#ada shelby imagine

[wysteria-clad]

The uncrowned Princess.

paring: Shelby Siblings x sister! reader

warning: swearing, mention of blood, gun shots, violence.

summary: A glimpse of your life as the youngest Shelby sister. This takes place during earlier seasons.

a/n: before you read this one, i wanted to say if this fic sounded familiar to you, please don't report me for copying lol i posted this on my old account @pastelxskull before deactivated it.

note : This is more like a head canon / imagine thingy. p.s John never died.

i do not own any of the gifs, credits to the amazing owners/creators. if any of gif is yours, want me to take it down, please contact me.

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● You are the youngest Shelby, one year younger than Finn.

● Don’t even get me started on how protective your brothers are over you.

● Basically, your aunt Polly and your siblings raised you.

● Your aunt Polly was more like a mother to you and treated you like her daughter.

● Arthur is not exactly great with words but he would get you lot of dolls for you to play with and spoil you with chocolates. And he would beat up anyone to death if he finds out anyone dared to harm you.

● Tommy is the most protective of you. He would often hold you till you fall asleep in his arms. Mostly Arthur, but Tommy would too.

● John is the most fun brother to hang out with. He would play with you from throwing you up in the air and catching you to hide and seek, making you giggle.

●Ada is more like another mother figure to you due to age gap.

● You had no clue why your brothers are going when they were leaving for war, much to your dismay, you were only three years old.

● You cried first few days when you couldn’t see Arthur, Tommy and John and be with them.

● You would ask your aunt or Ada ‘Where are they?’ 'When are they coming back?’ every single day and getting a reply of 'soon, Y/n’

● They weren’t exactly the same after the war.

● You weren’t the same either. Not seeing or talking for five years will do that to you.

● At first, you were hesitant, you knew they were your brothers but they weren’t openly affectionate as before, and you spent few days clinging to Aunt Polly or clutching and standing behind behind Ada.

● But you knew their care and love for you did not change at all.

●Eventually, you got over your hesitation and fear and started to hang around your brothers more making them happy. You were the light of their life. A pure angel in their sinful lives.

● They tried to keep you away from 'Family Business’ as much as they can.

● You grew up to be a absolutely beautiful young lady, inheriting the Shelby genes.

● As you grew up, they became more protective of you, annoying you most of the times. You weren’t even allowed in the Garrison.

● When you accidentally let it slip about a boy you liked “Ah, young love” John teased you till you got red and blushy until Ada saved you from further embarrassment.

● But Tommy and Arthur did not take it well though, at all.

● Yelling at your brothers cause they always scare the guy away you have a date with.

● Secretly dating your boyfriend with your sister’s help. This is why she was your favourite sibling.

● But you got caught one time though. They were not exactly happy to find out. That's a story for another time.

● Having a closer bond with Finn as you two grew up together, some even mistaking you for twins.

Often eliciting the statement, 'Where the one goes, the other follows' from people around you.

Despite being just a year older than you, he was very protective of you.

● No one dared to mess with you, the uncrowned princess of Birmingham.

● Being a Shelby also meant you had a lot of enemies too.

● You got kidnapped that one time and the said kidnapper pointed a gun to your head not fully aware of the consequences.

“Let her go” Tommy clenched his jaw, trying hard to keep his calm.

John held back Arthur from trying to attack the kidnapper in fear of accidentally hurting you in the act.

Your enemy pulled the last straw, he slapped your face, making a terrible mistake.

Hell broke loose.

Your brothers showed no mercy at him or his men.

Your lips quivered, your eyes pooling with salty tears. You had knowledge about your family business and you knew what your brothers are capable of, but having a gun pointed to your head, witnessing the whole scene, the blood, gunshots, terrified you.

You sprinted towards whichever brother was near you, Tommy. And ran straight into his arms gripping his shirt handful with your shaking hands.

He quickly handed your quivering form to John, who shielded your view when Tommy shot the kidnapper before him and Arthur beat him to a bloody pulp. Though it didn't help you from shaking much, you appreciated John's gesture nonetheless.

Everyone calmed you down at home, or at least tried their best.

The very next day, Arthur and John began the training, teaching you how to shoot and gave you your own gun.

Polly wasn’t pleased with the idea of you shooting anyone. But she understood why.

● Michael treating you and caring for you like his sister.

● You were a Shelby. It meant more dangers and troubles, but as long as you have your family with you, that’s all it mattered and you would be fine.

[zablife]

Ada's Tour of the Library

Summary: Ada welcomes the new Mrs. Shelby with a tour of Tommy’s library and the antiques she’s collected for her brother. However, her interest isn’t purely social. 

Author’s Note: This was requested by @cillmequick and @look-at-the-soul. This is the last fic of my 2K celebration, An Evening at Arrow House. I'm sorry this has taken so long to write. I've tried many versions to make my original idea work, but I have a hard time picturing dark!Ada so I'm still unsure if it came out as I intended.

Warnings: dark fic 💀, weapons, mention of suicide 

You followed Ada into the library hesitantly. Her offer to discuss the antiques she'd purchased for Arrow House didn't exactly thrill you, but you thought it wise not to rebuff her efforts. Tommy was staring at you both with such hopeful expectation in his eyes, you hated to disappoint him. As you chatted with your new sister-in-law, you were careful to conceal the truth. You and Tommy had already discussed the removal of several items which you found slightly macabre.

"My sister means well," he assured you when you'd looked on in discomfort at the collection of enormous Japanese swords that hung in rows along the wall. Beneath it lay a chest with a small glass case meant for the display of medals or delicate heirlooms. The actual contents were a chilling array of small, twisted fragments of lead, all dug from Tommy’s flesh. They were displayed proudly in his office next to the cabinet where his guns were kept, a collection meant to inspire confidence. However, you found the notion foolhardy. After all, he was the one to remind his brothers they were generals not soldiers.

You tried your best to maintain a pleasant countenance, desperate to steer the conversation in a different direction and learn more about Tommy’s only sister. She was someone you deeply admired for her role in Shelby Company Limited. Independent and smart, she'd proven invaluable to Tommy on many occasions according to his stories. And, if truth be told, she was the one family member he trusted implicitly after his Aunt Polly’s death. Therefore it was important to you to make a good impression.

“Over here we have the latest acquisition, an Egyptian vase from the 18th dynasty," she announced. As you moved closer to the large piece of pottery, you noticed the intricate painting, a detail which had escaped your attention before. 

"It's lovely,” you commented. "Look at the little man, galloping round the center!" you noted with childlike glee.

Ada clasped her hands behind her back, mouth drawn in a tight line that reminded you of the strict headmistress at school many years ago who abhorred frivolity. Heels clicking against the polished floorboards, Ada circled the area where you stood, cocking her head to admire the piece thoughtfully before clearing her throat. Eyes flicking up to yours, she explained, “Scholars believe the black rider is meant to signify approaching death.”

You recoiled in horror as you stared at the vase, “What sort of gift is that?”

"It's a very valuable antique," Ada blinked in obvious confusion to your question. 

"But why would you imagine Tommy would want something so..." you faltered as you searched for the right word.

"Morbid?" she offered, allowing a chuckle to escape her ruby lips at your state of shock. She tilted her head, observing you for a moment before adding, "Tommy's obsessed with death. Didn't you know?”

She crossed to the other set of shelves, picking up a small frame and holding it out in calm reflection. You’d seen it before in Tommy’s office and marveled at the delicate pattern of the embroidery, if you could call it that. You’d never been able to find a thread quite so beautiful. An enchanting glossy chestnut had been used to make a wreath of intricate flowers. 

"I think it started with our mother. I was too young to remember her, of course, but Tommy…I think he still carries a part of her inside himself,” she confided. 

Holding out the frame to you for a better look she explained, “you know, he was the only one of the children to see her body after they pulled her from the cut.”

You shuddered at the thought of your husband as a boy, alone with his mother’s corpse. He must have been so lost and confused in that moment. Your thoughts wandered as you ruminated on the impact of such a horrible event. Had he known then about her tragic end or was he spared that burden until he was old enough to carry it?

Ada continued, not seeming to notice you pale with the shock. “He cut locks of her hair to keep with him. It was all he could salvage before her body was burned according to tradition,” she explained.

“That’s not…” you gulped, squinting to see for the first time that the artwork was indeed made of human hair. An icy shiver ran down your spine as Ada merely nodded. 

Replacing the frame upon the bookshelf, she then removed a small wooden box from a low cabinet. Her back to you, you watched her take a few deep breaths as you wondered how Tommy would feel about her divulging secrets from their childhood. It was a topic he rarely spoke about and urged you not to question. As a dutiful wife, you’d accepted those limits and felt uncomfortable pushing past them now. 

Fumbling with the cigarettes on the desk, you felt your unease growing as Ada began speaking again. “Uncle Charlie says she wanted to take us with her. Our gypsy half is stronger so who knows? Perhaps she will have her way,” she mused darkly. Looking over her shoulder at you, she stated, “John’s gone. Arthur’s close. Tommy’s tried twice that I’m aware of.” The hand holding your cigarette shook, ash falling onto your new gown at her matter of fact tone, as though your husband’s fear of family curses was the most natural thing imaginable.

You shook your head in a vain attempt to dislodge her words, but all you could hear was the ring of certainty in her voice, taunting you with your husband's inevitable early demise.

The images it conjured were awful. You’d arrived at Arrow House mere days before Tommy was found muddy and shaking as he mumbled about being unable to pass over to the other side. Neither of you liked to discuss it, though he’d told you many times over how your presence saved his life. You’d talked him through several difficult episodes since, bringing him back into the light when darkness threatened to overtake his mind and soul. You were hopeful that your love was enough to convince him to embrace life.

“Tommy doesn’t believe in that stuff anymore,” you said, stamping out your smoke with finality.

Crossing the room to place the box on the desk beside you, Ada huffed out a little laugh at your insistence. “What is my dear brother thinking? Wouldn’t we all like to know?” she asked pointedly as she glared at you through the veil of smoke that still swirled in the air.

“You might not think so, but I do know Tommy,” you stated firmly, staring into her mystic blue eyes that reminded you so much of your husband’s.

Without answering your retort, she carefully opened the case at her side and removed something heavy enough to require two hands. When she lifted it above the lid and displayed it in upheld palms, your jaw dropped at the sight of a large dagger. The handle was made of horn, decorated with gold and encrusted jewels. The sheath was covered in what appeared to be snake skin. 

Your eyes darted to hers, a moment’s hesitation before you asked, “What is that?”

As if in a trance, she merely stared at the dagger, unsheathing it slowly so the blade glinted in the firelight. “A wedding gift for my brother,” she stated in a low voice. She began to turn the handle in the cradle of her palm as she stared at the light reflecting back to her.

You felt your mouth go dry at her adept handling of the dangerous weapon, eyes wide as she turned the point of the blade toward you suddenly in silent threat.

“Ada, what are you doing?,” you asked in slow, measured breaths, afraid of any sudden movement which might cause her to rush at you.

"You don't understand a thing about this family," she said, a wild look in her eye. “And what’s more you don’t want to learn so someone has to teach you a lesson.”

"That's not true,” you assured her, taking a step backward, hand outstretched to protect yourself. “I love Tommy very much. I only want to make him happy," you cried, feeling a rush of heat against your backside as you drew closer to the fireplace. Your heel caught in the carpet as you moved, a nauseous anxiety overtaking you as you realized you were cornered.

"That's not possible," Ada replied. "You must know by now that the only thing he hates more than a coward is a liar," she spat.

Your heart beat wildly as you stood frozen with fear. “Ada, y-you w-wouldn’t,” you stuttered.

“Wouldn’t I though?” she answered, baring her teeth as she raised her arm over you.

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Tag List:

@evita-shelby

@shelbydelrey

@alanadetigy

@severewobblerlightdragon

@lovemissyhoneybee

@theshelbyslimited

@kittycatcait219

@notyour-valentine

@areyenotfondofmelobster

@polishcrazyone

@elenavampire21

@little-diable

@lyarr24

@jomarch-wannabe

@helen06dreamer

@raincoffeeandfandoms

@dearshelby

@cillmequick

@call-sign-shark

@peakyltd

@brummiereader

@runnning-outof-time

@emotionalcadaver

@thegreatdragonfruta

@noforkingclue

[kkurades]

˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆ FLUSHED CHEEKS ˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆

━━ ada’s brothers won’t believe her when she tells them that she’s dating a world famous fashion designer / model icon.

word count: 1328

pairing: fem!reader x ada shelby

warnings: none

The day you met Ada was the day that made the remainder of your life perfect.

You memorized clearly that you encountered her during one of your visits to London for a fashion exposition.

One of Ada's friends somehow managed to acquire two tickets for the exposition and invited Ada.

Within thirty minutes of arriving there, Ada had to go use the restroom.

When she entered the women's bathroom, she noticed you seated on the tile floor with a cigarette in your hand. Your head was leaned back against the wall, while your heels had been discarded beside you.

When you heard the door opening, you looked up to see Ada. At first, you assumed you were so high that you were dreaming of angels, but after having examined her clearly you realized that you weren't dreaming.

Ada had shifted uncomfortably as she was at the mercy of your cold stare, but momentarily realised that you were y/n y/n/n the world-known fashion designer and model.

When Ada ultimately came back to her senses, she was relatively surprised to see you there considering the fact that you were the main guest of the fashion exposition.

When she timidly questioned you about it, you just told her that you didn't particularly like these kinds of events and that you were inclined towards hiding in the restrooms if you had the chance.

Ada merely nodded, not knowing what to do as you resumed staring holes into her head before she took cover in a toilette stall.

After she had composed herself, she unlocked the door again to see that you still hadn't moved and walked over towards you.

She gestured for you to shift slightly to create a place for her to sit before sitting down beside you and turning to look at you.

“Are you alright, Miss. y/l/n?” She questioned you softly, as you studied her features quietly.

“Yes, of course I am Mrs.-?”

“Miss. Ada Shelby,” she finished for you with a sweet smile resulting in the corner of your lips turning upward.

“It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss. Ada Shelby,” you spoke while seizing her delicate hand in yours and pressing a soft kiss to it which made her blush.

The remainder of the evening was spent in the women's bathroom, with you divulging to her all about your life as a famous fashion designer and model while she told you narratives of her life in Birmingham.

Occasionally someone would come into the restroom, but they mainly disregarded the two of you, thinking of you as some drunk women who were up to no good.

When the evening was reaching its end, you recalled not wanting to part ways with Ada. Having spent these few hours with her made you happier than the previous months when you were constantly miserable.

So, you gave her your address and told her that she could visit you anytime she desired.

You knew it was foolish to give your address to a stranger, but you couldn't help yourself as you looked into her sparkling blue eyes that had now become your favorite color.

Currently, you were driving your car to Birmingham because Ada wished to introduce you to her family.

When Ada informed her siblings and aunt that she was dating a woman, they couldn't believe their ears.

Surprisingly, Tommy had been the first one to smile and congratulate her sincerely before threatening whoever dared to date his little sister.

The remainder of her family soon followed, and she found herself to be supported by her family members, which was a tremendous solace to her.

When John ultimately raised a question of who you were, she told them that she was dating y/n y/l/n the famous fashion designer and model.

Ada had felt extremely offended when Arthur and John burst out laughing while Polly was scolding them.

So, here she was dragging you from your manor all the way to Birmingham to prove that she was dating you. That you weren't some figment of her imagination. And of course to introduce you to her family.

“You alright?” You questioned her as you saw her fiddling with the necklace that you purchased for her on her birthday.

“What?” Ada twisted to look at you with a perplexed expression as you examined her features carefully.

“I asked whether you are alright,” you repeated before taking her hand in yours.

“Oh, yes. Just jitters I guess,” she replied with a kind smile on her face.

“If you say so,” you mumbled before leaning over to kiss, which made her giggle into the kiss.

The ride to Birmingham passed painfully slow, but around the evening you finally reached your girlfriend’s hometown.

You unlocked your car door before strolling around the car to open the passenger door, where Ada had been applying a fresh coat of red lipstick.

You put the keys to your car into your pocket before you pursued your girlfriend towards her aunt’s house, where her family had been waiting to meet you.

Ada knocked harshly on the door, resulting in you lingering for a few moments before it swung open to reveal a youthful boy who you believed to be Finn, Ada’s youngest brother.

Finn’s eyes broadened at the sight of you as he stood there staring at you with his mouth agape.

“Finn?” Ada’s voice seemingly revived Finn out of his daze, rendering him to straighten out before he offered you a nervous smile.

He entirely ignored his sister as he outstretched his hand for you to shake.

You complied but rather than shaking your hand, he kissed it softly, which made Ada roll her eyes at her brother.

“I’m Finn, you must be Miss. Y/l/n,” you nodded with an amused smile on your complexion, resulting in him blushing slightly.

“Oi, Finn! Are you gonna let the ladies in or not!” Arthur Shelby’s voice bellowed throughout the house, which made Finn widen the entrance before stepping out of the way to allow you two into the house.

Ada whacked the back of Finn’s head, which made him hiss at her before they lead you towards the living room where the remainder of Shelby’s were.

When you entered the room, you first noticed an older lady who you assumed to be Polly. The noblewoman had an exceptionally great taste in fashion if you had to be honest.

Polly made her way towards you before shaking your hand politely as she smiled at you.

“It’s nice to finally meet you, Y/n. Ada’s told me a lot about you,” she spoke, causing the others to come out of their previous astonishment that Ada was, in fact, dating you.

