Chapter 11: Pleasant Surprise?

"Come on Cole, it's time to get up for school." Turning on the light to Cole's room, Optimus yawned as he adjusted the tie he was wearing.

Groaning, Cole pulled his pillow over his head. "Oh Optimus, I don't want to go to school…it sucks."

Shrugging, Optimus propped the door open with a nearby action figure that happened to be lying on the floor. "Perhaps, but like it or not, you still have to go. After all, it is vital go get a good education."

Peeking in through the doorway, in her pink feety pajamas, Kira beamed. "Come on Cole! Aren't you excited?"

Sitting up with his hair in a wild craze, Cole huffed. "Why would I be excited for being the punching bag for middle school kids? It's only been a month and I already hate it with a passion…"

Sighing with a quiet chuckle, Optimus shrugged. "Regardless Cole, you have to go. Do you wish for your mother to get in trouble with the government?"

Pouting Cole shook his head. "No. Not really."

Nodding, Optimus smiled. "Alright then, get up and dressed and come into the kitchen, your mother has made breakfast for us."

Walking away, Optimus sighed and turned into the kitchen.

Turning away from the sink wearing her scrubs for work, Jacklyn smiled. "Is he getting up?"

Optimus nodded, sitting at the island beside Kira, who was already dressed and ready to go. "Yes he's getting up, although he doesn't seem quite as eager to go to school like some individuals I know."

Looking down at Kira with a smile, Optimus was returned the gesture.

Looking up at Jacklyn, Optimus sighed. "Of course, I cannot say I'm too eager to go into work this morning and find out who is filling Mr. Cliff's position."

Turning off the stove, Jacklyn wiped her hands and approached Optimus. "Ah, maybe so. But if you want that pay check, you'll go anyway, right?"

Nodding Optimus was quiet as Jacklyn helped Optimus by fixing his tie as well as the collars on his black dress shirt. Looking Optimus over, Jacklyn smiled. "You look very good it black and red you know."

Looking at the red velvet tie against the black, Optimus smiled, pulling Jacklyn in against him. "And you look very nice in scrubs."

Rolling her eyes Jacklyn laughed, then suddenly her pager went off. Looking at it, Jacklyn groaned. "We've got an ambulance coming in with an elderly man that may have had a stroke."

Looking at Optimus she pleaded quickly. "Can you please make sure Cole and Kira eat their breakfast and can you get them to school before going to work?"

Nodding Optimus ushered Jacklyn to the door. "Yes, of course I can."

Grabbing her purse, keys and coat Jacklyn turned to Optimus giving him a quick kiss. "Okay, I'll see you all later tonight. Bye. Love you."

Nodding Optimus held the door. "I love you too Jacklyn."

Within moments, Jacklyn was gone down the stairwell.

Closing the door, Optimus sighed and returned to the kitchen slowly. Upon entering he saw both a bright cheery Kira and a dim, half asleep Cole both eating their breakfast. Looking at the clock Optimus exhaled hard and sat down. "We need to hurry up and finish our breakfast so I can get you to school on time."

Nodding to Optimus, both Cole and Kira finished what was on their plates, and packed their supplies into their book bags.

This had become normal for Optimus. Lately it seemed as though Jacklyn was being called away more and more for work, so it fell on Optimus to see that the children got to school on time. Not that he minded. Cole and Kira actually seemed to enjoy it a lot. Plus, it gave Optimus a chance to say goodbye to them before they went to class.

After Optimus and the children left the apartment, Optimus closed and looked the door, then they all proceeded to the elevator. Smiling Optimus watched as Kira tried to reason with Cole over why school wasn't so bad. Chuckling Optimus sighed. This was the normal occurrence. This was the daily routine.

After going down to the sub floor, also known as the building's basement where tenants could park their vehicles, Optimus remotely unlocked his truck from a few yards away. Flipping the driver's seat back, Kira scrambled into the back seat into her chair and started to buckle herself in. Cole climbed into the front passenger seat throwing his book bag on the ground, shutting the door, then proceeded to buckle his seat belt.

After helping Kira strap herself in, Optimus pushed the seat back and climbed in shutting the door, buckling his seat belt as well. Turning the ignition, the truck roared to life and idled until Optimus shifted it from park to drive. Moving forward out of his parking spot, Optimus proceeded up the exit ramp out onto the street, turning in the direction of the school.

…

With a course of fifteen minutes or so, Optimus slowly came to a halt in from of the Washington Middle School just off of West Glendale Avenue, where like normal student of various ages where flocking in the front yard on their ways to class.

Looking at Optimus, Cole sighed. "I'll see you later Optimus."

Nodding Optimus smiled. "I'll be here at four o' clock like usual to pick you up. If anything should arise, I'll call the school and have the taxi pick you up and bring you to my work, okay?"

Nodding Cole climbed out of the truck. "Okay."

