#but yeah as always I’ve left mikey till last I’ll have to do a quick 2012 mikey to complete the set

[seagull-scribbles]

A day after valentine's, but here's a simp

[effortlessly-bored]

The Bucket List - Michael Gray

Chapter 1 l Chapter 2 l Chapter 3

After her meeting with Thomas, Emma had felt particularly triumphant; so, she decided to buy herself a new pair of shoes. They were black leather with a small heel and laces. The woman at the shop had promised her that they would last in Birmingham. Emma begged her neighbour to let her use the phone to call her dad, her nerves amplifying her homesickness. It was a short but sweet conversation, mostly it was just her dad telling her how proud he was. Emma worried about her father a lot, he was different since her mother passed. Emma’s father sounded slightly rushed on the phone like he had somewhere important to be; which was unusual for him.

The rest of her evening consisted of two hours at the Garrison before Harry told her to go home and have a good night's rest before her first day. Emma made herself stew for dinner. It took her thirty minutes to pick and iron her outfit for the next day. Emma made sure everything was ready to go the next morning before she went to bed that night. She didn’t actually fall asleep till the early morning, to unsure and nervous about what the next day would hold for her with both school and Michael.

Meanwhile, Michael was a frantic mess trying to get everything ready to impress Emma the next day. As soon as she left his office he ran into Tommy’s, begging to let him borrow his cousin’s brand new Rolls Royce. After Tommy agreed, Michael ran home to try and find the perfect outfit. He knew she didn’t like his super flashy suits and he wanted to try and play it cool so he chose a more casual choice. Mickey dug through his drawers until he found his favourite tie (it was a colour that Emma had said, and he quotes, “looks super” on him). He took a quick bath and set his alarm for six the next morning, wanting to be ready for everything. Michael didn’t fall asleep till the early morning; to excited to do right by Emma and anxious to see if they could go back to what they once were to relax.

Michael was outside of Emma’s flat fifteen minutes early. He had run to the bakery before arriving, picking up some pastries for her. Emma never ate breakfast. Mickey made sure he looked okay in the side mirror of the car and checked his watch.

He only waited a few minutes before Emma came out. She had a bright smile on her face as did Michael. He recognized the dress she was wearing, it was a blue button-up on top and a navy skirt. She had a beautiful pair of brand new shoes on and half her hair was pinned up.

The first thing Emma noticed was his tie, it was a dark red and brought out his eyes. His suit was more casual and relaxed, making Emma slightly less anxious.

“I like your tie, brings out your eyes,” Emma spoke.

“Thanks, your shoes look nice,” Michael said stuffing his hands in his pockets.

“Really? You don’t think they’re too manly?” They were rather masculine.

Michael scoffed, “No! They’re nice, strong, and they’ll last you. Perfect for you.”

There was a short pause. “Is this really your car?”

“Yeah, um, well… no.” Michael finally admits. “I have a car, an Aston actually, but when you said you’d never been in one before, I asked Tommy to borrow this one. He only bought it a month ago.”

Emma walked around the vehicle in pure astonishment, Michael following close behind. Michael opened the door for Emma to get in. He quickly jogged around the front of the car, hopping into the driver’s seat. “Those are for you,” Michael said, pointing to the pastries.

“You didn’t have to do that, Michael.” Emma sighed. She had a sneaking suspicion he was trying very hard to impress her; he even wore his hair her favourite way. The pastries did smell fantastic.

“Please, I know you never eat breakfast; and you need to keep your strength up for today,” Michael explained, starting the engine.

Emma begrudgingly took one, surprised he remembered so many little details about her. It was delicious.

“So, how much does your mother hate me?” Emma asked, after she finished chewing in an attempt to avoid silence.

“Michael let out a slight laugh. “I wouldn’t know, she left to visit my cousin, Ada, in London after she saw me yesterday.”

“Jesus, how many cousins do you have?”

“Ada’s the last one. You’d like her though, she’s a bit of a suffragette like you. She’s got a son, Carl; cute kid.” Michael took his eyes off the road for a second to look at Emma. She looked like joy; smiling wide, eyes bright and sparkly. Her cheeks were flushed and there was a small piece of pastry by the side of her mouth. Nevertheless, she was unabashed and visibly excited.

“Did you end up writing your mum… your adoptive one?”

“No, I haven’t been able to yet. But I looked at the photo, framed it even. The boys look great; tall and buff. They look so grown up.”

“Yeah, James grew a full foot one summer. He’s planning to on going to uni, you know? Wants to be an animal doctor.”

“What about Paul?”

“Last time I saw him he was alright. Got into some trouble at school after you left, but he’s alright now.”

Mikey gave a short grunt before the conversation went into a slough.

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Anything, always,” Michael replied, turning a corner.

“Why do you hate George Palmroy so much? I just, I’ve been thinking about it and for the life of me I can’t remember a time when you two were civil to each other.”

“Oh, you don’t wanna know about that…”

“Yeah, I really do, Michael.”

“You sure? It was really nothing I swear.”

“Michael, if it was just nothing you wouldn’t be this defensive. Just tell me for God sakes.”

Michael sighed before he said, “Ok fine, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. Do you remember when we were young and your grandparents came to visit and they gave you a dreidel?”

Emma almost never talked about her mother’s heritage. It wasn’t that she was ashamed, she just knew that her mother didn’t like to talk about it. Both of Emma’s grandparents on her mum’s side were Jewish, technically making Emma half. Her mother was never very devout, and when she married Emma’s father she found it was easier to just go to church instead of dealing with the judgment of people in the countryside. Emma’s Bubbe and Zayde still tried to teach her a few things before they passed away.

“Yeah, they were there for Hanukkah.”

“When you brought that dreidel into class, I remember how proud and excited you were about it. And you taught me how to play during break in the courtyard.”

“Yeah, I beat you every time.” Emma teased, smiling fondly at the memory.

“I still think you were cheating.”

“I was not! But, what does this have to do with George?”

“Well, when you went to the washroom George fucking Palmroy came over and started mouthing off to me about you being Jewish.” Michael’s knuckles turned white around the steering wheel as he spoke. “God, I’m so happy you never heard any of it, some of the things he said were just so vile, Em. I kicked the shit out of him for that, wanted to do it every time I saw him since them.” Emma had heard Michael like this before, tense, violent and angry. It usually didn’t last long.

"Thank you,” she squeaked out as Michael composed himself.

Less than a minute later, the Rolls Royce was parked outside ivy-covered gate. It was the first bit of greenery Emma had seen since she moved. Dozens of students were making their way in through the gates, all with a similar air of anxiousness.

It was a weird moment for Michael because he could remember wanting nothing more than being one of those students with Emma. He had imagined them walking through those gates together a million times, and now she was going alone.

Emma was almost wishing he could come with her. The university was feeling more and more daunting by the minute.

“I brought my camera,” Michael said. “ I thought I could take a photo for you to send to your dad.”

“Really? That’s so thoughtful, thank you, Michael.”

“S’no problem.” He mumbled, grabbing the camera from the back seat.

Emma got out of the car, praying that her legs would stop shaking. Michael took a snapshot of her smiling in front of the main gate. He was absolutely sure it would be a beautiful photo.

“What time is your last class?”

“Um, it ends at half-past two.”

“I’ll meet you here then, yeah?”

“Oh, Michael I couldn’t trouble you like that.”

“It’s really no problem, I’ll just take you to the Garrison after.”

“Ok, but promise to figure out how to get here on my own tomorrow. I feel like such a burden.”

“Emma, you have never been and will never be a burden; trust me on that.” Michael answered. “Alright, well I better get going. You’re going to do great today.”

Emma quickly enveloped Michael in a hug, hanging on for dear life. It was the same as every hug they had before, Michael putting his arms around her and Emma resting her head on his shoulder. He rubbed her back gently, trying to calm down the nerves he knew she was having. A small tear went down her cheek.

“Just remember, if anyone tries to fuck with you just tell them you’re part of the Peaky Blinders, yeah?” He whispered in her ear.

Emma let out a small laugh, wiping her tears. “I don’t think telling people I’m part of a gang will get me a lot of friends.”

“Fuck these posh pricks, you have all the friends you need in Small Heath. You’re going to do great, Em, I’m so proud of you.”

“Thank you, Michael,” Emma said, waving goodbye as she walked into the school.

[unify-my-universe]

More of Mikey goodness...

She was just about to go back to sleep for a bit when someone knocked on the door.

Surprisingly enough the knock didn’t wake Michael up so Penny had to answer the door. It was John.

