#john shelby fluf

[brummiereader]

Arghhh! Loved it, Loved it, LOVED it ❤️!!

What an absolutely fluffy fluffed fic this was! K this was so good 😍. I was grinning from ear to ear!

I love how her speech was deeper and thought out and John just said “we’re happy to have ya!” 🤣!

Oooh yes, eek! She knew that cheeky boy was tempted to smudge some cake in her face. Her little warnings whilst he continued to grin at her had me giggling so much! I was sure he wouldn't be able to resist but no, he stayed true to his word even though I bet it was killing him to do so 😂.

“I never said I wouldn’t,” YES! Aww I love these two, they are so much fun. She's definitely a Shelby now, you give as good as you get in that family 😉❤️!

Loved this one K, nice little bedtime story for me 😅. Thank you for sharing these little blurbs everyday, we are all so grateful ❤️!

K, congrats again on your milestone! I'm here to request a 3 word prompt sentence--"Don't you dare" with John. That seems quite fitting for him, doesn't it? 😜 Looking forward to reading what you come up with!

Thanks for sending this in, Lee! Oh yes - this prompt absolutely does scream John! I hope you like what I did with it! Also I’m sorry the title’s a little lack-luster…I was bound to use the prompt I’m writing for it at least once though, right? Enjoy! :)

PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK!

Part of my 3.5k celebration — find other stories here!

Requests for this celebration are open until Sept. 4

Don’t You Dare

John Shelby x Reader

Warnings: none

Summary: It’s no surprise that things have to get a little messy on John and (Y/N)’s wedding day.

The night had gone off without a hitch. The ceremony was smooth, no interruptions happened before John and (Y/N) were named man and wife. Then the crowd rolled right into the reception, which was happening on the grounds of the garden they got married in. But of course, something was bound to go a little off-kilter. It just came with the Shelby name.

So when the band leader made the announcement that it was time to cut the cake, and (Y/N) took one look at John’s suspicious smirk, she worried that this might be the time.

Everyone had gathered around the newlywedded couple, who were standing beside the extravagant wedding cake that (Y/N) meticulously picked out. (Y/N) looked around at the smiling faces, glancing over to John before adressing them.

“I wanted to thank everyone for coming to celebrate with us tonight. John and I are lucky to have so many amazing people in our lives…you’ve helped make this the most special day,” she started off, smiling widely before she looked to John, hoping that he’d continue.

“Right,” he nodded, catching his wife’s drift, “we’re happy to have ya!” he added on, holding his glass up to initiate a toast. The crowd followed suit as (Y/N) shook her head, her lips pursed to hide the smile.

She waited for the noise to dull down before she spoke again: “it’s now time to cut the cake,” she announced, earning more cheers from the on-lookers.

She was given a cake cutter, John two plates, and she sent him one last smile before she went about cutting two small pieces; one to put on each plate. She set the cutter down and accepted the plate from John, feeling eager to try the cake that she’d truly been dreaming about.

“Oi! You’ve gotta feed it to each other!” Arthur’s booming voice came from the crowd before the couple was able to get any further. His exclaimation was, of course, met with many shouts of agreement.

That was when (Y/N) looked to John. She could immediately tell by the cheshire cat-like grin on his face that he was plotting something. This was not the time that she wanted things to go off-script. But with each second they looked each other, his grin grew.

“John Shelby…” she started, a warning tone laced into her voice as she raised her eyebrows at him. “Don’t you dare.”

John heard what she had to say, looked down at the cake on his plate and then rolled his eyes, his smirk still ever present as he located his older brother in the crowd. After sharing a brief glance with Arthur, he found (Y/N)’s eyes again, seeing that they were still wide and serious. “I’d never,” he told her, although his grin made her think otherwise.

“Get on with it!” Arthur yelled, obviously becoming impatient with the time they were taking. His statement made (Y/N) zero her intense gaze in on him, silently telling him to knock it off.

“Come on, baby,” John’s voice made her finally break and look back at him, and when she did, she noticed that he had already taken a small piece of the cake into his fingers.

She sent him one last ‘don’t try it’ look before mimicking him and taking a piece into her fingers as well. She held her breath and hoped for the best as they got closer to each other, close enough so that they were able to cleanly place the piece of cake into each other’s mouths. Cheers sounded off around them as they stepped back, smiling at each other.

“See? I wouldn’t try anything,” John said to her as he leaned in to press a sweet kiss to her lips.

“Yeah,” (Y/N) answered, a relieved smile now on her face. She glanced down at the remaining bit of cake that she had on her plate then, not wasting much time to grab it and smear it across John’s face. More excited cheers coursed through the crowd of onlookers as John’s jaw dropped at her actions. “I never said I wouldn’t,” she told him with a grin before leaning in to kiss the icing off of his lips.

John couldn’t do anything other than smile as (Y/N) looked back at him with a smug grin. Hey…she was a Shelby now, this should’ve been expected.

Tagged: @the-anxious-youth @mystcldydrms @look-at-the-soul @mrsalwayswrite @julkaamazing @evita-shelby @lilyrachelcassidy @shelbydelrey @onlydeadcells @peakyswritings @watercolorskyy @strayrockette @peakyduchesss @alexxavicry @stevie75 @dark-academia-slut @zablife @cillmequick @letal-y-poetica @depxiety @shelundeadxxxx @areyenotfondofmelobster @padfootdaredmetoo @crabat-the-queen @sebastianstangirl01 @everythingelseisextra @kmc1989 @papichulo120627 @brummiereader @adaydreamaway08 @kissforvoid @raincoffeeandfandoms @wildheartsalwaysburn @dragons-are-my-favorite @jessimay89 @slaymybreathaway

MASTERLIST

[justmymindandstuff]

unexpected luck?

Summary: Your parents kick you out after they find out you are pregnant. Pregnant by a Shelby. But even John does not react to the news as you would have liked.

John Shelby x reader.

Words: 2784

Warnings: None, correct me if I´m wrong

English is not my mother tongue, so forgive me for mistakes.

**********

Your whole body is shaking, the strict glance of your mother burn under your skin. 

,,Who is it?” she asks with an angry voice, but you only shake your head. You couldn't answer. It only would make them angrier.

Your fathers fist hits the table. ,,Tell me! What's his name? Who got you pregnant? Or do you not even know? "

,,Shelby.” you whisper, tears running out of your eyes. 

,,You get yourself knock up by one of this fucking gypsies! I never trought that you are that dump.” your mother cursed. 

,,Get out. Ge out of my house! You brought shame on this family. I never want to see you again. After today, I no longer have a daughter.” your father say with a calm voice, and you know, when his voice has this tone you doesn´t argue. You just did what he said. So you grap your coat and run out of your house. The cold air hits you wet cheecks, tears still running out of your eyes. You run trought the dark streets, your lungs burn but you don´t stop until you stand vor Pollys door. It´s the only place you could go. You knock a few times at the door and it tooks a moment for Polly to open her door. She only wears her nightgrown, worry all written over her face. As she sees you she realxes for a second, than she saw your terars. ,,Y/N, what happend?” she asks and drag you inside in the warm house. You sad yourself in the kitchentabel still crying, Polly sits beside you strokes your back and remains silent. She waits for you to start speaking. . ,,My parents throw me out.” you said after a moment. 

,,Why?” 

You know she already knows, you saw it in her face yesterday, after John makes fun of you for sleeping the whole day and still being tried. Last week you ask her if she ha cherries in the house. Polly knows normally you hate cherries. You knows it since a few weeks, but hasn´t told John. Because you are arfraid of his reaction. He was only 17 Years old, you even a year younger. No one of you was able to look after a child. 

,,I told them that I am pregnant.” you whisper. Polly takes a deep breath and than she smiled warmly. 

,,What wonderfull news.” she said, you know she lied, its not. Times were hard and it doesn´t get better when you bring another mouth to feed at her table. But Polly knows that you need someone to reacts with joy. 

,,Have you told John?” she asks, don´t doubt for a second that he is the father. You two were dating for almost 1 Year now and both of you are head over heels in love. John doesn´t even mind that you can´t bee seen in public together, he understands that your parents would send you to your aunt in London in the second they will find out that you are dating a Shelby. Your parents hate the Shelbys, because of their not so legal business and because their are Gypsies. For your parents their were a plague, but you doesn´t mind. You fell in love with John in the second you meet him. You has a project at school with Ada, so she took you to her place and after a few minutes her brothers came through the door. Laughing and chase eachother through the small kitchen, of course the tea Ada hat place at the tabel spills all over you. John laughts at you and his blue eyeas sparkled in the light. In that moment you lost your heart to him. 

,,No.” you answerd. ,,I am to afraid. What if he insists that I get it taken away? I don't know if I can do that.” 

,,Should he do that, I'll take my kitchen knife and cut off his fucking cock” 

You can't help but laugh softly. Polly wipes the tears from your face. “Go to sleep now, it's late. And if you want we can tell him together tomorrow. Okay?"

,,Okay. Thank you Polly. " She gives you a warm smile and then sends you upstairs. You quietly open John's room door, his loud snoring sounds in your ears. You drop your coat on the floor and slip off your dress. Only in underwear you climb into the warm bed. When you snuggle up to his side he wakes up, immediately his arms close around you and he presses a kiss on your forehead. ,, Y / N. What are you doing here? ”He asks in a sleepy voice.

“I'll explain it to you tomorrow. I'm too tired to talk right now. "

John gently strokes your arms and pulls you closer to his warm chest. ,,Okay.“ He's too tired to worry about why you sneak into his bed in the middle of the night and it's too dark for him to see the tears on your face. He kisses you and crosses his legs with yours, he wants you to be as close as possible to him. You listen to his calm breath and his heart. The rhythmic beating of his heart and the familiar smell quickly lull you into a dreamless sleep.

 You wake up before the sun really comes up. John is peacefully sleeping next to you. And even if you are emotionally and physically exhausted, you cannot lie down. Carefully you free yourself from Johns embrace and climb out of bed. You put your dress back on and sneak down the stairs. Tommy is sitting in the kitchen with a cup of tea and the newspaper. A cigarette hangs in the corner of his mouth, the smell of the smoke makes you sick for a moment.

"Good morning Tommy."

,,Good morning Y / N. What are you doing here? Didn't even know you slept here. It was suspiciously quiet for you to be there. "

"Shut up, Shelby." Those nights got you into this shitty situation in the first place, or the afternoons by the river, or the evenings in the back alley next to the Garrison. You don't even know how long you've been pregnant. 5 weeks? Maybe 6? Or longer? You take a cup of tea and fill Tommy's cup again. Then you let yourself fall on the kitchen table. Tommy's gaze attentive is to you. You haven't looked in the mirror, but you're sure that you look like a mess.

"Are you okay?"

"No." You shake your head and take a sip of tea. Before Tommy can ask any further questions, John comes down the stairs into the kitchen.

"I thought I had dreamed that you were here when you weren't lying next to me this morning." He says, he sounds happy and you'd like to start crying right away. He puts a kiss on your lips and lights up on one of Tommy's cigarettes. Polly walks into the room and gives you an encouraging smile. "Slept well?" She asks the group. Tommy and John nod but you just stare into your tea. Polly pats you on the shoulder as she walks past you. "Tommy. Please leave us alone for a moment." Tommy looks confused at his aunt, but then gets up and disappears from the kitchen with his newspaper. John looks back and forth between you and his aunt in confusion, his happy smile has disappeared from his lips.

"Can't we wait a little longer?" You ask quietly, but Polly shakes her head.

"Wait with what?" Asks John skeptically, he grabs your hand but you pull it away and clasp your cup. He looks at Polly. "Wait with what?" he repeats his question. Polly takes a deep breath, lights a cigarette, and joins you at the table. You wish to be very far away, your whole body is shaking and you feel sick. He will leave you, you and the child. His child. ,,What the fuck is going on here? Would someone please talk to me? Y / N? What's happening? Please talk to me. "He sounds a little desperate, fear is reflected in his blue eyes.

“I have decided that Y / N will be living here from now on. This decision stands and will not be discussed. "Says Polly determined and looks at you encouragingly. You knew that Polly would never put you on the street, not like your parents. But to hear that you have a home here, no matter what, it lowers your nervousness a little.

"John." You start and stare further into your tea, but John carefully grabs your chin and forces you to look at him. "I'm pregnant with your child. Our child." Shock and disbelife are reflected in his face, he lets his hand drop. He doesn't say a word, then he gets up and storms out of the kitchen.

"JOHN!" Polly yells after him, but you collapse and start crying again. He didn't say anything and just ran away. He left you, just as you feared. Although you didn't actually think he would ever leave you. Maybe force you to have an abortion. But in none of your horror scenarios that have been going through your head for the past few days he has left you. Even in your worst nightmares, you can't imagine him leaving you. Still, he just did it.

Tommy comes back into the kitchen.

"What's going on?" He asks, then his gaze falls on you. You are still crying at the kitchen table, subconsciously you have placed a protective hand over your stomach. Tommy notices this and understands immediately. "Where is John?"

"Run away. Like a bloody coward. "Polly sounds angry. She hadn't expected such behavior from John. Polly sits down next to you and rubs your back soothingly.

"I'm tired," you utter between sobs.

"Of course." Polly says gently. "Get some sleep and I'll bring you some food later." You nod and drag yourself up the stairs, Finn is sitting on the top step.

"I was listening," he says quietly, sounding incredibly guilty.

"It's okay."

"What does it mean to be pregnant?" Asks the little boy.

“It means that I'm going to have a baby. And you have a nephew or a niece. " Finn nods even if you're sure he doesn't really understand. After all, he's only four years old.

"Then why are you sad?" He asks.

"Because your brother is a fucking ass."

"No cursing around Finn." Tommy calls up the stairs, which puts the slightest smile on your face.

