Thomas had returned from the airport in San Jose just in time to escort Don and Gabby back to the same destination. It was nearly ten-thirty in the evening and it would take them nearly ninety minutes to get back to the airport. Don didn't expect to be in the air until after midnight, which only made him glad he chose the larger jet for the trip east. It, at least, had sleeping berths!
Earlier in the evening, Seth had taken the Lear to Japan, leaving Don's larger 737 for the flight to New York. Don felt the larger plane would be less claustrophobic for Gabby than the smaller Lear, remembering well her reaction to flying only a few days before. The 737 would be familiar territory to her, as well.
She was no longer the terrified girl Don had brought to California less than a week ago. Instead of cowering in the far corner of her seat, Gabby sat straight and confident as they rode along the highway. Don could still sense a bit of attitude with her – the way she confronted him in the gym about his nephews earlier – but he knew that eventually training her would turn that around. Hopefully it would happen sooner rather than later.
Don watched her out of the corner of his eye as she stared straight ahead. He knew she would accept the offer to fly back, if only to see the professor. But he was still a little uncertain how she would actually react to flying again.
Once they arrived at the airport, Gabriella was so focused on seeing her father that she was first out of the sedan. She took the stairs to the jet three steps at a time. Don laughed as he watched her and shook his head in amusement as he took his time up the steps. Unlike when they had arrived, Gabby paid no attention to the ground crew that readied the plane. It was quite a contrast, that was for sure!
His niece was already belted in when he finally came through the doorway. "You seem eager, Gabby?" he commented to her as he went to the kitchen area to grab a bottle of water. She, again, had the window seat.
" I miss him!! " she said excitedly. " I can't believe you're moving him out to Mike's to be with us!! Thank you so much!!"
" He needs a warmer climate. I've squared it with Rahab that he can use the guesthouse. I will be leaving for Europe for a couple of weeks after we get back so I've arranged for a team of nurses to rotate around his needs. That way, you can visit him during your one hour each evening so you don't have to worry about helping him." Don then changed the subject before she could protest, "You may want to use the sleeping quarters once we level off since this flight will take about five hours. With all that you've gone through today, you will need the rest."
Gabby looked at Don and smiled, " Sounds like a plan!" and resumed looking out the window. After a moment, she glanced over at her uncle. He was shuffling through his desk drawer across from where she sat. Finding what he was looking for, Don walked back over and sat down in the seat next to hers. He had some papers in his hand and was reading them and rather quickly, too! He took a sip from his water bottle and then placed it in the holder in front of him.
"Why? Why are you doing this for me?" she finally asked him. "After what I did this afternoon and all – I'm just so confused by everything." Her smile was gone, replaced with a look of consternation.
Don looked over at her and nodded his head, as if to confirm how she felt. Patting her hand affectionately, he told her, "I made a promise to you last Sunday! I like to keep my promises." He paused then, understanding Gabby's reason for asking the question she did. Finally, he explained to her, " That doesn't dismiss the fact that I was very angry with you for doing what you did! That's not news, okay. Your action caused a lot of grief for Devon and Seth." He looked sternly at her, but then softened, " However, I realized that you were experiencing a type of freedom for the first time. You forgot, momentarily, where you were and what you were! It took courage to go to that courtyard by yourself, Gabby, but at the same time it was foolish to do so! As I said earlier, a lot could have happened to you that would not have been pleasant." Don's expression seemed sad, almost as if he was visualizing the many ugly scenarios that could have happened to her.
Gabby lowered her head at his rebuke, her face flushed with guilt. But, Don took her chin in his right hand and lifted her face to where she was looking up at him again, "However, you also showed considerably maturity during the tribunal! To be honest, I half expected you to collapse! It's not an easy thing to stand before us like you did!" He smiled, continuing, "You showed a strength that wasn't there a week ago – and for that, I am quite proud of you!" Don then leaned in and gave her a fatherly peck on her forehead.
Gabby returned the expression weakly and then offered, "I'm really sorry. I feel so bad for Devon and Seth."
"And you should! But, that's all in the past, now. I want you to focus on our visit with the professor and then, when we return to California, on your training! Let today's experiences motivate you in that endeavor!" Don suggested. He then went back to his paperwork.
Gabby nodded and resumed to look out the small window. She was elated with the prospect of returning to her surrogate father and overwhelmed with joy in knowing he would be coming out west to live with her. She considered Don's words and realized that even though he was quite formidable when he was angry, he cared deeply. Rahab was right!
As the jet started across the tarmac, Gabriella remembered her fear of flying. Don saw the abrupt change in her attitude and noticed her hands grip the arm rests. There was just a hint of trembling in her, so he quickly put his right arm around her shoulders to comfort her. Gabby accepted it willingly, trying to gather her courage. She did not panic this time, though, but focused on the tarmac as it sped faster and faster under the jet.
Before long, the jet lifted off the ground. Gabby felt the power of the aircraft as it ascended and the landing gear as it clunked up and into the fuselage. The plane quickly gained altitude, flying in a westerly direction, banking slowly around until they were finally heading east across the Sierras. She watched the evening lights in the cities below her become more miniature by the second. Off in the distance, she noticed a sudden glow in the night sky and realized that a late summer storm was brewing over the mountains. It happened again in an instant. It was lightening and the clouds were radiant like the Fourth of July! She gasped in awe and it was then that her fear of flying dissipated.
"There's a storm over there!" she cried out excitedly. Don leaned over and looked through the porthole. "Looks like it! I'll have the pilot take a detour so you can get a closer look!" He leaned back in his seat and started to pick up the intercom phone above him.
Gabby protested, " No, that's okay, I can see it well enough from here!" and continued watching the light show. She then saw several vertical bolts fly across the dark distant horizon. "I've heard of vertical lightening before but this is the first time I've actually seen it!" She turned back toward him. Her smile was bigger than Don had ever seen it. He was glad she was having a better experience this time. For all she had been through that day, Gabby needed something positive. She went back to watching the storm, her face pressed up against the glass, completely enthralled!
Once the jet had leveled off, Don put his papers down and stood up. He extended a hand to help Gabby up, " You must rest now! Let me show you where the sleeping quarters are." She stood up out of her seat, grabbed her backpack, and went with him to the very rear of the plane.
