Turning the key, the deadbolt unlocked as Cassidy walked into her dark apartment. Without turning on any lights, she trudged to her room where she tossed the duffle bag onto the bed; chucked her jacket on her desk and collapsed onto the soft mattress. Her blank stare following the cracks in the ceiling as her eyes adjusted to the dark room, the only source of light was from the moon just outside her window. Her phone started to chime and vibrate beside her, it was April. Cassidy read over the message which asked what time she was planning on coming over. Cass knew that April and Mikey had something planned for her return. She was away for two full weeks, seven days longer than she anticipated.

Two weeks, a total of three hundred and thirty six hours by herself. Surrounded by people she didn't know, met her late mother's step sister. The step-sister, Karla, didn't know any details how Cassidy was raised, honestly didn't know that Charlotte had a daughter until a week before she passed. The whole funeral, and paperwork, saving face was all too much. Back in Ohio it rained damn near every day, even snowing three days even though it was late March. Cassidy did not miss the inconsistent weather back in Ohio. Her phone chimed again, Mikey this time, sending her fun cat gifs and lettering her knowing that he couldn't wait to see her.

While away, Mikey and April texted her the most, Leonardo had called her three times to check up on her. She was feeling better about the growing relationship between her and the blue leader. Ever since the accidental slip up before she left, he had since apologized and wanted to start over. She agreed. But, in the end, she received only a few texts and two phone calls from the one who had a permanent residence in her mind. During her absence she sensed that he was trying to think of her, Leo had mentioned that Raph was attempting to give her space and time to heal. Sweet as his intentions were, all Cassidy wanted the past two weeks was to see his dumb, stupid face. A breathy laugh escaped her at that thought, he didn't have a stupid face, he was actually extremely handsome to her. His side smirk and that godforsaken toothpick that was glued to his lips. She craved to feel him, to feel his smooth, pebbled flesh, feel the calluses on his hands as he cupped her face, feel his plump lips press against her forehead. She burned for his touch, his attention.

Sigh.

Sitting up, Cassidy decided to send a reply to April letting her know that she was going to grab a shower before heading over. Thankfully, it was only a ten minute walk to April's and it was a relatively nice night out. Standing, Cass made her way to her dresser to pull out a fresh hoodie, black skinny jeans, matching black undergarments before heading towards the bathroom. Leaving her phone behind, she missed the text from Big Red letting her know that he would be there in five minutes.

Turning the water on, setting the temp just below scalding, she stepped under the hot water. Feeling the initial sting of the hot water relaxed her, allowing her the comfort to cry. She cried from the sense of relief, she was happy to be home, happy to start a new chapter. She did cry for her mom. When taking care of the woman's small array of belongings, Cassidy found a small journal that her mother kept. It was filled with apologies and letters she had written to Cassidy. It talked about everything, her mother had died knowing that there was nothing in the world that could excuse her despicable choices. Charlotte had made peace with knowing that with the help of Marilyn, Cassidy was a bright, intelligent woman who knew what she wanted out of life. Cassidy found out that Marilyn had visited Charlotte, briefly, throughout the remainder of her life before passing a few years back. Charlotte had written in the journal that Marilyn told her that she despised the woman that was willing to put her own flesh and blood through what she had put Cassidy through. But, that didn't stop Marilyn from wanting to throw away the fact that Cassidy was being taken care of, she was the best thing in Marilyn's life after her dear husband had passed. She would brag about Cassidy and all her accomplishments, never mentioning any details about Cassidy's whereabouts.

Cassidy was so thankful for Marilyn and her husband. Upon Cassidy's return, one of the items that was willed to her was a gift that Marilyn had given to Charlotte at her last visit before she met her husband in the afterlife. It was Marilyn's silver, teardrop necklace, a single red garnet in the center. Cassidy thought she'd never see the necklace again, once Marilyn had passed, Cassidy had looked for it, it was the one item that Cassidy wanted to honor Marilyn. Now, as Cassidy thought, she believed that Marilyn would approve of Raph, under the right circumstances of course. A smile spread across Cass's face at the thought of Raph meeting her late guardian. Shaking her head, a new wave of tears escaped for the new family that had adopted her as their own. The Hamato family meant a great deal to Cass, the protective, caring and tight-knit family that welcomed Cassidy, despite her literally thrusting herself into their lives.

Once all the soap was washed from her hair and Cass felt more alive and like herself, she exited the shower. Toweling off before slipping the black panties over her hips, her fingers grazed the scar that wrapped around her left thigh. It was a deep gash that took on a slight purple hue. Cassidy will never forget that day, it happened after she met with her newest counselor. Marilyn had picked her up and a drunk man ran a red light. Marilyn got the worst of it since it hit the drivers side, Cassidy doesn't remember much of that day. She only remembers waking in the hospital with a cast on her left leg, bandages and wrappings covering her from head to toe and screaming until she knew Mrs. Michels (Marilyn) was okay. Cassidy glanced at the clock, she needed to put a little pep in her step before April or Mikey started to wonder what she was up to. She was dry enough to pull the black, ripped jeans up her legs, shove the black laced bra over her head before chucking her favorite forest green hoodie on. She made her way back towards her bedroom.

