Emma was tired, but she did love this time of the year. Yes, it was busy, had been for weeks, but it was also special. She had her Christmas lights on, carols and festive pop music playing, and was sporting her old faithful reindeer jumper, which made its outing every year, with red bauble earrings. Bev was about to turn up shortly in her elf costume, apparently (they’d decided a Christmas outfit was a must) and Holly was here as Father Christmas in a red-felt suit, with a white beard and all – though she was having problems as the beard kept dunking in the hot chocolates! Oh yes, less than twenty-four hours to the big day itself, and they were in full Christmas mode.

In one way, Emma couldn’t wait for the door to close, for the final customers to be gone and allow her just to kick off her shoes, chill out, and make the most of three days’ holiday. She had decided to take the day after Boxing Day off too – everyone would have had so many chocolates over Christmas no one would be wanting more that soon. And it was time she took a little bit of time out for herself.

Mind you, she would be driving down to Morpeth straight after work today, to collect Max, so not quite kicking off her shoes. But then, she was really looking forward to having him here with her and the family too.

They served a group of six sitting around one of the window-seat tables, and then Holly’s mobile went off. Emma nodded to let her know it was okay to take the call, and her assistant went out to the kitchen to speak more privately.

Holly came back looking a little upset.

‘Everything all right?’ Emma asked.

‘Not really. Adam’s gran is quite poorly with the flu, bless her. We were going there tomorrow for dinner. She wanted to cook for us, as we really wanted our first Christmas together and my mum and dad are away down south visiting my brother. Adam’s mum died when he was young, that’s why he’s extra close to his gran, and his dad’s got to work. He’s a chef and someone has to cook all those Christmas dinners, so we don’t really have anywhere to go.’

Two more wouldn’t hurt, Emma mused; she had a turkey that was big enough to feed a family of twelve, and she could soon prep some extra vegetables. ‘Why don’t you both come here? It’s fine. I’ve got James and the family over, and Max now too. He’s on the mend.’

‘Aw, I’m so glad about Max! That’s such good news, Em.’