Release

Chapter 2: Realization.

Sunlight streamed through my partially open curtains. My eyes closed tighter and I gave a yawn. Suddenly, the events of yesterday hit me like Ojii-san Vegeta's punch.

A small whimper escaped my throat, but I shrugged it off, remembering my promise. I glanced at my clock seeing that it was seven. Yawning again I put on my robe and made my way to the restroom.

After taking care of early morning hygiene, I changed my clothes and headed for the breakfast table. When I walked into the kitchen, I noticed two special people sharing thoughts over Obaa-san's famous green tea.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and put a smile on my face as I approached Goten and Trunks. They turned and gave me wide grins as I sat down. Trunks's smile usually had the ability to make my heart skip several beats, however, today it had no effect at all. I guess that's what came with Goten's departure.

"So, how are you doing this morning, Panny?" Goten asked.

His eyes showed that he was concerned about me. So, I flashed my pearly whites.

"I'm fine, nice and rested."

He bought it.

Trunks took a sip from his mug. I noticed him studying my face from the corner of my eye. I was guessing that he knew about the whole problem. I just let him look, pretending I didn't notice. But I decided I was hungry, so I got my stack of pancakes and quickly devoured them.

I wiped my mouth and noted the two hybrids amused smirks. I assumed it was directed towards my huge appetite. They really had room to laugh.

"Hey guys," I said suddenly, "You wanna go swimming today?"

Trunks looked as if he was pondering the thought, "Yeah, but I have to go get my swim suit from home. I'll be back in a little bit."

And with, that he left.

Goten looked at me with tenderness, "Hey Panny…"

I smiled a little, "Hi Goten."

"You like your surprise?" he questioned.

I blinked. I had no idea what he was talking about.

He laughed, "I brought Trunks over to cheer you up. I know how much you like him."

He did know how much I liked him. Goten had found me one time, sobbing my eyes out, and he comforted me and eventually asked what was wrong. In one night, I told Goten everything. The pressure of not being a Super Saiya-jin. The fact that I would never see Grandpa again. How much older Trunks was and how I loved him. Since that night, we've been inseparable. We're known as the trio, Goten, Trunks and me. Always together.

"Thanks Goten, but even Trunks doesn't make me feel any better right now."

He sighed. Suddenly, I felt bad. Here was Goten, trying his dead-level best to make me happier, and I was being selfish.

"I'm fine Goten, I mean, I still talk to you everyday and I'm sure your visits will keep up."

His face brightened a bit, noticing that his efforts were not in vain.

"Good. Now lets go get dressed!"

He dashed off to his room; Chichi left it the same so it would be waiting for him the day he came back.

I walked slowly to my own room, thinking about my life. Goten, was my best friend, even closer that Trunks. He understood my problems and he always tried to do something to help them. However, I knew that the main reason Daddy decided to give Goten that choice. He knew it was time. Goten is, what, 31 years old? Dad knew it was time for him to get on with his life. The sad thing is, I knew it too. And as much as I wanted to keep Goten here, I knew I wouldn't. And I knew that he would eventually grow apart from me, and though we would always have that special connection, it'll never be the same.

"Pan! We're ready!"

Somehow, while in my thoughts, I had already dressed out. Oh well. It made it easier.

A/N: This story has a slow start, but its going in the direction I want. I'd like to the wonderful reviewers who are giving this story a chance!