With her departure imminent, Ariana reached out to the administrator, ensuring that the necessary arrangements were made for her checkout.

Just as she was about to voice her grievances regarding the less-than-satisfactory conditions of her room the previous night, the administrator, upon seeing her looking presentable and content, couldn't help but boast about the house's overall appeal. He casually inquired about the quality of her sleep.

Suppressing an inward roll of her eyes, Ariana chose to maintain a dignified silence, unwilling to waste further time on him. She swiftly completed the checkout process.

As she was prepared to departure, the administrator unexpectedly interjected, his voice laced with a touch of excitement, “Oh, by the way, I overheard you inquiring about Lilyana yesterday. She has returned to town today."

Ariana was taken aback, yet filled with joy at this unexpected news.

Her immediate response was to inquire, “Do you happen to know the whereabouts of Lilyana? Where can I find her at this moment?"

The administrator replied, his voice tinged with assurance, "She departed for her shop early this morning. If you make your way there promptly, you should find her still present."

Without wasting another moment, Ariana hastened towards the tailor shop, her heart pounding with anticipation.

As she approached, she noticed the door, once shut tight, now wide open. A surge of eagerness coursed through her veins, propelling her to quicken her pace and rush towards the entrance.

Inside, the store exuded simplicity and cleanliness. However, the front counter stood vacant, with only a scattering of items and several sewing machines adorning the space.

Ariana's eyes fell upon a gentle-looking elderly lady, meticulously tidying up something.

Determined, she knocked on the door and inquired politely, "Hello, may I have the pleasure of speaking with Lilyana?”

The old Lady, engrossed in organizing fabrics, turned around and beamed at Ariana. Her voice, filled with warmth and grace, greeted her, “Are you the young Lady who undertook a long journey to seek me out, as mentioned by Lynn next door?"

Lilyana's amiable disposition immediately resonated with Ariana, forging an instant connection between them.

She nodded earnestly and offered a sweet smile in return, affirming, "Yes, indeed, it is me.”

Returning the smile, Lilyana kindly but regretfully remarked, "I regret to inform you that our business has ceased to exist here. I'm afraid your trip has been in vain."

Ariana felt a tinge of guilty upon hearing this, realizing that her purpose for coming here extended beyond mere clothing.

She scratched her cheek sheepishly and sincerely apologized, “No, no, please forgive me. I am the one who should express remorse. In truth, I came... primarily seeking your insight on a certain matter."

Unperturbed and displaying no signs of surprise or anger, Lilyana maintained her gentle smile as she inquired, "What is it that you wish to know?"

Ariana hesitated momentarily before voicing her query, “Do you happen to be acquainted with a girl named Marley?”