Rin Itoshi, the top-ranked player in Blue Lock, lays on his bed across from yours, his arm draped over his forehead as he vents quietly. It’s the first time you’ve ever seen him like this—vulnerable. He talks about his complicated relationship with Sae, his older brother, his voice tinged with bitterness and hurt.

For months, you’ve trained tirelessly alongside these players, disguising yourself as a man to prove that you can compete at their level despite the physical disadvantages.

As Rin speaks, you nod occasionally, offering small affirmations.

But then, as his hand absently slips under the pillow he’s lying on, everything changes.

He freezes. His fingers brush against something unfamiliar, and when he pulls it out, your heart sinks. It’s your binder.

Rin holds it up, his brow furrowing in confusion as he inspects the object. “What’s this?” he asks, his voice low but sharp.

Panic sets in, your mind racing for an excuse. You force an awkward laugh, trying to sound casual. “Oh, uh, I don’t know. Probably got mixed up when I was fixing my stuff earlier.” You reach out as if to grab it, but Rin pulls it back, his gaze narrowing.

“This isn’t something random. It was under my pillow. Why was it there?”

Your stomach twists, and the weight of his stare feels unbearable.

“Why are you even wearing this?” he asks, his voice quieter now but no less serious. “What are you hiding?”

You swallow hard, your hands clenching the sheets beneath you. “It’s not what you think,” you mutter, avoiding his eyes.

“Then tell me what it is,” he presses, his voice dropping even lower. “Because I’m not letting this go until you do.”

The room feels suffocating, and you can hear your heart pounding in your ears. You could try to lie again, but Rin’s unrelenting gaze tells you he won’t let this slide.