Vulnerable
A/N: Hello! New chapter.
I have three guest reviewers so it will be hard to address them personally. But thank you for everyone that reviewed. For both who reviews on 10-29, thank you for your interest. For the first reviewer, I'm glad you enjoyed the story; and we all love a small cliché every once in a while ;) But will stay clear of them for a while, I have another thing in mind. You'll see very soon. For the second reviewer, I'm sorry you didn't like my story but unfortunately, we can't please everyone. I don't know if you want to discuss anything, I'm always available. And for the reviewer of 11-15, thank you for your interest. I hope you will continue to read. You'll see the future steps, I think you will enjoy them. And I didn't forget about the wish, it will have a role in the future. In the meantime, continue your search for the clues.
Happy reading!
Disclaimer: I do not own DBZ! However, I do own any new OC in this story.
Chapter 21: New horizons
It was like a bucket of icy water fell on her. Midori froze in place, her lips parted, breathing quickening, and tears hanging in her eyes just waiting for her to give up so they could roll on her cheeks.
She looked at her boyfriend, a lump forming in her throat "You? You, what? I'm sorry but I think I misheard. You love her? You mean as a friend. Or as a sister. Right? Please tell me you're lying to me. That it's all a joke."
Gohan swallowed, not daring to look at her in the eyes as he shook his head, his voice barely coming out "I wish I could."
He saw her preparing herself to say something but then decided against it. Then again. And he couldn't blame her. He himself didn't know what to say. She chuckled and started to bite her bottom lip, her eyes blinking to stop the tears from gathering. Until she gave up and he saw tears rolling on her cheeks.
She then took an inspiration, preparing to talk, before she sighed again. She then shook her head and looked at the boy in front of her "I'm leaving. I don't deserve this humiliation."
He saw her turn around and he called her "Midori, wait. Can we… Can we talk? Please?"
She stopped abruptly and glared at him. Then, she surprisingly slapped him with all her might "You are nothing more than a cheat. There's nothing more to tell. How could you? Look at another girl while you were with me?" She then started to punch him, making him back down, while tears rolled down her cheeks "You always told me you were different, but you were lying to me. You're the same as others boys. How could you do this?" Then her voice started fading "How could you?"
She then glared at Videl who stayed silent the whole time "And you! You're nothing more than a boyfriend stealer. You're the lowest of the low. And here I thought we were friends."
She then looked at both of them "Don't ever talk to me again. Both of you."
She then left them both and run until she found a clearing big enough for her to decapsulate her car.
And when she entered the car, she let her defenses down and started crying, before she hit the wheel "I hate him. Both of them. I don't deserve this. Why? Why me?" She then waited for a while to calm down before she could drive all the way back to Satan City to her parents. She was not in the mood to talk to anyone and right now, she craved her childhood bedroom and her mother's hot cocoa.
Back in the clearing, Gohan had his face in between his palm. That was definitely not how he planned on telling her. What a perfect boyfriend he was. Right when she was planning their two years anniversary night. And worst part was that he wasn't able to control his temper. Yes, he hated when people made decision in his place. He fought countlessly with him mother because of this. But never like this. He never threatened anyone. But something ignited inside of him when she talked ill about Videl. Something primal. It was a question of honor and he didn't even know why he got this defensive.
He then groaned and screamed before he punched into the ground, forgetting that Bulma had warned him about Videl. He squealed in pain when he felt a bone crack in his hand but he didn't care. He never hurt anyone in his life, he hated this feeling. He couldn't even look at himself in the mirror.
Videl saw him punch the floor and she quickly rushed to his side to look at his hand "Kami, Gohan. You're bleeding. You need to see a doctor you must have broken a bone."
He shook his head and hid his hand "It's nothing. Don't worry. Sorry about this."
He sighed for a while, not knowing what to say, before he remembered he still didn't know what brought her here and he turned to face her "You didn't tell me why you're here. Is everything okay?"
Videl swallowed and looked at him "Yeah… no. Everything's fine. I came to apologize for everything but it seems I made things worse." She then sighed and tried to look at him in the eye "Gohan, I am so, so sorry. About everything. I swear I didn't want this to happen. If I knew she was here, I swear I would've waited till Monday instead of coming here. I feel so bad, I'm so sorry. I feel like I'm creating more problems each time I see you."
He looked at her and rose gently her chin "Hey, hey. It's okay. Don't worry. It's not your fault. I'll talk to her on Monday, don't worry about it. You did nothing wrong, it was my fault. I should've handled things differently."
She tried to swallow the lump forming before she nodded at him.
He let go of her chin and sighed, passing his good hand through his hair "Let's get back home. It's gonna rain soon. Do you want me to fly you home?"
She shook her head "No, thanks. I have a copter. I'm gonna say goodbye to your mom and leave."
He nodded at her and they silently walked towards the Son residence, both not knowing what to say.
They reached the house and saw Goten rushed towards them, pinning Gohan to the ground. The latter winced in pain, his stomach injury still being a little new, as Goten started jumping excitedly "Big brother, big brother, come and see. I found an amazing bug. Come, come."
Gohan smiled at him as he held him so he could stand up "Another time buddy. It's gonna rain, come on. Let's go inside."
Goten pouted a little but nodded at his brother.
Over the years, Goten learned to idolize Gohan. He knew his brother would never lie to him and will always find the time to play with him. So, if he knew he wasn't in the mood or that he was busy, Goten would never pry on him because he knew his brother would make it up to him when he would have the time. Even after he started going to school and college, he always found the time to play with his brother. And Goten was grateful for this. He understood that Gohan will always put his family first, whatever the costs.
Chi-Chi saw them enter and smiled at them, until she noticed the absence of the second girl. She rose an eyebrow at her son who he spoke first "Did you finish everything? Can I help with something?"
She shook her head "Yes, everything's done. Don't worry about it. You worry on regaining your strength and studying. But I will need you to run errands for me and give the laundry back once it dries."
He nodded at her and Chi-Chi smiled at Videl "You're staying for dinner, right sweetie?"
Videl smiled at her while shaking her head "Another time. It's gonna rain and I wanna go back before it gets too dark."
Chi-Chi clearly wasn't convinced and she smiled at the girl "Okay. But since you're here. I need to talk to you. Gohan, Goten, could you leave us? Goten, go take your bath before dinner."
The younger boy eagerly nodded and dashed towards the bathroom.
Gohan also nodded at his mother before he made his way to his bedroom. He groaned as he left himself fall on his bed, head first. Right now, he wished he could just hibernate and forget everything.
Chi-Chi heard her oldest groan and she invited Videl to sit. The latter smiled when she saw the vase her mother gifted her years priori and she waited for the Son mother to speak "I'm not gonna ask what happened. Because I have a feeling the story doesn't have a happy ending. But since you're here, I need to talk to you about something."
Videl nodded at her "Sure, but first, can I say something?" She saw Chi-Chi smile and that encouraged her to continue "My mother told me what happened. And even though I didn't know the truth at the time, I still feel like I owe you an apology." She saw Chi-Chi wanting to replicate and she stopped her "Please, let me finish. I knew the truth from the start. And I didn't try to convince my dad to come forward. So, I am partly responsible for what happened. I actually discovered the truth right before Gohan's incident and I didn't have the time to process it. My mother and I both understand if you don't want to talk to us anymore but we both feel like we owe you a sincere apology. Even my father. If you would accept them, that is."
