The Cyber Huntsman by Charlie Richards

Chapter One

Oh... wow! I, uh, I never expected you to ask that.

The words showed up on Cian Huntsman’s computer screen, and he watched with bated breath for more... for an actual answer to his question. He’d been conversing with a man with the screen handle PraernaTheResilient for nearly six months. A few weeks prior, Cian had shocked himself when he’d realized that his heart raced with anticipation every evening while looking forward to chatting with Praerna.

They’d met on a game they both enjoyed—an adventure game where you completed missions and quests to win bonuses and prizes for your character. After doing a number of missions together, they’d begun chatting about things other than the game. That had led to them moving their dialogue to a chat platform.

Every night, Cian met Praerna to chat, even if the other man didn’t have time to play their online game together. He’d learned that Praerna worked nights, so technically, while Cian was winding down for the day, the other man was just starting his. Cian was still a bit uncertain as to what Praerna did, knowing only that he worked at a large, secluded estate and his duties shifted from week to week.

One of the first things Cian had asked was about Praerna’s name, why he’d used the term resilient. Praerna had explained that the prior management had been strict and harsh. Infractions or mistakes in one’s duties had been met with the harshest of punishments.

Cian got the impression that, while Praerna hadn’t said it, he suspected there had been physical abuse.

When Cian had asked why Praerna hadn’t left, his answer had been a little vague, saying only that it was a family position he couldn’t get away from. After that, Praerna had quickly assured him that things were different. The people in charge now were kind and encouraging, creating a wonderful environment for everyone at the estate.

Cian sort of wondered if Praerna wasn’t part of some kind of religious commune. Except, most of them didn’t have the sort of technology his friend seemed to have access to. When Cian had set up his gaming systems, he’d used the best equipment he could get his hands on—some of it almost military grade—and when Cian talked about it, Praerna seemed to know exactly what he was referring to.

So many contradictions with him. So fascinating.

To that end, Cian had finally taken the plunge and had asked if he and Praerna could meet. He wanted to see the guy who made his heart race with anticipation. Once he’d had the idea of asking for a meet-up in real life, Cian hadn’t been able to get it out of his head.

It had taken him nearly two weeks to gather the courage.

Except, Praerna still hasn’t given me a response.

Frowning at his screen, Cian confirmed that Praerna was still online. He hovered his fingers over the keys, trying to decide what to say. After a few seconds of hesitation, he began typing.

I know that probably came out of left field.

Cian paused and swallowed. He wondered if this was what it felt like to ask someone on a date. Not something Cian had bothered to do since he’d been discharged from the military.

But we’ve spent so much time talking that—

Pausing again, Cian tried to decide how to finish that. He scrubbed a hand through his short hair. While lowering his hand back to his keyboard, he tipped his head to the side and cracked his neck. Cian plowed forward. After all, he could never get what he wanted if he didn’t try.

I feel like I know you. I feel a chemistry that goes beyond a computer screen. I want the chance to see if it’s like that in person.

Cian hit enter and leaned back in his chair. Resting his hands on the armrests, he tapped the fingers of his right hand on the padding restlessly. He stared at the screen, mentally willing Praerna to agree.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t what came across the screen.

Wow. I am so flattered. So very, very flattered. You have no idea. But I really can’t. I told you about the strict interaction policy that my leaders have in place. It’s there for a reason. I promise. And, no, before you ask, I’m not in prison or anything. It’s really for our safety.

Plus, I know I never really said, but I’ve loved talking online because I don’t look like you. I’m... disfigured. I look different than you. I was born this way. Going in public is impossible for me. Please understand.

Disappointment crashed through Cian. Rubbing his jaw, he read the words twice. He shifted in his seat and felt a twinge in his thigh. Cian lowered his hand to his leg and gently massaged the bumpy skin through his sweats.

Cian lowered his gaze to his covered limb, thinking about the deeply marred flesh underneath the fabric. While he’d touched lightly on his background—that he’d been medically discharged from the military—he hadn’t gone into specifics. Cian thought maybe he should. Perhaps it would help.

Returning his hands to the keys, Cian began typing once more.

I understand disfigurement. I understand scars. I mentioned being in the military. Remember?

Surprise filled Cian as he read Praerna’s quick response.

I remember. Being in the military is a detriment, to be honest.

Seriously?Cian quickly typed the word, his curiosity piquing. Why?

