(A Dealers Hand)
He adjusted his tie under his white collar shirt. A 2 button notch, charcoal grey suit. Adjusting his glasses and stepping out of his government issued black Toyota Camry. The weather was decent for an early morning meeting. The Manhattan late winter Cold bit his skin, and for a second he was absorbed in the events to come. There was a Northern Snow storm approaching by the end of this week, he planned to be back in Nevada in two and a half weeks. He scheduled a meeting with his 'hired hands', to which he received a response . . .A white feather, on the desk of his New York based office. John Bishop moved swiftly and silently to the Bistro. He walked towards the door with full movement, before gently setting himself at one of the café tables.
"I'll take a tall coffee, black. A blueberry scone . . . and whatever she wants". He said putting his menu down. The second he did, there she was sitting in front of him as if she'd been there the entire time. Fading in like a background shadow, she probably wasn't even on anyone's radar until he announced her.
He hadn't heard her, but then again he hadn't expected to. Those dark glittering eyes complimented a faint smile, a false predator's smile, as she slid into the white French deco chair across him.
"Green tea with ginger, hot please". She answered before taking his hand as if she was his date. The waiter, a young high school kid nodded before going back inside the Bistro.
"You never make a sound do you? It does boast confidence that your ability is serving you well with your project. Considering it's due soon". He gave both a compliment and a reminder. She smoothed her posture, similar to that of a snake, smiling with a cunning sort of charm, and moving a manila folder in front of him. The smile seemed out of place, considering there were pictures. Several brochures for programs from that same high school that was attacked by her hired men. Seeing the school's pamphlets irritated him, he was already being watched by the Secretary of Defense for the attack on the school and the deaths of teachers and injuries of students. He was being funded to protect national security, and being involved with an organization hell bent on dominating political office while killing people . . . That wasn't going to pass with the White House if those accusations proved to be true. He had to make this look like an unfortunate business transaction, that he was not aware of the connection, but that this connection served a purpose in the interest of national security.
"You've been attending quite a few cultural events". He moved the programs over to read the back, there were notes of similarities, students who performed or were involved in the activities. Photo's stood out of those who were similar to the first photo's shot by satellite, narrowed down. "You're coming up to the end of the school year . . . and the due date for this project is approaching in less than a week". He added darkly towards the end.
The young waiter brought their orders, Karai didn't even take her eyes off of him to thank the waiter. "There are two upcoming events I thought you should take note of". She pointed, sliding one page over with the tip of her manicured nail. He quirked an eyebrow, reading over the pamphlet program with much disdain.
"A traditional Fairy Tale Classic, Broadway's rendition of 'The little Mermaid. And a program listing of sporting events for a public high school . . . (sigh)'". He looked over at her wondering why he bothered to take this seriously.
"And how is it you believe this will bring results conclusive to our arrangement?" He asked feeling a little edge in his voice, he was impatient with this organization.
The sun was coming out, and warming the air, creating a spring like feeling, which only meant time was running short. The calm before the storm this week.
"So far you've hired a gang of organized criminals, created a city wide blood bath, and even assassinated a public official . . . But finding even one of the anomalies proves too difficult for you. . . What is this? . . ."He asked regrettingly watching her pull out a cell phone. A basic flip phone from the past decade, unregistered and pre-paid. Would the games ever end with this woman?
"You will receive the call . . . and a pick up location . . . We know they've attended there for some time". She replied curtly.
"Karai . . ." He stopped her short. She reached over with both her hands endearingly, as if speaking with a lover. The people around would think nothing else. But her words didn't match her posture, and that predatory smile.
"My father has taken back the Purple Dragons, nearly doubling our man power. We have seized political office in New York with our candidate who is high in the polls for the next election to be mayor . . .Then Governor . . . We have silenced those who need to be silenced, and hired those whose skills are matched to the highest trained Military officers. We have infiltrated, and acted as your eyes and ears. We know where your 'projects' are and who is attending to them . . . Your patience has been greatly appreciated, considering this isn't as easy as killing someone. You want them alive and unharmed, something completely different than our usual line of work . . . So your patience is necessary on our part." She worded herself very carefully, and the way she stared hard at him when she said 'We know where your projects are and who is attending them'.
"Is there something you're not disclosing with me, Karai? Despite your reassurances, one more slip-up would result in a government backed revolt, your highly trained 'soldiers' are also gang members, illegal immigrants, and ex-cons from some of the country's worst institutions. Brainwashed youths added to your circle can only result in unorganized chaos . . . Try not to send me the glossy brochure version of what I know is really working behind the scenes." He asked sternly, he'd had enough of these phantom games.
He lifted his cup clearly annoyed and aggravated, sipping his coffee, while she sipped her tea.
"My father sends his regards, and wishes you well . . . He also wishes you leave the city area until called . . . For your own safety". She smiled lifting her purse over her shoulder, bowing lightly and leaving. Her hair swishing in its straight pony tail, as if she didn't hear a word of what he said. The words of homeland security echoing in his head, they would not fund his research if he was connected publicly to this terrorist organization. Not to mention the political implications since the president himself backed funding for the space research, and trying to find the cause of the worst weather phenomena over one of the United States' largest metropolitan cities. Coinciding with the outage of two government funded satellites that collided, and another that gave the disturbing images that weren't given directly to the public. If this research paid off . . . It would change history, and he'd find the answers he was looking for.
'What the president doesn't know won't hurt his campaign'.
Bishop was left with the folder of evidence and research. 'Karai seems serious this time, then again he didn't have the financial means to afford 'doubt'. Everything was already in motion, and transportation was prepared to the facility, and the holdings point was agreed with Karai. She wished to house them herself and under her men's supervision, until he arrived with proper transport.
The day was waning, and he had arrangements to make. Though as he looked around and couldn't pinpoint where she had parked a car, or locate body guards stationed nearby for the meeting. He wasn't confident she would come through on her end, though he was willing to give her until the deadline. After all, he was a man of his word.
He pulled up the number for a resort hotel in Hoboken, New Jersey. He would station there until the deadline. If Karai didn't come up with her end . . . he would bring the hammer down, and be the downfall of her father's re birthed empire. Then the president would get to take credit for sending our troops to take down a terror cell on American soil.