John and Arthur nearly dashed towards you before Arthur pushed John out of the way, much to your amusement.

“I’m Arthur Shelby,” he flirted while kissing your hand before John reappeared behind him and shoved him out of the way.

John let out a breath of air as he quickly restored his hair before also kissing your hand with a cheeky grin plastered on his face, which made Ada once again roll her eyes at her siblings.

“It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Miss. Y/l/n. I’m Ada’s older brother, John.”

Polly scoffed at her nephews before shoving both of them away from you because they were nearly all over you.

Eventually, the last man, who you identified as Tommy, in the room approached you with confident strikes. His icy blue eyes boreholes into your skull as he halted in front of you.

“Y/n,” he said briefly.

“Thomas,” you copied as he eyed your figure narrowly.

“I prefer Tommy, but it’s good to finally meet you,” he nodded curtly, provoking the corners of your lips to turn upwards slightly.

“Pleasures all mine,” you responded before turning back to Ada, who looked willing to slaughter all of her brothers.

©cupidsheqrt , 2022.

[look-at-the-soul]

All we’d ever need (Part 11)

Tommy Shelby x reader

Series master list

Sorry it took me a while, been a bit busy lately… ✨🥰

Let’s give @lyarr24 some ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for the fantastic idea we’re enjoying 🌻🤗

Tommy rolled over in bed, he was ready to wrap his arms around Y/N, even though when she had been repeating she felt so hot and would sleep in her underwear even with the current weather, it was necessary to light the fire, so his body heat was a big no for her. But the place next to his side was empty and she didn’t slap him in the arm in order to move him away this time.

His heartbeat rate was out of control, in seconds his body tensed and he soon realized of the noise somewhere in the house.

Taking his gun out from the drawer, Tommy hurried, there was silence upstairs, taking a look at the door it was locked, maybe they broke in through the back door of the kitchen, he moved past the drawing room and as soon as his eyes found the responsible for the noise, Tommy let a deep breath out and his arm with the gun dropped down.

Y/N was eating something, her back at him but he could see the fork she was holding in her hand while her hips wriggled from side to side.

“I thought the doctor ordered you rest.”

“Jesus Christ! You scared me.”

“My name is Tommy Shelby.” He grinned and held the chair open for her.

“The nightmares again?” She could tell Tommy was worried about something, but he wasn’t telling her the reason.

Sighing, Tommy took a couple of the cherries Y/N’s Mum brought them from the basket. “No, I turned around and you weren’t there.” Touching her skin, he looked so vulnerable.

Y/N moved his fringe away from his eyes with her fingertips. “What is it?”

“Nothing.” He lied.

He was worried for her and the baby. Tommy caressed her cheek with his knuckles, Y/N knew him so well immediately recognizing something wasn’t right, but before the silence could be filled with another round of questions he couldn’t answer at the moment, he decided to confess something else.

“This is the third time I dream with a girl.” Tommy confessed kissing the top of her head. “Couldn’t see her face though.”

“Again?” Y/N saw him nod. “Polly woke me up yesterday touching my boobs, my Mum wanted to know if it’s a boy or a girl, but I told her we don’t want to know.”

Tommy chuckled.

“Do you want to know?” Maybe he changed his mind.

“Oh, no I want it to be a surprise too.”

“Maybe you have a gift like Polly.”

Could it be? Through dreams? Perhaps it was just a coincidence.

“What are you doing up at this time?” He asked Y/N.

“Just wanted some pie, I couldn’t eat it earlier because I felt sick…” Y/N licked the cherries jam from her finger.

“At three in the morning?” Tommy placed the gun on the counter and started to make some tea. Turning around, he let his eyes lay on Y/N, her bump suddenly seemed bigger. After the incident at the clinic, the bump seemed to have popped up.

“Baby is hungry.” She grinned walking towards Tommy.

“Yeah?” Leaning in, he captured her lips, tasting the cherries in her mouth. “What about the baby’s mama?” Nibbling at her neck, Tommy took her hand in his and placed it over his pajama pants. “Daddy is hard.”

The thought of his child growing inside of her turned him on.

She purred and closed her eyes, he just unleashed something wild inside of her.

“Tommy…” He loved the way his name sounded in her lips. “We can’t… the doctor said…”

“I know.” He let out a deep breath, but continued to assault her neck. “I know… but there are other ways.” He proposed in a low voice that sent a shiver through her entire body.

“Oh.”

***

“I’m glad you’re staying over Y/N, otherwise we don’t see each other much.” Ada walked into the bedroom after the doctor came over for the routine check up.

Y/N smiled at Karl when he pulled up the covers and scared his Mum.

“I just wish this was under different circumstances.” Y/N admitted with a melancholic tone, she was holding the folded piece of paper that Tommy left that morning under her pillow before he left. He had a meeting with Campbell first thing in the morning in a church, Tommy disliked less being in a church than a meeting with Campbell, and that was saying a lot coming from him.

“Bet your Mum and Polly will come back with at least half of the things in the store.”

“Tommy already bought most of the things we’ll need.”

“He did that?” Ada tried to put on Karl’s shoes, but soon she gave up. “Well, I guess he just can’t control his excitement of being a father.”

Y/N thought of the scary times they had been through, using it to grow and learn from their mistakes, now they talked all the time and communicated effectively. They were practically at the best moment of their relationship.

“Tommy thinks it’s a girl, said he’s been dreaming of a girl with dark curls.”

Ada smiled widely. “He’s going to go crazy around if it happens to be true.” Placing her hand over Y/N’s bump, she added: “He always said he wanted to be a good father, not like our dad. That man would beat us badly when Finn cried, you know?… Once Tommy and I were carrying a bucket of beer for him and I stumbled and half of the alcohol fell to the ground, when we arrived home, dad hit Tommy with the belt and when it was my turn, he took the beating for me.”

Y/N’s heart broke by the story Ada just told her. It made her feel melancholic to know a sad memory of the man she loved.

“Am sorry… I’m supposed to share the embarrassing moments not the family shit we’ve been through.”

Y/N shook her head. “It’s alright, that’s part of his life too.” Tommy had told her he would never hit or raise his voice at their children, he was serious when he said he would be the best parent he could.

Ada sighed loudly, they lived things a child shouldn’t live. She started to move to get Karl something to eat.

“Before you go, I have something for you, look in the first drawer of the wardrobe please.”

“Ah, Y/N you don’t need to get me anything.”

“You’ve been helping me a lot Ada, and I’m sorry for all the trouble.”

Ada gave her the same look Tommy did, the looked so much alike. “Y/N you are family, there’s nothing to thank me for.” She found a small box.

“Nevertheless, this is the only way I can payback.”

“It’s beautiful, thank you.” Ada took the solitaire ring from the box, it was a gorgeous sapphire. Her sister in law walked towards the bed again to give her a hug.

Ada knew Y/N gave away jewels as if it was a handmade scarf, she had a generous heart.

Since James was visiting a friend to have a writing session, Y/N was a good company to her. And Tommy had been mad worried about her, so keeping her in Primrose Hill, away from Campbell was the best for now.

“Can you watch Karl for two minutes? I’m going to make a call.”

“Go ahead, Ada.”

As she was alone in the room with Karl playing with the wooden cubes, Y/N took the piece of paper and read Tommy’s words again:

She is a wild child with a gypsy soul that dances with the stars. She has a free spirit, a reckless mind and a rebel heart that isn’t meant to be tamed. Love her wild and you will never lose her. Ps. If it’s a boy I will write something else. Love, Tommy.

Her eyes filled with tears, she was touched by his gestures, constantly caressing her bump, telling her she looked beautiful, thanking her for carrying his child, the way he was with her was completely different to the Thomas Shelby the rest of the world knew. The contrast between the way he was with her and the other people, even his own family was evident. He was always making her feel secure and loved, she trusted him with her heart and soul.

Now, she was fully convinced he would be the best father for their child.

“Ada said Karl was here.” Polly walked in after a small knock on the door, taking the kid in her arms.

“Have you seen my Mum, godmother?”

“She’s packing…your dad made a mistake with a customer’s order and she is scared he will get wrong something else.”

“She usually leaves the gemstones organized just as my sketches so he will just place them.”

“You know how men are.” She saw her godmother roll her eyes.

***

He had three weeks to kill Henry Wilson, but deep down he knew Campbell was taking that moment to make sure he died as well, he was just using the Crown’s orders as an excuse. Or at least he would get hanged for the charges, he had talked to Arthur and John about it, both brothers agreed that he couldn’t do it directly, if something went wrong, he wouldn’t be able to do anything else from prison. Arthur said he didn’t want John to get involved in that, so he offered to pull the trigger. But he would die anyways if he didn’t follow the orders of The Crown and the pro-treaty paddies, either way, he was in the fucking middle of a crossfire… if only his plan worked the way it had been playing in his mind, he could succeed on the assassination of the MP. His plans always seemed to work in the end, but still, now he was just worried about Y/N and his baby, what would they do if something happened to him? What about Polly and his brothers? Ada? And the rest of the family? He had a long list of people to protect, to look after.

And now, on top of everything else, he had a child to think of, he would be responsible for someone that was literally a part of him. What he had wanted for so long.

He needed to talk to Polly to make sure all his money, properties and assets such as horses, cars, factories, would belong to Y/N and their child. The third part of the Shelby Company Limited as well. The worry was getting the best of him at the moment. He still had so many things to do.

His mind was busy during the drive from the church to the betting shop with the different options he had, he needed to distract Campbell from the races, get the Lee’s in position, Sabini wouldn’t even know where to look at… he still needed to decide what to do about Campbell.

Tommy took the papers and signed them right there over Lizzie’s desk. If he didn’t, Polly would remind him for the rest of the fucking day.

“Are you going to send the books to Y/N?” Lizzie asked him taking the papers.

“No, she’s been having a couple of rough days, I’ll check them later.” He was passing the envelopes from the mail until his eyes stopped at the calligraphy he knew so well. Tommy took the letter opener from the desk.

“Mr. Shelby, you have a meeting wit-”

“Cancel it.” And with that he marched to his office.

Taking off his coat, he left it over a chair and walked straight to his bar to take a glass and a bottle of whiskey.

After the war he thought he was empty, then Grace came in and momentarily made him believe a man like him could find love, he knew she wasn’t made for this kind of life, he doubted the authenticity of her feelings and he still blamed himself for allowing her to hurt him the way she did. But in the end, he was glad it happened, because thanks to that, he was able to later find something genuine and healing in Y/N.

Should he burn it like the previous ones? Give it to Y/N and let her decide what was best? Why was Grace still writing to him if she was married and happy as she mentioned at the last letter he read from her, he never wrote back though, it was some weeks before he met Y/N. After they got together he stopped opening them. There was no need to go back to what had hurt him in the past.

That’s where Grace belonged.

His mind racing, thinking of his next moves.

Pouring the amber liquid, he downed it in seconds, pouring a second one, then after lighting his cigarette, he took a seat. Taking a moment to take a deep breath to clear his mind, he could feel a lot of things right there… already imagining different scenarios developing, then he allowed himself to take the envelope in his hand to open the letter inside.

Dear Tommy,

I hope this letter finds you well. I wonder why you’re not answering my letters, I’ve already explained the only way to save you was by talking to Inspector Campbell, I hope you can forgive me one day for that. My nights are not the same without you, I’ve never stopped thinking of you. New York is incredible, there are some fantastic buildings, you would like that. But I’m writing because I’ve just arrived, there are a lot of things happening but I can’t tell you over a letter, can we meet in person? There are so many things left unsaid between us, what we had… can’t be forgotten overnight. Allow me to make it up to you. I’m staying at the Ritz Hotel, in London, Piccadilly. Suite 5.

The enemy you loved once, Yours, Grace.

Tommy left the paper on his desk and took the phone between his fingers, when the woman on the commuter answered and asked where did he want to call, he answered:

“Ritz Hotel.”

***

Next part

*Poem by Madiha Batool

There’s still more to come!

Tag list: (can’t tag a couple of profiles)

@lyarr24 @stevie75 @lovemissyhoneybee @zablife @runnning-outof-time @gretelshelby @crowssixof @datewithgianni @cloudofdisney @peaky-cillian @l1-l4 @kissmyquill @onlydeadcells @xoxoloverb @gypsy-girl-08 @julkaamazing @nesstelford2019 @midnightmagpiemama @skydeinert @audelia01 @that-girl-named-alex @milsies @millies0bsimp @animelover2161 @holacia2 @squishyturtle @babaohhhriley @empressnatsume @kittycatcait219 @aafiyas @httyd-marauders @evita-shelby @muhahaha303 @fixtionlover @planetgalaxystars @lauren-raines-x @lilyevanswhore @cersei-phoenix-thorn @easilyobessedbutflighty @lespendy @watercolorskyy @iwanttohitmyself @esposadomd @queenofbeingdepressed @violet-19999 @shae2001bts

[romeulusroy]

Imagine being a lawyer who dates Ada:

"We don't help coppers."

"Good thing they're a lawyer, John." Ada huffed, moving past him quickly. You grabbed her delicate hand, leading her away from the house. You could feel John's eyes burning into the back of your head. All of her brothers, actually, lurking somewhere inside, wanting to intimate you. She looked beautiful as always. You counted your lucky stars that a woman like Ada was with you. She was smart and funny and beautiful. She didn't put up with any bullshit and made sure that the whole world knew that. You weren't intimidated by them, the scariest guys in Birmingham, you were intimidated by her. She made your knees weak and palms sweat. You couldn't think straight around her. She didn't mind that you were a lawyer. You didn't mind what her family did for work. She didn't have to remind you that she wasn't one of them, that they didn't want her guidance. She was perfectly happy with it being the two of you against the world and you were more than happy to follow along. As long as you were with her, that's all that mattered.

"What's the difference?"

[hiatuswhore]

The Donovan Litter — p. blinders

previous — masterlist — next

You lacked memories of your mother. Out of her six children, you could recall the very least of her. William, your oldest brother loved to talk about the way she sung as she would make breakfast. Louis could recall how she would sit at each of their bedsides and tell stories before bed. Samuel connected to her through their love for music while Francis missed how she could make any situation positive. Last of your brothers being Theodore. He rarely ever spoke and when he did it was with William in confidence.

The entirety of your life existed in your four bedroom home with in Small Heath. Your brothers shared rooms while you had an entire room to yourself. William, Louis, and Samuel shared the big room leaving Francis and Theodore to the other medium sized room. The fourth room, your mothers room remained untouched. You had never seen the inside of it as the room door was locked at all times. Only once had you almost seen inside of it. You had been home alone on one of the rare occasions that your father decided to make an appearance.

When you opened the door he staggered through, the stench of cheap whiskey and stale cigarettes followed him. He took what he wanted from his family and gave nothing in return. This is all you knew of him your entire life but ironically there was a time when he was a good father. In that time you did not exist, your birthday marking the date of when he became a deadbeat. William telling you how your father spent hours in failed attempts to put your crib together meant nothing. Not just William, Francis could vividly remember the walks to the canal with their father. While Samuel remembered the entire families excitement for your arrival. You shrugged all of this information off as those realities were not your own. Your reality would always have you exist as a poor orphan in Small Heath.

Even now in adulthood your entire family still operated like poor orphans working together to scrape by. When the war rolled around William was the only one drafted, Theodore enlisted leaving Samuel, Francis, and Louis to look after you. By the end of the war William and Theodore returned. Beyond some nightmares William kept his struggles to himself. Theodore on the other hand somehow grew colder than before. You would be lying if you said you knew anything about Theodore or what he did daily. By the end of the month he always brought in his share of the money for the family expenses.

Rain fell hard outside forcing people into the shelter of their homes. You sat at the dinner table with the fund book in hand. Your contribution to the family being the only person in the house good with numbers. Any and all expenses went through you, even the vague ones that Theodore would explain little to nothing on. For a rainy day your household was busier than most. Sometimes you could hear the whispers of others, those damn Donovan kids.

Broken from your thoughts Samuel rushes into the house, his clothes barely on him as water soaks through. He quick locks the door, ignoring your complaints of him soaking the floor.

“Will!” He yells as he runs up the stairs, slamming his bedroom door behind him. After a few seconds he comes down in dry clothes, now damp from his skin. In his hand the key to the gun closet. “What���d you do?”

“Remember Mrs. Baker? Lives by the Shelby’s. Would give us treats when we would lingered near her garden,” Samuel rambles quickly as he unlocks the closest and removes a pistol. He checks the amount of bullets before shoving it into the waistline of his pants.

“Not again. Sam we talked about this,” You whine, Mrs. Baker’s husband was not only a cop but white. Known for his tirades about about the Jews, Gypsies, and Blacks.

“I know, I know, bad idea, eh?” Samuel questions as William walks down the stairs groaning about the noise. At first glance his shoulders fall as he sighs and breaths out Mrs. Baker’s name.

“You are trying to get yourself killed aren’t you? Stop sleeping with that mans wife!” William pinches the bridge of his nose as you cross your arms and the room fills with the rain thundering against the roof. “Did he catch you?”

“Yeah,” Your brother nervously bounces on the balls of his feet under your own and William’s gaze. William calls him an idiot as you point out that poor weather will not stop Pete Baker from reigning hell upon them. Almost as if on cue banging onto the door reach their ears.

“Come on in case he comes through. I’m going to hide him (Y/n) you know the drill. Count to thirty then answer the door,” William and Samuel walk to the cellular doors, you lock it behind them before starting your count. Pete’s banging does not desist as he spews out all kinds of vile names. At the count of thirty you open the door to be met with the tall burly man. His face redder than you have ever seen anyone’s face and you note the gun on his hip.

