Through Ash and Dust (ROTB)

Chapter 32

Saphira was feeling very happy at the moment. It was Christmas Eve, and she was excited. She had finally gotten over the flu officially, and she was able to finish the paintings that she wanted to gift the autobots. She had finished them a couple days ago, and she had them hidden away from the autobots in gift bags, and she hoped that they have not taken a peek of their gifts, even though she knew they would appreciate them anyway. She did know that Mirage has spoken about gifts for her too, but she wasn't sure what to expect. Which was good, because the autobots had to be creative like she was when it came to Christmas presents.

She did wish she could make gingerbread cookies and such, but she was the only one who would even be able to eat them. She knew Mirage spoke about finding a stove for the factory so that she could use it, but she was fine with the single, stove top that she had. It was enough to ensure that she would have a hot meal. Especially as it was very cold at the moment. Even though she was out of the window, Saphira had been staying within the autobots, or by the fireplace that Mirage and Bumblebee built, which she was grateful for. The cold weather made it hard for her to enjoy looking at the tree.

Despite the cold in the air, Saphira was excited for Christmas. She was sitting with bundles of blankets around her body while sipping a mug of hot chocolate. The autobots had gone on patrol, and Saphira decided to stay behind. She had Christmas songs playing quietly as well to keep her company, but also because it was already dark at this time. She didn't want a random person to show up because they heard music.

Saphira was glad that she was able to feel excited about Christmas for the first time in a long time. She had a family who she could genuinely say care about her. Sure, it took time for that bond to build up, and she was okay with that, but she was very happy that she could genuinely enjoy Christmas. She also couldn't wait to celebrate New Year's Eve with them. Especially as there were plenty of events that occur on New Year's Eve, and Saphira may get to watch them from the comfort of a freightliner cab.

Sipping some hot chocolate, Saphira heard familiar engines approaching the building. She smiled. She knew they would inform her if something would change. As Saphira has not once taken the ring off, she knew they would speak to her through the device if something changed. It actually would be remarkable if that were to happen, as none of them were expecting anything to happen. Especially in regards to Cybertron.

She looked towards the door to see Optimus driving through first, and she smiled at him while sipping some more hot chocolate. She watched him transform as Arcee, Bumblebee and Mirage drive in from behind, and they began to transform as well. "Sorry for taking a little longer than expected, Saphira. The whole city is busy." Saphira wasn't surprised, as people tend to act crazy when shopping for Christmas. "Even though we have been here for a few years, I don't think I will understand why humans act the way they do at this time of year."

"You aren't wrong, Optimus. I used to avoid the malls over the Christmas period, because I knew that it would all settle down in the new year, and I could buy something that I want at that time." Optimus walked over and sat down by the couch she was sitting on. "And when it comes to food, I would only go get some if I really needed it. Otherwise, I just stuck with what I had at the time, and wait until after Boxing Day."

"Told you that not all humans act that way, Optimus." Mirage walked over with a big grin on his face. "Sure, I will admit, I was kind of amused when I saw two, grown women fighting over something outside of a store. I think it was a toy for a child or something." Saphira chuckled as she could easily picture that. "But the fact Christmas seems to being out immaturity for some people, it is just ridiculous! But at least you aren't like that, Saphira. You already have your gifts ready for us tomorrow, and there is enough food for you too."

"I know. I guess I am glad that I can enjoy Christmas now the way I want to. And I don't need to buy dozens of everything, so that is probably why I feel that way. Besides..." Saphira turned her head to look up at Optimus with a smile. "Christmas isn't about the food or gifts anyway. And people sometimes make Christmas all about that, if I am honest."