Run: 2026-02-20-01KHXQJ7N372TYTHXHQ6SY54XD

The bell above the door jingled as the morning rush began to thin. The scent of cinnamon and butter hung thick in the air, mingling with the low hum of conversation. “You’re out early for a Tuesday.” “Couldn’t sleep. Thought fresh pastries might help.” A chuckle. “Or at least distract you from whatever’s keeping you up.” “Maybe. Or maybe I just wanted to see if you’d finally perfected that almond croissant.” “Oh, so that’s it. You’re just here to critique my baking.” “Absolutely. And to report back to the town gossip.” “You’re terrible.” “But you love me.” A pause. The clink of a coffee cup being set down. “Fair enough. But if you’re going to be here this early, you should at least try the new cardamom loaf.” “Is that a bribe?” “Call it an incentive.” Footsteps shuffled toward the display case. A sigh. “You know, I should’ve known better than to come in here hungry.” “Too late now. Take a seat. I’ll bring it over.” The scrape of a chair on the tile floor. The rustle of a newspaper. “You’re spoiling me.” “Someone’s got to.”