Summary: Y/N finds herself feeling like her gift for Wonwoo's birthday was far from good enough when she saw what Carats and other members got him.
Warnings: Mention of IV drips, fainting, and hospitals.
Word Count: 3330+
Author’s Note: Just a small piece of Wonwoo fic that was floating in my head for a while. I finally had the time to finish it. Comments/reblogs feeds a writer's soul! Enjoy~
She watched from the corner of the couch at the rambunctious boys, her heart warming at the thought that Wonwoo has such precious friendships in his life. He finally picked up her gift, having gone through most of them and seeing as how hers was the first one set on the table. Seungkwan passed him the big box first, and she was excited to see his reaction. She worked over time for the last few months in order to be able to afford the gift, but the effort was worth it, in her opinion.
The boys hollered at the sight of the shiny Apple box, and Mingyu shouted. “Wait- wait- which one of you forgot that Carats already gave him a personalized Airpods Max?” Most of the boys shook her head, but she didn’t have it in her to tell them. Nobody put their names on the gifts so no one could tell who the gift was from. Her heart sank as Seungcheol took the box and set it aside, still thinking it was from one of the boys. In doing so, she watched her smaller gift fall on the carpet, underneath the copious amount of wrapping paper and tissue paper on the floor.
“Don’t use that one- use the one you got from our precious fans,” he said, laughing. She admired their loyalty to their fans, but found her heart still sinking when Wonwoo nodded. She worked hard for the gift, and seeing it get tossed aside felt like her efforts were also being tossed aside. She knew Wonwoo still appreciated the gift as he was never the type to take what he’s given for granted, but a part of her wished she had given him his gift privately instead. Y/N noticed Mingyu pulling out his phone, telling the boys that he was going to start a live on Instagram. She took this time to slink back to the kitchen to start cleaning up. Her relationship with Wonwoo was known to the fans, but she still wanted to respect the responsibility that comes with his job. If she were to do anything wrong, it would reflect poorly on him, so in order to avoid that she tried to live as quietly as she could.
Y/N heard her boyfriend’s speech to their fans, thanking them for their support. She cleared up the mess of having to host 13 boys in the kitchen, and made her way back to the living room once she heard they were done their livestream.
“Y/N, we’re going to go out for drinks, wanna come?” Seungkwan asked, motioning for her to join their group. He gave her a side hug before pulling her to sit beside Wonwoo, Dokyeom standing to make space for her.
She looked at the mess in the living room, and shook her head. “I think I’ll just stay and clean up. You guys have fun!”
“Are you sure?” Wonwoo asked quietly beside her, not wanting to pressure her.
“Yea. Go have fun with the boys.” She gave a short peck to his cheek, rolling her eyes at the hollering going on around her. As they all headed out, they each gave her a short hug, thanking her for hosting them. Y/N picked up her gift from the floor, looking at the designer items the boys had gifted her boyfriend. She knew that he wasn’t materialistic, and would’ve loved anything they had given him, but she couldn’t help but feel like she was lacking in her ability to spoil him. She had worked a lot of overtime hours in the last few months, having to go to the doctors for IV drops a couple of times because she was so exhausted. Luckily, Wonwoo was also busy with promotions, but it made her feel even emptier when everything was said and done. She sighed, placing the small box back on the couch and cleaning up the living room. The smaller box had contained a heartfelt card, an old MP3 player with a customized playlist she had created to represent her love for him, along with a Spotify code as she knew he would want it on his phone as well. While she was going around cleaning, she hadn’t realized the box slipping between the cushion of the couch.
The next few days were busy as she decided to continue working overtime since Wonwoo was busy anyways. She felt like their relationship was barely hanging on the last few months because of his busy schedule, and the fact that she was working more than ever before in order to be able to afford his gift and hosting the get-together with his team. Woozi and Seungcheol had offered to help her pay for the party, but she didn’t feel right about it. She wanted to spoil them, and she didn’t want them to think that she was taking advantage of their finances like that.
Wonwoo came home late at night after recording some b-side tracks for their repackaged album. He couldn’t even bother making it to his bedroom so he decided to crash on the couch. Once his body landed on the usually soft cushion, he immediately noticed a firm item in between the pillows. He dug around, finding a small box he remembered seeing at his birthday party a week ago. He opened the box, seeing the letter slipped out.
To my WON and only,
Happy Birthday!! Please excuse my crappy handwriting, but I wanted to write down how much I love you and how much I love us. Two years ago we met each other, and my life would never be the same since. I am so thankful for another year to be by your side and I want you to know that no matter what I want to always be with you. My heart is so full of love, and yet I can’t express them with words so I hope you will feel all my love in the songs I’ve put in this mixtape.
Always yours ❤️
Just as he was about to play her playlist, his phone buzzed. It was Woozi apologizing and asking him to come back to the studio. He sighed tiredly, pressing the palm of his hands against his eyes. It was times like this that he missed Y/N’s touch, and how she’s always been able to relieve his stress with just a simple hug. He missed her so much. He opened the last message from her. It was her telling him about finishing work and going to the mall, and showing him what she had bought. It was the little, mundane things that Wonwoo appreciated in their relationship. Since they found it hard to meet up sometimes, she made it a point to send little updates about her day, and he would do the same. As he was reading through her messages, and the commentary on her video haul that she sent him, he noticed the time she had sent the message of leaving work. His eyebrows furrowed as she usually leaves work around 6 to 6:30, but the timestamp had read her messaging him closer to 8pm. He scrolled back through their messages, easily finding her little messages after work and they were all late. It wasn’t as if her morning messages came later either, they were all at the same early 6am as they had always been. His thoughts were interrupted, when Woozi sent another message asking if he was coming. Wonwoo confirmed that he was, and made his way back to the studio while thinking about what would keep his girlfriend late at work. She hadn’t mentioned any big projects or anything that could keep her longer, but perhaps she just forgot to tell him. He sent her a few text to ease his mind, maybe it wasn’t as a big deal as he had in his mind.
Goodnight, baby
I just got home from the studio, but Woozi asked me to come back to record more. I’m so tired and I miss you so much
I noticed that you’ve been getting off work later than usual? Is everything alright?
He pocketed the MP3 player, and went back to the studio where he crashed for a few hours after recording. It was a little before noon when Wonwoo woke up, opening his eyes to an uneasy-looking Dino, and he suddenly he was on alert.
“Hyung-”
“Dino? What’s wrong?”
“We charged your phone when you were sleeping because it was dead, and when we turned it on it wouldn't stop buzzing.”
Wonwoo felt his heart plummeting and beating miles per hour, he nodded in thanks and quickly took his phone from Dino’s outstretched hand. He realized a few more members were there, and they had halted the recording. It was easy to see why they were panicking, usually if it was an emergency amongst the members, there would be at least a few more members who would know, but this seemed like a personal matter. He unlocked his phone, seeing 10+ phone calls, and 30+ messages from Eunji- Y/N’s best friend. He skimmed through messages, bile rising from his throat when he saw the words
‘Fainted… hospital… overworked…’
He got up quickly, catching the eye of all his members.
“What? What is it?” Seungcheol asked worriedly.
“Y/N’s in the hospital,” he said before rushing out.
“Wonwoo!” Seungcheol called. “You’re in no state to drive. I’ll drive you.”
Wonwoo nodded in appreciation, knowing that it was faster to get a ride from his members than wait for his manager. The ride to the hospital was tense, and Wonwoo was able to call Eunji back.
“Eunji- how is she?” he asked once he heard her pick up.
“She’s fine now,” she said with a small sigh. “They gave her some fluids, and they’re just looking over her now. Where were you, Wonwoo?”
“I’m so sorry. I was recording all night, and fell asleep.” He stopped when she spoke again.
“Right. I guess it can’t be helped.” Wonwoo always appreciated Y/N and Eunji’s ability to not linger on things beyond their control, seeming always focused on fixing the problem. “Did you like her gift?”
“Gift?”
“Yea- your birthday was last week, right?” When he didn’t respond she continued. “Y/N told me a few months ago that she was planning a birthday party for you and your team. She wanted to spoil you guys, and tried going all out- even buying you the Airpods Max. I’m guessing that’s why she’s here.”
“What?” Wonwoo was still trying to process everything, and the anxiety of Y/N being in the hospital wasn’t helping him see the bigger picture. He needed Eunji to spell it out for him.
“She worked overtime for the last few months to be able to afford your gift and the party. I mean she wasn’t broke by any means, but throwing a party for 13 guys can get pretty expensive. I think some of your members offered to split the cost, but she was worried that they would see her as someone too focused on money.”
Seungcheol’s eyes widened at her revelation of what she went through that day. He remembered the comment Mingyu made about the Airpods, and how he had carelessly tossed it aside. He felt so guilty for not even considering the effort she put in that day. In a way the idol life had spoiled him as staff members were usually the one preparing their birthday events. He didn’t know how much they cost but he could imagine it was more than Y/N would’ve spent on herself. He wasn’t blind to the amount of effort she put in, rivaling the decorations that a team of staff would prepare for their birthday streams.
“I didn’t know,” Wonwoo said quietly. “She never told me.”
“That’s our stubborn Y/N. She probably didn’t want to make anyone feel bad. Knowing her, she was probably overworking both at work and trying to make the party happen that she stopped taking care of herself. I would’ve thought she would stop doing overtime after the party though.”
“I’m at the hospital now.” He turned to his leader. “Cheol-”
“Go. Text us if you need anything. We can come by-” he paused. “If she wants us there.” He felt guilty about that day, thinking about how hurt she might have been.
“Thanks.” Wonwoo got to the room Eunji texted him, taking a deep breath before slowly opening the door. Eunji was sitting beside the empty bed, scrolling through her phone. “Where is she?” he asked, suddenly on alert again.
“They took her for some more testing,” she told him, motioning for him to sit at the chair across from her.
He shook his head, looking around the room, his need to see her making him restless.
“I’m glad you’re here now. I know you don’t like to push her to talk, but she’s more like you than you think, Wonwoo.” Before she could say more, Y/N was wheelchaired in with her nurse. Her eyes widened when she saw Wonwoo, and she was about to reach for him when the nurse had gently helped her back on the bed.
“Your tests are all done,” he informed her. “The doctor will be in shortly to discharge you.”
“I have to take my leave now,” Eunji said as the nurse left them alone. “But call me if you need anything, alright?” She turned to both of them before picking up her bag, offering a supportive smile before taking her leave.
“Y/N…” Wonwoo started, his voice cracking with how emotional he was feeling. “What happened?” Despite Eunji telling him the story, he wanted to hear it from her mouth.
“I worked a little too hard, and fainted- kinda hit my head a bit so that’s why the doctors are doing all these test,” she answered him in a light tone. “It’s not a big deal.”
“Hmm.” He took the chair Eunji was sitting on, and brought it closer to her bed. “Why were you working so hard? I saw you’ve been working overtime.”
Her eyes immediately shifted to her lap. “You’ve been busy so I wanted to keep my mind off missing you.”
He knew she was telling the truth, but not the whole truth. “It has nothing to do with this?” he asked, pulling out the MP3 player from his pocket.
Y/N gasped, thinking she had brought it home with her instead of leaving it at Wonwoo’s couch.
“I read your letter. You got me the Airpods and made me a playlist- even putting it on this MP3 player you knew I would like. Why didn’t you say anything?”
“I didn’t know Carats had already gotten you one…” she trailed off. “And I didn’t want to ruin the mood or make anyone feel bad.”
He was about to put a hand on her head, but stopped when he remembered she hit her head. Instead, he stroked her cheek with the back of his fingers. “I love it. I love you. You could’ve given me a plastic bag, and I would’ve loved it.”
She chuckled at his words, shaking her head. “I was thinking…”
“Hm?”
“Maybe we could give the Airpods to your father? That way you can use the one Carats gave you, and father will be happy with the new Airpods?”
Wonwoo melted at her thoughtfulness, reminding him one of the many reasons he loves her. She made it a point to welcome his family with such open arms, including his team. “You don’t want it for yourself?” he asked, knowing she had always wanted similar headphones.
She shook her head. “I think father would appreciate it more.”
“Alright. You can give it to him next time we visit.” He took her hand, placing it against his lips as he gazed at her face. “I don’t want you to be working overtime to buy me anything anymore, okay?”
“That’s not fair,” she argued, taking her hand back. “You-”
“I don’t care about money or materialistic things. I care about you- please? Can we do the handmade gifts from now on or something?”
She thought about it for a bit, pondering on his suggestion. “You’ll only give me handmade things too?”
He nodded.
“Deal,” she agreed, breaking into a grin. “You realize that’s gonna be harder for you, right?”
“Nah,” he shook his head. “There’s nothing hard about spoiling the person I love the most.”
“You’re so cheesy,” she said between laughter.
His phone buzzed, and he checked it was Seungcheol who texted him. “Seungcheol just texted. The members were really worried.”
“About me?”
“Mm.” He responded that she was alright now. “They wanted to know if you would like to see them?”
“She nodded. “Today? Okay- maybe we can go bring food to them if they’re practicing?”
He furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. “We’re not doing anything. You’re coming home with me, and they’ll visit us there, okay?”
“I’m sure they don’t want to miss their practice.”
He shook his head, stopping her. “Y/N, my team is my family.”
She nodded, not knowing where he was going with this.
“And you’re now family so they’re your family too.”
Before she could say anything, the doctor knocked on the door with a clipboard. He gave her the clear to go home, and Wonwoo called a taxi for them to take to his home. As they settled in to his home, Y/N gave Wonwoo the go-ahead to have the members over to visit.
“Y/N, I’m so sorry,” Mingyu said, his face full of anguish. Seungcheol stood beside him, head lowered as if expecting to be scolded.
She shook her head, putting a hand on each of the boys’ arms. “Don’t worry- you guys have nothing to apologize for.”
“We didn’t mean to-”
“I know, I know.” She gave them both a hug. “It’s nothing, really.”
Wonwoo gently pulled her to his side, leading her to sit down on the couch as if the few seconds of standing would be too tiresome for her. She sat in the center of the thirteen boys, feeling like she was finally a part of their little family they created for themselves. When the door rang for the food to arrive, Y/N was the first to get up, but before she could even move, Wonwoo had already gotten up and made sure she stayed put while the other members jumped up to get the door. In the end, Seungcheol and Mingyu had gotten the food, and set it on the table.
“Thank you for the food, Woo,” Soonyoung said, the other members following in sharing the gratitude.
He waved it off, knowing it wasn’t the first nor the last time he would treat his members. Being older than most of them, he felt a sense of responsibility in making sure they were treated well, and felt like he would be taking advantage of them if he didn’t cover their expenses from time to time.
He took the bowl that was meant for Y/N, unpacking it and adding her preferred toppings. “Thanks, Woo,” Y/N repeated, taking the outstretched plate from his hands. He leaned over to get a side dish to put on her plate, and Y/N took the opportunity to give him a quick peck on his cheek.
“Ehh! You guys are too sickeningly cute,” Seungkwan said, giving them a side eye.
“Don’t be rude! I think they’re cute.” Dokyum scolded.
Wonwoo prepared her food first, giving her the bowl before getting his own bowl. Minghao was on her right, and took some of the side dish in front of him, and placed it on her bowl.
“Thanks Hao,” she smiled. This time she wasn’t watching the 13 boys from the corner of the couch, feeling like an outsider, but instead she finally felt like a part of their found family.
Summary: Tommy and Ada was on a mission to gather some important goods for the family, and while Tommy scares the life out of the seller, Ada tries to be the voice of reason.
Warnings: More Shelby fluff!
Word Count: 586
Author’s Note: Please accept this tiny writing as I get used to my new schedule, and attempt to overcome writer's block for my Shelby!Sister series. Comments/reblogs feeds a writer's soul!
“I can give you a list of what we have,” the boy stuttered. He looked no older than 16 year-old, fear in his eyes, and he scuffled uneasily under the gaze of the leader of the Peaky Blinder.
“No,” Tommy said, shaking his head. Both eyebrows raised as if he was shocked that the boy would even ask such a ridiculous question.
“Show me the options.” It wasn’t a request, and he knew that people were slowly making their way out of the shop to avoid any kind of confrontation.
“Well, Mr. Shelby, most people like this one here, but this one has been the popular choice lately.” The boy pointed to all the options behind the glass encasement, and with sharp eyes, Tommy looked at each of them carefully.
“Jesus, Tommy,” Ada scoffed, rolling her eyes. “It’s not that serious.”
Tommy turned to his younger sister. “I didn’t realize you were the head of the family, Ada.”
She rolled her eyes again, turning around to look at the store. It was a dainty place, having just opened up- a family business that proved to be no threat to their own business. Though, there was room for doubt with the way Tommy was dealing with business on their turf.
Tommy turned to the boy in front of him, having come to a conclusion. “I’d like one of each.”
“Got it, Mr. Shelby.”
The leader stared at the boy as he moved around, ignoring the bell of someone entering the shop and his brothers calling his name. He only turned around when he heard his name being called by a high-pitched voice, one that would not be happy until all his attention was on her.
“Tommy!” The youngest Shelby yelled and jumped into his open arms. “Did you get the ice cream?”
“I did, love.” He pointed to the display with all their options. “Got a pint of everything.”
She gasped dramatically. “You did?! But Aunt Pol said we shouldn’t.”
“Then we shouldn’t tell her, eh?”
The little one put her finger on her lips. “I won’t tell.”
“Good.” He kissed her forehead, letting her wrap her arms around his neck. “Which flavour will you try first?”
She stared at the choices carefully, eyebrows furrowed in focus. It was that look that confirmed the youngest Shelby’s relation to the rest of her family- Tommy especially. The piercing gaze that she had perfected at the young age of seven. “Chocolate!”
“Hmm, good choice.”
“All set, Mr. Shelby.” The boy placed the two paper bags full of ice cream on the counter.
“Arthur, John, pay the man.” Tommy nodded in their direction, but quickly turned his attention back to his youngest sister.
“You spoil her too much, Tommy,” Ada commented.
“That’s rich coming from you, Ada.” Arthur snorted at his sister’s comment. “You bought out the toy store last time she visited you in London.”
“I wanted to give her a good experience for her first time in London,” she defended.
"Oi, behave," Tommy said sharply, knowing if they were to continue bickering, Ada would pull out her gun.
"Yea! No fucking fighting!" Y/N added, having heard her older brother use that phrase. The brother in question could only shrug with a small smile.
“Well, you heard the lass. No fighting or else fucking none of you get ice cream." Y/N giggled at her brother's words as they made their way out of the shop and back home for a classic Shelby ice cream party.
Summary: When Grace leaves Small Heath, Tommy turns back to the person who's been around since the beginning.
Warnings: language, drinking
Word Count: 3721
A/N: this story was fun to write. I tried to base (Y/N) off of Amy from the movie Little Women...I hope that it shined through well. Also I hope that this was the happy ending that you were looking for. Enjoy! :)
Let me know if you want to be tagged in future stories similar to this one!
———
The bar was crowded with men that the Shelby brothers had brought along with them to help celebrate their send off to the derby. The room seemed to be buzzing, but (Y/N) couldn't be bothered. She huffed out a sigh as she brought the glass to her lips, taking another sip of the burning liquid and enjoying the feeling as it slid down her throat.
"Something bothering you, (Y/N)?" Polly Gray asked with furrowed eyebrows as she approached the booth (Y/N) was sitting in from where she was in the back of the Garrison.
"No," (Y/N) shook her head and hoped that the woman would believe her lie, "just not in the mood for celebration."
Polly pursed her lips, giving the younger woman her trademarked 'I know something's wrong with you but I'm not gonna force it out of you' look before she took a sip from the drink she'd brought with her. "Are you joining the boys at the derby or hanging back?"
(Y/N) didn't hear the other woman's question though. Instead, she had her eyes and mind focused on none other than her friend Tommy Shelby as he grinned and served drinks alongside the barmaid, Grace Burgess. She couldn't stop the pang of jealousy from building inside of her as she wished that could have been her standing by his side and doing everything with him. Instead she was only his friend. She was his friend and he didn't know anything otherwise, or else he wouldn't have kissed Grace while she was around like he did at the Garrison several days ago.
"Hello?" the sound of snapping and the single word question brought (Y/N) back into the conversation.
"Hi," she smiled at Polly, who laughed at the blatant confusion that was spread across (Y/N)'s face now.
"I asked you if you were going to be going to the derby or staying back," Polly repeated herself, her grin now present again as she then glanced over to see Tommy and Grace. She now knew the young woman's dilemma without even having to ask her.
"I'll probably stay back," (Y/N) answered with a bit of a frown, "there's nothing there that I'd be needed for anyway," she added to help her case.
She glanced towards the bar again in time to see Grace quickly retreat to the stockroom. Tommy's grin faltered before he too made his way into the room and shut the door. I don't even wanna think about what they're doing in there, she thought...except she was still thinking about it.
"I...I've gotta go, Pol," she said suddenly as she stood from the booth, "I'm sorry, but I'm not really feeling being in a crowd today." Polly only gave her a look of sympathy before she left the booth and began walking to the doors. On her way there, she looked over at the door to the room Tommy and Grace had disappeared into. They hadn't come out yet, and she didn't want to stick around to see the satisfied grins on their faces when they did. So she dropped her eyes to the floor and continued walking to the exit.
—
(Y/N) didn't do much for the rest of the day. She sat around her apartment and wondered just how she got herself to this point.
She cursed the fact that she'd welcomed all of the remarks that were flirty in nature from Tommy, and she wanted to kick herself for sending them right back to him. She hated that she shared a kiss with him; one that happened late into a drink-filled night at the Garrison, where they stayed back after everyone else left and held each other's glances for just a little too long. He wouldn't see her as anything other than his friend, and she knew that. It'd be impossible to think of anything else with a woman like Grace by his side.
So as the day grew later, she sat at her dining table with a bottle of scotch…one that Tommy would surely turn his nose up to, but she didn't care. It was all that she had, and she intended on drinking it.
A knock sounded off the door to her apartment when she was about a glass and a half in. With furrowed eyebrows, she stood from the chair and made her way over to it. "Who is it?" she called, confusion in her voice. Surely it must've been night by now...who'd be bothering her at this time?
"It's me," came the voice from the other side.
With a sigh, she undid the lock and twisted the knob, opening the door to reveal a drenched Tommy Shelby. "Is it raining?" she questioned upon taking in his attire.
"It is," he nodded, sounding slightly out of breath, "can I come in?" he asked her then, peering around her into the apartment.
"Why?" she asked him, not moving aside yet. She was still a little wary of him from the last time she saw him.
"Because I need to talk to you," he answered her, his voice showing the dire need he possessed at the moment. (Y/N) held his gaze for a moment longer before she silently nodded and stepped aside. Tommy took that as his go-ahead and walked into the apartment. Once he was through the threshold, (Y/N) shut the door and then turned to face him.
"What do you need to talk about?" she immediately got into it, her eyebrows on the cusp of raising as he turned back to face her once more. Before he could speak, however, her eyes widened at the sight of blood splattered on what looked to be a cloth wrapped around his chest. "What's happened to you?" she asked him, concern seeping into her expression.
"Kimber and his men came into Small Heath. He demanded we have a war, he shot me and then I killed him," he explained, his voice rather monotoned as he recounted what'd happened that day for the umpteenth time.
"Shot?" she questioned with wide eyes, taking a step forward and wanting to reach out and examine his wound before she caught herself and took a step back. "Are you ok?" she settled on asking him.
"Yes, I'm fine," he nodded his head, taking a deep breath then, "I wanted to come and talk to you," he then circled back around to his previous statement.
"Ok?" her response came out as a question, like she was asking for him to continue as she waited with an intent expression on her face. He took another deep breath and looked away from her, his eyes becoming fixated on the shelves filled with dishes to the right of them. "Tommy?" she questioned, becoming more confused as each second passed.
"Grace left," he told her, his eyes finding hers again after he spoke. (Y/N)'s jaw went slack at his statement, surprise surging through her body. "She...she was fuckin' spying on me, (Y/N). She was spying on me for Campbell."
"You're...you're kidding, Tommy," she finally spoke after her initial shock wore off, "please tell me that you're kidding."
"I'm not," he shook his head, hurt clear in his eyes, "Pol was the one who put the pieces together. I told her about our move on Kimber and she told Campbell every-fucking-thing that I told her," he explained more of his situation, his hands hooking onto his waist as he shook his head. He was still in shock from it all. "She's going to London. She told me to come with her. I flipped a coin, and it landed wrong."
"I can't believe this," (Y/N) said, her eyes still wide as her brain was going at a hundred miles a minute trying to process what he'd just told her. "Out of all the people, I just...wow. I can't believe you allowed her to get close to you and use you like that."
"The coin landed wrong for a reason, (Y/N)..." he trailed off, not responding to her shock at all. He then took a step closer to her, making her even more confused. "I'm supposed to stay here, in Small Heath. I'm supposed to be with you," he spoke with sincerity in his voice, his words shocking (Y/N) yet again.
Her eyes widened slightly as she tried to now process his statement, which had come from out of left field. Moments later, she began shaking her head. "No," she said while still shaking her head.
"No, what?" Tommy questioned, his eyebrows furrowing as confusion set in.
"You're not doing this, Tommy," she said, dropping her gaze to the floor.
"What am I doing?" there was a mixture of utter confusion and a notion of pleading in his voice. He had no idea what she was getting at, and she sighed as she realized that she was going to have to spell it out for him.
"I'm not just some backup plan, Tommy. I will not be the person you settle for just because you cannot have her. I won't, I won't do that..." she paused, breaking their gaze as she felt tears starting to well up in her eyes. She shook her head and blinked a few times, trying to keep the tears at bay before she took a deep breath. "I won't...not when I've spent my entire life loving you," she admitted then.
She stammered through her words at first, but her confession rang in Tommy's ears loud and clear. Her eyes widened as she realized what she'd just said, and it was enough for her to drop her gaze and leave him, walking over to rest herself against the back of the couch. Tommy stood, speechless in his spot, his mouth gaped slightly as he tried to make sense of what she'd just confessed to him.
