Vegeta bolted awake and looked at the clock. It was 2:30 in the morning. He'd felt his son's ki go way up and then back down. Had he only imagined it? There was a strange feeling in the pit of his stomach. Perhaps the boy had had a nightmare and had gone super sayain for a moment. Vegeta laid back down, but something was tugging at him. Something didn't seem right. Perhaps he should just look in on his son real quickly. It would at least give him peace of mind so he could go back to sleep.
Slowly he opened the door and stuck his head in. Confused he pushed it all the
way open and looked astonished at the empty bed. He pulled the covers back. Sure enough they were gone. Vegeta felt as if he'd been punched hard in the gut by Kakarot, or someone even stronger. His breath seemed to leave him and he felt a fear unlike any he'd ever felt before. Trunks was gone, and so was Goten. Vegeta stood, wide eyed for a few seconds, unable to move. He had to get a grip on himself. Maybe they'd just gotten up and gone to get a drink. Somehow he knew that wasn't true, but he searched the house for his son's ki anyway. It was nowhere.
Suddenly it hit him. The brief rise in his son's ki and then its return to sleep...someone must have kidnaped him, it was the only explanation. Surely if Trunks had awaken to a stranger his ki would have reacted and he would have tried to fight. It had shot back down so quickly...he'd been knocked out. Vegeta concentrated, searching for the ki of both boys. There they were! Heading away from the house along with someone much stronger than his son, but not him. Immediately Vegeta flew out the window, following the energy he'd felt. Nobody took his son away and lived! Now they were doomed. He'd felt their ki and he would hunt it down whether he recovered his son in peace or not! That *jerk* had better not hurt Trunks in any way either, or his death would be ten times more painful. Vegeta would draw it out.
He was making no headway on this being. Whoever or whatever it was, it was VERY fast. Vegeta was actually falling farther behind. He tried to push himself harder but he was already moving as fast as he could. As long as he kept tract of it's ki, though, he'd be able to find it. And then he'd make it pay. He was running on pure adrenaline now.
Horrible thoughts were flooding his mind and he tried hard to push away this foreign feeling of immense worry and terror. This was his only son. His LEGACY! And even if he HAD more children, Trunks would always be his first born. He'd always be the one that softened him, therefore making him tougher. He would always be the one that had taught Vegeta to love in a way he'd never before known. He couldn't let him down now! He hadn't lived up to his promise to be a better father! He was just beginning to know what it MEANT this very evening!
* * * * *
Trunks awoke, his head throbbing, in some sort of prison cell. He sat up, rubbing his head and looked around. He felt panic when he realised this place was foreign and he was surrounded by three walls and bars replacing the fourth wall. Quickly he went to the bars and tried to bend them. They wouldn't budge...not even when he went super sayain. He tried punching the wall, then he blasted them. Still, there wasn't even a dent. Angered Trunks screamed and let out a large blast of energy from within, then fell to the floor, having expended almost all his energy. This place was sayain proof! Even that hadn't done a thing. Now he was scared. How could he get out of here?
* * * * *
Vegeta felt his son's ki as he woke up. He expended a large amount of energy, then his ki dropped down again. Vegeta drew in a deep breath and his heart skipped a beat. He concentrated, then let out the breath he was holding. No, his son was still alive, his energy was just drained. He hadn't felt the ki of the other being. Trunks must have been contained somewhere and tried to break free but was unable.
Vegeta was gaining now. His head throbbed and he felt weak inside, yet there was a physical energy pulsating through him like none he'd ever felt before. There were a lot of emotions unfamiliar to him. He hadn't allowed himself to feel emotions, but now he was unable to stop them. This was a fear he'd never known. As a matter of fact, this was basically his worst nightmares coming into existance! He knew he loved his son, but until now he really hadn't known the full extent to which he did. Now he knew. He would give ANYTHING for that child. He'd already given his life once for him, but somehow he felt even stronger this time. Even more protective and determined...and horrified. Maybe that was it. Majin Buu never directly threatened Trunks' life. Whoever had him now DID and still WAS.
Anger was welling up inside him again. Who was this that had the nerve to directly threaten his son's life? Nobody did such a thing! Not to the son of the Prince of
all sayains! Not to ANYONE Vegeta cared about! This entity would pay, DEARLY! He was almost there now. "Hang on Trunks, I'm almost there."
