Bea's Book Wagon, page 7
‘Great,’ said Bea and Jess in unison.
‘Pepperoni okay?’ he asked. Bea and Jess nodded. How’s all this going?’ he said, pointing towards the laptop.
‘Good,’ Bea nodded. ‘There’s still a long way to go, but I’m getting there.’
‘We’re painting at the weekend, if you fancy helping?’ said Jess.
‘I’m around, so sure, I’ll help,’ said Archie, tapping away on his phone
‘Thanks, Arch,’ said Bea.
‘Food’s on its way,’ he said, shoving his phone back in his pocket.
‘Excellent!’ said Bea.
‘I’ve got some work to finish. Can you listen out for the door?’ he asked.
‘Sure,’ said Bea, as Archie headed back upstairs. ‘That was weird. Offering to help with the painting? If I didn’t know any better, I’d think he was up to something…’
‘Like what?’
‘I’m not sure exactly,’ said Bea, eyes narrowed.
‘How’s it going, the two of you living together?’
‘To be fair, we’ve not seen that much of each other, we’ve both been so busy. He finally seems to have figured out how to load a dishwasher, though, so that’s a bonus.’
‘That must be a relief,’
‘Yeah, it is.’
‘Anyway, what I really want to know is, how was the date with Lochlan?’ Jess asked.
‘Good, I think. It always feels a bit strange at first, doesn’t it? Small talk, awkward silences—’
‘There were awkward silences?’ Jess asked, looking concerned.
‘Well, no, not really. We both seemed pretty comfortable with each other.’
‘Comfortable? Bea, is that what you want from a first date?’
‘Well, not really, I suppose.’
‘Was there any chemistry?’
‘I think so. He’s gorgeous, he makes me nervous—’
‘And?’ said Jess, leaning forward.
‘When he climbed out of the river, wet T-shirt clinging to his chest… it was like something out of a Diet Coke ad.’
‘Well,’ said Jess, ‘that sounds sexy.’
‘It was,’ Bea sighed, picturing the moment.
‘Just make sure you’re not rushing in, though,’ Jess warned. ‘I get that he’s good looking, and right now he probably seems perfect but—’
‘I am taking it slow, but I can still get caught up in the moment, can’t I?’
‘Of course,’ said Jess, a smile escaping her lips.
‘He came into the café today all suited and booted. He looked… hot. Mum popped in as well, so I had to introduce them and—’
‘Hang on, your mum’s met him?’
‘I know,’ said Bea, grimacing, ‘It wasn’t planned, believe me.’
‘God, I bet!’
‘She was on her way to see your mum, actually.’
‘So, what did you do?’ Jess laughed.
‘Well, Lochlan kind of dropped me in it by saying we’d been out for a drink, so I had to pretend we’d just bumped into each other. I’m not sure Mum bought it, to be honest.’
‘You’re a terrible liar, there’s no way she doesn’t think that was a date.’
‘You’re probably right,’ Bea sighed. ‘It’s not like it’s some big secret, but you know what Mum’s like. She’ll insist I bring him over for dinner so she can grill him and, well, it’s still early days.’
‘Hey, I get it, my mum’s exactly the same,’ Jess agreed. ‘So, are you seeing him again?’
‘Yeah, Thursday.’
‘Where are you going?’
‘I’m not sure,’ said Bea, shrugging, ‘it’s a surprise, apparently.’
‘Ooooh, I wonder where he’s taking you?’ said Jess.
‘I don’t know, but I can’t wait to find out!’
* * *
Bea was really struggling to concentrate on anything other than her date with Lochlan. She’d gone to Three Acre Farm to work on the horsebox, hoping it would take her mind off it.
It didn’t.
If anything, she was clock-watching more than ever. By mid-afternoon, her shoulders were aching and her back was sore from all the sanding and scrubbing.
‘How’s it going?’ said Nathan, walking into the barn with a plate of biscuits. ‘These are from Mum,’ he said.
‘Ah, brilliant, I’m starving,’ said Bea, biting into one. ‘Mmmm… delicious.’
‘Looks like all the prep is pretty much done,’ said Nathan, inspecting the horsebox. ‘Sorry I’ve not been able to help much, it’s been hectic—’
‘Don’t be silly. I don’t expect you to drop everything to help me all the time, you know.’
