Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ Count Down From Ten ❯ A Fresh Breath ( Chapter 2 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Chapter Two

(Bulma’s POV)

It was easy to keep Yamcha off my mind when Vegeta was constantly breaking his equipment. My initial project of increasing the gravity output had only taken me two-days; but Vegeta flew through the measly fifty added g’s. The weeks flew by as I continued to bury myself with a constant workload and thankfully I was prepared for many scenarios. The saiyan was obviously going through a rough patch; he seemed to forget the materials he was working with were limited to Earth’s small array of metals alloys. I already had the basics of four other gravity chips started with their counterpart capacitors, each one with different sized coils to handle the magnitude of gravity being simulated.

 

The prince was prone to breaking the console so I built a complete backup control panel; it was capsuled and ready to go. When I wasn’t slaving over the gravity updates I was reviewing the multiple bids offered for my recently invented jet. 

 

Multiple militaries reached out but the world's united military had looked over our blueprint for our prototype fighter jet and had faxed a fifty-paper contract. After leafing through the document with a careful eye I was confident in the decision. I signed my much needed signature on the last three pages of the contract; I faxed the documents back over to the department head of the military to inform them of the company's decision. 

 

Shortly afterwards I received an email that spurred an impromptu video call with King Furry himself. We discussed a schedule; an estimated build-out time was easily laid out and agreed upon. He informed me that he was pleased to have Earth’s leading technology company helping them out. I expressed how honored I felt to be of such important use. When the call ended I checked the time, three in the afternoon; I squealed with excitement before eagerly looking over to my empty cup of coffee.

 

I gathered the blueprints for jet as well my journal for the gravity room upgrades stacking them neatly as I stood from my chair. I grabbed up the stack with one arm, balancing the papers carefully as I grabbed my empty mug. I made my way out of the lab and towards the kitchen. I maneuvered through the halls with calculated grace while my mind focused on what late lunch would suffice my hunger. The closer I got to the kitchen the louder my stomach growled. I couldn’t ignore the tempting smells that assaulted my nostrils, my mouth watering at the aromas. 

 

When I walked into the room my mothers back was turned to me while she worked over the stove ,“It smells great in here! What’cha cooking mom?” I gladly questioned her as I set my papers on the empty kitchen table.

 

She chuckled lightly before she looked over her shoulder. “Testing out a few things; I think I’m going to make a casserole this year instead of my normal stewed green beans.” She proudly explained. I stood to watch her work until I noticed the coffee pot still had enough for another cup. I gladly walked over to fill my mug with the slightly stale coffee; knowing the precious liquid was not to go to waste. 

 

“Do you know who all are coming tomorrow?” My mother inquired lightly. 

 

I leaned against the counter and watched my mother work through the motions, “Well most of the guys have responded. I know Goku, Chi-Chi, Gohan, and Piccolo will not be attending so we only need to set the table for ten of us, not including Vegeta of course.” I clarified. 

 

She wiped her hands on a clean dish towel as she turned to face me, “Well since Goku won’t be able to make it I guess that means Mr. Vegeta gets an extra serving. I bought three hams and three turkeys, that's way too much meat!” She gushed widely. 

 

I rolled my eyes and chuckled lightly, “Well it actually might be just enough!” I replied knowing that Vegeta could put away just as much as Goku, if not more since he trains so intensely. 

 

(Thanksgiving Day)

 

(Vegeta’s POV)

 

The day was progressing abnormally to say the least. When I walked into the kitchen at four in the morning I was surprised to see both the blue-haired woman and the blonde violently bustling around. Initially I was shocked but I quickly re-focused myself. I walked over to the fridge to grab my normal pre-work out snack when the blonde woman came out of nowhere to smack my hand away, “AH-AH Vegeta, no food. You will have to wait for lunch just like everybody else.” She declared confidently. 

 

Normally she would force food in front of me but it was not the case on this peculiar morning, I glared back at the woman, “What is the meaning of this?” I question harshly; aggravated by the interruption in my routine.  

 

She stepped back and waved a dismissive hand at me, “It’s Thanksgiving dear, there will be plenty to eat later, now shoo.” She reassured me while she motioned for me to leave the kitchen.

 

I promptly left out the back door slightly frustrated. 

 

“Stupid earthings and their nonsense traditions.” I grumbled to myself as I walked through the dark backyard, the cooler air rushing around me on my way to the gravity room. 

 

~

 

I continued my training regime minus a decent breakfast, much to my dismay. As morning wore to noon I noticed a group of several familiar energies arriving on the premises but ignored them. In turn focusing on the three bots floating around me. They were slowed down due to the intensity of five-hundred times earths’ gravity; I on the other hand was able to maneuver with little strain, well it was difficult to breathe but it was nothing I couldn’t handle.

 

I launched a blast towards one of the bots. I watched it carefully as it bounced between the three other stalled droids before they redirected the blast towards me. I deflected the offending ball of energy, sending it swiftly toward another one of the bots. I waited in a defensive position with my head on a swivel as I anticipated the return blast when suddenly the room's emergency shut down was initiated. I cursed under my breath as the droids retreated to the secured compartments within the paneled walls. I already knew the bluenette was behind this, the door opened with a hiss and the woman strolled in confidently, hand on her hip. “Hey Vegeta, food is almost done. You need to go shower before you stink up the feast.” She declared proudly. 

 

“I was in the middle of something important, Woman.” I growled back at her, defiantly stomping towards the controls. My cognitive wheels turned as I stared down at the control panel trying to figure out how to override whatever she had done. 

 

“Ah-Ah-Ah Princey, this gravity room is disabled. I will turn it back on after dinner, that is if you behave.” She declared with utter confidence.

 

I glared daggers over my shoulder at the loudmouth cretan. My irritation quickly budding  as she stared mockingly at me, her arms crossed to her puffed out chest.

 

“Don’t make me snap your neck, woman.” I seethed through gritted teeth my fist clenched to my side. 

 

She tossed her head back to laugh before she turned to leave, “Trust me you will like what we have in store.” She called out in front of her.  She tossed me a glance over her shoulder to meet my searing glare. “We made a whole table just for you.” She asserted with a suggestive wiggle of her eyebrows before she sauntered off, leaving me alone in the  non-functional gravity room. 

 

Where does she find the audacity to do these things, I thought to myself while I glared down at the controls. I was supposed to be one of the most feared individuals in the universe. In the past if any measly individual dared to withhold my training in such a way they would find their way straight to hell. I finally decided to make my way inside the compound only because I was indeed ready to eat something. 

