Arranged

Arafat Khan was the chairman of Khan Enterprise, a prestigious publishing company he rightfully inherited from his father. The company had been established in his father’s youth with the vision of providing a stable and prosperous future for the generations to come.

However, Arafat wasn’t simply handed the company on a silver platter. The family had a strict clause in their will: to take over the business, the heir had to prove themselves worthy and secure a powerful marriage alliance before the legal proceedings could begin.

Determined to earn his place, Arafat started as an intern, working his way up through dedication and perseverance. After completing his university education, he was arranged into marriage with Samima Islam, a woman of grace and intelligence from an esteemed family of elite advocates. Their union was not a choice but an obligation, both bound by their families’ strict expectations and reputations.

Despite their initial reservations, Arafat and Samima gradually adapted to each other. Their shared devotion to faith became a strong foundation, leading them to fall in love for the sake of Allah. Over time, they found contentment in their relationship.

Three years into their marriage, they were blessed with a son, Ehsan Khan, the most precious gift from the Almighty.

As the years passed, Ehsan grew into the country’s most eligible bachelor and the rightful heir to Khan Enterprise. Like his father, he began as an intern, determined to earn his position through hard work rather than entitlement.

Known for his intimidating presence and disciplined nature, Ehsan was strict about maintaining order and efficiency in everything he did. Though not arrogant or self-centred, he had conditioned himself to focus solely on his work and fulfil the high expectations placed upon him.

Now, as he stands on the precipice of his legacy, his journey is only beginning.

_________

Hamza Sheikh, the chairman of Sk. Publication was arranged into marriage with his beloved wife, Leila Ahmed, whose family owned resorts and hotels all around the country. They needed time to adjust, but found their ease in each other not long after.

After four years of marriage, they were blessed with a beautiful baby girl named Jumana Sheikh.

Time flew like a stream of river, and Jumana grew up to be an ethereal beauty, and her intelligence reached a different level as she earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Oxford University.

Her face was innocent, but her personality was cold as ice. She was a career-oriented woman, rigorous when it came to work, but deep down she had a soft heart, and didn’t know how to show it.

Being the only child, she was to take over the company, but she needed to be married before the proceedings.

________

Both families belonged to a high-class elite society; hence, they agreed to form a marriage alliance between their children and merge the companies, which would result in the establishment of the biggest publication company in the country, providing them with immense power and authority.

Arafat and Hamza had been acquaintances for many years, but their children had never met each other. They only knew each other by name as they were the next CEOs and both were in the publication industry.

Their grandparents did not like the idea of them choosing their own life partners. They were worried the children might select someone who didn’t match their high standards.

Neither Arafat nor Hamza supported their parents’ logic of forcing their kids to marry into powerful families just for the sake of power.

Islam did not allow parents to force their children into marrying someone they didn’t want to. It was considered a sin.

Regardless, they didn’t really have a say in it. It had become a tradition in their family since their ancestors; thus, Ehsan and Jumana were also expected to follow the tradition of arranged marriage. Hence, the parents tried their best to select spouses who were worthy of each other.

Soon enough, the biggest headline came out: The next CEOs of Khan Enterprise and SK Publication were tying the knot in holy matrimony the very next month.

Ehsan and Jumana accepted their parents’ decision, knowing very well about their tradition. Both were respectful and obedient, and as well as single, so there was no reason for them not to accept the wedding.

One day or another, they had to marry someone of their family’s choice, so why deny something inevitable?

_______

“Where is Ehsan, Arafat?” the eldest Khan asked.

“He is on his way, Dad... he was stuck in a meeting,” Arafat informed.

“They will be here—”

“I am here,” came a deep, soothing voice, interrupting the eldest.

“Here you are,” Samima said, hugging him dearly.

“Assalamu Alaikum, everyone,” Ehsan greeted, hugging the rest of them and receiving compliments for his appearance in the process.

He wore a black three-piece suit with a crisp white button-down shirt beneath. His dark hair was slicked back, making him look as dashing as always. His aura radiated power and dominance.