“Hello Officer Baker. Is there something I can help you with?” You smile, feigning cluelessness as he stands in the open showers. His glare does not falter as he looks past you, his eyes scan your living room.

“Where is he?” His orotund voice pairs well with the ominous glow of the nights rain. You tilt your head still smiling as your eyebrows pull together. A door upstairs opens but no footsteps follow. You pay little attention to this.

“I’m sorry?” Despite the welcoming tone and at ease expression your hearts racing. You take deep breaths to keep your hands from shaking as you clasp them in front of you.

“I have no care for these silly games. Listen here bitch, fetch me Samuel fucking Donovan!” He speaks with a raspy low tone, his voice level as it slowly climbs to a raucous growl while his hand bangs against the side of the door frame. You stand without a single idea of what to say. A frown on your features as you eye his pistol.

“Pete Baker,” Both your own and Pete’s heads whip toward the stairs. Theodore’s modulated tone seemingly silences you both as he sits on the steps with a cigarette. He narrows his eyes at nothing in particular and you find it rather strange to see him without his cap. “Officer Baker. First and foremost get your house in order. Me brother only sleeps with willing woman. Second apologize to my sister, she is a woman treat her with some respect. Lastly threaten my home again and there will be an issue. Do we have an understanding? I don’t take well to threats.”

Pete’s jaw clenches but you watch as his rage does not dissipate but redirect. His apology hollow as he glares at you, but even then you accept it. Theodore tells you to go to your room and you do so without protest. Before your bedroom door closes you hear Baker’s wobbly voice.

“—Shelby know of this?” You wonder what the Shelby’s have to do with anything. Another family of orphans nearby, one would have thought your family and theirs would be friends. Somehow the only interaction you ever truly had was between you, Ada Shelby, and Freddie Thorne. You caught them by the bridge but assured them you would not tell a soul. Besides that Theodore was good friends with John Shelby.

“Francis what the hell?” You whine as your brother cuddles your pillow and blanket. He whines your beds softer as you yell at him for not bathing before he climbed into your bed. Black soot litters small patches of his skin. You grab your extra blanket and pillow from your closet before you exit your room. Theodore unlocks the cellular door as you set up back on the couch. Louis walks down the stairs yawning as he managed to sleep through the entire ordeal. Samuel and William walk back up from the cellar.

“Mrs. Baker again?” Louis laughs as Theodore murmurs it’s not funny and that it needs to stop. Samuel keeps his head hung low while you observe your brothers. Louis and Francis find Samuel’s impulsiveness amusing while Theodore detests it and William grows more frustrated. They all lack was your worry of it, you are certain Samuel meant no harm.

“I don’t go looking for this trouble. She found me,” Samuel said. It’s not long before the tension eases. William, Samuel, and Louis share a smoke. As you voice disgust against it they chat about Mrs. Baker’s sex life. Theodore stands with his own smoke listening closely.

“What are we eating for dinner?” Louis’s question brings a silence over the room as the attention shifts onto you. You frown as Louis was already looking at you and the others slowly join him.

“Aren’t you all just the progressive lot! At one point today did any of you consider what your family may eat for dinner?” The sound of Francis’s slow movements down the stairs fills the silence. He rubs at his eyes as a yawn escapes him, “(Y/n) what’d you make for dinner?”

“Pasta and garlic bread,” You whine sulking into the kitchen as your brothers happily follow you. Dinner carries on like most dinners; everyone talking at once without one discernible conversation.

The next day you stroll around the market with your head in the clouds. For the past ten minutes you stare between two mushrooms, the vendor provides little assistance beyond gushing about their product. Your knowledge on cooking focally being from trial and error, most of your meals were experimental and still your brother were eager for them.

“Let me see that,” You flinch from your thoughts as Polly Gray pulls the mushroom from your right hand and brings it to her nose. Her eyes narrow before doing the same with the mushroom in your left hand. “Get the left one it’s fresh. You can spot a foul mushroom because it’ll have a fish smell to it.”

“Thank you Ms. Gray. I am (Y—“ You stumble over your words as her dark eyes bore into your own. The mushrooms provide you an opportunity to avoid her gaze but as you finish she has already said your full name.

“How can anyone not know of the only girl in the Donovan litter,” Her smile brings you ease as you fiddle with your fingers.

“Be careful legend has it we’re an invasive species,” You say earning a laugh from Polly, the two of you stroll around the market. She speaks to you about her family as if you are Shelby yourself. She rambles about her impulsive nephews and wild card Ada.

“Don’t even get me started with that brother of yours Theo. Some days I forget he is a Donovan and not a Shelby!” She laughs happily as you purchase the final item on your list.

“Theodore is so secretive so he probably is a Shelby,” You smile as she shrugs telling you Shelby’s and Donovan’s are cut from the same cloth.

“Be a dear and help me with these groceries. It’s on your way home is it not?” Polly asks wearing a warm smile to which you return the sentiment. While she does not say a word her eyes glimmer with joy. Polly’s certain you are the perfect girl for her darling Michael.

“Of course Ms. Gray,” You say joining her down the dirt road.

“Just Polly dear,” She says and the two of you fall into comfortable conversation. You listen closely as she speaks of your casually. Much like your brothers do, Polly paints the picture of a cheerful woman. One more than happy to be a mother.

Inside the Shelby residence you get two steps in before a Finn and Arthur Shelby race by.

“Sorry!” The boy yells before disappearing into the next room. Polly yells for Finn to stop running.

“Sorry Aunt Pol,” Arthur grumbles as he enters the room. He looks at you with narrowed eyes before they soon soften with familiarity.

“Theo’s little sister right?” He says, nodding your head you offer your name to which he smiles large. “Arthur Shelby. Hate to break it to you sweet heart. You share a face with a fucking wanker.”

“Many say we look like our Mum,” You chuckle at Arthur and he offers a kind smile to you before excusing himself. Ada comes into the kitchen for a few seconds. Her eyes watch you cautiously before easing as Polly praises your help with the groceries. You shrug it off as nothing before the front door opens.

“Polly I need to speak—we have a guest?” Thomas enters with an urgency that fades at the sight of you. It’s obvious he tries to place a name to your face but before he can John and Theodore enter behind him. Theodore’s laughing—an rarity you cannot say you are accustomed to witnessing. Almost as if you look at a completely different person. In seconds it flushes away at the sight of you.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Theodore questions and you lift up your own groceries explaining your journey from the market. He excuses you both before ushering you out of the front door, taking your groceries from your hand.

“What’s got you in such a foul mood?” You question, groaning as you tread through the muddy ground from the nights heavy rain. Theodore ignores you, the same dejected stare he seemingly only ever offers you. Rolling your eyes continuing to trudge through the mud. “The Shelby’s seem very kind.”

“Under no circumstances do I want you hanging around any of the Shelby’s. Do you hear me?” You flinch back as he stop abruptly swinging his right foot over to turn and stop you in your tracks. He holds his finger out toward you with a sharp look in his eyes. You want to tell him to piss off, call him an ass and continue home. Instead you nod your head knowing the illusion of control brings more answers than active resistance.

Information does not come early. You have no run ins with a single Shelby for weeks. Life goes on as usual, Samuel starting fires and the rest of you putting them out. Theodore being detached as always but unsuspecting. You note how often he leaves at odd hours and returns home quietly, too quiet.

Francis joins you on your walk down to the market. The sun shines unusually bright and Francis complains of Theodore waking him up early.

“Really? I thought I heard something this morning. Where does he even go?” You shrug your shoulders feigning disinterest as Francis rolls his eyes.

“Don’t make the mistake of asking. I did once and he threatened to break my arm. Cocky little shit. My little brother thinks he’s snapping my arm,” Francis scoffs as you nod your head absentmindedly. Theodore can without a doubt snap Francis’s arm, as he feigns disbelief you say nothing. The conversation telling you nothing about Theodores secret life he rather aggressively hides from you all. In the market Francis touches things as you swat your hand back toward him and focus on your list. “I’ll be two seconds. Yell for me if you need me.”

“Yeah sure,” You mutter not looking back as your eyes scan the vendor stands. Stopping by the horses you smile at Mr. Strong who brushes the fur of a beautiful black horse. “Hello, Mr. Strong!”

“You never quit with the formalities do you (Y/n)?” Mr. Strong asks as you join him next to the horse. You shake your head while gently rubbing at the back of the horses neck. “In the market for a horse?”

“I wish. What’s his name?” You ask, smiling as he nudges you with his nose, giggling you keep your eyes on him as Mr. Strong reveals his name to be Midnight.

“I think Midnight likes you. He doesn’t like anyone,” Mr. Strong explains, he watches how Midnight eases into your touch. You almost forget you stand in the middle of a fairly busy market.

“Wasn’t aware you got a new stable hand Charlie,” Your head whips to find Thomas’s eyes boring into your own.

“Oh no I’m not just saying hi is all,” You manage out turning back to Midnight as you clear your throat hoping one of them will steer the attention away from you.

“That’s a shame. You’re good with him,” He says, lighting a smoke before turning away. Mr. Strong raises an eyebrow as he watches Thomas walk away before turning his attention back to you.

“How come midnight has no owner?” You ask, readjusting your bag on your shoulder and Mr. Strong chuckles.

“Make no mistake he has an owner,” He says and you frown but his amusement soon makes sense as the name leaves his lips, Thomas Shelby.

[calummss]

kind of want to write a sapphic ada imagine

[notyour-valentine]

In your celebration you said you wrote for all characters but I am not sure if you are comfortable with this (if not I am sorry and please ignore) but could you do being the female lover of Lizzie or Ada?

Being Ada's lesbian lover ~ Headcanon

[Celebration] [Celebration Masterlist] [Masterlist]

Notes: Thank you for requesting this - I will be posting Lizzie in two days! Enjoy

Warning: Sexual content (18/21+). I do not consent to my work being translated, copied or posted elsewhere on this platform or any other.

Okay, so I think Ada is bi (remember how she was around Jessie Eden?)

You meet her when she is living in London (mid S2 I suppose) through your friend James. You’ve been each others lavender relationship for big family events for years now and are quite good friends so you see her in passing a few times, but you’re not too sure what to make of her. 

James mentioned a dead husband, and her politics, and the fact that she has a son, but that’s all you know. 

Once you’re supposed to meet him but he leaves you hanging and you find yourself bored senseless in her freshly painted sitting room, staring at the bookshelves when she walked in

After some initial questioning, she did remember you and offered you a drink. You chat about this and that before long and you get the feeling that Mrs Ada Thorne might be a bit lonely. That is, before she steers the direction into politics. 

Granted, you weren’t that much interested in them, after all, why bother? But instead of dismissing your perhaps unformed opinions and lecturing, she takes the time to explain things, concepts and ideals even if her own excitement shines through. 

Her eyes light up when you ask follow-up questions, proving that you aren’t just pretending to listen and letting her ramble on. But in truth you are captivated by her knowledge and enchanted by her excitement and passion. Most people in your circle took a page out of the Oscar Wilde book of acting above everything. So the conversation moves on from Marx, Engels and Weber to ideals and concepts like freedom and women’s rights and after a few more drinks you both are painting your ideal world into space, while laying on her expensive carpets

Later on, you can’t remember if you kissed her or if she kissed you. Anyway, it happened and you quickly pull back not knowing if you may have overstepped and feeling a little embarrassed. But Ada only giggled and pulled you back in

That’s the way it is that first time, with a lot of laughter and giggles - but oh is it fun

From that point on you come back frequently, for James of course, maybe even if you know for a fact that James is out of town. 

And for a long time it was just fun, fun being around her, fun talking, fun kissing, fun sleeping together. It was fun to eat and pudding at midnight, to drink champagne in bathtubs and to sit on the roof and watch the stars

Needless to say, you are there quite often so before long you run into Ada’s brother. To say it was awkward, was an understatement as you thought he was there for James and when he demanded why, you stated maybe a little too confidently that “Well you’re not here for Ada that’s for sure - besides, you’re exactly James type. Bit older, bit more serious.”

He looked as if he was stuck between exploding and imploding. 

“I am here for Ada!”, he snarled

When you found out he was her brother, you wished the ground would open up and swallow you whole. 

You didn’t decide to become serious, at least not intentionally.You stay over more and more, help out, take care of Karl and then you’re just there permanently, with no intention of leaving, nor Ada wanting to see you leave

It’s not that uncommon - companions they call it. And you don’t mind that label because you are companions, but also lovers. Her aunt knows, and her brother (you know, the one you thought was with James) but the other members of the family seem oblivious, even if you quickly become a part of their lives too, attending her brother’s wedding, moving in with him to take care of Karl and Charlie while Ada took care of her widowed brother and later moving to Boston with her. 

America is a bit more freedom (and a lot more money) and you liked it there, but when the time came, you moved back together. 

Being in a relationship with a Shelby meaned any luxury money could buy, clothes, expensive Champagne, holidays, which you don’t only spend at the cote d'azur but also visiting sights all over the world. Before long you were just as cultured and as educated as Ada. 

In the late 1920s you decide you want to adopt a little girl from one of the many orphanages the Shelby Family supports but in the end you find a three year old and her five year old brother and add them to your family.

You and Ada are both switches. For her, sex is not just a way to have fun and share affection but also a way to relax, unwind and an emotional outlet (runs in the family, apparently). 

She is very giving, but at times also quite demanding and not that easily satisfied. But you figure it out her sweet spots before long. 

She loves neck kisses and likes to run her hands through your hair - also red lipstick and red nail polish! More often than not, your kisses taste of Champagne, and Ada’s of whisky. The icecubes that come with the champagne are also a lot of fun if one knows how to use them. And feathers. And candles. 

She loves you to wear red lipstick and anything to make that lipstick stand out, think a lot of black and white from top to bottom. She also really likes red heels, for the both of you. Ada is a masterplanner and so you will always coordinate your outfits when out and about, and matching jewellery, including a personalised diamond ring you both have. 

Thank you for requesting and participating in my celebration - I hope you liked what I wrote.

Thank you everyone for reading and as always, I hope you enjoyed and would love to hear your thoughts!

Taglist

Overall

@lilyrachelcassidy @jyessaminereads @chlorrox @watercolorskyy @books-livre @quarterpastmidnight  @lilyevanswhore  @polishcrazyone  @zablife  @just-a-harmless-patato  @stevie75 @flyingjosephine-blog @runnning-outof-time @babayaga67 @butterfly-skinnylegend

[michaelgraysmustache]

Drabble: Jack Nelson sets you up with Ada Thorne.

Dynamics: wlw!Ada Thorne x wlw!Reader, Jack Nelson & Reader Friendship

Summary: You are a close friend of Jack Nelson. When he admits that he has feelings for you, you come out him you come out to him as queer/pan/bi with a preference for women. He introduces you to his friend Ada Thorne who he thinks you’d get along with. 

Author’s Note: I might turn this into a full fic with a wlw!Ada x wlw!reader, or a poly Ada x Reader x Jack

You and your family attend the same church as him and his parents. You started getting breakfast with him after the Sunday morning church service. You talk about your family, politics, books, current events. 

He is impressed by your work ethic and how you and your immigrant parents have carved out life for yourselves just like he has. 

You meet with him regularly, it is clear that he is interested in you. You have some feelings him, but you aren’t exactly sure what they are yet. You also confess to him that while you like men and were attracted to them, you tended to have stronger feelings for women. 

He says “Okay, Doll. If you ever want to explore those feelings with me, just tell me and it’ll happen.”

He thinks that you’d like Ada either as a romantic prospect or a friend so he introduces you two at a party. Immediately you two hit it off, taking and dancing together the entire night. 

Everything is going really well until two guys won’t leave you alone. You give Ada a look, she nods in agreement. You punch one of the guys in the face and she kicks the other one in the balls. 

Jack was paying attention but when he hears one of the guys yell, “you fucking bitches----” he runs over before the guy can even finish his threat. The two men are kicked out and Jack spends the better part of the next thirty minutes apologizing to you two. 

You and Ada appreciated the gesture an apology but let him know that even if he wasn’t there they would have handled the situation. The two guys would be dead on the floor, but the situation would be handled. 

He laughs and remarks that as long as you two have each other, you won’t need a man. 

“Ada, this one over here,” he says about you, “she likes men but prefers the romantic and sexual company of women. What do you think of that?”

You nervously wait for Ada’s reaction and plan to kick Jack in the shin when he stands up. 

Ada takes a sip of her whiskey and says, “I’m mostly been with men. I had a husband but he died a while back. I’m no opposed to being with a woman.”

You sit there awkwardly, not making eye contact with either of them, sipping your drink. Jack rolls his eyes and says, “Ada, I’m sure she’d love it if you two could go out on a date or see each other sometime this week.”

“yes,” you say, “but only if you want to. You don’t have to do it just because Jack says so.” Ada laughs and says not be ridiculous, she’d love to see you again. 

You and Ada start seeing each other every week. You got to parties, museums, rallies, and have nights in. You even meet Karl a few times. 

You still see Jack every week and he’s always asking you how things are going with you two. He always happy to hear that you two are doing well. He knew you’d make a great pair. 

[darkdevasofdestruction]

Angel of Birmingham ~ Alfie Solomons x Reader

Summary: Before he meets Tommy Shelby, Alfie gets the pleasant surprise of encountering the lovely Angel of Britain, and from then on, he swears to always protect her from all the dangers of the world.

