The Obsession

Fourteen years later, Naomi inspects the large, dilapidated former bed and breakfast that she has just purchased in Sunrise Cove, Washington. Realizing that the house needs extensive repairs overwhelms her, but she finds calm in the stunning view from the deck. After driving into town for supplies, she receives a referral for Kevin Banner, a local contractor. Kevin arrives with his dog, Molly, and conducts a thorough walk-through of the property. During their inspection, they discover original ponderosa pine floors hidden beneath the kitchen’s worn linoleum—an unexpected find that excites them both.

A week later, Kevin delivers a six-figure renovation estimate. Naomi accepts. As demolition begins, she helps gut the kitchen. One evening while driving home, Naomi swerves to avoid a deer, blowing a tire and landing her 4Runner in a ditch. Xander Keaton, a local mechanic, stops to assist her. He efficiently changes her tire and accepts only a slice of pizza as payment before departing, leaving Naomi intrigued.

To distract herself from the relentless rain and renovation chaos, Naomi begins painting the master bedroom as a productive outlet. Xander arrives to deliver her new tire and bill, creating a moment of tension as she acknowledges her physical attraction to him but resolves to maintain distance.