"Can you please leave, Tommy?" she asked him after a few quiet moments had passed. Her gaze was trained on the floor. She couldn't bear to look at him after what she'd just said. "I need to be alone right now."
"(Y/N), I..."
"Please?" she cut him off, stressing the word as she looked up at him again with tear-filled eyes. It was taking all that she had to hold the tears in. She didn't want him to see her cry; didn't want him to then have a reason to swoop in and offer her a shoulder to cry on.
He stayed frozen in his spot for a few more moments before finally he nodded his head. "I'll go," he told her, then taking the few steps back over to the door. He opened it and then moved into the doorway before stopping and turning back to look at her one more time. "I will make this up to you, (Y/N)," he promised her before he exited the apartment and closed the door for good. The sound of the handle clicking was enough to allow (Y/N) to let all of her tears fall.
——
"Ada why do I need to wear this specific dress?" (Y/N) asked the woman who was sitting on the couch.
"Because I am deciding that it's finally time for you to get out of this place again and go experience a good time," Ada answered, picking at her nails before she glanced over at the woman holding the dress.
"I get out of this place a lot, thank you very much," (Y/N) countered, a bit of a dumbfounded expression on her face.
"But do you have a good time?" Ada questioned, her one eyebrow raised. (Y/N) pursed her lips and stayed mum at the ask. It'd been weeks since she allowed herself to go out and have a good time. Ada laughed slightly as she stood up and smoothed out her dress. "It's settled then...you and I are going into the city later. I'll be here at six with a driver to pick you up," she laid out the details of (Y/N)'s newly acquired plans.
"Oh...ok," (Y/N) was left with no other choice but to agree with them as she watched the other woman walk over to the apartment's door.
"I'll see you at six," Ada announced, sending one last smile before opening the door and leaving the apartment.
Once the door was shut again, (Y/N) let out a sigh. Why had she just agreed to going out? She still felt like she didn't have it in her, everything that happened with Tommy still fresh in her mind even though it happened a few weeks ago. God, why did she have to foolishly admit her feelings to him? She sighed at that thought as well.
—
The day passed too quickly for (Y/N)'s liking, and soon enough, she was fixing her hair in the mirror, hoping that the simple pin-back she did would go well with the royal blue dress she was wearing.
When the clock chimed at six, she took a deep breath and grabbed her purse. She deemed herself ready to go after looking in the mirror across the room one last time.
Her jaw went slack when she saw what was waiting for her outside of her apartment. "Where's Ada, Tommy? Are you driving us?" she began asking the man that was leaning up against the black car questions. An indescribable feeling began filling her as she was unable to tear her eyes away from the man she hadn't seen in weeks (which was because she'd been actively avoiding him).
Tommy grinned at her confusion. The plan that Ada set into place had obviously worked. "I'm taking you into the city," he told her once she had stopped where he was standing. He pushed himself off of the car before he opened the passenger's side door. With furrowed eyebrows, (Y/N) accepted his invitation into the car. Immediately, she twisted around to see if Ada was sitting in the back, but she was met with an empty seat.
"Where's Ada?" she questioned him again once he'd entered the car through the driver's side door.
"It'll be just us going into the city," Tommy responded, starting the car before he promptly pulled off.
"Tommy," she sighed, staring down at her lap as the pieces were coming together to show her just how she had gotten sucked into this predicament.
"Let me make this up to you," he said to her, removing his eyes from the road to briefly glance in her direction.
(Y/N) immediately knew what 'this' meant without even asking him to elaborate. She pursed her lips and looked out at the road again, a swarm of questions swirling through her head now. Carefully, she chose the one she felt was the most important to ask: "You're not just doing this to forget about her, are you?" she said her words softly, almost like she didn't want him to hear them.
But he heard them loud and clear. "Forget about who?" was his response, and he ended it by looking over at her with a serious expression on his face.
(Y/N) sucked in a breath as she tried to ground herself and not go too much into her head. This is just a day in the city, she thought to herself. "So this is a date then?" her mouth wanted to believe the complete opposite.
A hint of a grin formed on Tommy's face at her question. "If you want it to be," he left the ball in her court, nodding his head to the side slightly as he kept focused on the road. (Y/N) only pursed her lips at his answer, unable to give her thoughts on the events that had transpired because it was clear to her that she was in two different mindsets within herself.
The rest of the ride into the city was a quiet one, and it was only when Tommy parked the car and walked around to open her door that he spoke again: "lemme help you out," he mumbled, offering his hand to her. She took it, then sliding her body out from the passenger's side seat and sending him a gracious smile. Tommy shut the door and tossed the keys to the valet man before he offered his arm to (Y/N). She glanced down at his gesture before hooking hers with it so that he could lead her to the doors of the fancy establishment. "Figured we'd get ourselves a nice dinner," he commented on the upper class establishment as they entered it and were immediately taken back to a table.
“This is a nice place, Tommy,” (Y/N) commented as she looked around the dining room, seeing the many other couples that were busy conversing and eating fine cuisine.
“Only the best for you, love,” he sent her a grin, one that made her cheeks heat up. Quickly, she attempted to hide it with the glass of wine that had been poured for her, but she knew Tommy had seen her reaction.
They talked about nothing in particular as they waited for their food to be served. Once it was, Tommy couldn’t help but keep his eyes focused on (Y/N) rather than bother with his food.
“What?” (Y/N) questioned him once she noticed that he’d been looking at her.
“Nothing,” Tommy shook his head, taking a sip of his whiskey.
She took his word and looked back down at her plate. As she was beginning to cut off another piece of her food, she felt his eyes on her once more. “Why’re you staring at me, Tommy?” she questioned him again, her voice holding no accusatory tone. It was merely just her curiosity getting the better of her.
“I was uh, remembering...” he paused, clearing his throat as he waved his one hand in the air like it would help him find the words he wanted to say, “I was remembering the times we spent together.”
“Oh yeah?” (Y/N) leaned forward slightly with intrigue dancing in her eyes, “the good, or the bad?”
“The good, of course,” Tommy responded, a grin on his face as he leaned in closer as well, “I was thinking about that time when you sucker punched that man for looking at you funny...after he went on for minutes about drinkin’ at the bar alone, it was the stupid look on his face that did him in,” he recalled, laughing to himself after telling the story.
(Y/N) also laughed at the memory. “I may have had a little too much in me that night,” she said as a blush covered her cheeks and she looked down at her plate in a bashful manner.
“No,” Tommy shook his head as he paused for a moment, “or maybe you did because you kissed me in the snug later on,” he then added, his words making (Y/N)’s eyes quickly snap up to meet his.
“You remembered that?” she asked him, her eyes now wide with shock.
“‘Course I did...” Tommy paused and leaned back in his seat, “won’t ever forget something like that.”
“Well you should,” (Y/N) started, a slight frown on her face, “because it was probably terrible.”
Tommy shook his head at that, “no...not terrible in the slightest.” His eyes met hers then, his gaze so intense she was able to feel it in her bones.
A momentary silence fell over the both of them then, the only sounds being the clinking of silverware off of plates. Then (Y/N) decided to speak again: “what else do you have planned for tonight?”
“I figured we’d go to the pictures. Then maybe have a walk by the canal...it’s much nicer than the one back in Small Heath,” he laid out his plans for them, his final comment making (Y/N) laugh slightly. As she dared to look up at him again, a feeling that she’d never felt before found its way inside of her. She nodded in response to his words, deciding that maybe it’d be good to go along with what he had planned.
——
After a calming walk and a thought-provoking movie, (Y/N) and Tommy arrived back at her apartment. He played the role of gentleman and made sure to walk her up to her apartment’s door on the second floor.
“Thank you for tonight, Tommy,” she said before she went to unlock her door, “I had a really lovely time.”
“I’m happy you enjoyed yourself,” Tommy nodded slightly, a smile playing on his lips as his eyes locked with hers. They stood in silence for a few moments before he asked what had been on his mind since they’d arrived at her building, “does this get me a second date?”
(Y/N)’s eyes widened at his sudden question. She was a bit taken back by it, but she couldn’t stop the smile from forming on her face. “I think it does,” she then gave him the answer he was waiting for.
The grin broke full onto his features as he heard what her answer was. Within seconds of hearing it, he was leaning in closer to her. (Y/N), realizing what he was doing, was able to place her hands against either side of his neck, effectively stopping him before he could match his lips to hers. He exhaled a disappointed grunt before asking, “what was that for?” while his breath fanned against her lips.
“I only kiss on fourth dates, Tommy,” she told him, a smile present in her words before she leaned in and pressed a teasing kiss to his cheek; closer in location to the corner of his lips than to his earlobe.
Her smile was still present as she stepped back from him and dropped her hold completely. Nothing else was said as she unlocked her door, opened it, and stepped inside.
Her smile widened as she thought about the events of the night. If Tommy Shelby truly wanted her, he’d have to work for it and show her that she wasn’t part of some backup plan. She had a pretty good feeling that he would.
I love this so much 😭 My heart is soooo conflicted, but I'm so glad she's making him work for her. I have a scene already in my head (more like a headcannon) that one day when they're arguing Y/N/reader would totally bring up the fact that he had to literally flip a coin to decide to go after her. Idk why that tiny detail gets to me 🙈
But also this scene gets to me bc flustered Tommy is EVERYTHING --> “I was uh, remembering...” he paused, clearing his throat as he waved his one hand in the air like it would help him find the words he wanted to say, “I was remembering the times we spent together.”
And the tiny detail about her still showing interest by kissing him near the lips- GAH. I can imagine Tommy staying up THINKING ABOUT IT AND BLUSHING --> “I only kiss on fourth dates, Tommy,” she told him, a smile present in her words before she leaned in and pressed a teasing kiss to his cheek; closer in location to the corner of his lips than to his earlobe.
Characters: Shelby Brothers x Shelby!Sister; Alfie Solomons
Summary: Y/N Shelby is starting to feel a burden to her family, and wanted to do her part in helping the family- except she decided to work with another gangster to help her with her cause.
Warnings: A rotten dude exposing himself to a minor. Please do not continue/read if that bothers you.
Word Count: 5.8k
Author’s Note: This was way longer than I expected, but I'm glad to be able to post it finally. I hope you enjoy a longer fluffy little sister Shelby fic! Also comments/reblogs feeds a writer's soul!
Y/N wasn’t usually an eavesdropper, but her family was so loud it didn’t really matter if she was trying to or not. She heard only pieces of what they were talking about, but it was clear on what the problem was. The Shelby family was running short on money. With their reputation, there wasn’t much that they needed to pay for, but maintaining that power requires people to be bought.
“We still need to buy Y/N’s medicine and school supplies,” Polly reminded the boys.
“She’s all better- does she still need medicine?” John asked.
“Yes,” Tommy answered shortly. He wasn’t going to let his younger sister suffer just because they hadn’t managed their money well this month.
“If you boys hadn’t put business before her as usual, she wouldn’t have gotten sick.”
Y/N felt her heart sink as she heard her name being mentioned as one of the reason they were short on the money. A few weeks ago, she caught pneumonia after walking home from school. Usually, one of the brothers would drop her off, but they were called away and she insisted that she would be fine. Tommy left a few Peaky boys around the city to keep an eye on her while having her believe that she was walking home independently. When it started raining, she thought nothing of it as she enjoyed the rain and didn’t find it as an inconvenience. That night as the boys got home, she couldn’t greet them with her usual energy as she felt ill. She skipped dinner and went to bed early, and by the next morning her fever almost overtook her. It was an awful few days, and she had to be hospitalized immediately. Tommy paid to make sure she was getting the best treatment, and as she realized, it must have costed the family a fortune. Her lips started wobbling at the thought that she was the reason her family was struggling, but she soon wiped away the tears, knowing it wouldn’t do anything. She made a promise to do her best to help the family. She started with eating less, skipping a few meals here and there to make sure the food can at least be stretched out without her eating it. Next was her school supplies, she was usually a meticulous scholar, having all her notes organized but she now made it a point to make sure she didn’t need to replace her items as quickly. Her final idea was to use some of her old clothes, and turn them into handkerchiefs to sell on the streets. She was a great seamstress for her age, and knew that this was something she would be able to do easily. With a new found resolve, she took a deep breath and got to work.
Y/N has been selling her handkerchiefs for a couple of days now, not earning as much as she wanted to, but at least it was something. She mostly sold them after school under the guise of playing, and would end up staying up to do her homework. This worked out in her favour as she can skip breakfast the next day for more sleep. She was getting quite tired, but her love for her family overpowered her desire to rest and sleep. It was a cold foggy day in Small Heath and Y/N was standing at a different street to attract new customers. She was trying to get the attention of the people walking by, but to no avail. Finally, she saw a man approach.
“Hi mister! Would you like to buy a handkerchief for a lovely lady in your life?” she asked with a huge smile. As the man got closer, her smile drop as she saw his intoxicated state and leery grin.
“Hey there little girl. It’s not safe for you to be out here all alone.”
