Chapter 201: Lunch at the Julian House

"I understand what you mean, and I get the difficulties you're facing right now. I'm just giving you this advice as a friendly reminder."

Having had numerous phone conversations with Carter, Julian was well aware of the current situation in central-southern Georgia and the pressure Carter faced as the owner of the only savings bank in two small towns.

"When you're in the early stages with limited capital, seeking development and breakthrough means you can't really focus on risk control. Things like hedging risks or diversifying investments might not bring you much profit in the short term, even if they are ultimately profitable. Only proactive and aggressive strategies, like what George and his team are doing, can quickly accumulate enough capital."

"What I'm trying to say is that while your current capital isn't massive, it's already quite substantial. If the projects you're working on show some progress, your capital will grow at an impressive rate. As your capital base expands, you'll need to pay more attention to and better manage risks."

"I mentioned Mr. Bogle's experience to highlight this point. When things go too smoothly, you might get overconfident, which can lead to mistakes. I don't want you to end up like him."

Julian laughed suddenly at this point:

"In every sense of the word, unlike him. Now, his ambition is almost gone. Once a proactive fund manager, he has turned to index funds, relying on cutting internal costs to make a profit."

As they reached the door to obtain the license, Carter composed himself, adjusting his expression despite the discomfort in his neck.

After all, bringing Licorice to such an occasion was inappropriate, and having a tilted neck wouldn't be appropriate either.

Following Julian into the office, they picked up the framed RIA license and then headed to Julian's home.

Julian's house was located in Long Island, New York, a wealthy area known for its serene environment. Under the bright sunlight and May breeze, two little kids stumbled toward the arriving car. Adults hurriedly chased after them, worried they might get hit by the vehicle.

"Hahaha, Spencer! Have you been listening to Uncle Wyndham and not causing trouble for your mom?"

After parking the car, Julian's face lit up with a bright smile as he picked up one of the kids, chatting affectionately with him.

As little Robertson babbled about being well-behaved, Julian picked up the other child:

"Oh, our little Chase has become even more handsome! Tell Uncle secretly, did any girls at school write you love letters?"

"Hahaha, he's still so young! Your jokes need some logic!"

Among the adults chasing the kids, a middle-aged man who resembled Julian stepped forward, joking as he took the children from Julian:

"Spencer, Chase, you're four years old! Stand like men and don't need to be carried. We have guests today; you need to behave well so your dad won't be embarrassed!"

"Haha, everyone arrived so early! Carter, look at how popular you are; everyone is eager to meet you!"

Standing on the lawn by the roadside, Julian warmly introduced Carter to his family and friends:

"This is my elder brother, Wyndham. That's my sister Blanche, and her husband, Bacon!"

Bacon?!

Finding the name amusing, Carter smiled and shook hands with everyone.

"We've heard so much about Julian's friend in New York and always wanted to meet you. Finally, we have the chance! You're indeed impressive. Too bad Josie is busy in the kitchen and couldn't greet you right away!"

Wyndham, the last to shake Carter's hand, smiled kindly. His rough hands felt familiar to Carter, reminiscent of handshakes with workers and farmers in Douglas.

Wyndham's voice, similar to the southeastern accent, added to Carter's sense of familiarity.

"Hahaha, Josie will meet you soon! Josie is my wife, and this little guy is my youngest son, Spencer. By the way, where's Alex? Where did he run off to?"

"It's the weekend. He can't stay with us old folks! Young people need their space."

As the group, with the children skipping around, entered the house, two middle-aged women emerged from the kitchen. After another round of warm greetings, everyone sat by the sofas.

Sensing herself as an outsider, Licorice wisely took the kids outside to play on the lawn. Inside the house:

"Sorry, big brother. I can't have dinner at home tonight because the evening banquet is very important to me. I'll find time to spend with you all and show you around New York once I'm done with these few days."

"Your business is important; go ahead! Here, Carter, have an apple to tide you over!"

Handing Carter the first peeled apple, Wyndham smiled broadly and picked up another one:

"This is a major event in your life! You've invested all your savings; it's understandable to prioritize it. As for us, we have plenty of time together. I'm not going anywhere soon!"

After some small talk and an apple, it was time for lunch. Dish after dish was brought to the table, including specialties from Julian's hometown in North Carolina. However, the specialty...

"Hahaha, try this North Carolina specialty. If you don't like it, there are other dishes!"

Carter's blank stare at the mushy dish amused the Julian family, who smiled kindly. Wyndham laughed and said:

"North Carolina flavors are hard for many to get used to. If we had more time, we would have made roast whole pig, which is a true delicacy for all ages! As for this liver mush, many people can't handle it."

"Alright, I'll give it a try! If you hadn't said, I wouldn't have known this was liver."

Smiling wryly, Carter scooped up a spoonful of finely chopped liver mush, added a bit of the ice cream ball on top, and put it in his mouth.

Not particularly fond of liver, Carter braced himself for the odd mix of hot and cold, salty and sweet. Surprisingly...

Despite its appearance, it tasted unexpectedly good!