I have a 2000 Ford Mustang 3.8L

i have this ticking noise kinda behind the water pump. I removed the serpentine belt today to see if the noise goes away, which it does. When the belt is off the noise is gone when running. I’m really stumped. I was wondering if maybe this could be noise coming from one of the rod bearings or main bearings in the bottom end. Maybe possible it could be a lifter? Any help would be amazing because I’m tired of hearing this noise. There is no noticeable performance changes either. Seems worse when in drive not park. Please help me lol hehehe