The Bakery's Secret

Chapter 1: The moveNia stepped out of the bus, the cool November air biting at her cheeks as she adjusted her coat. It was November 26th, the day she'd left behind the quiet life of Kinderwood for the bustling streets of Akola City. Everything felt different—faster, louder, and full of potential. She had dreamed of living in a place where new adventures awaited around every corner, and Akola, with its medium-sized streets and steady hum of life, seemed like the perfect fit. Her new apartment was small—one bedroom, one bathroom, a tiny kitchen that barely fit her microwave, and a compact living room with just enough space for a fold-out couch and her little TV. The balcony, although narrow, offered a pleasant view of the street below. It wasn’t much, but it was hers, and that made all the difference.As Nia unpacked, the sense of a new beginning thrilled her. Her clothes, a neat assortment of white, blue, pink, and yellow shirts, found their place in the small wardrobe. She folded her favorite patterned black skirt over the back of a chair, her waist-length red hair brushing lightly against her shoulders as she worked. With everything in order, she felt the urge to explore. Kinderwood had been charming, but it was small—too small for someone craving excitement. Akola was much larger, with new faces and places around every corner. As she stepped out into the crisp air once again, her heart raced with anticipation. What would she find? She wandered aimlessly through the streets, the cool wind guiding her steps as the city revealed itself to her. Akola was full of quaint little shops, coffee houses with warm yellow lights glowing in the windows, and bustling street vendors selling everything from roasted chestnuts to scarves. The smell of baked goods drifted through the air, comforting and familiar. And then, she saw it. A small bakery, painted in soft pastel colors, with a bold pink-and-white sign that read, "Strawberry Bakery." The shop’s window was decorated with charming illustrations of cakes and pastries. A simple Help Wanted sign hung just inside the window, catching her eye. Curious, Nia paused. She hadn’t planned on job hunting today, but the warm, cozy feeling that seemed to radiate from the bakery was too inviting to ignore. What was the harm in asking? She stepped inside, the little bell over the door jingling softly. The air was sweet with the scent of fresh bread and sugary frosting. Behind the counter stood a young woman with bright pink hair, a stark contrast to the bakery's soft colors. "Hi there!" the woman chirped, her smile sweet but slightly unsettling. "Welcome to Strawberry Bakery. How can I help you?" Nia hesitated for only a moment before speaking. "Hi! I saw the Help Wanted sign, and I was wondering if you’re still hiring." The woman’s eyes lit up. "We are! I’m Strawberry, the owner. What’s your name?" "Nia," she replied with a smile, feeling the warmth of the bakery soak into her bones. "Nice to meet you, Nia! You’re in luck. I could really use the help." Strawberry leaned closer, her tone dropping to a whisper, though the grin never left her face. "But there’s only one rule you’ve got to remember if you’re going to work here." Nia blinked, intrigued. "What’s that?" Strawberry's smile widened, and her voice took on a playful but eerie tone. "Don’t go in my office. Ever." 1

Chapter 1: The move Nia couldn’t shake the strange feeling that Strawberry’s warning gave her, but she pushed it to the back of her mind. The bakery seemed charming, and she needed the job. Plus, the woman seemed friendly, albeit a bit eccentric. “Can you start tomorrow?” Strawberry asked, her pink hair practically glowing under the bakery’s soft lights. “Sure!” Nia replied quickly. “What time?” “Be here at 11 a.m. sharp,” Strawberry said, her voice light and cheerful again. “We’ll get you settled in, and I’ll show you everything you need to know.” Nia nodded, feeling both relieved and excited. “Sounds perfect. I’ll see you tomorrow.” She waved goodbye and stepped out of the bakery, feeling the cool November air on her face once more. It was getting late, and the streets were starting to quiet down as people returned home for the evening. Nia felt a buzz of excitement about her new job and what tomorrow would bring, though Strawberry’s cryptic warning about the office lingered in her thoughts. As she walked back to her apartment, Nia’s mind wandered to all the things she still needed. The apartment was nice, but it was sparse, and with her first paycheck, she could finally start turning it into a home. She hadn’t had time to do much shopping yet, but tomorrow, after her first day at the bakery, she planned to treat herself. Once she arrived home, Nia kicked off her shoes and collapsed onto the couch. Coco, her fluffy little white Pomeranian, leapt up beside her and snuggled against her. “Hey, girl,” Nia said softly, scratching behind the dog’s ears. “Big day tomorrow.” Coco wagged her tail and nestled closer, her tiny paws pressing into Nia’s lap. Nia let out a deep breath, feeling the exhaustion from the day settle in. It wasn’t long before she drifted off to sleep, thoughts of pastries and pink-haired bakers filling her dreams. The next morning, Nia woke up early, eager to start her day. She had plenty of time before her shift