Diamonds Are Forever: Cookie Crumbs

**VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"Cookie Crumbs"
Season 2: Episode 2

Starring
Alexcendraburke as Opal Granger

with...
MackDaddy1 as Gary Miller

Her eyes watered with tears, her throat burned and her knees hurt from being on the bathroom floor so long with her head in the toilet bowl.

Oliver: Opal? Opal, open the door.
Opal: Leave me alone. (Spoke weakly)
Oliver: Opal please. Just open the door so I can see that you're ok.
Opal: I'm fine. (Used the sink to pull herself to her feet and began washing her face)
Oliver: Opal, you're scaring me now. Just let me in.

Opal dragged her feet across the bathroom and opened the door. Oliver looked down at her through worried eyes. He couldn't contain the gasp that escaped him when he saw her disheveled appearance. Her colored skin was sweaty and stretched across her bones, her black curls hung feebly around her face as if they were dead and dark bags circled her eyes. Everything about Opal seemed weak and fragile.

Oliver: Come on sis, We'll go downstairs and I'll make you something to eat, anything you like.
Opal: I'm not hungry.

Opal tried to push him out of the way but she was far too weak and he had to catch her as she fell. A lump formed in his throat when he felt how scary light she was. She managed to support her own weight and walked back to her bedroom using the walls for support when she got dizzy. Once in her own room she locked the door and crawled back into bed.

Oliver: Fuck! (Ran down the stairs) Mom! Dad!!
Mr. Granger: What's wrong son?
Oliver: Opal's really sick.
Mrs. Granger: Does she have a cold? I'll make her some chicken soup.
Oliver: Not that kind of sick. Mom.....she's has an eating disorder.
Mrs. Granger: What? Don't be ridiculous. She just ate her lunch not so long ago.
Oliver: And then she went and threw it up.
Mrs. Granger: Oh my poor little girl, she must have a stomach bug. Medicine, I'll get her some medicine. Medicine makes everything better. Let me go see what I can find in the medicine cabinet.
Oliver: Dad? You believe me don't you?
Mr. Granger: I...I thought she was just exercising too much. All the swimming, running and dancing. I thought she was just going through a fitness phase. I thought that was the reason for her weight loss.
Oliver: You noticed? Then why the hell didn't you do something?
Mr. Granger: I convinced myself it was all the exercise. I watched her at meal times and she'd eat her food so I saw no reason to worry. I told myself there couldn't be anything wrong with her if she was eating. I should have seen the weight loss for what it truly was but I didn't. I guess I didn't want to believe the truth. I've failed her as a parent.
Oliver: And I've failed her as a brother. But now we have to help her.
Mr. Granger: I don't know what to do.
Oliver: What? Dad, you have to know. You and mom know the answers to everything, that's why you're the parents. You can solve anything. You have to.
Mr. Granger: I'm sorry son. I'll go talk to your mother.
Oliver: But what about Opal?
Mr. Granger: Oliver, please....let me go calm you mom down.
Oliver: What the fuck! Owen!
Owen: What? What happen?
Oliver: We have to help Opal.We have to do something and we have to so something now.
Owen: Like what? She won't listen to us.
Oliver: This is too much I don't know how to handle this.
Owen: Well I don't know how to handle this either.
Oliver: I'll get her some food. I'll force it down her throat if I have to.
Owen: You already tried that. And that didn't help. But she'd been eating little portions of food the past few days. Maybe she's getting better.
Oliver: She's not getting better O, she's getting worse. Haven't you seen the state of her? She's just skin and bones. Anything she eats she pukes right back up. Now what are we going to do?
Owen: I've already told you I don't know. (Stormed off)
Oliver: Ahh!! (Walk towards Opal's bedroom with his back against the door) Opal, can you hear me sis?
Opal: Go away.
Oliver: Don't be like that. Come on sis, come and sit with your big bro.
Opal: (Groaned as she rolled over in her bed feeling weak and tired)
Oliver: Opal please, just let me help you.

Letting out a small whimper Opal used all of her strength to get herself out of bed. She looked at herself in the mirror hating the image she saw. Turning away from her repulsive reflection she went to her dresser and pulled out some sweatpants, jacket and top. She changed into the clean clothes and tied her shoes before tying her hair back in a loose ponytail. Opening the door she briefly looked down at her brother before stepping past him and heading downstairs keeping a firm hold on the banister.

Oliver: Good you're out. How about some food?
Opal: No thank you. I'm going for a run.
Oliver: Opal...
Mr. Granger: Let her go Oliver. (Close the door as Opal left)
Oliver: What did you do that for?!
Mr. Granger: Forcing her to eat isn't going to help. We're going to need professional help for this. I've made some phone calls. A specialist will be coming round to speak to Opal on Tuesday afternoon.
Oliver: But that's three days away.
Mr. Granger: It was the earliest appointment I could arrange.

Oliver stormed out of the house. Mr. Granger sighed before sitting down with his wife in the living-room wondering where each of his three children had stormed off to.

Opal was running at a very slow speed and was beginning to feel dizzy. She stopped at a bench on the edge of a large field and sat down as she tried to get her breath back. She placed her head between her knees waiting for her vision to become clear. When the scene around her stopped spinning in a blur of color she sat up straight and looked out over the field.

Many families were taking advantage of the sunny day and were having a picnic on the field. Her stomach rumbled loudly and she unconsciously licked her lips as she watched a young boy bite into a sandwich.

Opal: No, I'm not hungry. I don't want food. Food is the enemy. Food makes me fat.

Opal jumped slightly as a football hit the bench beside her. A tall man apologized as he came to collect the ball with a little boy, presumably his son, following behind him.

Little boy: Daddy. That girl looks like a skeleton.
Man: Sssh Dillon, you shouldn't say things like that.

Feeling uncomfortable Opal stood up and began walking across the field in the opposite direction of Dillon and his dad. As she walked, she wasn't paying attention to where she was going and she stood in a slight dip in the field and fell over.

Voice: Hey, Opal are you ok?
Opal: I'm fine. (Turned her head to see Gary holding her upright) You can let go now.
Gary: Right, sorry. So where are you going?
Opal: Anywhere but home. (Looked over Gary's shoulder seeing a group of people sat on a blanket with a picnic basket) Is that your family?
Gary: Oh yeah, come on I'll introduce you. (Taking her hand and leading her over) Opal this is my mom and dad, my Aunt Joy and Uncle Ray and this is my little cousin Maggie.
Maggie: Hewwo Opaw.
Opal: Um hi.
Gary: Would you'd like to join us Opal.
Opal: Oh no, I should probably get going.
Maggie: Cookie. (Offering her the half eaten cookie in her pudgy little hand)

Opal looked helplessly at Gary who only smiled at her before reluctantly accepting the cookie from the little girl's hand.

Opal: Thanks Maggie. It was nice meeting you all. I'll see you at school Gary.

She continued slowly walking away with the cookie held tightly in her hand.

Diamonds Are Forever: Sandy Beach

**SECOND SEASON PREMIERE**
 **VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"Sandy Beach"
Season 2: Episode 1

Starring
ForeverGorgeous as Gem Alexander
Ruubin as Crystal Darcy

with...
Lige07 as Drake Darcy

Stepping out of Ruby's house, Gem began walking towards Crystal house in a daze of what she discovered. Taking a deep breath, she made her way up the Darcy's garden path and knocked on the door.

