Next time:
"No, actually I'm late."
"Whatever." He adjusted Trunks in his arms and motion with his head for him to follow, though something caught his eye, and he turned back. "Who's with you?"
******************************************
"Rikyu," Sorai said, taking a cautious step back, though he knew Vegeta wouldn't care make any rash move with little Trunks in his arms.
"I thought this dealt with only us. What's he doing here?" he snapped in a hushed tone so not to upset his son who had just ceased his crying from a previous fit.
At this point, Rikyu was out of the car, slowly making his way to the porch. Vegeta kept his focus on the nervous Sorai so to retain his power over him, though continually glanced at Rikyu out of the corner of his eye. Him being there, the newest love interest of HIS Bulma, was causing him to feel cornered, set up.
"What the hell is he doing here?" Vegeta repeated, angry for having brought Trunks to the door with him; he should have left him with his mother and Tsukiyama.
"Calm down Vegeta," Rikyu said, holding his hands out defensively as he made his way up the steps to stand beside his brother. "We're not ganging up on you, so you can put your guard down."
"Shut up Yosano!" he hissed, trying his hardest to keep his temper under control. "Mother!" he yelled, turning his head back. A few moments later Mrs. Ouji came to the door, Tsukiyama in her arms.
"I'm not your servant, Vegeta," she said mockingly, though it was in a sweet joking, motherly voice.
"Can you take Trunks while I talk to them?" he asked, successfully keeping his temper in check, as he gestured with his head to Sorai and Rikyu.
"Oh! Sorai! Rikyu! How are you boys!?" she squeaked, scooping Trunks into her arms; she'd become rather skilled at holding to infants at once ever since Yuri and Yuki were born.
"I'm good," Sorai said, bowing respectfully. "How are you? I see little Tsukiyama is growing well."
"Yeah, she just keeps growing and growing, Trunks just can't keep up."
"Well she is seven months older," Vegeta growled, indicating that he wanted her to leave. She took the hint, though not before getting her fair share; she leaned over and gave Vegeta a little peck on the check, causing him to flinch and cower away. The second she was gone, Vegeta set his grounds. "Ok, listen to me you two. I don't appreciate you coming to my house and taking my time. Say whatever the hell it is you have to say and make it quick. I've got a lot of things to do."
"Vegeta," Rikyu said, taking a brave step forward. "Loosen up a little. I'm not here to make you feel uncomfortable. I just want to talk."
"About what?" Vegeta snapped, taking two steps back.
"Bulma." He reached for the doorknob. "No, not what you think. Not last year; Tuesday."
"What about it? I'm sure she told you her little sob story. What's left for me to say? Yes, I confirm what she told you."
"How do you know what she told me?"
"I know. What are you really here for?"
"I told you, Tuesday. I don't want to know what, I want to know-"
"Why," Vegeta finished for him, letting go to the knob. "But you forget, I will NOT talk to anyone."
"Except her."
"I think it's safe for me to say anyone, she won't have my story, so it stays with me. Understand?"
"Oh yes, quite well actually. But do you understand what you've done to her?"
"Kami, I can't believe you're wasting your time like this," he groaned, leaning against the door. "You think I haven't thought about the consequences every second of everyday? You think I haven't kicked myself everyday for all that has taken place since? Do I understand what I've done to her? Of course you moron," he snarled, taking a few steps forward, his nose almost touching Rikyu's. "The question is how long will she allow herself to feel that way?"
"Allow?" Rikyu pushed Vegeta back, gently, so not to start anything. "She feels what she feels because of things you've done to her. She can't just not feel that way, there's nothing-"
"Oh, but that's where you're wrong, where she's wrong. She can have everything she's ever wanted, and more, if only she-"
"She doesn't want to talk to you about that Vegeta."
"Well that's her fault then, isn't it? I've tried, more than you know, and she hasn't budged an inch. She holds her own fate, not me."
"And what do you think would happen if you got your chance to speak? What would you tell her?"
"You're tricky, but not tricky enough. You forget who you're talking to. I'm not that easily fooled."
"Fine, you caught me. What would happen if you were allowed to tell her your story?" He crossed his arms over his chest, glancing back at Sorai, who was watching them intently, never had he been witness to such an odd conversation.
"You know what I'll say. But why not? She'll come back to me, of course." Rikyu had to summon all his willpower to keep from smashing Vegeta's jaw through his forehead.
