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‘Sounds and smells great. But you’re too good to me.’

‘Nonsense. You looked after my sister and nephew so well. You nurses don’t even have a tip jar like we do, and your jobs are far more important.’

‘Not sure I agree. Without your caffeine, I wouldn’t make it to lunchtime some days!’

‘Give me a couple of minutes, I’m still setting up.’ She headed back into the kitchen.

‘Of course, take your time.’ Mia started checking her emails while she waited.

‘Twice in two days. This is a treat.’

Mia looked up, surprised. ‘Hello. Are you following me?’

‘Well, I was here first, so technically I think you’re following me.’ Aiden grinned, looking far better than anyone should in his ridiculous poufy white kitchen hat. ‘Good morning, Mia.’

‘Good morning right back atcha. I like your hat,’ she couldn’t resist teasing.

‘Far more masculine than a hairnet, don’t you think?’ He struck a ridiculously camp pose, surprising a burst of laughter from her.

‘What are you doing here?’

‘Baking trial.’ He held up a tray of delicious-smelling pastries. ‘I need more space and better equipment than Ophelia’s got, so I’m hoping to strike a deal with Cheryl: I help with the morning bakes a couple of days a week in exchange for kitchen space. If she likes my food.’

‘If yesterday’s sample was anything to go by, you’ll nail it.’

‘Nice of you to have so much confidence in me.’

‘I’m confident in what I’ve eaten so far.’

‘Really?’ He looked at her as if he could see right through to her thoughts and she felt heat rise in her cheeks. Could he see that she’d slept badly – and, worse, did he know why?

‘Your shortbread and tea were delicious. You obviously know your flavours.’

‘You mean my sex cookies?’

‘I’m going to regret that comment, aren’t I?’

‘Probably.’ He chuckled.

‘You’ll have to come up with a better name for them.’

‘Hmm. How about Beltane Banger Cookies?’

‘It should be Beltane Banger Biscuits. Then you could shorten it to Triple Bs!’ Mia laughed. ‘What’s today’s test?’

‘Lemon, matcha and poppy-seed muffins for an energising start, or honey almond pastry twists for a more relaxing, sweeter morning.’

‘Which would you like to try?’ Cheryl came back out holding the takeout cup Mia was so desperate for.

‘Lemon please.’ A bit of invigoration sounded ideal. So long as it wasn’t the type she’d experienced last night!

3

‘They really are beautiful choices.’ Aiden finished wrapping the purchases for Glimmers’ latest customer. ‘I’ve popped one of the leaflets on basic crystal usage in the bag, along with your massage oils.’

‘Thank you. I really appreciate your expertise.’

‘You’re welcome.’ Aiden wouldn’t admit to the customer that he picked based more on instinct than knowledge. ‘I hope your wife loves them.’