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.

certainly busier than during the flood, with people coming and going. However, there were

stall owners were remarkably consistent: food, coal, or medicine. They came every day but left

wasn't sure what she wanted and could only walk and look around. She stopped at a

a pet clinic before the disaster. The stall was filled with pet supplies and toys, deworming medicine, fur

dog since she hadn't

a teething toy, a chew ball, a leash, a grooming tool, and

took everything she might

a bit excited and held up three fingers. Just three

for others, but not for Stella. Not wanting to reveal her wealth, she didn't rush to accept, but instead pretended

fearing she wouldn't agree, hurriedly reduced the price, "Two pounds. I really

rail, his eyes sunk deep into their sockets, giving

Angela and the others moved forward, Stella finally spoke, "Two pounds of white

taken aback for a moment before excitedly saying, "Three pounds of broken

of looking for her purse, took out three pounds of broken rice from

fearing that someone would see it and pose a threat. He gave Stella

was picking a hairband, and he was holding Rosie's hand, occasionally glancing in

having trouble

her were ugly. Children liked bright colors, like red, pink, orange, or blue.

woman and came up with an idea. He stealthily moved closer and asked, "Miss, need any protections?" Protections? Stella was a bit confused

took one out of his pocket and waved it in front of Stella, "It's genuine, and the quality is definitely

was what he meant. Why did think she would need

a child. If you get pregnant again, it could be

eagerly promoting his product, "Miss, buy some to keep at home. They can be used repeatedly, guaranteed to be worth your

ask the price of the condoms. She was wrapped from head to toe with only her eyes exposed; there was no question of being embarrassed. So, out

seemed to forget that Jasper

up one finger, "Five pounds of