Chapter Text
Sometimes our heart knows something that our mind takes some time figuring out... here is the story of two guys experiencing what to do when that moment finally happens in regards to someone they not only love, but like-like. Ya know, like that.
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The best approach is the direct approach, I always say. But... maybe not this time. Probably should build up to it, little hints to see if he gets the big picture before I spell it out. He's a clever guy after all, I'm sure it won't be that difficult for him to figure out.
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The most obvious place to start is by saying something nice as it doesn’t bode well to insult the person you’re interested in. Paying sincere compliments are little gestures that have a big impact…
(1) “Sorry ta interrupt, heard Mikey banging around in the kitchen so I got up ta see what was going on and thought I’d grab ya something since yer usually up at this ungodly hour.”
Leonardo looked up in surprise at Raphael who had a plate of toast in one hand and a cup of hot tea in the other.
“Well this is unexpected, but appreciated,” he replied while receiving the two items.
“Yeah well… I know ya don’t like surprises but figured ya deserve a good one now and then.”
(2) “Warm hot breakfast for the smartest turtle I know!” Michelangelo announced as he sauntered into Donatello’s laboratory. The genius looked up with mild surprise.
“Morning already?” he asked, glancing at the clock.
“Well… earlier than usual. Seems we both didn’t get much sleep last night so I figured I’d make sure you took a break,” the youngest flashed a bright grin which warmed a small smile on the other’s face.
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(3) How the hell do people wake up so early? I thought I got up early enough to catch Leo before Mikey started breakfast, but turtle luck strikes again... Whatever, I took Leo his usual toast and tea he has after morning meditation. He was so surprised he didn't seem to mind I interrupted. I tried to hint he could get used to this more but he thought I joked to don't get used to this and so we just had a half-hearted chuckle.
Dammit.
(4) Okay so I said I'd start off subtle... but I don't really do subtle. I've made all my bros breakfast in bed before. Sure they were usually injured or sick, but still... Not so unusual, right? Probably less so since Donnie was still in his lab, seems he pulled another all-nighter.
Of all the mornings Raph couldn't sleep and was up early. He wasn't in my way, weird thing is I saw him take some toast and tea up to his room. Well, he said he was going to his room. But he also said the tea was coffee because we all know other than Master Splinter only Leo drinks that hot leaf juice. Or maybe he snuck into the sleepy tea or whatever it's called to help get back to sleep and doesn't want to admit it. Whatever, I have more important things to worry about...
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(5) “Excellent sparring session today, guys!” Leonardo praised his team.
“Thanks! I especially like how Donnie caught Raph off-guard and knocked him down,” Michelangelo laughed, giving an affection look to Donatello who just smiled.
(6) As the younger two left, Raphael lingered a moment longer… Having noticed, the eldest turned to his immediate younger brother.
“Everything okay? Do you need something?”
“Yeah I’m fine. Just wanted ta, ya know, say thanks. Ya do a good job keeping us in line,” Raph uncomfortably rubbed the back of his neck until he noticed Leo’s expression soften.
“Thanks, that means a lot to hear. Especially coming from you…”
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(7) Tip: Wear red. Red is the color of romance and passion and is very popular with strong men looking for a challenge.
“Done!” Raphael shrugged, tossing the magazine aside.
(8) “How do I look, D?” Michelangelo asked, once again sauntering into Donatello’s lab after glancing through a magazine that looked to have been tossed haphazardly on the couch.
The genius looked up and tried, unsuccessfully, to not chuckle at the turtle in front of him.
“Mikey… why are you wearing that?”
“I saw it and liked it! So… what do you think?” The youngest grinned, tilting the large brim of the red ladies’ fascinator hat forward and looking out underneath coyly.
“I think,” the other said with a smile, “it certainly makes a statement. I’m just not sure what it’s saying.”
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(9) “Blue really is the perfect color for ya… matches yer eyes and all.”
“Thanks. I like how it symbolizes a lot of things I strive towards… trust, tranquility, serenity, stability, intuition, inspiration and inner peace.”
“Yeah… I’d say all that matches ya too.”
(10) “D, did you know that purple represents royalty and wisdom?”
“I did. The color purple is often associated with royalty, nobility, luxury, power, and ambition. It is believed that since it combines the calming elements of blue and the powerful energy of red, the mix of attributes from both primary colors creates a sense of balance, fulfillment, and peace.”
“So you’re saying that you are better than both Leo and Raph combined?” the youngest grinned.
“I wouldn’t say that,” he chuckled not looking up from his work.
“I would!” he complimented.
“Don’t let either of them hear you say that or you’ll get us both in trouble.” He looked up and smiled. “Are you aware of what orange represents?”
“Optimism, right?”
“Yes and so much more. The psychology of orange tells us that the color has traditionally been a symbol of optimism, happiness, enthusiasm and youthful connections. Like you, it’s associated with someone who is energetic, generous, playful, spontaneous, vibrant and witty.” He looked at the other with an almost admiring look. “Also symbolizes confidence, courage, and change…”
“That’s a lot of C words,” Mikey chuckled.
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