Chapter 9: Seraphim

There was a long lapse of silence as Optimus and Clay, stood there passing glances at one another.

Optimus couldn't help but wonder, could this really be the man, the forsaken individual that cause Jacklyn so much pain and humiliation?

After a long sigh, the man adjusted his tie and narrowed his eyes. "Let me guess, you're the babysitter?"

Tightening his lips together, Optimus clenched his teeth, for what reason he really didn't know. Clay smiled tilting his head looking Optimus over. "Or are you just the poor sucker that felt sorry for her?"

Huffing slightly Optimus crossed his arms, pulling them into his chest. "And just what is that supposed to mean?"

Laughing, the small man looked away, then back still smiling in an uneasy manner. "A word of advice friend- from one man to another-don't let that cunt sucker you in to thinking that she loves you or has any kind of feelings for you. She's the kind of woman that will bat her pretty little eye lashes just to pull you in to her poor pathetic illusions."

"Shut up."

Flinching suddenly in surprise, Clay moved back, watching Optimus' eyes which where growing dark and unforgiving. "Don't…ever…speak of Jacklyn that way…around me."

Glancing quickly over his shoulder Optimus' voice remained low. "Cole, escort your sister and go to your room. Stay there until I tell you to emerge."

Looking up from the couch, Cole stumbled in confusion. "B-But Optimus, I—."

With almost a slight growl, Optimus hissed. "Go now."

It was unclear to Cole as to why Optimus had changed so suddenly, but with the tone of his voice being what it was, he wasn't about to argue.

Jumping off the couch, Cole gently grabbed Kira's hand. "Come on Kira, lets go play in my room for a while."

With an equal amount of confusion, Kira stumbled over her words. "Oh…okay…"

"Colleton James…"

Looking up Cole suddenly saw a familiar face, and from that fell silent. Clay smiled and kneeled. "Hey champ, long time no see."

At that moment, Cole looked as though he had seen a ghost. His face grew pale and white as a bed sheet. Standing before him was a man that he has not seen in little over five years.

Kira has never seen him at all.

This was the man that abandoned his mother…that abandoned him …all for another woman...for another life.

Trying to move forward past Optimus, Clay tried to advance into the apartment. "Come on Cole, it's me. It's dad. Don't you remember me? And Kira—."

Holding out a hand Clay forced a smile. "Do you know who I am Kira? I'm your da—."

Suddenly a strong grip shoved Clay back out into the hallway. Regaining his train of thought, Clay looked up at Optimus only to see he was blocking him from entering the doorway.

Again looking over his shoulder Optimus spoke to Cole. "Cole, take Kira and go to your room now."

Forcefully pulling Kira away Cole sighed. "Come on Kira—."

Looking up Kira hesitated. "But…I-I…"

Pulling her into the hallway Cole growled. "Come on."

"Coleton."

Cole stopped for a brief moment before moving down the hallway into his room with Kira. The whole time not saying another word.

Clay clenched his teeth, then forcefully tried to move past Optimus but again was denied. "Colleton James I am talking to you!"

Suddenly a door slammed shut.

Turning his attention away from Cole to Optimus, Clay shoved himself away and held a fist. "Listen you son-of-a-bitch, just who the hell do you think you are?!"

Tightening his fists at his sides, Optimus growled. "I could conceivably ask you the same, Clayton Steamstra."

Chuckling, Clay huffed. "So…the whore told you about me huh? Funny…she didn't really tell me a whole lot about you."

Turning away slightly, Optimus tried to ignore but kept his eyes entrenched on Clay. "Just what is it you came here to retrieve?"

Clay rolled his eyes. "I already told you. I came to get my kids. So…if you don't mind, move out of my way."

Slowly clay started to approach only to be cut off by Optimus' mass. "I am afraid I cannot allow you to take such actions."

Looking up at Optimus Clay huffed again. "Look buddy, I really don't want this to get any messier than what it has to. Just stand aside and let me take what's rightfully mine."

Placing his rather large arm in front of Clay's face, blocking him from entering. Optimus again let his ominous voice rumble up from his chest. "I cannot condone such actions. Unless you can show me legitimist permission from Jacklyn herself, I will not permit you to take the children."

Growling Clay barked at Optimus. "They're my children too dammit! I don't need any god-damn permission to take them!"

Just then Clay without warning shoved Optimus back. "Give me my kids now, and this won't get ugly."

Loosening his tie, Clay smiled. "You may be big and may look rather tough, but I took over eight years of karate lessons as a kid. So don't make me kick your ass."

Looking Clay over Optimus sighed. "I am not going to fight you Clayton."

Slowly approaching with his hands up defensively, Clayton laughed. "What's the matter Old timer, don't want to get your hands dirty? Or do you not want to throw out that fragile back of yours?"

Biting his tongue, Optimus huffed, this guy was officially starting to get on his nerves. "I don't want to hurt you."

Rolling his shoulders, Clay laughed mockingly. "What? Being with Jacklyn make you soft?"

Dropping his hands down Clay pointed a finger at Optimus. "Didn't you ever stop and wonder just WHY Jacklyn could never hold a steady relationship? Did you ever wonder WHY she and I got a divorce?"

Lowering his gaze Optimus growled. "I know why you and Jacklyn got a divorce. You were unfaithful to her. You chose another woman over her and your child."

Shrugging, Clay casually rolled his eyes. "You know what; yeah…you're right on that part. I did cheat on Jacklyn. And you know what else…I didn't feel guilty doing it. But that was only because once we got married and started having kids, she got boring. My life got boring. I was never the kind of guy who liked the whole idea of settling down and staying in one place. But my mistress had other plans. She wanted to see the world…and so did I."

Growling out loud, Optimus huffed. "But how could you do that to Jacklyn, to Cole? They loved you more than anything and you merely threw it away as if it held no importance! That being said, If you were so willing to leave them then, why the sudden urgency to have them now?"

Shaking his head Clay glared. "What difference does it make to you? Why do you care? What does ALL OF THIS mean to you?!"

Just then Optimus yelled at Clay, in an extremely ominous tone. "It means EVERYTHING to me!"

Just then Clay fell quiet, watching in disbelief.

Optimus also fell silent, but then stared Clay down with a cold steady glare. "You hurt these children and Jacklyn in a way that no individual should ever be injured. For that, you will not be given my sympathy but instead will feel my wrath. If you so much as consider the notion that I'm letting you pass into this apartment, you are sorely mistaken."

Lowering his gaze even more, Optimus snarled harshly. "If you so insist on fighting me to get them, then I must warn you that I will only restrain my abilities so much."

