Chapter Three: A Wonderful Day

I arrived at the mall within a short amount of time then it would have taken me if I walked here. I parked near the bookstore since it was near the main road. "I should find a book to help pick out a name for the girl." I couldn't think of one that would suit her, so I think purchasing a book would help out better.

When I stepped inside the cool, air-conditioned store, I saw a bookstand with a book I was seeking for. The title read, '10,000 Baby Names and Meanings'. I picked it up and saw that the price was at two thousand yen. "Not a bad price." Next was to find a sketchbook, with all the colored pencils, and all I think she would need to draw. After a few minutes, I found what I was looking for, made the purchases, and headed inside the mall to buy an outfit.

There was a directory in the middle, with a list of all the stores. The clothing stores were listed in blue. The one store that caught my eye the most was a place called Honeys. It was in the same vicinity that I was at. I've heard plenty of good stories about this place. It had clothes that were very earthbound related. Plus, I had a feeling that she would love whatever I picked out for her. As I headed to the store, I got an incoming text. I looked at my phone to see that it was Itsuki.

I'm headed to the cafeteria for lunch. Nurse Hetomi and another female nurse came in so they could clean the girl up before she leaves today. Good to know.

I texted him back quickly, thanks for the heads up. I bet she'll feel better after she's all cleaned up. I'm about to find her an outfit. I'll text you when I'm on my way back.

Take your time, Mika.

I will.

After a few more texts with Itsuki, I walked inside the store, and was amazed at how lovely it was inside. Not only were the clothes earthy related, but the store was also too. If we didn't have family and friends with daughters that were in the same age range with the teen we found, I would be in here almost all-day shopping.

As I walked around to look at each piece they were selling, a nice young female worker came up, and greeted me. "Good afternoon, is there anything I can help you look for?"

"I'm looking for an outfit… for my daughter to wear." Saying the word daughter brought a smile to my face. "I'm thinking of a dress or a complete shirt and shorts for her. It's so hard to choose."

"Haha, I know the feeling. Hmm, would a romper dress do good? I have one that's on sale if you're interested in looking at it?" What a thoughtful offer!

"Please, I'd appreciate it very much." She led me towards the front and picked up a lovely indigo piece. I fell in love with it immediately. The color would suit the girl very well. It had thin white chevron patterns wrapped around the fabric. The romper even had a long flowy train that fell to the floor.

"Is this piece to your liking?" She wondered, still holding the outfit up.

"Yes, it is!" I can't wait to show her the outfit. Now I need to find a white pair of plimsoll sneakers, sandals, no show socks, pajamas, a swimsuit, and I can't forget the most important things, bra and underwear. I'll have to go to a different store for some of those items.

After she handed me the romper, "will there be anything else I can help you out with?"

"A swimsuit?" They have to have some since it's summer.

"Yes, we have plenty of swimwear. Any type of swimsuit?"

I had to think of what girls are wearing nowadays. "Maybe a bikini?"

"We have a plentiful collection, if you would like to see?" She gestured a hand towards the back.

"Thank you."

"It's no problem. I'm happy to be of help." The lovely retail worker helped me pick out a lovely navy-blue bikini and matched it with a white suit cover. After I purchased the items, I headed for a different store and bought a few other items the girl would need.

When I arrived back at the car and got it going, I noticed I spent a bit more time than I wanted too. But I know Itsuki wouldn't mind. I called him anyway as I drove back.

"Hey Mika. How's the shopping?"

"It went well. I'm on my way back now. How is she doing?"

"I'm sitting out in the same waiting room. Her curtain is still closed."

"That's okay. I'll be there shortly."

"See you soon."

After I hung up with him, another call came through, and I saw that it was Chidori. I had a feeling what the call could be about. They had found the girl's parents. I held back my tears and answered the phone. "Hi Chidori, have you heard anything?"

"Hello Mika, and no unfortunately. We had a few calls, but none we were looking for," she explained. I had a feeling people called and lied to say that the girl was their missing daughter. But when they were asked the question of the outfit she was wearing, they lied about that too. People today sicken me when it comes to many different things. "I actually called to see how she was doing today. Do you know when she'll be able to leave the hospital?"

"She's leaving the hospital today. I am on my way back now. I had to go and buy her an outfit."

"That's wonderful to hear, Mika. I know things will go well for you and Itsuki. I'm so thrilled that you agreed to take her in your care."

I couldn't stop grinning, "same here, Chidori. Maybe in the near future, Itsuki and I will take in another child." I would love that so much. Our home in the city has multiple bedrooms for anyone to live in. To give her a sibling would be great.

