Rebirth after the apocalypse: I create a new world with space!

That is why his concern at this moment was not at all polite or tentative, but a genuine expression of care.

Li Luo picked up the teacup, her fingertips lightly touching the warm rim. A hint of gentleness instantly softened her cool eyes, and even her tone softened as she slowly replied:

"Thank you for your concern, Uncle. My family is all fine. The security at the Jinling base is solid, and they are all capable of protecting themselves. They are living a relatively stable life. The logistical supply is adequate, and there is no shortage of food, oil, or basic supplies. I call them every few days to let them know I'm safe. They always tell me not to be reserved here and to get along well with you."

Upon hearing this, Lu Zhengde smiled and nodded, his eyes filled with even more warmth. He deliberately avoided mentioning that he had secretly been keeping an eye on the family.

A sense of propriety has always been ingrained in him, and he didn't want this concern to be tainted with any hint of prying. He simply followed the conversation, his tone full of gratitude and appreciation:

"That's good, that's good. I'm relieved to hear that they're safe and sound. Speaking of which, we should thank you properly, thank you and your family. More than a year ago, Jingcheng lost contact with us, and our whole family was so worried that we couldn't eat or sleep. Later we found out that he was in danger at the Jinling base at that time. It was thanks to your family that you took care of him and helped him get through the most difficult period."

He paused, then raised his hand and gently patted Lu Jingcheng's shoulder, his tone full of relief and gratitude:

“Jingcheng is a stubborn and strong-willed child who always wants to shoulder his burdens alone. If it weren’t for your family taking care of him, we don’t know how much suffering he would have endured, or even if he would have lived to see us again. Our Lu family will remember this kindness and never forget it in this lifetime.”

As he spoke, his gaze toward Li Luo grew even gentler, his gratitude utterly genuine.

Li Luo's eyes curved slightly at the corners, her tone sincere and natural, without a hint of seeking credit:

"Uncle, you flatter me. It's just what we should do in these chaotic times. My parents always say that we should help each other out whenever we can. Besides, it was fate that we were able to lend a hand when Cheng was in trouble. Moreover, he is an upright and reliable person, and my parents like him very much."

"You can't say that." Lu Zhengde waved his hand with a smile, his tone still earnest. "In chaotic times, you can't see into people's hearts. To be able to sincerely lend a helping hand without asking for anything in return is more precious than anything else. What's more, you not only take care of Jingcheng, but you've also been leading your team to protect the base and contribute to protecting so many innocent people. You're such a good girl. It's Jingcheng's good fortune to have met you, and it's also a good fortune for our Lu family."

He looked at Li Luo, his eyes filled with genuine approval and tenderness, his tone gentle yet firm:

“Good child, from now on, treat this place as your home and us as your family. Whether you have any difficulties, or your parents need a helping hand, or even if you just want to send them some scarce supplies from the base, just tell us. Don’t be shy. If Jingcheng dares to bully you, don’t tolerate him. Just tell me and I’ll take care of him for you.”

Li Luo's fingers, which were holding the teacup, curled slightly. A faint blush suddenly appeared on the tips of her ears. The remaining restraint between her cool and aloof brows was completely gone, replaced by a soft warmth.

She looked up at Lu Zhengde, her tone sincere yet somewhat shy, and answered softly:

"Thank you, Uncle. I feel much more at ease knowing that you said that."