Rolling his eyes Clay sighed. "You really wanna do this gramps? I wouldn't want to hurt you."

Optimus stood there for several moments before finally sighing heavily while turning away to move back into the apartment. "Just go back to your mistress Clayton and leave us be in peace."

Optimus was not going to fight this man, no matter how much he may make emotions stir. No matter how much he admittedly would have liked to teach Clay a lesson or two for what he had done to Jacklyn, there was just no way he was going to appear as the weaker link and fall victim to Clay's taunting. He was the wiser individual here. He knew when and where was the right time to fight, and right now—

Just then, Optimus felt a fairly large mass ram into his back forcing him to go down. Looking up Optimus saw Clayton scramble to his feet, trying to make his way into the apartment.

Gritting his teeth together, Optimus huffed.

—right now, was the PERFECT opportunity for a fight.

Grabbing Clayton suddenly by his ankles, Optimus managed to bring Clayton tubling down onto his stomach. The impact made a loud thud, shaking the pictures on the wall by the door.

The two stood up staring at one another, waiting for the other to make the first move.

Optimus, using strategy immediately took a defensive position between Clay and the hallway that led to Cole's door. There was no way in the pits of Kaon that Optimus was going to let this pit-forsaken individual past him near the children.

Glaring Clayton rumbled. "Get out of my way."

Optimus returned the gesture. "Never. Not so long as I have blood running through my veins."

Shrugging Clay smiled forcefully. "Have it your way grandpa."

Just then Clay suddenly charged Optimus with his fist above his head ready to lay a blow to Optimus' face, a fist that Optimus caught without strife in mid swing.

Clay stood there in disbelief as Optimus held his fist that was pushing all of his strength without having to break a sweat or make any effort at all.

Pushing Clay away Optimus snarled again. "Don't make me do this Clayton."

Grabbing a vase off of a counter near the door, Clayton charged again screaming out of anger. Swinging it hard, the vase shattered over Optimus' head, breaking into several small shards of ceramic clay.

The room grew eerily quiet as Optimus fell to a knee holding his head. A piece of clay had lodged itself into his head and he could feel the warm, oozing flow of blood escaping from the wound.

Slowly Optimus stood to his full height and stared down at Clay with threatening disapproval. "Very well Clayton. If you wish to fight…"

Out of sheer desperation, Clay again charged with his fists ready to lay a few blows when Optimus suddenly planted a half charged fist into his stomach.

Cracking his neck Optimus scowled and with swift reflexes gripped Clay's neck.

Clay immediately grabbed Optimus' hand and desperately tried to pull it away.

Slamming Clay against a wall Optimus closed in so that their faces were mere inches apart. Optimus eyes stared Clay down looking him over. Leaning ever-so-slightly, Optimus snarled. "Don't ever come here again. That is the only warning you will ever receive."

With that Optimus dropped Clay to the floor letting him breathe hard and cough from having almost choked. Picking Clay up by the collar of his shirt, Optimus dragged Clay out into the hallway into the elevator. Dropping him in the elevator, Optimus turned away and pressed the button for the first floor.

As he walked out Optimus glanced over his shoulder once again and huffed. "That is the only warning you will ever receive."

Optimus then stood there and watched as Clay sat on the elevator floor with eyes of awe and horror as the elevator door slowly slid shut.

Once the door was shut, and the elevator was going down, Optimus sighed in relief and rubbed his aching head, groaning to himself in pain. This was one heck of a headache.

…

…

…

Opening the door casually, Jacklyn sighed throwing her keys on the small table beside the door. "Optimus, I'm home." But instead of hitting the table like usual, her keys hit the over turned table and fumbled to the floor.

Just then she stopped and looked around in awe. "What the hell?"

Looking around, the entrance and part of the living room looked as though a tornado had gone through it. Pictures had fallen off the wall. A vase was shattered; there was water on the floor, flowers everywhere, even blood on the floor.

Just then a soft groan emanated from the kitchen where a light was on.

Looking up Jacklyn swallowed hard and slowly walked toward the kitchen,

Upon entering, she was a bit more than surprised to see the sight that took place.

Seated up on the island table, Kira was holding an ice pack against Optimus' head. Optimus was seated at a chair leaning into the ice pack Kira was holding and Cole was standing on a stool beside Optimus holding a towel on the back of his head.

Smiling sheepishly Cole shrugged. "I'm sorry Optimus. I didn't mean to move the towel."

Looking up Kira smiled sheepishly. "Hi mommy."

Just then Cole and Optimus also looked up.

Jacklyn remained quiet before speaking slowly. "W-What happened?"

Kira sighed looking at the ice pack in her hand. "Opmus got into a fight mommy."

Putting her purse down, Jacklyn sat next to Optimus watching him. "A fight? What kind of fight? With who?"

Readjusting the towel slightly, Cole sighed. "Mom…he got into a fight…with Clay…"

Looking up, Jacklyn couldn't believe what she was hearing. "What?! Your dad? What the hell was he doing here?!"

Looking up from the ice pack Optimus groaned. "I wish to know the same."

Putting a hand on Optimus' shoulder, Jacklyn sighed softly. "You're not hurt, are you Optimus?"

Leaning up from the ice pack, Optimus smiled. "I am alright. The children just insisted, and I could not say no."

Coughing loudly, Cole pointed to the back of Optimus head. "He's not as alright as he says he is mom."

Getting up, Jacklyn moved to look at the back of Optimus' head and gasped seeing the towel full of blood. "Oh God Optimus, I'd imagine that THAT must hurt a little."

Looking out of the corner of his eye, Optimus raised his brows. "What is it Jacklyn?"

Looking at Optimus and then at his scalp, Jacklyn sighed then turned to Cole. "Go get my First-Aid kit out of my closet please."

Jumping down off the stool, Cole sighed. "You got it mom."

Looking up again, Optimus raised his brows in curiosity. "What's wrong?"

Gently turning Optimus head around while putting the towel back on his head, Jacklyn sighed softly. "You've got a piece of ceramic clay logged in your scalp. It's kind of deep so you might need stitches."

Looking up yet again, Optimus tightened his face with uneasiness. "I take it that's bad."

Turning his head back around suddenly, Jacklyn growled. "Sit still, will you?"

Cringing in pain Optimus let out a soft groan. Cringing herself, Jacklyn rested a hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry. Just…try not to move so much, okay?"

Nodding very slowly Optimus sighed. "As you wish…doctor."

Laughing Jacklyn smacked his shoulder. "I'm not a doctor smart one…I'm a nurse."

Smiling to himself Optimus sighed. "Very well nurse Helms."

