OBSESSION

SIXTEEN

Bethany woke up to the soft light of dawn creeping through the sheer curtains of Logan's bedroom. The weekend had passed in a blur of stolen kisses, tangled sheets, and Logan's relentless efforts to keep her mind off work. But even now, as she lay in the warmth of his arms, her thoughts drifted back to Juliette and the quiet chaos she had unleashed.

It had been a week since Juliette's arrival at R&M, and every moment since had been a test of Bethany's patience and resolve. Juliette's subtle manipulation had become a constant presence, pushing her to work longer hours and bury herself in revisions, all while subtly keeping her occupied enough to minimize her time with Logan. On top of that, Sierra's newfound determination to be involved in every meeting with Logan gnawed at her. The two women seemed to operate with unspoken coordination, their actions pricking at Bethany's insecurities.

She glanced over at Logan, still asleep beside her. His dark lashes rested against his cheek, and his chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm. They had spent the entire weekend together, Logan determined to distract her from her mounting stress. And though his touch had been a welcome reprieve, her worries remained like a quiet drumbeat in the back of her mind.

Bethany slipped out of bed, careful not to wake him, and padded over to the window. She crossed her arms and looked out at the view of Seattle stretching before her, the city just beginning to stir. Her mind was a whirlwind of doubt. She couldn't ignore the time Sierra was spending with Logan under the guise of work, nor could she shake the feeling that Juliette's motives were far from professional.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Logan shifting behind her.

"You're thinking too loud," he mumbled, his voice rough with sleep.

Bethany turned to see him propped up on one elbow, his green eyes heavy with drowsiness but full of warmth. His lips curved into a small smile as he motioned for her to come back to bed.

"I didn't mean to wake you," she said, climbing back under the covers. Logan immediately wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close.

"You've been tense all weekend," Logan said, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Talk to me."

Bethany hesitated, unsure of how much to share. But the weight of her thoughts spilled out. "It's been hard, Logan. Juliette's working me to the bone, and Sierra... she's been in every meeting with you. I feel like I'm being pulled in a million directions, and I don't know who to trust."

Logan's brow furrowed as he listened. "You only have a few more weeks left working with Juliette. You've got this."

Bethany sighed, her fingers absently tracing patterns on his chest. "It's not just the work, Logan. I feel like Juliette still has feelings for you. And if I'm being honest, it's hard not to think about what you two were."

Logan tensed slightly before relaxing again, his hand soothingly rubbing her back. "I don't care what Juliette feels. I care about you. That's it."

Bethany frowned. "But there's so much I don't know. About you, about her. I need to understand, Logan. How did it end? Why did it end?"

Logan sighed, a shadow passing over his face. "Bethany—"

"Please," she pressed. "If I'm supposed to ignore what's happening, I need to know everything."

Logan stared at her for a long moment, his eyes searching hers. Then, instead of answering, he gave her a wicked grin and disappeared beneath the covers.

"Logan," she protested, trying to push him back, but his lips found her stomach, making her laugh despite herself.

His voice, muffled but playful, came from under the sheets. "If you're going to stress, I might as well give you something else to think about."

Bethany's laughter turned into a soft gasp as his touch became more deliberate, and for a moment, all her worries melted away. Logan had a way of making her forget, even if just for a little while.

Bethany stepped into the office building, her mind still clouded with the remnants of Logan's touch and the quiet warmth of their morning together. But as the elevator doors closed, lifting her toward the 9th floor, she pushed those thoughts aside and steeled herself. Today was the day she'd have to meet with both Liam and Benjamin Chase, a task that had her nerves wound tight since Logan had mentioned it.

"Morning!" Teagan chirped as Bethany entered the hallway. Her red hair was tied into a neat bun, and she had a coffee cup in hand, as usual.

"Morning," Bethany replied, forcing a smile as she stopped by her desk. She began to set down her bag and organize her notes for the meeting.

"You look... different," Teagan observed, leaning against the desk with a knowing grin. "Good weekend?"

Bethany paused, her cheeks flushing slightly. "It was nice."

Teagan's grin widened. "Nice? That's it?"

Bethany rolled her eyes. "It was great. Really great. Now, can we not talk about it right before a meeting with Liam and Benjamin Chase?"