Waving Optimus smiled. "Bye Cole."

Cole waved but said nothing as he closed the door and walked away.

Watching for a few moments, letting the truck idle, Optimus couldn't help but notice how Cole veered away from a group of boys that looked to be perhaps a year or so older than him. But one boy in particular stood out.

This boy was rather tall and heavy built. He had very dark brown hair, light skin and was wearing a school football jersey. He pointed to Cole and said something to his friends and they all laughed. Cole didn't see this, but Optimus did. So this was Steven aka "Bubba" Marley.

Shifting from park to drive, Optimus watched and sighed. He couldn't help but have a bad feeling about this Steven Marley character.

…

Within a few more minutes, Optimus stopped in front of the elementary school. Turning off the truck, Optimus unbuckled his seat belt, opened his door and climbed out.

Turning around Optimus pulled the driver's seat forward and helped Kira out of her restraints. Lifting her out of the truck, Optimus smiled setting her on the pavement. Kira smiled and took his hand. "Come on Opmus, come on!"

Chuckling Optimus shifted the seat back and closed the door. "Alright Kira, alright…I'm coming."

Hand in hand, Optimus and Kira walked up the sidewalk into the building. Then moving down the hallway together for a ways they stopped in front of room 116. Inside there were many children around Kira's age playing and laughing. Kneeling, Optimus smiled. "You have a good day at school, okay?"

Smiling with a nod, Kira hugged Optimus. "Okay Opmus."

Slowly pushing away, Kira sprinted into the room over the coat rack where everyone hung up their coats and book bags. Smiling, Optimus watched as a group of young girls yelled Kira's name saying she needed to come play.

Standing Optimus sighed and started back down the hallway, now it was time for him to be where he belonged.

…

…

Upon walking into the work place, Optimus was met with the same, chaotic atmosphere he came to understand the first day he was here. Walking over into his cubical, Optimus took off his jacket, sat and started up his computer. Pulling out a drawer on the filing cabinet to his left, Optimus pulled out a large folder of files that he was working on just yesterday. Opening the folder, Optimus immediately got to work.

"Hey, Optimus do you have that file from the Johnson purchase?"

Without looking up, Optimus held up the file. "Eric, you need to be more organized."

Smiling sheepishly, the scrawny man turned red in the face. "Yeah, I know. It's amazing I still have a job."

Looking up Optimus chuckled. Eric Reace. Another worker here at Conner & Conner that he got to know first day he was here, and has known quite well ever since.

Leaning over the cubical divider, Reace beamed. "Hey, did you see the game last night?"

Shaking his head Optimus sighed. "I do not watch foot ball Eric, you know that."

Nodding slowly, Reace looked away. "Ah that's right. I keep forgetting. Hey! Did you hear about who got Ol' Wilbur's position?"

Looking up, Optimus shook his head gazing at Eric in astonishment. "Who got it?"

Looking up Reace smiled. "Her…"

Standing up, Optimus looked over all the dividers across the room to the office where Wilbur Cliff used to be stationed. Now, a tall, thin woman with glasses sat there. She wore a long black skirt, white blouse and wore her hair wrapped up in a bun on the top of her head. Her glasses were square as was her obvious demeanor. Her eyes were serious, cold, and tough. She meant business.

Sighing fondly, Reace smiled. "Isn't she gorgeous? Her name is Linda York…and I think she's beautiful."

Nodding slowly, Optimus let out a soft grunt in agreement. "Yes…she is beautiful."

Shrugging casually, Optimus sat back down looking at his computer screen. "But…she is not my type."

Looking down in astonishment, Reace huffed. "Not you're type?! Are you kidding me? She's gorgeous! She was probably a Playboy model in another life! How can you say she's not your type?"

Looking up, Optimus smirked. "My type wears scrubs, works as a nurse and loves me more than anything in this universe."

Scoffing in disgust, Reace huffed. "Ah yeah…that's right, I forgot…you're already a claimed man."

Leaning back in his chair, Optimus nodded. "Yes I am, and today is Jacklyn and I's second year anniversary."

Resting on the divider, Reace huffed. "What are you going to do for her?"

Shrugging casually, Optimus smiled. "Oh…a number of things. One of my gifts is already in motion as we speak."

…

…

Things had started to quiet down at the nurses' station since this morning. Various nurse were coming in from their rounds and were having a cup of coffee.

Walking in, Jacklyn sighed looking at her friend who was working at a computer. "Mr. Smith is doing good, although he is having some discharge coming out of the abrasion on his leg. I scrubbed him down and got the wound sanitized."

Looking up the woman smirked. "Girl, you need to take some time off work. I honestly have to wonder if you don't think about syringes, needles, IV tubes and bed pans in your sleep."

Laughing, Jacklyn picked up a clip board for room A703. "Janae, I did take some time off…" Looking up she returned the smirk. "Seven months ago."

