All Things Peaky

It’s just myself talking to myself about myself

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition - Masterlist

Tommy Shelby x O/C (Danielle Virtue)

25 year old Danielle Virtue has just moved to Birmingham. A wartime nurse, Danielle has just returned to England from France in the aftermath of World War One. Hoping for a fresh start in a new city, Danielle struggles to make ends meet and provide money for her mother and younger siblings. That is until Thomas Shelby, a mysterious and ambitious man, makes Danielle an offer - one that will take care of all her problems. In return, Danielle must be willing to enter a private arrangement with the Birmingham Gangster: companionship and intimacy, in exchange for security and money. Will Danielle accept Tommy's deal? And what are Tommy's true motivations for pursuing Danielle? Is it merely lust and loneliness, or does the notorious gangster have feelings for Danielle that extend beyond the signed contract?

Chapter 1 - Birmingham

Chapter 2 - Growing Pains

Chapter 3 - The Garrison,

Chapter 4 - Proposition 

Chapter 5 - Dance With The Devil 

Chapter 6 - Friday 

Chapter 7 - Inspector Campbell 

Chapter 8 - Everything is Extra 

Chapter 9 - Debt Repaid 

Chapter 10 - The Pictures 

Chapter 11 - Mistress

Chapter 12 - New Beginnings

Chapter 13 - Kimber

Chapter 14 - Cheltenham

Chapter 15 - Coins On The Table

Chapter 16 - Gift      

Chapter 17 - Wedding

Chapter 18 - Silence 

Chapter 19 - Midnight 

Chapter 20 - Burn 

Chapter 21 - Family Meeting 

Chapter 22 - Worcester 

Chapter 23 - Manchester 

Chapter 24 - Endeavour 

Chapter 25 - Till The Danger Passes

Chapter 26 - London 

Chapter 27 - Polly 

Chapter 28 - Sabini 

Chapter 29 - Aftermath 

Chapter 30 - Camden Town 

Chapter 31 - Secrets 

Chapter 32 - On Solid Ground 

[lestatgetbehindme]

PEAKY BLINDERS 5.06 | 4.06

[peakyoak]

One of my favourite things about Season 6 is the slow reveal that Alfie is a figment of Tommy’s imagination. There once was a time when Alfie seemed to be the least trustworthy person in London, and now Tommy trusts and relies on him so heavily that he created a version of him in his head that he could control. The relationship between his need to talk to someone and the guilt and dare I say regret he has for killing Alfie is so apparent. I especially enjoyed that we the viewer realized this before Tommy did, furthering his tragic hero character arc.

[thesoldiersminute]

Peaky Blinders Season 4 | Episode 5

[peakyoak]

Hey girl, I just want to check up on you and see how you’re doing!

Hi! Thank you for checking in with me. Things are going great, but also unreal busy. Starting your career is not an easy gig 😅. I have plans to write when I have time off over the holidays and stock up some content to release. See you all soon!

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 42 - More Than Anything

Later That Night

Danielle still couldn’t believe how much the snug had changed. Gold plated the walls and ceilings, red curtains were hung by the windows. Her mind wandered to the situation with Campbell, Sabini, then to the baby. Is this too much, for us, she thought, before looking at Thomas, for him? His answer of course would be no. But what was hers? Now that they were engaged? Now that she was pregnant? 

Danielle felt his arm that was around her squeeze her shoulder, snapping her out of thought. She looked up at his face and saw that he was smiling, his blue eyes made so much more vibrant by his smile. 

“Here he is Tom,” Arthur cracked as the door to the snug opened. The boys stood from the table while Danielle leaned her back against the bench. 

Micheal and Polly walked in and for a second Danielle and Polly made eye contact before the boys, and Danielle, started cheering and congratulating the boy, “Happy Birthday, Micheal,” Tommy said as he shook the boy's hand.

 “18 years old today. I’d say you’re a man now,” Arthur said as he brought his cigarette up to his lips, “Get him a drink, John boy.”

John grabbed a glass and scooped it full of ale, “There you go lad.”

“And after that,” Arthur said as he took a swig of his own drink, “We’ll go find you a lady of the night.”

Polly’s attention moved from Micheal towards the men, “Arthur!” she clamoured. 

“Micheal,” Tommy took a puff from his cigarette before turning to look at Danielle.

She stood and grabbed a neatly wrapped box off the table, “We got you this, Micheal,” Danielle looked at the boy and Polly as she held the package out to him, “So that you’re never late for work.”

Micheal looked at the pocket watch. It was elegant, and much like the pub, had gold coating its surfaces. He then looked up at Danielle, before shifting his gaze to Tommy who nodded in agreement with what Danielle had said.

“Welcome to the business, Micheal” John said from across the snug.

“Thank you,” Micheal said before hugging his mum. 

The group toasted to Micheal, and soon the boy left the snug to join James and Isaiah. Tommy settled back down on the bench, this time putting his arm around Danielle and immediately holding her close. She smiled and relaxed into the warmth of his body. 

Sometime later, Danielle got up to go to the washroom. This was just one of the many new occurrences that had become part of her routine over the last couple months. As she walked away Danielle could feel his eyes watching her go. 

“So,” Arthur said as he slammed his drink down on the table, “If this, May Carleton is off the table for you, Tom, does that mean she’s on the table for everyone else?”

“No Arthur, she is not on the table for anyone,” Tommy leaned back in his chair and struck a match to light his new cigarette, “She is a business partner.”

“Oh is that it then?” John laughed, “A business partner.”

“Yes John, she is. And the last time I checked, we didn’t mix love with business, did we, John?”

“Me and Arthur don’t, sure. But you, Tom, your bloody fiancé is running half our business,” the boys laughed as they joked. 

Danielle rounded the corner and stood in the entrance of the Garrison snug. Upon hearing John’s comment she leaned against the door frame hoping her presence would go unnoticed. She wanted to see where this conversation was going.

Only then, Polly stepped in, “Tom wouldn’t dream of betraying Danny.” 

“The girl’s got his balls,” John joked before Danielle cleared her throat drawing attention towards her.

Even before she did so, Tommy’s eyes were locked on her, “Tom knows,” Danielle held out her hand and looked at the ring on her finger as she spoke, “That I can remove this here ring, just as easily as Tommy can make a mistake with this woman, or any woman.” She looked at John and turned her hand over so the ring faced the room, “And, should Tommy decide to make that decision, I can promise you that I would not hesitate to make my decision like your brother would.”

That Night 

A couple of hours later, when they were home. Danielle was getting ready for bed. As she changed she couldn’t help but look at her body in the mirror. She had the smallest curvature to her stomach now. Hardly noticeable to anyone else, but noticeable to her.

She heard the bedroom door open and nearly jumped as she went to grab her night slip, “Don’t.” Tommy said as he entered the room, holding a bottle of rum and a glass. He wasn’t wearing his suit jacket anymore. He must’ve taken it off downstairs. 

Danielle turned to look at him, her night slip bunched up in her hands. She watched him set the bottle and glass down on her dressing vanity.

He stood in front of her and took the night slip out of her hands and tossed it to the side. He then turned her body around to face the mirror and put his hands over her stomach. Danielle watched his hands move over her body. 

