on the run || shuri x fem! reader
summary: in which shuri’s girlfriend is an american girl that she met through riri williams. while it’s no question that shuri loves y/n more than anything, the glaring differences between them are not so easy to ignore. when shuri surprises her girlfriend in america, the differences in their lives become all the more apparent after y/n brings shuri along to a party. when shit goes left and it leaves okoye with lots to say about y/n and her lifestyle, y/n thinks the best course of action is to dead things with shuri after insecurities that she had been burying rear their head. ( — or in which reader is a little hood and she thinks shuri is ashamed of that side of her )
warnings; SLIGHT ANGST , shuri almost gets MUGGED. riri dates a MAN that’s a warning all on it’s own. there’s a few remarks made by okoye about her being AFRICAN AMERICAN, some girls make some distasteful remarks to shuri as well. MENTION OF DRUG DEALING , reader and shuri have a real ass conversation about the differences in their lives. READER CARRIES A GUN ON HER AT ALL TIMES. sexual innuendos, but no actual smut. sorry poohs :(
timeline ; takes place in an alternate universe. shuri’s mother & brother are ALIVE. the events of WAKANDA FOREVER have not happened. NO BLIP! for story sake: shuri was born in ‘98, reader & riri were born in ‘01.
pairing; female ! reader x princess shuri
inspired by; PART II (ON THE RUN) by beyonce & jay-z. i been listening to it on repeat lately. i think conversations about the travesties from ALL sides of the diaspora. i think we often ignore it, especially when writing about these characters from wakanda, but it is important, and i like to make things realistic, even in the midst of the cutesy shit. this is one of my favorite works i’ve written so far, and i hope you guys like it too. listen to the song to get in the headspace.
dedicated to my literal muses, you guys are some of the most supportive & inspiring readers & writers i have ever met, and i am internally indebted to all of you beautiful people. love you long time… EXTREMELY LONG TIME. @shinsousliya , @verachii , @euphiea , @inmyheadimobsessed , @letitias-fav , @sweetalittleselfish-honey , @k3nn3dyxo ,@barkbarkbro , @n7cje , @rxcently
“Suck yu mada.” the snort that escapes you is deep, sticks right to your throat and echoes in the air around you. “Don’t be talking crazy to me, cause you’re fucking chicken heads.” your friend Tariq reaches over and flicks your ear. He was in the same grade as you, but you’d known him since before MIT. You’d known him since y’all was both little tykes, running after your dads tryna make something of yourselves on a block full of druggies and jailbirds. MIT was an accomplishment, for both of y’all. You were making your hood proud here.
Senior year was kicking both of y’all asses though. Especially Tariq who couldn’t sit still to save his life. He was always fucking some new girl, which is what you were teasing him over. “They ain’t all chicken heads.” he tells you and you nod in mock agreement. “My fault.” you say as he smizes. “Some of them are bucketheads.” at this Tariq barks out a loud laugh, pulling the spliff from behind his ear. “Yo, you got a light?” he asks and you pull it from your bra, handing it off as he curls up his nose. “Dirty ass nigga.” he grunts as you kiss your teeth.
“You know damn well.” you start as he immediately breaks out into a wide set grin. “If either of us is dirty, it’s you.” you remind him. “Can’t keep ya’ dick out a hole if somebody was fanning a band in ya’ face.” you say as he holds up a hand. “Pause.” he deadpans. “I don’t do no butt stuff.” he denies and you flick him right between the eyes. “Shut the fuck up.” you say as he laughs.
“How’s your old lady doing?” Tariq asks conversationally. He lights the spliff, pulling it up to his lips instantly. “Who Shuri?” you question and he shoots you a duh look. “Unless you smashing some other African bitch.” he says and you shoot him a warning glance. “She ain’t gone be too many bitches, yo.” you say and he smacks his teeth. “You know I ain’t mean that shit like that. I meant bitch, but like, lovingly.” he says and you roll your eyes, chuckling heartily. “She’s good. You know how that long distance shit be.” you say and he shakes his head.
“No, I don’t. I can’t believe somebody took yo’ horny ass out the game.” he mutters, smacking his teeth. “I used to look up to you, man.” he admits. “Talking crazy.” you wave him off and he shakes his head. “Nah, you had game lil nigga, if that shit wont gay as hell, it probably would’ve got me too.” he says and you roll your eyes. “You know you been wanting to smash, nigga. Don’t flex now.” you shoot back and he doesn’t respond. “You the homie, bro. I wouldn’t do that shit.” he says after a second, but you don’t believe him. “Besides, that princess seem to be treating you good.” he grumbles and you smile a little at the thought.
“She is.” you confirm and he cuts his eyes at you. “Sappy motherfucker.” he groans and you laugh. “Don’t be a hater all your life, b.” you tell him. “I heard ‘bout you and Ri.” you remind him and he adjusts a little in his seat. He lets some smoke float from his lips, it fans over your face and you grin. “Ri just the homie.” he denies shaking his head. “Lying ass motherfucker.” you say pointing at him. “I heard y’all the other night.” you say. Riri Williams was your roommate, you guys had known one another since Freshman Orientation.
“She was putting it on ya’ ass.” you remind him and he smacks his teeth again. “We ain’t talking about me though.” he deadpans. “We talking about you and your princess.” he reminds you. “What about her, nigga?” you demand. “What’s that like? Dating a bougie motherfucker?” he questions, and he holds the spliff out towards you. You take it instantly, grabbing for the lighter with your free hand as you reignite the flame. You fan it a little, forcing the fire to die down before you bring the spliff to your lips.
Tariq watches you closely, and you raise your eyebrows questioningly. You inhale deep, five seconds passing. You hold your mouth open briefly, holding your breath before you exhale. “Fuck you looking at lil ugly nigga?” you buck at him as he smirks. “Ain’t shit ugly over here, and you know that.” he says and you grin. “She ain’t bougie. Shuri different.” you tell him as you take another deep drag from the cannabis cigarette.
“Can’t be that different, she prolly ain’t never dealt with half the shit we dealt with. What y’all got to talk about?” he asks and you shrug. “We don’t be doing too much talking.” you joke and he curls his nose up. “Nasty,” he deadpans as you let out another laugh. “Look, I’m just saying, when you meet her you’ll see. Shuri’s cool.” you promise. “You think she coming to the slums to meet me?” Tariq asks with a dry laugh. “Nah, miss me with that. Silver spoon ain’t gonna last a second out here.” he denies and you cross your arms over your chest.
“You don’t even get it. She ain’t one of those cliché ass princesses. Wakanda different. Shuri can hang.” you explain. “So she met your parents?” Tariq questions and you purse your lips. “Actually, yes.” you answer. “Okay, okay.” Tariq nods his head. “She be inviting you to Wakanda? You ever met her parents?” he asks and it’s another question you don’t want to answer, but you do. “It’s complicated.” you reply shaking your head. “You ever wondered why?” he asks and you look down at the ground. he says and it shuts you up instantly. Tariq, while ever the pessimist, always kept your head screwed on.
“She know bout your… other job?” he asks and you cut your eyes. “Why would I tell her some shit like that?” you ask. “Cause she’s your other half, or whatever sappy shit you spitting.” he mocks. “You tell Riri everything you doing?” you ask. “Fuck no, cause whether she from Chicago or not, she ain’t in the life. Fuck I look like pulling her in some shit like that, nigga?” he asks.
“It’s the same with Shuri.” you reason. “Nah, because even still, I could trust Riri to hold it down. Small as she is, that little fucker’s got hands and mouth.” He reminds you as if you don’t know. “Your princess? She got loyalty to her people, she don’t give a fuck ‘bout no bitch from the projects. Not when it counts anyway.” he mutters. “She ain’t gonna know what to do the second a gun gets pulled, or the cops show up. She’s from a whole other world, yo.”
You frown deeply at his bluntness, noticing the ashes have started to collecto n the knee of your jeans. “Look, I ain’t mean it as harsh as that sounded, ma. If you like the girl, I’ll cool out, but you know as well as I do, if she come on that saditty shit, she get what she get.” he says. “Shut up.” you mutter and he cracks up. “So when am I gonna meet her royal highness?” he asks and he takes the spliff back. “When she get here, nigga. Don’t be checking for us.” you say and he rolls his eyes.
