Page 37 of The Cosy Christmas Chocolate Shop

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.’

‘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.’

So maybe he was here just for some chocolates. She sorted the confectionery into gift bags, trying to still the trembling in her fingertips. She hoped no other customers would come in just now; she wanted time to have a chat, though she really didn’t know what she was going to say. He’d cropped up so many times in her mind these past months. He couldn’t just pick up the sweets and walk back out that door, could he?

Oh damn. He was paying, putting his wallet away, picking up the gift bag. ‘Lovely shop you have here.’

‘Thanks … Umm …’ She had to stall him.

‘Ah …’ he started. They looked at each other.

She realised she still didn’t know his name. ‘I’m Emma by the way.’ She held out her hand.

‘Hello, Emma. Max.’