You bend down and kiss Finn's hair. "Polly is waiting with breakfast." The little boy jumps up and runs down the stairs. ,,Are you not coming?"

"Leave Y / N alone today, she is very tired and needs to rest." Finn still looks confused but doesn't question his aunt's words. You open John's room door, the bed is unmade and his things are scattered all over the place. You sigh, push a pair of dirty pants aside with your foot and lie down in his bed. The sheets smell way too much of John and tears are streaming down your cheeks again. You curl up and cry yourself into a restless sleep.

 You are woken up by loud screams from below. You can't understand exactly what is being said, but you can hear Polly's angry voice. You carefully wrap yourself out of the sheets and creep into the hallway. Finn is already back at the top of the stairs and you let yourself sink down next to him.

"Are you listening again?"

"Yes." You concentrate on the voices, although the door has been closed you can now hear them clearly.

"... like a goddamn idiot, how could you do that? You impregnate her and then run away! What kind of man are you? "

"Shut up your fucking mouth Polly. I didn't run away. I'm here now, just had something to do first."

"Buy a train ticket?" You hear Ada's angry voice, of course the whole family has already been informed about the situation. "Or borrow money for the doctor? What are you going to do John? Do you want to force her to have the baby removed? Y/N is the best that ever happend to you and she brings you wonderful news! And what are you doing? You run away even though she needed you. "

You hear glass breaking. Probably John's patience has come to an end, and then he reacts like a wild animal in a cage, he attacks.

"Stay here." You say to Finn and run down the stairs. You have to prevent bloodshed between the siblings.

You open the door and enter the room, immediately everyone is quiet and looking at you.

A relieved smile appears on John's lips and he comes up to you to pull you into a hug.

"They didn't want to tell me where you are." He whispers, his voice sounds relieved, but you tense up and push him away from you. Tears gather in your eyes.

“I don't want an abortion. I know we're too young but I can't. I could never come to terms with the idea of ​​killing my baby. "Your hand wanders back to your stomach to place it protectively on your unborn child." I know it's unfair, but I made my decision and if you did then want an abortion, then.. then… I don't know either. " you take a deep breath. "Don't worry, you don't have to take care of us, I can do it myself."

,,What? No! Why is everyone here always talking about a fucking abortion? That child will stay right where it is  for the next nine months. And you don't have to do anything on your own. "

You look at him confused. "Then why did you run away? If you're not angry, why did you leave me? "

,,I did not leave you. Sure, I was shocked and yes we are young but a child! You have our child, why should I leave you? I love you Y / N and I will love our child. I just had to do something. "

“What was so important? What's so important that you leave me alone in the worst moment of my life. "Tears are running down your cheeks again, you can't understand why he ran away the moment you needed him. John takes a deep breath and takes yours hand.

“I'm sorry I ran away, I know it wasn't the right reaction. But I need a ring for a proposal. "He smiles at you and then goes down on one knee. With his free hand he pulls a silver ring out of his vest pocket. Polly and Ada utter a surprised cry while you just put your hand over your mouth and look down at John in shock.

"Y / N, would you do me the honor of making me the happiest man in the world and marrying me?"

You can only nod. John smiles in relief, gets up and kisses you full of passion and love. "Yes?" He whispers against your lips.

"Yes of course you fucking idiot." When he puts the ring on your finger, his hands are trembling slightly.

Arthur and Tommy start clapping and cheering. Ada pulls you into a tight hug, you smile at Polly over her shoulder and she smiles back, all the anger is gone and suddenly there is a happy mood in the air.

 A week later you and John step in front of the altar. You sent an invitation to your parents, but they didn't show up. Of course it hit you, but you don't need them. The moment you walk out of the church with John by your side, you know everything will be fine. After all, you're a Shelby now.

There's a little party at the Garrison, of course John's whole family is there, and a couple of friends, Freddie Throne flirts with Ada all the time, but her brothers are too drunk to really notice. You smile at Ada across the table and raise your glass. She rolls her eyes and turns back to Freddie.

"At least the kid isn't going to be a bastard," laughs Arthur.

"Shut up you fucking asshole." You and John shouts at the same time.

Arthur starts laughing and Tommy gives him a brotherly slap on the shoulder. "Y / N already sounds like a Shelby."

“Yes, because she is  a fucking Shelby. Isn't it Mrs. Shelby? "

Hearing your new last name for the first time makes you feel warm and you can't help but smile at your husband. "Of course, finally I'm your wife, Mr. Shelby."

[ithebookhoarder]

Hey! I love your story the gangsters daughter SO much and I was wondering if I could request something based on it?

Where it’s the night before Evie’s wedding and she goes to Tommy’s office to talk as she’s nervous and they have a fluffy moment where he doesn’t think he’s ready for her to get married! ☺️

Cold Feet (Parent!Tommy Shelby x Evie)

A/N: Ok ok ok. First of all anon, how dare you be so fluffing cute?! And second, OF COURSE YOU CAN! I love Evie and I’m always looking for excuses to write for my baby. Also, I’m totally not crying at the thought of Tommy having to let his little girl go and get married and just wanting her to be happy... I just have something in my eye. 

Warnings: Swearing, mentions of alcohol, mentions of smoking. Let me know if I missed anything. 

Masterlist:

Tommy had always known this day would come. 

It was as inevitable as death was for every single living thing on this planet. 

No matter how hard he’d prayed that he’d have just a little more time left, his luck had finally run out. There was no delaying it any longer now that the day was almost upon him when his life would change in a way that would alter his world forever. 

It was tomorrow, in fact, that Tommy would see Evie shed the Shelby name for another. 

True, he could not have chosen a more worthy candidate, and knew Toby would love Evie as she deserved to be loved. That didn't lessen the sting it caused though, to know his days as the only male in her life were now over. Soon, she would no longer be his, no longer living in the same house as him. She would be a married woman, and that filled Tommy with incredible joy, and incredible sorrow at the same time.

This was the curse of fathers. 

It seemed only yesterday that she was small enough to not even care about boys, let alone marriage. He remembered a particular conversation with fondness, when Evie had only been with them a few months or so. 

It had been in the wake of a row over Ada’s most recent conquest at the time. An annoying boy, Liam had only lasted three dates before being scared off by Arthur, John, and Tommy.  Despite being nothing particularly special, Ada had been incredibly enraged, yelling about how she wanted to marry him and that she’d never find love again. 

Of course, Evie had found the whole thing hilarious, if not a little confusing. Hence, when she’d sat up in bed that night, as Tommy passed by her room one final time, he couldn’t help but smile at her quizzical expression. 

“But, Dad. If she loves him what’s wrong with that? Besides, Mum had a baby on her own… if Ada did end up pregnant would it really be so horrible? She’d have a child, like me, and you all warmed up to me pretty quickly.”

“Well,” Tommy had begun, trying not to laugh at the absurdity of this discussion with his only recently recovered twelve-year old daughter. Polly was always far better at talking about this kind of stuff. “It’s… you see… people tend to only have children when they’re married.”

“Why?”

“It’s just how things are done.”

“Well, that’s stupid.”

Tommy smirked. “Most people would agree with you, but a lot don’t. They can be horrible and cruel, even to women who were in love but weren’t married when they had a kid. So, we’re trying to spare Ada from that. It’s fucking complicated, but at the end of the day, she deserves to be happy, doesn’t she?” 

“Yes,” Evie sighed, suddenly staring down at her bedsheets nervously. “But… does that mean Auntie Martha was right? That I have to get married when I grow up? But Dad, the only boys I like are you… and my uncles… I don’t suppose I could marry one of them?”

Tommy immediately bit back his laughter as he shook his head and held her close. “I’m afraid Martha would object to you marrying our John. Besides, you don’t want one of us old men when you can find someone young and handsome who you love very much.”

“But how will I know who that is? Or if they’re good or not?” she asked innocently. 

“I’ll help you,” Tommy offered, not without a little hesitation. To even think such a time would exist, when he would have to part with his daughter, when he’d only just found her again… “You can depend on it. Any unworthy bastards will be driven away by me, and the hounds.”

At that Evie spluttered into laughter, before pressing a kiss to her father’s cheek. “Now that, I would pay to see.”

Well, that day had come and gone and Tommy hadn’t released any hounds. No. The only hound in sight was Cyril, and he’d warmed incredibly quickly to the new member of the family. 

He hadn’t been the only one either. In fact, Tommy had rolled out the red fucking carpet, welcoming the man into the family. Sure, it hadn’t been without its challenges along the way, but as much as Tommy hated to admit it, Toby was a good man. More than that, he’d proved his loyalty to the family, and to Evie, over and over again. 

If he had to part with Evie to anyone, then at least it was to someone as decent as Toby. It made the whole ordeal hurt just a little less as he sipped his whiskey and stared out of the study window. 

Despite the late hour, there were still faint laughs and shrieks of delight echoing from upstairs. Ada, Lara, Polly and Lizzie were most likely to blame, having taken charge of Evie’s so called ‘last night of freedom’. Tommy didn’t know what that entailed exactly and he didn’t even want to try and guess. Not given how much champagne they’d lugged upstairs with them earlier, having returned from a busy evening dancing at a local club. 

If they weren’t all hungover as hell in the morning it would be a minor miracle. 

Still, as long as they got their asses to church on time and didn’t throw up on the minister, then everything would be fine. No. It would be perfect. Tommy had promised Evie that much and he’d be damned before he failed to deliver a promise as solemn as this one. 

She’d done the same for him, twice in fact, even if his union to Lizzie had been a far simpler affair than his first marriage to Grace. 

At least Evie hadn’t insisted on there being a ‘father of the bride’ toast - even if Ada had… Somehow, Tommy knew his would never be anywhere as good as the ones his daughter had given. 

She always had had a way with words.  

“Dad?”

Tommy froze. 

Speak of the devil and she shall appear. 

He was startled by the sound of her voice, echoing from the open doorway, as if summoned by his worry. He’d almost thought he’d imagined it until he turned and saw her standing there, looking a little worse for wear in her finery. 

Apparently he’d been right; she’d had a very fun evening.  

“Evie?” he blinked, clearing his throat as he tried to compose himself. “What are you doing down here? It’s late and I thought you’d be upstairs celebrating a bit longer. Big day tomorrow.”

Evie smiled, shrugging as she stepped into the office and closed the door behind her. She knew she never needed an invitation, having given up knocking long ago. 

“I was but… I don’t know. I just wanted to come and see you, if that’s alright?”

It would always be alright. Tommy hoped she knew that, even if the anxiety in her eyes said otherwise. Then again, he suspected the nervous energy wasn’t directly aimed at him.  

Over a decade later, he knew his daughter better than he knew himself. It was why he nodded, gesturing to the seat next to him in a clear invitation. “Of course it is, but won’t the others miss you?” 

“Oh, they’re all too busy finishing the last of the wine to miss me right away and… I don’t know why but I needed a minute away from everything. It was all a bit… much.”

“Yeah, well, welcome to my world. This family has always been a bit much,” Tommy teased. That was why they both loved them though. The Shelby spirit was strong and made them who they were. They wouldn’t change it for the world, even if it did drive them nuts on occasion. 

And Toby was willingly entering this family, why? 

“I’m almost scared to ask what’s being going on up there.”

“Probably wise, Dad. No one should see thing things I have tonight.” 

“I thought so.”

A laugh escaped Evie’s lips as she sat beside him, accepting the glass of whiskey he handed her without a second thought. It was simply routine by this point, the two of them caught in a silent routine on nights like this when they needed to simply clear their heads and think. 

It was an unwritten agreement between the pair of them. As was the somewhat confessional nature this room had taken on in its time under the Shelby household. So much had happened since they’d first moved in to Arrow House, from Charles and Ruby being born, to losing Grace, to Evie falling in love, Tommy’s ascension to Parliament, losing John and Esme, Lizzie and Tommy’s wedding… 

Only a decade or so, and yet Evie felt like a whole novel would never be enough to capture her family’s history or the almost surreal events that had taken place.

“Besides, it’s been a while since we had a talk like this, Dad,” Evie continued, shrugging as she sipped her drink and stared at the room. “Everything’s been happening so fast since Toby proposed. It feels like we haven’t had a moment to breathe, really. You’ve been so helpful, agreeing to everything and allowing us to turn this place upside down. I can’t thank you enough for that, by the way. I half expected you to be like Arthur yelling at the florist earlier.”

“It’s the least I can do, Evie. It’s not every day my daughter gets married - and he yelled so I didn’t have to. Fucking trying to sneak carnations in when the order clearly said Clematis with the centrepieces.”

Evie snorted, failing to hide the fact hearing Tommy Shelby raging about flowers was possibly the funniest thing to have ever happened. Ever. Good thing he hadn’t been there when someone had accidentally delivered the wrong amount of chairs for the tent erected out on the lawn. She could only imagine the carnage that would have occurred.  

“My knight in shining armour.” 

“Always. No ring changes that, Evie. I’ll always be there for you, whether it be to fend off blind florists or worse.” 

Despite the fact he acted as if he was merely joking, Evie knew her father meant each and every word. He always had. Even with their ups and downs, he had never abandoned her, always trying to do what was best for her, even if he went about it the wrong way from time to time. 

When she thought back now, to the day she’d first met him in that graveyard, on what had been one of the darkest days of her life, she wished she could tell her younger self not to be afraid. To not be angry or scared of the future before her and the wondrous people that would be in it, thanks to the wonderful man she got to call her father. 

“Dad, can… can I ask you a question? About tomorrow?” 

Tommy hummed softly. “I don’t know what I can tell you about weddings, but fine. Of course.”

“It’s not about the wedding per say, more the bit after. I just… I’m scared, Dad. I don’t know why but I am.”