(The ultimate predator)
Karai parked her Kawasaki, she had raced back against full noon traffic to inform her father of the meeting. As she entered the stock yard, and pulled around to the empty office building. Far off in the distance she could see the reconstruction unfolding . . . Her father's building, Saki Enterprises, was being rebuilt. With the funds they received from their new political ally who was vying for the Mayor's Seat in the upcoming election. It was going to be built under a new name. She wasn't sure what her father was thinking, he's believed dead by the public. But she knew that he was going to use her face as a public model. She would be the adoring daughter of Saki Enterprises, and she would continue his community service and charity to the city. Her father would have her De-cry his connections to the terrorist organization, or perhaps the new mayor candidate would run the corporation under his direction.
Walking up to the wing she last left her father . . . She looked around. He was gone. The bandages and burn suit left on the bed. She would've jumped if she wasn't prepared for his sudden appearance beside her.
"Master Shredder" She nodded, gracing him. "Father, are you feeling well enough?" Her usually steel eyes met his with concern. His remained hard and cold, but his tone softened . . . a sign of affection she would sometimes consider. "Speak".
"He has agreed to leave the city limits, we've traced his phone to a listing in New Jersey, and he will be away during the events. It gives us enough time to pick up the anomalies, and to move forward with your plan. Quick capture, minimal resistance". She answered assuredly. "The bank transfer has gone through, he's giving us half, enough to continue construction. The other half when the job is done, in three installments over the next year". She informed him.
"Good" He stood before her, making his way to the windows, looking out over the streets, and the skyline in the distance.
"He won't interfere with the mutants, leaving them . . . To you". She answered, pausing momentarily.
"You will capture the females, bring them to me. We will use the mutant's attachment to them as bait. I want to know why Bishop is so interested in them, what he wants from them. It could prove useful to us. He can have them once we are finished questioning them. You will use them to trap the mutants, I expect them to suffer for my dishonor, my injuries" He raised a burned hand and she watched him, feeling remorse for the body he has to remain in, burnt and scarred and in pain. She wanted revenge for him.
"Once I have my victory, Hun will run the streets, you will handle our political face, and we will take over this city, and rebuild the foot clan".
"Everything is ready for execution . . . It is in tracking them" She admitted weakly, they could not put a steady pair of eyes on them enough to know who they were, even if they have leads, they would have to watch every lead every day, until one of the mutants made an appearance.
"We know they are being protected". Karai waited for any advice or instruction.
He stared out the windows, before turning to her with a snake like turn of his head.
"They will be close to each one . . . You are to follow each one, and separate the deer from the lions. We will make it difficult for them to want to leave the city. Then overwhelm them".
(I'd Do Anything: Simple Plan)
Leonardo left his littered bedroom floor, a dozen or so crushed up letter's he'd thought about sending . . . Strewn across the carpet, evidence of hour's worth of struggle. He needed something to explain himself. But a part of him felt like it was too late for that. But he was still stuck in the moment. Bethany . . . giving him something he never expected, and he wanted to express so much all in one. But even the best pre-written speech didn't feel right. He had to get out.
Mikey's cat gingerly keeping pace with him when he took the elevator up. Raph was sitting on his bike like he was getting ready to take off, completely covered head to toe in gear, hood and all. Leonardo didn't have to guess where he was going. They'd all been kept in for too long, and they were on each other's nerves almost every day for the past week from lack of space.
His brother threw a look over at him past his shoulder guard, before revving and taking off. He watched the exhaust blow smoke into the garage, and out into the cold, listening to the sound of the motor until it faded.
The cat brushed up around his ankles. Leonardo picked up Klunk sitting out on Don's work bench and makeshift barstool, putting Klunk up on the counter. The orange tabby brushed himself up against his face and hands. He smiled momentarily, feeling completely useless to his own needs.
Another day is going by
I'm thinkin' about you all the time
But you're out there, and I'm here waitin'
Raphael leaned against the wind and kept to the backstreets. Taking it too fast over a speed bump, this giant terrapin on a 'bigger than average' bike. 800cc. Just barely big enough for his size. He sped through a yellow light to beat the red. His mind was occupied thinking about what he'd say when he got there. What she would say to him, if she would even talk to him. She didn't deserve to be ignored, and he couldn't take it anymore. He missed her scent, her hair, how she'd curve against him in her sleep and snuggle up so close. He even missed having her hair in his face at night, and almost choking on it.
He missed wakin' up to her smiling and bringin' him coffee, sayin' 'Mornin' Mister', like he was her's to call that. He wanted her home.
He flew past a morning bus and onto Casey's old home street on 3rd.
And I wrote this letter
In my head
Cause so many things were left unsaid
But now you're gone and I can't think straight
Madeline laughed, and did a little dance when Donatello took out all the goblins, scored them over 5,000 experience points each, and he insisted she have the bracelet of Sirius, which calls spirits from the star to aid in combat.
"Are you sure!? Like this is huge! Everybody's been after this one. It's worth over 40 bucks in Platinum online".
As a gentlemen he insisted it was easier. She'd stay alive longer and he liked watching her little happy dances when she won in-game pieces. She gave his avatar a kiss action emoji. His avatar blushed while her angelic looking one twirled and gave a foot popping kiss. Worthy of a clap from Cinderella herself. They continued across the terra to reach the capital of Naindell, to shop and load up their avatars with gear, food, and potions. Maddie signed off after waving over chat, she had an A.P class to attend.
This could be the one last chance
To make you understand
Yeah!
I'd do anything!
Just to hold you in my arms
And try to make you laugh
Somehow I can't put you in the past
Kelly was browsing through Domino's pizza on her phone. She had just enough to buy herself some lunch today, and some for Mikey too. She ordered him a classic pepperoni, with extra cheese and cinna-stix with icing. With extra love. She sent in for the order and send him a quick text telling him to be up by the Van and with his cowabunga Carl head on. "Got me food, and got you food too3 Love you! (Kissy face x10).
Michelangelo lifted himself up from the couch, smiling at the text and heading to the elevator, a big grin spread across his face. He had the best girlfriend in the world.
I'd do anything! Just to fall asleep with you!
Will you remember me?
Cause I know I won't forget you
Casey watched Brandace lean over the hood, taking out the air filter, taking off the oil cap, checking the dipstick, and even pointing out that April's car had an irritatingly place filter, More or less. "This one's in the middle, ugh" She wrapped a towel around her arm to keep herself from getting burned trying to loosen the oil filter, and after a couple minutes, she had it in her hands, hot and covered in oil, spilling out into a drain pan below.
