The lighting in the men's room was rather dim, making the small, enclosed space feel oppressive.
After quickly relieving himself, Ryan did not leave right away. He looked around the restroom, finding everything so new and interesting.
Suddenly, he noticed someone standing in the doorway.
Ryan blinked and cried out excitedly, "You're The Deep! I've seen you on TV. You're the Lord of the Seven Oceans, and you can talk to fish!"
That completely unguarded tone took The Deep somewhat by surprise.
The lines he had prepared stalled, and the emotions in his eyes grew complicated.
Of course, those emotions contained not a trace of guilt over what he was about to do, only impatience and anger.
Why did everyone look at Homelander with awe, but dare to be so casual with me?
Even a kid acted like that.
"You've seen me on TV?"
The Deep took a few steps forward, mimicking the half-smile Homelander wore when he was angry. He thought that expression was very intimidating.
"Oh, right. A little runt like you is only fit to watch TV. I bet you're so pathetic you don't even have a phone."
The Deep sneered, then blocked the exit with his body to keep Ryan from running away.
Sensing that something was off about The Deep, Ryan took a step back and leaned against the wall, looking at him timidly.
The Deep asked, "Tell me, which employee's kid are you, running around here?"
Ryan froze for a moment and pointed outside. "I came with my dad."
"Your dad?"
The Deep thought for a moment, assuming he was just a child some employee had brought in.
Then there was nothing to fear.
After all, the only ordinary person in this company he could not afford to offend was Ashley, who had become