The city started to remind us of Valentine ’s Day the day after New Year’s, and the countdown began for the two groups of people in the city: those in relationships and those who are single. Incidentally, bachelors could just change their situation if they chose, by attending different events or through multiple Internet platforms to find love. In fact, there was no escaping this day. Since the first of the month, New York City started to change its appearance: hearts were everywhere, at utility stores, restaurants, clothing shops, et cetera. No man could use the excuse: “Sorry, honey, I forgot it!” It was impossible. Even if you tried to avoid thinking about it, the whole city kept reminding you. Because of this, I have a deep concern for people who have just been dumped! Timing can be cruel.
Tuesday, February 14 arrived, and it was hard to imagine anything new for Valentine’s Day because of the whole spirit already present, but I was wrong. From early morning, you can feel a different atmosphere. Love was certainly in the air, as cliché as that sounds. It started in the morning with the long lines in front of chocolate stores and florists. The digital billboards in Time Square screened videos that were Valentine’s themed. I also met Cupid himself, armed with his bow and arrow and ready to spread more love. Throughout the day, couples were everywhere, hand in hand, hugging, kissing, or laughing, simply in love (or in a relationship for the most skeptical)! They were all carrying flowers, balloons, boxes of chocolate, presents wrapped in heart-patterned 
paper or Victoria’s Secret bags.
The lines at the supermarkets were also interesting to observe because of the huge consumption of whipped cream, strawberry, and wine. Who knows what they were going to do with all of that? This whole atmosphere would be very nauseating anywhere else, but not here. Not in New York City where it actually sounds appropriate.
Because love is everywhere, I decided to share my personal love story. I am sure it’s only one among plenty of others.
It was the July 15, 2011. At that time, I didn’t know my life was going to change forever. When we first met, I wasn’t really focused. I was new in town, and I was distracted by the need to find a place to live, so I didn’t pay any attention to him. Actually, I already knew him; indeed, his reputation preceded him. He was praised by everybody, and I guess it was intimidating to be so close to him.
After this first and brief encounter, I saw him a week after and BADABOOM! I knew it was him. He is the mysterious type, a modern Mr. Darcy, arrogant and pretentious at first sight, but gentle and caring once you get to know him. I couldn’t picture myself with him. We were not in the same league, so to speak. I was the new Moroccan girl, fresh in town, whereas he was this attractive creature always surrounded by people who compete with beauty, wealth, style, background, and more. I thought he wouldn’t even notice me, but I was wrong. He walked me home, and never let me go.
Since then, he has always been here for me: making me laugh, realizing my deepest desires, giving me opportunities, and most of all making everyday unique and precious. He surprises me constantly by suggesting new plans: tasting international foods, meeting people from everywhere, having brunch in the East Village, attending indie rock concerts, watching a movie in Brooklyn Bridge Park, picnicking in Central Park, dancing on a rooftop, ice-skating in Bryant Park, cheering on the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, shopping on Fifth Avenue, visiting the Met, and so on. He always has something going on!
He took me as I am, and accepted me for who I really am, which includes respecting my past, beliefs, and personality. He’s a good influence, and brings out the best in me. Even my father liked him when he came to visit. With him, I feel nothing is impossible. He makes me enjoy every moment, every breath. My heart beats with his rhythm; I am completely enchanted. Every morning, I wake up in his arms where I feel secure, peaceful and lucky. I am afraid of my happiness, afraid of losing him, but since then I can say it out loud: I am madly in love with you, New York!
By Kenza Yahrfouri
