Run: 2026-05-31-01KSYXCE0KF4WTTGBXKYETASWE

The bell above the door jingled as the morning light spilled across the flour-dusted counter. "You're here early. The cinnamon rolls aren't even out yet." "I didn't come for the rolls. I came because I heard something last night." "Oh? Pour yourself some coffee and tell me. The pot's fresh." "It was just past midnight. I couldn't sleep, so I was sitting by my window. And I saw someone leaving the Hargrove house." "At midnight? Are you certain it wasn't just Walter taking out the bins?" "Walter's been in Florida for two weeks. The house is supposed to be empty." "Empty? Then who—" "That's exactly what I've been wondering. Whoever it was, they were carrying something. A box, maybe. Tucked under one arm, moving quick toward the alley." "You should tell Sheriff Daniels." "And say what? That I saw a shadow? He'll think I've been into the sherry again." "Then we'll need proof. Something more than shadows." "We?" "You don't think I'm letting you poke around that house alone, do you? Besides, I've got a key. Margaret gave me one years ago, for watering her ferns." "You're suggesting we break in?" "Not break in. We have a key. That's practically an invitation."