Thank you so much for your comment; it's always nice to read about players' thoughts about the game!
The thing with Reed is... a little more complicated than that. I don't want to spoil too much, but I will say that you were correct in both of your guesses. MC is one of the two people that actually know Reed, both the good and the bad parts of him. Their relationship will be more clear as the story goes, so hopefully by the IV or V chapter, you'll be able to make up your mind about him.
I am glad you liked Jewel! Yes, she is very much in the same position as MC, though she has a bit more to lose. Well, much more.
Haha, Laurent is a really driven person. He just wants to do his job and he's willing to risk a lot for it.
Thanks again! I can't say for sure when the next chapter will be released, but I am working on it! :)