Run: 2026-03-09-01KK9PTAP5K9DACN7T4X3KVQ5P

The bell over the bakery door gave a polite jingle, and a gust of October air stirred the scent of cinnamon, coffee, and rising bread. Behind the glass case, maple pecan scones sat in neat rows, untouched except for the one with a perfect wedge missing. “You’re early.” “You say that like it’s a crime.” “In this town, arriving before the coffee is brewed might be.” “Then lock me up with a cruller.” Flour dust shimmered in the morning light. A tray of blueberry muffins cooled on the counter beside a chipped blue sugar bowl. “You moved the pumpkin loaf.” “I didn’t.” “It was on the left last night.” “It’s on the right now.” “That’s exactly the sort of observation that starts investigations.” “There’s also a muddy footprint by the back door.” “That’s less charming than misplaced pumpkin loaf.” “And the donation jar is gone.” The espresso machine hissed like it had overheard too much. “Gone gone?” “Gone enough that Mrs. Bellamy will make it everybody’s business by noon.” “Maybe you tucked it away while closing.” “I remember flour, invoices, and burning my thumb on the tray. I do not remember hiding a jar full of singles and quarters.” A pause settled between the pastry shelves. “The footprint’s small.” “So is Mrs. Bellamy.” “She uses lavender hand cream. Smell that.” “Buttered rum frosting.” “Exactly. Someone reached over the counter.” “For money?” “Or for the recipe card tucked beneath it.” “That ginger snap recipe would absolutely be worth stealing.”