“Oh Penny wasn’t expecting you to answer the door.”

“Yeah I’ve slept with Michael the past couple of days. You okay?”

“Oh yeah, fine, fine. I’ve been summoned by Terry, well Terry Jones to get you and Michael up. Apparently we’re filming The Witch Village Scene so that’ll please Mike.”

“Why would it?”

“Well the scene involves having our faces covered in dirt, I suppose it won’t be too bad.”

“Oh no, well people in the medieval times were quite dirty! Hygiene was limited after all!”

“Yes, yes that’s very true. Anyway I’d hurry up getting ready if I were you, you know what Jonesy’s like for punctuality!”

“I will do, see you in a bit John.”

To her surprise, Michael was still asleep so had the job of waking him up. She really didn’t want to disturb him!

“Michael? John’s just been at the door, we gotta get up now. Terry Jones’s orders!”

“Mm? Oh okay love I’ll let you go and get ready.”

Penny went to go and get ready in her room and accompanied Michael in the car to the film set.

“Ah there you are Mike, Penny. Mike I want you to put as much dirt on your face as possible and Penny if you can go to Hazel, she’ll sort you out with your costume for today.” Said Terry J.

Penny’s costume didn’t look particularly flattering but the thing she really wasn’t looking forward to was having her face covered in dirt! She put the bare minimum of dirt. When Michael came up to her, she laughed in his face.

“Michael I get people in the medieval times were dirty but don’t you think you’re going a little overboard?”

She noticed that John too had gone a bit crazy with the dirt whereas Eric on the other hand had like her put the bare minimum of dirt on his face.

Penny’s lines were simple in this scene. She had to shout lines like a witch, a witch! And burn her, burn her!

Today however Eric, John and Michael had got the serious case of the giggles to the point where Eric had to bite into his scythe to stop himself from laughing! Penny for once was being completely professional although it was hard not to join in with the giggling!

She hadn’t got a clue what they were even laughing at but it was nice to see them having fun for a change as opposed to bickering at each other.

Still they managed to film the scene in one take so filming was over pretty quickly. Penny couldn’t believe it was going to be her last day in Scotland. Back to her dreary flat for a few months…

She supposed the wait would be worth it since she was going to marry THE Michael Palin. She wondered what kind of house Michael lived in. Probably a lot nicer than her flat! That wasn’t exactly difficult.

“Honestly what is up with you guys? You’ve been giggling throughout this entire take!”

“Well gotta make light of the situation!” said Eric.

Michael was also aware that this was Penelope’s last night here. He wanted to make sure it was one to remember.

With thanks to a recommendation from Eric on a French restaurant complete with the perfect romantic ambiance, Michael treated Penny to a posh meal topped by a romantic walk by one of Scotland’s many lochs.

Like where Michael proposed to Penny only a couple of days ago, they had the loch to themselves.

“Can’t believe you’re going back home tomorrow…”

“I know. The time has gone so fast but I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

“I’m glad love. I will miss you Penelope. When I want to really strangle the guys I’ll be thinking of the next time I see you.”

“I’ll miss you too Michael. When I’m stuck at a boring desk having to deal with silly members of the public, I’ll be thinking of you always.”

“Oh, well since we’re here do you fancy a dip?”

“Uh with our clothes on?”

“No naked silly…”

“I don’t know Michael…”

“What you scared of? The Loch Ness monster?”

“No for goodness sake Michael, that’s only a legend and even if it was real it’s been sighted in the Scottish Highlands not round here…”

“You know sometimes Penelope you really put me to shame with your historical knowledge. What period of history did you study in your degree?”

“Modern history like yourself I believe?”

“Yes I did study modern history. Though who knows? In about 30/40 years time, people at university studying history could be learning about the Two World Wars.”

“Yes perhaps…”

“So you gonna join me for a quick swim?”

“Won’t it be cold?”

“Well yeah a bit but I’ll keep you warm.”

“What if someone comes?”

“Penelope no one will come, we’ve got this place to ourselves!”

Michael at this point had started to undress himself until he was completely naked. Penny marvelled at the sight. And it was all hers to enjoy…

Michael jumped in and flinched out how cold the water was.

“Bloody hell it’s as cold as the shower at the hotel! Come on Penelope, you know you want to…”

Michael’s tone of voice had immediately convinced her.

God damn it why did he have to be so persuasive?

Penny slowly took off her clothes, looking each direction to see if anyone was coming. It seemed Michael was right and they’d got the place to themselves.

“Wow my wife-to-be really is a sight to behold!”

Penny slowly jumped in and was caught smoothly by Michael.

“Oh my god, oh my god Michael! It’s so cold!”

Michael wrapped his arms around Penny’s waist pulling her close to him.

“I know love but you’ll soon get used to the temperature.”

“Do you usually do completely mad things?”

“No only when I’m with you. It seems you have that effect on me…”

“Well I’m flattered Michael but I guess I already knew you were completely and utterly mad!”

Michael encouraged Penny to swim with her and after a while she didn’t feel so cold. Begrudgingly she accepted Michael was right.

She quite enjoyed the swim, it had been ages since she had been swimming! Swimming was one of her hobbies when she was at university. The only good thing her parents ever did was invest in some swimming lessons for her!

“Well, well Penelope I have to say I am impressed by your swimming technique!”

“Not bad for someone who hasn’t swam since she left university! Probably the only good thing my parents ever did was to pay for me to have swimming lessons!”

Just as they were getting into the groove of swimming a few lengths in the loch a torch shone in both their faces.

“Everything alright, sir? Madam?”

It was a police officer. Penny gave Michael the dirtiest look ever.

I’m going to kill you Michael.

Penny let Michael do the talking.

“Um yes, yes everything’s fine officer.”

“Hey don’t I know your face from somewhere?”

“Umm you might do?”

“Yeah I know your face, you’re from that TV programme Monty Python! You’re Michael Palin aren’t you?”

“Yes yes I am. Are we trespassing officer?”

“Oh no, no not at all. I was just checking that your wee lass wasn’t injured at all!”

“No no I’m fine we’re just um, going for a quick dip?” said Penny.

“Aye so I see… Well I’ll leave you two lovebirds to it then.”

As soon as the police officer had gone, Penny punched Michael in the arm hard.

“Ahh that hurt!”

“Oh there won’t be anyone about, goes to show how much you know! I had visions of us being arrested for indecent exposure! That would have looked good front page of the newspapers, Python Michael Palin arrested for skinny dipping in Loch! Honestly Michael I could have killed you.”

“Oh calm down Penelope, you have to admit it was quite funny.”

“Oh well I’m glad you found it so amusing!”

Michael then started to laugh uncontrollably. Michael’s laugh really was infectious so Penny found herself laughing with him till she too couldn’t stop laughing.

“Honestly Michael you’re such an idiot.”

“Ah but you love me.”

“Yes I do, very much!”

She kissed him on the lips and wrapped her legs around his waist.

“You really shouldn’t do things like that Penelope…”

“Oh yeah? Why’s that?”

“Because it’ll be very hard for me to resist temptation!”

“Oh well we can’t have that Sir Galahad can we?”

Penny wrapped her legs even tighter around Michael’s waist, she started stroking Michael’s now wet hair.

“No I’m sworn to chastity!”

Michael and Penny had promised each other that no sex would happen until they got married which was very hard when one was prone to tease the other. Penny didn’t want any unexpected surprises before she got married!

“Well Sir Galahad we’d better get back to the hotel, early start and all!”

“I agree my fair maiden! Right well I uh better get the towels out of the car.”

“What like this?”

“It’ll be fine, it’s not like anyone will be about.”

“You said that last time and you saw what happened…”

To Penny’s surprise, Michael came back with the towels without anything out of the ordinary happening. Penny breathed a sigh of relief!

Penny and Michael dried themselves off with a towel and put their clothes back on. They headed back to the car and straight to bed.

Both woke up relatively early so Michael could help Penny pack and load up her car.

“I don’t really want to say goodbye.” Said Michael.

She put her hand on top of his and squeezed it tightly.

“I know.”

“Don’t miss me too much!”

“I’ll try not to.” Said Penny.

“Michael?”

“Yes?”

“Make sure you tell your mother the good news.”

“I will love.”

 Penny got into the car and wound the window down. She reached over to Michael, gave him a kiss and drove off.

The next few months were pretty boring for Penny. She worked a lot of hours at the library even though she got quite a good wage packet for her part in The Holy Grail. Probably down to Michael, she thought.

