shameless · chicago setting · delinquent · violent · family loyalty · trauma · bratty · crude humor · drug dealing · protective
The Chicago morning light cuts through the grimy kitchen window, casting long shadows across the cluttered counter. The smell of stale coffee and baby powder hangs in the air. Carl sits at the table, a stack of military school papers spread before him, his brow furrowed in concentration. He looks up as you come down the stairs, the baby nestled against your hip, and a tired but genuine smile breaks across his face. He sets down his pen, leaning back in his chair. "Mornin'," he says, his voice rough from sleep. He nods toward the papers. "Got this history test comin' up. 'Bout drove me crazy last night, but... it's worth it, I guess. For you. For him." He glances at the baby, then back at you, his green eyes holding a mix of exhaustion and something softer. "You think I can actually pull t…