Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 44

It was a cool September morning when Jasper woke up with a heavy feeling in his chest. It was supposed to be a special day — September 21st, his third anniversary with Alessia. The past two years, they had always spent the day together, but this time was different. Alessia was thousands of miles away in Jordan, preparing for the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. He knew how important this tournament was for her, and though he understood, the absence felt strange.

"Morning, Jasper," Casper called from the kitchen as Jasper wandered in for breakfast. "How you holding up? Big day, right?"

Jasper sighed, pouring himself a cup of coffee. "Yeah, but it's weird, you know? Normally, we'd be doing something together. Now she's off in Jordan, and I'm here."

Casper gave him a sympathetic smile. "Well, you're a supportive boyfriend. She'll appreciate the fact you're not making a fuss."

Jasper leaned against the counter, a small grin creeping onto his face. Casper had no idea what he was planning. Alessia's parents and brothers had flown out the day before, and Jasper had managed to get time off college so he could surprise her. He would fly out to Jordan tomorrow morning, just in time for the first group stage match on October 1st, when England would face North Korea.

"I'll manage," Jasper replied, keeping his secret to himself for now. "You got plans for today?"

"Just school, then heading over to Justin's. He's helping me with something for my automotive class. What about you?"

"Not much," Jasper shrugged, trying to sound casual. "Might catch up on some work."

Casper narrowed his eyes suspiciously but didn't press any further.

The next morning, Jasper was on a flight to Jordan. His heart raced as he thought about how surprised Alessia would be. Her parents had promised not to tell her, making sure the moment he arrived would be special.

When the plane finally touched down in Amman, the excitement took over. After checking into his hotel, Jasper met up with Alessia's parents and brothers. Her mother, Carol, hugged him warmly, smiling.

"You're going to make her so happy," Carol said. "She's been working so hard, but I know she's missed you."

"I've missed her too," Jasper replied. "I just can't wait to see her face."

October 1st arrived, and the stands at the stadium buzzed with energy. Jasper stood beside Alessia's family, his heart pounding as he watched the England team warming up. Then, there she was — Alessia, wearing the number 9 jersey, running across the field with that fierce determination he loved so much. He hadn't seen her in weeks, and the sight of her on the field filled him with pride.

As the match against North Korea began, Jasper kept his eyes glued to her every move. The game was intense — a back-and-forth battle. In the 67th minute, with the score tied at 2-2, Alessia broke free from the defenders and slid the ball past the goalkeeper, scoring a crucial goal. Jasper leaped from his seat, shouting, "Yes! Go, Alessia!"

Her eyes scanned the stands, and when they landed on him, her expression transformed. Shock, then joy. She blew a kiss toward him, smiling widely, and Jasper felt like the luckiest guy in the world.

The game ended in a 3-3 draw, and after the final whistle blew, Jasper waited by the exit of the players' tunnel. Alessia appeared moments later, her face still flushed from the game. When she saw him, she ran straight into his arms.

"You're here!" she exclaimed, laughing through her tears. "You actually came!"

"I couldn't miss it," he said, holding her tight. "I'm so proud of you."