THE FINAL LESSON

We return from commercial to see the camera panning to the parking lot where Eddie Cross steps out of his Honda Civic and turns to lock the door with his key. As he does, the distinct resonance of a straight-six Ford motor needing an exhaust gasket and a pair of headlights enter the scene. 

Eddie has just enough time to dive out of the way before Dave Gibson’s truck smashes into the compact car pushing it into the wall as the truck horn blasts, a result of the impact. Dave swings open his door and his cowboy boots hit the asphalt echoing through the garage. 

EC has enough time to shake the shock out of his system before Dave swarms on him, piling on strikes and stomps. The veteran doesn’t give Eddie a chance to breathe, and before long, the young man is laying on the tar, hands over his head as his former mentor stands over him.

Gibson wraps a hand in Eddie’s hair, yanking his head up as blood is flowing from his forehead. He delivers a series of measured punches, yelling at his former protege as he does.

Dave Gibson: YOU! *smack*

Dave Gibson: NEVER! *smack*

Dave Gibson: FUCKING! *smack*

Dave Gibson: LEARN! *smack*

The smacks get … wetter as the flow of blood from Eddie’s head increases. After the fourth impact, the rookie’s head is lolling on its shoulders. Dave pulls him in close.

Dave Gibson: You don’t fucking get it, kid. What separates you from me is that I… am willing to do things that you’re not. I’m willing to cross those lines. Suspensions… fines… I could give two shits. I do what I want. This company wouldn’t exist without me. This business is built on my broken back and neck. What are YOU prepared to do? Huh?!? Don’t you pass out on me now!

Gibson delivers a wicked open-handed slap. Eddie ends up in all fours on the ground, groaning.

Dave finally has enough and drags Eddie by his hair and throws him in the bed of his truck. He looks at the reliable old beast and kicks it a couple times, which makes the horn stop blaring. He closes the door with a metal on metal creak and backs out, pulling away speedily with Eddie still in the back. We then cut to… another pre-tape? Is anyone here tonight?!