Fluttering his eyes open, Sam's eyes yielded to the light. First thing he questioned was when did his bed get so warm? Second thing to come to his mind was when he had received a new body pillow. Thinking it was nothing but his imaginations, he dropped his eyelids, reaching further for the warmth. His hands grabbing something firm while the second hand felt something that made him blink awake. It was… fuzzy? He didn't know how he could describe it. It as if he was brushing through… hair.

His eyes now widened as he lowered the gaze down to the hand that rested behind a head. A head that had raven-black hair. He was now fully awake at the thought of who it was that slept in his bed, who that was burying themselves in his chest, and who it was that he was snuggling up to. An impulse wanted him to scream, jolt out of bed or kick the other person out. Luckily, the rational part of his head kept him from doing so.

Instead, his mind pushed him up to speed with the present. A week ago he had himself awoken from a small coma, which made the night last even longer when he named his attacker and when Orion had returned from confronting Elita. From how the Prime acted the days after, it revealed that he wasn't fully ready to forget that Elita was once his mate. Sam, the leader's now current mate, noticed this and was quick to act. Though his actions were to comfort the Prime, it wasn't entirely thought through when he invited Optimus Prime to sleep with him when he was out of the cast. His face when hearing the offer could rival the Sun in the day sky. From there on, Sam knew he had just put his foot in his mouth.

Which brings us to the present, Orion curling quietly into Sam's chest while they were given a single queen-sized bed. At first, Ratchet disapproved of the idea and was shining his wrench. But after checking on Sam's readings, he was surprised to see Sam was almost near full recovery. The bruises on his wrist and shoulder having disappeared halfway through the week while his neck completing its healing phase by the end of the week. Okay, he may have lightened how the doctor reacted. Not surprise, more like… flabbergasted.

So when he was finally discharged from the med bay on a wheelchair, he was nervous to find Optimus escorting him to a room he had prepared for the two. It was simple. White walls, carpeted floor with everything they'd both need including a kitchen, bathroom, lounge, and bedroom. It was modelled almost exactly the same as the Witwicky's previous accommodation. Just a few things different that Orion needed as well like his own desk and another shelf for his work.

All of those were the last thing on Sam's mind as the mental image of Optimus and Sam sharing the same bed was broad in his head. Luckily, God spared him many more nights with his pride as they only turned to cuddling for their first night.

Now he laid awake at 7 in the morning while an unconscious Autobots snuggled to his stomach for comfort, tickling Sam a little when he'd breathe out. It had seemed fine for the moment, but things were about to grow serious in a few hours. That being because of the punishment Optimus gave out last week. Today was the day Elita and Lumos Aria was leaving.

Looking down at the holoform, for a moment Sam had wished that the Cybertronian hadn't woken up. Ever. It was a foolish and selfish thought. But, how else was he supposed to keep any more pain from being inflicted if Orion had the chance of returning to a living hell every day he awoke. And it wasn't only the Prime who was still feeling hurt.

Two days before the party where he had met Elita at the library, what she said that time might've been right. They were clinging to the Autobots too hard. After all the remnants of Decepticons on the planet had been found, would they stay? Or would they leave? Staying meant the governments would only drag them into the next war, or wars, they encounter. Leaving meant Sam would have to say goodbye again. The pain was obvious in both outcomes, and Sam wanted neither. The image of them having to say goodbye again strained his heart.

The pain becoming pricks to his heart as he reached for comfort. Unknowingly, he accidentally reached for the Prime's head. This had stirred the leader awake, the teen releasing his grip to sit up. The college student fumbled back while the Prime stretched and pushed up. Orion stared the human as if in a daze before he investigated his surroundings. Sam could only watch anxiously while Optimus pieced his memories together like Samuel had.

Finally recognising the world as reality, a smile plastered Orion's face as he dropped back down into the bed, drawing his arms around the young adult. Unfortunately, this had caused a surprised yelp from Sam when he was pulled back down.

"O-Orion!"

"Shh… A few more kliks…" The Prime shushed, nuzzling his nose into Sam's neck before taking a small whiff. The human shook when he felt the contact.

"Orion, we need to get up!"

"It's a Saturday, Samuel. A few more minutes wouldn't hurt. Besides," The Prime looked up to meet the human's eyes, his own gleaming with a bit of desire. "You promised me that'd you'd stay with me until the afternoon the day after."

Shit. He had hoped Optimus would've forgotten that. Luckily, he had already planned a comeback for it. "I promised you that I'd stay until the afternoon because Ratchet would kill me if I don't check-in with him. And don't forget we still have that 'plan' on tonight."