“I love you, eh.” her eyes snapped up to meet his in the mirror, “More than anything. More than our business. More than life.”

Danielle turned in his arms to face him and kissed him in response, “You know Mr. Shelby, you’ve already knocked me up, no need to flirt with me now.”

He drew away and smiled at her as he took off his shirt, “Oh, I will always flirt with you.” He kissed her harder and pulled her closer to his body as he slowly walked her towards the bed, “And aye, now that you are pregnant I might not be able to knock you up anymore.” Danielle laughed as he lowered her onto the bed, “But it won’t be from a lack of trying.”

The Next Morning

When Danielle woke up Tommy was awake beside her, his hand brushing softly over her bare stomach. She wondered what was going on in his head, what he was thinking about as he laid beside her. Both of their bodies were still bare from the night before.

“Good morning,” he said as he kissed her cheek and got up from the bed. He put on his underwear before he walked over to her vanity and picked up the bottle of rum, “We have a meeting this morning. About the partnership with Alfie.”

“Why is it, that rum. The one thing I cannot have, is the only thing that doesn’t make me nauseous?” Danielle complained as she pulled the covers over her body.

He leaned over the bed and kissed her again, “Get dressed. I’ll make you some of that tea Polly brought over. You can drink it while you get ready.”

When Danielle came down the stairs, Tommy grabbed her coat from its hook and held it up for her to put on. Before they stepped out onto the street, Tommy grabbed another bottle of distilled rum. He closed the door and as they walked down the street he didn’t turn his gaze to her, but instead merely spoke, “You are the one who solidified our arrangement with Solomons. You should lead the meeting.”

Danielle didn’t respond but she agreed. She took a step closer to Tommy. Seeing her do so he put his hand on her lower back as they continued to walk down the block to Polly’s.

Sorry that this part took a while. Thank you to everyone who has sent messages over the last couple weeks. I have been incredibly busy!

[peakyoak]

Hey girlie! I hope you are doing good!!

Hey, I’m okay! I pulled a double shift this weekend to make up for when I was sick… planning on having a new part up Saturday! Sorry all for the delay!

[thesoldiersminute]

Peaky Blinders Season 4 | Episode 1

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 41 - May Carleton

The Next Day

Danielle sauntered through the bullpen of desks and people laying bets as she walked towards her office. She hated arriving late to work; when the doors were already open and the swarm of Birmingham people who eagerly awaited spending their earnings on race horses had already flooded her business. There was no moment of peace, no second for her to catch her breath and get her bearings on the day before it started. 

She put her clutch down on the table and took off her hat, “Busy day already, Esme?” 

“Aye. You know it's okay for you to take a break for a while, Danielle. We can handle things here while you’re growing that baby inside of you,” As she spoke Esme didn’t take her focus off her work. 

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Danielle said in a half serious, but flippant tone. She smiled at Esme and then began making her way to her office. She closed the door and sat in her chair. 

Less than a minute later Lizzie opened the door, “There’s a man here for a position. Said they're here about a position as an accounts clerk,” Lizzie remained in the doorway of Danielle’s office as she spoke.

“Very well, Lizzie,” Danielle reclined in her chair and let her hands cover her face. She felt tired, and she was unsure if it was the baby or the fact that she couldn’t stop thinking about her and Tommy’s meeting with Campbell. And the Irish. “Send them in.” 

After a few seconds Micheal walked into her office. Danielle sat straighter in her chair, realising what was happening, “Micheal, the vacancy has been filled.” Danielle stood and turned to walk around the desk to open the door and escort Micheal out.

“Not according to this morning’s paper,” he tossed the paper on her desk and sat in one of the chairs across from hers.

Danielle stopped walking and turned to face him.

“At school I was the top of the class in mathematics. And I did a night course in accountancy at Worcester college.”

Regardless of the fact that he may be qualified for the job, there was no way that Polly would allow such a thing. He sat in the chair and she couldn’t help but think how small he looked, how innocent. He reminded her of James. Young and unsullied with no war to have fought in. She sat back down in her chair.

“Mum says you’ve had six different accountants in the last six months, and that you’re training Jamie but you still need someone. When respectable men see what goes on here they leave, but I already know what goes on here.” 

“Hmm,” Danielle said, ”I wonder what your cousin is going to think about this.”

“I know you want to be 80% legal in three years, James told me. Let me help you and Tommy.”

“Does your mum know you’re here, Micheal?”

Danielle waited for the boy to respond but he merely fiddled his thumbs in his hands. Danielle stood up, grabbed the phone from the corner of her desk and set it down in front of the boy, “Call her, tell her why you’re here. Then you can talk to him yourself.”

Danielle walked out of her office and up the stairs to Tommy’s. She pushed through the double set of doors and felt the haze of smoke from inside fill her lungs. 

“Missed you this morning,” Danielle said as she walked into the room and sat in one of the chairs across from Tommy’s.

He looked up from the paper he was reading and raised an eyebrow, “That’s what happens when you sleep past seven.” 

Danielle smiled and he got up from his chair and walked over to her, putting his hands on the edge of the chair and leaning over her, “I wouldn’t be so tired if it weren’t for the consequences of your actions, Mr. Shelby.”

“Hmm,” he said before leaning down to kiss her, “It's funny you say that you know because I seem to recall that it was you, Miss Virtue, who told me to come to bed on the night in question.”

Danielle playfully hit his chest before putting her hand on his cheek and kissing him again. When she pulled away her focus shifted back to business, “Tommy, Micheal is here. He wants the accountancy position. He’s on the phone with Polly now. I think you should talk to her, tell her you’ll keep him away from the old business and let him take off with the new. Like we’ve done with James.”

“Like we’re trying to do with James,” Tommy corrected and Danielle’s eyes focused more seriously on his as she tried to read his expression, “I’ll talk to Pol.”

The Next Morning

As she walked across Watery Lane, Danielle fumbled with her clutch as she tried to open the flap to retrieve her key to the Shelby Home. She had practically flown out of the house and onto the street, wanting to get to the gambing den before Esme opened up. Typically Danielle had no problem doing so, but on this particular morning, like every other morning of late, her promptness had been thwarted by an overwhelming sense of nausea. 

She had been in such a hurry, in fact, that Danielle had forgotten to greet Dave and Steven and it wasn’t until she got across the street and was attempting to jam the key into the door that she realized that they were there, “Is everything okay, Miss Virtue?”

“Yes, it is,” Danielle said with a sharp exhale as she finally got the door to unlock. “I’m sorry,” she said as she paused for a moment and took a breath, “I feel as though my mind has been a bit preoccupied lately and I haven’t been as kind as I should be.”

Dave adjusted his grey peaky cap and nodded at her, “No harm has been done. You best go on inside now.”

“Don’t let the likes of us hold you back,” Steven said as he pushed the door back so she could step though. 

Danielle smiled softly back at the burly men. Perhaps they weren’t the worst entourage in the world. 

“Esme,” Danielle said loudly as she walked around the corner, “I’ve been doing some thinking and I think we shou-”

Danielle stopped in her tracks upon seeing the woman who was with Esme. She wore a long white fur coat with spots and a round purple hat, “She said she has an appointment with Thomas,” Esme added in a tone that was rather sharp. 

