Last time:
"We're coming as fast as we can, 17!" Bulma shot back, relishing in the chuckle that escaped his lips. Maris seemed immune to jealousy on that account, and Bulma was glad for it. She could see herself falling for 17 more than Vegeta. Not that she didn't adore the reckless lead singer, but he just didn't seem like the type of guy that would be interested in her. Maybe she was wrong. "Like I could have any of them," she thought with a laugh as she and her friends passed through the doorway.
**********************************************
Vegeta, the famed lead singer, stood immediately upon the group's entrance, and with a palpable air of confidence crossed the room, heading straight for them. He gave an obvious glance in Bulma's direction, then veered off sharply, and went towards a cooler chock full of ice and cans of soda. 18, the drummer and sister to the group's escort, scoffed brusquely at Vegeta's rudeness, though made no comment. It was more than obvious that his actions weren't uncommon.
"I'm 18 Gero," she said, almost formally; monotone. She offered her hand to each person of the group, lingering just a split second longer on Krillin, the only guy. He nearly fainted on the spot, though held strong and forced back a furious blush. "Of course you already know this, but there's no reason not to be polite." She gave a weak, uncomfortable smile, as if it were unnatural for her, then added, with a certain degree of unmaskable malice, "Some people are born impolite, however."
Vegeta made no acknowledgement of her comment what so ever, sipping away at his soda. He was more than used to it.
"I'm Goku!" came the unmistakenable voice of the bassist. The tall spiky haired man from the stage came running forward and grabbed the closest person's hand, shaking it furiously. "Goku Son. You have no idea how boring these guys can be sometimes." It was more than clear that he was hyper, and a bit too honest with his words, though the group didn't seem to mind his statement. "Even 17—" He motioned to him, still behind the group. "—has his moments. It gets really dull around here after shows when we aren't on the road the same night. And since we're doing a few more shows here, we're not going anywhere for a few days." He paused for a split second. "So, who are you guys?"
"I found them in our hotel lobby," 17 laughed, gently pushing through the group and taking a seat on a leather couch beside Vegeta. "They were just sort of standing around. I got to talking to them and thought, 'Hey! I'll bring them back!' This one—" He pointed to Maris. "—she's a real firecracker. I love her." He winked at Maris and she smiled back, not flinching in the least. Bulma found this oddly comforting, that Maris was dealing with the situation the same as she, acting as though these weren't the very people they'd all idolized for so long. Krillin and Chi-Chi were a little high-strung and jumpy, though they hid it well. "And in the back, the one with the aqua hair, that's Bulma Briefs!"
Vegeta spit a good amount of soda onto the floor and jerked is head towards the group. Of course he knew who she was, everyone did, but there was also some deeper connection there. What was it? He knew he'd heard his mother mention her name several times before and not in regards to Capsule Corp. Finally, he noticed everyone was starring at him.
"What?" he snapped, taking another sip of soda.
"Sorry," 18 snapped back, and something told Bulma that their relationship was strong, even with all their fighting and ill words. "It must have been someone else who spit soda all over the place."
"Must have been."
"Anyway," 17 went on, as if nothing had stopped him. "I asked them to come back, and they said yes, obviously. That's Maris, Bulma, duh, Chi-Chi with the black hair, and Krillin. I think we should take them with us around the country."
"Shut up," Vegeta said. "If we're not going to let you have that bulldog, we're not going to let you kidnap a bunch of high school students." He glanced over at the group. "Do you people talk? I want to see what's so great about you all."
"Well don't you have a temper," Maris blurted out. Chi-Chi gasped. "You have a great singing voice and Kami you're gorgeous, but that attitude—How do you get girls with such a thing?"
"That's simple," Goku laughed. "He doesn't want girls that don't only see him as a singer and a hunk."
"Kakarot," Vegeta growled. "Never again are YOU to call me a 'hunk'." He turned back to Maris, his furrowed brow relaxing some. He liked her fire. "And you. You need to learn some respect. You're back here in our private rooms. I could very well have you thrown out."
"That's never happened to me before," she commented. "Sounds interesting. Holy Kuso!" She suddenly ran across the room towards their big screen TV, but it was what was on the table before it that she was ogling over. "You guys have Yuriko's Revenge!" she all but screamed, not daring to touch the object on the table. "I've been looking all over Japan for this game! None of the video stores anywhere have it. It's been sold out for months!"
"Vegeta has a deal with the company that made the game," 17 said a-matter-of-factly. "We put up their banners, and they give us games for free. That one came like a week before it was on store shelves."
"I beat Yuriko's Quest is like two days on expert, and I got the Bonus Level and beat that too. I got detention for a week for skipping school for two days, but it was worth it."
"But you're life is cut in half on expert!" Vegeta shouted, as if Maris had done something to intentionally hurt him. "And everyone else has full life. It's impossible."
"Maybe for you," she countered smugly. "I happen to be a wizard on those kind of games. I beat The Yearling in like three days. Piece of cake."
"You're lying," he snapped. She only laughed, then pointed to the game system and said, "Alright. You want to see how badly I'm lying? I'll show you. Let me play Yuriko's Revenge, and you'll see how good I am. I bet you I could beat it in two to three days."
"You're on onna," he laughed, reaching out his hand to seal the bet. "She's staying," he said to 17, who shrugged and turned to the rest of the group. "What's the bet?"
"What do you want if you win?"
"You have to be in a commercial for some music store. They asked me and I said no, and then my crack head manager told me I had to find someone to replace me. I pick you."
"Fine."
"And if you win?"
She turned and looked at Bulma, who flinched almost instinctively. What was she up to?
"You have to go on a date—"
"With you?" He eyed her up and down. "Ok."
"No. With Bulma."
