Chapter 208

A warmth spread through my chest, and the gloomy mood I had been carrying lifted almost instantly. The bright yellow gift bag was filled with handmade treasures from the kids—cards, birthday notes, and various handcrafted items. I picked up the bag and turned to leave the office. Just as I was about to head downstairs, I heard a faint rustling sound coming from the records room. It was subtle, like someone searching through files or shuffling papers. I wondered if someone was inside. My brow furrowed as suspicion flickered through me. At this hour, everyone should either be downstairs eating or chatting together. Why would anyone be in the records room? Curious, I headed toward the room and pushed open the door. The rustling noises stopped abruptly. By the time I reached the second row of shelves, I spotted Joanna standing there, peeking around. "Joanna, what are you doing here?" Hadn't she already left? When did she come back? She set down the file in her hands and replied soft