"He won't if I get you there by 11:59. Even then, he can't while you're under my jurisdiction."

Sam gave a sarcastic look to his beloved. "You make it sound like you're the messiah."

Orion only returned with an even broader grin. "I wouldn't know. Am I one?"

"… Shut up…"

"Not a chance." Orion took pleasure in watching the Witwicky's head turn pink as he leaned up for a quick peck of the lips. And as he fell back down, his hands took the moment to explore the young adult's body. Sliding up and down a few areas that made Sam gasp for air.

"Hey, hands off the merchandise!"

"Morning Ratchet."

The doctor looked up from the data-pad he'd been studying the past few days to find the holoform of Mirage entering. Setting down the device, he turned his attention to the Autobot. "Morning. Was there something you needed?"

"Solace for my breakfast. The twins are causing a ruckus in the dining hall." He held up the cubes as evidence and entered the room.

"Which?"

"Both."

Ratchet gave a look that told anyone that he was annoyed and was not in the mood for immaturity. But for this one occasion, he allowed it. Just as long as the mech doesn't make a mess or a fuss. Besides, he knows very well himself the annoyance one set of Cybertronian twins can cause. Both was just plain insanity. "Suit yourself." He said, pulling the data-pad back up and continuing where he left off.

"So what are you looking at this time?" The red-haired holoform asked, taking a seat on a stool while he rested the energon cubes on his lap. Picking one up, he plopped the material into his mouth and began chewing quietly. His hand offered one towards the Ratchet, but it was silently declined before the answer.

"The readings I got from Samuel. Something isn't right with it." The medic stated, not even throwing a second glance.

Mirage swallowed his food, picking up another for his next bite. "Why? You discharged him right? Does that not mean he's fully recovered?"

"That's the problem. He's fully recovered. Look here," Ratchet flipped the device over so the red mech could read. Mirage squinted and looked closely at the readings. A few graphs, pictures and other notes typed into it that all suggested that the Witwicky made a sound recovery.

"I don't understand. Shouldn't it be a good thing that he's healed? He'd been through a lot during his time with us."

"Yes, but not this quickly." Mirage raised a brow to how his confusion before Ratchet began explaining, tapping away at the device as well. Unknown to him, he had begun speaking a second faster during the summary. "From what I've collected the night he was attacked, it should've been months before his neck could heal and weeks longer for the bruises to fade. All at least 3 times the amount he has been given would be needed to heal that fast."

"I still don't get it."

Ratchet groaned and gave sigh before going a little more in depth. He'd thought that the mech at least knew basic knowledge of the human anatomy by now, like he had asked most of the Autobots to learn. "Unlike us, humans have millions of cells making up the body. Humans heal by having these cells divide, therefore creating skin tissue, blood and organs. If Sam has healed this fast, that means his cells have increased their multiplication at a rapid state. When they do that, they age faster and humans lose time in their life. If this continues, he might be losing months, years in his life. You understand yet?"

Mirage pulled his hands up in defence. "Alright. I get it. So we need to fix this somehow, right?"

"That's the thing. There is nothing to fix. The scans and readings I've conducted show that his cells are dividing as quick as any other human. No abnormalities, no chemicals or fake tissue found. It's like he's being healed by another source entirely."

"But how can that be possible?"

"I don't know… But, take a look at this." Once more turning the data-pad around, he revealed an image.

"Uhh, what am I looking at Ratchet?"

"That, my friend, is one Sam's cell. But that's not what's special about it. What's special about it is the readings it's giving off."

Pulling the device back for a quick moment, he now pulled up two graphs side-by-side before presenting it. When Mirage inspected each, he found that they were near similar with each other. Except for a few fluctuations, they were almost identical to each other. "The first reading is off the small amounts of energy within the cell."

Mirage was sceptical to ask his next question. "… And the second?"

"… It is what we used get from the Allspark."

After a few minutes of banter, the human-Cybertronian couple finally stepped out of bed. One taking to the bathroom for a nice shower while the other had begun cooking breakfast in the kitchen. Sam ate the pancakes provided by the Prime and Orion chewed quietly on the energon cubes he had stored within a small compartment of the room. They didn't stay long as they ate, cleaned up and headed out of the room.

A thought struck Samuel as he closed the door. Something he had missed in the past few weeks that he had forgotten to ask for a while.

"Umm, Orion?"

"Hmm?"

"When did you learn to kiss?" He asked, realising that just until Christmas had this topic come up. And if he already knew how to, could he have at least saved him the embarrassment that night? A smile brightened on the Prime's face before he answered with an amused tone.

