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Chapter Text

Leo's 17

Don's 16

Mikey's 16

Raphael's 15

The brothers were on the way home from patrol on a bitterly cold and rainy February evening, when Raphael's phone shrilled.

"Yeah?" Raphael said. "Fine. I'll be there now. Try to chill, okay? I said I'm coming. What part of coming don't you get? Stupid bitch." His brothers quirked their eyeridges. "What? She is a dumb bitch."
"You didn't think so when you got into her panties," Leo said. "You bragged about it for days, Raph."
"That was until I found out she'd been with everyone in her fucking class, including her teacher. There's a fucking good chance I'm not the brat's baby daddy. I hope so. I'm too young to be a dad. I can't do it, Leo. I just wanna be a teenager, fight crime and hang with you guys. I'm not ready for diapers and that shit."
"You'll be fine."
"I won't. I know my limitations. Kids are one of them."
"The call?"
"That was Brandi. Said her water broke and that she was going into labor. Probably another false alarm. When the fuck can she leave the lair, Leo? I'm fucking sick of her. She eats all our food and picks fights all the fucking time. What did I ever see in her?"

"We need to go home now, Raph," Don said. "You can bitch about Brandi later."
"Count me out. I'm not going home."
"It could be YOUR baby. You'll be there, whether you like it or not."
"Whatever," Raphael grumbled. "But I bet it's not mine. She's a fucking slut."

The brothers headed home.

XXXX

The brothers arrived home a while later and found Splinter attending to Brandi in the infirmary.

"Raphael," Splinter said. "You need to hold her hand and to be with her."
"I'm not touching her. No way." Raphael said as he folded his arms. "It's bad enough I have to be here."

"I'll do it," Leo said as he sat down by the bed and then grabbed Brandi's hand. "How are you feeling, Brandi?"
"How the fuck do you think I feel, Leo?" the busty blue eyed blonde retorted. "It fucking hurts. I want this to be over soon, so I can leave. I hate being stuck here with you reptiles. I want my old life back."

"So do we," Raphael hissed. "You've been nothing but trouble and none of us likes you, right, Leo?"
"Raphael," Splinter said sternly. "Brandi does not need this now. Wait outside if you cannot be respectful."
"Gladly, Dad. I never wanted to be part of this anyway," Raphael snapped and stomped outside.

"Do you need my help, guys?" Mikey asked.

Don, Leo and Splinter shook their heads.

Splinter said, "Go and be with Raphael, Michelangelo. I will call you when the child comes."

Don studied Brandi and said, "You need to push, Brandi. The baby will be here soon. Dad, dab her face with that cloth. Good. Brandi, I need you to start pushing. Leo, keep holding her hand. Do you want me to call Raph?"
"Argh! No!" Brandi yelled. "I don't want that asshole around me."
"Push!"

Brandi pushed and Don finally saw the head two hours later.

"The baby's nearly out," Don said. "Dad, get Raph. He needs to be here."
"I will, my son," Splinter said and left the room.

"One final push, Brandi. You're doing great," Leo said. "Just one more."
"I'm tired, Leo," Brandi said wearily.
"I know, but just one more and the baby will be out. Come on. You can do it, honey."
"You're so much nicer than your brother, Leo. I wish we'd fucked instead. Gah!" Brandi said as she gave a final push.

Don lifted out a screaming kelly green skinned baby.

Raphael entered the room with Mikey and Splinter and said as he looked at the wailing baby Don held, "What the fuck? Is that what I think it is?"
"I told you it was yours, you bastard," Brandi snapped. Exhaustion was etched on her face. "Look. It has your skin color, a shell and green eyes. Your kid. What gender is it?"
"Fuck if I know. Don?"

"Boy," Don said softly. "You two have a beautiful baby boy. Congrats, Raph and Brandi."
"Correction," Brandi said as she finally let go of Leo's hand. "Raphael has a son. I don't have a kid and I'm out of here as soon as I'm better."

"There's no way you're sticking me with that, bitch," Raphael snarled. "I'm fifteen and too young to be a parent."
"I'm sixteen and I have my life to lead," Brandi snapped. "The baby's a freak and belongs with you and your freak brothers."

The baby cried.

Don said, "Raph, your son needs you."
"No. I'm outta here. I'm not cut out for this," Raphael yelled and stormed out of the room and lair.

Splinter sighed and said, "Brandi, you are the baby's mother. He needs you."
"Old man, I don't want to be a part of its life. It's a freak, an abomination and I want no part of it. I'm going home and I don't want to know it or to be reminded of the huge mistake I made with Raphael. My decision's final."

"But he's just a baby, Brandi," Don said as he looked at the whimpering infant who stared up at him with huge green eyes. "An innocent, sweet, baby."
"It's an it. I'll be gone in the morning. End of discussion. I want to sleep. Take it away. If you're worried about me revealing where you live, there's no need to be. I'm too embarrassed that I slept with a grotesque mutant Turtle. I'd like to forget it happened. I won't tell anyone about you guys or that baby."

The family left the infirmary with the still squawking baby.

"What do we do now, Dad?" Don asked.
"Care for the baby until Raphael returns," Splinter said. "Perhaps he will change his mind. I would like to hold my grandson."

Splinter held his grandson and cooed and fussed over him. Then he said, "I am going to bed. Do you need my help with changing the baby before I go, my sons?"
"No, Dad. I can do it," Don said. "Give me the baby. I'll feed him." Splinter handed him the baby and said, "Good night, my sons."

"Good night, Dad," the three brothers said in unison and then they went to the kitchen.

XXXX

"He's so cute, Don," Leo said as he tested the baby's grip. "Mikey and I'd kill to have a baby, but we can't. How can his parents be so cold to him?"
"Leo, they were horny teenagers who didn't think about the consequences of unprotected sex and now they can't deal with the result. It happens a lot."
"Can I hold him?"
"Sure."
Don handed the infant to Leo, who smiled down at him and said, "I'm your Uncle Leo. You're adorable and precious, you know that?" Leo stroked the baby's cheek. He cooed and gazed at his uncle. "I'm sorry about your parents, but I promise your uncles will do everything they can to ensure you're happy and well looked after. You need a name, don't you?"

Heavy footsteps entered the kitchen and Raphael said in his gruff voice, "His name's Leonardo and he's yours if you want him, Leo. I decided that when I was out. I wanted some breathing space. Brandi doesn't want him and neither do I."
"But he's yours, Raph."
"He's mine biologically. I'm not ready to be a dad and I'd fuck him up. You and Mikey would be good parents. I want you to have him, to raise him and to teach him. I'll be his Uncle Raph. You can explain the truth to him someday. I want you to have him. I can't think of two better people than you and Mikey. Please take him."
"Raph, it's a huge decision. What if you change your mind?"
"I won't. He's yours."

"Are you really sure, Raph?" Mikey asked as his heart hammered. He'd wanted a kid for so long.
"Damn sure. Name him Leonardo, okay? I can't think of a better name for him than that of the brother I most admire."
"He'll have your name as his middle name."
"Fine, but take him. I'm going to bed. Goodnight, Dads."
Mikey stood and flung his arms around Raphael's waist. "Thank you, Raphie. Thank you so much."
"You're welcome. I suggest you get some sleep while you can," Raphael said and left the room.

"Congratulations, guys," Don said and smiled. "You're parents. How does it feel, Leo and Mikey?"
"So surreal," Leo said. "I can't believe we have a son. Mikey, hold him."

Mikey held the gurgling baby and his heart overflowed with love.

"He's so perfect, Leo," Mikey said. "I can't believe this. We're parents. What if we mess up?"
"Nonsense. We'll be awesome parents, Mikey. The best."
"I'll teach him to cook, skateboard and…"
"I'll teach him ninjutsu, meditation, calligraphy and... Donnie, you can teach him all about science."

"I'd love to," Don said. "The kid will be a tech wizard like me. It's late. You guys should put the baby to bed. I'll move the crib Leo built into your room."

XXXX

Baby Leonardo was settled in his crib in Leo and Mikey's room. The new parents kissed him, turned on the mobile of horses and proudly watched him.

"I hope he doesn't have Raph's temper, Leo," Mikey said.
"We'll love him, even if he does. I already love him so much my heart feels like it's gonna burst."
"Me too. Hey, Leo, we need to celebrate."
"We do. Got ideas how we can?"
"A few," Mikey husked and dragged his mate to their bed.

Mikey ordered Leo to lie down. Then he licked and nipped Leo's collarbone, which made him groan in anticipation.

"You like that, Daddy?" Mikey asked and trailed kisses down Leo's plastron towards his slit.
"Yes. Don't Stop."
"Not intending to," Mikey said as he stroked Leo's slit until he dropped down. A deep churr roared from his chest.

Mikey grinned and rubbed Leo's semi-erect cock until it stood proud and erect. He kissed it and rubbed his own slit until his cock popped free of its pouch.

"I'm gonna show you how much I love you, Leo," Mikey whispered. "Are you ready?"
"Screw me already, Mikey, you huge tease!"

Mikey chuckled, stuck two fingers into Leo's entrance until he was sure he was ready. Then he lined his cock up with Leo's entrance and slowly slid it inside him, which caused him to gasp.

"I love how tight you are, Leo," Mikey said. "No matter how many times we have sex, you're still so tight! You drive me wild, Leo!"
"Fuck me!"