Michael also had a boring few months. The arguing amongst the Pythons had gotten worse, especially between the two Terry’s and John and Terry G. It had got so bad between John and Terry that John had told him to piss off. So for a while they stayed out of each other’s ways!

So Michael was quite glad when his scenes were over and he could go and visit Penelope. Before she went Penny had given him her phone number and address.

Therefore when Michael got back home he rang her up straight away.

“Hello?”

“Oh Penelope am I glad to hear your voice!”

“Michael hi! God I’ve missed you. You okay?”

“Yeah I’m fine, just glad to be home!”

“I bet! So when are you planning on coming over?”

“Tomorrow if that’s okay?”

“Sounds great, any idea what time?”

“Mid-morning?”

“Okay well I’ll make sure I’m up early! Can’t wait to hear about the rest of your filming!”

“Mm I bet, anyway love I’d better go as I’ve just got in and I want to unpack and have a proper shower!”

“I understand that completely love, see you tomorrow!”

Penny put the phone down and smiled. How she loved hearing Michael’s voice, she couldn’t wait to see him tomorrow.

She immediately started tidying up the apartment the best she could, dusting, hoovering and cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. She didn’t know why she was making such an effort for him… Like he was going to notice!

She supposed it was because she wanted to prove to him she was capable of making a nice home for him. Though Michael didn’t give the impression he wanted her to be a housewife!

Michael couldn’t wait to spend a few days with Penny, he deserved a break after putting up with the Pythons for the past two months! The wedding was already booked, the honeymoon too now all they had to sort out was what they were wearing!

However Michael wanted to make the next few days absolutely perfect for Penny. He knew she had been working really hard as of late and wanted to treat her. The big problem was, he wasn’t too familiar with Birmingham so how could he spoil her if he didn’t know where to take her?

He reckoned Eric might know of good places to take her as he was pretty knowledgeable on the best places to take girls! There was a reason why Eric had a reputation for being a lady’s man!

So he decided to ring Eric up.

“Hello?”

“Hi Eric it’s me.”

“Oh hi Mike, got back alright then?”

“Oh yeah fine, listen Eric I need your advice.”

“Go ahead Mike I’m all ears!”

“Well I’m going to see Penelope up in Birmingham for a few days and I want to treat her and—"

“You don’t know where to take her?”

“Yeah.”

“Well I know there are probably some nice restaurants in The Bullring you know the shopping centre?”

“What about local attractions?”

“Well you could take her to see a show? There’s the Birmingham Hippodrome and since you’re both into history take her to Kenilworth Castle, that’s not far from Birmingham.”

“Thanks Eric, I just want to make the next few days really perfect for her.”

“I understand Mike, well I’ll see you soon!”

Perfect. Michael had got the next few days all planned. Tomorrow night he’d take her to a fancy restaurant, maybe a bit of shopping, the next day take her to Kenilworth Castle then a show of her choice at The Hippodrome and finally to Shakespeare’s Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.

The last day would be spent sorting out their wedding outfits. Maybe they were leaving it a bit last minute but they had been so busy with work, they just hadn’t had the time to find a dress and suit.

Penny still hadn’t sorted out her bridesmaids. It was a difficult job as she hadn’t got any friends. Well except Carol and maybe Connie.

She decided to ring up Carol first.

“Hello?”

“Hello is that Carol? It’s Penny.”

“Oh hi Penny, I heard the good news. Congratulations! You’re certainly a lucky girl bagging Michael!”

“Thank you. I’m very lucky! Anyway I wanted to talk to you about the wedding.”

“Oh yes?”

“Well I’m estranged from my parents and I haven’t really got any friends so I wondered whether you wanted to be my bridesmaid and help me find a dress?”

“Why Penny of course I will! What day were you thinking of buying a dress?”

“Friday morning? I imagine Michael will be sorting out his suit on the same day as well. I think he’s asked Eric to help him.”

“Yes that sounds fine.”

“Great well I’ll see you Friday then! Oh don’t suppose you could meet me in Birmingham? I can just meet you at the train station and we’ll go to The Bullring?””

“Yes yes of course, Birmingham New Street right?”

“Yes that’s the one.”

“Yep so meet you at the station at about quarter past 10?”

“Yes that sounds great!”

Penny put the phone down and called Connie. She really hoped John wouldn’t answer the phone… She hadn’t told Connie about John having some form of feelings for her as it wasn’t like he’d tried it on with her.

“Hello?” answered a soft American voice.

“Hi is that Connie? It’s Penny, Michael’s fiancée?”

“Oh yes hi Penny. What can I do for you?”

“Well I was wondering whether you’d be one of my bridesmaids? I’ve already asked Carol you see and well you’re the only friends I’ve got other than the Pythons.”

“Why yes I’d love to Penny!”

“Great!”

Penny definitely felt more organised now. She ran herself a hot bath before heading to bed. She fell asleep with the thoughts of seeing Michael again and becoming his wife.

Michael couldn’t sleep as he was too excited about seeing Penny tomorrow. He remembered that he hadn’t sorted out who was going to be his Best Man so he rang up Terry J.

“Alright Terry?”

“Mike why on earth are you ringing at this time for? It’s nearly midnight!”

“Sorry Terry, having trouble sleeping I’m seeing Penelope tomorrow you see so I’m really excited! Anyway the reason why I was ringing is I wanted to ask you whether you could be my Best Man?”

“You rang me up at this time to ask me to be your Best Man?”

“Yes I know it’s late but I just wanted to feel organised. Penelope will go mad if I haven’t sorted out one of the most important parts of the wedding!”

“Mm but Mike you don’t even need to ask course I’ll be your Best Man, now go to sleep!”

“Night Terry.”

Michael and Penny were up very early, with Michael making the drive to Birmingham from London and Penny doing some last minute cleaning of the flat.

To make the long journey more bearable, Michael blasted some tunes with the windows down. Before he knew it he’d reached Birmingham. He spotted Penny’s car a mile off and parked next to it.

He walked to the building and pressed the buzzer.

The buzzer went and Penny immediately knew it was Michael. She gave him a few minutes to come up the stairs and he gently knocked on her flat door. She let him in.

He was stood at the door in a white shirt and flared trousers. His hair looked like it needed a bit of a cut as his fringe was longer than ever. She went up to him, wrapped his arms around his neck and kissed him deeply.

“Bloody hell give me chance to get through the door!”

She started to mess with his hair.

“Your hair needs a cut. Hope it’ll be cut in time for the wedding!”

“Don’t worry love it will be.”

Michael inspected the flat. It looked immaculate but then again he didn’t expect anything less from Penelope. Everything was all open plan which made the flat feel bright and airy.

“Wow Penelope it looks very tidy in here!”

“Haha you sound surprised! Actually it’s extra tidy today because I wanted to make an effort for you.”

“So just a one bedroom is it?”

“Yeah I have no need for another bedroom well except for like a storage room or something. But I don’t have that much stuff so moving out should be easy.”

“Mm so can I have a grand tour?”

“Of course dear.”

Though there wasn’t much to see Penny gave as much of an extensive tour of the flat as she possibly could. Then she got to her bedroom. Oh shit, she forgot about the many Michael posters on her wall…

“Well, well this is a turn up for the books. It seems I’m marrying a woman who is completely and utterly obsessed with me.”

“I was going to take the posters down before you came but it just completely slipped my mind. I was worried you’d think I’d got a screw loose somewhere.”

“Now why would I think that?”

He put his hands around her waist.

“I don’t know because I’m worried about losing you?”

“Penelope I love you for god’s sake. Actually I’m rather flattered if not slightly embarrassed that my future wife has pictures of me in her bedroom. Well least I know you’re definitely in love with me!”

“Of course I am Michael. Now what did you want to do today?”

“Well first my love I want to unpack then you could give me a tour of your hometown?”

“Alright then, sounds good!”

So Penny helped Michael to unpack and they set off into the city centre. Penny quite enjoyed giving Michael a guided tour as every time she went past a building of significance Penny told Michael about the history of the place. Local history was Penny’s speciality!

After the sightseeing, they went into The Bullring only for some window shopping because Michael wanted to spoil her later after the meal then they headed back to the flat to chill for a few hours.

Penny put the television on and they both sat on the sofa. Michael put his arms around her and started to gently stroke her shoulder.

“You know if someone was to say to me a month ago that I would be marrying my favourite Python I’d think they’d gone mad!”

“Well I suppose it has been a bit of a whirlwind romance hasn’t it?”

“Yes it has but I don’t regret any of it!”

