The bell above the door chimed as the buttery aroma of croissants wrapped around her like a scarf. She brushed a few stubborn raindrops off her coat and glanced around the bakery, settling on the woman behind the counter. "You're earlier than usual today." "Had a hunch I might catch a new blend. Am I right?" "Sharp as ever. We've got a lavender honey scone fresh from the oven." "Tempting, but I'm more interested in a different flavor—yesterday's gossip." "You'd think in a town this small we'd run out of stories. But no, still brewing." "Ah, I see the regular crew is conspicuously absent this morning. Is it silence by intent or coincidence?" "More of a strategic retreat, I’d imagine. Ever since you solved the mystery of Eleanor's missing cat, folks have been treading lightly." "I suppose it's not every day they see a dental hygienist moonlighting as a detective." "As long as it doesn't scandalize Mrs. Pritchard, I think you're safe." "And if it does?" "Bring her one of these scones and she'll forgive your entire past." "Noted. Now, tell me, what’s brewing besides the coffee?" "Keep your voice down, but... rumor has it, someone planted begonias in the town square. Imagine, begonias!" "Who would've thought a flower could rustle so many feathers?"