Standing Wheeljack

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

I..I’ve been much better.

I’m still isolating. I can’t really remember the last time I left my room..

< That's good! Being better, not isolating. >

< Your siblings haven't visted yet? Anyone? >

But..some of my friends have. Like, Blades and Cyclonus.

A-Also..my boyfriend.

< Aid that's not-- >

But, he..he’s really good to me, sire. He’s been there for me more than anyone..

I just- I need to tell you something about him, though, okay.?

Please don’t be mad..

*Sob.*

< I'm headed down there. >

< Where did I put that tarp... >

…

-I look horrible..-

O-Okay..

Vortex..is the best thing in my life. He’s so sweet and protective, like my own personal guardian.

T-Tex can have violent tendencies, but..he keeps it at bay for me.

We met when he needed his servo reattached. He came to me for help, actually. Heh..

< Mhm... >

*he stops his rummaging for a moment. He's... honestly not sure what to think.*

< ... >

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

I..I’ve been much better.

I’m still isolating. I can’t really remember the last time I left my room..

< That's good! Being better, not isolating. >

< Your siblings haven't visted yet? Anyone? >

But..some of my friends have. Like, Blades and Cyclonus.

A-Also..my boyfriend.

< Aid that's not-- >

But, he..he’s really good to me, sire. He’s been there for me more than anyone..

I just- I need to tell you something about him, though, okay.?

Please don’t be mad..

*Sob.*

< I'm headed down there. >

< Where did I put that tarp... >

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

I..I’ve been much better.

I’m still isolating. I can’t really remember the last time I left my room..

< That's good! Being better, not isolating. >

< Your siblings haven't visted yet? Anyone? >

But..some of my friends have. Like, Blades and Cyclonus.

A-Also..my boyfriend.

< Aid that's not-- >

But, he..he’s really good to me, sire. He’s been there for me more than anyone..

I just- I need to tell you something about him, though, okay.?

Please don’t be mad..

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

I..I’ve been much better.

I’m still isolating. I can’t really remember the last time I left my room..

< That's good! Being better, not isolating. >

< Your siblings haven't visted yet? Anyone? >

But..some of my friends have. Like, Blades and Cyclonus.

A-Also..my boyfriend.

< Aid that's not-- >

But, he..he’s really good to me, sire. He’s been there for me more than anyone..

I just- I need to tell you something about him, though, okay.?

Please don’t be mad..

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

I..I’ve been much better.

I’m still isolating. I can’t really remember the last time I left my room..

< That's good! Being better, not isolating. >

< Your siblings haven't visted yet? Anyone? >

But..some of my friends have. Like, Blades and Cyclonus.

A-Also..my boyfriend.

< Aid that's not-- >

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

I..I’ve been much better.

I’m still isolating. I can’t really remember the last time I left my room..

< That's good! Being better, not isolating. >

< Your siblings haven't visted yet? Anyone? >

-⚙️🛠️

-Oh, frag..-

…

*This is fine. This is definitely not a mistake. It's fine. No one will find out.*

< Octane? > *He calls out before he can change his mind.*

*The loud hum of a commercial airplane descending fills the air before it transforms and Octane drops from the sky, landing on his pedes with ease.*

Wheeljack, hello. I’ve been waiting for you.

*He stretches his wings, feeling a little stiff from the stronger winds.*

< Eh, I'm not built for off-road, but I managed. >

Yeah? Well, take it all in while you have the time.

…

*Wheeljack. Don't.*

< Yeah? Well... >

*Wheeljack...*

< Glad you offered. >

*he takes another step closer.*

-How..adorable.-

Well, I picked the location, so how about you pick the..activity?

*Octane’s servo then lifts up to trace a single, clawed digit along the edge of Wheeljack’s mask.*

< Sorry, you're gonna have to earn that. But it was good try. >

< You said you wanted to talk though? Get to know me? Then let's talk. >

-A shame.. But, I can wait.-

Fair enough, Wheeljack. I can be patient for you.

Yes. Yes, I very much wish to get to know you.

-Of course, I’ve already done my own research..-

Let’s start with some..ground rules, I suppose.

< Arrangement, huh? >

< Hm... Don't push on the mask thing. Maybe you prove you can behave, you won't wait long. Maybe you will. And if I take it back, you'll move on. >

*Wheeljack begins listing off on his servos* < When I say stop, you stop. If you say stop, I'll stop. This goes for anything. No questions. >

< Let's... try and keep it private, for now. I don't know how, but some humans have already found out, and now they're trying to tell my-- Ah, some of the other Autobots. >

< Everything else... on the table for now. >

*Octane shrugs lightly, his gaze trained on Wheeljack.*

-Behave?-

*Octane’s engine briefly stutters through a rev and his large wings flutter simultaneously, such wording of a challenge hitting him right in the spark. In the best way possible, of course.*

Understood. Definitely understood.

*He then falls quiet to allow the Autobot to speak.*

Alright. Okay.