If she were to ask herself who was the first to call her that - That undeserving nickname - She’d have to guess it might have been Arthur. He always had a way with words without realizing, and it all happened when they were children... More or less, considering she is closer to John’s age than his, and she would patch him up after fights and whatever marks of ‘good behaviour’ he got from playing around.

Seeing how great she was at taking care of him and his brothers, Aunt Polly suggested she tries to become a nurse or something. She saw potential in the little girl. Intelligent, charming, beautiful and pretty damn innocent. She shouldn’t stay too close to their dark side, it may taint her, and neither of the Shelbies wanted to see her upset. She was too much of a ray of sunshine and they desperately clinged to her and her kindness.

In the bleak midwinter.

But the girl was also highly ambitious and she didn’t want to settle with being a simple nurse - No, she wanted more. More and more and more. She was smart, she was greedy and she was a conqueror.

Veni. Vidi. Vici.

Until they received a beating sister with death and they suddenly opened their eyes towards the Godly truth in front of them.

She was going to become the only surgeon in Birmingham and she will succeed without a doubt, despite her young age.

The Shelbies already had connections with some important people so it was easier to deal with uncooperative people who dismissed her for being a woman and didn’t even look at her amazing knowledge and skills.

For a while, she had to be away and work in the London’s hospital as she studied medicine, despite her very young age. She hated being alone from her family and her second family, as she always called the Shelbies, but despite her timid personality, she still made some pretty good friends, albeit with the nurses, as most of the girls didn’t have the right connections and the money to bribe their way so high-up the medical field.

For now, that is. Y/N wanted to change the world. She aimed high and jumped higher. With the right money and influence, things will change. She was sure about that.

It was all going splendid for her, until the First World War began and her three Shelby brothers were enrolled - She was desperate to keep them home, but she knew she couldn’t.

So the next best thing was to go with them.

She was a doctor and they needed war doctors to take care of the wounded, so of course, she was accepted without a second thought.

She had to go to Verdun and to Somme, and she had to see so many people being brutally taken away from life - Bombs, gunshots, wails of anguish and despair, fear, cries, agony and shivers.

If Y/N could describe war with a single word, it would be simply ‘Hell’. 

There was no better word to describe it, without a doubt, and an angel in hell always gets her wings burnt horrifically painfully.

She prayed day and night for her three brothers to be alive and well by the end of all this, at least physically, since mentally, she knows neither of them will be the same, that’s for sure.

And this hell went on for four agonizing years that went by, day after day, at an alarmingly lethargic pace, as if time and space were enclosed into a continuous loop of no return, a dark void from which they will never return.

But they did.

And when they did, they were welcomed with hugs and kisses and lots of love from their families...

Yet they reciprocated with a dead look in their eyes.

They died in War, and this was just a second attempt at living, like a dead man roaming the world again.

The worst that happened was Tommy getting shot during his tunneling, but Y/N made sure he would be treated properly, and yet, there was one thing she couldn’t do, no matter how perfect her healing skills were, and that is to erase their mental and emotional pain and all the nightmares and PTSD they had to suffer from.

She tried to stay strong for them, to smile and be radiant as before, to try to take away some of their unseen pain, to talk to them, to sooth them... God knows they needed it. 

She would crawl in Tommy’s bed at forsaken hours and hold him tightly whenever he’d wake up screaming in fear, afraid that the shovels will breach through the walls and he’d get shot again, and she’d talk to him, reassure him and tell him he’s not there anymore and nothing will get to him again, she will protect him from any danger, and her wings were there to shield him.

She would leap out and hug Arthur from behind, dragging him away from murdering or fatally beating more men who looked at him the wrong way, so he wouldn’t lose control of his mind and body again, and she will shoo everyone away while she holds him and lets him cry out his fear and stress and pain.

And John... Poor John... Ever after being home, he was still in a state of shock, and he was so confused, and would look down at his hands, trying to wash them so much that he got burns and irritation, only to get rid of the ocean of blood that he created by killing hundreds of men, and witnessing a thousand more.

And yet...

There was nobody there for her.

Nobody to hold her down whenever she wanted to lash out into hysterics and tear everyone apart limb from limb. There was nobody there to reassure her that she didn’t fail anyone for not managing to save the man split in ten pieces after falling prey to a bomb. That there was nothing wrong with taking lives as long as you protect your own. There was nobody to reassure her during a nightmare or embrace her protectively whenever she’d flinch, jump or panic from the louder noises or frequent gunshots all over Birmingham.

She needed a change. She was going further down and down, spiraling into the horrible abyss that the bottomless pits of anguish and torment she was succumbing to, and she knew that, no matter how much she’d smile and say ‘I’m alright’, she’d only drown deeper into her darkest despair.

And that’s how she chose to cope with all her pain. Work herself into exhaustion, study, practice, work, learn - Do anything but sleep or stay idle - As long as her mind was preoccupied with different things, there was no way she’d recognize her downwards descend into hell.

Thus, with continuous work, gunshot threatenings and more influence and bribes, she managed to become the Head of the Birmingham hospital, as the only capable surgeon in the city.

But now that she achieved this, she needed something new. She couldn’t fall into platitude, or she’d go insane. She constantly needed stimulation, because if she relaxes, even by a little, she will remember she is a human being with human emotions and that’s when shit will hit the fan hard, and she was afraid that was the point of no return.

So she extended her influence in London, went to conferences, met new people and ironically, the big hospital was close to The Angel and Camden Town and she became sort of an administrator - section chief around, so she could organize every patient and treatment the way she wanted. Everyone reported to her.

She was Britain’s Angel.

Things were going very well for her, she got a lot of money, people loved her, she was neutral with all the gangsters, mafia, police and every normal peasant or royalty - Healing did not discriminate against any social criteria made by the higher ups - And she had a very lovely, small house and a beautiful flower garden, a lovely maid who helped her keep things tidy, a decent car ( although she preferred walking ) and a few dogs to keep her company.

Another day, another struggle to keep on going. Y/N got up, drank her morning tea in peace while listening to the gramophone. She combed her long hair, letting it cascade down her back, completely disregarding the fashion of the Roaring ‘20s, and went to look at her wardrobe. She chose a black turtleneck thin blouse with high-waisted black pants, a pair of leather boots, some accessories and an elegant trench coat which she wore over her shoulders. It was Spring, so it wasn’t truly cold enough to dress warmly, but not hot enough to wear a sundress either.

The most peculiar thing happened while walking to the hospital - She heard a groan of pain from a dark alley and going to investigate, she saw a fair haired man whose white shirt was stained with red.

“Is it yours?” the woman asked him as she carefully stepped in front of him, completely disregarding the two dead bodies from the ground.

“Some o’ it. Most o’ it is theirs, poor fellas.” he tilted his head to the side left and right, almost comically.

“Fairs. Let’s get you to the hospital, I’ll treat your wound. Free of charge, of course. Let the state pay for something for once.” she chuckled lightly, extending her hand for him to take - To accept her proposal.

“Who are you, Miss? I don’t recall ever seein’ you ‘round. A new nurse from the hospital?” he asked as he almost skeptically stepped by her side, following her.

“Oh, yes, of course, I’m sorry, I forgot my manners. I am Y/N... I’m sort of the head of the hospital nearby. And, uh... I’m a surgeon.” she grinned at him serenely, almost as if to defy and shock him by his previous assumptions.

“A woman doctor, aye? Now that... That’s top. How’d ya do that? I thought they didn’t accept women at University ‘n such.” despite his words, he seemed genuinely interested and wasn’t mocking her.

“Well... Yes, not wrong. And I want to change that. Hmm, how do I explain this without scaring you away... I’m a pretty smart cookie I guess!” her laugh was crystalline and lovely, and if weren’t for the pain from the bullet he took, he would have laughed as well rather mirthfully.

“That you are, lass, I’m sure.” he grunted as he nodded, a bit robotically.

“Ah, we’ve arrived. Before we go in, are you from a mafia gang or something? Some social... Political... Something? It’s not that I care, but I have to put people in different wings for their own good, you know?” she chuckled awkwardly, fidgeting with her fingers a bit.

“I’m not sure I understand, lass.” he raised his eyebrow, analyzing the soft-spoken woman, trying to understand her intentions, whether they were good or bad.

“Well... My hospital accept everyone, you know? But at the same time I don’t think most people want to be rooming with coppers. Or... I know there are some gang wars around... Italians and Jews I think, or something like that. To put some Sabinis and some from Solomons’ gang in the same room, I not only fear for their lives, but also for the good of the rest of the patients and my hospital, you get me? That’s why I at least have to ask. Who knows, maybe I have some of your peers around for you and you can chat and feel better together.” she shrugged at him, feeling a bit uncomfortable being stared like that by him.

“Alright, alright, I get it, lass. Let’s go to the Jews, right? Y’got some o’ those, don’t ya?” he asked, following her as he watched her smile and greet sweetly every person she was walking past.

“Oh yes, of course. Yesterday came a boy called Oliver... Oh, I mean Ollie. He gets upset when I call him by his full name. And there’s this one called David. They said they work for Alfie Solomons, so I put their occupations as bakers. Would you like me to do the same for you as well?” she asked as she hurried inside the room and asked where he would like to stay, and thus preparing the bed.

“Ye even got flowers ‘round ‘ere. This looks more like a home than a hospital if y’ask me.” he chuckled softly as he let himself fall down on the bed, taking off his shoes.

“Oh, yes! Studies show that if patients feel welcomed and are well taken care of, they have higher chances of recovering at a much faster pace. I wanted to test this theory, so I made a contract with the flower shop down town to always bring me flowers. Isn’t that lovely?” she smiled sweetly at him, which rendered the man speechless and in awe.

“Boss, what happened?!” suddenly, Ollie’s worried voice resounded through the room as he leapt from his bed, by the mysterious man’s side.

“Just some dead fish, don’t you worry, lad.” he downplayed his injury as the woman watched the wholesome exchange between those two.

“Oliver - Uh... Ollie, I mean, forgive me. I have to extract the bullet from Mr. Solomons’ body. I will have to ask you to please not worry, I promise to save him, okay?” why was this woman so sweet with everyone? Was that how a doctor should be? Or was she just some exemplary woman?

“...Alright, miss...” the boy muttered, dejected as he watched the woman leave the room, no doubt to get the right equipment for the extraction.

“Honestly, lad, you worry like some maiden. Let the girl do ‘er job.” the Jewish boss chuckled reassuringly at the tall brunet boy.

“She’s no girl, Mr. Solomons. She’s Britain’s Angel. Haven’t you heard o’ her?” Ollie went to sit on the boss’s bed, leaning down to whisper in his ear.

“That’s ‘er? Really?” Alfie’s eyes widened in surprise, but he quite understood now why she earned the reputation.

“Aye! She grew up with the Peaky Blinders and their influence and bribes got her into University, but she’s like super smart! I ‘eard they call her Angel or somethin’, especially after her services in the War. Can you believe that?! A woman voluntarily enrolling into war?! That’s insane, who’d want a free ticket to hell?!” Ollie’s voice became a bit higher as he gossiped with his boss.

“Someone who wants to protect her family.” a feminine chuckle broke the conversation as the two Jews snapped their heads towards the entrance, seeing her casually leaning back on the wall, looking at them with an amused expression, mock-reprimanding. “Don’t you know it’s not nice to gossip?”

“Sorry, lass. This one has quite the chatter mouth to him! ‘e just can’t seem to ever shut it!” his over the top gesticulation, among with Ollie’s shocked expression made the girl hide her mouth to laugh as she shook her head and pushed the tray with the needed instruments to Alfie’s bed.

“True. If he didn’t call you Boss, I wouldn’t have known who you were, Mr. Solomons. Now, I would have to ask you to let me unbutton your shirt so I can begin the procedure. It won’t last long, and with the local anaesthesia, you won’t even feel a thing... For the most part, at least.” she chuckled awkwardly as she sat down on his bed, smiling calmly at him.

“Nah, lass, no fancy ana-thingy, I want none o' that. Ain’t gonna get some drugs to put me down. I’ve been through this before in war, right, and ya didn’t have anaesthesia in war either, so that’s that.” as he said those things, he immediately noticed the smile disappearing from her face as a dark look flashed before her eyes that used to sparkle with fake happiness.

“It’s local anaesthesia, it won’t make you sleep. Besides, I used cocaine in war. It still works. Don’t be like that, Alfie. Please.” she seemed to almost desperately want to use that numbing solution for some reason.

“Why do you insist on going against your patient’s wishes, miss doctor?” he challenged her, narrowing her eyes, as if he was trying to peer into her mind.

“I can’t stand people’s raw cries. You heard Ollie. I’ve been to war, but a part of me never returned home. If I can do something to absolve the pain from someone, I’m gonna do it, whether they like it or not.” her dark voice seemed to make a complete 180 from the sweet one from earlier.

“Do you do the same with coppers too, lass?” his light question, as he unbuttoned his shirt, came as a begrudged agreement to her proposition.

“Nah. I just hit them over the head with a bottle of alcohol. Works every time.” her devious, vague smirk made him wonder whether what she was saying was true or not.

“Now that -- I really wanna see that, right. Would’ya call me next time you gotta do that?” Alfie chuckled as he attentively watched her gently wipe the blood from his skin.

“It’s usually a spontaneous decision, really. I get impulsive too, sometimes, you know? I’m not perfect. But, should the time come, I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to have an audience that would be pleasantly surprised by my act of aggression.” she smiled softly as she carefully administrated the novocain around the area where he got the bullet.

“So where’d ya serve?” he asked, as the girl encouraged him to talk and get his mind away from the procedure.

“Somme and Verdun. I asked to be deployed as close as possible to the Shelbies... I’m sure you got that by what Ollie just told you. Y’know, the tunnels Tommy dug and all that? Wasn’t fun. And you, Alfie? ... Ah, actually, forgive me, I shouldn’t address you so casually without asking for your permission, I got ahead of myself. You can call me by my first name too. I prefer it that way, kinda. It’s more casual and light-hearted.” she chuckled awkwardly - Alfie realized she wasn’t the best at social interactions. He wondered if this was just how she was, or it was a post-war effect.

“No, s’all right, ya can call me Alfie, no problem. I was a Captain in war, right, I was a Captain and I led tons of lads to their death, yeah, but we killed more than we got killed, so that’s that, I guess. Meddled with gas’n’bombs’n shit like that.” Despite trying to keep things light hearted, he noticed the upset look on her face.

“As long as you’re alive, anything is justified.” She muttered, more to herself than to him as she started poking the area under anaesthesia to see if it got numbed down properly.

“Oi, lass, how about I tell you a story, aye? ‘S pretty funny, I reckon.” He suggested, seeing as she smiled softly and nodded at him, putting on her gloves, ready to extract the bullet old-school.

“Sure, Alfie, I’d love that.” She gave him a quick look as he fingers dug inside his wound, making him flinch.

“So, this happened during war, right. My regiment had some nasty Italians around, and they pissed me off so fucking much, yeah. Well, I tell ya, I once carried my own personal form of stigmata on an Italian.” He used one of his hands to gesticulate wildly, as if to keep her engaged in the story whilst he grunted from the discomfort and pain he felt as she rummaged inside his wound.

“Ohh, the Italians. This is going to be a very good story, I’m sure. What did you do?” her smile widened slightly as she felt the bullet shards and started extracting them one by one, putting them on a napkin until they all formed a complete bullet.

“Listen, Y/N. Listen, right. I pulled his face up against the train and shoved a 6 inch nail up his fucking nose and I hammered it on with a duct board, aye.” As he told his story, Y/N had to turn around and slouch a bit, unable to contain her laughter.

“Oh my God, Alfie, that was horrible!” but despite the words used, she just laughter harder.

“It was fucking biblical, lass, I tell ya!” his voice went a bit higher, as he started chuckling as well.

“Okay, okay, say that again, but this time slower. I-I want to imagine – To, to get a better image of this in my head. “ no matter how much she tried to hide her laugh, she couldn’t, which only fueled his wish to amuse her.

“So, this fucking margherita bastard came to me and started throwing around those cross fingered hands back and forth like he wanted th’ gouge my eyes out o’ somethin’. Just! Like! this!” Alfie started aggressively mimicking the Italian hand gestures as the girl had to put down the needle and thread from shaking so much.

“G-Go on!” she encouraged him quickly.

“Yeah, so, listen, I grabbed him by the fucking head, yeah, and I saw this bigass nail, like this big, and shoved it up his nose, y’know, like the fuckin’ Egyptians hooked the brain out through the nose, right, with the mummies and shit.” He had no idea why, but he really enjoyed making her laugh like this.

“I think I’m getting a nose bleed just by imagining this!” she covered her face entirely as she swung left and right from laughing so hard.

“He’s leaning back on the train now, yeah, and he’s hazy like he’s fuckin’ high on pepperoni or some shit, and I see this board just layin’ there on th’ ground, innocently, begging to be used somehow. So I pick it up nicely, yeah, I pick it up and SLAM it into his face. Once. Twice. Thrice. More. Dunno how many times, until I can’t see the nail anymore… But I guess, by then, he didn’t really have much of a face anymore, kinda just became a jam pancake or somethin’.” The girl needed a few minutes of laughter to calm down and wipe her eyes from laughing so hard.

“Oh, Alfie, I haven’t laughed so hard in my entire life. That was wonderful. I-I have no words. I can’t… I can’t… Okay, I’m good now, I’m good. But don’t say more stories, I won’t be able to sew up your wound if I laugh like that again.” She grinned at him, grabbing the needle and thread.