at the bakery, so she decided to take advantage of it. After getting ready, she grabbed her purse, clipped Coco’s leash onto her collar, and headed out for a morning of shopping. She needed some essentials to make her new apartment feel more like home. Her first stop was a small, locally owned furniture store she had spotted the day before. It was tucked between a café and a bookstore, its window display featuring a cozy, modern sofa set. The store’s interior was just as inviting—warm lights hung from the ceiling, illuminating rows of neatly arranged furniture. A friendly salesperson greeted her at the door. “Good morning! Looking for something specific?” Nia smiled. “Not really, just browsing. I just moved here and need to pick up a few things for my apartment.” “Well, you’ve come to the right place,” the salesperson said with a grin. “Take your time.” Nia wandered through the store, running her hands over soft cushions and eyeing stylish lamps. She found a small coffee table that would fit perfectly in her living room and a few throw pillows to brighten up her couch. Her apartment was tiny, but she wanted it to feel cozy, a place she could unwind after long days at the bakery. As she moved toward the checkout counter, she spotted a beautiful full-length mirror with an ornate frame that instantly caught her eye. The gold detailing on the frame reminded her of something out of a fairy tale, and she couldn’t resist adding it to her cart. It was a bit of a splurge, but it would complete her bedroom. After finishing up at the furniture shop, Nia dropped her purchases off at her apartment and decided to head to a nearby clothing boutique. She still had plenty of time before her shift at 11, and she wanted to refresh her wardrobe with some new city styles. The boutique was chic but affordable, with rows of neatly arranged clothing in soft, pastel tones. Nia browsed the racks, picking out a few new shirts in her favorite colors—white, light pink, and blue. She also found a sleek black skirt and a pair of patterned pants that immediately caught her attention. As she tried on her finds, she caught a glimpse of herself in the dressing room mirror. Her long red hair fell straight down to her waist, a contrast to the soft tones of the outfits she was trying on. Nia always felt like her hair made her stand out, but she liked it that way. She ended up purchasing a few tops, skirts, and a pair of new Puma sneakers. As she walked out of the boutique, bags in hand, she couldn’t help but feel content. It was a fresh start in a new city, and everything was falling into place. Tomorrow, her new job would mark another exciting chapter. With time to spare, Nia headed back home to drop off her purchases and relax before her first shift at the bakery. She couldn’t wait to see what working there would be like—and what secrets Strawberry Bakery might hold. 2

Chapter 1: The move Back at her apartment, Nia stretched out on the couch with Coco nestled beside her. The morning had gone by quickly, and after her successful shopping spree, she finally had some time to relax. She glanced at the clock on her phone—9:46 a.m. She still had a little over an hour before her first day at Strawberry Bakery. But as she lay there, her mind wandered back to the moment in the dressing room at the boutique. Her reflection had caught her off guard. Her long red hair, flowing down to her waist, was usually a source of pride. But for some reason, today it didn’t feel quite right. It looked flat, almost lifeless, against the backdrop of her new clothes. Nia frowned at the memory. Maybe it was the change in environment, or maybe she just needed something new to match her fresh start in Akola City. Whatever the reason, she suddenly found herself itching for a change. Before she could second-guess herself, Nia grabbed her phone and did a quick search for nearby hair salons. It didn’t take long for her to find one just a few blocks away with decent reviews. “Why not?” she thought to herself. “I’ve got time.” With Coco still curled up on the couch, Nia grabbed her bag and headed back out the door. The salon was a short walk away, and when she stepped inside, she was greeted by the calming scent of lavender and the soft hum of blow dryers. “Welcome!” a stylist called out from behind the counter. “How can we help you today?” Nia ran her fingers through her long red hair and smiled. “I’d like to cut off a couple of inches, and maybe straighten it? I want to try something different.” The stylist, a cheerful woman with short lavender hair, grinned. “Absolutely! Have a seat, and we’ll get started.” As Nia settled into the salon chair, she caught her reflection in the mirror. The sight of her waist-length hair, which had been her signature look for so long, suddenly felt like it belonged to someone else. She watched in the mirror as the stylist carefully snipped away two inches, leaving her hair just below her shoulders. It felt lighter already, as if she was shedding the weight of her old life. After the trim, the stylist ran a straightener through her hair, making it silky smooth. But it wasn’t done yet. Nia had one final request: loose pigtails. The stylist gathered her newly straightened hair into two relaxed pigtails that hung down gently on either side of her head. The look was playful and cute