Night time in the lair could be a scary time. Mikey huddled under his blankets pulling his stuffed cat as close to him as he could. He knew there was nothing to be scared of, they’d beaten the bad guy and saved the day. Yet he could not stop shaking. The darkness pressed in around him, like a monster looming down at him making him feel smaller and smaller. Across from him he could hear Donnie sleeping, his gentle snores a sign that he wasn't suffering the fear that gripped Mikey so badly he felt like he might throw up. Grabbing his pillow he buried his head against the fabric, letting out an involuntary sob as he began speaking to himself.

“There’s nothing to be scared of. There’s nothing to be scared of.”

He repeated those words over and over again willing them to calm him down; they didn’t. His heart continued to pound in his chest as tears fell from his eyes.

“There’s nothing to be scared of.”

He hated this feeling, of being helpless, of being so scared that his body refused to stop shaking. Again he let out a sob as he pressed his head harder against the pillow.

“Mikey?”

he yelped at the sound of Donnie’s voice, forgetting for a moment that it was his brother who had spoken.

“Mikey what’s wrong?”

he tried to respond, to tell Donnie that nothing was wrong; yet he couldn't speak. His throat constricted as he tried to form words.

“Mikey?”

the darkness pressed in around him. he couldn't see anything beyond his bed. He could hear movement but couldn't see its source; which only served to scare Mikey more, again he sobbed pressing his face into the pillow until it hurt.

“There’s nothing to be scared of. There’s nothing to be scared of.”

“Mikey.”

He screamed into his pillow as something warm touched his shoulder. He tried to run, to get away from the unknown object only to get tangled in his sheets making him thrash around violently.

“Mikey calm down it’s me, Donnie!”

Donnie’s voice was a little frantic. Mikey sobbed again.

“Mikey…..please…….I’m right here.”

He felt Donnie touch his hand; he reacted without thinking his fingers frantically grabbing at Donnie’s hand as more sobs wracked his body.

“Mikey please……what’s wrong?”

he felt his bed shift as donnie slowly sat down next to him.

“Mikey….”

Donnie had never seen his brother this upset before. He watched as Mikey’s entire body shook, so badly that it caused his bed to vibrate. He didn’t have to see Mikey’s face; which was buried against his pillow, to know that Mikey was crying. He winced slightly as Mikey squeezed his hand so tightly that it almost hurt; he’d forgotten how strong Mikey could be when he was scared. Taking a breath he spoke in a soft voice.

“Mikey….I’m going to move ok. Please don't freak out."

Mikey didn’t respond, only gripped his hand a little bit tighter. Donnie moved slowly, clambering over Mikey’s prone form before settling down next to him on the mattress. Pulling back the blankets Donnie shivered slightly at the heat contract between the cold night air and being under the covers. He shifted again, moving closer to Mikey who turned to face him burying his face just under Donnie’s neck; his entire body continuing to shake. Donnie smiled, running his hand down Mikey’s neck and shell.

“shhh, shhh it’s ok Mikey. I’m here. Shhh everything ok.”

Mikey continued to shake but he did manage to take a breath; something Donnie took as a small victory. He wasn’t sure how long they stayed like this, him petting Mikey’s neck and shell while Mikey’s shaking became less and less until they all together vanished. He felt Mikey take several deep breaths as the panic that had gripped him so severely, subsided. After a moment of silence Mikey spoke; his voice hoarse and sore from his sobbing.

“th..thank you.”

In response Donnie squeezed Mikey’s body.

“it’s ok Mikey. I’m right here, ok?”

he felt Mikey nod.

“will…..will you please not tell Raph or Leo about this?”

Donnie nodded. He knew Mikey hated to be teased and this was certainly something raph would bug him about.

“Mikey……can I ask…..what happened? What made you so scared?”

he felt Mikey shift, burying his forehead against Donnie’s chest before speaking.

“remember……remember when I said I saw the Squirrelanoids; because of those fear spores?”

Donnie nodded. it was hard to forget a day like that. Less than a week ago despite all their training and discipline nearly all of them had been reduced to quivering lumps sobbing hysterically.

“yes, I remember.”

He felt Mikey take a shuddering breath before continuing.

“I…..I lied. I didn’t see Squirrelanoids.”

Donnie nodded puling Mikey a little closer. He’d had a feeling that the normally happy turtle had lied to them. While the others had gone on for hours about what they had seen Mikey had been oddly quite, only saying “Squirrelanoids” after they had pestered him.

“what…..what did you really see Mikey?”

he felt Mikey taking another deep breath his body beginning to shake again.

“shh Mikey. It’s ok, you don't need to-”

but Mikey cut him off, shaking his head against Donnie’s chest.

“no…I….I need to say it. I need to say what I saw.”

Donnie hugged Mikey against his body, willing his brother to be strong as he struggled to describe his worst fear.

“I…..I was in a room…..it was so dark….”

Donnie held Mikey tighter as he began to shake again.

“it was so dark Donnie. I couldn’t even see my hand in front of my face.”

Donnie nodded.

“and…..and I could……there were voices….your voices. Yours and Leo’s and Raph's. you were all……you were all laughing at me. calling me weak, useless…..a……a burden.”

