Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 56

Jasper straightened the collar of his shirt as he looked in the mirror, feeling a mixture of excitement and unease about the night. It was New Year's Eve, and his family was getting ready to go to a party at his mum's friend's house. In his mind, he ran over the plans for the night and the day that would follow—he'd be taking Alessia to the airport tomorrow, and it was going to be a hard goodbye. Picking up his phone, he texted her before they left.

Jasper: Hey, what time do you want me to pick you up tomorrow?

A few seconds later, his phone buzzed with her reply.

Alessia: Hey! Around 11 would be perfect. Gives me time to finish packing.

Jasper: Got it. It'll be hard seeing you off, but I'm glad we got this time together. Also... Happy almost New Year, Alessia!

Alessia: Happy New Year, Jasper! Can't wait to see you tomorrow. Love you!

Feeling a sense of comfort after hearing from her, Jasper slipped his phone into his pocket and headed downstairs, where his parents and Casper were waiting. The family bundled up against the cold and made their way to the car, anticipation buzzing in the air as they drove to the party.

When they arrived at the cosy house, warm lights spilled out of the windows, and they could hear laughter and music from inside. Jasper's mum's friends greeted them at the door with hugs, and he could feel the familiar warmth that came with family friends who'd been in their lives for years.

Casper nudged Jasper as they hung up their coats. "Excited for the party, or just counting down until midnight so you can text Alessia again?" he teased with a smirk.

Jasper rolled his eyes. "Both, I guess. But I can enjoy the party, don't worry."

Inside, the party was alive with chatter, music, and the clinking of glasses. Jasper's parents quickly mingled with old friends, and he and Casper found themselves caught up in conversation with friends of friends. As midnight approached, he noticed his phone vibrating in his pocket.

Alessia: Happy New Year, Jasper! Wishing you were here to celebrate.

Smiling, he quickly typed back.

Jasper: Happy New Year, Alessia! 2018 will be even better, I know it.

The clock struck midnight, and everyone in the room raised their glasses in a toast, cheers filling the space. People hugged, laughed, and welcomed the new year with open arms. Jasper's family exchanged hugs, and he watched as his parents beamed with joy. As the night wound down, they all began saying their goodbyes, thanking the hosts and heading back home.

The next morning, Jasper awoke feeling a mix of emotions—today was the day he'd take Alessia to the airport. After showering and getting dressed, he grabbed a quick breakfast before driving over to her house. As he pulled up to her driveway, he saw her standing on the steps with her bags. She smiled when she saw him, though her eyes were tinged with the sadness of the upcoming goodbye.

"Hey," she greeted, coming over to give him a quick hug.

"Hey, ready to go?" he asked, trying to keep things light even as his heart sank at the thought of her leaving.

"Ready as I'll ever be," she replied with a small laugh, settling into the passenger seat as he loaded her bags into the car.

The drive to the airport was filled with their usual banter, though there was an unspoken heaviness hanging in the air. Jasper reached over and took her hand, giving it a comforting squeeze as they neared the airport.

Pulling into the parking lot, he shut off the car and looked over at her. "Before we go in..." he started, taking a breath, "I just want you to know that I'll keep my promise. I'm going to keep my partying and drinking to a minimum—and I won't do anything to break your trust."

Alessia's face softened as she leaned over, cupping his face in her hands. "I know, Jasper. I trust you. We'll make this work," she whispered before their lips met in a soft, lingering kiss. It was a reassurance, a reminder, and a promise all at once.

They made their way into the bustling airport, Jasper carrying her bags as they navigated the crowded terminal. After checking her bags, they walked slowly towards the security line, both of them knowing they were nearing the moment of goodbye.

Alessia stopped just before they reached the entrance to security, turning to face him. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, and Jasper felt his own heart twist as he fought to keep his emotions in check.

"Message me when you get back to campus, okay?" he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

"I will," she promised, wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug. "And remember, I'll be home for the summer."

They stayed like that for a moment, holding each other as though it would make the goodbye easier. But eventually, she pulled back, wiping a tear from her cheek.

"Goodbye, Jasper. I'll miss you," she whispered, giving him one last kiss before stepping into the line.

He watched as she moved through security, waving one last time before disappearing around the corner. With a deep sigh, Jasper turned and left the airport, feeling the weight of the distance that was about to separate them.

Back at home, Jasper packed up his things for his return to university, though his mind kept drifting back to Alessia. His family kept him company throughout the evening, sharing dinner and conversation, their warmth a welcome distraction. Halfway through dinner, his phone buzzed with a message from Alessia.

Alessia: Landed safely! I'm back on campus and catching up with Lotte. I'll text you more later. Love you!

He grinned, relief flooding over him as he read her message.

Jasper: Glad you made it back safely. Love you too, can't wait to hear all about it later.

As he tucked his phone away, his mum glanced over with a smile. "Alessia made it back okay?"

Jasper nodded. "Yeah, she's back on campus with her friends."

Casper leaned back in his chair, smirking. "Bet you're already planning the next trip over to see her."

Jasper chuckled, shaking his head. "Maybe. Gotta survive this semester first, though."

His dad laughed. "We'll be here to remind you to study if you need it."

The rest of the evening passed comfortably, with Jasper feeling more at ease knowing Alessia was safe. He was ready to dive into his last few days at home, appreciating every moment with his family before heading back to university and reuniting with his friends.