Episode 1 of The Other Black Girl commences in the bustling offices of Wagner Books, 1988. Kendra, her face etched with panic, hastily stuffs a file into her bag and rushes towards the elevators. As the doors slide open, the scene shifts abruptly, transporting her to a subway train where she encounters eerie visions of zombie-like white passengers staring at her with unblinking eyes.
Flashing forward to the present, Nella Rogers rides the subway, engrossed in a manuscript. Upon arrival at the office, she pauses to admire the wall photos, straightens Kendra Rae Phillips' framed portrait, and then strides confidently into her workspace. After tidying up Vera's office, Nella is greeted by her boss just as she finishes. Excitedly, she announces the arrival of the new book, to which Vera responds that only the cover is missing.
Vera inquiries about the mockups, and Nella assures her they will arrive by day's end, having already taken care of the calling card. Vera then reveals that Richard is eager to have Colin Franklin's novel in copy editing as soon as possible. As Nella returns to her desk, Yang, her colleague, confesses that she would choose law school over book editing in a heartbeat. Nella pleads with her not to leave, as Yang is the only person she enjoys working with.
Vera instructs Nella to distribute invitations for Colin's announcement party, and just then, Sophie approaches her. Sophie inquiries about the article she emailed regarding the challenges of being black in a predominantly white workplace, emphasizing its importance and her desire to be an ally. She then hands Nella a manuscript to review.
As Nella sits back at her desk, the lights flicker, plunging her computer monitor into darkness. After a frantic struggle, she manages to restore the screen, only to be confronted with CCTV footage of herself in her work cubicle. Suddenly, the image turns into a blurry vision of Kendra, who seems to move whenever Nella attempts to touch the screen, filling her with dread. Yang inquiries about her well-being, and when Nella turns back, the screen has reverted to her home screen.
Later, as Nella returns from lunch, she senses a woman watching her surreptitiously. The woman swiftly lifts a keycard from a security terminal and follows her. In her cubicle, Maisy introduces Nella to her new assistant, Hazel, who turns out to be another black woman in the office. This unexpected sight leaves Nella stunned. Maisy asks Nella to show Hazel the ropes, and soon after, Nella boasts about Hazel to Malaika. Her boyfriend, Owen, joins the conversation briefly but quickly departs upon learning about the vandalized mural at their school.
The next day at work, Vera informs Nella that she intends to recommend her for the assistant editor position and seeks her opinion on Colin Franklin's book. She urges Nella to be honest and reveals that the sole black character in Colin's novel poses a significant issue.
Despite the paramount importance of diversity, Colin's portrayal of his black character as a damaging stereotype has left many black readers dissatisfied. Vera, cognizant of this concern, yet urges discretion, emphasizing that Colin's role at Wagner is crucial and that diplomacy is key to success within the organization. Nella, caught up in the office buzz, shares with Hazel her love for the renowned author Diana Gordon and her captivating novel "Burning Heart." As Hazel joins the Wagner fold, Richard Wagner warmly welcomes her. With invitations being dispatched, Vera firmly insists that Nella refrain from voicing her critique of the problematic black character in the book. Nella's heavy sigh piques Hazel's curiosity, prompting her to coax out the truth. The office buzzes with anticipation for the new book, leaving Nella in a dilemma; should she voice her concern about the detrimental portrayal of the black character, fearing it may tarnish her reputation as a culture-sensitive individual? Hazel, her steadfast ally, encourages her to speak her mind, promising to stand by her side.
As Colin strides into Wagner Books, the festivities erupt into a lively frenzy. Richard raises his glass, toasting Colin's latest addition to the list of number one bestsellers. Nella approaches the conference room, her heart beating rapidly as she hears Hazel, Colin, and Vera engaged in an intense discussion. Hazel turns to her suddenly, challenging her with a question about the book, stating that Nella has some profound thoughts to share.
Stunned, Nella gathers her courage, encouraged silently by Hazel's steady gaze. She dares to voice her concern, revealing that the character Shartricia perpetuates harmful stereotypes against black people. Leaning heavily on Hazel's silent support, Nella asserts that many others feel the same, yet acknowledges Shartricia's immense potential. Colin listens intently, acknowledging that not every book can resonate with everyone, and then excuses himself to join Richard.
Vera invites Nella to her office the following day, while Richard pulls Hazel aside, entrusting her with the task of writing the editorial for Colin's latest work. He ushers her along, eager to delve deeper into the matter. As Nella gathers her belongings to leave, she discovers a cryptic note tucked into her coat pocket, its urgent message screaming "LEAVE WAGNER NOW."
The distant rumble of an unsettling noise jolts her, and the lights begin to dance erratically, casting eerie shadows across the office. Nella rushes towards the elevator, her heart pounding in her chest. As the doors slide open, the flickering lights cast Kendra's ghostly reflection on the elevator walls, staring back at her for a fleeting moment before vanishing into the darkness, leaving Nella with a chill that runs down her spine.