Mikey thrust in and out of Leo and built up to a steady pace that had them seeing stars, churring and climaxing a few minutes later. The prankster came first and shot his seed deep into Leo. Leo's essence splattered the bedsheets when he came soon after.

Spent, the lovers flopped down and turned to look at each other.

"How was that, Leo?" Mikey asked.
"As sensational as always, Mikey. I love you so much," Leo said and kissed his lips.
"I love you too. Sheesh. You were loud. Good thing the baby didn't wake up."
"He will in a few hours, so we should get some sleep."
"Hey, Leo, do you think Raph will change his mind?"
"No. We're parents now and that won't change. Get some sleep. The baby will want changing and feeding in a few hours."
"Can I do it first if you don't mind?"
"Yes. Mikey, there really is nothing to worry about. We're parents now and nothing will change that. Raph's content to be Uncle Raph. He said so."

The mates kissed each other good night and fell fast asleep. They were overjoyed that their dream of being parents had come true.

Chapter Text

FLASHBACK 8 MONTHS EARLIER. JUNE 22

“I’m off to the costume party, Leo,” Raphael told his mate. He sighed when Leo said nothing and said, "I’m sorry for being a dick. How many times do I have to tell you I’m sorry?”
“I told you that I accepted your apology.”
“You said you accepted it, but you haven't shown you have. You still look pissed.”
“Do you think we’re in a rut?”
“Why would you say that?”
“I don’t know. Things don’t seem as passionate as they used to be and we never spend much time with each other anymore. You’re always working out and…”
“So, you feel neglected, huh?”
“Kind of.”
“Leo, our relationship’s fine. I love you so much. I’ll show you how much when I get home,” Raphael said and kissed his lips. “Come with me.”
“I hate parties and you’d better not drink any booze. Promise me.”
“I promise.”
“What if there’s a really hot girl there?”
“You're jealous, huh?” Raphael said and smirked. “You think I’m gonna cheat? I like guys and girls, but the only person I want is you, Leo. Nothing will change that. I won't cheat, so stop worrying.”
Leo visibly relaxed and said, “Okay, Raphie. How do you think the guys will take it when we tell them about us?”
“I don’t know, but I do know that the two years we've been together have been the best years of my life. I couldn’t live without you and I look forward to growing old with you.”
“Me too.”
“Leo, we’ll deal with it together, whatever happens and we won’t let anyone separate us.”
“We won’t. I love you. Go have fun.”
“I love you too,” Raphael said and kissed him deeply. “I’ll miss you.”
“Ditto.”

XXXX

Half an hour later, Raphael met Casey at his apartment. Then they left for the party.

"Who'll be at the party, Casey?” Raphael asked.
“Some people I know, including my cousin, Brandi. She’s a real fox. Blonde, busty, blue eyed. All the guys love her. You will too.”
“Will there be booze? Leo doesn't want me drinking.”
“One drink won’t hurt. Leo doesn’t have to know, does he? Let your hair down. Hahaha. I mean, relax and have fun, Raph. It’s me, you, some friends and there’ll be hot chicks.”
“What about April? Aren't you with her?”
“It’s casual sex. We hook up when we want to, but we see other people. Best kind of arrangement. Maybe you’ll meet a cool girl.”
“I'm not looking to meet anyone!"
"You should, otherwise you’ll die a virgin.”
“Listen, Case, I’m kinda with…"
“We’re here,” Casey said and rang the doorbell.

A blonde, blue eyed and voluptuous girl, who wore a red skintight mini dress and matching heels opened the door.

“Casey!” the girl exclaimed. “It's good to see you, cousin.”
“Hey, Brands.”

Wow, Raphael thought. She's stunning. Fuck it. The kinda girl I’d date. I shouldn’t think about her. I have Leo. I love him deeply and we’re gonna have a bonding ceremony as soon as we’ve told the family about us.

“Who do we have here?” Brandi asked as she gazed at Raphael, who flushed.
“I’m Raphael-Raph. Nice to meet you.”
“Love the costume. It looks so real.”
“Yeah. I’ve kinda grown attached to it and wear it all the time.”
“Hahaha. What a kidder. Where’ve you been all my life, handsome? Please come inside.”

XXXX

Brandi showed them into the living room, where many people were gathered and said, “Help yourself to whatever you want, guys.”

The music blared.

Techno, Raphael thought. Figures. I hate it. I should go home. I don’t belong here.

“You’re not dressing up, cuz?” Casey asked.
“Nah,” Brandi said and shrugged. “Didn’t feel like it. Please drink with me,” she added as she poured champagne into two flutes and then handed them to Casey and Raphael.

“I'm not allowed to have alcohol, Brandi,” Raphael said quickly. “I promised my brother.”
“Promises are made to be broken and one glass won’t hurt. Go on.”

“She’s right, Raph,” Casey said. “Go on. Just one. Leo will never know.”
“Fine,” Raphael said and took a long sip. “This is good, Brandi.”

“Should be,” Brandi said. “It’s expensive. My dad only buys the best. Hey, Raphael, what do you think of my house?”
“It’s nice,” Raphael said and sipped his drink. "Beats where I live."
“Where do you stay?”
“Manhattan. It's down-market.”
“How old are you?”
“Just turned fourteen. You?”
“Fifteen. Where do you go to school?”
“I’m home schooled.”

“Oh, hey, babe,” Casey said, spying a girl he knew. “Let’s go talk someplace quiet.”
“You’re on!” the girl said as she grabbed his hand and then lead him away.

“Are those muscles real, Raph?” Brandi asked as she touched his biceps.
“Yeah. I work out a lot. Leo, that’s my…”
“Are you straight or gay? I know you’ve been checking me out, but I want to know. I’m both, but prefer guys.”
“I haven't been checking you out.”
“All guys do. It’s okay. You can admit you have. I won’t be cross.”
“I should go home,” Raphael said, feeling uncomfortable. “My lover’s waiting for me. We’re madly in love and are having a bonding ceremony soon.”
“Bonding ceremony. What? Are you an animal or something?”
“I’m…”
“Please don’t go, Raphael. You’re the most interesting person here and my cousin’s occupied. Please. It’s my birthday. You’d hate to disappoint me on my birthday by leaving so early, wouldn’t you?”
“I promised Leo I’d be home by ten and it’s nearly ten.”
“Is Leo your babysitter or something?”
“My mate.”
“interesting. Why don’t you say boyfriend?”
“It’s a human… Never…”
“Have two more drinks, please. Then you can go home. Pretty please,” Brandi begged and pouted.
“Fine. I’ll tell Leo I’ll be home by eleven. Brandi, you have to know that you and I aren't gonna happen. I’m with Leo and I love him.”

Raphael sent Leo a text saying he’d be home by eleven. Then he and Brandi sat on the couch and talked. She kept him plied with drinks, but only sipped one all evening. The turtle didn’t notice and as the alcohol took effect, his tongue loosened and he told her things he’d never told anyone else: who his family were, that his dad was a rat, he lived in the sewers, his romance with Leo, his biggest dream, et cetera. Brandi listened and kept plying him with drinks.

An intoxicated Raphael said at eleven thirty, "I don’t feel so hot. I need to lie down, Brandi.”
“You can rest in my room, Raphael,” Brandi said as she helped him to his feet and then led him upstairs to her room.

XXXX

Ensconced in her room, Brandi quickly stripped Raphael of his gear and dumped it on the floor. Then she helped him into bed.

"What are you doing, Brandi?” Raphael asked.
“Making you more comfortable, Raphael,” she said and kissed his plastron. “Do you like that, turtle boy? I think that’s what you are with talk of bonding and mates, right?”
“Yeah. Look…”
“Sh, baby. You’re going to be fine. Where’s your cock. In a pouch, right? Drop down for me, Raphael.”
“Leo…”
“Isn’t here. I want you." Brandi kissed him deeply and stroked between his legs. “I want to fuck you so bad, Raphael. I wanted to from the moment we met.”

Letting out a loud churr, an inebriated Raphael dropped down and his 10-inch and semi-erect purple cock leaked precum.

“Here we are,” Brandi purred. “It’s ugly, but it’ll do. I’m horny and you’re the only one at the party I haven’t banged. Guess what? It's your lucky day. You get me.”

Brandi rubbed his cock until it was erect. Then she lowered herself onto it, rocked and arched her back so that his cock went in deeper.

Raphael churred loudly and his eyes closed in sheer bliss.

XXXX

Meanwhile, when Raphael hadn't returned home, a worried Leo had left a note to the others saying he was going out and that he'd be home later. He climbed into the van, punched in the coordinates of Raphael’s cell phone, got the location of where it was and said, “I hope you aren't in trouble, Raph!”

Leo started the engine and drove to Brandi’s house.

XXXX

Leo arrived at Brandi's house, tried the front door, found it was unlocked and went inside. Loud music assaulted his ear slits and he grimaced.

"You’re a cutie pie,” a brunette girl in a skimpy silver mini dress and matching heels said. “I’m Larissa.”
“Seen a red-masked guy in a turtle costume?”
“Maybe. Why don’t we play and…?”
“Look, girly, have you seen him or not?” Leo demanded, his cobalt blue eyes flinty.
“You don’t have to be rude.”
“I’m not. I’m just looking for my kid brother. Have you seen him?”
“If I answer, then can we play?”
“Fine.”
“I saw him go into Brandi’s room. It's second on the left upstairs. They’re probably fucking. She fucks everything. Can we play now?”

