If At First You Don’t Succeed…Try The Closet Trick


Disclaimer: I don’t own transformers. Nothing about them, that’s Hasbro. G1 version ppl. This story contains slash, meaning in this case:  gay robot/robot loving. If this isn’t your brand of tea * Opens vault door with aisles of fiction * I suggest you take another pick and vamoose.

Pairings : Optimus/Bee (duh), Wheeljack/Ratchet, Sunny/Sides and many more.




Prowl watched his pray like a hawk, his optics never once wavering from their mission. He could feel his processor run every scenario that could hinder his plan. Not that he would let any stand in his way. Smirking, he waited patiently in the shadows for the right moment.

Jazz sighed in annoyance. The day had started off well, waking up in the arms of his bonded, watching the relaxed face of his lover in recharge and remembering their actions during the night. He smirked remembering the sound of squeaks and groan of the berth beneath them. He nearly bust a circuit when Prowl said that they might need a bigger berth. It wasn’t how it was said but more of the way Prowl said it with a straight face that had Jazz laughing.

Stopping he looked around feeling that something was out of place. He was heading toward Prowls office to go over some recent data when, as the humans put it, he got chills running down his back. He looked through the corner of his visor to the security camera knowing it was at least operational but that wasn’t causing the uneasiness. He actually waved to the camera knowing Red Alert was on shift this evening.

About to turn the next corner two hands grabbed him, one covering his mouth the other going around his waist.

“Going somewhere Jazz.”  Jazz stopped fighting as soon as he heard Prowl. Instead he leaned into the awkward embrace.

“Trying to find you actually.” Jazz leaned back tilting his head as Prowls lips traced the lower part of his neck. “Frag! No, um offence Prowl, what brought this on?” He felt the chuckle more than heard it.

“Between patrol, the heavy Decepticon activity and the mountain of data to shift through last night was the only time we’ve spent time together in the last two weeks. And that doesn’t include time spent in the med bay. I’ve missed you .” Jazz’s audio picked up the strain in the last words.

“Missed you too love.  Things gotten  really crazy ‘round here.” Jazz sighed turning Prowl around to face him. “But at least were still here.” Prowl nodded taking a deep breath looking at his partner. “So, why the ambush?” he grinned pinning Prowl against the wall running hands along the seams of Prowls back.  

“Dead zone for the camera.” Prowl sighed as those digit’s teased his most sensitive spots.

“Mmmhmm, how bout a break. I doubt these files will be going anywhere.”

“Yes a wise idea.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~    

Optimus Prime sighed as he read over the data files on the past three months of Decepticons
activity. He especially grimaced when the last mission surfaced. Megatron had located a large supply of radioactive material (1) that was being moved from a facility to a more secure location due to safety issues from the power plant. During the encounter some of the material had leaked near his battle with Megatron. Unfortunately for him, Skywarp noticed and sent two missiles straight for the containers. Optimus would have very much been off lined if he wasn’t shoved from behind and out of harms way. The explosion caused a chain reaction explosions rocking the ground worst than Rumble on an energon blitz. The noxious fumes seared his optics and for once Prime was glad for his battle mask.  Just when he thought everything else was going to the pit Inferno and Seaspray were able to get most of the blaze under control. And as always the Decepticons retreated seeing  no other season to stay.

Ironhide and Bluestreak had help Prime get his bearing back but it was the scene in front of him that really had his head reeling. Ratchet was kneeling over Bumblebee already at work. The yellow mini-bot was heavily singed and his chassis was nearly melted, energon leaking onto the ground. Those fading blue optics looked over to him a shaking arm crawling at the dirt to reach for him before stopping.

“Op..tim…us.” Sparks jumped out along Bumblebee’s neck, Ratchet yelling at him for using his voice and to stop moving about.

Optimus could barely remember the trip back to the base, his mind more focused on what had possessed Bumblebee to take such a risk. He could only watch as Wheeljack and Ratchet took Bumblebee into the medical area the doors shutting in his face. Turning around he noticed more than half the Autobots standing in the hallway. Sideswipe was leaning against his brother, glaring murder at the door and for once Sunstreaker wasn’t complaining about his paint job being messed up. Jazz was standing by Prowls side, a bit battered but still functional. Optimus took in the rest of the groups condition glad yet at the same time upset at himself for the one that was truly wounded.

