OBSESSION

EIGHT.

Bethany stepped out of the car, taking in the sight of the restaurant. Nestled downtown, the venue was a study in elegance—glass walls gave a glimpse of warm golden lighting, and lush greenery framed the entrance, softening the sharp, minimalist architecture.

The building's sleek, modern lines and intimate ambiance spoke of exclusivity, a place where every detail was meticulously curated. Inside, tables were dressed in crisp white linens, with candles casting soft, flickering light that accentuated the polished silverware and crystal wine glasses.

Bethany adjusted the silky fabric of her dress, a deep emerald green that clung to her curves with just the right amount of give, the shade complementing her rich, dark skin. Her hair was styled in loose, defined waves that cascaded over her shoulders, softening her jawline and framing her face with an effortless elegance. She'd chosen simple, gold hoop earrings that caught the light as she moved, a delicate contrast against her skin, along with a thin bracelet that glinted subtly under the restaurant's glow.

Walking in, she caught a glimpse of Logan seated near the back, and her heart fluttered—a feeling she hadn't managed to shake since her earlier conversation with Teagan.

Logan stood up as he saw her, giving her that disarming smile she couldn't quite get used to. He was dressed in a perfectly tailored charcoal blazer over a white dress shirt, sleeves rolled up just enough to show the faint outline of veins in his forearms, paired with dark jeans that kept him looking casually sharp. His dark hair was neatly combed back, and a hint of cologne lingered in the air between them as she approached.

Despite her poise, Bethany's mind kept drifting back to her earlier conversation with Teagan, and a flicker of nerves tugged at her confidence. She inhaled slowly, letting herself take in the warmth of Logan's smile as he stepped closer, pulling out her chair with an ease that steadied her slightly shaky resolve. Tonight, she would stay present, let herself enjoy the moment—yet, the weight of her earlier doubts lingered just beneath the surface, a reminder that, no matter how perfect the setting, she couldn't entirely silence the voice in the back of her mind.

As they settled into their seats, Logan scanned the menu with a thoughtful look before setting it aside and meeting Bethany's eyes.

"Tonight's on me," he said with a smile. "We're celebrating, remember?"

Bethany's lips quirked into a smile as she looked over the options. She was grateful for the moment of lightness after a stressful day and the palpable tension still lingering from her talk with Teagan.

After a few minutes, the server arrived, and Logan gestured for them both to order. Bethany went for the seared scallops, accompanied by a rich truffle risotto, while Logan opted for the filet mignon, rare, with a side of roasted vegetables. When the server turned back, Logan nodded towards the wine list.

"Let's go for something special," he said, glancing at Bethany. "How about a bottle of the Château Margaux?" The server nodded, visibly impressed with his choice, and disappeared to fetch it.

Once they were alone again, Logan's eyes met hers, full of pride and warmth.

"You've earned this, Bethany," he said. "All the late nights, the challenges—you deserve to celebrate."

Bethany smiled, trying to let his words sink in. She'd worked hard, of course, but there was still that nagging feeling that something could go wrong. She took a slow breath, letting her guard down just enough to confide in him.

"Logan..." she started, toying with the edge of her napkin. "There's... there's something I need to tell you. Teagan warned me today about Sierra." She watched his expression, gauging his reaction. "If she finds out about us, it could get messy. She's already hinted that she'd do anything to get her way."