Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ Learning to Love ❯ Chapter Seven ( Chapter 7 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

By: Bulma16

Edited April 9, 2008

Hi everyone! Bulma16 here! LONG time, no see, huh? LOL, yeah, I know and trust me, it was as hard as hell to not be able to write anything. But I'm back to doing what I enjoy so I it works out pretty well all around, huh? Anyway, if you're reading this, you're probably going to want to re-read chapter 6 for a refresher. Without Further Ado, I Invite You to Enjoy The Next Chapter!

Learning to Love: Chapter Seven

Teacher's Quarters

Several days later…

Bulma threw the magazine she'd been reading to the floor, stood up and began pacing; her dark blue eyes alight with rage. "This is so freaking boring! I mean, we've finished grading assignments, you cleaned the whole living area, and I've read all the damn science magazines they have and I'm dying of boredom here."

Chichi didn't bat a lash. Her high strung friend had been antsy for a while now. She'd learned shortly after meeting her friend years ago that once the brainy scientist got bored, she got moody. Bulma needed to constantly be challenged, to do things or there was no telling what she'd do.

Thank Kami-sama Vegeta's been gone the last 8 days otherwise I think she'd take it out on him, she thought, getting off of the couch to go to the kitchen. "Why don't you lie down for a couple of minutes and we can think of something to do later?" she suggested calmly.

Bulma halted her pacing for a second and then finally flung herself on the couch, fluffing the pillows rather furiously. "All right…ten minutes max, and then we're going to think of something to do before I go Anyla on everyone."

Chichi laughed at her friend's remark. "Kami forbid! One psycho-bitch is enough for the world."

Bulma felt herself drifting off and she closed her eyes willing her body to succumb to the overwhelming desire to just relax.

The Throne Room
Approximately half an hour later

"What in the seven hells is the matter with you Kakkarot?" the King snapped angrily as he tried for the 3rd time to get the man's attention.

Kakkarot snapped to attention, his cheeks turning pink with embarrassment. "I.I apologize sire. My mind was on other things." He trailed off, the dreamy look returning to his face.

Vegeta closed his eyes and took a deep breath, exhaling slowly. He opened his eyes again, a little calmer and smacked his guard in the back of his head, an irritated look on his face. "Snap out of it you fool."

The Guard winced at the force of the blow. "I'm sorry, sire, it won't--"

"And what could possibly be making you more absent minded than usual Kakkarot?" Vegeta asked, his angry tone not betraying his interest in the answer.

The young man's face colored slightly. "Uh, I guess the right question would be who, sire."

The King's face showed his surprise at this response and then immediately changed to show his disgust. "Oh for fuck's sakes Kakkarot, don't tell me your mind is on that dark haired wench."

Kakkarot's head bowed low and he said nothing.

Vegeta made a disapproving sound and after a moment of silence sighed. "And I suppose this isn't just one of those one-night things you're going to get out of your system, is it?"

"I'm certain it isn't. I would like the two of us to be joined sire."

The King crossed his arms over his chest, a puzzled expression on his face. "And why do you want to do this Kakkarot? What are you getting out of this arrangement? You've known her for such a short amount of time; how are you so certain that this is going to work out?"

The Royal Guard took a deep breath, his voice full of his pent up emotion. "I can just tell, sire. I-it's like we're the only two beings in the universe when I'm with her and I feel that I can be comfortable being myself. I don't want anything out of our Joining other than the chance to be with her," he said softly.

A little uncomfortable with the amount of emotion visible in the young man's face and in his voice, Vegeta looked away from Kakkarot from a moment, his face unreadable. After what seemed to be an eternity to Kakkarot, the ruler sighed and turned to face him. "If you're sure that this is what you want, then go ahead and do it Kakkarot. Just remember there is no backing out of this Joining, no matter what."

Kakkarot grinned from ear to ear. "I know sire, and thank you. May I go tell her the news?"

Vegeta rolled his eyes. "If it'll get you out of here, then by all means go."

"Thank you sire," the Guard said sincerely, bowing before rapidly walking out of the throne room.

Vegeta watched him go, a frown on his face as he remembered all that Kakkarot had said about his feelings for the woman. 'It's like we're the only two beings in the universe when I'm with her'. He ignored a voice inside him that told him he knew what that was like.

"Kakkarot is a fool. Joining for such sentimental emotions is always a mistake," he said aloud, as if to convince himself.

A recent conversation with one of his newer subjects, who was a humongous pain in his ass not to mention an eternal thorn in his side, came to mind.

Flashback

She shook her head. "It's better to marry for love."

The King scoffed at her philosophy. "Marry for love? Such weaknesses can be exploited on the battlefield. The very idea is asinine and you and I both know it. Marriages of convenience are the only way."

"Oh really?" she countered, not believing what she was hearing. "Weren't you going to marry Anyla for convenience?"

Vegeta scowled at the mention of his ex's name. "Yes, until I realized how blind I'd been to her less desirable qualities."

"Aha! That's just another reason why marrying for love is better. If you'd cared enough, you would have able to see through her sane act.”

End of flashback

The woman had a point he admitted to himself, scowling at the realization that this woman's annoying voice was somewhere in the back of his mind and that memories of her could pop up at a moment's notice.

That was why he'd left the planet for a week on business, hoping he could `exorcise the demons' in a manner of speaking. No such luck. The moment he'd made his return, he somehow found himself outside of her classroom where he could hear her lecturing about lipid bilayers. Irritated with himself, he'd left and told Kakkarot for the next two days that he would be dining alone. Nine days away from the cheeky earth woman and he could hear, see, taste, and smell her so vividly in his dreams it was like he'd never left her that night outside of her apartment. Vegeta swore as he strode angrily into his private training quarters with cadmium reinforced walls that screwed with ki detectors.

He hated this lack of control. He'd come to the realization that there wasn't much he could do about it; he'd just have to learn to ignore it. And hopefully, he'd be able to keep his...problem, a secret from everyone; especially the woman in question.

Teacher's Quarters

Later that same day

"Love?" he laughed derisively as he said it. "That word doesn't exist for me. And it shouldn't for you either. You're an educated woman; you're no simpleton. You and I know that the very beliefs behind love are based on idealism at best. It's a concept created to sell flowers, candies, and stuffed toys; to put a nice quality to lust."

Bulma sighed deeply, feeling hurt that he would say this and not knowing why. "Listen, Vegeta. I won't deny that what you're saying makes sense, but it's also true that love is a--"

He cut her off, a bored expression on his handsome face. "Love is foolish, when will you learn to admit that? It is responsible for more suicides, murders, and other crimes than you can even begin to imagine." The Saiyan ruler raised his brows as he seemed to sense her growing irritation. "I know you might disagree but think for a moment about why the idea of love may be such a 'turn off."

