Author's Note: See Chapter 1.
Disclaimer: See Chapter 1.
"" = Character talking ( ) = Character thinking [] = Character talking telepathically
-------Love and Destiny-------
Gohan awoke the next morning to the sight of the sunlight beaming through his window and to the sound of the birds chirping. He looked over at his alarm clock and almost died when he saw the time.
"9:30?!! Why didn't anyone wake me up?! Why didn't my alarm go off!?" he shouted to himself as he got out of bed and quickly got dressed. He ran out into the kitchen, almost tripping on the way in. When he got in there, he saw Chi-Chi, Videl, and Bulma at the kitchen table, talking to each other and drinking tea. They stopped and turned to the confused half-saiyan breed, smiling. Gohan looked dumbfounded.
"Am I missing something here? Why aren't you in school today, Videl?"
Chi-Chi smiled, answering his question for Videl, "Well Gohan, I got a phone call from your school early this morning. They told me that the school's power had completely gone out overnight and that it won't be 100% fixed until Friday. They dismissed all classes today, Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday, you'll go back to class and the prom is still going to happen as scheduled on Friday night."
"I see....that would explain why you didn't get me up. So, what's going on today?"
Bulma smiled, "Remember what I said about going shopping? Well that's what's going on today. We're taking Videl shopping for her prom dress and Krillin, Goku, and Vegeta are going with you to pick out your tux. Oh, and please tell me if Vegeta takes off from shopping with you. If he does, he'll regret it!" Bulma gave a malicious smile.
"Same goes for your father, Gohan," said Chi-Chi, "I don't think he's learned how to cook enough to fill his stomach!"
Gohan grinned at the situation that his father and Vegeta had been put in. "Do me a favor....I might need your help picking out a suit since dad and Vegeta don't really have that kind of taste in them." The women giggled and agreed. Goku and Vegeta never had the sense to pick out nice clothing.
"Bulma and I will help you after we've finished with Videl, son," said Chi- Chi, as she turned to Videl, "No peeking at Gohan's tux, Videl." Chi-Chi turned to look at her oldest son, "And no peeking at Videl's dress either!"
Chi-Chi and Bulma giggled while Gohan and Videl blushed at the thought. Gohan went back into his room and looked in his closet, thinking, (Now which one....dad's outfit or Piccolo's outfit?) Gohan chose his first mentor's outfit over his father's and pulled it out of the closet, laying it on his bed. He got undressed and changed into it, then checked himself out in the mirror.
"Man, I look just like him, except I'm not green," Gohan chuckled and made his way outside of his house, seeing his father and Vegeta lightly sparring. Gohan walked into the forest and began doing some stretches and warm-ups, (If I'm such a screw up, then why do I continue to train? Why don't I just quit?) Gohan pondered this thought as he finished loosening up and walked out of the forest. Seeing that the two full-blooded saiyans were taking a break, he walked up to them.
"Hey dad! Hey Vegeta!" yelled Gohan.
"Hey Gohan!" answered Goku.
Vegeta just gave a little smirk, "Kakarot and I came up with a plan that will benefit the three of us, kid. We'll take off to do a little sparring over the mall and then when you finish getting your suit, raise your power level and we'll be right there. The women will never know that we were gone."
"Problem Vegeta....mom and Bulma already told me to tell them if you or dad took off," replied Gohan.
"Then lie to them!" yelled Vegeta.
"I also told them to help me pick out the suit for my prom. I don't think I could lie very well if you're not there when they are. Sorry Vegeta, but if I have to suffer through shopping, then you will too."
Goku sighed, "Guess we're stuck shopping with Gohan. Cheer up, Vegeta. It wasn't a bad idea."
"Damn it....thanks a lot!" said Vegeta sarcastically, "I'm just about on the verge of either kicking your ass or kicking your son's!"
Gohan laughed, "Keep dreaming, Vegeta. You couldn't beat my dad, because he's the strongest fighter in the universe. I'm the 2nd strongest so how could the 3rd strongest, that's you, kick my ass?"
Goku fell over and laughed hysterically while veins popped out of Vegeta's forehead, "WHAT WAS THAT?! Are you challenging me, boy?!"
Gohan was about to reply when he heard his mom.
"Gohan! Goku! Vegeta! Get dressed and get ready to go shopping!" yelled Chi- Chi.
Gohan smirked, "Seeya Vegeta!" Gohan ran back inside the house, Goku following behind.
"Shit....I hate shopping....it's a waste of time and energy. Women....they know my weakness, dammit!" roared Vegeta as he walked back into the house too.
***
At the mall, Bulma and Chi-Chi waited while Videl tried on another dress. The two waited for about two minutes before Videl pulled the curtain. The other two women shook their heads and Videl sighed.
"I told you this wasn't going to be the one," said Videl as she pulled the curtain again, took off the dress, and handed it out through the cover to Chi-Chi. Videl came back out, fully clothed again, "I'm never going find a dress at this rate."
"Cheer up, Videl. We just need to find a dress that you like and that you would look beautiful in," said Bulma, "You can't go out in a dress that doesn't define your features very well."
"I know....I want to look really good for Gohan, but none of these dresses seem to work for me," said Videl, sadly. Videl then spotted a dress that she couldn't take her eyes off of. Bulma saw what she was looking at and walked over to it, taking it off the hanger. She walked back over to Videl and handed it to her.
"Thank you, Bulma! Let's see how this one does!" said Videl, excitedly as she went back behind the curtain. A few minutes later, she opened the curtain back up and Bulma and Chi-Chi's eyes lit up.
"Oh Videl....you look gorgeous!!" exclaimed Chi-Chi.
"I agree! It looks really good on you!" cheered Bulma.
Videl blushed and looked at herself in the mirror. She smiled in satisfaction and looked at her sides, her front, and her back. Videl twirled around twice and walked back in behind the curtain. She came back out in her casual clothes, holding the dress. Then she looked at the price tag and became very shocked.
"There's no way I can afford this," said Videl.
"Videl....who said you were buying your own dress?" asked Bulma. Videl looked up at Bulma in shock.
"You mean you were gonna pay for my dress from the start?!"
"Well, of course! We also wanted to go because we know how much you care for Gohan."
Videl looked down, "If only he felt the same way about me...."