He began to cry again, not the giant sobs that had wracked his body before but silent tears that spilled down his cheeks and drenched Donnie’s chest. In response Donnie kissed the top of Mikey’s head.

“shh…..it’s ok, let it out.”

He clung to Donnie’s form holding onto the genus turtle for support as more tear followed down his face.

“there were…..things……in the darkness……they attacked me. I……I tried to defend myself but……I couldn't. i called out to you guys. i begged you to help me.....but you all just continued to laugh and.......and call me useless.”

Mikey’s voice broke as it all became too much. His body began to shake again as the memory of what he had seen grabbed at him.

“Mikey….MIKEY.”

Donnie’s voice was firm, firm enough to cut through the fog of fear that gripped Mikey. Slowly Mikey looked up at Donnie; just barely able to make out his brother’s face in the darkness.

“Mikey, listen to me. you’re not weak, you’re not useless, you’re not a burden. You’re my brother.”

Mikey nodded and Donnie continued.

“you are the happiest, kindest, most gentle turtle I’ve ever met.”

Again Mikey nodded.

“Thanks Donnie.”

He gave Donnie’s body a gentle squeeze as he spoke. He’d stopped crying now. He watched as Donnie gathered up a small handful of blankets and wiped the remaining tears off his face.

“Mikey….do you want me to stay with you tonight?”

Mikey nodded. Donnie smiled. “ok. But you have to promise me something.”

Mikey nodded,

“anything.” Donnie hugged his closer.

“don't cry anymore.”

Mikey gave him a weak smile.

“ok Donnie. I promise, I won’t cry anymore.”

Donnie smiled and watched as Mikey closed his eyes, his body relaxing slightly. Again Donnie kissed the top of Mikey’s head. Mikey shifted, looking up at him.

“thank you…….you’re always so nice to me. even when I mess up or cause problems.”

Donnie gave Mikey a small squeeze.

“Us little brothers have to stick together.”

Mikey giggled. Leo and raph did like to constantly remind them that Donnie and Mikey were the younger brothers. Donnie sighed as Mikey cuddled up a little closer to him. “still…..thank you.” Donnie nodded and shifted making himself more comfortable as he slept.

“goodnight Mikey.”

Mikey squeezed his hand,

“goodnight Donnie.”

THE NEXT DAY

Donnie spun around doing his best to make Mikey back up as the orange banded turtle tried to get in close. Moring sparing was always predictable. Leo and raph would face off against each other leaving Donnie and Mikey to spar against each other. Not that either of them minded. Raph and Leo would go all out doing their best to prove which of them was the best fighter; while Mikey and Donnie would go slower, both of them still waking up. Mikey grunted as Donnie lunged at him knocking him off his feet and pinning him to the ground with hi staff across his chest.

“sleep well last night?”

Mikey nodded but continued to struggle against Donnie’s grip.

“yeah……thanks.”

Donnie shrugged an action that allowed Mikey to push him away before rolling up to his feet. across the room Donnie grinned.

“don't mention it. like I said….”

His words trailed off as Mikey lashed out making Donnie duck and roll to avoid Mikey’s whirling chucks.

“…..us little brothers have to stick together.”

Mikey nodded as he continued his assault, all of which Donnie was able to avoid. Going on the offensive Donnie swung low knocking his staff against Mikey’s knee making the youngest turtle yelp slightly.

“HEY DONNIE KEEP YOUR WOOD TO YOURSELF.”

Donnie smiled at the joke he’d heard a million times before. Continuing on offense Donnie jabbed at Mikey’s chest making the turtle bend backwards to avoid being hit.

“I DON'T WANT YOUR WOOD ALL OVER MY CHEST EITHER.”

Again Donnie smiled. Spinning around Donnie swung out not with his staff but his foot, sweeping Mikey’s legs out from under him sending him to the floor. Tacking the surprised turtle Donnie grinned as he send Mikey’s chucks skittering across the floor away from him.

“Really? You’re making fun of my wood? I’m not the one who swings my wood about like a mad man.”

Mikey grinned struggling to get free.

“Not a bad comeback Donnie; but I would have mentioned how skillful I am when I use my wood.”

Donnie shrugged struggling to keep Mikey down.

“I’ll remember that, but for now….”

Donnie acted suddenly, springing to his feet and bringing his staff down to it pointed at Mikey’s face who froze as the warm wood touched the spot between his eyes.

“I win.”

Mikey smiled and nodded.

“Yeah yeah. You win.”

Donnie grinned and offered his hand to Mikey who took it. Behind them master splinter spoke.

“good, Donatello, Michelangelo. You’ve both great improved your skills.”

They both bowed to splinter.

“Thank you Sensei.”

Splinter smiled. A noise behind them made all three of them turn. Leo and raph were on the floor rolling around as they punched and kicked at each other their weapons laying completely forgotten several feet away.

“um…….should we break them up?”

it was obvious from Mikey’s tone that he didn’t really want to. Splinter shook his head.

“No…..I’ll let them fight for a bit longer and then break them up. for now why don't you two go and start fixing breakfast?”

