Passing "The Bee Orchid" always call in, I love the fact it is on the way to town, gives me a chance of having a quick chat and if I am lucky a cup of tea. Popped my head around the door just to say a quick "hello"
"AV could you look after the shop" asked my neice "Okay" I said "But what if someone comes in?" I was assured that Claire wouldn't be a minute and that the prospect of having a customer in the short time she was going to be away was minimal.
I happily settled down to read the newspaper. Horror of horrors the door bell tinkled and in walked a customer. I know you are supposed to look pleased to see potential client but I shot up off the stool like I had a firework up my backside.
"Can I help you" I enquired with trepidation, knowing only too well no matter what the lady wanted I wouldn't be able to help at all!
"Yes, I would like two bunches of carnations wrapped for a gift" she offered. "Oh, heck" I heard myself muttering, I realised that I didn't have Claire's mobile phone number. I decided to come clean. I explained that I was standing in whilst the owner of the shop had popped out and that I didn't have a clue how to professionally wrap anything.
"Not to worry" she said brightly "I will have this instead" she handed me a vase and orchid the price clearly stated £5.99. She then proceeded to wrap the vase herself in some brightly coloured yellow paper whilst I looked on with gratitude. Pleased with her efforts she handed me the money and wished me goodbye. Disaster averted!
I haven't heard from my prospective lodger 'Sal' I have the feeling that the 10 minute questioning he suffered at the hands of my family have put him off for life. It doesn't matter to me as it would have been a true sign of his character if he had taken up the room, anyone who can cope with a drilling from my family must be made of stern stuff!