Run: 2026-09-02-01M1HAXPHNYVEARYTVMKF5Q7ZW

The bell above the door of Buttercream Lane Bakery stirred a chorus of copper chimes. Morning light slid across trays of cinnamon twists, and the air smelled of brown butter and secrets. “You’re late, and you never bring your own apron anymore.” “I didn’t come for aprons. I came for the blackberry tart.” “We don’t have blackberry tart. Not since the jam went missing.” “Missing? You locked it in the pantry yourself.” “Then someone has learned to walk through walls. Or through Mrs. Finch’s cat flap.” “That cat has alibis.” “Cats always do. But this one was seen near the flour bin at dawn, with purple on his whiskers.” “Purple? That’s not blackberry jam. That’s elderberry ink.” The oven ticked. A tray rattled softly, though neither of them moved. Outside, the parade clock struck nine, and the display case shivered faintly. “You think the recipe book was taken too?” “I think the ink stain on the counter matches the one on Mayor Holloway’s gloves.” “Careful. In this town, accusing the mayor means ending up with a very dry scone.” “Then I’d better take the last blueberry muffin before he gets here.” “It was reserved for the sheriff.” “Perfect. Let him wonder.”