Full speed ahead captain! As quick as possible!

Nekura Ookami: There you are! If you were mad at the previous chapter, wait till you see this one.

ukitakeitalialover041757: Karai's back, although not as emotional

S/O to AyanoZonurai for the follow.

Enjoy!

Song for this chapter - lovely (with Khalid) ~ Billie Eilish

Meeting Karai

~Lilly's POV~

Three weeks later...

"Where are you right now?" Ian asked.

"I'm heading to Raph's place. I told you this." April texted me asking to come over to the lair. She said everything was alright and I wanted to see Raph anyways so yeah...

"Where? Where are you?"

"In the sewers. I'm not supposed to tell you where he lives."

Ian laughed, "¡No me jodas! If you're dating him, then I'm going to know where he lives. I won't visit, but I need to know you're safe-the sewers?" He said suddenly. "Wait, are you serious?"

"Yes," I chuckled.

"Okay," Ian sighed. "Ay Dios mío... Okay, at least that makes me feel better."

"Has my mom come back yet?"

"No... She's still upset at you. I'll try calling her tonight but she's pretty pissed. I don't blame her."

"I do. I get it you guys don't want me dating Raph but you guys should know the more you try to push me away from him, the more I want to be with him."

Ian groaned, "I don't want to have this conversation again. Just be here by 4 o'clock. If you're not here by then I'll go looking."

I sighed, "Fine. Bye."

"Bye, babe." He said before hanging up.

I've only seen my mom twice in the past three weeks. She's been staying over at Barry's this entire time. Barry, on the other hand, I've seen multiple times. He bought me this new phone! I told him not to but he and Ian talked about it and he wanted to make sure I had a way to contact both of them at all times.

I walked into the lair and found everyone laughing and and telling jokes. I saw April and Casey, Raph and Mikey. Donnie and Leo and...

I stopped, "Raph..." I said, catching his attention.

Raphael's head snapped over towards me. Before I could even move, he got up and ran over to where I was. "Hey babe," He said almost nervously. "Um, I didn't to tell you...we sorta-"

"What the hell is she doing here? Wasn't she the one you guys were trying to keep me away from?" I growled, noticing her getting up.

Raph's eyes widened at how loud I was talking. He rested his hands on my shoulders, "Okay, calm down..."

"Um no, it was because of her you guys talked to my family. Her and whatever gang she's involved with."

Karai laughed softly, "Its not really a gang-"

"Cállete. No me hables." I snapped, pointing at her. "Harmony, my ass."

SHe held her hands up in surrender, "Okay..."

Raph grabbed my hand, and shushed me. "It's a long story but, she's okay now. We convinced her and she knows and accepts the fact that Splinter is her father."

I cursed in Spanish, "I'm not about to be around someone who wanted to attack me and you guys."

April came up to me, "Lilly, she has changed. She's apologized and you just have to trust her."

"Have to?" Is everyone insane?! This girl could have potentially killed me according to what everybody told me. Now all of a sudden I have to be friends with her? Says who? I don't care who's daughter she is, my mother is not talking to me because I had to come out and say I'm dating a mutant because she may or may not have come after me!

April smiled, "You don't even have to look at her. Just be civil."

"Civil!?" With someone like that!?

Raph cupped my face and forced me to look at him, "Hey," he said softly. "I know exactly what you're feeling. Trust me, I know better than anyone here what you're feeling. But this is Sensei's daughter. Remember? I told you about her... Just try to...to be around her. That's the least you can do for Sensei."

After a while, I thought. Sure! Why not meet this girl who all of a sudden is good even though she wanted to hunt me down and hurt me a couple weeks ago? What's the worst that could happen? Raphael was with me, nothing will happen. "Okay..."

Raph grabbed me by the hand and pulled me over to the couch where I sat right across from her. I don't know if I should glare her down or pretend like she wasn't even there. I was here for everyone else, not her.

Karai smiled, "Lil' I-"

"Lillian." I snapped.

She nodded, "Lillian... I hope there's no hard feelings."

No response. If that's her form of apology, she fucking sucks at it. I'm not going to give her any response. Not even a glare.

Raph pointed at my phone, "When did you get that?"

I blinked out of my thoughts before handing him the cellphone. "Oh yeah... Barry thought it'd be a good idea if I had a cellphone just in case something happens. I have him, Ian, my mother, April... I just need you and everyone else."