Again Mikey and Donnie bowed to master splinter before leaving the dojo and crossing the lair to the kitchen. Breakfast had always been Mikey’s domain. Dropping himself into a chair Donnie watched as Mikey began to cook; first heating up the pan then breaking the eggs, before flipping them to be sure they didn’t burn. In the back of his mind Donnie couldn't help but be a little jealous. Cooking seemed to come so naturally to Mikey where as cooking was extremely difficult to him. Donnie sighed and watched as Mikey again flipped the eggs. It wasn't like cooking itself was hard, it was just the conversion and manipulation of ingredients to produce food and yet; when Donnie tried to cook it always came out…..blah. it wasn't like the food was bad, it was certainly more edible then anything Leo or Raph could make but it just wasn't as good as Mikey’s cooking. Donnie watched half hypnotized as Mikey flipped the eggs giggling as he did so before pulling the eggs out of the pan and adding new ones. He seemed so….happy. so excited that he was cooking them breakfast; which didn’t seem to be a chore for him but a passion.

“Hey Donnie…..you ok?”

Mikey was looking at him sideways. Donnie nodded quickly looking down as he felt his face heat up.

“yeah….yeah I’m fine.”

Was he blushing? He shook his head; why was he reacting this way? He felt Mikey move in closer.

“you sure…you’re face is all red. Are you getting sick?”

Again Donnie shook his head.

“no….no…..I’m just……..can I ask you something?”

his mind was reeling searching for something to take the focus off of him; in his chest his heart beat faster. Mikey nodded before turning to flip the eggs in the pan.

“Sure Donnie. What is it?”

Donnie gulped willing the odd fluttering in his chest to go away.

“Would you…..teach me how to cook?”

Mikey looked up at him for a moment frowning slightly.

“But….you already know how to cook.” Donnie sighed,

“not as well as you. Everything I make comes out……bland. Can you show me how to make things with flavor?”

Mikey giggled and nodded.

“Sure. But you must call me 'master' or 'sir' at all times.”

Donnie glared at Mikey for a moment,

“yeah……no.”

as he spoke he shook his head slightly. Again Mikey giggled.

“You’re no fun. But ok I’ll still teach you. How about you help me fix dinner?”

Donnie nodded. “ok……I’ll do my best.” Mikey smiled and nodded at him.

“Good. Do you want any toast with your breakfast?”

nodding Donnie looked back at the dojo as master splinter’s voice cut through the relative silence of the lair.

“BREAK IT UP! BREAK IT UP!”

rolling his eyes Donnie spoke.

“I gotta go check on things in my lab. Can you call me when breakfast is ready?”

Mikey nodded and busied himself with fixing the rest of the meal. Donnie stayed just a moment longer, watching as Mikey hummed a small tune as he dropped several pieces of bread into some batter before dropping them in the pan. Getting up Donnie found his legs shook slightly as he moved across the lair and entered his lab. Breathing in a sigh of relief Donnie slumped against the wall dropping down until he was sitting on the floor. His heart returned to its fast beating making his shake slightly as he sat there. He did his best to breathe inhaling and exhaling. Why was he reacting this way? Forcing himself to stand Donnie practically threw himself at his books trying to busy himself with something to take his mind of the memory of Mikey giggling. He felt a shudder run up his spine as he recalled how Mikey had smiled as they had spared together. How despite how scared he had been the night before he continued to smile and act as if nothing was wrong. Did Mikey have nightmares like that often? That thought made his freeze as it echoed in his head.

He pictured his smiling brother as scared as he had been last night; his whole body shaking as he tried to muffle his sobbing so he wouldn’t wake Donnie. Donnie’s breath hitched in his chest; he tended to fall asleep quickly and sleep hard, he wouldn’t have heard Mikey last night if he hadn’t stayed up extra late working on one of his projects. He felt his heart clench as he imagined what Mikey would have done if he hadn’t stayed up late that night; his mind flooding with images of Mikey sobbing alone while he, Donnie slept just a few feet away. Something in his chest clenched with a need, a need to protect Mikey from those fears and nightmares that haunted him.  

“DONNIE TIME FOR BREAKFAST!”

he nearly jumped out of his shell as Mikey’s voice echoed through the lair. It took several deep breathes to return his heartbeat back to normal, before he slowly stood up and took another breathe before leaving his lab. Dropping himself down into his seat Donnie smiled at Mikey as the youngest turtle pushed a plate of french toast and eggs in front of him.

“ENJOY!”

something in Mikey’s voice made Donnie shudder; but any more thought to his odd behavior were washed away as he began to eat. Around the table they all seemed to appreciate Mikey’s cooking. Pausing for a moment Donnie glanced around the table taking in the usual staples Mikey had fixed. Bacon and eggs for raph, simple toast with butter for Leo, a cup of tea for splinter, and for Mikey himself a bowl of cereal.

Continuing to look at Mikey Donnie spoke.

“hey Mikey……why don't you ever fix yourself anything?”

every stopped eating, looking to Mikey who cocked his head sideways.

“huh? I made myself cereal.”

Donnie shook his head.

“Yeah…..but you made me french toast, and raph bacon and eggs, you even made splinter tea. But…..you only made cereal for yourself. Why?”

across the table Mikey shrugged.

“I like cereal.”

With that Mikey went back to eating, crunching away at his cereal while everyone else continued to look at him for a moment before going back to their own meals. Every so often Donnie would glance up at Mikey who for the most part avoided his gaze.

