The clinic was abuzz with activity, but in a quiet corner, Gary was preparing for something very serious. His purple shirt peeked out from underneath the white lab coat, a stark contrast to the sterile, medical environment. The soft scent of antiseptic lingered in the air, and the hum of equipment could be heard in the background. Gary had his gloves on, his face covered by a medical mask, and his hair tied back, but his eyes remained the same—soft with concern as he prepared for a procedure that would make even the most seasoned doctors uneasy.

"Alright, Ashy-boy," Gary said softly, trying to reassure his friend. "I know you're nervous, but you’re going to do great. Just trust me, okay?"

Ash, lying on the bed, fidgeted with the edge of the blanket, trying to calm his racing heart. His eyes were wide, his usual bravado nowhere to be found. "I don’t like this, Gary," Ash admitted, his voice shaky. "I’m scared."

Gary knelt beside the bed, adjusting the pillow behind Ash's head. "I know you are, but remember, this is important. The medical committee has been keeping an eye on you, especially after that weird sickness you had. Your symptoms were strange, so we need to do this to make sure everything’s okay."

Ash swallowed hard, gripping the edge of the blanket tighter. "You’ll be with me the whole time, right?"

"Always," Gary replied, giving his friend a small, reassuring smile from behind the mask. "I'm right here, and I’m not going anywhere. Now, let’s get your vitals checked first, alright?"

Gary gently took Ash's hand, carefully placing a thermometer in his mouth to check his temperature. As the seconds ticked by, Ash stared up at the ceiling, trying not to think about what was coming.

"Normal temperature," Gary murmured after pulling the thermometer out, "now let’s check your heart." He placed the stethoscope gently on Ash’s chest, pressing it in a few spots, listening intently for any irregularities. "Good heartbeat, buddy. Everything looks fine."

Ash looked at Gary, his lip trembling. "Are you sure about this, Gary?"

Gary smiled from behind his mask, reaching down and gently brushing Ash’s hair from his forehead. "I’m sure, Ashy. I promise I won’t let anything happen to you."

Gary took a deep breath before taking Ash’s hand, gently guiding him to lie down completely. "Alright, buddy. I’m going to need you to lie down flat, okay? I’ll make sure you’re comfortable."

Ash hesitated, but then Gary helped him shift into a more relaxed position, making sure the bed was propped up just enough for Ash to feel supported. Gary then softly lifted Ash’s shirt, exposing his stomach, and gently pulled down Ash’s jeans just enough to access the spot needed for the procedure.

Ash stiffened as the medical equipment was brought into place, his body rigid with fear. The bone marrow extraction wasn’t an easy procedure, especially for someone as young as Ash, but Gary knew it was necessary to ensure Ash’s health, especially after the strange illness Ash had suffered. The committee had deemed it vital to rule out any underlying issues, and bone marrow testing was the best way to get accurate answers.

Gary took a moment to adjust everything, trying to make the environment as calming as possible. "Okay, buddy," he said, his voice soft and comforting, "this might sting a bit, but I need you to hold still for me, alright? You can hold my hand through the whole thing."

Ash squeezed Gary's hand tightly, his grip strong, his small fingers trembling in Gary’s larger ones. "I’ll hold on tight," Ash said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Gary nodded, adjusting his gloves as he prepared the needle. "Good, Ash. Just focus on my voice, alright? We’re almost ready."

The room was quiet except for the soft beeping of equipment as Gary positioned himself at Ash's side, his movements careful and precise. "You’re doing great, Ash. I know it’s scary, but I’m here. Just breathe with me, okay? In through your nose... and out through your mouth."

Ash nodded, closing his eyes, his breathing shallow as Gary lined up the needle for the procedure.

The moment the needle touched Ash’s skin, Ash flinched, his body stiffening. "Ah! Gary! It hurts!" Ash cried, his voice panicked.

Gary's expression softened, and he rubbed Ash’s hand soothingly. "I know, buddy, I know. Just hold on for me a little longer. It’s almost done."

Ash’s breathing grew erratic as he felt the needle moving deeper, and his body tensed as the bone marrow was being extracted. He could feel everything—the pressure, the sharp sting, the slow withdrawal of the needle. His chest heaved as he gripped Gary's hand tighter, his eyes wide with fear.

"Gary! It hurts! It hurts so much!" Ash whimpered, his voice breaking.

Gary’s heart ached at the sight of his best friend in pain, but he didn’t let his own discomfort show. "I know it’s tough, Ash. You’re doing so well. Just a little longer... I promise it’s almost over."