Chuckling Jacklyn shook her head as she let her gaze drift to Kira. "shouldn't you be in bed? It's way past your bed time young lady."

Jutting her bottom lip out, Kira pouted. "But mommy, Optimus was hurt!"

Nodding Jacklyn smiled. "I know. I know. You did good. I'll make sure Optimus feels better, you go to bed now."

With a loud grumble, Kira carefully climbed down off the table, leaving the ice pack and moseyed away to bed.

Moving past Kira as she walked out, Cole came in with a large red duffle bag; one that he let hit the floor with a soft thud. "Here's your first-aid kit mom."

Nodding Jacklyn smiled. "Thank you sweet heart. Now, why don't you go to bed, like I said to Kira, it's way past your guy's bed times."

Pleading with his eyes, Cole gestured to Optimus. "But mom, Optimus is still hurt! I can't just—."

Holding a hand up Jacklyn smiled. "It's okay Cole, you did more than enough for Optimus and I'm sure he really appreciates it. But right now I'm going to have to stitch up the wound, and I don't think you'd really like to watch. Besides, if you stay up then you know your sister is going to want to stay up too."

Kneeling Jacklyn held Cole by the shoulders and looked him in the eye. "You did more than enough. Now it's my turn to help Optimus, okay?"

Pouting with his brows ruffled slightly, Cole nodded with a sigh. "Okay mom."

Looking up Cole sighed again. "I'm sorry that you had to get hurt Optimus. Clay wasn't fighting very fair."

With a soft, forgiving chuckle, Optimus lowered his head. "Do not blame yourself for what took place Cole. You could not have controlled your father's actions. Besides, the injury is not as bad as what it may seem."

Looking away Cole closed his eyes tightly and hissed. "He's NOT my dad. "

Slowly Cole moved out of the kitchen into the hallway.

Raising a hand after Cole, Jacklyn whimpered softly. "Cole…"

A door just then quietly shut and the room fell silent.

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus eyes beamed confusion as well as concern. "I said something I shouldn't have."

Releasing a deep sigh Jacklyn shook her head as she turned Optimus' head back around. "No you didn't. You didn't know."

Kneeling down beside Optimus to the duffle bag on the floor, Jacklyn pulled out a large brown bottle of liquid, a roll of thin string and a long, thin plastic case of some kind. Setting the objects on the table, Jacklyn then quickly moved to the sink grabbing a clean wash cloth.

Running it under warm water and then ringing it out, Jacklyn moved back behind Optimus and removed the towel from his head.

With a sigh Jacklyn shook her head. "The wound isn't as bad as what it may have looked like at first, but the cut is still deep enough that it's going to require some stitches."

Furrowing his brows Optimus turned his head slightly. "Stitches?"

Turning his head back around yet again, Jacklyn huffed. "Stop turning your head. You don't have to make this any more difficult you know."

Gazing downward Optimus mumbled an apology. Sighing again, Jacklyn laughed. "It's okay…just…try to sit still okay?"

Taking the dampened town, Jacklyn gently dabbed around the wounded area to clean away any stray pockets of blood as well as find the shard of clay still lodged in his scalp. Letting a quiet "ah-ha" escape from her mouth, Jacklyn grabbed for the small plastic case. Opening it, Optimus saw a series of small surgical tools like scissors, tweezers, needles and such.

Grabbing a small tweezers, Jacklyn moved behind Optimus' head and paused. "This might hurt a little."

Optimus didn't move at all nor said a word. With a sigh, Jacklyn leaned forward with the tweezers and gently grabbed the shard on the tip and proceeded to pull it out.

Optimus did not flinch or make any indication of the removal of the shard being painful. He just sat there, gazing at the floor.

Putting the shard on the towel that now lay on the table, Jacklyn again cleaned the area thoroughly and then reached for the brown bottle.

Looking up out of the corner of his eye seeing the bottle, Optimus gazed at Jacklyn. "What is that liquid you are going to use on my wound?"

Unscrewing the lid Jacklyn smiled sheepishly. "It's iodine. Hurts like a bitch when you put it in a wound, but it will kill whatever dangerous bacteria may have moved in. We wouldn't want you getting an infection. And on top of all that the iodine will numb the skin around your wound, making the process of putting in the stitches far less painful."

Nodding ever-so slightly Optimus exhaled noisily. "Do what you must Jacklyn."

Slowly Jacklyn poured iodine over the wound on Optimus' head. Again Optimus made really no indication of it being painful with the exception of him flinching, and this Jacklyn could not see but could feel.

Smiling sheepishly Jacklyn chuckled hoarsely. "Sorry."

Optimus aid nothing but instead let out a soft indiscreet groan.

Reaching in the small plastic case again, Jacklyn gently pulled out a short silver needle. She then reached for the roll of string.

For the next fifteen minutes or so Jacklyn worked quickly at sealing the wound and then covered it with a small gauze pad.

Wiping her hands clean, Jacklyn yawned and smiled. "Well, that should heal within a few weeks. The stitches are biodegradable, so it will just dissolve into your blood stream. We'll have to change your gauze pad once every day to make sure you don't get an infection, but overall I think you're going to be just fine."

Looking up Optimus smiled gratefully. "Thank you Jacklyn."

Rubbing his shoulder warmly, Jacklyn smiled. "You're very welcome."

A brief moment passed where the two of them fell silent until finally Jacklyn sat down next to Optimus, looking at him and then at the table. "Why after five and a half years would Clay suddenly up and decide that he wants the kids now?"

With a shrug Optimus released a grunt. "I haven't the slightest notion. But he was quite persistent."

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn cringed. "I-I'm sorry you got hurt Optimus. Clay can be fairly abusive when he wants to be. Trust me, I know."

Smiling warmly Optimus shrugged. "It's quite alright Jacklyn. This by no means was the first time I've ever gotten hurt. I've been injured far worse than this before."

With a soft chuckle Jacklyn tilted her head in curiosity. "How?"

A small smile came onto Optimus' face as he was about to list a few examples, like the time he nearly froze to death in the arctic, or the time when he contracted the Cybonic plague or maybe about the time when he was stabbed by a duplicate of himself controlled by Silas, or even the countless times he and Megatron would become caught in ambitious battles of good vs. evil.

The smile on his face faded as the realization of these events came into thought. Optimus couldn't tell Jacklyn about these things. For one, Jacklyn would never believe him and or would think he was completely insane or two would believe him and then feel skeptical-if not frightened -to be with him. After being here for so many months and finally excepting what has become of him, there was no way he was going to allow his past to push away his potential future.

Looking away Optimus smiled sheepishly. "It's …not important."

Turning away slightly Jacklyn couldn't help but wonder…was Optimus really hiding something?

