Dear Ex-wife, Marry Me novel Chapter 19

The room fell into a peaceful silence, with not even a pin drop to be heard. Ian began to question his sanity once more. Did she mistake him for her husband?

The chandelier above cast a soft glow on her face as she continued, "Regarding that night, I can't recall much, and I believe you probably don't either, Mr. Raymond. I apologize for mistaking you for my husband."

We're all adults here, and that night was Cristina Perkins' doing. It's not his fault, and he shouldn't bear any responsibility. The task at hand is the most important thing. There's no need to dwell on the past.

"Mr. Raymond, if you are interested in my designs, please feel free to let me know your requirements."

She smoothly redirected the conversation back to work as if that night was a mere blip in their interaction.

Ian remained silent. Just moments ago, he accidentally caught sight of the marks beneath her clothing in the bathroom, and it reminded him of how out of control he had been that night.

Her husband hadn't sought a divorce when she returned to such a state. Was it because he didn't care, or were there issues in their marriage?

He reclined in his seat, quickly regaining his composure.

"I should apologize if that night caused any problems between you and your husband."

Before he could finish, Maja interjected, "No."

She looked him directly in the eye, her gaze serious. "My relationship with my husband remains unchanged. We were strangers before, and we still are now. Nothing has changed."

Ian had never been interested in her marital status, but a mocking glint flashed in his eyes upon hearing her words. The same as always? No man, no matter how deeply he loves a woman, would tolerate being deceived. There's no room for another man in his domain.

He recalled something Maja had mentioned earlier. This project could earn them millions if it succeeded. What was her husband doing, relying on a woman like her?

Ian stood up. "You may proceed with the design for Greenfield Gardens, Miss Penny... as compensation for..." His gaze lingered on her lips, "that night."

Her lips were beautiful, with a slight upward curve in the center. When pursed, a small mole was visible.

A spark of excitement flickered in Maja's eyes. She had yet to anticipate securing the Greenfield Gardens project.

"Of course, I won't disappoint you, Mr. Raymond. Feel free to reach out to me anytime if you have any ideas."

She seemed calm by his deliberate mention of "compensation." Ian furrowed his brow, a suppressed emotion welling up within him.

Half an hour ago, she had been intimate with him, yet now, in sobriety, she turned as cold as ice.

For the first time in his life, Ian realized he wasn't liked. It didn't sit well with him. He went to the door and heard her say, "Mr. Raymond, what about the payment for this suit?"

"It's on me."

He left with a cold tone, slamming the door behind him.

Maja felt weak in the knees, her forehead damp with sweat. She returned to the bathroom and splashed cold water on her face.

She didn't know what kind of drug Kurt had used. The effects hadn't entirely subsided, and her body still felt feverish. It was as if thousands of ants were crawling all over her.

Knowing she was in no condition to leave, she decided to refill the bathtub with water since Ian had provided the room. The water was cold, but it was her only option.

Maja neatly folded her clothes and settled into the bathtub, shivering from the cold.

Exhaustion consumed her, and she drifted off to sleep, leaning against the tub's edge.

When she woke up, it was almost seven in the morning. She nearly stumbled as she stepped out of the bathtub.

The drug's effects had worn off, but she felt lightheaded from soaking in the water all night.

She quickly dried herself off and dressed. Leaning against the wall for support, she first visited the hospital.

Opening the door, she spotted a man standing across the hallway.

He was remarkably handsome and impeccably dressed in a sharp black suit, making it impossible to ignore him.

Maja greeted him hurriedly, "Good morning, Mr. Raymond."

Ian glanced at her and responded with a noncommittal "hmm" before heading towards the elevator.

Maja pressed the elevator button and smiled politely, "I owe you quite a sum for the clothes and the room. I've heard the breakfast here is renowned, Mr. Raymond. Do you have the time? It's my treat."

Ian had intended to decline, as he had several morning meetings. However, he noticed her pale complexion and furrowed brows.

Averting his gaze, he replied indifferently, "Whatever suits you."