***Chapter 16***
''Pan! You have to listen to Uncle Trunks and Akira ok? They're in charge while we're gone!'' Videl was instructing her daughter.
''Videl, go! We'll be fine!'' Said Akira for the thousandth time nudging her friends out the door. Gohan and Videl desperately needed this break. A car was waiting for them outside their home. Trunks had arranged everything, from the ride, to the yacht with a romantic dinner at sunset and a mini cruise that would only bring them home the next day. He was aware they both could just fly back but he figured if his and Akira's plan worked, they wouldn't need to. They wouldn't want to.
''Aki! Dance with me!'' The toddler requested while pulling the woman to the middle of the living room. She obliged. Trunks was in the kitchen ordering some pizza. She didn't notice him coming back. When she finally sensed him, he was leaning on one side of the doorway, a slight grin at the corner of his mouth. Akira blushed.
When the pizza arrived, they set it on the living room table and sat on the floor. Pan climbed in Akira's lap.
''Aki? Are you and Uncle Trunks getting married?''
Trunks choked on his food.
''Naw Pan! I'm not getting married. I would make a terrible housewife don't you think?'' She winked at the little girl.
Soon after, they both went to tuck the toddler in bed. She was exhausted from all the playing and laughter. So were Akira and Trunks. Babysitting a toddler, especially one like Pan, was a lot of work.
Slumping down on the couch at the opposite end, Akira quickly dozed off. Trunks was watching TV. He had taken a blanket and covered the dark-haired woman, not daring to move her. He knew sleep did not come easy to her, same as for him.
He heard little feet making their way to the living room. Pan had woken up. Without saying a single word, she had looked at her uncle. His silence gave her the approval she was seeking. She climbed up on Akira, laying down on her stomach against the older girl's body and quietly dozed back to sleep. Trunks watched the girls sleep snuggled up with one another until he fell asleep in his sitting position.
She had left again for some more training with the Gods. Akira came back a week later than planned, getting home quite late. She went straight to her room silently to not wake anyone. She heard Bulla wiggle and babble in her crib, she cracked the door open a little and sent a little Ki swirl towards the baby, caressing her cheek and booping her nose. The baby giggled and settled back to sleep.
The next morning, she found Bulma sitting at the kitchen table with Bulla on her lap. The baby instantly lifted her arms towards the girl.
''She just woke up, Bulla! Give her a minute!''
Akira zoomed straight to where she was being called and picked up the bundle. Bulla grabbed at her long hair, tucking it not too gently. ''Ow! I missed you too Bulla!''
''You're great with her…'' Said Bulma, a hint of sadness in her voice. ''Well with all the kids, even the grown ones!''
''It's not hard. They see the best in people. They don't know all the horrible things I've done and if they did they probably wouldn't understand the implications of it all.''
''Did you talk to Trunks yet?'' The blue haired heiress asked, changing the grim subject.
''No, I didn't want to bother him. He had told me the next few months were going to be really busy at work. He said something about acquisitions and contracts, I didn't quite catch all of it.'' She sat down looking a little defeated. Looking at Bulma's grin, Akira raised an eyebrow.
''I have an idea. Go get ready. You're going out. Wear that blue plaid summer dress you got last time!'' Ordered the older woman, grabbing Bulla to free Akira's hands and almost running out of the kitchen.
An hour later, Akira was standing in front of the Capsule Corp head office building. Bulma had a driver drop her off. She had never been there before. The building was so tall, it looked like it was going to touch the passing clouds. Hesitating a little, she stepped inside. Taking the time to look all around, she felt even smaller than usual. Everything was so big and wide and spacious.
A security guard who had been eyeing her the moment she had stepped in was coming her way. ''Can I help you Miss?''
''Hm, I think so?'' Bulma had told her what to say to the staff at the entrance. ''Mrs. Bulma sent me. I have a delivery for Trunks.'' She replied, still looking around in marvel.
Raising an eyebrow at her strange behavior, he led her to the main desk. A gorgeous girl was typing at a computer behind the counter. ''Lucinda, she says Mrs. Bulma sent her and she has something for Mr. Briefs.''
The girl jerked up at the mention of the CEO. She eyed Akira from head to toe. ''Hi?'' Akira didn't know what the proper etiquette for this kind of situation was.
The other girl snorted. ''Right.''
''Bulma said you'd probably say that. She told me to have you call her secretary.'' The receptionist was gobsmacked at the request. She picked up the phone and dialed an extension. After a few exchanged words, she lifted her head while putting the phone down. ''Jura, key her in for the top floor.'' She grumbled.
When the elevator doors finally opened, revealing the top floor, Akira slowly stepped out, trying to sense for Trunks' Ki. He wasn't there. She slowly walked the short corridor leading to what seemed to be another reception area.
''Hello. My name is Janice, how may I help you?'' The middle aged lady had greeted her. No one made it to the top floor unless given access from below and if Lucinda had let her up, it meant she had the clearance to be here. She smiled at Akira who was looking all around her in awe.
''Oh hi! I'm sorry Janice. I'm Akira.. erm.. a friend of the Briefs family….'' The older lady nodded. She knew who she was the moment she had set foot on this floor. She had seen the change in her boss. She had booked the restaurant a month ago at his request too. The girl was gorgeous but that did not surprise her. All the girls who had ever shown up here, whether invited or not, had been good looking. Something was different about this one though. She was so natural. She wasn't even wearing any makeup and looked so simple and cute in her summer dress compared to all the previous ones in their designer clothes.
''Mr. Briefs is in a meeting dear. It's running a little late. He should be out in a few minutes. You can sit down if you'd like. Can I offer you a coffee?'' Akira nodded. Coffee was always a good idea!