Bulma's face drained of all color. She couldn't find the words, or even enough energy to shake her head. What the hell was she thinking? Who said she wanted to go on a date with him? Sure, he was beyond sexy, and Yeah, she absolutely worshipped him from the moment she saw his picture on a CD cover, but a date? How the hell would she pull that off!
She was so caught up in her thoughts that she barely heard Vegeta say, "Whatever," then he continued discussing the game. By the time she found her voice, they were already on the couch in front of the TV, Maris' focus completely on the screen, her thumbs already ramming away at the buttons. Her heart sank and she felt a horrible pain in her stomach. He hadn't even given her a second glance and his acceptance, his "whatever", it stung hard. And she was distastefully jealous about Maris. She hated being jealous.
"The rest of you should stay too," 17 piped in, coming over to the group that was down to three. "You can watch the shows from back here if you like. I promise I won't bring anyone else back."
"We'd love to," Chi-Chi and Krillin said at once.
"Bulma?"
"I-I can't. Sorry. I promised my dad I'd work desk tomorrow night when I got home. I really want to, but—"
"I understand," 17 sighed.
"You guys should stay though," she said to Chi-Chi and Krillin. "If Maris doesn't leave in time for you to get home by Sunday night, then I'll send a chopper to come get you."
"I don't want to fly," Chi-Chi sighed, though a smile forced it's way to her face almost instantly. "But what the hell. I don't care. Send a damn elephant. I'll ride that back to Satan City."
"Krill?"
"I'm fine. But I wish you'd just call your dad and tell him you want to stay, I mean, wouldn't he be hap—"
Bulma suddenly snatched up Krillin's arm and pulled him away from Chi-Chi and 17, and whispered furiously, "Shut up Krillin. I don't want to stay, ok? I know I could get out of doing desk. I know my dad would love to see me happy over this, but I just don't want to be here. I don't understand it, ok? I love the band, I really do. I'm ready to die right here on the spot, but Vegeta—"
"Are you jealous that he's paying more attention to Maris than you? Bulma, you're going on a date with him if she wins that stupid bet. So what's wrong?"
She hesitated for a moment, then said, "That's not it. It's his attitude. He's a great singer and all, but he's just not a good person. I never expected this from someone who had such a magnificent voice."
"Please stay, B. It wouldn't be the same without you." He took her hand suddenly and pulled he in for a one-armed hug. 18 took notice of this from across the room, then continued to watch Maris on the big screen. "Look, I came to the concert and I was going to bow out because of Maron. She broke up with me over it and I still came. I think you can deal with Vegeta for a few nights. Besides, he might soften up once he gets to know you. Maybe he's one of those people who have a hard time talking with new people."
"Fine," she sighed, shrugging loose from his embrace. "I'm staying," she said to Chi-Chi and 17. "Just need to call my dad." She reached into her pocket and pulled out her cellular phone, punching in the numbers rapidly. "Hey dad. I'm doing great. Yeah, the concert was amazing, thank you so much. We're actually backstage with the band. I know, I can't believe it either. I was just wondering though if I could stay 'til Sunday night, I promise I'll be back in time for school Monday. Why? 'Cause the band asked us to stay with them. They said they get bored and need other company besides themselves and—Thank you daddy. I love you. Oh, can could you call Chi-Chi and Krillin's parents and tell them they're staying? Have them call my cell if they need to talk with them. Thanks. Bye."
"He doesn't mind you staying with a bunch of guys?" 18 scoffed across the room. "And my sister?"
"Nah. Krillin stays over all the time. He trusts me."
"That's great. My father used to be so over protective. He hardly let me and 18 start this band, let alone travel all over the country."
"Well what changed?"
"He died," he said with a shrug.
"I'm so sorry."
"No, it's fine. Really. He wasn't the sort of man you'd call…nice." He laughed. "So, anyway, we're only touring for a few more weeks, then we get like two months vacation time 'til we have to start recording our new CD. We were thinking about visiting Satan City, since that's where we all grew up. You think—"
"I think that if you don't come to Capsule Corp. and visit then I'll never speak with you again."
"Good," he laughed. "And you'll have all your friends with you, right?"
"Yes," Chi-Chi chimed in. "But it's not like we're not always there anyway."
"Hey, bums!" came a deep, angry voice from the doorway. "Get out of here. Go back to that damn hotel."
"Who's that?" Bulma mumbled out of the corner of her mouth.
"Cleaning crew. They're monsters. They feel the need to clean this back room after the shows, but it's only so they can use it."
"Come on. Go!"
"Can it!" Vegeta yelled. "We're busy!"
A large greasy looking man came pounding into the room, and straight for Maris and Vegeta. Maris quickly saved her game, just before the brute pulled the plug.
"Jerk," she muttered.
"Hurry up," Vegeta said, yanking the game system up, and heading for the door. "We're going to my hotel room." They ran out the door before the cleaning "boss" could get another word out to them.
"You three go ahead," 17 said, scribbling down his room number, and those of 18 and Goku. "Just stay in your room for like an hour then come to us."
**************************************************************
Bulma, Chi-Chi, and Krillin all collapsed on the same bed once inside their hotel room. Neither said anything for a long moment, their breathing heavy from jogging back. They were still in awe and positively reeling from the past few hours. No one wanted to speak, lest it all turn out to be a dream.
Finally Chi-Chi spoke up, unable to be quiet any longer.
"Good Kami!" she cried. "I was in the same room as Goku Son. He touched me! I can die! I can actually die!"
"No, you can't," Bulma said, almost angrily. "We're going to their rooms in an hour. We're spending an entire weekend with Green Dragon!" She couldn't help her excitement. Sure she was nervous beyond reason about Vegeta, but this was a chance of a lifetime. There was no way she wasn't going to be excited. "Where are our cameras? We need our cameras! I am not going to school on Monday without pictures of this weekend!"
