Conflict

A married man whose jealousy drives a desperate scheme to avoid divorce. He feigns disability after a car accident and orchestrates Kathryn's disappearance to maintain an alibi. Calm and self-assured on the surface, his manipulative mind underestimates the consequences of his actions. As the plot unfolds, his desire to control the situation tests the boundaries between guilt and self-preservation.

Kathryn's visiting sister who becomes entwined in the Mason marriage. Torn between loyalty to Kathryn and her own feelings for Richard, she navigates a delicate balance. Her presence propels the plot and she emerges as a pawn in larger games of affection and ambition. Her uncertainty adds tension as Richard interprets her hesitation as loyalty or affection.

A family friend and psychologist who articulates a calm, calculating approach to human behavior. He guides the fishing trip and uses his understanding of psychology to influence Richard's actions. His measured demeanor masks a scheming intent to reveal truth by testing Richard's responses. Ultimately, he cooperates with the police to stage events that uncover the truth behind Kathryn's fate.

A young, confident professor who emerges as a romantic rival in Evelyn's affections. He seizes the chance to propose when Evelyn wavers, becoming a potential husband and another factor in the love triangle. His presence adds tension as Richard's jealousy shifts from Evelyn to the possibility of losing control of the situation. He joins the fishing trip, becoming part of the web of events that escalates the drama.

Richard's physician who recognizes the problem as psychological rather than physical. He recommends exercise and helps shape the plan, enabling Richard to maintain an illusion of normalcy. His medical authority lends credibility to the investigation and the staged events. While he aims to help, he becomes an unwitting participant in the deception.

Richard's wife whose absence triggers a chain of clues and suspicions. Her perfume and the wedding ring found in a safe heighten the mystery, and the discovery of her body later confirms foul play. Her disappearance becomes the catalyst for the psychological game that unfolds between herself, Richard, and their circle. The tension centers on whether Richard truly understands what happened to her.