Living Well Is The Best Revenge

by Katarena

Taylor's decision not to move out (or at least, deciding to postpone moving out) seemed like the right one at the time. She never considered that the turtles and April would want to stay in each other's lives. The question is, does she want them to be part of her life? Sequel to "Raphael's Big Mistake".

6. Tense

Tense

How is everyone so calm?

They probably aren't, Taylor realises as Donatello scans her ribs again. It's just to make sure they're not damaged further, he says; she can see a fear in his eyes, one that he might not even know is showing.

Nearby, Splinter is talking to Michelangelo and Leonardo; the smaller turtle is staying close to the larger. Casey stands listening with his arms folded, but his eyes keep darting over to where Raphael is talking to April. The huge turtle seems to have trouble meeting April's eyes, but she's listening to him and when he's done she nods with a small smile.

"That's it."

Taylor quickly looks back at Donatello.

"They don't look any worse, but...just take it easy, OK? We'd take you home if we thought it was safe for you..."

Taylor nods. "I know."

Donatello nods at her. "See you afterwards, Taylor." He goes to join the small group around Splinter, leaving Taylor standing by herself.

"Hey. Can I talk to you?"

She tenses. She doesn't want to turn around, but she makes herself do so, not knowing whether to look at Raphael or at anything or anyone but him.

"I, uh, don't know if we're gonna make it back, but…I just want to say…I'm sorry. For all of it. For kidnapping you and for hurting you."

Taylor doesn't know what to say, so she says nothing.