Chapter 14

I wrote it down so I wouldn’t forget. Jo-oh-sa-ma

* * * *

A few days later I received the mail from her.

I hurried into my apartment with a very thick nine-by-twelve envelope and sat on my sofa to open it. I spread the papers out. First, there was a letter from Yuriko, and then a list of instructions and a seven page contract.

Dear Micheleen,

I am very pleased that you called and expressed your concerns. I hope the enclosed will assuage most of them. We can speak again once you have digested all of this. Please read it carefully. Your understanding of these papers will show me how committed you will be. Take care of what I hope will become my dorei.”

愛人百合子京都

(She signed it in Japanese.)

I immediately had to look up the word dorei. It translated to slave.

The next page was a list of things I should do:

1. Have a complete physical examination; especially for STDs.

2. Devoid yourself of every possession, including all clothing except what you will wear in transit.