"I think I'm in love," Krillin mumbled, obviously thinking of 18.
"You were already in love with her before the concert."
"I know. But now, I think I really am. Kami she's gorgeous."
"You know," Chi-Chi said, grabbing her make-up bag and a change of clothes; she was going to glam herself up some more before going to the hotel rooms. "I never thought something like this could happen to us. I mean, small city high school kids going to a concert and meeting their favorite band! When does that happen? And when are the bands actually this great? Not just some poster-friendly jerks. Have you thought about all this? Really let it sink in? In less than an hour we are all going to be in the hotel rooms of Green Dragon!"
"You know, Chi," Bulma laughed, "I think we have thought about it. We're never going to forget this weekend. And I have to confess something: I never thought 17 would be such a great guy in person. He has a great voice, and body, and everything—but he's hilarious too. And so nice, and friendly. He was always blurred out to Vegeta before."
"You make them sound like Supreme Beings." Chi-Chi let out a howling laugh, then ducked into the bathroom, calling, "But they are, aren't they! Supremely gorgeous!"
"I really like that Maris," Krillin said suddenly, kicking off his sneakers. He'd felt torn ever since he'd met her back in the mall. In the back of his mind he'd never forgotten her, only became distracted by Maron, and Maris was pushed further and further away. He was guilty for months when he thought more of Maris than Maron. And now it was 18 and Maris. He finally gets to meet 18, the woman of his deepest desires, and Maris is there too? What kind of a sick love tornado was Kami dropping him into?
"Yeah, me too," Bulma said, not sensing Krillin's discomfort in the least. "I can see us bringing her in. 17 was right, she is a real firecracker."
"Kami, we're talking about Green Dragon like they were old friends. I've been reeling for over 12 hours and I'm still not done. I don't care if I never sleep again."
"I'm glad they can't hear us like this. And by the way, great job being calm backstage. I never thought you or Chi-Chi could keep your cool in front of celebrities."
"Hard work," he laughed. "But, you're like a celebrity. I guess we had training."
"I am not a celebrity. I'm barely somebody at school."
"Bulma. Who doesn't know that name? Satan City adores you. All over Japan there's talk of Capsule Corp., Dr. Briefs, and his amazing daughter, Bulma, who's not only following in his footsteps, but making her own name for herself in the science world. Face it B, you're as famous as they come."
"Then why don't I feel famous? Where's the paperotsy? And the Tabloid slander? And the rumors that I'm dating some Movie Star?"
"You want all that?"
"No. I'm saying that I don't have that, and that's what famous people have."
"That's not true. There are plenty of famous people who we hardly hear about. And we hear about you and your father all the time."
"Correction, you hear about my father all the time. I'm barely mentioned. I'm a celebrity's daughter. That's all."
"Green Dragon knew your name."
"My name, not me."
"And who do you know that's famous? Really know?"
"I—" She stopped there.
"Exactly."
**********************************************************
Bulma starred at the miniscule black strapped dress in utter terror. It wouldn't cover past her knees, and the front would definitely reveal more than she did in a bathing suit. She shook her head furiously and swatted at the tiny piece of black fabric.
"I can't believe you actually think I'd wear something like that, Chi," she spat, brushing her hair into a loose ponytail. "I'm sorry, but I don't want some cheap moves to get a guy to notice me."
"Are you saying I'm cheap!" Chi-Chi was wearing a dress very similar to the one she'd wanted Bulma to wear, though hers was scarlet and had a slit up the side.
"No," Bulma sighed. Incoming headache. "I'm saying that I think that black dress is just a lure. You know why I stayed with Yamcha so long? 'Cause it was safe with him. I didn't need to go around looking for a guy and getting disappointed, 'cause I had one. I'm not very good at talking to guys and getting them interested in me. And I'm definitely not good at being sexy."
"What are you talking about?" Krillin piped in. He'd been channel surfing while waiting for Chi-Chi to finish getting ready, and simply couldn't stay out any longer. "You and Chi are the sexiest girls I know. You just hide it, B, that's all."
"Really?" Chi-Chi smiled. "Well I never thought I'd hear my best friend call me sexy and keep a straight face."
"I'm not kidding and I'm not shy about it with you two. I've known you too long to be shy when I tell you the truth."
"Do you think B should wear the dress?"
"No." Bulma gave him a thankful smile. "If she won't be comfortable then she shouldn't wear it. Besides, I agree with her about the guy thing. She thinks that if a guy is attracted to her it'll only be because she's wearing something like that, not because of who she is."
"Well I don't want guys to come to me 'cause of clothes like this, either. I like dressing up sometimes."
"Yeah, but who are you dressing up for tonight? At the concert you wore jeans and a tee-shirt. Just think for a minute; would Goku Son want a girl that changes her clothes every few hours? I don't think he's so complex."
"Krillin," she laughed. "You act like any of us have a shot with those guys. I'm just trying to enjoy my time with them, but I guess you're right. This dress is a little tight, and I can't move around very good. Maybe the jeans are more practical."
"Exactly," Bulma sighed. She pulled on her old tennis shoes and laced them up. "That's how I dress, practically. I don't dress for other people."
Chi-Chi dodged back into the bathroom to change back into her previous outfit. Just as that door shut, there was a knock at the door to the hallway. Bulma picked herself up off her bed and peered through the peephole.
"17!" she called, her smile broadening as he looked at her, though he could not see her. "I thought we were coming to you guys." Her heart was racing. How long could they all keep up their calm façades? Of course Green Dragon were regular, normal people, but how could anyone not be nervous around the famous?
"Well it's been over an hour and I'm sick of listening to Vegeta and Maris bicker on that game. He's so steamed that she's doing so well. Can I come in?"
