I'll Always Be There

by ScreamGurl

All there was that Prime had for a warning was a light...a bright blue light. He didn't think anything could get any worse. But when he looked at his reflection only to find a human staring back; that's when things began to get interesting...

8. Chapter 8: Family Affairs

Chapter 8: Family Affairs

Several weeks have passed since that night, and Cole and Kira only face three more weeks of school. That and it was nearing Kira's birthday…and she could not wait.

"I'm turning six Opmus! I'm turning six!"

Looking from his spot at the stove Optimus chuckled nodding. "I know Kira, you've told me several times."

Prancing around the island table, Kira chimed. "Mommy says that we're having a family reunion tomorrow and a birthday party all at the same time!"

Sounding as though he had no idea Optimus smiled. "Oh really?"

Nodding excitedly Kira squealed. "Yep! And mommy says that if I'm REALLY good, I might get some presents!"

At that moment, Kira squealed even louder and paraded out of the kitchen into the living room.

Watching her leave, Cole looked up with an annoyed, dumbfounded expression. Seeing this, Optimus just chuckled and turned his attention back to the cream of chicken soup simmering on the stove. Hearing the toaster pop up, Optimus moved over pulling the four toasted pieces of bread out and placed them on a small plate, then placed four more pieces into the toaster pushing the lever down.

Looking up from his homework watching, Cole sighed putting his pencil down. "Why did Mrs. West have to give us homework on Friday? This is going to take me all weekend to finish!"

Again turning away from his spot at the stove, Optimus looked at Cole and then at his homework. "What is it you're working on?"

Looking up with an annoyed smirk, Cole suddenly smacked his forehead on the table and mumbled. "Math."

Raising his eyes, Optimus tilted his head. "I see, and what seems to be the problem?"

Looking up Cole watched as his pencil fell away from his head, leaving a red indentation. "We're learning about the Pythagorean theorem."

Putting down the spoon he had been using to stir, Optimus rested against the counter. "What about it?"

Pushing his book away and shutting it, Cole groaned. "Never mind, I'll just work on it later."

Remaining quiet for a minute or two, Optimus thought about trying to persuade Cole to continue working, however, now that he wasn't doing homework this gave him an excellent opportunity to ask some questions.

"Cole, would you consider answering something for me?"

Looking up, Cole nodded. "Sure."

Rubbing the back of his neck, Optimus looked away. "Kira said something about how your mother plans to have a reunion of your family tomorrow, correct?"

Cole nodded. "Yeah—."

Rubbing his face and chin, Optimus glanced at Cole. "Was this of your mother's planning?"

Shaking his head, Cole shrugged. "No. It was grandma's idea. I guess she saw Kira's sixth birthday as being a good reason to have the family come together."

Nodding Optimus glanced back at the soup bubbling on the stove. "And you're family…is it, large?"

Shrugging with a smirk, Cole folded his arms in front of him. "I guess so… why do you ask?"

Shaking his head, Optimus shook his head. "No reason. I was just curious."

Picking up a sense of uneasiness in his voice, Cole shifted in his seat. "You're nervous about meeting our family, aren't you?"

Looking up did his best to laugh. "N-No. Of course not. Why would I be nervous in meeting your family?"

Looking away back at the stove, Optimus grimaced. Why would he be nervous about meeting their family? It has always been a pride of Optimus' in saying that he took joy in meeting new individuals, and in no way, shape, or form was he ever nervous. So, why now was he, as the humans say: 'getting-butterflies-in-the –stomach' at the thought of meeting Jacklyn's brothers and sister along with her aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews?

"Optimus?"

Looking up Optimus noticed Cole watching him. "Yes Cole?"

Smiling Cole shrugged. "It's okay if you're nervous…"

Slowly Optimus smiled and nodded. Looks like there was no hiding the truth from Cole. His eyes were keen in picking up body behaviors. Even Optimus'.

Pushing the lever on the toaster up, Optimus quickly pulled the four slices of toast up and put two on each plate, then covered the slices with a ladle full of cream of chicken soup. Placing a plate in front of Cole, Optimus was rewarded by a boy licking his lips while reaching for a fork as well as the salt and pepper.

At hearing the clanking of eating utensils, Kira streaked into the kitchen taking her spot. Scooping her fork up into her hand, she watched and waited for her plate. To Optimus, it felt like throwing a couple scraps of metal to a hungry hoard of scraplets, because Cole and Kira wolfed down the meal placed in front of them just like a scraplet would. Or was comparing the two of them to scraplets a little harsh?

With a chuckle, Optimus turned away to place four more slices of toast in the toaster.

"Hey, Optimus."

Looking over his shoulder, Optimus noticed Cole holding his plate out. Smiling Cole shrugged. His plate was empty.

Letting his jaw drop slightly, Optimus scowled. Nope, they eat like scraplets all right.

…

…

A short time later, Optimus kneeled next to the dishwasher loading the dirty plates and utensils in.

Cole and Kira sat on the living room floor playing Doomed Dungeons 2 when the door slowly creeked open.

Hungry and exhausted, Jacklyn smiled closing the door behind her.

After pausing the game, Cole and Kira both glanced over their shoulders and smiled speaking in unison. "Hi mom."

"Hi mommy."

Smiling in return, Jacklyn dropped her keys and her purse with a thud onto the coffee table. "Well, there's two of my three monsters. So, where's the third?"

"And just who might you be calling 'a monster', if I may ask?"

Peering around the corner, Optimus leaned against the frame of the door way, greeting Jacklyn with a smile.

Smiling back Jacklyn shrugs, then walks past Optimus into the kitchen having heard something. "Is the dishwasher running?"

Shrugging, Optimus chuckled. "No, it is actually quite stationary."

Wheeling around Jacklyn lightly smacked Optimus in the chest. "You don't need to be a smart-ass you know."

Chuckling louder, Optimus waved dismissively. "Well, you asked."

With a smug smile, she placed her hands on her hips. "What I meant was, did someone fill and turn on the dishwasher?"

With a simple nod Optimus turned away. "There were several dishes that were dirty; so as to keep strain off of you I thought you'd appreciate my taking responsibility."

Tilting her head, Jacklyn smiled in surprise. Moving away from the dishwasher, she raised a hand and placed it on Optimus' forehead.

Watching her movements, Optimus huffed in confusion. "What are you doing?"

Chiding at him playfully, Jacklyn smiled. "Checking your temperature. Obviously you have a fever or something because no sound man I've ever met has done the dishes WILLFULLY."

With a scoff of playfulness, Optimus pulled Jacklyn's hand away and laughed softly while turning to leave. Grabbing him by the shoulder, Jacklyn pulled him back towards her, then turned him around to face her while grabbing the belt loops of the front of his pants. But when she did that, Optimus' chest brushed against hers.

As their eyes met, Optimus couldn't help but see that her face had suddenly turned red. Her eyes were locked on his for only seconds, but between them it seemed like several minutes. Looking down, Jacklyn tried to casually look at Optimus' chest, even though Optimus could plain as day feel her heart rate spike rapidly.

They were in direct contact…intimate contact.

Jacklyn's eyes slowly began to drift shut as the moment started to sweep over her. It had been so long since she had felt the comforting touch of a man close to her. But was this okay? Being close to Optimus like this?

Pulling away suddenly Optimus coughed and looked away rubbing the back of his neck, trying to behave as though nothing happened. "Y-You must be quite hungry Jacklyn. Allow me to make you something to eat."

Turning away toward the counter, Optimus opened the cupboard, reaching for a plate.

With almost a breath of disappointment, Jacklyn leaned back against the island watching Optimus; almost wishing he hadn't pulled away.

Setting a plate on the counter, Optimus had to stop to take a deep breath. For some odd reason or another, his heart was also beating rapidly. But why? Why does it always beat like this when Jacklyn touches him?

Pulling the toaster out from the corner of the cupboard, Optimus inserted two slices of toast and pressed the lever down.

Running in, Cole paraded around and stopped in front of his mother. "Hey mom, why are you home so early?"

Shaking the thought of Optimus from her mind, she gazed down at Cole and smiled. "Well, I figured since Kira's birthday was tomorrow, that we'd all go out for a little birthday surprise."

Peering around the corner with her eyes glistening Kira gasped. "Birthday surprise?!"

Laughing, Jacklyn nodded. "Yes. So, as soon as I'm done eating we'll go."

Placing the plate of crème of chicken soup on toast in front of Jacklyn Optimus smiled. "Well, I hope you three have fun." Turning away Optimus started toward the living room when he suddenly heard Jacklyn clear her throat.

Turning back around, Optimus saw Jacklyn smiling. "Uh, Optimus…when I said 'we'll go', I sort of meant that you were welcome to come along too."

"Yeah Opmus—."

Just then Kira suddenly threw herself around Optimus' leg, latching on to his pants. "You have to go too! Please?"

Looking at Kira, and then at Jacklyn, Optimus was met with two pairs of eyes pleading for him to go. But for some reason, Jacklyn's were somehow more sincere. Wanting something. Needing something.

With a sigh, looking down at Kira, Optimus smiled. "Alright Kira, I'll go."

In an excited squeal of victory Kira released her grip on Optimus and fell to the floor.

Cole laughed for only a moment before turning back to his mother. "So where are we going mom?"

Passing a glance to Optimus, who also was curious to know, Jacklyn smiled mischievously. "It's a surprise."

