Here is the next chapter:
Chapter 33: The Gunfight
Ethan's instincts kicked in as the bullets whizzed past his head. He grabbed Alex and pulled him to the ground, using a nearby crate for cover.
"Who's shooting at us?" Alex yelled.
Ethan peeked around the crate, trying to get a glimpse of their attackers. "I don't know, but we need to get out of here!"
They returned fire, trying to pin down their attackers. But there were too many of them, and they were well-trained.
Ethan knew they couldn't hold out for much longer. They needed a plan, and fast.
That's when he saw it - a fire exit sign on the wall, partially hidden by a stack of crates.
"Alex, I think I see a way out!" Ethan yelled.
Alex followed his gaze, and nodded. "Let's go!"
They made a break for the fire exit, bullets whizzing past their heads. They burst through the door, slamming it shut behind them.
They found themselves in a narrow alleyway, the sounds of gunfire muffled by the door.
Ethan and Alex looked at each other, both of them panting heavily.
"We made it," Alex said, a grin spreading across his face.
But Ethan's expression was grim. "We're not safe yet," he said. "We need to keep moving."
And with that, they took off down the alleyway, disappearing into the night.
To be continued.