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writers-hes · 9 months

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Toy Horses Outside the Brothel

You always knew Tommy as the cheerful boy who took care of you. He always knew you as the smart girl that he visited by the docks. The daughter of a prostitute, the son of a deadbeat father; a soldier who protected his country; a whore who protected him; a gangster who controlled Brimingham; and now, a wife. War changes people, you just didn't realize that war could change you both. (angst, depictions of abuse, poverty, prostitution, canon-typical themes, death, war, time jumps)

A/N: This is dedicated to @runnning-outof-time ! Thank you for giving me guidelines and for reading my work before anybody else did. You’re amazing and I wish I could write Tommy as good as you do.

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BIRMINGHAM, 1900:

Tommy first met her when his father took him to the docks. Arthur Shelby Sr. told impressionable young Tommy that there were kids he could play with by the docks. Tommy agreed, wanting to impress his father. On the way there, right outside of what looked like a house with many rooms, was her.

You were lonely and something in Tommy told him to play with you instead. Besides, the boys were too big around the docks. Arthur Shelby left him right outside the establishment and threw a shilling to you. You picked it up, stuffed it in your pocket, and looked at him.

He smiled at you widely, a tooth missing from his mouth and extended his hand towards you.

“I’m Tommy,” he said. You reciprocate the gesture, telling him your name and shaking his hand. You were more reserved, Tommy noticed. He was so used to the ruckus in their house that he expected every child to be as energetic as them. “Why did my father give you money?”

“He wants me to play with you while he’s inside,” you said. “I don’t have many toys but…I do have this,” you said, showing him your wooden horse toy. They were your prized possession, one of the few gifts that your father sent when he promised the world to your mother.

“Oh! I love horses,” he said. “Do you? I like watching horses,”

“Yes,” you replied. “My mother said that my father owned many. I’ve never met him though. Where do you watch horses?”

“That’s alright. Fathers hit kids. See?” he said, showing you a bruise on his side quickly. “My mother puts ice on it and it tickles. We watch it in the races. My mum takes me for my birthdays. She usednto ride a white horse before. She told me. Do you go to school?”

“No,” you shook your head. “But my mum taught me how to read and how to write. Sometimes, Big Johnny teaches me arithmetic. One plus one equals two,”

“You’re smart. Who’s Big Johnny?”

You hummed, making the wooden horse gallop on the murky ground. People in the house all told you that you were. If only poor Mary Magdalene had the means to send you to school. If only. You stop your movements and move your toy towards Tommy.

“Here,” you said. “Big Johnny is the man who runs this place. He’s kind,”

“You won’t have a toy,” he replied.

“It’s okay. I have more but they’re in my mama’s room. My father sent them. Sorry if it’s dirty,”

“Thanks,” he said. It’s the first time anyone has ever given him something without asking for it. He keeps it with him; keeps the memory of a girl who watched him intently while he played with a toy horse. That’s why when his father exited the house, with less money in his pocket, Tommy asked if he could come again next time.

When the house closed, you ran to your mother’s room. You usually had to stay out until five in the morning, sleeping on the sacks right in front of the brothel until your mother woke you up. She’s been seeing less men these days…always cooped up in her room, asking for you. She didn’t mind if you stained her bed with sweat and grease. She’d ask how your day was and you told him about Tommy, the boy you met earlier.

“I’m glad you have a friend,” she coughed into her white handkerchief. The blood stain was normal now. You were worried at first, but your mother told you to never tell anyone. You just never knew how serious it all was when you slipped once. You were talking to Big Johnny; he was teaching you how to subtract.

“If I help you, are you going to pay me?” you asked, perched on his lap. He had been the only father figure in your life. He’d help your mum surprise you for your birthdays and give you some money every now and then.

“Pay you? You’re robbing me,” he kids. “What do you need the money for?”

“I’m planning to buy mum a present. A nice handkerchief,” you said. “The one she has has blood—“

“What is it, bug?” he asked, eyebrows furrowing.

“Nothing,” you shrugged, smiling sickly sweet.

“You have to tell me,” he replied. “It’s your—your safety,”

It was your turn to look confused.

“But mum told me to never tell anyone,” you whispered, heart racing. What did he mean by it? “Why would I not be safe? I’m safe. I have mum with me,”

Big Johnny ran his hand through his hair, then his chin. You knew that it was a sign of his agitation, so you relented.

“You can’t tell anyone,” you whispered. “But mum has been coughing up blood for a while. She said it’s fine. You won’t take her from me right, Johnny?”

“Fuck, kid,” he sighed, stressed at the sudden turn out of events. “No more arithmetic today, okay? I’ll go talk to your mum. Just go outside or play or whatever,”

“Is everything okay?” you asked, panic rising in your throat. It constricts while you keep yourself from crying. “Mum will be so mad at me! Please don’t tell on me,”

“Do you know why she’s coughing up blood?” he asked, his voice serious. He knew that you had to be talked to in his “adult voice” for you to listen. You knew that he needed to be stern for you to listen.

“N-no…” your hair falls messily as you shake your head, picking on your nail beds.

“She’s sick, bug,” he said. “If we don’t do anything about it, you could get sick too. The two of you might die,” he explained. “Look, kid…you have a bright future ahead of you, alright?”

“What will you do?” you asked. “You can’t take her from me! Please, Johnny. My mum is all I have,” you cried, tears started flowing once the first one dropped.

Johnny couldn’t do anything else. He relented but locked your mother in her room. Whenever you went in, he made sure you had some face mask on to protect yourself. You only saw her for a few minutes every day. Parting her was painful and Johnny had to console you while you cried. He gave up his bunk and slept in his workspace so you won’t have to sleep with your mum.

A week later, your mum died of lung cancer.

It was too late, the doctor explained. Johnny let you stay in his bunk, never mind the fact that he had no space for himself now. He didn’t mind. You were his top priority. How is he going to raise a child in a brothel?

Your mother always told you that as long as you were with her, you would never be lonely. There was no burial, just her body being thrown and burned with the rest of Birmingham’s garbage. It made you wonder what your body would be like dead. You decided to never end up like her, one way or another you were getting out.

Tommy continued to visit you, but he knew that you were different now. It has only been a week and you’ve grown up so fast. When he arrived, a box of your toy horses was prepared for him.

“What’s this for?” he asked, eyes brightening up at the sight of the box. His father threw a shilling your way again.

“It’s for you. I don’t want to play anymore,” you said. “I kept one white horse for me but you can have them.”

“Why not?” he asked, galloping the toy you gave him last week. “Thank you. I don’t have my own. I always have to share with Arthur, John and Ada.”

“My mom died…you were my first friend and you never met her,” you said, tears falling on the ground. “I’ve been living in Big Johnny’s room,”

“I’m sorry for your loss,” he said. “My Aunt Pol says that friends are there for each other. I’m…I’m your friend,”

You smiled a teary smile, appreciating the underlying message behind his words. He’ll be there for you. But until when?

BIRMINGHAM, 1905

Fifteen, you were fifteen. You haven’t even turned fifteen for a week and you were working. The owner of the house told Big Johnny that if you wanted to keep living there, you would have to work too. Johnny had no place for himself, no house—his money all went to you. Your clothes, the books you’ve read, the food you ate. He'll get you a cake with a candle along with a pound for special occasions. If you were lucky, some of the girls would give you something. Tommy’s dad stopped coming and so was the shilling you got.

He stayed, though. He’d talk to you about school and how he wanted to leave.

“You’re lucky you’re in school,” you said, watching Tommy smoke a cigarette. You were never a fan if them, seeing as your mother died of fucking lung cancer. “You have to stay,”

“I’m not built for it though. They’re all so boring,” he said, blowing the smoke away. “If only I could work like you. Why are you dressed so nicely anyway?”

“The owner told me to work,” you shrugged, pulling the strap of your dress back on your shoulder. “Johnny asked the boss if I could help him with the girls and management, but he said no. Wanted me to work because it will bring more money in,” you bitterly replied. “I want to go to school but the fucking boss wanted me to present myself as a Cherry Girl. You wanna know what that is?”

“What?”

“A fucking virgin.” you shrugged. “Said many men will pay for someone like me. Today’s my first night and Johnny cried a little bit when he saw me. I’d kill and die to go to school, Tom.”

“Shit, love, I’m sorry. I was being insensitive,” he offered. “Hm, maybe you’ll bag one rich man you know? Some rich bloke from London and he’ll take you. Besides, at least you smell nice,”

“This shit is awful,” you countered, sighing. You blinked back the tears that threatened to spill. “Fuck, I said I wasn’t going to cry tonight.”

“Hey,” he said, sitting closer to you. He wraps your arm around you and lets you stay there. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I’ll stay in school and do well, okay? I’ll study so hard; I’ll take you out of here. Let you live in a mansion with lots of space to run in. Fuck, I’m sorry, love,”

“It’s not your fault, Tommy,” was your weak reply. “I’m just…I told myself that I would never be like my mother and now, I am,”

“You’re not her,” he whispered, tightening his arms around you.m, never mind if the grease and sweat of his clothes mixed with your perfume. “You’re not her.”

BIRMINGHAM, 1906

“Fuck, Tom. You can’t stay here while I’m working,” you scolded. You were lying, you appreciated the fact that Tommy was here. He’ll wait until you finish your shift, until you meet your quota. It was always quick, though. You had a rich patron that covered your every living expense.

“My patron’s coming,” you told him, and he tenses. He remembered the way you cried to him after your first ever shift last year. How some old fuck didn’t even bother. He finished and threw you some coins. He remembered his rage when you told him about this new guy. He’s quite scary but he pays the most, you said. “He doesn’t like seeing me with other men,”

“I’m a man now?” he quips, a smirk on his lips. “It’s not like I can afford it. I’m broke. Besides, I’ll act like a bodyguard, yeah? All I ask for payment is a day out with you. Aunt Poll is cooking something on Sunday. Want you to eat something that’s not whatever is being cooked here. We can go on a picnic. I met a girl who worked at this mansion, and they have lots of flowers in the garden. Shit you’ll like,”

You offered him a slight smile, nodding.

“Will your aunt be okay with…me eating your food?” you asked. Tommy took notice of how insecurity laced your voice. His suggestions of meeting his family have always been met with resistance. He understood. Although Polly has been insisting on meeting the girl he’s been spending his time with, he couldn’t risk his father recognising you and then, treating you like trash.

“Of course. She’s been more annoying. Told my mum about the girl I’m seeing,” he said. “I’ll be the first boy to take you out, hm?”

“Shut up,” was your only reply.

Sunday comes and you asked your boss for a day off.

That day, Tommy took you to the garden with Polly’s chicken stew and his mum’s fig cake. Tommy didn’t let you work, he set down the food and opened the containers.

“The best meal you’ll ever have,” he said while you sat. “I should’ve done this earlier. What have you been eating?”

“I’m lucky enough to be fed. Johnny gets me some food out of the brothel sometimes.” you said. “Thanks for taking me here. I love it.”

“I knew it,” he said, spooning out your portion and giving it to you.

“I want to have a house with lots of flowers. Different coloured blooms all year round.” you said.

“The caretaker of the garden says that we can pick some flowers. Do you want to take some home?” he asked. You nodded, a flush on your face. How could someone not love him?

BIRMINGHAM, 1908

“How have you been my angel?” he asked, twirling your hair in between your fingers. “Can’t believe I missed you last week,” he mumbles, kissing your shoulder. You giggled. “I was in London and all I could think of was you,”

“I’ve never been to London,” you told him. “Are you going to take me there?” you asked, wide-eyed. He’s been your patron since you reached 18. He was quite younger than your usual customers. He always came to visit when you were seventeen but never looked at you. As if that made it better.

“You haven’t?” he asked. “I’ll take you there, Angel. I’ll show you the whole world. Hm?”

“You will?” you asked, faux excitement in your voice. He loved this; you knew. He loved that you were a fragile little bird in need of saving. He loved that you’d listen to him talk about his father. He’s the sappy kind. He liked to hold hands, talk, and make love. He’s paid you more than anyone else and gave you a hefty allowance. Big Johnny didn’t have to think about your safety anymore. “I want to go to the city! Buy everything that I see and just…breathe a different air,” you said.

“Fuck, baby, I’ll take you there and buy you everything you ever lay your eyes on. I’m not fucking around. I’ll take you there,”

“You will?” you asked. “I don’t like the idea of you leaving me. Did you know that? Sometimes, when you leave, I have to lock myself in my room and refuse everyone,” you lied. You locked yourself in because your quota was already met. You were just saying these things to keep him coming back. A little bit of pretending never hurt you. It meant a bigger tip, more money.

“Yeah?” he asked.

“Of course,” you said. “You’re my hero…”

Somehow, you didn’t find yourself lying when you told him. You felt dirty, you felt like your mother when she thought your father would give her the world. But Simon paid big money to have you alone for multiple nights a week. No other customers were to ask for services.

“I’m your hero, alright…you’re my little bird. I’m dead set on taking you with me to London. Once I get my inheritance, I’ll show you the world and get you out of these slums.��

BIRMINGHAM, 1909

“You don’t have to do this anymore,” Tommy said. You were well enough to have your own place somewhere near the docks now. Johnny had given you some furniture that the house wasn’t using anymore, helping you fix the tables and the chairs that you would be using. You didn’t have to live at the brothel anymore and it was all thanks to Simon.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Tommy,” you chuckled. “Do you like my place?” Tommy looked around, flowerpots littered your house.

“I’m serious.” he asked. “I’ll have you safe in Small Heath,”

“And my job? What will pay for this place? I finally have enough space for my flowers.” you asked. “I can’t just leave. Come on, you have to see the view on my balcony.”

You dragged Tommy’s hand to the balcony to show him the view. You were a little far from the docks now but from your balcony you can see it. The blue water, the usual chaos…you were smiling so freely, so beautifully. Tommy stills, unspoken words lingering in the air. You could realise it too…you’ve been realising it slowly. The world was in your hands. You could seize it if you wanted it. It fills Tommy with determination. It pumps through his veins, and it rings in his ears. Determination, consistency, and power. Three things to play with the world…three things that he’ll have. He could get you a bigger house. If he played right, he could have it all.

“This is why I got this place,” you said. “I mean, there were others but the view of the docks…I used to think everything about it was so ugly, you know? So grey, so evil…so grotesque but from the vantage point, everything is different,” a soft smile played on your lips when you let go of Tommy’s hand. He already missed your touch. “I can’t leave my job now because I wouldn’t have this,”

“I’ll work for it,” he says proudly.

“Tom, I know you’re not happy with how I earn money. Fuck, I’m not happy too. I hate that job. I know you hate it when I turn down your offer. But I have nothing else. You have to support your siblings. Don’t you get it? We’re all whores, Tom. We just sell different parts of ourselves. Mine just so happens to be my body.”

It enrages him and you could see it. See his face fall apart, how his jaw ticked.

“I’ll do it.” he said. “I’ll fucking do it. You think I’m fucking around when I tell you that I’ll protect you? I will. I’ll make a name for myself and protect you. I’ll fucking protect you; I swear on my life.”

“I know you will, Tom,” you said, inching closer. “But can’t you just be happy for me? This once?”

“We could add a little chair right here,” he relented. How could he ever tell you how much he hated himself for not being enough right now? “I’ll bring some of Polly’s flowers. You’d let me stay here?”

“Only if you’re being nice,”

“What if I’m too tired to make the trip back to Small Heath? Can I stay here?” he asked.

“Sure,” you shrugged. “But only if you have food for me or something,”

“Or something? You’re not letting me stay for free? I’m your best mate,” he chuckled. “I mooch off you all the time,”

“You have more than I do. It’s time for me to mooch off on you,”

“Yeah? Well, I want yours,” he said. “I’m glad though…that you don’t have to live there anymore. You’re safer here,”

“Thank you, Tom,” you smiled, sitting by the railing of your balcony. “I’m glad too.”

“I’ll make sure you’re protected,” he promises.

“How?”

“I’ll protect you.”

BIRMINGHAM, 1910

Tommy gave you the number of his telephone years ago. You were shaking, something bad had happened and you didn’t know who else to turn to. Big Johnny was too busy breaking up fights in the bar beside the brothel. You walked home shakily. Tommy called the brothel earlier to tell you that he couldn’t make it tonight because of some gang business. It was fine, of course. So, you went to the market to buy some supplies. You just didn’t know that he would be there.

