“Did you hear about Martha’s cat?” “Again? I thought he was safely returned last time.” "Apparently, someone left a tiny knit scarf tied around his neck this morning." "That can't be comfortable in this heat. Is Martha upset?" “Oh, she’s more flustered than mad. She's convinced it’s another one of those secret admirer things.” “Darling, last time it was a heart-shaped cookie. Before that, a bouquet of weeds—I mean, wildflowers.” “I saw her walking past the apple tarts, muttering about suitors with questionable taste.” “Maybe she’s got a point. Who keeps slipping gifts onto her porch?” “Honestly, I wish someone would leave a surprise for me, as long as it’s not a weed bouquet.” “I’ll ask Ben if he’s seen anything. He’s always at that window cleaning it, if you can call it cleaning.” “You think Ben’s behind all this?” “He’s got a soft spot for Martha, don’t you think?” “Ben can barely say good morning without turning tomato red. You really think he’s sneaking around before sunrise?” “It’s sweeter than my cinnamon rolls, either way.” “Just promise if you figure it out, you’ll tell me first. I could use a little bakery gossip to sweeten my day.”