Hello! To those who have sent me messages the last three years... I am so sorry for just now getting back to you! I used to get dinged when I get a message, but then my work blocked the fanfiction website for a while and, for some reason, I cannot see messages on the app. I just very recently was able to access the website again at work and see your messages. With that said, thank you very much for your suggestions on what I should write and even inviting me to write for another platform! Two of you have come up with amazing suggestions - one in the "Meet the Robinsons" world, one in the "Toy Story" universe, and another from a movie I have never seen before: "Monsters, Inc." I will definitely write two of these before giving you all another chapter in this story. The third one, well... I gotta watch the movie and the show first!
Now, this chapter. I will admit, it was a little hard to write. A lot happens to Lily this chapter. We have a big move. We have a birth. We even have a storm. But at the end, I think I may have written one of my favorite giving birth stories. I've written about Karena giving birth, and I was proud of that one (the original birth in "Hope"). Then it was April's turn at the very beginning of the story. I really enjoyed writing this in both her perspective and Donnie's perspective, how scared they both were. And now I've written two birth stories for Lily, and I enjoyed both of them. The one with Little Donnie went very much unplanned with her laboring in the car instead of in the comfort of her own home. This one is just as much unplanned but with a huge twist (ba-dum-chi!). This birth story was inspired by Dr. Mike from "Dr. Quinn" giving birth to Katie and by Elizabeth from "When Calls the Heart" giving birth to Little Jack.
But hey! I hope you'll enjoy this chapter, and yes! Please send me suggestions on what you would like to see! It could be from this story or it could be something out of this universe!
DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything related to "TMNT," "Meet the Robinsons," "Toy Story," and "Criminal Case." I only own Lilianna, James, Little Donnie, Mika, Ryan, Justine, Isamu, Venus, Athena, Skyler, Karena, Diana, and Wesley (WHEW! No more new characters, I swear!)
May 24, 2055 - Pacific Bay, California, USA
LILIANNA'S POV
"Is that everything?"
"Yes, Dad, it is," I heard my husband replying.
I stared out the window one more time towards Ivywood Hills. This was the window I did all my thinking at. This was the window I mourned at, not believing I would ever have a child. This was the window I had felt the most joy, finally holding my son in my arms and then caressing my unborn daughter. This was the window where our Christmas tree stood, James and I celebrating Christmas nine times. And now, this was the window I would create my final memories of Pacific Bay in.
"Lily, are you coming?" James asked.
"Give me ten minutes," I replied without looking at him. "Would you check and see if Little Donnie is ready?"
"Sure."
James went outside to the front while I walked towards the backyard with the view of the mountains of White Peaks, remembering all the times I ran towards those mountains when I needed time alone, when I needed to meditate, where Splinter taught me to be a sensei and a mother to Little Donnie and Mika.
I turned around and gazed at the kitchen, where James and I cooked all our meals and where Little Donnie had his baths when he was just a little baby. I gazed at the bathroom where I discovered I was pregnant with Mika. Then I walked into the dining room where we ate all our meals and celebrated all our birthdays. I glanced at the gaming room where the three of us played games together and where Little Donnie practiced with his jo staff.
I walked past the living room and went up the stairs. The attic was on our right and was now empty. The first room heading down the hallway was the spare room where Anna first spent her nights and would have eventually become Mika's room, had things not changed so suddenly. The second room was Little Donnie's room, which was his sanctuary for five wonderful years.
And lastly, our bedroom. There were so many memories in this room. James and I made love for the first time as husband and wife. We had always discussed our future tougher in the bed. We had a very memorable childbirth when we delivered Little Donnie naturally. And then came all the nights Little Donnie slept with us because he wanted to be with us.
"Lily Mae!"
I sharply turned at my father's voice.
"We're all waiting for you!"
"I'm coming!"
I did not look back as I slowly went down the stairs and out of the house. I got in the car with James and Little Donnie and broke into a grin.
"Goodbye, Pacific Bay. Hello, New York City!"
May 26, 2055 - Todayland, North Montana, USA
JUSTINE'S POV
I got home from work and was greeted by my husband and son.
"Hey, honey."
"Hey, kijo-i," Ryan replied with a kiss on my cheek. "How was work?"
"Once again, wonderful! You can never go wrong with feeling the wind on your face as you saddle up and guide your horse along the track!"
"When can I ride a horse, Mom?" Isamu asked.
"Someday, Isamu. Someday."
"But right now, the Robinsons have invited us over to dinner," Ryan chimed in.
"Oh, how nice!"
"Yeah, Franny invited us. Turns out, they are expecting some very special guests who are going to spend the night."
"Oh? I wonder who Cornelius invited this time?"
"Franny said it's a surprise. Isamu, are you ready to go?"
"Hai, chichi!"
Isamu showed off his new white sneakers with a proud smile. I laughed.
"You sure are ready!" I replied.
"Shall we go?" Ryan asked.
The three of us got into the flying car and drove to the Robinsons. When we arrived, we found the entire family waiting for us... that is except for Bud, Fritz, and Joe, who had passed away in the last few years, and except for Wilbur and his family, living their own lives in Connecticut.
"It's so good to see you guys!" Franny embraced us before looking at our son with a huge gasp. "Isamu, is that you? You're growing up! How old are you now?"
"Kyuu. Nine."
"Nine already?!"
"We can't believe it either," I replied, hugging Franny back.
"It's so good to see you, honey," Billie greeted me. "The ranch still doing good?"
"Yes, ma'am! The ranch is prosperous with people coming out to ride their horses."
The next lady I hugged was Lucille.
"How are you holding up, Lucy?" I asked.
Lucille smiled fondly at the nickname. Bud had called her that ever since they married and I had decided to call her that in his memory.
"I've been doing wonderful," Lucille answered with a fond smile. "I'm surrounded by family who love me. That's more than enough."
Suddenly, we heard a loud horn honking. I turned around to see a moving truck approaching the house. Up above us was a red flying car that parked in front of us. Words could not describe how I felt when the hood opened.
"James!" Ryan exclaimed happily.
My husband walked up to him and they shook hands with laughter.
"It's so good to see you, Ryan!" James replied.
"Hi, Uncle Ryan!" a little voice sounded. "Hi, Aunt Justine!"
I walked up to the car and found a small turtle, wearing a purple mask and grinning from ear to ear, waving at me.
"Oh, my goodness!" I exclaimed. "Little Donatello, is that you?"
"Yes, ma'am!" Little Donnie replied in the best country accent possible.
"He's got it!" Lily exclaimed.
"Oh, goodness, let me help you out!"
I held out my hand and pulled Lily out of the car. She was very pregnant, and I had absolutely no idea.
"You're expectin' again?" I asked.
"Yep!" Lily replied, rubbing her huge baby bump. "Thirty-seven weeks today."
Everyone around me gasped and wished her and James congratulations as Donatello and April got out of the moving van.
