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“Dark.”

“Do you have a favorite flavor?”

“Whatever you give me will be great.”

Holly chose a dark chunk of coffee infused chocolate and lifted it from the box.

Avel opened his mouth, and after a second of hesitation, she popped it inside.

“Thanks.” He licked his lips. “Another fabulous creation.”

“You’ll give me a big head if you keep saying things like that,” Holly said. “I need constructive criticism. I need to know how to make these better.”

Avel tilted his head to the side. “Feed me another one.”

She grinned and popped another chocolate into his mouth. “That’s the same flavor. Is there anything missing?”

“It’s smooth and rich. It would go well after a meal with a mug of coffee and maybe a whiskey. Yes, that would be perfect with this.”

“Whiskey infused chocolate,” Holly said. “That’s popular on Earth. We often had it around the holiday season.”

“Alcohol and chocolate is a perfect combination,” Avel said. “It’s not commonly found in space. It would be a hit. Holly’s Drunken Delights.”

“That’s a great idea,” Holly said. “Although, the name needs work. You’ll have to taste test those for me. I’m not a fan of alcohol.”

“I’m happy to get drunk and eat chocolate anytime you ask, sugar.”

She smiled at him. Avel was straight talking and honest. She liked that. His work might take him along a dark path now and again, but he had a good heart.

“I hope all my potential customers like my chocolate as much as you do.”

“They’re idiots if they don’t,” Avel said. “If anyone complains, you send them my way.”

“So you can rough them up?” she teased.

Avel’s shoulders tightened. “I’ll rough them up if they mistreat you. Although, you should be able to look after yourself. You know what you want. You handle yourself with dignity.”

“I can handle myself. I had no choice but to learn how to do that.” Holly pursed her lips. She didn’t enjoy being alone. Sometimes, it was lonely, but it was better that than stay with someone who messed with her head and stamped on her joy.

Avel grunted in response, his jaw tight.

Holly sat back in her seat and studied him. Avel was a mystery. One second, he was calling her sugar then he was shutting her out. She sighed. She’d never had a clue what to do when she was with a guy. Why should it be any different with him?

She shook her head. Avel was doing this as a favor to her. He wasn’t here because there was anything between them. But what if there was? Would she like that? Could she see a future with Avel?

Her gaze shifted to the window, and she stared into space, barely seeing the bright twinkles of distant stars. This was too complicated. She couldn’t let her head get turned by Avel. There was nothing serious here.

Holly appreciated his help but wouldn’t let her feelings lead to anything. They had a deal, and it was fair. There was nothing else to it.

“Not long now,” Avel said. “I hope you’re ready to wow the world with your chocolates.”

“I don’t feel ready.” Nerves fluttered in Holly’s stomach. “This is my only shot to get it right.”

“You’ll kill it,” Avel said. “I bet you sell out.”

“I hope there’ll be a few boxes left over,” Holly said. “Actually, that’s not a bad idea.” She unbuckled from her seat and stood.

“Where are you off to?”