There were four sections of double berths lying along each side of the plane with a narrow corridor in between them. Don told Gabby to take the farthest one in the back, which would put her closer to the rear restroom. He would then take the section up front. A drape separated each to offer privacy.
Once she was secure behind the fabric partition, Gabby disrobed and put her nightgown on. She then climbed up into the top berth. She had never experienced bunk beds before, especially on a jet! She liked being up high like she was and noticed that her berth had a small round porthole to look out of. A railing was built in along the outer edge of the bed to keep the occupant from falling out during flight. Gabby decided to set it up as a precaution. Remembering the jostling she experienced only a few days before when the jet found the updrafts of the Sierras, Gabby was afraid she would get bounced out of bed! It would have been a hard landing, considering the narrowness of the walkway.
Laying back and thinking about the events of the day, a bit of melancholy seeped into her good mood. Gabby was still sad about Seth leaving and Devon being punished, but it was mixed up with the joy of seeing the professor again. All in all, she decided that whatever was in store for her in the days to come, if she could willingly get on a jet and fly clear across the country, she could meet the challenges in store for her. The gentle glide of the jet finally relaxed her and before she knew it, Gabby was asleep.
Gabby woke up to her ears popping as the jet descended down from it's high altitude flight. They were arriving in New York LaGuardia International Airport right on schedule. Don came to her berth and told her that she could catch a few more hours of sleep if she wanted to. Even though it was now light out, with the three-hour time factor, it was really about five-thirty in the morning, California time.
The jet was taxied to his personal hanger where it remained untouched by the ground crew. Since there wasn't a rush to disembark, Don didn't want any activity around the plane to disturb him and his niece. He went back to his berth to catch a few more hours, himself, so Gabby decided to do the same. She was tired and didn't want to look worn out for the professor.
After their late breakfast, they were escorted by limousine through the streets of New York City to the New York Weill Cornell Medical Center. That was where the professor was being cared for and where Don had given millions of dollars in donations towards advancement in medicine. His assistance made it one of the world's best medical establishments, especially in the field of cancer research.
It was noon and Gabby was transfixed with the amount of people in the city as they rushed to get their lunches at the various restaurants in the area. The limousine slowly made it's way down 68th street towards the hospital.
Gabriella had never been to this part of New York before. It was quite overwhelming for her and she was glad they were in a car with tinted windows!
Gabby asked as she continued to stare out the window, "Seth said a few days ago that you used to live in New York City." Don sighed, " For a time, yes we did." He continued to stare straight ahead.
He remembered well the first twenty years living in the sewers. They were innocent times compared to all that had happened since, but they were still fraught with dangers and excitement - and, now for all of them, memories.
" Where did you live? Seth didn't tell me." Gabby asked, not realizing Don's mood had changed. She was too distracted with the traffic, the noise, and all the people! Carmel was nothing like New York! Gabby was quite impressed, to say the least.
Don didn't reply at first, but sat there mulling over his answer. He couldn't blame Gabby for asking such a question; it was perfectly natural for her to ask that. Don decided a little history lesson might be good for her; but how he wished his other nieces and nephews could be present to hear as well. Though they had been told about it year ago, they always treated it like a fable or tale, which was quite irritating to him. Don said simply, "My brothers and I lived in the sewers, Gabby."
She turned around and looked at her uncle, smiling a little and said, "You're kidding, right?"
He was not and she could tell he was quite serious. " Why?" she asked him.
Don looked full at her and explained, his expression flat, "Back then, the only sentient beings were humans. Had we been found out, we would have been sent to some lab and experimented on. Our sensei, Splinter, taught us how to live in the sewers and how to protect ourselves to survive. We had enemies, though, who tried to expose us and almost did. But, we prevailed together against them and have prevailed, since then, against all who would try to do us harm. If not for our being discovered when we traveled west to seek a warmer climate and then eventually protected by an amendment in the constitution, we would still be in hiding. That is why I was so impatient with your need to be cloaked. It brought back all the memories of hiding during those times."
Gabby was thoughtful after Don finished his abbreviated life story. She was quite surprised by his words.
There was much more about him and his brothers that he elected not to tell her, but the crux of it was, Don's past influenced the choices he made about his present and his future. Never again would he ever live that way – not if he had anything to do about it – and never would any of those that he loved so dearly!
Then, she asked him one more question, " Have you ever gone back to visit, to see your old home since then?"
"No and I have no interest in doing so - ever!" was his tart reply.
" I hope I didn't offend you." She shyly asked. Gabby wasn't sure if he was angry with her or just the memories that her question brought up.
" Not at all, my dear. Your question was perfectly understandable. Many people enjoy revisiting their old home because it brings back fond memories. I am afraid that the memories I have of mine are not so fondly remembered! We had a hard time finding enough food to eat, especially in the winter months. Those months were difficult with the cold. We turtles do not do well in cold weather! " he smiled at her. "However, there were some good times, I guess. But, it was all about surviving." Don's expression became serious again as he continued, "If not for starvation and the cold, then it was the people who would threaten our existence. It was a very difficult period and one my brothers and I have tried to keep our families free from experiencing themselves!"
Gabby became reflective, considering all that Don had shared with her. Finally, she told him, " I think you've all done a remarkable job at it!" She then went back to the window to observe the people walking along the side of the road.
Don looked at her and smiled. She certainly had come along way!
The people on the hospital staff were very accommodating to Don and Gabby. They ushered them through the hallways, keeping people in their rooms who would not understand the uniqueness of this wealthy benefactor. Gabby walked beside him, her arm entwined with his for security. She was quite nervous being in such a place, but it was also exhilarating since she had some adequate medical knowledge, thanks to the professor's teaching. Gabby was on pins and needles to see him, as well.
Finally, they arrived at his room. Don turned towards his niece and told her softly to stay outside while he went in first. Gabby did not want to comply, her eagerness to see her surrogate father nearly exploding out of her. But, Don took her hands and squeezed them gently, but at the same time gave her a stern look. She nodded reluctantly; staying with one of the hospitality staff members while Don went into the room. She heard the professor's voice call out to her uncle and then there was some dialog, but it was all hushed. The professor sounded weak compared to how he sounded just last Sunday! This alarmed Gabby terribly. However, hard as it was, she complied with Don's request for her to stay outside the room.