"Why? What can you offer her? A history of cheating?" This time it was Vegeta who had to restrain himself.
"Watch it Yosano."
"You too Ouji," he spat back, returning to his spot next to Sorai. "Just tell me why in Kami's name, if you loved her as much as you preach to yourself, you would insult her when she was finally talking to you, and then laugh when she defended herself? I don't know you, I don't pretend to, so you tell me. What kind of sick shit goes on in that fucked up head of yours!?"
Rikyu couldn't have blocked the punch if he'd seen it coming; square in his jaw, and he was on the ground.
"Violent, angry, hostile..worthless," Rikyu sighed as he brought himself to his feet. "That's what you are, but mostly, you're just pathetic. No wonder Bulma won't have your story; she knows how pathetic it'll be, how whiny, how like you. You'll never get her back Vegeta, not ever. She's my girl now and none of your pathetic little attempts will change that. She's with me because she's finally realized how pathetic and cowardly you really are, among countless other things." All Vegeta could do was laugh, hold his stomach and laugh. "What the fuck is so damn funny?"
"You and your little attempts to try and squeeze information out of me. Do you think I'm that stupid? Why the hell else would you have your brother call me with some juvenile excuse to talk to me and drag you along? You think I can't see your little plan? Ha! You're even dumber than I thought."
"And what is our little plan then? If you're such a genius."
"You have him call me," he said, motioning to Sorai, who flinched slightly. "Then you two come here, start talking about a recent incident between me and Bulma, and think, just because you so cleverly disguised your motive, that I'll just start spewing information when you attack me." Rikyu was speechless and Sorai was stunned, he'd hit the nail directly on the head. They'd definitely underestimated him and his weaknesses; did he even have any weaknesses? "What, didn't think I'd see through you? Sorry, but I'm not one of your dumb acquaintances who walks around blindly."
"Fuck you Vegeta," Rikyu hissed, lunging at him. Sorai caught him though, behind the elbows, and pulled him back. "Let go of me Sorai, or when I get loose, I'll get you too!" Sorai heeding his orders and stepping back.
"My, my Rikyu, you're looking rather upset. Did your prefect little plan backfire on you?" Vegeta taunted, ducking as Rikyu's fist rushed toward his face. "Oh, too slow. Try again." This time, Rikyu's fist hit its target, Vegeta's gut. He keeled over, holding his stomach, his head hitting the deck. He jumped up though, throwing his whole body at him, his fists aimed at his face. He missed, foolishly underestimating his opponent, receiving a blow to the face. He was taken back a few steps and about to make another move when Rikyu's fist collided with his nose, blood instantly beginning to flow out. Another few punches to his face and gut satisfied Rikyu's anger, leaving Vegeta in a painful heap on the porch.
"Stay away from her," was the last thing he said, spitting at him, though missing, as he walked away.
"Rikyu," Sorai called after him, running to catch up. "Don't you think that was a little much? I mean, we did come to his house and piss him off. He had every right to take offense at what we did."
"Are you siding with him?" he hissed, opening the driver's side door. "Because if you are, he can drive you home!"
"What the hell has gotten into you Rikyu?" He starred at him in disbelief, wondering where his brother was and who this man was that stood on the other side of the car.
"What the hell do you think!? That jackass, that's what! No! Don't touch my car! Find your own way home!" He was out of the driveway and speeding home before Sorai knew what had happened.
"Vegeta! You ok!?" he called as he cautiously made his way back to the porch.
"Yeah, I'm fine," he grunted, pushing his upper half off the porch with his arms. He turned himself over, sitting there, glaring at Sorai as he walked up the steps. "What do you want?"
"You look like shit," he stated simply, holding his hand out to help him up. He sneered at it, though grabbed it and allowed himself to be pulled to his feet.
"Don't tell me you're going to clean me up," Vegeta almost laughed, putting his hands in his pockets, ignoring the blood that was running down his nose and from a few minor cuts.
"No, but I am going to talk to your mom while you do."
"Whatever."
******************************************
Bulma smiled to herself as she walked down the street, not really paying much attention to the people who passed her by, as she made her way to the store on the corner. She was buying a new outfit for tonight and was headed to her favorite store. Her head was in the clouds, dreaming of the not so distant future, trying to picture herself in a snow white wedding dress, Rikyu at her side, when a large woman with several noisy children ran into her shoulder, taking her back a few steps.
