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It was a beautiful place, filled with dappled sunlight, empty of parishioners so early in the day. Drift drew Roddy along, crossing the small circle of seating, to climb the short flight of steps to the dais where Drift would stand in an hour or so and dispense the blessings of Primus to the few who came to the morning devotions at the small temple.
Rodimus took it all in, the vaulted dome, radiant in the morning light, the effigies of the Knights, of the Circle, Dais Atlas, of Wing.
The family that had forged itself around Drift after he'd run from the ones he’d trusted with his life.
The lopsided, peaceful smile his friend wore in this place that he’d built for the God he loved.
He reached out, took Drift’s hand, gaze never leaving his face. Drift stilled, but didn’t pull away. Rodimus entwined their fingers.
Is this ok?
Drift laughed, a bright, light sound that lifted and echoed away as he interpreted the words signed through their touch.
‘Didn’t think you’d remember’.
Roddy smiled.
I'd never forget
He held Drift’s hand for a moment, before signing out his next words.
I love you.
Drift’s expression faltered, then hardened. He tried to pull away, but Rodimus grasped his wrist with his other hand.
‘I do. I always have’.
Drift searched the face of the man he'd been through hell and back for, eyes bright with pain.
‘Please Roddy...’
He tugged his hand again and Rodimus released him.
‘It doesn’t have to change anything. I know you’re with Ratchet’.
Drift backed away.
‘You used me, you and Prowl, you used my loyalty and trust. Your words are ash Rodimus’.
He swiped at his face, at the tears he found there.
‘I gave you everything. I bought you the ship. You were the reason we went out there. People died and it was for nothing, they died for nothing. You broke my heart. It was Ratchet who came and found me. It’s always been Ratchet. I was mistaken, I made a terrible mistake.’
He turned on his heel, took the steps down from the alter in a leap and was away.
Rodimus stood frozen for a moment, before curling in on himself.
Your words are ash
Everything he touched. Everything burned.
He dragged himself to his feet and left the temple.
There was nothing for him now but the cold blue stars.