“I-I’m not alone,” she lied. “My brothers are just at that shop.” She pointed to somewhere behind her, hoping her lie was believable enough.
“Uh huh.” The man got closer, close enough that she could smell the alcohol off him. “That’s a nice hankerchief you have there. Mind if I grab one-“ He plucked it out of her hand without hearing her answer, and stuffed it down his pants.
“Wh-What are you doing, mister?” she asked, as she saw his hand move inside his pants. He was moaning as if in pain, eyes closed. “Mister?”
“Fuck,” he cursed, shoulders dropping in relief. He took out the handkerchief, a white sticky substance staining the once floral pattern. With an evil grin, he grabbed the back of Y/N’s head, trying to stuff the handkerchief in her mouth. She squirmed against his grip.
“No! What are you doing?!” She was pushing his arm away but he was much stronger. He was able to smear the cloth against her cheek before he was pulled off her by another stranger.
“Now that’s not a very nice thing to do,” the man started. “Taking advantage of little girls.” He nodded towards someone behind him, and placed a comforting hand on the girl’s shoulder. “Are you okay, dove?”
She shook her head, unsure of what just happened.
He took another one of her handkerchief peaking out of her bag, and poured what smells like alcohol from the flask in his pocket. He gently rubbed the white substance off her face, making sure there were no traces left behind. “Make sure you clean your little face real good when you get home, okay dove?”
She ignored his suggestion, staring up at his somewhat familiar face. “Who are you?”
“Name’s Alfie Solomons. We’ve met before but you were just a little babe- about yeah high.” He motioned to a little lower than his knee. “You’re Y/N Shelby. Your brothers and I are business partners.”
At the mention of her brothers she lit up, trusting the man immediately.
“Now what is the likes of yourself doing on the streets? Don’t tell me that stubborn brother of yours cut you off from their money.”
She shook her head vehemently. “Tommy would never do that!” She stared at her shuffling feet, ashamed. “I made my family spend too much money so I want to pay them back. They’re not financially in a good spot.”
Alfie raised an eyebrow, unsure that the little Shelby knows what she just did by telling him that. Any of the Shelby’s enemy would yell in glee by that information, knowing that the mob family was vulnerable to attacks because of their lack of funding. Luckily, Alfie was quite fond of the Shelby family, and his new favourite was the one standing in front of him. His cold heart warmed at the thought that she was so worried for her family that she would go all the way to selling her stuff on the street as if there wasn’t a mark on her back because of her last name. “Well then today is your lucky day. I was looking for a little assistant to help me with things as I settle into me temporary home here.”
“Really? What kinda things?” she asked, eyes wide with hope.
The man was surprised at her eagerness, realizing that her siblings must’ve done a great job at protecting her from their world as she was still able to put her faith in people like that. “Just small things- picking up my groceries from the market, and maybe a prescription here and there from the pharmacy for me eye. I can pay you,” he paused, playing with his beard for the extra suspense. “Ten shillings a week.”
“Wow! That’s so much!” She agreed happily to his terms.
“Every Monday I will give you a list of what I need for the week, and I will pay you every week when you make your deliveries.”
“Thank you thank you!”
“Though before I hire you, you need to be better at indiscretion.”
“What does that mean?”
“You can’t go around telling people that your brothers don’t have money- your brother’s got enemies that could take him down with that information.”
Her eyes widened as she realized the severity of what she had done. “I’m so stupid!” she cried, hitting her head with her balled up fists.
“Hey, hey, there's no need for that now.” Alfie has seen grown men with less guilt for putting their family in danger with the information they divulged. “Lucky for you- you just told lil' old me, and I’m harmless.”
Y/N looked up to the London gangster with tears still lining her eyes.
“Don’t cry, dove. I’m sure even if you spent all of your brother’s money, they wouldn’t have the heart to be mad at ya.”
“I would never do that!” she said, taking his jokes quite seriously. “My family means everything to me.”
Alfie nodded, confirming that he made the right decision in hiring and caring for her. He walked her back to the outskirt of Shelby territory, knowing that her brothers would have people around to look out for her.
It’s been a few weeks since Y/N started her job as Alfie’s errand girl. Both her and the gangster was surprised that her brothers hadn’t caught wind of their relation. Though the two didn't spend more time than necessary together, they became quite close. Alfie was busy with running an organization, and Y/N was busy trying to get her homework finished. She also kept up with selling her handkerchief when she had time between running errands for Alfie, schoolwork, and pretending to be a normal kid in front of her family. She was upset that she couldn’t spend as much time with her siblings as before, but she knew she has to in order to make up for being a burden.
“Y/N,” Finn called, seeing his sister walking to their home after school. “Tommy’s called for a family meeting.”
Her eyes widened, and her heart started thundering with excitement. She raised a good amount of money, and felt like she could share with her family what she’s been up to. “Okay, Finn. I’ll be right there!” She ran to her room, grabbing her shoulder bag full of money and was basically vibrating with excitement while they waited for the entire family to trickle in. She sat in the middle of Arthur and John, ignoring their chuckles at her gleaming eyes.
“Sounds like it’ll be a breezy meeting if you’re letting Y/N sit this one in,” John commented towards Tommy who was lighting a cigarette.
“Let’s begin,” the older brother ignored the comment and started the meeting. “As you know-”
The youngest Shelby’s hand shot out in the air as if she was at school.
Tommy raised an eyebrow, trying not to show any indication of annoyance at his sister’s behaviour. The second oldest brother was too soft when it comes to matter to sister, and he would rather blind himself than purposely hurt her. “What is it?”
“I have something to share with you guys.” She pulled her out her messenger bag that she carries her handkerchief and the money she collected thus far with.
“What you got for us, girlie?” Arthur asked, peering into her bag to catch a glimpse of her gift to them.
She took her bag off, and emptied the contents on the table. The Shelby clan’s jaw dropped in shock. They weren’t expecting their youngest sibling to be emptying almost 100 shillings in cash on their table.
“How in the hell did you get that much money?” John asked.
“Girl, you better not be stealing,” Polly chastised, eyes narrowing.
“I’m not! I swear it.” She looked around for her family’s approving faces, but was just met with surprised and curious looks.
“Then you better explain yourself.”
“I overheard you guys talking a few weeks ago about being short, and I know it was my fault. I stupidly got sick so you guys had to spend money on me, and I felt really bad so I decided to help. I cut my old clothes and sewed them into handkerchiefs- I’ve been selling them on the streets to make the money.”
“You made this much selling handkerchiefs?” Tommy asked, an eyebrow raised in suspicion.
“Well… no… I wasn’t making much- just a few shillings here and there, but someone hired me!”
“Who?” Arthur asked.
“Mr. Solomons.”
“Y/N!” Polly berated. “Do you know who that is?”
“At first I didn’t, but he said he knew me since I was little. He was a really nice man, and he gave me 10 shillings every week to run some errands for him.”
“What kind of errands?”
“Just picking up groceries and prescription- that’s all!”
“I don’t want you seeing him again,” Tommy said sternly.
“But Tommy- he’s a real nice man.”
“Yea you said that already,” Arthur muttered, unamused by his sister’s connection.
“How did you even meet with the likes of him?” John asked, wondering how his sister got into contact with the mobster.
“Well… one day when I was selling my stuff, this man took my handkerchief and he stuffed it down his pants. I’m not sure what he was doing but he was rubbing it a lot in his pants, and making a lot of weird noises. When he was done there was this white icky stuff, and he wanted to put it in my mouth. I was so scared but Mr. Solomons came and saved me!”
“What the fuck?!” Arthur roared with fury. He jumped out of his seat, John following with him. “Who was this man? What did he look like?”
Y/N’s eyes widened in surprise at her brother’s reaction. “I-I don’t know. Mr. Solomons pulled the man away, and next thing I know the man was gone.” She turned to Tommy who’s jaw was clenched, and his knuckles were white from gripping his the edge of the table. “Am I in trouble, Tommy?” she asked quietly, head bowing down in shame.
“No.” He pushed himself off the table and placed a hand on her shoulder. “You did nothing wrong, but we are going to pay a visit to Mr. Solomons.”
She nodded, following her brothers who were hastily putting on their jackets. She usually held on to Tommy’s hand when they were out for safety, but he had both fists clenched the entire time, making her her believe that she was in trouble. Arthur and John were no different. She thought if they were cartoon characters they would have steam coming out of their ears. It didn’t take them long to get to Alfie's temporary lodging.
“Well well well… if it isn’t the Shelby boys, and the little princess.”
“Hi, Mr. Solomons!” she greeted with a wave and a smile.
“Hello, little one.”
Tommy moved to cover Y/N from Alfie’s gaze which did not go unnoticed.
“Oh relax, would you? I would never hurt a hair on little Y/N’s head. Didn’t you hear? I saved her from an unsightly perv-”
“Did you skin him alive?” Arthur growled. “Did you tear him apart and burn him to ashes?”
“Actually, I’m sure you’d be happy to know, but I have kept the lad barely alive. I figured once the littlest Shelby told you guys what she’s been up to, you lot would pay me a visit.”
“Where is he?!” Arthur grabbed Alfie’s collar, pushing him against the wall.
“Arthur-“ John placed a hand on his oldest brother’s shoulder. “Take it easy.”
“He’s in the barn by the outskirt of town. My men have been keeping him barely alive, but I’m not sure how much longer he’ll have.”
“Tommy-“ Arthur turned to his brother, a short silent conversation happening.
“Go.” Arthur and John didn’t waste another minute and left for the man.
“What are you trying to do, Alfie?”
“What?”
“Why are you helping us?”
“Correction. I’m helping Y/N. What she chooses to do with the money I give her is her choice. If she decides to spend all that money on the sweet ice cream shop across the street then that’s her choice, and if she decides to spend the money on helping her family, then I really can’t say anything, can I?”
Tommy’s eyes narrowed, and then flickered when Y/N wrapped her hand around his, seeing it was finally unclenched. “You hurt her in any way, and I will end you.”
“Despite your very hurtful assumptions of me, I would never hurt Y/N.”
She smiled at the older man, already considering him another kind uncle.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, little Shelby?”
“8am sharp!” she responded with a little salute.
“Alfie-“
“You can have your men escort her here or I can have my men pick her up and drop her off at your residence. She’s never been alone while running errands-“
“What?!” Y/N exclaimed, surprised at the revelation.
“You think I would let a little Shelby running around associating with me unattended, child? That’s as good as a death wish. I had my men following you to make sure no one would mess with ya.”
The girl pouted, thinking of the bodyguards as babysitters. “I’m not a baby.”
“No, you’re not,” Tommy started, ignoring Alfie’s raised eyebrow, “but you are still a child, and we are not going to take that risk of you running around by yourself.” Not with a target on your back, Tommy added in his thoughts.
As they were heading out, Alfie put a hand on Tommy’s shoulder, stopping the man in his tracks and leaned near his ear. “Girl’s too hard on herself. Now, I don’t what you Shelby boys have been filling her head with but she’s got more loyalty than the lot of you. Make sure you pay her the same respect. She don’t need to be skipping meals trying save y’alls money, but she does it anyways.”
Tommy’s jaw clenched, nodding sharply. “See you around.”
“See you later, brother.”
As they walked out, Y/N tugged on her older brother’s hand. “Tommy, where are we going?”
“We’re gonna make sure Arthur and John do their job,” Tommy simply replied.
“I-I have to see the man again?” she asked, her voice trembling.
“No,” he answered right away. “This man will never bother you again.”
Tommy said nothing as they continued their journey to the barn. In truth he wanted a piece of action in giving the man what he deserved, and he knew he shouldn’t take her with them because this was what he wanted to protect her from, but at the same time he needed her to be physically with him to make sure she was safe. He couldn’t believe in his stress he didn’t check up on her like he should- he didn’t make sure she was safe. The fact that this man was able to even approach her like that was something he thought should’ve never happened. He knew now that she needed more protection- more people to watch out for her. He was more than disgusted at what that piece of garbage did, and he wanted to make sure he paid for his crimes. His sister is pure in every way, and he wasn’t going to let anyone make her feel uncomfortable like that again. He made sure she wasn’t exposed to the dirty life they lead, and if it was up to him he would make sure she never would.
Tommy made sure Y/N stayed in the car, telling her that one of the brothers would be out in a bit to keep her company. He entered the barn, hand already on his gun. He wasn’t surprised that Arthur was still beating the bloodied man up while John leaned on the wall, his fists equally bloodied.
“John, go keep Y/N company outside. Arthur,” Tommy called for his brother’s attention. “Is the man dead?”
“Not yet. I want the fucker to suffer as much as I could,” the oldest Shelby said, spitting at the barely alive man.
Tommy stepped closer, hearing his raspy breathing from the beating he took. He took out his gun, pointing to the man’s crotch. “There’s a special place in hell for people like you.” The Shelby leader kept his voice low, making sure the man wait in anticipation at what he was going to do. He shot the first bullet, the man howling in pain. The two ruthless brothers watched him writhe around before he passed out, then Tommy shot the final bullet to his temple.
Arthur pulled out his lighter from his pocket, dropping it on the man before leaving the burning barn with his brother. Outside, John had Y/N in his arms, the little girl laughing at his animated stories. The two older brothers got in the car and drove away.