“Fine, lass, fine, I won’t say more stories today. How about you say one, then?” the Jew leader smirked at her with amusement.

“O-Oh, uhm… I-I’m not exactly the funniest person in the world, you know. Actually, I’m not even sure I know what to say. I’m a horrible conversation maker.” She chuckled nervously, as she continued to make knots and stitch the wound.

“Doesn’t matter, anything works, really! I just wanna hear an angel speak.” Mr. Solomons was truly an amiable one.

“Well, alright then, let me think. So, I think you’ve heard already of the Peaky Blinders and how there are quite a few Shelby siblings, yes? Well, they used to have a baby cousin, before he was taken away by some nasty coppers and put in foster care. I was also pretty young back then, but I remember Arthur used to throw baby Michael out of the window repeatedly for either John or me to catch. Mind you, it wasn’t the ground floor.” She chuckled lightly, remembering the stupid kid things they used to do before the war, when life was so simple.

“Really, now?! Poor lad, must’ve grown up with some serious height fear!” Alfie barked a laugh.

“That’s one thing. John put him in a shoe box and kicked him down Watery Lane. Sometimes when cars were passing by too. It was insane, really, growing up with them. But it was fun. If you ignore the copious amount of times we got in trouble and almost died.”  She mused, finishing the procedure and applying some marigold ointment before bandaging the wound properly.

“Thanks, lass, that was quite the experience. Well, I’ll be off then, I won’t bother you anymore, yeah.” He said, trying to get up, only to quickly get pushed down on the bed.

“No! You need to rest and get better, as well as that, you can’t do effort or brusk movements or you risk breaking the stitches.” She explained as he saw worry in her eyes.

“Let’s compromise, alright lass? I’m these guys’ leader, yeah, I’m the leader, so I can’t stay here, I ‘ave to go home’n all that. But I promise you I’ll take it easy and only do office work, yeah, that good? And to thank ya, I’ll even call you by the bakery, how’s that? Nice and warm fresh cookies? How’s that sound?” he asked, as he saw the girl clasp her hands together to her chest.

“Well… Alright then, I can’t really refuse you. But please do be careful. At least let me walk you home or something, I don’t think anyone will attack you if I’m around.”  She muttered, still worried.

“Oi, lass, I am the gentleman here, right, I am, so I should offer to walk you home, not the other way around, aye. Let me walk ya home and tomorrow I’ll come by with cookies.” as he got up, he was ready to button up his messy shirt, but the girl stopped him.

“Alright, Alfie, you win. Let me find you a new shirt, I’m sure we have some around. Before I leave, I have to check up on one of Sabini’s men. It will be pretty short, but I still have to make sure he’s alive and kicking.” The girl offered him a smile as she rushed out to find him a new blouse.

Much to his surprise, she returned rather quickly, even dressed in her normal attire, as when she first came by, and they were ready to leave that wing. However, as soon as they exited the room, the girl was pinned to the wall by none other than Mr. Sabini himself. Alfie was ready to react and throw him off her, but a stopping signal from her did the trick, albeit, he was still confused.

“Mr. Sabini. How many times must I remind you not to greet me in this inappropriate way? I lost count after twenty.” she smiled sarcastically at him as she roughly pushed him off.

“I simply cannot help myself around una fiore cosi bello! You have to understand me, mio angelo, it is your fault for being so beautiful. And how many times have I told you to call me my by name, bella?” The sleazy Italian smirked perverted at her.

“It is inappropriate to display such behaviour with your patients, as well as that, I do not feel comfortable addressing you in any way but the formal one. I will also have to ask you, again, not to use compliments with me, I will not, under any circumstance, accept your courting proposal. Not to mention, you and your men have your own ward at a completely different floor, so I will have to politely ask you to please stop bothering my other patients who have the same rights of being treated as you do.” Her voice was so cold and venomous, as a sword’s edge cutting deep into flesh. Alfie was shocked to see the angelic woman capable of such a demeanour, considering how sweet and shy she was previously when she was laughing so much that she started tearing up.

“But Y/N, amore mio, mio Tesoro, I can give your lovely hospital monthly charity cheques, to fund it, bring you only the latest technology in pharmaceutical and medical stuff! I can buy you anything you want, only say so, and I will bring it to you! I will –“ he continued boasting about his money until he got quickly cut off by the girl.

“Enough. I don’t need your money, Mr. Sabini, I have my own. Not only that, I will also really want to ask you to stop bothering me already. I have to remind you, you have been harassing me for quite a long time now, and I have all the right in the world to choose the patients I’m admitting, considering this is now MY hospital, and if you don’t stop your desperate cry for attention, I will completely eliminate the Sabini ward and divulge all your secrets to the other mafia gangs. And don’t you dare pull out your stupid gun and threaten me, I’m not afraid of you or of death. I already died in war, now I’m just living a second chance. Good bye, Mr. Sabini.” And with that, Y/N turned on her heels, motioning for Alfie and Ollie to follow her as the click of her shoes echoing through the corridors emanated the angry aura around her.

“So you’ve got the same kind o’ personal vendetta against those stupid Italians too, aye?” Alfie chuckled, hoping to lighten up the mood for her.

“Yep. That story from before – I’d do it with Sabini without thinking twice. Or I’ll have you do it, I don’t think I even have the physical strength to pick up a duct board. I have noodle arms.” She let out an amused breath as the Jew looked at her with a smile.

“Ya bet I’ll help ya.” And thus, they arrived in front of her house, being greeted, as usual, by her barking dogs who jumped on her from happiness.

“So… Tomorrow, yes? When should I be expecting you?” she asked, trying to pacify her excited puppies.

“Maybe ‘round noon?” and thus, the agreement stood and the girl waved at him sweetly as she went inside the house, followed by her furry babies. “Y’know what, Ollie? This one is a woman that comes once every thousand years. I dunno how Thomas Shelby could let go of her, but he can’t be as smart as he thinks he is.” Alfie chuckled, nodding to his right hand man to begin walking.

The next day, as expected, Y/N woke up early to make sure nothing is out of place everywhere in the house. Maybe it was her weirdly acting up over-perfectionism, but she couldn’t stand still if something wasn’t where it should have been.

After all, she hasn’t had visitors in… Well, never. It was always her who would visit the Shelby family, but other than that, she would meet up with friends in pubs and clubs, not at home.

Before she knew it, noon arrived and the sound of barking announced Alfie’s arrival. As she opened the house’s door, she noticed he was on the ground, getting loved by all the dogs.

Shocker.

“They say dogs can always tell a good person from a bad one. You passed their test, well done.” She gave him an amused side-smile, leaning on the door frame.

“Anyone who has so many dogs is trustworthy in my books.” He cackled as he got up, walking towards the girl, holding the basket up so the four-legged beasts won’t steal it away.

“I taught them horribly bad. They eat at the table with me, I cook for them more than I cook for myself. And now, look at them, those rascals, they will do anything for food as if they’re famished! Spoiled brats, I’m telling you!” she smiled as she removed the flower vase from the table and poured some tea, aromatic and very nicely smelling.

He admired the tea pot and the matching cups – They were a soft, light blue with painted pink flowers. – Very cute, he thought, and very fitting to her own sweetness. He’s seen so many women affected by the bitterness and anger of having to be unheard, submissive and mistreated, in this ugly, monochrome, wet Britain, so meeting Y/N was like a breath of fresh air, completely different, not afraid of being as sweet and kind as she wants, without implicating herself in any trouble or business and just doing her own stuff.

“Tea, lass? I haven’t had tea in ages, yeah.” He chuckled as he carefully put the plate of still steaming cookies along with some challah bread.

“…Oh. I forgot most people prefer alcohol. Oh My God, I’m so sorry, I don’t have any kind of alcohol in the house-“ she freaked out a bit, only to be stopped by Alfie’s chuckle.

“I’m a tea guy too, lass, don’t worry so much over silly things like that, right? Tea’s fine too. What’s it got?” he asked, easing her worries quickly.

“Vanilla, cinnamon, cherries and a bit too much honey. I like sweet things.” She smiled at him as she raised the tea cup and clinked it to his. “Cheers.”

“Sweet things like you, little lady, love things just as sweet, yeah? Cheers! It’s quite nice, aye, not bad, not bad at all, I think I’ll want more.” He blinked in surprise as he saw the girl immediately get up and pour more tea into his cup.

“Woaw, Alfie, you’ve made these? I’ve never eaten chocolate chip cookies before! They’re amazing! And this bread… It’s so soft and it tastes like honey! If you ever wanted to stop your underground business, you could definitely make a fortune opening up your own bakery! Imagine this… Alfie Solomons, the sweetest man in all Britain, loved by every citizen, earns a Royal Warrant from the Queen for baking the best cookies in the world!” Y/N praised the man as she ate what seemed to be the 4th or 5th cookie by now.

“Bah! Who cares ‘bout that old hag with a crown on her head? If the right person likes it, it’s all that matter, right, nothing else matters to me, and you already like my baking, so that’s that, yeah, that’s just that!” Alfie laughed, making the girl in front of him make a cute kitty smile and look down, her cheeks becoming just a tiny bit rosy.

“Alfie, now you’re just being too nice with me. You don’t have to do that just because I treated you.” She chuckled softly, surprising the man.

“You think I’m being nice to you because o’ that? That’s silly of you, lass, yeah, very silly, that’s not the case in the least, that’s just who I am!” he protested vehemently, his golden chain bracelet clinking softly with each movement.

“So you just like me? Just like that?” her eyes widened in shock.

“Why’re you looking so surprised, lass?” his voice became gradually much calmer and sweeter, seeing the genuine emotions from her.

“Oh, I just… I haven’t heard that in quite a while, I guess that’s why. Apart from the doctor work I do, and all the people thanking me for saving them, I don’t have much social interaction, so someone saying they like me for  my personality, as Y/N, not Britain’s Angel who saved them, is… You know… Unexpected.” She admitted, smiling shyly at him.

“How would you like to hear another story?” it’s true that he wanted to see her so bashful in front of him, but he also loved hearing her laugh, so why not give it a try with one more of his famous stories.

“Oh, I’d love that! You have the best stories, Alfie!” she immediately cheered up, putting her elbows on the table and resting her chin on her hands oh so cutely.

“Now, now, don’t flatter me, lass, it’ll go to my head, yeah, I’ll get used to you cute words.”  He leaned back on the chair, getting a better look at her.

“That just means I’ll have to say them more often.” Oh, how cheeky, Alfie thought as he grinned at her.

“Right, perfect plan! So, there you go! Tommy Shelby came by recently – Just a few days ago, right – And he, he started being a cheeky bastard with me, so I wanted to teach him a lesson. Got the gun out, cocked it in his face. I said – Look, let’s say I just shot you already, right, in the fucking face, and the bullet goes bone, mush, bone, cabinet over there.” Alfie made a finger gun with one of his hands, pointing it at the smiling girl, and then pointed behind her, where a pretty landscape painting was hanging.

“Oh, Tommy in London? I’m surprised he didn’t tell me anything about coming here, or at least visiting me. What a shame. I’m not surprised by his behaviour though, he’s become a bit of a jerk after the war.” She nodded in acknowledgement, smiling at him to continue.

“Right, it’s a shame, it really is, because that cabinet is fucked. I gotta get rid of it. So, what I do is this, I said. It’s fucking simple, mate.” And thus, he intertwined his fingers together on the table, playfully putting on the intimidating look of his.

“You burn it to splinters?” she tilted her head serenely like a cute puppy.

“Nah, even better. I cut that cabinet in half, don’t I? I do, I’ll just cut the cabinet, I cut… I cut the cabinet literally in half, mate, I said, and threw him a rag to wipe that bleeding nose of his. He was looking at me like a fucking dead body, lass, beaten up and bruised, by Sabini’s men, but still got the cheek to play coy with me on my turf!” Alfie told her the truth, knowing she’d want to know about her old friend.

“Tommy got beaten up by Sabini? What in the world did he do…? That boy never knows when to stop, does he. Anyway, so you cut the cabinet in half. Now what do you do? Throw it in the ocean?” she asked, quickly forgetting about the Shelby boy.

“No! I take half of that cabinet and I put it into a barrel, and take the other half of the cabinet, and all its pieces, and I put that into another barrel.” His hands shifted between left and right to show off imaginary barrels.

“And you fill them up with gun powder and make them explode in your enemy’s factory?” she grinned excitedly at him.

“Gosh, lass, no! But now I hate that you have more imagination than me! But listen – This barrel – I send this barrel off to… Mandalay.” He flapped his left hand around dismissively, making the girl bite her lip to stop herself from laughing. “And the other barrel off to somewhere like… I don’t know…” and he looked deep into Y/N’s eyes, unblinking and trying to come up with a funny city name, as she smiled with expectation for the punchline. “Timbuktu! You ever been?” the line was successfully delivered as the girl had to hang her head down and hide her face in her hands as she burst into laughter.

��Mandalay? Timbuktu? Where the hell are those?” she asked, unable to control herself.

“Fuck if I know, lass, but that’s the best of it! And y’know what? Know what, lass? I saw Tommy Shelby, right? Yeah, I saw him. All gloomy and dark and stuff. But I always thought he’d have a great, big, fucking gold ring in his nose!” Alfie joked around, and the girl was almost afraid she’d faint from laughing so hard.

“Oh, Alfie, you are the funniest man alive. So what did he say, how did he react to that?!” she urged him to continue.

“Nothin’! Nothin’ at all! He was silent as a fucking lake, lass! That Shelby boy has got no funny bone in his fucking body! Can’t even make a joke with him! Shoulda learnt from you, your company is a delight.” He saw Y/N quickly nod in agreement.

“Yeah, that’s right, Tommy has no sense of humour at all! He hasn’t smiled or laughed since the war. He’s changed completely. I know he’s been through a lot, you know? Everyone has. He still has that kind heart, and all he does, he does for his family… But it wouldn’t hurt him to be more genuine with them, or accept the fact that he’s not the only hurt one who can’t get over the war. I mean – I mean John, he’s my age! Got married, has like 4 kids already, married again and he’s still a brat as always! And you, Alfie! You said you were a captain, but you are the greatest person I ever met! He has no excuse for being a jerk. If he had a nose ring, like the bulls have, you could’ve just gotten a hook and tied him to a car and had him paraded around the streets of Camden Town!” she giggled in amusement, roasting her old friend shamelessly.

“Y’know lass, I think you’re as much of a fairy as I am, aye. You look all angelic and pure, but you have a wicked sense of humour!” the girl couldn’t help but let out a mock gasp of hurt and offense.

“Me? Wicked? Never! My, Alfie, you hurt me - How ever in this world could you possibly call me the Devil, when I’m known as Birmingham’s Angel? Recently, Britain’s Angel?” she laughed, almost as though she was making fun of her own nicknames.

“I think I’d much rather hear you being Alfie’s Angel.” Y/N’s smile froze, and her cheeks warmed up instantly, her gaze looking down at the tiny crumbles left behind from the tasty cookies. “Wha’chu say, lass?”

“I... Think I would like that very much, Alfie.” she could barely contain her timid smile.

“Wonderful news, lass!” Alfie merrily got to his feet. “Well then, I’ll be seeing you tomorrow, pretty Angel. Don’t forget to serve your little companions their dinner at the table, a’ight?” he bent down slightly to plant a small kiss on her cheek, a little ticklish from his bear, before nodding his head at her, a cheeky smile on his face, and he left, not without all the dogs desperately seeking affection from him.

“Alfie’s Angel, huh? Doesn’t sound half-bad.” Y/N giggles softly to herself, only to hear her maid coming out of nowhere and cheering for her for landing such a good man, though not without warning her not to get into trouble with the very many gangs and their wars. She was a sweet girl, Y/N thought - Perhaps Ollie would like to date a lovely lady like herself.

Many days and weeks, and even months passed, and Alfie visited Miss Y/N daily, never skipping a single day, or missing to bring her the prettiest flowers, and the freshest cookies and bread. He was going to spoil her rotten, that one, and he loved every bit of it, especially the shy look she always had on her face, and the hesitation of accepting so many gifts - He just loved pampering her, what could he do? It was in his nature after all.

And Y/N absolutely loved whenever he’d come over, and each day, with a new story to tell, and new jokes and rumours and gossips - He was an absolute delight, and her dogs loved him perhaps a little bit more than they loved her, at this point. It was no wonder, after all - Alfie started baking food for them! And Y/N thought she spoiled them! 

For once, Y/N stopped feeling the terrifyingly heavy pressure of anguish and torment weighting down on her very soul and being. She didn’t feel the need to work her mind into exhaustion, not tire out her body to the point of fainting asleep. She didn’t need to do any of those anymore, to feel alive and human. She only needed to look at those beautiful eyes of his, and those kissable lips, always forming a mirthful smile; to feel vitality returning into her body, and any sense of fear and anxiety escaping her very being. She remembered what it was like to have a sense of care and possessiveness over her own life, and finally, after so long, she wanted to be free - As free as it could get, unbound by any rule and regulation - To just have fun and thrive in the bliss of romance and happiness.

Once Alfie heard that, he kissed her sweet lips for the first time, admitting to wanting to retreat from the mafia life, and retreat to a calmer area where no one would be searching for him. Margate. A small cottage, cozy and warm, by the sea, where nobody would care to scold them for shooting those noisy seagulls, and Cyril and her dogs could run around aimlessly and run day in and day out, while they spend their time reading and baking and all the cutesy things that couples in love are supposed to do.