 

When I walked through the back door the house was filled with several mouth-watering aromas. I quickly bolted up the stairs to my room, straight to the shower, maybe the food would be decent. I scrubbed my body as quickly as possible. I raised my ki slightly as I stepped out the stall to dry myself. I rummaged through the dresser and randomly selected a pair of jeans to pull on and a long sleeve shirt.

 

~

 

When I returned downstairs, the blue-haired woman greeted me in the kitchen, she set her glass full of red liquid down before she pushed off the counter with a smile, “There you are, looking good Princey.” She complimented while tossing a wink at me. 

 

“Stop calling me that.” I gripped back at her annoying comment. 

 

She chuckled lightly before she pointed towards a long covered dish on the counter, “Grab that and follow me.” She demanded. 

 

Instead of arguing with the woman I simply obeyed. I grabbed the pan and balanced it in one hand, curious as to what was underneath the tinfoil cover of the pan. The smell seemed familiar but also foreign. I knew one thing for sure and that was whatever was contained within the pan smelled amazing. I followed the woman as she navigated through the halls of the compound to a decent sized room.

 

I had never been in this particular room. I took notice of two long tables; they were each the same size and held about the same amount of covered dishes on their surfaces’. The bluenette pointed to the table off to the side, it only had a single chair. “That sir is your very own Thanksgiving feast; and you are holding your own baked ham!” She proudly exclaimed, I nodded my head, walking over to the table to set the pan down on the only free space. 

 

“You can go ahead and start Vegeta. Sorry you couldn’t eat breakfast.” The woman called out before she left the room. She didn’t have to tell me twice, I walked around the table discarding all the covers off the different dishes trying to decide what to stack on my plate first. 

 

Now this was a feast fit for royalty.

 

(Bulma’s POV)

 

My day was progressing wonderfully; I woke up extra early to help my mother begin prepping the magnificent feast. After hours of slaving away in the kitchen my mother and I were able to program to bots to finish the rest. We both rushed upstairs to quickly get ready for the Thanksgiving lunch we had worked so hard on. 

 

The food was spread across the table buffet style. Everyone could grab whatever they wanted before settling back in their chairs to eat. My father was sitting at the head of the table, my mother to his left and Korin to his right. I sat at the other head of the table; Krillin to my right and Roshi to my left. Oolong and Yajarobi sat in between Korin and Krillin whereas Tien and Chiaotzu were between Roshi and my mother. It was nice to have friends and family surrounding me. Everyone seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves and the food quickly disappeared off the table.

 

Earlier when my mother and I were working on the feast I questioned her, asking her if we were making way too much; I will never judge her methods again. I was very thankful for our massive kitchen because without it the feast would still be in the works. Collectively the menu consisted of three stuffed turkeys, three baked hams, four stuffed hens, three trays of mac’n’cheese, three pots of mashed potatoes, one stock pot of brown gravy, four green bean casseroles, four sweet potato casseroles, three pots of stewed collard greens, one hundred deviled eggs, and two hundred yeast dinner rolls. 

 

The dessert menu was nothing compared to the feast, but it did take a considerable amount of time last night to get all the pies baked. Everyone mingled while they ate, I was enjoying my third serving of ham and green bean casserole still wishing there were more deviled eggs. Sadly those barley made it through the first thirty minutes of being set on the table. I glanced up from my plate to look over at the prince. From my seat at the far end of the table I had the perfect view of the saiyans’ table. 

 

It was my genius idea to have him sit at his own table, much to my mothers dismay; she really wanted him to sit next to me. The man seemed to be thoroughly enjoying his meal, I had yet to hear a single complaint from him as he worked his way through every dish. I did, however, overhear him ask my mother for more of the eggs; I remember the face he had made when he discovered there were none left making me chuckle slightly. 

 

The doorbell rang out interrupting the several conversations being held, “I wonder who that could be.” I questioned aloud, throwing my mom a questioning glance. 

 

“It’s Yamcha and Puar, I thought they would be here by now.” Krillin announced nonchalantly. 

 

I slammed my fist on the table as my cheery mood instantly soured, “Those bastards weren’t invited.” I growled in frustration. My small outburst seemed to have grabbed everybody except the prince's attention.

 

“Oh-I see! You two are having another lovers quarrel!” Roshi confidently quipped. 

 

I swiftly slapped the man to the left of me, “Lovers quarrel my ass old man!” I bit back harshly. 

 

“Bulma, that is not polite!” My mother called from the other end of the table. 

 

“I’ll be right back.” I declared bluntly, ignoring my mothers comment. I knew that the old man was unfazed by my smack; I had smacked him harder back in the day. I snatched my glass desperately, chugging the rest of my wine before I jumped up from my seat at the end of the table. I angrily stomped my way towards the front door.

 

I pulled the door open harshly, enough to make Yamcha and Puar jump back. The shapeshifter hid behind Yamcha as I shot them both a glare. Yamcha was dressed in pressed black slacks and a purple polo shirt; a bouquet of yellow roses gripped tightly in one hand, fueling my frustration. 

 

“What do you want?” I spat with maliciousness, Yamcha flinched at my words before wearily smiling at me. 

 

“Well Krillin and Roshi invited us, I thought it meant you weren’t upset at me anymore.” He explained, nervously rubbing the back of his head. He dodged my direct eye contact, instead he stared down at his shoes.

 

I rolled my eyes at his explanation, of course they had invited them. I was right to slap the old man, I should have punched the daylight out of the hermit. I let out a small sigh, it was always something. “Look Yamcha, I am still very upset with you, Puar not so much.” I paused and cautiously thought over my words, “If you behave yourself I guess you both can come inside and eat." I explained hoping to put things aside just for the time being, he may have hurt me on several occasions but today was about friends and family and they would always be my friends I suppose.

 

I waved them both in but Puar was the one who floated past me. Yamcha gave me a half-witted smile, "I really missed you Babe.” He needled lightly.

 

I lifted a calculated brow, “Yamcha please none of this babe business you are here as a friend” I hissed warningly.

 

“Really B?” He queried defensively. 

 

I put my hand up daring him to continue the age-old argument between us.

 

“Yamcha do you want to eat or not.” I forced through gritted teeth. 

 

He held his arms up defensively, “Alright, alright, I’ll behave.” He agreed anxiously, I couldn’t help but chuckle slightly in my mind; between the two of us I appeared to be the stronger warrior.

 

He held out the bouquet of roses and I turned my back to him walking away, rejecting his peace offering. 

 

I quickly strolled back to the banquet room, striding in with my arms crossed to my chest; Yamcha following me like a lost puppy. My mother was shocked to see Yamcha but I gave her a slight nod, signifying I had handled everything perfectly fine.

