Page 76 of New Beginnings at the Cosy Cat Cafe
‘You look great, as always.’
‘I nearly forgot,’ said Joyce, reaching for her handbag, she pulled out a small, silver perfume bottle and sprayed scent onto her wrists.
‘Since when do you put perfume on in the middle of the day?’
‘Oh, it doesn’t hurt to make a bit of an effort – it’s a special occasion.’
‘I’ve just opened some Prosecco – let’s have a glass before anyone arrives.’
‘Do you think there’s enough?’ Joyce asked, taking a large gulp from one of the crystal flutes, which were on loan from the Apple Tree.
‘That depends. If you’re planning to keep drinking at that speed then, no, definitely not,’ Tori joked.
‘It’s just to settle the nerves, that’s all.’
‘You don’t think Violet will make an appearance, do you? It would be just like her to turn up and try to ruin things.’
‘I’m sure she wouldn’t do that, love. She seems to have gone quiet since the meeting at the village hall. Hopefully that’s the end of it.’
‘Hmm… I’m not so sure…’
Tori spotted Rose, Jake and Grace through the window.
‘They’re here!’ she squealed, grabbing her mum’s arm.
‘Well, don’t just stand there, let them in!’
Tori, setting down her glass, dashed to unlock the front doors.
‘Tori!’ cried Rose, pulling her friend close. ‘How’s it all going? I’m so excited!’
‘Me too!’ said Tori, leaning back. ‘Hi guys, thanks so much for coming.’
‘Are you kidding? If there’s free food, you can count me in,’ said Jake, taking off his jacket.
‘I remember,’ said Tori, laughing.
‘Oh, while I think of it, I mentioned to Nathan, my mate from the Young Farmers’ Club, about you looking to stock some local cheeses, and he’s up for it – I’ll send you his number,’ said Jake.
‘Brilliant, thanks, Jake,’ said Tori. ‘I appreciate that.’
‘How’s everyone settling in?’ asked Grace.
‘Really well, I think, but come in and see for yourself,’ said Tori warmly, leading the way through to the café.
‘Oh, Tori! Everything looks fantastic, you’ve done an amazing job!’ said Grace, taking everything in.
‘Thanks, Grace, that means a lot coming from you,’ said Tori.
‘Has Violet been causing you any more problems?’ asked Grace, eyebrows raised.
‘Thankfully, no, so let’s hope it stays that way,’ replied Tori.
‘I bumped into her in Harrison’s the other day and she started moaning about the café as soon as she saw me. I couldn’t get away fast enough,’ said Grace.
‘Oh no!’ groaned Tori. ‘Why can’t she just let it go?’
‘Well, forget about her for today – this is your moment, Tori, enjoy it,’ said Grace.
