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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 22 - Goodbye Johnboy
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Thank you for getting this far, this will be the last chapter of this story. 💕
Even in the long-uninhabited house, it's not cold, but I still tighten my collar. Ismay... she must have left with the children, something she always wanted. Everyone has their own aspirations, which is understandable. I just wonder if the Lee family will accept her as before—with her husband and ex-wife's children in tow.
"What about Maria? Is she okay, injured?" After John's release, he bought a small villa in the countryside, with a yard, where he lived with his little family. He survived the gunfire on the hellish battlefield, only to die in a shameful ambush.
"Do you want to take her in?" Tommy, still holding the phone, just turned his head to ask me.
"If she's willing, do you mind?" Despite Tommy's attempts to stop me, I still went to John's house. ...Maybe now it can only be called a house.
It's winter now, the yard desolate, remnants of snow covering dry grass, dark red traces winding on the stone path. Without a fireplace, the living room on the first floor is as cold as an ice cellar.
Ismay is not at home, only the children wrapped in thick blankets huddle in the attic. When they see me, they all rush over. I make some hot milk, tuck them into bed, just like seven years ago.
Seven years ago... it was also winter when the Shelby brothers returned from the battlefield. Birmingham train station seems to float before my eyes, John's hearty laughter piercing through the lingering smoke...
I lower my head, wiping my eyes. "Dad is gone."
Maria sits next to me, looking out the window like me. I turn to look at her, but can't find any words to comfort her—because this is the truth. She's 13 now, buried her mother with me, and I can't use the words like "he just went to a place we can't go" to fool her.
"I'm an orphan," she says, her voice choking, trembling as she wipes her eyes.
I embrace her.
I know, just as I thought, even if Maria has no malice towards Ismay, and they get along well, Maria will not admit another woman as her mother. Just like me back then, Maria won't face the ruthless relatives dividing the property, even if Ismay leaves the Shelbys, I'll find a lawyer to settle John's assets and hand them over to her personally. A widow with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
Once she calms down, I bring up my intention to her, "Dear, would you like to come and live with us?"
"What about Harry and them?"
"Just you."
It's not that Tommy and I can't afford to raise Maria's half-siblings, relying on my own assets would be enough to support them, along with my sons, without worry. But now we're at a disadvantage, it's not easy to take care of more children, and I don't want those Italians to use Martha and John's children as bargaining chips. Even if Ismay wants to leave the Shelbys, I'll calculate John's assets with a lawyer and hand them over to her personally. A widowed woman with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
"I'll take care of them."
"Even in this situation, you still think about those children?"
"What can I do, Maria?"
After finishing the conversation, I still went to John's house...
Maybe now it can only be called a house.
Now it's winter, the yard is desolate, the remaining snow covers the dry grass, and dark red traces wind on the stone path. Without a fireplace, the living room on the first floor is as cold as an ice cellar.
Ismay is not at home, only the children wrapped in thick blankets huddle in the attic. When they see me, they all rush over. I make some hot milk, tuck them into bed, just like seven years ago.
Seven years ago... it was also winter when the Shelby brothers returned from the battlefield. Birmingham train station seems to float before my eyes, John's hearty laughter piercing through the lingering smoke...
I lower my head, wiping my eyes. "Dad is gone."
Maria sits next to me, looking out the window like me. I turn to look at her, but can't find any words to comfort her—because this is the truth. She's 13 now, buried her mother with me, and I can't use the words like "he just went to a place we can't go" to fool her.
"I'm an orphan," she says, her voice choking, trembling as she wipes her eyes.
I embrace her.
I know, just as I thought, even if Maria has no malice towards Ismay, and they get along well, Maria will not admit another woman as her mother. Just like me back then, Maria won't face the ruthless relatives dividing the property, even if Ismay leaves the Shelbys, I'll find a lawyer to settle John's assets and hand them over to her personally. A widow with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
Once she calms down, I bring up my intention to her, "Dear, would you like to come and live with us?"
"What about Harry and them?"
"Just you."
It's not that Tommy and I can't afford to raise Maria's half-siblings, relying on my own assets would be enough to support them, along with my sons, without worry. But now we're at a disadvantage, it's not easy to take care of more children, and I don't want those Italians to use Martha and John's children as bargaining chips. Even if Ismay wants to leave the Shelbys, I'll calculate John's assets with a lawyer and hand them over to her personally. A widowed woman with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
"I'll take care of them."
"Even in this situation, you still think about those children?"
"What can I do, Maria?"
After finishing the conversation, I still went to John's house...
Maybe now it can only be called a house.
Now it's winter, the yard is desolate, the remaining snow covers the dry grass, and dark red traces wind on the stone path. Without
a fireplace, the living room on the first floor is as cold as an ice cellar.
Ismay is not at home, only the children wrapped in thick blankets huddle in the attic. When they see me, they all rush over. I make some hot milk, tuck them into bed, just like seven years ago.
Seven years ago... it was also winter when the Shelby brothers returned from the battlefield. Birmingham train station seems to float before my eyes, John's hearty laughter piercing through the lingering smoke...
I lower my head, wiping my eyes. "Dad is gone."
Maria sits next to me, looking out the window like me. I turn to look at her, but can't find any words to comfort her—because this is the truth. She's 13 now, buried her mother with me, and I can't use the words like "he just went to a place we can't go" to fool her.
"I'm an orphan," she says, her voice choking, trembling as she wipes her eyes.
I embrace her.
I know, just as I thought, even if Maria has no malice towards Ismay, and they get along well, Maria will not admit another woman as her mother. Just like me back then, Maria won't face the ruthless relatives dividing the property, even if Ismay leaves the Shelbys, I'll find a lawyer to settle John's assets and hand them over to her personally. A widow with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
Once she calms down, I bring up my intention to her, "Dear, would you like to come and live with us?"