Danielle paused for a second before responding. She noticed the red lipstick that the woman was wearing and how her gold jewellery accented her shoes. Pretty posh for a horse trainer. “Yes,” Danielle said as she approached the woman and outstretched her hand, “You must be May Carleton.”

Danielle shook the woman’s hand, “Yes I am, I have an appointment with Tommy about his horse. Did he give the wrong address?”

“No he gave you the right one,” Danielle said as she took a step back in Esme’s direction, “Where he is, however, is a different matter entirely.”

“I’m sorry, you didn’t say what your name is,” May said as she looked around the gambling den. 

Suddenly Danielle began to feel defensive, “Danielle Virtue.” As she said it she knew that on her face was an all too unconvincing smile. 

After a moment of silence Esme interjected, “She runs the place. Her and Tommy do.”

“I see,” May said with the slightest sigh, “A gambling den. I’ve always wanted to see one since I’m always reading about them in the papers. Quite the scandal in the Telegraph lately.”

“I’m sure you are,” Danielle said as she sat at the table in the middle of the room and crossed her legs. She would love a cigarette right about now. 

Sensing the tension, May finally spoke, “I’m sorry to have disturbed you. I feel a bit of an idiot because I’m early and he’s late and I have no idea how to behave.” She took a few steps back and turned slightly towards the window, “I can wait in the car if you’d like.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Danielle interjected. 

“What are you to him?” Esme said it innocently, but Danielle wished for the conversation to be over and for her to drop the topic.

“To him?” May said as Danielle put her arm on the top of the table, “I’m training his racehorse.”

“You know horses?” Esme asked as she carried a bookkeeping log back to her station.

“I was born riding,” May explained.

“I was born riding, too,” Esme replied. 

Danielle felt a hinge of uncertainty catch in her throat. She didn’t have the connection to horses that Tommy had. She knew that she could never fully comprehend the bond that he had with them. She didn’t like the thought of May understanding Tommy in ways she couldn’t. She took a deep breath and exhaled. As her pregnancy progressed Danielle began to feel less and less like herself. It wasn’t just her body that felt foreign to her, but her mind as well. Surely she would not usually feel so vulnerable in this situation - it was ridiculous that she felt this way at all.

“Well,” Danielle said as she stood from the table in an attempt to shake off her unease.

Before she could continue she heard the front door slam and John burst into the house and through to the den, “There’s a fucking great Riley outside and no one’s watching it!”

When he came into the room and saw what was happening he stopped in his tracks, “John, this woman says she’s training Thomas’ horse,” Esme explained.

John stopped in front of Esme and looked at her and then at Danielle. He put his hands on his hips and Danielle couldn’t help but notice the toothpick between his teeth, “He’s gonna pay for that, ya.”

“You don’t know where he is, do you?” Danielle said as she grew even more desperate to get out of the situation. 

Just then Tommy walked through the den towards May, “Sorry I’m late.” As he walked his eyes did not leave Danielle’s. The expression on her face made it clear to him that she was not enjoying this particular arrangement. 

Finally his eyes left Danielle’s and turned to May’s “I’ll show you around.”

“Like hell you will,” John asked, “Danny will cut off your balls, Tom.”

“Tom is a big boy, John,” Danielle said as she walked towards her office, “He can make his own decisions.”

Author's Note - Whew. I battled the writer's block hard on this one.

[peakyoak]

I hope your week is going well! I wanted to check in on you girlie!

Thanks yes it’s going good! I’ve been so sick the last week with a chest infection that seems to not want to go away. I’m hoping to write lots this weekend. have a great week everyone!

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 40 - Here We Are

A Few Days Later

Tommy led the pair as they descended a spirally set of stairs into the basement of the building. It was old, and had a sense of character to it that new builds just couldn’t replicate. Wooden accents gave life to the doorways, the walls, and the railing Danielle held as they walked down the stairs. 

At the bottom Tommy paused for a second to look back at her before they started walking down the hall. It was as if he needed the reassurance that she was still behind him, backing him up. When they turned the corner they saw Campbell waiting for them at the end of the hall and both of their paces slowed as their expressions grew more sullen. 

“You two love birds might think this is a curious spot for me to propose a meeting,” Campbell adjusted his cane and it thumped against the hardwood floor, “but the surprises have only just begun.”

Danielle shot a glance at Tommy when Campbell turned to open the door to an adjacent room. They walked through the room and saw two people sitting at a table, a man and a woman. Danielle didn’t recognize them, but it became clear that these two people were Irish. Danielle glanced at Tommy again to read his expression. A stranger wouldn’t have been able to read his face, but she was no stranger. From his expression she gathered that Tommy knew them. 

“You’re working together,” Tommy’s tone was raspy, “Blowing up the Garrison was your idea.” He turned his head to the side, Danielle could tell he was pissed off, “That’s funny, I thought, you fenians had a policy, eh, of not mixing the personal with the political.”

“That’s enough,” the woman said in an Irish accent. Danielle couldn’t quite describe it, but it was as though she sounded even more Irish than Campbell. Danielle noticed how the man sitting next to her was looking at her somewhat menacingly, as if he was plotting. Danielle knew the only person she could trust in this room was Tommy. 

“I think I’ll decide on what is enough,” Campbell said as Tommy walked over to the table. 

“Who’s in charge here then,” Danielle said as her body came to life after being lost in her own thoughts, “Who’s in charge, is it you?” She walked to the table and pointed at Campbell, “Because it doesn’t bloody seem like it.”

“Let me understand this,” Tommy said as if to prevent Danielle from getting too involved, “You answer to an agent of the Crown?”

“Perhaps we can-”

“Very interesting,” Tommy said, cutting Campbell off.

“Is it you,” Danielle said as she turned to point at the woman, “Because that seems more like it eh, and it sure as hell isn’t you,” she said as she pointed to the man beside her. 

“Well you are really more arrogant than him, ain’t ya,” the woman spoke. 

Danielle regained her composure and stood up straight.

“You do not speak to her like that,” Tommy said as he turned to point at the woman, “You do not.”

“Perhaps we can stick to the agenda,” Campbell pleaded. 

“Whose agenda?” Danielle asked, “Whose words.”

“Just come to order,” Campbell asked.

“I’m here to listen, but not to the fucking infiltry,” Tommy spoke sharply and looked directly at the man at the table. Danielle could tell that Tommy didn’t like him either.

“Can we just conduct ourselves,” Campbell said, but Danielle could tell Tommy was passed that, “No one here wants to breathe the same air as anyone else.”

“Nevertheless-” Campbell started.

This time it was Danielle who cut him off, “Nevertheless, the pro-treaty paddies and the King want the same man dead.” 

“Why,” Tommy spoke.

“Did you ask why in France,” the woman said to Tommy and his eyes met with Danielle’s.

“Yeah,” Tommy said, his eyes still on Danny’s.

“So it's the same answer,” Campbell said as he sat in a chair, “Because.”

“Because if anyone connects us to this it will be assumed that it was a criminal act and not a political one,” Danielle said what Tommy was thinking. 

“No. You need not fear being connected to the killing because I will see to it that no connection to it is ever made. You will have complete immunity after the fact,” Campbell said it as if he actually believed it. Danielle rolled her eyes.

