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.

Diamonds Are Forever: Breath Mints

**VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED **

"Breath Mints"
Season 1: Episode 4

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

Guest Starring
Mr.Wannabecool as Mr.Rogers
Verojun as Gweneth Darcy

The morning rain clouded up on the window pane making a pattering sound as each droplet hit the glass. Opal groaned and tried to block the noise out but was unsuccessful. She slowly opened her eyes and wiped the sweat off of her brow. Just as she was considering closing her eyes and going back to sleep her 15 year old brother Owen banged his fist on her door urging her to wake up. Feeling miserable and horrid she slipped out of her bed and headed to the bathroom for a shower. Skipping breakfast she brushed her teeth and dressed ready for school. Before heading downstairs she examined her reflection in the mirror not at all satisfied with what she saw.

Owen: Opal, come on fatty, we're waiting for you. (Knocking on her door again.)
Opal: I'm coming!(She cast one final sad look at her mirror image before heading downstairs)
Oliver: Oh I thought I heard an elephant. (Laughs along with Owen)
Opal: (Glares at them both)
Mrs. Granger: Come on kids, hurry up or you'll be late. (Ushered them out the door and into the car) Well that's just typical. (Annoyed when she found that the road was blocked.)
Oliver: Don't worry about it mom we can walk.
Owen: Yeah chubby needs the exercise. (Nudges Opal in the ribs.)
Opal: Fuck off Owen!
Mrs. Granger: Opal mind your language. Alright you three, get out and walk but don't wonder off please.

The three siblings said goodbye to their mother and climbed out of the car. On the way to school, Opal walked ahead of her brothers trying to ignore them as they raised their voices whenever they made a nasty comment about her. When she arrived at the school gates the other three girls were already waiting for her there. As they walked through the gates Maxwell caught up with them and tapped Ruby on the arm.

Maxwell: Good morning sunshine!
Ruby: Sunshine? Is that supposed to be some kind of pick-up line?
Maxwell: That depends. Do you like cheesy pick-up lines?
Ruby: I'll have to get back to you on that.
Maxwell: Cool. So are you going to introduce me to your friends?
Ruby: Girls this is Maxwell. This is Gem, Crystal and Opal.
Maxwell: Alright, lovely to meet you ladies. (Placed a kiss on each of the girls hands)
Gem: (Wiped her hand clean)
Crystal: (Smiled awkwardly)
Opal: (Giggled slightly)
Ruby: (Rolled her eyes and elbowed Maxwell in the ribs)
Maxwell: Ouch what was that for? (Rubbed his sore spot)
Ruby: You're supposed to be turning on the charm for me not my friends.
Max: Well I'm not so sure if I want to now.
Ruby: Fine. See if I care. (Led the other girls away from Maxwell)
Gem: He seemed very interested in you. How do you know him?
Ruby: He was in playschool with us. I put glue in his hair one time.
Opal: Wait, are you telling me that's Maxwell Briers? (Mouth falling open in shock)
Ruby: Yeah why?
Opal: Hell! How did he get so...so...
Crystal & Gem: Hot!
Ruby: He's not that hot.
Opal: Are you blind? He's gorgeous.
Crystal: He's definitely got that sexy bad-boy look.
Gem: Not my type but he is ridiculously good-looking.
Opal: And he so has the hots for you.
Ruby: He does not, he's just being a flirt....ok maybe he is interested in me but that's only because he doesn't really know me and even if he did I don't like him back.
Crystal, Gem & Opal: Liar! (They accused Ruby simultaneously)
Ruby: Ok he's drop dead gorgeous and I want him so bad. Happy now?
Crystal: Come on, let's go to class.

The girls made their way to their math class, Gem turning steadily paler with every step that took them closer to Mr. Rogers' classroom door.

Mr. Rogers: Good morning girls. (Eying each girl as they crossed to their seats paying particular interest to Gem)
Gem: (Ignored Mr. Rogers and headed to her desk at the back)
Opal: (Takes her seat next to Crystal and her stomach growled slightly)
Crystal: (Looked at her friend quizzically but Opal kept her eyes downward)

Half way through the lesson, Mr. Rogers made his way around the room pausing at his students' desks to help them with their work. Before he could get to Gem's desk, Gem had already made a hasty exit with the excuse of needing the toilet.