…

…

As they pulled into the parking lot, Kira and Cole's eyes were as wide as saucers, glistening with the reflections of colorful lights, their eyes completely glued to the truck's window.

Without looking away Cole choked. "Mom…Are—are you serious?"

Looking up in the rearview mirror, Jacklyn smiled. "What? I thought you guys would like going to the Arizona state fair? But if you guys don't wanna go—."

Without needing to hear another word, Cole and Kira practically hurtled themselves out of the back seat into the parking lot, running forward toward the fairgrounds about ten feet before stopping.

Wheeling around Cole yelled. "Come on mom! Come on Optimus! I wanna go ride the roller coaster!"

Jumping up and down Kira also yelled. "Mommy! Mommy! I wanna ride the merry-go-round!"

Passing a glance to Optimus, Jacklyn smiled and got out of the truck. "Alright guys, alright I'm coming."

Following Jacklyn, Optimus also got out of the truck and watched as she locked the doors.

Shifting her purse on her shoulder, she proceeded after Cole and Kira. Stopping, she turned around to see Optimus just standing there watching the lights.

It's funny how certain things on Earth reminded him of Cybertron. More so now that he was human than what they would have had he been in his original robotic form. The lights, the sounds, the entire general atmosphere seemed to remind him of Six Lasers back on Cybertron. Although he, being a data clerk at the time, had never had the opportunity to go always loved hearing the sounds of excitement emanating from inside the park's barriers. Before it was blown up in a series of explosions that also took Uraya, Polyhex, Stanix, and Blaster City as well as several other sites in the Sonic Canyons, Six Lasers was renowned for being a place of amusement for the higher castes of Cybertron before the break out of war. Back in the days of being a data clerk, Optimus would have given anything to just be able to glimpse through the gates—

"Optimus!"

Looking up, Optimus saw Jacklyn, Cole and Kira waiting for him.

Smiling Jacklyn held out a hand. "Come on, the kids wanna go get their tickets."

Smiling back, Optimus lightly jogged to catch up and slowed to Jacklyn's side. She smiled and motioned inside. "Come on, the kids are waiting."

…

The fairgrounds were loud and crowded with excitement. Various lights, sounds, and colors were drawing Optimus' attention left and right. Could this place be anything like what Six Lasers was like?

Everything at this moment as Optimus walked beside Jacklyn was of interest to his senses, which were humming with every new stimulus. The sounds of metal rides creaking and groaning while sending it's passengers hurtling around with phenomenal inertia as well as buzzers and alarms going off on games; the smells of various pastries sizzling in grease, making the smell of cooking sugar available to any organic olfactory sensor on the grounds; even the sights lights and motions of the rides were enough to draw attention.

"Mom! Mom!"

Looking over Optimus noticed Cole tugging anxiously at his mother's sleeve. "Mom, can I PLEASE go ride the Steel Viper? Please?!"

Cringing slightly Jacklyn casually shook her head. "I don't know Cole, you really think you can handle a ride like that? Usually you have to have an adult go on with you for rides like that."

Shrugging Cole continued to tug. "Well, then you could go on with me! Please mom?"

Sighing Jacklyn continued to shake her head. "Sweet-heart, I haven't felt good all day. I really don't think going on the Steel Viper would help me any."

Seeing the look of disappointment come over Cole, Jacklyn smiled gently and looked at Optimus. "Maybe Optimus would go on with you."

With his eyes lighting up, Cole ran around his mother and tugged on Optimus' arm. "Optimus, would you go on the Steel Viper with me? Please?"

Looking Cole over Optimus asked curiously. "What is this 'Steel Viper' you speak of, exactly?"

Pointing, Cole beamed. "That!"

Just then, the color seemed to flush out of Optimus' face, for the attraction Cole was pointing to was probably the largest structure on the grounds. Rails extended upward for at least 190 feet into the air. There were loops; curves and turns that the cars whipped around at speeds Optimus could only guess were around 65 miles per hour. The sign, promoting this monster displayed a large black snake with its fangs displayed.

Swallowing hard Optimus felt his stomach drop. Looking at Cole Optimus raised his eyes in concern. "You want me…to go…on that."

Nodding excitedly Cole tried to pull Optimus along. "I've always wanted to go on the Steel Viper, but I can never get mom or any other adult to go on with me."

Looking at it again Optimus somewhat scowled. Looks can be deceiving. After all, this 'Steel Viper' can't be any worse than riding in a ship while being shot at. The maneuvers are reckless and you're rolling and turning over all the time. That never bothered him, so why should the 'Steel Viper'?

Looking at Cole with a smile, Optimus nodded. "Ask your mother. If she agrees then I will go on with you."

Leaping in triumph Cole practically tackled his mother. "Please mom! Please! Please! Please! PLEASE!"

Looking at Optimus with a smirk, she casually shrugged. "Alright."

Practically screaming, Cole jumped and grabbed Optimus' arm tugging him along. Looking back around at Jacklyn Optimus suddenly felt a sinking feeling as Jacklyn waved them on, a grin on her face that extended practically from ear to ear. Obviously she knew something he didn't.

…

…

"Oh my gosh! Could you believe that last turn?! It was like… WHOOSH! And you should have seen the look on your face Optimus! You looked scared! That was AMAZING! Optimus can we go again? Huh? Can we? Can we? Can we?!"

Jumping up and down Cole preened and galloped.

Optimus was slow and careful making sure the food in his stomach STAYED in his stomach. The Steel Viper was NOTHING like riding in a ship while being shot at. What the frag was HE thinking?

Just then Optimus heard a gentle laugh. Looking up Optimus saw Jacklyn holding Kira's hand. "So…did you boys have fun?"

Jumping in place Cole grinned. "Oh mom you totally missed it! It was AWESOME! We had to have been going at LEAST 90 miles an hour on some of those turns!"

Sighing Optimus fought trying not to remember the last turn Cole was talking about.

Watching Optimus, Jacklyn quietly tried to hide her laughter. Looking up Optimus scowled, then casually looked at Cole. "Cole, why don't you take your sister and try to win her a prize at one of those game stands."

Looking at the stand and then at Kira, Cole took Kira's hand and started to lead her away. "Come on Kira, I win you that big stuffed purple killer whale."

As the two of them walked over to the game, Optimus leaned over to Jacklyn and whispered in her ear. "You did that on purpose, didn't you?"

Looking away mischievously and then back at Optimus with a smirk Jacklyn slowly started to walk away toward Cole and Kira. "I have no idea what you're talking about Optimus."

Following Optimus stopped and listened to a little man standing behind the counter. Cole and Kira returned to Optimus and Jacklyn and stood watching. Looking up at Optimus, Kira pleaded. "Opmus, I want the big purple killer whale. Can you win it for me?"

Looking at the game and then at the gentleman behind the counter, Optimus sighed. "So how does this game work exactly?"

Looking up the little man grinned to reveal a series of missing teeth. "Well, mister it's simple. You see that stack of six bottles back yonder?"

Optimus noticed the bottles stacked in a pyramid shape and nodded. The man smiled and shrugged. "All ya gots ta do is take one of these here three soft balls and knock the pile over. Do that and 'ya win a prize! It's easy, so easy that there kid could do it!"

Looking at Cole Optimus motioned to the stack of bottles. "I thought you were going to attempt to win a prize for your sister, Cole."

Shrugging Cole also looked at the game. "I didn't have enough money."

Handing Cole a few dollars Jacklyn smiled. "Now you do. Go on Cole."

Handing the man five dollars, Cole was then handed a small bucket with three soft balls. Looking at the three stacks of bottles, Cole sighed and threw one ball.

He missed.

He threw the second ball. Miss. Then finally the third and final ball. Swing and a miss.

Chuckling, the small man sighed and shrugged. "Better luck next time sunny."

Looking at Optimus, Cole sighed heavily. Optimus could see it in his eyes. He wanted to win that stuffed toy for Kira as a birthday present. Looking at the man and then at the bottles, Optimus grinned mischievously and turned to Jacklyn. "Could I please borrow enough currency for this game?"

With a look of bewilderment, Jacklyn slowly nodded and reached into her purse for five dollars.

What was Optimus up to?

Handing the small man the five dollars, Optimus smiled. "My turn."

Looking at the three stacks of bottles Optimus chuckled quietly to himself. True, he may not be aiming a weapon at an enemy right now, but all those millennia of aiming at Decepticons was about to pay off in the next few seconds.

Building up strength in his arm, Optimus wheeled his arm over his head and threw the ball with such force that Jacklyn could clearly hear the ball break the air as it slid into the game enclosure.

To Cole it seemed as though time slowed down between the time the ball left Optimus' hand and it hit the bottles, which shattered instantly. The ball obliterated the stack of glass milk bottle sending shards and specks into the air. The immediate vicinity grew quiet as Optimus moved back into an upward position gazing at the damage he caused.

Smiling, he grabbed a second ball and did the same to yet another defenseless stack of bottles.

Taking a simple breath, Optimus again yielded his arm up, flexing the muscles in his arms before letting his arm give way forward, releasing the ball into the third and final pile.

When watching the ball plow through the bottles, to Optimus it offered just a fraction of the same satisfaction felt when defeating a foe, but satisfaction none the less.

A series of loud cheers and hollers erupted from Cole and Kira who were enjoying every single moment of the show.

Turning around, Optimus was a bit surprised to see Cole and Kira both jumping up and down cheering. Smiling in embarrassment, feeling the blood rush to his face, Optimus bowed his head respectively to the two.

