A Desperate Struggle

Ashley dozed off at the bottom of Ender's bed, exhausted from the day's events. She had been running on empty for what felt like an eternity, and the soft hum of Ender's gentle breathing had lulled her into a fitful sleep. But her rest was short-lived. A loud thud coming from her mother's room jolted her awake. She sprang into action, her heart racing with concern. She rushed into her mother's room to find Nicole lying on the floor, her medication scattered around her. Ashley's worst fears were confirmed as she saw her mother's pale face and the look of distress in her eyes. "Mom, oh Mom, I'm so sorry," Ashley exclaimed, as she rushed to her side. Nicole weakly tried to speak, but Ashley could see the effort it took her. "Ash...Ashley...I...I was trying to get your attention," Nicole stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. Ashley felt a wave of guilt wash over her. She had been so exhausted that she hadn't even noticed her mother's struggles. She quickly helped Nicole back into bed and made sure she was comfortable, administering her medication and making sure she was safe. The rest of the night was a blur for Ashley. She couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt and worry that had settled in her chest. She spent the night awake, checking on her mother and Ender every so often, making sure they were both okay. The next morning, Ashley prepared a simple breakfast for her mother and Ender, trying to muster up some energy. She helped her mother with her morning routine, making sure she was clean and comfortable. As she got Ender ready for daycare, Ashley couldn't help but feel a sense of dread wash over her. She knew she was going to be late for work, and Mr. Jenkins was not going to be happy. At daycare, Ashley kissed Ender goodbye, feeling a pang of sadness. She knew she had to get to work, but she was dreading the encounter with her boss. As she arrived at the coffee shop, she could see Mr. Jenkins standing behind the counter, his arms crossed and a scowl on his face. "You're late, Ashley," he growled, his voice dripping with malice. "You're always late. What's wrong with you?" Ashley took a deep breath and tried to explain, but Mr. Jenkins wasn't having it. He ushered her into his office, slamming the door behind her. "You're a disappointment, Ashley," he sneered, his eyes roving over her body. "You're not even capable of doing your job properly. And to make matters worse, you're not even attractive enough to make up for it." Ashley felt a wave of humiliation wash over her, but she tried to keep her cool. She knew she couldn't let Mr. Jenkins get to her, not today. But as he continued to yell at her and make snide comments, Ashley couldn't help but feel like she was at her breaking point.