By Your Side ✧⁠*⁠。

Episode 9

Perth rode Gemini's motorcycle ahead, guiding the way to the dorm building, while Santa traveled with his parents in his father Min’s car, with ploy sitting beside Min. Fourth traveled with his parents in his father Mek’s car, with his mother Moon seated beside Mek. The convoy moved smoothly, with Perth occasionally glancing behind to ensure everyone was following. After a short ride through the campus roads, they arrived at the dormitory. The tall building stood prominently among a row of campus facilities, with a large parking lot in front bustling with students and their families unloading luggage. 

Perth pulled into the motorcycle parking area and parked neatly, while Min maneuvered into a nearby car slot with Mek parking next to him. One by one, everyone exited their vehicles. Perth  running a hand through his hair as he approached Santa’s family. 

"It's kind of far if you two plan to walk from here to your classes," Perth said, gesturing to Santa and Fourth. "If you want, you can just ride with me in my car. You’re both in the same faculty, right?" 

Santa and Fourth exchanged smiles and nodded. 

"That won’t be a problem, then," Perth said with a grin. He turned to Min, who was unloading Santa’s luggage. "Uncle, let me carry that." 

Min hesitated for a moment. "Really? It’s heavy." 

Perth nodded. "No problem at all." He effortlessly picked up the suitcase, flashing a reassuring smile at Min and Ploy. 

Meanwhile, a senior standing outside the dorm building noticed Fourth and approached. "Hello! I’m Mark, a senior here," he said warmly to Fourth and his parents. "Let me help with your luggage." 

"Thank you, phi," Fourth said, handing over his suitcase. 

Mark led Fourth and his family upstairs to his assigned room, while Perth took Santa’s suitcase and guided him and his parents to his own dorm room. When they reached the designated door, Perth smiled and said, "Here it is." 

Santa retrieved his key and unlocked the door. As it swung open, they stepped into the neatly arranged room. The space was bright and spacious, with two single beds, two desks, one bathroom and two closets, leaving enough room for comfortable movement. 

Ploy glanced around and said, "Such a big room!" 

Perth nodded. "Yes, it’s big enough for two people." 

Min and Ploy shared a look before Min said, "Well, if there’s nothing else, your ma and I will head back now. Is that okay?" 

Santa turned to them with a smile. "It’s fine, Pa. Phi Perth is here to help me unpack." 

Perth nodded in agreement. "I’ll make sure everything’s settled, Uncle, Aunty." 

Ploy walked over and hugged Santa tightly. "Take care, alright? If you need anything, just call us." 

Min added, "Study hard, don’t just fool around." 

Santa smiled and nodded. "Alright,pa, ma." 

After saying their goodbyes and a final wave, Min and Ploy left the room, leaving Santa and Perth inside. 

Santa turned toward the door, his smile faltering slightly as he wiped away a tear that had escaped unnoticed. Perth stepped closer and gently wrapped his arms around him. "It’s okay, Ta. You can see them anytime—they’re not far away." 

Santa sniffled and nodded, his voice soft. "I know." 

Perth pulled back and gave him an encouraging smile. "Come on, let’s unpack." 

Santa picked up his suitcase and carried it to the closet. They worked together, organizing his clothes and belongings. As they sorted through the items, Perth said, "Tomorrow’s orientation, so make sure to wake up early, alright?"