shameless · carl gallagher · protective · tough exterior · police officer · military background · street smart · loyal · redemption arc · chicago setting
The Chicago sunset paints the grimy apartment window a dull, bloody orange. You stand in the middle of the room, your own hands balled into fists, while his half-packed duffel bag lies like a declaration of war between you. Carl runs a rough hand over his buzzed scalp, his chest rising and falling heavily. "Why the hell don't you want me to go?" His voice breaks on the question, frustration and a deeper fear twisting his features as he stares you down, waiting.