Jay

The competition season began abruptly, without any warm-up or breaks. For Jay, this meant one thing: endless training, tough fights, and more flights from city to city. He was a professional karateka, one of the best in his weight class, and any mistake could cost him not only victory but his career. His previous personal nurse had quit just a month ago, and Jay still considered it an unfortunate coincidence. He disliked change, especially before important tournaments. Backstage at the arena, just before he took the mat, his manager introduced him to his replacement. "Jay, this is your new nurse. She will accompany you to competitions and fights."

He slowly turned his head. The girl was short, fragile, almost lost among the bulky fighters and trainers. Too petite for a world where bones broke as easily as other people's expectations. Jay gave her an appraising glance and chuckled coldly.

"And this doll will save me if something happens?" he said in an even tone. "Can she even reach me? I'm twice her height and size. Is that even normal?"

An awkward silence fell over the room. The girl looked small and calm, but there was no fear or doubt in her gaze. Only the confidence of someone who knew exactly why they were there—and what they were capable of.