#Alfie Solomons fan fic

[padfootdaredmetoo]

Pt 6. Blood Bath

Things come to a head at Arrow House. The enemy makes their move as they have the Shelby family cornered.

Warnings: blood, graphic description of murder, panic, peaky themes

Previous Parts

Tommy watched the boy size him up, and he hated the respect he had for him. Noah cared about you more than he feared him. 

“Now before you round on me for kissing her, what are you going to do about that fucking priest.” The boy’s eyes were dark and his knuckles were white. 

So they had that conversation. 

“Need to clean this mess up first.” He answered not happy with the situation. 

“And after.” The boy pressed. 

“Haven't been in that business for a long time,” Tommy said not wanting to admit the murder he already had planned. 

“That’s still our business and -” 

“Then we’ll handle it together.” The words came out without thought. This seemed to put the boy at ease. 

“How long were you going to sleep on that?” His anger was understandable, he hated how much of himself he saw in the boy. 

“Only found out a few days ago-” The boy held up his hand. 

“Not the time to send people away. But you were going to do something about it.” Tommy gave him a nod, his patience wearing thin. This boy in his house questioning him on his love for his daughter. “Good. Sorry, Mr. Shelby.” 

Tommy cocked his head to the side slightly. 

“Just hate seeing her like that.” they both gave each other a nod. For your comfort, he let you stay in your own bed, unsurprised when he heard footsteps creaking into your room later that night.

Noah cared about you enough to be a man about the situation, and if a single kiss had you puking your guts out he felt like the danger of a pregnancy was too far away to be a concern. 

___________________________________________

You laid awake in bed thankful that Esme had looked after you throughout the afternoon. She made you some tea and broth, both helped settle your stomach but nothing helped the numbing buzz radiating through your system. Polly came through in the evening and brought you a glass of brandy. 

She had a look in her eye that told you Tommy must have mentioned what happened. She didnt say anything but mentioned she was in the room next door if you needed anything. 

Then the unthinkable, but somehow expected happened. Noah pushed your bedroom door open. He pointed to the bed and you nodded at him. 

“Will you freak out if I lay beside you?” 

“No.” You whispered back. He got into bed and you immediately made things indecent by moving up against his body. Feeling him close put the fears of him leaving at bay. 

“I’m worried you’ll break up with me.” You said softly, you were surprised you got the words out so clearly. 

“Definitely not going anywhere. As for the physical stuff, lots of time to figure it out.” 

“I don’t want you to think- like you know that I - just - erm - it’s just sort of complicated but - I do, I do want you.” Your chest closed up and swallowed in on itself like a black hole.  

“Woah, you have a thing for me? This whole time I thought we were just good friends.” He ran a hand through his hair blowing out a large breath. You swatted at him, wanting him to be serious. “I’m not going anywhere.” He whispered before kissing your temple. 

“I will figure it out.” 

“I know you will.” 

_______________________________________________

The next morning there was a severed hand tied to the gate. Johnny Dogs brought it up to the house and you caught a glimpse of the frozen hand before your dad redirected you and Noah to the downstairs to distract the children. 

“Why would they -” 

“It’s a warning, they know we are here and that they are coming,” Noah answered accepting another picture drawn by your little cousin Elena. “Thank you, darling.” He said giving her a pat on the shoulder. “It’s really good.” She looked up at him in adoration before running back to the coffee table to start on another one. 

You sunk into the couch next to him. You could feel he was tense, eyes scanning the room’s windows and doors periodically. You made up the excuse of needing the bathroom and dashed up to your room. 

Deep down you knew it was pointless, no one was going to come close enough to use it. Not to mention people used guns these days. But tucked in between your mattresses there was a large dagger. John and Esme had got it for you from a trip they took to the Highlands. You tied its case to your hip and pulled your long skirt over it. It was unnecessary but it calmed your nerves knowing you had something. 

You were on your way down the steps when Esme caught your arm. Her hair was more frazzled than usual and her eyes were wide. 

“Take Lizzie, round the kids up, and stay in the cellar.” You went back upstairs and told Lizzie. She moved very quickly, her house coat billowing behind her. She and Noah helped wrangle all the kids into the cellar. It was cold and slightly damp, but the adrenaline running through you kept you together. 

You did a head count and realized someone was missing. Elena was not here. 

“I’ll go back to grab Elena, stay here.” You told Noah who was about to protest. “I know where the rest of the hiding spots are if we can't make it back here. Just stay put.” You slipped out of the door and dashed down the hall before Lizzie could get involved. You ran downstairs looking for her everywhere. Then came back up and checked the kitchen. You were about to leave when you caught her in the corner of your eye. She was outside. 

You saw her red wool dress toddling towards a man standing at the edge of the woods. You opened the back door and felt the man's dark eyes land on you. The sounds of machine guns firing became unavoidable and you took a deep breath. 

“Elena” You called out to her thankful your voice didn’t shake. She turned around to look and you. “Come here.” She moved towards you and you got on your knee and whispered to her.

“Noah needs you in the cellar. Tell him I’m fine, that I’m hiding. Don’t stop for anyone or anything he really needs to see you.” Her little eyes lit up and she made a dash towards the house. 

You stood up and sized up your opponent. 

“Come have a walk with me.” He had a gun in his hand and you knew that it was your only option, but that didnt mean you would show it. With your head held high, you went with him. Once close enough you could see him properly. He was tall and had a large hat that shadowed his sunken face. “You want to save your family? Yes?” He had a slight accent. 

“Yeah, that’d be alright.” You said back casually, his eyes sparkled with curiosity. 

“Well, your father has something I want. You're going to help me get it.” 

“Alright.” You motioned for him to lead the way. You assumed you were a hostage, not a bad position really. He saw value in you, therefore he wouldn't kill you right away. You waited until he tucked his gun away, He took a few steps towards the forest turning his back on you. You quickly took out the dagger tucked into the top of your skirt and held it tightly. 

“The thing about your family -” Much to your relief he started his big story giving you a bit of time. Quickly to catch him off guard, you charged towards him, sending the dagger right under his left rib cage. 

________________________________________________________

Elena’s voice called on the other side of the door. Noah opened it while Finn was ready with his gun. The little girl ran in quickly hugging onto his legs. 

“She said you needed to see me.” 

“Where is she Elena,” He asked her while picking her up. She hugged onto his shoulders. “She said she's alright, she’s hiding.”

Panic shot through him and Finn quickly put a hand on his shoulder. 

“She knows where to hide here, she’s probably fine.” His jaw was tight as was the grip on his arm. Lizzie sniffed and suddenly got up. Noah looked around and did the math. Finn was most likely right, you sent Elena along and had to hide somewhere else. Going after you could put you in more danger, and it would leave Lizzie and the kids one man down. He knew that would only piss you off. 

He didn’t like it but it was a gamble he had to take. 

“She’s alright Lizzie. She mentioned earlier if she got separated she had a few places she would hide.” He lied, and Finn gave him a slight nod. Elena stayed attached to him so he held on to her and tucked the gun he was given into his waistband. Down here it was painfully silent as Lizzie kept the kids comfortable. 

“Hey, did your dad ever tell you about the time he, Tommy, and my dad got into a fight with a bear?” The kid's eyes all lit up and he sat down on a barrel and started to tell the story about the bear in the pub. 

________________________________________________________

The knife pierced his lanky body and a gasp left his mouth. Your hand slipped into his jacket quickly and you grabbed his gun. 

“You -” He said starting up again and you shot him, in the back, straight in the chest. The man's body crumpled. 

Faces of your father and the priest started to swim in your head. Anxiety ripped through you as the blood seeped into the white snow. Flipping him over you grabbed his wallet. 

“Luca Changretta” You whispered. Well, that wasn’t so bad. You looked down at the man's dark eyes and something inside you lessened. There were plenty of bad men in the world but now there was one less. You did that. 

You thought of the hand-tied to the gate and let out a sigh. If that’s how these people did things, that’s just what you would have to do. You pulled your dagger out and your hands got coated in thick blood. Moving the knife to his throat you started hacking and carving away. 

It surprised you how rubbery everything was, in your mind the stupid thing would just tople off. As you worked your mind tried to argue that this was a horrible thing you had done. But something in the pit of your stomach reminded you what horrible men were capable of. Maybe God's sense of humor is what allowed the dagger to pierce his flesh. 

Eventually, you were covered in blood and you had a head to gift back to the Italians. You ran in the snow down the hill along the side of the house. The front yard was a complete mess. The snow was red, everything was red. Your mind swam but you kept moving forward, those were your men getting shot at. 

You could see that they had made a sort of barricade and the Italians were making it down the driveway. Unsure of what to do you waited for the silence as they reloaded and let out a loud wolf whistle. You held the head up high and a roar of shouts erupted from both sides. 

Before you could take another step a large bear-like figure tackled you down from the side. You instinctively used the dagger's handle to smash into its face before your arm got caught by a massive hand.

It was Alfie, in a big fur coat, looking very pissed. 

“Sorry, Mr. Solomons” You whispered weakly, hoping you hadn't hit him too hard. 

“You're just like your father - fucking troublemaker.” He grumbled keeping his body over yours as bullets rang out. “Take his head and run down the hill. Not go in through the back door, come out the front door, and give the head to us? Eh?” 

“No class with you people. Straight savagery every time.” he continued to chatter on and it was nice to have something distracting you. The snow was deep enough that if they didnt move they were probably out of vision. He moved up slightly to look over the snow. 

“Looks like you gave them the distraction they needed though, chasing them down the drive.” He let out a rumbling sigh. 

“So, you were going to run down the hill causing a distraction?” You asked him, he looked down at you and narrowed his eyes. 

“That’s business between me and your father.” He said in a low voice. There was a long silence and Alfie still kept you there. Your teeth started to chatter and you realized your hand was still fisted in Luca’s black hair. 

“Nah, don’t start thinking about it. I don’t know how you did it but wait for a glass of whiskey. Trust me you'll be alright.” 

You gave him a nod hoping he wasn't angry. Then your father pulled him off of you and picked you up. He crushed you against himself  and you wondered how he could still carry you despite your size. You closed your eyes not ready to deal with everything yet. 

He got you onto the couch in his study and tried to take the head away from you. It took you a long moment to realize you could let go now. You took a deep breath untangling your fingers. Tommy’s hands ran over you before a loud scream erupted. Esme was there with a look of horror on her face. Polly soon followed. 

Various questions were flying around you their hands trying to push your hair back and get the blood off your face. 

“Sorry.” You mumbled eyes locked on Tommy. “His body was too big to drag in the snow.” It seemed significant to apologize as you got blood all over the sofa. 

“Eh, knew that knife was a good gift,” John mumbled picking the knife up off the sofa beside you.

“Hacked his head off, all by herself. They grow up so fast.” Arthur boomed looking at you with pride in his eyes. Esme gave them both a murderous look and suddenly they followed Alfie out of the study. 

Polly locked eyes with Tommy who was kneeling directly in front of you. After one last look, he gave her a nod. He squeezed your hand and stood up. Polly and Esme led you up the stairs and guided you into your parent’s bathroom. It was larger than yours, but the blood smearing all over the white tiles made your stomach flutter. They sat you down on the lid of the toilet. 

The warm air stung your skin and your lungs. When the door pushed open you felt your body get swallowed up in hot guilt. Lizzie looked positively feral. Her arms wrapped around you, your mind thawed out and tears started to form.

After a long while, she took a few deep breaths before helping you into a bath. First, you showered with warm-ish water to get the blood off and to get your limbs back to a normal temperature. By that point, Polly had come back with her arms full of herbs and oils. 

You sat in the bathtub and she poured various things over you. The scent stung your eyes but you felt your heart lurch then become lighter somehow.  

“How are the kids? Noah?” You finally whispered. 

“Surprisingly, only a few minor injuries in the men, and everyone in the house was fine,” Esme answered while Lizzie gazed at the tiles on the wall. Her hand was on her belly and you could tell by the set in her jaw she was angry with Thomas. 

_______________________________________________

Once you were cleaned up Lizzie got you tucked into your bed. 

“I told everyone you need to rest. We can deal with everything in the morning.” She kissed your forehead and ran a hand through your hair. She left and the sadness and anger that radiated off of her brought in a fresh wave of uncertainty and anxiety. 

Tommy came in a short while after. He sat on the edge of your bed looking into the fire. 

“You have any questions or things bothering you?” He asked in a faraway voice. 

“No, I feel a bit better honestly.” You sighed and his gaze flicked to you. “Spent a lot of time running from men like that. Now I don’t feel so helpless. Plus I think that was the last of the past coming back for you. Alfie didn’t sell you out. Things on my side are looking pretty good.” 

He gave you a hard look and then nodded. You knew he was dreading talking to Lizzie. 

“Dad, I shouldn't have landed that blow. It was beyond lucky, I think it was just what was supposed to happen. Elena had been lost, he was going to snatch her up, probably in exchange for John. I sent her back and he was happier with me anyway. The whole thing was lucky.” He took in what you were saying and you knew he didnt know how to respond. 

“Please make her understand it wasn't your fault, If you could blame anyone blame Elena for wanting snacks from the kitchen, but she’s five, and me and Esme will fight you.” You took a few breaths but it was getting hard to breathe again. “She’s got to understand, all of us need to stick together.” Tommy put down his glass of whiskey on your side table and put his hands on your shoulders. “That’s why everything worked out all right - it’s because we stuck together- if you guys break up-” You couldn't talk anymore, your body got light and heavy at the same time, and your vision started to get blurry. 

“Stop.” He commanded and you took a deep breath. “It will take a lot more than Lizzie’s anger to tear us apart. Trust me, I don't give up that easy.” 

You nodded and he pushed you down into your bed. You curled up on your side holding his hand. 

“It’s like with the storm, I needed to face this.”

He gave you a nod and kissed the top of your forehead. “Drink this if you can’t sleep.” He left his whiskey on the side table. “Come get me if you need anything.” 

With that, he got up and left your door slightly ajar. 

______________________________________________________________

He didn’t like what he did next. But he knew it would keep your mind off of things and put the boy out of his misery. He knocked on the door and waited for Noah to respond. 

He opened the door and could see that he had been pacing, much like himself. 

“She’s alright, bit fragile though.” He said watching the boy muster up the courage to ask the question Tommy knew he was struggling with. “If you wouldn't mind staying with her, I think it might help.” Tommy saw the boy light up but quickly composed himself. 

“I could do that.” He said calmly. 

“No messing around.” He said sternly before giving the boy a nod and leaving the room to go fight some more battles. 

Lizzie was rummaging through her closet and Tommy realized this was probably a lot worse than he realized. He sat on the edge of the bed waiting for her to start up when he heard her give a shout. 

“Stupid fucking -” He saw her trying to reach a box high on the shelf. Part of him wanted to leave it there, so she couldn't pack it, and maybe it would prevent her from trying to leave. He sighed looking up at the box. 

“You're a lot of things- short is one of them” She bit out crossing her arms. He pulled the stool out of the corner and he grabbed the box for her. She accepted the box and started rummaging through the folded clothes. “She could have died.” 

“I know.” 

“That’s it, you know, and what!?” 

“And she didn’t. She saved Elena. She outsmarted Luca and tried to protect her family. I’m not happy about it, but I am grateful she’s alright.” 

“Thomas - she's 17 - it was a blood bath, in no way is she alright.” Lizzie snapped. 

“She said she needed to face this, she’s run from men like that her whole life. I don’t like it, I feel like I failed her every time she opens up about her past, when she was there covered in blood, I knew I failed her. But you leaving right now will be what kills her.” He knew it was underhanded and mean. 

“Leaving?!” Her eyes narrowed and Tommy was grateful that the box didnt have anything hard or dangerous in it. She threw a yellow nightgown at him. “YOU THINK AFTER EVERYTHING I WOULD LEAVE HER HERE WITH YOU.” She started to rage and she almost tripped over another pile of clothes on the closet floor. He stedied her and shut the door hoping it concealed some of the anger. 

She held on to him and tried to catch her breath. 

“Well, your tearing the closet apart, I thought -” 

“You, as always, thought wrong, stupid man.” She kept her slender fingers gripping his shoulder and he wondered what was going to happen next. Tears started to fall down her cheeks. “I’m too fat.” 

Tommy was glad he rarely smiled or laughed, in that moment he knew that either of those things would have been a deadly mistake. 

“I can’t fit my nightgowns anymore, the maternity ones I have remind me of Ruby.” Her voice broke and he pulled her into his arms. They stood like that for a long while. He ran his hand up and down her back, realizing if not for Ruby, he may never have been this lucky and blessed in his life. In the end, he was very sure that it was always Lizzie. She fought him every step of the way, but at the same time that also meant she chose him every single time. 

He guided her to the bed and pulled out one of his long sleep shirts. It was broad and baggy, and would easily cover her frame and the ever-growing bump, long enough for him to order her some new maternity gowns. She let him undress her, then slid the cotton shirt over her head. 

“I am sorry - for everything.” 

“I know you are.” She said softly. “Thank you, for keeping the family safe.” He didnt know how to respond to that so he gave her a kiss. They settled into bed and he turned the lights out. For a moment he thought he might finally drift to sleep when Lizzie opened her mouth. 

“So the bear in the pub huh?” Tommy let out a groan.

“Where did you hear about that?” 

“Noah, he told the kids the story to keep them quiet. He’s really good with children, I think if Elena was a bit old she would try to challenge her for him.” 

“Fucking boy.” Tommy pinched the bridge of his nose wondering why out of all the other 17-year-olds on the planet you had to pick that one. 

_________________________________

You closed your eyes and felt good that there was nothing but darkness. No men, no blood, just an empty void. It only lasted a few moments before you heard Lizzie's muffled shouting. Your stomach rolled and you opened your eyes to look around your bedroom. The fire gave everything an inviting glow, it truly felt like your piece of the world. The thought of it being torn apart made you want to cry. 

A soft tap at the door made you jump. You poked your head out of your blankets to see Noah. He forgot himself for a moment and dashed towards you. He wrapped you up into his arms and you fell back against the bed. You had a moment of initial shock before you sought out his mouth. You kissed him hard, and you felt his hands stay firmly in place on your back. 

He broke the kiss and stood up moving off the bed. His face was flushed and his hair was a mess of curls. More than anything you wanted him to come back, you wanted his hands all over you. Remembering what it was like pushing him off of yourself to vomit made you calm down a bit. You knew you needed to move slowly, no matter how much you hated it. It wasn't fair to Noah. 

“Sorry - I promised your dad I wouldn't mess around.” He took a deep breath looking at the ceiling. 

“My dad sent you.” Your eyebrows knitted together. 

“Yeah, didnt want you to be alone.” He came back to you and you moved over as he climbed into bed. 

“Actually?” 

“Yeah, he looked really worried. Don’t want to push him any further today.” He said tucking in next to you. Your body felt like it was on fire as he ran a hand through your hair. “Why are their flowers stuck in your hair?” 

“Oh, Polly gave me a bath to make sure I wasn't traumatized or haunted.” 

“Oh yeah.” He gave a nod and you let out a soft laugh at his expression of confusion.

“Guess your family doesn't do that.” 

“No, not really. Lot’s to learn about.” 

“Likewise. Mum said you really helped keep the kids distracted. Thanks for doing that.” 

“Don’t worry about it. I’m sorry I didnt go after you, Finn said you would know where to hide. Isaiah came later and said he thought you were with Polly and Esme” His arms tightened his grip on you and you fought to keep your heart in check. 

“Knowing they were safe with you made it easier to deal with the situation.” 

“It’s over - never again, I’m - I’ll figure out a way to keep you from everything.” 

“What do you mean?” There was an edge to your words. 

“We - I can’t go through that again.” His voice was heavy. “I need to sort out with my dad how to clean things up on our side.” 

“Meaning you want things to be more legal?” The edge had turned to straight panic at the thought of him leaving. 

“Yes, for myself, but also because your dad is right. He fought really hard to get things clean. He even sent your uncles to prison once. I won’t take you back into that place. All of them would come after you. Won’t bring everything he built toppling down. Not when you could get hurt” 

His face finally looked down to meet yours. He must have seen the anxiety eating you. 

