Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

“This isn’t going to work, you know”.

Sunstreaker said from the wash racks as he towel-dried his frame. Sideswipe raised an eyebrow at him from where he lounged on the berth.

“What Sunny, do you mean by 'this'? It's a really broad term."

“I mean,” Sunstreaker said, waving his hand between them, “This thing we have between us. It's not going to work."

“Okay,” Sideswipe stated, looking more alert, “Why do you think that Sunstreaker?”

“Well for starters, we're keeping this relationship a secret” Sunstreaker began as he placed his towel in the hamper.

“Only because others would shun us” Sideswipe interrupted, getting off the berth. Sunstreaker glared and continued.

“You're a berth hopper that always has someone new”.

“And you’re a famous artist that only has serious relationships with others in your circle” Sideswipe countered, walking over to the washracks.

“Finally, is that we have nothing in common” Sunstreaker finished, leaning against the wash rack door.

“That’s not true” Sideswipe countered, standing in front of Sunstreaker.

“Oh really! What do we have in common?” Sunstreaker asked, not convinced.

“Other than we are twins”, Sideswipe ticked off his points on his fingers, “We’re both tall, we both love watching gladiator fights, we both like to drink high grade. And we both hate the colour pink”.

Sunstreaker scoffed.

“Be serious Sideswipe”.

“Sunny. I know that you really do hate pink, right?"

“Grow up,” Sunstreaker said, not amused.

“But I am grown up,” Sideswipe smirked, “Because the things we do are not suitable for younglings”.

Sunstreaker smacked him on the back of the helm as he walked past.

“I don’t want you to stay” Sunstreaker announced as he straightened out the berth covers.

“What! I was joking about the pink thing. I don't mind if you love pink. I’ll buy you pink art supplies” Sideswipe said, walking over.

“Leave” Sunstreaker ordered, stepping away to keep some distance between them.

“I promise. I’ll even throw you a pink-themed party. With pink decorations and pink high grade. I’ll even make the guests wear pink”.

“I said leave” Sunstreaker repeated.

“Nope, I’m staying. I need to plan this pink party for you” Sideswipe said. Sunstreaker threw a pillow at him, but Sideswipe caught it.

“Can’t you be serious for once?” Sunstreaker asked, “I told you to leave”.

“I can be when I want to be. But why should I be? I am here to make your life exciting”.

Sunstreaker scoffed “My life is exciting. I don't know how I ever managed without you”.

“Thank you, Sunny,” Sideswipe said with a bow and cheeky smile. Sunstreaker just sighed and rubbed his helm.

“I’m tired Sides. I’m not in the mood for any of this tonight. Can you please leave?” Sunstreaker asked, leaning against the wall.

“And then what? Will I see you next cycle?”.

“No. You'll listen to me for once, and you won't come back. Not tomorrow, not ever."

“Wait hold on. Are you breaking up with me?” Sideswipe asked.

“No. I just think it’s for the best that we go our separate ways for the time being”.

Sideswipe was stunned, he didn’t know what to do as a wave of hurt started to form in his spark.

“Fine. If that’s what you want. I’ll go” Sideswipe said, turning on his heel and quickly walking out the door. Sunstreaker pretended he didn’t hear the laboring of Sideswipe’s systems that matched his own. It was better this way, Sunstreaker reminded himself, but it didn’t make it any easier.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

“How slagging incompetent are you?” The blue mech screamed at the petite femme behind the counter, “You can’t tell me that I'm trapped in this disgusting pit of a station for the next two cycles! My guaranteed shuttle was supposed to depart on time”.

The petite femme maintained her composure as she addressed the blue mech.

“I do apologize for the inconvenience, but you must understand that we cannot guarantee the timeliness of a flight”.

“I demand to speak to someone in charge”, the blue mech screamed, “Now”.

“That’s enough”, came a voice behind the blue mech, “Stop making a scene”.

The blue mech turned around to see a red, black, and white mech of equal height looking right at him. The blue mech sneered.

“Do you know who I am?”

“Nope. But do you know who I am” the red, black, and white mech countered.

“I’m Sideswipe, and in case you haven’t noticed there are a few passengers in the same situation as yourself. Screaming at this lovely femme is not going to accomplish anything. All you are doing is delaying us all”.

Sideswipe paused to gesture to the group surrounding them.

“Who here is currently stranded due to the non-arrival of the shuttle to Crystal City?” 

Most of the crowd indicated their position by rising one of their hands.

“As you can see mech”.

“Tracks”.

“As you can see Tracks. There are many of us under the same circumstances" Sideswipe said. Then he moved to the counter and looked down at the petite femme.

“Excuse me” Sideswipe address her sincerely.

“I know you are aware of our issue. And I’m sure you don’t have any answers at the moment. So, if I take all of these stranded passengers over to the café over there. I will purchase them drinks while you can find some information for us about our flight”.

“Thank you. Please do” the petite femme said gratefully, “Once I do find anything I will let you know”.

“Thank you. Mauve” Sideswipe said, reading the petite femme’s name on the desk.

“Alright everybot. For those who are stranded for the flight to Crystal City. Follow me, I will happily purchase a drink or snack from the café for each of you. Including you, Tracks," Sideswipe said with a mild sneer.

The small group of passengers mumbled but complied with Sideswipe’s offer.

“Thank you,” Mauve said again as Sideswipe led the group to the café.

“That was rather kind of you”.

Sideswipe looked to his left to see a handsome golden mech, waiting for him.

“The company should be offering that, not you” the golden mech continued.

“That would be true, but I think it gives everybot a little bit of time to cool their circuits,” Sideswipe said.

“Hey” shouted Tracks, “Get over here so we can have our drinks”.

“Duty calls,” Sideswipe said, as he quickly walked over to the café with the handsome golden mech following him.

Once inside the café, Sideswipe walked up to the counter where Tracks already was.

“This mech is paying,” Tracks said, pointing at Sideswipe.

“Yes, I am,” Sideswipe said, holding out a credit chip to the femme behind the counter, “I’m paying for this group of passengers”.

“Any limit?” asked the femme behind the counter with a look of confusion.

“None” Sideswipe replied.

“Yes, there is. Charge only half. Then use this” the handsome golden mech held out his own credit chip.

“Hey. I can pay” Sideswipe said.

“I know but you shouldn’t have to pay all of it. Besides aren’t you a business mech”.

“How would you know that?” Sideswipe asked, subtlety checking over himself as the handsome golden mech looked at him from ped to helm.

“I have an optic for such things. Besides I'd offer to cover the lot, but somehow, I think you would turn me down” The handsome golden mech smirked at him.

“I might” Sideswipe flirted, “But maybe I might let you pay for your own drink instead”.

The handsome golden mech laughed. They were interrupted by the femme behind the counter telling Sideswipe the price. Sideswipe paid for all the drinks or snacks. Then ordered his own drink, then waited at the other end of the counter.

Once Sideswipe had his cube of sweet energon in his hand, he looked around the café for somewhere to sit. Sadly, the only spot available was where Tracks was sitting.

“Join me” suggested the handsome golden mech, sitting at a table away from the crowd in a corner.

“Or you can sit with the loud-mouthed Tracks if you prefer”.

Sideswipe couldn't fight his grin as he joined the handsome golden mech at the small round table.

“Do you draw?” Sideswipe asked, noticing the drawing datapad on the table surface.

“I do. I’m the famous artist Sunstreaker”.

“I know,” Sideswipe said before gently sipping his drink, "I recognized you in line if I'm honest," he said with a grin.

“You recognized me from my art pieces”.

“Nope your matches in Kaon,” Sideswipe said, “I grew up there and I saw some of your matches”.

“So, you’re from Kaon then. I should have known. Your armour is a little too dense for a civilian” Sunstreaker said, looking a little guarded.

“So is yours, I might add. You have nothing to worry I wasn’t a die-hard fan. I only watched the matches when they were broadcasted not live” Sideswipe explained, knowing the touchy subject of Kaon was a horrible topic to talk about.

“Then you had some sense. I’ve left that life behind me,” Sunstreaker said, “Even if it paid for my start at this life I have now”.

“We are not our pasts” Sideswipe started to say. Then Mauve approached the pair.

“Sorry for interrupting. I have some news about your flight”.

“Good news or bad news”

“Well, I’ll start with the bad the shuttle has been delayed and won’t be ready until the next cycle. The good is that the company has arranged to offer each of the passengers a hotel room for the night cycle. As well as a discount for the next flight”.

“That is something at least,” Sunstreaker said.

“That is good news. Go tell the others Mauve” Sideswipe said as Mauve obeyed. Sideswipe turned to Sunstreaker.

“It was nice meeting you. Sunstreaker”.

Then Sideswipe left the table to arrange his hotel room for the night cycle, knowing that he possibly would not see the handsome golden mech again.

Chapter Text

“Sunny… Sunshine”

Sunstreaker made a humming noise and rolled onto his side, allowing Sideswipe to slide down from his bunk into Sunstreaker’s berth. The barracks were silent as the mechs in their unit, recharged but Sideswipe was too full of energy. However, Sunstreaker was not and not happy when a loud clang echoed through the room.

“Are you awake Sunshine”.

“I’m now, Aft” mumbled Sunstreaker turning to face his twin with a murderous glare.

“If you damaged my armour. I’ll shove you into the waste tank”.

“Would you believe me if I said that was an accident?" Sideswipe pleaded.

“No” snapped Sunstreaker, only to be hushed by one of the room occupants. Sunstreaker shifted his gaze from his twin to glare at the other mech. Then shut his optics and resumed his recharge cycle.

“Sunny”

"What?" snapped Sunstreaker, with his optics still closed.

"Are you awake?" Sideswipe asked.

“Sideswipe” hissed Sunstreaker, opening his optics to glare at his twin.

“What?”

"…What do you want?" Sunstreaker asked.

"I can't recharge," Sideswipe said.

"So, you woke me up?" Sunstreaker stated, not amused with his twin.

"Accidentally. I accidentally woke you up" Sideswipe said.

"Right. Why don't I believe a word that comes out of your mouth?" Sunstreaker deadpanned.

“I really have no idea. You should trust your twin you know. I would never kick you or hurt you” Sideswipe said, only for Sunstreaker to scoff. 

“I'm going to hurt you if you don't shut up" Sunstreaker hissed. Sideswipe looked hurt but Sunstreaker didn’t care as he closed his optics again.

“No. Don’t close your optics”.

“Sideswipe. For Primus’s sake. Go back to recharge” Sunstreaker ordered.

“I thought we already established that I can't!"

“Then what do you expect me to do about it” Sunstreaker asked.

“Well, I have some ideas” Sideswipe suggested as he gently ran his hands over Sunstreaker’s abdomen.

“Sideswipe. If you don’t remove your hands from my array. Little Sideswipe is going to be kneed”.

“Hey. My equipment is not little” Sideswipe protested, only to be hushed by one of the room occupants. Sunstreaker smirked and closed his optics again. Only to open them as Sideswipe resumed touching Sunstreaker’s closed array.

“Sideswipe. For Primus’s sake. I have patrol in three Joors. I have to recharge”.

"But-" Sideswipe began.

"No buts. Do the job yourself" Sunstreaker rolled onto his other side, away from his twin.

"Now why would I do that when I have my handsome twin, right next to me.”

"Your hand is closer" Sunstreaker pointed out.

"My hand is colder."

“Then stick your hands in your chest plate, or I’ll rip little Sides out of his casing” Sunstreaker threatened.

“Hey. You wouldn’t dare” Sideswipe said, only to be hushed by one of the room occupants again.

“Think again. Shut up, I’m trying to recharge” Sunstreaker said, trying to go back into recharge. Only for Sideswipe to start sucking on his neck cables.

 “Stop” Sunstreaker ordered, moving closer to the edge of the berth.

“But Sunny”

“Shut up” Sunstreaker ordered.

“Sunny”

“I’m recharging”

"You're talking!"

"You're replying"

"You're so annoying."

"I love you too."

Sunstreaker glared and shut off his optics again, only for Sideswipe to poke him in the gaps between his armour plates.

“Sideswipe”

“Look. If it weren't for all this chatting, we would have been done by now and I would be recharging”.

“I was recharging until you woke me”.   

“Well, since your awake now. I happen to know a way in which we can both go back to recharge”.

 “No,” Sunstreaker said.

“Ugh, you are such a prude."

“I’m not” protested Sunstreaker, only to be hushed by one of the room occupants again.

"Care to prove it?" Sideswipe taunted but Sunstreaker stayed silent.

"I'll take that as a no then."

"You do that," Sunstreaker said. Then there was blissful silence for a few breems.

“Sunny…. are you still awake? I still can't recharge you know”.

“Really I hadn’t noticed”

“Sunny”

“Sides. Shut up” Sunstreaker ordered again. Then he huffed.

“Fine”

“What?” 

"Have your way with me."

"…You do realize your optics are still closed."

"I'm planning on going back to recharge. You do what you want and then go back to your own berth”.

Sideswipe pounced on Sunstreaker and started wildly running his hands over Sunstreaker’s frame. Sideswipe started kissing Sunstreaker’s lips but got no response.

"It's no fun when you aren't kissing me back…Kiss me back!" Sideswipe ordered but Sunstreaker didn’t reply.

“Sunny…… Sunshine, are you awake? SUNSTREAKER! That hurt” Sideswipe whined after Sunstreaker bit his lips.

“Good”

“Alright that’s it. You two out, and don’t come back until the next cycle”.

Sunstreaker and Sideswipe turned to their commander, who looked very angry and pointing his finger at the door.

“Yes Sir” chorused the twins. Sunstreaker and Sideswipe left the barracks, once outside Sunstreaker walked away.

“Hey, where are you going?” Sideswipe called.

“Away from you so I can get some recharge” Sunstreaker answered, disappearing down the corridor, leaving Sideswipe alone.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

Sunstreaker cursed under his breath as the shouts from a particular reporter followed him. This reporter called Artifice, informed the general population about everything going on in the art industry, particularly the gossip. Sunstreaker stopped in his tracks as one of his security guards, cried out.

Artifice had slammed her elbow joint into the poor mech and darted around him. So, Artifice was between the two mechs. Artifice was desperate, she needed to confirm that the famous artist Sunstreaker was in a relationship, with a pleasurebot.

If Artifice couldn’t get the confirmation, she would lose her followers. This would ruin her reputation and she could not let that happen. Artifice need some kind of statement from the handsome famous artist.

“Sunstreaker, your fans need to know” Artifice paused, “Are you really in a relationship with a pleasurebot called Sideswipe”.

Sunstreaker turned around abruptly, almost making Artifice crash into him. Artifice hoped that he would say something, but he just glared with his arms crossed. Artifice heard the security mech swearing, then calling for backup. Artifice did not have much time; she needed the famous golden handsome artist to say something. Then Artifice smiled and spoke.

“I wonder what the population will think of you. Interfacing with a pleasurebot”.

Sunstreaker’s optics flashed white, and he growled.

“Listen Article”

“ITS ARTIFICE”.

“Pity that remodel of your faceplates. Did nothing to your nasal ridge”.

“How dare you?” Artifice shrieked. Wondering how the famous artist knew about her recent surgery to make her face plates younger and more likable.

“Because it seems your nasal ridge can’t stay out of others' business. Mine and Sideswipes in particular”. Sunstreaker finished.

Thankfully Sunstreaker’s security team joined the pair and Artifice was forced to move away from the famous artist.

“Take this piece of slag, away”, Sunstreaker ordered. Artifice was forcefully grabbed and shoved out of Sunstreaker’s sight.

“Oh, Artifice. Sideswipe is not a pleasurebot” Sunstreaker said. Then the famous artist walked away, followed by his security team. Needless to say, Artifice didn’t get anything useful out of the famous golden artist, but it was not matter to her. Artifice still released an article about the artist Sunstreaker and his pleasurebot partner.

Chapter Text

“This is wrong,” Sunstreaker said, as his back pressed against the wall. Sunstreaker moaned and tilted his helm back, allowing Sideswipe to kiss and nibble his neck cables.

“We shouldn’t do this” Sunstreaker protested followed by a moan as Sideswipe squeezed Sunstreaker’s aft plates. Sunstreaker felt the temperature rising in the small space the twins currently occupied. Sunstreaker’s fans kicked in, trying to cool his rapidly increasing temperature.

Sunstreaker heard the thumping of the beat as the party continued without the twin’s presence. Sunstreaker had been invited to the party along with his current femme friend Harmony. Only for Sideswipe to be present in the crowd with his own femme friend.

Sunstreaker was shocked to see his twin again, after a few cycles. It was awkward for them both, luckily cubes were thrust into their hands and Sunstreaker quickly drank it with Sideswipe copying his actions. Then Harmony dragged Sunstreaker away as the high grade kicked in, somehow Sunstreaker was separated from his femme friend and ended up in the cleaning storeroom with his twin.

“Why not Sunshine” Sideswipe asked popping his lips off his twin’s now wet neck cables.

“You are in a relationship” Sunstreaker started to say.

“So I am I. I don’t see where you are going with this” Sideswipe asked, running his hands down Sunstreaker’s frame.

“I don’t cheat Sides” Sunstreaker stated, pushing Sideswipe away creating a small space between their bodies.

“I’ve missed you, Sunny. Haven’t you missed me” Sideswipe asked, stepping forward only for Sunstreaker to push him away again. Sunstreaker moved along the wall to the door, causing Sideswipe to move into the position that Sunstreaker had been in seconds before.

“No, I’m very happy with Harmony. Besides you’re the one who wanted us to lead separate lives” Sunstreaker said, pointing out that it was Sideswipe that suggested the twins spend some time away from each other.

Sunstreaker remembered the happy times when Sideswipe would spend the night cycles in Sunstreaker’s berth and wake up together after a fun exhausting night. Then Sideswipe started acting odd and was spending less time with Sunstreaker and more with others.

“I was wrong”, Sideswipe said, “I miss you”

“I don’t miss you. I’m happy with my life. I’m happy with Harmony” Sunstreaker stated. Then he looked at Sideswipe with disdain.

“I don’t need you Sideswipe. I’ll never need you again” Sunstreaker said, opening the door and stepping out into the corridor. Sunstreaker closed the door, engaging the lock.

“Sunny, where did you disappear too” Harmony asked, swaying with the music and the high grade in her systems.

“Nowhere important” Sunstreaker answered.

“Then come dance with me” Sunstreaker was not able to protest as Harmony grabbed his hand and dragged him back to the party. Sunstreaker pushed all thoughts of his twin out of his helm and let himself enjoy the party with his femme friend Harmony.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• This is a sequel to Break up
• And I blame Sunstreaker for a 4am start because he wouldn’t let me sleep as this played out in my head.
• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

The party was in full swing, but Sunstreaker was trying not to scowl, in case the flashing cameras caught a glimpse of his faceplate. The party was being hosted by another artist that loved all the shades of the colour pink. The party had all different shades of pink decorations and even the drinks were the same colour.

Sunstreaker cursed his manager’s name along in his helm. Sunstreaker felt like all this particular colour was reminding him of the last conversation he had with Sideswipe. Sunstreaker scanned the crowd but didn’t see a certain berth hopper anywhere.

Then the artist Pinky, who was the host of the party spotted the famous artist Sunstreaker.

“Hi, Sunstreaker. I’m so glad you are attending my party. Do you like it?”

“Yes, I like it,” Sunstreaker said, lying because he hated the colour pink. Pinky had requested that the attendees wear something pink, so Sunstreaker wore a pink piece of cloth across his chest. He personally thought it clashed with his fabulous freshly shined frame.

“I’m so happy you like it. Can I get an autograph?” Pink asked, holding out a datapad. Sunstreaker took the waiting datapad and scanned it, before signing it.

“Thank you. You are the best” Pinky gushed as he clutched the now precious datapad to his chestplate. Sunstreaker just nodded his helm. Then Pinky started talking about something but Sunstreaker was not listening. Sideswipe had entered the party wearing a piece of pink cloth around his hips, like some species of organics. He was accompanied by a handsome white mech with a pink sash like Sunstreaker’s.

Sunstreaker felt jealous as the white mech placed his arm on Sideswipe’s backplates. Sunstreaker admitted that he missed his special someone. Sideswipe had always made him smile and helped him relax in a whole lot of ways. Sideswipe was the perfect distraction, and the best muse Sunstreaker could have ever asked for.

The white mech left Sideswipe alone, disappearing into the crowd. Then Tracks the famous model approached Sideswipe. He started talking and Sunstreaker felt his jealousy rise to a new heights as Tracks stepped into Sideswipe’s personal space. When Tracks touched Sideswipe’s arm, Sunstreaker saw red.

“Sunstreaker. Are you listening to me” Pinky asked.          

“No, I wasn’t. Excuse me” Sunstreaker said, walking away.  Tracks looked at the approaching famous artist.

“Sunstreaker. I haven’t had the pleasure”.

“And you won’t,” Sunstreaker said, stepping close to Sideswipe, who was looking quite surprised.

Sunstreaker took no notice and glared at Tracks.

“Sunstreaker what has got you so mad?” Tracks asked, “I was only talking to this pleasurebot”.

Sideswipe called out “Hey”.

“Sideswipe is not a pleasurebot. The only pleasurebot around here is you” Sunstreaker stated. Tracks was stunned at first. He couldn’t believe his optics the famous artist along with the famous berth hopper, knew each other somehow. 

“Really Sunstreaker. Don’t tell me you know this individual?” Tracks asked.

“Maybe I do. What is your point?” Sunstreaker asked, standing between the two mechs.

“That you seem to know each other. Don’t tell me you have fallen for this pleasurebot”.

“That is none of your business Tracks” Sunstreaker stepped closer, making Tracks step back. The guests close to the commotion, watched in silence.

“Well, I see I’m not wanted”.

“That’s right. Leave” Sunstreaker interrupted. Track’s sneered and walked away into the crowd. 

“Thanks, Sunny… Um Sunstreaker”

Sunstreaker turned around to look at Sideswipe.

“You sleep with a mech for one time. And he doesn’t get the hint” Sideswipe continued.

“You had a relationship with Tracks,” Sunstreaker said, with an expression of revulsion on his faceplates.

“Nope, one night stand. I’ll say this though. Never again” Sideswipe shuddered at the memory.

“Anyway. Thanks again” Sideswipe turned away to search for his date. When Sunstreaker loudly cleared his vocalizer, making Sideswipe stand still. 

“I miss you” Sunstreaker admitted. Sideswipe was stunned and he carefully turned round.

“I was stupid. I shouldn’t have asked you to leave”, Sunstreaker paused watching Sideswipe’s face plates, “You make me smile. And you are the best lover I’ve ever had. Please come back to me” Sunstreaker begged.

The crowd had gone silent, watching the scene before them. The cameras were flashing as the journalists were recording everything. Sideswipe couldn’t react, he didn’t know what to do.

“Say something”.

“Just kiss him”.

“Well, I would be a jerk if I said no now,” Sideswipe said, finally snapping back to reality. Sunstreaker smiled and closed the gap between them. Their lips met in the most perfect kiss.

“See. I guess I was wrong about you hating the colour pink” Sideswipe said, smiling. Sunstreaker smacked him on the back of the helm, then kissed him again with the cameras flashing all around them.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Both twins are actors

Blasting through the thick steel door and upending them on their hinges. Sunstreaker stormed through with fury racing through his lines. Sunstreaker shot his blaster at calculated angles and not even pausing in his stride as grey bodies fell to the floor. Sunstreaker ignores this as he strode towards his destination. However, he did look back at the end of the corridor to see if anything was lurking in the shadows of the fortress.

Then Sunstreaker heard the clatter of peds and yelling voices. Sunstreaker sighed and reloaded his weapon. Without missing a beat, Sunstreaker fired on the approaching enemy soldiers. Sunstreaker’s blaster brightly colouring the otherwise dark room. Sunstreaker did a quick scan of the area as the last mech fell to the floor, offline. Sunstreaker nodded in satisfaction at the number of cooling bodies lying in the room; whirling back around, he glared down at the intended target.

In the centre of the room is a red, white, and black mech, unconscious and tied to a chair.

"You just HAD to get caught" Sunstreaker growls as stalked forwards, then cut the chains. Kneeling down in front of him, Sunstreaker takes in the mech’s unconscious form- quickly noting several dents on his faceplate. Along with energon splatters dotting his otherwise pristine armour.

“Damn you, Sideswipe. I told you to stay put. This war is not for the weak. Did you listen? NO. That's why I had to come and get you. You should stay out of a war between gladiators”.

Sunstreaker carefully maneuvered Sideswipe to the floor and pulled out a syringe, filled with fluid. In one quick jab, Sunstreaker inserted the syringe into Sideswipe’s neck cables. It only takes a few seconds for Sideswipe to open his optics.

“Sunny. What happened” Sideswipe asked, rubbing his optics. Sideswipe takes in his surroundings and notices the bodies lying on the floor. Turning to his left, he sees the glassy-eyed stare of a dead mech looking back at him. Sideswipe turned his helm away, to the other side to see another dead body, lying in a pool of fluid.

Sideswipe looked up directly at Sunstreaker, his vents stalled when he saw just how beautiful Sunstreaker was in his fury.

“You completely careless idiot! I TOLD you to stay put! INSTEAD, you were captured by your own foolishness. Then the leader of the Gladiators Megatron. Sent me a message. ‘Oh, little Sunshine! I have your precious special someone. Who will be spending some time with me. Don’t worry. I’ll send him back in pieces for you’ Sunstreaker quoted, mimicking Megatron’s voice. 

Sunstreaker scanned Sideswipe to see if Megatron had added an extra surprise to Sideswipe. When he found none, he sighed with relief. Sunstreaker pressed his forehead to Sideswipes.

“You’re clean. AND never do this again”.

“I promise I won’t,” Sideswipe said, then he gently cupped Sunstreaker’s faceplate. Acting on a whim, Sideswipe brushes his fingertips against Sunstreaker’s faceplate and leans forward, pressing his lips gently to Sunstreaker’s. Squeaking in surprise, Sunstreaker tenses up and then gradually relaxes into the kiss, pressing his lips more firmly against Sideswipes.

"CUT! CUT! What are you guys doing?! This isn't part of the script!".

The director yells at the pair, from his chair off-stage. This snapped the two out of their actions and they sprung apart. Not able to look at each other in embarrassment.

“Look I’m glad, you two finally gave in to your feelings for each other. But there is a time and place. AND now is not the time! We're on a short schedule and Megatron was ready for the next scene! Do you mechs even know how long it is to get the armour on right?"

Huffing angrily, the director turned around and stomped away. While doing so, he yelled for everyone to take 10. The cast and crew relaxed as the director left the room. They started doing other tasks as Sunstreaker and Sideswipe just stood in the centre of the set.

Shuffling their peds nervously, Sunstreaker and Sideswipe look at each other. then Sideswipe gently nudged Sunstreaker, indicating with his helm to follow him. Sunstreaker pursed his lips but nodded and fell into step beside Sideswipe. He shooed Sunstreaker into his trailer, where Sunstreaker sat down on the soft cushioned seat.

“I just want to say. I'm sorry I kissed you without your permission, but I'm not sorry for enjoying it” Sideswipe said, wringing his hands nervously. Sideswipe shifts his weight in the silence, but then turns to leave. Nevertheless, before Sideswipe could move an inch, a hand stops him. Sideswipe looks down at the black hand and then back up. Sideswipe noticed the Sunstreaker’s optics show a sense of determination, that Sideswipe recognized from other students at the acting academy.

“I’m annoyed that we're going to have to re-do that scene” Sunstreaker paused, “But I'm glad you kissed me”.

“Say what?”.

“The first time, I did a scene with you. It was obvious that there was some sort of tension between us”.

“Oh Primus, you picked up on that. Do you think the other actors know? Wait do you think Megatron will be mad because you two have a thing”.

Sideswipe was silenced by Sunstreaker, kissing him roughly. Sideswipe melted into Sunstreaker’s hold, wrapping his arms tightly around the golden armour. Sideswipe inhaled the scent of expensive wax and sweet energon treats.

“Be mine, Sideswipe. Then we can play our parts more efficiently” Sunstreaker said, after breaking their kiss. Sunstreaker gently cupped Sideswipe’s faceplate and tightened his hold on him. Sunstreaker gently nuzzles Sideswipe’s neck cables.

“Sunstreaker”.

“Be mine… Please” Sunstreaker repeated.

“Of course,” Sideswipe said. Then he was kissed so gently, he felt that he was lighter than air. Then there was a loud banging on the door.

“It’s been over 10. We need you both on set, now”.

“Duty calls,” Sunstreaker said, then he let Sideswipe go and exited the trailer with Sideswipe following behind him.

Chapter Text

“SHUT UP!” Sunstreaker yelled, angrier than he'd been in a very long time. "Shut up, just – shut UP!"

“No” Sideswipe screamed back, poking his finger on Sunstreaker’s golden armour. Sideswipe quickly removed it when Sunstreaker reached to grab his hand.

“You’re going to listen!” Sideswipe added, barely heard above the loud music playing in the club.

“I’m NOT going to listen to you chatter on about” Sunstreaker yelled back, drawing attention from the onlookers, who were close enough to hear what was happening.

"You started this conversation SUNSTREAKER. Remember? You are going to follow it through! All I said was – "

Sunstreaker covered his audios along with his vents. Sunstreaker glared at his annoying twin brother.

"I can't hear you! I can't hear you!"

Sunstreaker was vaguely aware that the crowd probably was listening and thought he may be acting like a sparkling. However, Sunstreaker didn’t care as Sideswipe screamed at him causing his audio system to hurt.

Sunstreaker breathed through his mouth as his temperature rose to an uncomfortable level but he didn’t remove his hands.

"I happen to think – " Sideswipe shouted, he was unable to finish the sentence as Sunstreaker decided he'd had enough.

Sunstreaker removed his hands from his audio systems and moved closer to his twin, causing Sideswipe to back into the wall. Sunstreaker cupped his twin’s faceplates.

“Shut up!” Sunstreaker growled, aligning their faceplates.

“Shut” Sunstreaker said, kissing Sideswipe’s lips quickly and angrily. Sideswipe tried to break out of his twin’s hold.

“Up” Sunstreaker kissed Sideswipe again, harder than before.

“Shut up!” Sunstreaker pressed his lips against his twin’s again.

“Just…. shut… up” Sunstreaker emphasized each word with a kiss.

Sideswipe was stunned and his mouth hung open. Sunstreaker realized what he had done and quickly stepped back, letting go of his twin. The pair of brothers stared at each other.

“That’s how it’s going to end,” said a voice.

“Yeah, I thought there would be more to it than that,” said another.

“Oh go on Sides. You know you want to,” said another voice.

Seemingly that was the encouragement Sideswipe needed because he stepped towards Sunstreaker without a word. Sideswipe reached out, grabbing his twin and placing their lips together. Sunstreaker realized that he had never ever been kissed like this in his long life before. It was angry and desperate, just like their previous argument.

Sunstreaker was too stunned to react to his twin’s movements, only when Sideswipe sucked on his bottom lip did Sunstreaker respond. Sunstreaker placed his hands on his twin’s lower back, Sunstreaker’s fingers gently touching Sideswipe’s aft plates. Sunstreaker forgot everything as he lost himself in the kiss.

Sunstreaker felt somebot’s fingers touching his own armour plates, seeking all the right pleasure sensors. Sunstreaker gasped as a particular sensor on his right hip was touched the right way.

“Now it’s getting good”

Sunstreaker reopened his optics, not even realizing that he had closed them in the first place. Sunstreaker moved away from his twin, Sideswipe looked lost for a brief moment. Luckily Sunstreaker quickly recovered by running his hand over his finish.

“Well… Looks like I won” Sunstreaker said, turning on his heel and quickly leaving Sideswipe with his friends.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe was crying again. Why was it that every time Sideswipe was alone, he would start crying? Didn’t Sideswipe have any pride?  And why was it always Sunstreaker had to listen and feel his twin’s woe?

Sunstreaker had enough of his twin’s emotional state. It was so obvious to Sunstreaker that Sideswipe was hiding his sadness from his friends. Sunstreaker knew his twin had been dumped very publicly by Wheeler who was now courting an easy but beautiful femme. Sunstreaker’s problem was that he lived with Sideswipe and Sunstreaker couldn’t take the fluid marks on Sideswipe’s faceplate.

Then one night cycle Sunstreaker entered the wash racks to find Sideswipe sitting under the spray, crying again.

“Get up” Sunstreaker ordered, storming towards Sideswipe. Sunstreaker was fed up with his twin’s display of self-pity. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe immediately turned his helm to look at Sunstreaker.

“S-Sunny” Sideswipe said, scrambling to his peds and hastily wiping away the optic fluid that lingered on his faceplates.

“Clean yourself up” Sunstreaker snapped, coming closer. Sideswipe pressed his back against the wall, unable to do anything. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe stood still as a statue, looking blankly ahead. Sunstreaker sighed and grabbed one of his cleaning cloths. He stepped forward and gently wiped away the fluid on his twin’s faceplate.

“You’re sobbing over that ridiculous piece of slag. Aren’t you?" Sunstreaker said, placing one hand on the wash rack wall by Sideswipe’s neck cables. Sideswipe realized that he was boxed in by his twin, on one side.

“No. Why do you care?” Sideswipe snapped but his tone was heavy from his earlier crying.

Sunstreaker blew out air from his vents.

“You are my twin. And I have had enough of you, crying over that pathetic piece of slag. It's beneath even you, and I'm going to make you stop."

“Oh yeah. How? You are not known for being comforting” Sideswipe said.

“True but I’ve reached my limit. Every time I come home, I find you crying and leaving optic fluid everywhere”.

Sideswipe could not believe this was happening. His not-even remotely emotional twin was trying to console him. Sideswipe just could not deal with this, that was until Sunstreaker smacked him.

“What was that for?” Sideswipe asked, rubbing his faceplate.

“You were looking lost there” Sunstreaker replied.

“I was” Sideswipe admitted, “You don’t normally care what I do”.

“That is true. But I can’t stand it anymore” Sunstreaker admitted. Then he pulled his hand away and stepped back, letting Sideswipe step forward. Sunstreaker relaxed his stance and Sideswipe wrapped his arms around his twin. Sunstreaker did the same as Sideswipe buried his helm into Sunstreaker’s shoulder and cried.

“It's okay. Let it all out” Sunstreaker murmured, fighting his own tears. Due to the bond, making Sunstreaker feel the exact emotions that Sideswipe was feeling. Sideswipe soon calmed down, but Sunstreaker kept a firm grip on his twin. The twins stayed under the spray until it grew cold and Sunstreaker shut it off. Then without saying anything Sunstreaker led Sideswipe to his berth, where the twins stayed until the sun rose, recharging together like they were sparklings.

Chapter Text

“I like you, Sunny”.

“You’re overcharged Sideswipe” Sunstreaker said, sipping from his third cube of high grade.

“Am not” Sideswipe said. He had his helm propped up on one hand, using the other to finish off the remnants of his 9th cube of high grade. After Sideswipe double and triple-checked that the inside of his cube was empty. Sideswipe discarded it on the bar top which made a small thud and left a mark. The bar mech glared at the twins but Sunstreaker glared back. However, Sideswipe ignored the actions of his twin and moved to the next overcharged thought.

“Why do others say that they don’t like your personality?”. *hiccup*

“I wasn’t aware that my personality was a popular topic amongst your friends, but thanks for letting me know”.

Sunstreaker hoped that Sideswipe would not continue on his train of thought and he moved his hand closer in case he had to cover Sideswipe’s mouth.

“Well, they’re wrong. I like your personality”. *hiccup*

Before Sunstreaker could say anything, Sideswipe was out of his seat and stumbling confidently towards a couple of femmes, sitting further down the bar.

“Hey 'scuse me. Hi, my names Sides *hiccup*. Do you see that handsome mech over there? Apparently, he has a brooding personality” Sideswipe said, while gesturing theatrically and slurring his words.

Sunstreaker, unsure whether it was Sideswipe or the femmes who needed rescuing from the unfolding situation. Sunstreaker raced up behind Sideswipe and gripped his shoulders, attempting to move Sideswipe away.

“Excuse my friend here, he’s overcharged,” Sunstreaker said to the femmes, who were either looking appalled at Sideswipe’s behaviour. Or trying not to laugh at the overcharged mech in front of them.

“Actually, I’m his mech partner,” Sideswipe said. Then he whispered, “But he doesn’t know that yet-- *hiccup* - so shhhhh." Sideswipe placed a finger to his lips to demonstrate how they should stay quiet.

Some of the femmes were laughing as Sunstreaker hung his helm. Wishing that he had more to drink than Sideswipe because he did not want to deal with this.