''Yes please.'' She replied, still mesmerized by her surroundings. When Janice returned with a cup of coffee, she noticed Akira was still standing looking closely at the paintings on the wall. Akira felt her Ki get closer and turned to face her. ''Thank you Janice! Oh you're not having one too?'' Janice decided right that instant that she liked this girl. None of the others had ever remembered her name, let alone asked her to have coffee with them. She watched as the sweet young woman took a sip and grimaced a little. ''Oh no! Is something wrong?''
''No no it's fine, I just burned my tongue a little. Thank you again!'' Akira lied not wanting to hurt the nice lady's feelings. She had been really sweet to her. She took a seat in one of the huge chairs in the waiting area and put her cup on the table.
A few minutes later, the elevator doors pinged and Trunks stormed out looking down. He was in a bad mood, Akira could tell. He passed the reception, never noticing her. ''Janice. Hold all my calls.'' He mumbled as he walked into his office, closing the door behind him. Janice blinked a few times at the situation and lifted her index finger to Akira indicating to wait a minute. She picked up the phone and dialed.
''Mr. Briefs. Someone is here for you. No I know it wasn't in your calendar Sir. Yes they got clearance. No, they simply said they were bringing something from Mrs. Bulma. If I may be a little forward, Mr. Briefs, you should probably come see for yourself.'' She advised, her smile noticeable in her tone.
It only took a moment for Trunks' door to open. He stepped out looking towards his secretary. He couldn't see the waiting area from there. ''What is it Janice?'' He still sounded angry. He lifted an eyebrow when his secretary merely pointed to the sitting area, a smile spreading from ear to ear. He scoffed a little and walked out. When he saw her, his breath caught in his throat for a moment. She wasn't looking towards him. She was too mesmerized by her surroundings to notice him. When he got closer he noticed the coffee cup on the table. She had drunk half, but it was black. ''1 spoon of sugar and a dash of milk.'' He said, startling her. ''Janice. Next time, 1 spoon of sugar and a dash of milk for Ms Akira's coffee.'' Trunks said to his secretary barely turning his head towards her, his eyes never leaving the girl in front of him.
''Ki?''
She smiled. ''Yeah Trunks?''
''When did you come back?''
''Last night. Late. I remembered you told me you had a lot of work in the next few weeks last time we spoke so I didn't want to bother you in case you were sleeping.'' She stood up facing him. They were close enough to be within each other's reach but not nearly as close enough as Trunks would have liked.
''Ki?''
''Yeah Trunks?'' She giggled. His heart melted, all his anger was gone.
He leaned in and whispered in her ear. ''You never bother me. You can't bother me because you're more important than any of this.''
His breath slid down her neck making her shiver slightly. He took a deep breath in, taking in her scent. That sweet floral smell of Gardenia. He felt her breath catch in her throat and smiled. He didn't move.
''Trunks?''
''Hmm?'' He was so close to her.
''Bulma sent me to give you this.'' She said, opening her palm, revealing two capsules. ''She said it was very important.'' Why had his Mother sent Akira for this, she could have easily sent a runner to get and deliver them. The phone rang in the distance.
''Mr. Briefs. I'm so sorry to interrupt, but your 10am is on the line. Would you like me to take a message perhaps?''
Trunks sighed and straightened himself up.
''No Trunks, you should get this. I was just here to give you these. Bulma said the driver would take me back home. If you don't finish too late…'' she started but he cut her off.
''Knowing you're back, I'll make sure not to finish too late.''
''Trunks?''
''Hmm?'' he was staring at her. His ocean blue eyes diving in the abyss of her black ones.
She blushed. ''You should go.''
He nodded knowing she was right and made his way back to his office, turning to look at her one last time before he reached his door. ''See you later Ki.''
Once Janice noticed he had picked up the line, she got up and went to get Akira a new cup of coffee with 1 spoon of sugar and a dash of milk. ''Miss Akira, please.'' She handed her the cup.
''Oh no you really didn't have to redo it for me! I'm sorry, is it because of what Trunks said? Will you be in trouble after I leave? I can talk to him.''
The middle-aged lady was caught off guard by the fact Akira was worried Trunks would be upset. All the other girls didn't even bother looking at her. She was only a means to get to the rich CEO. She had never seen her boss so smitten with a girl before. He was soft and gentle with this one. She could understand why, not only was she perfect physically, she seemed to be a sweetheart. ''Sit for a few minutes dear. Finish your coffee. There's no point in rushing out.''
After finishing her coffee, Akira brought her mug back to the sink in the coffee nook and washed it under Janice's surprised stare.
''Thank you so much Janice! I was so happy to meet you!'' Akira said, stopping in front of the desk, a genuine smile on her face.
''Oh likewise Miss Akira.'' Janice replied, watching the young woman make her way back to the elevators and pressing the button.
It pinged and the doors opened slowly. At that moment, Trunks' door opened and he rushed out. He saw Janice pointing at the elevators motioning to act quickly.
''Ki wait!'' He yelled as he ran towards the closing elevator doors catching them at the last minute forcing them to reopen. He grabbed Akira's hands and pulled her back out. She was silent, a confused look on her face.
''You could have hurt your hand!'' She finally said, making him chuckle.
''My hand is fine. Janice. Do I…''
''No Mister Briefs, nothing that can't be moved to later this week.'' She finished for him. He nodded without looking at her. ''Very well, I will cancel all your appointments for the rest of the day. Have a great day, Sir!'' She seemed as happy as if she was the one getting the day off.
He pulled Akira back towards the waiting area and motioned for her to give him a minute. He backed away to his office and came back out a few minutes later. He had changed. He wasn't wearing his suit anymore. He sported a pair of jeans and a blue t-shirt with a pair of sneakers. Akira's heart skipped a beat as he passed his hand through his lavender locks and smiled at her. He took her hand and walked to the elevator. They made their way to the lobby and he stepped out, never letting go of her hand. Lucinda almost fell off her chair at the sight of him. ''Jura.'' He nodded. The security guard returned the gesture. ''Mr. Briefs.''