Teagan raised her hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine. But you're glowing, so whatever 'great' means, it's working for you."

Bethany laughed softly, grabbing her tablet and notebook. "Wish me luck."

"Good luck, boss lady. Not that you need it." Teagan winked before heading toward the break room.

Taking a deep breath, Bethany squared her shoulders and made her way to the conference room. She arrived a few minutes early, setting up her materials and taking a moment to steady her nerves. The room was pristine, its polished glass table reflecting the soft overhead lighting. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooked the bustling city below, a stark reminder of the stakes involved in this meeting.

The door opened, and Liam strolled in first, his easygoing demeanor contrasting sharply with the tension Bethany felt. "Morning, Bethany," he said, giving her a nod as he set his briefcase down.

"Good morning, Liam," she replied politely, her voice steady.

Moments later, Benjamin Chase entered, his presence filling the room with a cool authority. He was impeccably dressed in a dark gray suit, his salt-and-pepper hair neatly combed back. His sharp eyes scanned the room before landing on Bethany, his expression unreadable.

"Ms. Scott," he greeted curtly, sitting at the head of the table. "Let's get started."

Bethany nodded, taking her seat. Liam shot her a small, almost encouraging glance as Benjamin opened the folder in front of him.

The meeting began with Liam reviewing the project's logistics, outlining timelines, and detailing the expected deliverables. Benjamin listened intently, his hands steepled in front of him, occasionally asking pointed questions that forced Liam to clarify or elaborate.

When it was Bethany's turn to present the design proposals and plans, she felt Benjamin's eyes boring into her. His presence was intimidating, but she refused to let it show. She stood, her tablet in hand, and began her presentation.

"This project requires a balance of innovation and functionality," Bethany began, her voice steady. "We've designed spaces that prioritize both aesthetic appeal and practical use. Our goal is to create an environment that feels timeless while meeting the needs of its occupants."

Benjamin's gaze didn't waver, and when she paused, he leaned back slightly. "And how do you propose to balance cost efficiency with these... ambitious designs?" he asked, his tone cool and probing.

Bethany met his gaze, her response measured. "We've carefully sourced materials and contractors to ensure quality without overspending. Additionally, we've implemented modular design elements that allow for flexibility, reducing long-term costs."

Benjamin raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "Modular design? That's a risk. If the market doesn't respond well, it could be a wasted investment."

"Respectfully, Mr. Chase," Bethany said, holding her ground, "the market analysis we conducted suggests otherwise. Consumers are increasingly drawn to adaptable spaces. This approach positions the project ahead of the curve."

Liam cleared his throat, clearly impressed but trying to hide it. "She's got a point, Dad."

Benjamin glanced at his son briefly before turning back to Bethany. "And the contingency plan?"

Bethany didn't miss a beat. "We've prepared alternative layouts that can be implemented with minimal additional cost. They've been designed to align with market preferences while maintaining the integrity of the original concept."

A tense silence hung in the air as Benjamin studied her, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly. Then, with a curt nod, he said, "Continue."

The rest of the presentation went smoothly, and when it concluded, Bethany returned to her seat, her heart racing despite her composed exterior. Liam leaned toward her slightly as Benjamin reviewed the documents she'd provided.

"Impressive," Liam murmured, his tone genuine.

"Thank you," Bethany replied quietly, relieved but still on edge.

Benjamin closed the folder and looked at both of them. "The designs are acceptable. Let's see if the execution matches. This is a trial, Ms. Scott, not a permanent arrangement. I'll reserve judgment until I see results."

"Yes, sir," Bethany replied, her voice steady despite the subtle sting of his words.

The meeting adjourned, and as Benjamin exited the room without another word, Liam lingered behind. He turned to Bethany, his expression softer than usual.

"He doesn't give compliments easily," Liam said. "But trust me, you impressed him."

Bethany exhaled, a small smile breaking through. "I hope so."

Liam gave her a nod before following his father out, leaving Bethany alone in the conference room. She sank into her chair, letting out a long breath. She'd survived—and more importantly, she'd held her own.

Bethany had just returned to her desk after the tense meeting with Liam and Benjamin, her nerves finally beginning to settle. She glanced over her notes, mentally organizing the next steps when the sound of heels clicking against the polished floor caught her attention.