Chi-Chi smiled at her before she got up and hugged her, kissing the top of her head "Sweetie, you have nothing to worry about. Sure, I may not like this and I sure ain't accepting of Mr. Satan even though he's your dad but, I can't be angry at you and your mom because of his choices. And I already told your mother this. Now, that's out of your chest, I wanted to ask you something. Is Gohan's behavior, different?"
The raven girl rose an eyebrow at her "What do you mean?"
Chi-Chi sat back and looked at her straight in the eyes "Is he acting possessively? On impulse? Is he getting angrier when he's around you for a reason or another?"
Videl blinked at her, thinking for a while at her question. She then tilted her head "I always felt like Gohan was possessive of me. Ever since we were kids. But yeah, he's a little more possessive than before. He's always on the defensive whenever someone approaches me or talk to me. But I don't really know what you mean by 'on impulse'. But yeah, I sometimes feel like he's angrier but I never really paid attention to this. After everything he's been going through, I found it normal for him to blow off steam. Why do you ask?" She saw Chi-Chi nod at her before she remembered something "And now that I think of it. Is it normal for his eyes to change color naturally? If he's not in his weird golden state?"
Chi-Chi rose an eyebrow at her "What do you mean? Like bleu?"
Thinking that Chi-Chi was referring to the turquoise color of his transformed state, and seeing it was dark the night Gohan's eyes changed, Videl shook her head "No. Not turquoise from his transformation. Green and red. I saw them."
Chi-Chi nodded at the girl and started thinking. Green was the color of jealousy, it might've happened if someone approached Videl to court her. And red is for anger, if someone attacked her. But when and why? Bulma never told us it could happen.
So she looked back at her guest "When did it happen?"
Videl started rubbing her hands together "I remember his eyes turning green once in the library. It was when his friend, the guy Benjori, asked me out. But I don't remember if it was a one-time thing. And red twice. While he was protect me the day of the attack, and it also happened today. Midori said somethings to me and he got angry and I saw them change. Is it normal? I thought it might be related to his weird ability to change his hair."
Chi-Chi nodded at her "Sweetie, did they turn blue? And not turquoise blue from his transformation. You should know because it should happen when he's with you."
Videl shook her head "No. I never noticed this. Even when we were together. Besides, we never passed time alone, Midori was usually with us. There was one time, we were talking but I didn't see anything. Why? Why me? And what are these weird abilities? I never heard of something like this; they're so different."
Chi-Chi smiled lightly at her "If you think of it, we all have different abilities. That doesn't make us different or monsters."
The raven girl tilted her head at her "Monster? Why would you use this word? I never said that."
The Son matron chuckled "I know. I said it. Do you want tea or hot cocoa?"
Videl smiled at the mother and looked at her watch "Kami, it's already this late? I have to leave before the rain." And as if on cue, they heard the sound of the thunder and Videl sighed "Too late. My mother is going to kill me. I really have to go Chi-Chi, but thanks for everything. Tell Gohan good bye for me, I don't want to wake him up."
But the Son matron cut her "Non-sense. He's going to bring you back. There's no way I'd let you drive in this rain." She then proceeded to her eldest's room and saw him lying on his bed "Gohan, sweetie. Can you please bring Videl back? It's raining and I don't want her to get lost."
Gohan groaned a little as he got up and his mother patted him gently on his back "I know you're tired. But please sweetie. I want to make sure she gets home safe. And what happened to your hand?"
Her son nodded at her as he got up and removed the bandage with the senzu bean essence from his hand. It was almost as if he never busted his bones. He then put on sneakers and went to find his friend who smiled lightly at him "Please tell your mom it's okay. I can fly on my own. Go back to sleep, you need it."
He smiled back at her "It's okay. It will only take a few minutes anyway. But are you sure you don't want to eat first?"
She couldn't but smile, remembering how sweet he was. Always making sure the others were okay, even if he had to be uncomfortable. The world really didn't deserve a guy like him.
He then entered his room and opened a drawer, retrieving an impermeable jacket and he gave it to her "Here. Goten's should fit perfectly." She proceeded to put on the jacket and he smiled "You ready?"
She tilted her head at him "But why exactly would I need a jacket?"
He simply smiled "You'll see."
He then bid his mother goodbye and opened the door.
Videl didn't understand what was happening until she felt Gohan scoop her, a hand behind her back and one under her knees and he flew out of the door. She unconsciously closed her eyes when she felt herself not quite on the ground as she tried her best not to scream and pulverize the poor guy's ears. But man was Gohan going to get it once they reached the ground again; he could've at least given her a heads up.
Chi-Chi chuckled at her son before she closed the door behind him and went to check on Goten who surely prepared a bubble bath before she proceeded to finish their dinner.
But one question kept racing through her mind. Did Gohan's eyes turn to blue yet? She had to know.
In the sky, Gohan chuckled before he looked at Videl who was still closing her eyes "You're missing out. Trust me."
She replied, eyes still closed "I trust you. More than anything. But Gohan…"
He then cut her, a smile tugged on his face "No buts. Open them."
She slowly opened them and saw him smiling at her. She then looked down and her breath was taken away.
She already saw the world from up in the sky. She had travel by plane to different countries, and by jetcopters with her friends, family or by herself. Watching the world from up there wasn't something new to her. But seeing it without the protection of a machine, she never experienced it before. And yet, she felt even more secure in Gohan's hands than in her jetcopter or in a plane with a pilot with years of experience.
She saw the world from up there, from his perspective. The mesmerizing sights that were unraveling in front of her eyes. She saw the plains that would go on endlessly to the horizon, the ones that would then form mountains; the mountains that would hide something behind them, just waiting to be discovered. She could see the end of rivers, the lacs they formed or the ocean in where they would end. The endless forests of tall and majestic trees. Caves hidden left and right, just waiting for someone to uncover their secrets.
This, this was his world. And he was sharing it with her.
Her mouth was partly opened, the words escaping her. What could someone possibly say after seeing something this breathtaking? She, Videl Satan, was short on words.
He saw her silent, and he chuckled at her "That beautiful, huh?"
She simply nodded, one word escaping her "Wow!"
He laughed at her and she blushed. He then had a light smirk on his face and changed his destination without her knowing.
He then reached a cascade and, without giving her any notice, he let go of her. She started screaming, but no sound escaped her mouth. A silent scream. She saw herself falling parallelly to the water. And then, she saw him dive next to her. She understood it was safe. He will catch her when the time was right. He was next to her. She slowly approached her hand to reach the water and giggled lightly when they touched. She felt like she was five again and she would fall into her father's hands after he had thrown her up in the air.
He then flew around her until he stood behind her. He gently put his arms around her waist and stomach before he stopped their fall and started flying parallel to the ground. She had stars in her eyes and she flew next to rushing animals who tried to escape the rain, or when Gohan flew above a river and she dipped her hand in it, feeling the cold water hit her palm.
In this moment, she didn't mind the rain. She didn't care that they were defying gravity. She was happy. She was in his world. And she knew he would keep her safe.