''Bye Jura!'' said Akira while being practically dragged towards the front doors.
The capsules Bulma had sent to Trunks contained a picnic with all the requirements; the wine, the food, the blanket; while the second one had only a change of clothes for him and a note.
You work too hard. You need to live a little. Treat her right.
I know my future self raised a gentleman.
Love, Bulma
They walked for a little while. He hadn't let go of her hand until she saw a statue at the entrance of a park. She had let go and walked closer to it. Looking at it with such interest, Trunks almost got jealous.
His eyes settled on her. He noticed she was wearing white sneakers and smiled. She hated heels. His eyes slowly moved up her legs. She was wearing a blue plaid summer dress that stopped at the top of her calves. The last piece flared a little looser than the rest. Her right hand was in her pocket, her bracelet resting on the top of the opening. His eyes followed the curve of her waist, the dress hugged her upper body like a glove. The front bustier top had little buttons from the waist seam all the way to the top. His eyes followed the buttons and landed on her breasts perfectly displayed by the top that dipped slightly in the middle. He could see the shadow of lace under her dress straps. He growled under his breath. Her neck was bare. His eyes lingered on her neck before following her jawline. Her lush black hair was down with only a few side strands pulled up, reaching behind as if to ensure her neck was on full display waiting for him to kiss his way up until he reached her lips. She was wearing her Potara earrings and the ear cuff a little higher on one of her ears. He had never been so attracted to anyone in his whole life. She did something to his whole being as if lighting his body and soul on fire every time he merely looked at her. She was perfect.
''It's rude to snoop.'' He heard, snapping out of his thoughts. He smiled.
They walked through the busy streets, passing little shops and cafes. She was engrossed by every little thing she saw. She had never really been out and about during the day just going through the motion of normal life. His heart pinched a little at the thought. All the things people, including him, took for granted on a daily basis, seemed to amaze her and make her eyes sparkle. They eventually stopped in a park and settled on the picnic blanket. She looked divine, the tree they had settled under, making the sun and shade dance together on her skin as the branches moved with the breeze. They mainly talked about the last month. Conversation was never hard between them. When she was sitting down, her hair almost touched the ground behind her. Trunks imagined what her hair would look like sprawled on his bed. He couldn't help it, his body instinctively reacted to her. They went around the plaza with the street market, he took advantage of her being focused on a street performer to buy her something, quickly hiding it in his pocket. The sun was starting to set so Trunks gently dragged her to the huge ferris wheel. He climbed in before her and reached his hand out to help her in. The open gondolas allowed people to sit or stand at their leisure. She was too excited to stay in place so she stood facing out. He leaned his back to the gondola rail next to her. He didn't really care about the view in front. He only wanted to look at her. She blushed at all the attention he was giving her. The pink and orange hues of the sunset made her already tanned skin sparkle, softening the darkness of her hair. Once they reached the top, the wheel stopped to allow the passengers to take in the view of the city. The sun had almost completely set by that time. The city lights were starting to glimmer under them. She took a deep breath in, taking in the beauty of the scene. He straightened himself and gently, slowly turned towards her, reaching his arm across to stand behind her. His arms rested on the railing on each side of her body as if trapping her between them without touching her. He felt her breathing quicken at his proximity. It took all his restraint to stop him from closing his arms around her body and nuzzling her neck. They stayed like this until they came back down, neither of them really wanting the moment to end. Night had fully settled by the time they stepped off the ride.
''Are you hungry?'' He asked. She nodded. They settled on grabbing a few things here and there from little corner stores or street food trucks. They ate in silence, taking turns glancing at one another. Trunks had picked up some strawberries, unsure if she had ever tasted them, and a bottle of wine.
''I have until 1am to get you home right?'' The sound of her laughter coursed through his body, rocking every inch and settling in his pants. How could a laugh be such a turn on?
He noticed her biting her lower lip when he ran his fingers through his lavender hair to clear his face.
''I want to show you something.''
''There's more?'' She asked innocently.
He led her to a quiet side street. He turned to face her and placed his hands on each side of her frame. ''Hold on.''
''Trunks.. I can fly.. you know.'' She chuckled.
''I know. But you don't know where we're going.'' He resorted to picking her up bride style. He wanted to see her face every chance he got. She giggled and blushed but settled quickly in his arms. She was pressed against him and eventually leaned her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat. The flight wasn't long and he soon touched down on top of a cliff overseeing the ocean. He got the picnic blanket out and set it close to the drop. From there they could hear the waves gently lapping at the sandy shore below. There was no artificial lighting as far as they could see. It was dark but something about it made it feel almost soothing. He set the wine and the strawberries down and they sat down. He had been right. She had yet to try strawberries and based on her reaction, she liked them as much as coffee and brownies. Trunks took a mental note of that. He poured some wine in the glasses Bulma had packed in their earlier picnic. They drank and ate to the sound of the ocean's music.
Laying down on his back, Trunks put his hands under his head. Every time he moved his arms up it made his muscles flex a little sending a shock through Akira's body. Now laying down, his shirt had lifted slightly exposing a peek of his perfectly toned abs.
''Ki?''
''Yeah Trunks'' She stuttered, earning her an amused look.
''Lay down. This is what I wanted to show you.'' He motioned for her to lay down next to him. She let herself slide on her back, placing her hands on her midsection. That's when she saw it. The darkness of the night sky speckled by thousands of stars. The moon was at its first croissant, amplifying the brightness of the starlight. She took a deep breath in.
''Trunks?''
''Hmm'' He answered, turning his head to look at her. She was so close to him.
''It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.'' She whispered breathily.