Crystal: Do you think she's ok? She looked like she was going to be sick.
Ruby: She's probably faking it.
Crystal: Maybe someone should check if she's ok.
Opal: I'll do it. Mr. Rogers, is it alright if I check on Gem?
Mr. Rogers: (Nods of approval)
Opal: (Pushed away from her desk and leaves the room)

Opal headed to the nearest girls restroom and called out Gem's name. There was no reply. Rather than looking for Gem somewhere else, Opal took advantage of the empty bathroom and entered a stall and crouched down on the floor. Holding her black ringlets out of the way with one hand, she slipped two of her fingers on the other hand down her throat causing herself to gag. She forced herself to keep her fingers in her mouth until the vomit crept up. As a few tears leaked from her eyes, she pulled her fingers away just in time for the puke to fly out into the toilet. Shaking slightly, she spat into the toilet a few times before shoving her fingers down her throat once more. When she was done, she flushed before dragging herself to one of the sinks and washing her face. Looking in the mirror, she made sure all traces of vomit had left the outside of her mouth. She reached into her pocket for the breath mints she always carried. She popped a couple into her mouth before heading back to her classroom.

Mr. Rogers: Where's Gem?
Opal: I couldn't find her. (Made her way back to her seat)
Crystal: Are you ok?
Opal: Why wouldn't I be?
Crystal: You look a little sick.
Opal: Maybe there's a bug going round. (Focused back on her work)

The bell rang and the class filed out.

Mr. Rogers: Girls. When you see Gem tell her to come see me after school please.
Crystal: Yes sir.

When they entered their English class they found that Gem was already sat in her seat. She smiled tentatively at them as they approached.

Ruby: Where did you get off to? Opal came after you and couldn't find you anywhere.
Gem: I just needed some fresh air.
Opal: Well Rogers wants to see you after school. I don't think he appreciated you just walking out of his class.
Ruby: Ooo you're in trouble Gem. (Teases) Maybe Mr. Rogers is going to give you a well deserved spanking.
Gem: (Forced herself to laugh along with her friends as her stomach squeezed with discomfort)

The girls sat together at lunch time and Max and a couple of his friends joined them.

Maxwell: Hi girls. This is Mike and Joey .
Ruby: We know who they are.
Max: (Nudges her over so he could sit beside her)

The group chatted idly as they ate their food.

Maxwell: Aren't you going to eat anything? (Asks Opal noticing that the girl hadn't touched her food)
Opal: I'm not hungry!
Maxwell: (Opened his mouth to reply)
Ruby: (Crushed his foot with her heel and gave him a look that told him to be quiet)
Opal: I need to use the restroom. Excuse me.

Opal left an uncomfortable silence after she left. The three girls looked at one another briefly before chewing on their food neither daring to voice aloud what they pretended to ignore.

Maxwell: What's up with her?
Ruby: Just leave it Max.
Maxwell: But she's not eating, surely there's something wrong.
Gem: Well it's nothing to do with you so just leave it.
Crystal: So Max? When did you get your lip pierced?
Maxwell: Back when I was fifteen. The look on my mom's face was priceless.

The group continued to chat as if everything was normal and Max wisely made no further mention about Opal. Meanwhile, Opal was once again on the floor of the girls bathroom being violently sick.

Opal: Yuck! (She muttered to herself dispassionately before flushing the toilet)

As she cleaned herself up she briefly wondered what she was actually throwing up since it had been so long since she'd had proper food. Popping the last of her mints into her mouth she made a mental note to buy some more before exiting the bathroom.

Drake: Hey, it's Opal right?
Opal: Yeah, what's up?
Drake: I was just wondering if you know what's bothering Crystal?
Opal: Nothing, Crystal's fine.
Drake: So she hasn't said anything then?
Opal: About what?
Drake: I don't know...me? I mean I've been trying to get close to her but she just won't let me in.
Opal: Leave her alone then. God knows I'd love it if my brothers left me alone. Don't crowd her. Let her come to you.
Drake: But she's thinking about moving out. She told me she might move in with her real mom. Hasn't she said anything to you?
Opal: Not a word.
Drake:But you're her friend, she must have said something to you.
Opal: Well she hasn't. Just give Crystal some space. If she wants to live with her mom that's her choice.

Before Drake could reply Opal walked away and headed back out to sit with her friends.

