Friday.

The day of the homecoming dance. Less than five hours before the dance starts.

I told Alex about Leo's "plus one". They gave one helluva vocabulary. Overall, they stewed. They rented a movers' truck so we can transport a few materials to my place. I was telling Alex about Leo's situation as I drove the truck to my place while the drama queen pouted in the shotgun.

"I can't believe you threw a wrench in my schedule", Alex continued to pout. I stopped at a red light. "I may be fast in my art, but I'm not Flash or whoever has super speed. I am a transexual fashion designer, not a miracle worker."

I took a long breath as I repositioned my hands on the steering wheel. My eyes focused on the streetlight. "I know you're pissed, Alex, believe me, I would be too, but it's the only way Leo's father would lift his son's punishment temporarily. The old man had the nerve to say no even after I laid out the Boy-Next-Door charm. That shit would've made a homeroom with any strict fathers. But nooo, he managed to focus more on my reputation than on getting to know me! The fucking nerve, eso raton feo." The light turned green, and I drove.

"Color me shocked someone said no to you. Don't you tend to be... competitive?"

"I ain't that competitive. I just hate to lose."

"Right. My mistake." I can taste his sarcasm. "So, what? You want me to design and craft a disguise for Leo's... who did you say he was bringing?"

"His older brother. That was the agreement we settled on."

"Brother, you say? My goodness, Merrill, why didn't you say so?" even without looking, I can picture their mood brightening like an evening star. "Since meeting Leonardo, I drew multiple sketches for him. A redesign is child's play."

I stopped at another red light. "What if I were to tell you Leo's older brother is taller than him?" I managed to glance at my ex.

Alex tapped their chin in thought. "the height shouldn't be a problem. As long as I have enough materials, I can craft the ensemble."

"Let me rephrase. He's thick AF."

Alex's eyes widened. "Thick?"

"AF, puta. AF."

My ex threw me a devilish smirk. "Now I really can't wait."

The light changed to green. "I need to ask you a favor. Can you distract Red so Leo could have a good night? With Raph coming, his big brother instinct will kick in putting Leo on a short leash and won't let his little brother have fun."

"In short, you want me to charm him or rather tease him enough to get big brother into a flustered teenager?"

"Yeah, pretty much."

"Is Raph short for Raphael?"

"Yep."

"I can't wait."

Finally, the drive to my mansion was complete. I parked the truck and turned off the engine. "Which in turn, I need to drop down a few rules."

Alex groaned. "Ugh, are you serious?"

"Yes, because I would rather not have a reason to have Red tattle on me and not see Leo again. Rule #1: your teasing and flirting needs to be Rated PG-13. PG-14, if you can't censor yourself."

"How innocent is Raphael? The virginity innocence or your version of innocence?"

"Last week, Red assumed Leo and I did "the nasty". I air-quoted 'the nasty.

Alex smirked. "Aw, how adorable. I can taste his sweetness."

"Which brings me to Rule #2: no eating Red. In implication, don't spike the punch or get him anything alcohol-related. We don't want you making out with a mutant turtle in a dark corner."

"Are you still sour after I gave you a drink from the Spring Fling? How was I supposed to know you couldn't hold your liquor?"

"We almost went to second base! Your hand was unbuckling my belt!"

"In my defense, you were an adorable drunk."

"And Rule 3: no dry humping. You need to be pure. Pure mind, pure actions."

"You might as well tell me to go full Amish."

I pushed the door open. "I mean it. Follow those rules and you can do what you want. I want Raph to not be traumatized."

Alex opened their door. "I'll be as gentle as a kitten." I rolled my eyes as I exit the truck making sure I slammed the door behind me. "What? You don't believe me?"

I ignored them opening the back. It took half hour to get all their materials and drop them into my living room turning them into Alex's makeshift fashion workshop. During the transport, I managed to buy a gift for Leo online to be delivered before we leave for the school dance. Hopefully, it gets here on time. Alex was just wheeling in a clothes rack full of our outfits in black garment bags like those LOL OMG dolls without the designs. I spot the bag with my name. I reached for it, but it was slapped away by my senior. I'm surprised they didn't express pain after slapping my metal hand which was covered by my gloves.

