18 Floors Above the Apocalypse

Chapter 574

Stella only realized now that the other patient in the hospital room was Reagan. Finally, it made sense why there were two patients in the ICU-they were waiting for her.

Reagan had been handpicked by Daniel to lead a special task force, and there was no way Stella could leave him to die. But if she saved him, she had to save Nicholas too, or she'd be accused of playing favorites.

Nicholas quickly said, "Niece, ol' Reagan here is the leader of the task force, and more importantly, he's the big boss's lifelong buddy. You gotta find a way to save him."

With that, he moved over to Reagan's side and spoke to his unconscious form, "Reagan, wake up, man. You gotta hang in there. Stella's back, and with her skills, she can definitely save you."

The hospital director choked up a bit but didn't say anything.

Stella didn't say a word, but she sneered inwardly. Cunning fox, always playing his games. In the same room, there was no way Stella could play favorites even if she wanted to. Well, it was for the best—at least things were even.

Stella inquired about Reagan's condition, and the director reported, "Reagan's got it a bit lighter, but the lack of medicine is a real problem." Pneumonia wasn't a rare disease; any ol' doc could treat it. It all came down to the meds!

Stella didn't linger, instructing the director to send someone with her to get the necessary medicine. The hospital wasn't far from home, just a few minutes by car. She didn't head to her own house but went straight next door and called out, "Dad?"

Her dog, Heartless, came bounding out, charging through the snow towards her, followed by a tumbling quartet of sticky rice balls. "Whine, whine." "Howl, howl."

Stella ignored them and headed straight for Daniel's room. Daniel was resting with a sprained back. "Come in," he said, his tone brief but his mood seemingly good.

Living in the big boss's house had its perks; they never ran out of coats or quilts. But Rosie had still sent over some silk blankets that were lighter and warmer, along with down liners that were perfect for Daniel and Vanessa to wear under their clothes, discreetly hidden from view. All these supplies were leftovers from Stella's stash, kept in a storage room just in case of emergencies.

life pretty darn comfy. Oh, and Heartless had brought its puppies to keep him company. And Cooper, well, he had a tablet, courtesy of

then later curled up in his bed with his mate, and now he'd brought it to Daniel to help pass the dull hours of recovery. Stella nearly choked-not out of jealousy, really. It was just that Cooper treasured that

seemed it preferred Daniel's company after just a few months. The bond between generations was

return, Daniel tried to get out of bed but Stella steadied him,

overly concerned. He wasn't made of tofu; he wasn't that fragile. To reassure Stella,

a quick check, Stella confirmed it wasn't very serious. A little rest and

recover.

Nicholas well after so many years of working together. "He has the nation's interests at heart, but his ambition is just as large. He usually plays

then added, "But your own

Stella replied honestly, "The

I

have enough for the people care about when they get sick." She used to worry only about Jasper and Rosie, but now there were more in her circle. Why waste life-saving drugs on someone who opposed her

be replenished, Daniel respected her decision. "You do

had her plan. "I'll go get

well; it could worsen at

she had pilfered from China, along with herbs beneficial for treating pneumonia.

meaty bones, she joined Daniel next door for dinner. Vanessa was tied up at the hospital and wouldn't be back until late. A sprain required calcium, so Stella brought out rib and corn soup, a light fish dish, egg and tofu soup, and some

Stella was about to stock the kitchen when Daniel spoke up, "Don't worry about it. Too many people come and go here, and they're all sharp. It's better if they don't know too much

"In the future, just come over to eat. I'll have Snow or Joy come

Those dogs were too clever, almost ready to

couple of cans of fruit and fish, along with a half-pound