The bell above the door jingled as Detective Riley Pearson stepped into the cozy bakery. The warm aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries enveloped him. He scanned the small space, eyeing the glass cases displaying an array of mouth-watering delights. "Can I help you?" a cheery voice called out from behind the counter. Riley turned to see a young woman with sparkling brown eyes and a friendly smile. "I'm just browsing," he replied, sidling up to the case. "What do you recommend?" "We just took out a batch of blueberry muffins. They're still warm," she said, opening the glass door and retrieving one. Riley accepted it gratefully. As he took a bite, the bursting berries and soft crumble melted in his mouth. "I'm in heaven," he moaned appreciatively. "I'll take a dozen, please." Desiree boxed up a baker's dozen, tying the pink string with a neat bow. "First time here?" she asked, sliding the box across the counter. Riley nodded, handing over a twenty. "I'm new in town." "Well, welcome to Meadowgrove!" Desiree chirped. "I hope you'll come back often." "I most certainly will," Riley promised, carrying his precious cargo to the door. The bell jingled again as he exited into the sunny afternoon. unbeknownst to Riley, Desiree was already on the phone. "Mom? You won't believe who just walked into my bakery," she stage-whispered. "The new detective."