after TFOne ends, Optimus and Elita become a couple. On the surface, it seems like a no-brainer. She’s his second in command. She’s always by his side. They understand each other. Everyone expects them to be the next Solus Prime and Megatronus.
Even in private, Elita and Optimus are quite affectionate - this relationship is real. Not political, not media-based. It’s real. They kiss, they hold hands, they have sex. They complete each other in many ways. Elita thrives.
Optimus is… fine.
In truth, he’s been needing someone who can hold him, someone who can help relieve some stress, and who understands. Being a Prime isn’t easy, especially when he’s the only one. And while she can’t understand that, she understands the rest. She’s attractive. They have a history together. They have a connection that helps shrink the hole in his spark.
But… on long nights, when it’s just the two of them together, Optimus can’t stop the disappointment. She’s strong from cycles in the mines, but there’s not a raw, barely contained power in her touch. Her plating is smooth, rounded, not angled or sharp. When he opens his eyes, he sees a stunning magenta, not muted grays. When he looks into her eyes as she calls his name, he sees an electric blue that reminds him of his own - not warm amber that he could sink into. When he runs his hands over her shoulders, there’s no slight bump - the edge of the decal.
But still, when he closes his eyes… he can still imagine someone else in her place.
He tries his hardest to not say his name, even if he’s all he can think about when he’s with her. He comes close. Many times.
He feels awful. Elita deserves so much better than this. But the selfishness of Orion Pax never truly went away. And, if she’s happy… how could he deny her that?
She doesn’t need to know.
