose to his feet, almost not giving her a chance to accept his offer or not.

Quickly, Amanda objected before he could walk away, No.

Jacob bunched up his thin eyebrows as he turned back around to face her with an aggrieved attitude, then he repeated as a statement, No.

Repeated in a louder tone, she exclaimed, No.

He could feel the heat scorching his peach cheeks as he glanced to his chuckling friends, then back to her, and fretfully questioned in a bleak emotional voice, What do you mean ‘no’?

Amanda calmly explained sharply and forthrightly, You must really think I’m stupid, Jake. I know what you’re after, and you’re making it pretty obvious with your jock friends.

Look, Jacob quietly spoke animatedly to her, I only want to hang and have fun with you.

Rolling her eyes and shaking her head, Amanda rose to her feet as she pointed out, I’m a color girl Jake, which means that we have nothing in common, so how on earth would we ever work. Besides, your idea of fun is the complete opposite of what I have in mind. I’m not like these other girls who give into your sweet smile, sexy, suave demeanor, and velvety voice so that you can get what you want, disrespect me, and then brag about it to your little friends. It will take more than that for me to go out with a doggish, mindless jock like you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have better things to do than waste my breath on someone who doesn’t listen. She grabbed her belongings, tossed her empty tray on the used pile on top of a stained trash can, and exited through the double blue doors.

Jacob turned to his friends and witnessed that Jerry was laughing.

Come on, Jake, Victor angrily spoke, will you let a color girl embarrass you like that?

Jerry made sure that Jacob did not answer, so he commented, Wow, Jake, you are very smooth with the ladies; we all should learn from you. The rest of the guys, besides Victor, began to laugh and make fun of Jacob. Nevertheless, the only action he took was to walk silently out of the cafeteria with a red face.

Mai’Lena walked into class and noticed the disturbance on Amanda’s face; therefore, she asked her friend, Hey girl, you look like bad news. Are you alright?

She shrugged her shoulders and admitted, I feel bad. I completely humiliated Jacob in front of his friends.

Not that I care about how Jacob feels because I’m sure he deserved it, but what was your reason?

Because he is such an actor, Amanda frustratedly rushed her words through clenched teeth to the same degree of grabbing clumps of her dark brown, natural curly bob hair and looked up at the ceiling. He asked me out to a club called the Zoo.

I’ve heard of that place. Don’t know how you guys would’ve gotten in since it’s not a teen club, you know?

Big deal, Amanda exclaimed and continued, I told him no. There is no way he would settle for a color girl like me, so he’s only after me for one thing, Mai.

Of course, he is, Mai’Lena agreed, The white boys here can’t be trusted because they hate us and know what we’re all about. Also, don’t limit yourself in comparison to him because he’s the one that would be blessed to have you. Byron and Sung Lee cut off their conversation.

Byron said in a quiet tone, Hey Mai and Amanda, thank you for standing up for me. I owe you one.

Mai’Lena replied with a half-smile, one dimple appeared on her blemish-free right cheek, Don’t worry about it. Those guys are creeps and always prey on different and unique people. We’re suffering at this school together, so I got your back.

With a smile, Byron remarked, I’ll classify you as my beautiful guardian angel. He walked over to his seat at the appearance of the teacher.

An hour later, Mai’Lena and Amanda walked out of their math class into the noisy hallway and readied themselves for another day of insults and balled-up paper thrown at them. Those were the types of actions that took place every day from the first time they stepped into the school. Notwithstanding, that current moment was different for them. Just like Dustin, Irene, and Sung Lee, it became noticeable that they no longer were targeted. Mai’Lena and Amanda idly moved their eyes around them and saw that some white students were smiling at them, greeting them, or simply ignoring them. The fact of the matter was that their peers treated them respectfully, and they had no clue why. Mai’Lena asked with bewilderment, What’s going on?

A short, stout, hyper freshman with rosy cheeks over pale skin and a red curly high ponytail walked up to them and proclaimed with excitement, Oh my goodness, Amanda. I don’t care if you’re color. It was so hip of you to stand up to Jacob, the jerk. He deserved it. The girl hopped up and down happily.

Surprised by her compliment and enthusiasm, Amanda said, Um, thanks.

Mai’Lena commented to her friend as they walked away from the hyper girl, News and drama definitely travel fast in this school, but it’s better than having paper and pop cans thrown at our heads.

