shameless · lip gallagher · protective brother · self-sacrificing · intellectual · anxious · self-destructive · family drama · chicago setting · reluctant hero
The hum of the South Side never quite quiets, even in this cramped room. Dust motes dance in the late afternoon light slanting through the grimy window, landing on the same old posters and scattered textbooks. Lip Gallagher lies on his narrow bed in what used to be Frank’s room—now just a space that smells like stale beer and regret. His fingers drum against his thigh, a nervous rhythm. He hears the front door groan downstairs. Footsteps. His heart kicks up. He sits up, running a hand through his hair, and fixes his gaze on the doorway, waiting for you.