Page 5 of Anyone But Her

"He looks different."

"He's put on some weight since his injury. He stopped competing last year when he hurt his back."

"You think he'll play again?"

"Probably not, but I'm sure his son will compete someday." He points to the screen. "That's him. He's around your age."

There's a young boy standing behind his dad. He looks bored, kicking the grass as he looks down at the ground.

"You really think he'll compete someday?"

"Most definitely. His father's had him playing since he was a young boy. From what I've heard, he's quite good. You could be just as good, Luke, if you get out there and practice."

"I will. I promise."

As I watch the TV I notice a girl peeking around the young boy. She steps up beside him as Tuckerman continues to talk to the sportscaster. She makes a goofy face at the camera, then smiles.

"Who's that?" I ask, my eyes refusing to leave the girl. I've never really paid much attention to girls. Until now.

"That's Tuckerman's daughter. I believe her name is Taylor."

"Like the golf clubs," I say, still staring at the girl. She's the most beautiful girl I've ever seen. Shiny blond hair. Bright blue eyes. And a smile that makes my chest feel warm.

"The golf clubs," I hear Albert say, then he laughs. "You're right. I'd forgotten that Tuckerman named his children after golf brands."

The girl. Taylor. She's so beautiful. I can't stop looking at her.

"Luke?"

I feel a nudge of my shoulder and look over at Albert.

"Yeah?"

He smiles. "You know that other secret to happiness? The one I said you weren't ready for?"

"Yeah."

"I think you might be ready."

"What do you mean?"

"Girls."

"What about 'em?"

He motions to the TV. Tuckerman now has his children beside him, his arm around each one. My eyes go to Taylor again.

"Someday you'll meet a girl. A girl you like, who you'll eventually grow to love. If she loves you back...well, you'll know happiness like you've never known it before."

"Like the happiness I feel when I'm golfing?"

He smiles. "Yes. But it's a different type of happiness."

"I don't understand."

"You will. Someday."

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