Betty leaned against the wooden counter, sipping her steaming hot cocoa as she observed the hustle and bustle around her. The bakery was filled with the pleasant aroma of freshly baked goodies, and the sounds of giggles and chatter echoed off the walls. Suddenly, the bell above the door jingled as a new customer entered. Betty raised an eyebrow as she noticed the woman's disheveled appearance and the sheer panic in her eyes. "Excuse me," the woman stammered, "Do you have any baking soda?" Betty raised her eyebrows higher. "Baking soda? Here in the bakery?" "Yes, please," the woman replied, her voice barely audible above the noise. "I'm in a bit of a hurry, and I can't find it anywhere else." Betty hesitated for a moment, knowing she usually kept a small stock of baking soda for herself, but she decided to help the frantic woman. She rummaged through the shelves behind the counter, finally locating the elusive ingredient. "Here you go," she said, handing the woman a small tub of baking soda. "That should be enough for whatever you're baking." The woman clutched the tub to her chest gratefully. "Thank you so much," she said, her relief evident in her voice. "You have no idea how much this means to me." Betty smiled warmly. "It's my pleasure. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a cozy mystery to finish." The woman glanced at the book Betty was holding, her eyes widening in recognition. "Oh, I love cozy mysteries! Who's your favorite author?" Betty chuckled. "I can't say I have just one. There are so many talented writers in this genre. But Agatha Christie will always have a special place in my heart." The woman nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with excitement. "Agatha Christie is a legend! I can't wait to see what happens next in your story." Betty waved goodbye as the woman left the bakery, her steps quickening as she headed off to solve her own little mystery. Betty settled back into her spot next to the counter, eager to uncover the secrets of her own cozy world. And as the afternoon sun streamed in through the windows, she was grateful to be a part of this warm and welcoming community.