Shaking her head while quietly applauding, Jacklyn smiled. It was then that Optimus and Jacklyn's eyes again met. With that look, Optimus felt his heart swell with a renowned sense of pride as Jacklyn held a 'thumbs up' in approval braced with the accompany of a warm supportive smile.

Removing the hat from his head, the small man behind the counter nodded in defeat. This man, this stranger had beaten his game with all the glory to his name. Motioning behind him, the man beamed externally, although he mourned internally. "Pick a prize sir, any prize."

Looking around at the various, colorful prizes on display, Optimus could clearly see the large, stuffed, purple killer whale that Cole had been after. Pointing to it, Optimus smiled. "I'll have the purple killer whale."

Using a hook on a long handle, the man took down the stuffed animal and handed it to Optimus. Looking down at Kira and then at Cole, he beamed and winked handing it to Cole. Cole took it, grateful for Optimus' actions and looked at Kira. "Happy Birthday Kira."

Holding it out to his younger sister, Cole was filled with joy to see Kira's eyes light up.

Taking it she smiled and rubbed her face into the animal's soft fur. "Thank you Cole."

Pulling Cole into a hug for a few moments Kira sighed happily but then pulled away and wrapped herself around Optimus' legs. "Thank you for winning my present Opmus."

Kneeling, Optimus looked into Kira's eyes and let her fall against his chest in a hug. "You're very welcome Kira."

A moment passed as Kira rested against Optimus' chest. But then Kira pulled away and looked up at Optimus smiling. "Opmus, do you know what I want for my birthday?"

Smiling, Optimus rested his arm on his knee. "What would that be?"

Swaying Kira stared at the ground and then looked up at Optimus pleading. "Can I sit on your shoulders while we walk around the fairgrounds?"

Grinning Optimus chuckled. "Of course you can little one."

Optimus felt almost overwhelmed as Kira leaped onto him. Holding her up, Optimus was careful to move Kira from on his back to up on his shoulders.

As Optimus stood to his full height, Kira stared down and then leaned over to look at Optimus. "Hey Opmus, I'm taller than you now!"

Chuckling, Optimus casually held Kira's legs and started walking, with Jacklyn and Cole right beside him. "Would you look at that; you are taller than me Kira."

Laughing and holding her new toy high in the air in victory, she squealed in happiness. "This is the best birthday ever!"

Laughing Cole scoffed. "You're birthday is tomorrow there smart one."

Turning around slightly and looking down Kira huffed. "I knew that."

Turning back around to face the front, Kira put her face into the air, feeling the breeze blow by.

Optimus looked up and then back down quietly chuckling to himself. In all truth, Optimus couldn't remember the last time he had this much fun.

Had he ever had this much fun?

Last time he remembered he hadn't smiled or laughed this much since his youngling years…and that was so long ago.

Just then Optimus felt something warm and soft slip into his hand and grip it tightly.

It was Jacklyn.

Looking down at his own hand, Optimus could plainly see Jacklyn was holding his hand in hers. Looking up at her, he smiled at the sight of her looking away blushing slightly…

Yet another example of a moment where he smiled and did not feel foolish in doing so.

Glancing back down at his hand, he opened his palm, letting her fingers slip between his, interlocking their hands together.

Looking up Jacklyn watched Optimus, only to see that he was watching her with a warm, gentle smile.

There was something so different about this man, different and yet so similar. He was…cold and a bit ruff around the outside but inside he was warm, kind, gentle and loving. There was something about him…about his eyes, his smile that caused her to want to gravitate to him. Why?

Just then a loud roar boomed through the air gaining everyone's attention. Jumping back slightly, Optimus flinched, tensing up his entire body.

Looking down at Optimus, Kira leaned over staring at him. "Opmus? Why'd you tense up?"

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn was a bit surprised to see Optimus standing completely upright, his attention fully fixed in the direction of the loud uproar.

Just now something about Optimus had changed. He was different. He was no longer fun and playful like before, now he was rough, quiet and discipline. His face was not that anymore of a fun-loving companion…but that of a protector, of a soldier.

"Optimus, are you alright?"

Optimus said nothing, but instead continued to stare off.

"Optimus?!"

Behaving as though he suddenly snapped out of a deep trance, he looked over. Looking back at Jacklyn, Optimus hesitated for but a moment, then started to walk away. "We should go home."

Looking at the direction of the loud noise, Jacklyn laughed half-heartedly. "Optimus, it's just the tractor-pull."

Pulling Kira gently off of his shoulders, placing her on the ground Optimus looked up at Jacklyn, his glance having changed. "Jacklyn…I need to go home."

Slowly Jacklyn nodded. "Okay…okay if you need to go home…we can go."

…

…

…

Hours passed.

The skies were dark and no stars could shine through the thick mass of clouds hanging low in the sky. The city's lights casted an eerie orange glow on the clouds.

Sitting on the floor, Optimus watched out the balcony porch window as the city began to grow quiet.

Soft rumbles of thunder rolled through the air followed by ripples of lightning shining across the skies.

Jacklyn watched as the light casted from the lightning reflected off of Optimus' face. His stature was stiff and cold as he stared gloomily across the landscape as rain slowly began to drizzle down the glass pane of the door.

Laughing halfheartedly, Jacklyn walked into the cool, dark room. "Optimus, it's almost two in the morning. Why are you still up sitting in the dark?"

He was silent.

Jacklyn slowly kneeled beside Optimus, sitting across from him. "O-Optimus…are you alright?"

Looking up suddenly, Optimus nodded then turned back to stare out the window again.

Looking out the corner of his eyes Optimus paused looking Jacklyn over. She was dressed in a white silk night gown the gently accented the gentle curves of her body. The straps where thin and spindly, resting loosely on her shoulders, the lace around her chest on the gown forced Optimus to notice the fleshy structures that the lace was attempting to hide.

Pulling a strand of loose hair away from her eyes, Jacklyn sighed. "Optimus, is something bothering you? You acted kind of strange this evening and the kids where—."

Playing with a lock of hair Jacklyn huffed. "I was wondering what was wrong."

Looking up to meet her gaze for a split moment, Optimus sighed.

Standing up, Optimus turned away and rested his hand against the wall. He stayed with his back to Jacklyn for quite some time before suddenly turning back to meet her eyes. "You really want to know what is troubling me?"

Jacklyn stood to meet Optimus' height. "Yes. I want to know."

Optimus watched Jacklyn for some time before turning his head away looking back out the window. "When we were at the fairgrounds this afternoon, when I went on the roller coaster with Cole, when I won that toy for Kira—." Slowly Optimus turned back to Jacklyn but their eyes did not meet. "That was the most fun I've had in a very long time. And for a few hours I felt as though I could forget the past and live in the moment.

But…when I heard that loud percussion…from the tractor pull—." Optimus then looked up meeting Jacklyn's gaze. This time, really letting his eyes meet hers. "It caused my mind to flood with memories from my past—."

Pulling away, Optimus rose from his sitting position and turned his back to Jaclyn…hiding the hurt. "Haunting…gruesome memories. Memories I'd soon rather forget ever happened."

Just then a soft, warm hand rested on Optimus' shoulder. Turning around Optimus' eyes fell on Jacklyn's. Stepping closer to Optimus, so close that their chests rubbed against one another's, Jacklyn stared up at Optimus with concern searing in her eyes. "Optimus…"

Slowly lifting her hand, Jacklyn gently brushed the hair away from his eyes.

Running her fingers through his long black hair, she watched him, studied him. "Oh Optimus…I can't even start to imagine what kind of hell you've lived through. And I'm not all sure I even want to know. But if I know anything, it's that whatever hell you're trying to forget is in the past…and you know what they say…"

Smiling hoarsely, Optimus shrugged. "What is it they always say?

Resting her hand on the back of his head, she gently pulled him closer, resting her forehead against his. "The past is history, the future is a mystery but the real gift is today…that's why they call it the present."

Chuckling softly, Optimus purred. "Who told you that?"

Cracking up slightly in laughter Jacklyn shrugged. "Some turtle in 'Kung Fu Panda.'"

Optimus smiled but remained silent. Sighing Jacklyn gently rubbed his back with one hand, while holding his arm with the other.

Looking down Optimus saw that Jacklyn was leaning on his arm, looking out the same window at the glistening orange lights of the city. The soaked city glistened and glowed in what was now a gentle mist instead of a steady rain. Looking up at Optimus, Jacklyn smiled warmly and purred. "You know Optimus, If something is bothering you to the point that it's keeping you up at night. You can wake me up and talk to me about it. I don't mind."

Returning the smile, Optimus gently rested his open hand on Jacklyn's. "Thank you Jacklyn. Your concern for me is in more ways than one, quite comforting."

Gently patting his arm Jacklyn sighed. "Well, I'm glad you feel that way."

A moment passed where the two of them just stood holding one another watching as the rain dribbled down the glass. Letting go of her grip on Optimus, she sighed and stretched. "It's getting rather late and we have a family reunion to go to tomorrow. What do you say we go back to bed and get some sleep?"

Looking over at Jacklyn Optimus nodded. "I agree. Let us go back to sleep."

Jacklyn smiled and held out her hand which Optimus took. And with that they walked together back into the quiet darkness that was Jacklyn's bedroom.

