Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

In this book the boys are 16, not 15. So is my OC Rachel. I hope y'all enjoy!

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    I readjusted my bookbag's strap as I walked down the busy streets of New York City. People bumped into me every other second and the pollution in the air gave me a nonstop headache. Sighing, I rub my forehead and carelessly J-Walk to get over to the big school that laid ahead of me.

    Being a Highschool student in NY isn't as bad as it sounds. It's just like any other school, though to me; it's a lot more complex. New Yorker's seem to lack manners, empathy, or any emotion other than anger, stress, and high self-worth.

    As I stepped on campus whispers erupted and fingers were pointed. It was a common thing among any school in any state when there was a new kid on campus. The rumors they come up with are rather amusing and nobody seems to be afraid to walk up and be blunt with me.

    "Rachel!" I glance over to see an acquaintance of mine waving me over. "Over here! Hurry!" I sigh and walk over, no point in being rude. Just because I live in New York now doesn't mean I gotta act like 'em.

"What's up Madlin?" My heels scuff the ground, kicking up a little dust.

    "I wanted to introduce you to my friends!" She chirped. I boredly glanced to her friends, all people that I most likely won't get along with. "This is Christian, Alex, Brittney, and Samantha!" She pointed to each one enthusiastically before giving me a wide grin. "They all really wanted to meet you!"

    I dipped my head in their direction. "Nice ta meet ch'yall. I'm Rachel." They all exchanged glances with each other making me mentally roll my eyes. "Was there somethin' y'all wanted to ask or did ya just feel like bein' friendly?"

"What's with your voice?" Samantha, I believe, asked.

"And why do you dress like that?" Alex, again I'm not sure, gestured to my attire.

    I held back a scowl, knowing it'd be a waste of energy to get upset over what they had said. I already knew New Yorkers were blunt. "I's called an accent. And ain't nothin' wrong with my clothes." I had on a nice, dressy top that was really flowy with cute designs on it. It was purple, black, and brown and had a country feel to it. I had on boot cut, blue jeans and some really... loved tan cowgirl boots on.

    The warning bell sounded and we all wordlessly dispersed, heading to our respective classes. My first class of the day was French, Madam C was a little off, but in a good way. I didn't take many notes or pay too close attention because A – it's too early for this kind of thing, and B – I already knew French.

    An hour and a half passed by and it was time for ELA (English Language Arts), or 10th grade Lit. as the school likes to call it. This was by far my favorite class, no matter what school I go to. Reading and writing have always been a passion of mine and I see no sign of me ever not loving it. While I definitely miss Mr. Jacobs, Miss. Stiklyn is a sweet enough woman. She was reading a book me and my old class already read so I got to pull out my own book and read while listening to some music. To say the least, the class period was pretty enjoyable.

    The two hours passed and I now had study hall. Which is basically a 30-minute free period to do whatever you want. It being so close to the end of the year, I had no homework I could be doing so instead I dropped my stuff off at my 3rd period class and roamed the halls.

    I passed by different halls for different academics and grades, sometimes venturing down the halls purely to walk down them. I had no set destination or desire to be anywhere. I already knew the school relatively well as I'm impressively good at adapting (according to my assigned school counselor). However, ten minutes into my directionless walk I noticed I had some admirers. They either sucked at stealth or weren't trying to be sneaky. I'm going with option two.

I stopped and turned to face my peers, "Can I help you?"

    They went wide eyed, clearly not expecting me to confront them. "Oh, uh well..." A small blonde desperately tried to find the right words to say as her friends squealed behind her. These kids were obviously freshmen. "We were uh- we were just wondering if it's true." She said.

"If what was true?"

"The- the rumor."

"There are a lot of rumors hun. Yer gonna have ta be more specific than that."

    Her friends whispers became more pronounced and quick as they seemed unable to take their eyes off me. "Oh, well- um.." She played with her hair and looked down at her shoes as if they were the most interesting thing ever. "Is it, uh, true that you're from Texas?"

    I cocked an eyebrow at that, Texas? Really? I laughed, finding the whole situation entirely amusing. "Sorry ta disappoint ch'ya, but I'm not from Texas." I placed a hand on my hip, "I'm a Georgia Peach." I winked down at her and her face flared up. "Born 'n raised."

"Oh! Oh, uh... I'm sorry!"

"'S fine, You didn't offend no one." The bell rung and I ruffled the kid's hair, "See ya around squirt."

    Chorus went by relatively fast and it was time for lunch. Again, despite popular belief, school food ain't that bad. Sure, there are some things that you just, you just can't. However, most of it tastes fine. Luckily, today is pizza day. I went through the line, got a peperoni pizza, the necessary fruit, and a chocolate milk. I sat over on a high chair at one of the square tables and ate. Occasionally an acquaintance would appear, have a brief chat with me, then disappear once more. It was pleasing, I read some books online, listened to music, and just got to lounge around for roughly 45-minutes before I had to head to my last class of the day.

    My last class was History. The teacher was super sweet and really chill just as long as you were respectful. She gushed over my manners whenever I called her 'mam' and always seemed to like my fashion sense whenever I put forth the effort to dress up. Her class was easy solely because all we did is take notes or have vocab quizzes. The class was over in two hours and I was on my way home.

    I admit, it is really weird being able to walk home and not have to wait on a bus. Mom and Dad, of course, were hell bent against letting me walk but ended up having to accept there was no other way. (The concept of subways being even more terrifying to them.) So, I walked home. My track home was a long one, but it was well appreciated. I have made many friends thanks to my long walks to and from home. The pizza delivery boy, Justin, is adorable and really sweet. Miss. Lyn, the youthful, and recently engaged, store owner was beautiful inside and out. Then Mindy, a girl I ran into on a late walk home, is really a sweet girl; she's just going through a rough patch in life.

"Rachel, shin'aina, is that you?"

    I stop mid step and grin, "Miss. Lyn!" I turn to the 25 year old store owner. Today she was wearing a red sun dress with white floral patterns on it. She had on cute tan sandals and had her straight black hair pinned back with a decretive hair pin that matched her dress. "You look beautiful! How'v ya been?"

    "I've been well. Daniel and I have been stressing over the wedding preparations and such but we know where our honey moon is going to be!" She was bubbling with excitement and drew her hands up to her heart. "We'll have to wait till spring rolls back around but he wants to take me back to Japan!!" She grinned and twirled, "We're going to see the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom!" She gives a dreamy sigh and looks towards the sky.

    "I'm glad to hear that!" I gush inwardly at the absolutely adorable puppy love look she got as she thought of her fiancé. "You have ta take pictures for me! I've always wanted to go see Cherry Blossoms in full bloom." I sigh dreamily and give her a playful glare. "You're a big meanie for not taking me with you." I cross my arms in a pout causing her to laugh.

    She draws me into a hug that I full heartedly return. "I promise to take bunches of pictures for you! I'll even buy you a souvenir!" She pulled away slightly and looked down at me with a warm smile. "Ok?"

I give a mocking thoughtful look before nodding, "Alright, I can make do with that."

    She laughed, "That's good to hear shin'aina." She pulled out of the hug and ruffled my curly hair. "I have to get back to work now. Stay out of trouble! I'll see you tomorrow."

    "See you later Miss. Lyn!" I waved and continued my walk back home. Being in a far better mood than before I pop my earbuds in and listen to some Country Music.

    I arrived home 20-minutes later, as usual my parents aren't home. Now that's something I'd never thought I'd think. We've only been living in New York for five months and things quickly changed. I was so used to coming home to my mom and older brother Aaron that not seeing them anymore made me feel alone. Aaron was back home home, with Cory going to college. They bought an apartment together before dad was offered the promotion that moved us here. Mom was upset that we lived in the city, as her family lived far away from the city; over in Rochester.

    My dad works at Caterpillar, a manufacturing company. I don't know what promotion he got but when given the option of where to move to it was obvious we were moving to New York. As my mom's side of the family lives here. At first, I hung out with my cousins, Aunt, Uncles, and Grandma and Grandpa all the time. Now, I only see them once every two weeks at most. My parents became too busy to drive me and the gas expense became too great.

    My mom was lucky enough to land a job at a hospital nearby while she finishes up Nursing school. She will graduate when I finish my junior year. (So next year.) My dad already graduated and got his Masters Degree in business two months ago. (Hence the promotion.) They both have relatively well paying jobs which is why we got an apartment close to the top. The apartments up top were bigger and despite it being only us three, we really needed the extra space. I got dibbs on the room with the fire escape, which took me a good two hours to convince my parents that it would be fine having a window near the fire escape.

    I brought my cat Khaleesi with me and dad brought his cat Mika with him. The apartment manager doesn't care so long as they don't cause any trouble. I sighed and tossed my bookbag into a corner, hanging my purse on my closet door handle. Khaleesi was sitting by the window and spared me a distracted meow as a greeting. "Hey baby." I flopped onto my bed face first, turning so I could look out the window.

    It was only 4 o'clock, the sun is still shining rather brightly. With a huff I get up and change; I grab my blue Nike shorts and a pink/black/white swim suit top. Slipping on my black and white flip flops I grab a towel, sunscreen, and a book before moving to the window. "Sorry baby, but you can't go outside." I move her onto my bed and quickly exit through the window, shutting it with an 'I love you' to my cat.

    I climb the rest of the way up the fire escape and begin the nerve wracking process of rooftop jumping. It wasn't the height I had a problem with, it was my fear of falling to my death. Pushing the dark thoughts aside I made it to an abandoned rooftop I found in my second week of being here. Setting up my stuff, I lay down and close my eyes, enjoying the warmth only the sun can offer.

~~~

    I was at the dinner table, mom sitting across from me and dad sitting to the right. "So, how has school been going? Everything transition smoothly? You keepin' your grades up?" I look to my dad and nod, swallowing the bite of chicken I had in my mouth.

    "Ya, 's been per'dy good. Though, people think I'm from Texas." Mom and dad laughed at that and shake their heads. "My grades are good, the teachers are pretty chill too." I shrug, "Not bad, better than OC." Mom grunts, as she never liked their school system.

    "Well, that's good to hear sweetie-poo." Dad smiled at me and the table went back into a peaceful silence. The rare requests of passing things is the only thing to break the silence.

    Once the meal was finished we exchanged 'I love you's, hugs, and kisses before my parents went to bed. I cleaned the dishes and turned off the lights before retiring to my own room. Khaleesi meowed, knowing it was bed time and hopped up on the bed. I hummed in tired acknowledgement of the meow and stripped my clothing on my way to bed. "Mnm, night Khaleesi." She meowed and I fell asleep, only having enough energy left to clumsily plug my phone in.

Chapter Text

 I stomped my way off campus, willing away the tears. I knew from the moment I woke up, today would be a bad day. I asked to stay home but as usual, I wasn't allowed to. I decided to wear the usual sweatpants and baggy shirt today, throwing my hair up into a messy bun.

    So, not only was I late to school because of a traffic jam, but I had a pop quiz in History about shit we haven't even learned yet that I know I failed. Everyone seemed determined to get on my nerves today with insensitive questions and rude remarks and to put the cherry on top I have to work extra hours tonight because Jackson decided to 'call in sick' today. My head was pounding and I wasn't looking forward to pretending to enjoy serving stuck up assholes.

    Trucking on like a true Collins I made my way to The Grey Dog, which is the café I work at. My presence was made known by the soft jingle of bells that hung on the door. "Rachel!" My manager, Ryan, waved me over frantically. "Come on and get changed! We're about to get the work rush and I'm short on waitresses." With a heavy sigh I jog back to the employee work room and get changed into the uniform. Black shoes, grey pants, a white button up, and hair pulled back at all times. I clipped my black nametag on my right breast pocket and walked out. "Table's 4, 6, 7, and 9." I nod and walk over to table 4.

    A young couple sat there, whispering shyly to each other as they waited to receive service. "Hello, I'm Rachel and I will be your waitress today. Is there anything I can start you off on or are y'all ready to order?" I made my voice as welcomingly professional as I could, making sure to hide my southern drawl. I just want to curl up into a ball and cry into Khaleesi's soft fur.

    "Oh. Um." The girl looked over to her boyfriend shyly, "Can I get some sweet tea? With a lemon on the rim?"

    I nod and jot her request down. "And you Sir?" I turn to the male who stared at his girlfriend lovingly.

    "Can I get half unsweet tea and half lemonade?" He asks without taking his eyes off the girl who blushed when she realized he was staring.

    "Of course, will that be all?" They both nod and I can't help but smile, their loving nature towards one another lifting my spirits ever so slightly. "I'll be right back with your orders then." I go back behind the counter and clip the order to the string going across the open window that opens up to the kitchen. Walking over to table 6 I see what looks like business partners in the middle of a heated discussion. "Uh, excuse me? Are y'all ready to order?"

    They cut their conversation off and the brunette in the tux closest to me orders, "Uh, yes. Black coffee for everyone." I nod and jot down the order, about to ask if that was all only to see they were already continuing their discussion. Assholes.

    I repeat the process of clipping the order to the string before going to the next table. There was a lone girl sitting there, she looked depressed as she stared out of the window. Her yellow jacket clashed against the soft red seats obnoxiously. "Hello mam, I'm Rachel and I will be yer waitress for today. Is there anything I can start you off on?"

She seemed to snap out of some daze at the sound of my voice. "Huh? Oh, iced coffee please."

I nod, "Will that be all for now or are you ready to order?"

She frowned, "I guess I'll get a chocolate muffin too."

    "Will that be all?" She nodded and I scribbled down the order. "I'll be right back with your order." I go, hang the order, and make my way to the last table I have to wait on. This table was full of officers who were joking around. "Officers?" They turn to me, amused smiles sill on their faces. "My names Rachel and I'll be your waitress for today." I mentally applaud for not slipping up like last time. "Is there anything I can start y'all off on?"

    "Two sodas, one sweet tea, and one coffee." The black-haired officer in the back corner ordered. I recited the order to make sure I got it right, "Yep, oh, and could I get a chocolate glazed doughnut?"

    I nod and write it down, "Will that be all?" They nodded and I left to hang up their order as well. I grab a silver tray and pile up the prepared drinks onto it. Glancing up at the orders I can tell these drinks are for table 4 and 7. "Hey! Did j'ya skip six or somethin'?" I call out to Terry, our cook.

    "Na! I'm getting to them now! Go do your job and let me do mine kid!" I laughed as he began to mumble about impatient teens and needy customers.

    I walk over to table 4 and gently set the tray down, taking off their drinks. "One sweet tea with a side of lemon." I place the drink in front of her and hand her a straw. "And one half unsweet tea and half lemonade." I place the drink in front of the boy and hand him his straw. "Is there anything else I can get you?"

"No, we're fine. Thank you."

    I nod and pick the tray back up walking over to table 7. "One iced coffee and chocolate chip muffin." I set down the drink and small white plate with a warm muffin on top before handing her, her straw. "Will that be all?" The girl offered me a tight smile and nodded. "Okay, holler if you need anything." I walk back to the counter to see steaming cups of hot coffee lined up. Glancing back at Terry I see he's in the middle of preparing the officers drinks and food. With a sigh I move the coffees onto the tray and walk over to table six. "Black coffee for everyone." I hand out the five cups of coffee to the business partners. "Will that be all?"

"Yes, check please."

~~~

    I sigh, why me? It was late at night and I had no choice but to use the subway. Cause I'm not dumb enough to wander the crime ridden streets at night. Unfortunately I had to use the tip I got from the cute couple today. I paid and passed through the twisty walk-through thingy. I strolled over to the waiting benches in long strides.

    I can't wait for today to be over. I'm so close, I can practically feel my cats soft fur and the cushioning of my big bed. The sound of a machine gun went off and all hell broke loose. You've got to be shitting me. I turned just in time to see some dude with face paint approach me and shove me to the ground, aiming a pistol at my head, "Stay down!"

I'm about to whip somebody's ass. Oh, I'm about to whip somebody's ass.

    The large group of seemingly identical men began placing bombs as a stereotypical looking 'bad ass' Japanese chick walks in the middle of the group, shouting orders. A girl was shoved down in front of me and the man aimed his semi-automatic in warning. "On the ground! Nobody move!"

    The Japanese girl began looking around before calling out. "We know you're out there! If you don't surrender, we start executing hostages!" The girl in front of me pulls out her phone, like a dumbass, which worried the old lady in front of her. Click. Oh my god, the phone wasn't even on silent. I quickly snatch her phone away to try and hide it but the sound alerted the girl leader. "You!" She points her gun at me, "Stand up!" Tossing the girls phone aside I stand, glaring at the woman.

    Oh, if you don't leave me alone. You're gonna have to send me home. Cause I'm about to whip somebody's ass.

"All aboard!" A voice from the tracks calls out as a train flies by. "Whooo-we!"

    With her distracted I quickly sock her in the face. "I've had a hell of a day without you bargin' in and makin' it worse!" The lights shut off as she recovers and she begins shooting at me. The sound of metal unsheathing has her shooting in that direction and seconds later something rammed into her and sent her flying. My eyes met with a pair of green eyes, lights of the train briefly illumination the figure.

    His eyes widened when he realized I saw what he was. All I could really make out was a green face with a red hat of some sort. I grinned, letting him know what he was didn't scare me or upset me in the slightest. Fortunately, that when the train's lights lit up my face. As soon as it went dark again I ducked under him and ran for the tarp covering, blindly latching onto unfinished plumbing poles I hike myself up and out of the subway.

    Once I made it outside I run a block or two before hiking up a fire escape and onto a rooftop. I sighed, happy to be out in the open air once more. I should call ma, she and dad are probably worried. I sat down on a railing casted in the shadows. Just as I was about to take out my phone I heard whoops and shouts of joy. The guy I saw down at the subway was with three others just like him.

"Nice elbow Donnie!"

"Ah, did you see that guys jaw connect with the concrete?"

"Ha! He'll be drinking out of a sippy cup for months!"

    "Oh, that's what I'm talkin' about brothers! Like shadows in the night, completely unseen." The familiar click of the girl's phone sounded, along with a flash. Everyone froze, three of the brothers seconds away from a high five, one in the middle of pacing, and I was swinging my legs so my right leg was out and my left leg was in the middle of going down.

"What was that?" They began whispering.

"It's a camera flash."

"We know it's a camera flash."

    "Who's behind the camera flash?" I slowly looked over a recognized the girl from the subway as the girl from the café.

"By my calculations, it's a girl."

"Are we gonna kill her?"

"What?!"

    "With kindness!" The guy whispers something else I can't quite catch when his brother speaks up.

"I got this."

    "Raph. No, no. No! Come on!" 'Raph' chooses not to listen and throws a chain towards the girl, wrapping her up in it before yanking her back up onto the rooftop.

    The girl screams and clutches her wrist. She sits up on her forearms and looks around. The red banded guy known as 'Raph' landing in front of her with a grunt. She whimpers and Raph demands, "Gimme the camera." In a deep voice. Well deeper than the one I heard him using a second ago.

