#afternoon shelby chaos

[queenshelby]

The Peaky Role (Part Two)

Pairing: Cillian Murphy x Reader

Warning: Age Gap, Best Friend's Dad

Several days later...

It was a Saturday afternoon, at around 4 o'clock, after drama class, that you went to visit Nina at her house in one of Dublin's most charming neighborhoods, where ivy clung eagerly to the brick fronts and flowering trees bowed under the weight of the blossoms.

After ringing the doorbell, you waited patiently and, after a minute or so, Nina's father, Cillian, opened the door, his face momentarily betraying surprise before settling into a warm smile.

"Hey Y/N," he said and you were a little surprised to see him since you knew that he had moved out of the family home around nine months ago.

Him and his wife Danielle, Nina's mother, had been trying to navigate the rocky waters of their marriage and, as Nina had called it, were taking a break but, clearly, this break had not turned into something permanent yet. He was here now after all and you knew that this must have stood for something at least.

"Hey Cillian," you stammered, trying to shake off your surprise. "It's nice to see you," you then said, forcing a casual tone. The familiar blue of his eyes still held that confident gleam, even under frayed edges.

With him not living at home anymore, you had not seen your friend's father for almost six months now as he had been busy filming. After the Oscars, his schedule was packed with events, interviews, and projects, leaving little room for anything else.

Even your father had not seen his best friend a lot during this time and you were somewhat taken by how grey his hair had turned in such a short span, though it only added to his charm.

“I assume you are here for Nina?” Cillian leaned against the door frame, smiling handsomely.

“Yeah,” you replied, glancing into the living room where the soft sounds of music floated in the air. “I just wanted to hang out with her for a bit.”

He nodded and stepped aside. “She’s upstairs, in her room," he told you and you stepped inside, taking in the familiar chaos of Nina's world.

"Thanks," you murmured, closing the door behind you.

The living room was untouched—a stark contrast to the organized chaos of Nina’s usual mess. Cillian and Danielle had three children together and the remnants of family life still loomed large in the clutter.

A half-eaten bowl of popcorn sat on the coffee table beside an open script. 'The Story of Thomas Shelby' it said on the cover of it and, whilst you hadn’t meant to peek, your curiosity tugged at you.

"Have you learned your lines yet?" you asked as you plucked the script from the table, scanning the text with a mix of excitement and anxiety.

Cillian chuckled softly, pushing his hands into his pockets. “Some of them," he said and, just before he could ask you about this new role of yours, in the very same movie, you both heard Nina bounding down the stairs, her hair bouncing playfully as she descended.

"There you are!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around you in a quick embrace. “I thought you’d ditch me for your boyfriend again ,” she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

“Hardly,” you laughed, nudging her shoulder playfully. “You know I would pick our friendship over any guy, even my boyfriend.”

Cillian chuckled, shaking his head mockingly. “Smart girl,” he replied, crossing his arms. “Boys are trouble. Isn't that right, Nina?”

"Jesus dad," Nina groaned, rolling her eyes dramatically. “Can’t you just, I don’t know, be a little less emberassing when I have a friend over?” Nina asked, and Cillian feigned innocence, raising his hands in mock surrender.

“I thought embarrassing you was part of my job description,” he quipped, gaining a playful glare from Nina. “Despite, I am just sharing my wisdom, sweetheart. You’re free to ignore it.”

"Okay dad," Nina said, exasperated yet amused, rolling her eyes again before turning towards you. “Let's go upstairs," she then said as she pulled your arm, leading you up the stairs and away from Cillian's amused smirk.

Once inside her room, the door clicked shut, cutting off the sounds of the music from below.

Nina flopped onto her bed, throwing her limbs out as if to claim the space. Her room, a kaleidoscope of posters and bright-colored cushions, felt alive—almost as if the walls themselves were chattering about the countless dreams and secrets shared within.

"Does your dad live here again now?" you wondered out loud as Nina rolled over, propping herself up on her elbows.

"Yepp, he moved back in two weeks ago," Nina sighed, a mix of relief and concern crossing her face. "Mom’s still being... well, Mom, but they’re trying."

You nodded, sensing the strain beneath her words. "Trying? How's that working out for them?" you asked, cautious to dive deeper after all that happened between them just over nine months ago.

"Fine, I guess," Nina shrugged, the weight of her emotions resting heavily on her furrowed brow. “They go to counseling every Thursday. Mom says it’s progress, but honestly? The tension is still everywhere in the house. You can feel it, like a storm waiting to break.”

"That sounds tough," you said softly, picking at a loose thread on your jeans. "I can't imagine what it’s like to navigate that. I mean, my parents' divorce felt like the world was turned upside down."

Nina nodded, her expression shifting into a contemplative frown. “Yeah, it’s like walking on eggshells sometimes,” she admitted, her gaze drifting to the window where branches swayed gently in the spring breeze.

"And I think dad moved back in because of my little sister as she was really struggling with all of it." Nina sighed, the weight of concern creeping into her voice. "You know that she was caught drinking at a party last month? Dad was furious. They had a massive argument, and I think he felt like he needed to come home to take control of the situation."

You leaned forward, encouraging Nina to share more of her thoughts. “But he is going to be away filming again in five weeks,” you pointed out, shifting your weight as you watched her expression twist between frustration and confusion.

“Yeah, exactly,” she huffed, throwing her head back dramatically. “But by then, hopefully, it will all be sorted out and, apparently, he is coming home every weekend, which is better than nothing, I guess,” Nina said, a hint of hope conflicting with her guarded expression. “But who knows, right?”

She fell silent for a moment, and the room hummed with unspoken thoughts. “I never knew why they broke up in the first place," Nina then continued, her gaze focused on a poster that hung crookedly on the wall.

“Mom always kept it vague,” she said, twisting a strand of hair around her finger. "It was all about 'space' and 'needing to find themselves,' whatever that means," Nina continued, the frustration in her voice palpable. “But I saw how much it hurt him so part of me is happy that they are back together," her voice trailed off, the conflict in her emotions evident.

You nodded, understanding the tumult of loyalty she must have felt. You had been there too, many years ago, but couldn't offer a solution to her emotional quagmire.

“Do you think it’s really genuine?” you asked, leaning back against the wall, arms crossed. “Or just temporary while they sort out this... whatever this is?”

Nina sighed again, her brow furrowing further. “I wish I knew, honestly. Sometimes it feels like they’re just pretending because they don’t want to hurt us. Like a game they have to play for our sake,” she said, her frustration bubbling to the surface. “But then again, they are trying so hard and I hope that they really find each other again before it’s too late," Nina said before wanting to change the topic.

"Now, what about James?" Nina’s gaze sharpened, an eager spark igniting her features. "Tell me! What did he do this time?" she wanted to know, having senses the anger in your voice earlier when she mentioned his name, downstairs.

“Oh, don’t get me started on James!” you exclaimed, throwing your hands up as you let out an exasperated laugh. “He is pissed about me taking that role and being away for two months which, in the acting game, is absolutely nothing!" you vented, pacing back and forth in the confined space of her room now.

Nina arched an eyebrow. “Hehas always been needy and controlling, Y/N. It's nothing new and you really need to ditch him," Nina leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. “You’re on the brink of a breakthrough, and he wants you to put it on hold for his convenience? That’s ridiculous!”

“I know,” you said, exasperation creeping into your tone. “But he keeps saying that we need to focus on 'us' and I just want to scream," you confessed, throwing your hands up in exasperation. “I’m not sure if he even gets what this means for me. It's a reasonably big role and I am new to the scene, so it is a vital opportunity. I just want to prove to myself that I can do this without relying on anyone else and he is just making it harder to breathe right now."

Nina sat forward, her expression shifting from playful to intense. “You know, if he can’t support you now, then he doesn’t deserve to be a part of your life," she explained. "When my dad was new to acting, mom supported him every step of the way. That’s how it should work. You need someone in your corner, not someone dragging you down."

You paced the small room, the weight of her words sinking in. You knew that she was right but change felt daunting. “It’s just hard to think about letting someone go, especially when we’ve been together so long,” you admitted, pulling at your fingers nervously.

Nina shifted, settling in closer on her bed, her expression softening. “I get that," she said, her voice steady. "But you are so young , and it’s stupid to waste your energy on someone who doesn't see your worth," she said and you stopped pacing to sit beside her on the edge of the bed, feeling the warmth of her friendship wrap around you like a familiar blanket.

“Maybe you’re right,” you replied, staring at your hands in your lap, the weight of possibility lingering in the space between you.

Nina nudged your shoulder, a playful smile creeping onto her face. “You know what this calls for?” she declared, leaning in closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

“What?” you asked, curiosity piquing as you scanned the room for clues. Nina grinned, her excitement bubbling over.

"A sleepover !" she declared, bouncing on the bed. “We can binge-watch all those cheesy romances we used to love and eat way too much popcorn! It’ll be fun!”

“Count me in!” you laughed, the weight of your earlier worries lightening. Nostalgia tugged at your heart, filling you with the comfort of countless late nights spent wrapped in blankets, laughter echoing through the walls, and secrets safely tucked away under pillows.

You had not done this for years and the thought filled you with a warmth that chased away the creeping shadows of your anxieties.

After seeking her father's permission for you to stay over, which, of course, he gave, Nina's mother and siblings arrived back home with take-away pizza.

As the front door swung open, the rich aroma of cheese and spices wafted into the air, mingling with the faint scent of spring. Danielle, juggling several boxes, called out, “Dinner is served!"

You exchanged a quick glance with Nina, the playful spark returning as she raised her eyebrows, a silent signal to you.

“Perfect timing,” Nina smirked, bouncing off the bed. “Let’s go dig in before my brother demolishes it all!”

You followed her downstairs, where the living room brimmed with jovial chaos. The moment you entered the living room, the scene unfolded like a vibrant tableau. Her siblings crowded around the coffee table, their voices a cacophony of laughter and playful bickering, desperately trying to stake their claim on the best slices of pizza. Cillian perched on the edge of the couch, a bemused smile on his face as he maneuvered around the chaos, playfully mocking his children’s antics while remaining somewhat cold and distance towards Danielle.

You stifled a laugh while Nina whispered to you, “Welcome to the circus that is my family,” she grinned, shaking her head in mock exasperation, not noticing the tension between her parents while, to you, it was obvious.

“Honestly, it’s like a live-action cartoon sometimes,” Nina whispered to you, chuckling as one of her younger siblings dramatically fell over in their attempt to snatch the last slice of pepperoni pizza , sending the others into fits of laughter.

Cillian raised an eyebrow as he watched the chaos unfold with a blend of amusement and a hint of nostalgia. It was clear that he missed this—this vibrant, animated space filled with laughter and love, if only there wasn’t that cloud looming nearby.

Later that evening, you huddled back in Nina's room, the remnants of dinner still fresh on your mind. The familiar chaos had settled into a comfortable silence, the soft glow of fairy lights wrapping the room in a warm embrace.

You both sprawled across the bed, indiscernible snippets of laughter echoing in the haze of pizza grease and satisfaction that lingered in the air. Nina flicked through streaming options on her phone, squinting at the screen as if it held the secrets of the universe. “Okay, how about this one?” she said, perking up as she found a romantic comedy with a title that made you both roll your eyes.

“‘Nah, that looks aweful," you chuckled and, before Nina could even react, you grabbed the phone and began scrolling through the options yourself.

“Let’s find something we can get into,” you proposed, biting back a grin and, after you took charge, it didn't take you long to find something.

"If you can set it up from your phone, I will just go and have my shot," you proposed, tilting your head toward her as you stood up, the friendly banter still lingering in the air.

“Alright!” Nina replied eagerly, taking the phone back from you while you took some time to prepare your insuline shot.

"I will be right back," you said, knowing that she was afraid of needless, which is why you usually administered the drugs in the privacy of a bathroom nearby.

You made your way down the hall, heart racing a bit as you tried to shake off the nerves that always lingered around this ritual.

You hated needles too, but had gotten used to it over the years but, just as you were about to enter the bathroom, the door swung open from the other side.

Cillian stepped out, surprise flashing across his face before it smoothly morphed into concern. He paused, blocking the doorway, his body language shifting to a protective stance.

"You okay, Y/N?" he asked, his deep blue eyes scanning your face as you had inadvertently dropped your syringe.

Kneeling down, Cillian carefully picked up the syringe, the tips of his fingers brushing against yours as he handed it back. The warmth of his touch sent a small shiver down your spine, and you felt suddenly conscious of the awkwardness hanging in the air which was amplified by the fact that he was just wearing some boxer shorts.

You cleared your throat, your cheeks warming as you accepted the syringe back from him, focusing on its metallic sheen to avoid meeting his gaze.

“Yes, thanks,” you said, your voice slightly unsteady.

"How is the new monitor?" he asked, his gaze steady and curious, a hint of genuine concern lacing his tone.

“It's good, just... a bit of a learning curve,” you admitted, your fingers fidgeting with the syringe, battling the sudden onset of nerves.

Cillian nodded, his expression serious but reassuring. "That's good," he said, his voice steady. “You’ll figure it out; it just takes some time.”

You looked up, meeting his gaze briefly, and felt how the moment stretched into something deeper, ut what Cillian said next pulled you from your train of thoughts.

"I saw your dad two days ago. He told me about the new monitor," he clarified before adressing the elephant in the room as well. "And, just so you know, I think that he is uncomfortable with you taking that role for Peaky Blinders—and I get it, with the scenes involved."

You held your breath, the jab of tension sinking deep. A lump formed in your throat as you searched for the right words. “Are you uncomfortable too?" you eventually asked, your heart racing as you gauged his reaction. Cillian's brows furrowed slightly, and he seemed to consider his words carefully.

“No, I am not uncomfortable,” he finally replied, his voice steady but laced with an air of caution. “It’s just… I’ve been in this business long enough to know how things can become awkward when roles cross into personal territories and I'm just worried about how it may impact you, considering that I am your best friend's dad. That's all. I just wanted you to give it some thought," Cillian explained and you took a deep breath, the weight of his words settling heavy in the air between you.

"I gave it some thought already," you said, your voice barely above a whisper. “And the fact that you are my best friend's father doesn't bother me. Honestly," you continued, swallowing hard as you felt a tiny spark of defiance. “I want to prove that I can do this and it doesn't matter who with."

Cillian studied you for a long moment, the seriousness in his gaze unwavering as he processed your words.

Good," he finally said, his voice steady and almost relieved. “Then I have no doubt you’ll do brilliantly," he smiled at you, the corners of his lips lifting in a genuine expression that softened the weight of the conversation.

Relief washed over you, but a small seed of doubt still lingered in the back of your mind. You plastered a smile onto your face, but the implications of what lay ahead nagged at the corners of your consciousness.

There were three intimate scenes in the script, with one of them scheduled for the first week of filming, gnawing at your confidence.

It was more than just a kissing scene. It was a scene where you would both have to be naked in front of the cameras. The thought sent a shiver down your spine, tangled with excitement and fear.

Tags:

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[littlefandomfairy]

Thomas Shelby | Robert Fischer | Jonathan Crane | Patricia 'Kitten' Braden

🩷 (fluff) 🍆 (smut) 👿 (angst) 🩹 (hurt/comfort)

*fic rec masterlist*

Thomas Shelby (Peaky Blinders)

at the end of the day by @lis-likes-fics 🍆👿

a man with a reputation by @kadwrites (individual warnings)

girl dad (series) by @runnning-outof-time (individual warnings)

fourth times the charm by @moral-terpitude 🩷🍆

is it lightning that has me falling in love? (series) by @queenmaddsauthor (individual warnings)

call me tommy by @acewritesfics 🩷

show me how you need me by @cillianhead 🍆

just another nightmare by @your-nanas-house 🩷🍆

me time by @garrison-girl-08 🩷

nobody but her by @babybluebex 🩷🩹

dada by @babybluebex 🩷

body worship by @mysaintkitten 🩷🍆

frozen fear by @theonewiththefanfics 🩷🍆👿🩹

flipped (series) by @cillspropertea (individual warnings)

afternoon shelby chaos (series) by @teenwolf-theoriginals (individual warnings)

dad!tommy

mr. giraffe

the boys

and her name is...

evening shelby chaos

happy birthday, my love

ava and rob

arranged by @shewrites444 🍆👿

mrs. shelby's birthday by @garrison-girl-08 (individual warnings)

jealous thomas by @padfootdaredmetoo 🩷

never tired of you @runnning-outof-time 🩷

bedtime stories by @runnning-outof-time 🩷

come to bed by @runnning-outof-time 🩷

request by @padfootdaredmetoo 🩷👿🩹

lurking in the shadows by @pherelesytsia 🩷

old faces (series) by @garrison-girl-08

Robert Fischer (Inception)

swollen boobs by @darlingsfandom 🍆

telling him you're pregnant by @babybluebex

morning sex by @mypoisonedvine 🩷🍆

hurt/comfort trope by @babybluebex 🩷🩹

are you asking me out? by @willaferrreyra 🩷

layover by @kiss-me-cill-me 🩷🍆

a deal in matrimony (series) by @hellotherekenobi (individual warnings)

the muse by @viesanterieures 🩷

Jonathan Crane (Batman Begins)

nsfw alphabet by @floralcyanide 🩷🍆

domesticity by @differentclasss 🩷🍆

age gap by @madlittlecriminal 🩷🍆

closer by @floralcyanide 🩷🍆

headcanons by @floralcyanide 🩷🍆

crystal blue by @a-nemoiia 🩷

v.planifolia by @kiss-me-cill-me 🩷🍆

glowing by @acapelladitty 🩷

those little things by @mothhball 🩷

Patricia 'Kitten' Braden (Breakfast On Pluto)

cheri cheri lady (series) by @pictureinme 🩷🍆

strap-ons by @pictureinme 🩷🍆

reminiscence by @mysaintkitten 🩷🍆

dolled up by @mysaintkitten 🩷🍆

sweet dreams by @mysaintkitten 🩷🍆

show girls by @mypoisonedvine 🩷🍆

lemon & lavender by @mypoisonedvine 🩷🍆🩹

blush by @mysaintkitten 🩷🍆

little one by @pictureinme 🩷🍆

[call-sign-shark]

The public, and by public I mean me 😂, want a play date between Kaiser and Cyril 🐕🐕. Destroying Tommy's garden

😂

Omg I died at your request. This was such a fantastic idea, Flor! Hope you'll enjoy some dog chaos 😂 I can't stop giggling when thinking about the moment Tommy will see it...

Summary: As you are waiting for Arthur in Tommy's garden, your afternoon takes an unexpected turn. In fact, Cyril and Kaiser decide to have a play date and it doesn't go well for the mansion's garden.

Words: 1.3k

Notes: This work is a part of Heaven in Your Eyes' universe, but you can obviously read it as a stand-alone.