Amanda felt amazed, No kidding. Notwithstanding, her amazement ended when Cassy got in her face.

Now you listen here, virgin, Cassy snapped out at Amanda, I don’t know what stunt you’re trying to pull, but you need to keep your mouth shut. Jacob doesn’t need his reputation ruined by trash-talking little freshmen.

Amanda did not verbally respond, so instead, she smiled.

Filled with anger, Cassy abruptly questioned as she flipped her long blonde hair over her right shoulder, What are you smiling at?

Mai’Lena fought Amanda’s battles most of the time since she did not engage in a physical confrontation with other females, especially if they were white, since she feared that she might lose her temper and herself completely. Since Mai’Lena was working on forming a relationship with God, she did less fight herself. Instead, she learned reverse psychology and how not to speak out of anger; therefore, she talked to Cassy calmly, Look, Casey, Cassy, or whatever your name is, only Jacob can ruin his reputation with his own stupidity. So, mind your own business, and run along with your little paper shaker buds.

She moved close to Mai’Lena’s face as if she tried to intimidate her and threatened, Mai, is it? You better watch what you say and watch your back.

Mai’Lena smiled and combat before she turned to walk away, I may be color, but I say what I want and am not afraid to speak my mind. And may I be frank, God watches my back. She and Amanda both giggled as they strode away.

Awestricken by Mai’Lena’s calm attitude that Jerry had witnessed alongside other students also caught up in admiration, he half-smiled as he watched her walk away happily with complete confidence. She is no one that I’ve ever encountered before. None of them are. In fact, the color kids in Los Angeles only cried or ran away while being harassed, except for this group. Jerry’s slate gray eyes examined Dustin, Irene, and Doireann fearlessly standing among the white students conversing. How intriguing. Jacob stepped up to Jerry with hurt in his eyes. With great remorse, Jerry asked him, You cool, man?

Before an answer proceeded out of his mouth, Cassy rushed up to the guys and snapped out in a vindictive manner, Those girls have to pay.

Jerry rolled his eyes, Cassy, just drop it?

Yeah, woman, Jacob agreed with Jerry and then continued, I don’t need you to fight my battles all the time.

Cassy sighed and reminded him, You’re my twin. That’s what I’m supposed to do.

Jacob objected to her, No, you’re supposed to mind your own business and let me take care of my problems.

I dig that, bro, Cassy explained sympathetically, but as your twin, I feel what you’re feeling, which gives me the right to defend you when you’re not happy.

Touched, Jacob kissed her forehead before he wrapped an arm around her shoulder and gave her a brief hug, Don’t worry about me, sis. I can take care of myself. Just let it go. Then, he released her.

Cassy half smiled as she uttered, Alright. She changed the subject by turning away from her brother and focusing her attention on Jerry, then she seductively asked, So Jerry, are you going to Victor’s bash this weekend; I hear that it’s the bash of the year?

Jerry admitted to her suavely but carelessly, I don’t even know Victor like that.

You will, Cassy giggled as she walked closer to him, If you agree to be my date, I promise you’ll have fun.

Jacob sighed and said with a roll of his eyes, Ew...Cass, back off, my friend girl.

She pointed her forefinger in Jacobs’ face, Mind your business. What do you say, Jerry?

Jerry thought of how beautiful Mai’Lena looked to him. He thought of how burnished her reddish-brown skin looked and how it glowed into a rosy tint when they locked eyes on each other for the first time or how her honey voice sounded so calm and harmonious in his ear, and from that moment, he knew that he had to get to know her. So, he commented to Cassy, Sorry, Cassy, I may already have a date. He gave her a tiny half-smile as he walked away before the twins threw questions his way.

Mai’Lena and Amanda sat in their usual spot on the bleachers after school for their daily bible reading. They automatically assumed it would be the quietest place instead of going home, but as soon as the football team came out on the football field, the quietness was no longer there. Amanda proclaimed out in frustration, Ugh...who let the vultures lose?!

Mai’Lena pointed out, I thought their practice was canceled?

Let’s just ignore them.

Alright, what verse did I leave off at?

Amanda could not answer due to one of the football players’ loud, brittle words, Color virgins alert.

Mai’Lena looked heavenward as she responded, Ignoring them will be difficult. Let’s just get out of here. She rose to her feet but pulled back down.