    "Oh look! He's using his 'batman voice'." One of the brother's comments. Mocking his voice when they said 'batman voice'. I take this moment to look him over. He's super tall, green, has a shell, and is wearing a red bandana. I can only assume he's some type of humanoid turtle. He has wrappings all over his body, sunglasses resting on his head, a leather cover-up that kind of reminds me of caveman Spongebob for some reason, and duct tape and spray paint on the back of his shell. He had sai's clenched in both hands and was aggressively chewing on a toothpick. "Oh, she's so hot I can feel my shell tightening!"

    "We can hear you!" Raph barks back at his brother, turning his head to glare at him. The girl scrambles up without looking away from Raph's face. "If you don't give me the camera... I'm gonna-"

    "Enough!" Raph's brother flips off of the water silo behind me and lands on the ledge, his twin katanas out. "Back off Raph!"

Raph holds up his hands and walks away, "I only saw Batman once!"

    The tall, blue banded brother looks down at the girl. He had wrappings and shoulder pads on, along with some kind of bamboo chest plate thing. He too had a cover hanging from his hips, although, it was a different style than Raph's. "Mam? Hello, I apologize. My colleague here forgot to say please." Oooh, ouch. You went from brother to colleague. That must sting. "So, would you please hand over the camera?" He walked forward making her back up in fear.

    A slightly smaller, but still tall to me, turtle hopped down behind her. He had an orange mask on, wrappings and what looked like a jacket wrapped around his waist. The unique thing about him was that he had necklaces hanging from him, his sunglasses hanging from them. He also had some pearls wrapped around his wrist as some kind of bracelet. The girl bumped into him and quickly spun around, flipping out. "No, no! No, no! Woah! Chill, it's just a mask!" He points to his mask and reaches to take it off. "See? Don't freak out." He holds it up for her to see and offers a smile, "Right?"

    The girl falls down, passing out. "Oh, I think that went well." The fourth turtle commented sarcastically. I laughed, unable to help myself and the four quickly spun around, weapons aimed at me.

    I covered my mouth with one hand and held up my other. Sliding down and stepping into the light I try and shake off my laughter. "I'm, haha, I'm sorry." I move my hand away from my mouth and grin up at the brothers. "That was just funny to me." They seemed shocked and I scan over them only to lock eyes with a familiar emerald green.

"You." He growled.

"Me."

"Her?" The orange one asks confused, putting his mask back on.

    "Allow me ta introduce myself. I'm Rachel Collins, I saw y'all in tha subway. Unlike la fille I didn't follow y'all, I was 'ere first." I grinned and pointed to Raph, "I know him cause I saw 'em in tha subway."

"La fille?" The orange one asked.

"'S French." I tell him off handedly.

"Why didn't you tell us you were spotted!" Blue scolded.

    "I thought it was ma mind playin' tricks on meh Leo! She was there one minute and gone the next! What was I supposed ta do?!"

    'Leo' Stepped closer to Raph, in a 'showing dominance' kind of way. "You were supposed to tell me. I'm the leader of this group and I need to know if there's a possible risk of us getting exposed."

    Uncomfortable I scooted closer to the orange masked turtle and glance at the purple one, who was currently fretting over the passed-out chick. He grinned down at me and I grinned up at him, "So uh, what's yall's names?"

    His grin seemed to grow winder and he bounced excitedly. "Oh! I'm Michelangelo, the one in purple is my older bro Donatello, the there's Raphael in red, and Leonardo in blue." He shrugged, "You can just call me Mikey though."

"Well, 's nice ta meet ch'ya Mikey."

He grinned, "I like the accent! Raph's got one too. Where's it from?"

I grinned back, already liking Michelangelo. "'S called a southern drawl."

"Cool!"

    Raph and Leo seemed to be done arguing because when I turned back Leo was approaching me. He leaned down and pointed at me with the butt of his sword. "You cannot say a word about this to anyone." He warned in a low voice.

I shrugged his warning off, "Hey, I ain't no snitch Leo. You got nothin' ta fear."

Leo shot Mikey a look, "Did you tell her our names?" He gave a sheepish grin causing Leo to sigh.

    "Hey guys! I think she's waking up!" We all look over to Donatello, the brothers going over to check on la fille. "Ok, her blood pressure is stabilizing."

Raph growled in annoyance, "Why are we still here playing doctor?"

"She may have a head injury."

    "Correction: She's a hot chick who may have a head injury." Mikey butts in causing me to giggle. "Which makes it our civic duty to-"

    "Mam? Mam?" Donatello snaps his fingers in front of the girl's face. "Can you hear me? Do you know what city you're in? Do you know where you are?"

    Mikey leans down, "Have you seen that video where the cat plays Chopsticks with the chopsticks?" Leo shoves him away, making him spin and face me.

"I have!"

"Haha, ya!" We high five but Leo butts in.

"Can we focus here?"

"Guys, please. Come on, give her some air."

Finally awake the girl asks, "What are you?"

    Mikey and Leo exchange a smile before Leo faces the girl again, "Well miss, uh, we're ninja's." He does a mini bow before Raph butts in.

"We're mutants."

"We'll technically we're turtles."

    "Oh, and we're teenagers. But we can still have," Mikey waves his hand in front of him, "Adult conversations."

I snicker and nod, "Amen ta that." Raph grunts from beside me.

    "Wait, wait, wait. So..." She quickly stands up and looks at them wearily. "You're ninja, mutant, turtle, teenagers?" Oh my god, am I the only one annoyed with how breathless she sounds? I mean, I know you just woke up from passing out but damn la fille!

"Well when you put it like that it sounds ridiculous!"

    "See, she's lookin' at us like we're freaks!" Raph gestures. I watch as Mikey hops up beside me before sitting where I was when I first came here. Looking back, I make eye contact with the girl. I wave carelessly at her. "I bet that's why you took our picture wasn't it?" Her eyes snap back to Raph, "Show your friends." He got up and hopped down in front of her.

"Bro, that's a good thing! Maybe she has hot friends!"

"Lookin' for this?" Raph waves her phone teasingly in front of her.

"Don't break it." She shakes her head, "No, no, no, no, no. Please."

    Leo comes up from behind and snatches the phone, "How many times do I have to tell you? We don't break things, we fix them. Donnie already wiped the phone genius. Problem solved, moving on."

Raph shoved Leo's shoulder, "And who put you in charge?"

"You know who did."

    Mikey got up and walked beside where I was sitting, "Ooo, tension! It's been like, thirty whole minutes since you guys have had this argument."

    Donnie, was typing away at his gadgets before looking at a hologram screen. "Leonardo," He swiped the screen away to look at his brother. "If we wanna make it home before Master we have to hustle."

    Leo walked up to the girl and used the same scare tactic on her. "Do not say a word about this to anyone. If you do, we will find you. April O'Niel." Now I have a name to the face. Leo turned to Raph, "We're on the move, Raphael."

    Raph shook his head and hopped up beside me with a grunt. He twirled his sai's threateningly at April, sheathing them before growling in warning at her while he bit down on his toothpick.

    "Ya, we'll find you. O'Niel." Mikey pitched in, beginning to walk off. He quickly came back and offered her a smile, "I'm sorry, that came across super creepy ok? Ha, we will find you though!" He pointed and winked. Before walking away again, to join his brothers.

    Leo gave me a warning look and I nodded. Seeming satisfied he turned and they began their track home. (I assume.) All of them shouting to each other as April raced over and pulled out her phone, snapping another picture.

    I rolled my eyes and stood up leaving the rooftop. Once I was back on the ground I started jogging home. Only just remembering about the bags on my back as they lightly pushed on me as I ran. Pulling out my phone I see multiple missed calls from my parents and text messages. Oh boy.

Chapter Text

I yawn and give a big, lazy stretch. I was bundled up in some blankets, binge watching Transformers for the thousandth time. Empty containers of all sorts of junk food and candy were littered around me, an empty cup of chocolate milk sat next to my computer as the credits roll for Transformers: The Last Knight.

    I look to the window and saw how bright it was outside; I could feel the warmth seeping in through the window. It was a perfect day for sun bathing. I hum happily and give my sleeping cat a kiss on the head before getting ready in my usual shorts and swim top outfit. I gather my things in my gym bag and move to the window. "Love you baby, see you later." I call softly, not wanting to wake Khaleesi up but not wanting to leave without and 'I love you'.

    I jump across rooftops, the task becoming easier the more I do it. I head to the rooftop of the abandoned building I claimed as my own. It was on the corner of 4th avenue and 11th street, rather far from the apartment but still close enough to civilization.

    I set my bag down and pull out the old, warn blue blanket. Laying it out flat I slide my flip flops off and lay stomach down on the roof. I slid my sunglasses on and took a book out of the bag. I sighed in content, already feeling the warmth of the sun seeping into my skin. I was out here for hours, letting my parents know what I was doing and that I wouldn't be home till late tonight. The warm sun making me sleepy, I pull out sunscreen and lightly apply it before laying down and closing my eyes.

    "Hahaha!" The laughter of a little girl could be heard. It seemed to go well with the serene setting of the lush, green landscape. A little girl with sun kissed skin came bounding out of the woods, a grin of happiness on her face. "Hahaha! You can't catch me!" She ran into the clearing, her white and purple floral skirt flowing in the wind.

    "I'm gonna get ch'ya! I'm gonna get ch'ya!" A deep voice teased from the forest. Seconds later a large man appeared, he easily towered over the young girl. "Ahh! There you are!" The muscular man dove forward, his short brown hair ruffling slightly at the force. The girl squealed and tried to evade the man but he was too quick. "Ah! Omnomnomnomnom!!" The man made eating noises as he rubbed his scratchy beard on the girl's neck.

    "Ahhhh!!! Hahahahaha!!!! Daddy! Daddy sto-aahhh hahahap!!" The girl withered in her father's grip, desperately trying to escape. "I – I – I can't... breahehehehethe!!" She gasped for air only to exhale it in fits of laughter.

    The man pulled away, smiling lovingly down at the child as she regained her breath; lightly giggling. "You little trouble maker you. Next time I won't let you off so easy!" The girl giggled and nodded. "Come on!" The man groaned as the picked the child up. "Oh! You're getting heavy!" The man started walking towards the woods again, "I should stop giving you so much cookies."

    "No!!" Whined the girl. She latched her arms around her father's neck and gave him a sad puppy look. "Pwease continue to give me cookies?" She blinked her eyes rapidly for effect.

    The father laughed, walking down the dirt path towards their home. "Oh, alright. You can still have cookies." The girl cheered and turned toward the small wooden house as it came into view. "Babe! We're back!"

    A woman stepped out of the house, two small boys following her. "Hello sweetheart." The two shared a kiss causing their daughter to make a face. The mother laughed, giving her a kiss too. "Hey sweetie, did ya have fun?"

    The girl nodded, "Mmhm! Can I play with Aaron and Cory now?" She looked over to her two older brothers excitedly.

    "Of course you can sweetie." The father let her down and she raced over to her brothers, giving them each a hug. The oldest one returned the hug; his long blond hair getting in his face as he bent down to do so. The middle child, however, didn't return the hug. He just looked to the side, swiping his dark brown, shaggy hair out of his face. The sister wasn't upset or discouraged though, she was accustomed to her brother's ways and knew he still loved her by acknowledging the little things he did for her. "Aaron." The mother scolded lightly. "Give your sister a hug." He huffed, clearly upset that his mother was making him do this, but followed directions none the less. The ear-splitting grin his sister gave him making it worth it.

    The trio began to head to their backyard, talking about what game they should play. The six year old girl wanted to play on the rope swing, the eight year old boy wanted to go back inside and play video games, while the eleven year old boy decided that they'd play hide and seek. "Love you momma bear! Love you daddy!" The girl called over to her parents before disappearing behind the house.

    A blaring noise woke me up, I jolted awake and looked around for the noise. I looked and saw my phone glitching out, stopping as soon as I touched it. "Bam! You've been hacked!" I squeaked in surprise but quickly recovered; clearing my throat. "By Donatello, remember me? Turtle? Four eyes? But enough about me! We told you we'd find you." An address popped up on my phone screen. 4th Ave. & 12th St. COME ALONE. "Meet us here, and come alone. Or- or else we're – uh, you shall be punished!... and stuff?" The phone glitched for a few more seconds before the address went away and my phone went back to normal.

    I giggled, "'Punished and stuff'?" I shake my head in an amused manner and think back to the address. 4th Ave. & 12th St. "Isn't that...?" I look to my right, there are three more rooftops on this block before it opens to a street and turns into 12th street. "Huh." I check the time, 5:47. I still have about an hour and twenty minutes till the sun goes down. Still feeling rather tired I set a timer and lay back down, this time on my stomach, before drifting off again.

~~~

    "Ring a ding ding on your telephone! Get off yer butt and get that phone!" The phrase repeated itself a couple of times before I gathered up enough will power to turn it off. "Stupid alarm." I mumble and groggily sit up. "Stupid people." I bend down, my but in the air, I stretch my arms out forward (like a cat) then lean my hips forward bending back. "Stupid everything really. Why do I 'ave ta get up?"

    I put on a shirt and messily repack everything before tossing it in a closed-up' air vent. Heaving a heavy sigh I climb down the fire escape and walk over to 12th street, climbing up another fire escape. Once on the roof I give a big yawn and stretch my arms up. "Uh, hello?" I clear my throat trying to get rid of the roughness that sleep left behind. "I know 'm early but I was in tha neighborhood so..." I shrugged, "I'm alone 'n all. Like ya asked."

A thud came from behind me and I spun around to face Mikey. "Okay, are you Rachel Collins?"

"Uh," I furrowed my brows. "'M pretty sure."

    A thud came from the left and I watch Donnie quickly approach, "Initiating retinol scan. Scanning, scanning, scanning, scan complete. It's her guys! It's her!"

    I took a step back due to the bright light in my eyes only to be grabbed around the neck and led in a different direction. "Of course it's her Donnie!" I looked up at Leo, "Heeey! Really glad you could make it. There's someone important we'd like you to meet." He turned me so I was facing him. "But first." A red cloth was placed over my head.

    "Oi, what's up with the cloth?" I placed my hands on my hips, deciding to leave it on sense I could still see through it well enough to get around.

    "Ya, we still have to wait for Anglecakes! And she is early. Let's just hang!" The cloth was pulled off, a smiling Mikey handing it back to Raph. "There's my gummybear!"

"Gummybears? Where?" I look around getting amused looks from everyone.

"You silly! It's your nickname girl. Cause you're sweet, like a gummybear."

    I laughed, "Aw, thanks Mikey. I'll need ta come up with a nickname for you too." He grinned, apparently liking the idea. For some reason though, he began sniffing the air and leaned in a little, "Uhh..."

    "What's that smell?" He leaned back and gave me a cute, confused face. "I've never smelled that before. Is it perfume?"

Donnie sniffs a little too, "It's titanium dioxide and zinc oxide Mikey."

"Uhh."

"Sunscreen." I supply.

"Oh!!" Mikey grins, happy to understand. "Why're you wearin' sunscreen this late at night?"

    I scratched the back of my head, "Well..." I ruffled my hair, making it even more messy. "I was sunbathin' for most of tha day. I do it sometimes when I get homesick." I shrug, "I fell asleep. Just a couple-a rooftops away actually." I supplied, unaware that the turtles already knew. (They saw me asleep when they were on their way here.)

    Mikey nodded, "Oh that's cool I didn't know that!" He scratched his head, "But if you're homesick then why don't you just go home?"

    I laughed, "Well, I know home is where tha heart is but..." I frowned, "After livin' somewhere yer whole life, 's hard to jus' not think of it as home."

"Oh," Mikey frowned. "Where are you from?"

    I smiled in memory, "Georgia." I grinned, "It was always really hot over there, I was sunburnt aaallll tha time." I laughed, "One time, kind of like today, I was really tired but wanted ta go outside. I ended up fallin' asleep on tha roof and nearly fell off!" They joined me in my laughter. "When I did wake up, half of ma body was hangin' off the roof and I didn' wanna move cause I was sunburnt so bad." I shook my head, "Aaron loved to 'accidentally' slap meh on tha back when that were ta happen."

"Who's Aaron?" Donnie asked, stepping closer, fixing his glasses.

    "'E's my brother." I smiled proudly and puffed out my chest. "'Em an' Cory. Tha best brothers a gal could ask for. Cory's a state champ in wrestling an' Aaron's computer smart and really strong." I saw the teasing smiles and raised eyebrows I got from the turtles and blushed. "Uh, well... I mean. They're jus' pretty great guys is all." Their smirks just got bigger at my words. I puffed my cheeks and crossed my arms, looking away. "Whatevea."

    Mikey laughed and threw his arms around my shoulders, "Aww, hahaha, it's nothing to be ashamed of! I think it's adorable you look up to your brothers so much! I know I love mine!" Mikey grinned, not noticing how his brothers stood taller and prouder at his words.

    "Well, how long have you lived in New York Miss. Rachel?" Leo asked, deciding it was alright to pitch in.

"Jus' call me Rachel Leo, no need for formalities between friends. And five months so far."

"Well, welcome to New York." Donnie offered.

    "Thanks, tha's one of the few warm welcomes 've gotten since movin' 'ere." Donnie was just about to say something when all of a sudden, they all hid. A metal creek came from the stairs and I turned to see April climbing up. She looked at me with surprise, "Wazz up?" I wave.

    She gasped in surprise, "You're that girl!" I raised an eyebrow, "From the subway and rooftop! On Friday! You saw them too!"

"Saw who?" I ask, deciding to fuck with her.

"The mutant turtles!"

"The what now?"

"I know you were there, I saw you!"

I give her a falsely concerned look, "Are you ok mam? I think you should sit down."

    Mikey laughed and landed behind her. She gasped and turned around to face the tall mutant. "Okay, are you April O'Niel?" The turtles did exactly what they did to me, to her. The only difference being a purple cloth covered her face.

    Raph grinned, obviously enjoying her dismay before his eyes snapped to me. "Aw, do I have to?" His grin only seemed to widen. He held up the red bag and started walking my way. I threw my head back, letting out a groan, "Lame." Once my head fell back forward all I saw was a brown plastron then my vision was blurred with red. "You're a big meanie. You know that right?"

~~~

    After the interesting ride, to what I can only assume be their home, I was set back down on my own two feet. "Ahh, ya! Welcome to my crib ladies." I could make out Mikey holding his hands out.

    "Where are we?" April asks, sounding breathless. Why? I have no clue, she was carried the whole way here.

"Ya, it's our fortress of solitude!"

"Our Hogwarts!"

"Our Xavier Academy!"

"Our next generation, state of the art: Wonder Dome!!" I laugh and clap.

April, however, sniffs and makes a disgusted noise. "Ugh, are we in the sewers?" Rude.

"Uh, n-no?"

"Well, technically yes."

"Ya, ya. It's the sewer."

    The cloths were removed from our heads and I greedily took everything in. I look around the place with a wide grin. I turn to see Raph staring down at me intently, so I offer him a small smile. "This place looks cool as fuck man." I tell them honestly, receiving appreciative smiles.

"You, brought us here April." I turn my attention to the giant mutant rat.

"Splinter?" She whispered.

"How'd she know his name?"

"Oh, did you tell her his name?"

