One rainy night, Bert sat on his couch, reading a book with his usual concentration. The sound of raindrops tapping against the window filled the apartment as a soft lamp cast a warm glow over his focused face.

Ernie, playful as always, appeared behind him with a soft blanket. Without saying anything, he placed it gently on Bert's shoulders and sat next to him, resting his head comfortably on his shoulder. The faint scent of Ernie's citrus shampoo mixed with the damp night air seeping through the windows.

"What are you doing, Ernie?" Bert asked without taking his eyes off the book, though the corners of his mouth turned up slightly.

"Nothing, I just like being here with you," Ernie responded, intertwining his fingers with Bert's. His hand was warm against Bert's cooler skin.

Bert sighed with a hint of mock frustration that didn't match the tenderness in his eyes. He closed his book slowly and silently laid his head on Ernie's, enjoying the quiet and shared warmth as the rain continued to fall outside.