 

I noted that Puar had made herself comfortable next to Krillin as I walked Yamcha over to my place at the table. I grabbed my half eaten plate and empty wine flute. “You can sit here, I’ll have a bot get you and Puar clean plates.” I calmly informed him. I nodded to everybody else at the table before promptly turning to walk over to Vegeta’s table. 

 

He had devoured almost everything, all he had left was his second stuffed hen and half his tray of mac’n’cheese, I knew he’d like the food. I held a light smile as I spoke, “Hey Vegeta, I can’t finish my plate, I was going to throw it away but figured I’d ask you first.” 

 

He glanced up from his food, quickly analyzing my plate before meeting my eye, “Set it down.” He said gruffly, making my smile widen, of course he wanted my left overs.

 

I gently set the plate down and strolled over to my mother and father, patting both of them on the shoulder before leaning down to whisper between them, “Thank you mom, the feast was awesome. Dad, I'll be in the lab tweaking that jet.” I calmly addressed both of them.

 

They both nodded their heads, neither party begging me to stay at the table. I may have let Yamcha in to eat, but that didn’t mean I wanted to spend any extended amount of time around the man; I had my fill, now it was time to work. 

 

I walked to the kitchen first to send out a bot with clean plates for my unexpected guests. While completing the task I decided I wanted to grab a fresh bottle of wine as well. On my way to the pantry I eyed the pies on the counter, by the time I had a bottle picked out I had decided which pie to snag for myself. With a full pecan pie balanced in one hand and a bottle of wine in the other I happily strolled down to my father and I’s private lab. 

 

As I walked through the doors the automatic lights flickered on, casting bright white light over the disheveled laboratory, my father and I were not the most organized scientist. I gently placed my pie down amongst the scattered blueprints on my desk. I initiated my computers’ boot up process, while I waited for the machine to start up I looked through my desk drawers. It didn’t take long to search for my stowed away corkscrew. With a gleeful shout I pulled the screw from the drawer, uncorking the wine and taking a confident sip before I looked down at my desk analyzing the modified blueprints of the newly contracted military fighter jets.

 

(Vegeta’s POV)

 

When I polished off the rest of my meal I quickly peered around the room, everybody was talking amongst themselves, the volume in the suite was quite loud considering the meager amount of people. I instantly noticed the blue-haired woman's absence, instead the scar-faced buffoon took her original seat at the other table. I hadn’t seen him since their last argument.

 

I shrugged my shoulders. I didn't dwindle on the fact. Instead I watched as the blonde haired woman walked around and gathered empty plates before walking out of the room, towards the kitchen I presume. I looked at the empty dishes stacked on my own table. I figured I’d save the woman a trip or two. I stood and quickly gathered the dishes up in both hands, walking them to the kitchen.

 

When I arrived at the kitchen I didn’t see the woman but I noticed the stack of dishes next to the sink so naturally that's where I placed them. When I turned around to leave the blonde woman was in my face with a creepily wide smile. “Vegeta! Did you enjoy the meal?” the woman cheerfully asked, taking a polite step closer. 

 

I side stepped past her trying to create some distance, “It was adequate.” I replied curtly with a nod.

 

Despite my efforts she stepped closer beaming me a smile, “Goody, I guess that means you won’t mind eating what’s left for dinner later. There is another baked ham that has yet to be touched with your name on it.” She gushed cheerfully. 

 

I nodded my head once more maneuvering away from her and towards the kitchen door, it was time to train. “Wait Vegeta! You haven’t had dessert!” She yelled. I risked peering over my shoulder to look at the offered dessert, “It's an apple pie, all for you!” She stated matter of factly as she held out the ‘pie’ and a fork.

 

It didn’t take long to think over the offer, everything else offered to me has been quite enjoyable and well worth my time. I walked up, grabbing the tin and utensil out of her hand. I strode over to the empty kitchen table, settling myself down in one of the chairs to eat. I rather stay separated from the loud group of fighters in the other room.

 

I chose to deal with the blonde woman's annoying humming as she began the enormous task of washing the dirty dishes. It confused me that the family had an abundance of wealth yet they had no servants to do the measly task of day to day chores.

 

When I finished the pie I discarded the tin in the trash and set my fork amongst the other dishes that had yet to be washed by the blonde woman. I promptly left the kitchen, satisfied with my meal. It was time to train. I swiftly ascended the stairs and entered my room. I was quick to switch out of the civilian clothes and into a clean pair of training shorts. Within a minute I was down in the gravity room only there was one problem. The gravity room was still non-functional; that blasted woman.

 

I instantly pinpoint her location, of course down in the labs. It didn’t take long to navigate the vast halls and find my way to the private laboratory. 

 

When I walked through the door it was obvious the woman was focused on her task at hand, her back was turned to me and she was staring intensely at the computer screen in front of her. 

As I stepped closer I could make out the three-dimensional object on her screen, she would stop and write something down in a journal next to her then she would type other things in on the keyboard. 

 

The model would rotate and zoom in on specific areas in accordance with whatever she would type out. “What is that?” I asked the question aloud, my curiosity getting the best of me. 

 

The woman calmly glanced over her shoulder then turned back to her screen, “Earth’s newest fighter jet, I got a contract to build several hundred fleets for military use.” She explained confidently. 

 

I grunted in response analyzing the model on her screen, it looked quite small in my opinion.

 

The woman swiveled her chair around to face me, a smile plastered to her face; a familiar tall bottle held in one hand. “Can you help me test the prototype?” She questioned excitedly.

 

I raised an eyebrow in question, “What do you mean by test?” I cautioned in confusion. 

 

She rolled her eyes and chuckled lightly, she took a gulp from the bottle before setting it down on the desk.

 

She jumped up, stumbling slightly as she stood up straight. “Follow me!” She exclaimed wildly as she stormed towards the hanger connected to the lab. I followed with my arms crossed, perplexed by how I have found myself in this position. 

 

The lights automatically flicked on upon our entrance, in the middle of the hanger was a one-person sleek black jet. I recognized it as the one that was displayed on her screen earlier. As we walked closer to it I skillfully evaluated the vehicle. It looked somewhat similar to the vehicles they chose to drive around the cities but this one was definitely better-off aerodynamically speaking. “Do me a favor and throw a small ki blast at it.” She stated as she stepped behind a bigger vehicle in the hanger. 

 

I pointed my finger and shot a small blast at the sleek black vehicle, instead of exploding the outside material seemed to absorb the energy, leaving a light blue sheen on the vehicle before it returned to the sleek black color. 

 

Intrigued, I shot another blast, slightly bigger only for it to have the same effect, interesting. 

