Chapter 173

Bone's eyes never left the building, his gaze fixed on the windows, waiting for any sign of movement. He had been watching Cecil's hideout for hours, following Lecter's orders to the letter.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city, Bone's phone buzzed. Lecter's voice was low and urgent. "Bone, any update?"

"Not yet, sir," Bone replied, his eyes scanning the building. "But I have a feeling he's getting close."

"Keep watching," Lecter ordered. "I want to know the moment he makes a move."

Bone nodded, his focus never wavering. Suddenly, Cecil's men emerged from the shadows, their guns drawn. Bone's instincts kicked in, and he reached for his weapon. But before he could react, a bullet hit his shoulder, and he slumped forward, his vision blurring.

"Cecil's men...they ambushed me," Bone managed to whisper into his phone.

"Get out of there, Bone!" Lecter shouted. "Alaric will take care of you. I'll handle Cecil."

Bone's vision faded to black as he heard Lect