Finally, Don came out and told Gabby, " You may go in, now. But, I want you to keep yourself in check. Do not jump on him or hug him too tightly. He's had a rough go of it, Gabby!"
Don stayed outside the room while his niece went in. He sat down in a chair provided for him and went over the professor's health records with the day nurse.
Gabby walked slowly into the room and over to the bed where her 'father' lay. He had his eyes closed, but when he heard her approach, he opened them and smiled, addressing her weakly, " Gabriella, my dear!" and then reached for her.
She took his hands in hers and cried openly, " I've missed you so much, Father!" and pushed her face down into his hands. He took her into him and she gently laid her head on his chest, allowing her tears to flow freely.
He allowed her to rest her head on him, stroking it affectionately while she sobbed, " I've missed you as well, Daughter!" he said quietly. "How does it go with you in California?" he asked her.
Gabby collected herself and sat up. Refraining from telling him of her more recent predicament, she said she was adjusting well.
" Are you behaving yourself, Gabby? You know how determined you can be!" he admonished her.
" I am trying, Father. It is - challenging; their ways are so different from ours." she replied honestly without sharing why.
" Good! I am glad that you are not getting your own way all the time!" and the professor smiled at her.
She had to smile back at him for his insight. He must have known the move would be difficult for her in more ways than one. He had been friends with Don for many years; it was only expected that the professor was knowledgeable about who and what Don was.
" I am pleased that you are moving out to California," she said excitedly.
" Yes, I am, too, if only to be closer to you. The doctors felt a warmer climate would be better suited for me. Don has informed me that I will be staying in the guesthouse at Mike's. I am so indebted to Donatello, Gabby! You have no idea how much so. He is the most generous person I have ever known and I hope you appreciate all that he is doing for us! " her father said, his eyes filling with tears.
Gabby had to agree, considering the expense her uncle had gone to with her father's treatment and, now, moving him to California. However, she also wanted so much to tell him of her training that would be starting in just a few days and the heartache she was going through over losing Seth to Japan. She had always shared with him, but given his current health, she knew that it was wiser to limit such information until he was stronger. In that moment, she wished she could just move back to their old house with the professor, but she realized that her life there was over.
It saddened Gabriella to think that she would never see their home again. The trip was going to be a short one, so she dare not ask Don to drive her up to Connecticut to see the old house one last time. Feeling her face flush hot with emotion and her eyes start to tear up, Gabby pushed it all back and resumed her smile and happy expression. It would do the professor little good to see her cry over this. It was important to keep him upbeat and positive so that his coming move would be free from any unnecessary worries.
They talked for a good long time about many things. She shared some about her excursion into Carmel, avoiding telling him anything about the karaoke bar. He laughed about her falling into the surf when Seth got her all wet and was equally amused that she had successfully swept him down on his posterior! He was interested in the music store and the proprietor who showed such kindness towards her. The professor was quite interested in this person and asked Gabby what her name was. "Cassandra!" she replied. He looked thoughtfully at her and said, " If I am feeling up to it some day, I would like to meet this Cassandra while I am recuperating at Mike's!"
Finally, Don came in to tell them that their time was up. "Gabby, we need to let your father rest, now. We'll have tomorrow, and then on Sunday he'll be flying back with us! "
Gabby hated to leave, but she noticed how weary her father was. She kissed him gently on the forehead and then left with Don. The one thing that impressed her most about seeing her father again, he looked terribly frail and weak.
Gabby was quiet for the longest time in the car. Thomas drove them north along a less crowded street, avoiding many of the heavily traveled roadways. Before too long, they were on a turnpike. " Where are we going?" Gabriella asked.
Don replied, " North for a bit. There is still several hours of daylight and I thought a little side trip would be nice." He smiled but didn't say anything more to her.
They traveled north for a while. Thomas had stopped at a favorite deli and had a basket of food put together so that they would not have to stop. Don and Gabby ate from it and soon the sedan crossed the Connecticut state line. Don knew they would be. Gabby was the only one unaware.
" I'm getting a little stiff from sitting so long." Gabby said. " Are we going to stop at all?"
Don replied, " Not too much farther, Gabby. Be patient, okay?"
"I think I have been. I also have to go!" She was tired of being in the car and wanted to stretch her legs, as well as do other things.
" It's only been a couple of hours! And you wanted to drive clear across the country by car less than a week ago!" he laughed. " You can wait a few minutes longer I think!"
Gabby thought it was quite unfair to be stuck in the car for so long and without any stops. It wasn't like the limo had restroom facilities. What did Don expect from her anyway? She started to feel that edge of stubbornness creep back into her. Just when she was about to give her uncle a piece of her mind, the sedan took an exit off of the highway. Gabby's attention to her discomfort was momentarily distracted. She looked out the window and recognized some of the landmarks. She was near her home! A flood of mixed feelings enveloped her as she wrestled with the memories it conjured up.
Gabriella wasn't sure if she wanted to see her home again, now! She didn't trust her ability to keep from crying and she wasn't sure if she would be able to leave the house again. Why did Don bring her here? What was he thinking? Just a while ago she had lamented about wanting to see it one last time. Now that she was here.... She was starting to get angry, now; especially when she thought that maybe he was testing her! Again, Gabby felt as if she was being manipulated, which only intensified how she was feeling presently.
As Thomas slowed down and pulled up into the circular driveway, Gabby saw the brownstone house where she had spent the past fifteen years with the professor. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to gain control of the emotions that welled up within her. "Why didn't you tell me we would be coming here?" she asked hoarsely, her body shaking.
Don didn't reply but just smiled at her. He then exited the car and implored Gabby to follow suit.
At first she resisted, " I'm not so sure it's a good thing for me to get out, Don!" The war waging within her was escalating and she was afraid of the end results. " I never thought I would see it again and - now.... here I am!" she cried. Gabby was more afraid that she would turn back to her old ways and fight to stay there.
" You need to do this Gabby! Take my hand - please!" Don implored.
It was a test! "It's been less than a week and you expect me to just waltz in there, look around, visit this room or that, and then calmly get back in the car and return to California?" she stammered emotionally.
" Yes, I do! Now, give me your hand!" he replied sternly. "Besides, remember? You said you had to 'go'. Here's your stop!"
Gabby shook her head then reluctantly did as she was told. Don gently pulled her out of the car. He had the keys to the house and, with Gabby's arm securely interlaced with his, walked her up the steps and unlocked the front door. She trembled out of both fear and expectation. Home! How could she return now, so soon, and in one day or one hour - leave again?
