Free My Mans Best Friend (9781622860241) by Tresser Henderson

the many women smiling as they tried on their dresses, I followed Emory to our section where we had our own salesperson to help us. Three other bridesmaids were there already trying on their dresses, happy with the selection they had chosen.
    I was late that day too when we came here to pick out our gowns. Again, everybody was there trying on dresses and it looked like all the best ones had been chosen. I was mad because each of them had on gowns that were my style. If I would’ve gotten there earlier, I would have beaten them to the punch in choosing the dress I wanted. Instead I had to search for one that was not old-fashioned. I didn’t want any puffs, lace, and bows on my bootie. I wanted sleek and elegant. I searched the rows of gowns and found one that was to die for. I took it down, happy it was in my size, nine. No bows and no frilly chiffon. Putting the gown up against me looking in the mirror, I knew this was the one. Checking my color choices, it did come in lilac.
    Having this be my final time to try on this dress before the wedding next Saturday, I went into the rather large dressing stall. I proceeded to undress and slipped on my garment. Emory kept peeping in at me like I didn’t know how to dress myself. I told her to stay out. Zipping the side, it fit like a glove. I turned to see the bootie I was blessed with sit high on my back and hips with enough curves to see them from the back and the front. I came out of the dressing room, and Emory’s mouth fell open.
    â€œThat dress looks fabulous on you,” she said beaming. “I wish you didn’t have all that ghetto bootie though,” she said looking at it like it made her sick.
    â€œI don’t know why you trippin’ because you got the same ghetto butt,” I struck back.
    Everybody around us laughed.
    â€œI do, but not like the one you got on your back. You’ve been getting way too much protein.”
    â€œAnd it does the body good,” I said, slowly descending my hands down my body.
    â€œYou are so nasty,” Emory threw out.
    â€œYou said it, I didn’t.”
    â€œTurn around and let me get a full view,” she said twirling me around.
    I took off walking like I was modeling designer clothing at fashion week. When I turned, I snapped my fingers and said, “Diva is here.” Laughter filled the air, and it felt good to not think about my problems for a little while.
    â€œI’m so glad you picked this one,” Emory said to me.
    A pair of rhinestone-studded strapped shoes made the garment complete. They were cute, yet sexy, with three-inch heels. I had to walk around in them to make sure they were comfortable. I didn’t want to be standing at the front of the church mad because my feet hurt. They were comfortable.
    We finished after an hour of dresses, shoes, flower girl, and Emory also picked up her veil and tiara with her gown. Now, we were finally on our way. Each of the bridesmaids kissed Emory on the cheek, telling her they would see her at the bachelorette party which they were having in a couple of days. I tried to leave like everybody else, but Emory called out to me.
    â€œWait a minute, Kea. I want to talk to you.”
    What is it now? I thought.
    â€œYou know I love you and ...”
    Oh boy, here we go. This can’t be good.
    â€œ... and I don’t mean to get all up in your Kool-Aid, but I got to ask you something.”
    â€œAsk away,” I said smiling sheepishly.
    â€œWhere did you get those scars on your back from? I noticed them when I walked in on you dressing.”
    â€œWhat are you talking about?”
    â€œYou know exactly what I’m talking about, Kea. Is Jaquon putting his hands on you, because if he is, we need to call—”
    â€œJaquon isn’t crazy, Emory! I may put up with him cheating on me, but I be damn if I let a man put his hands on me,” I exclaimed, getting angry at the thought.
    â€œThen how did you get