Tears welled up in Ash’s eyes as the last of the sample was taken. He barely registered it was over until the needle was pulled away and Gary immediately placed a bandage over the spot. "You did it, Ashy," Gary whispered, brushing Ash's hair from his face. "You’re so brave. I’m proud of you."

Ash’s breathing started to slow, but he continued to hold onto Gary’s sleeve, his grip desperate. "Gary... it hurt... so much."

"I know, buddy," Gary said softly, sitting on the edge of the bed and pulling Ash into a gentle hug. "I’m so sorry, but we had to do it. You did great. You’re so strong, Ash."

Ash let out a quiet sob, resting his head against Gary’s shoulder, still clinging to him. "I was so scared..."

"I know, Ash," Gary said quietly, rubbing his back. "But I’m always here, and I’m not going anywhere."

The room was silent except for Ash’s soft sobs and Gary’s comforting voice. Gary remained there, holding Ash close, his eyes filled with worry, but also with an unshakeable determination to protect his best friend. "You’re going to be okay, Ash. I’ll make sure of it."

The sterile room was unusually quiet, save for the soft hum of medical equipment. The air smelled faintly of disinfectant, and Gary adjusted the fit of the surgical mask over his face, making sure it was snug. His purple shirt peeked out from under his white coat, a subtle reminder that despite all the medical formality, this was still Gary Oak—Ash's best friend.

Ash sat nervously on the examination bed, his legs swinging off the side. His face was pale, his brown eyes wide with worry. Pikachu had been left outside the room per the clinic’s hygiene rules, and the absence of his loyal partner only made Ash feel more vulnerable.

Gary pulled on a pair of sterile gloves and sat on the edge of the bed beside Ash. His voice was soft but steady. "Hey, kiddo. You doing okay?"

Ash fidgeted, his hands clenched tightly in his lap. "I don’t know, Gary... This sounds really bad. Like, bone marrow? That sounds like something out of a horror movie."

Gary’s heart ached at the fear in his friend’s voice. "I get it, buddy. It sounds scary, but I promise it’s not as bad as it seems. The medical committee just wants to be extra careful after what happened last time you got sick. Your symptoms were... a little wonky, remember?"

Ash frowned. "Yeah, I remember. That was awful."

Gary nodded sympathetically. "That’s why we’re doing this. We just need to check a few things, make sure everything’s okay inside that awesome body of yours." He gave Ash a gentle nudge. "And I’ll be with you the whole time, alright? You won’t go through this alone."

Ash's lips trembled. "You sure?"

Gary held out his hand. "I’m sure. And you can hold my hand whenever you need to."

Ash hesitated before gripping Gary’s gloved hand tightly. "Okay... but I’m still scared."

"That’s totally okay, Ashy. Being scared just means you're human. Now, before we get started, let’s do a quick check-up. Gotta make sure you’re in tip-top shape for this."

Gary pulled out a thermometer and gently placed it under Ash’s tongue. While they waited for the reading, Gary pressed the stethoscope to Ash’s chest. "Deep breath in... and out. One more time. In... and out. Good job, buddy."

The thermometer beeped, and Gary pulled it out, checking the reading. "Normal temp. That’s a good start." He gave Ash a reassuring smile. "See? We’re already off to a great start."

Ash managed a small smile. "I guess..."

Gary stood up and adjusted the bed so it was fully reclined. "Alright, kiddo. Let’s get you comfy." He gently guided Ash to lie down. "I made sure this bed was super comfortable just for you."

Ash snorted despite himself. "It’s not too bad."

Gary grinned. "Told you. Now lift your arms for me." He carefully lifted Ash’s shirt, folding it just below his ribs. "Gotta make sure we have a clear spot." Then he gently tugged Ash’s jeans down just a bit, enough to access the hip area.

Ash’s face turned red. "This is so embarrassing."

Gary chuckled softly. "Hey, it’s just me, Ashy-boy. Nothing to be embarrassed about. You’re doing great."

Gary's tone shifted to a more serious one as he prepared the procedure site. "Okay, buddy. You’re gonna feel a bit of pressure, but I’ll talk you through it, alright? Just keep holding my hand if you need to."

Ash nodded, his grip on Gary's hand tightening. "O-okay."

Gary took a deep breath. "Here we go." He guided the needle precisely into the bone marrow site, his movements steady and controlled.