“And none of you can be connected to it or seem involved in any way,” Danielle said as she shifted her weight and clicked her heel against the hardwood signalling to Tommy that it was time to leave. 

“I’m not doing it,” Tommy said, changing his mind, “My answer is no.” Danielle turned to head out the door and this time he followed her. 

Danielle could hear Campbell’s cane against the floor following them out of the room, “Mr. Shelby,” Campbell called while they walked down the hall, “What about your export license, Mr. Shelby?”

Tommy stopped walking down the hall and paused in place, “What about your deal with Mr. Churchill?” Danielle knew that name and that man, she knew him from the trenches in France. What was new to her was that he was now connected to Tommy. He looked at her for a moment before he turned and stormed down the hall towards Campbell.

Danielle followed him and Tommy spoke to Campbell in a hushed tone, “Donal Henry is a spy. He’s working for the irregulars against the pro-treaty paddies. He reports every fucking word back to them.” Hearing this made Danielle realise why Tommy had acted the way he had when seeing him. 

“No, it's not possible. He was vetted by my own department,” Campbell said defensively. 

Now, having enough information to intervene Danielle added, “Do you really think anyone does anything in this city without Tommy knowing?”

“I have men in places you men can’t go,” Tommy pointed his finger to Campbell’s chest, “He meets with the anti-treaty paddies in a backroom, sometimes even twice a week.”

“The Irish rely only on kin, Mr. Campbell. Brothers, cousins, family. Your coppers can’t compete with blood,” Danielle felt more confident now as she held her clutch with both hands.

“You are stepping into a world you don’t understand,” Tommy said before turning away, “bring proof that the spy is dead, and we can continue.”

When they stepped out onto the street Tommy immediately put his hand on Danielle’s back and guided her back towards Watery Lane. She didn’t dare say anything until she knew they were for sure out of ear shot, “The Irish blew up the Pub?”

“Yes,” Tommy said as he placed pressure on one side of her back so she would turn to go down a side street, “You didn’t say anything.”

“Well you seemed to put it all together quite quickly,” Tommy said, avoiding the fact that Danielle had not yet known the full truth until now.

“You could have told me sooner.” 

Tommy let out a deep breath and Danielle could tell he was frustrated, “Yes, but I didn’t so here we are.”

“Danny there’s something else I need to tell you that I haven’t told the boys yet,” Tommy put his hand on her arm to stop her from walking any further. She pulled her arm away from him and looked up and down the street. It was dusk now and the streets were beginning to empty, “Tomorrow night we make our move on the Eden Club.”

Danielle took a step back, “Last time,”

“What happened last time isn’t what will happen this time,” Tommy said in a low voice so no one could overhear. In seconds, Danielle’s mind raced with images of the fancy, golden club filled with people, dancing, laughing, and then she saw pictures of the boys tearing the place apart, and Tommy hurt again by Sabini - or worse. Tommy put both of his hands on Danielle’s arms and that shook her back to reality, “the coppers will be looking the other way. I’ve made sure of it.”

“The coppers aren’t exactly the ones I’m worried about, Tommy.”

“Sabini’s day is done,” Tommy said in a tone that was too confident for Danielle to take seriously. Had he really thought this through?

“And there’s something else you need to know,” Tommy said as he ran his arms up hers, “There’s a woman. Her name is May, she’s training my horse for the Derby. She’s going to be here to gather the horse later this week. I didn’t want you to be surprised.”

“So you didn’t want me to be surprised about her, but it was fine enough for me to be surprised about what happened in that room back there,” Danielle said, trying to keep her voice calm and her tone low. She couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the impossibility of the situation.

“Listen to me. Eh, listen to me.” Tommy gave her shoulders a little shake and she looked up at him, “I should have told you. I was wrong. I didn’t know they were working together, but I should’ve told you about the other stuff.” He had her attention now, “Danny, we’re going to figure it out, we will. We will get through it.” His tone was balanced now, calm, and back to his usual composed cadence, “And I will be here to see that baby enter this world, I promise you I will.”

Danielle breathed a sigh of relief that she had been holding in over the last few days, and even weeks as she navigated her new reality; the pregnancy, Tommy’s business with Campbell, the London takeover, everything had been moving so fast. Before she could take a breath in his lips met hers and she felt the tension that she had been holding onto dissolve into the air on the street around them. This, she thought, made everything so much better.

[thesoldiersminute]

Peaky Blinders Season 2 | Episode 1

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 39 - Devil Waiting Outside Our Door

Danielle was sitting in her office drinking tea when John and Arthur came bursting through the front door of the Shelby house, bantering and laughing. Danielle rose from her chair to greet them when she realized that Arthur was covered in blood. 

She quickened her pace over to the other side of the room, “What happened, who’s hurt?” she asked. 

“A fucking wop that’s who” John hollored back as Danielle lifted Arthur’s arms to examine him to be sure it wasn’t his blood. 

“Where’s Tommy?” Danielle asked, it seems she wasn’t the only one who caused some trouble today. 

“Charlie’s yard,” Arthur replied, “Talking to Uncle Charlie and Johnny Dogs.”

Satisfied that he was not hurt Danielle let go of Arthur’s arm and took a step back, “The boys saw this,” she said as she realized that James and Micheal had also been in harm's way, “They wanted Tommy?”

“Seems so,” John said in a more serious tone. 

Danielle wanted this war with London to be over. She wanted it to be done. But Epsom was still months away and with it Tommy’s plan. 

Later That Night

When Tommy returned to Watery Lane that night he felt exhausted. But, because of his recent fight with Danny, he didn’t want to go home yet either. He walked up to his office to pour himself a drink and think.

Only when he opened the door to his office, someone was sitting in his chair; he had his pistol halfway out of its holster before he realized it was Danielle. She knew he’d come here.

“Christ’s sake, Danny I nearly shot you,” he said as he reholstered his weapon and adjusted his suit jacket. He walked into the room and poured himself a drink before sitting adjacent to her, in front of his own desk. 

“Do you have a cigarette,” Danielle asked as she stood from the chair and walked towards the window in his office.

Tommy raised his eyebrow, thinking about what could have brought this on. Regardless he held a cigarette out in her direction. She accepted it before pushing the window open and sitting on the sill. 

“You went to see him today,” Tommy said with his usual blank expression. His tone was not infuriated, or angry, but controlled and direct.

Danielle shifted her gaze away from the window and back towards him, “I needed to know.” She crossed her hands over the still unlit smoke. 

“And now you know?”

“Now I know,” Danielle breathed. 

“And?” Tommy asked, making eye contact with her now.

“What’s the plan?”

Tommy got up from the chair and walked over to where Danielle was sitting on the window. He pulled out his matchbox, struck one, and motioned for Danielle to light her smoke. She did so, and after he remained standing in front of the window. For a few seconds silence hung in the air like a dense fog, “At Epsom,” Tommy spoke quietly, “On Derby day. He will be there, and so will the king.” Danielle looked up at him and watched him take a cigarette out for himself and light it, “When a shot is fired every copper in the building will flock to protect the King.”

Danielle took a drag from her cigarette, “Only the king won’t be the target,” Danielle said firmly but calmly. She knew about what was in the news lately, how restless the Irish had grown, how desperate they were. It wouldn’t be too far-fetched for your average copper to think that an Irishman would go after the King. 