As she walked down the hallway, she was oblivious to the hulking form that was huddled in the corner of her apartment.

Blinking, eyes adjusting to the dark living room, her heart was beating out of her chest. She froze.

"Fuck Red! You scared me, a little warning next time?" I choked out, a slight smile on her lips as she realized it was just Raphael and not the boogeyman. She flexed and relaxed the arm that was clutched to her chest as she made her way towards him. She was so relieved and happy that he was here. Something had changed between them before she left two weeks ago, she just wondered if he had felt it too. Her heart fluttered against her ribs, faster and faster as she stepped closer to him. Gosh, she really really missed him, her throat began to dry.

He chucked, "well darn sweetheart, forgot me already?" There it was, that side smirk, his toothpick dangling from his lips. Damn, to trade places with a toothpick. Cassidy internally groaned, she felt her thighs tighten where she stood.

"I'd never forget my favorite knucklehead." Smirking as she took four steps closer to him.

"Get ov'a here already," his resolve faltered, she'd never heard him so deep and guttural. He strode to wrap his large arms around her in his tight, turtle embrace. She immediately wrapped her arms around his neck, determined to never leave this spot. Moments like these were rare, and the last time they hugged, Cassidy felt a change. Spending two weeks apart ate at her mind, she did come to the conclusion of her feelings. Finally admitted to herself that this man was who she wanted. Her arms squeezed his neck as he lifted her slightly, his own arms going tighter. She was on her tippy-toes as she hurried her face against his neck. Raphael bore the brunt of his anger using his physical form to his advantage. He screamed action, he'd rather ask forgiveness than permission but; she realized that when it came to her, he was always kind and gentle. He was a physical being and with her two week separation she realized that he only showed any form of physical affection towards her when they were alone. Well, except the surprise mistletoe kiss he gave her, but after he had done that he stormed out of the lair and wasn't seen until much later. Cassidy was brought back to reality when his hold loosened to set her back on the floor, but his arms never left her waist.

This hug felt different though, he seemed to hold her closer, tighter, as if he was afraid she'd vanish. "I've missed ya." He whispered into her hair, pushing his snout against her crown. We've shared embraces before but not like this, this felt more intimate, giving her the needed confidence to make a move. Taking the risk, she lifted her head to brush her lips against his cheek. She whispered, "I've missed you to Big Guy." Adding a little more pressure was added to his cheek.

Ever so slowly, they pulled apart, their eyes locked as they felt the atmosphere change, heat rose, their breath coming in short, shallow breaths. Cassidy's eyes were the first to travel, her hazel gems traveled down, past his gorgeous amber eyes, his snout, trailed the scar that sat perched against his top lip, landing on the toothpick that shifted upon her eye contact. Teasing her, showing her just how pliable his lips were. She couldn't tell who started leaning in first; but, she was certain about what was about to transpire as her eyes slid closed. Feeling the familiar cinnamon, chlorine and the faint waft of gasoline scent fall over her face. She could feel his lips a breath away, so close, so —

Bzzt. Bzzzt. Bzzt.

"Uhn." Raph let out a frustrated moan, "it's Mikey," he said as he released Cass and took a step back, grabbing his T-phone from his belt.

"Hey — ya, she's here — ya I got a lighter — k. We'll be there in ten." He clicked the end button before looking at her again. She only prayed that the blush on her face was hidden in the dark apartment that was set aglow by the moon.

"Mikey is getting anxious, April said he called Leo and Don twice and wanted to check to make sure I was picking you up on time."

"Oh, I was under the impression that I would just meet everyone there,"

"Too bad princess, your knight in a shell is here to escort you." He bowed and made a gesture towards the window.

"Well, my sir knight, how will you escort me to the ball?" Loving how, despite what almost happened, we switched back to ourselves, skipping the awkwardness. Cassidy believed this was a step in the right direction. Could he be seeing her as something more than just a friend? Or was this all just some fluke because they haven't seen each other in so long? They only had 24-hours with each other after a month apart and then she left for two weeks. They haven't had any time by themselves together in awhile. Her mind replaying the way he had felt in her arms only moments before. The hunger for his touch set a flame in her belly, she wanted to curse Mikey calling.

The next moment was Raphael, he didn't say anything, just pushed back out the window onto the fire escape.

"I need to grab my shoes and phone, give me a second." Cass said, turning heel and heading back towards her room. Flipping on the light, in search of her phone as she found it among the covers of her bed. By herself, her heart was still beating so fast. She's never felt this way, but she was willing to take the risk and put herself out there. She was tired of tip-toeing around her feelings and his temper.

Turning off the light, she made her way back towards the living room, grabbing her keys, slipping on vans, she took his hand. She only hoped that he didn't pick up on her flushed face or her racing heartbeat.

