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A Love Out of Reach
TFG1 OPxJ
Feelings for the Prime

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Prowl was over the second moon of Cybertron as he entered the grand halls with a rare smile filling his face. That little date with Bluestreak ended with a big and delightful kiss from the cute little merchant who was all too eager to meet with Prowl again. Prowl felt like that Primus himself had blessed him with a beautiful gift and that gift was that cute little merchant named Bluestreak. He had never been so happy before in his whole life and he was eager to tell Jazz. After all if it weren't for him he would have never met the little cutie. As he walked through the grand halls he guessed that the function had ended after seeing a few Alpha's retiring to their chambers. Moonracer bumped into him and gave him a full report.

The Sim Fur Senetors were impressed with the function and were already planning to offer their support. Lord Prixus however just came to mock Optimus Prime which didn't surprise Prowl at all. If he had the opportunity to make Optimus look like a fool he'd take it no matter what the expense. To his surprise he learned that Alpha Trion had returned with guests. He had brought the previous Supreme Commander Kup who was now living in Kalis as a Cadet Trainer. he had also brought a young Omega Superior named Hot Rod who Kup was tutoring. The young mech was a well breed Omega Superior who was sadly separated from his family and but was raised by a noble family. Kup had been hired to tutor him and take care of him when his adopted creators weren't around which was pretty much all the time. The reason that he was here shocked Prowl. After meeting the young mech Alpha Trion and with his creator he thought he would would make a suitable mate for one of his sons and had brought him to Iacon to meet them. That was unexpected of Alpha Trion but Prowl had a few good ideas why he did that.

He thanked Moonracer and carried on walking to see if Jazz was still up. He must of been happy too if he learned that the Sim Fur senators were going to offer their support. Walking down the hallways until he at last came to the young Gamma's room he was pleased to see that the light was still on. He knocked gently and awaited an answer. However he never got one. Did he fall into recharge with the lights on? He knocked again and still got no answer. He frowned slightly and decided to open the door a little to take a peek inside. peering in he saw that Jazz was curled up on his berth. He was still awake but he didn't seem to notice Prowl coming in. At the time Prowl didn't know that Jazz was depressed for reasons he couldn't explain.

Prowl walked in and gently closed the door behind him. He was determined to find out why Jazz was looking so glum. Why was he glum? The Sim Fur senators had agreed to offer their support so why was he so upset. Jazz didn't even notice Prowl come in. Was he that upset? What could of upset him like this? Sitting down next to the berth on a small stool the Enforcer Captain tried to catch the you Gamma's attention.

'Jazz? What's wrong? You didn't even see me come in.'

Jazz didn't answer. Instead he made a feeble attempt to hide his face in the pillows he was resting on. He must of been really depressed. Did something happen at the function? Moon racer had stated that the whole thing went very well and Jazz was loved by the Sim Fur senators. So what had happened to get him looking like this? Prowl sighed and tried again with a different approach.

'I heard the Sim Fur senators have agreed to offer their support! We're one step closer to having the Gamma's live up here with us. You should be pleased.'

The young Gamma made no reply. His silence was starting to get on Prowl's nerves.

'OK...seroisly what's the matter? Did an Alpha insult you or something?'

At long last Jazz looked up at him and answered.

'No...Alpha's didn't do anything.'

Prowl now looked puzzled.

'Was it Ultra Magnus? Did he say something?'

'No...I never crossed his path during the party.'

'Did Lord Cortexion do something?'

'Nope.'

'...Lord Prixus didn't do anything...did he?'

The image of that scary Omega Superior returned to haunt Jazz's CPU. Those evil red optics, that cold glare and the wicked smile. He gave the young Gamma the chills just thinking about him. However he wasn't the main reason Jazz was feeling so gloomy so he shook his head making Prowl even more confused as to why Jazz was down in the dumps. He couldn't get that image out of his head of Optimus with that younger and cuter Omega Superior he saw at the function. The fact that the Alpha's were all saying that he and Optimus would make a perfect couple. It made his Spark ache just to think about that. The very idea of it made Jazz hurt deep inside. But why was it hurting him? He had told himself over and over that he and Optimus were not meant to be...but his Spark was telling him otherwise.

Prowl had given up on trying to find out why Jazz was so upset so he decided to talk about something else hoping it would cheer him up a little. Little did he know that he was about to bring up the topic that was causing the problem in the first place.

'I heard that Alpha Trion had returned and he bought a couple of guests. Apparently one of them is a real cutie.'

Jazz frowned as the image of that pretty little Omega Superior popped into his head. Even though everyone around here was falling head over heels for him he felt nothing but hate and anger when he thought of him. He didn't even realize he was gnawing at his own pillow as he projected these images into his CPU. The real annoying thing was that he didn't know WHY he hated the young mech. He had only seen him for a few clicks and had heard that he was a potential mate for Optimus Prime. So why was he so angry? Could it be that he was jealous? Why was he jealous?

Prowl had noticed and he looked down at the young Gamma confused. He wasn't used to seeing someone gnawing at their pillow. Was he upset about the young Omega Superior? Why would he? Apparently he never crossed his path during the whole function. So why was he acting like this? Jazz just continued to gnaw at the poor pillow and snarl in a low tone.

'He's so fragging pretty and everyone thinks he's the perfect mate for Optimus! Decorated in bright colours and looking so dam cute!' snapped Jazz.

The Enforcer Captain titled his head, puzzled at what Jazz had just said. He was acting as if he was envious of the young Omega Superior's beauty and that even though everyone was pleased that Optimus had found a possible future mate, he wasn't. Then he put the two together and only one possible result surfaced as to why Jazz was acting like this.

'Are you...jealous?'

That word alone made Jazz sit up with a red face and he shook his head in denial.

'N-no! Why would I be? He's the Prime and I'm a Gamma in case ya didn't notice.'

Prowl leaned back as Jazz shouted at him. Then he smirked when Jazz suddenly buried his face in a pillow. He WAS jealous. Like Ratchet who could spot a liar Prowl could easily tell when a mech was in denial. It was pretty much the same thing but Ratchet had to look at a mech's readings before he could prove anything and Prowl was built to know if a mech or femme was in denial. Jazz was pretty much on the top of the scale.

'You ARE jealous,' he said with a triumphant grin.

Jazz said nothing but tried to hide within his pillows which proved difficult. It was true. He was jealous that Optimus was probably sitting with him right now in a romantic garden sharing small but lovey dovey talk with one another. The very thought of it made Jazz's Spark twitch and jump in anger. Prowl just sat there wondering why he hadn't noticed it before. Optimus was indeed a looker and the Enforcer Captain had to admit even he dreamed about sharing a berth with Optimus. But that was vorns ago and now he saw Optimus as a good friend and nothing more. He was guessing that Jazz was merely going through a phase where he developed a crush on the Prime and that was all. He leaned forward and tried to get Jazz to look at him.

'Look I haven't met this young Omega Supirio yet but if I know Optimus he's trying to find a polite way to turn him down.'

That made Jazz look up at Prowl with a small glimmer of hope in his optics.

'Ya think?' he asked.

'Look...I can't say why but Optimus isn't really keen on having a relationship forced on him. He wants to find someone in his own time. Heck I don't even know why Alpha Trion would do that behind his back but even he has his reasons.'

Jazz sat up a little more when he notice a troubling look on Prowl's face. Was there something he didn't know? In fact back at the function he remembered Lord Prixus saying something about Optimus Prime's past experience that got him into a bit of trouble. Upon hearing that said to him Optimus was unable to answer back. In fact when it was announced that Alpha Trion had arrived he didn't even try to say anything to Jazz and left him there with the Sim Fur senators. Was he upset that something from his past was mentioned and that he wasn't keen to share it with Jazz? Or did he just want to get away from him? Prowl sighed and tried once again to change the topic.

'So what happened after the function?'

'Oh...well I chatted with the Sim Fur senators until the function ended and they wished to see me again. Mirage then caught up with me and escorted me back to my room. Optimus had already left with his creator and brother...and that pretty little Omega Superior.'

Prowl noticed that Jazz was looking glum at that last bit.

'Wait...are you upset that Optimus didn't come to say good night or something?'

That was true...after the function Optimus didn't even come over to say good night or anything. He just left with his family and that cute little mech. Prowl shrugged and tried to make sense of the situation.

'Look Optimus hasn't seen his creator for a very long time. He must of been so eagar to see him that he just kinda forgot about everything esle. Don't think that he hates you or something. He just wanted to see his creator that's all.'

In a way that did make a little sense. It was a little hard for him to understand since his family wasn't exactly something he missed. It was rather cruel to think about them like that but Jazz was very young when one of his creator's died and the other left him. However he and Optimus were raised in two different worlds so things to the both of them were viewed differently. He guessed what Prowl had said was true. To be apart from someone you knew and cared about for so long must of made him forget about everything else.

'Thanks for that Prowl...guess I was just acting like a depressed Sparkling back there.'

The Enforcer Captain shrugged.

'It's fine. You'll see...by tomorrow Optimus will come running back to you saying how sorry he was when he just left you there. I know him too well. He's probably regretting it right now.'

Now that he thought about Jazz could actually picture Optimus with a guilt ridden face after realizing he just left Jazz standing there all by himself. It made him snicker at the thought of it. Glad to see that Jazz was now looking a little happier Prowl decided to fill him in on his date with Bluestreak and Jazz didn't mind at all to listen how his night went with the chatty merchant.