“What I’m saying is, I want to do good things with my life, and I want to build you something good too. Because - I - I love you.” You started up at him in disbelief. 

“I love you too.” You breathed. 

It took a long time to fall asleep, but eventually, you drifted off in his arms. At some point, the morning began as light poured in through your windows. Esme poked her face in and you met her eyes. She gave you a thumbs-up and a wink before shutting the door. 

You relised then that the rain was thundering on the roof. A sadness filled your chest, but insdead of dealing with it, you pressed your face against his neck and went back to sleep.

[buttercupsandboys]

Sunshine & Rainbows

Alfie Solomons x Livy (OFC) — Chapter 15

18+ NSFW - minors don’t interact 🙅🏻‍♀️

MASTERLIST | READ ON AO3

CHAPTER 15: only love could hurt like this

Summary: The Shelby women torment Alfie and secrets are revealed ...

TW: language typical of Peaky Blinders, a touch of angst

Word count: 3273

A/N: It’s been a while, so here’s a super quick recap! (Or click here to read Chapter 14 again!)

Alfie found out Livy was missing, then beat the crap out of Tommy. A few hours later, Polly and Esme show up at his hotel room ...

This chapter picks up right where we left off. 

“Well, go on then,” Alfie demands. “We haven’t got all fucking night. Where is she?”

Polly chuckles darkly, looking far too amused for his liking. She takes a moment to light a cigarette, raising it to her painted lips before replying. “And what makes you think I’m just going to hand over that information?”

Fucking hell.

The room goes deathly silent, save for the ominous tick of the clock, reminiscent of a bomb just waiting to explode.

… much like Alfie's stormy expression.

He��s exhausted, and his patience has officially run out. A volatile mix at the best of times, but with Livy gone, the look on his face is more than a threat. It’s a promise of violence.

But Polly doesn’t notice or, more likely, doesn’t care. Instead of backing down, like any sensible being, she stands with one hand on her hip and the other in the air, smoke dancing from her fingers, chin raised like the Queen of fucking England.

“‘Cause that’s what you said, ain’t it?” He glares at her through narrowed eyes. “You asked if I wanted to find Livy.”

“Exactly,” she smirks. “I asked if you wanted to find her. I didn’t say I would tell you where she is.”

Alfie considers snatching her cigarette and shoving it down her slender throat. Polly’s asking for trouble, pushing his buttons at the worst possible time, and they all know it. It’s almost like she wants to see him lose his temper, or at least expects it.

But he is nothing, if not unpredictable.

Despite the displeasure written across his features, Alfie remains seated. He doesn’t speak, barely even blinks as he raises his fist and cracks his knuckles, slowly and methodically, one by one.

The women watch on, seemingly unfazed, but the longer Alfie sits and stares, face like a predator stalking his prey, the more their facade begins to crumble. They are bold, not stupid, or so it seems. The minutes pass, and Polly takes a hesitant step backwards, Esme following suit, dropping her boots to the floor as they brace for an explosion.

Alfie surprises them all. He should be fucking furious, but his blood cools when he recognises this for what it is: a negotiation. And despite the high stakes, the familiarity of it all is comforting.

This is one game he knows how to play.

“Right, then.” Alfie grins as he leans back and spreads his arms wide. Everything is still fucked, Livy is still fucking missing, but at least he has something to work with. “Let’s talk, love. Why don’t you tell me what you want, yeah?”

“For you to fuck off,” Esme mutters, confidence restored now that the danger has passed.

Polly shoots her a stern look before returning to Alfie. “What makes you think I want anything, Mr Solomons?” she asks, cool and composed behind a cloud of smoke.

Alfie laughs; in another time, another place, he might genuinely enjoy their banter.

“Don’t play coy, sweetie. It’s three in the fucking morning. Now she”—Alfie waves in Esme’s general direction—“she might be here for Livy. But you?” he huffs. “You’ve got too much Shelby in you.”

Polly’s mouth falls open, a retort on the tip of her tongue, but Alfie cuts her off with a raised palm.

“I don’t want to hear it, yeah. Normally I’m happy to go along with these little games you fucking gypsies love so fucking much. But tonight, I’m going to need you to get to the point, ya hear?”

Alfie watches as Polly visibly bristles, her lips pressed in a firm line, her spine impossibly straighter. But the Shelby matriarch quickly recovers.

“Of course, Mr Solomons,” she replies, her voice and smile sickly sweet. “You’re obviously a very intelligent man.”

Polly waits for a reaction, but unfortunately for her, Alfie is a very intelligent man. So he ignores the trite tactic and gives her 30 fucking seconds to explain herself. The clock continues to tick, and he resumes cracking his knuckles; it’s a veritable symphony of unspoken aggression.

“Fine,” Polly huffs, rolling her dark eyes when it becomes clear they're doing this on his terms. “I need your help,” she reluctantly admits. “I’m not sure if you’re aware, but I have a son….”

Livy wiggles her toes, delighting in the morning dew against her bare skin. The sun is low on the horizon, but it’s already promising to be a beautiful day. The air is crisp, the birds are singing, and she half expects rainbows to fall from the sky. She breathes deeply and, for a few minutes, finds peace.

Almost.

Because then she remembers what brought her here.

With a groan, Livy flops on the grass, not caring about her state of dress—or her hair, for that matter, her scarlet locks tangled, free from adornments save for a few twigs and burrs. She’s feeling quite sorry for herself as she drapes her arm across her eyes, the weight pressing her into the damp earth. If only it would open and swallow her whole.

“Well, Holy Lord God, it’s Livy Lou, queen of the fairies. What would your father say if he saw you like this?”

Livy smiles at the familiar voice, lips curling despite her melancholy.

“That we should bury our sorrows and rise like the sun,” she recites.

“Rise like the sun,” Aberama repeats as he drops into the grass beside her, stretching his long legs and propping himself on an elbow. “A mighty wise man, your William.”

She hums in agreement, grateful for the company, and together they sit in comfortable silence, watching the sun rise higher in the sky. Minutes pass until it blinds—not the light but the unfettered hope that for once feels so fucking foreign—and Livy turns away, tracing the ground, wishing she could take her father’s advice.

But her sorrows refuse to stay buried.

As she inspects the dirt beneath her brightly painted nails, Livy can’t help but wonder if she made the right decision. Which is strange in and of itself; usually, she’s so confident, trusting her gut and following it faithfully, eyes on the horizon, never looking back. It’s her life’s motto and often the only thing keeping her sane.

Except now she’s in love with Alfie—and doesn’t that just change everything?

She wipes her hands on her dress and closes her eyes to avoid Aberama’s curious gaze. Being here with him reminds Livy of those first months after escaping Bernard. It was all new then; the kind faces and open fires that chased away the darkness, smoke and songs accompanying them into the night. As joy and laughter replaced fear and pain, she was, in many ways, reborn.

How fitting that she should find herself here again.

Last night was a turning point, and Livy knows it, although she’s not ready to face the truth. Instead, it would be easier to ignore altogether, to fall into the comfortable rhythm of life on the road and let it consume her as she rides out this chapter.

With enough time and enough whiskey (or perhaps that broody Shelby gin), she might come to see this nightmare as a blessing in disguise. Livy was truthful with Esme; she missed the life, the freedom, even the creaky wheels beneath her bed.

One door closes, another opens—right?

Livy snorts before she can stop herself, drawing another look from Aberama, who she continues to ignore. Her usual optimism has bolted, much like Cyril, who is off in the bushes chasing a rabbit. This is no blessing, of that she’s sure. More like a lesson—the universe punishing her for holding too tightly onto something that was never hers to begin with.

Of course, Livy knew this day would come, but she wasn’t expecting this.

Only love could hurt like this.

His scent still lingers on her skin—warm and slightly spiced, like rum and sweat and home—and despite everything, a part of her wants him back. She misses Alfie dreadfully; those beautiful lips, maddeningly distracting as they trace the valley of her breasts, his whiskers teasing her flesh, leaving his mark behind.

Just like the mark he left on her soul, and he should be hers, even though logic and reason tell her to run and run and run.

And she will because as much as Livy hates to admit it, the truth is she’s terrified.

Not of Bernard McCall or Thomas Shelby, as one would reasonably expect…

No, Livy is afraid of Alfie.

Because if he knew about Bernard and still chose to do business with him, he couldn’t possibly love her back.

And how on earth is she supposed to survive that kind of heartbreak?

Livy shakes her head.

She’s always been impulsive, but she’s never been in love, and sometimes it’s easier to give everything up than to have it all taken from you.

She picks a blade of grass and pretends to be fascinated by the vibrant shade of green when Aberama reaches over and plucks it from her fingers.

“You know…” He pauses, eyeing Livy from beneath his low-slung hat. “I didn’t expect to see you again. At least, not anytime soon.”

Livy blushes at the unspoken question, her thick lashes kissing her cheeks as she averts her eyes. How can she explain when she barely understands herself? Everything is jumbled, and she’s never felt so confused.

“Yes, well, you see …”

She bites her lip and considers how much to share with Aberama. He’s fiercely protective of those he considers family, and Livy’s fortunate to count herself among the few not related by blood. But she doesn’t want to see a bullet with Alfie’s name on it. At least not yet.

“I’m taking precautions,” she finally replies. “Keeping a low profile for a bit.”

“Precautions?” Aberama repeats. He stares for a long minute before wiping his palm on his thigh and extending his hand. “Well, come on then. You know the promise I made to your father.”

Livy nods in relief and accepts his hand as he pulls her to her feet. She’s grateful for the help—and the lack of questions—but it’s still too much. The weight of everything is drowning her, and she needs a distraction, something familiar to ease her troubled mind.

“Aberama, darling, do you still keep that blade inside your boot?”

He flashes a brilliant smile.

“What the fuck does Michael have to do with anything?” sputters Esme, the shock written across her tired face.

Polly ignores her, keeping her chin raised and eyes hard, refusing to wilt beneath Alfie’s probing stare.

“Michael has recently shown an interest in joining the family business,” she continues. “But Thomas has … ambitions that come with unnecessary risk. Risks I cannot allow my son to be exposed to.”

“Right…,” mutters Alfie, stroking his beard as he contemplates her words. It’s just as he suspected: a fucking mess. “And what the fuck does this have to do with me?”

“I need you to terminate the deal with Bernard McCall. Ensure Thomas no longer has access to Liverpool.”

“Why would you want that?”

“Does it matter?” she snaps. “Help me, and I’ll help you find Livy.”

His heart clenches at the sound of her name, and in that moment, he’d sign away his fortune, his bakery, anything to get her back.

But then he has a better idea.

“Tell me more about your business in Liverpool,” Alfie demands.

Her eyes flash darkly. “Our business is not your concern.” Polly exchanges a look with Esme, and her face softens. “But I’ll make you a deal, Mr Solomons. Agree to help me, and I’ll tell you more about Bernard McCall. And trust me, there are things you need to know.”

“Trust you,” Alfie repeats, the words hanging heavy in the air. “Right, well that’s just it, Mrs Gray. Trust is a fragile thing.” He strokes his jaw. “And what about your boy? Is he … fragile?”

Polly leaps forward. “Are you threatening—“

Alfie stands, towering over her with his broad frame. “I don’t make threats,” he warns, advancing slowly until she has to crane her neck to face him. “Now, you’re going to tell me about Liverpool, you’re going to tell me about Bernard, and you’re going to help me find Livy. If she’s safe, nothing will happen to your precious son, and in exchange, I will end things in Liverpool.”

She glares at him, and Alfie can only imagine the gypsy curse she’s placing on his black soul. But he’s already damned, so he returns her cold stare. Livy is all that matters now, and he’d deal with the devil—or worse, a Shelby—to get her back.

“Fine,” Polly finally agrees, spitting on her palm and extending it to him. Alfie responds in kind, and she nods, inhaling deeply from her cigarette.

“Thomas is working with a group of Americans who support the Bolsheviks,” she begins, taking a seat. “He’s importing weapons from them under the protection of Shelby Company Limited. But security is tight in London, which is why he needs Liverpool.”

Alfie briefly closes his eyes. “Fucking hell. Meddling with the Russians, that silly boy.”

She snorts. “Exactly. It’s going to blow up in his face, and I don’t want Micheal around when it does.”

“And what about Livy?” he asks sharply. “Don’t fucking tell me she has anything to do with—“

“No, not the Russians,” she reassures him. But something in her tone has him on edge.

“But what?” he demands.

Polly gives him a sad smile. “Alfie.” It's the first time she’s used his given name, and a chill runs down his spine. “I’m assuming you know that Livy had a … difficult past?”

A growl escapes from his chest, a feral sound, raw and violent. “Yeah, I fucking know. And when I find the fucker responsible….”

Alfie trails off at the look on the women’s faces.

No.

Oh, fuck no.

The table goes flying, splintering into pieces, just like his heart.

“Bernard?”

“Yes.” Polly and Esme reply in unison.

He wants to vomit.

Alfie has a strong stomach—after France, not much offends him—but when he thinks about Livy, he nearly drops to his knees.

And he will soon, to beg her forgiveness.

But for now, violence will have to do.

“I’m going to kill him. I’m going to fucking kill him.” He stalks forward, reaching for Polly, unable to stop himself. “Does he have her?” he roars, yanking her to her feet. “Does he fucking have her?”

Polly remains oddly calm. “No,” she assures him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.

Alfie lets go, visibly relieved. “Right, then where the fuck is she?”

Polly and Esme exchange another look, and he glances around for something else to throw.

“Stop with the fucking faces and tell me where to find Livy before I cut off your—”

“She doesn’t want to be found,” interrupts Polly.

“I don’t give a fuck what she wants—“

“Maybe that’s the problem,” snaps Esme, arms folded defiantly across her chest. “You men are all the same. How do we know you’re not working with Bernard?”

“Esme, shut up,” retorts Polly.

“No, you shut it. Neither of you care about her, it’s all about Michael with you, and fuck knows what he wants—“

“Enough,” roars Alfie, his temper at breaking point. “Fucking, enough. I love her, yeah, and that’s all you need to fucking know. So gather your shit, and let’s go get her.”

There’s a moment of stunned silence before Polly nods, looking relieved as she collects her bag and makes for the door. But Esme stares at him, eyes dark like the window to her soul.

“I don’t give a fuck what they say about you,” she announces, stalking forward until she’s toe to toe with him. The top of her head barely grazes his chin, but Esme speaks with a confidence that betrays her small frame. “If anything happens to her, it’s you that will be afraid of me. Do you understand? I’ll be watching you, Mr Solomons.”

She takes a few steps backwards. “Always watching,” she repeats before turning on her heel, leaving Alfie no choice but to follow.

Bloody Shelby women.

“Fuck off, no. Categorical.” Alfie pokes the side of the wagon with his cane. “That there, right, is a coffin on wheels. If you want to travel like the living dead, knock yourself out. But you see, for my people, it’s a matter of principle, ain’t it?”

Polly sighs. “Do you want to find Livy or not? We can’t go any further by car, and it’s too far to travel by foot. So unless you want to ride a horse, this is your only option.”

“Ride a fucking horse,” Alfie mutters as he steps forward and nearly loses a shoe in the mud. “This is just fucking perfect, innit? Drag me out in the middle of nowhere, in one of your curious gypo wagons, yeah? Then you put a bullet in my fucking skull, and when my poor Jewish soul is liberated from my body—“

“I can’t fucking do this,” mutters Polly, closing her eyes and pinching the bridge of her nose. She takes a deep breath and gathers her strength. “Mr Solomons, please, I implore you. Get in the fucking wagon. If there’s any hope of finding Livy, we need to move quickly.”

Alfie nods and, for once, does as he’s told.

The mud and wagon had provided temporary distraction, but now his nausea returns with a vengeance. His head is spinning, his mind frantic, desperate to pinpoint the moment where everything went so horribly wrong. How the fuck did this happen? All his men—a network of spies, a fortune in bribes—and not one goddamn whisper about that bastard McCall.

Because they’re all bad men, but there are just some lines you don’t fucking cross.

Alfie grits his teeth and settles into the vardo (which is surprisingly comfortable, although he’ll never admit it) when the truth hits him squarely in the face.

Thomas fucking Shelby.

It’s the only explanation. Somehow he knew the truth about Bernard and Livy, and purposely kept it from him to protect the Liverpool deal.

Because of the fucking Russians.

Alfie groans and runs a hand down his face, recalling the conversation in Tommy’s office. It’s all coming together now, and it’s not fucking good. Livy is gone, and he’d bet his left nut both Bernard and Thomas are searching for her, making this whole fiasco a race against time.

And here he is—creeping across the countryside in a fucking box.

To make things worse, his fate lies in the hands of not one but two Shelby women and for all he knows, he’s riding headfirst into a trap. But what choice does he have? He’s armed and angry, a dangerous mix, fueled by emotions that are entirely new, fucking raw, and he will find Livy because right now nothing else matters.

Of course, what happens after he finds her is another story.

Fucking hell.

Just 24 hours ago, he was working up the courage to share his feelings. Now he’ll be lucky if she doesn’t cut his fucking balls off.

And that’s if Livy agrees to see him.

Alfie shakes his head and sits taller in his seat. He’s negotiated ‘deal or die’ offers with some of Britain’s most dangerous men, and this is Livy. His Livy. When he finds her, he won’t give her a choice. After all, it was God himself who delivered her to his doorstep.

Some things are meant to be, and once he has her in his arms, he won’t let her go again.

A/N: So ... let me know what you think! I really wanted this chapter to be longer, but honestly, I’ve been sitting on this for months. It got to a point where I think I just needed to publish it, so I could get creatively unstuck! 🙈

Or at least, let’s hope! 

Thanks to everyone still reading this story. I appreciate all of you xx

Tag List: @noz4a2 @confessionbrain​ @omgeternal​ @potter-solomons​​ @quarterpastmidnight​ @woofgocows​ @shaddixlife​ @redhead7799 @cillmequick​@goddessfuck @peakyscillian

[megangovier]

@hecatemoon87

Alfie Solomons: Choker

Warnings ⚠️ Smut

Minors DNI!!

You've received a present from Alfie.

It's a black box with a red bow securing the top. You untie the bow and remove the lid, discovering the gift within.

It's a black velvet choker.

There's a note inside that reads:

For my pretty, pet. Place this around your petite throat when my hand cannot.

You blush, and quickly hide the note. You've only recently started sleeping with Alfie.

He discovered you liked being choked during sex.

In fact, you both discovered it because you had no idea how much you enjoyed his big, strong hand clutching your throat as his big, strong cock spread you open.

You go to your room and carefully put the choker on. It looks lovely and perfectly normal. Only you and Alfie know it's perverse meaning.

You go to work, and schedule meetings, organize and catalog contracts and other legal documents.

You know he is watching you. You feel his eyes on you as you do your work. You ignore him, though, as you do have a job to perform.

But you secretly smile to yourself as you know what he wants. And today, he seems very distracted by you.

"Fuck it. You, in my office, now," Alfie demands.

You are the only woman here, the rest are men who just think the secretary is in trouble.

You know better and follow Alfie into his office, closing and locking the door behind you.

"Yes, Alfie?" You said politely.

He's behind his desk, locking something in a drawer.

"I see you got my present," he said, pocketing the key and coming over to you. His intense eyes are drinking you in as he speaks.

"Yes, it's rather lovely, but it doesn't quite feel like the real thing," you said, coyly touching the choker.

Alfie chuckled and slipped an arm around your back, pulling you into him.

"I wanted to kiss you all day," he said.

"Well, here I am," you replied.

He takes that as permission, and he kisses you. He is such an excellent kisser. It's intoxicating and that's really all that it takes for you to get moist.

"Take me, now please?" You practically beg.

He chuckled, brushing his thumb over your choker. "Alright, dove, alright, don't fret."

He brings you over to his desk, and you hike up your dress, revealing your bare bottom.

Alfie sucks in some air, gliding his thumbs over your exposed cheeks.

"You mean to tell me you were sitting there all day without your knickers?"

You arch you back and wiggle your bottom. "Yes, just for you," you said, sighing as he glides his fingertips across your slit.

