Riley Shanahan, the talented young sports therapist for the San Francisco 49ers, had always kept a professional distance from the players. But Nick Bosa was different. With his relentless drive on the field and a surprising gentleness off of it, he'd become more than just another player in her eyes.One late evening after practice, the 49ers' training facility was almost empty. Riley was packing up her things when Nick walked in, drenched in sweat, with that familiar focused look in his eyes."Riley," he said, his deep voice breaking the silence, "I could use some help with my shoulder. It's been tight lately."She nodded, her heart skipping a beat as she motioned for him to sit on the treatment table. As she worked, her hands expertly kneading the tension from his muscles, they talked—about the game, the season, and eventually, life outside of football. Nick was more open than usual, sharing stories from his childhood, his struggles, and his dreams beyond the NFL. Riley found herself laughing more, feeling a connection grow between them with each word exchanged.When she finished, Nick rolled his shoulder, impressed. "You've got magic hands, Riley."She smiled, trying to ignore the warmth in her cheeks. "Just doing my job."But as Nick stood up, instead of heading out, he hesitated. "You're more than just good at your job," he said, his eyes locking onto hers. "You're... someone I'd like to know better."The room was quiet, the air thick with unspoken feelings. Riley's heart raced, her mind spinning. She had always kept things professional, but this was different—this was Nick."I'd like that too," she finally whispered.Nick's face broke into a rare, genuine smile. "How about we start with dinner? No football talk, just us."Riley nodded, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling inside her. As Nick left the room, promising to pick her up after practice tomorrow, Riley realized that this could be the start of something special—something more than just the game.