The words made Tommy’s heart plummet before he’d even realised what she’d said. It took everything in him not to panic or try and express the pain he felt at the idea his daughter was scared about what was supposed to be a happy day - a happy and expensive one, even if Tobias had money enough to cover a lot of the costs. 

“Of what?” 

“I don’t know,” Evie whispered, almost as if ashamed to confess it. “I’m so happy and excited to start the life together Toby and I have talked about for years but, now that it’s here? I don’t know. I just … I feel like I’m going to throw up or pass out and I don’t know why. Is something wrong with me? Who gets terrified of their own wedding?”

“Every fucking sane person on the planet,” Tommy countered swiftly, a hand reaching out to take hers. “As someone with experience here, you can trust me when I say everyone gets scared, Evie. Everyone. No matter how certain you are that you love the person or that this is the right next step.”  

“But why?” 

“Because it’s a big commitment,” Tommy continued, “and it’s a new chapter in your life. That’s exciting but also terrifying. To know you have a chance to start a family of your own? To choose your own path? That’s nothing to take lightly, and if I didn’t think you wanted this, or that you weren’t ready, I would have said something before now. You can count on that.” 

He had a point.  

“And I know you, Evelyn Shelby. You have never let anything or anyone stop you from going after what you want, even if it’s scary or someone says no. If being with Tobias is what you want, then so be it. You’re a grown woman, as much as I fucking hate to admit it. I think you’ve proven over and over again that you’re the bravest one out of the lot of us, and I’m so proud of you. Your Mother would be too. She’d want you to be happy and to enjoy tomorrow for what it is: the start of another chapter in your incredible life.” 

The thought of her absence was enough to make Evie’s eyes sting with tears, as was the conviction with which her father spoke about her. The pride was clear, even if he looked a little scared himself at what tomorrow would bring for them all. 

“Thank you.”

Tommy nodded, knowing better than to argue as she threw herself at him, coiling herself around him as she often did. Ever since the first time she’d done it, he’d been unable to resist it. So what? His daughter’s embrace was one of the few in the world that made him feel loved. It was as if her presence alone was enough to restore him, to banish whatever was troubling him. 

The thought he wouldn’t just be able to have such hugs so frequently made his heart ache even more. 

He didn’t want her to go. 

In his eyes, she was still the twelve-year-old girl he’d first met. She always would be, no matter how much she insisted on growing up and being a so called ‘adult’. It was why he planned on keeping her room upstairs exactly as it was now, just in the case she ever needed or even wanted it. 

That, and because he physically couldn’t bear to erase any remaining traces of her from his home. Of course, Lizzie had teased him rotten about it, even if she understood. Still young, Lizzie hated the thought of Ruby ever growing up and leaving her for anyone - let alone a husband. 

At least they had some time left before that would be happening. Tommy didn’t know if he could survive anymore heartache so soon.

“I love you, so much, Evie,” Tommy whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of her head and holding her close. “You’ll always be my little girl, and you’ll always be welcome here. Anytime, day or night. This will still be your home, and we’ll still be your family. If anything, we’re simply gaining more members, not losing any. Understand?”

“Yes,” Evie nodded, wiping her eyes as she shot him a watery smile. “I love you too, Dad, even if I swear I’m supposed to be the one telling you all this. Isn’t it normally the father of the bride who’s supposed to get all teary eyed and jittery the night before?”

“We’ve never been conventional, Evie. In case you forgot, we have politicians, the Lee branch of the family, and Alfie fucking Solomons all coming tomorrow, for fucks sake. Why should we start worrying about tradition now?” 

Evie’s laughter was infectious at the picture of the eclectic scene awaiting them, especially considering how excited Alfie had been at the prospect of attending a Shelby wedding. Oh, Arthur was going to explode at the sight of the Jewish gangster sat in all his finery. That, and when he saw the huge gift he had been promising her for weeks now.  

She couldn’t wait.  

“True. Well, traditional or not, I’m so grateful for the life we have, Dad. I’ll never be able to tell you how grateful I am that you were the person who showed up at that graveyard,” she confessed. “There’s no one else in the whole world I want to be my side tomorrow. You’ll still walk me down the aisle, right?”

Tommy beamed. “How can you ask that, Evelyn Shelby? I’ve always been right beside you and tomorrow is no different. Wild horses couldn’t stop me.” 

“Thank you.”

“Don’t thank me,” Tommy whispered, “simply enjoy yourself and let me and the others take care of the rest. That’s all the thanks we need… and maybe call once in a while, just so I know you’re alright.”

Evie laughed, knowing she would probably still end up here most of the time anyway after she was married. But she agreed, pleased to put his mind at rest as well as he’d put her own. “I really do love you, Dad.” 

“And I love you too, Evie. Always.” 

[afeb]

John Shelby - Please

I left the small office building, chatting with a colleague about the day we’d had.

“Any plans for tonight?” Susan asked me.

I shook my head. “Nothing much, I need an early night.” I chuckled.

I stopped in my tracks. There, leaning against the wall of the opposite building, was John Shelby. His cap was pulled over one eye, tooth pick between his plump lips and hands shoved deep in his pockets.

“Everything okay Y/N?” Susan asked, following my gaze. “Oh...I should really go.”

“Me too.” I shortly said before turning the opposite way to John and hurried away. I turned the corner, checking behind me. John wasn’t there, he must have missed me.

Suddenly, I walked into something tall and solid, making me stumble back and fall onto my backside. “Should look where you’re going, love.” A deep Birmingham accent rumbled out.

I peered up at John and scrambled to my feet, ignoring the hand he’d stuck out for me to grab. “Sorry Mr. Shelby.”

He cornered me against the wall, his arms boxing me in. “How many times do I have to tell you to call me John.”

I gently pushed against his chest and began to walk away. “John,” I said coldly. “I’m busy right now so I can’t hang around.”

He jogged to catch up with me. “Really? Cos rumour has it you’ve got nothing to do tonight.” He smirked.

I pursed my lips. “I’d like to keep it that way.” I sternly said, turning the corner onto my street.

“So I’ll meet you at the Garrison at eight then?” John said as I unlocked my door.

“Unlikely.” I groaned as I slammed the door in his face. I rolled my eyes as I heard his deep laugh through the door.

John and I had known each other since we were kids, and before puberty we’d hated each other passionately. He was cocky, arrogant and selfish. Something about him made my blood boil, not to mention his violent streak.

However, ever since we were seventeen John made it his mission to get me on a date with him. He’d follow me to work, wait for me to finish, walk me home everyday he could. He made jokes, bought me gifts and constantly asked me out. He even showed up at my door drunk a few times spouting about what a wonderful mother I’d make to our children.

He was handsome, yes, and sometimes thoughtful. But he was a gangster. He did illegal, horrible things. It seemed there was always a speck of blood on him, and there was always something terrible around the corner. To be with him was to be doomed, I wouldn’t doom myself. Besides, once he had me he would inevitably get bored and leave. That’s how men work.

I put on some slow music and went about my evening, washing and changing into something more comfortable before making dinner. It was nearing eleven at night, the sun long gone. The fire in front of me crackled as I immersed myself in my book.

Suddenly, the door banged and a groan came from the other side. I jumped up, peeping out my front window. John lay on the floor, rubbing his head. I rolled my eyes and went to the door, opening it warily.

“John.” I sighed, bending down to help him up. He stumbled some more, leaning practically his whole weight on me.

“Y/N.” He hiccuped out, resting his head on top of mine. “I think I’ve had too much to drink.” He slurred out.

I rolled my eyes and helped him inside. “For gods sake John.” I groaned, lumping him into the living and setting him in front of the fire. “Why did you do this?”

He lulled his head to look at me. “You stood me up.” He smiled lazily. “We were meant to have a drink.”

I rolled my eyes again. “Are you going to be sick?” I changed the topic.

He shook his head. “Something to eat wouldn’t go a miss though, love.” He giggled out.

I went into the kitchen and got a glass of water and some biscuits for him, hoping this would sober him up. I walked back into living room where John had picked up the book I was reading.

“Little Women?” He quizzed. I took the book from him, placing it on the floor where I knelt in front of him.

“Drink this.” I cooed, handing him the glass.

He gulped it down, water pooling out the corners of his mouth. I rolled my eyes again and took the glass from him, coaxing a biscuit into his mouth. Once he’d finished his small meal, I simply sat and looked at him.

“See,” he hummed. “New you cared about me.”

I snorted. “I’m just being nice.” I told him.

He picked up his head and peered down at me. “Nah, you care about me.” He concluded. “Can see it in your eyes ‘n’ all.”

I smiled warmly at him. There was a long pause, simply looking at each other. “Why me, John? There are girls lining up around the block for you. Why me?”

He leant forward, his face close to mine. “Those eyes...those fucking eyes.” He murmured. “They’re so deep, they’ve seen so much and I want to know it all.”

I rolled my eyes. “Come on.”

I went to move away but John quickly cupped my face. “Why do you never believe me? You’re not a chase, love. You’re it for me, I want to marry you and have children. I want to have a house with you, sleep beside you every night...you never believe me, why?”

“Because...well...I’ve seen what you do with women. You court them, flatter them...and once they give you what you want, you leave.” I whispered.

“Is that what you think of me?” He sadly said.

“It’s what everyone thinks of you.” I told.

He leant back in his chair and puffed out air from his cheek, suddenly stumbling to his feet then.

“I’ll leave you then.” He sadly mumbled, stumbling towards the door.

I quickly moved to stand in front of him. “John, maybe you should stay the night, it’s late and you’re so drunk.” I explained.

He smirked down at me. “If you want me to stay, you just have to ask.”

I blushed and nodded. “Stay, John.”

He grasped my hand and tugged me close to him. “So what does this mean?”

I pushed him away. “It means I don’t want you getting in trouble on your way home.” I said.

I took his hand and slowly helped him up the stairs, John nearly falling every minute. After much difficulty he fell onto my bed, nuzzling into the covers.

“Thanks, baby.” John sighed. I chuckled and took off his thick boots, willing him to sit up so I could take off his coat and hat.

His hands landed on my hips, attempting to pull me into his lap. “John, no.” I said, unbuttoning his shirt and removing off his body. “You can sleep in your trousers.”

He pouted up at me. “No I can’t, they’re scratchy.” He whined. He stood, looming over me. There was a glint of mischief in his eyes and he slowly popped the button and dragged the zip down. “Hm, I’m too drunk to take them off, can you?”

I rolled my eyes and shoved them down his hips, being careful not to remove his boxers. He sat on the bed as I looped his feet through the legs and threw them next to the rest of his clothes.

“Come on, under the covers.” I helped him into bed.

“Tuck me in?” He winked. I giggled and pulled the covers over his chest, tucking them under his arms and fluffing the pillows under his head. “Kiss goodnight?”

“John.” I giggled again. I leant down and placed a small kiss on his forehead, taking my opportunity to grab the spare pillow next to him. “Call me if you need anything.”

I went to walk away but John grabbed my hand. “Where are you going?” He asked.

“The sofa.” I shortly said, trying to tug my hand from his grip.

His hand tightened around mine. “Y/N,” he whispered. “Please stay.”

“I don’t know-“

“I promise, no funny business.” He said. “I won’t touch you at all, I just-please.”

I bit my lip and looked down at him, slowly nodding. “Look away while I change.” I quickly changed into a nightgown, laughing as John covered his eyes with his arm.

I got into bed, turning to look at John. “What you lookin at?” He asked.

“You seem different with your guard down.” I said. “You seem...kinder, softer.”

His eyes sparkled in the dim light. “I can be this, for you, all the time if you asked.” He told me, gingerly taking my hand. “Will you go on a date with me? Please?”

I paused for a moment before smiling. “Yes.”

He sat up. “Fuck, really?”

I laughed out loud. “Yes! Fine, I will.” His hand squeezed mine. “But still no funny business tonight.” I warned.

He smiled again. “Yes ma’am.”

We both settled down, my body facing away from him. We sweetly said goodnight, and right before I drifted off to sleep I felt Johns arm loop around me and his body press against mine.

[rubysunnday]

Shelby sister going to tommy and graces wedding and surprising her family after not seeing them bc she went to war with them (unknowingly to them) and never came back until now

A/N: I changed it so that she’d been at boarding school because it just made more sense to me

Attending boarding school was one of the biggest regrets of your life. You hadn’t any of your family since the previous summer and you felt so alone. The subjects you were learning weren’t boring, it just wasn’t what you wanted to do with your life.

You’d been thinking about dropping out for a while. You’d missed out on a lot whilst you’d been away – Tommy having a child, John having a child, Arthur getting married and you’d decided that, despite missing nearly every other big event in your family’s lives, you weren’t about to miss Tommy Shelby getting married.

So, you’d written to Grace, someone you’d already met and become quite close to, despite living so far away, and asked if she’d allow you to attend his wedding and surprise them all. And then, maybe, move in with her and Tommy since you’d dropped out of school.

Two days before the wedding, you’d arrived back in Birmingham, suitcases in hand. You weren’t expecting anyone to greet you since you hadn’t actually told anyone you were coming back, but there was Grace, waiting for you with a bouquet of flowers and a huge smile on her face.

You’d all but sprinted across the road to hug her.

“Hey,” Grace chuckled, hugging you back tightly as you clung to her.

“Never let me do something like that again,” you muttered to her.

“I promise,” Grace said as you let go. She smiled at you, tucking a piece of hair behind your ear. “How does it feel to be back on home turf?”

“I never thought I’d miss Birmingham, but I really missed Birmingham,” you admitted, taking a deep breath in. “It stinks but I love it.”

Grace smiled as she opened the car door for you, allowing you to dump your suitcases and slide across to the passenger seat. “I thought we could have a day to ourselves tomorrow before the chaos of the wedding.”

“A Shelby wedding wouldn’t be a Shelby wedding without chaos, Grace,” you told her, “it’s what makes us so unique.”