When dinner came around, Tommy watched as Y/N serve the kitchen staff heaping of food on their plate, but only put barely any on her plate. He was reminded of Alfie’s words, and stepped behind Y/N. He grabbed the spoon she was serving herself with and the plate, putting more food on it.
“To-Tommy, I’m not that hungry!”
“There’s plenty of food, so eat.”
“I was planning to eat the leftovers tomorrow for lunch.”
“There’ll be food tomorrow for your breakfast and lunch.” He didn’t miss the fact that she purposely skipped breakfast.
“Bu-“
“You haven’t been eating,” he said, and the little girl froze.
She lowered her head, and Tommy’s heart dropped to his stomach when he caught her glistening eyes, and the reflection of her tears on her cheeks. He immediately put the food down, going down on one knee to see her face. “Why are you crying, love?”
“Tommy, I’m sorry.”
“What are you sorry for, love? I told you nothing was your fault.”
“Everything is my fault though! I can’t do anything right!” she exclaimed, tears running down her face. He pulled her up, carrying her to his office for more privacy and sat down on his couch with her on his lap.
“What’s this all about- why aren’t you eating?”
“I just feel awful,” she wailed finally, her eyes never meeting her brother’s in shame. “I got sick and you all had to pay so much for my medicine! I tried to eat less to make up the money you guys spent on me, but it didn’t feel like enough-“
“No,” he said sternly. “You are not missing meals or eating less because you feel guilty. You will eat the proper amount, got it?”
“But-“
“Don’t make me tell Polly to monitor your meals.”
“I just wanted to do my part in helping with the family. You guys do so much for me, and I haven’t done anything.”
“Y/N, you are a child. You don’t need to worry yourself with these things. Your big brothers are gonna take care of everything for you.”
“But you’re already so stressed out, and I feel like I’m causing so much trouble. I’m not even worth it-“
“Y/N M/N Shelby,” Tommy hissed. Despite his tone, he gently grabbed her chin with his index finger, forcing her to look at him. With tears lining her eyes, she finally met his soft blue eyes, finding no trace of resentment but only love. “You will never say those words again.”
“Tommy-“
“You are worth everything and more than what we have. If I have to lose everything we own and burn down this whole city for you, I will. You are the most important thing in my life, and I will not hear you say those words again.”
“‘m sorry, Tommy.”
“Stop apologizing. You have done nothing wrong.” She leaned back down, her tears stopping to a few sniffles. “So here’s what we’re gonna do. You will eat to your fill, and tomorrow we will get ice cream after you’ve finished your errands.”
Her head snapped back up at the mention of her favourite treat. “Ice cream?”
“Yes, but you have to finish the food on your plate.”
With a wide grin she nodded, jumping out of his lap to get started on her food. He went over to the family room, finding his family getting read to head to the kitchen.
“Why has no one noticed Y/N hasn’t been eating?” he thundered, glaring at his family members for not noticing her lack of proper care.
“She’s not?” John asked, thinking back to his encounters with her.
“I thought she was just getting conscious about her body,” Polly shrugged. “You know how girls that age are, but I always made sure to put more food on her plate.”
“She has been skipping meals because she feels bad that we’re spending money on her, and I will not let that happen ever again. If anyone sees anything amiss- anything at all, you come straight to me.”
“Y’know,” Arthur started, scratching the ends of his moustache. “When I checked her homework the other day, I noticed that she was writing extra small. Me thinks she’s trying to extend her school supplies as well.” The brothers had long stopped making fun of Arthur for insisting on checking her homework. Everyone knew Y/N was the most educated on paper, but Arthur felt it was his obligation as her oldest brother to see that her homework was done and done well.
Tommy placed a hand on his forehead, wondering how much he’s missed in the last few months. “Fuck,” he cursed.
When the family went to the kitchen, they frowned when they saw Y/N staring at her food without eating a single bite. When she saw them come in, she burst into a huge smile. “I was waiting for you to eat together!”
“Oh silly girl. Your food’s all cold now,” Polly chided.
“It’s okay!” she shook her head. Arthur took the plate in front of her while Polly prepared another plate fresh from the stove, adding a bit more food than what initially had. “Arthur no! You can’t have my cold food.”
“D’n worry, love. It’ll get warm in my belly anyways!” He put both hands on his belly, patting it.
She giggled at the sight, and her eyes twinkled at the sight of her family around her. They all made jokes with her whilst still making sure she was eating so when she cleared her plate, Polly sneakily grabbed her plate while Arthur was distracting her and put a little more food in front of her. To everyone’s delight she ate it all, yawning after all the food was gone and the laughters died down.
“Tommy, can everyone come get ice cream with me tomorrow?”
“You were gonna get ice cream without us?” John asked, hand on his chest as if the thought offended him.
"Never!" she shook her head. "We're all going, right Tommy?" Her brother could only nod at her request with a small smile.
Arthur cleared his throat and got up. “Now before you go to bed, love, we need to check your homework. Perhaps we can clean your backpack as well.”
“Okay, Arthur.” She hopped off her chair, grabbing his hand and leading him to her room where she does all her homework. She took out her notebook, and Arthur immediately noticed the worn out pages from how little she had written in the notebook- it was barely legible.
“Love, I can barely read your writing!” he exclaimed. “You need to write bigger next time- for your dear old brother’s sake, eh?”
“Sorry, Arthur.” She looked down at her shoes. “I was trying to make my notebooks last longer so you wouldn’t have to buy me more.”
“None of that. You’re our little scholar- we need you to be studying hard with all the right supplies or else who’s gonna be keeping Tommy in line?”
She giggled at his jokes, and nodded, relieved that she didn’t have to lie to her brothers anymore.
“Now, read me your answers so your dear old brother doesn’t have to strain his eyes.” He sat on her chair, picking her up to put on his lap just like when she was smaller.
She read him the questions and her answers, pointing them out so there were no spelling errors either.
“Well, we got ourselves a little Shelby genius here!” he kissed her cheek, and she flinched away from his moustache, giggling all the way.
“It tickles!” she shrieked as he continued to rub his cheeks against her soft ones.
“Alright, love. Good job on your homework.”
“Can I go to bed not, Artie? I’m feeling kinda tired?” the littlest Shelby yawned to prove her point, already almost dozing off.
“Tired, eh? What have you been doing to be so tired?” Arthur asked it as a joke, but Y/N avoided his eyes as she thought he was being serious.
“I’ve been staying up late making the handkerchief, and waking up early to sell it so I can do errands for Alfie after school and still do my chores when I get home.”
Arthur’s heart broke hearing how much his youngest sister has been working, and he immediately gave her a hug. “You don’t need to do that anymore, love. Tommy’s got a plan- kid like you don’t need to be working so hard, eh?”
She nodded, almost already dozing off in her brother’s embrace.
“Go get ready for bed, and I’ll come back to tuck you in.”
“Okay!” She left for the bathroom, and Arthur went back to the kitchen where his family had stayed to grab her a glass of water for the night.
He gave a deep sigh, rubbing his forehead and closing his eyes tightly.
“Is Y/N okay?” John asked, his oldest brother’s state putting him on alert.
“Girl’s been working herself to the bone for the last month- staying up late, not eating, and still trying to run everyone’s errands. She’s fucking exhausted and it’s not even 8pm yet where before she would be begging us to play with her until midnight.” Arthur shook his head, filling up the water in the cup and leaving again.
“You tucking her in?” Tommy asked.
“Yea. She asked if she could sleep early- nearly fell asleep on me.”
Tommy nodded, following his older brother to her room. Y/N was brushing her hair, lighting up when she saw her brothers again. Arthur placed the glass of water beside her bed, and came up to her to take the brush from her hand. He finished brushing her hair for her, reminding the siblings of when she was younger and sat on his lap while he tried figuring out how to braid her hair.
“There you go, love. Prettiest girl in all of Small Heath.”
She giggled, but shook her head. “No, Artie- That’s Ada!”
“You both are the prettiest girls in Small Heath, and dare I say the whole world!”
Y/N giggled again, giving her brother a big hug before settling in bed where Tommy was standing by. He smiled as she got under the covers, and he sat down on the edge of her bed, pulling the covers right under her chin. He placed a hand on her small face, rubbing at her cheek with his thumb. He noted how soft and smooth it was, reminding him just how young she was. He leaned down to place a kiss on her forehead.
“I love you, Y/N- so much,” he whispered seeing her eyes droop.
“I love you too, Tommy,” she mumbled before succumbing to her tiredness.
The next day, Y/N and her brothers made their way to the ice cream shop. Suddenly, she stopped and gasped. “We should invite Alfie!”
The brothers couldn’t stop their sister in time before she ran off to his house, and they were quick to follower her. She knocked on his door, rocking on her feet in excitement. When the door opened, she was surprised to find someone else at the door. She hadn’t noticed but her brothers surely did that his hand was underneath his coat, most likely holding on to a gun.
“Excuse me, is Mr. Solomons home?” she asked before being pulled back by Finn behind her other brothers who had stood in front of her.
“Ah if it isn’t the Shelby clan,” the man muttered.
“Who’s there?” Alfie asked, approaching the door.
“Alfie!” Y/N greeted, shaking off Finn’s hand around her. “D’you wanna come with us to the ice cream shop?”
“Well I can’t refuse a little lady as yourself.” He grabbed his hat, and gave instructions to the man who opened the door. “Be a dear and finish up here, why don’t you.”
The Camden mobster followed the family to the ice cream shop, everyone in the shop immediately ceasing their chatter. Y/N paid no attention to the fear in everyone’s eyes as she ran up to the selection of ice cream they had.
“Mister, I want ice cream for all of us, please!” she ordered. “I can pay for everyone!” She held up her little horse purse that Tommy got her so long ago.
“Oh, there’s no need for that,” Alfie said, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“No, no! I want to treat you guys to ice cream.” As she went back to picking a flavour, the 4 mobster (and Finn) stared the poor owner down, not having to say a single word to get their point across.
“Don’t worry about paying Miss Shelby. Your ice creams are on the house!” he said trying to sound jovial, but tripping over his words.
Y/N didn’t notice his stutter, but beamed in happiness. “Really?”
“Yes- you never have to pay for ice cream here!”
“Wow! That’s very nice of you, mister!”
Y/N made sure everyone got their ice cream first, having a habit of putting everyone first. When it was time for her ice cream, the man made the mistake of making eye contact with Alfie. His shaking hands didn’t wait for Y/N to grab the ice cream, and slipped form her tiny hands and on the floor.
“Oh no- oh God,” the man immediately muttered. You could hear a pin drop at how quiet it was in the shop. People tensed, waiting for a bloodbath to occur.
Y/n gasped in surprise. “Oh no! Spilled ice cream. I’m sorry mister- I can help clean up!” She narrated the event only like a child could.
“Oh- uh- well- Don’t worry about the mess,” the man sputtered. “It was my fault. I can give you another ice cream.”
“It’s okay mister. You already gave us all ice cream,” Y/N said, trying to hide her disappointment. Her bottom lip jutted out slightly, and her shoulders were slouched. “Thank you though.”
The man could feel the mobsters tearing him up with their eyes. Finally it was Tommy who spoke up. “Here, love. You can have my ice cream. I know it’s your favourite flavour.” Seeing as Y/N wanted to be just like Tommy in every way, it didn’t surprise anyone that they shared the same love for a certain flavoured ice cream.
“But it’s yours, Tommy.”
“I wasn’t hungry anyways.” He placed it in her hand, making sure she had wrapped her hand around it before letting go. “Let’s go home now.”
“Okay, Tommy! Thank you.”
No one dared breath until the gang was out of the shop. However it was made clear in those short moments of two things. One, little Y/N Shelby was one of the most polite and kind kid of her age group. And two, she was also one of the most protected kid in all of England. The hold she has on the two of the most feared gang in England made her a force to be reckoned with.
Characters: Shelby Brothers x Shelby!Sister; Alfie Solomons
Summary: Y/N Shelby is starting to feel a burden to her family, and wanted to do her part in helping the family- except she decided to work with another gangster to help her with her cause.
Warnings: A rotten dude exposing himself to a minor. Please do not continue/read if that bothers you.
Word Count: 5.8k
Author’s Note: This was way longer than I expected, but I'm glad to be able to post it finally. I hope you enjoy a longer fluffy little sister Shelby fic! Also comments/reblogs feeds a writer's soul!
Y/N wasn’t usually an eavesdropper, but her family was so loud it didn’t really matter if she was trying to or not. She heard only pieces of what they were talking about, but it was clear on what the problem was. The Shelby family was running short on money. With their reputation, there wasn’t much that they needed to pay for, but maintaining that power requires people to be bought.
“We still need to buy Y/N’s medicine and school supplies,” Polly reminded the boys.
“She’s all better- does she still need medicine?” John asked.
“Yes,” Tommy answered shortly. He wasn’t going to let his younger sister suffer just because they hadn’t managed their money well this month.
“If you boys hadn’t put business before her as usual, she wouldn’t have gotten sick.”