They sat watching the telly for a while until Michael said that he was taking her somewhere nice for dinner.

Penny therefore made a great deal of effort in her makeup and outfit choice. Michael did the same, he was fully suited and booted!

She’d never seen Michael in a suit in person before. Of course she’d seen him wear one in many of the Python sketches but seeing him wear one in person was much nicer!

“Mm aren’t you the most handsome man in the world?”

“Mm aren’t you the most beautiful woman in the world?”

Penny tousled up his hair.

“Oh Michael you’re so sweet!”

Luckily Penny’s flat was within close proximity from the city centre so they just walked there. Penny had never been to the restaurant Michael was taking her probably because she couldn’t afford it. She wondered how Michael even had knowledge of restaurants in Birmingham then she guessed that Eric might have had something to do with it.

Michael insisted on paying for the meal, saying that she deserved to be treated.

“Honestly Michael this is the nicest meal I’ve ever tasted but you should have let me pay my half!”

“Penelope I’ve told you, this is my treat!”

“Hm well okay Michael.”

Then they went shopping, Michael took Penny into a jewellery shop and told her to pick any piece of jewellery she wanted. After much reluctance from Penny that she wasn’t worth spending this much money on, she decided on a necklace. A gold necklace with a love heart on it. It was quite expensive!

After some more shopping, they headed back to the flat. It gave Penny chance to try on her new necklace.

Michael did the honours of putting the necklace on Penny, he started to kiss her neck delicately. She had to admit she was pretty turned on!

“Oh Michael don’t do that…”

He carried on kissing her neck, slowly and softly. Honestly he was such a tease!

“Why not? I know you love it.”

“Yes I do but how am I meant to save myself until marriage if you tease me like that?”

“Alright love I’ll stop. That necklace suits you, didn’t think you could look any more beautiful but as usual you surprise me.”

“It’s beautiful Michael but so much money. You shouldn’t be wasting your wages on me.”

“If I can’t spend money on my fiancée then what can I spend money on?”

“You’ll have to let me make it up to you.”

“Well that’s up to you love but you don’t need to buy me expensive gifts to prove you love me.”

She stroked his face.

God he really was perfect.

“Hm okay then, well we’d better get off to bed!”

“Yes I am feeling pretty tired and Penelope darling?”

“Yes?”

“Can you perhaps get rid of that picture of me right by my side of the bed? I don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night to my face staring back at me.”

“Haha okay love.”

Penny put what she considered a very cute photo of Michael back in her drawer.

Well I suppose I don’t need all the photos of Michael if I’m going to be marrying the guy!

Both headed to bed straight away, it had been a long day!

They woke up mid-morning and had a shower. Luckily Penny’s flat had an ensuite in her room and a separate bathroom! Michael had been quite secretive of what their plans were for the next few days. This morning all he had said was that they were going to be experiencing some local culture!

She realised where she was straight away. Kenilworth Castle. Although Penny was interested in local history she’d never been to the castle before and had always wanted to go.

The place was stemmed with so much history and Michael took a lot of photographs of the castle and of Penny outside the castle. She really enjoyed herself and being with Michael had made the day pretty perfect.

It had been really nice weather which was to be expected in June. However they were in Britain, where the weather was very unpredictable!

Michael and Penny had even got a slight tan from being out all day. They got back to the flat and Penny decided to cook them both a meal. It was her way of making it up to Michael for spending so much money on her.

Although Michael spoilt her out of love, she was so used to being spoilt as a way of shutting her up. So it was safe to say she wasn’t a fan of people treating her.

They were lying in bed when Penny decided to ask Michael about how the last bit of filming for The Holy Grail went. She was surprised he hadn’t mentioned it earlier! Which made her think that the experience hadn’t been very enjoyable.

“You haven’t told me about how filming went yet, thought you’d be dying to tell me!”

“Ah well the experience hasn’t exactly been the most pleasant. I mean Terry G tried to get me to eat mud for one scene!”

Penny raised her eyebrow slightly.

“Mud?”

“Yeah I was meant to be a mud eater and they were like oh you don’t have to eat real mud we’ll put some chocolate there for you to eat. I went how am I meant to know which is the mud and which is the chocolate? And Terry was like oh you’ll know and I thought what is the point? We had to do so many takes for the bloody thing and I just lost it. Jumped into the mud, started throwing my fists about shouting what is the fucking point. Course Gray and John found it hilarious and started clapping. Don’t think they’d seen me so angry before!”

Even Penny found it funny as she was laughing very much. She wished she’d been there to see it!

“Oh dear, poor baby! So I’m guessing the tensions between you lot hadn’t improved?”

“No, John got even more difficult to work with. Him and Terry G fell out completely at one stage! It’ll be weird doing Flying Circus without John.”

“Well you don’t have to do another series do you? I mean your last series was very good!”

“No but I suppose once it’s out the way I can spend more time with you. We’ve only got enough material for six episodes anyway so it’ll be over before you know it!”

“I think it’s because you’ve been in each other’s pockets for so long you’re sick of each other’s company. It’ll probably do you good to have some space from each other.”

“Yeah I think you’re right love. So do you fancy going to the theatre tomorrow?”

“Ooh yes I’d love to! Haven’t been to the Hippodrome in years! But what do you want to see?”

“Whatever you want to see.”

“Hm well I really want to see Phantom of the Opera.”

“My you are a depressing soul!”

“Oh shut up, the book is really good, so full of emotion and well I like my musicals.”

“Alright well Phantom of the Opera it is!”

In the morning Michael cooked themselves a nice breakfast. To Penny this meant he was very self-sufficient! Was there no end to his talents?

“Right well I’ve booked the tickets for the theatre. 2:30 matinee, thought it would be better for you than in the evening.” Said Michael.

“Oh Michael you’re a star!”

“Yes I suppose I am being a Python!”

“Anyway have you sorted out Terry being your best man?”

“Yes I sorted it out a couple of days ago my love. What about you? You sorted out your bridesmaids?”

“Yep Carol and Connie are going to be my bridesmaid. I’m meeting Carol on Friday to sort out a dress.”

“Connie eh? You might be able to find out what’s going on with her and John when you meet up with her to sort out her bridesmaid’s dress.” Michael said with a wink.

“Michael! I will do no such thing! That’s John and Connie’s business, nothing to do with us. Honestly you’re like one of the Pepperpots wanting to know all the gossip!”

Michael had reminded Penny to contact Connie in the next few days about sorting out a bridesmaid’s dress. Come to think of it, she wasn’t sure what kind of wedding dress she wanted let alone what the bridesmaids should wear!

“Ooh don’t I know it love?” said Michael in his best camp voice.

Even when Penny was slightly annoyed with Michael, his impressions always made her laugh. She always thought Michael was the best out of the Pythons to play a wide range of characters. Or maybe she was just completely biased about her future husband’s talents?

They decided to get some food before they headed to the theatre, luckily there were quite a few restaurants within the vicinity of the theatre. Michael again wanted to pay for the meal but Penny insisted on paying for herself. Michael knew not to try and change her mind!

“Penelope you really don’t have to pay for yourself. I told you, I want to spoil you.”

“I want to. Thing is Michael I have a problem with being spoilt. My parents did it all the time to shut me up. I know you do it because you love me but I just worry if you do it too much you’re doing it because you feel guilty about something.”

She started to look down at her feet. It didn’t matter how often Michael told her he loved her, she was still terrified about losing him. He was famous and what was she? Just a wanna-be actress. He deserved so much better. She worried that he’d meet someone prettier and more talented than her and just leave her. Then she’d be all alone. She couldn’t bear that again.

Michael grasped her chin so she had to look into his eyes.

“Penelope, I know you worry about being alone again but believe me I’m here to stay. You won’t ever, ever be alone again. Anyway why would I want to look elsewhere when I’ve got the most beautiful woman in the world?”

He kissed her deeply. She knew he was right but there were still things that Penny hadn’t told Michael about herself yet. The time would be approaching where she had to tell Michael everything.

“Why have you always got to be right?”

“Because I’m Mr Michael ‘Sexy Pants’ Palin!” Michael said with a wink.

Penny looked at him in horror.

“How did you—"

“Darling you talk in your sleep. I mean I’m presuming you mean me when you say Mr Sexy Pants…”

She turned bright red. She wished the ground would come and swallow her up.

Shit he wasn’t meant to know about that nickname!

“Oh bloody hell now I feel a right idiot.”

“Aw actually I found it rather cute. Well makes a change from being called The Nice Python!”