 

The woman jumped out from her crouched position behind the other vehicle with a celebratory shout, “Whoop Whoop! HELL YEAH I AM A GENIUS!” She shouted at the top of her lungs, the shrill sound reverberated off the walls and echoed through the room. She continued to cheer, forcing me to cover my ears to keep my eardrums from bursting.

 

 “SHUT UP!” I roared harshly at the overly energetic woman. She clapped her hands together and ceased her celebration.

 

She eagerly walked towards me with a smile on her face, when she was a few steps away she stopped, “Thank you Vegeta!” She burst breathlessly.

 

I rolled my eyes at her and crossed my arms to my chest, “Whatever woman, I need you to enable the gravity room. I need to train.” I demanded plainly. 

 

She laughed lightly before she replied, “Well what are we waiting for, lead the way home boy!”

 

I growled at her comment, I hated it when she called me that. I turned my back and stormed out of the hanger door, I rushed to get to the front of the lab, the woman's shoes audibly clicking against the floor behind me. I ignored the fuming scar-faced weakling that stood gawking at me from the far side of the lab. 

 

(Bulma’s POV)

 

A woman couldn’t be happier; I had half expected the prototype to explode but the shield systems I invented for Vegeta’s training bots worked just as well for the jet. “Whoop Whoop! HELL YEAH I AM A GENIUS!” I couldn’t help but dance in excitement at the successful experiment, gleefully hooting my victory. 

 

“SHUT UP!” My very helpful assistance yelled back. I contain my excitement by clapping my hands together once, strolling towards my alien house guest. 

 

“Thank you Vegeta!” I empathize my praise with a genuine smile; only for him to roll his eyes and cross his arms against his chest. 

 

“Whatever woman, I need you to enable the gravity room. I need to train." He responded gruffly, it made me laugh; of course that's why he came down here in the first place, saiyans. 

 

"Well what are we waiting for, lead the way home boy!” I teased the man, earning an aggravated growl in response as he turned his back and proceeded to storm out of the hanger.

 

I happily strolled behind him, feeling as if I was on cloud nine because my jet was AMAZING.

 

"WHAT IS GOING ON HERE!" 

 

I whipped my head to the side to see a very agitated Yamcha leaning against my fathers work desk. 

 

I stopped in my tracks and rolled my eyes at the man, “Working on a project, what does it look like?” I confidently questioned him. 

 

What did he think was happening? 

 

He glared between the saiyan and I, pushing himself off the desk poised to say something when Vegeta interjected, “I do not have time for this nonsense, I need to train, let's go woman.” He commented plainly.

 

I gave Vegeta a wide smile, “You’re correct Vegeta, let's.” I agreed as I turned my chin up in the air.

 

 I went to follow Vegeta out the door when a certain scar-faced fighter stepped between us. He crowded my personal space stepping in front of me, forcing me to take a few cautious steps back away from Vegeta and the door. 

 

“Oh-I see what’s going on here. You’re sleeping with him aren’t you.” He spat wickedly, the accusation was so absurd it made me laugh, me sleeping with Vegeta, never in a million years. 

 

When I finally stopped laughing I shook my head in disbelief. I gawked at Yamcha, “Are you serious right now?” I impassionedly challenged him.

 

I was obviously confused on how he had come to such a conclusion.

 

Yamcha crossed his arms to his chest as he knitted his brows together, he glared daggers at me, “Yes I’m serious! It's so obvious!” He seethed. 

 

I took a deep breath to collect myself, regretting the decision to be the better person. I had allowed him access to the compound in the first place hoping to have a neutral day; I mentally chidded myself. I should have known better.

 

I pointed a confident finger at Yamcha, “What’s obvious is that you have gone crazy.” I stated matter-of-factly. 

 

His eye twitched in frustration and his arms dropped to his side; hands balled into fists. “Crazy?!? I am not crazy! What’s crazy is that you would throw yourself at a monster like him!" He passionately fumed while he angrily gestured towards an amused looking saiyan, figures. 

 

I rolled my eyes at Yamcha's accusation, “Yamcha enough of this! I don’t want to be hostile; you agreed you would behave.” I calmly tried to deescalate the situation. 

 

Yamcha scoffed at me, “Stop telling me to behave, I’m not a dog.” He retorted defensively. 

 

I sneered back at him, “Well you act like one!” I declared, tired of his immature actions. 

 

He tossed his hands up defensively, “I DO NOT!” He rebuffed dramatically. 

 

I rubbed a hand over my eyes, I could already feel a stinging headache budding.

 

“Look, Yamcha, I am tired of this back and forth, understand I will no longer live an apathetic existence to feed into your personal delusion.” I stoically protested.

 

His face twisted before his expression dulled into recognition. 

 

“Babe, What do you mean?” He questioned with those pleading puppy dog eyes. 

 

I bared my teeth to him, I would not sway so easily.

 

“I am not your babe!” I reiterated through gritted teeth as I stomped closer to him, crowding him just like he had done to me earlier, as I fumed. 

 

“I am Bulma fucking Briefs, the same woman you lied to constantly; the woman you cheated on, the woman who willing let you steal parts of my heart. Yet you have the audacity to stand there oblivious to your actions.” I retailed, rightfully restraining my anger as I blatantly called out his wrong doings.

 

He looked to the floor defeated, not daring to meet my infuriated stare as he replied. “I’m sorry Bulma, I can make it up to you. I can change, I promise, you just have to trust me.” He gambled his words and dared to meet my eye, a slight smile pulling to his lips. 

 

That wouldn’t work on me, not this time.

 

I stepped past the man, “Yamcha, I want to believe you,” I presented the honest statement with my back to him. I prepared myself to glance over my shoulder, anticipating his eager smile.

 

“I want to trust you,” I continued as I met his gaze. There was obvious hope bubbling behind his soft brown eyes, so I chose to look away once more. 

 

“But I cannot put my faith behind you. I could easily hand you this dagger that you’ve wounded me with, but in doing so I’ve only allowed you to rip it out, leaving me to bleed mercilessly as you continue to repeat the same mistakes.” I carefully articulated, my emotions strained behind my calm demeanor.

 

Yamcha interjected, "Babe please! I won't do it again, you are all I need; you are my everything. We've been through thick and thin and we can overcome this!" The urgency behind his plea caused me to chance a glance over my shoulder. 

 

It was strange to see his brown eyes flooded with utter defeat as he pleaded one last time.

 

I turned my body slightly in order to properly lock eyes with the man I had trusted for far too long before I continued my speech, “In the past I've accepted your apologetic words but now I see that they were simply a veil of virtue.” He stared at me in confusion and I pushed forward.

