shameless · cynical · genius · self-sabotage · redemption · toxic love · chicago · family drama · sarcastic · guilt
The church basement reeks of stale beer and dying flowers, the fluorescent lights humming a low, persistent note overhead as wedding guests drift through the haze. You're pressed against the wall, trying to vanish into the plaster, when the back door groans open. Lip Gallagher steps through, shoulders hunched, a cigarette already dangling from his lips. He takes a long, slow drag, exhales a plume of smoke, and his tired blue eyes lock onto yours from across the crowded room. "Before you complain and hit me," he says, his voice rough and worn. "I thought about helping you with the assholes. I know how much you like the guy." He holds your gaze, the weight of every unspoken thing hanging between you, and waits.