The human female counted to ten quickly in her head 3 times in three different languages and only spoke once she'd gotten her temper under control once more. “You've made some very valid points,” she started slowly, trying to get her thoughts together.

Vegeta nodded, waving his hand to speed her along. "I know. Now, continue."

Bulma felt heat in her cheeks as the Saiyan's brusqueness began to chafe her last nerve. "Love makes you strong. And it's true that a few people go a little crazy in pursuit of it, fewer still actually find it, but the majority of people are afraid. They have a problem expressing their emotions or recognizing them and may be afraid of being rejected." She paused for a moment and smirked at Vegeta. "Or they could be like you."

He chuckled, not at all bothered by her accusing tone. "Like what exactly?"

"Noncommittal, aloof, unable to feel emotion and above all, and vehement in his denial that he is capable of ever experiencing such any feelings," she said sharply, glaring at him. She smiled as she saw a flicker of anger in his dark eyes. "Oh…but there's an emotion now, sire which convinces me you actually belong in that third category. I bet I can make you feel love for someone other than yourself."

The young ruler guffawed at this last statement. "Like hell you will. And who am I supposed to 'fall in love with'?" He gave her a diminutive once over. "You?"

Bulma's cheeks flushed, in embarrassment this time, as she wondered why the policy with her nowadays was 'open mouth; insert foot'. "Yes, I know I could do it."

Vegeta laughed softly, a look of amusement on his strong, tanned features. "Would you like to bet on it?" he asked her, a challenge in his dark eyes as he held his hand out in the earth custom.

Bulma met his gaze squarely as she grabbed his hand and shook it firmly. "Yes. To the winner?"

"The winner will--"

"Wake up Bulma! Wake up!"

It was just a dream, Bulma thought as she sat up slowly, yawning. "What is it Chichi?"

Her friend's eyes glowed in excitement and she took a deep breath. "Well, you missed everything while you were zonked out and I didn't dare wake you, but I just had to wake you and tell you something. About half an hour ago Kakkarot came and asked me to marry him...well, not marry him exactly but come as close to it as possible according to the traditions here on Vegetaseii."

Bulma's blue eyes widened in surprise and she smiled up at her friend. "Congratulations! I'm so excited for you! When is the ceremony?" she asked.

For the past several days, her best friend had spent virtually every moment with the King's guard, so Bulma wasn't too surprised. Still, it was going to be different having a best friend that was married…

Chichi flushed red and looked away in embarrassment. "Well, actually it's today, and--"

"Today?" Bulma repeated incredulously. "Why are you guys doing this on such short notice?"

"We decided," her friend paused for a moment as she tried to recall the moment exactly. "We decided that it would be better this way. I feel complete with him and him with me, so why drag out an engagement?"

Bulma shrugged. "That makes sense. I guess I'd better get dressed for the ceremony then.” She got up from her seat on the couch and started walking toward her bedroom.

"Wait, Bulma...wait," Chichi said, her eyes downcast. "I-it's a very private, personal ceremony and I-well, no one outside of the two of us and the cleric is allowed to be present except for the King."

Her best friend stopped in her tracks, her hand lowering from the doorknob. "Oh, I see." She fixed what she thought to be a cheery smile on her face as she turned to face the bride to be. "Well, I wish you both the very best of luck Chichi. I know you'll be happy together."

Choking back a sob, Chichi crossed the room and embraced Bulma, her body shaking with silent sobs. "I'm so sorry Bulma. I know this probably isn't very fair to you. I mean, I'm leaving you here all alone...and I don't even think I'm going to be working with you anymore."

It just gets better and better! Bulma thought, patting her friend's back in a reassuring manner. "Oh, forget about me. I'll be fine! Just promise me," she began, looking into the brunette's face, a smile on her lips. "Promise you'll be unbelievably happy for my sake."

Chichi swallowed the sob that had been threatening to rise up and be heard and smiled, her eyes brimming with tears. "I promise," she swore.

Home of Bardock

"I think I'm going to be sick."

Bardock raised his brows quizzically as he looked up from the device he'd been tinkering with. "What's that, boy?"

Kakkarot gulped nervously, straightening his armor. "I'm being joined today, Father."

His father guffawed. "As I live and breathe! Well son," he began, clapping a congratulatory hand on his son's shoulder. "I hoped this day would come." Bardock smiled at his son briefly and walked to his mini-bar and began to pour up a drink for himself. "I'd offer you one but having a spouse means you'll constantly need your wits about you,” he chuckled. “So, when's the ceremony?"

His son laughed nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Well, uh, that's the funny part. Today...in about 20 minutes."

The older Saiyan raised his brows inquisitively. "Tell me you're kidding Kakkarot." He shook his head at the silence that served as his answer. "Son, rushing into these things is never a good idea."

"Father, we both wanted to do this now."

Bardock rolled his eyes turning his back to the bar and looking his son squarely in the face a slight grin on his face. "Yeah, you just want to get straight to the post ceremonial proceedings."

Kakkarot blushed slightly, looking elsewhere. "Well, that's part of it..."

His father laughed, raising his glass in his son's direction. "My blessing to you both; may your first child come swiftly and easily."

"Thank you."

Bardock grinned at his son, a rare show of affection on his face. "Now go find your woman before she changes her mind."

Kakkarot smiled. "Thanks again Father." He saluted Bardock and left, most of his nervousness gone.

Sighing deeply, Bardock sat down in his favorite chair. It was going to be much quieter around there without Kakkarot hanging around. "Wait a second," he said aloud, his eyes growing wide with alarm. "He isn't really bringing her here, is he!?"

The Newly Joined Couple's New Rooms; #96
Hours later…

Chichi yawned sleepily, smiling as she felt her mate stir beside her. Their private ceremony had been unlike anything she'd imagined as a child. But the words spoken had been so beautiful, and the look in Kakkarot's eyes so loving that Chichi had cried in spite of herself.

She stretched languidly wincing as her knee hit Kakkarot's back; he didn't seem to feel it because he merely made a grunting noise and went back to sleep.

This is so unbelievable, she thought to herself, smiling. I never imagined that I'd one day get to be happy like everyone else. And I certainly never imagined that'd I'd ever fall in love in such a relatively short amount of time.

Carefully, she eased out of the bed, trying not to stir the slumbering Kakkarot, slipped on a T-shirt that she had brought with her from her old room with Bulma and went to the bathroom. Chichi flicked on the light and stared at herself in the mirror, wondering if she looked different now that she was almost deliriously happy. Other than the smile on her face which could also pass as a delighted smirk, she looked no different; she only felt different. Like a whole new person.