"Maybe she's a clairvoyant."

    "Maybe she's a jedi!" I quietly giggle at their accusations. At least they have a good taste in books/movies.

    "Come closer." Splinter watches as April takes hesitant steps towards him. I rub my arm, feeling a little out of place, more so than I usually do. "It's been a long time." He seems to examine her and gives a thoughtful hum. "You always did have your father's eyes."

    I stay put, watching the interaction happen. The turtles begin to move forward as well, and when Raph notices me not moving he nudges me with is elbow. I look up at him with uncertainty and he just gives me an encouraging nod; gesturing with his head to walk closer too.

"I don't understand."

    My gaze returns to April and Splinter. I slowly take a couple of steps forward, sticking close to Raph. "Don't be afraid. All will be made clear." He makes a general gesture and gives her a comforting smile.

"This is crazy."

    Splinter hummed, "Listen closely April." He had her sit down and the turtles followed suite. I was just standing there awkwardly but Mikey grabbed my wrist and yanked me down into his lap. He snuggled closer to me and rested his chin on my head. My face heated up in embarrassment and the brothers lightly glared at him before turning back to face Splinter. Splinter stroked his beard/mustache and began his story, "I don't remember a time, before living in that laboratory. That fateful night started like any other."

    Mikey cheered lightly, obviously looking forward to hearing Splinter's story. "Sacks gave us our injections, your father made sure out vital signs were strong, and you, as always, provided us with a special treat. After the brothers went to sleep, I heard loud voices." He paused and closed his eyes, trying to remember the details. "There was the smell of smoke; alarms sounded. Your father had discovered the truth behind the man that he was working for. He set fire to the lab; his last breath was taken trying to destroy Shredder's plan. I was terrified!" He smiled, "But then you appeared, and ushered us to safety. I never had a voice then; but I thank you now April." He gave her an appreciative nod.

    "We wondered the sewers until I found this place. It was then, that the mutagen that was injected into our blood began to change us in miraculous ways. I saw how your father loved you, and I knew that I had to show that same love to the turtles. I became their father, and they became my sons. Like all children they were drawn to the distractions of popular culture. And I knew that one day they would want to explore the world above."

    "They would be ridiculed. They would need to learn how to protect themselves both mentally and physically." He paused for dramatic effect, "And then, I found a way. First, I would teach myself the ancient art of ninjutsu. The brothers followed my lead, accelerating at a wonderous rate! Their gift was also their passion. They lived, breathed, and dreamed all things martial arts. Then, they were ready. Everything they are, and everything that they've become, was made possible by the bravery that you displayed on that fateful night."

    The turtles stood, Mikey taking me with him. I stepped behind Mikey and wondered back over to Raph. "I was just a little girl."

"And you gave us freedom. Where others would have kept us in cages."

    "Wait a minute dad." Leo kneels down. "All these years you've told us that we were rescued from the fire by a great guardian spirit. A hogosha."

"That's right. This," He gestures to April, "Is the hogosha."

"What?"

    Yep, now I really feel out of place. April, some dramatic girl with breathing problems, is supposed to be a great guardian spirit? The great guardian spirt that saved the turtles no less? Why did they even bring me here? A spark of amusement distracted me from my dark thoughts as I watched Donnie scan her with his goggles. The thoughts came crashing back down on me though because when Leo bowed to April, Mikey and Donnie followed.

    I rubbed my arm again, looking up at Raph when he didn't bow. He just stared at her before looking away and down at me. I give him a tight smile and looked back to April. "Why did you bring me here?" I'd like to know why I'm here too, please.

"To find out who you told of our existence."

"Nobody that believed me. Except for Eric Sacks."

    Splinter gasped and got up, "Sacks. Just as I feared. Sacks is not a friend. His soul has been poisoned by the influence of a dark master. The Shredder." He looked away from April, "Shredder practically raised Sacks, in Japan. He's like a father to him. Sacks will do anything for his master."

    "Wait. Wait. Sacks and Shredder?" Raphael walked up to Splinter, "So why aren't we out there huntin' 'em down?!"

    "Because Raphael! The Shredder is a skilled warrior whose cruelty is ever-reaching." Oh gosh that sounds uber-bad. "And you are just teenagers." That's a good point. "The mutagen in your blood is of great value to them. Now that Sacks has confirmation that you are alive, I fear that they will bring the fight to us."

    Out of the corner of my eye I saw April shift and pull a card out of her pocket. Confused I was about to ask her about it when Splinter turned to me. "And you, Rachel Collins." My eyes snapped to his, shocked at being addressed. My eyes flickered between the brothers frantically before settling back on Splinter. "Did you tell anyone of our existence?"

    I opened my mouth to answer but no sound came out. Embarrassed I cleared my throat and tried again. "Um, n-no sir." I shifted, hunching in a little more on myself. "I didn't tell no-one. Like I told yer-um- your sons." I mentally cringed at my voice, all of a sudden embarrassed by my southern drawl. "I'm not a snitch."

    Splinter gazed at me with knowing eyes and hummed as he stroked his beard. "You have a kind heart and trusting eyes." He walked up and grabbed my hand that was picking at the hem of my shirt. "Thank you for looking at my sons with that same gaze and not trying to sell them out." He patted my hand gently. "I hope to see more of you."

    I felt myself blush and ground my lips between my teeth in nervousness. "Uhm, thank ya-um-you sir." This time I did outwardly cringe at the slip up. "I hope to see more of you as well." I offered a nervous grin earning an amused one in return.

    All of a sudden alarms started blaring. "Perimeter infringe breached! We have incoming!" The brothers took off toward the wall of T.V's; Splinter running towards the weapons rack in the next room.

    I march over to April and snatch the card out of her hands. "What the hell is this?!" I saw the big 'S' symbol and the word 'SACKS' carved out in the card and glared at her. "You led them here?!"

Tears welled in Aprils eyes, "I didn't know!"

"We got two breaches! Fan room and weapons wall!"

    After that everything happened so fast. Leo was barking orders, the brothers were running every which way then Splinter was yelling at them to duck for cover. An explosion rocked the place. I was thrown back and my ears were ringing. I looked around the dust filled room as the brothers recovered and began fighting off the enemies. My heart was pounding in my chest and for a startling second I thought I couldn't breathe. I was shocked and scared; my mind desperately trying to keep up with what was going on. Then, like a beacon in the night Michelangelo appeared and lifted me up. "Rachel, April, come with me!" He hefted April to her feet and began to guide us away from the fight. "I got a safe place for you guys to hide! And if you get thirsty, I got a secret stash of Orange Crush behind the fridge. Don't tell Raph!"

    I let out a startled laugh as he guided us to a wall of crates that was next to what I assumed was the kitchen. After making sure we were okay he ran off to keep fighting. Both April and I crouched down and peered over the crates to watch who I can only assume to be The Shredder enter thru the gaping hole in the wall.

    I quickly crouched back down and brought me knees to my chest. Taking gasping breaths I put my hands over my head and try to calm down before I hyperventilate. I listened as the Shredder and Splinter fought when a rumble vibrated the lair. I silently prayed that the boys were okay and squeezed my eyes shut. 'Come on Rachel, momma didn't raise no bitch. I know this is crazy. Like completely insane but you need to get it together. Survive first. Then you can have a mental breakdown.' I continued to hype myself up before deciding to just rip this shit off like a band-aid.

    Snapping my eyes open I don't allow myself to think as I surge to my feet and begin to pay attention to what was going on. Splinter and Shredder were still locked in an intense fight. The brothers calling out to their father to hold on. I watched as Leo became overpowered, Donnie desperately trying to make his way to him while Mikey was on the other side of their lair doing his best to hold his own. It appeared that Shredder was starting to get the upper hand when April hissed my name. Looking to her she gestured to one of Raph's weapons that was lodged in the crate next to me. "Are you insane?!" I hissed. I knew she either wanted me to grab it and do... I don't know, something or she was wanting me to give it to her so she could do something.

    "Grab it!" She made a grabbing motion. "I have an idea!" With a self-suffering groan I yanked it out of it's spot and handed it to O'Neil. If she wanted to get herself killed then so be it. My self-preservation instincts were still intact and currently my number one priority was to survive and see my family again.

    I watched as she quickly snuck up behind the walking talking knife and stabbed the weapon into his back. He shouted and spun to face her with a growl. "You stupid little girl!" She slowly backed up – which, honestly, hurry the fuck up and get out of there! – when Splinter cried out to her.

    "April!" Wrapping his tail around her he threw her to the side and out of harms way. I watched long enough to see April get behind cover and for Splinter to be tossed aside before I dropped back down and curled up again; my whole body shaking.

"Sensei!"

    "No my sons! Stay back!" I heard grates closing and the brothers calling out for their father. Clamping my hands over my ears I felt tears trickle down my eyes as I listened to the heart wrenching screams of sons and the pained cries of their father. The only thought racing through my mind being of my own dad and two older brothers. I thought of my moms warm smile, my dads bear hugs, and my brothers teasing grins. I thought of how Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo must also have a defining aspect that they hold dear about each other and their father.

    I silently wept for them as I heard their weapons clang to the ground in a last-ditch effort to save their fathers life. Listened as they were betrayed and corralled out of their home like animals. "Where's the fourth?"

"He's dead." I slapped a hand over my mouth and choked back a sob.

"Destroy this place."

    They quickly left and the lair was rocked with several more small explosions. Luckily, this time I wasn't throw by the blast, but I began to cough heavily at the debris in the air. Shakily standing up I watch April rush out of the lair. Not bothering to waste time on worrying about what she was doing I scanned the area and saw Splinter beneath a pile of rocks. Gasping I rush over and began to pull and push rocks off of him. April soon came back and began to help, even if it wasn't by much, when I heard a noise behind me.

    I turned and saw a shocked Raph staring down at us. He stared for a minute before snapping out of his trance and rushing over to help. He tossed the last two rocks aside that I couldn't lift and pulled Splinter into a gentle embrace. "Let's get him to the needle room." Not knowing where that is I simply followed Raph as he rushed into one of the wrecked rooms. He wiped away the debris off the wooden slab in the middle of the room and directed us to the first aid kit.

    April quickly got it and I snatched it out of her hands, cracking it open I began to shift through the supplies, glancing frantically at a whimpering Splinter. 'Come on momma. Don't fail me now. I helped you study for your N-Clex, surely I remembered something!'

"Raphael?"

"I'm here."

    "You must save your brothers." He begged. I blinked away tears as I pulled out some Hydrogen Peroxide, Rubbing Alcohol, and bandages. "Stop Shredder."

    "Sensei." A weak alarm sounded from the wrecked wall of monitors. April quickly rushed over to see what it was. Raph wanted to check too but clearly didn't want to leave his dad.

    "Go." His eyes snapped to lock with mine. "My mom's a nurse. I can patch 'em up. Go see what's wrong." He stared at me for a second longer before nodding and rushing to April. I turn back to Splinter and offer him a kind smile, "This is going to sting a little bit." He gave a weak laugh.

"It's some kind of tracker!"

"It's Donatello."

"Go." Splinter whispered. I looked down at him with a concerned frown.

A shadow fell over me and I looked up at a determined Raph. "Let's go save my brothers." 

Chapter Text

    I watched Raph run off to grab what he needed when April spoke up. "We need a ride." I gave her a look and she gave me a stubborn one back. "And I know just who to call." She ran off to arrange the supposed ride and I refocused on Splinter.

"Go." He whispered again, weakly trying to push me away.

    I shushed him gently. "We can't go anywhere till we get that ride." I carefully clean his wounds with some cotton balls, delicately rubbing Neosporin on them afterwards. "While April figures that out I'm gonna stay right here and patch you up, yeah?" He humms as I wrap his left hand and wrist tightly with gauze to insure they stay in place and heal properly.

    Heavy footsteps approach me. "How is he?" Raph walks around me to crouch next to his father, grabbing hold of his good hand.

    "Bad." I tell him honestly. "He's lost a lot of blood and has a lot of wounds." I move down to tend to his legs, "You're gonna need to lift 'em up so I can wrap 'is chest. He has several cracked ribs. Some probably even broken."

Raph nodded and gazed down at Splinter, "Where'd April go?"

    "She said she was gonna find us a ride." It was silent as I secured Splinters leg to a splint. He whined softly and I shushed him gently again; taping it off and petting his head. "This next part is gonna sting a little more than everything else okay?" My voice was soft as I tried to keep him calm. "But Raphael here is gonna help ya through it okay?" Raph nodded and moved into position. "Just breath and listen to my voice." I gave Raph a look and he nodded, lifting Splinter up. He instantly shouted in pain. I was already on him, wrapping up his ribs the best I could. "Shhh, shhh, shhh. I know but it's gonna be over soon. Remember, listen to my voice." Adjusting the bandages slightly I began to talk. "Have you ever seen Transformers?" Raph gave me a weird look but I ignored it a kept talking. "It's one of my favorite movie franchises. I just binged watched it for like, the thousandth time." I rolled my eyes at myself and tightened up the bandages a little more. "It's about this race of autonomous robotic organisms from the planet Cybertron. Their world was really corrupt so there was this big uprising to fix it that ended up turning into a full blow out war between two factions. The Autobots and the Decepticons." I was nearing the end of the dressing and could see that Splinter was relaxing and focusing on my voice. "Well, their war was so huge an' brutal that it destroyed their world. Their last hope of saving their race and planet was shot off into the stars and landed here on earth. So, naturally, they followed. But by doing so they brought their war to our world and things only get more interesting from there." I smiled as I taped off the wrapping, Raph gently setting Splinter back down. "I'd tell you more but I don't want to spoil it." Running my hand across his forehead I gave him another soft smile as he looked to me. "You're just gonna have ta heal up and watch it for yourself."

Splinter laugh softly and grabbed my hand, "I suppose I will." He rasped out.

"Guys!" April rushed in, "Vernon is on his way."

"Who?"

"Our ride."

    Raph nodded and turned back to Splinter. "Go, Raphael. You've done all that you can for me. Save your brothers."

Nodding he stood and popped his neck, "Lets do this."

    We ran out of the lair following Raph to the proper manhole. "Rachel and I will head up and meet Vernon. You sneak into the back of the van." Raph grunted with a nod and helped move the manhole cover aside. "Come on." She climbed up and I thanked Raph as he moved the cover back in place. I followed Aprils quick pace over to where 'Vernon' was leaning against his car messing with a fedora. "What's with the hat?" April walked around and hopped in the van.

    "What is with the-" Laughing nervously he tossed it back in the car. "I don't know it's just a buddy of mines. It's just a goof."

"Goof?" I ask, quirking a brow.

He turned to me startled, "Woah, who are you?"

    "That's Rachel, come on Vern, we don't have time! Eric Sacks is working with the head of the foot clan. They just kidnapped the vigilante turtles to take them to the Sack's Estate." She began hitting the dashboard, "We need to go, come on Vern! Rachel get in!"

    I looked at Vernon and gestured to the car, shaking his head he held up a finger at me and turned to April. "Right, right, right. The turtles. I forgot." I crossed my arms and raised both of my eyebrows and he hopped into the car. "This is getting embarrassing. O'Neil, we're both consenting adults. We're both very good looking." I snorted and he glanced at me. "You're better, probably. That's up for debate." He waved his hands, "But the point is, we don't need to make up excuses to hang out with eachother! I mean, you even got a friend to go along with this it's just-"

"What?!"

I covered my mouth with my hand to hide my grin.

"You want to spend more time with me. I get it! I would too."

"Oh my god." I whispered

"We need to get to the Sack's Estate right now Vern! Let Rachel in, come on!"

"That's what I'm talking about, O'Neil! The Sack's Estate with the vigilante-"

Quick as a light Raph appeared between them and banged a fist on the dashboard, "Drive!"

    It was silent as Vernon gaped at Raphael. Raph was panting and glaring right back at Vernon. "You- You're a talking turtle." A bark of laughter escaped me and I was quick to slap both my hands over my mouth as I shook with laughter.

    Nodding Raph looked away. "Yeah. Yeah, I'm a talking turtle. And you're a human nerd. Now that we got that out of the way, hit it!" Growling at him he slowly backed up causing me to snicker more. The back doors flew open and Raph motioned for me to hurry up.

    Quickly running over I grab onto his hand and let him lift me up into the van. He closed the doors behind us and I made my way to sit behind the center console grinning up at a stammering Vernon. "I- I'm sorry. How did you get in- How did he get in the-?"

    Giggling I wave at the steering wheel. "Best not to think bout it Vern." I grin, dragging out his name. "You better start drivin' before Smiles over here makes ya." He gives me a horrified look as I beam up at him. Shaking his head he quickly starts the car and pulls out of the alley way. Letting out a surprised grunt I fall back at the sudden movement only to fall into Raphael's chest. "Oh! Sorry."

    He grunts, placing both hands on my shoulders and standing me back up properly. "Don't worry bout it." He takes his place behind me as a silent way of helping me have a firm standing in the vehicle.

"Thanks." I whisper.

    He grunts again and looks froward, focusing on the road. Vernon begins to ramble about his very limited self-defense classes before saying some shit about yoga and pulling a hamstring when April points out the gate. "So whats the plan?"

"Ram the gate."

    "Ram the gate?!" Vern looks to Raph through the rearview like he's crazy. "This is Channel 6 property I can't just-"

    "I said ram the gate!" He slams his fists on their seats, jostling me a bit as he leans over to snarl at Vernon.

    "Alright, everybody strap in!" He speeds up and busts through the gate throwing me and Raph back. Raph wraps his arms around me to protect me for jostling around and potentially getting crushed by him when people start shooting at us. Vernon busts through something else before reversing only to bail and duck down for cover.

    Growling, Raph sets me aside and busts through the side of the van. I duck behind part of the wall and peer through the hole; gaping as Raph demolishes the enemies. Rolling his shoulder he opens the door for Vernon. "Follow me!" I hop out of the hole and rush after him while Vern and April scramble to get out of the van and catch up. Raph busts through doors, not caring if me or the others are keeping up. Swiftly taking out soldiers he makes his way to his brothers. "Leo!" I gasp in horror at the sight of all of them hooked up. Raph attempts to break the glass with brute force and just as I was about to move to help him a familiar voice has me stopping dead in my tracks.

    "Raphael." Fear fills me as I watch Shredder approach the red banded turtle. "Glad you could join us." Walking up he extends his rip-off wolverine blades, "The fourth cage, is for you!" Growling they both charge each other and I let out a strangled gasp as Raph get thrown away with a sickening crack.

    Focusing back on the others I rush up to the monitors and desperately try and make sense of what's going on. "This shit is definitely above momma's paygrade." I mutter weakly. Giving up I rush over to Donatello. "Donnie, hey, what can I do?" I press up against his glass cage, straining my ears to hear him. Aprils horrified cry drowns out Donnie's answer and I press my ear to one of the holes. "What?!"

"Adrenaline." He whispers weakly.

    "Adrenaline." I repeat as I rush back over to the monitors. Using context clues I'm able to get into the adrenaline drip controls and amp it up.

"He's gonna kill him!" Vernon shouts as he rushes over.