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The next morning was bright as yesterday's and Prowl was taking Jazz to get some Energon in a small canteen. The Enforcer Captain was surprised to see that some of the Alpha's weren't giving Jazz evil looks like they always did. Jazz explained afterwards that at the function he learned that many Alpha's were impressed with his little joke at Lord Cortexion. That didn't surprise Prowl too much but he just shrugged it off and carried on walking. Jazz didn't want to bring it up right away but as the morning wore on he had to ask where Optimus was. Prowl sighed and explained that the Prime was having a private breakfast with Alpha Trion, Ultra Magnus and their guests...he didn't say anything about the young Gamma. Jazz sighed looking a little disappointed but hopefully Optimus would call for him later on. After grabbing their Energon and walking on to find a quiet place to sit they noticed a small crowd of Alpha's peering out the window. The two mechs could hear what they were saying.

'Don't they look so cute together?'

'If only he was an Alpha.'

'He's soooo cute! Optimus Prime is so lucky!'

'Never mind him...is that THE Kup? The previous General of Cybertron's armies and the previous Supreme Commander?'

'I heard that he decided to look after young mechs with potential...I guess that little cutie has something he's interested.'

'That means he's perfect for Optimus Prime right?'

Prowl and Jazz looked at each other before walking over to a window overlooking the same area the Alpha's were looking at. looking through it they saw that Optimus, Ultra Magnus, their Creator Alpha Trion and the two guests were sitting within a small but beautiful garden having fine quality Energon served. Jazz's Spark flinched again when he saw that Optimus was sitting right next to the young Omega Superior whilst talking to Alpha Trion. Ultra Magnus was busy talking to the older mech, known as Kup, and the little cutie, known as Hot Rod, just sat there remaining silent.

At first Jazz felt nothing but deep jealous hatred for the young mech but as they watched he noticed that this Hot Rod was...bored. He just sat there fiddling with his empty glass of Energon and every time he did Kup would lean over and knock him on his helm causing the young mech to sit up straight and try to look interested. However once Kup had took his optics off him and started talking to Ultra Magnus again the young mech would start all over again. He even let out a deep sigh that went unnoticed. Didn't he want to be there or something? However when Optimus at last said something to him he looked up at him and blushed brightly but was unable to say anything. Prowl looked at the young mech too and noticed something as well.

'He's...a little young for Optimus...in fact he's way too young for Optimus.'

Jazz looked at Prowl confused.

'Too young? But then why would his Creator try to set him up with him if he's too young?'

Prowl pondered for a moment as he tried to figure this one out.

'Well...Alpha Trion was in Kalis for a while and he does have powerful friends over there. I could only guess that he must of made some sort of deal with one of them.'

'A deal?'

'Omega Superior's with power are like that. They only want more power and if they have a friend with equal power they would try to get their hands on it to make them look even more powerful. I'm guessing that Alpha Trion met a friend who offered his son as a potential mate for his own son for something in return.'

Jazz looked back at the group of higher ups horrified at this sudden fact. They did that sort of thing without even thinking of their Sparkling's feelings? Someone went up to Alpha Trion and said I'll give you my son to bond with your son in exchange for something! That sounded just as bad as what the Alpha's did. Prowl had however more to say.

'Alpha Trion isn't the kind of mech who seeks to gain more power. He's the kind of mech who just wants whats best for his sons. I have heard rumours that he has been looking for the perfect mate for both of them. I guess he's been doing that since Optimus isn't looking for a mate at the moment and Ultra Magnus...let's just say I'd be surprised if he ever got a mate. Still...I wonder why he decided to bring someone this young?'

As they continued to watch they saw another mech enter the garden. He too was an Omega Superior and he acted very ecstatic as he took a seat next to Alpha Trion and started to talk away with a big cheesy grin on his face. As he chatted away Hot Rod suddenly folded his arms and looked a little angry. Kup just sighed and said something to Ultra Magnus who nodded in agreement with whatever he said. Optimus just sat there and listened as this new mech and his creator talked away. Who was that? Prowl had a good guess who it was.

'I'm guessing that's the mech Alpha Trion made the deal with...the little one's Creator.'

That made some sense. He looked way too happy whilst everyone else looked a little uneasy being around him. Before the pair of them could even think about walking off a young femme suddenly appeared and she seemed to be in a rush. When she spotted Prowl she ran up to him to deliver a message.

'Oh Prowl there you are! Have you seen the...oh he's here with you good. Optimus wants him to attend the little breakfast talk out there. Apparently the Senator of Kalis wishes to meet with him.'

As Prowl accepted the message Jazz suddenly felt some more of his nerves kick in. Attend breakfast with them? If it was just Optimus then yeah that would be fine but he was also going to be in the presence of Ultra Magnus, a younger and prettier mech who was possibly Optimus's future mate, Optimus's Creator, a well respected old mech and another Senator. He wasn't even sure if he could handle all that, even though he did attend a function that was filled with higher ups. Once Prowl was finished with the femme he looked back to Jazz.

'OK Jazz looks like you're going to see Optimus a little sooner than I expected. Just play it cool, remember how to act around a senator and don't say anything unless they speak to you. Moonracer here will take you there so try to relax.'

Before Jazz could even say anything the femme grabbed Jazz's hand and dragged him off. For a short young femme she had quite a grip and didn't let go of Jazz until they reached the entrance of the garden that was of course guarded. As the femme told them who they were and why they were there they allowed them access without question. However the femme wasn't going in. Instead she looked up at Jazz and gave him some quick and simple instructions.

'Don't look at him, talk to him and even think of him! Keep your optics to yourself, don't say anything and please try to smile!'

Before he could even ask which mech she was talking about she pushed Jazz into the garden. Before Jazz could even try and say anything to her she was gone. All he could hear was the loud chatter coming from the other side of the garden. Knowing that he couldn't go back now he took a deep breath and slowly walked towards the loud chatter. The closer he got the louder the annoying voice became. Peering over a small statue he finally spotted the group sitting at an elegant ivory table. Ultra Magnus was engaged in a conversation with Kup. Hot Rod was just sitting there looking both bored and annoyed. Optimus looked like he was trying to listen to what the Kalis senator was saying as was Alpha Trion. It wasn't exactly a happy family portrait but Jazz had seen worse.

Stepping forward slightly his black and white frame caught the attention of Optimus, who seemed all to eager to change the subject with the Kalis senator. Clearing his throat loudly so that everyone would stop talking he announced the arrival of his guest.

'Senator Xion I would like you to meet my guest and dear friend Jazz.'

Optimus waved his hand over to where Jazz was standing and everyone turned to look at him. Jazz was a little surprised to find that he wasn't as nervous as he was expecting himself to be. Instead he found himself calmly walking over towards them as they stared at him. Alpha Trion seemed to be studying him with his ancient optics. Kup looked at him and he appeared puzzled for some reason. Ultra Magnus gave him a cold look like he always did. The senator looked at Jazz and looked as if he was trying to look interested in him. The young Hot Rod looked at him with optics filled with curiosity. Jazz just did his best not to look silly as he walked towards them. Optimus offered him a seat which, to Jazz's disappointment, was right between the young Hot Rod and his creator. Jazz didn't argue as he sat down and said nothing as the senator looked at him some more.

'I have to say he wasn't what I was expecting to be. However the plain name he has sounds very Gamma-like. He isn't too bad looking I suppose...but I have seen better looking mechs comapred to him...no offense little Gamma.'

Now Jazz was trying his best to frown, as was Optimus. This senator was pretty much insulting him right there but nobody was saying anything. Not even Optimus. However Kup had something different to say.

'I've seen many Gamma's in my time Senator Xion and many of them weren't that plain looking. In fact they're a very unique class.'

Senator Xion suddenly shot Kup a nasty glare.

'Why doesn't that surprise me Kup. You prefer spending time with lower class mechs than your own kind. You're a disgrace to your own class!'

Kup just shrugged and downed his Energon. Alpha Trion then cut in hoping to calm the Kalis Senator's sudden anger.

'Now, now Xion everyone has their own opinion. I believe that we could learn something from the Gamma's if they are accepted into our society.'

'Alpha Trion I respect you greatly but "learn" something from them? What do they have to teach us? How to con someone out of their credits? Hah! So little Gamma what do you do for a living?'

Jazz was wondering why Optimus wasn't defending him like he always did. He quickly glanced at him to see that he was just observing them calmly from where he sat. Why wasn't he doing anything? Looking back at the senator he gave him an honest answer.

'I work in an Energon Bar sir.'

'Really...thought you were a pleasurebot or something.'

Jazz could of sworn he heard something snap and glancing over at Optimus he noticed that he was clutching his hands together very tightly and his left optic brow was twitching every now again. But still he said nothing. Kup muttered something under his breath whilst Ultra Magnus did not react at all as usual. Xion just laughed at what he thought was a good joke and then turned his attention back to Alpha Trion.

'So Alpha Trion...doesn't my little one look absolutely perfect for your Optimus there. He might act like a shy little femme but he's quite the loud one. He also has a quality Spark chamber that can safely carry a developing Sparkling...'

The young Gamma sighed quietly. It seemed like he was only interested in getting his young and pretty off-spring to bond with Optimus. As he went on and on about Hot Rod's good qualities Jazz began to think about it a little more. Maybe Optimus bonding with the young mech was a good idea. He was a political figure and if he were to take even the slightest bit of interest in him then the media would plaster it all over their news broadcast making Optimus look bad. However if he was with a young and pretty Omega Supirior then the media would make it look the bonding of the stellar cycle. Compared to him...Jazz was nothing more than a worthless street bum.

As Xion boasted away about how great Hot Rod was, the young Omega Supirior suddenly stood up.

'I-I have to take a breather for a nano-click. I'll be right back.'

Xion just looked at him for a moment before waving his hand in a fashion as if to say go ahead. Hot Rod then turned and walked in a very fast manner towards an area in the garden that no one could see. Was he just getting excited about the whole thing or was it his nerves? They all watched him go and many them seemed concerned...except for Xion.