Tommy looked down and his eyes met hers, “Something like that, eh.” He looked up one more time as he blew his smoke towards the window, “There are only a few minor details to take care of before the day.”

“We will take care of them,” Danielle said as she straightened her back a little more, “And we need to do something about Campbell. And Sabini, for that matter. Before the baby comes.”

The fog of silence returned again, this time it held the room still while the two smoked and thought.

 “I’ll be at nearly 8 months then.” Danielle said as she stood from her seat on the windowsill and slowly began walking towards the door. She realized that Epsom was six months away. The baby would be but a few weeks from arriving. Before she left the room she stopped in the middle of the floor and turned back in his direction, “I need you to be around to meet your baby Tommy.”

He turned around to face her, “I will be, eh?” he said as he walked over to her.

“I’m sorry I went behind your back, Tom,” Danielle said as Tommy put his hands on the side of her face, “But there’s a devil waiting outside our door and we need to do something about it.”

He looked her in the eyes and without saying another word he pulled her towards his chest, “We will.”

After Danielle had left his office he sat back down in his large leather desk chair. He could smell hints of her perfume lingering in the space. It intertwined with the scent of cigarette smoke, and whiskey that had wafted out of his glass and into the air. He leaned back and put his hand to his brow to rub it. After a moment, he reached into his suit jacket pocket and pulled out a business card, flipping it over in his hand:

Carlton Stud

Breeding & Bloodstock

Proprietor - May Fitz-Carlton

The Next Morning

Danielle walked up the dusty walkway of the grave yard with an envelope full of cash tucked in her jacket. It was a cold morning now, and there was no doubt that the seasons had changed and winter had arrived. She felt the breeze lift the hem of her skirt just enough that it sent a chill up her body. Perhaps the only two things that Dave and Steven, otherwise known as the entourage, as she had dubbed it, couldn’t protect her from were herself, and the cold Birmingham air. 

As she turned the corner she could see two women crying next to the gravesite; the grave of the boy who died in prison at the hand of Sabini’s men. The boy who’d died for the Peaky Blinders. Two Peaky boys stood at the head of the grave with shovels. And although Danielle didn’t know their names they nodded when they saw her approach. 

When the two women saw her they both approached her. She wasn’t sure which woman was the boy’s mum, or rather the person who ‘does what mums do’ as the boy had described it to Tommy, but when the ladies approached her she could tell that one of them was physically angry. The other worked to calm-no, hold back, the angry one from Danielle. 

Reluctantly the angry woman took a few steps back and resumed sobbing, while the other lady stepped forward. Danielle handed her the envelope, told her how sorry she was for their loss, and then nodded at the Peaky Boys to start shovelling dirt back on the grave. 

When it was done, Danielle and the entourage turned back down the dirt path towards Small Heath. Only then, as she walked away did Danielle get emotional. Surely she would love her child as much as those ladies loved that boy. She erased all signs of emotion from her face before stepping foot into Peaky territory. 

Even though you couldn’t tell from looking at her, her mind continued to spiral. What would happen if something were to happen to her child? How would she feel? No, Danielle thought, Tommy wouldn’t let that happen. He wouldn’t. He would protect them, provide for them, and be loyal to them. Surely he would - wouldn’t he?

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 38 - Birmingham Police Station

The Next Day

The thing about being engaged to Thomas Shelby is that he doesn’t apologize. At least, not out loud. And as such, when Tommy came to bed the last night, he slipped under the covers, careful not to disturb Danielle, who he thought was already asleep next to him. 

Lucky for Danielle, today was the day that Tommy would be gone with the other boys to the horse auction outside of London. Not only would she have time to be away from him, but she would also have time to make a trip to central Birmingham. She knew there were only two people who knew what Campbell and Tommy were up to, and it seemed Tommy wasn’t going to be the one to let her in the know. 

She waited in bed until Tommy got up and got dressed. While he did so she laid still, pretending as though she was still asleep. She heard him clear his throat. She heard him pick up his gun holster as the metal from the handle knocked against the wooden chair. Lastly, she heard his tie flip around its loop and hit Tommy in the chest. 

Thinking he was gone she went to open her eyes, but before she did she felt her side of the bed get weighed down as Tommy leaned over it. Without saying a word he kissed Danielle on the cheek. She then felt his weight lift off the bed, heard him walk to the bedroom door, and close it quietly, as if he didn’t want to wake her. 

Thirty minutes later Danielle walked through the front door of the Shelby house, “So they’re off then?” Danielle asked Polly who was sitting at the kitchen table staring at the wall. She was zoned out in thought.

“They’re off,” Polly took a drag off her cigarette but didn’t remove her eyes from where she was looking. Danielle paused, she knew she must be worried about Micheal going with the boys. 

“They’ll have each other,” Danielle said, “they’ll stay out of trouble together, Pol.” Danielle reasoned, hoping James would do as she had asked. “Tommy will make sure of it,” she added for good measure. 

“Like hell he will,” Polly said as she started moving again, putting her cigarette in the ashtray on the table, “Don’t think that all of Small Heath couldn’t hear you two arguing last night.” 

Danielle walked through the betting den and Polly followed her, “Pol, I really don’t want to talk about it.”

She threw her hands up in the air and stopped, “You two are the bloody same, you know. That’s why you fight.”

“You know what,” Danielle said as she slammed her purse down on her desk, “I can’t do this today. That man is keeping stuff from me, and I won’t have it. Not while I’m carrying his baby.”

She started marching towards the door and before she left she heard Polly call from behind her, “You’re only mad because what I said was true.”

“Fuck it,” Danielle said as she slammed the door behind her and stepped out onto the street. 

Dave and Steven perked up after hearing her yell, “Everything alright, Miss?” Dave asked. 

“I’m not feeling good,” Danielle said as she fiddled with her gloves, “I’m going to go lay down.”

The trio walked back across the street to her house and when she walked into the house they stayed outside as they usually did. 

Only this time when the door closed Danielle didn’t take off her jacket and go upstairs. This time she kept it on, walked across the house, and out the back door. 

For the first time in weeks, Danielle felt free as she set foot onto the Birmingham street. No protection, no men, no problem. She took a big breath, held it for a second while she stopped and looked up at the sky, and then all at once she exhaled - letting go of all the tension from the last few days. 

When she walked into the police station, no one noticed at first. That was until she walked up to the front counter, “How can I help you, Miss?” the copper behind the desk asked.

“Yes, hello, I’m here to see Major Campbell. He won’t be expecting me, but he will want to talk to me.”

The copper straightened his back and spoke in a more serious tone, “And who, should I say, is here to speak with him?”

“A concerned citizen,” Danielle said, perhaps a little too flippant for her own good, but Danielle wanted answers about what he and Tommy were planning and she wasn’t going to wait any longer. 

“That won’t do,” the man said and for a second Danielle was annoyed by his moustache, “I need a name, or I’ll need to ask you to leave.”

“Miss…” Danielle paused for a second, she knew this would draw attention to her, “Miss Virtue.”

