After a Call from a Stranger, a Woman’s Recent Love Story Turns Into a Drama – Story of the Day

“All men are liars.” With these words, Violet ended her radio program. Her life experiences and the countless stories she heard from her listeners had proven it. But, a date with a coworker made her question her belief. After a call from a stranger, she was convinced she had been right all along.

Violet sat comfortably in her chair, leaning slightly toward the microphone in the cozy, dimly lit studio of a local radio station.

The equipment’s soft hum and the faint buzz of the control board’s lights cast a warm, golden glow across the room.

Opposite her was James, her co-host, his posture more relaxed, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table as they listened to the voice crackling through the speakers.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“He’s pulling away from me…” Susan’s voice trembled, and a muffled sob came through.

“I don’t know what to do. We barely talk anymore. I never thought I’d turn to a radio show for advice, but I don’t have anyone else who’ll listen.”

Violet adjusted her headphones, her expression softening.

“Don’t worry, Suzy, right? That’s your name?”

Her voice was calm, like the steady rhythm of a heartbeat, offering comfort through the static.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Yes, it’s Susan,” the caller confirmed, her breath hitching.

“Well, Suzy, that’s why we have this segment—to help people like you with relationship struggles. Thank you for sharing your story. It’s brave of you.”

Susan hesitated before asking, “So… what do you think I should do, Violet?”

Violet straightened in her chair, her tone sharp yet controlled.

“The same thing I always say—forget him. He’s either cheating on you or stringing you along. Either way, you deserve better.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

James’s head snapped up, and he raised an eyebrow at her.

“Violet, maybe we shouldn’t jump to conclusions. It could be anything—stress at work, personal issues. Maybe he doesn’t know how to communicate.”

Violet gave him a sidelong glance.

“Or maybe he has a mistress,” she said dryly. “Let’s not sugarcoat it. All men are liars.”

The tension hung for a moment, but Violet quickly turned back to the microphone, her professional smile firmly in place.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Thanks for tuning in, folks. Enjoy the next song.” She flipped the switch, cutting their microphones.

Music filled the studio, and Violet leaned back, the faintest smirk playing on her lips.

James, however, shook his head slightly, unsure whether to push back or let it slide.

The studio lights dimmed slightly as the end-of-shift silence settled over the room.

Violet gathered her things—her notebook, headphones, and an oversized scarf she draped over her shoulder.

She moved with her usual efficiency, but her mind was already on the comfort of home and a hot cup of tea.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

James lingered by the console, shifting his weight from one foot to the other.

His usual easygoing demeanor seemed absent, replaced by a noticeable nervousness. Finally, he stepped closer, clearing his throat.

“You were ruthless with men today, as usual,” he said, flashing her a sheepish grin. His attempt at humor was met with a raised eyebrow.

Violet paused and glanced at him.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“You’ve been here six months, James,” she replied flatly. “I thought you’d have figured out by now what our audience expects.”

“So, it’s just for ratings, then?” James asked, tilting his head.

“You don’t actually believe all that?”

Violet shrugged, her expression unreadable.

“I never said that. What do you want, James? I was about to head home.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

James rubbed the back of his neck, looking anywhere but at her. “Well, uh… I’ve been meaning to ask…” His words trailed off as his confidence wavered.

“Spit it out,” Violet said, smirking slightly, amused by his awkwardness. “Talking is supposed to be your job.”

He chuckled nervously, his face flushing. “Would you, um… like to go on a date with me?”

“A date?” Violet blinked, caught off guard. “Like a date-date?”

“Yes. Exactly. There’s a great place nearby I think you’d like.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Violet hesitated, shifting her bag on her shoulder. “James, you know I’m not big on dating.”

“Because you think all men are liars, right?” James teased. His tone was light but daring. “Let me prove that not all of us are that bad. Some of us are mostly honest.”

“Mostly?” Violet repeated, laughing despite herself. “Fine. But don’t expect miracles.”

“That’s good enough for me,” James said, his grin widening as he grabbed his coat.

The small restaurant felt like a hidden gem, the kind of place you’d never stumble upon unless someone showed you.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Candlelight flickered on every table, casting warm, golden hues across the room while the smooth notes of live jazz wove through the air.

The musicians, tucked into a corner, played as though they were part of the room’s heartbeat, their gentle melodies making the space feel alive yet soothing.

James pulled out a chair for Violet, his movements natural, unforced. Violet raised an eyebrow but couldn’t help a small smile as she sat down.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Chivalry isn’t dead, I see,” she teased.

“Well, I try,” James said with a grin, taking his seat across from her.

Violet glanced around, taking in the cozy surroundings.

“This place is charming,” she admitted. “I didn’t know spots like this still existed.”