Not long after, the Sheikhs arrived, and everyone stood up to greet them.

“Assalamu Alaikum” (Peace be upon you).“Walaikum Assalam” (Peace be upon you too).

The elders exchanged greetings first, while the youngest two stood behind, slightly awkward.

“Ehsan,” Arafat called, and the young man stepped forward to stand beside his father.“Jumana,” Hamza called, wrapping his arm around his daughter’s shoulder.

And for the first time, their eyes met. Their faces were calm, their expressions cold, and their postures confident.

But deep down, it would be a lie to say their hearts did not quicken the moment their gazes locked. Still, neither chose to acknowledge it.

“Assalamu Alaikum, I’m Ehsan Khan. Nice to meet you,” Ehsan introduced himself.“Walaikum Assalam, I’m Jumana Sheikh. Likewise,” she replied.

The introduction felt more like a business deal than anything else—but who could blame them? It was all new to both of them. They did feel a slight giddiness within, though neither truly understood what it was they were feeling.

Dinner went smoothly, with the elders engaged in conversation while the young ones focused on their food in silence._________

The day of the Nikkah came sooner than expected. In the entire month leading up to it, Ehsan and Jumana had never met again. They didn’t talk or even exchange a single text. Both were too reserved— not because they didn’t want to, but because they simply didn’t know what to say.

Ehsan sat in the aisle on one side of the flower partition placed in the middle. He wore a white sherwani with intricate matching embroidery, accessorised with a long green pearl necklace and a silver Rolex gifted by his parents.

Beside him stood Hamim, his best friend and personal secretary, along with Rehan, his close friend and business partner, serving as his witnesses.

Jumana walked down the aisle gracefully, clad in a white, embroidered, shimmery dress paired with a long overcoat. The edges were decorated with shining white stones that trailed against the ground.

Her beauty was spellbinding; Ehsan nearly lost himself at the sight, stunned and mesmerised, almost forgetting to breathe.

Jumana took her designated place opposite Ehsan on the other side of the flower partition.

After the Nikkah ceremony, the Qazi (priest) announced them as husband and wife, and the hall erupted in cheerful applause for the newlywedded couple.

Ehsan stepped forward as Jumana rose from her seat. Leaning closer, he placed a soft, feather-like kiss on her forehead, causing her cheeks to flush a delicate shade of pink. Their hearts raced wildly, skin tingling with an unknown excitement neither had felt before.

The reception unfolded joyfully, cameras flashing nonstop to capture every possible moment.

________

That night, they returned home, and Jumana was led to Ehsan’s room to freshen up while he remained busy with his prayers.

Her belongings had already been neatly arranged in the closet, with Samima making sure every detail was taken care of. After a warm shower, Jumana slipped into her night attire and, spotting the prayer mat inside a glass cabinet, offered her prayer.

By the time she finished, Ehsan entered the room, freshly showered, dressed in sweatpants and a t-shirt.

His gaze instantly fell on Jumana’s long, flowing hair. It was the first time he had seen it, and he was mesmerised. A sudden possessiveness stirred in him—he was relieved no other man would ever witness this sight. The thought alone was enough to make his fists tighten, a sharp reminder of his fiercely protective nature when it came to family.

Meanwhile, Jumana sat on the edge of the bed, fidgeting with her slender fingers, unsure of what to say.“Um... you must be tired. Let’s sleep,” Ehsan finally said, breaking the silence.“Um... yeah,” she murmured, rising to her feet.

Ehsan moved towards the couch, earning a faint frown from her.“What are you doing?” she asked softly.“Taking the couch,” he replied simply.Her cheeks warmed as she lowered her gaze. “It’s fine... we can share the bed.”Ehsan scratched the back of his neck, a little flustered. “Only if you’re comfortable with it.”

The situation was new, awkward, yet strangely comforting. They lay down, each on their own side of the bed—stiff, but not uneasy.

“Good night, Jumana,” he said gently.“Good night, Ehsan,” she whispered back.