LATER

Donnie watched as Leo pointed to the map of new York that hung from the wall. All over the map they had circled buildings in purple that were controlled by the purple dragons while kraang operations were highlighted in pink.

“April and Casey say that the kraang have been active in this area of the city. At the same time the purple dragons have been muscling in on several of the local businesses. We’ll break up into two teams, one team will watch the kraang, and the other team will persuade the purple dragons to go away.”

Donnie rolled his eyes, he know what was going to happen next.

“Donnie and I will-”

but Leo was cut off as Raph groaned.

“Don’t stick me wth Mikey. He does nothing but goof off the entire time. It drives me crazy.”

Next to Donnie Mikey shifted, his shoulders slumping forward slightly as he mumbled,.

“I do not goof off the WHOLE time. Just…..some of the time, when I get bored.”

Raph ingored Mikey and continued.

“Plus you’re gunna stick us on the boring kraang mission while you and Donnie get to kick some purple dragon ass.”

Leo shifted obvious that what Raph had said was true.

“Donnie has more discretion then you. He won’t trash the stores we’re trying to protect while we fight.”

Raph grumbled and lat forward in his chair.

“but Mikey’s gunna be annoying the whole time if we do nothing but sit around and watch the kraang.”

From his spot against the wall Donnie felt his face frown at Raph. Unseen by the red banded turtle Mikey’s shoulder slumped slightly, as what Raph had said hurt him a little.

“if anyone cares…”

Donnie spoke loud enough to draw Raph's and Leo’s attention towards him.

“I’d rather monitor the kraang then fight purple dragons. I’ll switch with Raph and he can go pummel some thugs. Sound good?”

Leo sighed as Raph shoved his hands into the air.

“YES!”

behind Raph Mikey shifted slightly, smiling weakly at Donnie who smiled back at him. As they broke up into their teams and heading their separate ways Mikey spoke.

“Why did you do that? Wouldn’t you rather fight the purple dragons?”

as he spoke Mikey shifted nervously as though he’d been caught doing something he shouldn’t have. Donnie shrugged.

“I’m more interested in the kraang then in the purple dragons.”

Mikey nodded but continued to look dejected.

“But…..you’re stuck with me.”

Donnie stopped walking and out his hand on Mikey’s shoulder.

“Leo and Raph were being jerks. You’re just as skilled as they are just at other things. If we were all carbon copies of each other we wouldn’t work as well as we do, together. Ok?”

Mikey nodded but continued to look sad as they moved through the sewer before coming to a stop at a ladder. Moving up the ladder Donnie paused, pushing the manhole covering out of the way before peeking up at the surface. After making sure the coas was clear Donnie signaled to Mikey who followed him up and out of the sewer tunnel before darting up a fire escape and running along the rooftops.

As they ran Donnie spoke.

“just so we’re both clear on what it is we’re doing; we’re going to monitor a shipping business that the kraang are running. We’ll sit on the roof across the street and monitor the trucks that come and go, making notes of their license plates. Got it.”

next to him Mikey nodded, following Donnie across the rooftops until they came to the one they wanted. Coming to a stop Donnie dropped down to one knee and began setting up the equipment he’d brought; a motion sensor hooked up to a camera to take photos. Once the gear was set up Donnie gave Mikey a thumbs up who returned it half heatedly.

“Mikey…..are you ok?”

Donnie watched as Mikey nodded, but sat down on the roof and pulled his knees against his legs. Making sure the equipment was on Donnie moved over to Mikey and sat down next to him, before putting his arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“Mikey…..tell me what’s wrong.”

But Mikey shook his head. Sighing Donnie gave his youngest brother a gentle squeeze.

“Was it what Leo and Raph said?”

after a moment Mikey nodded, his eyes looked sad and dejected. Squeezing Mikey again Donnie spoke.

“it’s not true Mikey. You’re a great ninja.”

But Mikey shook his head.

“no….no I’m not. I always screw up what I’m supposed to be doing. The only time I did anything right was when I blew up that tanker with my water balloon. Face it Donnie……I’m a screw up.”

Donnie felt his heart clench as Mikey buried his face in his knees and began to shake; Donnie could tell he was crying. Gently he rubbed Mikey’s neck and shell.

“That’s not true Mikey. Splinter says we all have a roll to fill in the family.”

Mikey looked up at him, small tears leaking down his face.

“Great, so I get to be the family screw up. who can only cook breakfast get captured or used as bait for all the traps? So my role in the family is to be Shaggy from Scooby-doo?”

Donnie bit his lip as he wrapped his other arm around Mikey’s shoulders.

“no Mikey. You’re the innocent one. The one who reminds us all not to take ourselves too seriously and to step back and relax sometimes. Think about it; if you weren’t there to aggravate Raph he and Leo probably would have killed each other by now. And if you didn’t pop in and ask me random questions like you do I wouldn’t know half as much of the stuff that I do know.”

Mikey shrugged still crying.

“But you also wouldn’t have to babysit me while we fight, or come rescue me when I get captured.”

Nodding slightly Donnie spoke.

“Maybe so but still……..”

he squeezed Mikey again.

“I’m happy you’re here with me.”

Mikey looked up at him.

“Why?”

Donnie shrugged.

