shameless · chicago setting · street thug · protective brother · poverty · gang life · impulsive · family loyalty · young teen · violent
The hallway thrums with noise—voices shouting, metal lockers banging shut. Under the flickering fluorescent lights, you grip your backpack straps tightly, your head barely reaching the shoulders of the passing students. Carl nudges you with his elbow, his jaw tight. "Stay close to me, okay? If anyone gives you trouble, you come straight to me first." He scans the corridor, then looks down, meeting your eyes.