Run: 2026-04-24-01KQ0N4S1BXT2XHP2NQPQN7HJ7

The bell over the bakery door gave its usual cheerful jingle, though the rain outside had turned the square the color of cold tea. Warm cinnamon and lemon sugar wrapped around the little shop, softening even the sight of the flour-dusted footprint on the black-and-white tiles. “You’re early.” “You left a note under my scone.” “I left a receipt.” “With the words ‘come before opening’ written on the back.” “That does sound like me.” Behind the counter, trays of currant buns cooled beside a three-tiered wedding cake, its frosting roses as perfect as porcelain. On the lowest tier, tucked beneath a sugared petal, glinted something silver. “Is that Mrs. Pritchard’s missing brooch?” “I was hoping you’d say it was a decorative almond.” “In the shape of a swan, with emerald eyes?” “Unusual almond.” A gust rattled the windowpanes. Across the street, the clock on the town hall struck seven. “She accused half the garden club of stealing it yesterday.” “And then ordered twelve lemon tarts, paid in exact change, and left without her umbrella.” “Who picked up the cake after closing?” “No one was meant to.” “Then someone has a key.” “Or a sweet tooth and poor judgment.” “Don’t touch it.” “I wasn’t going to.” “You’re holding a pastry fork.” “For courage.”