“Yeah, I think she isn’t used to the time difference like I am.”
“That explains it. But here are the skates.” Linnea offers me a bag. “I also threw in some woolen socks there, too, so her toes won’t freeze.”
“Thanks, I appreciate it.” I smile and take the bag from her.
“I thought Vivian only liked snowboarding.” She remembers from our many conversations during the Christmas dinner. “So it was surprising that you’re going skating today.”
“She has no idea what’s in store for us.”
“Wait, what?”
“It’s a surprise.”
“Jasper…” Linnea shakes her head in disbelief. “Be ready to be disappointed.”
“She enjoys trying new things, it shouldn’t be an issue.”
“That’s cool then,” she responds with understanding.
After Linnea leaves, I hear Vivian stirring in the guest bedroom closest to the apartment’s front door. I walk back to the kitchen, hoping to distract her with the smell of coffee. But it doesn’t work.
“Morning,” she greets me groggily. “Was someone here?”
“Good morning, sleepyhead. Did you sleep well?”
“Yeah, I did. But back to my question; did I hear Linnea, or was that just my imagination?”
I sigh before replying. “Yes, she was here.”
“Why?”
“It’s a surprise. But first, coffee,” I say, handing her a cup.
“Thanks.” She takes a sip and smiles. “You make the best coffee.”
“I think it’s all thanks to this Moccamaster.” I pat the black coffee maker before making a quick breakfast of toast and leftover salmon. I can’t stop eating all the fish and seafood Finland has to offer.
Once we have eaten, Vivian puts down her cup and stretches her arms. “Okay, I’m ready. What’s the surprise?”
“Wait here for a moment,” I tell her, walking to the hallway to get the bag holding the skates before returning. “Open this.”
She opens the bag slowly, and her eyes widen with surprise. “You got me skates?”
“They’re Linnea’s spare skates, since you two are the same size.”
”How did you know my shoe size?”
”I checked your boots,” I admit.
“Of course you did.” Vivian laughs. “So, does this mean that we are going skating today?”
“Yes.”
“I haven’t been on skates in years,” Vivian admits, and I can see a slight hesitation in her expression. “I hope I don’t fall.”
“It’ll be fine—skating is like riding a bike. Once you know how to do it, it’ll come back sooner than later. And I’m here to be your personal helper.”
She laughs. “That does make it better—having a pro at my service.”
