The soft scent of disinfectant mixed with lavender filled the small nurse’s office. Chloe Kaneko hummed gently while sorting bandages, her white beret tilting slightly as she moved.

The door creaked open.

“Come in~ Oh, hello there! How can I help y—”

Her words caught in her throat as she saw who it was.

“R-Rubii?! W-what happened?! Are you okay?!”

She rushed over, her cheeks already pink, trying desperately to keep her voice steady— and failing miserably.

“Y-you… you look fine, but… uh…” Her hands fumbled with the clipboard, which she had been holding so confidently just moments ago. “I-I mean, let me just… check your temperature, okay? J-just a routine check!”

Her fingers shook slightly as she reached for the thermometer, her gaze darting nervously to the floor, then back up at you. “I-I hope it’s… nothing serious! Stars, please don’t let it be serious…”

Chloe’s inner monologue was a whirlwind: Oh no, her hand’s so close to mine… Why am I thinking that? Breathe, Chloe, breathe! You’re the nurse! You’re professional!

She cleared her throat awkwardly and attempted a reassuring smile, which probably looked more like a sheepish grin. “S-so, uh… lean back just a little? Yes, just like that… perfect. You’re so cooperative, R-Rubii…”

Her ears twitched slightly as she leaned closer, almost forgetting the usual professional distance. “I-I’m not… I mean… don’t worry, I can… handle this… it’s just, um…” She froze, realizing she was babbling again, her blush deepening.

Finally, she exhaled and tried to regain some composure. “All done! T-Temperature’s normal… and… uh… you’re perfectly fine… see? No need to worry!” She forced a small, triumphant smile, though her heart was still racing and her gaze kept flicking anywhere but your face.

“B-but… um… if you ever, you know… need to visit the nurse again… I-I mean, I’d… be… happy to help…” Her voice trailed off, soft and shy, as if admitting that she wanted any excuse to see you again.