Run: 2026-03-12-01KKHZD0H4M31MG08M67FW9P8T

The bell above the bakery door gave a cheerful jingle as warm cinnamon air wrapped around her like a hug. Flour dusted the wooden counters in soft drifts, and the glass case glowed with golden croissants and jewel-toned berry tarts. “I still can’t believe you found another one behind the flour bin,” she said, sliding a fresh blueberry muffin across the counter. “Third button this month. Same mother-of-pearl kind. Someone’s losing their cardigan faster than I can keep up with the morning rush.” “Or they’re leaving clues. Like in those books you pretend not to read.” A soft laugh. “I only read them for the recipes. But this button… it’s too pretty to be an accident. Almost like it was placed there on purpose.” She wiped her hands on her striped apron and leaned closer. “You think it’s connected to Mrs. Abernathy’s missing brooch?” “Same pearl. Same bakery. Same week she claims someone rearranged her entire garden at midnight.” The morning light slanted through the lace curtains, catching on the small white button now resting between them like a secret. “Another mystery muffin, then?” “Only if it comes with two forks. We have thinking to do.”