Y/N felt her heart sink as she heard her name being mentioned as one of the reason they were short on the money. A few weeks ago, she caught pneumonia after walking home from school. Usually, one of the brothers would drop her off, but they were called away and she insisted that she would be fine. Tommy left a few Peaky boys around the city to keep an eye on her while having her believe that she was walking home independently. When it started raining, she thought nothing of it as she enjoyed the rain and didn’t find it as an inconvenience. That night as the boys got home, she couldn’t greet them with her usual energy as she felt ill. She skipped dinner and went to bed early, and by the next morning her fever almost overtook her. It was an awful few days, and she had to be hospitalized immediately. Tommy paid to make sure she was getting the best treatment, and as she realized, it must have costed the family a fortune. Her lips started wobbling at the thought that she was the reason her family was struggling, but she soon wiped away the tears, knowing it wouldn’t do anything. She made a promise to do her best to help the family. She started with eating less, skipping a few meals here and there to make sure the food can at least be stretched out without her eating it. Next was her school supplies, she was usually a meticulous scholar, having all her notes organized but she now made it a point to make sure she didn’t need to replace her items as quickly. Her final idea was to use some of her old clothes, and turn them into handkerchiefs to sell on the streets. She was a great seamstress for her age, and knew that this was something she would be able to do easily. With a new found resolve, she took a deep breath and got to work.
Y/N has been selling her handkerchiefs for a couple of days now, not earning as much as she wanted to, but at least it was something. She mostly sold them after school under the guise of playing, and would end up staying up to do her homework. This worked out in her favour as she can skip breakfast the next day for more sleep. She was getting quite tired, but her love for her family overpowered her desire to rest and sleep. It was a cold foggy day in Small Heath and Y/N was standing at a different street to attract new customers. She was trying to get the attention of the people walking by, but to no avail. Finally, she saw a man approach.
“Hi mister! Would you like to buy a handkerchief for a lovely lady in your life?” she asked with a huge smile. As the man got closer, her smile drop as she saw his intoxicated state and leery grin.
“Hey there little girl. It’s not safe for you to be out here all alone.”
“I-I’m not alone,” she lied. “My brothers are just at that shop.” She pointed to somewhere behind her, hoping her lie was believable enough.
“Uh huh.” The man got closer, close enough that she could smell the alcohol off him. “That’s a nice hankerchief you have there. Mind if I grab one-“ He plucked it out of her hand without hearing her answer, and stuffed it down his pants.
“Wh-What are you doing, mister?” she asked, as she saw his hand move inside his pants. He was moaning as if in pain, eyes closed. “Mister?”
“Fuck,” he cursed, shoulders dropping in relief. He took out the handkerchief, a white sticky substance staining the once floral pattern. With an evil grin, he grabbed the back of Y/N’s head, trying to stuff the handkerchief in her mouth. She squirmed against his grip.
“No! What are you doing?!” She was pushing his arm away but he was much stronger. He was able to smear the cloth against her cheek before he was pulled off her by another stranger.
“Now that’s not a very nice thing to do,” the man started. “Taking advantage of little girls.” He nodded towards someone behind him, and placed a comforting hand on the girl’s shoulder. “Are you okay, dove?”
She shook her head, unsure of what just happened.
He took another one of her handkerchief peaking out of her bag, and poured what smells like alcohol from the flask in his pocket. He gently rubbed the white substance off her face, making sure there were no traces left behind. “Make sure you clean your little face real good when you get home, okay dove?”
She ignored his suggestion, staring up at his somewhat familiar face. “Who are you?”
“Name’s Alfie Solomons. We’ve met before but you were just a little babe- about yeah high.” He motioned to a little lower than his knee. “You’re Y/N Shelby. Your brothers and I are business partners.”
At the mention of her brothers she lit up, trusting the man immediately.
“Now what is the likes of yourself doing on the streets? Don’t tell me that stubborn brother of yours cut you off from their money.”
She shook her head vehemently. “Tommy would never do that!” She stared at her shuffling feet, ashamed. “I made my family spend too much money so I want to pay them back. They’re not financially in a good spot.”
Alfie raised an eyebrow, unsure that the little Shelby knows what she just did by telling him that. Any of the Shelby’s enemy would yell in glee by that information, knowing that the mob family was vulnerable to attacks because of their lack of funding. Luckily, Alfie was quite fond of the Shelby family, and his new favourite was the one standing in front of him. His cold heart warmed at the thought that she was so worried for her family that she would go all the way to selling her stuff on the street as if there wasn’t a mark on her back because of her last name. “Well then today is your lucky day. I was looking for a little assistant to help me with things as I settle into me temporary home here.”
“Really? What kinda things?” she asked, eyes wide with hope.
The man was surprised at her eagerness, realizing that her siblings must’ve done a great job at protecting her from their world as she was still able to put her faith in people like that. “Just small things- picking up my groceries from the market, and maybe a prescription here and there from the pharmacy for me eye. I can pay you,” he paused, playing with his beard for the extra suspense. “Ten shillings a week.”
“Wow! That’s so much!” She agreed happily to his terms.
“Every Monday I will give you a list of what I need for the week, and I will pay you every week when you make your deliveries.”
“Thank you thank you!”
“Though before I hire you, you need to be better at indiscretion.”
“What does that mean?”
“You can’t go around telling people that your brothers don’t have money- your brother’s got enemies that could take him down with that information.”
Her eyes widened as she realized the severity of what she had done. “I’m so stupid!” she cried, hitting her head with her balled up fists.
“Hey, hey, there's no need for that now.” Alfie has seen grown men with less guilt for putting their family in danger with the information they divulged. “Lucky for you- you just told lil' old me, and I’m harmless.”
Y/N looked up to the London gangster with tears still lining her eyes.
“Don’t cry, dove. I’m sure even if you spent all of your brother’s money, they wouldn’t have the heart to be mad at ya.”
“I would never do that!” she said, taking his jokes quite seriously. “My family means everything to me.”
Alfie nodded, confirming that he made the right decision in hiring and caring for her. He walked her back to the outskirt of Shelby territory, knowing that her brothers would have people around to look out for her.
It’s been a few weeks since Y/N started her job as Alfie’s errand girl. Both her and the gangster was surprised that her brothers hadn’t caught wind of their relation. Though the two didn't spend more time than necessary together, they became quite close. Alfie was busy with running an organization, and Y/N was busy trying to get her homework finished. She also kept up with selling her handkerchief when she had time between running errands for Alfie, schoolwork, and pretending to be a normal kid in front of her family. She was upset that she couldn’t spend as much time with her siblings as before, but she knew she has to in order to make up for being a burden.
“Y/N,” Finn called, seeing his sister walking to their home after school. “Tommy’s called for a family meeting.”
Her eyes widened, and her heart started thundering with excitement. She raised a good amount of money, and felt like she could share with her family what she’s been up to. “Okay, Finn. I’ll be right there!” She ran to her room, grabbing her shoulder bag full of money and was basically vibrating with excitement while they waited for the entire family to trickle in. She sat in the middle of Arthur and John, ignoring their chuckles at her gleaming eyes.
“Sounds like it’ll be a breezy meeting if you’re letting Y/N sit this one in,” John commented towards Tommy who was lighting a cigarette.
“Let’s begin,” the older brother ignored the comment and started the meeting. “As you know-”
The youngest Shelby’s hand shot out in the air as if she was at school.
Tommy raised an eyebrow, trying not to show any indication of annoyance at his sister’s behaviour. The second oldest brother was too soft when it comes to matter to sister, and he would rather blind himself than purposely hurt her. “What is it?”
“I have something to share with you guys.” She pulled her out her messenger bag that she carries her handkerchief and the money she collected thus far with.
“What you got for us, girlie?” Arthur asked, peering into her bag to catch a glimpse of her gift to them.
She took her bag off, and emptied the contents on the table. The Shelby clan’s jaw dropped in shock. They weren’t expecting their youngest sibling to be emptying almost 100 shillings in cash on their table.
“How in the hell did you get that much money?” John asked.
“Girl, you better not be stealing,” Polly chastised, eyes narrowing.
“I’m not! I swear it.” She looked around for her family’s approving faces, but was just met with surprised and curious looks.
“Then you better explain yourself.”
“I overheard you guys talking a few weeks ago about being short, and I know it was my fault. I stupidly got sick so you guys had to spend money on me, and I felt really bad so I decided to help. I cut my old clothes and sewed them into handkerchiefs- I’ve been selling them on the streets to make the money.”
“You made this much selling handkerchiefs?” Tommy asked, an eyebrow raised in suspicion.
“Well… no… I wasn’t making much- just a few shillings here and there, but someone hired me!”
“Who?” Arthur asked.
“Mr. Solomons.”
“Y/N!” Polly berated. “Do you know who that is?”
“At first I didn’t, but he said he knew me since I was little. He was a really nice man, and he gave me 10 shillings every week to run some errands for him.”
“What kind of errands?”
“Just picking up groceries and prescription- that’s all!”
“I don’t want you seeing him again,” Tommy said sternly.
“But Tommy- he’s a real nice man.”
“Yea you said that already,” Arthur muttered, unamused by his sister’s connection.
“How did you even meet with the likes of him?” John asked, wondering how his sister got into contact with the mobster.
“Well… one day when I was selling my stuff, this man took my handkerchief and he stuffed it down his pants. I’m not sure what he was doing but he was rubbing it a lot in his pants, and making a lot of weird noises. When he was done there was this white icky stuff, and he wanted to put it in my mouth. I was so scared but Mr. Solomons came and saved me!”
“What the fuck?!” Arthur roared with fury. He jumped out of his seat, John following with him. “Who was this man? What did he look like?”
Y/N’s eyes widened in surprise at her brother’s reaction. “I-I don’t know. Mr. Solomons pulled the man away, and next thing I know the man was gone.” She turned to Tommy who’s jaw was clenched, and his knuckles were white from gripping his the edge of the table. “Am I in trouble, Tommy?” she asked quietly, head bowing down in shame.
“No.” He pushed himself off the table and placed a hand on her shoulder. “You did nothing wrong, but we are going to pay a visit to Mr. Solomons.”
She nodded, following her brothers who were hastily putting on their jackets. She usually held on to Tommy’s hand when they were out for safety, but he had both fists clenched the entire time, making her her believe that she was in trouble. Arthur and John were no different. She thought if they were cartoon characters they would have steam coming out of their ears. It didn’t take them long to get to Alfie's temporary lodging.
“Well well well… if it isn’t the Shelby boys, and the little princess.”
“Hi, Mr. Solomons!” she greeted with a wave and a smile.
“Hello, little one.”
Tommy moved to cover Y/N from Alfie’s gaze which did not go unnoticed.
“Oh relax, would you? I would never hurt a hair on little Y/N’s head. Didn’t you hear? I saved her from an unsightly perv-”
“Did you skin him alive?” Arthur growled. “Did you tear him apart and burn him to ashes?”
“Actually, I’m sure you’d be happy to know, but I have kept the lad barely alive. I figured once the littlest Shelby told you guys what she’s been up to, you lot would pay me a visit.”
“Where is he?!” Arthur grabbed Alfie’s collar, pushing him against the wall.
“Arthur-“ John placed a hand on his oldest brother’s shoulder. “Take it easy.”
“He’s in the barn by the outskirt of town. My men have been keeping him barely alive, but I’m not sure how much longer he’ll have.”
“Tommy-“ Arthur turned to his brother, a short silent conversation happening.
“Go.” Arthur and John didn’t waste another minute and left for the man.
“What are you trying to do, Alfie?”
“What?”
“Why are you helping us?”
“Correction. I’m helping Y/N. What she chooses to do with the money I give her is her choice. If she decides to spend all that money on the sweet ice cream shop across the street then that’s her choice, and if she decides to spend the money on helping her family, then I really can’t say anything, can I?”
Tommy’s eyes narrowed, and then flickered when Y/N wrapped her hand around his, seeing it was finally unclenched. “You hurt her in any way, and I will end you.”
“Despite your very hurtful assumptions of me, I would never hurt Y/N.”
She smiled at the older man, already considering him another kind uncle.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, little Shelby?”
“8am sharp!” she responded with a little salute.
“Alfie-“
“You can have your men escort her here or I can have my men pick her up and drop her off at your residence. She’s never been alone while running errands-“
“What?!” Y/N exclaimed, surprised at the revelation.
“You think I would let a little Shelby running around associating with me unattended, child? That’s as good as a death wish. I had my men following you to make sure no one would mess with ya.”
The girl pouted, thinking of the bodyguards as babysitters. “I’m not a baby.”
“No, you’re not,” Tommy started, ignoring Alfie’s raised eyebrow, “but you are still a child, and we are not going to take that risk of you running around by yourself.” Not with a target on your back, Tommy added in his thoughts.
As they were heading out, Alfie put a hand on Tommy’s shoulder, stopping the man in his tracks and leaned near his ear. “Girl’s too hard on herself. Now, I don’t what you Shelby boys have been filling her head with but she’s got more loyalty than the lot of you. Make sure you pay her the same respect. She don’t need to be skipping meals trying save y’alls money, but she does it anyways.”