'He's just nervous. You know what young mechs are like today.'

Optimus watched as Hot Rod disappeared into the garden and Jazz noticed he did indeed look worried about the young mech. It made his Spark ache and he clutched his chassis in the hopes to calm it down. Did Optimus care about him in that way? Was he interested in becoming Hot Rod's Bondmate? As Jazz tried not to think about it Kup suddenly spoke up.

'He's been acting funny ever since we got here. I should go check on him.'

Xion however halted him from doing so.

'No Kup he'll be fine. He just needs a breather so let him be.'

Kup looked like he was about to growl but no sound came out.

'Senator Xion...Hot Rod may appear tough to you but he is quite fragile. You wouldn't know of course since you barely see him.'

Xion suddenly growled loudly for everyone to hear. It was quite clear now that he and Kup didn't get along very well. Optimus sat up slightly and Xion suddenly noticed the not-very-impressed look on Optimus Prime's face. However this Senator was a smart one and he suddenly looked over at Jazz.

'W-well Optimus Prime...since you trust this Gamma so much why not have him check up on my little one.'

That surprised everyone at the table...even Jazz.

'You wouldn't mind?' asked Optimus.

'Well Optimus Prime if you trust him so much why shouldn't I? Plus it would prove to me that Gamma's can preform a simple task meaning I have something to report to the other senator's of Kalis meaning that we'll quickly give you our support, everyone's happy and we all get what we want.'

It wasn't a simple task at all...it was far too easy! Was this mech trying to further insult Jazz or did he just want to get rid of him now that he met him? That last part made Alpha Trion frown though. He clearly wasn't happy with what Xion was saying. Optimus just sighed and looked at Jazz.

'Do you mind?' he asked.

Jazz looked back and at first he wasn't sure what to say. It was clear now what that deal was that Prowl was talking about. If Optimus becomes Hot Rod's Bondmate than he'd quickly get the support of the Kalis city. Also this senator Xion would suddenly become very popular when everyone found out that his child is Bonded with the Prime. There wasn't any real love involved. It was all just business. Did that mean Optimus was prepared to Bond with another mech just so Jazz and the rest of the Gamma's could live a happy life? Was he willing to go that far for this cause? Or was there more to it? Still if he could prove to a senator that he can carry out a simple task then sure...why not? Trying to smile as best he could he stood up.

'Sure I don't mind.'

He quickly turned and left to find the young mech. He didn't even look back as Xion continued to chatter away about what a perfect Bondmate his child would make. He felt different for some reason. Had Optimus just summoned him here to show him his future Bondmate? No...he may not of known Optimus for long but he knew he wasn't like that. But why was Optimus not defending him when the senator spoke about him in such a way? Also did he really like the young mech?

Jazz tried to force these thoughts out of his CPU as he looked for the young mech. The garden wasn't that big and he soon found him sitting on a bench with his face buried in his hands. He wasn't crying but he did appear to look miserable. Maybe he too did not want to Bond with Optimus but as Jazz recalled he was blushing every time Optimus turned to face him he would blush like a lovestruck mech who was in the presence of his crush. As Jazz walked towards him the young mech looked up and seemed surprise to see Jazz there.

'Oh...Jazz was it? Did they send you to check on me?'

The young Gamma stopped in front of him and nodded. He didn't speak just in case he said something that might upset the young mech. Plus the femme did say something about not talking to someone...he just didn't know who she meant. Hot Rod smirked and sat up.

'Don't worry I don't bite. You can talk to me...I don't mind.'

The youth then patted the empty space on the bench inviting him to sit down with him. Jazz had only been asked to see if he was OK but he guessed it wouldn't hurt to share a small conversation with him. Honestly he still didn't like him too well for an unknown reason. Sitting down next to him the youth looked at Jazz and smiled.

'You know you weren't what I was expecting to look like. When Kup told me I was going to meet a Gamma I thought of all the stories the instructors at the academy told us about you. That you were evil robbers and crooks. But when I saw you I realized that they were just a bunch of liars. You're actually really pretty.'

That was one of the nicest compliments that Jazz had ever recieved ever since he came up here. The young mech didn't appear to be lying and he just looked at Jazz with a sweet smile on his face.

'So...how did you meet Optimus Prime?' he asked.

Jazz looked up the youth to see that he looked very interested in the topic he had just brought up. Did he really want to know how he and Optimus met? Or was he just interested in hearing stories about Optimus? Even so the young Gamma thought it wouldn't hurt to tell him since it wasn't really such a big secret anymore.

'I...I met him down in the slums. He was looking for someone and I offered to help.'

Hot Rod tilted his head.

'Who was he looking for?'

'A friend...he wandered down there and Optimus got worried...so he went to look for him. To be honest I had no idea he was the Prime when I first met him...I just thought he was a tall Alpha.'

The young mech snickered at the little comment.

'Well don't tell him but that's what my creator thinks too. He says that Optimus Prime doesn't even look like a Prime! He looks like a plain old Alpha.'

That made Jazz laugh softly for some reason. Maybe it was because he thought it was ironic that both a Gamma and an Omega Superior both thought that Optimus looked more like an Alpha than an Omega Superior. If Optimus found out he'd probably make a small attempt to make himself look more the part. The small joke had made Jazz relax as he sat next to the youth. Also the young mech didn't look so sad anymore.

'I'm really sorry for what my creator said about you...well he isn't really my real creator. He adopted me when I was little just to make himself look good. I barely see him...all he cares about his fame and work...to him...I'm just a tool.'

He suddenly looked sad again. Clearly he wasn't happy about his planned out life. Maybe he didn't really love Optimus either. He was just being forced into it to make his adoptive parent look good. That made Jazz feel a little better for some reason. Hot Rod then let out a deep sigh and looked towards the sky. What he said next surprised Jazz.

'It must be nice to be trusted by someone from another rank.'

The youth's expression changed to a more saddened one. Jazz could only guess that something was bothering him and he didn't know how to deal with it. Did it have something to do with Optimus? Or maybe his own creator? Whatever the reason it must of been troubling him greatly. Kup had said that ever since he arrived here he had been acting funny. Was it nerves? Or something else that Jazz couldn't even begin to understand? After a moment or so Hot Rod suddenly looked up at Jazz.

'Can I ask you a question?'

A question? What would an Omega Supirior want to ask a Gamma? The youth looked at him with pleading optics and Jazz couldn't find it in his Spark to say no. He didn't mind so he nodded and did his best to smile to show he was going to be supportive. The youth suddenly looked a little nervous and he began to fiddle with his digits as he tried to talk.

'W-well...since Optimus Prime trusts you I-I was wondering if I could...w-well get some advice...you see...I...I really want to tell him something...but every time I look at him...or if he looks at me...I...I can't talk...'

The young mech started to blush.

'My Spark begins to pulse at a high level...and...my body starts to heat up and...and I can't speak at all...but there is something I really want to tell him...but...oh Primus...I just don't know what to do! W-what I'm trying to say is...what should I do? I really want to talk to him but I...I'm just so scared at what he might think.'

Jazz felt his Spark ache in his chest as Hot Rod spoke about Optimus using that tone of voice. His cheeks were flushing slightly and he had a distant look in his optics. Could it be that he wanted to tell him...that he loved him?

'W-what did you want to tell him?' asked Jazz.

What the youth said next made the ache in Jazz's Spark grow.

'I-I want to tell him...how I feel...'

It all finally made sense. Hot Rod was in love with Optimus but he was unable to tell him how he felt out of fear of what Optimus may think. Jazz sat there feeling strange emotions boiling up within him. Why did he feel so upset about this? It was all fair after all. Optimus was an Omega Superior and Hot Rod was an Omega Superior...and he was just a Gamma. It was the perfect match. They were perfect for each other and all of Cybertron would rejoice for the Bonded pair. They wouldn't rejoice if Optimus decided to Bond with someone from a lower class.

Looking back at Hot Rod he could see that he was troubled by the fact that he couldn't even express his feelings to his future Bondmate. He must really care for Optimus if this was really troubling him. Heck he was even asking a Gamma for help. He knew he wasn't that good at offering advice but if he could give Optimus a happy life with his new Bondmate than he was going to try.

'I'm not sure if I could help...but I think it's only fair that ya tell him how you feel.'

Hot Rod looked up a little surprise as Jazz continued.

'I've never been in a relationship but...if I found the mech I wanna spend the rest of my life with I'd be completely honest with him. I'd tell him how I feel about him...what my fears are...heck I'd even tell him my dreams. If you're going to be with Optimus I think it's only fair that ya tell him how you feel before you get Bonded. He's a good and kind mech who saved my aft more times than you can count. Even though I was just a Gamma who wouldn't trust a higher up he trusted me completely without even thinking about it. If it weren't for him I...I don't know where I'd be. You have to tell him how you feel about him. It's the right thing to do for if he doesn't know how ya feel about him...then...you're gonna regret it forever.'

After saying all that Jazz felt his Spark ache again and he winced slightly. It was strange. He had given that advice to the youth...but at the same time it felt like he was giving it to himself. Taking in all the advice Jazz had just given him Hot Rod sat up and began to think about it all. Did Jazz's advice help? The young Gamma watched as the youth took in a few short sharp breaths of air. After a while or so Hot Rod then looked up again and smiled.

'Thanks for that Jazz...I...I think I can do it now...I can see now why Optimus trusts you so much...you are a very nice mech...could I just have a moment alone for a nano-click please? Please tell them I won't be long.'