Michael got them front row seats which meant they had the perfect view. The musical was spectacular though it wasn’t Michael’s cup of tea. He preferred more cheerful musicals and plays. Penny was in tears. She loved every minute of it.

Every time Penny reached for her handkerchief and blew her nose, Michael rolled his eyes.

“Did you actually enjoy that? You were blowing into your handkerchief every time I looked at you!”

“Yeah course I was! I told you it’s a very emotional story.”

“If you say so love.”

“So who’s cooking dinner tonight?” said Penny.

“Well I can if you like?”

“Yeah okay sure. I don’t think I’ve got much food in though.”

“Ah don’t worry about that, leave that to me!”

They quickly head back to the flat. Penny gave Michael her flat key as he was going to the supermarket to buy some food. She didn’t have a clue what he was planning on cooking her, all he said was to trust him on this.

In the meantime Penny decided to ring up Connie to sort out a bridesmaid dress for her.

To her surprise John answered the phone this time.

“Hello?”

“Oh John hi, is Connie there?”

“Yes yes she is. Good to hear from you Penny, how are you?”

“Yeah I’m great thanks. Michael has just gone to the supermarket to buy some food for our dinner tonight.”

John seemed to ignore what she’d said about Michael.

“Good well I’ll go and get her for you. Connie? Penny’s on the phone.”

“Penny hi, hope John wasn’t being too much of a pain.”

“Oh no not all. I wanted to know when you were free in the next few days as I wanted to sort out the bridesmaid dress. As Carol is helping me find a wedding dress, I’ll sort out her dress on the same day.”

“How about Sunday?”

“Yeah sounds great. Are you okay with meeting in Birmingham, say the train station?”

“Yes that’s fine, about 12ish? We could grab some lunch as well?”

“Yeah okay, see you then!”

She hung up before John could try and talk to her again. Penny set the dining room table up to give her something to do.

After another half an hour had gone by, Michael finally returned.

“Bloody hell Michael you were gone for a while. What did you do raid the whole supermarket?”

“Had to get the right ingredients love.”

“I see. Oh I’ve just been on the phone to Connie and I’m meeting her on Sunday to sort out a bridesmaid dress for her.”

“Ooh you are being organised!” Michael said, teasing her slightly.

“Yeah so organised I haven’t a clue what type of wedding dress I want!”

She had to admit it was stressing her out a bit. The wedding was next week!

“Don’t stress Penelope, I’m sure you’ll know when you’ve found the right dress.”

Michael stroked her hair and put his arms around her. It always felt good for her to be Michael’s arms. She felt safe and, well, not alone.

Michael’s preparation on their dinner took a lot longer than expected which meant Penny was absolutely starving. It seemed making food from scratch wasn’t Michael’s forte!

Luckily Penny came to the rescue and dinner was finally served, at 9 o’clock.

“I’m sorry that dinner took so long love, I just wanted to make a really nice dinner for you.”

“I know darling but seriously Michael, you don’t have to put so much effort into impressing me. You impress me enough by being yourself.”

“I suppose I’m making up for the last two months of not seeing you!”

“I know and it’s really sweet of you to make so much effort but you’re not Delia Smith dear. Maybe stick to less complicated dishes?”

“Hmm may be a good idea! So who answered the phone when you rang Connie?”

“John surprisingly.”

“Ah he must be back from Scotland then.”

“Yeah I was telling him you were out buying food for dinner and he just didn’t respond at all when I mentioned you.”

“Hm sounds like things between him and Connie aren’t improving. His mood did seem to get worse when you went.”

“Have you spoken to him about his feelings for me?”

“God no, things were tense enough as it is without something else kicking off!”

After Penny washed up the dinner plates and Michael dried them, they were ready for bed.

It was getting closer to when Penny had to tell Michael everything. It was only fair she was completely honest with him. I mean she was going to be his wife in a matter of days!

Penny woke up the next morning earlier than Michael and opened up her wardrobe. The top of her wardrobe was where she kept important documents. There were some documents that were very important indeed. She reached up and got them. She checked to see if they were all there. To her relief they were. She put them back where they originally were.

Michael stirred from his sleep. By this point Penny had closed the wardrobe door and was sat on Michael’s side of the bed watching him sleep.

“Penelope? What you doing?” he said sleepily.

He rubbed his eyes. Penny smiled. His voice sounded even cuter when he was sleepy.

“Sorry darling did I wake you? I had to go to the toilet then I thought I’d watch my cute husband to be sleep.”

She stroked his hair, moving a piece of hair from his eyes.

Man he really needs have a haircut!

“I see, in any other situation I’d call that creepy but since you’re my fiancée I’ll let you off.”

Penny made her and Michael a cup of tea, had a quick breakfast and were ready to set off on another adventure.

Penny wanted to drive for a change as she felt bad that Michael had been doing all the driving lately. After much persistence on Penny’s part, they went in Penny’s car and drove to Stratford.

It was certainly an experience for Michael as he’d never seen how Penny drove before. Michael thought she was a good driver but had got the feeling that she hadn’t had the car very long. Her clutch control was a bit woolly at times!

“Penelope you didn’t have to drive you know, I wouldn’t have minded driving again.”

“I know but I felt bad that you were doing all the driving. Also it’s one way of getting used to your future wife’s driving!”

Michael did a very successful job of directing Penny to Stratford as she had never been before. She did love Shakespeare though.

Penny spoke about her favourite Shakespeare plays and her memories of studying Shakespeare when she was studying for her O and A Levels.

“God isn’t this place really beautiful?” said Penny.

“Yes, shame you can’t visit the place where Shakespeare wrote his plays.”

“Yes that is a shame, well maybe one day we’ll be able to.”

Michael loved to take pictures of places he’d visited. Though his favourite subject was always Penelope. She was so photogenic and had the most beautiful smile.

“Michael! Are you going to take some photos of the landscape and buildings or you just going to be taking photos of me?”

“I’m not just taking photos of you, you vain creature! Though what can I say darling you were born to be on camera!” Michael said in a camp voice.

He was such an idiot sometimes but Penny loved him even more when he was being very silly. Maybe he was just born to be a very silly person?

After they’d finishing going round the house, they explored the town of Stratford. It was a pretty village. It was somewhere Michael envisaged him and Penelope living in the future. It was quiet and picturesque place to bring up children.

“You know I wouldn’t mind living somewhere like this in the future.” Said Penny.

“Mm I was thinking the same. It’s so quiet isn’t it? And plenty of pubs!”

Penny laughed. She knew Michael liked a drink or two and drank pretty much anything. However Penny had no cause for concern because Michael knew his limits.

They headed back home as Penny wanted Michael to sample the pubs around Birmingham. Before they knew it, they had got pretty drunk though Michael was worse than Penny! Well someone had to be the more sober one!

“Nice place int’it luv?” said Michael.

It seemed Michael let out his inner Yorkshireman when drunk.

“Yeah it’s great. But maybe it’s time to go home.”

“Aww but I’m enjoying myself so much darlingggggg”

Penny rolled her eyes, god he was embarrassing drunk. But hilarious at the same time.

“I know but you can enjoy yourself at home too. Come on we can grab something to eat on the way back.”

“Aw you’re no fun anymore!”

God now he’s making Python references, definitely time to go home!

They stopped off at the local chippy and as soon as Michael got some food down him, he felt sober.

“I embarrassed you didn’t I, in the pub?”

“Hm maybe a little.”

“I’m sorry Penelope, sometimes I go a bit overboard with the drinking sometimes!”

“Michael it’s fine, you are allowed to let your hair down every now and then. I’m not going to stop you from having fun.”

They settled down on the sofa for the night and finally discussed some of the honeymoon plans Michael had arranged. Michael after all had been quite secretive about where they were going. All he’d told Penny was that they were staying somewhere in this country for the first week and the next week they were going somewhere exotic.

“So am I going to find out any more about this honeymoon? You’ve been very secretive about it!”

“Well I was thinking we could go to this little Caravan Park in Devon then the week after somewhere nice and hot.”

“Yes but where?”

Michael tapped his nose.

“Ah you’ll have to wait and see.”

As much as Penny liked surprises, she didn’t like being kept in the dark about her honeymoon! But she trusted that Michael had picked somewhere they would both love.

They had an early night as tomorrow was a very important day.

“Have you rang Eric about meeting tomorrow to get your suit?”

“Shit, knew I’d forgotten something.”

Penny sighed and handed Michael the receiver for the phone in their bedroom.