As soon as she spoke the room went quiet. People in the building may not have known what she looked like, but they did know her name. Perhaps, Danielle figured, they were shocked she’d actually show up here. They shouldn’t be though, she thought, since half the coppers in the city are on Tommy’s payroll, and therefore her payroll. 

“I’ll go tell him,” the copper said and the noise picked back up in the room as people got back to work. 

As she waited in the reception area Danielle couldn’t help but notice that almost everyone in the building was trying to inconspicuously glance at her. A bunch of shitty cops, she thought. By now, she was used to fleeting glances, whispers when she passed people on the street, but it felt different. She felt a feeling that she hadn’t felt in a long time. The more she thought about it she realized she hadn’t felt like this since the war. It felt as though she was in enemy territory. 

Danielle was snapped out of her thoughts by a young copper who approached her, “Miss,” the copper, barely a man said, “Major Campbell will see you now.”

Danielle followed the man past a room full of coppers working at desks and into a side room, “Wait here, please,” the boy said as if he was intimidated by her. He closed the door and Danielle was alone.

She looked around the room. It was a small room. All it had was a table and two chairs on opposing sides of the table. An interrogation room, she realized. After a minute or two the door opened and in came Campbell, his metal cane was loud against the tile floor. 

“Miss Virtue,” he said as he closed the door, “what a pleasant surprise.”

“Mr. Campbell,” Danielle said, straightening her back, “when we last spoke you said that you needed reassurance that my fiancé would do what was required when the time comes.”

“Yes,” Campbell said as he put both hands over his cane, “I did.”

“How am I to provide you with such if I do not know what is required of him,” Danielle spoke firmly.

Campbell paused for a second as if he was thinking about how he was going to respond, “Your fiancé has been selected for a confidential mission on behalf of the crown.”

“I understand that. Seeing that he and I are soon to be joined as one in matrimony, I think it only appropriate that I, too, understand what is being required of him, don’t you, Major Campell?”

The man paused for a second and Danielle heard his cane scrape against the tile as he dragged it. He looked around the room as if he was waiting for someone to answer for him.

“You do not have the security clearance for that information,” Campbell finally spoke.

“You want this mission to be a success,” Danielle turned to look him up and down.

“Yes,” Campbell said, “there is no other choice for the crown, or for your fiancé.”

“Then, seeing that I own your operatives’ heart and mind. And more importantly, that I have the ability to use weapons against him that you would not dream of possessing, don’t you think that I too should have access to these plans? If they really are as important as you say?”

Campbell looked around the room again. Danielle sat down in the chair adjacent to him, “I’ll wait here then,” she spoke. 

Campbell left the room for a few minutes and when he returned he was carrying a file. Before he put it on the table he warned her, “Make no mistake, Miss Virtue,” Campbell said as he put it down on the table, “the second you look at the file, you become an accomplice in this plan.”

“I understand that,” Danielle said as she picked up the file and opened it. 

Danielle could feel Campbell examining her face as she read the file. Surely he was looking for some sign of worry, of despair, or dread. Danielle’s expression did not offer him any. She continued to read with a blank, unwavering expression. Tommy was meant to assassinate a man. The man had military background, and full time protection. It would be difficult for her and Tommy to get him alone, away from his men. 

“And where is this… event, supposed to take place?” She asked Campbell who reaked of pipe smoke.

“At his home, while he sleeps,” he adjusted his cane and once more it clicked loudly against the tile floor.

Danielle pretended to examine the file more as she thought. There was no way Tommy would do it in his own home. Shurly, he’d be a mouse waiting to spring a trap. If Campbell had things his way Tommy would be arrested directly after the shot was fired. Tommy would then find himself inside of a room just like this one. And then more than likely the end of a rope.

She squeezed her eyes shut for a moment before she opened them and put the file down, “Thank you Major Campbell, you’ve been quite cooperative.” She stood and walked out the door of the interrogation room and into the main work room. 

“Don’t think this will be our last conversation, Miss Virtue.”

She ignored him as she walked down the hall towards the front entrance. As she did so she could feel eyes watching her every movement. No doubt Tommy would soon know what she had done. Not that it mattered to her, of course, she had already got what she came for.

[seyfrieds]

i promise

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 37 - A Thousand Guineas

Watery Lane

Danielle was getting ready for bed when she heard the front door open and slam shut. A few seconds later Tommy came into the bedroom and took off his suit jacket, leaving him with only his button up shirt, vest, and gun holster. 

“We have a problem, Danny.”

Danielle looked up from where she was sitting at her vanity to make eye contact with him in the mirror, “What kind of problem?”

Tommy put his hands on his hips and took a few steps towards the bed, “A man- well, no, a boy that we hired to get arrested for bookmaking was killed in prison. In Winson Green” 

Tommy sat on the bed and Danielle turned on the stool she was sitting on to face him, “By Sabini?”

“Yes,” Tommy breathed while he rubbed his face with both hands, “He sent a telegram.”

“But if your men are being killed in prison no one will want to go,” Danielle pleaded, realising why this was a problem.

“And the coppers won’t meet their numbers,” Tommy explained. 

Danielle walked over to him and wrapped her arms around him, pulling his face against her stomach, “You’ll figure it out. We’ll have a meeting tomorrow. This business with Sabini needs to end. Before he comes for us. Or Solomons does. Or both of them.”

The Next Day - Family Meeting

Danielle was late arriving for the family meeting, she rushed into the room still pinning her hat on, “Ahh there she is,” Arthur said with outstretched arms, “Taking the day off yesterday and late this morning, we missed you.”

“Yes well,” Danielle said as she dragged a chair to the table everyone was gathered around, “The reason why I’m late is because your fucking brother got me pregnant and now I can’t smell fucking bread without throwing up, Arthur. So there, that's why. Please direct your complaints to Tommy.”

The boys laughed and Danielle watched as Tommy cracked a smile, “You don’t mean it Danny, it's just the hormones. Happened to Esme, too.” John chuckled with a toothpick sticking out of his mouth. 

“This had better be good to interrupt my holiday,” Polly said as she walked into the room.

“Where’s the boy,” John asked.

“In the back with James, I’m taking the boy to the museum after this so make it quick,” Danielle smiled at Polly. She was happy she had taken time to spend with her son, “Tommy get on with it.”

“Last night, one of our men had his throat cut in Winson Green,” Tommy said coldly. He had a cigarette in his hand but he crossed his hands together while he spoke, “I had a telegram explaining it was Sabini who did it.”

“It says here that Thomas Shelby is next,” Arthur said as he ripped up the telegram. 

Danielle made eye contact with Tommy. He neglected to disclose that information last night when they discussed the matter, “Our men won’t work for us if we can’t keep them safe in the Green,” Danielle spoke.

“We need to get the Green sorted out,” Tommy continued, “Scudboat, you and one of the boys go break some windows, start some fights, get yourselves arrested and find who did this.”

“A boy is dead” Danielle said as she looked at the men in the room, “He was just a kid. We can’t let this happen again.”

“We’ll start a fund for his family, Pol.” Tommy commanded.

“Agreed,” Polly said, “Is that all, can I go?”

“As company treasurer, I need your permission to spend a thousand guineas.” Tommy shifted his weight.

This caught Danielle’s attention, she hadn’t heard anything about a thousand guineas, “On what?” Pol asked.

“A horse.”

