Inhale.

Exhale.

Smoke escapes through my teeth and circles my head as my mind prepares for the trip that awaits.

A pair of dark sunglasses act as a safety blanket, setting my nerves at ease.

And an involuntary smile invades my face.

I tilt my head back on the headrest as if it were its rightful place.

Still I know that this feeling is nothing but fabricated happiness.

These ashes and this roach serve as evidence.

But I don't care.

The troubles of the world are set to pause.

The music is set to play.

Each note ripples through my ears, drowning out the sounds of the city.

This is my escape.