In honor of Valentine's Day, I've decided to post a very short story. This is just a bit of anonymous love between two people. I hope it puts you in the mood and makes you appreciate the one you're with, or the one you're wishing you were with.
“Oh my God, what time is it there?”
“It’s about nine.”
“In the morning?” I was confused.
“At night.”
“I can’t believe you’re calling me.”
“I had to. I miss you.”
I smiled. “I miss you, too.”
“Besides, I wanted to wish you a happy—”
“No!” I cut him off. “We’re not doing this, remember?”
He laughed, “I don’t even get to say it?”
“No. We’re celebrating after you get home.”
“But today’s the day.”
“Yeah, I know. But we agreed to pretend it’s next week.”
“I know, I know. 'The Twentieth is the New Fourteenth.' But I figured you’d like to hear from me on the actual day.”
“Today is not the day. Not for us,” I said.
He laughed again. “I didn’t realize you were taking this so seriously.”
“I am. I’m in total media blackout mode.”
“What does that mean?”
“I’m not acknowledging the holiday. No cards, no chocolate, none of it. I won’t even say it.”
“You do realize this is a completely fabricated holiday, right?” he asked. “It’s just the greeting card industry making some money.”
“Not from me they're not. Not today.”
“Well, if it makes you feel better, I haven’t said it to anyone today.”
I nodded. “I appreciate that.”
“So, I guess I just wasted a very expensive phone call to not wish you a Happy…whatever.”
“It wasn’t a waste,” I assured him. “I’m just happy to hear your voice.”
“Well, that’s good.”
“Hurry home, okay?” I said, blinking hard.
“I’m trying.” He sighed. “I should probably go.”
“Okay. Have a good night.”
“Have a good day,” he countered.
I smiled. “I’ll try.”
“I luh—” he started.
“Nope!” I interrupted. “Not today you don’t.”
“Yes, I do,” he laughed.
“Well, fine. But save it for the Twentieth, okay?”
“Okay, crazy girl. I’ll humor you.”
“Thank you.”
“But, I do. Just so you know.”
I smiled. “Yeah, I do, too.”
“Bye, Babe.”
“Goodnight.”
Happy Valentine's Day!
- Liz
