Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY9RSMP865K9VH3SVDXE6VZ

Sun slants through gingham-draped windows, gilding the crusted tops of sourdough loaves stacked by the chipped ceramic register. The stand mixer’s hum fades, leaving only the faint crackle of a pilot light and the sweet tang of burnt caramel from a forgotten apricot tart cooling on the counter. A dusting of powdered sugar coats the wooden table where two mugs of steamy chamomile sit half-empty. “Did you notice the honey cake display’s latch was pried last night?” “Thought it was just the old hinge giving out—Mabel’s been nagging the town council to fund a replacement for months.” “Check the back shelf. The silver locket she kept tucked in the top cake’s frosting is gone—her mother’s heirloom, the one for Lila’s graduation.” “I found a smudge of black licorice on the latch. Only the general store sells that imported brand—you know who swears by it.” “Teddy? But he owed Mabel a favor for bailing his dog out of the pound last winter.” “Favors fade. He’s been short on cash since the lumber mill laid him off.” The clink of a mug hitting the table echoes. “We should check his bike lean-to after closing—he always leaves his licorice stashes there, hidden under a tarpaulin.” A breeze stirs the bakery’s door chime, carrying the distant jingle of a ice cream truck that doesn’t belong this late in the season.