The bell above the door tinkled as a gust of autumn air swept into Sweetie Pie's Bakery. The aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked bread filled the cozy space. "Did you hear about old Mrs. Hendricks?" "No, what happened? Is she alright?" "Found dead in her garden this morning. Face down in the petunias." "Good heavens! Natural causes?" "That's the thing. Chief Thompson's not so sure. Apparently, there were some strange markings on her neck." "Markings? Like what?" "Don't know the details, but I overheard him talking to Deputy Mills outside the pharmacy. Mentioned something about it being 'highly unusual.'" "Well, I never! Mrs. Hendricks was as healthy as a horse. Who would want to hurt her?" "That's the million-dollar question. Though, come to think of it, she did mention having a falling out with someone at the last town council meeting." "Really? Who?" "Couldn't say. She clammed up when I asked. Said it was 'town business.'" "How mysterious. Pass me that tray of scones, will you? I have a feeling we'll be getting a lot of curious customers today." "You can say that again. Nothing like a good mystery to bring out the sweet tooth in this town."