Run: 2026-10-07-01M4ASRZYZM1Y0M03W8KNNGGEQ

The bell above the door jingled as the scent of cinnamon and fresh bread wrapped around them. "Morning. The usual?" "Please. And maybe one of those new almond croissants—if they’re as good as the rumors say." "Rumors? In this town, everything’s a rumor until it’s a scandal." "Speaking of scandals, did you hear about the mayor’s garden gnome?" "Stolen again? That’s the third time this month." "Third? I only heard about the second." "Well, the first time was hush-hush. He didn’t want it getting out that someone took it right off his porch while he was inside watching *Jeopardy!*" "Maybe he should invest in a security camera instead of another gnome." "Or maybe the gnome’s the one doing the stealing. Ever think of that?" A laugh bubbled up. "Now *that’s* a rumor worth spreading." The croissant was slid across the counter, golden and flaky. "On the house. For the town’s best gossip." "Deal. But only if you throw in a black coffee." "Always." The machine hissed as the cup filled. "So, who’s your money on for the gnome thief?" "Hmm. My bet’s on Old Man Higgins. He’s been eyeing that gnome since the mayor got it."