1. Guardians (A TFP Fanfiction Story)

The next week was a slow recovery for the medic, although it could have been slower if he didn't know what he was doing. It was another day before he could actually sit up on the berth, and another two before he could get up. After that, things went a lot smoother, though I could tell the strain was painful. He was getting frustrated that he couldn't do as much as usual, getting exhausted quicker because of his injury. The other Autobots and kids had to cope with a medic who was more grumpy than ever, at least towards them. Much to my surprise, he was exceptionally gentle to me, though he would sometimes complain about how annoying his recovery was.

Miko took notice of his newfound attention towards me, and loved to tease me about it to no end. Jack and Raf were quiet about it, much to my relief, but I would still get awkward or silly glances every now and then when I was with him. It was a little easier to ignore at first, but now both me and Ratchet were starting to get annoyed at how much Miko pursued, though only the latter gone on to her about it. Along with some of the other Autobots.

Today, I was sitting on the couch reading a book that Rafael had given me. It was rather intriguing, even though I was literally living a fantasy now. Miko, bouncy as ever, jumped onto the couch next to me, Raf and Jack following behind her.

"So, how's school going for ya?" she asked, swinging a bit of her bangs out of her eyes.

I looked up and grinned, glad she was talking about something other than Ratchet and I. "Pretty well, as far as the first days of school go."

"Even better since Ratchet actually picks you up, right?" she smirked, wiggling her eyebrows.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. This was one feeling I knew I wasn't enjoying. "Yeah, he surprised me."

"He surprised all of us!" said Raf, plopping down next to me. "I'm glad you're getting along with your guardian, too."

I gave the smaller boy a side hug, before a thought came to my mind. "So you're guardians.... what are they to you? Like, relationship wise?"

Oh my word, that sounded stupid.

The three kids looked at each other before getting lost in their thoughts. Raf piped up first, turning and beaming at me.

"Bumblebee is like a brother to me," he explained. "He's family!"

Miko nodded, looking lost in thought for once. "Yeah, family. I wouldn't say a brother.. but definitely family. And the best rock buddy ever!" she exclaimed, throwing up her hands.

I shuddered, thinking of the loud music she had been playing lately. It was rather... disturbing.

Jack scratched the back of his head, a nervous habit. "Well, we're partners. But.. family seems to suit us, too.."

The other two turned and gave him a look. He held up his hands. "Do not tell Arcee I said that." They shook their heads, holding back their laughter.

I listened to them all in awe and wonder. Family. I had to say, that sounded like them. But were me and Ratchet like that? Close as family? Or just as friends? I was happy with either one, but...

The other three must have read my thoughts. Miko squished me into a hug while Raf patted me on the back.

"Aw, don't worry about Ratch!" Miko said cheerfully, letting go. "He'll come around!"

"If he hasn't already," Raf added.

Jack shrugged. "I gotta say, he's closer to you than any other human."

"Out of four," I retorted, holding up that many fingers.

"Five, if you count Agent Fowler," Jack responded. "Still, I think you get my point."