Letters

by Morgaine

Another Trunks/Goten fic. Yaoi. If you don't like it don't read it. Extreme Angst Alert!

5. Letters: Chapter four (a)

Hey peeps!

Sorry this took me so long to get out...and this is only the first half of the chapter (part b is just as long...if not longer.) But I figured I've left you hanging for far too long. Part b will be out as soon as I'm done revising...I'm a little nuts when it comes to revising but I am finishing the fic! So don't worry.....annyway here ya go the first part of chapter 4

Disclaimer: Don't own them..please don't sue me!

Letters: 4a

I must've stared at each word of that letter a million times before my brain started working and my mouth moistened up again.

Ok so what? He got my first letter instead...so what if he knows how I've felt since the day I knew what the words meant.

I laughed shakily and ran a quivering hand through my hair.

It isn't that bad...

Suddenly my throat became dry again and I nearly backhanded the flight attendant as she walked by, begging for water. She hastily brought me a glass, probably noticing the urgency in my expression, and the way I almost tore her arm off. I choked back 9 glasses before the panic of the situation set in and the walls of the plane started to push towards me.

This wasn't happening! I must be in some sort of crazy nightmare or something....yeah that was it, it was just a nightmare. If I pinch myself then I'll wake up the day before I got Trunks's marriage announcement and I'll laugh about this later.

I pinched my arm roughly, only awakening a small shriek from my trembling lungs as a small bruise formed on my arm where my nails had just attacked.

Dammit! This isn't a dream!!

My lungs began to contract painfully and I forced myself to take a few deep breaths, watching as the plane evened out. My eyes on the sky kept my misted mind in focus as we flew calmly over a thin, endless layer of dust-coated clouds floating lazily passed me; the true contrast to my inner turmoil. I had to think this thing through thoroughly.

I've talked to him since the day Pan sent the letter and he didn't say a word about it. Hell, I even talked to him yesterday on the phone and everything seemed fine! He sounded exactly the way he always does.

I bit my bottom lip in thought...something was definitely out of place.

It could be that he doesn't want to embarrass me, or...maybe he doesn't think of me that way and is trying to forget about it completely.

I shook my head quickly before the little evil bud of despair could blossom further into something more ugly and permanent. No! That wasn't like Trunks at all, when something confronted him he made damn sure it was resolved, and quickly. But this was unlike him too, I just don't get it!

I closed my eyes against my confusion, choosing the familiar anxiousness that always came when I thought of seeing him. The feeling came as always, but was different from the anxiety I was used to. This was like a nervous, terrified anxious, and although the feeling was nauseating, it was much more comfortable then the complete confusion and pain that was bubbling to the surface.

God! What the hell was I going to do! I had to think of something and quick!

I wish I'd never written that letter!

I could almost see the small glimmers of hope flash above my head as a thought occurred to me.

Maybe he didn't get it. It wouldn't be the first time one of my letters got lost in the mail. That would explain why Trunks wasn't acting any differently, AND would save my butt!

I silently prayed that if there is any being out there that cares at all about my life then the post office lost the cursed thing!

I started to calm down a bit at the thought that maybe I wasn't doomed after all. I even got my appetite back enough to choke down some of the disgusting airline food.

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The plane had finally landed after a long, grueling 10 hours but I was reluctant to leave the plane. The nagging thought of Trunks and the letter were still burning deep, painfully nervous welts into my brain, and I knew I'd break into a thousand pieces if his silence was, in fact, a rejection.

I peeled myself off of my seat and grabbed my duffle bag, slinging it over my shoulder and heading out of the plane and into the airport.

Sure enough, it was raining and the grey clouds hung low and taunting in the sky, waiting to fall and blind the bright city. It was dark out, but the vibrant lights of the city illuminated the clouds, forcing the night to brighten its solemn features for the night owls. I had never seen so many lights before and their sheer brilliance was enough to dull the agitation that had only increased since we landed. Each bulb of light sparked with glamour; twinkling promises of excitement and intoxicated joy drawing my eyes, and everyone else's with me.

I've always wondered what it was like, to live in a city so full of life, sugar-sweet delirium at all hours of the day and night. A complete contradiction to the small town I lived in, where everything closes at 9pm.

I can't wait to go for coffee at 3 in the morning!

"Goten over here!"

My head snapped away from the city and fell on a much more exotic sight: a bundle of purple hair, bouncing above the crowed to get my attention. My anxiety returned, making my shoulders stiffen painfully and my back tense bitterly.

He looked the same, beautiful and breathtaking as he always was. His hair was a little longer then I remember, grazing his neck seductively as I absently licked my dry lips. He was wearing a business suit and I assumed he'd just gotten off work. The dark beige fabric hugged his figure professionally, giving him the look of a president. A playful grin came across my placid face and I suddenly got the urge to play 'Boss and Secretary'.