If there was one thing you hated about your husband, it was his brother Thomas Shelby. That was why you decided to wait outside, in the mansion’s gargantuan garden, rather than accompany Arthur inside. Following the whole prison incident, he had himself become more distant from Thomas, even though the love and loyalty he felt toward his little brother kept him from sinking into pure hatred. Arthur reluctantly left you alone for a while in this potentially hostile environment, only doing so because of the giant hundred pounds dog that watching over you. For sure, Arthur knew that Kaiser would maim and shred any fool who would try to hurt you — you were more than safe when the dog was around. 

Here you were, comfortably sitting on a bench surrounded by a dizzying range of colorful flowers whose delicate scent was carried away with the soft spring breeze. Reading Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland for the hundredth time, you felt yourself transported to Wonderland’s garden by the words that were printed on the paper. A relaxed sigh escaped from your plump and glossed lips as the gentle warmth of sun rays caressed your porcelain skin. You were devouring Lewis Carroll’s story when, all of sudden, the loud bark of Kaiser snatched you from your bubble. As a gargantuan Cane Corso, Kaiser’s growls and howls tended to be so booming and low-tone they would make everyone’s quiver, even when the beast just wanted to play.

“What is it, Kaiser?” You asked the dog, closing the book and gently scratching the huge brute behind his cropped ear. Standing at attention, his Hazel eyes were staring far away at the distance. You frowned and looked in his direction, searching for the source of his agitation, “Oh fuck —“ The word fell from your mouth before you could even realize it, for what was catching Kaiser’s attention was the large silhouette of a man in a hat, a huge English mastiff walking beside him.  It did not take more than a quick look to recognize the infamous Alfie Solomons. You remained silent, one of your hands firmly closing around Kaiser’s collar to keep him close. To be honest, you mentally crossed your fingers for Alfie Solomons not to notice you for you wanted nothing from him. Not even a greeting. 

“Oh! SHALOM MRS. SHELBY!” Alfie’s voice boomed in the distance. Mission failed — the king of Camden Town not only had noticed you but was now heading to you, supporting his weight with a walking stick. You have heard from the Shelbys that his sciatica had become worse over time — not that you cared though, “Shalom.” He repeated, his piercing blue eyes staring at your aquamarine irises with unsettling insistence as he waited for you to greet him.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Solomons.” You gritted through your teeth, unable to hide the gleam of resentment that was burning in your dark pupils. 

“Here I finally meet her, Arfah Shelby’s wife and dearest treasure! The angel who fell from Shamayim only to get dicked balls deep by a foul-mouthed, whiskey-drunk, and rabid Peaky Blinders. Not that I want to disrespect dear Arfah, what a scary lad he can be when he’s angry.” Alfie took off his hat when he talked, probably in the hope of showing a bit of respect. Or maybe not, it was always so difficult to probe his attentions and thoughts, even for a witch like you, “You made him a believer tho, and I can understand why now that I’ve met you.” 

You bit your inner cheek so hard the metallic taste of blood exploded on your tongue. In case you doubted it you were now certain: you hated him. You were so annoyed by his presence that you did not notice Cyril and Kaiser sniffing each other, tail wagging in contempt. 

“Now that we are here, I’d like to give you my most sincere apologies for attempting to murder your husband. It was nothing personal, just some business formalities but thanks God this whole quarrel is behind us now! But know that your lover is one hell of a fucking bastard hard to kill. And God knew I did my best to—“ 

“Listen Alfie, for the sake of your weird alliance with Tommy we’re going to forget this accident, especially because I was not there at that time. But know that your apologies are not accepted. Pretty sure Mrs. Rose Solomons would dig her nails in Arthur’s chest to rip his heart out if he had tried to kill you. Consider yourself lucky I don’t. Only out of sheer respect for Rosie.” 

In the background, Cyril and Kaiser had started playfully jumping at each other, tongues hanging and butts wiggling. Quite a different mood than the one between Alfie and you. The Cane Corso rolled on the ground, his four paws up in the air as the Mastiff sniffed his belly. They seemed to have a hell of a fun moment.

“Bloody hell, woman, Tommy was damn right when he said you were Satan in the shape of an Angel. You’ve got claws just like me woman—“ 

“Goodbye, Mr. Solomons.” You cut him off, “Come on Kaiser.”  You said, processing to leave the place but you stopped when you realized your huge guardian had not followed you, which was unusual taking into account how obedient he was. 

“Well, well, would you look at that Mrs. Shelby! Seems like good Cyril and your dog get along pretty well. So well they don’t want to part, ey. You know I’m more than delighted by this new friendship because Cyril tends to feel lonely these days. He had a very great friend at Camden but I shot his owner — sad, sad story.”

“No, Kaiseeeeer.” You muttered to yourself, as you saw the two massive beasts chasing each other and barking playfully, their beady eyes glistening with excitement. Among all the friends Kaiser could have made, he chose Cyril. Not that you had something against that good boy, but it ultimately meant you had to stay near Alfie Solomons the whole time the animals were having fun -- And God knew the man talked too much, too fast, and was hard to follow. To be true, having a discussion with Solomons would always guarantee the apparition of an unpleasant headache. At first, you thought about forcing Kaiser to go, but he looked so happy you had not the heart to deprive him of his new furry brother, “Alright,” You finally resigned. Arms crossed, a moody pout plastered on your adorable angel face, you came back next to Alfie and kept your gaze fixed upon the dogs.

You both stayed there for a little while and surprisingly enough Alfie did not bother you that much. In fact, he was too busy looking at Cyril with a genuine sparkle of love in his eyes — for sure he had a close bond with his dog, as close as the one you shared with yours. Silence hovered above your heads until Cyril and Kaiser, delighted by the mansion’s vastness, ran to the most magnificent part of the garden to wrestle in it. The two adorable but massive beasts rolled in the flowers, their strong bodies crushing all of them and their jaws snatching the other plants.  Alfie and you opened your eyes wide and turned toward each other at the very same time, as you both realized that the dogs were wrecking Tommy’s garden. But when your eyes met, surprise faded away and a devilish smirk dawned on your lips.

“Well — that’s problematic, innit?” Alfie said, sarcasm coating his words, “We should stop them.” 

“Should we, though?” You replied.

Alfie took a last glance at the dogs, who were now ruining the only part of the garden that had been spared from their destructive paws.

“Naaah,” Alfie concluded.  

You snorted in amusement and shifted your focus back to the animals as Alfie did, for you were both like dogs with two tails at the simple fact of bothering Thomas Shelby. They said vengeance was a dish best served cold, but the truth was, for once, vengeance was a dish best served with mud and crushed flowers.

"Fuck Tommy," You said.

"Yeah, fuck Tommy."

✞ Any comment, review, reblog, or constructive criticism is welcome. Your reactions really motivate me and keep me alive, so please don't be shy. English is not my first language.

✞ Rose Solomons is @raincoffeeandfandoms ‘s OC

[enretrogue]

𝗔𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗟 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗙𝗜𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗦 (𝟭)

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

MCU

BUCKY BARNES

Bumblebee Series: 1 ⎢ 2 ⎢ 3 ⎢ 4 ⎢ 5 ⎢ 6 ⎢ 7 ⎢  — @angrythingstarlight .☘︎ ݁˖

Soft!Dark!Mafia!Bucky x Runaway Bride!Reader — @angrythingstarlight .☘︎ ݁˖

Peachy Sweet: 1 ⎢ 2 ⎢ 3 ⎢ 4 ⎢ 5 ⎢ 6 — @straywords .☘︎ ݁˖

FRANK CASTLE/THE PUNISHER

Apple Bottom Jeans (+Billy Russo) — @bubuslutty

#15 w/ Frank Castle — @bits-and-babs

Bambi With Fangs ⎢ 2 ⎢ 3 — @bubuslutty

Bring Me Home — @frvnkcastles

Bakery AU — @devils-dares

Love Language (+ Billy Russo) — @bubuslutty

Imagine #1,044 (+ Shane Walsh) — @komotionlessqueenmm

Primal — @darlingshane

Instagram AU — @amhrosina

You’re Everything I Never Knew I Needed — @lemon-world1

Cowboy!Frank — @rrestrella

Really Bad Week — @chvoswxtch

“Come here…Hey! I said come. Here.” — @bullet-prooflove

Sanctuary — @glossysoap

Biting Truth — @narcolini

Soft Morning Sex w/ Frank — @amhrosina

Cutesy Blurb — @thyme-in-a-bubble

Frank w/ An Inexperienced Reader — @amhrosina

STEVE ROGERS

His Inheritance: Chapter 26 ⎢ Chapter 27 — @jtargaryen18

FRANK CASTLE + MATT MURDOCK

Spelling Out “I Love You” — @amhrosina

Baking w/ Matty and Frankie — @chvoswxtch

An Unexpected Delight — @amhrosina

TWD

GLENN RHEE

CDC — @collecting-stories

Feel Me — @nikkisheep

Never Stopped Looking — @glennrheesworld

Sex w/ Glenn — @strgrlxox

PEAKY BLINDERS

LUCA CHANGRETTA

Busted — @mlmxreader

Our Scars — @arzennn

MICHAEL GRAY

Behind On That Cute Date ⎢ Chocolate Pie — @anonymooseforever007

ALFIE SOLOMONS

Airport Snow — @there-goes-thefighter

Angel of Birmingham — @darkdevasofdestruction

Quid Pro Quo — @scorpiussage

THOMAS SHELBY

Dragon’s Den — @pherelesytsia

Afternoon Shelby Chaos ⎢The Boys ⎢Dad!Tommy ⎢Mr. Giraffe — @teenwolf-theoriginals

Mama Bear — @dlmlufics

Arthur + Cards — @dlmlufics

Big Sister Bess — @dlmlufics

Escape to Me — @daisyblinder

GEN. PEAKY BLINDERS

The Proposal (Shelby!Reader) — @anonymooseforever007

TGM

COURT GENTRY/SIERRA SIX

Take a Nap Amidst the Storm — @lloydsbitch

Home — @welcome-to-my-multiverse

SIERRA SIX + LLOYD HANSEN

Ready for Destruction (Prologue) — @holylulusworld

STRANGER THINGS

JIM HOPPER

Handcuffed — @thisfanisgonesorry

Taking Control — @call-me-little-sunshine84

Workplace Gossip — @darling-i-read-it

Batch of Cookies — @sunnylands-world

Hopper x Sleepy!Reader — @ddejavvu

DBF!Hopper — @ddejavvu

Final Essay — @keerysteacake

Plain Old Man — @ddejavvu

Out of the Woods — @mypoisonedvine

DBF!Hopper — @empresskylo

[zablife]

I just got another idea from the previous request 🙈 this is the last one, I swear

Alfie's sister (who has a similar personality as her brother) is forced to work with John but for now, they just have to wait around. Sitting in silence and glaring at the other whenever they breathe too loud or something and there's also mocking, lots of bickering and tension™

Co-Workers (Partners in Crime AU)

John Shelby x Solomons sister reader

Author's Note: This is a continuation from this blurb, Afternoon Tea, which you might want to read first.

Alfie sat behind his desk glaring at you, fingertips pressed together firmly as Tommy paced the floor beside you and John. You hadn’t been in this much trouble since you insulted your tutor from the synagogue. 

“I’m afraid she’s beyond help, Mrs. Solomons,” the bitter old woman had told your mother and Alfie. “There’s something wicked about her,” she warned them as she backed away from you fearfully. You remembered laughing uproariously at her pronouncement until your mother boxed your ears and Alfie sent you to scrub the disgusting floors at the distillery.

When your mother died, your formal education ended and you began working with your brother because no one else would employ you. You'd often heard you were too "high spirited." The arrangement worked well until now with the Shelby meeting woefully mismanaged. However, that had not been your fault, as you tried to explain to Alfie upon your return. 

“Right, what’s this I hear about the two of you fucking up negotiations with childish games?” Alfie barked.

“Might want to ask him that question,” you said, jerking your chin in John’s direction. “I went for a business meeting and he was playing tea party. Teddy bear’s fucking picnic in a scrap metal yard," you added in a mocking tone.

John whipped around, jaw hanging open incredulously as he shot back, “Me? You were the one who refused to talk and agreed we should—” he stopped short, realizing he couldn’t admit what he'd been planning to do with you unless he wanted Alfie to leap across the desk and throttle him.

“Told ya he's a knob,” you whispered loudly to Alfie behind your hand. 

John turned around in his seat, pleading to Tommy. "She's fucking mental!"

"What did you call my sister?" Alfie said, slamming his fists against the desk.

"I called her what she bloody is!" John shouted.

“Oi! That’s enough,” Tommy interjected. Seeing this line of questioning was quickly devolving into chaos, he attempted to redirect everyone by proclaiming, “We’re here to discuss logistics.”

“You sure you want to do this, Tommy?” Alfie asked, scratching his beard. He looked between you and John, before casting his gaze back up at his business partner. 

“I hate to admit it, but they have certain skills we can use. Unless you think your sister isn’t fit for the job?,” Tommy asked, pulling his cigarette case from his jacket pocket and lighting a smoke. He cocked an eyebrow at Alfie in silent challenge.

“Didn’t say that, now did I?” Alfie grumbled, puffing out his chest. He was quite proud of the way you were able to operate in a man's world. However, it was John he didn’t trust. He’d heard bad things about Birmingham men and he wasn’t certain he wanted his younger sister in the company of one of their most notorious. With time running short for the heist they had planned, he didn’t have much of a choice though. Gritting his teeth, he agreed, “She’s ready if that animal brother of yours can keep his cock in his pants and his mind on the job.”

He glanced at you, sitting with your arms crossed over your chest, head turned away from John. He could read your thoughts and knew you were probably itching to use the flick knife concealed in your boot.

“John, think you can conduct yourself accordingly?” Tommy asked, clapping a hand over his brother’s shoulder. It sounded as though he was asking the two of you to play nicely which he was, but it wasn’t a request John had the luxury of denying. 

John cut his eyes at you, and nodded slowly as he chewed down hard on a toothpick before tossing it away. “Fine, just this once…but I’m never working with a bloody Cockney ever again,” he muttered.

—————————————————-

Six months later…

Despite the ill will, you and John had proved to be excellent partners. He knew guns and explosives and you were a master of disguise and theft. Alfie and Tommy rewarded you handsomely for your efforts which made the notion of working with each other again a bit more appealing. You were paired together more often and though you no longer complained to your brothers, there was plenty of bickering on the job. Tonight was no different as you devised a new plan to gain entry to the opulent home of one of Alfie’s rivals.

“Why isn’t the house empty, John? Didn't you create the diversion?” you asked in an exasperated voice. He had one job to do and he was only telling you now that he hadn’t done it. God, he was as inefficient as he was exasperating, you thought.

“Look, we’ll just have to use the servants’ entrance and keep quiet. You know everyone’s comings and goings. You watched the house, right?” John said, attempting to remain calm.

“You didn’t answer my question!” you said, demanding an explanation.

“I couldn’t set the bomb at the front. There were fucking coppers everywhere, Y/n!” John huffed. 

“Since when are you afraid of a little bird lime?” you teased, knowing he’d spent a week in jail the last time he’d used explosives. The occurrence had made him overly cautious now. John cut you a warning look as he exited the car and motioned for you to follow. 

“You know, if we’re gonna be out all night, the least you could have done is bake scones,” John goaded you, reaching inside his jacket pocket for his gun.

“I told you, I’m not a fucking baker!” you hissed back at him.

“See? Blowing your cover already,” he said shaking his head. “And you say I’m the stupid one.”

“Because you are! Stupidest bloke I’ve ever met…never use your loaf,” you complained, shaking your head. Raising your eyebrows accusingly you asked, “Did you remember to load the gun?”

“That was one time, Y/n!” John groaned. “We got so pissed beforehand, I think you were trying to get me killed,” he argued, famous temper flaring suddenly.

You rolled your eyes as you dug into your pocket for bullets. “Don’t throw a wobbly!” you chided as you loaded the chamber of your own gun. “We haven’t got time for that. Yeah, speaking of…let’s see your kettle and hob," you said, reaching toward his waistcoat.

John furrowed his brow as he grumbled, “You ever speak fucking English?” 

“You ever use your hands for anything but wanking? Give me your watch!” you demanded, pulling the chain from his side.

“That’s what that means?” he asked, scratching the back of his head.

“Half past, almost time,” you informed him. You ducked behind the bushes and waited, only to watch the maid stand at the back entrance smoking and leaning against the wall with a bored expression.

“Thought you said she left at half nine!” John confronted you angrily.

“She did every night last week! Erm…we’ll need her help then,” you reasoned, seeing no other way inside unless you had access to that door. “Make it worth her while, give her a cock and hen,” you suggested.

Only half listening to your suggestion, John grinned adjusting his cap, “Yeah, sort of my specialty. Glad you finally admit where my talents lie, sweetheart.”

“What? No, you daft prick! A tenner…go fucking bribe her!” you explained with a disgusted look.

John’s face turned red as he fished for his wallet. “I’m getting you a bloody dictionary for Christmas,” he mumbled as he ambled toward the girl.

“Save it for yourself, you ignorant twat!” you whispered after him, raising your middle finger into the darkness. He returned the gesture behind his back and you sighed, knowing you were in for a long evening. 

Part 3-Shots Fired

[theshelbyclan]

A Sisterly Bond

Summary: Ada and Teddy don’t have much in common, but that doesn’t mean that they couldn’t make a good team

A/N: I just felt like writing again, and for Ada and Teddy in particular. I always imagine them getting on better and better as Teddy gets older. She’s still young in this one, so it’s a rocky relationship still 😂 anyways, hope you enjoy to whoever still is reading my stuff!

Words: 2630

*****

“Teddy, would you be so kind as to give me my coat?”

“No.”

“For fuck’s sake,��� Ada sighed, “why do you always have to be difficult?”

“Am not,” Teddy grumbled.” I just don’t see why I have to be your lady’s maid, just because you’re my sister.”

“Ooh, there’s a big word!” the older sister replied sarcastically.

“Tommy says all fancy rich ladies have a lady’s maid.”

“ ‘Tommy says’…” Ada rolled her eyes and Teddy stuck out her tongue at her.

In many ways, Ada and Teddy were nothing alike. There was the age gap, of course, but they also just seemed to have very little in common. Ada didn’t care much for family business, while Teddy wanted to know everything about everything. Ada tried her best to live her own life without her brothers interfering at every turn, whereas Teddy wanted to be like her brothers in every way. Ada made an effort to never care too much, unlike Teddy, who cared so much and didn’t have a problem showing it. Also, Ada wanted to go out in her fancy coat and high heels, and Teddy wanted to run free in her brother’s trousers and shirt.

Polly watched the two sisters and followed Teddy with her eyes as she stormed out the door in a huff. She then turned to Ada and said, “Would it kill you to just say a kind word to her every now and then?”

Ada had her nose back in the papers and shrugged, “I don’t know, Pol. Would it kill her to practise some good manners?”

“You know what she’s like.”

“Oh, I do,” she sighed, “I remember when she was born and you told me how nice it would be for me to have another girl in the family. Instead we got… Teddy.”