‘I know, but if I could, I would.’
‘Well, that’s very sweet of you,’ said Bea, smiling broadly. ‘I think I’ll be able to start painting on Saturday. Archie and Jess are going to help.’
‘I’ve not seen Archie in ages, it’ll be good to see him.’
‘Don’t stop working, though, I know how much you’ve got to do here. If you can help then great, but honestly, it’ll be fine if you can’t.’
‘Okay, well I’ll see how I get on,’ said Nathan, grabbing a cookie from the plate and shoving it into his mouth whole.
‘God, is that the time?’ said Bea, glancing down at her watch. ‘I’d best be off, I’ve got a, erm… a date tonight.’
‘A date?’ asked Nathan, looking taken aback. ‘Who with?’
‘Someone called Lochlan. He lives around here, maybe you know him?’
‘Lochlan,’ said Nathan, shaking his head. ‘Don’t think so. Well, have fun.’
‘Thanks, Nate,’ said Bea, planting a kiss on his cheek. ‘See you Saturday, then!’
‘Yep, see you Saturday.’
* * *
Nathan was surprised to hear that Bea was dating. He knew she’d split from Rory when she’d left London, but she hadn’t said anything about seeing anyone new, although why would she?
It’s just that they’d been spending a lot more time together recently, and he’d often wondered if there might still be something between them. Okay, it was nearly ten years since they’d been together, but it was purely circumstance that had caused them to break up: Bea was heading off to university and he was staying right here in Blossom Heath. If she hadn’t left, who knows where it could have led?
Lochlan? Nathan definitely couldn’t place the name, despite everyone knowing everyone around here, and a name like Lochlan wasn’t easy to forget.
Anyway, it was only a date, it wasn’t like Bea was planning to marry the guy. Nathan was just curious, he supposed; curious as to who Lochlan was and why Bea seeing him seemed to bother him quite so much.
CHAPTER 10
‘Bloody hell, Bea! Who is this guy?’ said Archie, peering out the window as Lochlan’s bright red convertible pulled up outside. ‘It’s a Maserati. He’s must have some serious cash; that thing’s worth over £100k!’
‘£100k? For a car? That’s crazy!’
‘What did you say he does?’
‘He’s a property developer. Anyway, I’ll see you later, don’t wait up.’
Bea didn’t know much about cars, but as Lochlan jumped out and opened the passenger door for her, she couldn’t help but be a little impressed.
‘Wow, Bea. You look gorgeous,’ he said, kissing her on the cheek.
God he smelled good.
Bea was wearing an emerald-green wrap dress with a low neckline, ridiculously high heels and bright red lipstick. It wasn’t the kind of look she usually went for, but she had to admit she felt sexy as hell.
‘I like the car,’ she said, as Lochlan sped away from the kerb.
‘I know, right? She’s my pride and joy.’
‘She? Don’t tell me you name your cars too. My friend does that,’ she said, her mind turning to Nathan. She wondered what he was up to this evening.
‘Really?’
‘Uh-huh. So, where are we off to? The suspense is killing me.’
‘You’ll have to wait a bit longer, I’m afraid. I hope you’re hungry, though?’
‘Always,’ Bea laughed.
‘Good. The seafood at this place is out of this world.’
‘Ah, so we’re going for dinner?’
‘Not just any dinner, and not just any restaurant…’
‘Well, we’re not going into Hastings or Rye,’ she said, as Lochlan turned the car in the opposite direction to both. ‘So, where?’
‘Brighton!’
‘Brighton?’ she repeated. That was over an hour’s drive away, at least.
‘It’s worth it, this place is amazing. All the celebs go there, it’s called Canteen 64.’
‘Wasn’t Tom Holland seen there the other week? I’m sure I saw something about it on the Spotted in Sussex Instagram feed.’
‘Probably. It’s the only restaurant I go to, nowadays, unless I’m in London. Rye’s not up to much.’
‘Oh? I’ve always quite liked it…’
‘Wait until you’ve eaten here. I promise it’ll blow your mind.’
‘Well, it sounds great. I can’t wait,’ she replied, getting comfy in her seat, trying to ignore the niggle in the back of her mind that Lochlan’s dismissive attitude to the local restaurants had lodged there.
