Crossing Hearts- A Maidstone Love Story

Chapter 73

The remainder of May brought the warmth of late spring, but for Jasper and Alessia, it was also a chance to settle into a more routine rhythm of life after a whirlwind year. With the football season winding down and Jasper's photography work becoming slightly less hectic, the couple embraced every opportunity to spend quality time together.

One Sunday morning, Jasper woke up to find Alessia sitting cross-legged on the living room floor, surrounded by half-assembled IKEA furniture. She looked up at him, screwdriver in hand, her blonde hair tied messily atop her head.

"You were supposed to help me with this, Jas," she said, feigning a pout.

Jasper chuckled, rubbing his eyes. "I don't remember agreeing to DIY torture on a Sunday morning."

"Well, you don't have a choice now. Grab that box."

He sighed dramatically but sat down next to her. "What even is this?"

"A bookshelf for your photography books," Alessia replied, smiling. "You always complain about not having enough space."

Jasper softened, leaning over to kiss her temple. "You're the best, you know that?"

She grinned. "I know. Now get to work."

A week later, Jasper found himself roped into an impromptu karaoke night with the Arsenal women. It was Leah Williamson's idea, and it didn't take much convincing for Alessia to drag Jasper along.

As they entered Leah's flat, the sound of Katie McCabe belting out an off-key rendition of "I Want It That Way" echoed through the room.

"Jasper!" Katie called out, waving a microphone. "You're up next, mate!"

"Oh no, I'm just here to spectate," Jasper said quickly, holding up his hands.

"Nope," Alessia said, grabbing his arm. "You're singing with me."

Jasper groaned as Alessia shoved a microphone into his hand. The opening notes of "Shallow" from A Star Is Born began to play, and the room erupted in cheers.

Despite his initial reluctance, Jasper couldn't help but get into it. By the time they hit the chorus, Alessia was laughing so hard she could barely sing.

"I think we nailed it," Jasper said as they finished, handing the microphone back to Katie.

Leah smirked. "Sure, if by 'nailed it,' you mean gave us a reason why Alessia should stick to football."

To celebrate the end of Alessia's first season with Arsenal, Jasper planned a surprise weekend getaway to the Cotswolds.

"Where are we going?" Alessia asked as they loaded their bags into the car.

"You'll see," Jasper replied with a sly smile.

Three hours later, they arrived at a cosy cottage surrounded by rolling green hills and wildflowers. Alessia's eyes lit up.

"This is beautiful, Jas!"

"I thought you could use a break from the city," he said, wrapping his arms around her from behind.

Over the weekend, they went on long walks, explored quaint villages, and spent evenings curled up by the fireplace. One night, as they sat outside under the stars, Jasper turned to Alessia.

"You know, these past ten years with you have been the best of my life," he said softly.

Alessia smiled, leaning her head against his shoulder. "Same here, Jas. I wouldn't trade it for anything."

The night before, Jasper and Alessia were lounging on the couch, scrolling through Netflix in search of something to watch.

"I can't believe the summer's flying by so fast," Alessia said.