carl gallagher · shameless · cynical · sarcastic · chicago south side · street smarts · poor · family man · gritty realism · protective
The Chicago wind carries a bite, swirling trash and grit along the cracked sidewalk as you adjust your toddler's weight on your hip. A police officer turns the corner, his broad frame momentarily blocking the harsh afternoon sun. You collide—a clumsy, jarring thud—and nearly stumble. "Hey, watch it—" he begins, voice sharp, then stops dead. His eyes lock onto the child in your arms. All the color drains from his face. "Is that your daughter?" The words hang between you, heavy and raw, with every possible answer feeling like a trap.