"Goodness, Lily!" Franny exclaimed. "If I had known you were pregnant, I would have made things more accommodating for you!"
"Hey, it's okay! I'll adapt. Adaptation is a part of life. Right, Donnie?"
"Right!"
"Lily, we insist," Cornelius chimed in. "Tallulah, come help me fix up Lily's bedroom so she'll be more comfortable."
Cornelius and Tallulah went back inside as everyone else surrounded our guests.
"Hey, Uncle D," Ryan greeted the older mutant turtle with a handshake. "It's so good to see you. Hey, Auntie A."
"Hey, Ryan!" April replied back with a hug. "We're here helping Lily and her family move back to New York."
"Back to New York?" I asked with surprise. "Well, that explains the moving van. But isn't Todayland out of the way?"
"Not really," Lily answered. "And besides, I haven't been to Todayland in years. I wanted to stop by for a visit."
"Well, it's too bad Wilbur, Karena, and the kids aren't here," Franny replied. "They would have loved to see you."
"We're actually heading their way," James said.
"In fact, Wilbur is going to be our neighbor," Lily chimed in. "He found a house for us which happened to be a couple houses down from his."
"Oh, how wonderful!" Franny exclaimed happily.
"Okay, everyone!" Carl announced on the intercom. "Dinner's ready!"
"We'll catch up inside," I told my cousin-in-law.
We all went inside, prayed, and then received our dinner: fried chicken tenders with mashed potatoes and green beans.
"Lucy, you have outdone yourself today!" I complimented her. "This is delicious!"
"Thank you! Billie was a big help."
Lily frowned.
"Billie, Lucille, all of you, I'm sorry for your loss. Wilbur has caught me up with everything."
"Thank you, Lily," Billie replied. "It hasn't been easy, but what matters is keeping their memory alive. Is that right, Cornelius?"
"That's right. Fritz experienced it firsthand with Petunia dying of cancer."
"But the time of grief is the time to be with family who have known your loved ones," Lily chimed in. "It sounds like you two are handling it well. And you as well, Laszlo, Tallulah."
"Justine's been a huge help with my grief," Tallulah replied. "It turns out riding a horse is great stress relief."
"Well, we've had some grief in the family as well. Athena miscarried her first baby and hasn't been pregnant since."
"Oh, bless her heart!" Franny replied. "I've been there. Cornelius and I had tried to have a baby from the moment we got married. It took us about six years to finally have Wilbur. We had tried for another and lost that baby."
"April and I have had our trials, too," Donatello chimed in. "With my being a big turtle, I never imagined we'd actually be successful. So it took me by pleasant surprise when I discovered April was pregnant with Lily."
"I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered my pregnancy with Yoshi," April said. "I didn't think it'd happen again. But... we lost Yoshi just after we gave him his name and we hadn't tried again since. We just kept being there for Lily and for each other. Lily was enough. And from what it looks like, all of you are enough for each other to get through these next few years."
"We've never given up on each other," Franny replied. "But even we know life here doesn't last forever. We will die someday."
"What matters is how you spend your life," Cornelius said. "Are you choosing to surround yourself with people who love you or do you choose to be alone? I know that without my family, I would not be here today."
"Can we please talk about something happy?" Isamu asked. "Like my new baby cousin coming soon?"
"Oh, yes!" Franny exclaimed happily. "Lily, is it a boy or a girl?"
"She's a girl," Lily answered and the women gasped in awe. "Little Donnie, why don't you tell Miss Franny the name you picked out for your sister?"
"Her name is Mika!" Little Donnie said excitedly.
"Mika?" Billie replied. "That is a beautiful name. I think you should keep it, Lily."
"I'll admit, I didn't take him seriously at first."
"But then Lily told me the name," James chimed in. "Once a child gives a name to someone, it just sticks."
"We just haven't decided whether Mika will be the first name or the middle name. But she will take her father's name."
"Mika Anderson, huh?" Cornelius asked. "It fits."
"Justine, how are your folks?" Lily asked. "It's been quite a while."
"They're kickin'," I answered. "Though they did enjoy Leonardo and Raphael's company for quite a while. In fact, Raphael really felt at home in a town in the west. He'd make a fantastic gunslinger someday."
"Well, Uncle Raph was a detective with the police department."
"He's retired now?" Cornelius asked.
"Yes," Donatello chimed in. "I'm the only Turtle still working. Leo and Mikey closed their businesses."
"Well, Donatello, thank you for continuing to do what you do best: encouraging the next generation to think for themselves and giving them your knowledge."
We cherished Lily's company the rest of the night, finishing dinner and coming up with an impromptu birthday celebration for her and Little Donnie.
May 29, 2055 - Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
LILIANNA'S POV
"Lily? Lily, wake up!"
I felt myself being shaken awake by my husband.
"What is it?" I asked, sleepily annoyed.
"The moving van is gone, and I can't get a hold of your parents!"
"Are you serious?"
I slowly got up and looked out the window. James was right. There was no sight of the moving van.
"Where could my parents have gone?" I asked, scratching my head. "Let me try calling them."
I called both my parents, but neither of them answered, to my surprise.
"That's weird. Both of them usually answer when I call them."
"Something's wrong, Lily," James replied with worry. "I can feel it."
"I'm going to try to get in my dad's mind."
I closed my eyes and concentrated. But I could not get in.
"My dad must be asleep."
"Let me try calling Wilbur," James suggested. "Maybe they drove overnight."
"Well, it would explain why my dad's asleep."
"Hey, Wilbur, it's James. Hey, are Donatello and April with you guys? Lily and I just woke up and we're not seeing the moving van they're driving. Really?"
James sighed.
"All right. I'm sure we'll meet up with them along the way."
He hung up.
"They're not at Wilbur's."
"Maybe they're in the lair," I suggested.
"With a moving van with the lack of your dad's technology?"
I sighed.
"Well, still, it's worth a try."
I called one of my uncles.
"Lily! What up, dudette? You moved in to your new place yet?"
"No, Uncle Mikey, not yet. We're in Pittsburgh. Speaking of which, are my parents with you guys?"
"No, I thought they were with you."
I was starting to get worried.
"All right. Thank you, Uncle Mikey. Would you call me if they show up, though?"
"Like a turtle do!"
We hung up the phone, and I hung my head.
"James, get packing. I'm gonna wake up Donnie and we have to leave now."
Westport, Connecticut, USA
KARENA'S POV
"Thank you for helping us out," April told us as we each carried a box inside Lily's new house.
"It's our pleasure!" Wilbur replied enthusiastically. "This was a wonderful thing to do, surprising Lily on her birthday with a home that's already good to go."
"And thank you for letting Donnie sleep on your couch. We travelled all night so we could get here ahead of time."
"I'm not surprised Donnie drove all night," I said, setting the box down. "I hope you slept well."
"I did! Even if it's just the chair."
"So, I take it Lily doesn't know you two traveled ahead?"
