Page 36 of Bea's Book Wagon
‘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.