"Watch it!" she hissed, grabbing her children's hands and dragging them away. Bulma wasn't phased in the least by it, but when she started walking again, was distracted by something that caught her eye. A poster on the side of the building she'd been stopped in front of. She read it through, pulling a pen out of her purse and writing the number at the bottom on her hand. How odd that this should interest her when things like it never had before.
*This should be interesting* she thought as she continued to the store, watching out for people more closely.
******************************************
"Shut up Tamotsu!" Bulma yelled, playfully hitting him in the arm. "You're so lying."
"No, I'm serious. Ask her yourself when she comes back," he defended, resting his elbows on the back of the booth. A few moments later Yumako came walking back, followed by Yamcha and Kiko who must had just gotten there. "Hun," he said when she took her seat beside him, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. "Tell Bulma I'm not lying."
"About what?" He leaned in and whispered in her ear and she couldn't help but let out a giggle. "Yeah, it's definitely true."
"Damn Tamo," she sighed, settling back into her place. "Hey Yamcha, Kiko. What took you two so long?"
"Traffic," Kiko replied with her usual sweet smile, though it still held a hint of nervousness. But how could anyone expect her to be completely comfortable around her boyfriend's ex-girlfriend and first love? Bulma understood completely, which was why she was so surprised she agreed to come at all.
"Well this is boring," Yumako sighed, hopping to her feet and dragging Tamotsu with her. "Come on you guys, it's not called a dance club because everyone sits on their asses and talks. That's what cafés are for."
"Yuma, honey, there's no music playing."
"Yeah, and? We own this joint, I'm sure we can persuade the DJ that we hired to start some music."
"But no one else is even here. The club doesn't open for another half hour," Bulma added.
"That doesn't mean we can't take advantage of the roomy dance floor."
"Ok, point proved," she sighed, skooching out of the booth. "But what about 18 and Krillin?"
"The bouncer has their names and pictures, and besides, she knows 18."
"That's true," she laughed, motioning with her head to Yamcha and Kiko.
"Nah B, we're going to sit awhile, Kiko's tired, worked all day," Yamcha answered, knowing what she was trying to ask.
"Alright, suit yourselves, but it's going to be packed later." She turned around, heading for the dance floor that was empty, safe Yumako and Tamotsu, when she remembered something that she wanted to say. "Hey Yamcha."
"Hmm?"
"Remember how I used to have the worst stage fright?"
"Do I ever. I couldn't even get you to WATCH a school play without you getting the heebie-jeebies."
"Well, you'll never guess what I did."
"You're right, just tell me," he laughed, completely at ease around her now, feeling more natural than the entire time they were dating.
"I signed up to audition for a play at Arakida Theatre downtown. I'm going down there next week."
"You're pulling my leg."
"No, seriously. Come with me if you don't believe me."
"Then I think I just might."
"Ok, Thursday, 6:00." She smiled, crossing her arms over her chest. "Oh shit!" she swore, hitting her forehead with the butt of her hand.
"What?"
"Vegeta's bringing Trunks back at 7:00 and I don't know how late the audition will be."
"Why not have Rikyu watch him?" Kiko suggested.
"Yeah," Yamcha added. "Where is he anyway?"
"You know, I have no idea. He said he would be running late cause he was going to do something, but he should be here by now."
"Who should be here by now?" came a voice from behind Bulma.
"Rikyu!" she cried, wrapping her arms around his neck, kissing him passionately. "What the hell took you so long?"
"Sorry," he sighed. "It took longer than I thought. I'll tell you all about it tonight."
"Yeah, but what if I wanted to do something besides talk?" she whispered seductively in his ear, rubbing her knee on his inner thigh. Rikyu tensed immediately, stiffening his shoulders. Not only was he nervous about his and Bulma's first time together, he was extremely uncomfortable about speaking and acting as Bulma was in public or, in this case, being around someone acting that way. She sensed his discomfort and slowly detached herself from him, kissing his check before she let go. "Are you busy this Thursday?"
"I don't know," he said, still a little uneasy about a moment ago. "Why?"
"Do you think you're free around 7:00 to-Oh I don't know-9:00?"
"What do you need?"
"Could you be at my house at 7:00 when Vegeta gets there and watch Trunks for me?"
