"Desperate Escape"

Ashley curled her legs up to her chest, the cold metal of the bed frame digging into her skin as she wrapped her arms around her knees. The sterile white walls of her lockdown room seemed to close in around her, making her feel trapped and suffocated. Tears began to fall, streaming down her face as she felt vulnerable and alone, without her mom to comfort her. She missed her mom, Nicole, desperately. The thought of being in this strange, isolating place without her mom's loving support was unbearable. Ashley's mind began to wander, and she thought of her mom's warm smile, her gentle touch, and her reassuring words. She longed to be with her mom, to feel safe and protected. "Please," Ashley begged, her voice cracking with desperation. "I want to go home. I want to be with my mom." As she spoke, panic began to set in. Her heart racing, her breathing quickening, Ashley felt like she was losing control. She didn't want medication or therapy; she just wanted to go home. The doctor's words about ECT therapy echoed in her mind, and she felt a surge of fear and anger. "I don't want medication or that stupid therapy!" Ashley yelled, her voice hoarse from disuse. She shot up from the bed, her legs trembling beneath her. In a burst of adrenaline, she ran for the door, determined to escape. But the nurses were too quick. They grabbed her, holding her back as she kicked and fought. Ashley struggled against their grip, but they were too strong. She felt a prick of pain in her arm, and suddenly, her body began to feel heavy and numb. The last thing Ashley remembered was the sound of her own screams, muffled and distant, as the sedative took hold. When she came to, she was lying back in her bed, her wrists and ankles restrained with soft leather straps. Ashley's eyes scanned the room, her gaze wild and unfocused. The nurses stood beside her, their faces calm and concerned. Nurse Thompson spoke softly, "Ashley, we had to sedate you to keep you safe. You need to calm down and follow the treatment plan." But Ashley was beyond reason. She was trapped, alone, and scared. The restraints dug into her skin, a physical reminder of her powerlessness. As she lay there, Ashley felt a wave of despair wash over her, threatening to consume her. She knew she had to find a way to escape, to take back control of her life. But for now, she was at the mercy of the people who claimed to want to help her.