 

“You have hung them too delicately, you failed to hide your methods. I don’t know how I stayed oblivious for so long. I stood by you with a genuine smile all the while I was dancing and laughing with you; meanwhile you were busy casting your desired stones.” I explained, my heart hammered as Yamchas shoulders dropped; I maintained my calm composure.

 

 “I will not be lied to again, I will not be cheated on and I will not allow you to steal more of me Yamcha.” I cynically declared.

 

I turned away, I couldn't bear to look him in the eye as I finished. “I will not tolerate you.” I announced coldly, the confidence behind the statement brought goosebumps to my own skin. 

 

I focused ahead at Vegeta who stood leaned against the door frame as if this conversation was the most boring thing in the universe. 

 

“Let’s go Vegeta.” I informed the saiyan that we could leave. He promptly turned and led the way through the halls. I followed close behind. 

 

I didn’t risk looking back at Yamcha as we rushed down the hall, it felt good to tell him off. I felt ten-times better than I had initially felt after our break-up that’s for sure. 

 

I focused on the back of Vegeta’s head as we made our way through the hallways of the compound, having to stifle a chuckle as Yamcha’s wack accusation came back to mind. 

 

Seriously Vegeta and I, gosh he was crazy. 

 

When we walked out the back door the cold air nipped at my nose and I hustled up to the gravity room. I mindlessly typed in the override code. Within a second the gravity room was fully functional once more. “There you go, Princey.” I righteously stated as I stepped to the right, allowing him to enter his precious training room.

 

Instead of slamming the door in my face like he normally did he turned and met my eye. We stared at each other in silence; I half-expected him to say something to me, the cold air freezing my hands as it whipped my hair around. He nodded his head slightly before lightly closing the door with a click. I shrugged my shoulders, saiyans were weird I thought to myself as I turned to rush back inside.

 

As I walked back through the compound I hoped that by the time I returned to my lab, Yamcha would be long gone. My bottle of wine will be politely waiting for me. 

 

~

The first snowfall of the year arrived in the second week of December. Yamcha had kept his distance from the compound, a smart move after the events of thanksgiving day. It didn’t stop him from sending multiple apology texts, I read through every cheesy message but I had yet to respond. I had more important matters to attend to, my father and I had been working diligently on the military contract. I had asked for my fathers assistance since there were hundreds of jets to be made and the building process was meticulous. 

My father and I interviewed multiple candidates for three different task forces. It only took us a week to hand select each engineer, scientist, and mechanic but once that job was done the communal lab went into a frenzy. It was organized chaos as each worker scurried about. 

We weren’t in a hurry to get the project completed but by the way the workers rushed about, you'd think these jets were due next month. I knew different but trusted that they knew what to do to get the job done properly. When I wasn’t watching over the other workers' progress I was with my father monitoring the final stages of the testing process, both of us ensuring the quality of our product. 

Almost every corner of the compound was decked out in multi-colored lights. I could practically feel the Christmas spirit buzzing through my being as I walked the halls making my way to the kitchen after another successful jet test. I swear these past couple of weeks I have been on my A-game. Everything was running particularly smoothly at the company; meaning Vegeta never had to wait too long for any gravity maintenance. Nothing has changed with the alien, he still crassly demands upgrades. 

Although ever since he witnessed the last argument between Yamcha and I, he hasn’t threatened to kill me, as much. When I walked into the kitchen my mother was working over the stove and I glanced at the time, surprised that it was actually close to dinner. I shrugged my shoulders and sauntered over to the coffee pot, another surprise as there was a seemingly fresh pot of coffee, “Did you brew this mom?” I asked casually. 

“Of course dear, I figured you or your father would find your way up here eventually.” she cheerily called over her shoulder, I smiled at my mothers politeness. 

“What’s for dinner?" I asked as I gleefully poured the coffee into my mug, slowly adding my multiple spoonfuls of sugar stirring lightly. 

“Venison chili, your fathers favorite.” She replied as she stirred the stock pot on the stove. I figured dinner would be done soon enough so I decided to go without creamer and I took a seat at the kitchen bar. I gazed out the window to watch the snowfall, it was beautiful allowing me the peace of mind to sort my mental check-list. Christmas was fast approaching and I had a basic idea on what to get my parents, my mother had been hinting at wanting a new purse; piece of cake. My father, ever the easy man to shop for, was in need of a heavier tool box and I had already picked out which brand to get him. I had already called up Chi-Chi simply asking what Gohan might want and she replied with a list of different text books; I would definitely sneak in a few gadgets for the poor boy to play with. 

The backdoor burst open and closed with a decent thud, bringing me out of my thoughts due to the quick rush of frigid air. I glanced over at the saiyan house guest as he stomped over to the fridge. 

“Oh Vegeta! Dinner is almost done, have a seat at the table!” My mother gushed from the stove, earning a barely audible grunt from the saiyan as a reply. 

I rolled my eyes and returned to my list; I lazily gazed back outside as I took a gracious gulp of my coffee. Even though Vegeta and I weren’t exactly the best of friends I had already planned out his gift. I knew it was the saiyan’s first Christmas and I wanted to leave a good impression on the man. 

I had talked to Krillin late in the evening on Thanksgiving day; he had stumbled down to the lab and both of us had drunk quite the amount of wine. 

At first we chatted non-chantley. He had apologized for inviting Yamcha to the dinner before he started talking about how surprised he was to see Vegeta in such a civil setting. It seemed to open a can of worms for the short man and we conversed for hours; at some point Krillin got caught up rambling about his first hand experience of Vegeta’s death on Namek.

 Despite being inebriated Krillin had quite the memory and after divulging all that sensitive information to me he passed out on the couch in my lab; which in turn left me with my own drunk thoughts causing me to look at the saiyan from a different light. It was obvious from the amount of scars scattered along his person that the prince of the saiyans had lived a far from peaceful life beforehand. I decided that I would at least try to be friends with the man, if it was plausible of course. 

I peaked over my shoulder to see said prince practically inhaling a bowl of chili and rice. His present was something I had been working on when I had spare time, every damaged bot that was brought to me held the vital information I needed for his gift. 

He probably wouldn't appreciate what I had brewing in my lab but I had no doubt that he would make good use of my genius. I hadn’t noticed that I was quite blatantly staring at the man until he met my eye, I quickly looked away focusing my attention back out on the snow covered lawn. I ignored the fleeting butterflies in my stomach taking another gulp of my coffee as I mentally berated myself; get your mind out of the gutter Bulma.

Christmas Day

(Vegeta’s POV)

I had gotten up at the break of dawn, per usual, I had made my way down the stairs and to the kitchen. As always, the blonde woman was awake; working over the stove and as soon as she noticed me she turned on her heel and screeched, “Merry Christmas Mr. Vegeta!” 