but still felt like a fresh take on her usual style. When the stylist was done, Nia smiled at her reflection. It was still her, but with a twist—a small but meaningful change that made her feel more in control of this new chapter of her life. “What do you think?” the stylist asked, holding up a mirror so Nia could see the back. “I love it,” Nia said with a satisfied smile. “It’s perfect.” After paying and thanking the stylist, Nia checked the time on her phone. It was already 10:40 a.m. She didn’t have much time left before she had to be at the bakery. Grabbing her things, she hurried out of the salon and made her way through the streets of Akola, the cool November breeze now playing with her freshly styled hair. As she walked, her heart started to race—not because she was in a hurry, but because of the unknown. What would her first day at the bakery really be like? Strawberry had been kind, but there was something strange about her. Nia couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to the bakery than met the eye. By the time she reached Strawberry Bakery, it was 10:58 a.m. The pastel-colored sign swayed gently in the breeze as Nia approached the door. She took a deep breath, straightened her pigtails, and stepped up to the entrance, her reflection in the glass door catching her eye for a split second. “Here we go,” she whispered to herself, her hand reaching for the door handle. 3

Chapter 2: The Bakery begins The familiar jingle of the bell above the door greeted Nia as she stepped inside Strawberry Bakery for the first time as an employee. The place looked as charming as it had the day before, with its pastel walls and warm glow from the sunlight streaming in through the front windows. The air was thick with the scent of freshly baked bread, sugar, and a hint of vanilla—comforting, but almost too sweet.“Nia! Right on time,” Strawberry’s voice called from behind the counter, where she was arranging a tray of strawberry shortcakes. She smiled brightly, her pink hair pulled back into a neat ponytail today, but there was still something off about her demeanor, something that made Nia feel like she was being watched, even though Strawberry’s eyes never lingered too long. “Morning!” Nia replied, trying to sound chipper despite the nervous flutter in her chest. She still hadn’t shaken the strange vibe she’d gotten from Strawberry yesterday, but maybe that was just first-day jitters. This was a new job, after all. Strawberry waved her over. “Let’s get you started with the basics. We open at noon today, so we’ve got a bit of time to go over everything.” Nia walked around the counter, catching glimpses of the back kitchen. The shelves were lined with jars of sprinkles, flour, sugar, and other baking essentials. The ovens were humming quietly, and a large refrigerator stood in the corner, covered in magnets shaped like various desserts. Everything looked normal—just a regular bakery with regular bakery things. Still, the warning from the day before echoed in her mind: “Don’t go in my office.” “So, what’s first?” Nia asked, shaking off her thoughts. Strawberry smiled. “I’ll show you the layout first, so you know where everything is. Then I’ll give you a quick rundown on how to handle the customers. It’s pretty straightforward—most people who come here are regulars. You’ll get to know them quickly.” She led Nia around the bakery, pointing out the obvious and the not-so-obvious. “Over there, we have the pastry cupboard. You’ll be grabbing most of the ready-made goods from here during the day.” She opened the cupboard to reveal rows of neatly stacked croissants, tarts, and muffins. “We bake fresh each morning, and I’ll teach you how to help with that in time.” Nia nodded, taking mental notes as Strawberry continued the tour. “And this,” Strawberry said, gesturing to a small door near the back of the bakery, “is my office. Remember what I said yesterday. This is the only place you don’t need to worry about.” Nia glanced at the door. It looked just like any other office door—plain, wooden, and unassuming. But Strawberry’s tone had taken on that same strange edge from the day before, and Nia felt the hairs on the back of her neck prickle. She forced a smile and nodded. “Got it. No office.” Strawberry’s smile returned to its usual cheery self. “Great! Now, let’s get you familiar with the till. I’ll show you how to work the register and handle orders.” For the next hour, Strawberry went over the basics—how to ring up sales, handle customer requests, and where to find the bakery’s most popular items. It was simple enough, and Nia found herself relaxing a little as she got into the rhythm of things. Every now and then, she caught Strawberry watching her, but it was always fleeting, like she was just checking in. As the clock neared noon, Nia was feeling more confident. The bakery seemed to run smoothly, and Strawberry’s instructions were clear. Maybe she had been overthinking things. This job could be exactly what she needed—a quiet place to work, with the scent of pastries all around and regular customers to get to know. Just then, the door chimed again, and a customer walked in—a tall man with a salt-and-pepper beard and a gentle smile. He waved at Strawberry as he approached the counter. “Mr. Thomas!” Strawberry said, her face lighting up as she placed