* * * * *
Trunks sat in the middle of the cell, eyes-wide. Nothing he'd tried had worked and he had no idea where he was. Now he knew it was bad though because nothing ordinary, and most things extraordinary couldn't contain him. This place was beyond belief and whoever had put him here was obviously very strong. That concept scared him. Careful Trunks gathered enough energy to push himself to the far corner of the cell. He sat with his knees tucked to his chest. Somehow that possition gave him comfort. He didn't know why.
Nobody was in sight and Trunks couldn't hear a single sound. 'I'm not afraid!' Trunks told himself. A lump was forming in his throat and tears were forming in the corners of his eyes, but he was fighting not to let them fall. 'My Dad will be here soon.' He thought about it. His Dad had been furious at him almost all night. What if he didn't come? What if Vegeta was glad he'd been taken? Then he'd be stuck there forever! A few drops of water splashed down his face. 'No, I'll fight...I can fight,' Trunks argued in his head, still trying to force the ever stronger force of tears back. He'd never felt so scared and alone in his life. He was even more afraid of being abandoned by Vegeta than of this unfamiliar place.
'What about that story?' Trunks' inner voice spoke to him. 'About the king and his son and the evil monster? That king was Vegeta and you're his son. Don't you know that?' Trunks was almost surprised by his own thoughts. 'That can't be...' 'Yes it can...the king's son went around breaking things and he got punished for it, just like you. But the king valued him highly. Vegeta will come for you.' 'No, he valued him BEFORE he broke everything.' 'You know that's not true.' "Shut up!" Trunks stood, shaking his head. His own mixed emotions were driving him crazy and confusing him. He was suddenly embarrassed when he realised he'd spoken out loud and slowly slipped
back down on the floor. This time he cried, unable to hold back.
"What's the matter? Don't you like it here?" Trunks' head shot up at the voice he'd heard. A tall, burly-looking man stood in front of the cell. Quickly he wiped the tears from his face and glared, but the man only chuckled. "Such confidence for a little boy. You think you can beat me don't you?" Trunks only glared at him and he chuckled. "Go ahead, take a shot if you like," he stood against the cell door where Trunks could punch him if he wanted, but Trunks didn't move. "Oh, I see, you're chicken."
That was it. Trunks powered to super sayain and punched the man with all his might, but the man hardly flinched, then he punched Trunks square in the gut. Trunks groaned and doubled over, squinting his eyes. His breath was knocked out of him.
"AARRGGHHH!" Vegeta punched through the opposite wall and rammed himself into the being that had just hit his child. He'd been right outside the building when he'd felt the blow to his son's ki.
Trunks could hear his father, but his breath was just returning to him and he was in too much pain to make any response. He moaned again as tears slowly fell from his eyes. He couldn't sit up.
"All right you stinking freak!" Vegeta yelled.
The man had landed halfway across the room and was surprised. He hadn't expected Vegeta to come so soon. In fact, he wasn't sure he would come at all.
"You lay one danged finger on MY son and I KILL you!" Vegeta flew at him again. The two went into an all out battle. They were amazingly matched, thus far.
Suddenly, out of nowhere, the man threw a blast at Trunks.
"NO!" Vegeta quickly jumped in front of it to block, but it was very powerful and he couldn't deflect the entire thing. He'd only weakened it when he was thrown away and what was left slammed into Trunks, knocking him onto his back on the other side of the cell. "TRUNKS!" Vegeta wanted to get inside the cell and see if his child was alive, but he knew he had to take care of this *jerk* first.
"Vegeta!" Goku suddenly appeared, rather frantic, through the hole Vegeta had made upon his entrance.
Seeing the man, Goku immediately jumped into the fight. Vegeta was going all out and showing no mercy. Goku could hardly do a thing. Both of them formed blasts and the man was unable to block them. There wasn't a trace of him left.
"Where's Goten?" Goku asked.
"I don't know! Search for his ki!" Vegeta scowled deeply as he fought to bend the bars of Trunks' cell.
"Goten!" Goku called, flying after the ki he felt to be his son.
"Trunks...," Vegeta lifted the lifeless body into his arms. His heart was still beating. He'd only been knocked unconscious. Vegeta felt a terrible tugging on his heart. Something that was forming a huge lump in his throat and causing his eyes to become wet. He fought the feeling hard. He didn't remember if he'd EVER cried before, but he certainly wasn't going to start now.
"I'm taking Goten home," Goku suddenly reappeared with his son in his arms, unconscious as well. He quickly noticed the look on Vegeta's face. "Is Trunks ok?"
"Yes, he's fine, take your boy and leave, Kakarot," Vegeta's voice wasn't as harsh as usual.
