‘Oh, I’m sure it will do. And when it does they won’t be able to pass this stall by with all its delightful treats.’ Dad had always been one of her biggest cheerleaders.

‘It really does look wonderful,’ her mum commented as she took in the festive display.

It was a lovely surprise, them turning up like this, as they hadn’t mentioned their intentions and had travelled half an hour to be here.

‘Can we help out at all?’ her mum asked.

‘Well, if you wouldn’t mind looking after the stall, while I take a quick loo break?’ The practicalities of being a solo stallholder were beginning to take effect.

‘Of course.’

In Emma’s absence, her dad proudly commented to any passers-by that his daughter hand-made all the chocolates herself and managed to coax a gentleman into purchasing a box of champagne truffles for his wife’s birthday. He seemed very pleased with himself when Em got back. Mum said he was a natural.

They bought a few gifts themselves, to take back to friends in Rothbury, and a reindeer each for the twins, as they were going to call in to visit James on their way back. They headed off with hugs and kisses and good luck wishes. Emma felt so blessed to have such a supportive family.

Coffee Cabin lady was right; once the early dusk began to fall, the market square began to buzz into life and a lovely festive atmosphere filled the area as a touch of frost formed on the cobbles and the white Christmas lights that were strung between stalls began to glow. There was a huge real pine Christmas tree with coloured lights, tinsel, and shiny baubles taking centre stage, just along from her row of stalls, and the smell of mulled wine and spices filled the air, along with the sound of children’s eager chatter, and a medley of well-known Christmas carols came from a speaker.

Emma had a busy spell, with several people at the stall at once and lots of purchases made. Chocolate, fudge, and brownies were flying out like hot cakes. On a brief lull, the coffee lady opposite her gave her a big thumbs-up sign and a grin. She smiled back, with her own chilly thumb raised up too.