She somberly walked into the bakery, her expression telling a story of its own. The moment the bell above the door chimed, there was suddenly an animated atmosphere in the small town bakery. The chatter of voices stopped abruptly as everyone's eyes moved to the solemn lady. The customers stole a quick glance at the objects she held in her hands before they darted out the door, leaving behind an eerie silence that made her shudder. Amid the perplexing bustle, she made her way through the rows of delectable pastries. Laughter and intelligible chatter filled the store, but no one was amused by her sorrowful presence. The aromatic smells of hot crisp doughnuts wafting into her nostrils seemed to be further disquieting. After a cautious scan of the surroundings, she discerned a shy observer not far off, carefully perusing the trays lined with enticing cakes. The bakery owner, a short man with a kind face, gave her a passing smile, which only unsettled her further. The delicate cake in her hands shifted as she shivered. The covert gaze lingered, making it seem like a conspirator only those who knew the truth would understand. As their eyes met, the woman finally noticed a small bag in the boy's hands. Something about the meaningless exchange caught her attention and turned her already inebedled curiosity into a sharp focus, almost like glaring over a riddle. With a single gesture, she nonchalantly exchanged the bag around his waist for her precious cake, and walked out, enigma solved. The only sound the small town would ever remember was the heavenly scent of freshly baked pastries left behind.