Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY984W5VH1838PMQ657RAY4

The aroma of cinnamon scones and fresh coffee enveloped the cozy nook of Millie's Bakery, where sunlight filtered through lace curtains onto checkered tablecloths. Flour-dusted counters gleamed behind the glass case, and a chalkboard announced the daily special: blueberry crumble pie. "Did you hear about Mayor Hargrove? Found stiff as a board in his armchair last night." "Poisoned, they say. Right after the town picnic. That pie he devoured—remember how he raved about it?" "From here? No ma'am, ours don't kill. But Ethel's entry in the contest was suspiciously absent." "Ethel? The one who argued with him over the zoning vote? Her rhubarb pie looked perfect, but smelled off." "Exactly. And her apron had a purple stain—huckleberry juice? Hargrove's lips were blue." "Shh, not so loud. Millie might overhear." "Millie's the best sleuth in Willow Creek. Bet she'll bake clues into tomorrow's loaves." A tray clattered nearby, steam rising from apple turnovers. Outside, autumn leaves swirled past the window, whispering secrets of the small town's unraveling mystery.