Both laughed for a bit before both fell quiet again. Looking at Janae, Jacklyn smiled. "So how was Howie's fiftieth birthday?"

Scoffing with a laugh, Janae sighed. "Please, you should know what happens when you get a bunch of black folk together all bull shit'n about the past…"

Laughing Jacklyn shrugged. "I just thought I'd ask."

"Excuse me? I'm looking for a Ms. Jacklyn Helms."

Looking up Jacklyn was about to speak but paused…suffering from a state of shock and awe. A young man dressed in a dark green and black uniform placed a bouquet of red roses on the front desk.

Other nurses who happen to be standing there and knew Jacklyn whistled and yelled. Walking up, Janae laughed. "These are beautiful!"

Walking up slowly, Jacklyn looked at the flowers smiling, but then scowled. There's no tag saying who it's from. Looking up at the young man, Jacklyn couldn't speak.

Just then the young man laughed.

Looking up Janae huffed. "What's so funny boy?"

Looking over his shoulder at the elevator and then at them

The young man laughed. "These aren't all the roses to be delivered to Ms. Helms."

Just then the elevator doors opened and four more people dressed in the same uniform emerged, each holding a large bouquet of red roses.

Jacklyn's jaw dropped as a bunch more whistles and hoots rang through the room. All the individuals carrying flowers set them down on the front desk and left again, moving down the stairwell.

The young man then chuckled handing Jacklyn a card enclosed in an envelope. "Enjoy your flowers ma'am." He then turned away to follow his comrades down the stairs.

Looking up suddenly Jacklyn chocked. "Hey kid!"

The young man turned around and smiled. "Yes ma'am?"

Jacklyn looked at the flowers and then at the boy. "How many flowers are here?"

Smiling the boy grabbed the handle opening the door. "Seven hundred and thirty, ma'am."

With that, the boy walked through the doorway and disappeared down the stair well.

Looking at the card, Jacklyn opened it a read the hand written message inside.

'To my dearest Jacklyn,

From the moment we decided to be one, seven hundred and thirty days have passed. Two years. Two…wonderful years. For this I give you the most symbolic objet of love, a rose. A red rose for every day that you and I have been together. Let these be a calling of my love for you.

I loved you then…I love you now…and I will love you forever.

Optimus'

Suddenly there was a squeal making Jacklyn jump. Turning around Jacklyn was surprised to see Dianne, Lauren, Tori and some other nurses all whistled, cooed, and giggled.

Lauren laughed nudging Jacklyn. "Who would of thought? Jacklyn's sweet heart being the romantic type!"

As the other nurses talked like a bunch of hens in a hen house, Jacklyn looked down at the envelope in her hand.

Blushing Jacklyn looked away reading the note again. Then held it to her chest and whispered. "Oh Optimus' I love you too."

Looking around Janae huffed. "Alright ladies, alright… go back to posts and quit hooting over Jacklyn."

As everyone slowly left talking, Janae turned to Jacklyn laughing. "It looks like your hubby knows how to make a scene without actually having to be here."

Nodding, Jacklyn chuckled. "Yeah…I guess he does."

Patting Jacklyn on the shoulder, Janae sighed. "Come on, all personal have to get a mandatory flu shot today, and as head nurse, I was asked to administer all the personnel on this floor."

Nodding Jacklyn stood about to say that she hated shots but suddenly stopped. Looking Jacklyn over, Janae slowly approached taking her arm. "Jacklyn, are you alright?"

Looking up Jacklyn nodded and smiled. "Yeah, I just felt a little dizzy all of a sudden."

Looking Jacklyn over, Janae smiled and motioned with a nod of her head. "Come on, let's go check you out."

Furrowing her brows, Jacklyn huffed. "What? I thought I was going to get a shot?"

Shrugging, Janae sighed. "Nobody just randomly gets dizzy out of thin air. It would be irresponsible to give you a shot without examining you first. Come on."

Groaning, Jacklyn let her shoulders sag slightly as she followed Janae to an empty examination room. "I'm a nurse; I should be the one doing the examining, not the one being examined."

Janae just laughed pulling Jacklyn along. "Come on, don't be such a big baby."

…

…

As two o' clock in the afternoon came and went, Optimus was still in his spot in front of the computer screen, when suddenly his phone rang. Picking it up, Optimus noticed that the call was from Jacklyn's cell. Smiling Optimus answered.

"Hello love, I trust you received your anniversary present?"

Hearing Jacklyn laugh softly from the end of the line, Optimus smiled. Jacklyn sighed, letting her laughter subside. "yes Optimus…I got it. It was beautiful, thank you."

Leaning on his desk, Optimus chuckled. "Those roses are nowhere near as beautiful as you."

From the other end, Jacklyn laughed softly and sighed. "I love you, so much."