"No!" she laughed, then swung open the door and stepped aside.
"Where's—" He paused for the smallest fraction of a second. "—Chi-Chi?"
Bulma nodded her head towards the bathroom. 17 only laughed. He could tell from the first moment he met Chi-Chi that she was that type of girl. He wondered why he hadn't remembered her name for a moment; she was all Goku had been talking about for the past hour.
"So, 17," Krillin said, sitting up and tossing the remote behind him on the bed. "When exactly did you all move out of Satan City?"
"About two years ago," he replied. He took a seat at the small desk he'd been standing beside.
"But wouldn't we have noticed you all in school? Orange Star is huge. All the kids from Satan City go there, and a whole bunch from the country too," Bulma said, thinking that she would never have missed so many beautiful guys.
"Nah. Vegeta was always too involved in his music to bother with school. He started putting the band together and never went to a single class at the High School; his mom tutors him now…And me, 18, and Goku were almost always home schooled. Goku by his grandfather, and me and 18 by our father, and then Vegeta's mother after he died…Vegeta's the only one that went to regular school passed 3rd grade. He dropped out right before High School."
"What schools did he attend?" she asked, trying her hardest not to sound too interested in him when 17 was sitting right there.
"Well his family lived in the heart of the city, so he went to Middle School somewhere around there. We all met in the 1st grade at Chibi Star—" Bulma's eyebrows furrowed. She'd gone to Chibi Star as well. Why hadn't she remembered those four? Surely they'd seen each other, and they must have lived close. She decided not to ask just now. "—then me, 18, and Goku we pulled after 3rd…Blah, blah, blah…It's not a very interesting story. Hey! Chi-Chi. Are you all ready now? I think 18's fallen asleep waiting."
"That's not funny," Chi-Chi snapped playfully, fighting to keep her frown. She too was feeling her heart beating faster than normal, and having trouble keeping her emotions in step.
Green Dragon's hotel room was several stories above Bulma, Chi-Chi, and Krillin's room. They took a special elevator that opened right up into the band's suite, of which 17 had a key. He explained when the doors opened that his room was straight forward and next to 18's, Goku's room was to the left, and Vegeta's to the right. The living room was where the elevator opened up to, and the kitchen and bathroom were to the left as well. He added that Goku always "needed" the room closest to the kitchen.
"18! Goku! Vegeta!" 17 called, finding no answer. "Hmm. Hey, Chi-Chi, go through that door into the kitchen and see if Goku's in there. I'll check his room." As he headed to the left he called over his shoulder, "Krillin my man, you go straight and find 18, and Bulma, you find Vegeta and Maris. I'll try to get them off that game soon."
They all departed in their separate directions, each wondering how the other was handling being in the hotel room of Green Dragon. Bulma wasted no time in venturing towards Vegeta and Maris. She did not like the idea of leaving them alone in the least.
Quietly she pushed open Vegeta's bedroom door, marveling first at its elegant appearance, and then at the size of the TV Maris was playing on. She sat on the edge of the couch, hammering away at the buttons of the controller, while Vegeta was laid back and glaring at the screen. Their backs were to her, though turned slightly so she could see the sides of their faces.
"Kuso!" Maris swore, startling Bulma. She decided to watch them for a moment and see what happened. "How do I use the Ice Sword? My fight button isn't working!"
"Oh," Vegeta laughed. "So I see you haven't read up on your oh-so-favorite game."
"I'm not a dork, Vegeta. I play. I'm good, great actually, but I don't 'read up' on games. I consider that cheating, and I'm definitely not a cheater." She'd since paused the game and was turned facing Vegeta, her face completely turned from Bulma now.
"It's not cheating, simpleton."
"Tell me how to use the Ice Sword. Why won't it work with the fight button?"
"We're in a bet here Miss Priss. I tell you nothing."
"I'll do that damn commercial for you, AND you can have something else for if I lose, though I won't."
"Fine."
"What do you want then?"
"Doesn't matter. You have to use the silver key to unlock that black box you found a few levels back. Whatever's in that box will make the sword work. Happy?" he grunted.
"Very."
Instantly she un-paused the game and again her fingers were ramming away at lightning speed. Bulma was about to voice her presence, when a loud hollow escaped Maris' lips.
"Holy Kami!" she cried, falling back into the couch cushions. Apparently she'd just beaten a level boss. "I couldn't have beaten her without that sword. I owe you Vegeta. Thanks so much!" And then suddenly she reached over, grabbed Vegeta's face, and pulled his head towards her for a quick kiss of gratitude, only when she pulled back a second later, Vegeta's hands were on the back of her head, holding her to him.
They fell into each other and sunk down in the couch, out of Bulma's view. She took a deep breath and closed the door, promising herself that she wasn't going to hate Maris out of jealousy.
"Stupid gaming bitch," she muttered, not being about to help herself. "How can you just kiss a member of Green Dragon!"
"Who kissed?" came 17's voice from across the room as he dragged Goku from the kitchen, a turkey leg clutched in his hand. Bulma looked at the floor. "Oh…" He glanced at the door Bulma had just exited. "VEGETAAAAA!!!!"
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---Chapter 3!! Woo! There you are! Hey, things are finally starting to heat up; too bad it's not with Bulma though. Damn Vegeta and his Vegeta-ness. Oh well, I promised a B/V, and that's what you'll get. Don't you people worry; I'm just getting warmed up. And yeah, I know, Maris seems a little two-faced, and slutty, but really she's not. It was an innocent kiss, or of excitement, and she didn't mean to hurt Bulma, she really likes her and the others. She's a good person, just gets caught in bad situations. I promise you'll like her in the end :P
REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Reviews=More Chapters)
Next time: Vegeta and ??? get into a vicious brawl and things get really ugly.
