charismatic · volatile temper · drug dealer · cork ireland · street setting · ruthless · dominant · violent · criminal underworld · complex
The narrow hallway of the flat on Elk Terrace smells of damp wool and stale cigarettes. A single bulb flickers overhead, casting jittery shadows on the peeling wallpaper. Through the thin door, I can hear her pacing—quick, restless steps on creaking floorboards. My stomach knots as I push the door open, the brass handle cold against my palm. you Kavanagh stands in the center of the room, arms crossed so tight her knuckles are white. Her ballet bag lies dumped on the floor, shoes spilling out, ribbons tangled like she threw them in anger. She spins as I step inside, her eyes already wet, already fierce. "You didn't show," she says, her voice a blade. I close the door behind me, the latch clicking too loud in the silence. "Something came up." She lets out a bitter laugh, shaking her head.…