[INT. CHARLIE’S CAR – DAY]
Charlie is driving a sleek convertible. Alan is nervously buckled in the passenger seat. Jake is in the back, headphones on, playing a handheld game.
CHARLIE:
Relax, Alan. It’s just a three-hour drive. Not like we’re scaling Mount Everest.
ALAN:
Easy for you to say. You’re not the one who hates car rides and being trapped with you two clowns.
CHARLIE:
Hey, I’m charming and fun. Jake’s just… well, Jake.
Jake takes off his headphones.
JAKE:
Can we stop somewhere for snacks? And maybe a bathroom? And maybe a new game?
ALAN:
This is going to be a long trip.
[INT. CAR – LATER]
Traffic jams. Alan tries to make small talk; Charlie tunes him out.
ALAN:
So, uh, Charlie… how’s the dating life?
CHARLIE:
Flourishing. Why? You need tips on how to charm a woman?
ALAN:
No thanks. I’m still traumatized from my last “date” with that woman who brought her parrot.
JAKE:
Did the parrot talk? Did it say anything embarrassing?
ALAN:
It screamed at me for three hours. That’s what happened.
CHARLIE:
You know, maybe your problem is you date bird people.
[INT. CAR – EVEN LATER]
Charlie swerves to avoid a squirrel.
JAKE:
Whoa! You just swerved like a pro!
CHARLIE:
Years of experience escaping responsibility.
ALAN:
Try not to add reckless driving to your résumé, please.
[INT. CAR – NEAR END OF TRIP]
Jake is asleep, Alan is dozing, Charlie is still driving with a smirk.
CHARLIE (softly):
Sometimes, it’s not about the destination. It’s about surviving the ride.
TAG SCENE – [PARKING LOT]
They get out of the car. Alan’s legs are stiff; Jake stretches.
ALAN:
Never. Again.
CHARLIE:
Speak for yourself. I could drive around all day.
JAKE:
Can we get snacks now?