Before that, however, a few more things had to happen - Retirement wasn’t an easy process, after all, not in this business, and shrouding yourself into the veil of the unknown was even more difficult a task. People wanted their vengeance, after all, and they’d stop at nothing to achieve it. Nothing, including threatening the beautiful, benevolent Angel who was supposed to have neutral immunity from all kinds of parties. That is what she thought. That is what everyone thought. It was the catalyst of Alfie’s decision to speed up his retirement process and get this done and dealt with already. He never felt as angry as he was now.

It came during a time when Tommy rang Y/N asking for a favour, though rather uncomfortable. Alfie didn’t agree with this at all, he warned Y/N it would be dangerous - Deals with Italians were unpredictable, those bastards, and Sabini was a lecherous fuck who wanted to steal her away - But how could Y/N deny doing a favour to the man who helped her reach such heights though his influence? The man she went to war to protect? The man she took a bullet for? Her brother from another mother?

“Y/N, lass, you’re going to get fried to death if you approach that pasta fucker. I can’t just let you go.” Alfie grumbled worriedly. “And it ain’t just Sabini I’m worried about, love, it’s Changretta too. ‘course, all the fucking pizza fuckers came ‘round to screw things over, but Sabini keeps saying he ain’t working with that other fucker.” he paced nervously around the room, to and fro, fro and to. “Y/N, listen - Listen, a’ight? LIsten. It’s not Sabini I’m worried about, y’know? We’ve been at each other’s throats since school, it ain’t flash news, right -- I can deal with ‘im somehow -- But the other one? I know shit about ‘im. Came over from fucking America, and now he thinks he owns the whole fucking world, that one. And y’know what, hun? ‘e can fuckin’ have it, for all I care. Let Tommy Shelby fight with him. But you --- I’ll be fucking damned before I let him take you away from me.”

“Alfie, sweety, look at me.” Y/N got up from the bed, and approached the frantic man. She cupped his face and brought him into a tender kiss. “There’s no force on earth that can keep me apart from you. Besides! The hospital, remember? Even if Changretta comes over, I will just tell him of the deals, and the treatment and... He won’t hurt me.” without even realising, Alfie’s arms were wrapped around her smaller form, holding her close to his chest, pouting like a clingy child. “Alfie~! Come on, don’t tickle me with your beard! I promise I’ll give you attention all the after this is over, okay? But family is family, and I promised to help out. It won’t take long. And... It’s supposed to be some private party, right? A party with lots of people. He can’t just threaten me in front of everyone, right?”

“I don’t like risky things like this, Y/N. Can’t blame a man in love for worryin’.” He muttered against the skin of her neck. “But better tell Tommy I’m not gonna let him send you do his errands for him anymore, a’ight?”

“Alright, alright, I’ll tell him.” she couldn’t help her sweet, uncontrollable giggling, all because of him playfully running that trickly yet well kept beard of his over her soft skin.

Just as promised, Y/N dressed in a very pretty dress, making her look like an innocent, sweet flower blooming in Spring, overshadowing all around her with her beauty, thought there was no Tommy Shelby there waiting to escort her at the party. She didn’t think much about it though - She hadn’t a watch at her, so she couldn’t tell whether she was fashionably late or not, and he just went on ahead to do some of his work dealings with his gang friends. It was none of Y/N’s business, she was just supposed to be there as a peacemaker, a mediator, considering she was neutral with all, thanks to her position as the head of the hospital.

She grabbed herself a glass of champagne from a waiter and waited by the sidelines, watching the party unfold, with gorgeous dancers and the orchestra playing songs of all kinds. When a slowed song began, she awkwardly played the wallflower, not wanting to gain any attention to her, but of course, her not so favourite Italian came by, gallantly asking for a dance. Of course, she couldn’t refuse, more or less because she was a diplomat, and despite all the harassment from the past, all of them taking care in the hospital, at a party, it was all fine. Still, she hoped Alfie could have been there - It would have been more bearable.

“A gorgeous lady like yourself shouldn’t be all alone at a party.” Sabini said, making Y/N give a polite smile.

“Well, I was sure Tommy would be busy talking business with you, Mr. Sabini. I’m surprised you’re here, with me.” the man rose a quizzical eyebrow, hearing that.

“My dear, Thomas Shelby never once spoke to me today. In fact, I was not aware he was here at all.” Y/N’s body froze, and their dance stopped.

“What do you mean?” she asked in a whispery voice. “Tommy said he needed me here, as a mediator between the Peaky Blinders and the other gangs of London. If he’s not here -- Why would he ask me to be here?”

“Ah, bella, bella, bella, so your naivite and innocence only makes you more endearing.” he gave a smug smirk. “Luca Changretta asked your dear Tommy, to have a... Pleasant conversation. Negating deals. Business talks... Men talks. Signorina Y/N, he sent you over to receive a message, as he feared for his life, but counted on our long lasting friendship.” his chuckle sent shivers down her spine. Suddenly, she felt terrified for her life.

“I... Don’t want to get involved in your business matters. I don’t do business. I just heal people, that’s all. I wanted to do Tommy a favour, as he is my brother, but I want to have a peaceful life, away from all the gang wars. Please, let me go home, Mr. Sabini. If you want me to send Tommy a message, I will, but I won’t get involved any further than this.” the Italian nodded his head, an almost nasty smirk on his face. 

“By all means, no one wants to hurt you, Signorina. It would be terribly rude of us to kill the messenger... Though Signor Changretta’s father was ruthlessly killed, in front of his wife, for no reason, by your brothers. But us, bella - We, Italians, care for our family above all, and Signor Changretta admires your devotion to your own. He is going to love meeting you.” Y/N slowly removed her hands from the man’s shoulders and offered a small smile, trying to keep her composure. But she was terrified to the core, almost as much as she had been during the war. Not only did Tommy betray her, but he threw her in a pit of vipers... Like a weaponless gladiator, forced to fight a hundred starving lions in the Colosseum. She was a healer, not a fighter! Damn it, Tommy!

“It was a lovely evening, Mr. Sabini. I will be taking my leave now.” with a certain elegant swiftness, Y/N was able to slip past Sabini and hide her presence in the sea of people, trying to make her way to the exit of the grand mansion, only to bump into another man, much taller than Sabini was, and he was towering over her, a passive smile on his face. It was much clear now, the whole place was filled only with Italians. She was trapped.

“Signora, what kind of man was vile enough to make a woman cry? Tell me, please, I will not have such disrespect in my family.” his accent was heavy, and his aura was dangerous, with a mysterious darkness. The stranger rose a hand to cup her cheek and rose her face to wipe the wet, gleaming under eye of the woman.

“Uh... Forgive me, Mr... I didn’t mean to bump into you and disturb you. I... I am not a very sociable person, I don’t do well with crowds. I... Was hoping to return home.” she offered an uncomfortable smile. This man was trouble.

“Don’t worry, bella, I will make sure to discipline my men better.” he nodded, chewing on what looked like a toothpick... Or a match? Was that a match? “You will have to forgive them. Anyway, may I escort you outside and call for a car for you?” something made her feel as though she hadn’t any choice in the matter.

“Y-Yes, please.” she nodded meekly, her voice barely audible from all the noise of the party.

With his arm around her waist, the stranger gentlemanly escorted the lady outside of the mansion, and outside, into the darkness barely illuminated by the lights from inside the house. Were it not for the loud music and all the chattering from the mansion, the graveyard silence would have been entirely ominous, save for the soft cricket and toad melody.

They were all alone.

“Do you wish to kill me, Mr. Changretta?” Y/N asked, frightened out of her mind.

“Kill you? Oh, Signora, no, no, why in the world would I wish to harm an beautiful lady like yourself?” he let out a sardonic chuckle. “Sabini tells me they call you the Angel of Britain. May I call you... Angelica?” Y/N didn’t answer. “Have I frightened you so, bella? Mi dispiace, it wasn’t my intention.” though, based on the sarcastic slur of his words, he was having his fun tormenting her.

“Mr. Sabini said you wished me to deliver Tommy a message. What is it?” the woman asked, holding her hands together tightly.

“Ah, yes, of course. Very brave of Mr. Shelby, sending his dear sister to do his dirty work. How shameful. You see, bella, we never put our ladies in danger. Sabini especially says he’s taken a liking to you for quite some good years. I can see perfectly well why. I’ve never seen a woman beautiful and intelligent such as yourself.” Luca’s hand found itself caressing her face, his long fingers reaching up to her hair, strong her long velvety hair. “I love how you defy this decade’s fashion, though you manage to look more elegant than most.” he kept complimenting her.

“Mr. Changretta, please... I am already dating a man, and we are soon going to move in together. I would appreciate it dearly if you would not continue your courting, though I am very flattered that one like yourself would find me attractive.” the man looked up at the sky, a dry smile on his face, watching how the lady tried to step backwards every time he inched forwards, only to end up with her back flush against a tree.

“Somehow, I don’t quite believe that. You are far too terrified from the simplest gesture. Admit it, Signora, you’ve never been with a man before, have you?” his smirk only widened watching her face burning with a sweet blush. “You needn’t say any word, your body betrays you.” he chuckled, getting uncomfortably close to her. “I hate making ladies cry. My mamma taught me better than this. She taught me to respect and cherish women, for they are a treasure - And I agree. I will not hard you, Signora Y/N. But perhaps you need to be reminded of the importance you play in this gang war... And maybe even remind your dear brother, as he seems to have forgotten about you and how much you worth. Would he react at all, if I were to laugh in his face and tell him I’ve claimed you? Will he even get angry, if I tell him I killed you? Thomas Shelby finds himself to be rather the undefeatable businessman and politician, but from our latest interaction, I say, he’s a man as much as any other, and he has easily exploitable weaknesses. It is really too bad you had to get caught in the middle of all this. I bear you no ill will, Angelica.” he leaned his face closer and closer to her own, to the point of feeling his warm breath on her skin - She tried to move away, though he fixed her head, cupping her cheeks forcefully. He truly just wanted to steal a little kiss, nothing more! He wanted to get a taste of her pink, plump lips that looked like the softest rose petals, bathing in shiny morning dew.

Instead, the loud, resounding sound of a gunshot made the man close his eyes in anger, whilst Y/N squeaked in fear, trying to fall to the ground and defend herself; an awful habit she couldn’t break even after the war was over. Luca used the woman as a shield, one hand buried in her hair, the other, holding a pistol to her temple.

From the paved street the soft sound of a cane was heard, as Alfie Solomons appeared, looking all dressed for a party. He looked alone. Was it him who shot, or was it another? Surely, he wouldn’t be stupid enough to come by all alone, even if it was to rescue Y/N - And if he did, it only meant her worth was a hundred times more than he expected. Was he the man she mentioned just previously?

“Ah, Mr. Solomons, what an unexpected surprise. I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure. I’m Luca Changretta.” the Italian smirked, chewing on that match, approaching his face to touch his cheek to Y/N’s. 

“Oh, yeah, I know who you are. You are a bit of a failure, aren’t you? You come all the way over here, to this country, yeah, in order to kill Tommy Shelby - But, I mean, well - He’s not dead, is he?” Alfie smiled fakely at the Italian, forcing himself not to look at the whimpering look of his beloved.

“He would have been, were he not saved by Angelica over here. But he cowarded out, didn’t he? Can’t even have a conversation with someone who hides behind his sister’s skirts.” Changretta sneered mockingly.

“That’s it. I’ll tell you what, right? I didn’t want to come ‘ere, in your home, without a gift, yeah? It woulda been rude - And Jews are known for their hospitality, of course. Here - It’s free. A souvenir.” Alfie rose a single bottle of his rum, showing he was unarmed. “Now, why don’t you let go of that lady over there, and we say our goodbyes?”

Changretta smirked darkly at him. “Signora, why don’t you take the bottle and have a sip? Rum is sweet, for women. Men prefer dry, strong gin.” with trembling hands, Y/N extended her arms to get the bottle from Alfie. It was almost excruciatingly painful, being so close to his protective arms, yet so very far away... “Go on, Angelica, take a sip.” Alfie frowned, watching Y/N’s face contort slightly - She didn’t drink alcohol, she hated it. Even if rum was sweeter than most alcohols, it still wasn’t anywhere close to her sweet teas with too much honey in them.

“This clown wants me to run his shit rum into New York.” Changretta let out a dry laugh, insulting the Jew in Italian.

“Damn fucking straight, mate, otherwise you wouldn’t still be thieving my oxygen and patience, would you? Because I have 200 barrels a month, yeah, cleared by your people, distributed through your teamsters.” Alfie continued with the straight business deal.

“Didn’t you just hear me? People want gin these days.” Luca repeated.

“I heard you wanted to come over with a proposition for me. I hate waiting, yeah - So, that’s why I came over, to quicken things up a bit, before they get stale, right. I already know what you want. I just want to hear you say it out loud so I can check how ridiculous it is.” Alfie inched closer to the two, not once breaking his overly dramatic mannerism.

“Ah, bella, what will I do, I am losing my patience with him.” Luca shook his head in disdain, burying his face in the crook of her neck. Based on the twitch of his enemy’s eye, he had hurried over with a half-baked plan. No doubt, Thomas Shelby must have gone over to him to search for an ally in him. To come in the enemy’s den for a woman - Alfie Solomons was a suicidal maniac. “There is gonna be a little fight, a boxing match, between your boy and Tommy Shelby’s boy, and the whole Shelby family is gonna be there.” Alfie hummed, already knowing all this. “And you, Mr. Solomons, you too will be there.” Luca started stroking a lock of Y/N’s hair, intentionally taunting the Jew. “You know, they say you’re a smart guy. You already know what we want before we say it. That’s funny because I believe I know what you want even before you say it. Yeah. You want the girl back, that’s why you’re here. Maybe for the barrels too. But the girl... Yes, I get why you’d want her back. Can’t miss out on claiming a treasure like her.” he pressed a kiss to her temple, his lips lingering and going down, towards her ear, whispering a small threat and softly slipping the sleeve of her dress a little down her shoulder with the barrel of his gun, revealing flawless skin, before leaning down her neck, and to her bare shoulder. Y/N tried to struggle away from him, whimpering from the uncomfortable fear she was feeling, and how violated she felt by the Italian, but the tight grip on her hair only brought out a whimper of pain and disgust from her.

If someone could look deep into Alfie’s eyes, they could see a wrathful fire raging inside his soul. He wanted to make pasta sauce from that fucker for daring touch his sweet lady and making tormenting her so. He had to play his cards well, feign ignorance and uncare, otherwise, he was afraid that wop will be taking Y/N as a bargaining chip and blackmail him, to the point that not even Tommy Shelby playing God would be able to save the sweet lady. “I want some cash too. Don’t worry, ‘cause I’ve broken it down here.” from the pocket of his coat, he took out a neatly folded paper. “A list of costs pertaining to the assassination of a dear friend, all right?” from his other pocket, he took out his glasses, putting them on as he read the terms and conditions to their deal. “Now, a normal dispatch, well, it’s, you know, 500 pounds cost, but you’re going to have to have to add another 100 to that because Tommy Shelby, like me, is from an oppressed people... And... I need you to put another tonne on top of that because his brother is a fucking animal and he will come after me.” Alfie kept reading, frowning every so often at the inconveniences he was listing. “And then you will need to put another 100 on top of that, because, well, you’re a fucking wop, mate, hmmm?” Changretta remained speechless, looking at the mess of a Jew who found himself hilarious, messing with him. “And then... We have to deal with the ugly business of which I’ve been incredibly clear of, before I’ll need another 500 pounds, because, like I stated, Tommy Shelby is a very, very good friend of mine.” though he wished to wring his neck for throwing Y/N in danger like that. “And... Another 500 pounds for threatening my wife. And 500 more pounds for making her cry.” Alfie folded back the paper, handing it to his enemy. “Total is down there, in black and white. All right? Crack on.”

“Mr. Solomons, I’m gonna be very fucking clear with you. I don’t need you to kill anybody. I have people that I trust, okay? So you are gonna take my boys and you are gonna bring them to the ring as seconds.” Alfie frowned at the Italian.

“Well, in order to qualify as my seconds, right, they would first have to qualify as being Jewish, yeah? And in order to do that, they would have to replace their natural Italian fucking arrogance with a Jewish air of absolute certainty. You see, my good friend, Tommy Shelby, he will know the difference.” he warned the unbothered Italian don.

“You see, these days, back in the old country, a lot of the, uh.... You know, the Jewish people, they, uh... They are having to pass themselves off as Italian.” Changretta chuckled menacingly. 

“All right, well, you’ll have to add another ton onto your bill - For being a cunt, mate.” Alfie refuted with a chilling calm. “All right?”

Luca looked away briefly. “You will bring my men to Birmingham?”

Alfie nodded his head, hoping his crazy humour was acting as reassurance for his lady. “You will circumcise them?” Luca was mute. “Yeah, you will have to circumcise them. Because the Peakys will check, yeah?”

“If they’re going to have their pretty doctor check, surely, she wouldn’t quite know the difference, would she?” the Italian jabbed at the Jew, who was imagining different ways of torturing this fucker.

“Don’t bother your little wop brain over what my wife does. She won’t be there.”  Luca smirked, knowing very well his uppercut landed perfectly.

“Okay. Any other requests?” he asked, laxing his grip on her hair. “Two hundred fucking barrels, we have a deal.” Alfie frowned, looking at him with disinterest. “What’s the matter? I said we have a deal.”

