The aroma of fresh bread and cinnamon swirled through the air, heavy and comforting. An elderly woman in a floral dress shuffled across the checkered floor, her eyes scanning the shelves. A young man, his hair as dark as the coffee beans in the corner, leaned against the counter, his gaze fixed on the display case filled with pastries. “They’re all so tempting,” the woman sighed, her voice as soft as the powdered sugar dusting the donuts. “They are,” the young man agreed, a smile tugging at his lips. “I always find myself coming back for the chocolate éclairs.” “They are indeed delicious,” the woman nodded, her hand reaching for a glazed donut, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “But I suspect a little bribery might get you a taste of that delectable blueberry pie.” He chuckled, his smile widening. “I wouldn’t dare bribe such a charming lady.” “Well, perhaps a little persuasion might do the trick,” she teased, a twinkle in her eye. “Perhaps a juicy bit of gossip about that new family in town?”