Run: 2026-10-20-01M5C66T6X5ZRHHWF4MDBB5YD2

The bell above the bakery door chimed, and the scent of nutmeg and butter wrapped around the newcomer like a scarf. A tray of lemon tarts sat cooling on the counter, each crowned with a tiny sugared violet. “You’re early. The coffee’s still gurgling.” “Early is the only way to get one of those raspberry swirls before the church choir descends.” “Then you’ll want to hear this before they do. Someone borrowed my grandmother’s recipe box last night. Left the lid open, and the card for the county-fair crumb cake is gone.” “Gone? Not misplaced?” “I’ve searched every flour bin and apron pocket. It wasn’t a ghost, either—the back door was unlocked and there’s a footprint in the powdered sugar.” “That’s a bold thief.” “Or a desperate baker with a grudge against blue ribbons.” “Good heavens. Should we call the sheriff?” “Not yet. I’ve got a hunch. Whoever took it will need to bake it, and there’s only one oven in town that can caramelize the topping just right.” A beat. “Mine.” “Exactly. So, coffee first?” “Absolutely. Then we set a trap.” Outside, the church choir’s first soprano began to sing. Somewhere in the alley, a spoon clinked against a bowl.