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Chapter 12: A Birthday to Remember
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2024-11-17 17:37:21Related chapters
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 13: The Birthmark Revelation
The air was heavy in Clyde's stepmother, Eva's, gaudy office. Eva sat behind her desk, her features contorted in irritation. Sharon, Eva's daughter, paced back and forth, while Tony sat in the corner, tapping his fingers on the armrest of a chair."We can't just sit and watch Clyde and Violet take everything away from us!" Eva declared, her palm slapping the desk. "They're ruining everything we've built!"Tony leaned forward, a sly smirk tugging at his lips. "I know Violet is an imposter. That DNA test was edited.""Yes, Mum!" Sharon chimed in, her eyes gleaming with malice. "They must have tampered with the results, but we can't let them win."Eva sank back in her chair, her eyes narrowing in thought. "That reminds me the real Violet has a birthmark on her back. Tony, are you positive Violet doesn't?"Tony was silent for a moment, then shook his head. "No, she doesn't. When we were dating, I never saw anything like that."An evil smile curled Eva's lips. "That's it. We'll use that to
Last Updated : 2024-11-17In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 14: Boundaries Redefined
Violet sat in Clyde’s office, nervously fidgeting with the hem of her blouse. She still wasn’t entirely sure how she’d ended up in this position. Clyde had called her that morning, and before she could wrap her head around what was happening, he’d casually announced, “You’re my assistant now.”That sounded simple enough, but Violet wasn't naive. She knew this would be anything but an ordinary job with Clyde's stepmother and stepsister lurking around every corner. Things had started well enough: Violet had sorted Clyde's schedule, fielded a few calls, and even managed to impress him with her multitasking. Her moment of bliss was short-lived as his stepmother, Sharon, and stepsister, Eva, burst into the office. "Violet," Sharon said with honey-tinged venom, "why don't you fetch us some coffee? Two sugars for me and cream for Eva."Violet hesitated, looking over to Clyde, who was too busy on his laptop. "Didn't you hear her?" Eva snapped, flipping her hair. "She said coffee." Viol
Last Updated : 2024-11-25In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 15: The Trap
Clyde's stepmother, Sharon, sat pacing up and down in her excessively elaborate living room. The shining red varnish on her nails tapped against the champagne flute with rhythmic precision. Her mind took her through plots and subplots. Across her, on the plush velvet couch, sat her daughter Eva, who regarded her mother with a mixed expression of admiration and impatience.We've tried everything," Eva said, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "The DNA test, the birthmark, every angle we've used to discredit Violet has backfired. She's practically untouchable now." "Not untouchable," Sharon corrected tartly, her eyes narrowing. "We've just been going about it the wrong way. If we can't prove she's not Violet West, we'll ruin her another way. We'll take her down along with Clyde.Eva's eyes widened in interest. "What do you mean?"Sharon smiled-cold, calculated. "People already think it's suspicious how fast Clyde and Violet have become such close allies. Whispers have started regardin
Last Updated : 2024-11-25In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 16: The Return of Lily
The grand West mansion sizzled with anticipation when the sleek black car swung into its driveway. Clyde's ex-fiancée, Lily Harrington, got out, perfectly manicured fingers adjusting her designer sunglasses. She looked upon the estate with a calculating smirk; her sharp features gleamed brightly in a fusion of beauty and menace. She had returned to claim what she felt belonged to her, and she wasn't leaving without a fight.Sharon and Eva were already concocting their next move against Violet inside the mansion. When the butler announced Lily's arrival, both women exchanged knowing glances. "Perfect timing," Sharon said with an arching smile. "She's just the ally we need."Eva's eyes shone with mischievous intent. "Lily always managed to get a rise out of Clyde. If anyone can help us drive a wedge between him and Violet, she can." The ReunionLily sashayed into the grand living room, her heels clicking against the marble floor. Sharon and Eva rose to greet her, their expressions w
Last Updated : 2024-11-26In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 17: Unwelcome News
That evening, the West family mansion buzzed with increased activity. The dining hall had fresh white lilies on the table and a hint of gold on every decoration. It surely was something more important than just a family dinner. Violet sat quietly at one end of the table, her eyes straying to Clyde, who seemed uneasier by the minute. Across from him sat Lily Harrington, perfectly attired in a glossy black evening gown that matched the sumptuousness of the room. A serene smile covered an assured undertone of entitlement.Sharon and Eva, who sat quite close, exchanged knowing glances. They both seemed a bit too involved in the outcome of the evening. The patriarch Richard West entered last, claiming the space in the center. With his pleased smile, he sat at the head of the table and raised his glass to silence the people.Good evening, everyone," Richard began, his tone appropriately warm yet formal. "Tonight's dinner is more than just a family gathering. I have an important announcement
Last Updated : 2024-11-26In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 18: A Night of Deception
