I knew Valentine's Day was fast approaching when I was perusing the paperbacks in Agha's super market, and at least three people shoved me out of the way so that they could get to the Valentine's card stand. I rubbed my sore arm and gave the offenders dirty looks, but the love light shone in their glazed eyes as they reached out for the cards, all in blood red, that declared undying love for --- well, their loved ones.
      After they had gone away, I took a look at the cards, but their sentiments only made me want to gag. I turned for quick relief to the chocolate counter, where I looked for some sweets to soothe my insulted stomach. What did I see there, but bags and boxes of Valentine's Day candy, packed in special red packaging with hearts all over them (prices adjusted accordingly --- isn't she worth it?). Perhaps I should have gone for the antacids instead, I thought to myself.
      Today, red roses, heart-shaped balloons, teddy bears with pink hearts, and all the other trappings of love will delugus. Banners will appear all over the city specially printed by devoted Romeos imploring their darling Munnos and lovely Buntys never to leave them, to stay true to them, and so on and so forth. Less wealthy Romeos and teenaged boys will comfort themselves by scrawling graffiti messages on the sides of the wealthy Romeos' mansions in Defence: "I am the stud master of your heart" and "Hunny, luv me 4 eva!" are my particular favourites.
      Restaurants and shops will join in the fun as well. The newspaper will star to carry advertisements for special Valentine's meals, deals, banquets, and disco nights. All the merchandise that you Next>