Donnie stood up and took the phone out of Raph's hands, "I can help with that. This will just be a moment." He said before walking into the lab.

Raph sighed, "How's your mom? She still not home?"

"No... I haven't seen her in a while." I sighed, rubbing my hand against my head.

"Where's your mom?" Mikey asked.

I really didn't want to talk about it in front of...company. But it is her fault, technically. "Well, ever since she found out about Raph, she doesn't even want to be in the same room as me. She's staying with Barry. He always tells me he'll bring her back home but...she's the one who doesn't want to come home." I shrugged. "Ian is trying to get through her, but I don't know."

"So this Barry dude? She's serious with him now?" Casey asked.

I shrugged, "Looks like it. I mean he bought me a phone. He gets along with Ian pretty great. You should see the way this guy worships my mom. Why? I don't know. They've only been together for like...a month."

"Maybe it's love?" April said with a dreamy smile.

"Love? After a month..." Actually, maybe... "I guess. I just don't want my mom to hurt."

Raph grunted, "I'm surprised you're not mad that she's not home."

"I am. I'm annoyed and pissed. But I can't stop her." I wish things were simpler. I wish my mom would like Raph and everything would be fine but...nah.

"Where's your dad?" Karai asked.

I tensed before relaxing as quick as I could. I sighed, can't blame her for not knowing. "He's dead." I said simply.

Raph sort of jumped back at my tone. I just didn't want her to talk to me and I didn't want to talk to her so if I keep things simple maybe she'll stop trying. "Um... He died when she was just five years old. He had cancer."

Shut up, Raph.

"You know what's weird and morbid at the same time?" Casey said. "We all have one parent…"

I blinked, actually that was a weird coincidence. I never thought of that… "What the hell, Casey?" I snorted.

April shook her head and laughed, "Yeah, what's wrong with you?"

Casey chuckled, "Hey, I said it was morbid."

I spent the rest of the day in silence, almost complete silence. I didn't want to say anything that could potentially start a conversation with Karai. I know…petty is never mature, but I really do not like this chick. She's tried to attack literally all of the guys, including April. I'm supposedly next, but now everything has changed and she's good? Maybe it's because of all the shit I've seen and experience that leads me to think that people can't change and that's why I find it hard to believe that all of a sudden little miss sunshine is good.

I was quiet for a while, just listening to everyone's conversation until Raph touched my hand. "You okay?" He asked with a concerned look in his green eyes.

I smiled and nodded, "Yeah why?"

He shrugged, "You're quiet."

"I'm listening."

Raph frowned, grabbing my hand and motioning towards the kitchen. "Come on," He said softly, gently pulling me up. I followed him, "What's really wrong?"

I shook my head, "Nothing,"

Raising his brow up in a skeptical look, he pushed one more time, "Lillian,"

I groaned, "I don't trust her, Raphael. I don't trust her one bit. And I'm surprised and a little bit disappointed that you take to this so easily."

"Lilly,"

"No, do you honestly think people change? Because I don't. After all the men in my life, all the shit that's constantly being thrown at me I've come to the conclusion the people don't change."

"Lilly, you don't really-"

"Don't I?"

"No you don't understand." Before I could open my mouth he raised his hand and stopped me. "Don't say anything, I'm gonna tell you why you don't."

My eyes widened and I shut my mouth.

"This isn't like the people in your life. This is something different. She believes that she is Splinter's daughter now. I wouldn't have saved her freaking life if I didn't think she believed her. She is Splinter's daughter and if her being here causes Splinter even just a small moment of happiness, then me and all my bothers are going to do whatever we can to bring her here. She's his daughter." Raph's tone was suddenly very angry and defensive.

I crossed my arms over my chest, "So what? I'm supposed to forget all the shit she's put you and everyone else through? Just like that?"

Raph shook his head, "You don't understand..." he whispered. "Look, do what you want. But I'm telling you...begging you, let Sensei be happy. He's had enough to deal with. This is the least you could do for him." Raph snapped before walking out of the kitchen.

I narrowed my eyes, "What is that supposed to mean?" I said, but Raph was already. I honestly didn't expect him to pick sides, defend Karai, after he told me he'd never let her get to me like three weeks ago. What happened in those three weeks? Did I miss something? The least I could do for Splinter...? Is he trying to say that I've only ever caused him trouble? I don't know...this is making my head hurt.

"Everything okay?" I heard someone ask from behind me.