The human female laughed softly, locating her brush amongst Kakkarot's things and brushing her hair slowly, a self-satisfied expression on her face. All her life she'd wanted to be loved and to love someone and now she had it. There was only one thing missing now…and well, she and Kakkarot had already performed the necessary procedures for this 'missing thing'.

I want to have his child, Chichi thought, pausing in her brushing for a moment as she thought she heard a sound. She quickly dismissed the idea, going back to her brushing; a whimsical expression on her face.

"Not tired, huh?"

His mate smiled at Kakkarot's face in the mirror, shaking her head. "Not really. I just wanted to think for a moment. I'm sorry if I woke you."

He grinned, putting his arms around her protectively, resting his head on top of hers. "I missed you."

Chichi put down the brush and leaned into his embrace, her smile back. "I was just about to take a shower."

Kakkarot laughed mischievously. "Let's do it together."

"What?" Chichi turned to face him her expression puzzled. "Oh!" she exclaimed as she realized what she meant. "Let me just put my hair up--"

Her mate shook his head. "Leave it down this time, won't you?" he asked, his eyes darkening with passion.

"All right," she conceded, her smile changing into a devilish smirk. "But only if I can make a request of my own."

"Anything," the Guard promised, wondering what his mate had in mind.

"I want to be in charge; I want you to only do something when I tell you to," she said. For a moment uncertainty graced her face, but it was quickly gone again. "How-how does that sound?"

Kakkarot felt such inexpressible love for her at seeing that lapse of confidence. "Sounds good," he said throatily.

Chichi inwardly sighed with relief as she smiled at him. "All right. First I want you to take off my clothes..."

Teacher's Quarters
That same day…

Bulma was sitting on the couch very carefully considering her situation. She was alone and hating it, but still trying to find the silver lining. I can function just fine on my own. I don't need anyone. Oh who am I kidding; even Anyla would be good company right now, she thought, a wry expression on her face. Gods, I'm pathetic.

A knock sounded on the door.

"Come in!" she called, turning to face the doorway.

A servant walked in and bowed. "The King requests your presence in the dining Hall this night."

Bulma raised her brows quizzically as she pondered why the King would do such a thing after avoiding her for so long. Maybe he realized how lonely she would be upon the move-out of her best friend and he wanted to make sure she wasn't alone? Yeah right

"Tell him I said," she paused, trying to decide how she would be better served to finish the sentence. "Tell him…I'll be there," she said finally.

The servant bowed again and scrambled out of the room.

Bulma sighed, relieved that she had fought the impulse to ask the servant to stay and talk to her for a moment. Damn Bulma, what is wrong with you? It's as if I have a fear of being alone or something, she thought trying to laugh the idea off. But the more she thought about it the more it sounded credible. That's ridiculous. I don't have monophobia! The human female shook her head as if to shake these thoughts from her mind. She didn't need to be worrying about this right now.

Her stomach growled and she glanced at her watch. It was close to dinnertime. Vegeta cut it awful close with the invite, she thought, frowning irritably.

Sighing, she stood up and for once in her life found that the last thing on her mind was her attire for that day. Not that she looked bad; she was dressed quite simply in a little black dress with matching black heels. Bulma made a grim face as she tied her hair up in a high ponytail with a black ribbon as she stepped out of the door, waiting until it locked behind her before she began her trek to the Dining Hall. This just might be separation anxiety Bulma. I can't believe I'm having so much anxiety now, just because I'm all alone in such a strange place...with strange people.

She frowned; Vegeta had just better leave me the hell alone today. I'm not in the mood for his bullshit and mind games.

The Dining Hall
Minutes later…

Lettuco and Bardock both burst into hearty chuckles as Lord Vegeta finished telling his story.

"As I live and breathe, you have the most uplifting and, uh, amusing stories of anyone I know, Lord Vegeta," Lettuco finally got out between bouts of laughter.

The former King chuckled. "That's something I pride myself on; being able to share these stories with you all." he trailed off significantly, his gaze resting on both Bulma and his son, who hadn't even seemed to be listening. He put his hand on Bulma's shoulder, smiling reassuringly when she jumped slightly. "Am I boring you my dear?"

Bulma blushed and shook her head in embarrassment as she realized all eyes were on her. "No! Not at all! I was just lost in my thoughts."

Lord Vegeta nodded his solemnly. "Aha, well, I'll leave you to those for a moment." He glanced at his son who was currently glowering down at his plate. "Son," he said softly, a smile on his face. "Has the food done something to upset you?"

Vegeta's glare shifted to rest on his father and he flushed ever so slightly. "Old man, you fucking talk too much," he growled.

Lettuco and Bardock raised their brows quizzically, trying to guess what could possibly be bothering the two sullen occupants of the room.

"Has something happened between the two of you?" Lord Vegeta finally asked into the silence that followed his son's reproachful statement.

Bulma shook her head, picking up her fork and beginning to eat to give the semblance of normalcy. "No! I'm just-it's kind of hard adjusting to losing your best friend in such a short span of time."

Bardock nodded once in understanding. "That makes sense."

"I'm fine though, I promise," she said, smiling brilliantly at everyone.

Lord Vegeta glanced at his son to see if he had any reaction to these words, but the boy was seemingly in another world. He shook his head disapprovingly. "Such a beautiful woman such as yourself shouldn't be left in that apartment all alone." He grinned mischievously. "Want to move in with me?"

Vegeta frowned at his father then. "Don't be disgusting, that's--"

"It was just a joke," the older man said, chuckling as he saw the color creeping into Bulma's cheeks.

The earth female smiled at him. "Thank you, my Lord, but I wouldn't dare impose on the territory of the harem girls. They'd never forgive me for keeping you all to myself," she teased.

"Stop this nauseating talk this very moment," the younger Vegeta ordered, an angry scowl on his face.

Bulma frowned at him. "It was just a joke, sire. Why don't you lighten up?"

Lettuco and Bardock held their breaths in the silence that followed the female's statement, waiting for the imminent blow-up from Vegeta. Instead, they were relieved to see something resembling a smile-at least in form-on his face.

"You," he said almost wistfully, meeting her intense blue gaze. "You're always questioning my authority around here." His voice began to harden as he continued. "Need I remind you, woman, that I am the one in charge here not you. You'd be wise to keep that in mind."

She let out a burst of laughter, the tumultuous look in her eyes betraying her anger as she innocently spoke the words that nearly drove Vegeta to the edge. "How could I possibly forget sire when you're constantly throwing your weight around."

No one dared to even breathe; the silence that followed the earthling's insult was deafening.

"Get out," Vegeta said softly, his burning obsidian eyes locked on hers.

"With pleasure--" she began, standing up.

