Page 68 of Tricks & Treats at The Cosy Cornish Bakery

‘I like your optimism, however misplaced.’

‘Don’t do this,’ Chloe pleaded. ‘You’re the sunny one, the one who always trusts to the universe for protection. I’m the old cynic. Fuck!’ She slammed her fist down on the old wooden table making Ginger jump. ‘If you’re not furious with Joshua bloody Ralph, then I am. How dare he do this to you. When I got back to Wheal Kitty Cove, I couldn’t believe how sorted you were. How grounded. You had everything going for you. I’ve always envied how happy you are in your own skin.’

‘You envied me?’ Ginger stared at her in surprise.

‘Always.’ Chloe took her friends’ hands. ‘You can find the beauty and serenity in a sunrise. You don’t chase a lifestyle that tells you if you don’t have the right handbag or go to the right Insta resort you haven’t made it. You’d found happiness, contentment. I’m bloody furious to see that person go.’

Ginger managed a wobbly smile. ‘You’d be amazed how having no money forces you into finding contentment in the things that come free, like a sunrise.’

‘That’s more like the old Ginger.’

‘Less of the old, thanks. I’m not thirty-eight yet.’

‘And we’ll make sure we have a blast on your birthday.’

‘Will you be around?’

‘Looks that way. At least until the spring. Want to make sure Mum’s okay.’

‘Never thought I’d hear you express concern over Dulcie.’ This time Ginger grinned properly.

‘Well, believe it, girlfriend. And not only that but Hannah and I are sort of friends.’

‘No!’ Ginger’s mouth dropped open. ‘What happened? The last time I saw her she was moaning about you. In fact, I had a right go at her.’

‘Did you? Thank you for sticking up for me. Turns out Mum has been playing us off one another.’

‘Why?’

‘I have absolutely no idea.’

‘And you’re still going to stay around until next year and look after her?’

Chloe grimaced. ‘I am. Although I might regret it. Ask me about my blood pressure next April.’

Ginger giggled.

‘And, another thing,’ Chloe said forcefully. ‘About the roof. I’ve decided. Tell me how much it’s going to cost and I’ll loan it to you.’ When Ginger began to protest she raised her hands. ‘No, it’s not up for discussion. It’ll be a loan. You can pay me back interest free.’

‘I can’t accept it, Chlo.’

‘Whyever not?’

‘You might need the money yourself.’

‘Nah. The bakery hasn’t cost too much so far. I’ve gone in softly-softly with any investment and if I can’t make the rent at Grey Seal Cottage, I can always move back in with Mum.’

‘Then your BP really will soar!’

Chloe blew out a breath. ‘It well might. Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. I love living in that little cottage on the cliff. I’ve even got into birdwatching using Nik’s binoculars. But, take the loan. I insist.’

‘No, Chloe. I love you and I love that you’re offering but it’s no.’

‘Stubborn cow,’ Chloe said fondly.

‘That’s me.’

‘In which case you owe me something else.’