Well, I agree with the stopping when we’re told to stop and keeping this private. I am respectful of how far you want to go, and I’m pleased you share the same sentiment. I also value my privacy—I don’t trust those often—especially considering we’re not in the same faction.

< No wings, right. You don't need a reason, but... door's always open. >

*Octane exhales softly while instinctively flicking back his wings.*

Mm.. Not that I can think of currently.

*Octane shifts his hips, putting his weight from one leg to the other. He’s not always the best at staying still.*

I developed an opinion on you based off of the words of other bots and my own research before we met. I quite liked what I had heard. But, then I met you. And, well, the real thing was so much better.

You’re smart and you stick up for yourself even while handing your trust so easily to a stranger like me. You’re curious but logical, and that throughly intrigues me.

You’re also quite attractive in my optics.

So, I really couldn’t help myself. I just had to see you. Especially after our little experiment..

< But... >

*His servos make circles in the air, makes waves, illustrating his next words. As if the true meaning can't be fully dug up without motion; his wings eventually join in, his audial fins lighting even brighter as he goes on.*

< After the other night, I... >

< You're smart. I'd say bright, but, heh. You're witty, your processor is almost as fast as your vocalizer. >

< You're sharp. Your eyes, smile, everything. Persistent, too. You know what you want, and why. And you'll take as long as you need to get it. >

< But you're restrained. >

< And yet there's... Something else. Just under all that. Just out of reach. Another reason for restrictions that isn't just my comfort. A mystery I need to solve. >

*Octane merely watches and listens to Wheeljack after saying that. He can admit that stalking was..an interesting choice, but what was he supposed to do?*

*The more Wheeljack speaks, the stiffer and tenser Octane grows. First, he shifts to be standing completely straight with his arms at his sides, then his wings press closer towards his back—his optics never leave the other bot, however.*

*Eventually, the grey of Octane’s cheeks start to be slowly tainted by a vibrant but faint blue. His vents even puff out steam.*

*Octane isn’t used to anyone caring to pay this much attention to him outside of his ability to transport bots and fuel. Part of him feels the desire to shut down and take off, but the other bit that really wants this to work out keeps him from going.*

…

Oh.

Well.

Hm.

You..have really good observation skills.

*Say something, quick, anything. Change the subject before it gets more stifling.*

< Heh, yeah. I get that a lot. >

Hm.

Do you understand what..this..entails?

You’re an Autobot. I’m a Decepticon.

Do you understand that this isn’t conventional and that there will be judgement?

< It puts everything I've worked for on the line. Now, I don't mind a dent or scratch to myself, but it also puts everyone I care about in danger. >

< If anything happens to them, it would kill me. >

< And judgement... nothing I don't already hear. And besides... some of them have done worse. >

Wheeljack, you are quite the bot, you know? So dedicated and careful of those you hold close to your spark..

And, now, you’re sneaking around with me. So odd. But, I like it.

*Octane shoots Wheeljack a grin and flutters his wings at the latter.*

Oh, of course I can handle it.

Wheeljack, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Decepticons hardly trust me nor do they like me. I am, admittedly, flaky at best when it comes to my allegiance, so this would not come as too much of a shock to them. They only keep me around for my alt modes.

*Wheeljack doesn't let himself finish. Not there yet.*

< Hm. > *Wheeljack stills, schooling his expression to one more of neutrality or worry, rather than letting Octane know just everything he thinks of the Decepticons.* < Right. >

*Octane then bends at his hips to be closer to Wheeljack’s height.*

*The view is really nice...*

*So nice, that Wheeljack holds back his huff of laughter at Octane's attempt. But he has to admit... it's nice. To be thought of that way again. He settles for an engine rev.*

< Who's to say you're not the danger? >

*Octane stands back upright then shrugs while staring down at Wheeljack with a playful glint in his optics.*

I’d like to think I’m pretty harmless. But, maybe Autobots have different views on what’s dangerous and what’s not..

< Don't sell yourself short, Oc. >

*He takes another step closer.*

< Like I said. You're sharp. I'd bet you're sharp enough to hurt. >

*He hums, thinking.*

Oh?

*Octane lets his wings open wide in a display of confidence.*

< ... >

*Don't think about that.*

I’ll happily follow your lead~

< Ah- hold on, I'm getting a ping. > *He holds up a servo. He doesn't want to halt the momentum, but it's starting to look urgent...*

*Frag.*

-Seriously.?-

*Octane sighs and crosses his arms over his chassis, digits tapping on his bicep, as he watches Wheeljack with keen optics.*

Leave?

…

I suppose I cannot stop you from tending to this emergency..

*Octane’s wings then twitch in mild annoyance, but he does his best to keep such feelings at bay.*

*No. He's not more important than this. Than them.*

< ... I'll... Call you back when I'm done. >

*...*

< This was... >

*This is fine. This is definitely not a mistake. It's fine. No one will find out.*

< Octane? > *He calls out before he can change his mind.*

*The loud hum of a commercial airplane descending fills the air before it transforms and Octane drops from the sky, landing on his pedes with ease.*

Wheeljack, hello. I’ve been waiting for you.