"We explained to them that we were checking in at the hotel across from theirs. We ate dinner there and then left for here. Though I think Lily and James are on to us. I received a call from Mikey before that last trip to the moving van. He says Lily called asking if we were at the lair."
"Knowing Lily, she'll figure out what's really going on," Wilbur chimed in with another box. "That's why she's our new profiler and why she's moving here."
"Lily is the bravest woman I know," I replied. "Moving across the country while thirty-seven weeks pregnant. I would not have done that."
"I hear you all visited my parents. How are they holding up?"
"They're all smiling and moving forward," April answered. "Justine, Ryan, and Isamu were there, too. It was really good to see them."
"Oh goodness!" Wilbur exclaimed, setting the box down and rubbing his forehead. "I haven't seen Ryan in years. Or at least it feels like years. How are they doing?"
"They're doing well and Isamu's growing up. He's nine now, if you can believe it."
"We can," I replied with a laugh. "Diana is ten now."
As if it was on cue, my black-haired daughter came in and set a box down.
"That's the last one!" she exclaimed, catching her breath.
"You are very strong, Diana," April complimented her.
"All because of your training, and because of my dad. You teach me how to use the tessen. My dad gives me strength training."
"Well, all that's left is the furniture," Wilbur announced. "Diana, would you wake Donnie up, please?"
"Sure."
"Well, do you have any ideas?" I asked as Diana left the house.
"Why don't we do the baby's room?" April suggested. "We're both mothers. Wilbur and Diana can do Little Donnie's room."
LILIANNA'S POV
"Oh, thank goodness!" I exclaimed as we pulled up to our new house. "The moving van's there!"
"Well, now we know your parents are safe," James replied. "Are you ready to see our new house, Donnie?"
"Yeah!" Little Donnie answered excitedly.
"I'm glad to see you have high spirits," I told him with a smile.
"Like you said, Mama, change is inevitable. And like Miss Franny said, we need to keep moving forward."
"When did you become the wise one?" James asked. "You're only-"
"Splinter's great-grandson," I interrupted him. "Donatello is wise beyond his years. Well, let's go."
"I'll help you."
James helped me and Little Donnie get out of the car. We took a peek in the moving van and it was empty.
"Wow!" James exclaimed quietly. "Donnie and April must have gotten here very early."
"Well, let's go inside," I suggested. "Maybe they're still here."
The three of us slowly walked inside with Little Donnie holding my hand. I let out a gasp. The living room and kitchen were already decorated.
"Hello?" James yelled. "Is anyone here?"
"SURPRISE!"
We jumped to quite the greeting. My parents, along with Wilbur, Karena, and their two children had suddenly appeared from behind the kitchen counter. James and Wilbur laughed and gave each other a brotherly hug.
"Welcome to Westport, my friend!" Wilbur said excitedly.
"It's so good to see you again, Wilbur."
"Well, we're not just friends anymore," Karena told us. "We're neighbors, living a couple houses down. Little Donnie, you remember my children, Diana and Wesley."
Wesley was only a year older than Little Donnie. The two boys slowly walked up to each other. Little Donnie was the first to hold his hand out.
"I'm Donatello, but everyone calls me Little Donnie. What's your name?"
"Wesley, but Mom calls me Wes. Do you wanna be friends?"
"Sure!"
"But, um... may I call you Donnie instead of Little Donnie? It sounds like a rapper's name."
"Wesley!" Karena snapped.
"No, it's okay," my son replied, waving Karena off. "My grandpa's name is Donatello, too. That's why I'm called Little Donnie. But you may call me Donnie, if you'd like."
Wesley smiled.
"There's a swing at my house. Do you want to play there?"
"Sure! May I, Mama?"
"Go ahead," I answered with a smile. "It's been a long ride from Pittsburgh."
The two boys went out of the house, running on the sidewalk with contagious laughter.
"April and I decorated most of the house," Karena explained.
"Donnie and I handled the furniture," Wilbur chimed in.
"Hey!" Diana exclaimed, putting her hands on her hips. "I helped, too!"
"Of course," I replied, holding my arm out. "And we thank you for your help."
Diana approached me for a hug.
"Your belly is huge!" she exclaimed. "Mommy's used to be that big."
"When are you due?" Wilbur asked.
"June sixteenth," I answered.
"And you still packed everything up and moved across the country?" Karena asked with surprise. "I'm impressed. I wouldn't have done that."
"Says the girl who moved to the future."
"Yeah, but I wasn't almost nine months pregnant."
"Moving on," Wilbur chimed in with gritted teeth. "Let's show you the rest of the house."
We followed Wilbur, Karena, and Diana up the stairs while my parents sat on the couch and relaxed.
"It's similar to our house," Karena explained. "But you get one more room and one more bathroom. So over here to your right is an office. You can pay your bills or do some extra work. Or, if you end up having a third child, you can convert it into a nursery."
"We're done!" James and I exclaimed at the same time.
"Well, that was unanimous," Wilbur replied.
"Our firstborn was a boy and this one's a girl," I explained, caressing my baby bump. "I'm content with that. And besides, my parents never got their second child. So I'm honoring them this way."
We went to the next room, which we immediately found out was Little Donnie's room, decorated just like it was in Pacific Bay, only with more space-themed decorations. Across from the room was the bathroom. Then we went into the nursery for my daughter, which was more beautiful than I could have imagined with light pink walls and butterflies all around the room. Across from that room were the stairs.
And lastly, we came into the master bedroom, painted with lavender-colored walls with our wedding and family photos.
"What do you think?" Karena asked.
"It's perfect," I answered with tears falling from my blue eyes.
I felt James and Karena hugging me.
"Why don't we all go downstairs and make some hamburgers?" Wilbur suggested.
"Yummy!" Diana exclaimed.
"That sounds wonderful," I answered.
We went down the stairs.
"Hey, Don!" Wilbur shouted. "How do you and April feel about hamburgers?"
"We'd love some!" Mom answered happily. "After all, it's Lily's birthday."
I cringed. I had forgotten today was my birthday.
"Wait, are you serious?" Wilbur asked.
"Wilbur, why don't we..."
My dad hesitated.
"What is it, Dad?" I asked.
"The Shredder is back in New York."
"You can't be serious?" Wilbur asked again but this time, he was angry. "How long?"
"Quite a while now. I'd offer to take you out to eat, but now we're risking the Shredder seeing us. That's why my brothers retired. Hamburgers will be fine."
"Meanwhile, I'm going to see if I can find a place that does cakes," Mom replied.
"Diana and I will come with you," Karena said. "Lily, you rest here."
I shrugged as everyone went outside. I collapsed on the couch, needing the rest but feeling helpless at the same time.
June 9, 2055 - North Hampton, New York, USA
The door opened, and I saw Venus on the other side.
"LILY?! Is that you?"
"Hey, Venus," I replied with a smile.
We laughed with delight and hugged each other.
