“There is no more time, Graham,” Sterling said. “The primary lender initiated foreclosure proceedings three weeks ago.”

Gloria looked like she had been struck.

She sank back into her leather chair, her chest rising and falling rapidly.

“But we can pay it,” Gloria said, her eyes darting around the room as if searching for an escape. “We will get a loan. We have connections. The bank will work with us.”

“The bank doesn’t own the debt anymore, Gloria,” I said.

Gloria stopped breathing for a second.

She looked at me, her eyes narrowing as the truth began to settle in her mind.

“What did you say?” she asked.

“I bought the note,” I said. “Through my holding company, Belmont Heights Holdings. I paid the outstanding balance in full last Tuesday.”

“You?” Gloria laughed, a high, desperate sound. “With what money? You don’t have the kind of money to buy a Highland Park mortgage, Jocelyn. You’re a housewife.”

“I suggest you look at the signature on the acquisition document, Mrs. Ralston,” Sterling said.

He turned the page of the folder, pointing to the bottom line of the purchase agreement.