She looked up to see Juliette striding into the office as if she owned the place.

Dressed in a tailored cream-colored blazer and matching pencil skirt, Juliette was the picture of sophistication. Her dark hair was pulled back into a sleek chignon, and she carried a designer tote that probably cost more than Bethany's entire wardrobe. She scanned the room with an air of authority, her sharp gaze landing on Bethany.

"Bethany," Juliette said smoothly, her French accent more pronounced than usual. "What a pleasure to see you again."

Bethany blinked, caught off guard by her sudden appearance. "Juliette," she replied, her tone polite but wary. "I wasn't expecting you."

"I thought I'd drop by," Juliette said, her smile just a little too sharp. "After all, R&M is handling such an important project for Legacy Realty, and I'm overseeing certain aspects on my end. It's only natural for me to check in."

Bethany's stomach twisted. Overseeing aspects? This was news to her. She kept her face neutral, determined not to let Juliette see the doubt creeping in.

"Of course," Bethany said. "How can I help you?"

Juliette tilted her head, her expression thoughtful as she leaned against the edge of Bethany's desk. "I must admit, it's quite impressive that Logan trusts you with such significant responsibilities. He was always so particular about the people he worked with." Her words hung in the air like bait.

Bethany's jaw tightened. She knew exactly what Juliette was doing, but she refused to bite. "Logan has high standards," she said calmly. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to meet them."

"Hmm," Juliette murmured, clearly unimpressed by Bethany's measured response. She glanced around the office, her gaze flickering to the team members bustling nearby. "It's interesting, though. Logan never liked to mix business with... personal matters. Yet here you are, managing his most important project."

Bethany felt the weight of Juliette's insinuation, her composure threatening to c***k. "I'm here because I'm qualified," she said firmly, meeting Juliette's gaze. "My personal life has no bearing on my work."

"Of course," Juliette said with a small laugh, as though she didn't believe a word of it. She straightened, brushing imaginary lint off her pristine blazer. "But it must be challenging. Logan is a man who leaves quite an impression, isn't he?"

Bethany's heart thudded painfully in her chest. Juliette's words were calculated, designed to rattle her, and they were working. She forced herself to keep her tone steady. "He's certainly passionate about his work."

"Oh, Logan is passionate about many things," Juliette said, her voice dropping just enough to make the insinuation unmistakable. She leaned in slightly, her smile gleaming with faux sincerity. "But be careful, ma chère. Passionate men are often... complicated."

Bethany swallowed hard, her grip tightening on the edge of her desk. Before she could respond, Marcus appeared at the edge of her peripheral vision, his presence a welcome reprieve.

"Juliette," Marcus said, his voice bright but professional. "I didn't know you'd be stopping by. Is there something specific you'd like to discuss?"

Juliette's smile widened as she turned to him. "Marcus, it's lovely to see you. I wanted to touch base on the design timeline for the Legacy Realty project."

"Of course," Marcus said, gesturing toward the conference room. "Let's step in here and talk."

Juliette shot Bethany one last glance, her smile razor-sharp. "It was lovely catching up, Bethany. We'll talk soon, I'm sure."

Bethany nodded tightly, her throat too dry to speak. As Juliette disappeared into the conference room with Marcus, Bethany sank back into her chair, her mind racing. Juliette's pointed remarks echoed in her head, each one chipping away at the confidence she'd worked so hard to build.

What is she really up to? Bethany thought. And why does it feel like she's trying to get under my skin?

The tension in her chest didn't ease, even as the office returned to its usual rhythm around her. For the first time, Bethany felt truly uncertain about her place—not just at R&M, but in Logan's life.

That evening, as the rain pattered softly against the window of Logan's penthouse, Bethany sat curled on the plush sofa, her thoughts a tangled mess. The tension in her chest hadn't eased since Juliette's visit to the office. Logan was finishing up a call in his home office, and she knew she couldn't let this evening pass without confronting him. The weight of Juliette's insinuations loomed heavy, her doubts gnawing away at the joy she'd felt only days ago.

When Logan finally joined her, his tie loosened and sleeves rolled up, he immediately sensed her unease. "You've been quiet," he said, taking a seat beside her and brushing a strand of hair from her face. "What's on your mind?"

