OBSESSION

THIRTEEN

Bethany awoke to the soft light filtering through the curtains of Logan's childhood bedroom. For a moment, she lay still, basking in the quiet, before the sounds of birds chirping outside reminded her of the day ahead. Stretching, she slipped out of bed, careful not to wake Logan, who was still deeply asleep beside her.

The house was still quiet as she padded to the adjoining bathroom. It had an old-world charm—white tile floors with black accents, a clawfoot tub, and a separate standing shower with brass fixtures. Stepping into the warm water, she let the cascading droplets wash away the lingering sleepiness and stress from the night before. The thought of facing another day with Logan's family stirred a mix of excitement and nerves, but she resolved to embrace it.

After her shower, she chose a simple yet elegant outfit for the boat: a white sundress with a cinched waist that complemented her figure, paired with flat sandals and oversized sunglasses. She styled her hair in soft, natural curls that cascaded down her back, adding just a touch of makeup to accentuate her glowing skin. Satisfied with her reflection, she made her way downstairs.

Entering the kitchen, Bethany expected to find Vivienne bustling around with breakfast preparations. Instead, she was greeted by the sight of a team of uniformed staff working efficiently around the pristine space. The clink of silverware and the sizzle of bacon filled the air.

Vivienne appeared, her warm smile lighting up the room.

"Good morning, Bethany. Did you sleep well?"

"I did, thank you," Bethany replied, her eyes drifting to the busy kitchen. "I was going to offer to help with breakfast, but it seems that's already taken care of."

Vivienne laughed softly. "No need, dear. Since we'll be spending the day on the yacht, breakfast and lunch are being prepared to take with us. It's easier that way."

Before Bethany could respond, Logan walked in, looking effortlessly handsome in a light blue linen shirt rolled up at the sleeves, paired with khaki shorts. He greeted her with a kiss on the cheek, the touch lingering enough to make her heart flutter.

"Ready for a day on the water?" Logan asked, his green eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Almost," Bethany said, her tone hesitant. "I should probably mention... I don't know how to swim."

Logan stopped, his expression shifting to one of genuine concern, though his tone remained light. "Good thing you mentioned it now. I'd hate to be surprised when you toss yourself overboard."

Bethany rolled her eyes, but her nerves didn't ease. "Very funny. I'm serious, Logan. What if I fall in?"

He stepped closer, his hand resting on her arm reassuringly. "Bethany, if anything happens, I'll be in the water faster than you can yell my name. You have nothing to worry about." His teasing smirk softened into something gentler. "I've got you."

Though she knew he was poking fun, the sincerity in his voice melted her anxiety.

"You're impossible," she murmured, but a small smile crept onto her lips as he led her toward the docks.

The morning sun reflected off the shimmering water as they approached the dock. Bethany's breath caught when she saw the vessel waiting for them—not a boat, as she had imagined, but a stunning white yacht, gleaming in the sunlight.

"This is not a boat," she said, eyes wide. "This is a floating mansion."

Logan chuckled, placing a hand at the small of her back. "Technically, it's a superyacht. My father doesn't do anything halfway."

The family began to gather, each dressed impeccably for the occasion. Vivienne arrived in a breezy turquoise caftan with oversized sunglasses, exuding effortless elegance. Benjamin, ever the image of power, wore a navy polo shirt and crisp white slacks. Liam was dressed casually in a white linen shirt and tan shorts, looking every bit the laid-back counterpart to Logan's refinement. Ian appeared in a striped button-up and cargo shorts, carrying a mischievous grin as he took in the scene.

Bethany glanced down at her own outfit, relieved that she had chosen something appropriate, though the casual opulence of everyone else's attire still made her feel slightly out of place.

As Logan helped load their bags onto the yacht and conferred with the deckhands, Ian sidled up to Bethany with a knowing smile.

"Impressive performance at dinner last night," he began, his tone light but pointed. "When's the wedding?"

Bethany laughed, shaking her head. "Oh, we're not even official. It's not like that."

Ian raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Not official? Bethany, come on. You're here, meeting the family, on a weekend getaway. How is that not serious?"

"It's... complicated," she admitted, feeling a little flustered under his scrutiny. "We've only known each other a short time. I don't want to rush into anything."

Ian chuckled, leaning against the railing.

"Rush? Bethany, if this isn't serious, then I don't know what is. Logan doesn't bring people around unless they mean something. Just... consider the optics, okay? Even if you're not calling it official, everyone else already sees it that way."