"These one's suck , but not as bad as a Toyota Camry . . .Those are like up against the side where you can't even get a claw in there to unscrew it". Brandace stopped, realizing she was rambling. Tossing her hair to the side and giving an awkward smirk. "Here you go" She handed the filter wrapped in a red shop rag, over to him.
"You're hired" Casey smiled shaking his head. He looked at the filter and smiled, looking at her. He tried tossing the filter into a designated bin, hitting the side and making it in like a bank shot. He couldn't believe it. He had scored a jackpot and didn't even need to go through a work history or background check.
"Can you do diesel filters?" He asked, wondering where she was with her technical knowledge, and what he could rely on her to do.
"I can replace the top fuel filter but . . . Not the bottom. I wasn't shown how". She admitted like she felt it would count against her.
"I'll show you" He nodded, more than happy. He couldn't wait to tell April he had an at home employee.
Together we broke all the rules
Dreamin' of droppin' out of school
To Leave this place
And Never come back
Brandace texted Kelly and Bethany a picture of the hood and a happy Casey talking to April on the phone behind her. "Got a job" Brandace smiled off the side. She thought about sending it to Raph but . . . Wasn't sure he'd really even care. The next couple of minute's as she was getting quarts of oil and a new filter, she was contemplating her life. What if this wasn't going to end well? What if . . . She didn't get that happily ever after in the end? The Husband, the home, the family, the friends, the job and career. Everything she felt that she was supposed to have, but somehow couldn't. That's why in this new life . . . she felt hope . . . That she could have it. But now -.
She sighed, pouring oil into a funnel. "Hey are you going to get oil guns with tanks? Or do you plan on constantly buying quarts and gallons cause you don't recycle enough as it is". She smirked, half bent over the hood.
"Tell me about it"
So now maybe after all these years
If you miss me
Have no fear
I'll be here
I'll be waitin'
Michelangelo smiled, sending Kelly a photo of him in the cowabunga Carl head, pizza box in hand. 'You're the best', and a dozen heart eyed emoji's. He took a bite, vowing to leave her a couple slices . . . he'd come pick her up from school, and maybe a date to follow. He missed her like a board misses the waves.
Kelly sent back a selfie, smiling internally when he texted back that he was picking her up after school, she felt bad having to tell him she couldn't
'It'll be late tonight remember, final rehearsal? I have to be a mermaid tomorrow'. She texted back sadly. Kelly made a face before putting her phone away. Already on her way to her final class before study hall, looking around she saw posters and even a sea themed hallway. She'd be here late again for last rehearsal and then here early in the morning to help set up the final pre-premiere. "Hey Kelly, see you tonight girl!" a couple of the girls playing the daughters of Triton waved down the hall on their way to the gym. Lately she'd had girls being super nice to her, and it was 'nice', she hasn't had anyone mock her, or make her feel awful here.
This could be the one last chance
To make you understand
And I just can't let you leave me
Once again
Yeah!
Bethany was on her way out, she could see Casey's car across the lot in the pick-up zone. Kelly had to stay behind for final preparations. Bethany moved her hair behind her ear, looking around in her white sweater, the jeweled hair piece that Leo had gotten her for Christmas tucked neatly into her messy bun. The cold was warming up but she could see past the skyscrapers the giant storm cloud build up across the sky, it was going to snow some more this week. 'Great another blizzard'.
"Hey!" Madeline's voice called out past the crowd of people leaving the lot. Maddie walked up in a tan fur edged coat, Pink and blonde hair peeking out from under the hood. "Kelly's going over her lines with the main casters and Mr. E, you wanna come hang out for a while?" She asked. Madeline had no idea, Bethany thought looking at her cell, but she was going to ask April if she could go visit 'everyone'. Her excuse . . . She needed help studying.
Beth nodded her head, motioning for Maddie to follow. Madeline brightened up
I'd do anything!
Just to hold you in my arms
And Try to make you laugh
Somehow I can't put you in the past
Brandace looked up, that voice made her freeze. She whipped around so fast she felt her ponytail hit his arm. That big hulking hunter green, over shadowing her and the hood of a Ford F-150. He tossed a bandanna wrapped around his face off, and let the giant coat fall where it was. In riding gear and all, mismatched and okay with it . . . There was an awkward smile, as those fiery eyes looked at her apologetically, and those massive arms lifted themselves out as if seeing if a hug was safe to give.
That big, muscled up, bad ass looked so vulnerable. She kicked herself for letting all those feelings she had just emotionally fly out the window.
The second she saw him and realized he was here to see her . . . She jumped up for a hug. She laughed feeling him lift her up, both arms safely holding her close.
"Dammit, I'm mad at you" She shook her head in the crook of his neck defeated. He chuckled, letting go just a little, hand around her hip, gently.
"Where the hell have you been?" She asked hitting his arm, her sad eyes hit him and he felt like such a bad guy for it.
"Been under tha' weather lately" he wasn't lying, and she missed hearing that thickness of New York in his accent, straight from his chest, and honest with his gaze.
I'd do anything!
Just to fall asleep with you
Will you remember me?
Cause I know I won't forget you
Donatello thought his senses were over heightened, he could swear he detected the scent of perfume?
After being gone for a few weeks the feminine factors of the home should have subsided, such as . . . "Victoria's secret perfume? Flowers and something . . . Coco-nutty". He lowered his legs from their propped position across the side desk. Lowering his feet he saw . . . 'oh shi-'
"Hey . . . I had the key to the elevator so . . . I let ourselves in" Bethany admitted with an unsure smirk, holding up the extra elevator by-pass key, otherwise he would've had to buzz them down.
I close my eyes
And all I see is you
I close my eyes
I can't sleep
I can't forget you
"Oh Uh!" He swiftly moved off his chair. Quickly down the step, seeing Bethany walk up and . . . Madeline right behind her.
"Hey you" Maddie smiled at him gently.
She smiled at him and he smiled awkwardly back and gave a slight wave, unsure of himself. "Heyyyyyyy! What brings you to our . . . Humble abode"? Donatello looked around immediately wishing he had cleaned up the place, seeing Madeline take in the surroundings." Bethany walked up to hug him, looking around and seeing the place quiet. Master Splinter was watching a t.v show in the Living area.
"Raph actually took off, Mikey's . . . Somewhere. Sensei is enjoying Netflix, and Leo-" Donatello stopped when he noticed Leonardo already standing by the corner archway towards his room.
"Is everything alright" Leonardo came over in a quick stride, his instincts were high and he assumed she would be here if something were wrong. "Hi" He greeted Madeline and Bethany instantly went in for a hug.
