Work Text:
Splinter wanted to tell April. He really did. But he just could never get the words out. Something in his mind was stopping him. Possibly dread. It’s not like there was anything to be afraid of. After all, they were good friends. Yet, still, he would rehearse alone each night when the turtles were asleep.
What is the best way to tell her “I love you”? Or at least “I am quite fond of you?”
And then, he waited week after week for her to return. But when she finally came to visit, it was too late. His illness had progressed to the point that it physically hurt to speak.
“How are you doing?” she asked.
Using all of his strength, he told her that he could be better, but not just how sick he was.
Perhaps I should work on telling her that first.
And then he would confess his feelings.
But wait. What if she does not love me?
April hadn’t said anything else to him that day. She came by a few more times over the next month. And whenever she did, she always talked to the turtles. But not Splinter. She just stared.
She is disgusted by me. Horrified, even.
His sunken eyes, skeletal frame, and patchy fur. The way he stumbled unsteadily as if his legs were falling apart beneath him.
It all must have been very disturbing.
Suddenly, his heart began racing, and he couldn’t breathe. The world around him faded to black, and his ears rang until a gentle yet concerned voice broke through.
April.
“Splinter, what’s going on?” she asked.
Steadying his breaths, he prepared for the wave of pain that would come with even the simplest of responses.
“Nothing.”
“You sure? You look a little… out of it.”
Splinter nodded as the pressure in his throat increased.
“Well, if you need anything, I’m here for you,” she said.
Then, she glanced at her watch. “Oh! I’m sorry, guys, but I’ve gotta head out.”
“Busy evening?” he asked.
“Irma’s coming over for dinner.”
“Ah.”
“Hey, you haven’t seen my new place yet,” she said. “Maybe you can come over for dinner one day.”
Me? When I can barely even eat solid food anymore?
“Perhaps.”
April did care after all!
He may have failed to confess his love for her, but at least they were still friends. And right now, that was enough.