"I'll keep you updated, Mika. Enjoy your time and call me when you have a name picked out for the girl." I'll be looking at names here soon.

"I will." I made it back to the hospital after I got off the phone. Years ago, I had names picked out for a child if I was able to give birth, but to me they didn't suit her at all. I'm glad I bought the book. Maybe I should let her pick out the name for herself! I bet she would like that a lot.

I arrived back in the same waiting area where she rested and the curtain to her room opened. Nurse Hetomi and another female nurse came out, with two little plastic tubs filled with soapy water. "Hello, Doctor Ito. We just got done cleaning her up and you may go in if you like."

"Thank you." I walked in to see she was no longer hooked up to her I.V. She looked so pretty with her hair pulled back into a long braid. Before I closed the curtain again, I then turned to Itsuki and told him, "Wait here. I'm going to help get her dressed."

"Take your time Mika."

When the curtain finally opened, I was so exhilarated to see the pretty lady again, and it looked like she felt the same way I did. "I'm back! Sorry that it took me a bit. But I wanted to make sure I got something you would like to wear." Did she buy me something? "Here you go dear!"

I gratefully took the odd bag from her hand, opened it up. and inside was the prettiest fabric I've ever seen. I pulled it out and fell in love with color. She closed the curtain and I felt like asking, "is this for me to wear?"

She spun around fast when she heard me speak. "So, you can speak! That is great relief and yes it is." She sat on the bed with me and I felt like she had more to say. "Were you nervous to speak to us yesterday?"

"I think so." I had a question of my own, "have we ever met before?"

She shook her head, "no. I'm not from here. I am actually from Tokyo. My husband and I have a vacation home nearby."

"Oh!" What's Tokyo?

After she helped me get dressed, "is there anything you would like me to make for dinner? I bought so much food the other day that I can't decide what to make."

"Umm… I'm not sure. I'll eat whatever you'll make. I'm not picky." I wonder if she'll allow me to help cook? "Could I help you cook?"

I noticed it made her smile when I asked her. "Of course you can. We'll be making a lot of food. A few of my friends are coming over later tonight to vacation with us. My friends each have a daughter just about your age."

"Oh!" I wonder if they would like me? "What are their names?" How would I introduce myself when I can't even remember my own?

"Their names are Oakley and Kiki. But speaking of names, we need to figure out a temporary name for you, until you can remember yours!"

"I wouldn't know what name I would give myself." It's sad that I still can't remember who I am.

"You're in luck! Inside this bag here is a book with names listed. I've also got you a drawing pad, and all sorts of things to draw with.

She's too kind, "thank you. But you didn't have to do that."

"It's okay dear. I want to make sure you have something that you would enjoy having. When you showed me that drawing earlier, I knew you would love to have that drawing pad."

"How very kind to think of me, thank you."

She joined me on the bed again, "you're welcome," patting my arm. "Take your time picking out a name, we still have a tiny bit before you can be discharged." She got up from the bed and opened the curtain.

I couldn't wait to find a name that would suit me for now. I took out what I believe was the book she spoke of and was amazed how many pages of names there were. Do I really want to go through all these names? I put my thumb on the edge of the book and moved my thumb along the pages. It gave me an idea after I saw it move a few pages. I closed my eyes and allowed my thumb to do its magic and thumbed the pages until I was ready to stop. When I opened up my eyes, I noticed the names began with the letter H. So H it is! I allowed myself to eye each name until one of them caught my eye. Hana I like it!

I was smiling so much when I heard, "did you find one you like?"

"Yes! Hana is one I like!"

"Such a perfect name and I think it suits you!" I'm glad she agrees.

"I agree too!" I couldn't wait to introduce myself to her friends later. Even the daughters that are my age.

Time came and went when Doctor Katio came in with Hana's discharge papers and his nurse with a wheelchair for her. I couldn't wait till we got home so I can give her a tour, including what will be her bedroom for now. "I have signed the papers for her release. If one of you would like to retrieve your car, and meet us at the bay doors, we'll wheel her out and meet you."

Itsuki had already told me earlier that he would bring the car around. He left quickly. "Thank you, Doctor Kaito. For everything."

"Anytime, Doctor Ito. It's my duty as the head doctor to help those in need. If there comes any issue where she's dizzy, incoherent or any other signs that you notice, please don't be afraid to call and have her brought here immediately."

I'll definitely be looking out for everything. I know I'll be checking on Hana throughout the night, till I know that she's okay. Though I have a feeling she will be fine. "I'll make sure to call you if anything were to occur."

"Good! I've also written a prescription for amoxicillin to prevent any bacterial infections for her cuts. Have her take it once a day and she should take it for about seven days." He ripped the slip of paper from his pad and handed it to me. "Make sure they stay clean with non-perfume products."

