Valentine’s Day this year was extra memorable when I got to see you. 

Over the phone, you weren’t sure about planning for February 14. “Oh, that’s Valentine’s Day,” you said, not wanting to put too much pressure on our get-together. “We can try a different date.”

It was nice of you to be mindful, but it didn’t bother me. I told you, “That’s perfect. I’ll see you then.” 

The morning of the fourteenth came. Feeling a little nervous, I cleaned up and made myself look nice for you. My thoughts raced as I drove out to meet. 

As I came inside, my stomach fluttered when we saw each other. I gave you the card I brought for you. You thanked me, then ushered me to your room.

I could tell you had prepared for my arrival—the bed was freshly made, with a nice pillow and clean white sheets. It was so sweet how you wanted to make me feel comfortable.

You surprised me with another thoughtful gesture. “Put this on,” you said, handing me a sweet nothing of an outfit that would leave little to the imagination. “I’ll give you some privacy and come back while you’re ready.” You gave me a reassuring smile, then left me alone.

I undressed and put it on, glancing at myself in the mirror. It didn’t cover much, but it’s not like it’d stay on for long, anyway.

I laid down on top of the sheet to wait for you. The anticipation grew.

Finally, you knocked. “Come in!” I said, trying to sound as calm as possible.

I felt a little exposed as you entered, but I was ready. You made small talk to help me relax, then asked a few questions. “You’re not on your period, are you?” I assured you it was fine.

As you got yourself ready, I tried not to peek at the size of your tool. But you caught me looking. 

“Wait,” you said gently, “is this your first time?”

It was awkward, but I wanted to be honest with you. “Yes,” I admitted. “It’s my first pap smear.”

“Oh, okay! Well, just get your feet situated in the stirrups here. Now lift up your gown. This is called a speculum, it might be a little cold. Now, I’m just gonna—”

“Oof,” I said. 

Thankfully, it was over quickly. I sat up on the crinkly paper sheet as you stored the sample wand. You handed back my insurance card, then gave a formal-sounding goodbye and moved toward the exit. 

“Thanks, Dr. Lee,” I said, then added, “You’re not even gonna buy me flowers after that?”
You chuckled politely and closed the door behind you.

I dressed again and checked my phone. My husband had texted me. “How’d it go? ;)”

“Weird,” I responded as I trudged back through the waiting room. “Happy Valentine’s Day to me.”

I headed home to spend the rest of the day with the one I love. 

Photo by Flickr user Angela Mabray (CC BY-NC 2.0)

Laura Sheppard Song

Laura graduated from Calvin in 2015 with a degree in art and writing. She lives in Toronto, Ontario, with her husband Josh and dog Rainy. She works as an IT support analyst and enjoys painting, rock climbing, and exploring the city.