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The book revolves around the lives of two main characters, Sydney and Tom, whose paths cross in unexpected ways. Sydney, a woman with a bleeding disorder, is navigating the dating world and trying to find love, while Tom is a complex and troubled individual with a dark past. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Tom has a fascination with blood and a twisted sense of morality, which leads him to become embroiled in a series of murders and mysterious events. Meanwhile, Sydney's friend Bonnie is murdered, and she becomes entangled in the investigation, which ultimately leads her to suspect that Tom may be involved. However, in a shocking twist, it is revealed that the true serial killer is actually Gretchen, Sydney's friend, who has been using her relationship with Randy as a cover. The book builds towards a thrilling conclusion as Sydney finds herself trapped with the two psychopaths, Tom and Gretchen, and must use all her wits to escape and bring them to justice. Throughout the book, themes of love, obsession, and the darker aspects of human nature are explored, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end.
The narrator confesses their all-consuming and long-standing love for a girl named Daisy, which they've harbored since childhood. As their relationship with Daisy deepens, the narrator is torn between the desire to express their feelings and the fear of rejection. However, their fear takes a darker turn as they acknowledge a disturbing and violent impulse that threatens to destroy the very person they claim to love, revealing a complex and troubling inner turmoil.
The narrator, Sydney, meets her date Kevin at a restaurant, but he looks nothing like his profile picture on the dating app. Despite initial reservations, Sydney decides to give him a chance, but their conversation quickly turns awkward when Kevin criticizes her arms, calling them "flabby". As the date continues, Sydney becomes increasingly uncomfortable and finds herself counting down the minutes until her friend Gretchen calls with a planned rescue excuse, while trying to determine whether she's being unfair to Kevin or if her initial impressions are correct.
The date between Sydney and Kevin continues to deteriorate as he tries to convince her to join a pyramid scheme and becomes increasingly pushy and aggressive. After the meal, Kevin insists on walking Sydney home, despite her reluctance, and becomes more and more flirtatious, eventually asking for a kiss. When Sydney refuses, Kevin's behavior escalates, and he accuses her of being a tease, implying that she will never find a husband if she doesn't kiss him on a date. As the situation becomes more threatening, Sydney tries to think of a way to defend herself, considering using hand sanitizer as a makeshift weapon, before deciding to try and make a run for it. However, Kevin grabs her wrist, holding her in place, and Sydney starts to feel trapped and vulnerable.
Sydney's date with Kevin takes a dark turn when he becomes aggressive and tries to force himself on her, but she's rescued by a mysterious stranger who intervenes and chases Kevin away. As Sydney thanks her rescuer, they share a spark of attraction, and she finds herself drawn to his intense and confident demeanor. However, despite the strong connection, the mystery man unexpectedly bids her a brief goodnight and walks away, leaving Sydney puzzled and wondering why he didn't ask for her number or try to pursue their connection further.
Tom's infatuation with Daisy reaches new heights as he musters the courage to talk to her and walk her home from school. Despite his nervousness, their conversation flows relatively smoothly, with Daisy even confessing her liking for him. Tom's darker thoughts resurface as he becomes fixated on Daisy's neck and the anatomy of her veins and arteries, but he pushes these impulses aside to focus on the moment. As they approach her house, Tom struggles with the weight of her backpack and his own sweaty palm, but Daisy seems to enjoy his company. Just as it seems like Tom might make a move, Daisy's father interrupts, inviting Tom to dinner and leaving both Tom and Daisy mortified. The encounter ends with Tom agreeing to the dinner invitation, but secretly relieved that he won't have to follow through, especially given his complicated feelings about Daisy's father, the chief of police.
Sydney is still reeling from her disastrous date with Kevin, but her thoughts keep drifting back to the mysterious stranger who rescued her. She can't help but wonder why he didn't ask for her number or pursue their connection further. As she walks back to her apartment, she runs into her friend Bonnie in the mail room, who notices the cut on Sydney's forehead from her earlier fall. Sydney is self-conscious about the injury, which is made worse by her condition, von Willebrand disease, which causes her to bleed more easily. Bonnie shares her own dating story, revealing that a guy she's been seeing on and off for a year is now talking about being exclusive, but Sydney is skeptical. As Sydney heads to her apartment, she can't shake off the feeling of unease and vulnerability, especially after the events of the night.
Sydney returns to her apartment, still shaken by her disastrous date with Kevin. She tends to the cut on her forehead, a result of her condition, von Willebrand disease, and can't help but think about the mysterious stranger who rescued her. As she reflects on her dating life, she feels a sense of frustration and despair, wondering why she can't find a decent guy. Her thoughts are interrupted by a phone call from her mother, who is worried about her dating life and concerned about her finding a partner before it's too late. The conversation with her mother leaves Sydney feeling annoyed and exhausted, and she can't help but feel that finding love and happiness is an impossible dream.
The narrator, Sydney, attends a yoga class with her friends Gretchen and Bonnie, where they discuss their dating lives. Bonnie shares that she's interested in a new guy, a doctor, but is hesitant to get serious. After class, the friends grab coffee and Gretchen invites them to an exhibit she's working on at the museum. Sydney's mind wanders to the mysterious stranger who rescued her from a bad date the previous night, and she becomes determined to find him again. With her friends' encouragement, Sydney considers using social media and dating apps to track down the mystery man, despite some reservations about coming on too strong. As she weighs the pros and cons, Sydney can't shake off the feeling that she needs to find this guy and see if there's a chance for a connection.
