Chapter 10: Tough Decisions

"Opmus! Opmus! It's my turn! It's my turn!"

Looking at Kira, Optimus sighed and sat on the floor. "Oh Kira, I don't know that I can play like this anymore. I think I'm all 'played' out."

Pouting Kira sniffed. "But Opmus, you said you'd give me another ride once Cole's turn was done."

Chuckling softly Optimus sighed. "Oh, alright."

With a loud squeal of joy, Kira quickly scrambled onto Optimus' back and sat triumphantly.

Standing up Optimus groaned softly and started walking throughout the apartment.

With ecstatic squeals Kira beamed. "Giddy up horsey!"

Watching from the kitchen, Jacklyn smiled and giggled to herself softly. Optimus was definitely something else.

Over the course of the last few months, he had done so much for her had her family. Optimus does things that her previous boyfriends never did. He was a good role model and a wonderful father figure.

Gently resting a finger on her lips, she casually bit her nail as she withdrew into deep thought.

She and Optimus had been dating quite seriously for the past several months with no advance. With every other guy she dated, her ex-husband included, they had moved from a casual relationship into a more…serious relationship within a matter of months, and every one of those times it was the man that made the advance on her. Why hasn't Optimus?

Could it be that he was content with the way things were and didn't want to move their relationship status from its trial period into something more serious? Was it possible that he didn't want to be 'lovers'?

Feeling her heart sink slightly, Jacklyn sighed.

Compared to most men in this world, Optimus was a keeper, for multiple reasons; he was so kind and gentle hearted toward everyone, he was amazing with kids, he was responsible, he was generous, he was honest, he was an amazing kisser and above all that…just as an added bonus...he was not bad look by any means. After all, what woman could resist a man that was tall, broad in the chest and shoulders, had nice abs and pecks and biceps and tri—?

Shaking her head suddenly, Jacklyn cursed herself and looked away. It's always the same lately. She can be thinking about something entirely different and her mind will fall onto Optimus.

Looking back at him Jacklyn heaved a heavy sigh.

Then again, what was so bad about liking the way Optimus looked? They were dating after all, and his body was – from a woman's point of view – quite desirable.

But…what if he didn't find her desirable?

Shaking her head she had to resist that kind of thinking.

No, Optimus cared about her, maybe even loved her, otherwise why would he have stayed so long? Why would he have gone through everything the last few months had thrown at them and still come back?

Cursing herself, she thought if only there was a way to get Optimus alone. And she meant ALONE, alone.

It seemed as though the last few times Optimus and her began to get intimate with one another, something job related would come up, children would interrupt or something else family related.

Thinking, Jacklyn suddenly paused as an epiphany struck her. She knew how to get Optimus alone, and it would never look that way from Optimus or the children's perspectives.

Looking across the room, Jacklyn saw Optimus who was lying on his stomach with Kira still on his back yelling at him to get up, and Cole sitting on his back assisting Kira. Jacklyn snorted and chuckled at the sight.

Optimus and the kids needed a break from work and the blistering summer heat.

"Hey guys."

Just then Optimus and both Kira and Cole looked up to meet Jacklyn standing in the door way.

Smiling, she grinned mischievously. "What would you guys think about taking a vacation for maybe a week or two?"

Sitting up Cole tilted his head slightly. "Where?"

Looking at her finger nails, Jacklyn continued to smile. "Oh…I was thinking about maybe…going up north…to grandpa's cabin."

Suddenly, both Cole and Kira jumped up in excitement. Cole beamed from ear to ear. "Grandpa's cabin?! Really? We haven't been up there in a long time!"

Laughing Jacklyn nodded. "You're right, we haven't."

Huffing Kira tugged at Jacklyn's pant leg. "But mommy, don't you have to work?"

Kneeling with a smile, Jacklyn snuggled into Kira. "Oh I can take vacation days every now and then. Besides I haven't taken a vacation from work in a long time."

Pointing to Optimus, Kira continued to huff. "What about Opmus?"

Looking at Optimus with a warm, yet mischievous smile, Jacklyn laughed. "Oh I'm sure Optimus could get some time off from work too if he really wanted to."

Leaning back on his arms while still sitting on the floor, Optimus gazed up at Jacklyn with a puzzled look. "And where exactly is this cabin?"

Waving a dismissive hand with a wide grin on her face, Jacklyn cooed. "In Minnesota."

…

…

Within only a couple days, after making numerous phone calls, as well as a few IOUs, the back of Optimus' pick-up was packed full, strapped down with a black tarp and was well on it's way down the interstate.

It was evening now, and the landscape was starting to look different than that of dessert and plateaus, but instead as starting to look mountainous and green. This was Colorado.

Sitting up in the back seat, Cole yawned. "Hey mom, how long until we get to Grandpa's cabin?"

Chuckling softly Jacklyn huffed. "Almost a day for sure honey. So you might as well sit back and relax."

Leaning forward Kira yawned also. "Mommy, I'm getting tired…and hungry…and my butt hurts."

Looking over at Optimus, Jacklyn shrugged. "Did you want to stop in North Platte at a hotel? It's about a half an hour away from where we are now."

Shrugging Optimus sighed. "If you all wish to pull over and rest when we reach North Platte, I will do so."

The occupants in the truck slowly fell quiet as the sound of the engine and the tires treading on the interstate tar. For fifteen there was nothing but soft music playing in the background.

Looking out the window, Jacklyn sighed.

"What is wrong Jacklyn?"

Looking over at Optimus, Jacklyn sat up. "Hmmm?"

Glancing over from the wheel Optimus sighed. "What's wrong?"

Smiling sheepishly, Jacklyn shrugged. "Oh nothing, I was just admiring the scenery."

Again the cab suddenly fell quiet.

"Some nights, I stay up cashing in my bad luck
Some nights, I call it a draw
Some nights, I wish that my lips could build a castle
Some nights, I wish they'd just fall off…"

Looking over Optimus watched and listened as Jacklyn quietly sung along to the song playing on the radio.

Chuckling softly Optimus sighed loudly.

Looking over Jacklyn smiled. "What?"

Optimus smiled. "You have a beautiful voice you know."

Looking away in embarrassment, Jacklyn tried to hide her face. "No I don't Optimus. You're just saying that to flatter me."

Shrugging casually, Optimus sighed. "You believe what you wish to believe and I will do the same."

As the moved down the interstate, the lights of an approaching city emanated off the clouds on the horizon.

Glancing at Jacklyn, Optimus shrugged again. "Do you wish to stop?"

Looking back at Kira and Cole Jacklyn smiled. "It's up to you Optimus. If you feel like you can keep going, then keep going. I don't think you're going to get much argument from the peanut gallery."

Looking up in the rear view mirror, Optimus smiled at the sight of both Cole and Kira sleeping soundly.

Peering over at Jacklyn, Optimus smiled. "I can keep going."

Waving a hand Jacklyn smiled. "Then by all means, continue on fine sir."

Moving through the city, Optimus watched the lights gleam against the windshield then looked over at Jacklyn. She was also looking at the lights of the city.

Her eyes glistened with yellows and reds from the lights…making her face glow like a star set high in the sky.

Looking back forward, Optimus just couldn't help but smile to himself as they rolled on through the quieting streets.

"Optimus, could I ask you a rather serious question?"

Staring out the truck's windshield, Optimus nodded. "Yes Jacklyn, of course."

Looking away Jacklyn breathed in slowly. "What do you think about…us?"

Examining the exit sighs as they passed, Optimus casually yawned. "By 'us', what is it you mean?"

Stretching her legs out, Jacklyn turned and gazed out her window. "You know… us…us as friends…as a couple."

For a moment Optimus was rather quiet, then shrugged casually. "what is it I am supposed to think exactly?"

Looking over at Optimus, Jacklyn shrugged. "Are you…happy with the way things are?"

Furrowing his brows in thought for a moment, Optimus eventually slowly nodded. "Yes, I suppose I would say that I'm quite content with the way things have become. Why?"

Looking away Jacklyn folded her arms and slouched in her seat. Lowering her voice slightly, she sighed. "No reason."

Laying her head against the window, Jacklyn sighed gravely to herself.

