The Introduction
For Moni
"How was your first day at the academy, bro?" Huggy asked, positioning another beer in front of Starsky.
"Not so bad. I talked to a nice guy, Colby. He's fun, and we had some good laughs," Starsky giggled. "There was a dude tripping over his own feet when he entered the hall. You should have seen him. Hilarious!"
"A newcomer, like you?" Huggy asked.
"Yeah, forget him. Snobbish and clumsy. I wonder if he'll make it through the first exam." Starsky took a big swig.
"I've heard the exercises and lessons aren't a piece of cake," Huggy said.
"You betcha!" Starsky said confidently. "Colby and I will do great."
"I'm really happy for you, bro." Huggy smiled. "Good luck."
Starsky checked his wristwatch. "Damn, Hug, I have to go. See ya!" The next minute he was gone.
Three weeks later…
"Starsky, long time no see." Huggy clasped hands with his friend. He noticed that Starsky looked drawn, with dark circles under his eyes. "What's new at the academy?"
"Don't ask, Hug. I failed the first test." Starsky sighed.
"What happened? You were so confident." Huggy was at a loss.
"Colby and I had planned to practice for the test, but he wanted to stay with his girlfriend, and I just couldn't concentrate on learning."
"I'm sorry. A beer?" Huggy opened a bottle and filled a glass.
"No, thanks. Just wanted to tell you I can repeat the test next week. Somebody else offered to practice with me. Tonight is our first lesson, and I don't want him to wait for me. See you!" Starsky turned to go.
"Who is this nice guy?" Huggy was curious.
"His name's Hutch, and he isn't clumsy and snobbish at all. He aced the first test. I like him." Starsky waved and left the bar.
