A heavy silence hung in the cabin. The gravity of his words was palpable. Elara felt a chill. She knew Daniel's world was dangerous, but hearing the details, the extent of the corruption, the hunt for these powerful figures, gave a new dimension to his existence as "Ghost." He was at the epicenter of it all, moving pieces, unraveling secrets, but always at risk.
"So," Daniel continued, his voice returning to a more controlled tone, "this isn't the best time to expose our family to such a volatile environment. We can't risk their safety. The celebration in New York, as much as I'd like it... is unfeasible for now." He looked at Elara, then at Aisha, seeking their understanding. "My priority is safety. Always."
"Understood," Elara said, her voice a little hoarse, concern etched on her face. "So... what do we propose for my parents? And for the Prince?" Her mind was already working on a solution, a new narrative that would fit the complexity of the situation.
"That's where our creativity comes in," Daniel said, a slight smile on the corner of his mouth. "We can say that, due to urgent and unexpected commitments that have arisen—without going into details, of course—the wedding will be brought forward and celebrated in Dubai, intwo weeks." He paused, his eyes shining with an idea. "But it won't be a big open party. It will be an intimate celebration. Just our families. Our families, Elara. The King's royal family, the princes and their wives and children... the 'grandchildren,' who are many and who, together, almost fill a hotel ballroom," he joked, a hint of lightness in his voice. "No strangers. No press. Nothing that might draw unwanted attention to such an important moment."
He looked at the two women, a challenge in his eyes. "What do you think? It's a good cover for the real reason we're avoiding the US right now. And a way to cement the union with Aisha's family more quickly and discreetly."
Elara thought for a moment, absorbing the proposal. An intimate celebration in Dubai, with royalty, in two weeks. The urgency of Daniel's situation, the "witch hunt" in the US, made sense. It was a way to protect everyone. "I think it makes sense, Daniel. It's the best way to maintain security and still honor the commitment. And... it's more your style, isn't it? Exclusive, discreet, yet imposing."
Aisha, who had been following the explanation attentively, nodded. "I agree. It's the best strategy. And the fact that it's in Dubai, on our territory, provides an extra layer of security and control. Furthermore, the presence of our entire royal family at an intimate wedding... is a tremendous honor. It solidifies the alliance even more deeply, without the unnecessary ostentation that could attract unwanted attention at such a delicate time for Daniel." She looked at Elara, a knowing smile on her face. "Prepare to meet an impressive number of relatives, Elara."
Elara laughed, a subtle relief washing over her. The idea was brilliant. Less exposed, safer, and yet grand. "Great. And now, the next step," Elara said, a glint in her eye. "Let's call the Prince and let him know about the plan. After all, it's 50% his fault, don't you think, Aisha?" She joked, humor returning to the atmosphere.
Daniel shook his head, an exasperated but affectionate smile on his lips. "Not that I don't like you or love you, Aisha," he said, turning to her, his eyes full of affection. "But your brother... he's a pain in the ass when he wants me to become 100% family. And he succeeded. Completely." He sighed dramatically, but his eyes shone with genuine satisfaction. "Besides," Daniel continued, his voice taking on a more serious tone, turning to Elara, "Aisha gave me her first time. And in her culture, if I don't publicly accept her as part of my life, especially now that this intimacy has been shared... she would be stoned and killed. Did you know that, Elara?"
Elara gasped, her eyes wide with shock. She had understood the importance of cultural and diplomatic ties, but the gravity of that detail hit her like a lightning bolt. A pang of guilt and responsibility coursed through her. She looked at Aisha, who simply nodded with a serious expression, confirming Daniel's words.
"And we also have to call Dad," Daniel said, joking with Aisha, referring to the King. "Because this wouldn't just come from the Prince, it would come from the King too. He loves me like a son, Elara, ever since I saved his granddaughter years ago. His word is law. This alliance isn't just between the Prince and me; it's a royal mandate. And with this 'witch hunt' going on, and the need to keep everything discreet, it's the best way to protect us all. Not only from external threats, but also from internal intrigues that could arise if our union isn't seen as something traditionally blessed."
Aisha smiled at Daniel, a look of affection in her eyes. "My father will be very happy. He trusts you implicitly, Daniel. And he will see this as the consolidation of an era of prosperity and security for our family and our kingdom."
Daniel grabbed his satellite phone from a charging cradle on his bedside table, a sleek, sleek device that to the outside world would look like an ordinary smartphone, but to him, it was a secure portal to his global network. With a few quick taps, he dialed.
The phone rang only once before a deep, calm voice answered. "Daniel, my son. To what do I owe the honor of this early call?" The voice belonged to the King, the tone formal, but tinged with paternal affection.
"Your Majesty," Daniel replied, his posture becoming more formal, even naked. "I apologize for the lateness. I have an important update on the plans and a proposal I believe you will like. Elara and Aisha are with me."
There was a brief silence on the other end of the line, and Daniel could imagine the King nodding, listening with the wisdom of years of leadership. "Speak, my son. You know I trust your judgment and your loyalty."
Daniel explained the plan and the urgency of the situation in the US without going into explicit details about the kidnapping or the "witch hunt," only mentioning "unforeseen circumstances that require discretion and caution" and the need for a more intimate and immediate celebration in Dubai. He emphasized the importance of solidifying family ties quickly and safely. "Aisha is with me, Your Majesty, and she agrees with the need for this union. It is the way to ensure peace and the protection of our families."
