Did Vegeta love his son?

Yes, Vegeta does love his son, Trunks, though it might not always be shown in the traditional or emotional ways you might expect. Vegeta is known for being a proud, tough, and sometimes stoic character, which can make it difficult to see the depth of his affection. However, over the course of the Dragon Ball series, especially in Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super, we see clear moments that reveal Vegeta’s love and care for his son.

Vegeta’s Relationship with Trunks

At first, Vegeta was distant and somewhat cold toward Trunks. In fact, when Bulma first revealed she was pregnant with Trunks, Vegeta’s response was less than enthusiastic, mainly because he was focused on his training and pride. However, as Trunks grew, Vegeta’s feelings began to change.

Moments That Show Vegeta’s Love for Trunks:

1. Protecting Trunks: During the Android/Cell Saga, Vegeta’s protective side starts to show. When Trunks is in danger, especially in the Android Saga, Vegeta steps in to defend him. His actions speak louder than his words, showing that he cares deeply for his son’s safety.

2. The Majin Vegeta Arc: One of the most significant moments showcasing Vegeta’s love for Trunks happens during the Majin Vegeta arc in Dragon Ball Z. Despite being manipulated by Babidi and fighting Goku under the influence of Majin power, Vegeta has a heart-wrenching moment when he sees his son in the crowd watching the fight. His love for Trunks is evident when he realizes the impact of his actions and wants to protect him, even at the cost of his own life.

3. Fatherly Guidance: In Dragon Ball Super, Vegeta is shown to care for Trunks in a more traditional fatherly role. He trains Trunks, teaching him how to fight and pushing him to be strong. While Vegeta can be stern, his training methods show his desire for Trunks to be strong, not just for the battles ahead, but also to protect those he loves.

4. The Emotional Farewell: When Trunks is shown in emotional distress or danger, especially in the Future Trunks arc, Vegeta’s concern becomes clear. His farewell to Trunks during the Future Trunks timeline is a deeply emotional moment, showcasing that Vegeta is more than just a warrior—he’s a father who loves his son dearly.

Vegeta’s Growth as a Father

As the series progresses, Vegeta’s character softens, especially in his interactions with his family. While he may never be as openly affectionate as Goku or other characters, his actions consistently reveal a deep, unwavering love for Trunks. His pride in Trunks' strength and his desire to protect him are constant themes throughout the series.

In conclusion, Vegeta does love his son, and over time, he becomes a more caring and protective father. While his way of expressing love might be different from others, the strength of his feelings for Trunks is undeniable. Vegeta’s journey from a distant, prideful warrior to a loving father is one of the most compelling aspects of his character development in the Dragon Ball universe.