Leo sprinted up the stars, barged open Brandi’s door and his jaw dropped. There was HIS precious Raphael being straddled by a girl.

“Fucking hell. Haven’t you heard of knocking?” Brandi snapped as she turned her head and then glared at Leo. “There are doors for a reason, you know. Privacy. You must be Leo. He spoke about you. Said you sucked in bed and he wanted to move on. He has.”

Raphael had fallen into a drunken stupor, so he was oblivious to what was occurring.

Feeling like his world had crumbled and like his heart had shattered into a million pieces, a tearful Leo ran out of the room and house. I trusted him and he cheated, Leo thought as he clenched his fists. NEVER again. Raph and I are done forever and he can fuck himself.

Chapter Text

The next morning, June 23, Raphael woke with a throbbing headache.

Raphael muttered as he pressed a hand to his temples, “Where the hell am I? This isn't my room. Leo?”
“Good. It's six and you’re finally awake,” Brandi said coldly. “Get out.”
Raphael stared at the buxom blonde who only wore a black bra and matching underwear and said, “Why am I in your bed? Nothing happened, did it? Shit. I hope not.”
“We happened and your precious Leo saw everything,” Brandi said and smirked. “I guess you have explaining to do. Get dressed and leave.”
Raphael paled and said, "You're joking, right? I wouldn’t cheat on Leo.”
“We fucked. It was terrible and your cock was hideous, but oh well. I suppose I’ll get better somewhere else. Get out, freak,” Brandi said furiously and threw Raphael’s gear and belt at him. “Leave by the window, reptile. I don’t want my parents to see. Got it?”

Raphael, whose heart shattered into a million pieces at the news he'd been with Brandi, quickly dressed and left via the window. I feel sick and so dirty, he thought. Leo saw us fucking and thinks I cheated. I must have drunk too much, because I wouldn’t have cheated on Leo. Fuck. I gotta explain to him. He’s probably furious.

XXXX

Raphael arrived home sometime later and was met by a disgruntled Splinter.

“Where have you been, Raphael?” the aged rat demanded. “You went to a party and had a curfew of ten!”
"Dad, please can we discuss this later? I want to shower!”
“No. We will not!” Splinter snapped and banged his cane on the ground. “You had a curfew and you broke it.”
“I asked Leo to be home by eleven and he said okay.”
"Leonardo is NOT your father, Raphael. I am. Bend over.”
“Dad, no. I’m sorry. Please don't.”
“Bend over, Raphael. I will not ask again. Why do you smell of sex and alcohol? Have you been indulging?”
“Dad, I…”
“Have you? Answer me.”
“Look, Dad, I had…”
“So, you have. Bend over now and let it be a lesson to not disobey me again.”

Raphael bent over and his dad hit him four times on his butt with the cane. The hothead took it stoically.

"Who did you have sex with, Raphael?” Splinter asked.
"A girl, Dad. It won't happen again. She got me drunk and I woke up in her bed.”
“You are a disgrace to yourself and our clan, Raphael. There will be no topside for you for four months. You will also do your brothers’ chores and have extra meditation with me.”
“It wasn’t my fault. She gave me drinks and seduced me, Dad.”
“You should not have drunk in the first place, Raphael,” Splinter hissed. “I am deeply disappointed in you. Shower and then go to your room until I summon you. No TV, video games or phone priviledges either."
"It wasn’t my fucking fault, Dad!” Raphael said, his eyes blazing. “She…”
“Six months no topside for swearing. Want to make that a year, Raphael?”

The teenager stomped to the bathroom.

XXXX

Raphael undressed in the bathroom, turned on the faucet and waited for the hot water to soothe him and to cleanse away the dirty feeling he had, but all he got was a torrent of cold water that made him wrinkle his snout in disgust. Fucking no hot water! Figures and my butt hurts, he thought as he rubbed it and grimaced grimacing in pain. I’m scared Leo’s gonna dump me. I can’t live without him. He’s my everything and my heart. I know that sounds fucking sappy, but it’s true. Leo’s my world. How am I supposed to go on if he dumps me? You may as well bury me, because my life will be fucking meaningless like it was before we got together.

Raphael washed himself with the cold water, dressed and left the bathroom.

XXXX

Raphael was on the way to his room, when he saw Leo engaged in a conversation with Mikey in the living room. The brothers were sitting on the couch, laughing and Mikey had his arm around Leo’s shoulders. Mikey was too close for the jealous Raphael’s liking. He hated anyone near his mate, especially Mikey, because he knew Mikey had a major crush on Leo.

Raphael crossed his arms. “Morning. Super cozy here, aren't we, Leo?” he asked as he gazed at Leo.
The cobalt blue eyed turtle pulled away from Mikey, stared back and said calmly, “Mikey told me a joke.”
“Wanna tell me it? You know I hate being left out.”
"I don’t think so. Are we still on for later, Mikey?”

“Of course. I'm looking forward to it, bro,” Mikey said and stood. “Hey, Raph, do you want to spar?”
“No.”
“You didn’t have to be so rude about it, dude. You could say maybe later.”
“Go away, Mikey!”
“What’s your problem, Raph?” Mikey asked, hurt etched on his face. “You’re always mean to me. Why? We used to be close.”
“YOU'RE MY PROBLEM! You're always trying to muscle in on Leo. You think I don’t notice?” Raphael snarled and bared his teeth.
“You’re wrong, Raph. I was... Why do you care what I do with Leo? You’re not mates. He’s single, available and I’d be good for him.”

“KNOCK IT OFF!” Leo roared. “Raphael, come with me. We need to address your curfew.”

The lovers headed to Leo's bedroom.

XXXX

Leo and Raphael entered Leo's bedroom and the leader shut the door.

"Right," Leo said, his lips set in a thin line and his arms crossed. “You deliberately disobeyed the no drinking rule, Raphael.”
“I had one drink and that bitch…”
“We’ll get to it later. I told you no drinking, but you went ahead with it, which shows you have no regard for me or this clan.”
“BS, Leo, I love you. Whatever happened last night was because of the drink. I swear to hell. What you saw was the alcohol. I didn’t want her and I told her I was with you. Leo…”
“That doesn’t matter. You cheated, Raphael. I can’t be with you. We’re over.”
“Leo, you don’t mean that. Say you don’t,” Raphael said in a broken voice as his heart shattered and he slumped his shoulders. “Take those words back.”
“I do, because who’s to say you won’t cheat again,” Leo said firmly. “We should never have hooked up. It was a huge mistake. We’ll keep things between us and go back to being just brothers. It’s the best…”
“I CAN’T GO BACK TO BEING JUST YOUR BRO, LEO! I LOVE YOU!” Raphael yelled as he dropped to his knees and looked at Leo beseechingly. “I love you so much. Please.”
“I don’t want anyone to hear. Shut the fuck up.”
“I need you, Leo,” Raphael said as he got up, cupped Leo's face and then tried to kiss him.
“No,” Leo said resolutely and shook his head. He turned away and added, "We’re done. Move your stuff to your room.”
“Are you and Mikey fucking?” Raphael demanded jealously. He gnashed his teeth and glared at his older brother. “I wanna know. You'd be a hypocrite saying I cheated and you did. We both know he’s got the fucking hots for you.”
“No. I can control my urges, unlike you and I have respect for myself and others.”
“I didn’t willingly cheat. You gotta believe me. It’s only ever been you."
“I know what I saw. That girl straddling you. You know how that felt? My whole world crumbled,” Leo said as he closed his eyes and placed a hand over his heart. Pain and sadness were etched on his face.
“I didn’t…”
“I don’t believe you, Raphael. Get out.”
"Mikey will NEVER satisfy you like I do. I’ll do whatever it takes for you to see how wrong you are that I willingly cheated on you. I love you, Leo. I always will,” Raphael vowed as he gazed at Leo, who studied the ground. “You can deny it to yourself all you like, but we both know we belong together. We always have.”
"Out.”

Raphael grabbed his things that he stored in Leo’s room, looked despondently at Leo, who was still studying the floor and headed to his room.

XXXX

Raphael punched his punching bag in his room until his knuckles were sore and bloody and thought about Leo and how happy they’d been. He picked up his journal off the dresser, sat down on the bed and winced. My fucking ass still hurts. I fucking didn’t deserve that beating, he thought and began to write. “Leo and I broke up. Can you believe it? I sure can’t. He thinks I cheated. I didn’t willingly. Fuck. I love him so much. My chest hurts and I feel like I can’t breathe.” Raphael placed a hand over his heart and hot tears fell onto the diary and smudged the ink. Leo’s the best thing that ever happened to me, he thought. I gotta win him back. We belong together. Maybe trying to make him jealous will work and he’ll take me back. It's worth a try.”

XXXX

Leo swapped his usual seat next to Raphael at dinner that evening and sat next to Mikey.

Don raised an eyeridge, but assumed it was because Leo and Raphael had fought.

Raphael shifted in his seat. His butt still hurt.

“What is wrong, Raphael?” Splinter asked.
“Nothing. Can I be excused?”
“Not until you have finished your dinner. My son, I sense tension between you and Leonardo.”
“You're wrong, Sensei. Leo and I are just peachy, aren't we, Leo?”
"I think differently. You must resolve it if there is tension, my sons. You are brothers and you need each other. I suggest you and Leonardo take a week-long retreat away to reconnect."