Goku hesitated for a moment, then flew off. Vegeta sat on the floor, trying to gain enough composure and strength to go home. It was taking all he had to fight these feelings he was having. He'd never known emotion could be so difficult to control. Finally he stood, the young boy in his arms and took off. For the first time he noticed how small he was. His hands and feet were so tiny. Three of his hands could fit in Vegeta's. His arms and legs were so short and slim too. Trunks was very strong, but he trully was a young child. VEGETA'S young child.
Carefully he placed him on the couch and covered him with a blanket, then he kneeled beside him for a moment. Sweat was beginning to pour down his tiny face and his eyes were scrunching in his unconsciousness. Then his breathing got quicker and he began whimpering and squirming. Vegeta reached out and touched his face, then Trunks shot straight up with a startled cry and looked around. Vegeta had never seen him look so frightened.
"It's ok, Trunks, you're home. You're safe," he assured.
Trunks turned and looked at him for a few seconds, letting his words sink in. His breathing slowly returned to normal and he laid back down.
"Go back to sleep," Vegeta pulled the blanket back over him.
Slowly Trunks closed his eyes. Vegeta stayed, watching him until he was sure he was asleep again, then he went into the kitchen where he could still keep an eye on his son and began cleaning it. Goku was sure to tell Chichi what had happened, and Chichi would tell Bulma. Bulma didn't need a horrible mess in the kitchen to make her any angrier. She would already be frantic and fuming.
It took him about an hour and then he sat down on a chair at the bar and rested his forehead in the palm of his hand, closing his eyes. His nerves were shot and he still was feeling a horrible ache somewhere inside. His son could have easily been killed that night. He could have been dead. What would he have done without Trunks? Could he even continue living? A few tears escaped his eyes, then he pushed them back down. What was wrong with him? The events were over and Trunks was safe and sleeping on the couch. He looked up as he heard the door of the refridgerator open and saw his child looking up at the milk.
Trunks had snuck quietly past his Dad, unsure of how he would react. He needed something to drink. He was having trouble sleeping now and his stomach hurt, as did his head and his backside. The milk was on the top shelf, almost out of his reach. Trunks stood on the tips of his toes and reached for it, but a hand reached over his head and pulled it out. Startled Trunks turned to see his father standing behind him, milk in hand. Neiter of them said a word. Vegeta retreated back to the bar and set the milk down in front of him. Trunks just stood, unsure of what to do. He was thirsty, but it appeared his father wanted the milk.
"Come here, son," Vegeta's voice was low and gentler than normal. It was time to stop holding back and to start keeping the promise he'd made. Trunks meant everything to him and as mushy as it was, it was time he start showing that.
Trunks hesistated, then slowly walked toward his father. Had he done something wrong again? His Dad didn't sound angry, but what else could he possibly want but to lecture him in some way? He was astonished when Vegeta reached down and lifted him onto his lap, handing him the milk. Trunks felt uneasy and hesistated before drinking the entire carton. What was wrong with his father? The only other time he'd ever held him was before he'd died and right after he'd returned.
Suddenly Trunks got a sinking feeling. "Dad...you're not going to die again are you?"
Vegeta's eyes widened. It took him a few minutes to discern why his son would ask such a thing. A small pain ran through his body as he realized the only time he'd held Trunks was before he died. That's how out of the ordinary it was. "No, son."
There was silence again. Trunks felt very insecure and self-conscious. "Dad..."
"Yes?"
"...did you mean what you said?"
"When?"
"...before Majin Buu..."
Vegeta thought for a second. What had he said? That he was proud of his son. Was that it? Trunks didn't know if he meant it? Obviously he'd been an awful father if his son didn't even know whether to believe what he said or not! Vegeta lifted Trunks onto the counter so they could have eye contact, keeping his hands on his rib cage. His son needed to KNOW he meant every word he was about to say. "Of course I meant it Trunks."
Trunks looked happy for a split second, then he lowered his head, discouraged. "Even after all the things I did tonight?" his voice was small and there was no hope in it.
Vegeta forced his face up. "Listen to me, Trunks. I love you, son, and I will always be proud of you. No matter what you've done, or what you'll do in the future, I will always, ALWAYS love you, do you understand? NOTHING will ever change that."
Trunks was astounded. He didn't know if he'd really heard those words come from his father or if he'd only imagined it.
"Answer me, Trunks, do you understand?"