Gohan then stopped, floating in midair, and he smiled at her, even though she couldn't see his face "So? What do you think?"
She kept on looking left and right "It's beautiful. You see things like this? Everyday?"
He chuckled and slowly turned her around to face him "Yeah. I figured you must have a thousand questions. So, I thought I could start by showing you this. Welcome to my world. I hope you will enjoy it." He then looked at the sky, noticing darker clouds traveling their way "The rain is gonna get harsher soon, I better get you back. Sorry you got this wet."
She slowly shook her head "Don't worry. A little rain never killed anyone. You're worse than me, I have Goten's impermeable." She then smiled, a hand gently caressing his face "Thank you for introducing me to your world."
He blushed a little before he turned her again, her back facing his chest, and his hands protectively around her waist "Let's have you experience firsthand flying without an engine. You ready?"
She eagerly nodded and he started flying towards West City.
They then reached the deserted alley next to her house and he landed there. She needed a little time to get accustomed to the ground again and Gohan chuckled lightly. She glared at him, sending a friendly punch towards his shoulder "What are you laughing at?"
He tried to stop his laughter "N-Nothing. Sorry."
She rose her eyebrow at him, calling him "Jerk." before she joined him in laughter.
They then saw light reaching the streets due to an open door and Hoshiko came out and found them, an umbrella in her hand "What are you two doing out in this rain? Kami, Gohan, you're soaking wet. Come inside quick. And shouldn't you be resting? What are you doing all the way here?"
Both teens blushed and Gohan shook his head "Don't worry. I'm used to this. I'm gonna head home, I don't want to cause a mess in your house. I'll see you in class Videl. Bye Mrs. Hoshiko."
He then started to float in the air before he waved them goodbye and dashed towards his house.
Hoshiko rose an eyebrow at Videl before she glared at her "In the house! Now! Go take a bath. And whose impermeable is this?"
Videl blushed a little before she rushed inside her house towards the bathroom. Hoshiko rolled her eyes at her daughter before a light smile tugged her face and she started laughing "To be young and in love again. Teenagers, I swear."
A few minutes later, Videl came out of the shower, her hair wrapped in a towel. She found her mother sitting in the living room and she gave her a hot cup of tea "Here. Now, wanna tell me why you were both out in the rain? If I remember correctly, you have a jetcopter."
Videl blushed "Yeah. Chi-Chi insisted that Gohan flew me back. She said it's faster."
Hoshiko rose a playful eyebrow "Ah! Okay monkey. Whatever you say."
Videl internally sighed, relieved that her mother didn't ask her anymore questions and she started remembering the magical moment she lived with Gohan.
Every time they pass time together, it was always fairy-tale like. It was so easy, so simple, so sweet. Like him. He always found ways to give her adrenaline rushed like no other; yet, keeping her safe at the same time. But today, today was different. It was more than magical. It was an experience like no other. She didn't even have the words to describe it. And only Gohan could give it to her.
She felt so bad right now. She felt like a bitch. He had just broken up with her girlfriend, who blamed her for the whole thing. And she couldn't blame her if she thought that. She hadn't been good at hiding her feelings for her spiky-haired friend. And she had to apologize to the brunette. She had to make her understand that she never acted on her feelings towards Gohan. She had promised herself this. She'd have to talk to Midori before Gohan so they could either patch things up together or break up on good terms.
They had one last class together to present their bioethics project. She will talk to her then.
Then, Videl's eyes widened and she rushed to her room to get her laptop. Her mother saw her jump from the couch and she started screaming "Videl! How many times do I have to tell you not to jump like this? What happened?" Her daughter then came back, her laptop in her hands and Hoshiko glared at her "Monkey! You're gonna get in serious troubles this time. What's going on?"
She saw Videl write frenetically on her keyboard until her eyes widened. Hoshiko saw her paralyze in place and she took her laptop from her hands, and read the headline she found 'Mr. Satan's daughter's kidnapping. What happened and who saved her? Here's everything you need to know.'
Hoshiko blinked and looked at her daughter "How? When? How did you know?"
Videl tried hardly to swallow "Midori told me about it. She found it online. But how?"
The mother frowned "Midori? As in Gohan's girlfriend? Why would she search for this? How would she even know?"
Videl then closed her laptop and sighed, closing her eyes and setting her head on the top of the couch "Gohan must've told her something happened to me when we were younger and she must have searched it online. But the article wasn't easy to find. Unless someone told her about it, she couldn't have found it."
Hoshiko blinked "Gohan told her? Why? Why would he do that? And you found it, so she could've easily too."
Videl shook her head "I continued to search for it because she told me it existed. It wasn't in the first search pages. Someone did a very good job at concealing it."
Her mother nodded at her "I'll tell your dad about it, don't worry. And you still didn't answer my question."
Videl sighed, noticing she wasn't able to dodge the answer "I don't know mom. Maybe he didn't wanna keep secrets from her? I think it was after the party. Maybe it was because they were in a fight and he had to patch things up. I didn't ask him about this because I never thought she would go out of her way to find this. I'll ask him about it later."
The chef started rubbing her forehead "Still, it wasn't his information to disclose. We'll talk about this later. But it looks like his girlfriend isn't your biggest fan."
The daughter chuckled "Not one bit. After the party, she became very distant. And today, she got in a very big fight with Gohan and they broke up. And she blamed me for this. I don't wanna talk about this. Where's Erasa by the way?"
Hoshiko smiled understandably "As you wish, monkey. She's at her parents. Her sister had an art exhibition today. She'll come back tomorrow before your finals. Wanna eat?"
Videl nodded as her mother left her with her thoughts.
Hoshiko entered the kitchen, ready to prepare the dinner. She started thinking about everything her daughter told her. First of all, she had to call Hercule about the article. Second, they had to find a way to understand how Midori knew and make sure she wouldn't say a thing. If she and Gohan broke up, it could cause a mess; especially if she held Videl responsible.
Hoshiko sighed. She had a lot of things on her plate. She still didn't understand everything about Gohan. She had to make sure what she knew was true. It was directly related to her daughter at this point. She had to understand what this whole 'mate' thing was so she could make sure her daughter won't get in trouble in the near future.
Whereas Videl, she was sitting alone in the living room. She was drying her hair with the towel while thinking about her moment with Gohan earlier. Even though he had just broken up with his girlfriend, he made sure she didn't feel responsible and that she was happy. He was just amazing.
She then remembered something he said. She didn't have the time to process it with everything that happened. And her cheeks turned red. He said he loved her. Not like a friend or a sister. Does that mean that Gohan had feelings for her? He admitted it? She couldn't believe it. She wanted to scream. To let the whole world know how she felt. He loved her? Her face couldn't turn redder at this point. She was over the moon.
Midori sighed while she sat in a booth in a coffee shop. Her parents weren't home and she didn't have her keys. She sat alone, sipping a hot cup of coffee, her mind drifting off to today's events.
She just couldn't believe that Gohan would be the type of person to cheat. It just wasn't like him. And she knew Videl had feelings from him, but she didn't remember her acting on them. But they did once go on a walk while they were fighting. Maybe something happened then. But she just couldn't picture Gohan cheating. It just wasn't his type. She knew him.