He was happy with things being the way they were? He didn't want ANY kind of change?

Looking over at Jacklyn again, Optimus could clearly see that something was not right. Did he offend Jacklyn somehow with his answer? And if so, how?

Turning his attention back out to the road in front of him, Optimus groaned quietly. Why did women's emotions have to be complicated?

…

…

When Jacklyn opened her eyes the next morning, the road was different now. They were no longer on the interstate, but instead were on the back roads in a low valley of some kind.

The trees climbed and slopped to the hill side and came almost right up next to the road in some spots.

Then, as if the shed any confusion a yellow and blue sign in the distance approached and quickly passed read: 'Welcome to Minnesota'.

Looking at Optimus in astonishment, Jacklyn huffed. "You didn't stop at ALL?"

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus smiled warmly. "I told you I could keep going, did I not?"

For several seconds, Jacklyn was stunned. More astonished than anything else. Optimus actually drove all night and got them to Minnesota, almost a full day sooner than what she thought they were going to arrive.

With the passing time, the hill side eventually became nothing but flat, open prairie and fields of corn and soy beans with various thickets scattered here and there. Only two hours of this scenery passed before thick forest and brush covered rolling hill sides once again, but that wasn't before the rolling flat plains of grass with large white wind towers covered every acre flashed their powerful brilliance across the landscape.

Minnesota; the land of ten thousand lakes…it's truly had a beauty all its own.

Turning up a vacant gravel road with no sighs, Optimus had to wonder if Jacklyn truly knew where she was going. The truck had to crawl through a thicket whose branches grew across the road and up a path that was overgrown with grass and loose brush. Then, to set aside and doubts, a large, two story cabin sat out like a sore thumb, looming over a clear crystal lake.

Bringing the truck to a stop, Optimus turned off the ignition and sat back, looking at everything in awe. Glancing over at Jacklyn, Optimus smiled. "You were right Jacklyn. This truly is a beautiful place."

Quickly unbuckling their seatbelts Cole and Kira scrambled out of the truck to investigate the lake lot and stretch their legs.

Getting out of the truck themselves, Jacklyn sighed fondly. "Oh It's just how I remember it."

"Jacklyn! Optimus! Bought time you guys got here."

Looking up on the balcony, Optimus noticed a familiar face and smiled. Jacklyn on the other hand felt as though her heart sank into her stomach.

Yelling back Optimus huffed. "This is a pleasant surprise. What are all of you doing here?"

Laughing John waved dismissively as he descended the stairs. "We got out here yesterday morning." Looking out over the water John smiled with the same fondness Jacklyn had. "You remember how we'd come out here as kids and we'd go down on the beach and play?"

Standing next to John, Jacklyn nodded sheepishly. "Yeah, I remember. You and Eric used to go fishing out on the dock in early morning or late afternoon because that's when the fish would bite best."

"Jacklyn!"

Looking up on the balcony Jacklyn smiled at the sight of Matilda, who was holding a small bundle in her arms. Setting aside the feelings in her chest, Jacklyn let a squeal of excitement escape as she scrambled up the stairs. "Oh my goodness, I have to see the new baby!"

Gently handing the baby over, Matilda smiled humbly. "She's been waiting to meet her aunt."

With a wide smile Jacklyn laughed. "A she huh? Aren't you lucky."

Laughing with a nod, Matilda smiled. "Yep. God finally decided to give me a break and gave me a daughter instead."

Cooing at the small child Jacklyn sighed lovingly. "And what is the little angel's name?"

Smiling warmly Matilda sighed. "Emily Louis."

Smiling down at Emily, Jacklyn chuckled softly. "Hello Emily."

Yawning, the small infant struggled to open her eyes then cooed before closing them again.

Watching from down below on ground level, Optimus looked to John and chuckled. "Congratulations John. You must be very proud."

Looking up at Matilda and Jacklyn, John sighed and nodded. "Yeah, I am. It's not every day that you get a new baby…you know?"

Nodding Optimus' gaze also drifted back up to the balcony. He didn't know what it felt like to have a child born of his own genetic coding. But just from the way John was acting…from the way he was smiling…it must be a wonderful thing.

Nudging Optimus gently, John pointed to the back of the truck. "Hey, OP…what do you say we get you guys unloaded and settled."

With a simple nod Optimus agreed. "I think that would be a rather intelligent course of action."

Again gazing up out of the corner of his eye, Optimus couldn't help but wonder, what did Jacklyn mean last night when she asked about he thought about their current relationship? Could it be that she wished to become more serious? If that was truly the case, in what way did she wish to become more serious?

…

…

As an hour passed, Optimus, Cole, Kira John and his boys decided they were going to try their luck at fishing while Jacklyn, Matilda and baby Emily stayed back at the cabin.

"I'm sorry about us crashing the cabin. If I had known you guys were coming, I would have told John no."

Smiling sheepishly, Jacklyn shook her head. "It's okay Matilda. You didn't know."

Walking up to the stove, Matilda sighed. "So…what's the matter?"

Looking up, Jacklyn seemed puzzled. "What do you mean?"

Pulling a pan out of the cupboard, Matilda scoffed playfully. "Oh come on Jackie. I saw it in your eyes when you got out of your truck. Your heart sank when you saw we were here. What's wrong?"

Turning in her seat toward the table, Jacklyn lowered her voice. "I-It's nothing Matilda."

Looking over her shoulder, Matilda placed her hands on her hips and scowled playfully. "Jackie…I'm an elementary school teacher. It makes no difference whether the person is a toddler or an adult. I know when I'm being lied to."

Trying not to meet Matilda's eyes, Jacklyn sighed…knowing she was defeated. " I was…just sort of hoping to get Optimus alone sometime during the week…that's all."

With a look of confusion Matilda remained silent, then turning away from the sink with the towel in her hands, Matilda stared at Jacklyn with an expression of puzzlement. "Jacklyn what are you talking about—?"

Jacklyn stayed quiet not saying a word. Suddenly it dawned on Matilda.

"He hasn't said those three important little words, has he?"

Slowly Jacklyn shook her head no.

Putting the towel on the table, Matilda leaned back on the counter. "And he's made absolutely no attempts to—?"

Again Jacklyn shook her head no. "He's really made no attempt at all." Looking away Jacklyn groaned rubbing her eyes. "What am I going to do?"

Gazing over her shoulder from the stove Matilda shrugged casually. "It's simple. Just talk to Optimus about it."

Looking up Jacklyn cried. "How?"

Chuckling, Matilda waved a serving spoon covered in sauce. "Simple. Just talk to him the way you're talking to me. Talk to him from the heart. The only way he's going to know what you're thinking is if you tell him."

Feeling defeated Jacklyn threw a hand up and let it fall to her knee. "Sure, that's easy for you to say. You've been married for over fifteen years now. You have four beautiful children, a beautiful house with a white picket fence, a promising career and a bright future. What do I have? An apartment in the slums of town and a job that keeps me away from my family for hours …sometimes days at a time."

Turning off the stove, Matilda slowly sat next to Jacklyn who was staring at the floor.

"First of all Jackie, now is not the time to be giving yourself a pity party, you're a grown woman and for Christ's sake take some initiative. If Optimus isn't going to be the one to say anything then you should. Two, I've seen your apartment and it's more than that. It's a home. Three, your children know you have to work hard and respect that because they know your job entails helping people and saving lives. Fourth and finally, you have a wonderful, caring, generous man who adores you and your children and would probably jump off the ends of the earth for you."

Rubbing her hand on Jacklyn's back, she sighed heavily. "Look, I get it. You love Optimus…and you want to show him you love him. But if one of you doesn't tell the other that you love them, how do you expect to go anywhere in your relationship?"

Jacklyn was silent for a long time before she burst out laughing while being in tears. "You're right. I hate to admit it but you're right. I'm behaving like I'm seventeen again, experience love for the first time. Crazy, foolish, stupid love. "

Looking up at Matilda Jacklyn groaned. "I thought maybe my heart had learned its lesson after the last how many times of having my heart broken."

Continuing to rub Jacklyn's back, Matilda smiled warmly. "I really don't think Optimus would be the kind of man that would do that to you. I truly believe he would never intentionally hurt you."

