Charlie raised his hand to dismiss the concern. “It’s fine. Don’t worry. I have some personal affairs to take care of, and I’ll be back when I’m done.”

Isaac asked, “Is it in Osaka? Do you want me to arrange a convoy for you?”

“It’s not necessary.” Charlie didn’t say exactly where he was going, and he didn’t intend to.

For some unknown reason, he kept thinking about Nanako. It was perhaps out of sympathy, or admiration, or other indescribable emotions. He couldn’t figure it out, nor did he wa