Page 52 of Bea's Book Wagon
‘Just look at this: guinea fowl, truffle, caviar,’ whispered Bea.
‘I know, right,’ said Lochlan, raising his champagne flute. ‘Here’s to spending time together.’
‘Thank you,’ Bea said, leaning back in her chair as Rachel placed the first course in front of them. ‘This looks great.’
‘Mmmm,’ said Lochlan, putting a forkful of truffle arancini into his mouth, ‘Oh my God, Bea, you have to try this,’ he said, holding up his fork.
‘Ooooh,’ she murmured, ‘that’s so good.’
‘Right?’
‘I could get used to this,’ she said, taking another bite.
‘Well, I’d have to learn to cook first,’ laughed Lochlan. ‘Beans on toast is more my level.’
‘Oh, I’m not suggesting you cook, we should just come here every weekend,’ she laughed.
‘So, we’re going to be spending our weekends together then?’ asked Lochlan, reaching for her hand.
‘Maybe…’ she whispered.
‘Hey, I’d like to spend more time with you,’ he said. ‘I really like you.’
‘Good to know,’ she said, blushing.
‘The other night was pretty special,’ he said, ‘you know, back at yours…’
‘Yeah, I know,’ she said, her cheeks turning an even deeper shade of pink. She was very much hoping for a repeat performance later.
‘Well, next time you fancy beans on toast at mine…’
‘With grated cheese on top?’
‘Absolutely,’ he laughed.
‘Then I’m in.’
* * *
After working their way through the six-course tasting menu, Marcel, the chef, came out of the kitchen to introduce himself.
‘I hope you enjoyed the food this evening?’ he asked, warmly.
‘It was out of this world,’ said Lochlan.
‘It was the best meal I’ve ever had,’ agreed Bea. ‘This place is going to be a huge success.’
‘You’re very kind, thank you,’ said Marcel, taking their plates. ‘And now a stroll around the vineyard, yes?’ he asked.
* * *
‘Wow,’ said Bea, as she and Lochlan walked slowly through the vines. ‘Look at the stars,’ she said, gazing upwards.
‘I told you those wellies would come in handy,’ he laughed, steadying her as she slipped in the mud.
‘Whoops, nearly,’ said Bea, holding on to him tightly. ‘I think all that wine’s gone to my head.’
‘No problem,’ said Lochlan, lacing his arm through hers. ‘I think Phoebe said there’s a viewing platform on top of that hill.’
