Taxi to Fox & Crown

You slide into the taxi after Clara, strategically positioning yourself on her right side. When David follows, he's **** to take the seat on her other side, creating the buffer you wanted. The taxi pulls away from the curb, streetlights strobing across your faces as you head toward the pub.

"I can't believe how gorgeous you look," Clara gushes, her fingers lightly touching your copper waves. "These extensions are perfection. David's been absolutely speechless since you walked out."

David clears his throat from Clara's other side. "The transformation is... remarkable."

"Transformation?" Clara questions, raising an eyebrow.

"The makeover," David corrects quickly, meeting your eyes over Clara's head. "From how she looked this morning to now."

Clara laughs, oblivious to the loaded exchange. "Speaking of drinks, I'm thinking something fruity and strong. What about you, Mia?"

The name still gives you a jolt, even as it feels increasingly natural to respond to it. "Maybe just a glass of wine to start."

"Playing it safe?" Clara's hand lands on your thigh, just below where your wrap dress has ridden up. "After that kiss, I wouldn't have pegged you as cautious."

Her touch sends a strange flutter through your stomach—not unpleasant, but definitely unfamiliar. Your body responds in ways your mind doesn't fully comprehend, a disconnect that leaves you momentarily breathless.

"The Fox is packed on Saturday nights," David interjects, his voice tight. "We'll be lucky to find a table."

"Don't be such a downer," Clara chides, squeezing your thigh. "I know the manager. We'll get sorted."

The taxi pulls up outside the pub, golden light spilling from its windows onto the pavement. The bass line of music thumps faintly through the walls. A small queue has formed at the door.

"Let me," David says, paying the driver before either of you can reach for your purses.

As you step out onto the pavement, Clara links arms with both you and David, positioning herself in the middle as you approach the entrance. "My gorgeous escorts for the evening," she says with a laugh.

The doorman recognizes Clara immediately. "Miss Walker! Good to see you." He unclips the rope barrier. "Go right in."

The interior of the Fox & Crown hits you with a wall of sound, conversation, laughter, and music blending into a cacophony. The space is packed with Saturday night revelers—groups of friends crowded around high tables, couples pressed into corners, singles eyeing the room from the bar. Despite the traditional pub exterior, inside it's been modernized with sleek fixtures and ambient lighting that casts everyone in a flattering glow.

"I'll get drinks," David offers, clearly eager for a mission. "Same as usual, Clara? And Mia, white wine?"

"Make it a vodka cranberry," Clara answers for you with a wink. "Trust me, you'll want something stronger than wine tonight."

Before you can protest, David disappears into the crowd, leaving you alone with Clara. She leads you toward a miraculously empty high-top table in the corner, her hand on the small of your back.

"So," she says once you're seated, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "That kiss. Where did that come from?"

22:00 | Saturday 2 August 2025 | Fox & Crown pub, Putney