Middle Of The Night

The scene commences with Emily (portrayed by Nikole Nash), sharing a car ride with her closest friend, Val (played by Alexia Anders). Val is returning to her roots and is en route to Emily's place for a stayover. When Emily brings up the topic of her domineering stepbrother Ethan, her demeanor inexplicably turns defensive. Upon hearing that Ethan will be home that weekend, Val is taken aback, as she was under the impression he was out of town. She forces a smile, masking a tinge of anxiety. CUT TO TITLE Shortly after, Emily guides Val to her bedroom. She informs Val that they've run out of spare rooms since Ethan's return, so Val would have to share the bed with her. Val jests that it doesn't bother her, citing their countless childhood sleepovers as precedent. Suddenly, the front door opens and shuts. Emily stiffens noticeably yet subtly. She swiftly checks her reflection, ensuring her appearance is presentable. Val observes this with a skeptical glance. Ethan's voice echoes, demanding Emily's whereabouts. She responds that she's in her bedroom. Soon after, Ethan (portrayed by Michael Swayze) enters the room. His interaction with Emily reveals his manipulative nature, which Val notices with suspicion. Once Ethan exits, an uncomfortable silence ensues as Emily assists Val in unpacking. Emily maintains a forced, nearly artificial smile, and Val scrutinizes her closely. Val later expresses her doubts to Emily, asserting that Ethan hasn't truly changed and that he thrives on asserting control over Emily. Emily defends Ethan once again. Val finally addresses the strange atmosphere she's sensed since her arrival, but Emily denies any odd occurrences. Val's discomfort intensifies when she catches Ethan spying on her as she applies lotion, nude in the bedroom. She informs Emily, yet Emily continues to justify Ethan's actions. Later that night, Val awakens from her slumber to find Ethan in bed with her. She is further shocked and repulsed to discover Emily servicing Ethan orally. Val attempts to persuade Emily to stop, but Emily insists that her actions are her own choice and tries to coax Val to join. Val has undoubtedly landed in a perverse predicament, but will she comply with her best friend's request?