"Why would something have to be wrong?" Bethany asked, she noticed something was different, something seemed off. His eyes were . . . Could it possible they were always that intense? Even the way he hugged her back with one arm seemed different.
Na na na
Na na na
I'd do anything for you
Na na na
Na Na Na
Naaaaa
Naaaaaaaaaaa
Kelly walked out of the hallway after rehearsal, she was tired and needed to rest her voice for the show tomorrow. Shouldering her bag and looking around outside the exit . . . The dark parking lot didn't look promising, and she felt the clear sting of cold hit her cheeks.
Michelangelo hung upside down with a quick 'Woosh', right in front of her. Smiling with a devious laugh. He jumped down in front of his unsuspecting lady, scaring her, and laughing when she shrieked.
"Oh my god!" She held her chest. He laughed pulling her into a hug. He kissed her quick, hurrying her to the Cowabunga Carl Van, just ducking behind the cars to avoid people seeing them. His heart pounding, full grin hearing her giggle while they snuck to the van like 'teenagers'.
Kelly giggled, seeing the pizza box the second he dove in after her through the side door. "Did you like it?!" She smiled while he looked behind him for traffic to pull out of the lot.
"After careful consideration, inspired by your sincere gesture and act of goodwill, in the shape of a heart . . . With pepperoni. I've decided I would like to extend the request for the incredible honor, of having your babies". He smiled at her. Kelly put her hand to her mouth busting out a happy laugh.
I'd do Anything!
Just to hold you in my arms
And try to make you laugh
Somehow I can't put you in the past
I'd do anything!
Just to fall asleep with you!
"What brings you home?" Leonardo asked, a little uncertain of why they showed up unexpectedly, and how they got in without Don forewarning them. Leonardo narrowed his gaze at his brother to check for signs of foreknowledge.
Donatello waited until Madeline and Beth looked away before slightly shaking his head, hands out and a slight shrug, immediately breaking into a fake grin when Maddie turned to look at his computer area.
"Oh wow, this is your work station?" She began, prompting Donatello to shoot Leonardo an apologetic look over his shoulder. "Yes, this is my basic system however . . ."
Bethany lifted up her bag "Miss me?" she asked jokingly. Leonardo smiled gently ushering her to the kitchen. Taking her bag for her.
'More than you know' He thought.
To fall asleep with you!
With you! Yeah!
I'd do anything!
To fall asleep with you!
Brandace felt a nip on the inside of her neck, smiling and sliding her hands up his arms, it tingled and spread goosebumps across her skin. "Uh-uh, off". Raphael reluctantly pulled away, smirking inwardly at the fresh pink mark he left on her, but her eyes caught him. They were hard and he knew he was in trouble.
'God dammit, she could do that to him'.
"You've been ignoring me for weeks . . . If I didn't feel like a burden before, I feel like one now. Your friend just gave me a job, poor April is stuck with 3 extra females around her apartment. I never see you . . ." She left off looking away from him, down at the ground.
He huffed, arms spread around on each side of the hood she was leanin' on.
"What am I doing wrong?" She asked. Raph could tell from the look on her face and the eyes she was givin' him that she really did think him bein' this damn distant was her fault. "It ain't anythin' ya did, It's somethin' . . . I had ta' take care of . . . I'm still takin' care of" He lifted her chin up and felt a twinge of guilt when she moved his hand away and walked away from him.
"What did you 'have' to take care of that requires constantly relocating me? I feel like such a god damn burden to you. What do I have to do to make any of this, all of this better . . . " Brandace stared at him helplessly, catching his reluctant gaze. Raphael sighed with his chest heavy.
I'd do anything
There's nothing I won't
I'd do anything
To Fall asleep with you
Bethany felt a tense energy coming from him, she wasn't sure what it was but it was different. Maybe it was cause . . . of what happened. The memory made her shift in her chair. Throwing a look over her shoulder she smiled at him gently, hearing him heat up a tea kettle on the stove. She could feel it, that friend feeling that felt like more, that felt borderline crazy, but felt okay to feel that way. Way too many feelings. She accepted a black chai tea with honey, breaking out her homework, anything to get her mind off the crazy confused feelings.
"Anything I can help with" He said picking up her health text book full of flashcards that fell out. Leonardo chuckled a bit, looking over the book that flipped open to . . . 'Oh'. His eyes widened and he instantly recovered to make it look as though he wasn't surprised by the section she was on.
"That's fine" she laughed pulling the book back. "Just flashcards for a quick not too important quiz next week, no biggie" She pulled everything in and nearly blushed at the one he was holding. She hurried and tried to grab all the flashcards off the floor before he could see any more of them.
'Reproductive system'
I'd do anything!
Cause I know I won't forget you!
(Un-Common Biology)
Donatello cleared a hitch in his throat explaining things that she was picking up , or touching. Madeline was just curious, though she had no idea how much that was making him nervous. It was a heightened sensation of her presence being right there in front of him, touching his desk and things with wonder and amazement, instead of his usual screen to screen interactions.
She smelled phenomenal, and mentally noted how she would view something, and refrain from touching it unless he held it out for her, like his rubix cube. Or how she was viewing his playlist and reached for his headphones to listen. He was embarrassed at this whole situation, while she was smiling and being polite. It was as if she was afraid to tread, not completely open like she is when they were gaming together.
"I'm supposed to be studying for finals so . . . My secret is your secret?" she pointed at him. "Of Course, where are my manners? Would you like some coffee? We're out of creamer, is sugar okay? I'm assuming three?" He asked.
"That's actually right, thank you" She smiled brighter. Donatello beamed a little, brewing a new pot for her. "I keep forgetting how tall you are" She said looking up at him, and measuring the top of her head to his forearm with a laugh. He even snorted a chuckle.
Across the lair Bethany was letting Splinter know all about school and how everyone was doing, since he came by and asked. He was enthusiastic and happy to see her at least. "Brandace is starting a new job working with Casey in his garage, I'm passing English and History, Kelly is so nervous about tomorrow with opening night, and Maddie . . . has taken an oath of silence, but I guess she wanted to see her gaming partner".
Leonardo however wasn't as . . . convincing, something was off and she couldn't tell what it was.
She could hear Madeline giggle across the room. She hadn't met Splinter yet and based on how quickly the elderly rat disappeared after smiling about the progress everyone was making, she guessed it maybe wasn't time yet. Donatello seemed so at ease . . . maybe a little nervous? His hand shook a little while Madeline was talking to him and pouring coffee . . . Then again he could just be high off caffeine right now.