“Ain’t nobody studdin’ yo annoying ass.” he denies, hand waving tiredly. Your burner chirps in your pocket and you groan. “You betta answer, you know how they get.” Tariq mutters and you nod in agreement. You pick up the phone, holding it close to your ear. “Poppin?” you answer. “Don’t be answering me like I’m one of your bitches.” is the first thing that you hear. “Man, fuck you!” you drawl and you hear howling laughter on the other end.
“You heard from ‘Riq?” Roz questions, and you look over at the boy in question. “Yeah, that lil nigga sitting right here, what’s up?” you demand. “Reg is throwing some party tonight, need all his best pushers alibied up.” Roz explains lowly. “Need both you and ‘Riq’s asses here, get it?” Roz instructs informally. “Hurd you.” you reply. Eyes flickering to Tariq, who’s raising an eyebrow, earnestly trying to eavesdrop. “We’ll be there. Don’t trip.” you say.
“Good. Next drop is on Friday, you’ll be ready, right?” Roz asks. “Ain’t I always ready?” you ask. “Don’t get too cocky little nigga.” Roz had always been a bit of a bitch, you fucked with her mostly out of business obligation. “Ain’t shit cocky, I’m just good at my job. You know that.” you rebuttal. “Yeah, whatever. Don’t be late.” she bangs on you instantly. “Dumb bitch.” you grunt as Tariq lets out a loud laugh. “What she want?” he questions. “Reg want us at some dumb ass tonight.” you mumble and his eyebrows raise.
“The block is hot, some shit’s going down tonight, and we all need an alibi.” you explain dryly. “Drop’s Friday though, means new product, these white kids can’t feen enough for that shit.” you proceed as Tariq nods along. He douses the spliff, letting it drop into the ashtray. “White people love they drugs.” he jokes as you nod in agreement. “You think Tony Stark was snorting coke when he was here?” you question as Tariq barks out a noise. “You’re dumb as shit, nigga.” he mumbles. “I’m asking.” you exclaim.
“He probably was.” Tariq agrees after a second with a thoughtful nod. “Exactly.” you’re buzzing as you turn to face him fully. “You bringing Ri?” Tariq looks you up and down. “Why you so worried about Riri?” he asks. “Cause she feeling you, and I know you feeling her. Maybe getting some smart girl coochie, will set you straight.” you tease as he swats at you. “Man, whatever. Ri’s cool.” he agrees with a nod. “You think she feeling me foreal?” he asks and he looks smug.
“Yeah, but you can’t play her like these other broads, Riri’s too nice for that. She’d also probably fuck your stupid ass up for trying.” you tell him and he nods. “Yeah, her little ass’ll probably be the one to get me on the straight and narrow road or whatever.” Tariq agrees. “Have me picket fencing and shit.” he cracks a small smile. “Yeah, Riq. You deserve that shit.” you reach over and clap his shoulder and his grin grows. Tariq wasn’t a bad kid, not in the slightest. He had a ducked up family situation.
The same way he was your rider, you were his. Y’all looked out for each other. Watched each other’s backs. It had worked all your lives. Your personalized Kimoyo Beads begin to chirp loudly on your wrist, and you already know that it’s Shuri calling. “A’ight, nigga, I’ll see you tonight.” you stand up, reaching out to dap him up. Your hands collide crisply, before you grip the underside of his fingers, pulling back before you snap your fingers.
“Yeah, make sure you dress pretty, show these bitches how to really step.” he says and you snort. “Whatever, nigga. Just make sure you wash ya’ ass, can’t get no pussy if you smell like three cans of bounce that ass. Dutty bwoy.” you tease as Tariq’s face lights up. “Ya done out ‘ere fam!” he exclaims, swinging for you. You dodge him with a loud laugh, leaving his apartment behind. You shut the door behind you and smile slightly. Your Kimoyo Beads are still chirping, and you light up as you answer.
“Usana, you scared me.” Shuri mumbles as soon as her projection appears. “Sorry, ma. I got a little caught up.” you apologize as you head for the steps. “Caught up?” she mimics you and you nod. “Yeah, I was hanging with my nigga, Tariq.” you say and she shoots you a look, but says nothing. “Where you headed?” she reroutes and you grab your phone. You check the time before you look at Shuri again. “I have this thing tonight.” you explain carefully.
“So I’m just gonna head to my room, chill for a bit before I go.” you explain. “What sort of thing?” Shuri questions, curious as ever. “Just some thing for my uncle, he’s having a little party.” you answer vaguely. “Ah.” Shuri nods in understanding. Reg was nowhere near you’re uncle. But it was the best cover story, especially for Shuri, she’d ask too many questions if she knew who he really was. Slight lies never hurt anyone. “What about you, baby? How you doing? Feel like I haven’t had time to talk in forever.” you say, and it’s true.
The last few weeks had been busy with all the weight you’d been moving. “I know, I’ve missed you.” Shuri mutters with a sigh. “Well, if you would just come to see me, we could both get what we want, right?” you had been trying to convince Shuri to come see you for months. It had been almost three since you’d last seen her in person. “You know I would if I could.” she reminds you. “I know.” you agree with a nod.
You’ve finally reached your car and you’re thankful you don’t have to walk anymore. The days of walking from place to place had thankfully managed to be put behind you. “I just really miss you.” you mutter and Shuri frowns, and it’s one of your least favorite looks on her. “I miss you more, my love. Of course I do.” she insists. “It’s just complicated.” you finish the familiar phrase before she can. “I know.” you sigh deeply. “Look, I’ve gotta go. I’ll call you when I can, okay?” you say and she seems to deflate.
“Please don’t be upset with me, nksozana.” she pleads. “I’m not. I understand, I promise.” you say. “I’ve gotta go.” you repeat and she inhales sharply, nodding her stiffly. “I love you.” she says and you smile faintly. “Love you.” with that you let the call disconnect before you can feel any worse. This was one of the few downsides to dating Shuri, not to account for everything Tariq had said.
You and Shuri were from two very different worlds. Always had been. Shuri had been born into luxury, she was the Princess of an entire nation. She had guards that tracked her every move, she had more money than the richest man in the world. She was the little sister of the Black Panther. She was a genius, a technological innovator. She was in many ways out of your league. The fact that you hardly saw her only fueled the insecurities that screamed that you were a placeholder for who she’d fall for.
You were undeserving of her, and you knew it well. You had been born to a drug dealing dad that put you on to game. You were the oldest girl, the only one your dad could count on to hold shit down in this way. Your big brother was mother was a praying woman. She tried to pray your way out the life, but praying hadn’t ever payed the bills. It never put food on the table for you and your siblings, so she let you rock. Even though it killed her, even though she knew there was only two places that dealers wound up.
The short drive from Riq’s apartment to your own is spent quietly, you don’t even turn on music. You’re more focused on getting home and regrouping. Tariq’s words about Shuri were really doing a number on you. Maybe there was a reason Shuri had never brought you home to meet her family. It was likely the reason you hadn’t bothered showing off your block when she came. You park in the lot designated for you and Riri’s apartment, shutting the car off with a sigh. You call Riri, and she picks up on the third ring. “Hey, baby girl.” Riri coos.
“Hey, are you home?” you question as you step out of the car. “Yeah.” she replies. “Just going over some shit for class.” Riri’s little twang comes out as she speaks, and it makes you grin. “Can you open up for me? I left my key inside.” You admit and Riri snorts. “Yeah, I gotchu.” She says with a nod before you hang up. As you head towards the entrance to your apartment building, you think about the shit ton of homework you had to make up. Life was getting so real, you were busy, but you were certain you’d be graduating on time.
“Yo, MJ!” you see the tall curly haired brunette, you guys were in the same grade too. “Hey, Y/N.” she greets you with a shy smile. You pass her on your way up towards the buzzing doors. You slip inside, and head past the front desk towards the elevator. Hell no you weren’t taking no damn steps. You hit the button for the eighth floor, ignoring the glances from the white bitches that lived a floor under you. They always had some slick shit to say about Riri, so you wasn’t rocking with them. The ride is mostly quiet, you know they’re staring hard, but you had always been taught staring didn’t mean shit, it was the words that mattered.
