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.

busier than during the flood, with people coming

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

what she wanted and could only walk and look around. She stopped at a

used to run a pet clinic before the disaster. The stall was filled with pet supplies and toys, deworming

anything for the dog since she hadn't found him earlier, but now she couldn't

a chew ball, a leash, a grooming

the dog and took everything

up three

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

as a rail, his eyes sunk deep into their sockets, giving

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

aback for a moment before excitedly saying, "Three pounds

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

would see it and pose a threat. He gave Stella the items and explained how to use the deworming medicine as he packed up his stall, ready to

not far away. Rosie was picking a hairband, and he was

having trouble choosing, "Which

liked bright colors, like red, pink, orange, or blue. Looking at what Jasper chose. It's all black, white, and gray. No wonder

man behind the woman and came up

his pocket and waved it

was what he meant.

enough for you two with a child. If you get pregnant again, it could be life-threatening. The child might

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

the price of the condoms. She was wrapped from head to toe with

seemed to forget that

vendor held up one finger, "Five