18 Floors Above the Apocalypse

Chapter 462

Her question hit him like a punch to the gut, but Bran answered honestly, "Construction. Hauling bricks."

Stella sized him up, noting the scars on his face and hands-evidence of a hard-fought survival. In the face of natural disasters, everyone was equal, even a tycoon's son.

She didn't pry about his life since they'd parted ways. Even if recounted with a smile, the tales were likely steeped in brutal truths.

"How about we treat you to a meal when you're off?" she offered.

At the mention of food, Bran's eyes lit up. "Barbecue?"

"You wish. After all these years of disasters, and you're still dreaming of a feast?" Despite her words, the joy of reunion was undeniable. "Rosie's been working at the plantation. I'll see if I can scrounge up some spices so you can indulge a bit." Bran perked up. "How are Rosie and your hubby doing?"

She gave him her address. "Doing alright. Swing by when you're free."

Bran lived in Area C and spoke his mind. "Sis, I'm free on the weekend."

Alright then. A weekend it is. They'd have themselves a proper bash.

lean but still proud. He looked much better than the last time she saw him rummaging through trash. He seemed to have found a solid reason to keep living. He no longer ran away from

Station now housed over twenty thousand souls, with a hospital, a salt plant, a food factory, water purification, and plantations all

needed emotional ties and interactions. Planning a meal together sounded pretty good. Jasper suggested, "How about we

it up for

son and husband's health with regular practice. Monkey, all smiles, appreciated his wife's increasing kindness. He eagerly accepted the dinner invite, pondering what special

gathering to the evening. Ten years post-disaster, there was no hope for hot pot seasonings. The submarine

a slab of

meat

Stella dared not

wasn't

and chilies-plants readily available from the plantation where Rosie worked, ensuring they had what they needed.

He was helpful and even pitched in with the prep. Miranda and her son picked the veggies

bringing a pound of fish cakes. He had long since shed any pretense

Monkey's gaze shifted. That was his sister there. Bran

Bran respected only those stronger than him, like Stella and Jasper, who had seen his countless humiliations. In front of them,

everyone like a client, always leaving room

earning cash. Bran's mood instantly lifted. "If you're gonna flatter me, lay it on thick." It had been ages since anyone had praised him. Oh, how he missed his diamond-studded slippers, the

with fermented black beans, and garlic chili sauce. The aroma