Chapter 140

Author's POV While Serena waited anxiously in the rest area, events were unfolding rapidly elsewhere in the hotel. Just above the reception hall, Ryan's security team had tracked down Derek to one of the hotel rooms. "What should we do now, Mr. Blackwood?" one of the security personnel asked Ryan through his earpiece, his voice low but urgent. "Station men at every exit," Ryan commanded, his voice decisive as he paced the corridor. "Cover the windows too. And call the police—report suspected gambling activities in the room." Ryan knew this accusation would bring a swift police response, even without concrete evidence. Once Derek was in custody, at least he'd be off the streets. Most importantly, Serena would be safe from the man who'd been terrorizing her for weeks. Within minutes, police sirens wailed outside the hotel, their piercing cry cutting through the elegant atmosphere of the gala below. Blue and red lights flashed against the building's glass exterior, creating an eerie dance