Courtyard House: I Have Countless Bodyguards

Just then, James, who had been in a state of shock, digestion, and excitement, finally came to his senses from this information-packed conversation.

Young blood was boiling in his veins. The "Eight Directions Alliance," "Trade City," and "Family Revival" that his uncle and Liu Jianguo had talked about combined to create a world that was infinitely more exciting and wonderful than inheriting the family property and living a routine life!

He longed to participate, to be a part of this grand picture, rather than merely an observer.

He stood up abruptly, his face flushed with excitement, his bright blue eyes fixed on Liu Jianguo, and said urgently and sincerely:

"Sister...brother-in-law!"

I……

I don't know if I'm qualified, but... but I still want to join!

I also want to follow you, follow Emily, and do something for this... this trading city, for the family!

I don't want to idle away my days anymore!

His directness and enthusiasm carried the impetuosity and courage unique to young people.

Upon hearing this, Liu Jianguo's heart stirred.

James's initiative to volunteer was a delightful surprise!

This young nephew of the Cavendish family, although not a direct heir, has Cavendish blood in his veins and is a formal member of the family's younger generation.

His addition was not merely about adding another person to the workforce; its symbolic significance was far greater—

This sends a clear signal to the outside world, especially to the British upper class and potential followers.

This "new project," spearheaded by Emily and supported behind the scenes by Liu Jianguo, has gained official recognition and participation from the younger generation of the Cavendish family!

This is more convincing than any official statement, and can greatly dispel doubts about Emily's sudden "entrepreneurial venture" and the Cavendish family's attitude, giving the whole plan a more legitimate veneer of "family affairs" and "the pioneering spirit of the younger generation".

However, James was, after all, a member of the Cavendish family, and his joining required the approval of the current head of the family, who was also his uncle.

Liu Jianguo did not answer James immediately, but instead turned his gaze to Earl Arthur, his eyes calm but with a clear meaning.

This is to solicit the parents' opinions, to test the Earl's opinion on James's involvement, and... is this another move the Earl has intentionally arranged?

Count Arthur looked at the questioning gaze Liu Jianguo cast at him, and several thoughts flashed through his mind in an instant.

James is a smart and energetic kid, but he lacks experience and is also a bit impetuous.

If he were to remain under the protection of his family, he might become a competent nobleman, but he would be ill-suited for great responsibilities.

Right now, placing him in the new business led by Liu Jianguo and Emily, which is full of challenges and opportunities, is certainly risky, but isn't it also an excellent opportunity for him to hone his skills?

The experience of being able to witness the real workings of the Eight Alliance and participate in the seemingly promising Trade City project offers insights and training that cannot be matched by staying in London's social circles or managing a family's traditional business.

More importantly, just as Liu Jianguo thought, James's involvement was the best way to demonstrate the Cavendish family's full support for the project, saving a lot of unnecessary speculation and trouble.

Without almost any hesitation, Count Arthur met Liu Jianguo's gaze and nodded slowly and firmly.

He didn't say much, but the gesture itself showed his attitude.

He agreed, and even encouraged James to get involved.

This is both a further support for Liu Jianguo's proposal and an investment and strategic move for the younger generation of the family.

With the Earl's approval, Liu Jianguo's last concern about manpower and status disappeared.

He turned to James, who was looking at him expectantly, gave him an approving smile, nodded, and said:

"Good. It's a good thing to have enthusiasm."

Since you're interested, and the Earl agrees, then welcome to join us.

He then took the opportunity to offer more specific arrangements, both to James and to reaffirm the entire plan with Earl Arthur:

"Actually, my original idea for the new base in the UK was for Isabel to take overall charge. She is capable and trustworthy."

He glanced at the Marquis, indicating his approval of Isabel's abilities, then changed the subject...

"However, given her current health condition and the fact that her official position in the Hong Kong Police Force is indeed sensitive, it is not realistic to allow her to stay or be directly managed for an extended period of time."

Therefore, I prefer Emily to handle the public aspects of the work; she is young, energetic, and the position is suitable.

He turned his gaze to James and said in a tone of delegation and expectation:

"Now that you're willing to join, James, that's great."

You can serve as Emily's deputy, or rather, as the Cavendish family's representative in this endeavor, assisting Emily in managing the construction and initial operation of this new base.

It's also easier for you young people to communicate, learn from each other, and support one another.

Finally, he looked at Earl Arthur again, his tone shifting to a formal inquiry:

"Your Excellency, what do you think of this arrangement?"

Emily will lead the effort, with James assisting, to jointly represent the Cavendish family in advancing this trade center project that we are collaborating on.

I believe this will be excellent training for both of them, and will also allow the project to integrate into the British environment more quickly and smoothly.

He cited representing the Cavendish family and training young people as his reasons.

It granted Emily and James sufficient authority and authority while fully respecting the Cavendish family's face and interests. The plan was meticulous and thoughtful, making it hard to refuse.

Count Arthur raised his brandy glass again, this time gesturing slightly to Liu Jianguo, then downed it in one gulp, as if drinking the strong liquor of a covenant, and said:

"Alright. Since the Cavendish family has made their choice and agreed to join the Eight-Way Alliance, I will support them to the end."

Emily and James, they will represent the family and help you get things started here.

The specific details are for you young people to discuss and handle. If the family needs to coordinate, let me know anytime.

These words amounted to formal authorization and set the tone for future cooperation—he would provide support from the rear, while the specific execution would be left to the younger generation and Liu Jianguo's team.

"marvelous!"

James almost jumped up, his face flushed with excitement. His previous trepidation and shock were completely replaced by a huge sense of participation and anticipation for the adventure ahead.

He could almost see himself assisting Emily in making a name for herself in that mysterious "Trade City," participating in those exciting events.

He turned to Liu Jianguo, his eyes fervent, and said, "Brother-in-law, I will definitely not let you and Uncle down! I will learn from Emily and get things done!"

Liu Jianguo nodded to James, then raised his glass in return to Earl Arthur, saying:

"Your Excellency the Marquis is a man of great understanding and integrity; it is a pleasure to cooperate with you."

The chill in the courtyard seemed to have been dispelled considerably by this conversation that established the alliance, and the atmosphere between the three...

From the initial tentativeness and tension, it eventually turned into a subtle sense of alliance with a shared goal, filled with excitement and anticipation.