Jazz decided to respect his wishes and got up to leave. As he headed back towards place where the others were waiting he looked back to see that the youth was in deep thought. Was he trying to muster up the courage to speak with Optimus? The ache in his Spark began to act up again. Would he really confess his feelings to Optimus? If he did that would be great for everyone but for some reason Jazz...didn't feel at all happy.

Returning to the table he found all the higher ups doing what they were doing before he left. When they noticed Jazz they all looked up. Senator Xion looked dissapointed that Hot Rod wasn't with him. Optimus however noticed the troubled look on Jazz's face.

'Is something the matter Jazz? Is something wrong with Hot Rod?'

Jazz winced when the pain came back the moment Optimus asked about Hot Rod. Did Optimus really care for the young mech? Was Jazz just in the way? He didn't want him to see him like this. Forcing a small smile on his face he answered back.

'Oh he's fine...he's just nervous that's all...um...he will come back but...'

Before Jazz could finish he detected that someone was approaching him from behind. Looking over his shoulder he saw that Hot Rod had decided to return sooner than expected. He still looked nervous but Jazz could see a hint of determination in his optics. Taking small but fast steps over to Optimus he did his best to try and talk to him.

'Um...O-Optimus Prime s-sir? Can..can w-we talk? In...um...private...please?'

For a moment there was silence. Jazz just felt his Spark ache even more. Even though he was the one who gave Hot Rod the advice he was now starting to wish he hadn't. Optimus looked surprised as the youth stood before him trembling like crazy. He must of had something important to say. Before Optimus could even say anything Xion suddenly stood up with an excited expression on his face.

'Oh isn't this sweet! The love-birds want to have a private moment together! Why don't we respect their wishes and give them some time alone?'

Hot Rod suddenly blushed at the sudden comment his creator made whilst Optimus didn't look at all impressed. It was plain to see that Xion just wanted to promote the so called love between his child and Optimus Prime. However everyone decided to do just that and they all got up to leave. Jazz knew he had to leave too and as he walked towards the garden's exit he looked back to see that Hot Rod had taken a seat next to Optimus. he had done the right thing. He had given the youth the advice he needed to tell Optimus how he felt. Optimus would be happier with a younger and prettier mech that was the same class as he was. All of Cybertron would be happy for them. So...why was it that Jazz felt like...crying? Trying to keep himself together he carried on walking towards the garden's exit where Prowl was waiting for him.

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Optimus felt a little uncomfortable being alone with a mech who was a good one million stellar cycles younger than him. Once everyone had gone Hot Rod had taken a seat next to him. He was still blushing like mad and Optimus could hear his Spark pulsing within his chassis. Then again he was glad that Senator Xion was gone. He truly wanted to punch him for all the terrible things he said about Jazz right there in front of him. However he couldn't and for two very good reasons. The first reason was that he was Alpha Trion's friend and he didn't want to insult his creator by lashing out at him like that. the second was that he was from Kalis. Iacon and Kalis had very unstable relationship. Before his death Sentinel Prime had been trying to stabilize it but was unable to do so. It was the second thing to do on his to do list once he had finished changing the laws that concern the rank and classes of Cybertron.

However when his creator had returned with a Senator and his adopted child from Kalis he thought at first that Alpha Trion had been able to set things straight with the city of Kalis. However Alpha Trion later reveled to him that Hot Rod was a mech that he handpicked himself to be Optimus's future mate. When he was Bonded with him the unstable relationship between Kalis and Iacon would return to normal and Optimus himself would have the perfect mate to spend the rest of his life with. Optimus however...wasn't very happy about it. He still remembered the argument he had with Alpha Trion and his brother last night.

Alpha Trion sat calmly at his desk as Optimus paced the room in an attempt to calm his anger. Ultra Magnus just stood nearby and didn't say anything as his brother began to shout at his own creator.

'Is this some kind of joke! How could you do this to me behind my back! Also that mech is far too young! He has to be at least 10 million stellar cycles old. What were you thinking?'

The ancient mech sighed and tried to explain.

'My dear Optimus...ever since the incident you never get close to anyone. You act like you can but you cannot fool me. I still see the fear in your optics every time you get close to anyone. The fear of being hurt...betrayed...and worse. Now I have had the chance to spend some time with the young mech and he is quite charming and in my personal belief is the perfect one for you. I was only thinking about your welfare...nothing more.'

Optimus said nothing but began to grumble loudly. Ultra Magnus sighed and folded his arms.

'He does have a point Optimus...every Prime has to have a mate and you're not even looking.'

'You're one to talk brother, all you care about is your work.'

Alpha Trion sighed as he watched his two sons argue.

'Optimus please. I did this for a few very good reasons. The first reason is that you need a mate. The second is that he is the adopted child of a Kalis Senator. By Bonding with him you will make our relationship with their city a better one. Also I have heard about what you are doing about changing the laws that involve rank and class. It is a very honorable thing but not many cities will agree with you. If you Bond with him you will have the support of Kalis making your job easier. Don't you want the Gamma's to have an easier life?'

As Alpha Trion finished images of Jazz suddenly popped into Optimus's CPU. Alpha Trion did have a point. Kaon was a softer city compared to the others. If by doing this he could automaticly get Kalis's support then wasn't it worth it? Spend the rest of his life with a mech he barely knew just to see Jazz and the rest of his class happy? Then there was the other issue. It was true. Optimus didn't even bother thinking about finding a mate. The thought never crossed him once. Maybe it was a good idea. Maybe he did have to Bond with this mech to get over it.

The Prime let out a sigh of defeat and slumped into a chair. Alpha Trion rose from where he stood, walking over to where Optimus sat and placing a hand on his shoulder.

'I just want to see you happy Optimus...that is my only wish.'

Optimus sighed as he looked down at the youth. He had something to say but he just couldn't get it out. He was also wondering what Jazz had said to him whilst they were talking together. He didn't think Hot Rod was the type to speak to a Gamma since most Omega Superior's didn't really like them. Time ticked on until at long last Hot Rod looked up with his cute bright red face.

'Um...Optimus...I'm sorry for...for making you wait for me...it's just that I'm not really good at this.'

That was clear to see. Optimus sighed at the youth continued to stammer and stuttered with his words. He must be trying to tell him how he really felt about him. So he gave him a small pat on the helm in an attempt to calm him down.

'It's OK really. I understand if you find it difficult to speak right now...you don't have to tell me right now.'

'B-but I have to tell you right now!' cried the youth looking up suddenly.

The Prime began to wonder what on Cybertron the youth had to say that was so important. Giving him some more time to build up some courage Hot Rod was finally able to say what was on his mind.

'Optimus...after hearing all the stories about you from Kup and to see what you are trying to do to make Cybertron a better place for everyone makes me really glad that I had the chance to meet you. You are a very kind and loving Prime and I'm glad that the matrix chose someone like you. I think you are nice, handsome and a true icon for everyone on Cybertron and I do feel honored that you agreed to Bond with me...but...'

But? Then to Optimus's surprise Hot Rod suddenly stood up and bowed in a polite way as if to say he was sorry for something. But that wasn't what really surprised Optimus...it was what he said next.

'I...I...I do not wish to Bond with you!'

For a moment the garden was filled with silence as Hot Rod remained in that position. Optimus blinked out of surprise. The youth did not wish to Bond with him? That was what he was trying to say? Hot Rod suddenly looked up with watering optics when he realized that the silence was started to drag on.

'I-I'm sorry! I wanted to tell you earlier but I was afraid at what you might say. I thought you might get offended. It's just that when I think about being with you like that it feel's really weird for me. I mean I respect you and all but...I'm really, really sorry!'

As the youth tried his best to not cry Optimus suddenly smiled softly. So that was it. He respected Optimus but he did not love him in a way that lovers loved. He did not wish to be with him like that and had tried to find a way to tell him. However he didn't want to hurt his feelings and quite possibly he was afraid at what his creator might think. As he sat there trembling Optimus placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled.

'It's OK...you don't have to be scared anymore. I'm am not offended by what you have said...in fact I am proud of you. It takes a lot of courage to be able to tell someone like me how you truly felt.'

Hot Rod glanced up slightly and blushed a little.

'S-so...you're not mad?'

Optimus shook his head in response and that made the young mech sit up straight with a more happier expression on his face.

'Oh thank Primus...I was so worried how you would react that I thought I would never be able to tell you how I felt. Then that Gamma, Jazz, came over and he gave me some really helpful advice and I was able to-...'

Optimus halted him there.

'Advice Jazz gave you?'

'Y-yeah...I told him that there was something I really wanted to tell you but I couldn't say it. He told that if I was going to be with I had to be honest since it wouldn't be fair on both on us. He also told me that you were a kind and caring mech who didn't care what rank or class they were and that you would still trust them and that he trusted you. He's...a really good friend.'

Hot Rod smiled as he spoke about Jazz and as he went on and on Optimus felt rather happy. It didn't seem that he was happy about Hot Rod, being an Omega Superior and all, liking Jazz...it was more like...he was happy that Jazz had told Hot Rod how he himself felt about Optimus. Ultra Magnus had been telling him nearly every day that Jazz only cared about the food and shelter he was offering him and that the whole sweet talk thing was just Jazz pretending that he liked Optimus. he had told him so much that Optimus almost believed it. But to hear Hot Rod say that Jazz had told him he was a kind and caring mech that he trusted...made him really happy.

The youth then looked up at Optimus and blushed again.

'I know I don't deserve to ask you of this Optimus Prime...but...can you come with me to tell my creator...please?'

Optimus smiled again and stood up.

'Of course...we'll tell him together...it's the least I can do.'

Hot Rod smiled again and followed Optimus to where everyone was waiting. Even though he was happy to learn how Jazz felt about him Optimus was a little concerned with how the senator would react when he discovered that there wasn't going to be a Bonding ceremony.