Gwyneth: Oh, hello Gem. Crystal just went to her bedroom to put away her school bag.
Gem: Thank you Mrs. Darcy. (She walked towards Crystal's bedroom)
Crystal: Gem, what are you doing here?
Gem: I've found out Ruby's problem.
Drake: What is it? (Step inside and placed his guitar down by the doorway)
Crystal: Drake, this doesn't concern you.
Gem: Crystal, just leave him alone, not the time for you guys to start fighting.
Crystal: Sorry, so whats Ruby's problem?
Gem: She's been cutting herself.
Crystal: (Eyes widened) Are....are you sure?
Gem: I'm positive.
Drake: This is really serious.
Crystal: But how did you find out? Did she tell you?
Gem: Of course she didn't tell me. I was in her bedroom on her computer. I know I had no right to look through her things but my curiosity got the best of me. I found a folder full of poetry all about cutting. I only read a few but I'm positive they're about Ruby and not something she just made up.'
Drake: Wait, when were you in her room?
Gem: I went to her house instead of going to math class. I let my self in with the spare key.
Crystal: But what about your dentist appointment?
Gem: There was no dentist appointment Crystal.
Drake: Why were you skipping class?
Gem: This isn't about me right now; I came here to talk about Ruby.
Crystal: I've never seen any marks. On her arms I mean, I've never seen any cuts or scars. Maybe the poems are just stuff she's made up.
Gem: Have you ever seen her legs though? Think about it, she always changes in the toilet stall when we have gym, she never wears shorts, skirts or dresses unless she has leggings underneath.
Crystal: But what would make Ruby want to hurt herself?
Drake: It could be anything. Maybe she just wants attention.
Gem: I don't think this is attention seeking. Not with the lengths she's gone to to hide it from everyone. This is something...I don't know...it's an inner scream I guess. Something or someone is bothering her and cutting is her way of coping with it.
Drake: It's not a great way of coping if you ask me.
Crystal: Well neither is starving yourself, like Opal.
Gem: What a messed up group of friend we are, huh?
Drake: So what's the problem with you two then?
Gem: My problem really isn't any of your business.
Drake: Crystal?
Crystal: I'm not telling you Drake.  So what are we going to do about Ruby and Opal?
Drake: Don't change the subject! Tell me what's wrong Crystal, and tell me now!!
Crystal: No! Just drop it Drake! Please get out of my room!
Drake: Fine, but I'll find out soon Crystal.
Gem: (Sat down on Crystal's bed) Do you want to talk about it? Your problem I mean.
Crystal: You can tell me yours if you like. I promise I won't tell the others.
Gem: I never want to talk about it. Not now and not ever. Speaking about it would just make it seem more real. If I stay silent, then maybe I can pretend it's just a bad nightmare.
Crystal: Why are we all like this?
Gem: What do you mean?
Crystal: Why do we keep these important things from each other? Why haven't we done anything to help one another before? Why is our friendship based on not addressing the important issues?
Gem: I don't know. I guess we just have a friendship of convenience. We all have problems that we'd sooner ignore so we hang around together because we have this I won't ask if you don't agreement. But now that's been broken and everything's messed up and even more complicated.
Crystal: Do you think we'll ever be able to help Ruby and Opal?
Gem: I honestly don't know. I think Opal is going to need the support of her family to get through this. As for Ruby, well I think maybe Max is the only one with any hope of getting through to her. If he isn't able to help I don't think anyone can.
Crystal: Are you going to tell Max then?
Gem: Don't think we really have a choice.
Crystal: Yeah...
Gem: I should get home. I'll see you tomorrow.

Crystal walked her to the door and waved goodbye. Gem quickly walked to her house located a few doors down. She fit the key in her lock and let herself in calling out to her parents to let them know she was home.

Mrs. Alexander: Gem, where on earth have you been?
Gem: I've been at Crystal's. Go ahead and ask if you don't believe me. 
Mr. Alexander: And where were you when you were supposed to be in Mr. Rogers' math class?
Gem: I...um...I have homework. (Turned around and tried to make a quick escape) 
Mr. Alexander: Sit down young lady!
Mrs. Alexander: Mr. Rogers' phoned us a few minutes before you came in. He told us you were absent from his class this afternoon.What do you have to say for yourself?
Gem: I just...there was something important I needed to do.
Mrs. Alexander: And what could possibly be more important than your education?
Gem: It doesn't matter ok, just forget about it.
Mr. Alexander: Gem, this isn't at all like you. Now where were you this afternoon, and no lies?
Gem: I was at Ruby's.
Mrs. Alexander: Where were you really?
Gem: I told you, I was at Ruby's. I'm telling the truth.
Mr. Alexander: Now come on Gem, tell us the truth now.
Gem: I really was at Ruby's dad. I let myself into her house with the spare key, I know it was wrong but I did it and I'm sorry.
Mrs. Alexander: Gem Theresa Alexander, you can't just let yourself into other people's houses!
Gem: I said I'm sorry. It won't happen again.
Mr. Alexander: Are you struggling with your math? Is that why you skipped class?
Gem: What? No I...I just needed a break ok.
Mrs. Alexander: Well in future, organize your need for breaks outside of school hours.
Mr. Alexander: Gem honey, be honest with me now. If you are struggling in class it's ok, you don't have to be ashamed. I'm sure Mr. Rogers' will be more than willing to tutor you after school. I could call him now and arrange it if you like.
Gem: No! My math's is fine alright, just stay out of my business!
Mrs. Alexander: Don't raise your voice at us young lady!
Mr. Alexander: Everybody just calm down. Gem, if you aren't having problems in class why did you skipped this afternoon? Are you being bullied?
Mrs. Alexander: Of course she's not being bullied. Everybody loves our Gem.
Gem: Yeah, some people love me too much. (She whispered)
Mr. Alexander: What did you say?
Gem: Nothing. I'm sorry I missed class today, it won't happen again. Can I go to my room now?
Mr. Alexander: You still haven't told us why you ran out of school.
Gem: I didn't run, I walked.
Mrs. Alexander: Don't get sarcastic with your father.
Mr. Alexander: Gem, you can tell us anything, you know that don't you?
Gem: Well maybe I don't want to tell you every personal detail of my life, have you ever considered that? (Got up and stormed up the stairs to her bedroom)

Much to Gem's annoyance, Max was absent from school over the next few days so she hadn't been able to tell him about Ruby's problem. Crystal and Gem had shared a few whispered conversations about the Ruby's welfare but both decided it would be better to wait until Max was up to speed with her situation.

Oliver and Owen continued to sit with them at lunch. Fortunately, no more arguments had broken out between the siblings and to everyone's relief Opal was beginning to eat a little more every day; not as much as they'd have liked but still more than she had eaten for a long while.

At the end of the school week poor Gem once again found herself trapped in Mr. Rogers' classroom. As he stalked towards her she tried to make a run for it but he yanked her back by a fistful of her hair and slammed her against the wall placing his hand over her mouth so she couldn't scream.

Mr. Rogers: Now Gem, be a good girl and do what I say or I'll invite one of those friends of yours to stay behind after class. You don't want that now do you?
Gem: (Frighten, she shook her head refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing her cry)
Mr. Rogers: That's my good girl. (Brushed aside a strand of her hair in a way that was almost affectionate)

A second later, Gem let out a gasp of surprise as she was forced onto her back on the teacher's desk. She closed her eyes as his hands fiddled with her belt before unzipping her jeans and tugging them down her legs along with her underwear. As the vile creature above her dirtied her once more, Gem kept her eyes tight shut trying to pretend that his moans and grunts were the sound of the sea and his breath ghosting over her face was nothing more than a light breeze as she lay down not on a desk but a sandy beach.

Of course, pretending she was somewhere else didn't help her situation at all and the truth was evident from the ache between her legs that throbbed with every step she took on her journey home.

***Hey guys, hope you all enjoyed this episode. I might no longer be a part of Stardoll, but I still love storytelling. Out of all the blogs I gave away and deleted, I kept this one only, because I love sharing these stories and I want to complete them as well. Especially DAF, this story really hits close to home with me, I wrote it when I was sixteen and coming out of a really dark place, Ruby's character was inspired by my own demons. Translating the chapters into 'episodes' really doesn't give the story that much justice, but for right now I'm more comfortable with this format. That being said, I don't have a exact set schedule on how the episodes will be released. I may post them once a week, or all of them in one week. Haha, I don't really know. In the story itself, there are 26 chapters, but when I trun them into episodes I sometimes merge a couple chapters, so I don't know exactly how many episodes there will be in the complete series, but there will be a total of 3 seasons  for sure. Hopefully the series is completed by the end of the year, maybe even earlier.  I will only be  focausing on this show, and once this is done, then I'll move on to finishing Samantha King, which was originally a 40 chapter story to begin with. Agian, hope you guys enjoy this. Really would love to hear your feedback.

