Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY8W6QQJ2D85CCY4GPKHQM2

The bell above the door jingled as the morning chill slipped inside, carrying the scent of cinnamon and buttery pastry. The countertop gleamed under the warm glow of the bakery lights, dusted with flour like a fresh snowfall. "You’re late. Again." "Traffic on Main was a nightmare—someone’s cat got loose in the middle of the road, and half the town stopped to watch." "Typical. You’d think after all these years, they’d learn to keep their pets indoors." A pause. The clink of a coffee cup being set down, steam curling into the air. "Speaking of typical… did you hear about the new sheriff’s investigation? Someone’s been breaking into the old mill at night." "Finally. Took them long enough. I told Mayor Whitmore last week—those crates in the back room weren’t just ‘old inventory.’" "Maybe this time they’ll actually find something. Last sheriff just laughed when I mentioned the strange lights." "Or maybe they’re all in on it. You know how these small towns work." A muffled snort. The sound of a muffin being unwrapped, the rich aroma filling the space between them. "Either way, I’m glad someone’s paying attention. Even if it’s about time."