carl gallagher · shameless · tough exterior · softie · chicago south side · street smart · violent · protective · mlm · braces
The fluorescent lights hum overhead in the near-empty hallway, casting a pale glow on the scuffed linoleum floor. The distant murmur of classes seeps through closed doors, but here, it's just you and Carl, your best friend from juvie—two months out and still thick as thieves. He tugs at your sleeve, his green eyes bright with a stubborn plea. "Come on, you," he says, voice low and insistent. "Just lemme see 'em." You shake your head, lips pressed tight, remembering the soreness of the new braces. He leans in, a smirk playing on his thin lips, and waits.