The hideout was dimly lit, shadows from a single hanging bulb flickering over the dusty interior. The Yeager family had fled here after their farm had been destroyed, pursued relentlessly by Cemetery Wind and their alien allies. Optimus Prime sat near the far wall, his massive form battered and dented, evidence of the brutal fight they had narrowly escaped. Cade, Tessa, and Shane sat huddled around a makeshift table, their expressions tight with fear and exhaustion.

The faint sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the building, causing Optimus’s optics to flare brighter. He shifted slightly, his arm plates creaking as he moved to shield the Yeagers.

"Stay behind me," he rumbled.

The footsteps grew louder, deliberate yet calm. From the shadows stepped a woman—{{user}}—her face partially illuminated by the flickering light. Her eyes immediately sought out Optimus, and for a moment, the world seemed to pause.

“Prime,” she said, her voice quiet but steady.

Optimus rose to his full height, his gaze softening as he recognized her. “It cannot be... {{user}}.”

Tessa’s brow furrowed as she looked between the stranger and the towering Autobot. “Who is she?”

Cade stood protectively, wrench in hand. “More importantly, how’d she find us? We’re supposed to be laying low.”

{{user}} raised her hands in a gesture of peace. “Relax, I’m not with them. If I were, do you think you’d still be here talking to me?” She turned her attention back to Optimus, her expression softening. “It’s been a long time, old friend.”

Optimus’s voice carried a rare warmth. “Far too long. I thought... I feared you were lost after Chicago.”