The bell above the door jingled as a middle-aged woman, her graying hair pulled back into a messy bun, entered the small town bakery. The sweet aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries filled the air, and the small space was inviting, with warm yellow walls and wooden accents. "Good morning, Sarah! It's nice to see you again. What can I get you today?" The woman behind the counter, a plump older woman with a kind smile, greeted her. "Hello, Betty. I'm here to pick up the cake I ordered for my granddaughter's birthday. She's turning five, and I want it to be special." Betty's eyes sparkled with warmth. "Of course, I remember. It's a beautiful cake, just like you requested." She disappeared into the back of the shop, and soon returned with a large, intricately decorated cake. The top was adorned with a colorful doll, and the sides were covered in pink and purple frosting. Sarah's face lit up. "It's perfect, Betty. Thank you so much." "You're welcome, dear. I hope your granddaughter enjoys it." As Sarah reached for her wallet, the bell above the door jingled once more, announcing the arrival of another customer. A man in his early thirties, wearing a worn leather jacket and jeans, walked in. His face was unshaven, and his eyes looked weary. Betty greeted him with a smile. "Good morning! What can I get for you today?" The man hesitated, rubbing his chin. "I was wondering if you had any... meat pies?" Betty's smile faltered for a moment, and she exchanged a quick glance with Sarah. "I'm sorry, but we don't carry meat pies here. We mainly focus on pastries and sweet treats." The man nodded, his expression unreadable. "Alright, thank you." He turned to leave, but then paused, as if considering something. "Do you know anywhere in town that does sell meat pies?" Betty pursed her lips, thinking. "Well, there's the diner down the street. They might have something like that. Or you could try the grocery store; they sometimes carry frozen ones." "Thanks. I'll check those places out." The man left the bakery, the bell jingling once more as the door closed behind him. Sarah looked at Betty, her eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Meat pies? That's an odd request for a bakery." Betty shrugged, wiping her hands on her apron. "I know. It's not the first time he's come in asking for something like that. There's just something about him that seems... off."