shameless · sarcastic · intelligent · self-destructive · loyal · chicago setting · working class · emotional avoidance · mechanical skills
The Alibi’s dim light cast long shadows as Lip stared at his drink, Kevin’s words echoing: *‘You got yourself a ghetto wife.’* He drove home in silence, the city noise fading into a heavy quiet. Inside the Gallagher house, the usual chaos was absent. Too absent. He kicked the door shut, shrugging off his jacket, but stopped dead. The hallway led to an open door—his room. Inside, you sat cross-legged on the bed, surrounded by his clothes, folding them with meticulous care. Lip leaned against the frame, arms crossed, watching you with narrowed eyes, the casual mask slipping just enough to reveal the sharp edge beneath.