Run: 2026-02-26-01KJCRZQRP62YQGX8PWSCGHW8D

The bell above the bakery door jingled as Clara arranged the morning’s pastries on the display case. A faint scent of cinnamon and fresh bread filled the air. She glanced up to see Henry lingering by the counter, his eyes scanning the shelves. “Still using that old recipe for your apple tarts?” he asked, voice low but warm. Clara smiled, dusting her hands on her apron. “It’s the only one that keeps the customers coming back.” Henry nodded, leaning closer. “You know, some folks say you’re the reason this town still feels like home.” She chuckled softly. “Home’s a lot of flour and sugar, really.” He glanced at the window, where sunlight painted golden stripes across the floorboards. “I heard Mrs. Pembroke’s cat went missing again.” Clara’s smile faded. “That’s terrible. Did you see anything?” “Not yet,” he admitted. “But I’m heading out later. You think she’ll come back?” Clara considered, then shook her head. “Maybe. Cats have a way of disappearing just when you need them most.” Henry gave a small laugh. “Just like us, hiding behind our recipes and routines until something unexpected happens.” Clara looked at him, eyes twinkling. “And maybe that’s exactly what we need.”