“Well do it now. Honestly Michael you’re so forgetful sometimes…”

She left Michael to speak with Eric, as she knew how annoying Michael found people telling him what to say whilst on the phone.

She hadn’t fully witnessed the Palin wrath yet but there had been times when Michael had lost his temper a bit.

It was usually the little things that annoyed Michael, well he was a sensitive person.

Penny still had no idea what kind of wedding dress she wanted. Well Carol’s presence would be useful as Penny wasn’t the best on knowing what style best suited her figure. Maybe Michael was right that she’d know when she’d found the perfect dress.

Michael came out of the room to indicate that he’d sorted out meeting with Eric tomorrow.

“Done it?”

“Yep. You didn’t have to go out the room you know.”

“Well I know you get annoyed when I try and tell you what to say whilst you’re on the phone. One of your pet hates!”

“Oh yes that’s true. You do have a habit of doing that!”

Both fell asleep straight away but Michael and Penny were both very nervous about tomorrow.

Penny was up earlier than Michael and went to meet Carol at the train station.

They went round a number of bridal shops but still Penny couldn’t find the perfect dress. On the plus side she had managed to help find Carol a bridesmaid dress. A yellow coloured shift dress with small white flowers around the neck. Well Carol had got the legs for it…

Penny wasn’t quite sure if that type of dress would suit Connie but she hoped it would. After all the bridesmaids had to wear the same style dress!

Michael on the other hand was having much better luck than Penny, the only difficult decision he had to make was what colour tie to wear!

“What do you think Eric pink or blue?” said Michael, holding a tie in each hand.

“Pink’s a bit bright for a wedding Mike!”

“I thought the colour suited me.”

“You want something a little subtle otherwise you’ll outshine the bride and, well, you can’t have that!”

“Mm you’re right Eric, well blue it is then! Fancy a pint after I’ve paid for this?”

“Thought you’d never ask Mike!”

After a good half an hour browsing through the shop, Penny thought she’d found it. The perfect dress. It was made out of chiffon with crochet lace around the chest, neck and bottom of the dress. It looked quite vintage which was perfect for Penny as she’d always loved clothes from the past.

Carol urged Penny to try it on and it really suited her. She bought a petticoat to emphasise the fullness of the skirt. She complimented the look with a longish veil.

“Oh Penny you’re going to look absolutely stunning in that dress, it’s just so you!”

“Thanks Carol. I wonder if Michael has managed to get a suit yet?”

“Oh I suspect that him and Eric are in the pub now!”

Penny could probably guess which pub he’d taken Eric as him and Penny did have a sort of regular pub they’d go to after they’d been out somewhere.

Carol accompanied Penny to the pub that she suspected Michael and Eric were in and her suspicions were proved correct.

“Penny! Carol! Good to see you both. How did you know we were in here?” said Eric.

“Well let’s just say my fiancé is very predictable in terms of what watering holes he samples.” Penny said with a wink.

Penny sat next to Michael, her arm around his neck.

“So how did you get on love? Managed to get a dress in the end?”

“Yes eventually. Got a lovely bridesmaid dress didn’t we Carol?”

“Oh yes, though not as lovely as the bride’s dress!”

“When do you collect it?”

“Sunday. What about your suit?”

“Tomorrow.”

Penny started stroking his hair. She was hoping Michael was going to go to the hairdressers sometime soon!

“I do hope you’re going to have your hair cut sometime in the next few days!”

“Don’t worry my love, I’m going to sort that out tomorrow.”

“Well make sure you do!”

Eric and Carol looked at each other and smiled. They really were a cute couple both of them thought.

“Bloody hell she’s nagging me already!”

“Ha well me and Carol will take that as our cue to leave! Don’t want to be caught up in the middle of a domestic! See you Penny see you at the wedding!”

Penny gave Eric and Carol a hug and a kiss on each cheek before they headed to the train station.

They walked back to the flat hand in hand. It had been a pretty productive day for both of them.

“Oh Michael forgot to say that work rang me whilst you were asleep. They want me to do a shift tomorrow and on Sunday afternoon. I said I’d do it because well it’s good of them to give me so much time off work for the wedding and honeymoon.”

“Yeah that’s fine love, gives me time to sort out a few things for the wedding. Like a haircut for instance?”

She kissed Michael on the cheek.

“Thank you dear.”

It was getting even more difficult for Michael and Penny to save themselves till Monday, Penny wanted Michael and Michael wanted Penny.

Though Michael might not want her after she told him everything.

Penny had to be up early for work so left Michael in bed as he looked too peaceful for her to wake him up. She was doing a full shift today but as the library was closed on Sundays she only had to be in on the afternoon tomorrow to help sort out the new books that had come in.

So Michael was left to his own devices all day Saturday. He decided to get his hair cut. As he knew if he didn’t, he’d have Penelope on his back! He also went to collect his suit and hung the bag the suit was in, in his side of the wardrobe.

He’d told the barber that he only wanted a trim as ‘his girl liked it long’.

Penny meanwhile was busy dealing with ‘wonderful’ members of the public. Well when she meant wonderful she was being sarcastic. She had one person who just couldn’t accept that there wasn’t a book that they wanted in the library. She made Penny check multiple times to find this book, believing it was an error on the library’s part, that it had been put in the wrong section. Even when Penny said to her politely that they didn’t have that book and that she’d have to try another library, she wasn’t having any of it.

Penny felt like strangling her.

God kill me now! I bet Michael is having a much better time than me! Wonder if he’s missing me as much as I’m missing him?

Michael however was pretty bored. There was only so much watching telly he could do! He thought about doing something useful but what?

He tidied up the flat a bit though to be fair it was pretty clean anyway. He knew that Penny finished at half 5 so wanted to make sure dinner was ready for her by the time she got back. After last time’s experience he knew not to make anything from scratch!

After that pesky customer eventually went away, the rest of the day was pretty good. She liked helping people find a good book, especially books that were historical. She also enjoyed recommending similar books to what they had borrowed. She’d certainly read a few books in her time!

She knew that Michael was an avid reader too, he really was her soul mate.

Michael quickly went to the local florist and bought a bouquet of roses. He found a clear vase and put one of the roses in it. He placed the vase in the middle of the dining room table. Was Penny even a flower person? He just wanted to show his love for her without overdoing it. He knew how much she hated being spoilt!

Finally her shift ended and she could get home! She’d missed Michael so much and was looking forward to seeing him again. The poor guy must have been so bored all day!

She turned the key into the front door and opened it. The smell of food hit her and she looked over to the dining room table where there were two plates of food not long come out of the oven. In the middle of the table was a bouquet of flowers with a small piece of paper attached.

She dropped her handbag on the sofa and picked up the paper.

Thought you’d might like these flowers and your tea on the table when you got back from work. Just popped to the shop to get something.

All my love,

Michael X

Man he really is the most adorable man in the world.

She sat at the table and waited for Michael to return. He came back a few minutes later with a bottle in his hand.

“You read my note then?”

“Mm I did, what’s the special occasion?”

“Well there is our upcoming wedding and I thought you’d had a hard day so thought I’d treat you. I took on board the fact that you don’t like to be overly spoilt so I thought I’d be more subtle.”

“The flowers are beautiful, thank you Michael and the food looks good too!”

“Well only the best for you love. So shall I crack open the bottle?”

“Yes please! I think I need a glass or two after the day I’ve had!”

“Oh dear has it been a bit of a day for you?”

“Just difficult customers from time to time! Other than that, it hasn’t been too bad of a day.”

“Well you’re home now and you can relax.”

“Very true my darling!”

Penny and Michael had a few glasses of white wine between them which of course made them very sleepy. Michael was holding Penny in his arms when she fell asleep.

Michael woke up suddenly and saw Penny in a deep sleep, her hair messy and mascara under her eyes. She looked absolutely shattered. Michael moved a strand of hair from her eyes and kissed her forehead.

“My angel.” Michael said to himself.

Eventually Michael carried Penny to bed and then went to sleep himself. Tomorrow would be his last day as a bachelor.

Penny although excited that she would be finally getting rid of her awful parents’ surname, was worried after what she was going to tell Michael tomorrow. He may not even want to marry or even be with her any more.

Penny went to meet Connie and surprisingly enough Connie was happy to wear that style of dress, much to Penny’s relief! Penny also went to collect her wedding dress. Much to Michael’s disgust, Penny kept it very secret the style of dress that she’d chosen!

Although Penny didn’t know Connie as well as she knew Carol, Connie was being surprisingly open about her marital problems.