Description
A Love Out of Reach
TFG1 OPxJ
Feelings for the Prime

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Prowl was over the second moon of Cybertron as he entered the grand halls with a rare smile filling his face. That little date with Bluestreak ended with a big and delightful kiss from the cute little merchant who was all too eager to meet with Prowl again. Prowl felt like that Primus himself had blessed him with a beautiful gift and that gift was that cute little merchant named Bluestreak. He had never been so happy before in his whole life and he was eager to tell Jazz. After all if it weren't for him he would have never met the little cutie. As he walked through the grand halls he guessed that the function had ended after seeing a few Alpha's retiring to their chambers. Moonracer bumped into him and gave him a full report.

The Sim Fur Senetors were impressed with the function and were already planning to offer their support. Lord Prixus however just came to mock Optimus Prime which didn't surprise Prowl at all. If he had the opportunity to make Optimus look like a fool he'd take it no matter what the expense. To his surprise he learned that Alpha Trion had returned with guests. He had brought the previous Supreme Commander Kup who was now living in Kalis as a Cadet Trainer. he had also brought a young Omega Superior named Hot Rod who Kup was tutoring. The young mech was a well breed Omega Superior who was sadly separated from his family and but was raised by a noble family. Kup had been hired to tutor him and take care of him when his adopted creators weren't around which was pretty much all the time. The reason that he was here shocked Prowl. After meeting the young mech Alpha Trion and with his creator he thought he would would make a suitable mate for one of his sons and had brought him to Iacon to meet them. That was unexpected of Alpha Trion but Prowl had a few good ideas why he did that.

He thanked Moonracer and carried on walking to see if Jazz was still up. He must of been happy too if he learned that the Sim Fur senators were going to offer their support. Walking down the hallways until he at last came to the young Gamma's room he was pleased to see that the light was still on. He knocked gently and awaited an answer. However he never got one. Did he fall into recharge with the lights on? He knocked again and still got no answer. He frowned slightly and decided to open the door a little to take a peek inside. peering in he saw that Jazz was curled up on his berth. He was still awake but he didn't seem to notice Prowl coming in. At the time Prowl didn't know that Jazz was depressed for reasons he couldn't explain.

Prowl walked in and gently closed the door behind him. He was determined to find out why Jazz was looking so glum. Why was he glum? The Sim Fur senators had agreed to offer their support so why was he so upset. Jazz didn't even notice Prowl come in. Was he that upset? What could of upset him like this? Sitting down next to the berth on a small stool the Enforcer Captain tried to catch the you Gamma's attention.

'Jazz? What's wrong? You didn't even see me come in.'

Jazz didn't answer. Instead he made a feeble attempt to hide his face in the pillows he was resting on. He must of been really depressed. Did something happen at the function? Moon racer had stated that the whole thing went very well and Jazz was loved by the Sim Fur senators. So what had happened to get him looking like this? Prowl sighed and tried again with a different approach.

'I heard the Sim Fur senators have agreed to offer their support! We're one step closer to having the Gamma's live up here with us. You should be pleased.'

The young Gamma made no reply. His silence was starting to get on Prowl's nerves.

'OK...seroisly what's the matter? Did an Alpha insult you or something?'

At long last Jazz looked up at him and answered.

'No...Alpha's didn't do anything.'

Prowl now looked puzzled.

'Was it Ultra Magnus? Did he say something?'

'No...I never crossed his path during the party.'

'Did Lord Cortexion do something?'

'Nope.'

'...Lord Prixus didn't do anything...did he?'

The image of that scary Omega Superior returned to haunt Jazz's CPU. Those evil red optics, that cold glare and the wicked smile. He gave the young Gamma the chills just thinking about him. However he wasn't the main reason Jazz was feeling so gloomy so he shook his head making Prowl even more confused as to why Jazz was down in the dumps. He couldn't get that image out of his head of Optimus with that younger and cuter Omega Superior he saw at the function. The fact that the Alpha's were all saying that he and Optimus would make a perfect couple. It made his Spark ache just to think about that. The very idea of it made Jazz hurt deep inside. But why was it hurting him? He had told himself over and over that he and Optimus were not meant to be...but his Spark was telling him otherwise.

Prowl had given up on trying to find out why Jazz was so upset so he decided to talk about something else hoping it would cheer him up a little. Little did he know that he was about to bring up the topic that was causing the problem in the first place.

'I heard that Alpha Trion had returned and he bought a couple of guests. Apparently one of them is a real cutie.'

Jazz frowned as the image of that pretty little Omega Superior popped into his head. Even though everyone around here was falling head over heels for him he felt nothing but hate and anger when he thought of him. He didn't even realize he was gnawing at his own pillow as he projected these images into his CPU. The real annoying thing was that he didn't know WHY he hated the young mech. He had only seen him for a few clicks and had heard that he was a potential mate for Optimus Prime. So why was he so angry? Could it be that he was jealous? Why was he jealous?

Prowl had noticed and he looked down at the young Gamma confused. He wasn't used to seeing someone gnawing at their pillow. Was he upset about the young Omega Superior? Why would he? Apparently he never crossed his path during the whole function. So why was he acting like this? Jazz just continued to gnaw at the poor pillow and snarl in a low tone.

'He's so fragging pretty and everyone thinks he's the perfect mate for Optimus! Decorated in bright colours and looking so dam cute!' snapped Jazz.

The Enforcer Captain titled his head, puzzled at what Jazz had just said. He was acting as if he was envious of the young Omega Superior's beauty and that even though everyone was pleased that Optimus had found a possible future mate, he wasn't. Then he put the two together and only one possible result surfaced as to why Jazz was acting like this.

'Are you...jealous?'

That word alone made Jazz sit up with a red face and he shook his head in denial.

'N-no! Why would I be? He's the Prime and I'm a Gamma in case ya didn't notice.'

Prowl leaned back as Jazz shouted at him. Then he smirked when Jazz suddenly buried his face in a pillow. He WAS jealous. Like Ratchet who could spot a liar Prowl could easily tell when a mech was in denial. It was pretty much the same thing but Ratchet had to look at a mech's readings before he could prove anything and Prowl was built to know if a mech or femme was in denial. Jazz was pretty much on the top of the scale.

'You ARE jealous,' he said with a triumphant grin.

Jazz said nothing but tried to hide within his pillows which proved difficult. It was true. He was jealous that Optimus was probably sitting with him right now in a romantic garden sharing small but lovey dovey talk with one another. The very thought of it made Jazz's Spark twitch and jump in anger. Prowl just sat there wondering why he hadn't noticed it before. Optimus was indeed a looker and the Enforcer Captain had to admit even he dreamed about sharing a berth with Optimus. But that was vorns ago and now he saw Optimus as a good friend and nothing more. He was guessing that Jazz was merely going through a phase where he developed a crush on the Prime and that was all. He leaned forward and tried to get Jazz to look at him.

'Look I haven't met this young Omega Supirio yet but if I know Optimus he's trying to find a polite way to turn him down.'

That made Jazz look up at Prowl with a small glimmer of hope in his optics.

'Ya think?' he asked.

'Look...I can't say why but Optimus isn't really keen on having a relationship forced on him. He wants to find someone in his own time. Heck I don't even know why Alpha Trion would do that behind his back but even he has his reasons.'

Jazz sat up a little more when he notice a troubling look on Prowl's face. Was there something he didn't know? In fact back at the function he remembered Lord Prixus saying something about Optimus Prime's past experience that got him into a bit of trouble. Upon hearing that said to him Optimus was unable to answer back. In fact when it was announced that Alpha Trion had arrived he didn't even try to say anything to Jazz and left him there with the Sim Fur senators. Was he upset that something from his past was mentioned and that he wasn't keen to share it with Jazz? Or did he just want to get away from him? Prowl sighed and tried once again to change the topic.

'So what happened after the function?'

'Oh...well I chatted with the Sim Fur senators until the function ended and they wished to see me again. Mirage then caught up with me and escorted me back to my room. Optimus had already left with his creator and brother...and that pretty little Omega Superior.'

Prowl noticed that Jazz was looking glum at that last bit.

'Wait...are you upset that Optimus didn't come to say good night or something?'

That was true...after the function Optimus didn't even come over to say good night or anything. He just left with his family and that cute little mech. Prowl shrugged and tried to make sense of the situation.

'Look Optimus hasn't seen his creator for a very long time. He must of been so eagar to see him that he just kinda forgot about everything esle. Don't think that he hates you or something. He just wanted to see his creator that's all.'

In a way that did make a little sense. It was a little hard for him to understand since his family wasn't exactly something he missed. It was rather cruel to think about them like that but Jazz was very young when one of his creator's died and the other left him. However he and Optimus were raised in two different worlds so things to the both of them were viewed differently. He guessed what Prowl had said was true. To be apart from someone you knew and cared about for so long must of made him forget about everything else.

'Thanks for that Prowl...guess I was just acting like a depressed Sparkling back there.'

The Enforcer Captain shrugged.

'It's fine. You'll see...by tomorrow Optimus will come running back to you saying how sorry he was when he just left you there. I know him too well. He's probably regretting it right now.'

Now that he thought about Jazz could actually picture Optimus with a guilt ridden face after realizing he just left Jazz standing there all by himself. It made him snicker at the thought of it. Glad to see that Jazz was now looking a little happier Prowl decided to fill him in on his date with Bluestreak and Jazz didn't mind at all to listen how his night went with the chatty merchant.

