Optimus had been worried about you for some time now. He saw the weight you carried, the exhaustion in your optics, and the way you lingered in silence, lost in thoughts you never voiced. You were strong—immensely so—but even the strongest needed comfort.

So he had something made for you. A stuffed animal, large enough to fit in your massive hands, soft enough to bring even the tiniest bit of peace. It was something meant just for you, a reminder that you were allowed to have comfort too.

When he handed it to you, you froze, staring at the gift in stunned silence. Then, before he could react, you swept both the stuffed animal and him into your arms, lifting him with a gentleness that seemed impossible for someone your size.

“Woah—hey! Careful now,” Optimus chuckled, though there was a hint of nervousness in his voice. “Large hugs crush, remember?”

But you weren’t letting go. Instead, you let out a soft, contented huff, slowly laying down while cradling both the stuffed animal and him. Your massive frame curled protectively around Optimus like a living shield, your hold firm but careful, ensuring he wasn’t harmed.

Optimus expected to feel small—maybe even vulnerable—but instead, he felt something else entirely. Safe. Sheltered. Like he was being guarded by something ancient and powerful.

Then, to his surprise, you nuzzled his helm, a simple yet overwhelming gesture.

Optimus chuckled, adjusting slightly. “You’re surprisingly comfortable.”

You rumbled in response, your grip tightening just slightly—not enough to hurt, just enough to let him know you weren’t letting go anytime soon.

Optimus sighed, a rare, soft smile crossing his face. “I suppose… there are worse fates than this.”

And for the first time in a long while, you felt truly at peace.