The sudden heat between my legs and a squeal from a young child snapped me back into the agonizing reality of my situation.

If the letter didn't give away how I felt then my 'creative' imagination is going to bring the truth, painfully to the surface. I'm never going to make it!

I walked, nervously towards him, noting any facial features that might give away that he knew something...but all I saw was the brightest smile I'd ever seen and only for me.

"Geez buddy, you look so pale, the food wasn't that bad was it?"

He put a friendly arm around my shoulders and hugged me to him. I could feel the heat start to rise again and I fought like a mad man to keep my hormones in check, focusing on anything to keep my dirty mind off that game I wanted to play.

The tone in his voice was kind and cheery, no hints of regret, confusion, or anything that would even suggest that he knew anything at all. I smiled to myself as we pushed passed the large groups of people.

I love the post office!

"Naa, the food was fine, I'm just really tired. That's the last time I let Gohan talk me into taking a commercial flight."

He laughed good heartedly and led me over to the baggage claim.

"Why do you think I flew down on my own for Christmas? I'm too impatient to sit there idly for Kami knows how long!"

"I'd feel sorry for the flight attendances."

He laughed cheerfully, the sound of sweet chiming in my ears as I grabbed my suitcases and we walked towards the door.

The front doors opened with a whispered 'swoosh' and we stepped through into the smokey, damp parking lot. Trunks pushed passed me, pulling a group of jingling keys from his suit pocket and stopping in front of a black, sleek hover car.

"You brought the car?" I asked, setting my bags down beside the passenger door.

He smiled at me, slipping a key into the door, and turning it quickly. The lock clicked free and he opened it for me, before gracefully walking over to the trunk and threw my bags inside.

"You didn't expect me to carry your bags to the other end of town did you?"

"No I thought we'd fly..."

"In a big city like this, you must be tired."

I blushed and stepped into the car, closing my door as the smell of clean leather invaded my nostrils. I sat still, watching with child-like fascination as Trunks walked over to his side of the car. He was still the boy I knew so long ago, the boy that I played with and planned tricks with. You could see it in his step, still bouncy and full of childish mystery. I wondered absently if he knew how young he really looked as he opened the driver side door and stepped in.

We sped away quickly, the lights of the city molding and flashing passed us in one Gestalt line. I couldn't peel my eyes off the bustling energy of the city, people walking happily up and down the street: skin of every natural shade, hair colours ranging from black to flourescent blue, people dressed in everything from business suits to practically nothing at all. There were people in groups, some in pairs, some alone. As we stopped at a red light, my eyes fell on a couple embracing each other tightly. I could see the face of the man resting comfortably on a woman's shoulders, a look of mourning on his face. The woman had her back to me but I could see the sad tension in the way she held herself. I smiled as she whispered something and he smiled sadly, obviously preparing to depart. When they pulled apart my breath caught as I realized they were both men and before I had a chance to question it, we sped off as the light flashed green. I look towards Trunks, his eyes snapping back towards the road, averting his attention from me.

"Trunks," I began, looking back out at the city.

"Hmm."

"Do you think it's strange to live in a city like this?."

He looked at me questioningly and I cleared my dry throat.

"I mean, where people are so....different."

"No not really. This is where you get to see the real side of people ya know...and with all the diversity, I don't feel so strange being who I am, even though it would still be considered freaky."

I nodded and looked back at his face which had fallen sadly, if only for a moment. I knew how he felt. He wanted to be normal, to live a normal life and not the life of a Saiyan. When we were young, we were proud of the strength and power we inherited, all we wanted then was to be like our fathers. But, as we grew so did our opinions on the matter. I did my best to focus on teenage things, like girls and food and issues I couldn't control. Trunks wanted to be a regular kid, with regular friends and a regular family, and it always bothered him inside, even though he tried to hide it. He was the man who could create almost anything...he was a real genius, with money to spare and could have anything he wanted, except this. He would convince himself of his normality every day, pretending that his father wasn't royalty, pretending he wasn't his father son. Not that the idea of being Vegeta son ever bothered him, it was the alien heritage that pumped through his veins that ate away at any chance, he thought, of having a normal life. He knew, that of all the inventions, money and creativity he held in his power, this was something he couldn't have, not truly. It humbled him, he stayed beside me and I him. he belongs with me, the only one who understands him for what he truly is: A half-breed who only wants to be whole.

We rounded a corner and stopped in front of a high apartment building that seemed to kiss the sensuously grey sky. Trunks and I stepped out of his car and he graciously grabbed my bags and we headed inside.

The lobby was large and bright, two couches grazed either wall, gold and blue coloured paint adorned the wall while two long mirrors coated the entrance like ice. The elevator door was nestled snugly in between the large mirrors; soft 'dings' sounded from it as Trunks pressed the call button. It opened with a loud ring and the smell of smoke and perfume hit my nose like a bat to the head as we walked into it.