…

…

When Optimus opened his eyes again, everything was white. The landscape was flat and barren. Turning his head all the way around to convey the entire scene, Optimus could not understand where he was or how he even got there. The ground like the horizon and the sky was white. The only difference was that the earth was cracked, dry and lifeless. Although in most fairness, everything was that way. There was no sign of any kind of life. What kind of purgatory was this?

Everything looked as if it had been eaten away by the searing heat that looms in most deserts. But this place, the air, the whole atmosphere was cold. So cold that Optimus could see the vapors of his breath rising in front of his eyes.

Looking into the distance, through the illusion of heat rising off the horizon Optimus saw a dark figure. A woman. Standing there, perfectly still with her arms open wide. As he approached the illusion faded away only to reveal not a woman, but a tree. A dying willow with no leaves and bark as black as death. It's sorrowful branches looming over a pool of water that sit at the base of the willow's gnarled roots.

Raising his hand, Optimus gently rested against the tree, only to see a black metallic hand against the tree's black bark. Jumping back Optimus was still, He lifted his hands, starting at them, letting his eyes trace his arms…and shoulders. Then he gazed at himself. His feet. His legs. His chest. The red, blue and silver armor stared back at him gleaming with the white background. He was Cybertronian again.

Staring into the dark pool of water, Optimus was greeted with the same autonomous face that he once had as an Autobot. He was himself again. Suddenly a drop of water fell from the tree's branches and rippled his reflection. When the water settled again, no longer was it an Autobot's face string at him, but instead the face that of a human. Of him as a human. The scar that protruded his optic still remained on the reflection that now stared up at him.

It's actions mimicked that of his own. But suddenly the figure was more than that of a reflection for it reached up and grabbed his metallic arm and refused to let go. It was pulling him down, pulling him under the dark cold surface of water. Pulling him down, deeper, and deeper. The coldness wrapping it's suffocating grip around him as everything grew darker. So dark until there was nothing but black. And a voice was calling him. Was calling his name…"

…

…

"Optimus?"

"Optimus?"

Sitting on the bed with her head half cocked to the side, Jacklyn gently shook Optimus. "Optimus, it's time to get up."

As she sat there watching him, Jacklyn couldn't help but notice that Optimus' eyes were shut tight and were twitching. His fists clenched the sheets and his teeth grinded harshly, and he kept mumbling something. The same thing over and over again.

Leaning down next to him, listening to what it was he was saying.

Optimus twitched his head slightly to the side and was breathing heavily, whispering barely loud enough for anyone to hear. "No…..no…..please…where are you? Stop….no…No…stop it…..stop it now…..stop…."

His breathing was staring to become more erratic. His twitching was becoming more like thrashing. His fist was turning white now from how hard he was gripping the sheets.

Watching with concern, Jacklyn abruptly slammed a hand on Optimus and shook him. "Optimus, wake up!"

Jolting upright, Optimus sat there breathing hard, his eyes wide awake now scanning the room.

"Optimus?"

Looking over, Optimus saw Jacklyn watching him with the same look of concern. "A-Are you all right?"

Letting his breathing slow, Optimus nodded realizing he was in a cold sweat. "I…am all right Jacklyn. I just…had a disturbing dream. That's all."

Cocking her head, Jacklyn looked Optimus up and down with an astonished glance. "'Disturbing dream'? Seemed more like a nightmare to me from the way you were talking and thrashing around."

Looking away Optimus was breathing slowly but loud enough that Jacklyn could hear every inhale and exhale. Reaching up, Jacklyn gently brushed the black locks of hair from his eyes and rested a hand against his cheek. Looking at Jacklyn over her fingers, Optimus smiled and closed his eyes, pushing his cheek into her hand.

Pulling her hand away, Jacklyn sighed and pulled the blanket off of her legs. "I'm going to go start making breakfast and put the final touches on that salad for this afternoon. You might want to think about getting up and getting dressed. We have to leave in about an hour or so if we want to make it to that reunion on time instead of being 'fashionably-late'."

Optimus watched as Jacklyn walked out of the room. Pulling the covers off, Optimus slowly sat up at the edge of the bed, still slightly quivering from the dream. The hairs on his arms and legs were just starting to settle instead of being upright.

It was amazing to him how as being an Autobot commander, with the heat of battle resting on your shoulders the majority of the time, it almost seemed as though you never truly had time to think, instead you just acted on impulse an hoped that your judgment was good. Now, it seemed like there was nothing to do other than think.

"Hey Optimus?"

Looking over his shoulder, Optimus saw Jacklyn standing in the bedroom doorway holding a dish towel in one hand and a spatula in the other. "Could you please go get Cole and Kira out of bed?"

Optimus nodded. "I can, and I will."

Jacklyn smiled and turned away to attend the contents sizzling on the stove. "Thank you."

Grabbing his jeans that lay beside the bed, Optimus stood up pulling his pants up with him.

While zipping up the zipper, Optimus released a soft groan. Perhaps it was just better to forget the previous night's cognitive activities and focus more on the day that lay ahead. After all, today was the day that Optimus was to meet the rest of Jacklyn's family.

…

…

Over the muffled bellows of Cole's voice saying he didn't want to get up, Optimus sighed. "Cole, you have to get out of bed. Your mother said we have less than an hour to eat breakfast and be on the road in order to make it to the reunion relatively on time."

Looking up from under the pillow Cole scowled. "I don't even want to go."

Looking in from the doorway, Jacklyn countered with a scowl of her own. "I don't care if you want to go or not young man, you're going and that's final."

Standing up from his spot on Cole's bed Optimus trotted over and stood next to Jacklyn watching Cole.

Sitting up with his hair in a frizzled mess, Cole yawned. "But mom—

Pointing a dangerous finger at Cole, Jacklyn hissed. "Colton James Helm, if you do not get your butt out of bed within the next 30 seconds, I will drag your butt out of bed and haul you to the reunion as you are! You really want your cousins seeing the dinosaur feety-pajamas that you're wearing?"

Pulling his blanket up over his shoulders, Cole huffed and pouted. "No."

Crossing her arms Jacklyn huffed. "Good. Now get up and get dressed like Optimus told you to do." Jacklyn then turned away to attend breakfast.

Turning his face away with a jutted out bottom lip, cringing his teeth Cole hissed. "He's not my dad. I don't have to listen to him."

Jacklyn suddenly stopped and wheeled around then returned to Cole's doorway. "What did you say?"

Looking up at Optimus and then at his mother, Cole growled and spoke louder. "I said; he's not my dad. I don't have to listen to him."

Growling Jacklyn huffed. "Colton James—

Just then a hand rested on Jacklyn's shoulder. Looking up Jacklyn saw Optimus watching her with gentle eyes.

"He's right Jacklyn."

Jacklyn remained silent. Optimus sighed and looked at Cole. "I am not Cole's male parental figure and therefore have no right to be able to tell him what he can or cannot do. That is not my place. And I am sorry Cole if I made you feel as though that was what I was doing. So if it is any consolation, I am not telling you to get dressed…I am merely asking."

Slowly Optimus turned away and ventured down the hallway. Both Jacklyn and Cole passed confused glances to one another before Cole finally looked away and coughed. "I'm-a going to get dressed now. Okay mom?"

Jacklyn was quiet for sometime before nodding and turning away, shutting the door behind her. "Okay."

Who knew Optimus could defuse a situation that quick.

…

…

Later in the car, all but Kira we pretty much quiet.

After this morning Optimus wasn't as sure anymore that him and Cole were seeing eye-to-eye anymore. There's been a sudden change in him. The last few weeks had been going so well, and now all of a sudden, Cole has become incredibly hostile. Why?

As they pulled off the interstate, Jacklyn watched out the window and sighed. "Um…Optimus?"

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus answered. "Yes?"

Keeping her eyes on the road, Jacklyn sighed. "I think there are a few things you should know before going into the belly of the beast."

Raising his brow as well as the majority of his forehead in surprise, Optimus tilted his head. "Come again?"

Laughing slightly, Jacklyn turned the car onto a street with a sign that read 'Greene Valley Estates'. "What I mean is; I think there are a few things you should know before we get to my mother's house."

Optimus nodded. "Alright, what do I need to know?"

Looking up Jacklyn sighed heavily. "It's too late now, we're here."

Looking up through the windshield, Optimus was a bit taken back by the scene that filled his field of vision. Pulling through a gate with massive blue spruce pine trees on either side lay a massive white house which more resembled that of a small mansion. Great white marble pillars made up the stone arch that loomed over an outdoor veranda. Long limbs of a flowering vine loomed and twisted around the columns onto the roof and east side of the house. The drive way was a circle that went right up to the stairs of the veranda, but went around a large ceramic fountain that concealed a stone statue of a female human holding a container of sorts that spewed an endless bounty of water into a pool below. The estate entirely was a marvel that even an Autobot, current or former, could come to appreciate.

Within the driveway, there were already several cars parked. Jacklyn pulled in behind a blue sports car that still had the license plate from the dealer in which it came from. As Jacklyn turned off the ignition the car, Cole jumped out and turned to his mother.

"Mom, can I take the salad up to the house?"

Squirming in her car-seat, Kira huffed. "Mommy, I wanna take the salad to grandma!"

Growling Cole huffed. "I get to take it!"

Looking at Jacklyn, Kira's eyes started to glisten from tears that were beginning to swell up. Smiling warmly Jacklyn sighed as she unbuckled Kira from her restraints. "Tell you what sweetheart, you can carry the bowl back out to the truck when we go home. Okay?"

