Sweden sweets

Sweden sweets

By Thảo Đinh

“I don’t see what’s all the hype about,” Liz said, looking down to the shiny floor of the shopping mall, her newly layered dark brown hair fell over her eyes, one strand after the other sliding smoothly. 

“It’s all fast fashion, and where do you get the money to shop so much?” She continued talking without breaking eye contact with the floor. The air was densified with high-end perfumes and thin clothes bearing heavy price tags.

“Do you maybe want to head out and explore the city? There are some Swedish candy stores.” Liz suggested and I agreed. We pierced through an industrial jungle of fabrics and hangers, heading out into the open air of the city square. Light rain and strong wind welcomed us. Liz led the way briefly, maybe because of the narrow walkway, then paused to match my speed. Something told her I might be feeling what she felt, two isolated souls in the group that held the same values.

Liz still had both her hands in her pockets, but she quickly became more talkative and livelier during our conversation. Her large, brown eyes met mine, like a puddle of thick honey, gentle and calm. She didn’t smile that much, but when she did, deep, curly wrinkles would form at the corners of her eyes, and her vivid aegyo sal would instantly charm you. 

“I had this haircut yesterday at a random place. Now my hair is messed up.” Her voice remained fast and low while her hands stayed put in the pockets of the cozy grey jacket. 

“I regretted it so much. Does it look that bad?” She turned to me for confirmation, to which I honestly replied: “The front looked great. It shapes your frame well.” Liz’s gaze fixed on me, listening, as if waiting for a “but.” 

“But” I continued, “the part behind is a bit messy. Not too professional.” Liz nodded and winced at the edge of her lips. 

“Thanks for being honest.” She thanked me a lot, for the little things, which I appreciated. We reached the candy store as planned and started looking around. The colorful sweets made Liz’s neutral clothes stand out. Her lips chipped a bit, probably from dehydration and the Nordic winter winds. Her freckles climbed their way up to her forehead, but her almond eyes and thick eyebrows were most noticeable. 

Those eyes turned to me, “Thanks for coming to this candy shop with me.”