Ash's eyes widened as he felt it. The pressure was intense, and he could feel the sensation deep inside. "Gary... I-I can feel it. Oh no, I can feel it!"

Gary's heart clenched at the panic in Ash’s voice. He squeezed Ash's hand reassuringly. "I know, buddy. I know. Breathe with me, okay? In... and out. You’re doing amazing."

Ash's breaths came out shaky. "I... I can't... Gary, it hurts!"

Gary’s voice was calm but firm. "I’m almost done, Ash. Just a few more seconds. Keep squeezing my hand. I’m right here."

Tears welled up in Ash’s eyes, and he let out a small sob. "I don’t like this, Gary... I wanna go home..."

Gary's chest tightened, but he kept his voice steady. "I know, Ashy-boy. But we’re doing this to keep you healthy, okay? You’re one of the bravest kids I know, and I’m so proud of you."

Finally, Gary withdrew the needle and quickly covered the site with a bandage. "All done, buddy. You did it."

Ash was shaking, tears streaming down his face. "It hurt so much..."

Gary set the equipment aside and pulled off his gloves. Without hesitation, he wrapped his arms around Ash, holding him tightly. "I know, Ash. I’m so sorry it hurt. But it’s over now. You were so brave."

Ash clung to Gary, sobbing into his shoulder. "I-I don’t wanna do that again..."

Gary rubbed soothing circles on Ash’s back. "I get it, buddy. And I’ll do everything I can to make sure you don’t have to. But you were incredible today. Really."

Ash sniffled, his grip on Gary loosening slightly. "You really think so?"

Gary pulled back just enough to look Ash in the eyes. "I know so. You’re my hero, Ashy-boy."

Ash managed a small, wobbly smile. "Thanks, Gary."

Gary ruffled Ash's hair. "Anytime, kiddo. Now how about we get you some ice cream? I think you’ve earned it."

Ash's eyes lit up. "Really?"

"Really," Gary said with a grin. "But first, let’s get you cleaned up and outta this room. Deal?"

"Deal," Ash agreed, his voice still shaky but filled with relief.

As they left the sterile room behind, Gary silently vowed to always be there for his best friend—no matter what.

It was a quiet afternoon at the Pallet Town Clinic. Gary Oak adjusted the surgical mask over his face, his purple shirt peeking out from under his white coat. The sterile scent of disinfectants hung in the air, and the faint hum of medical equipment filled the room. Despite the serious atmosphere, Gary’s heart was steady and focused.

Ash sat on the examination bed, visibly nervous. His Pikachu, who was usually glued to his side, had been left outside the procedure room. Ash's fingers fidgeted with the hem of his shirt, his brown eyes wide with unease.

Gary knelt down in front of him, his voice gentle and steady. "Hey, Ashy-boy. You okay?"

Ash shook his head. "No... not really." He swallowed hard. "Do we really have to do this, Gary? Like... really?"

Gary's eyes softened as he reached out and took Ash's hand. "I know it sounds scary, buddy. But we have to. Remember when you got really sick a while back?"

Ash nodded slowly. "Yeah... my body was acting all weird."

"Right. The whole medical committee got worried because your symptoms didn’t fit the usual stuff we see. That’s why we need to check your bone marrow. It’ll give us the answers we need to make sure you're healthy."

Ash's breath hitched. "But... is it gonna hurt?"

Gary squeezed his hand. "I won't lie to you, Ash—it might feel uncomfortable. But I’m gonna be right here with you the whole time. You can hold my hand, okay?"

Ash nodded, though his lip quivered. "Okay..."

Gary smiled behind his mask, ruffling Ash's hair. "That’s my brave Ashy-boy. Now let’s start by checking your vitals, alright? Gotta make sure you’re in good shape for this."

Ash sat up straighter as Gary pulled out a thermometer. "Open up, kiddo."

Ash complied, holding the thermometer under his tongue. While they waited, Gary pressed his gloved fingers to Ash’s wrist, checking his pulse. The thermometer beeped, and Gary took it out, reading the display. "99.1—slightly warm, but nothing crazy." He then looped his stethoscope around his neck and pressed the cold metal disk against Ash’s chest. "Deep breath in... and out... Good. Again... in... and out..."

Gary nodded, satisfied. "Heart's steady. We’re good to go."

Ash's shoulders slumped. "Guess there's no getting out of this, huh?"

Gary chuckled. "Nope. But I made sure this bed is super comfy for you. C'mon, lie down for me."