Chi-Chi put a hand on Videl's shoulder, "He does....he's just afraid that if he told you, you would reject him. We can't tell him you won't, though, because that would ruin the magic between you two. Just wait patiently for a little bit longer. You've already received my approval of becoming my future daughter-in-law. I know you'll keep my son on his toes."
Videl looked up at Chi-Chi with tears in her eyes and Chi-Chi gave her a wink and a smile. Videl hugged her and Chi-Chi returned the embrace. "Thank you....mom...." whispered Videl. Chi-Chi let her go and wiped Videl's tears away.
"No problem Videl...." said Chi-Chi, smiling at the comment of being called MOM by Videl. Bulma walked away for a couple of minutes, then walked back to the two.
"Okay, let's go," said Bulma, "I've already paid for the dress."
"Thank you very much, Bulma," said Videl.
"Now all we have to do is find some shoes and jewelry to match you and you'll be set!"
Videl smiled....she was happy of the fact that Gohan's parents and friends were trying to get her and Gohan together.
***
"Can we eat yet? I'm starving!" said Goku.
"Damn it, for the 52nd time, Kakarot, NO!" roared Vegeta, "I got stuck in this mess because your woman asked mine to go, and my woman forced me to go!"
"No sex and no sleeping on a bed is nothing compared to being hungry for a full week!"
Vegeta gritted his teeth and showed signs of his impatience and anger, "Those women....they always take too long to shop!"
"I wonder why we were forced to come along....it's not like we can do anything."
Vegeta looked at Goku and raised a brow, "Interesting point....why ARE we here if we're here without a reason? Something's fishy."
"But we haven't eaten any fish today. I sure could go for some right now...."
"IS THAT ALL YOU CAN THINK ABOUT!? WHAT YOU CAN FILL YOUR STOMACH WITH!? Honestly....this is driving me crazy! Bulma's going to pay up big time, tonight!"
"That's only if you don't leave...."
"Don't remind me!"
The two stopped speaking when they saw Gohan and Krillin walking out of the shoe store. Krillin was carrying a box under his arm and Gohan was....well....carrying nothing. Vegeta stood from the bench where he was sitting.
"It's about time! Now let's go find the girls and get out of here!" commanded Vegeta.
"We can't go....I still have to pick out my suit, and we need my mom and Bulma here to help me out with that," answered Gohan.
Vegeta smacked himself in the head, "You've got to be kidding me! I thought we were done here!"
"Sorry....but you are right about one thing. We need to find mom, Videl, and Bulma now."
"By the way....do you have any idea why we're tagging along other than that we were forced to?!"
Gohan thought for a moment, "Maybe they needed someone to chaperone me and make sure I didn't sneak a peek at Videl's dress?"
"That kinda makes sense," said Goku.
"Then why am I here?! It only takes one person to keep you from doing that!" yelled Vegeta.
"Well...." began Goku, "Chi-Chi thought I could use a little company and Bulma suggested that you should come since Krillin would be helping Gohan."
"WHAT?!! You mean to tell me that you knew why I was here all this time?!"
"Yeah," Goku chuckled nervously.
"Then....why are YOU here?"
"Well....Chi-Chi wanted to take me away from my training for a little bit and watch my son grow up. See him prepare for his first prom."
Vegeta nearly ripped his hair out, "So I'm stuck here, chaperoning with a clown, his son, and no-nose?! ARGH!!!" Vegeta punched the mall floor, causing the whole building to shake a little.
***
The three ladies felt the minor vibration in the shoe store.
"Sounds like someone is getting impatient," said Videl, "And I'm betting it's not Gohan."
"It's Vegeta," said Bulma as she giggled, "I always like to torture him by forcing him to shop....the one thing he hates more than anything."
Videl giggled, "It sounds like both of you ladies have ways of keeping your husbands in line."
"For Vegeta, it's for his own good," started Bulma, "Sometimes, his ego gets a little out of control or he gets mad....so all I have to do is force him to shop, then we have a romantic night that same day, and the next morning we've made up."
"Goku is more of a sweetheart....I just force him to do things either for Gohan's sake or just to tease him," said Chi-Chi, "I don't mind cooking a lot for him....he's always earned his keep. He may be the strongest man, but he's also the sweetest."
"I guess it's safe to say it runs in the family," said Videl. Chi-Chi and Bulma both nodded. Then they walked out of the shoe store, Videl carrying her box with the slippers in them, "Did you already hide my dress, Bulma?"
"Yep....it's safe. Don't worry about it," answered Bulma. The three women walked while chatting more, heading towards the boys.
Gohan spotted the women and waved to them. They waved back at him and looked at the situation. Vegeta was obviously ready to burst a blood vessel and Goku looked ready to faint and die of starvation. Krillin was just grinning at the whole situation and Gohan was doing that, plus blushing.
"Ok Gohan....we're ready to help you with your suit," said Chi-Chi.
"It's about time you got here!" roared Vegeta, "What is it with you women taking so long with shopping anyway?!"
"Uh....what's in the box, Videl?" asked Krillin.
"Donuts! She's got donuts in that box!" exclaimed Goku.
"You see what I've had to put up with for the past hour?!" yelled Vegeta, "Kakarot's whining and complaining is enough to drive any man into insanity! I, myself, am almost at the breaking point!"
"It's my shoes, Goku," stated Videl.
"And you can put up with Goku for a little while longer until we finish with Gohan, Vegeta," said Bulma.
Vegeta crossed his arms and turned his head away, giving a reluctant growl. The women laughed as the gang made way for the tuxedo department. When they arrived, Videl, Goku, and Vegeta went to mall exit and waited in the car while the others went into the shop. It didn't take long for Gohan to find a nice dark blue tuxedo outfit that he liked. He didn't know, though, that it was the same color as Videl's dress and the two women were just passing satisfied and funny glances at each other. Bulma paid for the tuxedo and she and the others walked out of the store and out of the mall.
Everybody got into the car and Bulma drove them out of the parking lot and onto the road. Goku just HAD to ask....
"Can we eat now?" asked Goku.
"Bulma....pull over so I can beat the shit out of him....then he'll HOPEFULLY shut up about food for at least 5 damn minutes!!" commanded Vegeta. Bulma smiled and kept on driving while Goku's mouth kept watering at the thought of food. Vegeta took one glance behind his seat to see the look on Goku's face.
"Disgusting pig," muttered Vegeta, as he turned his attention back to the road.
"You eat almost as much as he does," said Bulma.