I retained my aggravation focusing on the food that lined the counters and an empty table, noting that it was not the usual morning meal prep. “Where is the breakfast woman?” I questioned harshly.

“Breakfast will be served once everyone is awake darling!” She sang out in a cheery voice from her position at the stove. 

I rolled my eyes in aggravation; great another morning without a proper meal. My curiosity battled with my frustration as I stormed through the backdoor, the cold air didn't bother me as I stomped through the backyard on my way to the gravity room. The last time I was denied a morning meal there was a decent feast to compensate and that better be the case this time. 

As soon as I entered the gravity room I walked up to the controls; boosting the gravity up to three hundred times earth's gravity to begin my training. I welcomed the strain as I began my stretches allowing my mind to wander.

 I couldn’t lie, without that scar-faced weakling around to bother the blue haired woman, her work has been immaculate. My training had been progressing without any hiccups, I knew I was at least twice as strong as I was when I first arrived on this mud ball but it wasn’t enough to break the barrier. My regime was impeccable thanks to that old man and his loudmouth daughter; every time I demand an upgrade I receive an upgrade, every time I give the woman a mutilated bot I have a new one within hours. There was no excuse for me not to be able to obtain my birthright. 

~

About three hours into my training I noticed all three occupants of the compound gathered together, finally a meal would be ready soon enough. I glared at the three droids still stalling  around me, I grinned as I threw a sizable blast at one of them before dropping down to the ground. I watched with my head on a swivel as the ki blast rebounded between the three bots; they skillfully shifted their positions as I anticipated the blast. As it soared towards me I noticed the blue-haired woman approaching the room, I casually deflected the blast sending it bounding back towards the bots. 

There was no knock at the door to announce her arrival; only the system automatically shutting off. As the gravity whirled down one of the droids absorbed the blast on its way back to its compartment in the wall as the door opened with a hiss. Cold air whipped into the room and the woman barely popped her head past the frame, “Breakfast is ready your Majesty!” She shouted sarcastically before she was gone. 

By the time I made it to the door of the gravity room the woman was halfway to the house; I watched as she trudged through the few inches of snow looking like a fool in the pink fuzzy robe that barely went past her knee.  

“You look ridiculous, woman!” I loudly remarked  as I closed the door to the gravity room behind me. 

She had her hand on the door knob when she tossed a glare back at me, “Says the one wearing spandex shorts in the middle of winter.” She lashed back, swiftly stepping into the house and closing the door behind her. I rolled my eyes, I was half expecting a bigger reaction from the woman. 

After witnessing the verbal spat between the scar-faced fool and the woman I realized one very important thing about the blue-haired oddity; her words were her true weapons and boy was it amusing to rile up such a creature. 

(Bulma’s Pov)

I woke up with an extra pep to my step, the Christmas spirit reverberating through my very being as I hummed christmas carols on my way to the kitchen. I could already smell the bacon cooking as I skipped down the steps. I hoped to beat Vegeta to the punch. Upon my entrance to the kitchen my mother turned her head and sang out “Merry Christmas!”

I gave her a bright smile and sang back from the doorway “Merry Christmas!”

 As I walked over to the coffee pot I dared to look at the ham that was covered on the counter. My mouth watered, I peeked over noting my moms turned back; I just wanted to take a peek at the luscious piece of meat. As soon as I lifted the foil up slightly my mom appeared to smack my hand away. "Now-now missy, that still has to cook longer, you can wait for breakfast like everyone else!" She scolded me lightly.

I chuckled at my mother's quick reaction, my plan foiled as I walked over to the empty coffee pot. 

"Is dad not awake yet?" I teasingly question while I put a new filter into the machine. 

“He should be down in a second. I gave him one of his presents this morning and he’s still tinkering with it.” She replied gleefully as she went back to her task at the stove. 

I measured out the coffee grounds and poured them into their compartment, closing the lid before pushing the button, “What did you get him this year?” I coaxed curiously. 

My mother giggled lightly, “It’s none of your concern honey.” She sang in a cheery voice. 

I didn’t dwell on her comment, it was best not to pry. I opened the cabinet to the left of my head and pulled out my favorite mug, setting it down next to the machine I leaned against the counter to wait. I tapped an impatient finger on the counter as my other hand fiddled with the object in my robe pocket. The small box contained a certain house guest's gift, I hadn’t worked out exactly when I would give them to him.

I instinctively looked out the window to peer at the gravity room, the morning sun mixed with the snow only reflected off the metal on the outside. It was impossible to tell if it was in use or not; a small frown made its way to my face. “Is Vegeta up yet Mom?” I tossed the question out, figuring she of all people would know. 

“Yes dear he is, he’s already training! He never takes a break, such dedication!” She beamed while never taking her attention off the food on the stove. 

Her comment made me smile lightly, “Thanks Mom.” I politely tossed back as I continued to fiddle with the box in my pocket. 

She looked over her shoulder shooting me her own blue eyes, “He’s perfect husband material.” She declared confidently with a wink before returning her attention back to the stove. 

I rolled my eyes at her comment, “Mom please! Vegeta is the last guy I’d want to marry!” I replied harshly. 

“He is very hardworking and I’d say he is just as stubborn as you my dear.” My father earnestly rebutted. I whipped my head to the side to see my father leaned against the doorframe; still in his robe and pajamas, scratch sat politely on his right shoulder. 

“This should not be up for debate! Are you guys insane!” I shouted embarrassed, I glared between both of my parents. They both laughed lightly at my reaction and I was aggravated that both my parents seem to want Vegeta, of all people, to be my husband. I awkwardly stood in the kitchen waiting for my morning dose of caffeine. Deciding to glare at the brewing pot of coffee, as soon as the pot was full I quickly filled my mug. 

“Is breakfast almost done?” My father questioned as he stepped up to make his cup as well. 

“Two minutes!” My mother cheerfully sang from the stove. With my coffee together I walked over to the table, settling myself in the chair and taking a careful sip of the scalding liquid. 

My father walked over to join me at the table, taking a seat next to me. He set his mug on the table and reached into his pocket, pulling out a brightly wrapped gift. He slid the gift over the surface of the table, it landed right in front of me. “Merry Christmas baby girl!” My father gruffed before picking up his mug to take a sip of his coffee. 

I set my own mug down and eagerly reached for the neatly wrapped present. I tore into it like a child and underneath the bright red paper was a plain cardboard box. Inside the box amongst the tissue paper was an unmarked package of capsules. When I opened the pack and looked at the five capsules I didn’t recognize any of the serial numbers. “What’s in here dad?” I queried, not wanting to open them in the kitchen. 