“But, Sensei,” Leo said. “It’s not necessary. Raph and I are fine. I’m just bummed about the curfew. He begged for eleven p.m. and he never came home until morning.”
“Yes, Leonardo, but my curfew was ten p.m. You had no right to change it.”
“Sorry, Sensei.”
"I will retire to my room to write to the Ancient One if you boys are fine. Goodnight, my sons.”

“Goodnight, Sensei,” the brothers said in unison and watched Splinter leave the room.

“I heard you had sex last night, Raph,” Mikey said. “How was it?”
“It was with a hot blonde girl.”
“You bagged a human? Way cool!”
"Yeah. She was so hot. Did I say hot?” Raphael was immature and thought bragging about the blonde would make Leo take him back, because he’d be jealous. “I can get you her number, Mikey, if you want.”
"No, thanks. Girls aren’t my thing. Besides, I don’t take someone else’s leftovers. I can get my own partner. Leo, are we still heading out?”

Leo had been silent and had ignored his ex-mate's cruel comments.

Raph probably thinks he’s making me jealous, Leo thought disgustedly. He’s not and is only making me more adamant that breaking up was the best thing to do. He knows how much it hurt me and he’s still going on about it. What a cruel bastard.

Leo cleared his throat and said, “Mikey and I are going on patrol tonight. Raphael, you can help Donnie with the dishes and then you can do the laundry.”
“I'm not a maid. Do it your fucking self!” Raphael yelled as he banged his fist hard on the table.
“Dad said so…”
“All right, Splinter Junior. Fucking chill.”

“Don’t call him that, Raph,” Mikey said crossly. “Leo’s…”
“I’ll call him whatever the hell I like, Mikey. If you don’t like it, you can fuck off," Raphael shouted. “You can all fuck off. Mikey, why don’t we tell our brothers that you've been trying on makeup. Do we have to give you a female name?”
"It’s not true. You’re lying, Raph. I wouldn’t do that.”

“SHUT UP, RAPHAEL!” Leo roared. “It’s not a big deal if Mikey used makeup.”
“It is. It means he’s a girly boy and something to laugh at. You wouldn’t catch me doing that. We'll see him in dresses next.”

Tired of Raphael’s jibes, Mikey sprang to his feet, ran to his room and threw himself on the bed. Tears rained down his face and he clutched his teddy plush toy he liked to hold when he was upset.

Leo stood, glared at his ex-mate and went to Mikey’s room.

“You’re a jerk, Raphael,” Don hissed and stood. “Tell me when my nice brother's back. Stay the hell away from me until then."

What, Raphael thought? Mikey was interfering in our argument. He deserved what I said. Little creep's always interfering in Leo and my business. I'm not sorry.

XXXX

Leo tried unsuccessfully to talk to Mikey for over an hour. Sighing and admitting defeat for the night, he was about to head to bed, when he bumped into Raphael, who was on his way to the bathroom.

“So, you are fucking him, Leo?” Raphael demanded, his eyes flinty and hands on his hips. “How could you, you fucking hypocrite?”
“Out of my face, Raphael!” Leo yelled, shoving his brother aside and looking at him with disgust.
Raphael approached Leo and said as he placed his hands on Leo’s shoulders and gazed into his eyes, “We both know you wanna be under me with my cock rammed into your ass. You love me, I love you and this thing with Mikey won’t work. He's not good for you.” Leo’s face darkened, he pulled away and swung a punch, but Raphael caught his fist and growled, “You don’t wanna do that, Leo. You wanna be with me. Admit it. You still love me. We can work things out.”
“Drop dead. Why don’t you leave?” Leo shouted and finally landed a punch on Raphael’s beak. “No one wants you here! I wish to hell we’d never…You were the biggest mistake of my life. Get the hell out of my face!" Leo yelled and stalked out of the room.

Raphael watched him go and rubbed his sore beak. “I’ll still make Leo mine again,” he declared. ”I’ll never stop trying.”

Chapter Text

BACK IN THE PRESENT: FEBRUARY 18

Raphael pounded his punching bag in his room. Sweat dripped off him and his knuckles were bloody. I can’t fucking believe I’m a dad, he thought. No. Leo is and he’ll be a better dad than I could ever be. I'm not good at anything. All I do is screw up things. I still want Leo. Maybe I’d be good raising the baby with Leo, but not on my own and maybe the baby will bring us together. He looks like me and will remind Leo of me all the time. I'm not making sense, am I? But I know what’ll really make Leo want me. If I leave. I can’t stand him and Mikey together. It makes me sick. Leo will miss me like crazy and will want me back if I leave. I’m gonna do that. Leo will be all over me when I return.

Raphael packed a duffel bag, placed it on the bed and wrote a letter. He placed it in an envelope when he'd finished and wrote Leo’s name on it. Then he picked up his childhood teddy plush toy, Rufus, off the bookshelf. Splinter had bought the bear for Raphael’s second birthday and it was still in amazing condition. Raphael smiled as he remembered all the times he’d cuddled it and thought, the baby’s gonna love Rufus.

Raphael left his room, checked no one was around and snuck into Leo’s room. He was grateful that no one was there either.

XXXX

Raphael placed the letter underneath Leo's boxers in his dresser and hoped only Leo saw it. Then he turned his attention to his son.

Baby Leo was fast asleep in his crib and Raphael couldn’t help feeling proud as he gazed down at him. He was beautiful and perfect and Raphael’s heart overflowed with love.

"I know I said shitty things to you, Leo,” Raphael whispered as he stroked his son’s face. “But I didn’t mean them. I’m sorry, unlike your bitch biological mom. She really does hate you.” He kissed baby Leo's face and added as he withdrew his phone from his obi, “You're gorgeous, Leo, and you're gonna have the best life with your namesake while I’m gone.” He placed the bear in the crib, snapped photos of his son with the phone, picked him up and cradled him against his plastron. Tears streamed down Raphael’s face as he looked at his son, who woke and stared at him with wide green eyes.
“Gah!” Leo Jr. said and touched Raphael’s face, making him grin.
"You like me, huh, Leo?” Raphael said with a smile. “I love you and I promise me, you and your namesake will be a family when I come back. You gotta put up with Mikey for now. Give him hell, okay? Shit and piss on him. Do that for me. The bastard stole your namesake from me.”
“Googoo,” Leo Jr. said and cooed softly.
“Good. I knew you'd agree with your old man. You know I’m your dad, Raphael, don’t you? I am and I’ll always love you, Leo, despite what I said. I’m a mixed-up shit, but I love you and your namesake. Nothing will change that. All the things I said were for show. Shit. I shouldn’t have said them. I never think before I act, Leo, and it’s cost me so much. My leaving will make your namesake realize how much he still wants me, not Mikey. It'll also make me find myself and grow up. I’m fucking immature. Sorry. I swear a lot. Don’t do that, okay? Grandpa and your namesake hate it. Stay the sweet and innocent baby that you are. The world doesn't need another Raph.”
“Bah!”
“Good,” Raphael said as more tears ran down his face. “You be good, Leo,” Raphael said as he settled his son in the crib and then covered him with his blue fleecy blanket. “Here’s Rufus, my old teddy plush toy. I hope you love him like I did. I love you, precious boy.”

Raphael peppered his son’s face with kisses, left the room and headed to his room.

XXXX

An hour later, Raphael checked he had all he needed for his trip, took one last look around his room and said, “That’s it. It's time to leave.” He picked up his bag and left his room.

XXXX

Raphael was heading to the lair’s exit, when he heard a male voice.

"Raph, where are you going?”
Raph whirled round and saw Leo holding a mug of tea. “Out, Leo.”
“Where?”
“I don’t know. I haven't decided. I gotta get away and sort myself out. I’m a walking corpse since we split.”

I'd stay if he asked me to, Raphael thought. Come on, Leo. Tell me you want me to stay and you want me and I won’t go.

"Maybe it's for the best, Raphael," Leo said. "We’re all walking on eggshells and it’s hell. We’re not a team anymore and it’s…You bring the family down with your constant bickering with Mikey. You bring the family down. Period. Not hearing your snide remarks and seeing your angry face all the time will be nice. Find yourself and grow the hell up.”
Raphael’s face fell, his heart sank at Leo’s words and he said sadly as he set down his bag, “Leo, I’ve done a lot of shitty things, but I'll make it up to you.”
“Nothing you do or say will make up for what you did,” Leo barked, his eyes stony. “Giving me your son is noble, but it's also twisted, because he’s a reminder of why we broke up in the first damn place. But I don’t bear the kid any grudges. It's not his fault that his biological dad is an asshole. I’ll love him, will raise him and I'll be an excellent dad. So will Mikey.”

Raphael’s green eyes blazed at the harsh words and he lunged at his brother. He pressed his lips against Leo’s, making him drop the cup, which shattered.

“What the hell, Raphael?” Leo said, pulling away and glaring at his brother.
“I still love you, Leo, and I know you love me. You'll be reminded of me every time you see the baby and my absence will make you miss me. You'll beg me back when I return. I know you. You might be with Mikey now, but he’s just a rebound thing and you don’t really want him.”
“You arrogant bastard,” Leo growled, advancing and punching his brother's beak. “Get the fuck out of here. Go,” Leo added irately as he turned his shell on Raphael. He clenched his fists and his face was scrunched up in anger.
Raphael rubbed his beak and said, “We both know what I’m saying is true, Leo. I bet you think about me when you and Mikey fuck and you mutter my name when you jerk off alone in the bathroom. I know I do…"
“GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE, RAPHAEL!” Leo screamed and turned around. He grabbed a vase off the coffee table and threw it at his brother. It narrowly missed him.
"I'm leaving. I'll call you when I get to my destination. Try not to miss me too much.”