    I tear up at Raph's pained cries and quickly fumble between all three turtles adrenaline drips, making sure to amp them all up. "Come on!" Pulling away I look up at them with tears running down my face. "Get up!!"

    April shouts along side me when the monitors start beeping rapidly. "It's working!" Vernon shouts as one by one the turtles heads shoot up and they rip themselves out of their restraints.

    "Back up!" I grab April's arm, dragging her back. Vernon following suit just as the turtles bust out of their cages, spraying glass everywhere.

    They stood blinking a few times before all of a sudden Mikey was running circles around us. Literally. "Ohhhh, I feel really good right now!! I feel like running!"

"I feel like cleaning! Who wants to clean the dojo?! I'll clean the dojo!"

    Donnie was staring down at his shaking hands repeating, "This is amazing!" Over and over again before looking up a running to where Raph was thrown. "Endorphins! Endorphins!"

"We gotta get Raph!"

"Raph! Raph! Raph!" They all started calling his name only to trip over and break the railing.

    I ran over to see them swarming Raph, relieved to see him getting up. Backing away I turn to see Vernon nudge April, "Come on!" We quickly run back down the building and out to the van to meet up with the turtles.

    We made it outside just in time to see a helicopter fly overhead. The turtles run out, Raph running up beside me to glare up at the chopper. "Sacks is airborne!"

"Flight time to Manhattan is 19 minutes!"

"Get us out of here Donnie!"

    I watch as Donnie begins to scan around with his goggles before squealing. "Oh my gosh, they have guns!"

    "Take cover!" The turtles quickly form a barrier between us and the enemies as they shoot off several rounds. They lightly scream before slowly quieting down when they felt no pain. After the first round was over Leo laughed and looked over at his brothers, "You guys okay?"

"Yeah." Raph grinned at him, "We're bulletproof!"

    "Sweet!" They flinch as another round of shots fire off at them. Pointing at Vernon he gestures to the semi, "Can you drive that thing?!"

"Yeah!"

"We're on Raph! Ready?"

    Raph screams and backs up, taking out several soldiers before turning and beating a guy with his own gun. Letting out a war cry, several buttles rebound out of his chest as he throws his arms back and I'm hit with a lot of confusing feelings at that sight. My eyes roam over his form before I turn to watch Leo quickly and efficiently take out several more soldiers. I gape and turn to see Donnie doing several impressive moves with his bow staff and Mikey taking out the ones next to the truck before hopping onto its roof.

"Everybody in the truck!" Leo yells snapping me out of my trance. "We gotta go, go, go! Move!"

    'Oh my god. What the fuck me?! What was that?!' I rush after Vern and April, hopping in and taking the middle seat as Vern babbles some shit about hotwiring. "Keys!" I growl out as I slap the visor down.

"That works too." He muttered, starting the truck.

    Watching everything that's going on around me I buckle up and continue to mentally scold myself. 'Now is not the time to have a sexual awakening you kinky bastard! Focus on survival!' Vernon rams the gate again and I desperately wish I was in the passenger seat so I could grab the 'oh-shit' bar.

    "I shouldn't have doubted you." Vern said, looking to April. "I'm sorry I didn't stick up for you. I can't believe you're not crazy! How crazy is that!?" Despite the situation I laugh loudly at Vernon's words and April's offended expression.

    As Vernon recklessly drives on, I see a car pull in front of us and open my mouth to say something but am unable to make any sound come out. I frantically wave and point. "V-Vernon look out!" I scream and shut my eyes as a rocket is fired off at us. I feel the car jerk to side before I'm roughly jostled. Soon we're spinning out of control and I'm unable to find a voice to scream with.

    Almost as quickly as it happened we slowed to a stop and now had our tail end hanging off a cliff. I was gasping for air and could only watch horrified as more bad guys began gunning for us.

"Vern, go, go, go, go, go!! Vern!"

    "On it!" Vernon tried to slam the gas, but the semi only started to fall back. "No, no, no, no, no, no!!!" I scream, holding the sides of my seat in a death grip.

"Wrong way! Wrong way!"

    All we could do it watch helplessly as we fell backwards, the semi out of our control when Mikey appeared. Once again, the shining light in the dark. I focused on him as he told us to just keep going straight down. He went to leave before falling back down in front of me and April. "Wass up Gummybear?! Angelcakes!"

    Vernon somehow managed to turn the semi around and somewhat get control of it. We continued to speed straight down when April has the absolutely fantastic idea of STICKING HER BODY OUT OF THE GOD DAMN WINDOW!!!! "April your crazy bitch, get back in the car!!!!" I screamed, just about at my wits end with everything going on. Vernon got distracted by O'Neil's ass and actually encouraged her to keep doing what she was doing! "Vernon the road!!!!" I screamed as we slammed into a rock of ice, April's dumbass getting thrown from the vehicle on impact.

    Screaming and failing she called out to me and Vernon as we slammed through several more rocks of ice. "Vern!! VERN!!!" God damn that girl has an iron grip! Stretching out I reach for April's hand. "Rachel!! RACHEL!!!"

    "Grab on!!" She screams and reaches for me, just managing to grab my hand. Yanking her back in she closes the door and I reach over and push the lock button. "Now buckle up!!"

    There was some pounding on the roof before the door was yanked open, breaking the lock. "Hi, change of plans." Leo went to say something when he looked behind us and moaned. "Aw, come on." I turned to see that same bitch from the train station the night I met the turtles aiming what looked like a deadly grappling hook at us. "Get down!" Ducking down, the thing shot over our heads and slammed into Leo's chest electrocuting him. He screamed attempting to get it off when the electricity was cut. Breathing a breath of relief he leaned in and grabbed at us. "Grab on." I managed to unbuckle just in time for him to yank us out of the truck.

    We began rolling and sliding through the harsh snow. All the while I had a death grip around his neck screaming. "NO! NO! NO! NO! NO! NO!"

    "Mikey! Grab the cable!!" Leo held us all in one arm while he grabbed the cable attached to his chest with the other. Mikey did as he was told but ended up tripping and letting go. I screamed as we flew over the edge burying my face in Leo's neck. Said turtle is a skilled ninja though and apparently has swords made out of fucking vibranium because he manages to stab one into the side of the cliff to keep us from falling. I want to sob in relief but for some reason am unable, "A little help!" Leo calls out.

    I peak up to see Raph bend down and lift us all up to safety one handedly. Once we're back on solid ground Leo drops Vern and places and unconscious April on the ground but I refuse to let go and koala to him. "I swear. Once this is all over, I'm gonna kill you." I choke out tears finally returning to my eyes.

    Leo wraps his arms around me and gives me a firm squeeze, "You're okay." He says gently. "I wouldn't have let you fall." I feel him crouch down so I peak out from his neck to look around. "Look, solid ground. We're fine."

    I slowly uncurl from him and let out a shaky breath as I plant my feet on the ground. "You good Gummybear?" Mikey asks in concern. Him, Raph, and Leo all crowd around me while Donnie tries to wake April.

    "Yeah." I choked out, nodding profusely as I blink back tears. "Momma didn't raise no bitch." Raph laughed at that but still look mildly concerned. "Totally fine, nearly died like, twice. Three if you count your lair. I'm livin' the dream." Taking several deep breaths I try to calm my racing heart and steady my shaking hands. "Once this is all over though. I'm kicking your collective asses."

    Raph grinned, Leo smiled, and Mikey laughed. I took one last deep breath when Donnie came over, "Guys, Aprils up! We need to hustle, Shredders over New York City!"

    Donnie begins to lead the way to the maintenance hatch when Leo scoops me up. "Raph you got Vern, Mikey grab April!" And just like that we we're gliding through the sewer tunnels like a waterpark rollercoaster ride from hell.

"Please keep your arms and legs inside the shell at all times!" Mikey joked cheerfully.

"Satellite imagery shows Shredder's reached the top of Sack's tower!"

"If that's where he's releasing the toxin from-"

    "It's gonna spread all over the city!" I was faintly relieved that my relatives lived several hours away from the city when I heard that.

    "We need to-" Raph was cut off when we flew through the air between two broken pipes. I groaned and closed my eyes, burying my face back in Leo's neck.

    Soon we made it to Sacks tower. Sliding in, the turtles landed smoothly. Leo setting me down gently as he turned to his brothers. "Alright, listen up! We gotta find the elevators and get up to the roof." Turning to us he gestured to the exit, "You guys gotta get out of here. Get to a safe distance."

    I shook my head and April spoke up. "No. No, we can go find Sack's and get our hands on the mutagen as a contingency plan, just in case... you know."

I turned to April in disbelief as Raph rolled his eyes, "Thanks for the vote of confidence."

"If we don't make it back, bring the mutagen to Splinter. It can save his life."

    "Don't make it back?!" I stepped up to Leo and roughly poked him in his chest. "If you die out there I will resurrect your ass a kill you again. You hear me?" Leo blinked down at me in surprise. "I'll see you guys later." I said firmly, making eye contact with each of them.

    Backing up Leo nodded. "Sack's laboratory is on the 36th floor. I've already disabled the security system." Donnie nodded to me and went to leave before turning back, "Oh, and uh. Good luck." He offered a smile and started to leave with his brothers.

    Mikey, however, approached me and April. "If I don't return, remember me ladies. You can always find me," he reached out and poked us both in our chests. "In here." I raise a brow at Mikey before looking to Raph who rolled his eyes and walked up to drag Mikey away.

Vernon huffed and turned to O'Neil, "You are one complicated chick."

    Taking off we find the stairs and look at each other. "Hope y'all are wearin' your Fitbits." And with that we began to hike up all the stairs periodically taking breaks. Gulping for air once we do reach the 36th floor I mutter, "Why did they get ta take the elevator? They're ninjas! I'm not trained for this shit." We're all panting as we stumble towards the lab, running in only to duck down when Sack's shoots at us.

    "Seriously?!" Sack's laughs. "You guys, you're adorable, really. I could just, pinch your cheeks!" Vernon goes to peak over the table only to get shot at several times. "I understand a girl with dead daddy issues, I do. But you're not gonna stop me." Vernon and I both have the same idea when we spot the 'Abort' button on the side of the wall. Vernon gestures for April to look, allowing her to catch on. "This is history, repeating itself. Your father walked in on me April, just like you did. Took a few less bullets to take him down though." He fired off several more shots and I knew he would need to reload soon.

    Looking to April I saw her panting heavily. "You killed my father." Glancing at her worriedly Vernon sits up and ducks behind another table, making his way around Sacks.

    Sacks slowly approaches where April is, gun trained on the spot. I notice Vernon needs an opening so I quickly hop up. Sacks swings the gun to aim at me which allows Vernon to grab something and charge at Sack's, "O'Neil!" Sack's spins and shoots at Vernon, April launching herself at the button which shoots out white gas. Vernon manages to knock Sacks out with a microscope, falling down with him.

    April quickly rushed to Vernon, "Are you okay?!" She hisses when she sees the gunshot wound on Vernon's arm.

"Look, just go get some help and take the mutagen with you." April hesitates, "Just go! Go!"

"No! I'm not leaving you!"

    "I got it!" I growl running over to unhook the mutagen canister. "April find something to tie Sack's up with! After that get Vernon out of here and get him some help!"

"What about you?!"

    Picking up the canister I give her a determined look, "I'm gonna go kick some ninja ass." With that I run out of the lab and back towards the stairs. Despite what I said I feel no confidence in my abilities to take on the Shredder much less defeat him. I'll do my best to save the turtles though. Because I know they'd do it for me. 'Besides, even if I die, I'll die knowing my family loves me and that they know I love them.' Finally making it to the roof it seems I made it just in time. Shredder was currently beating up on Leo as he and the others tried to hold the tower up. "SHREDDER!!" I screamed holding up the green canister. He spins to face me and I back up, waving it tauntingly. "This is all that's left!"

    "Little girl." He growled stalking towards me. I feel myself hit the corner of the railing and inwardly swear. He jumps landing a few feet in front of me. "That belongs to me." I grip the railing with my free hand and swallow heavily as he walks up to me. The brothers shout and the tower begins to fall. I glance up at it to make sure it won't crush me, but that's when Shredder strikes. I'm too late to react as he full body tackles me off the side of the building. Snatching the mutagen from my hands he kicks me away and grabs onto the tower.

    I scream bloody murder and grapple for something, just managing to catch myself. I hang from the bar, swinging idly as I desperately try and get a better grip with my sweaty hands. Shredder makes his way to me, nearly falling due to the weight of his suit. "Rachel!!" I look to see the turtles hopping down and running to help me. Relieved at the back up I refocus on Shredder and watch as he clips the mutagen to his side. Reaching behind him he pulls out what looks like a sword and chucks it at me. Terrified that it might hit me I instinctively let go and scream as I look up at the brothers, desperately reaching out for them.

"NO!"

    "RACHEL!!!" Raph dives for me, his brothers following and manages to grab me just in time. I scream in pain at my shoulder being yanked and desperately grab to Raph's wrist with my other hand. "Don't worry. I got ch'ya."

    "Raph!" I cry, terrified. The Shredder tries to take us out by throwing a blade at Mikey who is able to deflect it. Raph looks over, glaring at the metal man when I get an idea. Swallowing down my fear one last time I look back up at him. "Swing me towards him!"

    Raph looks conflicted but when Leo orders him to do it, he complies. In true Raph fashion he gives me a look and then grunts with a nod. They begin to swing and I tighten my hold on Raph's arm. Once I'm close enough, I swing with the turtles and drop-kick him with all that I got. He screams as the bar holding him breaks and he plummets to his (hopefully) death. I watch as he makes a small crater with his landing. Breathing a sigh of relief they began to heft me up. Once safely on the tower I climb further in and koala myself to a bar, pressing my face into the cool metal.

    The metal begins to creak and I start to freak out, "No! No! No! No! No! No! No!!!" The building holding us up gave way and we started to free fall, occasionally crashing into other buildings.

"I think this is it guys!" Donnie cried out.

"Does anyone have anything they want to say?!" Leo calls out. "Donnie?"

    "I'm the one who licks the icing off the pop tarts every morning and puts them back in the box!!" He cried.

"I so did not understand the ending of lost!!" Mikey adds.

We fell a little more and Leo called for his last brother, "Raph?"

    "I just uh.. If this is our last moment together, I just want you guys to know that I'm sorry! I'm sorry I was so hard on you!! Every time I pushed you, I- I threatened you, I yelled at you, I pushed you beyond your limits, it's because I believe in you!! I believe in each one of you! I believe in your spirit an-and your intelligence and your potential! And every time I talked about walkin' away it was because I was scared! I just didn't think I was good enough to stand next to you and call you brothers! And say to you- I LOVE YOU! I love you guys so much!!"

    Suddenly I felt myself jerk and the feeling of rushing air left me. Gasping, I fell back onto the ruble and metal. "Raph?" I heard Donnie say. "We made it." I wanted to laugh at the statement but found that I couldn't. My whole body was shaking and I couldn't move. All I could do was gasp and stare up at the debris flying in the air.

"Are you crying?"

    "No ding-dong." Raph choked out. "It's just a little dusty out here." The crowd of people quickly swarmed the area around Shredder giving the turtles a chance to escape unseen.

"Rachel?" Donnie whispered worried. Glancing nervously at the large group of people.

    "Go." I choked out, still shaking but nowhere near as badly. "I'll get you the mutagen." With a nod he disappeared with his brothers.

    A few minutes later I head a voice shout. "Hey! There's someone in here!" I am barley able to lift my head to see a fireman peaking through the metal bars. More gasps and people were quickly herded back again, and several firefighters extracted me from the wreckage. "Mam? Mam, are you okay? Can you hear me?"

I close my eyes and breath shakily, "Yeah." I whisper.

    "What happened?" A blanket was wrapped around me and cops were shouting about how the paramedics were still a few minutes away due to the wreckage.

    Thinking of something on the fly I stammer out, "I- He- I was kidnapped." I looked over to Shredder, "He kidnapped me!" I pointed an accusing finger and turned to the police and firefighter with wide eyes. "He was talking nonsense! Something about finding a cure and- and" I pointed to the metal tower behind me, "He said he was going to use this to release a toxin!"

    With a swear the police chief ordered his men to search the wreckage of the tower for any kind of poison or toxin and to evacuate the area. "How did you end up on the tower mam?"

    Inwardly I cursed and cussed myself out for this but outwardly I gave the officer an 'awed' look. "W-well there was this couple. They said their names were April O'Neil and Vernon Fenwick." I shook my head. "I don't know how but they caught onto his plan! They came to stop him when they found and freed me!" I cried a little, taking the tissues that were offered. "I tried to help them! I-I was already so scared and- and I was so mad!" I shook my head as if I didn't understand my own emotions. "I tricked him and managed to destroy the tower before he could finish releasing the toxin but he- he tried to kill me!" I began to sob and held onto the chief. "Oh I was so scared!!!" I wailed and cried as the chief tried to calm me down. "That- That bastard killed so many of his own men! Scientists that were helping him! I think April and Vernon even managed to capture one of the guys who helped kidnap me!"

    I began to act hysterical and the police chief tried to calm me down. "It's okay mam. Just take a minute to breathe. I'll be right back." He went to converse with his team and the firefighters. I watched carefully and while no-one was looking, I was able to rush over to the Shredders limp body.

    Thanking the lord that the chief had the people evacuated I swooped down and dislodged the canister from the ground. Ripping off a piece of my torn shirt I wrapped the canister up and tucked it underneath my arm, using the blanket to hide it. Bending down I glared at the man, "I'll see you in hell bitch." I whispered before pulling back and shouting, "Screw you! I hope you get what's coming to you for what you did!" I pretended to start kicking him while he was down and just as I expected the chief rushed over and 'pulled me' off of him. I cried and thrashed, "Let me go! No!"

"Mam! Mam you need to calm down!"

"You don't know what he did to me!"

    "I know mam but the paramedics are on their way and you cannot do that." He gave me a stern look. "Don't let him win mam. By doing this you're letting him hold that power over you. Show him you're stronger than that." I took several dramatic deep breaths and nodded shakily. "Good, now go sit back down. Cool off, preserve your energy." He rubbed my shoulder before turning back to his men and ordering them to start extracting Shredder from his crater and suit.

    Letting out a breath I carefully wonder over to the nearby manhole. "Guys?" I whisper looking around to make sure no one was watching. "You still there?"

"For you Gummybear? Always."

    I smiled and crouched down as the cover cracked open. Sliding the canister in to them I whisper, "I'll see you around then yeah?"

"Of course. You're family now. And family sticks together."

    I smile at Leo's words and nod, "Good. Tell Splinter I wish him well. I have to go keep acting hysterical." Mikey laughed and with that I stood and walked back over to my original spot. Sitting down I close my eyes again and take a deep breath. 'I'm okay. I survived. I'm okay.'

Chapter Text

    My family, understandably, made a whole event out of me coming home. Cory and Aaron got a one-way flight to New York and for an entire week we basked in each other's presence and did everything together. I can't really complain since I thoroughly enjoyed it and seriously need that after what had happened.

"I love y'all." I whispered into my brother's chest as they wrapped me in a hug.