It wasn't really her place to ask, but after the whole incident of going out past Jasper Nevada was still- even seven months later- bugging her beyond all comprehension. True, Optimus like everyone else on this planet was entitled to his or her own secrets. After all we all have skeletons in our closets, but could it be that the secrets Optimus were hiding could ultimately put her and her family in danger?

As Jacklyn fought with herself over these troubling thoughts, Optimus couldn't help but feel those same stressing vibes.

Taking her hand in his Optimus cooed softly. "Jacklyn."

Looking up suddenly Jacklyn hesitated. Smiling warmly Optimus purred. "What is it that's troubling you so? You seem rather quiet."

Looking away Jacklyn again hesitated. They've been dating for what, only a day if that, and she wanted to ask him about his past? No…she wasn't going to make this mistake again. Not again. She wasn't going to push someone she cared about too far too soon. Optimus' secrets were just that. His secrets. When he was ready to talk about his past with her then she would listen intently. Until then, she would respect his privacy.

But there was something that she could ask about at this moment.

Looking up Jacklyn titled her head to the side curiously. "Why did you fight Clay anyway? Why didn't you just let him take Cole and Kira?"

Looking away for a moment, Optimus pondered the question, smiled, then looked back at Jacklyn. "Because I love Cole and Kira. If any harm were to come to them, I could never find forgiveness with myself."

For a moment, Jacklyn was speechless but soon found herself smiling warmly and fondly at him. "Really?"

Nodding Optimus chuckled. "Absolutely."

Pulling Jacklyn closer, so that her chair was next to his, he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her in against his chest. "Jacklyn…you, Cole and Kira are the only family I have now. You all are the only thing I have left to protect."

With a warm smile, Jacklyn leaned against Optimus' chest breathing quietly. "You don't mean that Optimus."

Leaning in closer Optimus gently brushed his nose against Jacklyn's cheek breathing slowly. "Oh but I do. I mean every word with the utmost sincerity."

There was a long lapse of time where Optimus and Jacklyn said nothing but instead merely enjoyed each other's company. Nothing really needed to be said.

Feeling the expansion and contraction of Jacklyn's lungs as she breathed slowly was comforting. This was a comfort Optimus had not felt in millennia.

Tilting her face upward towards Optimus' Jacklyn smiled and raised a hand to his cheek. Pulling him closer, Jacklyn gently rest her lips on Optimus' which he took without the slightest hesitation.

Just then Cole walked into the room and paused chocking in disgust. "Can't you guys take your PDA somewhere…not-so-public?"

Turning around simultaneously, Jacklyn and Optimus both smiled. Resting her hand on the back of the chair she tilted her head smiling suspiciously. "Shouldn't you be in bed young man?"

Shrugging casually, Cole stumbled into the kitchen venturing toward the cupboards. "I got thirsty."

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn laughed. "Oh really? It might not have anything to do with the fact that you wanted to make sure Optimus was doing okay, would it?"

Wheeling around Cole scoffed. "No."

Raising an eye brow Jacklyn waited. Fiddling Cole looked away. "Maybe."

Smiling warmly Optimus rose to his feet and approached Cole. "I appreciate your concern Cole," Slowly Optimus kneeled to meet Cole's gaze. "But you know Cole, you really should not concern yourself about me." Putting his hand under Cole's chin, Optimus lifted his lowered eyes up to meet his. "I know it may be hard to believe, but I am much tougher that what I let on to be."

Smiling shyly Cole nodded. "I know."

Tilting his head Optimus raised a brow. "Really?"

Cole slowly nodded. "I know you were going easy on Clay when you were fighting him. You could have killed him if you wanted to, couldn't you Optimus?"

Passing a quick glance to Jacklyn who was watching curiously, Optimus sighed and looked back to Cole. "How did you know I was taking it easy on him Cole?"

Looking away, Cole fiddled with his fingers trying not to look Optimus in the eye. "When you told us to go to my room, I made Kira go in and I stayed in the hallway and watched."

Kneeling beside Optimus Jacklyn whispered. "Cole…"

Trying to hide the tears Cole looked away entirely. "I saw you try to walk away from Clay, and then I saw him run into you and then I saw you pull him down and…"

"Cole."

Cole continued to look away. Putting his hand under Cole's chin, Optimus pulled Cole's head up, making him look at him. "Cole…"

Looking up with red eyes Cole sniffed. "I heard what you said to him Optimus. A-And I want to know why you said it. Why?"

Optimus was quiet for only a moment before he laughed softly and pulled Cole in close, so that their foreheads were resting against one another's. "Cole, I said those things because whether you realize it or not, I do care about you…and your sister…and your mother. I know that your biological father caused you great pain and I do not want you to have to feel that pain ever again."

Slowly the tears started to swell in Cole's eyes as he looked Optimus' face over. His face remained gentle and sincere. He was telling the truth.

Without warning, Cole fell against Optimus and started crying hard, coughing and wheezing. His hands gripped Optimus' shirt tightly as he wept. His tears stained against the gray tint of Optimus' shirt.

Slowly Optimus wrapped his arms around Cole in a tight, warm embrace and cooed. "It's all right Cole. It's all right."

Blubbering Cole tried to speak from against Optimus but couldn't. Resting a hand on Cole's head, Optimus pulled him closer and sat on the kitchen floor, holding the weeping boy in his lap. "It's all right Cole. You can cry as much as you need to."

Jacklyn couldn't say anything. But still this was overwhelming warmness on her heart at seeing Optimus do this for Cole. None of her other potential boyfriends ever did anything like this for her kids, but Optimus did. Optimus was truly different from any other man she had ever known. He was unique.

Rising slowly with Cole in one arm, Optimus casually approached the cupboard and pulled out a glass and carefully filled it with water.

Cole had quieted down and now was merely sniffing.

Turning to Jacklyn, Optimus whispered softly. "I am going to take Cole back to bed."

Nodding Jacklyn sighed. "Okay. I think I'm going to bed too."

Nodding Optimus also sighed. "I will be to bed shortly."

Turning away, Optimus slowly treaded down the hallway into Cole's dark room. Gently sitting on the bed, Optimus turned to the night stand setting the glass of water on it. Wrapping both his arms around Cole, Optimus remained silent.

Looking up Cole sniffed. "Why are you so nice to me Optimus?"

Smiling Optimus gently brushed the hair from his eyes. "I already told you Cole. I care about you."

Slowly looking back down, Cole rested his head against Optimus and sighed tiredly. "Optimus, can I ask you something?"

Looking down, Optimus shifted Cole's weight in his lap. "Of course Cole."

