Nothing

Jenn shifted on the edge of the exam table, the paper gown hanging loosely over her shoulders. After a few moments of indecision, she made a choice, No, there’s no reason to undress unless the doctor requires it. With that thought, she smoothed the gown over her lap and leaned back, trying to settle into the small bit of comfort she could find in the sterile room.

The hum of the fluorescent lights and the distant murmur of voices outside did little to calm her nerves. She crossed her arms, reminding herself that she was in control, Just wait, the doctor will come, no surprises.

A knock on the door broke her train of thought.

“Jenn?” a cheerful voice called.

“Yes, that’s me,” she replied, straightening slightly.

The door opened, and in walked a young man in a crisp medical assistant uniform. Jenn blinked. Her eyes widened, her breath catching just slightly.

Connor Hawks.

Her daughter’s friend. Samantha had mentioned him casually before, a polite, athletic 19-year-old who sometimes hung out at their house. But she had never expected to see him here, in a professional medical setting, helping with her appointment.

“Hi, Jenn,” Connor said, smiling warmly but professionally. “I’ll be assisting the doctor today, just need to take some basic info and prep the room.”

“Oh, hi, Connor. I didn’t know you worked here.” Jenn’s mind scrambled, This is… unexpected. She **** herself to smile.

He shrugged, still moving efficiently around the room, arranging supplies. “Yeah, started recently. Figured I’d help out while I’m in training. Don’t worry, I’ll make it quick and easy.”

Jenn nodded, trying to keep her composure. Her heartbeat was a little faster than usual. Seeing someone she knew in this context, so close, so professional, made her feel oddly exposed, even though she hadn’t undressed.

Connor glanced at her, offering a reassuring smile. “Just gonna take a few details and wait for the doctor. Let me know if you need anything in the meantime.”

Jenn nodded again, trying to focus on the small, ordinary actions of the room, the hum of the lights, the sterile scent, the paper on the exam table. But underneath, a knot of surprise and unease had settled in her stomach.