"And we love you Rach." Cory replied, hugging me closer.

    I sighed wistfully as I stared out of the window to my work. That was two weeks ago and my brothers were already back in Georgia. I missed them terribly but life must go on and that was a hard pill for my parent to swallow. It was nearing 10 o'clock which meant it was almost time for me to clock out. My parents 10000000% did NOT want me working nights for a long time after what happened but when I reminded them that I was 'kidnapped' during the day they didn't have much of an argument. Not to say they didn't try though.

    I hadn't heard from the turtles since that day and I could only hope that they were enjoying their own version of family therapy like I did. A small part of me whispered that they wouldn't come back but I ignored that voice. They said they would and I trust that they will at least hold up their word. If only to say goodbye. Sighing I shifted and looked around the café tiredly.

"Collins!" I spun to face my boss, Ryan. "Your side work done?"

"Yeah."

"Get out of here." He waved and I grinned, thanking him.

    Clocking out I quickly rush out of the shop and start my long track home. About 5 minutes into my walk I hear a unique sounding horn and spin to face a unique looking jeep with a custom turtle print paint job. Grinning I was able to see Donnie and Leo in the front seats. I jog over to them, the back door popping open to show Mikey and Raph. "Guys!" I laughed and leaned up on my tippy-toes to hug Mikey who hung out of the car to hug me. "Glad to see y'all are okay! What ch'ya been up to? How's Splinter?"

Leo laughed, "He's good, making a steady recovery."

    "Sorry we haven't been around Gummybear. Been doin some renovations to the lair. Even made a little spot for you in my room." He winked and grinned at me causing me to blush.

"MIKEY!" The brothers shouted.

"Ignore him, how have you been Rachel?"

    I shrugged, "Been alright, my brothers flew out to see me. Kinda, reassure themselves I'm alive and well." I laughed. "Had some good ol'fashined family therapy."

"That's good," Leo nodded.

I gave him a teasing grin, "So you drive now? Are you even old enough to get a license?"

    Mikey laughed and Donnie huffed, "Oh yeah!" Leaning back he casually gestured around, "I pimped this bad boy out! Got a 42-inch plasma with the NBA package, shaved ice machine, and a 7.1 digital surround sound." He had a smug grin on his face, clearly proud of himself.

    Laughing I let out a low whistle, "Now that there is impressive D. Maybe one day you can take me for a ride in it." A blush quickly set fire to his face causing me to giggle softly.

"Well hey," Leo shrugged, "No better time then the present. Want us to give you a ride home?"

I gape at him and grin widely, "Really?!"

"For sure!" Mikey cheered. "I even got a real nice song that's all cued up. It's special girl, for us."

"No, don't." Raph warned. "Don't do it."

"Come on Mikey!"

"No, no, no. Mikey you promised!"

    "No, I'm gonna do it." Music started to play and Mikey grinned, ignoring his brothers cries. "It's happening." He began to sing, "Imagine me and you~ I do-"

"Stop singin, right now!"

"I think about you day and night, it's only right~"

"Leo I'm gonna hit him!"

"Raph don't hit him-"

"I'm gonna start punchin 'em. I'm not kidding here."

    "To think about~" He held out his hand and I laughed, taking it as he pulled me into the back with him and Raph.

"3..2.. if I get to one I'm gonna-"

"The girl you love~ And hold her tight!"

"SHUT UP MIKEY!"

    I laugh as Mikey turns up the song and starts dancing, "I can't see me lovin nobody but you for all my life!!!" I clap as he continues to sing, "When your with me baby the skies will be blue for all my life!!" I join in and soon we're all laughing and belting out the lyrics horribly.

    I quickly shoot my mom a text that I had some friends pick me up and she said so long as I was home by midnight then I can have fun and to be safe. Grinning over at Mikey and Raph I let them know, "I'm yours till midnight y'all." Donnie and Leo turn to look at me with bright eyes, grinning right along with me. "Now, why don't y'all show me what this thing can really do?"

Chapter Text

The next few chapters will be kind of like one-shots. I'm writing them and adding them in to add context and build Rachel and the turtles relationship so the next book flows more smoothly.

I hope y'all enjoy!! :))))

Chapter Text

     After the first time they picked me up after work it quickly became a habit. I soon looked forward to the end of my shifts. Day or night they were there, grinning and welcoming. Of course, their pimped-out jeep got stares during the day but I never hesitated to run up to it and hop in.

     It was after one of my morning shifts that I decided to comment on it. “Ya know, I’m pretty sure y’alls widow tint is so dark that it’s technically illegal.” I slurped up some of the blueberry snow cone Mikey made for me in their shaved-ice machine as I peered at one of the windows.

Donnie laughed, “Oh, it totally is.” He shrugged, “But it allows us to pick you up after your morning shifts so we can hang out; so it’s cool.”

I smiled in amusement at the thought that they didn’t mind law braking if it was for me. “Aw, thanks D.”

I was pulled into a hug from behind, looking up I saw Mikey’s beaming smile. “So what ch’ya wanna do today Gummybear?”

I hummed in thought and propped my elbow up on his large forearms to rest my head in my palm. “That’s a good question Sugarcube.” I looked over at Raph who was casually leaning next to the ice machine, “Any idea’s Red?”

Raph grunted, “No.”

I rolled my eyes, “Thanks for the help.” He only grinned in response. Tapping my chin as I looked around my eyes zoned in on Leo’s katanas. “Oh!” I began bouncing in Mikey’s arms, “Can y’all teach me some self-defense moves?”

Raph blinked in surprise and Leo turned to look at me in equal shock. “You want to train?”

I shrugged, “Sure, it looks and sounds fun. Plus I’ve always wanted to take boxing lessons.”

“Then why don’t you?” Raph quirked a brow.

     “My dad said- and I quote- ‘I don’t want you to mess up that pretty face of yours’.” I rolled my eyes. “In all honesty he just doesn’t want me to learn. Not in a mean way but…” I scrunch up my nose in thought. “He’s… stuck in his ways.” I roll my hand as I try to think of a way to put it. “The best way I can explain it is that he’s low-key sexist. Don’t get me wrong, I love him and he loves me. I know he wants me ta be able to defend myself but- well, he also doesn’t want me ta do what he considers ‘male sports’.”

Raph scoffed, “That’s stupid.”

I shrugged, “Yea, but I’m used to it.”

“We’ll definitely show you how to fight.” Leo assures. “I’ll talk with Master Splinter, maybe he can help out.”

“Awesome!” I cheer.

Soon we arrive back at the lair and the boys lead me to the dojo where Splinter is meditating. Leo motions for us to wait as he approached Splinter. Quietly lowering himself onto him knees he speaks, “Master Splinter?”

The rats eyes open calmly, “Leonardo, I heard you approach. What troubles you my child?”

Leo smiles, “Nothing dad, I was just wondering if it would be possible to include Rachel in our future training sessions.”

Splinter hums and strokes his beard, “And this is what you want?” He turns to me in question as he examines me.

“Only if it’s no trouble.” I smile nervously.

He hums again before speaking, “Boys, let me speak with Miss. Rachel alone.” Leo shifts nervously and exchanges some glances with his brothers. “Maybe you all can figure out what we will be having for lunch.”

“R-Right.” Leo stands and shoots me and encouraging smile before herding his brothers away.

Turning away from them I see Splinter smiling up at me, “Come.” He gestures to the cushion in front on him, “Sit.” Swallowing nervously, I quickly walk over and sink to the ground. “No need to be so worried child, you are not in trouble.”

I laugh nervously, “Right.”

     Splinter only seems to smile more at my response. “Now, why don’t you tell me what brought on this request.” He pours more tea into the cup next to him before pouring a second one and handing it over to me. I take it gratefully and bring it up to my nose, inhaling its sent. I sigh happily, my muscles relaxing at the familiar smell. “You are familiar with Gotu Kola?”

     I smile, “Probably, my mom lives off of tea.” I take a few sips and hum, “I don’t really appreciate it as much as my momma does but she’s always tryin' new teas. Ones for stress, anxiety, sleep, energy- anything she needs or wants really.” Splinter hummed and continued to stare at me patiently. “Oh- uh, what made me want to learn. Right.” I laughed nervously and began to fiddle with the cup. “Well, I’ve always wanted to learn self-defense honestly. My parents never indulged me though.” I shrugged, “They have their reasons and what not but I’m a very independent person. I’m also extremely self-aware so I’m acutely aware of both my positive and negative traits. One of my negative traits being that I’m rather trusting of new people.” I pause to take a few sips of tea. “Not to the extent my parents make it out to be but enough to where it would be… unwise… for me to not have at least some basic knowledge of self-defense.”

Splinter nodded and stroked his beard in thought. “Why would consider your trusting personality to be a negative trait that requires you to know protection?”

“Well, I’ve had experiences with people I thought I could trust that ended up being crappy people.”

“We’ve all miscalculated before.”

     “Yes but,” I sigh. “Let me lay it out for you.” Setting my cup down I begin to gesture, “A random person approaches me out of nowhere. Already, red flags are going off, I know I need to be cautious. Now, I’ve already got a feel for them before they’ve even spoke based on appearance and the way they walk. People who say not to judge a book by it’s cover are ignorant and clearly need to have their eyes opened. Yes, you should never treat a person poorly based on appearance alone, but you definitely shouldn’t be overly trusting either.” I wave my hands, “Anyways, I already have a feel for them. If they’re dressed strangely based on the area or weather; more red flags. If they’re dressed overly-poor- red flags. If not, then I trust them more than I would have if they weren’t dressed properly.” Splinter nodded. “As soon as they start speaking you can basically learn all you need to know to establish basic trust. The way they speak, the sound of their voice, and how they word things. Now, if an appropriately dressed person approached me and just spoke in a normal, casual way then I would trust them.”

     “This is where things get lost in translation though, because I don’t mean, ‘Hey, let’s go on a road trip together’ or ‘Hey, let’s go out alone together and hang out’ kind of trust. I mean it in a ‘I probably don’t have anything to worry about, I can sit a chat for a bit’ kind of trust.” Splinter made a small ‘ah’ noise in understanding. “However, those interactions can lead to problems. Not necessarily right away, but if we hit it off and exchange numbers so we can try and get to know each other and be friends the problems could appear then. There’s always a 50/50 chance of it happening.” I pick up my tea and finish it off. “Point being, I do that all the time. I almost always give a person a chance. This can be dangerous though, so I’ve always felt a bit uncomfortable not knowing how to properly defend myself.”

“And this is why you wish to learn?”

“Yes, for the most part.”

“Why only request lessons now? You have been friends with my sons for 4 months now.”

I grinned sheepishly, “Well, it’s never really come up. And, whenever I did think of it I didn’t want to ask because I didn’t want to intrude.” I fiddled with my empty cup, “I also didn’t think I would be allowed.”

     Splinter hummed, “Years of being told no will understandably put doubts in your head.” He reached forward and brought my cup closer to refill it. “However, you need never be afraid to ask me of something. I will do what I can to help you with whatever issue you run into.” He smiled kindly at me, “You are very dear to my sons and in so are dear to me.” He bowed his head, “I would be happy to teach you.”

I grinned, “Oh thank you Splinter! Or-er Master Splinter.”

Splinter grinned, “You are most welcome my child.” He gestured to the door, “Now go, I feel as though we have left my sons waiting long enough.”

     With a laugh and a nod I stood up and downed the cup of tea, “Thanks again Master Splinter.” I handed him his cup back before running out of the dojo and over the lounge area. Walking in I see Leo pacing in front of the T.V with Mikey watching him. Donnie had a book in his lap and Raph was doing push-ups in the corner. “Y’all good?”

Leo’s head snapped to me. “Gummybear!” Mikey was on me in an instant. He scooped me up in a hug and spun me around. “Oh, we were so worried! You were in there forever! What were you guys talking about?!”

I laughed, “Calm down Mikey!” Patting his shoulder, he let me down and I smiled up at them. “He said I could start trainin'!”

Mikey whooped and Leo nodded, “That’s a relief.”

I laughed, “Yer tellin me! Jeez!” I let out a puff of air. “I felt like I was under a microscope! I made sure to talk properly ‘n all that ‘cause I felt like my accent was too informal.” I laughed and ran a hand through my hair.

Leo smiled amused, “He has to listen to Mikey’s slang talk and Raph's own unique accent. He wouldn’t have cared about your accent.” He patted my shoulder, “You actually have a reason to have one!”

I laughed, “Yea, you’re right.”

     “We decided to have a Harry Potter movie marathon!” Mikey cheered dancing back towards the couch. “You still have that tub of cookie dough in the fridge we can eat and by the time we make it through all the movies we’ll have just enough time to get you back home for dinner!”

I grinned, “Sounds perfect.”

     And just like that we settled in and began our movie marathon. I was snuggled between Mikey and Leo, Raph on the opposite side of Mikey, and Donnie reclined in the armchair. We laughed and snacked all throughout the movie, each of us mouthing our favorite parts and mocking Snape's voice. Roughly every two movies we’d take a break to stretch out and switch up the seating arrangements but for the most part we lazed around just enjoying eachother’s company. Master Splinter even came out to join us for a while.

     Overall it was an awesome time. Smiling and leaning into Donnie’s side I watch Harry and the gang try to escape the snatchers. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of hanging out with the turtles. When I’m with them I feel like I can vibe and just be myself. It’s an incredible feeling.

Chapter Text

     It’s been 8 months now that I’ve known the turtles and Master Splinter. Four months since I’ve started my ninjitsu-training. In all of the time I’ve spent with them I’ve seen very little of April O’Neil. Not that I was complaining; I don’t know why but I just really wasn’t a huge fan of her. However, today was different. I had only been at the lair for about an hour when April showed up.

     She strolled in and looked around with narrowed eyes, clearly focused and looking for someone. I watched as she scanned the room before her eyes landed on me. Her eyes widened in surprise, “Oh, Rachel, right?” She walked up, “I haven’t seen you in a while, what are you doing here?”

     I shrugged, “Just chillin.” I then gestured to the T.V, “Transformers: Dark of the Moon is on.” Right now adds were playing so I was on my phone looking at memes but the obnoxious click of Aprils ankle boots distracted me.

“Ah.” She glanced at the T.V with obvious disinterest before looking around again. “Have you seen Donnie? I need his help with something.”

I blinked in surprise, “The boys are our sewer skating, why? What do you need help with?”

     She huffed, “The Foot Clan is still making moves even with Sacks and Shredder behind bars. I’ve been following them and investigating what they’re doing but it’s hard. I haven’t gotten too many leads.”

I quirked a brow at her, “And what do you want Donnie to do about that?”

She shrugged, “He’s computer smart. I was hoping he could do some deep web surfing or whatever. Maybe he has a gadget I could use.”

I hummed, “Well, I don’t know about any gadgets but I can start surfing the internet for chatter, keep tabs on cameras and such for you.”

“You know how to do that?” She asked in surprise.

I laughed, “Well it’s not rocket science.” I stood up, “I’ll see what I can find and have Donnie give you a call.”

She blinked in surprise, “Oh, okay. Thanks Rachel!” She turned and began to walk off, “Have him call me when he gets back too!”

     “Will do!” I smiled and wave till she out of sight before dropping my hand with a frown. ‘Why is she looking into the Foot Clan?’ I head over to what Mikey calls the ‘entertainment center’ which is really just a wall of T.V and monitors that Donnie uses for research and security. Plopping onto the massive chair made out of skateboards I pull my hair into a bun and sit crisscross-applesauce. Popping my neck I hunch over and get to work.

     I already have a decent amount of information gathered about the Foot Clan and people known associating with them as well as other rising criminal organizations and gangs. About a month after I started my ninjutsu training the guys were talking about the rising crime rates and I decided that someone needed to keep a closer eye on them. They agreed and Donnie and I quickly tackled the virtual aspect of it. We had several alarms set for different security and traffic cameras as well as a separate server used for keeping an eye on the chats rooms we discovered.

     The fact that April is also trying to work an angle on this has me curious as I didn’t know she was still interested in it. After we took down Shredder and I gave the false story of what happened her and Vern raised in popularity. She down played her part enough to where she wasn’t going to be receiving a key to the city like Vern was but in the end was still rather famous. The turtles, April, and Vernon ended up working out an arrangement to where Vernon would take the majority of the credit. And boy did he take to that idea like a duck to water.

     I’ve lost count on how many channels I’ve had to skip over because he was being interviewed by one person or another. April, however, used her fame to not only get her job back but now she even had her own little segment. She attended some more exclusive parties and charities with her newfound fame but otherwise only did about four interviews. Her new ‘NYC Watchdog’ segment was a hit and focused heavily on crime rates in NYC and it effects. She also focuses on the rising homeless population, charities to help stop it, and many other things which is kind of making her the ‘sweetheart’ of NYC.

     Wondering what could’ve caught the reporter’s attention I check the few different chat rooms we have access to and sure enough one of the rising gangs were giving off a lot of chatter. This particular gang called themselves the Purple Dragons. Mostly harmless but apparently has had a recent influx of members with all the chatter going on. Swiping up my discarded headphones I put on some music and lost myself in the research.

     Apparently there was several drug deals they had planned so that they could get enough money for some weapons. They were hoping if all went well they could be included in a near by drug ring. They used a lot of code words and said next to nothing about the drug ring but at least they confirmed its existence. My hands flew across the keyboard as I took notes, my eyes flickering between 5 different screens. Donnie and I had been hearing whispers of a drug ring in the chart rooms but nothing had been confirmed until now.

     Absently, I thought that maybe that was why they weren’t included in the drug ring. Afterall, we weren’t sure if there was one until they confirmed it. I felt a hand on my shoulder and jumped. Looking up I see Donnie looking at me in curious amusement. I pull of my headphones, “You’re back!” I smile and stand to hug him.

     Smiling back her returns the hug, “Yeah, we got back about 10 minutes ago. You just looked so concentrated that I didn’t want to bother you.” I let out a small ‘oh’ and glance back at all the work I’ve done. “Master Splinter said you’ve been here for about 2 hours though so I came over to see what you were up to.”

     I blink, ‘2 hours?!’ Only just feeling how cramped I feel I gestured to the computer and backed up a bit to give myself some stretching room. Donnie took a seat and began to look through what I’ve been doing as I explained what happened. “So, turns out the reason she wasn’t finding any leads was because she wasn’t even tailing the right criminal organization.”

Donnie laughed, “I’d hardly consider the Purple Dragons a ‘criminal organization’.”

I laughed in agreement, “Yeah, I suppose yer right.”

     Donnie continued to scroll thought my notes with a hum. “Wow Rachel, this is some good stuff. You really were focused!” I blushed as he cross-referenced my notes with the screencaps I took. “I’ll have to let Leo know about the drug ring now that it’s confirmed. And we’ll have to keep a closer eye on these Purple Dragons but other than that I think if we can find a location of one of their deals and get a feel for them then we should be able to handle it.” I nodded as he stood, “I’ll call April. Thanks for the help Rachel.” He reached over and squeezed my shoulder before walking off and dialing Aprils number into his T-Phone.