- Ten minutes later -

Raph, using one arm to balance against the brick, the other helped Cassidy slide down until her feet hit the fire escape outside April's apartment. Cass adjusted her sweatshirt before she went to enter in through the window when she felt an arm wrap around her. A gasp escaped her as she was thrust back until she was connected to the behemoth behind her. Raph had wrapped her in another hug, feeling his hard plastron against her back, his other hulking arm wrapped loosely around her shoulders. He nuzzled his snout against her crown, she felt a brush of lips against her temple, her heart was racing and she hoped that he couldn't feel her heartbeat against her chest. He's never been this physically affectionate with her this much before. Questions started to arise as she felt him give a light squeeze before he stepped back.

"M'sorry," He breathed once we were no longer connected. Cassidy had a feeling that he was speaking to her without the use of words. She knew that it was his way of letting her know how much he had missed her and was glad that she was home. Who knew this large, green, tank, of a being was such a gentle man. Yes, Raph was always physical, whether it be beating his punching bag to a pulp, chasing Mikey through the lair or simply tinkering in the garage. Cassidy knew she could always count on him to show his emotions. That was one of the endearing qualities that drew Cassidy to him, even though she only realized this due to their recent separation.

She grabbed his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze, letting him know there was nothing to be sorry for. They will move past this, it'll take time, yes, but he was her best friend.

"There you are! Guys! Cass is HERE!" Mikey's voice rang out through the window as the curtains were thrown aside as he helped her through the window. She could almost hear Raph's eye roll, turning to throw him a smirk before turning back to the orange banded turtle.

Inside, it was evident that Mikey had taken over April's entire apartment, and by the looks of it, any and all possible decorations. Streamers from Halloween adorned the front of the kitchen island, new balloons seemed to be anchored in every corner, a happy birthday table cloth was strewn across the coffee table, confetti littered every available surface. The brothers and Casey all had a birthday cone hat on their heads, Mikey wore a rainbow, faux Mohawk cap with a small gold blow whistle in his mouth.

"Hey guys" Cassidy gave a small wave as the red headed reporter made her to Cass first. Her arms wrapped around Cass and whispered, "we're glad you're home," before motioning for the others to join. As everyone made their way over, Cassidy was overwhelmed by the love that enveloped her in a huge five person hug. She knew that in that moment, this is exactly where she needed to be. Surrounded by those that she loves and cares for the most.

Once apart, April and Mikey went back to the kitchen to finish laying out a plethora of food and beverages.

Cassidy saw Raph make his way over to Casey, who handed him a cold beer with a smirk on his face. Raph jostled his shoulder and took a big swig. She smiled at the interaction and even though Casey has known him longer, she was thankful that Raph had someone like him to confide in.

"Welcome home Cassidy." Leo said as he patted, coming to stand beside her, patting her shoulder in that older brother way. Even though this is new between Leo and herself, she was happy with the progress. She knew that she could trust the leader in blue to put their differences aside and move forward. He was, without a doubt, an older brother, his qualities of a leader and as a friend gave him the aura of a wise man even though he was barely 23.

"Thanks Leo, for everything, letting everyone come here tonight…" She trailed off, Leo shook his head.

"You're family. We do anything for our family." Cass's eyes widened at that, it was the first time that she had heard him admit that she was family. She nudged his shoulder, unsure of how to display her gratitude towards him. She gave him a small smile before making her way into the kitchen.

The party continued, mayhem ensued, she wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Everyone was done eating, Mikey and Casey were arguing over which group game to play first. As Cass threw away the remaining plates, she felt a touch against her elbow, turning to see Raph nod his head up, insinuating he wanted to meet up on the roof.

He slipped out first, stealthy as he was, she wasn't so lucky. After grabbing her jacket, she was half-way through the window when April stopped her.

"Raph?" April said, leaning against her bedroom door, arms crossed over her chest, a sly smile on her lips.

Cassidy could feel her neck burn. Why did she feel like a child that was just caught stealing cookies from the cookie jar?

"Yeah, we're headed to the roof for a breather. I just need a little bit of fresh air."

April's eyes softened, and a small smile adorned her features, she pushed from the doorframe and gave Cassidy a hug.

"I'm so glad you're back, you know you can come to me about anything right?" April said as she squeezed the poor girl tight.

Cass nodded against her shoulder, squeezing her a little tighter before saying, "I know, thank you Ape. I think I need a girls night soon."

Pulling away, "absolutely!" She said with a glint in her eye.

"Even though he may not say it, Raph missed you like crazy. Don't tell him I told you. He'll probably do the tough guy act, but there wasn't a day your name wasn't mentioned." She gave her a soft smile.

"Now, I'll distract the others as long as I can, don't wanna keep Red waiting." She winked before sauntering down the hallway, back towards the party. Cass laughed as she could hear shouts, sighs and laughter coming from the room. Turning, she made her way to the roof where Red was waiting for her.