OBSESSION

NINE.

Bethany stepped out of the sleek town car, her breath catching as she looked up at the towering building before her.

Logan's penthouse was housed in one of Seattle's most exclusive high-rises, an architectural marvel of steel and glass that seemed to slice into the sky. The building exuded a quiet, refined luxury—grand in its design, but without a hint of ostentation. Its facade was an intricate lattice of reflective panels and metal, mirroring the lights of the city and casting a shimmering, ethereal glow across the surrounding streets.

As they approached the entrance, Bethany couldn't help but feel a thrill of awe mixed with excitement. A wide set of marble steps led up to sleek, blackened steel doors, lit softly by golden sconces that lent the entryway an air of elegance and mystery. She couldn't help but steal a glance at Logan, noting the way he walked with a calm, self-assured stride, as if this grand setting was as natural to him as breathing.

Just inside the doors, the doorman greeted them, a distinguished older man with a salt-and-pepper beard and a twinkle of familiarity in his eye. His suit was immaculate, his posture straight, and his warm, easy smile softened the formal atmosphere of the lobby.

"Good evening, Mr. Chase," the doorman greeted with a respectful nod and a hint of friendliness. "It's been a little while since we've seen you around here."

Logan returned the nod, his own smile understated but genuine. "Evening, Henry. Hope you've been keeping the place in order for me."

The doorman chuckled, his gaze flickering to Bethany. "Always, sir. And welcome, Miss. I hope you enjoy your evening."

Bethany returned the smile, a blush warming her cheeks as she nodded. "Thank you, Henry."

Logan placed a reassuring hand on the small of her back as they stepped through the opulent lobby. It was a masterpiece of modern design, with soaring ceilings that opened up into a vast, open space. The floors were polished granite, so perfectly reflective that they seemed like a mirror, capturing the glow of the intricate crystal chandelier above. The chandelier was breathtaking, a cascade of crystals that shimmered in soft, warm tones, casting intricate patterns of light across the walls.

Large, bold paintings adorned the walls—abstract but powerful pieces in shades of deep blue, emerald green, and hints of gold—contrasting beautifully with the clean, minimalist lines of the space. The quiet hum of sophisticated jazz music played softly in the background, adding to the luxurious ambiance.

Logan led her toward a private elevator in a discreet corner of the lobby, with brushed gold accents framing the polished wood doors. He pressed the button, and the doors slid open soundlessly, revealing a spacious interior lined with rich, dark wood and velvet accents, the lighting warm and intimate. It was a private space, designed to make anyone feel like royalty for a few moments.

As soon as the doors closed, sealing them off from the rest of the world, the restraint they'd maintained throughout the car ride melted away. The anticipation between them, which had simmered quietly during the drive, finally boiled over.

Logan turned to her, his gaze dark and intense, and in an instant, his hands found her waist, pulling her close. His mouth descended onto hers, his kiss urgent and consuming, his touch sending a rush of warmth through her body. Bethany's hands slid up his chest, feeling the firm, lean muscles beneath his suit as she kissed him back with equal fervor. Her fingers curled around his lapels, pulling him closer, anchoring herself as the elevator rose smoothly through the floors.

He kissed her with an intensity that left her breathless, their mouths moving in perfect sync, as though this moment had been building since the first time they'd met. Logan's hands moved over her waist, gripping her firmly yet gently, grounding her even as her mind seemed to blur with desire. Her pulse raced, each touch, each soft groan igniting a fire that was impossible to ignore.