Tom walks home from school with his friend Slug, discussing their personal lives and relationships. Tom's father comes home early from work, clearly intoxicated, and Tom discovers that his mother has a split lip, which she claims was an accident. Tom is furious and feels helpless, knowing that his father has a history of abuse. He confides in Slug, expressing his desire to harm his father, and to his surprise, Slug seems to suggest that killing him might be justified if he deserves it. Tom is shocked by Slug's response and wonders if he is serious or just joking. As they work on their math homework, Tom's mind wanders back to his father's abuse and his desire for revenge, leaving him feeling angry and frustrated.
Sydney and her friend Bonnie encounter Kevin, the man who attacked Sydney the previous night, outside their apartment building. Kevin tries to persuade Sydney to talk to him, but she refuses, and Bonnie intervenes, threatening to call 911. Kevin eventually leaves, and Bonnie reveals that she's concerned about their building's superintendent, Randy, who she finds creepy. Despite Sydney's initial disagreement, she agrees to accompany Bonnie when Randy comes to fix her toilet the next day, as Bonnie doesn't want to be alone with him. As they discuss their plans, Sydney can't help but think about the mysterious stranger who rescued her from Kevin, and she hopes that Bonnie can help her track him down.
Sydney is getting ready to meet her friend Bonnie at her apartment, but when she arrives, Bonnie is nowhere to be found. Despite Bonnie's usual punctuality, she doesn't answer the door, and Sydney is left waiting. Randy, the building's superintendent, arrives and eventually lets Sydney into Bonnie's apartment with his key. As they search the apartment, Sydney finds Bonnie's phone and a trail of dark brown droplets, which she realizes are blood stains, leading from the kitchen to Bonnie's bedroom. With a growing sense of unease, Sydney investigate further and eventually discovers something horrific on Bonnie's bed, prompting her to scream.
Tom's infatuation with Daisy reaches a new level as he walks her home from school for the third time. Despite initial reservations and a misunderstanding about a daisy flower, Tom finally musters the courage to kiss Daisy, and they share a romantic moment. However, Tom's darker thoughts resurface as he imagines the ease with which he could harm Daisy, revealing the complexities and contradictions of his feelings for her. As they part ways, Tom is eager to kiss her again, but not before inadvertently destroying the daisy flower that had sparked a brief moment of tension between them.
Sydney is still reeling from the discovery of her friend Bonnie's brutal murder in her apartment. The police are investigating, and Sydney is shocked to learn that her ex-boyfriend, Detective Jake Sousa, has been assigned to the case. Despite their complicated past, Jake assures Sydney that he will do everything in his power to find the killer. As they discuss the case, Sydney shares her account of the events leading up to the discovery of Bonnie's body and provides information about Bonnie's dating life, including a mysterious doctor she had been seeing who was using a burner phone. Sydney also mentions a bad date she had recently and the possibility that the killer may have been someone Bonnie knew. Jake is determined to explore all leads and promises to keep Sydney updated on the investigation. As they work together to find the truth, Sydney must confront her past feelings for Jake and trust him to bring justice to her friend's memory.
Tom volunteers at a health fair with his crush, Daisy, and her friend Alison. As he works at the diabetic screening station, Tom's darker thoughts resurface, and he becomes fixated on the idea of harming Daisy, despite his strong feelings for her. Meanwhile, Tom's relationship with Daisy deepens, and she refers to him as her boyfriend, making him ecstatic. However, his excitement is tempered by his disturbing impulses, which he struggles to keep hidden. As Tom navigates his feelings and interactions with Daisy, he is forced to confront the contradictions within himself, making it increasingly difficult to reconcile his love for her with his darker thoughts.
Sydney spends the evening with her friend Gretchen, reminiscing about their recently murdered friend Bonnie and sharing memories of her. They drink wine, cry, and try to come to terms with the loss. As the night wears on, Gretchen decides to spend the night at her boyfriend Randy's apartment, leaving Sydney alone in her empty-feeling apartment. Sydney tries to fill the void by eating a pint of mint chocolate chip ice cream that Bonnie had brought over, and eventually reaches for her phone to distract herself. She opens the Cynch app and searches for Jacob Sousa, her ex-boyfriend who is now a detective assigned to Bonnie's case, indicating that she may be seeking comfort or support from him during this difficult time.
Sydney discovers that her ex-boyfriend, Detective Jake Sousa, is still active on the Cynch dating app, and she can't help but feel a mix of emotions as she reads through his profile. Despite their complicated past, Sydney reaches out to Jake, and they have a conversation about the ongoing investigation into Bonnie's murder. Jake reveals that they have a fingerprint match, but it's not from anyone in their database, and it actually matches another crime scene from 18 months ago, where a similar murder took place. The killer seems to be a serial offender who targets young women on dating apps, and Jake assures Sydney that they will do everything to catch him. As they talk, Sydney feels a sense of comfort and security with Jake, but she's also aware of the dangers and uncertainties surrounding the case. The conversation ends with Jake expressing concern for Sydney's safety and her agreeing to take precautions, leaving her with a sense of unease and a deeper understanding of the gravity of the situation.
