RMC -- we weren't there and there's no transcript of the actual conversation, but from your description I agree with weasil that you misunderstood (and continue to misunderstand) the controller.
From what you wrote, you "queried whether ATC wanted us to maintain 15,000’ or continue to top altitude of 23,000’ and she said no"
She's said no to the 23,000' part. She did not want you to continue to FL230. Then she logically explained that she's given you an altitude restriction and what that SID restriction meant. She wanted you to stop climbing at 15,000'.
Seems very clear to me. I hope you received further clearance before reaching 15,000' and did not bust your assigned altitude.