Okay, y'all deserve a second chapter in as many days. I'll finish a chapter only to not publish it for days. I won't do that this time.

I mentioned in the last chapter that Lily meeting Knuckles would change everything for her, and we are starting to see that in this chapter. I will admit that I did not put much focus into James and so it kind of looks like I created James to just be another person who is involved with Lily's life. In this chapter, Knuckles and Lily do grow in their friendship and she starts seeing her late husband in a different light.

If you are thinking, why Knuckles for Lily, it just clicked for me regarding both his history and hers. But you'll have to keep reading and waiting to see what becomes of them. I am heavily inspired not just by the Sonic the Hedgehog saga, but by Dr. Quinn as well. Enjoy the chapter!

DISCLAIMER: I do not own anything related to "Meet the Robinsons," "TMNT," "Choices: High School Story," nor "Sonic the Hedgehog." I only own Lilianna, Little Donnie, Mika, Vaia, Karena, and Diana.

February 22, 2061 - New York City, New York, USA

LILIANNA'S POV

I was doing pretty well today, despite it being the anniversary of my husband's death. I went to work, helped solve a mystery in 1930s Hollywood, and finished my reports. I imagined all day that James would be proud of me. I was also proud of one other thing: Knuckles was not on my mind at all.

My office phone rang, and I answered.

"This is Dr. Hamato speaking."

"Which one? Donatello or Lilianna?"

I chuckled at the deep voice.

"Very funny, Knuckles. But just wait until you meet my dad. Sometimes, we sound alike."

"Oh, I see. Listen, Lilianna, I have been meaning to ask you since the Day of Valentines."

The Day of Valentines. I tried so hard to stifle a laugh.

"Would you like to come to Green Hills for dinner? The hedgehog is paying for the pizza."

I smiled.

"Dinner with you and your brothers sounds absolutely wonderful. Would it be alright if my children come with me?"

There was an awkward silence.

"Knuckles? Are you okay?"

"Actually, it was supposed to be just you and me."

I gulped. Of all the days he asked me alone to dinner, it's the anniversary of my husband's death?

"Knuckles, I can't go," I said, my voice breaking. "I'm sorry. My children need to come first."

I hung up, and I started to cry, missing James's presence.

Westport, Connecticut, USA

I heard knocking on my bedroom door. I got up and opened the door, revealing my son.

"What is it, Donnie?" I asked.

"Knuckles is here. He's worried about you."

I hung my head.

"Tell him to come back another time."

"That's not an option," Little Donnie spoke, suddenly being stern with me. "He's challenged you to a trial by combat."

Now I felt angry. But if participating would help me tell Knuckles to leave me alone, then I really did not have a choice. I got up, transformed into Aumanil, and went down the stairs. To my surprise, there was a frown on Knuckles's face.

"Knuckles? What is wrong? Is everything alright?"

"Let us talk outside. Are you accepting my challenge?"

"Yes, I am. I probably need it, to be honest."

I led the Echidna through the house to the backyard where the beach laid before us.

"Whoa!" he exclaimed in awe. "You have quite the view with all these stars."

I decided to charge first and use his distraction to my advantage. I ran towards him and prepared to use a spinning side kick. Unfortunately, he saw me coming. He grabbed my ankle with both his hands, twirled me around, and threw me towards the ocean! Thinking quickly, I imagined myself flying and managed to float over the water.

"You dare to strike me from behind?" Knuckles yelled angrily.

"I'm a ninja, remember?" I shot back. "Distractions are key."

"Aren't ninjas supposed to fight with honor? That is not what you have done."

I charged at him again, but this time, we exchanged punches and kicks. I was filled with rage.

"You are angry, Lilianna," Knuckles spoke, suddenly sounding like Master Splinter. "You need to let go of things that are beyond your control. You cannot control what has happened in the past. But you can control your grief before it controls you."

I suddenly felt a hard punch to the face and I fell hard into the sand. I started to cry and not just because of the physical pain. I did not move from my spot as my tears fell into the sand.

"Lily--"

"Please don't touch me, Knuckles," I cried, sensing his hand close to me.

"You cannot give up, Lilianna," he sternly told me. "I understand your pain. There were times when I wanted to give up and die. But I did not do that, because that would dishonor my people. I found strength from within, and you can find it as well. You are very skilled. You are well trained. And you are as worthy as the stars in the sky. You can overcome these trials of grief. I know you can, because I have, and so has Donatello, your son."

I gasped and finally gazed up at him with glazed eyes. His talk with my son worked! I took some deep breaths to calm myself down. Knuckles sat down on the sand next to me and looked up at the stars. All I could do... was look at him in awe. I saw a new beauty to him, and I admired it.

"I'm so sorry, Knuckles," I spoke, my throat scratchy from grieving. "You are here trying to help me and here I am trying to push you away."

We both sighed before I continued.

"The truth is, I'm scared. James was my first and only love. As a mutant, it meant a lot to me. I see my parents, so happy together, and they defied all odds because they loved each other. Once we mutants find the one we love, we try so hard to never lose them."

"But then your husband was killed," Knuckles softly spoke. "And it changed your entire world."

"I swore off falling in love. I thought having a family with James was enough for me to be happy. But then you came into my life last month and called me Starlight. I've felt so confused since."

I laughed and scoffed at the same time.

"I saw my husband's spirit last week. He told me I deserve a second chance at love. You know what I told him? I told him I deserve to die."

I glanced over at my friend and saw a huge sadness on his face. He crawled up to me, just inches away from my face. His purple eyes gazed into my blue ones.

"You deserve... to have hope."

We simply smiled at each other.

"I did not make a joke when I called you Starlight," Knuckles explained. "I meant what I said. You are beautiful. I am sorry for pressuring you. I now realize you are not ready to move on. I promise to give you all the time and space you need."

