Chapter 6: Into the lion’s den

 

The glow of the computer screen casts shadows across my face, deepening the furrows of my brow. Logan sits beside me, his right leg bouncing, a tell-tale sign of anxiety. Our eyes meet, a silent exchange heavy with the weight of what we’re about to do.

“You sure about this, Steph?” Logan’s voice is low, as if the walls might be listening.

I nod, my jaw set. “It’s the only way.”

My fingers hover over the keyboard, hesitating before I type in the URL. The dark web forum materialises on the screen, a virtual underworld where the dregs of humanity gather. I take a deep breath, steeling myself, and click on the ‘new user’ button.

“Remember, you’re Amy: vulnerable, naive, seeking financial advice.” Logan’s reminder is unnecessary, but I appreciate his concern.

I type my first message, my heart a staccato beat in my chest.

> New here, feeling lost. Recently widowed, no idea what to do with the insurance money. Need advice.

My finger trembles as I hit ‘post’. The die is cast. No turning back now.

The seconds stretch into minutes, each one an eternity. I stare at the screen, willing a response to appear. Logan’s leg continues to bounce, a metronome of nerves.

“Why is it taking so long?” he mutters.

“Patience,” I say, more to myself than to him.

The forum feels like a living, breathing entity, pulsing with malevolence. How many predators lurk in its depths, waiting to pounce on the vulnerable? How many lives have been ruined by the machinations of these faceless monsters?

Finally, a response appears.

> Welcome, Amy. So sorry for your loss. I might be able to help. Let’s chat privately.

The username is innocuous, but the message sends a chill down my spine. I glance at Logan, and he nods grimly. Contact made.