Chapter 555

The scene was explosive and intense. On set, Austin completed a dangerous explosion scene in one take. Many in the industry fear the risks and injuries involved, often opting for stunt doubles. But Austin rarely used a stunt double, tackling dangerous scenes himself.

This was Natalie's first time witnessing such a perilous stunt up close. She stood by, holding her breath, her heart pounding uncontrollably. The scene was terrifying; seeing it in person was even more shocking.

After the director called "cut," Natalie immediately rushed to Austin. Concerned, she asked, "Did you get hurt?"

The special effects makeup made it hard to tell if he was bleeding or injured. Austin smiled reassuringly. "I'm fine, no injuries. Don't worry."

Hank approached with a serious expression. "Did you injure your leg? Let's get you to the car and check it out." Hank had known Austin for many years, seeing him almost daily. He could spot an injury instantly, where others might miss it.

Austin glanced at Hank with a wry smile, surprised Hank had noticed. Then he glanced at Natalie, whose face had gone pale. "It's probably just a scraped knee! A bit of iodine will do."

"Should we go to the hospital? The scene is over, and there's no more filming today until the afternoon. We have time," Natalie said quickly. As a woman, she couldn't assist Austin in the car, and she still didn't know the full extent of his injury. She was deeply concerned, both as his assistant and a fan.

"It's not that serious, don't worry," Austin said gently. His expression didn't betray his injury. Natalie nodded in relief.

Hank noticed Natalie's worried glance and boarded the car. Austin followed. Natalie noticed Austin seemed to favor his left leg as he entered, suggesting the injury was to his right leg.

Inside the car, Hank examined Austin's bloodied knee with a grim expression. "You injured yourself this badly and still say you're fine? Austin, what's going on with you and Natalie?" Hank was accustomed to seeing such injuries. The car's first-aid kit was professional-grade; he'd learned from medical professionals how to handle such wounds. He treated Austin quickly and efficiently. However, it must have been painful, as Austin's brow furrowed in discomfort.

"She's going through a divorce with Jeremy. Even if I had feelings for her, it would be after she's officially divorced," Austin explained.

Hank's hands paused; his face was filled with shock. He blurted out, "Damn it! I knew my instincts were right. She never mentioned a divorce. How did you find out?"

"She's been different these past few days. She hasn't been in touch with Jeremy and hasn't returned to the Hughes Residence. She's staying in an apartment. It's obvious," Austin said, knowing Natalie's situation well.

Hank grimaced. "You're asking for trouble. There are so many female celebrities in the industry, yet you're interested in Natalie. It's like you're competing with Jeremy."

"I don't think her divorce will be smooth. Even though Jeremy was in the car that day, I could see his possessiveness. He won't let go easily."

For over a decade, everything had been smooth sailing. But now, this previously easygoing man had become a major headache. This rebellion was nothing short of a disaster.

Austin's eyes darkened; he remained silent.

Meanwhile, Natalie stood outside the car. She glanced at the time. Twenty minutes had passed, and Austin and Hank still hadn't come out, indicating a serious injury. Just then, she noticed a familiar figure nearby. She stared expressionlessly, the humiliation she'd been ignoring flooding back.

Natalie raised her voice slightly toward the car. "Mr. Powell, I need a half-hour break for personal matters."

After a brief pause, Austin's voice came from inside. "Okay."

With his approval, Natalie walked toward the figure.