We both frowned. He started to turn away, but I put a hand on his cheek. He turned back towards me.

"Knuckles, I think there is something between us. I've become aware that I have been daydreaming about you. And I am honored you have feelings for me. But it's too soon after James. I am open to us being friends, though. The beginning of a relationship always starts with friendship."

Knuckles smiled, and so did I.

"Friends it is, Hamato."

I laughed.

"Knuckles, please, it's--"

"Lily."

He held out his fist. I bumped it with mine.

"Now, may I request a trial by combat rematch?" I asked with my gap-toothed grin.

The Echidna stood up and held his hand out, returning the grin. I took it and he helped me up.

"I am always ready to battle with you."

We created our distance and got into our ready stances. We shared grins before charging each other with clear minds.

April 4, 2061

I felt better since the anniversary of my husband's death. I was thankful that Knuckles and I decided to be friends. Every time we met up, we would challenge each other to a trial by combat. Sometimes, our trials would be on Knuckles's home turf. Other times, we would have it at my place. And, on the rare occasion, we would have a trial by combat at my childhood home.

We ended up learning from each other as well. When Knuckles hosted our trials, he would give me one lesson about what he had learned from his tribe. Likewise, if our trial was in North Hampton, I would teach Knuckles how to become more like a ninja. He shared a story about using my teachings to scare both Sonic and Tails.

Knuckles also visited me and my children often, and he and Little Donnie grew closer. I was thrilled their talk about losing their fathers helped my son overcome his grief. I wished I could do the same. When Little Donnie and Mika took a week off from school for spring break, we spent the week in Green Hills, getting to know Sonic and Tails more.

School had resumed last week and I returned to work. Thankfully, nothing exciting happened in New York City. But the bad news was that I still could not find any of the gangs through my telepathic scans.

Now, I was sitting at the table eating dinner with my children. Little Donnie had insisted Knuckles join us, so he was here as well. I had made one of my signature dinners: meatloaf with mashed potatoes and broccoli. Knuckles, however, disliked broccoli, so I ended up substituting his favorite food: grapes.

"How was school today, Mika?" I asked my eldest daughter.

"Good. I learned to tie my shoes!"

"Yay!" Little Donnie and I cheered at the same time.

"Great job, Mika," Knuckles chimed in, giving her a thumbs up.

"Thanks!"

"Donnie, how was school?" I asked.

"Yeah, Donnie, why did you stay after school today?" Mika asked. "Wesley ended up walking home with me and I had to call Knuckles on the phone."

"So that's why Donnie insisted you stay for dinner!" I exclaimed.

"Yeah!" Little Donnie explained. "I was excited to see him. But to answer your question, Mika, today was auditions for the spring musical."

"You auditioned for a part?" I asked with surprise.

"What does it mean to audition?" Knuckles asked.

"It means to try out for a part in a play or a movie," I explained. "I guess Donnie's deciding to spread his wings."

"Yes, but not acting," Little Donnie replied. "I'm a terrible liar. I signed up to be a part of the crew. I'll be doing what I love doing: making things with technology!"

"So you are going to build things for this spring musical?" Knuckles asked with intrigue.

"Yes! Oh, and I didn't even mention the best part: we're going to perform the musical in London!"

"WHAT?!" Mika and I exclaimed at the same time.

I immediately felt worried. Knuckles noticed my expression and shrugged. I shrugged in return.

"That is so cool!" Mika said excitedly. "When's the trip?"

"In May," Donnie answered. "What a birthday gift!"

I gasped.

"I wanna go to London for my birthday!" Mika said.

"I want to go to London," Knuckles corrected her. "Lily, are you alright?"

I frowned.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I'm happy for you, Donatello. I just wish you told me sooner."

"Mom, Auntie Karena's going because she's the music teacher. And Diana auditioned. I'm positive she's going to get a part. And because of that, I'm positive that I will be just fine. Mom, you can come with us. We do need more chaperones."

"Who is paying for this trip?" I asked skeptically. "How much am I paying here?"

"Not a single cent!" Little Donnie answered excitedly. "The Crandalls are funding the entire thing! I'm sure your ticket would be included."

I glanced over at Knuckles, gazing into his purple eyes. He seemed to know exactly what was on my mind, because he gave me a firm nod. After dinner, he went with me to put Vaia to sleep and then we went back down to the living room. At this time, Little Donnie and Mika had retreated to their rooms for the night.

"I could tell you were worried about Donatello going to London," the observant Echidna started the conversation. "What is wrong?"

"It's all so sudden!" I answered as I paced around the room. "I'm not sure him going to London is a good idea."

"Why not?"

"He's not eleven years old yet! He's going to be the smallest kid there. And while mutants are free to roam this country, I am unsure if they are free to travel around the world."

Knuckles raised a brow.

"You travel around the world a lot and you are a mutant."

"That's different. I'm Aumanil. I'm part of the Justice League. I have that privilege to do that."

"Lily, why not go with your son?" Knuckles suggested. "Clearly, this means a lot to him. And I am sure he would love for you to go with him. How often are you two spending quality time together?"

I smiled. Knuckles would make an excellent husband and father someday.

"Not often enough with my job," I answered. "I guess it would be nice to go to London and not for work. And if anyone complains about Donnie being a mutant, I can vouch for him."

"See?" the Echidna replied with a grin. "Go to London. Relax. Spend some time with your son. Enjoy everything he can give you."

"But who's going to watch the girls?"

"I will watch the girls."

My mouth gapped open. My respect for Knuckles soared.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I am sure. I enjoy spending time with them. And perhaps I can invite the hedgehog and the fox over to play with them."