     I walked over to the lounge area and gamed for a bit with Raph and Mikey before leaving. I heard later that after April learned who she should really investigate she managed to overhear a couple thugs talking about a ‘PD drug deal’. She informed Donnie and the guys managed to bust it. The next day I turned on NYC Watchdog and sure enough, April was reporting about an uprising gang called the Purple Dragons.

     With a sigh I flop onto my side and zone out as I watch April talk. I may not be a huge fan of her, but she always seemed to manage to pull through when it was needed. I rolled onto my back and stared up at the ceiling. ‘Maybe I should get to know her better, learn how to do a bit of in-person investigating myself.’ Yawning I decided that yes, that’s precisely what I would do. A meow sounded and Khaleesi hopped up on my chest. ‘I can start tomorrow’, I decided as I closed my eyes and pet Khlaeesi’s head, allowing her soft purring to lull me into a sleep.

Chapter Text

   Birthdays never really stood out to me. Whenever I made new friends the only time the topic would come up was if their birthday was coming up or if they asked about mine. I’m a good and loyal friend though so I have a note in my phone full of my friends birthdays so I can always wish them a happy one when it rolls around. The only birthdays I ever really pay any mind to is my family’s. So when Mikey was asking me what I thought was the best gift for Raph, I was curious. Why he was getting Raph a gift at all?

“What kind of prank did you pull that you would need to sedate him with a gift?” I asked clearly amused.

Mikey looked confused for a minute before realization flashed across his face. “Oh! You don’t know!”

I frowned, “Know what?”

“Raph’s birthday is next week!”

“What?!” I stood, the chair scraping harshly behind me. Mikey was laughing at my panicked expression as I began to scan his list with a more critical eye. “When?!”

“Hey! Don’t steal my ideas!” He quickly snatched his list back with a grin. “Wednesday, the 19th.”

I swore, “I’m working a double that day.” I begin to worry my lip, “Maybe I can swing by on my lunch.” My mind racing, I was brought back to reality when Mikey placed a comforting hand on my shoulder.

“Chillax Gummybear! Raph will understand.” He gave me a kind smile. “Afterall, it’s not your fault no-one told you!”

“Right.” I mutter disheartened.

   I left it alone after that. I gave Mikey my opinions on his ideas and began to watch Raph more closely. I desperately wracked my brain for anything Raph might have mentioned wanting recently and came up empty. It wasn’t till I saw Raph doing bicep curl – ‘hot damn, I will never tire of that sight’ – that I remembered him talking about how he wished he had more equipment to work out with/on.

   Grinning I stood and told the turtles present that mom texted and wanted me home to do chores. We bid each other good-bye and I quickly made my way home to do some online scavenging. “Come on Craigslist! Don’t fail me now!” I managed to find a rusty, partially broken all-in-one trainer for 400$. It had different pully systems, a built in squat-rack and 4 of the 11 original attachments for the pulleys.  Two of the four pulleys were broken and needed new cords. With a sigh I knew I’d have to dip into my savings to afford this. Not wasting any time I emailed the owner and began to think of ways to get the damn thing down there.

   In the end I had to call upon Master Splinters help. He commandeered the boys car and helped me load it up once the owner left. He took me to a nearby tunnel that I could store it in while I fixed the pulleys. “You really don’t need to go to such lengths Miss. Rachel. He will be happy just to have it.”

I gave Splinter an offended look. “I’m not gonna give him a broken present!”

   Shaking his head with a smile he left it alone. Going to my local Lowes and Home Depot I bought some heavy duty chains and cords. I replaced the original chains with the news ones I got hoping it would hold up longer with all of Raphs muscle. And by God did he have muscles. Several YouTube tutorials, swearing, and hours of pinching my fingers later I had all four pulley’s re-corded and working. It was still rusty and the picture depicting things you can do was still faded and peeling; but it worked and I knew Raph would love it. Currently all Raph had was some dumbbells, a bench press, several weighted plates, and a pull-up bar that was skrewed into the ground and reinforced with bags of cement laying on it.

   When December 19th rolled around I was up early and at the abandoned tunnel by 9am. Splinter met me there shortly after I arrived to help me move it to Raphs weight room. “I have sent them out to pick up some birthday breakfast pizza.” He informed me amused, “They will not return for another 30 minutes at the earliest.”

Nodding relieved we loaded the machine into the car Splinter borrowed and drove it to their lair. After unloading it I looked up at the tunnel in the wall with despair. “Aw come on.” I gestured up to it, “How are we supposed to get this up there?!”

“Fear not my child, there is a way.” Moving the ladder to the side Master Splinter brought out a ramp that (apparently) clipped onto the side of the tunnel.

I gave it a dubious look. “Oh yes, I’m not worried at all.”

Splinter laughed, “Don’t worry, it will hold.”

Taking Splinter’s word for it we each grabbed a side and carefully moved it up into the dead end tunnel. After moving some things around to get it to fit properly I grinned and slapped a red bow on the side of it. “Perfect!” Turning to Splinter I bowed slightly, “Thank you for your help.”

“No, thank you for doing this.” He placed a clawed hand on my shoulder, “I have no doubt Raphael will be very grateful.”

   Grinning I felt some of my anxiety leave me, “I sure hope so.” Checking the time I gesture to the exit, “I gotta go, tell Raph I said happy birthday and that I’m sorry I couldn’t make it.” Splinter nodded and I quickly dropped a note onto the bench for Raph before taking off for work.

~~~

   It was the end of my shift and I was a walking ball of anxiety. I hadn’t heard from Raph or any of the guys since I sent the initial Happy Birthday text when I woke up. Knowing that the guys wouldn’t be here to pick me up due to the special occasion and due to the fact my mom wanted me to come straight home I only gave a courtesy scan of the parking lot before heading home. It was five minutes into my walk when I heard a loud thud behind me. Spinning around I see Raph standing there, chest heaving like he had just ran a marathon. “Raph?”

   Without a word I was scooped into a bone crushing hug. The air was squeezed out of me with a wheeze and I did my best to hug him back with my arms pinned to my side. He held me like that for about a minute before reluctantly setting me down.  I gave him a confused look and went to ask what that was for when he spoke. “I saw yer gift.” He mumbled, looking down. “I-” He let out a huff. “I didn’t see it until – like – an hour ago.” I blinked in surprise. “I- Thank you.” He pulled me into another hug but this one was much softer.

Smiling I hugged him back, “Of course! I’m just sorry I couldn’t be there for yer birthday!” I gave a sheepish smile, “Forgive me?”

Raph stared at me with an emotion I couldn’t identify before shaking his head. “Yeah,” He smiled. “I forgive ya.”

Grinning, I nod, “Good. Walk me home?”

   Together we walked back to my apartment, talking about our days and just anything in general. Raph gave me his brothers birthdays so I could request off of work and told me about why they were all so random. “We use ta just celebrate our mutation day in April.” I laughed at the irony in that. “But, at around 12 Mikey wanted his own birthday.” He laughed, “He said we should all be allowed to have our own days like every’ne else. When Don tried to point out that we were quads’ Mikey ignored him.”

“Y’all are quads?!” Raph nodded. “That’s so cool.”

He shrugged. “Eh, I supp’os.” We reached my apartment and I turned to face him.  “Anyways, Mast’a Splin’er said he saw no reason ta deny us tha request so we all chose our own birthdays.”

I laughed, “That’s awesome.”

“Yeah.” We stood there silently for a minute before Raph rubbed the back of his neck, “Well, I guess I’ll see ya around.”

I nodded, “Yeah, I don’t have plans ta’marra so I’ll prob'ly swing by.”

Nodding Raph looked around before, quick as a flash, pecking me on the temple. “See ya ta’morro!” And with that he was gone.

   I stared after him stunned before I felt my face heat up. I quickly rushed inside and took the stairs two at a time. My heart racing, I went straight to my room and closed the door. ‘Holy Shit. Raph kissed me!’ I stared blankly for a minute before quietly squealing and doing a small excited shimmy. Grinning I fell onto my bed and stared up at the ceiling. ‘Maybe I have a chance.’

~~~

   It was 7 months later when Mikey’s birthday came. I had gotten him a set of good quality oil paints along with some new brushes and a pack of 3 canvasses. Mikey loved to draw and had expressed to me his wish to expand his skills one night when he came over and found me messing with my new watercolor set.

   I had work off and did all my chores the night before to be extra sure I could spend the day with the guys. Mikey was ecstatic and begged me to make my ‘super special omelets’ for breakfast. Amused I indulged him and whipped up everyone’s favorite omelets. Mikey moaned as he took his first bite, “Amazing! Mmmmm! So good!” I smirked and quirked a brow at him. He gave me a wide eyed look in return, “Marry me?”

Leo and Raph who were mid-swallow choked and began coughing before Raph managed to whirl on Mikey, “Mikey! What the heck?!”

“What?!” He whined. “She’s wifey material! I need to snatch her up before someone else does!”

I blushed brightly and laughed, “I’m not that great Mikey.” I offer him a smile, “But thank you.”

Leo spoke up this time, “Why don’t we all just agree to disagree?” Mummers of agreement rang through the kitchen causing me to roll my eyes in amusement.

“So what’s the plan for today y’all?

"I want to go sewer skating! Then maybe hold a gaming tournament between all of us! I know Anglecakes is coming down for that and pizza. She even said she’d bring some ice cream!” Mikey seemed excited about that.

“That’s awesome Mike! Do you know what kind?”

Mikey shook his head, “I don’t really care though. I’ve never had ice cream before so I’m excited to try whatever flavor she brings!” He beamed up at me and took a large bite of the omelet.

   I felt a pang of sorrow in my chest at realizing he’s never had ice cream before. Carefully glancing around the table I realize that none of them have probably ever tried it. I look down at my food with a small frown and scoop some onto my fork. Taking a thoughtful bite, I realize that there’s probably a lot more things they have never tried or experienced due to their mutation. Making a mental note to start hosting occasional dinners at my house and to plan out many more exciting things for the boys I push the sad thoughts to the back of my mind. Right now it was Mikey’s birthday; a happy day. Not a day to be sad and contemplative on.

   “Well, I’m sure whatever she picks out’ll be delicious.” I smile at him and decided to for-go letting him know that I will be calling April to make sure she buys the 3 flavored tub of Ice Cream they sell at Wegmans. The gallon tub is a split between Strawberry, Vanilla, and Chocolate ice cream. That way they all can try the classics at least. “I should warn ya though. I’m a master gamer.” I shoot him a confident smirk.

“Bold words for someone who has never let me watch them play.” He shoots back with an easy smile.

“And give you all of my secrets?” I laugh, “Not a chance.” We playfully banter back and forth, drawing the others into the teasing one by one.

   Once breakfast was finished, we all made our way to the exit, the boys picking up their boards on the way out. “Here Cupcake.” I laugh as Mikey handed me a board, “I can’t, in good conscious, let you keep skating on a penny board.” He ignores my indignant ‘Hey!’ and continues on. “A radical dudette like you needs to learn to pop a few ollies at least!”

   With a smile and a roll of my eyes I defend my precious penny board. “I’ve already told ya sugarcube, I’m just no good at tricks! Besides, I’m more of a laidback skater. I just like to cruise, ya know?”

Raph snorted, “Sounds like someone’s afraid to break a nail.”

   I shoot him a mock glare and wag my finger threateningly. “Ya better watch it now. Those are fightin words.”

Raph laughed, “Yes they are.”

With a put-upon sigh I nod my head solemnly. “I suppose there ain’t no choice but for me ta do a few tricks and show you posers up then huh?” By the end I’m grinning up at them and Leo laughs.

“Oh, you’ll be eating those words soon Rachel.”

I shrug, “Maybe I will, maybe I won’t.”

   And with that we were off. I had to get used to a regular board and the guys all tried to teach me several different tricks. It had only been 3 hours but my knees were raw and bloody, my hands a bright red, and several bruises were littered all over my form. I had only managed to land an ollie once and I was barely able to keep my balance. I learned a Chinese nollie which was surprisingly easy for me to pick up, a trick that Raph called ‘Boneless’ seeing as how I couldn’t actually hop over and obstacles yet, and a nose pick-up. They tired to teach me how to hippie jump but after completely shredding my right arm up by falling non-stop they gave up and taught me a rail stand instead which, once I got down, was actually really fun to do. By the fourth hour I was exhausted and sweating buckets so when my mom texted me to check up on me I used that as my escape.

“Hey guys!” The turtles slowed down and turned to me. “My mom wants me to come home for lunch.” I pout. “So I’ve gotta head home.” Picking up the board I offer an apologetic smile, “I should be back in an hour or two though.”

“Awwww!!!!” Mikey skated over and pulled me into a hug. “I’m gonna miss you Gummybear!”

Smiling I hug him back, “I’ll miss you too Sugarcube.”

After they escorted me to a near by manhole I said my goodbyes and walked off. Once I was a block or two away I pulled out my phone again and stared down at my mom’s text.

Momma Bear: Having fun?

With a smile I type up a reply.

Me: Yeah, just got done skating. We’re on our way back to their house to take a break and get some water.

Not a second later my phone buzzed.

Momma Bear: Okay! Be safe, keep me updated.

Me: Will do! Love you!!!!

Momma Bear: Love you too! :* :* :*

Pocketing my phone, I wait for the signal and crossed the street.

~~~

   The day was winding to an end and Mikey was announced the gaming champion with me being a close second. April had brought the requested ice cream and all the boys tried it. Donnie’s favorite ended up being Strawberry, Leo favoring Vanilla but saying Strawberry was a close second, and both Raph and Mikey loved the chocolate.

   Presents happened after the pizza and ice cream. April getting him the new Mario Cart game, Raph offering up a new, gorgeous pair of nun chucks he hand crafted, Leo sliding over a few comic books he had managed to salvage that Mikey had been adamantly looking for, and Donnie showing him a new hover-board he created. Mikey received all of his gifts with ecstatic enthusiasm showering everyone with ‘thank you’s and praises as he went. When he got to mine he squealed and began to dance around the sitting area; the gift not even fully unwrapped yet.

I grinned in relief at the clear approval while everyone else laughed at Mikey’s antics. “Well, what is it ya knucklehead?!”

   Plopping back down Mikey tore the rest of the wrapping paper off and held up the new paint set with an excited grin. “It’s new oil paints!!!! And they’re one of the good brands that I watched a review on!” He flipped it over and began rattling off the color names and gushing to me about how after he practices with them that his first ‘official’ oil painting will be for me.

I laugh as he squeezes me in a hug, “Aww, that’s awfully sweet of ya Mikey!” I hug him back happily. “I’m glad you like it!”

“Like it?! I love it!” I laugh some more as he re-inspects all of his gifts, thanking everyone all over again.

   A few hours later, April had gone home and it was pitch black outside. Everyone was relaxing on the couch, getting ready to go up top for some fresh air. “Ahh! I wish this day could last forever!” Mikey stretched big as he stood, looking at his pile of presents on the table happily.

Excited to finally reveal my big surprise I stood up and grinned at him. “It may not last forever, but I know how to keep this party going for a little bit longer if you’re up for it?”

Smiling excitedly Mikey began to bounce around with new-found energy. “Up for it?! I’m rearing to go! What is it?!”

“Ah-ah-ah!” I waggle my finger at him. “It’s a surprise!” I jog over to the entrance and pick up the board I was using earlier today. “Come on! Let’s go!”

The others just as excited and curious as Mikey follow my lead and grab their boards before heading up to the surface. They follow me about half an hour out, Mikey whining the whole way about how the suspense was killing him. “Are we there now?!”

“Mikey I swear to god!”

   Raph looked ready to strangle Mikey, birthday boy or not, when we finally arrived. “Here we are!” Jogging up to the darkened area I gesture to the opening in the torn fence. “Come on!” I duck in, the guys following after me. I run up and spin around, “Great right?!” I make my way off the side as they eyed the wrecked flooring and crumbling wall-like structures in judgment.

“Uh-Rachel.” Donnie speaks up. “Not to sound mean but what exactly is so exciting about a trashed parkinglo-aaaaaa-” Donnie trailed off as I clicked the button to turn on all the fairy lights I had rigged around the place.

   The previous dark and trashy looking dump was now dully lit up to reveal on old, abandoned skate park. “Woooaaah!” Mikey rushed forward and spun around every which way to try and take it all in. What previously looked like old decaying walls and mounds of trash now revealed itself to be decaying ramps and rusty rails. Further in there was a small pit with a few holes in it and there was some stray trash littering the edges of the park.

   “I tried to clean up as much of the trash and ruble as I could.” I walked up to the gaping boys with a timid smile. “It’s not much but, when Mikey said how he wished he could skate in a real skatepark I thought- Hey, I know an abandoned skate park not far from here! – and well..” I gestured to the park. “Ta-da?”

The guys quickly dog-pilled me into a hug. “You did all of this.. for me?”

I smiled, “Of course! You deserve this and so much more!” I snuggle deeper into the hug, “You all do.”

They pull away with watery smiles, “How’d you even manage this?” Donnie asked. “Mikey only told you about that this morning.”

I grinned nervously, “So- uh- funny story.” I rub the back of my neck. “Momma never asked me to come home for lunch.”

“Rachel!”

“No wonder ya were so hungry at dinner.”

Mikey pulled me into another hug, “Thank you Rachel.”

I smile, “Of course Sugarcube.” Patting his shell I pull away, “Now lets see what you can do in a real skate park.”

With a grin Mikey smacked a kiss on my cheek and hopped on his board, “Watch and learn!”

~~~

   It was only a month later that I got with the boys again to celebrate another birthday. This one being Leonardo’s. I smile at the red circle on my calendar, curving around the date August 14th. I quickly sent Leo a happy birthday text before making my way to the kitchen where my parents were getting ready to leave. They had both taken the weekend off to go on a hiking trip and to ‘talk’ as my mom put it.

Noticing me in the doorway she began to fret and mess with my clothes and hair. “Be good, don’t open the door for strangers, don’t leave the windows open or the cats will get out, text me every day-”

“Momma, momma, calm down.” I smile and take her hands into mine, squeezing them. “This isn’t my first rodeo. Y’all have left me home alone plenty of times!”

   “That was Georgia sweetie. This is New York City! 'S crawling with criminals and scumbags.” My dad pitched in, walking over to pull me into a bearhug. “Now I’m not sayin you can’t go out and hang with yer friends but try ta stay in as much as possible. And no goin' out at night while we’re gone!” He added sternly, giving me a firm look.

I sighed heavily, “Okay daddy! I won’t!” Shaking my head I smile at them, “Geeze, no faith in me.”

Mom smiled and gently kissed my forehead. “I love you baby, stay safe okay? And I mean it, text everyday.”

I smiled back, “I love you too momma, and I promise I will.”

She headed for the door and dad gave me another hug before also bending down to give me a kiss. “Love you sweetheart, be smart, stay safe.”

“I will, love you too daddy! Drive safe!!”

“We will!”

   I waved as they left and sat by the window to watch them walk down the hallway. Running over the fire escape I climb to the roof and watch from my vantage point as my parents exit the building and load their suitcases into the car. They hop in moms SUV and sit there for a few minutes before pulling out. I only head back inside when they disappeared around a building.

