My initial thought is to countersink, glue, screw, and conceal screws with matching plugs. I’m afraid it won’t allow for proper wood movement though. I live in an area that doesn’t have wild seasonal shifts so feel a bit better about that. But I am taking precautions when milling before it’s time to assemble; acclimate stock inside the house, mill to rough dimensions, bring stock back inside after being in the shop, mill to final dimensions before assembly (obviously the maple in photo is incomplete). The bench is 72”x16”x18” if that helps. Face boards will end up 3/4" after final plane.

Any other ideas or am I overthinking it?

Sorry for sideways photos.

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