"Uh..I don't think that'll work so well," he muttered, his eyes darting nervously.
"Why not? Are you busy?"
"No, it's not that."
"It's Vegeta, isn't it?" Yamcha asked on the off chance that it was. Rikyu nodded shamefully.
"What about him? Did he do something to you!?" she yelled, pointing her finger at him, causing him to flinch slightly.
"No, no, nothing like that," he said quickly, holding up his hands defensively.
"Then what?"
"Come here." He pulled her over away from the table to a secluded corner out of Yamcha and Kiko's hearing range. "Promise you won't get mad?"
"Mad? Why would I-What happened?"
"Just promise, please."
"No, I will not," she huffed, crossing her arms. Something had happened when he talked with Vegeta, something bad, something Rikyu did, and she knew it would make her made. "Tell me or I'm leaving."
"Well, we were just talking, normal, and then Vegeta started getting all defensive and insulting me and so I jabbed back at him, and then he punched me in the face and knocked me on the porch so-"
"Oh honey!" she cried, grabbing his head and examining it for bumps and bruises. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine. But-"
"That jerk!" she interrupted. "It figures he would do something like that! What an ass! Doesn't he know how to solve anything without fists!?"
"Bulma, sweety, there's more I shou-" But she continued as if he never opened his mouth.
"I mean just because you want to talk to him about things he's uncomfortable about doesn't give him the right to hit you. For Kami's sake!"
"That's not the reason I don't-"
"Uh! That's just so damn typical of him, you know?" Rikyu nodded. "Even after all he's learned in the past few years he's still up to his old games. It's so damn childish. Unbelievable! Hitting you because he's mad."
"Bulma, please-"
"It's just pathetic," she sighed, finally done with her rampage. "Did you want to say something honey?"
"No, that's alright. Do you want to dance?"
"Of course," she said sweetly, obviously cooled off from her anger.
***************************************
Goku sat in a fluffy blue armchair, Gohan in his arms, as he watched the news; he needed to know if it was going to rain tomorrow because he and Chi-Chi and Gohan were going on a picnic. His mind was in no particular place, just starring at the television screen, wondering when the whether report was going to come so he could do something else.
"Goku!" a voice yelled from directly behind him, startling him almost out of the chair. He grabbed for Gohan instantly so not to drop him, then settled back in his chair, glaring at his wife for having scared him.
"Chi, that's not funny," he growled.
"Oh yes it is," she giggled, resting her elbows on the back of the chair. "Are you busy?"
"Just waiting for the whether report. Why?"
"Well, when you're done I need to talk to you."
"About?" he turned completely from the TV, focusing on her. it must be important if she needed his full attention.
"Vegeta."
"Oh," he nearly moaned. He'd been on not so good terms with him lately, fighting frequently, and generally growing apart. He feared this was another one of Chi-Chi's get-him-to-talk-to-Vegeta speeches; she'd been doing that, trying to get them to settle their differences, for a while now. And it wasn't that Goku didn't want to, it was that whenever they did make up they always ended up fighting again.
"No, no, not that. I'm postponing that for awhile, I have something more urgent to focus on."
"Like what? I was beginning to think that was your life goal," he laughed, smiling sincerely at her.
"Getting Vegeta and Bulma back together, or at least to be civil to one another."
"That's a knew one. I thought you were going to 'coach for both teams and keep them off the field.'"
"Well I changed my mind. Me and Vegeta had a little talk the other day and I realized just how crucial their problem is. They cannot raise Trunks in a world of hate. It's not possible and it's not fair to him. And it's not fair to them either."
"To them?"
"Vegeta and Bulma. They desire each other, they love each other, they NEED each other. It's clear as day to me and to Vegeta, even if he can still barely admit his true feelings for her."
"And where do I come in?"
"Well, I'm still trying some ideas out in my head, but I have come up with a few." Goku nodded, telling her to go on. "Well, there's getting them both in one place and forcing them to talk."
"Bad idea, Vegeta would kill you."
"Not if we do it right."
"Oh, and what's the right way?"
Chi-Chi smirked deviously, leaning back and crossing her arms over her chest.
*********************************************
--Chapter 6!!! There you have it. Another lovely chapter for my wonderful readers :D I hope you all enjoyed it and that you give me lots of well deserved reviews (heehee).
REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Next time: Bulma goes to her audition with Yamcha (maybe) and more interesting developments..
