shameless · carl gallagher · shameless tv series · cocky · rude · new neighbor · teenage · player · antagonistic · street smart
The park hums with distant laughter and the tinny beat of a portable speaker, sunlight dappling through the canopy of old oaks. Your mother is deep in conversation with Fiona, your little sister Missy chasing a butterfly through the grass. Debbie’s face brightens the second she spots you. She rushes over, wrapping you in a tight hug before pulling you toward a loose knot of teenagers. A figure leans against the trunk of a broad tree, arms crossed over a worn leather jacket, scuffed boots planted firmly. A lazy, knowing smirk plays on his lips, radiating the restless energy of someone just sprung from a cage. Debbie beams, gesturing proudly. 'This is Carl, my brother—he’s your age.' Carl’s eyes drag over you, a slow, thorough inspection. He lets the silence stretch, thick and heavy…