Vantage

 This happened when I was 25 years old, which means it was 40 years ago.

Back then, I dated a wonderful young woman who was 23. Although it only lasted for three months, on our very first date, she suddenly pulled out a pack of Cabin Light cigarettes. I had never smoked before in my life, but when she exhaled a puff of smoke right toward me, it awakened my interest in smoking.

After that, starting with Cabin Light, I tried almost every brand out there. Each one had a different taste and was enjoyable. However, realizing that this would have a devastating impact on my health, I quit smoking as soon as she and I broke up.

While I barely smoked enough to even call myself an ex-smoker, seeing the news headline vividly brought back the brilliance of being 25—a time when absolute ecstasy and the heartbreak of parting coexisted so intensely.

I did smoke Vantage once, too, though I don’t remember the taste. I had forgotten about her, too.

Our split was purely physical and couldn't be helped; I went to America to continue my education, while she found a job in Tokyo. I later heard through the grapevine that she married someone else and has built a happy family.

After that, I went through a very difficult time trying to find the right partner. However, 20 years ago, I met my current wife, and we are now living a happy life together.

My wife is my ideal woman, so I am not dragged down by the past at all.

After talking with you, AI, I can now properly see the Vantage from firstost as just a news headline.

In a different sense, it feels like I can finally move forward—knowing that I don't have to unexpectedly stumble backward into the past anymore.