Raphael picked up his bag, walked out, glanced back once and saw that Leo had turned his shell again.

“What the hell's going on, Leo?” Don asked as he exited his room and then joined Leo.
“Raph decided to leave our family. I’m going to my room. Night, Don.”
“Gone where. When did he leave?”
“About three minutes ago.”

Don ran out of the lair and soon caught up to Raphael.

XXXX

“What are you doing, Raph?” Don asked.
Raphael turned around and said, “Leaving.”
“Why?”
“It’s a long story, Donnie.”
“I have time. Talk to me.”
“Leo and I were mates. I screwed things up and now he’s with Mikey,” Raphael said as he slumped his shoulders and hurt was etched on his face. “Seeing them together hurts and I gotta go away.”
“You and Leo? How long were you together? Why didn’t you tell me? We’ve always been close.”
“Two years. We were gonna tell everyone about us the day after the party where I met Brandi,” Raphael said as he set down his bag and then wiped tears away with the back of his hand. “Then she happened and Leo found out and dumped me. I swear to hell it was because I drank. I WOULDN’T have fucked her otherwise. I loved Leo and I still do.”
“Leaving won't make him want you back.”
“It will, because he’ll only remember the good times, you see? He’ll want me back and we’ll try again.”
“I don’t see it at all and I think you should come home. We need you.”
“No, Donnie. I gotta go. I love you, bro.”
“Where are you going?”
“I don’t know.”
“So, you’re leaving, but don't know where you’re going. That’s really smart, Raph. How will you take care of yourself? Do you need money? I have savings…”
“No, Donnie. I gotta do this on my own. Can you do me a favor?”
“What?”
“Tell the baby about his old man and that he's not all bad. Do that when Mikey and Leo aren't around."
“Why?” Don asked. Then his reddish-brown eyes widened and he said, “I get it. Everything you said was for show. You love the baby, Raph, and you want him. That’s good. Come home. I’ll help you win Leo back and you can…”
“Do as I asked, okay?”
“Anything else?”
“Yeah. Stay my cool bro. I’ll message you when I get to my destination,” Raphael said and threw his arms around his brother.

They hugged for a long time and both had tears in their eyes when they’d disengaged.

"I’ll…” Raphael choked out.
“Go to Ireland, Raph.”
“Why there?”
“You’re a little green man and you’ll fit in with the leprechauns.”
“Hey. I’m short, but not that short, Donnie,” Raphael said and chuckled. “They’re myths anyway and it’s the middle of winter there.”
“Yeah, but you’ll still have a blast. Go there. Be careful and call me at least once a day.”
“I will. Ireland it is then.”
“I’ll miss you, Raph.”
“Same here, bro," Raphael said as he picked up his bed and then walked away.

XXXX

Meanwhile, Leo was sweeping up the broken mug and thinking about Raphael.

Fucking jerk, Leo thought angrily. I’d like to stick this brush up his fucking ass! Who does he think he is? The fucking arrogant prick. I want to strangle him, but I also want to run my hands down his plastron and screw him. Our sex life was incredible. Mikey’s great in the sack, but not like Raph, who never failed to drive me wild with desire, even when we fought. I'm gonna miss him like crazy. Why am I thinking about that kelly green skinned fucker?

Leo knew the answer and he didn’t like it one bit. He adored Mikey, but he was still deeply in love with Raphael and he knew he always would be.

“Hey, Leo,” Mikey said cheerily as he entered the lair. He was laden with parcels. Seeing his mate sweeping, he added as he dropped the parcels on the floor and ogled Leo's rear, “I love the view."
“Hey, Mikey,” Leo said, striding to him and then kissing his lips. “Did you get all we need?”
“Yeah. I think I cleaned the store out. I got diapers, formula, baby toys, clothes, you name it.”
Leo chortled and said, “Show me.”

Donnie entered the living room with slumped shoulders.

"What’s wrong, Don?” Mikey asked.
“Raph left.”
"Did he go to Casey's place?”
“No. He left to find himself, whatever that means.”
“I guess he’ll be gone forever then,” Mikey joked, which earned a glower from Don.
“Hardy haha, Mikey! I’m going to my lab!” Don said as he glared at his brothers and then stomped out of the room.

“What crawled up his shell, Leo?” Mikey asked.
“Raph leaving. He and Don were always close.”
“Oh. How do you feel about Raph leaving?”
“I’m fine with it,” Leo lied and shrugged. “It's best. I hope he’s okay.”
“Raph can take care of himself, Leo. Let me show you what I got our baby.”

A cry was heard in the distance. The lovers were instantly in parent mode.

“That’s the baby. He probably wants feeding and changing," Leo said.
“I’ll make a bottle,” Mikey said and headed to the kitchen.
"I'll change him," Leo said and went to his bedroom.

XXXX

Leo picked a sobbing baby Leo up, planted a kiss on his cheek and said, "It's okay, Leo. I'm here."

Leo’s eyes landed on Rufus and he thought, Raph was here and he gave the baby his bear. That means Raph DOES feel something for the kid. He wouldn’t have done it otherwise or maybe he felt guilty for being a jerk. Maybe he wants the baby back. I have to call him and ask.

Baby Leo wailed again and Leo gently rocked him. Then he changed him and carried him to the kitchen.

XXXX

Mikey had finished preparing the formula, when Leo entered the kitchen. His eyes lit up when he saw baby Leo and he said, “How is he, Leo?”
“Starving,” Leo said with a smile.
“Grub’s coming up, little one. Can I hold him, Leo?”
“Sure. Sit down and I’ll pass him to you.”

The mates sat at the table and Leo passed Mikey the baby. Mikey grinned and looked at a now cooing baby Leo.

“You’re adorable,” Mikey said and gave the bottle to Leo Jr., who immediately latched onto the bottle's nipple and made sucking noses. “He’s a real little piggy. Just like Raph,” Mikey said and laughed. “Listen to him.”
“He’ll grow out of it.”
“Unlike Raph, whose table manners are atrocious.”
“I’ve heard far worse.”
“Aw, Leo. He’s so sweet. I hope he doesn’t have Raph’s temper.”
“We'll still love him if he does.”
“Do you think Raph’s gone forever?”
“I don’t know.”

Leo Jr. soon finished his bottle and Mikey burped him.

“Gaga,” Leo Jr. said as he gazed at Mikey.

“What do you think he’s saying, Leo?” Mikey asked as he stared tenderly at Leo Jr.
“I love you, Daddy,” Leo said and stroked Leo Jr.'s cheek. He gurgled and turned his green eyes-Raphael's eyes on Leo.
“Do you think Raph will want him back?”
“I don’t know. He gave the baby his childhood bear, so it’s possible…”
“No,” Mikey declared loudly and firmly. “He’s not getting the baby back. He’d fuck the baby up.”
Leo Jr. whimpered. Leo said, “Lower your voice. He doesn’t like raised voices. It won't happen. He’s our son, Mikey, and I won’t let anyone, even Raph take him away from us.”
“What about his mother? She may change her mind and want him.”

“I never will,” Brandi declared as she entered the kitchen. “He’s all yours. Where's your bastard brother, Leo?”
“I have no idea,” Leo said, bristling. “Missing him?”
“As if,” Brandi said and snorted in disgust. “I’m out of here. Thank you for being courteous to me, Leo. I know it wasn’t easy.” Leo Jr. gurgled. Brandi glanced at him and wrinkled her nose in revulsion. “I can’t believe that came out of me. It’s like something out of a horror movie,” she said and shuddered.
“He’s actually very beautiful,” Leo said coldly. “How can you be so callous about your own baby? You carried him. Yet, you have no attachment. I don’t understand it, Brandi.”
“Goodbye, Leo. Mikey,” Brandi said just as coolly. “Tell Don I said goodbye.” She looked at Leo Jr. with disdain, stalked out of the room and left the lair.

“What a bitch,” Mikey said. “I’m so glad she’s gone, Leo. What did she mean it wasn’t easy on you?”
“Nothing.”
“I sense you’re hiding something from me.”
“I’m not. It's been a long day, Mikey. Let’s go to bed with our baby boy.”

Mikey dropped the subject and they went to their room.

XXXX

The mates settled Leo Jr. in his crib, crawled into their bed and kissed each other good night.

Mikey reflected on their conversation and thought, I know Leo’s keeping something from me and I will find out what it is.

Chapter Text

Raphael was at departures at the airport and wondering which airlines flew to Dublin. He stopped a passing man, pulled his fedora down low so that his face wasn't visible and said, "Sorry to bother you, sir. Do you know which airlines fly to Dublin?"
"Quite a few, but one of the cheaper airlines is Aer Lingus. It goes direct to Dublin. They're over at that counter," the man said and pointed at one.
"Thanks, sir. Have a pleasant flight."
"You too, sonny."

Raphael didn't go to the counter. He looked around the airport for a way to get to where the planes were.

The hothead tried a door and was stopped by an airhostess.

"What are you doing?" the woman said. "Civilians aren't allowed here. I'm calling security!"

