The doctor's office smelled faintly of disinfectant and lemon. Too clean, too sharp, like it might slice through my nerves.
The paper on the exam table crinkled beneath me, loud in the quiet of the doctor's office. I clutched the little cup from the urine test like it was a verdict in my hands, waiting for the doctor to read it out as if the two lines on the test at home hadn't already screamed the truth at me weeks ago.
The doctor, a kind-faced woman with intelligent eyes, entered the room with a soft smile. She took my chart from the nurse and glanced at it. "So, you've had a positive home pregnancy test?"
"Yes," I managed, my voice barely a whisper.
She nodded, her gaze steady. "And you're here for confirmation and to discuss next steps?"
I nodded, my throat tight. Aria gave my hand a reassuring squeeze.
"Alright," the doctor said, pulling up a rolling stool. "Let's go over everything. First, tell me about your last menstrual period."