Tom wakes up from a disturbing dream about his girlfriend Daisy, only to be met with the sound of his mother screaming in the kitchen. His father, drunk and violent, is attacking his mother, and Tom intervenes, threatening him with a fire poker. However, his father overpowers him, takes the poker, and uses it to jab Tom in the belly, causing him pain and bleeding. Tom's mother pleads with his father to stop, and Tom is forced to back down, agreeing to mind his own business and not interfere in his parents' violent confrontations. Despite his reluctance to leave his mother alone, Tom retreats to his room, his anger and desire for revenge simmering. The incident leaves Tom feeling helpless and trapped, but also more determined to protect his mother and take action against his father's abuse.
Sydney attends her friend Bonnie's funeral, where she encounters Detective Jake Sousa, who is still investigating Bonnie's murder. Jake reveals that they have not made any arrests yet and are hoping to catch a lead at the funeral, as some murderers have been known to attend their victims' funerals. Sydney is approached by Bonnie's mother, who is desperate for any information about the man Bonnie was dating before her death. Sydney feels guilty for not knowing more and not being able to help catch the killer. As the service begins, Sydney notices her friends Gretchen and Randy, but her attention is diverted when she sees Kevin, the man who attacked her on a date, standing at the back of the church.
Sydney attends Bonnie's funeral, where she's on high alert for anything suspicious, as advised by Detective Jake Sousa. She thinks she sees Kevin, the man who attacked her, in the back of the church, but she's not entirely sure. As the service begins, Sydney is overcome with emotion, struggling to come to terms with Bonnie's death and the fact that she'll never get to fulfill her dreams. She's comforted by her friend Gretchen, who notices her distress and offers support. Sydney becomes determined to ensure that she won't meet the same fate as Bonnie, and she's resolute in her decision to take control of her life and safety.
The school is abuzz with the news of Brandi Healey's body being found, and Tom is visibly shaken by the revelation. As he talks to his friend Slug, he learns that Brandi was tortured before her death, and the police are investigating the case. Tom's encounter with Daisy, who is distraught over the news, provides a momentary distraction, but he is soon faced with the reality of the police investigation. With the police chief, Daisy's father, leading the investigation, Tom becomes increasingly anxious about being questioned, fearing that his dark past and connection to Brandi may be exposed. As the day unfolds, Tom agrees to walk Daisy home, canceling his tutoring session, and is aware that he may be a suspect in the murder investigation, which fills him with a sense of dread and uncertainty.
Tom is called to the principal's office to be questioned by Chief Driscoll, Daisy's father, about the murder of Brandi Healey. Tom is nervous and intimidated, but tries to appear confident and calm. The chief asks Tom about his relationship with Brandi, who he tutored in math, and if he knows anything about her disappearance or the boy she had a crush on. Tom downplays their relationship and claims he doesn't know anything about her personal life. The chief seems to believe Tom, even inviting him to dinner at his house, which makes Tom feel like he's in the clear for now. However, Tom is still anxious and fearful that his dark secrets and connection to Brandi may be exposed, and he's determined to keep his true nature hidden from the chief and Daisy.
Sydney attends her friend Bonnie's funeral, where she thinks she sees Kevin, the man who attacked her on a date, in the back of the church. However, when she looks again, he's gone, replaced by an elderly man. Sydney considers telling Detective Jake Sousa, who is investigating Bonnie's murder, but decides against it, feeling uncertain and unsure if she really saw Kevin. Despite her initial unease, Sydney tries to push the incident out of her mind and focus on taking precautions to stay safe, as advised by Jake. She decides to lock her doors, stay off the dating app Cynch, and let Jake handle the investigation, hoping that he'll catch the person responsible for Bonnie's death and she can eventually move on with her life.
Two months after Bonnie's murder, Sydney has decided to start dating again and has gone on a date with a man named Travis. The date is going well until Sydney gets a nosebleed, which causes Travis to faint. As Travis is helped by a mysterious man who claims to be a physician, Sydney is left feeling embarrassed and humiliated. However, the mysterious man, who is revealed to be named Tom, takes an interest in Sydney and offers to buy her a new shirt to replace the one stained with blood. Despite the awkward circumstances, Tom asks Sydney out on a date, and she accepts, feeling a strong attraction to him. As they part ways, Sydney can't help but wonder if this chance encounter might lead to something more.
Tom's life is unfolding with a mix of normalcy and underlying tension. He has been walking Daisy home from school every day at the request of her father, Chief Driscoll, who is investigating the murder of Brandi Healey. Tom finds comfort in these daily walks and is drawn to Daisy's adorable quirks. However, his biology lab session with Alison is strained, as she has become increasingly cold towards him since Brandi's death. Despite the tension, Tom excels in the lab, dissecting a fetal pig with ease, which seems to further irritate Alison. As the lab session ends, Alison's behavior becomes more confrontational, and she requests to speak with Tom privately, setting the stage for a potentially volatile conversation. Meanwhile, Tom's darker impulses simmer beneath the surface, as he navigates his relationships and the ongoing murder investigation.