His words lingered as Bethany watched Logan from across the deck. He was helping secure ropes, his sleeves rolled up to reveal his strong forearms. There was a quiet confidence about him, an air of capability that made her heart ache with a mix of pride and longing.

Ian's casual observation struck a chord. Maybe it wasn't just about the optics—maybe it was time to admit to herself how deeply she cared for him.

Bethany looked back at Ian, her voice soft but resolute. "You're right. It does feel serious. I just... I want to make sure we're on the same page."

Ian smiled, his tone teasing but kind. "I think you'll find Logan is already there, waiting for you to catch up."

As Logan approached, his green eyes seeking hers, Bethany felt a warmth spread through her. Whatever title they put on their relationship, one thing was becoming increasingly clear—Logan was hers, and she was his. Now, all that remained was to say it aloud.

~*~

The afternoon sun shimmered on the waves as Logan leaned against the railing of the yacht. He gazed out at the horizon, but his thoughts were far from the serene view.

The soft hum of the ocean and distant laughter from his family did little to quiet his restless mind. Vivienne, his mother, approached with her signature poise, her white sundress swaying gently in the breeze.

"You look troubled," Vivienne said, stepping beside him. Her tone was gentle, but her perceptive eyes studied him carefully. "Let me guess—it's Bethany."

Logan chuckled dryly, rubbing the back of his neck. "You know me too well, Mom."

Vivienne smiled. "It's a mother's job. So, tell me, what's going on?"

Logan hesitated, his fingers tapping lightly against the railing. "I really like her. Like... more than I've liked anyone in a long time. But I'm afraid of rushing things and messing it all up. The last time I moved too fast..." He trailed off, his jaw tightening at the memory.

Vivienne's smile softened as she placed a hand on his arm.

"Logan, that was years ago. You've grown since then. And Bethany is nothing like the others. I can see that she cares for you."

"She does," Logan admitted. "But I don't want to scare her off. What if she's not ready for something serious?"

Vivienne tilted her head, her eyes sparkling with knowing amusement. "Oh, darling. Bethany is ready. She's just waiting for you to make the next move. If you hesitate too long, she might start to think you're not serious."

Logan exhaled slowly, her words sinking in. "So, what do I do?"

Vivienne's expression shifted to one of determination. "You make it official. And you do it in a way that shows her how much she means to you."

"Alright," Logan said, intrigued. "What do you have in mind?"

Over the next hour, Vivienne laid out the plan. The yacht would anchor near a secluded beach later in the afternoon. Logan would use the opportunity to suggest taking Bethany back to the house early.

Meanwhile, Vivienne would ensure everything was perfect at the house—a private dinner set up in the dining room, complete with candles, soft jazz music, and Bethany's favorite wine.

"I'll have a bouquet of sunflowers waiting for her," Vivienne said with a smile. "You told me once that they're her favorite because they're cheerful. Small details like that matter."

Logan nodded, impressed by her attention to detail. "And the dinner?"

"Simple but elegant," Vivienne replied. "Light dishes, nothing too heavy. This is about the gesture, not extravagance."

Logan leaned back against the railing, a small smile playing on his lips. "You're really going all out."

Vivienne raised an eyebrow. "Of course. When it comes to my son, I expect nothing less than perfection—especially for someone like Bethany. She's worth it, Logan. And so are you."

He glanced at her, his chest tightening with gratitude. "Thanks, Mom. For everything."

Vivienne squeezed his shoulder affectionately. "Save the thanks for when she says yes."

~*~

Later that afternoon, as the yacht anchored near a picturesque beach with crystal-clear water, Logan approached Bethany, who was lounging on a chair with a book in her hands. She looked up at him, her smile as radiant as the sunlight dancing on the waves.

"Hey," Logan said, his voice warm. "I was thinking... Want to head back to the house early? I have something to show you."

Bethany raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What kind of something?"

"It's a surprise," Logan teased, grinning. "But I promise it'll be worth it."

She hesitated, glancing at the rest of the family enjoying the day. "Are you sure? I don't want to miss anything."

Logan leaned in closer, lowering his voice. "Trust me, you won't miss a thing."

Her curiosity got the better of her, and she nodded. "Alright. Lead the way."

Logan took her hand as they climbed into the smaller boat waiting to take them to the dock.

The ride back was quiet, the gentle hum of the engine underscoring the soft sounds of the water. Logan kept stealing glances at Bethany, her features serene yet filled with curiosity. His heart raced with anticipation as he thought about what awaited them at the house.