The King listened attentively, without interruption. Finally, his voice rang with approval. "I understand perfectly, Daniel. Prudence is the greatest virtue in uncertain times. And the union of our families is a blessing. My daughter, Aisha, is a woman of honor, and you, Daniel, are like a son to me. There is no greater proof of trust than this alliance. Let it be done as you propose. Two weeks is a short time, but we will make the necessary preparations. And yes, only the families. The essence of our power lies in our blood ties, not in ostentation to outsiders."
Daniel felt relief wash over him. The hardest part was done. "Your wisdom is unparalleled, Your Majesty. I thank you for your understanding and your blessing."
"And Prince Rashid?" the King asked, his tone mildly amused. "Does he already know of the accelerated plans and the... nature of the union?"
"Not yet, Your Majesty," Daniel replied, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "We would like your permission to inform you soon. And perhaps... a brief reminder that this decision has also come from His Majesty, to ensure swift preparations."
The King laughed, a dry, powerful sound. "Ah, yes. Prince Rashid sometimes needs a little reminder of who has the final say. Tell him I look forward to this celebration and that my blessing is upon you. And Aisha, my daughter, I am proud of you."
Aisha, who had been listening intently beside Daniel, smiled, her eyes welling up. "Thank you, Dad. It's an honor."
The call with the King ended. Daniel now dialed Prince Rashid. The phone rang twice before an excited, slightly impatient voice answered. "Daniel, my friend! Bags packed for Dubai? Or are you already unveiling another one of my 'global deals' for me?" Prince Rashid, always direct and energetic.
"Rashid, my friend. I have an update, and perhaps... a surprise," Daniel said, his tone amused. "Elara and Aisha are with me."
There was a brief pause on the other end. "Aisha? Is she with you? I hope she's okay and not giving you any trouble, Daniel. She can be a little... headstrong."
"She's great, Rashid," Daniel replied, exchanging an amused look with Aisha. "And she's been a huge help, actually. We're here planning an early wedding in Dubai. In two weeks. Just the families."
A shocked silence fell over the line. "Two weeks? Daniel, are you crazy? And 'families only'? That's... that's a little too fast for royalty, don't you think?"
"Some urgent and unforeseen things have come up, Rashid," Daniel explained, keeping his voice calm and steady. "In the United States. This isn't a good time to expose families. Discretion is key right now. And your sister and I... well, the bonds you hoped to strengthen... have deepened more quickly than expected. And to honor culture and tradition, and with His Majesty's blessing, we've decided to move the wedding forward." Daniel hammered home the "His Majesty's blessing" like a hammer.
Prince Rashid snorted. "Father is already involved, then. Of course. He's always one step ahead of us. So, my sister... she's becoming your... second wife, Daniel? That's... unexpected. But honorable." There was a note of surprise and a certain pride in his voice. "You really do keep your promises, Daniel. And I told you she was special, didn't I?"
"She's exceptional, Rashid. A true treasure," Daniel said, his gaze on Aisha filled with affection. "And to ensure everything is done with the honor and discretion the situation demands, Father has agreed to the celebration in two weeks, with only the families. You need to start the preparations. And organize the logistics for Elara's families and yours to arrive in Dubai without fanfare."
Rashid sighed, but there was a note of acceptance in his voice. "Ah, Daniel. You always throw me into these impossible situations. But yes, I will do whatever it takes. If Father has given his blessing, who am I to question it? And for you, my friend, I will do anything. And for my sister, of course. I see you've truly taken building family ties seriously." There was a subtle irony in his last words, but no malice. "Prepare for an invasion of nephews and cousins. We have many 'grandchildren,' as you well know."
Daniel laughed. "I'm already prepared, Rashid. Count on me for the security and logistics outside the palace. But the party details, on your side, are up to you."
The call with Rashid ended, and Daniel felt exhausted but satisfied. He returned to the bed, lying between Elara and Aisha, pulling them close.
"So," Elara whispered, snuggling against him, "the excuse is made, the date set, and the Prince and the King are on board. It seems that in two weeks, Aisha and I will be your wives. And the family's life will be safe, away from the 'witch hunts' in Los Angeles." She looked at Daniel, a glint of admiration in her eyes. The way he manipulated power and influence, without ever revealing the existence of his "Shadow Network" or his operations as "Ghost," was mesmerizing. He was a master of the art of appearance.
"Yes, my love," Daniel murmured, kissing Elara's forehead. "And all thanks to the intelligence of both of you. My world may be complicated, but with you by my side, it becomes understandable. And safe." He held them both in his arms, his eyes closed. The morning sun now completely flooded the cabin, and the A380, a sanctuary of luxury and secrets, rested silently in the hangar, ready for the next leg of the journey, carrying with it an unusual family and a web of intertwined destinies.
The morning was drawing to a close in Daniel's private hangar in Tokyo, where the A380 rested in its majesty, a polished metal behemoth beneath the soft light. The air was tinged with the distinctive aroma of kerosene and the fresh smell of cleanliness, as Daniel's elite maintenance team worked discreetly inside, preparing it for its next flight. Elara and Aisha, now dressed in silk robes, were in the aircraft's main lounge, enjoying aromatic coffee and some fresh fruit, while Daniel, already dressed in his customary black silk shirt and tailored trousers, sat in his private office inside the A380.