"We're coming as fast as we can, 17!" Bulma shot back, relishing in the chuckle that escaped his lips. Maris seemed immune to jealousy on that account, and Bulma was glad for it. She could see herself falling for 17 more than Vegeta. Not that she didn't adore the reckless lead singer, but he just didn't seem like the type of guy that would be interested in her. Maybe she was wrong. "Like I could have any of them," she thought with a laugh as she and her friends passed through the doorway.
**********************************************
Vegeta, the famed lead singer, stood immediately upon the group's entrance, and with a palpable air of confidence crossed the room, heading straight for them. He gave an obvious glance in Bulma's direction, then veered off sharply, and went towards a cooler chock full of ice and cans of soda. 18, the drummer and sister to the group's escort, scoffed brusquely at Vegeta's rudeness, though made no comment. It was more than obvious that his actions weren't uncommon.
"I'm 18 Gero," she said, almost formally; monotone. She offered her hand to each person of the group, lingering just a split second longer on Krillin, the only guy. He nearly fainted on the spot, though held strong and forced back a furious blush. "Of course you already know this, but there's no reason not to be polite." She gave a weak, uncomfortable smile, as if it were unnatural for her, then added, with a certain degree of unmaskable malice, "Some people are born impolite, however."
Vegeta made no acknowledgement of her comment what so ever, sipping away at his soda. He was more than used to it.
"I'm Goku!" came the unmistakenable voice of the bassist. The tall spiky haired man from the stage came running forward and grabbed the closest person's hand, shaking it furiously. "Goku Son. You have no idea how boring these guys can be sometimes." It was more than clear that he was hyper, and a bit too honest with his words, though the group didn't seem to mind his statement. "Even 17—" He motioned to him, still behind the group. "—has his moments. It gets really dull around here after shows when we aren't on the road the same night. And since we're doing a few more shows here, we're not going anywhere for a few days." He paused for a split second. "So, who are you guys?"
"I found them in our hotel lobby," 17 laughed, gently pushing through the group and taking a seat on a leather couch beside Vegeta. "They were just sort of standing around. I got to talking to them and thought, 'Hey! I'll bring them back!' This one—" He pointed to Maris. "—she's a real firecracker. I love her." He winked at Maris and she smiled back, not flinching in the least. Bulma found this oddly comforting, that Maris was dealing with the situation the same as she, acting as though these weren't the very people they'd all idolized for so long. Krillin and Chi-Chi were a little high-strung and jumpy, though they hid it well. "And in the back, the one with the aqua hair, that's Bulma Briefs!"
Vegeta spit a good amount of soda onto the floor and jerked is head towards the group. Of course he knew who she was, everyone did, but there was also some deeper connection there. What was it? He knew he'd heard his mother mention her name several times before and not in regards to Capsule Corp. Finally, he noticed everyone was starring at him.
"What?" he snapped, taking another sip of soda.
"Sorry," 18 snapped back, and something told Bulma that their relationship was strong, even with all their fighting and ill words. "It must have been someone else who spit soda all over the place."
"Must have been."
"Anyway," 17 went on, as if nothing had stopped him. "I asked them to come back, and they said yes, obviously. That's Maris, Bulma, duh, Chi-Chi with the black hair, and Krillin. I think we should take them with us around the country."
"Shut up," Vegeta said. "If we're not going to let you have that bulldog, we're not going to let you kidnap a bunch of high school students." He glanced over at the group. "Do you people talk? I want to see what's so great about you all."
"Well don't you have a temper," Maris blurted out. Chi-Chi gasped. "You have a great singing voice and Kami you're gorgeous, but that attitude—How do you get girls with such a thing?"
"That's simple," Goku laughed. "He doesn't want girls that don't only see him as a singer and a hunk."
"Kakarot," Vegeta growled. "Never again are YOU to call me a 'hunk'." He turned back to Maris, his furrowed brow relaxing some. He liked her fire. "And you. You need to learn some respect. You're back here in our private rooms. I could very well have you thrown out."
"That's never happened to me before," she commented. "Sounds interesting. Holy Kuso!" She suddenly ran across the room towards their big screen TV, but it was what was on the table before it that she was ogling over. "You guys have Yuriko's Revenge!" she all but screamed, not daring to touch the object on the table. "I've been looking all over Japan for this game! None of the video stores anywhere have it. It's been sold out for months!"
"Vegeta has a deal with the company that made the game," 17 said a-matter-of-factly. "We put up their banners, and they give us games for free. That one came like a week before it was on store shelves."
"I beat Yuriko's Quest is like two days on expert, and I got the Bonus Level and beat that too. I got detention for a week for skipping school for two days, but it was worth it."
"But you're life is cut in half on expert!" Vegeta shouted, as if Maris had done something to intentionally hurt him. "And everyone else has full life. It's impossible."
"Maybe for you," she countered smugly. "I happen to be a wizard on those kind of games. I beat The Yearling in like three days. Piece of cake."
"You're lying," he snapped. She only laughed, then pointed to the game system and said, "Alright. You want to see how badly I'm lying? I'll show you. Let me play Yuriko's Revenge, and you'll see how good I am. I bet you I could beat it in two to three days."
"You're on onna," he laughed, reaching out his hand to seal the bet. "She's staying," he said to 17, who shrugged and turned to the rest of the group. "What's the bet?"
"What do you want if you win?"
"You have to be in a commercial for some music store. They asked me and I said no, and then my crack head manager told me I had to find someone to replace me. I pick you."
"Fine."
"And if you win?"
She turned and looked at Bulma, who flinched almost instinctively. What was she up to?
"You have to go on a date—"
"With you?" He eyed her up and down. "Ok."
"No. With Bulma."