The doors closed behind us and Trunks's finger pushed gently on the number 44 and I stood at his side, tense, dizzy and nervous. I felt like a statue on a tilt-a-whirl!

There was a long silence, the only sound was the constant 'ding' as we rushed passed each floor and each floor rung in my ears with painful inevitability. I nearly jumped out of my skin as Trunks put a reassuring hand on my squared shoulders. He smiled kindly and contracted his hand, gently massaging my covered skin.

"Don't be nervous, Jen's really nice trust me."

I sighed and leaned into him, letting his arm fall over my shoulders and hang limply over my own.

"I trust you, I just hope she likes me."

"Trust me Chibi, she already does."

I jumped again as the sudden halt of the elevator coming to its final stop. The door slid open with the same piercing ring and Trunks laughed as we stepped out of the elevator. The hall was narrow and long, the shaggy brown carpet sent small waves of static to my fingers and a tiny spark sounded when I touched the wall. Brown doors littered the sides of the hall, you could hear noises emanating from some of them, sliding under the door for any voyeuristic guests who were just passing through. The golden numbers on the doors sparkled as they counted down: 4410, 4409, 4408...Trunks picked up his pace and we stopped at the number I've written down a thousand times: 4405. I could feel the sweat oozing down my forehead and my palms became wet and shaky.

Why was I so nervous?

Because this was the person Trunks had confided in for almost a year. She was my double, sorta. I was looking forward to meeting her, really I was...I was just afraid too. Afraid that she knew the pieces of him that I'd missed over the year. Afraid that, in my absence, she became something to Trunks that I wasn't. I thrived on the relationship I have with him, it's the only one I can have. He was my other half...I don't like to share him.

He opened the door and I was violently pulled out of my thoughts by the sound of high pitched feminine laughter. I swallowed hard and rubbed my sopping palms over my jacket nervously...Oh God she has company.

"Jen has her friends over, don't worry they know you're coming."

I gulped as Trunks shooed me into the direction of the voices and I skipped down the tiny hallway to where the noises were. I might as well make the best of it.

Five woman sat gossiping at a small table in the middle of the dining room, coffee cups littered the surface like ants at a picnic, smiles on their flushed cheeks. As I got closer, the voices stopped and all eyes were on me. I smiled as kindly as I could and waved at them enthusiastically.

"Hi there ladies."

The bubbly blond's gaze turned on me and her big, blue eyes glinted with mischief and something else I couldn't place, and didn't want to.

"So," She started, standing up and walking towards me in an intimidating fashion, "you must be Goten."

I nodded and all 10 eyes were now scorching me with curiosity.

"Trunks! Aren't you going to introduce us?" The darker haired girl yelled, sounding more then a little annoyed.

"I'm putting his bags away Venessa! Simmer!"

Venessa cringed and shot a cold glare down the hallway, and I had a hunch that Trunks could feel it.

"Do you have a death wish?" I gaped at her rudeness, and the blonde put a comforting hand on my shoulder.

"She always acts like that. Don't worry, it's just the way she is."

I smiled faintly and she flashed me a bright smile. Trunks came up behind me, shuffling his feet as he walked and stood next to me.

"Ok Goten this is Jen," Trunks began pointing to the blonde who was standing on the other side of me.

I figured as much.

"And you've already been graced with Venessa's presence."

"Damn straight!" Venessa said, leaning back in her chair with an award winning smile on her chubby face.

Trunks rolled his eyes and pointed to the girl with shoulder length blond hair.

"And Goten this is Kelly."

"Hi Goten! Nice to meet you." She waved her hand, smiling brightly.

"Nice to meet you too."

"That's Johanna." He pointed to a smaller looking, surly woman with shoulder length, dyed red hair. She didn't say anything but simply nodded her head, acknowledging my existence. Somehow I felt proud just to have her even give me a nod, she has the air of Vegeta around her.

"And last but not least, that's Sarah." He pointed to the girl with short, brown hair, as short as Videl's actually.

"Hey there." She chimed, picking up her cup and sipping it slowly.

I flashed my best 'Son Goten' smiled at the group, relaxing significantly at the warm atmosphere that surrounded each person.

Jen put her cool hand on my shoulder again and smiled brightly at me.

"I'm so glad to finally meet you! Trunks talks of no one else and now I have a face to the legend!"

I blushed slightly and turned to see Trunks beaming proudly...his smile is like the sun and I always crave its warmth.

"I've heard a lot about you too Jen, thanks for taking care of the baka."

Trunks punched me playfully in the shoulder and crossed over to the kitchen leafing through the many cupboards, and pulling out large amounts of food.

"You must be starving Chibi, you always are." I smiled at that and sat down at the table.

"So Goten, are you ready to see Trunks make a fool out of himself in front of his friends and family?" Jen asked, a fanciful smirk grazing her lips.