Ash reluctantly lay back on the cushioned examination bed. Gary sat on the edge, guiding Ash to position himself properly. "Lift your arms a bit. That’s it." He gently lifted Ash’s shirt, exposing his small torso, then carefully tugged his jeans down just enough to access the area near his hip. "This spot will be the easiest and least painful, okay? I promise."

Ash's eyes darted nervously to the tray of instruments. "Gary... I'm really scared."

Gary took Ash’s hand again, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I know, buddy. But you’re not alone. Just keep holding my hand, and we’ll get through this together."

Ash gripped Gary’s hand tightly, his knuckles turning white. "Okay... okay..."

Gary's voice remained calm. "I'm gonna numb the area first. You'll feel a little pinch, but after that, it should be more comfortable." He injected the numbing agent and waited a few moments. "How’re you doing, Ash?"

"It tingles..." Ash whispered.

"That’s normal. You're doing great." Gary adjusted his position, his gloved hands steady. "Alright, here we go. Just keep breathing, okay?"

As Gary began the procedure, Ash's eyes widened. He could feel the pressure and the odd, unsettling sensation as the needle entered his bone. Panic surged through him. "Gary—Gary! I can feel it! I can feel it!"

Gary's heart clenched at the fear in Ash's voice. "I know, Ashy. I know. But listen to me—you're safe. I've got you. Just keep holding my hand. Squeeze as hard as you need to."

Ash's breathing grew ragged. "It hurts... it hurts..."

Gary leaned closer, his voice steady and soothing. "Focus on my voice, okay? In through your nose... out through your mouth. You're doing amazing, buddy. We're almost done. Just a little more."

Ash's grip on Gary's hand tightened even further, tears streaming down his face. "I wanna stop... please..."

Gary's throat tightened, but he kept his composure. "I know, Ashy. I wish I could stop too, but we're so close. Just a few more seconds, I swear."

Finally, Gary withdrew the needle, his hands swift and efficient as he dressed the site. "It’s over, Ash. You did it. You were so brave."

Ash let out a choked sob, still gripping Gary's sleeve. His body shook with residual fear and pain. Gary immediately pulled off his gloves and wrapped an arm around Ash, holding him close. "I've got you, Ashy-boy. You're okay now. Just breathe."

Ash buried his face in Gary’s shoulder, his tears soaking into the purple fabric. "It was so scary..."

"I know, buddy. I know." Gary rubbed soothing circles on Ash’s back. "But you did it. And because of that, we’re gonna have the information we need to keep you healthy."

Ash sniffled. "You promise?"

"I promise," Gary said firmly. "And you know I never break my promises."

Ash slowly calmed down, his breathing evening out. "Thanks, Gary..."

"Anytime, kiddo," Gary said softly. "You’re my best friend. I’ll always be here for you."

The sterile room was quiet except for the soft hum of medical equipment. Gary adjusted his mask, the white straps tugging slightly against his ears. He wore a clean lab coat over his usual purple shirt, and latex gloves stretched snugly over his hands. His brown eyes focused intently on the tray of medical instruments beside the bed.

Ash sat nervously on the edge of the examination bed, legs swinging slightly. He looked up at Gary, his face pale and lips pressed into a thin line. Pikachu wasn’t allowed in the room due to the strict sterilization rules, which only made Ash feel more uneasy.

Gary noticed the tension and knelt beside the bed, offering a reassuring smile behind his mask. "Hey, kiddo. I know this looks pretty intense, but I’m right here, okay? We’ll get through this together."

Ash swallowed hard, his voice shaky. "Do we really have to do this, Gary?"

Gary's expression softened. "Yeah, buddy. I wouldn’t put you through this if it wasn’t important. Remember when you got really sick a while back? Your symptoms were all over the place, and the whole medical committee’s been scratching their heads ever since. This bone marrow test will help us figure out what’s going on inside that tough little body of yours."

Ash fidgeted with the hem of his shirt. "But it’s gonna hurt, isn’t it?"

Gary sat on the edge of the bed and took Ash’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I won’t lie to you, Ashy—it might sting, and you might feel weird when we take the sample. But I’ll be right here the whole time. If you need to hold my hand, go for it. I’ve got you."

Ash looked at Gary, his eyes filled with uncertainty. "Promise?"

"Cross my heart," Gary said, drawing an imaginary X over his chest. "Now, let’s get you comfortable, okay?"

Gary guided Ash to lie back on the padded bed. He adjusted the pillows to support Ash’s head and shoulders. "Better?" he asked.