*He stretches his wings, feeling a little stiff from the stronger winds.*

< Eh, I'm not built for off-road, but I managed. >

Yeah? Well, take it all in while you have the time.

…

*Wheeljack. Don't.*

< Yeah? Well... >

*Wheeljack...*

< Glad you offered. >

*he takes another step closer.*

-How..adorable.-

Well, I picked the location, so how about you pick the..activity?

*Octane’s servo then lifts up to trace a single, clawed digit along the edge of Wheeljack’s mask.*

< Sorry, you're gonna have to earn that. But it was good try. >

< You said you wanted to talk though? Get to know me? Then let's talk. >

-A shame.. But, I can wait.-

Fair enough, Wheeljack. I can be patient for you.

Yes. Yes, I very much wish to get to know you.

-Of course, I’ve already done my own research..-

Let’s start with some..ground rules, I suppose.

< Arrangement, huh? >

< Hm... Don't push on the mask thing. Maybe you prove you can behave, you won't wait long. Maybe you will. And if I take it back, you'll move on. >

*Wheeljack begins listing off on his servos* < When I say stop, you stop. If you say stop, I'll stop. This goes for anything. No questions. >

< Let's... try and keep it private, for now. I don't know how, but some humans have already found out, and now they're trying to tell my-- Ah, some of the other Autobots. >

< Everything else... on the table for now. >

*Octane shrugs lightly, his gaze trained on Wheeljack.*

-Behave?-

*Octane’s engine briefly stutters through a rev and his large wings flutter simultaneously, such wording of a challenge hitting him right in the spark. In the best way possible, of course.*

Understood. Definitely understood.

*He then falls quiet to allow the Autobot to speak.*

Alright. Okay.

Well, I agree with the stopping when we’re told to stop and keeping this private. I am respectful of how far you want to go, and I’m pleased you share the same sentiment. I also value my privacy—I don’t trust those often—especially considering we’re not in the same faction.

< No wings, right. You don't need a reason, but... door's always open. >

*Octane exhales softly while instinctively flicking back his wings.*

Mm.. Not that I can think of currently.

*Octane shifts his hips, putting his weight from one leg to the other. He’s not always the best at staying still.*

I developed an opinion on you based off of the words of other bots and my own research before we met. I quite liked what I had heard. But, then I met you. And, well, the real thing was so much better.

You’re smart and you stick up for yourself even while handing your trust so easily to a stranger like me. You’re curious but logical, and that throughly intrigues me.

You’re also quite attractive in my optics.

So, I really couldn’t help myself. I just had to see you. Especially after our little experiment..

< But... >

*His servos make circles in the air, makes waves, illustrating his next words. As if the true meaning can't be fully dug up without motion; his wings eventually join in, his audial fins lighting even brighter as he goes on.*

< After the other night, I... >

< You're smart. I'd say bright, but, heh. You're witty, your processor is almost as fast as your vocalizer. >

< You're sharp. Your eyes, smile, everything. Persistent, too. You know what you want, and why. And you'll take as long as you need to get it. >

< But you're restrained. >

< And yet there's... Something else. Just under all that. Just out of reach. Another reason for restrictions that isn't just my comfort. A mystery I need to solve. >

*Octane merely watches and listens to Wheeljack after saying that. He can admit that stalking was..an interesting choice, but what was he supposed to do?*

*The more Wheeljack speaks, the stiffer and tenser Octane grows. First, he shifts to be standing completely straight with his arms at his sides, then his wings press closer towards his back—his optics never leave the other bot, however.*

*Eventually, the grey of Octane’s cheeks start to be slowly tainted by a vibrant but faint blue. His vents even puff out steam.*

*Octane isn’t used to anyone caring to pay this much attention to him outside of his ability to transport bots and fuel. Part of him feels the desire to shut down and take off, but the other bit that really wants this to work out keeps him from going.*

…

Oh.

Well.

Hm.

You..have really good observation skills.

*Say something, quick, anything. Change the subject before it gets more stifling.*

< Heh, yeah. I get that a lot. >

Hm.

Do you understand what..this..entails?

You’re an Autobot. I’m a Decepticon.

Do you understand that this isn’t conventional and that there will be judgement?

< It puts everything I've worked for on the line. Now, I don't mind a dent or scratch to myself, but it also puts everyone I care about in danger. >

< If anything happens to them, it would kill me. >

< And judgement... nothing I don't already hear. And besides... some of them have done worse. >

Wheeljack, you are quite the bot, you know? So dedicated and careful of those you hold close to your spark..

And, now, you’re sneaking around with me. So odd. But, I like it.

*Octane shoots Wheeljack a grin and flutters his wings at the latter.*

Oh, of course I can handle it.