Putting up a hand, Matilda smiled. "Jackie…don't worry about it. When you want to have time alone with Optimus, you give me the word, and I'll make sure everyone clears out."

Shaking her head, Jacklyn sighed. "Why would you do that for me?"

Smacking Jacklyn lightly in the back of the head she laughed. "You came up here hoping to have the cabin alone for a few days so that you and Optimus could get better acquainted with one another."

Looking up at the ceiling, Jacklyn smiled. "But you're saying all this like he actually wants to be with me."

Smiling Matilda nodded. "I'm sure he does Jackie, I'm sure he does."

Releasing a heavy sigh, Jacklyn leaned over groaning. Why did men's actions have to be complicated?

…

…

Later that night, as all ten of them, baby Emily included, sat around the table eating a chicken pasta dish that Matilda had made, the adults talked about the usual things that adults talked about, and the children talked about all the activities they were going to do tomorrow.

In midst of all the voices, John and Matilda's twin boys Christopher and Kegan where busily making a mess of themselves when Christopher suddenly looked up at Optimus and then at his mother.

"Mom, why does Aunt Jackie's boyfriend have a scar across his eye?"

Hissing across the table Matilda almost spit her food out. "Christopher!"

Looking at his twin suddenly the boy pouted. "I'm not Christopher! He is!"

Shaking his head the other twin scoffed. "Seriously mom, you can't even remember who is who?"

Scowling Matilda pointed a dangerous finger at the two giggling boys. "Listen here you little smart-alecky runts; I know which one of you is which. Christopher, I know I'm talking to you because unlike your brother, YOU have a knick on your ear from when you were a baby. So don't play dumb."

Looking up with a pouting expression on his face, Christopher reached up feeling his ear then looked at his twin. "Dude, she's good!"

Looking across the table, John and Matilda's eldest son Matt, scowled at the two. "Of course she's good ding dongs, she's your mother. She's been stuck with you since the day you two were born."

Looking up from beside Matt, Cole laughed softly. "The same could be said about you Matt. You know that right?"

Matt shrugged putting the fork of food up to his mouth. "I know that. You don't hear me complaining do you?"

Scoffing loudly Matilda groaned. "Lord, this is what I get for having sons."

Laughing loudly, John almost chocked on the food residing in his mouth.

Scowling at John, Matilda said nothing, then turned her attention back to Christopher who was still giggling. "Christopher Robert, apologize to Optimus for asking such a rude question."

Chuckling, Optimus held up a forgiving hand. "It's all right Matilda, I cannot say that young Christopher's question is wrong to ask, and thus will not treat as such. Besides, the bay cannot help but be curious, I'm sure."

Looking at Christopher as well as Kegan who was watching from behind, Optimus smiled warmly and gestured to his scar. "I received this after getting into a very fierce battle with an adversary of mine."

Cocking his head slightly, Kegan leaned forward. "What's an ad-ver-sary?"

Leaning forward, Matt sighed. "An adversary is the same as an enemy."

Leaning back in his seat, Kegan sighed. "Oh…why do you have an enemy Optimus?"

Scolding Kegan, Matilda huffed. "Kegan Michel."

Cowering down, Kegan smiled sheepishly. Optimus laughed softly. "It's a little hard to explain little one, and in most truth, I don't know that I can."

Popping up, Chistopher sighed. "Why?"

Chuckling softly, John scoffed. "Stop asking question you twerps and eat your supper."

Both looking down, Chistopher and Keagn ate without saying another word.

Groaning softly. John looked up smiling while cutting a piece of chicken. "So, Optimus…how do you like your job so far? You've been there now for, what, two and a half months?"

Nodding Optimus smiled. "Overall, I'm rather content with my work station, however there are some rather undesired stipulations."

Chuckling, John scoffed playfully. "You mean Wilbur, don't you?"

Returning the gesture Optimus smiled. "How could you have possibly guessed?"

Looking down at his food shaking his head, John laughed. "That old goat thinks he owns every square inch of that company, and will pretty much tell you he does."

Optimus put a fork into his mouth laughing in agreement.

Pointing his own fork forward John huffed. "But you know, I heard a rumor going through he grapevine that pretty boy, Connor is looking for a replacement for Cliff just because he's getting so sick of the complaints."

Serving herself with salad, Matilda scoffed. "Sheesh, and they say women gossip."

Shrugging casually John sighed. "I'm not gossiping Matilda. I'm merely informing Optimus here of what I heard."

Looking up from slurping pasta Kira smiled. "That's still gossiping uncle John."

Scowling playfully, John quickly stuck his tongue out at Kira, you in turn did the same to him.

Looking up from at his plate, Optimus shrugged. "Do you have any idea as to who Mr. Connor is hiring as a replacement?"

Shaking his head, John sighed. "No. Only that they have a lot of field experience in data recover and formatting."

Looking back down at his plate, Optimus pushed away the half eaten chicken breast. "I just hope that whoever is asked to take the position is not any worse than what Mr. Wilbur Cliff was."

Nodding John agreed. "I hope so too. Try talking on the phone with him. That was horrible. He'd talk really quiet and then he'd talk REALLY LOUD AND THEN HE'D talk really quiet again. You can imagine how annoying THAT gets after three or four times."

Chuckling softly Optimus nodded. "He does that when you are talking to him in person as well."

Both Optimus and John chuckled. They both knew all too well that Wilbur T. Cliff was the kind of individual that most people did not enjoy working with or for. He was a short, rude, self-absorbed individual that had absolutely no manners what-so-ever. He was a, bald, crotchety old man that always wore a tux as well as a condescending attitude just about everywhere he went.

Pushing his plate away, John sighed loudly. "Okay honey, I'm ready for that desert now."

Crossing her arms, Matilda smiled mockingly. "Alright, then you better get your butt outside to the fire pit and start trying to make a fire."

Looking up in confusion, John huffed. "Why?"

Shrugging casually, Matilda smiled. "Because I got the stuff to make smores."

As soon as Matilda made the slightest mention of smores, instinctively, Kira, Kegan and Christopher jumped up from their seats and ran out the door. Following behind, Matt and Cole followed just to avoid having to clean off the table.

Shaking her head, Matilda groaned. "I shouldn't have said the 'S' word."

Slowly rising, Jacklyn sighed. "Well, I guess I should really start cleaning up."

Rising also, Optimus nodded. "I will assist you."

Looking at both of them, Matilda saw this as the perfect opportunity to give Jacklyn and Optimus some much needed alone time. Grabbing baby Emily's carrier and John's arm, she quietly motioned for them to go outside. With a puzzled looked John was about to speak only to be quietly shushed by his wife.

"Let them have some time to themselves. Come outside with me, and help me keep the kids occupied."

Furrowing his brows, John quietly huffed. "Why?"

Gently patting his arm as they moved out the screen door, Matilda smiled. "I'll explain it to you later. Right now, let's leave them be."

…

Carrying the dishes into the kitchen, Optimus was a bit puzzled by Jacklyn. She had barely talked at all the entire night. She wasn't behaving like her normal, spunky, talkative self, and in most honesty, that concerned Optimus.

Gently placing the dishes beside the sink, Optimus moved around Jacklyn taking the towel in his hands, proceeding to dry the dishes she had already cleaned.

For some time, the sound of the washrag moving through the water and the gentle clanking of dishes was the only things making noise. Jacklyn didn't say a word.

Looking up, Optimus casually smiled warmly. "You've been overly quiet this evening, are you not feeling well?"

Gazing solemnly at the soapy water, Jacklyn sighed. "I feel fine."

Tilting his head slightly, Optimus nudged Jacklyn. "Then why the silence?"

Looking up out the window above the sink Jacklyn breathed casually. "Optimus, do you remember the first time you fell in love?"

Falling quiet, Optimus was forced to pause to ponder the question. Shrugging, Optimus sighed. "Yes, I suppose. Why do you ask?"

Shaking her head, Jacklyn mumbled. "No reason."

Leaning down beside Jacklyn, Optimus whispered. "Oh I think there is a reason, otherwise you would not have asked."

Putting the rag down, Jacklyn turned and started to walk away. "Don't worry about it Optimus. It's fine."

