Chapter 4
Sesshomaru had medical school classes with Suiskotsu, so he wasn't surprised to have a visit from Suiskotsu to help in the clinic and lab. The two had worked well together on many rotations in school, having the same interests, work ethic, and competitive spirit. When it came time to graduate though, Sesshomaru went to a residency in tropical medicine and public health and Suiskotsu went to a residency in internal medicine and an infectious disease fellowship. Suiskotsu had wanted to live in the big city, to become affluent, and accumulate material goods, while Sesshomaru had found a greater calling in the search for a cure to malaria. Still Suiskotsu would donate one month every year to Sesshomaru's cause and would join him in Africa.
Sesshomaru accepted his help with open arms, especially since Suiskotsu was a good and compassionate physician and he really knew his way around the lab.
On this particular visit, the men had just finish rounds at the local malaria hospital. It had been a good day. They had started treatment early enough on the newest small child patient. They were encouraged and hopeful that she wouldn't die. Sesshomaru and Suiskotsu had been encouraging mothers to get their children seen as soon as possible instead of keeping them at home and it was paying dividends. The death rate was decreasing. It was time to celebrate.
They sat down to a special dinner and started talking.
"I'm thinking seriously about settling down and getting married, Sesshomaru," said Suiskotsu.
"Really?" Sesshomaru was stunned.
"Yeah, I dated a young woman who really ignited my heart," replied Suiskotsu. "She smelled like cherries and fresh rain. Her skin was perfect. Her hair was ebony with red highlights. Her eyes were chocolate brown. She really would have been the perfect wife."
"Would have been?"
"Yeah. I just wasn't ready yet when I met her. I wasn't ready to commit at the time. I realize it now. She probably though I was suffering from a split personality. I still wanted my bachelorhood, but I wanted her in my life." Suiskotsu answered.
"Are you going to go back to her and tell her you have your head on straight now?" Sesshomaru asked.
"Do you think I could?" Suiskotsu looked hopeful.
"Don't know. Do I know this perfect woman? inquired Sesshomaru.
"Maybe. She's ten years younger than we are. She owns a coffee shop. She just graduated from high school a couple of years ago but she's hard working and her shop is busy most of the time. I've heard that Kristen plays her guitar there and that usually brings in the crowds." Suiskotsu replied thoughtfully.
Sesshomaru didn't think he liked where this was going, but he asked anyway. "Did you date Rin?"
"Why yes! Do you know her? Isn't she lovely!" sighed Suiskotsu like a lovesick puppy.
Sesshomaru's stomach lurched.
"Sesshomaru? Are you ok?" Suiskotsu looked at him worried.
"…"
"Sesshomaru?"
Another pause followed before Sesshomaru could gather his wits. "She's an old friend, Suiskotsu. And you are right. She is lovely and perfect." Sesshomaru's countenance fell. He was beside himself. He wanted the best for his friend but Rin was so special to him.
The men sat in silence for several moments. Then Suiskotsu looked at his friend.
"Sesshomaru, something tells me Rin is more to you than an old friend."
Another pause followed before Sesshomaru found his tongue.
"You're right, Suiskotsu. She's the reason I'm a physician. I was fifteen years old and so sure I didn't want anything to do with my Dad's career as the town doctor. All I knew was that Dad went to the hospital every morning and came home late and we never saw him enough. That's why my mother left him."
"I think Rin and Kagome were about five years old when they were out in the snow too long. Kagome yelled for help because Rin couldn't hold anything or feel anything. InuYasha went to her immediately, but he didn't know what to do, so he came running to get me. I could tell he was worried so I went to them. As soon as I saw Rin in tears I grabbed her to my chest. She was shaking uncontrollably. I slipped her next to my skin, just like the Eagle Scout manual said to do. Next thing I know her tears increased and she became inconsolable. I ran quicker to Father. As soon as I gave her to Father he made me leave the treatment room."
"The whole experience inspired me to follow Father's footsteps after all. He was my hero that day. I thought I was doing the right thing but Rin was so inconsolable. It tore me up. I adored that sweet little girl and her smiles. And when I tried to help she cried worse. Then after that she was so bashful around me. It puzzled me so much."
The men sat in silence again. Then Suiskotsu said, "Sesshomaru, I had my chance with her. I suggest you make your move or I'll try again. Don't let this one get away."
