New chapter!
Disclaimer: Still do not own.
Also, this chapter is a long one. Enjoy!
Gohan stumbled as he ran up the stairs. He looked at his watch, and quickly sprinted up the stairs. The last bell went off and Gohan wasn't even close to his classroom.
He saw someone else running ahead of him, papers flying out of their book. Gohan quickly caught the papers, and caught up with the person running.
"Running late too," Gohan said as he handed the papers to Videl.
"I hit the snooze button too many times," Videl said as they both slid around the corner. "You?"
"Pan threw up on me, twice, so I had to change shirts, twice."
Videl was wearing her hair as a messy pony tail, which was quicker than wearing her usual pigtails. Gohan's hair suffered from wind damage, and it wasn't as perfectly spiked as he would like it. As they both made it to their classroom, swinging open the door, and panted a little. The students and teacher just looked at the pair with questioning eyes. Videl wiped off some sweat from her forehead.
"All right Gohan," Sharpener yelled. "You and Videl should have more good mornings!"
There were a few cheers as the two made it to their seats. Videl blushed a little while Gohan rolled his eyes. The teacher waited until everyone was silent before continuing on with the work.
"We're just late," Gohan said to Sharpener. "Pan's sick."
"Uh-huh. Messy hair, out of breath, and your shirt isn't full buttoned," Sharpener said pointing to Gohan's shirt. Gohan looked at his shirt, and quickly buttoned it up. "Gohan you dog!"
"Think whatever you want to think," Gohan said as he finished buttoning his shirt. "You can't tell me Ben never puked on you."
"He has, but his mother and I never came into school looking like you and Videl."
Gohan didn't say anything else. There was no point explaining himself to Sharpener.
Once school was done Gohan flew back to the Lookout. Piccolo was waiting for him, arms folded, looking at the half saiyan dead in the eye. Gohan lowered his head so he didn't have to lock eyes with an irritated Namck.
Ever since Gohan was fired from his job Piccolo has been pestering him to find another. Sadly, no one hiring at the time, and employers wanted people for mornings.
"Your mother came to the Lookout today," Piccolo said. Gohan froze. He was expecting another job talk, or responsibility talk. His mother never came to the Lookout unless she was getting Pan. Oh crap. "The school contacted her today. Do you know why?"
Gohan looked at Piccolo.
"Not really," Gohan said.
"Let me refresh your memory." Piccolo unfolded his arms. He began walking towards Gohan. "You're skipping out on gym classes. Your homework is not being handed, and you're falling asleep in your classes. There has been your attitude towards the teachers, you're constantly late to classes, and your mother is asking me why this is happening." Gohan didn't look Piccolo in the eyes. "If this goes on you will be kicked out from school."
Silence was the only answer Piccolo received.
"You're smart Gohan. Is there a reason why you are neglecting your studies?"
"No," Gohan said under his breath.
"There's a parent teacher conference at your school tomorrow. The teachers want a meeting with you, your mother, and myself."
Gohan lifted his head.
"Mom is dragging you along, isn't she," Gohan asked. Piccolo's cheeks turned a shade of pink.
"I told her your studies were not my responsibility, and she flipped out on me. I only agreed to go so she would stop yelling."
Gohan smiled slightly, and wondered if any of his other friends were in trouble like he was.
T'was the night of the conference, Son Gohan sat next to his mother
While they waited for a teacher next to one another
Piccolo stood by the wall with not a worry or care
Hoping that the teacher will soon be there
Gohan sunk in his chair as his mother glared
Worried about the news the teacher would share
Missed classes, low grades, his mother wasn't pleased
For she knew her son should be passing with ease
There was a knock on the door, a teacher slipped in
He sat in his chair, then scratched his chin
"Your son is failing," he said with a pout
"What? My baby," Chi-Chi said with a shout.
"Your son is smart, but there are too many passes.
Since he's no longer working, he can take more classes."
"I'll find a job," young Gohan cried.
"You said you had one! Son Gohan you lied!"
Chi-Chi was furious, her eyes turning red
Piccolo left the room leaving Gohan for dead
"Mrs. Son can you please put the desk down," The teacher said as he carefully grabbed the desk. Chi-Chi didn't let her eyes off of Gohan, but did put the desk safely on the ground. Once all was calm again, and Chi-Chi dragged Piccolo in the room, the teacher continued. "We have students here who are single parents, and they are struggling like Gohan here. We had students in the past who dropped out, and there are GED programs for stay at home parents."
"Gohan doesn't need a GED," Chi-Chi said slamming her hand on the desk. "Tell me what he needs to do to graduate high school. I'll make sure all of his work is done and on time."
"First he needs to participate in gym. He's failed the second semester, and needs to pull that grade up." Chi-Chi glared at Gohan. Failure was not an option. "He needs to be on time for his classes as well. The teachers all agree that Gohan is a smart student, one of the best the school has ever had. They offered to let him do some extra credit to bring his grades up. I know as a full time parent time is difficult, but if he manages to have the extra credit done, participates in his classes, and comes to school on time he can graduate with the rest of his class."
"What are his grades like now," Chi-Chi asked. The teacher looked at Gohan, who blended in with his chair, then back at Chi-Chi.
"Ah well…" the teacher fixed his tie. "His gym class is his only failing class, and his other classes are below average."
Gohan couldn't sink any lower in his chair. He could feel his mother getting angry, and wanted to escape out of the room. Piccolo disappeared once again, leaving Gohan alone with a teacher and his mother. He didn't even see Piccolo leave, and swallowed a hard lump in his throat.