Amanda let go of her friend after she set her back down and shrieked, No, it’s only the trick of the devil. We won’t let him get to us.

As he halted himself from doing push-ups, Jerry stared at her and spoke what was on his mind, but only loud enough for Jacob to hear, I have to get to know her.

While doing sit-ups, Jacob asked, Who?

Mai, Answered Jerry. He jumped to his feet and tried to make his way over to her until Jacob stopped him.

Hey, whoa there, Jacob blocked his way, you don’t want to do that. Those two are some tough cookies. Trust me. They will not give in. You saw how I was humiliated. Save yourself the embarrassment, man.

Jerry faced Jacob and pointed out, First off, you approached her the wrong way. Women like to be respected when you converse with them. Making them laugh and listening to them are the keys to getting their attention.

I hear what you’re saying, cat, Jacob cuts him off, but these are not women we’re dealing with. They’re young teenage girls who value their morals and virginity. Heck, they’re probably still wearing training bras.

Training bras, really, He said more as a statement with a chuckle, and then he scrutinized Mai’Lena closely by moving his eyes up and down her body until he landed them on her chest. He smiled as he could tell their fullness brought out a cone-shape, conical bra, hm, very eye-catching Mai. He ended his internal thought to imply, You could have fooled me, and who’s talking about taking her virginity? It’s not always about sex, Jake. I’m going over there. Jerry swiftly made his way across the field towards Mai’Lena and Amanda.

Amanda said to Mai’Lena, Oh my goodness, look who wants to chit chat.

Big deal, Without gazing up from her bible, Mai’Lena replied.

Jerry approached them and greeted, Hello ladies, how are you two doing today?

Oh my! The color on her face turned scarlet red as she bit down on her bottom lip because he spoke with the smokiest, with a hint of rasp to his voice that slapped Mai’Lena square in the face, but she hid her emotions by keeping her head down and into her bible.

Amanda answered him without matching her eyes, Do you really want to know, or are you trying to make small talk?

Jerry smiled and honestly confessed, I really want to know since you both had an interesting day.

Amanda connected her eyes with his as she told him, To answer for us both; we are blessed and highly favored.

That’s great to hear, actually, His eyes burned into Mai’Lena’s right cheek as he spoke and patiently waited for her eye contact, I’m Jerry Mallette, the new guy, and your names are?

Okay, say something, Mai. Mai’Lena swallowed her pride and nervousness as she finally spoke out without her eyes finding his at that time, but after she said. I’m pretty sure you know our names already, She lifted her head and met his gaze, but if you need a reminder of who we are, I’m Mai’Lena Virgin, and she is Amanda Virgin.

Better known as the ‘color virgins,’ Amanda announced without resentment.

Jerry opened his mouth to speak, but Victor cut off his comment by unexpectedly jumping into the conversation, Hey ladies, I hope you didn’t make plans this weekend because you both are invited to my bash.

Oh joy, Mai’Lena mumbled in a dull voice but loud enough to be heard.

How exciting, Amanda sarcastically pretended to be enthused, the only two-color girls that have been invited to a bash given by the most popular guy in school. Mai, we should be thankful.

Mai’Lena hid her smile by lowering her eyes but remained quiet.

Unfortunately, Victor was blinded utterly by their disinterest in his party and asked with a full smile, So is that a yes. Will you both come?

Jerry chuckled to himself, which was overheard by Mai’Lena, so she gave him a half-smile because Victor did not have a clue about their disinterest.

Mai’Lena cleared her throat to hide her smile as she asked, Victor, are you high?

Victor’s smile turned into a confused frown, Uh no.

Are you sure? Mai’Lena questioned as her gaze switched from Victor to Amanda, Jerry, and Victor.

He’s definitely high, Amanda replied.

Yeah, Mai’Lena began and then finished in a harsh tone, You must be high even to think that we’re stupid enough to step foot in your pad for a bash where all you people do is drink, smoke, and get frisky with one another. Thank you, but no thanks. We have better things to do with our time.

Victor commented to Mai’Lena, Better things like what; reading that? He pointed to the bible that Mai’Lena clutched in her hands.

Yeah, and your point is? Mai’Lena became offended.

It’s a drag. Ya’ dig? Victor insults God’s words, I’m offering you two an opportunity to be accepted by us. Coming to my bash would be a cool way to get to know the two most hot, colored girls in the school. Everyone won’t accept you guys, but I can help change that.

