Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYAGBYCWHSCCK26Z83THFM2

The bell above the door of “Buttercup’s Bliss” jingled a cheerful greeting, quickly swallowed by the comforting aroma of cinnamon and yeast. A dusting of flour coated the counter, reflecting the afternoon sun in a hazy glow. “You’re early,” a voice remarked, a hint of amusement in the tone. “Couldn’t resist,” came the immediate reply. “The apricot scones are calling my name. And frankly, I needed a distraction.” A small, perfectly formed scone was placed before the other person, accompanied by a miniature ramekin of clotted cream and strawberry jam. “Always a good solution. Though I suspect it’s more than just a distraction.” “Don’t start with the detective talk, please,” the response was clipped. “It’s just… Mrs. Hawthorne’s prize winning pumpkin pie vanished last night. Completely gone. And the local gossip is reaching a fever pitch.” “A vanished pie? Seriously?” There was a genuine note of disbelief. “That’s… remarkably inconvenient.” “Inconvenient is an understatement. It’s a town scandal waiting to happen. And frankly, the sheriff seems more concerned with the state of the rose bushes.” A sigh puffed out, followed by a satisfied bite of the scone. “This is remarkably good, by the way. Almost makes me forget about missing baked goods.”