Closing his eyes, Optimus cooed. "I love you too."

"Oh get a room."

Looking up from the phone, Optimus scowled. Standing over the divider, Reace grinned.

Waving him off Optimus cooed. "So, about how late do you have to work this evening?"

Hearing Jacklyn sigh, Optimus waited. She forced a laugh. "I probably will not be home until late this evening."

Shrugging Optimus chuckled. "That is all right, I will wait until you come."

"Optimus?"

Opening his eyes, Optimus could tell something was in her voice. "Yes Jacklyn?"

Jacklyn laughed softly. "I have a present for you too."

Chuckling, Optimus smiled. "Oh? And what would that be?"

For a moment, Jacklyn was silent, but then she huffed laughing. "Wait until tonight, and I'll show you." Laughing nervously, Jacklyn cooed. "I promise it will change your life forever."

Falling quiet, Optimus paused. What in the world could Jacklyn give him that could change his life that dramatically?

Sighing, Jacklyn laughed. "I have to go now Optimus. See you tonight?"

Optimus chuckled. "Yes I will see you tonight. I love you."

"Love you too. Bye."

The line then fell silent. Looking at the phone, Optimus sighed. What in the world could Jacklyn have to give that could make such a drastic change?

Just then, his cell rang again. Looking at it Optimus stopped suddenly. It was from the Washington Middle school.

…

…

…

Sitting inside the principal's office, Cole sat still with a cold pack from the nurse's office against his eye. Just then the door opened and Optimus was standing there.

Standing behind his desk, Principle VanDell stood holding out a hand. "Mr. Prime, thank you so much for coming on such short notice, we tried to contact Ms. Helms but she was in the middle of an emergency."

Sitting next to Cole, Optimus looked at the principal. "What happened?"

Sitting, the principle motioned to Cole. "Mr. Helms here got into a fight with another student this afternoon in the hallway."

Looking at Optimus he sighed heavily. "Apparently there had been some negative, vulgar comments passed and Mr. Helms retaliated. Mr. Prime, we cannot condone this type of behavior therefore may have to consider possible suspension."

Sitting on the edge of the seat, Optimus held a hand up. "Now, wait a moment. Let's not be rash. I realize that Cole and the other boy involved are equally at fault. But other than this incident, Cole has been a very well behaved boy. He was provoked and had a minor slip up, that's no reason to suspend him. Isn't there any other kind of punishment that does not involve suspension?"

Principal VanDell was quiet for some time, before he finally nodded. "Perhaps there is something else. This Saturday, a group of troubled teens from the Phoenix Correctional Center are going to clean graffiti off of park equipment. Perhaps if Mr. Helms attended, then suspension would not be needed."

Scowling slightly Optimus huffed. "What about the other boy involved?"

Shrugging, the principal sighed. "His parents already accepted the suspension."

Nodding Optimus sighed quietly. "I see." Standing together, Optimus and Principal VanDell shook hands. Sighing Optimus nodded respectively. "Thank you for your cooperation Mr. VanDell, I appreciate it."

Sitting again, VanDell shrugged. "I guess, we'll see Cole on Saturday."

…

Later, after they climbed into the truck…there was a long pause before Cole sighed. "I'm sorry Optimus." Looking up through his good eye, Cole tried to hide his teary eyes. "I didn't mean to get into a fight with Steven."

Looking at Cole, Optimus sighed. "What happened?"

Sitting back in the seat, Cole looked away. "Mr. VanDell already told you what happened."

Looking away, Optimus shrugged. "That is true, but I want to know what happened from you."

Staring at the floor, Cole sighed. "Steven slammed my locker shut when I was getting my stuff, then asked me what I was doing. I didn't answer and started to walk away when he started walking behind me with his friends behind him and they were all talking about how I was having problems reading in English class this afternoon, so I must be mentally retarded. Then Steve told his friends that I should be in a special education class because I was so stupid and…" Looking up at Optimus Cole tried his hardest not to cry. "…and I hit him. Then he and his friends dragged me into the boy's bathroom and beat the crap out of me. Out of all of us, I'm the one that got the worst."

For some time, Optimus was silent. Not saying a word he started the truck which within a short period of time, slowly started to inch forward.

The minutes dragged on like hours, and Cole couldn't help but wonder if Optimus was mad at him.

Gazing out the window, Cole sighed. "are you going to tell mom?"

Staring out the windshield, Optimus sighed. "I'm sure she already knows Cole. After all the school called her before they called me."

Looking at Cole, Optimus smiled gently trying to relieve the pain written on his face. As they came to a red stop light, resting a hand on his leg, Optimus smiled out of the corner of his eye. Cole looked up.

With a quiet chuckle, Optimus smiled warmly. "If you do not want me to bring it up to your mother, I won't. But that just means you have to."

