Bite-sized Love ✓

Day 14: Valentine's Story

Task: Write a love story with a Valentine's theme. Anything related to Valentine's Day.

Word count: 500 words

Day: March 13, 2024

***
I glanced at the calendar in front of me: "February 13" the letters announced boldly. Tomorrow was the day - Valentine's Day.

My relationship to this date had changed over the past years. From unknowingness about its societal relevance, to myself being hopeful to receive flowers or chocolate in school. I had even been envious of classmates lucky enough to live the dream. 

After a one-year "situationship" at university that had taken a high mental toll and led to the deterioration of important relationships in my life, I was certain of one thing: 

From that year onwards, Valentine's Day would be my Mental Health Day dedicated to show care towards myself and those who anchor me in life. 

Thus, the past three years, I had spent Valentine's Day doing activities I love and had sent creative appreciation messages to my family and friends. 

This year would be no exception. The trip to my destination city was already booked, and the appreciation messages for family and friends were prepared.

* ♡ *

On Valentine's Day, I woke up feeling great. I stood up and took my time to get ready, applied my flowery perfume, and decided to wear my favorite earrings. Miley Cyrus' "Flowers" was giving the right musical background vibe that morning.

I turned the page of the calendar to "February 14". On the backside of the sheet, it said:

Question of the day: What does love mean to you?

With this question in mind, I went to the central station and took the intercity. 

On the train, I observed my surroundings. A woman a few rows back held four heart-shaped balloons. A guy passed by with a big brown teddy bear in his arms. I had also seen quite a number of flowers.

Valentine's Day was for many equivalent to giving a gift to a loved one. 

Love has a very material side. But what does love mean to me?

I also appreciated gifts of affection, but also words of appreciation. Recently, I had discovered that taking time and putting effort and attention in the interaction felt for me like being loved.

Two stations before I had to get off the train, an old couple boarded and took the seats across from me. I couldn't help but ask: "Sorry for the direct question, but: are you two a couple?"

They looked at me curiously: "Yes, we are," answered the woman.

"Today is Valentine's Day, and I've been wondering: How long have you been together? And what does love mean to you?"

The couple smiled at each other, and the man said: "We've been together for 45 years now. We actually met in a train from Lille to Paris, so you asking us this here is a funny coincidence." 

The woman added: "To me, love is feeling at home. And I feel at home wherever my partner is. Being safe and appreciated - in good and bad times."

I thanked them with a smile and continued my journey.

***
498 words