Tipped To Be A Fine Little Gentleman

I work at a toy store, and, as you’d expect, I interact with a /lot/ of kids. I’m usually manning the register, and am usually a kid’s first “spending their own money” experience, so I tend to up my patience/friendliness just for these instances.  

One day, I check out a little boy who is around five or six. I had answered a boatload of questions for him while he shopped; once I gave him his change, he plucked out a quarter and slid it across the counter.

Boy: “And that… is for you.”

Me: “Oh, no, bud, this is your change! You get to keep it!”

He threw his hands up and stepped back from the counter.

Boy: “No, it’s yours! I’m tipping you! Mom, I’m tipping her!”

Mom shrugs apologetically at me.

Me: “Are you absolutely sure? You can put this towards your next visit.”

He started to walk towards the door and called back over his shoulder.

Boy: “You’re welcome!”

It was the best gumball of my career.