Looking away slowly, Cole nodded saying nothing.

Once the light turned green, Optimus stepped on the accelerator, continuing down that rather quiet road.

After some time passed, Cole looked up at Optimus with a look of curiosity. "Where's Kira?"

Sighing Optimus rolled his shoulders. "She's still at her school. I asked her teacher to keep her there in their daycare program until I could retrieve her."

Cole looked away nodding, falling silent for another few minutes.

Sighing Cole looked up again suddenly. "Today is yours and mom's second year anniversary, isn't it?"

Smiling Optimus nodded. "Yes it is."

Smiling sheepishly Cole tilted his head. "Have you gotten mom a present?"

Continuing to nod, Optimus chuckled. "I've gotten her three presents. She has already received one of her presents, the other two I will bestow upon her later this evening."

Smiling Cole looked away. "Optimus, have you ever thought about asking mom to marry you?"

Opening his eyes wide, Optimus looked at Cole, bewildered. Cole looked up smiling with a shrug. "I'm just saying I'm sure she'd say yes if you asked her, and I know Kira would love it if you adopted her."

Looking away, Optimus chuckled loudly. "And what would you think if I asked your mother to marry me?"

Looking away Cole smiled. "I'd like it. It would make mom happy and it would make Kira happy. Mom would have someone to love her forever and Kira—."

Looking at Cole as the pulled in to a stop in front of the elementary school, Optimus smiled warmly. "What Cole?"

Looking up Cole tried to smile without letting tears show. "And I think Kira would like it just as much as I would if we had someone we could call dad."

Staring at Cole for a long time, Optimus slowly smiled…but said nothing. Opening his door, Optimus climbed out leaving Cole in the truck.

Cole watched as Optimus rounded the front of truck coming around to the passenger side door. Opening it, Optimus moved inside, unbuckled Cole's seat belt and sighed. Looking at Cole with a warm gentle smile, Optimus cooed. "Cole, I think I just might have to do that."

Looking up, Cole stared up at Optimus with bewildered eyes. "Are you serious?"

Nodding, Optimus cooed. "I am. However, I think I'll need you to help me keep it a secret. Do you think you could help me with this task?"

Smiling, Cole nodded. "Yeah, Optimus I'll do that."

Lifting Cole's chin up, Optimus cooed. "And there's one more thing Cole…"

Looking up Cole sighed. "What?"

Gently placing his forehead against Cole's, Optimus closed his eyes and purred softly. "Would you possibly consider, allowing me to adopt you and your little sister?"

Looking up Cole slowly started to cry as he leaned in against Optimus. He did not speak, for the tears of happiness where too much.

Laughing softly, Optimus cooed as he rubbed Cole's back. "It's okay Cole. It's okay."

Pulling Cole away from his chest so he could see his face, Optimus chuckled softly. "Just, don't tell Kira or your mother about my plans just yet, okay? I want it to be a surprise. Could you help me with this?"

Nodding Cole smiled. "Yeah Optimus, I can do that."

Shrugging, Optimus smiled pulling a small box out of his pocket. "I've already moved one step in that direction, but I still need you to be quiet about it, okay?"

Looking at Optimus in awe, Cole remained silent. He was going to ask her to marry him all along?!

Smirking Cole huffed. Optimus was evil. He was planning on doing this the whole time.

Sighing Optimus sat up and looked toward the school then at Cole. "What do you say we go get your sister and go home? I need to beat your mother home so that I can get things prepared before she gets there."

Laughing Cole nodded. "Yeah…let's go get Kira. I'm sure she wants to go home too."

Chuckling Optimus nodded, stepping aside to let Cole jump out of the truck and shut the door. "Home…now that sounds like a good place to be."

…

…

After Optimus cleaned the dishes from Cole and Kira's supper, he urged them to bathe, brush their teeth and scamper off to bed.

Scowling Kira huffed, sitting up in her bed as Optimus tucked her in. "Why do we have to go to sleep? Why can't we have supper with you and mommy?"

Looking at Kira, Optimus chuckled softly. "Because I need to have some time alone with your mother so that I can talk to her about some important things."

Lying down to let Optimus tuck her in, Kira yawned. "What kind of important things?"

Smiling Optimus shrugged casually. "Important things."

Scowling, Kira jutted out her bottom lip and huffed. "I want to know about what you and mommy are going to talk about."

Chuckling, Optimus gently tapped Kira's nose with his finger. "Sometimes, adults need to talk about adult things, and don't like younger children nosing in."

With a huff Kira fell silent, but soon after yawned tiredly. "Will you tell me about what you and mommy talked about tomorrow?"

Smiling, Optimus gently gave Kira an Eskimo kiss. "Maybe…maybe not. Now…go to sleep Kira. I will see you in the morning."

Retuning the Eskimo kiss with an added hug, Kira smiled. "Goodnight Opmus. Love you."

