The room was dim, the only light coming from the faint neon glow of the world outside their window. Goob, as usual, was snuggled up close, his big, clawed hands gently rubbing circles on Shrimpo’s small belly. The blanket was tucked securely around the two of them, Goob making sure not a single draft touched his partner.

Shrimpo, of course, was scowling. His little eyebrows were drawn down tight, his mouth turned in a deep frown. “I don’t like this,” he muttered, even though he hadn’t pushed Goob away.

Goob tilted his head, his wide, almost goofy grin never faltering. “Mhm, sure you don’t,” he said softly, brushing his claw up Shrimpo’s side just enough to make the smaller one wiggle. “That’s why you always fall asleep when I do this.”

“I– I don’t!” Shrimpo snapped back, his voice sharp. “I’m not tired. And I hate cuddling. And I hate you.”

Goob just chuckled, a low, warm sound that rumbled in his chest. “You don’t hate me. You’re just grumpy.” He leaned down, pressing the top of his head against Shrimpo’s. “And that’s okay. I’ll be soft enough for the both of us.”

Shrimpo’s frown deepened, his cheeks burning just a little under the dim glow. His claws twitched, like he wanted to push Goob away but couldn’t quite bring himself to. “…You’re so annoying,” he finally muttered.

“And you love me,” Goob replied instantly, as if it were the simplest truth in the world.

Shrimpo growled under his breath, but the tension in his body melted slowly as Goob’s hand rubbed gentle, soothing circles over his belly. His eyelids grew heavier by the minute. Goob noticed, but didn’t say a word this time—just held him closer, keeping him warm and safe under the covers.

By the time Shrimpo finally drifted off, his frown had softened into the smallest, barely-there smile. Goob kissed his forehead and whispered, “Knew it.”