Bethany tucked a ringlet behind her ear. There was a heavy presence coming from Leonardo across the kitchen. With each footstep and with each movement he seemed 'different'. She couldn't figure it out. Even the way he avoided eye contact was different, then when he did look at her it was . . . Intense.
"Brandace Is starting a job, working with Casey in his garage. April has Kelly full time this summer to help with the store. I'm still considering that coffee shop job . . . I don't think I'll be going to college just yet since . . .I don't know what's going to happen". She admitted, most seniors already had their colleges picked out and they were doing their grant and scholarship paperwork. . . She didn't know if she'd even be able to go.
"We'll figure something out, either you go to school or we start training you more". Leonardo stated it as a fact. His voice was different? Smoother and deeper? Was he changing his tone on purpose? Maybe she'd been gone for so long she forgot his usual tone? She was crazy, she had to be. Their knees touched under the kitchen table, hers against one of his.
Ten seconds had gone by and he hadn't moved his knee from hers, he was allowing the physical touch. She looked up at him from her homework while he viewed her class schedule out of curiosity.
"Blizzard warning, coming in, it's going to be bad tomorrow" Donatello pulled up the weather app on his cell. Leonardo quickly gave her schedule back and stood up "Any weather tonight?" He asked crossing his arms. We're getting some tonight but the major polar vortex is hitting tomorrow with some serious snow and hazardous conditions.
He sighed taking a look at her "You'd have to leave now to make it before the snow starts". Donatello left to help Maddie gather her bag and escort her to the elevator. Bethany sighed loudly through her nose, she knew he knew she was irritated. "I haven't seen you in weeks" She protested.
"It won't be for much longer, it's just not a good time".
"Am I inconvenient?" She asked, giving him a pleading look, before looking down. Leonardo pulled back the words he was about to say, he almost spoke as if he was giving an order. She wasn't giving him much room to give direction, much less a suggestion.
"I miss you, I'm tired of not feeling safe". She knew that statement caught him.
His stance straightened and he wore his 'leader' like expression instantly. "You don't feel safe?" He asked.
"Do you want me gone?" She asked, pretending to ignore his question. She left him with a dilemma and he knew she was winning.
Bethany lifted her eyelashes up giving him her best innocent pleading look, she was tired of being without him near her. She was tired of feeling paranoid at school, and she missed his presence. "Now I feel selfish" She mumbled. Leonardo threw a glance at Donatello and Madeline who were waiting a little awkwardly on the sidelines.
"Are you good to drive home alone". Leonardo asked Madeline directly with a serious nod. "Yes" Madeline nodded with a small uncertain smile.
"I'll see you at the play tomorrow?" Madeline nodded while Donatello shouldering her bag, and escorting her to the elevator. Bethany stood there awkwardly with Leonardo for a moment as the sound of the elevator going up continued in the background.
"I'm sorry" She said instantly, feeling embarrassed.
Leonardo gave her a reassuring look "You have nothing to be sorry for" She was under his protection and it was his duty to ensure she felt secure and safe where she was. Even if it was a 'bad time . . .A very bad time'.
Leonardo took a calming breath, using his chest to keep his thoughts to himself. 'She had no idea how bad of a time it was, but that wasn't her fault, and he wasn't about to take his insecurity or weakness out on her'.
He left to his room afterwards giving her a staged smile, she didn't believe was genuine. She sat at the kitchen table for the next hour, feeling slightly depressed and confused. Her mind wandered to that moment again, those moments. Where she wondered if they were even real if he even felt what she did.
He kept himself closed in that room for so long, she considered asking Casey to come get her to correct her mistake in wanting to stay. Her thumb hovered over her phone screen , ready to dial. Master Splinter came by to get a blanket from the couch.
"Do not be so hard on yourself, rather, consider it not 'your' problem but one that he is dealing with on his own" Master splinter walked by doing that whole 'I know something you don't know, sage advice walk by', she'd come to know and love.
Bethany stood up and felt a little shaky in the knees. She wanted him, to be close to him, and if he rejected her . . . Then she'd at least know and go back to pretending as if those things didn't happen. She'd be respectful and courteous and hold herself up to the standard she promised she would be . . . Even if this resulted in her locking herself up in Brandace's room for the night to hide away and sleep off the shame.
Her hand shook at her side, when she walked towards his door. Thinking about in that moment how her knees were up against his leg for the longest time and he didn't pull away. Some small bit of reassurance. She knocked before peeping her head in. He had a book in his hands, one of the ones she'd checked out from the library. She smirked dropping her bag on the floor and walking over.
"I'm asking for permission to be selfish and have you all to myself right now. Is that okay?" She tried playing it off as a joke, moving her hair to the side and over her shoulder. Leonardo had one leg out on the bed and the rest was propped up against pillows. One blanket half over and half off, he looked so comfortable.
Leonardo's expression didn't change . . . His eyes stared straight ahead of himself as if contemplating it. "It's safe" he finally allowed her to snuggle in under his arm. Wrapping around her warm and safe. This was perfect, and he would never how just how much.
(Better Left Unsaid: Bad things by Machine Gun Kelly, Camila Cabello)
It wasn't like he wasn't tryin', the real problem was he WAS tryin' and she didn't know just how much. Raphael crossed his arms standing in front of her, givin' her some space. She was upset wit' him . . .understandable, he got it. But here she was thinkin' it was her fault.
Am I out of my head
am I out of my mind?
If you only knew the bad things I like
Don't think that I can explain it
What can I say
It's complicated
"C'mere" he asked pulling her in for a hug, she reluctantly let him pull her in. God he missed her scent. That warm cashmere sweater, grease and oil, mixed with her coconut shampoo, he wanted it all. Pushing his face lower to be taken in by her scent.
Immediately there was warmth and he caught sight of a smile. "Your not off the hook" She reminded him.
"Hope not" he joked lifting her chin up and catching that sly smirk she was tryin' hard to hide from him. Brandace moved his hand away, he took her hand and kissed the top of her knuckles. "I miss ya too" He admitted. She could see some sort of hurt and confliction in his eyes, but when she tried to get him to say what it was, he would dodge it.
Don't matter what you say
Don't matter what you do
I only wanna do bad things to you
Giving him the best vulnerable loving look she could, she pulled down on the edges of his face mask tail, trailing over his chest. She pulled him down and smoothed a quick kiss across his bottom lip. She heard his breath hitch, willingly leaning down so she could do it again, and again, until he had picked her up for a long one. Licking his bottom lip gently and locking eyes with him.
