‘Certainly food for thought, Shirley. If you could give Holly some more details, I’ll definitely consider it.’ Any schemes for raising the shop’s profits were always welcome. ‘But I’d best go and get these chocolates for the hotel now. They’re all ready out the back, Adam. I won’t be a minute.’

Adam smiled, somewhat relieved. ‘Thank you.’

His gran was a one-woman whirlwind, but Emma had warmed to her straight away. She was obviously a doer, a busy bee. Emma identified with that working spirit and talking Christmas events with Shirley started her thinking about her Christmas lines. She’d soon need to source the more unusual ingredients and buy in all the festive wrappings. During a quiet spell that afternoon, she found herself daydreaming about the pretty gift bags and boxes you could order with snowflakes, holly, and all sorts of designs on, as well as ribbons and bows in golds, silvers, reds and green. Emma liked to have a different theme for each Christmas season, so would be looking for inspiration on which colours and styling she’d feature in the window display and throughout the shop. You could really go to town creatively at Christmas. She loved it when the shop looked beautiful and magical – just perfect for that special time of year.

The door went with its usual chiming clang. She looked up, and froze.

Oh. My. Word!

She’d known she’d recognise him if she ever had the chance to set eyes on him again. Emma felt herself go all hot and flustered. He was still as gorgeous. She hadn’t dreamt that up, or over-exaggerated in her mind.

‘Hel-lo.’ Her voice came out a pitch higher than usual.

‘Hi.’ His voice was as warm and smooth as tempered chocolate.

‘So, you were real!’ The words spilled out of her mouth and she cringed as she said them.

He gave her a broad smile in response. ‘Yup.’

‘And yesterday, Holly said that …’ Emma was finding it hard to form full sentences.

‘Yes, I called in. Unfortunately, when you were out. I just hoped the shop hadn’t changed hands since I met you.’

Thank heavens she hadn’t had to give up the lease.

‘Yes, it’s still me here.’ She gave a shy smile. ‘Can I help with anything? Are you wanting some chocolates?’ He might just be here to buy something, after all.

‘Well then, what would you recommend?’

‘Umm, the salted caramels are really delicious, and the choc-dipped fudge is always popular.’

‘I’ll try some of each then. Thanks.’