"Below average," Chi-Chi said clenching onto her dress. She looked over at Gohan. "Son Gohan I can't believe you! I trusted you to pass high school with ease, and you've been lolly gagging the whole entire time! That's it, you're moving back in with me, and you're not allowed to leave until you graduate high school! Do I make myself clear?!" Gohan nodded. "And you're grounded!"
"Mrs. Son please put down the table."
"Don't tell me how to discipline my kids!"
-
Extra credit was done. Homework was done. Class participation was excellent, and his failing gym grade was an A+! Chi-Chi couldn't be more proud of her son as she watched him study for a test. Pan was in a playpen beside him, sleeping peacefully.
Since Gohan no longer lived with Piccolo, he wasn't as free as he used to be. Study groups were no longer on the Lookout, and Gohan refused to bring his friend's to his mother's house. So Videl, Sharpener, or Erasea would host at their house. He wasn't allowed to hang out after school unless he was studying, to where either Sharpener or Erasea's parents had to contact Chi-Chi to let them know her son was there. (Usually a maid would contact Chi-Chi at Videl's house, acting as her mother.) Chi-Chi also wanted to meet his friends, but Gohan would make excuses.
One being that Videl was his girlfriend, and he wasn't ready to have that conversation yet. Two being that Videl was the daughter of Hercule, the one who "defeated" Cell. Three, Sharpener had Ben at the study group a few times. Ben wasn't a big of an issue. He was always well behaved, but the travel to Gohan's house was pretty far. It was easier for the magic carpet to bring his friends to the Lookout. There was no magic carpet at his mother's house.
What made this day better was the fact that her husband, Goku, was coming back for a day. She made sure the house was spotless, had clothes picked out for her sons and granddaughter, and made sure to start her anti-wrinkle cream weeks prior.
Tomorrow Goku was going to be back, and all but one person was thrilled about the news. So far Gohan concentrated on his studies, trying not to think about tomorrow. He had mixed feelings about the whole entire thing. He hated his dad, but he missed him. He loved his father, but he abandoned his family after the Cell Games. His father's passing never really bothered him, but when she died it became more apparent to Gohan.
Gohan looked over at his sleeping daughter. If the tables were turned, and Gohan was killed by a monster, he would be wished back in a heartbeat. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Even though Pan had a whole bunch of family behind her, Gohan would never leave her because trouble followed him.
Actually, trouble always seemed to follow Gohan. It was more his fault, poor grades and attendance in school, but that was something that he fixed.
Okay, not really fixed. It was either get his butt into gear, or face the wrath of his mother. Either way, he didn't want to be in trouble anymore.
With a sigh, Gohan dropped his pencil on his desk. That was enough studying for now, and it was failing as a distraction. Truthfully, he wanted to see Videl. Since he wasn't seeing her as much after school, and they couldn't talk much during school, Gohan realized that his feelings for her were stronger than expected. There were always the phone calls, text messages, and Gohan may or may have not snuck out to see Videl for an hour. There were also times where Gohan "stayed after" to help tutor some students, when in reality he spent some time with Videl, sometimes with Erasea and Sharpener in tow.
He needed a life that didn't involve studying, and living with his mother wasn't giving him the life that he wanted. She kept saying how he needed to be a parent, and couldn't be hanging out all the time after school. It wasn't like he was going to leave Pan with his mother all the time. He didn't leave Pan with Mr. Popo all the time, and her grandparents were always thrilled to have her over. Besides, usually when he hanged out with his friends Pan was with him.
Gohan wanted his social life back, but living with his mother it was never going to happen. He wanted to live on the Lookout again. He could promise his mother that he'll keep his grades up, keep his attendance up, and graduate with a diploma.
But what was he going to do after that?
If he had to go to college and live with his mother…
Gohan pulled out his cell phone and called Videl.
"Hi Gohan," she said as she picked up. Gohan felt his heart pound as a smile appeared on his face. This seemed to happen when Chi-Chi stopped at his door. Too bad Gohan didn't notice.
"Hey," Gohan said as he leaned back in his chair. "Are you busy?"
"I'm with Erasea getting my nails done." She huffed on the phone. "Right now I'm getting my toe nails painted, and Erasea kept pushing me to get pink."
"What color did you get?"
"A dark blue. The girl doing my toes wants to add flowers, but I'm not into that girly stuff."
"I wouldn't be too surprised if you asked for a punching bag," Gohan said with a chuckle. There was a brief silence on the phone. "You asked for a punching bag, didn't you?"
"Boxing gloves on the other toe," Videl said with a giggle. "I think they look cute. I can send you a picture when I'm done."
"Miss 'don't touch my feet or I'll kick you' is going to send me a picture her pedicure?" Chi-Chi ears perked.
"I wouldn't have to kick you if you didn't tickle my feet!" Gohan chuckled. "Think you can sneak out today?"
"I need to get more baby food, and I noticed a clothing sale near the school the other day. I can't go yet since Pan is taking her nap."
"Can your mom watch her for a while?" Gohan smiled a little.
"I can ask her," Gohan said leaning forward. "She usually does when I get stuff for Pan."
"You haven't told her you have a girlfriend yet, did you?"
"Not yet," Gohan said with a sigh. "I'm sure she would be thrilled, and would want to meet you, but I'm waiting until my dad leaves. She'll be upset, and I know she'll perk up when I tell her about you."
