Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 24

When Jasper woke up the next morning, sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. His leg was still propped up, immobilised by the heavy cast that now defined his movements. He glanced to his side and saw Alessia, curled up next to him, still fast asleep. The events of the previous day played in his mind—his injury, the hospital visit, and how Alessia had stayed by his side through it all.

Carefully, Jasper shifted in bed, trying not to disturb her, but the movement caused a slight creak in the mattress, and Alessia stirred. She blinked her eyes open, stretching out her arms before offering him a sleepy smile.

"Good morning," she said softly, her voice laced with grogginess.

"Morning," Jasper replied, managing a grin. "Did you sleep okay?"

"Yeah," Alessia responded, sitting up. "I was worried about you, though. How are you feeling?"

Jasper shrugged, his leg reminding him of its presence. "Sore, but better than yesterday."

Alessia reached out and gently touched his arm. "That's a good sign. But now, I need to get some breakfast. I've got my match soon, and I need all the energy I can get."

Jasper watched as she stood up, stretching her arms and legs to shake off the sleep. "Want some help?" he offered, even though he knew he couldn't do much.

Alessia laughed lightly. "You stay here and rest that leg. I'll go up and whip up something quick."

Despite his leg, Jasper insisted on following her upstairs. He grabbed his crutches, and with some effort, made his way to the kitchen. Alessia shot him a look of amusement but didn't stop him.

"I can't just lie around all day," Jasper muttered, making his way to the kitchen table.

Alessia chuckled as she started gathering ingredients for breakfast. "You should be resting. But I get it—you hate missing out on anything."

As Alessia busied herself in the kitchen, cracking eggs and slicing bread for toast, Jasper leaned back in his chair. He loved watching her work with such ease, her movements fluid and purposeful. In a few minutes, she had scrambled eggs, toast, and some fruit ready to go.

"There we go. Fuel for the big match," Alessia said, placing the plates on the table.

"Smells amazing," Jasper said, digging in. "You sure you don't want to be a chef instead of a football player?"

Alessia rolled her eyes playfully. "Nah, I think I'll stick with football for now."

As they ate, Jasper felt a wave of nervousness wash over him. He had never missed one of Alessia's matches before. The thought of staying home, injured and unable to cheer her on from the sidelines, made him anxious. He finished his food, then looked at Alessia with a serious expression.

"Hey, I need to ask my parents something," Jasper said suddenly.

Alessia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What is it?"

"I want to come to your match," Jasper blurted out, his voice pleading. "I know I'm in this stupid cast, but I've never missed one of your games. Please, let me go."

Alessia's eyes softened. "Jasper, you need to rest. I don't want you pushing yourself just to watch my game. It's okay if you miss this one."

"But it's not okay for me," Jasper insisted, determination in his voice. "I want to be there for you, just like you were there for me yesterday."

Alessia opened her mouth to argue, but before she could respond, Jasper's parents walked into the kitchen, sensing the seriousness of the conversation.

"Everything okay here?" his mom asked, glancing between the two.