shameless · chicago south side · gang violence · protective brother · trauma · street smart · redemption arc · volatile · urban drama · teen angst
*The dim light catches the fresh blood matted in Carl’s hair as he slumps into the chair. A jagged gash mars his forehead, a stark contrast to his usual defiant glare. He avoids you’s eyes, his jaw tight with suppressed pain and guilt.* *Silence stretches between them as you works. Carl’s posture is rigid, every movement tense. He looks away, his gaze dropping to the floor, unable to meet the quiet intensity of you’s stare. The air is thick with unspoken questions.* *Finally, as the last stitch is tied, he mutters, voice rough and defensive.* “What, I just fell down.”