Ruby’s nightmare
She’s horrified when her rape ordeal becomes public knowledge
Everyone is discussing the case
There’s positive news for Ruby this week, who learns that her rapist, Matt, has been charged with the crime, while Ross has been charged with being complicit in the attack, having watched and done nothing as his pal took advantage of her comatose state. When the incident makes the
Walford Gazette, the Square is awash with gossip, and Ruby’s horrified when everyone finds out that she was the victim.
The news of Ross and Matt’s charges is difficult for Martin to hear, as he went to school with the duo, but he tries to support Ruby. Support is something the poor girl needs when she bumps into Jay.
‘Jay drops a newspaper on the floor, and the rape charge is on the front page,’ reveals Louisa Lytton, who pays Ruby. ‘Ruby’s name isn’t reported, but she’s worried people will find out it’s her. She feels like the whole world is looking at her.’
Ruby’s torment continues when she sees a raft of online comments from people pouring scorn on her allegations. The comments get so bad that she panics when she hears her doorbell ring. But it’s only Jay, who has come round to ask her on a date.
Stressed Ruby heads to The
Vic with Stacey, but in a special episode, set solely in the pub, her troubles get much worse…
‘Everyone is discussing the case, and then Ruby sees that Matt and Ross are there with Martin,’ says Louisa. ‘Stacey’s about to fly off the handle, so Ruby tries to keep her quiet. She wants to leave but can’t, because she doesn’t want to arouse suspicion by just walking out.
‘Then Glenn comes in – Matt and Ross’ friend. Ruby hears what he says, and she blurts out something that means everyone knows she’s the victim. She’s like, “Oh my God, what have I done?”’
The next day, Whitney pays her a visit. Can Whit – groomed by stepdad Tony and sexually exploited by boyfriend Rob – give Ruby the strength to face her neighbours with her head held high?