Read the following paragraph and answer the question. Give ONLY the answer, no other words or explanation.

For example:

Answer: <most likely answer, as short as possible>.

Paragraph: He lifted the paddle and brought it down quickly again just below the last area the paddle landed . He felt it as Sam went limp over his lap and openly sobbed . John raised the paddle and brought it down two more times before flinging it across the room . He rubbed his palm on Sam 's back as his youngest tried to pull himself together . " Shh , it 's okay . , I ' ve got ya .

Question: Why is John reaching out to Sam ?
To console him .
To comfort Sam.