* * *
The journey to Brighton passed quickly, and in no time at all they’d arrived at a stunning glass-fronted building at the end of a long, private driveway, illuminated by flaming torches. Valets in green velvet jackets were waiting to welcome guests at the entrance, swiftly taking Lochlan’s car keys and directing them inside. It felt like something out of a movie.
‘Mr Thompson, so lovely to see you again,’ said a beautiful hostess waiting to greet them. ‘Your usual table?’
‘Please, Daniella,’ Lochlan nodded.
Bea took in the stunning design as she followed Lochlan and the hostess into the restaurant. Everything screamed elegance, from the gilt-edged furniture to the lavish green, velvet décor. There was even a mermaid ice-sculpture next to the bar, where a pair of immaculately dressed barmen were throwing cocktail shakers in the air. Bea had never been anywhere like it before and, if she was honest, it made her feel a little self-conscious.
‘Don’t look now, but Cate Blanchett’s here,’ Lochlan whispered, leaning in towards Bea as they sat down. Bea chanced a sideways glance and spotted the movie star a few tables away.
‘Bloody hell, you’re right,’ she muttered.
‘Can I get you some drinks to start with?’ Daniella asked, not taking her eyes off Lochlan.
‘Vodka martini, please,’ said Lochlan, handing Bea the drinks menu.
‘Oh, sorry. I’ll just have a look,’ said Bea, scanning it frantically.
‘Take your time,’ said Daniella, through a thin-lipped smile.
‘I’ll have an espresso martini, please,’ said Bea.
‘Excellent choice, Madam,’ said Daniella, looking at her with disdain. Bea noticed that she seemed to float rather than walk, as she moved through the restaurant.
‘Wow, this place is amazing,’ said Bea.
‘Told you you’d love it,’ said Lochlan.
‘I can’t believe Cate Blanchett is here. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a celeb in real life before, unless you count that guy from The One Show, and I’m not sure I do.’
‘Last time I was here, the paparazzi were outside trying to get a shot of Paul McCartney before he left.’
‘Wow, that’s proper A-list,’ said Bea, impressed.
‘I’m glad you like it,’ said Lochlan, a smile lighting up his face. Bea felt her stomach do a little flip.
‘Your drinks,’ said Daniella, placing the martinis in front of them. ‘Are you ready to order?’
‘Sorry, I haven’t had chance to look,’ said Bea, reaching for the menu.
‘Why don’t I order for both of us?’ said Lochlan, taking it from her and closing it shut.
‘Erm… okay. I’m a bit of a fussy eater though, so maybe—’
‘We’ll take the oysters to start, and then sea bass for both of us.’
‘Oh, I’m not sure I like oysters—’
‘You’ll love them,’ said Lochlan, handing the menus back to Daniella, who sashayed away. ‘They’re divine.’
‘Okay, well, if you’re sure…’ said Bea, taking a sip of espresso martini. ‘God, that’s delicious.’
‘To us,’ said Lochlan, raising his glass.
‘Erm, yes, to us,’ she replied, clinking her glass against his.
‘So, how are you getting on with the horsebox? Still doing it up?’ he asked.
‘Yep, although it doesn’t look all that different yet. I’m getting started on the painting at the weekend, so hopefully that should transform it.’
‘When are you planning on opening?’
‘By the first May bank holiday, if I can get everything ready in time. It’s the village fête that weekend, so it would be the perfect time to launch,’ she said. ‘There’s still lots to do and I need to start sourcing more stock, work out pricing; there’s a lot to think about,’ she explained, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the enormity of the task ahead.
‘I’m sure you’ll get it ready in time.’
‘I hope you’re right,’ said Bea, her stomach churning. ‘I’ve got a call with a wholesaler tomorrow, so that’s a start.’
‘So, books are pretty important to you?’ he asked.
‘Well, I’m opening a mobile bookshop, so I guess you could say that,’ Bea laughed.
‘You light up when you talk about it, you know? It’s good to have things in life you’re passionate about, Bea,’ he said, fixing his eyes on her.
‘What about you? Do you read?’
‘I try to, but I never seem to get the time these days,’ he said.