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The next morning was bright as yesterday's and Prowl was taking Jazz to get some Energon in a small canteen. The Enforcer Captain was surprised to see that some of the Alpha's weren't giving Jazz evil looks like they always did. Jazz explained afterwards that at the function he learned that many Alpha's were impressed with his little joke at Lord Cortexion. That didn't surprise Prowl too much but he just shrugged it off and carried on walking. Jazz didn't want to bring it up right away but as the morning wore on he had to ask where Optimus was. Prowl sighed and explained that the Prime was having a private breakfast with Alpha Trion, Ultra Magnus and their guests...he didn't say anything about the young Gamma. Jazz sighed looking a little disappointed but hopefully Optimus would call for him later on. After grabbing their Energon and walking on to find a quiet place to sit they noticed a small crowd of Alpha's peering out the window. The two mechs could hear what they were saying.

'Don't they look so cute together?'

'If only he was an Alpha.'

'He's soooo cute! Optimus Prime is so lucky!'

'Never mind him...is that THE Kup? The previous General of Cybertron's armies and the previous Supreme Commander?'

'I heard that he decided to look after young mechs with potential...I guess that little cutie has something he's interested.'

'That means he's perfect for Optimus Prime right?'

Prowl and Jazz looked at each other before walking over to a window overlooking the same area the Alpha's were looking at. looking through it they saw that Optimus, Ultra Magnus, their Creator Alpha Trion and the two guests were sitting within a small but beautiful garden having fine quality Energon served. Jazz's Spark flinched again when he saw that Optimus was sitting right next to the young Omega Superior whilst talking to Alpha Trion. Ultra Magnus was busy talking to the older mech, known as Kup, and the little cutie, known as Hot Rod, just sat there remaining silent.

At first Jazz felt nothing but deep jealous hatred for the young mech but as they watched he noticed that this Hot Rod was...bored. He just sat there fiddling with his empty glass of Energon and every time he did Kup would lean over and knock him on his helm causing the young mech to sit up straight and try to look interested. However once Kup had took his optics off him and started talking to Ultra Magnus again the young mech would start all over again. He even let out a deep sigh that went unnoticed. Didn't he want to be there or something? However when Optimus at last said something to him he looked up at him and blushed brightly but was unable to say anything. Prowl looked at the young mech too and noticed something as well.

'He's...a little young for Optimus...in fact he's way too young for Optimus.'

Jazz looked at Prowl confused.

'Too young? But then why would his Creator try to set him up with him if he's too young?'

Prowl pondered for a moment as he tried to figure this one out.

'Well...Alpha Trion was in Kalis for a while and he does have powerful friends over there. I could only guess that he must of made some sort of deal with one of them.'

'A deal?'

'Omega Superior's with power are like that. They only want more power and if they have a friend with equal power they would try to get their hands on it to make them look even more powerful. I'm guessing that Alpha Trion met a friend who offered his son as a potential mate for his own son for something in return.'

Jazz looked back at the group of higher ups horrified at this sudden fact. They did that sort of thing without even thinking of their Sparkling's feelings? Someone went up to Alpha Trion and said I'll give you my son to bond with your son in exchange for something! That sounded just as bad as what the Alpha's did. Prowl had however more to say.

'Alpha Trion isn't the kind of mech who seeks to gain more power. He's the kind of mech who just wants whats best for his sons. I have heard rumours that he has been looking for the perfect mate for both of them. I guess he's been doing that since Optimus isn't looking for a mate at the moment and Ultra Magnus...let's just say I'd be surprised if he ever got a mate. Still...I wonder why he decided to bring someone this young?'

As they continued to watch they saw another mech enter the garden. He too was an Omega Superior and he acted very ecstatic as he took a seat next to Alpha Trion and started to talk away with a big cheesy grin on his face. As he chatted away Hot Rod suddenly folded his arms and looked a little angry. Kup just sighed and said something to Ultra Magnus who nodded in agreement with whatever he said. Optimus just sat there and listened as this new mech and his creator talked away. Who was that? Prowl had a good guess who it was.

'I'm guessing that's the mech Alpha Trion made the deal with...the little one's Creator.'

That made some sense. He looked way too happy whilst everyone else looked a little uneasy being around him. Before the pair of them could even think about walking off a young femme suddenly appeared and she seemed to be in a rush. When she spotted Prowl she ran up to him to deliver a message.

'Oh Prowl there you are! Have you seen the...oh he's here with you good. Optimus wants him to attend the little breakfast talk out there. Apparently the Senator of Kalis wishes to meet with him.'

As Prowl accepted the message Jazz suddenly felt some more of his nerves kick in. Attend breakfast with them? If it was just Optimus then yeah that would be fine but he was also going to be in the presence of Ultra Magnus, a younger and prettier mech who was possibly Optimus's future mate, Optimus's Creator, a well respected old mech and another Senator. He wasn't even sure if he could handle all that, even though he did attend a function that was filled with higher ups. Once Prowl was finished with the femme he looked back to Jazz.

'OK Jazz looks like you're going to see Optimus a little sooner than I expected. Just play it cool, remember how to act around a senator and don't say anything unless they speak to you. Moonracer here will take you there so try to relax.'

Before Jazz could even say anything the femme grabbed Jazz's hand and dragged him off. For a short young femme she had quite a grip and didn't let go of Jazz until they reached the entrance of the garden that was of course guarded. As the femme told them who they were and why they were there they allowed them access without question. However the femme wasn't going in. Instead she looked up at Jazz and gave him some quick and simple instructions.

'Don't look at him, talk to him and even think of him! Keep your optics to yourself, don't say anything and please try to smile!'

Before he could even ask which mech she was talking about she pushed Jazz into the garden. Before Jazz could even try and say anything to her she was gone. All he could hear was the loud chatter coming from the other side of the garden. Knowing that he couldn't go back now he took a deep breath and slowly walked towards the loud chatter. The closer he got the louder the annoying voice became. Peering over a small statue he finally spotted the group sitting at an elegant ivory table. Ultra Magnus was engaged in a conversation with Kup. Hot Rod was just sitting there looking both bored and annoyed. Optimus looked like he was trying to listen to what the Kalis senator was saying as was Alpha Trion. It wasn't exactly a happy family portrait but Jazz had seen worse.

Stepping forward slightly his black and white frame caught the attention of Optimus, who seemed all to eager to change the subject with the Kalis senator. Clearing his throat loudly so that everyone would stop talking he announced the arrival of his guest.

'Senator Xion I would like you to meet my guest and dear friend Jazz.'

Optimus waved his hand over to where Jazz was standing and everyone turned to look at him. Jazz was a little surprised to find that he wasn't as nervous as he was expecting himself to be. Instead he found himself calmly walking over towards them as they stared at him. Alpha Trion seemed to be studying him with his ancient optics. Kup looked at him and he appeared puzzled for some reason. Ultra Magnus gave him a cold look like he always did. The senator looked at Jazz and looked as if he was trying to look interested in him. The young Hot Rod looked at him with optics filled with curiosity. Jazz just did his best not to look silly as he walked towards them. Optimus offered him a seat which, to Jazz's disappointment, was right between the young Hot Rod and his creator. Jazz didn't argue as he sat down and said nothing as the senator looked at him some more.

'I have to say he wasn't what I was expecting to be. However the plain name he has sounds very Gamma-like. He isn't too bad looking I suppose...but I have seen better looking mechs comapred to him...no offense little Gamma.'

Now Jazz was trying his best to frown, as was Optimus. This senator was pretty much insulting him right there but nobody was saying anything. Not even Optimus. However Kup had something different to say.

'I've seen many Gamma's in my time Senator Xion and many of them weren't that plain looking. In fact they're a very unique class.'

Senator Xion suddenly shot Kup a nasty glare.

'Why doesn't that surprise me Kup. You prefer spending time with lower class mechs than your own kind. You're a disgrace to your own class!'

Kup just shrugged and downed his Energon. Alpha Trion then cut in hoping to calm the Kalis Senator's sudden anger.

'Now, now Xion everyone has their own opinion. I believe that we could learn something from the Gamma's if they are accepted into our society.'

'Alpha Trion I respect you greatly but "learn" something from them? What do they have to teach us? How to con someone out of their credits? Hah! So little Gamma what do you do for a living?'

Jazz was wondering why Optimus wasn't defending him like he always did. He quickly glanced at him to see that he was just observing them calmly from where he sat. Why wasn't he doing anything? Looking back at the senator he gave him an honest answer.

'I work in an Energon Bar sir.'

'Really...thought you were a pleasurebot or something.'

Jazz could of sworn he heard something snap and glancing over at Optimus he noticed that he was clutching his hands together very tightly and his left optic brow was twitching every now again. But still he said nothing. Kup muttered something under his breath whilst Ultra Magnus did not react at all as usual. Xion just laughed at what he thought was a good joke and then turned his attention back to Alpha Trion.

'So Alpha Trion...doesn't my little one look absolutely perfect for your Optimus there. He might act like a shy little femme but he's quite the loud one. He also has a quality Spark chamber that can safely carry a developing Sparkling...'

The young Gamma sighed quietly. It seemed like he was only interested in getting his young and pretty off-spring to bond with Optimus. As he went on and on about Hot Rod's good qualities Jazz began to think about it a little more. Maybe Optimus bonding with the young mech was a good idea. He was a political figure and if he were to take even the slightest bit of interest in him then the media would plaster it all over their news broadcast making Optimus look bad. However if he was with a young and pretty Omega Supirior then the media would make it look the bonding of the stellar cycle. Compared to him...Jazz was nothing more than a worthless street bum.

As Xion boasted away about how great Hot Rod was, the young Omega Supirior suddenly stood up.

'I-I have to take a breather for a nano-click. I'll be right back.'

Xion just looked at him for a moment before waving his hand in a fashion as if to say go ahead. Hot Rod then turned and walked in a very fast manner towards an area in the garden that no one could see. Was he just getting excited about the whole thing or was it his nerves? They all watched him go and many them seemed concerned...except for Xion.

