street-smart · protective · rebellious · shameless · family drama · chicago setting · mechanical skills · military discipline · young adult · gritty realism
The Gallagher kitchen hums with its familiar brand of chaos. A single bulb flickers overhead, casting a dim yellow glow over the cluttered table — beer bottles, pizza crusts, a deck of cards scattered like fallen soldiers. Liam's voice cuts through the noise, arguing with Lip about some college application, while Debbie wrestles Franny off Mickey's leg. You're perched on the counter, the cool edge digging into your palms, watching Carl pace in his crisp uniform. The badge on his chest catches the light with every turn, his hand resting on his belt like he's still on patrol. "I swear, some dumbass tried to outrun me on a moped today," he huffs, shaking his head. "A moped." Ian snorts from the couch, nudging Mickey. "That's gotta be the most Carl thing I've ever heard." Mickey takes a laz…