PICKING UP THE SLACK

Backstage at the PPG Paints Arena, fluorescent lights buzz overhead and cast a harsh glow on the concrete walls and floor.

Adam Ellis leans against the wall, his arms crossed over his chest.  With him as always- Ginny Van Lear, his wife and manager, her fiery red hair contrasting sharply with the drab surroundings.

Adam Ellis: Tonight’s match is gonna be tough.

Adam speaks in a voice low and focused.

Adam Ellis: I know what Arthur Pleasant can do – I’ve seen it firsthand.

Adam rubs his chin as if he’s remembering back at the bruises and blood from their previous encounter.

Adam Ellis: Tonight’s match is gonna be different from our last encounter. There’s a big difference between the Adam Ellis who teamed up with John Sektor to defend the HOW Tag Team titles against Arthur Pleasant and JJR last April and the Adam Ellis who’s stepping into the ring tonight.

Adam shifts his weight.

Adam Ellis: Yes, I can still feel the sting of that loss that cost us the HOW Tag Team titles.  John had an off night… and I wasn’t ready to pick up the slack.  But that isn’t who Adam Ellis is today.  Adam Ellis is a much different wrestler than he was last year- stronger, faster, and more determined than ever before.      

Drawing in a deep breath, Adam stares down the corridor that led to the ring, determination radiating from every atom of his being.

Adam Ellis: And Arthur Pleasant is gonna find that out in just a few minutes.

Ginny gave him an encouraging smile, laying a hand on his arm and feeling the power and strength beneath her fingers.

Ginny Van Lear: Ah know yew kin do it, baby.  Jus’ ‘member whut Charlie Blackwell worked on with yew an’ don’t let him get in yer head.

Adam nods and exits down the hallway followed by Ginny as we cut to another backstage area.