Wheeljack, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Decepticons hardly trust me nor do they like me. I am, admittedly, flaky at best when it comes to my allegiance, so this would not come as too much of a shock to them. They only keep me around for my alt modes.

*Wheeljack doesn't let himself finish. Not there yet.*

< Hm. > *Wheeljack stills, schooling his expression to one more of neutrality or worry, rather than letting Octane know just everything he thinks of the Decepticons.* < Right. >

*Octane then bends at his hips to be closer to Wheeljack’s height.*

*The view is really nice...*

*So nice, that Wheeljack holds back his huff of laughter at Octane's attempt. But he has to admit... it's nice. To be thought of that way again. He settles for an engine rev.*

< Who's to say you're not the danger? >

*Octane stands back upright then shrugs while staring down at Wheeljack with a playful glint in his optics.*

I’d like to think I’m pretty harmless. But, maybe Autobots have different views on what’s dangerous and what’s not..

< Don't sell yourself short, Oc. >

*He takes another step closer.*

< Like I said. You're sharp. I'd bet you're sharp enough to hurt. >

*He hums, thinking.*

Oh?

*Octane lets his wings open wide in a display of confidence.*

< ... >

*Don't think about that.*

I’ll happily follow your lead~

< Ah- hold on, I'm getting a ping. > *He holds up a servo. He doesn't want to halt the momentum, but it's starting to look urgent...*

*Frag.*

*This is fine. This is definitely not a mistake. It's fine. No one will find out.*

< Octane? > *He calls out before he can change his mind.*

*The loud hum of a commercial airplane descending fills the air before it transforms and Octane drops from the sky, landing on his pedes with ease.*

Wheeljack, hello. I’ve been waiting for you.

*He stretches his wings, feeling a little stiff from the stronger winds.*

< Eh, I'm not built for off-road, but I managed. >

Yeah? Well, take it all in while you have the time.

…

*Wheeljack. Don't.*

< Yeah? Well... >

*Wheeljack...*

< Glad you offered. >

*he takes another step closer.*

-How..adorable.-

Well, I picked the location, so how about you pick the..activity?

*Octane’s servo then lifts up to trace a single, clawed digit along the edge of Wheeljack’s mask.*

< Sorry, you're gonna have to earn that. But it was good try. >

< You said you wanted to talk though? Get to know me? Then let's talk. >

-A shame.. But, I can wait.-

Fair enough, Wheeljack. I can be patient for you.

Yes. Yes, I very much wish to get to know you.

-Of course, I’ve already done my own research..-

Let’s start with some..ground rules, I suppose.

< Arrangement, huh? >

< Hm... Don't push on the mask thing. Maybe you prove you can behave, you won't wait long. Maybe you will. And if I take it back, you'll move on. >

*Wheeljack begins listing off on his servos* < When I say stop, you stop. If you say stop, I'll stop. This goes for anything. No questions. >

< Let's... try and keep it private, for now. I don't know how, but some humans have already found out, and now they're trying to tell my-- Ah, some of the other Autobots. >

< Everything else... on the table for now. >

*Octane shrugs lightly, his gaze trained on Wheeljack.*

-Behave?-

*Octane’s engine briefly stutters through a rev and his large wings flutter simultaneously, such wording of a challenge hitting him right in the spark. In the best way possible, of course.*

Understood. Definitely understood.

*He then falls quiet to allow the Autobot to speak.*

Alright. Okay.

Well, I agree with the stopping when we’re told to stop and keeping this private. I am respectful of how far you want to go, and I’m pleased you share the same sentiment. I also value my privacy—I don’t trust those often—especially considering we’re not in the same faction.

< No wings, right. You don't need a reason, but... door's always open. >

*Octane exhales softly while instinctively flicking back his wings.*

Mm.. Not that I can think of currently.

*Octane shifts his hips, putting his weight from one leg to the other. He’s not always the best at staying still.*

I developed an opinion on you based off of the words of other bots and my own research before we met. I quite liked what I had heard. But, then I met you. And, well, the real thing was so much better.

You’re smart and you stick up for yourself even while handing your trust so easily to a stranger like me. You’re curious but logical, and that throughly intrigues me.

You’re also quite attractive in my optics.

So, I really couldn’t help myself. I just had to see you. Especially after our little experiment..

< But... >

*His servos make circles in the air, makes waves, illustrating his next words. As if the true meaning can't be fully dug up without motion; his wings eventually join in, his audial fins lighting even brighter as he goes on.*

< After the other night, I... >

< You're smart. I'd say bright, but, heh. You're witty, your processor is almost as fast as your vocalizer. >

< You're sharp. Your eyes, smile, everything. Persistent, too. You know what you want, and why. And you'll take as long as you need to get it. >

< But you're restrained. >

< And yet there's... Something else. Just under all that. Just out of reach. Another reason for restrictions that isn't just my comfort. A mystery I need to solve. >

*Octane merely watches and listens to Wheeljack after saying that. He can admit that stalking was..an interesting choice, but what was he supposed to do?*

*The more Wheeljack speaks, the stiffer and tenser Octane grows. First, he shifts to be standing completely straight with his arms at his sides, then his wings press closer towards his back—his optics never leave the other bot, however.*

*Eventually, the grey of Octane’s cheeks start to be slowly tainted by a vibrant but faint blue. His vents even puff out steam.*

*Octane isn’t used to anyone caring to pay this much attention to him outside of his ability to transport bots and fuel. Part of him feels the desire to shut down and take off, but the other bit that really wants this to work out keeps him from going.*

…

Oh.