Trunks nodded ever so slightly and Vegeta pulled him back into his lap, cradling him almost like a baby and forcing his head against his shoulder. "Promise you won't tell anyone I told you this...Promise."
"I promise," Trunks was confused. If this was a dream, it was the best one he'd ever had.
Vegeta rocked slightly without even knowing it. Trunks kept waiting for him to let go, but he didn't. After awhile he began to relax, feeling happier than he ever had in his entire life. A small smile came over his face and he closed his eyes, relaxing his head against his father's strong shoulder. He felt secure. He felt LOVED. He put a small arm around his father's waist.
Vegeta looked down and smiled. It was such an extraordinary thing for him to hold his son, but he liked it. It brought him peace and warmth he'd never felt before. The boy wasn't afraid of him anymore. He wasn't tense. This tiny being with Vegeta's own blood running through his body really trusted him now. He felt as if he were holding a piece of himself and he didn't want that feeling to ever end.
Trunks slowly drifted off to sleep. Vegeta slowly stood, careful not to wake him, and went upstairs to his and Bulma's room. Tonight he would keep Trunks with him. He He didn't want to take his eyes off of him again. Gently he placed him on the bed and pulled the covers up to his neck. Then he brushed the hair out of his eyes and kissed his forehead. As long as nobody saw him, nobody could know he'd developed such a soft spot in his heart.
He climbed in the bed, next to Trunks, and listened to his breath as he slowly fell asleep.
* * * * *
When he woke, the sleepies in Trunks' eyes prevented him from seeing where he was. Quickly he remembered the wonderful dream he'd had and he jumped out of his bed, which seemed bigger for some reason and started running toward the door. He had to tell his mother about it!
"Mom! Mom, I had the best dream in the world last night! Dad...," he started, then stopped as he reached the doorway, realizing he was already in his parents' room.
Trunks' yelling had instantly waken Vegeta. "Trunks...you promised not to tell...," he smirked, reminding his child.
Trunks turned to see his father proped up on one arm. He looked at him in surprise. "You mean...it wasn't a dream...?"
"No, son, I really said it. And I MEANT it too," Vegeta's smirk grew.
Trunks couldn't hold back the giant smile forming on his face. His father loved him, he really DID! Vegeta held out an arm to him and Trunks was ecstatic to run into his father's embrace.
"Trunks, I need to say something..."
Trunks backed away, just a tad nervous. His father wasn't going to say he'd lied was he?
"I promise from now on I'm going to spend more time with you...other than training. I need you to help me keep that promise, ok?"
Trunks smiled again. "Sure Dad, ok!"
Vegeta smiled as well, then he wiped it away. Enough of this mush! "Now go clean up your room before your mother gets home and has a fit!"
Trunks laughed and ran off. "Ok, Dad."
* * * * *
It was in the late afternoon that Bulma finally returned home. The house looked a lot cleaner than she'd expected. "Trunks, I'm back...did your father behave?" she called.
Trunks came running in the room and hugged her. "Hi, Mom." He was happier than she'd ever seen him.
"Well!" Bulma smiled, surprised. "You sure are cheerful! What's gotten into you? Where's Goten?"
"Oh," Trunks hadn't thought about it. "I guess he went home."
"Where's your father?"
"I don't know...probably in the gravity chamber. I'll get him," Trunks ran off before Bulma could object. She decided to follow him and make sure Vegeta didn't react too adversely. Trunks had already gone in by the time she got to the door.
"Hey Dad, will you take me to the park?" Trunks asked.
"No, I'm training," Vegeta's answer was quick and gruff.
Trunks' face fell. "Oh, ok," he turned to leave.
Vegeta turned, hearing the disapointment in his son's voice. He'd almost forgotten what he'd said earlier. "Trunks..."
Trunks turned, a small hint of hope on his face.
"Train with me for an hour, then I'll take you. Deal?"
Trunks smiled ear to ear.
Vegeta smirked. "I thought I told you to hold me to that promise, son...," he started punching invisable enemies again.
"I guess it'll take some getting used to," Trunks shrugged. "Oh, Mom's home. She wants to see you."
Vegeta looked to the door. "She didn't see the bathroom door or the car yet did she?"
"I don't think so..."
"We'd better hope not," Vegeta smirked and went to the door, surprised to see Bulma right outside.
"What's this about the car and the door?" Bulma asked.
"It's nothing. Just a little accident. I'll fix it."
"Vegeta...," Bulma looked up at him, confused. "I don't know what it is you've done, but Trunks has never been so happy in his life. Did you guys have a good night?"
