Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 29

Saturday morning arrived with a crisp chill in the air, but the sun was shining brightly, reflecting the excitement Jasper felt. Today was the first time in weeks he would get to see Alessia play football, something he had dearly missed during the long, gruelling days of exams. Despite his crutches and the cast, he was determined not to miss her match.

Kirsty helped Jasper into the car, carefully arranging his crutches in the back seat.

"You sure you're up for this?" she asked, a hint of concern in her voice.

Jasper grinned. "Mum, I've missed three weeks of watching her play. I'm not missing this one."

Kirsty smiled at her son's determination and drove him to the football field, where the game was about to start. When they arrived, Alessia was already warming up with her team, looking sharp and focused. She spotted Jasper from the sidelines and flashed him a bright smile, waving excitedly.

"Good luck, Lessi!" Jasper shouted, giving her a thumbs-up.

He found a spot near the stands and settled in, watching as the game kicked off. Alessia was in top form, commanding the field with confidence and precision. Jasper couldn't help but feel proud as he watched her move effortlessly, scoring goals and setting up plays. Even with his leg in a cast, the excitement of the match was enough to distract him from the discomfort.

During halftime, Alessia jogged over to him, slightly breathless but grinning.

"How am I doing?" she asked, her face flushed with excitement.

"Brilliant, as always," Jasper said, giving her a soft smile. "You're killing it out there."

Alessia laughed and leaned down to give him a quick peck on the cheek. "Glad you're here."

The second half of the game flew by, and when the final whistle blew, Alessia's team had won by a comfortable margin. She ran over to Jasper as soon as the game ended, still buzzing with energy.

"Want to come back to mine?" Alessia asked, wiping the sweat off her brow. "We haven't spent time together in forever."

Jasper didn't hesitate. "Yeah, I'd love to."

They arrived at Alessia's house a short while later, where they were greeted by her older brother Giorgio lounging in the living room. As soon as he saw Jasper hobbling in on his crutches, Giorgio's face lit up with a mischievous grin.

"Hey, look! It's the peg-legged pirate!" Giorgio teased, making exaggerated hopping motions.

Jasper rolled his eyes but chuckled. "Yeah, yeah, laugh it up, mate."

"Giorgio!" Carol, Alessia's mother, appeared from the kitchen, giving her son a stern look. "Don't tease him. Jasper's had a rough few weeks."

"Sorry, sorry," Giorgio muttered, though there was still a smirk on his face.

Alessia shot her brother a look before turning to Jasper. "Come on, let's get you upstairs before you fall over thanks to my idiot brother."

Jasper laughed and let Alessia guide him up the stairs, one step at a time. It wasn't the fastest process, but she was patient, keeping her hand on his arm for support.

When they finally reached her room, Alessia let out a sigh. "I'm going to take a quick shower. You good here?"

Jasper nodded. "Yeah, take your time. I'll just... exist."

Alessia laughed and grabbed some clothes before disappearing into the bathroom. Jasper made himself comfortable on her bed, glancing around her room. A few minutes later, Alessia reappeared, her hair damp and dressed in fresh clothes. She sat down on the bed next to him and smiled. "Feel better now."