Why was she taking sides anyhow, she hadn’t even met the guy? ‘I thought you’d be on my side,’ said a disgruntled Emma.

‘I am, always, and don’t you forget it.’

They both knew enough had been said on that particular situation.

‘Anyway, whatever you need us to do to help with the changes here, just shout. We’re here to help.’

‘Thank you.’

29

Friday, it was all hands on deck.

All the chocolate supplies needed to be moved out of the shop after the close of business to be stored safely over the weekend whilst the work was being done.

Emma was carrying a cardboard box of truffles out to Bev’s car – her friend was helping with storage over the weekend – when her mobile buzzed in her pocket.

Once the box was safely placed in the boot, she checked the caller ID. Hmm – Ron the joiner’s number. Hopefully he was just confirming the start time tomorrow. He had seemed a nice enough guy. Reliable.

On the call back, it was his wife, Maureen, who answered.

‘Good evening. Seahouses 315227.’

‘Hello, it’s Emma, from the chocolate shop.’

‘Ah, Emma, hello … I’m sorry to have to tell you this, pet, but Ron’s gone down with a horrid tummy bug this afternoon. I thought he might get through it, that’s why we left off phoning earlier, but he’s now got a temperature. He’s had to go to bed and is not well at all. Vomiting and all sorts. There’s no way around it, I’m so sorry, but he’s going to have to postpone.’

‘Ah, I see.’ Oh no! Who on earth could she call in at this late hour for joinery work? She’d had enough trouble finding Ron in the first place. Dammit. But it wasn’t poor old Ron’s fault and Maureen was anxiously still on the line. ‘Oh dear … not the best news I’ve had today, but thanks for letting me know. It’s just one of those things, I suppose.’

‘Ron’s terribly sorry to let you down, dear. As soon as he’s better, I’ll get him to call you and rearrange.’