Here is the next chapter:
Chapter 44: The Clock Tower
Ethan's eyes scanned the deserted clock tower, his heart pounding in his chest. He had come alone, as instructed, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he was walking into a trap.
As he climbed the stairs, the sound of footsteps echoed behind him. He spun around, his eyes locking onto a figure emerging from the shadows.
It was a woman, tall and imposing, with piercing blue eyes. Ethan's heart skipped a beat as he realized who she was.
"You're the one who's been sending me messages," he accused.
The woman smiled, her eyes glinting with amusement. "I am," she said. "My name is Maya. And I have information about The Syndicate."
Ethan's eyes narrowed. "What kind of information?"
Maya hesitated, her eyes darting nervously around the room. "I have proof of The Syndicate's wrongdoings," she said. "But I need your help to take them down."
Ethan's mind was racing. Could he trust Maya? And what did she mean by "proof"?
But before he could ask any questions, Maya's eyes locked onto something behind him.
"Get down!" she yelled.
Ethan spun around, his heart racing with fear. And that's when he saw them - a team of heavily armed agents, descending upon the clock tower.
To be continued.