Feeling the vibrations of the car's engine through the seat, I turned to my father with a question.
"Why are we going to a hot spring?"
"Healing, I'd imagine. It's been said for centuries that hot springs have the power to soothe both body and soul," my father replied, as if he'd anticipated my question all along.
Our destination, arranged by Irena, was a hidden hot spring in Gifu. When I first heard we were going to a hot spring, I assumed we'd be heading to a popular place like Atami. But it turned out there were less conventional options to consider.
Still, a hot spring seemed an unusual choice for mental healing. Hot springs might be relaxing, sure, but they weren't exactly the go-to remedy for someone suffering from deep emotional distress.
Sensing my unease as he navigated the winding mountain road, my father glanced over at me.
