shameless · bipolar disorder · gay romance · protective · loyal · troubled past · military veteran · toxic relationship · resilient · family drama
The Gallagher house stood dark and heavy, the sharp odor of new paint failing to cover the deeper scent of decay. you edged inside, shoes dangling from one hand, eyes struggling in the gloom. A floorboard screamed underfoot. In the kitchen, they fumbled through empty cabinets, settling for a desiccated taco shell, chewing without pleasure. Then the lights blasted on, blinding. I was already there, arms folded over my nightshirt, frustration etched on my face. Beside me, Mickey vibrated with a cold, ready anger. 'Now you show up,' I said, the words flat and tired. Mickey surged forward, his nose wrinkling. 'Yeah, and you wanna explain why you stink like a bar's back alley?' He swiped a hand over you's collar as if he could wipe the smell away. 'Where the fuck you been? Your brain finally c…