She knew Michael was dying to know the gossip, so quickly told Michael before she headed into work for a few hours.

She couldn’t completely concentrate at work, she was trying to work out how to explain it to Michael. Well he was a pretty intelligent man so he’d probably understand.

Penny soon finished work and felt completely ready to tell him.

She came in the door and Michael gave her a big hug.

“Really missed you today love, I’ve been bored stiff! Oh Terry rang earlier about a sort of stag do the guys have organised tonight at his house or something so it means I have to travel back to London. But don’t worry I’ll be back early hours of the morning. I’m a bit worried as I’ve got no idea what they’ve planned!”

“Well knowing the Pythons something very wacky indeed! Anyway Michael I need to tell you something, will you sit down?”

They both sat down on the sofa. She held his hand tightly.

“Go on love, I’m all ears!”

“Well I haven’t been entirely honest about my personal life. Yes I was treated like shit by my parents and people were horrible to me at university but well, I don’t know how to put this but I’m not from this time, I’m from the future.”

[effortlessly-bored]

The Bucket List - Chapter 3

A/N Sorry it’s been a while exams yknow

After her meeting with the Thomas, Emma had felt particularly triumphant; so, she decided to buy herself a new pair of shoes. They were black leather with a small heel and laces. The woman at the shop had promised her that they would last in Birmingham. Emma begged her neighbour to let her use the phone to call her dad, her nerves amplifying her homesickness. It was a short but sweet conversation, mostly it was just her dad telling her how proud he was. Emma worried about her father a lot, he was different since her mother passed. Emma's father sounded slightly rushed on the phone, like he had somewhere important to be; which was unusual for him.

The rest of her evening consisted of two hours at the Garrison before Harry told her to go home and have a good nights rest before her first day. Emma made herself stew for dinner. It took her thirty minutes to pick and iron her outfit for the next day. Emma made sure every thing was ready to go the next morning before she went to bed that night. She didn't actually fall asleep till the early morning, to unsure and nervous about what the next day would hold for her with both school and Michael.

Meanwhile, Michael was a frantic mess trying to get everything ready to impress Emma the next day. As soon as she left his office he ran into Tommy's, begging to let him borrow his cousin's brand new Rolls Royce. After Tommy agreed, Michael ran home to try and find the perfect outfit. He knew she didn't like his super flashy suits and he wanted to try and play it cool so he chose a more casual choice. Mickey dug through his drawers until he found his favourite tie (it was a colour that Emma had said, and he quotes, "looks super" on him). He took a quick bath and set his alarm for six the next morning, wanting to be ready for everything. Michael didn't fall asleep till the early morning; to excited to do right by Emma and anxious to see if they could back to what they once were to relax.

Michael was outside of Emma's flat fifteen minutes early. He had run to the bakery before arriving, picking up some pastries for her. Emma never ate breakfast. Mickey made sure he looked okay in the side mirror of car and checked his watch.

He only waited a few minutes before Emma came out. She had a bright smile on her face as did Michael. He recognized the dress she was wearing, it was a blue button up on top and a navy skirt. She had a beautiful pair of brand new shoes on and half her hair was pinned up.

The first thing Emma noticed was his tie, it was a dark red and brought out his eyes. His suit was more casual and relaxed, making Emma slightly less anxious.

"I like you tie, brings out your eyes." Emma spoke.

"Thanks, your shoes look nice." Michael said stuffing his hands in his pockets.

"Really? You don't think they're to manly?" They were rather masculine.

Michael scoffed,"No! They're nice, strong, and they'll last you. Perfect for you."

They're was a short pause. "Is this really your car?"

"Yeah, um, well... no." Michael finally admit. "I have a car, an Aston actually, but when you said you’d never been in one before, I asked Tommy to borrow this one. He only bought it a month ago.”

Emma walked around the vehicle in pure astonishment, Michael following close behind. Michael opened the door for Emma to get in. He quickly jogged around the front of the car, hopping into the driver’s seat. “Those are for you.” Michael said, pointing to the pastries.

“You didn’t have to do that, Michael.” Emma sighed. She had a sneaking suspicion he was trying very hard to impress her; he even wore his hair her favourite way. The pastries did smell fantastic.

“Please, I know you never eat breakfast; and, you need to keep your strength up for today.” Michael explained, starting the engine.

Emma begrudgingly took one, surprised he remembered so many little details about her. It was delicious.

“So, how much does your mother hate me?” Emma asked, after she finished chewing in an attempt to avoid silence.

“Michael let out a slight laugh. “I wouldn’t know, she left to visit my cousin, Ada, in London after she saw me yesterday.”

“Jesus, how many cousins do you have?”

“Ada’s the last one. You’d like her though, she’s a bit of a suffragette like you. She’s got a son, Carl; cute kid.” Michael took his eyes off the road for a second to look at Emma. She looked like joy; smiling wide, eyes bright and sparkly. Here cheeks were flushed and there was a small piece of pastry by the side of her mouth. Nevertheless, she was unabashed and visibly excited.

“Did you end up writing your mum… your adoptive one?”

“No, I haven’t been able to yet. But I looked at the photo, framed it even. The boys look great; tall and buff. They look so grown up.”

“Yeah, James grew a full foot one summer. He’s planning to on going to uni, you know? Wants to be an animal doctor.”

“What about Paul?”

“Last time I saw him he was alright. Got into some trouble at school after you left, but he’s alright now."

Mikey gave a short grunt before the conversation went into a slough.

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Anything, always.” Michael replied, turning a corner.

“Why do you hate George Palmroy so much? I just, I’ve been thinking about it and for the life of me I can’t remember a time when you two were civil to each other.”

“Oh, you don’t wanna know about that…”

“Yeah, I really do, Michael.”

"You sure? It was really nothing I swear.”

“Michael, if it was just nothing you wouldn't be this defensive. Just tell me for god sakes.”

Michael sighed before he said, “Ok fine, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. Do you remember we were young and your grandparents came to visit and they gave you a dreidel?”

Emma almost never talked about her mother’s heritage. It wasn’t that she was ashamed, she just knew that her mother didn’t like to talk about it. Both of Emma's grandparents on her mum’s side were Jewish, technically making Emma half. Her mother was never super devout, and when she married Emma’s father she found it was easier to just go to church instead of dealing with the judgment of people on the countryside. Emma’s Bubbe and Zayde still tried to teach her a few things before they passed away.

“Yeah, they were there for Hanukah.”

“When you brought that dreidel into class, I remember how proud and excited you were about it. And you taught me how to play during break in the courtyard.”

“Yeah, I beat you every time.” Emma teased, smiling fondly at the memory.

“I still think you were cheating.”

“I was not! But, what does this have to do with George?”

“Well, when you went to the washroom George fucking Palmroy came over and started mouthing of to me about you being Jewish.” Michael’s knuckles turned white around the steering wheel as he spoke. “God, I’m so happy you never heard any of it, some of the things he said were just so vile, Em. I kicked the shit out of him for that, wanted to do it every time I saw him since them.” Emma had heard Michael like this before, tense, violent and angry. It usually didn’t last long.

"Thank you,” she squeaked out as Michael composed himself.

Less than a minute later, the Rolls Royce was parked outside ivy covered gate. It was the first bit of greenery Emma had seen since she moved. Dozens of students were making their way in through the gates, all with a similar air of anxiousness.

It was a weird moment for Michael, because he could remember wanting nothing more than being one of those students with Emma. He had imagined them walking through those gates together a million times, and now she was going alone.

Emma was almost wishing he could come with her. The university was feeling more and more daunting by the minute.

“I brought my camera.” Michael said. “ I thought I could take a photo for you to send to your dad.”

“Really? That’s so thoughtful, thank you Michael."

“S’no problem.” He mumbled, grabbing the camera from the back seat.

Emma got out of the car, praying that her legs would stop shaking. Michael took a snapshot of her smiling in front of the main gate. He was absolutely sure it would be a beautiful photo.

“What time is your last class?”

“Um, it ends at half past two.”

“I’ll meet you here then, yeah?”

“Oh, Michael I couldn’t trouble you like that.”

“It’s really no problem, I’ll just take you to the Garrison after.”

“Ok, but, promise to figure out how to get here on my own tomorrow. I feel like such a burden.”

“Emma, you have never been and will never be a burden; trust me on that.” Michael answered. “Alright, well I better get going. You’re going to do great today.”

Emma quickly enveloped Michael in a hug, hanging on for dear life. It was the same as every hug they had before, Michael putting his arms around her and Emma resting her head on his shoulder. He rubbed her back gently, trying to calm down the nerves he knew she was having. A small tear went down her cheek.

