The snow fell steadily outside, blanketing the world in a quiet hush. The streetlights cast golden halos onto the icy sidewalks, but inside Michael’s cozy kitchen, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The scent of citrus and spices filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of wood smoke from the living room fireplace. Michael stood at the counter, his collection of spirits and tools spread before him, while his friend Daniel leaned against the doorway, cradling a mug of tea.

"You’ve got quite the setup here," Daniel remarked, nodding toward the bottles of brandy, bourbon, and other liqueurs lined up in neat rows.

Michael grinned. "Well, if you’re going to do something, you might as well do it right. Especially on a night like this."

"What’s the plan, then? Hot toddy? Mulled wine?"

"Not tonight," Michael said, reaching for the brandy. "Tonight, you’re getting a ‘Cock N’ Bull Special.’ It’s one of my favorites for cold winter evenings."

Daniel raised an eyebrow. "Never heard of it. What’s in it?"

"It’s a blend of brandy, Benedictine, bourbon, and triple sec," Michael explained as he measured out the brandy. "Rich, smooth, and just a little bit zesty from the orange liqueur. Trust me, it’s exactly what you need to shake off the winter chill."

"You make it sound like poetry," Daniel teased, but his curiosity was piqued.

Michael laughed, pouring the brandy into a mixing glass filled with ice before adding the bourbon and Benedictine. The golden-brown liquids shimmered as they mingled. Next came the triple sec, its bright, citrusy aroma cutting through the heavier scents. Michael picked up a long bar spoon and began stirring, the ice clinking gently against the glass in a soothing rhythm.

"The key is to stir just long enough to chill and dilute it slightly," Michael said, his movements steady and precise. "It’s all about balance—just like life, really."

Daniel chuckled. "You always did have a knack for finding metaphors in everything."

"It’s part of the charm," Michael replied with a wink. He grabbed a chilled coupe glass from the freezer, its frosted surface a stark contrast to the warmth of the room. With a practiced hand, he strained the deep amber cocktail into the glass, the liquid settling smoothly.

Michael then reached for an orange, slicing off a thin twist of peel. He held it over the glass, giving it a quick twist to release the oils before dropping it delicately onto the surface of the drink.

"Here you go," Michael said, presenting the cocktail with a flourish. "The Cock N’ Bull Special."

Daniel took the glass, the coupe fitting perfectly in his hand. He raised it to his nose, inhaling the complex blend of aromas before taking a sip. His eyes widened in appreciation.

"Wow," he said after a moment. "That’s incredible. It’s rich and warming, but the orange gives it this bright, lively kick. You weren’t kidding about it being perfect for winter."

Michael smiled, pouring a second drink for himself. "Told you. Sometimes, all you need is the right cocktail to make the cold feel a little less biting."

The two friends carried their drinks to the living room, settling into armchairs by the fire. The flames danced and crackled, casting a warm glow over the room.

"To good drinks and good company," Daniel said, raising his glass in a toast.

"I’ll drink to that," Michael replied, clinking his glass against Daniel’s.

As they sipped their Cock N’ Bull Specials and shared stories, the snow outside continued to fall, but the warmth of the evening made the winter night feel miles away.