Run: 2026-03-18-01KM0A9RBVZDEBMHA81FZVZMHA

The bell over the bakery door gave its cheerful jingle just as Nora slid a tray of lemon scones into the display case. Outside, Maple Street was damp from an early drizzle, and the windows were fogged with the scent of cinnamon and sugar. “You’re baking before sunrise again?” “I’m trying to convince myself this is a charming lifestyle choice.” “It is charming. Exhausting, but charming.” Nora laughed and wiped flour from her cheek with the back of her hand. “You say that because you only have to eat the results.” “Someone has to do the important work.” The familiar voice belonged to Eli Mercer, the town librarian, who was standing by the register with a paper bag in one hand and a suspiciously curious expression in the other. “Coffee cake?” he asked. “Blueberry streusel. Still warm.” “Dangerous.” “Only to your willpower.” He opened the bag and peered inside. “Mrs. Wainwright was in here yesterday.” Nora paused. “Was she?” “She mentioned seeing something odd behind the bakery last night.” The warm hum of the kitchen seemed to thin. “Odd how?” “Like someone trying your back door.” Nora looked toward the little pane of glass in the rear hallway, where rain tapped softly against the frame. “Well,” she said, reaching for the rolling pin, “then I suppose today’s special comes with a little mystery.”