"Well I keep my hunger under control....unlike Kakarot, who seems to think food is the most important thing in the world."
"Maybe to you, that's what it seems....but Goku is a little more caring about his family than his need for food."
Videl sat in the back seat with Chi-Chi and Krillin, while Gohan sat next to his father in the middle. Gohan was in deep thought....looking like he was in his depressed state once more. Videl's expression turned into one full of worry, (He looks almost as bad as when he was having his nightmare. I intend to find out what's going on with him soon enough....)
Gohan turned his head over to his father and his depressed look turned into a smile, "C'mon dad....it can't be THAT bad." Just as Gohan said that, the car had arrived back at the Son household. Chi-Chi went up to the house and opened the door for the others. Gohan carried his bags into his room while Bulma and Chi-Chi went straight into the kitchen. Gohan walked back outside in his Piccolo gi to find Videl and Krillin lightly sparring with each other. Vegeta walked up to Gohan and smirked evilly.
"You and I have some unfinished business, kid. I'd like to see you try to kick my ass," said Vegeta confidently.
Videl and Krillin stopped their spar so they could spectate the upcoming one between Gohan and Vegeta. Videl watched on in worry.
"Gohan's gonna beat Vegeta hands down....he's stronger than him," said Krillin.
(I wish I could say the same thing....but something's been bothering Gohan,) thought Videl, (and it seems to be bothering him EVEN now.)
Vegeta gave a scream and powered up to his Super Saiyan 2 level, the electricity crackling around his body. Gohan noticed something missing inside of him....he wasn't as strong as he was when he fought Buu....his power that was awakened by the Old Kai....where was it?
(Shit....) thought Gohan. Vegeta made the first move and punched Gohan hard in the face, sending Gohan flying through several trees before going halfway into one that would stop his flight. Gohan coughed up some blood and fell to the ground, on his knees. Vegeta's face turned into a look of concern as he powered down to his normal state. He, Krillin, Videl, and Goku, ran over to the aid of Gohan.
When they got there, Gohan was found lying on the ground. A small pool of blood had formed where his mouth was. Goku quickly pulled out a senzu bean and fed it to Gohan. Gohan ate the bean and swallowed it. When his energy was restored and his injuries had vanished, he stood up and looked at Vegeta.
"I guess....you win," said Gohan.
"Are you okay? I didn't realize my punch was going to knock you THAT far," said Vegeta.
"I'll be fine....excuse me...." Gohan took off into the air before anyone could say anything.
"I'm going after him," said Videl. Just as Videl floated inches above the ground, Goku grabbed her wrist and shook his head.
"No....let him be....he needs to sort this out himself," said Goku.
"But...."
"I understand how you feel towards him, but he'll only fly even further away if you follow him."
"Goku's right, Videl," said Krillin, "Let's just go inside and wait for him....he'll come back when he's ready to eat."
Videl gave a sad smile and nodded, "Okay."
***
Gohan floated high above his house, watching the other go inside. He was high enough to where no one could see him from the ground. He floated down to the top of his house and landed on it softly. Then, he sat in an Indian style position and looked up towards the sky.
"I lost to Vegeta...." Gohan said to himself, "I've also lost to Videl. What good am I? If I lost to someone who can't even fire ki blasts, then how can I win against another fighter who's power was like the evil Buu's?"
Gohan sighed and heard a loud rumble. He laughed a little and rubbed his stomach, "Guess it's chow time." Gohan jumped from the roof of his house and landed softly on the ground. He opened the front door and walked into the house, immediately noticing all the food and guests in the kitchen. Gohan took a seat next to Videl and began inhaling any food he could get his hands on.
Videl just stared at him in shock, (One minute he's down, the next he's really happy....I'll never understand how he can eat so much food.)
"You must have a fast metabolism Gohan....I wonder how you get all of that food out of your system," said Videl.
Gohan took a minute to stop eating and to answer her question, "Well, I guess like any other human. Of course, I eat all the extra food so I have a lot of energy for my training and fighting. I kinda sweat out most of my food and burn the energy really fast. Any leftover food....well....you know where it goes from there."
"Sorry I asked," said Videl with a disgusted look. Everyone else at the table laughed as they continued to eat. Ten minutes later, everyone stopped and was pretty much full.
"Ah! Great cooking Chi-Chi! That was really good!" exclaimed Goku. Chi-Chi smiled, knowing that she had satisfied her husband's intense hunger for food.
"Thank Kami....now his bitching will stop for the rest of the day," muttered Vegeta. Goku decided to play a little joke.
"Awwwwwww....is that all the food?! I'm still hungry!" whined Goku. Vegeta's eyes widened and veins popped out all over his head. His eyes nearly turned red with anger as he got up. The Saiyan Prince walked over to Goku and lifted him up by his vest with his right hand while holding his clenched left hand back....ready to punch him.
"KAKAROT!! YOU WILL CEASE YOUR FUCKING COMPLAINING AND WHINING! NOW!!"
Goku nervously chuckled and held his hands out, "Easy Vegeta! Just kidding! Just kidding!"
"You'd better be, or I'll punch your stomach so hard that you'll never be able to eat again!" Vegeta let go of Goku and walked back over to the table. Goku gave a relieved sigh and looked over to Gohan.
"So....three more days until the prom, eh Gohan?" asked Goku. Gohan gave a simple nod to his father.
Goku spoke again, "So....what are you going to do after the prom?"
"W....What do you mean AFTER the prom?" asked Gohan.
"Are you going to take Videl out somewhere to eat or to a movie or something?"
"Gee....I never gave it that much thought. Of course, if I did plan for something like that I would try to keep it a surprise."
"So, how are you going to arrive and leave the prom, Gohan?" asked Bulma.
"I didn't think about that either, Bulma," said Gohan.
"Jeez....you didn't think this through, did you? Well can't you just drive Videl to the prom?"
"Oy....how can I drive her to the prom if I don't even have a driver's license or a car?"
Everyone decided to think about the solution to this situation. As smart as Gohan was, everyone knew that even he could not learn how to drive in three days....let alone pass the driver's exam either. As usual, it had to be Bulma who came up with the solution.
"I have a great idea! How about I loan you my limousine, Gohan?" suggested Bulma.
"That's perfect, Bulma! Now we just need a chauffeur to drive us," answered Gohan.
"How about me or Mr. Satan?" asked Goku.