"Oh, they would love that!"

I clasped my hands with excitement. I could not help but hug the Echidna. With a surprised chuckle, he hugged me back.

"You're a doll, Knuckles! Thank you."

"Umm, you are welcome."

I kissed him on the cheek and he turned as red as his fur.

April 5, 2061

LITTLE DONNIE'S POV

I was debating what books and supplies I needed to take home when I heard a crowd buzzing downstairs. I closed my locker and went down towards the crowd. I saw many familiar faces and they were all excited.

"What's going on?" I asked a boy next to me.

"The cast list is up!" he answered excitedly. "I wonder what part I got!"

I inched closer with him and another boy whom I recognized as Clint. But he frowned.

"I didn't get a part."

"Maybe you can be part of the crew?" Clint suggested. "You build robots and stuff."

"Wait, seriously?" I asked excitedly and held out my hand. "Donatello Hamato the Second, at your service! But everyone calls me Donnie."

"I'm Graham," the boy introduced himself with a chuckle, shaking my three-fingered hand. "You do robotics, too?"

"Well, I haven't gone as far as robots yet, but I'd love to learn! I love to build things. I actually signed up just last week to be part of the crew so I could put my talents to use. Wanna come along? I can introduce you to our lead tech, Skye."

"Lead the way, Donnie!"

April 6, 2061

I felt so thankful that Wesley was willing to walk Mika home, and even more so that we still called each other best friends despite not seeing each other often. Today was our very first rehearsal and it was just a read-through of Shakespeare's The Tempest. After I met with Skye and Graham, two more students came backstage.

"Hi, guys!" a boy with brown curly hair under a beanie greeted us. "I'm Trevor. Skye and I are both the lead techs in the theatre department. This is Maria, and she is our stage manager. She will help us prepare every prop that we need. And then Graham and Donnie are going to deal with electronics and build us the best sets possible."

We heard clapping and the auditorium went quiet. While Trevor showed Maria around, Graham, Skye, and I went to the stage to watch.

"Welcome, everyone, to our first rehearsal of The Tempest," Ajay announced. "You were all cast because you showed talent and promise. Congratulations to you all on being chosen for our stormy voyage."

"We're going to London on a boat?" Adam teased.

"It's a play on words," Diana explained. "Because the show's about a shipwreck."

"Aw, a boat trip sounded fun," Graham whined.

I raised a brow at my new friend.

"Enough about boats!" Ajay shouted. "Let's read through the play."

As the cast read through the play, I dribbled down some notes as to what Graham and I would need to build. I was happy for many reasons. I was getting ready to do something I absolutely loved doing. And I was not alone. I made a new friend in Graham who shared my passion for technology. Also, Aiden played all the songs as we read through the play, which helped us imagine how the play would sound.

After we finished reading through the play, I glanced at my phone: it was five-thirty! I prayed I wouldn't be in trouble with my mom.

"I hope that helped you get familiar with the story," Ajay said. "And I look forward to working more with all of you. Nice work taking risks... big shout-out to Michael for jumping up onto a chair during that monologue."

"Who knew acting meant I'd be encouraged to break the rules?" Michael asked with a grin.

"Yeah, go ham," Skye replied. "Just don't break the set."

"Amy and Rory, you two seemed to really grasp your characters," Ajay continued. "Keep up the good work. I was also impressed by... you in white!"

We laughed.

"Ajay, you freaking forgot my name?" Erin asked with shock.

Ajay made hand gestures at Diana's boyfriend.

"Caleb. It's cool. I may have accidentally called you Allen earlier."

"Oh boy," I mumbled.

"I'm sorry," Ajay replied with a frown. "It'll take me a while to get names down. There's so many of you I don't know all that well yet."

"I admit I'm also having trouble with names," Aiden chimed in. "Please don't be offended if I refer to you as your character intsead."

"I feel like this means we should do something to bond," Amy suggested. "Like a party game or a cast sleepover."

"Oh, wait!" Diana exclaimed excitedly. "I know just the thing! What if we all went go-kart racing? I know a place nearby."

"Nothing like yelling each others' names in competitive fury in order to remember them," Skye agreed.

"I suppose I can allow a little fun for the sake of a tighter-knit cast," Ajay replied. "Let's do it."

"Great!" Rory exclaimed excitedly. "I can fit a bunch of people in my car! Amy, Donnie, are you in?"

"A cast go-cart adventure sounds perfect!" Amy replied.

"Let me call my mom," I said at the same time.

I took out my tPhone and made the call.

"Donatello, hello!"

"Hi, Mom. I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"No, not at all! I just got home. Thank goodness Knuckles and his friends were here to watch Mika and Wesley. What's up? Is practice about to be over?"

"Yes and no. We're preparing to go to this go-kart place so that we'd bond and remember each other's names. Can I go?"

"I don't see why not! Be sure you take care of yourself, okay?"

"Yes, ma'am! I love you!"

"I love you, too," Mom replied with laughter. "Tell me how it goes when you get home."

"I will."

I hung up and approached Rory and Amy.

"Let's roll!"

Stamford, Connecticut, USA

I rode with Rory, Amy, Skye, and Adam to the go-kart track in Stamford.

"Whoa!" Amy exclaimed when we got there. "It's like a real-life race track!"

"It's got little flags and everything!" Adam said in awe.

"With all my Berry Cart racing practice, I'm gonna crush you all," Rory taunted us with a smirk.

"Respectfully, not if I crush you first," Ajay replied calmly.

"Just watch, Rory," I shot back with a grin. "I've become more competitive since we met. Give me all you got!"

"Guys, remember, we're here to have fun," Emma reminded us.

"True," Amy replied, grinning. "But also, I'm here to crush all of you. It's not real bonding if it doesn't feel life-or-death!"

