Run: 2026-07-09-01KX4055M6THDNH9P2YFCKTFST

The bell over the bakery door jingled just as the first tray of cinnamon rolls came from the oven. Warm sugar and butter drifted through the shop, fogging the front windows against the gray morning. “You’re early.” “So are you. And you have flour on your sleeve.” “I’ve been working since five.” “That explains the flour. It doesn’t explain the missing wedding ring.” The baker froze, tongs hovering above the tray. “Keep your voice down.” “There are only three people here, and one of them is a sleeping terrier.” “The ring was on the counter last night.” “Along with the cashbox.” “The cashbox is still there.” “Exactly. Whoever took the ring didn’t want money.” A fresh batch hissed softly as it cooled. Outside, a delivery truck rumbled past the old brick storefront. “You think someone came in after closing?” “I think someone had a key.” “No one has a key except me, my sister, and—” “The new dishwasher.” “He quit yesterday.” “After asking whether the back door alarm worked.” The baker set down the tongs. “I thought he was making conversation.” “Most people ask about the weather. Suspicious people ask about alarms.” A sharp metallic clatter came from the kitchen. They stared at each other. “That was the mixing bowl.” “It was on the top shelf.” “Then perhaps your missing ring isn’t the only thing that came back.” The terrier woke, growled, and trotted toward the kitchen. “Lock the front door.” “And you?” “I’m getting the rolling pin.”