“Eh, you just made a deal without a negotiation, didn’t you?” Alfie stared him down. Luca affirmed that statement. “Yeah, Tommy Shelby was right about you, wasn’t he?” then, for the first time, Y/N heard the man speak in his own, native language. “You plan to kill us all.” though she didn’t quite understand what he said, the look in his eyes was enough to give her a good guess. Still, with the deal in place, Luca Changretta smirked in triumph, and with one last gesture of condescence, he forced Y/N into a deep kiss, before pushing her towards the Jew. “Sogni d’oro, mia bella Angelica.”

Alfie instinctively lunged forward, catching and gathering his lady into a tight embrace and watching carefully as Changretta stepped inside the mansion. He could feel Y/N’s soft trembles of her small body as she cried in soft whimpers - She was trying desperately to stay composed, but after everything she’d gone through, he couldn’t blame her. That margherita fucker must have creeped her to hell and back. “It’s okay, darling, cry as much as you need. I’m here, love, I’m here, okay? Alfie’s here, and I’m not gonna let go of you again.” she felt so warm, so safe in his large arms. “Let’s go home, yeah? No more of this gang shit. I’ve done over my plans, and we’re leaving faster. I’m not gonna let any of this fuckers even look at you ever again.” he massaged and stroked the back of her head, where that jerk hurt her, and he kissed her forehead and her cheeks and even her nose, before guiding her to the car, with Ollie driving them to the comfort of her own home, with her many dogs, and a shit ton of guards all around.

Y/N couldn’t say anything, and when they got home, Alfie had her maid draw her a warm bath so she could relax. He made sure to put a nice vinyl on the gramophone, and had Ollie return to their house to bring the emergency cookies for comfort, whilst he continued to internally curse Thomas.

He wasn’t sure how long she calmed down in the bath, with her maid comforting and chatting with her to get her mind off of the anguish she was put through, but when she returned, she was wearing one of her beautiful silk nightgown that barely went down to her knees, and she let herself plop on the bed, cuddling into his arms like a kitten seeking warmth. “How did you know?” her soft voice asked as he pulled them to lay down, stroking her hair and her face dearly, occasionally planting kisses and calling her sweet things. When Ollie finally came back with the cookies, her maid had brewed the sweetest tea in existence for them.

“Well, I always did pride myself with having good intuition, you know, but when Tommy came by my bakery, I realised - Shit, my sweet lady’s in trouble.” Alfie spoke, watching her cringe softly at the mention of the Shelby. “Asked him what the hell he was doin’ over at my place, instead of being there with you, and he said - Who would hurt you? Sabini wouldn’t, surely. There’s no person with more immunity than you, right?” he mimicked the man. “Thought I was gonna lose my mind, hun, hearing that. I was this close to beating him to death, yeah, nobody dares touch my sweet girl after all. He said some things about those fucking greasy wops, and it got me thinking - I already knew things were going to shit, and very fast, right, and I knew I had to make our exit as swift as possible - But when I heard you were all alone, with a bunch of sleazy fucks, my mind went crazy.” he gesticulated dramatically, before pinching her cheek playfully. “I promised Tommy Shelby a beating at some point, and I managed to land one good punch on him before coming to my darling’s rescue. Glad I got there just in time, but fuck, I’m so pissed - So fucking pissed you had to go through all that. I should’ve never let you go. Should’ve trusted my gut.” he grumbled, clearly angry at himself.

“Alfie.” she had an upset, pouting look on her face. “I’m sorry I let him kiss me. I wasn’t strong enough to fight him off.” she hung her head in shame. “If you hadn’t come when you did... I fear what he’d have done.”

“Y/N, lass, what the hell are you apologising for?!” he exclaimed, his hands immediately going to raise her face gently to look at him. “As if a weaponless woman could fight a grown ass man with a gun. If anything, I should be the one to apologise for not being fucking able to protect you as a man should. I thought playing the wife card, and the extra billing, would get that cheapskate fucker let go of you already. Fucking cunt. He’ll pay, I’ll make sure of that.”

But Y/N frantically shook her head. “I don’t care about that, Alfie. I don’t want revenge, and I don’t care what happens to any gangs, okay? I’m sorry, Alfie, I’m sorry I- I’m selfish, okay? I don’t want to do this anymore. I just - I can’t. I really can’t, you know? Always in the middle of danger, always in the middle of war -- I just want to go live out a happy, peaceful life, with you, and our dogs, and a shit load of seagulls to shoot whenever they wake us up with that annoying screech of theirs. And then -- Then, I wanna go have a good travel, maybe. Let’s -- Let’s go to the mountains, I heard it’s fun hiking. The forests are very pretty too. We can hide away from everyone, we’ve got enough money, don’t we - And if you wanted to, I told you, you can open up your own real bakery, and live perfectly comfortable with those earnings. Anything - Anything, just to get the hell out of this God-forsaken, war-riddled, decrepit, barren city, and away from this awful, exploiting people who care for nothing but their damn fucking business.” the way her eyes were gleaming with both hope and desperation shattered Alfie’s heart. “Can we do that, Alfie? Please, can we do that? Just the two of us -- Maybe Ollie and Annie too, if they wanna - And our dogs too - Just us, a nice, big family.”

Alfie’s very soul felt honeyed from her words of love, and her wish of staying together with him - And it was tempting too, taking Ollie and her maid with them, he had to admit. They would finally be living the god damn peaceful fucking life that they deserved. He had been dreaming during the day, and during the night, of a life spent together with her, all away from this shit city, away from the shit gang wars and what nots. He was exhausted, he wanted to let his guard down for once, and he knew he could do that with Y/N. He wanted to provide her a beautiful, comfortable life, a peaceful once - She’s never been to the beach, and he really wanted to show Margate to her. Just them, and the sound of the ocean waves breaking against the shore, walking barefoot into the wet sand and playing in the water.

Perhaps it was a little close for comfort to both France and London too - Maybe some day, they could go further north, further away from the capital. Perhaps they can even change their names, take on new identities, retire completely. Sure, he’ll still be taking care of his Jewish community, but he would stop the mafia dealings - Let the younger generations get themselves in trouble a hundred thousand times per minute, he was completely done for.

“Yeah, my little cookie, we can do that, and we’ll fucking do it, and very soon, yeah? Very soon, I promise you that. I’ll keep you safe, and comfortable, and happy. First, in Margate, and if we get bored, wherever the hell we want, a’ight? With Ollie and Annie if they wanna join, and with our spoiled dogs, ‘course.” he leaned in, capturing her lips into a sweet kiss.

“Alfie?” she called his name, her cheeks flustering lightly, unable to meet his eyes, despite the beautiful smile on her face.

“Yeah, meyn ketsele?” Y/N always blushed so hard whenever he’d call her his little kitten.

“Is the... Erhm... Wifey spot still open? I’d like to apply.” Alfie couldn’t help but start laughing mirthfully at her bashfulness, only to pull her into a loving embrace, peppering her face with kisses all over.

“Ikh hob dikh shtark lib - I’d love nothing more than to be your husband.” Y/N felt faint from all the suffocating love and affection she was receiving all at once, but she couldn’t help but melt to the sound of Alfie speaking in his native language, saying that he loves her so much, that she was the love of his life and what more. It was almost funny, how quickly he became smitten beyond repair for her, but he simply couldn’t help it. Women like her only came about once every thousands of years, and he was just so happy, just by seeing that shy smile of hers, or waking up to her in his arms. How could he ever let her go? 

Y/N wasn’t Birmingham’s Angel anymore, and like hell was she Britain’s Angel. She wasn’t an angel, she was a little wicked fairy, the sweetest lady there was, and any other overdosing sugary sweet and entirely embarrassing term of love that Alfie could ultimately generate from the top of his head, just to see her adorable blush, but by hell, he was feeling trapped and addicted to her magic, and he was never going to let go of his darling honey bunch lady.

And Alfie was going to make her the happiest woman alive, and their wedding was gonna be fucking biblical.

[call-sign-shark]

Bonus from the series Heaven in Your Eyes (Arthur Shelby x You):

Also, I was completely drunk when I made this. So, sorry for the nonsense.

[heavencanbeaprisontoo]

The Other Shelby Girl

Platonic!Shelby Siblings x reader

Headcanon/Imagine for a second Shelby Sister. Explores dynamics with each sibling based on of the reader were their older or younger sibling.

Warnings: Fluff, angst, mentions of war, violence, period-typical sexism, over-protective sibling drama.

Arthur

Older Sister:

You are the third most respected woman in Arthur’s life, which is greater than it sounds. First was Mum, then Polly. To be succeeded only by Polly in Arthur Shelby’s eyes is precious. He’s always looked up to you, but didn’t always show it. After the war, Arthur would come to rely on you heavily for emotional support. There were nights he would come to your home and no be able to speak. Where he would seem to turn back into a little boy, crying into your shoulder as he begs you not to speak of this to the others. When Arthur met Linda, you were one of the few to be supportive. You are Arthur’s greatest advocate, but his pride and Tommy’s influence make it hard to help him. When you have a family of your own, it’ll only make things harder. You often feel like you have to take sides. Still, you do what you think is best.

Younger Sister:

Depending on just how young you are, Arthur might try to put on like he’s your Dad. Arthur doesn’t always know how to talk to you. You’re just a young woman, he doesn’t feel like he can talk to you the way he does with John or Tommy. He wants to tease you and pick on you as he would with Finn, but he can’t. The moment you hit out your bottom lip and look like your feelings got hurt, Arthur is a flustered mess of a guilty brother. You might resist his attempts at being fatherly, or welcome them. Regardless, you can see that Arthur just wants you to know he’s a safe space for you. Maybe if you ask him nice enough, he’ll teach you how to draw horses like he used to. No matter how old you get, Arthur is the brother that still sees you as a little girl.

Thomas

Older Sister:

Before the war, Tommy only saw you as someone who nagged at him. The meddling older sister warning him away from throwing curses at people and fighting with the cops. After the war, you became something far more delicate than that. You became something like his conscience. That pleading voice that begged for peace and forgiveness that grows fainter every year. As adults, you swear sometimes he hates you. The way he disregards you and keeps you at arm’s length. In actuality, he’s only trying to avoid the shame your hopeful gaze gives him. It was you who tried to get the brothers to hide from the draft. It was you who told him getting involved in London affairs would be dangerous. You who told him not to accept anything from the Russians. You were always right. Always good. He also feels he must protect you because you know him when he was soft and weak. Aside from Polly, you’re the last person who ever heard him laugh.

Younger Sister:

He lumps you in with Ada without really meaning to. You and Ada are both younger, and are both girls. As such, you both have similar problems that have his head aching and his trigger finger itching. Two pretty girls tend to attract a lot of scummy men. You’re both so stubborn about not needing anything from him, which is bloody absurd. Of course you need his help. Whatever money you’re making doing legitimate work isn’t going to be enough to keep you safe. You have never gone on a single date without someone Peaky Blinder watching you. Arthur tries to give advice like he’s your dad, and Tommy drops rules on you like he’s your dad. He has absolutely said the phrase, “And where are you going dressed like that?” Tommy will kill your ex-boyfriends if asked, he already knows why you want them dead and he agrees. The only thing he likes more than you accepting his help is hearing you admit he was right.

John

Older Sister:

He is the little brother who reads your diary and eats your food after being told not to. As a kid, John was Hell on legs. As an adult, John is still Hell on legs but with children. Growing up, you spent a lot of time picking John up from police stations and headmaster offices. John stresses you out like he’s being bloody paid for it. But, he loves you dearly and you forgive him more often than you should. John has called you “Mum,” as a joke many times but it’s not quite a lie. As an adult, he is far more respectful towards you. He is one to bow his head when you lecture him about fatherhood and how his drinking is going to harm his children. John respects you enough to take his cap off when he enters your home. However, he’ll still gobble down any treats you’ve left out in the kitchen and have the audacity to say, “What?!” When you shout at him for it.

Younger Sister:

John will not only read your diary and eat your snacks, but he will loudly announce your crush the moment he finds out. Any reluctance Arthur has about picking on you is nonexistent in John. He is a fully grown man who is unafraid to tease you with schoolyard chants in public spaces. Has walked into your room while you were reading just to slap something off of your desk and run. John has spent so long as the younger brother, he has to get his kicks where he can. That said, nobody better say anything rude to you. Ever. One time, a mate of his simply repeated a mean name he had called you and John slugged him for it. Nobody is allowed to annoy you but him. John is obnoxious in an almost biblical sense, but he is the one to see you cry and ask: “Who did that to you.”

Ada

Older Sister:

Yet another sibling to boss her around. Excellent! Ada is one who would resist you trying to take care of her. She doesn’t want to hear your advice! She doesn’t need it! Until her first heartbreak and then she’s sobbing on your bed waiting for you to come home. Ada hates to feel dependent on others, but she does trust you. There’s something special about having a sister. You understand each other in a way your brothers never will. The fear that builds as a man walks a few yards behind you out in the streets at night. How every romance has that bitter taste as you think about all that you’ll lose if you were to get married. Ada gets her best advice from you, but you’re also her security. You were probably the one to start taking her to the movie theater. It’s likely that Ada imitates you subconsciously. When you got your hair bobbed, so did Ada. When you started wearing heels, so did Ada. She denies it, but it’s obvious that she follows your lead.

Younger Sister:

Might be a sad thing to say, but Ada didn’t think much of you until she had Karl. You were just this clinging little sister that everyone thought she was supposed to take care of. All you did was follow her about town and put your nose where it didn’t belong. Tommy probably found out about her and Freddie through you. You don’t mean to be annoying, you’re just lonely. Ada couldn’t see that until she had a child and a home away from Small Heath. The dynamic flips hard when Ada comes back to Small Heath. Ada is all about leading you in “the right direction,” and is very serious about your education. She essentially begs Tommy to set aside money for you to go to university when you express interest. You want to be in with the Peaky Blinders, though. Oh, God. You’re in your rebellious phase and Ada wants to shake you till you forget all about jazz and pretty boys with guns. You both adore each other, but you butt heads over where your life is going and who should have a say in what direction it goes.

Finn

Older Sister:

Between you, Polly and Ada, he’s almost got a mother. As a young boy, Finn has actually called for you as his mother by accident. It makes sense. You were often left in charge of him. To Finn, you are all that he knows. It’s often left to you to make sure he goes to school and stays out of trouble. You’ve spent many afternoons arguing with his teachers to give him a second chance. Finn needs that, someone to stick up for him. That doesn’t mean he always likes it though. Finn wants to be a gangster, like his older brothers. You want him to do literally anything but that. When Tommy, Arthur, and John, pick on him too much you are the one to back Finn up. He used to like it… until he was roughly twelve. What used to be you coming to his rescue has become you inadvertently humiliating him. You try to back off, but Finn makes poor choices for himself which require you to come save him. Therefore, the cycle continues.

Younger Sister:

You are the only one beneath him in the Shelby Family Pecking Order, and he lives for it. When Finn has a bad day, he takes it out on you. Why not? It isn’t like he had anyone else he can push around and be the boss of. So, he’ll cut your dolls’ hair, call you names, and make fun of the things you like. But only if there’s other boys who can see him do it. When he goes too far and you cry, he has to answer to all of your siblings and Polly. Finn picks on you to soothe his own ego. When it’s just you and Finn, he’s very quiet. You two can spend hours not talking but be perfectly happy. Finn likes to turn on the radio and just sit, listening to music or the results of a boxing match. Sometimes, he vents to you about how Tommy wouldn’t let him do this or do that. You always listen to him. Finn usually takes these quiet times to apologize for past pranks or insults. You always forgive him. It’s odd to you how your accepting of his apology seldom puts him in a better mood. Truth is, he’s very jealous of you.

[blakeswritingimagines]

You cup their face

Thomas: He would be surprised at first, but he would lean into your hand and look deeply into your eyes. He would see your love for him and return it; the touch is tender and loving; it makes him feel warm and calm. He would enjoy the intimacy of the moment, soaking in the affection and holding it close in his heart forever.

Arthur: He would be surprised at first, as it's not something he ever expected from anyone. However, he would smile and let his partner cup his face, happy to receive the affection. He might even close his eyes for a moment, allowing himself to enjoy the closeness. As the moment lingered, he would open his eyes and look directly into yours, searching for reassurance that you were both having a meaningful, loving moment.

John: He would react by cupping your face as well, a sign of closeness and affection, while he gazes into your eyes with a sincere smile. He can see the love and trust that you have for him, which makes him feel at ease around you, and he wants to repay that trust with more affection, more closeness, more love.

Ada: She would be stunned and overwhelmed with emotion and joy if her partner cupped her cheek with any sign of affection. With a small squeal and a smile, she would lean into your touch and press her cheek into your palm gently.

Finn: He would be surprised at the sudden closeness and caressing of his face. It would spark a blush, as he is not used to such physical affection. However, he would let you continue for a moment, before breaking in to ask, "Um, do you need something?"

Polly: She gasps with delight as her partner gently cups her face in her palm, your touch sending a shiver up her spine. She leans into her partner's touch, savoring the closeness of your body and the sensation of your touch. She closes her eyes, breathing in deeply as she lets herself become consumed in the moment. She opens her eyes again, locking eyes with you and smiling softly, expressing appreciation for your attention and affection.

Micheal: He's a little surprised by your touch, but it's not exactly unwelcome. He smiles at you in appreciation and lets you hold his face for a moment, enjoying the intimacy of these moments you both spend together.