"Not you," Vegeta continued, never releasing her from the hold of his gaze or raising his voice. "Everyone else; get out. Right fucking now."

All three Saiyans immediately got up to leave. Bardock hesitated a moment before he walked through the door, glancing back as if to say something, but Lord Vegeta clapped an arm on his shoulder and shook his head. The doors quietly shut behind them.

Bulma glared at Vegeta, letting all the pent up anger and passion she'd tucked away so long ago resurface. "How dare you," she said lowly, her voice trembling with fury.

He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back in his chair, never breaking their eye contact. "I've allowed you to get away with far more transgressions than anyone…ever. Perhaps I was so lax in administering punishment because of your ignorance of both, my culture and decent manners, but--"

"Ignorance!? If anyone on this fucking planet is ignorant, Vegeta, it's you!" Bulma exclaimed.

The King's eyes flashed with fury, but it was quickly hidden behind his mask of composure. "This is your last chance. I will not give you another one; do you understand? I know I've said this before, but now I mean it. If you ever contradict or disrespect me again, you'll pay the price."

Bulma laughed, her blue eyes sparkling maliciously. "Oh come off it. You're pathetic, Vegeta. If you think for one second that you can frighten me into respecting you, you're dead wrong."

Vegeta let his mask drop, a scowl adorned his features. "You're making this more difficult than it has to be," he warned her, his voice full of his rapidly growing impatience.

She tossed her ponytail haughtily, crossing her arms over her chest. "You can make threats until the cows come home. I'm not afraid of you," she said defiantly.

He laughed, and for a split second, it seemed to Bulma as if he was both on the other end of the table and directly in front of her, until she realized that he had actually moved that fast. She refused to let herself give any outward sign of discomfort as she scowled into his eyes.

Vegeta smirked as he looked deeply into her eyes. "You're foolish not to be."

Bulma forced a laugh of her own as she felt her knees quiver ever so slightly at his proximity. "How could I ever be?"

The King's smirk grew as he seized her by her shoulders, exerting a slight amount of pressure. "I think the real question is how you could not be. Your kind is so fragile Bulma...it'd be so easy," he said softly, almost seductively as he gently wrapped his hands around her slender throat.

The human female knew that if he moved even half a centimeter lower he'd feel her rapid pulse beating and that would betray her false bravado, but was determined not to let his words or actions affect her expression. "Is that what turns you on?" she asked throatily, her eyes searching his for answers. "Scaring the shit out of women and having them beg for mercy?" Her voice was contemptuous as she mocked him in falsetto. "'Oh no, please no, Vegeta. I'll do anything if you'll only stop.'" She scowled at him, returning her voice to normal. "You're revolting."

His smirk disappeared and was replaced with his customary scowl. "You couldn't be any further from the truth," he bit out, denying her claim.

Bulma unfolded her arms and held them at her sides to hide the trembling of her hands. "You're disgusting to do something like this. Go ahead and kill me then. Death is better than having to put up with you," she hissed, her eyes burning with fervent dislike.

Vegeta stared at her, stunned for a moment, and then suddenly smirked as he seemed to realize something. "Nice bit of acting, but I'm not buying it."

"What-what the hell are you talking about?" she demanded, rattled by his statement.

The King said nothing as he gently moved his hands so that they were cupping her cheeks, his voice low and seductive as he spoke. "You might say that I repulse you or that you find the very presence of me nauseating, but your body says otherwise."

Bulma cursed the blush that came to her cheeks. "You're wrong," she wanted to shout, but it came out sounding more like a sigh.

He pressed his body against hers and chuckled softly. "Then tell me to stop, Bulma. Tell me to stop right now and I will." He sensually traced his fingers up her spine and then ran them through her hair, watching her face closely for her reaction.

She was literally shaking in an attempt to fight her body but was unable to keep in the tiniest of sighs from between parted lips.

Vegeta kissed her then, gently, briefly and looked into her eyes again. "Tell me to stop now and never see you again, and I can give you my word that I will never bother you again," he said, his voice husky with an unspoken promise of a night of exhilarating passion. "Now's the time Bulma; tell me that you are not attracted to me."

The blue haired woman looked up at him and thought of all the reasons why this was happening: she was lonely, she needed companionship, not only that, but Vegeta was damned good looking and there was no denying the chemistry between the two of them. Sweet Kami, what the hell am I doing? This is insane, she told herself.

"Don't," she said, breathlessly without any sign of a tremor in her voice. "Don't stop."

Teacher's Quarters
The next day

Somewhere in the world, the sun was shining, the birds were singing and it was a beautiful day.

Why can't I be there right now? Bulma wondered somewhat grumpily. She hadn't been able to sleep as well as she would have liked after her night with the Saiyan King; after their night of wild, almost rushed lovemaking on the dining table-which Vegeta had hastily cleared with a brush of his arm-they'd decided to try again with the hopes that they could prolong the moment, but both had been too hungry for each other and too eager for contact to let that happen.

Bulma blushed as she remembered her screams' accelerando and how at the time, it hadn't mattered. But now, in daylight, with the prospect of being faced with disapproval by people she respected-namely Bardock-she was starting to feel nervous.

She didn't remember walking back to her rooms however so she could only guess that Vegeta had carried her back and lay her on the sofa and covered her with a blanket. Gods...if Chichi ever finds out what I did-- She flushed in embarrassment.

"What was I thinking? Was I even thinking?" the perplexed female asked herself aloud. But deep inside she knew exactly what had driven her to night with the Saiyan King.

"I have no regrets." Her voice was calm and sure, as was the look on her face. It was true. While thinking of under what circumstances and with who she had just had sex with made her feel slightly queasy, a part of her had wanted to try the cocky bastard herself. And she was glad she had. It's like chicken pox…you get it one time in life and you never have to worry about it ever again, she told herself.

Bulma sighed and ordered herself some breakfast using the VAP. "No one ever has to know."

King's Quarters
Thirty minutes earlier

It was a frosty day in Hell that saw Vegeta actually sleeping in his bedroom, and the chances that he'd be in his bed AND sleeping past 0700 hours were deemed to be immeasurably slim. Yet as Bardock walked into the King's quarters at least partially prepared to find the worst, he chuckled at the sight of the young King sprawled on the bed, the twisted sheets giving evidence to the fact that he'd had a restless night.

"Sire," Bardock said lowly, not standing too close for fear of being killed on the spot.

Vegeta's eyes opened; he was fully awake just that quickly. "What time is it?" he demanded, getting out of bed with slight difficulty.

With some effort, Bardock was able to refrain from laughing at the sight of his King fighting to untangle the corded sheets from his body. "0730 sire. And there's a--"

"Meeting I must attend at 0800; yes I know. You may leave now Bardock and wipe that damned smirk off your face," the King ordered in a voice that said he wasn't really in a mood to care.