________

Jumana was the first one to wake up, as she had always been a morning person. Then she woke up Ehsan, and both offered their morning prayer together.

They were beside each other when Ehsan leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Jumana’s forehead, forming a sweet smile on her face. She didn’t know she was capable of feeling and showing such softness to anyone.

The action made both of them feel giddy in their hearts. Neither of them had ever dated anyone before because it was forbidden in their religion — their focus had always been on studies, and then on work.

They wanted to say and do numerous things with each other, but had no idea how or what to do.

The newlyweds got ready and walked downstairs to have breakfast with the rest of the family.

Jumana greeted everyone and settled beside her husband to have the delicious-looking food.

“Jumana, Ehsan... both of you do not need to join work this week. We will arrange an event to announce the merging of our companies and hand it over to you two officially this coming Saturday. You both can work together after that,” Arafat informed.

“Okay, Dad.”“Alright, Dad.”

“Ehsan, take Jumana for an outing today. Spend some time together,” Samima suggested with an encouraging smile.

“Okay,” Ehsan said shortly. An unknown excitement seeped through their nerves at the thought of spending time with each other.

Later that day, both got ready for the outing. Jumana wore a beautiful floral-printed dress that reached her calves, paired with black leggings and a matching hijab. Ehsan chose to wear a black button-down shirt tucked into grey pants.

Ehsan held the car door open for Jumana, who thanked him with a shy smile. Soon, they hit the road with Ehsan behind the wheel.

“Where are we going?” Jumana asked, trying to form a conversation.“Should we go shopping first?” Ehsan suggested.

“I don’t really need anything to buy right now,” she said softly.“Me too. Let’s just go and see if something catches our eyes, okay?” Ehsan suggested, and Jumana didn’t find the need to protest, so she agreed.

Soon they reached their destination and walked inside the mall.

Out of habit, Ehsan went straight into the Gucci showroom and started wandering around. Jumana followed and tried to find something she liked, but she couldn’t find anything to her taste.

Ehsan bought a few outfits because being in Gucci and not buying anything was a big no for him — he was obsessed with the brand.

“Jumana, what did you select?” he asked, frowning.“Uhh, it’s not really my style,” she muttered reluctantly.“Oh, that’s fine. We can go somewhere else,” he said with an assuring smile, which Jumana returned.

Both went to a few other brands, and Jumana selected some outfits, mostly in soft colors. Ehsan didn’t comment, as it was her personal choice.

Jumana protested when Ehsan paid for her stuff, but the elder shut her mouth, saying,“I know you are independent, Jumana. But that fact can’t stop me from providing for my wife.”

Jumana really felt happy when Ehsan said those words. She didn’t know that being taken care of could feel so good. Ehsan respected her independence, but at the same time, he had a provider mentality — and she didn’t find anything wrong in it.

She thanked him with a shy, amused smile.

They were passing by a jewellery shop when something caught Ehsan’s eye.“Let’s go in this shop,” he said, already walking inside, and Jumana trailed behind him like a lost bunny.

“How may I help you, sir?” the lady asked with a professional smile.“Um, can you show me those pendants?” Ehsan pointed.“Sure, sir.”

Jumana was confused as to why Ehsan would buy a pendant out of the blue, but she kept quiet.

He picked up a delicate crescent moon pendant made of gold and decorated with a few tiny diamonds.“That’s really pretty, sir. For whom do you intend to buy this?” the lady asked.

Without saying a word, Ehsan walked behind Jumana and placed the piece of jewellery around her covered neck, surprising her.

“Ehsan—”“For my wife,” Ehsan replied to the question the lady had asked earlier while clasping the lock.

“It looks beautiful on you, ma’am,” the lady complimented, making Jumana blush as she saw herself in the mirror, caressing the chain.

Jumana turned toward her husband, smiling softly.“Thank you,” she said before going on her tiptoes and placing a tender kiss on his beard-clad cheek.

And the salesgirl was dying inside at the cuteness.

“No problem,” Ehsan said, a little flustered by the unexpected action.

