Run: 2026-09-02-01M1HGYRAFHRVQCT6YWFKX1AE2

The rain beaded on the bakery window, making the cinnamon buns glow under glass. Flour dusted the counter where two coffees sat cooling. “Did you see the note on the ovens?” “I saw it. It was gone before anyone else came in.” “Before? I thought you were opening the register.” “The register can wait. Someone wanted the town to know.” “Know what?” “That the missing key was never lost. That it was taken.” “You shouldn’t say such things here.” “And let everyone keep eating under the sign ‘Fresh Starts’?” “Someone has been moving the proof.” “Who?” “Whoever left the lavender sachet in the flour bin.” “That’s not a clue.” “It’s a signature.” “Like the rosemary in the apron pocket?” “Like the crumbs arranged by the back door.” “Maybe it was just a mouse.” “A mouse leaves tracks, not a riddle.” Steam hissed. “Should we call Sheriff Bea?” “Not yet.” “You want this to get worse?” “I want whoever did it to return while the door is open and the smell of butter is hiding their fear.” “That’s either courage or trouble.” “In this town, those are often the same recipe.” The bell over the door jingled. Neither of them moved.