Damn. Most people are pretty respectful and grateful to ex-military. We put our lives on the line so people can enjoy a life of freedom. Why would it be a detriment?

Praerna’s answer appeared on his screen in segments, as if he was worried about what he’d just shared.

Sorry.

Didn’t mean to offend.

It’s just... sometimes...

Um, groups like us... that are different... can be persecuted by those who don’t understand tolerance for those different.

Sometimes, the military has been used to hurt us.

Cian frowned at the screen. He couldn’t imagine why anyone would want to hurt a reclusive group. Unless—

Are you all doing something illegal?

He’d heard of groups doing illegal things in the name of religion. He sure hoped that wasn’t what was going on in whatever community Praerna lived in.

No!

Praerna’s response came quick.

Absolutely not.

We always follow the rules of the country we live in. Easier to stay left alone that way.

“Ooookay.” Cian thought that was an odd thing to say. “Damn. It really does sound like he’s part of some kind of reclusive religious community.”

Cian wasn’t certain how he felt about that. On the one hand, he felt everyone had the right to choose to worship any deity they chose, as long as they didn’t use their faith to hurt others. On the other hand, Cian had seen truly horrible things done to others in the name of religion.

Except, Cian realized Praerna’s people didn’t seem like that sort. From the sounds of it, they just wanted to be left alone to practice... whatever they practiced. Cian was inclined to believe his friend that they weren’t breaking any laws, so he didn’t know why they worried they would get into trouble.

Unable to help himself, Cian typed, Can I ask you a personal question?

Um. Sure. But I reserve the right not to answer.

Of course. That’s always your right.Cian had to smile. Not like I can force you.

Then shoot.

Cian couldn’t help but smile even as he typed his next question.

Does your community frown on homosexual relationships? Is that why you don’t want to meet me?

Another thought hit Cian, and he realized it was also viable. He grinned as a low chuckle escaped.

Or are you actually a woman?

Because if that’s the case, I should tell you that I’m bisexual.

Cian added a couple of winky smileys after that comment.

Seeing several roll-on-the-floor-laughing smileys with tears coming out of its eyes appear on his screen, Cian arched one brow. Huh. What does that mean? Cian found out quickly enough.

No. I’m a male, and my clutch totally doesn’t care about that sort of thing. We’re led by a pair of men. They’re totally in love with each other. It’s truly lovely to see. Gives me hope for the future.

Cian felt a wealth of amusement, enjoying Praerna’s playfulness. A second later, a surge of jealousy caused his gut to churn. He sucked in a sharp breath upon feeling the intensity of it. Cian wanted Praerna to have that hope for the future with him. His comment obviously meant he was open to the idea of a relationship.

Then we should meet, Praerna.

Cian couldn’t help but press the issue. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt jealousy, and he wanted the chance to prove himself to the friendly personality he’d become infatuated with.

I know you’re worried about what you look like, but please, don’t be.

Glancing at his leg again, Cian winced. He typed swiftly, trying to reassure the man.

I only reminded you about my being in the military because I have plenty of scars of my own. My convoy was hit by bad guys, and IED fragments tore through my right side. My thigh was pretty churned up. It’s healed now. As much as it can be, anyway. But it’s not pretty. And I sure have my fair share of scars. Please, give us a chance to see if we’re as compatible in person as we are online.

Cian forced his fingers to still. Staring at the screen, he waited... and waited.

*sigh*

I wish it were that simple... but it’s not.

Please don’t think that you having scars would cause an issue for me. It wouldn’t. I just... I can’t. I’m sorry.

Before Cian could come up with another argument, more words appeared.

I’m gonna go now. I’ll, uh... I’ll talk to you later.

“No,” Cian muttered.

A second later, however, the green icon indicating Praerna was online switched to red.

“Shit.” Cian slouched in his seat. Resting his head against the seat cushion, he stared at the ceiling. “Why’d you have to push, asshole?”

With a shake of his head, Cian let out a deep sigh. He knew the answer to that. He liked getting his way, and he was damn infatuated with the person he spoke with on a daily basis.

“I’ll apologize tomorrow,” Cian vowed to himself. “We’ll get back to just chatting for a few weeks before I try again.”

With that promise in mind, Cian began powering down his gear.

