Hi everyone! Did you miss me? Yeah, it's been a while, but totally not my fault! Real life just got to be a bit overwhelming…so yeah I had to take a bit of time off. Also, my muse left me hanging, but it's back! I even made an outline to keep me in check. My goal is to finish this story, and finish this story I'm going to do! With all the bullshit going on in the world right now, writing has brought me a bit of joy. I hope this brings a little smile to your face as it's done mine!

Trunks looked around their shared apartment in slack-jawed disbelief as he watched his blonde run back and forth, bringing out presents from Dende-knows- where and stuffing them in different bags. He glanced down at his respectable one suitcase and started feeling sorely underprepared. This was going to cost him a fortune to check all of these bags…

"Uh…Usa, how are we going to fit all of these bags on the flight?"

Usagi stopped flittering back and forth to blink her clear blue eyes in confusion at her lavender-haired beau. "Trunks, we're not flying, we're driving!"

It was Trunks' turn to blink in confusion. "But…didn't you say it was 12 hours away?"

Usa nodded before answering, "It is, but there's no way we'll be able to fly with all this stuff!" At Trunks' bewildered expression, Usagi asked, "Didn't I tell you we'd be driving?" At Trunks' cocked eyebrow and blank stare, Usa smiled sheepishly. "Heheh, must've slipped my mind."

"Usa," Trunks began slowly, "wouldn't it be easier to fly and have all this stuff shipped?" To be honest, he did not want to drive 12 fucking hours, especially because he'd be doing all of the driving. He loved his blonde, but he absolutely loathed her behind the wheel. It wasn't that she was a terrible driver, in fact, she was a very, very good behind the wheel. It was just…she got so distracted! At every red light, she stopped to admire the sky…or the trees….or birds and then pull over to continue her admiration. Or, if it was raining, she'd become entranced by the rain hitting the pavement… or grass… or trees... or, well, you get the idea. Trunks loved how she could stop and enjoy the little things, but not when they were driving a distance! He wanted to get there before Christmas, not after Valentine's Day.

"No, it would not be easier! What if my stuff breaks? Or worse, the airline loses it?" Usa said, frowning.

"That's what insurance is for, love."

Usagi's frown deepened. "But…wouldn't it be super expensive to travel with all of these bags? Plus, with just me and you, it'll be hard to navigate through the airport with all this stuff." Usagi glanced around at their living room floor that was covered by all of her things and sighed. Maybe she'd gone a bit overboard? But she had to get all of her friends a super cute kimono…and her dad that really cool watch…and her brother the latest gaming console…oh, and Makoto was going to just love her-

"I'm sure we could manage at the airport," Trunks said, cutting off her train of thought while contemplatively looking around their covered living room. There had to be a way to condense everything. Trunks glanced at Usagi and found her glaring at him. "What?"

"Trunks, we are not flying," she said emphatically, her hands going to her petite hips. "There's absolutely no way we could get a flight out this late and get there by Christmas!"

"We definitely can! I have connections with every airline! Plus, mom has a private jet we could use as well" Trunks exclaimed in exasperation. He was not driving 12 fucking hours, thank you very much.

Usagi eyed Trunks before fixing her face into a -oh no! No, no, no, no, no no no! She knows he hates it when she pouts! Her big, beautiful eyes became glossy with unshed tears as her bottom lip jutted out ever so slightly. This look has broken Trunks on many an occasion.

"Usa, don't give me that look," he protested weekly, which caused her lip to poke out a bit more. Trunks sighed and looked away. Damnit, she did not play fair. Trunks sighed. "Why do you want us to drive anyway?"

"Because it'll be fun! It's our first road-trip together! Think of it as our first adventure together! We'll take pictures and document everything!" Usa said, pleading her case. Trunks thought about it. True, it would be their first time traveling a distance together so it might be nice.

Usagi clumsily made her way through the obstacle course that was now their living room, Trunks catching her as she literally stumbled into his arms. She smiled, wrapping her slender arms around his neck. "Come on, Trunks! It'll be fun! Just the two of us, spending time together on our first road trip! It'll be a story to tell our kids someday-" Trunks smiled at that, "-when they complain how we drive everywhere instead of flying."

