Her fears were confirmed when Julián approached, his disdain for her apparent in every word, every gesture. His tirade was vicious, each insult a dagger meant to belittle and demean. Isabel stood silent, absorbing every word, every sneer, resisting the urge to assert her identity and authority.

When the freezing water cascaded over her, she gasped—a reflexive response to the shock. Yet she remained steady, rooted amidst the storm of humiliation. This was her moment of truth—a test of character not just for her, but for everyone present.

As she stood there, sodden and shivering, Isabel took a deep, steadying breath. She let the silence stretch, allowing those around her to fully grasp the gravity of what had just unfolded. It was not merely an act of cruelty—they were witnesses to a profound injustice.

Finally, Isabel spoke, her voice clear and unwavering, cutting through the stunned silence. “Thank you, Mr. Mena, for revealing exactly what I needed to see.”

Julián’s smug smile faltered, confusion flickering in his eyes. The room shifted, employees exchanging glances, the atmosphere charged with anticipation.

Isabel continued, her words deliberate and measured. “You’ve shown me the true culture of this workplace—one I intend to change.”

With that, she reached into her imitation handbag, retrieving a small, sleek device. A few swift taps, and the room was filled with the sound of recorded conversations—Julián’s voice, harsh and unrepentant, played back from the hidden microphone she’d carried.

The color drained from Julián’s face as his own words condemned him. Around them, whispers turned to murmurs, the weight of realization settling over the room.

Isabel met his gaze, her expression one of calm resolve. “I am Isabel Fuentes, and this is my company. You may leave now.”

The shock was palpable, disbelief mingling with awe as her true identity dawned on them. Julián’s composure crumbled, his bravado evaporating as security arrived to escort him out.

In that moment, Isabel transformed from a figure of mystery to one of legend—not just a name on documents, but a leader willing to stand in the trenches, to fight for the dignity and respect of every employee.

As she looked around the room, meeting the eyes of those who had watched in silence, Isabel knew her mission was only beginning. The culture of Altavista would change, starting from the ground up, spearheaded by a boss who refused to remain in the shadows.