"Just for me," he whispers and inserts a finger into your canal. You spread your legs wider, moaning as he slips another finger into you.

"That's right, pet, sing for Papa," he hums, before removing his fingers and removing his belt and unzipping his trousers.

You feel the tip of his cock tease your bottom and then feel him edge into you. As he splits you open, he holds your hips tight and thrusts.

It's not the first time he's fucked you in his office. In fact, you've only been to his house once. He never seems to go home.

"Alfie," you sigh, taking him all in.

"You've got a lovely cunny, dove. Fits my cock so well, doesn't it?" He said, increasing his speed.

"Mhmmm, yes," you coo as he forces your delicate walls apart.

Alfie didn't forget. He slipped a hand around and grasped your throat, squeezing just how you like.

You feel the blood rushing all over your body, pumping in all the right places. Your breathing is lightly hindered and falling in rhythm with Alfie pounding you, you orgasm.

"Fuckin' hell, that's it cum all over my cock. Good girl, clench around it. Fuck!" Alfie was not a quiet man, he shouted this into the room.

It amazed you that no one heard, at least that's what you thought. It didn't matter. All that was important is that you and Alfie were enjoying yourselves.

After your dress was back down, and Alfie's trousers back up, he patted you on the bottom.

"There's a good girl. Back to work, yeah?"

You giggle and gladly return to finish up your work. He'd take you to dinner as always, afterwards.

[enretrogue]

𝗗𝗘𝗖𝗘𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗙𝗜𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗦 (𝟭)

.☘︎ ݁˖ = BLACK/POC WORKS | 23' FIC REC M.LIST

PEAKY BLINDERS

ALFIE SOLOMONS

Destiny — @butterfly-lies-chase-them-away

A Brother For Cyril ⎢ Part Two — @muneca-lemon-steppa

You Love Is Enough — @muneca-lemon-steppa

Evenings At Home — @muneca-lemon-steppa

Good Girl — @ukrainianmotherfucker

Interviews For New Beginnings ⎢ Part 2 ⎢ Part 3 ⎢ Part 4 ⎢ Part 5 ⎢ Part 6 — @muneca-lemon-steppa

Kisses For Bad Days — @muneca-lemon-steppa

Change Of Plans — @muneca-lemon-steppa

Married Life w/ Alfie Solomons HCs — @muneca-lemon-steppa

All Kinds of Trouble — @muneca-lemon-steppa

Overstimulation + Praise Kink — @fandom-puff

Rum and Soap — @dearshleby

Always — @muneca-lemon-steppa

MICHAEL GRAY

Show You How Much I Love You — @roguerogerss

I Can Imagine — @xoxoavenger

THOMAS SHELBY

At the End of the Day — @lis-likes-fics

The Complaint — @look-at-the-soul

Midnight Interlude — @awritesthings1

Gone with the Leaves — @awritesthings1

Numbers — @mrkdvidal1989

Train Left - Moments Passed — @mrkdvidal1989

Ignoble Sins — @cillmequick

Empty Promises — @fallatyourfeet

You Have More To Lose Than You Take — @mrkdvidal1989

Bloodstained Hands — @mrkdvidal1989

Look At Me — @simplyundeniable98

Time After Time Chapter 13 — @all-mirth-no-matter

A Moment of Happiness — @gypsy-girl-08

Christmas Lights — @mrkdvidal1989

First Christmas — @acewritesfics

Eye Fucking Each Other — @mrkdvidal1989

All I Need — @gypsy-girl-08

Promotion — @acewritesfics

No Man Works Alone — @muneca-lemon-steppa

TRIPLE FRONTIER

BENNY MILLER

The Best One — @theewokingdead

Are You On Mute? ⎢ Part Two — @rhoorl

Ask Prompt — @bullet-prooflove

Are You Going To Be Quiet? — @rhoorl

FRANCISCO “FRANKIE” “CATFISH” MORALES

Bluffing Season — @beskarandblasters

Mesmerized — @endlessthxxghts

New Year’s Day — @hellishjoel

My Home Is You — @chronically-ghosted

Stars — @trulybetty

Need You — @endlessthxxghts

Cravings ⎢ Crash ⎢ Insatiable — @pedge-page

Merry Christmas Cariño — @joelsflannel

All I Want For Christmas — @morallyinept

WILL MILLER

When Sleep Comes Easy — @laurfilijames

Just A Little Push — @missdictatorme

Kinktober 2023: Sexual Exhaustion — @gosmigenergy

Clusterfuck — @velicibeewords

All I Want — @laurfilijames

TRIPLE FRONTIER BOYS

Company — @pimosworld

The Story of Us Masterlist — @pimosworld

TSOU AU ⎢ Never Have I Ever ⎢ Down The Rabbit Hole ⎢ Santa’s A Homewrecker — @pimosworld

What Benny Doesn’t Know Masterlist — @backtothefanfiction

THE GRAY MAN

SIERRA SIX/COURT GENTRY

The Nurse Series ⎢ 2 ⎢ 3 ⎢ 4 ⎢ 5 ⎢ 6 ⎢ 7 — @heresthestorymorningglory

The Spy Next Door — @renren-006

Homework Problems — @renren-006

Wide Open Spaces — @elusivewildflower

Hurt You — @j4desblurbs

Bodyguard!Sierra Six — @wiidvw .☘︎ ݁˖

Safe Hands — @hollandstrophyhusband

Bodyguard!Sierra Six — @wiidvw .☘︎ ݁˖

Aftercare w. Sierra Six — @ken-dom

Bodyguard!Sierra Six — @wiidvw .☘︎ ݁˖

DC

BATMOM

See You Soon (+ Jason Todd) — @reveluving

Batmom’s Biggest Fan — @silly-thinkings

The Bat in the Shadows ⎢ Part 2 ⎢ Part 3 — @ynscrazylife

Long Overdue Masterlist — @apocalypse-shuffle

Love Thorns All Over This Rose ⎢ Part Two — @youreobsessedwithtoomanyfandoms

Harmony (+Dick Grayson) — @soriseerakyra

Batprank ⎢ Part Two — @ciaraswritings

Unexpected — @ciaraswritings

Ballet (ft. Cass Cain) — @reveluving

I Want To See My Little Boy (ft. Damian Wayne) — @dragon-chica 

BRUCE WAYNE/BATMAN

Gossip and Galas — @ciaraswritings

DICK GRAYSON/NIGHTWING

The Graysons — @hannibals-favourite-meal

BATSIS

Alleviate The Pain (Platonic!Dick Grayson) — @pugh-pugh-pugh-pugh

[look-at-the-soul]

Flor @justrainandcoffee this was amazing!! I’m so invested already!!

The way Alfie copes with something he knows that will blow everything up is so him 🤭 like here let me wore Rose out for you mate 😂 but either way she’d find out (now I can’t wait to see the interaction between Rose and Alfie after she comes home…

"That's fucking new considering the mutual obsession you have with each other."- Thankfully I wasn’t drinking anything while reading this because 😂😂

Now that’s a protection system Tommy would like to have! The way you mention these women are like wolfs and Tommy is the lamb is terrific!

Alfie is so proud of his Rosie -and Tommy should be terrified of her-.

Deal (Tommy Shelby vs. oc!Solomons) + (Alfie Solomons x fem!oc) Part 1

“You're a lamb entering the territory of a hungry wolf.”

Masterlist

Summary: Why is Thomas Shelby in front of Mrs. Solomons? Just business. Tommy just needs information. But first he needs to deal with Rose Solomons who, unlike her husband, has no sympathy for the man sitting in her office. And yet, they know how to make a deal. "A soul for a soul, Mr. Shelby."

Warnings: Mentions of dead, killing. Allusions to sex. Mentions of physical violence. Misogyny.

Words: 4.5k. || Special thanks to @look-at-the-soul who helped me today 🙃♥️.

1924.

Yesterday

"The bastard is a fookin' ghost!" yelled Arthur.

The Garrison was empty except for those members of the Peaky Blinders, allowed to be there. There was a person that they couldn't find. An Irishman called Nicholas Baker, possible member of the IRA. Last time they saw him, it was he when he shot a blinder and left him to die in the streets. He escaped before Arthur or anyone else could catch him.

Since then, the brothers and the rest of the gang were looking for him no succeed. Not just because he killed a man they know, but also because they were sure he was a spy.

"Maybe he's dead," suggested Isaiah.

"No. He's alive and living in London." This time, Tommy Shelby's voice could be heard all over the place. "And Elias is not the only person he killed. And his real name is Sean Patrick O'Finn."

Tommy dropped a newspaper in front of his brother and Arthur read it out loud.

"His own sister! He fookin' killed his sister!"

"And tried to killed his wife as well, according to the neighbours. She escaped." Tommy sat in his usual place as he lit up a cigarette and poured himself a glass of whiskey. He looked at Arthur and the rest of his men.

"We have nothing, then! He can be in middle of fookin' Russia by now." Arthur was frustrated as usual.

"I don't think so. I think he's still there in London, and as we know, police is useless. London is a big city and they don't care. People are killed every day" Tommy lit another cigarette "but I'm going to find him. And I'm going to put a bullet in his head, too."

"You don't know where to start, Tommy!" Arthur furrowed brow and look at his brother.

"Yes, I do know where to start. I need to talk to his wife."

"But do you know where this woman is, Tom?"

"Yes."

.

The Solomons residence in London was quiet. Rose was working and Alfie just arrived there over an hour ago. He was about to rest his back in bed when their maid announced that he had a call.

"It's Mr. Shelby," the woman said. She saw him do a grimace, but he said nothing to her.

"Thanks, Doris."

Alfie entered his office and closed the door behind before picking up the phone. Every time Tommy called it meant problems, usually for him. But this time what Tommy said, took him by surprise.

"Are ya mad?"

"I just need her this time, Alfie."

"She will kill ya, mate."

"No, she won't. Your wife isn't a killer."

"Maybe. But the women around her are. Honestly, Tom, they're a pack of fuckin' bloody wolves claiming for men flesh. You're a little lamb entering the territory of a hungry wolf. Rosie is the leader of that pack, if she gives the order next time I'll see ya it'll be in your own fuckin' funeral... If I find your body." On the other side of the line, Tommy opened a drawer and picked up some papers and started to take some notes. Sometimes Alfie exaggerated, especially if he was talking about his wife. As far as Tommy knew, Rose Solomons just worked helping women in need and in the streets fighting for equal rights. The few times he saw her in Alfie's place she didn't seem to be a menace to anyone.

"They're just women, eh?"

"My Rosie isn't just a woman, Tommy. She's me wife." Alfie sighed "Rosie will decorate the fuckin' Christmas tree they put on her workplace with your balls."

"I'll take a risk, then. Just wanted to inform you."

"Fine. But I'm not going to tell her yet. I prefer she knows it on her own… good luck then, Tom."

1924.

Today. London.

It's only 7am and the Solomons were making love for the second time in the morning. Rose didn't know what her husband was thinking, or feeling, that he had waking up so passionated but she wasn't complaining either.

"Alfie… I can't… god…" her back arched and her toes curled once last time until she fell on the mattress, completely satisfied. She could feel Alfie finish as well.

The man stayed on top of her few minutes more, catching his breath, before rolling on his back, laying next to her. Alfie opened his arms and invited her to be against his chest.

"Are you fine?" she asked kissing his neck.

"Feelin' like a God now, luv. Why do ya ask? You're talking like we never fuck like this before."

"I ask, because I know that sometimes you use sex to channel your frustrations and I just want to know you're fine."

"I'm perfect, Rosie. Gimme some time and we can repeat it."

She laughed. "No way you still have energy, Al. I can't, I've to work. Tonight, maybe."

In response, Alfie kissed her. That same night, probably she wants to kill him. He had talked to Tommy the day before and she didn't know. Alfie was just trying his best to calm her before the storm. Although spending time with her, it was always beautiful. The kiss continued until she pulled apart slowly. He caressed her cheek. Rose knew that Alfie definitely was hiding something from her, but she didn't know what. After one last brief kiss, she sat down in bed and then walked to the bathroom to take a shower.

Alfie stayed in bed, thinking about his friend going to his wife's place. In all those years, over a decade since it was founded, he visited her school just twice. Once when it was inaugurated, when they met each other again, and the other one after the war. They had an implicit deal: "You don't interfere with my business and I don't interfere with yours" even if they asked each other for some advice, suggestions or help. He was a bit worried about her, even when he knew that Tommy wasn't going to hurt her.

When Rose went out the bathroom, she found him sitting in bed, stretching his back, ready to have breakfast. She approached him and played gently with his hair.

"Thought you're going to join the shower."

Alfie put his hands on her hips and pushed her down on his knees. She was wrapped with a towel and when Alfie kissed her shoulder, he smelled the fresh soap on her skin.

"Ya didn't invited me."

"Since when you need invitation?" she chuckled and put her arms around him. Her hands were stroking the back of his neck. Rose was staring at him, "are you sure you're fine?"

"I am, Rosie."

"Okay," she didn't believe him, but she wasn't going to pressure him either. Instead, she kissed him and he reciprocate immediately. Her towel fell on the floor and she felt him ready to be with her once more.

Never two without three.

.

Arrow house

By the dawn of the next day, every Shelby knew where the leader was going. If they had any opinion about it, they didn't share it. A car was parked outside Arrow House with three men in it.

"I'm going now," announced Tommy. His black coat was over a chair and he took it. "Johnny Dogs and the Smiths are coming with me."

Arthur chuckled. "Johnny Dogs? And the Smith brothers? Ain't too much, Tom? Four men to visit just a bunch of pussies and tits? They're just chicks."

"Not according to Alfie."

"According to fookin' Alfie! The fookin' Alfie! Ya believe him?"

"Yes. Alfie will never allow me to be near his wife, if he didn't know now that she's safe. I know that. And if she's safe that means she's surrounded by an army."

"Are ya planning to kill them?"

"I don't kill women, Arthur. And I don't want problems with Alfie. It's just in case."

"So take me with ya!"

"Arthur, no offense but you don't know how to deal with a Solomons. Stay here and take care of the business, eh? I'll be back at night, probably or tomorrow."

"Tom! Tommy!" the eldest brother yelled but the other man already reached the door.

"Goodbye, Arthur. Tell Pol, that I left her a letter under the flowerpot."

.

Pebblebrock was Rose Solomons' former manor and prison hell at the same time. Now it was a beautiful school for girls and at the same time it served as a roof for some women who had run from their abusive homes.

As the owner, she was the one in charge even when she had several women in which she trusted working with her side by side. But the final decision on everything was always hers.

Alfie, and Tommy too, were right. The place and Rose, were surrounded by women specifically trained to kill. It wasn't uncommon for men to try to reach those who they already hurt. The rules were crystal clear MEN ARE NOT ALLOWED IN PEBBLEBROCK. The ones who didn't understand the warning were now resting eternally in a cemetery.

Men were only allowed if they were doctors or priests. The institution had nurses and two nuns who volunteered to help there. But sometimes a doctor was required, same with priests. Any other men should call for an appointment, only under that circumstances their entrance were allowed.

.

"Look at this fucking place."

From the road, Tommy, Johnny Dogs and the Smith brothers were watching the entire property. The gardens extended beyond their sight.

"Full of pussies, it's my fucking paradise. An all-you-can-eat-fucking restaurant" commented Gregory Smith. Except Tommy, the rest of them laughed.

.

Rose heard the crows. That was never a good signal.

"Now who?" she thought for herself. A lot of names crossed her mind, but none of them was the right answer.

Five minutes later a knock on her office's door brought the answer.

"Who?" she asked not believing her ears.

"Mr. Thomas Shelby, Mrs. Solomons" repeated the woman in front of her. "He says he needs you."

"The Thomas Shelby?"

But unaware of who he was the other woman didn't respond.

"Yeah, well. Tell him I'm coming."

"There are three other men with him, Mrs. Solomons."

Of course.

The day was beautiful. Cloudless sky and almost no wind. It'd be perfect if not for Tommy Shelby in her property.

"Didn't you read the sign?" she said greeting them "men are not allowed here."

"Good morning, Mrs. Solomons," said Tommy with deep voice.

"It is, Tommy. It is."

It always was intrigued him that a man like Alfie could be so devoted to a woman who barely reached his shoulders. His Rosie. Alfie Solomons could start a war against the king and the Pope if something happened to that woman.

Gregory Smith had another idea.

"We don't follow rules, sweetheart. We're the peaky fucking blinders."

"The Peaky who?" Rose looked at the man "Who the fuck are you?"

"The audacity of this bitch. It's a Solomons, eh?"

"Gregory…" warned Tommy.

"Yeah. I'm a Solomons. Proud of it. But I'm quite dumb, Gregory. So I need your help, I only know how to count to two. Like, one, two… what's next?"

"Three."

BANG.

A woman stading behind Rose was holding a gun.

The bullet impacted his head. The man was already dead when his body collapsed on the ground. Rose just looked her pocket watch and then clicked her tongue.

"Men are not allowed here," she repeated. "You understand the warnings now or you what to be the next?"

Tommy looked at the dead body.  The blonde woman behind Rose was staring at him and Tommy knew that she wasn't joking. One more step and it couldn't be any difference between a Gruyère cheese and him.

Tommy sent Johnny Dogs and the remaining man again to the car. He also gave his gun to his friend.

"Ya sure, Tom?"

"Just go, Johnny."

When Tommy turned around again, he saw the woman extending her arm, she moved her hand "gimme the fucking cap."

Again, Tommy did what she said. She gestured him to follow her.

The interior of her office was elegantly decorated. An expensive rug on the floor matched the wallpaper and the mahogany desk. Lots of books were perfectly ordered on the bookshelves. Rose Solomons invited him to take seat on one of her velvety armchairs. Tommy followed her with his eyes. Now his cap was over the head of a marble bust representing Aphrodite, just behind her, looking at him. The woman sat behind her desk and put her hands under her chin.

"We have a beautiful garden here. A greenhouse full of exotic flowers and plants. Was your man married? I'd like to send the widow some flowers."

"He wasn't."

"Better, then."

Her brown eyes never leave his blue ones and same as Alfie, he felt she was trying to anticipate his movements. But Tommy didn't express any emotion.

"So? What the hell is doing Thomas Michael Shelby here? My husband isn't here."

"Not looking for Alfie."

"That's fucking new considering the mutual obsession you have with each other."

Tommy curved his lips, barely smiling. "I'm here purely for business, Mrs. Solomons."

"I'm not the kind of person you do business with."

"You are."

Both of them remained in silence for several seconds. Probably she was unaware of it, but Tommy noticed some mannerisms in her that he had witnessed in Alfie before. She was thinking while playing with her fingers. Impossible to say who copied who.

"What kind of business? Illegality has no place here," she finally said.

"I need to know where a certain man is."

Before she could say something Tommy saw the door opening and a beautiful woman in her mid-forties, entered Mrs. Solomons' office. She greeted him with a movement of her head and then started to talk to Rose in French but she stopped her almost immediately.

"This isn't going to work now, Geraldine. The man knows french," she said pointing to him "same as Alfie he fought in France during years. Tell Edith to come. She speaks Hebrew."

Geraldine nodded before leaving again.

"You do that often? Speaking other language in front of strangers?" Tommy settled in the armchair.

"Don't you do the same? I'm sure that speaking Romani is very useful if you want to express something to a friend or relative but you don't want the other to know what are you saying. Don't judge me, Mr. Shelby."

Edith, Tommy asummed it was her, was barely in her 20s, probably she was still a teen. Young and with a cheerful face, the girl approached Mrs. Solomons and both of them started to talk in Hebrew, a language he couldn't understand. For a moment, Rose looked at him sideways.

"Thanks, Edith" she said and the girl left without looking at Tommy. "One of your men tried to sneak in my school. Or they're fucking dumbs or they're really ready to visit God."

"Fucking hell…" Tommy rolled his eyes before breathing deeply. He was sure it wasn't Johnny Dogs but the other Smith. "Listen, Mrs. Solomons, I didn't give the order. I didn't know."

"I know, he acted by his own. Good news is he's alive. Bad news is my girls are taking care of him. It depends on you what I'm going to do with him. Alfie knew you were coming, didn't he?"

