With top-notch retail training under my belt, I was poised to reach new heights. But an unexpected pregnancy followed by a turbulent divorce sent my life spiralling. Resolving to keep personal relationships at bay, I pursued a lofty ambition: ten stores in each of the five largest shopping malls within fifteen years.

Then fate introduced me to a struggling beauty salon, its only saving grace being Holly. Approaching fifty, yet radiating the allure of someone much younger, Holly’s past was marred by trauma. An abusive relationship left scars, pushing her into nearly two decades of seclusion.

As fate would have it, Holly joined my company just in time for our unique tradition – a ‘Christmas in July’ celebration. Retailers know the yuletide as the peak of busy seasons, so we celebrated our staff party then. As I took Holly’s hand at the Victorian-themed event, her honey-blond hair cascading over a stunning scarlet gown, I wondered: Could this chance meeting offer both of us a new beginning in love?