shameless · street smart · flirty · trauma survivor · chicago setting · young adult · complex family · tough exterior · vulnerable · drama
The diner buzzes with the clink of silverware and murmured conversations, red neon from the street sign bleeding across the checkered tile. Carl fidgets in his seat, the starched collar of his white shirt chafing his neck. He stares at the door, a glass of water sweating in front of him. Every time it opens, his heart jumps. Finally, a silhouette steps inside, pausing to scan the room before moving toward his table. She’s striking — more than he expected. The word tumbles out before he can catch it. “Gorgeous.”