Shadow of Fear

Casey is tasked with training a new employee, Morgan Pierce, at the coffee shop. He seems strange and abruptly quits without explaining why. Casey and her boss Annette Bramble are left puzzled by his sudden departure.

Shortly after quitting, Morgan starts calling Casey on her mobile and showing up at her places, signaling a growing fixation. He follows her around the city, invading her privacy. The harassment shifts from sporadic incidents to a constant presence.

Morgan follows Casey to the bar where she also works as a bartender, making his presence felt with unsettling behavior. A coworker offers to escort her home, but Casey remains determined to handle it herself. The harassment spills into public spaces, increasing her fear.

Casey reports the harassment to the police, but Officers Hughes and Williams say they can’t act unless Morgan directly threatens Casey with killing. The protection available to her feels insufficient against the ongoing stalking. Detective Leary is recommended as a specialist to review the case.

Detective Leary attempts to check Morgan’s past convictions but is blocked by higher-ups who want to keep the case contained. The lack of access delays the investigation and leaves Casey exposed. The uncertainty fuels Casey’s growing anxiety.

Morgan’s father, Richard Steele, is tricked into believing his son is taking prescribed medication. The manipulation adds pressure at home and complicates the family dynamics surrounding the case. This deception demonstrates Morgan’s control over those around him.

Annette Bramble offers a cabin in the woods for Casey and her sister Toni to get some distance from the stalking. Casey accepts, hoping for safety and clarity. The secluded setting promises relief but also amplifies potential danger as Morgan closes in.

Casey and Toni discover there is no mobile coverage but can access neighbors’ Wi‑Fi. Morgan suddenly appears, proving the threat has not subsided. Toni fights off a direct attack, and Casey defends herself with Toni’s gun, escalating the confrontation.

With mounting evidence, authorities obtain a search warrant and Morgan goes on the run. The investigation tightens as deputies close in on his possible routes and hideouts. The case shifts from harassment to imminent danger.

Casey learns Morgan is using his mother’s surname to shield his public image, while Richard Steele steps in to speak with Casey. The revelation deepens the conflict by tying Morgan to his family and their reputation. Tensions rise as loyalties are tested.

Casey pens a newspaper piece detailing her experiences with the stalker, expressing the fear and resilience she has faced. The article gives voice to victims and pressures authorities to act. Her advocacy marks a shift from victimhood to public accountability.

Time passes and Morgan returns to the cafe, increasingly unstable. Leary and a police stakeout close in, trapping him in a tense confrontation. Leary mentions plans for a new department to help stalking victims, signaling institutional change.