After the CEO Divorced Me, He Wants Me Back (Aveline and Lucas) novel Chapter 1080

"Hello."

Ian extended his hand with a polite smile.

Jolie shook his hand. "Hello."

Ian introduced himself, still smiling. "My last name is Moore, but you can just call me Ian."

"I’m Jolie Quin."

Ian’s smile deepened. "I’ve heard a lot about you from Dolly. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Miss Quin. Please, have a seat."

Jolie nodded and took a seat.

Dolly Rich signaled the server over and started browsing the menu.

"Alright, order whatever you like. It’s on me."

Jolie teased, "It’s not often you offer to treat. I’ll have to make sure you spend big today."

"Go for it," Dolly said with a dramatic wave.

Ian chuckled. "You’re too kind. But as the host, this meal should naturally be on me."

Dolly winked at Jolie and added, "Ian’s just returned from overseas, and everyone’s been taking him out for meals. This is his first time hosting. We should definitely take advantage of it!"

Jolie smiled but didn’t comment further.

After ordering, the three of them chatted casually. However, since Ian and Jolie didn’t know each other well, their conversation remained surface-level.

Midway through the meal, Dolly received a phone call. Returning to the table afterward, she announced, "Something urgent came up, and I need to leave. You two enjoy the rest of your lunch."

Jolie nodded. "Alright, next time’s on me."

Dolly patted her shoulder with a knowing grin before leaving.

Ian gave a slight nod. "Yes. We’re in similar situations. Both of us are dealing with arranged marriages set up by our families. To be honest, I’m not interested in going along with their plans. I’d much rather pursue love on my own terms."

Jolie’s gaze sharpened slightly. "So, does that mean you already have a girlfriend?"

Ian adjusted his glasses. "I do. But I can’t offer her marriage. Her family background doesn’t align with what mine expects. Still, I love her deeply and don’t want to leave her. When Dolly told me about your situation, I thought… maybe we could work together."

Jolie felt a flicker of distaste but stayed seated, letting him finish.

Ian continued, "Miss Quin, if we got married, it would take the pressure off both our families. I’d promise not to interfere with your personal life, and of course, you wouldn’t interfere with mine. We’d maintain a polite, outward relationship as partners. What do you think?"

Jolie asked, "Does your girlfriend know about this brilliant plan of yours?"

Ian’s tone remained calm. "That’s between her and me. My focus is on whether you’d consider my proposal."

"I’ll need to think about it.”