What a coincidence. Not only did they choose the same building, but Mark also ended up in Room 303.
That made her breathe a sigh of relief. At least she didn't have to deal with a troublesome neighbor.
She chuckled, "Mark indeed has a good eye. My relatives just happened to buy room 301 and 302."
"It's all thanks to your reminder that we were able to act quickly. Otherwise, we might not have even been able to secure the apartment."
It was a mutual benefit. If it wasn't for Mark's reminder, even with her high credit score, Stella could not have had the chance to select a villa.
On the way, Christian was discussing the installation of solar panels and rooftop gardening.
With over a hundred people, it wasn't easy to arrange for food and drinks, waste management, and other necessities.
Upon arriving at the housing complex, Stella said, "Mark, thank you for taking care of us over the past year. We'll be moving to Newtown in a few days."
Mark was taken aback, "So soon?"
Each day felt incredibly long, but looking back, it seemed as if it had passed in the blink of an eye. They had been at Eastwood Eden for a year now, and during that time, the place had experienced several crises. Without their help, Eastwood Eden might have fallen.
"When are you leaving?" Mark asked. "You've done so much for Eastwood Eden, we'd like to give you a proper send-off."
Stella politely declined, "We're all part of the community, so there's no need for thanks. Besides, living here feels like home."
If it wasn't for the pressing circumstances, they really wouldn't want to move.
Mark insisted to express their thanks. If it wasn't for their help, Eastwood Eden wouldn't have even had the chance to live in Newtown.
Stella and Jasper weren't moving just yet; they needed to gather some more resources first.
Jasper reminded, "Newtown has factories, and it's not far from the agricultural institute's plantation. There are plenty of job opportunities. You might want to keep an eye out for job postings."
There was still plenty of time before they had to go. After a nap, the three of them went out to gather soil.
Before the area was developed, it was fertile farmland, and the soil was still quite rich. They dug and loaded the soil into the truck, storing it in Arcadia.
After a good night's sleep, they began disassembling their home, not even leaving the doors and windows behind. They left without giving Mark a chance to throw a farewell party.
Jasper drove the truck, while Stella took the SUV.
Luna was heartbroken, chasing after the car. Cooper was cold-hearted, putting on an aloof act - don't fall for me!
Eastwood Eden stood alone. This Eden in the apocalypse was about to be abandoned soon, and who could predict the future?
Two cars, one behind the other, drove into the new villas in Newtown.
Stella was quick, but there were others who were quicker. Several high-end villas had already begun renovations, with workers arriving in succession.
Jasper was worried about tiring Stella out, "Should we hire help?"
"We can take it slow."
They didn't have much else to do, might as well exercise while working.
They weren't in a rush to renovate; they first built up the outer walls, marking their territory.
Stella brought out the bed and furniture. The toilet wasn't fixed yet, so they had to use a portable one instead.
Engaged in physical labor, they needed a solid meal. So, they served up a wholesome feast and ate heartily. Satisfied, they began digging the foundation, starting with the triangular plot of land.
Life was meant to be lived, Stella wasn't in a hurry, taking breaks now and then. Jasper, on the other hand, was very efficient at physical labor. Not only did he dig wide, but he also dug deep.
When the stone wall was built, even a big truck could crash into it without causing it to collapse.
Stella couldn't help but tease him, "You're not just building a wall. You're building a fortress."
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