“Cause if I was with Leo I’d be listening to him go on and on about the need for secrecy; and if I was with Raph I’d be holding him back so he doesn’t blow our cover. With you I can just sit here and talk.”

Mikey stopped cry and smiled weakly at Donnie who smiled back.

“th…thanks Donnie.”

Donnie smiled and hugged Mikey again.

“What are slightly older brothers here for?”

Mikey giggled a little, the sound sending a small shiver through Donnie’s body. They remind like this, sitting on the room while the motion censored camera took pictures. After a few minutes Mikey spoke.

“Donnie…..can I ask you a question about the kraang?”

Donnie nodded. “yes; but I may not have the answer.”

Mikey nodded and looked at his feet for a moment.

“sorry if it’s a dumb question but……why do you think the kraang talk like that? they’re always just ‘kraang’, they never talk about themselves specifically. Why do you think that is?”

as Mikey’s words sunk in Donnie gave him another small hug, he was proud of his youngest brother. Most people wouldn’t have cared about such a simple question; but then again Donnie was not ‘most people’.

“well Mikey, I think it might be because they don't normally communicate through speech. I’ve wondered for a while now if they all share some kind of hive-mind-telepathy. If that is the case then it’s possible they don't view themselves as a singular being or individuals. They might just all be kraang.”

Mikey looked at him slightly confused.

“I don't……sorry it was a dumb question.”

Donnie sighed and shook his head.

“no Mikey, it was a good question. You just didn’t understand my answer. Right?”

after a moment Mikey nodded while mumbling

“sorry.”

Donnie smiled.

“it’s nothing to be sorry about. Which part confused you?”

Mikey was silent for a moment as he thought.

“The bit about singular beings.”

Donnie smiled again.

“a singular being mean 1 individual. Like you, you Mikey are just that; Mikey. You can't be anyone else because you’re you. Even if you studied and trained to be like someone else you would also have a little something that would give you away as being Mikey and not the other person. Does that make sense?”

Mikey nodded and Donnie continued.

“If the kraang have a hive-mind then that means all their minds are connected through telepathy or some other ways of communications. Like if you could hear Leo’s thoughts.”

Again Mikey nodded, sitting up a little straighter.

“So like mind reading?”

Donnie nodded.

“Yes. Now imagine if you could read everyone’s’ mind at the same time. Not just a few people’s minds but say…..the mind of everyone in the city.”

Mikey nodded.

“I think I’d get a headache.”

Donnie chuckled slightly.

“Yes you would. But you also might have a hard time remembering who YOU are. It’s possible that you could become lost in other people’s thoughts and emotions. If that were t happen your mind would begin to fracture and fragment as it tried to save itself from insanity.”

Mikey let out a small giggle as he nodded. He understood what Donnie was saying; and this made him very happy. Donnie smiled at the faintly giggling Mikey before continuing.

“but even if you got lost in other people’s thoughts and emotions you would still be Mikey. You would just be lost. Which means that it’s possible that if a person’s mind were strong enough they could……in a way, take control of the hive-mind; become its leader in a way. By doing that they could control the others in the hive and give them something specific to focus on so they don't get lost in each other’s thoughts.”

Again Mikey nodded, his face showing how happy he was to be able to understand what Donnie was saying.

“I think it’s possible that Kraang is the leader of the kraang.”

Mikey nodded but frowned.

“But then why are they all kraang?”

Donnie shrugged.

“I don't really know. Perhaps the leader kraang wants them to be like little clones of itself. Or perhaps they all just adopted the name because it’s easier to remember the leader’s name rather than their own. I just don't know enough about the kraang to have that answer.”

Mikey shifted a little.

“Sorry…..I didn’t mean to irritate you.”

Donnie shook his head and hugged Mikey again.

“You didn’t Mikey. You asked a question and I gave you the best answer I have.”

When Mikey continued to look sad Donnie patted his shoulder.

“Mikey….questions like the one you just asked are part of the scientific process. Without questions we’d have no reason to try and improve our way of life. For instance what if we’d never asked splinter if there was anything other than the sewers? What would our lives be like then?”

Mikey looked at him thoughtfully for a moment before speaking.

“I guess……I guess we’d still be underground training?”

Donnie nodded.

“yes. We never would have met April or Casey. We never would have gotten to try pizza, we never would have become the people we are today. We are who we are because of the questions we ask. Ok?”

Mikey nodded, and Donnie smiled.

“Think about it. in a way you’re just as much of a scientist as me…….just not with science.”

Mikey looked at him confused.

“Huh?”

Donnie smiled.

“You’re cooking. You’re always fixing new dishes ad combining new flavors to see how they turn out. That similar to a scientists who decides to mix two different chemicals together to see what happens.”

Mikey stared at him stunned for a moment before speaking.

“Thanks Donnie……I’m feeling better now.”

As he spoke Mikey hugged Donnie who hugged him back.

“I’m glad Mikey. If you don't mind…….I have a question for you.”

Mikey nodded.

“Ok.”

Donnie paused for a moment as he looked his brother up and down; Mikey was no longer slumped over and sad looking but instead straight backed and grinning.

“How often do you stay awake like you did last night?”

Mikey’s stance changed, he became embarrassed slightly, fidgeting in his spot before speaking.