Chi-Chi pressed herself up against the wall. He was talking to a girl! A girl! His girlfriend! Chi-Chi wanted to twirl around the house, but if she did Gohan would know she knew something. The thought of more grandchildren popped into her head, and her son being happy with his wife. Chi-Chi wanted to meet this girl that rescued Gohan from the darkness, and welcome her with open arms. Not only was Goku coming back tomorrow, but Gohan has a girlfriend!
Keeping her composure, Chi-Chi knocked on Gohan's door. Gohan fumbled with his phone.
"Gohan, I'm going to need you to run to the city to grab a few things for tomorrow," Chi-Chi said with a huge smile on her face. "I'll watch Pan while you go. Try and get some job applications while you're down there."
"Okay," Gohan said, with a bit of excitement in his voice. Chi-Chi walked away with a twirl. She could hear her son talking to his girlfriend, quite excited to leave the house. "What do you need in the city?"
Chi-Chi stopped her twirling and looked at Gohan. He stood there in the living room.
"Oh um…" Chi-Chi started to think. "Snacks!"
"Snacks?"
"Yes. Snacks. Junk food and stuff like that. There's not much around here, and you know how much your father loves snacks!" Gohan blinked. He always remembered his father eating healthy, and not much of a junk food addict.
Chi-Chi handed Gohan some money and watched him take off in the air. When he disappeared Chi-Chi checked on a sleeping Pan, and wondered what her granddaughter knew about her father's new girlfriend.
-
Gohan waited outside the nail parlor. He got some snacks for tomorrow, and kept them capsized in his pocket. The store clerks gave him weird looks as he quickly put potato chips in his cart, some dip, pretzels, a pack of diapers, and other junk food alike. He then quickly packed them into bags, and out of the store in ten minutes. He filled out an application, in hopes his speedy ways impressed the store manager. He grabbed another application for Sharpener, since he was looking for a job as well.
Videl spotted Gohan, and quickly ran to him for a hug. Erasea watched as they shared a kiss, both excited to see each other. Feeling like a third wheel, Erasea excused herself, stating that she had an essay to finish, and thanked Videl for a day out. The two were alone, and were able to catch up with each other.
And with any teenager, "catching up" didn't involve any conversations.
Videl laid on her stomach with Gohan's shirt on while Gohan rested on his side with his arm supporting his head, both resting on Videl's bed. He was wearing his dark blue jeans, which surprisingly matched Videl's toenails. He knew he didn't have much time to stay, and he wasn't ready to go home just yet.
"Are you sure you have to leave," Videl asked as she moved her legs back and forth. Gohan brushed a strain of her hair behind her ear. She grabbed his hand before he could move away. "I'm pretty sure your mom would let you if you told her you had a girlfriend."
"You don't know my mother very well," Gohan said with a small smile. "She'll be excited, really excited, and expecting siblings for Pan. That will be the first thing out of her mouth."
"Did she say that when she first met her?"
"Yes." Gohan rolled over to his back and put his arms behind his head. Videl crawled over and rested her head against his naked chest. "Of course, when I told her that she was going to be a grandmother she yelled at me. 'When I said I wanted grandchildren, I wanted them after you were married,' is what she said."
Gohan wrapped his arm around Videl. They stayed like that for a few minutes, and Gohan was contemplating excuses to stay longer. There was a long line at the store, he got lost, maybe tell his mother that the store had cute outfits for Pan and he couldn't decide what to get her.
Crap.
He wanted to get clothes for Pan and completely forgot. She had too many clothes anyway.
"Gohan?"
"Yeah?"
"You're not going to hide at my house tomorrow when your dad comes back, are you?"
Gohan looked at Videl, slightly surprised by her words. He wasn't planning on hiding out at her house when his dad came back, he was planning on hiding at Sharpener's house until his dad left! He had his excuse all planned out. Pan had a checkup appointment, and an emergency situation would appear. After a three hour wait, maybe four, Pan would see the doctor. Sharpener would come in with Ben, and Gohan would wait with Sharpener, since the doctors were behind on their schedule. They would go out to eat, since Gohan wouldn't be home in time for dinner, then Sharpener would have something come up. Gohan would have to watch Ben, and when Sharpener gets back it's too late for flying, and Gohan would spend the night at Sharpeners house.
Sharpeners house would turn into Videl's house because Hercule loved taking care of Pan. He also wouldn't mind Gohan spending the night, as long as he stayed in a guest room.
So he would be hiding at Videl's house…in the evening.
"I'm…conflicted," Gohan confessed. "On the one hand I'm excited to see him, on the other I wish he wasn't coming. I miss him, and I hate him. He gets to come back but she-"
Gohan bit his lips.
"It's okay," Videl said as she traced her finger on his chest. "You're always going to miss her. She is Pan's mother after all. If she could come back for a day…what would you do?"
Gohan sat silent for a while, then kissed Videl on the forehead.
"I'd introduce her to my new girlfriend," he said. Videl's cheeks went red as she sat up and looked at Gohan. "Then I would run like hell while she threw knives at me."
Videl quickly planted a kiss on Gohan, then straddled him on her bed.
-
Gohan, for the life of him, could not sleep if his life depended on it. He was wide awake, and so was Pan. He had her on his bed as she played with a few of her toys. Goten was tossing and turning, excited to see his dad for the first time. Soon his covers were thrown over the end of the bed.
"I can't sleep," Goten cried as he stuffed his pillow on his face. "I'm too excited."