Gazing off into the empty space of the room's darkness -not staring at anything directly - Cole sighed. "Why is this world so twisted? Why do people have to hurt one another the way they do?"

Looking at Cole and then at the same darkness, Optimus sighed gravely. "I cannot give an answer Cole, for I myself am not quite sure of the answer."

Pulling Cole closer, Optimus mumbled. "This whole universe is full of people who have hate and greed in their hearts. There are people who see a heinous act as being a condonable act. And then there are people who just chose to not see the universe's erroneous ways and instead choose to be blind to everything. But through all of the bad things in this world, there are still people who wish to do good…who wish to do the right thing and want to live an existence free of war and want everlasting peace."

Looking up at Optimus, Cole furrowed his brows. "How do you know that?"

Shrugging Optimus looked away. "It's not so much a matter of truth Cole, it's what I believe. It's what I have to believe." Looking down at Cole, Optimus' glance was grave. "You are not the first I have told this to, but…if we do not hold the belief that someone can change, then we can never truly achieve everlasting peace."

Looking away, Cole remained silent for a long time. Letting a soft groan escape his chest, Optimus looked up. "Do you want to know something Cole? Something I've never told anyone?"

Looking up Cole nodded slowly. Optimus stared at the wall for but a moment and then closed his eyes. "Many times in my life, I've considered the very same question you asked me. About why this universe is so twisted, and many times I found myself thinking I found the answer…the source of the twisted-ness. But in truth, I truly think that every one of us is the source.

Not one of us is the innocent contender in this mystery we call life. All of us in some shape or form have a burden to bear. But…when we come together, when all of us come together as one and learn to set aside our differences in attempts to understand each other a little bit better, only then can we all make a burdens a little lighter and easier to bear."

Cringing his jaw tighter, Cole looked up at Optimus. "Are you saying that I should forgive my biological dad for what he did to mom and Kira?"

Smiling Optimus shook his head. "Not exactly Cole. I'm not saying you should forgive him, but more or less forgive the past."

Tilting his head, Cole scowled. "What?"

Resting his hands on Cole's shoulders Optimus smiled warmly. "Everything that your father did to you hurt you. This much is true, and accepting him as your father now is a task that you find incapable of doing. I understand that. But if you continue to hold onto this anger against your father, you will find yourself beginning to suffer. Regardless of what your father may have done to you, you both still share blood."

Cole looked away still scowling.

"However—."

Optimus gently cuffed Cole's chin and rested his forehead against Cole's. "From what I've learned over the past few years is this; being a father is not measured by how many offspring you've sired, but rather over how you take care of them. Being a father is about how you take care of your children, how you love them, protect them, nurture them and teach them your values. For this, I can see why you don't accept Clay into your heart."

Cole looked away, letting a tear stream down his face.

Optimus wiped it away with his thumb and cooed. "I'm not saying that you have to accept your father's actions Cole, I'm merely saying as so to put your own heart at ease, that you respect them."

Looking up Cole cried out. "But how Optimus?! How can I respect them?!"

Pulling Cole into a tight embrace Optimus spoke softly. "That is something you are going to have to discover for yourself Cole."

Leaning into Optimus, Cole wrapped his arms around him, breathing slowly. "Optimus?"

Looking down at the child in his arms, Optimus purred softly. "Yes Cole?"

Looking up Cole smiled warmly. "I wish I had a dad like you."

For a moment Optimus was quiet but then he chuckled softly. "You do, do you?

Nodding Cole continued to smile as he fell against Optimus' chest. "I think you'd make an awesome dad."

Pulling Cole up into his arms into an even tighter embrace, Optimus chuckled. "And I think you would make a wonderful son."

…

…

…

After Optimus had finished turning off all the lights in the apartment, he couldn't but feel a sense of fulfillment. Cole was now sound asleep in his bed feeling emotionally at ease from the nights earlier strains. Though Optimus' head still ached slightly, that could easily be drowned out by the warmth in his heart.

Entering the bed room, Optimus was silent as to not wake Jacklyn up.

Closing the door slowly Optimus turned around to see Jacklyn sitting up in bed dressed in a large blue t-shirt.

The two stared at one another for some time, Jacklyn smiling the whole time.

Looking away quickly and then back at Jacklyn, Optimus shrugged. "What?"

Shaking her head, Jacklyn laughed. "Nothing."

Scowling slightly for but a moment, Optimus soon shrugged and stumbled over and sat on the bed with his back to Jacklyn.

Pulling her knees up to her chest, Jacklyn couldn't help but chew at her fingernails and smile as Optimus got undressed. He truly did have a very nice figure.

Casually pulling his pants and socks off, Optimus climbed into bed and groaned tiredly. "Jacklyn?"

Looking up at Optimus' face, Jacklyn pulled her hand away from her mouth. "Yes?"

Rubbing his eyes Optimus breathed in deeply. "How long has Cole had these feelings against Clay?"

Shrugging Jacklyn slowly fell down under the covers. "Ever since his dad left five years ago. Why?"

Looking away at the lamp on the night stand, Optimus huffed. "I believe that Cole had quite a bit of anger against Clay pent up inside his heart."

Rolling over to look at Optimus, Jacklyn lifted her eyes curiously. "Had?"

Gazing out of the corner of his eyes, Optimus nodded. "Yes. Cole and I took quite some time and talked about it. He expressed his emotions and now I think he's feeling quite better."

Nodding Jacklyn sighed. "I see."

Nodding Optimus looked forward across the bed and let his head fall against the headboard.

Looking Optimus over for a moment, Jacklyn smiled and caressed Optimus shoulder tenderly.

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus was greeted with a warm, tender smile. Furrowing his brows Optimus tilted his head slightly. "What?"

Jacklyn smiled as she shrugged casually. "I just wanted to thank you, for what you did for Cole. I'm sure it meant a lot to him."

Smiling in return, Optimus bowed his head respectively. "Cole needed me. I did what any responsible, caring adult would do."

Looking away Jacklyn continued to smile. "Perhaps." After a moment or two, Jacklyn quietly yawned and stretched. "Well, seeing as how it's almost two in the morning, I think it's about time we call it a night."

Nodding Optimus looked away, yawned and agreed.

As she laid down, Jacklyn indiscreetly stretched and curled up slightly.

Optimus couldn't help but wonder why Clay had decided that after five and a half years that now would be a good time to return and claim his biological children. What was the sudden urgency? None of it really made any sense.

Just then Jacklyn made a soft moaning noise and nudged Optimus with her foot.

Looking over, Optimus' could feel his face suddenly turned red from embarrassment at the sight of Jacklyn's under garments around her waist being exposed. She was wearing black silky, lacey undergarments that just barely hid certain parts that under most circumstances should remained unexposed.