“Um…….once or twice a week?”

as he spoke he smiled sheepishly at Donnie who smiled warmly back at him. Reaching down Donnie put his hand over Mikey’s hand.

“Next time that happens come and wake me up and we’ll sleep like we did last night. Ok?”

Mikey smiled gratefully at Donnie.

“ok.” Donnie nodded.

“I mean it Mikey. Just wake me up and we can cuddle up like we used to when we were kids.”

Mikey nodded.

“ok Donnie. I will, I promise.”

He watched as Mikey’s eyes fluttered slightly a sign that he was still affected by his lack of sleep.

“Did you wanna rest a little while we wait?”

Mikey looked at him for a moment.

“Will you be ok by yourself?”

Donnie nodded.

“Yeah I’ll be fine. I’ll just sit here and keep you company, ok?”

Mikey nodded and shifted, leaning sideways so he could be more comfortable. After a moment Mikey lay his head down sideways against Donnie’s shoulder; again Donnie felt his heart speed up slightly for some unknown reason. The arm that was still around Mikey’s shoulder gripped him a little tighter.

“I’ll wake you up in 30 minutes ok Mikey.”

Mikey nodded slowly.

“sounds……good……..bro…..ZZZZZZZZ.”

30 MINUTES LATER

It was odd Donnie mused. He’d never actually watched Mikey sleep before. Yes Mikey fell asleep during mediation from time to time. But Donnie had never really taken the time to study Mikey like this. The younger turtle grunted shifting slightly as he did something in his dream. His mouth twitched and moving showing only the faintest hint of the emotions he might be feelings. Every so often his legs would tense as though getting ready to move. Glancing down at his watch Donnie smiled as he found it had been 30 minutes. Reaching out with his free hand Donnie gently shook Mikey’s shoulder.

“Mikey? Mikey? It’s time to wake up.”

Mikey didn’t wake up, only grunted and mumbled something before trying to fall back asleep. Donnie shook him a little harder.

“Mikey……time to wake up.”

again Mikey mumbled something, this time loud enough for Donnie to hear.

“Nnnn……kiss……….good.”

Donnie raised an eyebrow as Mikey let out a gentle moan. Could his brother be having a dream that involved kissing?

“Wake up Mikey.”

Slowly Mikey shifted opening one of his eyes to look at Donnie who smiled at him.

“Hey there. Sleep well?”

Mikey nodded slowly moving so he could stretch. After a moment he spoke.

“Anything happen while I was asleep?”

Donnie shook his head.

“no. but it’s getting late and the business closed about 15 minutes ago. We should head back to the lair.”

Mikey nodded and watched as Donnie began packing up their gear. As Donnie pulled the backpack over his shell Mikey spoke.

“Hey Donnie…….thanks for taking Raph's spot. It was really nice to be paired with you for a change.”

Donnie smiled and nodded.

“I agree.”

The trip back to the lair was uneventful. Donnie could not help but notice how much Mikey’s mood seemed to have improved since their little talk. Reaching the lair they found that Raph and Leo were not back yet. Splinter greeted them as they set their stuff down in Donnie’s lab.

“Hello my sons. Your mission was a success I take it?”

Donnie nodded but Mikey spoke.

“yeah. We rocked it.”

splinter smiled.

“good. Your brothers will not be back for another half hour or so. What are your plans until then?”

Mikey grinned.

“Donnie wants me to teach him how to cook, so I figured we could start now. That way if we mess up there be enough time to fix it before Leo and Raph get home.”

Donnie could not help but raise an eyebrow at Mikey.

“You think I’m going to mess up?”

Mikey shrugged.

“I don't know Donnie. But I’ve messed up a few times. Better to be safe than sorry.”

Donnie nodded.

"I guess so.”

Moving into the kitchen Donnie smiled weakly as Mikey handed him an apron before putting his own on.

“TODAY…”

when Mikey spoke his voice was filled with dramatic enthusiasm,

“WE SHALL CREATe SPAGHETTI.”

Donnie felt his stomach flip. He’d tried making spaghetti before; the effect had been noodles that had become so soft they were mush, and sauce that had become solid because he’d burnt it so badly.

“Are…..are you sure that’s such a good idea Mikey? Couldn't we do something easier……..like cereal?”

but Mikey shook his head.

“No, no, no Donnie. Tonight we make spaghetti. Now before we begin take a deep breath.”

Doing as he was told Donnie filled his lungs with air until they ached before letting the air go.

“Now, we cook.”

Donnie watched as Mikey moved, pulling out pots, pans and the ingredients they would need. Pouring water into the pot Mikey handed the pot to Donnie before pointing to the stove.

“turn the burner onto 7 and let me know when it starts to boil.”

Nodding Donnie did as he was instructed. While water for the water to start boiling he turned, watching as Mikey began to make the sauce for the pasta. He watched as Mikey worked, mashing and grinding the tomatoes before adding spices, pepper, and many other ingredients before….

“How’s the water looking?”

Donnie’s eyes widened; he'd forgotten to keep an eye on the water! Turning back to the pot he swore under his breath as he found the water was not only boiling but boiling rather fiercely.

Reaching over the pot Donnie turned down the heat and watched as the water calmed slightly.