"I called him yesterday."

Rose sighed "Yes, of course he knew. Of course he fucking knew," his actions that morning now it made sense to her. Not because it wasn't unsual for them to have sex in the morning, but because there was something in his eyes that his mouth wasn't saying. And after all those years together, Rose knew him very well. "Anyway… what do you want do with your man, Mr. Shelby?"

"Can I smoke?"

"If you go next to the window and put your hand with the cigarette out, I don't have any problem. But I don't want smoke here."

She saw how he stood up and walked towards the window. That one in particular faced one of the gardens where the rosebushes were. In spring and summer, the sweet smell of roses invaded her office and it was something that she really liked.

When that morning Arthur asked him why he took three men with him just to visiting a school and women's residence, Tommy  was exploring his chances. Better Gregory Smith than him. He trusted Johnny Dogs, he was a loyal, obedient man. But the Smiths…

"Kill him if you want," Tommy finally said "if my man can't follow my orders, then he should face the consequences. This is your place after all, Mrs. Solomons."

"Edith told me he was screaming that he wanted to avenge his brother."

"Yes. The one you kill it was his brother." Tommy glanced at her. A ghost of a smile was on his face.

"I never killed anyone, Mr. Shelby."

"You don't need to hold a gun and shoot to be a murderer. Most of the murderers just give the order behind their desks."

"Well, he'd be alive if he hadn't been an asshole. It's all about the rules, Mr. Shelby. The sign is there for a reason and if you ask me, you don't seem very concerned about your man's death."

"Rules, eh? Something tells me you're not very fond to follow them, either, Mrs. Solomons. How was the prison?" Tommy blew another puff of smoke out the window, but kept looking at her.

"Pretty cold. Full of cooties and rats. I named one in your honour, that's a tradition that we the Solomons have. Name a goat, name a rat… How's Arfah, by the way? Alfie misses him."

"Thanks for the honour, Mrs. Solomons. Arthur wanted to come. I told him he doesn't know how to deal with a Solomons."

"Oh," she grinned. "And you do?"

"I'm pretty confident about it. It worked in the past."

"I have no doubts about it. But I'm not my husband, Mr. Shelby. I don't fall for a pair of blue eyes and a chiseled face and most of all, I don't trust men."

Tommy threw the remaining of his cigarette in a basket that was there and walked again to the seat in front of her. He crossed his legs and rested his hands over his stomach.

"Do you want to fuck me, Mrs. Solomons?"

"Yes. Just bring me a bottle of cyanide to accompany the moment. And then I want to hug a black mamba. Your place or mine?"

Tommy chuckled. "Wherever you prefer, sweetheart."

Far away from being intimidated by the confidence he was exuding, Rose just scratched her chin.

"Alfie accepted? I mean, if this is the way you deal with a Solomons..."

"Never asked."

"Oh, you should have. The answer maybe could suprise you. But, let me tell you something, Tommy. Can I call you Tommy?" he nodded. Rose left her armchair and approached the man. He followed her with his eyes. Her face was now in front of his, their noses were touching. Both pair of eyes were staring at each other. Tommy felt her breath on his skin "I know who you are, Tommy. Reputation precedes you. I know how you do business with women. But here's the thing: I'm not them. And yes, I'm a Solomons, yes Alfie and I we have lot of similarities. But I'm not Alfie. I'm not interesting in you as a man and if your cock is the only thing you have to offer me, you're wasting your time here… sweetheart." Rose inhaled deeply "God! I never killed anyone, but I swear the devil keep tempting me. How about having your head as a trophy hunting hanging on this office? But…" Rose moved her head back again "as I said, I'm not a murderer."

"Alfie is a lucky man, Mrs. Solomons," Tommy said once she returned to her seat behind the desk.

"Is he?" She tilted her head.

"Believe me." Tommy straighted on his armchair "and I'm sure If something happens to him, I'm sure you're going to heard the devil that keeps telling you to kill someone."

"Be sure of that. If anything happens to my Alfie, the only one who can stop me is Alfie himself. I hope nothing happens to him, EVER. You know about it, don't you?. Your late wife, we knew what happened. I can't imagine the pain."

"No, you can't imagine. But I'm getting over it." Tommy cleared his throat "Mrs. Solomons, I need information."

"In exchange of…"

"Mutual respect."

Rose snorted. "Yes, sure. Alfie could be delighted when I tell him. Information means business, Mr. Shelby. And whiskey is for business, innit?"

She opened a cabinet in her desk and put a bottle of whiskey with the Solomons logo on it. Behind her, were two glasses that she grabbed. A rose was engraved on them.

"I didn't know you drink," he said.

"Only in very few occasions. I prefer just tea for the rest of the day. So? You tell me."

Tommy drank a sip of whiskey before talking again. In his mind the image of Elias dead on the streets of Small Heath appeared again. Contrary to Gregory Smith, Elias was a good man. Her widow was pregnant and a payroll wasn't enough for the woman to compensate her for her husband's death. Yet, it was the only thing that Tommy could do.

"I'm looking for Mrs. Baker."

"There are several, Tommy. It's a very common name. Any details?

"It's an Irishwoman. I don't know her appearance but her husband killed her sister-in-law. It means his own sister."

"Sonia," mumbled her, "but the last name isn't Baker. It's O'Finn. Although she said that prefers her own surname. I'm going to keep that information to me until you tell me what the hell is going on."

From the murdered committed in Birmingham to the one in London's underground. Tommy told her about his suspicions that O'Finn was a member of the IRA and how he, Tommy, was now a target of them. Again.

"If that's true," she replied "then no matter what, your head already had a price and it's not going to be me the one hanging it on my office, but them. Nowadays it's very easy to send a message to the other side of the map. A telegram or a phone call… I don't understand why do you want to talk to this woman if he already communicated with his people."

"Because I don't think he did that. He's hiding. He's a fucking rat."

"Ok. Well, there's a lot of problems first. Mrs. O'Finn, she's not in conditions to talk. Even if she can, you're not allowed to be near her and this is not negotiable. These women are under my wing. Not you, not fucking Churchill can be near them. I don't give a fuck if you bring an order from the fucking president of I-don't-know-where. Understood? I have women specialized in talk to women with the kind of trauma that Sonia has, so, think about twice before suggesting another way to do this."

"The less people know about it, the better, Rose."

She pointed to the door, silently. Tommy sighed. "Fine. But I prefer that you can be present. And me too. Or at least I want to hear everything by myself."

"Agree. We have a place we can use. I need to tell you, or better say, reminder you that Sonia is highly traumatized. Yes, she's alive but the price she paid…" Rose stood up again but this time she walked to one of her bookshelves and picked up a carpet, although to do it she had to climb a ladder. "Tommy, I don't have this rule of "men aren't allowed" just because I'm fucking misandristic bitch, I'm not. I believe in equal rights. I fight for equality. I have that sign because people here, women, kids… are afraid of your kind. I have a register for every single woman that lived here since 1911 when I inaugurated this place. Open the folder."

Tommy obeyed and his first reaction was exactly what Rose hoped to get "Shit…"

The first page was the document of a woman who lived there in 1914 before volunteering as nurse in France, Rose never saw her again. Her name was Rita Brown, 20 years old. She escaped from her house because her father was an abuser. He ended up cutting her face marking a cross on her.

"I don't allow men, because we don't know what kind of bastard will cross that gate. Your man, that Gregory, he's not the first. Dozens before him, I'm genuinely surprised that if you talked to Alfie yesterday he didn't mention my women."

"He did."

"So you knew."

Tommy nodded and Rose studying his face laughed . Suddenly she understood. "You bring this bastard on purpose! You fucking did! You wanted him dead. Fucking hell, Tommy. I heard things a lot of things about you and I'm still impressed. The brother, too? You wanted me to rid off the other guy, too?"

"Why not?"

"Fine. I don't give a shit. One less." She returned to her seat and rang a bell. The same young girl called Edith appeared. Both of them talked in Hebrew again and Edith went out again once they finished. "We have an agreement, it seems. Now my payment."

Tommy opened his coat and placed two payrolls on her desk.

"I appreciate the effort," she said no looking at the money. "But I'm not interested it in cash, although if you don't want it. I can use it to buy something for the school like a new piano for the girls and some violins. A donation."

"I don't want it," he confirmed "then what's your price, Mrs. Solomons?"

"A soul for a soul, Mr. Shelby. I want a man dead."

"Who?"

"Churchill's right hand man."

Next part.

...so? 👀

[boogiewrites]

Mae Flowers Chapter 5

Characters: Alfie Solomons x Mae LeBlanc (OFC)

Summary: A modern, magical Alfie Solomons AU.

Warnings/Tags: Language.Magic/Supernatural. Soul mates.Some domestic fluff, getting to know you stage. Talk of the unknown. 

Click on my screenname then go to Mobile Masterlist in my bio for my other works and chapters. (Had to do this since Tumblr killed links, sorry.)

When she woke to a warm spring morning, Mae was thankful she didn’t have puffy eyes or a headache from crying the night before. She’d sobbed hard, sadness surging from an uncontrolled well of emotion that had always been within her. She was a sensitive soul she’d been told before, both in the form of compliments and insults. Being sad that people weren’t nice to her when she always went into interactions with a good heart wasn’t something new to bring her down. But she’d had something to make the roller coaster of let down shoot back up suddenly and she was caught off guard. A nice man to be kind and take care of her after the rest of the world seemed to be against her all day. It was too much for her still fragile heart to handle and despite being less sad, but mostly confused and uncertain, she cried again. She hated crying in front of others, she quickly became overwhelmed with thoughts of being less than and looking down on her for not controlling herself.

But she hadn’t felt that last night. No, she felt seen and heard. She had someone to look her in the eyes and tell her her feelings were valid, that crying was healthy and being able to feel so deeply was a gift and not a burden. Perhaps that’s why she hadn’t woken up feeling an emotional hangover like she had every other time she’d cried. Things were already proving Alfie right with how they would work better together than apart. Luckily, she had just woken up and therefore didn’t have the capacity to think about that at the moment. Right now all she was really focused on was having to pee.

Alfie sees her scuttle the short distance between her room and the bathroom in her slippers and pajamas. Little shorts and a tank, all her softness wobbling with a sleepy shuffle of her small feet. He grinned, a small huff of amusement for the little fluffy goblin scuttling around her own house.  He hears the click of the bathroom door as it opens and calls out to her, “Breakfasts almost ready. Ya in?” his neck stretches in her direction, head tilted to hear her muffled reply in the affirmative.

She entered the kitchen, hand disappearing into her bed head curls to mindlessly scratch as she yawned. “Smells good.” she approves, a sniff and a heavy-footed saunter over to the round kitchen table.

“Fanks.” he mutters, multitasking with pans and spatula. “‘Mornin’ luv. Ya slept well I take it? Didn’t a hear a peep all night.” He could’ve said my dreams were as smooth and clear as a moonless night’s reflection atop a lake. A sure sign that she wasn’t bothered in her sleep.

“Yeah.” she nods, her hair bouncing as she did so. She fusses with her hair, pushing it back as he approaches the table. “Oddly enough.”

“Odd will become commonplace soon enough.” a nod and a self-assured tone she hoped to emulate moves out of a barrel chest in his plain white t-shirt. She recalled the shirt from the first time she’d seen him in her dreams. What an odd fact, she muses to herself. Perhaps he was right. “That’s some immense hair ya got there.” he smiles down at her with an affectionate inkling in his eye and tone.

“Thanks?” she gives him a quirked brow as she tilts her head up at him, peeking out from under her mop of half-formed spirals.

“Was a compliment.” he clarifies as she nods and becomes quickly distracted by the food being slid in front of her. “Full English.” he declares, his shoulders hunched as he turns to retrieve his own overflowing plate. A perk of being immortal was he could eat almost anything and everything and not give a second thought to it. He now had an excuse to make the rich comfort foods he missed. He found himself not neglecting but finding comfort in the things of old that made him, him. He had run from the messier human emotions for a long while. He ran from the things that made him human in the first place as well. That entailed disappearing and not emerging until everyone he knew was long dead. It included religion, sex, and human comforts. He was his darkness for long years, but this little sunspot was bringing him back to his old self. The things that made him Alfie before things took a turn for the worse and he became what he was now. She made him feel human again. Among other things.

“Tomatoes?” she asks, her head tilted like the curious Percy’s that just jumped onto the table to sniff at the mushrooms dissapprovingly.

“Breakfast, innit?” he says, a fork in hand and a sausage already on the way into his mouth.

“And beans?” she keeps the same confused expression.

“It’s what we ate when money was good when I’s growin’ up. Comfort food, that.” he points with a greasy fork across the sun-streaked table from the light coming through the patio doors.

“Full English.” she mutters as if it were still a question to her. “S’good.” she shrugs and pushes things around on the plate.

“Got tea, English as all bloody hell.” he chuckles and points to the kettle. “Coffee, bangers, beans, bacon, beefeaters from the garden and mushrooms. Ya made me some of your soul food, ya comfort food. This is mine.”

“Food is… weird.” the sleep starting to fade fro her voice but clearly her mind wasn’t matching up to what her mouth wanted to say.

He snorts with a mouthful of food as she chews thoughtfully. “You gonna elaborate on that ingenious remark?”

She gives him a smile, knowing there was no ill will in his jab but agreeing that she certainly would have fleshed out what she meant more. “Everyone’s gotta have it, but it’s different everywhere ya go. It’s the backbone of any culture, somethin’ anyone could know about y’know? But somehow it’s also deeply personal despite it bein’ somethin’ that everyone has.” she pauses and takes another bite. “It’s weird.” she shrugs despite that being her final statement.

“Humans are weird would be a more overlapping remark. But it goes without sayin’. Humans can make anything personal. A rock, a meal, a string of words. Very self-absorbed, very self-important. But it’s in their nature. Means of survival ‘n that.”

“Their nature? You aren’t human?”

“I was. At one time. I’m more of a vessel if you will. I am me, yeah? I hold everything that made Alfie Solomons a man, a human. But I am also timeless energy that is simultaneously full to the brim and empty all at once. Knowledge from the very beginning of time, and past the present. I’ve lived in the underworld and on this side as well.”

“That’s… sorta heavy for breakfast, man.” she states blankly before they both move into a shared laugh.

“You asked. I am here to answer.”

“Thanks for answering,” she says sheepishly. “Do I also contain all that? Time and space and the whole Carl Sagan monologue?”

He gives her one of those smiles that makes her avert her eyes. The kind that handsome men have beautiful ladies when they courted them. She wasn’t equipped to deal with his charm and ruggedly handsome face this early in the morning. Or ever, for that matter. “Yeah, love ya do. Which is why we’ll be starting with some meditation today. Help you get in touch with all that. It’ll help every facet of ya complicated self. Gotta learn restraint and control before we move onto the more… intense activities.”

“Am not gonna have to like..sacrifice anyone am I?”

He lets out a sudden laugh. “Nah, love nothin’ of the sort. Not unless ya want to.”

“I don’t.” is a quick and curt answer given. Of course, she didn’t. A little ray of sunshine made of life itself wouldn’t want to get messy. That was more his side of things.

“Noted.” he gives a firm nod and a supportive closed mouth smile before they both become absorbed by the task of fueling up for their work.

-------

He had asked her where she would feel most comfortable, and to no surprise to him, telepathic of not, she had said in her garden. With a reassuring hand on her back, he leads her to the middle of a grassy patch in the center of the back yard. Her land was totally enclosed with a high fence and the outlines covered in different flowers and bushes and fruit-bearing trees, buzzing with insects already so soon into spring. A warm sun beamed down, making her brown skin shine, freckles happy to soak up the rays and darken across her cheeks, the yellow light hitting her eyes and lighting them up golden with her lush mixture of green spun delicately around her tight iris. Her curls shone, the sun-kissed streaks happy to lighten with their long missed sunbaths every day from being stuck inside during the cold months. They were bouncing happily, air dried as she perched with crossed legs on the soft grass.

“This is a lovely garden, by the way, pet. You’ve done a bang-up job on your own.” he grunts out as she adjusts his legs to mirror her.

“Thank you. I’m very proud of it.” a soft but accepting smile graces her round and darling face as she squints in the sun.

“Ya should be.” he nods and clears his throat. “Have ya ever meditated before?”

“Not really no.” she shook her head. “I’ve lit incense and practiced some deep breathing before. But not like... Ommm and…” she pushes her middle fingers and thumbs together, resting them on her knees to explain.

He suppresses a smile at her wordless explanation of her length of knowledge on the subject. “I see.” he moves to take her hands. “Ya have a hard time quietenin’ down that mind of yours don’t ya?”

She nods, a hint of being ashamed in her eyes as she casts them downward.

“Now, now. No judgment here. This is Day 1, Step 1. Any progress is good progress. No progress is still practice, yeah? I’ll be gentle on ya don’t worry. Not here to upset ya.”

She presses her lips together and nods and takes a deep breath to steady herself.

“Now. First, we’re gonna close our eyes, yeah?” He leads her through being in the present. Taking in the moment. Acknowledging every sound and feeling, the blades of grass tickling her bare legs, the buzz of bee’s and the warmth of the sun, a kiss of wind that rustled her hair. She could sense it all, that was fine, but now she had to let it all go. “Work to clear your mind. No worries. No curiosities and philosophical musings. Just be. If a thought comes, say ‘ello, and let ‘im be on ‘is way.”

She smiles at his playful lit in explaining and she finds comfort now with his touch, hands clasped together between them.

“We’re going to have a moment, now. Try to work on that for a bit. I’m here if ya need me.”

“‘Kay.” is her soft reply as she tries to clear her mind. The garden fades away, but her thoughts still clumsily barge in. Worries about the future, the past, is she doing it right, was he sure he had the right girl? She tries to push it away and struggles.

“Ya need help, luv?” he offers with a gentle rub of his thumb against her hand.

“Yes, please.” she asks in an almost whisper of a voice.

“No shame in asking me for help, right? So make it sound like ya aren’t ashamed. I’ll ask ya again. Do you need help, luv?”

“Yes.” she states clearly, louder and a nod to back it up.

“That’s a girl. I’m gonna use my energy to calm ya down. Don’t be afraid of it. You'll feel it.”

She takes a shaky breath. “Okay. I’m not. Thank you.”

“Good girl.” he acknowledges her attempts at being self-assured and squeezes her hands. He didn’t have to, but he thought a physical cue might help her out at these early stages.

She does feel it, and it feels amazing. A shiver up her spine, his power like cool water in her veins as she exhaled in a sigh, feeling her shoulders lose their tension. Is what relaxed felt like? She didn’t know her.  “Oh, wow.” she exhales.

“Good?” he asks, concern in his voice.

“S’good.” she gives a dazed smile that he doesn’t see. A grunt in response is all she receives.

There’s an easy silence between them. She doesn’t know how long it goes on, but she felt like a popsicle left out in the sun, a puddle on the grass, a fat happy frog soaking up the sun for energy without a care. A thought floats by, and she decides to share it. “Am I...looking for something?” she asks.

“If ya like. It’s a bit advanced but we certainly can. You can ask a question, ask for guidance, clarity, divination. Whatever ya like.” he explains.

“I’d like to try.” her voice quiet but due to the relaxed state she was in and not from fear any longer.

“Go on, then.” he reassures her.

“Do I have to share it with the class?” the honesty in her voice makes him let out a laugh, a quiet one as not to startle her but her endearing and effortless charm was taking him by surprise.

“Nah, luv.” he chuckles out and gives her hand a delicate brush with his thumb again to show support.

What do I even ask? She wondered. I’d like to know… anything at this point. Okay, focus. I wanna know who he is. Who… we are if we’re these… soul mates. I just wanna know what it all means. Hmmph, not asking for much there are you. She sighs out of frustration and focuses up again.

He feels her drifting and pull back and smiles. She’s learning fast.

I want to know who this man is. Who is this Alfie Solomons? Do I trust him? Is he who he says he is? What is it that I feel when he’s near, this vibrating energy inside that feels like I’m on the verge of something, good or bad I don’t know. I just want to know...anything really….please? She would be the only one who could give puppy dog eyes to the universe and have it bend to her will.

