Then she met Karim.
He was a wealthy businessman from an Arab family, known for his investments in real estate and hospitality. He traveled frequently, spoke several languages, and had a confidence that made people pay attention whenever he entered a room.
They met at a charity event where Amelia had been helping organize an exhibition. Karim approached her after noticing a collection of photographs she had arranged.
Instead of beginning the conversation by discussing money or business, he asked her why she had chosen those particular photographs.
Amelia was surprised.
Most wealthy guests had walked past the exhibition without looking closely. Karim, however, seemed genuinely interested in her explanation.
They spoke for nearly an hour.
Before leaving, he asked whether she would consider meeting him again.
Amelia hesitated. She knew he belonged to a world very different from hers. Still, something about their conversation made her curious.
Their first dates were surprisingly simple. They visited quiet cafés, walked through art galleries, and talked about their families and ambitions.