Diamonds Are Forever: Enough

**FIRST SEASON FINALE **

"Enough"
Season 1: Episode 9

Starring
ForeverGorgeous as Gem Alexander
Ruubin as Crystal Darcy
Alexcendraburke as Opal Granger
Missricopenguin as Ruby Lorenzo

with...
Lige07 as Drake Darcy
Dog_boy96 as Maxwell Briers
MackDaddy1 as Gary Miller

At school the following Monday, something happened at lunch time that had never happened before; Oliver sat beside Opal and her friends. He sat down beside Opal and draped an arm over her shoulder as if it was the most natural thing in the world. His sister's eyes had practically bulged out of her head before she pushed his arm off and continued talking to Ruby as if Oliver wasn't there. A short while later Drake sat down with them too; Ruby was possibly the only one to notice the faint blush that formed on Crystal's cheeks when Drake gently tucked a stray gold lock behind her ear. Oliver and Drake were not the only addition to the diamond girls' lunch group. Gary and Maxwell were also sitting with them as was Opal's little brother Owen since he did anything their older brother did. As usual, Opal wasn't eating anything. Oliver instructed her to eat her sandwich and everyone else froze in their actions waiting to see what would happen.

Opal: I'm not hungry. (Hissed at him turning to glare at Gem and Crystal)
Oliver: I don't care you need to eat.
Opal: Don't tell me what to do. (Snapped at him)
Oliver: Just eat the fucking sandwich! (Took the sandwich out of her bag and forcing it into her hands)
Opal: (Threw the sandwich into the bin) I said I'm not hungry!
Oliver: That's it! (Seizing the back of his sister's head with one hand and holding his own sandwich in the other and trying to force it between her lips)
Opal: (Let out an anguished wail and turned her face away from the offending food struggling to move away)
Oliver: (Forcibly turned her face back and pushed the bread into her mouth making her scream and almost choke)
Ruby: Stop it, that's enough! (Pulling Oliver off of Opal) She said she's not hungry so just leave her alone!
Opal: (Lean forward and spit out the bread)
Owen: Oliver, what's going on?
Oliver: She needs to eat. (Glaring at Ruby)
Ruby: She'll eat when she wants to. Trying to force her isn't going to help; she'll just throw it up anyway.
Opal: I'm going to the bathroom. (Stood up)
Oliver: No you are not. (Grabbed her bony wrist)
Opal: Let go of me!
Ruby: Let her go, you're hurting her!
Oliver: Don't you see what you're doing to yourself? This needs to stop Opal.
Opal: Nothing's wrong with me just leave me alone.
Drake: Guys calm down.
Owen: What's going on? (Stamping his foot in annoyance)
Opal: Stop it!
Ruby: Let her go you idiot, you're not helping!
Oliver: Opal you need to eat damn it!
Drake: Oliver, just let her go.
Owen: WHAT'S GOING ON? (Shouted finally gaining everyone's attention)
Oliver: Opal has a problem.
Opal: No! I don't!!
Oliver: She's not eating. And she's lost too much weight. She's been making herself sick.
Owen: Why?
Opal: He's lying, there's nothing wrong with me! (Shouted furiously before kicking her Oliver in the shins and running off)
Everyone: (Silent)
Ruby: (Gave a sarcastic round of applause) Bravo! Nicely handled, that just made everything so much better!
Gem: Ruby, don't. This isn't the time for your sarcasm.
Maxwell: I think everybody should just calm down.
Oliver: I was trying to help her.
Ruby: Great job! Are you happy now?
Gem: Ruby, that's enough!
Owen: Why is Opal doing this?
Ruby: Why do you think?
Maxwell: Ruby why don't you and I take a walk?
Ruby: No, I'll go find Opal; she needs someone to hold her hair back when she pukes. (She said bluntly before walking off)
Oliver: Stupid red-headed bitch. (Spoke once Ruby was out of ear-shot)
Maxwell: Don't talk about her like that!
Oliver: How can you defend her? (Staring down at Maxwell) My baby sister has an eating problem and her supposed friend doesn't seem to give a shit!
Maxwell: This coming from the brother who is in part responsible for his sister's eating disorder! You know, unlike you, Ruby actually noticed that Opal has a problem. You had to be told. From where I'm standing I'd say that Ruby cares more about Opal than you. At least she noticed something was wrong!
Oliver: (Had no reply to those words knowing that they were partly true)
Gem: Have you talked to your parents about Opal? (Trying to break the tension between Max and Oliver)
Oliver: No. I wouldn't know what to say.
Gem: I guess that's understandable. (Thinking of how she had no idea to address her own problem)
Gary: So what do we do now? (Rubbed Crystal's arm comfortingly oblivious to Drake's heated stare)
Maxwell: I got these from the doctor's when I got my burn checked out. (Took a paper out of his bag and handed them to Oliver)
Oliver: How to overcome eating disorders. (Read off of the top of the paper)
Maxwell: You can read it or get her to read it; it might help.
Gary: Or it might just piss her off.
Maxwell: It's worth a shot though.
Oliver: (Put the paper into his bag) Come on Owen. Let's go. (Walked away)
Crystal: Is every teenager's life a big complicated mess? (Tired as she rested her head on Gary's shoulder)
Gary: It certainly feels that way doesn't it. (Unaware of Drake glaring daggers at him)
Gem: Well, I'll see you guys later. (Getting up)
Crystal: Aren't you coming to class?
Gem: I have a dentist appointment. I gotta go. (Walked off)
Crystal: Bye!
Maxwell: Do you think she was telling the truth?
Crystal: I don't know. A dentist appointment could be genuine but it could also be a cover for...well, for whatever her secret problem is.
Maxwell: You don't have any idea what's wrong with her then?
Crystal: Nope.
Maxwell: What about Ruby? Do you know what's wrong with her?
Crystal: No idea. I probably wouldn't know what Opal's problem was if I couldn't see the affects of it.
Drake: So what about your problem?
Crystal: Just leave it Drake. Opal's the one who needs help right now.
Drake: But you need help too.
Crystal: This is something I have to deal with myself. It's nothing dangerous like with Opal. It's just typical teenage girl stuff with a little bit of extra complication thrown in.
Drake: I'm not giving up on this. I'll find out eventually.
Crystal: Trust me, you'd rather not know. (Got up and made her way to class)

As she sneaked undetected out of the school gates, Gem breathed a sigh of relief and made her way down the road trying not to walk too quickly or look too guilty. Not knowing if her parents were at home or still at work, Gem headed to Ruby's house knowing it would be empty. Feeling a little sense of guilt, she dug the spare key out of the flower pot and let herself in. She shivered a little as she made her way up the stairs. The house wasn't cold by any means; it was just so lifeless and unwelcoming. It didn't feel like a real home at all. Letting herself into Ruby's bedroom, Gem collapsed onto the red-head's bed. At least for today she could escape the clutches of Mr. Rogers' perverted hands. Needing something to do to keep her mind off of the painful memories, Gem crossed her friend's room and turned on her computer. She waited it for it to load and correctly guessed the password. Gem played around on the internet for a while before her curiosity got the better of her and she opened up Ruby's word documents. Looking through the files she found a folder entitled 'Poetry'. Intrigued, Gem double clicked on the icon wondering how long Ruby had been writing poetry. Just by looking at some of the poem titles, Gem felt pretty certain she had just discovered Ruby's secret. However she opened up a few poems and read through them and her suspicions were confirmed; Ruby was a self-harmer.

Diamonds Are Forever: Fire & Ice

**VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"Fire & Ice"
Season 1: Episode 8

Starring
Ruubin as Crystal Darcy
Alexcendraburke as Opal Granger
Missricopenguin as Ruby Lorenzo

with...
Lige07 as Drake Darcy
Dog_boy96 as Maxwell Briers

Opal was out of the hospital by the weekend and her parents were none the wiser to her eating problem. One of the nurse's had tentatively pointed out that Opal looked a little under weight but the Opal had managed to wave off the kind nurse's concerns by saying she hadn't eaten much as she'd been so nervous about the performance. The nurse hadn't been entirely convinced at first but when she saw Opal eating the hospital food without any trouble she forgot her worries. Of course when Opal returned home and her parents stopped fussing over her the first thing she did was empty the contents of her stomach into the toilet unaware of her brother listening on the other side of the door.

Over in the Darcy household, Crystal was in the lounge writing an essay when there was a knock at the door. Setting her stuff aside she went to answer it.