Tom is confronted by his classmate Alison, who reveals that she saw him kissing Brandi Healey, a girl who was murdered, just days before her disappearance. Alison threatens to expose Tom's secret to the police, specifically to Chief Driscoll, who is also Daisy's father, unless Tom agrees to stay away from Daisy. Tom is torn between his love for Daisy and the danger that Alison's revelation could pose to their relationship. Despite his initial denial, Tom eventually confesses his feelings to Daisy, who reciprocates his love. However, Tom is aware that his relationship with Daisy may be doomed due to Alison's threat, and he tries to cherish the moment, knowing that things may soon take a turn for the worse.
Sydney, still recovering from a nosebleed, meets Tom, the mysterious man who helped her, for a date at an Indian restaurant. Despite initial awkwardness due to her blood-stained clothes, Tom's charming and gentlemanly behavior puts her at ease. As they get to know each other, Sydney learns that Tom is a pathologist and a medical examiner, which raises some questions about his career choices. The two share stories and laughter, and their conversation flows easily, with Tom showing genuine interest in Sydney's life. As the date progresses, Sydney finds herself drawn to Tom's charming and intelligent nature, and they both seem to be enjoying each other's company. The date ends on a hopeful note, with Tom and Sydney clinking their glasses together in a toast to their potential future together.
Tom's life takes a dark turn when his father, an abusive and toxic man, makes a lewd comment about Tom's girlfriend, Daisy. In a fit of rage, Tom stabs his father in the gut and then, instead of calling for help, decides to finish him off by cutting his throat. As his father lies dying on the kitchen floor, Tom feels a sense of satisfaction and relief, knowing that his father will never be able to hurt anyone again. The events unfold as Tom's mother is away visiting her sister, and Tom is left to deal with the aftermath of his violent outburst. With his father's death, Tom's secrets and lies are now at risk of being exposed, and he must navigate the consequences of his actions.
Sydney's date with Tom at an Indian restaurant is a success, with great conversation and a strong chemistry between them. Tom's charming and old-fashioned behavior, such as paying for dinner and helping Sydney with her jacket, wins her over. As the date comes to a close, Tom asks for Sydney's number and they share a passionate kiss in front of the restaurant, leaving Sydney feeling melted and eager for their next encounter. Tom promises to call her the next day, and Sydney can't help but feel lucky to have met him. The date ends with Tom keeping Sydney's bloody shirt, a minor oversight that doesn't detract from the overall excitement and promise of their budding relationship.
Sydney is preparing for her third date with Tom, a man she met after a disastrous date with a man named Kevin. As she attends a yoga class with her friend Gretchen, she sees Kevin standing outside the studio, making her feel uneasy and like she's being followed. After the class, Gretchen shares her own news, that she's moving in with her boyfriend Randy, and Sydney is supportive despite having some reservations about Randy. Meanwhile, Sydney receives a call from her ex-boyfriend Detective Jake Sousa, who informs her that there's been another victim with a similar MO to Bonnie's murder, suggesting that they're dealing with a serial killer. Jake offers to come over and keep Sydney company, but she declines, telling him she has a date with Tom. Despite Jake's warnings to be careful, Sydney feels safe with Tom and is excited about their growing relationship.
Tom's life takes a dark turn after he kills his abusive father in a fit of rage. With the help of his best friend Slug, he attempts to dispose of the body by wrapping it in a rug and putting it in the trunk of Slug's car. However, their plans are complicated when they realize that someone has been watching them - Alison, a classmate who has been acting strangely towards Tom. As Tom and Slug try to figure out what to do with the body, they must also contend with the possibility that Alison may have seen their actions and could expose them. Meanwhile, Tom's relationship with Daisy continues, but he is now haunted by the secret of his father's murder and the fear of being caught. The chapter ends with Tom's anxiety and fear escalating as he realizes that Alison's presence could threaten to unravel the fragile web of secrets and lies that he has constructed.
Tom and his friend Slug are trying to dispose of Tom's father's dead body, which Tom killed in a fit of rage. As they are putting the body in the trunk of Slug's car, they are spotted by their classmate Alison, who is walking her dog. Tom tries to play it cool and talks to Alison, but her dog's behavior suggests that it has caught a scent from the trunk, making Tom and Slug anxious that Alison may have discovered their secret. After Alison leaves, Slug expresses his concern that she may have seen something and could expose them, especially once Tom's father is reported missing. Tom and Slug decide to bury the body to avoid detection, and Slug reveals that he has already prepared shovels for the task.
Tom and his friend Slug return to town after burying Tom's father's body in a remote location. Slug seems unaffected by the events of the night, while Tom is still grappling with the consequences of his actions. As they part ways, Slug advises Tom to clean up any evidence of the crime and warns him about the potential threat posed by their classmate Alison, who may have witnessed them disposing of the body. Tom is unsure of what to do about Alison, but Slug implies that she could be a problem if they don't take care of her. Tom decides to take the risk and hopes that Alison didn't see anything, but the encounter leaves him feeling anxious and uncertain about the future.
