**Chapter 17: New Beginnings**

The nurse walked back into the room, a stack of papers in her hand. "Alright, Ashley, it's time to get started on the discharge process," she said with a warm smile. Ashley's eyes widened slightly as she took the papers from the nurse, her mind racing with thoughts of what was to come. As she began to scan the papers, Ashley's expression turned nervous. She felt a lump form in her throat as she thought about leaving the hospital with Kody, all alone. She looked up at Sarah, who was still sitting beside her, and then back at the nurse. "What if I can't do it alone?" Ashley asked, her voice barely above a whisper. The nurse's expression turned sympathetic, and she sat down beside Ashley. "You're not alone, Ashley," she said gently. "You have Sarah here, and I'm sure she'll be more than happy to help you out in any way she can. Plus, we have a whole team of social workers and lactation consultants who can provide you with support and guidance once you're home." Ashley's eyes welled up with tears as she thought about all the unknowns. What if she couldn't breastfeed? What if Kody cried all night and she didn't know how to soothe him? What if she made mistakes and hurt him somehow? The nurse seemed to sense Ashley's fears, and she reached out to put a reassuring hand on her arm. "Ashley, you're going to be an amazing mom," she said. "You've already shown that you're capable and loving. Just take things one step at a time, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it." Sarah squeezed Ashley's hand, offering silent support. Ashley took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. She looked down at Kody, who was still sleeping peacefully in her arms. "I just don't want to mess it up," Ashley said, her voice cracking with emotion. The nurse smiled. "You won't," she said. "You'll make mistakes, sure, but that's all part of the learning process. And you'll have plenty of people to help you along the way. You're not alone, Ashley." Ashley nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. She was ready to do this. She was ready to be a mom.