Nothing But Time
By SMYGO4EVA
They didn't talk about it, not really.
Not yet.
At this point, they kept it light and careful and there was almost no mention of before, and for now, that is enough.
Ratchet was just grateful to have Cybertron back, for Earth was now safe.
He was also just grateful to have himself back.
The first time Nurse Darby stepped back in the base, the first time since the rest of the Autobots left for Cybertron, they wait until they were alone with their work. As he was an Autobot consultant now, she was one for reference of both Earth technology and human biology, and she was familiar with such interactions.
"I'm sorry," She uttered, her tone was solemn and tinged with regret.
"What for?" Ratchet asked, because if anyone should be apologizing, it was him.
"I'm sorry that you feel that you should be stuck here, even when your home is need of repairs, and when you and the others fought for so long to save it." June responded.
"I made my choice, Nurse Darby," The medic told her. "Before I began to understand humanity, I was lacking perspective. You of all people should know that when you feel needed, these matters take precedence."
He paused, taking in a breath. "I had to save myself to order to understand that."
June smiled, and even from above, Ratchet saw the spark in her eyes, the affection, the recognition, and his spark felt like it could burst right open, filled with every single thing that he was missing in what had felt like forever.
"Well, I'm proud of you, Ratchet." June answered.