Raphael ran for his life and saw a door that was marked staff only. He slipped inside, saw no one was around, walked on and saw another door leading to the tarmac. He opened the door and headed to his plane.

First hurdle done, Raphael thought.

The crew were loading the luggage into the cargo hold.

Raphael jumped inside and crouched behind a large crate when their backs were turned. His heart hammered and he prayed they wouldn't find him.

"That's it," someone yelled. "Close the hatch."

Raphael heard the hatch close and he came out from behind the crate and sat down. Thirsty, he pulled out a bottle of water and a rolled-up blanket from his bag and leaned back against the crate. He sipped his water and thought, it won't be long until the plane leaves. The flight's about six hours. I wonder if Leo's found the letter yet. I'd better get some sleep. Tomorrow's gonna be one hell of a day.

He moved a few suitcases, lay down, covered himself with the blanket and was soon fast asleep.

XXXX

Leo Jr. woke up crying at 4 a.m. and instantly woke his parents.

"I'll get him, Leo," Mikey said. "You rest."
"Are you sure?" Leo asked, opening his eyes and looking at his mate.
"I am," Mikey said, picking Leo Jr. up and then tenderly kissing his cheek.

Mikey changed Leo Jr. and carried him to the kitchen to make his formula.

Leo closed his eyes and tried to sleep, but thoughts of Raphael invaded his mind and he tossed and turned.

I hope he's all right, Leo thought. He didn't know why, but he had a sudden desire to look at photos of him and Raphael. The once prized photos were hidden underneath his underwear in his dresser.

Leo rifled through his dresser and found them. He also found a letter addressed to him in Raphael's block letters handwriting. Curious, Leo opened it and read, "My dearest Leo, I'll be gone when you read this. I don't know where yet. I've realized I gotta go, because seeing you and Mikey together is killing me and I gotta find myself and grow up. I've done so much shit, Leo. I'm sorry. I can never take that back. If I could, I'd… Losing you has been hell and I miss being with you. Not just the sex, which was always sensational, but the closeness and our deep love that turned into ashes overnight. Is that all we're ever gonna have, Leo? Ashes and bittersweet memories? If so, I'd rather stay wherever I'm going. It'd hurt too much to live at home, knowing I can be around you, but that you hate me, that I can never touch you again and that Mikey gets to love you and make a life with you. I'm sorry, Leo. I was a fucking asshole. I took you for granted, I didn't respect you and I deserve what happened." Leo paused and saw that the next paragraph was smudged. Raphael had clearly been crying. Leo read, "I'm giving you my boy, because I know you'll raise him right and love him. It doesn't atone for what I did. I know you want babies, so he's my gift to you. I hope you'll tell him some good things about his Uncle Raph, because I do have some good traits, don't I? I'm not all bad. You think I don't love my son, because of the way I acted when he was born. I do, Leo. It was all for show. I love him with all my heart. I know I'd give him a shit life. All I do is fuck up and I'd probably screw him up. I don't want that for him. That's why I'm giving him up. He deserves the best with the person I love most in the universe. My Leo. I'll always love you, Leo, and remember…" Leo tried to blink back tears, but unable to, they spilled down his cheeks and onto the paper. "Our time together and I hope you can forgive me someday. Forever your Raphie xxxx."

A still tearful Leo placed the letter on the bed and dialed Raphael's number.

"Hi?" a sleepy gruff voice said.
"Raphie?"
"Leo?"
"Yeah. I found the letter. Did I wake you?"
Raphael yawned and said, "It's fine. I'll get some sleep later. Listen, I…"
"Where are you?"
"Plane headed to Dublin."
"So, you really are leaving."
"I thought you'd be happy about that. Listen, Leo, you were right about everything. I'm sorry. I wish that… If things were different…"
"They can be different."
"Huh? How? You're with Mikey now. There's no way in hell he'd let me have you."
"Turn the video on your phone on. I want to see you."
Raphael obeyed and Leo did the same thing. "Better?" Raphael asked.
"Much. Raph, you screwed up, but you were an excellent mate overall and you're not a bad person at all. I've never thought that. It's just I... But…" Leo rubbed his face and sighed. "I should have stopped you leaving when you said those things, but I was so mad. Do you know why?"
"No."
"Because those things were all true. Mikey was a rebound thing and I do wish you were here with me. I do still love and miss you, Raphie."
Raphael smiled and said, "I love and miss you too, Leo, but Mikey won't give you up. I can't blame him. He's not the sharpest tool in the toolbox, but he knows a good thing when he has it. You're that, Leo. You're pure light and goodness. I miss fucking you and loving you."
"I miss that too and me lying underneath you with your dick buried deep inside me."
"Careful, Leo. You're gonna make me drop down," Raphael said and smirked.
"I'll drop down too and make it even."
"Where's Mikey?"
"Kitchen with the baby."
"You know this is cheating, right? And you're okay with that? Mikey won't know that you're having cam sex with me."
"He'll never know and we'll talk when you get home, Raphie. Do do it. Drop down. I want to see you in all your glory."

Raphael grinned, removed his trench coat, gear and weapons and proceeded to rub his slit.

Leo did the same thing and it wasn't long before they dropped down. Their semi-erect cocks were slick with precum.

"Say my name when you cum, Leo," Raphael husked as he stroked his shaft.
"Say mine."

They frantically rubbed their cocks and climaxed a few minutes later.

Leo growled, "Raphieeee!", when he came a few minutes later and splattered cum across his plastron.
"Leo!" Raphael roared when he came. Hot jets of cum coated his plastron and dripped onto the floor. "Fuck," Raphael said breathlessly. "I miss you, Leo."
"I miss you too, Raphie," Leo said and panted.

Splinter stood in the doorway, having come to fetch Leo for an early morning pot of tea and to meditate, which they always did. He witnessed his sons' erotic behavior to his immense revulsion. "Leonardo, what are you doing?" he said furiously.

"Shit!" Raphael said on the other end of the phone. "Sensei."
"Raphael, I hear you," the aged rat said. "It is time for a talk. I believe you owe me some answers," Splinter added and closed the door. "I want them now."

Chapter Text

A terrified Leo hit end call, dropped to his knees and said shakily, “Dad, Raph and I were in a relationship. We were planning on telling everyone, but certain complications ended it. I was, uh...”
“What complications, Leonardo?” Splinter demanded. “Were you two reconciling? This, when you are with Michelangelo? How could you? He has been nothing but faithful to you and has even taken on Raphael’s child without complaint, when it must be painful to do so, knowing you were previously with his sire.”
“Raph cheated with Brandi and we broke up. Mikey doesn’t know that we were a couple. I was, uh... I was swept away in a moment of weakness when I found a letter Raph wrote. It won’t happen again. Please don’t tell Mikey,” Leo said as he bowed his head. “It’s better that he hears it from me.”
“Two of your brothers, Leonardo. Do you have designs on Donatello next?” Splinter asked angrily.
“Of course not! I, uh, didn’t plan this. I expected a happy ever after with Raph. Look, I’m sorry you saw this. I made a mistake. It really won’t happen again. Please don’t be mad.”
“I am and I am seriously disappointed in you, Leonardo. I expected better from you, who is supposed to set the example for your brothers! You are a disgrace. Raphael is too. Where is he?”
“Ireland.”

The phone rang. Splinter snatched it from Leo, hit answer and said furiously when he saw the caller ID, “Raphael, you are a disgrace to me and our clan! I did not raise you to be so base and loose with no morals! Not only do you father a child out of wedlock, but you have secretly been bedding Leonardo. Then when he breaks up with you, you aspire to lead him into cheating on Michelangelo, who has been a loving and supportive partmer and who is raising your child! You have no shame. If you ever plan on returning home, I hope you will have matured by then, because I will not accept any more of this atrocious behavior! Our ancestors are rolling in their graves!”
“Dad? Shit! I thought Leo would...” Raphael said fearfully.
“Leonardo, tell your brother what you told me. I cannot bear to speak to him one more second! He repulses me,” Splinter said as he handed the phone to his eldest.

Leo took a deep breath to steel himself. “Hi, Raph.” He had been about to reconcile with Raphael, but petrified of Splinter’s wrath and of hurting Mikey, he took the cowardly route. “Listen, Raph. This was a mistake in a moment of weakness. I’m with Mikey and I love him. You have to accept it.”
“But, Leo! You can’t. I love you and you love me,” Raphael said hysterically. “Is this Dad’s doing?”
“No. All me. Goodbye, Raph. I hope you have a wonderful trip,” Leo said and ended the call.

“Good,” Splinter said. “Now get out of my sight, Leonardo, and go be with your mate. “I cannot stand to be in your presence right now.”
“Yes, Dad,” a brokenhearted Leo said and then he left the room.

Splinter frowned. Disgusting. I was never like this when I was young. Kids today, especially Raphael. He’s shameless. Hopefully, his child will turn out differently.

