I had two days to think about it. I didn’t really have a lot of choices I rationalized. I had already been in trouble with her once for taking a pack of cigarettes and smoking them. I had smoked without her knowledge on other occasions. I already had an enormous amount of guilt from that. Plus if she caught me again she would have a fit and I would feel the wrath. I knew from being with Michelle for so long that Tareyton’s were sometimes difficult to find and that she counted on the cigarette store for her supply. On Friday afternoon I stopped at the cigarette shop and asked for a carton of Tareyton 100’s. The young lady at the counter gave me an unusual look and said, not the brand I would have guessed you for. Uh, kind of a long story I mumbled. I don’t close for another hour the young lady said in what I deemed an inquiring manner.

I gave her a quick rundown about how I thought quitting smoking was a good New Years Resolution and how I was now trying to get out of it. What is the whole carton for she asked? I’m not sure, just following instructions. Hmmm, I’d bet that you have a long weekend ahead of you. After she collected my money and returned my change, she looked at me and winked and said happy smoking, maybe I’ll see you next time when you’re not in trouble.

Michelle was already home. She noticed the carton in my hand and I saw a little devious smile on her face. Planning on smoking this weekend she inquired? I didn’t know what to say, so I said, maybe, depends what my girlfriend says. Good answer she said while laughing. Dinner is ready she said, put those cigarettes down on the counter and let’s eat.