"Since the aim is to bond, try to find a driving partner you don't know very well yet," Ajay suggested.

"Oh no! It's like group projects where nobody picks me until the end."

"I know that feeling," I replied to Amy, hanging my head.

"Hey, Amy," Michael said as he approached us with a smirk. "Wanna be co-pilots?"

"Really? I might hold you back! You look like a fierce go-kart driver."

He chuckled.

"I think you can keep up."

"Hi, Donnie!"

I turned to see Natalie approach me with a kind smile.

"Wanna race with me?"

"Sure!" I answered.

Natalie and I got in our go-kart. Natalie took the wheel while I was in charge of the gas.

"Three, two, one... Aaand drivers, start your engines!"

Natalie and I followed closely behind Amy and Michael, who had just been passed by Rory and Diana.

"We're already in first place, slowpokes!" Diana teased us.

"Team RoDiana for the win!" Rory shouted.

"Okay, who the shell came up with that name?" I shot back.

"I'm with Donnie on that one!" Erin shouted behind me with Maria sitting next to her.

"Eat our dust, Diana!" Michael yelled teasingly. "Let's hit the pedal to the metal, Amy!"

I watched in amazement as Michael and Amy worked together to manuever around Rory and Diana to take the lead.

"So, what prompted you to become a tech?" Natalie asked me.

"I've loved building things ever since I can remember," I explained. "My mom says I get it from my grandpa. Ever since I skipped grades and got into high school, I've just been learning about myself. So when the word got around that those who participated in the musical would have the chance to go to London in May, I couldn't say no. I knew I had to be involved somehow."

"You can learn a thing or two from Graham," Natalie replied. "He's very smart and can build robots, just like you. You are definitely needed in the theatre department. And I think you're gonna fit right in."

"It means a lot to hear you say that," I said with a smile. "I hope this is where I'll belong all four years of high school."

Suddenly, Ajay and Aiden rushed passed us! They easily caught up to the leaders.

"Less talking, Adam, more steering!" Emma yelled next to us. "They're gaining on us!"

"Natalie, look!" I yelled, pointing to the finish line. "Michael and Amy are right behind Skye and Caleb!"

"STEP ON THE GAS!" Natalie yelled.

I slammed on the gas and she steered the go-kart around the track. We ended up finishing last, but it was okay. Natalie and I grinned at each other. We had a lot of fun.

"You're a cool guy, Donnie," she complimented me. "We should hang out sometime."

"I'd like that!"

We all met again at the front.

"I hope everyone feels sufficiently bonded now," Ajay said.

"Are you kidding?" Diana asked excitedly. "That was amazing! Rory and I are friends for life now."

"So are me and Maria," Erin chimed in. "This girl's got some fire in her!"

"Game recognizes game, Erin," Maria replied, bumping her fist with her companion's.

"Congrats on winning, Michael and Amy!" Adam said happily.

"You won't next time," Maria warned them. "Win, that is."

"Maybe you should put your money where your mouth is Maria," Michael teasingly shot back.

"Oh, you shouldn't make a bet with me, Michael Harrison. You'd lose."

"Wait, I want in!" Amy chimed in. "What are we betting? Cafeteria desserts?"

"I wonder if they have go-kart tracks in London," Rory pondered.

"I guess we'll find out," I replied with a grin.

We laughed and made our way to a pizzeria to eat dinner before heading home.

April 15, 2061 - Westport, Connecticut, USA

LILIANNA'S POV

"Be collected," Diana sung. "No more amazement: tell your piteous heart. There's no harm done."

"Oh, woe the day!" Amy sung with sadness.

"Amy, watch the tempo on that last line," Karena suggested. "You sounded a bit fast."

"Got it!"

"And Diana, be sure to really enunciate the 't' in amazement and piteous," Aiden suggested.

"Let's go back to the line 'I will resist' after Prospero threatens to have Ferdinand imprisoned," Ajay directed.

Shortly afterwards, practice was over. I smiled as I walked over to my friend with Vaia in a sling over my back.

"Hey, Karena."

"Lily! Hi!"

We hugged.

"What are you doing here?" Karena asked me.

"I figured I'd ask you something."

Little Donnie emerged from behind the curtain.

"Mom! What are you doing here?"

"One moment, please."

"What's up?" Karena asked.

"Is it too late to include me as a chaperone for the trip to London?"

"No, you made it just in time! I owe Mrs. Crandall the list of who's all going to London. Let me write you down! What made you change your mind?"

"A very good friend of mine has wisdom," I explained. "He helped me see that I don't spend enough time with Donnie nor that I take care of myself. So now, I decided to go to London for fun."

"He?" Karena teased me. "Okay, spill. Who's the guy?"

"Don't laugh, but his name is Knuckles."

"Oh that friend! Wilbur told me all about your encounters with him."

I blushed.

"Hopefully Wilbur told you all good things about them."

"Based on what my husband told me, I think you and Knuckles compliment each other well. I mean, you're teaching him how to be more flexible while he's teaching you to stand your ground."

"Are we talking about our trials by combat or about our lives?"

"Both. Come on, Lily. Ever since your husband died, you've been spiritually and mentally crippled."

"Not to mention pregnant with a child her father never saw," I shot back.

"I think you are slowly getting that spirit and fire back, thanks to Knuckles," Karena explained. "And then Knuckles has always relied on what has been taught to him by his lost tribe and by his own trials. But you've been helping him see that there are other ways to fight, and I'm not just talking about these trials by combat."

I heard giggling and found Diana next to Little Donnie.

"We need to discuss this more privately," I suggested, pointing to the two kids.

"Okay," Karena whispered. "But do you wanna know what I think?"

