for the 100 theme challenge - link on my profile for more.
I've been reading too many OP x Starscream fanfics.

Keeping a Secret

It started as a desperate attempt to steal him from their side.

It started as need, because it was truthful, the Autobots needed him in order to regain their strength. They could do with only him, because they knew that as soon as he was on their side; the others would follow. Seekers, that is.

Optimus was sure that it would not be an easy task, and as usual, he was right in that aspect. Meeting with Starscream and trusting the Seeker enough to come alone was, at first, a difficult task. Even getting a moment of his time when Megatron was so constantly keeping him away. Megatron had his attention on Optimus and the leader couldn't risk a moment of exposure trying to steal the Air Commander.

Prowl had attacked Starscream whilst the other stood far away from firing shot, but not enough to hide from the Autobots. Prowl had held him down by his servos and told Starscream the co-ordinates, time and rules of their meeting and if the Seeker refused: he would come by force (not Prime's words, but enough to worry the Seeker).

The truth was, Starscream had speed. Power. Intelligence that he was wasting with the Decepticons; and even he knew it. Prime needed that power - needed that power to protect his team and his friends. To protect the humans. Starscream had everything they needed - and three Seekers together would just be an added bonus for the Autobots.

Prime had devised many meetings with the Seeker; and none of them had gone according to plan. The first had been Starscream laying down his own rules, then being ordered by his leader - via their comm. link - that he return to base to devise a new plan against the Autobots; and with that he had left Prime startled.

Their second meeting had been Optimus speaking and Starscream listening, butting in on the occasion but silencing himself when Prime had started his compliments. Starscream took off in silence and Optimus did not push the matter further. Starscream returned the next human day to discuss his rules, little as they were, and Prime had listened.

Their fourth meeting had been one of shock. Starscream had flown in and landed on the Autobot leader, wings clumsy and broken and Optimus had taken him somewhere secure to fix the wings - even to Starscream's dislike and warning that Megatron would find out. Prime had stopped automatically and had started to pet his wings.

Their fifth meeting was no meeting; but an interface. The only meeting was that of their sparks before Starscream took of, shaking and clumsy. Optimus had watched him in shock before he retreated back to base with many questions pushed his way. Optimus ignored each of them, replaying each sinful memory back in his processor.

Their sixth meeting was one of questions, and shortly after those questions, another interface followed.

It started as a need for power.

Optimus never intended to fall in love with the Seeker.