These bitches knew better than to say anything, so they never caught smoke from you. They’re silent all the way up to the seventh floor, and they scurry off with glances thrown between them both. Snarky remarks singing on the tip of their tongues, but like usual, they say nothing. That was just the way you liked it. Once the elevator opens on the eighth floor, you’re already brainstorming outfits for the party tonight. Most of the other distros dressed exactly like what they were. You might’ve pushed weight for sheisty niggas, but you was never gonna look like some random bitch off the block. Your mama taught you better.
Upon reaching your apartment you hear music on the other side, and you snort. Riri was always filling the spot up with some of your favorite songs. You turn the door knob, stepping inside as you call out for Riri. “Yo, Ri.” you exclaim, but you’re met with silence. You kick your shoes off right by the door, locking the door behind you. “Riri, where your short ass at?” you call again, rounding the corner. The living room was big, the entire place was luxurious. It might’ve been dirty money, but it sure as hell paid for a lot of the shit you needed. And you loved Riri like a sister, you were gonna spoil her anyway that you could.
“Yo.” you spot a figure sitting on the couch and your eyebrows furrow. “Riri, you ain’t hear me calling you?” you ask, but you’re thrown off when instead of seeing Riri, you see Shuri Udaku. “What the fuck?” it’s the first thing you manage to exclaim. Shuri’s grin is shit eating as she looks at you. “Wasn’t expecting that.” she says through a laugh. “Shuri, what are you doing here?” you are on her in an instant, legs wrapping around her waist as she holds you up steadily. “Surprise, mntana oyimtombazana.” she whispers as you hold her tighter. “Oh my gosh! I can’t believe you’re actually here.” you peck her cheek.
From there it’s kiss after kiss after kiss left on her face, her neck, her forehead, anywhere your mouth can really reach. “I told you that I would if I could.” she reminds you. “Are you here alone?” you ask and she shakes her head. “I’m sure Okoye and Aneka are lingering somewhere.” she tells you and you giggle. “How long do I have you for?” you question, you play with her curls as you link your arms behind her neck. “I don’t leave until next Friday.” she says and your face lights up. Usually Shuri’s trips lasted a day at a time, so for her to be here so long, it had you buzzing with excitement. You kiss her on the lips finally.
She laughs in the midst of it all, kissing you back almost instantly. “Where is Riri?” you ask as you pull away, still wondering about the whereabouts of your roommate. “She stayed long enough to greet me and let me in, she said she had some errands to run before a big engagement tonight?” she trails off and you nod. “So Riq really asked her.” you grin to yourself. “That means we have the whole place to ourselves, right?” you ask and Shuri nods, a bit obliviously. “I don’t have to be at the spot until tonight, think you wanna help me waste some time?” you ask seductively, fingers tracing light circles onto her exposed skin.
“Was waiting on you to ask.” she mutters, and it’s like clockwork. “Ndise ebhedini mntanam.“ you whisper, hoping that your pronunciation was fine. “You’ve been practicing?” she asks and you nod your head. “Yeah, been tryna sound as sexy as you do when you talk to me like that.” you say and she laughs. She adjusts her hold on you, giving you all her undivided attention. “I think you have me beat.” she kisses you again, harder this time. “Wanna make you feel good, baby. You gonna let me?” she asks, always the chivalrous girlfriend. “Yeah.” you hate to sound so needy, but you’ve missed her more than you even understood.
“Damn, y’all was fucking like that?” Riri’s eyes are immediately drawn to the trail of dark marks and bruises that trace the expanse of your collar and neck. “Shut the fuck up, nigga.” you forewarn as Riri snorts. “Had to get my ass out the house, I knew you two was gonna be fucking like rabbits, the second she called me telling me she was coming.” Riri says and you roll your eyes. “You kept that shit on lock though, I ain’t suspect a damn thing.” you tell her and she laughs. “Keep shit on that lock and key.” she reminds you. “Where’s Tariq?” you ask. “Pulling the car around.” Riri replies. “Where’s Shuri?” she asks.
“Getting ready.” you reply to her. “You sure about bringing Shuri tonight?” Riri asks and you shrug your shoulders. “Shouldn’t be nothing. I know these cats, most of ‘em all bark.” you say. “And the ones that aren’t?” Riri asks. “You know I keep something on me.” you tell her bluntly. “Ain’t shit gonna happen to Shuri, I mean that.” you say firmly. “A’ight, I feel you.” she says in agreement. A few moments later, Tariq is opening the door to the apartment. “Damn, nigga.” he appraises you first, and you dap him up. “You look clean!” you retort as y’all run through your handshake like normal. “Preciate it, scrub.” you reply as he laughs.
“What about me?” Tariq’s eyes fall to the short brunette. “You know I was getting to you.” he says as he bends over to kiss Riri on the lips. “You look good as fuck, mami.” he says and you smile slightly at the exchange. “What’s the hold up?” he turns back to you once he and Riri are done with their make out session. “We just waiting on Shuri.” Riri explains as she wraps an arm around his waist. “Wait? Shuri Shuri?” Tariq asks, eyes falling to you. “Yeah, seems Ri and Shuri were plotting behind my back, set up a surprise.” you answer coolly. “So she here?” Tariq asks and you nod. “Just waiting for her to get ready.” you reply.
As if on cue, Shuri steps out of your room. She’s wearing an oversized black jacket, with white stitching that created abs upon her chest. She looked too good. “Too much?” she asks upon noticing your stare. “Hell no.” you retort as you cross the room to meet her. “Damn, baby. I ain’t know you had it like that.” you say as you take both of her hands into your own. “You look so good.” you lean in and she greets you with a kiss. It’s just as hungry as all the others you’d received that day had been. You weren’t pent the fuck up. Remembering your audience, you pull away and lead Shuri towards Tariq and Riri.
“Baby, meet my rider. This is my best friend, Tariq. We’ve known each other since the sandbox.” you say and Shuri and Tariq are both staring each other down. It’s a balls match if you’ve ever seen one. Shuri cracks first, “Nice to meet you.” she says in the accent that you love so much. “Yeah, fo’sure.” he nods his head. “She talk about you all the time.” he nods his head towards you and you squeeze down on Shuri’s hand. “I can say the same. You are one of her favorite people.” she says and Tariq smirks a bit smugly. “I know.” he mumbles and you can feel the awkwardness all in the air. “So what, you think you can hang with us tonight?” he asks and Shuri looks over at you. “I have no doubt I can.” she says.
“That’s what’s up! Let’s roll.” he whirls around, arm draped across Riri as the duo begin to walk towards the door. Shuri’s not moving, instead she’s watching Tariq with knit eyebrows. “What is it?” you demand and she’s not giving you her whole attention. “He’s intense.” she mumbles and you shake your head. “He’s all bark.” you say and she snorts. “He likes you.” she says and you let out a quiet laugh. “Nah, Riq’s full of shit, he’s harmless.” you promise, but Shuri’s not convinced. “Have you two ever — done anything? Ever talked about — “ you cut her off with a sigh. “Look, when was a little younger, we tried it out.” you say.
“How young?” Shuri asks and you blink. “I don’t know, we was like in high school?” you say. “It was for a few months, it didn’t work out. We too different, or I guess, we too similar.” you explain. “It doesn’t matter now, Shuri, so don’t trip, please.” you say. She’s not looking at you, and you hate that. “Come on, mami.” you use your free hand to reach out and grip her by her chin. You force her eyes to face you, and you frown. “He ain’t nothing.” you promise and Shuri exhales before nodding her head. “Let’s just focus on the party, yeah? We ain’t gotta worry about him or anybody else, tonight. It’ll just be me and you.”
Shuri smiles brightly at this. “Oh, yeah?” she asks and you nod. “All night.” you insist and Shuri leans in to kiss you again. “Masihambe.”
“Okoye’s gonna lose her mind.” Shuri whispers to you as you pull up to the building. You had decided to drive rather than ride with Tariq and Riri, it made it easier just in case shit went left, or you felt a little too pent up to wait til you got home. “Okoye will have to get over that shit. You with me, I got your back, baby.” you promise as you look over at the girl as you shut your car off. The streets in front of Reg’s house are littered with cars, there are loads of people out on the steps, already drinking and chatting it up as music streamed through the windows. “I’m not worried.” she denies shaking her head. “I trust you.” she adds.
