“The Origin of the World is currently buffering.”

The Hotel Courbet is a small, independently owned hotel that opened its doors in 2014. It is situated in the heart of San Francisco's Mission District, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its artistic community, cultural attractions, and diverse restaurants. The hotel's design and decor reflect the neighborhood's bohemian spirit, with a mix of vintage and modern elements.

The sign above the door, written in flashing Comic Sans, reads:

I stared at the screen. The fan in my laptop whirred, struggling to render the memory of a past that hadn't technically happened.