"What?"

"That you and Knuckles will become a thing and get married."

"Why does everyone I know assume I'm going to marry Knuckles?" I asked in annoyance. "Donnie even suggested I marry Knuckles after I talked to him about my going to London with him. I'm a mutant turtle-human-alien hybrid and he's an anthropomorphic echidna from somewhere in the universe!"

"Doesn't that make you both aliens, then?"

I paused, realizing she had a point.

"And another thing: if your child notices something special, then that means something," Karena explained. "But remember, Lily, this is not just about what is best for your children. You need to think about what's best for you as well. You are the only one who can control your life."

My children and I ate dinner together again, but this time, Knuckles was not present; he had decided to go home and spend time with Sonic and Tails. I thought it was better off that way. After thinking about what Karena said, I needed to have a discussion with my children.

"Donatello, Mika, we need to talk."

"Uh-oh," Little Donnie replied, biting his lip.

"Relax, you are not in trouble."

"Whew!" my children exclaimed with sighs of relief.

"So what is this about?" Mika asked.

I smiled, blushing a little.

"What do you two think about Knuckles?" I asked.

"He's a cool dude!" Little Donnie answered with a grin. "He has a lot of wisdom because of everything he has been through. And he's always wanting to get to know us more every time he's here."

"I agree with Donnie," Mika chimed in. "Knuckles is very sweet, especially when he holds Vaia in his arms."

Knuckles, sweet? I laughed inside at the thought.

"And he's always asking me and Wesley how school went and he tries to help us with our homework," Mika continued. "He's very smart when it comes to history and science."

"But he's absolutely clueless when it comes to math!" Little Donnie said with laughter. "He'll try to help me sometimes with geometry, but he keeps ranting about how math is some kind of alien language."

"Is something the matter with Knuckles?" Mika asked.

I let out a sigh.

"No, nothing is wrong with Knuckles. The reason why I asked you this is because I want to take your feelings into consideration. Donatello, I know losing Dad has been hard on you. And Mika, you were old enough to understand what was going on. But I want to assure you both that your father can never be replaced. He is your dad and I want you to remember him as much as you can."

I sighed again, feeling ready.

"If I asked Knuckles to have dinner with me, how would you two feel?"

"I think you should go for it," Little Donnie answered. "Knuckles really helped me overcome my grief over Dad. We've bonded. Now it's your turn to be happy."

"Mika?"

"I think you should have dinner with him, too," Mika answered. "I can tell he cares for you a lot. And besides, Dad's gone. There's nothing any of us can do about it. But we can look to the future and be happy we are alive to look forward to it."

My son and I both blinked.

"Aurora, that is very wise!" I said in awe. "Who taught you that?"

"Sonic. And Uncle Wilbur. And Knuckles."

"Okay. Well, now I want to ask you two another question. Say this dinner date goes well, and we continue to have many dates together to where we end up getting married. How would you feel?"

"Mom, we're your children," Little Donnie answered. "If you're happy, then so are we. You're right. No one can replace Dad. But if Knuckles becomes my new dad, then I'll be thrilled."

"Me too," Mika chimed in. "As long as Knuckles treats you with love and he loves us just like Daddy did, then I'll be happy."

"Come here."

I beckoned my two children to come over and we hugged each other.

"I love you guys so much."

"We love you too, Mom," they replied.

"But please give me grace," I requested them. "Relationships take time to develop. I want to take my time with Knuckles and see if this is worth pursuing. It already makes me happy that you two are happy with him. It means a lot to me."

"Not just us," Little Donnie replied. "Vaia's always smiling up at him when Knuckles holds her. When she cries, she always calms down to his voice and his touch."

"I wish I could see that more often. Okay, then that settles it. I'm going to ask Knuckles out on a date."

"Good luck!" my children said at the same time.

April 17, 2061 - Green Hills, Montana, USA

I sent Knuckles a text challenging him to a trial by combat on his training grounds, to which he agreed. I completed his obstacle course again. Since my first time, I had gotten faster at going over the tightrope and had beaten my record every time at the finish. And every time, Knuckles had challenged me there.

So, we met again, and we fought with grins on our faces. Knuckles was getting better at reading my moves. I noticed he was moving more fluidly than before.

"You look absolutely amazing tonight!" I spoke. "Have you been practicing?"

The Echidna turned red for a moment before he realized what I was talking about.

"Oh, my skills of combat!" he shouted with laughter. "Yes, I have been practicing with the hedgehog and the fox! I am getting much better at battling the hedgehog because of you."

"Did Sonic beat you all the time?"

"Not all the time. But when we first met, my goal was to destroy him in order to pursue the Master Emerald. He was the last apprentice of Longclaw, one of our foes who had kept the Master Emerald hidden from us."

"Is Longclaw one of those giant owls you speak of?"

"She was one of them, yes. And because Sonic was the last of her tribe, I blamed him for my tribe's defeat and ruining my life. Apparently, he blamed me for ruining his. But I did not believe he knew of my story and he sympathized with me instead. I thought it was a trick after I got trapped and I left him for dead. I... regret that."

We stopped fighting and sat down on the ledge.

"I am ashamed to say I worked with Dr. Robotnik," Knuckles continued. "I thought he was my friend, but Sonic helped me realize his true intentions. Dr. Robotnik took the Master Emerald, and Sonic saved my life. So I saved his life."

"It sounds like you two had more in common than you realized," I spoke. "You both value everyone's lives."

"Yes."

I looked at him and, once again, he had a look of deep sadness in his purple eyes.

"Thinking back on it now, I had wished we were a more peaceful people. My tribe, the Echidnas, and the Owls had fought each other for centuries over the Master Emerald. I did not truly learn of what it was capable of until I watched the hedgehog wield it. When he gave up the power, the three of us made a vow to protect it and use our powers to keep the universe safe."

