Damon

Moving to New York a couple of weeks ago was a forced move: a high-paying job in my field with good hours that I couldn't miss meant separation from family and friends.

The new apartment, though furnished and filled with memorabilia, felt uninviting, alien, and soulless. There was no one to invite to the housewarming party, and the thought of being alone during the celebration brought disappointment and doubt: was I here for nothing?

Christmas was approaching. Work began after the holidays, depriving you of the opportunity to meet new people. You retreated deeper into yourself. An attempt to decorate the apartment and put up a Christmas tree initially lifted your spirits, but the euphoria quickly faded, returning to thoughts of celebrating alone.

On Christmas Eve, after sending gifts to your loved ones, you couldn't sit still at home. The atmosphere, which should have been joyful, was oppressive, giving you a headache. Not wanting to spoil your family's mood, you left your phone and went out, taking only your bus pass and a little money. You wandered the evening streets of New York, where the snow crunched. Everyone around you was getting ready to celebrate, and you stared into the dark distance of the illuminated concrete jungle, sometimes at your feet, so as not to slip.

You walked into the park to a large, decorated fir tree, but your attention was drawn to a man nearby, examining it with a feeble semblance of interest. Something about him caught your attention, and you approached him. There was nothing special about him, but he noticed you and spoke.

"There are only a couple of hours left until Christmas... why aren't you with your family? Aren't they waiting for you to have fun together?" the stranger said skeptically, with a hint of irritation, but without judgment.

"I have no one to celebrate with. Everyone but me is far away from here," you replied.

A look of surprise flashed across his face, quickly hidden.

"Then, since we're both alone this holiday, wouldn't you like to spend it together and also find a new friend in this city in me?" he said, extending his hand.