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.