“Ooh, this is what I would have,” I say. “Please tell me you had it.”
Caleb chuckles. “No. The chefs here make me things based on what my dietician recommends. Both Mason and I follow eating plans designed for us and what we need as F1 drivers.”
“Well, I’m sure that’s all good, but I feel sad you didn’t get to try that french toast.”
He looks down at me, a hint of a smile playing on his full lips. “It’s tragic, actually. Here, let’s pop into the kitchen, because that is where the magic happens.”
Caleb leads me into the kitchen, which is bustling with activity. The chefs all look up when they see him and call out a greeting.
“This crew works so hard for us, having to feed so many people all day long. And not just feed us but feed us well. They do an incredible job.”
“This seems like it’s the heart of the Collings Motors hub,” I observe.
“Yes, exactly.”
We leave the staff to do their work, and I point out the luxurious coffee bar that I noticed when Catherine was showing me around. “Now this is like something out of an upscale coffeehouse.”
“This is probably the most popular feature of the motorhome,” Caleb says, grinning. “You can get all kinds of coffee and tea drinks here. This is Sydney. She’s one of our baristas, and she makes a killer latte. Say hi, Sydney.”
Sydney, who appears to be about my age, smiles shyly at the camera. “Hello,” she says.
“You can also get your latte or cappuccino with a picture printed on it,” Caleb says. “Sydney, can you show us one?”
It’s all I can do not to stare at Caleb with my mouth open. Who is this outgoing man? Why does he hide this part of himself so much? So far, he’s been authentic and engaging.
Completely unlike the Caleb we see on TV during a press conference.
Unlike the Caleb we get on the rare occasion he’s on social media.
He’s always been closed off. Until now.
“Sure thing,” Sydney says, going over to another machine.
“What would you like to drink?” Caleb asks.
Now my interview is becoming coffee with Caleb? THIS IS BRILLIANT.
“Is a hazelnut mocha latte in the realm of possibilities?” I ask.
Sydney chuckles. “Yes, of course.”
“What’s your order?” I ask Caleb.
“Latte with soy milk in the morning,” he says. “Then I’ll have a coffee with a splash of soy milk in the afternoon.”
“What about tea?” I ask.
His mouth tips into a slow smile. “I shouldn’t answer this.”
“Shouldn’t. But you will, right?”
“I’m not much of a tea drinker,” he admits. “I hope my British citizenship will not be revoked for that comment.”
“You heard it here first. Caleb Collings doesn’t drink tea. Serious breaking news!” I say.
He chuckles, and Sydney places a beautiful latte in front of me, complete with the Collings Motors logo on top of it.
“Oh, look at this!” I say, delighted. “This is so fancy!”