Page 39 of The Cosy Seaside Chocolate Shop

‘Hah – tell me about it!’ Emma smiled wryly, thinking of her and Max working all hours and Bev and Pete’s current issues.

‘And then, he seems a bit quiet when I talk about uni and my midwifery course. I’ve tried to get him to open up about how he feels and he just says it’s fine, that he knows if I get the grades this summer I’ll be off up to Newcastle in September. Yeah, I’m a bit nervous, and I know I’ll miss him like crazy, but it’s what I really want to do, Em. It’s my dream. Just love that One Born Every Minute programme.’

‘Oh, I’m sure he’ll want you to do well and go, Hols. Maybe he’s just feeling a bit anxious about how it will be for you both? It’s probably just the thought of you being apart soon.’

‘I hope it’s just that.’ Holly looked worried.

‘You need to really talk to him about it, Holly. Be honest. It’s all about communication in a relationship. Yes, sharing your hopes and dreams, but also your fears.’

‘Yeah, I know. Thanks, Em.’

‘Right, well the time’s ticking on. We’d better get the shop up and running and the sign on the front door switched to Open. It might well be another busy day.’

‘Yeah. Can I make a notice for you later, Em, about your courtyard café opening on Monday? We’ll need to let people know.’

‘Of course, that’s a good idea. And add “Walking boots and four-legged friends will be welcome”, something like that.’

‘Okay. Will do.’

And so, another day in The Chocolate Shop by the Sea was about to begin.

It had been busy all day; there were plenty of new faces, mostly tourists, and there was a lot of positive buzz and chat about the new courtyard café too. Stan and Hilda had wanted to hear all about it from Holly, and followed Emma out the back for a sneak preview, saying it looked ‘Very nice indeed.’

The hours flew by and before she knew it, it was almost time to close up.

‘Everyone’s really excited about the courtyard for next week,’ Holly said as she was wiping over the tables.

‘That’s great. Me too. I think it’ll be a lovely new addition to The Chocolate Shop – perfect for sunny days. Let’s just hope it’s a good summer, weather-wise.’

‘Ooh, yes. Well, I’m going to get all my friends around to try it out and spread the word this week. Not that they’ll need much encouraging. What’s happening with the prosecco parties? Did you get your licensing through yet?’

‘Just an exam still to do. It’s been so busy I haven’t had a chance to complete it. But yes, we’ll have those party nights to offer as well, which should be good for business all year through.’

‘I admire you, Em. All your drive and energy. You never give up. Makes me want to go for my midwifery dream even more.’

‘Good for you. And thanks, Hols.’

‘So, anything else you need me to do before I leave for the evening, boss? I’ve only got a bit more tidying to get through.’

‘Nope, I’m just about sorted. Going to head to the kitchen now to make some Eton Mess truffles for tomorrow, they seem really popular at the moment. Either that or Bev’s been eating them all. They’re her favourites.’

‘Hah – yes.’

They both smiled.

‘Let’s just finish off here then.’

Closing time swung around and Emma was dead on her feet.

‘Well, have a fab evening with Max,’ Holly said as she wiped the last of the tables over.

‘Thanks. And what’s on for you? Are you seeing Adam again?’

‘Yeah, we’re off to the cinema down in Newcastle, and a bite of supper out, I think.’

‘Very nice.’ Blimey, she hadn’t been out to the cinema in ages. When Max turned up of a weekend they were usually both too shattered to go out anywhere much. ‘Oh, and don’t forget to speak with Adam about how you’re feeling. When you get the right moment, of course.’

‘Yeah, I will do. Thanks for the advice. Cheers, Em. See you soon. I’ll call in after Sixth Form one day next week with my pals. Milkshakes and ice creams are calling!’