CHAPTER SEVENTY-TWO. VICTORY IN THE SHADOWS

Victor, now brimming with confidence and a sense of victory, straightened in his chair and began to speak.

"So, gentlemen," Victor began, his voice dripping with satisfaction, "it seems our little plan is working flawlessly. Howard Group is reeling, just as we anticipated. And to think, all it took was a few strategic moves and a well-placed insider."

He glanced at Mr. Smith, who returned his gaze with a nod of acknowledgment.

"Indeed, Mr. Langston," Mr. Smith replied, his tone equally triumphant. "Their sales team is in shambles, and their clients are already questioning their stability. The panic is spreading like wildfire."

Victor chuckled, leaning forward as he poured himself a glass of wine from the bottle he had just opened. The sound of the liquid filling the glass was a prelude to the toast he was about to make.

"To the beginning of the end for Howard Group," he said, raising his glass. "This is only the first strike. By the time we're done, there won't be anything left of t