You never planned on stepping foot into Blue Lock. The idea of working with a group of highly competitive, borderline-obsessive soccer players—all men—wasn’t exactly appealing. You had built a steady career as a professional nurse and physical therapist, and frankly, athletes intimidated you.

So when Anri approached you with an offer, you declined almost immediately.

"Blue Lock is an extreme environment," you had told her, shaking your head. "And I don’t think I’d be comfortable working in a place full of only men."

Anri looked disappointed but didn’t push. You thought that was the end of it—until Ego himself stepped in.

He made you an offer that was almost too good to refuse. Financial security, state-of-the-art resources at your disposal, and the freedom to work with the best in sports medicine. It was a once-in-a-lifetime career move.

The infirmary door slammed open with a rough shove, making you jolt slightly. You turned, expecting one of the usual players who often stumbled in after reckless training sessions. Instead, you were met with a towering figure—broad, muscular, and clearly exhausted.

Barou Shoei.

You’d seen him before, of course. It was hard not to notice him. His presence was larger than life. But right now, he looked… human. His breaths were uneven, his normally upright posture slightly slouched, sweat clinging to his skin. It was obvious—he had pushed himself too hard.

For a second, he just stared.

You could almost see the realization click into place—the sudden understanding that you were the one who would be treating him. His brows furrowed, and his lips pressed into a thin line.

You raised an eyebrow. "Sit down."

With a huff, Barou finally stepped forward and sat on the medical bed, legs spread apart as he leaned forward, forearms resting on his thighs.

"You’re overworked," you stated bluntly, kneeling slightly to check the tension in his legs.

"Tch." Barou clicked his tongue, eyes narrowing slightly. "I don’t need some kid lecturing me."