"Desperation's Darkest Hour"

Ashley carefully inserted the tube feeding equipment into her mother's nose, trying to make the process as smooth as possible. Nicole's eyes fluttered open, and she weakly grasped Ashley's hand. "I'm sorry, baby," Nicole whispered, her voice barely audible. Ashley smiled, trying to reassure her. "You don't have to apologize, Mom. I'm here for you." The doctor had explained that Nicole's condition had deteriorated to the point where she could no longer eat or drink. The pain medication made her drowsy, but Ashley knew she had to keep her comfortable. The prognosis was grim – Nicole had only months left to live. Ashley finished setting up the tube feed and adjusted the medication schedule. She kissed her mother's forehead, trying to hold back tears. As she left the room, Ender waited patiently, his eyes curious. "Okay, buddy, let's go get some food," Ashley said, forcing a smile. The grocery store was a short walk from their apartment, and Ashley had to go. She had no cash left, and the cupboards were bare. She knew what she had to do. She couldn't bear the thought of Ender going hungry. As they walked through the aisles, Ashley picked up a few essentials – bread, milk, and some fruit. She carefully placed them in the shopping cart, trying not to draw attention to herself. But as she reached for a few more items, her hand slipped, and a carton of eggs and a loaf of bread found their way into her bag. Ashley prayed that no one had seen her. She quickened her pace, trying to make it to the checkout before anyone noticed. Ender chattered excitedly, unaware of the tension building inside his mother. As they approached the exit, the security machines started to buzz. A guard rushed towards them, his face stern. Ashley tried to run, but her legs felt like lead. The guard grabbed her arm, spinning her around. Ender's eyes widened in fear. "Mommy, Mommy!" he cried, tugging on Ashley's hand. The guard pinned Ashley against the wall, his grip tight. Ashley felt a wave of panic wash over her. She was going to be caught. She was going to be arrested. Ender's cries grew louder, and Ashley's heart shattered into a million pieces. She was trapped, and she didn't know how to escape. The guard's face was inches from hers, his eyes cold and unforgiving. "Ma'am, you're going to have to come with me," he said, his voice devoid of empathy. Ashley's world came crashing down around her. She was going to lose everything – her freedom, her dignity, and possibly even her son. The desperation that had driven her to steal had finally caught up with her, and now she faced the consequences.