Chapter 18 - The Rival's Moves
Jack is in his office, going over the bakery's financials. The place is bleeding money, and the deadline to turn it profitable is looming.
"We need to boost sales fast," Jack mutters, tapping a pen against the table. "Or we're sunk."
[Hint: Utilize your new Financial Forecasting skill to identify quick profit opportunities.]
Jack closes his eyes, focusing on the data. The system flashes potential strategies in his mind – new product lines, targeted marketing, cost-cutting measures. But before he can implement them, Chris bursts into the room.
"Jack! We've got a problem."
"What now?"
"It's Derek. He's been spreading rumors that our bakery uses expired ingredients. Customers are demanding refunds."
Jack's jaw clenches. "Derek's behind this?"
Chris nods. "Yeah. He's even got some of his guys to post fake reviews online."
[New Mission Unlocked: Expose the rival's schemes. Reward: Reputation Boost Lv. 1.]
Jack takes a deep breath, forcing himself to stay calm. "Alright. Two can play this game."
[Hint: Use Financial Forecasting to track Derek's cash flow and identify vulnerabilities.]
Jack's eyes narrow as a plan begins to form. "Let's hit him where it hurts."
He picks up the phone and dials Kevin, the tech startup owner he invested in. "Kevin, I need a favor. I need you to dig up everything you can on Derek's finances."
Kevin hesitates. "You're planning something big, aren't you?"
"Bigger than he can imagine," Jack says, a dangerous gleam in his eyes.
[Mission Update: Gather evidence of Derek's financial misconduct. Time remaining: 7 days.]