Unexpected Encounters

Morgan, a new student and track star, collides with Ruby, a pageant queen with a penchant for fixing cars. Their first encounter is fraught with tension as Morgan nearly gets hit by Ruby's car. Despite the rocky start, there's an undeniable spark between them. Ruby is drawn to Morgan's confidence, while Morgan is intrigued by Ruby's complexity. This unexpected meeting sets the stage for a relationship that challenges both girls to confront their true selves.

Secrets and Struggles

Ruby and Morgan navigate their high school lives, each grappling with personal struggles. Ruby is caught between her mother's pageant dreams and her own passion for cars. Morgan, dealing with the fallout from a lawsuit against her old school, seeks a fresh start. Both girls are hiding parts of themselves—Ruby her sexuality, and Morgan her past. As they grow closer, the weight of their secrets threatens to pull them apart.

Unlikely Alliances

Despite their differences, Ruby and Morgan find themselves drawn to each other. They partner on a school project, which forces them to spend more time together. Through shared experiences and late-night conversations, they begin to understand each other's worlds. Ruby's tough exterior starts to crack, revealing a vulnerability that Morgan finds endearing. Meanwhile, Morgan's determination and courage inspire Ruby to reconsider her own path.

Hidden Desires

As their friendship deepens, Ruby and Morgan's feelings for each other become harder to ignore. Ruby struggles with her attraction to Morgan, fearing the repercussions of coming out. Morgan, on the other hand, is open about her sexuality but hesitant to push Ruby. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the fear of judgment and rejection looms large. Both girls must decide if their budding romance is worth the risk.

Breaking Barriers

Ruby and Morgan's relationship faces external pressures from friends, family, and societal expectations. Ruby's mother is fixated on her pageant success, while Morgan's past continues to haunt her. Despite these challenges, the girls find solace in each other. They begin to break down the barriers that have kept them apart, realizing that their connection is stronger than the obstacles they face.

Heartfelt Confessions

In a moment of vulnerability, Ruby confesses her feelings to Morgan. This confession is a turning point, allowing both girls to embrace their true selves. Morgan's unwavering support gives Ruby the courage to stand up to her mother and pursue her own dreams. Their relationship becomes a source of strength, helping them navigate the complexities of identity and acceptance.

Facing the Truth

As their relationship deepens, Ruby and Morgan must confront the realities of their situation. Ruby's fear of coming out clashes with Morgan's desire for openness. They must decide if their love is strong enough to withstand the pressures of the outside world. This chapter explores the difficult choices they must make to stay true to themselves and each other.

A New Beginning

Ruby and Morgan find a way to balance their individual aspirations with their relationship. Ruby decides to pursue her passion for cars, while Morgan continues to fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Together, they create a new path forward, one that allows them to be true to themselves and each other. Their journey is a testament to the power of love and the courage it takes to embrace a new beginning.

Characters

Ruby Thompson

Ruby is a high school senior torn between her mother's pageant dreams and her own passion for cars. She struggles with her sexuality, fearing her mother's reaction and societal judgment. Ruby's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace her true self and pursue her own dreams.

Morgan Matthews

Morgan is a confident and openly gay athlete who transfers to a new school after a lawsuit against her old one. She is driven by a desire for justice and acceptance, both for herself and others. Morgan's relationship with Ruby challenges her to confront her own fears and insecurities.

Everly Jones

Everly is Ruby's best friend and confidante. She supports Ruby through her struggles, offering a safe space for her to express her true feelings. Everly's unwavering loyalty is a source of strength for Ruby.

Tyler Portman

Tyler is Ruby's on-again, off-again hookup. Despite their casual relationship, Tyler genuinely cares for Ruby and becomes a supportive friend. His presence in Ruby's life highlights her internal conflict between societal expectations and personal desires.

Dylan Matthews

Dylan is Morgan's older brother and guardian. He provides a stable home for Morgan and supports her in her fight for justice. Dylan's protective nature and unconditional love are crucial to Morgan's journey.

Charlene

Charlene is Ruby's pageant coach, who sees potential in Ruby beyond the pageant stage. She offers guidance and support, helping Ruby navigate the pressures of her mother's expectations.

Billy

Billy is Ruby's father figure and mentor in the world of cars. He provides a safe haven for Ruby, encouraging her to pursue her passion and be true to herself.

Plot Devices

Dual Narratives

The story is told through alternating chapters from Ruby and Morgan's perspectives. This dual narrative structure allows readers to understand the internal struggles and motivations of both characters, creating a richer and more nuanced story.

Symbolism of Cars

Ruby's love for cars symbolizes her desire for independence and self-expression. Her journey to restore and maintain her car mirrors her own journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Pageantry as a Metaphor

The world of pageantry serves as a metaphor for the societal expectations and pressures Ruby faces. It represents the conflict between external appearances and internal desires, a central theme in Ruby's character arc.

Analysis

"Some Girls Do" delves into the complexities of identity, love, and acceptance in a world that often demands conformity. Through Ruby and Morgan's journey, the story highlights the courage it takes to embrace one's true self and the power of love to overcome societal barriers. The book challenges readers to consider the impact of societal norms on personal identity and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can be their authentic selves. It is a poignant reminder that love, in all its forms, is worth fighting for.

Last updated: April 13, 2025