Crystal: Oliver? What are you doing here? Is Opal ok?
Oliver: I think we both know that she isn't. She really does have an...eating problem...doesn't she?
Crystal: Yes. Do you want to come in?
Oliver: (Stepped inside, then followed Crystal into the living-room)
Drake: Hey Oliver. How's your sister? (Walks in living-room)
Oliver: She's out of the hospital. But you were right about her...problem. I'm sorry I didn't take you seriously before.
Drake: Don't worry about it, I understand. So have you talked to your parents at all?
Oliver: (Shook his head and leaned forward placing his head in his hands) I really don't know what I'm supposed to do here.
Crystal: Well it would probably help if you stopped calling Opal fat. (Told him in a harsh voice)
Drake: Crystal. (Said in a warning voice)
Crystal: Sorry.
Oliver: Don't be. You're absolutely right.
Drake: We'll find a way to help her man.

The two boys went up to Drake's room and Crystal continued with her essay. A couple of hours later Oliver said goodbye and headed home.

Drake: Need any help with that?
Crystal: No thanks, I just finished.
Drake: Do you have any other homework that you need help on?
Crystal: No, I'm done.
Drake: Are you hanging out with Gem or anyone today?
Crystal: Nope. (She turned on the T.V and began flicking through the channels)
Drake: Good. In that case we're going ice-skating.
Crystal: What? You can't even skate.
Drake: True. You can teach me then.
Crystal: I don't....
Drake: (Switched the T.V off and dragged Crystal to the ice-skating rink)

Crystal had her own pair of skates which she put on while Drake went to the booth to rent some. Drake put his feet in and began fiddling with the straps trying to fix them on correctly. Crystal watched him struggle for a few minutes before taking pity on him and helped him.

Crystal: You're useless.
Drake: Shut up. (Messing up her hair)
Crystal: Drake! (She cried hitting him on the shoulder)
Drake: (Grinned at her before heading over to the ice)
Crystal: (Followed him and gracefully began to skate across the frozen water leaving him behind to cling on to the rink edge and slip and slide feebly as he attempted to skate)

Crystal glided around the rink three times before skidding to a faultless stop beside Drake, who had fallen onto his backside. She giggled at him a little before offering her hand to help him up. He stood on shaking legs and wobbled horribly before falling again, this time bringing Crystal down on top of him. Drake apologized with a laugh not noticing Crystal's blush at their awkward position before she pushed herself to her feet and pulled him up again. He continued to wobble and fall but he seemed to improve somewhat. As they slowly skated their way round, Drake took her hand in his. The next time he lost his balance he pulled Crystal down again, this time landing on top of her. Like before he laughed at himself and made an apology while she blushed. He didn't move off of her immediately and Crystal couldn't help but look up at his handsome face wondering how it would feel to be kissed by him. Not having the courage to find out, she gently pushed him off of her and climbed to her feet. Drake pulled himself up too and took her hand again as they continued to skate.

Drake: So Oliver will be looking out for Opal too now.
Crystal: Yeah, I feel a little better now that someone in her family knows. But I still think the road ahead is going to be tough.
Drake: Well every road has bumps and obstacles. Anyway, now that Opal has her brother looking out for her my main priority is you.
Crystal: Excuse me?
Drake: This problem you have. Whatever it is I want to help but I can't do that if you don't tell me.
Crystal: I can't tell you. (Dropped her eyes downward so she didn't have to look at him)
Drake: Crystal, just tell me. (Tucked a finger under her chin lifting her face back up)
Crystal: Ok. (Sighed taking a dramatic breath) I'm an alien.

Drake frowned at her but all she did was smile before pulling her hand out of his and gliding away before he could question her further. After managing one lap around the skating rink without assistance, Drake stepped off the ice and sat on one of the chairs to watch Crystal gracefully pass by as she danced effortlessly across the ice.

Skating Rink Owner: She looks made for the ice doesn't she?
Drake: Excuse me?
Skating Rink Owner: That pretty little blonde you've been starring at. I said she looks made for the ice. The way she moves so freely, it's like she belongs there.
Drake: Yeah, I suppose she does.
Skating Rink Owner: I've always said she was born for the ice that one. Ever since she first came here as a little girl I've said so. You know she didn't even fall over once the first time she stepped onto the ice, she's a natural that girl. You're very lucky to have her you know; you don't want to let a diamond like that go.
Drake: What? She's not...I mean we aren't a couple.
Skating Rink Owner: Well you better get a move on and tell her how you feel son. She won't be single forever you know. If you don't make your move some over other guy will snatch her up.
Drake: Wait, you've got this all wrong, it's not like that.
Skating Rink Owner: Hey its ok, you don't have to pretend. I've seen the way you two kids have been looking at each other all day. It's blindingly obvious. I know love when I see it.

Before Drake could regain control of his vocal chords to tell the man that Crystal was in fact his step-sister he had already moved on and Crystal was now standing beside him ready to leave. Drake barely looked at Crystal as they silently walked home.

In the isolation of her house, Ruby Lorenzo sat in the bath tub with her knees pulled up to her chest and her arms wrapped around her legs. She sat alone in the deafening silence. Many thoughts crossed her mind. She thought about Opal, Opal lying on the hospital bed, falling off the stage, popping breath mints into her mouth, emerging from the toilet looking weak, the way her bone joints were beginning to poke through her skin, Opal with vomit in her hair. She also thought about Gem and Crystal, Gem looking scared and ashamed, Crystal looking confused and worried about herself and the others. Then her thoughts drifted to Maxwell, the two of them in playschool playing in the sandbox, herself building a wall of blocks around her only to have Max knock it down, Max cutting her fingers with scissors before she put glue in his hair, Max's hand pressed against the car window touching her hand through the glass before the car drove him away, meeting Max again in the corridor after being thrown out of art, Max smiling at her, Max rubbing the back of his neck, the sunlight glinting off of Max's lip ring. Ruby shook her head, her first sign of movement for a whole hour, as if to banish thoughts of her friends. Instead she tried to think about her parents but very little came to her.

Ruby shivered slightly as she finally noticed the cold. She pulled the plug and let the water go before stepping out of the bath tub and crossing the large bathroom and stepping into the shower to wash herself properly. Once she was dry she headed downstairs and watched a little T.V. During a commercial the phone rang and she quickly moved to answer it.

Ruby: Hello?
Mr: Lorenzo: Ah Ruby, is your mother there?
Ruby: No dad, she's at work.
Mr: Lorenzo: Of course she is. Give her a message for me Ruby. (Gives her the information of a time and date and hangs up quickly)
Ruby: Dad??

She slammed the phone down and switched the T.V off before heading out. She meandered down the streets until she had walked so far that she was now in the rough area of town. Walking past the graffiti walls and cracked sidewalks with an air of determination, she made her way purposely toward a little corner shop. The chime of the bell as she entered the door made her cringe and she couldn't help but scrunch her nose at the smell. She squeezed through the little aisle of the shop and up to the counter. A scruffy looking man with many tattoos adorning his bare wrinkled arms stood on the other side with a stick hanging out the corner of his mouth and reading a pornographic magazine. Ruby requested a pack of cigarettes, a lighter and beer. Not bothering to ask for I.D the man tossed the items into a brown bag before holding out his hand for the money. Ruby handed him the money and hastily took her purchases telling him to keep the change. She left the shop as quickly as she could and held the bag close to her chest as she headed back onto her side of town. Ruby breathed easier when she was back in familiar territory and slowed down her pace. She let her feet lead her and found herself on the grassy area by the stream. Sitting down and slipping her shoes off, she made herself comfortable before digging out the lighter and cigarettes. She took a deep drag before coughing and spluttering. Looking to the left, Ruby saw Maxwell jogging over to her. She took another puff as Max sat down next to her.

