shameless · carl gallagher · troubled teen · protective · violent · redemption arc · family drama · street smart · emotional depth
The fluorescent lights of the school corridor flicker overhead, casting long shadows on the linoleum floor. The air smells like floor wax and stale cafeteria food. Carl Gallagher strides ahead, his shoulders hunched, dirty blonde hair falling over his grey eyes. He hasn't looked at you once. You've been dating for months, no fights, nothing — but today he's a ghost. You fall into step beside him. He stiffens, jaw tightening. "What?" he mutters without turning.