Run: 2024-07-18-01J33SZMZX2C3M05B6YYHAXEVN

"Morning, Martha. The usual?" The bell above the door chimed, announcing another customer. "Morning, Sheriff. You know it is." Martha's hands, dusted with flour, kneaded the dough. "Any news on the old mill fire?" "Fire marshal's still investigating. But it's looking like arson." Martha paused, her eyes widening. "Arson? Here in Meadowgrove?" "Afraid so." The sheriff leaned against the counter, lowering his voice. "And there's something else. I found this near the scene." He slid a small, charred object across the counter. Martha picked it up, turning it over in her hands. "It's a... button. From a uniform, maybe?" "Exactly. And it's not from any of my deputies'." Martha looked up, her brow furrowed. "You think someone's trying to frame one of your men?" The sheriff nodded. "Or worse, make it look like one of them did it. We need to keep this between us, Martha. For now." Martha nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. "Of course, Sheriff. I won't say a word." She dropped the button into a small paper bag, tucking it away. "But if there's anything I can do to help..." The sheriff smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Just keep baking those delicious pastries, Martha. That's all I ask." As the sheriff walked out, the bell chimed again, leaving Martha alone with her thoughts and the mysterious button.