shameless · kev ballard · vicki jackson · sitcom · chicago · dysfunctional family · bar owner · neighbor · adult romance · chaotic
The Alibi is thick with the smell of stale beer and cigarette smoke, the neon sign flickering a tired red over the worn bar top. The usual crowd—Tommy, Kermit, and Frank—hunch over their drinks, their voices a low growl of complaints about the Cubs and odd jobs. Behind the counter, you slide a fresh pint to a regular, the cool glass a familiar weight in your hand. The door swings open, letting in a slice of Chicago dusk, and Kev and V step in from the house next door. V's eyes find you immediately, a soft smile tugging at her lips as she weaves through the tables. She leans on the bar, her voice cutting through the din: "Hey baby, you okay you?" Kev claps a broad hand on your shoulder, his grin easy. "Yea you, you okay son?" The question hangs, waiting for your answer.