In this moment, Fang Yuqing huddled within the confines of her rented residence, tightly ensconced under two blankets. Although the thermostat was set at 40 degrees Celsius, the indoor temperature struggled to reach even 0 degrees. Trembling from the cold, she felt icy drafts permeating the air and infiltrating her blankets.
Upon receiving the photos sent by Zhang Yi, Fang Yuqing's eyes widened in disbelief. In this frigid weather, Zhang Yi nonchalantly donned light sleepwear while comfortably indulging in steak and red wine. They both resided in the same building; why did it feel like they inhabited different worlds? The sight of the delicious steak on the table, accompanied by a bottle of exquisite red wine, caused Fang Yuqing's mouth to water.
As an elite White Lotus and savvy woman, she possessed knowledge about these luxurious items. Judging from what Zhang Yi was indulging in, the steak was undoubtedly authentic top-grade Wagyu, and the French red wine on his side was at least a second-growth, costing no less than thirty thousand. While she shivered in the extreme cold, Zhang Yi reveled in comfort, sparking a jealousy that consumed Fang Yuqing.
She promptly messaged Zhang Yi, "How wonderful! I also desire steak and red wine!" Her insinuations were glaringly apparent. Considering Zhang Yi's past behavior, he would have certainly taken the initiative to deliver steak and wine to her.
To her surprise, Zhang Yi responded with a cheerful tone, "If you want it, go buy it at the supermarket!"
Fang Yuqing's expression froze. Wasn't this an absurd suggestion? With temperatures plummeting to sixty or seventy degrees below freezing outside, exposing any inch of bare skin risked frostbite. How could she, a delicate girl, make such an unreasonable request? Furious, she retorted, "Zhang Yi, you are not a true man! You miss such a good opportunity to showcase your generosity, hmph!"
At this moment, Fang Yuqing still maintained a semblance of dignity. Though she yearned for steak and high-quality wine, she viewed Zhang Yi merely as a fish in her pond. Furthermore, she believed this snow disaster would be short-lived, hence she strived to maintain her haughty goddess image, refraining from directly asking Zhang Yi for sustenance.
Ignoring Fang Yuqing, Zhang Yi shifted his attention to other chat groups, anticipating some entertainment. Upon entering the residential community owners' group, he noticed Mrs. Lin from the neighborhood committee urging everyone to remain calm and stay indoors.
"Don't panic, it's just a sudden drop in temperature, and it will pass in two or three days."
"Do not engage in looting; trust our government."
"Our neighborhood committee will find ways to help you through this snow disaster. Please follow orders and avoid causing trouble for the authorities."
However, some homeowners expressed dissent.
"With such heavy snow, who knows when it will stop? It's inconvenient to go out now. Shouldn't we stock up on supplies at home?"
"Exactly, or else we'll have to go out and buy groceries. Prices are bound to skyrocket these days."
Mrs. Lin immediately intensified her tone.
"What are you all doing? Aren't you causing chaos? Looting will only drive up prices, and everyone will end up paying more for food."
"If anyone is caught hoarding supplies, I won't hesitate to report them for disturbing public order!"
Observing Mrs. Lin acting like a leader in the group, Zhang Yi couldn't help but sneer. Today marked the first day of the Ice Age, and due to the extreme cold, supermarket supplies remained largely untouched. The threat from Mrs. Lin dissuaded many from venturing out to buy groceries, leading to foreseeable consequences.
At this juncture, Mrs. Lin suddenly targeted Zhang Yi in the group, addressing him directly.
"Little Zhang, you already hoarded a lot at home. With the severe snow disaster, you shouldn't become a negative example."
"Stay at home these few days. If I catch you going out to shop, don't blame Mrs. Lin for lacking mercy!"
Zhang Yi's expression darkened. This old woman, because he didn't give in to her demands last time, harbored resentment and now sought to exploit the situation. Unfortunately for her, a neighborhood committee member held no sway over Zhang Yi now.
He replied with a sarcastic tone, "Mrs. Lin, the duration of this snow disaster remains uncertain. If it lingers, and people run out of food, can you bear that responsibility?"
With this question, Zhang Yi echoed the sentiments of many. Displeased with Mrs. Lin's words, people hesitated to contradict her due to her committee status.
Encouraged by Zhang Yi, someone else stepped forward to voice their concerns.
"Yeah, if you won't let us stockpile supplies, who will be responsible if we go hungry?"
"Can you shoulder that responsibility?"
Seeing a collective opposition against her in the group, Mrs. Lin began to panic. Simultaneously, she harbored an increased resentment towards Zhang Yi. How dare he openly contradict her in the owners' group? This was a clear lack of respect!
"Don't worry; our neighborhood committee can assure everyone that supplies will not be lacking! The snow disaster will pass soon."
"As for you, Zhang Yi, don't incite discord during such times. Your behavior is against the law!"
Cowering in her home, Mrs. Lin gritted her teeth, malevolently adding, "Zhang Yi is truly ignorant. Find a way to deal with him; perhaps arrest him for a few days to teach him a lesson."
Zhang Yi burst into laughter. In such dire circumstances, this old woman sought to wield authority, exploiting her meager power. It was laughable.
"Oh my, I can't bear such a lofty accusation. Rest assured, it's so cold outside that I won't step out. Do as you please!"
Having already stocked up on supplies, Zhang Yi saw no need to join the chaotic crowds in supermarkets. Those who believed Mrs. Lin's deceitful words would soon face the consequences.
Inwardly lamenting the impending doom for countless people due to freezing and starvation, Zhang Yi remained resolute in his decision to survive. The lives and deaths of others held no significance to him.