My face fell for a second but I forced the feeling down and let out a small sigh.

"I'm always up to seeing Trunks humiliate himself."

"Live here, it happens more often then not." Venessa said, glancing over her shoulder and smiling in triumph as Trunks grunted in annoyance, still grabbing food from the cupboards.

"How long are you staying for Goten?" Kelly asked, lighting the air around the room.

"About 2 months, I was only gonna stay for a month but I got everything done early so I had an extra month to spare and I couldn't think of a better way to spend my time then with my best friend. I wanted to help out too, things are going to start getting hectic when the wedding gets closer...Trunks doesn't do well under stress, but I'm sure you've noticed."

Sarah laughed lightly, standing up and walking towards the kitchen sink.

"Oh we know...all too well."

I laughed as Sarah put a cup of coffee in front of me. I took a sip and smiled to myself, it's my favorite kind: Irish mocha.

"Well that was nice of you, I'm sure Trunks appreciates the help." Johanna stated flatly, arms crossed over her chest and scowling in a friendly manner. I thought it odd that she could come off so intimidating yet still be relaxed enough to look comfortable where ever she is. She is way too much like Vegeta.

"Well I'm sure Jen will let you stay as long as you want, and you're always welcome." Kelly chimed. I smiled in appreciation and Kelly grinned back.

I almost jumped out of my seat when Jen spoke. Her voice is quite loud, or maybe it's just my sensitive ears.

"Damn Straight!! You can stay as long as you want! Besides, any friend of Trunksy is a friend of mine." She stood up and lightly pinched my cheek. I laughed nervously and she winked at me.

Trunks took this time to come back to the dining room carrying a large amount of food and a bottle of pop under one arm, his cheeks stained with the ghost of a blush. He stood next to me and motioned for me to stand up, I was more then willing to comply.

"Well Ladies as wonderful as it always is to see you again, I'm taking my friend back, Jen I'll be in my room if you need me."

"Sure thing, just clean up after you're done ok."

"Yeah, yeah." Trunks motioned for me to follow him and I turned back briefly.

"It was nice to meet you all."

I almost keeled over at the loud display of appreciation. They sure are a loud bunch.

I followed Trunks through the living room and down a narrow hallway, passing a small bathroom on the right, a closed door with a plastic canvas cloud, the word 'Quiet' written above a teddy bear, hanging on the door knob: That must be Jen's room. There was a door at the end of the hall, which Trunks opened slowly due to all the stuff he was carrying and walked in. As I followed him, I saw another room kiddy corner to Trunks's where my bags sat on the bed. That must be my room.

I turned my head back into the room and gasped at how different it was then my expectations. His floor should be flawless, not a piece of clothing to be seen, everything in here should be neatly placed, organized and sparkling with cleanliness. Instead there was paper, books and assorted clothing covering the floor; so much that you couldn't see the carpet. The drawer on the computer desk was open with papers and documents hanging out in every direction, empty dishes off to the side. The only contrast was his neatly made bed, a pale blue comforter ironed neatly over a Queen sized mattress with fluffy pillows kissing the headboard.

Trunks sat on the bed, laying against the headboard, and placing the food on his thighs sighing in a relaxed 'I just got of work and needed my bed' way. He stretched out like a cat on a mountain of feathers, his graceful limbs reaching outward to release some of the tension the day had collected in them. His back arched forward slightly, eyes squeezed shut as he wriggled into a half sitting, half laying position and I smiled at his elegance. He was a prince, in all his glory and I love him all the more for it.

I followed his lead and walked through the clutter to the other side of the bed, laying in the same position as Trunks, though not as gracefully. A comfortable silence enveloped us and I turned to see Trunks, eyes closed softly, with a content little smile on his bewitching lips. I smiled at the how familiar it felt: I felt at home, and I didn't realize until now just how much I needed this feeling. He is home, my home.

I sighed lightly, nothing but the happiness of the moment escaped my lips and he opened one of his lids, looking at me curiously with that one blue orb. I decided to break the silence and the sound of my voice was as I remembered it: soft and very playful.

"So what happened to Mr. Neat freak?"

He sat up slightly and looked around the room, a weary look on his face.

"I left him back home, besides you try being the president of a company, there's no time to clean your room." I smirked at his sarcasm as he opened a bag of chips.

"Whatever you say...Trunksy."

I laughed as he choked, trying in vain to swallow whatever was in him mouth. He shot me a quick glare and gulped back a mouthful of pop.

"She makes up nicknames for everyone. She calls Tousan Veggie-kun."

"Sure Trunksy, whatever you say."

I smirked at him again and grabbed a handful of cookies, chewing them happily between giggles. Trunks smiled and put an arm around my shoulder, squeezing me in a friendly half hug.

"It's good to have you back Chibi."

I laughed and reached for a rather large chicken, preparing to shove it into my mouth.

