stirrups have always been so hot to me, especially the ones with braces for your knees. nothing more vulnerable than being held wide open. the overhead lamp illuminating you, warm on your skin. maybe the doctor wants to measure your flexibility too, or they’re just very particular. so they align your legs for you, pulling your knees up and apart one at a time. gloved hands feeling the stretch of your inner thigh as your legs are spread into place. adjusting the angle of the stirrups after, slowly pulling you wider and wider. hospital gown gently pushed to your stomach, doing nothing to cover you. their hands are gentle on your skin. they take their time to look at you. when they move away for a moment to grab the next tool, you’re left with your legs open, just waiting to be touched.