“Well that means everything.” you say with a doofy smile on your face. “I would never let no shit happen to you.” you promise, and you reach over and grab her hand. “But I gotta be honest, mami. Shit can go left really fast around here, I need you to stay near me. These niggas will do anything for a come up and the second they clock exactly who you are, they’ll start moving funny.” you explain bluntly. “Stay by me, understand?” and Shuri hates that she’s suddenly on edge. “Usana?” she says and you press your lips into a thin line. “It’ll be fine.” you reassure, and you bring her hand up to your lips, kissing the back of it.
“Hour and a half tops, then we can roll out, yeah?” you promise and Shuri looks unsure but agrees. “I’ll have to check in with Ayo and Okoye, of course.” she says and you nod your head. “I get it, I’m lucky enough that they trust me enough not to roll up on us.” you say. “It’ll be fine.” you repeat and she nods in agreement. You bring your hand up to cuff her face, pulling her into a kiss. Shuri kisses you back instantly, a quiet moan escaping her, and when you try to pull away she’s back on you in an instant. It takes all your willpower to get off her. “Missed this.” you whisper as you peck her in between each word.
“Missed this too.” she says and you feel like some sappy little schoolgirl. “I still can’t believe you’re actually here.” you say under your breath. You can’t take your hand off her face, it’s almost impossible to pry your hands away. “I’d be here all the time if I could be.” she says and you huff quietly. “You don’t mean that, Boston ain’t for you.” you tell her and she giggles. “Maybe not, but, I just mean that I’d be wherever you are if I could.” she explains. “Oh? I got it like that?” you tease and she rolls her eyes. “Do not be cocky.” she warns. “I ain’t being cocky, mami. I’m just stating a real fact.” you insist as Shuri flushes.
“How many times you make me cum earlier?” you cock your head to the side as you examine her fully. Shuri’s stare was always intense, it was usually hard to keep eye contact, but you gave her the satisfaction of holding all your attention. “F-Five.” she stammers and you nod in agreement. “Yeah, treated me so good.” you mutter. “Maybe if you’re good while we’re here, I can return the favor.” you say and Shuri immediately tugs down on her bottom lip. “Fuck.” she says and you laugh, you kiss her again, only to be interrupted by a hand pounding on the window. You wrench apart, eyes falling on Roz at your window.
You shoot Shuri an apologetic look, rolling the window down. “Fuck is it?” you demand. “You supposed to be inside, nigga. Not out here slanging.” she deadpans, eyes flickering to Shuri. “Yo?” she looks from Shuri to you. “Is that-” you cut her off instantly. “Have some discretion, and get some fucking business, my nigga. We’ll be in when we in, alright?” you say as Roz smacks her teeth. ‘Reg ain’t feeling it. He want to see you.” she explains and you huff. “Heard you, just give me a second.” you say and she nods stiffly. She stalks off and you mutter a small curse under your breath. “Who’s that?” Shuri asks.
“Roz. Uptight bitch, ain’t nothing else to it.” you mumble. “Look, let’s go.” you sigh even deeper, opening the car door and stepping out. You round the front of the car, opening Shuri’s door for her and helping her out. Always the chivalrous girlfriend. “Remember what I said. Stay near me.” you remind her and she nods, lacing your hands together as you lead her from the parking spot across the street to the house. You guys get a few stares, that’s to be expected. “Ayo? Is that the Princess of Wakanda?” some loud mouthed dude is screaming, garnering more attention, and it makes you roll your eyes.
“There goes the neighborhood, these niggas can’t stay quiet for shit.” you complain and Shuri lets out a quiet laugh. “Were you really going for discretion?” she asks and you look over at her. “I mean, your face card gonna have niggas cutting up regardless, but it would’ve been nice to actually get into the building before these assholes started cutting up.” you say and she nods in agreement. “So this is where you from?” she asks and you shrug. “More or less.” you reply. “Originally I’m from Queens.” you explain. “It’s all relocation.” you explain to her. “Everyone swears they leave the city for a better life, but-”
Shuri watches as your face screws up. “It’s more or less the same here.” you proceed. “MIT is doing a lot of good for my block.” you tell her. “Me and ‘Riq. Our family counting on us to live good lives so they can feel better about the fact that they never made it out the ghetto.” you say and Shuri’s eyebrows furrow. “But that’s their own fault, isn’t it?” she asks and you shake your head. “Things are different here, baby.” you start off. “What do you mean?” she asks and you don’t think this is party conversation. “Just trust me on it.” you say, Shuri was inquisitive, it was one of the things you liked about her, but you couldn’t have her asking questions now. It wasn’t something she needed to worry herself about.
“I’ve heard things about the lost tribe.” Shuri explains to you. “Oh, yeah?” you play along and she nods. By now you’ve made it all the way inside of the house. It’s littered with people you recognize, some new faces are gawking. That’s to be expected. You know that the real party’s in the backyard, so that’s where you head with Shuri. “Thought you got lost or something.” Tariq is outside surrounded by some of the other distros, the boys that hit licks and stood at the corners. They were all chatting up animatedly, an appreciated change from constant screaming and fighting. “Yeah, I guess Roz did too.” you tell him.
Roz is watching you and Shuri from her spot with Reg. Reggie was your connect, he was the man you got all the product from, the one that stayed on your ass when it came time to push. “That fucking bitch.” he grumbles before his eyes fall on Shuri. “Man, you look like a fish out of water.” he comments. “She’s fine, ‘Riq. Lay off.” you warn and he holds his hands up in surrender. “She said she could hang.” he reminds you and Shuri interjects. “I can.” she insists. “Shouldn’t you be worrying about your date, rather than what we’re doing?” she says and you smirk a bit proudly. “Yeah, how bout I do that.”
Tariq offers you another glance before he’s off. “You want a drink or anything?” you ask and Shuri curls her nose up at you. “You’re underage.” she reminds you. “Not here.” you deny. “And this is what you do? Go to house parties and drink?” she asks and you shake your head. “Parties aren’t really my scene at all.” you deny and she listens thoughtfully. “But my unc’ said I needed to be at this one.” you nod your head towards Reg. “He’s your uncle?” Shuri gives him a once over. “He looks like a thug.” she says and you tense. “Yo, chill.” you tell her. “He’s just a little rough around the edges. He’s a businessman.” you say.
“Yo, Y/N/N!” your focus is suddenly on Diana. She’s someone you’re familiar with, she had been trying to get at Tariq for a while. “What’s up, Di!” you say and you let go of Shuri’s hand long enough to hug her. When she steps back, her eyes are on Shuri. “Hang on? You’re princess Shuri!” she says and Shuri smiles slightly. “This my girlfriend.” you introduce. “Baby, meet Di. She one of the homies.” you explain as Shuri and Diana pass off greetings. “How yo’ ass bag the princess of Wakanda?” Diana asks. “I guess I just got game like that.” you tell her and she rolls her eyes. “You good for Friday, right?” she asks.
“Uh.” you spare a glance at Shuri who’s listening intently. “Everything’s straight. I’ll be there.” you say and Diana nods. “Good, it’ll be normal protocol.” she adds and you nod your own head. “It was a pleasure to meet you, Princess.” she bows her head a little at Shuri. “See you, Y/N/N.” with that Diana stalks off and Shuri turns to you. “What’s Friday?” Shuri asks. “Just a work thing.” you explain and that’s enough to appease her. “Aye, niecy!” Reg calls, there’s an array of eyes fall on you instantly. Including Tariq and Riri. “What up, Unc?” you mumble, playing it up as you lead Shuri through the maze of drinking people.
Shuri does look like a fish out of water, and you’re suddenly regretting your decision to bring her with you. If shit went left, if anything happened to her, that would be on your head. “Who’s your friend?” he scrutinizes Shuri, the girl, who stood at 5′8, standing up all the more straighter as she glares him down. “I’m sure you’ve been made aware.” she mumbles, eyes flickering to Roz. “Hmm.” Reg lets out a quiet scoff and you turn to look at Shuri. “Aye, relax.” you whisper. “It’s all good, they’re harmless.” and it’s another lie, but it’s one you need to tell her. Reggie was as dangerous as they came, he would kill her and not even bat an eye about the fact that she was royalty. He was fucking mental.
