The shop’s telephone went. It was carpenter Ron, who’d thankfully made a full recovery and offered to come in that evening after closing to move the refrigerated counter back as originally planned to make some more room in the café area. Excellent news!

They tidied up and were finished by five, Bev saying she’d pop across a bit earlier to help prepare for the launch on Friday.

Emma had just made herself a very welcome cup of tea. She’d been on her feet nearly all day and had just let Alfie out into the yard, so she needed a few minutes to sit on the sofa before it was all go again. Her phone went.

‘Hey, been a busy day, Em?’ Max.

‘Yeah, all go.’ She stifled a yawn. ‘Sorry, I’m just shattered.’

‘Yeah, I bet, you haven’t stopped in days.’

‘Not really, no.’

‘Well, keep smiling, and have a good couple of days.’

It was lovely hearing Max’s voice. It seemed to melt away the tensions of the day.

‘Looking forward to seeing you on Friday for the launch,’ he continued ‘And if there’s anything I can do, or bring along to help, just shout.’

‘Will do. I might actually need a bit of help serving the Prosecco, so you could be my waiter.’

‘I can make a very suave waiter, no worries. Anyway, I’m famished, been a hectic day here too. I’d better get away and get myself a takeout. Sweet and sour is calling my name.’

She smiled. ‘Sounds like we’re both under pressure.’

‘Yeah, a bit. There’s always something happening in the building trade, to be fair. Joys of running your own business too.’

‘Yep. Well, I’m going for some cheese and crackers now, and I’d better take Alfie out for a walk before Ron gets here. He’s coming to move the counter back. And then I’m going to have a long soak in the bath. I’ve still got two chairs left to paint tomorrow.’

‘Hmm, that’s sounds good.’

‘What? Painting? It isn’t that exciting.’

‘No, the thought of you … in a hot bath.’

She felt the heat rise up her neck, as an image of him and her in a hot bath flashed up unbidden.

‘Yeah, well …’ she virtually squeaked.

‘It’ll all be worth it in the end,’ he added in a normal tone. ‘See you, Friday.’

‘Okay.’

‘Have a good week. Miss you.’ His final words were warm and sweet and sounded like they were meant.

‘You too,’ she answered. ‘Max … on Friday … would you like to stay?’

There was a silent pause down the line, while he registered her words.

‘Right … great.’

There, it was said now, no chance of backing out or coming up with a million reasons why not. They both knew where this was heading.