Malice

A young college coed is leaving school for the day and heads home on her bike. Upon arrival, she calls for her cat but discovers it cowering under a table, growling. Just as she approaches to reassure her pet, a mysterious figure emerges from the shadows and violently attacks her.

At the hospital, surgeon Jed Hill works urgently to save the girl's life, despite being told that they might lose her. His efforts pay off as the surgery is ultimately successful, showcasing his dedication and skill.

Andy Safian, a college professor, meets Jed Hill as they discuss the condition of the injured girl. A moment of recognition occurs as Andy discovers that he knows Jed from their high school days at Van Buren, building a bridge between their current lives.

Andy visits his wife, Tracy, at her workplace, leading to discussions about their home improvements. They express concerns about safety with a maniac on the loose, highlighting the tension and anxiety surrounding their neighborhood.

Later that evening, Andy sees Tracy with another man, creating doubt and suspicion. Although Tracy explains that the man is a lawyer handling family business, Andy's jealousy begins to brew.

As they share a meal in bed, the couple attempts to connect intimately, but Andy becomes aware of their neighbor's son watching. This moment highlights the pressures of their relationship amidst escalating concerns over safety and jealousy.

Andy discovers the violently mutilated body of one of his students, Paula Bell, while visiting her home after she misses an appointment. The shocking nature of this discovery intensifies the sense of danger present within their community.

Tracy ends up in the emergency room with a ruptured ovary, and it is revealed during surgery that she was four weeks pregnant. After the trauma, she suffers a miscarriage, unleashing a wave of emotions in both her and Andy.

Devastated by the surgery that removed a healthy ovary, Tracy decides to take legal action against Dr. Hill for $20 million. Their marriage worsens as blame and resentment seep into their interactions, showcasing the strain of their circumstances.

Andy learns through a confrontation that he is sterile, which means he could not have fathered Tracy's baby. He also suspects an affair between Tracy and her lawyer, leading him to confront his wife's complicated web of lies.

In a fit of anger and betrayal, Andy accuses Tracy's lawyer of an affair. This confrontation leads to deeper tensions as he reflects on their crumbling marriage and the secrets that have come to light.

Upon stalking Tracy, Andy discovers that her doctor, Lillianfield, is actually Jed Hill. This revelation devastates him further, revealing the depth of Tracy's betrayal and the entangled lives of the characters.

In a climactic moment, Tracy's intentions are revealed, and she fatally shoots Jed when he attempts to convince her to pay off Andy. This drastic action reflects the moral decay and desperation that has enveloped her character.

As Tracy tries to make amends with Andy, she is confronted by Detective Harris. The police ultimately arrest her, leading to her realization of the ramifications of her manipulations.

In the aftermath, Andy sits with Detective Harris on his porch. They reflect on the tumultuous events that transpired while hinting at new beginnings, moving forward from the chaos.