Maxwell: I didn't know you smoked.
Ruby: I didn't until today. (Coughing again and stubbed the cigarette out before flicking it into the river. She then reached into the brown bag and pulled out a can of beer. She opened the can and took a long gulp)
Maxwell: It's a little early to be drinking alcohol isn't it?
Ruby: Give me a break I've just quit smoking.
Maxwell: Well, hand one over to me. (He said holding out his hand for a beer)
Ruby: Why should I?
Maxwell: Because I've just quit being angry at you.
Ruby: (Rolled her eyes at him as she handed him a beer)
Maxwell: Thanks. (Opened it and downed the whole can)
Ruby: Am I supposed to be impressed by that?
Maxwell: Not really. (He scooted closer to her) Mind if I have another?
Ruby: Have it all, it tastes like shit anyway.
Maxwell: So what you doing out here?
Ruby: Just wanted to get out of the house for a while.
Maxwell: Talk to me Ruby.
Ruby: Um...I am.
Maxwell: No, I mean really talk to me.
Ruby: What's the difference?
Maxwell: I don't want you to talk just to cover the silence. I want you to talk properly, about you and what's bothering you. Take down the barbed wire for a while and let me get a little closer.
Ruby: No. (Answered coldly flicking the lighter on and admiring the flame before letting it go out)
Maxwell: Why not? Why won't you let people get close to you?
Ruby: People bore me.
Maxwell: Liar. You can't keep people out forever you know.
Ruby: I can try.
Maxwell: What are you so afraid of?
Ruby: Getting burnt. (She flicked the lighter on again) I don't want to feel the flames. (She flicked the lighter off)
Maxwell: Huh? (Looking utterly confused)
Ruby: (Smiled faintly before turning the lighter on again and waving the flame in front of his face before letting it die) The fire's pretty right?
Maxwell: Um...it's not so pretty centimeters from my face, but ordinarily I guess it's kind of pretty.
Ruby: But it hurts. It looks pretty but it hurts.
Maxwell: So that's what you're afraid of? You're afraid that if you let people in they'll hurt you, that you'll get burnt.
Ruby: Not necessarily. I might be the one to burn them.
Maxwell: I'm not afraid.
Ruby: Really?
Maxwell: Really.
Ruby: Prove it. Prove you're not afraid to get burnt.
Maxwell: How?

By way of an answer Ruby flicked the lighter back on and looked at him expectantly. She fully expected the look of shock that appeared on the boy's face. What she did not expect was for him to place his hand over the flame and hold it there as it melted his flesh. Although the burning hurt like hell and tears stung at his eyes, Maxwell did not remove his hand. He locked eyes with Ruby and kept his gaze on hers long after she's turned the lighter off.

Maxwell: You see, I'm not afraid of the fire. I'm not afraid of what I feel, and I'm not afraid of you.
Ruby: (Gently turning his hand palm up and taking in the sight of the burn mark) I didn't think you'd actually do it you crazy shit!
Maxwell: It got your attention though right?
Ruby: It did. Doesn't it hurt?
Maxwell: Like hell it does! Pass me those beer cans.

Ruby did as he asked and Max placed his sore hand onto the cold cans to relieve the pain of the burn. And the two sat there for a couple hours talking and admiring the dark sky.

**Season Finale next Tuesday, September 13th!

Diamonds Are Forever: Dance Till You Drop

**VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"Dance Till You Drop"
Season 1: Episode 7

Starring
ForeverGorgeous as Gem Alexander
Ruubin as Crystal Darcy
Alexcendraburke as Opal Granger
Missricopenguin as Ruby Lorenzo

with...
Lige07 as Drake Darcy
Dog_boy96 as Maxwell Briers
MackDaddy1 as Gary Miller

Guest Starring
MadWorld as Mr. Darcy

It was the night of the dance showcase and so far Maxwell hadn't had any luck with persuading Ruby to help with the Opal situation. Many times he had tried to talk sense into the red-head but she dismissed him each time. In dance class, Opal only spoke to Crystal and Gary when necessary and continued to rehearse as much as possible. According to Drake, he had informed Opal's brother Oliver of her eating problem but the older boy had shrugged it off.

Maxwell: How could they not care? (Whispered to Gem as he looked over at Opal's family who were also sat in the audience to watch the dance performances)
Gem: It's not that they don't care. They just haven't realized. Oliver is the only one who's been told but he could just be in denial. Owen and her parents don't have a clue what's going on.
Maxwell: How could they not notice?
Gem: She must hide it very well. Maybe she eats at the table and then throws up later without them knowing.
Maxwell: Do you think we should say something to them? Opal's parents I mean.
Gem: Is it really our place?
Maxwell: Well we have to do something. I've had no luck with Ruby and that Oliver clearly isn't doing anything.
Gem: But what would we even say?

Maxwell didn't have an answer for that so both quickly fell into silence and they looked toward the stage waiting for the show to start.

In the dressing room, Opal had her eyes squeezed shut and was going over the moves in her head. Crystal and Gary watched her from afar taking in her slight frame that was accentuated by the tight leotard she wore. Gary was shocked at the realization on how thin she had gotten. Not wanting to no longer look at Opal practice, Crystal turned back to the mirror and slid another bobby pin into her hair. They heard applause from the hall as the show started and the first dance group went on.

Crystal: Are you feeling nervous Opal? (Trying to make conversation)
Opal: I don't get nervous.
Crystal: Lucky you. I'm so scared I'm going to mess up and fall on my face.
Gary: Don't worry you'll be fine. (Assured her as he stood between both girls and draped an arm over both their shoulders) And if you do fall Opal and I will still applaud you, isn't that right?
Opal: I guess.

The sound of applause met their ears again and the first group returned as the second group left to the stage.

Gary: We're on after them.
Opal: I think I might be sick.
Crystal: You just said you weren't nervous.
Opal: I wasn't then. (Starting to sound a little hysterical) But I am now, what if I mess up like last time? Oli and Owen will never let me live it down.
Crystal: To hell with your brothers. Who cares what they think, they're both a pair of idiots.
Gary: Here, just have some water. (Handed her his bottle) It'll make you feel better.
Opal: (Snatched the water bottle out of his hand and drank a large gulp) Ok, I can do this.
Gary: Of course you can. We'll go out there and wow that audience. It'll be fun.
Crystal: Group hug? (Holding out her arms)

The trio gave each other a group hug and smiled. Applause filled the room again and they knew it was their turn. They took their positions and the curtain went up. The music began to play and the three launched into their dance routine. All was going well until half way through the dance Opal felt the room spin and unable to steady herself fell head first off the stage. The hall was filled with screams and Opal's parents were rushing up to their daughter as the teachers tried to restore calm over the audience. Crystal and Gary had hopped off the stage and were at their friend's side.

Crystal: She's bleeding! (She gasped frantically as she saw the blood seeping from Opal's head)
Drake: Come on Crystal move back. (He told her softly as he left his seat to pull his step-sister out of the way)
Crystal: Is she going to be ok? (Asked anxiously as she tried to look over people's shoulders and see what was happening to Opal)
Drake: She'll be fine, just move out of the way.
Mr. Darcy: Crystal honey are you alright?
Crystal: I'm not the one who's just fallen off the stage dad. (She unconsciously hugged Drake close for comfort)
Gem: What's happening? (She and Maxwell joined Crystal and her family)
Crystal: She hurt her head. She was bleeding. Where's Gary?
Maxwell: He's over there? (Pointing across the hall where Gary seemed to be having a quiet argument with Ruby)
Gem: I think we should intervene.
Maxwell: Right.

Maxwell and Gem fought their way through the crowd to get to Ruby and Gary. Crystal would have followed but she seemed to have lost the ability to walk so she merely clung tighter to Drake. Mr. Darcy and Gwyneth made their way out to the parking lot as Drake took Crystal to the dressing room to retrieve her things.

Drake: Hey, she's going to be ok. (He assured her as he picked up her clothes bag) It's just a bump to the head and an ambulance is on its way.
Crystal: I shouldn't have let her dance.
Drake: Hey, don't talk like that. This is just an accident. No-one's to blame. Now come on, mom and dad are waiting. (He slung Crystal's bag over his shoulder and made for the door but paused when she didn't follow) Crystal?
Crystal: Sorry. Walking suddenly seems a lot harder than it used to be.
Drake: (Smiling gently at her, he moved back across the room and picked her up in his arms and carried her out of the school) By the way. You were dancing really well up there tonight.
Crystal: Thanks. (Blushed slightly)

Back in the hall, the teachers had managed to get most people to leave. By the time the paramedics arrived only Opal's family, Gem, Max, Gary, Ruby and a few teachers remained.