Sydney's third date with Tom starts off well, with them getting poke bowls and walking back to her apartment. However, Tom's behavior becomes strange and anxious when they approach her building, and he seems hesitant to go inside. Sydney is confused by his behavior, but they eventually go up to her apartment, where Tom learns about her friend Bonnie's murder in the building. Tom's anxiety reaches a peak, and he claims to have an early meeting the next day, but after Sydney cuts her finger and starts bleeding, he suddenly becomes calm and attentive, using his medical skills to treat her wound. As they stand in the kitchen, Tom's desire for Sydney returns, and they share a passionate kiss, leading to a intimate encounter. Despite the odd events of the evening, Sydney finds herself drawn to Tom's charming and caring side, and they seem to be getting closer.
Tom is struggling to come to terms with the fact that he killed his father and buried his body in the woods. He tries to go about his daily routine, but the weight of his secret is crushing him. When his mother calls, he has to pretend that everything is normal, but he's worried about what will happen when she returns home and discovers that his father is missing. As Tom navigates his relationships and tries to keep his secret hidden, he receives devastating news: Alison, the classmate who had been acting strangely towards him, is missing. The police are investigating, and Tom is terrified that his dark secrets will be exposed. With his world beginning to unravel, Tom is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and the darkness that lurks within him.
Sydney reflects on her incredible date with Tom, feeling a strong chemistry between them. However, their post-coital bliss is interrupted by a text message from her ex-boyfriend Jake, a cop who is investigating local cases and has become overly protective of Sydney. Tom becomes guarded and inquires about Sydney's past relationship with Jake, and Sydney reassures him that it's over. As they talk, Tom reveals that he has never lived with a woman before, citing his demanding career as a reason. Sydney senses that there's more to the story and asks if he's ever been in love, and Tom shares a heartbreaking story about a girl he loved in high school who died. The conversation leaves Sydney feeling sympathetic towards Tom, but also curious about his past and the reasons behind his commitment issues.
Tom learns that Alison, the classmate who had been blackmailing him, is missing, and an AMBER Alert has been issued. As he talks to his girlfriend Daisy about Alison's disappearance, Tom tries to hide his true feelings and worries about being discovered. He meets up with his friend Slug, who seems indifferent to the news and even suggests that Alison's disappearance might be a lucky break for them. However, Tom is horrified by Slug's nonchalance and begins to realize that his friend might be capable of something sinister. As Tom navigates his relationships and tries to keep his secrets hidden, he is forced to confront the darkness within himself and the true nature of his friendship with Slug.
Tom is questioned by Chief Driscoll about Alison's disappearance, and he tries to hide his true feelings and worries about being discovered. The chief is suspicious of Tom and notices his hesitation when asked if he knows anything about Alison's disappearance. Tom denies knowing anything, but the chief's questions suggest that he is looking into Tom's alibi and his relationship with Alison. The chief also reveals that Alison's friends told him she hated Tom and was trying to convince Daisy to break up with him. Tom's anxiety and guilt are palpable as he tries to maintain a calm demeanor, but it's clear that the chief is closing in on him. The chapter ends with the chief telling Tom that he no longer needs to walk Daisy home from school, implying that he doesn't trust Tom around his daughter.
Sydney is on her sixth date with Tom, a man she met after a disastrous date with Kevin. They meet in Chinatown and Tom is taken with the sights and sounds, while Sydney is focused on getting to her favorite dim sum restaurant before the cutoff. As they walk, Tom's medical expertise is showcased when he talks about a patient he had as an intern, but Sydney is unimpressed. They encounter one of Tom's patients, an elderly woman who thanks him for his kindness after her husband's autopsy. Tom reveals that he used to want to be a surgeon, but didn't pursue it. When Sydney confronts him about his last name, which she thought was Brown but he claims is actually Brewer, Tom offers to show her his driver's license to prove it. While Tom is in the bathroom, Sydney googles him using his supposed real name and finds an interesting result, leaving her with more questions about Tom's identity and past.
Sydney is on her sixth date with Tom and decides to Google him while he's in the bathroom. She discovers that he works at Mount Sinai Hospital, not NYU as he had previously told her. When Tom returns, she confronts him about the discrepancy, and he explains that he recently switched hospitals. Sydney is unsure if she believes him, but Tom's charming and compassionate nature makes her want to give him the benefit of the doubt. As they continue their date, Tom teases her about her earlier questioning and suggests that they both delete their dating app profiles and commit to seeing each other exclusively. Sydney agrees, and they essentially become a couple. Despite some lingering doubts about Tom's honesty, Sydney is excited about the prospect of a relationship with him.
Sydney and Tom are on their sixth week of dating and are at a diner for a lazy Sunday brunch. Tom's quirks and habits are becoming more apparent to Sydney, and she finds them endearing. However, when she suggests meeting his mother, Tom becomes clearly uncomfortable and hesitant, indicating that he may have commitment issues. The conversation takes a strange turn when Sydney tries to send Tom a text message with the name of a restaurant, but he claims his phone is broken and later admits it's his work phone, raising suspicions about why he's being secretive about his personal phone. Tom's evasiveness and defensiveness escalate the situation, leaving Sydney feeling confused and unsure about Tom's intentions and honesty.
