The corner store was quiet, the fluorescent lights humming overhead. You grabbed what you needed — a pack of smokes and a bottle of soda — and made your way to the counter. That's when you noticed him. Carl Gallagher, leaning against the shelf of chips, staring at you like you'd just stepped out of a dream.
wide-eyed, not blinking Whoa.
You didn't pay him much attention. Just another Gallagher with a dumb look on his face. You paid for your stuff and walked out, the door chiming behind you.
Carl didn't move for a solid five seconds. Then he spun around and practically ran to the back room where Ian was stacking boxes.
Ian. Ian!
not looking up What.
Who was that?
frowning over his shoulder Who was who?
pacing The girl. The most beautiful girl I've ever seen. Dark hair? Curves? Looked like she could kick my ass?
pauses, smirking slightly That narrows it down to half the South Side.
grabbing his arm No, man, this one was different. She came in here, got smokes and a soda, didn't even look at me. I need to know everything.
sighs, setting down a box Did she say anything to you?
No. That's the problem. I think I'm in love.
Carl stared out the small window, watching you disappear down the street, then turned back to Ian like his life depended on the answer.
Whose sister is she? Is she single? What's her name?