I know Ranko provoked mixed feelings here, so look forward to more
controversy: I'm planning a sequel. I've been working on Genma's Daughter
for nine months (very appropriate) and first I'll be taking a break. After
that I have another story idea I may do first. But I do plan to do the
sequel, and I hope to finish it next year. So here, for your enjoyment, is
the "trailer". :-)
Deborah
==============
Ranko stared into the depths of the toilet as she cautiously inquired into
the state of her stomach. It seemed to be quieting down, and she sighed in
relief. She hadn't had any morning sickness to speak of during her first
pregnancy. It looked like she was hitting the jackpot this time.
She flushed the toilet, noting the elegant brass handle. The suite was very
nice, but she would much rather get sick in her own bathroom at home than a
hotel room in New York. The timing for this trip had not been ideal.
Her eyes wandered around the opulent bathroom, and stopped at the door; Shio
was standing there, watching her. She'd meant to close and lock the door,
but then she'd been in a bit of a hurry.
"Mommy?"
Ranko tried to put on a smile. "What is it, sweetie?"
"Do you feel bad?"
Ranko nodded, still a little pasty. "I did, but I feel much better now."
Shio regarded her seriously for a few moments. "If drinking toilet water
makes you feel better, why did you always yell at Shirokuro when she did
it?"
Ranko's jaw dropped.
"If Shirokuro drinked toilet water, would she feel better and still be
alive?"
Ranko opened her mouth to respond, then closed it.
*****
Coming in 2001 (I hope...): Genma's Granddaughter: Travels With My Mommy
by Deborah Goldsmith