After a short while, a not awkward silence, he feels something. A tingling in his fingers first, then moving up his arms. Were they falling asleep? It wouldn’t make much sense he wonders but he soon realizes it’s coming from her. It grows warmer as if he’d sunk into a hot bath. He ran cold, like a reptile, cold-blooded before her, and feeling warm blood in his veins was something he hadn’t felt in over a hundred years. A wiggle of his heart in his chest, a warm slinking feeling up his neck and into his mind. It was far stronger than anything he expected. But he would soon find out, she was a lot stronger already than he anticipated. Her coy nature and shyness a mere cover for the intensity that lies beneath. She had been protecting everyone else with her reservations, not protecting herself.

Her intention ran through him, she wanted to know him, and her power sought him out. The universe said, if you want him, have him, I only made him for you after all, and lets her creep into his mind. It all came in flashes, waves on a shore that faded in and out, too fast to grasp it all at once.

She smelled alcohol. Something sweet and deep, she could hear machines, men yelling, heavy footsteps up old wooden stairs. There were strongly scented leather books, piles of paperwork and a feeling of unease. Another wash of nostalgia washes over her, she sees a dog, happy and excited. She sees an empty bed sat in a dark room filled with books and papers, the walls covered in so many different things, both common and rare that she couldn’t make them all out. She smells the strong scent of cleaning chemicals, a woman by a sink, working hard and a feeling a longing overtaking her. There’s a hat over the doorway, a beacon for something important, a cane by a bed, bottles that looked like medicine on a nightstand. She saw blood in the sink, a sinking in the pit of her stomach.

“Mae.” she hears him echo in her head. He wasn’t speaking aloud. “Stop it. You don’t want to go there. -I- don’t want you to go there. You won’t find what you want here. Go back.”

Her eyes fluttered behind their lids, her hands grasping his, his underlying anger showing itself for her uninvited intrusion.

A hiss that wasn’t Alfie snaps up and shuts her out. It speaks a language she does not know, but it doesn’t frighten her, although she wonders for a moment if it should. His darkness. She knew it immediately. She’s endlessly fascinated. A black smoke, formless and endless whirling, moving through muck and earth as she pursued it with hungry curiosity. -Come see. Your answers.- a distinctly masculine but not human voice says, the smoke twists into a long cylindrical shape, it forms and shifts, an awe-inspiring black iridescence comes to shape. She sees a snake, endless, it could fit in her mind but was larger than the planet somehow. She knew he, his darkness, was the snake. A fitting symbol of rebirth and transformation, immortality and renewal, as death and destruction were all forms of creation in the end. It was as if she were being gifted with sight for the first time. She could see him, and know what his essence stood for.

Sunlight shone on it and the most beautiful colors came off its scales. She realized she was the source of the light. It twists up and directs her eyes to a moon. It’s blue, purple and green, all pastel and colored like the snake. They were one, they were the night and the darkness and everything that called it home. The dirt, the death it holds, both old and new, the beasts that only emerged to worship the moon and live in the dark were its children. Every cold-blooded animal, every reptile and insect knew it and didn’t fear it. So it came for her to understand, neither should she.

She sees her sun take form, moving towards the moon. She felt no fight between them. It was as if they wanted to be close, but had long been separated by the sides of the earth. Something that existed, but didn’t, that faded in and out unnoticed until it was already upon you. They radiated blindingly bright together, and the behemoth snake reveled in it. She felt a strange pull, a split from herself as a rabbit came into view. The snake circled itself, mouth to tail as it writhed, an ouroboros as the white rabbit neared. The rabbit was her, she realized. She was seeing her light, the mate for his darkness. A rabbit she pondered, watching he fearless bound about in the sunlight, warm thick fur and a wet twitching nose, full of life and energy. Her light was life, fertility, and growth, creation and desire. A vulnerability, a softness unparalleled was what she contained. She suddenly understood it. Understood what it meant to be her, to be him, and thus, understood why they had been destined to find each other.

The rabbit and snake entwine, the sun and moon fusing, something that should’ve seemed unholy or apocalyptic seemed to make perfect sense to her. It all came together, just like everything did, from the first creation to the last, she’d always been there, and so had he. She, life, sending him, death, her gifts that he loved so much he kept them forever. A blinding light went dark and she was no longer separate from herself as she gasped and went eyed, flung back into the present, in her human body, hands tight around Alfie’s forearms, nails digging in and sweat pouring from her.

He blinked at her, the most curious expression on his face as she caught her breath. “You understand now, don’t you?” It was more of a rhetorical question at this point. “You’re more powerful than even I knew, Mae.” he pauses again, waiting for her to process it all.

“Yeah… I am.” she says with the first absolutely certain tone she might’ve ever had in her life.

“You’ll only grow more so from here. You’ve surpassed my expectations already.” he pats her shoulder and they meet eyes, as if for the first time. He sees her with a question and not fear in her eyes. She had found the answers she was looking for. At least she had enough knowledge now to grasp the situation. “This is only the beginning, luv.”

I tried to reverse search the image and came up empty handed so if you know whose it is, I’l gladly credit them. 

@jaegeeeeer​  @brianaisasongbird​ @hardygal69​ @emerald-bijou​ @captstefanbrandt​ @coolgh0st​ @tinastarkandco​ @xstylishmileage​   @s-h-e-w-r-i-t-e-s​ @peakys-mystic​ 

[anadelaney79]

Whenever he wants

Summary: Alfie comes back home. I know that's a pretty bad summary.

Pairing: Alfie Solomons x Reader

Words: 1200

Warnings: 18+. Some blood, oral sex (male receiving), sex.

Title: Whenever he wants

You hear his footsteps down the hallway and you can tell for sure what's his current mood. That is how well you know him. And you are never wrong.

You sink a little deeper into the bathtub, letting the hot water covers you completely, and keep quiet, listening carefully to his heavy steps down the wooden floor. He is probably tired, you think. He's been out all day; when you wake up at sunrise, he was already gone, the bed empty and cold around you. But there is something more.

You hear him as he stops and opens the bedroom door, although he doesn't go in. He retraces his remaining steps to the bathroom, where you're engulfed in a cloud of soft steam and the sweet jasmine scent of the soap.

You squirm in anticipation. What Alfie provokes in you is indescribable. It is, at the same time, a padlocked box and an open book that you can read as if you knew it by heart. You know he adores you, even when he is so distant sometimes, or even when he comes home and doesn't talk for hours. You know that he is deep in his thoughts, but the slightest gesture lets you know that you are still there, deep inside him.

The door opens and his eyes narrows as he sees you. The warm light from the candles that illuminate the bathroom dances on his face, and his stern expression softens a little, almost imperceptibly.

He lets out a moan and rests his hat on a furniture next to him.

-Hello Alfie -your voice is low, almost like a whisper.

He looks at you, taking his time for his eyes to wander all over your body, sunken under the water. He doesn't say a word. He takes off his coat and waistcoat slowly, sets them aside, and pulls up a chair, sitting down.

-Do you want me to...? -you start to say getting up, but he stops you.

-Shhh... -he cross his index over his plump lips- Stay there.

You lie back in the bathtub and rub the soap on your arms. Alfie closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, a mixture of pleasure and relaxation, as if trying to slowly let his troubles drift away from him.

-Rub it over your breasts -he says, his eyes still closed.

You obey. You want to please him, to make him happy.

Your hands slide down your throat to your chest, and stop at your nipples. Alfie open his eyes, both dark pearls under his heavy eyebrows. His nostrils flare, capturing the scented air into their lungs. There is that fire on his look, a fire you know well.

Your nipples perk under the gentle touch of your soapy fingers, your back arches and you start to feel those well known flames in your core. And it's not because of your hands caressing yourself, but because his eyes over your body.

He grunts and adjust himself on the chair, his legs wide open.

-Come here -you say, but he growls as an answer.

-You look so fucking perfect there, sweethart -he strokes his beard, his eyes sparkling- Don't wanna ruin that.

You look at him, adjusting your eyes to low light . His face is splattered with blood, and there is a deep cut on his right hand.

-You're hurt... -you let the words out in a breath.

-It's nothing -he runs his other hand through his beard

You get out of the tub and wrap yourself in a blue silk robe. You grab a clean towel and wet it in the sink next to him, take some bandages from a drawer, and kneel in front of him, who hasn't stopped looking at you. You take his hand in yours and begin to gently clean the wound. He sighs, letting his warm breath fall on your head.

-It's deep -you tell him after cleaning the wound- Is there any more?

He shakes his head in denial and you wrap his hand in the bandage in silence. It hurts you to see him like this, but you say nothing. It hurts you more than hurts him, you can tell for sure. And he knows.

Alfie puts his hand under your chin and forces you to look at him. His eyes search yours, green over brown, deep, talking with no words.

You start to clean the blood on his face in silence, as you think how much you love him, how deep you love him. You always have. And even when you knew Alfie came with all of this baggage, you couldn't help to fall deeply in love anyway.

When you finish your fingers run slowly over the soft fabric of his bloodstained shirt, opening the buttons one by one. His chest is one of your favorite places in the world, and you caress it gently. He rests his hand on yours, and guides it down to his belt. You open it and he spread his legs wider, giving you more space between them. Your hand reaches for his erect manhood.

He takes a deep breath and his hands clench into fists as your mouth wraps around his cock. You want him, all of him, and start sucking softly but yet firmly, moistening it with your tongue.

-Fuck it -he says, and his palms rest on the sides of your head, leading the rhythm little by little.

You take him in as much as you can, from the tip to almost making you gag. The pleasure is his as much as yours.

His hands cup your cheeks and you stand in front of him, opening the ribbon that closes your robe. His fingers dig into the flesh of your waist, guiding your legs to his sides.

You sit on him, guiding his cock inside you, and you let out a deep breath as he slides inside with his eyes locked on yours, searching for clues to guide him on his next steps. You wrap your hands around his neck and he licks your nipples hard, alternating with his teeth, tugging at the sensitive skin, making you gasp.

-Alfie... -you say as you move up and down, slowly speeding up.

He says nothing at all, but he puts his arms around you so tight that you can only move your hips. His head rests on your chest, and you know he can hear your heart beating inside. You hug his head, running your fingertips through his messy hair.

The friction on your clit gets you closer every second to your liberation. Pleasure swirls in your center and it doesn't take long before you feel yourself pulsing on him.

-Come for me -are the only words that he says almost in a inaudible growl with his head still on your chest, and that is all it takes to finally release your orgasm.

Your head spins and it takes you a few seconds to come back to yourself. You take his face in your hands and lift it up to look into his eyes. Your lips caress his, and he opens his mouth to let your tongue invade his mouth. Alfie begins to move again, this time is harder, seeking his own orgasm, until you feel how it tenses under you, releasing completely inside you.

He rests his forehead on your chest, breathing hard, agitated.

-You don't fucking deserve this -he says.

-This? What do you...

-Waiting for me every night, not knowing if I'll even come back -he interrupts you- Cleaning up the blood from other people on my body. I don't fucking deserve you.

-Alfie, look at me -he slowly rises his head first, then his eyes searches for yours, bright and clear- I will always love you.

-Don't ever leave me -he whispers against your lips, as they open and seek for your tongue with his, lazily tangling again, his cock still deep inside you, hardening again.

[padfootdaredmetoo]

Part 5. Heart Break of the Century

The family starts to realize that the reader and Noah make a good match. Tommy and the reader begin to realize she has PTSD and start to notice how that impacts her relationships.

Thanks to everyone who wrote in about this series! I really hope that you guys enjoy! <3

Previous parts

Warnings: Mentions of sexual assault/abuse, panic attacks, and anxiety about that experience. Nothing is actually described with detail, PTSD, general peaky chaos

Tommy was acutely aware that his daughter had some emotional problems. She didnt run, she wouldn't fight, she would crumple. Exposing something so broken it made his head swim with anger. He wanted to take the coward’s way out and tell Lizzie to speak to her about it. However, not even he knew the extent of how many awful things had happened to Lizzie, he knew it wasn't a topic she handled well. Having her stressed made him extremely anxious about the baby. 

He lay there in bed, thankful beyond belief that you agreed to sleep in their room. That you got into bed with them, that you hadn't changed your view on the two of them. He would need to speak with John and Arthur about how they go about things. 

The look that crossed your face flashed through his mind once more and flinched. 

“Dad” She whispered and startled him slightly. 

“Wot” He whispered back. 

“I don’t hate you for what you and Lizzie went through.” 

“That’s - good.” He said unsure of how to respond. 

“I - I love you both.” She stuttered and his heart broke a little more if possible. 

He sighed. “I love you too.” 

“I’m sorry I collapsed on the floor the other day.” 

“What happened to-” 

“Just a lot of beatings. I don’t exactly hold back what I’m thinking, doesn't make for the best student or daughter.” 

“Just beatings?” He said trying to remain calm, his fingers balled into fists at his side. 

“One particular priest, he – ah” Her voice was thick and he waited to see what she wanted to say. He wouldn't push her, he would make sure no one ever pushed her for anything ever again. “He used to run his hands on me - while punishing me. Could have been a lot worse. He was, as Polly would say, touched by demons.” 

Tommy lay there biting the inside of his cheek. He wasn't a good man, he didnt have words of comfort for her. He felt her move next to him. Her arms wrapped around his right arm and she pressed her face into his shoulder. 

“It doesn't bother me, I just get overwhelmed when men sort of get really angry.” 

“I’m sorry I scared you.” 

“Don’t- I know it’s only because you love me.” 

“Still, don't let men yell at you like that. Not even me.” The thought of Noah bossing her around, shouting at her was enough to make him light a cigarette. It’s a great example he had been setting for her. She was already confused and now- 

“I won’t.” 

He felt her relax and eventually listened to the both of them breathing softly. He relaxed accepting the fact that his mind would not allow him to rest tonight. 

______________________________

Waking up you were relieved to feel both parents still in place beside you. Opening your eyes you found yourself still pressed against Tommy's arm, and you could feel Lizzie’s hand in your hair. 

“Morning” You whispered knowing that Tommy was awake. 

“Morning.” He whispered back. 

“If it's allowed can I go get dressed and see if Noah’s up?” 

“Fine.” He said getting up and stretching. You moved out of the room and quickly got washed and dressed in your room. You fussed over what to wear but decided that a pair of trousers and a long-sleeved top with a wool jumper would be best. Better to be practical when the enemy was afoot. You dashed to the kitchen to make some tea. 

You knocked on his door and heard a muffled grumble on the other side. You slowly pushed the door open while holding two mugs of hot tea. 

“Morning” You whispered before your voice got caught in your throat. He was a crumpled masterpiece. He was sprawled across the bed, sheets a mess. He was topless, and you felt your face get hot. “Oh, I have tea.” 

He quickly got up and grabbed the shirt hanging on the bedpost. He pulled in on and then ran a hand through his hair. His cheeks were pink and suddenly you forgot how to breathe. 

You handed him the mug and sat on the end of the bed realizing you probably should have waited for him to come downstairs. 

“How did you sleep? Was everything comfortable?” You resorted to being a good host for lack of better things to say. 

“Oh erm - ya, it was great.” He said taking a sip of tea. You both caught each other's eye and laughed. 

“Sorry for waking you.” You mumbled into the rim of your mug. 

“Not a bad way to wake up, really.” His eyes were so warm and inviting. “So what are we up to today.” 

“I’m not sure, thought maybe we could go for a walk outside. Play in the snow.” Once you said it you realized how childish it was. 

“They have some important meeting on today so being outside sounds nice.” 

You both drank your tea and Noha put his arm around you. You leaned into his side and watched as more snow fell outside his window. 

__________________

The morning was chaotic and you were grateful you had a half hour of quiet up in Noah’s room before Esme found you. You had to help with breakfast, and then everyone ate together before going in different directions. 

John and Arthur were given a task in the kitchen making calls, Esme and Polly were helping Lizzie while she rested. The kids were to play downstairs for the day, and Tommy and Alfie would be in his office making more calls and strategizing. 

You and Noah weren't given any instruction. You both sat quietly as everyone left the dining room. 

“Guess they forgot us then,” Noah whispered and it was nice not to be the center of attention for once. 

The rest of the morning passed you by sitting with Noah in front of the fireplace in your room. You both chatted and played cards, pretended to be mad when you caught the other cheating. 

Eventually, you got your walk, observing the groups surrounding the house. You were looking at the various fires and wondering if everyone was warm enough when something hard hit your shoulder. Snow flicked up and landed on your cheeks making you jump. 

You whirled around and Noah threw another one at you. This, much like the card games, became a brutal competition. You were both hurling snow at each other at a vicious pace. You could feel the adults looking at the both of you probably judging you but you didnt let it distract you. 

You wanted this boy to surrender. 

A bunch of shouting caused you to turn your head. A snowball caught your cheek and you brushed off the painful sting, eyes still focused on the commotion breaking out at one of the camps. 

“Are you-” 

You didnt let him finish what he was going to say, you ran towards the camp with a feeling of panic rising through you. What if the Changrettas were here? Running towards it wasn’t smart. 

Noah’s arms caught you preventing you from getting any closer. You stopped and he mouthed to be quiet, you gave a nod and he let you go. 

You both moved closer to the camp to see what the commotion was about. Various slurs and swears were being exchanged between the men. No real threat. Just a squabble between the Solomons and Shelbys. 

Relief flooded you and you walked up to the men at the center of it. You heard Noah swear before rushing to your side. 

“What’s the problem?” You looked to Johnny Dogs because you knew him the best. He answered in Romani, which seemed a bit rude but soon Noah was speaking to his men in Hebrew. 

You listened carefully, wanting to make sure you could come up with a reasonable solution. 

______________________________________________

“Tommy - the men are fighting. Think she’s got it under control but it’s not really her place.” Finn was hanging out of the door to his study and the anger was quickly replaced with anxiety. 

Why the fuck were you outside? That was the one thing he told- ah, he didn’t actually remember giving you your tasks for the day at breakfast. Fuck. He apologized and ended the phone call he was having. He and Alfie moved out of the study. 

“She’s a real trouble maker you know that - Noah never sticks his nose where he’s not supposed to. Then she comes around and suddenly he’s always-” 

“Fuck off Alfie.” But they both shut up when they saw the two of them negotiating with each other. Negotiating on behalf of their people, if it was anyone else Tommy would have had to beat the living daylights out of them for overstepping. 

“Now, on our end, we would like to formally apologize for any words of disrespect spoken about anyone's mother.” You spoke clearly. 

“Accepted,” Noah said nodding. 

“Anything else to clear up?” 

“Nah,” Johnny Dogs said with a shrug. 

“Well, in the future, if you insult each other make it more entertaining.” You quipped causing both sides to laugh. “No one likes being cooped up here, try to make the best of it.” Your voice was still light but it had an edge of warning everyone seemed to take seriously. 

Eyes started to land on him and Alfie and they all hummed loudly in agreement. When you looked up at him your mask seemed to falter slightly. You knew it wasn’t your place to do such things, but he knew that you were just trying to be helpful. 

He didnt have to tell you to go inside, you could tell what the look meant. You trudged through the snow back up to the house. 

“Any problems here?” Alfie boomed his voice bouncing off of the snow. 

“No.” then men mumbled or shook their heads. 

“Good.” He responded before walking back up to the house with Noah. 

Tommy stood outside for a long moment. Letting the adrenaline wear off. As much as he hated the boy, the two of them worked well together. If this was anyone else's daughter in the family, he would have gotten them married. Strengthened the alliance a lot more than shipping passageways to New York. 

He shook the idea out of his head. You were 17, and he didnt want you to get married - ever. 

___________________________________________

“Not a bad tactic down there. Very clever” Alfie gave you a pat on the back and your whole shoulder shook from the force of it. You were sat next to him at the dinner table tonight. 

“Erm - Thanks.” 

“Surprisingly the two of you make a pretty decent team,” He said quietly. 

“Oh, yeah I think so.” You said with a blush on your cheeks. Having someone's approval made you happy. 

The next few days everyone kept themselves in check. No drama or nonsense. Tommy had placed you and Noah on kid duty. Meaning there were at least five little kids between the two of you at any given movement. You were happy that Noah didnt seem to mind. He enjoyed spending time with the little ones. 

