After a moment of hesitation, Felix agreed to exchange contact information with Zara.

"I live in Avesburgh," he said.

With his details in hand, Zara smiled sweetly as she watched him enter a taxi.

"I've met an interesting person, sir. It's the first time since leaving the mountain that I've been defeated by someone my age," Zara muttered.

…

Felix soon arrived at a bustling commercial street in Yartford. He couldn't help but marvel at the sight. There was a small, 20-square-yard pasta shop with a long line of customers. People were eating their pasta while standing or squatting all around.

"Indeed, when one door closes, another opens. It's just a matter of time."

This pasta shop belonged to Madeline. Despite its tiny size, its prime location in the city meant that the annual rent was a steep one million dollars. While a price might be unreasonable in a place like Avesburgh, it was apparently worth it in Yartford.

"Felix, you're here," Madeline greeted him warmly as she stepped o