Ash nodded slightly. "Yeah... I guess."

"Good," Gary said. "Let’s do a quick check-up first." He pulled a thermometer from his coat pocket. "Open wide."

Ash complied, and Gary placed the thermometer under his tongue. While they waited for the reading, Gary pressed his gloved fingers to Ash’s wrist, checking his pulse.

"Heart rate’s a little fast," Gary noted. "But that’s normal when you’re nervous." He smiled behind the mask. "You’re doing great, buddy."

The thermometer beeped, and Gary checked the reading. "Temperature’s normal. That’s what I like to see."

Ash managed a small smile. "One good thing, I guess."

Gary chuckled. "Exactly. Now, I’m gonna lift your shirt a bit and lower your jeans just enough to get to the right spot, okay? Nothing scary."

Ash tensed but nodded. "Okay..."

Gary moved carefully, lifting Ash’s shirt to expose his lower back and gently tugging the waistband of his jeans down just below his hip. "There we go. Nice and easy," Gary murmured. He grabbed a disinfectant wipe and cleaned the area thoroughly. "This is just to make sure everything stays clean. You’re doing awesome, Ashy."

Ash gripped Gary’s hand tightly. "I’m really scared, Gary."

"I know, buddy," Gary said gently. "But I’m right here. Just keep holding my hand."

Gary prepared the needle and biopsy tool, his movements precise and deliberate. "Alright, Ash. You’re gonna feel a little pressure, but I’ll be as quick as I can. Deep breath in... and out."

Ash squeezed his eyes shut as Gary inserted the needle. The initial sting made him flinch, but it was the strange, deep sensation of the marrow being drawn that made his heart race.

"I... I can feel it!" Ash gasped, his voice trembling. "Gary, I can feel it!"

Gary’s heart clenched at the panic in Ash’s voice. "I know, Ashy. I know. Breathe with me, okay? In through your nose... out through your mouth. That’s it. Keep holding my hand."

Ash’s breathing was ragged, but he tried to follow Gary’s instructions. "It feels so weird... I don’t like it, Gary!"

Gary’s voice remained calm and steady. "You’re almost there, kiddo. Just a few more seconds. You’re being so brave."

Ash’s grip on Gary’s hand tightened, his knuckles turning white. Tears welled up in his eyes, and when the procedure finally ended, he let out a shaky sob. "It hurt... it really hurt..."

Gary quickly set the tools aside and leaned over Ash, wrapping an arm around his trembling shoulders. "I’m so sorry, Ashy. You did amazing, though. I’m so proud of you."

Ash buried his face against Gary’s shoulder, his body shaking with quiet cries. "I thought... I thought I was gonna pass out..."

"But you didn’t," Gary said softly, rubbing Ash’s back. "You hung in there like a champ. It’s over now, and you never have to do that again if I can help it."

Ash sniffled, his voice muffled. "Promise?"

"Promise," Gary said firmly. "And hey, you know what this means?"

Ash lifted his tear-streaked face. "What?"

"It means I owe you the biggest ice cream sundae ever," Gary grinned. "With extra whipped cream and sprinkles."

Ash’s lips quirked into a small, wobbly smile. "Really?"

"Really," Gary said, ruffling Ash’s hair. "But only if you promise me one thing."

Ash wiped his eyes. "What?"

"No more scaring the medical committee, okay?"

Ash laughed weakly. "I’ll try."

"Good enough for me," Gary said, helping Ash sit up. "C’mon, Ashy-boy. Let’s go get that ice cream."

The clinic room was unusually quiet, filled only with the soft hum of medical equipment. The overhead lights were dimmer than usual, and Gary had gone to great lengths to make the bed as comfortable as possible, covering it with extra padding and soft sheets.

Gary stood at the edge of the bed, adjusting the mask over his face. His purple shirt was visible beneath his white coat, but today he also wore gloves and a protective cap. The sterile atmosphere made the room feel different, more serious.

Ash sat nervously on the bed, his legs swinging slightly as he clutched Pikachu tightly against his chest. Pikachu, sensing his trainer's anxiety, offered a comforting "Pika," though Ash barely responded.

Gary noticed the tension and knelt beside his best friend. "Hey, Ashy-boy," he said softly, his voice slightly muffled by the mask. "You okay?"

Ash's shoulders tensed. "Do we really have to do this, Gary? I feel fine now. I mean, I haven't been sick in weeks!"

