While Lucinda escorted Destinee to kindergarten, Nathan took Colby to the lab for his infusion.
In the ward, a lab researcher entered the room, holding a medical tray with an infusion bottle and syringe.
Colby had been on a drip almost every day, utilizing a peripheral venous catheter.
The peripheral venous catheterâs needle must be changed every three days to prevent infection and ensure proper placement within the blood vessel.
Today was the designated day to switch out the needle.
Colby noticed the fresh needle on the tray from afar and let out a soft sigh.
âIâm already five years old.
When will I be done with these infusions? The back of my hand is turning blue.
I worry it might need to be injected elsewhere next.
â
Nathan, feeling empathetic, quietly peeled a peach for him.
The researcher reassured gently, âDonât worry, Colby.
Itâs painless.
â
âIâm quite accustomed to it,â Colby declared, lifting his eyebrows with a hint of pride as he bravely offered his arm.
Since the needle had been embedded for a few days, its removal was bound to be painful.
.
.
Library
The researcher quickly extracted the needle.
Colby frowned slightly and looked out the window with a hint of disdain.
He maintained his composure, starkly contrasting with other children who cried post-injection.
Noticing Nathan peeling a peach, Colby tried to send him away.
âDaddy, shouldnât you be busy at work? Isnât there a lot to do at the office? Donât worry about me.
â
He thought it best for Nathan to leave.
Nathan sensed his discontent.
âDo you find it bothersome having me here?â
Colbyâs face lit up with a smile.
âHow could I? Iâm really happy when Daddy takes care of me.
â
Nathan peeled the peach deftly and said slowly, âI took the day off.
Iâm here to keep you company and Iâm not going anywhere.
â
Colby was at a loss for words.
Despite smiling, he felt unhappy about the situation.
âThen perhaps you could spend some time with Destinee.
You havenât picked her up from her new kindergarten yet, right? Donât worry about me.
Iâm used to these infusions on my own.
I wonât feel lonely.
â
Nathan kept peeling without looking up, his thoughts unreadable.
After a while, he finished peeling the peach.
He sliced a small piece and handed it to Colby.