"Good, cause you're stuck with me for a while."

"I wouldn't have it any other way."

Warmth, like the sun after a shower it covered me and I sank into it. The beautiful light of something familiar tightened around me, safe and strong: A daze of contempt sedating me beyond this natural sleep. A soft wind caressed my hair, parting each strand like a master magician with one of his puppets. Was I outside? Wait! Not wind, the deep inhale and exhale of a body pressed tightly to my cheek. Soft, moist skin under my limp hands, shifting and curling with every twitch of my nerves.

Purple silk kissing my shoulder, and I wanted more, to taste that beauty. Silk? No hair, but his hair is like silk...Trunks.

"Trunks...love..." I almost didn't hear the groaning, desperation in my voice as I shifted, locked in place by arms around my shoulders. The smell of cinnamon and smoke was potent and creamy, washing over my skin like a fine lotion and the air was thick with sleep.

I must be dreaming of him again.

My dream are always so cruel, always forcing my fantasies to life; like Selene and Endymion I'm doomed to love him, but never have him...except in these thick, warm nights where my lucid dreams take hold of my desires and give me a taste of him.

I will always be tormented by this dream I can never have.

"Goten..."

Only a whisper pushed tightly to my ear, but so real and wanting, damn these dreams!

My eyes fluttered open in a cloud of drowsy mist, straining through the fading darkness. His scent attacked my body, stretching and pulling at my skin, lighting a fire that I thought was reduced to embers. It blazed inside my soul and I felt hot and damp with this growing need as I let my fingers slip over something warm and rising. Is this his skin? So soft...so soft, like the down of a swan...It feels so real! Even as my fingers move heavily through thick air, I can feel that softness twitch and bristle, his breath becoming short.

"Goten..."

I froze, hearing my name with such need, real...so real. I tilted my head up and his piercing blue eyes iced my skin, a sleepy gaze coating them. His eyes have never looked so real, I couldn't stop staring into their depths, a twinkle of something familiar grazing his face. Maybe...maybe I could feel that face I've always longed to touch. My fingers stretched forward, lightly brushing his soft face, tracing his chin with my thumb. Why is this dream so real?

A tapping made me stiffen and I would've ignored it except for the small sound of a woman clearing her throat.

His eyes snapped up and his smile grew to one of a more mischievous nature as his arms released their tight hold from around my waist. When did his arms move from my shoulders?

"Morning Jen."

I turned my head in the direction of his gaze and stiffened as Jen stood in the doorway, leaning against the door frame. This wasn't a dream! This was real, his arms still around me, I'm really tangled around him...I really called him lo...Shit!

A deep blush curled up from my neck and I could feel my face getting hotter with every second I stayed laying there.

"Morning you two, nice to see you're still as close as ever."

I could hear the humor trickle out of her throat and I buried my head in Trunks's chest before realizing what I was doing and jerked back.

"Did you want something?" I could hear the irritation in his voice and I tried to shift out of his arms but he wouldn't let go!

Oh great! This is just great!

"No, I just wanted to let you know I made you two some breakfast if you're hungry."

"We'll be out soon."

Again I tried prying myself out of this embarrassing position, but his grip only tightened and I wanted to scream in frustration and something else that will remain nameless.

"Ok, see you soon."

I heard the door click behind me and I sighed in slight relief. The steady rise and fall of his chest beneath my cheek was entirely too relaxing, clouding my mind from all reason and rational thought. God, how I want this, to wake in his arms for the rest of my life.

I should get up, this teasing relentless warmth is only going to drive me insane and continue to remind me of what I can't have.

"Are you still tired Chibi?" His voice is soft and muffled and I can feel the blush creep up my face again. This means so much to me, I wish it meant as much to Trunks.

What does he think of me now?

"N...No, I'm awake, I'd like to get up now actually."

"Are you sure?" His voice was steady and serious, his breathing low and deep...he's so warm, I don't want to move, does he want me to stay?

I looked up at him, doubt and hope shining in my eyes and I saw the devilish smile on his face. I coked my head to the side and nearly leapt off the bed as his fingers dug playfully into my sides.

I giggled and grabbed the nearest pillow and belted him over the head. He grinned at me and grabbed the pillow he'd slept on and tried to retaliate, but I blocked his attack and use the advantage to grab the flesh around his ribs.

He squealed in surprise and laughed evilly, like he was planning something devilish. I let my eyes follow down to where he was looking and gasped as I saw a single feather laying beside him. I shuffled back from him, mock-fear on my face as he grabbed my foot roughly.

"You're gonna pay for hitting me with that pillow!"

I shrieked as he placed the soft feather to my toes and moved in agonizingly slow movements over the sensitive flesh. I thrashed as he tickled my feet, torturing me in the worst way he could think of...he knows how ticklish my feet are!

"T...hahahah.....Truchan...hahahahahahahaha...sss...stop!" He smirked and raised a slender lavender eyebrow.