Still looking at her, he replied. ''I agree.'' He wasn't talking about the night sky though. ''I have something for you.'' He said, pulling himself to a sitting position. She followed his lead. He pulled the delicate chain holding a clear pendant from his pocket. Floating inside the pendant, were tiny little stars that glistened under the dim light. ''This way you can see the stars anytime you want.''
''Oh Trunks! It's… '' Her eyes filled with water. No one had ever given her a gift. A real gift. Not some way of trapping her. A tear rolled down her cheek.
''I didn't want to make you cry.'' He cupped her cheek gently wiping the tear away. She looked down. He slid his hand under her chin. The slow caress made her heart do somersaults. ''Ki.'' He said gently lifting her chin up. He was so close to her, their nose almost touching. Her eyes, the same shade as the sky, ran across his face, taking him in and rested on his lips as if frozen in time. He moved the hand that was under her chin forward, following her jawbone to where it met her ear. His thumb caressing her cheek while his other fingers gently played with her hair. He looked in her eyes as if searching for a sign giving him permission to follow through. Her breath hitched as his fingers went down to her neck and gently came back up. He didn't need more. He slowly, gently, pressed his lips to hers, as if testing the action. He pecked her lips once, twice. He pulled away to make sure she was ok. Her eyes were still closed. She slowly opened them, the fire in them meeting the blue of his own eyes.
''Trunks?''
''Hmm?''
She reached her hand up placing it at the base of his neck and leaned in to return his butterfly kisses. Except this time, as soon as her lips met his, her hand slid up behind his head, pulling him closer, crushing her lips to his. He kissed her back with all the passion he had been holding back for so long. Their mouths moving together in perfect unison. She gently parted her lips giving his tongue access to hers. He pulled her closer, closing the gap between their bodies. Her arms hugged around his neck while he tangled one hand in her long hair, pressing her head closer to his, while the other arm laced around her waist pressing her body against his. He pulled away for a second to take in all her beauty. Her lips were a little swollen and redder than usual from the assault of his. When she saw the way he was looking at her, she bit her bottom lip. A low appreciative growl escaped his lips making the fire in her eyes burn brighter. Their lips met again, pouring all their passion into their exchange. She bit on his lower lip, making him growl even louder. His hand tangled in her hair at the back of her head pushed her face to his. Her fingers were tangled in his own lavender hair, their kiss becoming hungrier. He tucked at her locks, jerking her head slightly back. Giving him access to her neck. He trailed kisses along her jawline, slowly moving down to her neck, his breath and his light kisses making her vibrate under his touch. He kissed her neck, up and down her right side, then, shifting her head sides, kissed her left side. Always stopping before the collarbone. She was giving him access to every inch of her neck. His kisses became harder, more passionate, suckling and nibbling at her skin. His hand was now between her shoulder blades pressing her body against his. It didn't feel close enough. He trailed his mouth down on her bare neck, all the way to her shoulder, passing his tongue gently over her collarbone. Feeling her shudder in reaction, he grinned against her skin. His fingers hooked the strap of her dress gently pulling it down to give him access to every inch. He felt the lace of her bra under his fingers.
''You drive me crazy!'' He nuzzled her neck and when he spoke, his breath came out warm in the crook of her neck, the tiniest moan escaping her lips.
''Trunks'' she said, almost panting. He loved how his name sounded on her tongue especially in the heat of passion. He brought his mouth back up to hers. Her hand was rubbing up and down on his chest all the way over his shoulder to his back. It had the same effect on his crotch as if she had been stroking it directly. He hardened under her.
He was trying to will himself to stop. He knew if he continued, he soon wouldn't be able to stop. But she tastes so good! He wanted to run his tongue and lips over every inch of her body, licking and kissing his way down until she moaned his name in ecstasy.
He had to stop. She deserved better than this. Not like this. Her body deserved to be worshiped. Every inch of her.
He reluctantly stopped and laid his forehead on her bare shoulder.
''Trunks?'' Her breath still staggered, a tiny rasp in her voice, her heart rate making her chest move up and down faster, making her breasts rub against his chest. He heard the question she hadn't asked in the way she said his name.
Lifting his head and leaning his forehead against hers, he was also trying to catch his breath. ''Ki, I'm sorry I shouldn't have gotten so carried away. I don't want to rush anything.'' He rubbed the side of her face with his hand and kissed her forehead.
A look mixing disappointment and relief crossed her face. She nodded gently. ''Maybe it's better we take things slow.'' She confirmed.
She was still against his body, he gently hugged her and laid them both down on the cover. He just wanted to feel her in his arms. She was happy to rest her head on his chest for a while.
''I should take you home before Vegeta realizes it's almost 1am and comes looking for blood. My blood.'' He joked. It made her laugh at the irony of what he was saying. Vegeta was his father, not hers.
He picked her up in his arms again. She was able to fly alone. She scoffed but did not resist, wrapping her arms around his shoulders, resting her head on his chest. When he landed at Capsule Corp, she woke up, realizing she had dozed off in his embrace. When he had seen her asleep, he had made his way to her balcony with the intention of tucking her in bed without waking her.
''Stay.''
''Ki. I'm not sure that's a good idea…'' How did she expect him to keep his hands off of her if he laid in the same bed?
''Please. When you're there, my demons don't come find me in my dreams.'' His heart shattered hearing her honesty. She had the same effect on him. When she was around, he would dream rather than be overcome by his nightmares.
Kami was his strength and self-restraint being tested as of late. But she was worth it.
He lay down at the opposite side of the bed, on his side, their back to each other. She had changed into short pajama bottoms and a tank top. He felt her shift and turn. Her breathing had slowed as sleep was overcoming her. She reached her arm and scooted slightly over, just enough for her hand to touch his back. He turned, put one hand under her shoulder and the other slid between her legs, reaching all the way to her lower back. He picked her up and pulled her closer to him. Close enough for her to fall asleep in his arms, her head on his chest, while he drifted into slumber, his nose in her hair, the smell of flowers filling his soul.
