“Did you hear about Mrs. Thompson’s cat?” “Which one? The one that thinks it’s a dog or the one that steals my mail?” “The one that thinks it’s a dog! Apparently, it chased off a raccoon last night.” “Really? I thought raccoons were supposed to be fearless. What’s next, a cat that can fetch?” “Don’t give Mrs. Thompson any ideas. She’ll have that cat in a tutu performing tricks at the town fair.” “Speaking of the fair, have you decided what you’re entering this year?” “I’m torn between my famous blueberry pie and that new chocolate tart recipe. What do you think?” “Go with the pie! Everyone loves it, and it’s practically a town tradition. Plus, you can’t go wrong with blueberries.” “True, but I’m worried someone might steal my secret ingredient again.” “Just keep it under wraps. Last year’s incident with the missing cinnamon was a disaster.” “Right? I still suspect that new baker from across the street. He’s too charming for his own good.” “Charming or not, he’s got competition. Just wait until they taste your pie.” “Let’s hope it’s enough to keep the raccoons—and the competition—at bay.”