Making my way to the kitchen I make note of everything we have before writing a list of the ingredients I need to make Leo’s birthday dinner. I decided to make rice and curry for dinner and a vanilla cake with strawberry icing for desert.

~~~

   I had swung by the lair to do some morning mediation and yoga with the boys (per Leo's request) before sitting and drinking tea with Leo as we all laughed and talked about past memories. (Although I was mostly listening to stories of them in their younger years.) Leo explained that he just liked to sit and enjoy his family time on his birthday's so they were always very laid back.

Raph had called him soft for that while Mikey and Donnie cooed and hugged him, proclaiming their undying love for him.

Smiling I excused myself at three o'clock so I could get started on Leo's cake and birthday dinner which he insisted on thanking me profusely for on my way out. By the time Splinter and the boys showed up at six the food was ready and the table was set.

"Hey guys! Welcome in!!" I grinned nervously as they ducked into my room through my window.

   "Woooah!! Nice place Gummybear." They all looked around my room curiously causing me to blush. While I made sure my room was clean my bed was still unmade and I suddenly felt very self-conscious of my anime and gaming posters up on the wall and prayed they didn't notice my painting in the corner. Although, judging by the curious look Leo sent it's way I don't think my prayer was answered.

   "Thanks hun." I gestured to my door, "The kitchen's this way." They happily followed me to the kitchen and immediately compliments about the smell began pouring out of their mouths. I laughed nervously and thanked them, "You're gonna hav'ta taste my cookin before you compliment it too much though."

"I'm sure it will taste delicious Rachel." Master Splinter comforted, patting my arm delicately.

   "Thanks Master Splinter." I gesture to the table, "Go ahead 'n pick a seat out, I'll grab the food." I quickly move the hot pots onto the table and make sure everyone has a drink. "Okay Leo, you're the birthday boy so you get the first serving." I gave him a teasing grin as I plated the food before moving to everyone else.

Once we all had some they chimed, "Thanks for the food!" And began to dig in. Instantly happy sounds were made.

Laughing, I took a bite myself. "So I'm guessing y'all like it?"

"Like it?!" Mikey exclaimed. "I love it!" He then began to shovel bigger bites into his mouth.

"This is delicious Rachel. Just as I expected." I smiled in thanks at Master Splinter.

"I'm glad y'all like it."

"This is amazing Rachel. Thank you." Leo's voice is sincere and he looks at me with thankful eyes.

I huff out an embarrassed breath, "Aww, shucks." I place one hand on my cheek and wave the other at Leo earning a round of laughter.

   Within an hour the rice and curry I made was gone and we were all spread around the living room, Transformers playing per Leo's request. Master Splinter shooting me a secretive smile. We got through the first two movies when Splinter announced it was almost time to go. "Aww, but- but can't we watch one more?! Pleeeasseeeee?!"

   I laugh as Mikey gets down on his knees in front of Master Splinter to beg. "It's okay Mikey, you can always come over an' finish 'em later." His eyes light up and he's on me in a second. Hugging the life out of me while chanting thank you. Smiling as he set me back down I grin up at them, "Sides, Master Splinter said almost time to leave." Ducking into the kitchen I return with a vanilla cake with strawberry icing. Master Splinter produced everyone's gifts from his hiding spot causing the boys to cheer. I lit the candles and gestured to Leo, "Make a wish Big Blue." Leo blinked at the nickname but smiled and thought for a minute before closing his eyes and blowing out the candles.

We cheer and clap before divvying up the cake. As per tradition, Leo cuts the first slice for himself and soon we're all eating and chatting happily. In true Mikey fashion, the youngest turtle begins to bounce around eagerly as soon as he finished eating.

"Come on Leo! Let's do presents!! The suspense is killing me!" He drapes himself over Raph in a dramatic fashion but the red banded turtle only shoves Mikey off him with a raised brow.

   Leo sighs in annoyance but the quirk of his lips gives away his true feelings. "Alright Mikey, I'm done eating anyway." Mikey cheers and quickly sits up in crisscross-applesauce fashion, knees bouncing in anticipation. Reaching for the pile of presents Leo picks up a small black and blue box.

"That's mine." Donnie smiles.

Leos shoots Donnie a small grin and happily tears the present open. He pulls out a small oval shaped lamp and turns it every which way to examine it. "Is this a sun lamp?" He grins a little wider and begins to fiddle with the bendable extension.

   "Yeah, I know you get cold easy so I made you one for your room when you're meditating or sleeping." Donnie reaches over and begins to point at the buttons and switches. "This turns it on. This adjusts the temperature. Oh, and this one is a pre programmed timer. Click once for 10 minutes, twice for 30 and three times for an hour."

Leo laughed lightly and pulled Donnie into a one-armed side hug, "Thanks Otōto." Gently setting it to the side he reaches for the next present which is a large grey and yellow flat square.

"OOOO!! ThAt'S MiNe!!"

   We all laugh at Michelangelo's excitement. With a smile Leo gently peels back the wrapping, feeling the soft texture of a canvas under the paper. Once he fully exposes the artwork his mouth falls open into a small 'o'. Everyone leans into to get a good look at the painting and several awed and appreciative noises escaped the group. "This is amazing Mikey!"

The orange clad turtle grins in sheepish pride. "Glad you like it bro! Rachel let me borrow her watercolors to make it."

"I love it."

Raph reaches over and rubs his hand over Mikey's scalp playfully. "Good job knucklehead."

"You truly live up to your namesake my son."

Mikey laughed and waved his hand. "Awww, stop!"

   Laughing Leo gave Mikey a hug and gently propped the watercolor painting up so the beautifully painted portrait of their family stared back at them. Giving it one last appreciative once over Leo moved onto the next present which happened to be mine. It was a thick cylinder shaped object wrapped in sparkly blue and silver wrapping paper.

"That one would be mine." I say with a crooked grin and slightly raised hand.

Smiling Leo tore into it and pulled out an extra large, thick yoga mat. "A mat!!" I laughed at how excited he seemed about a strip of foam.

"Unroll it, there's more." Eyebrow ridges furrowing, Leo unravels the mat only for an extra large roller to fall into his lap. "'S for your muscles. I ordered the biggest one they had fer yer giant ass."

I laughed along side the brothers as Leo messed with the mat and roller. "This is perfect. Thank you Rachel." Leo pulled me into a hug and moved onto his final gift. "Gee, I wonder who this is from."

Raphael rolled his eyes. "Can it Fearless. Just open it."

   Laughing, Leo pulled the reddish brown paper off the small box. Cracking it open he reached in and pulled out three different sized stones. They were thin and rectangular in shape. "No way! New whetstones, I've been needing some!" He ran his fingers over the stones and flipped them around.

"Well now you 'ave some. Happy Berthday Leo."

Leo grinned, "Thanks Raph." He set his present down and reached over to grapple a protesting Raphael into a hug.

   Laughing loudly, an over excited Mikey lunges at the two causing them to topple over. Grinning, Donnie stands up and simply falls forward onto the dog pile and soon all four brothers are laughing and rolling around in a weird hugging embrace. The hilarious display causes me to laugh so hard that I fall onto my side.

Out of nowhere a big green hand wraps around my ankle and suddenly I'm yanked into the middle of the group. Still laughing, we all sit up and simply enjoy the warm embrace. "Thanks for this you guys. I love it."

Smiling up at Leo, I watch as Mikey leans over and presses his forehead to Leos with a big grin. "Anytime onii-chan. We love you."

Donnie laughs as Raph groans loudly and soon we're all wrestling again. Overall, I'd say it was a successful birthday.

~~~

   It was late October and starting to get chillier as the colder months got closer. Donnie's birthday was in a few days and I was desperately wracking my brain for something to get him. Staring blankly at computer parts that I didn't understand I huffed. "And I thought Leo was hard to shop for."

   Walking out of the Micro Center, I head left down the shopping strip and pop into a few clothing stores. I was just passing a small Harbor Freights when a big blue case that was propped open caught my eye. Walking up to the window I see an assortment of shiny silver tools laid out. It was clear they were supposed to be tastefully spilling out of the case despite the specifically tailored slots built into it to hold them. The display claimed it was the best universal tool set for any big project.

Glancing down at the price tag I closed my eyes and mummered, "Goodbye new boots and Olive Garden lasagna." Heading inside I purchase a can of purple spray paint and the 120 dollar tool set. "Damn it Donnie, yer lucky yer cute."

   Jogging across the parking lot I load the few purchases I made into my SUV. I glance around the shopping strip to see if there are any other stores I want to visit before leaving. My eyes land on a T.J Maxx & HomeGoods and I shrug, "Might as well." That very decision is what led me to buy a second (significantly cheaper) present for Donnie. Sliding into the driver seat I set the mug warmer in my passenger seat with a sigh. 'I know gift givin' is my love language. But I'm gonna go homeless one of these days.' With a rueful shake of my head I start the car and pull out of the parking lot, oh well.

~~~

It was the morning of the 22nd and I was waiting outside for the brothers to come pick me up. I had already sent a 'good morning' text to Donnie and was in the middle of making my morning hot chocolate when he texted back.

Big D: Thank you! :)

Big D: Do you want to get some Chick Fil-A breakfast with us?

Me: Hell yes!!!!

Me: :DDD

Big D: I had a feeling you'd say that. We're otw. See you soon. :)

   Needless to say, I promptly turned off the stove and rushed to get dressed. Nothing was better than waking up to a chicken biscuit and sweet tea and that is exactly what I was about to get. Honking alerted me to their arrival as they turned onto my street. Grinning widely I waved enthusiastically.

They slowed to a stop in front of me and the driver side window rolls down. "Need a lift?" Donnie rests his arm on the door and grins cheekily at me.

I hummed and tapped my chin in mock thought. "I dunno, momma always warned me about getting into strange cars with boys like you." 

I grinned as he laughed and made my way to the side door. It popped open and Mikey was there to offer me hand hand. "Milady."

I laughed, "Why thank you!" Hoisting myself up into the renovated van I shoot a grin at Raph. "What's poppin' Red?" Raph quirked an unimpressed brow at me. "What?!" I laughed, leaning against the green fuzzy carpeting they had lined the inside with.

"What's poppin', really?" He shook his head in amusement. I went to defend myself when I was picked up and dropped in Raphael's lap. 

Mikey, who had closed the door, was shuffling around in the small space and turned to where his left side was taking up the space I was previously in. "Sorry gummybear, there's not a whole lotta room in here." He offered me a sheepish grin.

   I shrug and place my hands on top of Raph's who had slid his arms around my waist to keep me from falling. "S'okay sugarcube, y'all are basically walking skyscrapers. You need yer space." I shook from the force of Raph's scoff. "Oh I'm sorry Raph." I crane my neck back to give him a playful glare. "Did you say something? I can't hear you all the way up there."

Mikey exploded with laughter and Raph grinned before leaning down, his lips pressing against my ear. "How bout now? Can you hear me now short stack?" I feel my face heat up as Raph grins against my ear. His hot breath fanning against my ear and cheek.

"Rachel, we're here!" Leo's voice breaks the moment and with a squeak I launch myself out of the surprised lap of Raphael and quickly duck past Mikey towards Leo and Donnie.

Both boys blink in surprise as my head suddenly rushes between them. "Yes-Hi-I'm here." I laugh nervously and brush some hair out of my face. "Sorry, you guys got the list?"

"Uh.. yeah." Leo hands it over, his neat scrawl filling the small piece of scrap paper.

   "Wonderful!" I snatch the paper out of his hands and move towards the door, my face still burning red. "I'll be right back!" I chance one last look at Raphael who is still smirking at me with his ridiculously large biceps bulging out from his arms being crossed. Feeling my face burn brighter I quickly turn away and hop out, practically running for the doors of the fast food chain.

   Due to my stupid nervous habit I was grinning like a loon when I ran into the Chick Fil-A. Rushing up to the line I patiently waited knowing that this was going to take forever. Leg bouncing, I looked around the dining room and watched couples, families, and workers alike eat their breakfast. I sighed as the line moved ever so slowly forward. "Come on." I whine, glancing out the window to see the turtles unique van parked and taking up two parking spaces. I start to quietly snicker at the sight when a voice sounds from behind me.

"This morning traffic is crazy huh?" I turn around and see a boy around my age giving me a small grin. "Who knew so many people would want Chick Fil-A this early in the morning?"

I laugh nervously a nod, "Yeah, they should just sell breakfast all day. It would make life so much easier."

"Right?!" He laughed and stepped closer, "My names Dawson."

   My smile became tight with nerves, my social anxiety not appreciating the extended contact or close proximity with the stranger. "..Stella." The name was a childhood fixation after I learned I was part Italian from my dad's side. I looked up what 'star' was in Italian and tried to make Stella my new nickname all throughout middle school.

   Dawson continued to try and talk to me when I was called up to place my order. Laughing in relief I rush over to the cashier and place the large to-go order, scanning my app for the points as I nervously glace at Dawson who who placing his order with the cashier next to me.

"Will that be all?" The nice lady who was taking my order asked.

"Yes, thank you."

"My pleasure. Your name will be called when your order is ready." She gestured to the area I would receive my food before calling out for the next customer.

   I wait by the condiments and napkin dispenser nervously, leg bouncing as I pull out my phone to look busy. Pulling up my texts with the boys I scroll through our old messages when I feel a presence slide up next to me. Swearing internally I glance up only to see Dawson smiling down at me.

"So, what brings you to Chick Fil-A at 8 in the morning?"

"Uh.. the food." I laugh awkwardly. "It's my friends birthday so we're celebrating."

"Oh, nice. How old are they?"

   "He's 17." Dawson looks like he's going to say more when my name get's called out. "Oh, welp, that's me. Nice talking to you!" With that pathetic excuse of an exit I rush over to the worker and take the big bag out of his hands. Setting it down on the counter I take the drinks as well before moving off to the side to make sure the order was right. Once I confirmed that I had all the sauces and that the food and drinks were right I piled everything into my hands and booked it for the door.

   Running up to the van I called out to Raph and Mikey. "I got the food! Hurry up and open the doors please!" I glance behind me and see that Dawson is only just grabbing his order from one of the workers. The door slides open slightly and I quickly pass Mikey the food before practically crawling into the van.

"Woah!" Mikey lifts his foot up as I crawl around him towards Raph.

"You good short stack?" Raph bent over and hauled me up into his lap.

I laugh weakly, "Yeah. My social anxiety is just spiking right now."

"Social anxiety?" Raph said dubiously. "I thought you liked meetin' new people."

"No, I hate that part. It's tha part that comes after it that I like." The boys laugh at this as Donnie starts the car back up and pulls out. I heave a heavy sigh of relief as I settle more comfortably into Raph's lap. "So, what's the plan for today boys?"

"Oh, well D usually likes to go dumpster diving for parts and watch science documentaries. Sometimes we play video games or rewatch Doctor Who but this time.." Mikey trails off with a mischievous grin.

"Mikey!" Donnie scolds, glaring at him via the rearview mirror.

"What?"

"It's nothing Rachel, just a little surprise we have planned."

"Surprise? For me?? But it's Donnie's birthday!"

The boys laughed, "Don't worry, it'll be a surprise for him too."

I give Leo a doubtful stare as Donnie lets out a put-upon sigh. "Trust me Rachel, all I know is we're going somewhere later tonight. I've tried to get them to cough up their scheme but even Mikey wouldn't budge."

"Hey!"

"It's not a scheme brainiac." Raph rolls his eyes, "It's a birthday surprise, show some gratitude why don't ch'ya?"

   Donnie and Raph begin to bicker as we pull into the abandoned subway tunnel next to their lair. We all greet Master Splinter, Leo handing over what I'm guessing to be the egg white sandwich to him. I glance around a notice that some Halloween decorations have been put up. Eyeing the paper mache pumpkins stuck to random parts of the wall a question comes to mind. "Hey," I turn to Mikey who was closest to me. "How did y'all choose your birthdays? Did Donnie choose his because of Halloween?"

   Mikey blinked in surprise, clearly not expecting the question. Donnie walked up, having stopped bickering with Raph to answer my question. "Well actually, I choose mine because today is also the birthday of George Beadle. He's an American biologist who won the Nobel Prize in 1958 for discovering the role of genes in regulating biochemical events within cells. Fascinating really because-"

"Can it Donnie, she asked why we choose it. Not for a lecture on biology."

   "Knock it off Raph, no being mean to the birthday boy, remember?" Leo walks up and turns to me. "When deciding out birthdays Mikey actually wanted his birthday to be on Halloween. A fight broke out about who got which holiday and Master Splinter came up with the rule that no-one can have their birthday on a pre-existing holiday."

"Oh." That made sense actually, I can only imagine how many children would choose Christmas as their birthday if they got the chance. "So, did y'all just pick at random or does everyone have a reason like Donnie's?"

Mikey jumped up with his hand in the air. "Oo, I'll go! I chose my birthday because that was the day I got my chucks!" Mikey took them out and did some fancy tricks before shooting me a cheeky grin. "Before that I had to practice with wooden ones."

"I chose mine because the new Space Heroes movie was set to air that day." Leo said. Smiling, I turn to Raph who stubbornly remained silent until Mikey elbowed him.

"I.. I chose mine because of the snow a decorative lights. I liked to watch them as a kid." Raph shrugged and looked away, clearly embarrassed.

"That's so awesome! I can't imagine being able to choose your own birthday. I feel like I would have just chosen Christmas in the hopes of getting double presents."

   The boys laugh and Leo leads the way to the pit, Mikey flipping down onto the sofa. "Donnie wants to watch a new documentary that came out. We'll probably open presents after, order some pizza and do some dumpster diving on the way to get it." He tosses the remote to Donnie and claims is own spot on the couch. "We can't go to the surprise until six."

"Oh?" I raised a brow and leaned in toward Leo. "A time frame is there?"

Leo smirked, "Maybe, or that's when the sun is low enough to head out."

   I narrow my eyes at him and hum, leaning back. "Shh, it's on!" I turn to see the opening screen to a documentary, Raph walking up with a bowl of popcorn. Shuffling over, Raph squeezes between me and Mikey, throwing an arm over the back of the couch and setting the popcorn bowl in his lap.

   Sitting back I kick my shoes off and tuck my feet underneath me; leaning into Raph's side as I grab a handful of popcorn. The doc lasted about two and a half hours. Once the credits started rolling Donnie began to excitedly commentate and recap what we had just watched; adding his own opinions and theories to it. I turned to Raph and Mikey who both seemed just as lost as me. Leo, the supportive trooper that he was, nodded along and agreed to everything Donnie was saying as if he understood what was being said.

Raph grunted and stood up with a big stretch. "Alright Don, ease up on the nerdy spiel. We still got presents ta open, pizza ta order, dumpsters to loot, and a surprise to see."

"I'll grab the presents and order the pizza bros!" Mikey was already vaulting over the couch and running to the kitchen before anyone could get a word in edge wise.

   Sighing, Leo got up and gestured for the other two to follow. "Put your shoes on Rachel. We're going to gear up. After Don opens his gifts we'll head out and Raph or Mikey will carry you with us." Nodding I slide my Vans back on and tuck my shirt and sweater into my pants to lessen the chance of me getting cold when I'm inevitably flying through the air during the chilly October night that New York brings.

   After the boys gear up Donnie sits back down to open everyone's presents. Leo got him a a few medical books he managed to scavenge, Raph had pilfered a worn C.D of the first 2 seasons of Doctor Who, and Mikey produced a used lab coat that he fixed up and embroidered with varying designs. "Mad scientist Dr. D needs to look the part!" He had claimed with a cheeky grin. Donnie opened my gift last and pulled us all into hugs, thanking everyone and gushing over each object. After putting his gifts away we all gathered at the lairs exit; Raph tossing me over his shoulder as Mikey told Leo that the pizza should be ready by now.

   The next 3 hours fly by as we all joke, laugh, eat pizza, and raid several dumpster throughout NYC. We had to make several trips back to the lair with all the stuff Donnie wanted to salvage. It was on our 4th run that I spoke up. "Alright y'all, I don't know when this little sur'prise is supposed to be ready but I definitely need a shower before hand."

Leo checked the time and nodded. "Mikey will take you home and wait for you. We'll all regroup on top of Central Park Tower and make our way to the surprise then."

With a unanimous agreement Mikey scoops me up. "Let us go mon'cheri, ow'er carriage awaits!" I laugh loudly at Mikey's terrible French accent as he bounces towards the exit. "If we hu'ray we can make ow'er escape! Haw haw haw!!"

