Run: 2026-02-16-01KHM5GZNKX4C6C0EEC7G3YGET

The bell over the door chimed, letting in a gust of autumn air. "Mind if I join you? This corner table has the best view of the lemon bars." "Only if you promise not to judge me for ordering a second scone." "Your secret is safe with me. The cranberry-orange?" "Pumpkin spice, with extra clove. Francine's outdone herself this year." "She always does. Something's different today, though. Did you notice the 'Closed Tomorrow' sign?" "I did. A sudden family emergency, she said. Very sudden. She was frosting a three-tiered wedding cake for the Henderson wedding just this morning." "And now she's suddenly closed on a Friday? That cake is still in the case. Look, the little sugar dove is slightly crooked, like she was interrupted." "You think she was?" "The register drawer was open when I went to pay. Just a sliver. Francine never leaves it open. She's meticulous." "Like someone left in a hurry." "Or was made to leave. That sugar dove isn't just crooked. It's cracked clean in two."