diff --git a/traits_futures/tests/common_future_tests.py b/traits_futures/tests/common_future_tests.py
index 625fb39c..c49e4d54 100644
--- a/traits_futures/tests/common_future_tests.py
+++ b/traits_futures/tests/common_future_tests.py
@@ -100,7 +100,7 @@ def record_states(event=None):
         # Record initial, synthesize some state changes, then record final.
         record_states()
         future._task_started(None)
-        future._task_returned(self.fake_exception())
+        future._task_returned(23)
         record_states()
 
         # Check consistency.