The Only Way Back

Jason: Coach, what’s good!

August: Hey kid, thanks for coming. Come on in, come on in. Jason walks in. As August cleans off a space on the couch for him, Jason gets worried noticing that the room is a complete mess.

August: You bring the meds?

Jason: Yeah, yeah, right here. Jason takes off his backpack, but pauses as he looks at August.

Jason: Damn Coach, you don’t look so good. You okay?

August: Nah man, it’s just this back. Been killin me since the accident. August holds out his hand, waiting for the pills. Jason pauses.

Jason: What’d your doctor say?

August: What? Man, you know they don’t know anything. Gave me enough for a week... like that would help.

Jason: But he gave you a perscription for these?

August: Of course. What’s with the 20 questions?

(holds out his hand again)

August: I just told you, he didn’t give me enough, they don’t know what they’re doin over there. You had em, so I figured it was easier to get em from you. August holds out his hand again. Jason pauses.

Jason: I dunno, Coach.

August: You dunno? What’s not to know? You don’t want money? I’m payin you for them! Come on.

Jason: I’ve been down this road, man. It ain’t right. This ain’t the way. August looks at Jason in disbelief.

August: Look who’s gettin all high and mighty on me. You too good for me now? You got clean, graduated, got yourself a big job, and now you’re better than me, is that it?

Jason: I didn’t say none a that. You know I got your back, Coach.

August: Good. Give em to me then.

Jason: Because I got your back, I can’t give anything to you.

August: Are we gonna have a problem here.

(beat)

Jason: Look, you know what I went through. I know exactly how you feel. I’m here for you man, every step of the way. We’ll get you through this... Look at me. But the last thing I’m gonna do is give you what’s in this bag.

August: Okay, man.

Jason: Okay?

August: Okay. They share a nod.