[Soundwave, meanwhile, is in a conflict. On one hand, their last meeting is still weighing in his mind and he's careful about being too affectionate to her. But on the other hand, he wants to go back to how things were, even if there is no chance at all with winning her love. If they could just return to that and remain friends, that'd be great.

Even now, his affections are still experimental. He would've gone for more kisses or a deeper kiss, but he abstains himself. Even ignoring his conflict, he knows doing anymore kisses will just distract Monika from cleaning the sand off her.

A small smile curls on his lips when Monika said she was doing the right thing. And she did.]

Even so, you searched and took care of Stampy when I- [...] -I left you both.

[He knows he isn't at fault for the disappearance, but it does make him realize that perhaps he should've been better.

Regardless, Stampy is safe. Before he leaves Monika to clean off sand in her hair, he gives her another quick peck to her cheek, and then finally let go of her to properly greet Stampy.]

You deserves my appreciation for that. And... I am proud of you, Monika. [With that, he turns to give Stampy some needed pets after his long absent. Looks like Stampy still remembers him.... that's cute.]

How's living with Stampy, if I may ask? [Tell him everything. He's curious.]