Bulma's face drained of all color. She couldn't find the words, or even enough energy to shake her head. What the hell was she thinking? Who said she wanted to go on a date with him? Sure, he was beyond sexy, and Yeah, she absolutely worshipped him from the moment she saw his picture on a CD cover, but a date? How the hell would she pull that off!
She was so caught up in her thoughts that she barely heard Vegeta say, "Whatever," then he continued discussing the game. By the time she found her voice, they were already on the couch in front of the TV, Maris' focus completely on the screen, her thumbs already ramming away at the buttons. Her heart sank and she felt a horrible pain in her stomach. He hadn't even given her a second glance and his acceptance, his "whatever", it stung hard. And she was distastefully jealous about Maris. She hated being jealous.
"The rest of you should stay too," 17 piped in, coming over to the group that was down to three. "You can watch the shows from back here if you like. I promise I won't bring anyone else back."
"We'd love to," Chi-Chi and Krillin said at once.
"Bulma?"
"I-I can't. Sorry. I promised my dad I'd work desk tomorrow night when I got home. I really want to, but—"
"I understand," 17 sighed.
"You guys should stay though," she said to Chi-Chi and Krillin. "If Maris doesn't leave in time for you to get home by Sunday night, then I'll send a chopper to come get you."
"I don't want to fly," Chi-Chi sighed, though a smile forced it's way to her face almost instantly. "But what the hell. I don't care. Send a damn elephant. I'll ride that back to Satan City."
"Krill?"
"I'm fine. But I wish you'd just call your dad and tell him you want to stay, I mean, wouldn't he be hap—"
Bulma suddenly snatched up Krillin's arm and pulled him away from Chi-Chi and 17, and whispered furiously, "Shut up Krillin. I don't want to stay, ok? I know I could get out of doing desk. I know my dad would love to see me happy over this, but I just don't want to be here. I don't understand it, ok? I love the band, I really do. I'm ready to die right here on the spot, but Vegeta—"
"Are you jealous that he's paying more attention to Maris than you? Bulma, you're going on a date with him if she wins that stupid bet. So what's wrong?"
She hesitated for a moment, then said, "That's not it. It's his attitude. He's a great singer and all, but he's just not a good person. I never expected this from someone who had such a magnificent voice."
"Please stay, B. It wouldn't be the same without you." He took her hand suddenly and pulled he in for a one-armed hug. 18 took notice of this from across the room, then continued to watch Maris on the big screen. "Look, I came to the concert and I was going to bow out because of Maron. She broke up with me over it and I still came. I think you can deal with Vegeta for a few nights. Besides, he might soften up once he gets to know you. Maybe he's one of those people who have a hard time talking with new people."
"Fine," she sighed, shrugging loose from his embrace. "I'm staying," she said to Chi-Chi and 17. "Just need to call my dad." She reached into her pocket and pulled out her cellular phone, punching in the numbers rapidly. "Hey dad. I'm doing great. Yeah, the concert was amazing, thank you so much. We're actually backstage with the band. I know, I can't believe it either. I was just wondering though if I could stay 'til Sunday night, I promise I'll be back in time for school Monday. Why? 'Cause the band asked us to stay with them. They said they get bored and need other company besides themselves and—Thank you daddy. I love you. Oh, can could you call Chi-Chi and Krillin's parents and tell them they're staying? Have them call my cell if they need to talk with them. Thanks. Bye."
"He doesn't mind you staying with a bunch of guys?" 18 scoffed across the room. "And my sister?"
"Nah. Krillin stays over all the time. He trusts me."
"That's great. My father used to be so over protective. He hardly let me and 18 start this band, let alone travel all over the country."
"Well what changed?"
"He died," he said with a shrug.
"I'm so sorry."
"No, it's fine. Really. He wasn't the sort of man you'd call…nice." He laughed. "So, anyway, we're only touring for a few more weeks, then we get like two months vacation time 'til we have to start recording our new CD. We were thinking about visiting Satan City, since that's where we all grew up. You think—"
"I think that if you don't come to Capsule Corp. and visit then I'll never speak with you again."
"Good," he laughed. "And you'll have all your friends with you, right?"
"Yes," Chi-Chi chimed in. "But it's not like we're not always there anyway."
"Hey, bums!" came a deep, angry voice from the doorway. "Get out of here. Go back to that damn hotel."
"Who's that?" Bulma mumbled out of the corner of her mouth.
"Cleaning crew. They're monsters. They feel the need to clean this back room after the shows, but it's only so they can use it."
"Come on. Go!"
"Can it!" Vegeta yelled. "We're busy!"
A large greasy looking man came pounding into the room, and straight for Maris and Vegeta. Maris quickly saved her game, just before the brute pulled the plug.
"Jerk," she muttered.
"Hurry up," Vegeta said, yanking the game system up, and heading for the door. "We're going to my hotel room." They ran out the door before the cleaning "boss" could get another word out to them.
"You three go ahead," 17 said, scribbling down his room number, and those of 18 and Goku. "Just stay in your room for like an hour then come to us."
**************************************************************
Bulma, Chi-Chi, and Krillin all collapsed on the same bed once inside their hotel room. Neither said anything for a long moment, their breathing heavy from jogging back. They were still in awe and positively reeling from the past few hours. No one wanted to speak, lest it all turn out to be a dream.
Finally Chi-Chi spoke up, unable to be quiet any longer.
"Good Kami!" she cried. "I was in the same room as Goku Son. He touched me! I can die! I can actually die!"
"No, you can't," Bulma said, almost angrily. "We're going to their rooms in an hour. We're spending an entire weekend with Green Dragon!" She couldn't help her excitement. Sure she was nervous beyond reason about Vegeta, but this was a chance of a lifetime. There was no way she wasn't going to be excited. "Where are our cameras? We need our cameras! I am not going to school on Monday without pictures of this weekend!"
