Dear Ex-wife, Marry Me novel Chapter 22

"My hubby's just an average Joe programmer," Maja replied, fabricating a lie on the spot. She continued with a serious tone, "Marriage requires both partners to contribute; he can't be the only one working hard." She pushed the coffee towards Ian and smiled politely, "His income may not be much, but he's dedicated to taking care of the family."

This ideal partner image was a creation of Maja's imagination. Clearly, Ian needed to fit that description.

"So, Mr. Raymond, that lady earlier mentioned you're married. What's your wife like?" Maja asked, trying to make small talk and build rapport with the client. After all, Ian didn't even know the name of the designer. What kind of answer could she expect?

Ian frowned slightly and answered honestly, "I have no clue." He wondered how that woman had been dragging her feet about the divorce. The divorce papers were already on the Pennyfeather family's table, yet she showed no reaction. What was she waiting for? Did she want to continue mooching off the Raymond family?

Maja was taken aback by his straightforwardness. Just then, the waiter arrived with the food, allowing her to change the subject. "Chef Bell is a true art enthusiast. He has a talent for incorporating famous paintings into his dishes."

Three exquisite dishes were served, their colors seemingly chaotic but strangely harmonious.

"Please, Mr. Raymond."

Maja's vision started to blur, and she wanted to wrap up the conversation and head to the hospital. But Ian held his coffee cup, asking casually, "How did you know I have stomach problems?"

Maja was caught off guard. "I took a wild guess. I heard you're a workaholic, Mr. Raymond, so I figured you often skip meals." In reality, Ian's father had complained over the phone about Ian's intense focus on work, leading to frequent stomach issues. He had pinned his hopes on Maja, hoping she could remind Ian to care for his health. Maja never let the old man down and always made promises.

However, they had been married for three years without ever meeting.