"Ah, baked goods and gossip: the perfect combination in this sleepy little town," sighs the baker as he slides the tray of muffins onto the display case. The regulars begin to hum and murmur softly as their eyes land on the sweet pastries. "Mmm, chocolate chip today, darling? You know how I can't resist those," coos a woman, reaching for a warm baguette. The bakery owner chuckles. "Go on, take a bite. You deserve it." As the woman waits for change, she notices a stranger at the counter. "It's been a while since we had new faces around these parts. Welcome to my bakery! You here for a special occasion or just tired of the same old routine?" she asks pleasantly. "I've never been here before, actually. Moved in just a few days ago next door," he replies, careful to avoid eye contact with the gossipy customers. "Well, we like to make friends around here. There's always room for one more." The baker nods toward the muffins. "I highly recommend these." Suddenly, a sour pout spills out a string of complaints about the bakery's pastries being too expensive. "Fancy schmancy treats. Systemic inflation if you ask me. Should be recalled!" "Ahem. Our products meet all the standards, missy. People come from miles to buy our baked goods," she growls. The baker nervously tries to intervene. "Actually, I've got just the thing." He slides the stranger a warm muffin with a wink, as if sharing a secret. The clumsy oaf trips on the way out and clatters against the display, sending muffins tumbling. "Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry! That'll be 50 cents for the muffins!" The stranger just chuckles and shakes his head as he pays. The bakery owner exchanges a knowing glance with the otheratron, the cycle of kindness, cash, and small-town chatter continues.