"Confronting the Truth"

Erica cried, but Ashley had none of it. "Bullshit, no," Ashley said, her voice rising in anger as the social worker suggested it was time for her to leave. The social worker spoke calmly, "Let's pack your bags, Ashley. I think it's best if we take a break and-" "No," Ashley spat, cutting her off. The social worker's gentle expression didn't falter, but Ashley could see a hint of firmness in her eyes. The social worker pulled Ashley aside to talk, her voice low and soothing. "Erica, why don't you take a break and get a coffee while I speak with Ashley?" she suggested, her eyes never leaving Ashley's face. Erica nodded, still sniffling, and quickly exited the room, leaving Ashley alone with the social worker. The woman turned back to Ashley, her expression soft but firm. "Ashley, I know you're upset, but we need to talk about what's going on here," she said, her voice gentle but authoritative. Ashley crossed her arms, her eyes flashing with anger. "There's nothing to talk about," she said, her voice cold. The social worker sighed, her eyes never leaving Ashley's face. "Ashley, I've been working with your sister for a while now, and I have to say, I'm concerned about you. Your behavior is becoming increasingly erratic, and I'm worried about your well-being." Ashley snorted, rolling her eyes. "You think I'm some kind of crazy person, don't you?" she sneered. The social worker's expression didn't change, but Ashley could see a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Ashley, I'm here to help you, not to judge you. But I do need to consider your safety and well-being, as well as that of your sister." Ashley took a step back, her eyes blazing with anger. "You can't make me go anywhere," she said, her voice rising. "I'm not going to leave." The social worker's voice remained calm, but firm. "Ashley, I'm afraid it's not a question of choice. Your sister is at her wit's end, and I'm worried that if we don't intervene, things could get out of hand." Ashley felt a surge of fear mixed with anger, but she refused to back down. She was determined to fight for her right to stay with her sister, no matter what.