~~~

After regrouping on top of the Central Park Tower I'm handed over to Donnie so the others can lead the way to their super secret surprise. We land on a building facing the New York Hall of Science and Leo turns to us with a smirk. "Surprise."

"No way... Leo!" Donnie quickly but gently sets me down as he rushes to the ledge to peer over at the museum.

Raph and Mikey are snickering at Donnie's reaction and the confusion must have been evident on my face because it's Raph who slings an arm over my shoulder to explain. "We're gonna bust in and see tha place."

"No one is busting anything!" Leo calls, but I'm too flabbergasted to care.

"We're what?!" I whisper shouted. Blood starts rushing to my ears as a wave of excitement and adrenaline fill me up. It had been a long time sense I had broken and rules, not to mention laws. Clearly my body missed the thrill.

"Leo never lets us do things like this. Says it's too risky," Raph rolls his eyes and squeezes me closer. "You don't mind though, right?"

The question seems to activate Leo's mother-hen tendencies because he's on me in an instant. "If you don't want to you don't have to Rachel! You can wait here or Mikey can take you home. We'd never make you-"

   "Woah! Pump the breaks Big Blue. I ain't upset." I laugh and offer him a sheepish grin. "To be completely honest I'm rather excited. After the last time I did something like this I was grounded for a year and just kind of... stopped?" I shrugged, "I dunno, guess I decided it wasn't worth the trouble. I've missed the thrill though. Let's do it!" I offer a fist bump which is weakly returned.

"Oh-ho-ho, last time?" Raph grins down at me. "I didn't think you had it in ya short stack!"

"Yea! What'd you do?!"

"Don't matter." I easily deflect, ducking out of Raph's hold to approach the ledge next to Donnie. "What matters is that we end this night with a bang! Afterall, it is Don's birthday; and I have it on good authority that mad scientists love to make things go boom."

   The brothers laugh while Leo hollers about staying quiet and definitely not making anything explode. "Chillax Leo! We're ninja, we got this!" Mikey rushes up and shakes Donnie's shoulders in excitement before flipping down to the Science Hall, Raph a step behind him. Leo groans and rushes to follow, leaving Donnie to scoop me up and bring up the rear.

   I watch as they work in unison, popping open a vent shaft and whispering about exhibits. Mikey pulling a map out of his shell with a secretive smile and Raph grinning softly the whole time. Taking a deep breath I ingrain the moment in my mind, wishing desperately that I could take a photo of this moment.

   I've known the boys for barely a year and yet I feel like we've always been together. Their personalities are so wildly different but somehow so very similar that it boggles the mind. Their bond as brothers has never stood out so starkly to me and part of me curls with jealously. Wishing that I was just as close with my own brothers as they were with each other. But when Donnie turns to me with an eager smile and an offered hand, I snuff the feeling out and replace it with the love that I feel for them all.

   I shouldn't be so petty. They've had it so rough, put up with so much, it's no wonder their bond is so interwoven. Reaching out I grasp Donnie's hand and let him lead me to the vent shaft. 'No,' I smile, 'tonight is not the time for jealousy. Tonight we celebrate. Celebrate Donnie's life. Celebrate a brothers bond. Celebrate that I get to be apart of their story; if only for a little bit.'

Donnie scoops me back up into his arms. "You ready?"

I grin up at him, "You bet ch'ya."

'God, please let it be longer than just a little bit.'

Chapter Text

   It'd been a slow couple of weeks. My parents were gone more often then not and when they were both home at the same time they usually fought. Nothing I wasn't used to, but no less irritating. I spent most of my time not in school down in the lair. The guys were surprisingly eager to help me with any homework and between the five of us we usually knocked it out pretty fast. Especially if Donatello decided to help instead of laugh at us. 

   I was still training with Master Splinter regularly and was debating canceling my gym membership in light of how intense the training sessions were. Part of me felt that it was a waste of money now while the other part still enjoyed going. Even if I never lifted as hard as I used to anymore.

Sighing, I roll off the sofa and peer around the common space, trying to find anything to do. Leo and Raph were in the dojo sparring, Mikey was in his room painting, and Donnie was holed up in his lab again. Every attempt to enter it was blocked.

"Top secret stuff Rachel! You can look when it's ready."

   From what I've gathered with Mikeys ramblings, it was some kind of present for April. I had no idea why I wasn't allowed to see it but Donnie remained steadfast in his refusal. To add insult to injury he also stole my phone this morning when I came in and has yet to return it; so I'm stuck staring at the ceiling in boredom. 

   Heaving out a big sigh, I swing my legs off the couch and grumble to myself, "A present for April? Why does Don need my phone for it? I didn't even give him my consent." Glaring at the dirty cement ground I raise my eyes to the door of Don's lab. 'Okay, so maybe I'm still a bit... defensive when concerning April. But can you blame me? Strolling in like she owns the place everytime she needs something. She doesn't even hang with the guys all that much!!' Pausing, I blink in surprise, 'Well actually, that's probably a good thing. She is an adult. Hanging around a group of underaged boys shouldn't really be her top priority.' Listening to the various noises coming from Donnies lab I go back to glaring. '....I still don't like her though.'

Leo's voice behind me startles me, "Geeze Rachel, what'd Donnie's lab doors do to you?"

I turn to see Raph snickering and Leo grinning with a quirked brow. I huff and turn away from them, "He stole my phone and the little rat won't let me in." Realizing what I said I give the two a sheepish grin, "Err, no offense ta Master Splin'er."

Raph snorted, "Yer fine short stack. Instead of glaring at his lab doors why don't you join me 'n Leo?"

I perk up at that, "Join y'all? What, like sparring?"

Raph laughed and Leo shook his head, "No, we are finished sparring for the day. We were going to rinse off and scout around some of the abandoned sewer pipes."

Deciding to forego being offended by Raph's amusement by my suggestion, I focus on what Leo said. "Y'all are gonna explore some abandoned sewer pipes?! Count me in!" I grin up at them and Raph snickers at the constipated look Leo gets.

"Scouting. We're going to go scouting some of the old sewer pipes."

I wave my hand dismissively, "Ta-may-toe, ta-ma-toe, I'm in."

Rolling his eyes he and Raph start to walk away. "Get ready then, we should be back down in 10 minutes."

   Nodding my head I jump up and start to stretch out my limbs. Twisting side to side, bending down to touch my toes, I drop into a crouch and stretch out my hamstrings. I do a few more stretches before running over to the tunnel that was considered the front door. Grabbing the pair of tennis shoes I leave here for such occasions, I slip them on and lace them up. My two karambits Master Splinter has been training me on are neatly hung up next to the rest of the guy's weapons. I happily grab them and twirl them around briefly before sheathing them in their designated spots on my belt. 

Humming to myself I venture back over to Donnie's lab doors and bang my fist on them a few times. "Donnie! I'm heading out with Raph and Leo! I need my phone back!!"

There was some shuffling noises and muttered cursing as Donnie undoubtedly bumped into a few things before the door was cracked open slightly. "You're going out? Where?"

I glare at Don and place my hands on my hips, "Exploring old tunnels. Now give me my phone you thief." 

Donnie sniffed at me, "If you need something just use Leo's or Raph's T-Shell. I'm still working on your phone."

"Working on my phone?!"

Donnie eeped and called out, "Spoilers!" Before shutting the door in my face. 

   I was just about to throw myself at the damn thing when I was picked up by the scruff and hauled away from the door. "Damn it Raph, put me down!" I reach back to claw at his hand but he only snickers and doesn't drop me until we're back at the front of the lair. Leo is waiting with crossed arms and an amused smile. ‘Jerk.’ I turn to glare up at a grinning Raph, "When are you going to stop doing that?"

"Never!" He barks out with a laugh. Clearly pleased with himself at getting a rise out of me.

   "Enough." Leo cuts in before me and Raph can start really trading barbs. "Now that everyone is here, we can start. A few of Don's sensors have picked up some strange activity in a few nearby abandoned drainage pipes. While he suspected some stray animals to be the root cause, the activity has been picking up. It could be nothing but it's better to be safe than sorry. Stay silent, follow my lead, and alert me if you spot any strange activities or signs."

   Hiding my surprise at the fact that this seems to be a real, semi-serious (if small) mission, I chime an obedient 'Hai' with Raph and quickly follow their lead. I have no delusions of grandeur, and am very aware of my smaller size and lack of protective, bullet proof shell. While I am training with the intent on being able to be included on some missions, I have no desire to be a full-fledged ninja that goes out every night fighting crime. I'll happily leave that to my 'roid jacked mutants. 

   I do my best to keep a steady flow of air through my nose while also keeping my footfalls light. With the way Raph and Leo fly through the air, graceful, silent, and deadly; it's easy to feel like I'm slowing them down and being too noisy. I try to remind myself that they've been training literally all their lives while I've not even had a full year of it.

   We slow to a stop and Leo glances back at me and somehow seems to pick up on my thoughts without even trying. "You're doing good Rachel. This is the first tunnel Don wants us to investigate so we'll be taking it slower through here. Be sure to comb the area carefully." I offer Leo a smile, appreciative of the small encouragement without him lingering on it too long. 

   Raph frowns and bumps shoulders with me, his own silent belief conveyed in the simple interaction. Feeling reassured I elbow him back and follow Leo into the dark tunnel. We skillfully climb up the intricate piping and begin to work our way further in. Leo makes a few silent hand gestures to Raph who nods and jumps off to the right. Turning fully to me, Leo does a few simple gestures and speaks quietly, "I'm going left, Raph right, you stay centered." Doing my best to memorize the gestures with his words I nod and watch him silently leap away. 

   Taking a steadying breath, I begin a crouching gait and inch my way forwards. My eyes easily adjusting to the darkened tunnel, I strain them to peer into even the darkest corners for a sign of life or past life. I'm about half way through the tunnel when I notice a torn cloth hanging on a busted pipe a few feet below me. I look around for any sign of the boys but find nothing. Damn ninjas. Breathing a quiet sign I drop down onto my stomach and wedge my feet between the two pipes I've been walking on. Using a move I've done on hundreds of monkey bars since I could climb, I let go and swing down towards the broken pipe; my leg and core muscles being the only things keeping me from falling. I stretch out as far as I can, keeping my foot flat and tense. My fingers manage to brush against the wet cloth and I use my nails to hook it on my finger long enough to kind of toss it up a catch it in a better grip. Letting out a little breath of triumph, I easily curl back up and use my arms to hold myself up as I unlodge my feet and swing my leg around so I can straddle the piping. Pushing myself into a sitting position I peer at the cloth and do my best to use what little light I have to examine it. While the cloth itself is muddy and torn, the fabric is in good condition which suggests its new. It's hard to decipher what the original color was but there is a partial print of some kind on the tattered edge. Smiling, I slide the wet fabric into one of my pockets and heft myself back onto my feet.

Glancing around one last time to see if there's anything I missed, I continue my way forward. I meet the guys at the end of the tunnel a few minutes later. "You sure took your time short stack." Raph grinned.

"Well do you want me to be fast or thorough?" I whispered back, a sharp grin on my face as I pull the wet fabric out of my pocket.

Raphs eyes sharpened as Leo took the fabric out of my hands and huddled closer, examining it with trained eyes. "Good catch Rachel." Leo said lowly. "Looks like it might not be a rise in strays setting off Don's sensors after all."

"Well what else could it be?" Raph demanded lowly. "Sacks 'n Shreddar are in jail, nobody else should know we're down 'ere. And even if they did, we moved Lairs. How are they able ta get so close to us wit'out leavin more of a trail."

   "It could just be regular humans Raph. A worker might've been looking at the place to see what needs to be fixed. Or maybe some curious teens on a dare. It's best not to jump to conclusions until we get this to Don. He might be able to find a match to whatever logo is on this fabric." Raph huffed and crossed his arms, displeased but not willing to argue on what was supposed to be a stealth mission. "Come on. Let’s get back to the lair. We can check out the other tunnels later."

"Aww, but I'm having so much fun!" I whined quietly. "Cm'on Big Blue. Just one more tunnel?" I batted my eyes at him and Leos posture quickly turns awkward as his eyes kept flickering from my eyes to something else.

"This- This isn't supposed to be fun Rachel. It's a scouting mission!"

I pouted up at him and leaned closer. "But I've been so good Leo." I made sure to catch his eyes as I begged, "Please?"

Leo looked constipated for all of a minute before his shoulders slumped with a sigh. Raph laughed lowly and leaned down to whisper in my ear. "That was dirty short stack." 

I shivered at the sudden warmth of his breath and turned slightly, leveling a wide-eyed look at him. "What d'ya mean Raph?" I whispered softly.

Raph stared deeply into my eyes for a long minute, the look on his face unreadable before he smirked and pulled away. "Well Fearless?"

   Leo grumbled, "Fine. We'll do one more tunnel. Then we'll head back to the lair and give Donnie the fabric." I cheered silently and blew a kiss at Leo in thanks. Said turtle scowled at me with a blush and turned away. "Follow me." Snickering quietly, I follow Leo to the next tunnel and we go about it the same way we did the other one.

   We ended up doing all five tunnels before heading back. All that was found was my fabric from the first tunnel and a half smoked cigarette Raph found in the fourth tunnel. When we entered the lair the doors to Donnie's lab were open and the smell of coffee was wafting through the air. "Donnie!" I went to rush into the kitchen when once again I was grabbed by the scruff. "Ah- Hey!"

Raphs big green hand was shoved in front of my face. "Weapons."

   "I-! Oh." Scowling I unsheathe my karambits and place them in Raph's palm. "There, now put me down you brute!" I was unceremoniously dropped and with a huff I scampered off into the kitchen. "DoNnIE!" Donnie jumped and let out a little scream spinning around to face me. "Where's my phone?!"

"Geeze Rachel!" Don placed a hand over his heart. "It's in my lab! Why are you so attached to your phone today?"

   I scowled defensively, "I'm not." ‘I definitely wasn't about to tell him that I didn't want any of my belongings to contribute to some mystery gift for April that I wasn't even aloud to see.’ "You took it without an explanation and I was bored for hours before Leo and Raph saved me." I level him with a serious look, "I could've died."

Groaning, Donnie rolls his eyes and walks by me. "Well luckily you survived then." I follow Don to his lab where Leo and Raph were already waiting.

   "Don, we found something in those tunnels you kept talking about." Leo handed over the cloth and cigarette, "I don't know how much info you can get from these but there’s a partial print of a logo on the cloth." Donnie made a curious noise and quickly went over to one of his workbenches to start working on the items when I cleared my throat. Leo shot me a sideways glance, "Uhh, Don. You might want to give Rachel her phone back before she turns apocalyptic." I glare up at Leo. 

"Oh, right!" Donnie rushes over to another bench before scooping up my phone and holding it up to me. "So, I took the liberty of giving your cellular device a few upgrades."

I raised an eyebrow, "Cell-u-lar device." I drawl.

   Ignoring me, Donnie eagerly shows me the new features of the phone, rattling off some specs and talking about an increased storage. "Your phone will automatically connect to any wifi you're near, no password needed. It now has unlimited calling and texting, a gps tracker, panic button, and far superior camera quality."

"Ooo."

   Donnie smiles winningly and hands me my phone back. "Now if you're ever in trouble just hit the button 3 times and a signal will be sent to all of our T-Phones. We'll be alerted and I can use the tracker to see your exact location so help won't be far behind."

I smile kindly at Donnie, "Alright, alright, yer fergiven." I pull Don down into a hug, "I'm sorry for being so uptight about it."

Don laughed and hugged me back, "You're forgiven too."

"Why didn't you just tell me you were upgrading my phone?" I ask pulling back.

Don huffed, "Because it was a surprise. But you don't seem to understand the concept of patience."

I make an offended noise. "Of course I do! I just.." Blushing, and not wanting to admit my jealousy, I not so tactfully change the subject. "It don't matter! You said you were makin April a gift of some kind. What is it?"

Donnie huffed again, "You're awfully demanding today."

I shrug, "Sue me. Now gimme." Raph and Leo laugh.

   Rolling his eyes Donnie leads us into his lab and shows us to a small desk with random bits strewn about it and a curious looking watch sitting in the middle of it all. "It's just a prototype. I got this.. idea in my head and thought why not turn it into a gift for April's birthday? Two birds, one stone, ya know?"

I blink in surprise, "Aprils birthday?"

"Yeah."

"Oh." Relief flows through me like a stream and all of a sudden I feel very silly and embarrassed. "Well, I'm sure she'll love it."

"Thanks!" Donnie seems to perk up at that and Leo takes the opening to divert attention back to our earlier scouting mission.

I watch as the two of them gravitate towards the bigger computer in Donnies lab. Glancing up at the last remaining turtle I find him already looking down at me. "Wanna watch T.V?"

I grin, "Duh." Leaving Leo and Don to their devices I snuggle up to Raph on the couch. Said turtle didn't bat an eye; him and his brothers have long gotten used to my clingy personality.

It wasn't even five minutes into the old school action-comedy movie that Mikey came barreling in. "Ooo, what're we watchin?!" He skillfully hopped over the back of the couch and landed next to me on the cushions. Leaving an arm slung across my shoulders.

"Top Secret, now hush!" Raph snapped, reaching behind me to flick the back of Mikey's head.

"Hey!" Grumbling he muttered, "Top secret? How's a movie top secret?"

Laughing, I whisper to him, "Top Secret is the name of the movie Mike."

"Oooo." He snickered and settled back, "Thanks gummybear."

Nodding, I focus back onto the movie. I lean further onto Raph, and Mikey's arm feels like a warm weight against my shoulders. I sigh softly and smile to myself, 'I could get used to this.'