'He's just nervous. You know what young mechs are like today.'

Optimus watched as Hot Rod disappeared into the garden and Jazz noticed he did indeed look worried about the young mech. It made his Spark ache and he clutched his chassis in the hopes to calm it down. Did Optimus care about him in that way? Was he interested in becoming Hot Rod's Bondmate? As Jazz tried not to think about it Kup suddenly spoke up.

'He's been acting funny ever since we got here. I should go check on him.'

Xion however halted him from doing so.

'No Kup he'll be fine. He just needs a breather so let him be.'

Kup looked like he was about to growl but no sound came out.

'Senator Xion...Hot Rod may appear tough to you but he is quite fragile. You wouldn't know of course since you barely see him.'

Xion suddenly growled loudly for everyone to hear. It was quite clear now that he and Kup didn't get along very well. Optimus sat up slightly and Xion suddenly noticed the not-very-impressed look on Optimus Prime's face. However this Senator was a smart one and he suddenly looked over at Jazz.

'W-well Optimus Prime...since you trust this Gamma so much why not have him check up on my little one.'

That surprised everyone at the table...even Jazz.

'You wouldn't mind?' asked Optimus.

'Well Optimus Prime if you trust him so much why shouldn't I? Plus it would prove to me that Gamma's can preform a simple task meaning I have something to report to the other senator's of Kalis meaning that we'll quickly give you our support, everyone's happy and we all get what we want.'

It wasn't a simple task at all...it was far too easy! Was this mech trying to further insult Jazz or did he just want to get rid of him now that he met him? That last part made Alpha Trion frown though. He clearly wasn't happy with what Xion was saying. Optimus just sighed and looked at Jazz.

'Do you mind?' he asked.

Jazz looked back and at first he wasn't sure what to say. It was clear now what that deal was that Prowl was talking about. If Optimus becomes Hot Rod's Bondmate than he'd quickly get the support of the Kalis city. Also this senator Xion would suddenly become very popular when everyone found out that his child is Bonded with the Prime. There wasn't any real love involved. It was all just business. Did that mean Optimus was prepared to Bond with another mech just so Jazz and the rest of the Gamma's could live a happy life? Was he willing to go that far for this cause? Or was there more to it? Still if he could prove to a senator that he can carry out a simple task then sure...why not? Trying to smile as best he could he stood up.

'Sure I don't mind.'

He quickly turned and left to find the young mech. He didn't even look back as Xion continued to chatter away about what a perfect Bondmate his child would make. He felt different for some reason. Had Optimus just summoned him here to show him his future Bondmate? No...he may not of known Optimus for long but he knew he wasn't like that. But why was Optimus not defending him when the senator spoke about him in such a way? Also did he really like the young mech?

Jazz tried to force these thoughts out of his CPU as he looked for the young mech. The garden wasn't that big and he soon found him sitting on a bench with his face buried in his hands. He wasn't crying but he did appear to look miserable. Maybe he too did not want to Bond with Optimus but as Jazz recalled he was blushing every time Optimus turned to face him he would blush like a lovestruck mech who was in the presence of his crush. As Jazz walked towards him the young mech looked up and seemed surprise to see Jazz there.

'Oh...Jazz was it? Did they send you to check on me?'

The young Gamma stopped in front of him and nodded. He didn't speak just in case he said something that might upset the young mech. Plus the femme did say something about not talking to someone...he just didn't know who she meant. Hot Rod smirked and sat up.

'Don't worry I don't bite. You can talk to me...I don't mind.'

The youth then patted the empty space on the bench inviting him to sit down with him. Jazz had only been asked to see if he was OK but he guessed it wouldn't hurt to share a small conversation with him. Honestly he still didn't like him too well for an unknown reason. Sitting down next to him the youth looked at Jazz and smiled.

'You know you weren't what I was expecting to look like. When Kup told me I was going to meet a Gamma I thought of all the stories the instructors at the academy told us about you. That you were evil robbers and crooks. But when I saw you I realized that they were just a bunch of liars. You're actually really pretty.'

That was one of the nicest compliments that Jazz had ever recieved ever since he came up here. The young mech didn't appear to be lying and he just looked at Jazz with a sweet smile on his face.

'So...how did you meet Optimus Prime?' he asked.

Jazz looked up the youth to see that he looked very interested in the topic he had just brought up. Did he really want to know how he and Optimus met? Or was he just interested in hearing stories about Optimus? Even so the young Gamma thought it wouldn't hurt to tell him since it wasn't really such a big secret anymore.

'I...I met him down in the slums. He was looking for someone and I offered to help.'

Hot Rod tilted his head.

'Who was he looking for?'

'A friend...he wandered down there and Optimus got worried...so he went to look for him. To be honest I had no idea he was the Prime when I first met him...I just thought he was a tall Alpha.'

The young mech snickered at the little comment.

'Well don't tell him but that's what my creator thinks too. He says that Optimus Prime doesn't even look like a Prime! He looks like a plain old Alpha.'

That made Jazz laugh softly for some reason. Maybe it was because he thought it was ironic that both a Gamma and an Omega Superior both thought that Optimus looked more like an Alpha than an Omega Superior. If Optimus found out he'd probably make a small attempt to make himself look more the part. The small joke had made Jazz relax as he sat next to the youth. Also the young mech didn't look so sad anymore.

'I'm really sorry for what my creator said about you...well he isn't really my real creator. He adopted me when I was little just to make himself look good. I barely see him...all he cares about his fame and work...to him...I'm just a tool.'

He suddenly looked sad again. Clearly he wasn't happy about his planned out life. Maybe he didn't really love Optimus either. He was just being forced into it to make his adoptive parent look good. That made Jazz feel a little better for some reason. Hot Rod then let out a deep sigh and looked towards the sky. What he said next surprised Jazz.

'It must be nice to be trusted by someone from another rank.'

The youth's expression changed to a more saddened one. Jazz could only guess that something was bothering him and he didn't know how to deal with it. Did it have something to do with Optimus? Or maybe his own creator? Whatever the reason it must of been troubling him greatly. Kup had said that ever since he arrived here he had been acting funny. Was it nerves? Or something else that Jazz couldn't even begin to understand? After a moment or so Hot Rod suddenly looked up at Jazz.

'Can I ask you a question?'

A question? What would an Omega Supirior want to ask a Gamma? The youth looked at him with pleading optics and Jazz couldn't find it in his Spark to say no. He didn't mind so he nodded and did his best to smile to show he was going to be supportive. The youth suddenly looked a little nervous and he began to fiddle with his digits as he tried to talk.

'W-well...since Optimus Prime trusts you I-I was wondering if I could...w-well get some advice...you see...I...I really want to tell him something...but every time I look at him...or if he looks at me...I...I can't talk...'

The young mech started to blush.

'My Spark begins to pulse at a high level...and...my body starts to heat up and...and I can't speak at all...but there is something I really want to tell him...but...oh Primus...I just don't know what to do! W-what I'm trying to say is...what should I do? I really want to talk to him but I...I'm just so scared at what he might think.'

Jazz felt his Spark ache in his chest as Hot Rod spoke about Optimus using that tone of voice. His cheeks were flushing slightly and he had a distant look in his optics. Could it be that he wanted to tell him...that he loved him?

'W-what did you want to tell him?' asked Jazz.

What the youth said next made the ache in Jazz's Spark grow.

'I-I want to tell him...how I feel...'

It all finally made sense. Hot Rod was in love with Optimus but he was unable to tell him how he felt out of fear of what Optimus may think. Jazz sat there feeling strange emotions boiling up within him. Why did he feel so upset about this? It was all fair after all. Optimus was an Omega Superior and Hot Rod was an Omega Superior...and he was just a Gamma. It was the perfect match. They were perfect for each other and all of Cybertron would rejoice for the Bonded pair. They wouldn't rejoice if Optimus decided to Bond with someone from a lower class.

Looking back at Hot Rod he could see that he was troubled by the fact that he couldn't even express his feelings to his future Bondmate. He must really care for Optimus if this was really troubling him. Heck he was even asking a Gamma for help. He knew he wasn't that good at offering advice but if he could give Optimus a happy life with his new Bondmate than he was going to try.

'I'm not sure if I could help...but I think it's only fair that ya tell him how you feel.'

Hot Rod looked up a little surprise as Jazz continued.

'I've never been in a relationship but...if I found the mech I wanna spend the rest of my life with I'd be completely honest with him. I'd tell him how I feel about him...what my fears are...heck I'd even tell him my dreams. If you're going to be with Optimus I think it's only fair that ya tell him how you feel before you get Bonded. He's a good and kind mech who saved my aft more times than you can count. Even though I was just a Gamma who wouldn't trust a higher up he trusted me completely without even thinking about it. If it weren't for him I...I don't know where I'd be. You have to tell him how you feel about him. It's the right thing to do for if he doesn't know how ya feel about him...then...you're gonna regret it forever.'

After saying all that Jazz felt his Spark ache again and he winced slightly. It was strange. He had given that advice to the youth...but at the same time it felt like he was giving it to himself. Taking in all the advice Jazz had just given him Hot Rod sat up and began to think about it all. Did Jazz's advice help? The young Gamma watched as the youth took in a few short sharp breaths of air. After a while or so Hot Rod then looked up again and smiled.

'Thanks for that Jazz...I...I think I can do it now...I can see now why Optimus trusts you so much...you are a very nice mech...could I just have a moment alone for a nano-click please? Please tell them I won't be long.'

