Anna's POV
Marcus studied me with such intensity that I had to resist the urge to look away.
"That building matters to you."
It wasn't a question, but I answered anyway.
"It's where my mother grew up." I swallowed hard against the unexpected tightness in my throat. "If it's going to be demolished for development, I need to try and buy it back first."
Marcus leaned casually against the wall, his arms crossed. "Given the redevelopment plans, the property's value has likely increased significantly since the auction. The new owner might not be willing to sell."
"I understand," I said quietly. "But I have to try. My mother's lost so much already her parents, her husband, and nearly her family's company before I stepped in. If I can give her back even one piece of her past… her home…" I trailed off, realizing how much of my heart I was exposing. "I'll pay whatever it takes."
