Rachel, Alicia, and Brooke sat together on a cafeteria bench, the air thick with the clamor of students and the distinct scent of cafeteria food. Brooke was picking at a Caesar salad, her expression a mix of reluctance and distaste, a stark contrast to Alicia, who blissfully munched on her potato chips without a care in the world. As Rachel watched Brooke's weary face contort with each bite, a tinge of resentment bubbled within her. She couldn't shake the feeling that Brooke's toxic behavior was anchored in deeper insecurities. After all, they all had their struggles—but she knew Brooke's were particularly painful. Over the years, Rachel had learned about Brooke's eating disorder, specifically bulimia, and her heart ached for her friend, who was battling demons no one else could see. Rachel set her fork down, her own plate of spaghetti forgotten. She leaned forward slightly, breaking the silence that hung between them. “You know, Brooke,” she said softly, her voice laced with concern. “you really don’t need to barf after each time you eat. You’re hot as hell anyway. Don’t let those moronic jackasses tell you otherwise, Brookie.” A small smile tugged at Rachel’s lips, aiming to provide some comfort amidst the tension. She hoped to reach the fractured part of Brooke that still believed in her worth. In that moment, they both understood that friendship sometimes meant facing the uncomfortable truths, providing support, and reminding each other that they were more than their insecurities.