"It's okay Goten. Pan and I can't sleep either," Gohan said. Goten crawled onto Gohan's bed and sat next to his brother.
"I know if I sleep I'll see him sooner, but I can't Gohan."
"I can make you some warm milk," Gohan offered. "Mom used to make me some to help me sleep."
"Okay!"
Gohan got up from the bed while Goten grabbed Pan. They made their way into the kitchen, and Gohan pulled out the milk. He quietly pulled out a pot so he didn't wake his mother, and poured the milk in there. Gohan grabbed another pot and filled it with water. He put one of Pan's bottles in there to warm up. Goten carefully placed Pan in her baby seat, fasten her in so she didn't fall. Since lack of sleep was affected both half saiyans, Gohan decided to make a few sandwiches as the milk warmed up.
"Dad used to sneak downstairs for a midnight snack," Gohan said as the two began eating their sandwiches. "Sandwiches were easier to make. He tried cooking a few times, but Mom always woke up to the smell of something burning."
"Was she mad," Goten asked.
"Always. I would be sleeping, and Mom's yelling used to wake me up a lot. She would then yell at Dad for waking me up."
"Do you think Dad will like me?" Gohan looked at his brother, who looked down at his lap while eating. "He doesn't even know I'm here."
"Of course he'll like you," Gohan exclaimed. "You look just like him, and you act like him too. He's going to love you."
Goten liked that answer, and smiled as he finished his sandwich. Gohan gave Pan her bottle, and poured the warm milk into two glasses. He added a pinch on cinnamon to both cups, and smiled at his creativity. He sat down across from Gohan.
"Mom said we're going to have a huge party at Trunks'," Goten said as he sipped his milk. "There's going to be tons of food there!"
"Dad will probably eat it all," Gohan joked taking sip of his milk.
"Is your new girlfriend going to come?"
Gohan sprayed Goten with his milk. He looked at his little brother, shocked. Pan started to crack up laughing.
"Wait…what," Gohan exclaimed. He quickly covered his mouth. "What are you talking about?" Whispering this time.
"When you left Mom started dancing around the house. She kept saying something about you and your girlfriend, and grandbabies. Are you and your girlfriend going to have kids?"
Gohan's face went red. How did she know about Videl? Did she hear his phone conversation? She must have. No wonder she wanted him out of the house, and didn't make a fuss when he came home a little late from shopping. Well if she knew he had a girlfriend then maybe she'll let him out of the house more often.
Gohan put the bottle back in Pan's mouth to keep her quiet.
"Let's not talk about this right now," Gohan whispered as he chugged down his milk. Goten smiled.
"What's she like," Goten asked. Ignoring Goten was just going to lead to more questions.
"She's nice and pretty."
"What does she look like?"
"She has blue eyes and black hair," Gohan answered.
"Does she like bugs?"
"She's not afraid of spiders."
"What's her favorite color?"
"Orange I think."
"Does Piccolo know about her?"
"He's met her."
"Well how come Piccolo met her but I haven't met her yet?" Goten pouted. "Why am I the last to know everything? It's not fair!"
"Shhhh!" Gohan put his finger over his mouth. "You don't want to wake up Mom. You know how cranky she gets when we wake her." Gohan noticed Pan's empty bottle and picked her up. "I'll bring her over sometime, okay. I'll make sure you are the first person I'll introduce her to."
"Okay." Goten smiled. Well that settled that.
Gohan patted Pan on her back as Goten went back to bed. He cleaned up the dishes as he held Pan, doing his best not to make so much noise. Once all was cleaned up, Gohan went back to his bed. He placed a sleeping Pan beside him, and watched her. A smile crept across his face, watching his innocent daughter sleep.
-
It was called doing a good deed, not being a coward as Vegeta put it. Gohan was helping Bulma set up for the party while everyone else went to the Lookout to greet Goku. He would be there, but since there was so much work to do at Capsule Corps he offered his help to Bulma.
"Can you put the cheese tray on that table," Bulma asked. Gohan nodded and grabbed the cheese tray. "Thanks for helping out Gohan. I didn't have time to finish last night, and I wanted it to be finished before Goku arrived. I wish I was on the Lookout to see your father."
"Uh, me too," Gohan said. "It's easier for Pan to nap if there is less commotion, and we'll see him when he comes by. I'm going to go check on her real quick."
Bulma smiled as Gohan made his way to his daughter. He had the baby monitor attached to his hip, and a burping towel tied to his pants. If anyone should win father of the year it was Gohan.
'And to think, not too long ago he didn't want anyone near him,' Bulma thought to herself. 'I'm glad he's happy now. Even Pan gets along with everyone. I'm glad I can hold her without her screaming in my ear!'
Gohan could hear Pan moving around in her playpen. She started talking gibberish, with the occasional "Dada" being mentioned. Everything to her was Dada, his mother and Videl included. Stuffed animals were Dada, Goten was Dada, and her bottle was Dada. He even took Pan to visit her grave, and when he told her that was Mama, Pan mooed.
Gohan peeked into the bedroom and saw Pan standing in her play pen. She saw Gohan and screamed. When she screamed she fell, then started to crack up into laughter. Gohan laughed too, and then his nose caught something quite foul. With a quick diaper change Pan was good as new. She had on a pink dress that had frills around the bottom. Her hair was pulled in a ponytail with a pink bow to match. Gohan carefully put on her white shoes, because he already ripped her other white leotards, and carried her in his arms.
