[Ratchet reaches out before checking the motion, remembering how Soundwave had shrugged away from him before. His claws curl in and he drops his arm instead, gesturing to the slab so Soundwave can sit.]

Having Bee here has been... difficult. [His voice is quiet, and he's running scans instead of looking at Soundwave as he speaks.] I am keenly aware that the situation isn't exactly the same, but--it gets easier. I think after long enough it even helps a little. And whatever else it is, having people back, it's better than the alternative.

[He looks more closely at the readings, and his lips thin.]

Let me start on that hand, first. Here. [He reaches out his own claw carefully, his gaze steady.]