Unexpected Love *⁠.⁠✧

Episode 13

As the days passed, the time had finally come for Perth to visit his parents. This time, he wasn’t going alone. He had invited Santa to join him, hoping to share the celebration of their test results. Driving along the familiar road, Perth glanced over at Santa, who was scrolling through his phone in the passenger seat.

"We’re almost there, Ta," Perth said with a small smile, his eyes flicking between the road and Santa.

Santa looked up, nodding. "I’m sorry, phi. I feel like I’m intruding. You should be celebrating with your family, and here I am, tagging along."

Perth shook his head gently. "Don’t worry about it. The more, the merrier. I bet my parents will love having some extra company."

A few minutes later, they pulled into the driveway of a modern, stylish home. The house was framed by a beautiful garden, with pots of vibrant flowers lining the walkway, their colors popping against the sleek, contemporary design of the building. It had a warm yet elegant feel, with large windows and a carefully landscaped lawn that gave it an inviting charm.

As Perth parked the car, Santa noticed a couple standing near the entrance. Perth’s parents were there, waiting with bright, excited smiles on their faces. His mother waved enthusiastically, her eyes lighting up as soon as she saw her son, while his father stood proudly beside her, a soft look of pride on his face.

As soon as Perth parked the car, he stepped out and made his way toward his parents. His mother quickly closed the distance between them, pulling him into a warm, tight hug.

Perth smiled, hugging her back. "I missed you too, Mom. I’m doing great."

As Perth pulled back from his mother’s embrace, his father stepped forward with a broad smile. Without hesitation, he wrapped his arms around Perth, giving him a firm but affectionate hug.

"I’ve missed you too, son," his father said, patting Perth on the back. "It’s been too long since we had you home. How’s everything been?"

Perth chuckled softly, enjoying the warmth of the moment. "Everything’s been good, Dad. It’s great to be back."

Perth, still smiling from the embrace, glanced over his shoulder at Santa, who stood a little awkwardly by the car. He gestured for Santa to come closer.

"Oh, let me introduce you guys..." Perth started, "This is Santa… he’s my—"

Before he could finish his sentence, his mother interrupted with a teasing grin, eyes lighting up. "Is he your boyfriend, Perth? Oh my, how come you have such a beautiful boyfriend?"

Santa’s face turned bright red as he quickly shook his head, waving his hands in denial. "Oh no, I’m not his boyfriend," he said, flustered. "I’m phi Perth’s junior, just here to celebrate."

Perth's father chuckled softly at the scene, while his mother raised an eyebrow with a knowing smile.

Perth couldn’t resist teasing his mom, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "So, Mom, do you really think Santa looks good with me?"

His mother glanced between the two of them, a playful smile spreading across her face. "Santa does look beautiful, but compared to you, son…" She gave Perth a mock serious look. "Santa looks like an angel, and you—well, you look more like a devil!"

Everyone burst into laughter at the comment, even Santa, whose face still held a faint blush from the earlier misunderstanding. Perth's father patted his son’s back, shaking his head in amusement.

Perth’s dad smiled warmly at Santa and extended his hand. "It’s good to meet you, Santa. Welcome to our home."

Santa shook his hand, returning the smile. "Thank you, sir. It’s a pleasure to be here."