"It all ended all right," Vegeta answered, not disclosing any more details.
Bulma smiled. "Well whatever you did, keep it up!" she put an arm around him. Vegeta returned the gesture and the two kissed.
THE END
Slowly he opened the door and stuck his head in. Confused he pushed it all the
way open and looked astonished at the empty bed. He pulled the covers back. Sure enough they were gone. Vegeta felt as if he'd been punched hard in the gut by Kakarot, or someone even stronger. His breath seemed to leave him and he felt a fear unlike any he'd ever felt before. Trunks was gone, and so was Goten. Vegeta stood, wide eyed for a few seconds, unable to move. He had to get a grip on himself. Maybe they'd just gotten up and gone to get a drink. Somehow he knew that wasn't true, but he searched the house for his son's ki anyway. It was nowhere.
Suddenly it hit him. The brief rise in his son's ki and then its return to sleep...someone must have kidnaped him, it was the only explanation. Surely if Trunks had awaken to a stranger his ki would have reacted and he would have tried to fight. It had shot back down so quickly...he'd been knocked out. Vegeta concentrated, searching for the ki of both boys. There they were! Heading away from the house along with someone much stronger than his son, but not him. Immediately Vegeta flew out the window, following the energy he'd felt. Nobody took his son away and lived! Now they were doomed. He'd felt their ki and he would hunt it down whether he recovered his son in peace or not! That *jerk* had better not hurt Trunks in any way either, or his death would be ten times more painful. Vegeta would draw it out.
He was making no headway on this being. Whoever or whatever it was, it was VERY fast. Vegeta was actually falling farther behind. He tried to push himself harder but he was already moving as fast as he could. As long as he kept tract of it's ki, though, he'd be able to find it. And then he'd make it pay. He was running on pure adrenaline now.
Horrible thoughts were flooding his mind and he tried hard to push away this foreign feeling of immense worry and terror. This was his only son. His LEGACY! And even if he HAD more children, Trunks would always be his first born. He'd always be the one that softened him, therefore making him tougher. He would always be the one that had taught Vegeta to love in a way he'd never before known. He couldn't let him down now! He hadn't lived up to his promise to be a better father! He was just beginning to know what it MEANT this very evening!
* * * * *
Trunks awoke, his head throbbing, in some sort of prison cell. He sat up, rubbing his head and looked around. He felt panic when he realised this place was foreign and he was surrounded by three walls and bars replacing the fourth wall. Quickly he went to the bars and tried to bend them. They wouldn't budge...not even when he went super sayain. He tried punching the wall, then he blasted them. Still, there wasn't even a dent. Angered Trunks screamed and let out a large blast of energy from within, then fell to the floor, having expended almost all his energy. This place was sayain proof! Even that hadn't done a thing. Now he was scared. How could he get out of here?
* * * * *
Vegeta felt his son's ki as he woke up. He expended a large amount of energy, then his ki dropped down again. Vegeta drew in a deep breath and his heart skipped a beat. He concentrated, then let out the breath he was holding. No, his son was still alive, his energy was just drained. He hadn't felt the ki of the other being. Trunks must have been contained somewhere and tried to break free but was unable.
Vegeta was gaining now. His head throbbed and he felt weak inside, yet there was a physical energy pulsating through him like none he'd ever felt before. There were a lot of emotions unfamiliar to him. He hadn't allowed himself to feel emotions, but now he was unable to stop them. This was a fear he'd never known. As a matter of fact, this was basically his worst nightmares coming into existance! He knew he loved his son, but until now he really hadn't known the full extent to which he did. Now he knew. He would give ANYTHING for that child. He'd already given his life once for him, but somehow he felt even stronger this time. Even more protective and determined...and horrified. Maybe that was it. Majin Buu never directly threatened Trunks' life. Whoever had him now DID and still WAS.
Anger was welling up inside him again. Who was this that had the nerve to directly threaten his son's life? Nobody did such a thing! Not to the son of the Prince of
all sayains! Not to ANYONE Vegeta cared about! This entity would pay, DEARLY! He was almost there now. "Hang on Trunks, I'm almost there."
* * * * *
Trunks sat in the middle of the cell, eyes-wide. Nothing he'd tried had worked and he had no idea where he was. Now he knew it was bad though because nothing ordinary, and most things extraordinary couldn't contain him. This place was beyond belief and whoever had put him here was obviously very strong. That concept scared him. Careful Trunks gathered enough energy to push himself to the far corner of the cell. He sat with his knees tucked to his chest. Somehow that possition gave him comfort. He didn't know why.