"Look at you!" Venus exclaimed, holding her arms out, looking down at my ever-growing baby bump. "You look like you're ready to pop!"
"Next week!"
"Come on in!"
I followed Venus into my childhood home and it looked almost exactly like it was when I was young.
"Skyler!" Venus yelled. "We've got company!"
"What?!" Skyler yelled angrily. "You can't let anyone in here! We're supposed to be hiding!"
"It's Lily!" Venus snapped.
"Wait, seriously?"
Before I knew it, I saw Skyler coming down the stairs. When he saw me, he broke into a grin.
"Lily?"
"Hi, Skyler."
"Whoa!"
He ran over and hugged me as tightly as he could without hurting me or my baby. I laughed in merriment.
"What brings you by?" Skyler asked. "Not an emergency, I hope?"
"No. I wanted to spend the next few days with Venus and Athena. I just moved back to the city."
"Well, Athena is on her way home from work. But you can help me with dinner if you'd like."
"Well, I'll have to take it easy considering my condition."
"I'll watch you, Lily," Venus volunteered.
ATHENA'S POV
I finally got home after a long drive from work and opened the door.
"Skyler!" I yelled. "I'm home!"
"We're in the kitchen!"
I wandered into the kitchen, but words could not describe how I felt when I walked in. I blinked a few times, wondering if I was dreaming or not.
"Lily? Is that you?"
"Hello, Athena."
We both squealed in delight and hugged each other. Then I noticed her pregnancy.
"Boy or girl?" I asked.
"The baby's a she."
We squealed again.
"I feel like I missed so much!" I said excitedly.
"I think we missed each other more," Lily replied. "Has anything happened here since I moved?"
"Well, the Shredder hasn't found us," Venus answered.
"Praise the Lord for that!"
"Have you heard anything?" Athena asked as she started eating her dinner.
"Nothing bad except for you-know-who."
"Oh, right! I do need to talk to you about that. Venus, Skyler, can you give us some privacy?"
"Sure," they answered at the same time before leaving the room.
"What's up?" Lily asked.
"Amy and my mom have asked me to orient you while you're on maternity leave," I explained. "That way, by the time you go to work for the first time, you'll know everything you need to expect. And I promise, you'll get paid for orienting."
"Well, okay. But is now really a good time?"
"Well, while you're here, I figured we'd get started."
Lily smiled, putting a hand on my shoulder.
"Athena, I came here to spend time with you, not to work. And besides, I'm about to have a baby. I need to mentally prepare for that."
"Well, I might have an idea," I replied, suddenly feeling optimistic. "How about a picnic tomorrow evening before sunset?"
My red-haired cousin laughed.
"Don't you work? Tomorrow's Thursday."
"Well, the advantage of being a teacher is I can come early and leave early if I wish. I'll do just that tomorrow."
June 10, 2055
LILIANNA'S POV
Athena, Venus, and I left the house right when the former got home from work. Skyler helped me get ready for the picnic while Venus was out arranging bouquets and Athena did her job in New York City.
"Goodness!" Venus exclaimed. "The wind is picking up!"
"We can't do a picnic here," Athena replied. "The wind will blow everything away."
"Well, I know it's not ideal for a picnic, but there's a shelter I built in my vision quest," I chimed in.
"Then let's go!" Athena wholeheartedly agreed.
We took another trek through the woods which took us another half hour. By the time we made it to the shelter, the wind had become much more powerful.
"I've never felt the wind so strong here!" I said in alarm.
"Well, we are safe now," Venus replied. "Let's settle down and eat."
I had to sit on a chair due to my condition while Athena and Venus sat on the floor. We enjoyed a variety of sandwiches and a variety of chips. There were also a variety of drinks, one of which stood out.
"This looks like cream soda," Athena said of the orange beverage.
She took a sip and her eyes widened.
"Oh. Em. Gee!" Athena squealed. "Who made the Butterbeer?!"
"I did!" I answered with a grin. "I wanted to try something new."
"I may never go to Hogwarts, but this certainly transported me there! You've gotta make this again sometime."
"What is Butterbeer?" Venus asked.
"It's a fizzy beverage served to the wizarding world at Hogsmeade," I explained. "Of course, it's nonalcoholic, considering students drink it as well."
"What's in it?"
"Well, in this case, it's cream soda, butter extract, caramel extract, heavy whipping cream, butterscotch topping, and powdered sugar."
"May I try it?"
"Venus, you have to try it!" Athena said excitedly. "Also, you should know what it is. You've seen Harry Potter, too."
Venus tried the drink as we heard the wind's power.
"I'm starting to wonder if it was wise for us to come out here," Athena said.
"Oh my gosh, this is delicious!" Venus exclaimed in a hurry. "Give me some more!"
"Password?" I asked with a grin.
"Please."
I got the pitcher off the table, and suddenly, I had to put it back. My other hand reached for the bottom of my belly and I felt a sharp pain.
"Lily, are you alright?" Venus asked.
"Yes," I answered with a small grunt. "It's a contraction."
"That must be a strong Braxton Hicks contraction if it made you pause," Athena replied.
As my contraction finished, Venus got up to look outside as she poured herself a glass of Butterbeer.
"The wind picked up again. It's really blowing out there."
Athena and I got up and glanced out the window, and Venus was right.
"Well, it doesn't look like we're heading back to the house any time soon," Athena said with a sigh.
I suddenly felt water trickling down my leg. My eyes widened, knowing this only meant one thing.
"Uh, girls, we're not going anywhere for a long time," I announced nervously. "We've got another problem. My water just broke."
"Oh, no!" Venus exclaimed. "Lily, I know nothing about labor and delivery!"
"What do we do?" Athena asked in a panic. "The one time I was pregnant, it ended on a miscarriage."
I took a deep breath, in and out.
"The first thing we are going to do is stay calm," I told my cousins. "Labor is a very long process, so chances are, we're going to be here overnight."
"I'll let Skyler know," Athena replied, taking out her T-phone. "Uh-oh. I don't have signal. Venus, Lily, do you have signal?"
We took out our T-phones, and we, too, did not have signal. We shook our heads.
"Lily, you're the psychic," Venus spoke with determination. "Do you have any ideas?"
"I can try to alert my mom telepathically. She'll tell my dad, whom I'm sure will tell James."
New York City, New York, USA
APRIL'S POV
I was getting ready for bed when I felt someone entering my mind. I closed my eyes and listened.
"Mom, it's Lily. The girls and I are in a bind. My water just broke. We're stuck in the shelter I built when I went on my vision quest. But the wind makes walking outside impossible. And now it's raining. We have no signal on our phones to call anybody. Please, tell Dad and James to get up here as soon as they can. I love you."
I opened my eyes and let out a gasp.
"DONNIE!"
I quickly put on my pajamas. By the time I was done, I heard knocking.
"April! Are you okay?"
I opened the door, revealing my husband.
