Epilogue - One year later

Tallulah stood at the podium. She looked out into the audience and cleared her throat. Next to her was a full blow-up of her book, Fighting My Way Back: The Lily Blass Story.

Chloe was serious when she told her to publish. She'd taken her advice and met with Owen Katz. He wanted her to write a book about Lily, and him, too. Lily had agreed as well. Chloe had taken the idea to Stanley, and he never looked back. He loved the idea. She asked Michael to edit the book. She couldn't think of anyone better. He readily agreed. They made a great team.

Stanley offered her a literary contract and advance. She'd agreed to write 4 more books for him. She still managed to freelance from time to time, but her life as a writer had changed. She was becoming known and recognized for her talent.

She was surprised at how many women of color had written to her about their experiences and how they, too, were told they sounded white. Zoe had given her the idea to start writing down their stories and compiling them for her next book.

"You have the title," Zoe said. "You Sound White."

Lily's career had taken off, and she was on an international tour. Between the magazine article, the YouTube video going viral, and the PR genius of Chloe, Lily Blass was becoming a household name.

She'd been surprised when Sylvia's attorney contacted her about her will. Sylvia had left her a fortune. At first, she was afraid to take the money, but Owen had convinced her of all the good she could do. She donated to the Marigold Shelter in the name of her mother, brother, and sister Sylvia. Anna had decided to name the new Shelter the Blass House. Lily also decided to take on the Blass name and released her first record as Lily Blass.

Tallulah had finished reading an excerpt from her book. She smiled as the crowd applauded. As she stepped down from the podium, Marc was smiling at her.

"You sounded great," he said.

"Thanks," she said, smiling back.

"Lunch?" he said.

"Okay," she said.

They held hands as they made their way through the bookstore. Outside, a black Town Car was waiting. The name on the side of the car read, "King and Queen Car Service".

Marc opened the passenger door for her, then ran around to the driver's side and hopped in.

"So, where to?" he asked.

"I feel like soul food, comfort food," she said, smiling.

He leaned over and kissed her. She kissed him back.

"I know just the place," he said, then put the car in drive.

<gdiv></gdiv>