Elara's father, a pragmatic man, nodded slowly. "We understand, my daughter. It's... a different view of marriage, but security and alliances in Daniel's world are of paramount importance. If this union brings greater protection and strength, then we accept it. Your happiness, Elara, is our priority." Elara's mother, though still a hint of surprise, offered a gentle smile. Kenji, who had stopped fiddling with his tablet, watched the scene with a curiosity unusual for his age. He was still adjusting to the new routine and the constant presence of discreet security guards at the mansion, but the promise of a grand trip to Dubai and a royal event intrigued him.
Daniel resumed speaking, addressing both families. "And because of urgent circumstances and the need for discretion, which everyone understands is vital to my global operations," he said, his voice deepening, "we have decided to move the ceremony forward. It will be in Dubai, in just two weeks. An intimate ceremony, with only our families. This will ensure everyone's safety and allow us to celebrate this union without the unwanted attention that a larger public celebration would attract at this particular moment in the global landscape." He couldn't mention the "witch hunt" or the Los Angeles incident, as "discretion" was a euphemism that resonated with the royal family for reasons known to them, and with Elara's parents, as something inherent to the business world in which Daniel operated.
The King, in Dubai, nodded solemnly. "Daniel's prudence is commendable. The safety of our families is paramount. This union is a blessing, and its celebration will be an intimate and sacred event."
Prince Rashid, at the King's side, with a smirk, added, "Daniel is a man of action, Father. And of family, it seems. Prepare for the invasion of relatives, Elara. Our family is vast, but this is a celebration of blood ties, and everyone will be there to bless the union."
Daniel smiled at Rashid. "I'm sure it will be a memorable event. You, Elara's parents, and Kenji, who are already here with us in Tokyo, are already accustomed to my staff and the necessary discretion. My security team will ensure a smooth journey to Dubai. And for His Majesty, the King, and Prince Rashid, preparations at the palace can begin. My A380 will be available to the royal fleet soon, an engagement gift for a new era."
The King laughed, a deep, satisfied sound. "Your generosity is unparalleled, Daniel. This gift will be a lasting symbol of our alliance. May Allah bless your journey and our union."
As the conference drew to a close, Daniel paused. His eyes focused specifically on Aisha, an intensity in his gaze that captured the attention of everyone on the call. Aisha, without her hijab but with the innate grace of a princess, met Daniel's gaze.
"Aisha," he said, his voice soft but firm, with an authority that was unquestionable. "As you can see,When we are at home, with our family, in our closest circle, Aisha does not need to wear the hijab.Daniel then paused, looking at the King and Prince Rashid on the screen. "It is a decision made with mutual respect and understanding. My word, as her future husband, and the privacy of our home, ensure that she feels completely comfortable and accepted in her essence," he continued, his voice becoming more didactic, without sounding offensive.She will only wear it when we are in public, outside our residence, or in the presence of strangers who are not part of our close family circle.Honor and modesty are maintained, but Aisha's freedom and comfort within our family are equally important to me."
The statement resounded on the screen, creating a brief, shocked silence in the Dubai palace hall. The King and Prince Rashid, though accustomed to Daniel's boldness, were processing the boldness of such a statement in such a public, albeit virtual, context. For a Muslim woman, her husband's permission to not wear the hijab within their home was a decree of his authority, but also a sign of deep trust and intimacy. It was a subtle break from external expectations, but one that solidified the reality of their new family.
Aisha looked at Daniel, her eyes brimming with gratitude. She nodded slightly, a single tear running down her cheek. "Thank you, Daniel," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. She knew Daniel loved and accepted her for who she was, not just for what she represented to his family or what tradition demanded at all times.
Elara squeezed Daniel's hand, silently proud of her husband. He not only embraced Aisha's culture but transcended it, offering freedom within his domain while shielding her from outside judgment. Elara's parents, who had already witnessed Daniel's dedication to protecting their own daughter, watched with a new layer of admiration. That seemingly simple gesture was a testament to the love and trust Daniel had built with the women in his life.
The King in Dubai, after a brief moment, nodded with an expression that blended acceptance and approval. Daniel's word, as his daughter's future husband, was the new law for her. Prince Rashid, in turn, nodded, a respectful and understanding smile on his lips. He understood the power dynamics and the bond Daniel was forging.
With the matter resolved and plans in place, the connections were terminated. The image on the 100-inch TV faded, leaving Daniel's living room enveloped in a cozy silence. He pulled Elara and Aisha into a tight hug, his arms protectively around them.
"Well, my queens," he whispered, kissing their foreheads. "The move has been made. Now, it's only a matter of time until we're in Dubai, married, and with our extended family. And protected, of course."
Elara snuggled into his chest. "You're amazing, Daniel. The way you make everything seem so... normal, even when it's so extraordinary."
"It's the art of discretion, my love," Daniel murmured. "My operations require me to be... adaptable. And you are my light, the reason for it all." He looked at Aisha, who, her eyes still shining, already seemed lighter, freer. "We await sunrise to take off for our new home. Rest."
Night fell silently over Daniel's mansion, the city lights of Tokyo twinkling in the distance like shooting stars. In the adjacent hangar, the A380 rested, its luxury cars and most precious possessions already in their compartments, ready for tomorrow's transfer. The promise of a grand, safe, and adventurous future hung in the air. The A390, the "machine" that defied the limits of engineering and imagination, was more than an airplane. It was a symbol of Daniel's power, the complexity of his life, and his unwavering commitment to protecting his family, which now expanded to include two worlds and three hearts. The journey to Dubai aboard this flying fortress would mark the beginning of a new chapter, where luxury, danger, and love intertwined in ways only Daniel could orchestrate.