Each time was an excuse. He could admit that, although not out loud. Searching for Autobot refugees, the old crew...it was a distraction. Something to get his mind focused on, instead of possibly dealing with...this. What he'd been avoiding for so long.

And then taking off after he got his vehicle mode, to see the sights. Even then it was just so he could find the time to face this. To contribute on the sidelines until he could get into the frontlines.

To face Bulkhead again.

"Figured we should...since I've been missing in action back home. And whatever I did that I don't remember."