**A Glimpse of Understanding**

The doctor's expression softened as she looked at Ashley and Karen, her eyes filled with compassion. "I see," she said gently. "Karen, can you tell me a bit more about Ashley's situation? What brings her here today?" Karen took a deep breath, her eyes never leaving Ashley's face. "Ashley has recently come from a... complicated past," she began, her voice measured. "She's been through a lot, and we're still trying to help her heal. There was... abuse involved, and we're not sure what kind of impact it's had on her physically or emotionally." The doctor's expression turned somber, and she nodded understandingly. "I see," she said again. "That explains a lot. The weight loss, the bruising, the scars... it's clear that she's been through a traumatic experience." Ashley felt a lump form in her throat as she looked down at her hands, her eyes welling up with tears. She could feel Karen's eyes on her, filled with love and concern. The doctor turned to Ashley and said, "Ashley, I want you to know that you're safe here. We're going to do everything we can to help you heal and get the care you need. But I need you to know that I'm not here to judge you or criticize you. I'm here to help you." Ashley looked up at the doctor, her eyes searching for reassurance. She saw kindness and compassion there, and it gave her the courage to speak. "I... I'm sorry," Ashley stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm so sorry." Karen squeezed her hand gently. "Ashley, don't apologize," she said firmly. "You didn't do anything wrong. You were a victim, and now you're getting help. That's all that matters." The doctor nodded in agreement. "Ashley, we're going to get you the help you need. We'll work with a therapist, and I'll prescribe some medication to help with your weight and any other health issues you're facing. And Karen, we'll also provide you with resources to help you support Ashley through this process." As the doctor finished speaking, Ashley felt a weight lift off her shoulders. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she was in a safe place, surrounded by people who cared about her. She looked up at Karen, and saw tears shining in her eyes. Karen pulled Ashley into a tight hug. "We're going to get through this, Ashley," she whispered. "I promise. We're going to heal, and we're going to be okay." As they hugged, Ashley felt a sense of hope that she hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, she was going to be okay after all.