The doorbell above the entrance to Sugar & Slice jingled as the morning rush subsided. The aroma of freshly baked croissants and cinnamon rolls wafted through the air, enticing passersby to step inside. At the far end of the bakery, two familiar faces sat at a small table, sipping coffee and deep in conversation. "Did you see her at the town meeting last night? She looked like she just sucked on a lemon." "Wasn't just her. Half the council looked like they'd lost their last marble. What's going on?" "Don't know, but I heard rumors about new developers sniffing around town. Maybe they're trying to buy up property." "That can't be good. We can't let them turn our town into some cookie-cutter suburban nightmare." "I agree. Think we should start asking some questions." "I've already started. Spoke to a few people after the meeting, did some digging online. Nothing yet, but I've got a few leads." "Keep at it. I'll see what I can find out through the chamber of commerce. Maybe someone's talking." The pair clinked cups together in a silent toast, their eyes sparkling with determination, as the morning light streaming through the window cast a warm glow over the cozy bakery.