"It might not look like it Sam, but we Autobots have our own 'homework' every moment or so. It was about during the time we were watching the movie during the holiday. I might've slipped away from the movie to study on human interactions. For… educational purposes, I mean." Orion explained.

Sam stared incredulously at the leader. But soon, his own lips curved up. "I don't know if I should feel embarrassed or sweetened by that, but, good to know." Samuel said, giving an approving hum to the Prime. Then another thought crossed his mind. One that had him raise his voice a little.

"Wait, was that why you reached for my hand that time?"

Optimus felt his holoform heat up as he tried maintaining his cool composure. "… I will not deny that a part of me wanted to see your reaction when I did so. But, during that time, I believe my spark had already begun pulsating for you." Orion admitted, feeling a bit embarrassed himself.

The embarrassment soon faded as he watches his beloved pout and puff his cheeks, turning on his feet and beginning a slow walk.

"At least I know someone was enjoying my suffering."

Orion barely got it, but there was a joking tone in the Witwicky's voice. A chuckle resonated from his throat as he walked a slightly quicker pace to catch up to Samuel. "Now that isn't really fair of you to say." He commented, Sam looking over his shoulder with a brow raised. "From what I've studied, humans tend to shy away from the immediate contact of skin. But you didn't. Even more, you allowed me to hold your hand."

Sam got the idea of where the conversation was turning, feeling blood run up his head. Orion's grin only grew more when he watched the human changes shades of red faster than Ironhide and Ratchet could form an argument. One more push shouldn't hurt. "Does that not imply that you had wanted me to do so?"

Sam stuttered out his next response. "I-I didn't h-have a choice! I froze up b-because the one I loved was suddenly holding m-my hand!"

The Prime laughed lightly at the reaction, seeing his lover scowl at him with a beet red face was priceless. When the humour died down, a dark thought bubbled inside Optimus' processor, his smile dropping considerably into a flat line across his face. Hesitantly, he asked the question that had bugged him as well.

"… Was that what happened with Bumblebee…?"

The Autobot grew worried when the Witwicky stopped in his tracks, pausing in silence for a moment, then exploding into a red, flustered mess the next. A number of questions were thrown at him, then morphing into arguments and reasoning on what had actually happened. A few of them were conjured up stories to explain what had happened without giving away the knowledge of Bee's affections.

Orion listened for an entire minute as his beloved tried to explain before he used his hands to catch both of the human's wrists, which were being used most of the explanation. Sam found him silenced by a pair of lips on his. It was long enough for the Witwicky to lose himself in the moment and his thought process as well, even after the kiss had ended and the Cybertronian had pulled back. They stared at each other for a short while before Orion began talking, releasing Sam's hand in the process.

"Ratchet informed me of what he saw that night… Samuel, I want you to understand that I won't look at you any differently if you find other interests. I'd always see someone whom I love, not someone who I expect to love me back."

Sam felt his heart tighten in his chest as the guilt bore down upon him. "Orion, I do love you… It's not that I like Bee or anything, but…" His eyes suddenly felt attracted to the corner of the corridor, just feeling as if staring at it would be better than looking back to his partner. Samuel shook his head and continued from where he trailed away. "No, I'm sorry… If I had known you'd find out about what happened, I'd have told you that it wasn't anything like that, that night."

"Samuel, I think I know what you're thinking, but let me confirm it." Sam turned up to meet the Autobots eyes. It showed little emotion behind it, but what Sam could see was uncertainty. "Does Bumblebee hold feelings for you… as well?"

A prick struck the human's heart again. He didn't want to say anything without the scout's permission, but when under the leader's gaze, it was nigh impossible to lie. So silently, he bobbed his head before looking away again. Another question came from the Prime; this time Sam didn't need to watch his face to answer. "And how long have you known about this?"

"… It was between the time when Elita had arrived and when I had holed myself up in my room for a few days. He confessed and I felt like I was being torn apart. I loved you, but with Elita back and Bumblebee confessing to me, I… I don't know... I didn't know what to do and thought it'd be better if I just left…"

It was a good thing Sam hadn't been watching Optimus' expression as the holoform was now the one holding a face of remorse. He was arrogant to think that Sam hadn't any complications with his emotions. He was also arrogant to miss the fact that there was another reason why his beloved had wanted to leave. Why couldn't he see it before? It's like Sam had said during the time; he was too caught up in the return of his mate. Without further thought, Orion approached Samuel and closed his arms around the young adult, surprising said human when his head rested on brown hair.