When she woke up the next morning, he was once again gone. Akira pouted to herself. She found a note on her nightstand.
Good morning Sunshine,
I figured it was best to leave before Vegeta woke up
And sensed my Ki… in your bed.
Yesterday was perfect. You are perfect.
See you tonight.
Trunks
What would be so bad about Trunks sharing her bed that would upset Vegeta? They were both adults and Vegeta didn't seem that old fashioned. Bulma had even said her and Vegeta had Trunks before they were married. She smoothed the line between her brows and relaxed her expression dismissing the question.
He had placed the necklace under the note. She took it in her hand and sighed. She couldn't explain what was happening inside her head, her heart or even her soul. It felt all mooshy, heavy and light at the same time. Securing the necklace around her neck, she heard Vegeta's voice on the other side of the door.
''You up, Brat? Want to train?'' She smiled. He knew the answer but still had asked.
Trunks knocked at the door and smiled when Videl opened to let him in with a worried look on her face. His hair was slightly tousled, and his clothes held a few wrinkles. It was obvious he hadn't slept at home.
''Hey sorry to just drop by so early in the morning.''
''Everything ok Trunks?'' She asked, feeling Gohan's hand on her waist as he came to stand next to her.
''Yeah.. why?'' He smiled. He wasn't sure what they seemed so worried about.
''Uncle Trunks! Why are you here so early? Is Aki with you?!'' The toddler circled around him trying to see if her friend was maybe hiding behind. Her face fell when she realized there was no one else.
''Hey Panpan! You know I'm going to start taking it personal that you never seem happy to see JUST me anymore.'' He teased, grabbing gently at her nose.
''I'm always happy to see you Uncle Trunks! But…''
''You love Akira more?!'' He feigned being hurt then chuckled.
''I love Aki! She's the best!'' He nodded, he thought so too.
Videl picked up Pan. ''Let's get you ready for school Missy.''
''Bye Uncle Trunks! Love you!''
''Bye Squishy! Love you too.''
Once they were alone, Gohan poured a second cup of coffee, placing it on the table across from where he had been sitting. Both men sat down.
''Gohan..'' He saw a worried look cross his friend's face. Why did everyone seemed to think that he constantly fucked up. Probably because he had fucked up a few times…with Akira. ''Gohan, I don't know what's happening to me. She's driving me completely insane.''
The younger demi-Saiyan released the breath he was holding and raised both eyebrows at his friend.
''I hadn't seen her in over a month and the moment I laid my eyes on her, it's like…''
''You could finally breathe again.'' He finished for him.
''Yeah. It all happened so fast. I feel like a freaking teenager around her.''
''She's a pretty girl Trunks. You've always had a weakness for beauty.'' By always Gohan implied in the last couple of years. The Trunks before that, that would visit from time to time from his own timeline, was almost a completely different man. Gohan could still see that Trunks in the friend sitting across from him, he just wasn't sure Trunks could see his true self. He had been blinded by grief and pain for so long, making him almost bitter and so cold. Gohan lifted his gaze to face the man who had become his closest friend in the past years, despite everything.
Trunks scoffed, shaking his head. ''No. I mean yes she's pretty. Very pretty.'' He remembered how she had looked under the sunset on the ferris wheel. His heart grew a little bigger. ''I've never felt this way before.''
It was too early to beat around the bush. ''Not even with Mai?'' Asked Gohan, surprised at his friend's head shake.
''The way she looks at everything with wonder and awe makes me want to take her everywhere and show her everything.'' Gohan understood that his friend looked at Akira the same way he was explaining how the girl looked at the world. ''She makes me want to drop everything just to be with her.'' Gohan smiled, he felt like that about Videl, always looking forward to the moment he could leave work to go home to his wife. The thought made his eyebrow jerk up. Trunks didn't notice. He was looking at the coffee in his mug lost in his own thoughts. ''She makes me want to let go of everything to make room for just her.''
''Trunks. Bud.. it's a slippery slope, you know what's happening right?'' He eyed his friend. ''You're falling in love with her.''
''I'm falling even more in love with her by the minute Gohan.'' He admitted not bothering hiding it anymore. Not from his friend, not from himself. He rubbed his face with his hands and sighed. ''I'm fucked aren't I?''
''No! Why would you say that? Obviously her situation is a little complicated but it's not like anything in our lives was ever simple. You come from the fucking future Trunks!'' The profanity in his statement made Trunks chuckle. Gohan was always so proper, so composed. Hearing him utter a bad word was very unusual. He had a point though. ''I never thought I'd see the day where Trunks Vegeta Briefs, CEO of Capsule Corp, would come to me for relationship advice.'' He teased.
Akira felt light as if floating on a cloud all day. Bulma had smiled at the girl's expression and how she kept reaching to touch the pendant sitting in the middle of her sternum. She remembered when she had first fallen for Vegeta and had finally cracked his hard shell. The moment he had let her in, she was his forever. He had given her access to a part of him no one else knew even existed.
''Akira.'' The older woman spoke softly. ''He's a good boy. Man.'' She corrected. This Trunks was a man physically and emotionally. ''He messed up a few times and chances are, he'll mess up again.'' She felt a pang of guilt at the feeling of throwing him under the bus. ''He's been through a lot. His heart beating only out of necessity. He's lost everything and even before that, his life was a constant battle, constant pain. He tried with all he had to defend his world and the feeling of failure swallowed almost all his humanity a bit more each day…'' She paused looking at Akira's expression. She seemed crushed by what Bulma was telling her. ''Until.. you came around. When he's around you, the old Trunks that still had fight in him, that still had life in him resurfaces. You ignited the little spark he had left inside, feeding it with your fire.''