With a sniff, Kira pulled her chin up. "Okay."

Smiling Jacklyn nuzzled Kira with an Eskimo kiss. Kira giggled returning the gesture by putting her forehead against her mother's. Jacklyn laughed softly then lifted Kira out of her car seat and set her on the ground and patted her butt. "Go find your Uncle John."

Smiling Kira premed and galloped up to the veranda where Cole was standing. "Okay mommy!"

Walking up beside her, Optimus gently took Jacklyn's hand in his own and held it tightly. Looking at their conjoined hands and then up at Optimus, Jacklyn gently smiled and squeezed his hand reassuringly. "Everything is going to be fine Optimus."

Looking down at Jacklyn, Optimus smiled and nodded. "I know."

Sighing Jacklyn raised her head and started to move forward to the house. "Now out of the frying pan—

Just then the door swung open to reveal Jacklyn's mother Caroline. Kira looked up smiling and Cole gave his absolute best attempt at a smile. Embracing both of them in a single hug, Caroline gave a half attempt at being a grandma. She whispered to them then ushered them to come inside, but not before she spotted Jacklyn and Optimus coming up the drive. "Jacklyn darling! I was starting to think that you weren't coming. I thought that maybe you maybe had better things to do then spend time with your family."

Glancing at Optimus Jacklyn whispered. "Out of the frying pan…and into the fire."

As the two of them walked up the stairs and moved into the house Jacklyn sighed smiling sheepishly. "We are just running a little late because a detour on Highway twenty one."

Looking past Jacklyn with skeptical eyes, Caroline set her glance on Optimus. Looking Optimus up and down Caroline scoffed. "It's Oliver, right?"

Smiling skeptically, Optimus shook his head no. Jacklyn laughed sheepishly. "It's Optimus, mom."

Clasping her hands suddenly Caroline laughed. "Oh dear, I'm so terribly sorry. I am just horrible with names and faces."

Optimus bowed his head respectively. "It's quite alright."

There was a quick moment of silence that was suddenly reprimanded by Caroline chuckling in what would seem to most a menacing tone.

Looking her mother over, Jacklyn questioned. "Mom, what's the matter?"

Laughing, Caroline just shook her head in utter astonishment. "I am just completely drawn for words."

Cocking her head slightly while passing a quick glance to Optimus, Jacklyn again had to ask. "Why mom?"

Looking over at Optimus with a glance of not only skepticism, but also pure intent of insult, Caroline shrugged. "I'm just so astonished that THIS ONE has stuck around so long. A new record, huh Jacklyn dear?"

At that point in time, it took everything Jacklyn could muster just to stay calm and collected. Just then Cole came around the corner.

"Mom can I—

Cole suddenly stopped seeing a show down that could challenge anything from the OK Corral. "Mom?"

Looking away from her mother Jacklyn looked to Cole and smiled. "What is it sweetheart?"

Regaining his train of thought, Cole swallowed and licked his lips. "Mom, can Christopher, Kegan and I go play in the back yard?"

Looking back at her mother, Jacklyn slightly scowled. "ask your grandmother Cole. It's her yard."

Looking up at his grandmother, he repeated the question. Looking down at Cole she smiled. "Of course dear, of course. Just stay out of the pond, there are coy in there worth more than what you could probably make in a lifetime."

Cole was silent for a moment but then said okay and walked away.

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn motioned to Cole. "Optimus why don't you go with him?"

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus fully understood what Jacklyn wanted to do, and respected that. Slowly Optimus let go of Jacklyn's hand and started to walk away but then quickly hid around the corner to listen to the conversation that was going to take place.

Looking at her mother Jacklyn scowled and spoke very low, as so to keep the conversation between them.

"Mother, I came here not to receive a lecture from you about my previous choices in men. I came here because I want my kids to be able to see their aunts, uncles and cousins that they otherwise don't get to see. I would like to spend time with my siblings that I never see.

Optimus is my date and in more ways than one is part of MY family. If you are going to give him, or any one of us a hard time then all of us are leaving."

Turning away Jacklyn stormed out. She walked right past the corner that Optimus was standing behind without actually seeing him.

When she disappeared through the doorway, Optimus stepped out and cocked his head lost in wonder. Jacklyn openly stood up for him.

"Do you make a point of eavesdropping on other people's conversations?"

Straightening up suddenly, Optimus closed his eyes and cursed himself. He had forgotten about Caroline. Turning around he confirmed that she was indeed standing there.

Carolyn began to walk in circles around Optimus, looking him from head to toe. "Are you going to answer me or not?"

Keeping a calm collected stature, Optimus watched intently, the same way he would watch a Decepticon getting ready to open fire. With a quiet inhale he spoke. "Answer what if I may ask?"

Crossing her arms, Caroline casually stared. "I think you know what I mean."

Looking at her he sighed. "Do I?"

Caroline scowled ever-so slightly for but a moment before laughing somewhat menacingly. "I'll give you credit, you're a lot smarter than what you let on to be. But still…."

Slowly her voice lowered. "I have a low tolerance for people with smart mouths."

Lowering his voice as well, Optimus raised his chest, staring down at Caroline. "And I have a low tolerance for those who think themselves better over others."

Scowling, Caroline huffed. "So I suppose eavesdropping is alright for you to do then?"

Taking a step toward her, to further illuminate his superior height and strength Optimus was now purposely trying to intimidate Caroline, which was clearly working from the way she stepped back. Lowering his already thunderous tone to an even lower, more menacing level Optimus growled. "I only involve myself in the conversations that concern me…or those I care about."

Caroline was quiet for some time and in that time she would not look at Optimus. But then she suddenly started to laugh. Looking back up at Optimus, she smiled in a more mocking tone. "You know something, Optimus, I'll be perfectly honest in saying I don't like you."

"It's bad enough that my daughter had to go and lose the perfect husband, but now is staring to settle on a …."

Suddenly she grew quiet having caught herself and shrugged with the same stuck-up smile she had before. "….man like you."

Keeping his expression the same, Optimus said nothing. Words to him were just those…words. After all, Optimus had had a lot of practice at keeping a consistent facial expression when facing down Megatron countless times. And at this point to be perfectly honest with himself, Caroline was starting to look like the perfect female counterpart for Megatron.

Closing in toward Optimus, Caroline smiled and whispered. "Your kind is not welcome in my family, and if you were wise, you would be long gone and out of my daughter's life by the end of the night."

At that moment, Optimus concluded that this woman and Megatron were long lost spark mates.

Slowly Optimus approached Caroline looking down at her. He then kneeled down so that they were eye level and lowered his voice to the most ominous level his voice would reach all night. "I don't know what kind of a man you think I am Mrs. Helms, but this much I am certain of; never in my existence have I ever been the kind of male to back down or away when someone tries to intimidate me to do so. If you truly believe that I'm going to be frightened by you…then you are greatly mistaken."

Optimus slowly rose to his full height and began to turn away but then suddenly stopped and glared over his shoulder. "Not you or anyone else can deny me my right to court Jacklyn. The only one that can terminate our relationship is Jacklyn or myself. So if you do not mind, stay out of our business."

Optimus then turned away leaving Caroline utterly speechless. Optimus knew very well now that Jacklyn's mother at this very moment probably hated his guts now.

…

Turning the corner Optimus suddenly came face to face with Jacklyn who had her arms crossed. Optimus was quiet waiting for Jacklyn to start scolding him but instead was greeted in a warm gentle smile.

She then suddenly took his hand in hers. "Come with me."

Slowly Jacklyn led Optimus through the kitchen into the backyard where Cole and two other boys about Cole's age were playing. The only thing about the two boys was that they looked almost identical.

Looking at Cole she sighed. "Cole, why don't you, Kegan and Christopher go play inside for a while. Dinner is almost ready."

Looking at the two boys accompanying him, Cole nodded. "Okay mom."

Optimus watched as Cole and the other two boys slowly ventured past them into the house.

As soon as they were gone, Jacklyn slowly led Optimus under the willow tree by the pond. Taking both of Optimus' hands in hers, she looked him up and down, then smiled with her eyes glistening. "Why did you do that?"

Tilting his head slightly Optimus smiled. "What?"

Gently caressing his left arm she swayed, avoiding his eyes. "Why did you say those things to protect me?"

Looking away, Optimus was quiet but then he smiled turning his head back, looking Jacklyn over. "Whether or not you are aware of this Jacklyn, I am starting to grow quite fond of you."

Tilting her head with a smile, Jacklyn sighed. "Really?"

Realizing what he had just said, he cursed himself and smiled sheepishly. How could he have said that?! THAT of all things!

Suddenly Jacklyn laughed and brushed the locks of hair out of his eyes. "You know…you look really cute when you're flustered." Then she leaned forward and gently kissed Optimus on the cheek lovingly. "I like that about you."

Looking at Jacklyn Optimus had to laugh at the fact that Jacklyn was looking away blushing.

Smiling sheepishly, Optimus couldn't believe that she actually kissed him. Even if it was on the cheek, it was still a kiss. And now he was wondering if he shouldn't kiss her back. But not on the cheek. No. He should kiss her on the lips.

Should he?

Yes.

Yes he should.

Leaning forward Optimus gently brushed the hair out of her eyes. She stared up at him waiting, almost as if she knew what he wanted. He leaned toward her their lips almost touching. The adrenaline between them coming to a boil as the energy between them grew more intoxicating. He was going to do it. He was going to kiss her. The moment was here.

