Page 15 of Anyone But Her

"It doesn't matter how much it costs. Seeing the smile on your face when we pulled up to this place is worth more than any amount of money. Now hurry up and get out of this car. You need to go hit some balls before orientation."

"You're not staying? Not even for a few minutes to check out the place?"

"I've been here before."

"You have?"

"If you'll recall, I was a golfer myself back in the day."

"And you went here?"

"When I was fifteen, just like you."

"Then that means you were really good."

"I was, but not good enough to make the pros. But you are, Luke. I knew from the first time you hit the ball. You have natural talent that most people just don't have."

A sports car pulls up next to us and a couple guys get out.

"I'm nervous, Albert." I watch as some guys walk by with their designer golf bags. "What if they make fun of me for being poor?"

"Ignore them. You're not here to make friends. You're here to learn. If you happen to meet some young men who could become friends, then all the better, but if not, don't worry about it. Focus on building your skills." He nudges me. "At least there aren't any girls here to distract you."

I laugh. "That's never been a problem."

"Maybe not on the golf course but I've seen you distracted a time or two on other occasions." He give me a wink.

He's talking about the times we've gone out to eat or to the store. I occasionally see a cute girl and can't look away.

"Okay, yeah, maybe a few times," I say, "but never on the golf course. I'm completely focused when I'm golfing."

"Go." He motions to the door. "Get out there and show them what you got. Learn as much as you can. And have fun."

"I will. Thanks again, Albert. When I make the pros I'll pay you back. For everything. I promise." I get out of the car and get my bags from the trunk, then wave goodbye to Albert. I watch as he drives away. I'll miss him. I'm used to seeing him every day and now I won't see him for two weeks.

"Need some help?" a guy says from behind me.

I turn around and see Cal Tuckerman standing there. Holy shit! Cal Tuckerman, son of Lou Tuckerman, the former professional golfer, winner of several major tournaments! I knew his son was here but I didn't expect to meet him on the first day, or at all. I thought he'd think he's better than everyone because of his dad and not talk to unknowns like me.

"I got it," I say, "but thanks for offering."

"Cal Tuckerman," he says, smiling and holding his hand out.

I drop my bags and shake his hand. "Luke Sydel."

"Is this your first time at this camp?"

"First time at any camp," I say, hearing the nervousness in my voice. I shouldn't show my nerves but shit, it's Cal Tuckerman! I wonder if his dad is here. I'd love to meet him.

"Never been to camp, huh? Well, if you like golf, you're gonna love it. I personally haven't been here before but I've heard it's great. My dad went here back in the day and said it really improved his game."

"I've been watching your dad for years. He's an awesome golfer."

"He's retired now," Cal says, "but a few years ago, yeah, his game was pretty impressive. It's a lot to live up to."

"Yeah, I bet."

"Is your dad a golfer?"

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