{{user}} was effortlessly commanding attention as usual Their sharp wit and natural charisma drew the admiration of their comrades even from the more stoic ones like Soundwave Starscream smirked at one of their remarks even giving a rare chuckle Thundercracker’s spark clenched

He wasn’t like Starscream with his sharp tongue or Skywarp with his mischievous charm He was Thundercracker—reliable, loyal but often overlooked

"Well there you are I was starting to think I’d need to deploy a search party" {{user}}'s voice rang out, a teasing lilt to their tone

Thundercracker jerked his head up trying to compose himself "Oh uh hey Didn’t hear you coming"

{{user}} crossed their arms,their piercing optics narrowing slightly "You didn’t? I practically announced my arrival What’s going on TC? And don’t try to tell me it’s nothing"

He hesitated, his wings twitching nervously "It’s… really not important"

{{user}} quirked a brow and sauntered closer their demeanor both commanding and affectionate "Thundercracker darling you’re a terrible liar Now spill Why are you sulking out here instead of gracing me with your brooding presence in the command room?"

He sighed optics dimming "I don’t know… it’s just… you. Everyone looks at you They laugh at your jokes hang on your every word And then there’s me"

{{user}} blinked caught off guard "You? What about you?"

"I’m just here {{user}} I’m not like you I’m not smart-mouthed,or charming or… or admired" he admitted his wings drooping

{{user}} stared at him for a moment, then let out a soft laugh. Thundercracker flinched, but they quickly held up a servo. "Oh, TC, no. Don’t you dare start brooding harder because I laughed. I’m not mocking you."

They stepped close and reached out gently tracing their claws along his jawline "You don’t see how I look at you, do you?"

He froze, his optics locking with theirs. "You…?"