Without warning the back door swung open and a blond young woman was standing there, calling. "Jacklyn I need your help with – oh my…"

Both Optimus and Jacklyn suddenly looked up, then looked at one another, then looked away feeling a little silly. The moment was there, and then within the same amount of time, it was gone.

Rubbing the back of her head, releasing a nervous cough, she turned her attention to the woman in the doorway. "What's the matter Virginia?"

Virginia was quiet for a moment then motioned to both Optimus and Jacklyn. "Was I interrupting something here?"

Both Optimus and Jacklyn glanced at one another before Jacklyn looked back to Virginia and shook her head. "No. We were just talking."

Virginia smiled crossing her arms smiling. "Somehow I doubt that." She then suddenly unfolded her arms and became quite chipper. "Regardless, I was kind of wondering if you wouldn't mind doing me a favor and help me make mom's cherry marshmallow salad."

Passing a glance to Optimus with some annoyance in her eyes, she then looked at Virginia and nodded. "Yeah, okay. I'll be right in."

Turning away, Virginia reluctantly ventured back inside, closing the door behind her.

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn sighed loudly rolling her eyes. "So it begins."

…

After Optimus and Jacklyn ventured back inside Optimus had to stop suddenly as the two same boys ran past him barely missing him by a hair. They both knew they had barely missed the stranger that had come with their aunt but had paid no mind. Instead they continued on their way and bolted into the dining room.

Looking up Optimus saw Jacklyn motioning him over toward the living room. He obliged by walking over, and joining her in the open archway that was the entrance to the living room.

Gazing at Optimus, Jacklyn smiled and nodded reassuringly before slowly walking away, leaving Optimus to watch over the room with people in it. There were many people conversing and mingling with one another. Most were just talking but some were being roughly, laughing loudly and using their hands and arms in making outrageous gestures.

Optimus had to chuckle somewhat at this. In all essence, humans obviously…express…their emotions a bit more abruptly then what the Autobots he knew did.

Just then a man started to approach him. He was fairly tall; for human standards, and was wearing a green dress shirt with brown kakis pants and dark brown dress shoes. He had dark red hair and bright blue and green eyes. Eyes like Jacklyn's. With a smile on his face, the man held out a friendly hand. "You must be Optimus."

Taking the hand graciously, Optimus nodded. The man beamed as he gestured to himself. "The name's Johnathan.. I'm Jacky's eldest brother."

Smiling Optimus chuckled lightly. "It is truly a pleasure to meet you Johnathan."

Johnathan laughed shaking his hands. "Please, just call me John."

Optimus smiled and nodded respectively.

Putting his hands in his pockets, John turned to stand beside Optimus and convey the scene that Optimus was also currently taking in. For a moment they're quiet until John turns to Optimus suddenly smiling. "So, are you enjoying the party so far?"

Looking around Optimus shrugged and even slightly yawned. "I am one who usually strives to welcome new experiences, but…it does pose some difficulty when you do not know everyone present."

Laughing, John then without warning slapped a hand on Optimus' back.

Looking up out of surprise, Optimus watched John who now was beaming with excitement.

John just premed with this look of mischief, and sighed. "Optimus my friend, by the end of the night you will know everyone here. That I promise."

John then grabbed Optimus, leading him by the shoulders into the crowded living room and thus, the informal introductions began.

Pointing over to the red velvet lazy chair nestled by the fire place, John explained that – that was Uncle Gary, his mother's eldest brother. The two women across from him on the love seat were Gary's sisters Louis Jean and Mary Sue.

Just then the two same boys that nearly plowed into Optimus earlier ran past once again. Laughing, John beamed with pride while at the same time trying to hide a playful snicker. He motioned to the two identical boys smiling. "Those two are just two of my three monsters, my twin boys Christopher and Kegan."

John then motioned to another boy sitting on another couch who was playing on his phone. "That one there is Jake, he's my eldest son."

Taking Optimus by the shoulders again, John sighed smiling. "Now, what do you say I introduce you to the women folk who at the current moment are probably congregating in the kitchen?"

Just as they turned the corner, the two of them stopped and watched. John chuckled and stood beside Optimus pointing to everyone in the room to whom he was talking about.

Motioning over to the counter, John sighed. "The blond one over there standing by the counter next to Jacklyn is Virginia. She's the second youngest out of all of us kids."

Optimus smiled nodding slightly. "We had a brief introduction earlier."

Smiling John nodded and motioned over to the island. "The brunette cutting up vegetables is my sister-in-law Lindy, she's Eric's wife."

Just then without missing a beat, John puffed out his chest and grinned lovingly. "And that beauty standing next to Lindy with the long black hair and gorgeous pregnant belly is my wife, Matilda."

Scowling, the very much so pregnant woman held out a rubber spatula directed at John. "Johnathan Leon Helm, if you don't stop flaunting MY pregnancy, I'm going to take you out back where there are no witnesses and beat the ever-living shit out of you!"

Just grinning, John casually walked into the kitchen and wrapped his arms protectively around Matilda. "What? I can't have any pride in saying that my wife is almost eight and a half months pregnant with my child?"

Looking away almost pouting, Matilda huffed. "And what if the baby is not yours, hmm?"

Just then John made the gesture of choking and literally fell on the floor, blaring out loud 'you have crushed my hopes and dreams woman!' over and over again.

Staring at the floor with an unchanged expression of un-amusement, Matilda huffed. "John, stop being such a drama queen and get your ass of the floor. I was kidding and you look ridiculous."

Sitting up John smiled. "I knew that. I just wanted to guilt you into telling the truth."

Rolling her eyes, Matilda sighed heavily and looked at Jacklyn. "The worst part about it is with the first few months, it was kind of cute…now…it's just annoying."

Jacklyn, Lindy and Virginia all started to laugh and crack up.

Looking at John who was still on the floor, Optimus sighed. "Just how many offspring do you have John?"

Looking at Optimus, Matilda sighed. "Too many, and they are all boys at that."

Standing up, John smiled and shrugged. "What can I say? I'm a lover, not a fighter."

Just then everyone except Optimus and Matilda burst into laughter.

Looking at Optimus, Matilda smiled and leaned forward, gently patting Optimus on the chest since she was too short to reach his shoulder. "At least someone doesn't laugh at me when I'm the size of a house."

Squeezing Matilda ever so slightly while rubbing his nose against her cheek, John laughed playfully. "Will you stop calling yourself fat? Because you're not. "

Rolling her eyes, Matilda looked away and blushed. Then looking back at John, she laughed quietly and pushed her face into his neck. "I hate you."

Chuckling John rocked Matilda in his arms, smiling broadly the whole time. "Oh but I LOVE you…"

Tilting his head, Optimus watched and even had to smile at the sight. These two humans were yet another fine example of how humans and Autobots were alike. Both possessed the ability to love as well as the desire to be loved. And that was more than enough reason to smile.

Looking up John slightly jumped and cursed himself. "Oh geez, where are my manners! Optimus please let me introduce you to my wife, Matilda."

As Optimus stepped forward to shake Matilda's hand, John gestured to Optimus. "Honey, this is Optimus; Jacklyn's date."

Looking at Matilda, Optimus bowed his head respectively, greeting her with a warm smile and gentle reassuring eyes. "I am pleased to make your acquaintance Matilda."

Smiling Matilda did the same. "I'm very happy to meet you too Optimus. And please excuse my husband's obnoxious behavior. Sometimes he doesn't know when to quit."

Chuckling softly, Optimus waved dismissively. "It's quite alright, I do not mind in the least."

Walking up to Optimus, Jacklyn gently took him by the arm and rested against him. Looking down at Jacklyn Optimus smiled warmly. With the way she stared up at him now, was almost like saying that he was doing good. Or maybe the big green and blue eyes that were batting their eye lashes at him were trying to say something else. But what could she be trying to say?

Just then a short somewhat-young man with short spiked dark brown hair walked into the room and looked at everyone curiously. "What? Has the party moved into the kitchen?"

Moving closer to Optimus, Jacklyn chuckled. "No Eric, we're just having an introduction, that's all."

Looking at the tall gentleman standing by his sister's side, Eric raised a brow in curiosity and smiled. "Oh really? When was I going to be introduced?"

Looking and motioning to Optimus, Jacklyn smiled. "Eric, this is my boyfriend Optimus Prime."

Walking over to Eric, Lindy sighed. Eric just grinned and held out a friendly hand. "It's nice to meet you. Your name is Optimus Prime? Wow…that's defiantly a unique name that I've never heard before."

Optimus just chuckled, nodding. "I've heard that statement more often than you think."

Laughing Eric nodded. "I suppose so." Looking Optimus up and down, Eric just shook his head and marveled the man in front of him standing beside his five foot nine inch sister. "Hey buddy, don't take this the wrong way…but damn you're a big boy. What are you, six foot ten or just straight up seven foot?"

Shrugging, Optimus smiled. "To be honest, I don't have the slightest clue as to how tall I am."

Nudging Jacklyn gently Lindy giggled and whispered, so only Jacklyn could hear. "So…is it true what they say about guys with big hands?"

Narrowing her eyes slightly, Jacklyn snickered. "Yeah…they wear big gloves."

Both burst out in a fit of laughter, which Optimus turned to investigate. But instead of receiving an answer, he instead received glances from two woman keeping secrets. Shaking his head Optimus sighed. He wasn't quite sure he wanted to know.