Looking away Optimus slowly licked his lips and regained his thoughts, then looked again.

Cursing himself, he huffed and again had to look away. Why did he look again?!

This time he looked over and forced himself to gaze at Jacklyn's face.

Her eyes where closed but she was smiling.

Scowling Optimus cursed himself and let his attention drift back down to her waist.

Sighing heavily Optimus leaned over next to Jacklyn, reaching over top of her.

Opening one eye slightly Jacklyn watched…and waited.

Just then Optimus casually pulled the covers over Jacklyn, rolled over in his spot onto his side and turned the light off.

The room was now dark and quiet.

Rolling over to look at Optimus, Jacklyn sat up and huffed, thinking to herself in astonishment.

"That's a first."

…

…

…

When Optimus opened his eyes again, he was again in the same place where he was before. He was in the place where everything in the landscape was flat, barren, and white. The earth had not changed at all for it was still cracked, dry and lifeless. The purgatory in his mind had not changed at all since his last visit.

As he looked ahead he saw yet another somewhat familiar feature…the dying willow with no leaves and bark as black as death.

Breathing hard, Optimus slowly looked at himself only to notice that the only thing that had changed in his landscape was him. Unlike last time, when he had rested his hand on the tree to see he was his Cybertronian self, now as he raised his hand and gently rested against the tree, he saw a white flesh colored hand of a human staring back against the tree's black bark. He was human now? Why? Why was he human now?

Looking over into the dark pool of water, Optimus was greeted with the same human face that he had now come to know and recognize. But then, just like the last time, a drop of water suddenly fell from the tree's branches and rippled his reflection. When the water settled again, he no longer had a human's face staring at him, but instead the face that of an Autobot, of him as an Autobot. The scar that protruded his optic still – even this time—remained fully intact. .

Again the reflection's actions mimicked that of his own. But suddenly just like the last time, the figure was more than a reflection for it reached up and grabbed his human arm and refused to let go. The cold, metallic armor wrapping around his skin, freezing it on contact. It was again trying to pull him down under the dark cold surface of water.

Finally, his Cybertronian self succeeded and began pulling him down into the cold darkness. It once again wrapped it's suffocating grip around him. Everything grew darker the deeper they traveled. It eventually became so dark until there was nothing but black.

But then, suddenly there was something different from the last time.

There was a light. It was blue and green like that of a ground bridge portal…and there was a voice calling to him.

The voice was calling his name… and his name alone.

Then without warning he went through the light.

…

…

Opening his eyes suddenly, Optimus sat up and breathed hard. He was in a cold sweat even though the room was warm.

Laying back down Optimus sighed gravely and pulled a pillow over his head. Why was this dream continuing to taunt him so? What did it mean? What did any of it mean? None of it made any sense at all.

Pulling the pillow off of his face, Optimus slowly began to look around the room.

The shades as well as the windows were open for the sunshine was gleaming through the glass and the curtains flew gently in the breeze. The sounds of birds singing outside the window and the rustling sounds of the awakening city quietly echoed through the room. Sitting up, Optimus sighed and began to settle.

It was merely a dream.

Nothing more than a dream.

"Hey, look who's finally awake."

Looking over at the door, Optimus was pleasantly surprised to see Jacklyn leaning against the door way.

Smiling Optimus sat all the way up. "Good morning Jacklyn."

Returning the smile, Jacklyn casually entered the room and pulled the curtains open completely as so to let in the light. "Good morning to you too, Sleeping Beauty."

Squinting at the light, Optimus groaned and laid back down covering his head with the blanket covers.

Laughing Jacklyn shook her head and scoffed. "Oh I wouldn't do that if I were you."

Mumbling from under the covers, Optimus groaned tiredly. "And why is that, if I may ask?"

Looking out the door Jacklyn called out. "Okay Calvary, get him."

With their own separate battle cries, Cole and Kira came flying into the room and jumped up onto the bed onto Optimus.

With a loud grunt, Optimus looked out from under the covers only to meet Kira's face next to his own.

Laying on Optimus, Cole peered over so his face was next to Kira's.

Gleaming Kira grinned from ear to ear. "Good morning sunshine!"

Cole laughed and huffed. "Morning Putter… you're looking dapper."

Narrowing his gaze, Optimus huffed, said nothing, then quickly covered his head again.

Both Cole and Kira weren't going to allow that for he apparently had to wake up. It was almost nine thirty, and Uncle Johnathan and Aunt Matilda and their kids were coming for brunch.

Peering out from under the covers at Jacklyn, Optimus sighed. "John, Matilda and their children are coming for 'brunch'? When did this arrangement conspire?"

Smiling sheepishly Jacklyn shrugged. "Less than ten minutes ago."

Sitting up with Cole and Kira still on him Optimus yawned. "Really?"

Nodding Jacklyn continued to smile. "Matilda called earlier this morning and said she felt kind of bad for what happened the other day at the reunion and kind of wanted to spend some time with us before they started back for D.C. So, I suggested a late brunch."

Stretching as Kira climbed into his lap, Optimus sighed. "And when can we expect our guests to arrive?"

Just then there was a knock at the front door.

Turning to Optimus with an even more sheepish smile, Jacklyn shrugged. "Would you believe…right now?"

…

…

…

"I really am sorry about how mom treated you and Optimus, Jackie. It really wasn't fair at all."

Sitting down on the couch with a cup of coffee in his hand, Johnathan sighed. " I tried to talk to mom about it after you left but then 'you-know-who' had to get involved and give me the guilt trip."

Laughing sheepishly, Jacklyn walked out of the kitchen wiping her hands with a towel. "It's okay John. There's no use in you getting tangled up between the arguments that take place between mom and I."

Shrugging, Matilda leaned forward grabbing her glass of orange juice off the coffee table. "Still, your mother has no right to treat you or Optimus that way."

Sitting beside Optimus on the love seat, Jacklyn shrugged casually. "Maybe so…but through all of what happened yesterday—."

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn gently took his hand in hers and smiled looking at Johnathan and Matilda. "—some good defiantly came out of it."

Smiling John nodded and casually drank some of his coffee.

Smiling Matilda rested against the back of the couch. "Do I dare ask what?"

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn beamed. "Let's just say, we're a little more serious than what we were before."

Looking at John, Matilda just smiled and shrugged. "So…Optimus…what did you think of Caroline and her commentaries?"

Rolling his eyes, Optimus looked away. Laughing John rolled his shoulders back. "Don't worry about the whole being called a 'worthless-bum' thing. It's not any worse than what my mother said about Matilda when I first met her.