Maxwell: We need to tell her parents!
Ruby: I don't think it's a really good time right now do you? (Told him angrily)
Gem: Will both of you just calm down.
Ruby & Maxwell: No! (Both shouted together)
Ms. Jarvis: I think the four of you should to leave.
Gary: Opal's going to be ok isn't she? (He looked over at Opal as she was led out on a stretcher with her family following after her)
Ms. Jarvis: She may have a concussion but I'm sure she'll be fine. (Ushering them all out)
Ruby: I'm going to the hospital.
Gem: Well in that case I'm coming too.
Ruby: No your not.
Gem: I'm her friend too Ruby, I have just as much of a right to be there as you do.
Ruby: Ha! Her friend? You haven't even spoken to her for the past week.
Gem: I'm still going to the hospital!
Ruby: Whatever. But if you even think about saying anything to her parents I'll see to it that you end up unconscious on a hospital bed!

The girls stormed off side by side leaving both Maxwell and Gary behind them.

Gary: Should we follow them?
Maxwell: I'd rather not. I don't really like hospitals. Besides, I don't really know Opal well enough to be visiting her.
Gary: I meant should we follow them so that they don't kill each other.
Maxwell: Once again I'd rather not. If they do end up tearing each other's hair out I definitely don't want to be in the middle of it.
Gary: True.

By the time Ruby and Gem had made it to the hospital it was dark outside and visiting hours were over. However, with a few false tears and a heart-melting smile Ruby managed to get them access to Opal's room. Her mother was still there by her bedside but her father and her two brothers had gone home.

Gem: Good evening Mrs. Granger. (She said politely as she and Ruby stepped into the room) How is she doing?
Mrs. Granger: She's sleeping. (Stroked the back of Opal's hand)
Gem: How long do they plan to keep her here for?
Mrs. Granger: A day or two. Just to be on the safe side. I wish I understood what made her fall.
Gem: (Opened her mouth to say something but closed it again at Ruby's mutinous glare)
Ruby: I'm sure she just lost her balance.
Mrs. Granger: Yes, I'm sure that's right. It's just an accident, nothing to worry about.

Later on, Gem's dad came to pick both girl's up. They dropped Ruby off and she made her way up the empty drive and then into her equally empty house. Switching on the living-room lights, Ruby made her way over to the phone and ordered herself Chinese take-out. She then seated herself on the couch and flicked on the T.V. She was watching a boring game show when the doorbell finally rang. Grabbing her purse she went to answer the door but found herself facing Maxwell rather than a delivery man.

Ruby: What are you doing here?
Maxwell: I'm not really sure. I just thought you might like some company.
Ruby: Well you thought wrong. Goodnight. (She slammed the door in his face and returned to the sofa)

He kept knocking for a good ten minutes before giving up and leaving. It was only when the persistent knocking had stopped that Ruby realized how lonely she actually felt. During a commercial break the doorbell rang again. Smiling she leapt up and rushed to answer it only for her heart to sink in her chest when it was not Maxwell but the delivery man with her Chinese food. Although she'd been starving just minutes before, her appetite had died. Sighing, she stored the food in the fridge and headed upstairs for a quick shower and then bed.

She fell asleep the moment her head hit the pillow but woke up in the early hours of the morning feeling a little shaken up after a disturbing dream. Dealing with her problem in the only way she knew how, Ruby reached into her bedside door and pulled out her special silver friend. Kicking off her pajama bottoms, she idly traced the patterns of her old scars before giving in to the voices in her head and creating fresh cuts. She smiled to herself as she watched the ruby-red rivers journey out of her skin.

Diamonds Are Forever: Diamonds Divided

**VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"Diamonds Divided"
Season 1: Episode 6

Starring
ForeverGorgeous as Gem Alexander
Ruubin as Crystal Darcy
Alexcendraburke as Opal Granger
Missricopenguin as Ruby Lorenzo

with...
Lige07 as Drake Darcy
Dog_boy96 as Maxwell Briers
MackDaddy1 as Gary Miller

Guest Starring
Verojun as Gweneth Darcy

On Monday morning, Opal found herself feeling oddly dizzy and she swayed slightly on her feet part way through the routine in dance class before everything went black and she collapsed into Gary's arms.

Crystal: Opal? Opal can you hear me? (Knelt by her)
Gary: She fainted. (He rested Opal's head in his lap and gently threaded his fingers through her hair)
Ms. Jarvis: What's going on?
Gary: She just collapsed.
Opal: (Her eyes fluttered open and she slowly sat up)
Ms. Jarvis: Get her some water Crystal.
Crystal: (Quickly retrieved her bottle of water from her bag before hurrying back to her friend's side and helping her to sip at the water)
Ms. Jarvis: Can you tell me what happened Opal?
Opal: Nothing. I just got a little dizzy but I'm fine now.
Ms. Jarvis: I think you'd better sit the rest of the lesson out. In fact you should probably go see the nurse.
Opal: It's ok I'm fine now.

The teacher ignored her and asked Crystal and Gary to take her to the nurse's office. Opal complained as she was led to the nurse. Crystal and Gary left Opal in the capable hands of the nurse before slowly heading back to the dance hall.

Gary: You look worried.
Crystal: (Bit her lower lip and nodded)
Gary: We need to help her somehow, we can't keep ignoring this, not when she's getting worse.
Crystal: I just wish I knew what to do. If we say anything to her she'll just clam up or deny it.
Gary: You could tell her parents.
Crystal: Opal would never forgive me if I did that. I doubt they'd listen to me anyway. They don't even seem to have noticed that she has a problem.
Gary: I guess it's up to us then.
Crystal: Do you have any ideas?
Gary: Try talking to her. What about Gem and Ruby? They might know what to do.
Crystal: I doubt it. Ruby likes to pretend that everything is ok and ignore all our problems. Gem's not quite so bad but we still all have this silent agreement not to talk about our issues.
Gary: Well that's stupid! This problem isn't going to go away just because you all ignore it. If we don't do something soon Opal will end up dead!
Crystal: I know. I know. We'll help her. (She said determinedly as they sat on the edge of the stage) I'll talk to the girls and we'll fine some way to help her no matter what it takes.
Gary: I'll help too.

For the rest of the lesson they just observed their classmates as they practiced their dance routines for next weeks showcase. When the lesson was over they linked arms with one another and made their way to meet Gem and Ruby.

Crystal: Hey girls, hey Max. (She joined her friends at the benches)
Gem: Where's Opal?
Gary: She had to go to the nurse's office.
Maxwell: Why? (Looked at Ruby)
Gary: She fainted.
Crystal: Look, we all know that Opal has a problem.
Ruby: We all have problems Crystal. And we deal with them on our own, that's the way.
Crystal: Well then we need a new way. We can't keep ignoring this. Opal's situation is dangerous.
Ruby: She doesn't want our help.
Crystal: I don't care. If we don't help her overcome this...eating disorder... Opal could make herself really ill, even die. I'm not gonna let my friend die, knowing I could of done something to help!
Maxwell: So what do we do?
Ruby: We do nothing! Opal's eating habits have nothing to do with us, especially you Max!
Maxwell: What the fuck is wrong with you? This is your friend we're talking about and her life is in danger.
Ruby: Oh stop being so over-dramatic. You're making it sound like she's about to be murdered. What Opal's doing to herself is by her own choosing and it's not our place to stop her. She has to do that for herself.
Gem: Ruby how can you say that?
Ruby: Easy, I just open my mouth and the words come out.
Crystal: We've ignored this for too long Rube. We have to do something now before it's too late.
Ruby: I don't have to do anything. I won't do anything!
Crystal: Fine, don't help. Carry on living in your world of make believe if you want to but I for one am not going to stand by and watch my friend destroy herself.
Gem: I won't either.
Gary: Like I said before, I'll help in any way I can.
Maxwell: Me too.
Ruby: What the fuck Max? I told you to drop this shit!! You all need to leave Opal alone! This isn't what we do. We deal with our problems on our own. I don't want any of you involving yourself in my problems and I'm sure Opal doesn't want us sticking our noses in her business. How would you like it if I asked about your problems Gem? Or yours Crystal? I don't think either of you are willing to share your secrets so we should leave Opal alone!
Crystal: My problems seem quite pathetic when I look at Opal.
Ruby: Does that mean you're ready to tell us what's going on with you then?
Crystal: Ruby, grow up! This isn't about me, it's about Opal!
Ruby: Well if you won't share your pathetic little problems you shouldn't try to control Opal's, it's not fair.
Opal: Thank you Ruby.

They all turned to face her shocked, they wondered how long she had been standing there.

Gary: Opal, you need help. (He told her calmly)
Opal: I'm fine.
Gary: But Opal you...
Ruby: She said she's fine so just leave her alone! Come on Opal, we'll sit somewhere else.