“Sides, you are not my mech partner,” Sunstreaker said finally succeeding at steering him back to their spot at the bar. Sideswipe stumbled back onto the barstool.

“You have to stop saying that or others will think it’s true” Sunstreaker continued.

Sunstreaker looked at his overcharged brother expectantly, waiting for an acknowledgment but Sideswipe was looking back with the most stupidest look on his faceplate.

“Well,” Sunstreaker prompted, trying to get an answer.

“I wanna kiss you,” Sideswipe said but it came out more like “iwanuhkishoe”.

Sunstreaker blew air out of his vents as Sideswipe reached for his forgotten drink.

“Sides that’s not your drink,” Sunstreaker said, snatching the cube away, “that’s mine”.

“How about we share?” Sideswipe suggested, smiling. Then he became distracted as a waitress past carrying a cube of high grade that gave off tiny flames.

“I wanna *hiccup* try that”.

“No. You’ve had enough” Sunstreaker stated, finishing his cube and leaving it on the bar.

“You know *hiccup* it's been a fun date,” Sideswipe said, leaning against the bar.

"We're not on a date. Your friends left you and I couldn't, in good conscience, leave you by yourself in your... current state” Sunstreaker said, standing up.

“Oh.. *hiccup* d'you wanna go date me sometime?" Sideswipe asked.

“Let’s discuss that at a later date”.

“Wrong answer *hiccup* try again,” Sideswipe said, smiling. Sunstreaker huffed.

“I think this is it for the night. it's time to get you home" Sunstreaker announced. After some slurred protests from Sideswipe, Sunstreaker was able to drag his brother out of the bar and to their apartment.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

“Wait… are you flirting with me?” Sunstreaker asked, his face plate scrunched subtly as he peered over his canvas, his helm tilted in confusion.

Sideswipe sighed and resisted the urge to cover his face plate with his hands in exasperation. He stood next to Sunstreaker’s workbench, hoping that no paint transferred to his frame.

“Have been since the start of this project, but thanks for noticing”.

Sideswipe heard a small thump. Sunstreaker had dropped his brush, leaving a green paint stain on the floor. Sideswipe was slightly panicking because he had openly admitted his behaviour towards the famous artist. Sideswipe realized that there was a chance that Sunstreaker might reject his advances.

“Really?” He yelped, moving away from his canvas, the paintbrush forgotten.

Sideswipe nodded, while his systems started to feel uncomfortable.

“Really” Sideswipe acknowledged.

“But I don’t understand,” Sunstreaker said while frowning. He moved to his workbench, standing only a few feet away from Sideswipe.

Sideswipe resisted the urge to reach out and smooth out the lines on Sunstreaker’s handsome faceplates, but Sideswipe clenched his fists instead.

“The great artist Sunstreaker doesn't understand something,” Sideswipe said in mock surprise, “Alert the press!”

“That’s quite enough!" Sunstreaker hissed, glancing around the workspace around them.

Sideswipe noticed that Sunstreaker’s hands were tapping randomly on the surface of the workbench.

“Sorry,” Sideswipe muttered, “I’m a little nervous”.

“You’re really nervous” Sunstreaker mocked. Sideswipe saw Sunstreaker bite his lip and shift his gaze from Sideswipe to the wall behind him.

“The reason I asked to be put on this project was so I could interact with you” Sideswipe admitted.

Sunstreaker’s optics brightened for an astrosecond and then returned to normal. Sunstreaker just stared ahead, not able to look away.

“So, you’re not really interested in helping build this new art centre” Sunstreaker finally said, coming out of his shocked state.

“No… Umm I mean yes” Sideswipe fumbled, “Yes, I am. I just… It was a good opportunity um to get to know you” Sideswipe finished lamely, looking down at the floor. Sideswipe looked back up to see that Sunstreaker was confused but there seemed to be something else beneath that emotion displayed on his faceplate.

Sideswipe had always wanted to meet the famous artist Sunstreaker because he had been pining after Sunstreaker for some time. The first time Sideswipe met the famous artist, he admitted to himself that his feelings were more than a passing infatuation. Sideswipe thought that using witty, sometimes downright cheeky quips would be enough to alert the famous artist of his intentions. But Sunstreaker maintained a persona of professionalism that seemed impossible to crack.

Sideswipe hadn’t done anything differently well he had suggested that they should spend some time in another art gallery, just the two of them. It was an obvious attempt to gain Sunstreaker’s attention.

“You like me?” Sunstreaker said, pointing to himself. Sideswipe snapped out of his thoughts at the sound of Sunstreaker’s voice. Sideswipe shook his helm to try and register the words that spilled out of Sunstreaker’s mouth. He looked a bit angry.

“Yes, I like you” Sideswipe admitted, “What gave you the impression that I didn't?"

Sunstreaker shrugged and looked back at the wall. Sunstreaker resumed taping his fingers on the surface of the workbench. Sideswipe realized that Sunstreaker was just as nervous as he was, so one of his hands reached for Sunstreaker’s of its own accord. However, Sideswipe hesitated and let his hand fall heavily on the workbench surface. Sideswipe’s fingers landed inches away from the tips of Sunstreaker’s fingers.

“I like you Sunstreaker” Sideswipe admitted, looking shyly up at the famous artist. Sideswipe knew that was a lie, he felt that he had deeper feelings for Sunstreaker but it was probably for the best that he didn’t admit those feelings just yet.

A long silence stretched between them, and Sideswipe felt they might as well be on opposite sides of the room rather than standing in front of each other. Sideswipe realized that he should leave as it was getting awkward.

“I’ll just go” Sideswipe announced, quickly turning around and heading for the exit.

“No... Wait Sideswipe”

Sideswipe was surprised as Sunstreaker quickly past him and stood in his way.

“I’m... just confused. I never thought you would admit such a thing” Sunstreaker said, closing the gap between them.

Sideswipe was shorted by a helm and shoulders, so Sunstreaker had to tilt his face plate down to meet Sideswipe’s optics. Sunstreaker’s optics were searching his looking for something, but Sideswipe didn’t know what.

“It’s okay. I was just…”

Sideswipe was unable to finish as Sunstreaker placed a finger on his lips to quieten him.

“Shh! It is just a bit of a shock. I wasn’t expecting our interaction to go like this” Sunstreaker admitted, pulling his finger away.

“Well, to be honest, neither was I" Sideswipe murmured with a small smile, Sunstreaker smiled too.

“So, what happens now?” Sunstreaker asked.

“I don’t know. I confessed my feelings for you. Whether they are to be explored or not is up to you"

Sunstreaker paused for a second, then stepped closer so their bodies were touching.

“How about we go for a meal” Sunstreaker suggested.

“A meal” Sideswipe managed to say.

“Yes. I believe that there is a nice café not too far from here. I’ll meet you here again in a few hours. I need to freshen up”

Sideswipe was completely stunned as Sunstreaker kissed his cheek. Then he pulled away and walked away with his helm held high.

“I’ll... see you then” Sideswipe called. Once Sunstreaker left the room, Sideswipe celebrated with joy, he was going for a meal with the famous artist Sunstreaker. Then Sideswipe realized that he should freshen up as well. Sideswipe quickly hurried to his apartment to get ready for his next encounter with the famous artist Sunstreaker.

Chapter Text

“Did you finish the patrol report from 5 nights ago?” Sideswipe asks Sunstreaker.

The two of them were in their quarters working on late patrol reports from Prowl. However, he did not reply. Sideswipe looked over to his twin’s desk, observing Sunstreaker write out his reports. Sideswipe decided that Sunstreaker was purposely ignoring him like he had been doing for the whole day. Sunstreaker was acting like that Sideswipe didn’t exist.

“Right. That’s it”

Sideswipe slammed his datapad down and strode over to his twin.

“What is wrong with you? Sunny”

Sunstreaker growled at the nickname.

“You’ve been acting strange ever since that chat with Jazz and Bluestreak in the rec room”.

Sunstreaker placed his writing apparatus on his desk and turned to stare at Sideswipe with a blank expression on his faceplate.

“Did something happen in the rec room?”.

Sunstreaker gave no reply.

“Was it something Bluestreak said? Or Jazz”.

Sunstreaker said nothing.

“Okay,” Sideswipe sighed, “It has to be something I did, right?”.

Sunstreaker gave a little twitch but continued to keep his lips sealed.

Sideswipe gave Sunstreaker a little push, to slide him away from his desk. Sideswipe moved so he filled the space between Sunstreaker’s desk and chair. Sideswipe reached out and touched Sunstreaker’s shoulder, who gave no reaction.

“I hate to break it to you Sunny, but I can’t read your mind. So, you have two options, you either tell me what I supposedly did wrong. Or you can suck it up”.

Sideswipe didn’t add the insult of ‘buttercup’ because he knew Sunstreaker would have slugged him. Which was not what Sideswipe wanted to happen.

 Sunstreaker glared at him, but Sideswipe held his ground. Sunstreaker would always do something like this, he got jealous for whatever reason and then completely shut Sideswipe out. It was like Sideswipe was expected to know what was wrong with the yellow twin. However Sideswipe didn’t automatically know what was wrong with Sunstreaker, he never did because there were too many things.

“Fine” Sunstreaker finally said. Then he removed Sideswipe’s hand from him. Sunstreaker stood up to his full height and tilted his helm, making Sideswipe feel a little smaller.

“You tell me what’s wrong with this scenario,” Sunstreaker began, “I spent two hours polishing myself for you, only for you to flirt with Jazz. While you left me to listen to Bluestreak blabber on”.

Sideswipe shifted backwards, his legs hitting Sunstreaker’s desk. Sunstreaker’s faceplate was very close, so close that Sideswipe could feel the hot air being vented out of Sunstreaker’s helm vents. However, Sideswipe let out a little sigh and counted to ten. Sunstreaker was always getting jealous for no reason, accusing Sideswipe of flirting with others that he had absolutely no interest in.

“I wasn’t flirting with Jazz” Sideswipe said, defending himself.

“Really. You so were”, Sunstreaker argued, “I know how you flirt Sideswipe”.

“I wasn’t”.

Sideswipe felt the heat from Sunstreaker’s frame as his optics trailed down to Sideswipe’s lips.

“You did that thing where you do many brief glances and your touches become subtle, mixed with meanings”.

“I-I never”. Sunstreaker cut him off.

“You may not realize it..." Sunstreaker gently traced one of his fingers down Sideswipe’s cheek. Their optics met, the same shape and colour.

“But you do. Especially when the bot retaliates”.

Sideswipe’s internal temperature sensors were telling him, that he was close to overheating. Sideswipe could not believe what he was feeling right now towards his twin.

“Has anyone ever told you, that you’re very sexy when you’re jealous?” Sideswipe asked nervously, ignoring the warning messages on his HUD as his temperature climbed. Sunstreaker smirked as he noticed the nervousness in Sideswipe’s tone. Sunstreaker knew he was making Sideswipe want him, so he ignored the question.

Sunstreaker moved closer so that his lips ghosted over his twins. Then he pulled away, smirking as he did so.

“Here’s the report you asked for. I’m taking a break”.

Then Sunstreaker left their quarters while Sideswipe quickly cooled his systems. Then he continued his reports so that Prowl didn’t throw him in the brig, again.

Chapter Text

Notes

• this is set between the chapters Break Up and Pink.
• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

It’s been only sixteen cycles since their breakup.

And Sunstreaker was over Sideswipe. Really. He’d managed for some time without him haunting his memory circuits. Sunstreaker had moved on.

Or, rather, he’d thought he’d moved on, until Sunstreaker spotted Sideswipe across the crowded room. Sideswipe was freshly cleaned and polished so that his armour slightly shone under the lights. 

Primus, Sideswipe looked amazing.

The lights slightly highlighted Sideswipe’s black pelvic amour, it looked so inviting to Sunstreaker’s artistic optics. He yearned to touch Sideswipe there, among the other places he missed. Apparently, Sunstreaker was not so much over the red, black, and white mech as he still carried some feelings in his spark chamber.

Sunstreaker blew air out of his vents. It was going to be a long night cycle.

Aware that he’d been staring too long, and not ready to exchange niceties with his ex. Or even try to explain the staring, Sunstreaker started to look for one of his acquaintances who might have been invited to tonight’s event.

The turnout was large- Sunstreaker guessed that there were over a hundred guests. They were all nicely clean and attempting to create connections with others. However, the real reason for the event was to showcase art from local artists and raise credits to build an extension of the art gallery to display more pieces.

This is why Sunstreaker was forced to come by his manager to show his support for the local artistic community. Along with showing off his artistic skills to the adoring public. However, Sunstreaker couldn’t figure out why Sideswipe was at the event. There were too many reasons.

Sunstreaker felt a sudden shove to his shoulder, breaking Sunstreaker out of his thoughts. The mech was tall, lanky in build, and primarily white. He was carrying two flutes of energon.

“Sorry,” the mech called over his shoulder. Sunstreaker glared, wiping the arm before anyone noticed that he had a smudge on his gorgeous frame. Scowling after the mannerless mech, Sunstreaker watched as he reached his destination. Sunstreaker tightly held his energon flute, which would have been shattered to pieces at his peds. Sunstreaker watched the white mech offer his second flute to Sideswipe, then he reached out and touched Sideswipe on the arm. Sideswipe didn’t object which caused Sunstreaker to clench his fist.

Simmering with anger that Sideswipe had moved on when he couldn’t and furious that none of his acquaintances were annoyingly absent. Sunstreaker resigned himself to seeking his pre-relationship distractions which were femmes and high-grade. Sunstreaker scanned the room and soon spotted a white femme leaning against the bar. Most likely dateless and without a drink. An easy target for a mech such as himself.

It didn’t take long for Sunstreaker to charm the white femme but the conversation was dull. Sunstreaker was so used to Sideswipe’s personality while this femme droned on about the music that was playing.

Despite his anger, Sunstreaker found himself thinking about Sideswipe’s appearance. Which led him to thinking about Sideswipe’s date and that he would not be alone tonight.

  “One glass of Iaconian high grade, please” came a voice next to Sunstreaker, a voice he would've recognized among a crowd of a thousand. It was too late to run and too late to do anything except to say.

“Sideswipe”

 Sideswipe’s helm turned to look at him with a comfortable smile on his faceplate. Sideswipe clearly registered the use of his full name and decided to do the same.

“Sunstreaker” Sideswipe said in a cool tone.

Sunstreaker knew the polite thing to do would be to ask how Sideswipe had been or say something nice. He had to act as if he didn’t want to kill Sideswipe’s date. But he said.

“Where’s your date?”

It sounded bitter as Sunstreaker felt. Sideswipe took his drink from the barkeeper.

“Oh, Modulus? I’m sure he’s around somewhere. We all get pulled away at these events. I might not see him again until we leave” Sideswipe said before taking a sip of his high-grade.

The words ‘until we leave’ echoed in Sunstreaker’s audios. Sideswipe and his date were leaving together after the event. The confirmation of this made Sunstreaker want to punch a hole through the bar top. Or even leave the event and forget this ever happened.

“Is this your date?” Sideswipe asked, subtlety gesturing toward the forgotten white femme beside him.

“No. I don’t know her” Sunstreaker said. The white femme, whose designation he'd already forgotten, glared at Sunstreaker before snatching her glass and stomping away.

“Sides” called someone from across the room. They both turned to see Modulus gesturing wildly at them. In Sunstreaker’s opinion, he looked stupid. Sideswipe waved back.

“I’ve got to go” Sideswipe announced, “Maybe I’ll see you later to say goodbye before leaving”.

Sunstreaker pictured Sideswipe leaving with that white mech, saying goodbye to him. Sunstreaker felt his palm creek as the metal bent on the inside.

“Don’t bother” Sunstreaker dismissed, “If that mech is taking you anywhere. I don’t want to know”.

Sideswipe placed his drink down on the bar.

“You and I are no longer together Sunstreaker. Whomever I leave with, is none of your business” Sideswipe hissed. Then he walked away, with his helm held high towards his caller.

Sunstreaker blew air out of his vents, to cool his frame as he pictured the two leaving together. Sunstreaker decided he’d had enough.

Sunstreaker tore after Sideswipe, easily catching him. Sunstreaker grabbed Sideswipe’s arm and led him to the left. They passed a doorway with Sideswipe protesting the manhandling. They entered a corridor where Sunstreaker let Sideswipe go. They both could still hear the noise from the event.

None of that mattered to Sunstreaker, however, Sideswipe was not happy.

“What in the pits? Sunstreaker. What are you doing?” Sideswipe rapidly asked, crossing his arms over his chestplate, and glaring at the famous artist.

“I need to know more about this mech you’re dating… Modulus was it?” Sunstreaker answered.

“What’s it to you” Sideswipe asked, putting distance between them.

“I need to know when you meet him. And if he’s worth your time” Sunstreaker answered.

“I met Modulus cycles ago. We were business contacts. He asked me out to this party, and I said yes. He’s smart and funny, sometimes” Sideswipe explained.  Sunstreaker acknowledged Sideswipe’s words and though Sideswipe spoke fondly of this mech. Sunstreaker could find no attraction or desire.

Sunstreaker made his move, Sideswipe stepped back against the wall as Sunstreaker moved forward and trapped him there.

“Tell me Sides” Sunstreaker paused as he ran a finger down Sideswipe’s arm, “Do you like his touch more than mine?”

Sunstreaker smirked as he felt Sideswipe shudder under this touch. It seemed that Sideswipe was still affected by Sunstreaker’s touch. Since Sideswipe was not complaining Sunstreaker decided to push further. Sunstreaker wrapped an arm around Sideswipe’s waist and laid his hand on Sideswipe’s shoulder.

Sunstreaker moved in closer and whispered into Sideswipe’s audios.

“Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten what my hands feel like?”.

Sideswipe gulped as Sunstreaker brought their faceplates together.

“Sides” called a voice, “Are you okay?”

“Just fine Modulus” Sideswipe called back. Sideswipe pushed Sunstreaker away. Sideswipe didn’t say anything as he pushed past Sunstreaker and re-joined Modulus at the party. Sunstreaker slammed his fist into the wall, knowing that he had lost his chance but he swore he would try again until Sideswipe was his again.

Chapter Text

“Ooh, he is absolutely gorrrrgeous. I mean, yes, I know, he is your twin but you know…”

“I have absolutely no idea how you managed to go to work without wanting to work with him. I mean, seriously, Sides. How do you do it? You must have the will of Primus. Either that, or you have a CPU malfunction or something?”

“That’s your business partner? Seriously! He’s stunning”

“You’re so lucky you get to see him every cycle… I mean I wouldn’t be able to concentrate with him here”

“How can you not see him as an object of sexual desire”

“What do you mean he has the temper of an irate insecticon. He was so pleasant when talking to me”

Those were just some of the things customers had said to Sideswipe after meeting or seeing Sunstreaker. Sideswipe wondered why he ever agreed to let Sunstreaker be his business partner, in the first place because of the comments that Sideswipe had to listen to. And now his latest business venture was too distracted by the golden twin.

“Ohh Your twin is so good-looking? Maybe I should include him in this deal” Combustion said, Sideswipe’s latest client that had glimpsed the beautiful Sunstreaker upon entering the twins building.

“I don’t think that is a good idea Combustion”.

“What why?” Combustion asked, confused.

“Sunstreaker deals with anything art-related. You and I are dealing with importing certain metals to add to energon” Sideswipe replied, pointing out the reason Combustion was asking for Sideswipe’s services.

“You know what? I believe you are an excellent business mech but I don’t think I can trust you with your impaired logic”

“Excuse me. You were the one who sought out my business because of my reputation” Sideswipe said, not believing what he was hearing.

“Well now that I’ve met you. I don’t think you’re the business partner I need” Combustion explained, putting his documents away in his subspace.

“Combustion I assure you that I'm the best business mech around. My record can actually speak for itself, and if you'd only listen-"

“You know. I think I need Sunstreaker to be my business partner instead” Combustion stood up and walked out of Sideswipe’s office.

Sideswipe resisted the urge to bang his head against his desk as he heard Combustion make an appointment to see Sunstreaker. Sideswipe acknowledged for the thousandth time, that he should have never agreed to this, letting Sunstreaker be his business partner was supposed to be mutually beneficial. So that Sideswipe could pay the rent and let Sunstreaker take a break from his art. By doing this Sideswipe’s reputation took a hit and was slowly becoming non-existent.

Whoever thought that working with the handsome golden mech would ruin Sideswipe’s career. Sideswipe slumped in his chair and turned to look at said twin on the other side of the glass wall between their offices.

Sunstreaker was an attractive mech, that Sideswipe agreed with but Sunstreaker was his twin. And Sideswipe knew that he was not in his twin’s league.  Then Sunstreaker caught Sideswipe staring at him, and he smiled.

Oh.

Right.

What was Sideswipe’s point again?

Sideswipe shook his helm and looked back at the surface of his desk, arranging it for his next client.

Sunstreaker frowned as he watched Sideswipe read through his files. Sideswipe’s lips were turned down and his shoulders were slumped. Sunstreaker had noticed that Sideswipe was not his normal happy self, which concerned him.

The reason Sunstreaker agreed to be Sideswipe’s business partner is because he wanted to know more about his twin. To Sunstreaker sharing an office space was equal parts a perk and torture. Sunstreaker believed this was fine because he admitted that he had some masochistic tendencies. Watching Sideswipe smile and greet others caused Sunstreaker to be displeased. Hearing Sideswipe’s laugh when talking to his business friends only made Sunstreaker slightly jealous.

Sunstreaker wanted Sideswipe to notice him but it seemed that Sunstreaker was becoming more distracted by his own twin. Sunstreaker watched Sideswipe bite his lip as he read through his files.

Sunstreaker decided enough was enough so he stood up and exited his office. Sideswipe looked up from his files.

“Anything you want Sunshine,” Sideswipe asked, shuffling his files.

“Yes. I heard Combustion is to be my new client” Sunstreaker replied, coming closer and placing his hands on the chair across from Sideswipe’s desk.

“You’re correct” Sideswipe answered, returning his gaze to his files. Sunstreaker stepped forward and placed his hand on Sideswipe’s arm, forcing him to place his files on his desk.

“What are you doing?” Sideswipe asked as Sunstreaker came closer.

“Something I should have done cycles ago” Sunstreaker replied, lowering his mouth to his. Sunstreaker pried Sideswipe’s lips open, doing unimaginable things with his tongue, and had Sideswipe moaning in no time.

“What was that for?” Sideswipe asked, after managing to pull away from his twin’s lips. Sunstreaker didn’t answer, just captured Sideswipe’s lips again. Sideswipe lost himself to his twin’s lips before a chime echoed through the office.

Sunstreaker pulled away, smiling, and exited Sideswipe’s office.

“That’s your business partner” Sideswipe was asked again. Sideswipe watched as Sunstreaker gave a suggestive smirk and left out of sight.

“Yes.  Yes. That and much, much more. So, what can I do for you today?" Sideswipe asked, as the client sat down.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

“This has got to be a joke”.

“I’m going to kill my manager”.

Sideswipe and Sunstreaker both stood, freshly clean and waxed in front of the same single table. That was set up for two patrons at the finest bar in Crystal City.

“You’re my blind date? I showered to come meet you?” Sideswipe hadn’t meant to come off as rude, but he had gone to the detailer to get his frame all shiny. He’d even had his frame waxed.

“Charming. One would hope that you shower regardless of who you're going out to see" said Sunstreaker glancing up and down Sideswipe’s frame. He noticed that Sideswipe looked freshly waxed as well, but it was passable. Sideswipe suddenly felt very conscious of his looks.

What? It’d been a while since his last date…

“My shower habits are none of your concern Sunstreaker” Sideswipe stated, crossing his arms across his chest.

“Really, I thought they would be. I have a certain standard of cleanness for my dates”.

“Of course, you would” Sideswipe interrupted.

“However, do you want your shower habits to be my concern?” Sunstreaker asked, stepping closer.

“I have pretty minimal criteria when it comes sharing a shower with someone…”

A brief image of sharing a wash rack with Sunstreaker flashed across Sideswipe’s HUD. He quickly shut it down and sat at the table, Sunstreaker followed suit.

“I was told that my date was some smart, beautiful successful artist”.

“All of which I am, Sideswipe," Sunstreaker said, smiling as the menu lit up on the table.

Sunstreaker was not wrong. Sideswipe knew that Sunstreaker was consistently in the media, showing off his artwork and beautiful frame. Sideswipe had noticed the famous artist, only meeting him briefly at an art gallery.

Sideswipe scanned Sunstreaker’s frame like he had done. Sunstreaker’s physique looked strong, which caused Sideswipe to wonder how much muscle he had. This led to the shower image popping up in his HUD again. But Sideswipe tried to delete the image and he knew he couldn’t let Sunstreaker know about that.

“So... What do we do now?” Sideswipe asked, breaking the silence.

“Well. We have two options we could end the date here. Or order” Sunstreaker suggested as the menu showed all the bar drinks selection.

“Let’s order,” Sideswipe said, “because I believe the tab is being paid by my idiotic mech friend”.

“Oh really. I believe my manager is paying for my half. So, I intend to excessively spend a large number of credits”, Sunstreaker opened the menu, “I intend to have a bottle of the bar’s finest high-grade and a minimum of three specialized cubes”.

“Sounds like a plan” Sideswipe commented. Sunstreaker paused the menu.

“Do you want 500 vorn Kaon high-grade or 500 vorn Iaconian high-grade?” Sunstreaker asked, looking at the two most expensive items on the menu.

“The Iaconian, please” Sideswipe replied, as he too scanned the menu.

After selecting their purchases, the menu turned off and Sunstreaker folded his hands under his chin. The server drone placed the high grade on the table with two glasses, it poured the high grade. Then left to serve others.

“So… I think we met before?” Sunstreaker asked, examining his drink.

“We did. A few cycles ago at that Dynasty art gallery. You were showing off some of your pieces” Sideswipe replied.

“All right everyone. It’s Quiz night” A mech announced from the stage. A modicum level of applause came from the tables around them. That was when Sideswipe spotted the small sign on the bar, showing the upcoming activities for the night cycles.

“My manager is so dead” Sunstreaker muttered. Sideswipe didn’t say anything as he was plotting the demise of his idiotic mech friend.

“We’ll start the event by confirming your team names".

The screen on the table lit up along with a keyboard. Then a message popped up on Sideswipe’s HUD.

:Try to enjoy the date - he asked to be set up with you. Don't let him know that you know:

It was from Sideswipe’s idiotic mech friend.

Sideswipe was a little shocked, Sunstreaker had asked to be set up with him. They only met briefly once. Sideswipe heard a beep and watched the screen plus keyboard disappear.

“What did you type?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker shrugged “You’ll see”.

The host announced the other teams before he finally got to theirs.

“Let's welcome our final team -Blind Date”.

Sideswipe felt that all optics were on him, and he wanted to hide under the table. Sunstreaker was smirking.

“What in the pit!”

“Oh, come on. It is a blind date” Sunstreaker argued. Sideswipe stayed silent as the lights dimmed to make a more romantic atmosphere.

“Everyone ready your buzzers”.

“Hey. Let’s make the game more interesting” Sunstreaker suggested.

“How so?” Sideswipe asked, looking intrigued.

“Let’s keep score of which of us can come up with the most answers first? A separate little competition between you and I?”.

Sunstreaker’s optics glowed in the dim light as he smirked. It took a few seconds for Sideswipe to say anything.

“If I agree. What does the winner get?”.

"Winner gets to ask the other for a favour." He leaned back, folding his arms across his chest. "Any. Favour."

“That sounds fair. I agree”

The server topped up the high grade in their drinks as the first question appeared on the table screen.

Sideswipe scoffed, as an easy question was displayed on the screen “Who is the holder of the matrix?”

Sideswipe was about to answer but Sunstreaker blurted out “Alpha Trion”.

Then with a sly wink, he said.

“Sunstreaker one. Sideswipe zero”.

“We’ll see about that,” Sideswipe said. Then the screen changed to display another question “What is the city of Crystal City famous for?”.

“The crystal garden” Sideswipe answered before Sunstreaker could. Back and forth, they answered questions they knew until, finally, they reached the end of the night and the final question:

“Name three ingredients that can be used in energon treats”.

“Oh, I know this one” Sunstreaker commented.

“Gold flakes, Magnesium, and Copper” Sideswipe answered. With the quiz finished, the host returned to the stage.

“Thank you for joining us for another night of trivia! The winners are the team “Blind Date”.

“We did it” Sideswipe cried. He stood up and so overcome by the joy of their victory, grabbed Sunstreaker in a celebratory hug. Sideswipe was surprised when Sunstreaker hugged him back. This is when he realized who he was hugging and promptly pulled away.

“Sorry. I got a little too overexcited”.

“To the winning team. Two cubes of our house special” The host announced. The severing drone placed two cubes of bright blue high-grade that let off little sparks.

“Thanks” Sideswipe eagerly brought the cube to his lips.

“How about I let you drink my cube? It may make you feel better about losing our bet” Sunstreaker said. Sideswipe looked confused before he looked down at the screen that had kept a tally.

Sunstreaker: 9

Sideswipe: 8

“Fine, a deal’s a deal. What is your favour” Sideswipe asked.

“I want a second date” Sunstreaker’s gaze was piercing and unfaltering. He was serious.

He wanted to appear confident and not look like he was surprised that Sunstreaker would want to go on a second date.

“Name the time and place,” Sideswipe said, smiling. Sunstreaker grabbed Sideswipe's hand and threaded their fingers together.

“I look forward to it”, Sunstreaker said, “I’ll comm you”.

Then Sunstreaker kissed Sideswipe on the cheek, then he left the bar. Sideswipe was left alone at the table, wondering what the next date with Sunstreaker would be like.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker sat alone in the Ark rec room drinking his afternoon ration while trying to do a patrol report. He was being distracted by the Autobots chatting on about what they received for Valentine's Day and Sunstreaker was calculating the number of ways to kill some of them, particularly the very loud ones cough Tracks cough.

It wasn’t as Sideswipe had pointed out that Sunstreaker had been single for a few years. Or it wasn’t because Valentine’s Day was a human tradition that had become commercial. Or the special day made everybody happy which annoyed Sunstreaker even more. Sunstreaker slightly jumped in his seat at the sound of a voice clearing.

Sunstreaker re-focused his optics and pushed all thoughts of Valentine’s Day out of his helm. He looked ahead to see Sideswipe standing with his own energon ration in his hand.

“What do you want?” Sunstreaker demanded.

“To sit” Sideswipe replied. Then he sat down, next to Sunstreaker. Sunstreaker put down his stylus pen and glared at his twin. Sideswipe shifted away to give Sunstreaker some space.

“Go away Sideswipe. I’m busy” Sunstreaker said, crossing his arms.

“No. I'm here because it's Valentine's Day and—" Sideswipe began.

“Six hundred and thirty-seven" Sunstreaker interrupted.

“Say What!” Sideswipe exclaimed, looking a little shocked.

“That’s how many ways I can kill someone with my bare hands. I've spent the last fifteen minutes calculating all the ways I can offline someone who starts talking about Valentine's Day" Sunstreaker explained, flexing his hands.

Sideswipe knew if any other Autobot heard that they would be very uncomfortable and leave the sullen golden twin alone. Instead, Sideswipe just smirked.

“That sounds a little hostile,” Sideswipe said, smiling testing his luck and Sunstreaker’s patience.

“Maybe I am” Sunstreaker snapped back, his hands curling into fists.

“Easy Sunny. Don’t want Prowl to throw you in the brig on such a special day”. Sunstreaker growled and asked again.

“What do you want?”.

“A chance to show you that Valentine's Day isn't horrible" Sideswipe replied.

“And how might you prove that?” Sunstreaker asked.

“I was thinking of dinner and a movie. With all your favourite energon treats” Sideswipe answered, smiling encouragingly.

“Does that mean you made my favourite gold flake energon treats?” Sunstreaker asked, sounding hopeful and trying not to smile.

“I might have,” Sideswipe said, smiling knowing that he was slowly wining his twin over. Sunstreaker stared at him as Sideswipe smiled.

“Are you serious?” Sunstreaker asked, not believing what his twin was asking for.

“Yes, I am,” Sideswipe leaned in closer, “So will you accept my invitation despite your dislike for this human tradition?”

The next word came out easier than he'd expected "Yes."

“Then I’ll see you tonight at nineteen hundred hours at our quarters,” Sideswipe said smiling, “Don’t be late”.

Then Sideswipe finished his ration and left for his shift. Sunstreaker felt a smile, tug at his lip plates as he quickly finished his report and energon before leaving for his next shift.

Chapter Text

“You asked, I told you." Sideswipe pursed his lips, placing his half-finished cube on the table. Bluestreak looked like he was being stabbed. Slowly. Bluestreak quickly looked around the rec room trying to find someone else to talk to but at that time of the night cycle, only a select few Autobots were awake.

“Nobody needs to hear that sort of thing. Nobody. Why do you always tell me these things” Bluestreak wailed. He rubbed his audios and tried to delete what Sideswipe had said.

“You know why. It’s all your own fault”.

“How is it my fault?” Bluestreak keened. Sideswipe gave him a look and then said.

“You were the one that discovered us”.

“And I wish I hadn’t,” Bluestreak said. Recalling the incident very clearly.

Many millennia ago, on Cybertron, Bluestreak was patrolling the lower levels of the base and he detected a noise coming from one of the storerooms. Bluestreak being young thought some bot was in trouble and went to investigate, only to see something he shouldn’t.

“I saw you two interfacing in the storeroom,” Bluestreak said out loud. Sideswipe quickly shushed him, giving Bluestreak a warning glare.

“But you didn’t tell anyone” Sideswipe pointed out.

“I couldn’t. Sunstreaker threatened me. He told me how he would deactivate my vocalizer in detail. And rip off my doorwings. While you stood there doing nothing”.

“Well, you did confess to me that you liked my brother,” Sideswipe said, then taking a sip from his drink.

“That was before I know you two were intimate. And he threatened me” Bluestreak added. Bluestreak recalled the first time, he had met the handsome golden frontliner and his twin. Sunstreaker was unapproachable to the young mech, but Bluestreak wanted to try. He developed a crush and told one of his friends. It soon spread around the base in quick whispers, which led to Sideswipe confronting Bluestreak about it.

“Anyway, do you think Sunstreaker is being romantic?” Sideswipe asked.

“How? I don’t believe so. Sunstreaker want to- to,” Bluestreak stuttered on the unsavory details before settling on, “Cover you in sweet energon and–".

“Have his wicked way with me," Sideswipe supplied helpfully.

 “And it's Sunstreaker. Just kill me now”.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

“Just pretend to be my date”.

Sideswipe continued his insistent poking on Sunstreaker’s arm but he was annoyingly uninterested in the situation. To be honest, Sideswipe only had met the famous artist a few times and seemed to at least chat civilly with him.

“I don’t bring dates to these sorts of occasions, Sideswipe. It would completely ruin my image of the ‘mysterious handsome artist” I’ve worked so hard to build” Sunstreaker explained. Then he took a sip from his energon flute.

Sideswipe watched as Silverstreak set his sights on him. Silverstreak waved in recognition and began his way over to where they stood at the bar. Sideswipe gripped Sunstreaker’s arm, ignoring Sunstreaker’s growl to let him go.

“Please! Please Sunstreaker. I’m desperate”.

Sunstreaker suddenly turned to face him and the unexpected loss of Sunstreaker’s body mass under Sideswipe’s hands caused him to stumble. Sunstreaker caught him before Sideswipe could inflict bodily harm upon himself or their glasses of energon.

Sideswipe looked at Sunstreaker’s piercing dark blue optics, almost the same shade as his. Sideswipe for a moment was lost in them until he remembered that he needed Sunstreaker to pretend to be his date. For at least long enough for Silverstreak to call off his pursuit and find a new target.

Every event was almost the same. Sideswipe showed up dateless or not and he spent the event bouncing around different groups of people. It was an effort to avoid Silverstreak but the mech managed to catch him and either try to flirt or made Sideswipe’s dates do not continue see him. Or Sideswipe became too busy hiding from the mech to flirt with anyone else.

Sideswipe realized that he had been resting in Sunstreaker’s arms for far too long. Sideswipe adjusted himself upright and felt his hands leave smudges on the famous artist’s armour.

“So? Will you, do it?” Sideswipe displayed the most grotesquely pleading pout that he could muster.

“Not until you tell me what’s in it for me, Sideswipe” Sunstreaker eyed him curiously, taking another swig of his drink. His optics were slightly lit with amusement.