You were waiting for someone to pick up the phone, biting your perfectly manicured nails.

“Who’s calling?” a woman asked from the other line. Her tone was snippy, and you knew she meant business.

“Hi,” you cleared your throat. “I’m looking for Tommy Shelby?”

“Who is this?” she asked, confused as to why a woman would suddenly call Tommy in such a manner. She was used to Tommy’s girls calling, an embarrassment usually hinted when they spoke. But this new girl had no shame.

“I’m a friend of Tommy’s,”

“Tommy has many girlfriends. You’re going to have to be specific,” she said, intrigued.

“Oh, of course,” you said. You told her your name. “Is he there?”

“Tommy!” you could hear her voice call. “Some girl is on the phone for you!”

“What, Poll?” he asked, scowling.

“Pick up the phone, Tom. Your friend is asking for you,” she said, passing the phone to him. She didn’t leave the room immediately, sitting on the nearby chair instead to listen in.

“Tommy Shelby,” he says, and you breathed a sigh of relief.

“Tommy,” you whispered. “He was there…he was there.”

“Who, love?” Tommy asked. Polly noticed how his voice softened, how his stance relaxed. “Do you need me there?”

“He was one of my customers before,” you forced out. “He was always…rude and rough,” you choked. “I hate this fucking job, Tommy. I fucking hate it and he treated me like an object today just because he paid for my services years ago,” you sobbed. “I’m sorry. I know you were busy but I fucking hate it,”

“Shh…it’s okay, love. It’s okay. I’m going over there, and you could tell me,” he said. “Will that be alright?”

“I—yes,” you nodded, wiping your tears hastily. “I got some of your favourite fruit from the market today. Didn’t know you have an expensive taste,”

He chuckled softly.

“I’ll see you, alright?” he asked. “Keep the doors locked. I have my copy,”

“Okay, Tommy. Stay safe for me?” you asked.

“Of course.” Tommy put down the phone until he heard you end the line. He sighed and went to go get his coat until he saw Polly with an eyebrow raised. “Fuck, I didn’t see you there,”

“Who would? You were too lovestruck to notice anything,” she teased. “That’s the girl you’ve been seeing?”

“We’re friends, Pol,” he clarified.

“She’s the girl from the docks, then?” she asked. Tommy nodded. “Fuck, that’s rough. She’s a whore,”

“Don’t,” he said, an edge to his voice. “Don’t call her that. I’m trying to build something for all of us, Pol. For her. She hates her job…she fucking hates it and I can’t do anything about it,”

“You don’t have to save her, Tom. You can’t save everyone,” she said but she knew that Tommy was stubborn. Everything that she’ll say will fall on deaf ears.

“It’s all her,” he said, clearing his throat. “I’ll get her out of there if it’s the last thing I do.”

The walk to your place was unnerving. Thoughts swarmed in his head. If he only had it in him to murder the man who dared to look at you. He’s never made peace with how you earned your money, but he still happily showed up after every shift. You never talk about your customers, and he didn’t like to ask.

“Tommy, you’re here,” you greeted. He could see how swollen your eyes were; how red they were.

“Of course, I am,” he replied. “Are you okay?” He hangs his coat on the coat rack and walks towards the couch where you were seated.

“I am now,” you sniffed. “I’m sorry for making you worry but this job…people reduce me to such an object. I didn’t even know his name, you know?”

“I know, love.” he said, his heart beating inside his chest. What was it? What was the beating?

“Tommy, I’m going to make a request. It’s absurd and we haven’t done it yet…”

“What?” he whispered, unsure.

“Can-can you hold me?” you asked. “You don’t have to but…I have no semblance of what it’s like to be loved anymore. I want to pretend. At least for tonight, somebody out there loves me.”

“You don’t have to pretend,” he said. “You’re my friend. Of course, I love you.”

You only smiled, snuggling closer to Tommy. You were his friend…only a friend. How else would he look at you differently? You still had to pretend because the love that he was willing to give was not the love that you were looking for.

BIRMINGHAM, 1911

Multiple knocks on your door woke you up. Someone was screaming your name outside and you felt yourself panic. You took the gun that Tommy gifted you last year and crept down the stairs. You opened the door slowly to reveal two men—one older and one younger. The younger one had a smirk playing on his lips while the other looked panicked.

“Who are you?” you asked, tightening the gun behind your back.

“Arthur Shelby,” the one with the beard replied. You nodded. “I’m Tommy’s older brother. This is John,”

“Where…where’s Tommy?”

“He asked us to come get you,” John replied. “We mean no harm.”

“What happened to him?” you asked. “Come in,”

The brothers entered your house and watched you lay your gun on the table. An unspoken threat.

“Tommy’s not in a good place,” Arthur replied. “Well, he’s asking for you. He’s having these…episodes. I don’t fucking know what thr fuck they’re called but sometimes, he calls for you when he shuts down,”

“It's even worse today,” John added. “Our mother died,”

“Oh, shit. I’m sorry,” you said, offering a small smile. “Will you let me dress better? I’ll come with you,”

You met the brothers outside of your house, your gun secured on your skirt.

“Are you Tommy’s whore?” John asked as you walked.

“John!”

“I’m not his fucking whore,”

“So, why is he always at the brothel by the docks?” he pressed.

“We met when we were kids. Your dad used to visit the brothel with him,” you shrugged. “I never understood why your father took him there all the time. It’s a dangerous place,”

“Why were you there?”

“My mother worked there. I was born there. I grew up there,” you shrugged. “Tommy was my only friend growing up. Your father stopped coming but Tommy still managed to show up,”

“I see,” Arthur replied. “You’re the girl who gave him toy horses when we were kids, then. He never let us touch them. Even now, he has them lined up on his wall,”

“Yeah, I was. I gave it to him a week after my mother died,” you recalled.

“I’m sorry for calling you his whore,” John said. He realised now that your relationship with Tommy was deeper. It was more meaningful than he realised.

“It’s okay,” you let out a small smile. “It’s a fair assumption,”

Minutes of silence passed by, and your group stopped in Watery Lane. You’ve never been in his house before; you never had the time to do so. You were also quite ashamed to show yourself. How could you prove that you weren’t after Tommy’s money if that's exactly what you are after men?

The door of the house opens, and you assume it was Polly. The same woman who you talked to on the telephone before.

“He’s in his room upstairs. Last door to the left,” she said.

“Thank you,” you rushed to where Tommy was. You didn’t bother to stay and eavesdrop. You were there for Tommy. You knocked on his door slightly.

“Stay the fuck away from my door or I will kill you,” he shouted. You cracked the door open slightly.

“It’s me, Tom,” you said. He rose from his bed and rushed towards you, flinging his arms around you. He pulled you closer. “Hi,”

“She’s dead,” he murmurs against your hair. “My mum’s dead. My dad left. I didn’t even like him, you know? He always hit the three of us. I thought it would be better if he just fucking left but my mum died because he left. Now, I don’t have her.”

“I’m so sorry, Tommy,” you said. You knew he was still struggling after his father left many months ago. He was shaking in your arms, trying to grasp you tightly. Trying to be closer. “I’m so sorry,”

“I…I don’t know what to do,” he said. “You never got to meet her. She’d love you; you know?”

“That makes us even,” you saw a small smile on his lips. “I’m here now, Tom. You could rest,”

“You’ll still be here when I wake up?” he asked meekly, like a child.

“I’ll be here,” you nod, caressing his cheek softly. He nods, yawning after he evened out his breathing.

“Shit, love. I’m so tired,” he yawned again. “Let’s both go to sleep. We deserve it. I’ll see you when I’m awake?” he asked, adjusting your position on his small bed.

“I’ll see you,” you confirmed, snuggling closer to him.

“Tommy’s playing a dangerous game,” Polly commented from downstairs. It has been met with no resistance.

BIRMINGHAM, 1914

“Good afternoon, Pol,” you smiled. You were invited for Sunday dinner, and you decided to bring cake from the bakery that Tommy liked. You’ve only met them last year, but you’ve become such an integral part of their family that people knew you were closely associated with them. Even Simon.

“Oh, you didn’t have to bring cake,” she said. “We’d rather you spend it somewhere,”

“It’s alright,” you said. “I wanted to do something nice,”

“Keeping Tommy levelheaded is nice enough. Seriously, what did you do?” Ada asked, chopping the vegetables. She was reluctant at first but now, she couldn’t go a week without ranting to you. Girls’ night is what she called them.

“I don’t know,” you chuckled. “May I help?”

“If you could kindly chop the carrots, please,” Polly said. You set yourself and rolled your sleeves, peeling the carrots first. “Tommy and the boys went out for a while. They said it was some business with the Blinders. While they’re out, how are you?”

“Oh,” you nodded. “Me?”

“Of course. Ada has been talking my ear off about some guy she’s so secretive about,” she scoffed.

“I’ve been working less,” you confessed. “I’m helping out on the counter. Helping Big Johnny with the money and the accounts. I work a few times a week now. Simon’s been frequenting the brothel and well, you know what Simon does. It helps that he doesn’t stay long. The brothel pays me for my assistance. I can buy you cake every week now,”

“Don’t do that. Finn will be spoiled rotten,” Ada says. “Besides, you deserve nice things for yourself, you know,”

“I know but I can’t help it,” you said with a soft smile. “I like doing nice things for you,”

The boys soon come through the door, spilling with laughter. Tommy makes a beeline towards you as soon as he spots you.

“How was the afternoon?” you asked, bumping your hips with him.

“It was good,” he said. “Finn got into a fight with some kids, and we had to deal with it.”

“Is Finn okay? I brought cake.”

“Just a bruised ego,” he chuckled. My favourite?”

“Of course,” you said. “But let’s pretend that it’s for Finn, alright?”

“It’s always for Finn,” he groans. “He has you wrapped around his finger,”

“He does. He’s such a charming kid,” you praised. “Where is he, anyway?”

“Taking a bath before dinner. You have me for now,” Tommy said. “Can I sleep at your house later?” he asks in a softer tone. He’s been sleeping at your place ever since last year. He said you make him sleep better.

“You know it’s never a problem,” you said. His presence made you feel safe. He made you feel secure. “Will we leave together?”

“Yes. I’d like to sleep as soon as possible,” he says, dropping his forhead on your shoulder. You only chuckled. “I’m so tired. So, so tired,”

“Who are they fooling?” Ada asked in whispers. “Are we sure they’re best mates?”

“They’ve insisted on it for years,” Arthur shrugged. “I don’t think they’re aware,”

“I don’t think so either,” John says. “But Tommy throws a fit whenever she has to meet that Simon prick. Calls him a rich bastard.”

“He is a rich bastard,” Ada nodded. “She says he just came into his inheritance. Ammunitions,”

“Shit. She hit the jackpot, then,” John commented. “Wonder how that’s gonna go?”

“There’s nothing to wonder, John,” Arthur says. John could only nod his head.

You stumbled inside your house around half past midnight. You were both quite tipsy, having drank Pol’s stocks of wine. The Shelby Company Ltd. has been gaining more popularity now, along with the Blinders. Hell, Tommy even posted two Blinders to guard you. “For when I’m not around,” he said.

“Pol’s going to kill me for giving Finn too much cake,” you giggled, leaning on him.

“I reckon you’re banned from Sunday dinners,” Tommy jokes, taking his shoes off. He takes note of how you’re dressed today. “You know you can remove all the fucking things on your body right? Rouge…the jewels. Where’d you get them? Is the rich bastard buttering you up?”

“I like it. Dressing up makes me happy,” you frowned. “I’m allowed to like nice things, right?”

“Right,” his jaw ticked. It should be him who's giving you these gifts…showing you a lavish life. He hated it. “Later?”

“Later,” you nodded. “When I’m banned from Sunday dinners, you wouldn’t let me be left out, right?”

“‘Course not,” he shrugged, pulling you to your bedroom like he owned the place. You didn’t mind. You were happy to see that he was comfortable in your home. “You’re my best girl.”

“That’s what you say to your horses,”

“You’ve got really good horse sense and you’re always on your high horse,” he says, peeling his coat away. He was rummaging in your chest now, looking for clothes he might have left until he settled on a simple white shirt and pyjama pants.

“Yeah, yeah. You and your horse wordplay.” You entered the bathroom to dress down. Just like Tommy, you settled in his shirt and pants. They were more comfortable than singlets and you certainly didn’t want to make Tommy uncomfortable.

He was already waiting for you on the bed when you came back. He pats the space beside him. You obliged. You were looking into each other’s eyes with small smiles, Tommy’s finger trailing down your arm absentmindedly.

“I…” words died in his throat before he could get them out. “I…”

“What is it, Tom? Are you okay?”

“I’ll get you out of here,” he rasps. “I’ll get you out of there and I won’t let you work a day in your life anymore.”

“Tommy,” you sighed. “I can’t—can’t leave this job. It’s all I have,” He tightens his arms around you, afraid that you’ll ask him to let go.

“I know but once I come back from the war—“

“The war?” you asked, removing his arms around you. “War?”

“We enlisted,” he clarifies, trying to gauge your reaction. “Once I come back, I’ll be so fucking rich. I’ll have you. I’ll keep you and you won’t have to lift a finger. We’ll live in a mansion and have servants. Just like what we used to talk about,”

“Tommy, you’re going to war?” you asked, standing from the bed. His eyes watched you settle down shakily on the single chair by the bed. “Fuck. You’re going to war. You’re going to leave me,”

“No, love. Come on, I—“ he grunts, sitting up from his relaxed position.

“It’s war, Tommy! They change people…I don’t want to lose you; do you not get that? Are you not happy here? Is that why you're throwing your life away?”

“I’m not throwing my life away,” he says, a frown. “We’ll be drafted one way or another because we’re poor. Might as well do it now than be forced. Some of my men will still watch over you every now and then. They’ll still make sure that you’re safe. We’ll send letters. Alright?”

“Letters,” you scoffed. “And what if the letters stopped coming?”

“Don’t say that, please,” he begs. “I’m doing this for all of us. The business will be handled by Polly and when I’m back, I’ll make it even bigger. Alright? You have to trust me,” You didn’t even want to ask about the business. You didn’t want to ask why more men wore peaky caps. You didn’t want to ask what the Shelby Company Ltd. really was. Not now.

“I know you will, Tom,” you said. “But I’m scared. For the first time since I’ve known you, you won’t be here. I’m scared,”

Tommy lays his hand on your shoulder. Words he couldn’t say lingered in the air. I’ll marry you once I step foot in England. He didn’t know what else to say; didn’t know if there was still something to say. So, he kneels before you and makes you look at him. You were crying. So afraid, so alone.

“I’m sorry,” he says.

“When will you be leaving?”

“I have two more days,” he says. “Will I still see you?”

“Yes, of course,” you said. “You’ll come back for me?”

“Of course. I have a picture of you already in my pocket. I have to make sure to come back to you,” he said. “and everyone else, of course.”

He fishes a necklace from his pocket, his mother’s locket.

“Here,” he said, showing it to you. It was one of the last pieces of jewellery she owned. “Mum gave it to me. You know I’ve always worn it. I want you to wear it now. Think of it as a loan, yeah? You’ll give it back once we see each other again,”

“Tommy, I—“

“I want you to accept it. I want you to see you wear it now. I want to see you wear it before I leave. But most of all I want for us to stay the same,” he says, holding you and kissing your hair softly. You couldn’t push him away. You’ve longed for this your whole life. To be held, to feel loved. It’s all you’ve ever wanted.

“I’m sorry. So, so, so fucking sorry.”

“I don’t think you’re wasting your life away,” you cleared your throat. “I’m so—I’m so proud of you and your bravery. I’m so proud of you but I can’t be fucking happy for you. I don’t want to wake up every day knowing that you’re not here. I don’t want to have to guess if you were alive or not.”

“I am,” he promises. “I’ll be alive. I’ll come back as your Tommy. Just…wait for me, alright?”

You clung onto Tommy two days later by the train. He whispered that he would come back. He said that he will make sure of it. He breathes in the smell of your hair—roses. He envelopes you in his arms once more and turns to leave, never looking back. You knew, in your hysterics, that if he comes back from the war, the same old Tommy you used to know would never be.