“Don’t you even fraggin’ think about it.” Optimus turned to see Sideswipe’s glare on him now. Even Sunstreaker seemed surprised at his twin’s words. Sideswipe winced, hand grabbing at his brothers arm.

“Sideswipe?” Optimus stop short of the red twin when he held up his hand sighing.

“If you can’t even figure it out then I’m sure as hell not spelling this part out for you. Come on Sunny.” He tapped on his brothers uninjured arm. “But I will say this and I think it goes for everyone here Optimus and I’m only saying this once. You’re not the only one fighting in this war, remember that.”

“You and your big mouth Sides. “ Sunstreaker muttered to his brother nearly having to carry him as the red mech faltered on their way down the hall.

“Does that mean you don’t love me anymore?”  Sideswipe battered tired optics to his brother grinning like a maniac. The yellow twin just sighed holding the other close.

“Bit brain.”

Optimus looked at the retreating forms than back at the others. Ironhide just shrugged soon regretting the action as his shoulder joint reminded him it was damage. Minutes ticked by and there was still no news on the young bot. The hall way was nearly empty after three hours save for Optimus Jazz and Prowl. First Aid had returned from the lounge where he set up a temporary medic unit, Ratchet and Wheeljack appointed him to deal with the minor injured, to look over the last three.

“You three look like slag.” He handed them each a mug of energon and began his work in silence. It didn’t take him long, but he was a bit nervous when he reached Optimus. He looked up at his leader regarding him with a critical optic when the other didn’t even flinch as he seared a nasty tear on his knee joint.

“He’ll be fine Optimus. Bumblebee is stronger than he looks, don’t lose sight of that.”  Lifting himself up he looked around at the three. “And as worried as you all my be, standing here in the middle of the hallways won’t help Bee any if you all pass out from exhaustion. A few hours of recharge will help more.” Optimus was ready to protest but thought better of it.

“Inform me of any changes ASAP.” As soon as he entered his quarters Optimus felt his knees give in and fall to the ground. A quick grab to the berth saved him from falling face first on the metal floor. His breath was coming out in sharp gasps, his mind was spinning and his spark ached as if Ravage himself was using it as a chew toy. Every time he closed his optics, be could see pale blue ones flash  in his mind.

“Bumblebee.” he choked out the name, his vocals straining to try and say more. Never had he felt like this, no not even … not even when Elita was taken from him.

“Pl..ea.se. N…ot ag..ain.” Crawling up on shaky legs, Optimus could hardly feel the cool metal of the recharge berth beneath him.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  

At first Optimus didn’t know what had woken him up. He could barely remember how he reached his room. Shaking his head he turned to his door where a loud pounding was coming from. He groaned in pain as his aching body protested the action. Steadying himself he open the door coming face to face with Prowl.

“He’s awake.” Prowl had to jump back as Optimus rushed out of the room not even once looking back.
As he neared the med bay he slowed down his thoughts finally catching up with the rest of him.

*What am I thinking. Ratchet will want him to rest after that ordeal.*

About to turn around the doors opened Ratchet standing behind them arms crossed. He was smeared in energon, lubricant and his optics seemed slightly dim. Behind him in the far corner he could see Wheeljack hooking up an energon line to a port in Bumblebee’s upper arm. He saw the yellow bot wince in pain but smiled knowing it had to be done.  

“He’s been calling for you. Couldn’t remember what happened after the hit.” Ratchet led him to the examining table, smiling slightly as the yellow bot’s eyes seem to brighten.

“Optimus! You’re ok.” Optimus tried not wince at the scratchy voice. He nodded not trusting his own voice at the moment. He looked over at the repairs noticing for once that there were even more wires and tubes attached to Bumblebee.

