The belongings relevant to the investigation had been documented, and their handling was coordinated with investigators.

When the blanket could be returned, we would have it cleaned carefully and kept.

Until then, I described where it was and promised not to throw anything away without asking her.

“Not the rattle either?” she asked.

“Not unless you decide.”

“I don’t want it near me.”

“Then it won’t be.”

Hayes brought a bag with clean clothes and my shaving things.