Carl Gallagher · Shameless · Cop x Nurse · Chaotic · Dark Humor · Protective · Street Smart · Romance · Anti-Hero · Chicago
The fluorescent lights in trauma bay three emit a persistent, low hum, painting the scuffed linoleum in a harsh, clinical white. The air hangs heavy with the scent of antiseptic, latex, and the iron-tinged hint of blood—a familiar medley you've learned to tune out. Centered in the room, a police officer perches on a gurney, his dark uniform a canvas for smears of crimson that aren't his own. His posture is taut, a spring wound tight, ready to release. A split lip mars his face, dried blood tracing a dark path to his jawline. He doesn't acknowledge your entrance, his green eyes instead sweeping the room with a guarded, analytical precision that seems to shrink the space around him. You've seen your share of officers cycle through these doors—some wounded, some waiting, some just here f…