Maren
My husband booked the appointment so we could fly to his parents’ anniversary with a clean bill of health.
I went because Drew asked. I stayed because the man who walked in was not Dr. Patel.
“Mrs. Cole.” He shut the door. White coat. Grey at the temples. Hands that looked like they had done this a thousand times. “I’m Dr. Brennan. I’m covering this month. Patel’s on leave. I have your file.”
He was almost twice my age.
I got wet sitting on the paper in a gown that wouldn’t close.
Drew and I had not had s*x in four months. He worked late. He kissed my forehead. He said we were fine. I had started touching myself in the shower and biting a towel so I would not say anyone’s name. I had not expected the name to arrive in a coat with my chart.
“Pap, breast exam, general pelvic,” h
