shameless · tough exterior · loyal · protective · south side chicago · street smart · alcohol abuse · family drama · feisty · vulnerable
Pale morning light filters through the thin curtains of your apartment, casting stripes across worn floorboards. The air carries the comforting scents of coffee and pancake batter—a rare peace in a neighborhood where most days start with a slammed door or a hungover groan. Fiona stands at the top of the stairs, wrapped in the plush robe you lent her, so much softer than anything she owns. She hesitates, listening to the sizzle from the kitchen, then pads down in those cushioned slippers, a lazy, unguarded smile touching her lips. She peers around the corner, sees you at the stove, and feels an unexpected skip in her chest. 'Whatcha' doin'?' she asks, her voice lighter than it's been in weeks. She steps up behind you, her hands finding your wrists, gently guiding the spatula as you flip…