Let Me Save You (A TMNT fanfic)

Chapter 21 - Confrontation

I do not own 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' nor any characters affiliated with the series.

Chapter 21 - Confrontation

*Dani*

The maintenance room was dark and I found myself tripping occasionally on unseen objects. Every time I tripped, Raph was at my side helping me to steady myself again. I'd thank him, but he would only grunt in response and move away again. His actions were confusing me and I tried to ignore it, but it was getting under my skin.

"Dani," someone whispered as they nudged my arm.

I turned my head to Casey and squinted to try and make him out in the dark. "Hey, Casey, what are you doing?"

He let out a sigh and his voice lowered. "Look, I just wanted to talk to you about April." He paused a moment. "I just want to let you know that I'll be focusing on protecting April so you can focus on Sacks. I don't want her to dive in and get herself into something she can't get out of."

"Okay..." I responded softly. "Don't let Raph know, he'll get angrier than he already is. But I agree, focus on April. I can handle myself so don't worry."

Our group came to a sudden stop and Leo slowly opened another door. Fluorescent light flooded the room and I squinted at first, but my eyes adjusted quickly. Everyone remained silent and kept their eyes on Leo. He stuck his head out into the hall and looked left and right. He motioned for us to follow and we all crept into the hallway. In the light, I felt exposed, like any bad guy could clearly see me, even though it was obvious no one was around. I moved to the right side of April and Casey was on her left. She had a small frown on her lips, but I could tell she was grateful for the protection. Ahead of us, Donnie and Leo lead us through the white halls. We'd stop at random points when we thought we heard workers coming. After twists and turns, and after the minutes of walking dragged on, we finally stopped. I looked around and not too far away were a set of double doors that led to a parking garage and nearby was an elevator left unguarded.

"Alright, this is where we split up." Leo announced quietly.

"Already?" April squeaked.

Donnie walked over and started talking quietly to her, to calm her down. I stepped away to give them some privacy. I leaned against the wall and crossed my arms over my chest. I glanced over to Raph to find him talking with Leo. Leo said something then gestured to me. My eyes widened as Raph looked at me instantly. His eyes locked with mine and I felt my cheeks heat up, then I looked away.

"Dani..." Raph said softly.

I tensed in surprise at how quickly he had come over. I looked up slowly, scared to meet his gaze.

"Remember what you promised," he continued. "Please, I don't want to lose you again."

A lump began to form in my throat and I nodded. "You won't, I promise," I replied quietly. "You'll see me later." This promise I actually meant. I would see him again, and he would see me.

He held his hand out to me, but I ignored it and instead threw my arms around him in a hug. It took a moment, but he finally put his arms around me. I felt small and safe in his embrace, and I selfishly didn't want to leave it. We stood there silently, neither wanting to end the moment. To my surprise, I was the one to pull away. I smiled sadly up at him, then backed away.

"Like I said, I'll see you later." I giggled then choked as a sob flared up. I swallowed thickly, bit my lip, and blinked away the tears that started to pool.

Leo moved to Raph's side and gave me an encouraging smile. "Good luck," he said simply.

"You too," I replied with a nod, but not breaking my gaze with Raph.