"Operant. You'll want to see this."

Lines 15
Start of the conversation
"Operant. You'll want to see this."
long, steady puff
"O tempore..."
"Large windows. Pricks the nerves."
"My cardiologist has advised against unnecessary exertion."
lighter flicking
"Drawn to trouble like whores to mud."
long, heavy sigh
"That beep's to let me know I'm still alive."
"Notices little, retains less."
"Much to recommend about a bar that's open before noon."
"A word, operant."
"Can still smoke in here. Last outpost of civilisation."
"Tolerable ambience."
"Probably nothing. Probably."