** The Building Project **

Mark's concentrated movements filled the dojo, each strike carrying the weight of his determination to master martial arts.

The rhythmic sound of his precise strikes echoed within the serene space, his unwavering focus painting a picture of dedication.

Observing from the side-lines, Amy monitored Mark's progress.

As he continued his routine, she interjected, determined to inform him of the ongoing developments.

"Mark," Amy's voice cut through the room, her expression void of emotion.

"You should take a moment. There's news about the new app."

Mark paused, turning his attention to Amy, his demeanour transitioning from intense concentration to mild curiosity. "What's happening?"

"The app," Amy continued, her tone flat. "It's gaining attention. Users are responding positively."

Mark's interest was piqued. "What kind of response?"

"Positive," Amy replied, her delivery lacking any inflection. "People are finding it intuitive."

Mark nodded, a faint smile touching his lips. "Good to hear. It's promising."

Amy's eyes followed Mark as he resumed his training, her thoughts focused on gaining his acknowledgment.

She noted the slight shift in his expression, a tiny indicator of satisfaction at the app's success.

As Mark's movements echoed through the room, Amy lingered, silently observing.

Her mind was consumed by a creeping desire for Mark's attention and approval.

The conversation about the app's potential didn't elicit any emotions within her, but she recognized its significance for Mark and their joint venture at EDEN Technology.

Mark's intense training session concludes with beads of sweat cascading down his forehead, his muscles aching from exertion.

As he takes a long, rejuvenating drink from his water bottle, his mind wanders towards something he's been contemplating for a while – securing a home that offers not just comfort but impenetrable safety for himself and Amy.

Settling onto a bench in the training area, he pulls out his tablet, delving into a realm of architectural blueprints and cutting-edge security technologies.

His search spans encrypted surveillance systems, biometric access controls, and state-of-the-art firewalls, all tailored to provide an unparalleled level of protection and privacy.

The more Mark explores, the clearer his vision becomes.

He envisions a home embedded with the latest in security, a sanctuary that shields them from prying eyes and potential threats.

His determination to secure such a haven for both himself and Amy emanates from a deep sense of responsibility and care.

Amidst his research, Mark finds himself mentally walking through corridors of an envisioned fortress.

He envisions a space that's not just impenetrable but also comfortable, a place where Amy can feel safe and secure, where their privacy remains intact.

The more he delves into these plans, the more resolute Mark becomes.

The time has come to invest in their security, to create a haven that reflects their shared commitment to safety and tranquillity.

With every blueprint scrutinized and every security measure reviewed, Mark's resolve strengthens.

Their home will not just be a place to reside but a bastion of protection, a testament to his dedication to safeguarding their lives.

As Mark closes his tablet, he feels a surge of determination.

The plan is set in motion, and he's ready to ensure that their new home will be a fortress, impervious to any intrusions, providing a secure refuge for both himself and Amy.

---

Mark arrived at the site of a sprawling modern mansion, an architectural marvel that stood tall against the backdrop of a serene landscape.

The facade, a fusion of sleek lines and expansive glass, exuded an aura of futuristic sophistication.

Upon entering, Mark was greeted by the grandeur of a meticulously designed living space.

Polished marble floors sprawled beneath his feet, leading to a vast open-plan area filled with natural light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The main floor boasted a spacious living area, carefully furnished with tech-integrated amenities and plush seating arrangements.

Mark's eyes glided across the room, envisioning moments of relaxation and innovation in this modern haven.

The adjacent kitchen, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, beckoned to his culinary aspirations, while a sleek dining area offered a picturesque view through sliding glass doors leading to a balcony.

Ascending the staircase, Mark explored the upper floors, each bedroom an embodiment of comfort and contemporary design.

The large windows allowed glimpses of the surrounding landscape, inviting the outside world into this sanctuary.

Mark's excitement grew as he descended into the underground basement—a hidden sanctuary brimming with technological marvels.

This subterranean realm was equipped with servers and tech compartments, a testament to his vision of a fully connected, secure, and innovative home.

Venturing further, Mark discovered a fitness enthusiast's dream—a gym equipped with cutting-edge workout gear.

Adjacent to it, a sauna whispered promises of relaxation, while the dojo, nestled in a quiet corner, echoed his dedication to martial arts mastery.

Stepping outside, the mansion's grounds unveiled an expansive pool, a centrepiece of outdoor indulgence.

The landscape seamlessly integrated with the modern architecture, inviting Mark to envision moments of leisure and entertainment in this opulent retreat.

As Mark left, the mansion lingered in his thoughts—a vision of a future where technology and luxury coalesced seamlessly into a home that mirrored his aspirations and ideals.

The real estate agent had guided them through the amenities, and Mark, deeply impressed, swiftly contacted the agency.

"I'd like to purchase this property," Mark declared with certainty.

A substantial upfront payment of £20 million sealed the deal.

The confirmation arrived promptly.

Mark would start moving in the next day.

The excitement brewed within him as he realized the significance of this move.

For the first time, he and Amy would inhabit a home befitting their stature, a far cry from the cramped apartment they had called home.

Mark's heart fluttered with anticipation as he envisioned their new life unfolding in this lavish abode.

The prospect of creating a haven for his little family filled him with joy and contentment.

---

As Mark and Amy journey home, their conversation buzzes in Mark's head, since communicating telepathic has been available since the implant.

The journey seemingly unremarkable yet filled with a father's gentle appreciation for his growing daughter vibrates incessantly.

A smile, ever so slightly concaving a dimple in his cheek.

Abruptly, Mark freezes.

Completely stationary.

Unable to lift a single breathe from his lunges, as his eyes frantically quiver causing Nystagmus, (the medical condition when your eyes often involuntarily vibrate either horizontally or vertically).

Liquid sheets seem to converge causing a thing film of tears glossing his eyes and cascading towards the canthus (the corner of your eye).

And there he stood.

Only for a split second as he watched the scene in front of him.

Within his eyesight a mother and daughter happily playing on the pavement.

Right within Mark's line of vision.

Seemingly nothing, and yet to Mark, it caused his entire body to shudder and coil inwards.

The weight of Mark's should and heart caused the entire earth to tremble with the sheer mass of what he was carrying with him, and yet it would not be the final time the world felt this strain.

Very quickly data was being transmitted to Amy and almost instantly she picked up in the sharp neuron sparks elicited from Mark, and as she was about to voice her concerns she also froze.

Staring.

Deep at Mark, unable to comprehend what had happened.

Almost like a glitch in her system, prompting her to frantically check lines of code and yet there was nothing...

Nothing but an inconspicuous '>'.

As she regained focus so had Mark, and as if the last few seconds never occurred, his face was stone.

Completely unmarred by the previous moments, not an ounce of scarring could be seen when looking through his eyes, gazing toward his soul.

As if all the memories had been buried so deep, that even Mark's own body couldn't register the glitch that had occurred

And so they continued, as if nothing had happened.