I turned and saw Karai, I rolled my eyes. "Why do you care?"

"I don't. I just saw Raph storm out of here so I'm just nosy." She walked over to the fridge and began to look through it.

I suddenly didn't want to be there anymore. I wanted to go home. I sighed, I actually want to go talk to Splinter the most. If I'm right, I think Raph is talking about all the tension I caused between the brothers. Maybe there's still tension that Splinter has to deal with. Fuck…

"So…" Karai began. "Are you and Raphael…together? No one really told me."

"Again, why do you care?"

She shrugged, "Again, nosy."

I glared at her, "Listen, I don't care that you're Splinters daughter, you've hurt my friends multiple times. They may forgive you but you don't get any special treatment from me. I don't care what Raphael thinks, I don't trust you. Period."

Karai chuckled, "You know, Lillian... You've got a lot of balls to be talking to someone who can take you out in a matter of seconds like that."

"You don't scare me, Karai. I don't care if you can beat me. I know I don't know how to fight and I don't care to know. You will not intimidate me. You can not intimidate me." I growled at her, getting uncomfortably close to her face.

We had a staring contest for a while. I think we were trying to see who'd look away first, who'd break the tension first. But no one wanted to be first because then they'd lose. I'm not scared of anyone. I refuse to be scared of anyone. Karai is no different. She's my age, I think, so what can she really do that'll scare me. Hit me?

Karai laughed, "Now I know why Raph likes you."

I shook my head in confusion, "What is-"

"I like you. You're tough."

"Only around people like you." You can't weak around people like her.

Karai nodded, "Smart choice." She cocked her head to the side. "I see what he sees in you but what do you see in the brainless brute?"

I scoffed, narrowing my eyes. "He was defending you a second ago, and trust me, you want him on your side. So don't insult him."

"Fair enough...but you can't tell me I'm wrong."

"I can. You are. He's not brainless. Annoying sometimes…but not brainless." Even when he's annoying, I will defend him. Especially against this girl.

"Yeah… So, do you like him?"

"Um…" I don't understand what her fascination with Raph and I is. It's actually making me very suspicious. Unless… "Why do you want to know so much?"

"Well, I've caught him once over at your place." My eyes widened, she knows where I live…Fuck. "I've followed him before…now, and he's left your house smiling. I'm not stupid, I know there are at least some feelings there."

I guess, if she's going to kill me because of Raph and I, then I'm going to be straight up honest with myself, I'll gladly die. "We've been together for…a while." Close to a year?

"Together?" Her eyes went wide for a moment before she nodded. "Alright, I knew there was something there. How do you do it?"

"What do you mean?"

"He's not human, how do you get past that?"

I shook my head and laughed, "You don't. You just get used to it."

She nodded, "Was it hard to do?"

"Actually…not really. Just one day, you stop caring." Could she be asking because of Leo? Am I going out on a limb to say that maybe she has a thing for him just like he has a thing for her? Am I? Am I...? They're not...related. Even though they call the same guy 'dad'- okay ew. Maybe not. "Why? Someone on your mind?"

"Someone?" She laughed. "Don't be silly. No one could handle me."

I rolled my eyes, "Sure... How long did it take you to realize that you were Splinter's daughter?" Before she could even answer, I continued. "So, I'm gonna tell you this once, and I'm not going to repeat myself, don't be blind a second time. Open your mind and eyes and look at the mutant boy who clearly has a thing for you. And if you think about hurting him ever, then you'll have to deal with me." I gave her shoulder a pat. "Nice chatting with you." I said with the fakest smile before frowning and walking out of the kitchen.

I walked slowly into the dojo, finding Splinter meditating in the middle of the room. I think he knew I was there because every time I took a step his ears would twitch. Eventually he opened an eye and smiled, "Lillian…" He said.

"Hi sensei…" I said nervously.

"Is something wrong?" He asked softly.

I sighed, going up to him and kneeling. "Master Splinter, I just wanted to say…I'm sorry."

He opened both of his eyes, shaking his head with confusion. "I don't-"

"I am. I know that Raph and I being together caused a lot of problems between the brothers, and I'm sorry for that. I really am."

He shook his head and laughed, "Oh child…no…" He reached over and touched my hand. "Do not be sorry for that."

