Yes!” I called Daddy and he okayed our little trio and set the ground rules. His eyes seemed to hone in on my black heart. I promise I will start taking applications for a wife. We had coordinated our outfits and everything was set! “Ruby, I can honestly say it’s an honor to be one of your close friends. I promise I will start taking applications for a wife. I am so glad my bachelorette party was a success and I can’t wait for you both to be at my wedding soon!” I giggled and our glasses clinked. I tried to focus on the words but they made no sense. “Ruby, are you okay?” Naomi and Tasha walked after me, obviously concerned. “Daddy….have you thought about getting married again?”
“Ruby…”
“Daddy, listen. I mean ….. “Girls …. Mother set me up in the study with some books and I took notes on all I was reading. I tried to focus on the words but they made no sense. He hosts clients and I am terrified that black heart will make its way around my neck.”
“Ask him not to use it.”
“Like I have a choice…”
“Of course you do, it’s a marriage, not a dictatorship.”
“Isn’t it?” That shut us all up.