———

Nine-year-old Teddy Shelby was walking through the muddy streets and pretended she was a pirate. With a stick in hand, she fought off the assailants only she could see and shouted out battle cries. But in the chaos of Small Heath, no one really noticed her. And if they did, they simply thought: there goes Teddy Shelby…

Her playing was suddenly interrupted though by her youngest brother. “Aunt Polly says she wants you to go with Ada!” Finn shouted out, as he ran towards her.

“Why?” she sighed, exasperated.

“I don’t know. She needs help carrying things from the market?”

Teddy kicked a rock, “Can’t you do it?”

Finn shrugged again, “It’s a woman’s job, isn’t it.”

“Oh fuck off!” As Finn pouted a little, she added, “Please can you go? Ada doesn’t even like me…”

If there was one thing Finn couldn’t stand, it was seeing his little sister upset, so he agreed. “You know, Arthur is always with John. Ada likes me, but you’re Tommy’s favourite.”

“I know.”

“So it’s not that bad, right?” Finn tried hopefully.

“I suppose not.” But Teddy couldn’t help but feel a little sadness over it.

———

“Aunt Pol says I’m to get you ready for church.”

“I am ready,” Teddy motioned to her dress, which she hated so intensely.

Ada sighed, “What have you done to your knees now? They look like you’ve become the chimney sweep’s latest apprentice.”

“Why do you always have to badger me?” Teddy called out, full of frustration.

“Just… clean your knees before Polly sees,” she waved a hand and put on a hat.

Teddy started scrubbing furiously at her legs. Ada watched her and decided that maybe she should make an effort. So she asked, “What do you think of this hat? Does is suit me?”

“I don’t know,” the little girl shrugged, “it stays on so I’m guessing it fits your head?”

“Bloody hell, I don’t know why I even bother. Let’s go.”

———

In the late afternoon sun, Tommy was talking to a man about a horse. Next to him, a small girl was following the conversation intensely, trying to learn as much from the interaction as she could.

“I’ll give you four for her, but no more.”

“Can’t do less than six, mister Shelby,” the man slapped her brother’s hand, “She’s a good horse, that one. Strong.”

“She’s no war horse and I could have fucking five of her for that price. Four and a half.”

“I have a family to feed, sir. Five?”

Tommy shook his hand and that was that.

After he’d left, Teddy looked up and, like she’d been in the business for twenty years, said, “She’s worth at least ten, Tommy.”

“Is she?” he took a drag on his cigarette, but inside felt like he could burst with pride. Then he lifted Teddy up and planted her up onto the horse, “Go on, tell me what she’s like.”

As Teddy rode around the yard, Ada joined her brother. With her usual air of indifference, she commented, “Well, if it isn’t the big brother and his pride and joy.”

“Hello, Ada…”

“Did she persuade you into spending more money once again?”

“Look at her,” Tommy pointed, “She might be the best rider in all of Small Heath.”

Ada raised her eyebrows and mumbled, “High praise…” In truth, Ada was impressed. She’d always been the odd one out in the family when it came to horses. She never much cared for them and riding them had always been more of a chore than a pleasure.

“Why don’t you tell her how good she looks up on that horse, eh?”

“Me? Why the hell would I tell her?”

Tommy locked eyes with Ada, “Because it’s you she wants to hear it from.”

She laughed a little at that, “No, Tommy, it’s you she wants to hear it from. Everything she wants to hear from you.”

As Ada walked off again, Tommy called after her, “She is your only sister, Ada.”

“And what a joy she is,” but it didn’t come out that sarcastic this time.

After a few more minutes or riding, Teddy hopped down from the horse again. Her brother asked her some questions about the horse and she answered to the best of her abilities. But in between, Teddy carefully asked, “Was that Ada?”

“Yes, just on her way home from the Bullring.”

“Did she watch me ride?” Teddy asked in a small voice.

Tommy observed her for a second, “Now, why do you ask that?”

She shrugged her shoulders and turned away to brush off the horse, “Just curious.”

———

Polly was a modern woman in many ways, but not in every way. She might’ve even been insulted if you called her that. So, when it was time for the spring cleaning of the house, she asked the girls to help. Well, she didn’t really ask.

“Ada, you start on sweeping and Teddy you can follow her with the bucket.”

Both girls rolled their eyes so hard it had to hurt and Polly couldn’t help but notice how in those few seconds, they looked exactly alike.

“I’ll be in the back with the washing,” their aunt continued, leaving no room for arguments.

Cigarette in hand, Ada started sweeping the floors at her own leisurely pace.

“Hurry up, will you?” Teddy grumbled, “I have to wait on you to mop and I do have other things to do, you know.”

“Oh? And what important appointments might you have, you strange little idiot?”

“Don’t call me an idiot!” Teddy stomped down het foot, “and hurry the fuck up!”

“Swear again and I’ll give you a slap!”

“Go on then!”

Ada huffed and swung her broom, aiming for her annoying sister. Teddy ducked and laughed, “You’re too slow.”

“Teddy…” she sighed, “I don’t want to do this either and I don’t have the energy to fight you as well. Just shut up and get this done.”

“Fine. Go on then, work, unless you’re afraid you’ll break a fucking nail or something.”

That earned Teddy a firm smack around the head. Angrily, she picked up her bucket and threw its contents in Ada’s direction, instantly soaking her sister.

“WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON IN HERE?!”

Aunt Polly came barging in the house after hearing Ada scream. Inside, she found a furious Teddy with one red cheek and an even more furious Ada, completely wet and dripping.

“I left you two alone for five fucking minutes,” she glared daggers, “and you can’t even behave for that long?”

Ada seemed to have found her composure again and grabbed another, dry, cigarette. “That’s what happens when you leave me with an actual fucking savage, Pol.”

“It’s not my fault! She started it!” Teddy fumed, “She called me an idiot and she does that all the time because she hates me!”

“Jesus Christ,” Polly lit a cigarette of her own, “Ada, go get changed and then you can continue the work outside. Teddy, you take over the sweeping. Probably my own fucking fault for thinking you could get along for half a day…”

With all the dignity she could muster in a soaked dress, Ada stalked off. Teddy picked up the broom and tried to avoid Polly’s eyes.

“I’ll have a word with her,” Polly said eventually, not without sympathy.

“Which is more than I’ll ever fucking have again,” Teddy spit.

“God,” Polly whispered to herself, “Why did you have to make them both so fucking stubborn?”

———

It was the evening after pay day, so all the pubs in Small Heath were filled to the brim. Normally, they didn’t serve women on their own, but Ada Shelby was the exception to the rule. Harry wouldn’t dare to refuse her.

“Here you go, Miss Shelby,” he said, as he handed her a drink.

She took it gratefully and went to sit down. The truth was, she was hoping to catch a glimpse of Freddie Thorne, but he hadn’t been in yet.

After fifteen minutes, she wanted another one and made her way over to the bar again. But the place was packed and it took too long for her liking. So, Ada went behind the bar and poured her own drink. Teddy watched her and smirked slightly. Deep down, she did admire her sister, simply because she wasn’t impressed by anything or anyone really.

At the same time, an older gentlemen strolled into the Garrison. He was dressed differently, looked like money, and had the confidence to match. Short as he was, he made up for it in attitude. Teddy didn’t know him and eyed him carefully.

Then he spotted Ada and made his way over. Leaning on the bar, he started talking to her, but Teddy couldn’t hear. She stood up and walked a little closer, while remaining invisible in the crowd.

“Come on, sweetheart, pretty girl like you all alone without a man?”

“Who says I am?” Ada shrugged, and Teddy could tell she was uncomfortable.

He smiled at her without humour, “How about I take you for a good time. You don’t want to be difficult, do you?”

Teddy frowned and felt the urge to spit at him. But instead she noticed how he was standing up on the little ledge of the bar, just a few inches off the ground. Cockily, he balanced on one leg, presumably to make up for the inches he lacked.

So the little girl grinned and just as he was telling Ada about all the things he had and could offer her, Teddy walked up to him and kicked him in the back of his knees. At once, he lost his balance and his legs buckled. And in one swift motion, he collapsed onto the bar and then fell flat on his arse.

The pub erupted in laughter.

Teddy joined in, but only got to celebrate her triumph for a few seconds. The man became furious and grabbed her, raising his hand to strike her. But before he could, Ada had grabbed a bottle and smashed it over his head. Afterwards, she calmly brushed the glass off her own coat and bit, “Now, piss off.”

“Yeah!” Teddy added, “Piss off!”

Ada looked down at her and grabbed her hand. She didn’t feel like waiting for what was to happen next, so she marched her little sister out of the pub.

Outside, neither said a word for a long time. Eventually, Ada was the first one to speak, “Would you mind explain what the bloody hell that was?”

Teddy shrugged, a little winded from having to run after Ada in her four inch heels, “I thought he was a bad man, so I didn’t want him to talk to you.”

Ada looked down at her strange little sister and felt a sudden surge of love for her, “He was a bad man. And I didn’t want him to talk to me.”

“Why?”

“Teddy… there are some good men out there…”

“Are there?”

“…but most of them are just bastards.”

Teddy pondered on that for a second, “How do you know which one is the not-bastard?”

Ada smiled, “Well, apparently, you already do. This one was not one of them.”

“So, you’re not mad at me for kicking him?” She tried carefully.

“Mad?” She laughed, “I thought it was bloody brilliant!”

Teddy smiled back up at Ada, beaming with pride.

“Thank you, Teddy, because for a moment, I did get scared.”

“I can come with you all the time, if you like!” her little sister quipped happily, “Keep watch for you?”

“That won’t be necessary, sweetheart, but I appreciate the offer.”

Casting her eyes down again, “Yeah, I know you don’t want me around…”

And quite abruptly, Ada stopped her in the streets, “Now wait a second, you strange little…” she quickly swallowed her words, “Teddy. Just because I don’t always like you, doesn’t mean I don’t love you. Do you understand?”

“No. That doesn’t make any sense.”

“Maybe not,” Ada marched on again and Teddy once again struggled to keep up, “but it will as soon as you find your own not-bastard!”

Teddy looked a little too pensive for Ada’s liking, so she said in her version of being comforting, “I’ll look out for you too and kick any man that gets to close, don’t worry.”

“What happened to you two?” Polly demanded, as her two nieces walked through the door.

“Nothing,” they both replied in unison.

Thomas looked from one to the other, “Tell me what happened.”

“We told you, Thomas, nothing happened,” Ada replied airily, while taking off her gloves.

“Teddy, you fucking tell me now.”

But even Teddy didn’t crumble under her brother’s piercing eyes this time. Instead, she looked up to Ada and said, “It’s nothing, Tommy. Just women’s business. Nothing for you to worry about.” She was now directly quoting her other female role model and Polly had no choice but to bend her head to hide her smile.

Ada smiled back at Teddy and left the room, with her little sister in tow.

“What the fuck was that?” Tommy sighed.

Polly replied, not without some smugness, “I believe that was a sisterly bond in action.”

“Should I be worried?”

“Yes.”

“Fucking hell,” he breathed, as he lit another cigarette.

Polly turned around to continue her work, “You’re outnumbered now, Thomas!”

Tommy tried to make a dismissive hand gesture, “There’s four of us, only two of them.”

“Yes, but they’re women, sweetheart, and women count for at least two men. Besides, they’re together now.”

This was all too much for the great leader of the Peaky Blinders to understand. There were some things, ‘women’s business’ as Teddy so elegantly had put it, that he tried to steer clear of. Still, he felt a pang of sadness over his little sister growing up. Maybe he was losing her.

“You won’t,” his aunt read his mind, “but you can’t protect her forever either.”

“If I can’t, who will?”

Polly smiled gently, “We will.”

*****

Masterlist

[runnning-outof-time]

K’s Reading List — JUNE

Hey there! Thanks for stumbling upon this reading list! I figured that as a way to support the lovely writers within this fandom that I’d compile a reading list of all of the stories I read over each month.

June was a wonderful month filled with incredible stories. Below is the list of stories that I read. I hope you will find some that you like as well!

As always, please make sure you heed to the warnings on each fic!!

🌸 - denotes a story written for my 3K follower celebration — check it out here!

@raincoffeeandfandoms

The Case of the Missing Blogger - Luca Changretta (on-going series)

A taste of the forbidden - John Shelby x Reader blurb

Far across the distance (part 2) - Alfie Solomons x Reader (Titanic AU)

Bed is not always the best place - John Shelby x Reader blurb

What will never be - Tommy Shelby x Reader

Not Yet - Tommy Shelby x Reader blurb

Rose - Alfie Solomons x OC

Not Real - Alfie Solomons x Reader blurb

@fallatyourfeet

Chasing Smiles - Tommy Shelby x Reader — 🌸

Swanky Suits - Arthur Shelby x Reader

@zablife

Shots Fired - John Shelby x Reader blurb

The Runaway - John Shelby x Reader blurb

I’m Listening - Tommy Shelby x Reader blurb

Charlie’s Lullaby - Tommy Shelby x OC

@lis-likes-fics

Dark, Dirty Secrets - Tommy Shelby x Reader — contains several 🔞 NSFW/dark themes — read warnings and author’s note!

@sneakyblinders

supersitition (part 2) - Modern!Tommy Shelby x OC — contains some 🔞 mature themes! (on-going series)

@dearshelby

Start over - Tommy Shelby x Reader — 🌸

Shelby Marriages - Tommy Shelby x Reader — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

@gypsy-girl-08

Blind Date - Modern!Tommy Shelby x Reader (on-going series) — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

Dangerously In Love - Modern!Tommy Shelby x Reader (on-going series) — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

@peakyswritings

Lilith - Arthur Shelby x Reader

Gilded Prison - Tommy Shelby x Reader — 🌸

Him and I - John Shelby x Reader

@shelbydelrey

Stranger - Tommy Shelby x Reader

Soft - Tommy Shelby x Reader

Reminisce - May Carleton x Reader

Not that Kind of Person - May Carleton x Reader

@jomarch-wannabe

What’s going on? - Tommy Shelby x Reader blurb

Just need you - Tommy Shelby x Reader

@look-at-the-soul

The one - Modern!Tommy Shelby x Reader

My refuge - Tommy Shelby x Daughter!Reader — 🌸

@teenwolf-theoriginals

mr giraffe - Tommy Shelby x Reader

the boys - Tommy Shelby x Reader

evening shelby chaos - Tommy Shelby x Reader — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

good girl - Tommy Shelby x Reader — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

@holacia3

Bicker all the way - Modern!Tommy Shelby x Reader

Last year’s secret - Modern!Tommy Shelby x Reader — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

@acewritesfics

Uncovering Truths - Jay Halstead x OC (on-going series)

Midnight Kiss - Tommy Shelby x Reader blurb — 🌸

@peakyltd

A Sunny Afternoon - Tommy Shelby x Reader blurb

Nothing but you - John Shelby x Reader

@brummiereader

Killing Me Softly - Tommy Shelby x Reader (on-going series) — contains dark themes!

@little-diable

Tangled Faith - Tommy Shelby x Reader (on-going mini series) — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

Fine and Mellow - Tommy Shelby x Reader — contains 🔞 NSFW themes!

@evita-shelby

In the bleak midwinter - Tommy Shelby blurb

Broken hearts all around - Luca Changretta blurb

@noforkingclue

Tommy Shelby blurb

@padfootdaredmetoo

Allergies - Dad!Tommy Shelby (paired with Lizzie)

@there-goes-thefighter

Minutes to Midnight - Tommy Shelby (on-going series)

@peakbys

Homecoming - Tommy Shelby x Reader , Arthur Shelby x Reader (on-going series)

@call-sign-shark

It’s Not Hell…If You Like the Way It Burns - Tommy Shelby x Reader blurb — contains slight 🔞 themes!

What If Heaven Would Have Been With Someone Else? - Shelby Brothers x OC blurbs

@emotionalcadaver

Thunder - Tommy Shelby x OC

[wisteriaandwafers]

I’m making another one

(Part 1) - because there’s a tagging limit

It’s because of the fact that I’ve read some really good fluff recently and everyone else should as well. Also exam procrastination as always

Some parent ones in Tommy section, but most of the rest are mutual pining, best friends, cute misunderstandings working themselves out, Early relationship things, and shenanigans

Peaky blinders but it’s really just Tommy

Keep us safe by @zablife

The resolution was like taking a deep breath

Tachipen and two Shelby men

Swimming lessons by @vintunnavaa

This one in particular I read and reread a lot and I can’t exactly pinpoint why I love it so much

gentle love, who you love

Drabble by @acewritesfics, a daughters return

They happen to both be cute kid fics

Well, what about the Dog by @runnning-outof-time

I’m a big fan of when Tommy’s wife doesn’t give him a choice regarding domestic things. It’s very fun for me

The silver lining

well spoken by @notyour-valentine

This man and finding himself around intelligent women 🤝

Under his Eye by @queenshelby

This one creeps me out a bit because HT creeps me out but I so want to know what happens next

Lurking in the shadows by @pherelesytsia

This one is a very cute Halloween fic

It was an accident by @kiki0005

The aftermath of the accident is cute and funny

Afternoon Shelby Chaos by @teenwolf-theoriginals

This whole collection based on this family is very locute. They’re so loving and 🥰

A friend literally said to me years ago, every time I open your phone you’re reading Bucky fics, and it’s still true:

Well not so much anymore but I still read:

Blurb by @angrythingstarlight

Because bee is the cutest baby ever

Valentine by @softlyspector

Pining and hesitant action is my jam in fics

Though I have never read it by @tuiccim

It’s ongoing but I’m really enjoying it

All wrapped up by @jobean12-blog

It’s a Chrismatime fic and it’s adorable!

I like you a latte by @moonstruckbucky

It’s a coffee shop au what more do you need

Easy by @jadedvibes

It’s the cute beginnings of a relationship and they’re being all sweet and learning each other

Bribe the super by @real-jane

There’s a heat wave, there’s an entangled friend group, and they both sort of stalk each other with help from a store owner.

When morning comes by @pellucid-constellations

Besties at different points but they try and remain connected at heart and 😍

These one are Steve fics:

Mini matchmaker by @avengerofyourheart

Christmas cute kid fic

First date by @navybrat817

They go on a cute date and deal with a mini, kind of funny misunderstanding

My favourite what if part 2 by @imhereforbvcky

There’s drunk coffee, gardening, Sarah Rogers, and forever in love besties

Pick Her poison

Coffee shop meet cute

Then of course because I am a child of this millennium, some TASM! Peter as well, not all, but most:

Zoo blurb by @webslingingslasher

Honestly, I’m not sure which Peter this is but it’s cute

I swear I don’t know who that man is

Tarrent is indeed a character and the whole thing is a journey

Like me, like you by @privateanxieties

I don’t know why I enjoy body switch stories but I do And I am anxiously awaiting the finale

Shampoo and heartbreak. Apple stem

Pairing by @spider-stark

It’s a case of shenanigans stemming from pining and I’m a fan

Bloody love by @parkerpeter24

This one is kinda sad

Daughters will love like you do by @waitimcomingtoo

Babysitter!peter helps everyone

Some light voyeurism

This one by @forever-rogue

Spidey identity and anxiety fueled decisions. It all works out very nicely

Meet cute. By @helplesslyinlovewithcharacters

Meet cute and is very cute

You ain’t nothing by @withahappyrefrain

Actually just read all her Peter stuff. The mob!peter au 🥰 like this one

Forest scenario by @vendettaparker

Text message fic

Webbed troubles by @curseofaphrodite

They’re both so stupid and I love it !!!