“I’m fine Bumblebee. It’s you that’s had everyone worried. How are you feeling?’ For a split second Optimus thought he saw those optics dim to black as they shifted to the side.

“Fine sir. I didn’t mean to make everyone worry. It’s nothings.”

“Nothing? Nothing!I’ll have you know that Wheeljack and I have been in here for thirteen hours straight working on you. DO you have any  idea how many times we nearly lost you.? I swear to Primus, you’re getting as bad as those twins.”  Ratchet slammed his hands on the exam table eyeing Bumblebee with a scowl on his face. He was met with a somewhat confused look  from his patient, then looked at Wheeljack for help on the matter.

“Ratchet’s right kiddo. That slop nearly burned a hole into your spark casing and you know what would have happened then. Just be glad you’re alive.” He had hoped that would helped the confused bot but the next words out Bumblebees mouth had the opposite effect.

“I’m expandable. We need Optimus more than you need me.” There was nothing but an eerie silence, no one knowing what to say. Optimus could feel his spark nearly stop in it’s casing, his body freezing. Wheeljack turned wide optics to his bond mate never imagining hearing those words come out of any mech’s mouth. Ratchet was not at all pleased as he watched the yellow mech’s optics stare at some unforeseen object against the wall to his left. His own optics slanted over to Optimus watching his leader’s action if any were given at all. All but breaking the present tool in his hand, Ratchet let out a shaky breath before stealing his nerves. He and Wheeljack had been prepared for something like this and it look like a course of action would need to take place. With a final look to his lover Ratchet let the first part start.

“And as true as that maybe, it doesn’t make it any easier piecing you or anyone else back together. Now then,” he turned to Optimus and pointing to the door. “ since you’ve both realized the other is well and not offline I deem this visit officially over.” And with that said Ratchet all but knocked Bumblebee back on the examining table, his optics basically telling him he moved he’s scrap and Wheeljack showed Optimus the door.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few hours later the med bay doors hissed open allowing two new arrivals in. The two looked around noticing the slumbering mech on the far side of the room. Another door to their left opened  Ratchet smiling at the two.

“What ever it is, it wasn’t our fault.” Sideswipe held out his hands in defense. Wheeljack rolled his optics stepping out from behind Ratchet to drag the two into other room. Once all was secure Ratchet seated himself at his desk. Sunstreaker looked around noticing they were not alone in the small room. Prowl nodded in acknowledgement, Jazz gave the twins a smile leaning against the other, Red Alert looked around nervously nodding his head at the two and Inferno chuckled waving his hand the other sliding around Red Alert to bring the smaller mech to his side. The brothers looked at each other and the interesting selection that made up this group.

“Mind telling us what this was all about. We do have other things to do today.”  Ratchet snorted his arms crossing his chest.

“Polishing yourself till you blind us is a bit less important than this.” That got everyone smiling some even chuckling. Sunstreaker glared at his brother, the red mech brushing off the offensive look.

“All right that’s enough of that. The reason why I asked for you six here and I’m sure you also have an idea.”

“Bee and Prime.” Everyone looked at Jazz, the saboteur sounding grim. Nearly everyone knew of the yellow mini bots feelings for their leader. Prowl had corned Bumblebee one time noticing his performance was wavering and had not let him go until said mech broke down. Unsure of what to do, Prowl had called out for Jazz through their own bond. The two help to comfort the distressed  mech until he slipped into recharge. Unfortunately the next day Bumblebee acted as if nothing had even happened.

“You think he was trying to get himself killed from that last battle?” This time it was Red Alert that spoke out.

“Usually I wouldn’t go that far, until earlier today Bumblebee said that we needed Prime more than him.” Ratchet said looking at the various reaction to the news. Ratchet noticed the look in Sideswipe optics, his own  narrowing.

“And what pray tell is running though that corrupted processor of yours.”

Sunstreaker looked into his twins optics, a twisted smile gracing his face.