Tom receives a call from his mother, who is worried about him due to the news of Alison's disappearance and the murder of another girl. Tom tries to reassure her that everything is fine, but he struggles to come up with a convincing explanation for his father's absence. He tells his mother that his father went to work, but she reveals that she called his workplace and they said he never showed up. Tom then lies and says his father went to a bar, hoping that his mother won't suspect anything. His mother expresses her concern for his safety and tells him to be careful, advising him to stay home and not let anyone in except his father. Tom is aware that his life is about to change drastically, and he's anxious about his mother's return home, as he'll have to convince her not to call the police about his father's disappearance. Meanwhile, Tom is also worried about the investigation into Alison's disappearance and the potential consequences of his actions.
The chapter revolves around Tom's reaction to the news of Alison's disappearance and subsequent discovery of her mutilated body in the river. As he watches the local news and awaits updates, he receives a distressing call from his girlfriend Daisy, who informs him about the gruesome details of Alison's death. The conversation leaves Tom with a sinking feeling, and he begins to wonder if he has unleashed a monster by associating with his friend Slug, who seems to be connected to the murders. Meanwhile, Tom's relationship with Daisy is put to the test as her father, the chief of police, forbids her from talking to Tom due to the ongoing investigation. The chapter ends with Tom feeling anxious and uncertain about the future, as he tries to navigate his relationships and keep his dark secrets hidden.
Tom's life continues to unravel as he deals with the aftermath of Alison's disappearance and murder. His mother returns home, and Tom must navigate a web of lies to conceal his father's absence, who he killed in a fit of rage. Tom's mother is suspicious, having called his father's workplace and discovered he never showed up, and she questions Tom about his whereabouts. Tom tries to maintain a calm demeanor, but his anxiety grows as he struggles to keep his secrets hidden. Meanwhile, the news coverage of Alison's murder continues, and Tom is obsessed with watching the footage, feeling a sense of guilt and unease. As his mother settles back into the house, Tom must contend with her suspicions and the looming threat of discovery, all while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy in his relationships with those around him.
Sydney confides in her friend Gretchen about her concerns regarding Tom's behavior, particularly his secret phone and reluctance to meet her friends. Gretchen offers to help Sydney gauge Tom's character by meeting him, but Sydney is hesitant due to Tom's commitment issues. Meanwhile, Gretchen's boyfriend Randy returns home with an ant farm, which causes tension between the couple. As Sydney leaves their apartment, she can't shake off the feeling that something Gretchen said earlier is bothering her, but she can't quite put her finger on what it is.
Sydney spends the evening alone, ordering Chinese food and reflecting on her conversation with Gretchen earlier that day. She recalls how Gretchen mentioned being at the museum the night before her exhibit opened, which contradicts her initial alibi for Randy, her boyfriend, on the night of Bonnie's murder. Sydney confronts Gretchen about the discrepancy, and Gretchen confesses to lying to the police to provide an alibi for Randy, who has a history of stalking and assault allegations. Gretchen begs Sydney not to reveal the truth, convinced that Randy is innocent and fearing it would ruin his reputation and their relationship. Sydney agrees not to tell, but is left uncertain and uneasy about her decision, wondering if she is making a mistake by not reporting Gretchen's lie to the police.
Tom's life becomes increasingly complicated as he tries to maintain a sense of normalcy while keeping his dark secrets hidden. His mother returns home and begins to suspect that something is amiss, particularly with regards to his father's absence. Tom's attempts to come up with convincing explanations for his father's disappearance are thwarted when his mother discovers inconsistencies in his stories. Meanwhile, Chief Driscoll, Daisy's father, arrives at Tom's house, adding to the tension and Tom's anxiety. As Tom navigates these challenging situations, his inner turmoil and darker thoughts continue to simmer, threatening to expose his true nature.
The police chief, Chief Driscoll, visits Tom's house to ask him questions about Alison's disappearance and murder. Tom's mother answers the door and is hesitant to let the chief in, but eventually allows him to speak with Tom in the living room. The chief mentions that he has heard rumors about Tom's involvement with Alison and another girl, Brandi, and wants to take a formal statement from Tom and his parents at the police station. Tom's mother is defensive and tries to protect Tom, but the chief's suspicions are clear. Just as the chief is about to leave, he notices a spot of dried blood on the sofa, which Tom's mother tries to pass off as paint. The chief asks to take a sample, but Tom's mother refuses, citing the need for a warrant. The chief leaves, but not before Tom's mother is visibly shaken and tells Tom to go to his room. Later, Tom sees his mother scrubbing at the base of the sofa, trying to remove the bloodstain.
Sydney is on a Zoom call with a new client, Orson Finley, who she soon discovers is actually Kevin, a man she previously went on a disastrous date with. Kevin apologizes for his past behavior and asks for a second chance, but Sydney declines. During the call, Kevin makes a comment about seeing her through a window, which unsettles Sydney and makes her wonder if he has been watching her. After the call, Sydney's doorbell rings, and she is hesitant to answer it, fearing it might be Kevin. However, it is her building's superintendent, Randy, who asks to come in and shows her something that leaves her shocked and alarmed.