“Judging by that look on your face, you don’t go to places like this often,” James said, leaning forward slightly, his tone playful.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I don’t go on dates often, that’s for sure,” Violet replied, smoothing the napkin on her lap.

“Really? Hard to believe. A radio host and such a beauty? You must have admirers.”

Violet’s cheeks turned pink, and she waved him off.

“Stop it. I used to date, but I gave it up a long time ago. It always felt like a waste of time.”

James tilted his head, curiosity flickering in his eyes. “Why’s that?”

Violet hesitated before answering.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“After dealing with betrayal, lies, and hearing all those stories on the show… It’s hard to believe in love anymore.”

James’s expression softened.

“Well,” he said gently, “not all of us are so bad.”

“Every man says that,” Violet sighed, leaning back in her chair.

James chuckled but didn’t push further. Instead, he started sharing a story about his childhood, painting vivid pictures of his clumsy adventures that left Violet laughing.

The conversation shifted naturally from funny anecdotes to deeper reflections about their lives.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Violet found herself relaxing in a way she hadn’t expected, her guard lowering with each shared laugh.

“See?” James said, grinning as she wiped away tears of laughter. “Not so bad spending time with me, is it?”

“Don’t get ahead of yourself,” Violet replied, though her smile betrayed her words.

James stood, gesturing toward the restroom. “I’ll be right back. But I want to hear the rest of your story about the bird when I get back.”

“Hurry up, or I’ll forget it,” Violet called after him, still chuckling as she sipped her water.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Her phone buzzed on the table, interrupting her thoughts.

She frowned at the unfamiliar number and hesitated, but curiosity got the better of her.

“Hello?” she answered.

“Hi, this is Jane,” a hesitant voice said on the other end.

“Sorry to call so late, but James hasn’t come home, and your number was the only one I could find. Is he with you?”

“Jane?” Violet asked, her voice suddenly tight. “Are you his sister?”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Sister? No, I’m his girlfriend,” Jane replied sharply, the words cutting through the air like a knife.

Violet froze, the warmth of the evening draining away. Her heart pounded as Jane’s words echoed in her ears.

Without responding, she hung up, her hands trembling.

She grabbed her bag, scarf, and coat and walked briskly out of the restaurant, leaving behind the candlelight, the music, and the man she thought might have been different.

The next day at the radio station, Violet entered the studio with her usual brisk stride, her scarf loosely draped around her neck.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Her expression, however, was anything but usual. It was cold, distant—like a door slammed shut.

She avoided eye contact with James, who was already at the control board, adjusting levels and humming softly to himself.

“Hey, Violet,” James called out, his voice light. He looked up with a smile, but it faltered when she breezed past him without so much as a glance.

“I was worried about you last night. You left so suddenly. I tried calling you—”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I’m fine,” Violet cut in, her tone sharp and clipped. She didn’t stop moving, setting her bag down with deliberate force.

James frowned, taking a cautious step toward her.

“Did I do something wrong?” he asked hesitantly, his voice quieter now.

“You tell me,” she snapped, finally meeting his eyes, her glare icy. “Or maybe ask Jane.”

The name hit him like a slap, and his brow furrowed. “Jane? How do you know her?”

“Your girlfriend called me,” she said icily. “She wanted to know when you’d be home. Don’t worry—I didn’t keep you too long.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Violet, wait—” James started, his hands raised as if to stop the invisible storm brewing between them.

“One more word,” Violet interrupted, her voice cutting through the room like a blade, “and you’ll be looking for a new job.”

James froze, his mouth half-open, then closed it. He nodded stiffly and returned to his seat, his shoulders slumping slightly.

The day dragged on in frosty silence.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

By mid-afternoon, Violet noticed something strange. James didn’t look like a man caught in a lie; he looked genuinely upset.

His face was pale, his expression distant, as if the weight of the world sat on his shoulders.

Curiosity gnawed at her. By the end of the day, she found herself following him as he left the building.

Near the station’s entrance, a young woman stood waiting. Her arms were crossed, her expression a mix of anger and desperation.

“James! We need to talk!” the woman shouted, stepping closer.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

James stopped abruptly and sighed. “We’ve got nothing to talk about, Jane,” he said, his voice firm but weary. “I’ve told you before—we’re done. It has been months! Why won’t you let it go already!?”

“But I love you! No one else will ever love you the way I do! Even that coworker of yours!” Jane cried, her voice breaking.

“Enough!” James snapped. “Because of the lies you told her, Violet won’t even look at me. I’ve had it, Jane. Stay out of my life.”

Jane burst into tears, her shoulders shaking as she pleaded one last time, but James didn’t budge.

Finally, she climbed into her car and drove away, leaving James standing alone. He sank onto the building’s steps, burying his face in his hands.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Violet hesitated before stepping forward. “James…” she said quietly. “I heard everything.”

