Page 26 of Christmas at Rachel’s Pudding Pantry

Next, she spotted Jim parked up at the taxi rank. He’d be sure to see loads of different people on his local travels.

‘Hi, Jim. How are you?’

‘Hey there, Rachel. I’m good thanks.’

‘And the family?’

‘Grand. The wee one’s already a year now, can you believe it?’

‘Aw, I bet he’s a little cutie.’

‘Aye, he is indeed. Mind, he’s off toddling now, so we’re in trouble. Nothing in the house is safe anymore. Spent a whole afternoon putting up stairgates and cupboard catches yesterday.’

‘Well, better safe than sorry.’

‘Aye, indeed.’

‘And you’re all fine, over at the farm?’

‘Yes, thanks Jim. Actually, can I ask a favour?’

‘Go ahead, lass.’

‘You wouldn’t mind leaving a few of these flyers handy on your dash for your customers?’ Rachel gave a hopeful smile.

‘And what are they about?’

‘We’re starting a Pudding Club at the farm.’

‘Of course, I will, and I’ll be sure to spread the word too. My passengers are usually more than happy to chat, so I have sitting targets.’ He gave a wink.

‘Thanks Jim, I appreciate it. You’re a star.’

‘It’s no bother at all, lass.’

Into the florist’s next, where Wendy was busy making up a gorgeous-looking bouquet, with fragrant blooms in pinks and mauves and whites.

‘Oh, that’s so pretty,’ Rachel commented.

‘Hello, Rachel. Yes, it’s an order for a birthday gift. Can I help?’

‘Well, I hope so. I’m sorry it’s not an order or anything. I just wondered if you’d mind popping a few flyers out on the counter for me, or perhaps one in the window. Mum and I, we’re launching a Pudding Club.’

‘Puddings?’ she glanced over the flyer. ‘Now you’re talking. Of course, I’ll put a few out for you.’

‘Thank you.’

‘And how’s it going there at the farm for you?’ The local community were well aware of the family’s background – especially the unexpected grief that had hit them with Dad’s death two years ago – and the steps they were trying to take to move on. It meant a lot to Rachel that they always checked in on how she was – the community spirit was well and truly flowing in her beloved little village.

‘Well, the new Pudding Pantry started really well,’ Rachel was trying her best to sound upbeat, ‘but we just need a bit more momentum to get us through the autumn and winter months.’

‘Yes, it’s gone a bit quieter here too. But I’ll soon be getting busy with my Christmas wreaths and such like.’

It really did sound as if they weren’t the only ones experiencing a lull in trade then and that was reassuring in itself.

‘Thanks, Wendy.’ Rachel left a handful of flyers on the counter, beside the till.

‘It’s no problem at all.’