"I think I'm in love," Krillin mumbled, obviously thinking of 18.
"You were already in love with her before the concert."
"I know. But now, I think I really am. Kami she's gorgeous."
"You know," Chi-Chi said, grabbing her make-up bag and a change of clothes; she was going to glam herself up some more before going to the hotel rooms. "I never thought something like this could happen to us. I mean, small city high school kids going to a concert and meeting their favorite band! When does that happen? And when are the bands actually this great? Not just some poster-friendly jerks. Have you thought about all this? Really let it sink in? In less than an hour we are all going to be in the hotel rooms of Green Dragon!"
"You know, Chi," Bulma laughed, "I think we have thought about it. We're never going to forget this weekend. And I have to confess something: I never thought 17 would be such a great guy in person. He has a great voice, and body, and everything—but he's hilarious too. And so nice, and friendly. He was always blurred out to Vegeta before."
"You make them sound like Supreme Beings." Chi-Chi let out a howling laugh, then ducked into the bathroom, calling, "But they are, aren't they! Supremely gorgeous!"
"I really like that Maris," Krillin said suddenly, kicking off his sneakers. He'd felt torn ever since he'd met her back in the mall. In the back of his mind he'd never forgotten her, only became distracted by Maron, and Maris was pushed further and further away. He was guilty for months when he thought more of Maris than Maron. And now it was 18 and Maris. He finally gets to meet 18, the woman of his deepest desires, and Maris is there too? What kind of a sick love tornado was Kami dropping him into?
"Yeah, me too," Bulma said, not sensing Krillin's discomfort in the least. "I can see us bringing her in. 17 was right, she is a real firecracker."
"Kami, we're talking about Green Dragon like they were old friends. I've been reeling for over 12 hours and I'm still not done. I don't care if I never sleep again."
"I'm glad they can't hear us like this. And by the way, great job being calm backstage. I never thought you or Chi-Chi could keep your cool in front of celebrities."
"Hard work," he laughed. "But, you're like a celebrity. I guess we had training."
"I am not a celebrity. I'm barely somebody at school."
"Bulma. Who doesn't know that name? Satan City adores you. All over Japan there's talk of Capsule Corp., Dr. Briefs, and his amazing daughter, Bulma, who's not only following in his footsteps, but making her own name for herself in the science world. Face it B, you're as famous as they come."
"Then why don't I feel famous? Where's the paperotsy? And the Tabloid slander? And the rumors that I'm dating some Movie Star?"
"You want all that?"
"No. I'm saying that I don't have that, and that's what famous people have."
"That's not true. There are plenty of famous people who we hardly hear about. And we hear about you and your father all the time."
"Correction, you hear about my father all the time. I'm barely mentioned. I'm a celebrity's daughter. That's all."
"Green Dragon knew your name."
"My name, not me."
"And who do you know that's famous? Really know?"
"I—" She stopped there.
"Exactly."
**********************************************************
Bulma starred at the miniscule black strapped dress in utter terror. It wouldn't cover past her knees, and the front would definitely reveal more than she did in a bathing suit. She shook her head furiously and swatted at the tiny piece of black fabric.
"I can't believe you actually think I'd wear something like that, Chi," she spat, brushing her hair into a loose ponytail. "I'm sorry, but I don't want some cheap moves to get a guy to notice me."
"Are you saying I'm cheap!" Chi-Chi was wearing a dress very similar to the one she'd wanted Bulma to wear, though hers was scarlet and had a slit up the side.
"No," Bulma sighed. Incoming headache. "I'm saying that I think that black dress is just a lure. You know why I stayed with Yamcha so long? 'Cause it was safe with him. I didn't need to go around looking for a guy and getting disappointed, 'cause I had one. I'm not very good at talking to guys and getting them interested in me. And I'm definitely not good at being sexy."
"What are you talking about?" Krillin piped in. He'd been channel surfing while waiting for Chi-Chi to finish getting ready, and simply couldn't stay out any longer. "You and Chi are the sexiest girls I know. You just hide it, B, that's all."
"Really?" Chi-Chi smiled. "Well I never thought I'd hear my best friend call me sexy and keep a straight face."
"I'm not kidding and I'm not shy about it with you two. I've known you too long to be shy when I tell you the truth."
"Do you think B should wear the dress?"
"No." Bulma gave him a thankful smile. "If she won't be comfortable then she shouldn't wear it. Besides, I agree with her about the guy thing. She thinks that if a guy is attracted to her it'll only be because she's wearing something like that, not because of who she is."
"Well I don't want guys to come to me 'cause of clothes like this, either. I like dressing up sometimes."
"Yeah, but who are you dressing up for tonight? At the concert you wore jeans and a tee-shirt. Just think for a minute; would Goku Son want a girl that changes her clothes every few hours? I don't think he's so complex."
"Krillin," she laughed. "You act like any of us have a shot with those guys. I'm just trying to enjoy my time with them, but I guess you're right. This dress is a little tight, and I can't move around very good. Maybe the jeans are more practical."
"Exactly," Bulma sighed. She pulled on her old tennis shoes and laced them up. "That's how I dress, practically. I don't dress for other people."
Chi-Chi dodged back into the bathroom to change back into her previous outfit. Just as that door shut, there was a knock at the door to the hallway. Bulma picked herself up off her bed and peered through the peephole.
"17!" she called, her smile broadening as he looked at her, though he could not see her. "I thought we were coming to you guys." Her heart was racing. How long could they all keep up their calm façades? Of course Green Dragon were regular, normal people, but how could anyone not be nervous around the famous?
"Well it's been over an hour and I'm sick of listening to Vegeta and Maris bicker on that game. He's so steamed that she's doing so well. Can I come in?"
