David Chen
Minor
About
A 34-year-old attorney with a crisp suit and an expression that gives nothing away. He is Thomas Sterling's personal lawyer and the executor of his estate, and he moves through the world with the quiet efficiency of a man who has seen too much and trusts too little.
Backstory
The son of Chinese immigrants, David worked his way through Columbia Law and was hired by Sterling Group right out of school. He became Thomas's most trusted advisor after helping him navigate the legal fallout of his son's death. He has watched Thomas's charitable efforts with growing skepticism, believing that the old man's 'tests' are cruel and manipulative — but he has never said so aloud.
Motivation
To protect Thomas from his own worst instincts and to ensure that the foundation is legally and ethically sound.
Character Arc
David begins as a skeptical gatekeeper, openly doubting Maya's worthiness and warning her that Thomas's generosity comes with strings. When Maya proves herself by standing up to Thomas and insisting on transparency, David becomes her unlikely ally, helping her navigate the legal complexities of the foundation. He ends the story as a true believer — not in Thomas, but in Maya.