“I think we have just the solution. Crude but from what we’ve seen efficient. Listen up.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For once it was a quiet day for any Autobot staying  in the Ark. Many sought out the lounge, some chattering with friends, others watching whatever was on the tube and some just enjoying the lazy afternoon warm weather. Optimus smiled watching his friends enjoying themselves for once. The smile turned into a grimace as his vision flickered back to the data pad he was currently reading. Resuming his trek back through the corridors, he was so caught up with the report that he literally stumbled into Red Alert.

“Oh, my apologies Optimus. Terrible sorry, such a rush, its awful…”

“Easy there Red. What’s wrong?” Optimus tried calming the nervous mech in front of him. Red Alert was looking from the path he emerged from and the path behind Optimus not sure if he should have stopped.

“It’s Bumblebee sir. Ratchet said it was fine for him to return to his quarters as long as he took things easy. I was helping Prowl and Jazz sift through a storage closet  when he asked if he could assist us.”

“What happened? Is Bumblebee alright?” Optimus didn’t like the way the conversation was going, especially if Ratchet found out Bumblebee had disobeyed a order from the medic.  

“Well it was until Bumblebee entered the storage room. I turned around to find the door shut and refusing to reopen no matter what code we entered. Bumblebee was also unable to open the door from his side and Prowl refuses to use any other method of force in case there’s anything that may prove …explosive.”

“Where are Jazz and Prowl now?”

“Looking for Grimlock I believe. I was told to do the same or anyone else that may be able to help.”

“Alright then. Go see if you can’t find Wheeljack as well as the others. Which storage room is it?”

“Three rooms after the medbay sir, it’s the newer structured rooms that we were planning on recreating as a expansion for wash barracks.”

“Understood, now go. I’ll meet you and the others there.”

Wasting no time Optimus ran toward the said hallway scanning the seemingly same type of doors. Feeling like an eternity Optimus finally came to the right door before punching in his own code. As Read Alert had said the code was refused, the panel blinking red at him. Cursing, Optimus leaned forward sighing in annoyance. What  he didn’t see was two sets of blue optics from the door behind him.

“Ready, bro.” Sideswipe smirked looking at his twin than back down at the device in his hand.

“We were sparked ready Sunny.” And with that said he pushed the button and Sunstreaker suddenly disappeared from view.

“Remind me to thank Mirage for this little trick.” Sneaking up behind Prime, Sunstreaker motion to his brother through their spark for phase three to take part.

“Too slow Prime.“  both the twins smirks grew as they heard the surprise shout from their leader as the door was suddenly opened and he was pushed in, the door locking back in place.

“Well that part of the mission is accomplished. Now it’s up to those bit brains to do the rest.” Sideswipe nearly jumped as those words were whispered into his ear.

“Frag it all Sunny, warn me when your gonna sneak up on me like that.”  He gave his brother a glare as the barrier keeping him invisible wore off and his smirking twin leered at him. Sunstreaker leaned in hand caressing his brothers face down to those lips.

“Can I help it if I love the look on your face when it’s scrunched up in shock like that.” Not giving his brother time to reply Sunny pulled Side to him his lips devouring those of his twins.


“Ahh, what in the name of Cybertron was that?” Optimus rubbed at the dent on his helm from when he crashed into a pile of storage units. Looking around he noticed the dimly lit room was packed with boxes in every corner of the room and along side it. Feeling something move below him he turned his head back down to be greeted with another pair of blue optics.

“Bumblebee!” Moving to the side he helped the younger bot in a sitting position. “Are you alright?”

“Aside from you landed on me, yeah I’m fine.” Getting up he wavered a bit, feeling himself falling back until two blue hands steadied him. Grinning up sheepishly, Bumblebee rubbed at his knee. “Well mostly feeling better.”

“Hey Bee, you still in there?” the two heard Jazz’s muffled voice from the other side.

“Still here, but at least I have company this time.”

“Company? What glitch head got himself locked up now?”  Jazz smirked knowing who the other was. Prowl just shook his head at his partner.

