"Breaking Point"

Sarah's expression turned sympathetic as Ashley broke down in tears. "I'm exhausted," Ashley sobbed, her body shaking with each ragged breath. "His tantrums are worse, he won't eat... he is constantly having tantrums." She cried, feeling like she was at her wit's end. Sarah handed Ashley a box of tissues and gently asked, "How long has this been going on?" Ashley blew her nose and tried to compose herself, but it was no use. The emotions had been building up for weeks, and she was finally releasing them. "Since... since Avan left for work," Ashley stammered. "He's been away for a few weeks now, and Alex is really feeling his absence. He needs his dad, and I don't know how to do this on my own." Ashley's voice cracked as she spoke, and she burst into tears again. Sarah pulled Ashley into a comforting hug. "You're not alone, Ashley. We're here to help you and Alex through this. And I have to ask, how are you doing physically? You're 20 weeks pregnant, and this can't be easy on you." Ashley pulled back, her eyes red and puffy from crying. "I'm... I'm managing," Ashley said, trying to downplay her own struggles. "But it's hard. Avan is away, and I'm dealing with Alex's tantrums on my own. And to make matters worse, I'm having a baby. It's just a lot to handle." Sarah nodded understandingly. "I'm sure it is," Sarah said. "But we're here to help. We'll do everything we can to support you and Alex. And maybe, just maybe, we can find a way to help Alex cope with his dad's absence and his new role as a big brother." Ashley looked at Sarah, feeling a glimmer of hope. "Do you think... do you think Alex will be okay with the new baby?" Ashley asked, her voice laced with worry. Sarah smiled reassuringly. "We'll make sure he is," Sarah said. "But first, let's get him settled in and comfortable. And then we can start working on a plan to help him adjust to the new addition to your family." Ashley nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. For the first time in weeks, Ashley felt like she wasn't alone. She had a team of professionals who were willing to help her and Alex through this challenging time. And with their support, maybe, just maybe, they could get through this after all.