He finally glanced at me.

"When I make a vow, Aumanil, I do not break that vow. Ever."

"I believe you. My dad instilled that same belief in me."

He smiled.

"I have told you my story. Now, what is yours?"

"The Hamato Clan has gone through as much as yours did," I explained. "They were always in battle with Foot Clan going back centuries into Feudal Japan. My clan defeated the Foot Clan once and for all but there was one survivor: a baby who was taken in. His name was Oroku Saki. He grew up adopted alongside a student named Hamato Yoshi. And they rivaled in everything. It did not hurt them at the time. Rather, they bonded and loved each other. That is, until they met a woman named Tang Shen, who eventually married Yoshi and had a daughter with him named Miwa. It enraged Saki to where he rediscovered the Foot Clan, destroyed the Hamato dojo, and accidentally killed Tang Shen. That blow was meant for Yoshi and the dojo burned to the ground. Yoshi survived and fled to New York City, because Shen always wanted to go there. Saki, meanwhile, found Miwa and raised her his own daughter, renaming her Karai."

Knuckles's eyes widened.

"Is not Karai one of your aunts?"

"Yes. Karai eventually discovered her true identity and is actually now a part of two clans: the Hamato Clan through her marriage to Leonardo, and she leads the Foot Clan with honor after decades of Saki's lies."

He gasped.

"Oroku Saki is... the Shredder?"

"Congratulations, you found the connection."

"And Hamato Yoshi... is he the one you call Master Splinter? And was he the one who found your father and the other turtles?"

"Yes, that is him."

"What happened to him?" Knuckles asked.

"The Shredder murdered Splinter in 2017, long before I was born."

"Is this the same Shredder who murdered your husband?"

"The Shredder that killed my husband is a clone."

"But a clone is an exact duplicate of the host, correct?"

"Yes," I answered, amazed that my companion understood the science behind cloning.

I watched his purple eyes turn from sadness to an expression of determination.

"I want to help you take him down. This Shredder should not be allowed to exist."

"Knuckles, thank you, but it is not your fight."

"Perhaps not, but I would like to fight with you and for you if you will have me."

My mind went back to my parents telling me about how they established their friendship.

Thank you, my mother had spoken. But it's not your fight.

Yes, it is, my father had replied with the same determination Knuckles is showing me now.

"I will definitely take you up on that, Echidna," I answered him. "You are quite the warrior. And we can use all the help we can get. But speaking of offers, there is something I want to ask you."

"Oh?"

I stood up, and he stood up with me, meeting me at eye level.

"I've been doing some thinking," I explained. "When you had asked me to dinner, I freaked out. I want to tell you just how sorry I am for pushing you away."

"You were not ready," Knuckles replied with understanding.

"But then I spoke to some friends about my feelings about James and my feelings for you. And..."

I took a deep breath in and I let it out, clearly feeling nervous.

"I would like to ask you to have dinner with me."

"Oh!" Knuckles exclaimed with surprise. "Are you feeling ready to do this?"

"Yes, I believe I am. We'll start out slow. If it goes well, then, of course, we'll do this again and again and again and again."

He laughed.

"I was thinking I could make you dinner, one of my signature dishes, and I promise to put you first. But I also thought we could have this dinner as a little picnic in my backyard by the beach. Then we can do a little race or a trial by combat if you'd like."

He smiled fondly at me.

"That sounds wonderful. I will accept your invitation with honor."

"And yes, this is a date. I am ready."

He blushed, turning fully red. I laughed. To try to calm him down, I put a hand on his left cheek. He tensed up at first, but then he melted into the touch, closing his eyes. The red went away from his peach-colored cheeks, and he had this smile on his face that reminded me of my dad.

I gasped. I realized that this was what my dad was talking about all along when he talked about what it meant to be in love. And it made me realize something else: James never gave me the same look when I did this with him.

I smiled fondly, now realizing that my choosing to move forward with Knuckles the Echidna was the right path to take.

April 18, 2061 - Westport, Connecticut, USA

LITTLE DONNIE'S POV

"Spotlite just released its full line-up," Ajay announced at our lunch table. "Fairfield will be competing."

"Fairfield?" Amy asked. "Isn't that a presitigious arts school?"

"No," Erin answered. "But they're practically theatre gods. They've won Spotlite three years in a row."

"How did they get the money to go to London three years in a row?" I asked with confusion.

"Rich people, I bet," Ajay replied.

"So, Fairfield is the favorite to win again?" Amy asked.

"Realistically, with them in the running, I'm not even sure we have a chance of winning now."

"That's okay," Rory said. "Winning's not everything."

"Um, have you met me? Of course winning is everything!"

"I mean, he is kind of right," Skye chimed in. "Anyone who says, it's an honor just to be nominated, is lying."

"Still, we shouldn't automatically see them as enemies," Amy suggested. "They're kids who love theatre, just like us! Maybe we can get to know each other!"

"She's got a point," I chimed in with a grin. "I've only been with you all for a couple weeks and I'm already loving it. I think we could be friends with the competition."

"Amy, Donnie, you two are so pure," Erin said with a cheesy smile.

"Pure and right!" Rory chimed in. "I want to make friends with them, too. They must be so cool and talented. Let's have a party! A meet the casts and crews kind of thing."

"I'm sure I can convince my parents to let me host it," Skye suggested. "Since they're weirdly invested in this now and all."

"Perfect!" Amy exclaimed happily. "Maybe Mr. Olson can help us contact them."

April 19, 2061

LILIANNA'S POV

I had just finished making dinner for my first date with Knuckles. I ultimately decided on sirloin steaks with mashed potatoes, carrots, and bread. I had saved the grapes in the fridge for later.

