Oslo (Week 3 - Monday)
Ryan knew the moment she arrived in Oslo; this was not the place she would reside. In stark contrast to the other places she had visited, Oslo lacked the vibrant and tropical island vibes she craved. Instead, the city reminded her of the depths of winter. The sky hung heavy with overcast clouds, allowing only a sliver of sunlight to break through the grayness. The atmosphere carried a chill in the air, whispering of long, cold days and nights. Despite the differences, Ryan couldn't help but appreciate the unique charm of Oslo, with its hints of wintry beauty.
Following her visit to San Sebastian, Ryan compiled a list of the top three towns she desired to reside in. San Lucia was the first choice, but unfortunately, no slots were available. Then came San Edistor and finally San Sebastian.
Upon thorough consideration, Ryan settled on San Edistor. It was the most sensible choice. She already had a network of friends there (Luke, Mary, Imani, and Ade), coupled with the town expanding its boundaries and creating new houses near the beach. That was her dream to live in a beach house, so when the transition center notified her of the expansion, Ryan started the paperwork immediately.
But there was only one potential drawback, the prospect of running into Sophie. The mere thought of seeing Sophie made her heart race. It wasn’t like she didn’t want to see her. She did! She longed for her. But Sophie made it clear she wanted space, and Ryan would honor her request.
As she walked across the street and entered the welcome center. Ryan was immediately struck by the lively atmosphere. The air was abuzz with the hum of conversations from a group of people that were gathered in a corner. A young man in his late twenties walked towards her.
“Hello, I’m Chase. Welcome to Oslo. How can I help you?”
“Hi Chase, I’m Ryan. I was wondering if you are conducting any tours today?”
“You’re in luck! We are about to leave on a tour in a few minutes. I will be leading a group to tour several historical sites.”
“That’s great,” Ryan said.
As the group wandered through the city’s enchanting alley, each step unveiling a new facet of Oslo’s rich history and modern charm. Ryan found herself amidst a lively group of women, all eager to soak in the local culture. The captivating tales shared by their knowledgeable guide added depth to every landmark they encountered, from the iconic Oslo Opera House to the bustling Aker Brygge waterfront. Their final stop was the new condos that were created for new residents.
After the tour, the group of four friendly women invited Ryan to come with them to Faces, the local lesbian club. Ryan initially was going to decline the offer but decided what the hell, might as well have some fun.
The women entered the club and found an empty table. As they talked, a waitress came over to take their orders. The ladies opted to order two pictures of beer. Ryan, not a beer drinker, ordered a whisky sour.
Ryan felt a connection with her newfound friends. They embraced her as if they had known her for years. Looking around the table at the group of women, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. It’s been a long time since Ryan sat around joking and laughing with people.
There was Jala, a martial arts expert who, like Ryan, was trying to decide where she wanted to reside. Her set date was two weeks after Ryan’s.
Then there was Rhea and Viola, a married couple that had been together for over 70 years, accompanied by their daughter Chelsea who was visiting them.
Ryan watched Rhea and Viola exchange endearing smiles and gentle touches. With each word they shared and every shared laughter, it was evident that their connection transcended the passage of time. Ryan’s mind drifted to Sophie and how she longed to have that level of connection with her.
Chelsea nudged Ryan. She shook her head in a mixture of amusement and mild embarrassment. “After 70 years, you would think they would grow tired of all the PDA,” she chuckled.
Ryan smiled. “Well, I think it’s cute… “Hey, how often do you visit your parents?” Ryan asked.
“Five days out of a month. It's not much, but at least I get to see them.”
“Hey Ryan, did you make your decision on what town you are going to reside in?” Rhea interrupts the conversation between Ryan and her daughter.
“Yes, San Edistor.”
“Oh, that’s a good choice. I love it there.” Rhea acknowledged.
As the group continued conversing, the DJ walked to the DJ booth and started playing 80’s music.
“Ooh, not they are playing old school music?” Chelsa interrupted. “This is my jam…It’s like candy.. Come on y'all let's dance.”
The group, including Ryan, got up and headed to the dance floor. They were all dancing amongst each other, singing loudly..
It's like candy (candy) (Ooh, vanilla, oh, chocolate)
Look real nice (real nice), wrapped up tight You're so dandy (dandy)
(Would you mind if I had a little bit more of your time?)
Giving me a heart attack
It's the kind I like (oh)
It's like candy (candy)
After the song ended, Ryan returned to her seat and watched the group continue to dance. She wasn’t the best of dancers. She willed herself to go out there and dance, but one song was enough for her.
She hadn’t been seated long when a woman approached her table.
Hi.” The woman said. “I couldn’t help but notice how beautiful your smile is, and I wanted to stop by and tell you.”
“Thank you.” Ryan beams.
The woman takes a seat across from Ryan. “I saw you on the dance floor. Girl, you got some moves."
Ryan laughed. “Ok, now you just flirting with me. I’m not ashamed to admit I lack rhythm.”
“Ok, Ok.. “ the woman nodded. “I’m kind of rusty at this. Give a sistah a break.”
Ryan smiled. Internally she admitted she was enjoying the attention.
“So, Miss, I lack rhythm. Do you have a special someone?”
Ryan immediately thought about Sophie but shook her head. “No, I don't.”
“I assume you aren’t a resident. It’s a small town, and I know most of the lesbian women in this town.”
“No, I’m not. How long have you lived here...” Ryan asks.
The woman sighs. “I’ve been a resident for a year… Oh, where are my manners.. I’m Deja,” extending her hand for Ryan to shake.
“I’m Ryan,” shaking Deja’s hand.
The smile on Deja’s face faltered as she registered Ryan’s name.
Ryan immediately notices a change in Deja. “Is there something wrong?” She asks.
Could it be? Deja thought. She needed to confirm that this was the very same person whose name crossed Sophie’s lips while they were making out. “Do you know a Sophie Moore? Gorgeous light caramel complexion, 5’8’ with dark hair.” Deja asks.
Ryan was confused. How did Deja know she knew Sophie? “Yes, but..how.. do you know I knew her?”
Deja’s heart skipped a beat. So, it is the Ryan. She was sure of it. How many women named Ryan that’s in the program know Sophie? Deja’s gaze fixated on Ryan, studying her with an intensity fueled by jealousy. In Deja’s mind, Ryan’s mere presence threatened the fragile bond she shared with Sophie.
As Deja thought about how to respond to Ryan, she forced a smile while masking the brewing storm within her. “Sophie never mentioned me?” Avoiding Ryan’s initial question.
Ryan looked puzzled. “No., should she?”
A faint smile crossed Deja's face. “It’s just Sophie and I have history. We dated for a while, and we still meet up on occasion. She was here on Saturday. I’m shocked she didn’t mention me. “
Ryan was at a loss for words. She knew exactly what Deja was eluding to. Her mind raced as she digested Deja’s words. It hasn't been a week, and now this woman, Sophie’s ex, says they hooked up on Saturday. The weight of this revelation bore down on Ryan, leaving her feeling hollow and lost.
Even though she and Sophie were not together, she felt hurt and betrayed. But the initial question still lingered in her mind. What did Sophie tell Deja about her?
Before Ryan could ask Deja the question, her friends returned from the dance floor. Deja capitalized on the opportunity while Ryan was distracted by her friends. She got up and walked away, leaving Ryan to form her own conclusions.