PART 2 PART 3

TAGLIST: @shelbydelrey @runnning-outof-time @duckybird101 @thenattitude @swordofawriter @litteltourtius @trixie23 @everythingelseisextra

#tommy shelby x reader #thomas shellby x reader #tommy shelby #peaky blinders x reader #peaky blinders #hurt/comfort #tommy shelby angst #thomas shelby angst #cillian murphy

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dreamerschroniclesofstories · 5 months

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Clementina pt1

A/N: hello! This is my first fic and hopefully you enjoy it. It was originally just a one shot fanfic but I didn’t realise how long it was going to be so I’m thinking it will be at least two parts but if you want it be a full series of how the Shelby’s adjust to clementina then just let me know! And if you already gathered, this is based after the scene in season 5 ep3 when Tommy and Polly visit the nuns at st Hilda’s. Hope you enjoy!. I DO NOT GIVE PERMISSION FOR YOU TO REPOST THIS ON OTHER WEBSITES AND TRANSLATION OF THIS FIC.

Summery: the Shelby family are in for a shock when they find out they have a sister hiding in plain sight. pt2: pt3: pt4

Word count: 1,567

The early sunrise fills the Shelby manor, the home of Thomas Shelby and his son is strangely quiet considering it is nearing six am on a Saturday. Commonly, the maids would have Charlie up and having his breakfast by now. however, the only noise filling the silence was the ticking of the small clock on the wall behind Tommy's desk in his office. Inside the office, sat Tommy and his aunt, Polly. accompanying the pair were five piles of old folders sitting on Tommy's desk and on the floor beside Polly's discarded handbag, which she placed there no less than seven hours ago. these folders currently hold the information of the young girls who resided in St Hilda's orphanage.

Two days prior, the aunt and nephew visited the nun-owned orphanage after Tommy had received a concerning report, from a young girl who recently left the care of St Hilda's after turning 18, about abuse that was occurring within the walls of the orphanage. after the rushed meeting, Tommy stopped the funding he was providing and Polly requested the folders of every girl in their care so they could place them into new orphanages ran by the Grace Shelby foundation. Tommy and Polly didn't expect was the folders arriving two hours before midnight and there to be nearly three hundred folders. they knew the orphanage was overrun but not that much. For the past seven hours, the pair had been reading and placing the folders into different piles for the different orphanages that they were going to place the girls in. Most of them were in Birmingham but the occasional one was in London or Manchester.

They were getting close to finishing, having only a handful left to read. this allowed Tommy to have another smoke break. he stood by the double-glazed windows, staring out to the fields watching as his horses walked around slowly and ate freshly cut grass. the room was still quiet, except for the reoccurring sound of Tommy blowing out smoke and inhaling every few seconds. However, the sound of Polly gasping under her breath catches Tom's attention, making him turn around, “Thomas” the middle-aged woman whispered, “You need to see this” she states, her voice full of shock.

Tommy frowns as he walks back towards his desk, “ what is it, ey?” he questions curiously, the newly light cigarette hangs from between his lips.

“Just read it Thomas” she sighs, Polly begins to bite her nails. a habit she does when she is stressed. Tommy opens the folder and begins to read the information, which was written in a hurry because the handwriting was messier than the others.

Tommy was confused at Polly's reaction, to him this was just another folder detailing information about an unwanted little girl placed into the orphanage five years ago. that was until he read the section about her parent....he slams the folder down on his desk and puts his cigarette out into his ashtray, he rubs his hand down his face, a sign he was stressed “ fucking hell” he grumbles, staring at the folder.

“ fucking hell indeed” Polly agrees, watching her nephew across from her “It seems you have a kid sister, out there Thomas” She shakes her head in disbelief, she knew Arthur Shelby Sr was known to sleep around but she did not expect to have another Shelby stuck in this world because of him. Polly grabs the folder again and begins to re-read it.“ another fucking Shelby” Polly chuckles under her breath, Tommy was quiet as he thinks about what they should do. he knew that it wasn't a good idea to bring her into the world of crime that the family were involved in but he knew Polly wouldn't let him leave her in the care of an orphanage.

Tommy suddenly stands up, grabbing his jacket “Pol, ring around, tell everyone to be here in three hours” he demands, walking out of the office not telling Polly where he was going and he didn't give her the time to ask either because he was out of the house and into his car in the record time of three minutes.

By the time everyone was around the Shelby manor, Tommy was back from wherever he left. He walks into his office. Polly was sitting on the chair was was sitting on earlier, Ada was sitting on the leather seat by the bookshelf with Karl standing beside her. Arthur was standing by the windows with Finn beside him. They were all waiting impatiently for him

“ thank fuck for that, thought you'd never turn up” Arthur states annoyedly. His hands are in his pockets.

Ada rolls her eyes at Arthur’s language “What’s the emergency that made you wake me and Karl up at six in the morning?” She questions Tommy.

Tommy walks over to his desk, pulling out a cigarette from his pocket “Me and Pol have been sorting through the orphan girls' files” he explains, sitting down at his desk.

Finn frowns “And what’s that got to do with any of us?” No one answers him, he was allowed to come to meetings but he isn’t allowed to contribute to them

Tommy lights his cigarette and inhales then exhales smoke before he begins to talk again “There’s a girl, who might be of interest to us” he looks towards Polly.

Polly smiles slightly “Her names clementine, nine years old” she explains, looking around at the Shelby siblings.

Ada shakes her head “Why would a little girl be of interest to you Thomas” She narrows her eyes slightly, feeling suspicious of Tommy.

Tommy rolls his eyes slightly and leans back into his chair “Her mother died when she was four, she was left with her drunken father, who lasted three months before he dropped her off at St Hilda’s” he repeated what he read in the file, three hours prior.

Pol sighs “ for god's sake Thomas, just tell them” she demands irritated, she sits up straight “Her fathers name is Arthur Shelby sr” she announces. The atmosphere in the office quickly changed, you could hear a pin drop from how quiet it became. Arthur coughs and runs his hand through his hair, confused as fuck as to what was happening.

Ada stands up and walks closer to Tommy's desk “We have a sister? And she’s still in that orphanage after what you found out” she states, taking the folder from Tommy's hand as soon as he takes it out of the drawer in his desk. She shakes her head and walks back over to her seat.

Tommy pours himself a glass of whiskey “Me, Arthur and Polly are going back to the orphanage to get her” he explains.

Arthur frowns “We are? Linda wants me back for dinner” he explains, shifting from his left foot to his right foot, his body language showing he was nervous since he knew what his family thought of Linda.

Polly grumbles “ I’m sure she can wait” she states, her voice filled with venom as she looks towards Arthur “We are saving a little girl from abuse” She stands up and walks over to Arthur “Not just a little girl, your sister, a Shelby”.

#tommy shelby fanfic #tommy shelby imagines #peaky blinders x reader #peaky blinders imagine #peaky blinders fanfic #thomas shelby #arthur shelby #thomas shelby x sister reader #peaky blinders x sister!reader #tommy shelby fanfiction #peaky blinders imagines

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dyns33 · 11 days

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Family honor

So Alfie x Y/N Shelby wife will be a little series now

There were several differences between a Gypsy wedding and a Jewish wedding.

The most obvious being that gypsy marriage was not recognized by anyone except gypsies.

But if it wasn't celebrated, you could walk past a priest, a rabbi, an imam or the fucking King himself, to live for years with the same person, under the same roof, with children, that would not have the slightest importance for the gypsies.

Alfie Solomons muttered several times that none of this was kosher, but he respected all the rites and traditions of Y/N's family. Even drinking alcohol, he who hated having a foggy mind.

"Already quite foggy the rest of the time, love. But if your savages of brothers insist…"

“The savages insist.” John said, giving him a whole bottle of whiskey.

“I can’t believe this asshole is going to become one of us.”

"Oh, Arthur, I'm touched that you accept me so quickly into your heart."

It took several people besides Tommy and Y/N to stop them from killing each other, when they were completely drunk.

Then they insisted on walking together in the horse field, the older Shelby brother ending up giving his blessing before falling asleep under a tree, making it clear that he would slit Alfie's throat if he did not treat his beloved little sister correctly.

The wandering jew left him to return with the others, who were dancing and singing. A perfect wedding, completely normal.

If he was offended when Y/N told him that the Jewish marriage was practically the same, he didn't show it, just made a strange sound with his nose.

There may have been less alcohol, and it was legally recognized, but the rest was a gathering of a lot of loud people, not speaking English, jumping around and congratulating them on their union.

Y/N, however, quickly noticed the biggest difference between gypsy marriage and Jewish marriage.

Although they had been a little surprised and worried by her choice of husband, her family had decided to give a chance to Alfie Solomons, whom they judged solely because of his actions. The rest didn't matter in the slightest.

With the Camden community, it wasn’t so simple.

“Your lovely wife is going to convert ?” an old woman asked, although it sounded more like an order than a question.

"Ah, frau Aldermann. It is true that I am such a pious man myself, it is a very important subject that my wife and I have talked about a lot. Isn't that right, treacle ?"

“Good, good.” sighed a man, patting his shoulder, not seeming to understand Alfie's sarcasm. "This is very important, especially for such an admired member. Perhaps your mother was of Jewish parentage ?"

She could have replied that she had not really known her mother, and therefore even less her family, but her husband saved her from this discussion, which he considered ridiculous, by inviting her to dance.

A true act of love, for him who hated dancing, in addition to suffering terribly because of his back.

It didn't take long for her entire family tree to be dissected in every way. The old harpies of Camden were like all the harpies of London.

The fact that she couldn't answer their question was almost a good thing. This mystery made it possible to say that if we could not verify that she was Jewish through her mother, we could not verify that she was not either. And everything always went through the mother.

The deplorable past of her father and the Shelby family could then have been forgotten.

The problem was mainly that her mother was not Mr. Arthur Shelby Sr. wife, which made Y/N a bastard. A gypsy bastard at that.

Even when she didn't understand the language, she guessed that people were talking about her. These looks and these laughter, she knew them well. Her brothers had suffered them when they were younger, before they used their fists to silence the ignorant and conquer Birmingham.

But she wasn't in Birmingham. Her brothers were not there, and it was her husband's kingdom.

Alfie wasn't the last to comment on gypsies.

"You know, I expected to have to sleep in a caravan for our honeymoon. It would have been terrible for my back, I don't know if Thomas took pity on us or if his petty posh side is to be thanked."

“They had a tent for us, but Finn threw up in it.”

"Fuck off, love. You're kidding me !"

“Then we would have danced naked around a fire asking the moon to give us happiness, health and above all a lot of fucking money.”

"… Yeah, you're totally kidding me, you little rascal." Alfie said, mock irritated, pulling her in for a kiss.

He didn't seem to notice that every little word spoken against her family and their traditions was beginning to weigh on her.

At least it was never completely mean when it was him. Almost innocent, full of prejudice and stupidity, but not crossing certain limits.

The rest of the community was not so kind. Many had not appreciated that the King of Camden, such a prized party, war hero, respected gangster, charming man, ended up with a girl like her. It must have been business, blackmail, or black magic.

There was no other possible explanation.

For several months, she decided to be the reasonable adult, remaining calm and polite, taking the blows as best she could. Tommy had taught her how to do it.

He had also taught her the pride of gypsies. Honor.

So there came a day when she was walking through the bakery, and some of the employees made a little joke about stealing and fortune telling, laughing like the idiots they were.

Normally, she would have ignored him. But Y/N was exhausted, and Polly's voice repeated in her head that no Shelby would ever allow themselves to be treated like this, so before they had time to react, she grabbed the hair of one of them, placing a knife to his throat.

"Tell me another joke about gypsies. Then I'll tell you a joke about Jews. Then I'll kill you."

The boy squealed, calling to his colleagues for help with his big, frightening eyes, but no one dared to move. Because they knew she would go faster. And even if she wasn't moving fast enough, she was Tommy Shelby's sister and Alfie Solomons' wife. Literally untouchable.

"Come on." she whispered in his ear. "Make me laugh. No ? No more jokes ? You're going to play the victim. It's funny, people who complain about being mistreated, then do exactly the same thing to others while thinking they're superior. You're all the same."

She didn't comment on the puddle under his legs, nor the little cry of panic when she released him.

Everyone stood still, watching her leave, and when she met Ollie's gaze, she knew she had just made a mistake. She only proved that she was indeed the savage they all described, the bad person.

Alfie probably wouldn't be happy when his right hand man told him what happened.

He did indeed seem to be in a terrible mood when she found him waiting for her in the living room, sunk into the sofa, indicating that his back was hurting badly, but that he would refuse to talk about it.

"Come, love, have a sit. Come on, sit down here."

Not wanting to act like a child, she remained silent as she took a seat in the chair he indicated to her.

This was obviously not what he expected, because he didn't speak either, staring at her intensely, hands crossed, displaying a small pout.

“Do you want to tell me what happened at the bakery today ?”

“Why ask if you already know ?”

“I would like your version.”

"I threatened to slit the throat of one of your workers and disrupted production. Do you want to spank me ?"

"Tempting. Why did you want to slit his throat ?"

“Unimportant.”

"Unimportant, uh ? Unimportant, love ? Because Ollie came to tell me that some guys were talking bad about me wife."

Groaning slightly, Alfie stood up just enough to push a piece of paper and pencil in her direction onto the table between them.

"Names."

“Alfie…”

"I want the names, treacle. I've already gone around the bakery telling everyone that insulting me wife and her family was insulting me, and I don't like being insulted. Names."

“You always make fun of gypsies.”

"Wrong." he retorted, holding up a finger as if that proved his point. "I do it when your brothers are around, because Thomas can be a little prick, and it's hilarious to see Arthur react like a mad dog. But I have nothing against gypsies. Lovely people. The proof, look at you. And look at me. The two most wonderful creatures our communities could spawn, right ?"

Despite all her strength, Y/N couldn't help but smile, which seemed to please her husband. He then placed his victorious finger on the paper, insisting on names.

If she had shown mercy by not cutting, this would not be the case with the wandering jew, king of Camden Town.

No one insulted his wife. No one looked at his wife badly, no one criticized her, no one tried to take away from her, no one thought of her with bad thoughts.

“Not even you ?” Y/N asked with a mischievous smile.

"Not at all. Now you brought up spanking. You brought it up first, love, not me."

“My brothers would be furious to hear that you beat me.”

"Don't tempt me, I can spread false rumors all the way to Birmingham just for the thrill of them all running here, and finding us…"

“You’re the one who deserves a spanking.”

"Ungrateful wife. Threatening me, under my own roof, when my back is killing me and I have just condemned half the city for the love of her."

The Shelbys never knew about their sister's difficult first months in Camden. Tommy noticed that he seemed to be treated with a little more respect when he walked the streets, but neither Y/N nor Alfie talked about what had happened before this outpouring of acceptance from the community.

On the other hand, Arthur noticed marks on his little sister's neck, and he tried to strangle Alfie, even after realizing that it wasn't what he thought, because it wasn't really better for him.

And Solomons reminding him that he was his brother-in-law didn't help at all.

#peaky blinders #alfie solomons #alfie solomons x reader #alfie solomons imagine #alfie solomons fanfiction #shelby reader

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themultifandomgal · 8 months

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Shelby Sister- Little Dancer

Lilly Shelby is the youngest of all the Shelby's at only 6 years old. She may only be their half sibling but they still love her. Lilly arrived on the doorstep of Polly Grey when she was only 2 days old. Her mom would have been a single mum out of wedlock, and her dad, Arthur Shelby Sr didn't want anything to with her.

From the moment she arrived at Polly's Lilly was doted on especially by John and Finn, the 2 siblings she's especially close to. As Lilly grew up her love of music and dace also grew, always putting on performances for her siblings. Tommy put Lilly into dance classes which only intensified her love, but no one minds.

"No Finn that's wrong" Lilly scolds her brother

"I'm doing what you showed me" Finn sighs

"No your not. Your toes aren't pointed"

"Ok fine" Finn points his toes making Lilly smile "better?"

