Run: 2026-02-25-01KJ94SHMN8JSAHV3FX5KCNYJN

The bell above the door of "The Sugar Spoon" tinkled, a cheerful sound that contrasted with the faint unease settling in the warm, cinnamon-scented air. Flour dust motes danced in the sunbeams slanting through the window, illuminating trays of golden croissants and jewel-toned fruit tarts. "Morning, Agnes." "Ah, Clara. Just in time for the last of the blueberry muffins. Still warm." "Perfect. Though, my appetite is a bit dulled by what I saw coming here." "Oh? Nothing so dire as to spoil a blueberry muffin, I hope?" "Hard to say. I had a late walk, and I noticed a rather peculiar fellow on Elm Street." "Peculiar how?" "He was peering into the windows of the old Blackwood place. Not just a casual glance, mind you. More like… studying them." "The Blackwood place? But it's been empty for months. Such a shame, too. Used to be the most vibrant house on the street." "He was wearing a dark coat, even though it's hardly chilly. And he seemed rather nervous, kept looking over his shoulder." "Nerves aren't usually a good sign in this town, are they?" "Certainly not. I just hope he wasn't casing the joint for that valuable Persian rug the Blackwoods were so proud of." "Heavens! Well, perhaps a strong cup of Earl Grey will help you ponder the mysteries of Elm Street while you enjoy that muffin."