Forbidden Love✧⁠*⁠。

Episode 10

It had been a few days since Becky and Santa started sneaking out from the castle to meet Freen and Perth. Each day they spent together, their laughter by the lake, and the quiet moments they shared only made their feelings grow stronger. They were no longer just fleeting encounters but cherished moments they each looked forward to. There was an undeniable connection between them, something that made each goodbye feel harder, and each hello more precious.

Today, the sky was clear, and the lake’s surface sparkled under the bright sun. Perth and Santa wandered along the water’s edge, exchanging stories and jokes, laughter echoing across the lake. Perth couldn’t help but smile at the sight of Santa’s joy, his laughter so free and genuine. The two walked slowly, side by side, until something caught Perth’s eye near the edge of the water.

"Wow," Perth said, bending down to pick up a stone resting on the shore. It was smooth and polished by the water, with a soft pink hue and faint streaks of glimmering white across it. The stone was small but seemed special, as if it had been placed there just for them to find.

Santa leaned closer to get a better look. "It's really beautiful," he said softly, admiring the delicate colors that almost reminded him of the morning sky.

Perth turned to Santa, smiling as he placed the stone carefully into Santa’s hand. "Here," he said gently, "I want you to have it."

Santa looked up, a bit surprised, feeling the warmth of the stone in his palm. "Why are you giving it to me?" he asked, his voice filled with a quiet wonder.

Perth’s smile grew softer. "Think of it as my gift," he said, his tone sincere. "I don’t have anything expensive to give you, but this beautiful stone—it felt right. Whenever you miss me, you can look at it."

Santa’s cheeks warmed, and he looked down, trying to hide the blush that crept across his face. "T-Thank you," he stammered, suddenly feeling shy. He glanced back at Perth, who was watching him with a fond smile.

"You look cute when you blush," Perth said, his voice teasing but warm.

Santa’s blush deepened, and he huffed, his voice wavering. "S-shut up," he mumbled, though his lips held a small smile.

Perth chuckled softly, his hand moving to gently caress Santa’s cheek. The simple touch was enough to send a rush of warmth through Santa, his heart beating a little faster. "You know," Perth said quietly, "I’m really glad we could meet."

Santa’s eyes softened, and he nodded. "Yeah… I wouldn’t be able to sneak out like this if my parents were around. But they’re away from the castle for now, so I’ve got the freedom." He paused, a hint of sadness flickering in his eyes. "But if they come back… don’t get your hopes up too much."

Perth nodded thoughtfully, understanding. "Then, how will I know if you’re coming?" he asked softly.

Santa bit his lip, looking away as he thought. "I… I don’t know," he murmured, the uncertainty clear in his voice.

Perth’s eyes sparkled with determination as he looked back at Santa. "Then I’ll just come here every day and wait for you," he said with a quiet confidence. "If you don’t come, I’ll know you couldn’t make it."

Santa looked at him, surprised. "Won’t it be tiring to come here every day, just to see if my sister and I show up?"

Perth shook his head, his smile unwavering. "Honestly? It’s not tiring at all. It’s exciting," he said, his gaze full of sincerity. "And I’d gladly do it if it means there’s even a small chance of seeing you."

Santa’s heart skipped a beat, and he couldn’t help the smile that tugged at his lips. The thought of Perth coming to the lake just to see him warmed his heart in a way he hadn’t expected. "Thank you," he whispered, and Perth gave him a soft smile in return.