Jazz decided to respect his wishes and got up to leave. As he headed back towards place where the others were waiting he looked back to see that the youth was in deep thought. Was he trying to muster up the courage to speak with Optimus? The ache in his Spark began to act up again. Would he really confess his feelings to Optimus? If he did that would be great for everyone but for some reason Jazz...didn't feel at all happy.

Returning to the table he found all the higher ups doing what they were doing before he left. When they noticed Jazz they all looked up. Senator Xion looked dissapointed that Hot Rod wasn't with him. Optimus however noticed the troubled look on Jazz's face.

'Is something the matter Jazz? Is something wrong with Hot Rod?'

Jazz winced when the pain came back the moment Optimus asked about Hot Rod. Did Optimus really care for the young mech? Was Jazz just in the way? He didn't want him to see him like this. Forcing a small smile on his face he answered back.

'Oh he's fine...he's just nervous that's all...um...he will come back but...'

Before Jazz could finish he detected that someone was approaching him from behind. Looking over his shoulder he saw that Hot Rod had decided to return sooner than expected. He still looked nervous but Jazz could see a hint of determination in his optics. Taking small but fast steps over to Optimus he did his best to try and talk to him.

'Um...O-Optimus Prime s-sir? Can..can w-we talk? In...um...private...please?'

For a moment there was silence. Jazz just felt his Spark ache even more. Even though he was the one who gave Hot Rod the advice he was now starting to wish he hadn't. Optimus looked surprised as the youth stood before him trembling like crazy. He must of had something important to say. Before Optimus could even say anything Xion suddenly stood up with an excited expression on his face.

'Oh isn't this sweet! The love-birds want to have a private moment together! Why don't we respect their wishes and give them some time alone?'

Hot Rod suddenly blushed at the sudden comment his creator made whilst Optimus didn't look at all impressed. It was plain to see that Xion just wanted to promote the so called love between his child and Optimus Prime. However everyone decided to do just that and they all got up to leave. Jazz knew he had to leave too and as he walked towards the garden's exit he looked back to see that Hot Rod had taken a seat next to Optimus. he had done the right thing. He had given the youth the advice he needed to tell Optimus how he felt. Optimus would be happier with a younger and prettier mech that was the same class as he was. All of Cybertron would be happy for them. So...why was it that Jazz felt like...crying? Trying to keep himself together he carried on walking towards the garden's exit where Prowl was waiting for him.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Optimus felt a little uncomfortable being alone with a mech who was a good one million stellar cycles younger than him. Once everyone had gone Hot Rod had taken a seat next to him. He was still blushing like mad and Optimus could hear his Spark pulsing within his chassis. Then again he was glad that Senator Xion was gone. He truly wanted to punch him for all the terrible things he said about Jazz right there in front of him. However he couldn't and for two very good reasons. The first reason was that he was Alpha Trion's friend and he didn't want to insult his creator by lashing out at him like that. the second was that he was from Kalis. Iacon and Kalis had very unstable relationship. Before his death Sentinel Prime had been trying to stabilize it but was unable to do so. It was the second thing to do on his to do list once he had finished changing the laws that concern the rank and classes of Cybertron.

However when his creator had returned with a Senator and his adopted child from Kalis he thought at first that Alpha Trion had been able to set things straight with the city of Kalis. However Alpha Trion later reveled to him that Hot Rod was a mech that he handpicked himself to be Optimus's future mate. When he was Bonded with him the unstable relationship between Kalis and Iacon would return to normal and Optimus himself would have the perfect mate to spend the rest of his life with. Optimus however...wasn't very happy about it. He still remembered the argument he had with Alpha Trion and his brother last night.

Alpha Trion sat calmly at his desk as Optimus paced the room in an attempt to calm his anger. Ultra Magnus just stood nearby and didn't say anything as his brother began to shout at his own creator.

'Is this some kind of joke! How could you do this to me behind my back! Also that mech is far too young! He has to be at least 10 million stellar cycles old. What were you thinking?'

The ancient mech sighed and tried to explain.

'My dear Optimus...ever since the incident you never get close to anyone. You act like you can but you cannot fool me. I still see the fear in your optics every time you get close to anyone. The fear of being hurt...betrayed...and worse. Now I have had the chance to spend some time with the young mech and he is quite charming and in my personal belief is the perfect one for you. I was only thinking about your welfare...nothing more.'

Optimus said nothing but began to grumble loudly. Ultra Magnus sighed and folded his arms.

'He does have a point Optimus...every Prime has to have a mate and you're not even looking.'

'You're one to talk brother, all you care about is your work.'

Alpha Trion sighed as he watched his two sons argue.

'Optimus please. I did this for a few very good reasons. The first reason is that you need a mate. The second is that he is the adopted child of a Kalis Senator. By Bonding with him you will make our relationship with their city a better one. Also I have heard about what you are doing about changing the laws that involve rank and class. It is a very honorable thing but not many cities will agree with you. If you Bond with him you will have the support of Kalis making your job easier. Don't you want the Gamma's to have an easier life?'

As Alpha Trion finished images of Jazz suddenly popped into Optimus's CPU. Alpha Trion did have a point. Kaon was a softer city compared to the others. If by doing this he could automaticly get Kalis's support then wasn't it worth it? Spend the rest of his life with a mech he barely knew just to see Jazz and the rest of his class happy? Then there was the other issue. It was true. Optimus didn't even bother thinking about finding a mate. The thought never crossed him once. Maybe it was a good idea. Maybe he did have to Bond with this mech to get over it.

The Prime let out a sigh of defeat and slumped into a chair. Alpha Trion rose from where he stood, walking over to where Optimus sat and placing a hand on his shoulder.

'I just want to see you happy Optimus...that is my only wish.'

Optimus sighed as he looked down at the youth. He had something to say but he just couldn't get it out. He was also wondering what Jazz had said to him whilst they were talking together. He didn't think Hot Rod was the type to speak to a Gamma since most Omega Superior's didn't really like them. Time ticked on until at long last Hot Rod looked up with his cute bright red face.

'Um...Optimus...I'm sorry for...for making you wait for me...it's just that I'm not really good at this.'

That was clear to see. Optimus sighed at the youth continued to stammer and stuttered with his words. He must be trying to tell him how he really felt about him. So he gave him a small pat on the helm in an attempt to calm him down.

'It's OK really. I understand if you find it difficult to speak right now...you don't have to tell me right now.'

'B-but I have to tell you right now!' cried the youth looking up suddenly.

The Prime began to wonder what on Cybertron the youth had to say that was so important. Giving him some more time to build up some courage Hot Rod was finally able to say what was on his mind.

'Optimus...after hearing all the stories about you from Kup and to see what you are trying to do to make Cybertron a better place for everyone makes me really glad that I had the chance to meet you. You are a very kind and loving Prime and I'm glad that the matrix chose someone like you. I think you are nice, handsome and a true icon for everyone on Cybertron and I do feel honored that you agreed to Bond with me...but...'

But? Then to Optimus's surprise Hot Rod suddenly stood up and bowed in a polite way as if to say he was sorry for something. But that wasn't what really surprised Optimus...it was what he said next.

'I...I...I do not wish to Bond with you!'

For a moment the garden was filled with silence as Hot Rod remained in that position. Optimus blinked out of surprise. The youth did not wish to Bond with him? That was what he was trying to say? Hot Rod suddenly looked up with watering optics when he realized that the silence was started to drag on.

'I-I'm sorry! I wanted to tell you earlier but I was afraid at what you might say. I thought you might get offended. It's just that when I think about being with you like that it feel's really weird for me. I mean I respect you and all but...I'm really, really sorry!'

As the youth tried his best to not cry Optimus suddenly smiled softly. So that was it. He respected Optimus but he did not love him in a way that lovers loved. He did not wish to be with him like that and had tried to find a way to tell him. However he didn't want to hurt his feelings and quite possibly he was afraid at what his creator might think. As he sat there trembling Optimus placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled.

'It's OK...you don't have to be scared anymore. I'm am not offended by what you have said...in fact I am proud of you. It takes a lot of courage to be able to tell someone like me how you truly felt.'

Hot Rod glanced up slightly and blushed a little.

'S-so...you're not mad?'

Optimus shook his head in response and that made the young mech sit up straight with a more happier expression on his face.

'Oh thank Primus...I was so worried how you would react that I thought I would never be able to tell you how I felt. Then that Gamma, Jazz, came over and he gave me some really helpful advice and I was able to-...'

Optimus halted him there.

'Advice Jazz gave you?'

'Y-yeah...I told him that there was something I really wanted to tell you but I couldn't say it. He told that if I was going to be with I had to be honest since it wouldn't be fair on both on us. He also told me that you were a kind and caring mech who didn't care what rank or class they were and that you would still trust them and that he trusted you. He's...a really good friend.'

Hot Rod smiled as he spoke about Jazz and as he went on and on Optimus felt rather happy. It didn't seem that he was happy about Hot Rod, being an Omega Superior and all, liking Jazz...it was more like...he was happy that Jazz had told Hot Rod how he himself felt about Optimus. Ultra Magnus had been telling him nearly every day that Jazz only cared about the food and shelter he was offering him and that the whole sweet talk thing was just Jazz pretending that he liked Optimus. he had told him so much that Optimus almost believed it. But to hear Hot Rod say that Jazz had told him he was a kind and caring mech that he trusted...made him really happy.

The youth then looked up at Optimus and blushed again.

'I know I don't deserve to ask you of this Optimus Prime...but...can you come with me to tell my creator...please?'

Optimus smiled again and stood up.

'Of course...we'll tell him together...it's the least I can do.'

Hot Rod smiled again and followed Optimus to where everyone was waiting. Even though he was happy to learn how Jazz felt about him Optimus was a little concerned with how the senator would react when he discovered that there wasn't going to be a Bonding ceremony.