Hey babe I love you by @oracleofapollon

It’s best friends to lovers

Stranger things, but it’s really just Steve + Eddie fics

Baby by @cosmal

It’s so cute

Crush by @call-me-eds

There’s a misunderstanding but it’s not what you think

Wayne’s world by @queenimmadolla

A sudden birth I cried so much

It’s a date by @luveline

And no, he does not stop staring even after the date

Waiting for forgiveness by @iveseenstrangerthings

There’s a party, there’s a misunderstanding, they’re besties

Secrets out by @steddielvr

Well that kid can’t keep his mouth shut

Best friends and cosmos by @taylorbrooke1230

I like those you’re just noticing!? Moments

Safe space by @chervbs

So 🥰

Tied with a bow by @angrymilfs

There’s Flowers and cuteness

This one by @plainemmanem

They’re coworkers this time and someone is smitten

Nothing compares by @imamotherfuckingstar-lord

Later life and smiles

Oops I love you by @earthgirl616

Just best friends they say

Then all the others that I can’t categorize but still love and cherish :

Horacio Carillo

This blurb by @tropes-and-tales

Alone for the holidays, love struck

Just like always by @drabbles-mc

Din djarin

Significant by @softlyspector

This one is a case of I don’t even go here. But I just about die for mutual pining and this one has it

Andy barber

What Andy wants by @theycallmebecca

I like this one. One person not realizing what everyone else sees clearly. 

Matt Murdock

You what? By @babyboiboyega

Coffee shop woes by @courtforshort15

F1 imagine

Forgive me, what? By @lovingperfectionsblog

[chaosresponcibly]

How I think each of the s1 and s2 Empires characters would react to seeing each other.

False is kinda terrified of Pearl, but overall thinks she's cool. Pearl wants False to be her new sparring buddy (like, the woman built a machine to murder giant hunks of metal and wears clothes she pilfered from a corpse, of course Pearl would love her). False doesnt understand that this is a statement of affection and is even more terrified.

The Scotts are just the 'Misery and CPR' meme. Elf Scott keeps talking about his demon brother and tragic backstoryTM, and the Chromia king just goes "oh yea a magic skull stole my eyeball and a wizard gave me a new one.' Eventually they start talking about their bfs and become friends ('my husband rescued me from a dungeon so I built him a cave full of his favorite things' 'nice. My boyfriend just shows up randomly and gives me wood').

The Jimmys absolutely confuse the hell out of each other. The Codfather just off-handedly talks about his traumatic past in between bouts of how awesome his sister and brother-in-law are. He's a god and totally unbothered by it, while the Sheriff keeps grumbling about God calling him a toy when he is Not A Toy. They introduce each other to the other Norman.

The Sausages just point at each other like the spiderman meme. They joke about their trauma while still smiling. They coo over Bubbles together. The protector of Sanctuary talks about Eddie and Hermes. The king of Mythland talks about his little siblings and how much he loves them; he also mentions his best friend who sounds suspiciously similar to the sunflower goddess...

The Joels HATE each other. God Joel keeps making fun of the Mad King for being short and made of clay and he just laughs his ass off, doesnt acknowledge him, and rants about how amazing his fish wife is. God Joel feels insecure and angry, the Mad King is offended because someone is ignore how AMAZING AND WONDERFUL his wife is.

The Pixls have a wonderful afternoon drinking and spilling tea. They discuss philosphy and history, they lovingly make fun of Jimmy, they compliment each other's empires.

Shrub and Shelby are instant friends. Shrub is kinda scared of Shelby because witches could mean bad news, but Shelby instantly introduces Tortoise and all goes well. They talk about their different magic, Shelby gives a whole bundle of potions to the wolves. They talk about how cute Katherine is and mom-friend Joey.

The Joeys respect each other. They arent that close, but they think each other are cool. They fight over if Katherine or Xornoth is better; neither wins but they have fun coming up with compliments for the people they like (they also talk as if said objects of affection love them back).

The Katherines go monster hunting together. Overgrown Katherine talks about her awesome gnome gf. Glimmer Grove Katherine complains about her suitor that cant seem to understand that she isnt a pirate.

At first, the fWhips bond over chaos and destruction. 'I put wardens in half the server's bases to thank them for coming to my wedding' 'I created a ravine.' All goes well until Jimmy gets brought up. Count fWhip complains about the whole 'board of dead salmon' thing, and Goblin fWhip jumps to his defense. They get into a big ol fight and make up a little while later.

The Gems, while amicable, dont really like each other. Wizard Gem thinks Princess Gem's a scardy cat, and Princess Gem thinks Wizard Gem is too intense and a little scary. They do have fun talking about fWhip and Sausage though.

Mayor Lizzie is both a little intimidated by the ocean enpress, and also thinks she's super cool. She's an actual strong, tall, powerful god (unlike the one from Stratos). She is a little scary, though, cause of the army of axolotls and the whole water thing. The ocean empress thinks she's nice (and kinda funny); Mayor Lizzie really reminds her of her friend with his empire of cats before he got corrupted...

[ijustwant2write]

'This was supposed to be different.'-Finn Shelby x Reader

(GIF credit to @siriuslyshewrote)

MASTERLIST

Requested by anonymous: 'Hi! If you are taking requests can I ask for Finn Shelby and numbers 13, 18 and 19 from the prompt list? My mind went from wanting something romantic to let's create chaos with Finn and try and fail to hide it from his family lol'

Characters: Finn Shelby x Reader, mentions of Shelby family

Meanings: (Y/N)=Your name

(Y/L/N)=Your last name

Warnings: Swearing, arguing, fluff

13) Well, this is romantic

18) Everyone is staring

19) They definitely heard us

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

(Y/N) held back a sigh as she felt another large drop of water hit her head, shivering in the cold despite being wrapped up in a coat and having her boyfriend's arms around her. She didn't want to upset Finn, he had tried really heard, but she just wasn't having a good time.

"Well, this romantic." (Y/N) tried to lighten the mood.

"I'm sorry, I didn't even think about the weather."

Finn had showed up at (Y/N)'s door that morning, having planned a spontaneous picnic date. She had been delighted, he was so cute with his basket of food and blanket wrapped under his arm. But only minutes after they found a spot, settling down and digging into the sandwiches, the rain started to pour. They haphazardly picked up the blanket with the food and basket inside, running for the shelter of the trees, which wasn't doing much in keeping them dry.

"Finn, I don't think the rain is going to stop."

"It might. Let's give it another five minutes."

"You said that fifteen minutes ago."

"Do you want to go home?"

She nodded."I appreciate this my love, but I don't think we should stay out in the rain, we'll get cold."

She didn't like seeing how down he was about this. It wasn't his fault that the rain came, he just hadn't thought to check the weather. (Y/N) smiled up at him, pulling his face towards hers by the back of his neck, and kissing him. She was happy to see him smile back, standing up and offering a hand out to him before they ran back to the car.

It was almost as if the weather was mocking the couple, because when they returned to Small Heath the sun was shining. Finn whined and moaned, making his girlfriend laugh. Instead of heading home, Finn took a sharp turn, making (Y/N) grab onto the inside of the car. She had no idea where he was going, he wouldn't tell her. He parked up by the side of the road by a field, getting out without a word.

"And what are we doing now?" (Y/N) asked as he opened her door.

"Well, we need to finish our picnic."

"I suppose we do. You know what, Finn?"

"What?"

"You really are a hopeless romantic."

Luckily the couple were able to spend the rest of the afternoon finishing their food in the sun. They were so incredibly loved up, and although you could say it was young love, there was definitely a slither of maturity in them both that reflected off of each other. They both found that they had been thinking more about their futures since they decided to become serious. Of course both had though about marriage, what sort of house they might want to live in, basic ideas of their future, but that was before they had each other. The couple had been so giddy and bashful the first time they spoke about the topic of their possible future; the idea of being with each other everyday was very exciting.

The only problem was that the rest of the Shelby's didn't actually know about (Y/N). This had nothing to do with Finn being ashamed of her, or wanting to hide what they had. They never asked for one, they never even asked Finn how his day was. And when he finally tried to speak up about it, his family only spat back at him, saying to marry a woman who didn't like the life, or tease about how he was still a virgin and was making this up to make them think otherwise. He stopped trying, he was happy with his relationship as it was, why let his family ruin it?

(Y/N) had been hurt at first, for quite a while actually. She thought Finn was lying. Her friends had always said about how much boys lie just so they could have their way with you. But Finn wouldn't be taking her out on dates, getting her presents or simply just talking to each other if he wanted a quick shag. He was a Shelby, it was easy for him. And that was another thing that worried (Y/N). If the family didn't like her, and Finn chose them over her, he could easily have another girl on his arm within a day. She didn't voice her opinion a lot (which she should have done), she knew it was hard being part of the Shelby family. However, her love for him was indescribable, (Y/N) had had silly crushes in the past, been out with a few boys but she never felt the way she did about Finn with any of them.

After Finn dropped (Y/N) home, the hardest part of any day, his whole demeanor changed. He didn't want to see his moody family after such a pleasant day. He also wished he could boast about his gorgeous girlfriend. They would love her if they gave (Y/N) the chance.

"Where have you been?" Polly asked as soon as he stepped through the door.

Finn sighed as he took off his coat and hat."Out with my mates."

"A likely story. Come on, your brothers are waiting."ct4

Of course they were, it was no doubt a family meeting. He slumped towards the front room, falling back into the spare spot on the sofa.

"Here he is, fucking finally." Arthur bellowed.

"No one told me there was a meeting."

"You weren't even nearby, no one could find you. Where were you?"

"I just told Pol, I was with my friends."

Tommy huffed."It doesn't matter where he's been. Let's get on with it."

As they began the meeting, Finn could feel and the doom and gloom seeping into himself. It was so depressing here sometimes. He knew he should he grateful for what his brothers provided them with but it didn't come without danger. If he wasn't so sure (Y/N) could handle herself (and his family) he wouldn't have started dating her. He realised he had to keep her safe, teach her a few things about self defence, which he had prayed wouldn't scare her off.

"Whatever girl you're seeing, forget about her." Polly told Finn after the meeting.

Not this again.

"Why don't any of you ever believe what I say?"

"Because your smile wiped off your face as soon as you stepped into the house. And you don't smile like that around your 'mates'."

"Alright, so if I have a girl, why should I do what you say? What if we're happy together?"

"She likes being with a Shelby, it's the name, Finn."

"So no one will like me for me, right?"

"No, Finn I didn't mean-"

Finn brushed past her and headed upstairs."Night Pol."

He was restless that night, tossing and turning but finding no peace. He felt slightly bad for how he spoke to his aunt, but she could sometimes be just as bad as the others. All he wanted to do was see (Y/N), then he would be at comfort.

Finn wouldn't have to wait as long as he thought. The next morning he was alone in the house until someone knocked on the door. Not a lot of people would have the nerve to knock on a Shelby's door, making him cautious. When he slowly opened the door to see (Y/N) he was both surprised and ecstatic to see her.

"What are you doing here love?" he asked with a grin on his face.

"If you weren't smiling, I would have been offended at that question."

"Sorry, but you know you shouldn't have come without telling me."

It had become a rule to not meet at Finn's house, in case his family saw her before him and scared her off, or were just plain rude to her.

"Well, I had to return this." she held up his pocket watch."Found in beside mum's flower bed."

Finn took it from her, he hadn't even realised he lost it."Oh, thanks. What would I do without you?"

He leaned down to peck her on the lips, noticing her smile dropped slightly when they pulled away.

"(Y/N), what's wrong? I know when you're sad."

"I just wanted to talk to you about something."

"Fuck, you're not pregnant are you?"

"No! Can I please come inside?"

Finn glanced behind him, despite no one else being home. They wouldn't be back for a few hours, he was safe. Standing back, he gestured for her to step inside, watching as she looked around the place. She had never seen the inside of Finn's house before, trying to take it all in, in case the opportunity never came again.

"So, what did you want to talk about?" Finn asked as they sat down in the front room.

She saw him clutching at the watch, bouncing his knee. He was nervous.

"I've just been thinking about a lot of things to do with us."

Shit, was his worst fear coming true?

"Us? Has my family said something to you?"

"No, and that's the problem."

"What?"

"Finn, we've been together for a while now. And I understand I've not properly met your family due to some circumstances, but it's not normal."

"My family aren't normal."

"And I understand that, but...I feel like you're trying to hint at something."

"If you're on about me not wanting you around anymore then you're completely wrong. I don't want to subject you to their nastiness. They literally don't give two shits about me anymore, so they won't care about you. I'm sorry (Y/N), that's just the way my fucked up family is."

"Maybe if we show them how serious we are, talk about our plans, they might listen. They'll see you as a grown up."

"And if they're not? If they don't care about us and are disrespectful to you?"

"I don't care. We have to at least try."

Finn ran a hand down his face, contemplating what she was saying. He knew what she meant, it wasn't fair that he was hiding her away. It wasn't fair that he had met her family and spent time with them and not even attempted to introduce her. He was just so scared of losing her, he could see his family ruining it all for him.

"I...I don't know (Y/N)."

She stood out of frustration, raising her voice."Why not? How would you feel if I hid you away from my family? I always have to lie when people ask have I met the famous Shelby family. My parents think I've met them too. I didn't want them to get angry with you. But now, it's starting to get to me, I just don't think it's fair."

"You know the situation I'm in. And you've also got to think, do you really want this? Do you want to be stuck with a disfunctional family that are a ruthless gang, with enemies everywhere they step?"

"Yes! Because I have you, Finn! If I didn't love you so much then I would have left a long time ago!"

Finn heard all too familiar voice outside, panic instantly setting it. Without a word, he grabbed (Y/N)'s hand, pulling her upstairs. She almost toppled over as she struggled to keep up with his long legs, stumbling through to Finn's bedroom. He closed the door, not slamming in as to not alert his family. He was breathing heavily, listening to his family walking into the house, muffled voices telling him there were multiple people inside.

"What the hell Finn? You're literally hiding me away from your family!"

"It's a lot to think about!" he harshly whispered.

"Finn, if you loved me then none of this would matter. I understand you're hesitant to tell your family-"

"Well clearly you don't understand, because you wouldn't keep nagging me about it."

"Nagging you? Nagging you?! I'm asking for a simple thing Finn. If we're going to have the future together that we planned, I'll have to meet them at some point."

"We'll just leave, we won't see them. It's not like they'll care."

"I can't make you do that Finn, as sweet as that is. I don't want to run from them. I want them to be part of our lives."

"You might change your mind after you meet them."

"So I will be meeting them?"

"That's all you took from that?"

"I'm actually getting angry Finn, I don't want us to argue."

"What have we been doing for the last ten minutes?"

"What if I told them myself? What if I go down there right now? And you can tell everyone how I'm just a girl you're sleeping with, you can make up a lie because that's what you would do. You wouldn't even admit it!"

"I would never say that about you!"

"I'm going home, Finn. I'll talk to you when you remember I'm your girlfriend who you're supposed to love."

Finn immediately blocked the door. (Y/N) huffed, frowning at him.

"You're not just my girlfriend now."

"What?"

Finn made a beeline for his bedside table, angrily opening the drawer and taking something out of it. (Y/N) couldn't see what it was as he had his back to her. She watched as he took a deep breath, shoulders relaxing slightly before he turned around.

"This was supposed to be different. I know I've been a shit boyfriend. I know you're upset about not meeting my family. I am not ashamed of you, I couldn't be prouder of you and I love to show you off. You're gorgeous, you're perfect, I'm incredibly lucky to be able to call you mine. Not only that, but you're so caring, you look after me, even after I come in after a stupid gun fight which I never tell you about, but that will change. I need to let you into my life more, you deserve to know what's happening. And I'm sorry for making you upset, you have every right to be mad at me. I want to change all that, and to prove my love for you," he lowered down onto one knee, producing a ring box from behind his back, opening it to reveal the engagement ring (Y/N) had desired,"I need to ask you something. (Y/N) (Y/L/N), will you marry me?"

(Y/N) had started crying as soon as he got down on one knee, overwhelmed with happiness. She was in hysterics as she screamed 'yes' over and over, jumping up and down. He laughed as he slipped the ring on her finger, scooping her up into his arms. They hugged tightly, kissing each other multiple times and passionately. After a few minutes, he set her back down, sharing one last kiss.

"They definitely heard us." (Y/N) giggled.

"They definitely heard you."

They were both correct when they heard movement downstairs, soon after footsteps coming upstairs. Finn sighed, he had to face them now.

"Finn," it was Tommy,"finish off with the girl, pay her dues and send her on her way."

Finn was instantly fuming at his brother's words. How dare he talk about (Y/N) in that way?! Without thinking, he threw open the door, Polly was also there.

"Don't talk about (Y/N) like that ever again! She is not a whore, she is not having sex with me for money. (Y/N) is my fiance, and I am going to marry her. No, she's not pregnant, I've proposed because I want to spend the rest of my life with her. So she's going to be a Shelby, and you're going to give her the respect she deserves. "

Polly glanced back at the young girl, looking her up and down. She had to admit, the girl wasn't backing down. She was looking strong, and not intimidated.

"Are you fucking serious?" Tommy mumbled.

"Yes. Meet (Y/N) (Y/L/N), soon to be (Y/N) Shelby, your sister-in-law."

"Whatever. Bring her downstairs."

Tommy turned around, Polly following after him, but not without another glance at the couple.

(Y/N) had appreciated Finn sticking up for her. It was so sweet, he had proven his love, though not exactly in the way they wanted; but they realised it didn't really matter how he proposed, they just wanted to be together and that was enough.

"Shit, am I really going down there to meet them?" (Y/N) suddenly grew nervous.

"You had some big balls earlier, backing out now?" Finn teased.

"Stop, this is serious."

"I'll be beside you the whole time. You're my girl, you always will be."

Finn kept a tight hold of her hand as they made their way downstairs. He could feel her hands getting clammy, quickly placing a kiss on the back of it. He knew she would be fine, she was strong, but her being nervous meant she cared.

As they entered the front room, they saw Thomas, Polly, Arthur and John. God, it was all of them. They sat on the only sofa available.

"Everyone is staring." (Y/N) subtly whispered.

"Let them. You're a fucking Shelby now, you're family and you're mine."

