A drag or two

A smoker's permission to breathe,
Old Hollywood style.
To have a companion when in need of one,
A distraction,
Or be comfortably alone at the café.
To cheat a friend out of their undivided attention,
And delight in an exclusive occupation.
To have something to live for,
Or to make one's prime a foe.

Burning cash.
Easily, anxiously.
And a bitter kiss.

For Nicky