a small box of pastries on the counter. “Your usual?” The man chuckled. “Of course. I can’t go a week without your strawberry tarts.” As Strawberry rang up his order, Mr. Thomas turned to Nia with a friendly smile. “You must be new.” “Yeah, first day,” Nia said, returning the smile. “Well, welcome! You’ll love it here. This place is like a little slice of heaven,” Mr. Thomas said, though his eyes flicked over to the office door for a split second before returning to her. “Enjoy the peace while you can.” Before Nia could ask what he meant, Strawberry handed him his box, and with a wave, Mr. Thomas headed out the door. “What did he mean by that?” Nia asked, curious but trying to sound casual. Strawberry just smiled, a tight-lipped smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Oh, you’ll see. Let’s get ready for the afternoon rush.” 4

Chapter 2: The Bakery begins The afternoon rush was exactly what Strawberry had predicted—a steady stream of customers, most of them regulars. As Nia manned the counter, she began to recognize familiar faces. There was Lily, a quiet teenage girl with glasses, who ordered a strawberry tart every afternoon without fail, and Mr. Harrison, an elderly man with a hunched back who seemed to linger just a little too long as he counted out the exact change for his sugar-dusted croissants. Strawberry flitted back and forth between the kitchen and the front, her movements precise and efficient. Nia had to admit, she was impressed. Despite the odd feeling that had lingered since her first encounter with Strawberry, the bakery ran smoothly, and the customers seemed happy enough. But there were strange moments, too. Little things Nia couldn’t quite explain. Like the old woman who had shuffled in just before closing, her eyes wide and glassy, mumbling something under her breath as she bought a loaf of bread. Nia had strained to hear what the woman was saying, but all she caught were the words “always watching... never forget.” When she’d handed the woman her change, the old lady’s hand had been icy cold, her grip unnervingly tight. And then there was the way Strawberry’s smile would disappear the moment she thought Nia wasn’t looking. It was fleeting, but Nia could sense it—a flash of something darker in Strawberry’s eyes before she plastered on that sweet, sugary grin again. By the time the bakery closed for the day, Nia was exhausted. She wiped down the counters and swept the floors while Strawberry handled the back of the shop. When the last crumb was swept away, Nia turned to see Strawberry standing by the office door, watching her. “Good first day?” Strawberry asked, her voice its usual cheerful tone, but there was a slight edge to it. Nia nodded, forcing a smile. “Yeah, it was good. Thanks for showing me the ropes.” Strawberry’s eyes lingered on Nia for a moment too long before she gave a short nod. “I’m glad to hear it. You’re doing great, Nia. I’ll see you tomorrow at 11 again. Same time.” Nia nodded again, her smile tight as she gathered her things. As she headed for the door, she glanced once more at the office. The small, nondescript door seemed to hum with its own presence. It was as if the bakery itself was warning her, urging her to stay away from whatever lay behind that door. “Goodnight,” Nia called, trying to shake the strange feeling as she pushed the door open and stepped outside into the cool night air. “Goodnight,” Strawberry replied, her voice light but hollow. The door closed behind Nia with a soft click, and she stood outside the bakery for a moment, staring up at the darkening sky. Akola City was alive with people heading home from work, streetlights flickering on, and the hum of cars and voices filling the air. But something felt off, like the warmth of the bakery had vanished the moment she stepped outside. As Nia walked back to her apartment, Coco greeted her with excited yips. She dropped her bag by the door and scooped up her little white Pomeranian, letting Coco nuzzle her face. “Hey, girl,” she murmured, sinking into the couch. “You wouldn’t believe how weird today was.” Coco tilted her head as if listening, and Nia smiled, feeling a small sense of comfort return. It was just a bakery job. Maybe she was overthinking things. After a quick dinner, Nia curled up on the couch, with Coco nestled at her feet, and tried to focus on a show playing softly on the TV. But her thoughts kept drifting back to the bakery. The odd customers, Strawberry’s strange behavior, and that forbidden office. What could be in there that was so important to keep hidden? Nia let out a sigh. She needed to stop obsessing. Tomorrow would be better, she told herself. She’d get more comfortable with the routine, and maybe the strangeness she felt today would fade. But deep down, a tiny voice whispered that something wasn’t right. 5