‘That’s a shame.’
‘I’m really busy with work, and when I do get any free time I tend to go for a run or hit the gym; do something physical, after being stuck at a desk all day.’
‘Have you tried audiobooks? You can plug in when you’re running, in the car—’
‘That’s a great idea!’ Lochlan said with enthusiasm. ‘I don’t know why I’ve never thought of it.’
‘Try Audible, or the library has a great app, too,’ she said, pulling out her phone to show him her current read, the latest romcom by Marian Keyes. ‘What kind of books do you like?’ she asked, scrolling through some suggestions on her phone.
‘Well—’
‘No, don’t tell me,’ she said, holding up a hand, ‘let me guess.’ she continued, scanning his face. ‘Hmmmm… I don’t think you’re a thriller guy,’ she said, drumming her fingers on the tabletop, ‘but fiction, definitely fiction.’
‘Keep going,’ said Lochlan, grinning.
‘Sci-fi!’ she said, after a lengthy pause. ‘Terry Pratchett?’
‘Wow, impressive,’ said Lochlan, leaning back in his chair. ‘You’re spot on. The Colour of Magic is brilliant.’
‘I know, right?’ Bea agreed, taking another sip of her drink. ‘Have you read The Light Fantastic?’
‘Not yet,’ he said, shaking his head. ‘Like I said, I don’t have a great deal of time.’
‘Well, we can definitely fix that,’ said Bea, beaming at him. ‘Come into the library next time I’m working, I can help you join and set you up on BorrowBox. You’ll be hooked on audiobooks in no time.’
‘Your oysters,’ said a waiter, placing a giant platter on the table in front of them. They looked… disgusting.
‘So, what you do,’ said Lochlan, picking one up, ‘is loosen it from the shell with your fork, like this,’ he continued, giving it a wiggle, ‘then slurp it, but don’t forget to chew. Like this,’ he said, throwing back his head and chewing several times before swallowing. ‘Delicious.’
‘Okay,’ said Bea, plucking an oyster from the platter, trying not to retch at the smell.
Why did it look like a giant bogey?
‘That’s it,’ Lochlan said, encouragingly. ‘Now just chew and swallow.’
‘Right, yes,’ said Bea, sucking in a deep breath.
Three, two, one… she threw back her head and in it went. Why was it so damn chewy?
It tasted disgusting, unimaginably disgusting. She was going to bring it straight back up, she knew it. She reached for her martini, downing the remainder of it in one.
‘And? Aren’t they delicious?’ Lochlan asked, keenly.
‘Delicious, yeah,’ she lied. ‘Very… fresh.’
‘I knew you’d love them,’ said Lochlan, beaming at her from across the table.
‘I just need to go and powder my nose,’ said Bea, grabbing her clutch bag. There was no way on earth she could eat another one.
‘I’ll save you some.’
‘I don’t want to spoil my main,’ she said, almost too quickly. ‘Honestly, you finish them.’
‘If you’re sure?’
‘Oh, I am,’ she said, standing up.
As she made her way through to the back of the restaurant, Bea realized that, no matter how hot Lochlan looked, she’d happily stay in the bathroom all night if it meant she didn’t have to eat another oyster.
CHAPTER 11
The Apple Tree was packed when Bea, Jess, Archie and Nathan arrived after a hard day working on the wagon. Bea had to force her way through the crowds to get served at the bar.
‘Three pints of cider and a double whisky, please, Beth,’ said Bea, pulling out her purse when it was finally her turn.
‘Coming right up,’ said Beth, pulling the first pint. ‘So, how are you? Settling in?’
‘Yeah, good, thanks. I really like it here, everyone’s been so welcoming.’
‘That’s Blossom Heath for you. I’ve been hearing all about your book wagon; it’s the talk of the village, you know.’
‘It is?’ said Bea, her eyes wide in amazement.
‘Yeah, Maggie’s been filling us in. A mobile bookshop? What a treat! I’d much rather buy from an actual person than online.’
‘Oh, me too! What do you usually read?’
‘I’m a true crime fan, the grislier the better. Can’t get enough of the stuff.’
‘Really?’ said Bea, surprised. ‘I’m not sure I’d have guessed that, and I’m usually good at figuring out—’