Together Ruby and Opal got up and left leaving the concerned teenagers behind.

Crystal: Now what do we do?
Gem: We have to knock some sense into Ruby first. We don't have a chance of helping Opal whilst Ruby's...defending her I suppose. If we get Ruby to see things our way then we can help Opal.
Gary: That doesn't sound like it's going to be easy.
Crystal: It sounds impossible.
Gem: I wouldn't say that. (She looked meaningfully at Max)
Maxwell: Why are you looking at me like that?
Gem: If anyone can get through to Ruby then it's you.
Maxwell: What? Me? I don't think so. I don't even know her that well. You're her best friends you know her better than I do.
Gem: That's not really true. None of us actually know each other very well at all. How could we when all four of us are keeping secrets from each other? To be honest we're bad friends.
Crystal: Gem's right. We're all so caught up in our own things we don't notice what's wrong with one another. The only reason we know about Opal's problem is because we can physically see it. But one thing that I have noticed is that Ruby is less guarded around you.
Gem: You have to try Max. You're our only hope getting through to Ruby.
Maxwell: But what if I can't?
Gary: Then we'll find another way. (He saw one of Opal's brothers walk by them)

For the rest of the day, Ruby and Opal avoided the others as if they were a plague. Maxwell had tried to talk to Ruby a number of times but each attempt was unsuccessful as the rest. By the end of school, Gem gave a sorrow look to Crystal as Gwyneth drove up towards the school.

Crystal: Are you alright Gem?
Gem: I..I.. (Tried to spill about Mr.Rogers) I...I'm just worried about Opal. (She said feeling cowardly)
Crystal: We all are. Don't worry Gem, we'll fine a way to help her. (Walked towards car) I'll see you tomorrow. Bye Gem. (Get's in car)
Gwyneth: Is everything alright Crystal? You look upset.
Crystal: I'm fine. Just a long day.
Drake: Are you sure? (Asked from the backseat)
Crystal: Drake. Please. I'm fine ok!

The rest of the car journey home was spent in silence. When Crystal entered her bedroom the first thing she did was call Gem but received no answer. Shrugging she put the phone down and turned some music on. Drake walked in her bedroom moments later.

Crystal: What do you want?
Drake: There's something bothering you. You were acting weird in the car.
Crystal: Please Drake. Not now.
Drake: What's wrong Crystal?
Crystal: Nothing.
Drake: It's something. Please, I'm here for you. Talk to me.

Crystal looked at him for a few silent moments wondering whether she should confide in him or not. She knew Opal wouldn't appreciate her telling anybody about her eating problem but surely the more people that knew the better and Drake got on reasonably well with Opal's older brother so maybe that could help.

Crystal: It's Opal.
Drake: What about her? (He sat down on the bed next to her)
Crystal: She fainted in dance class today.
Drake: Is she ok?
Crystal: She...she hasn't been eating properly for...well I'm not sure how long. She never eats her lunch at school she just goes to the restroom . I think...I think she makes herself...sick. She's lost a lot of weight. You can't see it when she wears her baggy clothes but her bones are starting to poke through her skin.
Drake: Wow...
Crystal: Is that all you have to say?
Drake: What am I supposed to say? I've never been confronted by this type of situation before. Have you tried talking to her about it?
Crystal: I've tired, but she keeps denying it. And the fact that Ruby is sticking up for her doesn't help.
Drake: Wait, Ruby's supporting this?
Crystal: Well no not supporting. More like ignoring it. It's just this stupid silent agreement the four of us have.
Drake: What silent agreement?
Crystal: To not talk about things. Well not talk about our problems anyway. But Opal's situation is dangerous and we can't just ignore it anymore. Of course Ruby doesn't agree, she still thinks we should carry on pretending and stay out of each other's business.
Drake: So let me get this straight. You, Opal, Ruby and Gem all have your own secret problems that you're hiding from each other and ignoring them?
Crystal: Pretty much. But if we don't help Opal soon she could die but with Ruby on her side we have less chance of getting through to her.
Drake: So what's your problem Crystal?
Crystal: This isn't about me Drake. I'm concerned about Opal.
Drake: Well right now I'm concerned about you. What are you doing to yourself?
Crystal: Nothing. My problem it's...it's not like that. My problem seems like a walk in the park compared to Opal's.
Drake: I want you to tell me what's going on with you. (Rested a palm on the side of her face)
Crystal: Please just drop it. (Pushed his hand away) You don't have to worry about me it's just typical teenage girl stuff. What I need is for you to help me with Opal.
Drake: I'll try and help you with Opal. But only if you tell me your problem first. And don't think about lying to me, I can always tell when you're being dishonest.
Crystal: I'm not going to tell you.I have other people to help with the Opal situation.

Drake sighed as he watched Crystal cross the room and hold the door open signaling for him to leave.

Drake: I'll try talking to Oliver. Maybe her family can help.
Crystal: Thanks. Now leave please.
Drake: Whatever your thing is Crystal, you can tell me.Whenever you're ready I'll be here to listen. That's what big brother's are for right?

She barely contained a sob at the word brother before pushing him out the door and locking it shut. Why him? Why couldn't she love some other guy? She thought to herself.

Diamonds Are Forever: A Stupid Fly

**VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"A Stupid Fly"
Season 1: Episode 5

Starring
ForeverGorgeous as Gem Alexander
Ruubin as Crystal Darcy
Alexcendraburke as Opal Granger
Missricopenguin as Ruby Lorenzo

with...
Lige07 as Drake Darcy
Ciaraleanne as Harmony Rivers

When the weekend came, Ruby woke up to an empty house with bloodstains on her sheets. Sighing, she stripped her bed and shoved the spoiled bedding into the washing machine as she made herself breakfast and ate alone at the dining table.

Gem hadn't been able to escape the clutches of her Math's teacher on Friday after school and after a fitful night's sleep spent two hours in the shower before joining her parents for breakfast.

At the Granger household, Owen and Oliver dug into their cooked breakfast. Mr. and Mrs. Granger ate with a bit more dignity as Opal sipped at a glass of water and nibbled on a single piece of toast for five minutes before heading upstairs to the toilet.

Over at the Darcy residence, Crystal yawned and stretched before slipping out of bed. Glancing in the mirror she saw that her blonde curls were still relatively neat. She glided down the stairs and skipped into the living-room.

Crystal: Dad? Gwyneth? (She called out)
Drake: Morning. (Called from the kitchen) I hope you're hungry.

Crystal followed Drake into the dining room and watched him set two plates of food on the table blushing furiously when she realized he was wearing nothing other than his tight-fitting boxers.

Crystal: Where are dad and Gwyneth?
Drake: They left for Aunt Alison's early this morning.
Crystal: Oh. (She mumbled in barely a whisper as she picked up her knife and fork and started on her breakfast)
Drake: Would you like to hang out with me today? Mom and dad won't be back until Sunday evening so we have the place to ourselves.
Crystal: Umm....I'm meeting the girls at the outlet later. We're going shopping and Ruby wants us all to get a manicure and then we'll probably grab a late lunch.
Drake: Oh, I guess I'll see you later then. What time will you be back?
Crystal: I'm not sure. I might go and visit my mom.

Drake looked up at her at that comment but didn't say anything. Feeling uncomfortable, Crystal thanked him for her half eaten breakfast before heading upstairs to change. With her hair piled neatly on top of her head and dressed in a simple spaghetti strapped blue dress with matching shoes, Crystal grabbed her purse and keys and headed out of the house. Before she reached the bottom of the garden Drake poked his head out the front door and called her back. She stopped and turned and walked back to him accepting the white jacket he handed her in case she got cold.

She caught the bus to the outlet and sat beside Ruby who was already on the bus. They discussed what they were going to do that day before getting off the bus together and met up with Gem & Opal outside the shopping center. Together they roamed the shops looking at different articles of clothing. Crystal and Gem took several items to the changing rooms but Opal and Ruby refused to try anything on saying they'd just return whatever didn't fit. After stepping out of a sixth shop with plenty of bags on hand the girls decided it was time for a much needed manicure.