So good that you can't explain it
What can I say
It's complicated
She tasted like coffee and cherry chapstick. He hummed happily at the attention, both of them losing their breaths for one more after the last. "I promise someday when I get my own place, you won't have to move me around so much . . ."
He pulled off reluctantly, smiling and placing her on top of the red tool box about half his height with a mocking force. She laughed pulling him in for another, and he didn't stop her. Her hands gracing his skin along his jawline and cheeks, fingers delicately brushing along the edges of his mask like any second she'd slip it off. "I want ya home". He admitted, half in and out of a daze with her kissin' him like that. She bit his bottom lip gently, and he thought he was gonna lose it.
Nothin's that bad
If it feels good
So you come back
Like I knew you would
He backed off to breathe and she put a hand to her head like she couldn't believe it either, how dizzy it really made you feel, how alive, and how it made everything feel warmer, hotter, like he was runnin' a legit fever and his heart was pumpin' hard. That tingling that brushes across the skin and shivers through your veins down to those butterflies in her stomach.
And were both wild
and the nights young
and your my drug
Breathe you in till my face numb
Drop it down to that bass drum I got what you dream about
Nails scratchin' my back tat
Eye's closed while you scream out
There was somethin' wrong, but it wasn't wrong, it was right . . .It was too damn right. He had to stop now or he'd take it too far right here in the garage. It was too damn easy to imagine this toolbox shakin' and putting a dent on that hood she was workin' on.
"Mister" She teased him, her voice dropped an octave completely smoothed with lust. Her eyes were dilating and she kept tryin' to bring him closer and keep him right between her legs. Those damn jeans would be off in seconds. He shook his head letting her mouth catch his for another kiss, pulling on his pant loops.
and you keep me in with those hips
while my teeth sink in those lips
while your body's givin' me life
and you suffocate in my kiss then you said-
"We should uh, we need to stop" He gritted out, hands turned to fists, downwards on top of the box. She immediately shot him a hurt look, rejection making her retreat. He was trying to slow down his breathing, hard and long hot breaths that graced her collarbone.
"Sorry" She slipped off the box and tried to push him back gently. She was fighting down the feeling he had her in, the one where she wanted him . . . Really wanted him.
He was way too big for her to move, but he reluctantly obliged.
'Fuck this' he thought, feeling the urge anyway. He got in front of her and kissed her this time. He meant it. Her eyes widened just before he closed his. He pulled off too soon, lips swollen and her tongue tingled, it was painful to have him want her but then run away so quickly. Her body ached, wanting his bed again, wanting to keep his personal guy smell all to herself and angry that she wasn't getting whatever was keeping him distant. "Your making this wayyyy to hard" She breathed out heavily, trying to steady herself.
I want you forever
even when we're not together
scars on my body so I can take you wherever
"It aint you sweetheart"
"What am I doing wrong? this is literally becoming torture, and I don't wanna resent you for it" She pleaded, eyes stinging with stress induced water build up, she didn't want to cry in front of him, but she knew it was there the threat of tears.
He handed her something and put it to her chest before pulling her in and kissing her forehead. "Wait- What's this?" She asked frustrated at this point, it was a manilla folder with papers and a notebook in it.
"I'll see ya tomorrow" He promised getting on the bike and opening the garage door.
"I love you, you jerk" She looked at him hard, hoping he understood just how frustrated and hurt she was, but dammit she couldn't hate that smile. He threw a soft one over his shoulder at her before putting on the helmet and taking off. Those fiery eyes making her melt on the inside. Dammit dammit dammit. She could take gruff Raph, she could take frustrated Raph, she was amazing with fun and happy Raph, but that soft smile he gave her?! like he was sad and loved her too, she couldn't deal with that. How was she supposed to handle that?
It's his fault he keeps leaving! Just a minute ago he had her on top of the toolbox and she was pulling on his loops to tease him. They were kissing so hard her lips were swollen and he was shaking from him wanting her just as badly as she was starting to show him she wanted him too. His hands were clenched like he was feeling the same frustration she was, fighting themselves back from the other. How did that just happen without . . . DAMMIT DAMMIT DAMMIT!
She opened the manilla folder, frustrated beyond belief. These papers were hand written, and some were printed out. There was a print out of a real turtle, migration patterns and behavioral print outs from . . .Animal ? Then the hand written papers . . .This wasn't Raph's handwriting. She looked up again to where he took off, heading to her room to investigate all this paperwork he left her with.
I want you forever even when we're not together
Scars on my body I can look at you whenever
Am I outta my head
am I out of my mind?
If you only knew the bad things I like
Michelangelo knew he had to get Kelly back in time, but he was enjoying all of this. He knew he was being a little selfish, but heck, no one said they couldn't be selfish together. He smiled placing little kisses on Kelly's neck and face, making her laugh and kiss him back. The Cowabunga carl van was parked just down the street from April's place. The windows were totally fogged. "I get to see my girl all dressed up like a sexy mermaid tomorrow" He bragged twirling a piece of her hair with his finger. She tried hard not to giggle. "I'm not that sexy in the costume" She tried saying otherwise.
"I'm gonna have to start puttin' a beat down on those mer-dudes comin' onto my woman" He wiggled his eye ridges up and down, giving her a wink. She broke out laughing. "Your too sweet"
Don't think that I can explain it
What can I say?
It's complicated
Those bright brown eyes smiled back at his baby blues, and he couldn't be happier. Well . . . they could go back to his room and they'ed stop sleepin' apart . . .That'd make him really really happy.
Don't matter what you say
Don't matter what you do
She smiled and felt tingles all over when he leaned in for another kiss, he had this happy humming in his chest that made her laugh and roll over to straddle his thigh for more. These little moments they got to have, were what got her through the day. The thought of this new life was what helped her get up in the morning. His smile and those eyes made it even better. She giggled deviously at the bite he left on the inside of her neck. "Careful I have to be a hickey-less mermaid tomorrow" She whined gently. He whined like a puppy having his bone taken away. "Awww Poor baby".
I only wanna do bad things to you
So good
That you can't explain it
what can I say?
It's complicated
He watched her move lower and underneath the blanket they had laying out in the back, "Uh babe" He wondered for a second what she was doing, until he felt her pull at his board shorts. "Yessss?" She asked giggling like that again, like . . .Cute but . . .Evil.