Gently kissing Kira on the forehead Optimus cooed. "Goodnight Kira. I love you too."

Getting up, Optimus walked over to the wall making sure that Kira's night light was on before walking over to turn out the light.

Shutting the door, Optimus made sure Cole was in bed before turning off the light to his room and shutting his door.

With a sigh, Optimus then retreated to the kitchen and got started on making his and Jacklyn's evening meal. He only had a limited amount of time before she got home, and he wanted everything to be perfect.

…

…

When Jacklyn walked in the door, she dropped her keys and purse on the ground with a groan.

"Optimus?"

Taking off her jacket, she groaned and sighed. "Optimus, you here? I need help getting those roses you sent me out of the back of my truck."

Turning around she sighed tiredly again. "Optimus?"

Suddenly Jacklyn stopped and sighed in awe. "Oh…Optimus…"

Looking around, Jacklyn was in awe at the sight she saw, the room was dark with the exception of candles lit on every table and shelf. Walking farther into the apartment, into the kitchen, where she smiled in admiration and whispered. "Oh Optimus Prime…you devil…"

The table was set for two, with candles in the center, and the food already served. Shaking her head she smiled. Optimus was a real gentleman.

"I was beginning to wonder when you were coming home…"

Turning around Jacklyn laughed and covered her mouth, trying to hide her blushing cheeks. "Well, hello to you too."

Leaning against the frame of the kitchen doorway, Optimus, wearing simply a black t shirt and jeans, smiled mischievously. "I was beginning to think I would have to dine by myself."

Crossing her arms Jacklyn smiled. "No…I would never do that to you."

Walking up behind Jacklyn, Optimus breathed slowly rubbing his nose against her neck, smelling her natural fragrance. Pushing back against him, she laughed quietly. "So…what is on the menu tonight?"

Purring, Optimus whispered. "Your favorite, Shrimp lo Mein."

Sighing lovingly, Jacklyn laughed softly. "Oh Optimus…you know me so well." Looking at Optimus, Jacklyn smiled and pressed her dainty finger on Optimus' nose smiling. "Just let me get out of these scrubs and into something more decent."

…

…

After a wonderful meal, Optimus and Jacklyn laid together in the silence of the living room with nothing more but candle light, Jacklyn's roses –that Optimus retrieved from Jacklyn's truck while she was changing- Champaign and each other's company. Lying beside one another on the couch, they just talked, whispering sweet nothings to one another, talking about every good things that has happened, is happening and could happen.

Watching her laugh, Optimus couldn't help but feel his heart swell whenever he was around her. She was his woman, and he was her man. The love for her…for this female…this woman was more than anything, stronger than any feeling he'd ever had before. When he looked at her, when he was with her, he didn't have to pretend to be something he wasn't. He could be his true self…and she was he true self. No matter what life through at her, she always stayed true to what she believed she needed to be and that's what he loved about her. They were one of the same kind. They both were birds of a feather. They were a unified pair…or at least…they could be.

Looking down at Jacklyn, Optimus brushed the locks of hair hanging in her eyes and smiled. "You know…I have given you two gifts this evening…"

Laughing Jacklyn sighed. "I think you've given me more than that."

Looking away Jacklyn sighed lovingly. Optimus was perfect in every way, and she loved him. But how was she going to tell him about the news?

Chuckling Optimus moved out from under Jacklyn. There was something he'd been waiting to ask her all night.

Watching Optimus, Jacklyn laughed. "Optimus what are you doing?"

Standing up, Optimus turned to Jacklyn and smiled. "Jacklyn, tell me honestly…how do you feel about me?"

Sitting up Jacklyn smiled sheepishly with a shrug. "Honestly…I love you." Looking up at Optimus she smiled lovingly. "I love you more than I've ever loved anyone."

Looking away, Jacklyn sighed. She needed to tell Optimus.

Just then Optimus kneeled in front of Jacklyn smiling warmly and lovingly. "Jacklyn, do you know how I feel about you?"

Slowly Jacklyn shook her head no. Optimus smiled looking at her with eyes so loving. "Jacklyn, I love you more than life itself, and these past couple years have been nothing short of paradise. I love you. I love you more than anything else that I've ever loved before…"

Taking Jacklyn's hands in his, Optimus purred lovingly. "Jacklyn…my…sweet, beautiful Jacklyn…not a day goes by that I don't wish you were in my past…but I thank higher powers everyday that you are my present…and now I pray you'll be my future."

Shaking her head slightly, Jacklyn hesitated. Was Optimus—?

Smiling so warmly Optimus cooed. "I love you Jacklyn. I will always love you, and so long as you need me…I'll always be here, only two steps behind."

Slowly, pulling a small box out from his pocket, Optimus breathed in hard. "Jacklyn—."