Opal: I bumped into your brother. (Looking at Crystal)
Crystal: He's not my brother.
Opal: Step-brother then. Anyway, he was asking me what was wrong with you.
Crystal: Nothing's wrong with me.
Opal: Yeah that's what I said. He also mentioned that you wanted to move in with your mom.
Ruby: Really Crystal? But I thought you loved your dad.
Crystal: I do. And I never said I wanted to move in with my mom, I was just considering it. She must be lonely.
Opal: And you won't have to deal with any step-brothers there.
Crystal: Well that too.
Gem: But Drake doesn't seem that bad.
Ruby: Not bad looking either.
Crystal: Don't talk about him like that!
Maxwell: You think this Drake guy's good looking? (Slung an arm around Ruby's shoulders)
Ruby: What's the matter? Afraid of a little competition?
Maxwell: Not in the slightest. At the end of the day I'm the one who's gonna be kissing you.
Ruby: Really? Well maybe I'd rather end up kissing Drake, I'm sure he'd be up for it.
Crystal: No he wouldn't. He's not going to date one of his step-sister's friends, that's just disgusting.
Mike: Do all girls act like this or is it just you four?
Opal: Act like what exactly? (Demanded to know as she and the other girls glared at him)
Joey: (Throws half eaten apple at Mike) Shut-up Mike. Leave them alone!

By the end of the school day Opal felt weak, tired and hungry, Crystal felt confused and irritated, Ruby appeared calm but was inwardly worrying about Opal and slightly fearful of getting too close to Max and ending up getting hurt. Gem on the other hand was absolutely terrified as she walked towards the door that would give entrance to her own personal hell. If it were up to her she'd have gone straight home but her friends had offered to walk up to Mr. Rogers classroom with her and she hadn't been able to persuade them not to.

Gem: Wait for me. (Pleaded looking helplessly at her three friends)
Opal: Sorry, I've got to get going. (Took off down the hall)
Maxwell: (Calls out to Ruby from over by the stairs)
Ruby: (Gave an apologetic smile to Gem before heading over to the Max)
Crystal: I'll come in with you Gem. I need to ask a question about the homework anyway.
Gem: Thank-you. (Breathed with the utmost relief and she slipped her hand into that of her friends and kept a tight hold to it as they stepped through the door)
Mr.Rogers: Oh Crystal, what are you doing here?
Crystal: I'm waiting for Gem. And I wanted to ask about question 3 on the homework as well.
Gem: What did you want to see me for sir? (Not looking him in the eye)
Mr.Rogers: I wanted to discuss a private matter. Perhaps you could run along Crystal and I could help you another day?
Gem: Crystal's coming back to my place. (Lied quickly) My dad's waiting to pick us up outside.
Mr.Rogers: I see. (Glares at Gem but reins his temper in since Crystal was there) No problem, we can discuss it another time. Have fun girls.
Crystal: (Walks out the door along with Gem) That was nice of him. But why did you lie to him though?
Gem: I just need to get home. There's some program on T.V. I really want to watch.
Crystal: (Nods and didn't press the matter even though she didn't really believe the pitiful excuse)
Gem: See you tomorrow. (Began to walk home)
Crystal: Bye. (Slid into the backseat of Gwyneth's car paying no attention to Drake who sat in the front passenger seat)

As Gwyneth drove down the road Crystal snatched sight of Ruby walking with Max and she waved to the two of them.

Maxwell: Nice car.
Ruby: If you say so. I don't really know much about cars to be honest.
Maxwell: So what's the deal with your friend?
Ruby: Care to be more specific?
Maxwell: Well your friend Opal. She didn't eat a single thing today.
Ruby: What's your point?
Maxwell: Clearly something's wrong. And she spent a long time in the bathroom. She's obviously...
Ruby: Obviously what? (Glared at him slightly)
Maxwell: (Sighed but didn't say the word out loud) All of you know but you're just ignoring it.
Ruby: Just stay out of it Max.
Maxwell: How can you just dismiss it like that? (Grabbed hold of her elbow and pulling her round to face him) Your friend has clearly got a problem and your not even trying to help her. There's something bothering Crystal and Gem too but I can't tell what and I know for a fact you're not as tough as your making yourself out to be.
Ruby: You don't know anything about me Maxwell! And whatever problems me and my friends may have, they are not your concern.
Maxwell: How can you be so nonchalant about all this? (Looked down at her in disbelief)
Ruby: This is just the way we are Max. Everyone has problems, its part of being human. The reason why Crystal, Opal, Gem and I are friends is because we have a silent agreement not to talk about those things. We all know we each have problems even if we don't know exactly what they are. But we don't talk about them, we just deal with it single-handedly. We're happy that way so please just leave it.
Maxwell: You're mental!
Ruby: And you're annoying!

Max watched Ruby leave debating on whether or not he should follow her. Eventually he decided to leave her for the time being but made a silent vow to figure out what her problem was and help in any way possible.