I can't explain it
I love the pain
and I love the way your breath numbs me like novacaine
and we are always high
Keep it strange
Okay , Yeah I'm insane
But you the same
How her head disappearing under the blanket was kinda cute. But he felt his shorts being pulled at. "Uh babe?. . ." The drawstring on his shorts was pulled . . . "Oh" He wiped a hand down his face, eyes nervous but with a huge 'Ohmygodshe'sreallydoingwhatIthinkshe'sdoing' Smile on his face. She was giggling at his reaction. He panicked, leaning over her quickly and locked all the doors accidentally hitting the van's alarm. Hand gripping the seat beside them, the other not sure what to do with. "Oh fu- Whhheeewwww" He was trying to breathe, feeling that build up come up fast. She's . . . Oh holy tony hawk she's . . . He shut off the alarm, trying so hard to focus. Tossing around the keys trying to catch them, just as he accidentally hit the radio and bass system, before dropping them.
Just as it couldn't get any more complicated his phone was going off. It was Don . . . He grabbed his phone, answered it, before hanging up on his brother, after he accidentally made a noise from the performance she was giving under the old blanket.
Let me paint the picture
Couch by the kitchen
Nothin' but your heels on
Losin' our religion
"Babe" He moaned out leaning his head back and breathing hard. The sight of her moving slowly up and down under the covers, her head bobbing and the feeling her devious giggle sending humms he'd never felt before straight across his lower body. "Your so big" she complained under the covers to tease him even more, as if that was a problem for her.
"Oh sorry bro" He panicked and threw his phone across the van hearing it hit the back doors. Anyone who passed by would wonder what was going on in the green Cowabunga carl van, shades pulled, lights going off. The alarm that went off and on startling a passerby.
You're my pretty little vixen
and I'm the voice inside your head that keeps tellin' you to listen
To all the bad things I say and you said-
I want you forever even when were not together
Scars on my body so I can take you wherever
I want you forever even when were not together
scars on my body I can look at you whenever
Donatello looked at his phone confused. Michelangelo answered, but hung up on him? What on earth was he doing? He let it go, leaning back in his computer chair and playing with a paddle ball toy. He slurped back the rest of his Monster drink, eyes glazed over with a weary tiredness. Those eyes stopped dead in their tracks. Something over one of his main work desks, something was moved. He knew it, something was shifted. There was a disturbance in the force when his shield was down. Brown eyes shifted across the surface of his desk, contemplating and verifying systematically with the last mental picture of how things looked when he left it.
He kept all the important and more private things locked away from Mikey's prying eyes, his younger brother had such child like curiosity he had to take extra security measures with some things, like Journals and things he was counting on later for research . . .But what was missing?
The sound of footsteps coming in after the elevator landed and the bars shifted with a metal slam and screech. Raph had just come home.
"Hey" His largest built brother passed by with a passing glance and gave a quick greeting. "Heyyyy" Donatello looked under his desk for any missing papers that might've been pushed off . . . Raph wouldn't bother with his desk, so he didn't ask. But what was missing? Something was missing and that meant someone was into his things on his desk, and that meant . . . "Mikey".
Am I out of my head
Am I out of my mind?
If you only knew the bad things I like
Don't think that I can explain it
what can I say it's complicated
Bethany was fast asleep on his bed, he kept a blanket close and crashed on the floor just beside her. Considering his bed was on the floor it didn't make much difference, but he could say he was respectful of her at least, even in his 'state' of mind. He was about to turn over and just as he did, she was totally asleep, facing his direction. Her hand and right arm was half way off the bed, and he let it touch his. It was innocent, and doable, and he could do that for her if that's what she wanted. He could give this much without compromising himself or her honor. He looked up and turned off the lamp just above their heads on the low stand, letting the room turn to black, in the comforting quiet of her slow breaths, and the occasional hum she made while she was dreaming.
Somehow this was enough, maybe just having her in the vicinity was enough to satisfy that part of him. Just having her close for one night wouldn't kill him, no matter how tempted he was to cuddle up behind her.
No matter what you say
No matter what you do
I only wanna do bad things to you
So good that you can't explain it
what can I say It's Complicated
Brandace had retreated to the guest bedroom, Bethany and Kelly weren't home so she could look this over with some privacy.
The handwritten pages, and a notebook that was inside, torn papers had made it thin.
She noticed the dates at the top, and this was one was listed . . .Three years ago, in March, on the 22nd.
First week of noticeable symptoms, he shows basic signs of irritability, and for the third day in a row has confined himself to his room. Shows lack of interest in sociability with the family, and even skipped on routine family based activities. Leonardo attempted to convince him to leave his room, attempt failed and resulted in a broken door. -Note to self ( Fix Raph's door)-
She wasn't familiar with the brothers styles of handwriting except for Raphael's, but from what she was reading this sounded logically based, and Leonardo was placed in the second person perspective so . . .Donatello, had to be.
The way we love
is so unique
the way we touch
I'm shiverin'
no one has to get it, just you and me
Guess we're just livin'
Between the sheets
Kelly felt the cold of the floor under her hand, and could feel the Van shake when they moved together. He was almost there and she was almost there, and it felt perfect. She felt whole, and when he hit that high and she screamed against his chest . . . Michelangelo's face turned into a tired happy smile, shaking a little bit and Kelly felt a weird burst of energy, like she could do this for hours. "Oh my god" She wiped sweat from his forehead for him with his mask that he had slipped off. "Whew" He laughed letting her kiss him quick and laugh with him. Could it get any better than this?
"We just . . . Oh my god we just-" She laughed shaking her head, and those big brown eyes were just as happy as his were . . .
"-Made a mess" Michelangelo looked under the covers, lifting it up like a tent so Kelly could see. "Oh my god we did . . ." She laughed hysterically, while he tried to clean up as best as he could with the blanket they were using.
"Do you see my phone?" he looked around helplessly, still smiling. Falling over to find it.
"You threw it that way" She pointed, looking around for all of her clothes.
I want you forever even when we're not together
Scars on my body so I can take you wherever like
I want you forever even when we're not together
Scars on my body I can look at you whenever
Yeah Baby
She was in deep with whatever she was reading, was this a sickness that reoccurs? But with all the Animal planet print out's it didn't seem that way, there was nothing about being ill in here. Brandace turned a page reading the next one, dated a week after the first, three years ago
-Symptoms intensified. He says he doesn't remember falling asleep in the woods. We've been invited to use Casey's grandmother's house in Northampton's countryside. I noticed some territory issues and brought it up at a impromptu family meeting that didn't involve splinter, so as a family we agreed to divide sections of the house and woods incase of discomfort, aggressiveness, or need of privacy. The results were favorable, cases of broken items and aggressive outbursts are at the lowest they've been in years.