"NO!!" replied everyone else. Goku slouched down in his chair and smiled. He already knew the answer to that question before everyone shouted their answer.
"Well, we shouldn't let a family member drive....sorry Chi-Chi," said Videl.
"It's okay, Videl," said Chi-Chi.
"We'll also eliminate Vegeta, because he can't drive either and I doubt you'd want someone like him ruining your fun," said Bulma.
"I can speak for myself, woman!" roared Vegeta. Bulma just rolled her eyes and sighed.
"We're down to three options....me, #18, and Krillin," said Bulma.
"Sorry Bulma, but 18 and I have plans that evening with our daughter. You know....family time," said Krillin.
"Well then, it's settled! I'll drive you two from place to place! You just tell me where to go and I'll drive you both there!" cheered Bulma.
"Thank you very much, Bulma," said Videl.
"I'd do anything for Gohan and a friend, Videl. You can count on me....and I promise not to interrupt your fun."
"Now that that's settled, can we go home now?!" yelled Vegeta.
"Okay, okay....it IS getting kind of late. We'll be on our way," said Bulma.
"Thanks for helping me out with mine and Gohan's shopping, you two," said Videl.
"As if I had a choice!" exclaimed Vegeta.
"So I heard," Videl gave a little giggle and smirk.
"What does she mean, dad?" asked Trunks, tugging on his father's pant leg.
"You'll understand when you're older, son," answered Bulma.
"Once again....I CAN speak for myself!" roared Vegeta as he exited the house. Bulma and Trunks followed, waving at their friends and then flying off....Vegeta carrying Bulma home. After they were out of sight, Videl stretched and yawned.
"Wow....all that shopping must have really worn me out. I guess I'll head back to my house too," said Videl.
"Why don't you spend the night here tonight, Videl? I already cleaned up the guest room for you," said Chi-Chi.
"Thank you....I'll have to call my dad and check to see if it's okay," Videl walked away to the phone, dialing her dad's number while Krillin decided to say bye to the Son household and he headed off for his home as well. Goten went upstairs to his room and closed the door....he was ready for his shut eye. Gohan was left at the table with his father and his mother.
"Now Gohan, you and Videl better not do anything naughty tonight? Ya hear?" said Chi-Chi. Gohan's entire head blushed at the request his mom just made.
"ARE YOU INSANE?!! WHAT MAKES YOU THINK I'D DO SUCH A THING?!!" yelled Gohan.
"Son Gohan!! I will not tolerate yelling in this house, young man! Do you understand?!" roared Chi-Chi.
"Then you won't be able to tolerate yourself, because you're yelling right back! You didn't have to say anything that would prevent me and Videl from doing anything! We're just friends, okay?!"
"Young man, I just told you not to yell in this--"
"Just shut up!!"
"Gohan!" yelled Goku, as he grabbed his eldest son by his wrist. His eyes met his son's, both of them full of fire. "Fighting with your mother about studying when you were a child was one thing, but this is entirely different. Now calm yourself down!"
"You just think that because you're the strongest in the universe means you can command whoever you want to do what you want them to do?!" yelled Gohan.
Gohan yanked his wrist away from his father's grip and walked into his room slamming the door shut, not hard enough to break it, and locked his door. Videl had just walked back downstairs when she had heard all the yelling and arguing that had just commenced.
"What happened?" asked Videl.
Chi-Chi's watery eyes spilled tears down her cheeks as she walked past Videl and upstairs into her own room. Goku sighed.
"I've never seen Gohan and his mother argue like that before," said Goku.
"This has to stop....Gohan's emotional problems have gotten out of hand, Goku," said Videl.
"I agree....but I don't know what to do about him. It's like he's a whole different person sometimes."
Goku's eyes quickly flashed to Gohan's room and his expression turned from worry to serious. He looked at Videl.
"He's taken off....can I ask you to look after Chi-Chi?" asked Goku.
Videl nodded, "Sure thing. Be careful." Videl walked upstairs to Gohan's parents' bedroom while Goku put two fingers to his forehead and searched for his son's ki. Once he locked on to it, he disappeared in a couple of seconds.
Videl opened the door and was saddened by the sight of Chi-Chi quietly sobbing. Videl walked over to her and rested her hand on Chi-Chi's back. Chi-Chi looked up at Videl and looked away.
"You see me in such an embarrassing state, Videl," said Chi-Chi.
"Chi-Chi, it's ok. I know that Gohan is going through some problems and that you can't tolerate it much more, but I'm here for both of you. Remember that, ok?" Videl pulled Chi-Chi into a soft hug as Chi-Chi quietly cried on Videl's shoulder.
***
Gohan continued to fly further and further away from his house. He stopped dead in his tracks as soon as his father appeared before him. Gohan looked at the person in front of him, not only as his father, but as the strongest warrior in the universe too.
"Son, I don't know how much longer this can go on. You need to talk to someone about this or at least get some help," pleaded Goku.
"You're right dad....but no psychologist or therapist on Earth could help me with this," said Gohan.
"Maybe being anxious is also adding to your problems?" asked Goku.
"I....I just don't know. It's like I don't even know what is wrong with me sometimes. Every time I think I've got the answer to what my problem is, it's not the correct answer and I feel worse afterwards," Gohan turned to the direction of where his house was. Goku put a hand on his shoulder.
"Do you want to go back, Gohan?"
"Yeah....I do...."
Goku nodded and put two fingers to his forehead. When he locked on Videl's energy, he used his Instant Transmission to teleport himself and Gohan back to their house. They arrived in the bedroom where Videl was softly hugging Chi-Chi. Chi-Chi looked up at Gohan and was shocked to see tears in Gohan's eyes.
Gohan choked up and the words barely escaped his mouth, "Mom....I'm so sorry...." said Gohan.
Mother and son embraced each other and cried on each other's shoulders, hugging each other tight. Videl stood up smiling and Goku put a hand on Videl's shoulder, smiling at the sight as well.
(Still....), thought Videl, (Though they're making up now, there's a chance this won't be the last time it will happen....maybe not even to Chi-Chi, but to someone else. I just hope he doesn't argue with me like he did with his mom. The way the aftermath turned out, I'd be heartbroken.)
***************************************************************************
Phew! Done with Chapter 2....and it took me even longer to write than Chapter 1! Nearly three weeks! Hopefully, though, I can start writing these chapters faster when I get my ass in gear. Anyway, Chapter 3 will be coming soon! Dooooooon't miss it!
