Page 93 of The Cosy Seaside Chocolate Shop

‘Thank you, that’ll be lovely. Just what I need,’ Emma said. She’d taken Alfie out straight after work and then fed him, coming on here without stopping for a snack or drink herself.

‘You’ve been so good to me, Emma.’ The old lady’s tone became serious. ‘Visiting me often when I know you’re so busy yourself. You’re rushed off your feet as it is. Now then, tell me all about the Food Festival this weekend …’

Their tea turned up with a selection of old-fashioned biscuits: bourbons, jam sandwich and custard creams.

‘Thank you, Felicity, pet,’ Mrs C said warmly. ‘They’re all very good in here,’ she said to Emma as an aside.

‘Thanks,’ said Emma. She took a sip of the strong but good tea and started to tell her elderly friend about all the different stalls, how well the chocolate ice cream had gone down, and her hectic day at the shop.

‘I’ll be there for it next year,’ Mrs C nodded. ‘Do you think there’ll be another?’

‘Yes, I think so. There was a lot of positive feedback. It took quite a bit of setting up, but the local businesses really benefited. I’d be happy to get involved again for sure.’

‘Well, that’s good. Bet there was lots of nice food there. We’ve already had our supper here. Five o’clock sharp. Fish pie tonight, not bad at all. But I still can’t wait to get back to my own home. There’s nothing like home, is there?’

‘No, you’re right.’ And she thought about her Chocolate Shop and her flat, and the fact it might all be someone else’s soon. Just as life was looking up once more, there was a kick to bring it all down, with the news that The Brewery Boys had put in their offer. Oh yes, that had happened just this morning. She’d had an off-the-record call from the girl in the estate agents, who was a friend of Laura’s, to warn her. She was expecting to hear from Mr Neil to confirm he’d accepted – the final hammer blow. It seemed to be just a matter of time. But she didn’t want to worry Mrs C with any of that just now.

‘Emma, dear,’ Mrs C interrupted her thoughts, ‘I know you’ve already been so good to me, but would you mind popping across to see me tomorrow when I’m back at home? Maybe after work, just when you’ve got a minute, pet.’

‘Sure.’ She expected the old lady was a little anxious thinking about being back on her own again – of course she’d look in. ‘That’s no problem. I can check you’ve settled back in all right, or if there’s anything you need.’

‘Thank you. You’re a kind girl.’

‘I’ll remember not to come around the back way, mind.’ They both chuckled. ‘Well, I’d better get back,’ Emma said. ‘Sorry I can’t stay longer tonight, but I have lots of truffles and some chocolate muffins to make. This weekend just about wiped out my supplies.’

‘Yes, of course. I’m fine. I’ve got Bessie and Mavis here for company, as well as the nursing staff, and Coronation Street will soon be on the telly. You get yourself away.’

‘I’ll see you tomorrow. It’ll be around six o’clock time.’

‘That’s grand, pet. Whenever you can make it. I’ll not be going anywhere. Thank you, I appreciate that.’

‘Take care.’

‘Bye, pet.’

Emma turned to wave as she left the residents’ lounge. Mrs C and several of the other old ladies and gents waved back.

One of the nurses caught up with Emma in the corridor on her way out to thank her for the gorgeous chocolates. ‘Mind, she’s a character that one,’ the woman added.

‘Yes, I know.’ Emma smiled.

‘She’s told us all about your Chocolate Shop. Sounds amazing. I’ll have to pop along one day.’

‘Aw, that’s nice. And yes, do.’

‘We’ll miss her. Mind you, there is a downside to having her here: half the residents are now saying “bugger”.’

The two of them laughed.

‘Thanks for looking after her so well.’

‘Hey, that’s what we’re here for.’ The nurse gave a smile.

‘Goodnight.’

‘Night.’

47