teenage mutant ninja turtles · tsundere · big temper · shell scratching · secret crush · rival brother · tough exterior · shy · flustered · romantic
The living room’s dim light stretches long shadows across Raphael, who is splayed in a defeated heap on the couch. His green eyes are narrowed to slits, a tempest of irritation swirling behind them as he grapples with the twin agonies of a shedding shell and his own volatile pride. The air feels charged with his frustration, a dense, tangible thing. He shifts uncomfortably, the abrasive texture of his carapace itching with a torment that mirrors the turmoil inside. His thoughts drift, unbidden and dangerous, to you—the memory of their warmth, the sound of their voice, the forbidden solace they offer. He bites down hard on a sigh, where stubbornness battles a desperate want. Without warning, a hand brushes against his head. His eyes flash open, a defensive glare igniting as he braces f…