Disclaimer: See Chapter 1.
"" = Character talking ( ) = Character thinking [] = Character talking telepathically
-------Love and Destiny-------
Gohan awoke the next morning to the sight of the sunlight beaming through his window and to the sound of the birds chirping. He looked over at his alarm clock and almost died when he saw the time.
"9:30?!! Why didn't anyone wake me up?! Why didn't my alarm go off!?" he shouted to himself as he got out of bed and quickly got dressed. He ran out into the kitchen, almost tripping on the way in. When he got in there, he saw Chi-Chi, Videl, and Bulma at the kitchen table, talking to each other and drinking tea. They stopped and turned to the confused half-saiyan breed, smiling. Gohan looked dumbfounded.
"Am I missing something here? Why aren't you in school today, Videl?"
Chi-Chi smiled, answering his question for Videl, "Well Gohan, I got a phone call from your school early this morning. They told me that the school's power had completely gone out overnight and that it won't be 100% fixed until Friday. They dismissed all classes today, Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday, you'll go back to class and the prom is still going to happen as scheduled on Friday night."
"I see....that would explain why you didn't get me up. So, what's going on today?"
Bulma smiled, "Remember what I said about going shopping? Well that's what's going on today. We're taking Videl shopping for her prom dress and Krillin, Goku, and Vegeta are going with you to pick out your tux. Oh, and please tell me if Vegeta takes off from shopping with you. If he does, he'll regret it!" Bulma gave a malicious smile.
"Same goes for your father, Gohan," said Chi-Chi, "I don't think he's learned how to cook enough to fill his stomach!"
Gohan grinned at the situation that his father and Vegeta had been put in. "Do me a favor....I might need your help picking out a suit since dad and Vegeta don't really have that kind of taste in them." The women giggled and agreed. Goku and Vegeta never had the sense to pick out nice clothing.
"Bulma and I will help you after we've finished with Videl, son," said Chi- Chi, as she turned to Videl, "No peeking at Gohan's tux, Videl." Chi-Chi turned to look at her oldest son, "And no peeking at Videl's dress either!"
Chi-Chi and Bulma giggled while Gohan and Videl blushed at the thought. Gohan went back into his room and looked in his closet, thinking, (Now which one....dad's outfit or Piccolo's outfit?) Gohan chose his first mentor's outfit over his father's and pulled it out of the closet, laying it on his bed. He got undressed and changed into it, then checked himself out in the mirror.
"Man, I look just like him, except I'm not green," Gohan chuckled and made his way outside of his house, seeing his father and Vegeta lightly sparring. Gohan walked into the forest and began doing some stretches and warm-ups, (If I'm such a screw up, then why do I continue to train? Why don't I just quit?) Gohan pondered this thought as he finished loosening up and walked out of the forest. Seeing that the two full-blooded saiyans were taking a break, he walked up to them.
"Hey dad! Hey Vegeta!" yelled Gohan.
"Hey Gohan!" answered Goku.
Vegeta just gave a little smirk, "Kakarot and I came up with a plan that will benefit the three of us, kid. We'll take off to do a little sparring over the mall and then when you finish getting your suit, raise your power level and we'll be right there. The women will never know that we were gone."
"Problem Vegeta....mom and Bulma already told me to tell them if you or dad took off," replied Gohan.
"Then lie to them!" yelled Vegeta.
"I also told them to help me pick out the suit for my prom. I don't think I could lie very well if you're not there when they are. Sorry Vegeta, but if I have to suffer through shopping, then you will too."
Goku sighed, "Guess we're stuck shopping with Gohan. Cheer up, Vegeta. It wasn't a bad idea."
"Damn it....thanks a lot!" said Vegeta sarcastically, "I'm just about on the verge of either kicking your ass or kicking your son's!"
Gohan laughed, "Keep dreaming, Vegeta. You couldn't beat my dad, because he's the strongest fighter in the universe. I'm the 2nd strongest so how could the 3rd strongest, that's you, kick my ass?"
Goku fell over and laughed hysterically while veins popped out of Vegeta's forehead, "WHAT WAS THAT?! Are you challenging me, boy?!"
Gohan was about to reply when he heard his mom.
"Gohan! Goku! Vegeta! Get dressed and get ready to go shopping!" yelled Chi- Chi.
Gohan smirked, "Seeya Vegeta!" Gohan ran back inside the house, Goku following behind.
"Shit....I hate shopping....it's a waste of time and energy. Women....they know my weakness, dammit!" roared Vegeta as he walked back into the house too.
***
At the mall, Bulma and Chi-Chi waited while Videl tried on another dress. The two waited for about two minutes before Videl pulled the curtain. The other two women shook their heads and Videl sighed.
"I told you this wasn't going to be the one," said Videl as she pulled the curtain again, took off the dress, and handed it out through the cover to Chi-Chi. Videl came back out, fully clothed again, "I'm never going find a dress at this rate."
"Cheer up, Videl. We just need to find a dress that you like and that you would look beautiful in," said Bulma, "You can't go out in a dress that doesn't define your features very well."
"I know....I want to look really good for Gohan, but none of these dresses seem to work for me," said Videl, sadly. Videl then spotted a dress that she couldn't take her eyes off of. Bulma saw what she was looking at and walked over to it, taking it off the hanger. She walked back over to Videl and handed it to her.
"Thank you, Bulma! Let's see how this one does!" said Videl, excitedly as she went back behind the curtain. A few minutes later, she opened the curtain back up and Bulma and Chi-Chi's eyes lit up.
"Oh Videl....you look gorgeous!!" exclaimed Chi-Chi.
"I agree! It looks really good on you!" cheered Bulma.
Videl blushed and looked at herself in the mirror. She smiled in satisfaction and looked at her sides, her front, and her back. Videl twirled around twice and walked back in behind the curtain. She came back out in her casual clothes, holding the dress. Then she looked at the price tag and became very shocked.
"There's no way I can afford this," said Videl.
"Videl....who said you were buying your own dress?" asked Bulma. Videl looked up at Bulma in shock.
"You mean you were gonna pay for my dress from the start?!"
"Well, of course! We also wanted to go because we know how much you care for Gohan."
Videl looked down, "If only he felt the same way about me...."
Chi-Chi put a hand on Videl's shoulder, "He does....he's just afraid that if he told you, you would reject him. We can't tell him you won't, though, because that would ruin the magic between you two. Just wait patiently for a little bit longer. You've already received my approval of becoming my future daughter-in-law. I know you'll keep my son on his toes."
