The moment Son Gohan returned to his own timeline, he let out a sigh.
"I'm home."
He briefly sensed the direction of Mount Paozu and took a deep breath.
No matter how familiar home was, returning after some time away always took a little getting used to.
Now that Son Gohan was back, he could hardly wait to get home.
A white aura erupted around him, and he streaked toward Mount Paozu.
When he pushed open the courtyard gate, Goten was playing with a toy Trunks had given him.
The little boy looked up at the noise, his eyes instantly lighting up as he tossed the toy aside.
He shouted with joy.
"My big brother's back!"
Son Gohan bent down, picked Goten up, and put him on his shoulders.
He teased Goten until the boy giggled.
Hearing the commotion, Chi-Chi came running out of the kitchen.
She approached Son Gohan and looked him up and down several times.
With worry written on her face, she asked,
"Gohan, did you get hurt while you were away?"
"Did you eat properly? Have you lost weight?"
Son Gohan set Goten down, then answered softly.
"I'm fine, Mom. Never better."
"I did miss your cooking, though."
The worry vanished from Chi-Chi's face, and the corners of her mouth lifted.
She retied the apron around her waist.
"All right, all right. I'll cook for you right away."
"What would you like?"
"Anything's fine."
Goten chuckled beside them. It was a warm, happy scene.
For a moment, Son Gohan felt a little dazed.
He resolved to protect this hard-won happiness.
Then Son Gohan sat on the couch and sank into it.
Nothing beat the couch at home. He casually asked,
"Has Videl been over lately?"
"Videl comes by often, and Lazuli visits sometimes, too."
Chi-Chi paused,