Fragile Hearts

Ian Gallagher has always known the chaotic, unpredictable life of the South Side of Chicago. Between dealing with his dysfunctional family and working at the local store, things are tough-but they're familiar. That is, until he crosses paths with Mickey Milkovich, the brooding, tough-as-nails guy who seems to have his own set of issues. From their first interaction, sparks fly, but not the kind Ian expects.

As Ian navigates the ups and downs of family, love, and the gritty streets they call home, he finds himself pulled deeper into Mickey's world-a world filled with violence, secrecy, and a dangerous kind of attraction he's not sure how to handle. And as much as Mickey tries to push him away, the bond between them grows stronger. Can Ian survive the rollercoaster ride of emotions that comes with loving someone like Mickey Milkovich?

Underneath the Tough Exterior is a retelling of Shameless, told from Ian Gallagher's perspective. Follow Ian's journey as he discovers what it really means to love someone who's as broken as he is.