This series alternates between 21 and an increasing odd number. Odd positions: 21, 21, 21, 21 (constant). Even positions: 9, 11, 13, __ (increasing by 2 each time). So the next number is 13 + 2 = 15. Option A (14) would be if it increased by 1. Option C (21) is the constant value at odd positions.