“Yeah, we all harmless round here, princess.” Reggie mutters. “I just make it my business to know every broad that hangs off my baby girl’s arm.” Reg grunts and Shuri’s eyes are back on him. “I mean, you do know her reputation don’t you?” he asks and Shuri looks over at you. “Man, fuck you.” you trill as Reg waves you off. “She gets around, I’d be a little careful around this one, princess.” he spits her title like it’s poison and you tense up. “Don’t be a fucking dick.” you seethe. “Yo, you need to watch your mouth, lil nigga.” Roz cuts in and you scoff. “Y’all gonna get enough of that lil nigga shit.” you say.
Roz raises an eyebrow. “I ain’t nobody’s bitch, Roz.” you forewarn and she looks sour. “You wasn’t saying that when you was hitting me up for help.” Roz says and Shuri’s eyes widen. “Man, fuck you, Roz.” you deadpan. “You just mad that your tired ass was tryna hit and I wasn’t feeling it.” it earns a collection of “oohs’ from the nosy individuals straining their ears to get a bit of information. Everything with Reg came with a price, you were one of his top dogs, someone he regarded with much respect. People was always gunning for your spot, looking for any information they could get to knock you down a peg.
“How about you just worry about keeping his tip warm, yeah?” you caution as Roz sets a dark glare at you. “You don’t run shit over here.” you say, and you’re forgetting where you are. You’re forgetting who you’re with, you’re forgetting all about the girl you’d been when you first met Shuri. The studious girl that had such high hopes for her future. She was still in there, but these people had a way of pissing you off. They knew which buttons of yours they had to push to set you off. You never wanted Shuri to see you in this element. Going back and forth, calling girls out their name, it wasn’t the type of girlfriend you wanted to be.
“Alright, enough.” Reg says with some bass in his tone, and you lock your knees. No way this fool was gonna see you tremble. “We can all be cordial here, can’t we?” he stretches both his hands out. He looks from Roz to you. “Can’t we?” he repeats a little more sternly. “I’m cool.” you sniff quickly, eyes flickering over to Shuri who looks sour in the face. “Yeah, whatever.” Roz mutters. “You should learn some manners.” she says before she looks over at Shuri. “Don’t they teach that shit in Wakanda?” she rolls her neck. “Maybe you should learn how to control your bitch.” she says and you step in front of Shuri.
“Don’t address her at all.” you order and Roz smacks her teeth. “Why’d you even bring this bougie little thing up in here anyway, Y/N? Look at her, ready to piss herself off an argument. You don’t belong here, Wakanda. Why don’t you run on home to your mommy and your daddy.” she waves Shuri off dryly. “Actually, I think over there they call them niggas ‘Baba.” Rel’s voice catches your attention, he’s sitting a little off, and his dumbass remark gets some laughs. “Say some more slick shit, I dare you.” you warn as Roz laughs quietly. “This ain’t what you want.” she mutters and you cock your head to the side.
“Bitch, I will lay your ass the fuck out.” you promise. “Sithandwa sam, yehlisa umoya.” Shuri mumbles as she grabs your hand. “I’m cool.” you promise, not looking over at her. You don’t take your eyes off Roz, because you know she’s not done. “Let’s just go.” Shuri pleads. “You might wanna listen to your bitch.” Roz warns and you snap. Reg seems to be eating it all up. “There ain’t gonna be too much more of that bitch shit, I mean that.” you say as you snatch your hand from Shuri’s. “Y/N.” Shuri says, but you’re not hearing reason. You’d been looking for a reason to duff Roz up, and this was starting to look perfect.
“And if I say it again?” Roz says and you snort. “How about you cross that line and find out?” you offer. Reg finally steps in, standing to his feet. “Alright, alright. Enough, damn. This why you can’t bring bitches no where.” he says and he looks at you as if he’s daring you to say something. “Always goes left.” he proceeds his spiel. “I just wanted to give you your props, you and Riq been holding shit down for us over at MIT.” he says and you can feel Shuri’s stare glued to your face. “No doubt.” you mutter. “That’s all, nigga. Don’t be so uptight, enjoy the party.” Reg dismisses you and you exhale through your nose.
“I think I’m actually partied out, I’mma bounce.” you deny. “Nah, nigga. Don’t be like that. Come on, stay a while.” Reg’s tone tells you that there’s not much room for arguing. “You don’t wanna end up in something you can’t get out of right?” he asks and you know plain as day what the underline of that meant. If you left the party there was nothing stopping you from taking the fall for whatever fuck shit was going down tonight. “We have an understanding?” he asks and you purse your lips. “Yeah, nigga, whatever.” you turn on your heel, glare still in tact. Shuri’s trailing behind you like an extra shadow. “Sthandwa.” she mutters.
“I’on wanna talk about it.” you deny, but you know Shuri. She doesn’t take no for an answer, ever. “I think we need to.” she says and you stop just in front of an empty set of chairs. “What, Shuri?” you throw your hands out letting them fall and slap against your exposed thighs. “I feel like you haven’t been the most honest with me.” she mutters and you set your jaw, squaring your shoulders. “About what?” you demand as Shuri stands up straighter. “I am not the idiot you take me for, Usana.” Shuri reminds you and you shake your head. “Shuri, it ain’t even like that, okay? Roz just — she irks me.” you say.
“What did she mean when she said you were asking her for help?” Shuri asks and you sigh deeply, your hands clasp in front of you, resting just over the seam of your skirt. “My ma got into a little bit of trouble, Roz said she’d help me out, that’s it, that’s all.” you say vaguely, and Shuri’s looking unconvinced. “You’re not telling me everything.” she says and you exhale. “What you really asking me, bro?” you don’t mean to sound so defensive, but you hate being cornered like this. “What did you have to do in exchange for her helping you?” she asks. “It wasn’t nothing, Shuri, I promise.” you mumble and she takes a step back.
“But it was enough for her to bring it up now?” she says. “Enough for her to still have an effect on you, no?” she adds. “Shuri, if you think I slept with the girl, it’s not like that. I swear to God.” you promise. “So then what did you do?” she asks. You purse your lips, eyes falling to the ground. “I can’t tell you.” you know it’s the wrong thing to say. “Unbelievable.” she starts to walk away, and you know it’s a bad idea so you reach out and grab her before she can. “Baby, baby, listen.” you try, circling her so you can be right in her face again.
“I need you not to be upset with me.” you say. “Just trust that I would never keep something from you unless it was necessary.” you promise. “How can I trust you when it’s so clear you’re lying to me.” she frowns. “About who you really are. What you do.” she proceeds and you sigh. “Shuri, it’s real complicated, okay?” you try and she scoffs. “So try to make it less complicated.” she demands. “I have been nothing if not upfront with you about my life. Every part of it.” she says and you know she’s right, but it’s different. If Shuri knew what you had to do to get through school, if she knew what you had to do to survive, she’d hate you.
“Why can’t you just be honest with me?” she asks and you don’t have an answer. “Your cursing.” she starts and your eyebrows raise. “I always curse.” you remind her. “Not like that.” she corrects you and it shuts you up. “Threatening somebody’s life, Y/N? Come on, that’s not you.” she chastises and you feel shitty. “And I didn’t come all the way down here to see this person.” she motions to you. “I came to see my girlfriend, how about you call me when you find her.” she yanks her hand away from you instantly. “Shuri.” you mumble quietly.
“I’m calling Okoye, don’t worry about waiting around.” she begins to walk off and you curse under your breath. “Shuri.” you call, but she ignores you. “Fuck!” you mumble, Tariq’s words were becoming more and more real in your head. Even still, this neighborhood wasn’t the best one, Shuri would be a walking target out here alone. She oozed “rich girl”, even in the midst of all the ways she seemingly blended in. You pull your phone out quickly calling Riri. “Yo, you okay?” Riri asks. “Shuri’s leaving.” you say and you’re already making your way after her.