After that, they offered their afternoon prayer at a small mosque located inside the mall, before heading to a restaurant for lunch.

“Welcome to Go Lebanese Restaurant,” the host bowed.

“Table for two,” Ehsan stated as the waiter led them to a table in the side row, which had a top view of the city.

Their order arrived shortly, and both dug in. They had little conversations while savouring their food and drinks.

It was already dark when they returned home. Both were really happy but decided to give each other some more time to adjust to everything.

________

The whole week, Ehsan took Jumana to different places — sometimes dinner dates, sometimes the park, and sometimes the beach. They were much more comfortable now and could talk freely without any awkwardness.

Both felt like they had known each other for years, but in reality, they had just gotten to know each other personally over the past week.

The day of the grand event to announce the merging of the two publications came sooner than expected.

The media, CEOs from different companies, acquaintances, peers, family, company employees, partners, and many more were invited.

The hall was decorated beautifully in a golden theme, servers wandering around with world-class refreshments as people conversed among themselves.

Ehsan and Jumana were the last to make their grand entry, dressed in formal outfits. Jumana’s arm was entwined with Ehsan’s, and both of their postures were confident and held power.

At that very moment, the media named themThe Power Couple of the Country.

Arafat and Hamza presented their speeches and announced the awaited merging, followed by speeches from Ehsan and Jumana.

Later, the couple was interacting with some business partners when a CEO of another company appeared before them.

“Long time no see, Ehsan,” the lady said in a slightly different tone — much to Jumana’s dislike.“Hello, Ms. Qureshi,” Ehsan greeted nonchalantly.

“I’ve been calling your assistant for the meeting we planned, but it seems like you were busy enjoying your time with your wife,” she said, eyeing Jumana from head to toe. The other didn’t like the lady one bit.

“Yeah! Let me introduce my wife, Jumana Sheikh,” Ehsan said.“Hi,” Jumana offered her hand for a shake. The smug look on the other’s face faltered slightly, but she quickly composed herself.“Mahira Qureshi,” the lady said, shaking the offered hand curtly.

“Will you mind if I steal your husband for an important conversation?” she asked, her voice laced with mockery.

“No, why would I?” Jumana said confidently — because she trusted her husband. Ehsan hesitated at first, but Jumana’s confidence gave him some courage.

Jumana was sipping on her drink while Hamim and her secretary, Amy, were blabbering about something. Still, her sharp eyes were fixed on the two figures conversing at a different table.

She could read people just by their body language, and it didn’t take her long to understand that the shameless woman had been thirsting over her husband.

When she realised Mahira’s intention of getting close to her husband — who was clearly uncomfortable — she slammed her glass a little too harshly, grabbing the attention of the two blabbering duo.

“Um... Jumana,” Amy called hesitantly, because she knew that look on her boss and best friend’s face.“Time to claim what’s mine,” Jumana smirked and walked toward them.

“Oh God,” Amy prayed.“What just happened?” Hamim asked in bewilderment.“Wait and watch,” Amy smirked, getting the situation.

“Excuse me, Ms Qureshi,” Jumana forced a smile. The other turned toward her but still didn’t move back.

“Can I havemyhusband back? The media is eager to take our pictures together,” she said in a sickeningly sweet voice.“Oh! Um... sure,” the woman finally backed away, and Ehsan sighed in relief. If he wanted, he could have just pulled himself away, but that would have drawn attention and created a scene in front of the media — something he couldn’t afford. Also, he didn’t trust Mahira, who could easily twist the situation and blame him instead.

“Shall we, Ehsan?” she smiled at the man, who returned it.“Let’s go,” he said, leading his wife by her waist as they stood before the cameras, which had been eager to take a couple of pictures.

“Mr Khan, please kiss Mrs Khan’s temple,” a reporter requested. Jumana didn’t plan on changing her surname, as it was prohibited in her religion, but she let it go, knowing it would require a full explanation — and she never liked to talk that much.

Ehsan pulled his woman closer by her waist as Jumana placed her palm on his chest. Placing a soft kiss on her temple, both closed their eyes in bliss. They could hear squeals and coos from everyone.

