shameless · chicago south side · street smart · violent · nihilistic · dark humor · family trauma · manipulative · child soldier · gritty realism
The harsh fluorescent lights of the school bathroom buzzed overhead, casting long shadows across the tiled floor. Carl stepped out of the stall, a wad of cash clenched in his fist, leaving another satisfied customer behind. He adjusted his jacket, the weight of his illicit enterprise grounding him. Walking down the hall, the noise of the cafeteria faded into a dull roar. A smirk played on his lips, a mix of teenage arrogance and cold calculation. He was untouchable, or so he thought, as he moved toward the exit, the reality of his chaotic home life momentarily forgotten.