But right now, she felt so humiliated. How could he stay with her if he wasn't in love with her? How could he act around her like everything was normal? Passing time with her, kissing her, planning their anniversary. You can't fall in love in an instant, that was just in fairytales. Falling in love takes time. They both knew that. How could he lie to her?
Maybe he was waiting for the correct time to tell her, to break up with her. But still, he should've told her the moment he felt his feelings changing. And even though it never works, they might've broken up on good terms and stayed friends, at least for a little while. Then they would've drifted apart like any other exes.
But she couldn't help but feel betrayed. Why did she do to deserve something like this? Was this her price for being understanding and patient with him? She knew he had many secrets, and as every person, they are some you can't share with your partner. But they are some you can, yet even those, she didn't know them. But she waited for him to feel at ease, to open up, to come and talk to her.
She sighed loudly before banging her head on her crossed hands; this was not how she anticipated her day to go. The plan was to make sure Gohan was okay, plan their anniversary, then come back and go shopping with Ichika. She ended up fighting with her boyfriend, break up with him, and sit all alone in a coffee shop. What an amazing day this was.
She got up to the counter to get another drink and heard very familiar giggles. She turned and found herself face to face with Erasa, a girl that looked a lot like her but with longer hair tied in a high ponytail, and a boy with long blonde hair who was the perfect definition of a jock.
When Erasa saw her, her smile brightened and she hugged her "Hey gurl. How are you? What are you doing here? Where are my manners." She then motioned at the girl and the boy "This is Penny, my sister and Sharpner, a childhood friend. Guys, this is Midori. She's a friend from college."
They both nodded at her, smiling politely, before Erasa turned her attention back at her "Pen is my older sister. She just opened her first art exhibition. And Sharpner was a very close friend to Videl and I before she left. But we still try to see each other as much as we can."
Midori smiled at them "Congrats on the exhibition. And happy to meet you Sharpner."
Erasa noticed a down look on the brunette's face and she whispered "Are you okay? You seem down." She then saw a tear hanging in her eye and she blinked "Kami, you're crying? What happened?" She then turned to her friends "Guys, I'll see you in a bit. I wanna catch up with Midori, I haven't seen her in forever."
She then dragged the other girl to a retreated booth and sat next to her, handing her a napkin "What happened? Why are you here and not in West City? Are your parents okay?"
The second girl nodded "Yeah, it's nothing really. Just a little bit of stress."
Erasa rose an eyebrow at her "I don't believe you. But if you don't wanna tell me, it's fine. But at least talk to someone. It's not healthy to keep bottle up feelings to yourself."
But when Erasa was getting ready to leave, Midori stopped her "Did you know?" Erasa tilted her head at her and she continued "Did you know that Gohan loved Videl?"
Erasa quickly sat down "They were like brother and sister for as long as I can remember. Of course, they love each other."
Midori shook her head "No, not like this. He loves her. The same way I thought he loved me."
Erasa blinked. And again. And again.
She knew her spiky haired friend had developed feelings for her best friend. Maybe a physical attraction. Or because they didn't see each other for a while. But to actually love her. That, she couldn't believe it. Since when? Why was she this oblivious to these details?
Midori chuckled, getting Erasa out of her trance "I know, right? I had the same reaction. I guess they both kept secrets from us."
Erasa blinked, her focus still somewhere else "How did you? When did you? What!"
Midori chuckled again "Today. He told me. Videl came, and we fought. It looks like it's the only thing we're doing these days. Then, by anger, I insulted her. And he defended her. Then he told me." She then exhaled loudly "Yeah, that's pretty much it."
Erasa bit her lower lip "Wait, so you guys?" Midori nodded "No!"
The brunette laughed lightly "Yeah. I mean, I saw that one coming from a mile away. I had a hunch, if you want, that Gohan will break up with me soon. But then I thought to myself no, he loves me. But I was wrong. It's okay. I had that one coming. I mean, who can rival with your childhood crush?"
Erasa then scooched next to her and passed an arm around the brunette's shoulder and hugged "I'm so sorry. I never thought. Kami, that's a lot."
The green-eyed girl nodded "Yeah. It's okay. I'll get over it, I guess. I mean, it's not like I envisioned my life with him. We're still kids. High school sweetheart is only a concept. But I thought that breaking up with him was so far in the future since everything was going on perfectly until now." She then chuckled "I kinda jinxed myself."
She noticed Erasa didn't say a word and she got off her grip "Anyway, I don't wanna ruin your evening. Go and sit with your sister. It's a happy night. I'll see Monday at uni. We reserved a study room in case you forgot."
Erasa tilted her head at her "Wait. You're… okay? I don't understand."
The brunette smiled at her "I will be. I don't want a stupid fight. I can't accuse Gohan of cheating without proof, and I know neither him or Videl ever do anything. Your reaction was the perfect proof of this because I know she can't lie to you. I will be alright. I'm not the first person to get their heart broken. I promise."
Erasa smiled back at her, hugging her again "I'm here. Always." She then looked at her in the eyes "Now, you are coming with us. There's no way you're gonna stay here alone. And there's a new restaurant we're dying to try." Midori chuckled as she tried to get out of the invitation but Erasa cut her again "No, no excuses. Now, a small heads up. I'm much funnier than my sister but still, try to laugh at her jokes. Poor girl, tries to be like me. And Sharpner used to be a jock in high school and he's just now learning how to be a decent human being. You'll love him though. Very friendly when he's not busy flirting on every passing girl."
Midori smiled at Erasa before she hugged her, tightening her grip around her "Thanks. Let me just get my coat."
Erasa hugged her back before the cheerleader let go of her and nodded, a light smile forming on her face.
After Midori got her coat, she found her friend and they all got into Sharpner's car. But before they entered, Erasa looked at Midori and motioned at her to follow her. They stood under the roof of a closed store and the blonde girl smiled at her friend "Look. This means nothing. But I found something. It was a letter Gohan wrote Videl when she was still away. But he never sent it to her. I can send it to you if you want. But you have to promise me he'll never know I gave it to you. Again, it means nothing about what happened today, but you might as well know. It might help you get the closure you need."
Midori smiled at Erasa and nodded firmly at her, making her understand that no one will know about the letter. The blonde girl nodded back before she sent it to her. They then got in the car and left towards the restaurant.
Midori looked at her phone. She'll read it once she gets back home. It might help her know how to react on Monday in front of her ex-boyfriend. Right now, she just wanted to focus on having fun. Kami knew she needed a change of mind.
Chi-Chi patiently waited for Gohan to come back. Goten had eaten and was fast asleep, so she could talk with her eldest without getting disrupted. She saw him land near the window and she welcomed him with an umbrella and told him the bath was ready.
The young boy then ate his dinner and sat with his mother on the couch, a cup of hot cocoa in his hand. She smiled at him, caressing his face, as she talked "You've grown up. You look so much like your dad. I'm not gonna ask what happened to your hand but I assume it's better with the essence?" He smiled at her, kissing her palm, and she continued "What are you gonna do?"
He sighed loudly, his head resting on the back of the couch, and he closed his eyes "I have no idea. I have to talk to Midori first. I can't leave things like this."
His mother nodded understandably "That's a wise thing to do. I thought you to always respect women. And Videl? What are you gonna do about her?"
