Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYB8093HGGBZMJ54J6Q7KYG

The morning sun spilled through the bakery’s windows, casting golden dust over the counter where a fresh batch of cinnamon rolls cooled. The scent of vanilla and warm butter filled the air as the bell above the door chimed. "Another coffee, then?" The barista’s voice was warm, laced with the kind of patience only small-town folks seem to have. "Black, please. And could I trouble you for one of those apple turnovers? The ones with the lattice crust." "Coming right up. You’re a regular." "Hardly. Just a visitor passing through." The barista slid a cup across the counter, steam curling into the air. "Passing through or just avoiding something?" A pause. The clink of a spoon against a mug echoed in the quiet. "Something like that." The barista leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "Well, if you’re looking for a place to stay, the inn down the street’s got a vacancy. And if you’re avoiding someone, I won’t ask questions. But if you need help, you know where to find me." A faint smile touched the visitor’s lips. "I’ll keep that in mind." She took a sip of coffee, the warmth seeping into her fingers. "Though I doubt I’ll need it." The barista raised an eyebrow. "Doubt’s a dangerous thing, especially in a town like this. People notice things." The visitor glanced around, at the familiar faces sipping tea, the way the light caught the dust motes. "Maybe I’ll just enjoy the coffee for now." "Smart move." The barista slid the turnover across the counter. "But if you change your mind, you’ve got a friend here."