“That glitch head would be me Jazz. You’ll have to excuse me if my concern for the situation outweighed my logic this time around.” Seeing he wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon Optimus sat down beside Bumblebee waiting for Jazz to answer. “Guess that leash Prowl has him isn’t tight enough.” He turned talking to the yellow bot knowing that if Jazz was there Prowl was also present.  Bumblebee tried hard not to laugh at loud at the outburst from the door, only to fail miserably. The four continued to talk about the predicament also noticing the materials stored in some of the storage containers. A few of the belongings were hazardous chemicals, most likely  belong to Wheeljack, and a few weapons and memorabilia from Cybertron.

“I guess blastin’ ya out is out of the question.” Jazz pointed to Prowl, signaling it was his turn to pick a card. The Datsun looked closely at his hand reaching for the deck before speaking, not once missing a beat.

“It also appears that the Dinobots are also unattainable at the moment. They were asked to appear at a new exhibit at one of the zoo’s  in the east coast…for the remainder of the month. We still are presently trying to figure out just why this door won’t open.”

Optimus nearly groaned at hearing Prowl start. His optics narrowed at the laughing mech next to him. As much as Prowl was thorough  in his reports there were times Optimus found himself dreading having to hear what he already knew about the situation. To him it seemed that Prowl was doing this on purpose, but for what he had no answer for. Optimus was startled out of his thoughts from a muffled yawn coming from Bumblebee. The smaller mech’s optics were faded as another yawn escaped his mouth. Leaning against one of the lest hazardous units Optimus pulled him closer letting the tired mech rest his head against his chest plate. Optimus smiled behind his battle mask as Bumblebee relaxed in his embrace and wrapped his own arms around the larger mech.

“If this is a dream, don’ wake me up.” came the muffled reply. “Love you Optimus.”

He froze as those words were spoken, too good to be true. Looking down at the slumbering face he reached out when there was a knock on the door.

“um Prime you still there?”

“Yes, but keep you’re voice down. Bumblebee is asleep.”

“Asleep huh. I guess it’s better then nothing since I doubt there’s a berth you two could use to recharge.” Ratchets voice joined in the small group that had gathered at the door. “I told him to go straight to his quarters and rest. Can’t you two pit spawns do anything by yourselves?” Leaving the two to mock fight Prowl turned back to the door wondering just how close this scheme of theirs was working.

“Trailbreaker returned a few minutes ago discovering some Decepticon activity. With your permission I’d like to head out with a few troops to confirm and engage if necessary.”

Prime sighed shaking his head. He had hoped that something like this wouldn’t happen while he was trapped but fate seemed to be against him this day.  

“Very well, but engage only if necessary, I don’t want anyone taking risks if they don’t have to.”

“Right. We will return soon and…try again with your current predicament.”

Hearing them leave Optimus released the breath he was holding in. Leaning his head back he decided that a nap would do him some good.

“Sweet dreams Bumblebee.”

                                          ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was warm, that much Optimus knew. The warmth caressed the side of his helm down to his battle mask and up to the other side of his face. Trying hard not to make a sound , he waited to see what else would happen. The caress soon left him, a phantoms touch of fingertips still grazing his face. Powering up his optics to the barest of  light, he could barely make out Bumblebee’s face looking at him.

“Why does it hurt so much Optimus? To be this close is what I’ve always dreamed of, but a dream is what you want it to be. Waking up to reality is never easy, but I count my self to be lucky enough to be one of the many to stand by your side. Even if it means loving you from afar.”

Bumblebee muttered in a low voice to the sleeping mech. How he wished he had enough courage to say this to Prime when he was awake. But fear kept him from revealing his true sparks desire. Fear that he may be laughed at or worst, the nightmares that played in his processor  when his feeling were revealed and his loves face scorned his very being. It was a dilemma that froze his spark and numbed every system in his body. To be hated by the one he secretly cherished would be if Unicron himself had tear out his spark and devour it leaving him an empty shell.

“Does the pain ever become bearable?”

“Only when you let another to help ease your burden  does the pain fade in time.” Blue optics widen in shock, deep cobalt optics staring into his. Bumblebee tried to turn away, trying to getaway from the other mech but red arms encircled his waist bringing him closer yet.