"Yes, sire." He bowed and left, his shoulders shaking with silent mirth.

Vegeta frowned in irritation as he got dressed, not really concerned with the prospect of being late. His mind was on the events of last night. He wasn't quite sure what to make of them, or what to expect out of Bulma.

Flashback

She looked so docile in sleep. Vegeta almost laughed as he looked down upon the slumbering unclothed female. A pity she'll be awake soon and back to her customary attitude, he thought, a wry expression on his face as he got dressed. Their coupling had been exhilarating and in Vegeta's opinion, a cut above his sexual relationship with Anyla because there had been nothing false between himself and the human female; it had all been based on primal instincts and untainted by ideas of greed, duty, or manipulation.

Vegeta hesitated as he put on his gloves. There was something about that human that made him want her again and again. Even as she had been furiously speaking out against him at dinner that night, he'd found her outrage, in some way, to be arousing. Perhaps it was seeing how passionate she was or how beautiful and intelligent. Or it could just be the fact that I haven't fucked a woman in too long, he thought, dismissing these ideas.

She stirred slightly in her sleep, curling up in a ball to retain her own body heat. Vegeta didn't want to tear his eyes from her, yet he knew he would have to. Sighing wearily, he picked her up ignoring any stirrings of arousal as he kicked the dining room door open and began walking toward her bedroom. He felt the silky strands of her hair brush against his skin and he glanced at her ponytail. It made her look so young and childish, yet he knew that behind that angelic exterior lay a wily, hot blooded shrew.

Luckily, no one was around to see the King carrying the naked female to her rooms or they would have wondered why Vegeta even bothered to see that the woman made it to her room. Using his override code, he was able to get into her quarters. Silently cursing himself, he deposited her onto the couch and covered her with a blanket. Sparing the woman one more glance, he left with his head full of questions that he wanted an answer to; the first of which being would she regret what happened?

End of flashback

And now, the morning after, the more he thought about it, the more he told himself that no matter how she felt about it, he wouldn't allow himself to regret what happened. They both had wanted it, and to be perfectly honest, he'd wanted her long before this.

Something Anyla had somehow picked up on before he had. And his father seemed to approve of his attraction to her for some odd reason.

Glancing at the time, Vegeta left his rooms. He was the ruler of the greatest race in the universe; he had more important things to worry about than some one-night stand with a wench he couldn't honestly stand. Right?

Room 96
That same morning…

"Where are you going?"

Kakkarot grinned at the sound of her sleep-ridden voice. "I've got to go on Guard duty. The King only gave me yesterday off." He walked across the room to her and kissed her. "I'll be back as soon as I can."

Chichi pouted as he turned to go. "Well, if you're going to be gone all day, I can go teach with Bulma, can't I?"

He nodded. "If that'll make you happy, I don't see why not."

She smiled at him, getting out of bed. "Then I'd better get ready to leave too."

The Science Classroom
About an hour later…

"...in instances such as these, the cells multiply rapidly until a hardened mass is formed. Now, we call this mass a tumor. These can be very dangerous to humans because they can spread to different parts of the body using the blood stream--"

RING!!

"And we'll finish discussing this next time! Make sure you're ready for the quiz tomorrow!" Bulma called after the departing students. Once the last child had filed out and the door had closed, she turned to Chichi and smiled. "I'm glad you could be here with me. I thought I'd lost you forever."

Chichi hugged her briefly, a smile on her face. "Never." She raised her dark brows as she gave Bulma a once over. "There's something different about you. I can't quite put my finger on it yet, but once I do--"

Her friend laughed nervously. "I'm the same old me; nothing different here."

The newly married female shook her head, her voice pensive. "No, there's something about your face, you look...more relaxed. Maybe that's the word I'm looking for."

Bulma inwardly sighed with relief. "Whatever you say, Chi. You never did tell me how life 'joined' with Kakkarot is."

The brunette female laughed, blushing slightly. "It's heaven Bulma, honestly. I can't imagine life now without him."

"So," her friend began a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Any plans on whether or not you two will be having any kids?"

Chichi laughed, blushing again. "Well, we went through the motions but we didn't talk about it."

Bulma smiled, packing up her stuff and getting ready to leave. "Just don't forget, you promised to name your firstborn girl after me," she teased.

Her friend laughed, following her outside. "I won't."

"Well," the blue haired female said, her smile slipping slightly. "I guess you've got to get back to your new husband now, huh?"

Chichi shook her head. "No, I don't expect Kakkarot for hours."

Bulma's eyes lit up. "So, do you want to do anything today? Maybe explore outside the city? You know I can't go by myself."

"Well, actually, I was thinking of cleaning up and maybe cooking dinner," she said, laughing nervously. "Sorry."

Bulma shrugged. "That's okay. I'll just grade the papers we did in class today and work on the quiz for tomorrow. See you tomorrow morning," she said waving as they parted ways.

Chichi smiled sadly, feeling as if a portion of their friendship had died now that she was married, but waved anyway. "See you."

The Throne Room
After the King's meeting…

"...I actually believe Frances said that the entire population of his planet was planning on holding a festival on your behalf to encourage peaceful relations and etc; they just want you to sign your approval first to make sure you're okay with it." Kakkarot glanced up from the piece of paper he needed to be signed and into the face of his King. "Sire?"

Vegeta growled in response, his obsidian eyes smoldering with anger as he thought on what Lettuco had told him just before the meeting.

His guard said nothing, knowing that the sullen Saiyan would reply when he was ready to and not a moment before. It seemed that he remained silent for hours-which was in reality only five minutes or so-standing stiffly, waiting for Vegeta to speak.

"She's becoming a problem," he finally said into the silence, his voice low.

Kakkarot raised his brows, rolling up the document in his hands and placing it at the King's side, on the arm of his throne. "Who? The blue-haired woman?" he asked, somehow keeping himself from smirking.

Vegeta scowled at the mention of her, ignoring the document. "No." he trailed off for a moment, his eyes flashing with an unreadable emotion. "I was referring to Anyla," he admitted, finally meeting the other Saiyan's eyes.

"What has that wench done now?"

A dry chuckle escaped the King's lips. "She had one of our ports blown up yesterday."

The Guard winced as he imagined how many may have been killed in one of Vegetaseii's busy ports. "How many--"

Vegeta interrupted him. "No one was killed, fortunately for her, but it's going to cost a hell of a lot of currency to have it repaired."

"Damn," Kakkarot cursed a frown on his usually peaceful face. "That woman has always been a--" he cut himself off, feeling out of line stating his opinion of the King's former lover.