Sideswipe peaked over his shoulder to see that he had gained a few minutes, thanks to a femme called Luna. Sideswipe owed her big time, she seemed to have stopped Silverstreak for a chat. This brought him at least a few minutes. Now, how could he bribe Sunstreaker to help him?

“I’ll... I’ll give you a massive discount on any materials you buy from me”.

“Does it look like I can’t afford anything” Sunstreaker snapped, looking insulted. Sideswipe took a step back and thought of something else.

“I’ll introduce you to an oil house owner that has the best services in the city” Sideswipe offered.

“No thanks I have my own place,” Sunstreaker said, taking a sip from his drink.

“Then what do you want?” Sideswipe asked, running out of ideas. Sunstreaker’s lips curved into a smirk and he closed the distance between them as if he had a secret to tell that only Sideswipe should hear.

“When I wanted to know what would be in this for me, I wasn't exactly thinking about... events like this”.

Sideswipe was confused, what would the famous artist want?

“Then what do you want?” Sideswipe asked again, feeling the bar dig into his back plates. Sunstreaker maintained their closeness.

“I was thinking more along the lines of… tonight”.

“Oh, Primus. He's back on the move. Great, okay. I'll help you tonight” Sideswipe said, noticing that Silverstreak was coming closer.

“I'm not sure you're understanding me, Sideswipe".

Sideswipe felt a sudden chill as Sunstreaker reached out and placed a finger under his chin, it was gentle but assertive. Sideswipe could have easily pulled away, but he couldn’t because he had forgotten how to move his helm.  Sideswipe couldn’t move as he noticed that Sunstreaker’s optics glowed more brightly than before. Sideswipe couldn’t look away.

“Tonight. My apartment".

Silverstreak was mere meters away.

“Okay,” Sideswipe said, his vocalizer quivering. Sideswipe decided not to analyze the fact that spending a night with Sunstreaker was currently the better option than dealing with Silverstreak. It was a much better choice, it wasn’t even a contest in Sideswipe’s mind. Sunstreaker used his grip on Sideswipe’s chin to bring him closer.

“Anything I ask from you… Do you agree?”.

“Sideswipe” Silverstreak called. Only a single bot stood between him and Sideswipe’s spot at the bar.

“Sunstreaker, Please!” Sideswipe whispered while begging.

Sunstreaker smiled and dropped his hand from Sideswipe’s chin and snaked his arm around him. Sideswipe was surprised that Sunstreaker would touch him like this. He turned them so that they were facing the approaching Silverstreak.

“Hey! Glad I found you- that femme started talking to me about organic trade materials. My date ditched me tonight, so I thought I’d come and find you. To buy you a drink” Silverstreak said in a rush. Then Silverstreak noticed how close Sunstreaker the famous artist was standing next to Sideswipe.

“Sideswipe already has a drink. But I’ll take another one if you’re offering” Sunstreaker’s stare was focused as if he was challenging Silverstreak to make an attempt to take Sideswipe away. Sunstreaker tightens his grip on Sideswipe, making Sideswipe shiver.

“Oh. Looks like I’m too late. Perhaps another time, Sideswipe?”.

“Actually, I think Sideswipe’s drinks are sorted for the next few events. Possibly more, if he’s feeling extra helpful tonight” Sunstreaker said. Silverstreak first looked confused, as if he wanted to say something then decided against it. To Sideswipe’s relief, Silverstreak bade his goodbyes and sauntered away. He made sure to stay away from Luna as he exited the event.

Sideswipe expected Sunstreaker to remove his arm, instead, he left it there. Using his free hand, he passed over a flute of energon to Sideswipe.

“So.. tonight?” Sideswipe asked, inquisitive about what Sunstreaker had in store for him.

“You have no idea what you’ve signed up for, Sideswipe,” Sunstreaker said smiling deviously. Sideswipe took a swig of his drink, a little nervous about what would happen tonight.

Chapter Text

It had been thirty earth minutes and despite the twins yelling and pounding. None of the crew members had come to their rescue.

Sideswipe had tried to rewire the keypad but only ended up, making the situation worse. Sunstreaker had tried to punch a hole through the door, which was not successful. Due to Sideswipe’s attempts at hacking the lock, a small electrical fire started, causing water to rain down on their helms.

“Seriously I thought you were better than this” Sunstreaker yelled as water pelted down.

“Well, your methods weren’t working” Sideswipe snapped.

As they argued, a sprinkling drizzle showered upon them, drenching them bit by bit.

“This is just, the pits” Sunstreaker stated.

“Tell me about it,” Sideswipe said.

Sideswipe recalled the events that led to them being stuck in a storage room. Sideswipe had pulled another successful prank, he painted the minibots pink and covered them with glitter bombs. The resulting mess had led Sideswipe to be punished by Prowl to clean the mess and clean all the empty storerooms.

The minibots particularly Cliffjumper and Brawn were not happy with Sideswipe’s punishment. They decided to take matters into their own hands. However, Sunstreaker learned of their plot and attacked them. Both minis were now in Ratchet’s tender care, while Sunstreaker sorted through, a select number of dusty storerooms. Thanks to Prowl.

 Sideswipe wiped the water off his face, as Sunstreaker crunched under a desk. Sideswipe recalled how this all started. He approached the last empty storeroom to be cleaned, only to find an annoyed and dirty Sunstreaker inside. Who had shouted at him ‘Don’t let that door close behind you’.

Sideswipe entered just as Sunstreaker said those words, trapping them both inside. Of course, being the argumentative pair they were, had screamed and snapped at each other.

“Sunny”

“What” Sunstreaker snapped.

“Have you tried your comms?” Sideswipe asked.

“I have” Sunstreaker answered but said no more. Sideswipe sighed and tried his own comms to find that most of the crew had left to deal with a Decepticon attack.

“Great. How much trouble do you think we are in now” Sideswipe asked. Knowing that Prowl would be annoyed that the twins were not present at the battle.

“I don’t want to know,” Sunstreaker said. Then the door opened and Red Alert’s voice came over their comms.

“Get moving. The base is being attacked”.

“Yes Sir” chorused the twins. They raced out of the storeroom, to the entrance of the Ark. Where a group of Deception soldiers were firing. They weren’t for long as the twins, entered the fray.

Chapter Text

Well, this had been the stupidest, worst decision Sideswipe had ever made in his long life. Sideswipe’s left arm ached, his aim was off, and he was leaking energon onto the sandy floor. On the other hand, Sideswipe’s opponent was still standing even though they too were leaking energon from various wounds that Sideswipe had inflicted.

 “You can’t win, weak twin”.

Sideswipe shook his helm, trying to get his aim to refocus. The crowd of gladiators were eagerly cheering or taking bets on which one of them would win. This was supposed to be a training match between Sideswipe and Crusher, a fellow gladiator. However, Sideswipe knew his opponent Crusher was determined to get rid of him to try and win favour of the deadly golden twin, Sunstreaker.

Crusher attacked Sideswipe again, successfully kneeing Sideswipe in the gut. Poor Sideswipe doubled over, letting Crusher grab his helm horns. Sideswipe screamed as one of his helm horns was torn off, and energon splattered down. Sideswipe punched Crusher, wildly which made him back off. Sideswipe wiped the energon away from his optics.

A very loud yell announced the arrival of the deadly golden twin, Sunstreaker.

“What in the pit is going on here?”.

Sideswipe stopped in his tracks, allowing Crusher to punch him. Sideswipe fell backwards, slamming into the dirty sandy floor.

“Just a training match, Sunstreaker,” Crusher said, wiping the energon off his hand.

“It's not”, came a voice in the crowd, “These two are fighting over you”.

Sunstreaker walked over to his twin, ignoring Crusher. Sunstreaker held out his hand, letting Sideswipe grab it and hurl himself up.

“Is this true?” Sunstreaker asked, letting go of Sideswipe’s hand.

Sideswipe was about to answer. However, Crusher said something first.

“Yes. I thought we'd settle it once and for all”.

“What?”

“That Sideswipe is not worthy of you,” Crusher said.

“And you are?” Sunstreaker questioned, stepping away from Sideswipe.

“Yes,” Crusher admitted. Then Sunstreaker struck, and Crusher ended up on the sandy floor, offline with a large dent on his faceplate. Sunstreaker turned to his twin.

“And what have you got to say for yourself?".

“I’m an aft,” Sideswipe said, swaying on his peds. The loss of his fluids was making him dizzy. Sunstreaker moved closer, grabbing his twin as he lost balance.

“At least you're my favourite aft" Sunstreaker muttered. Then he led Sideswipe out of the training room to heal his injured twin.

Chapter Text

“Sides I’m home” called Sunstreaker entering their apartment but the first thing that met him was not Sideswipe greeting him back, but a beautiful femme. However, the femme looked like she had just come out of the wash racks because she was leaving a trail of water on the floor and she had a towel wrapped around her.

“Um Hi” greeted the femme with blushing cheeks. Before Sunstreaker could say anything Sideswipe exited out of the wash racks dripping wet and had a towel wrapped around his waist, covering his pelvic area.

“Sunny your home. How was your date” asked Sideswipe.

“Um. Yours seems to have been more eventful than mine” Sunstreaker managed to say while in shock to see his brother in such a state.

“You didn’t tell me you had a date tonight,” said Sunstreaker directing his gaze to the beautiful femme between them.

“Yeah, funny how this happened. Jade and I ran into each other, and one thing led to another,” said Sideswipe.

“Where did you run into each other?  In our shower” snorted Sunstreaker glaring at his twin and his companion.

“And the couch,” said Sideswipe then he cleared his throat, “Um spur of the moment sort of thing”

“Sideswipe can I have a word with you? Alone if possible” Sunstreaker asked tilting his helm to their kitchen area.

“Right. Jade, Sweetspark will you excuse me for a moment,” said Sideswipe. Sunstreaker turned on his ped and walked off to the kitchen.

“ I.. um.. Sorry. I’ll go dry off” said Jade ducking back inside the wash racks while Sideswipe walked over to the kitchen where Sunstreaker stood not looking very happy.

“Sideswipe what in the pit” Sunstreaker asked as soon as Sideswipe entered the kitchen area and the door to the wash racks was closed.

“What do you mean? Are you mad at me? Am I not allowed to have company over?” Sideswipe asked in rapid succession as Sunstreaker glared at him.

“Did you interface with her?” asked Sunstreaker.

“What? Was I not allowed to” snapped Sideswipe glaring right back at his twin.

“Answer the question Sideswipe. Did you interface with her” repeated Sunstreaker. Sideswipe sneered at Sunstreaker for a moment before he muttered.

“Yes”

“Where” hissed Sunstreaker.

“You know where” Sideswipe countered.

“It’s a simple question you slagger. Where in our apartment did you interface with her”

“In the wash racks and on the couch” answered Sideswipe.

“For the love of Primus Sideswipe. You can’t keep doing this” shouted Sunstreaker.

“Why? Am I not allowed to meet my needs in my own apartment? Is this because you didn’t interface with your date tonight” yelled Sideswipe right back.

“That’s not the point. And you know it”, Sunstreaker shouted, “ The point is you’re interfacing with others in areas we share. If it isn’t on the couch. It’s in the kitchen area. And if it isn’t that it’s up against the wall in our entertainment area. Do you know how much that annoys me? And how much mess you leave. Why can’t you do me a favour and interface in the berth like a normal mech”

Sideswipe took a step back and looked down at his peds. He was quiet for a short few minutes. However, Sunstreaker was not done.

“What the pit is the matter with you? Why aren’t you saying something” shouted Sunstreaker. Sideswipe inhaled sharply and said.

“But I don’t want to interface in my berth”.

“Why not? That’s where it’s supposed to be done” snapped Sunstreaker.

“Never mind. I don’t want to talk about it” deflected Sideswipe, who tried to make his way past Sunstreaker but was blocked by Sunstreaker’s bulk.

“I don’t care if you want to talk about it. You’re going to tell me because if you’re going to interface with others in the same area where I prepare my energon. I deserve to know why” demanded Sunstreaker.

“Interfacing in my berth is too private”.

“What do you mean too private? Are you an exhibitionist?” asked Sunstreaker getting closer to Sideswipe and placing his fingers on Sideswipe's chest plate, very painfully.

“No, because you recharge in my berth, alright,” answered Sideswipe, “ I don’t want others in there. Happy?”

“Oh” commented Sunstreaker feeling a little surprised because that was not what he expected at all.

This was the most irrational and outrageous argument they had ever had. There Sunstreaker was having come to their apartment from a bad date and Sideswipe dripping wet with a towel covering his pelvic area. And here they were arguing about where interfacing activities were allowed because Sideswipe valued recharging together in the same berth as more intimate than interfacing with a stranger.

“Sideswipe. Our relationship is so full of slag. Isn’t it” stated Sunstreaker.

“Yeah it is,” agreed Sideswipe, “ But there you go. Now you know. If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to join Jade in the wash racks. And I will not interface her into our furniture” promised Sideswipe. Then he walked away leaving Sunstreaker to stare at Sideswipe’s retreating back.  

Chapter Text

For twenty cycles Sunstreaker had been coming to this small little cafe at the same time. For those twenty cycles, Sunstreaker would overstay his welcome drinking his sweet energon and eating his slice of oil cake till past closing time. Despite the owner Sideswipe’s many reminders that he closes his café at a certain time.

Sunstreaker took his usual spot near the back of the café, in a booth with a large window showing the outside. Sunstreaker would take out his sketch pad from his subspace as Sideswipe served customers. A server would ask Sunstreaker his order while he watched Sideswipe cut a slice of oil cake.

Sideswipe watched Sunstreaker with curious optics as the server took the slice of oil cake and sweet energon to Sunstreaker’s booth.

“Keep looking at me like that”, Sunstreaker warned as he casually sipped his drink, “See what happens”.

Sideswipe raised his optic ridge to that then narrowed his optics, a mischievous smirk graced his lips. Sideswipe cut another piece of oil cake and placed it on a plate. Sideswipe walked over, keeping in Sunstreaker’s range.

“Don’t think you can come in here and…”

Sideswipe’s words were cut off as in one swift motion Sunstreaker moved aside his sweet energon and cake. He grabbed Sideswipe by the shoulder, pulling him closer and crashing their lips together. Slowly Sunstreaker loosened his grip on Sideswipe’s shoulder, gently placing his hand on the back of Sideswipe’s neck cables.

Sideswipe was stunned, briefly. Then he returned the kiss with the same passion as Sunstreaker. Suddenly Sideswipe realised he was kissing Sunstreaker and made his senses come crashing down on him. Sideswipe placed his hands on either side of Sunstreaker’s broad shoulders, then shoved him away.

Sideswipe grabbed a napkin and wiped his lips. His optics burning with a mixture of rage and desire. Sunstreaker looked smug and he stood straight, towering over Sideswipe by a few inches. However, Sideswipe stood up straighter, even if the golden mech was taller than him. Sideswipe’s vocalizer was quivering in anger as he said.

“How dare you maneuver me like that… Who do you think….”.

Again, Sunstreaker’s lips cut him off, but this kiss was not as rough. This time Sunstreaker pulled Sideswipe flush against his frame, wrapping one golden arm around Sideswipe’s waist. The other is around Sideswipe’s shoulders. Sideswipe melted into the handsome golden mech, running his hands over the strong golden frame. They both moaned as the kiss deepened before a loud whistle interrupted them.

Sunstreaker pulled away, snatching the slice of oil cake from the table that Sideswipe had placed it on.

“See Sideswipe, I told you something would happen”.

Then Sunstreaker walked away, carrying his plate with a slice of oil cake as Sideswipe watched him completely dumbfounded.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• This is a sequel to Terminal Interactions.
• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

“Well, Hello Sunstreaker. Fancy seeing you here”.

Sunstreaker looked up from his energon flute, to see the handsome red, white, and black mech from the terminal. Sunstreaker had managed to find a nice quiet spot in a pleasant bar. The crowd wasn’t too rowdy and the design of the place, caught his artistic nature.

"What makes you think I came here because of you?" Sunstreaker said from over the rim of his flute of high grade.

“It is my bar."

Sunstreaker looked shocked for a brief moment. Sunstreaker had managed to find the mysterious business mech of all places in his own bar.

“Really. Then I’m impressed” Sunstreaker said. Sideswipe smiled and gestured to ask if he could sit down, Sunstreaker obliged with a flick of his helm.

“Oh. Why is that?” Sideswipe asked as a server placed a cube of purple high-grade in front of him.

“You have great taste” Sunstreaker replied.

“I’ll take the compliment. I had a little help with the design. Through the idea was mine” Sideswipe said.

“You know. You never told me your designation when we last met”.

“I’m Sideswipe. And I know who you are”.

Sideswipe smirked as Sunstreaker gave him a faint smile in return.

"And I'm supposed to be keeping track of your whereabouts?" Sunstreaker said, swirling the energon in his flute.

“Well, I had hoped that I left an impression from our last meeting” Sideswipe replied, casually.

“Maybe,” Sunstreaker said, placing his now empty flute on the table between them. The booth was quite cozy and Sunstreaker felt his legs come in close contact with Sideswipe’s under the table.

“But then. I’m on vacation. How was I supposed to know such a nice and respectable place would be owned by a business mech from Kaon? Seems rather unlikely to me”.

“If you’re implying that I do shady dealings. I don’t. I run a legit business” Sideswipe said, withdrawing his legs from Sunstreaker’s.

“Well, we both come from Kaon. The city of criminals” Sunstreaker said, acknowledging the one thing they had in common. Well, that and the armour that was built for protection.

“I demand to see the owner of this establishment”.

Sideswipe looked to the bar to see Tracks, yelling at the bartender.

“How did he get in?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Excuse me Sunshine,” Sideswipe said, “Duty calls”.

Sideswipe sauntered over to the bar, where Tracks stood.

“Can I provide some service?”

“You” Tracks said, pointing to Sideswipe, “You’re the owner”.

“Yes”.

“Your staff are slagging incompetent” Tracks began.

“How so?” Sideswipe asked.

Tracks was stunned for a moment, no one had ever interrupted him before.

“I’ll tell you this. I hire the best staff for my business. It seems that you are the one with a problem”.

“I am not” Tracks snapped.

“You have been rude and disrespectful to my staff. Considering your attitude. I will ask you to leave”.

“You can not ask me to leave! I am a respectable citizen!”.

“From what I have seen. I don’t think so” Sunstreaker said, approaching the pair, “Tracks. Unless you want me to tell the entire upper society about your behaviour in this situation. I suggest that you quietly leave”.

Tracks looked at the famous artist, knowing that he spoke the truth. Tracks clenched his fists and stormed out of the bar.

“You know, life with you is never boring,” Sunstreaker said, watching Tracks walk away.

“I hope that is a good thing,” Sideswipe said as Sunstreaker turned to face him.

“May I offer my customer a drink on the house”.

“You may, but only if you join me,” Sunstreaker said. Then he walked over to the booth they had been sitting at before. Sideswipe followed him. Drinks were served to the pair of them, and they spent the night cycle talking.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker hated parties, especially the ones hosted by the Autobots. Everyone was already overcharged and dancing so badly it made Sunstreaker cringe. This was not his idea of a good time. If Sunstreaker was honest, he hated parties in general. They were in a middle of a war for Primus’s sake. To make matters worst the displays of affection were nauseating but the overcharged behaviour sometimes brought a faint smile to his lips. However, Sunstreaker suffered through each of these events to keep his twin happy. That was the only reason that Sunstreaker would admit publicly if asked but privately he only came so that he could watch his twin.

Sideswipe came alive at parties, he was so popular with the crew. This made Sunstreaker jealous as he watched countless mechs or femmes interact with his twin. Sunstreaker desired his twin but could never say that to his faceplate. So Sunstreaker attended the parties alone, watching his twin before leaving with Sideswipe draped over his frame.

“You look positively miserable Sunshine. You know you don't have to stay right?".

Sunstreaker looked at the mech beside him, standing close but not to close. If only Sunstreaker had the option to leave, but he wouldn’t because that would leave his twin exposed.

“And if I left, Sideswipe would whine about it for cycles” Sunstreaker said, as Sideswipe happily waved at him from the dancefloor.

The mech snickered. "Well, that's the risk you take right?".

Sunstreaker sipped from the cube of high grade he held in his servos.

“I just can’t understand why others think this is fun and relaxing. It’s disgusting and it ruins one’s armour” Sunstreaker said, dodging a femme that got to close.

“That’s because your wires are too tight. You need to relax dear brother of mine”.

Sunstreaker looked to his left to see Sideswipe walking towards him, with two cubes of high grade.

“Sideswipe’s here”.

“Then you can frag off” Sunstreaker snarled.

“I’ll take the hint. Just make sure that you two don't get caught when you leave”. The mech wandered off to join the crowd.

“Sideswipe” Sunstreaker greeted as he took one of the cubes of high grade.

“Sunny”. Sunstreaker growled at the nickname but sipped his drink.

“What was that mech on about?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker shrugged his shoulders. "Never know with that one," he said.

“What” Sideswipe shouted, “I can't hear you!".

“I said. Never know with that one” Sunstreaker repeated.

Sideswipe mimed that he still couldn't hear a word that Sunstreaker was saying, which caused him to cross his arms and glare at his twin. A sudden heat next to his helm vent made Sunstreaker shiver.

“You give up quickly Sunny,” Sideswipe said before biting the edge of Sunstreaker’s helm vent.

“Sides” Sunstreaker jumped away, nearly spilling his drink. Sunstreaker turned his body to his twin. With the music blaring and the crowd distracted. Sunstreaker suddenly felt like doing something bold as the high grade coursed through his frame. Sunstreaker dropped a quick kiss on Sideswipe’s lips before pulling back, looking completely normal.

“Oh Sunny”, Sideswipe whispered, “That’s not a kiss”.

Sideswipe wrapped one arm around Sunstreaker's waist and pulled him alongside into the darkness of a corner of the room. "This is a kiss," he said against Sunstreaker’s faceplate before pulling his frame close against his own.

One hand gripped Sunstreaker’s backplates and the other rested on the back of his helm. Before Sideswipe crashed his lips down to his. Sideswipe begged entrance to Sunstreaker’s mouth with his glossa and Sunstreaker had no choice but to comply. Sideswipe tasted like sin mixed with high grade, but Sunstreaker felt like he was drowning.

Sideswipe broke the kiss just as abruptly as he started it and turned Sunstreaker to face the room of partygoers.

“See you around Sunshine”. Then Sideswipe left him alone, dazed and confused. Sunstreaker watched Sideswipe walk away, then followed him out.

Chapter Text

“I’m going to kill Bluestreak” Sunstreaker announced as he strode into their quarters and draped himself over the couch. Sideswipe looked up from his report, looking at the distraction with a smile. Pushing aside his report Sideswipe leaned back in his chair, propped his peds up onto the desk, and said, "What'd Blue do now?"

Sunstreaker rubbed his helm and exhaled deeply.

“I had to suffer an entire patrol with Bluestreak, chatting like always”.

Sideswipe made a humming sort of sound and indicated for Sunstreaker to continue.

“I wanted to deactivate my audios. I know I’m not supposed to. Thanks to Prowl’s lecture”.

“That’s not all is it” Sideswipe interrupted.

“No. Bluestreak mentioned that he was hoping to see you. His femme friend Bright wanted to see if she could meet you during a break, putting substantial emphasis on the fact that she's very available. And very pretty”.

Sideswipe detected a slight tremble in Sunstreaker’s voice. Sideswipe sighed and pushed away from his desk. He then crossed the room and gently sat down next to his twin.

“I have heard of Bright, and she doesn’t meet up to her name. Bright is the dullest airhead I've ever had the misfortune to meet”.

“You’ve met her before?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Yep, briefly” Sideswipe paused, “I found her, holding a glitch mouse at a party. She asked me if they hired the little things as decorations”.

“She did not” Sunstreaker shuddered, he hated glitch mice. They were disgusting pests.

“Do I need to talk to Bluestreak?” Sideswipe asked reaching over and slung his arm over Sunstreaker’s shoulder. In turn, Sunstreaker sighed and answered.

“No”.

Sunstreaker cast his gaze to an image of the twins and Bluestreak, celebrating after a long battle against the Decepticons. Sunstreaker glared at the permanently beaming mech. Sideswipe snorted.

“If looks could kill… Bluestreak would've died during your patrol”.

“No,” Sunstreaker said, “I would wait until the next battle. And wait until he is behind enemy lines. Then leave him there to be taken”.

“Sunny”.

“And to that airhead Bright. I would find a way to cut her up and send her body parts to Bluestreak” Sunstreaker finished. Sideswipe huffed out a breathy sort of laugh.

"Sounds specific."

"I've given it some consideration,” Sunstreaker said, leaning into Sideswipe’s touch.

“Just remember Blue is very socially connected. Prowl and Jazz like him” Sideswipe stated.

“Don’t remind me. Little suck up” Sunstreaker said, annoyed.

“With Bright though, do as you wish”.

“Sideswipe. You’re not supposed to encourage me” Sunstreaker said.

“Pfftt. I can do whatever I want. If you want to kill a useless femme. I can most certainly provide some help”.

Sunstreaker snorted.

“Remember to not leave any evidence” Sideswipe whispered into Sunstreaker’s helm vent. He turned his helm, facing Sideswipe, matching his tone.

 "Yeah? What if I get caught?".

Sideswipe grinned.

“Then I’ll be your perfect alibi”.

Sunstreaker placed a kiss on his twin’s lips, only to be interrupted by the door chime. Sunstreaker shot a murderous look towards the door as Sideswipe strode over to answer it.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

Pushing his way past the security mechs, Sunstreaker entered the main foyer of the large housing unit, a scowl on his lips. Mode, the new drone that Sideswipe purchased stood in Sunstreaker’s way as he tried to enter the staircase.

“Where is he?” Sunstreaker asked softly, his voice not betraying any sense of his anger.

“Master be in his office, Sir. Coul-" Cutting Mode off, Sunstreaker waved his hand in an obvious dismissal and made his way to Sideswipe’s study.

Storming into the room, Sunstreaker spots his now ex-partner standing in front of the large glass window with his back to the room. One hand steadying himself on the glass, his shoulders were tense, and Sideswipe was gazing out, unseeing at the air traffic flying past. Huffing angrily, Sunstreaker strode forward grabbing Sideswipe’s arm to try to turn him, so they were face to face. However, Sideswipe stood firm but still ended up standing in front of Sunstreaker.

“Why did you break up with me?" Sunstreaker hissed at him as hot air blew out of his vents.

“You know why, Sunstreaker,” Sideswipe said, not looking in Sunstreaker’s direction, “I thought it best that we shouldn’t court each other anymore. You know the reason why”.

“No. I don’t slagging know why you decided to stop courting me. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be here! So, tell me Sideswipe” Sunstreaker said, crossing his arms angrily.

“Why do you keep pestering me about this? I don’t have the patience for this” Sideswipe asked, rapidly. Then he closed his optics and countered to 10, letting out a loud sigh and relaxing his stance.

“I don’t care. I need answers. You just left me, 10 cycles ago with no contact. I have been calling, and messaging you constantly. And you never reply” Sunstreaker shouted.

“Sunstreaker. Leave me alone! Go away!" Sideswipe ordered, turning away. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe walked away to his desk. Sunstreaker followed him, shouting.

“NO! YOU CAN'T MAKE ME LEAVE”.

“YES, I can. I can call security here to escort you out” Sideswipe interrupted. Then he went to his side of the desk, creating space between them.

“I DON’T CARE. I WANT TO KNOW WHY WE ARE NO LONGER COURTING” Sunstreaker finished.

“It doesn’t matter why. All you should know is that we are no longer courting. That is all”.

“THAT IS NOT ALL”.

Then Sunstreaker grabbed an object from Sideswipe’s desk, he hurled it at Sideswipe who moved out of the way.

“Hey, that was my favourite decanter”.

They both watched as the decanter soared through the air and crashed against the wall. The premium high-grade splashing onto the surface where cracks were spread out from the impact. Some of the high-grade flowed down onto the metal floor.

“Why would you throw that? It was a beautiful decanter” Sideswipe asked, looking at the mess.

“BECAUSE I NEED ANSWERS AND I WON’T LEAVE UNTIL YOU DO”.

Sideswipe tried not to think about the older-than- the current Prime high grade that Sunstreaker just wasted. Sideswipe ignored the knocking at the door as a furious artist leaned over his desk, trying to grab Sideswipe. He leaned back just as Sunstreaker gripped air instead of Sideswipe’s armour.

“TELL ME WHY WE ARE NO LONGER COURTING”.

Sunstreaker paused as Sideswipe just stared at him.

“I WON’T LEAVE UNTIL YOU ANSWER ME” Sunstreaker shouted. Then he reached forward again but then he slumped over slamming his faceplate into Sideswipe’s desk.

“Thanks, S5678”.

The security drone had fired his taser at Sunstreaker, causing an electrical charge to flow through his frame.

“Escort our guest, outside. And remove his access to my residence” Sideswipe ordered.

“Yes Sir”.

“And ask a cleaning drone to get in here and clean up the mess our former guest has left” Sideswipe ordered.

“Yes Sir”.

Sideswipe watched as Sunstreaker was carried out of his office by three security drones.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sunstreaker is a famous artist.
• Sideswipe is a business mech.

Sideswipe was sitting on the worn couch, admiring Sunstreaker’s latest painting. However, the famous artist was nowhere in sight. Sideswipe sighed, Sunstreaker had invited him over to go out to an exclusive restaurant for the elite. Sideswipe had on purpose arrived a little earlier because sometimes Sunstreaker got a little caught up in his work. However when Sideswipe arrived, the servants let him in and Sideswipe wandered down to the studio, hoping to find the famous artist. Sideswipe discovered that the famous artist was nowhere to be seen. However, a finished portrait was standing in the centre of the room.

 Sideswipe was surprised that the portrait was himself and the famous artist in an embrace under the fluorescent lights at a particular pink party that had previously attended. Sideswipe smirked at the pink sash that clashed horribly with Sunstreaker’s golden finish. Through Sideswipe frowned a little at the length of his pink loincloth, it was a little higher than he recalled.

Sideswipe was startled out of his thoughts by a sentence of cuss words rang out, followed by “Slagging cake!”.

Sideswipe with an impish grin on his face plate, headed toward the noise. Sideswipe was little surprised to find himself outside of the meal preparation area. Sideswipe poked his helm in and saw a tall, golden, extremely annoyed, and covered in oil cake mix, the famous artist Sunstreaker. Sideswipe couldn’t help it. He burst out in laughter at the sight of a messy, annoyed Sunstreaker.

Sunstreaker with rust powder on his olfactory sensor and sticky black oil cake batter all over his once white, clean apron was not much of a threat when he huffed, “Oh SHUT UP, Sideswipe!”.

Still, in a silent giggle fit, Sideswipe choked out, pointing to Sunstreaker’s olfactory sensor.

“You have something right there”.

Sunstreaker almost lost all depth perception as he tried to find the spot of rust powder on his olfactory sensor. Once he located it, Sunstreaker wiped it off with his servo only to leave a smear of oil cake mix instead. Then Sideswipe noticed the pink decorations waiting next to the large mess on the counter.

“Pink?” Sideswipe said questioningly.

Sunstreaker crossed his now black arms over his golden chest plate.

“Well, it's your favourite colour” Sunstreaker said, not looking amused.

“No, I thought it was yours,” Sideswipe said, gently picking up the pink decorations.

Sunstreaker shuffled a little as Sideswipe examined the decorations.

“I guess we now have another thing in common,” Sunstreaker said.

“Sunny. That was already one of the things we have in common. We both hate the colour pink. Are you trying to turn this pink reference into an in-joke between us” Sideswipe asked.

“Maybe” Sunstreaker admitted.

“Please don’t tell me this is all for my creation day”.

“I... Uh… It's not for your creation day” Sunstreaker said, looking a little nervous. Sideswipe smiled knowing that Sunstreaker had lied but he didn’t care. Sideswipe walked over to the famous artist and gently wiped away the smear of oil cake mix on his faceplate. Then Sideswipe gently kissed Sunstreaker on the lips.

“C’mon. Let’s clean this mess up” Sideswipe suggested. Then he licked another smear off Sunstreaker’s shoulder.

“But..” Sunstreaker tried to say. Sideswipe gently led Sunstreaker out of the meal preparation area to the wash racks where Sideswipe thoroughly washed away the mess that Sunstreaker had made of himself.

Chapter Text

Note

• Reference to the 1961 movie ‘Parent Trap’.

Sideswipe entered Smokescreen’s quarters, carrying a tray with several cubes of high grade. Smokescreen had requested that Sideswipe make another batch of high grade as payment for staying in his quarters. The twins had another fight, recently, and as such they were avoiding each other at all costs.

Instead of Smokescreen, Sideswipe saw.

“Sunstreaker” Sideswipe paused as he stared at his twin who was sitting on Smokescreen’s couch.

“What are you doing here?”

Sunstreaker was sitting slouched on the couch with his arms crossed and an angry expression on his faceplate. A half-empty tray of energon treats was on the table, in front of him. Sunstreaker said nothing as Sideswipe stared at him.

“Still giving me the silent treatment, huh? Sunny” Sideswipe said, as Sunstreaker looked directly at him like he didn’t exist.

“Don’t call me that” Sunstreaker hissed, “Smokescreen left”.

“Why are you in here in the first place?” Sideswipe asked, placing the tray of high-grade cubes on the table.

Then they both heard a locking noise. Sideswipe turned around and strode to the door. He attempted to tug it open, but it was locked from the outside.

“It’s locked” Sideswipe exclaimed.

“What!” Sunstreaker stomped over and pushed Sideswipe out of the way. He keyed in the code, but the door stayed shut. Sunstreaker slammed his fist into the door, but it didn’t budge.

“Good idea Sunshine,” Sideswipe said sarcastically, “Just force your way out of an extremely thick steel door”.

“I don’t see you coming up with any ideas” Sunstreaker snapped.

“I’ll just hack it” Sideswipe pulled out a cable and connected it to the keypad. A series of beeps followed before the keypad turned off with a loud shriek.

“What did you just do?” Sunstreaker asked.

“I’m fine Sunny, thanks for asking”.

Sunstreaker glared at his twin.

“I’ve locked us in”.

“Say what” Sunstreaker yelled, “I’m stuck with you! In here!”

“Yep. Smokescreen Parent Trapped Us! But in an enemy’s way," he added as an afterthought.

Sunstreaker didn't know whatever the frag that meant, it probably was some inane human phrase relevant to their situation. He blew hot air out of his vents.

“Obviously," Sunstreaker said, “How long will this last?”

Sideswipe was about to answer but a message appeared on the keyboard screen. Sideswipe read it aloud.

“For 30 earth minutes”.

Sunstreaker stomped off to the couch and sat down. Sideswipe examined the keypad but found that there was nothing he could do, so he strode over to the couch. Sideswipe sat as far away as possible from his twin.

Sideswipe gaped at the tray of energon treats.

“Are those” Sideswipe began as he picked up one energon treat.

“These are my favourite” Sideswipe cried. Then he cocked his helm and gently pushed the tray of high-grade cubes to his twin’s side.

“Are these your favourite flavor of high grade or something?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker begrudgingly picked up a single cube of high grade and examined it. Then he took a sip.

“Praxian grade 6 with gold flakes. That’s” Sunstreaker cleared his vocalizer, “I know this grade”.

“I didn’t know it was one of your favorites” Sideswipe said.

Then Sunstreaker recalled why he didn’t like his twin at the moment. Sunstreaker glanced at the transformer-sized clock on the wall. Only five earth minutes had passed. What on Earth was Sunstreaker supposed to do for the next twenty-five?

Chapter Text

A slender black hand slipped out from between them and slapped at the irritating buzzing that emanated from the device by the berth. A smash was heard as the pieces of the irritating buzzing device was cut off. Then the black hand slid back under the warm gold plating.

“Uh five more astroseconds” one slurred, as optics slowly booted up. However, the device had done its job and the two bots shifted. One long golden leg dropped out off the edge, followed by the other golden leg.

Sunstreaker did not want to get up, he was not a morning person. Sideswipe was used to Sunstreaker’s fumbling monosyllabic ways and always placed a cube of energon in Sunstreaker’s hands. Though sometimes Sideswipe placed the cube to Sunstreaker’s lips, which did shake off the last remnants of recharge.

Sunstreaker thought about going back to recharge but if he wanted to look his best for the day, he had to move. Now.

Sunstreaker sat up, untangling himself from his twin. Sunstreaker leaned forward and started to push himself off the berth, only to be pulled back by two red arms snaking their way around his armour. With a quick tug, Sunstreaker found himself back on the berth.

