Run: 2026-02-16-01KHM606T7HEM3C5CR6PECN5EA

The bell above the bakery door jingled, announcing another arrival. Warm cinnamon and sugar lingered in the air, wrapping the cozy space in comfort. “You’re here early. Thought you slept in on Saturdays.” “Couldn’t. Got woken up by Mrs. Peabody’s cat yowling under my window again.” “Ah. Well, lucky for you, I just pulled out a fresh batch of apple turnovers.” “You’re a lifesaver. I swear, if anyone says small towns are peaceful, they’ve never lived next to a drama queen of a cat.” “Or dealt with the Bake-Off Committee. Mildred practically had steam coming out of her ears yesterday when I suggested store-bought frosting.” “You didn’t.” “I absolutely did. And you should’ve seen her face.” “I’d pay money to see that. Though probably not as much as I’ll pay for these turnovers.” “Consider it payment for your suffering—cat-induced or otherwise.” “Throw in a coffee, and we’ll call it even.” “Deal. But only because constructs?” “Because you’re secretly a softie.” “And you’re trouble.”