The bell above the door jingled as the morning sun filtered through lace curtains, casting delicate patterns on the wooden floor. The scent of freshly baked bread and cinnamon rolls wrapped the room in a warm embrace. “Another blueberry muffin, please. You really should bottle that recipe; it’s got magic in it.” “Magic? That’s just Mrs. Langley’s secret ingredient—and a dash of stubbornness.” A smile tugged at the corner of the worn apron. “Though I might consider bottling it if it helps with the rent.” “Speaking of secrets, did you hear about the Mayor’s missing cat? Fancy that—Sneakers, vanished from right behind the bakery.” “Funny thing, I saw a tangle of blue fur by the old oak yesterday. Could be Sneakers or maybe just a stray.” “If it turns out you’re right, you should add ‘pet detective’ to your resume.” “I’ll take that, but only if you stop calling me ‘the baker with a knack for nosing around.’ Not everyone appreciates a mystery in their morning coffee.” “Admit it, the town needs a little spice beyond cinnamon rolls.” “Maybe so. But for now, I’ll stick to baking.”