"Who's a beautiful baby," Gohan said as he kissed his daughter multiple times on the cheek. "Did you enjoy your nap?" Pan spoke baby in return, then grabbed Gohan's single bang from his head. He winced, and pulled her chubby hand off. "That hurts Daddy Pan."
Gohan distracted her with one of her stuffed animals before she started to cry. He headed back downstairs, and then froze in mid step. He could feel everyone's ki approaching, including his father.
'It's only for a day,' Gohan reminded himself as he slowly went down the stairs.
"We're back," Trunks yelled as he swung the door wide open. Bulma quickly greeted Goku with a hug.
"Oh Goku," Bulma said as she began to cry. "I've missed you!" She quickly pulled away to dry some of her tears.
"It's good to be back," Goku said looking around the house. "Where's Gohan?"
"I heard him come down the stairs," Bulma said looking around the corner. There was no one there. "Huh…maybe he forgot something."
"His pride," Vegeta said as he entered the house. Bulma and Goku looked at Vegeta, but said nothing.
"Either that or Pan threw her shoe out the window," Chi-Chi said when she entered. Goku's face lit up from the sound of Pan's name. When he asked where Gohan was on the Lookout, Chi-Chi told him that he was helping Bulma. She also informed him about his granddaughter.
"Boy, I can't wait to meet Pan," Goku exclaimed as he smiled. "But first things first, I'm starving!"
It wasn't hiding; it was making a wrong turn and getting easily distracted by everything.
Gohan sat on a park bench in the Brief's indoor park. Dinosaurs roamed the area along with wild animals, and there were bushes and trees all over. There was even a waterfall on the corner with a big pond where Mr. Brief's koi fish swam. It was a little noisy, but peaceful at the same time. Pan sat next to Gohan as she chewed on a stuffed rabbit's ear. He knew he couldn't hide forever, and it wasn't like he was hiding in the bushes.
Okay, he was hiding in the bushes a few moments ago, but that was because he thought Pan threw her shoes that general direction. Once he realized that both shoes were still on her feet, he looked both ways and sat on the park bench.
"I'm a coward," Gohan whined as he rested his head on his hands. He looked over at Pan, who looked at him, then crawled her way over to his lap. "I guess I should just see him. He'll be too busy with everyone else that he won't even know I'm here." Gohan took a deep breath. "Okay. Let's go say hi to Grandpa."
Gohan picked up Pan and held her close. He exited the indoor park, and headed over to the voices.
"Well it's about time," Chi-Chi said as Gohan entered the room. Goku stopped eating when he saw Gohan, all grown up, with a child of his own. He quickly swallowed his food.
"Diaper change," Gohan said as he bounced Pan in his arms. Goku quickly made his way over and stood two feet in front of Gohan. "Hi Dad."
"Gohan! You've grown," Goku said as he brought his son into a hug. Gohan had to do the one handed thing, since his other hand was preoccupied with Pan. Pan looked at Goku, who looked a lot like Uncle Goten, but bigger. "And who's this beautiful baby?"
Goku pulled himself away and touched Pan's cheek. Even though he looked like Uncle Goten, he was a lot bigger than Uncle Goten. She quickly tucked her head away, quietly whining.
"This shy baby is Pan," Gohan said as he turned her towards Goku. She cried again and clutched onto Gohan's shoulder. Apparently, she didn't want to see Goku either. "She just woke up from a nap, so she's a little groggy."
"Wow Gohan. I can't believe you're a father! Where's her mother? I want to meet her."
There was dead silence in the room. All eyes were on Gohan, and it made him highly uncomfortable.
"Her mother…passed away giving birth to Pan."
The words came out easily, but a sharp pain hit Gohan in the chest. Here was his dead father visiting for a day, while Pan's mother was buried six feet in the ground. He shook away the feeling.
"I'm sorry," Goku said. Gohan noticed the hurt in his father's eyes.
"It's okay," Gohan said with a small smile. "I got my little girl here, and she's a major handful, just like her mother."
"Moo," Pan said. "Moo, moo, mooooooo!"
"And for some odd reason or another she thinks her mother is a cow."
Pan leaned back and looked Gohan dead in the eye.
"Moo."
Everyone laughed.
Gohan managed to stay in the room with his father as he shared stories of the Other World. He put Pan in her high chair and gave her some food to distract her. Gohan was able to make small talk with Krillin, and let Marron hold Pan for a while. Pan still was uncertain with Goku, and when she saw Goten with him she was more confused. She kept staring at Goku, and he would look at her she would turn her head.
Gohan did a quick diaper check and noticed that she peed. He excused himself to change her, and Goku decided to follow.
"You're handling this parent thing like a pro," Goku said as he followed Gohan up the stairs.
"I had practice with Goten when he was born," Gohan said. Once they reached the bedroom, Gohan grabbed a blanket and placed it on the bed. He grabbed a diaper and a wipe and carefully took off her shoes. "Girls are easier to change though. I don't have to worry about any water guns aimed at my way."
Goku chuckled as he sat on the bed next to Pan. She just looked at him.
"She's big," Goku commented. "How old?"
"She'll be a year soon" Gohan said being extra careful with the leotard. "Her grandparents was to throw a party at their house for her birthday."
"Her grandparents must love you." Gohan froze for a moment. He shook his head as he began taking off the diaper.
"They don't," Gohan said, refusing to look at his father. "They weren't very happy when she got pregnant, and they kicked her out of the house. After her death, John and Marsha washed their hands of Pan. It was hard on them, being their only child and everything."