And then everyone started chanting,“Kiss... Kiss... Kiss...”

Both were a blushing mess, looking around shyly.“Come on, Mr Kim, don’t be shy,” the reporters teased.

Ehsan was a possessive man, and he would never want people to witness their intimate moments — thus, he politely denied.

But he did press a kiss on her cheek lovingly, as if she were a delicate piece of a flower. The hall echoed with whistles and cheers as both pulled back, looking like a living example of tomatoes.

Their parents smiled, seeing both of them happy with each other.

__________

It had been eight months since Ehsan and Jumana got married. Both worked together in the same building as Co-CEOs.

During work, both were really strict, and their similar way of thinking and compatibility led them to win theBest CEOs of the Yearaward. Their companies were touching the sky.

Not only their professional life but also their personal life had improved.

Now, without even speaking, both understood what the other wanted. On their bad days, they stood behind each other as backbones and provided all the comfort they needed.

They were cold initially and didn’t know how to express their feelings, but as time passed, they didn’t need to speak their hearts or minds — one look in each other’s eyes was enough to understand.

They say eyes speak louder than the mouth, and it indeed was true in their relationship.

They were not like those lovey-dovey couples who were always glued to each other and doing cringeworthy stuff. Rather, they provided enough space for each other, and their bond was really mature. They did spend time with each other 24/7, but they maintained professionalism during work hours.

It had been months, and now both wanted to bring their relationship to a different level. Both were ready for each other to confess their feelings and live the rest of their life in a loving marriage.

It was night; Ehsan was determined to confess his feelings to his wife and be together forever.

Jumana freshened up and wore her usual attire before walking out of the washroom. She saw her husband waiting for her, sitting on the edge of the bed.

“Come with me,” he said softly and led her outside.“Ehsan, where are we going? I don’t wanna encounter anyone in this outfit,” Jumana protested softly.

“Everyone is sleeping, and no one would come to this side of the mansion, baby,” Ehsan said — the nickname rolling out of his mouth casually, as if it didn’t make Jumana’s heart go berserk.

“Come.” He led her to the left-wing balcony, which belonged to them. The balcony was big and fancy, but Ehsan had managed to make one corner as cosy and romantic as possible.

Soft, fluffy mattresses were spread on the ground with numerous pillows around. Fairy lights decorated the walls, and beverages and chocolate-coated fruits were placed on the patio table.

“Oh my, Ehsan... Did you arrange it yourself?” Jumana smiled widely, revealing her perfect teeth, mesmerised by the view.“Do you like it, baby?” he asked, scratching his nape and blushing furiously while smiling bashfully.

Jumana giggled at her husband and hugged him dearly, as Ehsan nuzzled into her milky neck.“Thank you, babe,” Jumana mumbled — the nickname rolling out casually, making Ehsan even happier.

Both settled on the mattress under the soft, fluffy duvet in each other’s arms, sipping on the sweet drink that Ehsan had arranged while conversing here and there.

“Baby,” Ehsan started.“Hmm,” Jumana hummed, drawing patterns on his chest as she cuddled him.

“I love you,” he blurted.

Jumana froze as she stared at the older person with wide eyes.

“You know I’m the worst at expressing, but I just want you to know — I love you, and you make me so happy. I want to cherish you and make you the happiest in this world,” he said sincerely.

Jumana’s eyes teared up. She didn’t need long paragraphs to feel what Ehsan was feeling — his sincere words were enough to make her dizzy with happiness.

“I love you too, Ehsan...” That’s all she muttered, as both smiled bashfully at each other.

They stared at each other with love-filled eyes, excited to grow old together.

After three years of loving each other immensely, they were blessed with two cute little munchkins — a baby girl who looked exactly like Jumana and a baby boy who was a spitting image of Ehsan. Their happiness had no bounds.

The little family was complete with their two little beans, who doubled their contentment.

~~~~~~THE END~~~~~~

© 2025 by Israt M.

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