Back in high school, we used to sneak off to smoke together, just out of curiosity. Now, as she tossed me a cigarette, it seemed like we’d both picked up the habit.

She watched how naturally I took the cigarette and laughed. “I never would’ve guessed that the teacher’s favorite student would end up with this bad habit.”

“Habits aren’t good or bad. It’s just about whether they suit you or not,” I said with a smile. Leaning in, I let her light my ...