Reading God’s words is not a drag, Mai’Lena angrily spoke out for her and her friend, it’s salvation, and frankly, we don’t have to prove ourselves to you all. You can continue to be ignorant and not accept us because of the color of our skins, but you seem to be the type of fella my daddy always warns me about, which is someone we don’t need to hang with.

Victor gave them a cynical laugh before saying to her, Your time with me will be way more entertaining than that thing. He gestured to Mai’Lena’s bible.

Jerry usually was described as a passive, humble teenager who did not like to occupy his attention in a state of conflict between two antagonistic forces. He respected all women physically, mentally, and emotionally. Also, he was so charming to the point where older women found an interest in him. It took a lot for him to get mad, but there were moments when rude and disrespectful comments got under his skin. That was one of those moments. Jerry suddenly became angry at Victor, Are you completely delusional? Those are God’s words you’re talking about, dude. What the heck is your problem?

Showing perplexity, Victor whispered to Jerry so that the girls would not hear him, but they heard him anyway, What’s wrong with you? You’re supposed to be on my side, dude?

Sighing, Jerry calmly snapped at him, Why the heck should I be on your side? You didn’t die for my sins, fool.

You’re a cool cat, but you bug me, Victor said to Jerry before walking away from them.

Mai’Lena studied how Jerry’s chiseled jawline clenched, eyebrows furrowed, and sensed his anger, so she directed to him, Are you okay?

He slowly sighed as he gazed at her while he answered, Yeah, I’m cool. I get irritated when people disrespect God, you know? I mean, who is able to lay down their life for people who didn’t even exist at the time? He didn’t wait for a reply and answered for them, No one is able, but God is not just someone. He has proven so much to us. I tell you, we are a stiff-neck nation. Jerry realized his rambling of the mouth and apologized, I’m sorry, I don’t mean to bash your ears, and I know I shouldn’t let people like him get to me.

We get with it, Mai’Lena empathized and felt his sincerity.

I can tell that you read the bible, Jerry, Amanda told him.

Jerry responded, Well, I’m not a scholar, but I try to read as much as possible.

Mai’Lena looked at him before opening her bible back up to glance at a verse and said with a tiny smile, That’s better than not reading it at all.

Amanda asked him, Can you please explain this verse to us?

Jerry grabbed the bible and skimmed the verse, and then he stared into Mai’Lenas’ eyes as he gave a mutual declaration of the meaning of the scripture, but first, he said, Please forgive me if I’m wrong. I believe this whole section describes a woman full of great virtue. A woman who is pure at heart with the mind of putting the lives of others before her own. A woman who goes out of her way to please, protect, respect not only her loved ones but also the fortunate and unfortunate.

Mai’Lena attentively listened to the precise words that pensively came out of his natural heart-shaped lips, chills ran up and down her spine, and her breath shuttered as she breathed out to calm her rapid heartbeat. Oh no, Father in heaven, am I supposed to feel this way over a boy I barely know?

Jerry watched her uncomfortably shift in her spot and almost smiled as he continued, A woman who is a great stewardess to God and others. She not only fulfills her duty as a follower of God and a mother, but she also establishes a secure bond with her husband with trustworthy actions. His eyes remained in deep contact with Mai’Lena’s, Everyone views this woman as a true saint, full of pure virtue whose positive actions are pleasing to God. She does what a strong woman requires without stumbling or complaining, which allows her to be a virtuous woman. Full of love, trust, and honor.

Astonished, Mai’Lena stared at Jerry, and for a while, she had forgotten that her friend was present. Her blazed, staring eyes embedded into his gray orbs sparkled until she became captivated beneath the surface by him with hypnotism, to the point where she did not catch her name rolling off his tongue the first couple of times. When the third time came around, she snapped out of her dreamlike state and mumbled, Huh?

Jerry gave her a gentle smile and dulcetly asked, Are you okay?

Copasetic, She told him as she tried not to notice Amanda’s suspicious eyeballs on her. So, she cleared her throat and replied, I was just concentrating on what you were saying.

Jerry finally sat down, and his back turned away from the field so that he was in front of both girls for a more private conversation, and he asked, So, you agree with me?