The young boy shook his head "I have no idea. I can't tell her the truth. She'll see me as a monster. She'll never accept me. With my dormant powers just waiting to explode, I'm like a ticking bomb."
His mother smiled gently at him before she took his head between her hands and helped him lay on the couch, his head resting on her lap as she caressed his face "You remember how much you liked sitting like this? Even though now your feet are dangling, I still enjoy sitting like this with you. You grew up too fast." They both smiled at each other as Chi-Chi continued to stroke his hair "Sweetie, why do you think Videl will hate you? When I learned the truth about you and your dad, I didn't love you any less. I already told you this the first time Videl came over, if she cannot accept someone who's different, it's her problem, not yours. Besides, who said you are a monster? Who said you're a ticking bomb? You are the most gentle and sweetest person in the word." He sighed at her and she kissed his forehead "Sweetie, she has the right to know. You're already showing protective signs towards her."
Gohan straightened his sitting position and looked at his mother "What do you mean?"
Chi-Chi frowned a little "I don't know sweetie. Bulma never told me about this, I guess even she doesn't know this much details. But your eyes are changing colors depending on your mood. You're gonna have to ask Vegeta more details about this. But Videl told me she saw them turn green and red."
Gohan tilted his head "I didn't know. I didn't feel a thing. But green and red, it's good. It's not bleu. So, I'm still safe. I don't have to tell her anything."
Chi-Chi chuckled at him "What makes you so sure they never turned bleu? She seems like the perfect person to you. If you didn't feel a thing when they changed to red and green, who's to say you will feel something when they turn blue?"
Gohan sighed again, rubbing his eyes with his fingers "I don't want her to know. I'm afraid of her reaction. What if she doesn't accept me? If she rejects me or hates me? My ancestors are murderers. Who would want to be affiliated to someone like this?"
The Son mother smiled gently, and took his hand in hers "Someone who loves you truly, for who you are. Regardless of your origins or past. Someone who sees you as you. And my motherly instinct tells me she does. So, two questions remain. Do you love her? And what are you going to do?"
Gohan reciprocated the gentle smile his mother was giving him, and he squeezed her hand "Yeah, yes, I do. But I'm not gonna tell her now. I need to think of a way to tell her."
His mother nodded at him "Okay sweetie. Start first by apologizing to Midori. I know your generation tend to think break ups are normal, and I understand your points of view on the matter even though I don't accept it. But I still think you were at wrong for hiding it from her for this long and she deserves an apology."
The young boy nodded at her before he kissed her "I love you mom. Thanks for always guiding me."
Chi-Chi smiled at him "I love you too sweetie. As I told you before, I'm the parent. It's my job."
Gohan nodded at her before he rested his head on the couch and he sighed. She looked worriedly at him and caressed his hair "Everything okay sweetie?"
The boy nodded "Yeah. I'm just, tired, I guess." He saw his mother wait for him to continue and he sighed "Why can't I have an easy life? Why do I have to balance everything? I love my Saiyan heritage and I love my human part. But why can't they balance each other out? It's so tiring to always have to pay attention. Don't hold the handle too strong, it'll break; be careful with the plates or you'll crush them; same with a handshake. Why do you eat this much? Your body is so ripped, do you work out? You can't choose who you want to spend the rest of your life with, your genes will do it for you. Why can't I fall in love like normal people?"
Chi-Chi chuckled a little before she sat closer to him "You really bottled everything for a long time, did you? Sweetie, I'm no Saiyan, thank Dende, and I'm not an expert; but I can tell you something as a mother. You should never do something you're not comfortable with. And you should always see the positives in everything. Let me help you with what you said. Breaking the handle or having a ripped body could also mean that you are strong enough to protect your loved ones. Your muscles aren't only for showoff. And having a strong handshake can also mean that you know how to assert yourself, which isn't something bad. For eating, sure you are bottomless pits but, you have no idea how happy I get when I see you eat. I know that you are appreciating the hard work in out into preparing your food. So, you see, always see the positives in things."
He smiled at her and hugged her "You're the best."
She winked at him "I know. Now, one last thing. Your genes didn't choose who you want to spend your life with. You did. Sweetie, I've seen the way you looked Videl ever since you were kids. You were amazed by her, so protective and gentle. More than usual. Your genes balanced each other then, without your knowing. Your human part loved her gentle and curious side while your Saiyan part loved that she was adventurous. When you grew up, all your genes did was reminding you that you originally chose her. I know it's hard, especially with everything that's going on, everything has a solution. Besides, your genes didn't choose her. You did. Sweetie, Saiyans rarely fall in love. And surely not in the same way as humans. But you, you fell in love with the girl. Not because her physique helped or her character. If anything, no Saiyan would choose her, she has a small frame. You fell in love with her character, her curiosity, her gentleness. She's someone who puts the needs of other above hers, just like you. In a way, she completes you and in another, she's just like you. All your genes did was help you fall in love more. They helped you pay attention to the small details faster, that's all."
The young boy nodded at her "I didn't think of it this way."
She squeezed his hand "Sweetie, she makes you vulnerable. I'm not saying it's good; quite the opposite actually, you should be grateful I didn't confiscate your Saiyaman watch yet. But if you think about it, it's like she makes you human. Isn't that what love is all about? Trusting someone enough to be weak in front of them?"
Gohan blinked before he smiled and kissed his mother "Thanks mother."
She smiled at him and ruffled his hair "Now, go sleep, you need to rest. You have a lot of studying to make up for. And Bulma still needs you in the lab when you can."
The oldest half-Saiyan nodded before he left to his room to sleep.
He sat on his bed, making sure not to wake his younger brother up, and he looked at the ceiling, his hands behind his neck. How can he apologize to Midori without revealing the truth about him? He wanted to salvage their relationship, even if it meant staying friends. But how can he explain to her why his attraction to Videl wasn't in his hands without disclosing everything. He had to think this one through.
And he kept on thinking about what his mother told him. She was right. He fell in love with Videl, he wasn't only attracted to her. His mind kept on drifting to what the nurse told him. Yes, he first fell in love with Midori. She was amazing, gentle, caring, and even adventurous. But his heart became alive with Videl. Even though she was a lot like Midori, she was somehow different. She was curious and carefree, very stubborn and perceptive, courageous and brave. But she was also sweet, trustworthy, attentive, caring and affectionate. And very beautiful. How could anyone not fall in love with her? If anything, it should be a crime not to find her remarkable.
Dende, he had it bad for the girl. He then chuckled, thinking it shouldn't be healthy to be this much in love. But his mother was right. And his heart was right. It kept on screaming at him the moment he saw her again. When he saw her in the cafeteria on her first day, even though he didn't recognize her at first, it was the moment his heart became alive again. He didn't even know it was dead until this very moment.
When their eyes met, something awoken in him.
She was the one. He knew it.
Midori had been standing for almost an hour in front of the CC's gates. She read the letter Erasa gave her and she needed to talk to Gohan. She called his house, faking her voice to confuse Goten, and the child told her that he left for work. So, she decided to come and visit him. She couldn't wait till Monday to talk to him, it was urgent.
