Luk Chi-lim, the Independent Commission Against Corruption's Chief Investigation Officer, was the leading candidate for promotion to Deputy Commissioner, but that did not mean he was the only candidate.
Lau Bo-keung could not be entirely certain whether other senior ICAC officials had a hand in L Group's investigation into Luk Chi-lim.
But he was certain that someone would take advantage of the situation behind the scenes.
The position of second-in-command at the Independent Commission Against Corruption demanded integrity and incorruptibility, but it also carried considerable power and authority.
How could any ambitious senior ICAC official willingly let such an opportunity pass?
After all, there was no one within the Independent Commission Against Corruption as dominant as his boss.
Lau Bo-keung did not care about the balance of power within the Independent Commission Against Corruption.
He had neither the inclination nor the means to get involved in personnel changes among the ICAC's senior ranks.
But Lau Bo-keung knew one thing: he and Luk Chi-lim were very close friends.
At this critical juncture, with his old friend about to be promoted, he did not want to see him come to grief over an unexpected setback.
He could use L Group's surveillance of Luk Chi-lim to remind him to be more vigilant in the coming days.
Of course, his concern did not stop Lau Bo-keung from preparing to enjoy a laugh at Luk Chi-lim's expense.
"No hurry! No hurry!"
With a smile, Lau Bo-keung slowly leaned back, settling comfortably against the sofa.
"Give it a few minutes, Chi-lim. I'll introduce you to some old friends."
At the sight of this, Luk Chi-lim could not help giving Lau Bo-keung a sidelong glance and letting out his trademark helpless chuckle.
Then, unwilling to give Lau Bo-keung any further satisfaction, he simply picked up his teacup