As the night wore on, the West mansion was wrapped in silent splendor. Antique paintings, elegant chandeliers, and faint creaks and whispers of evening breeze teased its halls. And Lily Harrington, never one to waste an opportunity, had made herself comfortable in one of the mansion's opulent guest rooms. Of course, she had planned this moment from the instant she'd arrived calculated attempt at solidifying her position as Clyde's fiancée, willing or not.Lily's Bold MoveWrapped in a clinging silk robe, Lily sashayed down the hall towards Clyde's room. Her bare feet made barely any sound on the plush carpet as she recited her lines in her head. She had decided that tonight would be the night to remind Clyde of what he should feel for her—or at least make him rethink his disobedience.She reached his door, hesitated a moment, and slipped inside. Clyde's room was in semi-darkness, with only the warm glow of a bedside lamp illuminating his firm profile as he sat at his desk, poring over
Last Updated : 2024-11-26In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 19: Early Morning Trap
Soft morning sun rays managed to drill their way into the West mansion, casting golden hues on its intricately carved hallways and rooms. In the kitchen, Violet was leaning against the counter, peeling an orange. She loved such rare moments of tranquility before the storm of activity that was sure to erupt soon.As she popped a slice into her mouth, Sharon entered, her steps deliberate, her smile overly pleasant. Violet looked up, slightly surprised."Good morning, Violet," Sharon greeted, her tone unusually sweet."Good morning, Mrs. West," Violet returned with a polite greeting, sensing something was off.Sharon walked over to the counter, picking up a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. "Here, have some juice. It's good to start the day with something refreshing."Violet demurred but took the glass, considering it a friendly gesture. After a few sips, Violet was sure Sharon kept looking at her.Sharon clapped her hands together, simulating urgency. "Oh, by the way, Violet, one
Last Updated : 2024-11-27In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 20: A Friend's Revelation
The early afternoon sun poured through the tall windows of the West mansion as Violet stood in her room, sorting through her things. She had spent the morning mulling over Richard's words, his offer still fresh in her mind had told her she could go back to her acting career if being Clyde's assistant was too much for her. While she was grateful for it, it seemed a confirmation of some sort that her time in this house was almost over.It was with a dress folded into her suitcase that the tapping on the door came."Come on in," Violet called.The door creaked open, and there he was, framed in the doorway and making the gloomy room bright. "Violet! I miss you!""Olivia!" Violet exclaimed, hurrying to embrace her friend.Memories StirringThe two women hugged tight, and Olivia stepped back, her gaze wandering to the large room. She wrinkled her brow slightly. "It's weird, but I feel like I've been here before."Violet cocked an eyebrow. "Really? Perhaps you have been to a party here befor
Last Updated : 2024-11-27
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In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 29: Tony bad intentions
The evening air was cool as Violet strolled down the quiet street, lost in thought. Her visit with Olivia earlier had lifted her spirits, but everything else weighed heavily upon her. She decided to take a longer route home, enjoying the solitude and the rare peace it brought her.Unbeknownst to her, there were shadows lurking nearby. Three men, in dark clothes, waited in the alley just ahead. They exchanged glances, their smirks an outward expression of their malicious intentions."Tony said to make it quick," one of them grumbled, adjusting his grip on a length of metal rod.An AmbushShe turned the corner, and the men stepped out, blocking her path. She froze. Her heart pounded as the lead man sneered.Well, look who's all dressed up and fancy," he sneered; the venom in his voice was unmistakable. "Tony sends his regards."Violet's eyes widened in surprise at the mention of her ex-boyfriend. "Tony? What does he want?" she asked, attempting to keep her voice from shaking despite the
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 28: A Claim Too Far
Violet stared at the woman, her body tense, her breathing shallow. The night was colder now, the air heavy with uncertainty. The woman stepped closer, her features clearer under the dim glow of the streetlamp. Her eyes were sharp, and her face was etched with a life hard-lived.I'm your mother, Violet," the woman said quietly, a sad edge to her tone. "I've been looking for you for years."Violet stepped backward, her instincts warning her not to believe too quickly. "My mother?" she repeated, doubt lacing her voice. "That's impossible. My mother. she." Her words trailed off, memories of her childhood pain flashing before her eyes.The woman's face softened, as if she knew Violet was unsure. "I know this is a lot to believe, but it's true. Your father, he never wanted you to know about me. He took you from me when you were just a baby."Violet's chest tightened. "And now you expect me to believe you? After all these years, you just show up and claim to be my mother? Why now?The woman'
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 27: Whispers of Betrayal
The grand lounge of a high-end hotel was the place where Sharon and Eva had decided to hold their secret meeting. The air was thick with the smell of leather and aged bourbon, and the low hum of conversation lent an air of secrecy to the surroundings. Around a polished table, a group of the company's prominent shareholders sat, each looking curious yet wary.Sharon, in a navy blue suit that commanded respect and oozed authority, stood at the head, with a serene yet scheming smile on her face. Eva sat beside her, composed and sanguine, but inside her heart bubbled with excitement."Thank you all for coming," Sharon began, her voice warm yet calculated. "We're here today because we're concerned about the future of West Enterprises.A silver-haired man at the table, Mr. Langston, leaned forward. "Concerned? What do you mean, Sharon? Richard and Clyde have been running things quite smoothly."Sharon gave a soft, almost pitying smile. "That's the perception, yes. But the truth is far more
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 26: A Day Out with Jacob