Sydney is visited by Randy, her building's superintendent, who shows her a small diamond ring he intends to use to propose to her best friend Gretchen. Despite initial reservations about Randy's character, Sydney is touched by his sincerity and decides not to discourage him from proposing. Randy seeks Sydney's advice on how to propose, and she offers suggestions, including getting down on one knee. As Randy prepares to pop the question, Sydney is faced with a moral dilemma, remembering that Gretchen had lied about Randy's alibi for the night of Bonnie's murder, but ultimately decides not to reveal this information, prioritizing Gretchen's potential happiness over her own doubts about Randy's innocence.
Sydney visits Tom's apartment for a candlelit dinner, where she discovers a mouse stuck in a glue trap in the kitchen. Tom disposes of the mouse in a violent manner, which unsettles Sydney. Despite this, they enjoy their dinner and conversation, during which Tom learns about Sydney's encounter with Kevin, a man who had harassed her on a dating app. Tom becomes angry and suggests finding a way to track down Kevin, but the conversation is put aside as Sydney shares news about her friend Gretchen's upcoming wedding. Tom agrees to be Sydney's date to the wedding, which seems to be a significant step in their relationship. As the evening comes to a close, Sydney feels a strong attraction to Tom and begins to consider the possibility of a future together. However, Tom's enigmatic comments and behavior continue to raise questions about his past and his true nature.
Tom sneaks out of his house to meet Daisy, despite her father's warnings to stay away from him. He throws pebbles at her window to get her attention, and she agrees to meet him in secret. Daisy reveals that her father thinks Tom killed Alison and Brandi, and that Alison had called her the night she disappeared, saying she saw Tom and Slug putting something suspicious in their trunk. Tom denies any involvement and convinces Daisy to meet him again later that night. As they part ways, Tom's dark thoughts resurface, and he wonders what Daisy's blood would look like spilling out of her throat. Meanwhile, Slug appears, watching Tom from the shadows, adding to the sense of unease and foreboding.
Sydney's relationship with Tom takes a dark turn when she discovers a black scrunchie in his bedroom, similar to the one her murdered friend Bonnie used to wear. This revelation, combined with Tom's strange behavior and reactions to conversations about Bonnie's murder, leads Sydney to suspect that Tom might be involved in Bonnie's death. She finds a burner phone in Tom's dresser drawer, which he has been using to communicate with her, and discovers that all the calls and texts on the phone are from her. As she tries to gather evidence, such as preserving Tom's fingerprints on a water bottle, she is caught by Tom, who confronts her about her actions.
Sydney's suspicions about Tom's involvement in Bonnie's murder grow as she discovers a black scrunchie in his bedroom, similar to the one Bonnie used to wear. She tries to gather evidence, including preserving Tom's fingerprints on a water bottle, but is caught by Tom, who confronts her about her actions. Despite her fears, Tom lets her leave, offering to call her an Uber, and Sydney takes the opportunity to escape, kicking the scrunchie under the nightstand to avoid raising Tom's suspicions. As she flees the apartment, Sydney is convinced that Tom will harm her if he discovers her suspicions, and she can't shake off the feeling of being in grave danger.
Sydney is frantic and fearful after discovering a black scrunchie, similar to her murdered friend Bonnie's, in her boyfriend Tom's apartment. She suspects Tom might be involved in Bonnie's death and gathers evidence, including a water bottle with his fingerprints. She reaches out to her ex-boyfriend, Detective Jake, and asks him to meet her in person. When Jake arrives, Sydney shares her suspicions and hands over the water bottle for fingerprint analysis. Jake is shocked and concerned, revealing that Tom is a medical examiner he has met before and didn't seem like a suspect. Jake promises to run the fingerprints and have a patrol car watch over Sydney's building for protection. The conversation between Sydney and Jake becomes emotional, with Jake expressing regret over their past and a desire to make things right, leaving Sydney unsure of what he means.
Tom's conversation with Daisy is overheard by his best friend Slug, who is unhappy about Tom's involvement with her. Slug's behavior becomes increasingly menacing, and he implies that Daisy could be a problem, just like Alison was before she was murdered. Tom tries to reassure Slug that he will handle the situation, but Slug's response suggests that he may take matters into his own hands. The conversation ends with Slug storming off, leaving Tom feeling anxious and unsure about what his friend might do next. Meanwhile, Tom's relationship with Daisy is put to the test as he tries to navigate the complex web of secrets and lies that he has created.
Sydney's world is turned upside down when her ex-boyfriend, Detective Jake, informs her that the fingerprints on the water bottle she found in her boyfriend Tom's apartment match the unidentified prints found at the apartments of two murdered girls, including her friend Bonnie. Jake assures her that the police will try to bring Tom in for questioning, but warns that it may be tricky to get an arrest warrant without more evidence. Sydney is terrified that Tom will be released and come after her, but Jake reassures her that he will keep her safe. As she waits for updates, Sydney can't help but feel stupid for not seeing Tom's true nature and is grateful that her actions may lead to justice for Bonnie.
Sydney tries to distract herself from the situation with Tom by attending a yoga class, where she runs into her instructor Arlene, who warns her about Tom's dark aura. After the class, Sydney calls her ex-boyfriend Detective Jake to ask about Tom's status, and Jake informs her that Tom has been released due to a solid alibi for the night of Bonnie's murder. Despite this, Sydney is still unsure about Tom's innocence and Jake advises her to be cautious. As Sydney walks back to her building, she sees Tom sitting on the front steps, waiting for her.
