Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY8XFG1MYAAQDHJM4MEQC1Q

The aroma of cinnamon rolls and fresh-baked bread filled the cozy confines of Maple Street Bakery, where sunlight streamed through lace-curtained windows onto wooden counters dusted with flour. A bell tinkled as the door swung open, but the two women inside paid it little mind, their heads bent over a tray of frosted cupcakes. "Those footprints by the old mill—muddy, size ten, I'd say. Not from any local I've seen." "Size ten? That's Mr. Hargrove's, but he swears he was fishing all night. And that missing locket? It screams foul play." "Foul play in Elmwood? Next you'll say the mayor's cat is in on it." A chuckle echoed off the tin ceiling. "Don't laugh. Whiskers was spotted near the scene, fur all ruffled. But seriously, if it wasn't Hargrove, who left those tracks? And why steal a locket with no value?" "Sentimental value, maybe. Or hiding a secret. Remember the riddle in the newspaper? 'What shines but doesn't glow?' Could be a clue." "Riddles and footprints. This town's turning into a puzzle box. Pass me that sifter— these cupcakes need more sparkle if we're solving mysteries over tea." "Tea it is. But first, let's check the alley. I heard scratching last night." The door creaked again, carrying whispers of intrigue on the breeze.