"Lily's in the middle of the woods having the baby!" I quickly spoke. "But she can't call for help. The weather's too strong!"
"Raph!" Donnie shouted. "Turn on the news!"
We ran to the living room where Raph had just turned the TV on.
"This is a breaking news weather report. We have very strong winds and baseball sized hail happening in Saratoga Springs. Saratoga Springs is under a severe thunderstorm warning and a tornado watch. Citizens are cautioned to stay indoors or to seek shelter."
"James, it's Dad," Donnie spoke on the phone. "Lily's in labor. Can you drive to the lair as soon as you can? Yeah, take your time. It sounds like the weather in North Hampton is not great. See you soon."
We all glanced at each other as the others walked in. After explaining the situation again, our eyes remained glued to the television until James arrived.
North Hampton, New York, USA
ATHENA'S POV
I continued glancing outside, Butterbeer in hand, while Venus helped Lily stay calm during the latter's labor.
"Lily, do you have a first aid kit somewhere in here?" Venus asked.
"Unfortunately, no. I only built the shelter to sleep in. I wasn't expecting to stay here for a long period of time."
Lightning struck, and it was blinding. The three of us screamed as the thunder roared.
"Lily, you did one heck of the job building this!" Venus yelled. "I'm amazed it isn't leaking."
"I've learned from history!"
Lily moaned. Another contraction struck. Then I heard a very dreading sound: a tornado siren.
"TROUBLE!" I yelled. "Lily, where's the safest place to shelter?"
"I don't know!" she panicked. "This was all I built!"
"We better pray that this will hold!" Venus yelled. "Get away from the window!"
Venus and I helped Lily up and we huddled together in the back of the shelter. Lily remained in the middle, awaiting her next contraction while we awaited the tornado to go around us.
Albany, New York, USA
DONATELLO'S POV
"THIS IS A STRONG STORM!" James yelled.
We left from New York a few hours ago, but we had encountered very strong winds along the way.
"This is the strongest storm I've ever seen!" I shot back. "It's no wonder Lily didn't have signal."
"I hope she's alright by herself!"
"She's not alone! Athena and Venus are with her! Everything is going to be alright!"
Suddenly, the van started swerving.
"DONNIE! We can't drive any further!"
"Yeah, good call! Let's check into a hotel for the night. We'll check on Lily in the morning when all this passes."
June 11, 2055 - North Hampton, New York, USA
VENUS'S POV
While the tornado calmed down, Lily's labor became more intense.
"Lily, how are you feeling?" I asked.
"BE QUIET!" she yelled.
She continued groaning through her contraction. When it was over, she breathed out to get her breath back.
"Athena, do you think it's safe enough to go out there?" I asked my younger cousin.
"No, it's still raining pretty hard out there."
"Okay. Lily, you've gone through this before. Is there anything you can think of that we need to get?"
"Unless one of you is brave enough to run in the rain and go back to the farmhouse to grab the first aid kit, no."
"I think I can," I answered. "I'm part-Salamandrian. I can use that to my advantage. Athena, please watch over Lily. I'll be back as soon as I can."
"Wait, Venus!"
I glanced back at Lily's voice.
"You may want to look around for scissors, too. You'll need to cut the umbilical cord once the baby's born."
Lily groaned again at the onset of another contraction. As Athena held her hand, I left the shelter.
It was raining cats and dogs outside and the wind was still very strong. It took me longer than normal to run back to the farmhouse. Despite all the downed trees, the farmhouse was still standing with the lights out.
I entered the farmhouse and went to the exact location of the first aid kit. I went through the kitchen, up the stairs and into the bathroom. I opened the cabinet underneath the sink and retrieved the first aid kit.
I went back downstairs and found a poncho for me to wear to protect the first aid kit. I went right back out in the rain. It took me another hour, but I made it back to the shelter in time to hear Lily screaming at the top of her lungs.
"Athena, is the baby ready yet?" I asked.
"I don't know!" she yelled. "I've never been in labor before!"
"Will you two SHUT UP?!" Lily screamed.
Athena and I shrugged, not enjoying a pained Lilianna Hamato in that moment. When we agreed that she needed our support, we sat back down and helped her through.
Albany, New York, USA
DONATELLO'S POV
I woke up to a slam. I glanced over and saw my son-in-law with his hand on the wall.
"James? What's the matter?"
"The winds aren't dying out and Lily's out there somewhere in pain!" James answered angrily. "What am I supposed to do?"
"James, we have to do the hardest thing possible: wait. And besides, I don't think it's going to do Lily any good if you're just standing there, pacing about, and slamming your hand on the wall. She'd want you to rest. Come on into bed."
James looked back at me in disbelief, but I smiled. It was enough for him to relax and get into bed with me.
"Trust me, James. Lily has been through this before and she knows what to expect. I expect she'll guide Athena and Venus through this."
North Hampton, New York, USA
LILIANNA'S POV
I was on quite the journey overnight. After yesterday started as a gorgeous spring day, Athena, Venus, and I traveled into the woods to enjoy a picnic together. But the wind picked up drastically and we were forced to shelter and have our picnic indoors. Just as sudden as the wind came, I ended up going into labor. I witnessed my first tornado, but thankfully, we weren't affected by it. Venus had told me the farmhouse was still standing when she ran back to get the first aid kit.
This labor was faster than my first time. I had ended up being in labor for thirteen hours when Little Donnie was born. This time, my labor started shortly after eight o'clock last night and it was now five-thirty in the morning. The sun had just emerged from the horizon after the winds finally died down an hour ago.
Suddenly, I felt extreme pressure in my pelvis and I loudly moaned.
"Lily, your legs are shaking!" Venus shouted over my moans.
"Oooh, Venus, I think it's time!" I yelled before letting out a scream.
"Hold my hand, Lily," Athena said gently.
I squeezed my cousin's hand, and I started to bear down and push. I was in a very unique situation where, once again, my labor did not go as planned. And this time, I did not have a change of clothes. I wore a short-sleeved pink maternity dress with a blend of purple and orange at the bottom of the dress, and it ended being what I wore in this delivery. Athena and I had not dared go outside to try to get water, but Venus managed to bring a bucket from the farmhouse so I would have some water.
"You're doing good, Lily," Venus told me. "Just tell me what to do."
"Lift up my skirt so you know what you're seeing!" I answered in between breaths. "This is one thing we cannot be blind to!"
I pushed again as Venus did what she was told. I felt the baby's head pushing against the exit and I moaned at the pressure.
"Something's coming!" Venus yelled. "Is it the baby?"
"Yes! Just keep watch!"
I pushed. I moaned even louder this time. I took another breath and pushed, this time, letting out a scream.
"OH, VENUS! THE HEAD'S CROWNING!"
"I take it you're in pain?" she asked.
Athena and I both gave her looks, and I was thankful for the distraction.
"No, Venus, Lily's only screaming because she's rejoicing that the tornado did not hit our house!" Athena yelled sarcastically.