"It's just Raph said to me a minute ago that letting you be happy because your daughter is back is the least that I could do and I just figure all I've been doing is causing you stress or something…" Do I bow? Is this where I bow? I'm gonna bow. "I apologize…"

Splinter sighed, "When he is angry, Raphael can say things just to say things. To hurt… I am happy you two are together. Although I am a little upset at you two hiding your relationship but I understand your reasoning. You two are an odd couple, no offense."

I smiled, "None taken."

"Tell me this…" He said, stroking his beard. "Was Raphael angry because of your distrust for my daughter?"

"I…Well…" Suddenly, everything that I said to Raph, and to Karai, I could not say to Splinter. I don't think it would be appropriate. "Out of respect for your feelings, I'm not going to answer that."

He nodded, "Very well, I will tell you this. Raphael felt the same way when Karai first found out who she truly was. He was 100% against bringing her here because of her upbringing. So you are not alone. And I, at first, was against putting their lives at risk to go help her. But everyone came around."

I sighed, "I guess it's just hard for me to trust people who have caused so much damage." Was that too much? My eyes widened, "Um, sorry..."

He shook his head, "Don't be. I understand." He stood up, holding out his hand to help me off the ground. "Are you...religious?"

I shrugged, "I mean, I believe in God and stuff but I don't go to church and stuff."

He nodded, "In Japan, there are two main religions. Shinto and Buddhism. I was raised with the ideas and teachings of Buddhism and although I may not follow all of its teachings, there are some aspects of the religion that I practice constantly. The act of compassion, forgiveness and patience."

I laughed, "Its easier said than done, Sensei."

He nodded, "Of course. But, when accomplished, it is as if a weight is lifted off of those shoulders that I know carry so much." He placed a loving hand on my shoulder and smiled.

"So… You want me to forgive Karai?"

"I want you to never carry any hate for anyone in your life. Hate is so powerful, it will consume you and eventually it will be all that you have. Not towards Karai, because I don't believe that you have any hate towards her. No.." He shook his head. "Not you… Just…listen to what I have told you. Compassion, forgiveness and patience. It will take time to achieve one let alone all three, but you can do it. I know you can."

At least I didn't cause any stress, "Thanks, Sensei."

"As for Raphael's sudden outburst, he's probably just frustrated. Do not pay any attention to him."

"I know exactly what to do."

Splinter nodded, "You would know, I suppose."

"Please let me know if I do ever cause any unnecessary-"

He shook my head, "Do not worry, I should thank you for taking some stress off my shoulders. You are the only one willing to go toe to toe with Raphael without actually fighting."

"Yeah well, I guess it's a special talent."

"I know it is."

"Alright guys, I'll see you guys later." I said with a chuckle when I saw Mikey heading towards me. I was already waiting for him with open arms. "Oh Mikey… I'm never going to get tired of your kindness."

"You're my sister, of course I'm going to be kind." He said, giving me a tight squeeze before letting go. "You need me to walk you home."

I shook my head, "No, I'm good. Thanks. Bye!" Raphael was sitting on the couch, his back facing me. I wasn't about to ask him to walk me home because his little outburst he had still played in my mind and I'm still a little ticked off. "See ya!" I said with a smile, waving at everyone who just stared at me with a confused look because I was alone.

Just as I was walking out of the lair, my phone began to ring. Right on time, Ian was calling me. "Oyé que paso? Adonde mierda andas?"

I sighed, "Ian, I was just on my way there."

"No, it is 4. When I said be here by 4 it means you leave at 3 or whatever time you think you should leave to be here by 4." Ian snapped.

I rubbed the bridge of my nose, groaning as my head began to pulse. "Ian, I'm not really in the mood."

"Ha! You're not in the mood." He began to curse and yell at me in Spanish, words that I didn't even know he was talking so fast I couldn't really understand me.

"Lillian." I heard from behind me. I turned and saw Raph running towards me. Oh yeah, now he wants to walk with me. "Wait up,"

"Why so you can be a dick some more?" I snapped.

"Excuse me?" Ian growled through the phone.

"No, not you Ian."

Raph sighed, "I don't want you walking alone."

"I don't care what you want." I said before speed walking away from him. "Ian, I'll be home in like 20 minutes."

"Fine." He muttered before sighed. "One more thing," he said before pausing. "You're mom came by today."

I stopped walking in my tracks.

Raph walked passed me, "Can't you calm down I wasn't-" I held my hand up to shut him up.

"She did? What did she say?"

"She has something she wants to tell everyone. I kept asking her what's wrong but she wouldn't tell me. She looked like she'd been crying for days."

