Don't Shoot the Messenger

12 Sweeden ...and a win

* edited 

  Claire POV  

I landed at the new terminal at Bromma Stockholm  Airport  rather than the Arlanda Airport further north. I was able to get a week long pass for public transit before leaving the airport itself. The light rail that I had read being talked about was nowhere near actually being built so bus or taxi were my real options.

Checked into my hotel it was nearly lunchtime and I was ready to explore. Before leaving my room, I secured my valuables in a sort of flat fanny pack concealed under my oversize sweater. I put bottled water and heat warmers in my purse. I would be outdoors much of the time. ...unlike the trip itself when most of my time was in climate controlled spaces with only brief excursions through the cold dark air.  I am far enough north that the hours of daylight are limited. 

On my way out, I asked for recommendations for a quick lunch. Two seemed promising: a vegetarian restaurant and a fondu restaurant. I knew that I would like the fondu, but it would be more of a treat after I was cold from my excursions. Most vegan or vegetarian places tried to be unique so it would be more adventurous.    

The Hermitage was even close to my next stop. I paid the flat rate for the all you can eat buffet and looked over the hot and cold selections. I took my first plate to a table, sliding behind it onto the bench that ran the length of the wall. I chose a hot tea as well and settled in. The orange walls and light wood were cheerful and warm.

There was a kind of fried dumpling with bits of pepper, celery and onion. Also, a bean soup flavored with a meat substitute made in house. The a cool green herb soup was better than I expected. I couldn't name half of the things I tasted and "all you can eat" meant I could try at lest a bit of everything. I tried to save room for one of the deserts in the display case. Much of it was flavorful and spicy, but not too much. At 13 euros, it was a bit expensive...but not once you remember it was all you can eat. 

  My next goal was Kings Garden where I already knew skates could be rented for 4 euros. I was used to the conversion by now, the rate seemed cheap and I was looking forward to the outdoor rink. I was badly out of practice; I haven't been ice skating in years. I had never been expert and fell down several times, but after a while I began to feel more confident. Coming off the ice I more than half expected to see Alissandru waiting with a cup of late or hot chocolate. He was nowhere in sight. Well, he is planning to surprise me...   Time to go someplace warmer.

                                                                                        ..............................

 The Arcade was crowded, full of lights and noise like an oversize Dave and Busters. There was even indoor mini-golf and laser tag. I tried a few games. There was a Star Wars themed one, another that involved shooting giant spiders. Walking between wide rows of retro arcade games I yelped as I was shoved hard and my purse ripped from my shoulder.   

  More startled than hurt, I rolled pulling my feet close and pushing off with one hand about to get up. "Are you all right?" I looked up the length of him... from his attempt at casual wear to his stern expression that almost hid the warmth in his eyes. "Good to see you." I extended my hand and he lifted me smoothly. I heard a sharp scream but neither of us looked away. That must be his security retrieving my purse. "I'm sorry I wasn't here sooner; that shouldn't have happened." "No harm, I'm fine."   "Your purse will be returned in a moment." I shrug, unconcerned. "I hope he didn't break anything." I say, referring to the scream "I hope he did." Alissandru replies darkly.