Run: 2026-09-03-01M1KAJBH2E2RGJS0NZYVA6NSD

The warm scent of cinnamon and yeast filled the air, but the usual comfort of the Sugar Whisk felt thin. A tray of scones cooled untouched on the counter, and the striped awnings outside drooped under the morning drizzle. “You’ve heard, then.” “Half the town’s heard. Mabel saw the lights on at the old flour mill after midnight.” “Mabel sees raccoons and calls them prowlers. That’s not evidence.” “She also saw the sheriff’s car outside Edna’s house this morning. And you know Edna never misses her Monday sourdough.” A pause. The cash register hummed. Somewhere in the back, a mixing bowl clattered. “This isn’t about missing bread.” “No. It’s about the recipe box. The one with the chocolate cherry scone recipe. It’s gone.” “Gone? Or borrowed?” “Edna would never lend that recipe. Not after what happened at the county fair.” “Then who would take it?” “Someone who wanted to win more than they wanted to stay friends. That’s who.” The bell above the door jingled, and the two sets of eyes turned toward the entrance. A damp umbrella dripped onto the welcome mat. “Did you see who just walked in?” “I think we’re about to find out.”