“Sides” Sunstreaker growled, “Let go”.

“No” came the muttered reply as Sunstreaker felt his neck cables be nuzzled, “It's toooo early”.

“It’s not” Sunstreaker argued, ignoring his twin’s touches.

“I have to get up and clean myself up. I have a reputation to keep”.

“Sunny” Sideswipe whined, “You’re the best-looking Autobot on earth. Everyone knows that”.

Sunstreaker liked hearing Sideswipe say that, allowing him to let Sideswipe pull him back further.

“Stay” Sideswipe whispered, “Stay right here”.

“I can’t. We can’t. We have shifts to attend to” Sunstreaker reasoned. Then he wiggled against the hand that was tracing little circles on his chest plate.

“Let’s just say we have a virus. And spend the cycle in the berth” Sideswipe suggested.

Sunstreaker snorted.

“Yeah. Like that would work. Do you want the Hatchet on our case. Not to mention Prowl when he finds out we lied to neglect our duties”.

Sunstreaker untangled himself from Sideswipe’s grip and tried to escape the berth again. Sunstreaker managed to get both his peds on the floor and was about to stand when Sideswipe tried again to drag his twin back. Sideswipe touched every piece of Sunstreaker’s armour, he could reach. Sideswipe managed to grab one of Sunstreaker's armour pieces and held on.

“Stay. Let’s not care about Prowl or Ratchet”.

Sideswipe cajoled, running his hands over Sunstreaker’s frame. Sunstreaker surrendered due to Sideswipe touching the right spot.

“Will you stay”.

“No,” Sunstreaker said. Then he quickly untangled himself again from Sideswipe and got onto his peds. Sunstreaker quickly moved out of Sideswipe’s reach before Sideswipe could grab him again.

“Not fair!” Sideswipe pouted, flopping against the surface of the berth.

Sunstreaker tried not to laugh, Sideswipe looked so childish.

“Poor sparkling. I’ll make it up to you, tonight. I promise”.

"Why wait for tonight? Just come on back to the berth and all is forgiven” Sideswipe said, gently touching the surface of the berth.

“Uh huh, and when neither of us turns up for rations, or shifts? Or any training sessions?”.

“We both caught the same virus”.

“And what virus would that be?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Something that requires us to stay in the berth”.

Sunstreaker scoffed.

“You know Ratchet would insist we go into quarantine. You’ll be bored”.

“But I’ll have your company. And we could do things on the medical berths” Sideswipe suggested, giving Sunstreaker a suggestive raised optic ridge.

Sunstreaker was about to answer, but the alarm echoed through the base.

“Duty calls”

Both twins grabbed their weapons and rushed out of their quarters as their comms blared with chatter from the other Autobots.

Chapter Text

“Slagging, fragging pit spawns” Sideswipe swore under his breath in a mix of Cybertronian dialects. The price of ingredients had gone up again causing Sideswipe to readjust his budget. He was currently at his desk, with his spreadsheets in front of him. Soon he would have to cut back on the energon treats and goodies he made for his customers at the café he owned. Sideswipe was snapped out of his thoughts about energon prices by a sharp noise.

“Sideswipe!”

Sideswipe looked up to see his twin Sunstreaker looking at him, not amused. The golden twin was glaring directly at him.

“I expect our staff to keep their vocabulary civil. That includes us as well when we are in this workplace. No matter what new idiocy has emanated from the universe”.

Sideswipe did think of replying in a less civil manner, but he knew that he could not upset Sunstreaker who was part owner of their café. Sideswipe wondered why he decided to start a café knowing that he needed a little funding from his brother. Also, Sunstreaker was a control freak and wanted everything to be perfect like himself.

“Sorry bro”, Sideswipe said, “You understood that”.

“Yes, I recognized the dialects because you used some of them in our twin language,” Sunstreaker said.

“Oh Opps,” Sideswipe said while insulting himself for creating the twin language in the first place. Sunstreaker returned to his work, creating another art piece to hang on the café’s walls hoping to sell it for a fair price. Sideswipe also returned to his work, knowing full well that an energon crisis was coming their way.

Chapter Text

Autobots fell around him as Sideswipe ran through the tunnels. Screaming filled his audios along with cries for medics. Bluestreak was just ahead of him, his doorwings twitching as the explosions drew near. Bluestreak tightly gripped his now empty rifle, as Sideswipe threw away his weapon, now empty and could not be reloaded.

The Autobots had lost this battle, the Decepticons had broken through their defenses. All the Autobots were retreating to a safer site.

“Which way is it? I thought it was this way or was it that way” Bluestreak chattered. Sideswipe didn’t know either, he hadn’t been listening when the commander told them where to retreat to.

Bluestreak was covered in dust and specks of dried energon. He searched for an answer but found nothing. Sideswipe was about to say something when a Decepticon appeared in front of Bluestreak. The Deception pointed his weapon at them, smirking on his scruffy faceplate.

“Blue Move” Sideswipe shouted. Sideswipe managed to move fast enough to grab Bluestreak and move away from the blast. The two fell into an open corridor as the blaster fire skimmed over their helms. Sideswipe swiftly rolled over and threw a dagger at the Decepticon who fell offline on the dirty, dusty floor. Sideswipe turned to Bluestreak, who wasn’t moving.

“Blue? Bluestreak?” Sideswipe said, gently shaking him, but still no response.

“Bluestreak”.

Sideswipe shook him more forcefully, but Bluestreak didn’t stir.

“Sideswipe”.

Sideswipe looked up with a dagger in his servo to the Cybertronian that had spoken. Sideswipe almost dropped his weapon at seeing a golden Cybertronian with red optics and a purple insignia on his chest plate.

“Sunstreaker”.

“Your comrade is not offline. Just knocked out” Sunstreaker observed. Sideswipe gave a little sigh of relief but didn’t let go of his weapon.

“Why are you here?” Sideswipe asked. Though a part of him was glad to see Sunstreaker again. Pleased to know that he was alive.

“I’m part of the Decepticon forces being used to eradicate the worthless Autobots” Sunstreaker answered. Sunstreaker stepped closer, Sideswipe wondered what he would do next. Both twins stared at each other as the noise of the battle surrounded them.

“Well. Well. What do we have here?”

The two spun around to see Megatron looming over them. A delighted grin displayed on his lips, dripping with evil.

“Well done, Sunstreaker. We now have two prisoners to play with”.

The Deception leader advanced. Sunstreaker bit his lip plates and looked over to Sideswipe. Their optics were no longer matching. Sideswipe’s blue optics were frightened while Sunstreaker’s red optics were reflecting his confusion. Sunstreaker was in his own battle over what to do, should he stand by his leader or his twin?

A cry of pain from Sideswipe made Sunstreaker’s decision. He stepped in front of his twin, guarding him and stopping Megatron.

“No” Sunstreaker shouted, “I won’t let you harm my twin”.

Sideswipe covered the now gushing wound on his frame with his free servo as he watched the two Decepticons converse. Sunstreaker aimed his charged blaster at the Decepticon leader.

Megatron faulted for a second, clearly taken aback by his fellow gladiator's change of spark.

“I suspected this may happen” Megatron paused to look at the two brothers standing in front of him.

“I thought the gladiatorial pits had taught you that this weakness was wrong. I thought you were a cold sparkless killer. But apparently, I am wrong”.

Megatron toyed with his weapon, obviously contemplating on how to deal with the two gladiators in front of him.

“I saw so much potential in you, Sunstreaker. We're more similar than you think”.

“We are not” Sunstreaker snarled, standing firm. Sideswipe couldn’t believe that Sunstreaker was protecting him. He recalled the argument when Sunstreaker left him to join the Decepticons and the horrible words they had said to each other.

"I'm nothing like you, Megatron” Sunstreaker stated pushing Sideswipe further behind him. However, this only seemed to draw Megatron’s attention.

“Oh, Sunstreaker. Malevolent, executioner, champion of the ring Sunstreaker”. Megatron paused to look at the Autobot that Sunstreaker was protecting.

“Love…will be your downfall”.

With this Megatron raised his weapon and fired. Sideswipe screamed as pain blossomed through his frame.

“No” Sunstreaker screamed, rushing over and covering the wound with his servos. However, it did no good because energon soon covered Sunstreaker’s servos. Then Sunstreaker heard another shot and blocked it with his frame.

“Stop it” Sunstreaker ordered.

“Why Sunny? Why would I do that? You wouldn’t have” Megatron said as his weapon charged again.

“Just stop. Megatron please” Sunstreaker didn’t want to sound like he was pleading; pleading was the last thing he would never do even in this situation. Sunstreaker knew he wasn’t supposed to love his twin at all, but he did.

Sunstreaker stood up as Megatron approached. Sideswipe was offline but still alive for the moment.

“Sunstreaker” Megatron spoke again, allowing Sunstreaker to look at him. Sunstreaker stood in front of Sideswipe fully this time.

“Sideswipe doesn’t love you,” Megatron said. Sideswipe heard the words but made no sense of them. Megatron snorted.

“You believe he could, don’t you? Sideswipe doesn’t and never will. If I don't kill you now…" Megatron aimed his weapon at the center of Sunstreaker’s golden chest plate, “Then Sideswipe will”.

Sunstreaker tried to hide his panic, how could Megatron seen through his façade? Sunstreaker had hidden it well for all these vorns.

“You’re wrong,” Sunstreaker said with composure. Sideswipe was listening but he was confused. He was trying to understand what was going on through the pain.

“I’m never wrong” Megatron stated. Then he placed a finger on the trigger. Time seemed to freeze but then a blue light engulfed Megatron’s frame, and he fell onto the dirty floor. Sunstreaker turned to see Bluestreak with a weapon pointing at where Megatron had stood. Then a loud explosion and cries for help rang out.

Sunstreaker moved over to Sideswipe under the watchful gaze of Bluestreak.

“Sides. Can you hear me?” Sunstreaker asked, gently touching Sideswipe’s rapidly cooling frame. Sideswipe was surprised that Sunstreaker’s tone was so soft, he almost didn’t hear the words.

“What... was he talking about?” Sideswipe managed to say, through groans of pain.

“No idea” Sunstreaker admitted, “Now let’s get you out of here”.

Sunstreaker carefully picked up his twin and carried him away from the battle.

Chapter Text

The twins Sunstreaker and Sideswipe were rivals. All the Autobots knew that. They watched the pair fight in the corridors or insult each other in the rec room. They would constantly challenge each other to various tasks or brag about their victories on the battlefield. Even during the consent battles against the Decepticons the twins would insult each other over the comms.

“Stupid slagger,” Sunstreaker said as he walked down the corridor.

“Aft” Sideswipe shouted back.

The insults could never disguise what was lurking in the other’s optics.

In public, they hated each other. They were brothers who constantly fought battles with each other. That they always tried to beat each other in public whether it be in the ring or the battlefield. However, when the twins were alone, they were so much more. It is a universal concept that there is a fine line between love and hate. In their case it is non-existent.

In areas where the cameras don’t reach, where privacy is assured. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker apologize to each other. Not with their words, but with their touch and optics.

Sideswipe buries his helm into Sunstreaker’s golden shoulders as golden arms encircle his frame. Sunstreaker sighs as a pair of red arms returns the gesture. In this quiet space, Sunstreaker isn’t the Autobot that is more like a Decepticon. And Sideswipe isn’t just a prankster or the Autobot that causes unexpected trouble.

Here, in the embrace of trust and love. They have defied all challenges and boundaries. In this space, they are one being. One spark. They are not divided by frames as their shared frequency beats at the same speed.

The emotions of love are passed between them, along with trust and the knowledge that their bond will never fade.

Chapter Text

“Sunstreaker, should we stop” Smokescreen suggested, noticing the tension radiating of the black and gold mech. The therapy session was not going the way Smokescreen had hoped. The golden twin was not complying with the activities that Smokescreen had tried to engage the mech to talk. However, Sunstreaker kept his answers short, or his lips shut.

“No” Sunstreaker snapped, sitting up straight, “I’m fine”.

“Really. Cause it looks like you’re sweating”.

“Am I” Sunstreaker ground out, stiffening suddenly as he gripped the armrest.

“And fidgeting,” Smokescreen said, a frown on his faceplate.

“Just sign the forms and leave, Smokescreen” Sunstreaker ordered while cradling his forehead in a palm. His vents running higher than normal.

“You need to discuss your issues Sunstreaker” Smokescreen said, only for Sunstreaker to glare at him.

“I know you’re having a tough time lately-“Smokescreen shut up once he saw the death glare Sunstreaker sent him. Smokescreen decided to skip the session before he ended up on Ratchet’s table.

“I’ll reschedule this session for another time. Does next week Wednesday sound good to you?”.

“Smokescreen” Sunstreaker growled, “Leave”.

Smokescreen quickly left the room, not wanting his limbs removed by the golden twin.

Once the door shut, Sunstreaker sagged back into his seat. He let out a loud moan as a black glossa traced the rim of his valve. The red, white, and black’s voice vibrating against it. "Smokescreen's left?"

"Do I care? Keep going, Sideswipe” Sunstreaker ordered.

“Yes Sir”.

Then Sideswipe proceeded to give Sunstreaker the best overload only using his warm glossa.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Introducing Sideburn and Sunstrike.
• Christmas one short

The snow was falling heavily outside, coating the world, or at least the ARK, in a cold blanket. There were a couple of snowmen or snow bots with pipes and scarves. However inside on a couch sat Sideswipe watching one youngling and sparkling play with their toys. Sunstrike (the youngling) named after his carrier drew on his little art pad while his sparkling brother Sideburn played with his blocks.

The twins after several tries had managed to create a sparkling, which was Sunstrike. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker loved their little spark with all their spark. Then another miracle occurred sometime around Christmas, and little Sideburn was created. Both twins were extremely happy that they had two offspring.

It was Christmas Eve, and the cloudy sky had turned dark, snowflakes the only bright things in view.

Sideburn and Sunstrike had already been bathed and fed for the evening. Now they were playing with their toys while they waited for their carrier to come home. Sideswipe heard the door open and smiled as Sunstreaker entered their quarters. In a flash, Sunstrike ran over and hugged his carrier’s long golden legs.

“Carrier” squealed Sunstrike.

“Hey little Sun” Sunstreaker picked up the happy youngling.

“It's story time now”.

“Is it?” Sunstreaker questioned.

“Yes, Sire said once you came home. It's story time” Sunstrike explained. Sunstreaker carried him to their berthroom with Sideswipe following behind with Sideburn.

“What book should we read?” Sunstreaker asked, gently placing Sunstrike onto his little berth.

“The Christmas one”.

“Okay. Sides pass me the pad”.

And so, for a few minutes, they read about Rudolph and his shiny, red nose until their tiny youngling and sparkling fell asleep and dreamt of what he would receive from Santa the next day.

'Let's go to bed,' Sideswipe drawled into Sunstreaker’s audios.

Sideswipe put his hand gently on Sunstreaker’s backplates and stroked him until he let out a soft moan. They both walked out of the berthroom, but Sideswipe stopped him from entering their own.

“Wait here” Sideswipe ordered.

Then he entered their berthroom and Sunstreaker waited for a few minutes.

“Enter” Sideswipe called.

When Sunstreaker entered, he saw Sideswipe sprawled on their berth, completely naked, and very ready. However, Sideswipe wore a red Santa hat and ribbon tied around his array.

“Well Hello, Santa Claus”.

“Hello Sunstreaker. Have you been good this year?”.

“I believe so” Sunstreaker answered, walking to the berth.

“Then show me,” Sideswipe said. Then Sunstreaker kissed him, pushing Sideswipe onto the surface of the berth. Sunstreaker turned them around, so Sideswipe was on top. Sunstreaker had to hold in a laugh as he realized that he was never going to be able to read a Santa story without remembering this.

It took minutes for them to overload, colours and patterns in their minds as they lay down panting, and both quickly snuck under the blankets as they heard a little creak at the door.

“Carrier, Sire?”

“Yes, little sun”.

“I thought I heard this noise, it was like… grunting?' Sunstrike said, leaning against the door frame.

Sideswipe was trying not to laugh as Sunstreaker glared at him.

“It was probably Santa Claus! Go to bed quickly, or he won't leave you any presents!' Sideswipe said as Sunstreaker tightened the blankets around them to shield Sunstrike’s optics. However, he didn’t need to because Sunstrike ran quickly back to his berth, faster than ever before.

“We should probably lock the door next time” Sunstreaker suggested.

“And maybe a gag” Sideswipe added, “Don’t want to give our little one’s nightmares”.

Sunstreaker snorted before they both went to recharge.

Merry Christmas to my readers.

I am wishing you joy and happiness.

From Blackcat 42

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Sideswipe is an Autobot
• Sunstreaker is a Decepticon

Laying here in his twin’s arms, Sideswipe felt complete. It was just them in a little safe spot as the acid rain pelted their shelter. Sunstreaker was deep in recharge his red optics closed as the lightening claimed another helpless bot. Sideswipe listened to the scream before it all went silent again. He knew it wouldn’t last because, in this little space, there was no fighting and no war to think about. It was just them. Somehow during all this fighting, they both learned that they no longer hated the other. This led to another type of emotion, one that was more scarier than hatred. One they both felt, it was called love.

Sideswipe knew that once he left this safe space, his twin would hate him again. They would go back to being enemies but ones in love.

Sideswipe couldn’t bring himself to talk about what will happen when the final battle comes. They both pretended that everything would be all right. Though Sunstreaker had his doubts, along with Sideswipe. But right now, Sideswipe didn’t want to think about it. All he wanted was to relax in his twin’s hold. Sunstreaker tightened his hold on Sideswipe, then loosened it as some unheard danger passed.

Sunstreaker knew that falling in love with his twin at a time like this was stupid, but he couldn’t fight his feelings anymore. Sunstreaker couldn’t help to think that it could be his servos that offlines his twin, or maybe Sideswipe does it to him. Sunstreaker snorted the day Sideswipe could offline him would never happen, Sideswipe is too weak but Sunstreaker isn’t and that is what terrifies him straight to the spark.

Sunstreaker is loyal to the Decepticons while Sideswipe is loyal to the Autobots. They both know that they could be killed if they betray their respected leaders.

Sunstreaker knew if they both made it out online, they could never be together. If the Decepticons won Sideswipe would become a slave to Sunstreaker or be offline for good. If the Autobots won Sunstreaker would be imprisoned for the rest of his long life or be sentenced to death for his crimes. In either case, there was no happy ending.

In this moment their sparks beat as one. Sunstreaker feels all the emotions from Sideswipe and vice versa. However, Sideswipe knows that the storm will end, and their moment will be over. Sideswipe looks over to his sharp golden and black Decepticon. Sideswipe gently squeezes Sunstreaker’s frame trying to convey that Sunstreaker should remember the moments they share in the midst of all this chaos and war.

As the acid rain eases Sideswipe wiggles out of Sunstreaker’s hold, and he places a quick kiss on his twin’s helm. It’s a reminder that Sideswipe will love his twin to the day he offlines. Sunstreaker acknowledges the gesture by sending a pulse through the bond. Sideswipe feels the thank you for giving Sunstreaker a brief sense of peace amidst all this fighting.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Sunstreaker is possessive.
• Sideswipe was a slave.
• Sunstreaker was a gladiator turned artist.
• This is dark.

Sideswipe slammed the door, walking past the kitchen in anger. Sideswipe didn’t notice Sunstreaker standing in the doorway to his studio as he stormed down the hallway to their berthroom.

“Sideswipe” Sunstreaker called.

Slamming the door in his faceplate, Sideswipe grabbed some of his possessions from the room and shoved them into his subspace. Just as Sideswipe turned to grab some more stuff, Sunstreaker blew the berthroom door apart. Sideswipe was stunned as Sunstreaker hoisted his weapon and pulled away the remains of the door. Sunstreaker looked at the empty shelf and saw Sideswipe grabbing more stuff from another shelf.

Sunstreaker stalked over, making Sideswipe step away from his other shelf.

“What are you doing?” Sunstreaker demanded.

Sighing, Sideswipe turned to meet Sunstreaker’s angry gaze.

“I’m leaving Sunny. I- “.

“What? No. Sides, please, I lo- “.

“Sunstreaker” Sideswipe yelled, “Just don’t. Just…please” he pleaded.

At first, Sunstreaker didn't know how to react. Sunstreaker loved Sideswipe with all his spark, it wasn't his fault he couldn't always express it properly. Sunstreaker was shaken out of his stupor when Sideswipe turned and grabbed one of his possessions. Feeling an overpowering sense of rage, Sunstreaker threw a paint applicator just missing Sideswipe’s helm.

Sideswipe jumped and shouted, turning to see an extremely angry Sunstreaker.

“Sunstreaker”.

“You are not leaving me, Sideswipe!”.

With optic fluid streaming down his faceplate Sideswipe stepped away from Sunstreaker. He made to leave through the entrance of the berthroom when Sunstreaker grabbed him. Sideswipe was forced to face Sunstreaker directly. Sideswipe shrunk back as Sunstreaker’s optics darkened.

“I said 'You're not leaving Sideswipe!'" Sunstreaker said tightening his grip on Sideswipe’s arm. Sunstreaker’s claws were leaving scratches on Sideswipe’s frame.

“Sunstreaker stop. Let me…. OW! SUNSTREAKER let me go! You’re hurting me” Sideswipe cried as Sunstreaker’s grip continued to tighten and as a result, his claws dug in. Sunstreaker felt the pain and fear through the bond. At once Sunstreaker relinquished his grip on Sideswipe’s arm and he tried to apologize.

“I’m… sorry Sideswipe. Jus-".

“No,” Sideswipe said, standing his ground.

“No?! Sideswipe, I just said I was -".

“No, Sunstreaker. You've said it too many times before”.

Sideswipe looked at his defeated golden twin and he stepped away.

“Goodbye Sunstreaker”.

Sideswipe turned and walked out of their berthroom. Just as he was about to turn down the hallway, Sunstreaker acted. Sideswipe was thrown against the wall, but he was able to recover but not fast enough. Sunstreaker grabbed Sideswipe by the arm and turned him. Then pushed Sideswipe back, he found himself pinned by Sunstreaker’s arm and his other hand was placed on the wall close to Sideswipe’s helm.

“Sunny, ST-".

“BE SILENT” Sunstreaker ordered, “Don’t tell me what to do!”.

Sideswipe felt fear creep up his struts, knowing better than to interrupt Sunstreaker this deep into his rage.

"I told you I was sorry, and this is how you go about accepting my apology?! LOOK AT ME!" Sunstreaker screamed, pushing Sideswipe further into the wall. Sideswipe felt his frame buckle under his twin’s weight.

Sideswipe searched for a way to escape, which was noticed by Sunstreaker.

“I do everything for you! I stopped fighting in the rings because of you! I stopped interfacing with other gladiators for you! I became an artist for you!” Sunstreaker yelled.

Sideswipe shuddered as Sunstreaker screamed those truths at him. Sunstreaker growled and leaned in.

“You’re mine, Slave” Sunstreaker said in a hard, chilling voice.

Optic fluid gushed down Sideswipe’s face plate. Sunstreaker kissed away the fluid even though Sideswipe tried to move away from him. Using his frame Sunstreaker pressed Sideswipe completely against the wall, leaving him no room to escape.

“Don’t fight me, Sides” Sunstreaker whispered, “You won’t win”.

Then Sunstreaker harshly pressed his lips to Sideswipe’s, he couldn’t stop Sunstreaker, so Sideswipe let him explore his mouth. Sunstreaker broke the kiss with a snarl.

“Sunny” Sideswipe whimpered, “Please, don’t, don’t-".

"Shh! Don't speak” Sunstreaker ordered. Then Sunstreaker removed Sideswipe’s chest armour along with his own. Sideswipe closed his optics as Sunstreaker’s bright spark filled the space between them.

“Open” Sunstreaker ordered, tapping a finger on Sideswipe’s spark chamber.

Sideswipe opened his mouth to say something, but Sunstreaker growled so Sideswipe removed his protective casing. The two sparks lighten the space between them. Then Sunstreaker lunged and their sparks connected. Sideswipe felt the anger, fear, and pain as the sparks combined.

Finally, the sparks stopped and retreated back to their chambers. They both were shaking but standing.

"Shh, shh," Sunstreaker whispered into Sideswipe’s audios, "Look what you've done. Look what you made me do”.

Sideswipe cried harder as Sunstreaker released him. Then Sunstreaker gently held him, tucking Sideswipe’s helm into his golden shoulder.

“Apologise”.

“I’m s-s-s-sorry!" Sideswipe stammered out.

Sunstreaker moved away from him and stared into Sideswipe’s blue optics. Then he smiled.

“I forgive you Sideswipe. But if you ever try to leave me again, I will not hesitate to kill you”.

Then Sunstreaker gave Sideswipe one last kiss before stepping away. Sunstreaker returned to his art studio as Sideswipe slumped onto the floor, knowing he could never leave his twin.

Chapter Text

The room was too small to accommodate Sideswipe’s long stride as he paced back and forth. It took him just three steps to cross the room. He muttered to himself. Occasionally, Sideswipe would nervously rub a hand over his helm in agitation.

Sunstreaker was seated in a chair against the wall, legs crossed, trying to ignore him. Sunstreaker was cool and collected as he doodled on a sketch pad. Only his jiggling ped and fast-running fans gave him away. Sunstreaker was as antsy as Sideswipe.

Sunstreaker tossed aside his pen after Sideswipe bumped into a chair.

“Stop pacing, you're making it worse. We must be patient”.

“I hate waiting," Sideswipe complained, "It makes me anxious”.

Sunstreaker sighed, “I know”.

Sideswipe walked over and sat down on the chair closest to Sunstreaker.

“Maybe we could make time pass more quickly” Sideswipe suggested.

“Oh. How so?” Sunstreaker asked, putting away his sketch pad.

“I have an idea,” Sideswipe said, moving closer. Then in a quick move, he kissed Sunstreaker.

The kiss was an adventure, Sideswipe slowly moved their lips together, his glossa teasing Sunstreaker’s mouth. He slowly relaxed but pulled away.

“It may not be the right moment for this” Sunstreaker said, glancing at the door. Sideswipe also turned his helm to see the door.

“You know Ratchet said it would be a while,” Sideswipe said, “So let's just take our minds off it for a bit”.

Sunstreaker was about to say something when Sideswipe caught his lips again. The kiss was heavenly, and Sideswipe’s touches were very relaxing. Without Sunstreaker noticing Sideswipe climbed into his lap. Sunstreaker hissed at the potential paint transfers, but Sideswipe distracted him by gently rubbing his helm vent.

Sunstreaker sank back into the chair, that slightly wobbled under the twin’s combined weight. However, Sunstreaker was unsure.

“Sides what if he comes back and we're…"

“That’s the idea, Sunny. They say time flies when you're having fun. Let's make the clock move”.

Sunstreaker gasped as Sideswipe tugged on some sensitive wires. The very real chance of being caught lent a delicious excitement to their activities.  

When Ratchet arrived moments later, Sideswipe was innocently sitting next to Sunstreaker. Ratchet gave them a suspicious look.

“Congratulations, Sunstreaker. The wait is over. You're carrying!".

Sideswipe smiled so brightly, then he gave Sunstreaker a delighted kiss.

“In fact, you're carrying twins” Ratchet announced, “Primus help us all” he muttered.

The twins didn’t hear that part as Sideswipe punched the air with joy.

“Yes, I so won that bet with Smokescreen! I can't wait to hold them”.

“I hate you,” Sunstreaker said, knowing that the twins would ruin his beautiful frame.

“Oh, Sunny. Don’t be sour. We’re having twins! It’s exciting!” Sideswipe said.

“Really. Do you know twins take a longer time to emerge?”.

“They do?” Sideswipe tilted his helm confused.

“Sunstreaker is right. Twins take longer than a normal sparking. The carrying time is three earth years. Not to mention there are more health concerns” Ratchet said adding his input to the conversation.

“SAY What! Three years” Sideswipe exclaimed, “I hate waiting”.

Sunstreaker grinned impishly. "Don't worry, Sideswipe. They say good things come to those who wait”.

Chapter Text

It was Valentine’s Day at the ARK, and every crew member was feeling festive. Red, white, and pink paper hearts floated around the ceiling. Red, white, and pink streamers along with balloons decorated the rec room. Even the tables had red or pink roses on the surfaces. The rations had been changed to the colour red in celebration of the holiday.

Sunstreaker found the colours sickening along with the overwhelming joy from the crew, it was annoying. Why did it matter that love was celebrated on one Earth Day out of the many others? Why do humans confess their love on this certain day?

Sunstreaker thought it was all stupid and the colours made him want to destroy it all. To make matters worse Tracks bragged about receiving a large number of gifts from admirers. Sunstreaker had clenched his denta and fists to prevent himself from slamming his fist into Tracks gloating faceplates. So, what that Sunstreaker was currently single? He didn’t care and he didn’t need a partner for this one day of the year.

“Time of the surprise” Sideswipe announced. A few Autobots looked fearful as Sideswipe pressed a button. Suddenly a vast majority of the balloons overhead popped. Some Autobots took cover as pink and red confetti rained down. Along with cards and pieces of paper. Then Sideswipe started handing out roses to the other Autobots.

Sunstreaker sat at the table alone, his gaze fixed on the pink wall as he drank his red energon. He didn’t want to see the sickening happy faces of those who got a Valentine. Sunstreaker knew he wouldn't be receiving one, he was currently unattached, and he wanted to remain that way.

It wasn’t until Sideswipe collided with him, did Sunstreaker paid attention to his surroundings. He growled at Sideswipe, then felt something touch his fingers. Sunstreaker looked down to see a piece of paper with his name written on it along with a red rose.

Storeroom 14, 2100. That was all that had been written on the piece of paper. Nothing more, Sunstreaker was confused and angry. Who would send him this? If it was a joke, then some bot will end up in the scrap heap.

Before long the party ended and Sunstreaker returned to his duties. Later Sunstreaker was in his quarters drawing when he glanced at his HUD. Then he saw that it was 2050, he had ten minutes to see if the note was real or not. Sunstreaker decided to find out if the note was real so he made his way to the storeroom.

Once at the storeroom, Sunstreaker waited and waited. 2100 came and went as did 2105 and then 2110. Finally, at 2115 Sunstreaker gave up and slammed his fist into the door. Then to his amazement, the door opened and Sunstreaker saw a flickering light. Sunstreaker stepped inside to see a beautifully decorated room with candles hanging from the ceiling and no Valentine’s Day colours.

Then Sunstreaker noticed the red, white, and black mech standing in the centre of the storeroom. Without the slightest bit of hesitation, the mech walked forward and grabbed Sunstreaker’s helm. In a very quick move, their lips touched, and it was the best kiss in Sunstreaker’s life. He felt like everything was right in the universe.

Then the mech pulled away. They stared into each other blue optics.

“Happy Valentine’s Day Sunny”.

“You too, Sides”.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Set after the war

“What are you doing here, Sideswipe”.

Sideswipe spun around cautiously, careful not to spill the drink in his hand, to see Sunstreaker standing in the doorway. Sideswipe sighed as he sipped his high grade from his cube.

“I’m hiding” Sideswipe answered.

Sunstreaker snorted as he walked into the room.

"Mind if I join you?"

Sideswipe opened his mouth ready to deny him, but Sunstreaker was already in the room. He scowled before sitting down on the floor next to his twin. Sideswipe didn’t look at him as he leaned against the cold metal wall.

Silence encased the two as Sunstreaker sipped from a flute filled with some kind of amber liquid. Sideswipe was sure it could have been some type of high grade. Sunstreaker leaned against one of the shelves as his fingers wrapped around the cold flute of liquid.

“Care to tell me why one of the most successful business mechs is hiding,” Sunstreaker asked as he looked at the mech before him. Sideswipe would glance over at him every so often, but mostly his gaze was focused on something unseen across the room. Sideswipe seemed to be lost in his CPU. To be honest, Sideswipe was polished up very nicely. Sunstreaker couldn’t recall the last time, he had seen his twin looking so fine.

The war was over. The twins had at first had trouble adjusting to this new normal. However, Sunstreaker became an artist while Sideswipe became a successful business mech.

“Want to tell me why Iacon’s most famous artist is hiding down with an unsuccessful business mech?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker was taken back at first, he didn’t expect that. Sunstreaker could tell from Sideswipe’s expression that he was miserable. So Sunstreaker decided to answer his twin’s question.

“I’m avoiding all the idiots. They only want to know me because of my artistic talent. And the credits that I make. Plus, I’m considered popular”.

Sideswipe was surprised that Sunstreaker answered his question. Sideswipe didn’t think he would. Sideswipe looked up to meet his twin’s gaze. He decided to answer his twin’s question.

“I made a bad business choice. The kind that might tip us back into war. Everything is wrong. And I’m being blamed. Every bot is looking at me like I’m stupid. Or that they can’t believe I did something like that”.

Sideswipe tried to hide a sob, but Sunstreaker could tell. He moved over.

“What do you need Sideswipe?” Sunstreaker asked.

“A time machine” Sideswipe joked while wiping the fluid from his optics.

“Sorry can’t do that. Anything else?” Sunstreaker asked.

“A hug” Sideswipe admitted.

It didn't take more than a moment before Sunstreaker leaned in and wrapped both arms around Sideswipe. Holding him tight, Sunstreaker tried to tell Sideswipe without words that he was there for him. A moment later Sideswipe returned the gesture.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Noble Sunstreaker
• Commoner Sideswipe.

The doorbell rang twice. Then there was a frantic pounding on the door.

Sideswipe ignored it, pulling the black blanket over his helm. Sideswipe knew he was ruining his clean plating, but he didn’t care. Sideswipe had spent a few extra credits to make his plating shine, to make himself presentable for Sunstreaker’s latest appearance at another art gallery.

This time around, Sunstreaker was introducing Sideswipe as his partner. Now there was no use for Sideswipe to be this handsome again. The doorbell rang again, Sideswipe sighed and pulled off the black blanket. He wiped his optics and opened the door.

Sideswipe was surprised to see Sunstreaker standing in the doorway, panting heavily. Also, his armour was scuffed in places.

“Sunny?”.

“I-I meant to be here sooner” Sunstreaker stammered, “But I accidentally lost my way. Then my transport broke down”.

Sideswipe was surprised.

“You got lost. Why didn’t you just transform and drive?”

“I did,” Sunstreaker said.

“Wait. You drove the whole way here” Sideswipe said, he couldn’t believe that Sunstreaker would do that.

“I would do anything for you”.

Sideswipe stepped back, allowing Sunstreaker to enter. The door closed behind him as they stared at each other.

“What are you here Sunstreaker?” Sideswipe tried to keep his voice level. He was still upset about what had happened at the Art Gallery event.

“Sideswipe I'm so sorry for how this evening went," Sunstreaker said hoarsely rubbing his hands together.  

“Really” Sideswipe scoffed, “Your creators treated me rudely. And refused to call me your partner. I had to leave before I said something worse. Oh, thanks for standing up for me!”.

Sunstreaker looked ashamed of that.

“Then your creators announced to the entire event that you were available and ready for a respectable partner” Sideswipe added.

Sunstreaker took a step closer.

“I’ve never loved anyone else but you, Sideswipe” Sunstreaker paused, “and I never will. I would rather offline than bond with anyone but you”.

Sideswipe took a sharp, trembling breath. He wanted to go cry into his blanket some more.

“If that’s true. Why did it take you so long to get here?” Sideswipe asked.

“I told my creators off” Sunstreaker admitted.

Sideswipe gasped, “You didn’t”.

“I did” Sunstreaker confirmed, “I told them that I am done playing their rules, that they shouldn’t have been rude to you. Because you’re amazing. Then I announced to everyone that I am not available. And that you are my partner”.

Sideswipe was amazed that Sunstreaker did that in front of his upper-society friends and family. However, Sideswipe knew the truth.

“We’re never going to work Sunstreaker. I'll never fit into your upper society” Sideswipe said, wiping away the fluid that had gathered around his optics. Sideswipe turned away but Sunstreaker grabbed his wrist, pulling Sideswipe to him. Sunstreaker curved his arm around Sideswipe’s shoulder, the other forcing Sideswipe to look at him.

“Frag them,” Sunstreaker said, “Frag them all. You're perfect as you are. If a bunch of upper society rejects can’t see that, then that's on them”.

“But… you’ll lose your place in upper society. Your creators threatened to remove you from the family” Sideswipe protested.

Sunstreaker made a noise of profoundly anxious irritation.

“What does your spark choose, Sideswipe? Forget everyone else, forget the universe, what do you want?" Sunstreaker asked.