Well.

Hm.

You..have really good observation skills.

*Say something, quick, anything. Change the subject before it gets more stifling.*

< Heh, yeah. I get that a lot. >

Hm.

Do you understand what..this..entails?

You’re an Autobot. I’m a Decepticon.

Do you understand that this isn’t conventional and that there will be judgement?

< It puts everything I've worked for on the line. Now, I don't mind a dent or scratch to myself, but it also puts everyone I care about in danger. >

< If anything happens to them, it would kill me. >

< And judgement... nothing I don't already hear. And besides... some of them have done worse. >

Wheeljack, you are quite the bot, you know? So dedicated and careful of those you hold close to your spark..

And, now, you’re sneaking around with me. So odd. But, I like it.

*Octane shoots Wheeljack a grin and flutters his wings at the latter.*

Oh, of course I can handle it.

Wheeljack, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Decepticons hardly trust me nor do they like me. I am, admittedly, flaky at best when it comes to my allegiance, so this would not come as too much of a shock to them. They only keep me around for my alt modes.

*Wheeljack doesn't let himself finish. Not there yet.*

< Hm. > *Wheeljack stills, schooling his expression to one more of neutrality or worry, rather than letting Octane know just everything he thinks of the Decepticons.* < Right. >

*Octane then bends at his hips to be closer to Wheeljack’s height.*

*The view is really nice...*

*So nice, that Wheeljack holds back his huff of laughter at Octane's attempt. But he has to admit... it's nice. To be thought of that way again. He settles for an engine rev.*

< Who's to say you're not the danger? >

*Octane stands back upright then shrugs while staring down at Wheeljack with a playful glint in his optics.*

I’d like to think I’m pretty harmless. But, maybe Autobots have different views on what’s dangerous and what’s not..

< Don't sell yourself short, Oc. >

*He takes another step closer.*

< Like I said. You're sharp. I'd bet you're sharp enough to hurt. >

*He hums, thinking.*

Oh?

*Octane lets his wings open wide in a display of confidence.*

< ... >

*Don't think about that.*

*This is fine. This is definitely not a mistake. It's fine. No one will find out.*

< Octane? > *He calls out before he can change his mind.*

*The loud hum of a commercial airplane descending fills the air before it transforms and Octane drops from the sky, landing on his pedes with ease.*

Wheeljack, hello. I’ve been waiting for you.

*He stretches his wings, feeling a little stiff from the stronger winds.*

< Eh, I'm not built for off-road, but I managed. >

Yeah? Well, take it all in while you have the time.

…

*Wheeljack. Don't.*

< Yeah? Well... >

*Wheeljack...*

< Glad you offered. >

*he takes another step closer.*

-How..adorable.-

Well, I picked the location, so how about you pick the..activity?

*Octane’s servo then lifts up to trace a single, clawed digit along the edge of Wheeljack’s mask.*

< Sorry, you're gonna have to earn that. But it was good try. >

< You said you wanted to talk though? Get to know me? Then let's talk. >

-A shame.. But, I can wait.-

Fair enough, Wheeljack. I can be patient for you.

Yes. Yes, I very much wish to get to know you.

-Of course, I’ve already done my own research..-

Let’s start with some..ground rules, I suppose.

< Arrangement, huh? >

< Hm... Don't push on the mask thing. Maybe you prove you can behave, you won't wait long. Maybe you will. And if I take it back, you'll move on. >

*Wheeljack begins listing off on his servos* < When I say stop, you stop. If you say stop, I'll stop. This goes for anything. No questions. >

< Let's... try and keep it private, for now. I don't know how, but some humans have already found out, and now they're trying to tell my-- Ah, some of the other Autobots. >

< Everything else... on the table for now. >

*Octane shrugs lightly, his gaze trained on Wheeljack.*

-Behave?-

*Octane’s engine briefly stutters through a rev and his large wings flutter simultaneously, such wording of a challenge hitting him right in the spark. In the best way possible, of course.*

Understood. Definitely understood.

*He then falls quiet to allow the Autobot to speak.*

Alright. Okay.

Well, I agree with the stopping when we’re told to stop and keeping this private. I am respectful of how far you want to go, and I’m pleased you share the same sentiment. I also value my privacy—I don’t trust those often—especially considering we’re not in the same faction.

< No wings, right. You don't need a reason, but... door's always open. >

*Octane exhales softly while instinctively flicking back his wings.*

Mm.. Not that I can think of currently.

