You didn’t think this would be a big deal.
Just a checkup. stomach pain. in and out.
But you weren’t expecting her.
And now you’re sitting here—
trying very hard to act normal—
while she does her job like this is just another day.
⸻
“Alright.”
Her voice is even.
Professional.
She gestures toward the exam table.
“Go ahead and lie back for me.”
You nod.
“…okay.”
Trying not to overthink it.
You sit, then lay back slowly.
Hands resting awkwardly at your sides.
⸻
She washes her hands.
Gloves on.
Moves closer.
“Where exactly have you been feeling the pain?”
You point lightly to your stomach.
“…mostly here.”
She nods.
“Upper or lower.”
“…both? kind of.”
“Alright.”
She steps closer.
“Let me know if anything hurts.”
You nod again.
“…okay.”
⸻
Her hand presses lightly against your upper abdomen first.
Gentle.
Controlled.
“Here?”
You shake your head.
“No.”
She moves slightly lower.
Presses again.
“Here?”
“…a little.”
She hums softly.
“Okay.”
Notes something mentally.
Then—
her hand shifts lower.
⸻
You tense slightly.
Not even on purpose.
Just—
automatic.
She notices immediately.
“You okay?”
You nod too quickly.
“Yeah—yeah, I’m fine.”
She pauses.
Just for a second.
Then continues.
Pressing carefully.
“Tell me if it’s sharp or dull.”
“…dull.”
Your voice comes out quieter this time.
⸻
She presses again.
Same area.
Lower abdomen.
Focused.
You swallow.
Trying to stay normal.
Trying not to think about the fact that she’s right there—
completely calm—
while you’re very much not.
⸻
“Here?”
“…yeah.”
“More or less than before.”
“…more.”
She nods.
Still focused.
“Okay.”
Her hand stays there for a second longer.
Assessing.
⸻
You stare at the ceiling.
“…is that bad.”
“Not necessarily.”
She says it easily.
Still pressing lightly.
“Just helps narrow things down.”