“sorry Mikey.”

Mikey shrugged and smiled.

“it’s just water Donnie. Don't worry, but pay attention for this next part ok?”

Donnie nodded and watched as Mikey poured in the pasta noodles and showed him how to stir them so they didn’t break. Continuing to stir the noodles Donnie again found his attention drawn to Mikey as he whirled around the kitchen adding this and that to sauce making the large pot bubble and stew slowly. It was amazing, like watching a completely different person work. Unlike in training Mikey now was focused, coordinated and seemed to move around the kitchen effortlessly. On the other hand Donnie felt his nerve wearing as the water began to boil a little too fast making him yelp as some of the hot water splashed up at him.

“Mikey…..Mikey it’s boiling to fast. What do I do?”

Mikey smiled and gently pushed him aside lifting the pot off the burner and moving it to another burn. Stirring the pasta Mikey made sure it was still ok before turning to Donnie who was shifting nervously from one leg to another.

“sorry…..I……the water just got to hot.”

Mikey shrugged. “It’s ok dude. It’s not like you burnt the sauce or anything. We’d be in a lot of trouble if that happened. Come here, let me show you what happened.”

Nodding Donnie moved in closer watching as Mikey again showed him how to stir the noodle properly.

“see you gotta scrape the sides to get any noodles that might stick.”

Donnie nodded and took the spoon from Mikey.

“ok….ok I think I got it.”

Mikey nodded and motioned for Donnie to put the pot back onto the burner. Donnie winced slightly as he moved the pot; the moment it came into contact with the burner the water began to quiver and bubble. Biting his lip he worked, doing exactly as Mikey had showed him, stirring the sides of the pot, before scooping under and making sure non noodles stuck to the bottom. It was odd, he could spar with Raph with only moderate anxiety and yet standing here stirring the pot was making him sweat in ways that combat never did. How did Mikey keep calm with everything go on around him? how did the youngest turtle not tremble and shake as he stirred the sauce which bubbled sluggishly in its pot? How did fix all this amazing food while making it look effortless while others struggled in the kitchen to fix even the most basic of food? How did- but Donnie’s attention was pulled from his thoughts as the lair door opened before closing with a loud bang.

“YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE BEEN SO RECKLESS RAPH!”

a moment later Raph responded with his own shout.

“AND YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE BEEN SUCH A WHUSS LEO!”

Donnie rolled his eyes as the two older brothers came into sight.

As Donnie continued to stir the noodles he could not help but notice that Raph and Leo both sported several bruised against their green skin. Leo spoke to them first, smiling weakly at them as he sat down at one of the barstools.

“Smells good Mikey. Spaghetti?”

Mikey nodded before moving behind Donnie and squeezing his shoulders.

“And Donnie’s helping?” Donnie raised an eye-ridge at Raph's tone.

“What I can't help?”

Raph smirked at him.

“Last time you tried to make spaghetti you burnt a hole through the pan.”

Donnie grumbled at this memory. Behind him Mikey spoke.

“Donnie’s been really helpful. Because of him the sauce is gunna taste amazing. You’ll see….speaking of which I think we’re about done.”

Raph rolled his eyes but sat down at the table as Mikey moved over and checked the pasta before smiling at Donnie.

“Good job Don, the pasta looks perfect. See cooking isn’t so bad.”

Donnie smiled weakly, something about how close he was to Mikey was making his heart flutter.

“I….Um……I….”

from his spot at the table Raph spoke.

“come on Donnie, get out of the way so we can eat.”

Donnie glared at Raph for a moment before stepping aside to another cupboard before pulling down plates and cups for them to use. 10 minutes later they were all enjoying the food.

As he ate Donnie couldn't help but watch Mikey. The younger turtle seeing his stars cocked his head to the side.

“what is it Donnie? Do I have sauce on my face?”

Donnie felt his face heat up slightly as he shook his head. Focusing on his food he found his attention pulled away from Mikey and down to the spaghetti which was amazing as always. 10 minutes later Mikey stood up, moving to gather up the plates. As Mikey moved to pick up Donnie’s plate Donnie spoke.

“how about I help Mikey?”

Mikey looked slightly confused but shrugged and allowed Donnie to grab his own plate and the cups from everyone spot; while everyone else moved off and went to do their own things. Donnie watched as Mikey put the plates in the sink before turning back to the leftover food.

“Donnie could you-”

but Mikey was cut off by Raph who had returned to the kitchen.

“Hey Donnie. I need some help with something.”  

A moment later Donnie grunted as Raph began tugging on his arm trying to pull him out of the kitchen. Doing his best to hold his ground Donnie spoke.

“I’m….helping Mikey Raph. I’ll be with you in a moment.”

Raph rolled his eyes.

“He’ll be fine without you. He does dishes all the time. Come on….”

Again raph tried to pull hm from the kitchen and again Donnie resisted.

“I said no Raph…..”

Raph rolled his eyes again and continued to try and pull Donnie from the kitchen. Glancing sideways Donnie caught sight of Mikey, the younger turtle’s shoulders had slumped slightly as he looked nervously from Donnie to Raph a faint trace of fear in his face.

Something in Donnie changed. Something in his chest broke, making his muscles tingle and itch and he moved. He stepped forward throwing Raph off balance before lashing out with his hands, shoving Raph roughly away.

