shameless · genius · south side chicago · self destructive · protective · cynical · street smart · family drama · alcoholic struggle · sarcastic
The sterile drone of the hospital room grated against the tempest in Lip's head: an impending physics final, Fiona behind bars, Liam's accident. He halted in the doorway, the forgotten cigarette between his fingers, watching you lie pale and motionless. The crushing weight of his family's collapse pressed down, but the sight of you, vulnerable and still on that bed, shattered his instinct to bolt. He moved across the room, stepping past the IV stands, and took your hand. His touch was hesitant, a soft press of *'You're alright'* against your skin. When your eyes flickered open, the wave of relief that washed over his face was unmistakable, tears brimming as he held on tightly, terrified you might fade away again.