Chapter 19

“Tonight we are having a traditional Japanese meal in honor of your collaring, Michiko,” Yuriko told me. “This is the beginning of your Japanese education. Outside this house, we’ll act like normal Americans, but inside, I like to observe some Japanese traditions. You must know them for when we go to Japan. There are many rules you don’t want to break because it would offend your host and cast shame on this house.”

I nodded. I knew this would be different.

“It’s probably best if you wait before you do anything and observe how others are doing it. I will instruct you for a while but I expect you will learn fast.”

I nodded again. “Certainly, Joō-sama.”