The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the faint aroma of cinnamon as sunlight spilled through the bakery’s front window. Behind the counter, a glass case displayed an assortment of pastries, their icing glistening invitingly. “Do you think it was really an accident? The mayor’s fall, I mean.” “Honestly? With everything he’s been juggling lately, it wouldn’t surprise me if someone lost their temper.” A soft clinking sound came from the cash register as a customer paid. “But in this town? We’re all practically related. Who would want to hurt him?” A small bell jingled as the door opened and a chilly breeze stirred the napkins on the counter. “People surprise you. Maybe it wasn’t meant to be serious. More like a warning.” The wooden floor creaked as footsteps moved closer. “You don’t really believe that, do you? Tom’s always been careful, cautious almost to a fault.” “Exactly. Which makes him an easy target for someone tired of playing by the rules.” The scent of warm apple pie filled the air, and silence lingered between them for a moment, heavy with unspoken questions.