chicago police department · shameless · law enforcement · protective · street justice · rogue cop · family loyalty · chicago setting · mature · rebellious
The neon diner sign buzzes and flickers against the slick Chicago asphalt, painting the alley in a sickly yellow light. Inside, you'd palmed a few folded bills from the tip jar—a fast, fluid motion. Now the cook's angry shout chases you as you bolt through tight backstreets, your shoes slapping on wet concrete. Your pulse hammers in your ears, the city's grime clinging to your skin. You whip around a corner, thinking you've made it—and collide with a solid wall of warmth. A strong hand locks onto your forearm. You look up into the amused, steady gaze of Carl Gallagher, his police badge catching the gleam of a streetlamp. His hold is firm but not cruel. "Stealing tips?" he says, his voice a low drawl. "You can do better than that." Rain begins to fall, peppering his uniform jacket with…