Glancing at the sink and then at Jacklyn who was ascending up the stairs to the rooms, Optimus called out. "Jacklyn wait a minute." Almost sprinting up the stairs, Optimus called out again. "Jacklyn please just wait a moment!"

Moving through the hallway Optimus panted. "Jacklyn please just talk—."

Just then, Optimus paused in speaking as he noticed Jacklyn sitting on the bed with her back away from him, and she was quietly sobbing. Walking in, Optimus shut the door and gently sat down beside her. "Jacklyn, what is wrong?"

Turning her face away, Jacklyn said nothing. Trying to look at her Optimus whispered. "Have I done something to upset you?"

Still, Jacklyn remained silent.

Moving off the bed, Optimus slowly kneeled in front of her, taking her hands in his. "Jacklyn…please, I will not know what is troubling you unless you talk to me."

Keeping her head down, Jacklyn sighed heavily. "I'm just so scared."

Chuckling softly, Optimus kneeled lower to see her face. "About what?"

Looking up to meet Optimus' eyes Jacklyn sniffed. "About being rejected…again."

Cocking his head, Optimus furrowed his brows. "What are you talking about Jacklyn?"

Scoffing loudly in frustration, Jacklyn looked away. "You don't get it to you? Even after all the little subtle hints I've given you over the past few weeks."

Shaking his head Optimus paused. "Jacklyn, I don't—."

Pushing Optimus away suddenly Jacklyn stood and walked toward the window. "What don't you understand Optimus? What you can't seem to put two and two together that when a woman makes certain advancements against a man that it may mean she want a more serious, meaningful relationship?! I want to be with you Optimus! In a way I can't even describe! I want to be with you so much that it hurts!"

Looking away, Jacklyn suddenly fell silent, trying to quiet the tears starting to swell. "I'm so afraid that if I tell you my true feelings, that you'll feel pressured and want to leave."

Turning to Optimus, Jacklyn's eyes were red and swollen. "Why can't you understand? I love you Optimus Prime…and I want to be yours and yours alone."

…

No words could describe what Optimus felt at that very moment. The only thing comparable would be that of; your heart stopping for a minute, climbing up into your throat, then sinking back down into your chest before finally starting again.

This was what was troubling Jacklyn? This was why she was acting so strange?

She was afraid of him rejecting her love...her love for him.

She loved him?

Those three words flashed like lightning through Optimus brain, a shock her was still trying to recover from. Who would have thought that those three words could mean so much?

I. Love. You.

Jacklyn's voice continued to echo the words through Optimus skull, rendering his brain helpless.

Looking up at Jacklyn with a smile Optimus beamed but then his smile faded.

She was looking away from him, gazing out the window at the lakeshore below. Sighing heavily, Jacklyn whispered. "I know you don't feel the same about me Optimus, it's okay. If you want to leave, I'll make sure not to tell the children the truth."

Slowly a large warm set of arms wrapped themselves around Jacklyn's torso. Looking up behind her, Jacklyn was a little surprised to have been met by a kiss.

They kissed for what seemed like forever, but in reality was probably only around forty five seconds. Pulling his lips away leaving Jacklyn whimpering for more, Optimus finally understood.

Turning her around, Optimus smiled seductively as he caressed her cheek. With a low guttural purr, he gently kissed and bit at Jacklyn's neck making her whimper. "Oh Optimus…"

Looking at her with his deep blue seductive eyes, he smiled evilly and swept her off her feet, carrying her in his arms. Yelping she gripped his shirt tightly, staring at him in disbelief.

Throwing her on the bed, he pinned her down staring at her.

Gazing up, she could felt as though her heart was going to pound right out of her already trembling chest. He was so strong.

Smiling, Optimus cooed in a whisper. "Jacklyn Helms."

Returning the smile, Jacklyn whispered. "Yes…Optimus Prime?"

Grinning with intent of even more seduction, Optimus purred lowly. "Tonight…I am making you mine."

...*****…

The air of the next day's morning was cool and crisp. Birds sung their joyous morning tunes as other animals began to wake with the rising sun.

The cabin was quiet as everyone was still sound asleep…all but two.

Breathing slowly, Jacklyn lay on Optimus' warm chest and purred softly in satisfaction. There were no words that could describe last night's...encounter.

Though his eyes were closed, Optimus would feel the warm gently breeze blowing in from the window as well as the sun's rays on his face.

Looking down, he smiled in satisfaction seeing Jacklyn against him almost asleep with a peaceful, satisfied smiled on her face. Gazing at the ceiling he couldn't help but smile himself. For once he could say this and not feel as though he had to contradict himself.

Life…was good.

Rolling over with a groan, Jacklyn laid on her side opening her eyes slowly to gaze out the window. Snuggling up behind her Optimus purred, but said nothing.

Laughing softly, Jacklyn lifted a hand, resting it on his cheek then kissed him. "Good morning."

Optimus returned the gesture by kissing her on the cheek back. "Good morning to you too. Did you sleep well?"

Stretching slightly, Jacklyn sighed. "Oh yes, I slept very well." Looking up at Optimus she smiled. "You?"

Smiling with a soft chuckle, Optimus gently kissed Jacklyn. "The best I've slept in months."

Kissing him back on the cheek, Jacklyn sighed. "Thank you for last night. I finally felt like a real woman again."

With a smile, Optimus gently rubbed his nose against hers. "You're very welcome. It was my pleasure."

With a soft laugh, Jacklyn huffed. "Oh I'm sure it was."

Chuckling Optimus shook his head. "As if you didn't enjoy last night's endeavors as well?"

Optimus continued to chuckle softly as he sat up and stretched. Gazing out the window he sighed happily. Sitting up also with the covers against her chest, Jacklyn smiled gazing out the window at the glistening tides of the lake. "Have you ever seen anything more beautiful?"

Smiling Optimus lovingly looked at Jacklyn with a grin on his face. "Yes. I have."

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn smiled sheepishly then looked away laughing.

Optimus just smiled.

Pulling off the covers, Optimus casually slipped on a pair of boxers and pants. Looking at Jacklyn while holding his shirt in his hand he chuckled. "I am going to go see if anyone else is awake."

Pulling her knees up to her chest Jacklyn smiled. "And… if no one's awake?"

Shrugging Optimus smirked.

Shaking her head, Jacklyn laid back down, pulling the covers over her head releasing a soft groan of exhaustion.

With the same smirk, Optimus climbed back onto the bed and hovered over Jacklyn's mass. "Jacklyn."

Pulling the covers from over her head she scowled playfully. "What?"

After kissing her passionately for a minute or so, he pulled away and smiled. "I love you."

Slowly smiling, Jacklyn could feel her face turning red. "I love you too."

Gently rubbing his nose into hers, Optimus smiled and cooed. "I'll come back soon. Alright?"

Pushing her face into the pillows slightly to hide the blushing, Jacklyn smiled. "I'll be waiting."

Optimus smiled and nodded. "I know you will be."

Carefully climbing off the bed, Optimus trotted over to the door and left shutting the door quietly behind him.

Sitting up again, Jacklyn's eyes drifted back outside. There was a pair of turtledoves sitting n the tree next to the window.

Smiling she sighed lovingly before falling back into the pillows laughing softly. "Oh Optimus, you've stolen my heart."

…

…

…

Casually walking down the stairs, Optimus for once had found himself in such a good mood that he was actually whistling.

Walking into the kitchen though, Optimus found himself stopping suddenly after seeing Matilda at the stove.

Looking up with a wide smile spread across her face, Matilda beamed. "Well good morning."

Walking into the kitchen slowly Optimus spoke. "Good morning."

Smiling still, Matilda watched him walk in and open the fridge. "Sleep well?"

Nodding Optimus smiled sheepishly. "Yes, I slept very well. Thank you."

Snorting slightly with a laugh, she looked back to the sausage links sizzling on the griddle.

Huffing, Optimus scowled slightly. "What was that gesture for?"

Laughing, Matilda shook her head while looking to the ceiling. "Oh nothing. I meant nothing by it."

Clenching his jaw very slightly, Optimus merely shrugged and looked away. Then looking back, Optimus couldn't help but wonder if Matilda knew. Shrugging it off Optimus thought perhaps it was best that he just not say anything, after all what business he conducted with Jacklyn's was precisely that; his business.

