Side Story Three

Illumi decided it was time that he and Iris left the hotel. He didn't have any missions, so he was able to help her out at their, might I add, huge home. Iris became very picky with what she ate, often refusing her favorite meals and snacks. Illumi knew all these traits so he wasn't the least bit overwhelmed.

"Are you going to do anything about Killua and Jade?" she asked, as if suddenly remembering about it.

"It's not something I can question," he answered. "It is best for the family if the heir marries someone strong and reliable."

"So what you're saying is that Jade isn't strong and reliable?" she asked. "Jade's quite strong you know."

Illumi remained silent, waiting for her to continue, but she didn't.

"The engagement meeting is today, isn't it?" she asked.

"Yes," he answered.

"Do I have to attend?" she then inquired.

'Yes, you have to," he replied.

Iris thanked the heavens that her pregnancy bump wasn't showing that much.

That evening, Irisviel arrived at the Zoldyck's residence in a loose pleated dark red dress and flats. She nibbled on little squares of watermelons to keep the nausea down. At the entrance, Kikyo greeted her son and daughter-in-law.

"Good evening. It's very good to see that you're well," she smiled.

"Good evening," Irisviel answered and held her breath. The scent of a fish fillet was coursing through the air. It made bile rise in her throat. This made her hold Illumi's arm tighter.

He looked over at her and immediately knew what was wrong. He led her to the bathroom and allowed her to do her business.

"Thank goodness I brought a tooth brush," she said while exiting the bathroom.

Illumi's eyes scanned her to make sure she wouldn't go throwing up at the dinner table.

"It's alright, I'm fine," she said and walked away, not waiting for him.

At the dining table, the Zoldycks, Jade, and the Suzuki family all sat. When everyone was seated, the discussion started.

"Now that everyone's here," Lady Kikyo started, "We would like to discuss the engagement of Killua to your daughter." Lady Kikyo gestured to the head of the Suzuki household, Mr. Yamasaki. Iris's eyes flitted over to their daughter. She had a haughty look. Her nose was held high at the dinner table. Her hairstyle, which was a high, neat bun, complimented this look. Her eyes were stern and unkind. Iris knew about people like her. Looking over at Killua, she noticed the seventeen year old boy doing the same thing; observing the Suzuki's daughter. In no way was she compatible with Jade.

"Irisviel," Kikyo called on her, "I noticed you haven't touched your food."

"I ate before coming here," Iris lied with ease.

"I see," Lady Kikyo smiled. Iris knew that smile. On the outside it looked kind, but on the inside it says 'I know you're lying'.

Killua looked over at Jade, who sat at the end of the table. She wasn't a family member, so she didn't qualify to sit near the center. She didn't mind though.

After dinner, they allowed Killua and Mr. Yamasaki's daughter, Keiko, to have some private time while the rest of the family members conversed.

"You can't hide from me, Irisviel," Lady Kikyo always had a soft spot for the young woman who stood before her. It wasn't a surprise though. Irisviel's father and she had a good relationship ever since their time in Meteor City.

"I know," Irisviel sighed.

"So why don't you tell me what's the matter?" she suggested.

"It's not as if you don't know," Iris said.

"You're right, I do," she smiled. 'I hope to see wonderful children from you."

"Thanks," Iris replied rather unenthusiastically. Her palms were a little sweaty. She turned around and walked back to Illumi's side. Before reaching, though, she found Jade leaning up against a wall. She had a somewhat thuggish look on her face.

"I hope you didn't do or say anything rash while I was gone," Iris pinched the bridge of her nose. She could almost guess the answer.

"I didn't say anything that bad. That stuck up ass wipe disrespected me and I wasn't going to take it," she folded her arms over her chest.

"You should be a little more careful with what you say," iris put a hand on the girl's shoulder, as if offering comfort. "The best thing you can do now is tell him that you love him."

Jade snorted. "As if! I am not losing this competition."

"At the end of it, would it be worth it?" Iris left Jade with that one question.

"I don't blame Jade for snapping at that Yamasaki bitch," Iris told Illumi. They were currently on an airship.

Illumi looked at his wife. He thought she was being irrational, but didn't say anything.

"I mean, the girl just came. She shouldn't have said mean things to Jade," Iris said. Illumi wondered if it was the pregnancy that was getting to her brain.

I am EXTREMELY sorry that this chapter is soo short. I feel like crying! Literally. I am sooo stressed because of a History essay I am working on and I have different assessments to do. I feel like pulling out my hair! Please find it in your heart to forgive me. I private messaged you guys, responding to your reviews. Oh, and Alluka might be in the next chapter. Who knows. Please be patient with me! Love you guys!