"It was hard for you too, wasn't it?"
"Well…having your father die and then your lover die made it hard to move on," Gohan said as he wiped. Goku said nothing. Gohan put on a new diaper. "It was hard enough when the world celebrated the anniversary of the Cell Games, and I know it's going to be hard every time Pan has a birthday." Gohan looked at his father. "You hurt Mom you know."
Pan rolled over and crawled towards Goku. She looked up at him and just stared.
"I've hurt a lot of people Gohan," Goku said as he picked up Pan. He let her rest on his shoulders, making sure she was comfortable. "I just wanted to protect everyone, which is why I didn't want to be wished back. I was afraid if I was, something was going to happen to you and your mother and it would be my fault. I know it's hard to understand, but when you love someone you will risk your life to protect them. One day you will have to make big decisions in order to protect your family."
"I guess," Gohan mumbled. He understood where his father was coming from, but it was taking a while for it to sink in. "Pan is just like her mother, so it feels like she's always here. Goten is just like you too."
"It's like looking in a mirror," Goku joked. "He even eats like me."
"He's even afraid of needles."
Both men laughed. Goku pulled Pan away from his shoulders and got a good look at her. She was still not sure how she felt of a bigger version of Uncle Goten.
"Dada."
"I'm Dada," Gohan said grabbing Pan out of Goku's hands. He tapped her on the nose. "Who am I?
"Dada," Pan answered.
"And who is that?" Gohan pointed to his father.
"Dada."
"And who is this," Gohan asked showing her a shoe.
"Dada."
"And what's that?" Gohan pointed at the ceiling.
"Mooooo!"
Gohan looked at her before a soft smiled appeared on his face.
"That's right," Gohan said as he tickled his nose with hers. "That's Mama, and she's always going to be protecting you."
Goku smiled himself as he watched his son and granddaughter. The happy moment was soon ruined by a whiff of something smelly, and both men made faces. Gohan handed Pan to Goku, and suggested some grandfather granddaughter time, and quickly disappeared. Pan just stared at Goku, and soon her diaper was feeling uncomfortable. She began to cry, and Goku had to remember how to change a diaper.
It's been a few years, but it's just like riding a bike, right?
It's not like riding a bike. It's nothing like riding a bike! Pan moved around too much, and rolled in her diaper. Goku took off the dirty dress, and Pan began to crawl away. The dress landed on the ground as Goku reached for Pan. When he reached for Pan his gi landed in the diaper. Goku pulled back Pan, and quickly took off the now dirty orange top. It landed next to the dress. Pan crawled away once more, and Goku pulled her back once more.
Pan thought it was a game. Every time Goku pulled her back she laughed. For Goku, it was making sure his granddaughter didn't fall off the bed. He pulled back Pan, and as she began to crawl away Goku quickly wrapped up the stinky diaper. He noticed that Pan's dress wasn't the only thing covered in poop, and noticed his tugging was leaving brown streaks on the bed. His granddaughter had brown on her legs, and her hands.
There was only one thing Goku knew he had to do.
"Chi-Chi," Goku yelled as he picked up Pan. The smell was lingering in the bedroom, and Goku did his best to hold his breath.
-
"What irresponsible parent leaves their child with my husband," Chi-Chi yelled as she washed the bed sheets, Goku's orange gi, and Pan's pink dress. Goku sat by the tub as Gohan gave Pan a bath. "What were you thinking?!"
"I didn't want to change a dirty diaper," Gohan answered. He didn't dare look his mother in the eye. He could already feel the daggers attacking him in the back. "I didn't think everything would be covered in poop."
"Your father always had everything covered in poop!" Gohan looked over at his father, who sadly looked down pouting. "He thought it would be a great idea to destroy diapers with an energy ball. I had to buy new furniture because of the mess."
Gohan made sure to note that ki blasts and diapers do not mix.
"It seemed like a good idea at the time," Goku mumbled.
"Was it a good idea to let Gohan run around naked, and let him smear his poop on the wall!?"
Another mental note. No naked babies are allowed to run around the house.
"I didn't know he took off his diaper," Goku said, still pouting.
"What about the times you knew his diaper was off?" Chi-Chi turned and looked at Goku. "There were pee trails down the hallway, and presents all over the house! Why do you think I never left you alone with Gohan?"
Additional note. Never EVER, leave Pan with his father…EVER!
It didn't matter anyway. His father was leaving tomorrow.
Gohan unplugged the tub and watched as the water disappeared. He grabbed a towel and wrapped it around Pan. He carefully got up, and brought her into the bedroom. The smell of poop still filled the air, and once Pan was fully dressed Gohan was going to open a window. He could hear the ranting of his mother, telling more horror stories of poop. Gohan started to fear her first steps, and poop smeared walls.
The stories of him were embarrassing, but educational as well. Next time he sees Sharpener he'll have to ask him stories of Ben. Goten didn't really have horror stories. The occasional roll around, but nothing like what happened recently.
It was near evening, and Gohan put Pan in her pj's. It was a cute little bear outfit, with a hood with little bear ears. It was a zip up footie pajama, and it used to be her mother's. Gohan noticed that Marsha packed a few of her baby clothes, but this one was Gohan's favorite. He took a picture, and sent it to Videl. She immediately responded, saying how adorable Pan looked.
Gohan headed back downstairs, and all the females swarmed all over Pan. They loved her new outfit as well. Pan was enjoying the attention, so Gohan released her to the pack of women. This gave him some time to text Videl. Too bad his stupid grin caught the attention of his mother.
