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 and going.

goods on the stalls were varied, but the needs of the stall owners were remarkably consistent: food, coal, or medicine. They

wanted and could only

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

dog since she hadn't found him earlier, but now she

a chew ball, a leash, a grooming tool, and deworming medicine that hadn't expired and was

dog and took everything she might need, "How much

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

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

as a rail, his eyes sunk deep into

moved forward, Stella finally spoke, "Two pounds of white

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

pretext of looking for her purse, took out three pounds of broken rice from Arcadia and put it in

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

to leave, Stella noticed Jasper not far away. Rosie was picking a hairband, and he

trouble choosing,

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

to help Rosie choose, when the 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 confused and didn't react for a

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

meant. Why did think she would need

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

was eagerly promoting his product, "Miss, buy some to keep at

price of the condoms. She was wrapped from head to toe with only her eyes exposed; there was no question

diverted, and she seemed to forget

up one finger, "Five pounds of white rice