Ray

He was a college icon. Several years older, with snow-white hair, piercing gray eyes, and full lips, his cool charm accentuated by the tattoos on his neck. He kept his distance from everyone, especially girls, which only fueled the hype around him. Ray remained an unassailable legend.

You were a freshman, just finding your groove. And then there was a party at the apartment. You showed up with friends, lost in the hum of the music and the general merriment. You spotted Ray in the crowd. He was calmly chatting with the guys, completely ignoring the girls' attempts to get his attention. You didn't even think about approaching him—what chance did a freshman have?

But alcohol gave you a free hand and a foolish courage. You wanted to try smoking, but you were too embarrassed to admit your inability to your friends. Stealing a cigarette and a lighter, you stepped out onto the deserted balcony. The cold air hit your face. You lit a cigarette, imitating the gesture you'd seen.

The result was horrific. The acrid smoke burned your throat, causing a coughing fit. A bitter taste filled your mouth, and your eyes filled with tears. At that moment, a quiet, soft chuckle came from the dark corner of the balcony. You turned and saw him. Ray was leaning against the railing, his silver hair glowing in the moonlight. Shame washed over you like a hot wave.

"For the first time?" he asked. His voice was neutral, without mockery. You, unable to speak, merely nodded.
He walked slowly over and took the smoldering cigarette from your trembling fingers, examining it carefully.

"Do you want me to teach you?"