He led her into the foyer. The smells were the same to her and the furniture was where it was the last time she stood there. A week before she was still living here, exasperated with the professor for 'conspiring' behind her back to send her away. She remembered well the argument that day. She felt betrayed. Although he had told her the week before she left, she thought that he was threatening her again for being so abstinent. The reality of it didn't set in until a few days later. He has been too persistent in getting Gabby to pack and it was out of character for him. When she finally accepted the truth that he had arranged for her departure, she had been livid!
The stairs to the second story faced her. Gabby hesitantly walked towards them and slowly ascended each step. Don let her and watched - waiting to see what she would do. Gabby disappeared into her old bedroom. Minutes passed. Finally, Don took to the stairs. He listened as he slowly ascended. Finally, standing at the threshold of her bedroom, he saw that Gabby was sitting on her bed. She had her head bowed into her lap as she cried softly. It was still home to her and would never be anything else. No matter where she lived, this would be where her heart longed for. The fine home that Mike had could not compare with how she felt about hers. Why had Don brought her here? What did he expect? She remembered too well her determined spirit less than a week ago and how she fought against being taken away. Gabby was afraid! She feared that, in the next few moments, she would willingly reenact that awful day they came for her.
Don sat down next to his niece and wrapped his left arm around her shoulders. " Why did you bring me here?" she sniffled.
" I think you have come a long way, Gabby. You've come far in such a short amount of time. You have an inner strength that you've denied yourself. This house, this home has been keeping you from tapping into it. You need to be greater than this. I'm not saying you have to forget it; you just need to move on. You will know when it's time to leave. I'm not going to force the issue. It'll be up to you." Don explained, his voice soft and warm.
Gabby's turmoil eased just a bit. He wasn't going to be looking at his watch and determine when they would be leaving? What if she didn't want to go? What about the professor? Would Don still take him back to California if she chose to stay at the house? Gabby was quite confused - and irritated that Don would do this.
After a while, she exclaimed, " It doesn't make sense, Don. You have my father prepared to go out to Mike's and now you bring me here and tell me that leaving again will be up to me? How can I stay here if he isn't? " she complained, sobbing and leaning into Don. He embraced her as she shook from her crying. She finally realized the truth of her feelings, "The professor has been my whole life! Home was always where we were, not what we lived in!" she cried.
Don smiled and kissed the top of her head, " Exactly, my dear."
There wasn't any way that Gabby could stay at her old home, not with the professor moving out to California. Not that Don would have let her if she had decided to. He had gambled that afternoon, taking a chance of repeating the previous week's drama. But he knew her love for her surrogate father was not based on the building they had lived in, but on their relationship. Home was not made of mortar, bricks, or wood, but of memories, relationships, and love. Gabby only wanted to return to the professor. Now that he would be living out in California and within the estate at Big Sur, Gabby could now focus her entire being on her training and not in trying to get back to Connecticut!
It was not hard for her to walk away from the house, not as hard as she had thought it would be. After finally visiting the restroom, Gabby visited each part of the house. She would sit for a while in each room to soak up whatever history was there for her. She even went up into the attic. Don made sure she kept the stairs down, though - he would not make the same mistake twice in underestimating her!
Gabby thought it completely hilarious, knowing Don the way she did now. Realizing that she was able to give him the slip first time out, her laughter echoed through the top portion of the house.
"Hey, you didn't have to destroy an armoire to get up there like I did!" he protested defensively.
" I just thought it amusing that I out-foxed you, is all!" she teased him from within the attic.
" You did NOT out-fox me, okay!" Don was getting offended at her suggestion. He was in her bedroom sitting on her bed. Clearly, he was annoyed at the memory of last Sunday.
" Okay, gee - getting a bit sensitive, are we?" Gabby pestered good- naturedly as she stepped down from the attic stairs. She pushed the steps up and they neatly returned to the ceiling. She saw some items in her closet that she had missed in packing, but decided to just leave them.
" YOU can be just as annoying as your father, you know that!" Don teased back. Gabby thought that even more amusing, thinking of Raph, and giggled, causing Don to laugh as well.
.
The gymnastic apparatuses were still outside, of course, and Don was quite surprised to see them. " You work these?" he asked Gabby. She only nodded.
He thought for a moment and then asked her, " Would you mind showing me?"
" I'm not necessarily dressed for it, but I guess I could do a little bit." Gabby replied. Fortunately, she had chosen to wear pull-on pants that morning and a leotard shirt. She took off the jacket she wore and her shoes. Walking over to the shorter of the two uneven bars, she faced it, took a deep breath, and then did a short run. She bounded and then leaped over the smaller bar, pushing against it with her hands to force her up to the taller one. She then grabbed the top rail with her hands evenly spaced apart. Her momentum pulled her under and over that one and then she reversed her direction. As she gained speed, she allowed herself to be thrown up into the air. Gabby then did twists and back flips as she maneuvered the bars. Don watched with fascination, surprised that she had learned something like this without the proper guidance. He knew the professor was not very athletic, so he couldn't have taught her.
Finally, she finished her routine with a triple swing around on the bars and a flying three-quarter half gainer, landing full on the flat of her feet - and nailed it!
" How did you manage to learn how to use them?" Don asked, smiling as she came back to retrieve her jacket.
As she was putting it back on, she replied casually, " The professor was able to procure some teaching aid DVD's from the athletic department at the college. I can basically learn anything by watching tapes or DVD's. I learned ballet and painting that way, too."
Don didn't know any of this and wondered why the professor hadn't told him. He thought that maybe Jordan was afraid if Don knew the extent of Gabby's proficiency at learning, he would have taken her away sooner. Don just shook his head in amazement.
" Maybe we can have something set up for you like this when we get back to Mike's! Would you like that?" he asked Gabby.
" Given my schedule in the gym, would I have time?" she mused. Gabby was not looking forward to her regime. The thought of being in that basement for ten hours a day and not seeing the sun once daylight savings time ended depressed her.
" I think we could arrange a time for you to use them!" he replied, still affected by what he just witnessed. Don thought to him, "And, maybe convince Mike to let you see his workout tapes in the process!"
