Hs - Cream Dreams - — Seth Peterson, Derek Shaw

When the server finally handed over Seth’s towering mocha sundae and Derek’s minimalist scoop of sea salt caramel, they retreated to their usual booth in the back. For a moment, the noise of the shop faded.

"I’m telling you, Peterson," Derek said, nodding toward the menu board. "The 'Midnight Mocha' is a trap. It’s too much for a Monday." HS - Cream Dreams - Seth Peterson, Derek Shaw

(e.g., a rival school, a personal injury, a secret) When the server finally handed over Seth’s towering

To help me tailor the next part of Seth and Derek's journey: "The 'Midnight Mocha' is a trap

Seth laughed, a deep sound that drew glances from a group of freshmen in the corner. "It’s a classic, Shaw. You can’t go wrong with the classics. Besides, we just finished two-a-days. I think I’ve earned the extra fudge."

They sat there until the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the interior of Cream Dreams in hues of gold and orange. It was a simple tradition—two friends, a couple of plastic spoons, and the weight of an upcoming season—but in that small shop, under the hum of the freezer units, everything felt exactly as it should be.