The morning sun burst through the curtains of Violet's room in ribbons of gold, cast upon the walls. Violet stood at the window, sipping her tea, when a knock on the door jolted her out of her reverie. Placing the cup down, she walked over and opened the door to find Jacob standing in the doorway, his usual charming smile illuminating his face."Good morning, Violet," he said, a playful lilt in his voice. "I hope I'm not disturbing you.""Jacob?" she said, surprised. "What brings you here so early?""I figured you could use a break," he replied. "How about some shopping? My treat."Violet hesitated. It had been a while since she'd gone anywhere for herself. Still, Jacob's enthusiasm was contagious, and before she knew it, she was nodding."Alright," she said with a small smile. "Give me a few minutes to get ready."Jacob drove them to the city in his sleek car, the atmosphere light and easy. He hummed along to the radio as Violet gazed out the window, the scenery shifting from quiet s
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 25: A Visit to the Past
The night was still, with the moon reflecting its silvery light upon the West mansion. Violet stood at her room door, her heart pounding against her chest. The air seemed thick with secrets, and her restless mind had been hounded by memories of her childhood. She had to go back-to that very town where she grew up and everything started.She pulled a thin cardigan over her shoulders, grabbed her small purse, and crept out of her room. Her footsteps were light against the polished floors as she tiptoed past the other rooms, careful not to wake anyone. Her breathing was shallow, her nerves taut like a string ready to snap.Unbeknownst to Violet, a pair of sharp eyes had followed her every movement. Eva had grown ever suspicious with the secrecy of her friend and thus had kept tabs on her. She watched as Violet slipped out the side door and disappeared into the cool night.Eva smirked. "What are you up to, little miss perfect?" she whispered low. She took her coat and quietly followed, he
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 24: Too Intimate for Siblings
Two weeks had passed since Sharon's accident, and the West household had adjusted to an uncomfortable routine. Sharon was still trying to regain her memory, which irritated Eva. Every day, Eva sat by her mother, guiding her, eager to put together the pieces of Sharon's memories.The air was thick in Sharon's room as Eva sat beside her bed, holding a glass of water. "Mom, think harder," she said. "You said you were going to show Dad something important before your accident. Try to remember what it was.Sharon furrowed her brows, her fingers clutching the bedsheet tightly. "I don't know, Eva," she said, her voice laced with frustration. "It's all a blur. I remember walking… the pool… and then nothing."Eva sighed and stood, pacing the room. "Mom, you have to try harder. This isn't just about us anymore. Violet and Clyde… they're taking over everything. We need to stop them."Later that evening, as Sharon lay alone in her room, fragments of her past began to resurface, like pieces of a b
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 23: Weight of Regret
Clyde sat alone in the dimly lit study, the room heavy with the silence that had become his constant companion. His fingers traced the edge of an old photograph, one that had been tucked away in a drawer for years. It was a picture of him and his real sister, the sister he hadn't seen since that fateful day when she disappeared from his life.His heart ached as he stared at the photograph, a haunting reminder of what had been lost. The girl in the picture was so young, her eyes filled with innocence and hope—eyes now lost to him, vanished into the depths of time and circumstance.Clyde could still remember that day with painful clarity. It had been a few months before his mother's death, and the family had been at a turmoil. He had been so wrapped up in his own little world, too focused on his own problems to notice the cracks forming in their home. But his sister, she saw it all-the cracks between their parents, tension in the air, changes creeping in unnoticed by everyone else.Her
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 22 Eva returns
Eva clicked her heels sharply against the shiny floor as she strutted her stuff through the private lounge of the airport and finally finished her call. The business trip had gone better than expected, sealing deals that boosted her reputation and, more importantly, her control within the company. Confident and satisfied, she looked forward to catching up on the drama that no doubt had unfolded back home.As her driver pulled up to the mansion, a silence Eva was unfamiliar with greeted her. Generally, the household buzzed in activity and whispers; today, it was subdued. Eva's brows furrowed as she entered the grand foyer, knowing full well in her instincts that something was off.A maid approached her hesitantly, her hands clasped nervously. "Welcome back, Miss Eva. Hope your trip went well."It was fine," Eva replied briefly, shrugging off her coat. "What's going on here? It's too quiet."The maid hesitated, looking around as if she was unsure whether to say anything. "It's about Mrs
In The Smoke-Filled Room Chapter 21: An Unwelcome Arrangement
The dining room of the West family buzzed with conversation, where Violet had sat quietly with her hands folded in her lap. He had just sprung on her that her future husband's family would visit later in the evening, and it had made Violet agree. But with a knot deep down, her mind kept up with better reasoning that it was her necessary step to enter their family.Across the table, Clyde sat rigidly, his jaw clenched as his gaze remained fixed on Violet. Every word she had spoken earlier about accepting the marriage arrangements echoed in his mind, fueling a wave of anger and pain he could barely suppress.“I’ll do it,” Violet had said earlier, her voice steady but devoid of enthusiasm. “If this is best for the family, I’ll accept the marriage arrangements.”Richard beamed, seemingly pleased. "Excellent, Violet. This will strengthen the West name and see that you are well taken care of."Clyde had barely been able to contain himself at the time. The thought of Violet marrying another