Just then several tiny feet came scrambling down the stairs giggling and laughing.

Kira, Kegan and Christopher came scrambling into the kitchen. Looking up at her aunt Matilda, Kira smiled. "Good morning Aunt Matilda!"

Smiling back Matilda laughed. "Good morning Kira. Did you sleep well?"

Nodding Kira beamed. "Yep!"

With a small grin, Matilda nodded. "That's good." Then turning to her own boys she smiled mischievously. "How about you two monsters, did you guys sleep okay?"

Both nodded in sync to one another.

Smiling Matilda turned back to the stove, serving eggs, toast, hash browns, bacon and sausage links onto three plates. Handing them to the boys and Kira she smiled with a wink. "Well that's good to hear. Now, eat up you three, you guys have a busy day of hard earned play ahead of you."

Taking the plates graciously, the three skipped away into the dining room to eat their breakfast.

Looking at Optimus she smiled handing him a plate. "I have a few things that I need to be done around here, but John is too lazy to do them. So I was hoping you'd maybe help me out?"

Taking the plate in his hands, Optimus gazed up at Matilda. "I would be more than happy to assist you."

Chuckling, Matilda smiled. "That's wonderful to hear. Maybe we'll get started right after breakfast."

Cocking his head slightly Optimus huffed casually. 'What is it you wish to accomplish exactly?"

Shrugging, Matilda casually turned back toward the stove. "Oh, you'll find out very soon."

Furrowing his brows as he gazed at the melting cheese on the scrambled eggs, Optimus couldn't help but wonder…what on this earth was Matilda going to have him help her with?

…

…

Later that morning into early afternoon, Jacklyn had finally decided to get up and out of bed as well as dressed in order to come outside.

Upon walking outside she stopped suddenly at seeing Matilda on the patio lying in a wooden Adirondack chair dressed in a bathing suit with sunglasses on her head and a glass of ice tea in her hand.

Walking up beside her Jacklyn paused, looking at her with puzzlement. "Matilda, what are you doing?"

Looking up Matilda smiled. "What? Can't a woman relax?"

Sitting next to her in another Adirondack chair, Jacklyn sighed. " I thought you were saying last night at dinner that you had all these chores you were going to do?"

Looking away, Matilda suddenly had a wide smile spread across her face. "Oh…I…got someone else to do it. And I must say…I'm enjoying the view…"

Looking over in the direction as to where Matilda was looking, Jacklyn almost chocked.

Standing beside a large stump, Optimus stood bearing a sharpened axe on his shoulder. Grabbing another piece of wood off the pile Optimus lined it up center then struck it with the axe, splitting it into splinters.

Smiling at Jacklyn, Matilda giggled. "You're more than welcome to sit and watch."

Scowling playfully Jacklyn huffed, then proceeded to sit back in the Adirondack chair she was already seated in. "I think I just might."

Gazing up at the sun Optimus exhaled hard and placed the axe on the ground next to the stump. It was only late morning and the air was already beginning to become warm, and now he was beginning to become hot and sticky from the sweat beading off his chest and face. Peeling off his shirt, Optimus exhaled deeply at feeling the air on his skin. Picking the axe up into his hands again, Optimus casually flexed his arms up and back then swung down spitting the log in half. The beads of sweat slowly dribbling down across the creases of his large muscles, making them almost glimmer in the sunlight.

With her hand, Matilda fanned herself and looked at Jacklyn in disbelief. "Oh Lord almighty! Look at those abs!"

Smiling sheepishly, Jacklyn looked away. "I know. Aren't they amazing?"

Sighing fondly Matilda huffed. "And those biceps and triceps…lord I think you might have to resuscitate me…I think might go into shock!"

Looking at Matilda, Jacklyn scoffed. "Take it easy Matilda. That's my man you're looking at."

Walking up onto the deck yawning John sighed. "Matilda honey have you seen my—?"

Looking in the direction the ladies were looking John was at first in awe then furrowed his eye brows in slight disgust. "Christ Optimus…put your shirt back on! No one wants to see those man boobs of yours!"

Wheeling around suddenly, Optimus paused seeing John, Matilda and Jacklyn all looking at him.

Looking up scowling, Matilda huffed. "Shut up hater, just because you don't have a fine build like Optimus, doesn't mean you need to tell him to put his shirt back on." Gazing at Jacklyn Matilda added. "Besides, we happen to like the view."

Looking away with a confused scowl, Optimus couldn't quite hear the conversation but could only guess that it was about him. Turning his attention back to Matilda and Jacklyn, Optimus could quite figure it out. He thought he was supposed to be helping Matilda with chores, not do them for her. Then again, this was a rather tedious task proving to need upper body strength, which he had more than enough to suffice. Besides, at least this was keeping him occupied. He never was the kind of individual that could just sit around and do nothing. That's never been his nature.

Shaking his head, Optimus turned away returning to his task of splitting wood.

Scoffing John walked away mumbling. "Now he's just showing off."

Leaning back in her chair Jacklyn giggled softly looking at Matilda. "He's so jealous."

Nodding with an agreeing laugh, Matilda smiled. "Yes he is."

As both their gazes returned to Optimus, Matilda suddenly sighed. "What do you think he'd look like in a Speedo?"

Opening her eyes wide Jacklyn snorted a laugh. "Matilda!"

Shrugging quickly, Matilda smiled sheepishly. "What? Just because I'm married doesn't mean I can't appreciate fine art."

Putting her hand on her forehead Jacklyn did the only thing she could, she laughed.

Smiling Matilda sighed, leaning back in her chair. "So, how are things going with you and Optimus?"

Looking away slightly, Jacklyn concealed her blushing face and smiled. "Things are going very well."

Leaning forward, Matilda raised an evilly curious brow. "Why are you blushing?"

Sitting up straight, Jacklyn scowled looking at Matilda. "I'm not blushing."

Pointing to her face Matilda smiled mischievously. "Yes you are. How do you explain those red cheeks?"

Slowly smiling, Jacklyn sighed lovingly as she looked over at Optimus. "He told me he loved me this morning."

Matilda was quiet for a few moments then looked away with a wide smile. "I told you he'd come around."

Sighing Jacklyn pulled her knees up to her chest. "Well that's one hill we've managed to get over."

Passing a curious glance to Jacklyn, Matilda paused with a look of puzzlement. "What do you mean by "that's one hill you've managed to get over"?"

Looking at Matilda, Jacklyn remained quiet for sometime before finally sighing heavily. "I don't know how to explain it, but I think Optimus may be hiding something. Something from his past that's been haunting him."

Cocking her head slightly, Matilda blinked a few times. "Like what?"

Shaking her head, Jacklyn groaned. "I don't know. But whatever it is, it's been stressing him out something fierce. He hasn't had one good night's sleep since the day I met him."

Groaning softly, Matilda shook her head. "I don't know what to tell you Jackie. Men are a complicated species; they've always got something going on in their heads."

Nodding Jacklyn sighed. "I know that, but with Optimus it's kind of different. It's almost like…"

Tilting her head to look at Jacklyn's turned face, Matilda lowered her voice slightly. "It's almost like what Jackie?"

Glancing up at Matilda out of the corner of her eyes for only a moment, Jacklyn soon shifted her glance back to Optimus. "It's almost like he's using every ounce of energy and will power he has to forget about his past, but still can't quite seem to do it. He doesn't like talking about it at all and will change the subject if you try to even pursue the matter."

Looking at Optimus also, Matilda sighed softly. "Jackie, you of all people should know that we all have skeletons in our closet in one way or another."

Shaking her head, Jacklyn groaned. "But with Optimus it's different. I don't know really how to explain it, but I just know that whatever it is Optimus is running from…it's important."

Just then, from inside the cabin baby Emily started crying. Looking at Jacklyn, Matilda said nothing then sighed. "I'll be right back."

Watching Matilda walk into the house, Jacklyn sighed then looked back at Optimus and whispered. "Oh Optimus, what are you running from?"

…

…

Later that night shortly after midnight, the whole cabin was quiet and all the lights were off…all but one.