Tommy’s jaw clenched, nodding sharply. “See you around.”
“See you later, brother.”
As they walked out, Y/N tugged on her older brother’s hand. “Tommy, where are we going?”
“We’re gonna make sure Arthur and John do their job,” Tommy simply replied.
“I-I have to see the man again?” she asked, her voice trembling.
“No,” he answered right away. “This man will never bother you again.”
Tommy said nothing as they continued their journey to the barn. In truth he wanted a piece of action in giving the man what he deserved, and he knew he shouldn’t take her with them because this was what he wanted to protect her from, but at the same time he needed her to be physically with him to make sure she was safe. He couldn’t believe in his stress he didn’t check up on her like he should- he didn’t make sure she was safe. The fact that this man was able to even approach her like that was something he thought should’ve never happened. He knew now that she needed more protection- more people to watch out for her. He was more than disgusted at what that piece of garbage did, and he wanted to make sure he paid for his crimes. His sister is pure in every way, and he wasn’t going to let anyone make her feel uncomfortable like that again. He made sure she wasn’t exposed to the dirty life they lead, and if it was up to him he would make sure she never would.
Tommy made sure Y/N stayed in the car, telling her that one of the brothers would be out in a bit to keep her company. He entered the barn, hand already on his gun. He wasn’t surprised that Arthur was still beating the bloodied man up while John leaned on the wall, his fists equally bloodied.
“John, go keep Y/N company outside. Arthur,” Tommy called for his brother’s attention. “Is the man dead?”
“Not yet. I want the fucker to suffer as much as I could,” the oldest Shelby said, spitting at the barely alive man.
Tommy stepped closer, hearing his raspy breathing from the beating he took. He took out his gun, pointing to the man’s crotch. “There’s a special place in hell for people like you.” The Shelby leader kept his voice low, making sure the man wait in anticipation at what he was going to do. He shot the first bullet, the man howling in pain. The two ruthless brothers watched him writhe around before he passed out, then Tommy shot the final bullet to his temple.
Arthur pulled out his lighter from his pocket, dropping it on the man before leaving the burning barn with his brother. Outside, John had Y/N in his arms, the little girl laughing at his animated stories. The two older brothers got in the car and drove away.
When dinner came around, Tommy watched as Y/N serve the kitchen staff heaping of food on their plate, but only put barely any on her plate. He was reminded of Alfie’s words, and stepped behind Y/N. He grabbed the spoon she was serving herself with and the plate, putting more food on it.
“To-Tommy, I’m not that hungry!”
“There’s plenty of food, so eat.”
“I was planning to eat the leftovers tomorrow for lunch.”
“There’ll be food tomorrow for your breakfast and lunch.” He didn’t miss the fact that she purposely skipped breakfast.
“Bu-“
“You haven’t been eating,” he said, and the little girl froze.
She lowered her head, and Tommy’s heart dropped to his stomach when he caught her glistening eyes, and the reflection of her tears on her cheeks. He immediately put the food down, going down on one knee to see her face. “Why are you crying, love?”
“Tommy, I’m sorry.”
“What are you sorry for, love? I told you nothing was your fault.”
“Everything is my fault though! I can’t do anything right!” she exclaimed, tears running down her face. He pulled her up, carrying her to his office for more privacy and sat down on his couch with her on his lap.
“What’s this all about- why aren’t you eating?”
“I just feel awful,” she wailed finally, her eyes never meeting her brother’s in shame. “I got sick and you all had to pay so much for my medicine! I tried to eat less to make up the money you guys spent on me, but it didn’t feel like enough-“
“No,” he said sternly. “You are not missing meals or eating less because you feel guilty. You will eat the proper amount, got it?”
“But-“
“Don’t make me tell Polly to monitor your meals.”
“I just wanted to do my part in helping with the family. You guys do so much for me, and I haven’t done anything.”
“Y/N, you are a child. You don’t need to worry yourself with these things. Your big brothers are gonna take care of everything for you.”
“But you’re already so stressed out, and I feel like I’m causing so much trouble. I’m not even worth it-“
“Y/N M/N Shelby,” Tommy hissed. Despite his tone, he gently grabbed her chin with his index finger, forcing her to look at him. With tears lining her eyes, she finally met his soft blue eyes, finding no trace of resentment but only love. “You will never say those words again.”
“Tommy-“
“You are worth everything and more than what we have. If I have to lose everything we own and burn down this whole city for you, I will. You are the most important thing in my life, and I will not hear you say those words again.”
“‘m sorry, Tommy.”
“Stop apologizing. You have done nothing wrong.” She leaned back down, her tears stopping to a few sniffles. “So here’s what we’re gonna do. You will eat to your fill, and tomorrow we will get ice cream after you’ve finished your errands.”
Her head snapped back up at the mention of her favourite treat. “Ice cream?”
“Yes, but you have to finish the food on your plate.”
With a wide grin she nodded, jumping out of his lap to get started on her food. He went over to the family room, finding his family getting read to head to the kitchen.
“Why has no one noticed Y/N hasn’t been eating?” he thundered, glaring at his family members for not noticing her lack of proper care.
“She’s not?” John asked, thinking back to his encounters with her.
“I thought she was just getting conscious about her body,” Polly shrugged. “You know how girls that age are, but I always made sure to put more food on her plate.”
“She has been skipping meals because she feels bad that we’re spending money on her, and I will not let that happen ever again. If anyone sees anything amiss- anything at all, you come straight to me.”
“Y’know,” Arthur started, scratching the ends of his moustache. “When I checked her homework the other day, I noticed that she was writing extra small. Me thinks she’s trying to extend her school supplies as well.” The brothers had long stopped making fun of Arthur for insisting on checking her homework. Everyone knew Y/N was the most educated on paper, but Arthur felt it was his obligation as her oldest brother to see that her homework was done and done well.
Tommy placed a hand on his forehead, wondering how much he’s missed in the last few months. “Fuck,” he cursed.
When the family went to the kitchen, they frowned when they saw Y/N staring at her food without eating a single bite. When she saw them come in, she burst into a huge smile. “I was waiting for you to eat together!”
“Oh silly girl. Your food’s all cold now,” Polly chided.
“It’s okay!” she shook her head. Arthur took the plate in front of her while Polly prepared another plate fresh from the stove, adding a bit more food than what initially had. “Arthur no! You can’t have my cold food.”
“D’n worry, love. It’ll get warm in my belly anyways!” He put both hands on his belly, patting it.
She giggled at the sight, and her eyes twinkled at the sight of her family around her. They all made jokes with her whilst still making sure she was eating so when she cleared her plate, Polly sneakily grabbed her plate while Arthur was distracting her and put a little more food in front of her. To everyone’s delight she ate it all, yawning after all the food was gone and the laughters died down.
“Tommy, can everyone come get ice cream with me tomorrow?”
“You were gonna get ice cream without us?” John asked, hand on his chest as if the thought offended him.
"Never!" she shook her head. "We're all going, right Tommy?" Her brother could only nod at her request with a small smile.
Arthur cleared his throat and got up. “Now before you go to bed, love, we need to check your homework. Perhaps we can clean your backpack as well.”
“Okay, Arthur.” She hopped off her chair, grabbing his hand and leading him to her room where she does all her homework. She took out her notebook, and Arthur immediately noticed the worn out pages from how little she had written in the notebook- it was barely legible.
“Love, I can barely read your writing!” he exclaimed. “You need to write bigger next time- for your dear old brother’s sake, eh?”
“Sorry, Arthur.” She looked down at her shoes. “I was trying to make my notebooks last longer so you wouldn’t have to buy me more.”
“None of that. You’re our little scholar- we need you to be studying hard with all the right supplies or else who’s gonna be keeping Tommy in line?”
She giggled at his jokes, and nodded, relieved that she didn’t have to lie to her brothers anymore.
“Now, read me your answers so your dear old brother doesn’t have to strain his eyes.” He sat on her chair, picking her up to put on his lap just like when she was smaller.
She read him the questions and her answers, pointing them out so there were no spelling errors either.
“Well, we got ourselves a little Shelby genius here!” he kissed her cheek, and she flinched away from his moustache, giggling all the way.
“It tickles!” she shrieked as he continued to rub his cheeks against her soft ones.
“Alright, love. Good job on your homework.”
“Can I go to bed not, Artie? I’m feeling kinda tired?” the littlest Shelby yawned to prove her point, already almost dozing off.
“Tired, eh? What have you been doing to be so tired?” Arthur asked it as a joke, but Y/N avoided his eyes as she thought he was being serious.
“I’ve been staying up late making the handkerchief, and waking up early to sell it so I can do errands for Alfie after school and still do my chores when I get home.”
Arthur’s heart broke hearing how much his youngest sister has been working, and he immediately gave her a hug. “You don’t need to do that anymore, love. Tommy’s got a plan- kid like you don’t need to be working so hard, eh?”
She nodded, almost already dozing off in her brother’s embrace.
“Go get ready for bed, and I’ll come back to tuck you in.”
“Okay!” She left for the bathroom, and Arthur went back to the kitchen where his family had stayed to grab her a glass of water for the night.
He gave a deep sigh, rubbing his forehead and closing his eyes tightly.
“Is Y/N okay?” John asked, his oldest brother’s state putting him on alert.
“Girl’s been working herself to the bone for the last month- staying up late, not eating, and still trying to run everyone’s errands. She’s fucking exhausted and it’s not even 8pm yet where before she would be begging us to play with her until midnight.” Arthur shook his head, filling up the water in the cup and leaving again.
“You tucking her in?” Tommy asked.
“Yea. She asked if she could sleep early- nearly fell asleep on me.”
Tommy nodded, following his older brother to her room. Y/N was brushing her hair, lighting up when she saw her brothers again. Arthur placed the glass of water beside her bed, and came up to her to take the brush from her hand. He finished brushing her hair for her, reminding the siblings of when she was younger and sat on his lap while he tried figuring out how to braid her hair.
“There you go, love. Prettiest girl in all of Small Heath.”
She giggled, but shook her head. “No, Artie- That’s Ada!”
“You both are the prettiest girls in Small Heath, and dare I say the whole world!”
Y/N giggled again, giving her brother a big hug before settling in bed where Tommy was standing by. He smiled as she got under the covers, and he sat down on the edge of her bed, pulling the covers right under her chin. He placed a hand on her small face, rubbing at her cheek with his thumb. He noted how soft and smooth it was, reminding him just how young she was. He leaned down to place a kiss on her forehead.
“I love you, Y/N- so much,” he whispered seeing her eyes droop.
“I love you too, Tommy,” she mumbled before succumbing to her tiredness.
The next day, Y/N and her brothers made their way to the ice cream shop. Suddenly, she stopped and gasped. “We should invite Alfie!”
The brothers couldn’t stop their sister in time before she ran off to his house, and they were quick to follower her. She knocked on his door, rocking on her feet in excitement. When the door opened, she was surprised to find someone else at the door. She hadn’t noticed but her brothers surely did that his hand was underneath his coat, most likely holding on to a gun.
“Excuse me, is Mr. Solomons home?” she asked before being pulled back by Finn behind her other brothers who had stood in front of her.
“Ah if it isn’t the Shelby clan,” the man muttered.
“Who’s there?” Alfie asked, approaching the door.
“Alfie!” Y/N greeted, shaking off Finn’s hand around her. “D’you wanna come with us to the ice cream shop?”
“Well I can’t refuse a little lady as yourself.” He grabbed his hat, and gave instructions to the man who opened the door. “Be a dear and finish up here, why don’t you.”
The Camden mobster followed the family to the ice cream shop, everyone in the shop immediately ceasing their chatter. Y/N paid no attention to the fear in everyone’s eyes as she ran up to the selection of ice cream they had.
“Mister, I want ice cream for all of us, please!” she ordered. “I can pay for everyone!” She held up her little horse purse that Tommy got her so long ago.
“Oh, there’s no need for that,” Alfie said, putting a hand on her shoulder.
“No, no! I want to treat you guys to ice cream.” As she went back to picking a flavour, the 4 mobster (and Finn) stared the poor owner down, not having to say a single word to get their point across.
“Don’t worry about paying Miss Shelby. Your ice creams are on the house!” he said trying to sound jovial, but tripping over his words.
Y/N didn’t notice his stutter, but beamed in happiness. “Really?”
“Yes- you never have to pay for ice cream here!”
“Wow! That’s very nice of you, mister!”
Y/N made sure everyone got their ice cream first, having a habit of putting everyone first. When it was time for her ice cream, the man made the mistake of making eye contact with Alfie. His shaking hands didn’t wait for Y/N to grab the ice cream, and slipped form her tiny hands and on the floor.
“Oh no- oh God,” the man immediately muttered. You could hear a pin drop at how quiet it was in the shop. People tensed, waiting for a bloodbath to occur.
Y/n gasped in surprise. “Oh no! Spilled ice cream. I’m sorry mister- I can help clean up!” She narrated the event only like a child could.
“Oh- uh- well- Don’t worry about the mess,” the man sputtered. “It was my fault. I can give you another ice cream.”