“Why Bumblebee?” the question sounded like a purr to the smaller mech, from the vibration in Optimus’ chest plates.  Bumblebee didn’t know what to say, he never thought a chance like this would ever accrue and he was to scared to even say anything. One blue hand touched his face and he flinched from it afraid of it turning into a fist. The hand reached down to his chin pulling him to look into Optimus’ face…mask less face. Never in his dreams did he realize just how beautiful Optimus was. (2)

“Do you  really think so?”  Realizing he had spoken out loud Bumblebee could feel his faceplate heat up and tried to look away. His effort was stopped as Optimus still held his chin their optics never wavering.

“Please Bee.” Not once had he ever heard Optimus speak in such a voice, a mixture of pleading and longing. Bumblebee gently grasped that face in his hands afraid that it really was a dream and the chance might fade away. Bringing their faces closer he could actually feel Prime’s warm breath against his face.

“I love you.” was the simple response. He watched that face smile, optics shining even more brightly. Prime leaned forward slowly until his lips closed around his new found love. The kiss was simple and soft, no rush to ruin the moment. Slowly he traced trembling lips with his glossa seeking permission into the others mouth. Slowly those warm lips opened  allowing him entrance. His glossa swept the inside of Bumblebee’s mouth teasing the other glosssa into action. Optimus grinned as the smaller mech groaned and wrapped shaking arms around his neck, holding on for dear life. Pulling away slightly dentals nipped at the lips lightly before placing kisses along the rest of the heated face. Leaning forward he lowered them onto the floor careful of the storage units nearby and settled himself against the younger mech. He continued to trail kisses down  Bumblebee’s neck stopping to run his glossa over the sensitive wires, delving between the seams to tease the mec beneath him. His hands however never once stayed idle as they moved to join in the teasing. One hand reached around to the small mechs back scrapping lightly trying to get a response.

Bumblebee arched into the caress, still trying to figure out if  what was happening was real or not. He couldn’t stop the sob that escaped his mouth as the hands on his back seemed to find every sensitive area of his armor and apply a slight pressure.

“Bumblebee?” A low voice whispered in his audio sounding concerned. Crying out he buried his face in Optimus’ neck. Soothing hands rubbed his back, the voice once more whispering to him.

“I’m… so…rry. I…”

“Shhh. It’s alright. We have time, all the time we need. Besides, if Ratchet were to find out what we were doing…” Bumblebee choked back a laugh wiping away the tears.

“A wrench to the faceplate is not a comforting thought.” The two looked at each faces breaking out into wide grins.


“…I heard that. And just what pre tell is going on in there?”  The two froze at hearing the muffled voice of said medic. “ I swear Bumblebee, if I come in there and find out you were going through those storage units I’ll have your tailpipe in a sling!” Blue optics widen at the threat, the smaller of the two trying to hide behind his lover.  Optimus shook his head picking Bumblebee up in his arms and heading for the door.
“Optimus.” Looking down at his bundle, Optimus wondered how he could have missed someone as lovely as the yellow mech that he held in his arms.

“We can continue this in a more comfortable place after a proper recharge.” And with a few well placed kicks, the door was booted into the hallway, mechs scrambling to get out of the metal doors path.

“Would a warning be too much to ask Optimus?” Jazz looked at the fallen door noticing the dent. * Mental note, do not piss off Prime *

“Very well than. Bumblebee and I will be resting in my quarters. Do not disturb us unless it is of the utmost importance. Understood.” Everyone nodded as they watched their leader carry a  blushing Bee down the hallway and disappear.

“Well, I guess that actually worked.” Ratchet turned to the others smiling.

“The old closet trick never fails.” Sideswipe smirked leaning against his brother looking over at the broken door. “Though it usually doesn’t get knocked off the hinges like that on the shows.”

“Did anyone else noticed that Prime had his mask off?” Sunstreaker asked looking at everyone’s puzzled faces.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~   
Optimus looked down at the slumbering figure next to him. Trying not to disturb the figures rest, he pulled Bumblebee closer a real smile gracing his face.

“Sleep well my love for I’ll be with you even in your dreams.”


                                                           End