But... What do YOU want?

One-shot: But... What do YOU want?

The cool summer breeze against her skin was a welcome contrast to the warmth that came from the afternoon sun. Videl sighed in content. They just had a lovely lunch at the Son's residence and she and Gohan had isolated themselves from the lively company.

They had been quiet for a while, enjoying each other's presence. She leaned against him while he leaned against a tree overlooking the meadow. She could do this her entire life, she thought; it was just so peaceful.

Her mind wandered off to the future. They'd never really spoken about it, she realized. Of course they'd talked about what colleges they'd looked into, especially as it was an important step in Gohan's career. But he never mentioned being accepted by any of them.

"Gohan," she softly spoke, mainly to not disturb their peacefulness as she broke the silence, "Erasa has been accepted to Theater Collage." Her best friend had been over the moon when she'd heard the news the other day. She wasn't sure if she would get in since her grades weren't the best, but eventually she was granted the benefit of the doubt. It was likely that her bubbly persona had had a hand in that.

Gohan opened one eye, "Really? That's great!" It was probably sincere, but something was off about his reply.

"Most people have had their acceptance letters by now," Videl continued, bracing the subject, "Have you?"

A short moment of silence followed. It was a different silence than they'd found themselves in earlier; one that was uneasy. This surprised Videl; maybe he hadn't been accepted to one? No, that couldn't be it... His grades far outclassed any of their classmates.

"I've been accepted by them all, actually," he finally let loose, trying to hide a sigh.

"That's great news!" She hadn't expected less, but because of his hesitation just now, she began to doubt it for a second. "Your mother must be thrilled! I'm surprised she held back about it during lunch... I'd expected she wouldn't talk about anything else."

"That's because I haven't told her yet," the half-Saiyan explained reluctantly.

"Oh..." Videl was a bit confused. Why wouldn't he? His studies were almost his first priority if Chi-Chi had a say in it. So much so that it really bothered her sometimes - or better said - them, but it wasn't something Gohan couldn't handle. He probably was postponing the whirlwind of emotions which was understandable.

"Have you already chosen which one it's going to be?" Videl tried to keep the conversation going.

"I've written a reply to the one my mother is ecstatic about... But I haven't sent it yet." He sighed and looked away.

After a moment, Videl gently squeezed his hand. "Is it because you don't want to go there?" her voice was full of compassion.

A snicker escaped his lips, "Is it that obvious?"

"Why did you apply to it? If you don't like it?"

"Well, my mother w-"

"Gohan!" she sternly interrupted, "This is your future, not hers. Chi-Chi can want all she wants... The question is: what do you want?"

"Me?"

"Yes... What do you want to do, Gohan?"

"I uh..." He avoided her gaze and looked at the ground where some ants were marching in a straight line to god-knows-where.

"Well?" Videl pushed on, "I'm sure you've thought about it."

"Yes I have," the half-Saiyan spoke up, "But what I want doesn't put food on the table..."