"No, actually I'm late."
"Whatever." He adjusted Trunks in his arms and motion with his head for him to follow, though something caught his eye, and he turned back. "Who's with you?"
******************************************
"Rikyu," Sorai said, taking a cautious step back, though he knew Vegeta wouldn't care make any rash move with little Trunks in his arms.
"I thought this dealt with only us. What's he doing here?" he snapped in a hushed tone so not to upset his son who had just ceased his crying from a previous fit.
At this point, Rikyu was out of the car, slowly making his way to the porch. Vegeta kept his focus on the nervous Sorai so to retain his power over him, though continually glanced at Rikyu out of the corner of his eye. Him being there, the newest love interest of HIS Bulma, was causing him to feel cornered, set up.
"What the hell is he doing here?" Vegeta repeated, angry for having brought Trunks to the door with him; he should have left him with his mother and Tsukiyama.
"Calm down Vegeta," Rikyu said, holding his hands out defensively as he made his way up the steps to stand beside his brother. "We're not ganging up on you, so you can put your guard down."
"Shut up Yosano!" he hissed, trying his hardest to keep his temper under control. "Mother!" he yelled, turning his head back. A few moments later Mrs. Ouji came to the door, Tsukiyama in her arms.
"I'm not your servant, Vegeta," she said mockingly, though it was in a sweet joking, motherly voice.
"Can you take Trunks while I talk to them?" he asked, successfully keeping his temper in check, as he gestured with his head to Sorai and Rikyu.
"Oh! Sorai! Rikyu! How are you boys!?" she squeaked, scooping Trunks into her arms; she'd become rather skilled at holding to infants at once ever since Yuri and Yuki were born.
"I'm good," Sorai said, bowing respectfully. "How are you? I see little Tsukiyama is growing well."
"Yeah, she just keeps growing and growing, Trunks just can't keep up."
"Well she is seven months older," Vegeta growled, indicating that he wanted her to leave. She took the hint, though not before getting her fair share; she leaned over and gave Vegeta a little peck on the check, causing him to flinch and cower away. The second she was gone, Vegeta set his grounds. "Ok, listen to me you two. I don't appreciate you coming to my house and taking my time. Say whatever the hell it is you have to say and make it quick. I've got a lot of things to do."
"Vegeta," Rikyu said, taking a brave step forward. "Loosen up a little. I'm not here to make you feel uncomfortable. I just want to talk."
"About what?" Vegeta snapped, taking two steps back.
"Bulma." He reached for the doorknob. "No, not what you think. Not last year; Tuesday."
"What about it? I'm sure she told you her little sob story. What's left for me to say? Yes, I confirm what she told you."
"How do you know what she told me?"
"I know. What are you really here for?"
"I told you, Tuesday. I don't want to know what, I want to know-"
"Why," Vegeta finished for him, letting go to the knob. "But you forget, I will NOT talk to anyone."
"Except her."
"I think it's safe for me to say anyone, she won't have my story, so it stays with me. Understand?"
"Oh yes, quite well actually. But do you understand what you've done to her?"
"Kami, I can't believe you're wasting your time like this," he groaned, leaning against the door. "You think I haven't thought about the consequences every second of everyday? You think I haven't kicked myself everyday for all that has taken place since? Do I understand what I've done to her? Of course you moron," he snarled, taking a few steps forward, his nose almost touching Rikyu's. "The question is how long will she allow herself to feel that way?"
"Allow?" Rikyu pushed Vegeta back, gently, so not to start anything. "She feels what she feels because of things you've done to her. She can't just not feel that way, there's nothing-"
"Oh, but that's where you're wrong, where she's wrong. She can have everything she's ever wanted, and more, if only she-"
"She doesn't want to talk to you about that Vegeta."
"Well that's her fault then, isn't it? I've tried, more than you know, and she hasn't budged an inch. She holds her own fate, not me."
"And what do you think would happen if you got your chance to speak? What would you tell her?"
"You're tricky, but not tricky enough. You forget who you're talking to. I'm not that easily fooled."
"Fine, you caught me. What would happen if you were allowed to tell her your story?" He crossed his arms over his chest, glancing back at Sorai, who was watching them intently, never had he been witness to such an odd conversation.
"You know what I'll say. But why not? She'll come back to me, of course." Rikyu had to summon all his willpower to keep from smashing Vegeta's jaw through his forehead.