"You want me to stop?"

I tried to compose myself but my nerves were leaping as he moved the damn feather over the length of my foot.

"Y..YES!!! STOP!"

He laughed and let my foot go, leaping off the bed as I lay there, giggling and panting and pulling my feet underneath me.

"I'm going to take a shower, you can use it after me." His smile was relaxed, happy and so incredibly cute. My own never faded as I watched him leave and when the door clicked shut I rolled on my stomach, grinning like a chessure cat.

My skin was still tingling and my vision still cloudy as I stared at the closed bathroom door. I felt absolutely giddy, after all it's not everyday you wake up in the arms of a God.

I could hear the water running and my smile widened at the thought of him. I wonder if he'd be shocked if I joined him. I giggled out loud at the expression on his face...he'd be absolutely shocked! His eyes wide with surprise, body speckled with slippery soap, full, luscious lips parted, jaw dropped. Oh and I'd kiss those shocked, plumped lips until they swelled with desire.

Hehehe and he'd let me do it!

I rolled onto my side and hugged my ribs, trying to keep him there for a few more minutes. I never imagined he would feel so good against me. We fit together perfectly, just like I knew we would.

I've never felt so warm.

I woke up a few hours later in a strange room and it took me a while to remember where I was, Trunks was nowhere to be seen and my curiosity got the best of me. I got up and walked towards the kitchen, hearing soft music seeping down the hall. Trunks was still no where to be seen but Jen was standing in front of the sink, humming softly to herself as she did the dishes. She had a kind heart, her warmth and empathy radiated from her and it was hard not to feel comfortable in her presence. I smiled at the beautifully soft sound of her voice and stepped into the kitchen, clearing my throat. She turned around, smiling brightly as she reached for the small radio to turn down the music.

"Good afternoon Goten, or I suppose it's still morning for you."

She pulled out a chair from the kitchen table and patted the seat gently. I smiled and sat down and she turned on the microwave, heating up my breakfast I assume.

"I trust you slept well." She winked at me and I blushed slightly, finding something interesting on the linoleum floor.

"Yeah well..." She laughed good heartedly as she rinsed the last dish in the sink. She grabbed a cloth from the counter, wiping the suds from her hand as she sat in the chair in front of me.

"I know, you guys used to sleep like that when you were kids, Trunks already explained it to me."

Leave it to Trunks to save me from embarrassment from anyone else besides himself.

I shifted a bit, placing my arms on the table and resting my head on them, closing my eyes as I remembered all the times Trunks and I would wake up in a tangle of limbs and blankets.

"Well, we've known each other since we were babies."

"So, did you always try to kiss him as a child?"

My eyes shot open and my face went pale, then beat red with embarrassment. I swallowed hard and grinned shyly as I stared, once again, at that interesting spot on the floor.

"I wasn't..I mean..."

She placed a hand gently on my shoulder, and I looked up at her in utter confusion. She smiled so sweetly, her round baby face looked so innocent yet, you could tell that she wasn't as naive as some might think and you just knew she'd prove it too...if you threatened it out of her. She dug her hands into my hair and tousled the strands between her fingers in a friendly way before patting me on the head.

"I'm just teasing you, sorry I do that a lot."

I grinned at her, noting how motherly she seemed as the microwave beeped and she skipped towards it, pulling out the plate and placing it in front of me.

I looked down at the food and my stomach growled loudly. I was a little nervous to eat in front of someone new, I was known for being a messy eater.

"Don't worry, Trunks warned me about your eating habits, I'm not one to judge."

The man thinks of everything!

"Where is Trunks anyway?" I asked, stuffing my face.

"He went to go get Ashleigh, she called and deman....I mean asked Trunks to go get her. You're meeting her today remember."

I nearly choked on my food. I completely forgot about her....well there goes any possibility of having a good day. My eating slowed considerably, a frown grazing my face as I stared at the clock, praying to Dende that Trunks just left.

"How long ago did he leave?"

Her shoulders seemed to tense as she glanced at the clock on the pale blue wall.

"About an hour ago, they should be here any minute." Her voice sounded irritated and I raised a curious eyebrow.

"I take it you're not too thrilled about it."

She gave me a lopsided grin and placed a glass of orange juice next to my plate.

" don't want to give you a bad impression of her."

"Too late." I mumbled, shoving the last forkfull into my mouth.

"Well you'll see for yourself soon enough."

As if on cue, the front door pushed open and the object on my affections stepped inside; shoulders slightly slumped and a slight grimace expression lining his usual noble face.

I stood up, immediately concerned as to what could turn that proud Prince into a defeated slave, and then she walked through the door.

