Run: 2026-02-17-01KHNFZXMSB8NM3GZT7D902W4V

The morning sun filtered through the lace curtains, casting a warm glow over the pastel walls of Willow Creek Bakery. The smell of fresh sourdough and cinnamon swirled in the air, mingling with the faint hint of vanilla from the glass display case. A small bell chimed as the door opened, and a woman in a faded cardigan stepped inside, her eyes scanning the chalkboard menu. She smiled and wiped her hands on her apron. "Back again, Lila? The usual?" "I can't resist your blueberry scones. And maybe a side of gossip." "Only if you promise not to spread it too far. I've heard the town council is worried about that missing locket." "The one from the old mill? I saw the detective hovering near the back alley yesterday." "Detective Hayes? He was asking about flour deliveries. Something about a broken lock." "Maybe it's just a coincidence. Still, the whole bakery feels a little less cozy when there's a mystery brewing." She slid a warm scone onto a ceramic plate. "Here’s to solving it over coffee. Cheers to small-town secrets." The two women clinked their cups, the steam curling between them like a promise. The scent lingered, promising more whispered secrets.