"Why? What can you offer her? A history of cheating?" This time it was Vegeta who had to restrain himself.
"Watch it Yosano."
"You too Ouji," he spat back, returning to his spot next to Sorai. "Just tell me why in Kami's name, if you loved her as much as you preach to yourself, you would insult her when she was finally talking to you, and then laugh when she defended herself? I don't know you, I don't pretend to, so you tell me. What kind of sick shit goes on in that fucked up head of yours!?"
Rikyu couldn't have blocked the punch if he'd seen it coming; square in his jaw, and he was on the ground.
"Violent, angry, hostile..worthless," Rikyu sighed as he brought himself to his feet. "That's what you are, but mostly, you're just pathetic. No wonder Bulma won't have your story; she knows how pathetic it'll be, how whiny, how like you. You'll never get her back Vegeta, not ever. She's my girl now and none of your pathetic little attempts will change that. She's with me because she's finally realized how pathetic and cowardly you really are, among countless other things." All Vegeta could do was laugh, hold his stomach and laugh. "What the fuck is so damn funny?"
"You and your little attempts to try and squeeze information out of me. Do you think I'm that stupid? Why the hell else would you have your brother call me with some juvenile excuse to talk to me and drag you along? You think I can't see your little plan? Ha! You're even dumber than I thought."
"And what is our little plan then? If you're such a genius."
"You have him call me," he said, motioning to Sorai, who flinched slightly. "Then you two come here, start talking about a recent incident between me and Bulma, and think, just because you so cleverly disguised your motive, that I'll just start spewing information when you attack me." Rikyu was speechless and Sorai was stunned, he'd hit the nail directly on the head. They'd definitely underestimated him and his weaknesses; did he even have any weaknesses? "What, didn't think I'd see through you? Sorry, but I'm not one of your dumb acquaintances who walks around blindly."
"Fuck you Vegeta," Rikyu hissed, lunging at him. Sorai caught him though, behind the elbows, and pulled him back. "Let go of me Sorai, or when I get loose, I'll get you too!" Sorai heeding his orders and stepping back.
"My, my Rikyu, you're looking rather upset. Did your prefect little plan backfire on you?" Vegeta taunted, ducking as Rikyu's fist rushed toward his face. "Oh, too slow. Try again." This time, Rikyu's fist hit its target, Vegeta's gut. He keeled over, holding his stomach, his head hitting the deck. He jumped up though, throwing his whole body at him, his fists aimed at his face. He missed, foolishly underestimating his opponent, receiving a blow to the face. He was taken back a few steps and about to make another move when Rikyu's fist collided with his nose, blood instantly beginning to flow out. Another few punches to his face and gut satisfied Rikyu's anger, leaving Vegeta in a painful heap on the porch.
"Stay away from her," was the last thing he said, spitting at him, though missing, as he walked away.
"Rikyu," Sorai called after him, running to catch up. "Don't you think that was a little much? I mean, we did come to his house and piss him off. He had every right to take offense at what we did."
"Are you siding with him?" he hissed, opening the driver's side door. "Because if you are, he can drive you home!"
"What the hell has gotten into you Rikyu?" He starred at him in disbelief, wondering where his brother was and who this man was that stood on the other side of the car.
"What the hell do you think!? That jackass, that's what! No! Don't touch my car! Find your own way home!" He was out of the driveway and speeding home before Sorai knew what had happened.
"Vegeta! You ok!?" he called as he cautiously made his way back to the porch.
"Yeah, I'm fine," he grunted, pushing his upper half off the porch with his arms. He turned himself over, sitting there, glaring at Sorai as he walked up the steps. "What do you want?"
"You look like shit," he stated simply, holding his hand out to help him up. He sneered at it, though grabbed it and allowed himself to be pulled to his feet.
"Don't tell me you're going to clean me up," Vegeta almost laughed, putting his hands in his pockets, ignoring the blood that was running down his nose and from a few minor cuts.
"No, but I am going to talk to your mom while you do."
"Whatever."
******************************************
Bulma smiled to herself as she walked down the street, not really paying much attention to the people who passed her by, as she made her way to the store on the corner. She was buying a new outfit for tonight and was headed to her favorite store. Her head was in the clouds, dreaming of the not so distant future, trying to picture herself in a snow white wedding dress, Rikyu at her side, when a large woman with several noisy children ran into her shoulder, taking her back a few steps.