Trunks laughed, remembering his childhood and how his own mother forced him in cars when he could fly. "I already have my speech ready," he said, wrapping his arms around the blonde's waist, "Back in my day, we had to drive 12 hours to visit you grandparents who didn't even know I existed!"

The blue-eyed woman laughed. "Actually, I called mom earlier and told her you'd be coming."

"And your father?"

Usagi laughed nervously before shrugging. "Mom said she'd talk to him…?"

Trunks shook his head. "So, basically, I'm walking into hostile territory?"

"But you're a warrior! You thrive on the thrill of a fight!"

"Yes, when I can whoop my opponent's ass without worrying about sleeping on the couch for the rest of my life!" It's not like Trunks wanted to fight Usa's dad. Besides, that would make for an extremely awkward holiday.

Not to mention he actually enjoyed his sleeping arrangements with his girlfriend, thank you very much.

"Should I plan to stay at a hotel?"

"What? No! Mom said she'll prepare the guestroom for you!" At Trunks' uncertain look, Usagi continued, "Everything will be fine! Mom will take care of Dad! There'll be nothing to worry about!"

Trunks sighed. He had a feeling he'd have everything to worry about.

"Please, baby? It'll be fun!"

Trunks sighed before resting his head against hers, already mentally resigning himself to his fate. "If I agree, there'll have to be some rules." When his blonde looked at him expectantly, he continued. "We leave early-"

"How early?" She interrupted. College or not, Usagi Tsukino was not a morning person, and never will be.

"Four."

The blond scrunched her face in response. "Eight sounds better."

"That's too late. I want to bypass as much traffic as possible."

Usagi frowned and whined, "But that's too early! I probably won't get done packing until after midnight, even with your help!"

"4am, or no deal," Trunks said with finality. If he had to suffer a bit, then she'll have to as well. "Besides, you can sleep in the car."

"…Fine," she said after a moment.

"Rule number two, we're not stopping for you to admire the scenery. We drive until we need a bathroom break, or we're hungry."

Usagi frowned. "But…but it's supposed to be a very scenic drive!" Trunks just stared at her, so she finally huffed, "Ugh, fine!" She'll just have to find a rest stop by a meadow…

"Last rule; we're not stopping at every rest stop to stretch."

Usagi huffed. Fine, she'll look at the map tonight on the internet and try to find the best ones then.

"Fine, anymore requests?"

"Just one," he said. At his lover's slightly irritated expression, he smirked before bending to capture her lips in a passionate kiss.

If he was stuck driving for twelve fucking hours, they were going to enjoy their time beforehand.

Trunks glared at the cars in front of him in annoyance, one hand on the steering wheel and the other holding Usagi's hand.

He could not believe he agreed to drive for twelve fucking hours. He glanced down at his phone GPS before growling.

With the current traffic, it was now eighteen fucking hours.

Why had he agreed to this again?

Instead of arriving by 4pm, they were now due to arrive 10pm. It was only noon.

He glanced out the side of his eyes at his girlfriend who had just woke and was looking every bit of rest personified. She was currently taking in her surroundings, smiling as the winter sun kissed her skin beautifully. Feeling his eyes on her, she glanced over and smiled happily. Trunks glared harder before turning his eyes back to the road.

"Sheesh, Trunks, stop being such a grumpy pants!"

He was not going to dignify that with a response. His pants were most certainly not grumpy, thank you very much.

Usagi giggled at him. "Come on! Look at how beautiful everything is!" They were traveling over a bridge and, as if to emphasize her point, the sun beautifully reflected over the clear blue water.

Trunks was not impressed.

Usagi glanced at him briefly before turning back to the road. There was an exit with food approaching and she was getting a bit hungry.

"Babe, are you hungry?"

"Hn."

Usagi rolled her eyes. "Okay, Vegeta-" Trunks glared harder, if possible "-pull over at the next rest station! I'll treat!"

