‘I’ve really enjoyed helping out today,’ Bev said, as she put on her coat. ‘If you ever need any more help, say when Holly’s at school.’ She didn’t want to tread on the young girl’s toes. ‘I’d love to come in and do a few hours here and there for you. I only work two days at the surgery and Pete’s often busy out working or golfing. I really wouldn’t mind.’

Hmm – now there was a thought. Emma had realised she might need more staff at some point with the café, but hadn’t wanted to commit to taking anyone on until she knew how the takings were going and when the busiest times might be. Holly was still able to help at weekends and the holidays as usual, but having some extra help through the week might prove invaluable, giving Emma some precious time to create her bakes and chocolates.

‘I’ll have to just see how things go.’ Em was cautious about finances at this point, and how she’d cover any extra wages, ‘But I’m sure at times I’ll need some extra help so that would be fabulous. We’ll have a chat about it soon. You do seem a natural.’

Bev gave a wink. ‘Always feel at home in a chocolate shop. And it’s so much better than people snivelling and coughing over you at the doctors’ reception desk, though I’d not leave them in the lurch, of course.’

‘Bye, Emma.’ Holly moved in to give her boss another hug. ‘I’m so happy to see the café up and running. It’s just so pretty, too. My friends really loved it. They’ll be telling everyone they know about it, for sure.’

‘That’s great. And thanks to you, and Adam, and his gran. I couldn’t have done all this without everyone’s help.’

‘You are so welcome.’

‘See you and Adam on Friday night for the launch, yeah?’

‘Oh yes, you try stopping me. But I’m sure I’ll be in before then. Those hot chocolates looked delish – I need to come and try one.’

‘See you soon, then.’

Holly and Bev were at the door ready to go.

‘Bye, ladies. Love you both. Thank you.’ Emma felt on a high.

Emma found herself alone in her shop. She didn’t lock the door but turned the sign to closed and took in everything around her. She could hardly believe what they’d managed to achieve in one weekend, with a lot of help from her family and friends, and thanks especially to Max.

Max, she sighed. Who’d have thought how things would have changed there. She’d never thought she’d be seeing him again after last week, and now he was about to turn up. She wouldn’t let herself get carried away with it all though, one small step at a time.