"Yes. Now put your arms like this and spin like me" Lilly demonstrates what she wants Finn to do before deciding they are ready to put on their show. Arthur, Polly, Tommy and John all sit in the living room. Tommy puts on the record that Lilly set up and music starts playing. Lilly walks in with Finn and gets in here starting position.

Finn and Lilly do their dance which earns cheers and claps off all the family

"That was beautiful Lilly" Polly praises her niece

"Thank you, but Finn what did I tell you about pointing you toes"

"Sorry" Finn holds up his hands chuckling making the others laugh "hey your next" Finn points to John

"At least John points his toes"

"Why don't you show us how it's done then Lilly" Tommy says putting the music on once again. Lilly gets into her starting position and begins her dance routine once again

"Well done Lilly" John picks the little girl up while smiling

"Will you and Finn come to my dance recital?" Lilly asks

"How about all of us go?" Ada asks

"Yes but Finn and John definitely?"

"Of course we will be there Lil" John tells his youngest sibling

"One day Lilly your going to be on a big stage and make more than just your family smile" Finn says tickling Lilly making her giggle.

Another day another show being put on in the Shelby house hold, but no one minds. Lilly Shelby will always make her siblings smile, even if she is making them dance with her in the living room of their small home in Small Heath.

#peaky blinders #peaky blinders imagine #peaky blinders reader #sister shelby #shelby sister #peaky blinders sister #peaky blinder imagine #tommy shelby #john shelby #arthur shelby

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look-at-the-soul · 2 years

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Tommy Shelby Master list

✨Separate Master list for mini series, one shots and long series.

Gif by @thesoldiersminute gif set

Mini series

Pre war series - Follow Tommy & Sabine’s story through letters and flashbacks before, during and after the war.

Adele song challenge: All I ask (Part 1), “Can’t love you in the dark” (Part 2)-

One Shots

Late -Summary: You are engaged to someone else. Tommy Shelby is married. If only you two had crossed paths sooner… Sometimes chances are late. And there’s nothing you can do about it.

Saving each other - Summary: Danny Whizz Bang died at the end of S01, he was killed by Billy Kimber, two years later, his wife, Rosie and their kids will need Tommy Shelby’s help. Grace has betrayed him. They will learn they can help each other.

Safest place to hide - Summary: Tommy’s mother passed away recently, his father, Arthur Shelby Sr abandoned them out of nowhere, leaving a few months old baby Finn with his siblings, while Polly took over as a mother figure to them. But you have some important matter to tell him. (Pre war)

Lips of an Angel- S6 Farewell Mr. Shelby, I hope you take your white horse and ride bareback.

This isn’t goodbye- Babba is an elderly gypsy who lost her vision a long time ago, but now she can ‘see’ through her hands. It’s a gift that allows her to know your deepest secrets. Tommy asks for her help because he can’t sleep, the Grace hallucinations are becoming too much, but instead he will find out something he didn’t know about his first love, Greta.

Love will keep you up all night - Tommy tries to calm his little girl after she started crying scared of the storm outside. So he shares a little story of how he met her Mum.

Moondance -Tommy and his wife have a particular way to communicate while being mad at each other; through their children. When he decided to start keeping his promises, he starts with a dance.

Do I - Tommy and you had a fight, now you both have to deal with the consequences of what you said and did.

What about now - After two kids and being together for a while, Tommy decides it’s the right time to propose to the mother of his children.

Unbreakable- Being best friends with Thomas Shelby had a lot of benefits; full protection, your business was always looked after to prevent getting robbed by from thieves, your daughter was attending the same school than his children because he loved Sally as if she was his own. But it also could get you into unsolicited trouble.

More than words -Tommy struggles to sexually satisfy his woman when in reality, all she needs from him is to show her how much she means to him.

Have it all - Modern AU Tommy Shelby: Professor Jeremiah invites a friend during his ethics class to talk to his students since they are starting their last year in college. Turns out you weren’t a stranger to Mr. Shelby.

Making amends- Tommy Shelby x reader: Tommy hires a new horse trainer. But she will do more than just train his horse, she will fix his broken relationship with Charlie and in the process, she will earn his heart.

Ain’t she sweet- Tommy x Reader: Charlie finds out his Mum was shot, he decides to be distant from you, as the relationship gets harder you ask Tommy to put your engagement on hold.

Someone like you - Tommy x reader: Tommy meets a mysterious woman that looks exactly as his mother, since they believe in reincarnation, he thinks his mother found her way back to him.

Drunk on you - Tommy Shelby x reader Tommy would only admit his feelings for you after, well a night of drinking.

New traditions - Modern Tommy Shelby x reader + Charlie. Who knew that new traditions could make Tommy go soft and do things he wouldn’t normally do?

Black Velvet- Tommy Shelby x OC (Eva Smith). Eva prepares a recipe after dreaming with it. But she adds a secret ingredient to grant Tommy’s eternal love.

Collecting moments, not things -Modern Tommy Shelby x Y/N (inspired by the Blind Date couple), they take Charlie to the orphanage to celebrate Christmas with the kids.

A new kind of love -Modern Tommy Shelby x YN. Join Tommy, Charlie and Y/N to discover a new kind of love, in the form of a little new (and very cute) friend 🐾

Straight to the heart -Tommy Shelby x reader (nurse). Tommy has brain surgery but he will meet the one person who will stay with him day and night and take of him without asking from anything from him, but his heart.

Save yourself- Tommy Shelby x reader; inspired by KALEO’s song, in this story reader finds Tommy cheated, her reaction will have Tommy wishing he never did it.

Make your heart my home - Tommy Shelby x reader; Y/N is running away from Durham until she gives in on a rainy night thinking there’s nothing left for her, until Tommy finds her.

Close your eyes, make a wish - Modern Tommy has to face a kind of war he’s never been into before.

The one - Modern Tommy met his gf through a modern tool, join their little weekend getaway.

My refuge - Tommy Shelby x daughter reader; after finding his long lost daughter, they develop a strong and close bond, making Michael feel off towards his niece because of her charming and sweet personality.

A thoughtful gift - Tommy Shelby x reader; Y/N has a present for Father’s Day, taking Tommy by surprise, but you’ll be surprised by Charlie’s joke

The way to a man’s heart - Tommy Shelby (dark). Y/N will play a crucial part tearing apart the Shelby family, and this is only the start.

Skyfall- Tommy faces one of the hardest moments of his life when his family goes to prison, but he won’t face it alone.

Hometown Glory - Tommy is forced to go back to his Watery Lane house after Jimmy McCavern planted explosives in his property and takes away something that really matters to the Shelby leader.

The choice - 🎃 Tommy is losing Ruby from consumption, so he rushes to ask for help to a woman he had heard owns some kind of special power. But changing the course of things around has consequences.

The Photoshoot- Peaky Blinders edition

Always with me- Tommy Shelby x reader (+Grandma) 👵🏻🎄 Follow Tommy to plan for a different holiday for his girlfriend who is dealing with a significant loss

Grandma knows best -

Because of you- modern Tommy Shelby

Endless love- Modern Tommy. Y/N is “forced” to leave her husband and baby for the weekend, so join Tommy to sort parenthood by himself for a couple of days. How will he deal with everything? Including a fussy baby.

Series

All we’d ever need- You are Polly’s goddaughter, met Tommy when you moved in with your godmother. After Grace left, when he was broken, in a shell, moved by the pain… until he started noticing you. Then in a serious relationship some unexpected news will shake their worlds a little.

Every little thing you do- Y/N has been Tommy’s best friend since childhood. She had always been there for him when he needed her the most. Now as the Shelby family are in a better position, Y/N will need Tommy’s support when something she didn’t expect happens.

Brotherhood (coming soon)

Blurbs here

Series

#That’s what Cill said #tommy shelby #peaky blinders #cillian murphy #cillian murphy imagine #tommy shelby imagine #cillian murphy fanfic #peaky blinders imagine #tommy shelby x fem!reader #tommy shelby x reader #tommy shelby x you #tommy shelby x y/n #tommy Shelby smut #thomas shelby x you #Thomas Shelby fanfic #Thomas Shelby smut #Cillian x Tommy

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hacked-wtsdz · 1 year

Text

It’s interesting how tommy takes not the position of a father in his family but the position of the older brother. There was a Steven knight interview where he said something about making the relationships between the shelbys more unique by giving them unusual familial roles (polly being an aunt instead of a mother leaves a lot more space for playing with her relationship with Tommy, they are siblings, they are partners, they are aunt and nephew, they are parents, etc). And tommy being a middle child instead of the oldest child is also an interesting choice that plays into this decision I think. The way it makes his ascension less… natural I would say. If you read the script for the first episode or watch the first season closely, it’s clear that he wasn’t always in such a position. He is in the process of overpowering Arthur there, of taking the lead from polly as well. His relationship with ada and John is more normal than the rest of the shelbys is partly because of the fact that he is actually older than them. I don’t know what it all means but it’s definitely there somewhere. And Tommy’s relationship with his father plays into the equation, as well as the fact that it was Arthur who had the arc with Arthur sr, not Tommy. Like, the responsibility and guilt that Tommy feels for his family isn’t strictly parental. He is a substitute for the father (like John says in s1 to Arthur sr) but only in name. In reality he’s something else.

#a great choice on the part of knight #they didn’t really explore it much #but you can feel it #peaky blinders #tommy shelby #arthur shelby #john shelby #ada shelby #polly gray #micheal gray #shelbys #charlie shelby #steven knight

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dearshelby · 1 year

Text

Between the cross and the sword | T.S

Summary: The return of Arthur Sr to Small Heath turns the day upside down. The relationship between Y/N and Tommy takes another step.

A/N: This chapter practically wrote itself, it's not what I had initially planned, but my subconscious need for drama took the reins 🤭

PREVIOUS CHAPTER NEXT CHAPTER

Chapter 3: The past, the present and the future.

The many shades of tissue made Y/N indecisive. Tommy's breath at the back of her neck and the weight of a gun on her stockings didn't help her to go faster.

"It's just a fucking curtain, it can't be that hard," Tommy rushed her.

"Then pick one up!"

"I already told you to get another white one,"

"Tommy," she stared at him, "will you wash them from time to time?"

"Just pick a color, alright? I have better things to do,"

After fixing the broken window in Tommy's bedroom, she noticed the curtains were old and dirty, probably weren't washed for years, by her standards that was unacceptable, they needed new ones.

The attacks from the Lees didn't cease and that worried Tommy. He didn't want to leave the house for something as trivial as curtains, but after much insistence from Y/N they went out to get new ones, with the condition both would carry guns.

"Perhaps cream then?" she asked.

"Cream is good," he answered, defeated.

"Just because it isn't white doesn't mean you won't have to wash it,"

"Can we go now?"

"Yes, Mr. Shelby, we can go,"

On the way home, his hand rested on her waist as a security matter, just in case a Lee boy suddenly showed up, Tommy could easily move her away, so she wouldn't need to reach for her own gun.

In the past few weeks, the couple adapted to each other's routine without much trouble. An exigence from Y/N was that he never hid anything from her, since the war directly affected her life too.

During the day they worked, at night things were different, quieter, they've been holding each other to sleep as a silent agreement, the initial awkwardness melted away on the other's embrace.

As much as Tommy tried to avoid it, the warmth of her skin stuck to his sometimes got him painfully hard on his trousers, making him feel like a hormonal teenager. In the attempt to someday soothe this frustration, he'd been testing the waters with her.

He'd rather be hung than making her resent him, his touches were never bolder than ones of a friend. Holding her hand, caressing her arms, all things he did in his teenage years trying to win her.

However, this time her reactions weren't negative, although she never returned his gestures, she didn't complain or move away.

Entering home with bags on their hands, the voice they heard made them freeze, they switched a look before entering the kitchen.

Arthur Sr, Tommy's father, the man who abandoned five children for Polly, who was recently widowed at the time, to look after, sat on the table as if he still owned the house.

"Ah! Speak of the devil!" he greeted, "How are you, son?"

Tommy glanced at Arthur then at John, from the look on their faces who brought the bastard home was obvious.

"I remember you!" he noticed Y/N, "Arthur told me you got married, I knew it'd happen eventually but let me warn you, you better watch out, yeah? I had an affair with your mum,"

"Get out of this house," Tommy hissed, restricting his anger.

"Tommy-" Arthur Jr spoke.

"You shut up,"

"Wait," Y/N interrupted, "what did you say about my mum?"

"Yeah, right after Adeline died she came to comfort me, and she did, great woman she was, if you're like her then Tommy is lucky, I don't know if she was pregnant after or if she was before, but she-"

"Arthur!" Polly scolded.

"I'm just answering the kid's question, Pollyanna,"

"You're lying," Y/N teared up.

"'Course he is," Tommy scoffed, "fucking get out of here,"

"C'mon, son, I'm a changed man,"

"Get out, you fucking liar!" Y/N thundered.

"Alright then," he sighed and headed to the exit, "Arthur Shelby never stays where he's not welcomed," turning back at Tommy, he added, "quite hysterical, isn't she?"

The door opened and closed, announcing Arthur Sr's departure. Polly sighed in frustration as everyone else silently assimilated the situation.

"He's our dad," Arthur Jr argued.

"Tsk," Y/N scoffed, "he can be Amelia's too,"

"He's a selfish bastard," Tommy finished the conversation.

Noticing Y/N's discomfort, Polly walked across the kitchen, guiding the girl to the living room, before leaving, she took the bags from Tommy's hands.

Polly peeked inside of them and found curtains, bedsheets and a few decorative paintings. A smile grew on her face, she'd never thought her nephew would leave the house in the middle of a war between families only to fulfill his woman's wishes.

"Sit down," she commanded and sat beside her, "you were quite shaken with my brother's words,"

"How can someone like you have come from the same place as that bastard, Pol?"

"Uhm, he was never the same after our mother's death, I'd say he was always like this and only needed a reason to unleash his devilment,"

"He's lying, isn't he? Amelia can't be Tommy's sister, what would that make me?"

"He's lying, dear, it's all he knows how to do," Polly soothed, "Adeline died in 1908, he left in 1909,"

"My mum was already gone," she sighed in relief, "why would he say that then?"

"Probably just to tease you, he was friends with your father, he knew Joseph would have killed him if he touched your mother,"

"Friends, yeah, I imagine," Y/N humorlessly chuckled.

"He must had been jealous of your father, he had a mind for business and a good marriage,"

"Oh, how I hate that man, Arthur must be mad to bring him back,"

"Well, it's his father above anything,"

"He's a selfish bastard," Y/N repeated Tommy's words.

"Yeah," Polly agreed, "I'll check on Arthur, he must be shaken,"

As she left the room, Y/N checked her bags, the excitement of redecorating her temporary bedroom was gone. She should know happiness never lasted long when you're surrounded by Shelbys.

Tommy entered the place with his hands on his pockets, the blankness of his face didn't hide the frustration in his eyes.

"Are you alright?" she asked.

"Yeah," he drawled, "are you?"

She shrugged off and he pursed his lips, hating to see her upset because of his father.

"Don't you want to put the curtains on? You took long to choose them,"

"Later, how is Arthur?"

Tommy huffed, negatively nodding, "Stupid,"

"Uhm, I- I think I'll go for a walk, when I come back we'll finish your room,"

"No, you won't," he forbid, "it's not safe,"

"You gave me a gun, Tommy, I can defend myself,"

"It's still dangerous, if you want to cry go to the bedroom, no one will bother you,"

Without answering, she stood up and walked to the exit. Tommy followed her, grabbing her arm.

"Y/N, fucking listen to me,"

"You're not the boss of me," she hissed, "I just wanna go to my grandad's house,"

"I'll take you,"

"Is it too hard to understand I want to be alone?"

"Is it too hard to not act like a fucking child?! If you want to go to fucking Ned's house I'll take you, but you can't go around by yourself as if there isn't a war going on!"

"Let go, Tommy," she muttered, scared by his change of tone.

"...as if I haven't enough on," he sighed and let go of her arm.

Pushing him out of the way, she rushed upstairs, hiding in the bedroom. She never imagined Tommy could be so intimidating, at least not with her.

She sat on the bed, cursing him for nearly making her cry, one of the few memories she had of her father was him telling her to never cry over a man, but how could she not? Regret weighted on her chest, she could have ran away after the deal was set, but she didn't because she believed Tommy was a fair man.

