Competition

Darcy is competitive even as a child. Due to her mother's coaching, Darcy believes beauty is her avenue toward popularity and success. Contrary to what Darcy professes, competition doesn't stop with her best friend. Rachel is plain in looks but superior in intelligence. As a child in fifth grade, Darcy becomes jealous when Rachel is promoted to a gifted class. Therefore, Darcy belittles her friend's success. When Darcy finds out Rachel has a crush on Ethan, Darcy decides she likes him, too. At first, Darcy says she hopes Rachel will be happy they like the same boy, but when Rachel instead professes her claim on Ethan, Darcy decides to ask Ethan to be her boyfriend.

As an adult, Darcy has to be the most beautiful and tallest woman in the room. When she doesn't find herself in that position, she looks for an alternate way to win the...