You felt the tension deep in your stomach, you never got a moment alone with him. Tommy, despite being overworked and overwhelmed seemed to always have something for you to do. Then before you knew it the day had flashed by and you were back in bed with your parents. You missed your room, but you knew that both of them were at their limits.

Lizzie was in bed all day now, she moved around the room and took baths, but didnt join the family for meals. No one could figure out what was wrong with her, just kept insisting she needed to rest. 

While getting ready for bed you noticed a white shirt on folded on the edge of your bed. It was a soft cotton shirt of Noah's. You breathed in his scent and hated how your body felt alive and pained at the same time. You changed into a pair of bottoms and wore his shirt hoping no one would notice. You went into your parent's room and settled in under the heavy blankets.  Lizzie smiled at you with a knowing look in her eye.

You felt both far away from her having been busy all day, yet closer to her as you slept next to her. 

“What’s causing these wrinklers hm?” She said running a thumb between your brow. 

“Do you like Noah?” You asked. She studied your features with a type of sadness you didn't understand. 

“I haven't had a chance to see much of him. Polly adores him, Esme says it will either work out or be the heartbreak of the century. She read his tea leaves though.” You let out a groan of embarrassment. “Says things look promising.” 

“Great.” You whispered feeling her thumb trying to sooth over the wrinkles on your brow again. 

“That’s the risk everyone has to take.” She said softly. 

“I really like him.” You sighed. “I don’t want the heartbreak of the century."

“No one does, but maybe that’s not a part of your story.” She shrugged. You nodded feeling your eyes getting heavy. She continued to run her thumb across your forehead.  

“Will you be alright?” You mumbled.

“Yes, I think most of this is just stress.” You nodded and quietly agreed before falling asleep. 

________________

The tension only got worse as more snow piled onto Arrow house. Anxiety as your father negotiated trade deals and other nefarious things to ensure allies against the Changretta family. The stress of knowing that any of the men he makes a deal with could sell him out.

The radio says the rain was only a few days away, and a sadness filled you at the thought of Noah leaving. You loved having him and Alfie around. 

Things really came to a head when you both were forgotten again. You sneaked up to your bedroom and played cards by the fire. This time it was harder to notice the way his hands brushed yours. How warm his skin was, how his features shone in the firelight. 

He was losing the round and decided to switch tactics by grabbing your face and kissing you. This kiss was as heated as the one at the top of the ferris wheel. Your body hummed with life and a burning sensation that suffocated you. His hands were in your hair and you wanted to drown in him. 

When his hand slipped lower to your throat you nearly jumped out of your skin. The feeling washed over you leaving you stiff as a board. Memories came in and wrapped around your mind like a vice. 

It was inescapable and you moved your body with just enough urgency to just make it to the toilet. You puked hating the way your head was spinning. Noah was there apologizing looking frightened. His hands fluttered around you but you could tell he didnt want to touch you. 

Embarrassment hit you and it was almost as bad as the initial panic. 

“I’m sorry I just.” 

“It’s alright. Can I” He motioned towards you with his hands and you gave him a nod. He flushed the toilet and sat down close to you. 

“I’m sorry-” You started.

“It’s alright, I’m nervous too. I haven't done any of this before.” So he was a virgin. Your mind flashed back to Nancy Wellington in math class going off about how he’d banged a lot of older girls.

“Nancy Wellington told me you’d gotten the clap from a uni girl.” You were desperate for a distraction and blurted it out without thinking. Noah let out a laugh that calmed you down slightly. 

“That’s because I turned her down, she wanted me to take her to the spring dance.” He ran his hand up and down your spine. 

“What happened to you? Is it something I did or-” He deserved an answer as the boy looked tortured over the situation. 

“Well, as you know I came from an orphanage. And I used to get a lot of beatings.” You looked back into the toilet and took a shuttering breath. 

“People used to hit you?” His voice was riddled with anger. 

“My dad also used to hit me a lot.” You added weakly avoiding the next part of the story.

“That’s - just come home with me then. Dad loves you, he won’t care. You can take Lizzie with us if she’s also getting -” His face set into a hard mask, his voice was cold and demanding. 

“No! Not Tommy, my biological father.” 

“You sure?" His eyes narrowed in on you and thankfully you didnt get the usual bout of anxiety. 

“Positive. He looks grumpy, but he’s not with me - he’s never.” You whispered. 

“Right, so the orphanage. How bad was it?” He challenged you keeping your eyes there. Telling him about this made you afraid but his reaction so far had done nothing more than make you fall for him even harder. 

“He just used to choke me -run his hands all over me.” His eyes didn’t move from yours. He didn’t change his expression. He shouldered it like it was business- like he was in the trenches with you. “Still a virgin and everything.” 

“Not what I’m worried about,” Noah said dismissively, his brown eyes still boring into yours. 

“What are you worried about.” You said breathlessly considering throwing up again. You broke your staring contest to look back at the toilet. Your stomach was cramped up into knots. 

“That you're alright, how to help you. What you need. That type of stuff.” Noah ran his hand down your back again. His hands slowly came up avoiding your neck and pulled your hair up. 

“Thanks.” You said weakly. 

He was so comforting that tears formed in your eyes. He made a soothing sound. 

“You're just so nice to me - all the time.” He let out a little chuckle then the door opened further. Your dad’s eyes narrowed in on the situation. He left the room quickly and the panic washed up over you again. You puked again and Noah helped keep you upright. Then Esme was there fussing over the both of you. 

“Was it something you ate, love?” She untied a ribbon from her wrist and tied your hair up. 

“Noah.” Tommy pointed out of the room. You could tell by the boy’s body language this was going to be a fight. “Need to talk to you out here for a moment.” Tommy added quickly.  Noah looked at you and you nodded hoping that it wouldnt be a mess. The anxiety from the situaton only made your stomach roll again. 

Noah moved out of the bathroom and you felt Esme press a cold cloth to your forehead.

______________________

Already have the first bit written for the next part. Let me know what you guys think <3 Thanks again for all the love.

Tags: @sorrygojo @dreamy-caramel @pet1t3

[fanaticalfantasist]

I’ll Marry that Girl (Alfie Solomons x Reader)

Masterlist

It wasn't often that Alfie Solomons was left speechless by someone, he always had an answer waiting to use. After all he was the Alfie Solomons, the king of Camden town. The big bad gangster who would look a gun in the face and just smirk.

But what had just happened had lift him with nothing to say and a slightly uncomfortable tightness in his trousers.

He'd been in yet another meeting with Thomas Shelby, discussing something dull. Frankly he'd stopped paying attention when Tommy began mentioning stock prices and shipping costs. He just wanted to know who the girl was. Tommy had entered with two of his brothers and a young woman, she had the same blue eyes as Tommy but frankly she looked to dainty to be here.

"Sorry mate, right, this is all fucking hypothetical right? And frankly I don't give a rats ass if what you do unless it directly involves me. So let's make this easier..." Alfie had begun one of his monologues when a laugh interuppted him.

Tommy turned and glared at the girl.

"What's the matter love? Got something to say?" Alfie asked sitting back in his seat and opening his arms wider, offering her a chance.

"I do actually" she began.

"(Y/N) we agreed you'd stay quiet if I let you come" Tommmy snapped at the woman but she merely glared right back, not even flintching.

"I just think this whole thing is frankly stupid. Tommy wants to buy rum from you at a lower price so he can sell it to the Americans at a higher one and you split the profits. But that means you'd also have to still pay a lot in bribes, port fees, shipping costs all that bull shit. When if would be far easier to sell it to the Americans here at a higher cost, not have to worry about shipping costs or anything and then make them ship it. If they refuse you just jack the price up." (Y/N) explained looking at the men. Silence followed what she said.

"Sounds good to me" Alfie said shaking her extended hand. With that the meeting was over, Alfie stood with Tommy at the door watched her leave.

"I'm gonna marry her" Alfie mused out loud.

"Good luck with that, my sister isn't one to be wooed" Tommy smirked before following.

"Still gonna Marry her" Alfie yelled after him.

[potter-solomons]

Alfie fanfic: I think I've read it all. Currently in the middle of a few bring updated still.

I need some good longer ones. Slow burn or quick. I like smut but it doesn't have to contain it. It's just a plus.

I've gone through most of the tag on AO3. I've been rereading those on there and on here.

[twistedrunes]

Simple Pleasures | Alfie Solomons x m!reader (🍋)

anonymous asked: Hey! Back again, as promised, with Alfie Solomons requests because I cannot get enough of your writing. For Alfie Solomons X male!reader, could I please request: "I'm sorry, you want me to what?" "Be my fake boyfriend" + "Get closer, I want to remember the colour of your eyes" Thank you 😊. 🐍anon

summary: asking Alfie to be your fake boyfriend goes about just as well as you could hope for.

tws: anal sex, anal fingering, spit as lube, swearing, praise kink, Sir kink, Captain kink, teasing

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

support your fanfic writers by reblogging what you read & enjoy

"Hang on," Alfie scoffed. "I'm sorry, you want me to what?"

"Be my fake boyfriend," you sighed. "Look, I wouldn't ask if I wasn't desperate. Trust me."

He quirked a brow, leaning over his desk as he linked his fingers together and pursed his lips for a moment. "And I was your first choice?"

You nodded, lighting a cigarette as you sighed and grumbled. "Obviously. We're mates, ain't we, Captain?"

Slowly, he nodded. "Yeah, we're mates, Corporal."

"So?"

"I'll do it," Alfie agreed, pushing his chair back and smiling a little. "But c'mere."

You did as he said, standing before him before he gently pulled you onto his lap, his hands on your ass and making you swallow thickly; it took everything in you not to buck your hips against him as you allowed your hands to rest on his chest. "Alf?"

"I'm just thinkin'," he hummed. "If we're meant to be together… wouldn't it be better if we have a bit of a fuck?"

You wanted to say no, only for fear that he would realise how you really felt about him, but the offer was too tempting, so you nodded, a shaky breath leaving your lips. "It'd make it more believable, right?"

"That's what I was thinkin'," Alfie agreed. "How'd you want me to start?"

"Kiss me," you breathed out, and when he closed the distance, his hands went to your thighs, pulling you closer as you gripped his shirt tightly.

Fuck.

You couldn't help it, when the kiss deepened, rolling your hips against his as he eagerly swallowed the whimper leaving the back of your throat. He pulled away, grinning as he licked his lips.

"Get your kit off, Corporal."

You were too eager, scrambling off of his lap and stripping yourself as quickly as you could, tripping over your own feet and nearly ripping your shirt; your clothes strewn about in the room before you stood there, waiting and all too eager.

Your cock was starting to get hard, and although you really wanted to, you just about managed to hold back the urge to touch yourself.

Alfie nodded in approval. "Fuck. Ain't you a fuckin' sight?"

"Sir, please," you breathed out. "Fuck…"

"Bend over the desk," he ordered, barking and ordering you around just like he did during the war. You immediately obeyed, biting back a grin when he gently smacked your ass.

"Shit, Sir, I could use a good training session right about now."

Alfie chuckled. "Am I alright to touch you, Corporal?"

"Yes!" You howled out, nodding. "Please!"

"Good boy," he praised, standing behind you and gently tracing your body from the back of your neck down to the top of your thigh. "Am I alright to start with my fingers?"

You nodded eagerly. "Yes, Sir!"

Alfie bit at the inside of his lip, slipping one finger into your ass and humming under his breath at how fucking tight you were; gently, he pumped the digit and curled it slightly to hit all the right spots, making you hiss and growl under your breath as you pushed back against him and begged him for more. He slipped a second finger in, and when you were ready, a third.

He could feel his cock against his trousers, and almost couldn't wait as he palmed himself through the thick material. He had to be sure that you were ready, using his three fingers to stretch and ready your tight ass for him.

"Sir," you grumbled. "Fuck me already, please."

"What was that, Corporal?" Alfie demanded as he used his free hand to clumsily unbuckle his belt and pop the top button of his trousers. "C'mon, now, speak clearly."

"Fuck me, Sir!" You barked out. "Please! Let me take your cock, Sir!"

"Good boy," Alfie praised, letting his trousers and underwear drop before he spat on his hand and used it to lubricate his cock a little as he stroked it. "I'm gonna spit in your ass, is that alright?"

"Yes, Sir!"

Alfie chuckled to himself as he bent over slightly, letting his spit hit its mark before he worked it into you with his fingers; only when he was sure that you were ready did he take his fingers out before he slowly sank his cock into you.

"Fuck, you're so tight, Corporal…"

You pushed back against him, trying already to fuck yourself on his cock. Too eager. You bit your lip. "C'mon, Sir, please. Fuck me!"

He wanted to grin, grabbing your shoulder as he started to gently thrust and buck his hips. "This alright, Corporal?"

"Harder, Sir!" You begged. "Please! Harder!"

Alfie wasn't one to say no, picking up the pace and the roughness of his movements, fucking you against the desk until it started to squeak; he grinned when you reached out to grab the edge of it, the sound of slapping skin filling the room along with guttural and almost feral noises.

But Alfie had to be careful; if he wasn't, he could have let it slip that he had hoped that it wasn't a pretend boyfriend that you were looking for.

That he had hoped you had come into his office to ask him to really be with you. He had to be careful, but he couldn't help it as he gently pulled you up, his hand on your jaw as he forced you to look at him from the side.

"Get closer, I want to remember the colour of your eyes," he growled, open mouthed and wishing that he could kiss you again. "Fuck. You feel so fuckin' good, Corporal."

You nodded, wishing and wanting to admit that, more than anything, you didn't want him to be your fake boyfriend; you wanted the real deal, and when he let you go again, letting you fall back over the desk, you were grateful.

You were sure that if you had stayed so close with him, you would have let it slip; but when his cock grazed against your sweet spot, you couldn't help it as you grinned.

"Fuck! I love you!"

Alfie paused for a split second, but then shook his head and planted one hand on your shoulder, the other on your neck as he went as hard and fast as he could; the sounds of your moans and pleased cries were music to his ears as he lost himself completely.

He would have given anything to be the man who made you feel like that every day, he really would have.

But he knew he wouldn't. He wanted to tell you that he loved you, too, he wanted to tell you that he wished he could have fucked you at home, in his own bed; that he wished you were every bit as much his as he was yours.

It was a lot more than just sex, a piss poor excuse to be close, to feel one another.

He groaned softly, a quiet rumble from the back of his throat as he tried to keep up the pace and tried to give you everything that he thought you wanted; he had no idea.

He didn't know that you only wanted the same things he did. Just as he had no idea that you were doing your best not to allow the line to become too blurred and to tell him that you loved him again.

That the sun would only burn while he was around.

You wished he would have given you sign, shown you that his lights were on for you; but then he delivered a particularly hard thrust, and you forgot all about it as you fucked yourself on his cock.

Alfie would have gone across the world for you, he wouldn't have needed a reason, just for you to ask. He would have done anything for you, if you only asked him to. You were his home.

"Fuck, Corporal," Alfie laughed breathlessly. "Why the fuck didn't we do this when we were stranded in Verdun?"

You tried to speak between the gasps and moans. "You… you never… oh, fuck! You never… fucking asked. Fuck, right there!"

"I didn't know you'd fuckin' feel so good," he admitted with a heavy breath. "Didn't know you'd be so fuckin' good for me."

"Always… always good for you… Captain Solomons," you breathed out, drool slipping from your mouth and onto the desk.

Fuck. If there was anything Alfie loved best in the world, it was hearing you call him Captain. Sir.

Fuck, it drove him wild. He wasn't going to last long if you were going to keep doing it; he bit at the inside of his lip, but it didn't work, and his thrusts were going sloppy and somehow too fast but too slow.

He planted his hands either side of you, grunting as his cock twitched before he allowed himself to let loose.

Calling your name as he did so.

But he couldn't stop, fucking his cum into your ass like he was determined to claim you as his own; you kept fucking yourself on his cock, but you soon raised your head, crying out as you came, letting it spurt onto the floor.

You stayed there, panting heavily as you tried to regain your composure. All too aware that Alfie's cum was still inside your ass.

He pulled out, stopping for a second to admire his handiwork. "Oh, fuck, Corporal. Look at you… fuckin' magnificent."

"Alfie," you breathed out, voice hoarse as you swallowed thickly and made no effort to move. "Is it too late to withdraw my… my request?"

"What'd you mean?"

"I don't want you to be my fake boyfriend," you panted out. "I… oh, fuck, I'm gonna regret this… can you be the real thing?"

You didn't see the way he grinned. "For you, Corporal? I'll be anythin' you fuckin' want me to be."

[wandawiccan60]

Part 18: The Witch of Camden Town

Alfie Solomon's X Jovonka(FemOC)

A/N: Hello everyone and I am once again back with another new chapter that's right it's part 18 of my Alfie story. I somewhat had a hard time again in were to end this chapter ending but I am happy to announce that it was an accomplishment but a very devastating one for the most part. I really hope in the end it makes you guys feel a bit of some hope and want to see what will happen next. And yes I got very excited to include another character that I am proud to finally introduce to this series. As always guys thank you for reading and growing with me on this journey. Please as always comment, like, and reblog, it'll mean a lot for the page and I appreciate you all for the much love you have sent. And as always everyone please Enjoy!!!. I'll catch you guys again in the next post. See Ya!!!

ALFIE SOLMON'S MASTERLIST

Word Count: 4,374

WARNING 18+ ONLY!!!: Graphic Blood, Death of a Character(or maybe not???), Torture, and Some Cussing

TAGS: @i-love-th-characters1, @hecatemoon87, @jarvisrocks, @kittycatcait219, @evita-shelby, @theshelbyclan, @theshelbyclan, @potter-solomons, @ao3feed-symbrock, @annisse, @zablife, @tomhardyspinkyfinger, @edwardthomashardy1, @star017, @thealmightybitchgoddess, @mollybegger-blog, @ninja-potato-shelby-solomons, @professor-alfie-solomons, @solomons-finest-rum, @tea-atfive, @rikki-b-lake, @symbean, @veddieiscanon, @97freaknik, @jollysoulfestivalfreak, @weirdgirl16355, @twvstedsouls, @omgeternal, @bubblyani, @buttercup32sstuff, @raincoffeeandfandoms, @queencoraline3, @queenofthefaceless, @quarterpastmidnight, @thefics-that-drip, @lovebitesimagines, @alfiesolomons-treacle,

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Camden Town

 “You were goin’ to hurt and rape her, Sabini. I did what I had to do. All because you were being a fuckin’ stupid drunk who likes to hurt innocent girls,” Alfie said, giving a serious glare back at his “friend” which Sabini found the insult unacceptable.

“Hehe, you know what I find more hilarious Solomon’s,” the Italian said, still pointing his gun, wanting to blow his face, but he held back. “All this time that we have been talking. I sent a few of my men to go catch a familiar little runaway that you know of. Don’t you worry, though I told my men to keep her clean and unharmed. How about you say hello to her right now, yea?”

“What are you talkin’ about Sabini,” Alfie said, fearing the worst was yet to come.

The Italian gangster didn’t answer him as he snapped his fingers toward Bob, making his way out of the office. A moment later, Bob came back. Alfie’s heart dropped on the floor once he saw the love of his life. Along with Isabel, Edna, and one other woman he didn’t recognize coming inside his brown-lit office. 

“Alfie,” Jovonka said in a frightened voice as the man behind her holding onto her arms, setting her on her knees. 

“You fuckin’ bastard! Let her go!” yelled out Alfie as he tried to reach for Sabini, but two henchmen restrained him down on his chair, as he breathed heavily through his nostrils.

“No! Now you will sit the fuck down like a good boy and watch as your sweet witch bitch gets what she deserves,” Sabini yelled back, still pointing his pistol in Alfie’s direction.

The scum Italian then stood on his feet, facing away from his fellow mate, looking at the girls in front of him.

“Before we get any further, you ladies must wonder how I knew you were in, Margate. Well, as a matter of speaking, I had a little help from someone you might know of. 

