Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 9

It was a bright and sunny Saturday morning, and Jasper was eager to spend the day with his friends and his twin brother, Casper. The Harrison household was always a hub of activity, but today, with their parents away again, the boys had the place to themselves. Jasper had invited his closest friends—Dylan, Myles, and Tyler—over for a day of swimming, gaming, and, as usual, some mischief.

By mid-morning, the group had gathered in the spacious backyard, where the Harrison's pool sparkled invitingly in the sun. Jasper and Casper were already in the water, splashing around, while Dylan and Tyler lounged on the deck chairs. Myles was the last to arrive, tossing his bag down and jumping into the pool with a big splash.

"About time, Myles!" Jasper called out, wiping the water from his face. "Thought you'd bailed on us."

Myles grinned as he surfaced. "Wouldn't miss it, mate. You know that."

The boys spent the next hour or so swimming, racing each other across the pool, and attempting ridiculous dives from the side. The air was filled with their laughter and shouts as they enjoyed the freedom of a weekend with no adults around to keep them in check.

"Alright, I'm starving," Dylan announced as he pulled himself out of the pool, water dripping from his hair. "How about we head inside and get some snacks?"

"Sounds good," Casper agreed, following his lead. "Plus, I'm ready to beat you all at the arcade."

Jasper smirked, grabbing a towel and tossing one to his brother. "You wish, Casp. I'm the king of the arcade."

They all headed into Jasper's bedroom, the boys quickly settled in, with Jasper and Tyler claiming the arcade machines while Dylan and Myles raided the mini fridge for snacks. As the games began, the room filled with the sounds of buttons being mashed, cheers, and the occasional groan of defeat.

"I told you, Casp," Jasper crowed as he scored yet another win. "King of the arcade."

Casper rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a grin. "Only because you've had years of practice, bro."

As the afternoon wore on, the boys decided to take their fun outside again. Jasper grabbed a football, and they all headed to the nearby park, which was usually quiet on weekends. The sun was still shining brightly, and the empty goalposts beckoned them for a game.

"Alright, let's see what you lot are made of," Jasper said as they reached the park, tossing the ball down and kicking it to Dylan.

The boys quickly divided into teams and started playing, their competitive spirits flaring as they tried to outdo each other with tricks and goals. Jasper, who was particularly skilled, relished in showing off his moves. At one point, feeling the heat of the day, he peeled off his shirt, revealing his toned six-pack.

"Trying to impress someone, Jasp?" Tyler joked, dribbling the ball past him.

"Just trying to stay cool, mate," Jasper shot back, though he couldn't help but notice a few glances from passersby. He knew he was in good shape, and while he didn't usually show off, it didn't hurt to remind everyone now and then.

After a while, the boys took a break, panting and sweaty from the game. As they sat on the grass, Dylan pulled a couple of cans of beer out of his bag, holding them up with a grin. "Thought we could use something to cool us down."

Jasper eyed the cans, a smirk playing on his lips. "And where'd you get those?"

"Swiped them from my dad's stash," Dylan replied, tossing a can to Jasper. "Figured we deserve a little reward."

Jasper caught the can and cracked it open, taking a swig. The cold beer was refreshing, and he felt a small thrill at the idea of doing something he knew was against the rules. The others followed suit, opening their cans and taking long drinks.