Dissent and Daffodils

Hazel and Lilith left for the new café, with Hazel heading out first. Lilith then drove her car to the café, entering from the cold outside. Winter was approaching quickly. The café featured warm lighting, soft music playing in the background, and the comforting sounds of the coffee machine. Although it wasn't an upscale establishment, it served as a cozy spot for writers, students, and professionals. At the moment, the café was quite empty.

Hazel had already seated herself in the most secluded corner, away from the door, after placing their orders.

"So, what did you order for me?" Lilith asked, removing her coat and draping it over the back of her chair.

"I got a hot chocolate for myself and an Americano for you, Professor," Hazel replied cheerfully, resting her elbow on the table and rubbing the back of her neck. Lilith rested her chin on her intertwined fingers while staring at Hazel with a playful smile.

"So, Ms. Ashford, how's your classes going?" Lilith inquired.

Hazel rolled her eyes. "Oh god, not with the 'Ms. Ashford' thing again," she said, then added, "Classes are going great, Professor. Why do you ask?"

"Your grades could be impacted if you don't do well on the upcoming math exams," Lilith replied, showing concern. Hazel appeared slightly upset at the mention of grades. "But if you'd like, I can tutor you after lectures in my office. You really need to improve for the next tests," Lilith offered.

Just then, the barista called out their names for their orders. Lilith went to pick them up and paid. "Here you go," she said, handing the hot chocolate to Hazel. Hazel wrapped her cold fingers around the warm cup.

"I'll take extra classes after lectures," Hazel stated. Lilith lightly touched Hazel's hand as Hazel took a sip of her hot chocolate.

They chatted about various aspects of their lives for a while. Suddenly, Hazel's phone pinged on the table, and a message appeared. "What is it?" Lilith asked, noticing Hazel's eyebrows furrowing.

"My friends are planning an outing. They couldn't find me on campus, so they texted me," Hazel explained as she typed a response.

"You should go, then," Lilith suggested.

"I don't want to," Hazel replied, looking up with a pleading expression. Lilith laughed gently and said, "You should. Socializing is important."

"Fine. If you say so," Hazel said, typing a quick reply.

"Okay, finish your hot chocolate, and I'll drop you back at the dormitory," Lilith said while standing up to bring her car around. Hazel nodded in agreement.

Lilith drove them back to the university. "Stop at the gate. I'll walk from there, or my friends will find out about us," Hazel said.

Lilith parked the car at the front gate. "I enjoyed spending time with you. I'm sorry for leaving so soon," Hazel said, squeezing Lilith's hand.

"Enjoy your evening. And don't worry, we'll meet again tomorrow after lectures," Lilith replied, squeezing Hazel's hand in return.