Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 70

With both Jasper and Alessia entering pivotal years in their lives, there was a mix of excitement and anxiety. Alessia was heading into her third year at the University of North Carolina, her football dreams within reach, while Jasper was diving into his final year at Chichester, finishing up his football media course with an eye on future career opportunities. Though the distance between them still loomed, they both felt more confident than ever that they could handle it.

The evening of September 21 marked their six-year anniversary, and although they were oceans apart, they were determined to make the most of it. Jasper set up his room with fairy lights and ordered a nice dinner to set the mood for their video call. Alessia, meanwhile, sat by her laptop, holding a small gift she'd ordered to be delivered to Jasper earlier that day.

"Happy anniversary!" she greeted him as his face lit up on her screen.

"Happy anniversary, Alessia," he replied, smiling warmly. "I can't believe it's been six years. Time flies."

"Remember when we used to say six years sounded like forever?" she teased.

He laughed, nodding. "And now it feels like no time at all." He leaned closer to the screen. "Did you get the flowers I sent?"

Alessia grinned and held up a bouquet of lilies that Jasper had arranged to have delivered. "I love them. Thank you."

They spent the evening reminiscing, talking about their favourite memories and sharing their hopes for the coming year. Jasper held up a small bracelet he'd bought, with a photo of them from their Paris trip in the pendant. "I thought you could keep this with you as a reminder that I'm always here, even when I'm far away."

Alessia's eyes softened. "Thank you, Jasper. You know, no matter where we are, I always feel like you're with me."

Jasper's 21st birthday arrived with excitement and celebration. His friends from Chichester planned a small gathering, and his family had sent a package full of gifts and treats. Alessia, although not able to be there in person, made sure to be part of the festivities.

"Happy 21st, old man!" she teased as soon as he answered her video call, her face lighting up his screen.

"Old man, huh? Just wait till it's your turn!" he laughed, showing her the cake his friends had surprised him with.

Alessia smiled. "Open my gift now!"

He grabbed a carefully wrapped package from the pile, tearing off the paper to reveal a sleek, leather-bound photography portfolio. Inside, there was a personal note she'd written for him.

"It's for all the amazing work you're going to do," she said softly. "I believe in you, Jasper."

He looked down, touched. "Thank you, Alessia. This means so much to me."

The rest of the day was spent celebrating with friends, but that quiet moment with Alessia was the one that stayed with him.

For Christmas, both Jasper's and Alessia's families planned to spend the holidays together in Wales, making it the first Christmas they'd celebrated together since Alessia moved to America.

Jasper was overjoyed to be able to spend the holiday season with Alessia by his side, and the festive atmosphere at his grandparents' home in Wales was filled with laughter and joy.

On Christmas Eve, the families gathered in the cosy living room, with a roaring fire and twinkling lights illuminating the room. Jasper's grandmother was handing out cups of hot chocolate, and Jasper took a seat next to Alessia, their fingers intertwining as they settled in for a night of carols and stories.