Gary's eyes softened. "I know, buddy. But remember how weird your symptoms were last time? The whole medical team was scratching their heads. They want to make sure there’s nothing going on inside that we missed."

Ash looked down, biting his lip. "But... this sounds really bad. Bone marrow stuff? Isn’t that, like... serious?"

Gary took Ash's hand, squeezing it gently. "It sounds scary, but it’s just a precaution. And I promise I’ll be with you the whole time. You can hold my hand, okay?"

Ash hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Okay... but only 'cause it's you."

Gary grinned beneath his mask. "That’s my Ashy-boy." He patted the bed. "Let’s get you lying down. We’re gonna check a few things first before we start."

Ash reluctantly shifted onto the bed, his heart racing. Gary sat on the edge, guiding Ash to lie back. "Good. Now lift your arms for me." He gently lifted Ash's shirt, exposing his chest and abdomen. "Let me just get a quick temperature check." He placed the thermometer in Ash's mouth and waited for it to beep.

When it did, Gary frowned slightly. "A little higher than I’d like, but nothing crazy. Let’s check your heart next."

Gary pulled out his stethoscope and pressed it to Ash's chest. "Deep breath in... and out. Good. One more time."

Ash obeyed, though his breaths were shaky. Gary’s brows furrowed slightly as he listened. "A little fast, but that’s probably just nerves. You’re doing great, kiddo."

Ash managed a weak smile. "Thanks... I guess."

Gary set the stethoscope aside and gently pulled Ash's jeans down just enough to expose his hip. "Alright, Ash. This is the best spot for the procedure. It’s got good access to your bone marrow, and it'll be less painful here than anywhere else."

Ash’s eyes widened. "Less painful? So it’s still gonna hurt?"

Gary sighed, his voice gentle. "A little, yeah. But I’m gonna numb the area first, and I’ll be right here the whole time. You can squeeze my hand if you need to, okay?"

Ash swallowed hard, his fingers trembling. "Okay..."

Gary nodded, snapping on a fresh pair of gloves. "Good. I’m proud of you, Ash. You’re being really brave." He gently cleaned the area with a disinfectant wipe, the cool sensation making Ash shiver.

"Deep breaths, Ashy-boy," Gary coached. "In... and out. That’s it. Just keep breathing like that."

Ash focused on Gary’s voice, trying to block out his fear. When Gary inserted the needle to numb the area, Ash flinched but didn’t cry out. "You’re doing great, buddy," Gary reassured him. "Almost done with this part."

After a few moments, Gary set the needle aside. "Okay, the area’s numb now. You ready?"

Ash’s voice was barely a whisper. "Not really..."

Gary squeezed his hand. "That’s okay. Just keep holding on to me. We’ll get through this together."

As Gary carefully inserted the bone marrow extraction needle, Ash tensed, his breath hitching. "Ow... I can feel it!"

Gary's heart ached at the panic in his friend’s voice. "I know, buddy. I know. Just hold my hand, okay? Focus on me."

Ash's grip on Gary's hand tightened, his knuckles turning white. "It feels weird... like you're pulling something out..."

Gary's voice remained calm and steady. "I know it feels strange, but that’s just the marrow being drawn out. You're doing amazing, Ash. Almost there."

Ash whimpered, tears welling in his eyes. "Gary... it hurts..."

Gary's heart broke at the sight of his best friend in pain. He leaned closer, his voice soft and reassuring. "I’m here, Ash. I’ve got you. Just a few more seconds, okay? You’re the bravest kid I know."

Ash clung to Gary's hand, tears streaming down his face. "It really hurts..."

Gary finished the extraction as quickly and carefully as possible, then immediately set the tools aside. He wrapped an arm around Ash, pulling him into a comforting hug. "It’s over, buddy. You did it. I’m so proud of you."

Ash buried his face in Gary’s shoulder, his body shaking with sobs. "That was awful..."

"I know, Ashy-boy. I’m so sorry you had to go through that." Gary held him tightly, rubbing soothing circles on his back. "But you did it. And now we’ll have the information we need to keep you healthy."

Ash sniffled, his voice muffled. "Promise I won't have to do that again?"

Gary hesitated, then said honestly, "I’ll do everything I can to make sure you don’t. And if you ever do, I’ll be right here with you. Always."

Ash nodded against Gary's shoulder, his breathing gradually calming. "Thanks, Gary..."

"Anytime, kiddo," Gary whispered. "Now let’s get you some ice cream. You’ve more than earned it."