"A Difficult Reality"

The evening had been a welcome distraction for Ashley, and she was starting to feel like herself again. Emily and she had talked for hours, sharing memories of Ryan and laughing through some of the happier times in their lives. As the night wore on, Ashley began to feel a sense of peace that she hadn't felt in weeks. Just as they were getting comfortable, the door opened and Emily's partner, Alex, walked in. His eyes scanned the room, and when they landed on Ashley, he raised an eyebrow. "Why is she here?" he asked, his tone a little gruff. Ashley's face fell, and she looked at Emily with a mixture of apology and embarrassment. "I'll go," she said, getting up from the couch. But Emily quickly intervened, her voice firm. "No, stay. Ashley is here because she's upset." Alex's expression softened slightly, but his tone remained teasing. "Oh, I see. The grieving widow is upset. How long has it been now? A month? Two?" He chuckled. "Move on, Ash. From the dead guy already." Ashley's eyes welled up with tears, and she felt a stinging sensation in her chest. She had expected support and understanding from Emily's partner, but instead, she got ridicule and disdain. Without a word, Ashley turned and walked out of the house, leaving Emily and Alex behind. The cool night air hit her like a slap in the face, and she felt a sob rising up in her throat. She quickened her pace, not wanting to break down in front of Emily's house. As she walked, the tears streamed down her face, and she felt like she was drowning in her grief all over again. She had thought that Emily's support and love would be enough to help her through this difficult time, but now she wasn't so sure. Ashley didn't know where she was going, but she knew she had to get away from the pain and hurt that Alex's words had caused. She just wanted to be alone and try to process her emotions, but most of all, she wanted to hold on to the memories of Ryan, and not let anyone or anything take them away from her.