"Knock it off!" I snapped at her before turning back to Venus.
"How are you so calm right now?" Athena asked.
"I have to be. I need to guide Venus through this because I know how scary childbirth can be. Now, Venus, I'm going to place my fingers next to her head. You're going to put your fingers there as well. You're gonna have to guide the baby out from this point. Make sure your fingers- AAAAHHHH!"
I screamed then grunted at the next contraction, making sure to take breaths instead of pushing. I kept my fingers next to the baby's head until I felt Venus's fingers instead.
"Okay, my fingers are there," Venus yelled. "Now what?"
"When I start pushing again," I answered with strain. "You're going to put your other hand underneath the baby's head. Then... as I push... you're going to gently... pull!"
I let out a gasp as the contraction ended. I glanced outside to see the sun fully above ground. I knew exactly what to name my daughter, for I knew she was going to be born any minute now.
Athena used her yellow dress to rub the sweat off my forehead. My legs continued to shake. Before I knew it, the next contraction began. I moaned, breathed, and pushed. This didn't hurt as much as it did when Little Donnie was born, but it still hurt.
"Okay, the baby's head is out," Venus announced. "Now what?"
"Gently turn... the baby's body... towards you!" I groaned. "Then... just let it come!"
I gave another hard push and I felt the baby turning. I knew from the feeling that I needed to give one last push. And I pushed. With all my might, I roared. And then, I felt relief as I sank back into Athena's body.
"Lily, she's here!" Venus shouted with joy.
"Holy cow, Lily!" Athena exclaimed. "You did it!"
Venus brought the baby up so we could see her, and I cried and laughed at the same time. My little girl was born looking like a normal human being, and she was so beautiful. Then, I realized what Athena said and squeezed her hand.
"No, Athena, we did it."
Venus brought my little girl over to me, and I gladly brought her into my arms. She was breathing peacefully and she had a small smile on her face. I used my dress to clean her the best I could with my tears falling on her.
"What time is it?" I asked.
"Five fifty-five," Athena answered. "I'd say she was born five minutes ago."
I kissed my girl's little head and continued to love on her with the best aunties she would ever know.
DONATELLO'S POV
By the time James and I woke up again a few hours later, we had seen the sun rising, which meant it was safe for us to continue driving. I had tried to call Lily and her cousins, but so far none of them were answering.
"I'm getting worried," I spoke up as I continued driving.
"That makes two of us," James replied. "That's my wife we're talking about."
"Well, let's give it a try later."
The drive to the farmhouse from Albany was a smooth one, but James and I got even more worried when we saw downed power lines and trees. We felt relieved when the farmhouse looked untouched.
We ran into the door.
"LILY!" James shouted.
"Venus?" I yelled. "Athena?"
"Who's there?" Skyler yelled from upstairs.
"It's Donnie and James!" I answered.
In a flash, Skyler appeared upstairs.
"Hey! Guys!" Skyler exclaimed with relief. "Have you seen the girls?"
"What do you mean, have we seen the girls?" James snapped. "We thought they're here with you!"
"They left for a picnic after Athena got home and I haven't seen them since!"
"Oh, boy," I mumbled, rubbing my head. "So they could be anywhere in the woods."
"We need to go find them!" James said in a panic.
"I agree," Skyler replied. "I'm getting worried. I'm gonna try to call Athena, see if she knows anything."
"Wait, Skyler," I chimed in. "Lily had telepathically called April last night. Lily went into labor last night during this chaos."
"What?!"
"That's why we're here " James replied. "Please, Skyler, we need your help finding her."
"Oh, no! Let's just go! Donnie, do you know these woods?"
"Yes, thank goodness. I've lived here for twenty-five years, remember?"
"Then, lead the way."
The three of us ran all around the woods, horrified at all the trees that had gone down since last night. Suddenly, I heard a voice behind me.
"Athena, thank goodness!" Skyler exclaimed. "Where are you at? I have Donnie and James here with me. They told me Lily's in labor!"
Skyler's face suddenly went from worried to excited.
"Oh! Oh, that's wonderful! But where are you? Donnie and James are really worried. Okay, I'll tell him."
He hung up.
"Lily had her baby at five-fifty this morning."
"Is she okay?" I asked.
"Yes, they're fine. Athena says there's a shelter that looks like a log cabin to the east."
"Thank heavens!" James exclaimed.
We ventured east. After some time, we found the cabin Athena described and we knocked.
"Who is it?" Venus asked.
"It's Skyler, Donnie, and James!" Skyler answered.
"Come in!" Athena yelled.
We opened the door and came upon quite the sight. The three women were sitting together against the back wall. Lily was holding her baby in her arms with little strands of her red hair loose over her face. She carried a proud smile on her face as she looked up and saw me.
"Dad!"
"Oh, Lily."
I ran over, knelt down, and hugged her. She hugged me back with her free arm.
"Are you okay?" I asked.
"Yes, I am fine. Athena and Venus were of great help."
"Uncle Donatello, I will forever respect you for all you do," Venus chimed in. "I never thought I'd assist in delivering a newborn baby. But Lily was incredible."
"Speaking of which, let me look at her."
Lily handed her daughter to me and I could not help but glance at her small face. She had her father's nose and his smile. She was clearly her father's girl. Then I noticed the umbilical cord was still intact.
"I'm impressed you kept the cord for so long."
"Because someone forgot the scissors," Lily sternly explained.
"Sorry," Venus said sheepishly.
"Well, we've got them now," I replied. "James?"
James and I worked together to clamp and cut the cord, and my granddaughter cried for the first time in her life. Then I used the suction to clear out her nose and mouth.
"Here you go, Lily."
I handed the baby back to her. Venus and Athena cleared the way for James to sit with his two girls.
"Well, we already know her name is going to be Mika," I started to ask. "But does she have another name?"
"Yes," Lily answered, glancing at James. "She was born at dawn. And she is representing a big change in our lives. Her name is..."
She glanced down at her daughter with a fond smile.
"Aurora Mika Anderson."
New York City, New York, USA
APRIL'S POV
I had just returned to the lair from work where I received the most adorable greeting possible.
"Grandma!"
Little Donnie ran over to me from the TV and I lifted him up in the air.
"Hey, kiddo!" I greeted him with a grin. "How are you?"
"I'm okay," he answered, his smile quickly fading away. "But I'm worried about Mama. Daddy dropped me off at Wesley's house and then Mister Wilbur dropped me off here at the lair."
"Hmm... your daddy must not be back yet. Go back to your show, okay? I'm going to see where he's at."
"Okay!"
Little Donnie ran back to the TV with Mikey and I called my husband.
"Donatello."
"Hey, D."
"April! What's up?"
"Hey, I just returned home and Little Donnie is in the lair. Is James with you?"
"Yes, and so are Lily and Aurora."
"Aurora?" I asked in confusion. "Who is that?"