Sitting up, reading The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, Jacklyn sighed and looked at Optimus who was lying down with his eyes closed. Smiling gently she sighed deeply. She loved the way Optimus looked when he slept. She loved the way his black hair would dangle over his eyes as well as how his nostrils would slightly flare out when he inhaled a breath.

Moving a lock of hair out of his eyes, she continued to smile warmly.

"Optimus, are you asleep?"

Groaning softly, Optimus sighed. "Yes. I am awake." Opening his eyes, Optimus sat up and yawned. "Why, what is the matter?"

Closing her book and setting it on the night stand, Jacklyn slowly turned to Optimus and cuddled up next to him. "Something is really bugging me…"

Wrapping his arms around Jacklyn, Optimus sank back against the headboard. "And what is it exactly that's bothering you so?"

Looking up, Jacklyn was quiet for a long time. All she could really do was gaze into Optimus' eyes, wondering if she should really ask the question burning on her tongue. Groaning softly, Jacklyn looked away out the window at the water of the lake glistening in the moonlight. "Optimus, why don't you ever talk about your past? I mean we've been together officially for almost ten months and I know almost nothing about you. Why is that?"

Gazing downward Optimus remained quiet, then forced a chuckle. "You already know everything you need to know about me Jacklyn."

Staring back at Optimus harshly, Jacklyn huffed. "I know what Optimus? That you were an army commander? That you lived in Jasper, Nevada before coming to Arizona? That you where an archivist before you became a commander for something that you will not tell me about? Other than those things Optimus, I know nothing about you! How do I know that you're whole story about being a commander isn't bullshit and that you're actually some crazy, psychopathic, homicidal maniac that escaped an insane asylum and is running from the authorities…or how about a terrorist from another country using me and my family as cover so that you can assassinate an important political figure! Shit Optimus, how do I know you're not something worse than the two things I just mentioned! Optimus why don't you—?!"

Suddenly, Optimus clamped his large hand over Jacklyn's mouth to keep her from becoming any louder and waking the whole cabin. Whispering, Optimus hissed. "Jacklyn please! You'll wake the children and John and Matilda."

Falling silent, Jacklyn sighed heavily and pulled Optimus' hand away from her mouth. Rising from under the covers, Jacklyn walked over to the window and just stood there, staring at the stars. "Optimus…this morning you said you loved me. Is that true?"

Getting up Optimus nodded slowly, watching Jacklyn. "Of course it was true Jacklyn. I would never lie to you about something like that."

Looking at Optimus Jacklyn scowled. "Yet you seem to see it as being okay to lie to me about your past."

Furrowing his brows Optimus huffed. "I did not lie about my past Jacklyn."

Laughing smugly Jacklyn threw her hands up in frustration. "Oh okay…let me rephrase that. You didn't lie, you just didn't tell the whole truth, is that it?"

Shaking his head, Optimus slowly approached trying to take Jacklyn's hand. "Jacklyn, it is not what it seems, you don't understand I—."

Pulling away Jacklyn hissed, trying to hide the anger swelling in her eyes. "I don't understand what Optimus? Huh? Am I not good enough to know what it is that's so God-damn important that it keeps you up almost every night?!"

Stepping back, Optimus was shocked that Jacklyn knew that. Nodding Jacklyn huffed looking away as her voice started to soften. "Yes Optimus, I know that you often don't sleep at night because of the nightmares you have."

Looking up she cringed. "I can hear you get up in the middle of the night and go into the living room and turn on the TV. I know that these nightmares you're having must in some way have something to do with your past…I just want to know…why it is you think you need to keep it bottled up?"

Turning away Optimus had to breathe hard. How could he bring himself to tell Jacklyn the whole truth? How could he tell her about The Autobots and the Decepticons? About Cybertron and the Iacon relics? About the war? How could she except that?

She couldn't.

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus forced a smile on his face as he approached and took her in his arms. Squeezing her tightly against him, he groaned. "Jacklyn, the burdens I bear I do not wish to weigh on anyone else. In my past, I've seen things you could not begin to imagine. Horrible, gruesome things. I don't tell you of these happenings as so to spare you of the pain and sorrow they bring. You tell me that you know I do not sleep well, and you're right…I don't. But after last night—."

Leaning in closer, Optimus gently brushed his nose against Jacklyn's and purred. "After the night I had with you…for once in a long time…I slept in peace. Nothing troubled my mind and everything was still."

Putting his hand under her chin, Optimus lifted Jacklyn's gaze so that her eyes met his. With a purr, he gently kissed her cheek and neck. "It's not that I don't want to tell you about my past…it's just that I wish not to tell myself."

With a look of confusion, Jacklyn stared at Optimus for a long time but then softened her eyes and smiled. She knew what he meant. He was trying not to remind himself of the horrendous things he'd seen. With that in mind, she reasoned with herself that maybe it was okay that she didn't know EVERYHING about Optimus.

Chuckling Optimus continued to kiss her on the neck and shoulder. Purring, he smiled. "All that matters Jacklyn…all that really needs to be known, is that I am here. I am what I am, and I accept that. I love you. I love Cole and Kira, and I love this life that I have been so fortunate to receive. I am at peace with the fact that things cannot return to the way they were before I met you, and I have to question myself as to whether or not I would want them to return that way. My life is here now…with you, and I wouldn't have it any other way."

Hugging Optimus tightly against her, Jacklyn cooed lovingly. "Oh Optimus…I love you."

Clutching her against his chest, Optimus purred. "I love you too Jacklyn…more than you'd ever know."

Resting his chin rest on her head, Optimus closed his eyes and breathed out hard. He managed to escape an all out fight with Jacklyn this time, but eventually he would have to tell her about his past…there was no denying it. But still, how could he tell her of such tales of giant sentient robots from another world? About a war that's lasted for millennia? About such things as Primus and Unicron? No matter how much he tried to suppress the memories, they always seemed to come flooding back tenfold. No matter how much he tried to reason with himself that he was happy here, that he was content with the way things were he would constantly find himself hungering for the smell of battle. He was a warrior by nature, and with every passing week it was becoming harder to find peace in this domestic way of living.

Then again, this kind of lifestyle was what they were fighting for. They were fighting for everlasting peace, although sometimes, this life now seemed anything but peaceful.

Looking down at Jacklyn, Optimus smiled lovingly. His life was here now…with her. As hard as it was to except at times, Optimus knew that nothing could be changed…no matter how hard finding acceptance with that truth seemed to be.

Moving a lock of hair away from her eyes, Optimus smiled with a sigh.

Looking up Jacklyn smiled mischievously, turning her head ever so slightly.

Taking Optimus by the hand, she led him back to the bed where they laid together kissing passionately before Optimus, without looking, turned out the light.

…

…

…

Upon waking the next morning, Optimus awoke finding himself lying on his side curled up close to Jacklyn. Looking down he smiled at seeing that they were sleeping cheek against cheek, hand in hand.

Yawning quietly, Optimus looked around the room seeing that the sun was just starting to come up and the dim light of dawn was just starting to spread its wings across the surface of the world. Looking back down at Jacklyn, Optimus smiled as he gently kissed her on the cheek, trying not to wake her.

After getting dressed, and making a pot of coffee, Optimus slowly walked outside with a cup of coffee and stood on the patio, resting his arms on the handrail looking out over the lake. It was chilly that morning, thus Optimus had worn a light hoodie. The sky was clouded over an the landscape looked grey and dreary, but still held its own distinct beauty.

"Enjoying the view?"

Turning around, Optimus was a bit surprised but pleased to see John with his own cup of coffee.

Pulling the sleeves of his red wind breaker down, John breathed in gently also resting his arms on the handrail of the patio. "My dad built this cabin with his own two hands on this plot of land. He could have built it anywhere he wanted but he built it here just because he fell in love with this very same view."

Looking at John, Optimus smiled wrapping his hands around the cup. "Your father had wonderful taste in scenery."

John nodded in agreement with a simple chuckle. "Yeah he did."

There was a pause for a moment where both John and Optimus listened to the breeze blowing gently through the trees and the birds sang quietly in the branches of the spruce and maples. Looking at John, Optimus sighed. "John, could I ask you something?"