"I'm sorry. I was foolish to think that you were okay when you returned. Especially after the way you left was so sudden. It's my fault for being so caught up in my own pleasure to forget about you. It doesn't matter if you had feelings for Bee. I know he'd have been a much more ideal mate rather than me-"

"Orion, stop there." Optimus muted himself and they pulled apart only a few inches. "I do love Bee as a best friend, or maybe even a brother. But, the one thing is that I 'love' you. As my mate, Orion." Sam leaned his head up for another kiss. As always, a chaste one. No other emotion conveyed other than love and adoration. Quick and short.

The kind smile returned back on the Prime. "And I, as well, love you, Samuel." His hand brushed down the human's face, Sam leaned into the touch before pulling away. They shared one last smile before turning back to the path they walked.

A few hours later…

The Autobots and soldiers of NEST watched as the Lumos Aria took off the ground and rose higher and higher. The humans were informed of what had transpired last week, understanding why the crew of femmes were leaving. None could deny the Prime's reasoning as they were more than ticked off with the way Elita had been treating the humans since her stay, as well as the heinous act she committed. None questioned the punishment, nor were they celebrating about it either.

In truth, they were all worried about Elita's crew. They had chosen, of their own wishes, to follow their leader through to the end, even if she hadn't her rank or title as 'captain' any longer. And it was also honourable of them to apologise for actions to both Sam and Optimus. More or less, the former was shy and nervous when tall, female robots bent down to his level just apologise. The only thing that surprised everyone was that Arcee chose to stay. With her fellow sister-bots leaving, they'd all thought that she'd follow. The pink femme reasoned that things have changed and she now has reasons to stay; ties of friendship on the battlefield, she called it. Again, no one argued against her decision.

They had stayed until the ship had left the planet safely, watching as it soon became invisible in the afternoon sky. Making sure the ship left the atmosphere, they soon forwarded back into the buildings, most not wanting to say anything more. A few were glad that Elita was off the planet and away from Sam, but none voiced it. Sam himself was torn between a feeling off that and guilt. At best, he wanted to keep Elita in Orion's life, even if she did hate him to the core. But seeing as it was the Prime's choice, he couldn't argue.

On the way in, Bee decided that it was best to act like any other teenage girl when their friend scores with someone which meant he kept prodding the Witwicky on the subject of what exactly happened last night. A few of the questions a little more embarrassing than Sam had hoped. Luckily, none of the others listened in and were busy speaking with Optimus. But during points of each conversation, they'd smile towards the other.

After an hour of conversing with a few of the others, a few had decided upon some videogame R&R in the rec-room. This included Sam, Bee, Ironhide, and surprisingly, Mirage. Sam didn't know why, but he always imagined the red mech to be more on the 'silent mysterious' type. Not one to join in fun and games like Bee and Jolt. The same could be said about Ironhide, but that was because the human and scout taunted the black mech into playing a few games.

'Once a sucker, always a sucker…' The three thought as he was the one leading the group into the room.

First, the black and red mechs watched Sam and Bee play first, explaining the basic rules and concepts of Super Smash Brawl on the Wii. As well as the controls, they gave quick rundowns of most of the characters until all four had chosen one best suited to them. Sam chose Lucario, Bee went with Link, Ironhide was recommended Snake, and Mirage randomly decided on Falco. The scout and human only explained basic concepts behind each of the games the characters each chose, being careful not get too into it as it would probably overload the other pair.

And with all the summary and revision done, the games begun. Five minutes in, they were all shouting at each other while Ironhide had begun threatening the screen, like he has many other times he had joined Will and Epps in a video game. Mirage was an entirely different story. He learnt the controls in the five minutes they started and was learning how to adapt even faster. In a few more minutes, the weapons specialist's lives were lost and the other two had their lives dwindling down to one… while Mirage remained on four… Without anything better to do, Ironhide began cheering for Mirage to win, hoping to put the two younglings in their place.

All the cheering and shouting drew attention to room. The silver and orange twins joining them in the lounge, along with Ratchet and Lennox. Like 'Hide and Mirage, they watched the first few games to get the gist of it. Soon, the four switched out for the others, allowing all of them an instructor of sort to guide them. Will was fine on his own, so Sam took his side. Sideswipe was a bit lost on the many buttons, Bee heading to the call of aid. Sunstreaker wasn't interested in the game that much but thought he might as well try one of the games humans have invented, so Mirage only watched over him when assistance was needed. With everyone else paired up, they realised who were the last pair, feeling a sense of dread fall over the room.