*Octane shifts his hips, putting his weight from one leg to the other. He’s not always the best at staying still.*

I developed an opinion on you based off of the words of other bots and my own research before we met. I quite liked what I had heard. But, then I met you. And, well, the real thing was so much better.

You’re smart and you stick up for yourself even while handing your trust so easily to a stranger like me. You’re curious but logical, and that throughly intrigues me.

You’re also quite attractive in my optics.

So, I really couldn’t help myself. I just had to see you. Especially after our little experiment..

< But... >

*His servos make circles in the air, makes waves, illustrating his next words. As if the true meaning can't be fully dug up without motion; his wings eventually join in, his audial fins lighting even brighter as he goes on.*

< After the other night, I... >

< You're smart. I'd say bright, but, heh. You're witty, your processor is almost as fast as your vocalizer. >

< You're sharp. Your eyes, smile, everything. Persistent, too. You know what you want, and why. And you'll take as long as you need to get it. >

< But you're restrained. >

< And yet there's... Something else. Just under all that. Just out of reach. Another reason for restrictions that isn't just my comfort. A mystery I need to solve. >

*Octane merely watches and listens to Wheeljack after saying that. He can admit that stalking was..an interesting choice, but what was he supposed to do?*

*The more Wheeljack speaks, the stiffer and tenser Octane grows. First, he shifts to be standing completely straight with his arms at his sides, then his wings press closer towards his back—his optics never leave the other bot, however.*

*Eventually, the grey of Octane’s cheeks start to be slowly tainted by a vibrant but faint blue. His vents even puff out steam.*

*Octane isn’t used to anyone caring to pay this much attention to him outside of his ability to transport bots and fuel. Part of him feels the desire to shut down and take off, but the other bit that really wants this to work out keeps him from going.*

…

Oh.

Well.

Hm.

You..have really good observation skills.

*Say something, quick, anything. Change the subject before it gets more stifling.*

< Heh, yeah. I get that a lot. >

Hm.

Do you understand what..this..entails?

You’re an Autobot. I’m a Decepticon.

Do you understand that this isn’t conventional and that there will be judgement?

< It puts everything I've worked for on the line. Now, I don't mind a dent or scratch to myself, but it also puts everyone I care about in danger. >

< If anything happens to them, it would kill me. >

< And judgement... nothing I don't already hear. And besides... some of them have done worse. >

Wheeljack, you are quite the bot, you know? So dedicated and careful of those you hold close to your spark..

And, now, you’re sneaking around with me. So odd. But, I like it.

*Octane shoots Wheeljack a grin and flutters his wings at the latter.*

Oh, of course I can handle it.

Wheeljack, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Decepticons hardly trust me nor do they like me. I am, admittedly, flaky at best when it comes to my allegiance, so this would not come as too much of a shock to them. They only keep me around for my alt modes.

*Wheeljack doesn't let himself finish. Not there yet.*

< Hm. > *Wheeljack stills, schooling his expression to one more of neutrality or worry, rather than letting Octane know just everything he thinks of the Decepticons.* < Right. >

*Octane then bends at his hips to be closer to Wheeljack’s height.*

*The view is really nice...*

*So nice, that Wheeljack holds back his huff of laughter at Octane's attempt. But he has to admit... it's nice. To be thought of that way again. He settles for an engine rev.*

< Who's to say you're not the danger? >

*Octane stands back upright then shrugs while staring down at Wheeljack with a playful glint in his optics.*

I’d like to think I’m pretty harmless. But, maybe Autobots have different views on what’s dangerous and what’s not..

< Don't sell yourself short, Oc. >

*He takes another step closer.*

< Like I said. You're sharp. I'd bet you're sharp enough to hurt. >

*He hums, thinking.*

*This is fine. This is definitely not a mistake. It's fine. No one will find out.*

< Octane? > *He calls out before he can change his mind.*

*The loud hum of a commercial airplane descending fills the air before it transforms and Octane drops from the sky, landing on his pedes with ease.*

Wheeljack, hello. I’ve been waiting for you.

*He stretches his wings, feeling a little stiff from the stronger winds.*

< Eh, I'm not built for off-road, but I managed. >

Yeah? Well, take it all in while you have the time.

…

*Wheeljack. Don't.*

< Yeah? Well... >

*Wheeljack...*

< Glad you offered. >

*he takes another step closer.*

-How..adorable.-

Well, I picked the location, so how about you pick the..activity?

*Octane’s servo then lifts up to trace a single, clawed digit along the edge of Wheeljack’s mask.*

< Sorry, you're gonna have to earn that. But it was good try. >

< You said you wanted to talk though? Get to know me? Then let's talk. >

-A shame.. But, I can wait.-

Fair enough, Wheeljack. I can be patient for you.

Yes. Yes, I very much wish to get to know you.

-Of course, I’ve already done my own research..-

Let’s start with some..ground rules, I suppose.

