Chapter 157: Derek Harlan Suddenly Let Out a Piercing Scream

"Ah!" Derek Harlan suddenly let out a piercing scream, his entire body convulsing as if struck by lightning.

Before anyone could react, he dropped to his knees before Elena Ward, cold sweat instantly beading on his forehead.

"What in the..." The surrounding villagers gaped in shock.

How had the arrogant groom, who had been strutting about moments ago, ended up kneeling before a young girl?

Elena's slender fingers rested lightly on Derek's wrist, but the pressure made him gasp in pain.

"Derek Harlan," Elena's voice was soft, yet it sent a shiver down his spine. "Did you think you could hit someone and just walk away?"

"N-No! I—I'll make it right!" Derek stammered, his face twisted in agony.

Daniel Ward stepped forward protectively, ready to shield his sister. He hadn't expected Elena to confront the village troublemaker so boldly.

Derek cursed his luck. If he'd known Elena was here, he would've thought twice before acting!

"I'll pay for the damages!" he gritted out through clenched teeth. "Ten—no, twenty dollars!"

The wedding party gasped. Twenty dollars? That was a fortune!

Grace and Henry Cooper quickly waved their hands. "That's too much!"

"Sis, if you don't take it, I'll stay kneeling!" Derek pleaded, sweat pouring down his face. He risked a glance at Elena—her faint, knowing smile made his stomach drop.

Reluctantly, Grace accepted the gift envelope. Only then did Derek dare to scramble to his feet, desperate to flee.

"Wait."

Elena's quiet command froze him in place.

"Y-Yes, sis? What else?" His forced smile looked more like a grimace.

Elena flexed her fingers, knuckles cracking ominously. "Remember this—treat my sister with respect from now on."

"Absolutely! I swear!" Derek nodded frantically.

"Now get lost." She flicked her wrist dismissively.

Derek didn't need telling twice. He practically threw himself onto the tractor, shouting hoarsely, "Drive! Now!"

The engine roared to life, kicking up a cloud of dust as the vehicle lurched forward. The villagers burst into laughter, assuming the groom was simply eager for his wedding night.

Only Derek knew the truth—he never wanted to set foot in Pinehaven Village again.