Then, it occurred to her, was, the boy she knew before the war was a fair, good man. Perhaps now she was married to a stranger.

Brushing away the tears threatening to run down her face. She composed herself, Arthur Sr was a hurricane of a man flustering everywhere he went, besides she wasn't stuck with Tommy forever, as soon as the Lees were defeated, life would get back to normal.

Deciding it was the best to do now, Y/N started to think of a plan that could put up white flags. Only then she'd be set free of Thomas Shelby.

Three knocks announced Tommy entering the bedroom. He awkwardly closed the door behind him and muttered.

"Love-"

"Don't call me that," she blankly demanded.

"Alright, Y/N, listen to me, I'm sorry,"

Tommy sat down near her as she kept silent, staring at the same point of the wall.

"Hey," he put a strand of hair behind her ear, "if you want to go to Ned's house I'll take you,"

She negatively nodded and Tommy sighed, an old, tired sound from someone who had to deal with so much, never let his guard down, never spin out of control, didn't matter how hard everything got.

"If something happened to you, if you were caught on the crossfire of a war I started I'd never forgive myself," he explained, "and that bastard gets on my nerves, I was already angry then there was you, I know it doesn't justify anything,"

"No, it doesn't,"

"...did I hurt you?" he caressed her arm.

"You scared me, Tommy," she finally stood up for herself, "I didn't know what you'd do if I tried to go out,"

"I'd probably drag you back," he confessed.

"And what gives you the right?"

"Nothing, nothing gives me the right of yelling, grabbing or dragging you, but Y/N, the weeks you spent here were the calmer of my whole fucking life, if I didn't know you were safe I'd go mad,"

"I know I was irrational," she admitted, "but I can defend myself, Tom, I had a life before you too, alright?"

"Alright," he agreed, "but this is our life now, until war is over,"

"Aren't you tired of wars, Tommy?" she suddenly asked, "this one only has a few weeks and I'm losing my mind already,"

"...sometimes," he looked down, "sometimes I think I lost it a long time ago,"

As Tommy stared at his own feet, Y/N looked at him, pitying him, realizing his wounds were much deeper than she imagined. She wrapped her arms around him, resting her head on his shoulder.

"I have a friend who worked on an asylum, she dealt with all sorts of people and someday she got to a conclusion," with a tiny smile on her face, she joked, "people only truly lose their minds when they start to rip money,"

Tommy scoffed with laughter, that wasn't the conclusion he expected, it served as consolation though, perhaps he wasn't completely insane yet.

Tilting his head to look at her, he smirked seeing her with closed eyes, resting on his shoulder. Noticing his eyes on her, she lifted her head.

Face-to-face, she giggled when his fringe brushed on her forehead. He cupped her jaw, gently caressing her cheeks, refusing to be the one to make the first move.

Her eyes lowered to his lips, she didn't know if it was the effect of her inexperience with men or Tommy himself, but she was mesmerized.

Slowly, she locked their lips together in a quick peck. Tommy wrapped an arm around her waist and united their lips again, never fully taking control.

She cupped his cheeks pulling him closer, warmth spread through her body. Only when she needed to breathe again she pushed him away, stood up and wiped her mouth.

"You- you should go check on Arthur," she stuttered, "from the look on his face it's clear he'll believe anything that man tell him, I'll stay here and finish the room,"

With flustered cheeks and a confused look on his face, Tommy muttered, "Alright, Y/N,"

As he left the room, she covered her mouth and giggled, she couldn't believe her own boldness. At the same time, she wasn't sure if she should give Tommy hope, she couldn't deny it was good, really good, but the consequences of playing with his feelings were unpredictable.

For now, all she had sure was that the bedroom needed redecoration.

MASTERLIST

Tag list: @jyessaminereads @surazim @lovemissyhoneybee @stars-of-scorpio (this is the only series I have a tag list for, if you'd like to be tagged send me an ask, dm or comment)

#tommy shelby x reader #peaky blinder imagine #peaky blinder fanfic #Between the cross and the sword

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peakyswritings · 2 years

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Longest train I ever saw

Tommy Shelby x reader

Summary: they met, fell in love and built a family. But some things aren’t meant to last.

Warnings: mentions of war

A/N: this is for @retromafia ‘s celebration! Congrats again, darling🎉❤️. It’s inspired by “Longest train I ever saw” - Joan Baez. It’s a bit short, but I hope you like it🤍

Gif credit

It was a misty morning when (Y/n) met Tommy Shelby. She was sitting in a field, enjoying the cool breeze flowing through her hair, when a young man - who seemed to have appeared out of nowhere - fell off his horse right in front of her.

He had bright eyes, and a mischievous smile that foreshadowed all of the trouble he was capable of causing.

He was just a boy at the time, with a passion for horses and dreams much bigger than him. He was always thinking and scheming, leaving (Y/n) to often wonder what was going on in that mind of his. He was smart, and cunning. And he was the only boy that she had ever loved.

Her parents didn’t really like him or trust him, convinced that he was up to no good. He walked around with a pocket knife, had a history of pickpocketing and was believed to lay curses on people. But with a little bit of patience and a whole lot of charm, Tommy eventually won them over.

He proposed to her on that same field on 1912, with a ring he had spent almost all of his savings on.

“Marry me. I’ll buy us - not a house. A fucking mansion. Just for the two of us, and our future children.”

(Y/n) had giggled at his statement, sure that it wouldn’t be possible for people like them to achieve something like that. And she didn’t need a mansion, as long as she was with him. His house at Watery Lane was enough. It was filled with love and memories, and it had always felt like home.

A year after their marriage, little Francis was born. He had Tommy’s blue eyes and dark hair, but his mother’s temperament. That innocent child had no clue how much the thought of him used to scare his parents, at first.

During her pregnancy, (Y/n) frequently had to reassure her husband, who was terrified at the possibility of turning out like his father. Arthur Shelby Sr. used to beat his wife and children, and he walked out on his family. That example was all Tommy had ever known.

(Y/n) never admitted she was scared as well. What if she just wasn’t good enough to be a mother? She could barely take care of herself, after all.

But as soon as their son opened his big eyes on them, all of their fears faded in an instant. The creature in their arms was their whole world. Everything that used to matter was nothing compared to that.

Tommy was a good father. He kissed his son goodbye every morning before going to work and every night before putting him to bed, he put shoes on his little feet and gloves on his tiny hands when it was cold outside. One night, (Y/n) caught Tommy cradling Francis to make him fall asleep, whispering sweet words to him. She tenderly smiled as she heard him promise that he wouldn’t repeat his father’s mistakes, that he would always protect him, give him everything he couldn’t have, teach him all of the things he had to learn by himself; that he wouldn’t miss his first steps, his first day of school, or his first love.

But life had other plans for them, because Tommy would’ve never walked him to school for his first day, he would’ve never seen him sheepishly give their neighbours’ daughter a flower crown.

It was a misty morning when the longest train that (Y/n) had ever seen took her husband to war. Away from her, away from their son. She helplessly watched as it became smaller and smaller, until it was gone, like it had never been there. He was gone.

She looked at the child in her arms, who was too young to comprehend why his mother was crying so much. He would’ve never understood why his father wasn’t there to kiss him every morning and every night, to put shoes on his little feet and gloves on his tiny hands.

After taking one deep breath, (Y/n) wiped away her tears and started to walk in the opposite direction.

She would’ve done all of that on her own. She would’ve been both the woman and the man of the house. She could make it. She had to make it.

Tag list: @arwyn-the-cyrptic-bisexural @iamngoclinh08 @lilywinchesterlove @fandom-puff @capitanostella @caelys @lucillethings @peakyxtommy @queenofkings1212 @lyarr24

Tommy Shelby tag list: @50svibes

#peaky blinders imagine #peaky blinder imagine #tommy shelby imagine #peaky blinders fics #tommy shelby fic

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padfootdaredmetoo · 1 year

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Hello! ❤️I love your stories and was maybe wondering if you would write a Shelby Family x reader story where she is their half sibling who grew up in America. Like Arthur Sr. Had an affair with a woman visiting from the US right around the time Finn was also conceived and maybe that woman was who their father ended up running to when he left like a year later, but not because he was in love but because she had money and he could get her drugs and stuff. And so the reader kinda grew up “seeing” Arthur sr rarely but also being raised quietly by her richer non gangster grandparents (even unofficially taking their last name instead of Shelby)while her “parents” just went off and did whatever. one day her grandparents die and even though she is almost 19 and only a few months younger than Finn she is sent all the way to England to live with the son of her grandparents friend. And who is that son of a Friend she is send to live with? Our favorite Jewish Baker Alfred (who also doesn’t know she’s a Shelby) !!! And then like Alfie kinda takes her under his wing and cares for her like her grandparents and let’s her work in the legal part of the bakery (while not telling her about his gang b/c she actually wanted a quiet nonviolent life having seen how her parents acted) then one day she’s talking to Goliath for lunch when three men come in and one says his name is Arthur Shelby and then R gets all confused. Because as far as she knows there’s only One Arthur Shelby and the man in front of him is ABSOLUTELY not him (this guys to nice and sober to be her sperm donor). So she starts arguing with him that he’s not actually Arthur Shelby and like “why would he be impersonating such a random drunk who never did anything” and and Arthur being Arthur gets kinda offended and starts arguing back with this random teenage girl (very similar to how he would argue with teenage Ada) that he is in fact Arthur Shelby “Yes I am -no you’re not -yeah I am -no your NOT…. Etc.” and they both just end up bickering and everyone is confused until like John realizes that the she may be taking about Arthur Sr and they figure it out. Idk what would happen next the older Shelby’s would probably like be pissed and ignore her for a bit but I could see Finn being curious would be the first to reach out again kinda excited to have a sibling his age who isn’t as rough as his family and they would get close and then Ada would be the next to follow excited to have a sister. And yeah, idk sorry this is long but basically it would be the Shelby’s having a half sister who ends up in Alfie’s care and only realizes she has siblings after arguing with Arthur about his own name😂😂 you don’t have to though!!❤️❤️❤️

Dear Anon,

This request was amazing, and I don't think my writing can live up to it's greatness. Thank you for entrusting it to me and for waiting forever. I really hope you enjoy it!

Lots of love & Happy New Year!

Warnings: Peaky-type themes + Happy ending

You were crushed as you lay on the worn hardwood floor of your bedroom. All your family was suddenly gone leaving you out in the world on your own. In a year you would have an impressive estate to fall back on, but as for now, it was their request to send you to England. You looked up at the floral wallpaper suddenly determined to commit it to memory, once you walked out that door this, this, this energy…. You struggled to label what exactly would be ripped from you once you walked out the door. All you knew was that everything would become real the second your feet touched the bottom of the front steps.

The possibility, no matter how stupid, of them simply being on a long trip would become a distant dream. They would officially be dead.

They had a family friend who had called on the phone to let you know he had arranged everything. His gruff voice made you weary. You didn't like men, but strange men you would live with, in a foreign country? Absolute no. You were very aware that they were probably murdered and if sending you to this man was their wish you knew it was because he would protect you.

Anger was boiling under your skin overshadowing the deep grief you were experiencing. People had you packed up out of your childhood home on a boat before the dirt had been poured over their coffins.

Over the long journey, your mind ran rampant over the finer details of your life. Your father was English, what if this was just an elaborate plot to drag you down into that life. He was an abnormally cruel man, keeping your mum sedated with drugs, and spending her money. What if he was the one to murder them? Getting his hands on you only to gain their estate money…. Your body started to spin out of control at the thought.

Your Grandmother was a Scottish woman with a hellfire temper, seeing what was happening in the home she’d removed you. You squeezed your eyes tightly knowing she’d never be there to hold you again.

They were good people, they taught you to be a good person despite the heartache that came from being stood up and endangered countless times by your parents. You made a promise to yourself that if things were rough, or if they were improper in any way you would leave and use the little money you saved up to find your Grandma’s sister in Glasgow.

After what felt like an eternity, but also a very short and hazy amount of time you had arrived. You watched as black cars pulled up and a very well-dressed man got out. His employees took your suitcases from your hands and you initially flinched at the attention.

Mr.Solomons was massive. Both physically and in personality. He came up to you and squeezed your slender frame in a crushing hug.

“Sorry ‘bout the family, love.” He grumbled.

“Thanks,” You said breathlessly as he squashed you.

_____________________________________

Despite being a rather posh group of people he could tell she’d not been treated properly in her life. Jumpy, timid, and refused to make eye contact. She was bat-shit scared of the situation.

He thought about taking her down to Arrow House. Dropping her off with her proper extended family. Thinking of the New Years' party he attend with the maids whoring themselves out, he thought it best to hold on to her a bit. Thomas was a lot of things and none she would find comfort in. Not that he was much better, but at least the beach house only kept a small staff, two maids, and one cook. All female and all well into their 60’s.

Alfie watched as she slowly settled in after a few weeks. He tried his best to act in a predictable manner in an attempt to scare her less. She asked a million questions about what he did, he knew she wasn't stupid so he told her the lighter version of the truth.

A mistake.

But she eventually calmed down enough to come to dinner and question him some more about morality and ethical values.

Give it another week and she was helping in the front bakery. She made all sorts of treats he’d not heard of before and insisted that single mothers or folks struggling didn't have to pay. He’d wanted to argue but he could still see that she was hanging on by the thread and needed a project more than a business lecture.

She’d finally laugh with her whole belly, and tease him endlessly.

He’d just about gotten used to her presence when everything had to get blown up.

______________________________________________________________

You were just done telling Alfie that he smelled like a wet dog when a tall man in a funny hat came in.

“Can I help you?” You asked in a hesitant voice. Alfie had disappeared and it was just the man and you in the back warehouse of the bakery.

“Probably not, love. Where’s Alfie then?” There was a sharp edge in his voice that made you absolutely refuse to tell him.

“Who’s asking.”

“Arthur Shelby,” He said waiting for you to run and announce his presence.

“Yeah and I’m the Virgin Mary. Try again.” You crossed your arms across your chest. This is exactly the kind of thing you were expecting. Obviously, he’d send someone to ruin what bit of happiness Alfie had given you.

“Oi! What’s this ‘bout. That’s my fu-ck-ing name”

“No, it’s not. Arthur Shelby is a right useless cunt that’s probably too drunk to stand at this hour. Did he send you here then?”

“That’s- I am a man of God. Now enough of these stupid games. Go get Alfie” He cursed under his breath and you refused to be intimidated by him.

“NO.” You said sternly. “No man of God would pretend to be such a bastard. You should leave.”

“Look! I am on business. Can’t leave till it's done. Now get him the fuck out here”

You both entered a weird staring contest when you heard Alfie come down the stairs.

“Right little brat you have here,” Arthur growled and you sneered at him. “How many Arthur Shelbys are probably out th-”

“Do you mean Arthur William Shelby?” Another man asked stepping into the warehouse.

“See you do know him!” You growled.

“Your dad fucked about, that can’t be much of a shock to you,” Alfie said with a chuckle.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” The two men said in unison.

You watched as the men squared up against each other.

“Half-sister” Alfie pointed to you. “Her grandparents took her in when her mum went the same way your mum did. Must be his type.” Arthur looked like he was ready to punch him in the face. “Her Grandparents helped me with business in New York. Left her to me when they knew you lot were the only other option.”

Arthur spat on Alfie’s shoes. “Like you’re a better option?!” He handed Alfie an envelope. “You better call Thomas before I speak to him.” He stood there for a moment obviously contemplating whether he should attempt to fight Alfie or leave. “And this better not be some fucking joke.” He stormed off.

“You’re really his kid?” John said and you noticed the sadness in his eyes. You nodded and he turned around and followed after his brother.

You looked at Alfie and suddenly needed to sit down. He caught you before you landed on the floor. He placed you in a chair in his office.

“I don’t want to know any man -” You shook your head unable to finish the sentence. Obviously, something had to come crashing down. You’d become accustomed to your little cramped bedroom, eating breakfast in his office, and tea out by the water no matter how awful the weather was. He always listened and would ramble on about stuff that seemed completely useless. It wasn't home, but he made it feel more like an adventure. His hands were gripping the sides of your arms.

“Easy now, love.” He said softly. “It’s not that bad.”

