Chapter Five: The One-Dollar Mall

Existing shops would pay a percentage of sales rather than fixed rent. Twenty-two makers reserved units with three-phase power. “They are not filling empty boxes,” Lena said. “They create traffic for one another. Patients need food. Kitchens need suppliers. Makers need display and storage. Every use pays rent to another.” Marcus introduced an environmental report claiming widespread asbestos contamination in the garage, with remediation costs above six million. Noah studied the sampling map and laughed. “Twenty-five of twenty-six samples came from one pile of discarded insulation. That pile arrived last week.” Garage cameras showed the delivery truck. It belonged to an Obsidian contractor.