Rick Payne is a Professor of Occult Sciences and the Paranormal at Rockland University who is a born sceptic and believes only in hard evidence, i.e. Scientific Data.
He has a tendency for being somewhat abrasive at times but is well intentioned. Melinda seeks his help in fighting the mysterious Wide Brimmed Hat Man (aka Romano), a dark spirit who while alive inspired his followers to commit suicide and now seeks to turn Melinda to the Darkness or destroy her.
As Payne assists Melinda in her quest to defeat Romano, Payne falls under the baleful glare of the dark spirits. Upon entering his office, he finds the walls plastered with pictures and drawings which he tells Melinda about, saying, "Basically, it's a warning. It's a dark motif favored by the Incans, 'Back off or die' being the fundamental message."
He falls under the spell of Melinda's charm, assisting her time and time again in fighting the dark powers. As a result, they form a deep friendship. Payne finally discoveres Melinda's gift after he discoveres that he is being haunted by his deceased wife, Kate who died in a construction accident. When Payne finds out that Kate was unfaithful to him while alive, he realizes he cannot forgive her and she remains earthbound. With Melinda's help and guidence, Rick finally forgives Kate and she forgives herself, allowing her to cross over into the light at last. Meanwhile, Rick's feelings for Melinda deepen into an unrequited love.
Rick leaves Grandview and departs for the Himalayas on a geological expedition.