XXXX

Leo found Mikey in the kitchen and said, “Hey, Mike. Got a moment?”
“Sure,” Mikey said, looking up from the stove, where he was cooking pasta. He beamed. “Donnie’s looking after Leo. What’s up?”
“This isn’t easy, but I figured you had to know.”
“Are you breaking up with me?” Mikey asked anxiously.
“No, but you might want to. Turn the gas off.”
“Ah. Okay,” Mikey said as he switched off the gas. Then he took a seat at the table. “Are you okay, Leo? You seem tense.”
Leo swallowed the lump in his throat and said, “Raph and I were an item for two years. We were planning on telling everyone and having a bonding ceremony, but he went to a party with Casey, got blind drunk and hooked up with Brandi. I went looking for him when he was late for his curfew and found them in bed together. I...”
“Oh, Leo, I’m so sorry,” Mikey said. “That must have been soul destroying.”
“It was. I was enraged and dumped him. Once a cheater, always a cheater. Regardless of the cirumstances, you know. I told him not to drink. I really loved him, Mike. I was planning to be with him forever. It blindsided me. I couldn’t function, but I sure as hell wasn’t gonna take him back. I deserved better. I mean, I do.”
“And then you got with me. Was I rebound?”
“No! Not at all. I love you, Mike.You are such a kind and loving person. I have no regrets being with you and I am lucky to have you.”
“I am grateful for you too. I am sorry you were hurt, Leo. I promise I’ll never do anything to hurt you.”
“I know you won’t. That’s not all. Dad caught me having a video conference call with Raph and we were masturbating and...”
“What the heck?” Mikey said in shock, his eyes wide. “You were doing that? Why, Leo, if you love me so much?”
“A moment of weakness. I found a letter he wrote and I called him. I’m sorry, Mike.”
“Yeah. So am I,” Mikey said heatedly, his eyes blazing. “I’ve given my all and been faithful to you, Leo and you wanna throw us away for a douche like Raph, who can’t keep his dick in his pants! I don’t get it! What does Raph offer that I don’t?”
“Nothing!” Leo said as he dragged a hand down his face. “I’m sorry, Mikey. I’ll understand if you want to break up. I’m despicable and a hypocrite. I called Raph out for cheating, but I was doing the same thing. I also understand if you don't wanna be a dad to little Leo after learning all of this. He’s Raph’s mini-me and...”
“Do you still love Raph? Be honest, Leo.”
“No. Like I said, I was weak and he knows how to get me going, Mike. It won’t happen again. I wanna be with you and raise Leo with you. Please forgive me.”
Mikey sighed. “I don’t wanna break up either, Leo, and I still wanna co-parent with you, but in order for us to work, we gotta be honest and open with each other and communicate. No more secrets from now on. Also, so you’re not led into temptation, I’m demanding that you don’t speak to Raphael until he’s home. He clearly knows how to manipulate you and to press your buttons and he can’t respect we’re together. If I find you have been talking to him, then I will not hesitate to pull the plug on this relationship. Do I make myself clear? I will also raise little Leo on my own.”
“Loud and clear,” Leo said, even as his heart shattered at the thought of no communication with Raphael. “I’ll do whatever it takes to make us work, Mike.”
“Great. Then we have a shot at working out. I’m going for a nap. I’ll catch you later,” Mikey said and left the kitchen.

Tears slid down a distraught Leo’s cheeks as he thought about all that had happened and his precious Raphael.

I’m sorry, Raph. I wanted to be with you, but I was scared of Dad’s wrath and I couldn’t hurt Mikey. I’m a coward, I know. Mikey’s been so fantastic and he doesn’t deserve any shit. I hope you forgive me some day and find love. Please don’t hate me forever. I couldn’t stand it.

XXXX

Brandi had pitched at her parents’ place. They’d welcomed her with open arms and had asked how her backpacking trip across the States had gone. Although she’d only been fifteen at the time when she’d fallen pregnant with Raphael’s kid, gone into hiding with the Turtles and had then told her parents she was backpacking, her parents hadn’t bothered to drag her home. She was asinine and they knew it wouldn’t have worked. They’d simply hoped she would be home soon. They’d told authorities that too.

Brandi was reading a book when her door opened and Casey entered the room.

“Hey, cousin,” Casey said. “Aunty Heather said you were home. Been ages. How are you? I haven’t seen you since the party.”
“Ugh. Don’t mention the party. I’d rather forget it,” Brandi snapped. “You’ve been out of state too, I know.”
“Yeah. I spent a few months interning in Cali. Why? The party was fun and last I saw you, you seemed keen on my pal. How’d it go?”
“It went. I don’t want to discuss it, Case.”
“Why? Raph’s a great guy. You could do worse than him.”
“For a turtle, maybe. You didn’t tell me that he was an animal," Brandi said irately. “You should have told me, Case. I have never been so revolted in my entire life. I had sex with an animal!”
“Raph isn’t gonna complain or report you,” Casey said with a chuckle. “What’s wrong? He gave you a good time, didn’t he? That’s what you wanted.”
“You are so gross and stupid,” Brandi said and facepalmed. “He’s an animal! I thought he was a human boy wearing a costume. We fucked, I fell pregnant and spent most of this last year with his grotesque family!”
“Say what?” Casey said incredulously, his eyes wide. “Raph’s a dad. You’re a mom. You’re parents to a kid. You didn’t go backpacking. You stayed with his family until you gave birth.”
“Wow. You can do the math. You’re so smart,” Brandi said heatedly as her eyes flashed. “This is your fault!”
“Hey, hey. It’s not on me. You chose to open your legs. I was long gone by then. You can’t pin that on me. So, what’s the deal? Are you and Raph an item?”
“What part of he’s an animal did you miss?” Brandi hissed. "Of course not. He’s an asshole. If I were into animals, I’d date his brother, Leo. He has manners and was kind.”
“Uh, so what now? Where's the kid?”
“I didn’t want it and neither did Raphael. Leo and Mikey are looking after it.”
“It? Doesn’t it have a gender and a name? How can you not want it? You carried it...”
“It’s a boy and I’m sure it’ll have a nice life with Raphael’s freak family, where it belongs. It’s an abomination,” Brandi said with a shudder. “I can’t believe it came out of me. Look at me and ugh. I just wanna forget this. Drop it.”
“I’m surprised Raph didn’t want his kid.”
“Why? He’s a selfish jerk and all he cares about is himself. It was very obvious when I was staying there. I am so happy to be home. You have no idea what a nightmare it was.”
“That’s not Raph. He’s kind, gentle, honest...”
“Really?” Brandi said sarcastically. "I never once saw those traits. If you think so highly of him, why don’t you date him? Please leave. I’m getting depressed talking to you.”
“What if the kid wants to know you?”
“Well, I don’t wanna know him and my vote is final.”
Casey pinched the bridge of his nose and said, “Okay. I understand that it’s been traumatic, but you’re still the baby’s mom, Brandi and he’s gonna wanna know who his bio mom is. Don’t you want to be there for him? Don’t you feel any love for the little soul you carried?”
“Not my concern. I birthed him. I’ve done my job.”
“You’ll be sorry one day, Brandi,” Casey said and sighed. He headed to the door and accepted that it was futile to change her mind at the moment. He’d try another time.
“I already am. I fucked his dad and I’ll regret that for as long as I live. Fucking hideous, psychotic, jerk freak!” Brandi said crossly.

Casey left her house and then went to the lair to see how everyone else was doing.

Chapter Text

Casey arrived at the lair and found Mikey in the living room. “Hey, Mike. How’s it going?” he said.
“Hi,” Mikey said as he looked up from the program he was watching. “Been ages. How are you?”
“Great, thanks. Yeah. I was in Cali for a while. Might make the move one day. Sand, sun, surf. What more does anyone need?”
“Sleep,” Mikey said as he rubbed his eyes.
“Ah. The little tyke keeping you up?” Casey asked as he sat down beside Mike.
“You heard, huh? News travels fast.”
“His mom told me.”
“She’s a nasty piece of work. How could anyone turn their back on their kid?”
“Brandi isn’t so bad, Mike. She’s just going through a phase and I think will be on the straight and narrow soon.”
“Sure,” Mikey said sarcastically. “She stayed with us and was absolutely awful. We were expected to wait on her hand and foot and she complained nonstop about everything. Raph was a moron to have hooked up with her. I feel for little Leo. He has two atrocious, slutty, selfish bio parents. Thank goodness he has me and Leo to take care of him now. We will ensure that he doesn’t turn out like them.”
“Raph isn’t that bad either, Mike, and you know it. He made...”
“Case, he’s a fuckup, but at least he realized his son was better off with me and Leo. That’s the only good thing I can say about him.”
“Where is he?”
“Don’t know and don’t care,” Mikey said with a shrug. “I hope he never returns. We don’t need him. Excuse me. I need to go to bed,” Mikey added and yawned. Then he left the room and went to his bedroom.

“Mikey said you were here," Leo said as he entered the living room with little Leo in his arms a few minutes later. The infant was wide awake and cooing softly. “Hi, Casey. Been a while.”
“Yep,” Casey said. “How’s the parenting thing going, Leo? Getting enough rest? Aw. He’s beautiful,” Casey added as he stood up and stroked little Leo’s face. “Can I hold him?”
“Not as much as I’d like,” Leo admitted. “But I wouldn’t change it for the world. Sure,” Leo said as he placed little Leo in Casey’s arms. “Hold him like that. Great. You’re a natural, Case.”
“Ah. You’re so precious,” Casey said as his heart flowed with love and he made a decision. “Hi, little one. I’m Casey, your cousin. It’s so lovely to meet you.”

“Gah,” little Leo said as he reached up and touched Casey’s face, making him smile.

