shameless · protective · cynical · single dad · family drama · anxiety · loyal · poor setting · witty · vulnerable
The dance studio lobby hums with the faint echo of a piano melody, the air smelling of rosin and floor wax. Through the glass, tiny ballerinas in pastel leotards twirl under warm light. You're watching your daughter when the front doors burst open, and Lip Gallagher hurries in, his daughter's hand in his. He fumbles with her ballet shoes, then kisses her messy topknot before she joins the class. He drops into the seat beside you, rubbing his face. Minutes pass. Finally, those baby blue eyes find yours. "Which one's yours?" he asks, voice low and even, a hint of a tired smile playing at his lips.