Page 84 of Unmasking Mr. Crown

She extended her hand. “Hannah Hunt with Nashville Now magazine. I’m sure our one-point-two million followers, as well as your wife, would love to hear more about your recent infidelities.”

Hart puffed out his chest. “Ma’am, you do not want to tango with me.”

“Try me,” Hannah countered with a saccharine smile.

“Natalie, please …”

Hart reached out to her with his non-injured hand. Natalie knocked it away in disgust.

"Let me make this abundantly clear. Do not call, text, email, or contact me in any way, shape, or form ever again, you lying piece of shit."

“This chapter of your life is now closed. But don't worry. Big famous author like you? Well, you'll probably be writing a new one before the sun sets. I'd stick to sci-fi though. Clearly, romance is not your genre,” Hannah said.

Hart’s gaze—equal parts anger and disbelief—bounced between the two women. With a huff, he turned and disappeared into the crowd. Natalie and Hannah stood in silence for a moment.

“We’re gonna end up villains in his next book,” Hannah said matter-of-factly. “I sure hope he spells my name correctly. So many people leave the h off the end.”

Natalie touched the woman’s arm. “I honestly can’t thank you enough.”

Hannah laughed. “Thank me? I should be thanking you. This cover piece is going to be amazing.”

Natalie recoiled at this comment.

“No, no—I don’t mean in a scandalous way. Not scandalous for you, anyway. No, I have an idea of exactly how to approach this story. And I’d love to talk more with you about it, but obviously now is not the time.”

Natalie turned to survey the scene once more. The fire department, still hard at work. Restaurant patrons playing vehicular Tetris, trying to maneuver their cars through the confusion. Out on the street, crews from local news stations assembled their gear.

“The good news is that my photographer got some great shots before all hell broke loose, especially one of you and your father. Talk about a money shot.”

“I’d love copies of everything when you have the time.”

“Absolutely. When I get a rough draft typed up, I’ll send it your way. You weigh in and we’ll go from there.”

“You have no idea how much I appreciate this. Thank you.”

Hannah extended her hand again. “I give you my word that I’ll spin this whole situation into a positive, with zero mention of Hart Lockwood. As if I’d give him the satisfaction.”

The two chatted for another minute before parting ways. Natalie turned to rejoin her father and Kate but the waving arm of Hans emerging from the crowd caught her eye. The reprieve from doom she’d felt during her exchange with Hannah had dissipated. Natalie walked toward him, hoping her face and body gave nothing away.

All I can do is be honest and see where the chips fall.

Be calm, rational, and professional.

“Ms. Powell, I never asked if you’re okay.”

“I’m fine.”

Relief flooded the manager’s long face. “Thank goodness. Please, please accept my most sincere apologies.”

“No need to apologize. It was an accident.”

“A freak one at that, I’m sure our security cameras will confirm. I’m just thankful there were no major injuries to our guests.”

Security cameras? I didn’t even think about that.

It’s just a matter of time before word of me and Hart gets out.

Oh my God! I’m gonna get sued into oblivion when they see I started the chain reaction!