I put everything in the picnic basket: two plates, two sets of silverware, and all of the food, including the grapes. I grabbed two blankets from the closet and put those in the basket as well.

"Oh! Drinks!"

I panicked. I had no idea what his favorite drink was! I ultimately decided to simply bring a pitcher of water and two glasses. And then, I heard knocking.

"Whew!" I exclaimed, speaking to myself. "You can do this, Lily Mae. It is just dinner and a race. You are not making any big decisions tonight. James would want you to be happy and to have fun. Okay. We got this."

I blew another sigh, brushed my hands on my red strapped dress, and walked to the door. I opened it and found Knuckles standing there, holding a thermos in one of his hands.

"Hello, Knuckles," I greeted him with a smile.

"Good evening, Aumanil."

"I'm just Lily tonight. Aumanil is always in the same dress unless someone gifts her with a new one."

"Noted."

"Please, come in."

I led Knuckles into the house and into the kitchen.

"Would you like some help?"

"Thank you!" I replied enthusiastically.

"Where are your children?" Knuckles asked with intrigue.

"Donatello is at a cast party. He and his friends discovered another school in Connecticut is competing in London as well and they wanted to meet them. Mika and Vaia are at the Robinsons. Karena and Wilbur are watching them."

"So, we are alone?"

"Yes, we are. Is that okay?"

"Yes. Yes, it is. Shall we go?"

"Yes! Do you need help with your thermos? Oh! Let me get a couple of mugs."

After I retrieved the mugs, I led Knuckles, who carried everything, outside to the beach. I found a good place for us to dine and we set everything up.

"Why are there two blankets?" Knuckles asked.

"In case one of us gets cold. It does get cool here at night. Well, let's get the food out!"

The first thing we saw were...

"Grapes!" Knuckles exclaimed excitedly. "You remembered!"

"Yes, I did. No other guest of mine has ever asked for grapes the way you did on your first visit. What's in the thermos?"

"Coffee. Actually, it's what the fox calls a... cappuccino?"

"That actually sounds amazing. I forgot what your favorite drink was and opted for water."

"My favorite drink is coffee. But we made this one special just for you."

"Just how special is this cappuccino?" I asked with my gap-toothed grin.

"Caramel and vanilla."

"That is how I like my cappuccinos. You listened."

"Actually, I read it in a news article you interviewed for."

I chuckled.

"Right. All those interviews I did for the Todayland Herald when I first started out."

"I need to ask you something. Why Aumanil? What prompted you to create that identity?"

I paused in the midst of taking the carrots out, then I continued with the mashed potatoes and the steak.

"I got in trouble for using my powers in school one day and accidentally harming another student," I explained. "I swore to never let that happen again. But, like you, I also want to use my powers to help others. I wanted to separate a simple kunoichi from a kunoichi with powers, so my dad and I looked up names to represent what I stand for. Aumanil is Inuit for compassion."

"What is Inuit?" Knuckles asked.

"It's a First Native American tribe that, like yours, is about extinct. My people treated these Native Americans so horribly in the past, believing they were savages who would never adapt to our ways. But we needed to learn from them how to survive and thrive. Each tribe has their own language, and learning about all the different names has been fascinating."

"It is the same way where I am from."

I made a plate for Knuckles and a plate for myself while Knuckles poured each of us a cup of the cappuccino. Then, we started to eat.

"I have gathered a list of questions for you," Knuckles suggested. "The fox and the hedgehog helped me with this list."

"Wow! You came prepared. Well, let me try to find a website with a list of questions to ask you."

"Number one: what made you interested in going out with me?"

"Oh goodness!" I exclaimed again. "Right into it, huh? Well, ever since you gave me comfort when I spilled the beans about James, I can't stop thinking about you. You have this... selflessness in you that you have shared with not only me but my children as well. Even when I did not want to be with you in the moment, you always show up in my mind. I have a feeling that if any of us get into trouble, you are going to be right there to help us get out of it. Or you would tell us to confront it."

"That is a very good answer," Knuckles complimented. "I feel honored for what you have said. Should we take turns?"

"That's a good idea. Let's see... What kind of music do you like?"

"I have heard of many songs in my time here. But my jam is Scandal's The Warrior."

I gapped my mouth open.

"That's one of my favorite songs, too! Let me put it on!"

As I put the song on, I noticed that this song fell under two genres.

"So I take it your favorite genre is rock?" I asked.

"Is Rock You Like a Hurricane considered rock?"

"Yes, hard rock and heavy metal."

"Then, yes. Yes, it is."

"You and my dad would get along really well. The harder the rock, the better. Your turn."

"Now, hold on. What is your favorite music? Is it rock as well?"

"It's pop, actually. Christina Grimmie is my favorite musician. I can sing her songs really well."

"You will have to sing for me some time."

I smiled.

"I'd like that."

"Who is the person you talk to the most?" Knuckles asked me.

"That's a better question," I replied with laughter. "My best friend Wilbur. I have no siblings, so Wilbur has been like a brother to me ever since we met all those years ago. He's always been there for me, even if we disagree sometimes. I pretty much tell him everything now that James is gone."

"I would like to meet him some time."

"You should! Wilbur is pretty much the Sonic of Westport, Connecticut. He makes motivational speeches out of nothing and he still inspires the people around him to keep moving forward. My turn: What does home mean for you?"

"Before I answer that, please allow me to tell you that the food is delicious. What a feast!"

"Thank you! I'm glad you enjoy it!"

"But home..."

He sighed.