Akira had stopped breathing long ago. No longer able to hold her breath she exhaled. ''I'm scared Bulma.'' She admitted.
''I know you are. But so is he. Be patient with one another.'' Kami knew her patience had stretched so thin and then stretched some more waiting for Vegeta. ''I know I'm not his real mother but he is my son nonetheless and I love him despite his rough edges. They have grown sharp by his sorrow. Please be gentle with his heart.''
Akira didn't reply. Simply nodded. Her heart ached for him even more.
Sitting at his desk, Trunks was eyeing the clock, wishing the minutes and hours to pass faster. He picked up his phone.
Ki?
Yeah?
His eyebrows quirked up at the unfamiliarity of her reply. She hadn't typed his name.
What's wrong? It felt like forever before he heard his phone ping.
Nothing. Just… thinking.
Of me? He was mostly joking but deep down he begged for her answer to be yes.
And why would I think of you Trunks?
He knew she was joking. She wasn't snarky enough to reply something like this seriously.
Because all I can think about is you
That sounds like a ''you'' problem Mr. Briefs
It most definitely is, until I see you
Her heart skipped.
I'll be waiting, but I'm not a very patient girl
He smiled at her comment. She had been more than patient with him so far.
As soon as he parked his car in the garage, he darted inside looking for her.
''She's outside.'' He heard Vegeta say, his head shoved in the fridge. He had sensed his Ki.
Not wasting a single second, Trunks pushed the door leading to the yard. His eyes landed on her standing by the pool. She was wearing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt that stopped a few inches above the waist of her pants, displaying her toned abs. He felt something inside him twist. He went straight for her, forgetting everything else. When he was finally close enough, he grabbed her by the waist, and turned her to face him. She was smiling. She had known the moment he had arrived. Without any hesitation, he moved one of his hands up her back, grabbing the base of her neck and crushed his mouth to hers. He felt her surprise but she immediately relaxed in his arms. Her arms found their way around his neck as she deepened their kiss pressing her body against him. He felt her lips curl into a smile under his.
''WOAH! My Trunks never kisses me like that!'' Amaya pouted from the pool making her boyfriend scoff loudly and everyone else laughed.
Everyone else? Shit. Who else was there? He quickly realized he didn't really care as long as she was there. He kissed her again a little gentler this time. He couldn't get himself all worked up, his resolve would eventually fail him, he was sure of it.
''Hi.'' He breathed the word between kisses.
She giggled. ''Hi. Rough day?''
''A little but it took a drastically positive turn the moment I got here.'' He kissed her again making her smile widen further. He noticed the necklace around her neck. ''I would love to stay like this forever.. but we should talk?'' She nodded a serious expression on her face. He took her hand in his and led her to the other side of the huge yard. They sat on the shore of the pond. He was still wearing his suit pants and his button-down shirt had the few top buttons undone, his sleeves rolled up. His hair had started to grow, she noticed as his lavender locks danced with the breeze. He was looking straight ahead. ''Ki, if you don't stop looking at me like that, we won't be able to do much talking.'' He smirked. She blushed and turned to stare at the surface of the calm water.
They stayed silent for a few minutes. Neither seemed to mind, both having experienced loneliness and solitude.
Finally Trunks sighed. ''Ki, we need to talk about this. About us.''
''Ok.'' She simply said. He was going to have to give her a few pointers. ''Trunks. I've never done this before, any of this, you're going to have to be more specific.''
''We can start with how you feel about me?''
''I thought that part was pretty obvious.'' She meant it. He chuckled.
''Ki, I'm falling for you. Hard.'' He brushed his fingers through his hair.
She didn't respond right away. He still wasn't looking at her.
She inhaled and softly said ''I don't know what that means Trunks.'' Her cheeks flushed. She bent her knees bringing them closer to her. She wrapped her arms around her knees. She was closing herself up.
He hadn't understood her answer fully at first but seeing her body language, it hit him like a ton of bricks. She didn't know anything about feelings, she was never allowed to show any nor shown any. She was treated like an object, a weapon all her life.
Putting his hand over hers, he leaned his head down wanting her to look at him. ''It means you make me happy. Around you I feel free, and the void I felt inside before disappears. When I'm away from you, you're the only thing I can think of. You make my life better. You make me better. I need to know if you feel the same way.''
She slowly lifted her head but didn't turn to look at him. He couldn't read her expression.
''Not the same way.'' His heart sank. ''But similar I guess?'' He exhaled.
''Talk to me.''
''Ehm.. You make me giddy inside. I feel fluttering in my stomach when I'm close to you or think of you. I get the same feeling as when you take a deep inhale filling your lungs and then slowly exhale. The anger inside simmers down. When you look at me, I forget all the wrong I've done. I forget my powers, I forget everything. There's just you. Only you. I've never felt scared before yet when you hold me, I feel safe.''
His heart had grown two sizes at hearing her describe her feelings for him. He slid his fingers between hers, her hand still on her knee. ''And then there's that.'' She added looking at their intertwined fingers.
''Our hands? Me touching you? Am I going too fast?'' He quickly removed his hand from hers.
She looked straight at him. Her lower lip pouted even more. ''You set my body on fire. When I'm in your arms, our bodies against each other, it still doesn't feel close enough. It feels amazing. I just.. never felt like that before so it's a little scary too.''
The last part resonated in his head. ''Kelian… I mean you and him had been intimate so you must have touched each other…''
''Not quite.'' She winced. She hadn't planned on sharing all this with anyone. ''Kelian never held me, nor before and definitely not after. He never kissed me the way you do. He wasn't a gentle lover. He took what he wanted and left.'' She suddenly felt disgusted by herself.
He felt his anger rise. ''He didn't deserve you.''