“It’s okay mister. You already gave us all ice cream,” Y/N said, trying to hide her disappointment. Her bottom lip jutted out slightly, and her shoulders were slouched. “Thank you though.”
The man could feel the mobsters tearing him up with their eyes. Finally it was Tommy who spoke up. “Here, love. You can have my ice cream. I know it’s your favourite flavour.” Seeing as Y/N wanted to be just like Tommy in every way, it didn’t surprise anyone that they shared the same love for a certain flavoured ice cream.
“But it’s yours, Tommy.”
“I wasn’t hungry anyways.” He placed it in her hand, making sure she had wrapped her hand around it before letting go. “Let’s go home now.”
“Okay, Tommy! Thank you.”
No one dared breath until the gang was out of the shop. However it was made clear in those short moments of two things. One, little Y/N Shelby was one of the most polite and kind kid of her age group. And two, she was also one of the most protected kid in all of England. The hold she has on the two of the most feared gang in England made her a force to be reckoned with.
Summary: The Shelby brothers are ready to set the world on fire to ensure that their youngest sister would be safe.
Warnings: Nothing but fluff here! Maybe a case of creepy dude, but the Shelby brothers shut that down reals quick.
Word Count: 1.6k
Author’s Note: I have another Shelby!Reader fic in my drafts, but that might take longer to post. I'm still debating to have multiple parts or whether I just want to post one long fic.
The Shelby brothers made their way to the market with their youngest sister in tow. It was supposed to be a more pleasant visit, hence why the brothers thought nothing to let the 7 year-old tag along with them. The little Shelby held on to Tommy’s hand, tugging at it when she saw the rows of shiny red apples that were being sold in the vendor behind the ones that her brothers were talking to.
“Tommy, I want an apple.” She tugged on his hand, pointing to the vendor. He glanced at the distance, nodding his head.
“Stay where I can see you.”
“Okay!” she nodded excitedly, running off. She stared in awe at the amount of apples, and furrowed her eyebrows in concentration to pick the best apple. She wanted to get extra apples for her family so she started picking the best ones and collecting them in her arms.
“And what the fuck do you think you’re doing?” the seller growled.
“I wanna buy 5 apples, mister!” she responded. “And Auntie Polly said that’s a bad word.”
“And where’s your money, little girl?”
“I-In my pocket.” She tried reaching for her pockets when the man grabbed her arm and slammed it on the small counter, making her drop all the apples she was holding in her small arms. She was standing on her toes, the counter being far taller than her, and the edge digging into her frail arm. “Wh-What are you doing?”
“I’ve known little thieves like you to be a liar as well.”
“I’m not a thief!” She took out her little bag of coins. “S-See? I have the money!”
He took the bag, grinning at the contents before pocketing it. “Girl’s got money, eh? You probably stole them from some poor lad and I hate thieves more than anything.” He slowly pulled out a butcher knife, ignoring her whimpers.
“N-No- please! I wasn’t gonna steal anything- I s-swear!”
“Yea you won’t be stealing anymore with one hand-”
“TOMMY! Tommy- Help!” The girl could only scream for her big brother, squirming away from his grip.
The Shelby brothers whipped their head at the source of the screams, their eyes widening at the sight of their baby sister being held like a criminal with a man about to bring down a knife to her pure, untouched skin. They all ran, and if it wasn’t for their sister’s close proximity to the man, they would’ve already shot him dead.
“What the fuck do you think you’re doing?” Tommy asked, his voice eerily calm.
“M-Mr. Shelby- I- I didn’t know she was-” The man held up his arms, dropping his knife and trying to not aggravate the pissed-off man in front of him.
“T-Tommy,” the little Shelby cried, running up to her big brother. Arthur and John had already made their way inside the vendor, grabbing the man to make sure he wouldn’t do anything else. Tommy picked her up, eyes narrowing at the man as he felt her shake in his arms.
“Tell me what happened, love.” He pulled his head back as she instinctively tried to wrap her arms around them and burrows her head in the crook of his neck. He grabbed her right arm, scanning the rest of her body for injuries as she talked and noting the scratches she got from trying to pry her arm away from the man’s grip.
“I-I wanted to buy a few apples for us, b-but the man said I was trying to steal. I gave him my horsey purse but he wouldn’t believe me!” Arthur patted the man down in search for the little bag and threw it to Tommy’s ready hand.
“Right, then.” He picked up a nice apple, handing it to her, and walking away. He adjusted his grip on her so that he was carrying her more like a baby as he knew the second they turned away, Arthur and John would make quick work of that man.
“I-I was so-so scared, Tommy,” she sobbed. Her little hands, wiping away the tears that couldn’t seem to stop falling.
“It’s okay, love. I won’t let anything happen to you, okay?”
“He wanted to cut my hand off!” she exclaimed, sobbing even more.
Tommy was seething in anger, wanting nothing more than to kill the man who would expose his baby sister to the dangerous world that he worked so hard to protect her from. Alas, he knew she needed her older brother and not the ruthless leader of the Peaky Blinder. “You know we would never let that happen, love. They would have to go through all of us before even touching a hair on your head.”
They made their way to their home, Tommy giving the apple to one of the maids with instructions to clean it up and slice them for Y/N, and to get Polly. He took her to the kitchen, putting her on the table. He gently took her arm, assessing the damage .
“Hurts,” she mumbled, her sobs quieting down to a whimper.
“Polly’ll take care of it.” He rubbed her back comfortingly, leaning down to give her forehead a kiss.
“What’s going on here?” Polly asked, gasping at the sight of Y/N’s arm and her teary eyes. “Oh my poor girl. What happened to you?”
“A mean man tried to cut my hand off, Aunt Polly! I was so scared!” she wailed, lifting her arms and wanting to be comforted.
The older woman and Tommy shared a look one that said it was being taken care of at the moment. Tommy took her in his arms, sitting down on the table as Polly took the other seat with an emergency kit with her. The little Shelby tried being strong while her Aunt cleaned up the wound, making sure there wasn’t any splinters before wrapping it up.
“There you go, darling. All cleaned up and better. There’s nothing we can do about bruises but they will go away eventually.”
“Okay” she said quietly. “Thank you, Aunt Polly.” She fell back against Tommy’s chest, the adrenaline was fading and she could barely keep her eyes open. “Thank you, Tommy… for saving me.”
“You never have to thank me for that.” Tommy spoke quietly to comfort her. “I know you’re tired, love, but you gotta eat something.” It was past the time Y/N should be eating breakfast as they were supposed to buy fresh fruits for her breakfast in the morning. He motioned for one of the kitchen staff to place the plate in front of them.
“Okay.”
Tommy pulled the plate closer to her so she could easily reach for the apples from his lap. He rested his chin lightly on her head, placing small kisses here and there to comfort her. He heard the front door open and waited for the inevitable loud entrance his brothers were going to make.
“He’s taken care of,” Arthur said in his signature gravelly voice. “He’s never gonna bother her again.”
“How are you, love?” John asked, looking at the bandage on her arm.
She shrugged her shoulders, eating another slice of apple. It didn’t take her long to finish the apple, her hunger beating out her tiredness. She cuddled closer to Tommy’s chest, the adrenaline fading and she was left with the crash. “Nap?” She looked over at her brothers and aunt for permission.
“Go sleep, darling,” Tommy nodded, kissing her head once more and positioning her more comfortably on his lap.
In a few seconds she was out, and the rest of the family was left to process the events.
“Fuck,” John muttered. “I was gonna skin the man alive.”
“No more,” Tommy said decisively. “She’s never going anywhere without us anymore.”
“Agreed.” Arthur nodded his head.
“Now c’mon, boys. Your world is no place for a little child,” Polly chided.
“A child,” Tommy repeated as almost a growl. “There are too many goddamn fuckers who would have no problem hurting a child, Pol. We have to send out a message. Anyone who dares to even breathe in her direction wrong will have to deal with the Peaky fucking Blinders.” The girl in his lap shifted, and he quickly softened his voice, rocking her a bit. “It’s okay, love.”
If they didn’t know Tommy any better, it would’ve been a comical sight to see him change tune so quickly. Alas, the gang leader decided the conversation was over and carried his sister to his office. The rest of the family dispersing to their own work. The second oldest Shelby had always found comfort in having Y/N near him when he worked. She didn’t mind the occasional yelling and swearing when he was working, and instead focused on whatever was entertaining her at the moment. She was a quiet child, not as rambunctious as her older brothers Finn and John. Most of the time, she would draw or colour pictures, but as she is getting older, Polly had given her a few book to get started on her studies. He placed her on the couch, putting his jacket as a blanket on her tiny body, but before he could get very far she started whimpering and thrashing her arms around. Tommy’s heart broke witnessing his baby sister’s first nightmare, and picked her up again. He decided to keep her in his arms while he worked, ignoring the fact that he would only be able to use one hand as the other would ensure Y/N remained on his lap. He was used to having her on his lap as he worked or in family meetings when he knew she wouldn’t be exposed to their dirty world. A smile crept up on his face as he remember the days she would play with the buttons of his jacket or his pocket watch while he ran the meeting, her presence alone able to settle any tension in the room.
“Nothing will hurt you, I swear it.” Tommy was going to build an empire for his sister, and there was nothing that was going to stand in the way.
Hello friends! It's been so long. I'm wondering if anyone would be interested in being tagged in a Peaky Blinder fic that's centred around a smol Shelby!Reader bean. I'm just getting back to writing and writing little blurbs here and there. I'm not sticking to the canon timeline or anything specific- just writing whatever feels right. Here's a sneak peek, and comment/send me an ask if you wanna be tagged :)
The Shelby brothers made their way to the market with their youngest sister in tow. It was supposed to be a more pleasant visit, hence why the brothers thought nothing to let the 7 year-old tag along with them. The little Shelby held on to Tommy’s hand, tugging at it when she saw the rows of shiny red apples that were being sold in the vendor right behind the ones that her brothers were talking to.
“Tommy, I want an apple.” She tugged on his hand, pointing to the vendor. He glanced at the distance, nodding his head.
“Stay where I can see you.”
“Okay!” she nodded excitedly, running off. She stared in awe at the amount of apples, and furrowed her eyebrows in concentration to pick the best apple. She wanted to get extra apples for her family so she started picking the best ones and collecting them in her arms.
“And what the fuck do you think you’re doing?” the seller growled.
“I wanna buy 5 apples, mister!” she responded. “And Auntie Polly said that’s a bad word.”
Summary: The reader has been breaking into homes in a nice neighborhood when one night, one of the owners catches her. He makes her a deal though in order to not call the police which results in her in need of a new foster home and him making her another offer…
Pairing: Jensen x foster daughter!reader
Square: Free Space
Word Count: 10,400ish
Warnings: language, angst, kidnapping
A/N: Also written for @supernatural-jackles Tell Me A Story Bingo. Enjoy!…
Omg Michelle this was just another masterpiece. I always loved your foster (or in general) daughter!reader fics and this was just another great piece to add to that collection. Everything about this was just so heartwarming. My favourite part was definitely near the end when Jensen berated her for putting herself in danger and she thought he was mad that she kicked him. It just reflected their personality, and my heart broke for the reader. I am so glad that they get a happy ending, and I wish I could read more about this family- it's quickly become one my favourite stories of yours. There was just so much I love about it, but I think I just love a good redemption arc. Thank you for sharing your talents with us once again <3
Hello, I just came here from your previous channel and I need to know. How would dean react when he found out it was Sam all these years who actually shot him. How would everyone else react. I’m so curious!
Hey! I'm so sorry it's been like months since you sent this! I hope you're still around to read this. Hmm... I had to read the fic again to kinda recall what the heck I was thinking when I wrote it. All I can say is that I remember if I continued the story it was gonna go two ways, she dies and Dean finds out, or Dean never finds out. I think if he were to find out and she was alive, it would take a lot to repair that relationship with Bobby playing mediator. I think Sam would leave for a few months (willingly and with Bobby's suggestion) for some soul searching and maybe come back to do a heart-to-heart. During that time I think Dean would face a lot of grief- like going through the 5 stages of grief for the reality he's ever known. I think he would talk to his dead parents a lot and sit in silence with Bobby. As for Y/N? I think something would happen (hence the death idea) for her to have to go to therapy bc I don't think she would go willingly and I don't think the boys would know to suggest it either. And Bobby? Well it's Bobby. I think he would've had an inkling that it wasn't Y/N. Like what reason did she have? I would've made her more quieter and reserved than Sam. Whereas Sam and Dead would be known for their pranks and antics.
I hope this appeased your curiosity! Thank you for being so interested in my fics :)
Hi Josephine, I loved your story Lovely and was wondering if you could write an alternate version where she didn't lose the baby. Kind regards.
Hello!! I actually have been thinking of posting my "deleted scenes" aka my draft where I have pieces of the story bc I had like 3 different versions of Chris and Lisa's conversation. None of them involved her keeping the baby though- the other option was a false positive. Tbh I wanted to stray from the cliche and have her not have a baby bc I think the story wouldn't have ended the way it did (parenting complicates relationships!!). So I know this isn't the answer you wanted, but if this is something people want, I'd be more than willing to share my deleted scenes!