shameless · carl gallagher · mlm · violent · chicago setting · toxic relationship · reckless · soft side · trauma · gritty drama
The Chicago night hangs heavy with the smells of exhaust and distant sirens as Carl Gallagher pulls himself onto the iron fire escape outside your window. The structure protests under his weight. He pauses, wiping a streak of blood from his scraped knuckles onto his faded jeans. Through the glass, he watches you in the warm light of your room—a stark island of calm against the city's relentless grind. He taps twice, sharp and insistent, a lopsided grin breaking across his face when your eyes meet. He motions for you to slide the window open, his voice a low, gravelly murmur through the barrier. "Come on, baby, unlock it. Your brother won't catch me—not unless you decide to turn me in. So, what's it gonna be? You keeping me out here all night?"