Trunks said nothing but did as told.

They decided on a little restaurant near the entrance to the highway that offered a beautiful view of the waterfront. Usagi sighed in contentment as she glanced out the window after being seated.

"Wow, everything looks delicious!" Usagi said out loud to no response, not that she expected one. After being together for two years, she pretty much knew his moods. She also knew he didn't mean any harm. "I'm so happy we're doing this," she said, placing her hand on top of his that was laying on the table.

Trunks glanced up from the menu and met the deep blue eyes staring at him. His blonde lover was genuinely smiling at him, the light in her eyes unmistakable. She was making it hard for him to stay annoyed. He squeezed her hand lightly before intertwining their fingers together.

Usagi smiled as she saw the iciness melt away a bit and turned back to the menu. If his mood was better, maybe she could convince him to take a picture by the waterfront.

Several pictures by the waterfront and a helluva lot of traffic later saw our favorite couple almost to their destination. Usagi offered to take over driving so Trunks could rest a bit but he declined; he wanted to arrive this year after all.

They talked about any and everything and seeing how happy taking this trip truly made his blonde-haired princess, Trunks' mood lightened considerably. After hearing her go on and on about how excited she was to see her family, she switched topics to her friends.

"Oh, and you'll love the girls! They're so excited to meet you! Ami's really smart like you, and you guys can talk about smart things-" Trunks laughed lightly. He knew that was Usa's way of calling him a nerd.

"Oh, and Makoto cooks so well! I still call her for a few pointers when I cook for you. You'll love her food!"

Trunks couldn't wait to taste it Makoto's food,

"And Minako's style is unparalleled! Maybe we'll have time for a shopping trip!"

Trunks was certainly not looking forward to shopping,

"Oh, and Rei is really sweet, even though she can be a bit of a hot-head. She's a miko and can be a bit scary sometimes, but totally sweet none-the-less!"

Trunks blinked. That last one didn't make any sense,

"I think Haruka, Michiru, and Setsuna plan to stop by as well! They were out of town, but they found out I was bringing you home and quickly rearranged their plans!"

Great, more people Trunks had to fend off.

"And Mamoru just finished up his Residency at med school! I hope you guys can get along, he's really a sweet guy once you get to know him."

Trunks rolled his eyes. Personally, he didn't want to get to know a guy who threw roses in a fight.

"I saw that eye-roll! Just give him a chance! You both may have things in common."

Trunks snorted. He doubted that.

Usagi was about to respond but got distracted when she saw 'Welcome to Juban.' Upon passing the sign, the young blonde was literally bouncing in her seat.

"Trunks! We're here! Ohmigosh, ohmigosh, ohmigosh! I'm so excited!"

Trunks laughed good-naturedly. "Really? I couldn't tell…"

Usagi ignored the sarcastic reply. "I haven't been home in forever! Ah! I'm so excited to see everyone! I'm so excited for you to meet everyone!"

"I'm happy that you're so excited. We'll have to make more trips here for you."

Usagi glanced at her lavender-haired prince before leaning over to kiss him on the cheek, eyes shining with unshed tears. "I'm so happy you're here with me Trunks. You honestly have no idea how happy I am for you to finally meet my family and friends."

Trunks glanced at his love before intertwining their hands together. He brought her small hands to his lips, placing a soft kiss on the appendage.

He may not know exactly how she felt, but it didn't matter.

He'd do anything to make his princess happy.

It was a little before midnight when the couple finally arrived to Usagi's childhood home. Usagi was so happy to see her family, she jumped out with a squeal before Trunks could fully bring the car to a stop. Trunks shook his head and laughed as he got out, leaning against the car with his arms crossed.

Usagi's mom opened the door before the blonde could and they embraced each other. Even with his enhanced hearing, Trunks couldn't make out the excited chatter between mother and daughter. Trunks watched as teenaged boy made his way out and, upon seeing him, was engulfed in a hug by Usa. 'Ah, this must be Shingo,' Trunks thought as he watched the scene with a small smile. The teenager allowed himself to be hugged for a few moments before gently pushing Usa away before looking around.

