In the living room, Winona and the others waited for Yvette to apologize. Just as Nellie was about to intervene, Yvette smiled. Winona admitted Yvette was stunning. Zeke, her half-brother, felt his heart race. He’d lived a playboy lifestyle since his teens, secretly enjoying the company of students, models, young stars, and escorts—anyone who intrigued him. He believed he could win them with money. The thought of Yvette, and the thrill of a forbidden romance, was especially enticing. Seeing her vulnerable, he thought a little kindness would make her emotional and grateful.
Confident in his charm, Zeke gazed at Yvette's profile, admiring her eyelashes. Yvette's smile hinted at retribution, but the Chambers family remained unaware. Yvette calmly pulled an old-fashioned black phone from her pocket. They couldn't identify the brand, but assumed it was inexpensive.
Suddenly, Winona's malicious voice filled the room: "Your mother is dead. Why even come back? This house has no place for you."
The recording played, shocking everyone. Winona froze. The servants were stunned; they hadn't expected such cruelty from the usually gentle Winona. The recording revealed a chilling plot to set Yvette up. Zachary, incredulous, was about to slap Winona, but someone intervened.
Still dazed, Winona received a slap and screamed. The attacker? Her mother, Nellie. Nellie's fury, and Zachary's rage, jolted Winona back to reality. "What have I done? I've been recorded!"
Nellie regretted hitting Winona but knew she needed to act. The slap cooled Zachary's anger. Nellie scolded Winona: "Haven't I taught you better? I know you're scared Yvette will take your father's love, but you've gone too far. She's your sister, and she's been through so much. How can jealousy make you treat her like this?"
Zachary's expression softened. Nellie then apologized to Yvette: "Winona was confused. You can punish her. I'm to blame for not raising her better. I'm sorry. Can you accept my apology?"
Yvette lifted her gaze, arrogance evident. "You think I'm easy to push around?"
Nellie's expression fell. "No, Yvette, that's not what I meant. I'll make it right."
Nellie turned to Winona. Understanding, Winona cried, "I'm so sorry, Yvette. I shouldn't have let my jealousy get the best of me. I was scared you'd take Dad's love." She glanced nervously at Zachary.
Zachary hesitated. He knew Yvette's fiery personality, and intervening might worsen the situation. Winona had messed up, and Yvette deserved to teach her a lesson.
Seeing Zachary's inaction, Winona continued, "Yvette, if you're still angry, I'll stand here until you forgive me."