Videl looked up at Chi-Chi with tears in her eyes and Chi-Chi gave her a wink and a smile. Videl hugged her and Chi-Chi returned the embrace. "Thank you....mom...." whispered Videl. Chi-Chi let her go and wiped Videl's tears away.
"No problem Videl...." said Chi-Chi, smiling at the comment of being called MOM by Videl. Bulma walked away for a couple of minutes, then walked back to the two.
"Okay, let's go," said Bulma, "I've already paid for the dress."
"Thank you very much, Bulma," said Videl.
"Now all we have to do is find some shoes and jewelry to match you and you'll be set!"
Videl smiled....she was happy of the fact that Gohan's parents and friends were trying to get her and Gohan together.
***
"Can we eat yet? I'm starving!" said Goku.
"Damn it, for the 52nd time, Kakarot, NO!" roared Vegeta, "I got stuck in this mess because your woman asked mine to go, and my woman forced me to go!"
"No sex and no sleeping on a bed is nothing compared to being hungry for a full week!"
Vegeta gritted his teeth and showed signs of his impatience and anger, "Those women....they always take too long to shop!"
"I wonder why we were forced to come along....it's not like we can do anything."
Vegeta looked at Goku and raised a brow, "Interesting point....why ARE we here if we're here without a reason? Something's fishy."
"But we haven't eaten any fish today. I sure could go for some right now...."
"IS THAT ALL YOU CAN THINK ABOUT!? WHAT YOU CAN FILL YOUR STOMACH WITH!? Honestly....this is driving me crazy! Bulma's going to pay up big time, tonight!"
"That's only if you don't leave...."
"Don't remind me!"
The two stopped speaking when they saw Gohan and Krillin walking out of the shoe store. Krillin was carrying a box under his arm and Gohan was....well....carrying nothing. Vegeta stood from the bench where he was sitting.
"It's about time! Now let's go find the girls and get out of here!" commanded Vegeta.
"We can't go....I still have to pick out my suit, and we need my mom and Bulma here to help me out with that," answered Gohan.
Vegeta smacked himself in the head, "You've got to be kidding me! I thought we were done here!"
"Sorry....but you are right about one thing. We need to find mom, Videl, and Bulma now."
"By the way....do you have any idea why we're tagging along other than that we were forced to?!"
Gohan thought for a moment, "Maybe they needed someone to chaperone me and make sure I didn't sneak a peek at Videl's dress?"
"That kinda makes sense," said Goku.
"Then why am I here?! It only takes one person to keep you from doing that!" yelled Vegeta.
"Well...." began Goku, "Chi-Chi thought I could use a little company and Bulma suggested that you should come since Krillin would be helping Gohan."
"WHAT?!! You mean to tell me that you knew why I was here all this time?!"
"Yeah," Goku chuckled nervously.
"Then....why are YOU here?"
"Well....Chi-Chi wanted to take me away from my training for a little bit and watch my son grow up. See him prepare for his first prom."
Vegeta nearly ripped his hair out, "So I'm stuck here, chaperoning with a clown, his son, and no-nose?! ARGH!!!" Vegeta punched the mall floor, causing the whole building to shake a little.
***
The three ladies felt the minor vibration in the shoe store.
"Sounds like someone is getting impatient," said Videl, "And I'm betting it's not Gohan."
"It's Vegeta," said Bulma as she giggled, "I always like to torture him by forcing him to shop....the one thing he hates more than anything."
Videl giggled, "It sounds like both of you ladies have ways of keeping your husbands in line."
"For Vegeta, it's for his own good," started Bulma, "Sometimes, his ego gets a little out of control or he gets mad....so all I have to do is force him to shop, then we have a romantic night that same day, and the next morning we've made up."
"Goku is more of a sweetheart....I just force him to do things either for Gohan's sake or just to tease him," said Chi-Chi, "I don't mind cooking a lot for him....he's always earned his keep. He may be the strongest man, but he's also the sweetest."
"I guess it's safe to say it runs in the family," said Videl. Chi-Chi and Bulma both nodded. Then they walked out of the shoe store, Videl carrying her box with the slippers in them, "Did you already hide my dress, Bulma?"
"Yep....it's safe. Don't worry about it," answered Bulma. The three women walked while chatting more, heading towards the boys.
Gohan spotted the women and waved to them. They waved back at him and looked at the situation. Vegeta was obviously ready to burst a blood vessel and Goku looked ready to faint and die of starvation. Krillin was just grinning at the whole situation and Gohan was doing that, plus blushing.
"Ok Gohan....we're ready to help you with your suit," said Chi-Chi.
"It's about time you got here!" roared Vegeta, "What is it with you women taking so long with shopping anyway?!"
"Uh....what's in the box, Videl?" asked Krillin.
"Donuts! She's got donuts in that box!" exclaimed Goku.
"You see what I've had to put up with for the past hour?!" yelled Vegeta, "Kakarot's whining and complaining is enough to drive any man into insanity! I, myself, am almost at the breaking point!"
"It's my shoes, Goku," stated Videl.
"And you can put up with Goku for a little while longer until we finish with Gohan, Vegeta," said Bulma.
Vegeta crossed his arms and turned his head away, giving a reluctant growl. The women laughed as the gang made way for the tuxedo department. When they arrived, Videl, Goku, and Vegeta went to mall exit and waited in the car while the others went into the shop. It didn't take long for Gohan to find a nice dark blue tuxedo outfit that he liked. He didn't know, though, that it was the same color as Videl's dress and the two women were just passing satisfied and funny glances at each other. Bulma paid for the tuxedo and she and the others walked out of the store and out of the mall.
Everybody got into the car and Bulma drove them out of the parking lot and onto the road. Goku just HAD to ask....
"Can we eat now?" asked Goku.
"Bulma....pull over so I can beat the shit out of him....then he'll HOPEFULLY shut up about food for at least 5 damn minutes!!" commanded Vegeta. Bulma smiled and kept on driving while Goku's mouth kept watering at the thought of food. Vegeta took one glance behind his seat to see the look on Goku's face.
"Disgusting pig," muttered Vegeta, as he turned his attention back to the road.
"You eat almost as much as he does," said Bulma.
"Well I keep my hunger under control....unlike Kakarot, who seems to think food is the most important thing in the world."
