Intro. Giulia’s stomach churned as she entered the busy women’s clinic. The antiseptic smell and constant calling of names made her dread this even more. She hated these visits—the cold exposure, the thin gowns, the loss of control.
“Giulia Rossi?” the nurse called.
She followed on shaky legs to the exam room. The gynecological chair waited, stirrups shining under bright lights. “Undress from the waist down and take a seat,” the nurse said gently. “The doctor will be in soon.”
Giulia stripped off her jeans and underwear, folded them, then climbed up. The paper sheet crackled loudly. The nurse placed a thin towel over her lap. “Just for modesty,” she offered with a small smile.
Giulia fixed her eyes on the ceiling tiles, counting dots, willing her breathing to slow. Modesty covered, but vulnerability already raw.