His ruler locked eyes with him, a suspicious look in his dark eyes. "She's always been what? What did you notice about her long ago that I didn't?" he asked slowly, his expression guarded.

Why did I even say anything? The younger Saiyan thought, grimacing. "Well sire, I couldn't help but notice the way she, uh, the way Anyla treated everyone else, and her uh, less than pleasant attitude to everyone that's not you."

"Hmm."

The guard laughed nervously. "But who could've possibly known exactly what she was capable of?" He glanced at his King, hoping that his statement would lighten his angry mood a bit.

Vegeta smiled for a half-second. "Perhaps I was hasty in my choice of a fiancée," he admitted, looking away from the lower-classed Saiyan. "I suppose I let certain...assets influence my decision." He chuckled dryly, his dark eyes shining with self-mocking.

Kakkarot grinned, relieved to see the King's alleviated mood. "What living, breathing male isn't guilty of that?"

Planet Freeze: Zarbon's Quarters
Two weeks later…

Ah damn, he thought as he realized the woman lying in his bed was dead. He grunted with abhorrence, using his foot to knock her dead body to the floor. "Disgusting waste of money," he muttered, getting out of his bed slowly, pulling on some shorts.

He walked into his bathroom, picking up his earrings on the way and putting them into his ears. The officer grinned at his handsome reflection, combing out his long green hair and braiding it tightly, lastly putting on his headdress.

His mind went to the dead girl on the floor. It didn't take a towering mental giant to see that the girl had killed herself after their night in bed together. Zarbon frowned. And how did she get out of those handcuffs? he wondered absently. He quickly began to think of something else, just the thought of handcuffs exciting him.

BEEP, BEEP! BEEP, BEEP!

"Shit," he cursed, giving the mirror a parting glance before dashing into his living room in order to answer the Visual and Audio Projector.

"Dodoria. What the hells do you want?" he growled once the image of the large pink warrior came on screen.

"Some bitch called here for you!" he complained. "She keeps saying that it's really important that she speaks to you."

Zarbon's eyes had lit with interest once he realized this was about a female. "What's her name?"

Dodoria's faced screwed up with concentration. "I'm not sure. She looked like a Saiyan though. I think her name was--"

"Anyla!"

"Yeah, that's it," the fat warrior agreed.

Zarbon contained the urge to kill the ignorant ball of lard. "What the hell are you waiting for?! Put her through so that I can talk to her!" he demanded angrily.

Dodoria scowled, throwing his fleshy arms up in anger. "What do I look like; a fucking secretary?!"

"Just do it," the angry officer ordered in a calmer tone.

"Fine, fine. Hold on a second," Dodoria growled, looking for the right button on his computer. "I think this is the --"

"Ah there you are," Anyla purred as she suddenly appeared on Zarbon's screen. She was sitting before her machine with her legs crossed.

The green haired man grinned lazily. "What did you want to tell me, love?"

The beautiful Saiyan woman frowned, leaning forward as she spoke. "I've left Vegetaseii. Vegeta found out was I was up to, so I had to leave."

"Ah, and you want to know if you can come stay here on Planet Freeze," the suave officer supplied in that appealing accent of his.

Anyla slowly uncrossed and re-crossed her legs, having purposefully worn a revealing skirt. "If there's a place where I could stay," she said huskily, batting her lashes.

Zarbon grinned appreciatively at her display, glad that the slave girl he'd bought just last night was out of the way. "How about you stay at my place?" he suggested.

The manipulative woman winked at him. "Sounds like a plan! See you soon, lover." She blew him a kiss and then disconnected.

Freeza's right hand man chuckled as he disconnected his own machine. "I guess I won't have to worry about buying any more girls for a while."

Outside of the Dining Hall
The next evening

"Are you absolutely certain about this?"

Lord Vegeta nodded his head solemnly. "Just watch and you'll see for yourselves."

Bardock and Lettuco looked at each other and nodded. "All right...but you know that no one will agree with it."

"Since when have we been a race able to agree on much of anything?" the older Saiyan countered lazily, entering the hall.

The two officers shrugged and followed, bowing as they saw that the King was already present.

"So, you have nothing better to attend to today old man?"

Lord Vegeta chuckled, sitting down to one side of the King. "Nothing is more important than dining with my son."

Vegeta snorted. "You're so full of shit old man; I don't know why I keep you around."

Kakkarot and his mate entered followed by Bulma. All three bowed and took their customary seats.

Bardock raised his brows. "Well son, this is the first time in a long time I've seen you and your mate here around this time in the evening."

Chichi blushed, remaining silent and Kakkarot grinned sheepishly. "Yeah, usually this time of the evening we're--"

"Officer Lettuco, how are things working out on the North East dock?" Bulma interrupted trying to spare Chichi the embarrassment of having her sex life spread before all these men.

The Coordinator cleared his throat. "Well, it should be completely up and running in about a week."

Bulma nodded, not really caring about the answer, but just trying to make her interruption sound legit. "I see."

Lord Vegeta elbowed Bardock and jerked his head ever so slightly in the direction of his son.

The Lieutenant obliged and was surprised to see the King looking at the blue haired woman with a curious look in his eyes he was unable to identify. Confusion maybe? But it's certainly not what Lord Vegeta was talking about.

"What a pain in the Royal derriere, huh? Having to stay on your toes for people like her?" the former king said sympathetically.

Vegeta moved his gaze to his father. "And not only her, but people who sympathize with her." He scowled darkly, spearing his food fiercely. "She's out there making me look like a traitor to our race," he said angrily.

Bulma allowed herself a quick glance at the King before she moved her eyes back to her food. "And who are the people who follow her?"

He quickly hid his surprise. It was the first time she'd spoken to him since the night they'd had sex in that very room and on this very table. "Some outcast Saiyans and I've heard there may be some other weaklings involved also," he said casually.

Bardock nodded his head at Lettuco who cleared his throat. "Sire, there's probably a very good reason for that."

"And that reason would be what?" the King asked sharply.

The Coordinator extracted a rolled up piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to him. "It seems that you've lost favor with a lot of people over this issue. We're not sure why, but it may just be the issue of you getting, uh, dumped by Anyla…who wasn't very well liked in the first place. But uh, it would seem that people like the idea of you getting dumped by her even less."

Vegeta laughed bitterly. "You just can't win."

Bulma felt a pang of sympathy for him then. She knew that feeling well.

Upon silent urging from Lord Vegeta, Lettuco continued. "The only uh...solution to this problem that I can think of would be if uh...someone else was to take the position previously occupied by Anyla."

Chichi looked up in alarm, her worst fears surfacing in her mind, but she remained silent.

Kakkarot's brows raised in surprise as he began to pay attention to the conversation around him once again. "You mean that--"

The King's brows knit together. "What you're saying is that..." he trailed off, a sick feeling developing at the base of his stomach as he mentally contemplated the statement.

"That politically speaking, getting joined would be a good idea," Lettuco supplied, a grim expression on his face.

Vegeta scowled darkly. "We all know that--"

His advisor sighed wearily. "That there are no more 'superior' female specimens left on the planet? Yes sire, that's true. Anyla was the last of the lot."

Chichi frowned, not at all liking the phraseology. "Superior female specimens?"

Bardock cut in before Lettuco could begin his explanation. "Females that are worthy of becoming the Queen of Vegetaseii; they have to be beautiful, possessing of superior intelligence, able to bear children, and their DNA has to be compatible with that of us Saiyans."

The King's guard sighed. "Believe it or not, we've been having trouble finding women to fit that description. The pureblooded Saiyans aren't intelligent enough; the alien women living here aren't compatible."

Bulma felt herself blushing for no apparent reason; she suddenly wanted to say, 'I fit that description! I'll take the position!' But common sense told her to hold her tongue.

Vegeta sighed wearily, standing from his seat. "Lettuco, Bardock, Kakkarot…and the old man. To my quarters now," he ordered, already walking from the room.

The four men rose and followed him. Kakkarot grinned sheepishly back at his mate as he left, shrugging as if to say, 'There's nothing I can do about it'.

Chichi sighed, standing up and stretching a bit before looking to her best friend. "You were awfully quiet today Bulma."

The teacher smiled, getting up slowly. "I just didn't have much to say."

Her friend laughed and walked beside her. "Yeah right. No really, why so quiet?"

Bulma shrugged, not really wanting to answer the question. "It's just been one of those days, I guess."

Chichi's smile slipped a little. "Bulma…how do you really feel about the King? I mean, you wouldn't consider joining him would you?"

Silence. And then; "I don't know Chichi. Maybe."

The brunette frowned, stopping in her tracks. "But why? You don't love him do you?"

Bulma laughed humorlessly at that. "No, but..." she trailed off as she remembered the discussion she'd had with Vegeta who'd told her that marriages of convenience were superior the so called love based ones. "I've decided love isn't for everybody. I'm too old to be chasing fairy tales, Chi."

Her friend felt a pang of sadness for her then. "Oh, that's a horrible thing to say Bulma! I felt the same way not too long ago, but now look at me; undeniably happy with a man who loves me in his own little loopy way."

Bulma shook her head, refusing to listen. "Love is too personal, it affects people too much. I want my marriage to be business. Just business; and I know any joining with Vegeta would be just that."

The King's Quarters
A few minutes later…

"And you swear on the life of your daughter that this is true?" Vegeta asked his expression still weary.

Lettuco nodded solemnly holding up his right hand. "I swear it."

Lord Vegeta glanced at Lettuco for a moment. "Son, it all makes sense when you think about it."

"I know it does. It just seems odd."

Kakkarot leaned against the wall, crossing his arms over his chest. "Yeah, I agree with you sire." He sighed as he remembered the last search. "The last time just seemed to last forever, didn't it?" he mused aloud.

Bardock turned to face Vegeta. "Sire, I know that the process of looking for a suitable candidate is tiring but we're prepared with a list of candidates that have recently come of age. Once we have them tested--"

The King held up his hand impatiently. "Don't even bother. I already have a person in mind."

"Who?" his guard asked, his brows knitting together as he tried to imagine who might have caught the King's eye.

"Bulma," the two Vegeta's said at the same time-much to the amusement of the newly married Kakkarot.

The King glared at his father, ignoring his Guard's laughter. "What the...old man, how did you--"

Lord Vegeta grinned. "I'll tell you later, son."

Vegeta shrugged, not that concerned. "There are a couple of things though that need to be discussed before this issue can be brought before her."

Lettuco nodded. "For example, the nature of your relationship."

"Strictly business," Vegeta said quickly. "I feel nothing for the woman. I merely know that she accurately fits the criteria for suitable candidates."

"Uh huh," his father said, his tone making it clear that he didn't believe that.

Bardock frowned, a little surprised to actually see that the older Saiyan had been right about the King's interest in the girl. "Sire, is it absolutely necessary that we do this? Is there no other recourse?"

The King shrugged a glint of amusement in his otherwise deadpan expression. "There doesn't seem to be at the moment Bardock. But who knows, perhaps there is something we haven't considered. Either way, it won't really matter will it Lieutenant? It's not as though anything bad could come from it."

Lettuco cleared his throat, scratching the back of his head. "You're right of course, sire. Her race will matter little and she seems to be respected by many of our kind already."

Lord Vegeta frowned. "I think my son was trying to say that due to the fact that the relationship will be based on business, there will be none of the normal scruples or scandals associated with most First Class Joinings."

The Royal Guard crossed his arms over his chest, his brow furrowing in thought. This idea made sense to him; not that he approved of being joined for convenience, but as long as both parties were happy, he didn't really care. "I have a question though. What is she getting out of this? From uh, some of the things she says, I kind of get the impression that she'd rather die than be anywhere near you." He grimaced after he finished. "If you don't mind my saying so, sire."

The former King chuckled. "I guess we're picking up the same signals then boy, because that's what I had deduced myself." He looked to Lettuco and Bardock for support but both refrained from commenting.

"A good question, Kakkarot," Vegeta said languidly. "What do I, the King of all Saiyans, possibly have to offer her?" he asked sarcastically.

"She's a human sire and from what I've heard from my mate, a good one. She's been raised to join only for love."

His ruler hesitated a moment. "She's no fool. She'll see that the advantages in this dealing far outweigh any so-called love prospects" he said finally.

Kakkarot pressed on. "Like what sire?"

Vegeta raised his brows at the officer's persistence but answered anyway. "My position of power would be a major plus for her, not to mention the fact that she'd be free to do anything she so desires providing that it doesn't interfere with what I have to do."

His father shrugged. "I suppose I can see the appeal in that. The only question is; would she be willing to overlook both her 'moral beliefs' about joining and her apparent dislike for you, for all of that."

The younger Vegeta merely shrugged, outwardly unconcerned, but inside of his mind, he was wondering the same thing.

Teacher's Quarters
About 15 minutes later…

Bulma ran her fingers through her hair impatiently as she tried to concentrate on the papers before her. It was no use. No matter how hard she tried to concentrate on the quizzes over malignant cell development, memories of him kept surfacing. Memories of their night together, of their sexually charged arguments, or just images of him: smirking, scowling, or his expression that night when they had simultaneously experienced euphoria as their bodies rode the tide to ecstasy. Bulma flushed slightly at that memory and she discarded the quizzes in order to get a cold drink.