Isiah: He'd probably be surprised, as it's not something he's used to. But he'd be excited and honored that someone would do that to him, and he'd want to show that the only way he knew how: by giving you the most loving embrace possible. With how close it'd get your faces, he'd also use the opportunity to tell you how much you mean to him.

Bonnie: He would immediately feel safe and protected. He would lean into your touch and smile, feeling warm and secure in your presence. It would feel like your shielding him from the world, and he would want to return the favor by wrapping his arms around you and showing you affection.

Alfie: If his partner cupped his face, he would be surprised and delighted. He's sensitive to physical touch and enjoys the feeling of closeness when someone he cares about touches him. He would look into your eyes and enjoy the warm, loving embrace. You are a source of comfort and he'd feel secure knowing that you're there for him.

[skyeeuphixia]

𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚗 𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚋𝚢 // 𝚑𝚘𝚠 𝚍𝚘 𝚒 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚐𝚘𝚘𝚍𝚋𝚢𝚎?

finn shelby x sister oc (florence)

summary: in which finn is left forever broken

⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺

warning/s: blood, violence, death, grief, emotional distress

words: 1010

⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺

When Finn and Florence Shelby were born, they instantly became the pride and joy of their families lives. They were loved by and doted on by their older siblings, the two of them could get away with close to anything, even Tommy would crack when he watched as his baby sister looked up at him with her big blue eyes that matched his so perfectly.

Despite each of them having particularly close relationships to different older siblings, Florence being especially close to Tommy, and Finn close to Ada, no one could deny the bond the two held with one another, they all saw it from the day that they were born and the two of them grabbed each other’s hands as they slept in their cot. Being twins they were connected on a deeper level than normal siblings. Aunt Polly pointed it out days after their birth. If Florence cried, Finn would cry. If Finn was happy, Florence was happy.

“They can feel each other’s feelings” she claimed.

For a while, the other Shelby’s brushed off their eccentric Aunt, they were babies reacting to the world around them, of course one would start crying if a baby started screaming in their ear. But as they grew older, their Aunts words became truer and truer. The twins would occasionally finish each other’s sentences, or say things at the same time, they could predict the others feelings even when they weren’t around each other. They couldn’t feel the others pain, but if Finn was in pain, physical or emotional, Florence knew, and vice versa.

They never provided much explanation as to what it was they felt, they simply placed their hands on their hearts stating that ‘they could feel each other’.

“Gypsy twin magic” is what they called it.

As the twins grew older, their differences emerged. Finn was street smart, Florence was book smart. Finn wanted a dog, Florence preferred a cat. Finn was eager to be more involved in the business, Florence wanted to be involved with business as little as possible. But despite their differences, they were just as close as when they were children. At 16 years old, they had never spent more than 24 hours away from each other. You would never see one twin without the other and if you did, something was likely very wrong, especially with recent events. Ever since Tommy’s wife, Grace, had died and things had been getting more tense against the Changretta’s, the twins had been ordered to never leave each other’s side and to protect one another, which they didn’t need to be told twice.

However it made moments like this more frustrating. Family meetings had to take place somewhere different every time they were held, it lowered the risk of the Changretta’s targeting them all at once, as they wouldn’t know where they are, Florence, ever the good girl of the family was often first to the meetings, and could almost always guess when Finn would come crashing through the door, panting dramatically as if he had sprinted a 5k. But now, the family had to wait for the two of them to arrive at the Garrison together. And Tommy was getting impatient.

“They should have been here by now,” Tommy says as he paces the room, more on edge than ever.

“’ave a bit of patience Tommy.” Arthur calls out, already half way finished a glass of whisky, “They’ll be in ‘ere any moment, Flo dragging Finn by the ear, scolding ‘im for making her later,”

Their aunt however was less convinced. She was good at sensing when things were wrong, and the pit in her stomach was growing more and more as the twins refused to appear, “Somethings not right,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Then, as if summoned by the collective fears of his family, Finn stumbled through the door. His face was deathly pale, eyes void of any emotion other than pure shock, but most significantly, in his arms, he was carrying Florence’s lifeless form. Her skin was as pale as ever, and she was drenched in blood from a bullet wound in her forehead, that was staining Finn’s white shirt.

Finn had barely processed what happened, he remembered hearing a gunshot, running to where he knew his sister was, and shooting his own gun in anger, that was all he could remember, but hearing the horrified gasps from his family, everything in his brain clicked. He didn’t hear himself scream, or the pain in his knees as he dropped to the floor, all he could do was sob as he desperately clutched his sister and held her close to him, desperately willing for her to wake up and end this nightmare.

The rest of the Shelby’s watched the scene in horror. Ada was sobbing into Johns side, as he held onto her burying his face into her hair to hide his own tears. Arthurs fists were clenched in fury, hardly being able to keep himself from smashing everything in the garrison.

Tommy’s ever cold and distant look had contorted into anguish at the loss of the sister he held so dear, “Not Flo…” he whispers, a quiet plea to whatever higher power there was to give her back to him.

Aunt Polly was the only one who could will herself to move over to the twins, kneeling down next to Finn, holding as much as he’d let her and placing a gentle kiss on the crown of his head, trying to hold herself together for him.

“I only left her cause I forgot my cap,” he whispered, his voice shaky and laced with guilt and self-hatred, “I knew Poll…I knew something was wrong, I could feel it…here,” he said, as he pressed a trembling hand to his heart, his sisters blood staining a red handprint, “It felt like I was dying, and then it vanished…”

“She’s gone…I can’t feel her anymore,”

And the family knew, then and there, the twin flame had burnt out,

and Finn would never be the same.

⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺

(fin)

[xpiredcheeto]

Glass

(Not my gif)

word count

Reader stays out late and comes home injured.

Tommy Shelby x sister reader, Arthur Shelby x sister reader, Ada Shelby x sister reader

Warnings: Blood, injuries, blood, death, killing, cursing, reader gets attacked, mentions of cocaine, Arthur is sad and needs a hug very bad, mentions of prostitution. I think that's all. 

This takes place during season 2

word count:  2395

 This whole situation could have been avoided if you had decided to call it an early night and ignored your burning desire to stay awake and go to some pub in the middle of the night, but of course, being a Shelby, you decided to go out. 

You walked down the cold and dark alleyway leading to the building. The outside walls were cracking, paint was peeling from its edges. Just the place you were looking for. It was called The Red Lion. You walked up the brick steps of the pub, and the click of your shoes echoed in your mind. The mahogany door had a stained glass window depicting a fisherman. You had no idea what a pub called "The Red Lion" was doing by having an image of a fisherman as their window, but maybe they got it on sale. 

It was far away from the watchful eyes of Small Heath, away from your reputation. It freed you in a certain way. Unfortunately, being away from the negatives of your reputation also meant you were away from the protection it brought with it. Normally this was not an issue, but tonight was different. When you walked into the pub, everything became silent at once. All heads in the bar turned to face you. Maybe you were not as far from your reputation as you thought you were.  

"You think she's a spy?" one man asked another 

The old floors creaked under your footsteps. You approached the bartender to ask for your usual when a voice from behind confronted you. "Yer not allowed in our pub, little girl. Why don't you run on home?" 

You made note of his voice, he was Irish and he spoke with a level of arrogance like no one had ever told him "no" in his life. 

"Sorry, but I'm not going anywhere. I came here for a drink and I'm going to get it. If you would just leave me alone I could have my drink in peace and you won't have to worry about me."

You could tell by the look on his face that he didn't like the answer you had given him. his brows furrowed and his expression contorted into one of annoyance. 

"I asked you to leave and when I ask you to do something, you better do it. Now, this is your last chance to leave before something happens that you won't like." He was trying to scare you and it wasn't working. You were going to hold your ground until this strange man left you alone. 

  "Look, I just told you that I'm not leaving so why don't you just leave me alone-" you were cut off when two hands grasped your shoulders. They dragged you backward off your chair and onto the wooden flooring of the bar. You hit the ground with a bang and waves of pain radiated up and down your spine. You let out a hiss of pain and the hands grabbed you again. This time they angled you toward a glass table before you could process what had happened. Your body was thrown with such force you could not stop the trajectory of your body. You threw both arms out in front of your face to block the impact of the table. Suddenly, waves of white-hot, stinging pain punctured your forearms. Blood trickled down your arms as you looked up. There were two men before you, the one that confronted you earlier and another. His face was withered, and his expression bore a constant snarl as he looked down at you. 

"Are you two fucking insane?! That's the Shelby girl, her brothers will fucking kill all of us!" the bartender was seething with rage. His face was a glowing red color. You glanced back at the men, they looked scared now. 

You looked down at the floor, the brown wood now tainted red with your blood. You heard movement behind you, rushed and frantic, then the slamming of the front door. You looked back up at the bartender, he threw a dishtowel at you. "For the bleeding," he said. You held the dirty rag to your left arm, leaving the right to bleed all over your clothes. 

You limped to the door, turned the handle, and walked out. A rush of frigid air hit you, cooling the thick rivets of blood streaming from your arm. The walk home wasn't too long but the pain was making it seem so much longer. You looked down at your white blouse, patches were saturated with red blood. The way it stuck to your skin was revolting, partially dried, and sticky. The metallic stench was almost overwhelming if not for the pain coursing through your body. And, oh God, it hurt. It wasn't just the pain from your arms, your back still ached from the fall, and it made each step agony.   

You were approaching Small Heath now. The smell was normally the first thing that hit you, but not tonight, now the only thing you could think of was blood and glass. The shards still embedded into your arms made each movement painful. You could see the house now, you were so close.

You walked up to the door, twisted the handle, and pulled. Awaiting you in the kitchen was Ada. Her eyes shot up, "Do you know how worried I was-" she cut herself off. "Oh my God, Y/N, what happened? Come here     I'll patch you up." Her face was laced with concern. "Sit down, I'll get the bandages." She got up and move to the bathroom, you could hear her rummaging around in the cabinets. Glancing at your arms, you saw the rag was saturated with blood.

Behind you, you heard the door opening, then a loud gasp. It was Arthur. "Jesus Christ, who the fuck did this to you?" he was next to you now, looking at your arms. You responded, "I don't exactly know who it was. There were two of them, but I don't know what I did to upset them that much."

  Ada returned from the bathroom with her hands full of bandages and a pair of tweezers. Arthur looked relieved to see her. She acknowledged Arthur and started speaking "I found the bandages," she held up the pair of tweezers, "and these are for the glass." She sat down next to you. "How did this happen?" she asked again. 

"I got thrown through a table." You replied. Arthur let out a sigh of anger. Ada picked up her tweezers and looked up at your face. "This might hurt so prepare yourself." The tweezers grasped at a piece of glass and you let out a hiss. Arthur noticed and tried to calm you. "Shh, it's alright, it's alright." he sounded more like he was trying to convince himself of the fact. The door opened once more. All three of you turned your heads, Tommy was standing in the doorway with a look of confusion burned onto his features.   He took a step towards you and spoke. "What the fuck happened?"  

"She got thrown through a fucking table, Tom," Arthur responded for you. 

"What the fuck do you mean she got thrown through a table?! Who the fuck threw her through a table?" You moved to answer but let out a pained gasp when Ada pulled one of the shards out. Arthur looked back at you and moved his hand to rub up and down your back. 

"I-oh fuck, I don't know who it was. They were Irish and in a pub called The Red Lion. I don't even know what I did to offend them so much." you spoke through gritted teeth.

Arthur looked at Tommy, they were going to trash the pub later and find the men that did this, but first, they needed to make sure you were going to be alright. Ada moved to another shard, this one came out easier than the last, but the pain was still significant. And, oh god, you were crying now. 

"This really fucking hurts." you sobbed out. Arthur responded to you, "I know, love. I swear I'm gonna kill everyone that hurts you. I-I'll fucking kill the people that did this." He looked like he was about to cry too. Ada looked up from her work to inform you she was almost done removing the glass, just one more to go. You looked at Tommy, he had moved and was now sitting on a chair across the kitchen. He shot Arthur a glance and said "Tomorrow, brother."

Ada was getting ready to pull the final one out now, it was located near your left wrist. At this point, you were struggling to keep your eyes open, the blood loss made you dizzy and lightheaded. She grasped it with her tweezers and pulled. Your eyes shot open and you let out a scream of pain. Arthur grabbed your right hand and rested his head on the corner of your neck. It was the closest he could get to hugging you at this moment.

"Alright love, the painful part is over, all I have to do now is wrap them up." Her voice always seemed to soothe you. She placed the edge of the bandage in your palm and wrapped it around a few times. She then moved it down to loop around your thumb before wrapping it around your forearm. She repeated the process on your other arm. You looked over at Tommy, he stared forward in a silent rage.

"I'm gonna go to bed now." You moved to get up. Tommy moved from his chair, "No, love, you shouldn't be walking. I'll carry you to bed, Alright?" You nodded and he walked over, he looped one arm under your knees and one beneath your back. He lifted you and carried you up the stairs, he pushed the door open with his side and laid you on the bed. He went to your dresser and grabbed a nightgown for you. He laid it on the bed for you to put on. He turned to leave the room, "Thank you." 

"You don't need to thank me, love." He placed a soft kiss on the crown of your head before turning and leaving the room. You unbuttoned the now red blouse you were wearing and pulled it off, it dragged on your arms sending pain blooming through them. You let out a small hiss and let it drop to the floor. You reach down and slid your bottoms off, also leaving them on the floor. You pulled the nightgown over your head and down the rest of your body, you moved to get under the covers when you heard a knock at the door followed by a voice. You sat up. "Hello, can I come in? If you don't want me to that's fine... I just don't want you to be alone right now." It was Arthur.

"Yeah, come in."

The door opened with a creak and he walked over to you. He gently grabbed you in his arms and held you. "I'm sorry I couldn't protect you. I...I don't ever want you getting hurt and I wish I was there so I could keep you safe." he paused. "Can I stay in here tonight, so I can make sure you're safe?" he looked at you, awaiting your response.

"Yes, Arthur, you can stay in here tonight." 

"Alright, love. I'll sit in the chair over there." He pointed to the chair across your room next to your fireplace. "No, Arthur. You can sleep in bed with me. I don't mind, I'd feel safer that way anyways." He looked surprised, but he walked over to your bed and slid in next to you. He adjusted his position next to you and said, "Alright, love, go to sleep now. You need your rest."  

He looped his arms around you in a protective hug. He held you tight to his chest as if you would disappear if he let go. "Please don't scare me like that again," he spoke as if he was still scared that you were seriously injured. "I don't know what id do if I lost you." his voice was breaking, and you could tell he was holding back tears. You could tell he wanted to say more, to tell you he wouldn't be able to live with himself knowing he wasn't there to keep you safe. He didn't tell you he would blame himself for the rest of his life if you died and how he already gets nightmares about that exact scenario. Instead, he held you tighter and pushed his face into the crook of his neck. You could feel his tears run down your shoulder like shiny pearls. You felt like crying too. 

"Oh, Arthur. I would never leave you like that. I'm so sorry I made you worry about me." You turned around so you could wrap your arms around him, wincing slightly when the sheets rubbed against the bandages. "It's alright, love. It's not your fault. It's those fucking men that hurt you. I'll find 'em, make sure they never hurt you again." 

"It's alright, Arthur. They can't hurt me now." You made your voice as soft as possible in an attempt to calm him. 

"I know, love. I know," he paused. "Just...If you want a drink, go to The Garrison. Won't be mad as long as you don't end up like me. Oh god, please don't end up like me... I'm sorry. I'm keeping you up. Go to sleep now, you need rest." 

"It's Okay, Arthur. You don't need to apologize, and you need to stop insulting yourself."  He nodded into your neck. You shut your eyes and melted into the darkness behind your eyelids. You savored the feeling of protection that your brother gave you, it made you feel like you were safe from anything while you were in his arms. And you most likely were, he would do anything to keep you safe, even if that meant bashing someone's head in with a glass ashtray. Even if that meant killing fathers and sons, none of it was as important as keeping you safe. You drifted into the abyss of sleep in his arms, knowing that none of your fears would be able to harm you.

[red-write-hand]

Idk what this could be used for but characters trying to play poker and someone doesn’t understand it so they stop and try to teach said character the rules and they pretend to understand because it makes everyone else happy to play.

absolutely luv <3

Poker Face

paring -> thomas shelby x reader

warnings -> nothing much, just some shelby fluff

word count -> 250

The private room at the Garrison was currently occupied by the Shelby’s doing an array of different activities. Ada and Esme were talking politics, Finn was darning the edge of his cap, Polly was drinking and smoking while presiding over everything. The three brothers had started to play poker and Tommy had asked his wife if she had ever played poker, she had said yes so they had dealt her in.

“Alright love, you’re gonna-“ He could see that her eyes were slightly glazed over. His cornflower eyes met hers and she shook her head.

“Sorry darling, no one’s really really taught me how to play and I’m rather tired.” She leaned into his form that was behind her, letting her head loll against his chest. His expression softened and wrapped his free hand, that wasn’t braced against the table, around her cards, playing the hand for her. A small kiss was planted on his jaw and the mood was normal again.

Slowly, as he kept showing her how to play, she was learning. The whole family were throwing out tips on how to play to get the best possible outcome, how to keep a poker face, when to fake a poker face, what to play at what time. Tommy’s smile was broad and genuine. Everyone being accepting of his darling’s inexperience. He started to kiss her hair as they played. She let out a small hum of happiness, no, not happiness, complete serenity. She was happy. Completely and utterly.

(pls do tell me if i made any grammar mistakes, thanks yall)