Dear Ex-wife, Marry Me novel Chapter 32

Maja found herself standing at the entrance of the restaurant, caught in a dilemma. Ryan Elston whispered behind her, "See the woman by the window? That's my mom, and she has a fiery temper. If I can get through this unscathed, you'll be my savior."

Instinctively, Maja wanted to hide her face, but Maureen Raymond had already noticed her presence. As Maureen's gaze fell upon them, Ryan tensed up.

"Prepare yourself," he said, wrapping his arm around Maja's waist and guiding her towards Maureen.

Maureen's piercing gaze scrutinized them from head to toe. Ryan pulled out a chair for Maja, offering a gentlemanly smile.

"Mom, this is my girlfriend, Penny. She's an interior designer."

Maja's mind went blank, slowly regaining her composure as she took her seat. Judging by Maureen's expression, it seemed she didn't recognize Maja. Maja breathed a sigh of relief, realizing that her ties to the Raymond family would soon be severed. However, she felt obligated to play along and repay a favor.

"Hello, Aunt Maureen," Maja greeted, maintaining her composure.

Maja possessed delicate and striking features. With her fair skin and an aura of cool elegance, she stood in stark contrast to the ostentatious women Ryan typically surrounded himself with.

Maureen withdrew her gaze. A glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes appeared.

"I thought you'd bring just any random person to appease me, Ryan. You've grown up."

Ryan had indeed intended to bring just anyone. He had even invited his ex-girlfriend, but a slip of the tongue during gift shopping resulted in a slap. Fortunately, the slap wasn't too forceful, leaving no visible marks.

"Mom, Penny is incredibly capable. You know the house Ian Raymond has in Greenfield Gardens, right? She's the one designing it. So, rest assured, I'm not involved with any inappropriate women at the moment."

Being chosen by Ian as the designer spoke volumes about Maja's talent.

Maureen was pleased, and the more she looked at Maja, the more she liked her.

Pretending to be angry, Maureen turned to Ryan, "Didn't you buy any gifts for her?"

Observing Maja's attire—a quality fabric but with a simple design—and her handbag from a brand under $40, Maureen looked at her son with satisfaction.