Mameha predicted that Pumpkin would struggle as an apprentice, yet she is now one of the most well-known apprentices in Gion. In fact, Pumpkin earned the most money in the okiya the previous month, but Mameha explains to Sayuri that Hatsumomo and Pumpkin will pay for this in the long run. The reason is that, in order to make Pumpkin successful, Hatsumomo had her leave parties early. Patrons paid the same for her to spend five minutes there as they would have paid for a full hour, but they did not expect her to leave after only five minutes. So, while Pumpkin has earned a lot of money, this approach is likely to damage her reputation, as well as that of Hatsumomo. As for Hatsumomo herself, her goal is for Mother to adopt Pumpkin, as this will secure her own future.

Later, Mameha informs Sayuri that they will be attending an event where Hatsumomo will not be able to find them. The event in question is a sumo exhibition, and, when Sayuri looks into the audience, she notices a man whom she initially takes to be Mr. Tanaka.