After standing there for an hour, she took a big inspiration and prepared herself to buzz, only for the gates to open and she found herself face to face with a very angry Hoshiko who was talking on the phone "No. No, I don't care. That's not what we discussed. Kami, I'm so sorry. Hey Midori, sweetie, one second please. Hello, yes. Look, don't make me come personally. If you don't fix it, I don't care whose fault it is, there will be layoffs. Mistakes like this are unacceptable. My daughter is on her way to come and check on you and she'll report back to me." And she then hung up.
The Satan mother sighed, two fingers pinching her nose, before she looked at the young girl next to her "I'm sorry Midori, I didn't expect you to be behind the doors. You're not hurt, are you?" The girl shook her head and Hoshiko sighed in relief "Thank Kami, I have a thing with bumping into people behind doors. Where you waiting for someone to buzz you in or were you just arriving?"
Midori blushed a little "Been waiting to buzz. I needed a little time."
Hoshiko knew the reason why the young woman was hesitating but nonetheless, she decided to play it dumb, hoping to know little more details on the story. Her daughter and Gohan's lives were included as well in this mess and a little curiosity never killed anyone. She just hoped that Midori would buy her lie "Is everything okay? You look a little off."
The green-eyed girl nodded, a fake smile on her face "Um, yeah. I guess. After everything, I guess I'm doing okay." Midori saw Hoshiko waiting for her to continue, as if she didn't know what happened, and the young girl spoke "Gohan and I fought yesterday. More like broke up. But I said some insulting things and I need to apologize. I just couldn't muster the courage to enter."
The Satan mother smiled at her "I don't know what happened, but if you need anything, I'm all ears. Break ups happen all the time, the most important thing is how to get over them. Now come, Gohan is in the lab and I think Bulma will be over the moon to see you. We've been trying to get him to take a break for over an hour."
Midori chuckled a little and followed the mother into the CC's corridors.
Even though she talked ill of Videl and Gohan the day before, she felt guilty for the way she treated them. She jumped into conclusions without hearing their sides of the story. And if her relationship with Gohan thought her anything, it's to always give people a second chance. And Videl's mom was an amazing person. So friendly and wise. She understood why Gohan used to talk so high about her.
They walked in silence for a while before they heard someone talking in the lab. Since it was Sunday and the company was empty, Bulma had decided to keep one of the doors open in case someone urgently needed her.
Hoshiko looked at Midori and whispered "It looks like Gohan and Bulma are talking. I think it's best we leave them alone for a while."
Midori nodded and they both waited for the conversation to end. Not that they were polite, it was that both people were very curious about what they wanted to talk about. Because they knew Bulma was Gohan's confident and it might just give them the answers they needed.
Inside the lab, Gohan was too focused on Bulma to pay attention to the two Ki signatures that were standing very close to them. Bulma was sitting opposite to him, patiently waiting for him to speak, until she snapped "Okay, that's enough. If you're not gonna talk, I'll ask the questions. What the hell happened? Did you seriously snap at your girlfriend because she badmouthed your friend? Saiyans seriously, you have no manners."
Gohan blushed a little "It's not my fault. I don't know what happened. Seriously, are you here to lecture me?"
Bulma rolled her eyes "No. I'm here to tell you to pay attention. We already talked about this. I'm positive that Videl is the mate your body was searching for. We both know that. But Gohan, your hormones are controlling your emotions. You're acting possessively and you're basing yourself on your instincts only. Plus, your eyes are surprisingly turning green or red which is not a good sign. We need to find a solution to this."
The Son boy tilted his head "I thought Vegeta mentioned only a change to blue."
The CC heiress nodded "Yes and no. Blue is for when you found the mate and your body accepted her. But right now, your genes are reacting because they felt like you weren't acting on their choice. Vegeta explained it in a hurry before he hung up on me. When your friend flirted with Videl, you should've reacted and stopped him. You didn't so your eyes turned green to make the mate understand that it's not okay. And when she was in danger or being insulted, they changed to red because you were angry. That was to make the other person understand they shouldn't mess with her. Kiddo, it's becoming dangerous. You have to talk to Videl and fast."
Gohan started banging his head on the counter "I hate my life." He then looked at Bulma straight in the eyes "I can't. There's no way in Dende's name that I can tell her the truth." He saw Bulma wanting to talk and he stopped her "What am I supposed to say? Huh? 'Hey Videl, guess what. I'm actually half-alien, and my genes are forcing me to you. Not only that but I might go crazy if I don't mark you. That means that you'll be forever bound to me and if we break up, you'll never be able to get married to someone else without dying. But hey, no pressure.' I don't need her to be afraid of me, or hate me. It's bad enough I can't look Midori in the eyes to explain what's really going on. I can't even tell the girl I love that in case I mark her by mistake, I'll ruin her chance at a happy marriage if we break up."
Bulma sighed and stood next to him, holding his head between her arms "We'll figure this out. Is someone truly loves you, they'll accept you. Look at your mother and me. Being Saiyans didn't stop us from loving your dad and Vegeta any less. Even Midori will understand. But don't blame it on the genes kiddo. Saiyans rarely fall in love the same way as humans. But you did, you fell in love with Videl. So, you should apologize to Midori because you developed feelings for someone else while you were in a committed relationship. Even if you and Videl never acted on it."
The hybrid sighed and nodded "You're right. I'll talk to her tonight. Dende my life was never meant to be easy, right?"
The bleunette chuckled and winked at him "Wanting to be normal in your conditions comes with a price. If someone told me that you would have the most complicated relationship of us all, I wouldn't have believed it."
The boy chuckled back "Me neither. I mean, I love Midori, I really do. She's amazing. But I don't know, Videl is different."
Bulma gently ruffled his hair "Kiddo, who are you trying to fool? You've been in love with Videl ever since you were kids. You came to visit three times just to get an idea for a birthday gift." Gohan nodded at her but she continued "But kiddo, I feel like I have to remind you to be careful. I can still see the scar on your hand so I know this injury is new. Be careful when you're around Videl. At least until we understand what this vulnerability is all about."
Gohan passed his hand through his hair "Still no clue about this?"
His godmother shook her head "None. I know it's in your genes, but I'll have to study it more. Vegeta has no clue but he's surprisingly trying something on his own. But trust me kiddo, we'll find the answer to this. As romantic as it sounds, being vulnerable, knowing your history with danger, is very, very dangerous."
The Son boy blinked "You really think I'm doing this to be romantic or something?"
She laughed at him "I never said that. All I'm saying is that you can take the best of this for a romantic setting. Now, enough chitchat. We still have a capsulation process to study."
Midori and Hoshiko were both standing near the door, not knowing how to react. Gohan was an alien? What? Hoshiko had already reached this conclusion but, she always thought it wasn't true. It was too weird to imagine. And it added even more questions to her pile. And the look on Midori's face made her understand that she was as clueless as her. But how can they know more on the subject without raising suspicions. And what was that about marking Videl? And she might die if they break up and get married to someone else? Hoshiko was almost panicking at the news. Her daughter's life was actually in danger and she had no way to know more details on the subject. How could they keep something like this from them? They didn't have the right to do this.