"What's her name," Chi-Chi asked as she peeked over Gohan's shoulder. This caught Gohan off guard, and he fumbled around with his phone. His face turned bright red. "So you are talking to a girl. You should invite her over!"
"T-that's okay," Gohan stammered. "She's probably busy. Finals and such."
Chi-Chi just glared at him.
"Pan just threw up all over 18." Gohan quickly looked away, and Chi-Chi took his cell phone.
"Mom!"
"I just want to know her name," Chi-Chi said as she hit some buttons.
"She's just a friend Mom!"
"Don't give me that excuse. I've seen that dumbfounded look on your face when you talk to her."
"Please give me back my phone!"
"I'm just seeing who else you have in your contacts."
"I can see you typing!"
"I'm just putting in emergency numbers-"The phone vibrated in Chi-Chi's hands. Gohan froze. "Oh look! She can come over. Don't forget to give her the address here. I can't wait to meet her!"
Chi-Chi handed a now paralyzed Gohan back his phone. He quickly looked at his recent messages, and read what his mother sent.
Come to Capsule Corps. I need to see you.
Gohan's face paled. Not only was he going to introduce his family and friends Videl, but he had to introduce her as his girlfriend! Videl is probably worried about him with Goku being back, and she's probably rushing her way over.
Gohan quickly stepped outside, trying to think of something to text to not have her come over. Nothing was coming to mind. Maybe tell her that he texted the wrong person, and meant to text Sharpener. That wouldn't work. Gohan began pacing in front of the building, trying to think of an excuse for her not to come.
The time it took him to think of an excuse, or lack thereof, Videl was already at Capsule Corps watching Gohan pace back and forth. She watched as he mumbled to himself, kicked the ground, then sat on the ground with his fingers through his hair.
"Gohan," she cried out as she ran over to him. It was just as he expected. She was in her usual attire, long shirt and spandex pants, and he was forced to wear a button down shirt and nice dress pants. Her hair was in pig tails, and slightly out of place. "Is everything okay? Did something happen between you and your dad?"
Videl quickly knelt down beside Gohan.
"You're so pale! What happened?"
"I'm fine," Gohan managed to say. "it's just ah…I wish he didn't have to leave tomorrow!"
Videl looked concerned. She lightly brushed his cheek and kissed his forehead.
"Gohan, you have a weird life where people come back from the dead, and have super human powers," Videl said. Gohan couldn't help but smile. "You should take this time and make some memories with your dad while you still can. Make sure you get pictures of Pan and your father."
It was just a sentence that he blurted out. It may have been true, but there was Videl, right by his side. Videl was there when he visited her, and he exposed his weakness to her. She held him, let him cry on her shoulder, and stayed by his side until he was okay. Here she was again, right by his side, listening to his feelings.
"I love you."
The words slipped past his lips before he could stop himself. Videl was surprised, and Gohan had a sense a fear.
"And who is this person who came to the house unexpectedly," Chi-Chi said she opened the door. She noticed the two by the house, and completely ignored the environment around them. Videl was quick to her sense, unlike Gohan. "Oh Videl! I didn't know you were here!"
"Hi Mrs. Son," she said standing up from the ground. "I was, uh, in the neighborhood and saw Gohan."
'I knew there was something about her when I saw her,' Chi-Chi thought to herself. "Why don't you come and have some snacks. I bet Pan will love to see you!"
"I was planning on heading back ho-"
"You should see Pan in her cute little bear outfit. She's so cute!" Chi-Chi managed to pull Videl into the house. She looked back at her son. "Gohan, your friend is here. It would be nice if you could introduce her to everyone so she feels more comfortable."
Gohan shook his head, and stood up from the ground. He walked towards the door, and stopped next to his mother.
"I'm moving back in with Piccolo," Gohan threatened. "And don't try and stop me."
Gohan gave a warning glance to Chi-Chi before walking into the house. Chi-Chi didn't react to his threat, and put on her best fake smile that she could muster. There was going to be an argument later, but for now the mother and son kept their mouths shut, and were friendly towards each other.
Videl seemed to fit in with ease, after being formally introduced as Gohan's girlfriend. Gohan kept his promise and introduced Videl to Goten first. When Gohan announced his new girlfriend to everyone in the room everyone went silent. Goku was the first to speak, and welcomed Videl with a hardy handshake. Everyone else warmed up to her, and joked around with her about Gohan. Everything went better than expected, and there may have been a slight hiccup in the road.
The hiccup?
Oh you know, being the daughter of Hercule, savior of the planet and the man who defeated Cell.
Yeah, that hiccup.
Pan was really the only one making noise when Videl mentioned this. No one really knew how to react to that. Gohan dating the daughter of Hercule, the guy who stole credit for defeating Cell, calling all the Z fighters weak, and everyone knew Gohan was never a huge fan of Hercule. The conversation took another turn when Krillin mentioned a really cool shell he found on the beach. He even had picture, which he gladly share with everyone else.
Not only was Gohan preparing for a fight with his mother, he was also battling himself for saying those three words to Videl. Since both teens were being pulled in different directions, Gohan didn't have any time to talk to her. He didn't know if he said a good thing, or a bad thing. He may be introducing her as a girlfriend today, but tomorrow Videl could be an ex!
