The sweet scent of fresh-baked bread wafted through the air, mingling with the chatter of the early morning crowd. The register at the counter of "Flour and Fancy" baker, Mrs. Jenkins, sparkled with a warm hermetically sealed container of mille-feuille, oozing buttery pastry and golden syrup. Emma's gaze flicked to the newcomer, a disheveled woman with a scratched apron and wisps of pink-blonde hair. She paused, lost in thought, her eyes lingering on the display case. "What can I get started for you, Miss...?" Mrs. Jenkins inquired, her voice a soothing croon. The woman hesitated, confusion written across her face before a faint smile curved her lips, "Oh, no... just a plain coffee. Black." A fluttery crumb landing on the counter sent Emma's attention drifting back to the small town gossip that was on everyone's lips – rumor of a long-sought-after summer cottage renovation on Main Street. A whispered phone call just that morning, sparking anticipation among the residents. Emma's pencil hovered poised over her orders, pen hovering, as the baker's fingers expertly navigated her tray of croissants. The tension in the air was palpable, as the truth behind this intriguing figure was being skillfully held at bay...