[call-sign-shark]

Loose Cannon|| Arthur Shelby x Reader

Summary: The heatwave continues and you have an excellent --and illegal -- idea to refresh yourself... To Arthur's greatest despair. But let's be honest, your antics only make him fall harder for you || . Modern!Peaky AU Loose Cannon

Words: 4.2k

TW: language, mutual pinning, unresolved sexual tension, idiots in love, physical description of the MC, quick allusion to child abuse, no proofreading we die like John.

Notes: Each part is individual and can be read as one-shots in no particular order.

“I FUCKING HATE YOU!” A painful moan escaped from your quivering lips, your voice rendered croaky by all the effort. If your heart could break free from your ribcage it would have done it already but yet he was, drumming and agonizing in a prison of bones.

“Shut up and take it.” A low growl underlined by a light tremor of fatigue replied to you, its owner wiping the sweat from his eyes with the back of his hand as he kept on moving increasingly faster. The cacophony of his pulse hammering in his temples almost covered your complaints but, unfortunately for him, it wasn’t enough, and still heard you scream at him. Arthur should have known that you wouldn’t be docile.

“You’re torturing me!! I’ll sue you, Arthur Shelby!” Forced to pause between each word, you tried your best not to faint well aware that the soldier had no pity for you. He would continue what he was doing whether minding your consciousness. Why would he while you were the one who asked for it? All you wanted was for him to stop and yet he remained criminally deaf to all your supplications, “I can’t… I can’t anymore.” Your voice cracked.

“You wanted to do this with me so now yer going to assume your choice. Faster ey.” He ordered through gritted teeth, and the gravel in his voice made you crumble from inside.

“ It— It hurts. My legs are fucking shaking! Please stop! St—” You were about to keep whining when all came to a quite brutal halt. Indeed, this confusing chaos ended up with your face suddenly bumping against the soldier's chest. “Aouch!” You exclaimed, pushing yourself from him and ready to excoriate the fucker. “Couldn't you fucking warn me, bastard” You brought your hand to your nose and rubbed the pain away, your furious eyes shooting him a murderous look.

“And can’t ye stop fookin’ complaining? I told you that each afternoon I go for a run with Hannibal. You’ve spent all the morning begging to come with me and now that you’re here, ye do nothing but whine like a fookin' kid.” As Arthur lashed out his frustration on you, his chest rose and fell quickly for his lungs had troubled to understand he wasn’t running anymore. And despite his erratic breathing he still found enough air to scold you. Usually, you wouldn’t have minded his explosive anger but a particularly harsh night of nightmares and insomnia had turned you a bit overemotional today. While holding a bit of truth, his words still vexed you which resulted in you fleeing his eyes and crossing your arms on your tight chest.

“You don’t understand.” You mumbled, nervously chewing the inside of your cheek as your brain processed with forming a kind of explanation to offer him.

“And now she's sulking!” Arthur roared and rolled his eyes, losing the remnant of patience he had left. “Yer a fookin’ pain in the ass, that’s what you are ay. Go home if ye too tired to keep running, but I ain’t gonna change me habits for you.” An arrow through the heart would have been less painful. Your lips parted, willing to speak, but not a single coherent thing came out. You stuttered a very brief while before definitely giving up and the only thing you knew: being insolent.

“That’s not what I asked for!” You exclaimed, fists closed tights and blood boiling in your veins. Obviously, the corrosive effects of anger didn’t help. “You’re a bloody idiot, that’s all you are ay!” If there was one thing positive about this whole scene it was your perfect imitation of him.

“So what the fook d’ya want?!” His hoarse voice resounded so loud in the park that a few passersby couldn’t help but glance at you with curiosity. Lacking proper words, you ended up stomping your feet and screaming with frustration, hands pulling your own hair. The noises, the images, the smells in your head… They were all too much. Caught in a whirlwind of panic and anger, you would have given everything to be able to calmly explain that all you wanted was to be with him and not alone with your twisted thoughts, bad memories, and the faint voices in your head. Then, you would have proceeded to tell him that the only moment your mind was quiet was when he was by your side, as hard as it was to admit it. If it had been the case, everything would have been easier but no, and you hated yourself even more for all of this. Come on Rat, say it, you thought.

I just want to be with you, Arthur. Because it feels good when I'm with you. I might want to murder you sometimes but your presence is comforting to me. Please, let me stay by your side and protect me from myself.

But words remained stuck in your throat and all of it was because of a deep-rooted and still open wound you carried with you every day of your life. From the day Uncle Jack entered and destroyed it the only way you could express yourself was with violent emotional outbursts and tantrums, your body and mind still not recovering from the pain he had inflicted on you. And here was the reason why you were in the middle of the park sulking at Arthur Shelby after he had scolded you like an unruly kid.

Woof. Between the two of you sat the soldier's huge malinois, wondering why his master had stopped running and why everyone looked so angry. Curious, Hannibal stared at him with his dark beady eyes reflecting the sunlight. Then, his focus shifted to you before letting out a louder bark. In the end, what caught his attention the most was the girl's utter sadness he could sense. That was why he walked to her and gently bumped her legs with his head.

“What?!” The soldier barked back, his steel-blue eyes diving into the dog’s chocolate-brown irises, quite not believing that his own K9 had turned against him. Hannibal finally sat by your side and barked at Arthur again, and his antics brought a pause in all this senseless chaos.

“Listen...” You started, your free hand nervously spinning one of your long blue braids, “I’m sorry,” You finally mumbled, losing your slim fingers — which were wrapped with multicolor bandaids — in the beast's fur. The softness of his hair under your flesh sends you a wave of comfort. “Fucker." You added, for you couldn't address him without at least calling him names.

“Yeah.” Arthur sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose as if he wanted to stop his dawning headache — which was the case. At least you apologized and that was already a win. "Alright." He finally said with his thick Brummie accent, his muscles finally relaxing and the handsome features of his face softening, “Alright.” He repeated, running a hand in his scruffy beard as he looked for an idea to maybe make amend for how he had yelled at you in public. "I wasn’t feeling it today anyway. It's too bloody hot out 'here. Wanna get an ice cream instead?" He suggested, one brow raised. For once, you didn't need words to be understood for the way your eyes enlightened at the mention of the frozen treat had been more than enough for him to understand. Just like the sun coming after the storm, your lips curled in a faint smile.. A smile that made Arthur's anger vanish and his heart melt more than he was willing to admit.

Did you, two independent and tough adults, fight over ice cream's flavors? Absolutely yes.

"Pistachio and chocolate is THE banger."

"Suck my dick you unoriginal dumbass, lemon and raspberry is the best combo."

"No one fookin' likes lemon sorbet, dumb bitch. You're just being a weirdo."

"If I were you I would shut the fuck up right now because I'm about to smash my ice cream on your ugly face!"

"Oh yeah? Go ahead and I'll beat your fucking ass -- don't care if people see me, you bloody brat!"

It was the kind of heated conversation you had during the whole way home, to Hannibal's greatest despair. At one point, you even swore you had heard the dog sigh loudly, probably bored of your stupid fights. The beast had found hope when you almost tripped on your own feet and Arthur, with his sharp reflexes, had managed to grab you by the hand right before you hit the ground. With that little unfortunate event, he assessed that you were far too clumsy for your own good and that keeping your hands in his was the best way to avoid injury. The more minutes flew by, the more your fingers intertwined together. You finally reached home, reluctantly letting the soldier's large and calloused hand go. As he searched for his key, you simply stretched your body with your hands high and your body weight momentarily resting on your tiptoes, the intense temperatures of the heat waves had exhausted both of you.

"Arthur." You called him, something catching your attention nearby.

The soldier replied with an uninterested "hm" as he opened the door to let Hannibal rush inside before he finally looked at you from above a freckled shoulder. For a split second, he completely forgot that you were talking to him, far too hypnotized by the way sweat made your silky skin glow and how your bright blue braids danced in your back at each of your movements. Arthur couldn't lie to himself -- You were an otherworldly and unusual combination of beauty and chaos.

"Did you know that your neighbor owned such a big-ass pool?!" You exclaimed, your little fists on your hips and your broken-doll face adorned with an outraged pout.

"Hm, yes I did." He absentmindedly replied, too busy carefully observing your lean frame, which exuded a sense of boundless energy that perfectly matched with your vibrant and expressive powder-blue eyes, filled with a mischievous spark. From your grunge makeup and your colorful hair to your attractive body and the blue clouds tattooed along a whole arm, everything of you enticed him.

"Fucking cunt. It's a shame to have such a big swimming pool and not use it." You shook your head and pout, shifting your body weight on one leg more than on the other, hence making your seductive hips tilt. Arthur forced himself to look away -- it wouldn't be that hard if you weren't wearing the shortest shorts he had ever seen.

"Well, he's on vacation." He shrugged, "C'm'here Rat. I ain't your bloody door holder."

"Do you ever stop being grumpy?" You kicked a pebble with your combat boot in his direction.

"Do you ever stop being an annoying little shit?" His lips stretched in a carnivorous and teasing smile at your childish antics.

"Fuck you, Arthur." You retorted, laying a kiss on his jaw before disappearing inside the house.

Please do, he thought.

Just one night.

There was the exact wording he had used when you forced your presence in his bed two weeks ago, arguing that the only fan in the whole house was in this room. While your excuse could be believable, it didn’t explain why you ended up in his arms. So when you came back the night after and slipped under the thin sheet to snuggle up with him without uttering a single thing, Arthur told himself “Just another one”. But the heart was a strange creature and when it fell, it fell hard. Your surprising demonstration of affection was all it took for Arthur's mind to quickly forget about chasing you away, the idea gradually becoming unthinkable until he genuinely wondered how he managed to sleep without your presence next to him. From then an odd game of pretend settled between you and him: During the day you were fighting about the most ridiculous details, never missing a moment to get under the other’s skin, and yet, when the night came and the world turned silent, you found yourselves melting against each other, your lips brushing his neck to make him shiver and his nose buried in your vibrant hair to lured the demons of war away.

As Arthur woke up, his eyelids still heavy and his mind still foggy, he growled in dissatisfaction at the realization that you weren’t in his arms anymore. Maybe the heat had finally won, and his body temperature really kept you from sleeping? It was with this in mind that he stretched one arm, his hand patting the mattress. Not only he want to make sure you were still next to him, but he also already missed your touch. His fingers were met with empty sheets as they collided with the soft fabric. Blood immediately rushed through his entire body, adrenaline rattling against his every nerve just like it used to when his squad had to wake up to gunshots and bombs. For one second, Arthur couldn’t tell if he was in Birmingham or back to Iraq and somehow, he didn’t mind. Jumping from the bed and trying not to drown in his PTSD-induced paranoia, the soldier looked around him with haste, “Love?!” He called, rummaging through the room until the sight of the wide-open bedroom window made him freeze. After a few microseconds of complete panic, Arthur leaned over the window sill in a desperate attempt to see you and fortunately did. You were here, safe and sound in Small Heath. Far from death, maimed bodies, and agonizing soldiers. His shoulders dropped as he relaxed, watching you swimming in the neighbor’s pool. The information soon reached his brain: the neighbor’s pool? “Fuck me.” Arthur sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose and closing his eyes at the thought of you trespassing the garden to take a midnight bath in his pool.

Unbelievable.

Wasting no more time, the soldier left the house without minding the fact he was wearing nothing more than his sweatpants. It wasn’t difficult for him to climb the fence and jump on the other side of it, right into the neighbor’s garden, considering how he had learned much more during his military training with the SAS. With both hands on his head, he roared “Are you fookin’ crazy?!” His steel blue eyes, whose color shone brighter under the glow of the pool’s lights, also noticed a familiar bottle in your hand, “Is it me or you’ve stolen me whisky? Jesus Christ, I’m going to drown you, you fucking disaster of a girl!” He looked so dramatic that you couldn’t help but giggle, his screams not impeding your little bathe. “LAUGHING AT ME FACE SHE IS!” This time Arthur, breathless with rage, was yelling so loud that the pale skin of his face had turned bright red.

"Sheeesh, calm down, you gonna pop an artery.” You swam closer to the edge of the pool, slightly lifting your body to cross your arms on the warm tiles. The way your two long blue braids danced behind you, waving like two water snakes, captivated his attention for a very short while. The soldier was about to retort something murderous when you cut him for a second time, “Why don’t you join me instead of making a fool of yourself eh? The house’s empty anyway.”

“You wish,” He exhaled slowly through the nose, his nostrils flaring as he tried to contain his boiling anger and not wake all the neighborhood up, “This ain’t fun, Rat. Get the fuck out of the pool right now.”

“Come and get me then.” You challenged him with a finger gun gesture.

“I don’t think you understand you stupid brat. Do you realize that what you’re doing is illegal?”

“Yeah.” You giggled.

“And that you could be in fookin’ trouble for it?”

“Yeaaaah!” You exclaimed, pale eyes shimmering with excitement and recklessness so childish it baffled the poor soldier. Taken aback by your behavior, Arthur blinked several time as he looked at you — Somehow he should have known that you weren’t going to obey him. After all, he could tell from your chapped lips and always bloody knees that you were everything but a nice little girl. No, you were an unhinged little shit and he liked it despite everything, “so? Do you really wanna catch me ‘cause I’m getting bored.”

“Okay, I’m done.” The soldier quickly took off his sweatpants to be in underwear and, with a nimbleness you didn’t suspect, dived into the pool. Engulfed by the water, Arthur had disappeared amidst the bluish light and the rippling tiles at the bottom of the pools. All you could see was a quick silhouette coming at you with what seemed to be the speed of a torpedo.

“Oh no, no, no!” Before you could do something, two large and calloused hands grabbed you by the hips and pulled you under the water, leaving you just the time time to take a deep inhale before getting swallowed by a chlorine tide. All your vision turned into a blur for a brief but intense second, chaos taking the form of confusing bubbles and foam until everything stopped. Reopening your eyes under the water, you found yourself transported in a parallel world in which a tranquil hush enveloped your senses. With each graceful stroke, you embraced the weightless sanctuary, finding solace in the quiet depths of the pool, where worries dissolved, and the rhythmic pulse of water echoed a soothing lullaby powerful enough to shut the insufferable screeching of both sickening memories and psychotic thoughts. Surprisingly enough, Arthur wasn’t there — or at least he wasn’t in sight. All you could see was an odd combination of bluish tiles and underwater spotlights that created a surprisingly serene and liminal landscape. It seemed like the cool water had the same calming effects upon the soldier, for when you turned around at the feeling of fingers gently brushing your ribs you were met with a playful smirk. Raising an eyebrow, you gently shove him before trying to escape several times but he inevitably caught you. A small bubble escaped from your lips as you tried not to laugh, amused by how Arthur made both of you slowly spin under the water, as a jolly sailor waltzing with her mermaid lover. With your bodies moving elegantly together, halfway between dancing and gently fighting, your fingers cupped his face. Despite the underwater hush, Arthur’s interrogation is visible through the way one of his eyebrows arched when he saw your face getting dangerously closer to his. Closer. Closer. Until your mouth finally crashed against his. Arthur’s eyes widened in shock, pupils suddenly dilating under the effect of adrenaline when the warmth of your mouth found his. The peck was brief, so brief he wondered if he hadn’t hallucinated it but it was enough for him to lose control of everything. His body softened, letting you a short moment to break free from his playful embrace. Offering a last wink, you trashed your legs to come back to the surface and took a deep inhale. As the warm air of the night filled your lungs, a strange state of calmness possessed you a with it followed a genuinely amused giggle at the remembering of Arthur’s surprised expression. The man broke from underwater a few seconds after you, quickly sliding his hair back with his hands before swimming to you, eyebrows knitted together and lips sewn tight in a thin line.

“What did ya do?” He rasped, his steady breathing rendered irregular for his heart raced in his chest. The taste of your sweet yet damaged lips was still tingling on his skin.

“What are you talking about?” You pouted even though you didn’t make a peculiar effort to hide your amusement. “Hey!” The complaint fell from your mouth when his strong arms wrapped around your waist to press your body against his. A wave of fire spread through your being.

“Do it again.” Arthur could barely believe he just said that and yet he did and now that it was too late, he decided to go for it and see what would happen. Taking advantage of your surprise, he nuzzled his face in the crook of your neck, his lips grazing the soft skin sprinkled with tiny droplets of water similar to translucent pearls engraved in your flesh. A delightful thrill crossed through your body as his beard scratched your skin -- A thrill that soon turned into a wave of heat that made you feel feverish.

“Do what?” Your fierce and loud voice was merely a whisper as your cheeks flushed red, as red as the blood simmering in your veins. You might have been slightly confused by the situation but your bandaged fingers seemed to know what to do when they lost themselves in his wet hair to slick it back with a tenderness you never knew you possessed.

“Kiss me.” The low rumble made your own soul quake. Punctuating his sentence with actions, the soldier's face left your neck to lean his forehead against yours. In this whirlwind of emotions and arousal, you batted your eyelashes while drowning in the dark blue of his eyes and wondered if they had always been this charming. What happened next none of you could tell for any thoughts left disappeared. Mouths grazed each other, the two of them timidly discovering the shape and details without daring to break the few inches remaining. Soft lips against chapped ones, and against all expectations the rougher pair was yours. How could such an unsufferable and brutal little minx like you feel so fragile in his scarred hands? A frail moan escaped from your mouth at the blissful sensation of the soldier's hips moving with yours at the water’s discretion and, for once, you weren't ashamed of it. With your underwear fabric sticking to your skin and bodies closely interlocked, you could both feel every intimate detail and shape, gently and sensually grinding against each other due to the flow... Or maybe the flow wasn't the cause and you were both actively asking for more, who knew? Arthur growled again, for even in the cold water of the pool the warmth between your legs made him weak and far too aware that you yearned for him.

"No, you kiss me first you coward." You tried to sound mean but your voice could produce nothing but an enamored tone.

"Ah, shut up Rat." Arthur softly bit your lower lip, trapping the juicy flesh between his teeth and pulling it a little bit. The taste of anticipation lingered in the air, mingling with the heady scent of perfume, chlorine, and the warmth of intertwined breaths.

"Go on then, shut me up..." And your wish became his command. His warm tongue gave a faint lick on your lower lips just to taste the water, almost too shyly for the man he was. Then a second one and a third, and as he did he kept his hands busy by slipping them under your panties. His large palms conquered your buttcheeks and then pressed on your flesh to bring your core closer to his until you could clearly feel how enthusiastic he was to have you so close. In reply, your fingers hung at the hem of his boxer, slightly pulling them down to disclose his V-line. In the secluded haven of the dimly lit swimming pool, the water's gentle caress enveloped both of you as you shared this moment suspended in time. Arthur's patience finally reached its limits and pressed his lips against yours for another chlorine kiss you were both eager to deepen. A kiss that felt like a car crash and still sounded like water lapping and the rhythmic beat of hearts. It could have been perfect if Arthur hadn't back up suddenly, eyes wide open at the sight of a car's headlight in the house's alley.

“Out of the pool, now!” He exclaimed, hauling himself from the water quickly to grab the bottle of whisky, then his pants before seizing your wrist to lift you from the pool.