Her perfect brown hair flowed obediently down her perfectly oval face, grazing her perfectly pale shoulders. Her stunning hazel eyes flashed with irritation as she wriggled her perfectly small nose and parted her perfectly painted lips. Her thin body swayed teasingly over to Trunks, handing him her coat and purse, flashing her salon-style nails and slender fingers. She kicked off her high heel shoes revealing her perfectly petite feet and her cutesy little painted toes.

The sight of her made me sick!

She slithered passed Trunks, who was hanging her perfectly small fur coat and little hand purse, and walked towards me.

Jen, sensing my agitation, stepped beside me and plastered on an obviously fake smile.

"Hey Ashleigh, how's it going?"

Ashleigh turned at the mention of her name and glared hotly at Jen. I gulped back a gasp at how mean she really looked.

"Hmph! I'd be better if Trunks was out of here and living with me, you are remembering to keep your hands off my property right?"

Jen smirked, unfazed by this disgusting display of perceived dominance and winked at me.

"Actually not this time, mainly because somebody beat me to it."

I froze at the demonistic blaze in her eyes and I didn't know whether to run or cross myself.

Her voice was the most ear splitting, annoying noise I've ever heard and I never thought Trunks's name would ever sound so horrible!

"TTTTRRRRRRUUUUUUNNNNNKKKKKKSSSSSS!! What is she talking about?"

God, even her pout was perfect.

Trunks sighed in defeat and feigned concern as he walked up to her and put his arm around her waist, pulling her lovingly to him.

"She didn't mean anything honey, only that we have a guest."

His smile brightened a bit and he looked at me in a friendly manner. He cleared the distance between us in a light brush of air and threw a lazy arm around my shoulders. His jaw was set tightly and I could see the tension building in his eyes as he spoke.

"Ashleigh, darling...this is Goten."

Her muddy eyes narrowed as she scanned me, checking every inch of my body, for what, who knows!

Her lips parted in a sweet smile and her pearly white teeth glistened in the dull light of the kitchen.

"So this is Goten...I've heard so much about you, you're all my muffin talks about."

"Well I've heard a lot about you too, it's so nice to finally meet you."

Her squeal was deafening as she threw her arms around me and hugged me enthusiastically. I was completely shocked but raised my arms and wrapped them warily around her waist. She pulled back and smiled teasingly. I cleared my throat as I saw Jen standing in the hall way behind Ashleigh and making gagging noises. I suppressed a chuckle as Trunks shot her a glare and she simply smiled a very toothy smile.

His gaze fell upon me and I knew by the way he was staring at me that he knew I was lying. He knew he barely told me jack about her, and he knew she was making me uncomfortable.

We stood there in silence, Ashleigh had long since removed herself from me and was playing idly with the hem of Trunks's jacket. The only noise in the room was the incessant ticking of the wall clock, and Ashleigh's soft coos as she smiled up at Trunks. His arm had some how found it's way back around my shoulders and I desperately tried not to focus on how good he smelt, and how warm his body was tucked against mine...like this morning.

Dammit! Someone say something quick!

"Well I'm off to meet the guys, we're going shopping and stuff today." Jen broke through, slicing a small slip in the obvious jello of tension that had enveloped the room.

I'm going to have to thank her for this one.

"Goten, would you like to come?"

A BIG thank you!

I looked up at Trunks who almost looked relieved at Jen's suggestion and I tried not to take it personally.

Dammit!

My heart sank at how he seemed to relax and I abruptly walked towards Jen, and standing beside her, I gave Trunks an irritated smile.

"Yeah, I still want to see some of the city."

Jen smiled again and quickly grabbed her keys and bag before throwing on her jacket.

"Don't worry Trunksy, I'll have him back in one piece."

Ashleigh growled under her breath and, had it not been for my Saiyan heritage, I wouldn't have heard a thing. Trunks tightened his gripped around her and she smiled cheerfully up at him.

Jen already had my coat and shoes in front of me and I took the hint, throwing them on quickly and following Jen out the door.

"See ya later Truchan!"

"Bye Trunksy!"

I could almost feel the glare on my back as I closed the door and I leaned against it in slight relief.

Jen smiled and put a friendly hand on my shoulder.

"Now do you see what I mean?"

I nodded and sighed, pushing myself off the door as Ashleigh's voice began vibrating the wood. Jen reached in her bag and pulled out a small cell phone, turned it on and expertly dialed an unfamiliar number.

"Hey," her voice chimes, "get the guys together, we're going out...Goten's with me...Did you think she wouldn't....he's irritated but that's why we're gonna show him the city....ok see you in 10." With a swift move of her finger she ended her conversation and placed the phone back in her denim, blue bag.

I looked at her questioningly as we stepped into the elevator.

"I thought you were already going to meet your friends...why did you call them?"

She pressed the small button with a black letter 'M' stamped on it and the elevator began its slow plunge.

"I didn't think I was that good an actress." She made a funny looking pose and I raised an eyebrow, utterly confused. Her face fell with a serious thud and her arms dropped to her sides.