Raphael however ventured off to his side of the woods, North East section with the giant boulder formation as a divide, and did not return around his usual passing out time. Mikey and Casey went out to look for him and found him asleep against a tree with a campfire blazing around 4 A.M. When asked he claims he doesnt remember what he did before he fell asleep, or falling asleep in the first place.
-Two days later, updated note- Raph fell off the roof, his sleeping patterns have been extremely unusual since we've been here. He fell asleep near the chimney and fell off outside of April and Casey's bedroom window.
Am I out of my head? Am I out of my Mind?
If you only knew the bad things I like
Don't think that I can explain it
What can I say?
It's complicated
So he's a bad sleeper? Since she's known him she hasn't noticed anything like that. The next entry was a whole day later when Donatello wrote how Raph and Leonardo had verbally bitten each other's heads off in the kitchen and noted everything from their aggressive tension towards the other, and . . . There was a sketch.
Brandace stared at it for almost a full minute. It was a sketch of Raph's eye? Or an eye itself, and the pupil was dilated and then a second sketch showing it's widened again. She thought about his eyes, and how intense they were already.
This was starting to give her shivers, and she felt like she was stumbling onto something that was extremely private, so private that he gave her this . . . To tell her about it.
No matter what you say
No matter what you do
I only wanna do bad things to you
So good
that you can't explain it, what can I say?
It's complicated
She read about things she could only imagine him doing.
There was a recent entry in here . . . and she was in it.
Brandace felt her heart stammer in her chest.
-Weekly update, this is third argument he has had with Leonardo over having Brandace in proximity. Showing understandable and credible concerns over her being too far from him. Basic instinct to want to shelter and protect. Leonardo's approach to the situation is to keep female friends out of the way until the season is over, due to unpredictability. He's snuck out to see her, and from my understanding he did not make contact with her during that time.
'Wait . . .He's snuck out to see me? Didn't even tell me?'
-Micheangelo comes home with Kelly's scent on him, showing he doesn't share the same precautionary belief. It has created a daily debate between the three. He shows basic signs of heightened performance levels in practice combat. Raphael however has suffered with lack of focus, resulting in lectures and self esteem seems below average. Michelangelo has signs of . . . usual but uncommonly high for even himself, boosts of his own self esteem.
-Make note of personal study objective- Study differences between those who fulfill their seasonal mating periods and those who avoid basic needs and urges to be naturally seasonal. -
Leonardo- Focus (Average) Self Esteem (unreadable, but I feel as though he is lying) Performance levels (High due to added levels of aggression and testosterone)
Michelangelo- (Currently engaging in mating behavior this season) Focus (Above normal compared to previous years) Self esteem (Above Normal , even for him) Performance levels (Precision is top notch, given constant praise and was excused early due to good performance in practice combat)
Raphael- Focus ( below average. Swings are more wild, and more aggressive than usual) Energy levels (Higher than normal at night, but asleep all day and weary during practice combat) Self esteem (Assuming low, any questioning on the subject would be putting my own health at risk) Performance levels (Below average)
He's shown focus issues in the past, but this year he's more distracted than normal.
That was the end of the notes so far, just more print outs of behaviorisms and even a section on odd sleep patterns. Heightened senses . . .This one caught her eye. They all had heightened awareness, sense of smell and taste, and were eating much more than normal. It sounded like how she felt when she was on her time of the month, minus the period cramps, bleeding, and the need for wine and chocolate.
The week before her period though she was part of the larger demographic that would have some serious urges during her ovulation cycle. She didn't even think to realize this about him. She didn't think about it at all other than . . .He might . . .Want her like that, they'd been in enough compromising positions to where she knew how she felt and . . . Now this. He felt that way too . . . Was he embarrassed?
This was written only in the months of March, April, May. Only one year was marked up in February to March. The most recent one . . .Was this month.
That's why he's been acting like this . . . Like he wants me but then runs away?
Part of her wanted to call him, the other half voiced an opinion that maybe she'd give him a day so he'd know she gave this some serious attention.
'So he's just . . .' She laughed a little bit. 'The poor guy is pent up' She smiled to herself and let her head-rest in her hand, sliding down to her mouth to cover her smirk.
She picked up her phone, but not to call Raph.
She bit her lip and waited, finally hearing a little "Hellllooooooo?"
"So . . . You knew this whole time didn't you? This explains all of your damn hickey's and Mikey coming over to see you all the time".
There was a pause, and a gasp on the end "(GASP) Wait, do you know!? Oh my god do you really know?"
"Yeah I know" Brandace admitted, leaning back in the bed and laying on it sideways.
"THANK GOD! I felt so bad for hiding it cause like, you thought was was ignoring you and you were all sad but like, you know now so it's ALL good!"
"Your with Joker boy right now aren't you?" Brandace asked smirking and rolling her eyes.
"Uhm, hehee!- (A familiar voice in the background) - HEyyyyyyyy What's up girllll!?"
"Hello dear" Brandace referred to Michelangelo on the other end. Now it all made some sense but . . . Big Red still hadn't confronted her about it, and now she had to readjust and think about him first. This whole time she'd been so caught up in her own head, now he was the one that needed some compassion and understanding.
"You two have a lovely evening" Brandace bid them adieu as they both said a very happy and loud "BYYYYYEEEEEEeeeeeeee!"
'I love you, It's okay'. She texted that to her Mister, and hoped he'd talk to her about it when he was ready.
The idea of him having trouble sleeping around her was kind of a turn on, and she rolled over with a groan and defeatedly pulled the covers up. He wasn't the only one who was going to have a restless night.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I'm sorry it's been so long. This was a big push just to get back into the flow of things. It's been a very . . . Crazy two years. So getting this up to you guys makes me feel much better. It hasn't been abandoned, I've just been in a serious writing rut. Sometimes when you love another life that isn't your own, so much, it feels defeating to write about. When a temporary depression hits you like that, just try to shift it as best as you can with your feelings. I flipped it around and shifted the feeling to 'If I could live there, It would go like this' and then you can give it your best.
(Chapter 81 Preview) : Siren Skin, and the Honu