Oh my god, you just broke my heart with this chapter. It was so heart wrenching to see Donnie point of view as Raph thinks he understands when the little turtle is actually more concerned about eating his lettuce. This was so bittersweet. On one hand liked Donnie as this innocent little turtle, but was heart broken by by Raph realization that Donnie couldn't understand him. This chapter was beautifully written.

I love the way you write from Donnie's perspective as a normal turtle. Wow, so many emotions going on right now. I am so hooked on this story, it's not even funny! You are such a talented writer. I really enjoy the quality of work you put into this story.

I really should have reviewed this story several chapters ago, but it was getting so good I just could stop! I love how you are approaching the real life situation of PTSD and suicide attempt. Your description of character feelings and reactions are on point. Wonderful job. Now I'm off to read more chapters! :)

This chapter had me smiling. It was cute to see the turtles acting like teenage boys for once instead of trained ninjas. Donnie being the first to experience the passage of having his first "girlfriend" is nice to see especially with his brothers curiously and admirably asking him all kinds of questions. Well done, capturing their boyish personalities. I also love the last line of this chapter with Karai. It is so true. She really did lose her father the day Tang Shen died, just not in the way that she thinks. Wonderful chapter!

Too cute! So glad to see April finally come out about her and Donnie's relationship.

So, I found this story under a friend's favorite story list and decided to check it out since I'm a huge Donnie fan. And I have to say, I am really loving this story so far! I had to stop reading and comment on this chapter! I LOVE this teachable moment between Splinter and Donnie. It was well executed and thought-provokingly relevant to Donnie's current situation. Great job writing this father/son moment!

I am wondering about the marriage thing. I grew up a Christian, but I don't know if it matters to be married in their situation. Just being what they have been through. Is marriage even be an option? The Turtles don't even have social security numbers.

I am so glad there is a sequel. This is so not satisfying. Have to know what happens with Splinter and Mei, Timothy, Leo and Karai, April and Donnie. Too much left undone. It ends at a horrible place. Yes. I hate open-ended endings. I hate open-ended questions, too.

Good. TCRI, and Karai's absolutely deplorable behavior there, was finally addressed. I don't like when people forget about it and just blame Leo for going back on their deal. I'm not saying he was right, but maybe if Karai hadn't done that first, he'd have held the line and told Raph no. And I think Karai owes Leo an apology for that, not April. Yes, I can hold grudges, too.

So Karai is acting as a double agent? I'm afraid for her.

I'm glad Splinter won't turn human. I kind of want Karai to be mutated now. LOL

I'm glad the mutant advantages were addressed. And the human/mutant romance issue. Second best. Awww. It's bittersweet, but I like it. Reminds me of how Andromache ends up with Helenus, Hector's brother, and their relationship is one of respect and affection, but never the love Andromache had for her first husband.

Leo and Karai! Yes! My heart is exploding from the fluff! :D But I'm sad they'll be separated again. :(

Splinter following Leo. I love it. In fact, the entire fluffy scene was wonderful. Of course, Leo would just come out with what's really bothering him. I love his honesty like that. He knows how to identify truth, the heart of things. Loved Splinter reassuring Leo he's loved, respected, and admired. The ending formal bow, the watery eyes - beautiful.

Loving how Karai still cares for Leo. :D Gives me pleasant contentment to see he can still get through to her. And Leo. Such a gentleman. :)

I love leader Leo. So much. :D

OMG! No! Poor Donnie.

That's right, Donnie. You're totally justified at being hurt. I'm with you. No sarcasm.

Poor Leo. Ow. He's not thinking straight. Of course, Splinter would die for them. And I can totally get why he'd be afraid of Splinter being human, even a little resentful at his good fortune. And the thing is, Leo is self-aware enough to know he's being unfair and probably unreasonable, but he can't help the negativity, either. It's a hard position. Understandable and relatable emotions all around.