18 Floors Above the Apocalypse

Chapter 110

Facing his invitation, Stella flatly declined, "No thank you, we're just civilians."

Evan shifted his gaze to Jasper, saying, "What about you? If I'm not mistaken, you have a military background. The country needs people like you now. Have you considered joining us?" Rosie, taken aback, instinctively clung to his arm, "Jasper."

Jasper, calming his sister, responded, "I've been discharged due to an injury. Our parents are dead, and I have to take care of my little sister."

"I'm sorry," said Evan, somewhat regretful. "If you change your mind, you can always find me at the police station."

They got in the car and left. With plenty of time to spare, they headed to the mall.

Throughout the journey, Jasper was solemn and silent. Although he was usually a man of few words, Stella could tell something was off. He seemed a bit downcast. Could Evan's words have affected him?

It was possible. Military men were known for their spirit of sacrifice and dedication, and his skills were definitely up to par. His discharge due to injury could just be a ruse.

He probably had deeper secrets, and only retired because he had no choice. Yet, the responsibilities and mission of a soldier were still tormenting him.

People always had to make choices. You can't please everyone.

Rosie held her brother's hand, a smile appearing involuntarily in her eyes.

Stella couldn't help but lower her head, just as Cooper looked up, his eyes reflecting her full image.

Cody and Lukas were fooling around in front, with Angela following behind.

The mall was crowded, and for safety reasons, Stella put the dog in her backpack and entered the bustling market.

It was her first time here, but Cody and the others had been here several times and were familiar with the place.

during the flood, with people coming and going. However, there were more onlookers, and very few

of the stall owners were remarkably consistent: food, coal,

wasn't sure what she wanted and could only

veterinarian who used to run a pet clinic before the disaster. The stall was filled with pet supplies and toys, deworming medicine, fur conditioners, grooming tools, nail clippers, etc. If it

anything for the dog since she hadn't

a teething toy, a chew ball, a leash, a

and took everything

bit excited and held up three fingers.

of rice might be a lot for others, but not for Stella. Not wanting to reveal her wealth, she didn't rush to accept, but

hurriedly reduced the price, "Two pounds. I really can't go any lower. I have a child to

eyes sunk deep into

"Two pounds of white rice or three pounds

a moment before excitedly

out three pounds of broken rice

and pose a threat. He gave Stella the items and explained how to use the deworming medicine as he packed up his

Stella noticed Jasper not far away. Rosie was picking a

Rosie was having trouble choosing, "Which one looks

red, pink, orange, or blue. Looking at what Jasper chose.

vendor, a shrewd man, saw the protective stance of the man behind the woman and came up with an idea. He stealthily moved closer and asked, "Miss, need any protections?" Protections? Stella was a bit

and waved it in front of Stella, "It's genuine, and the quality is definitely

he meant. Why did think she would

pregnant again, it could be life-threatening.

some to keep at home. They can be used repeatedly, guaranteed to be worth your

would never use them, she decided to ask the price of the condoms. She was wrapped from head to toe with only her eyes exposed; there was no question of being

to forget that Jasper was standing behind

one finger, "Five pounds of white rice