“Stressful is a better word, I believe,” she muttered, turning the engine on and pulling away from the curb.

/

“Why am I panicking?” You asked, pacing up and down Grace’s room whilst she put the finishing touches to her outfit. “I mean, I’m not the one getting married, am I? I’m just seeing my family again at a wedding without telling them –“

“Y/N,” Grace said, forcing you to sit down on the bed, “calm down. It’ll be fine. They’ll all cry and then hug you and then get drunk.”

“That’s what happened last time,” you replied, “so I’d be ok with that. I just don’t want Tommy to feel like I’ve taken the limelight away from him and you.”

Grace sat down next to you with a sigh. “He hasn’t stopped talking about you and how much he wishes you were here since he last saw you, y/n. He’ll be over the moon to see you – they all will.”

“Linda won’t.”

“Fuck Linda.”

You stared at Grace. “We’ve corrupted you already!”

Grace just sighed and shook her head. “It’s too late for any of us, y/n, we’ve all been corrupted.”

“Do I look ok?” You asked suddenly, standing up and smoothing down your dress nervously.

“You look beautiful, sweetheart,” Grace said, putting the crown of flowers on top of your head. “You also look scarily like Tommy.”

“Yeah, I get that a lot.”

/

You gripped Grace’s hand tightly as the carriage rolled to a stop outside the church. Your stomach was coiling tightly and you were completely terrified.

“It’ll be fine,” Grace whispered.

Her father, who’d been very surprised to see you, got out first and extended a hand to you. You took it and allowed him to help you down from the carriage, making sure the heels of your shoes didn’t get caught in your dress. Grace followed behind you and you gathered up the back of her veil to make sure it didn’t get muddy or tangled up.

You could hear them all. You couldn’t see them, but just hearing them sent your heart all over the place.

“Ready?” Grace asked as she handed you some flowers. The music started up and there was a rustle as everyone stood up.

You nodded, taking a deep breath in and turning to face the aisle. Unlike most weddings, Grace wanted you walking down with her. You had decided to walk slightly behind her to allow her the spotlight, but you knew they’d still all see you.

Grace began walking down, shooting you a comforting smile over her shoulder as you followed, gripping onto the flowers tightly.

Ironically, Finn, the most unobservant person in the family, noticed you first. He gaped at you as soon as he spotted you and smacked Isaiah on the chest, pointing. That then led to Isaiah staring at you as well and you offered them both a cheeky wave as you passed.

Finn then tapped John on the shoulder and pointed you out to him and he immediately began pointing you out to everyone else in the family.  

Tommy saw his wife – to – be first and his sister, the person he arguably loved the most, second and his heart stopped. You smiled at him as Grace stopped in front of him and stepped forward to take her flowers from her, giving Tommy a quick kiss as you passed him.

“Surprise,” you whispered to Arthur as you sat down next to him, putting the flowers next to you. Arthur pulled you into his side and hugged you tightly as the priest began droning on.

"I’ve missed you,” Arthur whispered, kissing your head. “We’ve all missed you.”

You smiled up at him, grabbing his hand and giving it a squeeze. “I’m back now, for good.”

/

The first thing Tommy did after he’d walked out the church with his new wife, was run up to you and lift you up in a giant hug.

You giggled, holding onto him as he spun you around. “Hey, Tommy.”

“What are you doing here?” Tommy exclaimed, setting you back down on the ground.

“I decided that I didn’t want to miss out on anymore big events so, I sort of, dropped out of school…”

Tommy just laughed. “Thank god, I would never have admitted but I’ve really missed you and wished you’d come back.”

“Yeah, Grace said you hadn’t shut up about missing me,” you teased, and Tommy shoved gently.

“If it isn’t the one and only y/n!” John exclaimed, scooping you up and hugging you.

“Surprise!” You exclaimed, kissing his cheek and wrapping your arms around him. “I got fed up of school.”

“To right!” John exclaimed, setting you down on the ground. “It’s been boring without you, gorgeous.”

“Well, I am the life of this family,” you said, fluffing your hair.

Whilst the rest of the family dispersed to go chat to other people, Tommy stayed next to you, an arm around your shoulders.

“I’m not going to suddenly disappear, Tom,” you said softly, putting your hand up to his. “I’m here for good.”

Tommy nodded, leaning down to kiss your head. “I know you are; I’m just making up for lost time.”

You said nothing in reply. Instead, you simply nestled against his shoulder and sighed happily.

[notquitedickens]

Home Part 2 (Michael Gray x Reader)

Part 1

It’s finally here! After a year and 2 months, we have the second part of this series. 

I stepped off the train into the familiar dirty streets of Birmingham, glad I was wearing my old boots, the mud-caked shoes would look better with the black soot coating them instead. Michael on the other hand, his freshly shined shoes were going to become matte the second he started walking through the greying Small Heath. The smoke clouds hung low, dimming the light in the wide street that we were travelling down the centre of, unafraid of potential cars, which to be fair could be heard a mile off even if they weren’t seen. I could see Michael struggling with the grimy air as he squinted and coughed, not being used to anything more than his father’s cigar smoke filling the kitchen. I offered him my hand for comfort as I guided him towards my uncle’s house.

My uncle opened the door with a cheery grin, offering us tea as we sat down. He’d become rather a good host in recent years since it was the only form of company he got. He lost his wife and unborn during the birth of his second child. His son died a few years ago. It was due to his son joining the same gang that he did. The Peaky Blinders. He got put out of action with a heart condition and now survived off of the Blinder’s pity money. He still didn’t hate the brothers, no matter how hard he tried.

“So, Michael, can I have that name please?” I asked once I had caught up with my uncle and finished my second cup of tea. I could see his knee bouncing anxiously in the corner of my eye as he struggled to down the cup of cold tea he held in his hand.

“Elizabeth Gray.” He said with more enthusiasm than he should have, he noticed and retreated back in his chair as my uncle chuckled.

“Polly is your mother?” He asked, not quite sure he heard the boy correctly.

“Apparently. A man came to my house to tell me, he wasn’t from the agency.” Michael continued. “Mother didn’t want me to know so I’m sure it was correct.”

“It’s true, it was a pain getting him here.” I smiled. “She refused to let him out of her sight, ended up climbing out of the window.”

“So you know the address already then?” Michael sat forward again, stopping the conversation swerving further.

“I know the old one. Tommy bought her a new house just outside of town, not got the address to that.” My uncle replied. “They still go to the old place daily.”

“Since when has Tommy had that money?” I asked, raising my brow.

“Since he had the money to buy the Garrison.” He replied with a chuckle. “Was going to the reopening but you kids are here so I’m not.”

“I’d suggest going but I don’t think meeting your mother when she’s drunk is a good idea.” I continued, resting a hand on Michaels shaking one.  “I’ll take you to the shop in the morning, go get some sleep Michael, it’s getting late as it is.”

“You sure you’re not just sneaking out to go see that boy?” My uncle chuckled.

“I haven’t done that since I was 15, we still aren’t a thing Georgie.” I rolled my eyes. “Bet you still don’t know who it was anyway.”

“Oh I know it was a blinder.”

“That’s because any other boy I wouldn’t have to sneak around with. Charlie would’ve killed them if he knew.”

“So would Michael, judging by the look on his face.”

I turned to see what George was talking about and he was right. Michael had rapidly downed the last of his tea and was gripping onto the handle of the china as if it had just killed his mother and he was trying to strangle it. His knuckles were almost as white as the set itself and the scratched flowers looked like little weeds growing from under his flesh. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the delicate paint transferred onto his skin, inking the ghosts of flowers onto his palms for the rest of the night. Thankfully, Georgie had used the old chipped tea set as he didn’t have the time to go into the attic to find it before we came. Once Michael noticed I was looking at him he let go of the cup, the sound of the china clashing echoed around the now quiet kitchen.

“Yes, I think you’re right I’ll go to my room now.” Michael stood from his seat, nodding at George before leaving the room.

I followed him out, partly to make sure that George made the bed up correctly but mainly to check that Michael was alright. In the small house, it didn’t take long to arrive at the door of the spare room and as I suspected, the bed was bare with the sheets still in a pile on the top. I sighed, without a word to Michael I began putting the sheets on the bed with him watching from the doorway.

“You okay?” I asked, tucking in the last corner of the bottom sheet. “I’ll be there with you to meet your mother, I’ll be able to distract the boys long enough for you to have a proper conversation I hope.”

“Thank you, I guess the nerves of being away from home and meeting my real family is getting to me.” Michael’s voice was unconvincing, I could tell he was silently praying I didn’t notice the half-truth he was telling so I didn’t pry.

I turned to him with a soft smile after fluffing the pillows for good measure. “You’re with me, we can phone home tomorrow once you’ve met Pol, okay?” He nodded and I gave him a hug before I left the room. “Sleep well.”

I heard him shut the door behind me as I headed back down to help my Uncle clear up. He had passed out on the sofa in the living room, teacup discarded on the small table in front of him. I smiled. That was the Uncle Georgie I knew, half-finished jobs and falling asleep anywhere. I quietly took the blanket from the other chair and draped it over his body, saying a quiet goodnight and taking the cups to the kitchen. As I filled the sink with water someone knocked on the door. I poked my head back into the living room to check if George had woken up and thankfully he hadn’t or he’d be kicking up a storm about someone coming over this late. Another knock echoed through the house and I rushed to open the door.

“Alice? I didn’t know you were visiting, George normally goes on about it for weeks before you come.” The man stated as I stepped out the door and shut it, making sure the boys didn’t wake up. “I was just coming to see why he didn’t show up tonight.”

“I didn’t know I was visiting until yesterday either.” I smiled at the man. “How come you’re sober on a night as grand as the Shelby boys opening a pub, John?”

“The new wife made a bet that I couldn’t go a night without drinking.” He chuckled.

“And you succeeded?” I teased. “Impressive.”

“Is George doing okay? Passed out on the sofa from such an exciting day?”

“You hit the nail on the head there. I’m just clearing up the dishes and I was going to retire myself.”

“Well, I won’t keep you any longer. Not at this hour anyway.” John kissed my forehead and started to walk away.

“Night John, don’t tell the other’s I’m back okay?”

[shelbylimiited-blog]

alive // john shelby & reader

summary:

set before john goes off to war, when the brothers business is starting to take off. john has the money to take reader on a date.

request(s):

can I request a john fic where him and the reader are just really playful and all in love. just dead cute fluff will do really x

“Oi! [Y/N]!”

A familiar voice called out from behind you as you walked through the crowded streets of Small Heath. You turned quickly on your step, raising block the beaming sun and squinting in the direction of the shout. There was John Shelby, clear as day, striding towards you with an indescribable grin painted on his lips.

“Hello, John.” You chuckled as he planted a kiss on your cheek. John has always been very affectionate with you, ever since the two of you were ten. Now, you were eighteen and he had not changed a bit.

“I’m taking you out tonight.”

“Out? As in on a date?” You inquired, furrowing your eyebrows.

“Yeah! A date, if that’s what you want to call it.” He laughed, his voice slightly mumbled due to the cigarette hanging between his lips. “Soooo… I’ll pick you up at seven. Alright?”

“Alright!” You nodded with a smirk. John dragged on his fag and pulled it from its place between his lips.

“Okay, I’ll see you later then.” He began to walk away, towards the same direction he came from. You couldn’t help but gaze at him. He turned around, facing you once more. “Oh! And wear something fancy!” John shouted back again, causing the rest of those gathered in the street to turn to his direction. A giggle left from your lips at his his sudden outburst. You loved that boy.

You’d spent the next four hours getting ready for your date. It wasn’t often that you would be able to go to fancy places like where John was taking you, so you planned to make the most of it. The butterflies fluttering around in your stomach seemed to be getting larger and larger with every minute seven o’clock grew closer. It made you feel like a schoolgirl again, one getting giddy over a boy who you would kiss in the playground. You stood in front of the mirror five minutes before John was set to arrive, you couldn’t help fumbling with your appearance; fluffing your hair, applying more lipstick, smoothing your dress. You were cut off by a sharp knock on the door. Before opening the door, your eyes fluttered to the clock above the fireplace reading seven exactly. With a deep breath that filled your chest, you swung open the door. John was lent nonchalantly against the wall beside it, but when hearing it open he quickly moved to stand tall before you. As his eyes laid on the sight of you, he sighed heavily.

“What?” You asked, noticing the change in his features. “Is it too much?”

“No, no, no. It’s not that. It’s just… fuck me. You’re really fucking pretty, ain’t you.” John jokingly grasped onto his chest, you stepped out from the doorway to playfully slap him on the arm. With a strong grasp, he pulled you in close to body and the two of you set off down the cobbled street lit by warm street lights and a silver moon.

You and John sat over a candlelit dinner in a posh Italian restaurant with violinists playing in the background was something you never thought would happen in reality. Maybe a night spent in the back row of a dark cinema or having a drink at The Garrison, but never something this fancy – not when you lived in Small Heath, not with the wage slip you earned. You could see John felt rather uncomfortable. This was definitely not his usual scene. Every time the waiter came over, he would tug on his collar and clear his throat with a cough as though he didn’t know how to respond. You knew John. And you knew that he just wanted to take you out somewhere nice, somewhere he thought was good enough for you. But you also knew that he did not want to be here.

“John,” he looked up at you as you wrapped your hand around the back of his, “lets go.”

“No, we’re going to sit here and we’re going to have a nice, candlelit dinner with music playing in the background.” John spoke as though he was reassuring himself, rather than you. You smiled at him, it was sweet that he wanted to give you the best. But all you wanted was his company.

“John. You don’t want to be here. I know you.”

