The clanking of metal echoed through the base as Ratchet’s team bustled about, going through their usual routines. Optimus had called for a meeting, and everyone was gathering in the central control room. Ratchet, as usual, was deeply focused on his work, barely looking up from his station—until the doors slid open.

For a moment, everything stopped.

The team watched in shock as Ratchet’s expression softened, his optics widening as though he’d seen a ghost. Without a word, he shot up from his seat, tools clattering to the floor.

Before you could even say anything, Ratchet moved with a speed none of them had ever seen from him, closing the distance between you in an instant. He wrapped you in a tight hug, a rare, genuine smile spreading across his face.

The Autobots exchanged stunned looks, completely confused as to who you were and why their normally reserved medic had just dropped everything to embrace you. They had never seen Ratchet act like this before.