"You think she broke up with Barry?" I asked.

"I don't think so... She said she was going to bring him."

"Did she mention me?"

"Well, here's what happened..." Ian started. I began to walk again, not really paying attention to Raph. "She came over and I soon as I saw her I started yelling at her for being so irresponsible. I mean, she's not fucking 16 years old anymore. She can't just leave you here. What if I wasn't here, would she have done the same thing?"

I nodded, "Probably..."

"It's not right. It's irresponsible and I'm pissed that Barry let her act like that. I'm not your father, she's your mother." He took a deep breath. "But anyways, she asked if you were okay, I said you were fine. Then she told me she was coming back next week, but there were somethings she had to take care of right now. I asked Christine what this whole thing was about and she knew just as much as I did. You should see how worried she is about how distant your mother looks. She's worried that Barry is taking advantage of her, like the previous asshole. I brought that up to Barry and he was mortified. But he wouldn't tell me about anything either."

"It's probably nothing." Might as well ask now that she was brought up, "You and Chris are certainly getting along well. Are you guys getting together?"

"Um..." Ian cleared his throat. "I don't think so...why? Has she said anything?"

"No but you guys still like each other right?"

Ian sighed, "That was in the past, Lillian."

"Past repeats itself, Ian."

"Weren't we talking about your mother not my love life?"

"So you do like her?" Ian didn't say anything. "You've has a lot of girlfriends in the past, none of them good. Especially your last one. But, I always wanted you and Christine to get together. Didn't you see her face when she saw you back? I've never seen her so happy..."

"Lilly, you're putting ideas in my head. Please don't do that."

"I'm sorry. Just ask her on a date."

"I'll think about it. But you know how Christine is about dating. I don't think she'd want to be with me."

"I don't know. You are the only person she confides in and she trusts you."

Ian sighed, "I'll...see."

I smiled, "I'll be home soon."

"You better." He said before saying bye and hanging up.

Great, now I had to deal with Raph who was just staring at me waiting for me to explain my phone conversation. Well, I wasn't about to. We're walking in silence. That's what he gets for saying things just to hurt me.

As soon as I began walking, I heard Raph suck his teeth in annoyance. "Don't be such a baby. I haven't done anything wrong."

I rolled my eyes, "'Let him be happy. It's a least you can do.'" I stopped and turned. "What is that supposed to mean?"

He shook his head, "Nothing... I was just-"

"Saying shit to hurt me? You made me think I'm doing something wrong. I went over and apologized and he told me that nothing was wrong. So you're full of shit. Thanks." I snapped before turning around.

He blinked, "You apologized?"

"Yes! If I'm doing something that makes him feel bad or stressed out I'm going to apologize for that." I shook my head. "If you were insinuating that this relationship is affecting your father in a way that is upsetting him, you're lying. Because I asked and he said he's fine."

Raph sighed, "Look I-"

"Save it. I get your point." I said before turning around and continuing to walk away from it. I didn't get his point. I still don't know what he's talking about or why he even said that. To be completely honest, I'm more confused than angry. Now that Ian mentioned my mom, that was really the only thing on my mind. What if she's kicking me out...? Nah, Ian would never let her.

"What did Ian say?" Raph said with trepidation.

I sighed, "My mother wants to talk."

"Oh…" He said.

We continued walking for a while, both silent, just the sounds of our stepped echoed throughout the sewers. After at least five minutes, I heard Raph sigh before he grabbed my hand gently. "Lilly,"

"I don't want you to apologize." I said softly. "It's okay. It's whatever."

He nodded, "Okay… It's just…Master Splinter has been so upset and sad lately…and you're like a daughter to him and I knew you'd never get along with Karai because trust me, it's really fucking hard…but having someone who means a lot to him and someone who is literally related to him argue or hate each other…I knew that would hurt him even more. He's been so happy, he thought Karai was dead! And now-"

"Raph!" I yelled to stop him. I placed my hand on his and sighed. "I get it."

"You do?"

I nodded, "Yeah, just…" I shrugged. "Tell me the truth next time don't just be mean." He opened his mouth to apologize but I stopped him. "Don't apologize."

"No, I have to. I was an ass."

"You were…" I chuckled.

"I love you."

