Tom Cruise, the beloved Top Gun star, has been smitten by the sultry Latin artist Shakira, with insiders hinting at potential wedding bells despite their budding relationship being in its early stages.

Sparks flew between the duo during the Miami Grand Prix on May 7. Insiders claim that the 60-year-old actor, known for his high-profile short-term romances, is yearning for a long-term partnership. Cruise, father to three children from his previous marriages with Nicole Kidman and Katie Holmes, is eager to start a new family chapter, according to sources.

However, Shakira, 46, is reportedly approaching this relationship with more caution, keen to avoid a rebound romance. Last year, she was left heartbroken by her former partner, footballer Gerard Piqué, who is the father of her children, Milan, 10, and Sasha, 8. Piqué has since moved on with 24-year-old Clara Chia Martí, which was a painful betrayal for Shakira.

The "Hips Don't Lie" singer is focusing on self-discovery, suggesting that her happiness may not necessarily depend on a man. She has been quoted saying that she is in a phase where "the search for the other is replaced by the search for oneself".

Despite this, Cruise, who is currently riding the wave of success following the box-office hit "Top Gun: Maverick", which grossed a staggering $1.5 billion, seems undeterred by Shakira's hesitations. He is unready to accept a refusal, according to an insider.

The source reveals, "Tom has fallen hard and fast for Shakira. He's pursuing this romance with full force." Cruise's friends are well aware that he has been searching worldwide for his next life partner. Shakira, in his eyes, embodies all the qualities he seeks in a potential partner and mother to his future children - intelligence, culture, talent, and undeniable attractiveness.

"Shakira is understandably hesitant to rush into anything too intense right now due to the emotional toll her past relationship with Gerard took on her," the insider added, "She prefers to take things slowly rather than dive in headfirst."

However, Cruise is known for his relentless pursuit and determination, and it appears he's applying these traits to his romance with Shakira. According to sources, he isn't willing to take no for an answer.