The game proceeded as smoothly with everyone trying to either learn the controls or remember them. That was until the voices of the CMO and weapons specialist began to intensify. It started with Ironhide giving a few remarks about the doctor's performance, a few comments of the medic's own being thrown back right after, which began the argument. They group had to literally pause the game to identify the situation. Of course Sam had tried to calm them during the game, but he was completely ignored over the loud voices of the other. At times like these, the Witwicky realises how small he is compared to them.

"At least I know which way is up and down!" Ratchet yelled.

"Up and down? You can barely tell which is left and right!" Ironhide returned.

"Guys, can we please-" Sam tried to interfere once more, the two looking to him with dangerous glares.

"Stay out of this boy!" The pair shouted in unison, causing Sam to flinch back into his seat.

The group continued to watch the pair continue their daily routine, turning only when the creaking of the door revealed that someone was entering. All but arguing mechs tensed up in their seats, noticing the one that had just entered was releasing a dark aura that suffocated everyone that looked their way. It only grew more as he walked into the room over to the two shouting Autobots who had yet to realise the presence of their Prime.

In a flurry of movement, Optimus grabbed both the holoform head of Ratchet and Ironhide before slamming them together. The two fell back with a roar of pain as curses came flying out of their mouths instantly. The pair sat back up, ready to murder the one who had the idea of doing that before they observed who it was. Who it was that was sending a dark air around them. And who it was that was doing that while hiding it all behind a fake smile.

They all sweated. "I think it is best now for you two to apologise to Samuel… Now!" The two continued to glare at the Prime, turning their heads as they muttered the same thing.

"… Well someone's wrapped around Sam's finger." Sam poked his head up at the comment and felt the beginnings of a blush taking his face.

"What was that?" Orion questioned, his annoyance spiking.

"You heard us! I'd bet you'd be at his every beck and call!" Ironhide directed an accusing finger at the Prime, Sam now engulfed in a blush as he spoke up next.

"W-What are you talking about?!"

"I'm nothing like that! I'm not that bad!"

"Please, Prime. We all know how you are whenever the subject of Samuel comes up." Ratchet said, Sam feeling like he shouldn't be in the room right now. Forget that, he'd rather curl up in a hole and die before hearing the things they spoke. He didn't know how to express it, but he knew this was a certain form of flattery. And without a single thought process of his going right, a question left his mouth.

"… what is he like…?"

The room turned to him with a baffled stare. The observers of the argument felt their brows twitch up, Ratchet and Ironhide holding their mouths agape as if to say something, and Orion who feigned betrayal at the moment. It took a moment of silence before Ratchet and Ironhide answered the question without any regret with who was standing before them.

"Well, he has this smile on him that'd burn the optics of any who stare too long."

"Not to mention the sickeningly, sweet aura he releases."

"Then he begins to throw compliments and descriptions of how much Primus worked on you."

"Ranting on and on for a few minutes."

"His eyes then twinkling as much as the night sky by the end of all of it."

The two finished with a small nod, a few of the others giving themselves a nod when they confirmed it. Sam looked around to find all of them in agreement before turning to Optimus. Their eyes made visual contact and they soon turned away from each other, fireworks setting off inside their head.

Orion controlled himself and sent another glare towards the two who had recounted. "You're exaggerating all of it! What exactly is this character you've built?"

The room went into silence as their eyes slowly drifted away from the Prime. "Well…" They all chorused.

For once, Sam joined into the agreement. Knowing the Prime, he'd more than likely act like how they described, even if the subject is still revolving around him somewhat. But his mind switched back on as he sees his boyfriend releasing a large amount of blazing fury in his aura. If he didn't step in now, he knew there'd be a few dire consequences for the others… and possibly himself a little later. Besides that, there was something that was bugging his mind for a while.

So he stood up and grabbed a few attentions, quickly moving to Orion's back as he began shoving the Prime out of the room.

"H-Hey! Sam, what are you-"

"Alright, alright. Can we talk for a moment? Really? Great." Sam spoke quickly, Orion moving out of the room as quickly as he entered it with behind.

He barely had enough time to register what was going on before they walked a few feet away from the door they exited. Once collecting himself, he turned around to face his Samuel- that's right, his- with a small disapproving look while his arms were once again folded. The human didn't notice as he kept eyes and ears on the door they had exited, really wanting this small conversation.

"Sam, what was that for?"

"Hmm? Oh, uh… I Just felt like we needed a small talk for a moment… Sorry for the rush…" The young adult apologised as Optimus lifted his brow in confusion. Another indication for Samuel to further explain. Which he did the next second.