And Midori was also dumbstruck. It was one thing to know that Gohan was special. But for him to actually be an alien; well half at least. Wow! And the worst part was that his genes weren't accepting of her. His genes didn't find her suitable and they "ordered" him to search for someone better. She didn't know if she should feel offended or not at this. In a way, Gohan wasn't really at fault that he chose Videl but, at the same time he was. His genes wanted her but he decided to fall in love, did she get this right? But he decided to keep her in the dark. Yes, sure, telling her he was actually an alien is hard, she understood that. But he could've at least told her something, anything, instead of keeping her in the dark like he did.
But she didn't come to fight with him. She came for the sole purpose of discussing this. She knew that when she'll ask about this, he will lie and hide some truths from her and she couldn't blame him. But at least, now she knew a little bit more what was happening. And she might get the closure she needed to get over this and move on with her life.
Midori then felt Hoshiko put her hand on her shoulder and she motioned at her to stay quiet while she followed her further into the corridor. Hoshiko then nodded at her and started asking her about her day and any possible chitchat topic while they made their way to the lab. Both of them knew better than to discuss what they heard and they couldn't let Bulma and Gohan know they eavesdropped in their conversation.
They entered the door as Gohan and Bulma were laughing. They turned to the door and Gohan froze in place. Midori smiled lightly at him and he got up, not knowing what to say. She chuckled a little when she heard him stutter and Bulma laughed "I swear he gets shyer each day. Hello Midori, I hope you're doing well. Now, please take him with you. He hasn't taken a break in forever."
Midori chuckled as she took a very red Gohan to the gardens. Hoshiko rose an eyebrow at Bulma who was pouring herself a cup of coffee "Um, you know? Right?"
The CC heiress nodded as she gave her a mug "Yeah. But I also know that they need to talk. I don't want unnecessary drama. Wanna go sit in the living room while they talk?"
Hoshiko nodded "Yeah. Videl should be coming soon. I don't want them to see each other and cause a mess."
Bulma nodded understandably as both women walked towards the living room, chitchatting about this and that.
On the teenagers' side, Gohan was becoming redder by the second and Midori chuckled at him. They reached the gardens of CC and she turned to look at him as she spoke "Gohan, can we talk?"
The boy nodded and spoke before her "Wait. I, I'm. I wanna say I'm sorry. For everything. I shouldn't have kept things for this long and you should've known sooner. And I know, I was jerk. And a cheat. And nothing I will say to make it up to you."
She smiled gently at him and sat on a bench "Gohan, first of all, thank you. I really appreciate it. And I also wanted to apologize. I shouldn't have called you a cheater. I have no proof and I know you. I trust you enough to know that you're the most honest person ever. I was angry at you, at Videl and at myself that I let my emotions get the best of me. I should've known better."
The young boy blinked "Wait. So, you're not angry?"
She shook her head "Not as much as I thought I'd be. If anything, I'm sad that I had to know that way. And that you lied to me all this time. I still don't forgive you and I will need time. But I can't blame you for falling in love with her. Or to be honest, to fall in love again. I know everything."
He tilted his head at her, blinking several times "What do you mean? Everything?"
She saw a panicked look on his face, and she understood he was afraid she knew the truth about his origins. Deciding she wanted to keep this information a secret for now, she showed him her phone "I mean this." And he saw the letter he wrote years ago "I read this. I could never rival with this. It's so innocent and pure."
Gohan blushed, discovering new shades of red, and took her phone in his hands "When did you? How? Oh, Kami!"
Midori chuckled at him "It's not important. What matters is that you don't have to hide it anymore. I mean come on. If as a kid you felt like this, I can't imagine now."
Gohan nodded, his eyes still scanning the phone.
He had forgotten this letter. He thought that he threw it. He remembered the night he wrote it. Videl had been gone for almost six months and it was almost Christmas. They had previously decided to pass this Christmas all together this year but they couldn't. So, one day, while he was sitting with Goten who was writing his Santa letter, or more like drawing in it; he took a piece of paper and started writing. He remembered being torn between addressing it to Santa or Videl, so he mixed it up and poured his heart out.
"I don't know who I should address this to. I don't believe in Santa Claus but it's Christmas. And writing to Videl would mean that I can't see her, and I don't want to accept the fact that she's away. So, I'll address this to no one and will just write what I can't say out loud.
I never had any friends except my dad's and mom's. Even in the villages nearby. I was always different than the others so people didn't really try to talk to me.
Then, I met someone who made me understand that we are more than what we show. Someone who made me understand that who we are is more important than what we look like. That our actions don't always define us and it's okay to be different.
And I miss this friend so much. She was someone curious, smart, brave, adventurous and I could continue. Someone who always help get out the best in people. Who was reassuring and patient. Had a righteous heart.
You don't meet people like this every day. And when you do, you should count your blessings twice. Videl was one of these people.
I don't know if I'll ever send this letter but I don't think I will. This is why I am feeling okay with writing this. It was something I kept in my heart for a long time and I feel the need to tell someone about this. Maybe that's why I'm also addressing it to Santa. It's like addressing it to no one. Or maybe I am hoping he will let me see her one more time as a Christmas gift.
I never thought in my life that I'd be comfortable talking to crowds, or walk in malls without feeling like I don't belong. Going to amusement parks or concerts, play video games or eat in restaurants. I never thought I'd enjoy all of this.
Videl made me more. She made me a better friend, a better person. And I don't think I will ever be able to repay her.
I promised to protect her and watch over her and I intend on keeping this promise with my life. It's the least I can do after everything she did for me.
Videl, I don't know if I'll ever see you again but, if I do, I'll make sure to thank you for everything. For making my life better and for giving me a chance. My life's been a blast ever since I met her, and I wish I could properly thank her.
And Santa, if you exist and can grant me a wish, I want to see her at least one more time.
That's all I have to say. I miss my friend and I hope, in my heart, to see her again."
Gohan blushed as he read the letter and Midori smiled at him, waiting for him to talk. When he got over his embarrassment, he chuckled "I was like fourteen. I forgot about it. I remember my mother entering the room and I panicked so I tossed all the papers together in a book and I went to my room. Then it stayed there until today. Kami, that brings memories. But why are you showing me this?"
She smiled at him as she took her phone "You know why. It might help you feel less guilty. I know it helped get closure. But Gohan, I have to ask. Why?" He tilted his head at her and she chuckled "Why her and not me? What does she have that I don't?"
Gohan passed his hand through his hair and sighed. He was torn between telling the truth and hiding it. But Midori had the right to know. He owed her that at least.
She saw him debating with himself and he put her hand on his knee in a reassuring way "Gohan, it's okay. Don't torture yourself. You can't choose who you fall in love with."
The boy looked at her, a light smile on his face "I don't wanna lie to you. But I don't know if you'll accept the truth. I didn't actually choose her, my genes did. Look Midori, it's not that I don't trust you. It's just that I don't want to lose you. I'm afraid of how you'll see me after this. What I can tell you is that I am different, very different. And they are a lot of things that are out of my control. Choosing Videl was one of them. Trust me if things were different, I wouldn't have let them get this messed up. And I know I'm not answering your question and I'm sure you must hate me now but, I'm afraid of losing you once you'll know."
Midori nodded understandably at him.
She understood what he meant. Try telling someone that you're not fully human. Of course, they would react in a negative way. Gohan was afraid of her reaction and he had every right. She was surprised she didn't freak out at the news. Besides, he didn't lie. He told her his genes chose Videl; that wasn't entirely false.