As the sedan pulled away from the brownstone, Gabby elected not to turn back in her seat. She kept her eyes focused towards the front. Don noticed this and smiled. This was a good sign, an indicator that she had finally let go and was now ready to face her future.
Earlier in the evening, Seth had taken the Lear to Japan, leaving Don's larger 737 for the flight to New York. Don felt the larger plane would be less claustrophobic for Gabby than the smaller Lear, remembering well her reaction to flying only a few days before. The 737 would be familiar territory to her, as well.
She was no longer the terrified girl Don had brought to California less than a week ago. Instead of cowering in the far corner of her seat, Gabby sat straight and confident as they rode along the highway. Don could still sense a bit of attitude with her – the way she confronted him in the gym about his nephews earlier – but he knew that eventually training her would turn that around. Hopefully it would happen sooner rather than later.
Don watched her out of the corner of his eye as she stared straight ahead. He knew she would accept the offer to fly back, if only to see the professor. But he was still a little uncertain how she would actually react to flying again.
Once they arrived at the airport, Gabriella was so focused on seeing her father that she was first out of the sedan. She took the stairs to the jet three steps at a time. Don laughed as he watched her and shook his head in amusement as he took his time up the steps. Unlike when they had arrived, Gabby paid no attention to the ground crew that readied the plane. It was quite a contrast, that was for sure!
His niece was already belted in when he finally came through the doorway. "You seem eager, Gabby?" he commented to her as he went to the kitchen area to grab a bottle of water. She, again, had the window seat.
" I miss him!! " she said excitedly. " I can't believe you're moving him out to Mike's to be with us!! Thank you so much!!"
" He needs a warmer climate. I've squared it with Rahab that he can use the guesthouse. I will be leaving for Europe for a couple of weeks after we get back so I've arranged for a team of nurses to rotate around his needs. That way, you can visit him during your one hour each evening so you don't have to worry about helping him." Don then changed the subject before she could protest, "You may want to use the sleeping quarters once we level off since this flight will take about five hours. With all that you've gone through today, you will need the rest."
Gabby looked at Don and smiled, " Sounds like a plan!" and resumed looking out the window. After a moment, she glanced over at her uncle. He was shuffling through his desk drawer across from where she sat. Finding what he was looking for, Don walked back over and sat down in the seat next to hers. He had some papers in his hand and was reading them and rather quickly, too! He took a sip from his water bottle and then placed it in the holder in front of him.
"Why? Why are you doing this for me?" she finally asked him. "After what I did this afternoon and all – I'm just so confused by everything." Her smile was gone, replaced with a look of consternation.
Don looked over at her and nodded his head, as if to confirm how she felt. Patting her hand affectionately, he told her, "I made a promise to you last Sunday! I like to keep my promises." He paused then, understanding Gabby's reason for asking the question she did. Finally, he explained to her, " That doesn't dismiss the fact that I was very angry with you for doing what you did! That's not news, okay. Your action caused a lot of grief for Devon and Seth." He looked sternly at her, but then softened, " However, I realized that you were experiencing a type of freedom for the first time. You forgot, momentarily, where you were and what you were! It took courage to go to that courtyard by yourself, Gabby, but at the same time it was foolish to do so! As I said earlier, a lot could have happened to you that would not have been pleasant." Don's expression seemed sad, almost as if he was visualizing the many ugly scenarios that could have happened to her.
Gabby lowered her head at his rebuke, her face flushed with guilt. But, Don took her chin in his right hand and lifted her face to where she was looking up at him again, "However, you also showed considerably maturity during the tribunal! To be honest, I half expected you to collapse! It's not an easy thing to stand before us like you did!" He smiled, continuing, "You showed a strength that wasn't there a week ago – and for that, I am quite proud of you!" Don then leaned in and gave her a fatherly peck on her forehead.
Gabby returned the expression weakly and then offered, "I'm really sorry. I feel so bad for Devon and Seth."
"And you should! But, that's all in the past, now. I want you to focus on our visit with the professor and then, when we return to California, on your training! Let today's experiences motivate you in that endeavor!" Don suggested. He then went back to his paperwork.
Gabby nodded and resumed to look out the small window. She was elated with the prospect of returning to her surrogate father and overwhelmed with joy in knowing he would be coming out west to live with her. She considered Don's words and realized that even though he was quite formidable when he was angry, he cared deeply. Rahab was right!
As the jet started across the tarmac, Gabriella remembered her fear of flying. Don saw the abrupt change in her attitude and noticed her hands grip the arm rests. There was just a hint of trembling in her, so he quickly put his right arm around her shoulders to comfort her. Gabby accepted it willingly, trying to gather her courage. She did not panic this time, though, but focused on the tarmac as it sped faster and faster under the jet.
Before long, the jet lifted off the ground. Gabby felt the power of the aircraft as it ascended and the landing gear as it clunked up and into the fuselage. The plane quickly gained altitude, flying in a westerly direction, banking slowly around until they were finally heading east across the Sierras. She watched the evening lights in the cities below her become more miniature by the second. Off in the distance, she noticed a sudden glow in the night sky and realized that a late summer storm was brewing over the mountains. It happened again in an instant. It was lightening and the clouds were radiant like the Fourth of July! She gasped in awe and it was then that her fear of flying dissipated.
"There's a storm over there!" she cried out excitedly. Don leaned over and looked through the porthole. "Looks like it! I'll have the pilot take a detour so you can get a closer look!" He leaned back in his seat and started to pick up the intercom phone above him.
Gabby protested, " No, that's okay, I can see it well enough from here!" and continued watching the light show. She then saw several vertical bolts fly across the dark distant horizon. "I've heard of vertical lightening before but this is the first time I've actually seen it!" She turned back toward him. Her smile was bigger than Don had ever seen it. He was glad she was having a better experience this time. For all she had been through that day, Gabby needed something positive. She went back to watching the storm, her face pressed up against the glass, completely enthralled!
Once the jet had leveled off, Don put his papers down and stood up. He extended a hand to help Gabby up, " You must rest now! Let me show you where the sleeping quarters are." She stood up out of her seat, grabbed her backpack, and went with him to the very rear of the plane.
There were four sections of double berths lying along each side of the plane with a narrow corridor in between them. Don told Gabby to take the farthest one in the back, which would put her closer to the rear restroom. He would then take the section up front. A drape separated each to offer privacy.
