𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝓂𝓎 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒|𝐿𝑒𝒶𝒽 𝒲𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾𝒶𝓂𝓈𝑜𝓃

𝟧𝟨| 𝐿𝓊𝓀𝑒'𝓈 𝟤𝟩𝓉𝒽 𝐵𝒾𝓇𝓉𝒽𝒹𝒶𝓎

lucas pov 

Before the festivities of my 27th birthday party kicked off, Leah and I decided to steal a few moments for ourselves. We escaped the hustle and bustle of party preparations and headed out for a leisurely lunch followed by a bit of shopping—a rare treat amidst our busy schedules.

As we sat across from each other at our favourite café, savouring the simple pleasure of good food and even better company, I couldn't help but marvel at how lucky I was to have Leah by my side. She had a way of infusing even the most ordinary moments with an air of magic, and today was no exception.

Over sandwiches and cups of steaming coffee, we talked and laughed, revealing in the anticipation of the evening's festivities. Leah's infectious laughter filled the air, and I found myself falling in love with her all over again as we shared stories and made plans for the future.

After lunch, we strolled hand in hand through the bustling streets, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. Leah's eyes lit up with excitement as we passed by shop windows adorned with colourful displays, and I couldn't resist indulging her with a bit of retail therapy.

We wandered through the aisles of our favourite boutique, selecting outfits for the evening's celebration and exchanging playful banter along the way. Leah tried on a few dresses, twirling in front of the mirror with a grin, and I couldn't help but admire the way she lit up the room with her infectious energy.

As we made our purchases and headed back home, arms laden with bags filled with goodies, I couldn't shake the feeling of contentment that settled over me. Today wasn't just about celebrating another year of my life—it was about cherishing the moments spent with the woman I loved, making memories that would last a lifetime.

And as we returned home, ready to kick off the festivities surrounded by our nearest and dearest, I knew that no matter what the future held, I would always treasure these simple moments of joy and connection with Leah by my side.

Turning 27 wasn't exactly a milestone I had circled on my calendar, but my partner Leah had other plans. She'd organised a birthday bash at our place, inviting both our families, as well as some of my mates from Chelsea and the England squad, and her teammates from Arsenal and the national team. Our house was buzzing with excitement as guests arrived, filling the rooms with laughter and chatter.

Leah was the perfect host, making sure everyone felt welcome and entertained. Meanwhile, I found myself at the centre of attention, receiving well-wishes and toasts from friends and family alike. But amidst the revelry, Leah had a surprise in store for me. Amidst the bustling atmosphere, I found myself catching up with Alessia, Mary, and Ella, some of my closest friends who had made it to the party. We exchanged hugs and greetings, laughter filling the air as we reminisced about old times and shared stories from our recent adventures.

"So, Luke, how does it feel to be another year older?" Alessia teased, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she sipped on her drink.

I chuckled, shaking my head in mock exasperation. "Honestly, I'm not sure I feel any different," I admitted with a grin. "But with friends like you lot around, I know it's going to be a memorable year."

Mary, always the life of the party, chimed in with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Well, you know what they say, Luke – age is just a number," she quipped, raising her glass in a toast. "Here's to never growing up!"

We all laughed, the sound mingling with the music and chatter of the party around us. It was moments like these, surrounded by the people who knew me best, that made birthdays feel truly special.

"Alright, everyone, can I have your attention, please?" Leah called out, her voice cutting through the noise. "It's time for the birthday boy to say a few words."