(Please see all previous disclaimers)
Lancex and Aquaformer proved to be good soldiers for the Autobots over multiple battles. But it was not without risk, and after the most recent battle, Aquaformer and Lancex had suffered damge, with Aquaformer appearing to suffer more as Lancex had a way to heal faster than most bots, though he still ended up in the med. And while both were being tended to, other bits had started noticing things.
One of this bots was Ironhide. He had noticed Optimus acting differently around Lancex, though it was only something that would be noticed by someone very close to the Prime, like Hide was. Prime was in his office, trying to figure out what had occurred and to try and keep his mind off the fact that Lancex had been injured this time. "Rachel said both would be good to go in a short time, especially Lancex" Hide brought up, startling the Prime. But he quickly regained his composure.
"Is that so?" Optimus, his voice slightly off to Hide.
"Yeah, Lancex is almost all healed, while Aquaformer will have to stay for a bit but will be back to her usual self soon" Hide stated, noticing the reaction Optimus had to both names. It was clear to Hide that Optimus had feelings for Lancex. "So why you so jumpy around Lancex or whenever his name is mentioned, Prime?" Optimus didn't answer right away, but did unconsciously blush. Hide knew he hit pay dirt. "Admit it, Prime. You have fallen for him" Hide prodded.
Optimus tried to be defiant, but Hide knew him better than that. "My spark has had a strange reaction around him… something I haven't felt since…" Optimus got to before being interrupted.
"Elita? She is long gone Prime. You can't be alone forever. No bot deserves that, Prime or not" Hide offered up. Optimus merely nodded. Hide was right, though Optimus couldn't bring himself to admit it. Hide knew then he had hit the nail on the head. Optimus had fallen for Lancex. "All I will say Is that you best be careful in approaching him. He seems skittish and not easily trusting of bots." Optimus agreed, Lancex wouldn't be easy to get to know. Optimus could only hope he had a chance.