"Watch it!" she hissed, grabbing her children's hands and dragging them away. Bulma wasn't phased in the least by it, but when she started walking again, was distracted by something that caught her eye. A poster on the side of the building she'd been stopped in front of. She read it through, pulling a pen out of her purse and writing the number at the bottom on her hand. How odd that this should interest her when things like it never had before.
*This should be interesting* she thought as she continued to the store, watching out for people more closely.
******************************************
"Shut up Tamotsu!" Bulma yelled, playfully hitting him in the arm. "You're so lying."
"No, I'm serious. Ask her yourself when she comes back," he defended, resting his elbows on the back of the booth. A few moments later Yumako came walking back, followed by Yamcha and Kiko who must had just gotten there. "Hun," he said when she took her seat beside him, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. "Tell Bulma I'm not lying."
"About what?" He leaned in and whispered in her ear and she couldn't help but let out a giggle. "Yeah, it's definitely true."
"Damn Tamo," she sighed, settling back into her place. "Hey Yamcha, Kiko. What took you two so long?"
"Traffic," Kiko replied with her usual sweet smile, though it still held a hint of nervousness. But how could anyone expect her to be completely comfortable around her boyfriend's ex-girlfriend and first love? Bulma understood completely, which was why she was so surprised she agreed to come at all.
"Well this is boring," Yumako sighed, hopping to her feet and dragging Tamotsu with her. "Come on you guys, it's not called a dance club because everyone sits on their asses and talks. That's what cafés are for."
"Yuma, honey, there's no music playing."
"Yeah, and? We own this joint, I'm sure we can persuade the DJ that we hired to start some music."
"But no one else is even here. The club doesn't open for another half hour," Bulma added.
"That doesn't mean we can't take advantage of the roomy dance floor."
"Ok, point proved," she sighed, skooching out of the booth. "But what about 18 and Krillin?"
"The bouncer has their names and pictures, and besides, she knows 18."
"That's true," she laughed, motioning with her head to Yamcha and Kiko.
"Nah B, we're going to sit awhile, Kiko's tired, worked all day," Yamcha answered, knowing what she was trying to ask.
"Alright, suit yourselves, but it's going to be packed later." She turned around, heading for the dance floor that was empty, safe Yumako and Tamotsu, when she remembered something that she wanted to say. "Hey Yamcha."
"Hmm?"
"Remember how I used to have the worst stage fright?"
"Do I ever. I couldn't even get you to WATCH a school play without you getting the heebie-jeebies."
"Well, you'll never guess what I did."
"You're right, just tell me," he laughed, completely at ease around her now, feeling more natural than the entire time they were dating.
"I signed up to audition for a play at Arakida Theatre downtown. I'm going down there next week."
"You're pulling my leg."
"No, seriously. Come with me if you don't believe me."
"Then I think I just might."
"Ok, Thursday, 6:00." She smiled, crossing her arms over her chest. "Oh shit!" she swore, hitting her forehead with the butt of her hand.
"What?"
"Vegeta's bringing Trunks back at 7:00 and I don't know how late the audition will be."
"Why not have Rikyu watch him?" Kiko suggested.
"Yeah," Yamcha added. "Where is he anyway?"
"You know, I have no idea. He said he would be running late cause he was going to do something, but he should be here by now."
"Who should be here by now?" came a voice from behind Bulma.
"Rikyu!" she cried, wrapping her arms around his neck, kissing him passionately. "What the hell took you so long?"
"Sorry," he sighed. "It took longer than I thought. I'll tell you all about it tonight."
"Yeah, but what if I wanted to do something besides talk?" she whispered seductively in his ear, rubbing her knee on his inner thigh. Rikyu tensed immediately, stiffening his shoulders. Not only was he nervous about his and Bulma's first time together, he was extremely uncomfortable about speaking and acting as Bulma was in public or, in this case, being around someone acting that way. She sensed his discomfort and slowly detached herself from him, kissing his check before she let go. "Are you busy this Thursday?"
"I don't know," he said, still a little uneasy about a moment ago. "Why?"
"Do you think you're free around 7:00 to-Oh I don't know-9:00?"
"What do you need?"
"Could you be at my house at 7:00 when Vegeta gets there and watch Trunks for me?"