"Our new granddaughter!"
I squealed excitedly.
"Lily had the baby! Oh, Donnie, I'm so happy I could cry!"
"I thought menopause prevented that from happening?"
"Oh, Donnie! I'm just excited about the new baby."
I turned and discovered I had gotten everyone's attention.
"Uh, Donnie, I need to go," I said sheepishly. "My squealing got everyone's attention."
"Alright. We've actually just entered New York City, so I'm gonna let you go. We'll be in the lair soon!"
"Is everything alright, April?" Mona Lisa asked with uncertainty.
"Lily had the baby!"
Everyone cheered excitedly, even Little Donnie.
"How is she?" Leo asked.
"I forgot to ask! But they're back in the city, so it should be any minute."
We all sat anxiously around the television for Lily's return. Even Little Donnie remained quiet, clearly glued to the show. Suddenly, we heard the sound of the Shellraiser entering the lair and we all turned towards it.
We ran towards the entrance. My husband was the first to get out of the vehicle, and then James and Lily followed with their new baby in their arms.
"Hey, everyone!" James announced happily. "We'd like you to meet Aurora Mika Anderson."
Me and the other women had our hands up to our faces with delight. The Turtles smiled fondly. Little Donnie grinned, excited to meet his new little sister.
"We call her Mika," Lily chimed in, winking at her son. "Would you like to see her, Donnie?"
Little Donnie glanced up at me with a shy look on his face.
"It's okay, D," I encouraged him. "Go say hi!"
Little Donnie slowly walked up to his family. Lily handed the baby to James, who knelt down at their son's eye level.
"Here she is," James whispered to him.
I could not help but take out my T-phone and took a picture of this moment.
"Mika?" Little Donnie asked shyly and then his voice turned sweet. "Hey, I'm your big brother, Donnie. I'm happy to see you."
Lily also took her phone out and took a picture.
"I take it by her first name she was born at dawn?" Raph asked.
"Yes, that's correct," Lily answered.
"It's also fitting that her name is Latin," Renet chimed in. "It suits her and your next chapter."
"Thank heavens I got sleep on the way home! Yesterday and today were the most busiest days of my life!"
"Yeah!" Mikey replied. "You saw a tornado! It can't get more exciting than that!"
We all laughed.
"Well, I didn't actually see the tornado, Uncle Mikey. That was Athena."
"Can you believe it was only Lily, Athena, and Venus in the cabin where Lily delivered the baby?" Donatello asked.
"What happened to you guys?" I asked.
"The weather had other plans for us," James answered. "We sheltered in Albany overnight. By the time we got to the cabin, Mika was already born with the cord still attached."
"Isn't that dangerous?" I asked.
"Actually, no," Donatello answered. "There are actually lots of benefits to keep the cord attached for a longer time. And it seems like little Mika took advantage of it."
"We need to let Wilbur and Karena know what happened," James told his wife.
"Let me know about what?"
Lily and James turned to see Wilbur standing next to the Shellraiser.
"Wilbur!"
"Thank heavens you two are okay!" Wilbur replied, shaking James's hand. "Karena was really worried about you guys with the storms up there."
"Well, the three of us made it back in one piece," Lily said with a smile. "Little Mika is already a brave warrior."
"Would you like me to take all of you home?" Wilbur offered.
"Uh, about that," Donatello intervened. "I need to keep Lily and Mika here overnight to be sure they're okay."
"And besides, I drove," James chimed in. "We've already got a ride."
"Well, okay," Wilbur replied. "But would you call me when you're on your way? I'm sure Karena will want to throw Mika a welcome party."
"That's a Robinson for you!" Lily said with laughter. "But Wilbur, please stay for a few minutes. We'd like you to meet Mika."
Wilbur smiled.
"I guess a few minutes can't hurt."
Lily and James spent the next few minutes showing Mika to her new family. Wilbur ended up staying and eating dinner with us, much to Russell's dismay when he called to pick him up.
June 12, 2055
LILIANNA'S POV
James had been a good sport all day. He took care of Mika while I had slept in the Shellraiser unless she needed to be fed. After we got to the lair, he did all the fatherly duties except for feedings while I rested in my dad's lab. We both had found taking care of Mika easier than taking care of Little Donnie. We both felt ready to take care of our second baby.
I woke up to my dad examining me. When he finished, he had a proud smile on his face.
"Well, Lily Mae, you don't have a tear this time. You've learned. As for Mika, she is in very good health. You have birthed two very healthy babies and your mother and I are very proud of you."
"It's all because of you both," I replied tiredly. "You've raised me well."
"Lily, you did what we couldn't do: successfully carry and birth a second child. You're a beacon of hope in the clan. I'm just proud to be your father, witnessing you become that beacon. And hey! You gave birth to a literal beacon in Aurora!"
I laughed.
"I have to be honest, I wasn't looking forward to this pregnancy."
"Really?" Dad asked with surprise. "How come?"
"I'd been very nauseous for most of it. I just wanted it to be over. But then the theft investigation happened and Mika just proved she was very strong. And she weathered through the storm to be here. I think, in the end, I am a proud mother for carrying her through the hardest trials."
"Hey, enjoy these next few months, okay? Before you know it, you'll be off and working at your new job."
"Oh, right! Athena was supposed to be orienting me while I stayed home. I need to talk to her about that."
My dad opened his mouth to start talking and then he sheepishly chuckled.
"I forgot Athena doesn't live in the lair anymore. Maybe give her a call and talk to her about it."
August 16, 2055 - Westport, Connecticut, USA
I stirred myself awake. I glanced over at the clock and my eyes widened. It was eleven o'clock! But then I let out a sigh and laughed.
"James must be taking care of the kids," I said out loud. "I'd better go check."
First, I walked in the baby's room to find the crib empty. Little Donnie's room was also quiet. After concluding they were downstairs, I went down and saw my husband in the kitchen. I glanced over at the living room and saw that it was empty.
"James?"
He glanced over and smiled at me.
"Hey, sleepyhead!" he teased me. "I figured I'd let you sleep. You've done a lot the past two months."
"A lot of resting, you mean," I replied with a smirk.
"Maybe so, but you were bonding with Mika and taking care of her. And since Athena's coming over today, I figured I'd take care of all the housework today."
I blushed.
"I love you, so much."
"I love you, too."
I walked over to him and kissed him.
"So where are Donnie and Mika?" I asked.
"They're outside. Mika's on her blanket on the grass and Little Donnie is reading to her."
I walked over to the back door and saw the scene James just described. Mika was on her tummy and Little Donnie had his legs crossed while reading a story with a smile on his face.
"He loves his sister, doesn't he?"
"He doesn't just love her, Lily. He named her. That's not something to take lightly."
"Little Donnie has adjusted really well to life here. He was so scared when we first told him we were moving. But he's handling this like a champ!"
"Especially since Mika was born."
"Speaking of which, I need to go see if I need to feed her."
