Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYB2FNY1YBNB66CTKBBS165

The bell above the bakery door jingled as a gust of crisp autumn air rushed in. Warm cinnamon and vanilla scents wrapped around her like a hug. "Three almond croissants, please," the voice said, smooth and a little hesitant. "And a coffee—black, no sugar." She slid the pastries across the counter, their golden crusts catching the morning light. "First time here?" "Something like that." The stranger hesitated, then added, "I’m looking for a certain kind of tea. Something herbal. For headaches." She nodded, reaching under the counter for a small tin. "Lavender and chamomile. My grandmother used to swear by it." She tapped the tin lightly. "But if it doesn’t help, there’s always the gingerbread—it’s supposed to settle the stomach too." A faint smile touched the stranger’s lips. "That sounds perfect. Thank you." She rang up the order, her fingers brushing against the countertop. "You’re welcome. And if you ever need more than tea or pastries, just ask. This town’s got a way of helping when it needs to." The stranger’s gaze lingered on her for a moment before they turned to leave. "I’ll keep that in mind." The bell chimed again as the door swung shut behind them, leaving only the quiet hum of the espresso machine and the faint scent of baking bread.