Suddenly Jacklyn's eyes grew wide and she covered her mouth with a hand. He was doing it.

With the most loving, caring, and most gentle smile, Optimus purred. "Jacklyn…will you marry me?" Just then, Optimus opened the box to reveal a beautiful diamond ring that glistened in the candle light.

She was lost for words.

Did…did Optimus really just ask what she thought he asked? Did he really just ask those four words? The words she never thought she'd hear ever again?

Looking at Optimus she breathed hard, trying to hold back the tears of joy. Looking into his eyes, she could see that he really meant what he was asking. The truth of it was in his eyes.

He really did love her.

Slowly…Jacklyn nodded smiling, letting a tear run down her cheek. Chocking she nodded. "Y-Yes. Yes Optimus…Yes."

Optimus slowly nodded smiling…laughing. "Okay…"

Pulling Jacklyn into a tight embrace, Optimus sighed a breath of relief. It was only a matter of time now, before Jacklyn was truly his.

"YAHOO! OPMUS AND MOMMY ARE GETTING MARRIED!"

"KIRA!"

Just then out of nowhere, Kira came running up into Optimus' arms. "Mommy and Opmus are getting married Cole! Opmus and Mommy are getting married!"

Laughing Optimus looked at Jacklyn who was also laughing. "Apparently putting them to bed at nine wasn't enough."

Laughing Jacklyn got up hugging Optimus and Kira. "Oh well, they were bound to find out sooner or later."

Stretching Cole grinned as he turned on the living room lights. "Oh I already knew about it. Optimus told me about his plan this afternoon."

Scowling playfully, Jacklyn looked at Optimus out of the corner of her eye. "Oh really?"

Shrugging casually Optimus just smiled and looked at Kira. Then he laughed having suddenly remember another part of his and Cole's conversation from earlier today. "That reminds me…"

Looking at Kira, Optimus beamed with a smile. "Kira, I already talked to your brother about this and he was not opposed, so I will ask you—."

Setting her hands on Optimus chest, Kira looked at him with a look of puzzlement. "What?"

Smiling Optimus sighed. "Kira, since I'm going to marry your mother…what would you think of my…adopting…you and your brother?"

Smiling warmly Jacklyn laughed. "Oh Optimus."

Looking down with her brows furrowed, Kira sighed. "So…does that mean that…you would…be me and Cole's daddy from now on?"

Smiling…Optimus slowly nodded. "Yes I suppose. If that's what you want Kira."

Staring off Kira thought about it then smiled. "I would like that a lot Opmus. I've always wanted a daddy. And I'm glad it's gonna be you."

Pulling Optimus into a tight embrace, Kira giggled. "In a way you're already my daddy."

Letting his eyes slowly shut, Optimus pulled Kira's cheek against his and breathed softly. Slowly walking up, Cole hugged Optimus, to which Optimus hugged back.

Watching, Jacklyn felt as though everything was perfect then suddenly remembered. She had something she needed to tell him. A gift she needed to give.

"Optimus."

Looking up Optimus, nodded. "Yes Jacklyn?"

Walking over to her purse, Jacklyn kneeled grabbing a large yellow envelope out of the purse's folds. Walking over to Optimus, she smiled sheepishly, even stuttered slightly. "y-You remember how I told you this afternoon that I had a present for you?"

Setting Kira down, Optimus nodded. "Of course I remember. You said that it was a present that could change the course of our lives."

Nodding Jacklyn looked at the envelope, hesitated for but a moment then slowly handed Optimus the envelope. Taking it, Optimus looked at Jacklyn with a look of curiosity then looked at the envelope chuckling. "What is this?"

As he fumbled to open the envelope, Jacklyn laughed half heartedly. "You'll find out soon enough."

Passing a quick glance at Jacklyn, Optimus finally managed to open the envelope.

Optimus slowly pulled out a small piece of glossy photo paper with an image portraying splotches of black, white and grey in a somewhat upside-down 'V' shape with a scale of some kind to the right. Printed on the top of the picture was: Helm, Jacklyn, 19368447, 11/09/2012, 03:14:27PM, along with various other letters and numbers that Optimus didn't understand.

Looking at Jacklyn with udder bewilderment, Optimus paused. What was this image he was staring at? And in what way, shape or form could it change his life forever.

Licking his lips, Optimus looked at Jacklyn, puzzled. "Jacklyn…what is this?"

Swaying slightly, Jacklyn tried to smile. "It's an ultrasound Optimus. I was supposed to have a shot this afternoon for the flu. All nurses were, but after I had a dizzy spell, my friend and head nurse Janae Robinson took me into an examination room and took some blood as well as performed some…other tests."

Taking Optimus by the arms, Jacklyn slowly looked up into his eyes, smiling with warm gentle intent. "Optimus…I'm pregnant."

…

Do you know the feeling of being hit upside the head by the barrel of an energon blaster?

