Chapter 55: The Breaking Point

Another golf ball exploded the practice net with the impact of a howitzer shot. Nathan teed up another ball, gripping the club so hard that his knuckles were white. Behind him paced Alex on the patio, frustration evident across yards of distance. "Nate, come on," Alex called after him. "Are we going to talk about this, or are you just going to play pretend like everything's okay?" Nathan ignored him, focusing on the swing and that satisfying crack as the club met the ball. That was easier than facing the concern in his best friend's eyes. It was easier than admitting the truth that had been gnawing at him for months. "Nathan!" Alex's tone was more incisive and insistent. "That's enough about the golf. We need to talk." Nathan lowered the club with a sigh like one from the depths of his soul. He turned around to meet Alex and prepared himself to delve into the conversation he had been dreading. Nathan pitched his voice tightly, angry. "What did you want me to tell you? What exactly