''It's fine. It's in the past. I was 16 and I thought this was what a relationship was supposed to be like. I didn't know better. He seemed… content.'' He winced. He had never made the calculation after they found out her age. He wished he could travel to OtherWorld just to kill Kelian himself.
''Wait, rewind. He seemed content? Hm, what about you? Did you not enjoy any of it? Did he hurt you?'' His questions were pouring out, his anger rising again.
''Trunks, relax. He didn't force me into anything. I was just an idiot.'' She put her hand over his. ''Sex isn't described in much detail other than anatomy, in the science books I've read, it's hard for me to define how it was. It did hurt sometimes. He wasn't gentle knowing he couldn't break me. I mean it only happened a handful of times.''
''The painful times or..'' His curiosity surprised her.
''In all.'' She admitted. ''He wasn't there because he wanted me, remember?''
Trunks swore under his breath. ''He was a fucking tool. Even if he didn't care for you. You are a piece of art Ki. Any sane man would kill for the privilege of touching you. Your body is a masterpiece and deserves to be worshiped. Every single inch of you.'' He couldn't believe he had just said all that out loud.
Her cheeks were a deep crimson and she was biting her bottom lip. ''How do you do that?''
''Do what?''
''Make my body do things. Make me feel things I had no idea existed. Even with just your words.''
He chuckled. ''That means I turn you on.'' He grinned. She blushed even more. ''It's ok. You make my body and senses go completely wild too. That's why I wanted to talk to you. I don't want you to feel pressured in feeling or doing anything, Ki. I don't have all the answers either. We need to do this together.'' He looked at her. ''Promise me you'll tell me if I ever hurt you. In any way.'' He had to add the last part. He didn't want to hurt her heart but after this conversation, he never wanted to hurt her physically either.
She nodded but stayed silent. After a few minutes she said ''Trunks?''
''Hmm''
''I'm not fragile. I don't break easy you know?'' She said with a sensual tone, almost teasing. The words shot straight to his crotch area. She noticed him stiffening a little and laughed.
Seeing her fiddle with her bracelet, he remembered the pain she had felt when she first put it back on. ''Does it still hurt?''
''Not nearly as much as hurting any of you would. It's a small price to pay.''
He grabbed her hand, turned it and gently kissed the inner part of her wrist.
They sat there for a while. In silence. He had scooted closer to her and put his arm around her shoulders. She leaned her head on his body and closed her eyes, trying to hold on tight to the moment.
''Vegeta. I love you.'' Bulma said, hugging her husband from behind. He squirmed a little in opposition just for appearances.
''Woman. What's gotten into you all of a sudden?'' She simply nodded her head towards their son and the woman in his arms. He was standing behind her, his arms holding her at the waist, pulling her against him. She had leaned her head to the side giving him full access to her neck. He was whispering something in her ear making her giggle and from time to time, she would turn her head up at him and he would kiss her softly.
''I told you coddling the Boy would make him soft! I was dead in that other timeline so I couldn't balance things out. Tsh!'' He grumbled, shaking his head.
''Trunks?''
''Yes Mother?''
''You stayed here last night.'' Bulma's words came out more like a statement than a question. Since getting his own place, he had barely ever stayed the night at the family home. He couldn't bring any of his flings over. Vegeta would have blasted any of the girls Trunks had ever been photographed with. To the King, none of these women were worthy of the Saiyan Royal bloodline. He never admitted to it verbally but Bulma knew her husband was taken aback and even annoyed with Trunks' behavior. The first few times he had visited from his timeline, Vegeta had been extremely rough and condescending with him, even going as far as mocking his overall gentleness and caring personality. They had both changed throughout the years but only one was in a positive manner. ''You've been… staying almost every night in the past months…'' She smirked at the flush of his cheeks. He might have earned his reputation but the real Trunks was slowly resurfacing.
''It's a special day today. Didn't want to miss a single minute of it.'' He replied as his eyes landed on his girlfriend.
Bulma's parties were always extravagant. The one she had planned for Akira was no different. The girl hadn't wanted any of it but Bulma had insisted. She had never been accustomed to having this much attention and her overall shyness made her dread being the focus of any situation. Akira was just happy to see everyone gathered and enjoying themselves. The sight and feeling always made her heart swell. For the first time in her life she was able to feel all the emotions she had sensed on others.
Broly and Kale had shown up with Whis, Beerus, Shin, Kibito, Cheelai and Lemo. The sight had made her smile. Kale was so petite and her bump was undeniable now. Akira had known she was pregnant when she was a few weeks in. She hadn't seen her sister-in-law in a few weeks and the moment she appeared on Planet Sadala, the Ki signature had hit her senses. She had been elated at the news. Broly deserved all the happiness his new life was finally offering him.
''Can I steal you away for a few minutes?'' Trunks whispered in her ear. She smiled and nodded.
He wanted to give her something but as soon as they were out of sight, she looked at him mischievously and grinned. Before he could utter a word, she laced her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately. It was his undoing. He crushed her body with his against a big tree. Kissing her like she was the air he needed so desperately. She returned his passion ten folds, biting at his lower lip. He trailed kisses down her neck, lingering at the spot next to her collarbone. The spot that made her lose her mind. He stopped, his mouth still on her delicate skin making her whine a little between ragged breaths. The sound made him harder. One of his hands was pushing her lower back closer to him. He lowered his second hand over her butt, roughly squeezing her cheek. She moved one of her hands, from his neck up the back of his head, grabbing his long lavender hair and tugging a little. He responded by sliding his hand from her buttcheek down her bare thigh, grabbing right behind her knee and jerking it up to his waist. She felt his erection poke at her core through their clothes. A small moan escaped her lips at the feeling. He moved his hand back up her thigh lifting it a little higher on his side. With her leg up like this, the short dress she was wearing was not covering her behind anymore. He felt the delicate lace under his fingers and growled deep in his throat.