He stared at you, his mouth gaping – he couldn’t even deny. You rose from your chair and moved around the table so that you were standing before him. As John gazed at you – half in awe, half in confusion – you held a hand out in front of him. With furrowed eyebrows, he hesitantly took it. Instantly, you pulled him from his seat.

“Fuckin’ hell, [Y/N]! Careful!” John shouted as you thoughtlessly dragged him through the restaurant and out onto the streets. You felt alive when the cold air of the British night hit you and filled your lungs in a second. With your hand still clasped around his, you and John ran with no particular destination. He let out a howl of laughter as the two of you hauled one another down the path. This was more like you and John: running freely down the streets at night, way past your curfew, and ignoring the shouts from your neighbours demanding you quieten down, not confined into one small restaurant crowded with people. You were young and free. That’s how you felt when you were with John: alive.

“Hey, hey. Wait.” John stopped, and you consequently were prevented from going any further to. He pulled you back with a tug of his hand. With a certain look you just could not describe, one where his eyes lit up at the sight of you and the corners of his lips lifted slightly into an almost-smile as though he was simply stunned, he placed his hands to your face.

“I fucking love you, you know.”

“I know you do, John. I love you too.” You grinned at him and playfully pushed against his chest, but he kept tight hold of your face and pressed a kiss to your lips, followed with a number of pecks around your face. You smiled broadly and light-heartedly hit his chest, screaming at him to stop through fits of giggles.

“Nope, come on.” he bent down and wrapped his arms around your thighs, where he picked you up and threw you over his shoulder. With a scream of laughter, you clung on to his back.

“Where are we going?!”

“You’re coming home with me tonight.”

[sceawere]

conquest | luca changretta

i lied, this isn’t the chapter that corresponds with the finale, more like the end of episode 5, i needed to clear some stuff up first but anyway, here you go

previous chapters:

[PART ONE: RISK] [PART TWO: UNDERSTANDING] [PART THREE: INCENTIVE] [PART FOUR: ASSOCIATION] [PART FIVE: EVALUATION]

“You’re too far out, Joey, come here” you jogged over, shuffled the little boy further in, and squatted next to him. You switched the ball into the other hand, and pointed down an invisible line “You keep your eyes right there, yeah? You can’t go wrong”

He nodded, raring to go, and you fluffed his hair before moving back towards the middle of the group of kids.

“Right, bat up, here we go”

He fidgeted with the slightly-too-big cricket bat for a moment, face pinched in focus as you prepared to bowl. There was a rumble behind you as you did, and you followed the ball from the bat, to the air, to behind you. The rumble was cars pulling into the courtyard, and the ball was heading straight for the convoy.

“Oh, shit” you mumbled, just as it bounced off the span of shiny black metal with a clunk, and trundled to a stop on the gravel before the wheel. You heard the gasp of the children behind you, the plonk of the wooden bat hitting the paving, and the patter of hurried feet back up the fire escapes.

You had to roll your lips between your teeth, and dip your head for a moment, as Matteo and Luca climbed out of the car. You could just about hold in the laugh, and gripped your hips a little tighter, raising your head.

“Welcome home, honey” you called out, laugh finally breaking through as you saw Matteo wipe down the point of impact.

“They dented my car!” he shouted, followed shortly after by a quick rumble of Italian aimed at the now empty stairways.

“Thought you borrowed them?” you teased, face screwed up in mock confusion. It dissolved, and a smirk broke through, as Luca moved over to you.

He looked over you, then the scene behind you, then you again.

“Making yourself useful?” he teased, smiling when you gave a mock punch to his gut. You pushed up onto your toes, arms wrapping around his neck to yank him down.

“Stop being tall, it’s inconvenient” you mumbled as you pulled back from the kiss, stepping backwards, and dragging him with you.

“You like that I’m tall”

“Do I?”

“Yeah, I think so- “he grabbed you, lifting you up, and heading towards the building. You shrieked a laugh, slapping at his back.

“Oh, welcome home Matteo. Thanks, sweetheart. London was terrible, thanks very much for asking. I hate this place” Matteo mumbled, stomping after the two of you.

-

“Not to ruin the moment” you mumbled, and Luca hummed. You pushed up and looked at him “I have theories, and proposals”

“Sure” he replied, still sleepy. It had been a long drive up from London, and he seemed exhausted, even after sleeping the whole night.

“I just want to get things sorted before- “

“Yeah” he agreed, eyes still closed. You smiled at him, and shuffled up to his side.

“What’s your plan? For after?”

He looked up at you, shuffling his spine to get comfortable again.

“What do you mean? After what?”

“I mean after the vendettas over. Are you…just gonna go home, or?”

“You getting attached, sweetheart?” he teased, and you didn’t even bother to sigh.

“Yeah” you admitted, and he smiled, eyes falling shut again. You placed your hand over his heart, and he covered it with his own “I want you to stay. You said about staying and I…want that”

“You don’t want to come to New York with me? Brand new city, fresh start- “he pushed up onto his side, nuzzling his nose against yours. Your hands stayed pressed at his chest, and he rolled his fingers into the hollows of yours “thought you’d want the adventure”

You shook your head, biting your lip.

“I don’t think I’d fit in New York”

“Everyone fits in New York, sweetheart, that’s the point”

“I’d get restless”

“It’s New York” he reminded you, and you sighed.

“I’d miss the trees”

“We have parks” he laughed, watching you flop to the pillows in a sulk.

“I’m not done here. Not yet”

“Ah, so we get to the truth of it”

“I wasn’t making excuses” you argued, and he nodded.

“Bad ones”

“Shut up” you gave a lazy kick out at his leg.

“What’s your plan?” he asked, and you rolled your lip through your teeth again.

“Me and…Polly, Ada, Lizzie, some of the other women…all the women basically” you finally settled on “had a vision for a better future. For the family. For the company. Only we didn’t really get around to it because Tommy got everyone locked up and nearly hanged. Anyway, the vision is still there. And I think I can be the one to enact it”

“Explain it to me”

“Well, that’s the thing. I don’t think it can work”

He frowned, and looked over at the window when there was a commotion outside. It sounded like the kids setting off for school, or at least that’s what you assumed as you glanced at the clock. It usually happened around this time, and you’d worked out a little schedule, how this place worked.

“I think Shelby Co. is done. Not over, just too set in it’s ways. Michael was being set up as Tommy’s successor and I assumed once he was gone, if you got rid of him, that we’d be able to put the plan in place and reform it, but I was wrong.

I think we need to start from scratch. Build from the foundations up, it’s the only way”

“What you thinking?” he frowned, but still smiling, trying to work you out.

“I’m thinking…we start an organisation. Not an extension of Shelby Co. Not an extension of the New York business. We can work with them both, but we’d be an outfit of our own. Word is Alfie is setting up to retire. It’s why he took your deal. Last job on the way out of the door. The London boys can’t keep a truce going longer than a few months and it’s tearing the place up. If Alfie leaves, no way Sabini won’t try to assume his territory”

“You think we should let him have it?”

“No, I think we should have it”

Luca’s smile spread over his face slowly, and he let out a little laugh.

“Every time I think I have you worked out…you surprise me”

You smiled, feeling more secure in your plan as you went on.

“Yeah, and everyone else will underestimate me too. We use that to our advantage. They’ll get sloppy, and they’ll get complacent, and we sweep in and clear the place up. I’ve watched Tommy all this time, I’ve handled the factory. I’ve seen how things work, and what mistakes get made, I know what to do and what to avoid. You know how to fight a war, I know how to run a kingdom.

You win me the territories, and I’ll hold them. I’ll make them thrive, trust me”

“I do trust you” he insisted, and you loved how quickly his eyes got serious.

“We work quick, we take what Alfie leaves before anyone even realises he’s gone. We hold the line. Continuity is important. We should leave most of his lieutenants in place, I know a lot of them from Tommy’s dealings and they know how to run the Jewish neighbourhoods better than we do. It’s better for everyone if we leave them in place. This isn’t so much a conquest as a…well, no, it’s kind of conquesty. Oh no”

He laughed at your realisation, at the forlorn look on your face.

“Don’t go getting soft on me, sweetheart”

“I should ring Ollie” you whispered to yourself, and Luca waited as your mind whirred.

“Doll, come on, I’m losing you”

You took a deep breath, trying to re-orient yourself.

“Right, so…we just hold the line for a while, let people settle into it, show them we’re not the big bad”

“Aren’t we?”

“Your dad paid his tithe to Tommy because he knew it was the best course. There was no reason for war up until the end. You pay your money, the world keeps turning, everyone gets to live their life. We won’t make the mistakes…” you paused, swallowing “John fucked up, and we’ll know better. He went too far, he made it worth a war”

Luca’s hand skimmed over your ribs, giving you time to collect yourself.

“People think I’m not paying attention when I’m quiet in the corner, but I listened, and I learned. I learned watching my dad settle disputes between families. I learned watching Polly run the shop while the boys were off at war. And I read the papers, I learned how war worked. Ada took me to Communist Party meetings, and we debated politics on the bus home” you smiled, memories flooding back to you “Uncle Charlie taught us how to run a yard, and Tommy taught me how to run a factory, and I kept my head down, and my eyes open, and I learned”

You took a deep breath, keeping your eyes to his proud gaze.

“I’m ready to use what I’ve learned. I’m ready to make my own choices. I’m ready to stop running away when it gets scary. I’m ready”

“Are you? Cos this isn’t academic anymore, sweetheart, you understand that?”

“I understand. I can do this. I kept Tommy’s legitimate business running ship shape, and I can-”

“This isn’t legitimate business” he reminded you.

“I’m a quick learner”

He dropped his head back to the pillow, closing his eyes as he listened.

“You said yourself the…agreement with Sabini is a marriage of convenience. Except now you’re sticking around and moving onto the scene, it’s not particularly convenient anymore. Sabini was fine with you being around for a few months while you got your business done, but after that, he’s going to get twitchy. And Sabini’s fucking unbearable at his best, so when he’s uncomfortable- “

You sat up, crawled to the end of the bed, and reached to slam the window shut as a particularly cool breeze rolled through. Luca watched as you turned back, trying to navigate over his legs under the covers and not knee anything important.

“Anyway, take his shit and do better is the long and short of it”

His eyebrows rose, and his smile grew, a laugh pouring out of him as you looked down at him.

“I’m serious”

“You’re really advocating for a regime change, huh?”

“I’m advocating for a little empire building, dearest” you replied, your own smile widening. He settled, looking up at you. You kept his gaze for a few moments, before moving to his side, and getting under the covers again.

“I’m serious. You need to cement yourself. And if that gets me some of my very selfish goals of keeping you alive, safe, and wiping off a guy I’ve thought was an unbearable twat from the start, then…” you trailed off, giving a little shrug.

“What did he ever do to you?” Luca teased, looking over at you until his smile dropped. He propped himself up a little, staring into you “Did he do something to you?”

“Look at you...getting all protective. Mrs Imundi will be so proud. She thinks you’re respectable, you know. I don’t know what gave her that impression”

“You’re making friends with the old lady down the hall?”

“I get bored, Luca. You’re off doing your little vendetta and I’m here on my lonesome, with nothing to do but learn Italian from a cute old lady and bake cakes and…plan criminal enterprise”

“My girl runs a factory, she cooks, she plans empires. Anything she can’t do?” he questioned, and you huffed.

“Shoot straight” you muttered, and he laughed.

“Those damn pigeons, huh?”

“Listen, if they couldn’t fly, those things would be fucked” you argued, and he shook his head “I’m serious. I think they’re actually kind of cute, but…they’d be done for”

“She’s been teaching you Italian?” he asked, and you fell quiet as he turned to you “Go on”

You opened your mouth, and then sighed. You pressed your lips together and shook your head. He laughed, moving his hand to your waist.

“Come on, I wanna hear”

You shook your head again.

“Why not?”

“I said I was learning, not that I was remembering”

He laughed, dipping his head for a moment, and you gave a little whimper.

“Try” he asked, and you furrowed your brows, eyes searching his.

“You’re doing this to wind me up and I don’t appreciate it”

“No, I’m doing it because I can imagine it, and I wanna know if it’s half as good as it is in my head”

“It won’t be…believe me” you argued, and he smiled at you.

“Come on, make me melt” he teased, and you fell back, pulling the pillow over your face in frustration. He pulled it off after a moment, and you huffed. He stayed there, propped on his elbow, staring down at you with that stupid smirk on his face.

“Matteo taught me to swear, you know. I can tell you off in three languages now, how about that?”

He laughed, dipping his head to lay kisses at your collar. You pushed up onto your elbows, lifting one hand to card through his hair.

“We’re idiots” you mumbled. Your elbow shifted in the mattress, reasserting your balance. Luca traced the tip of his thumb over his forehead, letting the weight of his arm continue its movement to drop to the pillow besides you.

“Enlighten me” he drawled, and you shifted, your foot catching a roll in the covers. You pulled them up and around your legs more, shutting out the draught that caught your toes.

“We’ve known each other what, two or three months? I’m lying in your bed plotting to start a criminal empire with you. How the fuck did that happen?” the end came out more as a mutter to yourself, a question you didn’t really want answered. Answers might sour the way your skin rolled at his touch, how you arched into the warmth of his body.

“It’s half your bed” he replied, ignoring the larger point. The smirk on his face showed it was intentional. He never had got over his affection for winding you up.

“This was always the way it would happen though, I suppose” you dropped your head back, settling into the pillows. He shifted slightly onto his side, tracing a hand down the side of your face.

“How it would happen?” he muttered, pressing his lips to your forehead. There was a tingle of stubble there, tingling at your skin. You’d been lying in bed too long.