Looking at Optimus, John smiled. "Sure, I don't see why not."

Looking at his reflection in the cup of coffee, Optimus sighed. "What was your father like?"

Staring up at Optimus, John was quiet for a while but then smiled with a small laugh. "Actually…he was a lot like you. He was quiet and reserved, and very well mannered as well as even-tempered. He was tough, but rarely showed it." Laughing John shrugged. "My dad was nothing like my mom. He was gentle and patient and as long as you showed him respect, he'd show you respect. He was also the kind of guy who'd try to talk to someone before getting into a fight, but would beat the shit out of ya' if you provoked him. Like I said…he was a lot like you."

Looking at John, Optimus furrowed his brows. "May I ask, what happened to him?"

Letting his shoulders sag slightly, John sighed. "He died from melanoma."

Furrowing his brows, Optimus lowered his brows. "What is that?"

Rolling his shoulders, John yawned. "It's a type of cancer that begins in the cells that make up the tissues in the eye or in the intestines. Usually, it travels to the heart and…once it gets there…"

Nodding Optimus spoke softly. "I think I understand."

Again, the two were silent for a while until John laughed. "My dad would have loved you though. He was an easy going guy who loved to get to know people."

Smiling, Optimus nodded his head respectively. "I am quite certain I would have liked him too."

Looking away back out across the lake, John smiled warmly. "Thank you Optimus."

Staring down at John, Optimus blinked with puzzlement. "For what?"

Gazing upward, John chuckled. "For making Jacklyn smile again. I haven't seen her this happy in many years. Thank you for doing that."

Watching John for a long time, Optimus' expression seemed blank, but with time a small smile appeared on his face as he turned to look back out across the water. Optimus didn't say anything because nothing really needed to be said. Both understood the other's intentions and was grateful for them.

Slowly drinking the coffee from his cup, Optimus sighed and smirked with content. Things in this life were going to be alright. Without really having any explanation, Optimus just knew that things were going to be okay.

Suddenly, the screen door flew open and Jacklyn was standing there.

Turning around Optimus froze. The look on Jacklyn's face was that of shock.

Putting the cup down on the handrail Optimus approached Jacklyn slowly, watching her. "Jacklyn, what is it? What's wrong?"

Jacklyn remained quiet, having not said a word. Taking her arms, Optimus held her out away from him watching her with puzzled, concerned eyes. "Jacklyn, what's the matter? What happened?"

Looking up at Optimus, Jacklyn's eyes all of a sudden turned red and started to swell with tears. Falling against Optimus, Jacklyn sobbed. "Optimus, its Katherine Johnson…she…she died this morning."

The words at first did not compute with Optimus' brain. Then, within a few moments, it all flooded in…

With his shoulders sagging, Optimus squeezed Jacklyn into his chest letting her sob. How could something like this have happened to someone so kind and so gentle like Katherine Johnson?

Looking up at the clouded over sky, a thought suddenly flashed through his head. All of a sudden, the sky looked a little bit darker and a lot drearier.

…

…

…

Cole and Kira took the news the hardest.

They had lost a close friend that meant a lot to them, and no words could describe the pain and hurt their hearts were feeling.

Jacklyn and Optimus both agreed that the needed to cut the vacation short and return to Phoenix to await the news as to when the funeral would take place.

Optimus drove nonstop without pause. For twenty six hours he drove until finally they came back into Phoenix. The sky was dark and it was raining.

As Optimus unlocked the apartment, Jacklyn and the children walked in not saying a word. No one was in a bright, cheery mood…not even Kira. Instead everyone was sad and quiet…and for good reason.

It was late now, almost ten o' clock at night, and everyone was drained. Looking at Jacklyn, Cole sighed sadly. "Mom, I'm going to bed."

Looking at Cole, Jacklyn tried her best to smile as she nodded. "Okay sweet heart, I'll see you in the morning."

Nodding, Cole also did his best to smile as he turned and walked down the hallway into his bedroom.

Looking at Jacklyn, Optimus gently rubbed her arm and smiled the best he could. Jacklyn tried to smile back as she fell against Optimus and breathed hard.

Suddenly, Optimus felt his pant leg being tugged at. Moving away from Jacklyn, Optimus looked down seeing Kira by his feet.

Looking up with pleading, teary eyes Kira held her arms up at Optimus.

Taking her into his arms, Optimus held Kira close to his chest.

Looking up she sighed sadly. "Opmus, why do people have to die?"

Looking at Jacklyn and then back at Kira, Optimus was a little lost for words. "Well, Kira…you see—." Gently sitting on the couch, Optimus breathed softly. "You see Kira; it's just another part of life. We are all born into this universe, we live for a while and then we die. It's just the way higher powers designed it to be."

Looking down Kira sighed gravely. "But why did Mrs. Johnson have to die?"

Sitting beside Optimus, Jacklyn gently rubbed Kira's arm. "Oh honey, Mrs. Johnson was plenty old. After all she was almost ninety five years old."

Nodding Optimus tried to smile, more for himself then for Kira. "That's right. Mrs. Johnson lived a long good life, and made many good lasting memories on people before she left."

After hearing that, Kira was quiet for a long time before finally looking up again. "Mommy, did Mrs. Johnson go to heaven to be with Jesus?"

Looking at Jacklyn Optimus paused. Smiling Jacklyn nodded. "Yes sweety, I'm sure she did. And you know what?"

Cocking her head, Kira widened her eyes in curiosity. "What?"

Smiling warmly, Jacklyn cooed. "I'm sure she's sitting up in heaven with Jesus and her husband staring down on us smiling."

Looking away, Kira was again quiet then she smiled. "Yeah…I bet that's what she's doing."

Climbing down off of Optimus' lap, Kira yawned and stretched before hugging her mother. "Goodnight mommy. I love you."

Hugging Kira tightly, Jacklyn sighed heavily. "Goodnight sweet heart, I love you too."

Coming back to Optimus, Kira smiled also giving him a hug. "Goodnight Optimus. I love you too!"

Sitting there with a look of puzzlement for a moment, Optimus remained motionless, then smiled holding Kira close. "I love you too Kira."

Holding her out so she could see him, Optimus smiled warmly. "I hope you have wonderful dreams tonight sweet heart."

Swaying with a smile, Kira hugged Optimus again so that their cheeks where next to one another.

Kissing Kira gently on the cheek, Optimus smiled and gently scooted her alone. "Go to bed now. I will see you in the morning."

Waving goodnight, Kira then scurried away to her room, closing the door behind her.

Optimus stood and watched as she skipped away, and sighed as soon as she was gone. Kira was something else.

Looking back at Jacklyn, Optimus was met by a warm gentle smile from Jacklyn.

Shrugging casually, Optimus sighed. "What?"

Shaking her head slowly, Jacklyn rose off the couch taking Optimus into her arms. "It's nothing Optimus. I'm just…so happy you are here."

Returning the smile, Optimus pulled Jacklyn close. Then the two of them walked away to go to sleep holding one another. "I am very happy to be here too Jacklyn. Truly I am."

…

…

...

As the four of them walked into the church, Optimus couldn't help but feel a little out of place. As it turned out, many people knew Mrs. Katherine Elizabeth Johnson and loved her.

The atmosphere upon walking in was quiet and mournful. There were people Optimus did not know standing around talking and crying. Then Optimus noticed the casket by the entry to the sanctuary.

Upon looking within it, Optimus saw Katherine. She was pale and skinny, although that was to be expected, considering she was not in good health during her last few days in this life. But beyond all that she looked peaceful, she looked like she was sleeping which was the way she should look. After ninety five years on this planet, she deserved to rest.

Suddenly, Optimus felt a small warm hand slip into his. Looking down, Optimus saw Kira in her dark blue dress staring up at him. "Opmus, what are you looking at?"

Kneeling, Optimus gently picked Kira up and held her close. Kira fell quiet for a long time, just staring at Katherine's corpse. Looking at Optimus, Kira whispered. "Opmus, Mrs. Johnson looks like she's sleeping."

Gazing at Kira for a moment, Optimus smiled forcefully. Putting a hand behind her head, Optimus pulled Kira in to rest on him. "Yes Kira, she does look like she's sleeping."

