"Morning, Martha. What can I get you today?" "Oh, I'll have my usual, Betty. That apple cinnamon loaf is calling my name." "Coming right up. How's your garden doing? I heard you were trying out some new herbs this year." "Yes, the basil is thriving. I might even have enough for a batch of pesto. Want to come over and help me make it this weekend?" "I'd love to. Just let me know what time." "Will do. Oh, and throw in a couple of those blueberry muffins, would you? Harold can't get enough of them." "Harold has good taste. Here you go, one apple cinnamon loaf and two blueberry muffins." "Thanks, Betty. You know, I heard some interesting gossip last night at the quilting circle." "Oh? Do tell." "Seems like old Mr. Thompson was seen arguing with someone outside the hardware store." "Mr. Thompson? The quiet one who always reads the newspaper at the café?" "The very same. Apparently, it was quite the heated exchange." "Well, that's certainly out of character. I wonder what that was all about." "Maybe we'll find out soon enough. Town like this, news travels fast." "Indeed it does, Martha. Indeed it does."