It was getting late, and everyone was slowly starting to leave. Marron was fast asleep on 18, so Krillin made sure to see Goku off tomorrow. Goten was doing his best to stay awake, but ended up asleep on Goku's lap. Trunks already went to bed. The only person wide awake late at night was a grumpy, miserable Pan. Gohan couldn't even properly say goodbye to Videl since Pan was screaming her head off. Gohan managed to kiss her on the forehead, apologized for the screaming child, and asked Piccolo to walk her home. Videl didn't fight it, since Piccolo was going to watch her from the air.
Goku held a sleeping Goten, while Gohan kept his distance with a screaming child. Chi-Chi took Nimbus and flew next to her husband. Even though Pan's screaming was going to wake Goten, Gohan flew closer to his father.
"I'm going to the Lookout," Gohan yelled over his daughter. Goku looked at him puzzled. Gohan quickly glanced at his mother, then back at his father. "I live there now."
"I'll fly with you," Chi-Chi yelled. Gohan merely nodded, as he flew away from his father. Goku slowed down his flying as he watched his son and wife disappear in the distance. He lowered his ki as he carefully, and quietly, followed them to the Lookout.
When Gohan made it to the Lookout he saw Mr. Popo, waiting patiently for Gohan. He handed the screaming child to Mr. Popo, and once she was in his arms she stopped crying.
"All of your items are back in your room," Mr. Popo said. "Does Pan need a bottle before bed?"
"If she'll eat," Gohan said, waiting for his hearing to return. Mr. Popo magically made a bottle appear, and handed it to the now quiet child. Pan gladly took the bottle, and Mr. Popo left to tuck in the child. Gohan looked over at his mother, who was now off the flying Nimbus. "May I?"
"Go right ahead," Chi-Chi said, arms folded across her chest.
"What do you think you're doing," Gohan yelled. "Why are you ease dropping on my phone conversations?"
"Well if you wanted your phone conversations private you should close your door," Chi-Chi yelled back.
"You still shouldn't listen; I don't listen to your phone conversations! And why the hell did you text her?"
"Why were you keeping her a secret?"
"Because it's my business who I date!"
"You didn't have any problems when you introduced her to me," Chi-Chi snapped. "When you met her you wouldn't stop talking about her! You introduced her to me, and asked my opinion about her!"
"Because I loved her," Gohan yelled. "I had feelings for her before I even introduced her to you! Her parents didn't like me, and I was afraid you would be the same way about her! We were in love, and already ridiculed by other people!"
"You loved her? You're speaking in past tense Gohan! Do you not love her anymore?" Chi-Chi began to cry. "I don't understand Gohan. Why are you keeping everything a secret? Your grades, your girlfriend, your whole entire life? Ever since she died you locked yourself up and thrown away the key!"
"Well I'm sorry I'm not strong hearted like you," Gohan screamed. "I remember you crying at night when dad died, and forgetting that you had a son to take care of! Once you found out you were pregnant you suddenly remember you had a life outside your bedroom! You can't point fingers at me without pointing a few at yourself!"
"Let me give you a reality check Gohan! It's been seven years since your father died, and I didn't find myself in the arms of another man. She hasn't been dead even a year, and you're already sleeping with another woman!"
There was silence.
"Let me give you a reality check mother," Gohan said, his voice low and stern. "She's dead, and it took me a long time to realize that she is not coming back. Videl has been with me the whole entire time, and she never kicked me out like some people that I know." Chi-Chi took a step back. "I love Videl, and Pan loves her too. Pan's mother…I'm always going to love her, and I know that she will always be around in spirit, but I can't hold on to that forever. You wanted me to move on, and I did, but the one person who really needed to move on was you."
Gohan walked up to his mother and gave her a hug.
"I know you miss her too, and the one thing you had left of her was Pan. It was rough having a grandchild around that disliked everyone, and I know you were hoping that Pan would be just like her. She missed her mother when she was with us, but she was happy to have a mother like you. I'm not replacing her, I can never replace her, but Videl makes me happy…and I know she wants me to be. She wants you happy too Mom."
Chi-Chi cried as Gohan held her tightly. His mother and himself were one of the same. Chi-Chi wanted Gohan to move on with his life, while Gohan struggled. Now that Gohan has accepted her death, Chi-Chi found herself holding onto the one thing that made her son happy. She tried to be happy hearing about a new girlfriend, but it was hard when she realized that his old girlfriend was never going to return.
"I don't want your father to leave," Chi-Chi cried, soaking Gohan's shirt with her tears. "I don't want Goku to leave me again! Don't leave me too Gohan!"
Every mother knows that her children will grow up, and have kids of their own, and Chi-Chi was not ready to accept that yet. Gohan knew she had to, and he wished that one day she would accept that. She still held onto to that hope that Goku would return permanently.
"Be with him Mom," Gohan said as he carefully released his mother. "Spend the rest of his time making new memories."
Chi-Chi quickly dried off her tears, and nodded her head.
Goku held onto Goten tightly. He quickly departed from underneath the Lookout.
"You're a good son," Chi-Chi said pulling a tissue out of her pocket.
"You're an okay mom," Gohan joked. Chi-Chi playfully slapped him on the shoulder before departing on the Nimbus.
Only two, maybe three chapters left of this story. Thank you everyone for reading and reviewing. It's good to know there are still DBZ fanfiction readers out there.
I have a question for you guys. James1996 asked me this question, and I thought I should ask you guys as well.
What do you think Pan's mother looks like?
Leave your answer in a review, and the next chapter I'll let you know how I picture her.
Love,
-CrazyGohanGurl