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‘Answer something honestly for me?’

‘I’ll try.’

‘Was there a single jar in my kitchen you didn’t want to open?’

He laughed. ‘There might have been some temptation. Especially the top shelf ones.’

‘So you’ll do it?’

‘Yeah. I’d like to… But I don’t have any qualifications in this.’

‘You seem qualified to me.’

‘I meant food safety, or whatever.’

‘We’ll get it sorted.’

‘Sounds good. Next week, then. But I should probably get going.’ He hesitated. ‘What does Glimmers and Sparkles mean?’

‘It’s my life’s philosophy. Do you know what triggers are? Like when you might have to give someone a trigger warning about something?’

‘You mean how something that’s a little thing to one person can set off bad memories or trigger a negative response in another?’

‘Exactly that.’ Ophelia nodded. ‘Glimmers are the opposite. A glimmer is a small thing: a quiet, but powerful, positive moment that triggers wonderful emotions; a subtle spark that can evoke joy, peace and calm – and turn around your entire day for the better.’

‘Like seeing a rainbow?’

‘Yes. But it can be even smaller than that. Like putting on your favourite jumper, or getting a message from an old friend.’

‘Or a hug from a new one?’

‘Exactly.’ She smiled.

‘What about sparkles?’

‘Sparkles are a lot more powerful. They light you up and can trigger changes, sparking imagination and motivation. The right spark for the right person at the right time can be life-changing.’

‘Wow.’ He grinned. ‘I think I’m going to like working here.’

‘I think I’m going to like it too. It was really good to meet you, Aiden.’

‘Thanks. You too.’ He headed to the shop door, and was surprised to find the sign flipped to closed. He turned back to look at Ophelia, feeling a sudden flash of guilt. ‘I’m so sorry, I hadn’t realised you were shut.’

‘I’m not. Not really. I just knew you needed my attention.’

‘But I’ve cost you business.’

‘You needed my attention,’ she repeated, more firmly. ‘And I had a feeling you’d be worth it. I was right. You’re going to fit in really well here.’

‘You sound very sure.’

‘I am. I can’t always remember where my keys are, but my instincts are usually spot on. And the shop already likes you.’

He didn’t know what to say to that, so opened the door.

‘I’ll see you next week.’

‘Next week.’ He nodded and stepped back into the street, where the sun was now glistening off the rapidly drying cobbles.