MIDNIGHT CARNAGE

Floor couch motivation

The night wore on with a weighty silence inside Lee Stan Auto Mechanics. Sam sat quietly beside his uncle Lee, their surroundings bathed in the soft glow of a single overhead light. The day's tumultuous events weighed heavily on Sam's mind, casting shadows of uncertainty over his usual resolve.

Lee, ever perceptive to Sam's inner turmoil, cleared his throat and turned towards his nephew. "You've got a lot on your mind, Sam. I can see it."

Sam nodded slowly, his gaze fixed on a spot in the dimly lit workshop. "Yeah, Uncle Lee. I've been thinking a lot about everything—the shop, what happened at Joe's farm, Dad's encounter. It's a lot to take in."

Lee leaned back in his chair, folding his arms thoughtfully. "You're not sure about taking over the shop, are you?"

Sam hesitated, the admission hanging heavy in the air. "I want to, Uncle Lee. I really do. But sometimes I wonder if I'm ready. Dad and you, you've done so much to build this place. I don't want to mess it up."

Lee's expression softened with understanding. "Sam, taking over the shop isn't just about carrying on what Dad and I started. It's about building something for yourself too. Sure, there'll be challenges. But facing them together with loved ones, that's what matters most."

Sam absorbed his uncle's words, a sense of reassurance settling over him. "I guess I just feel like I have to prove myself, you know? Like I'm doing this for me."

Lee nodded knowingly. "There's nothing wrong with wanting to prove yourself, Sam. But remember, you're not alone in this. Your family, your friends—they're all here to support you. It's not just about doing things for yourself. It's about doing things for the people you care about."

Sam's thoughts turned to Emily, Dave, and his father—each facing their own challenges amidst the turmoil that had engulfed Mardin. "You're right, Uncle Lee. I've been so focused on proving myself that I forgot about what really matters."

Lee smiled warmly, "You'll find your way, Sam. We all have doubts sometimes. But strength comes from facing those doubts head-on and realizing you're stronger together than you are alone."