The sheikh didn’t hesitate for long — he proposed to her, and the girl, dazzled by his wealth, agreed. She knew very well that she felt no love for the old man, but she was drawn by the possibility of securing her future and forgetting about hunger and debts. For the sheikh, this marriage was more of a status symbol: a young, beautiful wife by his side looked like a sign of his power and wealth.

The wedding was celebrated with unprecedented grandeur. The palace glowed with lights, the halls were decorated with hundreds of white roses and golden fabrics. At the long tables sat only the most respected and wealthy guests — politicians, businessmen, and members of noble families.