"Ah, ah, ah. Not until everyone gets here", they told me.

I shrugged it off. "Whatever." I checked my phone and went to the site where I purchased the item. The order went through, and the shipping progressed. It was on its way. The doorbell rang. I went to open it. On the other side were Katie and Lydia.

"Hey, sluts", I greeted.

"Don't make me kick your nuts", the punk chick threatened.

"Kitty, no threatening our host", Lydia scolded. I let them enter. "It has been a while since I was inside your home Merrill. When was it last year?"

"Spring break, but it was a cover-up so Katie can come over and you two can have a make-out movie session in my living room. By the way, my servants thought we had sex on the couch, so they had to contaminate it."

Katie flipped me off. "Go fuck yourself."

I smirked. "You wanna watch."

"Ugh. You're disgusting. How does Leo put up with you?"

I decided not to answer and instead replied, "All that's left is Leo."

"Oh yeah! You never told us what happened", Lydia said.

"Let's head to the living room", I said. From there, I told them about Leo's predicament. It wasn't a long story if you take away the mystical pizza restaurant, the death maze, and almost slicing Leo's dad's throat off. So, I summarized. "Leo got grounded. I managed to convince his strict dad to ban his punishment for tonight unless he brings his brother."

"He has a brother?" the two sluts asked in unison. They blushed hearing their words overlap.

"Brothers with a plural, but he's bringing his older brother", I answered.

"Excuse me!" Alex was up in my face, "you never told me Leo has more than one brother!"

"Baby steps, Alex, baby steps", I said, pushing their face with my palm, "I don't want you to dry hump them. It's a no-brainer you're thinking of ways to soil Raph as we speak."

Alex swatted my hand. "I said I was going to behave!"

I rolled my eyes. Suddenly, a portal appeared before us. The three teenagers stepped back, except for me since I knew you were stepping through.

Leo came out. He waved. "Hey, guys", he smiled.

"Leeny Beany!" Alex pounced, but Leo dodged causing the trans to collide with the other mutant turtle. Alex looked up like he was gazing upon a skyscraper. Raph looked at the attacking human.

"Guys, meet my big brother, Raphael", Leo introduced, "Raph, these are my friends. Lydia is the brunette, Katie is her girlfriend, and that's Alex, the fashion designer."

Raph blinked before he rubbed his nape. "Uh, hi. Sorry to scare you guys. It's nice to meet you all."

It was silent until...

"Dayum! He's thick!" Katie said.

"Kitty!" Lydia yelled.

"What? I'm not the only one thinking it!"

"I'm in the same boat as Katie", I agreed to nod my head.

"Ew. I want to get off this boat."

"I want you off, too, puta."

"Guys..." Lydia sighed. but no one was more excited than Alex. His eyes were shining like crystals on expensive Prada heels.

"Hello, Big Daddy!" Alex went in front of Raph. "You are a sight for sore eyes! Rowr!" The snapping turtle pushed back. A look of distraught followed by a heavy blush on his face. Leave it to Alex to be the Master of the Honey Words. "Did you know red emphasizes more lust than romance?" Raphael was speechless. To put the snapping turtle on a leash, I need to be the sexual predator on a leash.

"Alex, what did I tell you?" I said to my trans ex.

"What? It's not like I groped him!"

"WHAT?!" Raph let out a yelp. "That's it! If this is the friends Goth Boy hangs out with, then we're going home! Come on, Leo!" Raph made to grab his brother, but I stepped into his line of sight. He was impressed by my speed, including my "friends".

"Listen, Raph", I told him, "Everyone expressed themselves differently. Not every teenager is as sweet and innocent as in a 90s sitcom. Look at Katie and Lydia, those two are as different as the sun and moon. Lydia is sweet, but she won't hesitate to claw any bitches' eyes out, and Katie is rough, but she's loyal and has a gentle side that's rare for anyone to see. Alex is bold and brash, yet they're generosity knows no bounds; they're always there to lend a hand, a shoulder to cry on, and a heart of gold. Talk shit about me all you want, but you don't know squat about them." I could've sworn my heart was beating. I couldn't stand by and let this dumbass run his mouth. I had the sudden nerve to punch him!