He looked up, his eyes tired but calm. “Now you know what I was trying to explain,” he said.

“I’m sorry,” Violet said softly, her voice filled with genuine regret. “But can you blame me for assuming the worst?”

“No. But not only men can lie as you can see.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

She managed a faint smile, her defenses softening.

“Maybe not. Should we give this another try?”

James straightened, a hint of hope returning to his face.

“Why not?” he replied, a small grin tugging at his lips. “After all, tonight’s already been full of surprises.”

Tell us what you think about this story, and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.

If you enjoyed this story, read this one: Every year, Sarah had to devise a new excuse to explain to her family why they wouldn’t be visiting. “I won’t miss a single-family holiday because of your parents!” her husband Peter always insisted. But this time, Sarah stood her ground and defended her family values.

This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.

My Brother Makes Our Grandma Do Everything around the House — When I Saw Her Washing the Floors I Taught Him a Lesson

My Brother Makes Our Grandma Do Everything around the House — When I Saw Her Washing the Floors I Taught Him a Lesson

When Mike’s careless attitude toward his elderly grandmother reaches a boiling point, his sister devises a cunning plan to teach him a lesson. What starts as a simple party quickly unravels, exposing family tensions and leaving Mike humiliated in front of friends and family.

Hi! My name’s Mia, and here’s my story. My grandma moved into my brother’s house a few months ago after hers was sold. She needed money for medical bills, and living with him seemed like a great idea. She never complained about it, and I thought they were having a great time until I came to visit…

Mia cooks as her grandmother does the dishes | Source: Midjourney

Mia cooks as her grandmother does the dishes | Source: Midjourney

During my first week there, I saw my grandma cook, clean, do laundry, and tend to the yard day after day. Not once did my brother lift a finger to help. Despite Granny’s back problems, he told her to do more and more with this bored, entitled tone.

“Granny, can you iron my shirts?” he would call out from the living room.

“Sure, dear,” she would reply, forcing a smile.

Grandmother mowes the lawn | Source: Midjourney

Grandmother mowes the lawn | Source: Midjourney

“Granny, the yard needs mowing,” he would say while playing video games.

“Of course, I’ll get to it,” she would answer, wincing as she stood up.

One afternoon, I found her mopping the floors. Her hands were red and dry, with knuckles sticking through pale skin. She moved slowly, pain evident in every step. That’s when I broke down and decided I couldn’t stay quiet any longer.

Mia confronts her grandma | Source: Midjourney

Mia confronts her grandma | Source: Midjourney

“Grandma, why are you doing all this?” I asked, my voice trembling with anger. “You should be resting!”

She looked up, tired eyes meeting mine. “He needs help, dear. He’s busy with work.”

“Busy?!” I exploded. “He’s playing video games all day! This is not fair!”

Grandma sighed. “I don’t mind. It’s just a little work.”

Mike plays video games | Source: Midjourney

Mike plays video games | Source: Midjourney

But it wasn’t just a little work. It was too much for anyone, let alone an elderly woman with health issues. I knew I had to do something. I decided to organize a party, but not just any party. This would be a party with a twist.

The relationship between my brother and me had always been complicated. Growing up, Mike was the golden child, the one who could do no wrong.

Mike as a child | Source: Midjourney

Mike as a child | Source: Midjourney

He was a star athlete in high school, always surrounded by friends and admiration. I, on the other hand, was the quiet, bookish one. I didn’t mind staying out of the spotlight, but it did create a rift between us.

Our parents adored Mike and doted on him, often overlooking his flaws. They saw him as ambitious and driven, while I was seen as the responsible one.

I expected him to help out more around the house. This dynamic followed us into adulthood. When Grandma moved in, I hoped Mike would finally step up and take responsibility.

Mike laughs it off | Source: Midjourney

Mike laughs it off | Source: Midjourney

“Mike, can you at least help Grandma with the groceries?” I had asked one day when I called to check in.

He had laughed. “She’s fine, sis. She likes to stay busy.”

“She’s not a maid,” I had snapped back, frustration boiling over.

“Don’t be so dramatic,” he had replied dismissively.

The struggling grandma | Source: Midjourney

The struggling grandma | Source: Midjourney

Seeing Grandma now, struggling and in pain, I felt a mix of anger and sadness. Mike had always been self-centered, but this was a new low. I couldn’t stand by and watch any longer.

One evening, I sat down with Grandma after dinner. “Granny, you need to rest. You can’t keep doing all this.”

She patted my hand. “I’ll be fine, sweetie. I’ve handled worse.”

Mia talks to her grandma | Source: Midjourney

Mia talks to her grandma | Source: Midjourney

“But you shouldn’t have to,” I insisted. “Mike needs to learn to help out. This isn’t fair to you.”