I walked outside. Little Donnie glanced up and grinned.
"Hi, Mama!"
"Hello, Donatello," I replied, returning the grin. "Enjoying story time with your baby sister?"
"Uh-huh! She likes the story."
I glanced down and saw a small smile on Mika's face. I knelt down to her level.
"Hello, Mika. Are you hungry?"
I put a finger on her cheek and she turned towards it.
"Yes, you are. Let's go on the patio and give you some milk."
"What's Daddy doing?" Little Donnie asked.
"He's cooking lunch," I answered, preparing myself to feed the baby. "Why don't you go help him?"
"Sure!"
Little Donnie went inside and Mika latched onto me. I looked up ahead and I smiled. It was a gorgeous late morning in Connecticut. I enjoyed the simple view. The little playground for Little Donnie and Mika to enjoy themselves in. The oak trees behind the playground. The little garden James started for me.
Suddenly, the door opened, revealing my son.
"Mama? Aunt Athena's here."
"Oh!" I exclaimed, surprised that my cousin came early. "Tell her I'll be right there. I need to put Mika down for a nap."
"Okay!"
Mika finished eating and I burped her. Then I took her back upstairs and put her in her crib for now and kissed her. I went downstairs and greeted Athena in the living room.
"Sorry about that. I had to take care of Mika."
"You're good!" Athena replied. "How's she doing?"
"She's doing wonderful," I answered. "Thank you for asking. But I'll admit, I wasn't expecting you this early. But that's okay."
"Are you sure?"
"Athena, New York is an hour-long monorail ride from here. And Russell made the effort to get you here. So, we might as well get started."
"Well, where's a good place for us?"
"Why not right here?" I suggested, gesturing my arms around the living room. "It's peaceful unless Little Donnie runs in here."
"Donnie, let's give Mama her food and then we can play outside, okay?"
"Why?" he whined.
"Mama's busy."
"Mama's always busy," Little Donnie replied angrily.
"Come on, Donnie, we can play catch outside. Do you like that?"
"I'd rather train with my staff."
I noticed something was off with my son.
"Well, we can do that, too," James said uneasily. "But come on. Let's go."
Little Donnie brought my lunch to me, but he didn't look me in the eyes.
"Here, Mama."
"Hey, are you okay?" I asked.
"I'll be fine."
"Donnie-"
"I said, I'm fine!"
"Donatello Akihito, we do not yell in the house," I sternly told him. "Especially while your sister is napping. Now what is wrong?"
"I don't want to talk about it."
"Why don't you go to your room and calm down, then? I promise I'll be up to talk to you."
"No! I want to practice."
"Donnie, you heard your mother," James sternly chimed in. "Would you like me to count to three?"
"No. I'll go to my room."
Our son stomped up the stairs and into his room. Unfortunately, he slammed the door, waking Mika up. I sighed at her crying.
"Athena, I'm so sorry," I said solemnly. "It's not like Little Donnie to act like this. I'm going to go see what's wrong with him."
"I'll check up on Mika," James volunteered.
We both went up the stairs. James went into the nursery while I went into Little Donnie's room without knocking. He was sitting on the floor, both his arms and legs crossed, and he was angry. I was angry myself.
"Donatello Akihito Hamato, we do not yell in the house. We do not slam doors in the house. We do not hurt other people, especially little girls. Now, you were fine ten minutes ago and now you are angry. Are you angry with me? Daddy? Mika?"
There was silence.
"Donnie, I cannot help you if you do not talk to me."
"You read minds, Mom. Why don't you see what is wrong?"
Ouch.
"Because that is wrong. And that is not the answer. Talking things out in the open helps us calm down. It helps us be slow to anger. And it teaches us that we are not alone. Please, Donnie, tell me why you are angry with me."
Little Donnie then started crying.
"You're always with Aurora!"
I frowned.
"I don't see you anymore, Mom, because you're with Aurora all the time. And Daddy said he's staying home and you're going to work next month. What if I never see you again?"
"Oh, Donnie, I'm so sorry. I should have realized you need me, too."
I sighed, sitting on the floor across from him, crossing my legs.
"Mika's a little baby, Donnie. She can't do the things you can do yet, so she needs lots of help. You, my son, are a big boy. You can feed yourself. You can walk. You can talk to us. Mika can't do all these things yet. But she will someday. And I know you'll be there to help her. You have been a fantastic big brother so far, Donnie, and I'm so proud of you."
I smiled.
"And thank you for teaching me something today."
"Huh?"
Little Donnie glanced up at me, wiping away his tears.
"But you're my mom. You're my teacher."
I chuckled.
"Sometimes the teacher needs to be the learner. You are right, Donatello. I'll be away at work five days a week. But I'll tell you what. Mika has an earlier bedtime because she needs more sleep than you. What if, after she goes to sleep, we spend one hour with each other? We can play a game or we can read stories."
"What about my training?"
I let out a sigh.
"We can do that first thing in the morning, okay? So we'll get two hours of the day to ourselves without Daddy and without Mika. Okay? Does that sound good?"
He nodded.
"Now if I forget, tap me on the shoulder. But I promise, Donnie, to include you in my day, too. You're my son and I love you very much. Okay?"
He smiled.
"Okay, Mama. I love you too. May I hug you?"
"Of course, you can!"
I held my arms out as he crawled up to me and hugged me.
"Mama? I'm sorry I yelled at you. And I'm sorry for waking Mika up."
"Thank you, Donatello. I think Mika would like to hear your apology as well. Daddy should still be in there with her."
"Okay."
We got up. Little Donnie went into the nursery while I went back downstairs.
"I'm so sorry about that," I told my guest. "Little Donnie needed to feel included."
"Aww," Athena replied with a frown. "Is he okay?"
"Yes, he's alright now. He's saying sorry to Mika."
"I don't think any of us has experience with having a sibling."
"Athena, you forget our fathers are brothers."
"Yeah, but our parents were the same age. Splinter took care of four babies at once. I don't think any of them felt left out. May I suggest asking Wilbur and Karena for advice? Diana and Wesley are siblings. They've probably dealt with something similar to this."
I nodded, making a mental note to contact the Robinsons in the near future.
"So, what are you teaching me today, Athena?"
"Pretty much the rules of T.I.M.E. The first week is spent on learning the rules, where things are, and so on. Then the next three weeks is spent learning Latin."
"I know some Latin," I replied with a smile. "My dad taught me bits and pieces of it."
"Oh, awesome! But then again, knowing you, this will be a piece of cake. So first, you get a grace period of fifteen minutes because, well, despite the technological advances we've made, there's still traffic in New York City. Secondly, you always report to my mom's office for a fifteen-minute huddle. You'll learn about the day's events and whether the timelines are correct or not."
Athena spent the next hour teaching me the general idea of how T.I.M.E. operates, but I prayed I would handle being a profiler, a kunoichi, a wife, and a mother to two kids, all at once.