"Raph", Leo went between us, "I like these guys. They accept me for who I am despite what I look like. Give them a chance. You'll see them in a different light." My anger faded the moment Leo defended us... no, he defended them. I don't mind being seen as a bad guy. I'm used to it.

'Idiot.' I blinked. Did Leo...? 'You shouldn't degrade yourself. It's not like you.'

I chuckled. You're right. This was supposed to be fun. Let's have fun!

Leo clapped his hands. "We're here to get ready! Alex, where are these clothes you mentioned?"

Alex stepped off Raph and headed for the clothes rack. "Right here, darling! I must say I have truly outdone myself!" They grabbed each bag and called off our names. "KitKat." Katie grabbed hers with a scowl. "LydziePop." Lydia grabbed her garment with an excited leap. "Merry Bear."

I snatched the bag with a heated glare. "Call me that again and I'll snap your neck."

"Whatever you say, my Dark Prince." I rolled my eyes. I don't know how many times I did that. "And the best for last, Leeny Beany." Alex gave Leo his bag. Also, they pass out shoe boxes. "Alright, people. Chop, chop. As much as I love to be fashionably late, I enjoy making the first impression. Now scatter everyone while I grind this Adonis for information. I mean measure him!"

"Wha –" but Raph was pulled over to the library with fear written on his face while the rest of us were leaving the living room.

Lydia was wheeling the makeup case as Katie was holding her bag and both of their shoe boxes. Leo glanced my way before running off. I went to the half bathroom in the library. I ignored Alex measuring Raph. If anyone could pull off an outfit, it'll be Alex. I locked the door and unzipped the bag.

My outfit wasn't flashy which I have to thank Alex for later. I put on black jeans, a short-sleeved button-up, checkered slip-on shoes, a checkered necktie, and striped arm warmers. I wasn't used to showing off my arms. I was used to people staring at me. it shouldn't be a problem. I brushed off my uneasiness and styled my hair into a short ponytail. After I was finished, I left the bathroom. I noticed Raph was wrapped in different tones of red fabric draping over his body.

Alex was lifting each fabric close to Raph's face. Alex was discouraged as they neglect each fabric. "Merry Bear, what color suits Raphael more?" I looked at Raph who was trying hard not to sneeze or maybe he was constipated.

"I like red", Raph said, "does it matter what fabric to use? I'm wearing it for one night."

"I want you to make an impact, my dear turtle! Something that says "Yes, I'm big, but I'm sexy!" do you get what I'm implying." Raph opened his mouth but shut it instead giving the designer a quick head shake. "Merriweather, assistance please."

My eyebrow twitched. I hate them. "Go with crimson", I said with a scowl, "it's bold but not obvious. It doesn't stand out too much." I leave at that and head for the living room with m phone. I was checking on the shipping progress. My package was on its way. I mentally crossed my fingers as I went to watch a random video on YouTube.

It was one hour and a half when I heard Alex yell. "Presenting Raphael!" The snapping turtle stepped out of the library. He wore a dark red theme; crimson to be precise. A crimson tailored coat, a white buttoned undershirt with a black tie, trimmed dress pants, and black shoes. To top it off, a long-brimmed crimson hat adorned his head; his face was covered. "I know I have outdone myself."

I found myself clapping. "Nice job, Alex. You always push yourself to the limit."

"But of course, mon ami! Who do you think you're talking to? A sham?"

"I thought I was speaking with Alex," I smirked seeing them glare at me. "How do you feel, Big Guy? Clothes snug in the right places?"

Raph was looking at his reflection in the long mirror. "Snazzy. I barely recognize myself. Raph approves."

"He speaks in the third person. How adorable", Alex shrilled in silence.

"Keep it in your pants, puta", I whispered.

"Alright, guys. The belles of the ball are descending the stairs", Katie hollered, "try not to let your jaws fall off of the sheer beauty." We exit the living room to the terrace facing the stairs.