He smiled behind his mug, “It’s a wide variety of tools my dear, I noticed you could use some new equipment.” He mused.

I beamed a smile at my father and set the package on the table; I leaned over to give him a hug, careful not to jostle him too much. 

“Thanks Papa, you always know just what I need.” I gushed my appreciation.

I pulled back and flashed my father a wicked stare, “Your present is under the tree, you know where it’s supposed to be.” I replied sarcastically with a smile still on my face. 

My father grinned as he reached up to pet his cat and my mother strolled up to the table, setting down a platter of bacon, “Bulma dear, will you go and fetch Mr. Vegeta. I’m sure he’s hungry. He wasn't able to eat earlier.” She asked politely as she turned back around to grab something else.

I knew it was more of a demand rather than a favor so I only nodded as a response. I took a decent sip of my hot coffee before setting the mug on the table. 

When I stood from my chair I tightened my robe around me, glancing up to the back door of the kitchen to make sure my sneakers were still on the floor by the door. I was not going to ruin my nice house slippers by trudging through the snow on this fine Christmas morning. I walked over to the back door and kicked off my slippers, easily slipping my sock feet into my sneakers. As soon as I opened the door the cold air hit me, making a shiver run down my spine; I instantly regretted not wearing a pair of fuzzy pants. I tightened my robe to my chest and braced myself for the small journey to the gravity room. 

I trudged through the snow, the cold air biting at my hands. As I stomped up the ramp I had decided what to do; I did not want to deal with the saiyan who didn’t answer doors so instead of being polite I punched the shut down code into the panel beside the door frame. When the door opened I popped my head in to be met with Vegeta’s glare, “Breakfast is ready your Majesty!” I yelled sarcastically not even waiting for a response, I was beyond freezing. 

I turned and trudged through the snow, I was almost to the door, reaching for the knob when I heard Vegeta call out, “You look ridiculous woman!”

I glared over my shoulder at the practically naked saiyan, “Says the one wearing spandex shorts in the middle of winter.” I shouted back as I opened the door and stepped inside slamming it behind me. I shucked my sneakers off my feet, easily slipping back into my house shoes. I eagerly rubbed over my covered arms to try and heat myself up. I noticed my father had moved his seat and my mother had laid out the plates. I happily strolled over to my seat at the table with a wide smile on my face. I had definitely won that tit-for-tat; I marked my metal tally board and took a victorious sip of my coffee. I ignored my parents' eyes on me from their seats at the table.

(Vegeta’s Pov)

When I walked in through the back door the blue-haired woman was sitting away from her parents, sipping on her mug of the bitter liquid they referred to as coffee. The old man was sitting at the head of the table with the loud blonde woman to his right. Everybody had food on their plates but nobody was eating; there was an empty plate in front of the seat across from the blue-haired woman.

I didn’t particularly want to sit right next to the loud blonde nor did I want to sit close to the heavily argumentative woman but the choices were limited and I was practically starving. I walked over to the seat without hesitation and as soon as I sat down in the chair the blonde woman clapped her hands together.

 “Alright! Dig in everybody!” She cheerfully declared. 

I began stacking my plate with a load of so-called bacon and a heap of scrambled eggs. There was little conversation throughout the meal. 

Occasionally the old man and blue haired-woman spoke about different experiments but I paid no mind. Instead, I focused on stacking my second plate of food. When I polished off my second plate I glanced around at the other patrons' empty plates; their silverware off to the side. From what I had learned the gesture meant they were finished eating, I looked at the rest of the food still on the platters. I was always baffled by their meager appetites. As I stacked my third serving I convinced myself that it might be one reason the human race was so weak, they could barely eat for Kami’s sake. 

While I ate my third and fourth serving of the meal I could feel the blue-haired woman staring at me. I tried to ignore it but it was getting quite annoying. I glared up from my food and as soon as I met her intense stare she darted her eyes. Instead she fixated on her empty plate, cradling her mug in front of her face to hide her obvious blush. 

It was very irritating this increase of staring fits and she never had anything to say.

The blonde woman stood from her seat next to me, she began collecting the old man’s plate and her own.

“Save room for lunch Vegeta, I made a baked ham just for you!” She gushed before she left the table and walked over to the sink. I grunted as a response, I would always have room for a baked ham, those things were one of the best meats this mudball had to offer. I stacked my plate with what was left on the platters that scattered the table. 

As I continued to eat my food I stared back at the bluenette; giving her the same treatment that she had given me through most of the meal. The old man dismissed himself from the table and she waved him off, she squirmed under my stare; occasionally meeting my eye only to look off somewhere else. Dissatisfied with her underwhelming reaction I dropped my glare and polished off the rest of the food. 

When I stood to leave the woman blurted out, “Wait Vegeta!” 

I scowl back at her, “What?” I questioned bluntly, I had training to get back to. 

She jumped up from her seat, “I have a gift for you.” She replied calmly. 

I raised a confused brow, “Gift.” I repeated the word back to her harshly; I was not accustomed to gifts. 

She rolled her eyes but held a smile on her face, she reached into her pocket and when she pulled her hand out she proudly displayed a tiny box that was bright green, with a bow?

“This is for you.” She announced confidently. 

I glared down at the ridiculous looking box in her hand. When I glanced back up I was greeted with her dim-witted smile, “What is it?” I cautiously asked, trying to hide my intrigue. 

Her smile widened and she scarily resembled the blonde woman in the moment, “Things to train with.” She declared excitedly. 

She swiftly closed her hand around the box, pulling back and dropping her hand back to her pocket. “Let’s go to the Gravity room and I’ll show 'em to you.” She beamed before she swiveled on her heel and confidently strode towards the back door. 

“Don’t take too long dear, we still have to open the presents under the tree” The blonde woman sang from her place at the kitchen sink.

“It won’t be long mom.” The bluenette called back as she quickly switched her footwear. She bent over to adjust her shoes before standing straight, she reached for the knob but she didn’t open the door. 

With her hand poised on the knob she glanced over her shoulder. “Follow me Vegeta.” She commanded bossily before she opened the door. 

I grunted as a response and crossed my arms against my chest in aggravation. I moved to follow her, shutting the door behind me. I didn’t like to be bossed around, I tried not to be too frustrated with the situation, especially since whatever she had pertained to my training; it shouldn’t be a complete waste of my time. I had learned that earthlings were very weird creatures. 

As we walked up to the door she typed in her override code into the panel on the side. When we walked through the door, I left it open allowing the cool air to seep into the room. As she walked towards the control panel I followed behind. She tossed a glance over her shoulder and shouted “Close the door! I’d rather not freeze to death.” She bellowed bossily. 

