Does the verbal offer and acceptance between the families of the suitor and the fiancée—as detailed in the question—constitute a legitimate contract that permits the suitor to be in seclusion with his fiancée and consort with her? If it does not permit that, is the fiancée then considered a stranger to him, and what is the ruling on what occurred between them of seclusion and touching without intercourse? Is repentance or expiation sufficient for that?

The validity of the marriage contract does not require reciting Al-Fatiha; offer and acceptance suffice. Once the contract is validly concluded, the woman becomes a wife, and the man has the right to enjoy her. However, the custom of not consummating the marriage before the wedding must be respected. The wife may refuse to surrender herself until she receives her mahr (dowry). If offer and acceptance occur between the girl's guardian and the young man or their representatives, the contract is concluded, and the girl becomes a wife. However, if it is merely a promise of marriage, the girl remains a stranger to the suitor, and nothing from her is permissible to him. He must repent if he has committed anything forbidden.