Frank struggled to suppress a groan of agony as the antiseptic made contact with his exposed wound. The piercing sensation sent waves of pain coursing through his nerve endings, yet he remained resolute, refusing to exhibit any outward signs of discomfort.

"Could ya maybe be a tad gentler?" he managed to utter through clenched teeth, his head slightly turned away to avoid facing the sight of the deep gash etched across his abdomen.