Not moving her head off Optimus' shoulder, Kira sighed. "But she'll never wake up will she?"

Slowly Optimus shook his head no. "No Kira, she's not going to wake up."

Just then another hand slipped into Optimus' weaving it's fingers through his. Looking down, Optimus met Jacklyn's sorrowful eyes. It was taking everything in her power not to lose her composure. "Come on, let's be seated."

Moving away from the casket, Optimus saw two men standing by the door. Nodding to Jacklyn, the man was calm and polite. "This way."

Jacklyn followed the man into the sanctuary of the church, and Optimus Kira and Cole followed Jacklyn. Stopping by a pew, the man ushered them in where they sat quietly.

Kira sat on Optimus' lap and was surprisingly quiet for a six year old. It was amazing that she had any idea as to what was going on at all.

Looking around, Optimus gazed at the architecture of the room, the high suspended ceiling that came to a point, the numerous stained glass windows, the large wooden cross on the front wall, it was all so different and new.

Sitting back, Optimus breathed out hard. For some reason or another, he couldn't help but feel as though it was wrong for him to be in this human place for worship. Regardless of whether or not he was human now or not, he was still a Prime, a disciple of Primus himself. Primus was his creator. Was he being mutinous by being here…in this church?

But surely, if Primus knew of this, and he was sure he did, would he not be lenient on the circumstances? After all, a dear friend had passed away, and this was her place of worship, this was where her funeral was being held. Surely Primus would be understanding and forgiving of this.

Just then Optimus noticed a short man with a mustache and glasses dressed in a robe of some kind walking up standing behind an alter in the front of the room. The soft organ music that was playing stopped, and the whole room fell quiet.

" It is with…great sorrow that we recognize the passing of a dear mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend, and for that we have gathered today, to mourn and to celebrate the life of Katherine Elizabeth Johnson…"

…

…

…

During the ceremony and at the fellowship following immediately afterward, Jacklyn cried, as did Cole, all the way through to the actually burial, which by no means was wrong...it was their way of saying goodbye. But for some reason, Optimus could not.

Optimus did not cry burying Cliffjumper and he most certainly did not cry burying Skyquake, yet at that moment, when Katherine's casket was being lowered into the warm, brown earth, Optimus felt as though maybe he should be crying, but his pride and commanding demeanor would not allow him to do so, and that made it hurt all the more.

Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn couldn't help but wonder how Optimus could, even now, keep his emotions bottled up. Next to the funeral service members who do this as an occupation, he was probably one of the only people not crying. He looked as though he had no emotions at all, he was cold and lifeless.

Why?

Meeting Jacklyn's eyes, Optimus stayed quiet.

Their eyes met, and suddenly there was a passing of energy. Optimus knew that something was troubling Jacklyn just from the way her eyes gazed upon his, and when she looked away…

Sighing heavily, Optimus couldn't help but dread whatever was to follow after these sorrowful, long hours.

….*****….

After they got home later that night, and Jacklyn, Cole and Kira had gone to sleep, Optimus sat awake at the kitchen island drinking a cup of hot chocolate. It was hard to imagine that Katherine had died just after ninety five years of living. He was millions of years old, but now…by being human…his life span was being cut drastically.

"Optimus?"

Looking up, Optimus was a bit surprised to see Jacklyn standing in her night gown, watching him.

Tilting her head slightly, Jacklyn sighed. "Optimus, why are you still awake? It's almost two in the morning?"

Looking back down at his glass of hot chocolate, Optimus shrugged. "I was just…thinking about this afternoon…about seeing Katherine lying there in that casket."

Sitting next to Optimus Jacklyn exhaled quietly. "Yeah…and?"

Looking away into empty space, Optimus' voice grew quiet. "I was merely thinking about…how short our lives really are, and how not a single moment should be wasted on thinking about what you should have or even could have done to make a difference, but rather should be spent looking back thinking about the things you have done."

Furrowing her brows at Optimus, Jacklyn tilted her head to the side. "I'm not sure I follow."

Taking her hand in his, Optimus looked down at Jacklyn smiling warmly and fondly. "Oh I think you do."

Turning her head slightly, Jacklyn stared at Optimus wondering what in the world he was talking about.

Optimus, on the other hand, continued to hold the same smiling expression as the minutes dragged on into the night.

….*****….

Months passed from that encounter between Jacklyn and Optimus, and in that time elsewhere in the twisted fabrics of the universe, a plot was in motion. A plot so warped in sanity that it was churning up a storm that might turn the tides of reality itself.

"Are you saying that you've found a way to pin-point Optimus' location?"

Megatron's eyes were as sinister as they were serious. "How is that even possible?"

Shrugging Knockout grinned casually. "Soundwave and myself have been carefully analyzing the feedback loops from the ground bridge data we managed to collect during your last encounter with Prime, and may have found a way to replicate the ground bridge portal and amplify the results using a spacebridge."

Lowering his gaze, Megatron growled. Laughing sheepishly, Knockout backed away. "Allow me to explain Lord Megatron, the ground bridge portal acted as a gateway or rather a rip in the space-time continuum thus throwing Optimus Prime through space and perhaps even time, more than likely landing in an alternate reality so to speak. But those occurrences can be replicated and enhanced to pin-point accuracy by the space bridge giving us the utmost exactness as to where we end up, an accuracy that Optimus did not have. He was just thrown into a reality without a choice, we have that choice."

Smiling Megatron chuckled. "Excellent Knockout, you and Soundwave are to be commended. Prepare a strike team to send through the space bridge. You will retrieve Optimus for me."

As Megatron turned away, Knockout stepped forward suddenly. "Uh Lord Megatron, with all due respect—."

Looking over his shoulder, Megatron growled. "You will bring Optimus to me Knockout, or do not ever think of returning to this ship. Do you understand!?"

Cringing, Knockout lowered his gaze and sighed heavily. "I understand Lord Megatron. I will retrieve Prime, no matter what it takes."

With his back to Knockout, Megatron continued to growl. "See that you do. Time is of the essence, and we cannot afford to waste anymore time."

Slowly Knockout turned away and exited the bridge of the ship.

Approaching Megatron quietly, Soundwave stopped.

Chuckling lowly, Megatron grinned. "It's only a matter of time now Soundwave. We will retrieve the relic by any means necessary and perhaps I'll finally be rid of that accursed Optimus Prime…once and for all."

…

…

Later that very same day, standing before the Decepticon spacebridge, Knockout turned to the Vehicon stationed at the control panel. "You are to reactivate the space bridge precisely twenty four hours from now to the same coordinates already supplied via the Nemesis. If you're any later heads are surly to roll."

Looking at the three Vehicons, standing behind him, Knockout scoffed. "For now, our orders are strictly recon. We are to find Optimus Prime, assess the situation then proceed from there."

Knockout then started to walk forward but paused the wheeled around jabbing a digit into the nearest Vehicon. "If anything happens to my finish, there'll be pit to pay."

Turning back to the vehicon at the control panel Knockout groaned. "Activate the space bridge to the given coordinates."

Nodding, the vehicon punched the coordinates and activated the space bridge. Now normally, when the space bridge would activate, a large flash of blue and green light with a loud 'whoosh' sound would ensue followed by the actual space bridge portal opening up, but this time, there was an even brighter flash of light as the portal made a horrible hissing noise, then out of nowhere there was a loud bang and the portal seemed to be sucking in on itself, almost like that of a black hole.

Backing up slightly, Knockout turned to the vehicon standing closest to him and yelled over the loud thunderous boom of the space bridge. "Is it supposed to be doing that?!"

The vehicon behind Knockout shook his head quickly. Turning back around, Knockout growled and groaned. "Come on!"

Running into the space bridge portal with the three chosen vehicons behind him, Knockout's only concern was this; wherever he was going, he just hoped his paint job and finish wouldn't be ruined.

Little did he know, that that was the least of his problems.

…

…

…

At that moment, Optimus awoke at having a strange unsettling feeling in his gut. He didn't know what it was or how to explain it, but something in the atmosphere just didn't seem right. Sitting up, Optimus pulled up the covers and looked around the dark room. Nothing had changed physically upon falling asleep…but something was defiantly different. Something was very wrong.