"Well, as flattering as it is to see you come in and defend me, I think that was a bit overboard, don't you?" He said, one hand on his hip as he leant on one of his leg while his face was plastered with a semi-bemused and semi-worried expression.

"Not at all." Orion quickly stated, Sam's eye twitched at the answer. "If I had allowed it any further, most likely you would have been pulled into their disputes."

"I think you're missing the point I'm trying to make. What I'm saying is 'I'll be fine'. You don't have to jump in every time things look bad."

"No. But I can at least prevent worse things from occurring." Optimus shot back, still holding a serious look on his holoform while Sam returned it. The two held a mental battle, sparks flying between them. Sam gave up the battle with a small sigh, now a bit tired when he looks to his boyfriend.

"You know, you can be pretty stubborn at times."

"Funny. Would that not be hypocritical of you?" A grin appeared on the Autobot, his tensed position gone and reverting back to his usual self. Sam followed with a smile of his own, taking a step or two closer to the leader.

"Hey now. I didn't say it was a bad thing. In fact, it may be one of the reasons why you're so… you." Sam found his hands sliding up the Prime's shoulders as they clasped on each other.

The godly chuckle returns as Orion returns the embrace with his arms wriggling around the young adult's waist. "Then I'm lucky to just be me." The two moved closer for another quick kiss.

Unlike the past few times they've done so, the two were quickly interrupted when the door that they had left through had swung open with a great slam. The two sprung themselves apart, still quite shy with PDA, and turned their gazes away from each other and towards the CMO that stood in front of the ajar door.

"Alright, you two, in my med bay, immediately!"

"Sit!" Ratchet ordered, the couple abiding it to the point as they both took the chairs next to wall, beside each other. They shared nervous and frightened glances towards each other, only turning back forward whenever the medic would look their way.

During the small minutes it took the three to move to the medical room, it was in complete and total silence as the two were a little of fearful of what they say and what the doctor would've said. It was sudden for Ratchet to pull them away from their own little world, but they decided it'd be better explained when they arrive at their destination rather than questioning it.

So they sat and watched the old holoform go around the room, rummaging for a few things in the cupboards and drawers. At first, it was all data pads that were being pulled out from a few shelves, then small packs of what the two couldn't identify from their spots, and then there was… a bottle?

When Ratchet returned, he now had a tray full of the things he gathered. Optimus had the unexpected surprise of having said tray dropped abruptly onto his lap, the Prime shook a little before steadying himself along with the tray and its contents. After collecting himself, he eyed the box full of new contents he'd never seen before, then turning to the medical officer with a confused glance.

"You'll need those."

Orion raised a brow. "And these are…?" Sam peaked his head over the tray, finally getting an image of what those packets were and the bottle's label as well. He never thought he could choke on air until that moment when he pulled back with a more than flushed expression. He swore that if he got any more of a blood rush, someone's going to need to supply him with a new batch of blood. It only got worse after the CMO's next choice of words.

"Things you'll need when you try human sexual intercourse." The couple had taken a spit-take as Orion dropped the tray forward and became a stuttering mess in front of the other two. Ratchet glanced down to the fallen tray for a moment, heaving a sigh as nothing can be seen as damaged. After confirming so, he looked back up to the two with an annoyed expression.

"Oh grow up you two! You're not sparklings anymore-"

"Ratchet! That doesn't mean we can just talk so freely about it!" Optimus had cut through. "Couldn't you have chosen a better time to bring this up?!"

"Of course not." He replied smoothly. "Even if I'm just a physician to you two, I can see the way you two look at each other. Who knows when you'd dive right into it."

"Oh dear god!" Sam felt a bit light headed from all the blushing he's done today, including now.

"Ratchet!"

The doctor rolled his eyes before kneeling down. He caught one of the data pads in his hand before presenting it to the leader. "Putting your useless embarrassment aside, read over the information first and foremost. They're a compilation of information I've gathered about human intercourse."

Optimus went silent for a few seconds, before he replied with a low voice. "… You know I have bonded before?"

"Well bonding is completely useless in this situation. Humans tends to have other ways to take part in sexual pleasure. It's very complicated which I'm not going to into full detail on. With human males, it's even more complicated when they decide to have intercourse with another male." Ratchet explained, his eyes drifting over to the young adult who was now growing pale under the stare.

"How so?"

"Again, too many details. Just read through those and you'll be fine. I've put some tips as well that I've found effective." The CMO then turned his head towards the human, who looked like he could've passed out on the spot. Ratchet had snapped a finger in front of him to catch his attention, where a high-pitched 'yes' came out. "I assume I don't have to educate you about this as well?"

