Her name is Margaret. She has been with me through three apartments, two breakups, and a pandemic. I baked her a small loaf shaped like a candle. My partner thinks I've lost it. Margaret and I disagree.

The score was the issue. Always the score.

Tested across two summers and a 100-mile race. Carbs don't have to be plastic.

I cannot get a 85% hydration loaf to hold its shape. I have steam. I have parchment. I have despair.