“What do you mean she’s leaving?” she asks frantically. “I mean she’s mad at me and now she’s leaving, Riri. I need you to stop her.” you plead. “Yeah, I gotchu.” she promises with a nod. “But you said she’s mad at you? Y’all just got here.” she reminds you as if you don’t know. “Let’s just say, Shuri wasn’t expecting her suburban bookworm girlfriend to tell another girl she’d lay her ass out on the yard.” you explain as Riri barks out a laugh. “Ain’t shit about you suburban.” she starts as you roll your eyes. “And what? Bitches starting shit?” she asks. “Cause you know how I roll.” she adds. “Just Roz dumb ass.”
You can see Riri’s eye roll through the phone. “Trouble in paradise?” Roz stops you before you can head for the exit. “I hope that ain’t have nothing to do with me.” she’s smirking and you want to slap the fire out of her. “Fall back, my nigga.” you forewarn and that only seems to fuel her humor. “Hope something doesn’t happen to your Princess on her way out of here.” she says and you’re lunging before you know it. “Whoa, whoa, whoa. Calm yo’ small ass down.” Tariq is the one that holds you back, a circle forming as folks wait to see what’ll happen. “Let me go, Tariq. I’mma put a bullet between her eyes, I mean that shit.” you exclaim. “I’d like to see that shit.” Roz taunts and you jerk in Riq’s hold.
“Bitch, say something else. I fucking dare you!” all the while Tariq is leading you out of the backyard, back into the house. “Let me go, nigga! Let me fucking go!” you exclaim. “Nigga, I need you to relax.” he hisses once you’re in the front yard. “You tryna get a fucking target on your back?” he questions. “I already got a fucking target on my back.” you remind him. “That bitch been had it coming.” you say and he exhales. “That may be true, but you gotta think a little smarter, Y/N.” he says and you huff. “You lay hands on Roz in front of everyone they’ll be on you in a second.” he reminds you. “I don’t give a fuck!” you clap your hands.
“Well you should, because it’s not gonna be a good look. For you or for Shuri, your girlfriend.” he reminds you firmly. “I sent Riri after her, did she find her?” you ask hopefully. “I ain’t heard nothing.” you say. “Look, I can’t have her out here by herself, Riq.” you say and he sighs but nods along. “Be careful out here, man.” he warns and you nod. “Gotchu. I’ll see you later, alright?” you promise and he daps you up. “I mean it, Y/N/N. Be careful.” he repeats. “I gotta find her, Riq.” is all you say before you turn on your heel. You head across the street to get into your car, and you’re ringing Shuri on your Kimoyo Beads.
“Come on, baby. Come on.” you mumble once you’ve made it to the third call. “I don’t want to talk to you.” she says when she finally answers. “Fuck, Shuri! You can’t go AWOL like that, especially not here.” you say. “I don’t understand why it’s such a big deal, you brought me to this party with you, didn’t you?” she reminds you. “Yeah, Shuri. But you walking off in some neighborhood you don’t know? That ain’t smart.” you deadpan. “I’m not a baby.” she tells you. “In fact, I’m actually older than you, and you seem to be forgetting that.” she says sternly. “Shuri, you’re a Princess.” you remind her.
“Whether or not you wanna remember that, it’s the truth. You ain’t just some regular broad out here.” you don’t mean to yell at her, but you’re worried. “I can take care of myself.” she denies. “Shuri, enough of this. Where the fuck are you?” you demand. She hangs up on you instead. “Fuck!” you exclaim, and you’re speeding down the street. The roads were a maze, it was easy to get lost quickly. You dial up Riri and she immediately picks up. “Yo, Ri.” you say. “I know where she’s headed. She told Okoye to pick her up from S/N, the one around the corner.” Riri explains. “She ain’t give me nothing else.” Riri adds.
“Nah, Ri. Thanks, you’ve done more than enough.” you insist. “I’m sorry I couldn’t stop her.” she says and you smack your teeth. “Don’t trip, Ri. Thank you.” you hang up with that, because you know where she’s headed. The shop was one of your favorites, you’d mentioned it to Shuri once or twice. The drive is about nine minutes, the walk is forty five. No fucking way you were gonna have Shuri walking up the street alone at night. There’s a dimly lit street that leads towards the store, and that’s where you swerve. You spot a group of girls cornered up and you feel all the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
When you were eight years old your mother taught you how to shoot a gun. While she hated the life that had been chosen for you all, she knew it was necessary for you to be able to protect yourself. You don’t think you have enough time to call your mother to talk you out of some crazy shit. With that in mind you park lopsidedly, shutting the car off before you step out. The street is mostly deserted, but you can hear the commotion now that you’re out the car. “Leave me alone.” that’s Shuri’s voice clear as day.
“Nah, run that watch, bitch.” one girl says, there’s four of them circling her. Where was the Dora? Where was any fucking body when you needed them. “I really need you all to back off.” Shuri warns. “Or what? What you gonna do?” there’s a girl with a buzzcut that’s stepping closer. You’re trying to move as fast as you can, everything feels like it’s in slow motion. The slightly older girl wasn’t incompetent by any means, you knew full well that she could take care of herself. She was street smart, but she wasn’t the most experienced with fighting. Which is where you came in. “Back up.” Shuri says a touch louder.
“Nah, miss thang. I don’t think we will. Now I think she told you to run us your shit.” the girl exposes a razer, and all sorts of sense leave you. The gun slipped in your pants is in your hands in a second. “You sure?” you mutter placing the barrel right up against the girl’s head. She freezes in place, the other three girls heads whipping to you in shock. “I think she told you to fall the fuck back.” you say aloud. Shuri’s eyes are on you and you’re not sure if she looks scared or relieved. “Shit.” one of the girls mutters under her breath. “Yeah, shit.” you repeat her. “Back the fuck up, I mean that shit.” you forewarn, head cocked to the side.
“Usana, thatha inyathelo ukuya ekhohlo.” you don’t take your eyes off the other girls, gun still ready, but Shuri listens all the same. Once she’s close enough for you to touch, you yank her harshly, pulling her behind you. “Now, y’all wanna be civil?” you demand, eyes on them. “Ain’t shit civil while you got a gun on us.” one of the girls mumbles. “Y’all the slimy bitches that was tryna jump an innocent girl.” you correct. “You’re lucky I ain’t laying y’all asses out for the disrespect.” you deadpan. “You ain’t bout it.” the largest girl denies. “What’s stopping me from slitting ya’ bitch?” she asks. You aim between her feet and pull the trigger.
The scream of shock is what settles you in place. You can feel Shuri’s terror from behind you, it’s rolling off of her in waves. “You wanna try again?” you question, eyebrow raised. There’s nothing more to say. “Bounce.” you demand, pointing the gun. It takes a moment, there’s a tense stare off, a battle for dominance. “Did I fucking stutter?” you exclaim. “Get the fuck out of here ‘fore I put a bullet in y’all fucking heads.” you warn, and they listen. They file out one by one, and you keep your gun up to keep them from making any moves.
Your free hand out to keep Shuri far away from any of them. The last one is lingering, and you know what it is before it happens. She’s on you in an instant, pocket knife slicing right through your arm. It’s a deep lunge, you know there will be blood the second you feel the heat of the knife dragging through your skin. “Fuck!” you rear back and hit her in the socket of her eye with the gun, next hit slamming against her temple. She crumbles to the floor and you’re automatically backing up, backing into Shuri who’s trembling as her arms wrap around you. “Ingaba ulungile? Ingaba ulungile?” Shuri asks, pain evident in her voice.
“I should be asking you.” you say as you turn around to face her. You peel forward long enough to cut the safety off your gun and slide it back into your holder. Once that’s done you slam a hand over the cut. “I’m not the one with a cut in my arm.” she tells you. “It’s my fault.” she starts and you smack your teeth. “This ain’t nothing, Shuri.” you shake your head. “Why do you do that? Downplay every bad thing that happens to you like it’s normal?” Shuri demands. “Because it is, and that’s what you’re not getting.” you snap. “Shit is different here, Shuri. Been different, always gonna be different.”
