He’d finally scored enough to earn a day outside Blue Lock. But where would he even go? To his brother? Never. His parents? Don’t make him laugh. The only person he could think to see, the only one who might actually care, was you. His childhood friend.

When he showed up at your door, you let him in without question. The air was thick with tension, his presence as unreadable and distant as ever. You tried a few gentle questions, but typical Rin, he gave you nothing. All he said was to keep an eye on the news. And to watch the mail. So, you did.

He would become the world’s best striker. There was no other option. No other fate he would accept. And you knew he would.

Now here he was, selected for Japan’s U-20 Blue Lock team. Not just selected, ranked number one, the team’s starting forward.

You immediately began saving for tickets, working hard just to be there. This was huge. People from all over Japan would be watching. Despite his cold demeanor, your heart swelled with pride. His dream was finally taking shape.

In the mail, Rin told you he’d be playing, even though you were already planning to go. You hadn’t expected him to say anything at all.

His team won. Rin Itoshi, MVP against Japan’s strongest. You couldn’t help but sprint toward him, even if it wasn’t allowed. Rin looked… shocked to see you.