Yes, TB, the novel expresses the same transition, altough it makes it more clear. In fact, in the novel, both Tessio and Clemenza avoid Vito for the next two weeks knowing that he murdreed Fanucci. Only then do they inform Vito that noone is conducting Fanucci's collections anymore as if they are waiting for Vito to give them the go ahead to start. Clearly, they have placed themselves in a subordinate position. of course, in GFII, it is Vito that sits behind the desk while Tessio and Clemenza are out conducting business.