Run: 2026-02-16-01KHK1D9E0NF3G2FXZ6E3ASX9E

The scent of cinnamon and rich burnt sugar hung heavy in the air. Flour dusted the counter like fresh snow. Steam hissed softly from the coffee machine. "Did you hear about the mayor?" "Hard not to. Whole town's talking now." Glaze was brushed over a dozen donuts, shiny and sweet. "They found his ledger in the compost bin behind here." "Behind the bakery?" "Right next to the sourdough starter disposal." The brush clattered into the sink. "That's impossible. I locked the back gate myself." "Someone picked the lock. Or had a key." A sigh escaped into the warm room. "You think it's Arthur? He's been acting very strange since the festival." "Arthur loves his secrets. But would he risk murder over a recipe?" "It wasn't just a recipe. It was the old land deed." The oven timer dinged. Hands wiped on a floral apron. "Keep your voice down. The walls have ears." "Always do in this town. Just tell me one thing." "What?" "Are you going to sell him the blueberry scone?" "Not until he pays what he owes." The bell above the door jingled. A customer tapped a foot by the register. Both turned immediately, smiles plastered on like icing.