Run: 2026-02-25-01KJBHJ8E4TX5D17TK2DPBE2XZ

The brass bell above the door chimed softly, cutting through the heavy scent of yeast and burnt sugar. Fine flour dusted the white counter like fresh snow. "You heard about the mayor's prize pumpkin?" "Saw the police tape myself. Tragic." "More than tragic. Someone stole the seeds. All of them." A tray of warm scones slid across the warm marble. "Blueberry? They're still fresh." "I don't want scones. I want to know who had access." "Everyone had access. The back door was unlatched." "That's what I'm afraid of." Leaning in, eyes darted toward the frosted window. "Old Silas was seen near the garden shed Tuesday night." "Silas? He hasn't left his porch since his hip went out." "Maybe he borrowed a cane. Or maybe he didn't leave at all." A coffee cup clinked against a saucer, the sound sharp in the quiet shop. "You think he's capable of sabotage?" "I think someone in this town is capable of anything if the prize money is high enough." Hands wiped on an apron, leaving a stark white streak. "Keep your head down. The pie contest starts tomorrow, and the winner gets the seed packet." "Then I suppose I better buy a ticket."