''Trunks'' She moaned his name with need as his expert hands explored her body, his mouth still working on her neck and mouth. The sound of his name, the way her body pressed against his, the feel of her skin under his fingers was driving him completely insane. He had to stop. He couldn't let it get any further. Not here. Not now. Everyone was a few meters away eating and drinking.
''Fuck you're so hot. You will be the end of me.'' He said, leaning his forehead to hers. He bit her bottom lip when she pouted. He lowered her leg gently, bringing his hand back up to her waist. They were both breathing fast, almost unable to catch their breath. ''You know this is not a good idea. Don't look at me like this. They might not be able to sense your Ki but they all probably sensed mine flare through the roof.'' He smiled at her ragged giggle. ''I promise I will make it up to you.''
They had come close to just ripping each other's clothes and letting their passion consume them so many times. Trunks always stopped it before the point of no return. He wanted their first time to be special. He wanted to show her the way a woman should be loved and pleasured. He wanted to be the first to make love to her and here against a tree, in his parents' backyard, like horny teenagers, was not the right place. His resolve was stronger than hers it seemed.
''But I want you.'' She whispered, twirling a long lock of lavender hair around her finger. His hair was back to being shoulder length, the way she liked it. She wouldn't complain if he cut it either though. He never cut it shorter than the top of his ears, leaving plenty for her to rake her fingers through and pull at in the heat of their kissing sessions.
''Ki, you're making this really hard. Almost impossible.''
''I guess I have that effect on you.'' She replied with a sexy grin on her face, reaching for his belt buckle.
'' I swear you will be my undoing.'' He said, grabbing her hand before she could undo his buckle.
In the past months, he had learned what made her tick. What made her melt into a puddle in his arms and what drove her crazy with passion. She had a way of making him feel things he never felt before, despite his experience. They could barely keep their hands off one another.
''We should get back. Before Vegeta comes to find me and kills me for compromising your virtue. You're the star of the party after all.'' A year had passed since she first landed in Bulma's lab and so they agreed the date would now represent her birthday.
''Hey! Birthday girl!'' Yelled Yamcha when they reappeared. ''Where'd you vanish to?'' He was tipsy.
''Leave them alone, Yamcha. It's her birthday she can do whatever she wants.'' Bulma rolled her eyes at her ex-boyfriend.
Broly was standing next to his pregnant wife. She looked exhausted. Carrying a Saiyan baby sure took its toll on the mother, whether Saiyan or not. Akira felt a tiny pinch to her heart at the thought she would never know how it feels to carry a child.
''Aki! Mommy said you are 24 now! But my birthday came before yours so I'm older right?''
''Hmm I'm not sure that's how it works munchkin but what do I know?'' She winked at the little girl.
She made her way to Broly and Kale. She reached her hands out timidly. Kale smiled and nodded, giving Akira permission to touch her bump. The hybrid was able to connect with the baby's Ki. She wouldn't have been able to do so with a human baby as their Ki is too low, but a full Saiyan with two Legendary Super Saiyan parents, was a walk in the park! The baby moved under her touch making her smile.
Trunks watched his girlfriend from his spot. He was standing next to Gohan, Goten and his other self. His best friend followed his gaze.
''Did you talk about…''
''There's nothing to talk about Gohan. I don't want anyone else but her, no matter the price to pay.''
After everyone was gone, Trunks took Akira's hand and led her to the pond shore.
''I have something for you. I wanted to give it to you earlier but I.. hmm… got sidetracked.'' He smiled.
''What? Why? You promised me you wouldn't get me anything!'' She whined looking at the box in his hand.
''It's not a thing per say. Just open it!''
She accepted the box he was handing her. Carefully opening the top, her brows shooting up in surprise at what she found inside. She raised her eyes to his, questioning.
''It's a key to my place.''
''You want me to move in with you? Are we going to have to sleep in separate rooms?'' She teased him.
''I want you to marry me Ki.''
The statement had caught her off guard. They had never really spoken about any of that. She knew Saiyans found their mate and humans celebrated marriage. She never dared to ask ChiChi, Videl or Bulma how it worked in their hybrid couples. Would it have applied to her anyway? She wasn't human, well not fully human. She doubted there was a book on the subject, and she would never dare ask Beerus, Shin, Whis or Grand Minister.
''Why?'' She asked.
''Because I love you and want to spend the rest of my life with you.''
''We don't need a ritual to do that.'' She was genuinely confused.
''It's a way Earthlings vow to always love one another.'' She still didn't understand the concept.
''But you're part Saiyan and the girls said you had to find a mate. What if you marry me and vow to always love me and then you find your mate?''
''I don't want anyone else but you. Plus, I'm not from this timeline, you don't have to worry about that.'' She understood. His mate had probably been in that other timeline. Maybe Mai. He had told her about Mai once. It had made her feel a little angry. The thought of Trunks with another girl bothered her.
''I don't want to trap you in something forever. I don't understand why we need to change anything.''
This was making her feel inadequate. She wasn't sure she understood all their traditions and rituals. She even thought a birthday party was unnecessary, but Bulma had insisted. He was nervous, she could tell from his aura. She hated being the source of his angst so she tried to lighten the mood a little. ''I don't know how Beerus would take the news of me just moving in with you. He could be a little overprotective.'' The Destroyer had taken over the father's role in Akira's life. She hadn't asked, nor protested. It had just happened naturally. ''Do you not value your life Trunks Vegeta Briefs? What other reason would push you in a situation where you had Beerus and Broly as your in laws?'' She asked, a mischievous smile on her lips.
He chuckled. ''You should get to bed.''
''You won't stay tonight?''
''After our little adventure behind that tree'' he pointed ''I think it would be extremely dangerous for me to sleep in the same bed as you tonight. I need a very cold shower.'' He kissed her forehead.