Nobody was in sight and Trunks couldn't hear a single sound. 'I'm not afraid!' Trunks told himself. A lump was forming in his throat and tears were forming in the corners of his eyes, but he was fighting not to let them fall. 'My Dad will be here soon.' He thought about it. His Dad had been furious at him almost all night. What if he didn't come? What if Vegeta was glad he'd been taken? Then he'd be stuck there forever! A few drops of water splashed down his face. 'No, I'll fight...I can fight,' Trunks argued in his head, still trying to force the ever stronger force of tears back. He'd never felt so scared and alone in his life. He was even more afraid of being abandoned by Vegeta than of this unfamiliar place.
'What about that story?' Trunks' inner voice spoke to him. 'About the king and his son and the evil monster? That king was Vegeta and you're his son. Don't you know that?' Trunks was almost surprised by his own thoughts. 'That can't be...' 'Yes it can...the king's son went around breaking things and he got punished for it, just like you. But the king valued him highly. Vegeta will come for you.' 'No, he valued him BEFORE he broke everything.' 'You know that's not true.' "Shut up!" Trunks stood, shaking his head. His own mixed emotions were driving him crazy and confusing him. He was suddenly embarrassed when he realised he'd spoken out loud and slowly slipped
back down on the floor. This time he cried, unable to hold back.
"What's the matter? Don't you like it here?" Trunks' head shot up at the voice he'd heard. A tall, burly-looking man stood in front of the cell. Quickly he wiped the tears from his face and glared, but the man only chuckled. "Such confidence for a little boy. You think you can beat me don't you?" Trunks only glared at him and he chuckled. "Go ahead, take a shot if you like," he stood against the cell door where Trunks could punch him if he wanted, but Trunks didn't move. "Oh, I see, you're chicken."
That was it. Trunks powered to super sayain and punched the man with all his might, but the man hardly flinched, then he punched Trunks square in the gut. Trunks groaned and doubled over, squinting his eyes. His breath was knocked out of him.
"AARRGGHHH!" Vegeta punched through the opposite wall and rammed himself into the being that had just hit his child. He'd been right outside the building when he'd felt the blow to his son's ki.
Trunks could hear his father, but his breath was just returning to him and he was in too much pain to make any response. He moaned again as tears slowly fell from his eyes. He couldn't sit up.
"All right you stinking freak!" Vegeta yelled.
The man had landed halfway across the room and was surprised. He hadn't expected Vegeta to come so soon. In fact, he wasn't sure he would come at all.
"You lay one danged finger on MY son and I KILL you!" Vegeta flew at him again. The two went into an all out battle. They were amazingly matched, thus far.
Suddenly, out of nowhere, the man threw a blast at Trunks.
"NO!" Vegeta quickly jumped in front of it to block, but it was very powerful and he couldn't deflect the entire thing. He'd only weakened it when he was thrown away and what was left slammed into Trunks, knocking him onto his back on the other side of the cell. "TRUNKS!" Vegeta wanted to get inside the cell and see if his child was alive, but he knew he had to take care of this *jerk* first.
"Vegeta!" Goku suddenly appeared, rather frantic, through the hole Vegeta had made upon his entrance.
Seeing the man, Goku immediately jumped into the fight. Vegeta was going all out and showing no mercy. Goku could hardly do a thing. Both of them formed blasts and the man was unable to block them. There wasn't a trace of him left.
"Where's Goten?" Goku asked.
"I don't know! Search for his ki!" Vegeta scowled deeply as he fought to bend the bars of Trunks' cell.
"Goten!" Goku called, flying after the ki he felt to be his son.
"Trunks...," Vegeta lifted the lifeless body into his arms. His heart was still beating. He'd only been knocked unconscious. Vegeta felt a terrible tugging on his heart. Something that was forming a huge lump in his throat and causing his eyes to become wet. He fought the feeling hard. He didn't remember if he'd EVER cried before, but he certainly wasn't going to start now.
"I'm taking Goten home," Goku suddenly reappeared with his son in his arms, unconscious as well. He quickly noticed the look on Vegeta's face. "Is Trunks ok?"
"Yes, he's fine, take your boy and leave, Kakarot," Vegeta's voice wasn't as harsh as usual.