Once she was secure behind the fabric partition, Gabby disrobed and put her nightgown on. She then climbed up into the top berth. She had never experienced bunk beds before, especially on a jet! She liked being up high like she was and noticed that her berth had a small round porthole to look out of. A railing was built in along the outer edge of the bed to keep the occupant from falling out during flight. Gabby decided to set it up as a precaution. Remembering the jostling she experienced only a few days before when the jet found the updrafts of the Sierras, Gabby was afraid she would get bounced out of bed! It would have been a hard landing, considering the narrowness of the walkway.
Laying back and thinking about the events of the day, a bit of melancholy seeped into her good mood. Gabby was still sad about Seth leaving and Devon being punished, but it was mixed up with the joy of seeing the professor again. All in all, she decided that whatever was in store for her in the days to come, if she could willingly get on a jet and fly clear across the country, she could meet the challenges in store for her. The gentle glide of the jet finally relaxed her and before she knew it, Gabby was asleep.
Gabby woke up to her ears popping as the jet descended down from it's high altitude flight. They were arriving in New York LaGuardia International Airport right on schedule. Don came to her berth and told her that she could catch a few more hours of sleep if she wanted to. Even though it was now light out, with the three-hour time factor, it was really about five-thirty in the morning, California time.
The jet was taxied to his personal hanger where it remained untouched by the ground crew. Since there wasn't a rush to disembark, Don didn't want any activity around the plane to disturb him and his niece. He went back to his berth to catch a few more hours, himself, so Gabby decided to do the same. She was tired and didn't want to look worn out for the professor.
After their late breakfast, they were escorted by limousine through the streets of New York City to the New York Weill Cornell Medical Center. That was where the professor was being cared for and where Don had given millions of dollars in donations towards advancement in medicine. His assistance made it one of the world's best medical establishments, especially in the field of cancer research.
It was noon and Gabby was transfixed with the amount of people in the city as they rushed to get their lunches at the various restaurants in the area. The limousine slowly made it's way down 68th street towards the hospital.
Gabriella had never been to this part of New York before. It was quite overwhelming for her and she was glad they were in a car with tinted windows!
Gabby asked as she continued to stare out the window, "Seth said a few days ago that you used to live in New York City." Don sighed, " For a time, yes we did." He continued to stare straight ahead.
He remembered well the first twenty years living in the sewers. They were innocent times compared to all that had happened since, but they were still fraught with dangers and excitement - and, now for all of them, memories.
" Where did you live? Seth didn't tell me." Gabby asked, not realizing Don's mood had changed. She was too distracted with the traffic, the noise, and all the people! Carmel was nothing like New York! Gabby was quite impressed, to say the least.
Don didn't reply at first, but sat there mulling over his answer. He couldn't blame Gabby for asking such a question; it was perfectly natural for her to ask that. Don decided a little history lesson might be good for her; but how he wished his other nieces and nephews could be present to hear as well. Though they had been told about it year ago, they always treated it like a fable or tale, which was quite irritating to him. Don said simply, "My brothers and I lived in the sewers, Gabby."
She turned around and looked at her uncle, smiling a little and said, "You're kidding, right?"
He was not and she could tell he was quite serious. " Why?" she asked him.
Don looked full at her and explained, his expression flat, "Back then, the only sentient beings were humans. Had we been found out, we would have been sent to some lab and experimented on. Our sensei, Splinter, taught us how to live in the sewers and how to protect ourselves to survive. We had enemies, though, who tried to expose us and almost did. But, we prevailed together against them and have prevailed, since then, against all who would try to do us harm. If not for our being discovered when we traveled west to seek a warmer climate and then eventually protected by an amendment in the constitution, we would still be in hiding. That is why I was so impatient with your need to be cloaked. It brought back all the memories of hiding during those times."
Gabby was thoughtful after Don finished his abbreviated life story. She was quite surprised by his words.
There was much more about him and his brothers that he elected not to tell her, but the crux of it was, Don's past influenced the choices he made about his present and his future. Never again would he ever live that way – not if he had anything to do about it – and never would any of those that he loved so dearly!
Then, she asked him one more question, " Have you ever gone back to visit, to see your old home since then?"
"No and I have no interest in doing so - ever!" was his tart reply.
" I hope I didn't offend you." She shyly asked. Gabby wasn't sure if he was angry with her or just the memories that her question brought up.
" Not at all, my dear. Your question was perfectly understandable. Many people enjoy revisiting their old home because it brings back fond memories. I am afraid that the memories I have of mine are not so fondly remembered! We had a hard time finding enough food to eat, especially in the winter months. Those months were difficult with the cold. We turtles do not do well in cold weather! " he smiled at her. "However, there were some good times, I guess. But, it was all about surviving." Don's expression became serious again as he continued, "If not for starvation and the cold, then it was the people who would threaten our existence. It was a very difficult period and one my brothers and I have tried to keep our families free from experiencing themselves!"
Gabby became reflective, considering all that Don had shared with her. Finally, she told him, " I think you've all done a remarkable job at it!" She then went back to the window to observe the people walking along the side of the road.
Don looked at her and smiled. She certainly had come along way!
The people on the hospital staff were very accommodating to Don and Gabby. They ushered them through the hallways, keeping people in their rooms who would not understand the uniqueness of this wealthy benefactor. Gabby walked beside him, her arm entwined with his for security. She was quite nervous being in such a place, but it was also exhilarating since she had some adequate medical knowledge, thanks to the professor's teaching. Gabby was on pins and needles to see him, as well.
Finally, they arrived at his room. Don turned towards his niece and told her softly to stay outside while he went in first. Gabby did not want to comply, her eagerness to see her surrogate father nearly exploding out of her. But, Don took her hands and squeezed them gently, but at the same time gave her a stern look. She nodded reluctantly; staying with one of the hospitality staff members while Don went into the room. She heard the professor's voice call out to her uncle and then there was some dialog, but it was all hushed. The professor sounded weak compared to how he sounded just last Sunday! This alarmed Gabby terribly. However, hard as it was, she complied with Don's request for her to stay outside the room.
Finally, Don came out and told Gabby, " You may go in, now. But, I want you to keep yourself in check. Do not jump on him or hug him too tightly. He's had a rough go of it, Gabby!"
Don stayed outside the room while his niece went in. He sat down in a chair provided for him and went over the professor's health records with the day nurse.
