‘I’ll stay if you like. It might end up being busy,’ Bev offered. ‘I haven’t any other plans for today, and I’m sure there’s plenty you still need to be doing.’

‘Well, Holly is coming in to help soon, and she’s bringing in a group of friends to try out the café, but if you don’t mind staying, that’d be great. I’m really not sure how busy it might get.’ Emma hadn’t a clue if there might be an opening day rush. She would just have to wait and see, but an extra pair of hands would be wonderful.

Ten to two, the kettle was filled and ready in the kitchen with some of her mix-and-match cups, as well as teapots, cafetières and milk jugs. Emma had put out two trays – one, a pretty silver-plated one of her mother’s, the other with vintage-style roses on, which she’d discovered at the car boot sale. They set sugar bowls out on the tables, with little tongs dangling from the side. The Cosy Chocolate Shop Café was ready.

Holly bowled in. ‘Hi, I’m here.’ She stopped and looked around her. ‘Oh. My. Gosh. This is just lush in here, Emma. I sooo love it. Aw, the cushions, the bunting, all the finishing touches …’ Her assistant stood open-mouthed, taking it all in.

‘Yep, we’re all ready to go. We just need some customers.’ Emma felt a sense of trepidation.

‘Exciting.’

Bev came out from the kitchen just then. ‘Hi, Holly. I’m here to help too – all ready for the big rush.’

‘Cool.’

Just then, a text pinged in – Max.

Very best of luck. Go The Chocolate Shop Café! X

Emma smiled. Then her mobile rang:

‘Hey, I thought it would be nice to speak with you in person, so just ringing to wish you the best of luck, Em. Did you manage to get it all finished in time?’ Max.

‘Yep, just about. Oh Max, it’s all come together so well and really looks great. I am a bit nervous, though. I just hope people turn up.’

‘They will. You’ll smash it, I’m sure.’

‘Thanks.’

‘Have a good afternoon. I’m looking forward to seeing you later – I have a bit of a plan.’

‘Hmm, what kind of a plan?’

‘Now, you’ll just have to wait and see, won’t you?’ he teased.

‘Spoilsport. Ah, the suspense is killing me,’ she laughed.

‘You’ll enjoy it, I’m sure.’

What could a girl fit in to four or five hours on a Monday evening with a rather gorgeous man? One thing rather vividly came to mind – but it was still very early on in their relationship for anything like that.

‘It’d better be good.’ She pulled herself back from her reverie. Thank heavens he couldn’t see her blushing.