The Business of Strangers

As Julie Styron navigates the skies, she is anxious about an important meeting that could impact her career. The pressure mounts when her CEO sends a sudden request for a meal, amplifying her unease.

Feeling the looming threat of job loss, Julie seeks advice from headhunter Nick Harris. She hopes to strengthen her professional standing, underscoring the high stakes she faces in her career.

Julie's day takes a turn for the worse when her new assistant Paula Murphy arrives 45 minutes late. The delay leads to a disastrous meeting, forcing Julie to make the difficult decision to let Paula go.

In an unexpected twist, Julie is promoted to CEO, an event that leaves her feeling both elated and confused. The responsibilities of her new position add to her internal conflict about her personal sacrifices.

While waiting out a flight delay, Julie shares a drink with Paula at a hotel bar. Their candid conversation reveals mutual frustrations and makes Julie reconsider the sacrifices she has made for her career.

The trio is joined by Nick, a fellow traveler dealing with his own flight issues. As they discuss their travel misadventures, Julie begins to notice subtle changes in Paula's demeanor that pique her curiosity.

In a pivotal moment, Julie learns that Paula was traumatized by a brutal assault carried out by Nick in Boston. This revelation adds a heavy weight to their conversation, bringing their issues to the forefront.

Initially reactive with outrage, Julie decides to take action against Nick with Paula's support. They devise a plan aimed at humiliating him without resorting to violence, showing a shift in Julie's character.

The plan unfolds when Julie and Paula drug Nick and expose him in a secluded part of the hotel. This act of revenge solidifies their bond while raising ethical questions about their actions.

Paula takes out a Polaroid camera to capture Nick's moment of vulnerability. As they vandalize his body with markers, the gravity of their actions begins to settle in, marking a significant turning point for both women.

As they finish their act of revenge, Paula discloses that she is the one who was assaulted by Nick. This stark revelation adds emotional depth to their connection and highlights the complexity of their situation.

The following morning, Julie wakes up to find the word 'loser' written on her stomach, a surreal reminder of the previous night's events. Beside her lie Polaroid pictures of Paula, further complicating their shared secret.

Julie crosses paths with Nick once again at the airport, where an unexpected twist occurs. His earlier claims about traveling to Boston are revealed to be fabrications, casting doubt on everything she thought she knew.

The revelations from the previous night and Nick's deceit leave Julie reevaluating her trust towards both Nick and Paula. The narrative sets the stage for a significant transformation in all three characters' lives.