Dissent and Daffodils

The morning arrived all too soon. Lilith woke up groggily, unable to shake off the elusive sleep. She brewed herself a strong cup of coffee and dressed in a red shirt and white pants, pairing them with a white coat.

Driving through the empty streets, Lilith made her way to the university early. After parking her sports car in the lot, she walked to her office. Hazel's file remained on her desk. Lilith closed it and returned it to the shelf. She began working on today's class notes and brainstorming project topics for her students.

By the time the clock struck 8 a.m., Lilith headed to the cafeteria for another cup of coffee. Upon entering, she noticed Hazel sitting with her friends, deeply engaged in conversation. Lately, my reason for doom seems to follow me everywhere. Lilith thought. She ordered a black coffee and a croissant and chose a table near Hazel's, providing her with a perfect view of her.

Lilith subtly glanced at Hazel from time to time until their eyes met briefly. Flustered, she shifted her gaze to Professor Ambrose Whittaker, remembering her from the faculty profiles. Professor Whittaker was the History professor at Mountainridge, an elderly woman who had spent much of her youth conducting research and earning her Ph.D.

As Professor Whittaker ordered a cappuccino and made her way toward Lilith, she was greeted by Hazel and her friends. The professor took a seat in front of Lilith. "How are you doing, young lady?" she asked. Lilith grimaced at being referred to as "young lady" instead of "Professor." "I'm doing well, Professor Whittaker," she replied with a curt nod and a small smile.

"Our new professor is quite professional and formal, I must say," Professor Whittaker remarked with a warm smile. "By the way, we have a concert at the university tonight. Our students will be performing. I think you should come, Lilith," she added.

"Well, I have other plans tonight, but I'll see if I can join," Lilith responded kindly. Truthfully, she would prefer to spend the evening at home reading her mystery novel and enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir. However, she didn't want to disappoint Professor Whittaker.

"I must go now; I have a class in ten minutes. It was nice to see you, Professor Whittaker," Lilith said, rising to leave. "I hope to see you at the concert, Lilith," Professor Whittaker replied.

Lilith had only a few classes scheduled for the day, alongside preparations for the upcoming concert. After finishing one class and organizing her materials, a student approached her. "Professor Blackthorne, we have a concert tonight. It would be lovely if you could join us," the girl said nervously.

"Well, I really can't make it tonight, but I hope you all have a wonderful concert," Lilith said apologetically. The girl's expression fell at her words, but Lilith prioritized her peace of mind over attending the concert.