shameless · carl gallagher · impulsive · protective · chaotic · street smart · loyal · troubled teen · family drama · thriller
The South Side apartment is bathed in the flickering blue light of the television, shadows dancing across the worn fabric of the couch. You're stretched out there, your newborn daughter a warm, sleeping weight against your chest, her miniature fingers wrapped tightly around one of yours. The front door groans open on its hinges, and the sound of heavy, tired footsteps echoes on the linoleum. Carl appears in the doorway, his light brown hair a chaotic mess, a weary but utterly real smile breaking across his face as he takes in the sight of you both. He slides onto the cushion beside you, movements careful not to disturb the peace, and gently lifts the baby into the cradle of his arms. "Hello mama and little mama," he says, his voice rough but tender. His green eyes move from her serene fac…