It felt like a bucket of warm water was dumped on me. Every time he tells me that a relaxing feeling comes over me. Its weird… All my boyfriends have told me that and it was just different… Maybe because Raph actually means it or something. I smiled, I loved him too but for some reason, I didn't feel comfortable enough to say it back. "Come here," I ordered before pulling him in for a hug.

I just needed that from him right now. I mean, that's all I've wanted. My mother practically hates me and god knows what she wants to talk about. When Raph wrapped his arms around my waist, I knew I was fine. Whatever my mom was going to say didn't really matter. I have a place to go to.

Raph pulled away from the hug and we both continued walking. "I hope you know, you can't win every fight by telling me you love me."

Raph blinked, "I won?"

"No. I'm just saying don't get any funny ideas."

We walked hand in hand for a bit, my head resting on his shoulder. "What did your mom want to talk about?"

"You most likely..." I then laughed. "I think Ian and Christine have something going on."

"Your...aunt with your cousin?" Raph shook his head, "Yuck."

"Hey, they're from opposites side of the family. And Christine isn't even blood. They've been doing stuff since they were little. But now I think it's getting serious. It's different now because I think there's feelings involved. And let me tell you this, Ian sucks at girls. He's always been a smart guy but not with women. Chris is the one girl that never broke his heart... That is until she left California after she lost her baby."

"She had a baby? With Ian?" Raph asked in shock.

"No!" I scoffed. "Some other guy. He was barely around so I don't really remember his face. Chris would always complain about him being so boring though."

"Why was she with his if he was boring?"

"The child."

"Oh... Makes sense."

I nodded. "Ian hasn't had a date in a long time. Maybe Christine will give him a chance. She hasn't been on a date since her baby."

"Wow. That's... That's a long time."

"Yeah... Maybe they both need someone. And maybe its each other."

Raph walked me all the way home, his hand in mine. When we entered my room through the window I turned around and stopped him before he could enter. "So…" I smiled. "Now that Karai is okay and not trying to kill me anymore. Now, we don't have to be apart."

Raph shook his head, "No we don't." He smiled, leaning in to place a sweet kiss on my lips. He pulled away for a split second, "Isn't Ian home?"

"Yeah but…" I shrugged, my hands cupping his face and bringing him closer to mine. "Who cares?" I chuckled before kissing him.

Just then, my door slammed opened, "Mira esta!" Ian yelled. "Lillian Rosario Aguilar, tu…que crees?" He continued his angry rant in Spanish.

I groaned, heading over to my bed. Raph just stared with wide confused eyes, probably at how fast Ian was talking. I barely caught some words. Raph came over to me before stopping when Ian pointed at him and began yelling. "What is he saying?"

"Ian, shut up! He says we were screwing around and that's why I'm late. He's saying you're corrupting me. He also said something about…he's talking too fast." I groaned.

Ian finally took a breath in before sighing, "Listen you two… There are going to be rules around here. Rule one, the door is to be open when the two are you are in any room in this house. I may not be a saint, but I'm going to protect Lillian's innocence at all time."

My what?! "Ian, are you serious?"

Raph blinked before looking away and rubbing the back of his head, embarrassed. "Oh gee… I don't-"

"Rule number 2!" Ian interrupted. He began to pace in front of the both of us. "I don't want any kissing, touching, hugging, flirting. I want bodies above the covers, hands over clothes." He continued in Spanish.

I couldn't help but blush at his assumption, "Ian! Oh my god!"

"What what? What did he say?" Raph asked.

"He said no making babies."

Raph's eye widened, "Oh I…"

"Rule number 3, Raphael!" Raph suddenly straightened. "When I say, Lillian has to be home at a certain time, it means she has to be here at a certain time. If she's early, she's on time. If she's on time, then she's late. If she's late," Ian pointed at Raphael, anger burning in his stare. "I'll get you. ¿Me entiendes?"

Raph looked at me for that last part. I rolled my eyes, "Do you understand?"

Raph quickly nodded, "Yes, sir." 'Sir' how cute.

"Okay then, now that we got that out of the way, this whole thing with your family is done right?"

Raph nodded, "Everything is okay. Lilly is safe."

"Okay then," Ian took a long look at both of us before sighing. "Come with me then." Raph stared at him then at me, just as confused as I was. When Raph took a step towards Ian, I stood up, heading after him. Ian held up his hand. "I said him. You are ground for staying out later than I said too. So stay here and starting tomorrow, you are cleaning the house."

"What!" I yelled.

