#Chapter 55: Uncharted Waters

Grace My face heated as the thought passed through my mind, and he smiled at me. “I thought maybe Cecil had gotten a hold of it, but something tells me this is all you.” I smiled, trying not to be embarrassed at the sight of my binder. “She had to get it from somewhere. Thank you," I replied, taking it from him and cradling its weight against my chest. Our fingers brushed briefly, sending a tingle down my spine. "And good luck with the investigation." He smiled a warm, genuine smile that made my heart skip a beat. "I'll do my best," he said. "I'll see you later, Grace." I looked down and was pleasantly surprised to find all the papers and additional folders there despite the rubber band that had once held it together being gone. In its place were two large, thick black bands that seemed to hook together. It certainly felt sturdier than all the rubber bands I had used over the years. “Can I keep this?” He chuckled. “Of course.” As he turned to leave, I couldn't