"Trunks doesn't like anyone around when he's with Ashleigh."

The blood drained from my face, simply gaining momentum as my whole body went red with rage.

"WHAT! Why?" The anger in my voice must've been more obvious then I thought because she looked like a deer in the headlights.

I took a deep breath and let the muscles in my face relax a bit more.

"Sorry it's just...it's not like Trunks to be so...well submissive."

Jen let out a sigh and I could see the resin of irritation still on her face.

"It was by her request that I not be around, he felt bad about it...he didn't even want to mention it but she pushed and whined and pushed and whined. I remember hearing one of their conversations over the phone. No I wasn't eavesdropping, I was going to call Johanna to go out for coffee. I picked up the phone and she was screeching about him living with me and me being out to get him and all that nonsense. He said that wasn't true and I almost screamed when she said 'Trunks if you don't tell her to leave when I'm around...' Don't think twice about it Goten, it was a threat. He gave in and asked me...I felt so bad for the guy that I didn't make a fuss about it. She's got him so whipped."

"So you're not out to get him."

Jen laughed loudly, her voice dulling the irritating 'dings' of the elevator as it plunged to the ground.

"Oh hell no! Trunks is a good friend of mine, I mean, I'm not going to say he isn't handsome...he's damn good looking actually, but I like him more as a friend then anything."

"Then why is Ashleigh kicking up a big stink about it then?"

"Because she's possessive, and completely unreasonable. She thinks that because I've been living with him for so long that he has more affections towards me then her or something stupid like that. She's the most infuriating woman I've ever met."

I bit my bottom lip as I thought about Ashleigh. She sounds a lot like my mother, and Dende knows how long I can put up with another Chichi running around.

"She's got an ego to boot too."

Jen looked at me, startled, then patted me on the back and laughed good heartedly before the elevator door swung open and we headed into the city.

By the time Jen and I got home my feet were so sore I thought I'd need a crow bar to get my shoes off. The sun had long set and I was still feeling the effects of my jet leg; In other words, I was wired as hyena on coffee, even after my city expedition.

Turns out, when Jen said 'shopping and stuff.' she meant going to the mall and having coffee (or pop in their case) with the guys for 3 hours before going to the toy store and playing with the action figures. She wasn't like the girls that flock around me back home. She's not superficial, she'd rather walk then anything, she has a lot of really deep insights to things (like the reason Trunks is getting married is to please Bulma)...although sometimes she comes off as being really immature and stupid, and the most important thing of all, she doesn't hit on me! One of the reasons I don't like hanging around woman in the first place is because they hit on me like a baseball game!

The five of them together are a sight that's for sure. You could hear them a mile away! Though it's usually Jen and Venessa who dominate the conversation and they talk a lot. And I'm not talking about your regular 'had a lot to say during a conversation.' I'm talking about 'there is no uncomfortable silences because they don't stop!' The things they talk about range from television to deep political issues (Venessa's forte)...I honestly never thought the world was in such crisis!

They are the funniest bunch of people I've ever known! Johanna is so good with the snappy comebacks I thought I'd bust a gut! Venessa always sounds so serious it's hard to tell when she's being sarcastic and Dende knows she's dripping with it! Kelly is so creative it's amazing! She runs through the most ridiculous scenarios...like what would happen to us in a different time line, or what character each person would be from the Simpsons. From what I could tell, each character fit perfectly.

Sarah and Jen have some alternate personalities (all in good fun) called Super Pierre and Super Joe...who, from what I could tell, are two pimps looking unsuccessfully for recruits. They speak in really bad French and Spanish accents which irritates Venessa to the point where that vein in her neck might explode. Jen says she does it just to get a rise out of her, I'd believe it.

If I could describe them in one word it would simply be fun. They can have a good time no matter where they are and I had a good time with them.

There were no lights on when we walked into the apartment but I could feel Trunks's energy pulsing softly with his heart beat. I kicked off my shoes and whispered a quiet 'goodnight' to Jen as she brushed passed me, closing her door with a pleasant click. I hung up my coat with a heavy sigh and walked, shoulders slumped, towards my room. Everything was so different here, and I liked it for the most part. I liked the energy that pounded on my metabolism, making me want to run, play and fly through the air like a kite. I liked the people, who didn't seem as bothered by minor differences in others as did the people in any smaller community. I liked how there were trees on every street, adding a little natural brilliance to the already towering, man-made structures that caught your eyes with their height, and I liked how utterly at home I felt with every street I walked down. I wish Trunks had been there to share it with me.

I stopped in front of his door and I could feel the sting of cold tears freezing my alerted eyes and I immediately blinked them away. I raised a limp hand and placed my palm flat against its cool surface.

Why Trunks? Why do you have to work to make others happy? When is it your turn? When is it mine?

I closed my eyes and pushed away from the door, turned and walked into my room, closing the door behind me.