"I'll be sure to, Doctor Katio." I only ever use fresh clean organic products. I turned to Hana and asked her, "are you ready to leave?"

"Yes!" We helped her into the wheelchair and headed towards the bay doors.

"Just take it easy and limit your activities for the next week. Swimming is fine, but keep it under an hour, and remember to use non fragrant soaps."

"I promise." I hope she can swim!

We made it outside, where Itsuki was waiting for us. I opened up the back passenger side door and helped her inside. "Buckle up dear." I passed her the buckle and when she took it, it seemed she didn't know what to do with it. "Do you need help?"

"Yes, sorry it seems all new to me."

"It's alright. You are still recovering, dear." I helped buckle her up, shut her door, and turned back to the young doctor. With a proper bow, "thank you again."

"You're welcome, Doctor Ito." He bowed to me too. "You and your family take care and enjoy your summer here."

I smiled, got into the car and we left together as a family. I was thrilled. I was going to be a mother for the first time! Itsuki is going to be a father too! He's very quiet, but I know deep down he's excited. The news just hasn't hit him quite yet.

Some time on the road I looked back in the rearview mirror to see Hana looking out the window. She was smiling. I wonder what she's thinking about? I wonder if she was hungry too! Or thirsty? I was craving hot tea and it made me wonder, "when we get home, would anyone like a cup of hot tea?"

I watched as Hana turned her head towards the front and smiled more. "Yes please!"

I smiled and turned to Itsuki. "Dear, tea?"

"Sure. With this storm coming in, I think a hot cup of tea would be perfect." Storm? I looked out ahead to see dark clouds forming. At least we were close to our home. It was just another two streets down.

I too looked ahead to see the dark ominous clouds. For some reason they reminded me of my dream. Stormy and gloomy. I shuddered at that memory. I hope we get to their home soon. It also makes me wonder where my actual home is and my actual parents. Are they worried about me? Are they searching for me? What about my siblings? Or am I an only child? I wish I could remember everything, but nothing is coming to me. I held everything in and did not cry. I know I'll remember one day, just not right now.

To keep myself at ease, I went back looking out to the passing trees, and homes. Such a lovely area, though nothing looked familiar still. Maybe in a few days, after I had plenty of time to rest, we all could go out, and walk around to see if anything triggers my memory. I'll ask… Mika's? I believe it is her name, and see if that's okay with her. I have a feeling that she would and her husband too.

We weren't on the road for long and came to a stop in front of a beautiful home. "We're home!" Mika announced.

"Your home is so beautiful!" It really was. The outside was made out of large logs. Around the windows were small wood planks in an off shade of deep green. Their home even had a huge wrap around porch.

"I agree, Hana. But wait till you see the inside!" She took my hand and led me up the stone stairs. Her husband followed behind us. When we reached the doors, "ready?"

I was, "yes!"

She unlocked the door and all three of us walked inside. It was nice and cool for this hot day. "Now! Why don't I give you a tour. Itsuki, can you get the tea kettle going now, please?"

"It will be my pleasure, Mika." Tea sounded so good right now, even though it's hot out, but with the incoming storm it would be perfect.

Mika led me up the stairs, to the second floor, and down a medium sized hallway. She pointed out each room and who was sleeping where. We came to a stop when we reached the last door on the right. "This room will be your room, Hana." When she opened the door I was in awe. The room was so beautiful. The walls were off white, almost gray. "You'll be able to put your clothes in the closet here, including the dressers. Your bed has a brand new mattress, it's quite comfortable, and you'll sleep well. Oh!" She led me to the window. "You have an amazing view of the backyard."

I looked out and it was amazing, even though it was now raining. So many bright green trees that went out for miles and miles. There was even a lake not too far off. "It's so beautiful." I think I should ask her now, "I was wondering, after a few days of rest, do you think we could walk around to see if anything triggers my memory?"

Mika turned to me, with a calm expression on her face. "Yes! Of course. Do you mind waiting at least a few days? We need to make sure you have fully recovered."

"I can wait a few days."

"Good. I'm thinking we'll bring you by the lake where we found you the other day. To see if that triggers anything. If not, we'll go everywhere around here, including the old castle."

"Castle?"

"Yes! There's one not too far off from here. It's about a mile or two up the road. You can't see it from here because of the trees. But it's just a temple now. We could pay our respects and pray for you."

"I would really appreciate that very much." I felt my eyes water.

Mika's arms were around me for comfort. "It's okay, Hana. Something out here should help trigger your memory." I hope she's right. She grabbed a white material from a box and wiped my tears away. "Let's go get some tea. I can hear the kettle going."

