[He walks over, and looks down at Ed in that "I'm in your space because this is important" kind of way.]

You do have a future. I am investing in that future. Time, information, reputation, training. Once you graduate you can go anywhere you want, to any world you want. I know it seems very bleak right now. I spent my first four months here in a grand sulk that embarrasses me now to think about.

But...let's put me on the hook for a while. Ask me...whatever you want.

And then I am going to ask you to hit me.