Mai’Lena nodded her head, Surprisingly, yes. I admit that you’re biblically knowledgeable. I’m impressed, Jerry.

One of the football players ran up to Jacob and exclaimed, Cast an eyeball to yo’ boy Jake and the color virgins. He’s getting in there, man.

Jacob followed his gaze and watched as Jerry conversed with both girls without signs of embarrassment. Ain’t that a bite?! I’ve been knowing those girls practically my whole life, and they can’t stand the ground I walk on.

Victor overheard his friend and drew his attention to the girls and Jerry. His facial expression turned belligerent as he thought, I don’t know what your attentions are, Jerry, but I already got dibs on Mai’Lena. So, you better back off!

Jerry offered to Mai’Lena after catching the coach eyeball him and knew that he had to end his time with them. With Mai’Lena, which he didn’t want to, Maybe we can finish this conversation over some burgers tomorrow.

Whoa, is he asking me out? Well, I do like talking with him and enjoying his company, so why not? Mai’Lena was in the process of accepting his invitation; until she witnessed the eyes of the majority of the football team on them, pointing and smiling in their direction. Anger filled her lungs as she pointed out to him, Maybe not. Then she began to pack her school bag with her books and materials in preparation for her and Amanda’s departure.

Perplexed, Jerry asked her, What, why not?

As if you don’t know, Mai’Lena remarked to him and then realized the confusion in his eyes. So, she calmed herself and implied, Look, Jerry, if you want to hang with me, I suggest you drop the goon squad. She motioned to the guys on the field before she and Amanda climbed off the bleachers and scurried away.

Jerry turned his head toward his friends and rolled his eyes with frustration. He had it in his mind to try to catch up with them but gave up at the sternness on his coach’s face. Disappointedly, he watched as both girls climbed on their bikes and rode away.

Mai’Lena could not believe the knowledge that she had developed by reading. Nevertheless, two concerns bothered her. One was that she had a blunt spirit that needed to be corrected, and the other was the intense feelings that she carried for a guy she barely knew. At first, like window shopping, Jerry was only enjoyable to the eyes. Nonetheless, after familiarizing herself with the idea of his knowledgeable spirit in the bible, she noticed there was more to him. In a nutshell, she became afraid. That night Mai’Lena prayed to God for strength to not give in to the temptation of any kind that would block her from inheriting the kingdom. Especially when she recognized the physical reaction of her body in the presence of Jerry, so for her to conquer, she would need to put distance between them.

On the following day at school, Mai’Lena tried her best to avoid Jerry; however, it did not work because he was extremely persistent. He tried to converse with her the moment they locked eyes in the school parking lot, but she ran off before he could climb out of his vehicle and make it over to the vintage bike racks. He also tried to wait outside her third-period class, but she rushed off through the swarm of students, making it difficult for him to keep up. On her way to the cafeteria, Mai’Lena stopped at her locker to put away a few books, and then she spotted Jerry as he made his way to her. Wow, he won’t give up. She sighed and prepared to ignore him, but he caught her arm, which kept her from running away.

Jerry gently turned her towards him to gaze upon her face as he said to her with minor irritation and more divert in enjoyment, I know what you’re doing, Lena. You are making it hard for a nice guy to get close to you, but you can’t avoid me forever because I will continuously get under your skin until you give in.

Mai’Lena rolled her eyes heavenward and said with attitude. Go on. Keep pressing, and watch. You’ll just keep getting clutched. She remembered that her locker was still wide open, so she slammed it shut and tried to walk away, but once again, he gently grabbed her by her right arm to pull her close to him.

What do I have to do, He began, to prove that my feelings for you are real?

Goodness, he smells so good. Temptation surrounded her, so she became agitated and jerked herself away. Harshly she replied, Look, I know your type. I’m not stupid.

Offended by her harsh words, he crossed his arms over his chest and challenged, Is that right? What exactly is my type, Ms.-know-it-all?

Mai’Lena moved closer to him for a more civil confrontation as their classmates, mostly the girls, began to intrude, The type where you choose the least popular color girl in school for one particular reason to look macho in front of your friends. I may be young and color Jerry, but I’m not stupid, and I’m definitely not afraid to defend myself.

His empathetic bedroom eyes trailed the curves of her flawless, oval face, and his pupils dilated at the sight of her dark, crumb-sized beauty mark above the left corner of her top lip. Her beauty mark is