The Bridesmaid

Having played the roles of bride’s best friend, groom’s sister,
last minute fill-in, and token female cousin,
you’re prepared for dyed-to-match high heels, the blisters,
cold beef, warm beer, the chicken dance, and the dozen
well-meaning guests who pat your hand and ask,
Have you found someone special yet, sweetheart?
You’ve learned to include in the day’s costume a mask,
a practiced smile and sigh to check your smart-
ass answer: what you’ve found are bantamweight
boy toys, e-freaks, sex pervs, and two prospects
who might have worked, had they not been mean or married.
What’s special is the bubble bath that waits
at home, where a worn-out welcome mat bedecks
the threshold over which you won’t be carried.

Carrie Jerrell