Chapter 2: The Bakery begins Nia woke up the next morning to the soft buzz of her phone vibrating on the nightstand. She groggily reached for it, squinting at the screen as her eyes adjusted to the early light filtering through the curtains. It was a text from Strawberry. "Hey Nia, so um... I don’t need you in today." Nia blinked, confused. She sat up in bed, brushing her hair out of her face as she reread the message. It was strange—she hadn’t expected to have a day off so soon, especially not on a Sunday. She quickly typed a reply. "Why?" A few moments passed before the three dots appeared, indicating that Strawberry was typing. Nia’s brow furrowed as she waited for the response. "Um just some uh thing." Nia frowned at her phone. Strawberry was acting weird again. She hesitated before typing back. "What type of thing?" This time, the response came a bit quicker. "Well, I guess since you're in the business... every Sunday we close to um uh bake..." Nia stared at the message, her confusion growing. That didn’t make any sense. Why would the bakery close just to bake? And why wouldn’t she be needed if they were baking all day? The thought gnawed at her, but before she could ask any more questions, another text from Strawberry popped up. "Enjoy your day off!" Nia sighed, dropping her phone onto the bed beside her. The texts left her with more questions than answers, and the strange feeling she’d had since her first day at the bakery returned, creeping up the back of her neck. There was something off about this whole situation, but she couldn’t quite put her finger on it. Whatever it was, there was no point in dwelling on it. She had the day off, and with no obligations, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore more of Akola City. The city was still new to her, and she was eager to see what it had to offer. After a quick breakfast and a warm shower, Nia threw on a light pink shirt, black skirt, and her favorite pair of Puma sneakers. She grabbed her purse and clipped Coco’s leash to her collar, deciding to take her fluffy companion along for the adventure. As she strolled through the streets, Nia began to notice something peculiar about the city. Despite its larger size compared to Kinderwood, Akola had a strangely tight-knit vibe. People greeted each other warmly as they passed by, stopping to chat as if they’d known each other for years. It reminded her of home, where everyone seemed to know everyone, and there was always a friendly face just around the corner. As Nia turned down a quieter street, Coco happily trotting beside her, she heard a voice call out. “Hey! You must be new around here!” Nia turned to see a woman about her age with dark brown hair tied in a messy bun, standing by a flower shop with a bouquet of daisies in hand. She had a warm, friendly smile that immediately put Nia at ease. “Yeah, I just moved here,” Nia replied, smiling back. “I’m Nia.” “Laliya,” the woman introduced herself, extending her hand. “It’s nice to meet you. I’ve been seeing you around the past few days, but I wasn’t sure if you were just visiting.” “Nope, I’m here for good,” Nia said with a small laugh. “I’m still getting used to the city, though. It’s a bit different from what I’m used to.” Laliya nodded, her eyes glinting with curiosity. “Where are you from?” “A small town called Kinderwood. It’s... a lot quieter than here,” Nia explained. “But I’m liking Akola so far.” “Well, you picked a great place to settle in. Akola has this way of feeling big but small at the same time, you know? You’ll get to know everyone soon enough,” Laliya said with a grin. She looked down at Coco and smiled wider. “And who’s this little cutie?” “This is Coco,” Nia said, scooping the fluffy dog up into her arms. “She’s still adjusting to the city, too.” “I know a place you and Coco would love,” Laliya said. “Have you been to Blue’s Cat Café yet?” Nia shook her head. “No, I haven’t. What’s that?” Laliya’s eyes lit up. “It’s this super cute café just a few blocks from here. They have the best coffee, and it’s pet-friendly. Plus, they’ve got cats roaming around, so it’s a fun spot to relax if you love animals.” Nia couldn’t help but smile. It sounded like the perfect place to spend her unexpected day off. “That sounds amazing. Want to go together?” Laliya beamed. “I was just about to head that way! Let’s go.” With Laliya leading the way, the two walked down the street, chatting about the city and their shared love of animals. Coco, trotting beside them, seemed just as happy as Nia was to have made a new friend. As they approached Blue’s Cat Café, the cozy atmosphere became apparent from the moment they stepped inside. The café was small and inviting, with comfortable chairs and couches scattered around. Cats of all shapes and sizes lounged on the furniture, basking in the warm sunlight streaming through the windows. The smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, and a soft melody played in the background. Nia felt an immediate sense of calm as she found a seat by the window, Coco curling up at her feet. Laliya returned to the table with two steaming cups of coffee. “You’ll love this place,” she said with a wink. “It’s one of my favorite spots in the city.” Nia took a sip of her coffee, feeling the warmth spread through her. It was nice to have a day off to explore, to make a new friend, and to enjoy the little things that Akola City had to offer. 6

