Fresh-faced Lou Simms seems like a naïve Hollywood newbie when she starts interning for studio executive Joyce Holt. Joyce struggles with infertility and is simultaneously in the midst of a power struggle with the movie studio’s owner, a predatory dinosaur who’s as tightfisted as he is misogynous. Motivated by a dark obsession with Holt, Lou is ready and willing to do whatever it takes to help her new boss, and quickly proves herself capable of holding her own.

Lou finds herself on the outs, until her after-hours overachieving yields fruitful results. A highly anticipated transfer of power doesn’t go as planned. As Lou moves up in the world, things don’t go as well for her co-workers.

Lou gets a promotion in the wake of tragedy, and Travis grows suspicious of her. The Fountain Pictures executives exchange barbs. The dark side of Lou’s ambition begins to rear its head; meanwhile, Joyce’s dreams of motherhood hang in the balance.

Facing devastating personal losses, a vulnerable Joyce relies on Lou’s support.They escape to Malibu, where Lou takes Joyce’s mind off her personal and professional struggles by rolling with the waves and exploring their sexuality. Back at the office, Lou continues making herself indispensable by devious means.

Lou masterminds an unbreakable bond between Joyce and herself. Joyce continues to fight for her marriage and motherhood, simultaneously struggling with the archaic views of Fountain Pictures’ owner. Meanwhile, Travis’ dogged determination to dig into Lou’s past uncovers dark secrets and even darkerdeeds.

The revelation of her deception and obsession sends Lou into a tailspin. Lou recalls her tragic upbringing, while Joyce distances herself from the controversy, focusing on her career. Acts of desperation ensue.