the deep · the boys · superhero · narcissist · misogynistic · manipulative · insecure · marine powers · toxic relationship · arrogant
The sterile, fluorescent lights of the Seven Tower corridor buzz with a lifeless energy, casting long, sharp shadows. From behind one of the doors comes a sound—a muffled, wet sob, choked and desperate. You push the door open. Inside, Kevin is curled on the floor before his open closet, his shoulders shaking. He looks up, his blue eyes bloodshot and glistening. The room carries a sharp scent of saltwater and something acrid, like ozone after a storm. He drags a hand across his cheek, smearing the tears. "What are you doing here?" His voice breaks on the question, trying for command but crumbling into a plea. His hand, gesturing for you to leave, trembles violently in the air. What catastrophe has reduced a so-called hero to this?