I don't even make it to the floor before I'm overcome with exhaustion.
That meltdown drained all of my energy which, after nearly a week of full-blown fights and almost no sleep, wasn't that much to begin with.
What I wouldn't give to be sinking into bed right now.
No, this is more important to me. For Raph, I'm going to hang on. Rest can come later.
Except I'm stalling about what to say. Again. Come on, think of something before the silence settles in…
Maybe Raph has an idea. I'll let him start the conversation.
What do you want to talk about, Raph?
I can tell by the way his forehead is scrunched that he's thinking hard. Maybe this is just as difficult for him as it is for me…expecting two people to hold a conversation after years of trying to avoid it. Of course, it's a struggle for both of us. That makes me feel a little better.
Why don't ya tell me how ya managed ta get me in a sleeper hold the other day? I didn't think it was possible with those scrawny arm of yers, but I was pretty sure there for a second that I was gonna pass out.
There's that smile again…teasing…and genuine…
Raph isn't trying to be snide. That's his attempt at a compliment. And evidently his way of starting a discussion.
Alright, Raph. If you can make the effort then I can, too.
Well, you see…the sleeper hold actually doesn't require an excess of physical strength. It depends more on how well you apply it….
Wow. He's acting like he truly wants to be here. Listening and responding to everything I have to say.
There's no roll of the eyes, no loud scoff, no sarcasm, no screaming, and, best of all, no walking away.
It feels so good to be able to finally talk to him, I just can't stop. A flood of words pour out of my mouth until I have nothing left and the room goes quiet again.
All of my reserve energy is gone. My eyelids feel so heavy, I don't think I can keep them open much longer.
Hey, Leo, how long do ya s'pose we've been in here?
The question barely registers with me. I really have no clue. It feels like forever.
I'm definitely nodding off now. Part of me is trying to fight it while another one wants to just give in.
If I just rest my head…
Do ya think Splinter's gonna let us out anytime soon?
I think I mumble a response.
Maybe he will, Raph. Or maybe he won't.
But whenever he does, I'll still want to talk more with you.
~End~
