After stepping into the castle, Boston felt a knot in his stomach. He had been here before, but only for official matters.
He was always escorted by guards or attendants, but this time, Austin himself had led him inside. Boston felt both honored and somewhat overwhelmed. Since when had he earned such treatment?
Austin had brushed off higher-ranking officials, so why was he showing him so much attention? Was it because his shiny bald head made him stand out? He had no answers, only a growing curiosity as he followed Austin into the meeting room.
“Sit.” After Austin sat at the head of the table, he raised his hand and gestured for Boston to do the same.
“No… no need. I’ll just stand.” Boston smiled awkwardly.
“Just sit down. Why are you so nervous? I won’t bite,” Austin said in a dismissive tone.
“Y-Yes, Your Highness.” Boston didn’t dare refuse again and obediently took a seat. He was six feet three inches tall, yet he looked like a startled rabbit. He sat up straight and didn’t dare to move an inch.
Austin waved his hand. “Someone bring the tea.”
An attendant quickly brought over a pot of fragrant tea and poured a cup for Boston.
“Thank you for the tea, Your Highness.” Boston hastily picked up the cup and took a sip.
The tea was scalding, and though he dared not complain, he couldn’t help but wince. He forced himself to swallow, steam escaping from his mouth and nose in a visible puff.
“What’s your name?” Austin asked casually.
“My name is Boston Graham, Your Highness. I serve in the military, and I’m 40 years old. I have a pair of twins…”
Boston answered. He rushed through the details to avoid leaving anything out. He didn’t want to give Austin any reason to doubt him.
“Boston, right? I heard you know Jovian from the Ballard family?” Austin asked.
Boston nodded. “I do, Your Highness. I have known Jovian for a long time. He arrived in West Lucozia this morning, and I personally welcomed him.”
“So, where is he now?”
“He’s probably resting at the hotel.”
“Call him. Tell him to come to the castle. If he has anything to discuss, he can speak to me,” Austin said nonchalantly.
“Are you going to meet with Jovian personally, Your Highness?” Boston was taken aback.
“Why not? A distinguished guest like him deserves a warm welcome,” Austin replied indifferently.
“Very well. I’ll call him now.” Boston smiled with relief.
But just as he reached for his phone, Austin raised his hand to stop him. “Hold on! Take a few men with you and make sure he gets here safely.”
Boston quickly caught on. “Are you concerned someone might be plotting against him, Your Highness?”
After all, Austin had turned away many higher-ranking officials, yet he chose to extend such a welcome to Jovian. That could make others jealous and lead to trouble.
“Just do your job. Don’t ask questions,” Austin said without elaborating. He ordered two of his bodyguards to escort Boston out the back.
Representatives from various factions in Oakvale recently arrived in West Lucozia. These groups were rivals, so there was always a chance for underhanded tactics. Austin needed to ensure Jovian’s safety. Otherwise, he would never hear the end of it from Dustin.
Boston left through the castle’s back entrance and entered the designated car. Less than half an hour later, they arrived at the hotel where Jovian was staying.
At that moment, Jovian had just been getting ready to nap but was jolted awake by the doorbell.
When he opened the door, he found Boston, accompanied by two imposing bodyguards.
“Boston, you’re sweating buckets. What happened?” Jovian looked confused.
“I don’t have time to explain. Hurry up and come with me. Sir Austin wants to see you. “Boston grabbed Jovian’s wrist and pulled him forward.
“Sir Austin wants to see me? So, you managed to pull some strings?” Jovian’s face lit up. “Damn, Boston. I didn’t think you’d get it done this fast. That’s impressive.”
He thought he’d have to wait a day or two, but it was done in just two hours. It was much faster than he’d anticipated. It was clear Boston had really put in the effort.
Boston coughed awkwardly. “I didn’t do much. Sir Austin is doing this out of respect for your family. I’m just the messenger.” He looked a little embarrassed at the praise.
He had nearly backed out when faced with the pressure from those big shots earlier. Without Austin’s direct intervention, he never would have made it past the castle gates.
“Ha! You’re something else, Boston. You’re just too modest!” Jovian shook his head with a smile.
The Ballard family might have some influence in Oakvale, but in West Lucozia, they wouldn’t even rank among the small-time players. Whatever power and influence they had back in Oakvale meant nothing here.
Jovian knew it was Boston’s connections that had made this happen.
“Alright, enough about that. Sir Austin is waiting for us at the castle. Let’s not keep him waiting.” Boston’s face flushed slightly as he hurried to change the subject.
They left the hotel and got into the car. Less than half an hour later, they were back at the castle. Fortunately, there were no incidents on the way.
It was likely thanks to the castle’s personal escort ensuring their safe passage. If they had been in Boston’s car, things might have been different.
Once they arrived, they entered through the back entrance. The castle guards led them to the meeting room. Before they could even step inside, Austin greeted them with a bright smile.
“My name is Jovian Ballard. I am honored to meet you, Your High-” Jovian began to bow, but Austin reached out and stopped him.
“Mr. Jovian, what are you doing? There’s no need for that. Hurry inside and have a seat.”
“Huh?”
The casual way Austin called him by his name left Jovian completely stunned.