Looking up suddenly, Matilda slowly scowled at john. "What was it your mother said about me John? I for one would like to know."

Smiling sheepishly John quickly stood up and started for the kitchen. "A-Ah…W-What do you say we start serving brunch? I'm sure that Bacon Quiche and Ham egg bake are well on their way to being done."

Lowering her voice to an ominous level, Matilda growled. "Johnathan."

Stopping in mid stride John slowly turned around smiling sheepishly. "Honey, it's really nothing important, besides…that was years ago!"

Crossing her arms, Matilda continued to scowl.

Slumping slightly, John slowly started to walk back. "Matilda honey, It's nothing really that bad…I just said it was to make Optimus here feel better."

Tapping her fingers on her arm she continued to scowl.

Putting his hand up, Johnathan sighed, defeated. "Okay, okay so my mother called you 'no-good-trailer-park-trash' when I first met you. But do you honestly think I listened to her. NO. If I had, I wouldn't have married you and had three beautiful boys as well as one more beautiful child on the way."

Slowly rising off the couch Matilda continued to scowl.

The whole room fell quiet as Optimus and Jacklyn watched.

Slowly approaching John, Matilda maintained the scowl on her face until they were mere inches apart. Then, the scowl slowly disappeared and was replaced by a small smile. "I knew what your mother had said about me the first time we met. Jacklyn was the one that even told me. I just acted like I didn't know anything because I like seeing you come crawling back like a dog with his tail between his legs and sweat like a sinner in church."

John was speechless before he playfully scowled, grabbing Matilda in his arms. "You…are an evil woman. You know that?"

Smiling broadly Matilda laughed. "Oh I know. But you can be pretty evil yourself you know."

Johnathan beamed happily. "Oh I know."

Laughing Jacklyn huffed. "Oh why don't you two go get a room already?"

Johnathan chuckled loudly motioning to Matilda's pregnant belly. "we already did. How do you think we ended up with this?"

Slapping his hand, Matilda scoffed playfully. "John."

Watching John, Jacklyn and Matilda playfully joke with one another was to Optimus something long forgotten. He could barely remember the last time he had such a humorous conversation with other adults. Even as an Autobot, he rarely had time for fun and games unlike Bumblebee, Bulkhead or Arcee. Even Ratchet time and again was at one time or another playful with the children. But come to think of it, he never was. He spent the majority of his days either on patrol or monitoring the base's security both of which entailed high responsibility.

Now that he really came to thinking about it, admittedly he regretted not having spent more time with Ratchet and the other Autobots or even the children. Because now, the chances were quite slim that he would ever see them again.

Closing his eyes, Optimus could still see all their faces. Ratchet, Bumblebee, Arcee, Bulkhead, Smokescreen, Jack, Miko, Rafael , Ms. Darby and even Agent Fowler.

Opening his eyes again suddenly Optimus slowly stood up.

Looking over at him, Jacklyn hesitated. "Optimus, are you alright?"

Jacklyn, John and Matilda suddenly fell quiet.

Nodding Optimus forced the best smile he could. "Yes. I am quite alright."

"Would you all please excuse me?"

Moving away slowly, Optimus moved down the hallway into the bathroom, shutting the door and locking it behind him. Turning on the faucet, Optimus bent down letting the water run through his fingers.

Cupping his hands together Optimus splashed water in his face and breathed slowly keeping his eyes closed.

Even after seven months, the thoughts…the memories of his previous life would still not let him be.

Memories of Agent Fowler and his Autobots, of the children and Nurse Darby, of Megatron and the Decepticons, of Unicron and the Iacon relics ALL OF IT…simply would not leave him be…

Staring up into the mirror Optimus continued to breathe slowly.

His human self stared back at him, looking as though he was deeply troubled.

Why did this happen?

Why did he have to become human?

Why did any of this have to happen?

When he was Cybertronian, when he was an Autobot…everything made sense. He knew who and what he was supposed to be. He was a Prime…a leader…a soldier. Now…

Who was he suppose to be now? What was he supposed to be now?

Opening the door Optimus moved slowly and quietly down the hallway. When he entered the living room no one was there. But then suddenly, voices and laughter rang out from the kitchen.

Moving there, Optimus paused by the door way and watched quietly.

These humans…this family…knew nothing of the war he had fought, or of the fact that there was life beyond their own among the stars. All they knew of was the life right here on their own planet.

All this family was truly aware of was the fact that this was their life. Every day they awoke to the rising sun and rested to the onset of night. Like Cybertronians, they knew how to laugh and cry.

They had desires of falling in love as well as the ability to hate.

Like Cybertronians, they too were full of potential.

Where they really that different?

Looking up, Jacklyn smiled and held out a hand. "Optimus come get something to eat."

Smiling, Optimus moved away from the door frame into the kitchen.

The realization was clear. This was his home now. Nothing he could say or do would change that now. He HAD to learn to accept his fate for what it was. He HAD to accept the fact that this problem was not going away.

He could spend the rest of his days fighting it or…he could make the best of what fate has given him.

Moving beside Jacklyn, Optimus smiled and took her hand in his. Looking up at him Jacklyn smiled in return and squeezed his hand.

Fate had given him Jacklyn.

Fate had given him Cole and Kira.

FATE had given him a family. Not now or ever was he going to let something that precious go.

….*****….

Several months from that day had passed from when Optimus reached the realization of what was to become of him. He now truly accepted his fate and was striving to embrace it.

He had decided to try to move on and move forward. With that being said, Optimus had asked Jacklyn for assistance in receiving his driver's license which after attempting only once, he received with flying colors. In celebration of this Jacklyn even went as so far as to buying Optimus a vehicle to use. Nothing fancy, just a large red pick-up with raised suspensions and a chrome guard bar along with a large blue sticker in the back window saying PRIME. The sticker was Cole and Kira's idea.

Also in that time, Johnathan and Optimus had become somewhat close friends. They conversed with each other regularly, almost on a weekly basis. Johnathan had even went so far as to put his name on the line to get Optimus a job at a large cooperation that John's choice of occupation was in partnership with. With John's recommendation, Optimus received the job and took it graciously. Now he was one of twelve personnel that worked on the fourth floor of Conner & Conner, a company that strived in Designing, manufacturing and accounting for local businesses in the Phoenix district as well as several other districts in the area. Although his manager, Mr. Wilbur T. Cliff was less than desirable, Optimus felt as though the job succeeded to his expectations and abilities rather well.