Ruby: Do you think I should get my lip pierced? (Looked at the tattoo and body piercing parlor near by)
Crystal: No!
Gem: Don't even think about it!
Ruby: Alright, it was just a question. Maybe I should get my nose done instead, or an eyebrow piercing.
Gem: Come on Ruby, you can't be serious?
Ruby: Dead serious.
Opal: This isn't to impress Max is it?
Ruby: No, I just thought it might look cool. Whatever, let's go get that manicure.

They strutted in the opposite direction and headed for the nail salon. Ruby walked up to the lady at the desk and gave her name. The lady smiled as she checked her file for their appointment then told them to sit and wait. A dark-haired woman finished off an old lady's nails then called Ruby over. Ruby seemed to be on a first name basis with the nail technician and the two were chatting away like old friends. Opal and Gem made light conversation as Crystal grabbed one of the magazines off the table and skipped through to the pages. Another blonde woman finished up with a client and summoned Opal over and began working on her nails. When Ruby and Opal were finished, Crystal and Gem had their nails done. After paying they left the salon and admired one another's nails. They then made their way to a small cafe tucked away at the far side of the outlet center.

Ruby headed inside to get the food as the other three seated themselves at a table with all of their shopping bags. A few minutes later Ruby returned with a large tray. The girls thanked her appreciatively as they ate what they always ordered when they came there. Nobody mentioned about Opal not eating anything more. Yogurt was one of the only things she'd actually eat and they didn't want to say anything that might cause her to stop eating that too. Despite only having yogurt, Opal was the last to finish eating. Once she declared she was ready to leave they gathered their shopping bags and headed out.

Thanking Gem's dad for the ride Crystal stepped gracefully out of the car and walked up the pathway to her house. She let herself in and walked in with her shopping bags into the living room only to drop them when she saw Drake making out with some girl on the sofa, both of them topless.

Drake: Shit, Crystal! (He pulled away from the girl beneath him and quickly located his shirt and pulled it over his head before handing the girl her top) I'm sorry, I didn't expect you back so soon. Um....this is Harmony, my ummm...
Harmony: I'm his girlfriend hun.

The beautiful busty blonde girl named Harmony glared at Crystal. Not replying, Crystal hastily picked her shopping bags back up and hurried up to her room slamming the door behind her. She dumped her bags on her unmade bed and put on some music with the volume turned up as loud as it would go. Stepping out of her shoes and removing her jacket, she moved into the middle of her room and launched herself into a dance.

A short while later, Drake burst into her room causing her to pause mid-turn and stumble. The older boy switched her music off and stood awkwardly in her room with a look of apology on his face.

Drake: I'm sorry you had to see that. Did you have a nice day?
Crystal: I can see you did. (She glared at the love bite on his neck)
Drake: (He covered the mark with his hand looking a little self-conscious) Yeah, I think Harmony wants to be a vampire. (He tried to joke) Look I really am sorry kid.
Crystal: I'm not a kid. And what do you have to be sorry for? You're perfectly welcome to bring your slutty girlfriends home.
Drake: She's not really my girlfriend. Jeff just broke up with her and she was a little upset. I was trying to comfort her when she kissed me and then things got a little out of hand. It didn't mean anything.
Crystal: You don't have to explain yourself to me. What you do is none of my business. Please leave my room now.
Drake: Look, Crystal...
Crystal: Don't you 'look Crystal' me. Just get out and go back downstairs to your not-a-girlfriend.
Drake: She's already gone.
Crystal: Oh I don't even care. Just get out of my room.
Drake: No.
Crystal: Fine.

Crystal shoved her shoes back on and seized her white jacket before barging past him and running down the stairs and out the front door. She walked angrily down the street knowing it wouldn't take very long for him to catch up with her. Sure enough, he was soon yelling her name and running to meet her. She ignored him and quickened her pace but tripped when her heel got caught in a crack in the pavement. Drake was by her side in an instant and just managed to catch her before she hit the concrete.

Drake: Are you alright?
Crystal: Get off of me! (She pushed him away from her and carrying on down the road with a slight limp)
Drake: Crystal come on, let's just go back inside.
Crystal: Why can't you just leave me alone? It's like you're fucking suffocating me. Every time I turn my head you're there like a stupid fly that keeps coming back no matter how many times you try swatting it away.
Drake: Thanks for the flattering analogy. (Replied sarcastically)
Crystal: Oh bite me! (Let out a loud gasp when she felt his teeth nip her ear) What the fuck Drake!?
Drake: You asked me to bite you.
Crystal: (Glared at him before kicking him in the shin and storming off)
Drake: Fuck! Crystal wait up!

By the time he caught up with her again they were nearing the park where a large group of teenage guys were loitering.

Guy: Alright there sexy! (Called out to Crystal)
Crystal: (Looked at the guy who had spoken and feeling reckless she walked over to him)
Guy: So what's your name babe?
Crystal: Juliet. (She lied giving him a dazzling smile)
Guy: Well in that case call me Romeo.

Crystal laughed and look up at him through her eyelashes. The guys all began flirting with her and she flirted back outrageously. From the corner of her eye she could see Drake at the park edge watching her disapprovingly.

Romeo: So what's with the fan club? (Looking over at Drake) Is he giving you any trouble babe? Me and the my friends can sort him out for you.
Crystal: Don't bother, just ignore him. (Placing her hand on his arm)
Romeo: As you wish my dear Juliet. (Putting his arm around her slim waist)

She smiled back at him before stepping closer and engaging him in a kiss. His friends cheered and she could feel the triumphant smirk on his lips. He ran his tongue over her lower lip and she granted him access. She felt Romeo's hands running over her body until two strong arms pulled her away.

Crystal: Get off me Drake!! (Fought uselessly against his restraining arms)
Romeo: Hey let her go man.
Drake: (Ignored them and dragged Crystal away)
Crystal: What the hell is your problem?
Drake: My problem? What's your problem more like? What do you think you're doing making out with complete strangers? That's not the type of girl you are.
Crystal: I'm seventeen years old Drake, I can kiss boys if I want to.
Drake: Not guys like that you can't.
Crystal: You're not my dad you can't tell me what to do.
Drake: Well I'm your brother and it's my job to look out for you. (He tightened his grip on her arm)
Crystal: Ouch!

They were back at the house now and he pulled her up the garden path before opening the door and shoving her inside. He slammed the door shut with a loud bang that shook the whole house before glaring down at her. She returned his fierce stare with equal intensity waiting for him to say something.

Drake: What the fuck were you thinking Crystal?
Crystal: Oh just fuck off Drake!
Drake: Answer me! (Pulling her back by her wrist)
Crystal: You're hurting me!!
Drake: (Took a deep breath and released his grasp on her before gently rubbing her wrist) What were you doing Crystal? Do you have any idea what could have happened if I wasn't there? Do you?
Crystal: Nothing would have happened.
Drake: Are you totally stupid? Those guys wouldn't have stopped with kissing. If they had their way they'd be taking turns fucking you on the grass right now.
Crystal: (Bit her lip and a tear fell down her cheek as she kept silent)
Drake: Don't cry. I'm sorry I hurt you and I'm sorry I yelled. (He lifted her arm up and dropped a kiss on her wrist) Don't you ever do any crazy shit like that again ok.

Crystal just nodded not sure how to respond. She could understand his previous anger; her dad would have acted the same way. She was just thankful her friends hadn't seen her behavior. Ruby and Opal would have been disgusted and Gem would have probably slapped her.

Drake: I'll order us some pizza.
Crystal: I'm sorry Drake.
Drake: Me too.

As they waited for the pizza to arrive, Drake took out his guitar and played his music. With her legs tucked under her on the sofa, Crystal watched him play completely mesmerized by the way his long fingers gracefully danced across the guitar strings. Sensing her gaze, he looked up and grinned at her before asking her over. After a brief hesitation she moved over to him. Goosebumps rose as he positioned himself behind her and draped the guitar over her. Drake placed his hands on hers and began teaching her how to play. Crystal found the situation both enjoyable and torturous; having him so close caused the butterflies in her stomach to dance wildly and her heart to beat like a drum. If she merely turned her neck slightly she'd be able to look up at him and press her lips to his but she knew it could never happen.

There was a sharp knock on the door and Drake got up to answer. He came back in with the pizza box in hand. They knelt on the floor together and ate their large cheesy pizza and watched some old comedy show on the television. Crystal smiled in spite of herself as she pretended to be interested in the T.V but secretly watched him instead.