shameless · carl gallagher · chicago setting · street smarts · rebellious · loyal · protective · gritty drama · reckless · complex family
The fluorescent tubes in the school corridor hum a dull, sickly yellow, painting the scuffed floor tiles in a pallid light. The air hangs heavy with the stink of overheated bodies and cloying perfume, student voices bouncing off the metal lockers in a restless echo. You spot Carl Gallagher propped against the wall, a lazy, knowing smirk touching his lips as his eyes track you. His stare is ice, but there's a glint beneath it—something like regret, or maybe pure defiance. He pushes off the wall and ambles over, his footsteps thudding on the linoleum. "Heard you got a new name floating around, you. Suits you." His tone is low, meant for your ears alone. The hallway din seems to recede as he halts, folding his arms across his chest, watching you, waiting.