Vivienne Bianco's Affair Ends in Tragedy

Randall Smiley's testimony reveals the sordid details of Bianco's death.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A 19-year-old woman named Celia recounts the story of Vivienne Bianco, an executive at the phone company where Celia worked, and her affair with a co-worker named Randall Smiley. The affair ended in tragedy when Bianco's husband caught the two lovers and a violent confrontation ensued, leading to Bianco's death. Celia grapples with the impact of Randall's story and how it has changed her perspective on life.

Why it matters

This story provides a glimpse into the social dynamics and power dynamics within a 1970s workplace, particularly the rigid hierarchies and gender norms that shaped relationships and personal lives. Celia's reflection on the profound impact of Randall's story also speaks to the lasting effects that traumatic events can have on individuals.

The details

Celia worked in the Resident Billing Office of the phone company, where she and her co-workers, including Randall Smiley, were tethered to their desks and forbidden from leaving without permission. Vivienne Bianco, an executive at the company, was having an affair with the lower-ranking Randall. One day, Vivienne's husband came home unexpectedly and discovered the two lovers. In the panic, they forgot to hide a used condom, leaving incriminating evidence behind.

  • In 1974, Celia was 19 years old and working at the phone company.
  • The incident between Vivienne, her husband, and Randall occurred one day.

The players

Celia

A 19-year-old woman working in the Resident Billing Office of the phone company in 1974.

Randall Smiley

Celia's co-worker in the Resident Billing Office, who was having an affair with Vivienne Bianco.

Vivienne Bianco

An executive at the phone company who was having an affair with Randall Smiley, her lower-ranking co-worker.

Vivienne Bianco's husband

Vivienne's husband, who caught her and Randall in the act.

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What they’re saying

“Get under the bed, get under the bed!" Vivienne ugly-whispered, and Randall had done exactly that, squeezing himself under the bed—but in their panic the two lovers forgot to attend to the used condom on the floor.”

— Vivienne Bianco

The takeaway

This tragic story highlights the complex power dynamics and social hierarchies that shaped personal relationships in the 1970s workplace, as well as the lasting impact that traumatic events can have on individuals like Celia who are exposed to them.