Danielle looked at Tommy and then at Polly, this was the first she had heard of this, “When was this decided?” Danielle asked. 

“When Polly was busy with Micheal, and you were well-”

“Busy dealing with the side effects of growing your child,” Danielle cut him off. 

“Oh my god,” Polly spoke as she walked around the table to be closer to Tommy, “So in the absence of common sense you boys have had an idea?”

“When we make our move on Sabini’s racing pitches any men we get into the betting enclosure would be lifted by Sabini’s police. A racehorse is a passport to the owner’s enclosure. There won’t be any coppers in the owner’s enclosure.”

“We’ll be in with the toffs, coppers won’t know where to look,” Arthur added. 

“The Epsom Derby, Pol,” John added, but Danielle knew that him saying so wouldn’t get Polly on board, “We’ll be drinking with the bloody King.”

“The Derby? Did he say the Derby?” Polly was stunned as she looked at Danielle to see that she was equally stunned. 

Danielle shifted in her chair, annoyed that Tommy also neglected to tell her this. She glared up at Tommy, “Did you come up with this idea in the pub by any chance?” 

“Pol,” Tommy spoke. Danielle knew he must be frustrated, but his tone remained even, “A racehorse is a good investment. We need to diversify the portfolio, like owning property.”

“When is the sale,” Polly asked.

“Tomorrow.”

Suddenly a different voice spoke from the doorway, “We want to go with them.” Danielle looked to where the voices had come from, only to see Micheal and James.

“Look, we’ve been listening,” James spoke first, “We want to come with them,” he said in Danielle’s direction and she looked at Polly and then at Tommy. 

“You see!” Polly exclaimed, shouting in Tommy’s direction.

“I love horses,” Micheal said innocently, “I could even help.”

“Over my dead body.”

“It’ll be alright mum,” Danielle could see now what Micheal was doing. Wearing Polly down, calling her mum. It seemed the boy wasn’t set on wanting to return to his village anytime soon, “I’ve been to loads of horse auctions with my uncle. They’re very respectable, people bring their butlers.”

“Yeah,” Arthur chimed in as he took a sip of his drink, “And their posh wives.”

“And their mistresses,” John playfully slapped James on the back, “let them come Polly.”

“No,” Polly said, shaking her head, “fucking no.”

“What do you think Danny?” 

“I think,” Danielle stood from her chair. She knew that keeping these two boys out of trouble may be difficult. However, she thought it may be more difficult to keep them out of trouble if they’re denied every opportunity to participate in business. She took a step closer to Tommy so she could look him in the eyes, “I think that if something happens to them, it’ll be you I blame.” 

Danielle walked into her office and closed the door.

Later That Night

When Danielle came into the house Tommy was sitting by the fire in the living room reading the paper. She walked over to him and sat in the chair adjacent and crossed her legs. For a moment, she wondered if she should pick tonight to fight. Against her better judgement, she decided that she’d waited long enough.

“A thousand guineas,” Danielle said as she bounced her crossed leg in the air, “A thousand guineas,” she repeated, “Must be a pretty great horse.” Danielle spread her arms out on the back of the chair, “Or a pretty desperate owner.”

Danielle locked eyes with Tommy. He nodded his head and smirked, “A pretty great horse.”

“What are you doing with a thousand guinea horse?”

“I told you Danny,” He put his glass of whiskey down on the coffee table, “We need to be down in the owner’s enclosure.”

Danielle swatted the paper out of his hand, “Yes that may be true but that’s only part of it, isn’t it?” Danielle asked, pushing him for information, “Why else do you need to be in the owner’s enclosure?”

Tommy didn’t respond and Danielle knew she’d asked the right question. She examined his face. Why would he keep this part of his plan from her? What could this part possibly entail? She searched his face for answers again, but it didn’t reveal any. 

“Is it Campbell?” Danielle asked as she leaned forward to face him, “What does he want? Why does it involve the Derby?”

Tommy rubbed his face with his hand, “Danny, don’t you think, that perhaps there is a reason I haven’t told you about it. It's not to spite you-”

“What is it then, eh?”

“It's to protect you.”

Danielle leaned against the chair, “Tommy for the last time-”

He stood from his chair, “Danny,” he was raising his voice now. He put one hand in his pants pocket and pointed his finger at her with the other, “I’ve asked you to let it go. Now let it go.”

“Tom,” Danielle said as she stood from her chair, “Don’t you think I have a right to know?”

He put both of his hands on his head and took a step away from her before walking quickly over to her again, “No. No, you don’t.”

If he was meaning to intimidate her, it wasn’t working. “You think I won’t figure it out on my own?” Danielle asked, now she too was raising her voice. 

That was exactly what he was worried about, “Danny,” he spoke softly now, “I’ve asked you to leave it alone. Do as I ask.”

He grabbed his jacket and walked out the door. Leaving her standing in the living room with no more answers than she had before.

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition: Chapter 36 - High Value Commodity

Chapter 36 - High Value Commodity

Like knights protecting their queen, Dave and Steven instantly moved around Danielle to put themselves between her and Campbell. Danielle crossed her gloved hands in front of her and took a step forward, “It's okay boys, let him talk. Let's hear what you have to say, Major Campbell.”

He took another step out onto the sidewalk and Danielle watched Dave and Steven look at each other and then at Danielle. When they saw that she did not waver, their stances relaxed, but they remained still, “I see that Thomas Shelby places protection on his high value commodities.”

Danielle stared at him for a second. She wasn’t surprised that he knew about the baby, but it was slightly discomforting nonetheless, “You’d be wise to not speak about such commodities. Heaven forbid you need another cane for the other leg.”

“I only say so because I believe congratulations are in order,” the man said as he tilted his head and his round brimmed hat tilted with him.

“You didn’t just come here to give your congratulations, so why are you here,” Danielle said wanting to cut right to the punch before she felt ill again.

“Miss Virtue I came here for reassurance,” Campbell walked around her and Dave and Steven moved with him, “Reassurance that when the time comes your fiancé will do what is necessary.” He stopped moving and faced Danielle, “Should he want to meet his unborn child.”

Danielle took a step towards Campbell. Dave and Steven both reached for the weapons that were holstered under their jackets and waited to draw, “You dare come here, to Small Heath, and make threats to me and my family. You’d do well to remember what happened the last time you threatened me, Major Campbell.” Danielle spoke slowly to emphasize her point, “Do not for a moment think that whatever business you have with Tommy will be resolved in your favour.” She relaxed her tone slightly, “Now get the fuck off my sidewalk.”

An hour later Danielle was reading on the sofa with a cup of tea. She finally began to feel better after she changed out of her clothes and into her silk slip and matching robe. She allowed her legs to stretch over the length of the sofa while she continued to read. This task was difficult for her; staying still, not moving, not thinking, wondering how things were getting along in the shop without her. Tommy might have been right to send her home, but it didn’t mean she liked doing so. 

That was when the man himself opened the door and slammed it shut. Speak of the devil, she thought. Without pausing to take off his overcoat he walked into the house and in front of the sofa where Danielle was laying. He looked at her as he poured himself a drink from the glass bottle of whiskey on the coffee table.

