The Strongest Curse Master-Chapter 132: Sudden Storm

"Auntie Mandy, of course," Ace replied smoothly, and waving the UTV keys with a casul tone he added, "I get to keep the Polaris Ranger. I discussed the terms with her before entering the challenge. I will be driving back in it."

Ace’s confidence didn’t waver as he spoke, unfazed by their restrained response. He had expected as much—family feud or not, the adults wouldn’t stoop so low as to openly revel in a child’s misfortune. Their composed reactions reflected a sense of dignity that came with age and experience.

Mandy, however, found herself momentarily lost in thought. She felt a subtle shift in how she was perceived by the group. At her age, she occupied a unique space—straddling the line between teenager and adult. If she had attended college, she would be in her final year by now. That realization lingered in her mind as she noticed how the adults’ measured reactions contrasted with her own more exuberant response to Ace’s win.

"No, you aren’t, mister," Mary said sharply, snatching the UTV keys from Ace’s hand with a decisive motion. Her brows furrowed, and her lips pressed into a thin line. To her, as long as it had four wheels and cushioned seats, it was effectively a car—far too much for her son to be driving, let alone owning.

Ace watched his mother take the keys without protest, already resigned to the idea. He had intended to hand them over to his father anyway. Sighing, he shifted his weight, ready to suggest that they make the most of the buffet when Dan’s voice suddenly broke through the moment.

"We can’t allow it. That’s it—we’re starting an orchard bed and breakfast," Dan declared, his tone firm and full of resolve.

"Say what now?" Ace snapped his head toward his uncle, his brows shooting up in disbelief. He stared at Dan, half-wondering if he’d actually heard him correctly or if the stress of the evening had finally gotten to him.

"Dan, calm down," Alwin said, his voice steady but firm as he placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder. "They might’ve just said that to get under your skin. Think about it—two orchard bed and breakfasts in our town wouldn’t survive. Either they both die, or one devours the other. Think level-headedly," he urged, his gaze steady and imploring.

Alwin then turned to Mandy, who had been watching the exchange with wide eyes, and began to explain. His tone softened slightly, though frustration lingered in his expression. "A while ago, we were discussing our loan application with the local bank manager to develop the estate. During that discussion, we brought up our plans to start an orchard bed and breakfast." He paused, exhaling sharply as his face tightened.

"The Rockworths happened to pass by," Alwin continued, his voice tinged with irritation. "And just like that, they latched onto the idea. They even had the gall to boast about it to other guests as if it was their own idea." His fists clenched momentarily before he loosened them with visible effort.

Dan’s expression darkened further as Alwin spoke. "It didn’t sit well with him," Alwin concluded, glancing at his brother. "And now he’s set on opening our orchard bed and breakfast just to spite them."

Mandy’s gaze shifted between the two brothers, her lips pursed in thought. Ace, meanwhile, leaned back slightly, crossing his arms as he observed the heated exchange. Despite his disbelief, he couldn’t help but wonder how far his family was willing to go in this feud with the Rockworths. As such he could not help but grow curious as to what happened in the past for the two families to be at each other’s throats constantly.

However, his chain of thoughts was interrupted by a sharp, piercing wail of the town’s storm warning siren, which shattered the festive atmosphere, sending a wave of panic through the gala attendees. Inside the auditorium, heads turned in alarm, conversations cutting off mid-sentence as the crowd exchanged uneasy glances. Outside, where many were still enjoying the games, food stalls, and activities set up across the schoolyard, the response was immediate and chaotic.

Ace stared out the window at the once-clear night sky now swirling with dark, ominous clouds. "What the—?" he muttered.

"This wasn’t in the forecast!" Mary exclaimed, clutching his arm.

The head organizer quickly took the stage, her voice steady through the speakers. "Attention! A severe storm warning has been issued. The school gymnasium is a reinforced shelter designed for emergencies. Please make your way there calmly."

Despite her reassurances, murmurs of protest rose. Some insisted they’d be safer leaving. A local official stepped forward, cutting through the noise. "The roads will be hazardous. For your safety, we insist you shelter here. The gym is the safest place for everyone."

Outside, local authorities and school staff sprang into action, using megaphones to direct the crowds. "Attention! Severe storm warning! Head to the gymnasium immediately!" Volunteers and teachers moved through the yard, guiding families toward the building.

"Stay together!" a teacher shouted, her voice rising above the wind. Parents clutched their children as vendors abandoned their stalls, hastily packing their goods. Balloons tore free of their strings, twisting into the darkening sky.

Some attendees tried to head for their cars but were stopped by officers. "The storm’s coming fast. The gymnasium is your safest option," one officer insisted. Reluctantly, they turned back, hurrying with the others.

Inside, the gymnasium buzzed with tense energy as staff guided people to sit in designated areas, making the best of the available space and supplies. The heavy doors thudded shut once everyone was inside, sealing out the rising storm.

Visit freewёbnoνel.com for the best novel reading experience.

Ace’s family worked together to settle in. Dan and Alwin helped barricade the doors, while Mandy, clutching her plush doll, assisted with supplies. Mary and Pam assured the younger family members. "We’ll be fine," Pam said, smoothing Danny’s hair. "The building’s solid, and we’re all together."

Ace scanned the crowded gym. Spotting Lola and her parents near the entrance, he hesitated before walking over to help them settle in. He carried their supplies and guided them to an open space, offering a reassuring nod.

Outside, the storm intensified, winds howling and thunder cracking in the distance. Authorities completed one last sweep of the schoolyard, ensuring no one was left behind, before locking the doors and joining the others inside.

As the tempest loomed closer, Ace couldn’t shake the unease that churned in his gut. Something about the suddenness of the storm didn’t sit right with him. But for now, his focus remained on his family, helping to ensure everyone stayed safe as nature’s fury bore down on them.