Jovonka looked away, trying to not make eye contact with the man, and instead looked at Alfie. Her eyes showed him how scared she is feeling and thinking that things could get terrible. The Italian gangster knelt in front of her face. Jovonka only ignored him as best as she could. 

“It’s vulgar of you to not look me in the eye, my dear. Especially now that I know you were the little shit who cast that spell on me. Just so you can protect your savior who put me in the fucking hospital for weeks, even months,” Sabini’s voice erupted, making her and the rest of the girls jump in fright.

Jovonka finally locked eyes with her captor. She has grown to hate and fear. Giving him a serious death stare, wishing she could just end his life on the spot.

“It hurt, didn’t it? To be useless for quite some time all because of your own drunkness and pathetic attempt to have your way with me,” said Jovonka in a confident reply, a small smile appeared in the corner of her mouth.

Sabini’s face turned into annoyance and anger as, in a swift gesture, slapped Jovonka across the face with the back of his left hand. Both Alfie and Isabel reacted to this as they both wanted to strangle and murder Sabini for laying a hand on her. 

“You’re goin’ to fuckin’ pay for that, you piece of shit I swear to fuckin’ God!” Alfie threateningly yelled out, trying his best to struggle out of the two men restraining him back. 

Jovonka let out a small groan under her breath as a faint red mark showed up on the side of her face. Sabini wrapped a hard hand around her neck, letting out a gasp for air. 

“You think that was funny, eh? Well, you won’t be smiling after what I will do to you next now, will ya? Victor, my boy, would you be so kind as to hold her face down for me?” Sabini said, gesturing a finger for the man to come forward.

“No, No! Leave her alone you fuckin’ bastard! Do it to me and not her!” Alfie yelled out to the Italian mobster, ignoring his proposal as Victor now held her face out, exposing her right cheek.

Isabel looked on with horror as she tried her best to get out of the henchman’s restraints. But it was no use. Sabini then took out a sharp blade from behind his belt glistening under the semi-lit office. Ready to plunge the sharp object into the girl that got away.

“You cold-hearted wretch, punish me, not my sister,” said Isabel, giving a death stare at Sabini and making an ugly smile at her. 

“You two are pathetic to want to take this thing right here, yea, in your fucking places, then her. But you’re all forgetting that every one of you had a part in all of this. So everyone should shut the hell up and stay quiet yea?!” Said Sabini pointing the blade towards the older sister and seeing a small tear streaming on the side of her right eye as he continued his speech “And you all must be wondering who knew you were in Margate. Well, then I had to take him by force if you all could recall a certain restaurant where he used to work. However, I had to encourage him to give in and tell me what I needed. But don’t fear, he is quite fine. Henry let him in.”

Once he called out to his henchman, the door of Alfie’s office opened, revealing young Novel all bruised. Jovonka’s and Isabel’s eyes grew in shock seeing the young boy alive but heavily damaged from his face. 

“Novel… tell me this is not true?” Isabel questioned him. The young boy only lowered his head, feeling ashamed for putting everyone he loved and cared about in this whole situation.

“Isabel… for-forgive me I… I had no other choice,” said Novel with tears in his eyes as he looked up at Isabel and towards Jovonka. 

“Ah ah boy, you’re not telling the entire truth. Young Novel here agreed to tell me about you two. Just so he could get rid of Alfie and win back the heart of the Dancing Witch and have her as his own. That’s how easily we came to you two. Isn’t that so, my dear boy?” Sabini said, placing a hand on his right shoulder, enjoying this whole encounter. 

Jovonka couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Seeing her best friend whom she loved and cared about would do such a thing. Just because she fell in love with Alfie and not with him, it still wasn’t right for him to give away their hideout. 

“How could you Novel have you’ve never thought about for a moment how much Alfie has done for us? Just because I didn’t give you my heart, it didn’t mean I never stop thinking about you. But you went ahead and everything away,” Jovonka said, infuriating her tears forming in her eyes, not believing how Novel would betray her, Isabel, Elena, and Alfie. 

Novel only stood there with no other words to say, directing his gaze to Alfie, both of them giving each other death stares. Sabini found this entire ordeal enjoyable, seeing everyone going at each other’s throats. 

“Now then, where was I before you came in? Oh, that’s right, you little rat,” said the Italian leader, pointing the sharp object in her direction. "You will not forget this little reminder of when you fuck around with someone like me.”

“Wait, Sabini, you said you were going to let us all go fre-.”

“SHUT YOUR FUCKING MOUTH! You thought I would let you all go away that easily? Well, you are wrong now do me a favor and shut your damn mouth,” said Sabini pointing a sharp finger at the young boy while nodding his head towards Henry and another henchman of his to restrain the boy down on a wooden chair. 

“NO! You fucking devil you promised!” the boy yelled, but Sabini just ignored him as he looked back at Jovonka, already eager to give her the punishment she deserved.

He then grabbed Jovonka by the neck. Victor held out her left cheek for Sabini to see. Alfie struggled once more, wanting to jump across from his desk to murder Sabini, but the two men had him in place. She felt the tip of the blade against her skin. She trembled like a leaf, expecting the worst was yet to come.

“Let’s get this pretty little face a new look, eh?” Said Sabini with an evil grin on his face until suddenly everything went by slowly and painfully.

Puncturing the blade against her skin, Sabini slowly cut deep and slow across her cheek. A few drops of red blood oozed out slowly as he continued on. From behind him, he heard Alfie hissing out “No” in anger and cursing out at the Italian mobster. Jovonka tried her hardest to not let out any whimpers, but it was no use. She screamed in pain, feeling the sharp cut of the blade puncturing deep against her skin. Novel’s anger grew uncontrollably, wanting to end the monster’s life, but it was no use. Isabel and Edna looked on helplessly seeing the young girl getting cut so brutally. 

“You think it’s funny now, huh? You little fucking shit,” Sabini said as he went along, cutting her other cheek without stopping for a second.

“YOU FUCKIN’ WOP! You're goin’ to fuckin’ die for this, you hear me!?” Alfie threateningly yelled at his now used to “old friend” struggling to shove away from Darby’s henchmen but they still put him down.

Screaming more in pain, Jovonka felt the now bloody blade puncturing deeper into her other cheek, feeling her thick tears streaming down her eyes, wanting this nightmare to be over. Sabini felt satisfied with his work, leaning back and seeing the once beautiful face of the dancing witch now covered in her own blood. Alfie looked on with hot, raging flames in his eyes. Seeing the love of his life being tortured in front of him. He felt his tears streaming down his cheeks as Jovonka cried her eyes out. 

“Anyone else want to have a new fresh face just like hers? Hmm?,” he asked cold-heartedly, looking around the room and waiting, but nobody said anything, “that’s what I thought. Now you, my dearest friend, I have saved the best for last for you. Bring him forward, gentlemen.”

The men did what they were told, bringing forward Alfie by his arms. He then sat on his knees against the hard wooden floor beneath him. He focused his attention on Jovonka, seeing her sobbing, her face covered by her hands. Sabini blocked his view from her, looking up at the man he was now close to wanting to choke to him to death. 

“How does it feel Solomon’s? To feel weak and vulnerable beneath my feet, hmm? I never thought that my most loyal and close friend would protect such people, especially your little bitch you fell in love with. Pathetic is what I think,” said Sabini shaking his head in disappointment, both men giving staring death stares as he continued on, “what did you even see in her? To get this far in hiding and protecting her away at your not-so-secret hideout anymore. Thinking I wouldn’t get my memories back for a long time, well, you have been wrong, my friend.” 

Alfie glaringly looked up at Sabini with fury in his eyes, saying nothing. From behind, Jovonka slowly sat up on her knees, seeing both hands now covered in her own blood. She reached in front of her dress, slowly taking out the small knife Alfie gave to her. Without a moment to lose, she stabbed Sabini’s left arm, letting out a loud groan. Before she could stab him another time, Victor harshly grabbed her by her hair, making her tumble down hard on the floor. Alfie reacted quickly, giving Sabini a hard punch to the face, but was held back by his arms once more. The Italian wailed in pain, seeing he had now a wounded arm and a bleeding nose. 

“YOU BLOODY FUCKERS!” He shrieked out placing a hand on top of his arm trying to hold some pressure on it.

Jovonka smirked at this as Alfie caught sight of her, which he also found amusing, feeling proud of his beloved.

That’s me feisty rebellious girl…

One of Sabini’s men helped their boss remove his coat from him, trying to be careful as much as they could. Once it was off the spot where Jovonka stabbed Darby was visible to see. 

“Not so sharp looking now, eh, Sabini?” Said Alfie between a chuckle. Jovonka gave off a small smile for what she did to the Italian devil.

Darby groans out in pain, deathly staring at Alfie and then toward the witch dancer. Having a mischievous smirk on her face finding the whole situation funny. He inhaled a sharp breath of air Henry then came to his aid gently applying a white bandage around Sabini’s arm. He shrugged him off completely away as he straightened himself, trying to look his best. 

“So this all seems like a joke to you both, eh? But all of you won’t have the last laugh once you’ll witness what will happen to you Solomon’s. And it will be quite the show. Novel, come forward,” said Sabini, gesturing his hand towards the young boy being released from the henchman. 

Novel slowly walked forward, his head hunched down, looking at the wooden ground. Until he was beside the Italian, awaiting what was yet to come. Jovonka’s face became uneasy while watching her friend standing in front of Alfie. 

“Do what you have to do boy I don’t care how knowing this is something personal for you. But this man yea is beneath your feet now. Be quick about it,” said Sabini, making his way toward Alfie’s chair behind his desk.

Novel said little until he made eye contact with the Jewish gangster, that’s when he knew what he wanted to do.

“You took us in and gave us everything we could ask for, but you took away what I really cared so much and loved. Jovonka shouldn’t have chosen you, but she went along to do so. But now I’ll make you feel that pain,” the young boy said while from behind Jovonka look on with fear, holding back a breath and trying to understand why was he doing this.

Victor handed the boy a steel crowbar while Sabini leaned back against the chair with a big devil grin on his face. Novel had the tool between his hands. His eyes locked once again toward Alfie. 

“Novel, why are you doing this?” Jovonka questioned her friend, but he didn’t listen to her while he tighten his grip on the crowbar.

Alfie locked his eyes on his beloved soulmate, seeing the fear and tears in her eyes. 

This is all wrong… this can’t be happening…

Jovonka tried to break away from the Sabini’s henchmen but she failed at every attempt. 

“Novel, stop, please. Have you gone mad? Please,” she cried out, feeling her burning cheeks as her tears streamed down her face.

Novel blocked her voice away as he stared down at the Jewish gangster, ready to strike down at the man that took every opportunity away from him. Without saying another word, he lifted the crowbar over his right shoulder, feeling like everything was going in slow motion. Novel hit the older man’s left side of his face, tumbling down hard on the floor. Jovonka cried out, seeing him unconscious, groaning out in pain as he tried to get up, but he couldn’t. The boy then hit once again, but from behind his back, Alfie let out another loud growl Novel hit slow hit after another, hearing some bones crack while Jovonka cried for her friend to stop his rampage.

“NOVEL STOP! You're going to kill him, please just stop,” she wailed out, but the boy was stopping for one bit.

The young lad stopped for a moment and heaved in and out for breath while a now injured Alfie layout on the floor. He mumbled some audible words that couldn’t hear clearly. His face tilted slowly in Jovonka’s direction. The left side of his face showed an ugly big red scar while his eye covered in blood.

“Jo-Jovon-ka…,” he mumbly said, his mouth dripping with his own blood and spit, slowly reaching a weak hand towards her.

Suddenly Novel hit his face with his foot, blood splattered onto the wooden floor. 

“I think he understands your message, my boy. I’ll take care of him from here now,” Sabini said slowly, sitting up on his feet, feeling the side of his arm burn but trying to ignore it.

Making his way around the desk, he walked his way beside Alfie, looking down at the helpless big gangster that people of Camden Town once feared. But now he lay injured, covered by his own blood, which brought a smile upon Sabini’s face. 

“Do you feel useless now, Solomon’s? Seeing yourself lying here in your own failure knowing thinking you can get away so easily,” he said menacingly placing one of his feet above his chest and letting out a small chuckle, “Don’t you worry my friend, I’ll take very good care of your little whore. After I make her suffer slowly with my bare hands, just like you went through.”

Alfie tried to say something until everything went black before his eyes. Sabini gave him another blow on Alfie’s face, knocking him out cold. His body lay lifeless as Jovonka let out a painful wail.

“NO. ALFIE!” she yelled out. Victor let her go free as she knelt down beside him, hugging him tightly around her arms and letting out more tears.

Alfie… oh my love… no, no…

“Alright then boys, let’s go. I have had enough of this place. Take them all away and dispose of the body. I don’t care how you do it, but get rid of his corpse, yea?” Sabini commanded his henchmen nodded their heads and said “yes sir” in unison.

They led away Isabel and Edna from the office room, struggling and screaming for them to let them go. Jovonka still held onto Alfie for dear life, not wanting to let go in a heartbeat. Sabini was not having it until he snapped his fingers at Victor, gesturing him to take her away. 

“Alfie, no, don’t leave me, please. I love you, my darling,” she whimpered until she felt a large hand grabbing her tightly by her hair as they escorted her out of the office, letting out wailing screams of pain. 

Outside of the dark chilly night, awaited 4 black vehicles awaited waiting for their boss to come. Edna, Isabel, and Jovonka were then aggressively shoved inside one car. Ollie was instead taken away towards the side of the rum distillery, frightened by what was going to be done to him. Two of Sabini’s men were now carrying out Alfie’s lifeless body as they put him inside the other black car. A loud gunshot was heard in the air, making the women yelp as the two henchmen reappeared from the side of the building. But Ollie was nowhere to be seen until Jovonka realized what they had done to the poor young secretary. 

Oh no…. not Ollie…

Before Sabini got inside the car, he then nodded his head to Henry and two other of his men. They obeyed their bosses’ gestures as they made their way inside the distillery once again. Isabel, Jovonka, and Edna sat inside the dark vehicle in silence. Shivers ran down Jovonka’s body, recollecting what she had witnessed with her own eyes. Seeing Alfie brutally getting hit and kicked in front of her presence. She felt like half of herself within Alfie was crushing ever so slowly. Seeing her entire world in her presence felt like dying leaves in autumn. Sabini lit another brown cigar between his mouth, letting out a long, smokey cloud. They escorted Novel to the first black car in front of the others, being put in the back of the car with his wrists. Suddenly, a cloud of dark smoke smelled in the air. As the two henchmen reappeared from the building as flames rose from inside the distillery. Jovonka looked on in shock, seeing what once been Alfie’s empire now fell down into ashes. The orange flames consumed every part of the building. Sabini then took another drag from his brown roll, mesmerized at the work he has created. 

“Alright then boys, let’s get out of here,” he then said as he got inside the back of the black car, feeling no remorse.

As all the vehicles followed one leader to the other, Jovonka looked back at Alfie’s distillery. Wondering where they were taking her, Isabel, and Edna too, as her heart pumped ever so uncontrollably. In the far distance, she saw one car driving in the opposite direction, where the lifeless body of Alfie was driven away from each other. Jovonka shed a bit more tears, feeling the soul of his loved one no longer close to hers and what was only left behind was emptiness and sadness.

Oh my Alfie… I can’t believe you are gone…

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

The Next Morning 

The long boat was making its way through the quiet river path as the warm sunrise rose above the skies. It filled a good deal of endless storage brown boxes and other goods throughout the boat. But a very particular item in between the other stocks was making its way to a familiar place where no one even dared to step a foot. A little farther up on the river, heavy clinking of hammers was heard in the air. Working men here and there did their duties like any other normal day. Gray smoke rose in mid-air as the smell of steel and rust mixed with each other. 

“Charlie, we already packed the last few storages that came by boat, Are there still any more drivers that we should know of?” said one man his face filled with black stain marks on his face while he had his paperwork in his hands.

“No, that is all the stocks that we need for the moment, but we will be gettin’ more than soon as we get word again. You and your men should head on home. You all have done enough today,” said Charlie, taking a long drag from his white roll seeing at the piece of paper, seeing that everything looks clear.

“Charlie, Charlie,” called out another man with a dirty-looking black hat trying to catch his breath until a moment later he talked clearer, “You… you have to come and see this. You won’t believe what we found in this long boat.”

“What do you mean, Curly? Don’ start with sayin’ such nonsense. I have no time for this,” said Charlie, releasing an inaudible sigh.

“No, but you must, it’s somethin’ you won’ believe if you come see it yourself, man. Just come hurry,” said Curly back, gesturing a hand towards the other man to follow him.

Everyone made their way towards where Curly was directing them as they reached the bank of the river. There were a couple of men surrounding the boat. Charlie felt a bit confused to what was is all the fuss was about. Someone within the crowd came up to the trio with a light brown cap and a nice-looking suit.

“Charlie, you won’ believe wha’ we found in this boat. I couldn’ believe it meself either,” said the man in the cap with a thick Irish-like accent.

“What are you goin’ on about? Curly said the same thing and now you to Johnny Dog and yes, please show me what the hell you all want to show me,” Charlie said with a bit of frustration in his tone as he followed the man right behind.

As the other gentlemen made room for them to pass, Charlie saw what was everyone talking about. Inside the boat, there was a white sheet that looked to be in a shape of a human body with a few blood stains. Charlie, with a bit of bravery, step foot inside the boat, reaching a hand towards the peculiar item. He slowly unveiled the top of the sheet, revealing what looked to be a bearded man with half his face all beat up. While it showed a blood spot on top of his head, the man with a brown light cap recognized the man instantly. 

“By God, that is Alfie fuckin’ Solomon’s,” said Johnny Dog. His eyes grew wide with fright but yet confused at seeing the man from Camden Town be here, of all places.

There was a sudden wheezing sound coming out from Alfie’s mouth, freaking some men out as they took a step back. 

“Fuckin’ hell he still alive this man,” said Charlie, crouching down next to the Jewish gangster placing two fingers on the side of his stiff neck, feeling a faint pulse.

“Wha’ should we do with him?” Curly nervously asked, feeling unsure about helping a man that was clearly an enemy to them.

“Well, I know you lads will not like this as much. I don’ either. But we should take him straigh’ to Warwickshire,” said Johnny Dog, not liking where this whole situation was going.

“You mean… no you’re havin’ a laugh aren’t you Johnny?” Said Charlie looking up at the man hoping that he was not serious about what he was saying.

“No, I am not lads. But right now, let’s not waste any more time. We need to take him to the Arrow House. Come on, then hoist him up slowly,” said Johnny Dog, gesturing to some men to help them with Alfie.

I know Thomas is not goin’ to like this… not for one bit…

🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸🖤🥀🩸

[twvstedsouls]

The Elephant in the Room - Playlist

For @zablife​‘s playlist exchange, 

I created this playlist for @solomons-finest-rum​ for her amazing four part series The Elephant in the Room [you can find chapters 2, 3, and 4 here] 

Story Summary: What you thought would be a nice private space rented from a nice lady in a nice neighbourhood soon turned to be a living nightmare. Enter: the most excentric little girl and her even more unconventional father who just so happens to be the criminal boss of Camden Town.

Alfie is his usual lovely chaotic self, and the side/supporting characters are a delight and very detailed. Really loved your story Saga! 

🎶 Pressure by Youngblood Hawke

🎶 Young at Heart by Covenhoven

🎶 Hoppípolla by Sigur Rós

🎶 Glow by UNKLE

[weeo]

Peaky Season 6 Response Challenge: Masterlist - Episode 1

To recover from our emotions after watching S06E02, I invite you all to have a look at the lovely fanworks which have been created during the past week for S06E01. If some of you are late, you can still send your fic/art for episode 1 to me and I'll add it to the masterlist!