"The boys' jaws would fall due to my brilliance and creativity in my art", Alex proclaimed.

"Yes, yes, you're getting full credit. Is that what you want to hear?" Katie walked down the stairs. She wore a light brown shoulder-less pantsuit. A white pashmina draped over her shoulders. Her bare-toed heels clacked against the wooden stairs. Her pink hair curled. Her shaved head side shined brightly along with her multiple ear piercings. Light makeup adds to her face. She landed on the bottom and laid her hands on her hips.

"You don't look like shit", I commented.

"Don't push it", she spat.

"I guess it's my turn", Lydia announced. The brunette went second. She wore a rosy spaghetti strap dress with magenta flowers on the hem of the skirt. The dress was short enough to show off her bare legs and short light pink-heeled shoes. Her dark brown hair was styled into a swirled bun with a few brands of hair hanging over her ears. She wore lip gloss to bring out the shine on her plumped lips. "How do I look?"

"Like a slut in angel clothes", Alex answered, earning a pout from Lydia.

"Hey, she's my slut!" Katie defended.

"Aw, Kitty", her girlfriend gushed. She rushed down the stairs and jumped into Katie's arms.

"Aw, you two are cute", Raph gushed. He's on the lesbian express.

"Thank you, Raphael", Lydia gleefully thanked.

"We're down by one turtle", Alex observed, "oh Leeny Beany! Where are you?"

"I'm coming!" the leaned turtle yelled from atop the stairs. Nervousness and anxiety clawed in my chest. He's nervous. You got this, Lee. You can do this, I am mentally encouraged.

Finally, Leo stepped down. My breath caught in my throat. Leo wore a short sky-blue dress that reached above his knees, black stockings, tan ankle boots, and a black leather jacket, and his mask switched to a sky-blue one tied to a big bow with the long strands swishing behind his head. In close inspection, a small dose of blush layered on his cheeks. His eyes had light blue glitter eyeshadow. He went to the bottom level; we stared at each other before we looked away.

"Nope! Raph disapproves! The skirt's too short!" Raph rejected the idea. Leo glared, but Alex stepped in.

"That's why I added black leggings so in case a breeze kicks in passersby won't see his underdress. Are you saying your brother is ugly? Is that it?"

"Well... uh... um..." the doorbell rang, and I thanked God for letting me escape whatever the hell that was going to be. My face brightened seeing the delivery boy with a small case in hand.

"Package for Ramirez", he said. I nodded as he handed me a clipboard. I quickly signed my name and tipped him 20 bucks. With the case in my hand, my guest didn't matter. All my attention was focused on the turtle who shined in my home.

I walked up to Leo with the case. "I got this for you", I said, opening it to reveal a white lily corsage. Leo became as I gently took his wrist. I tied the corsage. "I thought this would tie the look together." I could feel my heart beating against the ribcage. Why was I nervous? I shouldn't be nervous, but here I am trying not to shake like a leaf in front of a mutant turtle. God, my pale face must have looked like a tomato. I lift my eyes seeing Leo observe the corsage. My heart soared as he smiled at the gift.

"Thank you", he whispered, clutching his wrist against his plastron.

"As cute as this is", it's yours truly turn to shine!" Alex marched to the library. Five minutes later, my ex walked out wearing a plum tuxedo with a tailcoat longer on the tails with peacock feather designs, plum pants, emerald heeled boots. Their makeup had purple eyeshadow with a peacock feather on the eyelashes and glossy lips. Their hair was styled to a loose braid. "I'm ready!"

"How did you..." Raph was baffled.

"Darling, don't think too hard and just go with the flow."

I tossed Leo his odachi. "Time to party!"

Leo grabbed his weapon with ease and sliced the air with his magic sword. A portal appeared. My schoolmates watched in wonder. Alex was brave enough to drag Raph through it. The two lesbians followed. That left with me and Leo. I offered the slider my arm.

"Ready?" I asked with a smile.

He smiled back and slid his arm through the opening. "Yeah." Together we walked through the leading to my school.

Not releasing that our homecoming dance isn't going to be as normal as I imagined.