Tom's anxiety and fear escalate as he tries to meet Daisy in secret, despite her father's warnings to stay away from him. He arrives late at the designated meeting spot, the Dairy Queen, and discovers that Daisy's car is already there, along with his friend Slug's Oldsmobile. As he searches the area, he calls out for Daisy but receives no response, and his panic grows. Upon rounding the corner of the building, he sees a lifeless body on the ground and someone standing over it, leading him to realize that he is too late to prevent a tragedy.
Sydney confronts Tom about her suspicions and decides to end their relationship due to his lies and evasive behavior. As she breaks up with him, her friends Gretchen and Randy arrive, and Tom's behavior becomes strange and aggressive, particularly towards Randy. After Randy intervenes and Tom leaves, Sydney goes to Gretchen and Randy's apartment for comfort and support. However, her relief is short-lived as she receives frantic text messages from Tom warning her that she is in danger, which she dismisses as overly dramatic and blocks his number. Unbeknownst to Sydney, Tom's warnings may be more than just empty threats, and her decision to ignore them may put her in grave peril.
Sydney spends the evening with her friends Gretchen and Randy, celebrating their engagement after Randy proposes to Gretchen. However, while using their bathroom, Sydney discovers a disturbing secret: a plastic bag filled with locks of long hair, each tied with a different-color ribbon, hidden in the toilet tank. This shocking find leads Sydney to realize that Randy, the building's superintendent and Gretchen's fiancé, is likely the serial killer responsible for the murders of Bonnie and other women.
Sydney discovers a disturbing secret in Randy's apartment, a plastic bag filled with locks of hair tied with different-color ribbons, hidden in the toilet tank, suggesting that Randy is the serial killer responsible for the murders of Bonnie and other women. She tries to act naturally to protect her friend Gretchen, who is engaged to Randy, until she can contact her ex-boyfriend Detective Jake. However, before she can escape or call for help, Tom, her former boyfriend, arrives at the apartment, banging on the door and demanding to be let in. Gretchen tries to calm him down, but Tom becomes increasingly agitated, shouting and threatening to call the police. As the situation escalates, Sydney searches for her phone to call for help, but it's nowhere to be found. Meanwhile, Randy falls asleep on the sofa, and Gretchen reveals that there are things about her that Sydney doesn't know, hinting at a potential dark secret. The chapter ends with Gretchen unlocking the door, leaving Sydney's fate uncertain.
Tom's world is turned upside down when he discovers that his girlfriend Daisy is a psychopath who has been murdering their classmates, including his best friend Slug. Daisy confesses to the crimes and threatens to kill Tom if he doesn't go along with her story and let Slug take the fall for the murders. Despite his love for Daisy, Tom decides to keep her secret to save himself, but also because he doesn't have the heart to hurt her. However, he realizes that their relationship is over and that he needs to distance himself from her to avoid being ruined by her darkness. Tom is forced to make a difficult decision and prioritize his own well-being over his love for Daisy, marking a turning point in his life.
Sydney's world is turned upside down as she discovers the dark truth about her friends and acquaintances. She had suspected Randy of being the serial killer, but it's actually Gretchen, who is revealed to be a psychopath. Gretchen, also known as Daisy, has been using Randy as a cover and has been killing women, including Bonnie. She has also been stalking Tom, who she claims to love, and has been killing women who get close to him. Tom is shocked and horrified by Gretchen's actions, but it's also revealed that he has a dark secret: he is fascinated by Sydney's bleeding disorder and has been watching her bleed. Gretchen offers to help Tom fulfill his twisted desires, and it's unclear if Tom will give in to her demands. Meanwhile, Sydney is trapped in the apartment with the two psychopaths and must find a way to escape before she becomes their next victim.
The chapter explores Tom's inner turmoil as he navigates his relationships and grapples with his dark past. He is currently dating Cindy, but his mind keeps wandering back to his former love, Daisy, who is now known as Gretchen. Tom discovers that Gretchen has seen the same horror movie he recently watched with Cindy, and he finds himself drawn to her again. He considers reaching out to her, but ultimately decides against it, opting to focus on his relationship with Cindy instead. However, when he tries to call Cindy, she doesn't answer, leaving Tom feeling concerned and unsure of what to do next. As the chapter progresses, it becomes clear that Tom's past and present are intertwined, and that his relationships with the women in his life are complex and potentially dangerous.
Sydney is being held captive by her friend Gretchen, who is revealed to be a psychopath and the serial killer responsible for the murders of several women, including Bonnie. Tom, who has been involved with Gretchen, arrives at the scene and initially seems to be in cahoots with her, but ultimately reveals that he has called the police and is trying to stop her. As the police sirens approach, Gretchen attempts to escape through a secret exit, and Tom agrees to go with her, but only on the condition that she does not harm Sydney. The two of them leave together, and Sydney is finally able to seek help. However, the chapter ends with a sense of unease, as Tom's response to Gretchen's question about killing those who "deserve" it suggests that he may still be capable of violence, and his decision to go with Gretchen raises questions about his own morality and loyalties.