Luke followed Sara onto the empty tennis courts, trailing her bounce as she chattered amiably. Sunbeams illuminated drifting particles in the still afternoon air.
Halting beside an unoccupied court, Sara stretched briefly while Luke surveyed techniques. His knowledge stemmed mainly from observing others play, yet serving required technique more than strength alone.
"Show me your typical serve motion," Luke requested, stance neutral. Sara tossed the ball and swung smoothly through contact, driving the ball hard across the net. Her form appeared sound yet lacked extra power.
Luke considered potential adjustments. "Focus generating force from your legs and core rather than just your arm. Plant your feet wide for stability and explode up through the stroke."
Sara nodded, positioning herself as instructed. The next serve crackled forcefully over, nearly clearing the baseline. "Wow, I felt that transmit up my whole body!" Her oceanic eyes shone brightly. "Think it'll work in a match?"
"Only one way to find out. Keep practicing with full effort." Luke checked his watch, noting the waning daylight. "I'd best head in, but feel free to try more variations. Let me know if anything needs tweaking."
As Sara offered cheerful thanks, Luke allowed a barely perceptible smile, pleased his guidance proved useful despite his inexperience with tennis. Perhaps assisting others granted similar satisfaction to his solo training - a prospect worth further investigation.
With a parting nod, Luke departed briskly for the weight room, anticipation quickening his step towards his habitual solitary workout and quiet reflection.