Gemotions

The chipped mug warmed Finn’s hands as he listened to Liam recount their epic quest for a specific brand of artisanal cheese. Liam was laying it on thick, gesturing dramatically, the details embellished to a point of absurdity. Finn chuckled, a rumble in his chest. Liam swore they'd faced down a rogue badger, nearly lost a limb, and somehow convinced a grumpy shopkeeper of the cheese's inherent value.

Finn took a long sip of his tea, the warmth spreading through him. He knew the true story. They'd been late, the shop was closing, and the cheese was on a heavily discounted shelf. The badger was a fluffy dog, the "shopkeeper" a bored teenager.

Liam paused, taking a breath. "And then," he declared, "I, single-handedly, saved the day!" Finn bit back a laugh. He knew he'd been the one to pay the three dollars.

He grinned and leaned back in his chair, watching Liam's performance. The exaggerated tale and the sincere belief in its truth were utterly delightful.