Unexpected Love *⁠.⁠✧

Episode 16

Perth stares at his reflection in the mirror, adjusting his hair for what feels like the tenth time. His mind races. It’s just a date... it’s fine... but is it really just a date? What if I mess it up? He checks his outfit once more, something casual yet put together, and exhales deeply, glancing at the clock. I just need to act normal. I’ve done this before... but why does this feel different?

Meanwhile, Santa is pacing in his dorm room, switching between sitting and standing, trying to calm his racing thoughts. Why did phi Perth ask me on a date? Is this real or is he just messing with me? He sighs, pulling out a few different shirts before settling on something simple. His phone buzzes with a message from Yatch, teasing him about the date, which only makes him more anxious.

As they meet up at the agreed spot outside the university, both try to act casual. Perth gives a small smile, "You ready?" he asks, trying not to show how nervous he feels. Santa nods, “Yeah... I guess."

They decide to start the date with a walk in a nearby park, filled with the soft sounds of rustling leaves and the quiet chatter of other people around. At first, it’s a little awkward, neither quite sure what to say, but slowly, the conversation eases. Perth watches Santa, noticing small details he hadn’t really paid attention to before—how Santa’s eyes light up when he talks about dancing or how he tilts his head slightly when he’s thinking.

As they walk, their hands brush occasionally, and each time, there’s a moment of silence that follows. Perth feels his heart race but tries to keep things light. "You know, it’s strange seeing you without any orders," Perth jokes, trying to break the tension, but immediately regrets it when Santa’s expression falters slightly.

"I guess... I’m just so used to it by now," Santa replies softly, looking down.

Perth bites his lip. Damn it, I didn’t mean it like that. He stops walking for a moment, grabbing Santa’s wrist gently. "Hey... I didn’t mean it like that. Today... this is different, okay?"

Santa looks up at him, surprised by the sincerity in Perth’s eyes. "Okay," he says, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

As they continue their walk, they come across a cozy café and decide to stop in for lunch. Inside, they take a seat by the window, where they’re soon joined by none other than Aou and Boom, who happen to walk in after them. Aou immediately notices Perth and Santa sitting together, his eyes widening. He smirks as he nudges Boom, "Looks like we're not the only one who decided to choose this cafè."

Boom, flustered, tries to brush it off. "Yeah, looks like it... they're so cute together, don't you think so, phi?" But Aou just laughs, "yeah, you're right just like us right, Boom?" Boom blushes, turning his gaze away, while Aou wraps an arm around his shoulder, leaning in. "Let's ignore them and just enjoy our date, alright ?" Boom then nodded and follow Aou to their table

Back at Perth and Santa’s table, they notice the playful exchange between Aou and Boom. Perth gives a small chuckle, "Looks like we’re not the only ones having a date here today."

Santa blushes, shifting in his seat. "I wouldn’t really call this a date..." he mumbles, unsure of how to label what’s happening.

Perth tilts his head, "And why not? I asked you, didn’t I?"

Santa glances at him, his heart skipping a beat. "Yeah, but... why? You’ve never done this before."

Perth hesitates for a moment, trying to find the right words. "Because... I think I need to figure out something." He looks away, trying to calm the nervousness building up inside. "And I think it has to do with you."

Santa blinks, surprised. Before he can respond, Perth continues, "Let’s just... enjoy today, okay?" He reaches across the table and grabs Santa’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. Santa looks down at their hands, feeling the warmth of Perth’s touch and nods, a soft smile on his lips.