Hope had almost forgotten that when the boys went out at night that they were actually putting themselves into dangerous situations. So when Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo arrived back at the lair one day with Leonardo being carried between them, she almost didn't realise what was happening.
"We think he's broken his arm!" Exclaimed Donatello. "I'll get the first aid kit. Hope, set up some pillows and blankets. Guys, lie him down!"
Between them, they patched up Leonardo as best they could. Unfortunately this meant he was going to be out of action for weeks. Hope looked after him, bringing him supplies and food, reading him stories from her comics and staying with him while he slept.
On the day of her training session, Hope arrived at the dojo ready to put into practice what she had learned. She knew she'd be alone the next few weeks while Leonardo's arm healed. She didn't want to ask the others to help her because Leonardo was the only one who took time and had patience with her.
Clasping up her dungarees and wrapping her hands in cloth, she started her training.
After a few minutes she realised she was being watched. Donatello was leaning against the doorframe with a look of admiration on his face. He blushed when she looked at him.
"You've improved." He smiled.
"Thanks." She smiled back.
"Uh- Do you mind if I join you? Give you some pointers?"
"Of course not!" She said a little too enthusiastically.
Donatello took hold of her arm and her skin prickled at his touch.
"Keep your arm bent, don't lock it out, and you'll get a harder punch."
"Thanks." She said and took his advice.
They trained for hours, laughing and having fun while doing so. She was so impressed by his style. She admired him completely. He was just perfect in every way.
"Here, I'll show you how to flip someone over your shoulder." He offered. He showed her the basics and then it was her turn to try it.
She put her hand on his shoulder, moving his centre of gravity, pushing him back, hooked her leg around his ankle and pushed. He landed hard on his shell, winked and gave her the thumbs up. Hope was delighted that her first go went so well. She held out her hand to help him up, but he faltered and tripped fabulously over his own foot. He came tumbling down on top of her, but caught himself before he crushed her under his turtle weight. He stopped inches from her face. She could feel his breath on her face and for one miraculous moment she thought he might kiss her. He looked at her mouth, then deeply into her wide eyes, then as if pulled from a trance he sprang back onto his knees, pulled her up and turned away.
"That's probably enough training for today." He stated and left without looking at her.