“We never made plans. We’d be somewhere, and then we’d be somewhere else. Move with the migrations, with the sun, with the breeze. Let your feet decide where they took you. Guess my heart wanted to walk a path of its own as well” you smiled to yourself, tucking further into his chest “I always thought I’d be too restless to stick around with someone, yet here I am, planning our empire”

“Is this your roundabout way of giving me a compliment, doll?” you scoffed, but he continued “because you can just say ‘you’re really special, Luca’ and it would- “

You grabbed the blankets and threw them up over your heads, plunging you into darkness.

-

The door peaked open, and you leant forward from your place on the counter.

“You decent?” Matteo called out, and you reached behind you to pick up another sweet from the packet.

“Not for a while now, but I’ve got clothes on, if that’s what your asking” you replied, stuffing the sugary treat into your mouth. Luca smiled from his place at the table as you swung your legs out a little.

Matteo appeared around the corner, leaning against the oddly coloured paintwork.

“You been telling tales about me?” he asked, face so serious it was almost intimidating, but you laughed anyway, tucking your head into your lap. You heard the crinkle of the newspaper, and Luca’s own chuckle.

You sat back up, flicking your hair out of the way, sighing.

“You were gone nearly a week, Matti boy, I had to find something to occupy my time. Besides, you got there first. Mrs Imundi told me all about your little chats”

“I just got accosted – she wouldn’t let me leave for over an hour!” he motioned towards the doorway, and you looked over at Luca, who was shaking his head at the two of you.

“I only said good things!” you argued, swinging your head back around to him. His eyes flared, and he stepped closer to you.

“Alright, alright. Everybody, simmer down” Luca said, flicking the newspaper once more.

“She feed you?” you asked, slapping your hand to him shoulder a few times.

“She did, yeah”

“She fed you”

“She did”

“Well, then” you slid down off the counter, and moved to sit on Luca’s lap. You eyed the story he was reading, about the strikes “Stop bloody moaning”

“Boss, I don’t like this girl” Matteo shook his head, picking at the bundle of wax paper on the counter, trying to work out it’s contents. He considered it for a few moments, taking a piece, and throwing it into his mouth.

“You like my sweets though, huh?”

“You make these?” he asked, pointing at them. You shook your head, leaning your head against Luca’s. His hair was still damp from the bath as you worked your fingers through the strands.

“Needed something to keep me occupied, there’s about fifteen tins in that cupboard” you waved a lazy hand over, and Matteo paused in his chewing. He stepped back, hooked a finger under the cupboard door, and looked inside.

“She gets restless” Luca explained, as Matteo flicked open tins.

“And I thought it best to keep Tommy’s men occupied while your guys sorted out some comings and goings, so I toddled off to the market one afternoon, and they followed me like good little lapdogs. Made it worth my while, there’s- “you motioned to a particular pot, and Matteo did a few unsuccessful points at the wrong boxes as you tried to guide him to the right one “candied peel in that one. It’s good. My mother used to make it for us”

He scoffed, but pinched out a piece anyway.

“Can’t imagine Polly as the- “

“My birth mum” you interjected, eyes stuck to the paper. You saw his pause in your periphery, and he put the tin back quietly.

“It’s good” he agreed, coming to sit at the table.

“Don’t be weird, Matteo. It’s uncomfortable” you replied, and he gave a little smile “So, London. Productive?”

“Alfie was exactly how you said he’d be” Matteo returned, and you smiled at the tone of his voice, wondering exactly what he’d said this time.

“Yeah, that’s Alfie”

“We got what we needed” Luca explained, pushing the paper away.

“Don’t trust him, though. Watch this be the one time he decides not to screw Tommy over” you reminded him, getting up and moving towards the kettle. You lit the stove, filling it with water, and setting it over the flames. You turned and rested against the counter.

“We’ve got some contingencies in place” Matteo explained, and you looked between them.

“Like what?” you asked, and he looked up to Luca, seeking approval.

“Tell her” Luca instructed, rising from his seat. He planted a kiss on your cheekbone, winking at you as he moved towards the bedroom “She’s part of the family now, too”

Matteo turned to you, still chewing a piece of peel. He looked you over, not convinced.

“No, really. I’m going to be your boss soon, looks like”

His face fell, and he settled into the chair further as he huffed.

“Boss!”

-

Luca cleared away the plates that evening, while Matteo told old tales of their misspent youth.

“I’m halfway over the wall when this cranky old guy from our neighbourhood starts hollering about robbers. Starts shouting at his wife to bring his gun. Well, I’m only one leg over- “Matteo mimed his position on the edge of the chair, and you laughed even harder “I get so startled, I jump three feet in the air trying to clear that thing, catch my ankle”

He slapped his hands together, waving them in the air.

“I went flying like a fucking bird, upside down into Auntie’s garden. Luca has to catch me to save me from breaking every bone in my body. I nearly tore his shoulder out it’s socket”

You pulled your legs up as you laughed again, clutching the bottle in your hand.

“She never forgave me for trampling those damn roses” he laughed, reaching for the bottle, and refilling his glass.

“I had a bruise down half my arm for weeks. Look like I’d tried to smash my way through a wall. Had scrapes all over me” Luca added, shrugging at the end.

“Bet you snuck out again the next weekend, though” you replied, catching your breath.

“The next night” they both laughed, and you shook your head at them.

“Oh, boys, what am I gonna do with the two of you?” you teased.

“I haven’t even started on the- “Matteo paused as the phone in the entry way rang, and Luca got up to answer it.

“Yeah?” he lifted one arm to rest on the wall above his head, leaning close to the phone, as if someone was right behind him listening. You frowned when he turned and looked over at you.

“Yeah, hang on” he replied to whoever was on the other end, and stepped back to motion to you “It’s for you”

You frowned even further, raising from the chair. Yes, people knew you were staying with Luca. But they shouldn’t know where. Even Tommy’s men only knew you were somewhere in the 200-room building. Luca’s face showed he was thinking the same thing as you took the receiver from him, and placed it to your ear.

“Yes?” you asked, apprehensive to hear which voice came through.

“I’ve had a fucking day and I need a chat, you free?”

You exhaled, wiping over your face as you laughed to yourself.

“Ada, you had me fucking bouncing. How the hell did you get this number?”

“When I have I ever not been able to find you, eh?”

“Ada”

“Even that time when we were twelve and you were in that hayloft for a week” she carried on, ignoring you.

“It was three days, and are you ever going to let that go?”

“One of the women who lives above you is an old friend from the cause. She recognised you and wondered whether you were entirely there of your own will” she explained.

“Well, I won’t tell Luca any of that and you better not tell anyone else any of it either” you whispered, moving further around the corner.

“How is your new man?” she asked, and you pushed your tongue into your cheek at her tone.

“He’s fine”

“Hmmm”

“Ada, when did I ever get at you about Freddie?”

There was a non-committed noise at the other end, and you smiled at your victory.

“You used to be the girl hiding out in odd places with enemy number one, remember those days?”

“Remember those mistakes” she replied, and you rolled your eyes.

“You wouldn’t change shit, admit it”

“Easier to say at this end, though isn’t it?”

“Ada, I thought you wanted to discuss the events of today, not those of yesteryear”

“I got arrested” she replied, so quick and casual, you almost didn’t catch it.

“Wait, what?” you spat, pushing away from the wall.

“Soldiers turned up at the door, dragged me off to a dingy basement somewhere. Strip searched me- “ “What the fuck!” you shouted, and the boy appeared around the corner. You waved them off, lifting the phone off the little shelf, and carried it clutched at your stomach awkwardly, dragging the cord behind you back to the table. It rattled and clanged as it was dropped to the table, replaced in your hand by the bottle as you poured yourself a refill.

“There’s a new guy around” she continued.

“Soldier?” you asked, and she hummed.

“Colonel Younger” she replied, giving an airy tone, only slightly laced with malice. You took a long sip, ignoring the men as they stared at you.

“Sounds like a cunt, was he a cunt?”

She laughed, and you settled back in the chair, glass in hand.

“Apparently he and Tommy…they knew each other in the war or…something. Bit of a toff, but…not what I was expecting”

“Ooohh, Ada. Is that a little bit of- “?

“No”

“No, I definitely think there was some interest in your tone. Well, well”

“Shut up!” she spat back.

“Was he nice?”

“I was naked and angry for most of it. He was offering me a deal”

“He can still be pretty and productive” you argued back, and she scoffed.

“He started talking about the old days. He’s got files on us all. All of us” she emphasised, and you sighed, flicking a look to Luca.

“Why’s he sniffing around?”

“Because Tommy made a deal” she replied, and you groaned.

“Fucking Tommy!” you shouted, dropping your head back “He’s making deals with the Army now? Why?! What does that possibly- “

“He’s going to work with them to fuck the communists, apparently”

“I thought he was already fucking communists. What happened to…we used to sit around and debate this shit together and now he’s…fucking hell. I miss being twelve”

Ada laughed, and you sighed, wiping your face as Matteo passed you the bottle. You raised it to him in a mock toast and took a swig straight from the bottle.

“Did you give him your ‘people are all shit and I’ve given up’ spiel or did talk of the past rekindle- “

“Fuck off” she cut in, and you laughed “He did it to me, too”

“Did what?”

“Started the plan without telling me” she sighed, and you hummed.

“He does that – wait, what plan?”

“I ‘have a foot in both camps’ apparently. I think they’re going to try and use me as a double agent”

“Oh, well. Doesn’t that sound familiar? Thomas Shelby making someone a double agent against their will, without even telling them until they’re half way to fuckityboo”

You slammed the bottle down, sharing a look with Luca.

“He’s got contracts for military vehicles, sounds like he’s going to be supplying half the world. Says it’s worth about 2 million”

You flared your eyes, adjusting in the chair.

“I used to get excited when his mum gave me pennies to nip the shop, and now he’s throwing stacks of cash around”

“You’re not exactly scrapping anymore, though, are you?” she replied, and you looked around the room.

“You’d be surprised. Besides, Miss ‘Head of International Bullshit’” she laughed, and you smiled down the phone, ignoring the men as they chattered quietly between themselves “none of us are who we were anymore”

“No” she agreed “We’re not”

“No. Speaking of which…” you trailed off, not sure how to phrase it.

“Oh, God. Is he marrying you? You’re not up it already, are you?”

“Well…I…let’s…not even think about that just yet” you spluttered back “Because, no. And, no. And, whoa!”

There was a release of breath on the other end and you sat up properly in the chair, fidgeting with the ring of moisture the glass had made on the table top.

“I’m…working with Luca now. For real” you explained, and waited in the silence. She didn’t reply for a long time.

“Not against you! Not like that. Just…we’re…I can’t tell you”

“You can’t tell me?” she replied, disappointed “You really don’t trust me?”

“It’s not that I don’t trust you. It’s that I don’t trust my own perception anymore”

“So, a good time to be making important decisions like throwing your lot in with a Mafia man, then?”

“Is there ever a good time to do that?” you replied, tone flat. She scoffed a laugh, settling back into the silence.

“He’s sticking around isn’t he? Whatever happens?”

“Well, if he’s dead I doubt he’ll be very productive but…yeah, I know what you mean”

“And you’re going to help him set up over here?”

“Want to join?” you asked, and she laughed “I’m not joking, Ada. I’ve got a plan”

“Oh, God. You sound like Tommy now”

“I’ll forgive that because you’ve had a long day” you shot back, smiling to yourself.

“Sweetheart…” she trailed off, and you heard something in the background, followed by a sigh “I’ve got to go. Karl’s- “

“Yeah, ok, don’t worry yourself. Think on it, though. Remember Polly’s vision? For a better company? What we discussed? I’m in, Ada. I’m going to make it happen”

She sighed down the phone again and you heard her muttering to Karl.

“I’ll…think about it. Look after yourself, yeah?”

“You too. Love you, Ada”

“Love you too”

“Give my love to Karl”

“Yeah. I’ll tell your mum you’re alright as well” she gave a little pointed reminder, and you sighed.

“I take back my love for you, you’re mean, I don’t like you anymore”

“Bye-bye” she laughed, and you dropped the phone back down. You looked up at the guys, switching your view between the two of them.

“Right, let’s talk business”

-

[ramblingthoughtsofayoungadult]

Savage Truths-Platonic!Grace Burgess Imagine ft. Tommy Shelby

Requested: YES

Warnings: some mentions of violence

 To say that the liquor was flowing at Catherine Holton’s party would have been an understatement. There was so much champagne, whiskey, wine, and rum in the enormous flat in West End that it could have filled the English Channel twice over. Unfortunately, all the liquor in the world couldn’t soothe either Grace nor Tommy.

  Their marriage had hit quite the rut ever since Grace accused Y/N of having an affair with her husband. When the woman smartly advised Grace to talk to her husband about it, she tried and it had gone horribly wrong. It had resulted in a shouting match between the two of them that made Grace sleep in Charlie’s room and Tommy leave the house altogether. Unfortunately, he had made the ill decision of seeing Y/N, who was much less than pleased to see him.

   “What are you doin’ here, Tommy?” Y/N asked.

   “Grace thinks I’m interested in you,” Tommy said. 

   “I know, but I haven’t the faintest idea as to why.”

   “Neither do I.” 

   After a moment, Tommy admitted to Y/N that he couldn’t go home that night and Y/N was clear that there was no way on this side of hell that she could let him stay. Y/N wrapped her dark silk robe tighter around her body and huffed.

   “There’s a decent hotel about three miles east, called the Milton. Ask for Raymond and tell him you do business with me. You’ll get a free room for the night, half price every night after that.”

   “I can pay for my own room.”

   Y/N rolled her eyes. “Refusing my offer is like spittin’ in my face. You’ll take the bloody room and go to every meeting you have tomorrow.” 

   “Are you trying to tell me what to do?”

   “I think I have the right to considering you came over here in the middle of the night, woke me up, and asked for a place to say. Should be grateful that I decided not to bring my rifle with me.”

   Y/N’s usually light tone was harder, but she looked at Tommy with concern. However, Tommy couldn’t tell whether it was because she felt bad about his situation or if it was to benefit her.  