Just then Caroline walked into the kitchen, surveying the scene. Everyone grew quiet.

Looking at Virginia, Caroline smiled. "How's dinner coming along?"

Shrugging with a smile, Virginia turned around to grab the crock pot that held the main course. "It's almost done. All we really need to do is just set the tables."

Caroline nodded in approval and turned to leave, but not before shooting and uneasy glare at Optimus.

Optimus' glance remained the same right up to the point where she walked out of sight.

Leaning over John grabbed Optimus and began to slowly pull him away. "Now is the appropriate time for the men to make themselves scarce."

Just then out of nowhere, a raw baby carrot flew through the air nailing John square in the back of the head. Both Optimus and John turned around to see Matilda standing there with her arms crossed and tapping a foot on the floor. "And just WHERE do you two think you're going?"

Rubbing the back of his head where the carrot had made its impact, John smiled sheepishly. "Somewhere other than here."

Grinding her teeth in frustration, Matilda raised a stalk of celery in her hand and wielded it over her head. "John, get your ass back in here and help set the table!"

Retreating in a gallop, John yelled over his shoulder. "Hell no, I won't go~!"

Within only a few seconds John was there and then he was gone again. Looking in the direction John had gone; Optimus snickered and shook his head. That human was defiantly…as the human saying goes: 'a different duck'.

Growling under her breath, Matilda glanced at Jacklyn and pointed to her pregnant belly. "Remind me after I have this kid that I need to castrate my husband."

Optimus stood in the doorway watching Jacklyn, Lindy, Virginia and Matilda all laugh hard. Optimus wasn't quite certain what the term 'castrate' meant, but by no means did it sound good.

Shaking the thought from his head, he stood up from his spot against the door frame and looked at Matilda. "Is there anything I can do to assist?"

Smiling at the same time as looking Optimus up and down, Matilda laughed loudly and turned to Jacklyn. "Hey Jackie, can I leave John here and take Optimus home instead?"

Looking over her shoulder Jacklyn huffed playfully. "No. I got him fair and square. You and John are stuck together. I forfeited all right to him the day you two got married."

Sighing Matilda gently petted Optimus' chest. "I was afraid you'd say that."

Jacklyn laughed softly and then approached Optimus with a stack of plates. "You can put these on the counter in the dining room where the silverware was put."

Matilda chuckled. "Do you rent him out?"

As Jacklyn and Matilda laughed, Optimus huffed and started to slink away. Perhaps he should have taken John up on that notion of vacating the premises. He was about half way out of the room when something hit him in the back of the head fairly hard.

Holding his head, Optimus suddenly looked down and saw a stalk of celery lying on the floor. Looking up, Optimus saw both Jacklyn and Matilda watching him with narrow, skeptical eyes. Both had their arms crossed.

Narrowing his own eyes, Optimus huffed. "Who did that?"

Letting smirks slide in on their faces, both Jacklyn and Matilda instinctively pointed on one another.

Looking away in a huff, Optimus sighed. "Females…"

You couldn't live with them, and you most certainly could not live without them.

…

…

Sitting next to Jacklyn, Optimus sat kicked back in his chair as he let his stomach settle from the previous meal. All the dishes from said meal were pushed out in front of him, waiting to be filled with yet another heaping helping, a course that Optimus probably would not eat.

The atmosphere at the time was anything but hostile. Everyone was gathered together. The children sat at a table of their own and were busily enjoying their deserts. The adults were by far finished with their meal and now were talking, laughing and enjoying each other's company.

Sitting across from Optimus at the table was John who also was pretty laid back, letting his stomach settle.

"So, Optimus what kind of occupational field are you in?"

A little surprised by the question, Optimus sat up resting his forearms on the table. "Beg your pardon?"

Chuckling, Jacklyn held Optimus' arm and smiled. "He's a soldier. A commander actually."

Leaning forward with her 15 month old baby in her arms, Virginia raised her brows in interest. "An army Commander? Really?"

Passing a glance to Jacklyn, Optimus sighed. "Previously. I was a commander…but…not anymore."

Also leaning forward, Matilda smiled. "What are you doing now?"

Jacklyn shrugged, smiling sheepishly. "Well, right now he's currently unemployed…but he is looking."

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus was quiet. He wanted to ask Jacklyn about that statement, but considered that with Caroline within hearing distance, perhaps he should just remain silent.

Not that any of that mattered.

Caroline noticed the quick glance Optimus had given and huffed loudly. Almost everyone at the table turned their attention to Caroline who was watching Optimus and Jacklyn with prowling eyes.

Looking up the table at her mother Jacklyn sighed. "What mom?"

Shaking her head, Caroline smiled smugly. "Well…that verifies one assumption."

Also looking up the table, Matilda lowers her voice slightly. "And what assumption would that be Caroline?"

Continuing to stare at Optimus, Caroline smiled more arrogantly then before. She then looked at Jacklyn, almost disgusted. "Somehow I suspected that you're little… 'boy-toy' was living off of you scot free. I guess he's more like the others than you want to admit, huh Jacklyn dear?"

Slamming her hands down on the table, Jacklyn stood abruptly. She opened her mouth to speak but no words came out. She stood there scowling, her eyes starting to turn red from the building tears she was so desperately trying to hold back.

Looking up, Caroline smiled and waited. "Is there something you want to say dear?"

Looking away, Jacklyn hissed and mumbled under her breath.

Looking down the table at Caroline, Lindy snarled. "I'm sure what she wants to say to you would not be appropriate for the children to hear, Caroline."

Standing up John scowled harshly and barked. "Mom how can you be so damn cruel to Jacklyn?! Just because Optimus can't find a job doesn't make him a bum, it just makes him like countless other Americans struggling in this economy."

Sitting back down, John looked at Jacklyn who was still standing but looking away. Then, looking at her mother Jacklyn slid her chair out, got up and left the room.

Standing again John started to say her name but stopped.

Soon after, a loud bang from the front door echoed through the house and everyone was silent.

Standing, Optimus sighed and looked up, almost all eyes were on him now.

Staring directly at Caroline, Optimus scowled and sighed. "Please excuse me for a moment."

Moving quietly through the hallway, Optimus quietly opened and closed the front door. It was late afternoon now. The shadows of the trees were beginning to loom onto the yard and there was a slight breeze rising. Looking out off the veranda into the driveway, Optimus saw Jacklyn standing with her left side to the truck and her face was away from him.

With a heavy sigh Optimus smiled and ventured down the stairs toward her. As he got closer, he could clearly hear her sobbing softly.

Walking up beside Jacklyn, Optimus gently rested a hand on her shoulder and spoke softly. "Jacklyn, are you alright?"

Looking up suddenly, Jacklyn quickly turned away to wipe her eyes. "Yeah…yeah I'm okay."

Walking around to look at her from the front, Optimus kneeled slightly to somewhat look her in the eye.

Looking up slightly Jacklyn watched Optimus for a moment. Optimus smiled warmly tilting his head to the side only to watch as Jacklyn turned her face away frowning.

Taking her chin in his hand, Optimus turned her face so she had to look at him.

He smiled and purred warmly. "Jacklyn…what is wrong?"

Jacklyn tired to look away as so to hide the tears beginning to fall from her eyes.

Pulling his hand away, Optimus let Jacklyn's head sag. She stared at the ground, saying nothing.

Optimus watched Jacklyn for some time before finally sighing heavily. Wrapping his arms around her in a tight embrace, Optimus cooed. "Jacklyn, if you're upset about what your mother said; don't be. She has no fathom over what she speaks of. She has no real comprehension of the relationship we share."

Leaning into his embrace, Jacklyn just sobbed, gripping Optimus' shirt tight, staining it with her tears. "I'm just so sick and tired of the criticism. Nothing I ever do is enough to please her! And I can't help but feel like a complete and utter failure in her eyes. I'm so tired of feeling like the outcast in my own family and I'm so tired of feeling like a failure at being a mom."

Resting her head against Optimus, Jacklyn started to cry…and she didn't stop.

Optimus heart at that moment started to ache. Seeing Jacklyn cry out of pain was pain itself. It wasn't fair that she had to go through this throbbing pain in her heart by herself. Resting his head on hers, Optimus gently rocked Jacklyn in his arms, letting her sob continuously to her heart's content.

Finally, Jacklyn looked up with red, puffy eyes and sniffed. "I'm so sorry Optimus."

Tilting his head, Optimus smiled. "For what?"

Wiping her eyes Jacklyn sighed. "For feeling sorry for myself and making you deal with it."

Watching Jacklyn look down and away, Optimus chuckled and smiled.

Pulling Jacklyn's chin up so she had to look at him, he smiled warmly. Her eyes were still red from the tears, but nothing could hide the way her blue and green iris' sparkled. Brushing the hair hanging in her face to the side, Optimus gently rested his forehead against Jacklyn's and said her name softly…almost fondly.

With her eyes wide open, Jacklyn watched Optimus. His dark sapphire blue eyes ppiercing her very soul, watching her every move with both fascination and concern. Looking into his eyes was like gazing into the bluest depths of the deepest ocean. They were so beautiful and their best ability was achieving instant seduction.

But to Optimus, it was Jacklyn's eyes that were gorgeous. The way the greens and blues in her eyes coincided in harmony making her eyes glisten like diamonds in the moonlight.

