Run: 2026-05-10-01KR8WWQD5734QBM8ABTAERNHB

The scent of toasted cinnamon and burnt sugar hung heavy in the air, clinging to the flour-dusted lace curtains. Outside, the rain tapped a frantic rhythm against the storefront glass, blurring the cobblestone street into a smear of grey. “You’re shivering, and it’s not just the draft from the door.” “It’s a long walk from the manor in this weather, and the gate was locked again.” “The lock has been rusted shut for a decade. Nobody uses that path anymore.” “I think someone does. I saw a light flickering in the carriage house, moving fast, like a lantern held by someone running.” “There’s no electricity out there, and the roof collapsed two winters ago.” “Exactly. So, tell me, who was holding the lantern?” “Keep your voice down. Mrs. Gable is sorting the scones near the register, and she has ears like a hawk.” “She’s looking at us right now, isn’t she?” “Don’t turn around. Just take a bite of your muffin and pretend we’re discussing the humidity. If she knows you were near the estate, you’ll never get a straight answer out of her again.”