She sighed, looking weary. “He’s just used to it. He’s always been like this.”

I shook my head. “That doesn’t make it right.”

As I thought about what to do, an idea formed in my mind. It was bold, maybe even a bit risky, but I knew it had to be done. Mike needed a wake-up call, and I was just the person to give it to him. He couldn’t keep getting away with treating Grandma like this. It was time for a change.

Mia has an idea | Source: Midjourney

Mia has an idea | Source: Midjourney

The plan started to take shape in my mind. I would organize a surprise for Mike, something that would make him see just how much work Grandma was doing. He needed to understand the weight of responsibility and the value of family. And I was determined to make sure he learned his lesson.

On her last day of staying there, I asked my brother Mike for a small party. He agreed, thinking it would be a good way to see old friends.

The party was planned for the evening before I left. Our high school friends, his football team, and even some nostalgic teachers were invited for a BBQ and a celebration.

Party invitation | Source: Midjourney

Party invitation | Source: Midjourney

As the time when everyone was supposed to arrive approached, I got busy with my plan. I yanked all of Mike’s clothes into the laundry bin and dirtied them with ketchup and dirt. He wouldn’t have anything clean to wear.

Next, I put clean dishes in the sink and covered them with soap and ketchup. I made sure to mess up everything Grandma had been doing for him all this time.

Mike was lounging on the couch, oblivious. “Hey, sis, can you get me a beer?” he called out.

Mia dirties the dishes | Source: Midjourney

Mia dirties the dishes | Source: Midjourney

I rolled my eyes. “Sure, Mike,” I said sweetly. I handed him the beer, knowing chaos was about to unfold.

As the first guests started to arrive, Mike finally noticed the mess. “What the heck happened here?” he muttered, looking around the kitchen. “Grandma, did you forget to clean up?”

Grandma, who was resting in the living room, looked confused. “I’m sorry, dear. I must have missed it.”

Mike sees his dirty laundry | Source: Midjourney

Mike sees his dirty laundry | Source: Midjourney

Mike huffed and went to the laundry room. He opened the bin and saw his clothes stained and dirty. “Seriously?” he grumbled. “I have nothing to wear!”

He stormed back into the kitchen, where I was setting out snacks. “What’s going on, sis? Why is everything a mess?” he demanded.

I shrugged. “I don’t know, Mike. Maybe you should ask Grandma.”

Mike tries to tidy up his house | Source: Midjourney

Mike tries to tidy up his house | Source: Midjourney

He groaned and grabbed a dirty shirt from the bin, reluctantly putting it on. Guests started coming in, and Mike was running around in his stained clothes, trying to clean up.

“Ugh, my grandma was supposed to clean this already,” he muttered to his friend, Tom. “Because of her, I have nothing to wear!”

Tom raised an eyebrow. “Dude, you’re thirty. Are you serious?” he asked, laughing.

High school friends laughing at Mike | Source: Midjourney

High school friends laughing at Mike | Source: Midjourney

Another friend, Jake, smirked. “Yeah, man. Do your own laundry. What’s wrong with you?”

Mike ignored them and kept trying to clean up. Grandma, despite her exhaustion, got up to help him. “I’m sorry, Mike. I can help now,” she said, grabbing a mop.

“You should have done this earlier, Grandma. Now everything’s ruined.”

Sad grandmother looks down | Source: Midjourney

Sad grandmother looks down | Source: Midjourney

The room fell silent as everyone watched the scene unfold. Mike’s angry speech echoed in the quiet house. “Why can’t you just do your job, Grandma?” he shouted.

People looked at him in disbelief. One of the old teachers, Mr. Parker, shook his head. “Mike, you should be ashamed. She’s your grandmother, not your maid.”

Mike’s face turned red. He looked around at the judgmental faces of his friends and family. Humiliated, he stomped upstairs and locked himself in his room.

Mad Mike | Source: Midjourney

Mad Mike | Source: Midjourney

I turned to Grandma, who looked upset. “Don’t worry, Grandma. Let’s enjoy the night,” I said, giving her a hug.

The guests slowly resumed their conversations, the awkwardness fading away. We enjoyed the BBQ, shared stories, and had a good time. Grandma finally relaxed and laughed with her old friends.

Family enjoying a barbecue | Source: Pexels

Family enjoying a barbecue | Source: Pexels

As the evening went on, I felt a sense of satisfaction. Mike needed to understand what Grandma had been going through. Hopefully, this would be a wake-up call for him to change his ways.

Grandma smiled at me. “Thank you, dear,” she said softly. “I hope he learns from this.”

Mia hugs her grandmother | Source: Midjourney

Mia hugs her grandmother | Source: Midjourney

“I think he will,” I replied, looking up at the darkened window where Mike had retreated. “He has to.”

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