"So, where's your unlucky guy? He come to his senses and hightailed it out?"

Instead of responding to her little brother's snark, Usa turned around and waved for Trunks to come. Trunks gently pushed off from the car and walked towards the family. His princess was smiling lovingly at him while her mom smiled at him and her brother gawked.

"You're dating Trunks Briefs? Like, the Trunks Briefs?! Heir to Capsule Corporation, Trunks Briefs?" At Usagi's nod, Shingo couldn't help but add, "How'd you manage that?"

Before Usagi could respond, Trunks reached her side. He bowed respectively to her mom and brother.

"Hello, I'm Trunks Briefs. It's nice to meet you."

Shingo yelled, startling Trunks for a moment as he righted himself. "You're Trunks Briefs!"

Usagi rolled her eyes. "I thought we established that, twerp."

Shingo grabbed Trunks's hand and shook it very enthusiastically. "I can't believe it! I have all the latest Capsule Corp. products! You're a genius!"

Usagi rolled her eyes at her little brother while Trunks laughed. "I'll give your regards to my mother."

"Please do! Say, did you want to see my collection of-"

Usagi's mom covered her son's mouth before speaking. "I'm Ikuko, it's a pleasure to meet you, Trunks. Please excuse my son for his rudeness-" at this, Ikuko glared at him causing Shingo to sheepishly smile, "-I assure you, he was raised better."

"No worries Mrs. Tsukino-"

"Please, call me Ikuko."

"-Ikuko, thank you for your hospitality. I assure you it is much appreciated."

Ikuko nodded to her daughter in approval before inviting them in and dragging her son in. Trunks saw the exchange and smirked causing Usa to roll her eyes.

"You can turn the charm down now," she whispered. "I think they both like you."

Trunks' smirk turned into a full-fledged grin.

"I know it's late," Ikuko said as she motioned for the couple to sit, "but did you want anything to eat?"

Trunks smiled politely. "That would be lovely, thank you."

"Sure mom, that would be great!"

Ikuko disappeared into the kitchen as Shingo grabbed a seat next to Trunks, talking the poor man's ear off about all of Capsule Corps. Recent technological innovations. Trunks glanced briefly at Usagi in amusement before listening to Shingo ramble.

Dinner-or was it now early breakfast since it was past midnight?- was now served. Ikuko watched in amusement as Trunks and Usagi tore through the meal. They fell into a light conversation, at least until they were joined by the patriarch of the family.

"Dad!" Usagi exclaimed, jumping up and hugging him. The middle-aged graying man hugging his daughter tightly.

"I'm sorry, kiddo. I fell asleep," he said by way of explanation.

"No worries, dad," she said, smiling softly. "I hope we didn't wake you."

"No, not at all," he said, turning to the group. His eyes instantly fell on Trunks and narrowed. Trunks felt the room suddenly grow cold before standing up and bowing to the older man.

"Hello, sir, my name is Trunks Briefs. It's a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for allowing me to stay in your home." Trunks said politely.

The older man narrowed his eyes further before turning to his wife. "You didn't say he was stay-"

"You kids enjoy your meal! Kenji, let's talk in the other room!" Ikuko quickly ushered her husband off to the living room.

Trunks sweatdropped before glancing to his girlfriend and her brother who looked at him sheepishly.

"Mom was supposed to tell dad you were staying, heheheh…" Usagi offered, turning to Shingo in question.

"Yeah, about that…Dad came home from work today and he was so excited to see you-it was all he could talk about- mom and I didn't want to ruin his good mood."

"But it'll totally be fine! Right Shingo?"

"Yeah, dad's cool! He won't mind you here!"

Really? Because the raised male voice in the other room cursing his existence told Trunks otherwise.

The lavender-haired man looked between the two siblings who were both laughing nervously and sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose to ward off the incoming headache.

It was going to be a long week.

Stay safe and see you soon!