Dawn swallowed hard, her hands trembling slightly in Kenny’s grip. "Will it really hurt that much?" she asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Kenny’s expression softened, his usual teasing demeanor replaced with genuine care. "It might feel uncomfortable for a moment, but I promise I’ll be gentle, Dee Dee. And I’ll stop if it’s too much for you. Okay?"

Dawn bit her lip, staring at her hands in his. She wanted to trust him—she really did—but the thought of pain made her stomach churn.

"Kenny…" she started, her voice quivering.

He gently squeezed her hands. "Hey, I’m right here. I won’t let anything bad happen, alright? You’ve got this."

After a long pause, Dawn nodded hesitantly. "Okay… but only because it’s you."

Kenny gave her a small, encouraging smile. "That’s my girl. Now, let’s get this over with."

He released her hands and reached for the small tray he’d brought in. Dawn watched nervously as he prepared the tools, the metallic gleam making her heart race.

"Alright," Kenny said, turning back to her. "I’m going to need you to open your mouth, Dee Dee. Just a little so I can take a closer look."

Dawn hesitated, clutching the blanket tightly. "What if I mess it up? What if I move, and—"

"Then I’ll adjust," Kenny interrupted gently. "It’s not your job to be perfect, Dawn. Just try your best."

Taking a deep breath, Dawn opened her mouth slightly, her eyes squeezed shut.

"Good," Kenny murmured, leaning closer. He carefully tilted her head to the side for a better view. "Just stay still, okay? You’re doing great."

Dawn felt the cool metal of the dental tool touch her tooth, and she instinctively flinched.

"Whoa, it’s okay," Kenny said quickly, pulling back. "Deep breath, Dee Dee. In through your nose, out through your mouth."

She did as he said, her breathing shaky but steadying. "Sorry," she mumbled.

"Don’t be," Kenny replied with a reassuring smile. "Let’s try again."

This time, Kenny worked with painstaking care, his movements slow and deliberate. Dawn winced as he applied slight pressure to her crooked tooth, but she bit back a whimper, clutching the edge of the blanket for support.

"You’re doing amazing," Kenny said, his voice steady and calming. "Almost there."

A sharp jolt of pain shot through Dawn’s jaw, and she let out a muffled cry.

"Okay, okay!" Kenny stopped immediately, setting the tool aside. "That’s enough for now."

Dawn’s eyes watered, and she clutched her face, breathing heavily. "It hurts…"

"I know," Kenny said softly, sitting beside her. He gently placed a hand on her back, rubbing soothing circles. "But you were so brave, Dee Dee. I’m really proud of you."

She sniffled, leaning against him. "I hate this…"

"I know you do," Kenny said with a small chuckle. "But look—your tooth’s already a little straighter. One more small adjustment, and we’ll be done."

Dawn groaned. "One more?"

"Just one," Kenny promised. "And after that, we’ll get some ice cream. My treat."

Her lips twitched into a faint smile. "You’re bribing me with ice cream?"

"Absolutely," Kenny said with a grin. "Is it working?"

Dawn sighed but nodded. "Fine. But if it hurts, I’m holding you responsible."

"Deal," Kenny said, picking up the tool again. "Ready?"

She closed her eyes and gave a tiny nod. "Ready."

With the same care as before, Kenny made the final adjustment, his hands steady despite her slight trembling. The moment he finished, Dawn let out a relieved sigh, slumping against the pillows.

"All done," Kenny said, setting the tool down with a satisfied smile. "See? You survived."

Dawn gave him a tired glare. "Barely."

Kenny laughed, ruffling her hair. "You did great, Dee Dee. Now, let’s go get that ice cream."

Dawn smiled despite herself, following him out of the room. For all her complaining, she couldn’t deny—Kenny always knew how to take care of her.