"Yes!"

We made it back down to the first floor and she gave me a tour of the rest of the house. My favorite room in the whole house, beside my room was the kitchen. It was large and had so much space that you could fit so many people in here. I couldn't wait to help cook later.

We all sat around the long rectangular table and enjoyed our tea together. The tea was lemon. So good. It made me wonder if my family, that I can't remember at this time, did this? I have a feeling they do.

Over our hot tea, Mika thought of making simple white rice, thin slices of beef, and plenty of vegetables. Sounded so good. Do I like beef? I'll try it anyway just in case. Later after we eat, we are going to have melon. I have a strong feeling I love melons a lot.

As we still sat around the table, I began to feel tired when I covered my mouth to yawn. "Hana, would you like to rest a bit?"

I yawned again and rubbed my tired eyes. "Yes! Would it be alright if I went to my room and rested a bit?"

"Of course, dear. I'll come wake you when dinner is about done."

"Thank you." I left for my room upstairs. I laid down on my bed and I had to agree it was quite comfortable. I laid my head down on the pillow and soon I was out.

During my rest I began having an odd dream:

A young child was running in a field of flowers, with a little green toad carrying a funny looking stick with two heads of one male and one female. There was even a two headed dragon with green scales with a black mane following behind her. The dragon was almost bird-like and mixed with different other types of animals in one.

"Rin don't run too far," a mysterious voice called out. The young girl named Rin stopped and turned towards the shadow of the trees. She saw a mysterious man with golden eyes sitting under a Sakura tree.

Rin happily ran towards the mysterious stranger calling out to him. "Lord Sesshomaru, you've returned," she said, cheerfully. As the girl named Rin was about to give him a big hug, a bright white light flashed before her eyes.

Waking up from the flash of white I laid in my bed wondering why I had this dream. "The dream felt so real."

I laid there in my bed trying to figure the dream out when a knock came at the door. "Come in."

It was Mika. "Hana, dinner is about done, and my friends have finally arrived. Do you want to rest more, or are you hungry?"

I actually was hungry and I was excited to meet her friends and their daughters. "I'm hungry." I got out of bed and walked towards the door, "but I need to use the restroom first."

"Of course. It's just over here."

For the past several days, I had returned to the exact area where Rin had disappeared. Her scent no longer lingered within the well or the area due to the rain washing it away. I checked the neighboring villages miles down the road for any traces of her scent. But I was unsuccessful. I asked the villagers if they saw a young woman with Rin's description. My trips were unsuccessful, with no one seeing her. I feared the worst of an unknown demon or human taking her. Then I remembered that I didn't detect any scent of demons or humans around the lake.

As I stood there a scent I knew my whole life appeared behind me. "Sesshomaru, my son. Why are you out here of all places?" I hadn't seen my mother since that day she sent Rin to the underworld to test me.

"Mother, why are you out here of all places?"

"I wanted to come see you since I haven't heard from you for some time. Why are you looking down this well?" Then it dawned on me. I had a feeling my mother planned this to happen. I turned with such a harsh look to her. "What troubles you my son?"

"Did you do this?" I pointed towards the well. "Did you order some demon to send Rin away?" My blood boiled and I was ready to kill my own mother. "Did you send her to the netherworld again?" My hand was ready to whip out my sword bakusaiga since it had the power to open a portal.

"What are you talking about my son? I did nothing of that sort." I guess she couldn't believe I would blame her for such a crime. "Is that human girl who's followed you gone missing?"

I only nodded, "a white light took her and I don't know what caused it. I didn't sense any danger that day or anyone nearby."

My mother stared at me confused, "did you check the sky? There are demons who's scent linger high above and don't reach the ground with wind."

"No!" It never came to his mind to check the sky. "Rin's scent only lingered here within this area and down in this well. If you notice the flowers." Pointing down the well. "She picked those to make paint."

"Hmm, she'll appear when she's ready. She could have just wandered off after something spooked her. But you and I need to have a serious talk about your future." I knew Rin did not wander off. She was excited for her first day of work in the neighboring village. Her goal was to arrive early before the storm.

"What do you mean about my future?"

"Son, you're a lord with a new empire and you need a mate. I will not allow you to live a life without producing an heir. A male heir within that order. I have several girls eager to meet you..."

"...I don't need a mate at this time. I have too much on my mind."

"I hate to say this, but if that girl was taken by someone or something, she's not coming back. Forget about her and think about your future, Sesshomaru." How can I forget about someone who I broke down after she died a second time. "Sesshomaru?"

Not wanting to deal with my mother's words, I trudged back towards my home still holding Rin's smile to my heart.