"HOLY SHIT!" Adrenaline rushed through your body, momentarily shutting down everything except your flight instinct. That was how you both ended up dashing across the garden half-naked and completely soaked up. Fortunately enough, you both managed to climb the fence and lock yourselves into the house, banging the door so close that poor Hannibal jumped from the sofa and barked. Time stopped for a while, the two of you with your back leaning against the door and trying to catch your erratic breath, bodies dripping with water. A heavy silence floated in the corridor, only broken by the sound of your own heart drumming in your ears. And then, you heard it... It started with a little nervous giggle and then it became a loud and gravelly laughter. Despite the whole panic, you were soon infected by a fit of hilarity too, your aching heart drowning in a feeling you hadn't experienced in a long time: joy in its purest and most innocent form.

♠️ Any comment, review, reblog, or constructive criticism is welcome. Your reactions really motivate me and keep me alive, so please don't be shy. English is not my first language.

♠️ Tag list: @cljordan-imperium @1nterstellarcha0s @raincoffeeandfandoms @babaohhhriley @zablife

[runnning-outof-time]

Any recommendations for any fics with Dad! Tommy? Even better if thet are lighthearted

Hi there, anon!! Thanks so much for dropping in! 🥰 I’d be happy to share some recommendations for dad!Tommy fics (they’re my absolute favorite!!) I’m sorry it took most of the day to respond…it took me some time to think of some of my favs, but I think I’ve got a decent list compiled now. Of course, this isn’t even scratching the surface of amazing dad!Tommy fics that are on here.

Starting off with some of my own dad!Tommy fics:

Girl Dad (mini-series) | Drabble for the series

A Night In

We’ll Still Love You

You Made Them

Cyril Needed A Friend

**Putting my reccomendations of stories by other amazing writers below the cut:

By @notyour-valentine

A Secret, A Fear and A Hatbox

By @zablife

Tiny Hands in Big Hands

By @teenwolf-theoriginals

The Swear Jar

Afternoon Shelby Chaos

By @look-at-the-soul

What About Now

By @mrsalwayswrite

My Guiding Lights

By @toms-cherry-trees

A Little Slip

By @gypsy-girl-08

Daddy’s Girl

These are just a few of the many amazing dad!Tommy fics that immediately came to mind once I saw your ask. Like I said before, there are many, many more amazing stories like these on this site, so please don’t stop searching once you’ve finished this list! 💕

[theladyofdeath]

Life As We Know It {Chapter 8}

Summary: After the sudden deaths of Nesta’s sister and Cassian’s best friend, they gain guardianship of their nephew, Nyx.

Based on Life As We Know It (2010) and a prompt sent in by anonymous for our Nessian fanfic contest. This is a modern au.

Instead of doing a tag list for this story, we have decided to have a set posting schedule. Chapters will be posted weekly on Mondays and Thursdays. Chapters will be posted on both my and Shelby’s blogs! >> @snelbz​

Life As We Know It Masterlist

Shelby’s Masterlist

Tara’s Masterlist

Cassian didn’t have to go into the bar until noon, so until Viviane arrived for her first day at 11:30, it was just him and Nyx.

The sun was out, and Cassian intended to take full advantage of it. Nyx was in his stroller and Cassian was jogging down the side of the Sidra. He’d only had him for the last half hour.

After Cassian’s breakdown last night, Nesta had apparently decided to let Cassian sleep in. Before Nyx could even cry, Nesta had gotten him up, ready, and fed before she left for work that morning.

He was mortified that she’d had to see that, that he’d broken down in front of her like that. But there was so much of Rhys looking at him, all the time and he’d been holding it in for so long. And knowing that he hadn’t been able to figure out what Nyx needed was the final straw last night.

After Nesta had hugged him, he’d finally gotten the strength to pull himself together, and he pulled from her grasp. He’d noticed the dress she wore to go out then, showing just as much skin as that damn towel had, and had made an excuse about being exhausted. He’d shut himself in his room, staring at the ceiling until he fell asleep around two or three in the morning.

He wasn’t surprised she had barely wanted to see him this morning. She probably thought he was an irresponsible mess, probably figured she was better off taking care of Nyx on her own.

And maybe she was.

Nesta had some natural motherly instinct, just like Feyre and Elain had. It was an Archeron trait, Cassian had no doubt.

And although the Archeron sisters certainly hadn’t had a perfect upbringing, the three of them had always had each other.

Cassian couldn’t say the same.

His mom died young.

He’d never had a father.

Or siblings.

Or any other extended family.

He’d just had Rhysand and Azriel, and although fatherhood had come decently easy to both of them, Cassian couldn’t say the same for himself. He was the goofy, unpredictable uncle of the group, he was good in that role.

Not the ideal father figure.

Cassian picked up his speed.

Nyx giggled and threw his hands in the air. 

Regardless of his mood, he couldn’t help but smile down at him.

He loved this kid, and he knew that this kid loved him. He may not be his father, but he would do his damndest to make sure he knew how much he was loved. Every damn day.

*

Cassian had just gotten out of the shower and gotten dressed when he heard the doorbell chime.

Nyx was standing in his playpen, holding onto the padded railing when Cassian rushed to the door, throwing it open.

“Viviane, hey,” he said, opening it wide enough for her to step through. She gave him a polite smile and he shut the door behind her. “Okay, so Nyx is over there, Nesta left a note on the fridge with our cell numbers, the number for her restaurant, my bar, uh, his pediatrician-.”

Viviane laughed quietly and headed for the playpen. “I’ll call you if I need anything, but I’m sure this little dude is going to be an angel.”

She reached down and scooped him up and Nyx did nothing but beam up at her.

“He’s in good hands,” Viviane went on when she saw the worry in Cassian’s eyes.

“I know,” he smiled, although hesitantly. “Nesta will be home at four-thirty.”

“We’re going to have fun,” Viviane promised, and Nyx giggled.

Cassian took that as cue to leave and hurried out the door. It was stressful, leaving him for the first time, alone with someone they had only just met.

He found himself wondering if Rhysand or Feyre would approve.

He prayed they did.

When he got to the bar, Kallias was already there, making sure everything was ready for opening.

“You’re two minutes late, boss,” he teased.

Cassian snorted. “New nanny. Had a hard time leaving.”

Kallias raised a brow. “Hot nanny?” 

Cassian grinned as he came behind the bar. “Just your type, actually.” 

Before the conversation could deepen, Cassian seeing the intrigue in Kal’s eye, he was heading to the store room, grabbing a few bottles to keep within reaching distance when they undoubtedly got a little busy over lunch.

“I like hot nannies,” Kallias hollered. “It would be nice of you to share.”

Cassian snorted, heading back up towards the bar. He didn’t reply, shaking his head as he glanced at his friend, and he set about cutting and readying the garnishes for drinks.

With a dramatic sigh, far louder than it needed to be for Cass to hear him, Kallias began turning on the televisions around the room, two on different sports broadcasts and one on a local music channel.

Maybe he would set Kallias up with Viviane.

Even he had to admit…they’d make a pretty damn cute couple.

*

It was just before 4:30 when Nesta pushed open the front door, prepared to find the house thrown into chaos.

But, it was spotless, Nyx was sleeping, and Viviane was on the couch, reading a book. She looked up at Nesta and smiled.

“You’re home,” she whispered, even though Nyx wasn’t in the room. “He’s been down for about forty-five minutes. We played hard today. I think he’s worn out.”

Nesta blinked, carefully stepping inside and shutting the door behind her. “He was good?”

“Oh, he was great,” Viviane promised, standing up and closing her book with a bookmark placed neatly between it’s pages. “Although, his diaper rash is getting pretty bad. I changed him more often to try and keep him as dry and rash-creamed as possible. But, you may want to keep an eye out. I’ve seen worse, but you still may want to get a prescription from his doctor to help clear it up.”

Nesta hadn’t even noticed that Nyx had had a rash and chastised herself. “Yes. Absolutely, I’ll make him an appointment as soon as I can.”

Viviane smiled again, stopping to grab her purse where it sat by the floor of the couch and dropped her book inside. It was well loved, Nesta could tell, and for a moment, she considered asking what the pretty, young woman was reading.

And then she remembered who she’d been here alone with that morning.

Her eyes popped open. “Oh, gods, I hope Cassian was okay this morning. He’s not…always on his best behavior.”

Viviane brows bunched towards each other, confusion on her face. “I don’t follow?”

“I hope he didn’t say anything too inappropriate,” she rushed out. “He can be a bit much in the mornings, and-.”

“Oh, no, no,” Viviane interrupted, her crystalline eyes going wide. “No, he was an absolute gentleman. On good behavior.” She then added, “And please, don’t mistake my enthusiasm for this job, Nesta, I’m not interested in your husband or anything like-.”

It was Nesta’s turn to interrupt. “Husband?! No, no, Cassian isn’t my husband. Cauldron, no we just have to live together. He’s not even my boyfriend. I can barely stand the guy.”

Viviane hesitated. “Oh, I’m sorry, I just assumed-.”

“It’s alright,” Nesta said, and knew her cheeks were red. “I could see how it would be easy to make that assumption.”

Viviane nodded and rocked back on her heels, uncomfortably. “Right, well...I’ll see you all tomorrow?”

“Absolutely,” Nesta said, trying her best to give a convincing smile.

She knew she was failing.

Convincing smiles weren’t her specialty.

But, husband? As if she would ever marry a man like Cassian. They may have had a moment where they didn’t absolutely loathe each other the night before, but that’s only because he was having a complete mental breakdown.

Nesta may be a bitch, but she wouldn’t kick a man when he’s already down.

Well, at least not in that situation. In a different set of circumstances, perhaps she would. 

Viviane let herself out and Nesta said her goodbyes, and shook her head.

Husband.

Oh, fuck no.

After a quick call to Nyx’s pediatrician, and an appointment made for the following afternoon, Nesta set out to make dinner. Nothing too crazy, just a new recipe she’d been toying with at the restaurant and she needed an unbiased opinion - one from someone whom she didn’t employ - to give her an honest opinion. She knew Cassian would be at the bar until eight-thirty or nine, but the chicken salad would be better chilled anyways.

Or she thought it was. She’d have to ask what he thought about that.

She was halfway through chopping up the roast chicken she’d spiced and marinated all day when the monitor to her left let out a lonely cry. Washing her hands, Nesta was hurrying up the stairs and found Nyx standing in his crib. He immediately reached for her, those blue eyes still drowsy with sleep, but Nesta knew he needed to be changed as soon as she got within sniffing distance. Hopefully he’d be sleepy enough that he wouldn’t fight her on the diaper change.

“What did Cassian feed you for lunch, kiddo?” She asked, scrunching her nose as she unsnapped the onesie he wore, and swapped out his diaper for a clean one.

True to Viviane’s word, Nyx had developed a splotchy, red rash on his bottom. After setting Nyx up in a swing by the door, Nesta took a few minutes to Google what a normal case of diaper rash looked like. Afterwards, she had wiped her search history and was thankful she’d gone ahead and called the pediatrician’s office, especially considering they were now closed until the following morning.

She also had to figure out a way to thank Viviane for her suggestion. Nesta almost felt like she owed the girl an apology for her initial reaction to her, based on her assumptions of Cassian. Not that she had any idea how Nesta had felt, but she still felt bad.

She may know a few things about Cassian Nazari, but she knew nothing about Viviane, not yet. Nesta should really give her the benefit of the doubt.

Even though such a thing was not her specialty.

The second they walked into the kitchen, Nyx was crying and reaching toward the fridge. Nesta put him in his high chair, letting him cry it out as she fixed him supper.

In the meantime, she dumped a pile of strawberry puffs on his tray.

He was immediately stuffing them into his mouth.

“You know, I’ve tasted those and they’re not all that great,” Nesta said, preparing him a small bowl of sweet potatoes.

Nyx looked at her and held up a star-shaped puff. 

She couldn’t help but chuckle. “No, but thank you for the offer.”

Nesta finished her salad and put the rest in the fridge for Cassian to eat once he got home. After taking a seat, and placing her salad and Nyx’s potatoes on the table, she dug in.

It was, obviously, delicious.

Nyx even seemed to be enjoying his sweet potatoes, though, as always more ended up on his high chair’s tray than in his mouth.

“You have an art for making a mess, buddy,” she said, shaking her head as she lifted another spoonful of the sweet potatoes to his mouth.

He took the bite into his mouth, and sprayed most of it back out in a raspberry.

She raised an eyebrow, setting the bowl down in front of her. “You’re just playing at this point, aren’t you?”

To say yes, in fact, he was, Nyx smacked a chubby hand into the mushed up mix of puffs and sweet potato on his tray.

“That means it’s bath time and then bed time,” she mused, wiping as much of him down as she could. She decided to go ahead and ditch his smeared onesie in the laundry room, and carried a diapered Nyx up to the bathroom.

A mostly uneventful bath later, she discovered Viviane must have been telling the truth about playing hard today. Nyx had been asleep before she’d made it through the second page of his favorite book, his pacifier falling out of his full, little lips.

She gently laid him down in the crib, and tiptoed downstairs to flip through bad reality TV until Cassian got home.

She hated how much she had thought about Cassian throughout the day. For once, it wasn’t about his body. Instead, it was about the fact that he had spent five minutes in her arms the night before, sobbing. She wasn’t sure what to think.

Cassian had a rough exterior. 

He was known for his good looks and how many women those looks attracted. Since Nesta met him five years prior, there were only a handful of things she could say about Cassian.

He was beautiful, but that much was obvious.

He knew how to make beautiful instruments, which meant he was good with his hands.

Nesta would be lying if she said she hadn’t thought about just how good he was with those hands.

Lastly, Cassian was cocky as hell. He was hot. He knew he was hot. And he had to convince everyone who didn’t think he was hot that he was hot.

But, one thing that Nesta hadn’t known about Cassian until the night before?

He cared.

He really, really cared.

And he was scared.

She had been willing to put aside their differences for Nyx. They’d come to that agreement when he’d begun to depend on them. But now, she wanted to make things work…for him. He was terrified of letting Rhys down, something she understood. Every time she thought of something she may have done wrong, all she could think about was how disappointed Feyre would be in her.

Except…she knew that wasn’t true. Just like she knew that Rhys would never be disappointed in Cassian. The fact that he’d stepped up, had been willing to care for Rhys and Feyre’s only child…

She just had to make sure Cassian believed it.

Nesta was half asleep on the couch when the door unlocked and opened, Cassian walking through. He blinked once upon seeing her, clearly not having expected her to be downstairs when he got home.

“Hey,” she said, stretching. “How was your day?”

He tossed his keys on the table by the door, looking around, pointedly not looking at her. “It was good. Where’s Nyx?”

“He’s been down since seven-thirty or so, Viviane did great today,” she said, watching him as he walked into the kitchen. “I owe you an apology. You were right, she’s good.”

She heard a grunt of acknowledgment as the fridge opened. He came back into the living room, shaking up a bottled protein shake and cracking it open.

“I made a roasted chicken salad,” she said. “I put leftovers in the fridge for you.” “That’s okay,” he said, voice low. “You can take it to work with you tomorrow. Don’t want to take your food.”

Nesta blinked. “I put it in the fridge for you-.”

“I’m tired,” he said, heading toward the stairs. “Night.”

Nesta’s mouth opened, then shut, then opened again. “I’m sorry, what?”

Cassian stopped at the foot of the stairs and looked over his shoulder. “What?”

I made you dinner. I stayed up to make sure you were alright. “Nothing. Just didn’t realize you were so insistent on being an asshole this evening.”

“An asshole?” he repeated. “I just got home, I’m tired, and now I’m an asshole?” 

Nesta just shook her head, falling back on the couch. “Nevermind. Goodnight.” 

Cassian just stood there, looking half like he wanted to go upstairs and half like he wanted to chuck the half-empty bottle at the back of her head. He’d already had a long, horrible day full of shitty, rude customers. He hadn’t even realized it was nearing Spring Break until the underage kids with shitty, fake ID’s had descended on the bar today. The amount of customers he had to turn away since they were practically children possibly outweighed the actual customers he and Kal had served.

He’d also had Nesta on his mind all day, on the pity she had to feel for him after he lost it the night before. The fact that she made him dinner was just proof of it, that he was right.

“You didn’t need to make me dinner,” he said, staring at the wall behind her head. “I can take care of myself, alright?”

Nesta’s eyes were closed, her arms crossed as she laid back on the couch. “I didn’t say that you couldn’t.”

“Just because I lost it for a minute last night, doesn’t mean that I’m helpless,” Cassian went on. “I’m just as capable of taking care of Nyx, of being a grown ass adult, as you are.”

Nesta’s eyes opened, then, and she slowly looked over to him. “Is that right?”

“Yeah, it is,” he said, simply.

“Really?” Nesta asked. “Because you’re acting like a gods damned child right now.”

Cassian snorted as he shook his head. “I don’t have the patience for you tonight. Goodnight.”

“You’re a real dick, you know that?” Nesta snapped.

“It’s all you think I’m good for, so I guess I may as well act like it, too,” he called out, not turning back to look at her.

The words struck her, made her feel two feet tall, especially considering how she’d begun to regard him instead. But she wasn’t able to stop the bite of her words as she snapped, “Oh, fuck you.”

Cassian didn’t say a word as he topped the stairs and headed down the hall.

She almost wished he’d slammed the door, almost wished he’d made a spectacle of being angry and shutting her out again, after what she’d thought may have been progress the night before. 

It was almost that much worse that his door shut with a soft click.

[hb-writes]

The Baby Whisperer

1909

Arthur didn’t know what to do. He should have, and being the oldest brother in a family of six, he usually did know how to efficiently calm a howling child, but Clara’s persistence had run him straight out of strategies.

Arthur had seen his fair share of tantrums over the years. Every Shelby who came after him had thrown at least one tremendous strop he'd been there to witness, but Arthur had never seen anything quite like this, with the baby so obstinately inconsolable, almost like she was simply determined to remain upset. 

Clara was usually a happy girl, all smiles and bouncing curls and giggles, and that's how she had been when the house emptied out.

Polly had insisted Arthur would have no trouble. Finn and Clara were due to be down for a nap, and they were good sleepers, the two of them usually conking out for a few hours each afternoon and sleeping through the night, too. Clara hadn't settled though, and Arthur couldn't very well leave her in the crib wailing and keeping Finn awake. 

So Arthur brought the baby downstairs with him, hopeful that she’d tire and settle in his arms and he could put her back with Finn a little later. But for close to an hour, Clara had done nothing but scream and cry, clinging to him one minute and pulling away from him the next.

Clara traipsed around the room, ripping anything within her limited reach down to the floor from its proper place. She declined all of the common solutions - the cuddles, songs, milk, or a snack. She didn’t need changing either, and because Arthur wasn't an idiot when it came to babies, he had even given her a small measure of the soothing syrup Polly picked up from the chemist, but nothing seemed to do the trick.

He knew she was probably teething, could tell by her red cheeks and the compulsive ear pulling and the chewing on everything within reach.  