When they arrived, Logan helped her onto the dock, his hand lingering on hers as they walked toward the house.

Bethany's mind buzzed with possibilities. She had no idea what Logan had planned, but the glint of excitement in his eyes told her it was something special.

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting the garden in a golden glow that seemed to make everything shimmer. Bethany stepped onto the stone pathway, her eyes widening as she took in the breathtaking scene laid out before her.

A long table had been set near the edge of the garden overlooking the calm, glistening water. The table was draped in a soft cream-colored cloth, its surface adorned with clusters of fresh sunflowers and white roses, their petals catching the last rays of sunlight. The soft flicker of candles in glass holders added a touch of intimacy, their light reflecting off the delicate crystal wine glasses and gold-accented dinnerware.

String lights hung in graceful arcs above the table, their warm glow creating a canopy of light that complemented the natural beauty of the evening. Around them, the garden buzzed with life—the gentle hum of crickets and the occasional whisper of a breeze through the trees. The soft sound of waves lapping against the shore provided a soothing backdrop.

Bethany turned to Logan, who stood beside her, his green eyes watching her reaction closely. He was dressed simply yet impeccably in a white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled to his elbows and dark slacks that accentuated his lean frame.

"Logan..." Bethany's voice was barely above a whisper, her awe evident. "This is beautiful."

He smiled, reaching for her hand. "Not as beautiful as you."

Bethany rolled her eyes playfully, though her cheeks flushed at the sincerity in his tone.

"Did your mother help you with this?"

Logan chuckled as he led her to the table, pulling out a chair for her to sit.

"I may have had a little assistance. But this is all for you."

Once they were seated, the butler discreetly appeared, pouring glasses of a crisp white wine and setting down the first course—seared scallops atop a bed of lemon-infused risotto. The aroma was heavenly, and Bethany couldn't help but smile as she picked up her fork.

"I could get used to this," she teased, taking a bite and savoring the rich, tangy flavors.

"You should," Logan replied, his tone playful but with an undercurrent of seriousness. "You deserve to be treated like this all the time."

Bethany's laughter softened, her eyes meeting his. "You have a way of making me feel like I'm the only person in the world when I'm with you."

"That's because you are," Logan said simply. His gaze didn't waver, and the intensity in his green eyes made her heart race.

"Stop," Bethany said, though her smile gave away how much his words affected her. "You're going to spoil me."

"Good," Logan replied, his lips curving into a soft grin. "That's the plan."

The conversation shifted naturally as they enjoyed their meal. They talked about lighter things at first—travel dreams, favorite foods, funny stories from their childhoods. But as the evening deepened, the mood grew more intimate.

"You know," Logan said, leaning back slightly as the butler cleared away their empty plates, "this week has been... strange."

Bethany tilted her head. "Strange how?"

"Strange because I haven't been able to get you out of my head," Logan admitted, his voice low but steady. "I've thought about you every day. And not just about how beautiful you are, but about how you make me feel like I can be myself in a way I haven't felt in a long time."

Bethany's breath hitched, her pulse quickening at his words. "Logan..."

"I know it's fast," he said, leaning forward and taking her hand in his. "But I'm not the kind of man who waits around when I know what I want. And I know I want you."

Bethany's heart raced as his words hung in the air. She felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness, but mostly, she felt the undeniable truth of what he was saying. She wanted him too—had wanted him since the moment their lives collided.

Logan took a deep breath, his green eyes piercing as he asked, "Bethany, will you be my girlfriend?"

Bethany's lips parted, and for a moment, she couldn't find the words. But as she looked into his eyes, she realized there was only one answer.

"Yes," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "I'd love to be your girlfriend."

Relief and joy flooded Logan's face as he stood, pulling her to her feet and capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. Bethany melted into him, her arms wrapping around his neck as he held her close. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth of his embrace and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

When they finally broke apart, Logan rested his forehead against hers, his smile so radiant it made her heart swell. "You've made me the happiest man alive."

Bethany laughed softly, brushing a hand through his hair. "And you've officially swept me off my feet."

Logan's grin turned playful as he bent down, lifting her effortlessly into his arms. Bethany squealed in surprise, laughing as she clung to him.

"What are you doing?" she asked, her laughter bubbling over.

"Taking you to bed," Logan said with a mischievous glint in his eye. "We have a lot to celebrate."

Bethany didn't argue, her laughter turning into soft giggles as he carried her back toward the house, the glow of the garden lights fading behind them as they stepped into the warmth of the home.