Chapter 149

Serena’s POV I landed in San Francisco right on schedule, greeted by the warm California sunshine that instantly felt several degrees hotter than what I'd left behind in New York. The organizer's staff was already waiting for me at the airport, whisking me away to my hotel with practiced efficiency. "Miss Serena, if you need anything during the competition, please don't hesitate to contact me. I'm here to assist with whatever you require," the young woman said earnestly, handing me her business card. I nodded politely, accepting the card. "Thank you for your thoughtfulness." The hotel was luxurious - all gleaming marble and tasteful art pieces in the lobby. My suite overlooked the famous bay, where fog was just beginning to creep in over the water. San Francisco really was beautiful with its year-round spring-like climate, so different from the intensity of New York's seasons. As soon as I settled into my room, I called Ryan. He'd been texting me every hour since I boarded the plane, h