Gabby walked slowly into the room and over to the bed where her 'father' lay. He had his eyes closed, but when he heard her approach, he opened them and smiled, addressing her weakly, " Gabriella, my dear!" and then reached for her.
She took his hands in hers and cried openly, " I've missed you so much, Father!" and pushed her face down into his hands. He took her into him and she gently laid her head on his chest, allowing her tears to flow freely.
He allowed her to rest her head on him, stroking it affectionately while she sobbed, " I've missed you as well, Daughter!" he said quietly. "How does it go with you in California?" he asked her.
Gabby collected herself and sat up. Refraining from telling him of her more recent predicament, she said she was adjusting well.
" Are you behaving yourself, Gabby? You know how determined you can be!" he admonished her.
" I am trying, Father. It is - challenging; their ways are so different from ours." she replied honestly without sharing why.
" Good! I am glad that you are not getting your own way all the time!" and the professor smiled at her.
She had to smile back at him for his insight. He must have known the move would be difficult for her in more ways than one. He had been friends with Don for many years; it was only expected that the professor was knowledgeable about who and what Don was.
" I am pleased that you are moving out to California," she said excitedly.
" Yes, I am, too, if only to be closer to you. The doctors felt a warmer climate would be better suited for me. Don has informed me that I will be staying in the guesthouse at Mike's. I am so indebted to Donatello, Gabby! You have no idea how much so. He is the most generous person I have ever known and I hope you appreciate all that he is doing for us! " her father said, his eyes filling with tears.
Gabby had to agree, considering the expense her uncle had gone to with her father's treatment and, now, moving him to California. However, she also wanted so much to tell him of her training that would be starting in just a few days and the heartache she was going through over losing Seth to Japan. She had always shared with him, but given his current health, she knew that it was wiser to limit such information until he was stronger. In that moment, she wished she could just move back to their old house with the professor, but she realized that her life there was over.
It saddened Gabriella to think that she would never see their home again. The trip was going to be a short one, so she dare not ask Don to drive her up to Connecticut to see the old house one last time. Feeling her face flush hot with emotion and her eyes start to tear up, Gabby pushed it all back and resumed her smile and happy expression. It would do the professor little good to see her cry over this. It was important to keep him upbeat and positive so that his coming move would be free from any unnecessary worries.
They talked for a good long time about many things. She shared some about her excursion into Carmel, avoiding telling him anything about the karaoke bar. He laughed about her falling into the surf when Seth got her all wet and was equally amused that she had successfully swept him down on his posterior! He was interested in the music store and the proprietor who showed such kindness towards her. The professor was quite interested in this person and asked Gabby what her name was. "Cassandra!" she replied. He looked thoughtfully at her and said, " If I am feeling up to it some day, I would like to meet this Cassandra while I am recuperating at Mike's!"
Finally, Don came in to tell them that their time was up. "Gabby, we need to let your father rest, now. We'll have tomorrow, and then on Sunday he'll be flying back with us! "
Gabby hated to leave, but she noticed how weary her father was. She kissed him gently on the forehead and then left with Don. The one thing that impressed her most about seeing her father again, he looked terribly frail and weak.
Gabby was quiet for the longest time in the car. Thomas drove them north along a less crowded street, avoiding many of the heavily traveled roadways. Before too long, they were on a turnpike. " Where are we going?" Gabriella asked.
Don replied, " North for a bit. There is still several hours of daylight and I thought a little side trip would be nice." He smiled but didn't say anything more to her.
They traveled north for a while. Thomas had stopped at a favorite deli and had a basket of food put together so that they would not have to stop. Don and Gabby ate from it and soon the sedan crossed the Connecticut state line. Don knew they would be. Gabby was the only one unaware.
" I'm getting a little stiff from sitting so long." Gabby said. " Are we going to stop at all?"
Don replied, " Not too much farther, Gabby. Be patient, okay?"
"I think I have been. I also have to go!" She was tired of being in the car and wanted to stretch her legs, as well as do other things.
" It's only been a couple of hours! And you wanted to drive clear across the country by car less than a week ago!" he laughed. " You can wait a few minutes longer I think!"
Gabby thought it was quite unfair to be stuck in the car for so long and without any stops. It wasn't like the limo had restroom facilities. What did Don expect from her anyway? She started to feel that edge of stubbornness creep back into her. Just when she was about to give her uncle a piece of her mind, the sedan took an exit off of the highway. Gabby's attention to her discomfort was momentarily distracted. She looked out the window and recognized some of the landmarks. She was near her home! A flood of mixed feelings enveloped her as she wrestled with the memories it conjured up.
Gabriella wasn't sure if she wanted to see her home again, now! She didn't trust her ability to keep from crying and she wasn't sure if she would be able to leave the house again. Why did Don bring her here? What was he thinking? Just a while ago she had lamented about wanting to see it one last time. Now that she was here.... She was starting to get angry, now; especially when she thought that maybe he was testing her! Again, Gabby felt as if she was being manipulated, which only intensified how she was feeling presently.
As Thomas slowed down and pulled up into the circular driveway, Gabby saw the brownstone house where she had spent the past fifteen years with the professor. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to gain control of the emotions that welled up within her. "Why didn't you tell me we would be coming here?" she asked hoarsely, her body shaking.
Don didn't reply but just smiled at her. He then exited the car and implored Gabby to follow suit.
At first she resisted, " I'm not so sure it's a good thing for me to get out, Don!" The war waging within her was escalating and she was afraid of the end results. " I never thought I would see it again and - now.... here I am!" she cried. Gabby was more afraid that she would turn back to her old ways and fight to stay there.
" You need to do this Gabby! Take my hand - please!" Don implored.
It was a test! "It's been less than a week and you expect me to just waltz in there, look around, visit this room or that, and then calmly get back in the car and return to California?" she stammered emotionally.
" Yes, I do! Now, give me your hand!" he replied sternly. "Besides, remember? You said you had to 'go'. Here's your stop!"
Gabby shook her head then reluctantly did as she was told. Don gently pulled her out of the car. He had the keys to the house and, with Gabby's arm securely interlaced with his, walked her up the steps and unlocked the front door. She trembled out of both fear and expectation. Home! How could she return now, so soon, and in one day or one hour - leave again?
