Randell said, "The lease for this building spans a minimum of five years, and the landlord insisted on a lump-sum payment. Despite the discount, given the prime city location, the sum remains substantial... The landlord indicated that without the prepayment, he wouldn't reserve the property for us."

As Randell explained, he started to realize his impulsive actions and offered an apology, saying, "I'm sorry. I believed we were securing a favorable deal and acted too hastily."

Given the circumstances, Ariana found herself at a loss for words.

She sighed inwardly, choosing not to blame Randell. “It's alright. Since it's already set, let's focus on the present issue. We can revisit this topic later when the landlord comes."

Before long, the landlord arrived, a middle-aged man with a receding hairline, clad in slippers and a loose white tank top.

Ariana tactfully expressed her desire to retract the rental agreement, but to her surprise, the landlord's demeanor quickly soured. He exclaimed, "Cancel the lease? Absolutely not! Integrity is paramount in business. You can't simply withdraw after committing to rent!"

Ariana suggested, "There were unforeseen circumstances here. How about this? We can offer compensation."

However, the landlord remained resolute, his anger palpable. “No, I've turned down numerous potential tenants because you made the prepayment. I've kept the property reserved for you until now. If you suddenly withdraw, where am I supposed to find another tenant?"

Indeed, this situation was Ariana's doing. The landlord was unyielding, leaving her with no room for negotiation. Plus, walking away meant saying goodbye to the deposit they had already paid.

After considering everything, Ariana chose to go ahead with the lease and signed the contract, committing to the full asking price.

Truth be told, the building itself was quite impressive. It was set in a nice area and offered expansive views. The only problem for Ariana was its proximity to the BRD Group, which increased the chances of her bumping into Holden.

Once the paperwork was out of the way and the payment made, Ariana wrapped up the housing matter and decided it was time to head home with Melon. She had no desire to stick around.

To go back, they had to cut through the BRD Group's lobby. Ariana moved quickly, hurrying into the elevator and going straight for the underground parking to get to her car.

Just as they reached their car, a luxury vehicle pulled up next to them.

Catching a glimpse of the license plate, Ariana felt a twinge of recognition. Thinking it might be Holden, she hurriedly opened her car door, ready to leave. That was when she heard an elderly voice, saying, "Miss Edwards."

The driver's window of the luxury car lowered slowly, revealing not Holden but Devin.

Ariana stopped for a second, realizing Holden wasn't there, and felt a wave of relief wash over her.

Devin, seeing Ariana, inquired, "Do you have time for a chat now?"

As he said this, Devin caught Melon's gaze and couldn't help but soften his expression.

Even though Devin was Holden's butler, Ariana didn't hold any grudges against him. She just didn't want to bump into Holden. Since Devin had been managing the affairs of the Fredrick household, Ariana believed he might have the answers she was looking for. So, she nodded in agreement.