Run: 2026-04-27-01KQ723J5KRF3P9BZN9JB1N1K4

The bell above the door chimed, scattering flour dust in the morning sun. Sunlight pooled across the checkered floorboards, catching dust motes dancing above the rising dough. “You’re early.” A wooden counter scraped against the floorboards as a cloth swiped away spilled sugar. “And you’re hiding something under that recipe card.” The clink of a cast-iron tray echoed from the back. “Would that I had a secret worth burying. Just the usual yeast and quiet.” A draft slipped through the cracked window, carrying the scent of damp earth and burning cinnamon. “The usual doesn’t account for three missing loaves of rye or the heavy padlock on the pantry door.” “I told Deputy Hayes it was just the stray cats.” “Cats don’t leave perfect muddy footprints in the sugar bin.” A soft sigh drifted from the ovens. “You’ve been chasing shadows again. It’s Tuesday already. The rye’s been gone for three days, and something shifted in this town. I won’t pretend it’s just the weather.” Ceramic met wood. “Then we’ll find it before the noon crowd arrives.” “Agreed. First, pour the coffee. Then, we check the cellar.”