**The Harsh Reality**

The harsh reality of her situation hit Ashley like a ton of bricks as she struggled to process the nurse's words. "Why am I here? What happened? Why am I tied up?" she panicked, her voice shaking with fear and anxiety. Nurse Jenkinson's expression turned sympathetic, and she smiled softly. "You were found in a bad way, sweetie," she said gently. "It looks like you tried to end your life in the woods." Ashley's eyes widened in horror as she felt a wave of denial wash over her. No, no, no, this couldn't be happening. She didn't try to end her life. She didn't want to die. The nurse's words brought back fragments of memories, hazy and unclear, but they felt like they belonged to someone else. Ashley's mind reeled as she tried to make sense of it all. Nurse Jenkinson took Ashley's hand in hers, holding it firmly but gently. "We're here to help you now, okay sweetie?" she said softly. But Ashley was beyond consolation. She felt like she was drowning in a sea of despair, and the nurse's words only made her more desperate. "Don't call my dad," Ashley yelled, tears streaming down her face. "He...he...don't!" She cried uncontrollably, her body shaking with sobs. The nurse's grip on her hand tightened, and she leaned in close. "It's okay, Ashley. We'll get through this together. But we do need to contact your family. They'll want to know you're safe." Ashley shook her head frantically, her mind racing with fear. She didn't want her dad to know. She didn't want him to see her like this, broken and helpless. But the nurse's expression was firm but kind, and Ashley knew she couldn't escape the truth forever. As the nurse pulled out a phone from her pocket, Ashley felt a sense of dread wash over her. She knew what was coming, and she was powerless to stop it. The nurse's gentle voice was a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing inside Ashley. "I'll call your dad, sweetie. But I promise you, we'll get through this together."