"No!" she laughed, then swung open the door and stepped aside.
"Where's—" He paused for the smallest fraction of a second. "—Chi-Chi?"
Bulma nodded her head towards the bathroom. 17 only laughed. He could tell from the first moment he met Chi-Chi that she was that type of girl. He wondered why he hadn't remembered her name for a moment; she was all Goku had been talking about for the past hour.
"So, 17," Krillin said, sitting up and tossing the remote behind him on the bed. "When exactly did you all move out of Satan City?"
"About two years ago," he replied. He took a seat at the small desk he'd been standing beside.
"But wouldn't we have noticed you all in school? Orange Star is huge. All the kids from Satan City go there, and a whole bunch from the country too," Bulma said, thinking that she would never have missed so many beautiful guys.
"Nah. Vegeta was always too involved in his music to bother with school. He started putting the band together and never went to a single class at the High School; his mom tutors him now…And me, 18, and Goku were almost always home schooled. Goku by his grandfather, and me and 18 by our father, and then Vegeta's mother after he died…Vegeta's the only one that went to regular school passed 3rd grade. He dropped out right before High School."
"What schools did he attend?" she asked, trying her hardest not to sound too interested in him when 17 was sitting right there.
"Well his family lived in the heart of the city, so he went to Middle School somewhere around there. We all met in the 1st grade at Chibi Star—" Bulma's eyebrows furrowed. She'd gone to Chibi Star as well. Why hadn't she remembered those four? Surely they'd seen each other, and they must have lived close. She decided not to ask just now. "—then me, 18, and Goku we pulled after 3rd…Blah, blah, blah…It's not a very interesting story. Hey! Chi-Chi. Are you all ready now? I think 18's fallen asleep waiting."
"That's not funny," Chi-Chi snapped playfully, fighting to keep her frown. She too was feeling her heart beating faster than normal, and having trouble keeping her emotions in step.
Green Dragon's hotel room was several stories above Bulma, Chi-Chi, and Krillin's room. They took a special elevator that opened right up into the band's suite, of which 17 had a key. He explained when the doors opened that his room was straight forward and next to 18's, Goku's room was to the left, and Vegeta's to the right. The living room was where the elevator opened up to, and the kitchen and bathroom were to the left as well. He added that Goku always "needed" the room closest to the kitchen.
"18! Goku! Vegeta!" 17 called, finding no answer. "Hmm. Hey, Chi-Chi, go through that door into the kitchen and see if Goku's in there. I'll check his room." As he headed to the left he called over his shoulder, "Krillin my man, you go straight and find 18, and Bulma, you find Vegeta and Maris. I'll try to get them off that game soon."
They all departed in their separate directions, each wondering how the other was handling being in the hotel room of Green Dragon. Bulma wasted no time in venturing towards Vegeta and Maris. She did not like the idea of leaving them alone in the least.
Quietly she pushed open Vegeta's bedroom door, marveling first at its elegant appearance, and then at the size of the TV Maris was playing on. She sat on the edge of the couch, hammering away at the buttons of the controller, while Vegeta was laid back and glaring at the screen. Their backs were to her, though turned slightly so she could see the sides of their faces.
"Kuso!" Maris swore, startling Bulma. She decided to watch them for a moment and see what happened. "How do I use the Ice Sword? My fight button isn't working!"
"Oh," Vegeta laughed. "So I see you haven't read up on your oh-so-favorite game."
"I'm not a dork, Vegeta. I play. I'm good, great actually, but I don't 'read up' on games. I consider that cheating, and I'm definitely not a cheater." She'd since paused the game and was turned facing Vegeta, her face completely turned from Bulma now.
"It's not cheating, simpleton."
"Tell me how to use the Ice Sword. Why won't it work with the fight button?"
"We're in a bet here Miss Priss. I tell you nothing."
"I'll do that damn commercial for you, AND you can have something else for if I lose, though I won't."
"Fine."
"What do you want then?"
"Doesn't matter. You have to use the silver key to unlock that black box you found a few levels back. Whatever's in that box will make the sword work. Happy?" he grunted.
"Very."
Instantly she un-paused the game and again her fingers were ramming away at lightning speed. Bulma was about to voice her presence, when a loud hollow escaped Maris' lips.
"Holy Kami!" she cried, falling back into the couch cushions. Apparently she'd just beaten a level boss. "I couldn't have beaten her without that sword. I owe you Vegeta. Thanks so much!" And then suddenly she reached over, grabbed Vegeta's face, and pulled his head towards her for a quick kiss of gratitude, only when she pulled back a second later, Vegeta's hands were on the back of her head, holding her to him.
They fell into each other and sunk down in the couch, out of Bulma's view. She took a deep breath and closed the door, promising herself that she wasn't going to hate Maris out of jealousy.
"Stupid gaming bitch," she muttered, not being about to help herself. "How can you just kiss a member of Green Dragon!"
"Who kissed?" came 17's voice from across the room as he dragged Goku from the kitchen, a turkey leg clutched in his hand. Bulma looked at the floor. "Oh…" He glanced at the door Bulma had just exited. "VEGETAAAAA!!!!"
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---Chapter 3!! Woo! There you are! Hey, things are finally starting to heat up; too bad it's not with Bulma though. Damn Vegeta and his Vegeta-ness. Oh well, I promised a B/V, and that's what you'll get. Don't you people worry; I'm just getting warmed up. And yeah, I know, Maris seems a little two-faced, and slutty, but really she's not. It was an innocent kiss, or of excitement, and she didn't mean to hurt Bulma, she really likes her and the others. She's a good person, just gets caught in bad situations. I promise you'll like her in the end :P
REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Reviews=More Chapters)
Next time: Vegeta and ??? get into a vicious brawl and things get really ugly.