A Geisha's Revenge

Ayako stood on the platform of the busy train station, wearing her best red and black kimono. Mr Surata was about to arrive from Tokyo. A wealthy businessman, he’d promised, once again, to hire her for the weekend.

As the train approached she saw him. She waved and shouted: ‘Surata san - over here!’ But as Mr Surata stepped down from the carriage he bowed to another geisha - a younger, prettier girl. They left the station together, arm in arm.

Ayako was distraught. She sat on the deserted platform. Without a client, how would she pay her bills ?

Her anger grew. How dare he insult me! she said. A promise is a promise! Ayako vowed to take her revenge.

At midnight, wearing a mask, she walked to the beach and entered Mr Surata’s sea front condo. Surata and the girl were lying together on tatami mats. Ayako leaned over, close to his face, and hissed.

Surata woke, screamed, jumped trembling out of bed and, after gathering his pants to hide his modesty, fled into the night.

The younger geisha covered herself.

‘Don’t look so worried’ said Ayako. ‘You’re young. You’ve yet to learn how badly men treat geishas.’

She took off her mask and explained everything. The mask had been made in the image of Mrs Surata.

‘We geishas must be proud’ Ayako raged. ‘Those who break their promises must be punished!’

The younger geisha laughed. ‘You’re a very good teacher.’

‘Wait - there’s more to this lesson’ Ayako said. ‘Mr Surata has hired me many times. But no matter how many times you entertain a client you must always remain alert and observant.’

‘Why ?’ said the younger girl.

Ayako went to a corner of the condo and lifted a floorboard. ‘Because now I know where he hides his cash.’

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