When he was done pouring he took a sip. It was then that he finally took off his hat and coat and threw them onto the chair adjacent to Danielle. He then walked over to the sofa, drink in hand, and motioned with his hand for Danielle to move her legs. She did so, and he sat at the end of the sofa with his arm stretched out on the back of the furniture, “Put your legs back over me, Danny.”

She stretched her legs across his lap and for a few minutes the pair sat in silence. He drank and looked back and forth between Danielle and the fireplace. She read and every once and a while examined his demeanour to try and read what was happening in his mind. 

“The boys told me about Campbell,” Tommy broke the silence as his eyes remained fixed on the fireplace. Danielle looked up at him. She had hoped neither of them would mention it to him. He looked at her, “They’re loyal to both of us, but I’m the one who pays them.” It was as if he could read her mind. 

“I love you Thomas, I do, but lately you're smothering me in adoration.” Danielle put down her book and sat up onto her knees so she could face him, “I’m here,” she grabbed the sides of his face, “I’m right here. And I’m okay.” 

She kissed him and he put down his glass of whiskey. He started leaning over her and her back lowered until it was against the sofa, “I’m glad you’re feeling better,” Tommy said as he pushed her knees apart and lowered himself over her to kiss her once more. 

“Oh really?” Danielle teased, “And why might that be Mr. Shelby?” she laughed as he kissed her neck and grabbed her breast with the other hand. Her breasts were starting to get sore now. She was sure that soon he wouldn’t be able to be so rough with them.

“Because I have plans for you, Miss Virtue. Big plans,” he teased back as he rocked his hips into hers. 

Even though he was still clothed Danielle could feel her body come alive, “Oh and are your ‘plans’ the only reason why you’re happy I’m feeling better?”

He drew his body back so Danielle could look in his eyes, “Well that,” he shrugged his shoulders, “and the fact that the betting shop may very well fall apart without you.”

Danielle playfully slapped his arm and went to kiss him again. After a second he pulled back and stood from the sofa. Danielle sat up as she watched him grab his coat and hat, and put them back on, “I have business to attend to tonight, Danny. I’ll make it up to you when I get home eh?” He leaned down to kiss her one last time before he walked towards the door. 

Before he left Danielle spoke in a serious tone, “You know at some point you’re going to have to tell me what deal you’ve made with Campbell, and why he has evidence against you. I won’t have you start keeping things from me, not now Tommy.”

Later That Night - Tommy

He stood waiting in the alleyway as the daylight faded. He had been standing against the pillar of the building waiting with a smoke in hand for nearly fifteen minutes. He knew that he would have to tell Danielle what was going on soon. She wouldn’t allow him to keep denying the problem Campbell had set before him much longer. The thought made him feel as though a lump had formed deep in his gut - heavy and unable to be ignored. 

He adjusted his stance against the wall when he was jolted out of his thoughts by the sound of a metal cane approaching. He waited until Campbell came around the corner to reveal himself in the light, “Our scheduled meeting is not until Sunday.”

“Sorry to bring it forward,” Tommy cleared his throat, trying to get rid of the lump he felt in his gut. 

“You just wanted to show me that you know where I live,” Campbell said as he put both hands on his cane and leaned against it, “Am I supposed to be impressed?”

“You know, Mr. Churchill was impressed. All my demands are being met. I have my export licence, granted to me from the Minister himself. Did he tell you?” Tommy asked, wanting to confirm that it was in fact Churchill Campbell had been answering too.

“Yes. Yes we had a meeting and it was read aloud. As a matter of fact there was quite a lot of hilarity at the meeting. The gentlemen found it quite funny.” 

“Tell me this Mr. Campbell, do the gentlemen sometimes find you funny?” As Tommy spoke he motioned with his cigarette. 

Campbell took a step closer to Tommy who continued to lean against the building, “We will discuss our business on Sunday. On the agreed day at the allotted time.”

“Is that what we’ll do?” Tommy put his hands out to the sides, “Then why were you on Watery Lane today, speaking to Miss Virtue?”

Campbell turned to walk down the street, “Goodnight, Mr. Shelby.”

Tommy took a step forward to block the path he was going to walk down, “Let me be clear, Mr. Campbell. Danielle must be kept out of this if your mission is to be a success.”

“Our mission,” Campbell corrected.

“Our mission,” Tommy said as he moved to lean back against the wall, “I want it understood that she is not a part of this.”

“She became a part of this when you decided to marry her, and when you put a child in her,” Campbell said as he struck his cane to the ground, “What happens to her will be based on your actions and your actions alone.”

Tommy flexed his jaw as he felt the lump return to his stomach. Campbell continued walking down the alleyway, “Just one more thing. Because I don’t want you to be made a fool of is all,” Tommy stood in the centre of the alley as he regained his composure, and Campbell stopped in his tracks. “The lodgings chosen for you by the police department. How shall I put this?” Tommy put his free hand into his pants pocket, “Well the landlady used to run the most famous whorehouse in Stechford.” Tommy walked to catch up to Campbell, “She’s only semi-retired. I bet the gentlemen would find that funny - eh?” Tommy leaned over Campbell and in a deep tone repeated, “Leave Miss Virtue alone, or our deal is off.”

Campbell looked at Tommy with narrowing eyes before he set off again and walked down the street. 

[peakyoak]

This Dark Disposition - Masterlist

Tommy Shelby x O/C (Danielle Virtue)

25 year old Danielle Virtue has just moved to Birmingham. A wartime nurse, Danielle has just returned to England from France in the aftermath of World War One. Hoping for a fresh start in a new city, Danielle struggles to make ends meet and provide money for her mother and younger siblings. That is until Thomas Shelby, a mysterious and ambitious man, makes Danielle an offer - one that will take care of all her problems. In return, Danielle must be willing to enter a private arrangement with the Birmingham Gangster: companionship and intimacy, in exchange for security and money. Will Danielle accept Tommy's deal? And what are Tommy's true motivations for pursuing Danielle? Is it merely lust and loneliness, or does the notorious gangster have feelings for Danielle that extend beyond the signed contract?

Chapter 1 - Birmingham

Chapter 2 - Growing Pains

Chapter 3 - The Garrison,

Chapter 4 - Proposition 

Chapter 5 - Dance With The Devil 

Chapter 6 - Friday 

Chapter 7 - Inspector Campbell 

Chapter 8 - Everything is Extra 

Chapter 9 - Debt Repaid 

Chapter 10 - The Pictures 

Chapter 11 - Mistress

Chapter 12 - New Beginnings

Chapter 13 - Kimber

Chapter 14 - Cheltenham

Chapter 15 - Coins On The Table

Chapter 16 - Gift      

Chapter 17 - Wedding

Chapter 18 - Silence 

Chapter 19 - Midnight 

Chapter 20 - Burn 

Chapter 21 - Family Meeting 

Chapter 22 - Worcester 

Chapter 23 - Manchester 

Chapter 24 - Endeavour 

Chapter 25 - Till The Danger Passes

Chapter 26 - London 

Chapter 27 - Polly 

Chapter 28 - Sabini 

Chapter 29 - Aftermath 

Chapter 30 - Camden Town 

Chapter 31 - Secrets 

Chapter 32 - On Solid Ground 

[peakyoak]

Changed it up a bit 💕😋😋