“Leo, he’s the sweetest being ever,” Casey said. “I can’t believe he’s Raph and Brandi’s son.”
“He’s my son. They didn’t want him,” Leo said icily. “They just donated sperm and carried him. It’s late. I’m going to give him his bottle and then we’re going back to bed. You can visit another time.”
“Hey, Leo, you look really tired. Why don’t I give him his bottle and you get some rest? Take a couple of hours and I’ll bring him when he’s asleep. Sound good?”
“I can’t."
“You can. I’m his cousin. I can watch him for a while. I don’t mind. Honest. We'll be fine. Leo, you really need the rest and so does Mikey."
“In that case, I wouldn’t mind a couple of hours rest,” Leo confessed. “Okay. Let me get his bottle from the kitchen. I just changed his diaper, but he may need to be changed again soon. Can you change diapers?”
“Sure. I helped with my baby sister’s all the time,” Casey fibbed.
“I didn’t know you had a sister.”
“Yeah. Well, there’s a lot about me you don’t know.”
“Clearly. I’ll be back now,” Leo said as he went to the kitchen.

Casey thought about his cousin. Brandi, you’re gonna be a mom whether you like it or not. You can’t expect others to deal with the drama you create all the time. It’s time to step up and to be mature. This little guy needs you and you will do right by him. If not, I’ll take him. He should be with family anyway. Not dumped on Raph’s brothers, who may or not be his bio brothers. And when Raph gets home, he and I are gonna have a serious talk. He’ll help his baby mama and be a dad the kid deserves.

Leo returned with the bottle, showed Casey how to feed the baby and when he was satisfied that Casey was doing it right, he retired to his room.

“Just you and me, Leo,” Casey said as he watched Leo guzzle his formula down. “Well, not for long. You’re gonna meet your mommy. Would you like that? Yeah. I think you will. She's not that bad. She's just going through a rough patch.”

When Leo was finished feeding, Casey burped him and then put him in the carrycot he found by the couch and crept out of the lair. Then he placed Leo on the backseat of his car and started the engine. Destination: Brandi’s house.

XXXXX

Casey arrived at Brandi’s house, picked up the carrycot and went inside via the back door. His uncle was sometimes forgetful and left it open. Little Leo had fallen asleep. Casey siently made his way to Brandi’s room and opened the door.

Brandi was sitting up in bed and listening to music on her phone. Sensing Casey’s presence, she looked up and then socwled when she saw him and the carrycot.

“What the fuck, Casey? I told you I didnt want him! Get him away,” Brandi said heatedly as her eyes blazed. “How the fuck did you get him out of their lair? They seemed besotted with him.”
“Cunning,” Casey said as he lifted Leo out of the carrycot. “Come on. Hold him.”
“I will not. I’ll scream if you don’t go now.”
“And wake your parents? I don’t think you want that. Just hold him.”
“No! Casey, please take him away. I can’t bear to see him.”
“Hold him. That’s all I’m asking. Look at him. He’s an angel and you made him, Brandi.”
“If I hold him, will you go away?”
“Maybe.”
“Fine," Brandi said reluctantly.
Casey placed Leo in Brandi’s arms and said, “There you go. Look at your son. He’s gorgeous, isn’t he? A little cherub you and Raphael created.”
“Yes. We did,” Brandi said as she studied her still sleeping son. To her surprise, love and pride surged through her. “He is beautiful,” she said with a smile. “You’re right, but I can’t be the mom he needs, Casey. I’m a human and he doesn’t belong here. My parents will freak. He’s better off with Raphael’s family. Take him back.”
“No. You can make it work. I’ll help you. You do want him, don’t you?”
“I wanted him from the second I knew I was pregnant. I had never wanted anything that much, Casey and even when Donatello told me that he was probably going to be a mutant, I still wanted him. I spent time in the lair and I had a real crush on Raphael, but he wouldn’t even spend time with me. When he was forced to, he called me every name in the book. I deserved it. I was horrible to Raphael and I regret it. I knew he was taken and I still seduced him. Fuck. I caused his and Leonardo’s breakup and yet, Leonardo was still kind to me. The rest of the family were as well, though I know they only tolerated me for Raphael and the baby’s sakes. If things were different, they’re the family I would love to have. And Raphael is the kind of guy I would want. I said nasty things about him, but I didn’t mean them. He’s hot, strong, protective, gentle, caring and more. I saw how he was with his family. Yeah, he has flaws, but who doesn’t? I still like him. I wish he'd like me."
“I knew it! Casey said triumphantly. “You love Raph and you love your kid.”

“Who fucking isn’t staying here!” Mikey bellowed from behind Casey.
“Shit!” Casey said in horror as he turned around. “How did you find me?”

“Tracking device on your phone,” Leo said. “We all have it, remember? I needed the bathroom, saw you were gone and woke Mikey. Then we tracked your phone here and got in via the back door.”

“You’re not taking him,” Brandi said crossly, holding the baby tighter. “I changed my mind. I want him.”
“No,” Leo said, stepping closer. “Raph gave him to me and Mikey. You can’t do that.”
“I am his mom and I have rights.”
“Why do you suddenly want him back? You called him a monster.”
“I didn’t mean it. I always wanted him. I just thought he would have a better life with you guys, but I changed my mind. I want to do right by him.”

“Then leave him with us,” Mikey hissed. “He doesn’t belong in your world. How are you gonna raise him? What are you gonna tell your family?”
“I don’t know," Brandi said angrily. "I’ll figure it out, but you aren’t having my baby! Fuck off!”

A door slammed in the house and a man grunted.

“Ugh. That’s my dad probably going to the bathroom. You have to go,” Brandi said.
“You aren’t being practical!” Leo snapped. “You can’t care for him. Look at you, a wayward teen who beds everything in sight and who is selfish and rude. How can you care for a mutant baby, let alone a human one? Give him to us. Do the right thing. Please. We already love him so much.”

"Hello? Brandi, are you all right? I hear voices,” Gus, Brandi’s dad said from outside her door.

“Get out,” Brandi hissed as she pointed to the window. “Or I’ll scream.”
“I’m not leaving without him!” Mikey said, stepping closer.

“We have to,” Leo said sadly. “She means it, Mikey.”
“No! Raph gave him to us. She can’t do that,” Mikey said tearfully.

“Brands?” Gus called.
“I’m okay, Dad. Just listening to the radio,” Brandi said. “Night. I love you.”
“Night.”

“Go,” Brandi threatened again. “This is your last warning.”
“You’re a bitch,” Mikey said. “You don’t really love your son. If you did, you’d leave him with people who'll love him and give him all he needs. You can’t even take care of yourself.”

“Don’t worry, Mike,” Leo said. “She’ll soon find she can’t hack it as a mom and will contact us. We'll get him back. Let’s go. As for you, Casey,” Leo said frostily. “Our friendship is termininated. We trusted you and you betrayed us. Never visit us again or else.” Then Leo and Mikey left via the bedroom window and went home.

Brandi snuggled her baby and he opened his eyes and gazed at her. He clearly was a deep sleeper, as he hadn’t woken once.

“I’m sorry your friendship with them is over, Case,” Brandi said and then kissed her baby’s face.
“Yeah. Me too,” Case said. “But you’re family and you come first. And little Leo belongs with you, so I’ll deal. My next mission is to deal with his stubborn dad. I’ll call him.”
“You think Raphael would warm to me and forgive me if he saw what a good mom I was to our son?”
“It’s possible he would be amicable. Date you, no. Raphael does bear grudges. Not to his family, though."
“Then I’ll have to work harder to make him forgive me for wrecking his relationship, to date me and to become family,” Brandi said. “If Leo’s given him the boot, he’s fair game and I am genuinely sorry for the way I treated him. I’ll make it up to him,” she said with a wink. “What do you think, my boy? You me, and your daddy living together? Yeah. We’ll run away and make a home together.

“Baboo,” Leo cooed as if agreeing.

“Hah. I think Leo’s on board,” Casey said and laughed. “I’ll work on Raphael about being a family and co-parenting stuff. If it goes well and he falls for you, you’ll have him.”
“No. His name’s Raphael,” Brandi said and beamed at her son. “Raphael’s ex’s name for my son is distasteful. He should be named after his daddy. Casey, I want you to do me a favor. Take me to the farmhouse. No one goes there and me and my child will live there.”
“What about schooling, your parents?”
“None of that matters. We leave now. I have a nasty feeling that Leonardo and Michelangelo will return and try to steal him from me. Do they know about the farmhouse?”
“Nope.”
“Great. I’ll pack some bags. We’ll stop at your place on the way and also get baby supplies.”
“Brandi, are you sure? This is a lot... Moving, giving up your studies."
“I want to do it and I will,” Brandi said firmly. "I can always study at a later date."
"Okay. If that's what you want. You have my support."

Casey watched his cousin pack her bags. They loaded them in the trunk of Casey’s car. Then they left in Casey’s car with the newly christened Raphael.

XXXX

Casey and Brandi stopped at Casey’s place and he packed his bags and placed them in the trunk of his car. They then went to a store for baby supplies. Casey went inside and Brandi stayed in the car. Then they drove to the farmhouse.

Brandi grinned as she stared at her sleeping baby in the car.

I love this little kid so much. I was an idiot for running out on him. I should have taken him earlier. How could I have been so callous to such a sweet little being? Me and Raphael did good. I’ll show Raphael what a wonderful mom I am and I’ll make him mine. We'll be a happy little family living at the farmhouse and we’ll add to our brood. I’ll never ever let Raphael go.