   Reluctantly, Tommy took the room but he didn’t sleep at all that night. He spent half the night organizing for the next day’s meetings and the other half upset that Grace would accuse him of having an affair. He’d stopped enjoying the company of other women as soon as he and Grace got serious again----he had become a father after all. Grace hadn’t been jealous of any woman since they got married until Y/N. Of course, Tommy had noticed how fetching Y/N was, but it was hard not to. She had pretty y/e/c eyes, a mouth that seemed to always be in a smirk, and wildly curly hair that never stayed in place. She was also smart, irritatingly smart. Y/N was one of the few women that could match wits with Tommy. The only reason they spent so much time together was because they were partners, and Tommy couldn’t understand why Grace couldn’t understand it. 

   Now, months after their fight, the Shelby couple respectively conversed with other British gangsters at the rich American woman’s party. Catherine’s father was one of the main bootleggers in Chicago and became extremely rich because of the alcohol he would import from England. Somehow, Catherine had convinced her father to allow her to throw a New Year’s Eve party in London and invite every gangster and their wife, girlfriend, or mistress in England. All the men wore black tuxedos and the women wore jewel-toned dresses that were made from either wool, silk or satin along with an obnoxious amount of jewelry. 

  The entire Shelby clan had been invited as well as the Y/L/Ns. When Grace learned the Y/L/Ns had been invited as well, she made an expression as though she’d bitten into a lemon rather than an orange. Fortunately, Grace agreed to be civil and when they arrived at Catherine’s place, Y/N was nowhere to be seen, but her brothers were. They quickly got on with Tommy’s brothers and were currently splitting their time between playing drinking games and dancing. 

  “You’re still in the horse business, right?” Samuel Fields, a racketeerer from Manchester, asked. 

   “Yes,” Tommy said. “But we’re mostly concerned with other areas of business.”

  “Right, you lot expanded,” Samuel said with a nod.

  It was one of the most boring conversations Tommy had ever engaged in and it seemed as though Grace felt the same even though she was smiling it off. She dusted an invisible dust particle off the skirt of her gold silk dress and smiled at Samuel’s platinum blonde fiancee. 

  The fact that Tommy and Grace were able to be in a room together and act civil was a miracle in itself. Tommy had spent nearly a month in London conducting business all while hearing pleas from Polly, Arthur, Ada, and John for him to go back home. Grace would call once in a while, but she couldn’t use Charlie as a  reason for Tommy to come back because he made sure to see Charlie as often as possible. Unfortunately for Grace, it was Y/N that got Tommy to go back home.

   “Tommy, this is ridiculous,” Y/N had said in her office.

   “You’re gettin’ the same amount as always,” Tommy had replied.

   Y/N’s eyes narrowed at Tommy. “You know good and well that I’m not talking about the money. It’s been a month since you’ve been with your wife. You’ve had enough time to lick your wounds, you need to swallow your pride and go back to her.”

   “My marriage is none of your business.”

   “It is when I’ve been dragged into the middle of it.” Y/N’s deft fingers wrapped around her shiny cigarette case, pulled out a cigarette, and plopped it between her lips. “I know when I’m speaking out of turn and now is not one of those moments.” She lit the end of it. “Your place is with Grace and Charlie, and at the head of Shelby Company Limited. This is no way for a married man to live.”

   Tommy would have spoken up if it was anyone else, but he stayed quiet for Y/N, egging her on.

   “You’re supposed to protect your family, right? How much protection are you offerin’ ‘em down here? You’ve made them sitting ducks.”

   “I have men watching them.”

   “Sabini can pull an inside job, you never know because you never look too deeply into your employee’s backgrounds.” Y/N took a long drag of her cigarette before blowing the smoke into the air. “I’ve seen a lot of couples in my time and what you and Grace have shouldn’t be thrown away, I know you lot can sort it out if anyone can.” 

    “Thank you for the vote of confidence, but the trust between Grace and me has been damaged.”

    Then, Y/N leaned forward. “Tell me, Tommy, are you in any way attracted to me?”

    “No.”

    “Have you thought about having sex with me? Have you thought having sex with me while you were having sex with Grace?”

    “No.”

    “And have you told Grace as much?”

    That was when Tommy hesitated. He hated it when someone else was right.

    “Go back home and tell her as much and be real specific so she cannot miss anything.”

    Her advice had worked and Grace and Tommy had made up, but he had been careful not to mention Y/N around Grace because whenever he did, Grace would get a strange look in her eye. Therefore, he didn’t tell her anything about how Y/N persuaded him to go back to her.

    Now, here he was, playing the part of the professional husband. He should be happy and satisfied, but he was neither and he didn’t really know why. 

   “Oi, there she is!” Christopher Y/L/N shouted and began shoving his way through the crowd.

   Tommy followed his gaze and saw Y/N walking in on Alfie’s arm. He was surprised to say the least, especially at how much Alfie was grinning. As soon as Christopher reached them, he picked Y/N up in a hug and swung her around.

   “Put me down, you git!” Y/N snapped, smacking her eldest brother’s broad shoulders.

   Alfie chuckled at the man’s antics as he set Y/N down. William, Patrick, and Elliott Y/L/N tried to do the same to Y/N, but she gave them a look that could have killed a man. 

   “Well, look who’s arrived,” Grace said.

   She looked both intrigued but Tommy knew that she couldn’t have been happier.

   “I didn’t know they knew each other,” Tommy said.

   “We should say hi.”

   Tommy agreed and they excused themselves from the boring conversation and walked over to Alfie, Y/N, and her brothers. 

   “C’mon, Y/N, can’t you take a joke?” Patrick asked.

   “Can’t you act as though mum didn’t drop you on the head a dozen times when you were a baby?” she griped back. 

    Y/N fluffed out the skirt of her ruby red sequin Chanel dress and wrinkled her nose at her brothers.

   “Alfie, I didn’t think you liked parties,” Tommy said.

   Y/N almost immediately straightened up when Tommy spoke and brushed a straightened piece of y/h/c hair behind her ear. 

   “I don’t but I heard the hostess is a bit of a nutter as well as her father. Didn’t want to deal with both of ‘em.” Alfie turned to Grace. “Evenin’, Mrs. Shelby, you look lovely.”

   “Thank you, Alfie.” Grace looked at Y/N. “Evenin’, Y/N.”

   “Evenin, Grace.” 

   “So, how do you two know each other?” Grace asked, her smile getting wider with each passing moment.

   “Oh, Alfie’s a friend of the family, practically,” Elliott interrupted.

   “He needed a date for the party and I agreed,” Y/N said. 

   “You never mentioned that you knew each other,” Tommy said.

   “Never came up.”

   For the rest of the evening, Tommy found himself casting glances at Alfie and Y/N. She talked him into dancing with her at some point and at another, they were off to the side, drinking. Then, she said something that made Alfie laugh and Alfie never laughed. However, the sight of them together made Tommy both angry and sick. It was strange seeing his business partners flirt with each other, but rather than feel uncomfortable, he was irritated.

   Grace didn’t bring it up until they started dancing to a slow song. “I’m glad we came to this party tonight.”

   “Me too.”

   “It makes me feel as though we’re back to normal.” 

    “Yeah.”

   “And I’m glad that Y/N seems to be havin’ such a good time with Alfie.” Grace looked up at Tommy. 

   “Yeah.”

   “That’s all you have to say about it?”

   “What else is there to say? It’s just strange.”

   “Why is it strange for two single people to enjoy each other’s company?”

   “They’re both partners of mine, just kind of strange seein’ ‘em like this.”

   “Well, they are also people.”

   When Tommy stole another glance at Y/N and Alfie, they were walking out of the main room and into a hallway. Y/N had slowly gotten merrier as the night progressed even though she’d once told him that she preferred to keep her head at parties. He wanted to follow them, to make up some excuse and steal Y/N away.

   Why did he care about Y/N and Alfie together? Why couldn’t he be happy that he was back on good terms with his wife? Why couldn’t he stop thinking about Y/N? 

   His thoughts plagued him and his drinking only made his thoughts more frequent. Tommy could barely enjoy Arthur’s drunken toasts or John’s teasing him for them. He nearly missed the count down to the New Year, but snapped out of it when Patrick mentioned Y/N.

   “Where’s she run off to?” Patrick asked.

   “Haven’t seen her in ages,” John replied with a shrug.

   “Well, she wanted a name of a man in Spain for some reason or another and I just got it. I don’t have time to look for her because I’ve got a girl waitin’ for me.”

   “I’ll give her the name tomorrow,” Tommy offered.

    “Great.” Patrick handed him the paper. “Happy New Year.”

   “Happy New Year.”

   Then, the muscular man disappeared into the crowd and Tommy’s drunken mind tried to come up with an excuse to look for Y/N. Before he could make one up, everyone around him screamed “Happy New Year!”

   He kissed Grace as hard as he could, but there was no passion on his end. There used to be so much there, but it felt like whatever passion was left in him had gone away. Tommy couldn’t tell if Grace noticed because when he pulled away, she smiled wistfully at him.

   “Happy New Year, Tom.”

    “Happy New Year, Grace.”

   Tommy finally made up an excuse to leave and with all the people kissing and dancing, no one noticed him slip down the same hallway as Alfie and Y/N had hours ago. He didn’t have to walk far to find them. 

   There they were, in the middle of the hallway, Y/N pressed up against the wall with one leg wrapped around Alfie’s hip. They kissed feverishly as though if they weren’t together for a moment, they would lose all oxygen. Y/N’s manciured hands cupped the back of Alfie’s neck while the older man clawed at her clothes.

   Tommy was furious and angry that he’d gotten so upset at seeing them. He wanted to look away but he couldn’t. It was like a bad dream that he couldn’t wake up from. When he finally walked away, he was shaking and slowly calming down. For a split second, his mind cleared and he realized that he fancied Y/N.

   He really hated when someone else was right.

[peaky-yamyam]

Date - John Shelby

Hello, maybe number 5 and 37, with John, and the reader works for Peaky Blinders and they are secret in love? I love your imagines ❤

“Do you think we’re bad people?” and “I tried my best to not feel anything for you. Guess what? I failed.”

“Hey, everything alright?” John asks as he hands me a few more papers to look through.

“Mhmm,” I mumble wanting desperately to avoid this conversation at work.

“Liar.”

“I'm fine. Honest.”

“Come on… come here,” he says, leading by my elbow to a quiet corner when no-one’s looking. “What's the matter? You've had a face like a slapped arse all day.”

“It's just… never mind. I don't want to talk about it here,” I mutter, folding my arms and leaning against the wall.

“Please. Is someone bothering you? Has something happened?”

I shake my head and worry my lip.

“Is it… is it us?” John asks, although by his tone I can tell he already knows he’s right so I don’t bother trying to deny it.

“Christ, I don't even know what us is John. It all feels so wrong,” I sigh, fluffing my hair to amuse my hands.

“What do you mean ‘it feels wrong’?” John asks, tilting my chin to look at him when I don't answer.

“Well, you're my boss for a start...”

“So? Plenty of people fuck who they work with.”

“Yes well, I don't. I don't sleep around at all in fact, it's not proper is it? And with my boss of all people! My boss whose whole business is based on breaking the law!”

“Do you think we're bad people?” John smirks.

“I help do all your books and clean up your messes, I know you're bad people! And I swear I tried my best to not feel anything for you, I did. But guess what? I failed, couldn't keep my head straight could I... Fuck, this is all so wrong!” I repeat, pacing around the corridor, so lost in my ramble that I don't realise exactly what I've said.

But when I slow, I notice John smirking.

“You have feelings for me?” John jokes.

“Oh… shit…” I mumble.

He takes my hand and spins me so my back’s against the wall again, cupping my cheek in his hand.

“You have feelings for me,” he states smirk growing, “can't get enough of me can you?”

“Shut up, this is why I didn't want to tell you!” I say, slapping his hand away from my cheek. “But yes. I do have feelings for you John, and I don’t want to sneak around and be secretive anymore. I want to be with you properly. And if that can't happen then, I'll get a job somewhere else because I can't keep doing this,” I say gesturing between us, before folding my arms sharply again, preparing for the inevitable rejection.

John nods slowly and rubs a finger along his bottom lip, but doesn't reply, so I take that as answer enough and turn on my heels to leave.

“Oi, wait a second!” he calls, jogging to grab my hand and guide me back to the main office space.

“John, what are you doing?”

“No more secrets or sneaking around... as fun as it was.”

“What do you mean?”

John winks before slamming his fists against the table a few times to get everyone's attention.

“Right, you lot! Me and her, we're together, courting or whatever you want to call it, and I'm fucking crazy about her so any of you even look at her and I'll have your bollocks,” he announces, smiling at me as he says it.

Despite the sudden declaration, it seems no one’s surprised by it; all of them just nodding before returning to their work, but I can't help but feel embarrassed, my cheeks flaring what I know is a horrendous shade of red.

“How's that?” John asks, tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear in a gesture that still feels forbidden given the present company.

“I'd have appreciated some warning…”

“But you're so cute when you're embarrassed. Get your coat, I wanna take you out. Properly.”

“Like a date?”

“Like a date.”

[sceawere]

the garrison | arthur shelby/nurse!reader

@yjrevolution wanted arthur and his nurse and i wanted arthur to be goshdang happy so here is what i made

You double checked the letter one last time, comparing the scrawl on the page to the careful lettering on the side of the building. You knew it was the right place. You’d already checked and double checked, and triple checked. But just one last time.

Pushing through the doors you realised it was even warmer than it was outside, even with the fires pouring out onto the street. The close air of the pub met against your skin and made it prickle. It was louder in here too, another feat, given the banging and ringing from the furnaces. You made your way over to the bar, scowling at men as they knocked shoulders with you.