Not many individuals do…but at that moment…at that very moment when Jacklyn gave the news that she was pregnant…that's close to the same feeling Optimus felt.

No words could really describe the amount shock and awe that he was feeling. His mouth was open, but for some reason or another, no words could come out.

She was…pregnant? Pregnant as in the human term for bearing young?

Turning away, Optimus covered his mouth, eyes wide still trying to make sense of the words Jacklyn just said.

She was pregnant.

Pulling all the hair back out of his eyes, Optimus breathed hard. Was this real? Was what he heard really true?

"Optimus? Are you okay?"

Turning around, Optimus continued to hold his hand over his mouth, before finally dragging his hand down, pulling skin with it.

Sitting on the couch with a loud thud, Optimus was dumbstruck. She was pregnant as in going to have a baby?

"Optimus, say something…please."

Looking up to meet Jacklyn's gaze which was full of concern, Optimus breathed the words. "You're… pregnant?"

Nodding slowly Jacklyn grinned stupidly. "Yeah…I am."

Leaning back Optimus fell quiet, then said the only word he could. "huh…"

Looking at Cole, Kira beamed happily. "Mommy's having another baby! How cool is that?"

Smiling sheepishly, Cole nodded. "That's pretty cool. Mom and Optimus are getting married AND their getting a new baby. That is pretty cool."

Sitting next to Optimus, Jacklyn smiled sheepishly. "Optimus…a-are you going to be okay?"

For the longest time Optimus didn't say a word, he just stared at his hands.

Putting one of her hand on Optimus', Jacklyn cooed. "Optimus, are you going to be okay?"

Looking up, Optimus' face remained blank…then…he raised his brows in surprise. "Jacklyn…I have only one thing to say…"

Chuckling softly, Jacklyn tilted her head. "And what's that honey?"

Looking up, Optimus smiled the best he could, and even snorted a laughed. "This is one heck of an anniversary present."

…

…

…

As Optimus lay in bed that night with Jacklyn sound asleep beside him, he could help but think about the everything that happened that night.

He purposed.

He took the first steps in adopting Cole and Kira.

AND he was informed that the was going to be a father to the child Jacklyn now carried within her.

As the humans would say…today…was a hell of a day.

A lot of things have happened today…important things…

But in all honesty, Optimus wasn't quite sure if everything conspiring was completely…good.

Yes, the proposal was good. He loved Jacklyn. He loved her more than anything, and making her his wife at this point was defiantly something he wanted.

Adopting Cole and Kira as his children, that was good too. He knew them and he knew just how much they cared about him, and they knew how much he cared about them.

But…having a baby?

A new baby…

His young…

His very flesh and blood…now resided; was growing inside of Jacklyn. She was going to be the mother of his offspring. Who would have thought that this…of all things should happen?

Looking over at Jacklyn, and then at Jacklyn's abdomen, Optimus released a long, quiet sigh.

Nothing now could change the fact that Jacklyn IS pregnant. But accepting that may prove to be hard.

Not by any means would it be impossible, but difficult.

Laying his head against the pillow, Optimus watched Jacklyn breathe gently and couldn't help but smile a little bit. Jacklyn was doing this and from all indications felt no regret, but instead showed a sence of pride. Was she happy about this? Because that was how she seemed to behave earlier that night.

Was she truly prideful of carrying his young within her?

Closing his eyes, Optimus sighed trying to fall asleep.

Now life was getting complicated…

…

…

Though it was in the dead of night, the city of Phoenix still rumbled like a busy beehive. Then, in an alley somewhere in the business district, a strange blue and green light emanated from an alley way.

A cat hissed and screeched, knocking over a trash came running into an empty street.

Then there was silence.

"No. No. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooo oo!"

Grabbing a partially shattered mirror, A man in his late twenties, perhaps early thirties breathed out hard, watching as the vapor of his breath drifted through the cool night air. His fiery red hair casually loomed over his eyes. Eyes that were dark red with slight hints of yellow. His jacket was red glossy leather with yellow details on the shoulders and sleeves.

It was Knockout…and he was human.

Shaking his head, staring at the mirror in horror, Knockout stuttered. "T-This can't be?! How can this be? H-How have I become HUMAN?!"

"Commander Knockout, sir…"

Looking over his shoulder, Knockout saw three identical humans with red sunglasses and purple and black hoodies with silver bandanas covering their mouths.

One of them looked at the others before looking at Knockout "Sir, what happened to us?!"

Growling Knockout stood kicking the mirror, shattering it even more. "That's what I would like to find out." He hissed, looking down the alley. "Place a marker so that we can find our way back to these coordinates."

A humanized vehicon did as he was told, hiding a strange looking device behind a trash can.

With a growl, Knockout wearily walked forward, then busted into a sprint. "Come on; let's go find us a Prime."

….*****….