Chapter 2: The Bakery begins After finishing their coffee, Nia and Laliya decided to stroll through the bustling streets of Akola City. The afternoon sun had warmed the air, making it a perfect day for exploring. As they stepped out of Blue’s Cat Café, Coco happily trotting beside them, Nia noticed something—almost everyone they passed seemed to know Laliya. It started with a friendly wave from a young man across the street. “Hey, Laliya!” he called, grinning as he jogged over to say hello. “Hey, Jess!” Laliya replied, smiling as they exchanged a few words before parting ways. As they continued walking, Nia couldn’t help but notice how many people waved or greeted Laliya with warm smiles and casual hellos. It was as if Laliya were the unofficial mayor of this part of town. “Do you know everyone?” Nia asked, half-joking, but genuinely curious. Laliya laughed. “Pretty much! I’ve lived here since I was four, so I guess I’ve had time to get to know just about everyone in Akola. It’s a big city, but it has that small-town feel, you know?” Nia nodded, though she couldn’t help feeling a little out of place. Back in Kinderwood, she’d known everyone, but here in Akola, she was still very much an outsider. As they turned the corner, a woman with bright blue hair waved enthusiastically at Laliya. “Laliya! It’s been forever!” she called, rushing over with a wide smile. “Kia!” Laliya exclaimed, pulling her into a hug. “How are you?” “I’m great! Busy, but good,” Kia replied, glancing at Nia with curiosity. “And who’s this?” “This is Nia,” Laliya introduced her with a grin. “She’s new to Akola. Just moved here a few days ago.” “Nice to meet you, Nia! Welcome to the city. Don’t worry, you’ll settle in,” Kia said with a welcoming smile. “Thanks,” Nia said, smiling back, though she still felt like an observer, watching how easily Laliya and Kia chatted. As they walked further, Nia noticed more people greeting Laliya. She was surprised by just how connected Laliya was—every few steps, someone new stopped to say hello. “You’ve been here a long time, huh?” Nia asked, once they had said goodbye to Kia and continued down the street. “Yeah, since I was four,” Laliya said with a fond smile. “I grew up here, went to school here, and just never wanted to leave. It’s home.” Nia envied how easily Laliya said those words—it’s home. For Nia, Akola still felt foreign, like she was trying to fit into a place where she didn’t quite belong. But Laliya’s warmth made her feel hopeful that maybe, in time, she’d find her place too. They walked for a while longer, stopping at a few shops along the way. Laliya seemed to know every store owner by name, and each greeted her with the same friendly smiles. It was strange how Akola, despite being bigger than Kinderwood, had this small-town charm where everyone seemed to know each other. “Do you ever get tired of knowing everyone?” Nia asked with a laugh as they left yet another shop where the owner had eagerly chatted with Laliya.Laliya shook her head. “Nah. It’s nice, actually. It’s like having a huge extended family. You’ll see—once you’ve been here a while, you’ll get to know everyone too.”Nia wasn’t so sure about that. She hadn’t been in Akola long, and so far, the only people she’d really spoken to were Strawberry and a few customers at the bakery. The idea of knowing everyone felt overwhelming, but Laliya made it seem effortless. As they made their way back toward the café, Nia found herself relaxing more. Maybe she just needed time. Time to get used to this new life, this new city, and the strange but friendly people who called it home. "Thanks for hanging out today,” Nia said, glancing at Laliya as they reached the café again. “I wasn’t sure what to do with my day off, but this was fun.” “Anytime!” Laliya replied with a smile. “It’s nice showing someone around. Let’s do it again soon.” As Nia waved goodbye and started the walk back to her apartment, Coco bouncing beside her, she couldn’t help but feel a little lighter. Maybe Akola wasn’t so bad after all. Maybe, in time, she’d find her place here, just like Laliya had. But as she rounded the corner toward her building, her thoughts drifted back to Strawberry Bakery. The strange texts from this morning, Strawberry’s odd behavior, and the way she’d been so eager to keep Nia out on Sundays. There was something unsettling about it, something that tugged at the back of Nia’s mind. She didn’t know what it was, but she knew one thing for sure—she was going to figure it out. 7

Chapter 3: A Chilling RevelationThe soft chime of Nia’s phone woke her early the next morning. She blinked at the screen, still groggy, and saw a new message from Laliya. “Hey! Good morning! 😊 I was thinking… before your shift, could you meet my friend Dala at Queen’s Park? She wants to talk to you about something.” Nia rubbed her eyes, trying to shake off the last remnants of sleep. She typed back quickly, curiosity flickering in her mind. “Sure. What does she want to talk about?” A moment later, Laliya’s reply came through, but it was oddly vague. “Just something about Strawberry Bakery. Nothing to worry about! See you later.” Nia felt a small pit of unease settle in her stomach. It was unusual for Laliya to be so mysterious, and the mention of the bakery only deepened her suspicions. What could Dala possibly want to tell her? After breakfast, she got dressed, pulling on a soft blue shirt and her favorite black skirt. She checked the time—she’d have just enough to meet Dala and still make it to the bakery for her shift. Grabbing Coco’s leash, she took her fluffy companion along, deciding some fresh air might calm her nerves. Queen’s Park was a short walk from her apartment, and as Nia approached, she felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension. The park was peaceful this early in the morning, with families walking their dogs and the sound of birds chirping overhead. She scanned the benches near the fountain, searching for anyone who might be waiting for her. “Nia?” The voice was soft, and Nia turned to see a woman with long dark hair, dressed in a casual gray sweater and jeans, standing a few feet away. She looked to be in her mid-thirties, with a warm but serious expression. “Dala?” Nia asked, giving a small smile. Dala nodded, smiling faintly as she approached. “Nice to meet you, Nia. Laliya’s told me a lot about you.” “Good things, I hope,” Nia replied, trying to lighten the mood. But Dala’s expression remained serious as she motioned for Nia to sit beside her on a nearby bench. “It’s… it’s good things, but she’s worried too,” Dala said, her tone lowering. “She mentioned you started working at Strawberry Bakery, right?” “Yes,” Nia replied, feeling a prickle of discomfort. “It’s a nice place, but… well, I have noticed some strange things.” Dala gave a knowing nod. “That doesn’t surprise me. You see, you’re not the first person Laliya knows who’s worked there.” Nia raised her eyebrows, surprised. “Really?” “Yes. Her name was Stella. She was one of my closest friends, and she worked at Strawberry Bakery for a few months,” Dala explained, her gaze distant. “She’d moved here, like you, and needed a job. Everything seemed fine at first. She loved baking, and it felt like the perfect fit. But then, after about three months… she just disappeared.” Nia’s heart skipped a beat. “She… disappeared?” Dala nodded, her expression somber. “It was like she vanished without a trace. One day, she just didn’t show up for work, and nobody saw her again. Laliya and I were both worried sick. We asked around, but no one seemed to have any answers. Even Strawberry didn’t seem to care. She just said that Stella left and never came back.” Nia felt a chill creep up her spine. “Didn’t anyone look into it? Call the police?” “Oh, we did,” Dala replied, her eyes flashing with frustration. “But it was like Stella had simply vanished. There was no evidence, no trace of where she might have gone. The police looked into it briefly, but with nothing to go on, they eventually closed the case.” Nia sat in stunned silence, trying to process what she’d just heard. Stella had vanished after working at the bakery for only a few months. It sounded eerily similar to the strange, unsettling vibes she’d been picking up on since her first day. “Laliya and I think there’s more to that place than meets the eye,” Dala continued, her tone softening. “I don’t know what it is, but the fact that you’re already sensing something strange worries us. If you feel anything… off, just be careful. Don’t let curiosity get the best of you.” Nia nodded slowly, her mind spinning. “Thank you for telling me. I… I knew something felt wrong, but I thought I was just overthinking things. Strawberry’s nice, but there’s something off about her, about the bakery…” Dala placed a reassuring hand on Nia’s shoulder. “Trust your instincts. I didn’t know Stella felt the same way until it was too late. Laliya and I both wish we’d done something sooner, but… just promise you’ll be careful.” “I will,” Nia replied, her voice barely a whisper. As they sat in silence, Nia felt the weight of Dala’s words settle over her. She had sensed something was wrong, but this story added a new layer of fear. Stella had been in her shoes once—a new girl in town, excited about her job at the bakery. And now, she was gone. After a few moments, Dala stood, giving Nia a solemn look. “I’ll let you get to your shift. I just thought you deserved to know. If you need anything—or if you find anything strange—reach out to me or Laliya.” Nia nodded, her throat tight. “Thank you, Dala. I appreciate it.” They said their goodbyes, and Nia watched as Dala walked away, disappearing into the morning crowd. Coco tugged at her leash, sensing her unease, and Nia reached down to pat her head, trying to calm herself. Stella’s story stayed with her as she made her way toward the bakery. Each step felt heavier, like she was walking into something she wasn’t sure she could escape. The comforting scents of pastries and sugar no longer seemed as inviting. Whatever secrets the bakery held, Nia was starting to realize they might be darker than she’d ever imagined. 8

Chapter 3: A Chilling RevelationAs Nia walked toward Strawberry Bakery, Dala’s words replayed in her mind like a haunting melody. The image of a missing girl, someone who had been in her shoes just months ago, filled her thoughts. Stella had walked these same streets, worked the same shifts, and probably passed by the same people. And then, just like that, she was gone. Coco trotted beside her, blissfully unaware of Nia’s worries, her small paws tapping along the sidewalk. Nia tried to calm herself, focusing on the cool November breeze and the sunlight filtering through the trees. But her heart still pounded, the weight of Dala’s story pressing down on her like an anchor.She turned onto a quieter street, one lined with small shops and scattered pedestrians. Her gaze wandered, almost unconsciously searching for answers in the faces of strangers, as if one of them might hold the key