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.

it was certainly busier than during the flood, with people coming and going. However, there were more onlookers, and very few successful

stalls were varied, but the needs of the stall owners were remarkably consistent: food, coal,

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

was filled with pet supplies and toys, deworming medicine, fur conditioners, grooming tools, nail clippers, etc. If it were before the disaster, he would be making a fortune. But

dog since she

a chew ball, a leash, a grooming tool, and deworming medicine

didn't mind spending on the dog and took everything she might need, "How

up three fingers. Just

not for Stella. Not wanting to reveal her wealth,

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

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

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

aback for a moment before excitedly saying,

out three pounds of broken rice from Arcadia

a threat. He gave

not far away. Rosie was picking a

trouble choosing, "Which

like red, pink, orange, or blue. Looking at what Jasper chose. It's all black, white, and gray. No wonder Rosie didn't

a shrewd man, saw the protective stance of the man behind the woman and came up with an idea. He stealthily moved closer

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

meant. Why did think she

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

"Miss, buy some to keep at home. They can be used repeatedly, guaranteed to

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

she seemed to forget that Jasper was standing

held up one finger, "Five pounds of white rice or