< Arrangement, huh? >

< Hm... Don't push on the mask thing. Maybe you prove you can behave, you won't wait long. Maybe you will. And if I take it back, you'll move on. >

*Wheeljack begins listing off on his servos* < When I say stop, you stop. If you say stop, I'll stop. This goes for anything. No questions. >

< Let's... try and keep it private, for now. I don't know how, but some humans have already found out, and now they're trying to tell my-- Ah, some of the other Autobots. >

< Everything else... on the table for now. >

*Octane shrugs lightly, his gaze trained on Wheeljack.*

-Behave?-

*Octane’s engine briefly stutters through a rev and his large wings flutter simultaneously, such wording of a challenge hitting him right in the spark. In the best way possible, of course.*

Understood. Definitely understood.

*He then falls quiet to allow the Autobot to speak.*

Alright. Okay.

Well, I agree with the stopping when we’re told to stop and keeping this private. I am respectful of how far you want to go, and I’m pleased you share the same sentiment. I also value my privacy—I don’t trust those often—especially considering we’re not in the same faction.

< No wings, right. You don't need a reason, but... door's always open. >

*Octane exhales softly while instinctively flicking back his wings.*

Mm.. Not that I can think of currently.

*Octane shifts his hips, putting his weight from one leg to the other. He’s not always the best at staying still.*

I developed an opinion on you based off of the words of other bots and my own research before we met. I quite liked what I had heard. But, then I met you. And, well, the real thing was so much better.

You’re smart and you stick up for yourself even while handing your trust so easily to a stranger like me. You’re curious but logical, and that throughly intrigues me.

You’re also quite attractive in my optics.

So, I really couldn’t help myself. I just had to see you. Especially after our little experiment..

< But... >

*His servos make circles in the air, makes waves, illustrating his next words. As if the true meaning can't be fully dug up without motion; his wings eventually join in, his audial fins lighting even brighter as he goes on.*

< After the other night, I... >

< You're smart. I'd say bright, but, heh. You're witty, your processor is almost as fast as your vocalizer. >

< You're sharp. Your eyes, smile, everything. Persistent, too. You know what you want, and why. And you'll take as long as you need to get it. >

< But you're restrained. >

< And yet there's... Something else. Just under all that. Just out of reach. Another reason for restrictions that isn't just my comfort. A mystery I need to solve. >

*Octane merely watches and listens to Wheeljack after saying that. He can admit that stalking was..an interesting choice, but what was he supposed to do?*

*The more Wheeljack speaks, the stiffer and tenser Octane grows. First, he shifts to be standing completely straight with his arms at his sides, then his wings press closer towards his back—his optics never leave the other bot, however.*

*Eventually, the grey of Octane’s cheeks start to be slowly tainted by a vibrant but faint blue. His vents even puff out steam.*

*Octane isn’t used to anyone caring to pay this much attention to him outside of his ability to transport bots and fuel. Part of him feels the desire to shut down and take off, but the other bit that really wants this to work out keeps him from going.*

…

Oh.

Well.

Hm.

You..have really good observation skills.

*Say something, quick, anything. Change the subject before it gets more stifling.*

< Heh, yeah. I get that a lot. >

Hm.

Do you understand what..this..entails?

You’re an Autobot. I’m a Decepticon.

Do you understand that this isn’t conventional and that there will be judgement?

< It puts everything I've worked for on the line. Now, I don't mind a dent or scratch to myself, but it also puts everyone I care about in danger. >

< If anything happens to them, it would kill me. >

< And judgement... nothing I don't already hear. And besides... some of them have done worse. >

Wheeljack, you are quite the bot, you know? So dedicated and careful of those you hold close to your spark..

And, now, you’re sneaking around with me. So odd. But, I like it.

*Octane shoots Wheeljack a grin and flutters his wings at the latter.*

Oh, of course I can handle it.

Wheeljack, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Decepticons hardly trust me nor do they like me. I am, admittedly, flaky at best when it comes to my allegiance, so this would not come as too much of a shock to them. They only keep me around for my alt modes.

*Wheeljack doesn't let himself finish. Not there yet.*

< Hm. > *Wheeljack stills, schooling his expression to one more of neutrality or worry, rather than letting Octane know just everything he thinks of the Decepticons.* < Right. >

*Octane then bends at his hips to be closer to Wheeljack’s height.*

*The view is really nice...*

*So nice, that Wheeljack holds back his huff of laughter at Octane's attempt. But he has to admit... it's nice. To be thought of that way again. He settles for an engine rev.*

< Who's to say you're not the danger? >

*This is fine. This is definitely not a mistake. It's fine. No one will find out.*

< Octane? > *He calls out before he can change his mind.*

*The loud hum of a commercial airplane descending fills the air before it transforms and Octane drops from the sky, landing on his pedes with ease.*

Wheeljack, hello. I’ve been waiting for you.

*He stretches his wings, feeling a little stiff from the stronger winds.*

< Eh, I'm not built for off-road, but I managed. >

Yeah? Well, take it all in while you have the time.