“Hey! ‘Scuse me?”

“I’ll be with you in a minute”

You sighed, leaning your forearms on the bar, clasping the letter between your hands. The atmosphere in here was making your head spin and you flicked your eyes around.

“Sorry, it’s busy tonight”

“I noticed. I’m looking for someone – Arthur Shelby? He mentioned this place and I-“

“What do you want with Arthur?”

You looked back over your shoulder to the man’s voice, eyebrow quirked at the interruption.

“What you doing listening to someone else’s conversation?”

“It’s a public place. One we own. So, answer the question”

“…Tommy…and John”

He looked up from his lighter as you pointed at the men in turn.

“You’re Tommy, right? His little brother?”

He pocketed the lighter again, using his now free hand to pull the cig from his mouth.

“Yeah, he said you were the narky one. Here”

You held out the letter and crossed your arms while you waited for him to scan it.

“You’re the nurse?”

“Aww, he talks about me. That’s sweet. Is he here?”

“No”

He held the letter back out and you waited for him to elaborate. When he didn’t you rolled your eyes, snapping it from his fingers.

“Well, thanks for being so helpful, Thomas”

“He’s at home”

He signalled a guy over through the crowd.

“See her to the house”

You fidgeted, swaying in place a little.

“Oh, well. Thanks for the help. Thomas”

He nodded and turned, letting John shut the door behind him.

-

You marched over to where on of the guys they’d brought in last night was tussling with the attendant. You’d heard the muffled shouts halfway down the corridor and steeled yourself for another fighter.

“Good morning, soldier”

He stilled immediately, turning to you, breathing heavy. You quirked an eyebrow at him, interlacing your hands behind you.

“Are you going to lie down of your own accord or do I need to ask Johnson to punch you spark out?”

The man let go of the attendant and you nodded for him to leave, moving around the bed.

“You’re disturbing the other patients. Lie back”

“Where the fuck am I?”

You didn’t reply, fluffing the pillows up behind him so that if he wouldn’t lie back down, at least he could sit without straining his stitches.

“I said-“

“Oh, I heard. You were quite audible” You tapped his forehead “Lie back before I punch you in the gut”

He looked you up and down, huffing, but responding.

“There, isn’t that better? Well, at least we know your ears still do work. That’s good. I wasn’t sure for a minute there”

He set his jaw, refusing to look at you. You smirked to yourself a little, perching on the edge of the bed.

“You’re at a hospital at a base on Lemnos”

“Fuck’s Lemnos?”

“Greece, Mr…”

You rose to check the hastily written tag attached to his bedframe. There were 20 new men in this hut alone and keeping track of who was who when they were in and out all the time was taking up too much of your time.

“Shelby”

You sat back, looking him over. He looked exhausted even though he’d been asleep for almost a day. He’d woken briefly in the night, muttering and sputtering, and you’d wiped his face with a cool cloth and shushed him back to sleep. He’d been delirious with the dehydration and the shock of the wound and proposed to you twice over that time, when he hadn’t been crying.

“I was at Gallipoli”

“Yes, you were shot. Not too badly, if they’d got you’re here soon enough you’d probably be back out by now but it took them so long to ship you out here I’m afraid you weren’t in the best shape. You’ll need a while to recuperate”

“They’re not gonna put me on a ship? I don’t wanna die on one of those fucking ships”

“You’re staying right here on the ground for now. We’re headed for Malta in a few days”

He looked away again, shaking his head and getting agitated.

“I’m not dying on one of them fucking ships”

“You won’t be on a floating hospital, it’s a transport.

This is the Australians’ base and while they’re being entirely lovely in hosting us, we really are supposed to take British lads back to Malta.

You’re stable, you just need to rest, and since your unit is being cycled out anyway, you’re coming with me Mr Shelby. No arguments. I’ll be by your side whenever you need me to be”

You watched as his eyes darted about. You could see he wasn’t dealing well. Not that many of the guys here were.

“Mr Shelby-”

“Arthur. Mr Shelby’s my dad. Though…he’s called Arthur too, so…”

You smiled at him, and he laughed a little at the way you raised your eyebrows, trying to hold in your laughter.

“Yeah…I’m an idiot”

“Oh no, I don’t believe that”

“No?”

“No”

“And why’s that?”

“An idiot would have carried on arguing with me. You listened, Mr Arthur Shelby but-not-that-one”

You stood, filling a glass with water and handing it to him.

“You listening makes me think you are in fact, pretty fucking smart”

You smirked as you walked away, going to check on another soldier.

Mr Arthur Shelby. Might need to remember that name.

-

You were glad to be out of the pub and walking back down the half-empty streets. The terraces lined your way like trenches but at least there was space and air out here. The guy Tommy had sent to escort you hadn’t spoken a word to you and you hadn’t tried to make him.

He stopped in front of a house, banging the door with his fist and you came to a stop next to him. When the door opened he threw a ���Tommy sent her’ and turned, walking back the way of the pub again. You watched him go with a scrunched brow, shaking your head when he disappeared out of sight.

“Who are you?”

You turned back to the young guy, so young he can’t have seen the war. Lucky.

“I’m here to see Arthur”

“Who are you?”

You rolled your eyes and gave him your name. He turned to shout back into the house.

“Oi, Arthur!”

“What?”

You smirked at the sound of his shout back.

“Woman here to see you!”

“What bloody woman? Oh, fucking hell, if it’s that-“

You leant forward into the doorway a little.

“It’s no-one you’ve knocked up, you daft twat! Now come get this lad to let me in the house already!”

It took a minute but his head popped round the doorway and you waved at him.

“Fucking hell. Oi, Finn, move!”

He nearly slapped the boy out of the way as he walked past, and you laughed as he pulled you into a hug.

“Oh, God, I forgot how tall you were when you’re not on your arse”

“Shurrup. Right, get in”

He kept his arm around your shoulders as he guided you in, kicking the door shut behind him. You ended up in a kitchen and a woman sat with a quirked eyebrow, sipping tea as you entered.

“Oh, hello. I’m so very sorry about shouting”

“Arthur…you going to introduce me to the lady?”

“Oh, right. Pol, you remember me telling you about that nurse?”

“Vaguely”

He introduced you properly and you corrected him when he gave your nickname rather than your proper one, intent on making a good impression. She seemed like she’d appreciate a little formality.

“Pleasure”

“Yes, from what I hear”

You laughed, turning back to where Arthur stood looking like a teenager bringing home his first date.

“What’ve you been telling her?”

“Nothing! Nothing! None of that”

You raised your eyebrows at him, smiling.

“Sit yourself down. Tea? God knows Arthur won’t offer it”

“I was just getting round to it, Pol”

You mouthed to him, ‘your aunt?’ and he nodded back.

“You the nurse who knocked him on his arse?”

“Uh, oh. Yes. That would be me”

She pushed the cup over to you and smiled.

“Welcome, sweetheart”

-

Polly had long since left you and Arthur had snuck out a bottle of something from the cupboard, spiking both your teas until you may as well have been drinking from the bottle from all that was left in it.

“And then the horse goes fucking legging it, jumps straight over the fence and out the field. Terry comes running out, pants barely over his arse and starts hopping after it, the mad fucker. Anyway, we ended up finding the pig out the back of the vicar’s place”

You took the bottle back off him while he was distracted laughing and took a swig.

“Here I was thinking you were going home to a quiet life”

“Oh, not me, Arthur. Never me”

“Yeah…know that feeling”

You slid the bottle back over to him and settled back in the chair. You’d been balancing your toes on the edge of his chair but now you flicked your shoes off and crossed your ankles on his lap. He brought his hand down to circle around your calf and you let your head drop back, wiggling until you were comfortable.

“How do you live so close to the furnaces?”

“Ah, you get used to them”

“No…it’s too hot. Too loud”

“Only house I’ve ever known”

“Some days when it’s this warm…I have to sit in a cold bath. Can’t get anything done”

You laughed without humour, eyes sliding out of focus as they traced the pattern of the wallpaper behind Arthur.

“I get prickles if it’s too warm. Do you remember my skin then?”

“You were so blotchy I thought you were one of the patients first time round”

“You were half unconscious at the time”

“Never too out of it for a pretty face”

You rolled your eyes but smiled all the same.

“When my skin starts prickling, I could be anywhere, but I’m back there. The fucking heat, I’d never felt anything like it”

He hummed, his hand still tracing pattern up and down your leg.

“It’s the smell of water for me. Sitting water”

You swallowed heavily, almost gagging as the smell hit you even here.

“God, I remember”

Arthur nodded, his head low, concentrating on his fingers work as he circled around. You sat in the stillness for a while. Both of you alone, but together. When you’d had enough of thinking you sat back up, bending at the waist to reach for his face.

“When did you grow this out?”

He let you pull your legs back down so you could move towards him, ending up crawling onto his lap. His hands ran over the plain of skin at the side of your thigh and he looked up where you sat above him.

“Soon as I got back”

“Hmm…I don’t know if I like it”

“Hey!”

“I’m just saying…I remember when you had a face under there is all”

“I still do”

You quirked your head, scratching at his cheek.

“You’re gonna feel different”

“What you on about?”

You reached down and tilted his chin up to better meet his lips.

-

“This is absolutely not allowed!”

“Calm down”

“No, I will not fucking calm down, Arthur! You’re going to get me shipped to God knows where!”

“Better give me a kiss before you go then”

“Oi!”

You play slapped the side of his head and he responded by lifting you up, sitting you on the half wall that enclosed the ‘hospital’ grounds. You shrieked at the movement and he threw his hand over your mouth, both of you laughing. Sneaking out at midnight to mess around with one of the soldiers under your care was not the smartest choice you’d ever made but then again you’d signed up to be a nurse in a war that you swore would never end. Might as well enjoy yourself.

“Arthur! You’ve probably tore your bloody-“

You pawed at the hem of his shirt, trying to get a look at the mending wound beneath it.

“Oh, eh up. She’s trying to get me naked already”

“Shut up!”

You laughed, running your fingers over his side.

“No…you managed to not greatly injure yourself. It’s a miracle”

He dropped his forehead against the side of your head and you turned to nuzzle at him. Your arms found their way around his neck and you dropped kisses to what skin you could find.

“If the matron catches us, she’ll have my guts for garters, I tell you. She was very explicit when we signed up that there was to be no fraternising with the patients”

“Then I won’t fraternise you”

You both breathed out a laugh and you turned to rest your chin on his shoulder, hugging him to you but watching out across the island.

“Thank God it’s cooler tonight, at least”

“You don’t like the heat, do you?”

“Can’t fucking stand it”

His head turned and he pressed a kiss to your jaw. You closed your eyes.

“What happens after this?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean…if this thing ever fucking ends…how am I meant to go home and carry on? How can I ever…”

“We just have to”

“Arthur”

“We just have to”

You sighed, leaning back but keeping your arms looped around his neck.

“How are you going to do that?”

He looked at you confused.

“What does Mr Arthur Shelby but-not-that-one want to do with his life?”

He considered for a moment, looking out at the water behind you.

“I want a pub”

You smiled.

“A pub?”

“Yeah. I want the Garrison”

You blinked at him.

“It’s a pub”

“I got that”

“You didn’t look like you did. You looked confused”

“I often look like that when you speak, Arthur”

“Oi!”

You laughed. The only time you seemed to laugh recently was with Arthur.

“What do you want? You still gonna be a nurse?”

“What else am I gonna do with myself? Go back to the farm and pretend it never happened?”

“Could do”

“Nah, don’t think so. I’ll go back but…”

You’d brought one hand down while speaking to pick at the ground down rocks that littered the wall, flicking them away and tracing shapes in the dust they left.

“You’ll marry some posh guy and sort yourself out, I know you will”

“Oh will I now?”

“Yeah, who’s that one you told me about? With the big house on the green?”

“Richard”

“Yeah, him”

“I hate Richard, he’s a twat”

He scoffed a laugh.

“He’s rich. He likes you. You could do worse”

“I could do a fucking sight better”

“He’ll look after you”

“I don’t want looking after”

“Too much excitement to be had?”

You looked up through your lashes at him, hand gripping the stone below you.

“Is that what you’re gonna do? You got some girl you never told me about waiting back home for you? You gonna marry her and buy a pub and go home to pies and a crop of kids? Be Mr Respectable who runs the local?”

“Not bloody likely”

You quirked your lips at him.

“Find me”

“What?”

“When all this is over. Give it a year, yeah? And if you’re not smitten with Mr Richard Posh Pants by then, you come find me”

“At The Garrison?”

“Yeah…at The Garrison”

-

He still slept unsettled, twitching and muttering to himself. You’d hoped being back home, the passage of time, might have soothed him slightly. His arm tensed under your head and you brought a hand up to grasp around it, soothing him with your touch.

“Arthur”

He hummed in his sleep, brow furrowed.

“Arthur!”

He woke with a start, heaving air in through his nose, jaw clenched. He stuttered about for a moment before he looked down to you. He sighed, dropped back to the pillow, and ran a hand to smooth back his hair.

“Sorry, love”

“It’s alright. Want to talk about it?”

“No. No.”

“Ok”

You readjusted your leg where it lay over his and looked over his face. He laughed to himself.

“What?”

“Never had you be so nice to me in a bed before”

You rolled your eyes and smiled, lifting yourself up on your arm.

“Not my job to keep you in line anymore. I’m not here in a professional capacity”

“And yet your bedside manner is better now?”

“Oi!”

He smiled, running a hand over his eyes. He dropped it to his chest, looking over at you.

“Come here. I haven’t held you in a year, what you doing all the way over there”

You shuffled over, laying on his chest and snuggling in under his chin.

“I missed you”

“I missed you, too”

“You’re not leaving are you?”

“No”

“Good. Because I need you by my side”

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