Hunters Don't Cry (MM book Excerpt)

Content Warning: Abusive Homophobia, internal homophobia, homophobic society, outing, off-screen non-con (not between MCs), on/off screen self-harm, abusive parent, degradation, childhood trauma

'Hunters Don't Cry'
Throughout my life, I've heard this hard-bitten expression. It was like a taunt, as if implying that hunters didn't have the heart to feel such extreme emotions or reasons sufficient enough to shed tears. But for me, this lingered like a heavy fog, suffocating me with despair... Outwardly, I maintained a façade of composure, but inwardly, the pain of suppressing my tears overwhelmed me. It was a constant reminder that my true feelings were deemed inconsequential, unworthy of others' acknowledgment...
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In the shadowed world of hunters, duties and responsibilities overshadow their personal freedom. One such shackle restrains their freedom to love. This supernatural race, which exists to protect humanity from abominations, forbids homosexuality and the pursuit of true desires.

Despite being a hunter, Collen can't deny the depth of his feelings for his partner, Logan. However, as Logan's skills eclipse his own, Collen struggles with a constant sense of unworthiness. Unbeknownst to him, behind closed doors, his beloved grapples with demons of his own, in solitude. Is it possible for him to achieve the life he desires with Logan when the entire world seems against it? Or perhaps the only practical option is to give in and move on with someone who can reciprocate his feelings?