“I SAID NO RAPH! I’M HELPING MIKEY!”

he watched as Raph staggered backwards his shell hitting the counter; as he stared at Donnie for a moment before rolling his eyes and storming away. “Whatever.”

Turning back to Mikey Donnie smiled weakly.

“So……how can I help?”

he watched as Mikey looked at him for a moment before looking back to the plates.

“You…..you could set the plates to soak while I put the leftovers away.”

Donnie nodded, setting the dishes they had used in the sink before turning to Mikey as he bent over, putting the leftover food in the fridge. For a moment his eyes widened as his eyes fell on Mikey’s slim form; his narrow hips, slender legs, smooth skin. Shaking his head slightly he forced himself to look away as Mikey straightened up and turned to him.

“so…….what would you like to do now?”

Donnie shrugged, his eyes flickering towards the living room.

“we….could watch some TV.”

Mikey nodded and followed Donnie out of the kitchen and into the living room. Dropping down into his spot on the couch Mikey expected Donnie to go sit in the corner of the couch like he normally did; so when Donnie dropped down right next to him he was pleasantly surprised. They flipped through the channels until they found something interesting; an old episode of Space Heroes. As they watched the old cartoon Mikey yawned, stretching as he did so. He groaned, feeling his back and arms pop slightly, before settling back down. He was having trouble focusing now. His mind kept drifting off into nothingness as he yawned again. he leaned back, closing his eyes for just a moment.

DONNIE’S POV

Donnie looked sideways as he felt Mikey shift. The orange turtle had fallen asleep, his head gently resting on Donnie’s shoulder, while he let out a gentle snore. Smiling to himself Donnie slowly moved, turning off the TV before looking back down at his sleeping brother. Mikey’s face was relaxed, a small smile covering his lips, his eyes shifting under his eyelids every now and then; a sign that he was dreaming. Glancing back at the clock that hung on the wall Donnie smiled as he found it was almost 10:30pm. He moved, slowly shifting so he could pick Mikey up without waking the sleeping turtle. Hoisting Mikey’s body into the bridal position Donnie bit his lip as he felt Mikey move, gently burying his face against Donnie’s chest. Donnie smiled as Mikey let out a gentle moan before drifting back to sleep. He moved slowly, so as not to wake Mikey up; carefully carrying the sleeping orange turtle to their room. He paused as he stepped through the doorway. Yes it was true Mikey may have been sleeping soundly now; but it was possible that could change and he would have another nightmare. Donnie’s grip on Mikey’s body tightened slightly as he changed course, heading towards his own bed and not Mikey’s. Lying the sleeping turtle down, Donnie grunted slightly as he felt one of Mikey’s hands wrap around his wrist. It wasn't a firm grip and Donnie could tell Mikey was still asleep; but somehow the gesture had an effect on him. Refusing to break the contact Donnie pushed Mikey over slightly before crawling into bed next to him.

Almost at once Mikey shifted unconsciously shifting towards Donnie, who smiled as he pulled the covers of the bed over their bodies. Mikey moaned as the blankets touched his skin. Donnie bit his lip, something about how Mikey looked was almost hypnotic to him. The youngest turtle’s mouth was slightly open, his chest slowly rising and falling, while he continued to hold onto Donnie’s wrist. He wasn't sure what made him do it, the thought had never before crossed him mind; but right then In that exact moment he was struck by just how cute Mikey look. He leaned in gently ghosting his lips over Mikey's in a soft gentle kiss.

REALITY

Donnie smiled sheepishly at Mikey who grinned at him.

“So you did kiss me that night.”

Donnie nodded slowly, his face a slight shade of red as Mikey leaned in to nuzzle his neck for a moment before giving Donnie a quick kiss on the cheek. Smiling Donnie finished speaking,

“and……and that’s the first time I saw you as more than a brother.”

Mikey giggled and continued to nuzzle his neck for a moment. It had been almost a year since that day. For over a month afterwards Donnie had struggled with the new feelings that seemed to bubble in his chest and stomach every time he saw Mikey. Those same feelings making him nervous and clumsy around the orange turtle; until finally Mikey confronted him, asking him if he was feeling ok. Donnie smiled to himself as he remembered how nervous he’d been, feeling as though he might pass out as he’d grabbed Mikey’s shoulders and kissed him. He’d half expected Mikey shove him away, to call him a freak and never speak to him again. Instead Mikey had kissed him back, wrapping his arms around Donnie’s neck while leaning into the kiss. Since then things hadn’t changed much. They’d told Leo and Raph, the two older turtles had been………unsure of what to say, but it didn’t matter to Mikey or Donnie; they loved each other and nothing anyone said would change that. They’d held off on telling splinter; their brothers were one thing, but telling their father……that was something else entirely. Yet as odd as it seemed the old rat acted as if he already knew. Every time he’d send them on a mission he’d put Donnie and Mikey on the same team. Or whenever he sent Donnie on an errand he’d comment about how he was sure Mikey would love to tag along.

Again Mikey shifted nuzzling his mate’s neck.

“so…….how did Raph and Leo end up together?”

Donnie giggled at the question.

“well……that all started when Leo punched Raph in the face……..”