Run: 2026-03-18-01KM0A79035D7MK0WETYP0T54K

The bell over the bakery door gave a cheerful jingle, and warm air wrapped around Mara as soon as she stepped inside. Cinnamon, butter, and fresh bread made the whole place feel like a hug. “You’re late.” “Only by three minutes.” “Three minutes is enough to ruin a batch.” Mara laughed and tucked her scarf into her coat pocket. “If your batch is so fragile, maybe it needs a stronger baker.” “Watch it. These scones are holding this town together.” Behind the counter, trays of golden pastries cooled beneath a lattice of sunlight. Mr. Bell, flour dusting his eyebrows, slid a cherry tart into a box and glared with theatrical severity. “You didn’t hear the news?” “What news?” “The mayor’s missing his breakfast meeting.” Mara blinked. “Missing?” “Apparently.” He lowered his voice, though the bakery was empty except for an elderly woman selecting rye loaves. “He was supposed to meet the council at eight. Never showed.” “That doesn’t sound like a crime.” “No, but he also left his hat on my counter.” “So?” “So he never forgets his hat.” Mara glanced at the navy felt hat resting beside the register. Something about it sat wrong in the warm, ordinary morning. “You’re thinking what I’m thinking?” she asked. “I’m thinking my apple turnovers are going to go cold if we don’t solve this quickly.” “And I’m thinking you’re impossible.” “Only before coffee.”