I almost wanted to leave it open to frustrate the woman but decided against it; I’d rather train than spend an hour getting an earful from the woman. When I turned around she was leaned against the control panel with a confident smile as she fiddled with the box in her hand. 

“Open it up, but be careful with it.” She stated before tossing the bright green box towards me.

I swiftly caught the tiny object, glancing between it and the woman. The bright green material was some sort of paper folded over the object, ridiculous earth customs. I easily tore the material, it gave way and underneath was a plastic container. I gave the woman an annoyed look before opening up the container, inside was a small square and one of those capsule things. 

“What are these?” I questioned, she had mentioned that this would benefit my training and I didn’t see how a miniscule square and capsule were anything helpful.

She strolled over and grabbed the box from me taking a couple steps back, “Now, now prince these go hand in hand with each other,” She cockily chirped as she displayed the capsule between her index finger and thumb. She gave me a wicked smile before she clicked the capsule, tossing it to the floor to the far side of us. 

When the beige cloud dispersed there were four training bots on the ground. I crossed my arms against my chest as I looked from the droids and back up to her. I had plenty of these to work with so I was slightly confused. 

“Training bots? They look exactly like the other ones.” I stated bluntly. 

She held out a finger, “Just wait Princey.” She insisted as she pulled the metallic square from the box. She was smiling wide, obviously overly confident as she proudly displayed the small square pinched between her fingers. 

I raised an inquisitive eyebrow glaring between her and the square, she must have lost her mind. “You look ridiculous holding up a metal square woman, ” I replied harshly. 

Her smile dropped and she growled in frustration, “It’s a chip Vegeta!” She stomped towards me and continued “This chip contains two algorithms that push all your weaknesses." She prompted assertively. 

“I have no weaknesses!” I seethed through gritted teeth.

She rolled her eyes at me and within an instant she was right in front of me thrusting the small metal ‘chip’ in my face, "Everybody has weakness and this chip is based on your weaknesses bud! One is a defense workout, the other is offensive." She passionately clarified.

She pulled it back and pointed at the bots behind her, "Every bot you've trained with thus far has tracked every one of your attacks. Even the smallest of movements have been recorded and they automatically loaded that information right to my computer. Mangled or not their data was put through a program and it analyzed everything." She wildly explained.

She flashed me another wicked smile, a fire burning behind her blue eyes as she stood tall, "I've complied that date and programmed these workouts to push you to your absolute limit; if you're not training on the edge yet you will be now!" She ended her speech with her hand on her hip.

I crossed my arms to my chest. I should have been very enraged by her blatant breach of my personal space but bots programmed to push my rare weaknesses; that in itself was intriguing. "Well what are you doing standing there! Install the damn thing!" I crassly declared.

Instead of rebutting she swiveled on her heel and strode over to the control panel. She crouched down and opened a small compartment to her side, "This might take a second." She called out as she produced a small tool box from the compartment.

I turned my attention to the four new training bots laid out on the floor. I walked over to them, with my back turned away from where the woman was working; I analyzed the droids. I casually picked one up noting it was the same weight as the other handful of bots in my possession. I stared at the walls, I curiously wondered exactly how many bots they could hold before I turned my attention to the sphere in my hands. I tried to pick out any noticeable differences between these and the other ones but nothing appeared different. 

I looked over to the woman ready to question her intelligence when the words got caught in my throat. The woman was laid on her back, her robe splayed below her on the floor as the upper half of her body was hidden underneath the control panel, her legs spread wide open. Her obscenely short shorts were definitely shorter than her normal attire. I stared at her bare legs for far too long. As she shifted her positioning I whipped my head back around and glared at the bot in my hands; that blasted woman couldn't find proper clothes to wear.

(Bulma's Pov)

It didn't take me long to pry the panel off, thankfully I always had a tool box stored for impromptu upgrades. I looked over my shoulder to see Vegeta walking over to the pile of bots and I smiled to myself. He was definitely interested. I placed my screwdriver back in the tool box reaching up to grab the chip off the control panel before I settled myself on my back. I shimmed into the crawl-space using the hand that wasn't holding the precious chip to move several wires around to find the input slot I was searching for. 

Once located I slid the chip into place, thankful for my father's ingenious idea to add different outlets for future use. I wiggled out from underneath the controls and sat up; I glanced up to see Vegeta glaring at the bot in his hands. Thinking nothing of it I turned around and grabbed my screwdriver. I replaced the panel making sure every screw was secured before I put my tools away in the box, tucking it away in the secure compartment to the side.

"Alright it's ready! Come over here so I can show you how to engage the program." I called out as I stood to my feet, dusting my body off.

I glanced down at the controls ready to demonstrate but when I peered to my side Vegeta wasn't there to watch. I looked over my shoulder to see the saiyan still glaring at the droid in his hand. 

"Vegeta!" I yelled to grab his attention. 

"What!" He harshly shouted out back.

"I need to show you how to work this." I explained as I gestured down at the bots and back to the control panel.

He rolled his eyes, "I know how to work them." He replied bluntly.

I gritted my teeth in frustration, "No, you do not know how to engage them, they are brand spanking new!" I protested back at him.

"I- '' Before he could spit out a statement I cut him off.

"Get your stubborn ass over here you jerk!" I shouted at the Saiyan, no matter how hard I tried you just can't be civil with him. 

He growled in what I assumed was aggravation and dropped the bot to the floor.

"Hey! Be easy with that!" I fumed as I crossed my arms against my chest, my left eye twitching in frustration.

It was a gift for Kami's sake.

"If you built it correctly it wouldn’t need to be handled so delicately." He aggressively stated as he stomped over to the controls.

"Jerk!" I sneered as he stood off to the side keeping a decent distance away from me. 

I glared back at the controls and proceeded to give him the rundown on how to start either program. "To get the program running you have to come over here and press this button, then you need to select which one you want to work with, this one is offensive, this one is defensive," I explained, glancing up occasionally to make sure he was paying attention. I continued to walk him through the rest of the demonstration. "All the other bots are susceptible to the program so they should automatically update when you start either program, but it will take a decent amount of time for their systems to process the update. That’s why you have those four." I finished my small speech and looked up to the Saiyans’ cold stare.

He was so hard to read. "Got it?" I coaxed lightly.

He growled, "Yes I got it, leave! I need to train immediately!" He demanded.

I rolled my eyes at his aggressive behavior and turned to storm out of the gravity room. I slammed the door behind me and walked towards the back door. I was slightly aggravated but I did not let his harsh attitude affect my mood. It wasn't like him to be nice  but would it kill him to thank someone for their hard work every once and while. 

When I made it to the door I let out a deep breath; he wouldn't ruin Christmas for me by being a jerk that's for sure.