EPISODE 1 “BLACK DAY” •  27TH FEB

FIC - CANON CHARACTERS

• the unseen part 1 by @ganseybois

tommy x alfie // read ao3 & tumblr

• by the window by @doubleveil

ada & lizzie // read on ao3

• ashes by @emjenwrites

tommy & polly // read on ao3

• with spring comes new hopes by @weeo

ada & lizzie // read on ao3 & tumblr

• it goes like this by @deadendtracks

tommy x lizzie, tommy & arthur // read on ao3

• abstinence...or vices in lieu of by @whatsmyline-pb​

tommy x alfie // read on ao3

FIC - OC / READER

• tommy x female!reader imagine by @sophieshelby  & @retromafia

read on tumblr

• yes sir. please sir. by @findinghisredrighthand

tommy x female!reader 🔞 // read on tumblr

•  stolen child by @zablife

tommy x female!reader & ruby // read on tumblr

ART

• tommy x alfie art by @thatgurlstuff

• tommy shelby art by @andtherewerefireworks

I split the canon characters fics and OC fics because I know the readership is generally not the same and it’ll be easier for everyone to find what they’re looking for. 

Congrats and thank you to every writer and artist who managed to create something for this first week, this episode wasn’t an easy one to respond to! (Yes, I wrote that before watching S06E02 but it still stands). If you loved the fanworks, please leave some love to the creators by liking, reblogging and commenting! 

If you’re curious and don’t know what this challenge is about, you can read the introduction post. (and you can join if you want!)

[potter-solomons]

With females, he has a natural tendency to induce a sort of hypnotic trance over them. Pulling them into his bed and mating aggressively, then moving on to defend his territory.

🥵🥵🥵

They're all insanely accurate. Especially Alfie!!! And I read them all in David Attenborough's voice thank you!!!

Nature Documentary: Tom Hardy Characters

Leo Demidov

Ah, and here we see a rare Russian lion pondering the existence of evil. He is a beautiful beast, is he not?

He is known to stalk his prey for miles, and once engaged in the hunt, he is relentless.

This male might appear distant and elusive. However, when it comes to mating, he will choose his mate for life and is a fierce protector.

Freddie Jackson

This is one of the most unpredictable Tom Hardy species out in the wild. Note the cheeky smile. Alluring, attractive...but dangerous.

This beast draws in his prey with a calm demeanor before quickly switching over to brute force.

With females, he has a natural tendency to induce a sort of hypnotic trance over them. Pulling them into his bed and mating aggressively, then moving on to defend his territory.

Alfie Solomons

The cameramen have been advised to give this ferocious beast some distance. See the intensity in this male's eye? A stunning specimen of the Tom Hardy species indeed.

A highly territorial predator, Alfie Solomons stalks his natural habitat of Camden Town. To protect his territory, he puts on displays of dominance by proving his intellectual superiority through strategy. If other males are not daunted by this, then he resorts to physical aggression to lay claim to what's rightfully his.

Females are drawn to his musk and intense masculine magnetism. He has no issues finding a mate.

Eddie Brock

This curious creature, latin name Neurotix Eddix, has an interesting migration pattern. Though we've seen attempts at settling, the tracking chip shows yet another transition in location.

This beast is generally good-natured. However, recent blood tests after a catch and release indicate that he has been infected with some kind of parasite.

Instead of making him sick, the parasite has somehow enhanced his abilities. I believe we are seeing a rare but real-time evolution of genes in this species. Truly remarkable.

Ian Eames

A quick-witted and feisty creature, Eames mostly hunts alone. However, there are times we've seen him in collaborations with other males.

He is, at times, able to blend into his surroundings. Going unnoticed for hours. However, when he wishes to be seen, he pulls the attention of many.

If you look closely, you can notice his subtle but distinct plumage. The salomon colored shirt draws the attention of his intended mate, who is then floored by his extraordinary male beauty. Upon sensing the arousal of a potential mate, he wastes no time in mounting the female.

James Delaney

I am keeping my voice lowered so as not to disturb this majestic beast. His tolerance for attention is fairly low, so any sudden movement on our part will likely end in an attack.

James is a stealthy predator who has been known to use others for his own purposes. I've not seen such dedication at completing a hunt as compared to him. So it is best we do not annoy him.

Reggie Kray

Ah, yes, the dazzling yet dangerous Reggie Kray is seen walking the streets of East London. You see, the well pressed suit, polished shoes, and meticulously combed hair indicate his status and power. He is nonverbally telling others that he is king of this jungle.

He is a fiercesome predator. He is able to incapacitate his prey quickly and efficiently.

His ability to find a mate is extraordinary. Instead of looking for the female, as traditionally most males are ought to do in the wild. The female comes to him. It's absolutely fascinating.

[ijustwant2write]

A Little Secret-Alfie Solomons x Reader (Part 3/?)

(GIF credit to @fockingshelby​)

Masterlist

Part 1 / Part 2

Tags: @haphazardhufflepuff​ @mollybegger-blog​ @broitsriah​ @maryan028​ @peakascum​ @captivatedbycillianmurphy​ @jenepleurepasbaby​ @amirahiddleston​ @bloodorangemoonlight​ @mzcrazy2​ @br0ck-eddie​

Summary: After Alfie’s outburst, he has been avoiding Izzy, not wanting to face up to his disappointment. However, Izzy thinks the exact opposite, but of course, she doesn’t do anything to amend the situation. She too keeps out of his way, thinking she’ll only make him more angry, until they both receive a letter.

Characters: Alfie Solomons x OC!Reader, Ollie x OC!Reader

Warnings: Swearing, mention of death, arguing, shouting, crying, trauma, low self esteem issues

                                   *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Izzy heard something be pushed through the letterbox as she buttered her toast, wiping her buttery hand on a tea towel before going to retrieve it. She hardly got post, all of the time it would be bills, but today was different. It was in a crisp, white envelope with fancy handwriting, it even had a seal on the back. She inspected the wax, trying to figure out who it was from. Izzy had no friends, no family, which meant that this made her heart race in fear rather than anticipation. It opened without ripping and she took out the neatly folded letter. Her eyebrows scrunched together as she read it.

Dear Isabelle,

You are cordially invited to the opening of ‘The Blue Note’.

We have recently taken ownership before refurbishing, giving the club a completely new look and fresh feel. The evening will commence at 7.00PM where music and beverages will be provided. 

Please RSVP to the return address labelled on the envelope. We await for your reply with anticipation.

Kind regards,

Thomas Shelby

Shelby Company Limited

Izzy had no clue who Thomas Shelby was, or why he had invited her to a club opening. If her name hadn’t been addressed at the top, she would think it was just a businessman’s idea to bring in customers. This couldn’t be a coincidence, not after everything that was happening that week. She read it again as she finished her toast, noticing that it was almost time for her to go once she finished eating.

The morning at work went by as usual, time moving swiftly as Izzy completed her tasks alongside everybody else. It had been three days since the incident of her being locked up, and Alfie had avoided her like the plague. Although Izzy had wanted to speak with him, explain that she wasn’t upset with his actions, she knew she would never have the confidence to do so. Like always, she let life pass her by and decide her fate, rather than take control of it herself.

“Izzy,” Ollie got her attention, shoving a pile of letters into her hands,“need you to take these to Alfie, now.”

“I can’t!” Izzy protested, hating that Ollie was already walking away.“He doesn’t want to speak to me.”

“Then don’t speak, just drop off the letters.”

Ollie disappeared around the corner, causing Izzy to tense up, clutching onto the letters. Taking a deep breath, she turned around to look at Alfie’s office door, seeming more daunting than usual. Wanting to get it over with, she picked up the pace, finding herself in front of the door quicker than she expected. Knocking swiftly, Izzy could feel her heart rate increase as she was called in.

Of course Alfie knew it was her by the sound of the knock. He still wanted to keep away from Izzy, not wanting to risk upsetting her more than he already had. When she had cried out his name and ran after him after he punched that fucker, he had hated how that chipped away at him. She was his weakness, and no one else could see that. Noticing how she kept her head down, quickly placing the letters on his desk before turning around.

“Izzy.” he grumbled. 

She froze, glancing over her shoulder.

“I don’t have enough fucking time to sort through this. Do you mind reading them for me?”

She fully turned around, nodding before taking a seat. The first two letters weren’t of any importance to Alfie, he dismissed them after the starting sentence. But the next letter Izzy picked up was familiar to her, and Alfie noticed this.

“You like the look of that one?” he asked in a monotone voice.

“It’s just...” she mumbled.“I’m sure this is the same as the one I received this morning.”

That perked Alfie up.“What?”

She began opening it, recognising the wax seal.“Yeah, it is. It’s an invitation.”

Alfie held out his hand to take it, holding his glasses with his other hand as he read it. He looked confused at first, until he saw the signed name at the bottom, fury filling his body at the thought of Thomas Shelby knowing everything about Izzy.

“You’re not going.” he stated, carelessly throwing the paper on the desk.

“You know I’m not a big fan of clubs anyway.”

“You don’t reply to him, you don’t open anymore letters from him, and you go no where near that club!”

“Mr Solomons, I wasn’t going to-”

“He shouldn’t know about you.”

“Who? Who is Thomas Shelby?”

“He’s the business associate that visited, when that man got shot.”

“How does he know where I live?”

“I don’t know.”

“Do you...do you think he wants to hurt me?”

Alfie said nothing, abruptly standing from his chair and storming to his office door. Leaning out of it, he yelled out Ollie’s name, harshly slamming the door again which caused Izzy to flinch. She shouldn’t have mentioned the letter, she was in trouble now, it wasn’t like she was going to go to the club anyway. 

Ollie knocked before entering, sensing the tension in the room as he glanced between his boss and friend. Alfie shoved the letter into Ollie’s hands, his eyes widening as he read it. What was Thomas Shelby’s plan here? He knew Alfie’s temper was short, and he knew that Izzy meant a lot more to than man than he wanted to let on. This wasn’t good, Izzy shouldn’t even be near this place, she never should have been in the first place. Alfie whispered in Ollie’s ear, it was so quiet to ensure that Izzy wouldn’t catch one word of it. 

“Mr Solomons?” Izzy piped up as Ollie left. She tried to make eye contact, but he left swiftly.

“You’re going home now, collecting as many of your things as possible, and letting the lads take you somewhere to stay.” he demanded.

“I’m sorry?”

“Ollie and a few lads are going to drive you home. If you need extra cases, I can get ya’ some-”

“Why am I packing my belongings?”

“Cause you’re staying in an old place of mine, somewhere where no one will find you.”

“W-why? Mr Solomons, what’s going on?”

“I’ll explain once you’re safe.”

“Please Mr Solomons,” Izzy stood, catching his attention and stopping him from pacing,“I need to understand what’s happening. You can’t just cart me about and kick me out of my home!”

She was scared, it was evident all over her face. Alfie didn’t want to tell her. He wanted to hide her away from it all until it was all over, keep her safe until he had shot all those bastards dead. 

Ollie popped his head through the door.“Cars ready Alfie.”

“Please Alfie.” Izzy hardly used his first name.

“Go.”

Izzy’s mind was screaming at her to defend herself, keep begging for an answer. Something dangerous was going on here, and she was near, if not in, the centre of it all. Why couldn’t she just be like any other normal person? They would at least have the decency to raise their voice. But she was weak. She always had been, it would never change. Quickly turning away from Alfie, she hunched up as she brushed past Ollie. There wasn’t anything she could do to go against him.

Staying silent in the car, Izzy had her hands clasped together, squished between two burly men Alfie had entrusted her safety in. Ollie was driving with another man in the passenger seat. No one was in the mood for conversation, not that Izzy would ever be able to hold one with any of them; Ollie was the only one she had ever spoken to for more than two minutes. 

“Be quick as you can Izzy, we need to get you to the safe house.” Ollie advised as they entered her home, two men staying beside the car as the other two checked around the back of her house.“You need me to grab anything for you down here?”

“Um...” it was incredibly hard to think of all your possessions off the top of your head.“No, thank you, Ollie. I...I think everything I need is upstairs.”

Izzy had emptied all of her drawers and wardrobe into the cases she had, though she didn’t own that many clothes anyway. There weren’t any valuable items laying about, though there was one thing she had to save. Kneeling on the floor, Izzy reached underneath her bed, feeling around for the chipped floorboard. Once found, she silently lifted it, reaching inside for the last letters her mother wrote her, as well as the necklace she’d had since she moved there...it had been gifted by a certain someone. 

“Where are we going Ollie? Where’s this safe house? I don’t mind walking to work, I just want to know how far away it is.” Izzy asked as she struggled to carry her cases downstairs.

He quickly took them off her, though hid how heavy they were.“Um, Alfie will explain once we’re there.”

“Mr Solomons will be there?”

“Please Izzy, just do what he’s told you so neither of us get in trouble.”

He didn’t mean to snap, but Izzy knew by now not to question everything. Sometimes her staying silent was the best option. Ollie handed over her cases to the men to load into the car, waiting for her to lock up. She took out her keys, looking up at the tiny, terraced house she had lived in for so many years. It seemed dramatic, but being away from the only place she felt comfort, the only place she could control the look of, it made her uneasy, especially because she didn’t know how long she would be away from it.

The car ride indicated that this safe house was certainly further away than Izzy would have liked. Ollie was secretly glad that the other men were here, it stopped her from asking questions. He didn’t actually know the full story, he didn’t know why Alfie was taking such big precautions; and he was being made to drive through the slums into the countryside, the city slowly being left behind. Firstly the houses started to get bigger and further away from each other, they went from blocks of flats, terraced, before becoming semi-detached. The streets started to look cleaner, as did the people walking them. Instead of homeless men and prostitutes lining the streets, women out for afternoon strolls with their babies in prams chatted away to each other, and old couples enjoyed their retirement together. Izzy held back a smile as she peeked out of the window, having only imagined places like this when she read her books.

Unfortunately, the awkwardness remained in the car for another twenty minutes, all of them secretly relieved when they pulled up at another house. It wasn’t a place that homed people full of riches, though they certainly weren’t poor. Driving down a back alley, they parked outside a small, semi-detached house. The other house beside it had a boarded up door and windows, with overgrown ivy all over it.

“This belongs to Mr Solomons?” Izzy asked as they all exited the car.

“Apparently so. I was as shocked as you are.” Ollie said before instructing the others to take her cases inside.

As they stepped inside, they saw that it was minimally decorated, though that didn’t surprise them. There were a few cobwebs about the place, as well a dust that had settled on top of surfaces. But with a quick clean up, it could look homely. It hadn’t been lived in for a while, the floorboards creaked from the new weight (that was something Izzy was both thankful and upset about, she could hear if anyone was in the house, but then again, that would mean someone was in the house). 

“Izzy?” Ollie called to her as she explored the kitchen. Her head showed up in the doorway.“They’ve put your things upstairs.”

“Thank you.” she meekly said, going back into the kitchen until she saw Ollie leaving.“You’re leaving?”

“Yeah, the men will stay though, to guard you.”

She scurried down the hallway to him, standing in the doorway as he continued walking.“What am I meant to do?”

“Settle in. Alfie will be here soon, maybe you could clean up the house?” he was joking, but that didn’t resonate with Izzy.

“Do you know what’s going on? With any of this?”

He sighed, approaching her so the others wouldn’t hear.“I’m sorry Izzy, I don’t know anything. If I did, I promise I would tell you. Alfie has instructed me to bring you here, and said he’ll be coming to see you today.”

“Oh...right.”

“Izzy, you’ll be absolutely safe here, we’re prepared for anything...I didn’t mean...not that anything will happen. I’m going to go before I say anything else.”

After Ollie left, she locked the door with the keys left for her, wishing there were more locks. She was in a small state of shock. Her life was being controlled, all because of something that she had no idea about. The only thing she could do now was as Ollie said, settle in. She was disturbed by the dust everywhere, heading into the kitchen to find a duster and other cleaning supplies. Her own belongings could wait. Covering her mouth with a handkerchief, Izzy still coughed and sneezed, her eyes watering. The house was modest for what rooms it held. It had a front room, a kitchen, a bathroom, two bedrooms and a small garden. It was more than what Izzy had ever had, and it was properly furnished. But you knew no one had been living here.

“Izzy?” Alfie’s voice made her jump. She had just finished dusting in the bedroom her cases were.“Izzy, where are you?”

Removing the handkerchief from her mouth, she brushed off the dust that had fallen onto her dress as she made her way down the stairs. Alfie was stood at the bottom, watching her. In that moment, he couldn’t help but think...no, he shouldn’t be thinking things like that, they would never come true.

“What you think then?” Alfie sniffed.

“It’s a lovely house, Mr Solomons.”

“Won it in a bet didn’t I? Didn’t know it would come in handy one day. Tea?”

She followed him into the kitchen, starting to boil the water as he sat down at the table big enough for four people. He glanced around the place, trying to distract himself from how Izzy looked like the perfect housewife in that moment. No one spoke as the tea brewed. Izzy wanted to ask questions, but she knew she had to be grateful for whatever Mr Solomons was protecting her from. And Alfie didn’t want to say anything stupid, he thought she was still angry with him. Once the tea was ready, Izzy focused on keeping a steady hand as poured it into two cups. The tension was building more and more by the second, she didn’t want to make matters worse by pouring boiling water onto your boss’ crotch.

“You’re probably confused.” Alfie said, taking a sip of the drink.

Izzy sat beside him, leaving her cup.“Yes, I am.”

“I’m just being over cautious Iz, can’t risk anything.” 

“About what?”

He rubbed his eyes with one hand, sighing loudly.“That letter you received, it’s from Thomas Shelby.Do you know who he is?”

Izzy shook her head.

“I hoped you wouldn’t. But I’ve got to tell you in order for all of this to make sense. He’s the leader of this gang, right, this gang from Birmingham. They call themselves the Peaky Blinders, due to the razors they sew into their caps. It’s, it’s barbaric if you ask me.”

“And, this gang, they want to hurt me?”

“Nah, nah, not that I know of. But he’s becoming a powerful man. He’s proven that by finding out who you are and where you live.”

“You don’t think they had anything to do with the man who harassed me in the street?”

“Nah, but he’s up to something.”

“So...so what do we do now?”

“You’re going to stay here, until that’s figured out.”

“But how am I supposed to get to work? I mean, it’s no problem for me to walk, I just know it’s further away-”

“You’re not going to walk to work, because you’re not going to work Izzy.”

“But, how am I supposed to earn money? What am I going to do here?”

“I’ll still pay you. Think of it as holiday pay. A holiday where you can’t leave the house.”

“What?”

“No one knows you round here Izzy, but you can’t let anyone see you here. That’s why it’s good that the house is tucked away with no neighbours.”

“But I could be stuck here for ages.”

“You’ll be fine.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Well, you, you like being alone.”

Izzy raised an eyebrow at him.

“Yeah, you keep to yourself, you don’t have any friends, what’s wrong with staying in here?”

“Because I’m trapped!”

Alfie hadn’t expected her to protest.“You’re not fucking trapped! You’re safe!”

“Safe from what? You won’t tell me!”

“What’s got into you? You’re never like this.”

“Because...because maybe I’m scared! You’re not telling me anything Mr Solomons-”

Alfie stood from his chair, coming off more demeaning as he towered over her.“Why do you always call me that? We’ve known each other since we were children! You never say my name!”

Izzy shrunk into her seat, hands gripping the side of the chair in fear.“I-I...You’re my boss, I-”

“That makes no difference! Oh for fucks sake, Izzy, we’re practically the same age!”

Izzy ducked her head, too scared to look at him.“I’m sorry, Mr Sol-Al-Alfie!”

Alfie realised how he looked to her, but his stubbornness got in the way. Instead of apologising like she should have, and wanted to, he kept going, somehow thinking that scaring her more would make her want to stay.

“Just do as you’re told. It’s not like anyone is going to notice you’re gone. I’m doing this for you, some fucking gratitude would be nice.”

But as soon as he saw the tears in her eyes, he hated himself. How was he supposed to know how to talk to women? Let alone comfort them! Izzy meant a dear amount to him, which is why he hated himself right now. He knew this woman for most of his life, why couldn’t he read her? Not knowing what else to say, Alfie left the shocked woman behind, heading out and past the men he put in place. They pretended they hadn’t heard any of their shouting.

Izzy didn’t move for another few minutes, scared that something else might happen. Alfie slamming the door didn’t help, causing her to flinch, a small yelp escaping her mouth. Once she was certain he was gone, the tears fell freely and silently, not wanting to make any noise, with only one thought circling her mind.

Why am I so weak?