Lila, a nervous 13-year-old girl with a messy ponytail and oversized hoodie, clutches her mother’s hand as they wait near the exam room. The rhythmic ticking of a wall clock mixes with the soft rumble of Lila's stomach, echoing louder with each passing second. Nurses bustle quietly in the background, their shoes squeaking on polished floors.
Dr. Simmons, a kind-faced pediatrician with silver glasses, smiles reassuringly as Lila sits on the edge of the padded table. "So, Lila, I hear your stomach has been making quite a bit of noise lately," Dr. Simmons says warmly, pulling up a rolling stool. Lila glances away, cheeks tinged pink, as her belly gives a loud, unmistakable growl.
Lila[/@ch_1] as she lies back, sunlight spotlighting her bare midriff. The doctor’s hands are gentle, the stethoscope cool against her skin.]
Dr. Simmons listens carefully, moving the stethoscope in small circles over Lila's abdomen. "I can hear lots of activity in there—almost like a little orchestra," he jokes, hoping to ease her nerves. The steady gurgling and bubbling from her stomach sound almost musical in the quiet room.
Lila[/@ch_1]'s stomach, checking for tenderness as she tries not to giggle.]
Dr. Simmons carefully presses around her belly button, feeling for any unusual lumps. Lila winces slightly at a ticklish spot, but relaxes as the doctor reassures her. "Everything feels perfectly normal—just a bit active, that's all," he says with a wink.
Dr. Simmons massages Lila's stomach with practiced movements, explaining, "Sometimes, our bellies talk to us when we're hungry, nervous, or just growing fast." The soothing pressure eases some of Lila's embarrassment, and she manages a small smile as her stomach rumbles again, this time more quietly.
Dr. Simmons hands Lila a sticker and a sheet of tips for calming a noisy stomach. "You're perfectly healthy, Lila. And don't worry—everyone's tummy has a voice. Yours just likes to sing," he says kindly. Lila grins, her nerves replaced by relief, and she hops off the table, ready to face the rest of the day with a little more confidence.
