Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY8BFQWS6Q543V9HM8MJSR2

The bell above the bakery door jingled as a gust of crisp autumn air rushed in. Warm cinnamon and vanilla scents wrapped around the counter like a hug. "Three almond croissants, please," said a voice with a hint of hesitation. "And a coffee—black, no sugar." The baker, arms dusted with flour, slid the pastries across the counter. "You look like you’ve been through a storm." A chuckle escaped. "Just another Tuesday in Maplewood." "Funny you say that. The mayor’s missing again, and this time, the sheriff’s office is asking questions. Rumor has it someone saw him near here last night." The voice hesitated. "I didn’t see anything. But if I did, I’d tell the sheriff myself." The baker leaned in slightly. "You ever think about what he might’ve been up to? That old ledger in his office—you know, the one with all the numbers that don’t add up?" A sigh. "I’ve thought about it. But I’m not the kind of person who snoops." "Neither am I," the baker said, wiping her hands on her apron. "But if you *do* hear anything—well, you know where to find me." She slid a small notepad across the counter. "My number’s on the back. Just in case." The voice nodded, tucking the notepad into their pocket. "Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind."