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Chapter Twenty Seven

By Rebecca

Looking into the next box, Bulma frowned. Looking at the clock, she realized it was only eleven in the afternoon for her, but most likely midnight for her parents. She grunted, she had told her mother she did not want any pictures to be packed and mailed to her.

Grabbing the first one, she stared. Her eyes began to water. It was a picture of her and Vegeta in the second grade. First day of school and they were waiting for the bus together. Their mothers had accompanied them to the bus stop and took as many pictures as possible. Setting it down, she flipped through the rest. Several pictures of Vegeta and her, there were several of her friends. She smiled faintly, it was graduation day. Everyone was smiling and Bulma rubbed her fingers over Vegeta's figure.

Bulma cleared her throat and put the frame back into the box. Grabbing the packing tape she sealed the box back up. Grabbing a piece of paper she jotted down her parents address. Picking up the box she carried towards the door and set it down.

"Suppose on my way to registration I will just drop you off at the post office," Kicking the box slightly, she turned around. Leaning against the door she glared at her watch again. Another two hours before her registration would take place. Her new apartment was almost ready. It was very different from what she had previously lived in.

Smaller. A lot smaller than a loft. That was for sure. Carpet floors, the front door was in the living room, definitely smaller. The living room had the television mounted, black leather chesterfield type of couch with a matching alderman. Next to it was a bar that lead into the kitchen, small, big enough for what you would expect in a college dorm room with a small table in the middle section. There was one bathroom, extremely large since it was the only one and two bedrooms. The decorations were minimal, Bulma brought only a few things to decorate the house. Her father did how send her an entire office suit to accompany her second bedroom. Equipped with the newest laptop, printer and several other devices.

Her mother had sent over several types of curtains, blankets and bedroom set for her new king sized bed. Her father knew she loved the sleigh bed design and bought her a new bedroom suit as well. Reaching over, she started to rub her upper arm. She shook her head as she looked down at the box one more time before pushing herself off the door and walked into the second bedroom. Sitting down at her computer desk she quickly logged onto the computer and went to her school website. Clicking around quickly, she pulled up her school scheduled and printed followed by her book list and registration orientation information.

Glancing at the clock again she grabbed her jacket and then her paperwork. She walked to the door and slipped into her boots. Bending over, she grabbed the box and walked downstairs. She walked into the elevator and went to push the buttons, the doors started to close-

"Wait-Hold the lift-" Bulma looked around and heard a male running towards the elevator. She clicked the buttons to hold the doors open and then pushed on the doors before they could close. Once the boy entered the elevator, he smiled at Bulma then turned to press the ground level button again. "Thank you," he turned and nodded at Bulma who smiled sheepishly in return.

As he turned back around, Bulma looked over him. He was much taller than her, she suspected at least six five? Maybe taller. His hair was very shaggy, blonde and somewhat curled at the bottom of his next. His shoulders were very broad, he obviously worked out with his next muscles and arms that were thicker than Bulma's next she would almost guarantee. He was holding orientation packet as well that matched hers that was sitting on her box.

"So, where are you headed? Do you need some help?"

Bulma looked up, he was now leaning against the wall and staring at her. She nodded, "I am heading to the post office then to orientation."

"Ah so Oxford I see," He smirked. Bulma smiled faintly and cleared her throat avoiding to make eye contact. That Smirk. All she could think about was Vegeta. "You are American?"

"Yes."

"How long have you been here?"

"Only a couple of weeks."

"Have you been to the Deli Café near campus yet?" He smiled as Bulma shook her head, he chuckled, "Best grub on this side of town."

She smiled, "I might have to try it sometime."

"You should."

They finally reached the bottom of the ground level and the doors opened, they were greeted by another two boys and a girl. She smiled at Bulma and the gentlemen. They walked off the elevator and Bulma stared at the box and then glided past the group. It was obvious that they all knew each other as the two boys shook the one boys hand and the girl patted his back.

"Hey I didn't catch your name?"

"Bulma Briefs-"

"Ah well, it is a pleasure to meet you Ms. Briefs – I am…"

One of the boys came around and put his arm around him and smiled and held out his hand to Bulma, she smiled and set the box on a nearby table and shook his hand, "I am Brad, this is Chris," Patting the boys chest who had accompanied Bulma on the elevator. The other boy and girl stood next to him with a smile, "This is Cindy, sister and this mate here is Chad."

"Nice to meet you guys."

"Are you on your way to orientation?" Cindy smiled at Bulma. She nodded, "Sounds delightful, we are heading there too."

"You should join us-"

"Well I am stopping at the post office first-"

Cindy nudged Chris in the side, "I could-" He stumbled and cleared his throat, "I could help you with that-"

He smiled at Bulma, "I am fine I promise. I should be going though, I will see you guys around?"

"Of course," Cindy nodded as they watched her walk away.

Bulma exited the apartment complex and looked around. The area was set in a quad. It was several streets of different sections leading to the campus. In her quad, there was a few shops for groceries and a post office next door, directly beside her complex was a laundry room and then in the center there was a fountain and some tables with seats, mental design and the area was filled with flowers. It was almost something you would on a show, Bulma smiled. Reminded her almost of a scene from 90210 with one of the living area.

Bulma chuckled and walked towards the post office. Entering the room she walked up to the desk and handed the box to the lady. "Well hello there miss."

"Hey, I need to ship this priority international delivery please, preferable SEKO if possible."

"Of course," She smiled at Bulma and started typing swiftly on her computer. Printing of labels, Bulma watched her process the package. "Will that be all for you today ma'am?"

"Uh yes, thank you."

The lady handled Bulma the receipt with a smile. Bulma grabbed her paperwork and walked out of the office. Looking around, the sun was beaming down, she smiled. It was so different than in California, the sun was different. Bulma giggle, in theory that was just impossible but still, the mindset was just different for Bulma here. She was in a place she had never been to, and she breathed in, deeper this time. Holding the envelop to her chest, she looked to her right and started down the walkway. Looking at the signs, she followed her way to campus grounds.

Bulma woke up and started to rub her eyes, she yawned and then stretched her body. She rolled over and tucked her hand under her cheek. She blinked several times, looking out the window it was before dawn. Grabbing her phone she checked, there were a couple of messages left for her, ChiChi was obviously aware she was now in town and Juu was coming into town in the next day and wanted to meet up. She smiled.

She sat up in bed and pushed her legs over the bed and leaned into her hands. Looking out window, she could see Rita in the kitchen, Vegeta's room lights were still off. He was not home yet she figured. Scratching her head, she yawned again. Remember her mother had said something about Friday. This means she had at least four more days to prepare.

Standing up she glided to the bathroom and started the shower. Quickly getting herself ready, she cleaned herself, brushed her teeth then dried her hair. After curling it into loose curls, she pinned it to the side with a clip. Satisfied with her appearance she walking into her bedroom, dropped her towel and got into a pair of khaki shorts, white tank top with a look grey overthrow shirt. Adjusting it, it, sat on her shoulders barely without falling, slipping into a pair of white and black BOBs. Pulling the sleeves above her elbows, she grabbed her indie throw over purse and walked downstairs.

Hearing her mother steer in the kitchen, she turned in time to see Bulma enter the kitchen. She smiled at her daughter, "Good morning sweetie. That is a cute little outfit-"

"Thank you," Bulma smiled sheepishly, walking to the fridge she grabbed the orange juice. Her mother handed her a glass, Bulma nodded, mouthing thank you and sat it on the counter to fill up. Bunny handed her a plate.

"I made some eggs benedict for you, I am not sure if it tastes as good as your one deli, but I figured I would try," Bunny smiled.

"You always made the best, I am sure it will be amazing," Bulma walked over to the table, setting the plate on the placemat then sat her purse down. Sitting in front of it she began to eat. "So, what time are we going to go to the Hospital?"

"Well visiting hours will start in that section about nine, but he has some theory session which will start in the next hour." Bunny glanced at her watch, "I know that after you left, we sold your car but as a return home gift before everything happened, your father and I purchased a beautiful black xterra for you. Figured you would need something new to get around-"

Bulma smiled, "Thank you,-" she took another bite and cleared her throat. "ChiChi was texting me and I wanted to-"

Bunny nodded and took a sip of her coffee, "I figured. That is why I told you about the car situation, I figured you might want to go visit them first. I didn't want to drag you to the hospital for the tests and theory."

She nodded and finished her food, taking it to the kitchen sink. Drinking the rest of her orange juice she leaned against the cabinet. Crossing her arms she looked at her mom, "I am sorry-"Bulma cleared her throat again, "I am sorry I stopped visiting after I left."

Bunny frowned, "Sweetie, there is nothing to be sorry for. Your father and I set you up to go to Oxford and as far as I can tell you have grown into a wonderful woman. Besides, it isn't like we didn't go visit you for holidays instead-"

"Yeah but, I only came to town once and it wasn't even in California, we went to Indiana for Trevor's wedding, I haven't even-" Bulma choked on her words a little, "I haven't even seen Chi in over four years."

Bunny walked over to her daughter, rubbing her arms she kissed her cheek, "I am sure she understands."

"You know Gohan is eight years old now, hell, me and Vegeta were godparents to him and I haven't see him in four years."

"Oh but he remembers you so much!" Bunny chuckled, "Please do not feel like you shut people out or ran away, you started fresh and as far as I can tell you have lived your life. And as for traveling to see you, it wasn't all to benefit you you know," Bunny smiled, bending down Bulma returned the smile as she looked at her mother. "Your father and Dr. Ouji were going worldwide, it was an excuse to come see you and to travel some more."

"I just, I am sorry I haven't been around."

"You are here now! And once your father is out of the hospital this week we can get things started back up. He has been talking nonstop about your first day at work, we have to get you an apartment once you are ready, I mean so much to do!"

"I am glad," Bulma hugged her mother, Bunny rubbed her back and kissed her cheek, "Now why don't you go and visit ChiChi for a bit. I will be heading out in a second to visit with your father and the doctors. Maybe text me when you want to head over?" Bulma nodded, "I will be there for most of the day anyways. Your father has spent almost two weeks in that hospital and he is wanting the doctors to get him out of there soon."

"Sounds good." Bulma walked over to the table and placed her purse over her shoulder and typed on her phone. Bunny reached in the drawer, handing Bulma keys she smirked, "Thank you. I will text you when I am going to head to the hospital."

"Okay sweetie," Bunny kissed her forehead, rubbing her upper arms again, "Ah you have grown into such a woman I swear. Your father will be so excited to see you."

Bulma walked out of the kitchen and through the front door. Looking around the neighborhood she realized not much had changed. The roads were re-paved and there were obviously some houses that did some remodeling. Her parent's house included. But generally the same. Walking into the garage after opening the door, she smiled at her new car. She clicked to unlock and started the car. Speeding away she started down the road.

She pulled into the driveway. The House was a little of the main road, in the country side of California. They had the view of the beach from their hill where her grandfather had his beach house. Their house was generally small. Nothing too big or fancy like her house or Vegeta's parent's house was. It was a one story, brick with a stone frame with a wood timey feel. The windows were tall and wide, flowers were surrounding the house.

ChiChi was obviously now very big on flower and garden.

She parked her car and shut it down. Locking the door she looked around to the side, seeing a vegetable and a fruit garden, she giggled. They are really into this country life. Bulma knocked on the front door, she crossed her arms.

All of a sudden the door swung open and ChiChi's face lit up. Looking her over, she realized that she had grown so much in the past years. Being a mother had definitely aged her, but in a good way. Her hair was in a bun, straight bangs that reached her eyebrows. She looked somewhat frail in her body, but you could tell she still had a more round body than she used to.

"Oh my goodness!" ChiChi screeched, jumping and clapping her hands she swopped over and grabbed Bulma into a hug. Bulma giggled, ChiChi hugged her, the stepped away, holding her arms, then giggled again and pulled Bulma back into another hug. "Oh I have missed you so much."

Bulma chuckled, patting ChiChi's back, "I have missed you too."

ChiChi grinned, backing up she looked Bulma up and down, "Wow you look so amazing."

"Not really-"

"No I mean it, you have definitely grown up but you look so beautiful," She backed up and held the front door open, "Please come in. We have done so many changes since you last visited, you have to see this fire place Goku built."

"He has become a real handy man," Bulma chuckled. They walked into the kitchen, ChiChi walked over to the stove and started heating up some water. Grabbing two cups and some tea bags, she stared at Bulma with a smile. "So how is everything? I want to hear everything."

Bulma leaned into her palms and smiled, ChiChi giggled. "Well don't think you won't be telling me everything, I have missed so much of your life." The water started steaming, and ChiChi poured the water into two cups. Carrying them over to the table, she handed one to Bulma and then sat down across from her. "Well-" blowing on the cup, she stirred the tea bag into the cup. "Goku really did a lot with my Grandfathers car shop, they opened another shop which Goku is running. He opened a Dojo next store which my father help get started. It is really successful, they teach so many kinds of material arts classes, Tae Kwon Doe, Tai Chi, Muay Tahi which has become to be the most popular right now. I think there was a class Aikido and Hapkido Classes-"

Bulma stared wide eyed, "That is really big-"

ChiChi chuckled, "Yeah they worked really hard on it. Vegeta even came here and help get everything started, and he helps Goku with the funding and budgeting."

Bulma started to chew on her cheek and nodded, "So they are partners or something?"

"I am sorry, I shouldn't have brought him up-"

Bulma took a sip of her tea, "It is fine, I am a curious to find out about how everyone is, I really haven't seen or talked to anyone since last vacation here."

"Yeah a lot has changed-" ChiChi took a sip of her tea, then stirred her spoon once more and sighed. "When you left, Vegeta fell apart. I do not know if you know all the details, but he fell hard. He became an alcoholic, there was a point when we thought he was going to die." Bulma looked at her tea, rubbing the back of her neck she looked back up to ChiChi, "I know that you did what you did because you needed to leave. I don't know-" ChiChi choked on her words. "I don't know what it would have been like to loss a child. I think you did what you needed to, and I think deep down Vegeta understood but something happened."

"I am sorry-"

"Oh don't be, life changes, things happen and you deal. Goku and I helped Vegeta through a lot, his father really kicked him to the curb after he was kicked out of Columbia. Then he went to Notre Dame and screwed that all up," ChiChi rolled her eyes. "After his accident-"

"Juu told me he got a DUI-"

ChiChi pierced her lips, "Yeah, arrested a couple times, but it hit a head when he was in the car accident. I think that helped him see things differently. Then he told Goku that he overheard Juu and me talking about her trip to see you."

"All this happened in two years?"

ChiChi nodded, "Yeah it was insane." She frowned, she looked out the window and then back to Bulma, "You know he went to Oxford to find you-"

Bulma stopped mid sip, her eyes were wide opened. Clearing her throat, she set the cup down and looked at her friend, "When was that?"

"A little after Juu visited you-"

Bulma was stunned, "That was maybe two years ago? Not even I think-"

ChiChi nodded, "Yeah. I don't know why he went. I think maybe after he realized he picked everything back up he wanted to go visit you. Did you not see him?"

Bulma shook her head, "I didn't even know-"

ChiChi shrugged her shoulders, "Maybe he just didn't find you. Oxford I hear is a very big place. But I know that after he came back, Goku started throwing around the idea of a Dojo. So now Vegeta and Goku are partners in this business."

"Things seemed to have worked out well for everyone I see."

"Yeah I think so. Gohan was pretty excited to hear you would be in town. Although I hate the circumstances, but still it is good to have you back."

"It is really good to be back. I think a part of me never really wanted to come back but at the same time, the other day before I was scheduled to come home, I just thought that I really missed everything. I really missed high school."

ChiChi chuckled, "That is a scary thought too."

"Do you ever regret anything? I mean-"

"I truly wish I was not a teen mom to be honest. I think about everyone off in college, Goku only completed to get his associates degree but none the less went to college. I heard Krillen is big wig NFL Coach for the Patriots, hell Juu changed her major I think five times before she ended up going into Seventeen Magazine I really couldn't believe it. I never pictured her in the journalism field let alone a magazine."

Bulma chuckled, "Agreed. But I think it definitely suits her a way-" Bulma took another sip of her tea. "How is the rest of them? I haven't really kept up with anything to be honest, last I heard that Yamacha is a cop here in the area, I am not sure I have never really ran into him to be able to confirm. Um, I think Lyonnia is a Hooters Manager over on Veterans, I have never eaten there so I don't know." ChiChi tapped on her chin, "I never heard about Launch or Akiko, I know they are definitely not here. Tien is in Florida, he owns a company that he bought out and redesigned, I think him and another college friend turned into Steelride Resorts-"

"Oh wow, that is really interesting. My parents have called them to coordinator a trip to the Bahamas-"

"Yeah I think their net worth each is around quarter of a billion right now, they a building it up since they took over."

"I think it is funny though that Lyo is only a Hooters Manager, not saying that that is a bad job, I love their wings, but I always thought she was planning on being an actress of something-"

ChiChi shrugged, "She reached out to Vegeta a few summers back, she had really fallen into some bad shit and needed some help. Dr. Ouji really helped out as he always has and really the Hooters gig kind of turned out to something amazing for her. But it is ironic."

Bulma cringed, thinking that Lyo and Vegeta were still friends, possibly closer than friends made chills run down her back, "Think they are-"

She shook her head, "No she is married to some guy, I think he is a teacher of Satan High School?" She tapped on her chin again, attempting to think a bit, "Yeah I am pretty sure he is some gentlemen who moved here from Virginia. And then Brolly I heard was a Franchise Owner for a delicious place, the Tavern Bar and Grill – we will have to go soon. I am thinking about once the others are in town we can g maybe?"

"Others?"

ChiChi smiled, "Yes, Goku and I decided to re-new our vows, we didn't get married in a real wedding, so I asked my parents if they would object to having a party. We sent out the invites, I was going to tell you today about it. I want you and Juu to be my bridesmaids. We are doing this really fast, but still doing the whole gown thing out on the beach-"

"When?"

"Next month, the fifth of April."

Bulma grinned and leaned onto the table, laying her chin in her palms, "This is going to be a lot of fun."

"Good I am glad you are on board with this."

"So how is Gohan? School?"

"Well he is enrolled in the Magnet School over on Whittlesey, do you remember Britley Memorial Elementary School?"

Bulma smiled and nodded, "Of course, I went there for maybe three grade levels until dad wanted me to go to a public school with Vegeta. I think they didn't like the programs at the time, or maybe they realized he was doing just as well as I was-"

"Yeah we weren't going to have him go there, I figured our public school was just as good as the next, but in Kindergarten, they had some books set aside and he was reading The Hobbit and they asked him if he knew what he was reading and was able to comprehend the whole story. I was blown away. The school was willing to fund his tuition and he seems to be enjoying classes over there."

"Well that is good-"

"He really enjoys going to the Dojo though too, his father and Vegeta teach him all the moves before they even teach the class so he is always a step ahead. He really enjoys that too. He is so smart and so sweet."

"I can't wait to see him again-" Bulma looked at the clock. It was well past twelve. Piercing her lips, she texted her mom, I will be leaving shortly to head to the hospital, see you in a bit? She looked back at ChiChi and smiled, "I think I need to head out, mom is waiting I haven't seen my dad yet."

"I understand," ChiChi smiled brightly. "You need to see him, I think it will be good for you and him, especially him. I saw him last week every day while Goku was at work and Gohan was in school. He was doing a lot better on Friday. Plus you are home now-for good-"

"Yes for good, I promise," Bulma chuckled.

"So we have time to catch up. Oh Bulma it is so good to see you, to see you smile and just to see you."

"It is good to be back," Standing up, ChiChi walked Bulma to the door. "I love you, and I will text you later. We have a lot to plan on now right!"

ChiChi giggled, "Yes, I need help!"

"That is what me and Juu are here for." Grabbing another quick hug and a kiss on the cheek, Bulma pulled her keys out of her purse and walked to her car. Quickly starting ad backing out of the driveway, she glared one more time at the waving friend before driving off.

"I see you took my advise-"

Bulma was started, she turned around to see Chris standing behind her. She had been waiting in line at the Organic Deli Café that he had first recommended her to. She smiled and looked up at him, "Well tomorrow classes start and I figured after unpacking everything then going grocery shopping, I was in no mood to cook so I thought I would give a try."

"You will not be disappointed," He smirked again. Bulma turned around quickly and breathed in. She heard him clear his throat, closing her eyes, she re-opened them and turned back around with a smile, "I was wondering if I could join you for dinner maybe?"

Bulma nodded and frowned a little, she let out a heavy sigh, "Just so you know I am not-"

Chris chuckled, "Don't worry I am not asking to-"

Her mouth did a big O symbol realizing her mistake, "I am sorry, I didn't mean to assume that I just recently got out of something really serious and just a little distracted."

He nodded with a chuckle, "Understandable. I just figured you might need a chum around being from the States and all."

She nodded, "I could really use a friend that is for sure."

Chris held out his hand, "Friends?"

Bulma shook his hand and smiled, "Friends."

Bulma pulled into the hospital parking lot, parking her car she looked around. Checking her phone, her mother texted her the room number. She exited her car and quickly walked to the front desk, she was greeted by a chipper woman, blonde, obviously a decently young lady, probably a little younger than Bulma. She smiled at her.

"Hello, how may I help you today?"

"Ah yes, I am here to see Dr. Briefs? Room 628B."

"Yes ma'am, go down this hallway and to the left should be the first room on your right."

Bulma nodded, "Thank you so much." Bulma turned and started down the hallway. Once she reached the door, she knocked quietly and heard her mother. She smiled and walked in.

"Hi there sweetie," Her mother greeted her and kissed her forehead. Bulma followed her around the curtain, Bunny moved them aside, "Look baby who is here to see us finally-"

"Oh hi there baby girl-" Dr. Briefs smiled faintly at Bulma. She frowned as she approached her fathers' bed. She leaned in and gave him a hug, breathing in his smell as she barred her face in his neck. There was a cast on her father's left leg and a brace on his right arm as well as a neck brace. He chuckled as he heard some sniffs, "Oh don't be like that baby girl, I am fine-"

"Daddy," Bulma stood up, sitting on the edge of her fathers bed, she wiped the tears. "Mom told me you might be able to leave soon-"

"Yes I will be leaving Wednesday afternoon, Trevor is running late getting into town and he and his wife will be here to pick me up. I am very excited to get home and see everyone."

"So I saw ChiChi today-"

"Oh that is wonderful darling, have you heard about Goku's Dojo. It is so popular and that little boy of theirs has really grown up so fast."

Bulma smiled and nodded, "Yeah it was definitely great to see her, they are planning a wedding which once Juu gets in town we are going to start planning."

"Yes a wedding would be magical," Bunny clapped her hands and giggled. "We need a little bit of joy in this town!"

"I agree, we have offered our help to them with the wedding, I believe Bunny is catering-"

Bulma smiled and looked at her mother who was still smiling, "It will be amazing, I am very excited." Bunny looked around and saw someone, she held her finger up, "Doctor Bennett, one second please, Honey I will be right back." Bending over she kissed her husband on the forehead, rubbing Bulma's hand and stepped out of the room.

Bulma looked at her father and smiled faintly again, fiddling with the bed sheet through her fingers, she went to say something and then changed her thought. Dr. Briefs caught this and frowned, "You remember when you were a little girl, we made a promise to never hide secrets," Bulma nodded. "Tell me what's on your mind? Being back?"

"The accident. I mean it really happened so fast I don't understand how it could have happened-"

Dr. Briefs shrugged his shoulders, "It was an honest mistake-"

"Yeah but dad, planes don't just do that-"

Piercing his lips, "Yes they do Bulma. It was a malfunction. Unfortunately there were causalities. I know that is not what you want to hear, but it is the truth. Did your mother not tell you about everything?" Bulma pushed herself on the bed further and crossed one of her legs underneath her, holding on to her lower leg. She looked at her father again and shook her head. He smiled, "Well from what I was told by the engineers who inspected the accident, the engine over heated, it was like something was dried up in the fan. It was something that was checked off, but it just overheated, it was something that very rarely happens. By the time it was noticed we had already lifted and they tried to bring the plane down." Dr. Briefs coughed a little, rubbing his eyes a little he wiped the tears away, "I remember seeing Vegeta Sr. next to me. When I came to here in the hospital they told me that he was dead on arrival at the hospital as well as two other board members, remember Charles and Jackson-" Bulma nodded. "Bunny told me their funerals were Thursday, she went to pay our respects. And our pilot, he survived however he is now paralyzed."

Bulma's eyes were a little watery listening to her father, she sniffed her nose a little, rubbing her thumb over her eyes she leaned onto her hand and looked at her father, "I am sorry daddy-"

"Oh don't be, things happen," Dr. Briefs grabbed and held Bulma's hand. He smiled, "I am just more upset that I lost my friend in all of this-" Dr. Briefs choked on his words. Swallowing hard they looked over to see Bunny walked back into the room. He cleared his throat, "So where did you run off to?"

"Well great news, we will definitely be getting discharged tomorrow afternoon." Bunny clapped her hands together and smiled.

Bulma looked at the front of the class and breathed in. the first week of college in Oxford was completed. Mentally patting herself on the back she looked around, everyone had been gone for a least the past thirty minutes, this including the professor. The past week had been so busy she had almost forgot about home. Even Chris's smirk was becoming less and less of a reminder to Bulma of Vegeta.

She frowned, she had decided it was completely different from Vegeta's smirk.

As a matter of fact, Chris was completely different than Vegeta in so many ways. She had to think this way because if she didn't she would be able to survive college. Vegeta was her rock, her stone – her everything. She had left him behind and her home. She couldn't have reminders of him. So she decided after having her fifth meal with Chris and his friends that she needed to find the differences and quickly.

Clearing her throat, she packed up her things and walked out of the room and down the hall. Oxford had been a huge difference than what she was used to. Columbia was a large campus as well, but something was different about Oxford. The buildings just had a different structure, a different air about them. Walking the paths, she headed to her living quad.

Smiling, she realized that Chris, Cindy, and Brad were handing around the fountain. This was something they did on most evenings after classes. The other day they were gathered around studying for a homework assignment, and then yesterday they were debating on biblical studies verses the historical findings. Bulma smiled, it was definitely a large debate in which they wanted Bulma to settle.

Unfortunately Bulma had to let them know History was not her best subject and made no comments to settle their dispute.

Cindy noticed Bulma first, holding her arm up and waving towards her with a huge grin on her face, "Bulma, come here!"

Bulma walked over to the group and leaned against the wall, "Yes?"

"I was thinking-" Cindy was cut off.

"This can't be good," Brad chuckled.

Cindy rolled her eyes, "Bollocks- if you fancy I was going to suggest a roundabout on town this weekend?"

Bulma had then realized this entire week, she had barely left the quad or the campus area since school started. The furthest she had gone was to Friars Entry and that was just for the deli and then back to the apartment. She pierced her lips together, "I would really like that I think."

"Splendid-better be tip top, and full of beans tomorrow!"

Bulma chuckled, she nodded in response, "Well I am going to head up to get ready for bed, just give me a knock in the afternoon sometime when you are ready to head out."

Cindy nodded, "Of course."

Bulma waved and walked inside towards the elevator. She entered and noticed Chris joined her. He smiled down at her and titled his head, "So you been enjoying your week?" She nodded as he leaned again the elevator wall, "You don't talk too much do you?"

"I don't-" Bulma chewed on the inside of her cheek.

Chris pointed and smirked, "I realized too that when you are nervous or thinking about something, you seem to be chewing on your cheek."

Bulma chuckled, "Yeah it is a bad habit that I do a lot." The elevator stopped and they headed towards the rooms. After the week together, Bulma had found out that Cindy and Brad were down the hallway the other side and Chris was the door across from her own. He would normally walk her to her room as his was right there. Leaning against the door, she unlocked the door and half opened it. She leaned on the handle and looked back at Chris, "I have never really been much of a talker. Even in High School, this one girl, who mind you was a complete bitch-" Chris wide eyed stared then followed with a chuckle, "Well she would call me a bookworm or tell me that I was a social reject."

"And you were friends with her?"

She shrugged her shoulders, "Not really. She was a friend of the circle of people I associated with. There were moments when you could assume she was a friend but I liked to think of her as a nemesis maybe-"

At this point, Chris was laughing hysterically. Crossing his arms he leaned against the wall, "That is an interesting theory."

"Well it was interesting to say the least."

"I think this is the most conversation I have gotten out of you."

"No that isn't true, we talk a lot at the Café when we ate together-"

"Yeah but sometimes I think you are somewhere else, we are kind of curious about you."

"I promise I am not that interesting or worth finding out things about."

Chris shrugged his shoulders, he approached Bulma, she flinched slightly, his hand moved towards her and pushed a strand of hair behind her ear and smiled. Backing away he unlocked his room door, "Sorry-"

"It's okay-Thank you."

"See you tomorrow."

"Yep-" Bulma nodded and walked into her room. Closing the door quietly, she pressed her hands against the door. Taking a deep breath, she placed her forehead against the door. She heard Chris's door close, turning around she slide to the ground against her front door.

Pulling her phone out, she looked at who was calling JUU – Bulma smiled. This was exactly who she needed. "Hello-Hey Juu. Yeah I miss you too. How are things? That is good…" Bulma chuckled as she listened to her friend. "Yeah I am having fun, things are definitely different here. Not like home…"

Bulma finally got back to her parent's house. It was a little past five in the evening, her mother was still at the hospital with her father. Her mother would be home a little later in the evening, but Bulma was exhausted and was ready to get back home.

She pulled into the driveway and into the garage. Sitting in her driver seat for a second, she turned it off and closed the garage door. Opening the side door, she walked into the house and reset the alarm. Placing her purse on the counter she rummaged through the kitchen. She smiled, her mother knew Bulma's favorite wines. In the fridge, her mother had placed a new bottle of Saracco Moscato d'Asti with a note. Enjoy Sweetie – freshly toasted just for you.

Smiling, she grabbed the bottle and placed it on the counter followed by grabbing a decently sized white wine glass. "Here goes to not taking my medicine today-" Bulma chuckled as she continued to open the bottle. It had dawned on her that her mood today was normal. She wasn't experiencing headaches, and her thoughts were negative. She was generally calm today. Wine would make for a delicious treat.

Taking the first sip, she closed her eyes and took another sip. Savoring the taste. It was delicious.

Bulma looked at her phone as it started to vibrate JUU, she grinned. Answering the phone after taking another sip, "Hello? Hey Juu, I have been waiting for you to call-no I went to visit Chi this morning. Well she said you would be here tomorrow I think? I am really excited-" Bulma heard the doorbell, "Hold on one second Juu," Bulma moved the phone from her ear to her chest and walked to the front door. She looked through the peep hole and laughed. She sung the door open and flew out the door and into Juu's arms, "When did you get here?"

Bulma inhaled Juu's scent, it had been a while since she had seen her, "I just got in this afternoon. I went to see Chi first."

She stepped away and held Juu by the upper arms, she glanced down at her again and hugged her again, "I have missed you so much."

"I have missed you more."

"Ah please come in, I just opened a bottle of wine, do you want some?"

"Of course-"

Bulma led her into the house and they walked into the kitchen. Bulma poured a glass for Juu and handed it to her. She watched her take a seat at the stool and took a sip of the wine. Bulma smiled and leaned against the counter and took another sip of her own wine, "I can't believe you are hear already."

"I can't believe it either."

"Chi was telling me about Seventeen Magazine-"

"Yeah I have been editor for about a year and half now, which is probably rare that I was even given the position but when I was interning for those few years, the previous chief really took me under her wing while I was a secretary and I don't know. Made a few idea calls, helped with some redesigning. Come to find out last year was her last year, she was retiring from Seventeen and moving on to a magazine in France. So I was recommended and now, I live here in our home town in a fabulous condo estate over on main strip, travel, and I enjoy my job it is great."

"You had texted me the other week, where were you this time?"

"We were in Japan, we are doing this Harajuku Fashion rollout and it is going to be amazing."

Bulma smiled and took another sip of her wine, "It sounds like a lot of fun."

"Oh Bulma it really is. I will bring you by the office, are you going to be looking for a place of your own soon?"

She shrugged her shoulders, "I know my mom had mentioned it the other day, I don't know yet. I know I need to start looking and I had every plan to, but then the accident and coming home with the circumstances I did, it kind of through everything out of wrack for me."

"Yeah that is understandable."

"So, what are your plans for the rest of the evening?"

"Well, my plans were to stalk you for the rest of the evening," Juu reached into her suitcase and pulled out three DVDs. "I was thinking maybe a movie night?"

Bulma grinned, "I think that sounds great."

Bulma stretched, she looked at her clock and then checked her phone. Cindy had texted about ten minutes prior about being ready in the next hour to go out. Bulma put her arms behind her head and stared at the ceiling for a bit. Biting on her lip for a bit, she finally took a deep breath and stood out of her bed and walked to the bathroom. Quickly taking a shower, brushed her teeth, dried her hair and straightened it.

Her hair had definitely gotten longer since she graduated. It was almost a little below her middle back. Twisting her hair into a side bun and pinned it back. Walking into the bedroom she quickly got into a one piece dress, blue jean color, the sleeves barely covered her upper arms and hung on her shoulders. She buckled the tin pink leather belt and slipped into some pink slip on shoes.

Satisfied with her appearance, she grabbed her purse and phone and opened the door. She grinned, Cindy was in mid knock and smiled, "Morning sunshine."

"Morning Cindy," Bulma stepped out of the room and closed her door. Cindy curled her arm around Bulma's and they started down the hallway.

"Brad and Chris are going to join us in about an hour, they had something to take care of," Bulma nodded. Cindy pushed the ground level buttons and looked at Bulma, "Something on your mind?"

"Well I was thinking, is there a shop we can go to? I want to get a haircut."

She nodded, "Of course, we can stop there first."

Cindy held onto Bulma's arm, leading the way down the alley they arrived at a corner salon named Gianni Paolo. They walked in and were greeted.

"Hello, what might we assist you with today?"

Bulma tapped on the counter, "Yes, I want to get a haircut."

"Of course, wait for just a moment and Lesa will be right with you."

Bulma stood there for maybe a few minutes until a lady walked over towards her, greeted her as Lesa and then walked her over to a chair. She sat down in the chair while Lesa placed a cover over her chest. She rubbed her shoulders and smiled at Bulma, "So, what am I going to do today for you?"

Bulma watched as she undid the bun of hair, she felt her fingers running through it. She grinned, "I need a change-something drastic."

"Do you trust me then?" Lesa smiled, Bulma nodded in response.

Bulma sat in that chair, not looking in the mirror for almost an hour in a half. Her hair was dyed then cut. A lot was cut off because she could feel the weight being gone. Once she felt Lesa turn her around, she grinned, "What do you think?"

Bulma smiled, looking at herself in the mirror she put her fingers through it. Her hair was completely gone, she had a side-swept short hairstyle covering almost her entire forehead that reached right below her right ear, some strands falling over her eyebrows and eyes. The other side was closely cropped to her skull and this went throughout the back with her neck exposed. (Think Frankie Sandford, maybe even Tina Majorino in Veronica Mars Movie as Mac, or DEV in the video of Backseat Newboyz ft. The Cataracs and DEV if you can't quite picture this)Her hair was dyed a light lavender.

"This looks amazing. Exactly what I needed."

"Splendid."

Bulma walked out to the entrance, she saw Brad and Chris standing with Cindy, Cindy noticed first and whistled. "That looks amazing-"

Bulma nodded, "Thank you."

Chris walked towards her as she paid the cashier, handing her a coffee, "We stopped at Costa on our way here, it is a Mocha Cortado."

She took a sip and smiled, "This is delicious."

"Thought you would like that," Chris chuckled.

They walked over to Brad and Cindy, "I must say Bulma I love the haircut-"

"Yeah I really like it as well, I really just wanted something different."

"It suits you," Cindy commented, taking a sip of her own mocha she let out a sigh, "Now on to our tour. You are in for a real treat."

Bulma rubbed her eyes, she had been thinking about Vegeta again. Dreaming about her next door neighbor, long lost lover was becoming a very bad habit. Something she thought would stop when she I don't know, grew up and moved on. She chuckled to herself.

She looked at the couch beside her, Juu had fallen asleep, looking around her mother must have come home, the wine glasses and bottle were gone and they had both been covered. She smiled, it was good to be home.

Standing up, she grabbed her phone. Biting her lip, she was a little hesitant. Walking into the kitchen, she grabbed a glass and got some water. Taking a sip she took another deep sigh and answered her phone, "Morning to you. Ha, no it is still evening for me. Yeah I was just really busy last night and really all day-Yeah I saw my dad, it was good. Okay that sounds good, I understand. Well I mean I am going to be looking for a more permanent location in a couple days after the funeral," Clearing her throat, she listened to the other person talk. Chugging the rest of her water, she sighed, "No I am just tired. It has been a long day and tomorrow will be another. That is fine, yeah I wanted to tell you about it, I know I texted you earlier. My friend is getting married, well really renewing their vows and if everything is settled by then-Yeah it is April fifth, I would like for you to come visit then. Yeah you too-Okay, I will talk to you later. Bye."

Bulma looked at her phone and then crossed her arms. Looking out the kitchen window she noticed Rita was awake and appeared to be cleaning. Piercing her lips she decided to take an adventure. Setting down her phone, she snuck out the back door and strode over to her neighbor's house. Tapping on the glass sliding door, she smiled at Rita.

She walked in a hurry to the door and smiled at Bulma, "Well my dear I must say you are still as beautiful as ever."

Bulma giggled, "I highly doubt that."

Rita shook her head, she sighed and grabbed Bulma into a hug. "I mean it you look amazing sweetie. Why don't you come in-" She noticed Bulma look inside the house for a second and a sort of panic on her face, Rita smiled faintly, "He isn't here still. Don't worry he isn't going to be coming into town early, he had some last minute things to take care of before he came here." Bulma nodded and followed Rita into the kitchen. "So how are you sweetie?"

"I am good. Got in yesterday, well I guess now it would be considered the day before yesterday. But it is good to be home that is for sure."

"Your mother was telling me about your graduation, I know they were able to attend the ceremony, your degrees-I am sure your father is so proud."

Bulma shrugged her shoulders, "Dad was more pleased about the degree in Bio Chemistry and Genetic Assembly, even supported my minor in Biomedical Engineering-"

"Yes I had heard you basically completed all of that, it is amazing I tell you."

"Well the minor in Biomedical Engineer turned into another major for my doctorate, and then dad didn't understand why I took classed and completed an associates in Computer Engineering. I probably could have been home a year or so sooner if I hadn't."

"Ah don't worry about it, you were always one to not pass up the chance to learn something new." Rita smiled. "I know Vegeta Sr. was proud when he heard about your schooling. We both agreed you really made something out of your life and I know your parents are just delighted."

Bulma smiled, "How are you with everything-"

Rita smiled, breathing in a heavy sigh, "I am doing a little better."

"That's good-"

"Vegeta is good too you know-" Rita rubbed Bulma's arm and smiled. Bulma nodded, "I am sure he will be excited to see you even though he isn't much for words."
She shrugged her shoulders, "I don't know, but I suppose we will find out." Bulma hugged Rita one more tome and walked towards the back door, sliding it open, "It was good to see you, I know mom has already told you if you needed anything we are here for you, but I wanted to come see you myself. You were like a second mother to me-"

Rita grinned and nodded, "Thank you sweetie."

Bulma walked back to her house and looked into the living room. Juu was still asleep on the couch. Looking at her phone again she smiled, setting it back on the table, she lifted her legs up and turned the television back on. Flipping through the channels she found herself on the news.

"You should probably watch what you say about the dead-"

"I still believe that karma was due, you have a company that is based solely on technology, it pollutes are brains our world and the CEO was killed in a freak accident from technology-"

"I thought hippies were supposed to be calm and collective, not mentally disturbed."

"I am not mentally disturbed, I am simply stating a fact-"

"Guys we are getting off track-"

"Yes as I was going to state priori, Ouji Industries is a company is a huge technology company, because Vegeta Sr. passed, they announced a release for a database computer program that would change the face of security-I don't know about you but ever since we progressed into the millennium we have been wanting to watch, our privacy is being taken away little by little-"

"That is not what it is in place to do-"

"No? They are associated with Taji in Japan, they consulted their own master program that functions all of their security cameras, they are sectioned off, there is no privacy-"

"Their crime rate is below any other country in the world-"

"Besides the point-"

"No it is preciously the point, technology verses safety? Your debate is completely void of any reason that would even-"

"They have been all over this since he was killed, your father's advisers have been trying to get them to stop running the story-"

"Well dad had told me about the program they were developing, I think it is amazing but the debates they run on this is just completely pointless."

"Agreed," Bunny nodded. "Couldn't sleep?"

Bulma shrugged, "Ah, I saw Rita was up and thought I would go talk to her."

"I bet she really enjoyed that."

"What is everyone doing awake," Juu stretched and yawned. She looked over at Bunny and Bulma and smiled.

"Couldn't sleep anymore," Bulma smiled. "Want to grab some breakfast?"

"It is like, three in the morning?"

"So?" Juu chuckled and sat up and started to put her shoes on. "See I knew you would be on board. Let's grab some breakfast."

Disclaimer: I do not own DBZ

I am not the best when it comes to my UK slang and phrases – But I definitely tried my best. Here are some words I used that I figured I would put the definitions or the places I used to help the story go along. If by any chance I used something incorrectly, please feel free to correct me and I will more than happy to change it! I know only a little bit about the Oxford area as it was a college I was in a possibility of attending at one point of my life and going overseas is a huge dream of mine. So if you are from the UK or anywhere overseas and if I ever use anything incorrectly, as said previously, please feel more than happy to correct me.

Words/Phrases:

Lift- Elevator

Mate-Friend/Chum

Bollocks-Rubbish (has several meanings as well)

Fancy-Desire

Full of Beans-Loads of energy

Locations:

Organic Deli Café, Restaurants & Wholefoods Store – 24 Friars Entry, Oxford OX1 2DB, United Kingdom

Gianni Paolo – 18 S Parade

Costa-Popular UK Coffee Shop

Author's Note: Thank you everyone who reviewed on the last chapter. I know that there are some questions in reference to what is going on and where this is going. I promise I will deliver you to the present very soon! Firstly though, I wanted to apologize again for my delay.

This past year has been a big struggle for me (not in a bad way I promise). I have recently moved to a different department within my company and my job status is more demanding than I had originally wanted to take on. On top of that, I have recently been dabbling in photography. Trying my own business has definitely taken a huge priority. Also, my husband has recently decided to become a streamer, I know I have said it before, but my husband and I are huge gamers. I am currently supporting his decision to get involved with streaming. Things have been challenging, which if anyone has ever streamed or gotten involved with the YouTube crowd it is a rough start. I manage his social networking and help build both our dreams into a reality. It is a lot of work!

So that is my personal reasons why it took so long to update. Second reason is that after I posted the last chapter, Chapter Twenty Four – I had actual started the next one that same week. As I typed it, I really developed massive writer's block. I had no idea where I was going to go and as I typed the graduation I literally despised it more and more. I love this story, but that chapter really brought me down into a "where do I go from here, this is stupid – my readers will not like this". The shortness of the chapter should really indicate my hatred for it. The other day I went back and started reading my story, not only did I see more things that I wanted to revise, but I started to develop a new story line. I will have you know I had an entirely different plan, I think I would have been more drama but recently I started talking to other women who are trying to get pregnant. On top of that, I re-watched Grey's Anatomy and could not stop. There was an episode that really stuck with me, one that really hit home. All of a sudden I really started completing my ideas for the rest of the story. Chapter Twenty Six really turned out the way I had wanted to. I really hope everyone enjoys where this story ends up, I promise I will not let you down. I do plan on more of Bulma's POV, but Vegeta will come back into play soon. Because I chose to rewrite and not do the college and only do flashbacks, I decided to present things a little differently.

Once again, I truly hope everyone forgives me. I am mainly going to focus on this story until it has been completed. I hope to complete soon and revise the entire story as well. Please, any feedback is always wanted! Stay tuned and more to come.