Dear Ex-wife, Marry Me novel Chapter 31

"Dana, as a matter of fact, Ian is married," Maja calmly responded, surprising Dana with her knowledge of Ian's marital status. This information was known to only a few in high society, and even then, Ian's wife was not held in high regard.

Dana scoffed mockingly, "You mean that woman who never shows her face? The Raymond’s don't even acknowledge her as Mrs. Raymond. What kind of Mrs. Raymond is she?"

Maja remained unperturbed by Dana's remarks and replied, "Regardless, the fact that she is married to Ian remains. Any woman trying to gain his attention should be morally condemned, don't you think?"

Dana found it difficult to refute Maja's argument and sneered, "Aren't you just the same? Don't think Ian will like you just because you're pretty. He's been infatuated with my cousin for ten years."

"I don't believe Mr. Raymond is that invested," Maja retorted, but her response was interrupted by a man's indifferent voice.

"What kind of person should he be?"

Maja's face changed as she realized that Ian, who was supposed to be in a meeting, stood at the entrance. She felt somewhat embarrassed by the situation.

Dana, however, appeared delighted and approached Ian, attempting to engage him in conversation.

"Mr. Raymond, weren't you going to a meeting?"

Ian glanced at her casually and replied softly, "Ms. Shepard is correct. I am married. You may want to adjust how you address me to avoid any misunderstandings with your cousin."

Dana lowered her gaze and replied softly, "I understand."

Ian gave Maja a deep look, adjusted his watch, and left the room.

Maja stood there, feeling regretful for potentially offending a client. She sighed, picked up her bag from the floor, changed her clothes, grabbed her keys, and headed straight to Greenfield Gardens.

Maja returned to her car after touring Greenfield Gardens and surveying the surrounding environment. Although she had memorized the floor plan and the designs of the other gardens, she still had no idea about Ian's preferences. He was an enigma, and she struggled to understand his hobbies.

Passing by a mall, Maja remembered that it was Tricia's birthday, so she decided to stop and find a birthday gift for her. However, as she entered the diamond necklace section, she unexpectedly ran into Ryan.

Ryan was arguing with a beautiful woman, who eventually angrily slapped him. Maja felt regretful for walking in at such an awkward moment.

Ryan noticed Maja and greeted her, "Penny, didn't expect to see you here. Are you shopping?"

Feeling awkward, Maja greeted him in return, "Mr. Elston."

Despite the mark from the slap still visible on his face, Ryan seemed unfazed and spoke with the carefree demeanor of a young man, "I heard you landed my cousin's project. Congratulations."

Maja said, "I have you to thank for recommending me."

Ryan scratched his head casually, "No big deal, just doing my part."

Maja insisted, "It may be a small thing to you, Mr. Elston, but it means a lot to me. Let me treat you to a meal."

"No need for that. If you really want to help me, I have a favor to ask right now."

Maja inquired, "What is it?"

Ryan sighed in distress, "You saw it. My girlfriend just broke up with me. I need you to be my date to meet someone. You don't know her, so just pretend to be my girlfriend. It will only take half an hour of your time."

Feeling indebted to Ryan for his assistance, Maja reluctantly agreed, "Alright."

Appreciative of her consent, Ryan picked up a necklace from the display and handed it to her, saying, "Consider this a token of appreciation."

Maja wanted to decline, but Ryan said, "As long as you help me resolve this situation, I'll continue recommending projects to your studio in the future."

Maja found it difficult to refuse under those circumstances.

As they arrived at the restaurant, Maja soon realized that the person Ryan wanted her to meet was Ian's aunt, Maureen Raymond.