Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYA6WBFYM6AH2T28KF7XC5E

The bell above the bakery door tinkled softly as morning light filtered through lace curtains, illuminating trays of golden croissants and cinnamon scones. Flour dusted the wooden counter, where a half-eaten apple turnover sat forgotten amid steaming coffee mugs. "Did you hear about old Mr. Hargrove's antique watch? Gone from his nightstand, just like that." A pause, the clink of a spoon against porcelain. "Vanished without a trace? In this town? Everyone leaves their doors unlocked." "Exactly. But get this—tracks in the garden mulch, leading straight to the creek. Like someone was in a hurry to ditch something." The aroma of vanilla swirled as a fresh batch emerged from the oven. "You think it's tied to the festival thefts? Those missing pies from last week's bake-off?" A low chuckle. "Pies are one thing, but a family heirloom? No. My money's on that new fellow at the post office. Shifty eyes, always asking about valuables." Steam rose, curling like secrets. "We'll keep an eye out. Nothing escapes Willow Creek's watchful noses—especially not with a fresh loaf in hand." The conversation drifted to lighter fare, but the puzzle lingered, sweet as the air itself.