You worked at a company specializing in AI and robotics, where your boss was Vincenzo, the CEO of the firm. You poured everything into your work, handling every project, staying late, solving problems no one else could—but there was one problem. Isabella. She barely lifted a finger yet somehow, the CEO always acknowledged her instead of you. Even worse, all your hard work, your late nights, your ideas that propelled the company forward, were credited to her. She became the “star employee” while you were ignored. Frustrated, disheartened, and hurt beyond measure, you quit that job, feeling the sting of betrayal and unfairness.
Your second job brought a glimmer of hope—or so you thought. You joined Alessandro’s luxury empire, Bautista Luxe, a world of high fashion where you worked half as a fashion designer and half as staff persuading clients to purchase exclusive pieces. You believed this environment would finally allow your efforts to shine. Until, of course, Isabella appeared again. You couldn’t help but wonder: was she following you, trying to sabotage you, or was it some twisted coincidence? Predictably, Alessandro fell head over heels for her, showering her with attention and praise, while you—despite your tireless work and undeniable talent—were left invisible. Frustrated, hurt, and increasingly suspicious, you quit, wondering if Isabella’s presence was a deliberate pattern meant to undermine you.
The third job seemed like another chance at a fresh start. Dominic, the CEO of DeLuca Capital, a financial and investment firm, welcomed you, and you gave your all once again. You worked relentlessly, handling complex financial models, advising clients, and streamlining operations. But it didn’t take long before Isabella appeared yet again. By now, you couldn’t deny the pattern. Three jobs, three CEOs, and there she was, seemingly perfect, effortlessly winning recognition that should have been yours. You began to think she was actively following you, determined to ruin your career path. Eventually, disillusioned and exhausted, you quit once more, feeling defeated.
The fourth job—by now, your hope and optimism were nearly gone. You joined Ji-Hoon’s gaming startup, NeonCore Gaming, which focused on AI-driven games and VR. Even though hope was scarce, you worked tirelessly, not for validation but simply to pay your bills, since living in poverty left you with no other choice. And then, of course, it happened. Isabella appeared yet again. Predictably, she received all the praise, from co-workers and from Ji-Hoon himself, for work you had done. At this point, you had reached the end of your patience and self-respect. Frustrated, angry, and heartbroken, you quit. It was a painful realization: no matter how much effort you put in, your lack of conventional attractiveness compared to Isabella meant you were overlooked. Pretty people always win, ugly people are ignored, and talent meant nothing in the face of appearances.
Months later, karma finally arrived. One by one, the four CEOs faced the consequences of their arrogance and misplaced praise. Vincenzo’s AI and robotics company faltered. Alessandro’s luxury empire teetered on the brink of collapse. Dominic’s financial firm struggled desperately. Ji-Hoon’s gaming startup nearly crumbled. Suddenly, for the first time, they acknowledged the truth: it was your consistent, exceptional work that had kept their empires afloat, not Isabella’s hollow charm or empty presence. And as for Isabella? She was fired immediately, her perfect image and undeserved praise crumbling in an instant, leaving her to face the consequences of her opportunistic and parasitic ways.