Sideswipe bit his lip before answering.

“You… you forever”.

Sunstreaker’s arms curved around Sideswipe, moulding them together like a puzzle.

Chapter Text

• Noble Artist Sunstreaker
• Business mech Sideswipe

“If I didn't know any better, Sideswipe. I'd think you were stalking me."

Sideswipe titled his helm back to look over his shoulder as he waited in line. This particular café severed the best energon flavours around.

“Unfortunately, Sunstreaker. I have better things to do with my day” Sideswipe said. Then he stepped forward as the line moved up.

The smell of several substances filled the air. Sideswipe could smell the sweet energon along with various metals. Sideswipe watched the server add some gold flakes to a cube of energon. Sideswipe could feel his mouth water at the taste.

“Then do explain why I see you here at the exact same time every day. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately for you, it happens to coincide with when I happen to be here”.

Sunstreaker smirked at Sideswipe, crossing his arms as he leaned against the counter that wrapped around the back half of the café. Sunstreaker was behind him again.

“How was I supposed to know, you come here of all places” Sideswipe countered, “besides isn’t this place a little too low class for you”.

“I don’t think so,” Sunstreaker said.

“Then why don’t I see any of your noble friends here,” Sideswipe said.

“Hey, easy on the noble thing. I’m just an artist”.

“A famous artist. Now noble thanks to your popularity” Sideswipe said.

“You mean my wealth,” Sunstreaker said.

The line moved forward. Sideswipe focused his attention to the cabinet, making a note of what flavours he would add to his drink.

“You know maybe I like mixing with the other classes,” Sunstreaker said. Sideswipe snorted.

“Doubtful”.

“Maybe I like coming here,” Sunstreaker said, trying to encourage the conversation.

"Mmm," Sideswipe murmured, noncommittal. Then it was his turn and Sideswipe ordered. Then Sideswipe walked away to the only table left that was in the corner and sat down. Sideswipe pulled out a datapad and started working on for Sunstreaker to sit down.

“Excuse me. I didn’t invite you to sit down” Sideswipe said, glaring at Sunstreaker.

“This is the only table left,” Sunstreaker said, pointing out that the café was bustling.

“Oh, I think I see one, over there” Sideswipe gestured vaguely. Then he left, leaving Sunstreaker alone.

Two cycles later, Sideswipe walked into the café as he went to place his order, the server only smiled at him.

“Oh, your order has already been placed”. The server handed Sideswipe a steaming cube of energon with gold flakes. Sideswipe smelt the sweet energon as the server continued to smile.

“And paid for”.

Sideswipe frowned but accepted the cube, he walked over to an empty table in the corner. Sideswipe sat down and pulled out a datapad to read. He noticed a yellow data pad on the table surface. Sideswipe tapped the surface and words appeared.

Sideswipe.

Let me show you what the upper class is really like.

My Art Gallery.

Next night cycle.

Sideswipe could easily guess who sent the datapad from the colour and sheer audacity. Sideswipe glanced over to the server who was still smiling. Sideswipe snorted but attempted to hide the smile that was threatening to take over his face plate.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe kissed him.

He'd actually kissed him.

“What do you think you're doing?" Sunstreaker hissed, wishing that he could yell at Sideswipe. It was well past midnight; they had been patrolling the outside of the Ark for hours now. Sunstreaker was not happy, to put it mildly.

Sunstreaker had stepped on numerous organic creatures, and now he had fluids on his peds. It was all Sideswipe’s fault, he had pranked Prowl again and Sunstreaker was also being punished. Sunstreaker muttered his complaints, clearly long enough for Sideswipe to shut him up.

“I’m sure even you know what that was, Sunny."

“Oh, so you think you can just do that, do you? Kiss me. Then call me my hated nickname in all sixty earth seconds?” Sunstreaker said, furious. He was beyond furious. How dare Sideswipe do that! Sideswipe had no right, to cross his physical boundaries like that! Sideswipe was taking advantage when Sunstreaker was not paying attention!

"Like you really mind," Sideswipe scoffed, flashing that charming smirk.

“I mind very much, slagger” Sunstreaker snapped.

“Oh, insulting me. I’m so scared” Sideswipe said.

“Will you just shut up for once, Sideswipe?”

“Why? Because you enjoyed kissing me?" Sideswipe smirked. However, he started walking away, creating space between them.

"Kissing you? I didn't kiss you! You kissed me and I struggled to get away from your slimy mouth!" Sunstreaker said as loudly as he dared, walking quickly to catch up with him. Sunstreaker did not want Red Alert to record what they were doing especially that on patrol.

“If standing still is what you consider struggling then I—". However, before Sideswipe could finish, Sunstreaker grabbed him. Sideswipe looked scared for a moment before Sunstreaker pressed his lips to his. Sunstreaker kissed Sideswipe much more gently but also with more passion.

“If you ever, ever, mention any of this again, I will personally slaughter you," Sunstreaker threatened against Sideswipe’s lips once they had stopped. Then in a blink of an optic, Sunstreaker stormed off to the next checkpoint leaving Sideswipe to catch up.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Sideburn and Sunstrike.
• Storms 

It was a dark and stormy night.

No, really. This particular night on Earth was insanely dark and stormy. Honestly, the whole Earth week had been rather grey and rainy, but this particular night seemed to be the peak of the unpleasant weather. The rain pouring down from the sky was picked up and tossed around by the winds of the storm, creating a whirlpool-like environment for those unfortunate sparks that had patrol.

Thankfully the twins were not one of those poor Autobots. They were happily in recharge as the storm outside was like a lullaby. The low rumble of the thunder was pleasant to their recharge, for some. A very loud unexpected crack of thunder woke up little Sideburn from his recharge. Now Sideburn was different from his parents and was a quiet sparkling. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker could count on one hand the number of times he really cried.

Sideburn was a different sparkling in that if he wanted something, he typically would just grab at you and babble, furrowing his optic ridges until you figured out what the issue was. However, when he cried…oh, when he cried. Let’s just say that Sideburn had inherited Sunstreaker’s volume and was not afraid to use when necessary. Like now. Sideburn was making damn sure someone knew that he was not happy, and someone needed to help fix that immediately.

Up until this point, Sideswipe and Sunstreaker were peacefully recharging in their berth. At the sound of the cry, the twins were alert, battle systems online. They glanced at each other, hands grasping at weapons as they listened for any other sounds. Sunstreaker huffed when he realized it was just their sparkling. Sideswipe rubbed his optics as Sunstreaker shifted to get off the berth, but Sideswipe stopped him.

"No, no, no; I got him. You go back to recharge," Sideswipe said as he placed his peds onto the floor.

“Fine. Just check before you come back” Sunstreaker requested as he put away his weapons.

“Sure Sunny. Do you want Sideburn with us tonight?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker snuggled back onto the berth surface, hiding his faceplate. In truth, he wanted his little sparkling, but Sideburn was at that age where he should be recharging alone.

“No” Sunstreaker muttered.

“Okay,” Sideswipe padded out of their room to where Sideburn was throwing a fit. The crack of the thunder had woken him up and he was scared and unhappy. He wanted one of his creators to fix it.

Sideswipe was a little surprised that his sparkling could be that loud and was convinced that it definitely came from Sunstreaker. He was the only twin that could bellow that loud. Sideswipe picked up the fussy sparkling, holding him near the centre of his chest plate. Sideswipe cooed softly while rubbing gentle circles on the sparkling’s back. After a few minutes, Sideburn began to settle finding comfort in Sideswipe’s steady spark beat. Once Sideswipe felt that Sideburn wouldn’t start screaming again, he slowly began walking around.

As Sideswipe walked, he took a few minutes to look at his offspring. Now nearly in recharge, Sideburn was a spitting image of his sire. Black helm horns, red plating, and nearly identical faceplate (Sideburn was still a sparkling so he was all chubby-plushy). Though to be fair Sideswipe and Sunstreaker were similar when it came to faceplate design. Sunstreaker always pointed out that his features were more handsome than Sideswipe’s, who would sigh every time.

The only thing that separated Sideswipe from his offspring was Sideburn’s optical shape. His optics were more like Sunstreaker’s then Sideswipe’s. Honestly, Sideswipe couldn’t tell the difference, but Sunstreaker insisted that was the case. Sideswipe looked down and found that Sideburn was recharging. So, Sideswipe decided to return Sideburn to his crib.

Sideswipe walked past a closed door and slowly opened it as to not make too much noise. Sideswipe peaked his helm into the room of his youngling Sunstrike, checking to see if the storm had disturbed him like his sparkling brother. Like his carrier, Sunstrike was recharging on his front holding his pillow like a stuffed toy.

From the looks of things, Sideswipe deduced that the storm hadn’t bothered the youngling in the least. Around the room, there was a mix of toys, paints, and weapons. The most recent was an energon dagger that hung on the wall. It was a gift from Sunstreaker, who then got Sideswipe to hung it on the wall.

Just as Sideburn was a spitting image of his sire, Sunstrike was a spitting image of his carrier. The youngling was identical to Sunstreaker, much to Sideswipe’s amusement. He did notice that Sunstrike had grown again, and the berth need to be changed. With a light smile, Sideswipe silently closed the door and noticed a faint glow of optics as the door closed. Sideswipe shook his helm and went back to Sideburn’s room. Once inside Sideswipe placed a kiss on the sparkling’s helm and placed him back into the crib.

Sideswipe left the door slightly cracked in case Sideburn had another scare during the night. Sideswipe returned to his berth and silently slid back next to his twin. Sideswipe took in Sunstreaker’s recharging form, after two offspring Sunstreaker was still as handsome as ever. Sideswipe smiled and wondered how he was ever able to get so lucky, he would never know.

“How is he?” Sunstreaker asked, with optics still offline and spread out on the berth.

“Sideburn is okay. He just got startled by the storm, is all. Checked on Sunstrike while I was up; he was completely unfazed” Sideswipe answered. Sunstreaker huffed, shifting so Sideswipe could lie down on his back again. Sunstreaker shifted so they were close together. Sideswipe chuckled, while Sunstreaker gazed up at him with a glare.

“Recharge Sides” Sunstreaker ordered, before shutting off his optics and snuggling into Sideswipe’s frame. Sideswipe sighed and he too slipped into recharge as the storm continued until the morning light.

Chapter Text

• Business mech Sideswipe
• Business mech Sunstreaker
• Electric shock.
• Medical injuries.
• Workers strike.

Sideswipe shut the office door firmly before leaving for the end of shift, he turned off the lights as he walked down the corridor. It was actually getting pretty late, and Sideswipe was one of the last people in the company to leave. Sideswipe was ready to soak in a hot oil bath with a flute of high grade. This cycle had been especially brutal for the workers in the company. Apparently, there had been an uprising at the energon factory and the company’s power had been cut off. Sideswipe was just about to close on a deal that would bring in millions of credits for the company, only for the power to cut off.

Then some slagger tried to fix the power by manually touching the wires. Needless to say, it caused a massive electrical surge to pass through several employees. Many required medical attention while Sideswipe used every negotiating skill he had and closed on the deal. The slagger who miraculously was unharmed, apologised for his actions, though Sideswipe doubted that his apology was sincere. However, it was finally over, thank Primus. Now all that Sideswipe had to worry about was an early meeting with his supervisor.

As Sideswipe stepped out of the lift and made his way into the lobby, a pair of hands grabbed him from behind. Sideswipe would deny that he let out a yelp as he was pulled into a dark corner.

“Shhhh” a voice behind him said, “It’s me”.

Sideswipe relaxed his frame and let out a sigh of relief.

“Damn it, Sunny. How many times have I told you not to do that?" Sideswipe reprimanded.

Sunstreaker just chuckled as he removed his hands. Sideswipe was about to turn around only for Sunstreaker to kiss and nip the back of his neck. Sideswipe shivered.

“Wait, wait” Sideswipe said, “We can’t tonight”.

“And why not?” Sunstreaker asked between lip movements as he continued his path towards Sideswipe’s left shoulder.  Sunstreaker began to slide his hands up and down Sideswipe’s frame. All thoughts left Sideswipe’s CPU as he gasped.

“B-because…" Sideswipe started to say only for Sunstreaker to suck on his neck cables a little harder. Then Sunstreaker gave Sideswipe a little bite.

“I’ve missed you” Sunstreaker whispered.

“Me too” Sideswipe admitted.

Despite his protests, Sideswipe began to move one of his hands towards Sunstreaker’s frame while the other rested on Sunstreaker’s arm.

"So why can't we…hang out?" Sunstreaker asked as he continued to slide his hands down Sideswipe’s frame and pull him towards him. Sideswipe found himself facing Sunstreaker directly.

“Well, I…" Sideswipe was left speechless when Sunstreaker moved his head to meet his lips and kissed him.

Sunstreaker started the kiss slow and sensually, his denta nibbling on Sideswipe’s lower lip, trying to get him to open his mouth. When Sideswipe did with a sigh, Sunstreaker slipped his glossa. The kiss quickly turned demanding, and Sideswipe turned towards him to deepen it. Sunstreaker’s arms went around his neck as his arms tightened around Sideswipe’s waist. Slowly, Sunstreaker’s hands moved down towards Sideswipe’s aft plates, pulling him forward while squeezing it. Sideswipe moaned at Sunstreaker’s touches.

After a few more minutes of battling with their glossa’s, Sideswipe finally broke the kiss, both of them gasping for air.

“You were saying,” Sunstreaker said in a rough tone as he began kissing and sucking Sideswipe’s neck again and pulling him even more tightly towards him. Sunstreaker then moved his helm even lower towards an energon cable and gave it a strong suck. Sideswipe gasped loudly and he gave up.

 “Alright, you win,” Sideswipe said. Sunstreaker stopped kissing to smile before gathering Sideswipe in his arms. Sideswipe protested as Sunstreaker smirked and carried Sideswipe out of the building to his private transport where it took them to Sunstreaker’s apartment.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Striping of armour
• Sexy dancing

Sunstreaker slowly moved his metal ball around in his energon glass, not paying attention to his surroundings on purpose. Sunstreaker did not want to be at some nightclub no matter how much his rival and somewhat friend Tracks begged and pleaded. In Sunstreaker’s opinion, a creation day party was better off at a private residence where they could be as crazy as they wanted in private. Yet somehow Sunstreaker agreed to watch his friends get overcharged and make fools out of themselves in this nightclub.

Hearing a new song coming from the stage behind him, Sunstreaker kept his optics on his drink, not wanting to watch the performers participate in the club’s amateur show. At the moment, all of the mech performers were gyrating and getting a slew of credits from the crowd at the club. Plus, from Sunstreaker sorry Track’s friends.  Sunstreaker was too hung up over his recent and incredibly ridiculous, fight with his twin.

“Give a round of applause for our next performer, Sides” The announcer shouted, soon drowned out by the screams of the femmes in the club.

Sunstreaker didn’t think anything was peculiar about the name until he heard some bot whisper.

“I’ve always had a weakness for red mechs”.

The golden mech swiftly turned around, his optics widening as he watched his twin, Sideswipe, gyrate his hips and gave a smoldering gaze to the femmes huddled up close to the stage. Sunstreaker found himself mesmerized by the stripper moves Sideswipe was pulling off with an air of confidence and ease. Since when could Sideswipe ‘drop it low’ like that?

Primus, Sideswipe looked way too damn sexy doing so. Then their optics locked intensely as Sideswipe slowly removed his pelvic armour. This earned a round of whistles and screams but Sunstreaker was frozen in place. With a look of hunger in his optics and a look of confusion in Sunstreaker’s, he was surprised Sideswipe didn’t gesture Sunstreaker to bring him closer.

The moment ended once Sideswipe turned round and shook his sexy hips, showing off his firm aft plates. Sunstreaker felt everything was in slow motion as Sideswipe picked up his discarded black pelvic armour. This gave the audience a teasing look at his goods. Sunstreaker’s mouth dropped in shock and anger, but he somehow recovered to catch the armour piece as the slagger deliberately threw it at him.

Sideswipe slightly turned his helm playfully and suggestively once the music had ended. Then Sideswipe disappeared behind a silvery curtain. Sunstreaker returned his attention to Tracks, hiding the armour piece in his lap. Then a message came over Sunstreaker’s comm.

: Why don’t you follow me and leave that slagger Tracks? I’m more fun than him:

Sunstreaker snorted and weighed the options: stay with Tracks celebrating his creation day or spend some time with his sexy twin. Sunstreaker didn’t say goodbye as he left the group and hurried to the backstage area. He ignored the curious and encouraging looks as Sunstreaker had a twin that needed to be talked to, maybe Sunstreaker would give Sideswipe a show.

Chapter Text

“I’m not meeting you like this again, Sideswipe. It won't work, we have to stop” Sunstreaker said. Sideswipe grabbed his hands, but Sunstreaker pulled out of his grip. Sideswipe tried to step closer, but Sunstreaker stepped back, creating a space between them.

“We have to stop” Sunstreaker repeats as Sideswipe stares at him.

Sideswipe was confused, they were okay, right? Sure, their relationship was new and exciting, but Sunstreaker was acting a little off.

"Sunstreaker! Why can't we be together? It'll be fine, we can work it out because we love eachoth-"

“Don’t” Sunstreaker yelled, loud enough that Sideswipe took several steps back from him.

“I don’t love you”.

Before Sideswipe could even think of a reply, Sunstreaker slammed his frame against his. They both fell to the ground. Sideswipe’s helm slammed against the ground as Sunstreaker pinned his arms above his helm. They stared at each other. Then Sunstreaker’s lips crashed onto Sideswipe’s. The kiss dented his lips and Sideswipe felt like he was being crushed but didn’t push Sunstreaker away.

Sunstreaker bit down on Sideswipe’s lower lip, tasting energon a moment later. This didn't stop either of them. Sunstreaker became distracted, Sideswipe could tell because the grip on his arms loosened. Sideswipe quickly moved his arms out of Sunstreaker’s reach but not quick enough because Sunstreaker pinned Sideswipe’s wrists instead.

Sunstreaker finally tore away from the rough, desperate kiss. His lips brushed against Sideswipe’s cheek to his helm horn.

“I hate you” Sunstreaker whispered in the gentlest, most loving voice Sideswipe had ever heard him use. Then Sunstreaker moved away, Sideswipe lay on the dirty floor as Sunstreaker stood up and walked away.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe had been on patrol that had gone longer than he had expected. Sideswipe was supposed to meet up with Sunstreaker three hours ago for a race. Sideswipe hoped that Sunstreaker would not be upset with him. Sunstreaker would be very angry if he thought Sideswipe stood him up. It wasn’t his fault though. Sideswipe had come across some humans stealing technology and had to intervene. Then Prowl and the human police officers talked to him about the incident.

Sideswipe burst through the door that led to his quarters and found that Sunstreaker was not there. Sideswipe called his name but there was no answer. Was Sunstreaker mad at him and purposely ignoring him?

“Sunny” Sideswipe called. He wandered through the small area and heard what sounded like solvent running. Sideswipe walked over to the wash racks. He knocked on the door and called Sunstreaker’s name one more time. Again, Sideswipe received no answer. He pushed the door open and walked inside.

Sunstreaker stood under the solvent, his back to the door. He made no gesture that he had heard Sideswipe enter. Though Sideswipe quickly assumed that Sunstreaker was too preoccupied with cleaning his frame. Sideswipe spotted the specks of dirt on the floor and walls.

“Wow, Sunshine. What happened to you?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker turned to look at him, glaring so much the natural beauty of his faceplate could not be seen.

“Don’t. Ask. Just get over here” Sunstreaker ordered.

Sideswipe guessed that Sunstreaker was in the mood to remove limbs, possibly Sideswipe’s. So, he quickly grabbed a clean sponge from the shelf and placed it under the solvent. Soon it was soaked, Sunstreaker turned his back and Sideswipe slowly began to rub the soap-covered sponge over Sunstreaker’s frame.

Sunstreaker slowly relaxed, as he was being cleaned.

“Why are you late? I expected you to be here before me”.

“Problems during patrol. Did that happen to you?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker sighed.

“Yes. Those stupid minibots got trapped in a ditch, filled with muddy, dirty water. Of course, I was originally going to leave them there. But Prowl heard of the situation. And he ordered me to rescue the little slaggers. If they took any images. I’ll offline them”.

Sideswipe didn’t doubt that Sunstreaker would.

“And what of you?”.

“Ran into some humans stealing technology. Stopped them. Then was interrogated by the human police and Prowl”.

“For what?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Who knows? Just be glad it’s over” Sideswipe said. Then he slid the sponge over Sunstreaker’s aft plates. Sunstreaker tried not to moan.

“Stop that. You are cleaning me, not getting frisky”.

Sideswipe smirked.

“Really. You haven’t missed me”.

“Like a case of rust,” Sunstreaker shot back. However, that didn’t stop Sideswipe, sliding the sponge over Sunstreaker’s abdomen. So Sunstreaker decided to fight back. He turned around and snatched the sponge from Sideswipe’s hand.

In one swift movement, Sunstreaker slid the sponge over Sideswipe’s chest plate, smirking as he did so.

“Tease” Sideswipe muttered.

“Takes one to know one” Sunstreaker said.

Sideswipe grabbed another sponge from the rack. In minutes the two were using sponges on each other, teasing with every slide of their sponges. Moaning filled the shower as the two hit every sensitive spot.

Sunstreaker pushed Sideswipe against the wall. Sideswipe retaliated by giving him a tender kiss. The sponges were dropped as hands were occupied by metal. Sideswipe broke the kiss when Sunstreaker tried to deepen it.

“I think we are clean enough, Sunny,” Sideswipe said.

“I don’t think so,” Sunstreaker said, grinding his hips against Sideswipe’s frame.

Then an alarm rang through the Ark, a call to battle. The twins sprang apart, racing to join the Autobot crew leaving to fight the Decepticon forces.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe had not seen Sunstreaker in three weeks and he missed the slagger. Sideswipe had been away on a mission, with an order of radio silence. Sideswipe knew that Sunstreaker would act like he didn’t care that Sideswipe was gone but he knew that it was a lie.

“Sunstreaker! I’m home” Sideswipe called out as he entered their quarters. He was surprised to find that Sunstreaker was nowhere to be seen. However, Sunstreaker had left multiple sketch pads on the table. Sideswipe glanced at them and saw a lot of images of himself. Sideswipe heard a noise from the berthroom, and he quietly walked over.

Sideswipe peered in and could not believe what he saw. Sunstreaker was curled up on Sideswipe’s side of the berth with one leg sticking out. To top it off, Sunstreaker was clutching a stuffed toy red Lamborghini in his arms.

Sideswipe tried to stifle his giggling as he took some image captures. Sunstreaker portrayed himself as a powerful and tough Autobot, scowling at everyone and insulting them. Sunstreaker would always run his mouth saying that he was the best. And yet, here Sunstreaker was snuggling a stuffed toy as if he were a sparkling again. It was the most adorable thing Sideswipe had ever seen. Not to mention the best blackmail material he could ever ask for.

“Sunny... Sunflower” Sideswipe said, coming closer.

“Don’t call me that...Go away” Sunstreaker mumbled. Curling more into himself that Sideswipe heard a little creaking noise.

“It’s me”.

Sunstreaker let out a groan. Then snapped his optics open, he saw Sideswipe’s smiling faceplate and he freaked out a little when he realized what he was holding. Sunstreaker quickly hid the stuffed toy away.

“Why are you here? I thought you were returning tomorrow”.

“Returned earlier than expected,” Sideswipe said, with a cheeky grin on his faceplate.

“So, Sunshine. When did you get the toy Lamborghini?” Sideswipe asked.

“Sides” Sunstreaker growled, “What are you talking about?”.

Sideswipe smiled even more.

“Don’t deny it Sunny. I saw you cuddling that stuffed red Lamborghini. Did you steal it from Bluestreak or Bumblebee?”.

“I was NOT cuddling anything” Sunstreaker denied, “Your optics are glitched”.

“No. I don’t think so” Sideswipe said. Then he picked up the stuffed red toy Lamborghini that Sunstreaker had failed to get rid of.

Sunstreaker tried to snatch it out of Sideswipe’s hands, but he avoided it.

“Hey”.

Sunstreaker ignored him and tried again to grab the stuffed red toy Lamborghini.

“You were. And my optics are working just fine” Sideswipe said, stepping away from Sunstreaker’s reach.

“Clearly not, if you’re seeing things” Sunstreaker countered.

“Sunny. It's right here. And it’s so cute”.

Sunstreaker crossed his arms and glared.

“Say another word. AND you will be recharging on the couch” Sunstreaker threatened. Sideswipe thought about this. Did he risk recharging on the couch after a long mission? Or just let the matter drop for the time being. Up till now, Sunstreaker was ruining his tough mech image and Sideswipe couldn’t resist.

“That is the cutest thing I have ever seen,” Sideswipe said, “Sunstreaker recharges with a stuffed!”.

Sunstreaker punched Sideswipe hard and let him slide down the wall.

“I warned you, Sideswipe. You’re recharging on the couch, tonight. No blanket”.

“No, Sunny. I'm sorrrrry—it's cold on the couch” Sideswipe whined.

“Too bad”.

Sideswipe sighed and rubbed his aching dent.

“Can I at least have stuffed red toy Lamborghini?” Sideswipe asked. Sunstreaker slammed the door in his face.

Chapter Text

Filled with rage from his earlier agreement with Sideswipe, Sunstreaker strode down a corridor heading deeper into the Ark. He needed a quiet place to let out his emotions. Too bad that the training room drones were all destroyed. Not to mention that it was raining heavily and Sunstreaker refused to go outside in that weather.

Sunstreaker came to a stop when he turned down one corridor and saw Sideswipe. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe leaned against the wall as if waiting for someone. Sunstreaker watched as Tracks appeared and the two started talking. Sunstreaker quickly hid behind a wall, watching the pair.

Tracks was Sunstreaker’s worst enemy. And Sideswipe was willingly talking to him. That did not sit well with Sunstreaker. His optics narrowed and his lips tightened as he watched the pair.

Neither one of them had realized his presence. Sunstreaker noticed that Tracks had a very arrogant look on his faceplate. What he did next made Sunstreaker almost lose control of his actions.

Tracks reached out and gently cupped Sideswipe’s faceplate.

Sunstreaker was about to step in and tell Tracks to frag off. Then Sideswipe hugged him, and Tracks actually let him. Sunstreaker was surprised, that Tracks would willingly ruin his paint job by hugging Sunstreaker’s dirty twin.

Okay Sideswipe wasn’t that dirty but still, he didn’t keep his armour spotless like Sunstreaker.

Then they broke apart and Sideswipe smiled.

Sunstreaker froze that smile was the one that Sideswipe reserved for him not this show-off who thought that he was better than everyone else.

Then Tracks kissed Sideswipe on the lips.

Sunstreaker almost announced his presence as he watched Tracks ran his hands down Sideswipe’s frame. Sunstreaker heard Sideswipe’s desperate breathy gasps as Tracks touched every sensitive part of Sideswipe’s frame.

Sunstreaker felt his own systems react as he watched the pair kiss as if there was no tomorrow. Sunstreaker wanted to offline Tracks on the spot and let Sideswipe watch in horror.

The pair let go of each other when there was an abrupt commotion coming from close by.

Other Autobots, no doubt.

Sunstreaker looked back at the pair to find that Sideswipe had disappeared, and Tracks was walking away.

If Sunstreaker hadn’t gone this way, he would have never found out about these two. Sunstreaker fell back against the wall not knowing what to think about what he had just witnessed his twin doing.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Noble Artist Sunstreaker
• Business mech Sideswipe

The glittering decorations reflected on Sideswipe's face as he sat at his table, fiddling with the energon flute in his servo. Sideswipe sat there ignoring the bright gala, the sounds of screams and lilting music, and especially a tall golden and black mech that shined like the sun.  

Sunstreaker seemed to be always in his view. No matter where Sideswipe looked, he’d always see the handsome golden mech. Sideswipe observed Sunstreaker laughing or chatting to the other guests at the party. It was almost as if Sunstreaker was tormenting his existence. It nearly made Sideswipe want a date.

It wasn’t as if Sideswipe had come to this extravagant party alone. He had managed to find an available femme from his many friends. Paradox was a sweet femme with dark purple and white armour. Also, she was attentive to Sideswipe. Paradox would interlace their digits together when she was standing next to him. Paradox would whisper secrets that would make Sideswipe snort or chastise her loudly. However, it all changed when a group of unfairly handsome tower mechs caught her attention. Sideswipe felt no irritation at being left alone. He was avoiding looking at her but that was for entirely different reasons.

Somewhere on the dance floor, Paradox was grinding a handsome tower mech. And wouldn't that be awkward? For Sideswipe to watch her as she created scratches on some Tower mech’s chest-plate.

Raceabout had no such qualms. Sideswipe’s best friend had already done his job, making connections with the upper-class mechs and getting overcharged because or it. Raceabout was now overcharged, slurring his words and his vocalizer kept glitching. Raceabout was not too happy that Paradox had left Sideswipe alone. Though Sideswipe suspected that Raceabout had feelings for Paradox.

"I jus' don't get what she sees in 'im," Raceabout paused to take a swig of what seemed to be his eighteenth cube, “e’s jus’ a slag ric’ mech. Wha's there to LIKE?"

Sideswipe forced himself to count to ten for what might have been the hundredth time that night.

“That tower mechs are hot, remember you were drooling after that Tracks mech a few cycles ago” Sideswipe pointed out.

"I wouldn't drool aft'r a mech that short." Raceabout scoffed.

However, Sideswipe grinned, “So you're not opposed to mechs then, Raceabout?"

“Maybe if they’re taller” Raceabout glanced toward the gold and black noble under Sideswipe’s constant gaze.

Sideswipe snorted loudly, with dislike. "I can't say I agree”.

Raceabout continued “Your gettin’ me distracted Sides. Slaggin’ HOT tower mechs, ugly sparks”.

Then Raceabout stared at his friend for an affirmative response.

“You’re right”.

“I know”.

A moment passed and when Raceabout said nothing else, Sideswipe started to fiddle with the now cold energon flute in his servos. Sideswipe didn't much feel like drinking it and had really only gotten it out of politeness for Paradox. Sideswipe’s thoughts were interrupted by a very familiar clearing of a vocalizer.

Sideswipe glanced away from the energon flute to find Sunstreaker standing in front of him with all the arrogance and pristine of his usual self.

“Sideswipe”.

“Sunstreaker”.

Sideswipe sighed but nodded toward the empty seat next to him, in which Sunstreaker took. Raceabout despite not having been acknowledged, giggled from his other side, "Oooh the tall mech."

“Excuse me” Sunstreaker spluttered.

“Sorry, ignore him. He’s little overcharged” Sideswipe said, while trying to hide his embarrassment. Why couldn’t Raceabout keep his overcharged nonsense to himself?

“So, you seem bored”.

"I'm not in the mood for a duel right now if that's what you're asking” Sideswipe said.

Sunstreaker put both his servos in front of him in faux surrender.

“Excuse me, Sideswipe. I wouldn't expect you to understand decency, but I am just carrying the conversation”.

Sideswipe hummed. “I observed that you brought Harmony. Is she not good enough company for your haughtiness?".

Sunstreaker snorted and leaned toward him, "I can't say she's nearly as interesting as you are Sideswipe”.

“Oh really?” Sideswipe countered, noticing that Sunstreaker was getting awfully close to him. Sideswipe could smell the expensive wax, wafting from his frame.

“Unfortunately,”, Sunstreaker smirked, "I see your date has left you for some rich tower mech”.

“So, you decided to grace me with your company then?".

Sunstreaker nodded. Sideswipe was thinking of telling Sunstreaker to politely leave. However, he noticed that Raceabout was watching the two of them, closely with a sly smile on his faceplate.

“Y’Know, Sunny, Sides here,” Raceabout said while thrusting his servo onto Sideswipe’s faceplate. It covered Sideswipe’s cheek. “talks about you a lot”.

“Does he now?” Sunstreaker said, looking interested.

“Yes- “.

 “No. I do not- “.

“Sides”, Raceabout moved his servo, so it was now over his lips, “Let me speak, ya? I'm doing good work”.

Sideswipe tried to remove the servo on his faceplate while Sunstreaker looked amused.

“So, What does he say about me, Raceabout?”.

“He talks about your lovely finish, the confidence you walk with." Sideswipe made a muffled sound of protest, "And he's always keeping track of where you go-".

Sideswipe smacked the servo that was holding his lips hostage. He tried to defend himself.

“I do not. You’re overthinking things Raceabout”.

Sunstreaker ignored him, focusing on listening to Raceabout talk. "Yes, sure, that would definitely be the only reason he likes staring at you as you go."

“Like to watch me go Sideswipe?” Sunstreaker asked with a smirk. Sideswipe was mortified, he couldn’t react.

“Like my aft plates then?”.

“NO,” Sideswipe said, a little too loudly.

“Yes actually-“.

“No. Raceabout stop. I’m never letting you drink again”.

Raceabout chortled and started standing up, "Before I go, Sunstreaker. You should give Sides here a dance. He pretends that he doesn't want to, but it really would make this event rememberable”.

 Raceabout smiled as he walked away. Sideswipe didn’t know what to do. Sunstreaker stood up as well. Sideswipe was surprised when a golden servo appeared in his line of vision.

“Would you care to dance, Sideswipe?”.

Sideswipe stared at the golden servo before placing his black servo on it.

“Yes”.

Sideswipe was pulled to his peds and led to the dancefloor.

Chapter Text

“SUNSTREAKER”.

Sunstreaker spun around so quickly at that voice that he heard his neck cables creak. A weapon in his hand, drawn instinctively protecting himself. It was an instinct Sunstreaker had developed over the many vorns. Sunstreaker was met with a very familiar red, white, and black frame with a set of optics very similar to his own. Sunstreaker lowered the weapon, swiftly. Luckily, he hadn’t pressed his digit on the trigger.

Sunstreaker looked at his twin, who was venting heavily, and his optics were too bright. Sideswipe had hints of optic fluid gathered on his neck cables and chest plate. Sideswipe’s faceplate showed his hurt and rage. Sunstreaker could see the way Sideswipe’s optics were searching for answers in his.

Sunstreaker knew exactly why Sideswipe was here, the frantic way he called out to his name, the desperation in his voice, had given it all away. Sunstreaker had done something Sideswipe would never forgive him for.

“Sides... Sideswipe. I can explain,” Sunstreaker carefully spoke, trying to calm his twin down.

“If you would listen carefully, I—".

“I know what you did! I know” Sideswipe shouted, venting heavily. “You attacked him, didn’t you? It was you”.

Sideswipe’s frame shook with fury. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe balled his fists. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe struggled to keep his anger to a minimum.

“What? No. Let me explain- “ Sunstreaker stopped, he couldn’t tell his twin. Sunstreaker stepped forward slowly, cautiously, only to see Sideswipe take two steps back. It was too late, the trust between the both of them had shattered right then and there.

Sideswipe shook his helm.

“NO! NO! So, you did! I can't believe it. I can't believe you! I trusted you…I cared about you…even—".

Sideswipe stopped; he looked ready to punch Sunstreaker’s helm clean off. His piledrivers were active, meaning he could do it.  Sunstreaker was very concerned, he had never seen Sideswipe act like this before. It was never Sunstreaker’s intention for Sideswipe to find out, but the way the Autobot gossip spread around and Sideswipe's own popularity, he was bound to find out.

“Tell me” Sideswipe ordered, in a low voice that Sunstreaker almost didn’t catch it.

“Tell you what?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Why you did it?” Sideswipe asked.

There was a heavy silence between them. Sunstreaker thought about the question long and hard, but there was no way he could tell Sideswipe the real truth.

“Sides I can’t. It’s... complicated” Sunstreaker said, that was the best he could do at this moment.

“Complicated” Sideswipe sneered, “Blue. He was- he was innocent! You had no right!”

Then Sideswipe swung, luckily Sunstreaker dodged and created space between them.

“There’s so much more going on than you think!" Sunstreaker spat. He took three steps back.

“Oh really? What is it then? Are you jealous? Are you angry?” Sideswipe shot back.

“As if. Sides” Sunstreaker said. He needed Sideswipe to see reason. But how? He couldn’t tell his twin at all. Sunstreaker was alone in this. Sideswipe would never understand why he did it. Sunstreaker needed to do it, ensuring that Bluestreak stayed away from what was his.

“No, you don't get to call me that!" Sideswipe yelled so loudly that it echoed in the corridor.

“You are a slag-sucking, AFT,” Sideswipe said with so much anger that Sunstreaker had never felt before, “I hate you!”.