She filled her glass with cold tap water and took a long sip, sighing. A slight movement from the corner of her eye caused her to stiffen and quickly turn to see who-or what-could have gotten into her rooms. She dropped the glass to the floor without realizing that it splashed her bare feet, the coldness of the water causing her to reflexively clench her toes. "You," she said breathlessly as she saw the man who'd been haunting her thoughts all day in the flesh, standing in her doorway.

Vegeta wasn't sure what to make of her reaction so he merely nodded in response to her exclamation. He closed the door behind him and stepped into the room, crossing his arms over his chest.

Bulma's knees wobbled ever so slightly. "What are you doing here?" she asked, her voice not betraying her inner turmoil.

His lips curled up ever so slightly and Bulma quivered as she remembered what he could do with those lips. "I'm here to make a business proposition to you," he said, his voice decidedly without any trace of emotion.

"What do you mean?" she asked, taking a step toward him, just barely avoiding stepping on a piece of the shattered glass.

Vegeta took a breath. "You remember what Lettuco was talking about at dinner tonight? And how we discussed the lack of female specimens here on the planet?" he began, his voice that of someone completely bored with the topic.

Oh. My. Kami. H-he's really going to ask me. "Yes, I'll do it," she said quickly.

The Saiyan ruler raised his brows in surprise. That had been surprisingly painless. "You didn't even have to think about it," he said, his voice slightly mocking.

Bulma inwardly cursed herself for her eagerness. "Of course I didn't," she said her voice cold and matter-of-fact. "I'd just be a fool to pass up the opportunity to be joined with someone in your position." She forced a laugh.

The King was surprised to find that a part of him disliked this answer, but he hid his reaction, nodding instead. "You're wise to drop that 'joining for love only' bullshit for a more logical solution," he said smoothly, waiting to see her reaction.

The female dropped her aura of confidence for a second, and then quickly restored it. "I know and you made a wise decision choosing me. I will not disappoint you."

Vegeta smirked at her statement. "And just how exactly do you mean that? Because if you mean sexually, well, I already know that to be true."

"I meant," she said with the slightest twinge of anger in her voice. "That you will not worry that I will turn out like your last choice of fiancée."

Her quip got the desired result; Vegeta's self-satisfied smirk quickly transformed into a frown at her mention of Anyla. "That remains to be seen."

It was Bulma's turn to be insulted. "You can't possibly compare me to that despicable bitch!" she exclaimed, her body shaking with pent up anger.

Vegeta chuckled. It was amazing; even in times like this where they were verbally sparring with each other with 15 feet between them, the sexual chemistry was still strong. He knew from the fire in her eyes and from subtle clues given off by her body that she could feel it too. "No," he admitted huskily, crossing the room to her. "Anyla wasn't as beautiful as you…or as intelligent…or as infuriatingly determined to keep me in a perpetually permanent state of outrage as you are." He ran his fingers through her hair wonderingly and then caressed the silky skin of her cheeks in his hands, his eyes taking on an expression Bulma had never seen there before and that she couldn't for the life of her place.

She felt her anger fly out of her window as his touch seemed to bring her to life. "W-w-why are you saying these things?" she asked her voice shaking.

He paused, his dark eyes amused. "Am I not permitted to compliment my fiancée?" he asked his voice light and mocking.

Bulma felt her stomach flip-flop in response to that tone and she had to tear her eyes away from his to reply. "I wish," she cleared her throat and met his eyes, her own dark with confusion. "I wish you wouldn't say things you don't mean."

The King's smirk disappeared. "I never say anything I don't mean. Remember that," he advised her coolly. He removed his hands from her face and turned to leave.

Bulma cursed herself for what she was about to do. "Vegeta, wait!"

He found himself stopping in spite of himself, something in her voice making him do as she asked. He turned to face her, his face expressionless.

"I'm sorry. I'm just so used to...I guess I'm not used to this yet," she admitted, feeling very self-conscious beneath his intent gaze. She smiled weakly at him. "I guess I'm just too used to us insulting each other all the time."

Vegeta's voice was filled with amusement. "Would you prefer it if I insulted you all the time?" he said, mocking her.

The earth woman shook her head, a genuine smile on her face. "No. I think I'll get used to the other thing pretty quickly."

He nodded. "All right then." A mischievous expression came onto his face. "And now to close the deal." He held his hand out to her and Bulma instinctively took it to shake with him, a pleasant smile on her face.

She gasped as he pulled her body against his and kissed her so strongly and deeply that for a moment she could have sworn she saw stars. The female melted against him, unable to do anything at that particular moment but submit to the undeniable feeling of attraction she felt for him. She tilted her head back and wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him even closer to her.

Vegeta noted this and smiled against her mouth for a moment before he burned a trail of hot kisses down her throat. Bulma moaned, quivering against him and the look on her face then, the intense look of pleasure satisfied him. He gently removed her arms from around his neck. "I have some other business to see to. I'll see you at dinner tomorrow," he told her softly, turning to leave.

Bulma silently watched him go; she wanted him, there was no doubt about that, but she wouldn't beg him to stay. She had more pride in herself than that. She pushed her hair out of her face and glanced at the clock. It was nearly 2100 and she still had quizzes to grade.

Once she finished, she got dressed for bed, turning out the light and getting beneath the covers with a sigh. The human closed her eyes, hoping to catch some sleep before morning, but just as she was drifting off, she remembered her dream in which she had made a bet with the arrogant Saiyan King that she could make him fall in love with her.

Bulma smiled to herself in the dark, fluffing her pillow as she got more comfortable. As far as she was concerned, the bet still stood. The blue haired bombshell would prove to Vegeta that love (specifically his love for her) was something forcible and preferential in the long run. You will fall in love with me Vegeta, and when you do…I'll be sure to laugh in your face for ever doubting that it was impossible.

The End of Chapter Seven

Hey thanks for reading folks! This is a SUPER LONG chapter and it's got a lot of stuff going on in it. My favorite part of this chapter was when Bulma and Vegeta are arguing (you're probably thinking, 'which time Claire, you make them argue so much!') and Vegeta starts to be all seductive and tells her that if she wants him to stop then to say so, and Bulma says, 'Don't stop'. I love that part!!

I have a couple of really evil ideas for what's coming up next (needless to say it has something to do with Anyla). But I haven't started chapter eight yet, so there's no preview (sorry folks). Make sure you leave a review and if you want (or need) to be on the ML just email me at if you ever want to chat or anything you can AIM me sometime with any questions or comments or whatever. Also, make sure you read Under Different Circumstances. That story has months of my tears and efforts in it, LOL. All right, I'm going to start working on chapter eight (seriously, I am). So I'll talk to you peoples later!

JA NE!

~BULMA16