Run: 2026-03-18-01KM08HN2YNW83TA4EAEV3FJYS

The bell above the door jingled as the morning sun spilled in, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air. Behind the counter, golden croissants gleamed under the warm lights. One customer sipped her coffee, eyeing the cinnamon rolls with longing. "Business has been good lately, hasn’t it?" "I can’t complain. Though I do wonder who’s been coming in early, helping themselves to my sourdough starter." "Maybe it’s just a hungry raccoon." "Raccoons don’t leave footprints in flour. And they don’t ask for almond milk in their lattes." The customer raised an eyebrow. "Almond milk?" "Every morning, same order. But the starter’s been dwindling. I’d bet my last baguette it’s them." She paused, stirring her coffee thoughtfully. "You ever think about hiring an assistant? Someone to keep an eye on things?" "The bank account disagrees with that suggestion. Besides, I don’t need outside help catching a thief." The customer chuckled. "Well, if you need a hand, let me know. I’ve got time on my hands these days." A soft smile played on the baker’s lips as she wiped her hands on her apron. "That’s kind of you. Maybe I’ll take you up on that."