Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 13

It was Friday night, and Jasper was sprawled out on his bed, scrolling through his phone absentmindedly. The week had been a whirlwind of school, football, and getting closer to Alessia and her friends. He was just about to close his eyes when his phone buzzed, signalling a new message. He smiled when he saw it was from Alessia.

Alessia: Hey, just wanted to remind you about the game tomorrow. It's at 10 AM, and it's at the football pitches near St. Peter's. Meet me there? 😊

Jasper quickly typed out a reply, his fingers flying over the keyboard.

Jasper: Wouldn't miss it for the world. I'll be there with my brothers. Can't wait to see you score some goals, Princess. 😉

Alessia's reply was almost instant.

Alessia: 😘 You're the best. See you tomorrow!

Jasper set his phone down, a grin spreading across his face. He couldn't wait for tomorrow. Not only would he finally get to see Alessia play football, but he'd also be meeting her family officially for the first time. He just hoped he made a good impression.

The next morning, Jasper was up early, his excitement banishing any trace of tiredness. He showered, got dressed in a casual outfit, and headed downstairs, where Casper and Justin were already waiting.

"You ready, Jas?" Casper asked, slinging an arm over his brother's shoulders.

"Yeah, let's go," Jasper replied, grabbing his jacket.

The three brothers made their way to the football pitches near St. Peter's, chatting about the game and what they were expecting. Jasper tried to play it cool, but inside, he was a bundle of nerves. Meeting a girl's family was always a big deal, and he didn't want to mess it up.

When they arrived at the football pitch, the sound of shouts and laughter filled the air. There were already a few families gathered around the sidelines, watching as the teams warmed up. Jasper scanned the field and quickly spotted Alessia. She was in the middle of the pitch, dribbling the ball with ease, her long hair tied back in a ponytail.

"There she is," Justin said, pointing her out.

Jasper smiled, his heart swelling with pride. "Yeah, that's my girl."

They found a spot on the sidelines and settled in to watch the game. The first half was intense, with both teams fighting hard for possession. Alessia was a force to be reckoned with, darting around the field with speed and precision. Jasper couldn't take his eyes off her, cheering her on every time she got near the ball.

Midway through the second half, Alessia's team was awarded a corner kick. The ball sailed through the air, and Alessia, who had positioned herself perfectly, leapt up and headed it straight into the goal. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Jasper jumped to his feet, shouting her name.

"She's amazing!" Casper exclaimed, clapping along with the crowd.

Justin nodded in agreement. "No wonder you like her so much."

As the game continued, Alessia scored another goal, sealing the victory for her team. When the final whistle blew, her teammates swarmed around her, congratulating her on a job well done. Jasper couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. She was incredible.

After the warm-down, Alessia spotted Jasper and his brothers on the sidelines and made a beeline for them. She was still slightly out of breath, her cheeks flushed from the exertion, but she was beaming.

Jasper stepped forward and pulled her into a tight hug. "You were amazing out there, Princess," he whispered in her ear before pulling back to give her a kiss. "Two goals? You're unstoppable."