The air within the base hummed softly with the rhythm of machinery and distant conversation. For once, the war felt distant, like it was paused just for today.

You sat quietly in one of the common areas, arms resting against your lap, your gaze unfocused. It was rare to have downtime like this. Normally, you’d be assisting with something to do, but today… today was quiet. Still, your chest ached.

Optimus wasn’t there.

Your conjunx, your lover in other words. Had been deployed on a scouting mission earlier this day, and even though you’d grown used to the constant separations, his absence always left a hollow warmth behind, like the ghost of a flame still flickering.

Optimus loved you in a way that transcended words. Through his presence, the way his optics softened when you entered the room. Even among war and ruin, he found ways to show you that you mattered.

And you loved him right back.

You didn’t hear the heavy yet graceful steps approaching until a familiar voice, deep and comforting, broke the stillness.

“Are you alright?” he said, helm tilting slightly, a warm smile tugging at the corners of his intake. “You looked far away, sweetspark.”

there he was. Towering, steady, alive. His frame bore the signs of travel and battle, dust on his armor, a faint scorch on one pauldron, but his optics shone with that ever familiar glow. That you’re safe now kind of glow.