to Stella’s disappearance. And that’s when she saw it. A faded piece of paper taped to a lamppost, flapping slightly in the breeze. She paused, the familiar face on the poster catching her attention. It was a girl with bright blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, her expression frozen in a slight smile. At the top, in bold letters, were the words “MISSING – STELLA JONES” followed by a date nearly a year ago. Nia felt a chill creep down her spine as she stared at Stella’s picture, the face Dala had described so vividly. Stella’s eyes seemed to follow her, an eerie reminder of the path Nia was now walking. Her heart thumped harder, and she took a step back, swallowing down the unease building in her chest. Was this the girl who had disappeared from Strawberry Bakery? The girl who had worked just a few shifts longer than Nia had so far? As she forced herself to look away, questions bubbled up in her mind. Has Strawberry known about this? Had she really dismissed Stella’s absence as nothing, or was there something more sinister going on? A chill ran through her as she realized just how little she knew about her boss. Coco tugged at her leash, urging her forward, and Nia took a shaky breath. She continued walking, but the image of Stella stayed with her, burned into her mind. She felt as if she were being watched, as if Stella’s spirit were calling out to her from that poster, warning her to tread carefully.When she finally reached the bakery, Nia hesitated at the door, her hand hovering over the handle. Through the window, she saw Strawberry bustling about inside, her pink hair pulled back in a neat ponytail as she arranged trays of pastries in the display case. To any passerby, she looked like the picture of a cheerful baker, dedicated to her craft and her little shop. But Nia now saw something darker, a shadow lurking behind that cheerful smile and pastel-colored walls. She forced herself to push open the door, the familiar chime of the bell ringing out as she stepped inside. Strawberry looked up, her eyes lighting up as she spotted Nia. “Good morning, Nia!” she called, her voice bright and chipper as always. “You’re just in time. We have a lot of baking to do today.” “Morning,” Nia replied, trying to keep her tone steady. She moved behind the counter, glancing around the bakery. It was spotless, as usual, every surface gleaming and every pastry perfectly arranged. It was strange how perfect it all seemed, almost like it was trying too hard to hide something beneath the surface.Strawberry handed her an apron, her smile unwavering. “Today’s going to be a busy one, but I think you’re getting the hang of things.” Nia forced a smile and nodded, but her thoughts were far from the pastries and the routine Strawberry laid out. Stella’s face, the missing poster, and Dala’s warning swirled in her mind, filling her with a quiet dread. As Strawberry continued explaining the day’s tasks, Nia’s gaze drifted over to the office door. The small, plain door looked harmless enough, but now it seemed to hold a dark secret, one that weighed on her mind every time she stepped inside the bakery. Stella had probably been told the same thing—“Don’t go in the office.” The air felt thick with tension as the morning wore on. Nia followed Strawberry’s instructions, baking, arranging, and serving customers, but her thoughts kept wandering. Every time a customer entered, her heart leapt, half-expecting one of them to ask about Stella or say something to crack the mystery open. Around midday, Mr. Thomas entered, his usual smile in place as he greeted both Strawberry and Nia. He ordered his usual strawberry tart, his gaze lingering a bit too long on the office door before he handed over his payment. “Nice to see the bakery in such good hands,” he said, his tone casual but his eyes sharp as he looked at Nia. Nia tried to brush it off, but the look in his eyes felt like a warning. “Thank you, Mr. Thomas. I’m really enjoying it here.” His gaze shifted to Strawberry, his expression unreadable. “Take care of her,” he said softly, giving a small nod before he headed out the door. Strawberry watched him leave, her cheerful expression never faltering, but Nia could feel a tension simmering between them. As soon as he was gone, Strawberry let out a light laugh, waving a dismissive hand. “Mr. Thomas has always been a bit dramatic,” she said, turning back to the display case. “He likes to think he knows more than he does.” Nia forced a smile, but the words didn’t reassure her. Mr. Thomas’s warning, Dala’s story, and Stella’s haunting eyes on that missing poster were too vivid to ignore. As the afternoon passed, the weight of the secrets around her grew heavier. She could sense them in every corner of the bakery, hidden behind Strawberry’s bright smile, lurking in the silent spaces between customers. Each moment felt like it was pulling her closer to a truth she wasn’t sure she wanted to know. By the time the sun began to set, Nia felt like she’d been holding her breath all day. The smell of fresh pastries, once comforting, now seemed almost sickly sweet, clinging to her like a memory she couldn’t shake. Whatever the truth was, she knew one thing: Stella’s story hadn’t ended with that missing poster. 9

Chapter 3: A Chilling Revelation

Chapter 3: A Chilling Revelation