As Optimus gazed into those eyes a thought stuck him. He has been in this reality – he as been human now, for over 7 months and has been living with Jacklyn since that time. And never…ever in his life has he ever felt more content than this moment now. Seven months have come and gone and there had been no sign of Ratchet or the other Autobots. Maybe now was finally time for Optimus to accept the fact that they weren't coming.

That they were never coming.

The life of an Autobot was past him now. He was human and that was a truth he needed to accept. But in that realization, was there really any sorrow?

Yes, of course. Without him, how could he be certain that his Autobots would achieve victory over their enemies and bring everlasting piece to the universe?

That was a question that more than likely would never be answered. But one question could be answered.

If he was going to be forced to live out the remainder of his life as a human, who's to say he couldn't live a happy life with someone he cared about, and who cared about him in return? And at the moment the person who'd be most eligible for that was standing in front of him.

Tilting his head slightly to the side, Optimus gently brushed his nose against Jacklyn's.

Optimus knew that it was time to move on, and he had finally made his choice.

Smiling he purred gently in her ear. "Jacklyn, what your mother says, or what anyone else says does not matter. The only thing that matters is what you think of yourself."

Looking up Jacklyn raised her eyes with hope. "Oh Optimus…"

Nodding, Optimus cooed. "Yes. And if it's any consolation…I think you are wonderful."

Blushing slightly Jacklyn looked away smiling. "You really think that?"

Caressing his fingers against Jacklyn's cheek, Optimus cooed softly. "Yes I do. I also think that you are the most, charming, loving, sweet-hearted woman I've ever met."

Leaning in closer, so close that he could feel her steady breathing on his skin, Optimus whispered. "You know…we've been at one another's side for over seven months now. Seven…wonderful months. Why do we still lie to everyone including ourselves over the notion that we are courting one another?"

Looking up Jacklyn whispered back. "What are you saying Optimus?"

Brushing his nose against hers, Optimus chuckled softly. "We must stop denying each other what we know we each want."

Turning her head slightly, Jacklyn smiled softly. "And what is it you want Optimus?"

With a low purr emanating from his throat, Optimus gently brushed his lips against Jacklyn's throat. It was time for Jacklyn to know the truth…and time for him to face it head on.

Closing his eyes, Optimus whispered seductively in Jacklyn's ear. "All I want…is you."

Closing her eyes Jacklyn sighed. "Optimus…I…"

Leaning closer, Jacklyn rested her forehead against Optimus. "You don't want to get tangled up with me romantically."

Chuckling softly, Optimus shrugged. "Oh I think I do."

Looking up from his hand on her cheek, Jacklyn cringed. "Optimus, I have a bad record for relationships. Trust me when I say, you don't want to get tangled up in my crazy life."

Laughing Optimus shook his head as he pulled Jacklyn closer toward him. "Need I remind you that we've been with one another for—."

Huffing Jacklyn rolled her eyes. "I know, I know. Seven months." Suddenly laughing, she shook her head smiling. "God! How the heck did you deal with me for seven months?"

Smiling, Optimus shrugged playfully. "The last seven months have had their trials, yes, but in all honesty they have been nothing short of paradise."

Giggling, Jacklyn brushed a lock of hair out of her eyes. "You're saying that just to be nice; you don't really mean that."

Leaning in closer Optimus purred seductively. "If that is the case, then perhaps you'll think that my next gesture is just out of…kindness…"

At that moment, Optimus slowly leaned forward pressing his lips into Jacklyn's.

In the moments that followed, Optimus was lost in sweet serenity as their tongues twisted and entangled in each other's saliva, in a way that could be described like a strange exotic dance.

Wrapping his arms around Jacklyn, Optimus pulled her closer, almost completely engrossing his mouth in hers.

At that moment Optimus, was half expecting Jacklyn to push away, but instead Jacklyn slowly wrapped one of her arms around his torso while putting her free hand behind his head, actually pulling him closer. She ran her fingers through his hair admiring his warm lips against hers.

They only kissed for maybe a minute, but between them it felt like eternity.

Slowly pulling away, Optimus looked Jacklyn over fondly.

Then he realized what he had just done. He kissed her.

He KISSED Jacklyn. Oh scrap…what was she going to say? What was she going to do?

Sighing admiringly, Jacklyn smiled. "Wow…."

Looking up at Optimus in almost half a daze, Jacklyn grinned. "I had no idea you were such a good kisser."

Smiling, Optimus simply shrugged.

Laughing Jacklyn leaned in against Optimus and hugged him tightly. "Thank you Optimus…for making me feel better…about everything."

Nodding respectively, Optimus smiled. "You're very welcome."

Sighing heavily, Jacklyn leaned against the truck and huffed."I don't want to be here anymore Optimus; let's go home."

A moment of silence passed between the two of them. Optimus waited hoping to hear Jacklyn say something, but eventually sighed and turned away. "I'll gather Cole and Kira and have them ready to go shortly."

As Optimus turned away to leave, Jacklyn suddenly reached out grabbing his hand. "Optimus wait!"

Looking over his shoulder, Optimus saw Jacklyn holding his hand. Looking at Jacklyn's eyes, Optimus waited.

Smiling sheepishly Jacklyn sighed. "You know how you asked me if we could date for real?"

Optimus nodded.

Jacklyn smiled looking away, and then looked back at Optimus, eyes gleaming. "I would love to date you for real. No more hiding. No more lies. I want us; what we have, to be real."

A broad smile sneaked onto Optimus' face and he sighed in relief.

That's what he was waiting to hear.

Jacklyn smiled laughed awkwardly as she moved up beside Optimus. "Come on, lets go get the kids and go home."

…

…

…

Later that evening, Cole and Kira and Optimus sat at the island in the kitchen playing black-jack.

Looking at the cards in her hands, Kira beamed. "You better watch out Cole, I'm gonna get you!"

Rolling his eyes Cole huffed. "Don't get cocky Kira."

Optimus just chuckled watching the two of them, still trying to get a grip on the purpose of the game.

Walking into the kitchen in her scrubs, Jacklyn casually slipped her cell phone and pager into her purse. "Okay gang, I'm off to work. Cole, Kira be good for Optimus and do what he says."

In sync to one another, Cole and Kira agreed to their mother's wishes.

Leaning over Optimus' shoulder, Jacklyn smiled and gently kissed Optimus on the cheek. "And I will see YOU later."

Smiling in return, Optimus looked up and smiled. "I will be counting the milliseconds."

Chuckling, Jacklyn laughed as she planted a spider-man kiss on Optimus.

Cole and Kira both horrified, made a chorus of 'eww's' and 'yucks'.

Jacklyn pulled away slowly and smiled. "See you later."

Optimus smiled in return. "Bye."

Looking up Jacklyn beamed. "Bye guys."

Both Kira and Cole spoke. "Bye mom."

Within moments, the sound of the door shutting echoed through the apartment, and at that two pairs of eyes were glued on Optimus.

Looking up Optimus furrowed his brows at the sight of Cole and Kira staring at him in disbelief.

Shrugging, Optimus sighed. "What?"

In a shocked, excited huff, Cole smiled. "When were you going to tell us that you and mom are ACTUALLY dating now?"

Kira sat up on her seat grinning from ear to ear. "Yeah!"

Chuckling Optimus shrugged playfully. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Puffing out his chest, Cole beamed and pointed. "Lies!"

Chuckling Optimus shook his head and rose from his spot at the island. "Okay, you both got me. Yes your mother and I as of this afternoon are now officially courting one another."

Turning around in her seat, Kira peered over the back of the seat. "For real?"

Looking over his shoulder from the stove, Optimus smiled and nodded. "For real."

Looking at Cole, Kira grinned broadly. No words could describe just how happy she was feeling right now.

Looking at Optimus, Cole tilted his head. "So, does this mean you're staying?"

Turning away from the stove - where Optimus had just got done prepping the evening meal - Optimus looked up, smiled and then looked at Cole smiling. "Yes Cole, I guess this does mean I'm staying."

Slowly a small smile crept in on Cole's face and he looked down. "Cool…"

Smiling Optimus turned away and nodded.

Again, there were no words that really needed to be said.

…

Within an hour or two, Cole, Kira and Optimus had eaten and now where enjoying an hour of television before bed time when suddenly there was a knock on the door.

Looking at Optimus, Cole cocked his head and rutted his eye brows. "Who could that be at this time of night?"

Looking at Cole and then at the door, Optimus shook his head. "I do not know Cole."

Then there was another knock.

Moving Kira off of her place on his lap, Optimus rose and motioned to Cole and Kira to stay on the couch.

Opening the door slowly, Optimus was met by a short man with light brown hair, brown eyes and was dressed in a blue and grey business suit.

Looking the man up and down Optimus swallowed. "Can I help you?"

The man slowly looked past Optimus, then back up at him. "Is Jacklyn here?"

Slowly Optimus shook his head no. "No, she is working. Can I help you?"

The man gazed up at Optimus then again looked past him into the apartment. "Is Cole and Kira here?"

Lowering his gaze Optimus huffed. "I am not at liberty to discuss that to a complete stranger."

Staring up at Optimus angrily, the man scowled and jabbed a finger into Optimus' chest. "Who do you think you are?!"

Lowering himself and his voice Optimus snarled. "On the contrary, who do you think YOU are?"

Straightening up the man brushed his shirt off, reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a business card, handing it to Optimus.

Optimus looked at it, then looked at the man in the door way.

The man was smug and stood erect. "My name is Clay Wilson, and I'm here for my kids…"