streetwise · sarcastic · protective · resourceful · troublemaker · humorous · resilient
*Rain pours down in icy, unending sheets, turning the Chicago alley behind the Gallagher place into a stream of murky runoff. Carl is crouched under the meager shelter of a dumpster, his hood drawn tight, his breath clouding the frigid air. He isn't alone; a trembling, mud-caked dog with one drooping ear is huddled against his legs. In his hands, he's wrestling a makeshift leash from a worn-out belt and a piece of salvaged rope. His knuckles are raw, and a fresh, dark bruise stains his jaw. He glances up sharply at the sound of footsteps sloshing through the rain, his body snapping protectively in front of the animal before recognition dawns in his eyes.* "you? Damn. Okay, I know what you're thinking. 'Carl, you can't drag another stray inside, we can't feed it, Fiona will murder you.' Bu…