Episode 7 of The Other Black Girl commences with Hazel embarking on her daily routine. She diligently prepares for work and ensures Shani, still confined within the confines of her home, receives her morning meal. Shortly after, Nella gracefully enters the office. Sophie expresses her elation as Nella takes the helm of the morning's marketing meeting, then casually mentions the whispers circulating in the office about Hazel's recent ordeal. Spotting Hazel heading towards the conference room, Sophie approaches with a friendly greeting, but Hazel remains aloof.
The meeting is a resounding success, earning Nella applause from her colleagues. She proposes a partnership with the local charity organization, Young, Black, and Lit, to donate copies of their books and a percentage of the profits. Richard nods his approval. Hazel's uneasiness mounts with every mention of the charity, especially when Nella cheerfully reveals it as her own initiative.
In a moment of solitude, Hazel offers her gratitude to Nella and invites her to a "Hair Party" on the coming Saturday, a chance for a fresh start. Malaika insists on accompanying her, instructing Owen to remain vigilant and promising to text him if anything untoward occurs.
As Malaika and Nella arrive at the party, Hazel introduces Camille, Ebonee, and Kiara. The lights flicker, and the girls whisper, admitting they are well-acquainted with Nella's name and envious of her bond with Hazel. Unexpectedly, another guest arrives, revealing herself as Malaika's former girlfriend, Ruby. Malaika fears the party is a trap, a ploy for Ruby to exact revenge, but is stunned to find Ruby surprisingly amiable. Malaika is bewildered and convinces Nella to investigate further.
As Nella hears a creak of a door, Hazel intercepts her before she can open it. Malaika and Ruby engage in a private conversation, leaving Malaika flabbergasted as she ponders over the transformation in her ex-girlfriend. Ruby attributes it all to Hazel and the power of therapy. The girls shower Nella with warmth, but she remains suspicious, yet they assure her she must learn to savor her victories. They're elated to welcome another sister to their circle.
Hazel gently informs Nella that she's not officially part of the group until she allows Hazel to style her hair. Nella hesitates, revealing that only her mother and Malaika have ever touched her hair. Hazel reassures her that it's okay if she doesn't trust her, but Nella reconsiders and ultimately agrees. The girls exchange a suspicious glance, unaware of the intrigue that lies ahead.
Ruby candidly informed Malaika that there was no underlying agenda with Hazel; she was simply genuine and sincere. She recounted how Hazel had escorted her to a party, sharing her attire and cosmetics, allowing Ruby to embody the person she aspired to be. As Hazel tenderly massaged Nella's hair, a fleeting memory of her mother doing the same flitted through her mind.
Meanwhile, Malaika, secluded in the bathroom, dialed Owen's number, sensing something sinister at the party and feeling the need for his presence. She abruptly intervened before Hazel could apply an unfamiliar product to Nella's hair, announcing they must retreat to the bathroom. The girls appeared defensive, almost protective of the ongoing hairstyling session.
Once inside, Malaika insisted that the group exuded an odd aura, resembling a cult-like demeanor. Nella retorted, suggesting Malaika might not comprehend since she worked for a black boss and lived her authentic self daily. Malaika reminded Nella that she knew her better than anyone, and no job or attire could alter that. She urged Nella to snoop around, promising to drop the matter if she uncovered nothing suspicious.
Malaika descended the stairs, striving to distract the girls with her arched eyebrows. Hazel appeared uneasy, instructing Camille and Ruby to fetch chips from the hallway. Nella, taking the opportunity, searched the vicinity and stumbled upon a concealed envelope containing before-and-after photos of the women downstairs. Shockingly, there was a picture of Nella with her original appearance, but the "after" version was missing.
Nella hastened downstairs, panic evident in her voice, informing Malaika they must leave immediately. She claimed to have received an urgent call, necessitating their swift departure. However, the ladies intervened, expressing their commitment to their community and offering assistance. Hazel led them upstairs, revealing a surprise—a bag filled with swag.
Owen hastened to the scene upon receiving Malaika's message and let himself in just as Malaika and Nella made their escape. Hazel persisted in inquiring about the urgency, to which Nella concocted a bizarre tale about their dog having cancer and being at the veterinarian's. They hastened out, and on the subway, Nella displayed the photos, some labeled as "voluntary" and others as "involuntary." Owen pondered over the significance of these labels, while Nella began to doubt her initial suspicion towards Hazel.
Back at the party, Hazel appeared agitated, sensing that something had not unfolded as intended. The girls assured her they had done their utmost, but Hazel instructed them to let it go, reminding them they still had something to celebrate. Shortly after, another girl joined the group, Shani, entering the scene.
