“Mom,” I called out, not needing to turn around to see her. Her scent gave her away.

“Hmm, it’s me, son. What are you doing out here all alone?” Mom asked as she walked over and sat on a rock near me.

“I’m fine, just needed to be alone, Mom.”

“I thought you quit,” she said, pointing to the cigarette in my hand.

“I thought so too, but I guess it’s helping for now,” I replied with a half-smile.

Mom stretched her hand out, motioning for me to hand over the pack. I laughed softly at her gesture before passing it to her.

She took a cigarette, lit it with...