A gentle hum of the oven filled the quaint bakery as a raspberry-filled croissant was deftly placed on a ceramic plate. A man, inspecting the pastries, startled as the door jingled, letting in a woman enveloped in a flour-dusted apron. "Finally!" he exclaimed, a playful lilt masking his impatience. "Patience is a virtue you're yet to master," she said, her eyes twinkling from behind a face dusted with remnants of powdered sugar. The bakery assistant quickly scurried by, leaving an offering of freshly brewed coffee. "Detective, to what do I owe the pleasure?" she asked, her grin broadening, partially revealed by the steam twirling from her mug. "I believe you've been invited to the Mayor's gala, correct?" the detective inquired, as he bit into a croissant, his gaze narrowing. "Word does travel fast in this charming little town..." She trailed off, watching steam curl from her cup, avoiding his probing stare. "I'm afraid it's more than an invitation. Something, or someone, wants you to be there under questionable circumstances," he responded, his tone serious. She sighed deeply, "I was hoping for some sugar-dusted pastries, not clues and conspiracies." The detective chuckled, "Well, you might get both tonight. See you there, Mrs. Baker."