Cassie and James sit together in Cassie's apartment studying for an upcoming final exam in their shared class at university. Cassie is stressed out and worries about failing, while James is simply distracted by his attractive study partner. James comforts Cassie, encouraging her to take a break. He shuts the book and moves in close to her while she thanks him for helping her out through the semester. Misreading the moment, James leans in to kiss her but Cassie pulls away quickly and tells him she is not interested in him romantically. James becomes embarrassed and upset, questioning her motives throughout the semester. Cassie apologizes but explains that she was focused on her academics and didn't mean to lead him on. James is not comforted at her attempts to soften the blow of rejection. He stands up and moves to leave.
Cassie reminds James that he left his textbook behind. She grabs it from the couch and hands it over to him, thanking him for bringing it. James stares at her with an odd look as he takes the book, then swings it hard against her head knocking Cassie to the floor. James stands over her and rolls her over while looking down at her. Cassie wakes up groaning as she recovers from the blow. James puts a hand around her neck and squeezes hard while she struggles against him. Cassie smacks her hands against James, pulling at his arms and trying to break free. He smiles down at her while he squeezes hard. Her feet slide against the floor as she tries to get leverage but can't manage to get up. James holds the hardcover textbook in his other hand and swings it down on Cassie's face, knocking her out. He drops the book on the floor and hoists Cassie up under the arms and lifts her up onto the couch.
Cassie regains consciousness and immediately begins to struggle against James. She hits at him and tries to break free, pleading with him to stop. He restrains her, grabbing her neck with both hands and squeezing tight. Cassie gasps for air and pushes hard against him but he maintains his strong grip. Cassie fights back, kicking her legs high and trying to break out of the hold. She claws at James trying to get him off but he continues holding on with all his strength. He pushes her down into the couch as he maintains the squeeze unrelentingly. Cassie twists and turns her body but is unable to escape Her eyes roll back and her mouth opens wide gasping for air. But James continues to hold on tight and eventually Cassie goes limp in his grasp. James holds on for a few long moments then lets go of her neck revealing a dark bruise from his grip. He looks at her body then lifts her up towards him, holding her in a soft embrace and planting kisses on her lips while her eyes remain open and staring. James pushes her back down on the couch and continues to kiss her while brushing the hair from her face. His hand touches the open wound on her head and it takes him out of the moment. He sees what he has done and rushes out of the room to wash his hands, leaving Cassie's body laid on the couch.