It seemed to Arthur that the twins took turns, pushing through teeth one at a time, leaving the house in a constant state of earsplitting chaos and distress. He figured they should be through the worst of it by now. Clara seemed to have more than enough teeth in her mouth to constitute close to a full set. He could see that every time she opened her mouth to let out another wail.

Arthur pushed a hand through his hair, pouring himself a drink as he watched Clara chew on her hand. That was a blessing, the chewing, because the cries were muffled as she did it, and when the cries were muffled, Arthur could almost think.

Clara pulled her hand from her mouth and walked across the room, the wailing growing in volume as she wobbled over to him, arms outstretched and Arthur set the empty whiskey glass down, reaching down to pull the screaming toddler into his lap.

"Come on, sweetheart.” He kissed her warm cheek. “Don't cry." 

Clara didn't quit though. Arthur wasn't sure she even understood the words. She had some language, could say their names, or some version of them, and some other things, too—foods and animals and random objects she'd been given names for—but there were large gaps in her understanding. She was still a baby.

She settled her head against his shoulder for a moment and Arthur rubbed her back, wishing there was something left to try. He assumed by this point she was overtired to boot. She must've been, crying and carrying on for over an hour past her regular nap time. 

As the cries continued to grow in volume, Arthur pushed himself up out of the chair, smacking his head on a nearby lamp, and Clara's favorite word popped from his mouth. 

"Fuck!" she repeated, a smile suddenly pulling across her face as she looked up to Arthur who held a hand over the offending spot on his head. 

"Fuck is right, little sister," he mumbled. "That bloody hurt." 

Clara giggled again, a hand reaching up to tap him on the side of the head.

"Are you laughing at your brother?" Arthur asked, tickling her neck a bit. "You think it's funny when he gets hurt?" 

She giggled and smiled at him, one of those exaggerated baby grins that showed all of the teeth freshly sprouted in her little mouth. It took Clara's whole face to smile like that, from her dimpled cheeks to her eyes squinted closed. 

"Well, I suppose that's alright," he said. "Lucky for you, I like your laugh." 

Arthur grasped one of the books off the shelf and tapped it on his head, an exaggerated ‘ow!’ coming through his lips. Arthur didn’t find it particularly funny, but Clara did, and her little laugh was infectious, so he smiled and laughed along with her, only sobering up long enough to feign a bit of pain and injury, starting up her giggles anew.

-----

Peaky Blinders (Little Lady Blinder) Masterlist 

[writingwithacupoftea]

Poison

Summary: When Y/N Shelby arrives back from a meeting with some potential business partners, her brothers, Tommy, notices that something isn’t quite right with her.  Hours later, the family are crowded around her bedside, while she lies on the brink of death.

Word Count: 3350 (ooh, that’s satisfying)

Trigger Warnings: vomiting and just generally being ill

A/N: My stubborn arse finally managed to finish this fic (even though I edited as little as possible so it’s quite long)!! Hope you like it 💜💜

The Shelby and Gray families were not ones for quiet - they brought chaos and noise with them wherever they went. But now, not a single member of the family could bring themselves to speak, the doctor's parting words circling around in their heads:

"It's not looking good, I'm afraid. If she wakes in the morning, then I think we can say that things are looking up. But I can't promise you that she will."

Tommy couldn't decide if the silence was a blessing or curse. He was beyond grateful not to have his younger sister's screams of agony echoing down the halls of Arrow House any more, but it seemed so unnatural: Y/N wasn't the loudest of the Shelby clan, but she was always there with a sarcastic quip, witty comeback, or words of comfort that none of her other siblings could ever quite get right.

Her brothers often said that she was the future of Shelby Company Limited - Y/N had a vision and was determined to see it through with Tommy's help, for even though they disagreed frequently, he couldn't deny that her ideas could be the making of the business in the modern world. Tommy was beyond proud of the woman that he raised after their bastard of a father left them. Yes, Arthur, John and Ada had helped him and Polly with raising their sister – but no one could deny that Tommy loved Y/N in a way that none of the others ever could.

Now, he and his brother were crowded around her bedside, helpless, wondering how they could have let this happen.  

The doctor suspected poison, and although he couldn't be sure which poison it was, Tommy knew exactly who had given it to his sister and let the guilt consume him.

***

Earlier that day...

"Tommy, do I seriously have to meet them by myself?" Y/N asked as she marched into her brother's office (without knocking, of course).

"I've told you, Y/N/N, I've got a meeting of my own to go to and I don't trust Arthur and John not to fuck things up even if you are there."  

She was meant to be having lunch with some potential business partners from America, but despite Tommy's reassurances that this deal would be of benefit for their future plans for the company, Y/N had a feeling that something wasn't right about them. When she'd mentioned her suspicions that the associates may not be as friendly as they appear, Tommy brushed her concerns aside as Polly raged on at him ("Thomas you're a fool if you don't listen to your sister now – it's her gypsy instinct and it's never wrong.")  

But still, Tommy insisted on going through with it. He wasn't backing down now.

~ ~ ~

When Y/N returned later that afternoon, Tommy watched in silence as she slumped down at her desk and put her head in her hands.

"That bad was it, eh?" Tommy questioned, jokingly.

"My head's pounding, Tom, don't fucking wind me up."

Arthur, who had heard the exchange, walked up to her, slamming a pile of work onto her desk. "Is our little Y/N becoming a lightweight?"

"Oh, piss off Arthur," the firmness in her voice surprising him, considering that she didn't lift her head up.

Luckily, Arthur took that as his cue to leave, but not before sending an amused look at Tommy, one that was not reciprocated. Instead, the second eldest brother furrowed his brows, all of his attention focused on his little sister, concern beginning to bubble inside of him. Not wanting to start any arguments, however, he simply settled with saying "We'll leave at about five o'clock if you're still feeling like shit, yeah? I just need to finish this first."

Y/N laughed, humourlessly, and gestured towards her newly acquired work. "I've got plenty to keep me busy, Tommy, don't worry."

"You know if you're really feeling -"

"No, Thomas." His sister cut him off abruptly. "I'm fine to work, it's just a headache. It'll go before I know it."

With that, she began reading the first document that Arthur had given to her, actively avoiding Tommy's eye.

~ ~ ~

A couple of hours later and Tommy, having been so consumed with his work, realised that he hadn't heard a peep from Y/N since she started working.  

Looking up, he immediately became aware that Y/N still wasn't back to her usual self. To anyone else, she simply looked hard at work, furiously making notes as she waded through her paperwork; but Tommy could see her discomfort from a mile off. The hand subconsciously rubbing her stomach, the occasional wince in pain, the fingers on her other hand massaging her temples.

Y/N didn't seem to notice anything as Tommy made his way past her desk to speak to John and Arthur. "Has she said anything to either of you?"

"Nah," Arthur replied, casually. "I didn't think I pissed her off that badly earlier though, so I don't know why. She just keeps ignoring everyone and won't fucking sit still."

This did absolutely nothing to qualm Tommy's worries.

John piped up, tentatively: "You don't think it's...you know?"

"No, I don't, John. So spit it out."

John lowered his voice to a whisper, glancing slightly over his shoulder to make sure that Y/N wasn't listening. "You don't think it's that time of the month, do you? She always get a bit cranky, doesn't she."

Tommy cleared his throat as Arthur looked at the ground awkwardly. "Yeah, he's got a point, Tom. Best not to ask any questions."

"Right." Tommy paused, before making his way back to his office.  

He mulled over his brothers' words. It was a reasonable explanation for her behaviour, but something just didn't sit right with it for Tommy. Y/N had always lived with him and over time he had developed an instinct for when that time of the month was meant to be, and this didn't fit the usual pattern.

Lost in his thoughts as he packed up his things, Tommy was taken by surprise when Y/N appeared in the doorway, a smile plastered on her face. "You ready to go, Tom?"

If Tommy had looked a bit closer, he would've seen that the smile was just a bit too bright to be genuine. He would've seen that it didn't quite reach her eyes, which looked tired and pained in themselves. But, in an unusual move for Thomas Shelby, his shock at seeing such a drastic change in his sister overtook everything else.

As they drove back to Arrow House, the sun beginning to set in the distance, Tommy thought to himself 'Maybe John and Arthur were right, for once. I'm just worrying too much.'

Upon their arrival home, the siblings' usual routine began: Y/N made her way up to her room, whilst Tommy headed straight for his study to carry on working after greeting Grace and Charlie.  

And so, the evening began as a fairly typical one...but Tommy would never forget that night for the rest of his life.

~ ~ ~

At 7 o'clock each night, either Y/N or Grace would barge into Tommy's study to drag him to dinner (otherwise they thought that he'd never eat). In actual fact, Tommy always knew when dinner was going to be, but he enjoyed their visits to come and fetch him – for once, Thomas Shelby enjoyed being looked after.  

Grace had left for the weekend to spend some time with friends, and so when 7 o'clock came and went without Tommy being disturbed by his sister, he began to worry. Remembering her headaches and discomfort in the office, he came to the quick conclusion that she must have fallen asleep and made his way upstairs to go and wake her.

Call it his instinct as her older brother, but Tommy just knew that something was off as he stood outside Y/N's bedroom. Opening the door and peering around it, he froze at the sight before him: his sister, collapsed on her bed, sweating profusely and mumbling incoherently to herself. Tommy rushed over, panic eclipsing him, "Y/N?"

As he brushed the loose strands of hair away from her face, Tommy felt the heat radiating from her. Having nursed his sister through many an illness during her lifetime, and therefore knowing exactly what to do (or so he hoped, for Tommy had never seen her quite this bad before), he jogged down the hallway to fetch a bowl of lukewarm water and a cloth from the bathroom.

But Tommy's plans to nurse his sister through the night himself were put to an abrupt end upon his return. Y/N was curled up in a tight ball, arms wrapped around her stomach as she groaned and grunted in pain, vomiting violently over the side of her bed.

"Mary, call the doctor NOW!" Tommy yelled over his shoulder before dashing to sit next to his sister on the bed, dampening the cloth and dabbing it to her forehead. "Y/N? Y/N, speak to me, love, what's wrong?"

Still he got no response. Y/N didn't even give any indication that she knew that he was there. Her moans of pain simply got louder and more agitated and Tommy couldn't bear it. He had always done everything that he could (and more) to keep any pain far, far away from his sister, and when it couldn't be prevented Tommy would stop at nothing to make things better for her. Even when she was a baby, and their mother was still alive, no one could separate Tommy from Y/N's side when she was sick or injured – he didn't trust that others wouldn't cause her to suffer further, and so Y/N remained under his watchful eye until she was back to full strength (and even then he was wary for a week or so afterwards).

So, for Tommy, seeing his beloved sister writhing in pain, not knowing what was wrong or how he could help, was complete and utter torture for him.

~ ~ ~

When Mary arrived upstairs to inform her employer that the doctor would arrive within ten minutes, she barely recognised him: hair messy, hands shaking and muttering tender words of comfort, the Thomas Shelby in front of her was far from the controlled man that she had become accustomed to dealing with. But the thing that shocked her the most came when the man looked up at her. Whilst the blue of his eyes had become less icy since his marriage and the birth of his son, these eyes were wild, frantic and displayed a boyish vulnerability that Mary had never even imagined. They were glazed with unshed tears, and yet this barrier did nothing to hide the whirlwind of emotions that were communicated through them. The overarching message that they conveyed was as clear as day: Thomas Shelby was frightened.

The man's voice, thick with emotion despite his attempts to compose himself, snapped her away from her thoughts. "Call the rest of the family. Explain what's happening. Tell them that they need get here as quickly as possible. Then see to it that Charlie's looked after for the night. I'll be staying here."

"Yes, Mr Shelby. Shall I send everyone straight up here?"

Tommy simply nodded, his attention already devoted to his sister once more.

~ ~ ~

The minutes that followed this interaction would forever haunt Tommy's memory.

Whilst Y/N appeared to have stopped being sick, her cries of pain continued to escalate, both in frequency and in volume. Each one pierced through Tommy like a dagger straight to his heart. He knew that nothing he was doing was helping her, and that the situation was completely out of his control, and Tommy hated it. His brain became like a cage, trapping him in his tormenting thoughts: 'You should have done something sooner...you've failed her...how can you ever claim to be a good brother again when you can't even ease her pain...this is your punishment...it's your fault...it's all your fault.'

Tommy clutched onto Y/N's hand like a lifeline, mopping her brow as sweat continued to spill from every pore and her groans became screams tearing from her throat.  

Just when he thought that things couldn't get any worse, the convulsions began

Sheer terror consumed Tommy as he watched Y/N's body jerk violently on the bed. Silent tears cascaded down his face as he sat there, completely helpless, trying not to breakdown himself. That was the last thing that Y/N needed. He knew that he should call Mary or one of the maids, but he couldn't bear to leave Y/N's side to do so. He felt almost paralysed with fear, the only movement he made being the kisses that he placed repeatedly to her knuckles in between his pleas of "You're going to be alright, sweetheart...I'm here...I love you..."

The doctor came rushing in just as the convulsions were dying down, and immediately shooed Tommy away. Had the circumstances been any different, Tommy would have questioned the tone that the doctor took with Tommy – no one dismissed Tommy Shelby like that (except for Aunt Polly). But the Shelby man didn't even register it in his desperation for his sister to be looked at, so that he knew what to do to help her. He just needed to do something to make things better for her.

Standing outside Y/N's bedroom door, he heard the low rumble of his family's voices. Going against every one of his instincts to stay in position outside of Y/N's room, he ran down the stairs to see his family.

John, Arthur, Ada, Finn, Michael and Polly, like Mary, were shocked by the version of Tommy that appeared before them. From this alone, they knew that things were bad. Despite Tommy's explanations, the sight of Y/N lying weakly in her bed took them by surprise. Y/N always seemed so strong and full of life, the light of the family, and the realisation struck everyone that they may be plunged into darkness in the next few hours.

***

"It's not looking good, I'm afraid. If she wakes in the morning, then I think we can say that things are looking up. But I can't promise you that she will."

The silence left behind in the room after the doctor's departure was deafening. He had given Y/N some injections of fuck knows what to stop the convulsions and ease her pain, but he didn't know what else to do. He'd never dealt with anything like this before.  

All the family could do was wait.

After some time to process the doctor's warning, each member slowly began to unfreeze, or so it seemed. Polly disappeared to the kitchen to make tea and sort out some food, although no one felt like eating. John called Esme, and afterwards Arthur rang Linda, informing their wives that they wouldn't be back at home until at least tomorrow – they couldn't leave their sister. Michael ventured down the corridor to fetch some more chairs. Ada went to tend to Charlie, and Finn went with her, sent with the task of updating Mary and telling her to go to bed.

That left Tommy. Tommy, who couldn't believe what was happening. Tommy, who knew that, despite his new family with Grace, he couldn't cope without Y/N.  

Tiredly, the second eldest of the Shelby clan moved to reposition himself next to Y/N on her bed, holding her small hand in his and observing the baby hairs which fell delicately in front of her face. She would always be his little girl, no matter how old and grey and feisty she became, and nothing would change that. He refused to let anything take her away from him before they reached that point, not even poison.

As he mulled this all over in his head, remarking to himself how much she'd grown up yet how little she'd changed, Finn came back into the room. Breaking the silence, the youngest brother tentatively asked "Will she be alright?"

When Tommy looked up at his younger brother, he realised that he wasn't the only one who was scared. Truthfully, Tommy hated not being able to give a straight answer, and simply replied "She's a fighter, Finn."

God knows, they all hoped that she wouldn't stop fighting now.

***

Hours dragged on like days. The slow rising of the early morning sun taunted Tommy. The brighter it became in that room, the more the chance of Y/N waking up again slipped through his fingers.

He was the only one who stayed awake for the entire night, despite Ada's pleas for him to rest and Polly's snaps of "You're going to be no use to her if you're dead on your feet." Even the occasional drooping of his eyelids couldn't persuade him to relent. Because he knew that the minute he gave into that temptation, something would happen and Tommy couldn't risk missing anything.  

Part of him had stayed awake in case Y/N needed anything or got worse; part of him stayed awake in case she herself woke up (he didn't want her being alone); and the final part of him, the part of Tommy that was shit scared of what was going to happen, wanted to spend every single moment with his little sister. Because he didn't know if one of them was going to be her last on this Earth.

Arthur and John woke up in the chairs next to Y/N's bed, and gradually the rest of the family came to join them.

Polly was the first to speak. "Has there been any change?"

Tommy didn't trust himself to say the words out loud, so responded by shaking his head and placing a kiss to the back of Y/N's hand, which he hadn't relinquished his hold on.

Whilst her skin was clammy to the touch, she was no longer sweating like before. Her breathing had evened out and the expression of discomfort that had marred her face had melted away: Y/N looked peaceful. To Polly and the rest of the family, this was a good sign, an indication that she was getting better. However, the thought lingered that this would make it easier for her to slip away undetected.

This was the most terrifying idea.

The morning continued to pass by: 9 o'clock, 10 o'clock, 11 o'clock...still nothing.

Everyone was becoming more and more agitated, the ticking of the clock doing nothing to ease the tension. Tommy had finally moved, deciding to pace up and down the limited space left in the room instead. Occasionally, someone would walk over to the window or run downstairs to get a new book. But still they waited, each member of the family united in their hope that Y/N would wake soon.

When the clock struck midday, that hope began to fade, even though no one would say it out loud; it could just be felt in the atmosphere.

However, when no one was looking, Y/N's eyes slowly crept open, squinting as the bright sunlight beamed through the window. Once her eyes had adjusted, she observed her family positioned around her room and noted the peace and quiet, even if Y/N could tell that it was tense. Internally, she sighed to herself 'No fucking fighting, at last.'

Her voice was croaky as she said quietly "How long are you guys gonna hover round my bed like a bunch of creepers, eh?"

The relief was immediate. As Arthur and John roared in excitement, shouting "SHE'S ONLY GONE AND FUCKING DONE IT," Tommy raced over and rested a hand on her cheek tenderly, their tired eyes meeting for the first time in hours. His eyes spoke of admiration and disbelief, whilst hers held only adoration for her big brother. Tommy placed a kiss to her forehead, and let a couple more tears fall.

"I love you, sweetheart."

"Love you, Tom." Y/N smiled softly. "Thank you for staying with me, I knew you were there the entire time."

"As if I could ever leave you, eh."

"Or I you, Tom."

And that was the simple and honest truth.

[murderousginger]

Temporary Bliss

John Shelby x reader x Finn Shelby

Word count: 4,330

Warnings: Angst. Yearning. Smutty things. They're criminals guys, they do bad things.

Note: So this took some time and might be a bit rough, but we all need a distraction right now. I hope you all enjoy!

(gif by @bonniebirddoesgifs​ )

Every day, John thought, Like fucking clockwork.

Finn was outside his office, like a lovestruck idiot, making moon eyes over his secretary. Five minutes before end of day. Every. Day.