"Maybe to you, that's what it seems....but Goku is a little more caring about his family than his need for food."
Videl sat in the back seat with Chi-Chi and Krillin, while Gohan sat next to his father in the middle. Gohan was in deep thought....looking like he was in his depressed state once more. Videl's expression turned into one full of worry, (He looks almost as bad as when he was having his nightmare. I intend to find out what's going on with him soon enough....)
Gohan turned his head over to his father and his depressed look turned into a smile, "C'mon dad....it can't be THAT bad." Just as Gohan said that, the car had arrived back at the Son household. Chi-Chi went up to the house and opened the door for the others. Gohan carried his bags into his room while Bulma and Chi-Chi went straight into the kitchen. Gohan walked back outside in his Piccolo gi to find Videl and Krillin lightly sparring with each other. Vegeta walked up to Gohan and smirked evilly.
"You and I have some unfinished business, kid. I'd like to see you try to kick my ass," said Vegeta confidently.
Videl and Krillin stopped their spar so they could spectate the upcoming one between Gohan and Vegeta. Videl watched on in worry.
"Gohan's gonna beat Vegeta hands down....he's stronger than him," said Krillin.
(I wish I could say the same thing....but something's been bothering Gohan,) thought Videl, (and it seems to be bothering him EVEN now.)
Vegeta gave a scream and powered up to his Super Saiyan 2 level, the electricity crackling around his body. Gohan noticed something missing inside of him....he wasn't as strong as he was when he fought Buu....his power that was awakened by the Old Kai....where was it?
(Shit....) thought Gohan. Vegeta made the first move and punched Gohan hard in the face, sending Gohan flying through several trees before going halfway into one that would stop his flight. Gohan coughed up some blood and fell to the ground, on his knees. Vegeta's face turned into a look of concern as he powered down to his normal state. He, Krillin, Videl, and Goku, ran over to the aid of Gohan.
When they got there, Gohan was found lying on the ground. A small pool of blood had formed where his mouth was. Goku quickly pulled out a senzu bean and fed it to Gohan. Gohan ate the bean and swallowed it. When his energy was restored and his injuries had vanished, he stood up and looked at Vegeta.
"I guess....you win," said Gohan.
"Are you okay? I didn't realize my punch was going to knock you THAT far," said Vegeta.
"I'll be fine....excuse me...." Gohan took off into the air before anyone could say anything.
"I'm going after him," said Videl. Just as Videl floated inches above the ground, Goku grabbed her wrist and shook his head.
"No....let him be....he needs to sort this out himself," said Goku.
"But...."
"I understand how you feel towards him, but he'll only fly even further away if you follow him."
"Goku's right, Videl," said Krillin, "Let's just go inside and wait for him....he'll come back when he's ready to eat."
Videl gave a sad smile and nodded, "Okay."
***
Gohan floated high above his house, watching the other go inside. He was high enough to where no one could see him from the ground. He floated down to the top of his house and landed on it softly. Then, he sat in an Indian style position and looked up towards the sky.
"I lost to Vegeta...." Gohan said to himself, "I've also lost to Videl. What good am I? If I lost to someone who can't even fire ki blasts, then how can I win against another fighter who's power was like the evil Buu's?"
Gohan sighed and heard a loud rumble. He laughed a little and rubbed his stomach, "Guess it's chow time." Gohan jumped from the roof of his house and landed softly on the ground. He opened the front door and walked into the house, immediately noticing all the food and guests in the kitchen. Gohan took a seat next to Videl and began inhaling any food he could get his hands on.
Videl just stared at him in shock, (One minute he's down, the next he's really happy....I'll never understand how he can eat so much food.)
"You must have a fast metabolism Gohan....I wonder how you get all of that food out of your system," said Videl.
Gohan took a minute to stop eating and to answer her question, "Well, I guess like any other human. Of course, I eat all the extra food so I have a lot of energy for my training and fighting. I kinda sweat out most of my food and burn the energy really fast. Any leftover food....well....you know where it goes from there."
"Sorry I asked," said Videl with a disgusted look. Everyone else at the table laughed as they continued to eat. Ten minutes later, everyone stopped and was pretty much full.
"Ah! Great cooking Chi-Chi! That was really good!" exclaimed Goku. Chi-Chi smiled, knowing that she had satisfied her husband's intense hunger for food.
"Thank Kami....now his bitching will stop for the rest of the day," muttered Vegeta. Goku decided to play a little joke.
"Awwwwwww....is that all the food?! I'm still hungry!" whined Goku. Vegeta's eyes widened and veins popped out all over his head. His eyes nearly turned red with anger as he got up. The Saiyan Prince walked over to Goku and lifted him up by his vest with his right hand while holding his clenched left hand back....ready to punch him.
"KAKAROT!! YOU WILL CEASE YOUR FUCKING COMPLAINING AND WHINING! NOW!!"
Goku nervously chuckled and held his hands out, "Easy Vegeta! Just kidding! Just kidding!"
"You'd better be, or I'll punch your stomach so hard that you'll never be able to eat again!" Vegeta let go of Goku and walked back over to the table. Goku gave a relieved sigh and looked over to Gohan.
"So....three more days until the prom, eh Gohan?" asked Goku. Gohan gave a simple nod to his father.
Goku spoke again, "So....what are you going to do after the prom?"
"W....What do you mean AFTER the prom?" asked Gohan.
"Are you going to take Videl out somewhere to eat or to a movie or something?"
"Gee....I never gave it that much thought. Of course, if I did plan for something like that I would try to keep it a surprise."
"So, how are you going to arrive and leave the prom, Gohan?" asked Bulma.
"I didn't think about that either, Bulma," said Gohan.
"Jeez....you didn't think this through, did you? Well can't you just drive Videl to the prom?"
"Oy....how can I drive her to the prom if I don't even have a driver's license or a car?"
Everyone decided to think about the solution to this situation. As smart as Gohan was, everyone knew that even he could not learn how to drive in three days....let alone pass the driver's exam either. As usual, it had to be Bulma who came up with the solution.
"I have a great idea! How about I loan you my limousine, Gohan?" suggested Bulma.
"That's perfect, Bulma! Now we just need a chauffeur to drive us," answered Gohan.
"How about me or Mr. Satan?" asked Goku.
"NO!!" replied everyone else. Goku slouched down in his chair and smiled. He already knew the answer to that question before everyone shouted their answer.