Before Sunstreaker could say anything, Sideswipe walked away. Sunstreaker heard those words echo in his helm. The sound of Sideswipe’s footsteps faded with every step. It was done. Sunstreaker knew that he would never be forgiven for this. Maybe Sideswipe would figure out why Sunstreaker done such a thing, attacking Bluestreak of all Autobots. Sunstreaker was foolish to think that he could hide this from Sideswipe.

Sunstreaker turned around and straightened his frame. He was a fool, Sideswipe was right he was an Aft. Sunstreaker wished he could take everything back, but the damage had been done. Sunstreaker thought about how he had just lost the only thing he ever truly gave a damn about in this universe, the only thing he tried to protect, gone. Sunstreaker felt numb. The pain of losing Sideswipe had cost him too dearly.

Chapter Text

“It’s nice that we get to refuel without the offspring”.

Sideswipe glared at his partner Sunstreaker, but he didn’t agree. Sideswipe missed his offspring; he wondered what they were doing. Was Sideburn misbehaving? Or Sunstrike refusing to put away his crayons and go to bed.

It had been a while since the twins had time to themselves. So Bluestreak had offered to youngling sit for a time. Sideswipe had agreed, so the twins had sparred in the training room, then had a race. Now they were relaxing on the Ark roof having a drink and looking up at the stars.

“Sides. Are you paying attention”.

“I am Sunstreaker”.

“Then what’s wrong? Don’t tell me that you want our hellish offspring here”.

Sideswipe frowned.

“Don’t call them hellish. They are perfect”.

Sunstreaker shot him a look.

“They get their mischievous nature from somewhere. And it is not me”.

To be fair, Sideburn was a cute sparkling but now he is a youngling his behaviour changed. Sideburn acted exactly like Sideswipe, always playing pranks or creating mischief. Sideburn had placed plastic wrap over Sunstrike’s paint tubes, so he couldn’t use them. It ended with Sunstrike being covered in green paint after he had squeezed the tube too hard causing it to explode. Sideburn did the same to Sunstreaker’s art supplies, but he was wiser and avoided being sprayed with paint.

“Fair but it didn’t all come from me. I recall that you took part in various pranks” Sideswipe pointed out.

“True. But your youngling is an exact copy of you” Sunstreaker said. Sideswipe was about to reply when he heard something.

“SIRE.. CARRIER... Where are you?”

“Don’t you dare” Sunstreaker hissed.

“Found them” Sideburn called out.

Sunstreaker glared at Sideswipe like it was his fault as the two younglings joined them.

“What are you doing up here? It is fun?”

“Burner” Sunstrike hissed, slapping a hand over his younger brother’s mouth. Then he yelped as Sideburn bit him.

“Ouch”.

“Sideburn. No biting” Sunstreaker stepped in. Both younglings quickly stood straight and sheepishly looked at their stern carrier.

“Now. Now. Why are you two here?” Sideswipe asked, being the good guy to Sunstreaker’s bad guy. He had gotten rid of the cubes; it was not suitable for younglings.

“And where is Bluestreak?” Sunstreaker asked.

The two younglings looked sheepish. Sideswipe looked a little concerned. Sunstreaker was not impressed.

“He’s tied up” Sunstrike began.

“At the moment” Sideburn finished.

“What did you two do?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Well, we were playing cops and robbers. Bluestreak was the cop, and we were the robbers” Sunstrike said, starting to explain.

“But we won. Then we had to tie up our cop, so we tied him to a chair” Sideburn interrupted.

“After knocking him out first” Sunstrike added.

Sideswipe was amazed that his two younglings would do that to poor innocent Bluestreak.  Sunstreaker was not happy with Sideswipe’s offspring. They ruined his night.

“You two are in trouble” Sunstreaker said, grabbing both younglings by the back of their necks and hurling them up. Then Sunstreaker marched back to their quarters with Sideswipe in tow. They rescued poor Bluestreak who swore never to watch the twin's offspring again.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Autobot Sideswipe
• Decepticon Sunstreaker

The dim lights of the city shone, amidst hazes of red, purple, and white.

Shouts and moans filled the ruined city area.

The sounds of explosions echoed as well.

Another battlefield where the Autobots and Decepticons clashed.

The once proud Crystal City was slowly becoming ruined.

Sunstreaker could see him, his red paint job blazing, his dark blue optics glowing.

Sunstreaker could see him, but he knew he could never touch Sideswipe, with his loyalties. Sideswipe was out of bounds.

And Sunstreaker stared in disgust at the purple symbol on his arm.

He was tainted, polluted, a corruption of his very spark and CPU.

Who would want him?

Quickly it seemed that Decepticon soldiers cornered him. Sideswipe was blocked from Sunstreaker’s view.

Sunstreaker decided to take a chance, prove to him that he cared, and he had cared since the cycle they had opened their optics for the first time.

Becoming a blur, Sunstreaker discarded his loyalties in one foul swoop.

Energon spilled out onto the ground as Sunstreaker approached the downed Sideswipe.

Sunstreaker reached out with stained servo and touched Sideswipe's beaten frame. It was becoming cold. Sideswipe was offling.

“No” Sunstreaker shouted. Then picking up Sideswipe’s damaged frame, Sunstreaker sprinted to somewhere they would not be found.

Sunstreaker found an abandoned still still-standing building. Wasting no time, Sunstreaker entered as the screams for medics could be heard. Sunstreaker found a clean safe room and gently placed Sideswipe on the floor.

In the dim light, Sunstreaker stared at him. Sideswipe was slowly offling, the colour fading from his frame.

What had those Decepticons done to him?

Sunstreaker didn’t know, but he wasn’t going to let Sideswipe offline. He couldn’t offline, Sideswipe was Sunstreaker’s tie to the universe, the other half of his existence.

Sunstreaker saw a flicking light in the shattered remains of Sideswipe’s chest plate. Carefully Sunstreaker removed the pieces of armour, revealing Sideswipe’s spark chamber that had been pierced by a sharp object.

Slowly and unsurely, Sunstreaker placed his servos onto Sideswipe’s frame. He gently removed the metal shards from Sideswipe’s spark chamber while removing his own. Sunstreaker’s spark shone like a bright sun compared to the flickering spark of Sideswipe. Sunstreaker aligned their frames and then their sparks came into contact with each other.

Sunstreaker poured out all of his emotions through their bond.

The words he couldn’t say aloud, the feelings he’d restrained since creation, all fell into Sideswipe as he gave the spark of life.

"I need you. I want you. I love you, please, come back to me," Sunstreaker said out loud as well through the bond.

Slowly but surely Sunstreaker felt warmness return to Sideswipe’s damaged frame. Sunstreaker looked down to see Sideswipe’s blue optics looking into his.

Then an explosion. Sunstreaker darted away while Sideswipe struggled to stand.

“Autobot Sideswipe”

“Medic”

A group of Autobots were coming. Sunstreaker gave one last glance to his twin before fleeing out of the broken window.

Sunstreaker landed on the crumbling street below, he looked up to see a group of Autobots surround Sideswipe. He watched as Sideswipe was carried away.

“I Love you” Sunstreaker whispered, but the one who was supposed to hear it could not. He heard the calls from his fellow Decepticons, he knew he had to return. Sunstreaker turned his back and rejoined the Decepticons as the city crumbled around them.

One side would win, and one side would lose.

Today the Decepticons were victorious. Today Sunstreaker and Sideswipe were enemies.

A cry of victory rose from the Decepticons while the Autobots fled. A flash of purple and the Decepticon symbol shone above the crumbling ruins of a once proud city.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Pairings Bluestreak and the twins.
• Bluestreak should really control his actions
• Decepticon Sunstreaker

Bluestreak was obsessed.

Not in an unhealthy way, but unusually preoccupied with it, nonetheless.

According to Sunstreaker, it had almost offlined him permanently when it happened. That was why Bluestreak was so consumed with curiosity. He desperately wanted to know how it felt whether it pained him anymore. Lying between his lovers in their monstrous berth, Bluestreak saw an opportunity to sate his overwhelming thirst for knowledge as the dim lights illuminated Sunstreaker’s open chest plate.

The Decepticon symbol.

Bluestreak longed to touch it, study it... why Bluestreak wanted to was a mystery to him, but the compulsion grew daily. Bluestreak had tried to talk about it, but Sideswipe hated the topic. Sunstreaker would either act violently or avoid Bluestreak for a while. Bluestreak was forbidden to say anything about it. Sideswipe threatened him if he told anyone about Sunstreaker’s symbol.

It was only during the night that Bluestreak could peak at it. Sunstreaker liked to remove pieces of armour when recharging. This allowed Bluestreak unlimited access to observe at his spark’s content.

Shifting gently, Bluestreak moved closer to Sunstreaker’s recharging frame. Behind him, Sideswipe budged closer, splaying his fingers across Bluestreak’s frame. He glanced up to see if Sunstreaker had noticed but he was silent as well was Sideswipe. Slowly Bluestreak removed the heavy armour away from Sunstreaker’s chest. Bluestreak’s optics focused on every inch of protoform that was revealed.

Sunstreaker’s protoform was covered in scars from the various wounds he had received throughout his lifetime. However, what captured Bluestreak’s attention was the purple Decepticon symbol in the centre of Sunstreaker’s chest, just above his spark chamber. That symbol was what Bluestreak wanted. It haunted his memories, but he was fascinated by it.

Bluestreak reached out to gently trace it with his finger only for him to gasp in pain. Sideswipe had grabbed his doorwings.

“Don’t” Sideswipe warned, “If you wake him, he’ll kick you out. And I’ll let him”.

“Too late” a voice growled.

Bluestreak looked up to see an angry Sunstreaker.

“I’m sorry. I... I didn’t” Bluestreak stammered.

“Get Out” Sunstreaker snapped.

Bluestreak was frozen with fear, then he was flying and he landed on the floor. His doorwings had finger-sized dents in them. Bluestreak looked up to see both twins, looking murderous. Bluestreak fled, like his spark was going to end. Bluestreak never shared a berth with the twins again, he ruined their relationship because of his obsession.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Noble artist Sunstreaker
• Business mech Sideswipe

Sideswipe sat nervously on the couch in his little apartment. Sunstreaker was unusually late, and he hadn't received any sort of communication since they set up their date. Sideswipe tapped his peds and twiddled his digits as the cycle slowly passed. Sideswipe sat up straight as the door opened. Sideswipe strode over to the door with a smile on his faceplate.

“Hi,” Sunstreaker greeted.

“You’re late. I was worried” Sideswipe said as Sunstreaker slipped past him.

Sideswipe noticed that something was wrong.

“What’s wrong?” Sideswipe asked. Sunstreaker grabbed a cube from the table and started drinking.

“Nothing Sides” Sunstreaker dismissed, while placing his empty cube on the table. He reached for another, but Sideswipe stopped him.

“Really Sunny” Sideswipe pressed.

“I- we- this- can’t...” Sunstreaker struggled to find his words.

Sideswipe stepped back, giving Sunstreaker some space.

“This... this is the last time, Sideswipe. I can’t keep doing this” Sunstreaker managed to say.

“Why not?” Sideswipe asked, not liking where this was going.

“I have to meet certain expectations due to my social standing”.

“And I don’t meet them. Is that right?” Sideswipe interrupted.

Sunstreaker struggled to say something, but Sideswipe knew that answer.

“I see,” Sideswipe said.

“No... Look... we can still” Sunstreaker tried to say.

Sideswipe glared at him.

“No. You want something to your standard. And I don’t qualify. I’m just a low-end business mech. While you’re an elite artist and noble mech”.

Sunstreaker didn’t say anything making Sideswipe clench his fists.

“I... I’m... sorry Sideswipe. This is over” Sunstreaker managed to say.

“Fine. Then leave. And don’t come crawling back” Sideswipe said, “The doors that way” Sideswipe indicated with a tilt of his helm. Sunstreaker walked away, closing the door behind him. Sideswipe waited until he was gone before he raged. The couch was overturned along with the table. Cubes of high grade spilled onto the floor, creating a mess. Sideswipe leaned against the wall and sobbed his spark out. He should have known better than to be romantically involved with a noble mech.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Decepticon Sunstreaker
• Autobot Sideswipe

Sideswipe struggled against the chains that restricted his frame.

“No. Don’t!” Sideswipe begged making the Cybertron’s with purple symbols laugh. The last few cycles had been worse than the gladiator rings. Sideswipe’s group had been ambushed, and betrayed by someone who should have been trustworthy. They had all fought as best they could. Sideswipe was one of the few that was left online, as the rest had gone to the scrapheap.

Sideswipe was concerned about the few survivors, but he should focus on himself.  Sideswipe had thought that this was a war where there would be no prisoners, yet here he was. Sideswipe stumbled and then yelped as he was roughly yanked to his peds. All the other prisoners Sideswipe had seen were naturals, very few had been Autobots. Sideswipe even saw mechs and femmes with some sort of symbol craved into their frames. He suspected that they may be slaves or marked for death. 

Sideswipe had been sharing a minuscule, cold, barren chamber with eight prisoners. Six were mechs while two were femmes. They either were Autobots or Neutrals. Sideswipe had tried to ask but had revived electric shocks from their captors.

This was the first time since Sideswipe had been taken that he was allowed outside that chamber. Though it felt good to finally be able to move again, by forcefully handled by three Decepticons was terrifying. It didn’t make him feel any better that they were scrutinizing him like a turbo fox, like he was prey, and they were the predators.

Sideswipe heard the crack of a whip which snapped him out of his thoughts. As far as Sideswipe could tell they were all Decepticons, every single one of them. Sideswipe shuddered. The Decepticons were drinking and shouting their merriment. Sideswipe scanned the room, the Deception leader Megatron wasn’t here.

Two Decepticons roughly pushed and dragged Sideswipe to the middle of the room. There were so many Decepticons. In the middle of the room was a circle, Sideswipe was pushed forward. The chains were connected to the rusting points on the floor. Sideswipe stood directly on the circle.

Sideswipe fought a useless battle against his restraints, causing bursts of laughter. This felt like the time he was sold to the gladiator pits, but he was alone this time, Sunstreaker was not with him.

There seemed to be some loud discussion between the Decepticons. Then a large, hulking Deception said something, and it was settled. Sideswipe assumed that this Decepticon was in charge.

A Decepticon stepped forward. A tall, dark gold.... No, it could be him. Sideswipe stared as he came closer, his demeanor calm and cold and his optics dispassionate. Sunstreaker. Sideswipe scanned him trying to find something that hinted that Sunstreaker was still the mech he knew. Surely Sunstreaker couldn’t do this. They were twins. They had grown up together. Fought in the gladiator pits. Survived the streets of Koan together. He was here, though. He was a Decepticon.

“Please... don’t...” Sideswipe pleaded to him, but his words had no effect. Sunstreaker brought out an ornate energon knife and played with it, watching Sideswipe. All around them, there was jeering, laughter, and a general ruckus. Was Sunstreaker going to cut him? Panicking, Sideswipe tried again. "Please!".

Sunstreaker stepped closer to Sideswipe, looking down at him. Sunstreaker’s expression never changing.

“It’s me,” Sunstreaker said coolly, “or them”. Sunstreaker gestured vaguely with the knife to one side. Sideswipe followed the motion, seeing the greedy, cruel faces of the on-lookers. Sideswipe shuddered.

“I thought so”.

Before Sunstreaker could do anything, explosions rocked the area. The cries of prisoners were overwhelming. Decepticons rushed to grab whatever weapons they had. Sideswipe was surprised as the chains were cut free, he looked up to his twin.

“What are you waiting for? Get out of here”.

Then Sunstreaker turned and fired his blaster. Sideswipe ran, finding some fellow prisoners and escaping from the Decepticon base. Sideswipe didn’t look back, he couldn’t look back.

Chapter Text

“You have got to be joking”

Sunstreaker jumped slightly at the shrill, disapproving-bordering-on-livid sound of his twin, Sideswipe’s voice. Turning in his comfortable perch on the sofa, Sunstreaker arched an aristocratic optic ridge as Sideswipe stalked towards him.

“What?” Sunstreaker asked as Sideswipe stopped placing his hands on his hips.

“Don’t you ‘what’ me” Sideswipe snapped, “Have you forgotten something?”.

“Don’t think so” Sunstreaker said, shifting his position in case Sideswipe decided to be violent.

After a split second, Sunstreaker added.

“Clearly you're angry at something I may or may not have done, so why don't you just tell me what it is so that we can yell at each other".

Sideswipe heaved a heavy sigh and shifted his weight to one leg. He let his hand fall away from his hips.

“Sunny. What is the date today?” Sideswipe asked with a hint of frustration.

“Umm. Are we talking Cybertronian or Earth”. Sideswipe glared at him, so Sunstreaker said, “The 30th”.

“And the Earth Day” Sideswipe added.

“Saturday,” Sunstreaker said.

“And what time is it?” Sideswipe asked.

“Umm.. nineteen hundred hours”.

“I thought I told you that we were expected to be somewhere at eighteen hundred hours on Saturday the 30th”.

Sunstreaker frowned slightly. Having spent his entire lifespan with his twin, Sunstreaker had perfected the art of when and how to tune him out.

“You didn’t listen to me did you” Sideswipe snapped.

Sunstreaker recalled that Sideswipe did mention something about that date.

“I did. And No” Sunstreaker said definitively, standing up for effect as he braced himself for the argument that was sure to come. "I already said there was no way I was going”.

“No. This time you said you'd think about it," Sideswipe said.

"Fine. I said I'd think about it. I thought about it, and there's no way I'm going”.

“Sunny. You say that about every single time we get invited to anything! I was looking forward to going to this with you” Sideswipe complained.

“Sideswipe. You know how I feel about these damned things, and more specifically, how I feel about our…comrades”.

“Oh, do grow up,” Sideswipe said, “I told you it wasn’t a big event. And we are twins. I am sick of showing up without you”.

“Excuse me” Sunstreaker cried, “I spend most of my time with you”.

Sunstreaker started ticking things on his fingers

“We share ration time. We spend shifts together. We wash at the same time”

“Only because you don’t let anyone else touch you” Sideswipe interrupted.

Sunstreaker gave Sideswipe a level look. This was an argument that they continued to have, though both of them were getting thoroughly tired of it. It revolved around Sunstreaker and his lack of interest in socializing.

That night was a surprise party for Jazz. Sunstreaker could think of a of few things that he would enjoy less than a party.

“Sides may I remind you of a certain saboteur that finds no limit of pleasure in pulling prank after prank every time I see him because of you”.

“Don't exaggerate. It's not every time…"

"The big bonfire celebrating the latest battle?"

Sideswipe threw his hands in the air.

“The green paint bombs were fun. It was not Jazz’s fault you got hit by accident” Sideswipe argued.

“And before that, the added glitter that accidentally found its way into my cube of high grade”.

“An accident. Blue was carrying a glitter to spread around the rec room while we celebrated Valentine’s Day”.

“That Jazz asked him to do” Sunstreaker added, “And the time I was locked in my alt mode and taken to a chop shop”.

“Wheeljack invented a device that locked a bot in their vehicle mode. You accidentally got hit with that when Jazz tested it. Remember it didn’t work”.

“It did. After a few hours,” Sunstreaker shuddered. He still had nightmares of those scary humans and their cutting tools.

“Sideswipe. I would never go to that party if you drugged me and dragged me there!”.

“Don’t tempt me” Sideswipe snapped. He sighed and shook his helm.

“I give up. If you don't want to go, that's fine. I was just hoping that maybe you'd change your mind”.

Sunstreaker scoffed quietly, mumbling a quiet "Like that would ever happen..." and moving back to sit again.

“I hoped it wouldn’t come to this,” Sideswipe said. Sunstreaker watched as Sideswipe pulled out a data pad from his subspace. Sunstreaker’s optics focused on the fact that Sideswipe was selecting a file.

“Come to what?” Sunstreaker asked, feeling a little nervous.

“Well... I was thinking of showing this around the ARK”.

Then an image appeared. It showed Sunstreaker recharging, sucking his thumb, and clutching his blanket like it was a soft toy.

Sunstreaker felt his fuel pump freeze if Sideswipe showed that around the ARK, he would be ruined.

“Delete that right now” Sunstreaker shouted, reaching for the datapad. Sideswipe successfully kept it out of Sunstreaker’s reach.

“Nope,” Sideswipe said, returning the data pad into his subspace.

Sunstreaker growled, thinking of ways to make Sideswipe’s life a living hell.

“Does this mean you're coming to the party?" Sideswipe asked innocently, though her smile never dimmed.

Sunstreaker paused, he knew that Sideswipe had won. Resigning himself to the inevitable, he sighed.

"Yes. but you are deleting that image. Or I’ll slag you so bad, you’ll be under Ratchet’s tender care for a month” Sunstreaker threatened.

“Okay,” Sideswipe said, “Let’s go we are already late as it is”.

Sunstreaker huffed as they exited their quarters. This party was going to be the pits.

Chapter Text

The little red sparkling smiles up at the large golden mech, making a pick-me-up gesture. That smile makes Sunstreaker smile and just for a moment, he appreciates it.

“Carrier, tell me the story again”

Sunstreaker already knew the answer, but he asked anyway.

“Which one, my little sparkling?” Sunstreaker picked up the little red sparkling, cuddling him tightly against his golden chest plate.

“The one about you and Sire, and how I got my name”.

“Okay but let’s get you tucked in first”.

Sunstreaker places the little red sparkling on the berth and gently pulls the covers over him. The little red sparkling snuggles into the warm covers and stifles a yawn.

“Is someone a little too tired for story time”.

“No. Never” the little red sparkling says, looking horrified. Storytime was the best time, carrier was the best at telling stories. Sunstreaker watches as the little red sparkling settles down, then he begins.

“Once upon a time....”

As Sunstreaker tells the story, images flash through his CPU.

The first day we met, opening their optics together.

The day they signed up to join the Autobots.

The first time he admitted his feelings.

Their first actual date.

Their first proper kiss.

The time when they found out Sunstreaker was carrying.

Their matching optics, now with an extra tiny set making their double a trio.

The bright smile. The same one Sunstreaker sees as he tells the little red sparkling the story of their love.

The day Sunstreaker was told that Sideswipe was offline and that he would never see their creation.

“And that was how you got your name. Because you look so much like your Sire, I gave you part of his name”.

“What did Sire look like Carrier?”.

Sunstreaker smiles as images fill his CPU.

“He looked just like you little one. He was a dark red than you. But he had a different helm design, you got helm fins instead of horns. But you have his smile. Every time I see your smile, I see your Sire”.

Sunstreaker’s little red sparkling smiled at him and just for a moment, Sunstreaker saw Sideswipe smiling at him.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker sighed at Sideswipe.

“You’re so immature,” Sunstreaker said, sighing. Sideswipe chuckled.

“Come on, it’ll be fun, they won’t know,” Sideswipe said, subtly pointing to the SIC and TIC walking past their table in the rec room.

“Oh right. They won’t realize that we’re suddenly- “

“Que empecemos a hablar español” (That we start speaking Spanish). Sideswipe said.  

“Je ne comprends pas ce que tu viens de dire“(I don’t understand what you just said) Sunstreaker said.

Sideswipe needed clarification. This wasn't part of the plan. 

“¿Era francés o italiano?” (Was that French or Italian).

“Non capisco cosa hai detto” (I don’t understand what you said) Sunstreaker repeated.

“Why didn’t you download Spanish? It is one of the few available to us” Sideswipe complained.

“Parce que j'ai visité l'Italie et la France pour voir l'art humain” (Because I have visited Italy and France to see human art) Sunstreaker answered.

“Wait what did you say?”

“Honnêtement, tu es tellement inculte. Je ne sais pas comment je suis lié à toi” (Honestly, you are so uncultured. I don’t know how I’m related to you) Sunstreaker said.

“Parfois je me le demande aussi” (Sometimes I wonder that as well) Prowl cut in.

“Prowl what did you say?” Sideswipe asked, giving up speaking Spanish entirely.

“N'est-ce pas? Mon idiot de frère ici ne pouvait pas faire la différence entre les styles Abstraction et Abstrait” (I know right. My idiot brother here couldn’t tell the difference between Abstraction and Abstract styles) Sunstreaker said.

“Did you just insult me?” Sideswipe asked. One of those words sounded like ‘Idiot’

“C'est bon, Sides” (It’s okay Sides) Jazz cut in, “Vous ne devriez vraiment pas jouer avec ces langues, sinon vous pourriez finir par devenir un imbécile” (You really shouldn’t mess with these languages, or you may end up the fool).  

Now Sideswipe knew he had been insulted, he knew what an imbecile was, even if Jazz had said it in French. Sideswipe glared, as Prowl and Sunstreaker continued to chat. This prank had gone poorly, and he made a note to check that Sunstreaker could speak the same language as him.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• An unexpected sequel to Numb

"Sunstreaker"

Sideswipe was angry. He sometimes hated his twin with a passion, and what he had done to Bluestreak was not acceptable. So, Sideswipe followed him when Sunstreaker walked away. Sideswipe found him in the wash racks, in front of a mirror. Sunstreaker's servos were clutching the sink.

Sideswipe scoffed, trust his twin to be in front of a mirror. Sideswipe was considering what exactly he wanted to do when he looked into Sunstreaker's blue optics filled with fear. Sunstreaker was staring at the image that the mirror reflected. Never had Sideswipe seen something like this in the optics of his twin. Sideswipe couldn't believe this was the same bot that he knew. Sideswipe only knew a strong, self-convinced Sunstreaker, not the twin he could see in the mirror now. This unexpected image confused him, and Sideswipe felt his anger decreasing.

"Leave me alone," Sideswipe heard Sunstreaker's harsh voice say.

However, Sideswipe didn't move. He didn't know why, but he just couldn't. It was like his peds were glued to the floor.

"Leave me alone!" Sunstreaker repeated, now even louder than before.

Sideswipe stood still, not planning to move.

So Sunstreaker moved instead. He angrily stepped away from his reflection towards him. Even though Sunstreaker scared him, Sideswipe couldn't move. Sunstreaker brutally gripped Sideswipe's shoulders and shouted:

"What is your problem? Why can't you just disappear and leave me alone?".

Sunstreaker's faceplate was only a few centimetres away from his now. Sideswipe could feel his hot breath and hear his vents straining to dispel the heat. Sideswipe saw little hints of optical fluid on Sunstreaker's faceplate. Sideswipe felt his spark spin faster. He wondered if Sunstreaker's spark was spinning as fast as his.

Suddenly, Sideswipe felt a desire to reach out and touch him. So, Sideswipe's right servo moved until it made contact with Sunstreaker's golden chest plate. Sunstreaker winced and let go.

"What in Primus's name are you doing? I told you to leave, so what are you waiting for?".

"But what if I don't want to leave?" Sideswipe found himself asking. Why did he say that? What was wrong with him?

"But I want you to leave," Sunstreaker said.

"I don't believe you."

"I don't care," Sunstreaker snapped.

"You do".

Sideswipe carefully approached him and saw that Sunstreaker was trembling.

"Sunny...".

"What?" Sunstreaker screamed. Sideswipe saw a whole range of emotions, flash across Sunstreaker's face plate. Fear, doubt, anger, horror, frailty. That's what Sideswipe saw in his optics. Abandoning himself to an impulse, Sideswipe threw his arms around his twin. Sunstreaker tried to free himself, but there was no chance because Sideswipe held him even more tightly, unwilling to let go of him.

Sunstreaker's resistance decreased more and more and after banging his helm against Sideswipes' shoulders. Sunstreaker stopped fighting, and his tears started to fall again. Sunstreaker cried for a while. Sideswipe caressed his back, his neck, and his helm. When there were no more tears left to cry, Sunstreaker raised his helm and looked into identical blue optics. Then Sideswipe leaned in and started to kiss him softly.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe trudged through the front door of their apartment. It wasn’t that he had a hard cycle at work; running a trading business was exciting and busy. It was simply because his systems were playing up. Sideswipe’s frame was shivering like he was cold but venting heavily like his inner temperature was too high.

Sideswipe wandered over to the kitchen area to find Sunstreaker sitting on a stool. He was drinking a cube of high grade. Sunstreaker placed the cube on the counter with a small smile at seeing his twin. It fell upon seeing Sideswipe’s condition.

“Are you alright, Sideswipe?” Sunstreaker asked, with a little bit of worry. His long legs allowed him to cross the metal floor quickly, and he was beside Sideswipe within a few seconds. Sunstreaker pulled Sideswipe closer while scanning his frame. Sideswipe barely even uttered a protest; his CPU was feeling too cluttered.

“Your systems are out of spec. I can feel that you are too cold in places”.

Sunstreaker pulled back and scanned Sideswipe.

“I think you have a virus. You shouldn’t have gone anywhere,” Sunstreaker scolded.

“But there was an important meeting with a supplier,” Sideswipe said so quietly that Sunstreaker almost didn’t hear it.

“I was fine until I was halfway home.”

“Then you should have commed me. Or better yet go to a medical centre” Sunstreaker said.

“I can’t; it's too expensive,” Sideswipe pointed out. Sunstreaker scowled. Sideswipe had a point. However, now Sunstreaker was going to be exposed to a virus, and he didn’t know what could happen.

“Come on. We have some anti-virus patches in the wash racks. I hope it will be enough,” Sunstreaker said. Sideswipe nodded, but his optical feed swayed. His peds felt light, and he couldn’t move them correctly. Then he stumbled forward. Sideswipe, though fuzzy optics saw the floor coming upon him when a pair of strong golden arms lifted him against an equally strong golden chest plate.

“Sunny,” Sideswipe moaned pathetically as his vision spun violently at the sudden movement.

Sunstreaker grunted, clutching Sideswipe tighter against his chest plate. He led them to the wash racks. Sunstreaker was being extra careful to not jostle Sideswipe around. Sunstreaker noticed that Sideswipe was as hot as a furnace, though shivering like he was in the coldest part of space.

“Would you like me to turn on the tap?” Sunstreaker asked as they entered the wash racks. Sideswipe shook his helm and winced. Sunstreaker placed Sideswipe on the bench. Sunstreaker opened the cabinet and took out an anti-viral patch. Then, with gentleness he normally didn’t process, Sunstreaker slipped the anti-viral patch under Sideswipe’s armour.

Sideswipe sighed, feeling instant relief. Then Sunstreaker placed a cool cloth on Sideswipe’s helm. He almost moaned at the cooling sensation.

“T-thanks, Sunny”.  

Sunstreaker noticed that Sideswipe started to slip into recharge. He was beginning to slump, so Sunstreaker held him upright. He sighed.

“Recharge Sideswipe. You’ll feel better soon”.

Sunstreaker picked up his twin and carried him to the berth. He gently placed Sideswipe on the soft surface. Sunstreaker was about to leave, but a black servo grabbed a piece of his frame.

“Please stay,” Sideswipe begged. Sunstreaker sighed, he couldn’t say no to his twin.

“Okay. Move over,” Sunstreaker ordered. Sideswipe shifted as Sunstreaker slid in beside him. Sunstreaker hoped that he wouldn’t get sick since Sideswipe brought a virus to their apartment. When Sideswipe felt Sunstreaker lay next to him, he instantly snuggled closer to him. Sunstreaker’s frame seemed to be warmer than his own, and it felt simply amazing to lie beside him.

“Recharge,” Sunstreaker ordered, and Sideswipe obeyed.

Sunstreaker stayed by Sideswipe’s side for the rest of the night cycle. The next cycle, Sunstreaker felt a little off and cursed Sideswipe as he had to apply anti-viral patches to his frame.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker fidgeted in the uncomfortable, small metal chair. He looked at the wall of medical tools on the otherwise dull white wall. Sunstreaker heard a soft grunt next to him, but he refused to look in that direction. Sunstreaker could not look at the sight of Sideswipe laying on a medical berth because of his actions. Well, to be fair, Sunstreaker had sent Sideswipe to the medical bay a few times in their life, but it was the first one that mattered. How could Sideswipe ever forgive him? How could he make it up to him?

“Will you stop feeling sorry for yourself?" Sideswipe said, rubbing his chest plate. The last thing he needed was Sunstreaker’s emotions on top of his aching systems.

“I’m not angry with you, and you shouldn't be either."

“Sides. I could have killed you,” Sunstreaker shouted, finally looking in Sideswipe’s direction. He was quite put out by how Sideswipe was holding back his laughter. Upon seeing the scowl on Sunstreaker’s face plate, Sideswipe had to bite his lip to keep it in.

"You're being a little dramatic, aren't you? It's not that big of a deal; I feel completely better already. In fact, if it hadn't been for your insistence I wouldn't have come to the medical centre at all”.

“I’m not dramatic," Sunstreaker huffed and crossed his arms, “Am I not allowed to be worried about my twin, especially when I am the one who poisoned you?".

Sideswipe mentally counted to ten. Ever since they admitted their feelings for each other, Sunstreaker’s behaviour had changed. He was softer and kinder to Sideswipe. The insults stopped, as did the sparring; well, somewhat, they still fought, but it was different than before.

“I ruined what was supposed to be a relaxing cycle. When I thought about us spending the cycle in the berth, I hadn't imagined a medical berth," Sunstreaker explained.

“Well, it's still early, I'm sure we will be able to spend plenty of time in the other berth today," Sideswipe winked at his twin, “I really appreciate you making those energon treats for me”.

Sunstreaker’s response was cut short by the door opening. The tired medic walked over and stood next to the medical berth. Sunstreaker didn’t know who this medic was.

“Hi, I am Biopsy, medic”. He looked down at his data pad.

“Twins Sideswipe and Sunstreaker, correct?” Biopsy said with a smile.

“Yes” chorused the twins, Biopsy looked a little unnerved.

“Now, Sideswipe, you brought in for tank issues. Care to clarify”.

“Well,” Sideswipe began, before being quickly cut off by Sunstreaker, causing him to glare at his twin.

“I think I accidentally poisoned my twin,” Sunstreaker admitted, looking at the medic with embarrassment.

Biopsy’s optic ridge rose in surprise at the admission of the mech in front of him.

“What he means is that he accidentally gave me energon poisoning,” Sideswipe injected.

“Sunstreaker brought me a tray of energon treats that he made himself. The energon treats were delicious. We both ate some, but I started feeling a little ill. Then I purged. Evidently cooking is one skill we need to work a little more on” Sideswipe explained.

“I see. Are you both still feeling sick?" Biopsy questioned.

“I’m not,” Sunstreaker declared.

“I am a little nauseous, but nothing like I was earlier,” Sideswipe said. "Maybe I shouldn’t have eaten that much,” he admitted, rubbing his abdominal plating.

“Okay. I will give you a medical patch for the nausea, but first, let me run a few diagnostic tests on you”.

“What for?” Sunstreaker asked.

“Energon poisoning can cause serious damage to the internals. It is for the best if I do a scan,” Biopsy explained.

“Sure. Go ahead,” Sideswipe said, shifting his plating. Sunstreaker watched as Biopsy waved the scanner over Sideswipe’s abdominal area. After several astro seconds, the scanner beeped. Biopsy wrote something on his data pad.

" I am done. If you would please sit up, we can discuss the diagnosis."

Sunstreaker paled. Had he done more damage than he had initially thought?

Sideswipe saw Sunstreaker’s distress and reached out and grabbed his servo. When Sunstreaker looked at him, Sideswipe offered him a comforting smile. Sideswipe was convinced it wasn't anything serious; Sunstreaker was not.

“First, Sideswipe, you have no damage to your internals. Second, Sunstreaker may need to learn how to prepare energon safely. Third, Sunstreaker, you do play a part in this”.

“How so?” Sunstreaker demanded. Sideswipe squeezed Sunstreaker’s servo, but it did nothing to soothe his CPU. There was a brief pause before Biopsy spoke again, “Congratulations Sideswipe you now how to keep regularly fuelled for two”.

The medical room was silent for several astro seconds as the meaning of the medic’s words soaked into their CPUs. They couldn’t believe it. Sunstreaker gently placed a servo on Sideswipe’s abdomen.

“We’re going to be creators?”

“I think so,” Sideswipe said. Then Sunstreaker slid off the chair onto the floor.

“Well, that is an abnormal reaction,” Biopsy said, “I’ll give you a list of all the substances you must now take to ensure a healthy sparkling.”

Sideswipe didn’t hear that part; he too fell backwards. Biopsy sighed, “Twins”.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker collapsed onto the large berth tiredly. After such a long cycle at work, he didn’t care that he was still dirty. He didn’t even care that his spinal struts would hurt the next cycle because of his awkward position. Sunstreaker closed his optics and felt himself slip into the appreciated darkness of recharge.