Shuri rears back at this. “We ain’t in Wakanda, niggas drop dead every day over fuck shit like walking down a street they ain’t never been on before.” you say. “When I told you to stay beside me, I meant that. But you didn’t.” you say angrily. “You think I just be talking shit just because?” you ask. “Y/N, you lied to me!” she reminds you. “So you decide the best thing for you is to just leave?” you exclaim. “What if I hadn’t fucking found you? What if they had pulled a fucking weapon on you, Shuri? What then?” you say and she doesn’t have an answer. “There’s no warriors stationed on every corner.” you tell her.
“There’s no fucking Black Panther here to save you. What the fuck would you have done, Shuri?” you ask. “Do you know what I would’ve done. Had I not made it to you? Had I found you passed out, or worse, dead? Do you know what that would do to me. How it would affect me? How about if I hadn’t found you at all, Shuri. Did you think about what you were doing to me when you stormed off?” you ask and she’s shocked, intensely so. “Your gadgets can’t do shit if somebody’s got a fucking gun to your head.” you say. You curse under your breath before you step away from her, heading for your car. “Let’s fucking go.” you shout. “I’m not playing.” you add and she follows you, albeit silently.
Shit was officially fucked.
“Ngendiyithembile isigwebo sam.” Okoye’s tone is sharp as she glares down at the Princess. “Your mother didn’t think it would be safe. A week trip in America.” Okoye scoffs and Shuri’s standing up straighter. You left the room, you had been so heated with her you didn’t even want to talk once you’d pulled up at your apartment. You’d been the one to call Okoye, you’d been the one tell her what happened. You knew what it would mean. “She didn’t expect for this to happen.” Shuri tries to stick up for you. “Oh she didn’t expect it?” Okoye is not budging on her stance. “She is hardly fit to take care of herself.” Okoye spits.
“Had you listened to me or anyone for that matter, maybe your girlfriend would not be dressing knife wounds.” Okoye proceeds. “Enough, Okoye.” Shuri exclaims. “She got that protecting me.” she reminds the General. “After putting you in imminent danger herself.” Okoye argues. “What person with good sense would think to take a Princess into such an environment. Certainly not someone who cares about your wellbeing.” Okoye proceeds, seemingly more angry with every passing word. “We’ll be returning to Wakanda at once, and I will be reporting to the King and your mother, with the advice to never allow you back.”
Shuri’s head jerks back at this. “I am not a child, more importantly I am not your child.” Shuri denies. “No, but you are in my care. You are my responsibility. And I would rather you hate me, than stand by and allow some Thug to end your life early. Some dope slinger.” she bellows and it sends Shuri right into silence. “She’s not like that.” Shuri denies. “You are too close to the situation to see it for what it really is.” Okoye tells Shuri. “She’s not like that.” Shuri says more firmly. “I can not allow your fleeting emotions to blind you from the truth.” she says. “The truth that Y/N is a dope slinger?” Shuri mutters sarcastically.
“A thug, just like the rest.” she adds with some venom. “Thug?” your voice catches both their attention. The classic case of miscommunication, of course you’d come in right now. You’re standing at the doorway, and you’re chewing on your bottom lip. “Damn, y’all.” you chuckle before you rub your face tiredly. “I ain’t know that’s what you really thought of me, Shuri.” you say sadly. “You misunderstand.” Shuri tries. “No, I don’t think I do.” you deny shaking your head. “And you’re both right.” you start lips poking off to the side. “Fucking with me ain’t gonna do nothing but get you hurt.” you continue, anger rising slowly.
“I mean that’s all we are over here, right?” you ask. “That is not what I meant.” Okoye tries. “I know what you meant.” you cut her off firmly. “What you think I’m an idiot? All this Lost Tribe bullshit?” you huff through your nose. “Just admit you think she’s too good for me and we can move the fuck on.” you challenge. “I do.” Okoye replies and you’re not surprised, though it still hurts. “Okoye.” Shuri says. “I know what you do, Ms. L/N.” she says standing up a bit straighter. “How you spend your days, yours nights, your weekends.” Okoye approaches you. “When you’re trying to convince Shuri you’re working.” she adds.
“You are the last thing she needs.” Okoye says and you purse your lips. “Her family agrees.” she adds and that’s the final nail in the coffin. “So why don’t you tell her what you do, Ms. L/N, enlighten the Princess on who you really are.” Okoye says and Shuri’s looking at you. “I’m a thug, Shuri.” you mock. “You heard the lady.” you lick over your chapping lips, eyes dropping to the bandage on your arm. “The sooner you figure that shit out, the better. You can move back to your normal life.” you add and Shuri’s shaking her head. “Usana.” she starts, but you cut her off. “Dead that lovey shit.” you tell her sternly and she flinches.
“She made all that shit clear.” Shuri turns to Okoye. “She does not speak for me.” she tells you. “Oh, yeah? Cause when you saw those folks at the party you said the same shit. Called Reg a thug, just off how he looked, Shuri.” you remind her. “Maybe all you Wakandans think the same about us out here. We all just thugs, no good dope slingers that ain’t ever gonna be good enough for people like y’all.” you feel yourself on the verge of tears, but you’d heard this enough to keep your composure. “You don’t know what it’s like for the rest of us.” you explain. “Outside of your security blanket, outside of your fucking bubble, life happens.” you say, and you don’t try to dial back to the venom in your tone.
“Out of everybody, I never thought I would get this shit from y’all.” you mutter. “Tariq told me this would never last.” you motion between you and Shuri. “I tried to convince myself he was tripping.” you chuckle dryly. “Tried to convince myself that the only reason I hadn’t met your folks yet was because of the distance, but now I can see what it really was.” you stare falls on Okoye. “You got it, man. She can check dating me off on her list of experiences to make her feel more connected with the outside world. I’m off this.” you press your lips together again. “If y’all done, y’all can step. I got shit to do tomorrow, and at this point you still being here is about to be considered trespassing.”
You leave the room, heading for Riri’s, anything to get you away from them before you broke down. Shuri’s following you, tripping over herself trying to catch up. “Uthando lobomi bam, nceda.” she calls and you scoff. “Translate, I don’t speak, Xhosa.” you tell her dryly. “Do not be like that.” she pleads. “Be like what, Shuri?” you snap. “I heard you, okay? I heard all of it.” you say. “Say no more. Go on back to your fancy fucking castle, and leave me the fuck alone.” you say and she flinches again at your tone. “I did not come all this way just to lose my girlfriend.” she denies. “If I remember correctly, you’re the one that said this wasn’t her.” you motion to yourself. “But that is me, Shuri.” you add.
“I do whatever I have to do to survive. That’s my life, my big fucking secret. I lie because I don’t want you to see me like someone that’s not good enough for you, but that’s what it is. I carry a gun, I shoot when threatened, I do bad shit, Shuri, all for the sake of surviving. You ain’t ever gonna have to deal with that. You got two parents that set you up for life. You the smartest motherfucker in the shit. You been building and inventing since you were a fucking kid, with all the resources you would ever need to thrive.” you curl your nose up. “It ain’t like that round here. Round here, you gotta take what you want.” you say sharply.
“Do whatever you can to ensure that you ain’t never the nigga caught on the bottom.” you proceed. “We on two different sides of the war, Shuri. That ain’t ever gonna change, so just do yourself a favor and bounce. Ain’t nothing good ever coming out of this side.” you’re thankful Riri’s away, it gives you the space to step into her room and slam the door in Shuri’s face, the quiet lock, the last thing she hears before your quiet sob. It breaks her heart, but she doesn’t have time to think about that, because Okoye’s leading her out of the apartment. Out of Boston, out of your life. With no real way to ever make it right again.
It’s exactly one week and a half later that you see Shuri again. She’s waiting for you outside of your school, right by your car. “What the hell are you doing here?” you demand, and Shuri’s surprised at your tone, only slightly. “Why do you think I’m here?” she asks and you scoff. “I don’t got time for guessing games, Shuri. And you’re sitting on my car, so you better have a good reason.” you say as you stand in front of her. “The last time we talked you did not give me time to defend myself.” she says. “There ain’t nothing to defend, Shuri. I was done listening.” you tell her. “But that’s not fair.” she says and you smack your teeth. “Bullshit.”