"Definitely." Sam instantly answered, nodding rapidly.

Okay. Maybe, just maybe, the Prime had underestimated the complexity of human intercourse. It is quite vastly different from anything he's ever experienced, and most likely anything he will even in the future. So many variations of the act while all in risk of injury or another. And also, so many… positions… The longer and more he read, the more the anxiety in the back of his processor grew that he'd mess and cause pain to himself. Or even worse, to Samuel… To prevent that, he worked diligently on the data pads, rereading what he had forgotten before picking up where he had left off. Occasionally stopping to review what he could remember.

Sam took a look from his desk in the room that he shared with his boyfriend, who still sat in the kitchen reading the information given. From what he could see, the Prime looked like a teen the night before their finals. Hair ruffled, eyes constantly moving yet still holding a tired look among them. Sam got his hopes up every time he'd put one of the pads down, only to have that hope shot down when another was picked up. So during those times, he turned back to the book he read.

When he glanced to the clock on his left, he noticed how late it has gotten already, and how the Prime was still reading. He released a sigh from his lips before he stood up abruptly, causing the Prime to whip his head towards the new sounds. Sam then paced slowly over to the kitchen, a conversation starting on his way there.

"Sam, is something wrong?" Orion asked, just as the Witwicky circled behind him. Albeit Orion didn't move when arms wrapped around his shoulders, he couldn't say he wasn't surprised from the sudden contact.

"Come on. You've been at it for hours. We should leave soon for the thing."

A sad look crossed the leader. "I'm sorry. I'll join you in a bit. I'll be reading a bit longer."

Another sigh passed Sam's lips. "You're not gonna' get anything through your head when you cram it all in one night. Trust me, I learn from experience. You can continue tomorrow."

"But if we're to continue this relationship, then I must secure your safety if we should ever engage in these activities." Orion firmly said, turning back to his data pad in hopes of reading it.

Sam released a third sigh before he moved to the Prime's side.

"Hey, Orion."

"Y-" He stopped when a pair of lips touched his own, capturing him in a kiss. He merely jumped and dropped the pad he held before Sam pushed further, nipping at the bottom the leader's lips. Orion felt himself groan at the soft bite as his lips pulled open for the briefest of moments. Sam took his opportunity and glided his tongue over, making sudden contact with the holoform's tongue. Orion felt his tongue be coaxed forward into further contact, now pushing back into Sam's mouth and taking his own time to explore the confines of his beloved. Sam moaned as the Prime's tongue touched every crevice in his mouth, their saliva mixing and exchanging tastes.

Only reality brought them back onto the surface of Earth with a need for air burning their lungs. Finally, the two broke apart for breath, a glimmer of saliva separating them. Even though Samuel instigated the kiss, he was still dishevelled from the fact that it was much more lustful than any other ones they had ever had. As much pleasure that came out of it. It was a rushed experience and felt a bit out of place when he did it with the Prime. But it had the desired effect of leaving the leader breathless and confused. 'Always leave them wanting for more' or something like that.

Sam reached over to grab the holoform's hands, slowly dragging him onto his feet. "See? Not hurt at all. Now, don't you think that's enough of a 'practice' for one night?"

Orion was still speechless as he was led away from the kitchen, the lights switched off as they left, and headed for the door.

A few minutes later…

"C'mon Sam! It's almost about to start!" Bee called from his spot, turning back forward the next second.

"Sorry, sorry! Had a few things to do." Sam returned racing up to the seat beside his friend, towing the Optimus' holoform behind him.

"What took you two so long?" Sideswipe questioned, poking his head up from beside the blonde just as Sam took their seats.

"Apologies. A little light reading had me caught up." Optimus apologised, seating himself exactly how he did so on the night of New Year's Eve; encasing the human in a hug from behind while their legs once again hanged over the edge. "Are we waiting for anyone else?"

"Nope. Just you two!" Skids and Mudflap spoke in unison, Wheelie and Brains having another one of their lewd on conversations on the laps of the two young holoforms.

"Kept us waiting for a bit." Lennox popped out from behind, sitting in a chair with a cola in hand. Epps beside him with his own soda.

"Luckily hasn't started yet." Jolt briefed.

"Great! Wouldn't want to miss a second of it!" Sam exclaimed, smiles drawing up from the excitement.

"At least this time, you briefed us with what we're watching." Prowl added, referring back to the fireworks show. During the time, he was slightly peeved at how his strict recharge time could be pushed back thirty kliks or so.

