Chapter Two: A Construction Site Funded with $2,600

Comments raced across the livestream. Other designers whose names Obsidian had buried posted old emails. At last, Marcus’s composure cracked. “One ruined house won’t save you,” he whispered. “Real estate isn’t pretty pictures. Interest will eat you alive, and you’ll beg for your job.” “You’re half right. Real estate isn’t pictures. That’s why you can’t understand what I’m building.” Seven Sycamore opened on day thirty. The burned foyer had become a dark memory wall. Sunlight entered through the restored arch, and the old walnut floor gave every step weight. The studio already had tenants; a rain garden reduced annual drainage fees. Listed at $259,000, the house received seven offers that day. The highest was $281,000 cash.