Page 19 of The Cosy Seaside Chocolate Shop

‘These are brilliant, Bev. Ooh, you can help me crafting in the shop, now I know you’re a natural.’

‘It’s been so much fun,’ added Laura. ‘Now do I get to lick the bowl?’

‘Sure do. And when they are finally set, I’ll give you all goody bags of them to take home.’

‘That sounds great,’ said Chloe. ‘Better keep James away from them or I’ll not get a look-in.’

‘Brill, but can I take Bev’s ones instead? They look so much more appealing than mine!’ said Jess.

‘Keep your hands off, you!’ Bev threatened. ‘Oh, okay, I’ll donate one or two then.’

The evening carried on with the sounds of chatter and laughter, ending with an impromptu medley of chocolate and confectionery inspired songs. ‘You’re Sweet Like Chocolate’ being Holly’s contribution (they all knew she was singing about Adam), ‘Sweet Caroline’ a tentative link from Ali, ‘Sugar, Sugar’ from Jo, ‘The Candy Man Can’ from Sheila, and a fabulous twist on ‘I Love Rock ’n’ Roll’ by Bev which turned into ‘I Love Rocky Road’ which they all chanted happily along with as a grand finale, with much table drumming and arm swaying.

All too soon, it was time for the group of ladies to go; the time had flown and it was nearing midnight.

‘Past the Cinderella hour,’ Sheila sighed. ‘Sorry, folks, it’s been great fun, but I have a shop to open in the morning.’

‘Hotel Reception to run,’ echoed Laura.

‘Yes, “Doctors’ surgery, how can I help you?”’ Ali put on her best receptionist voice.

‘Sixth Form …’ Holly began. ‘Ooh no, bliss, it’s Saturday.’ Holly was gleeful.

‘But you are working for me,’ Emma reminded her.

‘Oops, yes. I’ll be here, never fear.’

‘Well, it’s been amazing, Em.’ Jo was sporting an extra-wide prosecco-fuelled smile.

‘Just brilliant. Thank you,’ said Jess.

‘These prosecco nights will be fabulous.’ Chloe gave her a big thumbs-up. ‘As soon as you get your licence we’ll all spread the word for you.’

‘I’m sure the hotel guests will love it, too. Especially for birthdays, special occasions and the like. It’ll be perfect,’ Laura added. ‘I’d be happy to put some fliers out for you. They already love the turndown chocolates as it is.’

‘We’ll be behind you all the way.’ Sheila grinned.

‘And if you ever need any more practice runs …’ offered Ali with a cheeky smile.

‘Aw, thank you. Love the support from you lot.’ Emma gave them all hugs on their way out.

She closed the shop door with a happy sigh. There was just her and Bev, who’d offered to stay and help tidy up. It had been such a good night, and just what Emma had needed after the shock of Nate’s appearance and that blast from the past.

10

Soon afterwards, that same evening, Bev was wiping down the tables so the shop would be shipshape for opening in the morning.

‘Well, that seemed to go down well,’ her friend confirmed with a grin.

‘Yes, I’m so pleased. I really think it will work. Thanks so much for the idea.’

‘You’re welcome. Yep, it’s been great tonight.’

Emma didn’t answer. Tiredness, as well as all her tumbled thoughts over the past couple of days, were now creeping up on her.

‘Em, you okay, hun?’

‘Yeah, why?’