[he's quiet for a moment. as much as he would like to assure her they'll work something out, it also feels like it would be cruelty to give her such false hope, even if she does need some hope. even optimus is struggling to see the bright side on this one, chief.]

It's something we can work on, [optimus settles on, surprised that he's able to feel even more disappointed with himself for the lacklustre answer.] many here have their own experiences with different dimensions, which gives us access to knowledge we could never have had back home.

[twitch, though... and any of the terrans that might come through the bridge in the future. what if nightshade returns, unaware of their future? what of ranger malto, alex and their children?]

...I will discuss this with Megatron. [they will have to tell twitch, this he knows. it wouldn't be right to keep from her, but hashtag isn't wrong about the harm it would do her. optimus wonders if maybe he should tell her. if his choices broke their family apart, then she should at least still know she can trust in megatron; optimus has already been the face of so much bad news for them.] Telling me does not mean things have to change before you're ready-- I will not say anything to Twitch.

[twitch should know, yes, but he can't discount the effect her knowing will have on hashtag.]