Solace

Part XXII: Longing

The next morning, the Tavern was abuzz with talk about the mysterious girl who had checked into the inn late the previous night. The usual warm chatter was tinged with curiosity and concern as the regulars gathered around the bar and tables, exchanging bits of information.

Frank, the Tavern's owner, leaned on the counter, wiping down a glass as he listened to the conversations swirling around him. Erika, his wife, stood beside him, refilling a pot of coffee. Theo, Noah, Betty, and Yuri were seated nearby, all with cups of coffee in front of them, their voices lowered as they discussed the stranger.

"Did you hear about the girl who checked into the inn last night?" Erika asked, her brow furrowed with concern. "Poor thing was crying something fierce. I wonder what's got her so upset."

"I heard about it," Frank said, nodding. "Alice mentioned she came in really late. Didn't say much, just asked for a room and went straight upstairs."

Yuri sipped her coffee thoughtfully. "Do you think she's in some kind of trouble? It's not often we get someone checking in at that hour, and in that state."

Theo leaned back in his chair, his expression curious. "I'm not sure, but it's strange that no one seems to recognize her. It's a small island—word usually gets around."

Noah, Frank's younger brother, shrugged. "Maybe she's from the mainland, looking for some peace and quiet. But still, crying like that... something must've really shaken her."

Betty, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "It's possible she's here to escape something—or someone. Whatever it is, I hope she finds some comfort here."

The conversation continued, filled with speculation and concern, but no one knew the full story. Isabel, who had been sitting at a nearby table, quietly listening, felt a pang of worry. She knew they were talking about Maya, Surya's sister. The image of Maya's tear-streaked face flashed in her mind, and she knew she couldn't just sit by and do nothing.

***

After leaving the Tavern, Isabel made her way to the inn, her mind set on checking in on Maya. The inn was quiet when she arrived, the soft hum of morning activity barely audible. Alice, one of the twins who owned the inn, was at the front desk, sorting through some papers. She looked up and smiled as Isabel approached.

"Hi, Alice," Isabel greeted her warmly.

"Morning, Isabel! What brings you here today?" Alice asked, her smile bright and welcoming.

"I wanted to ask about a guest who checked in last night. Her name is Maya. I happen to know her, actually," Isabel explained, her voice gentle.

Alice's smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of concern. "Oh, Maya... Yes, she checked in late last night. She looked really upset, and she's been keeping to herself since then. Suki and I are worried about her. She hasn't left her room much, and Suki even had to offer room service to make sure she had something to eat."

Isabel's concern deepened. "Do you know which room she's in?"

"She's in room 101, the corner room," Alice replied, nodding toward the hallway. "She asked for a quiet spot, away from everyone else."

"Thank you, Alice," Isabel said, her voice thoughtful. "I think I'll check on her, if that's okay."

Alice smiled softly. "Of course. I'm sure she could use a friendly face."

***

Before heading to the inn, Isabel made a quick stop at Sam's General Shop. She browsed the shelves until she found what she was looking for—a fresh cromboloni, soft and filled with sweet cream. She knew it was one of the best pastries in town, something that might bring a little comfort to someone feeling down. She carefully packed it in a small paper bag and headed back to the inn, her thoughts focused on how she could help Maya.