The next day, Sunday, the shop door clanged and in marched a sprightly sixty-year-old, her hair set in neat grey curls, with a concerned-looking Adam in tow.

‘It’s so lovely to meet you at last.’ The lady had the bluest eyes with a hint of sparkly mischief about them. She was thrusting her hand across the counter towards Emma.

‘This is my gran. I couldn’t keep her away,’ explained Adam.

‘Well, lovely to meet you.’ Emma shook her hand warmly.

‘It’s Shirley, by the way.’

‘Emma.’

‘Yes, Holly’s said so much about you, Emma, and about the shop here. I just had to come and see it for myself. Our Adam invited me across to the hotel for tea and cake this morning. He’s doing so well there and I’m so proud of him – assistant manager, you know.’

Adam was grimacing at this point.

‘Well, when my grandson said he had to call down for the turndown chocolates, I said why didn’t I come along too? I’m so glad I did! Oh, and your chocolates are a real delight. Those coffee and orange creams, they’re my favourites. They really do melt in your mouth.’

‘Thank you. That’s lovely to hear.’

Shirley finally took a breath and took in the shop around her. ‘Well, isn’t it delightful in here? I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a pretty shop … the cottage building, the chocolate displays, everything about it. In fact, I can’t believe I’ve never called in before. Though I’m not often this way to be fair. I live at Seahouses,’ she explained, ‘keep myself busy over that way, helping with the coffee mornings for the old people. The Golden Oldies’ Club, we call it. Actually—’

Adam stepped in, wondering what his gran might be building up to next. ‘That’s great, Gran, but I’m sure Emma’s busy. It was just a quick hello, and I need to collect the chocolates for the hotel and get back soon. I am technically working.’

‘Ah, yes, of course. He’s such a good boy.’

‘Gra-an.’ He cringed. ‘You make me sound like I’m about six.’

‘Sorry, Adam. Can’t help myself.’

Emma had to smile. Despite the banter, they were obviously fond of each other.

‘But, just quickly, Emma.’ Shirley was off again. ‘I was going to mention that we have a Christmas fete coming up for the old people. It’s usually a smashing event and we have all sorts of stalls. A chocolate stall might go down really well for a change. It’d be profitable, for sure. It’s always well attended.’