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 more

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

and could only walk and look around. She

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 found him earlier, but now she couldn't

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

and took everything she might

excited and held up three fingers. Just three pounds

pounds of rice might be a lot for others, but not for Stella. Not wanting to reveal her wealth, she

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

a rail, his eyes sunk

forward, Stella finally spoke, "Two pounds of white rice or three pounds of broken rice, which

a moment

out three pounds of

threat. He

noticed Jasper not far away. Rosie was picking a hairband, and he was holding Rosie's

having trouble choosing, "Which one

orange, or blue. Looking at what Jasper chose. It's all black, white, and gray. No wonder

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

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

he meant. Why did think she would need

enough for you two with a child. If you get pregnant again, it could be life-threatening. The child might not

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

of the condoms. She was wrapped from head

attention was diverted, and she seemed to forget that Jasper was standing

held up one finger, "Five