It started cute enough. Finn ran past her one afternoon to give John a message from Tommy. He was so wrapped up in getting the message to John that he didn't even notice the girl that he pushed past in John's doorway. That was, until, Finn was knocked off balance from her hands on his collar as she dragged him out of the office. He was taller than she was, which only made it easier for her to move him.

"Excuse me," she had said, face red as she glared up at the youngest Shelby, "I don't believe you have an appointment and you are supposed to see me before you interrupt Mr. Shelby."

"(Y/N)," John said, hiding his smile with his hand before he pointed to the scoffing boy in her grip. "I see you haven't met Finn, my youngest brother."

She immediately loosened her grip on his shirt with a gasp, her eyes dropped to the floor as a waterfall of apologies left her lips like prayers.

"It's okay," John said laughing. "We don't think much of him, either. What do you want, Finn?"

Finn scoffed at his brother as he smoothed out his suit and walked back into the office, closing the door loudly behind him.

John watched through the frosted glass as (Y/N) settled back into her seat at the desk in front of his office before he stood up and met Finn's waiting eyes.

"Well," Finn said, "what's your response?"

John tilted his head.

"To what?"

"To what I just told you," Finn exhaled, hitting his thighs with his hands. "The message."

"The message," John said as he cleared his throat. "Right, well tell me again while I gather a good answer."

Finn groaned.

When Finn left, he had stopped by (Y/N)'s desk to tell her that it was okay, he wouldn't take it to heart, that it was a misunderstanding. But his breath caught as he looked down at her wide eyes looking up at him. He stammered his words as she gave him a smile, politely nodding to encourage him to finish his sentence.

It was all over at that moment, John thought, the idiot fell in puppy love.

Honestly, that was the day John looked at her differently, too. She had always been a good secretary, but her courage to pull a man out of his office made him want to know more about her. He started to notice more, pulling himself out of his head to acknowledge her. For a 20 year old, seven years his junior --far closer to Finn's tender age of 18 than his own-- she had a good head on her shoulders.

She was always nice to the other women, even the gossips and the complainers, and always encouraging on busy days. She did her work and went home. She was always respectful when someone stepped out of line but she had no hesitation in correcting what she thought was wrong. John started finding himself watching her from his office on slow afternoons.

I wonder what she's like when she finally relaxes, he thought. I'd like to be the one that knows. That gets to make her smile.

Finn must have had the same idea, because only a few weeks after their first encounter he started showing up at the office more. He would make small talk, leaning on her desk, bringing her little presents like wildflowers from the ditch or a treat from the bakery. Visit by visit she became friendlier, more animated, relaxed.

The first laugh was music to John's ears. It rang through the empty room after work only to be stifled by her hand. Finn was smiling, leaning over her as he sat on her desk, and something warm knawed at John's stomach. Finn tucked a stray hair behind her ears. He locked eyes with his brother as Finn sat back up and he sheepishly smiled as John's eyebrow quirked.

"I should probably be off," Finn shrugged, looking back at (Y/N). "Let you go home for the day."

"You could walk me, if you'd like," (Y/N)'s voice said softly and John's blood ran cold in the other room. "But only if you'd like."

"Y-yeah," Finn sputtered, standing from her desk. "I'd like that."

After that, Finn walked her home every day. John was always the last one out of the office.

Months went on. Finn continued visiting, bringing her trinkets, walking her home. (Y/N) got more and more comfortable with her position in the company and even began to relax around John. She often stayed late with John to finish counting the books or organize after a particularly busy day.

John found her presence comforting. He started to sit at the table near the safe with his paperwork after hours so that they could talk while the work was being done.

"Exciting plans this weekend, doll?" He asked one Thursday evening after a particularly busy day.

She smiled brightly as she counted a stack of money.

"Actually, yes," (Y/N) said as she scribbled into the book before picking up another stack. "Finn asked if I wanted to see the new Chaplin movie."

John's heart sank as his head shot up. He gave her a weak smile.

"You like Chaplin, eh?"

She nodded excitedly.

"I never really go to the pictures, so it's nice to be able to go."

"A girl like you should have suitors lining up to take you anywhere you'd like," John said as he looked back down to his paperwork. "My idiot brother should be the least of your choices."

"Finn's sweet."

"That what you're looking for?" John asked as he dropped his pen.

(Y/N)'s face is pinched, a troubled look flashing between confusion and annoyance. She bit her lip, as if she had words that would tumble out of she did not hold them.

"Just a question," John sighed as he leaned back. "But not mine to ask. I'm sorry."

"You know what I think?" She said, scrambling to her feet. "Tea. I think we both need a spot of tea. Yes."

She was gone in a blink, off to the kitchens to boil the water. John groaned and pressed his face into his hand a moment, exhaling out the frustration. He tried to read the papers again, but couldn't get past the first few lines.

"Idiot, John, idiot," he mumbled. "Finn's not the only Shelby without a fucking clue."

"He's not," she said as she brought in a cup of tea, setting it beside him.

John flushed as he looked up at her sheepishly.

"Thanks, doll," he said, briefly smiling at her before burying his head back into the stack of paperwork.

She smiled thinly, walking to the door but paused in the frame to look back at him.

"My name's not doll, Mr. Shelby."

John's head snapped up and he frowned as he studied his secretary in the doorway.

"I know your name, (Y/N)," he said, his pen falling from his hand. "Just like I know your last name. Just like I know your family. Just like I know your address."

She froze, and his frown deepened, realizing how that must sound.

"I'm your boss," he smiled as he said in a lighter tone. His eyes softened. "I also know that when the room goes to chaos, you run over and make all the girls a spot of tea, to calm everyone's nerves. Earl Grey, I believe. Probably what I have here beside me, too."

She relaxed as his finger swirled the top of the steaming cup.

"I don't call you doll because I don't know your name," John pressed quietly, tucking the words into the silence like you tuck the edges of a bed cover. "I call you doll because you look it. You're angelic, even in this 'shit lighting' you girls like to complain about."

"I--"

"And I've told you before," he said, picking up the cup and pausing it against his lips. "Call me John."

Her mouth clamped down and she studied the man in front of her drinking tea before she smiled softly.

"Yes, John."

----

When your birthday came the next week, you gasped when you found a box on your desk when you sat down for the day. The small white box was wrapped in a red velvet ribbon and tucked in front of her typewriter. You touched the ribbon, feeling the plush fabric as you carefully pulled on it. You lifted the too to find a white note.

Happy birthday, (Y/N).

You deserve a little sparkle after all the hard work you've put in lately.

-J.S.

Under the note was a sliver of the moon woven into a gorgeous band that felt cool against your fingers as it glistened. It was the most gorgeous silver bracelet you had ever seen.

You appeared in his doorway and closed the door before you could even think straight.

"I can accept this, John," you said as you set the box on his desk.

"Why not?" He frowned as he reached for it. "It's your birthday."

"It's far too much," you said. "I'm just a secretary. This isn't proper."

John's eyes widened as he scoffed.

"There's no attachments," he said. "I'm not asking for anything. I just wanted to give you something nice for your birthday. You've worked so hard around here, a card didn't feel enough." He paused, moving the box in his hand. "And maybe there's an apology wrapped in it as well."

"An apology?"

"The other night I was a git," he said as he scratched his neck. "None of my business who or why you run around with anyone. Not my place. Now come 'round so I can put this on your wrist. I'm not taking it back."

You came around his desk as he opened the box, the chain looking so delicate in his large hands. Feelings bubbled inside and you giggled as he fumbled with the clasp.

"Thank you, John," you said softly as he clasped it around your wrist.

"Pretty bracelet for a pretty girl," he rumbled, smiling at you as you hand lingered in his. He cleared his throat. "Right. Well, work calls. Best go back before the chickens gossip."

He patted your hand before you stepped back, and he smiled at your wrist as you rotated it to watch the bracelet gleam in the light.

"Right, work," you said slowly, watching his eyes follow your wrist as you moved. "Do you need anything while I'm here, John?"

His attention snapped to your face as you said his name and he gave you a lopsided smile that gave you butterflies.

"No, thank you," he said. "Happy birthday again, (Y/N)."

"Thank you, John."

Days went by and you found yourself wearing the bracelet every day. Smiling at it when it caught your eye, even when you were in Finn's company.

One Monday morning, John didn't show up for work. Finn told you that his older brothers were in London, drinking and fucking under the guise of expansion. The answer itched under your skin, but you chalked it up to having to take John's place to keep the girls in the office moving. When he came back, you had no hesitation to visit his office.

"No one's seen you in days," you said as you crossed your arms and eyed him carefully from the doorway.

It has been nearly a week and you had to keep the girls in line as well as the bookies during a huge race while your boss, whose job it was, was off doing who knows what. Or who, the annoying little voice in your head chipped in. The whole thing made you feel tired and agitated. And now he's back, on a Friday evening no less, like nothing ever happened.

"Business in London," John said gruffly as he sat down at his desk to the mountain of paperwork waiting for him. "Tom called it a vacation, but there wasn't no free time. All business."

John sighed as he reached for a pen.

"And there's enough papers to go through I aughta be here half the night."

"Any," you said, smiling softly. So no girls.

"Wasn't any free time. Welcome back, John."

John looked up from his paperwork perplexed until his pursed lips slid into a small smile.

"Thank you, (Y/N)," he said as you kicked off the door and sat back at your desk to finish your work.

"Thought I was doll," you called just loud enough for it to carry into his room. You hoped he could hear the smile in your voice.

"You are," he laughed.

An hour or so later you had finished gathering the information from the last race's earnings and stacked the papers to take to John. You tapped on his door frame and walked in without hesitation.

John jolted in his seat and sat up, a guilty look across his face as if he was caught passing notes in class.

"Papers from the last race you missed," you said, tossing them on top of his pile.

John shuffled in his seat, both hands under his desk. You frowned. His hands reappeared and started shuffling the papers, his eyes not meeting yours. You looked down his pinstripe jacket before you realized why he would look guilty and your eyes snapped back up when you saw his trousers undone.

Oh.

You turned around to walk to the door. You stopped there, a hand on the frame as you looked over your shoulder.

"You know quite a few girls fawn over you," you said. "You could have any of them, really. I don't think I've seen you with a girl in some time. You look" you paused. "Stressed."

John frowned as he looked up from his desk.

"I don't want a razor chaser," he said. "Those girls will blind a Blinder fast. They want the snow and the money but they never think of the violence as more than a thrill."

"Only want those that don't want you?" You smiled, watching closely for any response. A glimmer.

John chuckled before he looked back down to the papers.

"Something like that," he murmured.

Monday afternoon, you were at your desk when Tommy --Mr. Shelby-- stormed past you, cigarette burning between his fingers. The door slammed behind him and you could hear pacing in the room behind you.

"Right, John, you're to lead the Italian meeting in my stead," Tommy's muddled voice said, already moving toward the door. The door jiggled.

"Me? But what--"

"I don't want to hear it," Tommy interrupted, walking through the door before pointing behind him at John. "Just make it happen. This company is growing rapidly. Remind me why you should keep your position."

Tommy walked out with a curt nod at you. Conversation over.

You heard papers scatter as Tommy left and immediately stood up and walked into his office to find John pacing behind his desk. You flinched as he grabbed his chair and threw it into a corner, his hands flying to his head as he growled in frustration. You quickly closed the door behind you.

"John?" Your voice wavered.

He stopped in his tracks and looked up, his wild eyes looked over you before he closed them and took a deep breath.

"Yes, (Y/N)," he said tiredly. "What do you want?"

"It's a slow day today," you said as you looked him over, his hands shaking as he fought to stay still, calm, under your gaze. "The girls were hoping to leave early. Make up the hours when we're slammed later this week."

"Yes," John sighed. "Send them home. Thank you, (Y/N). Now if you could kindly go home yourself, I can properly go 'round the bend in peace."

He started pacing again, but you didn't move to leave.

"John?" You were quiet, and yet it was deafening even as he stomped and growled. You could tell your presence set him on edge, but wasn't entirely sure why. You had started to feel safe around him, joking and talking to each other in after hours. You had thought you were friendly with each other, but his demeanor was tense, agitated.

"What?"

"Is there something wrong?"

You stepped forward and he stopped again, rubbing his eyes in his hand.

"Yes," he said, agitation spilling over like bubbles over a boiling kettle. "Yes there's quite a bit wrong. I've got to lead a meeting with the fucking Italians and I've already been on edge, fucking chomping at the bit for weeks. Between the kids and work I've not had a bloody minute alone."

"Can I help?"

John barked a laugh before he could stop himself.

"Not unless you can dress up as me and talk to the bloody Italians," he said bitterly. "Or you're ready to wank off your boss so his head's on straight again."

His head shot up, eyes wide as he took a step around his desk, his hand outstretched.

"I didn't mean that," he said quickly. "Christ, I'm going bloody crazy."

John started pacing again, a wild animal in a cage. The floor under his feet would wear if he kept going. The boards would creak, give way until he was pacing himself into the ground.

"It's fine," you said quietly. "I'll send the girls home."

You stepped out, keeping John closed in his office to pace as you sent everyone home. Your head was racing with his words. They had been carelessly tossed out without a thought only to be reeled back in, back to the boss you had come to know. They had shocked you. But also intrigued you, you thought. Did he mean it?

After telling the girls the good news, you sat back at your desk for a moment and finished a page of type. As they all filed out and said their goodbyes, you gathered your things but left them on your seat as you went back to John's door.

He stopped in mid pace in the middle of his room as you opened the door. He sighed, as his palms pressed into his eyes. As if to press his brains back in to his head before he did anything stupid.

"I'm fine, really," he said pressing his palms deeper into his eyes. "You can go home."

"I want to help."

John looked at you standing in the doorway. You bit your lip as you watched him watch you. The heat from his hungry eyes made your heart flutter.

"Do I have to say it again?" You asked, your voice stronger than you expected it to be. The longer he stared the more uncertain you felt. You looked down for a moment.

"I--"

John's lips collided into your own as his hand raked into your hair and his hips pressed you into the door. He was hungry, needy, wild. He licked your lip and deepened the kiss. You jolted back to earth as his bit your lip a little too hard. You gasped as you pulled back and his moan was ripped out of your mouth. His hazy blue eyes sharpened as he cupped your face.

"Shit, sorry, doll," he said as he pecked your lips. "You taste so sweet. I got carried away."

You squeezed his forearm and pulled him closer to you again, your skin begging for his touch.

"Kiss me again," you said, watching his eyes light up and an easy smile spread across his face.

He did, and this time he didn't bite you. His hands wandered your frame, expertly memorizing every inch as his kisses made you forget everything but his blue eyes. He lightly tugged on your hair and kissed down your neck, illiciting a moan as he found the spot that made you see stars.

"I could listen to that sound forever," he chuckled into your neck before nipping at the same spot.

You pressed yourself to him as you loosened his tie and pulled his shirt from his trousers.

"Aren't I supposed to be relaxing you?" You laughed before you felt his hand push your skirts up to grab at your thighs.

"Multitasking," he said into your ear and pushed his knee between your legs.

You writhed as he pressed you into the door and you felt the friction he caused at your core. You grabbed his chin and pulled him back to your lips for a kiss as you grinded against his leg without a thought. The pleasure had you. He felt entirely too good against you, and you could not bear to be separated.

"You like grinding, eh?" He chuckled as you gasped when he moved his leg with you and you flushed.

He pulled you from the door, leading you to his desk to sit on top of all the papers. John cupped your face and kissed you so hard you saw stars. You followed as he pulled away, half lidded as he pushed you back onto the desk as he pulled his chair from the corner he had thrown it in.

"Stockings come off, love, before I rip them," he said, setting the chair back in front of you.

"Then rip them," you said lowly as you kicked your heels under his desk and propped a foot on the chair.

"Right," he smiled wolfishly as he sat down between your legs and slipped his hand on your calf and into your skirts. "Come 'ere."

You lifted yourself off the desk for a moment so he could pull your stockings over your ass. John tore them off of you without hesitation and tossed them aside as he ran his rough hands along your legs and up your skirt, pulling you off of the desk and straddling his knee. You purred into his ear.

"Your hands feel so good, John," you rasped. "How do I make you feel good?"

You had no thoughts, no cares, you only wanted more. The world, the room you were in, everything but this feeling and him were static to be ignored. You were lost in lust and couldn't pull yourself out, only through.

You grinded into him and whined as you pulled back to look him in the eye. His eyes were heavy and he cupped your cheek as he pulled you into a kiss.

"Did I need this or do you, doll?" He exhaled a smile as he rested his forehead on yours. "I'm not the only one pent up. Someone hasn't been taking care of you, have they?"

You growled and pressed yourself against him.

"Can you shut up for once in your life?" You gritted your teeth.

"I want to hear it from your lips, doll," he said as he teased you, just out of your reach.

"I want it," you whispered as you rubbed him through his slacks. "I want it. I want it. I want it."

----

Completely spent, John buried his head in her hair for a moment before standing up and fastening his trousers.

"I still have that meeting soon," John said, holding his hand out to help her sit up on the desk. "But after. After I tuck the children in," he kissed her hand, the bracelet catching his eye and causing him to smile. "I want to see you with nothing on but that bracelet. I'm not done. Come over tonight."

She smiled weakly, and he frowned and kissed her hand again. His mind was clear, the fog of cum spent between her legs. The clarity sent warning bells through his brain as he watched her face tighten, her smile artificial and cracking near the corners.

"Or yours," he amended and watched her expression stay the same. "Less chances of interruptions."

He frowned deeper and let go of her hand.

"Did I do something wrong? You're still shaking like a leaf, you can't tell me you didn't--"

"Oy, (Y/N)? John?" Finn's voice echoed outside his office. "Hello?"

John and (Y/N) both froze for a moment as they locked eyes. She gave him a pleading look as she stood up and smoothed her dress back down, slipping her heels back on with effort. John tucked his shirt back in and straightened his tie as she walked to the door and opened it.

"Hey Finn," she smiled weakly, opening the door wide as he strode in. "John was just going over last minute reports before we leave."

"I caught the other ladies down the street," Finn said and eyed his brother. "You're entirely unfair keeping (Y/N) while the rest are allowed to run off for the day. She works so hard for you already, you should appreciate her more."

"I suggested it," (Y/N) cut in as John frowned and opened his mouth. "To get a leg up for tomorrow. But we're done here, so I really should head home. John, good luck with your meeting. I hope I helped."

John nodded and cleared his throat, his brain growing dark. Is she really pretending like I didn't just take her over my desk, he thought. Surely she's just saving his feelings.

"Right, right," he said as he shoved his hands in his pockets. "Have a nice evening, (Y/N)."

"Can I walk you home?" Finn smiled at her as he asked. "Maybe take you to an early dinner?"

John's jaw set as she gave him one last pleading glance before smiling and nodding to Finn, nestling her arm in his.

"I'd love that," she said, her voice shaky as she looked back to John. "I'll see you tomorrow, Mr. Shelby."

John's heart dropped as Finn led her out of his office. He sank into his chair and settled his face into his hands.

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