Goku hesitated for a moment, then flew off. Vegeta sat on the floor, trying to gain enough composure and strength to go home. It was taking all he had to fight these feelings he was having. He'd never known emotion could be so difficult to control. Finally he stood, the young boy in his arms and took off. For the first time he noticed how small he was. His hands and feet were so tiny. Three of his hands could fit in Vegeta's. His arms and legs were so short and slim too. Trunks was very strong, but he trully was a young child. VEGETA'S young child.
Carefully he placed him on the couch and covered him with a blanket, then he kneeled beside him for a moment. Sweat was beginning to pour down his tiny face and his eyes were scrunching in his unconsciousness. Then his breathing got quicker and he began whimpering and squirming. Vegeta reached out and touched his face, then Trunks shot straight up with a startled cry and looked around. Vegeta had never seen him look so frightened.
"It's ok, Trunks, you're home. You're safe," he assured.
Trunks turned and looked at him for a few seconds, letting his words sink in. His breathing slowly returned to normal and he laid back down.
"Go back to sleep," Vegeta pulled the blanket back over him.
Slowly Trunks closed his eyes. Vegeta stayed, watching him until he was sure he was asleep again, then he went into the kitchen where he could still keep an eye on his son and began cleaning it. Goku was sure to tell Chichi what had happened, and Chichi would tell Bulma. Bulma didn't need a horrible mess in the kitchen to make her any angrier. She would already be frantic and fuming.
It took him about an hour and then he sat down on a chair at the bar and rested his forehead in the palm of his hand, closing his eyes. His nerves were shot and he still was feeling a horrible ache somewhere inside. His son could have easily been killed that night. He could have been dead. What would he have done without Trunks? Could he even continue living? A few tears escaped his eyes, then he pushed them back down. What was wrong with him? The events were over and Trunks was safe and sleeping on the couch. He looked up as he heard the door of the refridgerator open and saw his child looking up at the milk.
Trunks had snuck quietly past his Dad, unsure of how he would react. He needed something to drink. He was having trouble sleeping now and his stomach hurt, as did his head and his backside. The milk was on the top shelf, almost out of his reach. Trunks stood on the tips of his toes and reached for it, but a hand reached over his head and pulled it out. Startled Trunks turned to see his father standing behind him, milk in hand. Neiter of them said a word. Vegeta retreated back to the bar and set the milk down in front of him. Trunks just stood, unsure of what to do. He was thirsty, but it appeared his father wanted the milk.
"Come here, son," Vegeta's voice was low and gentler than normal. It was time to stop holding back and to start keeping the promise he'd made. Trunks meant everything to him and as mushy as it was, it was time he start showing that.
Trunks hesistated, then slowly walked toward his father. Had he done something wrong again? His Dad didn't sound angry, but what else could he possibly want but to lecture him in some way? He was astonished when Vegeta reached down and lifted him onto his lap, handing him the milk. Trunks felt uneasy and hesistated before drinking the entire carton. What was wrong with his father? The only other time he'd ever held him was before he'd died and right after he'd returned.
Suddenly Trunks got a sinking feeling. "Dad...you're not going to die again are you?"
Vegeta's eyes widened. It took him a few minutes to discern why his son would ask such a thing. A small pain ran through his body as he realized the only time he'd held Trunks was before he died. That's how out of the ordinary it was. "No, son."
There was silence again. Trunks felt very insecure and self-conscious. "Dad..."
"Yes?"
"...did you mean what you said?"
"When?"
"...before Majin Buu..."
Vegeta thought for a second. What had he said? That he was proud of his son. Was that it? Trunks didn't know if he meant it? Obviously he'd been an awful father if his son didn't even know whether to believe what he said or not! Vegeta lifted Trunks onto the counter so they could have eye contact, keeping his hands on his rib cage. His son needed to KNOW he meant every word he was about to say. "Of course I meant it Trunks."
Trunks looked happy for a split second, then he lowered his head, discouraged. "Even after all the things I did tonight?" his voice was small and there was no hope in it.
Vegeta forced his face up. "Listen to me, Trunks. I love you, son, and I will always be proud of you. No matter what you've done, or what you'll do in the future, I will always, ALWAYS love you, do you understand? NOTHING will ever change that."
Trunks was astounded. He didn't know if he'd really heard those words come from his father or if he'd only imagined it.
"Answer me, Trunks, do you understand?"
Trunks nodded ever so slightly and Vegeta pulled him back into his lap, cradling him almost like a baby and forcing his head against his shoulder. "Promise you won't tell anyone I told you this...Promise."
"I promise," Trunks was confused. If this was a dream, it was the best one he'd ever had.