Like on the night of the new year, the large group/mob gathered at 11:00 on the rooftop of the base once more. Taking eager seats as well as a few snacks and drinks on hand while they waited for the show to start. But this time, they all knew what they were expecting to see. A common tradition on both Earth and Cybertron that both species can enjoy through an hour or two.

"It's the thoughts that count, right?"

"Everybody, I think it's starting!"

Conversations ceased as they looked to the sky in anticipation, knowing what comes after. In silence, they hadn't noticed that their breaths had stopped the moment the first stretch of white crossed the sky. A second came quickly after as it was beginning of the meteor shower.

Not exactly midnight, but still a spectacle to see at any time of the night. And from what the Autobots had researched, it was the perfect time to watch it at that point. It was easy on Samuel without all the careful planning he'd been doing the past two holidays, giving him enough time to just enjoy and relax rather than running around in search for people. It was almost scary now he thought of it. How he had to do nothing. Well… not completely nothing of course. He did have to push his and Orion's relationship up a base, but nothing that he won't regret… at the moment.

The night continued on as the sky was streaked with white now and then, the gaps fluctuating between long and short minutes. Half-way through, the group's conversation began to magnify as a sort of outdoor party began. The mob scattered into smaller groups, each talking and sharing stories before turning back to the sky. In one group, William, Robert, Ironhide, and a few soldiers spoke like drunken war heroes... which they were... Another group held Ratchet, Prowl, Sunstreaker and Arcee speaking, their tones a little serious in the matter which they discussed. The last group composed of Bumblebee, Jolt, Sideswipe, Mirage, the green and orange duo, and the remaining soldiers on base talked as if teens and young adults would. Though, it isn't surprising their age compared to the others.

The only ones that weren't conversing were the newly couple; still sitting quietly in the same position while the lights poured down. They remained like so for a complete thirty minutes before one had begun talking.

"…O… Orion…?"

"Yes, Sam?"

"… Can I tell you something?" The Prime turned down from the sudden change in tone. What was so happy before was now replaced by what sounded like… fear?

"Anything you want."

Sam observed the holoform as it looked down on the young adult. Swallowing his pride, he spoke his mind hesitantly. "… I'm… I'm scared…" He admitted.

"Of what?"

"I… I don't know… You? That the next morning I wake up, you won't be there. The nightmares? That they'd return during that moment. If any of them came true. Even more so if she came back." Sam felt tears prick his eyes while he kept thinking on it. His arm came up to wipe away the liquid while the leader was silent. "I… I don't want to l-lose you…"

"Samuel…" Pulling up the courage, the Witwicky turned to meet the blue eyes of his love. I want you to look up there for a moment." The Prime directed a finger towards the sky as Sam followed the direction he pointed at, noticing one of the blinking dots in the sky. Giving a nod to confirm that he sees it, Orion continued. "Whenever you feel that way, whenever all hope is lost. Then do me one thing and remember back to this night and that star. Remember everything we've said over the course of this time we had together, and hold onto it tightly."

When the hand dropped, Sam looked back to Orion's face. "I love you Sam. No matter if the sins of my past come back, or the darkest moments of my future overtake me, remember how I feel about you now. And know that I will always have my spark pulse for you." Leaning in, he pressed two kisses to the Witwicky. One comforting kiss on the forehead, and another chaste kiss on his lips.

When he leant back, Orion looked around the rooftop as everyone went silent for that touching moment, showing many smiles and grins towards the leader's way. Then the slightly unusual happens. Small laughter erupts from below him, pulling in the attentions of everyone to Sam. The giggling turning into chuckles before innocent and uncontained laughter. Its sound soothing the minds of everybody that heard it.

"Was there something I missed?" The Autobot leader asked, looking a bit curious.

"Mm. The star you pointed at was Alnilam, the 'heart' of the Orion constellation and centre piece of Orion's Belt." Sam now doubling over in his spot while the Prime steadied him. This drew the eyebrows of many and brought many more to follow the same reaction as Sam had done. Practically the entire rooftop was laughing or smiling by this point, seeing the humour behind it. "Ironic?"

"Indeed." He stated, leaning closer to Sam. "Then let it be known, if we are ever lost, in the stars do we meet once more, Samuel." Orion spoke lowly, his smile pulling up even higher. And once more, Sam doubled over, only controlling himself for a moment to speak his comment.

"… That was so cheesy…" Samuel smiled as he cried once more. This time, tears of happiness sprung from his eyes before rolling off his cheeks. A firm nod and a short hum confirmed that he had felt the same thing for the Cybertronian. He didn't know what in the future would try to pull them apart, and if they do succeed or not. But one thing is for certain, they will come together again. One way, or another.