"A Night of Despair"

Ashley trudged through the streets, her feet carrying her on autopilot as her mind reeled with the hurt and anger that Alex's words had caused. She didn't notice the time or the distance she traveled, she just kept walking, trying to escape the pain that threatened to consume her. Finally, she arrived at her apartment building, and as she approached her door, she noticed a piece of paper taped to it. Her heart sank as she read the words: "NOTICE: You have 30 days to vacate the premises." Ashley felt like she had been punched in the gut. She had forgotten that the house was in Ryan's name, and now that he was gone, she had no claim to the property. As the reality of her situation hit her, Ashley's eyes welled up with tears. She was pregnant, and she was now homeless. She sat down on the ground outside her apartment, feeling like her world had come crashing down around her. The cool night air did little to comfort her as she wrapped her arms around her knees and let out a sob. She cried for Ryan, for the life they had planned to build together, for the future they would never have. She cried for herself, for the uncertainty and fear that lay ahead. As she looked up at the sky, Ashley felt a sense of desperation wash over her. "Help me, Ryan," she prayed, her voice barely above a whisper. "Please, help me through this." Her phone began to ring, and she saw that it was her sister calling. But Ashley didn't have the strength to talk to her right now. She ignored the calls, letting them go to voicemail as she continued to cry and mourn. The night wore on, and Ashley remained seated outside her apartment, feeling lost and alone. She had never felt so vulnerable in her life, and she didn't know how she was going to get through the next 30 days, let alone the rest of her pregnancy. As the stars twinkled above her, Ashley felt like she was at rock bottom. She had no home, no support system, and no idea how she was going to provide for herself and her unborn child. All she could do was sit there, surrounded by the darkness, and cry for the life she had lost.