Except, the next day, Praerna didn’t show up at their usual time... or at all that evening. Cian fell asleep in his computer chair, waking the next morning with a crick in his neck.

For the next three days, Cian watched for Praerna, disappointment and sadness making his chest ache more and more with each day that passed and he didn’t see his online friend.

On the fourth day, those emotions switched to anger and frustration. The man could have at least said goodbye. He could have told him not to broach the subject again and continue to communicate with him.

Praerna hadn’t even logged into the game they’d been playing together.

For the next week, Cian did his best to push Praerna out of his mind. He did his work-out regimen faithfully, keeping what little muscle was left in his right thigh in shape. While Cian would always walk with a limp and—if leaving home—a cane, at least he’d retained the ability to walk. So many of his fellow servicemen weren’t so lucky.

Cian met a fellow retired army ranger—Tyler Dravrin—at a nearby gun range. They fired off several hundred rounds, making bets, shooting the shit, and joshing each other. After that, they went for pizza and beers.

With a bucket of hot wings on the table between them and a pizza on the way, Cian relaxed in his seat and took a sip of his beer. He lowered it to the table. Seeing Tyler’s intense scrutiny, Cian arched one brow in silent question.

“You’re brooding about something,” Tyler stated, narrowing his eyes a little as he tipped his head to the side a smidge. “What is it?”

Cian recognized the look. His fellow serviceman intended to pick at him until he shared. Tyler always loved a puzzle, and he’d been able to read not only Cian but the others in their unit. Tyler had a gift when it came to people.

Heaving a sigh, Cian grabbed one of the two small plates and a fork. “You know how I enjoy online games?” He began forking several hot wings onto his plate, glancing intermittently at Tyler in the process.

As Tyler followed suit, choosing his own wings, he nodded. “Yep. Heard you say it was a good stress relief to get away from the shit of the world.”

“Right.” Cian grabbed one of the two tubs of blue cheese dressing. “Well, a few months ago, I met someone on one of the games. We started talking. A lot.” After dunking a drumette into the blue cheese, Cian paused and focused on Tyler. “Every day. I really like him. I asked to meet him.”

Tyler froze midchew of the bite of chicken he’d just taken, so Cian tore into his own wing and waited. It didn’t take long.

A second later, Tyler swallowed his mouthful. “Huh.” He waved at Cian with a couple of fingers. “From your look, it didn’t go well. Was he not who he’d presented himself to be?”

Shaking his head, Cian admitted, “It never got that far. He said no and stopped talking to me.”

“Tough break.” Tyler took another bite of food, staring at him as he chewed.

Cian nodded, furrowing his brows as he focused on his own food.

“You’re damn disappointed,” Tyler commented, picking up his beer. Before taking a swig, he asked, “You want me to help you find him?”

Snapping his attention back to Tyler, Cian fought against the heat that threatened to rise up his neck. “I already tried,” he admitted gruffly. “His IP is encrypted.”

Anytime Cian wasn’t focused on something, his thoughts had turned to Praerna. He’d mentally rewound every conversation they’d had. His heart would flutter in his chest, and sadness would sink into his bones.

Cian had given in to temptation and attempted to track Praerna’s handle. He hadn’t gotten very far. While he wasn’t a bad hacker, his online friend had been better, shielding himself and his location.

Tyler scoffed, a smirk curving his lips. “You know I’m way better than you,” he teased. Leaning forward, narrowing his brown eyes as he smirked, Tyler told him, “It’s been a while since I’ve had a chance to test my skills. Let me help you find him.”

Hesitating, Cian took a drink of beer, washing down his bite of food. His desire warred with his respect for Praerna’s privacy. He wanted to meet the man so damn bad... but what if it blew up in his face?

Maybe Praerna is actually married.

But why wouldn’t he have just told me?

Wait. Praerna made that comment about hope for the future in regards to his boss being in a relationship with another man.

He’s still looking for his special someone.

I want that man to be me.

Meeting Tyler’s patient expression, Cian nodded. “Okay.”

Tyler chuckled while grinning. “Sweet.” He leaned back in his seat, his gaze straying to something over Cian’s left shoulder. “After pizza, we’ll head to my place.”

The waiter arrived and placed their pie on the table. After confirming around round of beers, he headed off again.

Cian and Tyler dug into the pizza.

Anticipation flooded Cian with each bite. As delicious as the pizza was, he couldn’t wait to get out of there.