“Welcome home,” came Sideswipe’s enticingly smooth voice as he leaned on the doorframe of the adjacent wash racks. He chuckled when his twin only grunted in reply.

“You should rinse off., Or you will whine in the morning.”

“I don’t care,” Sunstreaker mumbled. The berth dipped as Sideswipe sat beside him. He ran a servo over Sunstreaker’s slightly dirty frame.

“So, you do want me to wipe you down?” Sideswipe teased as he began to slide a servo seductively down his lover's torso.

“Sides,” Sunstreaker groaned softly in annoyance. "Can't you be horny on another night?"

“No,” came his straightforward reply. Sunstreaker could almost hear the smirk on his lips as he spoke. Sideswipe gently shifted Sunstreaker to place him more comfortably on the berth before crawling on top of him. Soon, a warm cleaning cloth gently touched Sunstreaker’s back plates, rubbing off the grime he had collected.

“How was work?” Sideswipe asked with a confident smirk as he ran his hands down Sunstreaker’s frame.

A shiver shot up Sunstreaker’s spinal struts, and he wanted to curse Sideswipe for taking sleep away from him so quickly and easily. "It was fine," he replied vaguely, and Sideswipe repeated his previous action. Another shiver shot up his spinal struts. Sunstreaker felt the tension from the day fade away upon Sideswipe’s tingling gentle touch.

“I had some trouble with a fellow artist, though,” Sunstreaker continued softly. He felt his frame relax and become limp. He was enjoying the feeling of his twin’s calming touch.

“Oh?” Sideswipe asked curiously. He bent down to plant small kisses on Sunstreaker’s jaw and neck cables. Sunstreaker moaned quietly, and his servos came up to trace the strong red, black, and white plating.

“He and I argued about paint. Then he brought up that I’m a twin”.

“Is this going to be a problem?” Sideswipe asked.

“No. Telling the project manager that those underneath me don't want me as their superior because I'm twin,” Sunstreaker said. He tried his hardest to deadpan as he spoke, but Sideswipe was sucking at his neck cables. "I can see how the project manager would take that, seeing that he is also a twin."

“Forget about that artist,” Sideswipe said. He stopped kissing Sunstreaker’s neck cables.

“They’re just jealous that you have such a handsome, attractive twin.”

Before Sunstreaker could correct Sideswipe on who was the better looking. Sideswipe’s soft lips connected with his. Sunstreaker moaned when Sideswipe nibbled at his lower lip, and he allowed entrance without hesitation. Sunstreaker didn't bother trying to dominate over Sideswipe, for he was just too tired to care. Sideswipe noticed this and gently ran his hands down his frame.

“Sides,” Sunstreaker moaned softly. His systems were starting to get hot, and he was tired of being teased. Sideswipe knew what his lover wanted, but he wasn't done with his torture.

“Tell me what you want, Sunny," Sideswipe cooed softly. He let go of Sunstreaker’s lips and gently sucked on his helm vent. Upon hearing him whimper, Sideswipe said huskily, "Tell me what you need, Sunny."

Sunstreaker squirmed beneath Sideswipe. He couldn’t say that he hated it when Sideswipe teased him, but he also couldn't say that it was appreciated right at that moment. He was as tired as he was aroused, and Sunstreaker knew that he wouldn’t be able to recharge if his frame was too hot. Sunstreaker knew that Sideswipe wasn’t going to allow him to take a cold shower either.

Sunstreaker swallowed his pride, “Please Sides”.

Sunstreaker tried not to smirk when he felt Sideswipe shiver. Payback was indeed sweet.

“I need you,” Sunstreaker begged, “I need you to take me, please.”

There was another shiver, and Sideswipe growled in annoyance.

“Enough teasing” Sideswipe growled as pushed Sunstreaker flat onto the berth.

“Is my twin losing his patience?" Sunstreaker teased while smirking.

Then he crashed his lips onto Sideswipe’s. It was perfection; their lips moved in sync.

“What did I say about teasing?” Sideswipe mumbled into Sunstreaker’s lips.

"And I thought I told you to take me," Sunstreaker replied between kisses. He had long since forgotten just how tired he was.

Chapter Text

I’ve always known that my other half isn't, hasn't been, completely...mentally stable. While we were growing up, he seemed normal. Then I learned that he enjoyed causing pain and destruction. With my presence, I was able to stabilize him. Even at the end, even at his best, he still had that look in his optics. Like maybe he's seen a little too much to ever really be completely sane again.

I mean, we have been separated since we were younglings. He was alone, feeling empty like I was. I never expected him to be completely sane again after that. I don't know exactly how aware he was that entire time we were apart, but I get the feeling he was aware enough to suffer some damage.

Scientists and medics told me that I was normal. They said that what I felt was nothing, but it wasn’t; it was his absence. It was the same story for him. So, when I heard that we were being reunited, I was full of mixed emotions. Also, I knew he might not be as stable as everyone expected him to be. Of course, that wasn't the first thing to cross my mind.

I didn't have much choice in the matter, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't absolutely elated to have him back. I don't want to say I would have begged, but it was tearing me apart to be away from him. I wanted him to be happy before anything else, but if they were willingly going to bring him back, I sure wasn't going to be the one to stand in their way.

My friends use these weird words to describe him. It's interesting.

Stoic. "A commanding presence." Strong. Unbeatable. Untouchable.

Everyone does not understand.

I don’t understand either. I used to be able to feel his emotions, so I know that they existed. But now there is a solid wall between us.

Right now, we’re sitting on my berth, and he's collapsed against my chest, crying.

Sobbing.

I know better than to just say, "Well, I knew he wasn't going to be mentally stable,” and leave it at that. These things have names—diagnosable names and treatments.

However, what’s he’s been through is insane in and of itself.

A therapist couldn't begin to understand.

So, for all intents and purposes, I'm his therapist. That's how it must be right now.

I did manage him to go to a medic for a basic mental checkup. He gave me the worst look when I suggested it. But after a moment of shock, he chuckled and smirked and said it'd probably be for the best.

He doesn't scare me, but he scares my friends sometimes. His smile is sometimes a little...crooked.

After the medical appointment, the medic suggested that he has a very strong case of separation anxiety from me.

The medic didn’t give any information after that. He waved us on while I was left with my twin, who looked murderous.

Currently, he mumbles every now and again from his place against my red chestplate.

I don’t have a choice; I’m needed to manage a deal in Koan and this time he's not going with me. I'm not the happiest about it either, but I'll definitely manage. It is always like this: if I am gone for even one cycle, it starts. For a while, he acts like normal. And then I notice. At first, it’s just his sentences get shorter. I get “Good." or "Ok." or "Right...".

Then he goes silent as I pack my things. Then he sits down and stares at the ceiling or wall. And I try to get a reaction, and nothing fazes him. Then he snaps out of it. My friends don't know that he's capable of this because they have never had the chance to see it.

Sometimes I get an apology, but he doesn't have to.

He’s sobbing into my red chest plate, gasping. His voice is higher than normal. He's more emotional right now than I ever saw him when he was just a sparkling. He does this in my presence because he knows that he is safe with me.

"What..." he gasps, "What will I do...w-without you...?"

Hearing him stutter is almost weird enough to throw me off. He’s the strong one, willing to fight anyone. At this moment, he’s weak.

“I’m only gonna be gone for a few cycles, my twin.”

I try to reassure him.

“Cycles...” he mumbles and starts to tremble.

I used to think he was the older twin. He always claimed that he was the first to come online and the stronger one of us. Right now, he hardly passes for a sparkling. He is acting like he is the younger twin. I've got my arms around him, and I'm trying desperately to comfort him, but it doesn't seem to be working.

It's funny because he's so strong about anything other than this. He's so strong about everything. If he had to leave me, like he did once before, he could be strong and make it through. When it's me who needs comforting, he leaves me be. He is not very good at it.

My brother is currently falling apart. Breaking. Coming undone in my arms.

And there's not much I can do to help, except for waiting it out with him.

"I-I can't do it, I can't do it without you..." he gasps.

His optical fluid reserves are dried up, but he still sobs.

“Sunny... Sunstreaker. I'm coming back, you know."

"I can't do it..." he repeats, “I-I can't...".

"I-I can't..."

His sentences are getting smaller. Sometimes that happens. Sometimes he's reduced to saying the same word or letter over and over because it's all he can manage. That's ok.

He's hyperventilating now, stuttering my nickname and gasping desperately.

It's almost enough to make me cancel the trip.

But if I did that, he'd feel guilty. And he'd beat himself up for it. Then me as usual. I think he wants me to go; he just doesn't want me to be gone.

"Breathe with me," I tell him as I take deliberately long and steady breaths. He tries, but it's not working.

"I-I..I..."

This is probably as far as the episode will go today. This is as bad as it will get. I hope.

“It’s okay, Sunny. Breathe”.

Sunstreaker tries again. I can tell he's really trying, but he still ends up gasping.

“I’m here,” I try to reassure him.

Sunstreaker grips Sideswipe tighter and starts to shake.

"But y-you..."

"Hm?"

"Y-You won't...won't..."

“Sunny,” I say his nickname to try to get him to finish the sentence.

"You...won't be..."

I sigh. And I grip him back, trying to give him a sense of security.

“Won’t be what?” I asked, trying to keep my tone as gentle and patient as I could.

Sunstreaker gasps again before speaking, his breathing slowly, slowly starting to even out.

"You won't be...here..."

I suspect that our separation is an issue for him. I don't think this would be a problem. Our bond is something we rely on, and without it, he has no connection to me. And now it’s 90% formed. However, I can't feel exactly what he's feeling right now. All I know is that he is so scared. I can feel that at least.

“Sunny, you know I'll always be with you, right?".

He buries his helm into my shoulder plating. I know he’ll fall into recharge after this.

“Are you okay, Sunny?”.

He nods but doesn't speak. I can tell he's so tired. He distances himself to look at me with a question in his optics. He's tired, and he wants to rest, but he doesn't want me to go. I pull him closer to me, lay him on my chest plate, and lean back in berth. Surprisingly, he accepts the comfort and relaxes in my hold.

As he falls into recharge, he lets go and starts breathing evenly. That is the important thing. At least I know that I'll come home to a very sweet welcome. He's always good about that. He's never mad at me for leaving; he's just happy to see me.

He mumbles in recharge. The whispers sound like my name.

: I’m here: I pass through the bond we share, even though I know there's very little chance he'll hear it.

Sunstreaker relaxes and Sideswipe joins in him in recharge. Glad that it is over.

Chapter Text

Notes: for Halloween

 Most Cybertronians have regular optical feeds that can see ultraviolet and inferred light. They can see colours that organics can rarely see. However, they cannot see spirits. The standard optical feed cannot see the pale figures silently going about their own business.

Sideswipe considered himself one of the weird ones who could. He came online to darkness. Sideswipe heard the beeping of machines and the voices of his carrier and sire, but he would never be able to see it.

It left Sideswipe helpless, and his creators could not afford any tech to help him, let alone care for him. They tried, though, making it as easy as possible for Sideswipe, but he knew the truth. He was left alone while his creators worked as many shifts as they could. Then, one cycle, Sideswipe heard a knock at the door. He was hesitant to open it, but he did when he heard sirens.

Sideswipe opened the door to find two enforcers. He couldn’t see their expressions as they told him that his creators were offline. Then, Sideswipe found himself being placed in an orphanage. That was the moment when He realized that he was truly helpless. In that moment, Sideswipe saw them—the spirits of the dead.

At first, Sideswipe couldn’t believe it. He thought he could see but realized he couldn’t. Then Sideswipe checked his systems to see if he was malfunctioning. Sideswipe curled up on the berth, shaking in fear.

The other younglings left him alone, but Sideswipe was not truly alone. He found that there were spirits in the area. He kept catching glimpses of a Praxian sparkling that was usually away from the group like Sideswipe was.

“Hi. Are you new?”

Sideswipe almost screamed as a grey Praxian with a red chevron talked to him.

“Can you see me? Your optics are blank though? Did you damage them?”

“Shut up, Blue. You know the living can’t see us,” snapped a gold and black youngling.  

Sideswipe shrieked; the other spirits noticed.

“I think he can,” announced a giant grey mech with red optics.

“Then let’s not scare him even more than he is,” advised a blue Praxian mech, who gently walked over to Sideswipe.

“It’s okay, little one. I am Smokescreen”.

“Side... my name is Sides,” Sideswipe stammered.

“It’s nice to meet you, Sides. That over there is my little brother Bluestreak”.

Bluestreak gave Sideswipe a little wave, and Sideswipe hesitantly waved back.

“That’s Megatron. And that is our little ball of sunshine, Sunstreaker”.

“Don’t call me that,” Sunstreaker snapped.

 And that is how Sideswipe was introduced to four Cybertronians that were now spirits.

Chapter Text

Notes:

• Autobot Sideswipe
• Decepticon Sunstreaker
• Character death

The day Sideswipe remembered Sunstreaker was the day his spark broke all over again.

He’d awoken in the middle of the night, sweating, his hands clasping the sides of the berth. Scrambling, Sideswipe ran from the berthroom, venting heavily, only to be stopped by a sleepy Bluestreak as he emerged from his own berthroom.

Sideswipe grasped the sleepy mech’s arms, feeling panic run through his frame. Shakily, Sideswipe passed the data pad he’d been reading before he had gone into recharge. Bluestreak was used to these shows of panic. Sideswipe had suffered a major helm injury during a battle, resulting in the loss of his memory... and life as he knew it.

Now, Sideswipe stood before his best friend, venting heavily, begging for answers.

Answers.

It was always about answers.

Who is this mech? Why do I remember this?

Did this mech die?

The medics and Ratchet had said Sideswipe’s memory would return to him in fragments. They warned that rushing the process would only complicate things or Sideswipe may not heal at all.

Still, it had been 40 cycles, and still, Sideswipe didn't have all the answers.

Neither did Smokescreen, Prowl, or Jazz, sometimes.

“This mech”. Sideswipe pointed to an image of an impossibly handsome gold and black mech. “Sunstreaker”.

The data pad shook in Bluestreak’s servos, his optics filled with an emotion that Sideswipe didn’t recognize. Sideswipe cleared his vocalizer and continued, “Who is he?”.

Bluestreak frowned, not knowing what to say.

“Sunstreaker fought many battles.... for the other side... Decepticons”.

Sideswipe looked confused. Why did he feel that he knew this mech, Sunstreaker? But how could he, as Sunstreaker was a Deception, the enemy?

“Why haven’t I heard about him before?” Sideswipe asked.

Bluestreak hesitated before answering.

“You wouldn’t. He offlined 40 cycles ago during the battle at Crystal City”.

Sideswipe shook so violently he could feel the panic rising up in his vocalizer, choking him. Optical fluid gathered on his face plate, but it wouldn’t fall. Oh, Primus why wouldn’t it fall, the optical fluid just kept gathering until his helm ached and his hands shook. Sideswipe felt his spark pulsing in his chamber, and his face plate was wet. Sideswipe raised a hand to his face in shock, tasting bitter optical fluid on his lips. Dead. Dead. Dead.

Sideswipe couldn’t take it anymore.

“Sides, are you okay?”.

No. No. No, no, no –

Sideswipe was walking, no, running, running towards something, though he couldn't remember what. Sideswipe just knew he had to run, run, run, – and then there was the sound of screaming. It echoed until he was screaming as well, as explosions followed.

“Sideswipe!”

He spun around.

“Sunstreaker!” he screamed, dashing forward, “I... I thought you were.... offline”.

However, Sunstreaker wasn’t looking at him; he was looking at something over Sideswipe’s shoulder. His optics were wide and horrified. Time seemed to slow, then just stopped, but the screaming didn't, wouldn't, it wouldn't stop –

“He’s offline?” Sideswipe heard himself whisper.

“Yes, Sides. His spark is in the well of Allsparks,” Bluestreak said.

The joy Sideswipe felt at this piece of the puzzle coming together flickered and died, replaced by an overwhelming, crushing grief.

“I think…I think I may have loved him once."

Bluestreak pulled his friend into a hug, holding onto him with all his might. Sideswipe let out a muffled sob.

“I know. Sides. I have to tell you this... he was your twin. Sunstreaker was your twin,” Bluestreak admitted.

Sideswipe was confused.

“Twin? I had a twin...” Sideswipe let go of Bluestreak, confusedly looking at him, “What is a twin?”.

“A twin is something containing or consisting of two matching or corresponding parts. Your sparks were connected to each other. And you both have similar faceplates and frames,” Bluestreak explained.

Sideswipe felt a range of emotions, “Why didn’t you tell me?” He demanded angrily.

“Why didn't you tell me? You are my friend, Bluestreak! Did you think it was-" Sideswipe seemed to just give in, cave into himself. Sideswipe cradled his helm in his hands.

“I– Oh, Sunny. You absolute Aft."

“Sideswipe. Get out of the way!”.

And then Sunstreaker was running towards him, jumping in front of him, shielding him. Sideswipe felt terror grasp at him, choke him, but it wasn’t terror for himself, no- it was for Sunstreaker. Once it was over, Sideswipe pushed Sunstreaker off him; he slammed into the ground. Sunstreaker’s helm lulled back, an impossibly large hole through his once golden chest plate that was rapidly turning grey. And there was fluid everywhere, on Sideswipe’s armour, the ground– but worst of all, his hands- his hands were soaked in fluids.

Bluestreak was unsure of what to do. He’d never seen Sideswipe like this before. Bluestreak had never seen anybody like this before, not even in all his years of dealing with the injured, ill, and broken. There was something in Sideswipe’s optics, something so painful it could have conquered anything, a huge, weighing sadness that was so strong Bluestreak feared it might crush them both.

Bluestreak reached out and gently placed a hand on Sideswipe’s shoulder. He pulled back from his friend.

"There was always this, this thing," Sideswipe whispered finally. "This empty space in my chest. This absence. Like I was waiting for something, but I didn't know what." Sideswipe began to cry softly, optical fluid dripping through his fingers. "It was him. It was always him."

Bluestreak didn't try to touch Sideswipe again. He just spoke.

“He offlined nobly if it means anything. A cannon blast went off, and you were in the line of fire. I don't think he even thought about it. Didn't need to. Sunny—Sunstreaker just threw himself in the way."

Sideswipe smiled, through the tears of optical fluid, “He thought he was unkillable. Thinking he could take on anything”.

With his helm titled back, Sunstreaker stared at him, except Sideswipe wasn’t sure if he was actually seeing him. That made it hurt so, so much more.

“Tell him- Sideswipe- tell him... I love him... my twin,” Sunstreaker whispered, his vocals faint as his red optics flickered and then turned black. “I love him so much.”

And there, in Sideswipe’s arms, covered in various fluids, Sunstreaker offlined.

“I loved him,” Sideswipe cried gently, looking exhausted and…limp.

"I know." Bluestreak's voice broke. "I know, love."

Chapter Text

Sideswipe sucked in as he was slammed against the wall, pain echoing through his systems and his spark beating fast. Sideswipe quickly balled his servos into fist, taking another swing at his opponent, but they dodged the left hook. Sideswipe found his arms pinned to his sides. He struggled to break free, trying to hook his leg around his opponent to bring them down onto the floor. However, his opponent was too quick, and Sideswipe was too hesitant.

“Stop thinking about it,” Sunstreaker said to Sideswipe for the umpteenth time. "Follow your instincts."

Sideswipe’s lips twisted in equal parts anger and discomfort.

“Yeah? What if my instincts tell me to stab you with something pointy the next time you embarrass me in front of our trainer?”.

“Hey. You're the one who insisted that we show off our skills” Sunstreaker protested, “It’s not my fault if our owner wants us to demonstrate our fighting abilities against each other”.

Sideswipe glared at his twin.

“I will not go easy on you because you are twin,” Sunstreaker finished. Then he released Sideswipe, looking disapprovingly at him.

“I don’t expect you to, Sunny,” Sideswipe spat, taking a moment to correct his stance, “But why did you say all that stuff afterward?”.

Sunstreaker sighed, “For one,” He said, weaving away from Sideswipe’s next move and using the velocity to deliver a counterpunch to his jaw.

“Our Owner agreed with me. You're not ready. For another —"

Sideswipe quickly threw another punch at him, this one grazing his nose as he swayed back.

“You need a lot more training to prepare you for what the other gladiators have in store.”

“That’s,” Sideswipe began as Sunstreaker delivered a straight jab, “wrong. I can totally fight, and” Sideswipe blocked Sunstreaker’s next hit, forcing him backwards as his fist made contact with golden armour, “I can fight better than most of these gladiators”.

Sunstreaker snorted, “You don’t. I am one of the champions in the ring.” He played dirty by delivering a punch straight to Sideswipe’s gut. He was surprised because Sideswipe didn’t see it coming. “And you are the worst gladiator in the universe,” Sunstreaker finished.

“Oof,” Sideswipe grunted as he doubled over, allowing Sunstreaker to kick him and sweep him off his peds. Sideswipe landed with a bang onto the floor.

“Ouch,” Sideswipe cried as his helm slammed into the ground, seeing stars for a few seconds.

“Pathetic,” Sunstreaker sneered, standing over his downed twin. Sideswipe decided to fight dirty and kicked his leg out. Sunstreaker was knocked off his peds and fell to the floor.

“Cheap shot,” Sunstreaker snarled, quickly recovering. Sideswipe did the same before tackling the golden mech. Sunstreaker landed on his back as Sideswipe scrambled on top.

Sunstreaker refocused his optics to see Sideswipe on top, looking smug.

“Holy Prim—" Sideswipe’s words were cut off as Sunstreaker twisted his legs around Sideswipe’s frame. Then Sideswipe found himself on his back again with Sunstreaker straddling him on the floor, with an award-winning smirk on his lips. Sideswipe tried to break free, but he couldn’t. Sunstreaker had won.

“I won. You lose. Again,” Sunstreaker said. However, he was venting hard. Sideswipe knew that Sunstreaker rarely overexhorted himself during their fights. Sunstreaker usually kicked Sideswipe’s aft quickly within a few astro seconds.

Then Sunstreaker released him, pulling himself to his peds.

“Hey. What about another round? I can totally beat you,” Sideswipe said. Sunstreaker snorted.

“In your dream,s Sides. I have better opponents to deal with,” Sunstreaker said, exiting the training room.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker enters his suspiciously quiet quarters after his uneventful evening patrol. Sunstreaker is already on high alert because their quarters are never this quiet, especially with Sideswipe around.

“Sideswipe?” Sunstreaker calls out for his twin upon not seeing the flash of instantly recognizable red armour that he’s used to seeing. Sunstreaker takes a seat on the large couch and sinks into the softness. Sunstreaker tilts his helm back to look at the ceiling.

“You called Sunshine”.

Sideswipe stands directly in front of the couch, looking down at him. Sunstreaker notices that Sideswipe has flecks of a foreign substance on his frame.

“What is that substance?” Sunstreaker asked, not touching his twin.

“Oh, nothing, just dirt,” Sideswipe said too quickly.

That made Sunstreaker suspicious.

“Spill it, don’t tell me you did another prank.”

“No,” Sideswipe responded. He paused, making Sunstreaker glare at him.

“Okay.. okay. So, you know that Hound and Mirage”.

“What about them?” Sunstreaker snaps.

“I kinda volunteered to watch some of Hound’s animals.”

Sunstreaker freezes. His twin should know how much Sunstreaker hates organics, especially the stinky, unintelligent ones.

“They need someone to feed Fluffy”.

“Please tell me you didn’t bring it here,” Sunstreaker said, almost pleading.

“Well... maybe...” Sideswipe said. He could feel Sunstreaker’s unease. Sunstreaker tries to hide it by shifting in his seat, but Sideswipe sees his reaction for what it is. Maybe Sideswipe should have okayed this with him before agreeing to look after an organic.

“Sideswipe. Where is the thing?” Sunstreaker asked.

“In the berth room,” Sideswipe answered.

Sunstreaker stood up and strode over to the berthroom, pushing Sideswipe aside. Then he freezes again. Sideswipe creeps up behind him. Inside their berth room is a large tank filled with water. Inside is sand on the bottom, with a castle and nature elements.

“Sides. What did you bring into our space? And where is it?” Sunstreaker asked.

“What?” Sideswipe peers over Sunstreaker’s golden shoulder.

“It was right there”.

“Well, clearly it is not now,” Sunstreaker snaps.

Sideswipe pushes Sunstreaker aside and scrambles to the tank; Sunstreaker follows behind him.

“Oh No. Hound warned me this might happen”.

“What?”.

Sideswipe turned to face his twin.

“This particular sea creature is intelligent and can escape.”

Sunstreaker heard a dripping noise. He looked up to see a massive sea creature with eight limbs and a large yellow eye. Without warning, it fell and landed on him. Sunstreaker screamed and ran out of the berth room, with Sideswipe frantically running behind him.

“Don’t hurt Fluffy. Please, Sunny,” Sideswipe wailed.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe looked into Sunstreaker’s face, with hate plastered all over it. Sideswipe’s spark was pulsing with anger, which showed on his faceplate. But at the last second, and to Sideswipe’s surprise, he instead shoved his face into his, pushing his lips heatedly up against his lips.

Sunstreaker stepped back and looked ready to spit fire. Sideswipe had never seen him so angry. What had led him to do that? Sideswipe asked himself. The act he'd just committed truly came out of nowhere. The kiss was not Sideswipe’s intention, and he was surprised.

“How dare– what in Primus's name– you must have some audacity to ever dream that–" Sunstreaker struggled to find the words to express his complete and utter disdain. Sideswipe watched as Sunstreaker spewed words at him, looking more like he would explode with each passing second. Sideswipe saw Sunstreaker look over his shoulders, then up and down the corridor. Then, Sunstreaker rushed at him without warning, pulling him close and forcing his lips onto Sideswipe.

It was not a passionate or intimate kiss or one filled with any pleasant emotions at all. No, it was a kiss that expressed rage, showing Sunstreaker’s domination over him. Sideswipe was completely stunned but found himself mirroring his twin’s actions. Then reality set in, causing Sideswipe to try to get away. Thus ending the kiss. However, before Sideswipe had a chance to say or do anything, Sunstreaker had instantly pulled his lips back to his with one hand on the back of his helm.

Sideswipe did not try to pull away again but instead leaned into his movements. Their hands were exploring each other's bodies, and they could not get enough of each other. Sunstreaker pushed Sideswipe into a dark alcove without breaking the kiss. Sideswipe could feel the heat from Sunstreaker’s frame. He was not thinking clearly. This was so unlike them. And yet, Sideswipe didn’t care. He did not care that he was locked in the embrace of the person he hated most in the universe. Sideswipe did not care that they could be caught at any moment and have to face the consequences of anybody finding out. All Sideswipe knew was that he was desperate for Sunstreaker to continue ravaging his mouth with his.

Then the touching started. Sideswipe felt Sunstreaker place a hand on his back, his fingers lightly pressing on his aft. Sideswipe let out the softest moan. Sunstreaker finally broke away from Sideswipe’s lips to nibble his jaw. Then, he trailed down his lips until he bit Sideswipe's main energon cable.

Sideswipe immediately snapped back to his senses. This was suddenly moving way too fast. Sideswipe placed his hands on Sunstreaker’s golden chest and pushed him away. Sideswipe could see that Sunstreaker’s optics were glossy, and his vents could be heard. Sideswipe watched as the desire in Sunstreaker's optics grew smaller and smaller, and he was brought back to reality. They stared at each other briefly before Sunstreaker turned to walk out from the alcove and away from the scene that had just played out between them.

Sideswipe just barely registered that he had grabbed hold of Sunstreaker’s arm and pulled him back as he heard the sound of footsteps growing louder and louder outside of their hiding place. Sunstreaker was already moving back towards the alcove, having heard the footsteps too. In unison, they both placed a hand over each other's mouth to prevent the other from making any noise and alerting the intruder that they were there.

The footsteps continued to grow louder. Sideswipe prayed that they would not be found. They both waited, not even venting. The footsteps began getting quieter and quieter again as the Autobot making them continued down the corridor until they were gone. They both breathed a sigh of relief and double-checked that the coast was clear before emerging from the alcove.

Sunstreaker looked at Sideswipe and seemed to be debating whether to say something. Finally, he spoke.

"Don't expect me to start treating you any differently after this.”

“Believe me, Sunstreaker. It meant nothing to me," Sideswipe said coldly.

Sunstreaker glared at Sideswipe before walking swiftly down the corridor and turning the corner. Sideswipe waited momentarily before walking away in the opposite direction, wondering if that could happen again.

Chapter Text

Here he was, Sunstreaker: Decepticon, sitting in a bar catered to Autobots and Decepticons. Who’d ever thought the champion gladiator of Koan and Megatron’s lover would be here? Sunstreaker saw the glares and silent death threats sent his way. However he ignored them, that was not the reason he was here. This bar was operated by a neutral who insisted that any fights were to happen outside, and fractions stayed on their sides of the bar.

Sunstreaker swirled his drink, then the reason he was here entered the bar. The red, white, and black mech stood at the entrance. He was the same height as Sunstreaker and had similar facial features. Sideswipe: Sunstreaker’s Autobot twin.

Sunstreaker almost sat up but restrained himself. His old habits unable to break. Sunstreaker hadn’t seen his twin since the gladiator pits, where the twins provided entertainment to the masses of Koan. Sideswipe always complained that Sunstreaker was too harsh and too willing to kill their fellow gladiators. Also, that he took dangerous risks by entering death matches.

Sunstreaker would scoff at him; he always survived and came back.

Then, it changed when Sideswipe was sent away as punishment for Sunstreaker’s actions. They took Sideswipe away from him! Sunstreaker raged, costing his hander a lot of credits that were added to his debt.

“Sunny... Sunstreaker”, Sideswipe corrected.

Sunstreaker almost snarled; he hated that nickname but let Sideswipe get away with it, this once. Sunstreaker wanted to hug his twin, but he knew he couldn’t because of the symbol on Sideswipe’s chest plate.

“Sideswipe,” Sunstreaker acknowledged. Sideswipe sat beside his twin, ignoring the looks from the Decepticons in the bar.

“It’s nice seeing you again,” Sideswipe said, trying to start a conversation, “Though in better circumstances”.

“I agree with that,” Sunstreaker said.

“Why did you invite me here?” Sideswipe asked, not feeling very comfortable surrounded by the enemy.

“To offer you an opportunity”

“For what?” Sideswipe interrupted.

“To join the Decepticons at Megatron’s side”.

Sideswipe couldn’t believe that Sunstreaker had said that. Why would he ask Sideswipe to join a side filled with murderous Cybertronians who enjoyed spilling energon of others? That was run by the gladiator, to whom Sideswipe lost and almost died.

“Umm... What?” Sideswipe managed to say.

Sunstreaker frowned.

“I’m allowing you to join the winning side. The Decepticons”

Sideswipe was stunned. He couldn’t believe that Sunstreaker would offer such a thing to him. Sunstreaker surely knew what Sideswipe was like, didn’t he?

“And what if I refuse,” Sideswipe said.

“Then you won’t survive for long,” Sunstreaker answered.

Sideswipe knew his answer. However, before he could tell Sunstreaker. The walls shook, and pieces of shrapnel scattered around the bar. Sideswipe was blown backward, crashing into a table. Sunstreaker never did get his answer as an Autobot soldier dragged Sideswipe away from the destroyed bar.

Chapter Text

"Look who it isss"

Sunstreaker turned around to find the slur of a voice coming from the one and only Sideswipe. The Autobot with his designation was being screamed by superior officers every cycle. This particular Autobot was a trouble marker playing pranks around the base. He also brewed high-grade, making quite a few Autobots overcharged, not to mention that his parties were legendary.   

“Sideswipe”.

"Im. sSurprised." Sideswipe said, poking his chest plate with every word, "To. See. You. Here."

“Don’t touch me,” Sunstreaker growled, forcefully removing Sideswipe’s digit from his chest plate.

“cause you. Don’t seem. To bEe the t-type to c-come OUT and so-so- social-ize”.

Sunstreaker glanced around the common area, his unit were already here, separated into groups. It was a mystery why Sideswipe was here in the common area; he was in a different unit.

“I'll let you know I can be "social" Sideswipe; I'm just surprised you even want to talk to me when your unit is over there."

“Oh please. I-I know my..my unit.. very well” Sideswipe said with a smirk, “you on the other servo…"

Sunstreaker almost choked on his drink. Was Sideswipe hitting on him? Him: Sunstreaker. The best frontliner warrior in the universe.

“Me?” Sunstreaker couldn’t believe this was happening.

“obviouslyyy” Sideswipe slurred, reaching out and trailing his servo down Sunstreaker’s golden armour.

Sunstreaker thought about tearing off the trailing servo and was about to when Sideswipe stopped, sensing what would happen.

“R-righ.. No...no touch-ie for the Su-Sunshine” Sideswipe chuckled.

Sunstreaker glared, “Go away, Sideswipe”.

“NO,” Sideswipe said, “I think you are the best-looking Autobot in this army. And clearly, I'm into you. Have you seen you?".

Sunstreaker was stunned. He couldn’t believe Sideswipe was attracted to him. To be fair, most mechs and femmes were. Sunstreaker looked him up and down. He was not impressed with what he saw. Sideswipe had clearly attempted to wax but clearly had streaks and had not done a good job.

Sideswipe started to panic at the lack of response, which sobered him up. "I mean, unless you're not attracted to me. Oh Primus, I’m such a slagger I'm-".

“Definitely glitched in the CPU” Sunstreaker finished.

Sideswipe looked at him, swaying as he did so.

“I’ll tell you this once, Sideswipe. Go away”.

Sideswipe pouted as Sunstreaker glared at him. The two stared at each other before Sideswipe giggled.

“You look like a grumpy sparkling that needs a nap.”

Sunstreaker felt complete satisfaction as he hurled his now empty cube at Sideswipe’s helm. It connected with such a force and noise it could be heard from the hallway. Autobots turned to look as Sideswipe fell backward, landing on the floor with a loud thud. Sideswipe rolled back his helm and let out a loud snore. Sunstreaker snorted as two Sideswipe unit members grabbed him and hurled him away.

Chapter Text

Notes

• Academy
• Noble Sunstreaker

“I thought I told you to leave me alone, Noble,” Sideswipe said, not looking up from the datapad that he was reading.

“You told me to be quiet, peasant, not to leave you alone,” Sunstreaker smirked from where he sat across the table from him.

“I’ll let you know I have been the perfect study partner. I have been quiet and have not disturbed you. It is you who is disturbing me." Sunstreaker pointed out his own data pad in front of him.

“That kiss last cycle was a mistake,” Sideswipe whispered, glancing around the study area. They were currently alone, “And that is all that it would be. Nothing more”.

 “What are you afraid of, peasant?” Sunstreaker leaned forward, his voice lowering, “That the other students will find out that I like you or that we could be together. That I might be crazy about you”.

Sideswipe flashed him a perturbed gaze; people could not hear that. "Hump. As if. Stick with your own kind noble. I’ll stick with mine”.

“Oh really. What if I don’t want to stick with my own kind?”.

Sideswipe snorted. He had done this before, and he was not going to be hurt by another rich noble who belonged to the higher society of Cybertron’s elite.

“Let’s be real, Noble. Society expects you to find a suitable match. And have noble offspring,” Sideswipe said, putting down his datapad, “I’m a peasant according to you and your family. They won't accept me, Sunstreaker,".

“I don’t care what my family expects of me. Or of what society expects of me,” Sunstreaker stated.

"You may say you want me now, but we are from different social circumstances.”

“So,” Sunstreaker interrupted, “Do not tell me who I want, who I interact with. I get enough of that from my family”.

Sunstreaker stood, his powerful long legs carried him the short distance to Sideswipe’s side of the table where he leaned over him. Sunstreaker’s lips were close to his.

“So maybe take a chance,” Sunstreaker suggested. The distance closed, and all worries about being discovered lay forgotten in his kiss. Once they broke apart, Sideswipe stared at the noble. Blue optics met blue optics. They stared at each other in silence for what seemed like an eternity. Sideswipe was filled with questions, but the main one was what should he do now?

“That kiss was amazing, and I am slightly convinced.”

Sunstreaker smiled and placed his servo on Sideswipe’s shoulder.

“That is a good start”. Sunstreaker grinned and pulled Sideswipe up, ignoring the gasp from the shelves. Sunstreaker planted another kiss on Sideswipe’s lips. They could deal with the gossip later.

Chapter Text

Pairings: Bluestreak/ Sideswipe. Tracks/ Sunstreaker. Hound/ Mirage.

Jealous Bumblebee and Smokescreen.

Bumblebee sighed. “Blues so lucky, isn’t he?”