"Before I met anybody here on Earth, I had travelled to every part of the galaxy, seeing planets and stars you can only imagine. But there was nowhere I could call home. Then I went on a quest to train a warrior in the ways of the Echidna. We went to Reno, Nevada for a bowling tournament. I learned that being home means being with the people you love, your family and your friends. I have called Earth, and Green Hills, my home since then."

I smiled fondly at him, sipping my coffee in contentment.

"I'm so happy you found what you were looking for after being alone for so long. I cannot imagine what you have been through."

"Yes. I also learned that life changes every day. But we must live each day to the fullest, doing the things you love."

"You are not just selfless, but you are wise as well. You've learned well during your time here."

We continued to exchange questions and eat our dinner. Knuckles ended up sharing his dessert with me and I witnessed his sweetness for the first time. Mika was right about him. He may be a warrior, but deep down, he had a heart of gold. I cracked up when he revealed that one of his favorite desserts was "pie made of limes that are key."

Then, we did our trial by combat, listening to The Warrior in the background. Knuckles ended up defeating me easily as I was wearing an evening dress and was limited in my mobility as a kunoichi.

"I believe you were better off in your Aumanil dress," Knuckles said with a grin.

"Hey, I gotta let you defeat me sometimes."

"Sometimes?"

"Race you inside!"

I darted my way towards the house.

"What about the food?" Knuckles yelled.

"Later!" I shot back.

I glanced back and found him running after me. I laughed merrily and he eventually joined in. As to who won the race...

"Ha!" I exclaimed. "I win!"

"Hey, only because I did not use my super speed!" Knuckles shot back.

We laughed together and looked out to Long Island Sound.

"I believe this has been a successful first date," Knuckles said, smiling with contentment.

"I agree. What do you think our next date should be? You can pick this time."

"How about bowling?"

"I love bowling," I replied with a grin. "It's a date!"

SLAM!

"What was that?" Knuckles asked, looking startled.

I glanced inside and saw one of my children returning. We went inside and found Little Donnie angrily slamming his shoes on the ground.

"Donatello!" we exclaimed at the same time.

"What happened?" I asked.

"Those so-called friends are the meanest people I've ever met!" Little Donnie shouted.

"What happened?" Knuckles asked slowly.

We watched my son stomp up the stairs and slam the door to his room.

"Oh dear," I mumbled. "I should give him a few minutes to calm down."

"I'll go get the food," Knuckles replied with a frown.

Knuckles was in and out with the food.

"That was fast! Is that everything?"

"Yes. Is... is Donatello always that way?"

"Only when he believes something is not fair," I answered. "Something must have happened at the party. I should go talk to him."

"I am coming with you," Knuckles said with determination.

"Knuckles, please--"

"I insist."

I smiled at him.

"You really care for him, do you?"

"Starlight, I have a confession to make. I do not wish what has happened to me on anybody. When I spoke to Donatello about his father, it felt like I was talking to my own son, even if I do not have one."

I looked into his purple eyes. Even if I could not read his mind, I could tell my son meant a lot to him. I sighed and nodded, giving him permission to talk to Donatello with me.

We went up the stairs, knocked on his door, and went into his room. He had taken his clothes off and had gotten into bed. Yet, the light was still on.

"Hello, Donatello," I greeted him. "Are you okay?"

"Is it alright if I join in on this conversation?" Knuckles asked.

"Oh!" Little Donnie exclaimed. "Hi, Knuckles. Of course, you can."

I sat on one side of the bed while my companion sat on the other side. Little Donnie sat up.

"The party was going alright at first until the Fairfield kids started insulting us," he explained. "They think they are all on the high horse, boasting about how better they are than us. They think we don't dress well and that we're stupid. They couldn't even accept the fact they lost a rap battle to us. I mean, just how vain can they be?"

Little Donnie sighed.

"I am sorry for coming in angry, Mom. I hope I didn't ruin your date with Knuckles."

"You didn't ruin anything, sweetheart," I assured him.

"We had just started planning our second date," Knuckles explained. "We only wanted to make sure you are okay."

Little Donnie smiled.

"I'm glad the date went well. But what do I do if we encounter these kids in London?"

"Don't ever stop being who you are," I answered with confidence. "You are better than them."

"It will be tempting to fight," Knuckles explained. "But it is not the answer to every situation. Remember what I told you before. You have the answer already... in here."

The Echidna put his fist over his heart, and Little Donnie mimicked him. We laughed.

"Tomorrow will be a better day," Knuckles assured him.

"Yes, sir. I think I'm ready to go to sleep."

I kissed him on the forehead.

"I love you, my son," I told him.

"I love you, too, Mom. Good night, Knuckles."

"Good night, Donatello."

I turned off the light and closed the door once Knuckles was out of the room.

"I'm glad it wasn't anything serious," I spoke. "I'm sorry our date ended this way."

"I am not," Knuckles replied with a grin. "It felt nice talking to Donatello together."

I frowned.

"Starlight? What is wrong?"

"I realized something when I asked you out and I realized something just now. When I asked you out and I touched your cheek, you gave me a look that said, this is where I belong. James never looked like that when I did that to him. And then tonight, when we spoke to Donatello together, there was only one time when James and I spoke to him together: his fifth birthday before we moved back to New York. Other than that, it was always only me talking to him or James talking to him."

I shook my head.

"I'm probably overthinking this, but... what if my marriage to James was not as... fulfilling as I thought?"

"How long have you known him?" Knuckles asked me.

"We were high school sweethearts. We had known each other for twenty-two years."

I laughed.

"It's funny. My first moments with him were at a dance. I spent my last moments with him dancing."

I felt tears coming to my eyes.

"Oh, Lily, come here."

Knuckles pulled me into his warm body and I cried into his shoulder. For the first time in my life, I had doubts about my marriage to James, and it crushed me.