18 Floors Above the Apocalypse novel Chapter 632

What could Stella say? Austin was the epitome of a shrewd businessman. His promises were all pie in the sky, but his pitch was masterful.

Stella had big dreams of her own in the business world, but she knew she had to take it one step at a time. She felt the fire of ambition, even though she recognized her current limitations. Her plan was to proceed steadily and surely.

She dreamt of nurturing her two little girls, especially Poppy, though she knew it would take a lot of time and effort. Austin, however, seemed like a solid bet.

Given the gravity of the matter, Stella didn't immediately commit. "I'll think about it," she said.

As she left, dusk was settling in. Passing by the dog training facility, she decided to stop and visit Delta with her loyal hounds. Delta, fresh from a mission, bolted towards her, "Grandma!"

Stella frowned, counting her pack. One was missing. The German Shepherd was just filling in. The trainer explained, "Bella's expecting, so she's off-duty."

Snowflake was expecting her second litter – three boys and a girl. Time flies, and soon, the loyal hounds would be grandparents.

The trainer was overjoyed, another litter meant new recruits. He praised the German Shepherd, "Good dog!"

Cooper, the old grump, still didn't have any warmth for his son-in-law.

After some time at the training center, evening descended, and the town square screen lit up, playing music.

As Stella prepared to leave with her hounds, she spotted a familiar figure. Bran's long-lost girlfriend, the glitzy diamond lady, was back! And they were holding hands.

Wait, wasn't that Vera? Stella smirked inwardly; Vera had a knack for landing on her feet, always swift and decisive.

Rumors said Vera was battling depression, but now her smile was as bright as ever. Despite everything, they did look quite the pair.

Stella hid in the shadows, watching Bran work his charm. He had a way of moving through the crowd, deftly pulling Vera close to avoid a collision, "Careful." His hand lingered on her waist.

Curious, Poppy asked, "Uncle, didn't you like Rosie? How come you're with Vera now?"

Bran paused, chewing thoughtfully. "Liking someone doesn't pay the bills, and Rosie doesn't fancy me."

"But Uncle, you have such a bright future ahead. Why not persevere?"

Bran grew serious, "Poppy, whether Rosie likes me isn't the point. Stella and her husband would never agree. And if Rosie felt the same, maybe I'd take a chance."

Poppy persisted, "But if you never ask, how will you know if Stella might agree?"

Bran shot back with a pointed question, his voice tinged with skepticism. "Put yourself in her shoes, would you say yes?"