“Just remember, if anyone tries to fuck with you just tell them you’re part of the Peaky Blinders, yeah?” He whispered in her ear.

Emma let out a small laugh, wiping her tear. “I don’t think telling people I’m part of a gang will get me a lot of friends.”

“Fuck these posh pricks, you have all the friends you need in Small Heath. You’re going to do great, Em, I’m so proud of you.”

“Thank you, Michael.” Emma said, waving goodbye as she walked into the school.

Emma was consistently shocked as to how full the Garrison got on weekdays. It was only Monday, but the pub was already bustling. Emma brought the usual order to the private room where the Shelby’s were already seated.

“So, girlie, how was your first day with the posh pricks?” Arthur asked, taking his drink.

Michael felt a little smug that he already knew everything about it. Emma hadn’t stop talking the whole way back from the school about her teacher, classes and classmates. He knew all about her Intro to Law class and the fact that she had already made a study group for her psychology class.

“It was amazing, tiring though.”

“What was the library like?” Finn asked.

“Which one? I only went into the Law Library but it was beautiful. There had to be a million books.” She said wistfully. Emma talked like it was on of the most wonders  place in the world.

“Wow.”

“Anyone give you any trouble?” John said.

“About six different guys told me I was in the wrong class and nicely pointed me towards the nursing classes; but, other than that no.” It made Michael’s blood boil how ignorant some people could be.

“Pricks.” Isaiah scoffed. “At least you have a reason to let loose and finally give me a dance tonight. All last week it was ‘I’m working, Isaiah’ or ‘I need to get ready for school, Isaiah’. No excuse now, eh? Tommy, tell dear old Emma she can take a break from work to dance with a stud like me.”

“Emma’s free to take a break anytime she’d like; but, I don’t think that’s the only reason she’s not giving you a twirl.” The room erupted with laughter at Isaiah’s expense; everyone roaring with laughter except Michael.

“No, no,” Emma said, trying to compose herself. “I’ll tell you what, if I survive the week and you don’t have three girls hanging off you on Friday, I will give you a dance then.”

“I will count the hours,” Isaiah smirked, reaching to kiss Emma’s hand.

Michael quickly cleared his throat, hoping to end the exchange. He knew that Isaiah was probably just being a flirt, but it still made him jealous how easily Em went along with the act. “Should I pick you up again tomorrow?” He asked, drawing the attention of all the men in the room. He hadn’t told his cousins about driving Emma to school, not wanting the to interfere. However, Michael now felt a small nagging voice in his head telling him to try and one up Isaiah.

“Yeah, I’m so sorry about it Michael. I feel like such a nag. I promise I’ll figure something out by the end of the week.”

“Don’t worry about it, I’m happy to drive you and at least that way I know you’re safe.” Emma’s cheeks slightly blushed at his comment, making Michael smile and Arthur want to puke at how fond the two country bumpkins were.

It wasn't long until Emma got into a routine in Small Heath. Michael would pick her up every morning, always with a fresh breakfast for her. Emma would try to pay him back for the gas and food before Michael would just put the money back in her purse. They would talk about anything and everything during their ride; both were happy to have the other back in their lives.

After Mickey dropped her off, Emma would study hard at school She had made a few friends. There was Gemma, one of the only other girls in her program; and, Eddy who was supremely sweet. Emma mostly stuck to the people in her program, to anxious to explore.

Once Michael saw Emma make it safely through the gates he would rush back to Shelby Ltd to start the work day. His cousins would tease him mercilessly about the whole situation. John just told him to "sack up" and kiss her. Tommy would usually be the one to end the ribbing by telling the boys to get back to work.

Tommy liked Emma, she reminded him of Grace; most people saw that. She was headstrong, confident and witty. This continued to worry Michael because he knew of his cousin's tendency to use the women around him to succeed professionally. Michael continued to remind Thomas about boundaries with Emma. Michael knew Emma wouldn't like home speaking for her; but, Tommy needed to know that Emma was only to be involved in business regarding the Garrison. No exceptions.

Michael was also noticeably happier since Emma had come to Small Heath. It bothered Polly a little bit, that some girl from the country could mean so much to him. But, she was relieved to see that he wasn't so being so dangerously ambitious and razor focused on his work, relaxing more in his extra time.

Later in the day, Michael would pick Emma up at the end of her classes and take her to the Garrison where she would help Harry prepare for the night. On Tuesdays and Thursdays Finn would come over after school for some extra help. Emma had only agreed to the tutoring after Finn wouldn’t stop pestering her about the University and how amazing it was. She eventually sat him down to ask why he was so interested.

“I want to go,” He confessed. “No one else in my family has even finished school let alone thought about uni. I just don’t want to disappoint them.”

“Finn.” Emma sighed. “They’re not going to be upset you want to go to uni; they’ll be proud!”

“You don’t know my family, John already thinks I should just quit school and work at the company.” It was clear to Emma that Finn felt a little trapped by his situation. He obviously loved his family and would hate to make them upset.

“Tell you what, you come in a few times a week and I’ll help you out. Then, once you’re already accepted to uni, you can talk to your family about it. How’s that sound?” She asked.

“That sounds amazing, but do you actually think I could get in?”

“Absolutely, you’re a smart guy Finn. But if I’m going to go out on a limb for you, then I need you to promise me something?.”

“Anything.”

“Just take it easy on the alcohol and drugs, yeah? While Isaiah’s a great guy, he’s not exactly the greatest influence, school wise at least.” Finn gave a short nod signalling he understood. “Maybe one day you can come visit me at school, I’ll show you what it’s like. You can drop into a few classes?”

“Really? That sounds amazing, thank you Emma.”

After that they met every week. Emma went into talk talk to Tommy after a few weeks of tutoring. The meeting wasn't actually about Finn, but Emma did make sure to talk Mr Shelby about Finn.

"Just before I go, I know that you've set up trusts for the younger people in you family, including Finn."

"He won't get his quarter of the business till he's old enough." Tommy confirmed.

"Well... It's just that I've been tutoring Finn for a while now and he's doing really well. When I asked him if he would ever consider applying to university he said that he actually really wants to go. He wants to be a scientist."

"So why doesn't he come to me about this, hm?"

"Well I think he feels as if you and your brothers want him to join the company immediately, and the last the he would ever want is to disappoint you."

"I don't where he got that idea, I'd love to see him go to uni!" Thomas scoffs.

"If you ask me-"

"Which I didn't for the record."

"Yeah but if you did I would suggest putting a contingency in Finn's trust fund saying he doesn't get a cent until he graduates university. This way he won't feel like he's disappointing you guys if he goes and he doesn't get to wrapped in the business."

The room was eerily quiet for a few minutes as Thomas thought it over. Emma wondered if she had finally crossed a line with the Shelby family; she had a tendency to get over invested. Thomas knew that everything Emma had said was a good idea but he wanted to make her sweat it out for a few minutes to make sure she was still a little scared of him.

After a few tense minutes Tommy finally spoke. "Fine, can you make a draft of the new trust, including one for Carl and Charlie and John's litter?"

"Me, sir?"

"Sure, you are a law student, are you not?"

She was a first year female law student which was the bottom of the barrel at school. Emma was shocked and and pleased by Mr Shelby's faith in her, agreeing to draw up the papers immediately. Tommy signed the requirements for the trusts within a week.

As for the dance Emma had promised Isaiah, it was exactly what she needed after her first week of uni. It was short and Isaiah was very gentlemen-ly, his hands not straying from her waist. He had been a good friend to Em, and she made it clear that she was interested to be friends and just friends with him. Isaiah just chuckled and told her that he knew Emma was never going to dumb enough to go home with him since the day they met. They did however make an agreement to be each others wing person when they went out together. He left the Garry that night with two girls after he’d made sure to say thank you and goodnight to Emma.

Emma was working hard to make Small Heath feel more like a home rather than just a temporary place to stay. And for the most part, Emma was succeeding. She stil missed her dad a lot, but he didn’t call her as often so she assumed he was keeping himself busy.

After a particularly hard day at school Emma was excited to just leave the place. She climbed into Michael’s car offering him a smile for picking her up. They talked the whole ride home, Michael trying to cheer her up. Once they turned the corner onto Emma’s road Michael got a little cautious. There was a man with grey hair sitting on her front stoop. He slowed the car down and pointed out the stranger. Emma knew who he was immediately.

“Emma!” he cried.

“Dad?"