"Uh..I don't think that'll work so well," he muttered, his eyes darting nervously.
"Why not? Are you busy?"
"No, it's not that."
"It's Vegeta, isn't it?" Yamcha asked on the off chance that it was. Rikyu nodded shamefully.
"What about him? Did he do something to you!?" she yelled, pointing her finger at him, causing him to flinch slightly.
"No, no, nothing like that," he said quickly, holding up his hands defensively.
"Then what?"
"Come here." He pulled her over away from the table to a secluded corner out of Yamcha and Kiko's hearing range. "Promise you won't get mad?"
"Mad? Why would I-What happened?"
"Just promise, please."
"No, I will not," she huffed, crossing her arms. Something had happened when he talked with Vegeta, something bad, something Rikyu did, and she knew it would make her made. "Tell me or I'm leaving."
"Well, we were just talking, normal, and then Vegeta started getting all defensive and insulting me and so I jabbed back at him, and then he punched me in the face and knocked me on the porch so-"
"Oh honey!" she cried, grabbing his head and examining it for bumps and bruises. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine. But-"
"That jerk!" she interrupted. "It figures he would do something like that! What an ass! Doesn't he know how to solve anything without fists!?"
"Bulma, sweety, there's more I shou-" But she continued as if he never opened his mouth.
"I mean just because you want to talk to him about things he's uncomfortable about doesn't give him the right to hit you. For Kami's sake!"
"That's not the reason I don't-"
"Uh! That's just so damn typical of him, you know?" Rikyu nodded. "Even after all he's learned in the past few years he's still up to his old games. It's so damn childish. Unbelievable! Hitting you because he's mad."
"Bulma, please-"
"It's just pathetic," she sighed, finally done with her rampage. "Did you want to say something honey?"
"No, that's alright. Do you want to dance?"
"Of course," she said sweetly, obviously cooled off from her anger.
***************************************
Goku sat in a fluffy blue armchair, Gohan in his arms, as he watched the news; he needed to know if it was going to rain tomorrow because he and Chi-Chi and Gohan were going on a picnic. His mind was in no particular place, just starring at the television screen, wondering when the whether report was going to come so he could do something else.
"Goku!" a voice yelled from directly behind him, startling him almost out of the chair. He grabbed for Gohan instantly so not to drop him, then settled back in his chair, glaring at his wife for having scared him.
"Chi, that's not funny," he growled.
"Oh yes it is," she giggled, resting her elbows on the back of the chair. "Are you busy?"
"Just waiting for the whether report. Why?"
"Well, when you're done I need to talk to you."
"About?" he turned completely from the TV, focusing on her. it must be important if she needed his full attention.
"Vegeta."
"Oh," he nearly moaned. He'd been on not so good terms with him lately, fighting frequently, and generally growing apart. He feared this was another one of Chi-Chi's get-him-to-talk-to-Vegeta speeches; she'd been doing that, trying to get them to settle their differences, for a while now. And it wasn't that Goku didn't want to, it was that whenever they did make up they always ended up fighting again.
"No, no, not that. I'm postponing that for awhile, I have something more urgent to focus on."
"Like what? I was beginning to think that was your life goal," he laughed, smiling sincerely at her.
"Getting Vegeta and Bulma back together, or at least to be civil to one another."
"That's a knew one. I thought you were going to 'coach for both teams and keep them off the field.'"
"Well I changed my mind. Me and Vegeta had a little talk the other day and I realized just how crucial their problem is. They cannot raise Trunks in a world of hate. It's not possible and it's not fair to him. And it's not fair to them either."
"To them?"
"Vegeta and Bulma. They desire each other, they love each other, they NEED each other. It's clear as day to me and to Vegeta, even if he can still barely admit his true feelings for her."
"And where do I come in?"
"Well, I'm still trying some ideas out in my head, but I have come up with a few." Goku nodded, telling her to go on. "Well, there's getting them both in one place and forcing them to talk."
"Bad idea, Vegeta would kill you."
"Not if we do it right."
"Oh, and what's the right way?"
Chi-Chi smirked deviously, leaning back and crossing her arms over her chest.
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--Chapter 6!!! There you have it. Another lovely chapter for my wonderful readers :D I hope you all enjoyed it and that you give me lots of well deserved reviews (heehee).
REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Next time: Bulma goes to her audition with Yamcha (maybe) and more interesting developments..