Vegeta rocked slightly without even knowing it. Trunks kept waiting for him to let go, but he didn't. After awhile he began to relax, feeling happier than he ever had in his entire life. A small smile came over his face and he closed his eyes, relaxing his head against his father's strong shoulder. He felt secure. He felt LOVED. He put a small arm around his father's waist.
Vegeta looked down and smiled. It was such an extraordinary thing for him to hold his son, but he liked it. It brought him peace and warmth he'd never felt before. The boy wasn't afraid of him anymore. He wasn't tense. This tiny being with Vegeta's own blood running through his body really trusted him now. He felt as if he were holding a piece of himself and he didn't want that feeling to ever end.
Trunks slowly drifted off to sleep. Vegeta slowly stood, careful not to wake him, and went upstairs to his and Bulma's room. Tonight he would keep Trunks with him. He He didn't want to take his eyes off of him again. Gently he placed him on the bed and pulled the covers up to his neck. Then he brushed the hair out of his eyes and kissed his forehead. As long as nobody saw him, nobody could know he'd developed such a soft spot in his heart.
He climbed in the bed, next to Trunks, and listened to his breath as he slowly fell asleep.
* * * * *
When he woke, the sleepies in Trunks' eyes prevented him from seeing where he was. Quickly he remembered the wonderful dream he'd had and he jumped out of his bed, which seemed bigger for some reason and started running toward the door. He had to tell his mother about it!
"Mom! Mom, I had the best dream in the world last night! Dad...," he started, then stopped as he reached the doorway, realizing he was already in his parents' room.
Trunks' yelling had instantly waken Vegeta. "Trunks...you promised not to tell...," he smirked, reminding his child.
Trunks turned to see his father proped up on one arm. He looked at him in surprise. "You mean...it wasn't a dream...?"
"No, son, I really said it. And I MEANT it too," Vegeta's smirk grew.
Trunks couldn't hold back the giant smile forming on his face. His father loved him, he really DID! Vegeta held out an arm to him and Trunks was ecstatic to run into his father's embrace.
"Trunks, I need to say something..."
Trunks backed away, just a tad nervous. His father wasn't going to say he'd lied was he?
"I promise from now on I'm going to spend more time with you...other than training. I need you to help me keep that promise, ok?"
Trunks smiled again. "Sure Dad, ok!"
Vegeta smiled as well, then he wiped it away. Enough of this mush! "Now go clean up your room before your mother gets home and has a fit!"
Trunks laughed and ran off. "Ok, Dad."
* * * * *
It was in the late afternoon that Bulma finally returned home. The house looked a lot cleaner than she'd expected. "Trunks, I'm back...did your father behave?" she called.
Trunks came running in the room and hugged her. "Hi, Mom." He was happier than she'd ever seen him.
"Well!" Bulma smiled, surprised. "You sure are cheerful! What's gotten into you? Where's Goten?"
"Oh," Trunks hadn't thought about it. "I guess he went home."
"Where's your father?"
"I don't know...probably in the gravity chamber. I'll get him," Trunks ran off before Bulma could object. She decided to follow him and make sure Vegeta didn't react too adversely. Trunks had already gone in by the time she got to the door.
"Hey Dad, will you take me to the park?" Trunks asked.
"No, I'm training," Vegeta's answer was quick and gruff.
Trunks' face fell. "Oh, ok," he turned to leave.
Vegeta turned, hearing the disapointment in his son's voice. He'd almost forgotten what he'd said earlier. "Trunks..."
Trunks turned, a small hint of hope on his face.
"Train with me for an hour, then I'll take you. Deal?"
Trunks smiled ear to ear.
Vegeta smirked. "I thought I told you to hold me to that promise, son...," he started punching invisable enemies again.
"I guess it'll take some getting used to," Trunks shrugged. "Oh, Mom's home. She wants to see you."
Vegeta looked to the door. "She didn't see the bathroom door or the car yet did she?"
"I don't think so..."
"We'd better hope not," Vegeta smirked and went to the door, surprised to see Bulma right outside.
"What's this about the car and the door?" Bulma asked.
"It's nothing. Just a little accident. I'll fix it."
"Vegeta...," Bulma looked up at him, confused. "I don't know what it is you've done, but Trunks has never been so happy in his life. Did you guys have a good night?"
"It all ended all right," Vegeta answered, not disclosing any more details.
Bulma smiled. "Well whatever you did, keep it up!" she put an arm around him. Vegeta returned the gesture and the two kissed.
THE END