“You knew I had family - His family around here and didn't say anything?”

“Well, they left you to me not them -”

“Alfie.”

“I didn’t think you would mix in with them right away. Figured you needed some space from everything.”

“Are they like him?”

“Gypsy trash? Mostly. Thomas is a right mess -” He sighed at your expression. “They aren’t that bad.”

“Lie”

“I like hating him. Were friends for the most part. His family is pure chaos, but he treats them well enough.” He squeezed your arm. “Wanted to give you a bit of time before introducing them.”

Tears started to prickle in the corners of your eyes.

“I wouldn’t send you anywhere I thought wasn’t safe. Despite being a right pain in the ass, you're not a terrible person. Don’t deserve to live with terrible people.”

________________________________________________

Tommy made his phone calls. Got all the evidence together, all of it pointing to him having a half-sister. With this knowledge came a heavy dilemma.

Bring her into the never-ending mess. Or let her live a nice life with all that money.

He thought about her being with Alfie, not much different than having her here?

He groaned pouring another glass of whiskey.

Fucking fuck. He thought about his dad and settled into the familiar acidity of his anger.

He made the phone call.

“Thomas.”

“Alfie.” He took a long drag of his cigarette. “Got my sister there?”

“She’s in bed.”

“Bring her around then. I’ll take her in.”

“She’s not a bloody horse Tom”

“How old is she?”

“18”

“Why bother with her then, eh?” She was an adult no reason to keep her.

“She’s in my care till she’s 19. That’s how it is ‘cross the pond.”

He sore silently.

“Still she’s my family. Should have her here.”

“Exactly what her grandparents didn’t want. I don’t know your father but he did a right number on her.”

“On all of us,” Tommy answered bitterly instantly regretting expressing that to Alfie. He thought of the poor girl and felt for her. “Just bring her around eh? She can decide. But I need to speak with her.”

“I’ll ask her. She’s flighty when it comes to the business though. M’ not having her over there with maids whoring about and men getting shot in the parking lot.”

“Fuck sake! It was one party, ages ago, that got out of hand.” He pinched the bridge of his nose.

“That’s because you party like fucking savages!”

“We've got kids now- things are different-”

“Fuck off - you lot are always running from things! “

“From what?! All my fucking money?!”

“Alfie?” a quiet voice interrupted whatever he was going to reply with and suddenly the line went dead. Fucking idiot, they always bitch at each other like schoolchildren. Not even Arthur or John act like that.

He climbed the stairs and got into bed next to Lizzie.

“She’s your sister then?” She asked in the dark. He didn't respond. “Can always tell when you're talking to him - shouting your bloody head off.”

“I don’t want her to stay with him. Just the two of them in that dusty house. It’s not right.”

“Have her over then.”

“That’s the plan.”

Lizzie made a soft sound before coming over to press against his side. He didn't sleep.

Waking up in the morning he called the family in. Feeling stupid for overlooking one specific and glaringly obvious issue.

Polly.

The girl stood in the entryway looking equal parts terrified and ready for a fight. Polly looked over the girl in a way that told Thomas everything he needed to know. She’d be a part of the family no matter what anyone wanted to say about it.

Two weeks after Michael left to go back to his adoptive parents. A month after hearing that her daughter had died. Now there was an awkward lanky girl, with eyes that had seen too much, looking back at her. A need was filled.

Looking at Alfie it was obvious that it bothered him. Why he’d grown attached to her, for his sake, better have been a paternal thing.

“We have some business,” He said to the girl once the introductions took place she gave a nod and followed him with her head held high. He wasn’t surprised to see Polly following closely behind her.

Alfie decided to stay in the entryway and harass Arthur some more.

He motioned to a chair and she took a seat looking around the space. Polly’s eyes watched her like she was a showhorse up for bid.

“You knew my father then?” Her face twisted up and he realized he probably could have started things off in a better way.

“Yes. And I’m almost certain he killed my grandparents. That’s why I’m here with Alfie. So if you're in on his plan” She leaned on the desk and stared at him. “I see you.”

“Haven't seen him in years. Don’t need the extra cash either” He motioned to the house. That seemed to appease her slightly as she leaned back into the chair.

“He is an awful man and if this is where he would go when he wasn't drugging my mum or making my life hell then I want nothing to do with you lot.”

“Not here with us.” He confirmed wondering where on earth he was now. “I don’t like the thought of my sister alone in that junk museum with a potential enemy.”

“Alfie’s fine.”

“When he wants to be.” He answer wondering why he cared.

“Same as you, no?” She challenged.

“Look, let’s just get to know each other. We are family, one more at the table is a blessing. We have no other motives going on. It’s not much of a shock that you're here, I just wish it was under better circumstances.” Polly said squeezing her shoulder. “Alfie has been unpredictable in the past, but he is a good friend of the family. Both of you can come around whenever.”

“Thank you.” The girl responded with a small smile. “If we really are all on the same side. Perhaps you could help me find out what happened to my Grandparents?”

“I-”

“Of course, we can, love. We know lots of people in New York.” Polly responded before he could tell her it was better to let these things be forgotten.

___________________________________

You sat in at dinner and found yourself having to leave the room for laughing so hard. Tommy and Alfie were like cat and dog. If anything they seemed more married than anyone else at the table. They clearly had a long history.

You stepped out on one of the balconies trying to catch your breath. Everyone told you that laugh was not table-appropriate and you didn't want to offend these people.

Suddenly the door opened and Ada walked out. She gave you another look over and touched your cheek.

“Can’t believe I have a proper sister.” She said in a warm tone.

‘Half-” You were going to correct her but she cut you off.

“Same thing. You look like things weren’t the best for you growing up and I wanted to tell you I can relate. I remember dad too clearly. I really wish I didn’t.” She gave you a sad smile and you realized that they had him around all the time when they were young. Not just here and there when he wasn't on long trips.

You tried to say something but just ended up silent hands making an awkward gesture.

“Don’t have to explain it.” She tucked your hair behind your ear. “I hope we can get to know each other better. Do our hair, go out, gossip. I always felt so jealous of my friends who had sisters.”

You thought about how nice that sounded and gave her a nod.

“I’d like that a lot.”

“I’ll warn you though.” Your stomach twisted up waiting for her to tell you something horrible. “Polly’s found out her daughter that was taken from her died, and her son went back to his foster parents recently - it’s a long story - She’s probably going to try and smother you.”

“Really?”

“Oh yeah. Every time we see a baby in a carriage she starts crying. It’s not been an easy time for her lately. Just try to humor her if you can. I’ll be staying here for a while with Karl. Nice to have the family around to help out with him.”

“That’s your son?”

“Yes! I’ll introduce you to all the kids in the morning.” She smiled brightly and you got excited at the idea of being an aunt.

“Esme will also probably want to recruit you. The boys always end up outnumbering us so I’m sure she’ll be happy-”

“Stop making me sound like I’m a cult leader!” Esme whispered taking the cigarette out of Ada’s hand. “I’m just saying that Tommy needs to be kept in line - look at her she’s got fight in her eyes!” They both looked at you causing a thick blush to cover your cheeks. Just then Lizzie showed up.

“Oi stop making me sound like a bad wife! I keep in check plenty these days thank you.”

“Maybe you could use another round of that, looking a little tense, love.” Esme pinched her bottom and she slapped her playfully.

“Cult of bad wives or whatever nonsense they were corrupting you with - It’s lovely to have you around. Got a nice laugh.”

“No! I know it’s horrible I wasn't allowed to laugh too much- that’s why I came out here -” You stuttered trying to explain.

“They wouldn't let you laugh?” Polly interrupted closing the patio door behind her.

“I mean it wasn't proper for me to laugh like that.” You crooked your head to the side wondering why that wasn't obvious to them.

“YOU LOT BEST BEHAVE YOURSELVES!” Tommy called out loudly interrupting his current argument with Alfie.

You started laughing again much to their delight.

“As you can see we are not the most proper.” Lizzie did a little wave with her hand.

“You all spend a lot of time together?” Suddenly you wanted to be cool like them. The way they all looked different but so pretty. Esme had wild hair and dark makeup, Lizzie looked like she belonged on the cover of an expensive fashion magazine, Polly looked like a part of her was owned by a force of nature, and Ada was soft but elegant.

“You could say that!” They laughed

“The boys are always out-”

“Better than being alone -”

You nodded. You never had real friends growing up, certainly none like this.

“Don’t worry, love. We will corrupt you in due time.” Esme said with a wink.

You got pulled into the kitchen and watched as they got louder and louder. Loud enough that Thomas came in eventually with his sleeves rolled up and his face red.

“How could you possibly be louder than us eh?” He looked angry till a smile broke out on his face and he went over to kiss Lizzie’s cheek.

“Hope you lot haven’t melted her brains” Alfie grumbled but also looked in good spirits. The rest of the boys, your brothers piled in. Finn was around the same age as you a fact that made your heart hurt a little bit. His dad spent all his time tormenting you instead of being there for him. Would he see that as a blessing or a curse? He shook your hand and started up with a million questions about New York and your funny accent. His friend sat down beside you resting his arm on the back of your chair.

He reached out his hand “Isaiah”

You introduced yourself, shaking his hand. The two boys went back and forth asking different things. It was nice to be with people your own age. The three of you chattered on and then quieted down to listen to Alfie’s story.

You burst out laughing and all the women started cheering you on turning your face a deep shade of crimson.

“I like that laugh,” Isaiah said quietly and the thought of staying around here wasn't so bad suddenly.

_______________________

You were torn, but you decided to go back with Alfie in the early morning. Polly made you promise to call once you got it and wrote down eight different numbers to reach her at in case of emergency or just in case I wanted to talk.

You smiled at her and saw a familiar feeling behind her eyes as she kissed your cheek.

On the drive home, Alfie mumbled about how they are a good lot of bad people. Something you would have to embrace unless you wanted to go off on your own.

“Thanks for going with me.” You said once settled in the beach house.

“No need to thank me.” He said brushing you off.

“If I were to go live with them, could I still work at the bakery?”

“Of course.” He gave you a tight smile and you felt bad for him being shut up in the house all the time.

“Can I stay over sometimes too? I love all of them but the kids, and the horses, and its - erm - a lot at times?”

“My house is always open to you, no matter what.” He patted your shoulder and you went off to bed.

Polly fussing over her unsure of what bad stuff had happened to her over the years. Wanting to help her figure out what actually happened to her Grandparents and starting one of those massive pinboards with string in the sitting room trying to help her piece it all together. Eventually, Esme and Lizzie got really invested in helping. Thomas wondering what's going on and poking his head in and all of them shouting at him to leave. Him muttering Women under his breath but sneaking in at night to circle a few things he thought was important in the evidence anyway.

Them actually cracking the case and being surprised when she wakes up to a newspaper on the kitchen table saying that a local Jewish gang was suspected in the murder of Arthur William Shelby Senior.

Being shocked and watching as the family all came over to the house. You finding it weird that they spend more time talking to you about your grandparents than they did mourn their father. Once they were sure you were alright the celebratory drinking started.

Isaiah suddenly always wanting to come over and hang out around Arrow House or Polly’s place whenever you were there. Finn teasing him endless amounts but also making it very clear that if it ended badly that Finn would do his job as your brother.

Alfie coming over constantly to bother Thomas and slowly becoming more of an uncle in your eyes. Always around to cause trouble.

Ruby fell in love with you, always insisting loudly that you had to be the one to carry her around. She’d often bust into your room at strange times to see if you wanted to play. Once you came up to your room to find her asleep in your bed.

Finally being able to laugh and speak your mind about literally anything. Listening to them rant about things or poke fun at you. Shopping, parties, trips to London to shop and party some more. You thought it funny that they would go to parties basically just to watch people and only interact with themselves despite always being around each other. The gossip was always very spicy.

Isaiah and you getting caught kissing on a street corner after a romantic date. A friend of Lizzie calling her saying she saw you. That going dramatically across the phone tree leading to you coming home and getting dragged into the kitchen for whiskey and interrogation. Was it good? Did he use tongue? Where were his hands? Did he walk you to the door or just wait in the car? He did wait to see that you got in right?!

Isaiah dealing with Tommy in the office when Alfie shows up and both of them being over protective dads.

Finally, your 19th birthday rolls around. Finn saying that he felt you might leave, try being on your own for a bit, or that maybe Isaiah would propose. Polly overhearing it and starting to worry about you to the point where she sits you down and has a long talk about what it’s like being on your own and the head of a house, what it's like being married. You interpret this as them feeling like you should leave. Esme catching you in your bathroom crying as she dropped your dress for the party off. Clearing up the misunderstanding she wipes the tears from your face and does your makeup for you. “I’m not ready to be a grown-up.” You whisper looking up at her dark eyes. The warm glow of your pink bathroom makes you feel even smaller. “Look you’ve got a hot boyfriend that your family will literally kill if he hurts you, a hot dress to wear, and your makeup is finally done properly. Party is going to be amazing because I planned most of it. All of this is growing up. With this much love, it won’t be so bad.” She kissed your forehead. “All that stuff Polly told you was about her life. Back then she didn’t have anyone as cool as us watching her back.”

The party becoming an absolute mess with some business deal going on in the background. Isaiah defending her bravely then going in for a big kiss in the middle of the entryway as things around them are falling apart. Guns firing, people screaming and throwing things. The whole thing wrapping up and you sitting in his lap in the kitchen sipping a whiskey out of his glass. The family finally feeling like he earned your attention and leaving you both alone for once.

#Peaky blinders #Peaky blinders imagine #peaky blinders fanfic #peaky blinders request #peaky blinders fic #tommy shelby #alfie solomons #shelby family #Shelby family imagine #Shelby family fic

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chaosinkest1996 · 6 months

Text

First Blood

This work is inspired by the spooky season. The OC of Lilith Rose Shelby is my own. The character of Scarlet Shelby belongs to @zablife. I hope you're not offended that I included her. She inspired me with her Shelby energy and in addition you inspired me to write something of my own an post it. So @zablife this is for you, Lee. Hope you like it.

TW: Violence. Domestic Abuse. Lilith is a child for most of this story.

It was true of The Shelby clan that they produced more demons than angels. At least, that was the myth gossiped by the priest and the locals down watery lane. At the age of six Lilith hadn’t really understood why that might have been a bad thing, she just marvelled how that seemed to link them closer to God than most other families. Besides there was only one real demon in that family. Lilith was four when she’d learned not to trust her father. Five when she learned to fear him. And it was only a matter of time before she learned to despise him. Arthur Shelby Sr. was a dreadful human being, a despicable father, and an utter bastard. She’d learned she’d receive no love from him only on her last birthday when he’d announced she’d disappointed him by not being a boy. Naturally, she impaled a fork into his hand and when he’d raised his fist to beat her, Polly had held a knife to his throat. The look on the old weasel’s face had been the best birthday gift her aunt could have got her. Of all the children he had spawned, Arthur seemed to hate his youngest daughter the most. Lilith had been trained by Polly and her mother, as all the other Shelby siblings had been, to avoid their father when he was at home. She’d never known why her mother loved him so much.

Lilith adored her mother. Anna Shelby was the beauty of small health. She was a gypsy princess of Irish and Russian descent. She was a songbird with a sensitive heart…and the gift. Some whispered she’d been granted it by the devil, who had taken her for his mistress, in recent years. Polly had scoffed when she’d heard Ada repeat what she’d heard….and yet, Polly wouldn’t meet Lilith’s curious gaze. Anna had met and settled down with Arthur Shelby Sr. when her family had settled close to Birmingham. From what Lilith had gathered, her parents' romance had been idyllic, a fairy tale. And so here she was, two years later at the age of eight, sitting in the kitchen listening to her father shout at her mother and she found herself wandering where it had all gone wrong for the two of them. Polly had gone to the shop and she’d taken Finn. Everyone else had been out of the house when Arthur Sr. had returned to the house from wherever the fuck he'd been. Lilith was the first one back from school, she’d snook in when she’d heard her father swearing and slurring his words in the sitting room. She stared at his jacket in front of her, draped over another chair. Her nose wrinkled as the stench of alcohol assaulted her. Lilith frowned, gritting her teeth when she heard her mother, normally calm and softly spoken, raise her voice. The door was closed, so she couldn’t hear her clearly. Not that it mattered. Arthur’s voice rose above her in volume seconds later and then she heard Anna begin to cry. The sound pulled on Lilith’s heartstrings and tugged at her tear ducts. She slid off the chair and approached the sitting room.