Bethany hesitated, her fingers playing with the hem of her sweater. She looked into his forest-green eyes, her resolve hardening. "Juliette came to the office today."

Logan's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. "What did she say?"

Bethany took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly. "She made comments... insinuations about you and me. She implied you don't usually mix business with personal matters and said some things about your past. Logan, I need to know. Is there something you haven't told me?"

Logan leaned back, rubbing a hand over his face. His hesitation made Bethany's stomach twist.

"Bethany," he began, his voice low and measured, "I've told you before that Juliette and I have history. But if you're asking for the whole story, you deserve to hear it."

She nodded, her heart pounding. "I need to understand, Logan. Because the way she talks, it's like she thinks she still has a place in your life."

Logan's eyes softened as he took her hand in his. "She doesn't. But I can see how it might feel that way. Two years ago, Juliette and I were... serious. Too serious, too fast. I thought I was in love with her. We were engaged after only six months."

Bethany's breath hitched. She hadn't expected the admission to hit so hard. "Engaged?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

Logan nodded. "It wasn't right, though. I was so caught up in the idea of us that I ignored the cracks. Juliette is... ambitious. And there's nothing wrong with that, but for her, it was always about what I could provide, not who I was. She wanted the lifestyle, the connections, the prestige of being with me—not me."

Bethany looked down, her insecurities creeping in. "And now she's here, working with my firm, throwing around those connections."

Logan cupped her chin, gently lifting her gaze to meet his. "I ended things when I realized what we had wasn't real. She left for Paris soon after, and I haven't thought about her in that way since. You have to believe me, Bethany. You're the only one I want."

"But why didn't you tell me all of this before?" Bethany asked, her voice tinged with hurt. "I've been honest with you about my past. I need to know we're on the same page."

Logan exhaled slowly, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "You're right. I should've told you. But I didn't want to dredge up old wounds—hers or mine. And honestly, I was scared. Scared that it would make you question what we have, like it's doing now."

Bethany's chest tightened. She wanted to trust him, but her insecurities whispered doubts. "Logan, I've spent my whole life feeling like I have to prove myself—like I have to be better, stronger, smarter, just to be seen. And with Juliette... it's hard not to feel like I'm just a placeholder."

Logan leaned closer, his voice firm but filled with warmth. "You're not a placeholder, Bethany. You're the reason I'm even thinking about a future again. You're the reason I wake up excited, the reason I want to be better. Juliette is my past. You're my present—and my future, if you'll have me."

Tears pricked Bethany's eyes as she whispered, "You promise?"

"I swear," Logan said, his voice breaking slightly with emotion. He pressed his forehead to hers, his breath warm against her skin. "You're it for me, Bethany."

She leaned forward, capturing his lips in a soft, searching kiss. The tension melted away as his hands slid around her waist, pulling her closer. The kiss deepened, their connection reigniting in a rush of heat and longing.

Logan shifted, lifting her effortlessly into his arms as he carried her toward the bedroom. The rain continued to patter against the windows, the city lights casting a soft glow into the dimly lit room.

He set her down gently on the bed, his lips never leaving hers as he slowly undressed her, each touch reverent and purposeful. Her sweater slipped over her head, revealing her soft curves to his hungry gaze. Logan's hands explored her body with an intimacy that made her feel cherished, his touch igniting every nerve.

Bethany responded in kind, her fingers deftly unbuttoning his shirt and sliding it off his broad shoulders. She marveled at the strength in his body, the way he seemed both powerful and gentle all at once.

Logan's lips trailed down her neck, to her collarbone, then lower, leaving a path of heat in their wake. Bethany's breath hitched as his hands gripped her hips, pulling her flush against him. Their movements were slow and deliberate, every touch and kiss a silent promise of devotion.

When they finally came together, it was with an intensity that left them both breathless, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. Logan whispered her name like a prayer, his hands tangling in her hair as their passion reached its peak.

Afterward, as they lay tangled in each other's arms, Logan pressed a soft kiss to her temple. "You have nothing to worry about," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "I'm yours, Bethany. Completely."

Bethany rested her head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. For the first time since Juliette's arrival, she felt a sense of calm. Logan was hers, and she was his. Nothing—and no one—could change that.