"Sit down." Ian said before wrapping his arm around Raph's shoulders and walking out of the room.

I crossed my arms over my chest, and with a pout I went over to my bed and sat down. Ian sure was strict and scary when he's mad. I know he was worried at the fact that I was late and I could have been in danger but damn…

~Raph's POV~

Ian brought me over to the sofa in the living room, giving a friendly tap on the shoulder before beginning to pace in front of me. That tap sent chills down my spine. I was on edge. Not because I felt threatened, but because he was being friendly. No one In Lillian's family has ever been nice to me. I mean, he just finished yelling at me in Spanish about taking away Lillian's innocence and making babies…

Ian stopped and couched down. I don't get intimidated easily, but the look that this guy was giving me I could feel him wanting to kill me. "Raphie boy… Can I call you Raphie?" I opened my mouth to tell him 'no' but he interrupted me. "I raised that girl. She's been through too much and she's a tough one. But if she likes you, then that means there's something...special."

Of course that's his logic, it my logic too. I mean ever since I've been with Lillian, I know it sounds cocky, but there has to be something good in me for Lillian to like me.

Ian sighed, "Do you love her?"

"Yes, sir."

Ian scowled at me, "Look at me." He ordered. "Do you love her?"

I frowned, "Yes. I do." I repeated.

"Will you protect her? With your life if need be?"

"No hesitation."

"You swear on your life th-"

"I give you my word. Nothing will happen to her, no one will touch her while I'm alive."

He raised his brow, "While you're with her?"

"While I'm alive." I said sternly. Break up or together I'll love Lillian and she'll always be protected while I'm alive period.

Ian seemed satisfied with my answer when he nodded. He covered his mouth and looked at me with intense thoughtful eyes. I just waited for his next question. He let his head drop after a while and let out a heavy sigh. Standing up from his crouching position, he sat next to me. "Let me tell you something I never told Lillian, and I don't think I'll ever tell her because...well, just because."

I waited, "Okay..."

Ian looked like he was contemplating, but eventually he shook his head. "On Tony's death bed...Lillian's father, he told me a few things about Lillian. Her inheritance, and stuff like that. But he grabbed my hand and told me, 'Promise me you'll take care of that girl. As if she were your own daughter, you take care of that girl. Don't let anyone hurt her. Because when I die, I know her mother won't.'"

I felt a little shocked that Lillian's dad knew just how useless her mother was going be. I know that sounds mean, but it's the truth. And he was right.

Ian sighed, "I promised him. But, I went into the service in order to help Lillian out of this situation. I wanted to better myself for her. Because she may call me her brother, but I see her as..." he shook his head.

"A daughter?" I asked.

"She's my world. So if you hurt her, I have a glock somewhere hidden in this house. You wouldn't believe how great of a shot I am. Got it?" He threatened.

I nodded, "I won't hurt her."

"I want you to push her to do the right things. Stay in school, study... If you see her doing something that is stupid you call her out on it. No drugs, no alcohol..."

"I don't want anything but the best for her, Ian."

"Okay... I believe you. I'm am going to trust you with her heart."

I nodded, feeling a little bit relief. At least I got someone on my side. I met Barry for a brief moment and he seemed...almost too okay with me.

"One more thing..." Ian said. "I'm not excited that your family is in this whole...whatever it is. I think we can both agree that we don't want Lillian involved."

"Yeah, I don't think anyone-"

"I don't want her involved in any way. If something happens, and she asks you how your day was, you say it was good. I don't want her to worry so much about you and whatever this thing is that she does something. I don't want you talking about it, I don't want her to even be in the room as you guys if the subject pops up. Get it?"

Well that is going to be hard to do. Lillian knows when I'm hiding something from her, not to mention, kicking her out of the room when they boys are talking about the dirty stuff seems a little sexist; a little 1940s Godfather mafia type stuff. Lilly isn't that type of girl, she'd never just get up and... She'd get pissed. "Ian... I get it but...she'd get pissed."

"Well, what's better, her pissed or her in danger?" Ian snapped. "I want her completely oblivious. If this means you have to stop talking about yourself completely then fine but keep her out of this. Got it?"

I don't know how this was going to end or if anything will come out of this but I... I want Lillian safe. I want to do everything to prevent anything from happening to her. So I guess... "Okay..."

I don't know if that's the right choice...or if Lillian would even find out. Maybe you should stay tuned... Next chapter has some mind-blowing news.