If daddy wants to shout at someone, he can shout at me.

But as she grasped the handle and turned it slightly, she hesitated. He didn’t know she was there, neither of them did. She could sneak out and fetch Tommy. Her eyes lit up at the prospect of her favorite big brother breaking her father’s wrist…or face. Either would be fine. Yes, that would do, he could pick on someone his own size. Someone who wasn’t frightened of him. Lilith turned and ran to fetch Tommy. She got as far as the back door when she heard it. The sound of her mother falling. She froze, shivering all over. Lilith wasn’t sure what she’d heard until she returned to the sitting room door, her feet having taken her there involuntarily. She stood at the crack in the door, peeping through at her mother. Anna was on the floor, clutching her head from where she’d bashed it on the chair leg. Arthur stood over her, laughing silently at her with his cruel mean eyes.

“Arthur, please. Please, Arthur. I’m sorry I shouted, I won’t do it again. Please, Arthur. No. No. Stop, No! Please!”

Anna’s quiet pleading, her soft, heartbroken begging dissolved into sobs and cries of pain as Arthur descended upon her with his fists. Anna did her best to fend him off, but he was so much stronger than her. Lilith watched mouth agape in horror and eyes streaming with tears as her mother submitted herself to the torture and curled up as best as she could to protect herself.

How long had this been happening? All of her life?

Lilith had never questioned it when her father had tried to hurt her. As far as she was aware it was customary for all fathers to beat their children when they’d disobeyed or angered them. She’d never thought for a second that he’d hurt her mother though. Not when Anna doted on him. The only person in the world capable of loving him…and he treated her like that.

Anna released a loud wail as Arthur pulled her hair back and smacked her hard on the mouth. Lilith, unable to stand her mother’s sobs any longer nor the sound of Arthur’s flesh impacting violently against Anna’s delicate figure, sprinted to the kitchen, desperate to do something, anything to help her mother. Climbing up on Tommy’s chair, she pulled open one of the draws and picked it up. The kitchen knife was heavy in her hand, weighing her delicate little arm down. But she held it firm, hopping back down off the counter and landing silently…not that her father would have heard her over his own shouts. Lilith watched him, hulking over her mother like some kind of monstrous animal, drunk and cruel as ever he could be.

“Mad bitch.” He called Anna. She didn’t deserve that.

Mummy, how can you love him?

Something cold and angry in Lilith snapped and hissed angrily inside her. It was vicious and crimson and she swallowed the venom it offered her with determination. Lilith didn’t love him. That was something she was certain of as she stepped into the sitting room, approaching him from behind, quiet as she could be so he didn’t hear her. The blade glinted in the sunlight as she sprang at him from behind. Arthur Sr. Yelped out in agony as the sharp blade sank into his thigh. It heightened to a scream as Lilith ripped it out and plunged it back into his knee. She delighted in the noise he made, pleased that he was the one making it instead of Anna. The last thing Lilith registered before the bloodlust descended and the noise fell away was the sound of metal slicing through bone.

“GET!” His knee buckled as she pulled the blade out once again. Lilith continued her assault mercilessly as she tore at him with the knife. “OFF!” His calf, his thigh again, his other leg, his foot, his forearm, his shoulder. “MY!” Nothing else mattered except the look of utter horror on his ugly twisted features. “MUMMY!” He tried to grab at her once but she was fast and small, easily blocking his arms. “YOU!” The sharp end of the knife went through his palm and his breath hitched, eyes widening when she yanked it back out. “MONSTER!” She hoped it was as painful as it looked. She was so numb, so far gone that she didn’t hear the door open. She didn’t see them all rushing in. She didn’t see Polly gasp, her hands cupping her mouth, eyes wide. the shopping in her hands crashing loudly to the floor. She didn’t see Finn, flinching back behind Polly’s skirts eyes scrunched closed. She didn’t hear John swear or Scarlet drop her nursing books. She didn’t feel the vibration of them clunking to the floor. She didn’t see Ada rush to her mother and wrapping a blanket around her shoulders. She didn’t hear Arthur yelling for her to stop. She didn’t see Tommy look between the three of them, putting two and two together. What a sight she must have been for them. An eight-year-old girl splattered from head to toe in her father’s blood.

In the end, it was Anna’s voice that cut through the bloodlust.

“Lily! Lily, darling stop! Please! Stop! You’ll kill him.” Anna cried, pushing herself up off the floor.

“WHAT DOES IT MATTER?” Lilith embedded the knife into his other knee with a sickening crunch. “HE HURT YOU!” Arthur Sr. squealed like a pig. Ripping it out once more she raised her blade again when a strong hand gripped her wrist until her grip loosened and the blade fell, clattering to the floor. She was lifted with ease away from her father and spun until she was face to face with Tommy as he shielded her view of him. She’d been so lost in the moment that she hadn’t heard them come in. All of them. Polly picked the knife up off the floor and wiped it with her skirt. Lilith looked Tommy in the eyes. Those big ocean-blue eyes were wide with utter terror as he checked her over.

“Are you hurt, Lily petal?” He asked urgently. The numbness melted away. The damn broke and emotion flooded in.

“I’m not sorry Tommy! I’m not sorry!” She wailed. “He was hitting mummy! He deserved it!” Her voice cracked and her breath stuttered as she burrowed her head into his neck. Tommy embraced her without a second thought, rocking her back and forth in as calming a manner as he could think.

Lilith’s accusations rang out into the shell-shocked room. Polly was the first to take action.

“Get up!” She snapped at her brother. His angry little eyes glowered back at her in spite of the pain rocketing through him. Polly sighed, irritated. “Scarlet, Arthur, help your father onto the settee. Ada grab a sheet to cover it with. Scarlet, I want you to help me sew him up. John, go and bribe Doctor Clarkson to come and help. Anna,” She paused, looking at her good sister. She softened instantly seeing the bruises already forming on her melancholic face. “Are you badly hurt?” Anna parted her lips, ready to speak when Lilith wriggled and vaulted out of Tommy’s hold, running to her mother.

“I’m sorry, mummy! I’m sorry! Please don’t be angry with me.” Lilith wailed. Anna’s eyes welled with tears. She pulled her youngest daughter into her arms and embraced her tightly.

“I’m not angry.” Her voice wobbled. “I’ll never be angry with you. Only sad. You protected me. You shouldn’t have had to do that, petal.” Ada returned, covering the settee with a spare old bedsheet. Arthur Sr. wheezed as Arthur and a rather reluctant Scarlet helped him up (with minimal care on her part) and to the settee. He opened his mouth and Scarlet punched one of his injuries hard. It bloomed red and he hissed in pain.

“You say a word and I’ll make sure you’re hurting more than you are already!” She snapped.

“Don’t be harsh, Scar, he’s our dad. Where’s that bedside manner you were telling us about?” Arthur Jr. asked, trying to ease the tension.

“He doesn’t fucking deserve it, Arthur.” She shot him a sharp look. Before looking at Tommy. “You’ll have to help Arthur take Dad’s trousers off.” Her older brother scowled at the prospect but stalked over nonetheless. The door flung open once again as John returned, very much out of breath. He nearly doubled over with exhaustion. Behind him waddled in, Doctor Clarkson, flushed and barely upright himself. The old doctor had just righted himself when his eyes widened and his mouth fell open as he looked at his patient.

“Can you fix ‘im?” Polly asked, eyes sharp on the old man. Doctor Clarkson’s resemblance to a deer in headlights heightened as his eyes darted around the room. The empathy seeped back into them when he caught sight of Anna and Lilith, bruised and bloody. He straightened and stepped forward.

“Let me look at him.”

“It would be preferable if he didn’t have to go to a hospital.” Tommy spoke calmly. “People will talk.” Doctor Clarkson approached Arthur Sr. and carefully examined his injuries. The look of concern on his elderly face deepened.

“You’re lucky. They’re not too deep, for the most part, easy enough to handle.” The doctor removed his jacket and rolled up his sleeves.

“Scarlet and I can help.” Polly suggested. The doctor nodded.

“That would be sufficient.” He opened his physician’s bag, pulling out what he needed. “What worries me are these.” He pointed at Arthur’s knees, hand and ankle. “The knife has penetrated bone.” He paused, lowering his voice for only Polly to hear. “I take it the child was defending her mother?” Polly nodded. “She did a thorough job.” He smiled at her. “He’ll need a hospital.”

“No!” Tommy’s deep voice cut through the conversation. “He’s got a big mouth, he’ll talk.”

“And what will he say, Mr. Shelby? That his eight-year-old daughter did this to him?”

“He has a point.” John spoke up. “No one would believe him.”

“Not only does it sound far-fetched.” Ada sat down and locked eyes with her father. She maintained the stare. “Think of the humiliation.”

“He doesn’t have to say it was Lily. He could say it was any of us.”

“No Tom!” Arthur looked pleadingly at his brother, “It’s dad, he wouldn’t rat on any of us.” Tommy shook his head at Arthur’s naivety. He was still just a young boy at heart, wanting to please his father.

“Arthur, why don’t you help Ada make some tea?” Polly suggested. Arthur opened his mouth ready to argue when Ada took his hand.

“Come on.” She pulled him through to the kitchen. When Tommy was sure he was out of ear shot, he stood over his father, looking down on him with disdain.

“He can go to a hospital.” He spoke to Doctor Clarkson. “But it can’t be in small heath.”

“I can send him to a colleague of mine in London.”

“I have one condition.”

“Name it.”

“It’s not for you, it’s for him. And before I let him out of this house, he’ll have to agree to it.”

“What is it, boy?” His father spat.

“You’ll be gone in the morning. You’ll leave small heath, and you’ll never ever come back.”

“Tommy-” Anna’s voice was sad.

“No, mum.” Tommy stood firm, “He’s made us miserable for long enough. If he knows what’s good for him he’ll leave.”

“He can be someone else’s problem.” Polly said. Arthur Sr. looked disgruntled as he thought it through. Lilith didn’t know what possessed her to look at him, or to approach, but she suddenly found herself stood in front of him.

“You hate us all, daddy. So just say yes.” Her dark onyx eyes stared into him and he shifted uncomfortably, and yet unable to look away. He nodded to Tommy.

“I’ll do it. I’ll leave. I swear, I won’t come back.” At his words, Anna began to softly cry again, looking at the floor in shame. Lilith maintained eye contact with her father. A battle of wills being fought between them. No way in hell would she be bullied by him. She smirked, recalling how he squealed when she’d butchered him.

“I’m not sorry.” She whispered. “Don’t ever come back.”

*****

He was gone. It was done. Lilith had watched from the top of the stairs as they’d taken him to the canal boat Uncle Charlie had prepared. He’d not asked questions when Tommy had spoken quietly with him. He’d simply looked at Anna and agreed to whatever Tommy had told him. Anna had been inconsolable for the better part of the evening. Arthur Sr. never once looked at his wife as he was carted off to the canal boat that would take him to the infirmary in London. Even as she called his name tenderly.

“Have you nothing to say?!” Polly snapped at him, arm wrapped around Anna’s shoulders. The horrible excuse for a husband merely gritted his teeth and stared hard ahead. Ignoring Anna like it was all her fault. Ada had stripped Lilith bare and bathed her, tenderly cleansing the blood on her hands and face. John took her dress and the bed sheet and built a fire in the backyard for them.

“I’m not sorry.” Lilith kept saying quietly as she rocked back and forth in the warm water. “I’m not sorry.” She looked up at Polly when she came and joined them, alone. “Where’s mummy?”

“She’s gone to bed, darling.”

“I’ve made her sad, haven’t I?” Tears welled in Lilith’s eyes. “I don’t want mummy to go away again. Not like she did before. I want her to be happy. I want her to stay.” Polly hushed her, kissing her forehead soothingly as she took the soap and began to wash Lilith’s thick dark hair.

“Nonsense. You could never make your mother sad.” She stopped and leaned into whisper. “You and Tommy are her favourites.” She winked and Lilith managed a wobbly smile. “Loving my idiot brother made her sad.”

“Why does she love him?” Lilith asked curiously. Her forehead crinkled as she concentrated on the thought. Lilith couldn’t understand what her father had about him that made her mother care about him.”

“It’s a mystery to us all.” Polly scoffed as she rinsed the suds out of Lilith’s hair, the soft pads of her fingers massaging the little girl’s scalp. Lilith’s eyes fluttered as her body grew relaxed and sleepy. “But,” Polly began again, sounding sadder than before, “Your father wasn’t always like this. Once upon a time he was charming, handsome and good natured.” She sighed. “Life changed him.”

“I hope life doesn’t change me like that.”

“It won’t. I’ll make sure it doesn’t.”

*****

Cobalt eyes watch her through the crack in the door. Her small hands are clutching Polly’s cards as she places them on the table, humming happily as she does so.

“Come on in Tommy and close the door.” She calls behind her. “It’s cold.” Tommy enters without hesitation, her innocent voice like a spell over him. There was something uncanny about how she seemed to know when Thomas was close to her. Like they were linked by an invisible string. Light and Dark. Two sides of the same coin.

“What are you doing with those ey?” He asked, as he pulled out the chair beside her and sat, pulling out a cigarette and lighting it.

“Polly said I could read if he would ever come back,” Lilith spoke matter of factly. Tommy went cold.

Yes, Polly. Good idea to let my eight-year-old sister delve into gypsy magic without supervision.

“He won’t, Lily. Daddy’s gone, alright. I promise, he’s not coming back.” The firmness in her voice caught her off guard and she looked up at him. Onyx met cobalt and his certainty, his confidence was shaken.

“He will.” She spoke quietly. “But don’t worry, I’ll be older and less helpless. Besides, I’ve taken a precaution.” Something in the way she spoke made him nervous. Worry chiselled away at him. He cleared his throat.

“What precaution?”

Lilith smiled as she looked at Tommy. She pointed at the tarot deck.

“There’s you.” She pointed at The Chariot card. “There’s me.” She pointed at The Empress. “And there’s daddy in the middle.” She pointed to the card nestled between the other two. The Emperor. “With his head cut off.”

Tommy paled and shuddered at the way she spoke it dreamily. Polly’s small pocket knife (which she’d no doubt stolen from her aunt) was still lodged in the wood of the table where she had sliced the top half of The Emperor’s card. He knelt down beside Lilith at the table, taking her small hands in his, making her look at him.

“I know he frightened you and hurt mummy. And I’m sorry I wasn’t there to protect you. But I promise you, he’ll never be allowed to hurt any of us ever again.”

“I know.” She smiled.

*****

Anna threw herself into the canal a week later. Lilith had been inconsolable as she'd watched Uncle Charlie pull her mother's corpse from the water, cursing her father for his part in Anna’s misery. She hid herself away, refusing to talk about her mother and festering in her rage. Tommy should have known then what she’d be capable of. Instead, he’d had to wait fifteen years to hear about it. He’d dressed it up all nice for Arthur. Invented an imaginary woman, two scoundrels, and a gun. He’d had Mary the maid forge the letter and told the rest of his siblings that their father had died on the other side of the world. The truth was too terrible. No one needed to know that Alfie had witnessed her standing over their father like an angel of vengeance whilst he begged for mercy and told her she looked like her mother. No one needed to know that he’d been found down a dark alley in Camden, head viciously severed from his body.

And there’s Daddy, with his head cut off.

Tommy drained the whiskey from his tumbler and shuddered. Yes, it was true. The Shelby clan did indeed produce more demons than angels. And Lilith Rose Shelby, though Thomas loved her with all of his heart, was the most dangerous kind of demon…. she was an angel who didn’t know she’d fallen yet.

#peaky blinder fanfic #tommy shelby #arthur shelby #john shelby #finn shelby #polly gray #ada shelby #Tommy Shelby x reader platonic #tommy shelby x sister!reader #Scarlet Shelby #Lilith Rose Shelby

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saintsir4n · 9 months

Text

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1914

EDEN Dawkins was never the type that liked nature, instead, she preferred to be at home, reading or even at the Garrison to have a quick drink, especially after a long day nursing concussions, illness or even bruises and cut lips from the local bandits. She steered away from horses because her mother inspired a fear of them in her from a young age. But here she was, in Charlie Strong's yard, wearing her worst outfit, trousers, a thick shirt and riding boots that she brought for cheap and mended them.

