Ch 75

It was a few hours before they had to go home, and Trunks needed to stop by the jewelry store and pick up the rings. It was hard for him to do, but he knew someday they would be needed. Making his way into the store, he let the salesperson know he was picking up. Waiting for the rings, he looked around the store at some of the happy couples.

"Mr. Briefs."

"Huh, oh thank you very much," Trunks said as the salesman handed him the rings.

"Would you like to take a look?"

Trunks opened the jewelry case to see the beautiful rings staring back at him. "They're lovely."

"Congratulations Mr. Briefs," smiled the salesman.

Trunks couldn't bring himself to say anything, but he put on his best smile and left the store with more sadness then he went in with. The rings felt heavy in his pocket and with every step he took, he tried to push his feelings down. He sighed. 'That's always been my problem, pushing down my feelings instead of dealing with them,' he thought as he felt his phone vibrate in his other pocket. "Hello."

"Sweetie it's almost time to go," said Bulma. "We're all waiting in the lobby for the car to take us to the airport."

"I'm only a few minutes away. I'll be there soon," Trunks said as he dragged his luggage with him.

Outside the hotel he spotted his family, the Son family, and Sharper's family putting their luggage in the trunk. Trunks made his way over and put his luggage away. Everyone was in the car, and it was off to the airport.

"So, what kept you so long?" asked Bulma to Trunks.

"I'd rather not talk about it if that's all right with you mother."

"Gohan told me what happened. I just want you to know your family is here for you," said Bulma.

"I appreciate that mom, and I'm determined to be better for myself and for Goten."

"That's the spirit!" Bulma smiled.

"I have a toast to make," said Sharpner as he held up his beer. "To Bulma! Thanks for the best vacation my family and I have had in years."

"To Bulma," they all exclaimed.

"Thank you Sharpner it was nothing really. I'm glad everyone had a good time."

They arrived at the airport, got through security, and headed to the Briefs family private jet. The ride home was smooth so far.

Goten was in the bathroom, splashing water on his tear stained face. He had tried to keep his emotions in control, but it wasn't in his nature to push them down. Once the seatbelt sign had gone off, he had walked to the bathroom, locking the door behind him. He cried silently in the bathroom. Patting his face dry, he looked in the mirror as he put the hood on his sweatshirt up.

Walking back to his seat, he spotted Trunks asleep. Goten could tell Trunks was troubled in his sleep. 'How—how can I ever think about leaving him? It's painful just thinking about it, but I have to think about my safety. He needs time to get himself together,' he thought as he made his way to his seat.

"Uncle Goten."

"Hey Pan."

"You look awful."

Goten laughed. "Gee thanks Pan."

"I'm sorry about you and Trunks."

"How did you—

"I heard you and my dad talking."

"Oh well thanks Pan," he smiled.

"You've been crying. I imagine it's very painful for you to have to let go of him but still wanting to hold onto him."

"It is, and you're very insightful."

"Well I'm mature for my age," said Pan and then they both burst out laughing. "S—sorry couldn't say that with a straight face."

"You're the best Pan," smiled Goten.

"I know."

"So, did you have fun in Rome?"

"I did, and I'm sure you and Trunks will work things out because you love each other."

"I hope so to Pan."

"Well I guess you two have to work things out, right? You're bonded to each other for life, so that's something."