He led her into the foyer. The smells were the same to her and the furniture was where it was the last time she stood there. A week before she was still living here, exasperated with the professor for 'conspiring' behind her back to send her away. She remembered well the argument that day. She felt betrayed. Although he had told her the week before she left, she thought that he was threatening her again for being so abstinent. The reality of it didn't set in until a few days later. He has been too persistent in getting Gabby to pack and it was out of character for him. When she finally accepted the truth that he had arranged for her departure, she had been livid!
The stairs to the second story faced her. Gabby hesitantly walked towards them and slowly ascended each step. Don let her and watched - waiting to see what she would do. Gabby disappeared into her old bedroom. Minutes passed. Finally, Don took to the stairs. He listened as he slowly ascended. Finally, standing at the threshold of her bedroom, he saw that Gabby was sitting on her bed. She had her head bowed into her lap as she cried softly. It was still home to her and would never be anything else. No matter where she lived, this would be where her heart longed for. The fine home that Mike had could not compare with how she felt about hers. Why had Don brought her here? What did he expect? She remembered too well her determined spirit less than a week ago and how she fought against being taken away. Gabby was afraid! She feared that, in the next few moments, she would willingly reenact that awful day they came for her.
Don sat down next to his niece and wrapped his left arm around her shoulders. " Why did you bring me here?" she sniffled.
" I think you have come a long way, Gabby. You've come far in such a short amount of time. You have an inner strength that you've denied yourself. This house, this home has been keeping you from tapping into it. You need to be greater than this. I'm not saying you have to forget it; you just need to move on. You will know when it's time to leave. I'm not going to force the issue. It'll be up to you." Don explained, his voice soft and warm.
Gabby's turmoil eased just a bit. He wasn't going to be looking at his watch and determine when they would be leaving? What if she didn't want to go? What about the professor? Would Don still take him back to California if she chose to stay at the house? Gabby was quite confused - and irritated that Don would do this.
After a while, she exclaimed, " It doesn't make sense, Don. You have my father prepared to go out to Mike's and now you bring me here and tell me that leaving again will be up to me? How can I stay here if he isn't? " she complained, sobbing and leaning into Don. He embraced her as she shook from her crying. She finally realized the truth of her feelings, "The professor has been my whole life! Home was always where we were, not what we lived in!" she cried.
Don smiled and kissed the top of her head, " Exactly, my dear."
There wasn't any way that Gabby could stay at her old home, not with the professor moving out to California. Not that Don would have let her if she had decided to. He had gambled that afternoon, taking a chance of repeating the previous week's drama. But he knew her love for her surrogate father was not based on the building they had lived in, but on their relationship. Home was not made of mortar, bricks, or wood, but of memories, relationships, and love. Gabby only wanted to return to the professor. Now that he would be living out in California and within the estate at Big Sur, Gabby could now focus her entire being on her training and not in trying to get back to Connecticut!
It was not hard for her to walk away from the house, not as hard as she had thought it would be. After finally visiting the restroom, Gabby visited each part of the house. She would sit for a while in each room to soak up whatever history was there for her. She even went up into the attic. Don made sure she kept the stairs down, though - he would not make the same mistake twice in underestimating her!
Gabby thought it completely hilarious, knowing Don the way she did now. Realizing that she was able to give him the slip first time out, her laughter echoed through the top portion of the house.
"Hey, you didn't have to destroy an armoire to get up there like I did!" he protested defensively.
" I just thought it amusing that I out-foxed you, is all!" she teased him from within the attic.
" You did NOT out-fox me, okay!" Don was getting offended at her suggestion. He was in her bedroom sitting on her bed. Clearly, he was annoyed at the memory of last Sunday.
" Okay, gee - getting a bit sensitive, are we?" Gabby pestered good- naturedly as she stepped down from the attic stairs. She pushed the steps up and they neatly returned to the ceiling. She saw some items in her closet that she had missed in packing, but decided to just leave them.
" YOU can be just as annoying as your father, you know that!" Don teased back. Gabby thought that even more amusing, thinking of Raph, and giggled, causing Don to laugh as well.
.
The gymnastic apparatuses were still outside, of course, and Don was quite surprised to see them. " You work these?" he asked Gabby. She only nodded.
He thought for a moment and then asked her, " Would you mind showing me?"
" I'm not necessarily dressed for it, but I guess I could do a little bit." Gabby replied. Fortunately, she had chosen to wear pull-on pants that morning and a leotard shirt. She took off the jacket she wore and her shoes. Walking over to the shorter of the two uneven bars, she faced it, took a deep breath, and then did a short run. She bounded and then leaped over the smaller bar, pushing against it with her hands to force her up to the taller one. She then grabbed the top rail with her hands evenly spaced apart. Her momentum pulled her under and over that one and then she reversed her direction. As she gained speed, she allowed herself to be thrown up into the air. Gabby then did twists and back flips as she maneuvered the bars. Don watched with fascination, surprised that she had learned something like this without the proper guidance. He knew the professor was not very athletic, so he couldn't have taught her.
Finally, she finished her routine with a triple swing around on the bars and a flying three-quarter half gainer, landing full on the flat of her feet - and nailed it!
" How did you manage to learn how to use them?" Don asked, smiling as she came back to retrieve her jacket.
As she was putting it back on, she replied casually, " The professor was able to procure some teaching aid DVD's from the athletic department at the college. I can basically learn anything by watching tapes or DVD's. I learned ballet and painting that way, too."
Don didn't know any of this and wondered why the professor hadn't told him. He thought that maybe Jordan was afraid if Don knew the extent of Gabby's proficiency at learning, he would have taken her away sooner. Don just shook his head in amazement.
" Maybe we can have something set up for you like this when we get back to Mike's! Would you like that?" he asked Gabby.
" Given my schedule in the gym, would I have time?" she mused. Gabby was not looking forward to her regime. The thought of being in that basement for ten hours a day and not seeing the sun once daylight savings time ended depressed her.
" I think we could arrange a time for you to use them!" he replied, still affected by what he just witnessed. Don thought to him, "And, maybe convince Mike to let you see his workout tapes in the process!"
As the sedan pulled away from the brownstone, Gabby elected not to turn back in her seat. She kept her eyes focused towards the front. Don noticed this and smiled. This was a good sign, an indicator that she had finally let go and was now ready to face her future.