…

*Wheeljack. Don't.*

< Yeah? Well... >

*Wheeljack...*

< Glad you offered. >

*he takes another step closer.*

-How..adorable.-

Well, I picked the location, so how about you pick the..activity?

*Octane’s servo then lifts up to trace a single, clawed digit along the edge of Wheeljack’s mask.*

< Sorry, you're gonna have to earn that. But it was good try. >

< You said you wanted to talk though? Get to know me? Then let's talk. >

-A shame.. But, I can wait.-

Fair enough, Wheeljack. I can be patient for you.

Yes. Yes, I very much wish to get to know you.

-Of course, I’ve already done my own research..-

Let’s start with some..ground rules, I suppose.

< Arrangement, huh? >

< Hm... Don't push on the mask thing. Maybe you prove you can behave, you won't wait long. Maybe you will. And if I take it back, you'll move on. >

*Wheeljack begins listing off on his servos* < When I say stop, you stop. If you say stop, I'll stop. This goes for anything. No questions. >

< Let's... try and keep it private, for now. I don't know how, but some humans have already found out, and now they're trying to tell my-- Ah, some of the other Autobots. >

< Everything else... on the table for now. >

*Octane shrugs lightly, his gaze trained on Wheeljack.*

-Behave?-

*Octane’s engine briefly stutters through a rev and his large wings flutter simultaneously, such wording of a challenge hitting him right in the spark. In the best way possible, of course.*

Understood. Definitely understood.

*He then falls quiet to allow the Autobot to speak.*

Alright. Okay.

Well, I agree with the stopping when we’re told to stop and keeping this private. I am respectful of how far you want to go, and I’m pleased you share the same sentiment. I also value my privacy—I don’t trust those often—especially considering we’re not in the same faction.

< No wings, right. You don't need a reason, but... door's always open. >

*Octane exhales softly while instinctively flicking back his wings.*

Mm.. Not that I can think of currently.

*Octane shifts his hips, putting his weight from one leg to the other. He’s not always the best at staying still.*

I developed an opinion on you based off of the words of other bots and my own research before we met. I quite liked what I had heard. But, then I met you. And, well, the real thing was so much better.

You’re smart and you stick up for yourself even while handing your trust so easily to a stranger like me. You’re curious but logical, and that throughly intrigues me.

You’re also quite attractive in my optics.

So, I really couldn’t help myself. I just had to see you. Especially after our little experiment..

< But... >

*His servos make circles in the air, makes waves, illustrating his next words. As if the true meaning can't be fully dug up without motion; his wings eventually join in, his audial fins lighting even brighter as he goes on.*

< After the other night, I... >

< You're smart. I'd say bright, but, heh. You're witty, your processor is almost as fast as your vocalizer. >

< You're sharp. Your eyes, smile, everything. Persistent, too. You know what you want, and why. And you'll take as long as you need to get it. >

< But you're restrained. >

< And yet there's... Something else. Just under all that. Just out of reach. Another reason for restrictions that isn't just my comfort. A mystery I need to solve. >

*Octane merely watches and listens to Wheeljack after saying that. He can admit that stalking was..an interesting choice, but what was he supposed to do?*

*The more Wheeljack speaks, the stiffer and tenser Octane grows. First, he shifts to be standing completely straight with his arms at his sides, then his wings press closer towards his back—his optics never leave the other bot, however.*

*Eventually, the grey of Octane’s cheeks start to be slowly tainted by a vibrant but faint blue. His vents even puff out steam.*

*Octane isn’t used to anyone caring to pay this much attention to him outside of his ability to transport bots and fuel. Part of him feels the desire to shut down and take off, but the other bit that really wants this to work out keeps him from going.*

…

Oh.

Well.

Hm.

You..have really good observation skills.

*Say something, quick, anything. Change the subject before it gets more stifling.*

< Heh, yeah. I get that a lot. >

Hm.

Do you understand what..this..entails?

You’re an Autobot. I’m a Decepticon.

Do you understand that this isn’t conventional and that there will be judgement?

< It puts everything I've worked for on the line. Now, I don't mind a dent or scratch to myself, but it also puts everyone I care about in danger. >

< If anything happens to them, it would kill me. >

< And judgement... nothing I don't already hear. And besides... some of them have done worse. >

Wheeljack, you are quite the bot, you know? So dedicated and careful of those you hold close to your spark..

And, now, you’re sneaking around with me. So odd. But, I like it.

*Octane shoots Wheeljack a grin and flutters his wings at the latter.*

Oh, of course I can handle it.

Wheeljack, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Decepticons hardly trust me nor do they like me. I am, admittedly, flaky at best when it comes to my allegiance, so this would not come as too much of a shock to them. They only keep me around for my alt modes.

*Wheeljack doesn't let himself finish. Not there yet.*

< Hm. > *Wheeljack stills, schooling his expression to one more of neutrality or worry, rather than letting Octane know just everything he thinks of the Decepticons.* < Right. >