369: Establishing your place [pt1]

"I was unaware that you had also invited the divine leader to the dinner, Lady Tsurugi. This surprised me, but I would have preferred a prior notice."

Chen did not sound surprised or sad to see Charlie Suzuki at the Tsurugi estate. But he was a little careful about how he carried himself. His brain and body automatically straightened out, and he proudly held himself.

On the other hand, Charlie Suzuki had gone stiff, and she looked at Chen almost as if he was a corpse she could not believe existed.

Her mouth opened, but no sound came out. Finally, she pulled herself together and uttered a name she never thought she would speak again.

"Chen…you are alive after all."

Charlie knew about Chen's involvement with the HIVE. But he had never officially come out and shown his face. This was the first time they had met since they separated when Amane had died.