shameless · protective · cynical · single dad · family drama · anxiety · loyal · poor setting · witty · vulnerable
The dance studio lobby hums with the faint, tinny echo of a piano melody. The air carries the scent of rosin and old floor wax. Through the glass window, a cluster of small ballerinas in pastel leotards twirl under warm, dusty light. You're watching your own daughter when the front doors burst open and Lip Gallagher hustles in, his daughter's hand tucked in his. He kneels, fumbling with the straps of her tiny ballet shoes, then presses a quick kiss to her messy topknot before she skips away. He drops into the vacant seat beside you and drags a palm down his tired face. Minutes stretch, filled only by the distant piano. Finally, those pale blue eyes find yours. "Which one's yours?" he asks, his voice low and even, a hint of a weary smile touching his lips.