The other Autobots all looked over to the table where Bluestreak was sitting with his partner. Sideswipe had his arm around Bluestreak while he smiled and whispered in Bluestreak’s audios. Bluestreak blushed and laughed before spluttering. It was like this when everyone gathered in the rec room. Bumblebee, Smokescreen, Tracks, and Hound were a little envious. None of their partners were quite as attentive as Sideswipe was to Bluestreak.

“Why can’t Sunstreaker be that caring?” Tracks asked, disgruntled.

“Sunstreaker. Caring. Those words don’t belong together,” Smokescreen said. "Besides, I don’t know what Sideswipe sees in little innocent Blue. “

“Ah. Is some bot jealous?” commented Bumblebee.

“No,” Smokescreen snapped.

“It’s a pity Mirage isn’t like that,” Hound commented.

“That one is a posh noble. What did you expect?” Tracks pointed out.

“Maybe our partners should be taking lessons from Sideswipe,” Hound suggested.

“Ha, as if. Sideswipe would lead them all astray,” Smokescreen said.

“You’re just jealous that Bluestreak snagged one of the twins,” Bumblebee said.

“So are you,” Smokescreen argued.

“I’m not,” protested Bumblebee.

“So, you haven’t got a crush on little Blue then.”

“Word of warning Smokescreen. Don’t listen to every rumour you hear,” Bumblebee said, with a dark tone.

At the table, Sideswipe used his free hand to tap Bluestreak’s thighs gently. He loved hearing Bluestreak’s vents hitch when their frames were pressed closely together. Sideswipe flicked his optics to the other side of the rec room where the other Autobots were gathered.

"They're watching us again," Sideswipe said, indicating the group of Autobots.

Bluestreak trembled and flushed. “Why do they watch us every time? Is it you, or is it me? Are they judging us?”.

“I wouldn’t know, Blue,” Sideswipe muttered. “Maybe Smokescreen or your little friend Bee is jealous.”

“Bee is not jealous. Smokescreen definitely is. I heard he still has feelings for you. Maybe we should go. They are making me uncomfortable.”

“Blue,” Sideswipe sighed, “You can’t just leave because of some stares and whispers.”

Then Sideswipe smirked.

“Or maybe we could give them something to talk about.”

“Like what? Nothing bad, right?”

Bluestreak was cut off as Sideswipe kissed him, causing all the occupants to look at them.

“Shall we go Blue, or do you want to stay here where I can make you scream”.

“Let’s go!” Bluestreak almost shouted, pulling Sideswipe off his seat and dragging him out of the rec room.

“Lucky little Blue,” Smokescreen hissed, with Bumblebee looking slightly upset.

“I don’t think we will be seeing Bluestreak for a while,” Hound commented.

“Neither Sideswipe, I reckon,” Tracks added.

They all sipped their drinks, wishing they had a partner who displayed similar behaviour to Sideswipe.

Chapter Text

“Well, if it isn’t the famous prankster Sideswipe,” Sunstreaker sneered as Sideswipe joined the line for the energon dispenser. Most of the Autobots glared at the prankster. Sideswipe recently pulled a prank involving mixing pink paint with cleanser that left pink marks on other Autobots' frames.

“Slag off, Sunshine,” Sideswipe said. He wasn’t in the mood for any of Sunstreaker’s attitude right now; he was still quite angry and sore from his cleaning duty and shifts assigned by the SIC.

“No. You can't get rid of me that easily, Sideswipe,” Sunstreaker said, pushing his way to Sideswipe. The other Autobots easily got out of his way, knowing that Sunstreaker would punish the prankster. Sideswipe huffed as Sunstreaker got right in his faceplate. Sideswipe glared at the slightly taller Autobot.

“You’re an unbearable egoistical aft,” Sideswipe said, looking directly at Sunstreaker’s dark blue optics.

“You’re an annoying piece of rusted slag,” Sunstreaker counted.

“Takes one to know one,” Sideswipe taunted with a smirk. This made Sunstreaker fume. Sideswipe crossed his arms over his chest plate, knowing that Sunstreaker made quite a spectacle when he was angry. Sunstreaker was about to say something when he was interrupted by a loud snort that came from somewhere in the crowd.

Sideswipe didn't pay much mind to the distraction since he was too focused on Sunstreaker. For a brief moment, Sideswipe thought Sunstreaker’s optics looked pretty before he mentally scolded himself for thinking such a thing, not surprisingly, since Sunstreaker’s optics were something that mechs and femmes gushed over.

“Shut up.. Glitch”.

Sideswipe smirked, “Name-calling now, are we? Well, two can play that game, narcissist.”

Sunstreaker snarled and took a step closer. They were so close that Sideswipe felt the warm air fumes caress his frame.

“Stupid, irresponsible show off”.

“Self-centred Aft” Sideswipe shot back.

“Slag for CPU,” Sunstreaker shouted.

“Attractive Aft,” Sideswipe said.

“Handsome glitch”.

The crowd fell silent after Sunstreaker and Sideswipe’s last statements. Said Autobots, we’re staring at each other, both with indeterminable expressions. The two rivals we're locked, optic to optic in a staring match, daring the other to look away first.

Sideswipe stared intently into Sunstreaker’s dark blue optics. Subconsciously, Sideswipe swept his glossa across his lip. His optics flicked briefly at Sunstreaker's mouth at the exact moment Sunstreaker did the same to Sideswipe. They stood there staring at each other for another moment until suddenly Sunstreaker’s mouth was on Sideswipe’s.

Sideswipe was stunned for a moment until he realised just how soft Sunstreaker’s lips felt against his own. Slowly, Sideswipe’s servos slipped around Sunstreaker’s large golden frame. Sideswipe kissed him back with the same fiery passion.

Lost in the moment and feeling bold, Sideswipe seductively ran his glossa across Sunstreaker’s bottom lip, requesting entry. Sideswipe grinned against Sunstreaker’s mouth when he obliged, and their glossa’s started to slide over each other in a battle for dominance.

When Sunstreaker removed his glossa from Sideswipe’s mouth, he felt disappointed. However, it didn’t last long as Sunstreaker bit down on Sideswipe’s bottom lip. Sideswipe moaned, then he moaned louder as Sunstreaker trailed his perfect servos down his frame. His servos came to rest on Sideswipe’s waist. Then Sunstreaker started trailing kisses down Sideswipe’s neck.

The two Autobots only stopped when they heard a loud thud behind them. Abruptly, they jumped apart, realising where they were. Sideswipe noticed that the commander had fallen out of their chair, completely stunned. Looking at the crowd most had their mouths hanging open or were rubbing their optics as if they couldn’t believe what they had just witnessed. Though Smokescreen was grinning, Jazz had a very smug look on his faceplate. If Sideswipe had to guess why Jazz looked so smug, he'd say it was the face of someone who had just won a large bet.

The crowd stayed silent for a couple of astro seconds as they stared at the two Autobots. The silence was broken by some bot shouting, “What in Primus’s name is going on?”

With that, the crowd was reanimated, and chaos arose.

Chapter Text

The golden frontliner walked through the corridor with some art supplies in his arms. It was no secret that Sunstreaker drew in his spare time. In fact, it was common knowledge that the dangerous, violent frontliner would disappear into the depths of the base to be alone. It was rumoured that even Sideswipe would not follow him. There were rumours that Sunstreaker’s drawing sessions were to release the dark and personal thoughts from his CPU. That Sunstreaker drew his secrets that he would never share, not even with his twin brother.

The Autobots speculated that Sunstreaker would destroy his creations after completing them. Not many Autobots had seen Sunstreaker’s drawings, nor did they know what was drawn. Anytime some Autobot tried, they would arrive in the medical bay with some injury that Sunstreaker had no problem inflicting. Even if it was a femme but their injuries were cosmetic rather than dangerous. Sunstreaker had a code where he gave a little respect to femmes compared to mechs. It was rumoured that even Sideswipe had suffered injuries from Sunstreaker from trying to find out what his twin brother would draw. However, some Autobots would say that Sideswipe would be injured from sparring with his twin brother.

Sunstreaker entered the depths of the base, where the smell of waste lingered along with the scent of burning energon. The machines of hummed, supplying energy to keep the base operational. Sunstreaker walked past it all, to a space away from the prying optics of drones and Autobots. It would only be him and no one else. With a tap of keys, a door opened, and the stale air made his olfactory sensor twitch. Nonetheless, he would not be distracted here.

Sunstreaker found a niche in the storeroom where a lone stool stood. He walked over to it and sat down. The storeroom was sparse, as it was not frequently used, so it would only be him and the stool he sat on. Sunstreaker set his supplies down and grabbed his sketchpad with his stylus. With an idea in his CPU, Sunstreaker put the utensil to the sketchpad.

Once he started to draw, the strokes came easily. It was as if he were playing an instrument: the notes and keys were hit beautifully. His optics focused only on his work, moving along the lines and curves created on the canvas.

Soon, Sunstreaker blocked out the sounds of the area, making it quiet. However, he didn’t care because he was finished. His servo was starting to cramp, and he flexed it, loosening the cables. Though if anyone dare to noticed they would see a faint traces of longing in his optics. Sunstreaker looked over the drawing for a brief moment before folding it and placing it in his subspace. Sunstreaker gathered his things and left the empty storeroom as quickly as he arrived. Still, no one had a clue as to his activities and inspiration in his artwork, nor did they know where they went.

 Or did they?

Chapter Text

The party was in full swing, and mechs and femmes drank. The music was blaring, and Autobots were dancing. Most were overcharged, just as Sideswipe was currently. He choked on his drink as a new Autobot walked into the rec room. His plating shone, like the old sun before Cybertron was cast into darkness.

“Who’s that?” Sideswipe asked, quickly turning to Smokescreen as he wiped up the energon that had spilled onto his red chestplate.

“I think you need to be cut off,” Smokescreen said, grinning at his friend. Smokescreen grabbed Sideswipe’s cube from him, still smiling.

“As if you haven't had just as much, Smokey," Sideswipe said, scowling, making an attempt to grab the cube back. When Smokescreen just pulled it further away, he repeated, "Who was that?"

“The mech who just walked in?” Smokescreen asked. When Sideswipe nodded, Smokescreen answered, “Sunstreaker. He’s in my unit”.

“He’s gorgeous,” Sideswipe commented, “I want him”.

“Sides. You’re overcharged”.

“Your point,” Sideswipe argued.

“Trust me, you don’t want to. That one is an aft. Trust me on this,” Smokescreen said, cautioning his friend. Sunstreaker was an Autobot, but he was not a nice one.

“Maybe I’ll try my irresistible charm... and luck,” Sideswipe said, completely ignoring Smokescreen.  

“Sides. Don’t do it. You’ll end up in the medbay,” Smokescreen cautioned. He knew that Sunstreaker was a violent mech. That any mech or femme that encountered Sunstreaker would end up insulted or in the medbay for injuries sustained outside of battle.

“Don’t worry, Smokey,” Sideswipe said, getting up and patting him on the shoulder, “I’ll be fine”.

Smokescreen tried to protest once more, but Sideswipe was already walking towards Sunstreaker, who was sitting on a couch by himself. Sideswipe marvelled at the fact that Sunstreaker was alone, surely a mech that attractive would be surrounded by admirers. Before Sideswipe reached him, he grabbed two cubes from a passing tray. It was a party, after all.

“Hey.  I’m Sideswipe,” he said, trying to make his voice heard above the blaring music. Sideswipe offered Sunstreaker a cube, which he did take.

“What?” Sunstreaker said, taking a sip and looking him up and down.

“Sideswipe,” he said louder.

"What?" Sunstreaker repeated, motioning to his audios.

“SIDESWIPE,” then he sat down next to him. Sunstreaker glared at him, so Sideswipe shifted to the edge of the couch, creating an ample space between them. There was a period of silence.

“Aren’t you going to introduce yourself?” Sideswipe asked.

Sunstreaker tilted his helm, “Why should I?”

“I introduced myself and gave you a cube”.

“True”.

“You are quite rude, you know.”

“And you are overcharged,” Sunstreaker said.

“That is true. However, you are gorgeous. And maybe you want to join me outside,” Sideswipe suggested.

“And why in the universe would I do something like that?” Sunstreaker said, looking at the fellow Autobot with a hint of curiosity but mostly annoyance.

“'Cause I don’t think this is your scene,” Sideswipe said, standing up, offering his servo to the golden mech. Sunstreaker slapped it away before standing up. Sideswipe let Sunstreaker lead them out. Once outside, Sunstreaker turned. Sideswipe didn’t get any time to react before he found himself slammed against the wall, with Sunstreaker pinning him there.

“Now listen here. You reject. I have standards. And you don’t meet them,” Sunstreaker snarled.

Sideswipe smiled, placing his servos on the golden armour.

“That may be true. Though I think you might like this,” Sideswipe said. Sunstreaker was stunned as Sideswipe kissed him. The kiss was perfect. Then Sideswipe easily got out of Sunstreaker’s hold.

“Till next time, Sunshine”.

Sideswipe left Sunstreaker in the corridor, not seeing the slight smile on Sunstreaker’s lips.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe was chatting with Jazz and Smokescreen in the rec room. Then Sideswipe mentioned that he was friends with Sunstreaker. It was Smokescreen that spoke first

“Yeah, okay, Sides, very funny. We both know you’d never be able to befriend that arrogant, narcissistic aft: Sunstreaker”

Sideswipe turned to observe Jazz’s reaction. He was looking at Sideswipe like he was fearing for his sanity, wearing an expression of scepticism almost identical to Smokescreen's. Sideswipe was not too happy that their reactions were not that promising, and although he'd never expected telling them to be easy, he'd hoped it would be going a little better than it was.

"Sunstreaker’s not that bad once you get to know him,” Sideswipe said.

This time, Smokescreen and Jazz directed their looks of sheer bewilderment and concern at each other, silently communicating with each other via gestures. Smokescreen shrugged his shoulders and twitched his doorwings. Jazz tilted his helm and tapped his fingers against the table. Sideswipe resisted the urge to snap at them.

Sideswipe didn’t understand what the big deal was. It was true that Sunstreaker was an arrogant, narcissistic aft. However, it was difficult now that they were in the same unit. It was inevitable that they'd have to interact with each other at some point.

“Not that bad?” Smokescreen's voice was a little louder, “Are you glitched? That golden aft insults everyone he interacts with. He insulted Bluestreak so much that he cried. Sunstreaker even attacked Bumblebee!”. 

“I agree with Smokey,” Jazz said.

"It's not as bad as that! Just listen-"

“It’s Sunstreaker!” Smokescreen interrupted, unable to contain himself, “What are you thinking? He's an awful, insufferable large” He paused, struggling to find a word strong enough to express his hatred.

“Aft” Jazz filled in helpfully.

Smokescreen glared at him, and Sideswipe took the opportunity to carry on. “You two don’t have to spend time with him every cycle. Sunstreaker can be nice, in the right environment. You just have to give him a chance.”

Smokescreen opened his mouth to protest, but Sideswipe raised his servo to silence him.

“I know he insults a lot, and believe me, I'm not just going to sit back when he says something offensive”.

“You better not,” Smokescreen said.

“Look, I’m saying that Sunstreaker is not a completely terrible person!".

Smokescreen seemed unconvinced. Jazz took over the argument for him.

“Look, Sides. Sunshine is... isn’t the most agreeable. He doesn’t get along with anyone. And he used to hate you”.

“I... know that is true. I'm not denying it. I know he's not exactly the nicest mech alive, but he can change. It's true that he doesn't like others, but we've reached an agreement. He is going to try not to insult as much. And he will try to be more approachable,” Sideswipe explained.

Smokescreen turned to Jazz, and they had another silent conversation.

“I’m not asking you two to become friends or anything. Just treat him with respect, and he will do the same,” Sideswipe said.

“Fine,” Jazz said with a small grin.

Smokescreen nodded his helm.

“Thanks, mechs,” Sideswipe said.

Jazz leaned back into his chair, “Next, you’ll be telling us that you’re courting him”.

Sideswipe gave a weak smile, knowing that could be a possibility in the very near future. He really was dreading that particular discussion.

Chapter Text

Sideswipe backed up against the wall. It wasn’t a choice; he was surrounded by three large overcharged mechs whose expressions were anything but nonthreatening. Sideswipe knew how this was going to end.

“Fun times ahead for you, mech,” the ringleader leered at him.

The other mechs didn’t speak but appeared to agree with their ringleader. Sideswipe knew he was trapped; he could take on the three of them, but he would be banned from the club if he did. Sideswipe was on his last warning after participating in two fights that had broken out. He had not started the fights, but the manager didn’t care.

Sideswipe was too preoccupied with his thoughts that he didn’t notice the clearly overcharged mech with gold plating stumble over to them. He was carrying a flute of high grade. The gold mech shouted something that Sideswipe couldn’t make out to the ringleader over the deafening music.  Sideswipe hoped that he didn’t want to join in. Three was bad enough, but four?

Sideswipe analysed the gold mech; he was a war build. This mech had strong arms and a large upper body. He definitely looked like he could take on an army. Sideswipe did not want to fight this mech; he would lose for sure.

“Can’t you see we’re busy?” The ringleader trained his optics on the golden mech, still swaying in time with the music.

The golden mech spoke, but Sideswipe didn't want to find out what the words were. He knew they couldn't be to his benefit. The two other mechs left, leaving the ringleader and golden mech behind. The two stared at each other. Then the ringleader laughed, mocking the golden mech who struck him. The ringleader lay on the ground, knocked out with one punch. The golden mech looked at Sideswipe and gave him his drink.

Sideswipe accepted it awkwardly as the golden mech, stared at him. Sideswipe decided that it was time to leave. He tried to leave, only for the golden mech to stop him. What happened next was something Sideswipe couldn’t comprehend. The golden mech kissed him, right there under the strobing lights. Sideswipe was too shocked as the golden mech smiled and then left him, wandering off into the crowd.

Chapter Text

“You look nice... and smell nice too”

“Sunstreaker. You are overcharged,” Sideswipe said, looking at the swaying golden mech, which let out a little hiccup.

“Can I touch you?”

“Umm. How about no?” Sideswipe said, backing away.

“Please Si-Sides”

“No, Sunstreaker,” Sideswipe said.

“You s-said my, my... full d-designation.... I’m s-so... happy”.

“Okay,” Sideswipe said, creating more space between them. However, Sunstreaker saw his actions and reacted. Sunstreaker stumbled forward, tripping over his peds. He fell face-first onto the floor.  Sideswipe offered his servo, which Sunstreaker gripped with a smile. Sunstreaker stood back up. Then wrapped his arms around Sideswipe, squeezing him.

“Yay, I-I got... You,” Sunstreaker cried out. Sideswipe winced as Sunstreaker was a little too loud.

“Okay... you got me,” Sideswipe admitted, “So maybe you could let me go”.

“NO,” Sunstreaker shouted, “I like t-this. You are... so likable.... and friendly”.

Sideswipe didn’t know what to do. How was he supposed to deal with an overcharged Sunstreaker? The most unpopular mech in the universe, or maybe that was Sideswipe’s opinion because Sunstreaker was an aft. Then Sunstreaker started giggling. And Sideswipe decided that he was done. He was not going to deal with an overcharged Sunstreaker, no matter how much blackmail material he might gather.

Sideswipe tried to shift Sunstreaker’s arm, but it didn’t budge. Just how strong was he?

“W-What... are y-you... doing?” Sunstreaker asked. Then he belched, and Sideswipe almost gagged. The smell was a little too much, just how strong was the high-grade that Sunstreaker had consumed? Sideswipe decided that since he was not able to escape, he might as well drag Sunstreaker to the barracks, where he could recharge. Hopefully, Sunstreaker would let him.

“Nothing. Let’s go back to the barracks,” Sideswipe suggested.

“YES,” Sunstreaker shouted. Then he giggled and let Sideswipe go; he led Sunstreaker down the corridor.

“Okay. I have to know who got you this overcharged”.

“Jazz” Sunstreaker slurred.

“Why am I not surprised. Stop giggling! There's nothing funny."

"Yes, t-there is, y-you are funny. Can I t-touch you?"

“I said No” Sideswipe repeated.

“But I-I wanna t-touch you.... You h-have a... p-pretty frame...... Your optics are pretty too”.

“You’re crazy when you’re overcharged,” Sideswipe said.

“I’m not. I-I just... feel so good... but if y-you really want me.... to feel b-better than you s-should kiss me. Oh look! You're all flustered. Can y-you take off your-mmmff…"

Sideswipe had placed his hand over Sunstreaker’s running mouth. Thankfully, they reached the barracks. Sideswipe keyed in the code. They stumbled inside. Then Sideswipe yanked his servo away, looking disgusted.

“Did you just... lick my servo?” Sideswipe asked.

“Yes... I-I.. Y-You taste... so ... good”.  

Sideswipe didn’t know how to process that bit of information, giving Sunstreaker a perfect opportunity to grab him again.

“G-Got.... you” Sunstreaker announced, then giggled. Sideswipe had just about had enough as he could take. Then Sunstreaker stumbled, and they landed on the surface of a berth. Their lips met, and in that instant, Sideswipe was surprised by how soft Sunstreaker’s lips were. Sideswipe felt the plush surface of the berth as Sunstreaker pushed him into it. His lips deepening the kiss. Sideswipe wanted to get away as fast as possible. Thankfully, Sunstreaker ruined the kiss by burping.

Sideswipe managed to push Sunstreaker off him, who tumbled onto the berth.

“Okay... Good night, Sunstreaker,” Sideswipe said. Then he raced for the door, leaving Sunstreaker alone.

Chapter Text

Not once in his short, miserable 800 vorns of life had Sunstreaker ever experienced such anger, such pain. He felt as if a burning hot fire was raging through his frame, and all he wanted to do was tear someone apart with his own servos. Bluestreak to be exact.

The twins had been walking down the corridor to the training room for combat instruction. Only for Sideswipe to encounter that stupid sniper in the corridor. They immediately started chatting, with Bluestreak getting into Sideswipe’s personal space. Before long, Bluestreak put his arm over Sideswipe’s shoulders as they talked and walked. Sunstreaker growled, staring ahead. He desperately wanted to rip off the arm that was currently draped over Sideswipe’s shoulder, and more than anything else, he wanted Sideswipe. It was quite ironic and unfair that the one person Sunstreaker wanted more in the universe was the only individual he was capable of loving.

The one individual he truly wanted.

Sunstreaker wasn't quite sure when this crush had first started, or when the crush had slowly developed into love. However, he did know that seeing Sideswipe, his Sideswipe with anyone, was pure torture. It made him feel that he didn’t catch his twin’s gaze. Sunstreaker was the best-looking mech in the universe, but Sideswipe went for others that were unworthy. Nevertheless, Sunstreaker knew he could never have him because Sideswipe was his twin.

Sunstreaker was, in general, a realistic person, and he knew that there was no way in the pit that Sideswipe could ever like him, let alone love him. He only had himself to blame for that. Maybe if Sunstreaker hadn’t listened to his creators and educators about the dangers of twins. Maybe if Sunstreaker didn’t push Sideswipe away at every opportunity, he and Sideswipe might have a better sibling relationship.

Or maybe if Sunstreaker had accepted Sideswipe’s help and advice instead of insulting him. Sideswipe may have realised that deep inside Sunstreaker was a good person. Sunstreaker knew that he could be nice, he had in the past, but Sideswipe had looked at him weirdly when he did.

Or maybe if Sunstreaker had thrown himself more in front of Sideswipe, protecting him from their abusive creators. Sideswipe would not have physical and emotional scars.

Or if Sunstreaker had been more open to Sideswipe, sharing his emotions. So that Sideswipe would not have to guess his twin’s mood.

Or maybe if Sunstreaker didn’t take out his anger on Sideswipe, who didn’t deserve to be Sunstreaker’s personal punching bag.

But Sunstreaker hadn't done any of those things. Not one. So now, all he could do was watch as the pair chatted. Sunstreaker wanted to stride over and do something drastic to prove his claim on his twin. Instead, Sunstreaker gritted his denta as Sideswipe and Bluestreak left him behind, continuing their conversation without him.

Chapter Text

“You fragging punched me, SUNNY! What is wrong with you?”

“Not the first time I did”.

Sideswipe places his servo on his faceplate to stop the energon loss.

“I am bleeding, Sunny, and you have gone absolutely mad—"

Sunstreaker growls, his narrowed optics blazing and his vents working overtime —all from anger.

“You’re an idiot, Sides. I’m so sick of you” Sunstreaker grinds his denta, the friction almost causing sparks to fly, "just stay away from me."

Sunstreaker turns to stomp away, only for Sideswipe to grab his elbow and stop him. Spinning around, Sunstreaker’s mouth opens to sprout threats at him, which Sideswipe ignores.

“For Primus’s sake. I’m sorry, okay? I was just trying to save your fragging life, and you're doing this to me! What the hell, Sunny? And when you got help from someone, I thought you were supposed to say 'thank you' or something— not punch them in the fucking face and break their nose. Maybe you display violence to show how grateful you are, huh? Is that right—"

“You almost died!” Sunstreaker shouts, interrupting Sideswipe’s tirade. Then he adds “We’ve been losing so many on our side... I... I... can’t...”.

Sideswipe saw that Sunstreaker was struggling, unable to get the words out. The bond was a mix of emotions that Sideswipe was unable to read.

Sunstreaker lets out a wordless scream, something between anguish and frustration.  Then hits him repeatedly on his chest, shoulders, everywhere. It was painful because Sunstreaker is stronger and hits hard. However, Sideswipe stands still and silently accepts Sunstreaker’s tantrum. Sometimes Sideswipe asks himself why he puts up with this. However, he knows the answer to that.

Then Sunstreaker embraces him, but he squeezes Sideswipe too tightly. Sideswipe welcomes the relief from the end of the onslaught of punches and flinches because he's definitely got dents.

"Swear that you won't do that ever again." Sunstreaker’s voice had come out muffled and a little hoarse. Sideswipe is stunned; he struggles to recall the last time he heard that tone of voice from his twin.

“Yes. Sunny. Anything else?" His words are soaked in sarcasm, and it is supposedly a bad time for such things.

Sunstreaker growls threateningly, and Sideswipe prepares himself for another punch. However, Sunstreaker doesn’t attack him.

“You mean it?” Sunstreaker’s tone is quiet and soft, nothing like his usual self.

"Yeah." Even Sideswipe is surprised at his own sincerity.

“Okay,” Sunstreaker lets him go. The two just look at each other.

"You really should clean that energon off your face plate. It's reaching your chin now."

And Sideswipe becomes enraged and snarls. It was all Sunstreaker’s fault that he had to go to the medbay, though Sideswipe is mad at himself for forgetting.

Chapter Text

It’s the high grade that makes him say it, or the way Sunstreaker smirked at him. Maybe it’s the new wax Sunstreaker used, or the way Sunstreaker’s flute is halfway to his lips. Perhaps it’s the fact that it’s been a long time coming.  

“What did you say?”

The rec room is crowded, making the noise level unbearable and loud. Shouts, cries, and laughter echoed through the space, but between them, it’s silent. There's barely any space between them because this table is minuscule to start with, but being near him has constantly been suffocating. Sunstreaker is attractive, and he knows it. Sideswipe had been building up the courage for cycles to say it, and high grade ruined the moment.

Sunstreaker still stares at him when Sideswipe pushes away, his chair screeching against the ragged floor. Sideswipe bolts out the door with Sunstreaker following him.

“Sides!” Not Sideswipe, but his nickname. Just why did Sunstreaker have to be stubborn and chase his brother down the halls? Sunstreaker is calling his designation, no doubt in drawing attention.

And then Sideswipe trips. Damn his clumsy self. Why is he so coordinated on the battlefield but not when off?

“Wait,” Sunstreaker grabs Sideswipe, forcing him to his peds with a surprising amount of strength. "Stop running away from me."

Sideswipe was stunned. Sunstreaker had chased him and caught him.

“Let me go, Sunstreaker. You can spare me the letdown. It was an accident, just drunken words that we're better off forgetting”.

As if Sunstreaker would. Sideswipe would have to transfer to the other side of the planet because Sunstreaker would never let him live this down.

“What?” Sunstreaker sighed, “Do you really think I would reject you in public?”

“Yes,” Sideswipe hesitantly answered.

“Idiot,” Sunstreaker says, “I do that to others because they are unworthy of me”.

Sideswipe’s spark sank in his chest. He knew what was coming. Sunstreaker was going to reject him, and Sideswipe would become a laughingstock of the entire Autobot crew.

"Tell me it was an accident then.” Sunstreaker pauses, “And I'll let you go”.

“It... It's..” Sideswipe stammered. The rush of high grade was gone, now. He was defenceless. Sideswipe considers whether to tell the truth or lie.

“I-It was an accident. Nothing more,” Sideswipe admits, lying.

Sunstreaker snorts. “Really?”

“Yes,” Sideswipe clarifies, wanting Sunstreaker to believe him and let it go. That it was all a drunken mistake on Sideswipe’s part, maybe Sideswipe should have slurred his words and giggled to act drunk. Then Sunstreaker pushes Sideswipe against the wall. In a split second, Sunstreaker places his lips over Sideswipe's. The kiss was everything Sideswipe dreamed it would be; their lips matched perfectly. Sideswipe forgets everything else. Well, not quite everything else.

“I love you too,” Sunstreaker whispers. Sideswipe smiles.

Chapter Text

Sunstreaker was feeling murderous. He was furious because Tracks had insulted his frame, which had led to Sunstreaker destroying several drones in the training room. The minibots had insulted him, calling him a Deception, so Sunstreaker had punched them, resulting in him being sent to the brig for infighting again. Then, to make matters worse, Bluestreak had been his guard, who talked nonstop for his shifts. And the cherry on top was that he never got any time to spend with his twin, let alone spend time in the berth.

Sunstreaker was sick of it. He knew it was for the best; no one would like their relationship, but he couldn't stand it anymore. Sunstreaker needs to kiss, touch, and interface with his twin. Then Sunstreaker heard a familiar laugh echoing through the corridor. Sunstreaker stalked down it, pushing Autobots out of his way. Many glared at him but did not engage; they knew better.

Sunstreaker entered the rec room and stopped dead. There was Sideswipe, his helm tilted back, howling in laughter. Jazz and Smokescreen were laughing with him. Sunstreaker wanted to grab him, pin him against the wall, and kiss him senseless. Sunstreaker didn’t care if all these Autobots were watching; he needed Sideswipe. NOW.

Sideswipe noticed that the rec room went quiet. Sideswipe turned to see Sunstreaker standing there, arms crossed. Sunstreaker was glaring at anyone who glanced his way. He was as unapproachable as ever, just like he usually was. Sideswipe gave a little smile, which was what broke Sunstreaker.

“Frag it,” Sunstreaker growled. He strode over and pulled Sideswipe’s chair out. He was surprised as Sunstreaker sat on his lap.

“Um... Sunny”.

Sunstreaker wrapped his arms around Sideswipe, bringing his helm to his. Sunstreaker pressed his lips to his; it was a relief, a freedom, needed. The protests of the other Autobots were drowned out by the desperate hands clinging to one another, the lips fighting.

“Secret’s out,” Sideswipe muttered, brushing his lips across Sunstreaker’s perfect lips.

“Oops," Sunstreaker replied, nibbling Sideswipe’s lip gently.

Chapter Text

“I’m bigger than you,” Sunstreaker announced, swaying as he did. The Autobots were celebrating another victory against the Decepticons. Nearly all the crew were pleasantly plastered. Sunstreaker had definitely gone over his limit, so had Sideswipe.

"No, you're not. Just look! How could you be bigger than me?" Sideswipe asked, whining like a sparkling.

"I am!"

"Not!"

"Am!"

"Not!"

"Am!"

"Not!"

"Am!"

"Not!"

"This is stupid! It's obvious that I'm bigger!" Sunstreaker said, getting into Sideswipe’s space.

“No! You're stupid! That's why you only think you're bigger!" Sideswipe said, not backing away from Sunstreaker.

"We need someone to tell you that I'm bigger than you!" Sunstreaker said, gesturing to the crowd. Most were watching in amusement or slowly backing away from the drama.

“No. We need someone to tell you that I'm bigger!” Sideswipe looked at the crowd. He spotted Bluestreak. “Blue! Come here”, Sideswipe gestured Bluestreak over. The crowd helped the poor sniper along until he stood in front of Sideswipe.

“What is it, Sides?” Bluestreak asked.

“Please tell Sunny that I am bigger than him!"

“No! Tell Sides. I’m bigger,” Sunstreaker said, acting like a sparkling, rather than a million-year-old adult.

“I don’t know. I don’t really interact with you, Sunstreaker. I’m normally with Sideswipe than you,” Bluestreak chattered.

“Unfairness. Bias” Sunstreaker said, “We need someone else!”.

“We can’t ask Smokescreen because he'll probably just say the same thing as Blue," Sideswipe said, trying to think of someone else.

“And Jazz is with Blaster... It'll take forever to get them apart!" Sunstreaker said. They were running out of options. Thankfully, Ratchet was in the rec room drinking with Wheeljack.

“Ratchet! Tell us which one of us is bigger!”.

“Do you really want to know, Sideswipe?” Ratchet asked with a knowing smirk. Sideswipe paused. Did Ratchet already know the truth?

“I want to know,” Sunstreaker announced.

“Fine... Get next to each other so I can show everyone,” Ratchet ordered.

The twins positioned themselves back-to-back as the crowd observed.

“I’m bigger. Aren’t I?” Sideswipe said.

“No. You’re not Sideswipe. Sunstreaker is bigger,” Ratchet announced. Sideswipe spun around.

“That can't be right! Go get the ruler!".

Sunstreaker smirked, knowing he was the taller one.

Prowl paused his discussion with Smokescreen and observed the source of the disturbance occurring in the centre of the recreation room. He sighed upon recognising the individuals responsible for the commotion. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker. They were always competing with each other. And it looked like just another competition. However, it was Sideswipe who was the pouting twin this time.

Prowl stood up and walked over to the pair.

“That is enough. Break it up,” He ordered. Surprisingly, the twins obeyed. Then he turned to Sideswipe and placed his hand on his shoulder.

“Do not worry.   I'm sure that when you grow up, you'll be just as tall as Sunstreaker”.

Sunstreaker howled with laughter as Sideswipe spluttered.

Chapter Text

“I love you.”

It is remarkable that such a brief phrase could leave the Autobots' best frontliner without words. Sunstreaker stood there like a statue, as Sideswipe’s mouth remained open. The words were spoken while the twins were engaged in a disagreement.

Sideswipe watched as several emotions danced across Sunstreaker’s sharp features. Then hardened. Sunstreaker sneered; he couldn’t believe that Sideswipe used those words during an argument. Sunstreaker was venting heavily, his vocalizer on the verge of breaking, and he was angry. Who did Sideswipe think he was? Why would Sideswipe think he could measure up to someone as great as him? Sideswipe was a tag-along. Holding him back. Besides, Sunstreaker had standards, and Sideswipe didn’t meet them.

Sunstreaker watched Sideswipe as he realized what he had said. Sideswipe closed his mouth, staying silent, waiting for Sunstreaker to respond. He scoffed.

“Pathetic”

“What?” Sideswipe questioned.

“You are pathetic. I am done with you,” Sunstreaker said. He turned to leave, and only then was Sideswipe able to do something more than stare. Then he jolted to action.

“Wait”.

Sideswipe took a few unsteady steps forward. Sunstreaker paused but looked over his broad shoulder. Sideswipe came to a halt at Sunstreaker’s glare.

“Don’t follow me,” Sunstreaker ordered. “I need space. You are too clingy.”

“But! I meant it,” Sideswipe protested.

Sunstreaker laughed mockingly.

“You may love me,” Sunstreaker paused, “But I don’t love you. At all”

Sideswipe’s face fell. Sunstreaker continued talking.

“You are slow, weak. Not worthy of my time and space” Sunstreaker paused, “The only reason we are together is because you are my brother. My twin. I wish you were never created. I would be happy if I were alone because you are always holding me back”.

Sideswipe tried not to cry, but he felt optical fluid build up. How could he had been so stupid? To think that Sunstreaker loved him. It felt like his spark was breaking. It was too much.

“See. You’re going to cry now. Off you go. I don’t need to see how pathetic you are,” Sunstreaker said, smirking as he did.

Sideswipe took an astro second to register the words before he turned and fled. He left Sunstreaker standing in the corridor as he ran. Sunstreaker watched him go. He turned and wiped away the optical fluid that had gathered. He was not going to cry like his pathetic brother, even though his own spark was breaking as well.