She then smiled at him and got up "It was good seeing you Gohan. I'll see you tomorrow to present the bioethics project. See you."
She then hugged him and left him alone with his thoughts.
And to say he was surprised at her reaction was an understatement. Girls, seriously; what a mystery.
He soon followed her and he saw her wave at Videl before she left. The raven girl was equally shocked and looked at Gohan who merely shrugged. She then found him and tilted her head "What happened?"
He shook his head, his focus elsewhere "Beats me. I'll explain what happened on the way. Come on, your mom's waiting."
Midori, on the other hand, decapsulated her car and left towards her house. She had spent the night thinking about what Erasa told her, everything that happened, and the letter. And she decided to talk to Gohan and Videl and calm things down. She didn't want any more drama. She just wanted to go on with her life and forget everything. It was healthier than dwelling and crying on a lost relationship.
The night she spent with Erasa, her sister and her friend Sharpner reminded her of the simplicity of things. And sure, she wasn't very happy and she had cried over the break up; a lot. Even Ichika didn't know what to do to calm her last night when she found her. But then, she decided she didn't want to cry over this anymore. Otherwise she might just dig her own grave.
Besides, the look on Gohan and Videl's face was priceless. She had the last word in the end. She looked like the bigger person and avoided useless fights and drama. One could say she scored one hell of a three pointer.
Back at CC, Gohan and Videl entered the living room and saw Bulma and Hoshiko laughing was Bulma was telling her story "I swear his face was priceless. He looked up and saw the dinosaur literally blink at him. Next thing, he throws my dad's cat on him and hid in a tree. It was so funny. Oh, hey kids. Come on in."
Gohan chuckled as he sat next to his godmother "Telling her about the time Goten caught the triceraptor's tail?" Bulma nodded, a tear hanging and Gohan chuckled "Poor guy, he was like three or four maybe."
Hoshiko and Videl smiled at them while the mother started playing with her daughter's hair "Everything cleared at the restaurant?" Her daughter nodded and she looked at Gohan "We're gonna leave. Videl told me you have a project to present tomorrow? I'll let you rest."
Gohan nodded then Bulma whispered something in his ear as their guests were leaving.
He turned a shade of red before he almost chocked and coughed "Um, Videl?" The young girl turned to face him, smiling at him, and he blushed even more "I-I was wandering. Do you have something planned next Monday?"
The girl tilted her head at him "Next Monday? Jeez, I don't know. We might go visit my dad but I'm not sure yet. Why?"
The young boy felt he couldn't turn any redder and Bulma chuckled "Seriously. Four years old you weren't this shy. First of all, Hoshiko, if you don't plan on going back to Satan City, we'll be waiting for you, Videl and Erasa for Christmas Eve. We have a dinner here every night with Gohan's family and a few friends."
The mother smiled at her "Thank you. We'll see, I have to check with my husband. But thank you for inviting us."
Bulma smiled at her before she elbowed Gohan "So Gohan, isn't there something you wanna ask Videl?"
The boy glared at her "Thanks Bulma." He ignored her smirking face and looked back at Videl before he took a big inspiration "Umm. You remember when we were younger and my grandpa came to visit? And you discovered I was actually the price of the Ox-Kingdom?" Videl nodded, an encouraging smile tugged on her face "A-Actually, umm. Each year, my grandpa hosts a gala right before Christmas Eve. And um, this year, he was thinking of officially introducing me, even though I don't intend on taking his place. Ummm, Bulma, a little help?"
The three women laughed at him while Bulma winked at him "Sorry kiddo, you're on your own."
He mumbled something before he looked back at Videl who was smiling at him "Gohan, what's going on?"
He mustered a little bit of courage and scratched the back on his neck "I-I was wondering if… Would you like to come with me?"
Both teens flared up before Videl spoke "You're? Umm, you're asking me to be your date?"
Gohan nodded, face redder than a tomato, and Bulma chuckled as she patted him on his back, breaking the tension "See, it wasn't that hard. You made it sound like your fight with Cell was easier."
Both Hoshiko and Bulma laughed as both teens turned red.
Videl then smiled at him and held his hand "Yeah. I'd be honored to be your date for the gala."
Gohan blinked, his face redder "R-Really? Wow. That's great."
The raven girl chuckled at him "Yeah, it's not that big a deal. Friends always accompany each other to events. Especially one this big."
Gohan's heart panged in his chest at her words.
Friends? What did she mean by that? Were they only friends?
Only Bulma and Hoshiko weren't shocked by her choice of words since they were less socially awkward than Gohan and they understood. Gohan wasn't even single for forty-eight hours. Videl's choice of words made sense. Them dating now would result in a lot of problems neither wanted. And it would confirm the suspicions that they were together while Gohan had a girlfriend. Bulma will have to explain this to Gohan later on.
The Satan duo then greeted their hosts before they left them. And as soon as they left the company, Hoshiko lost no time teasing her daughter "So, a date? How you feeling?"
Videl blushed again "It's not a date. It's just a dinner invitation."
Her mother chuckled "Sure it is. Your face is gonna get stuck with this shade of red."
She then laughed when Videl hid her face between her palms. The daughter then chuckled and looked at her mother "Can I tell you something?" Hoshiko nodded at her and Videl's smile grew bigger "I love him."
Hoshiko blinked before she embraced her daughter, a smile tugged on her face "I'm happy for you monkey."
She truly was. Even though, right now, her mind was going to explode. How was she planning on telling her what she discovered? Telling her she wasn't very sure of this relationship because she was afraid for her wellbeing. Telling her she wouldn't fully give her blessing would break her daughter's heart. She'd have to think this trough.
And in CC, Bulma also lost no time teasing her godson "See, it wasn't that hard. You got yourself a date."
The boy blushed at her but couldn't stop smiling "Yeah. She's amazing."
Bulma winked at him "I know. Now, go to sleep. We'll talk tomorrow."
Gohan nodded and Bulma quickly left him to go and check on Vegeta, praying that his personal research was leading somewhere. Gohan then gathered his stuff from the lab and left towards his room.
But once he reached it and closed the door behind him, it hit him. He just asked Videl to be his date. Oh Dende, what should he do? Bulma was right, fighting Cell was easier than this. Now, he was full on panicking. He just asked the girl he loved on a date. And she said yes!
In a still undefined location, three voices were discussing the situation. Then, one of them stood up and spoke "The first motion of our plan worked perfectly. And we got everything we wanted. Now, let's move on to the second part. We are sure of our intel, but how do we keep them like this until the second part is completed?"
Another voice spoke "I'll take care of this. Just give me a little time. Me and 'Fielder' will take care of it."
The voice identified at Fielder nodded "Yes, don't worry. I have the perfect idea. Meanwhile, you should focus on finishing the second phase of our plan. The puzzle is starting to get clearer. If my plan works, we're all gonna keep an eye on them without their knowing. At this rate, Saiyaman will be long gone and no one will understand what hit him."
The first voice spoke again "Okay. We'll discuss this the next time. I have a plan to finish."
And with that, the voices nodded and left the room before each one started to bark commands to their seconds in command.
Their plan was getting in motion.