Obsessed | Jude Bellingham

16

Bianca Dawson
My Army
•••

Jude was away for his match, and Alexis was still out of town, but they were both returning today for Denise's birthday celebration. The theme was all white, and everyone got the memo—except Alexis. I had forgotten to tell her that the theme had changed from 80s fashion to minimalist all white.

Antonio had been in the kitchen since 6 a.m. getting everything ready. Marisol and Elena helped with decor and setting up. It felt like we had a whole team, but it was just the four of us.

As the close friends and family members of the Bellinghams started arriving, I directed them to where they could leave their gifts and where they could find the buffet. Light music played in the background, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I was proud of what I had managed to put together.

Jude finally arrived, looking quite handsome in his all-white outfit. The moment he saw me, he came over and gave me a warm hug. He was quite affectionate, and I could tell his love language was physical touch.

"You really transformed this place," he laughed. "I wasn't expecting to see the cutouts of her, but this really means a lot to me. I know she's going to love it."

"Thank you. It was no problem. She's the best, and she deserves the best," I smiled.

Jude mingled and interacted with his family and friends, while I chatted with Jobe. When he texted that they were outside, I turned off the music and gave everyone the cue. The moment Denise entered, she was greeted with the warmest surprise. Her face lit up immediately when she saw a room full of everyone she loves.

"Wow! I'm truly surprised," she said, clearly at a loss for words as she started hugging everyone nearby. I turned the music back on, and everyone resumed enjoying themselves.

"Happy birthday, Mrs. B," I said, giving her a hug and handing her my gift.

"Thank you, darling. You really didn't have to," she said, taking the gift and hugging me. "Jude just told me you did all of this."

"Well, I had help from Marisol, Elena, and Antonio. I can't take all the credit," I smiled.

"I will thank them when I find them, but I know it was your idea, and I want you to know it's really appreciated," she said. "Also, what's behind this wrapper?"

"That conversation we had after the game—I learned so much about you. I hope you like it," I said with a nod. She looked at me curiously, and Jude joined us as she tore off the wrapper to reveal a signed copy of José Mourinho's book, someone she had mentioned she looked up to in the football world.

"A signed copy? I have no words," she said before pulling me into a hug. "You are too sweet. Thank you, my dear."

"She fancied him for years. Good gift—better than mine," Jude said. I was about to respond when Alexis caught my attention.

"What on earth is she wearing?" Denise whispered.

There she was, with a spiked wig, looking as if the 80s had eaten her up and spat her out.

"I was so busy ensuring everything was going fine, I completely forgot to update her about the switch in theme," I said.

By now, everyone was looking at her. She was looking at everyone until she spotted us.

"I'm so sorry. I know she's going to be mad at me," I said.

Denise put a reassuring hand on my arm. "It's okay, dear. We'll handle it."

As Alexis made her way over, I braced myself for her meltdown. Jude stepped in front of me slightly, as if to shield me from any potential confrontation.