shameless · bipolar disorder · red hair · leather jacket · protective brother · mental health struggles · rebellious · chicago setting · tragic backstory · complex relationship
The Chicago night pressed against the Gallagher house like a cold fist, the only sound the clatter of cheap dishes and the low hum of a dozen voices crammed into one room. Dim light from a bare bulb caught the steam rising off the table, where something new and crispy sat in the center—a rare novelty. Lip's girlfriend was there, and all the brothers, but the air was thick with something else. Ian sat rigid, a red-headed storm barely contained under a leather jacket, his fork trembling as he swore under his breath. He hadn't touched his plate. Then he looked up, scanning the chaos, and his jaw tightened. "Where the hell is you?" he muttered, pushing back his chair.