When she met the icy pair of eyes that were beaming at the sight of her she tutted.

"I have a man Mr Shelby and he wouldn't want someone like you around me."

"And what am I like then eh?" Tommy asked, staring across his uncle's yard at her.

She shrugged, "A gangster, typa man to pull a gun on someone for looking at him wrong."

"He's got that right, I would. But he's missed something," he paused, coming closer to her, dodging the copious amounts of horse manure and loose hay he no doubt will have to sweep up.

"And what's that?" she withheld a smile when he appeared in front of her.

"I would pull the trigger if they looked at my woman wrong as well."

He caught the glimmer of happiness swimming in her brown pools as he inhaled the faint scent of cedar wood (his favourite smell) and alcohol, which she used as an anaesthetic at work earlier today. Breathing in, all she could sense was the whiskey, cigarettes and aftershave, Tommy's natural musk. She was sure that he would add the stench of a barrel to that as well.

"Oh really?" she teased, dodging his kiss by pressing a hand to his chest, "We shouldn't, I'm taken."

He rolled his eyes, "This man can't be too good if he lets you around me."

She hummed, "Suppose you're right, he's not the tallest."

"Oi." he would've thrown her over his shoulders then and there but he knew Curly was around somewhere and hated seeing him being rough with Eden, even if it was a joke.

"Or the sharpest tool in the shed."

"Thinking of our Arthur are ya?"

She tapped her chin, "Perhaps but the prettiest one of you boys is definitely Johnny."

"Watch it," she could hear the amusement in his tone.

A smile tugged at her lips, "Only messing, now can I get a kiss?"

He blinked at her, "Want one from the smallest, ugliest Shelby?"

"Half of that is true...alright I'll stop, you're the most dashing man I've ever seen," she gushed, running her hands over his patchy jacket and up to his neck.

Fighting off the blush breaching his cheeks, he said, "And you're not too bad you're self."

"Leaving," Her smile dropped as she tried stepping around him, but his hands caught her waist.

"Calm yourself down, you know how many times I've had to fight someone off for hearing what they've said about you and your looks? I feel like I'm punching every man in Small Heath for underselling your beauty. Pretty don't do you, Justice, so I'll kiss you until I think of a word that does."

And with that, she melted into the kiss he'd been trying to steal.

Tommy and Eden had been dating for a couple of months and it hadn't been easy. Glares were thrown her way more than usual and jaws clenched around the couple like they had something to say but never did.

During this time, the quaint betting shop the Shelbys owned was drawing much more traction, more customers came in to put down money for whatever horse they believed would win and even though the family sometimes lost out money, they were still happy with their winnings. Considering it had been two years since they'd opened the shop, four since Arthur Sr left and five years had passed since Mara Shelby took her own life; their family was doing well.

"Not yet Thomas," she said when he suggested that she should come and see the new horse he'd been training.

"Thomas? You mad at me?" he asked, racking his brain for when he last pissed her off and god knows it was a lot.

"No, I just don't think I'm ready and you said it yourself, he gets scared if you breathe 'round him."

"I said that months ago," he tugged her over to an old haystack that was hidden around the back of the barn where the wild Mustang he had taken a liking to resided, "Y'know I'll be next to you when I show him off."

"Still doesn't have a name?" he saw through her oblivion's deflection.

Taking her hand in his, he stared at her, making her gulp slightly.

Tommy always had the ability to look through her, like he was seeing her soul, his gaze was the most powerful thing she felt and yet she loved it as much as she hated it. His stare was suffocating and only when he decided to let go was when she could breathe again.

Deciding not to press the matter, because he was cautious of how anxious she became he glanced down, trailing his callous finger over the back of her hand. He did it whenever he couldn't find the right words to say. He adored her hands, so delicate to the touch, often growing envious of the patients she had to treat because they would feel these nimble and gentle things all over them.

Eden could see there was something on his mind and she didn't know what it was, for the past couple of times she'd seen him, he tended to randomly stop talking which confused her as his voice was both his defence and attack. Without meaning to, it was also his instrument that he could play and manipulate to his bidding only when he decided to tune it properly.

"What's wrong, have you gone mute?" her tone was soft, yet impatient, but that didn't stop him from playing with her hands.

He huffed out a chuckle, "No."

"Oh, Tom have you got something to say to me? Just spit it out..."

What she didn't know was how many people kept approaching him about how close she and Lorenzo Changretta were and despite knowing they were best friends, he hated it.

"Those fuckin' eyes."

"What about 'em?"

He took off his cap, "Can't say no to you when I stare into 'em."

"I–" she glanced down, furious about how easily his charm worked on her, "I didn't ask you anything other than for you to say what's on that mind of yours."

Tommy wanted some whiskey, no, needed it to calm his nerves and no he wasn't a nervous man, Polly thought that emotion skipped him. Any drink would calm him, Christ, if only his brothers brought him some, but he knew they were tucked away in the snug getting so drunk they properly couldn't walk home. He didn't know why, but he always hated being vulnerable about Eden, even after all these months, even when Freddie said, 'She's your woman, just tell her, Women are more loyal than men nowadays'. Eden was loyal, she was more than that, she was his His Eden. His little safe haven. Although religion never sat right with him, he believed she was sent to save him.

There was something that he wanted to tell her, something that she deserved to know since they were together and had been for more than any other relationship he'd been in.

But instead, he kissed her like a starved man, for which she was the forbidden fruit that was dangling right before him and he would be damned if anyone would prevent him from taking a bite.

Cupping the back of her head with one hand and using the other to guide her backwards, he poured the passion he felt into her, lapping her tongue with his and feeling up and down her sides. When she moaned his hand only drifted lower, yearning to rip the clothing from the skin he craved to touch.

But their intimacy had some bounds.

She pushed him off before he could leave her indecent.

"We can do it here, Tommy, you wouldn't risk anyone seeing me would ya? I know how jealous you get," she breathed out, still appearing flustered when he stared at her, licking his lips. Almost a minute went by before he let go of her. Her grin faded when he tugged her forward, so she felt his hardened state and whimpered, "Tom."

He dropped his gaze to her chest, "Just wanted you to know that your actions have fuckin' consequences."

"Alright fuck off."

A voice interrupted them, "Yes nephew, you better not knock her up Tom, I don't wanna have to deal with Pol."

The couple immediately snapped their heads to the side to see Charlie standing there, with combs and brushes in hand and a grimace on his face.

When Eden went to jump away from Tommy, he pulled her even closer.

"We were about to look at the fuckin' horse," he stated.

Charlie shot him a sarcastic look, "Oh is that what they call it nowadays?"

Eden averted her gaze, feeling severely embarrassed as the two men spoke Rokker, judging from Tommy's face he hasn't too happy, but Charlie continued to tease him.

Shortly after Curly appeared, the stableman was in his element whenever it involved horses, Tommy believed he was one of the best horsemen in England. Eden thought he was cute, and much easier to talk to than Charlie, perhaps it was because he didn't have much to say at all.

"Eden... Tom, Tommy, we're almost finished setting up the new boy, he's a bit scared, just have to be nice to him," he mustered out.

Eden timidly smiled at him and Tommy noticed how nervous she was.

"We'll be there soon," he said, taking her hand.

Charlie frowned, "Don't be too long, it's Sunday, can't be missin’ out on Sunday dinners can we?"

"Alright alright."

And with that, the two men disappeared back into the barn.

Tommy reached into his pocket and withdraw his cigarette tin, all while Eden started playing with his cap, analysing the razor she and Polly spent a while stitching into his, Arthur and John's caps. The blade was peeking through too much and it was only a matter of time before she had to fix it.

She felt him place a cigarette between her lips, then lit it. They would always light each other's smokes, ever since they began courting it was a thing that had going on, small intimacies. Taking another drag she grabbed his chin, then blew the smoke into his parted chapped lips.

She was mesmerised when he exhaled.

But he honestly thought she looked even more beautiful with a smoke in hand, watching her cheeks suck in, showcasing the beauty spots that decorated her face. He counted every single one over and over again as he found solace in the tobacco. You have more smoke comin' out of you than a fuckin' train, Eden always joked, despite being the one to light them for him.

He smoked more than trains and she judged more than the police, he believed.

"What?" she asked.

They'd been sitting there for a few minutes, in silence, just listening to the sound of the trees blowing in the wind, the trimmed grass sway and the sounds of the horse's neigh. The drop in temperature had her shivering and Tommy wouldn't let that slide, so he took off his jacket and rested it on her shoulders, leaving him in a thick jumper with his shirt collars peeking through.

"You ready?" he asked, standing up and stubbing out the cigarette.

Eden scrunched up her face, "Do I have to go?"

He pulled her up, "Everyone looks more powerful sitting on a horse."

She scoffed, "Who said I was riding it?"

"Who said I weren't referrin' to myself?"

She groaned and shoved him to the side, he mimicked her groan, further aggravating her. Tommy and his impressions would be the death of her.

She gasped when they turned the corner, coming into the barn and seeing the dark brown trembling horse.

Curly and Charlie were nowhere in sight, it was only her, Tommy and the horse.

Oh fuck.

Tommy stepped closer, holding his hands up when the horse caught his movements.

Eden could hear the little cooling words Tommy spoke and she smiled, never seeing him in such a way. It was like she wasn't there, only him and the wild horse.

Gently grabbing the bridle, Tommy continued to whisper, rubbing its forehead down to his muzzle.

He cast a look to Eden holding out his hand, encouraging her to slowly walk towards them.

It was as if the horse could feel her nervousness and started stomping on the grassy floor, creating dents with his heavy hooves, driving her to a halt.

"Eden..." he whispered to the horse, "you're not scared of a pretty girl are ya, boy?" he motioned her to walk which she did, realising how big the horse was almost the same size as them which drove her nerves up the wall, "she's not gonna hurt you. You're not gonna hurt her."

Eden gulped when Tommy took her hand and carefully placed it on the horse's side, she was almost as apprehensive as the animal.

"See... there you go."

She heard Tommy's words as she kept touching the horse.

He smiled when her shoulder's dropped all the tension, though the look in her eyes told her that her fear wasn't gone, after all, it had been less than a few bloody minutes. He never had to search her eyes for meaning for too long.

Eden's eyes doubled in size when she realised that Tommy had let go of her hand and taken a few steps back.

"Gosh Tommy," she whispered, "Look."

A smile graced his lips at her excitement.

"I can see darlin'."

"Have you decided on a name yet?"

"I talked to Curly and Charlie...Curly wasn't too happy but he's lettin' you name him."

She gasped softly, not wanting to scare the animal that wasn't shaking as much any more.

"Really?"

"Yeah," he said, smiling and coming back to them and rubbing down its back. "You're a natural, not even freakin' out anymore."

"Shut up, I didn't freak out."

"Oh really? The bit of piss on that haystack over there –"

She gasped and extended her leg to kick him.

He dodged her attempts, softly chuckling at the glare in her eyes.

"Y'know, he never likes to be out during the day," Tommy commented, remembering when the horse acted as if the sun burnt him whenever it touched its skin.

Eden hummed, and then something came to mind, "Shadow, he should be called Shadow."

"Shadow, and why that?"

"He hides from the sun, ain't that what shadow means?"

He didn't really know or care, he just loved how she looked, whispering to the horse she claimed to be afraid of, only took a few months, and he promised that he would change that and did, well only a little bit.

"Whatever you say, love, whatever you say."

—

The day was coming to an end and the moon would soon be in their sights, no doubt her mother would send Isaiah to look for her since it was a Sunday, she couldn't be missing Sunday dinners, Polly was the same.

The couple left Charlie's yard after Tommy told her the time.

Walking along the cobble streets she was still slightly in shock.

It was the first time she'd been anywhere near a horse, let alone touched one. Sure she saw the Shelbys throughout the years ride them through the streets, but it stunned her to see how large they were up close.

"Are you gonna tell me what's going on in your head? You seem off," she asked, walking along the lane.

"Nothing was wrong."

"Sure?"

"I'm sure, just wanted to spend time with you, is that a crime?"

"It is, if I was out for another hour, mum would've killed you," she said, coming to her front door.

They only lived a few houses apart.

"You said she loves me."

"Sometimes."

She laughed when he nervously ran a hand through his raven hair, it was fuller on the sides and needed to cut it off soon.

"So... since you say you ain't mine, some random toff's girl, can I still steal another kiss?"

"A toff? You think that low of me?"

"Never."

She pressed a chaste kiss to his lips, drawing a smirk from him.

His fingers trailed over them, remembering how they felt against hers.

"Until we meet again love."

"Yeah yeah, get lost before my dad comes out with a shotgun," she said, taking off the jacket on her shoulders and giving it back to him, even though he believed it looked better on her.

"Wouldn't want his only daughter being led astray by a gypsy would he?"

"Too late for that now."

As soon as she shut the door behind her, she smiled to herself and took off her shoes, placing them by her parents.

She could hear them faintly as she walked in.

"Still saving lives?" she heard her dad say to her mum.

"Still making things?" her mum joked.

Nurse and carpenter they were and have been for 19 years. Celestine and Cecil Dawkins had been happily married for 20 years, the same couldn't be said for half the city.

"I'm home!" Eden screamed on purpose, startling her parents, her mother almost dropped the plate of mash over her father who was sitting at the table.

"And now the whole street knows that," Celestine remarked, then received a kiss on the cheek from her daughter.

Cecil chuckled, "No doubt Mrs Granberry across town can."

Eden rolled her eyes, "Mrs Granberry can get fuc–"

"Watch it," her mother warned, just as Cecil laughed with his daughter, who pressed a kiss to his cheek.

Cecil was a tall and tough man who would do just about anything for his girls, his darker skin would lead him to trouble which he never caused, the same couldn't be said for Celestine who was a lighter complexion than her daughter, the woman wasn't much taller than Eden, and looked great for forty.

Cecil turned to his daughter, "How was work sweetheart? Still savin'–"

"--Lives? No Dad, a patient succumbed to his wounds today," Eden admitted, taking a seat and not looking at her parents who were sending her pitiful looks.

"Sorry to 'ere that," her dad reached over and grabbed her hand, "why don't ya give our girl an extra piece of lamb," he asked Celestine who nodded.

"Here you go, need you to be in better spirits for tomorrow. Don't fret my girl, it happens to the best of us," Celestine remembered all the times when she couldn't save a patient, it occasionally took a toll on her.

"Thanks, mum," Eden forced a smile, then went to eat, but her mum slapped her hand as well as Cecil's.

"Ay, you may not come to church or even say your daily prays but you will wait to say grace at this table before you start stuffing those bellies of yours."

"Sorry mum," she muttered.

Cecil winced, "Sorry, love."

"And you young lady, where were you? I expected you to help me prepare the table," Celestine pointed the sharp knife at her, making her inch back in her seat.

"Next time I won't be late I promise," Eden spoke, avoiding her mum's piercing look.

"And since you grabbed for your fork first, you're saying grace."

Eden groaned, "Mum."

"Did I stutter?

Grabbing ahold of her parent's hands she sighed, "Alright alright. Dear God..."

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a/n:

just to reiterate, tommy is 22 and eden is 20. the shelby business had only been running for 2 years (i searched up when it started but it wasn't clear online, so I'll make it headcanon for this story). also, tommy might seem much more smilely and open and less cold and that's because he hadn't been to war just yet, none of them have, so everything in this story is much lighter, but that doesn't mean there aren't any future problems, because tommy's jealousy is a mean thing.

you'll meet more oc's throughout the next couple of chapters and even the other canon characters as well. hoped you enjoyed the first chapter guys.

also imma include as much horse terminology as i can, (tryna remember my saddle club days). also since i'm writing about the roma/ romani culture please correct me on anything (beliefs, sayings and more)

tommy and eden ship name?

#wattpad #fanfic #black girl #black reader #edendawkins #Tommy and Eden #tommyshelby and edendawkins #tommyshelby story #Tommyshelbyxblackreader

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