Shuri stands up, no longer leaning on the car. She shoots you a look, a look that’s managed to get you in check every time. You find yourself looking at the ground, and she takes that as a compliment. She still had an affect on you. “Okoye’s ignorance does not define my entire nation.” she begins. “But it defines enough, because you and her think the same way.” you rebuttal. “You came in at the wrong time.” Shuri says and you laugh, though it’s humorless. “Oh, should I have just waited until after you spewed all of your own ignorant rhetoric, and just allowed you to lie about how you really see me?”
Shuri inhales sharply. “I do not see you as any of the things Okoye said. I do not see you as any of the things that you said, Y/N.” Shuri promises. “I thought that I had done a good job of showing you how much you meant to me.” she says and you shake your head. “It’s bigger than words, Shuri.” you say. “But a few words were enough for you to end everything?” she claps back and you sigh. “Shuri, your people ain’t ever gonna accept me.” you tell her, and it shuts her up. “These wars of who’s doing it better, who’s doing things the right way, they’ve been happening since before me and they’ll be happening after I’m gone.” you tell her.
“Ignorance is not the loudest opinion.” Shuri tries. “Yes it is.” you argue. “All we get is ignorance, Shuri. That’s what you’re not understanding. Once you go back to Wakanda, you can hide behind your technology, keep the rest of the world out and never have to worry about any problems.” you remind her. You pull down on your lip. “I am not Wakandan.” you say showing her your lack of tattoo. “Not only would I have to deal with the noise from your people, I would have to deal with the noise of my own.” you explain. “That is not a fight I want to be part of. It’s better for all of us if you find yourself another girl.” you say and she stiffens up.
“A nice girl that would make your mama proud. A girl like Nakia, someone that knows your home, knows the culture, knows what it takes to be with a princess. Cause I ain’t that girl.” you tell her. “But I chose you.” she tells you. “We chose each other.” she expounds. “To hell with everything else.” she says. “Does anyone know that you’re here, Shuri?” you ask tiredly. “Or did you have to sneak away?” her silence is all you need. “Exactly, because deep down you know you would be ashamed to walk around with me on your arm.” she looks offended at the accusation. “Where it counts, Shuri.” you exclaim. “Would I have to worry about being labeled a friend in front of your family because you’re scared?”
Shuri’s mouth opens and parts like a fish out of water. “I ain’t nobody’s secret. Okoye was right, I’m not good for you.” you try to side step her but she reaches for you. “To hell with the rest of them.” she insists. “What do you want, Y/N?” she asks. “It doesn’t matter.” you say. “It’s the most important matter in the world to me.” she corrects you, arms draped across your waist leisurely. She’s not letting you go, and that much you’re certain of. “Shuri, I love you.” you say before you sniff. “But I’m not dealing with the noise.” you say. “Then let my love for you be the loudest thing.” she says and you curl your nose up. “Sappy motherfucker.”
She laughs at this, head dipping so you’re making eye contact with her. “I do not care what Okoye thinks, or what anyone thinks.” she proceeds. “You are eyona nto ixabisekileyo emhlabeni.’ she says and your confusion is adorable to her. “It means you are the most precious thing in the world.” she says. “I would die a thousand gory deaths before I let anyone take you from me. Black Panther or not. Resources or not.” she says sternly. “My family will just have to accept that. They all will, because you are not something I am willing to give up.” she says. “Don’t put your neck out for me, Shuri.” you say looking at the ground.
“Enough of this.” Shuri says sternly, and she makes you look at her again. “Okoye told me what it is that you do.” she says and you go rigid in her arms. “Because you believe you have to.” she adds. “It ain’t just for me, it’s for my family, my life here.” you explain. “Everybody does things that they believe they have to.” she says. “Whether in America or Wakanda.” she continues. “I am no better than you just because my shit comes with a crown.” this earns her a laugh and she smiles. “I want you to know you can trust me.” she tells you. “I want you to know that I would never do anything to hurt you either.”
Shuri’s eyes fall to the bandage still on your arm. “And the same way that you protected me is the same way I will protect you.” she stands up taller, hands falling to your ass at the change in stance. “Which is why I’ve come to ask you to come back with me to Wakanda.” she says and you blink. “Meet my parents. My Baba, my mother, my big brother.” she says and you almost can’t believe what you’re hearing. “Go to Wakanda?” you ask in surprise. “That is what I said.” she teases as you exhale through your nose. “I don’t know.” you shake your head. “Okoye seemed adamant. I don’t want no smoke.” you mutter.
“Okoye will have no choice but to accept this, they all will have no choice.” Shuri grabs one your hands in her own, bringing it up to her lips to kiss it. “I love you.” she explains. “More than anything.” she adds after a second. “I do not want to go on without you.” she tells you firmly. “I want you to be the person that I start to plan my future with, I cannot do that if you don’t allow me to fix some things.” she says and you listen thoughtfully. “Ignorance is the most harmful thing, but the best part about it is that it can be unlearned.” she tells you. “I will not expect complete forgiveness for my comment immediately, but I hope to earn your forgiveness, and I believe Okoye feels the same. She adores you.” she tries.
“You really doing all this over some little random bitch from America?” you ask and Shuri laughs again. “Not some random bitch.” she copies you, accent changing to mimic yours. “I’m doing all this over you. Umntu wam.” she says. “My person.” she translates and you smile vaguely. “I love you.” she says again, and she makes sure you’re looking right at her as she says it. “I need you to believe that.” you nod your head slowly. “Whether you come from money or you — or you don’t.” she says. “I respect you, Sthandwa.” she mutters. “I want to make this up to you.” she adds, her voice is lulling, almost hypnotizing.
“I have a few ideas on how you could do that for me.” you say as you lean into her slightly. “Oh, yeah?” she asks and you nod your head, hand moving to the back of Shuri’s head to pull her in close enough that you could kiss her on the lips. She pulls away quickly though, eyes falling back on your scar. “Wait.” she says and you look a bit confused. “I never got to thank you.” she holds your hand like it’s fragile, like it could break like glass at any moment. “You saved my life, despite my stubbornness.” she says and you want to wave her off. “Do not do it again.” she says words as sharp as the knife. “What?” you exclaim.
“I will not have my future, putting her life in danger unnecessarily.” she says like she’s scolding you. “I mean it.” she says grip on your chin intense. It burns your skin and makes you can feel it the second your body switches over. You can feel the heat pooling in your stomach. “Do you understand?” she asks and you nod. “That goes for fighting big mouthed girls too.” she says and you instantly think of Roz. “I’m always gonna protect you, Shuri.” you deny. “And you think I wont do the same for you?” she asks. “Protecting me is protecting yourself.” she tells you. “You asked me the other night if I knew what you would’ve done had I been hurt.” she paraphrases and she holds all of your attention.
“I have no doubt it’s exactly what I would do for you.” her eyes seem to darken as she says this. “My brother is not the only person that can protect people.” Shuri corrects. “And it was very foolish of you to believe that.” she adds. “Do not put yourself in the line of fire for me.” she reiterates. “I wont.” you promise. “I just didn’t want to see you hurt, Shuri.” you say. “But now you’re hurting.” she reminds you. “Feels better now that you’re here.” you say and it’s as corny and sappy as you possible can be. Shuri tended to have that affect on you. “Well then, if we both can’t manage to keep our hands to ourselves, we’ll just promise that no matter what we’ll make it back to each other.” she offers and you smile.
“Yeah, I like that.” you agree. “So do you forgive me?” she asks and you pretend to think it over. “I think you still got some groveling to do.” you say and she gives you a once over. “I have a few ideas.” she promises. “But I can’t promise you’ll be able to walk tomorrow.” she mutters before she leans in and kisses you again. “That’s exactly the way I like it.” you initiate the kiss this time, but you pull back after a second. “This is cute and all, but Okoye still gonna have to see me for all that shit she was talking.” you promise and Shuri laughs boisterously. “I have no doubt she’ll be expecting it.” she says and you smile again.
Though you still felt a little insecure about it all, being the girlfriend of a princess, when you yourself were just a college student trying to get by, the insecurities were quelled, at least for now, and that was what mattered. You knew it would be a bit of a fight, proving to everyone you deserved to be next to Shuri. Proving to yourself that you were good enough to love her, being with Shuri, showing her how much you adored her, and feeling that reciprocated, it was good enough for the moment. Everything else could wait, it was perfectly fine with you.
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