As far as what Optimus did for this company was rather simple. He was basically part of a small group of people responsible for cataloguing, filing and storing data into the company's main network. So, as you can imaging, Optimus –having spend countless years in the historic hall of records at Iacon—found no trouble in doing what was asked of him at this company. In fact, his boss, Mr. Jacob W. Conner III had to commend him for the fine job he had done in merely two weeks of working there, and from which even received a raise in his pay.

For Jacklyn, having two sources of income was a much needed relief to their household. Because eof the purchase of the truck, Jacklyn almost faced eviction form her land lord for not being able to pay rent, but with Optimus' new job, that problem was easily eliminated.

Between Jacklyn and Optimus things were going very well. They considered themselves as a serious couple and conducted themselves in such a way. In the time that Optimus and Jacklyn started dating in all seriousness, Optimus had taken Jacklyn out on exactly twenty five dates. Cole and Kira had even been on one or two which were more considered 'family-outings'

To Optimus, everything was going smoothly, although he still found himself on rare occasions thinking about everything he left behind…

…

…

…

Across the cosmos somewhere in the twisted dimensions of space the Nemesis floated silently through the earth's hemisphere.

Slamming his servo into the center council, Megatron roared out in anger. "What do you mean you can't find Prime?!"

Cowering back slightly Knockout hesitated. "Well, Lord Megatron…uh…you see, we're not exactly sure HOW it happened but he just…disappeared. And he hasn't really popped up since."

Wheeling around suddenly, Megatron lowered his ominous gaze to Knockout. "Are you telling me Prime just disappeared into thin air?! Such a thing is not possible!"

Turning away Megatron growled even more. "My adversary has been missing for nearly a year and the Autobots are STILL managing to collect Iacon relics before our forces can retrieve them!"

There was a moment of silence that seeped across the bridge until finally Dreadwing broke the silence. "Lord Megatron, does it not turn to our benefit that Optimus Prime is out of the way? Without a Prime to use the Forge of Solis Prime, we needn't worry about—."

Rumbling lowly Megatron huffed. "Perhaps Dreadwing you have failed to take notice that Optimus Prime has taken with him a relic that can turn the tides of this war…and such…it is vital that we locate him and destroy him before he is given the chance to use such relic."

Shifting his weight slightly, Dreadwing humbly waved a hand. "Do forgive my asking Lord Megatron but what exactly was the relic that Prime managed to retrieve?"

Looking from over his shoulder away from the main terminal, Megatron hissed loathingly. " It is a relic of unimaginable power, one of which can cause massive amounts of pain and devastation to any adversary. Unfortunately, the relic does not hold a specific name in the Iacon archives."

Turning from the terminal, Megatron chuckled lowly, "However, according to information from the historical records, this relic holds the capability to wipe out entire armies with one blast. Thus, stands to reason, hold the utmost importunacy of retrieving."

Turning around, Megatron gazed across the bridge to Soundwave who was busily working at decoding the Icon data base. "Soundwave, for the time being discontinue efforts in decoding the Iacon coordinates and focus your efforts in finding Optimus Prime. The Autobots cannot retrieve any more relics without the assistance of their precious leader, and without our searching—."

Moving closer Knockout grinned. "They too will have to stop looking. Clever."

Smiling fiendishly Megatron chuckled ominously once again. "Optimus, the time is close at hand where you will feel my cold blade rip out your very spark…"

…

…

…

"WHAT?! What do you mean the Decepticons have ceased all activities?!"

Moving up next to Arcee at the main monitor, Ratchet barked. "Why would the Decepticons have stopped so suddenly?"

Looking up Arcee shrugged. "I wanna know as much as you Ratchet. One minute, they looked like they were on the course of unearthing another relic and then they just…left."

Shrugging Smokescreen laughed mockingly wide a grin. "Maybe they got scared thinking we were going to show up, and just decided to same themselves the embarrassment."

Walking up Bulkhead sighed. "So…the Decepticons decided they didn't want the relic after all. So what?"

Bumblebee beeped in agreement.

Shaking his head, ratchet groaned. "No. The Decepticons would never leave a relic behind, even if it was useless to their cause. They must have had an alternate motive."

Huffing Bulkhead scowled. "Like what?!"

Pausing suddenly Raf looked up from the catwalk. "You don't think…that…they…found Prime do you?"

Suddenly the room fell quiet until Bumblebee echoed with a series of sort drawn beeps. Shrugging Bulkhead sighed. "I've got to agree with Bee, why would the Decepticons even be looking for the boss bot in the first place? We've been searching for him high and low for little over a year now, and there's no trace of him. I bet the Con's are celebrating!"

"I wouldn't be so sure." Gazing up at the main monitors, Ratchet sighed. "In Optimus and Megatron's last confrontation, Optimus managed to apprehend a relic that holds significant power that could potentially turn the tide of this war…unfortunately, complete information about the relic is not accessible without Optimus' expertise decoding skills."

With sagging shoulders, Arcee groaned. "So what you're saying is; is that you can't tell us anything about the relic or what it's capable of?"

Nodding slowly Ratchet groaned. "Correct."

Groaning loudly, Miko huffed. "This is so not cool at all. I never thought I'd be the one saying this…but…I really wish we had the big guy back."

Looking at Miko, Raf nodded. "I think we all feel that way Miko."

Rubbing the back of his head, Jack sighed heavily. "Ratchet, isn't there anything we can do?"

Turning around, Ratchet shrugged gravely. "If we had a place to start looking then maybe we could do something Jack, but without that we have nothing."

Jumping in Miko chimed. "Dude, we know that he went through a ground bridge and got lost from there. He's probably in another dimension like what we were. Can't you just bridge him back like you did for us?"

Looking up Raf sighed. "Miko, when we were lost, we had cell phones to contact the Autobots. They could track our signal. With Optimus, we have no way of knowing which dimension he's in or whether or not he's in a parallel dimension at all."

Growling Smokescreen looked away. "If I was with you guys when Optimus got into that fight with Megatron—."

Resting a hand on Smokescreen's shoulder, Bulkhead sighed. "There's nothing you could have done to change what happened kid. So stop beating yourself up for not being there."

Shrugging Miko huffed. "Why doesn't he contact us already so we can bridge him back?"

Shaking his head, Jack exhaled slowly. "What if he can't contact us?"

Looking away ratchet suddenly grew worryingly quiet. "If Optimus cannot reach us, then there is no way we can bring him back."

The entire room grew so quiet that you could have heard a pin hit the floor.

Slowly all the bots went their separate ways as did their human allies.

Looking up at the monitor that was scanning coordinates, Ratchet sighed gravely. "Wherever you are Optimus, I pray by the All-spark to you are alive and well…and I just want you to know…that we really do need you back."

…

…

…

…