Ch 77

Goten was serving customers at the bakery when he heard the door open. Turning around, he spotted Bulma at the counter. He wondered what brought her by besides the pastries, but he let it go. Once it was time for his break, he went into the backroom, grabbed his snack, and made his way outside the bakery to see Bulma sitting on a bench.

"Hey Bulma," said Goten as he sat beside her. "Is everything ok?"

"I feel like this is all my fault Goten."

"How could it be Bulma?

"It wasn't easy raising Trunks, and I know Vegeta and I are responsible for how he turned out."

"He turned out great Bulma. You did a great job. You've always supported his dreams and the way he chose to live his life. Sure things haven't always been easy for him but he still loves his family."

"Thank you Goten that makes me feel better. Anyway, how have you been doing?"

"I'm ok. I miss Trunks, but I know this is for the best right now. I rented the space above the bakery, so I'm close to work."

"Well that's good," said Bulma as she got up. "I should get home."

Goten stood up. "How's Trunks doing?"

"I sent him away to Baba's house. He just couldn't handle being in his house without you. He'll be by every now and then to the office to make sure everything is running smoothly."

"Oh well I guess some distance from here will do him some good."

"A new environment is just what he needs to get himself back on track."

"I agree. I just hope Baba doesn't drive him too crazy," Goten laughed.

"Well Trunks does have to help around the house and you know how good he is with chores," Bulma smiled.

"I have to admit he does do a good job cleaning when you're able to convince him to do it."

"It's been hard for you to, hasn't it Goten?"

Goten looked at his watch. "I have to get back Bulma."

"All right. Just don't be afraid to come by every once and a while to visit."

"I won't Bulma. I promise."

Goten didn't feel like going up to his apartment over the bakery just yet. He wandered the city, searching for something to take his mind off Trunks, but it didn't work. The city reminded him of Trunks and the great times they had together goofing off.

"Goten."

"Hey Uub, Bulla."

"You want to hang out with us?" asked Bulla.

"I don't know if I'm going to be much company."

"We're going to get some dinner," said Uub as Goten's stomach rumbled.

Goten laughed nervously. "I—I guess I could eat."

Uub and Bulla watched Goten stuff his face at a speed that fascinated and disgusted them at the same time, but they couldn't really blame him. They watched as he raised his head to them and blushed in embarrassment.

"I'm still not use to how much saiyans can put into their bodies," said Uub.

"I'm glad my appetite is regular," said Bulla. "It hurts my stomach just to see dad and Trunks eat."

"I don't mean to eat so quickly in public places, but I can't help it," said Goten.

"You definitely have Goku's appetite for sure," said Uub.

"Yeah," Goten smiled.

"So, how's your brother taking all this?" asked Bulla.

"Honestly he says he wants to support my decision to stay with Trunks but I can tell he's thinking I've gone insane. He just doesn't understand the connection Trunks and I have."

"My brother hurt you, and it's understandable that Gohan is concerned about you. He wouldn't be a good brother if he didn't care at all."

"I know but a part of me feels like it's mom all over again. You know before she accepted my relationship with Trunks."

"Ok, but I don't think Gohan would do anything to jeopardize your relationship with Trunks."

"True. I think with dad and mom gone, he's just a bit more protective of me. I mean I'm a grown man."

"True," Bulla smiled, "but we can't stop our big brothers from being who they are. They only want what's best for us."