Courtyard House: I Have Countless Bodyguards

This family still possesses the ability to manipulate certain situations within specific, little-known networks of old relationships.

This meeting is troublesome, an unknown game of strategy, but perhaps...

It can also serve as a window for observing, evaluating, and even utilizing its residual value in the future.

The pros and cons were quickly weighed in my mind, and finally, a clear conclusion emerged:

This aspect cannot be avoided, nor should it be avoided.

Instead of letting the other party constantly suspect and put pressure on you, take the initiative and control the pace of the conversation.

Thinking of this, he looked up at Isabel, nodded, and said in a calm tone:

"Sure. Since things have come to this point, it's only right that we meet."

I was just thinking of thanking them in person, at least... thanking them for giving birth to you and Emily.

The last sentence was spoken calmly, yet it made Isabel's cheeks flush slightly.

Upon hearing this, Isabel's eyes lit up with surprise, and she almost stood up immediately to say:

"Really? Master, are you really willing to go see them?"

But then, as if remembering something, a hint of worry crept into her joy, and her hand unconsciously went to protect her abdomen again. She softened her voice and tentatively asked:

"Well... about the child... we previously..."

She didn't finish her sentence, but the meaning in her eyes was clear—

She feared that Liu Jianguo might make all sorts of demands or even be difficult after meeting her parents.

This will change previous arrangements for the child, especially on the sensitive issues of surname and inheritance rights.

Seeing her nervous expression, Liu Jianguo understood.

His expression remained unchanged, but his tone carried an undeniable firmness as he spoke:

"Regarding the child, just do what I told Emily before."

My promise will not change just because I meet your parents.

The boy must have the surname Liu, as this is the root of my lineage.

Girl, we can discuss it.

As for the inheritance of the title, that will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

You can rest assured about that.

He softened his tone slightly and continued:

"In addition, your parents helped with the Hong Kong matter this time."

Whatever the reason, I've remembered this favor.

Both morally and logically, I should visit and express my gratitude. But let's keep things separate.

Hearing his confirmation again, Isabel visibly relaxed, a smile returning to her face, and with the excitement of introducing this "important person" to her family, she said:

"Great! Then... when is it convenient for you, Master?"

I need to tell my father and mother in advance, they...

Yes, we pay a lot of attention to etiquette and arrangements, so we need some time to prepare and give you a proper welcome.

She carefully chose her words, not wanting Liu Jianguo to think her parents were arrogant, but that was indeed the case.

Liu Jianguo has never liked to procrastinate; once he makes a decision, he executes it immediately.

"There's no time to lose. Are you physically capable of taking a long-haul flight?"

After receiving Isabel's affirmative nod, he decisively said:

"Then hurry. Apply for leave immediately."

She used the excuse that she needed to return to China to rest and recuperate during her pregnancy.

We flew directly from Hong Kong to London.

I'll take care of everything else.

"Okay, I'll call the department right away."

Isabel immediately agreed, grabbing the armrest of the chair to stand up. In her movements, she once again displayed the shrewd and capable image of a policewoman, still efficient despite her physical limitations.

She had only taken two steps when she remembered something, turned around and raised her voice slightly towards the door, calling out:

"Emily!"

The door was pushed open a crack almost instantly, revealing Emily's curious little face; clearly, she had been "waiting" outside.

"Prepare the guest room in the east wing with a view of the rose garden for the master; make sure it's the quietest one."

Remember to change into freshly dried Egyptian cotton bedding, and have the kitchen prepare some light late-night snacks and hot tea to be delivered to your room.

She issued a series of orders, covering every detail, clearly demonstrating her thorough knowledge of the manor and her understanding of Liu Jianguo's preferences.

Emily answered crisply from outside the door and then said:

"Okay, sister! I'll make sure the master stays comfortable!"

The footsteps faded away quickly.

The next day, everything was arranged.

Liu Jianguo, along with Isabelle and Emily, boarded a flight from Hong Kong to London.

The journey was long, and Isabel needed more rest due to health reasons, making the trip quite challenging.

After a long and winding flight, the announcement finally came over the loudspeaker that we were about to arrive at London Heathrow Airport.

Looking out the window at the gradually clearing British Isles, Liu Jianguo let out a soft sigh and said:

"We've finally arrived."

He turned to Isabel beside him, whose face looked tired but whose eyes were bright, and continued:

"Have you confirmed with your parents? What are the arrangements after you get off the plane?"

Isabel leaned on his shoulder, nodded, and said:

"Before takeoff, I sent a telegram to my mother explaining the flight information."

I expect my family will send someone to pick us up.

Don't worry, everything is arranged.

At this moment, Emily, who was sitting by the window, turned her head, blinked her big eyes, and said with a hint of playfulness and dissatisfaction:

"Hey, have you all forgotten about me?"

This is the place where I grew up!

I'm not some pregnant woman who needs to be taken care of; I'll lead the way!

Looking at her smug, "I'm the landlord" expression, Liu Jianguo couldn't help but smile. He reached out and ruffled her soft blonde hair, saying:

"I haven't forgotten. However, you've been away from home for quite a while now. When you come back this time, I guess you'll be treated like a 'guest' in the eyes of your old-fashioned family."

Having someone officially sent by your family to pick us up at the airport is always more formal and convenient, and it also saves your parents from complaining that we don't know the proper etiquette.

The plane landed smoothly.

After going through immigration and baggage claim, Liu Jianguo pushed the luggage cart with one hand and gently supported Isabel with the other.

Emily followed beside her, looking around curiously. The three of them walked out of the arrival gate with the flow of people.

The hall was packed with people, who were holding up all sorts of signs to greet passengers.

Soon, Liu Jianguo's eyes were drawn to a small but eye-catching piece of cardboard with the word "Cardew" written on it in beautiful cursive English.

The person holding the sign was a boy who looked about sixteen or seventeen years old, wearing a well-tailored dark suit.

But his expression and demeanor still carried a youthful exuberance as he stood on tiptoe, trying to peer into the crowd.

Liu Jianguo gestured and pushed the cart toward that direction.

Before they even got close, the boy's eyes lit up; he had clearly seen them too, especially the conspicuous Isabel.

He immediately put down the sign, waved his arm vigorously, and shouted:

"Cousin Isabel! Cousin Emily! Over here!"

His voice was clear and loud, attracting the attention of many people around him.

Isabel smiled with a hint of helplessness but gentleness, and nodded to the boy as a greeting.

Emily, much more lively, waved her hand, a bright smile spreading across her face, and responded in an even louder voice:

"James! Little James! It really is you who came to pick us up! Long time no see!"