The bell above the door chimed, a welcome sound that cut through the gentle hum of the mixer. A sniff of fresh-baked bread filled the air, cozy and inviting. "Morning, Lucy. Usual?" "Mm, you know me too well, Alice. Blueberry scone and a black coffee, please." "Comes with the territory. How's the antique shop?" "Slow. Thought I'd drum up some business with a vintage jewelry appraisal day. Turns out, folks in Pale Tree prefer their trinkets unpolished and untouched." "Ah, well, you can't blame them. We like our charm a little rough around the edges." "Yes, and I do too, in the end. But I could have sworn solving the mystery of that old locket would bring in curious customers. Seems the only puzzle folks here enjoy is figuring out who left their cat in the alley behind the hardware store." "Ah, that was old Mr. Jenkins. Thought it was too cold for Whiskers outside his window. Can't say the cat minded the change of scenery." "It's a charming town quirk, I suppose. But enough of my rambling. How are you, Alice? Any new recipes to sweep the town off its feet?" "Well, I'm trying out a new chocolate hazelnut muffin. Thought I'd pair it with a nutty espresso. Think that'll do the trick?" "Mmm, sounds divine. I might just have to extend my morning coffee break."