"Well, we shouldn't let a family member drive....sorry Chi-Chi," said Videl.
"It's okay, Videl," said Chi-Chi.
"We'll also eliminate Vegeta, because he can't drive either and I doubt you'd want someone like him ruining your fun," said Bulma.
"I can speak for myself, woman!" roared Vegeta. Bulma just rolled her eyes and sighed.
"We're down to three options....me, #18, and Krillin," said Bulma.
"Sorry Bulma, but 18 and I have plans that evening with our daughter. You know....family time," said Krillin.
"Well then, it's settled! I'll drive you two from place to place! You just tell me where to go and I'll drive you both there!" cheered Bulma.
"Thank you very much, Bulma," said Videl.
"I'd do anything for Gohan and a friend, Videl. You can count on me....and I promise not to interrupt your fun."
"Now that that's settled, can we go home now?!" yelled Vegeta.
"Okay, okay....it IS getting kind of late. We'll be on our way," said Bulma.
"Thanks for helping me out with mine and Gohan's shopping, you two," said Videl.
"As if I had a choice!" exclaimed Vegeta.
"So I heard," Videl gave a little giggle and smirk.
"What does she mean, dad?" asked Trunks, tugging on his father's pant leg.
"You'll understand when you're older, son," answered Bulma.
"Once again....I CAN speak for myself!" roared Vegeta as he exited the house. Bulma and Trunks followed, waving at their friends and then flying off....Vegeta carrying Bulma home. After they were out of sight, Videl stretched and yawned.
"Wow....all that shopping must have really worn me out. I guess I'll head back to my house too," said Videl.
"Why don't you spend the night here tonight, Videl? I already cleaned up the guest room for you," said Chi-Chi.
"Thank you....I'll have to call my dad and check to see if it's okay," Videl walked away to the phone, dialing her dad's number while Krillin decided to say bye to the Son household and he headed off for his home as well. Goten went upstairs to his room and closed the door....he was ready for his shut eye. Gohan was left at the table with his father and his mother.
"Now Gohan, you and Videl better not do anything naughty tonight? Ya hear?" said Chi-Chi. Gohan's entire head blushed at the request his mom just made.
"ARE YOU INSANE?!! WHAT MAKES YOU THINK I'D DO SUCH A THING?!!" yelled Gohan.
"Son Gohan!! I will not tolerate yelling in this house, young man! Do you understand?!" roared Chi-Chi.
"Then you won't be able to tolerate yourself, because you're yelling right back! You didn't have to say anything that would prevent me and Videl from doing anything! We're just friends, okay?!"
"Young man, I just told you not to yell in this--"
"Just shut up!!"
"Gohan!" yelled Goku, as he grabbed his eldest son by his wrist. His eyes met his son's, both of them full of fire. "Fighting with your mother about studying when you were a child was one thing, but this is entirely different. Now calm yourself down!"
"You just think that because you're the strongest in the universe means you can command whoever you want to do what you want them to do?!" yelled Gohan.
Gohan yanked his wrist away from his father's grip and walked into his room slamming the door shut, not hard enough to break it, and locked his door. Videl had just walked back downstairs when she had heard all the yelling and arguing that had just commenced.
"What happened?" asked Videl.
Chi-Chi's watery eyes spilled tears down her cheeks as she walked past Videl and upstairs into her own room. Goku sighed.
"I've never seen Gohan and his mother argue like that before," said Goku.
"This has to stop....Gohan's emotional problems have gotten out of hand, Goku," said Videl.
"I agree....but I don't know what to do about him. It's like he's a whole different person sometimes."
Goku's eyes quickly flashed to Gohan's room and his expression turned from worry to serious. He looked at Videl.
"He's taken off....can I ask you to look after Chi-Chi?" asked Goku.
Videl nodded, "Sure thing. Be careful." Videl walked upstairs to Gohan's parents' bedroom while Goku put two fingers to his forehead and searched for his son's ki. Once he locked on to it, he disappeared in a couple of seconds.
Videl opened the door and was saddened by the sight of Chi-Chi quietly sobbing. Videl walked over to her and rested her hand on Chi-Chi's back. Chi-Chi looked up at Videl and looked away.
"You see me in such an embarrassing state, Videl," said Chi-Chi.
"Chi-Chi, it's ok. I know that Gohan is going through some problems and that you can't tolerate it much more, but I'm here for both of you. Remember that, ok?" Videl pulled Chi-Chi into a soft hug as Chi-Chi quietly cried on Videl's shoulder.
***
Gohan continued to fly further and further away from his house. He stopped dead in his tracks as soon as his father appeared before him. Gohan looked at the person in front of him, not only as his father, but as the strongest warrior in the universe too.
"Son, I don't know how much longer this can go on. You need to talk to someone about this or at least get some help," pleaded Goku.
"You're right dad....but no psychologist or therapist on Earth could help me with this," said Gohan.
"Maybe being anxious is also adding to your problems?" asked Goku.
"I....I just don't know. It's like I don't even know what is wrong with me sometimes. Every time I think I've got the answer to what my problem is, it's not the correct answer and I feel worse afterwards," Gohan turned to the direction of where his house was. Goku put a hand on his shoulder.
"Do you want to go back, Gohan?"
"Yeah....I do...."
Goku nodded and put two fingers to his forehead. When he locked on Videl's energy, he used his Instant Transmission to teleport himself and Gohan back to their house. They arrived in the bedroom where Videl was softly hugging Chi-Chi. Chi-Chi looked up at Gohan and was shocked to see tears in Gohan's eyes.
Gohan choked up and the words barely escaped his mouth, "Mom....I'm so sorry...." said Gohan.
Mother and son embraced each other and cried on each other's shoulders, hugging each other tight. Videl stood up smiling and Goku put a hand on Videl's shoulder, smiling at the sight as well.
(Still....), thought Videl, (Though they're making up now, there's a chance this won't be the last time it will happen....maybe not even to Chi-Chi, but to someone else. I just hope he doesn't argue with me like he did with his mom. The way the aftermath turned out, I'd be heartbroken.)
***************************************************************************
Phew! Done with Chapter 2....and it took me even longer to write than Chapter 1! Nearly three weeks! Hopefully, though, I can start writing these chapters faster when I get my ass in gear. Anyway, Chapter 3 will be coming soon! Dooooooon't miss it!