"What about Harry and them?"
"Just you."
It's not that Tommy and I can't afford to raise Maria's half-siblings, relying on my own assets would be enough to support them, along with my sons, without worry. But now we're at a disadvantage, it's not easy to take care of more children, and I don't want those Italians to use Martha and John's children as bargaining chips. Even if Ismay wants to leave the Shelbys, I'll calculate John's assets with a lawyer and hand them over to her personally. A widowed woman with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
"I'll take care of them."
"Even in this situation, you still think about those children?"
"What can I do, Maria?"
After finishing the conversation, I still went to John's house...
Maybe now it can only be called a house.
Now it's winter, the yard is desolate, the remaining snow covers the dry grass, and dark red traces wind on the stone path. Without a fireplace, the living room on the first floor is as cold as an ice cellar.
Ismay is not at home, only the children wrapped in thick blankets huddle in the attic. When they see me, they all rush over. I make some hot milk, tuck them into bed, just like seven years ago.
Seven years ago... it was also winter when the Shelby brothers returned from the battlefield. Birmingham train station seems to float before my eyes, John's hearty laughter piercing through the lingering smoke...
I lower my head, wiping my eyes. "Dad is gone."
Maria sits next to me, looking out the window like me. I turn to look at her, but can't find any words to comfort her—because this is the truth. She's 13 now, buried her mother with me, and I can't use the words like "he just went to a place we can't go" to fool her.
"I'm an orphan," she says, her voice choking, trembling as she wipes her eyes.
I embrace her.
I know, just as I thought, even if Maria has no malice towards Ismay, and they get along well, Maria will not admit another woman as her mother. Just like me back then, Maria won't face the ruthless relatives dividing the property, even if Ismay leaves the Shelbys, I'll find a lawyer to settle John's assets and hand them over to her personally. A widow with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
Once she calms down, I bring up my intention to her, "Dear, would you like to come and live with us?"
"What about Harry and them?"
"Just you."
It's not that Tommy and I can't afford to raise Maria's half-siblings, relying on my own assets would be enough to support them, along with my sons, without worry. But now we're at a disadvantage, it's not easy to take care of more children, and I don't want those Italians to use Martha and John's children as bargaining chips. Even if Ismay wants to leave the Shelbys, I'll calculate John's assets with a lawyer and hand them over to her personally. A widowed woman with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
"I'll take care of them."
"Even in this situation, you still think about those children?"
"What can I do, Maria?"
After finishing the conversation, I still went to John's house...
Maybe now it can only be called a house.
Now it's winter, the yard is desolate, the remaining snow covers the dry grass, and dark red traces wind on the stone path. Without a fireplace, the living room on the first floor is as cold as an ice cellar.
Ismay is not at home, only the children wrapped in thick blankets huddle in the attic. When they see me, they all rush over. I make some hot milk, tuck them into bed, just like seven years ago.
Seven years ago... it was also winter when the Shelby brothers returned from the battlefield. Birmingham train station seems to float before my eyes, John's hearty laughter piercing through the lingering smoke...
I lower my head, wiping my eyes. "Dad is gone."
Maria sits next to me, looking out the window like me. I turn to look at her, but can't find any words to comfort her—because this is the truth. She's 13 now, buried her mother with me, and I can't use the words like "he just went to a place we can't go" to fool her.
"I'm an orphan," she says, her voice choking, trembling as she wipes her eyes.
I embrace her.
I know, just as I thought, even if Maria has no malice towards Ismay, and they get along well, Maria will not admit another woman as her mother. Just like me back then, Maria won't face the ruthless relatives dividing the property, even if Ismay leaves the Shelbys, I'll find a lawyer to settle John's assets and hand them over to her personally. A widow with her children returning to the wilderness needs financial support. Society, even the Gypsy society, is too malicious towards orphans and widows. I think John would agree with what I'm doing.
-
A few months passed, and life in Small Heath began to settle into a new rhythm. The Shelby family faced the challenges that came their way with the resilience that defined them. The absence of John was felt deeply, but they carried his memory forward.
Maria, now a part of the Shelby household, brought a different energy into the home. Despite the hardships, she managed to bring laughter and warmth back into the lives of the Shelby children. Ada, always the pragmatic one, helped guide the family through the intricacies of their evolving circumstances.
As winter gave way to spring, Thomas Shelby found solace in the routines of daily life. The business thrived, and alliances were forged that solidified the Shelby name in Birmingham. He and Grace grew closer, finding comfort in each other's presence amidst the storm that had passed.
One day, as Thomas walked through the garden behind the Shelby residence, he found Grace sitting on a bench, lost in thought. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, and the sun cast a gentle warmth upon them.
"Tommy," Grace said, breaking the silence, "I never expected this life, but I wouldn't trade it for anything."
He sat down beside her, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "We've been through hell and back, Grace. But here we are."
She turned to him, a soft smile playing on her lips. "For Johnboy," she whispered.
Thomas nodded, the weight of their shared losses hanging in the air. "For Johnboy," he echoed, intertwining his fingers with hers.
The Shelby family, though scarred by the battles of the past, found strength in each other. The Shelby Company continued to prosper, and Small Heath, once a battleground, now stood as a testament to their resilience.
In the evenings, Thomas and Grace would take walks through the quiet streets, hand in hand. The echoes of the past began to fade, replaced by the promise of a future they had fought hard to secure.
As they stood on the balcony of their home, overlooking the city that had witnessed their triumphs and tragedies, Thomas Shelby realized that, despite the losses, life had a way of moving forward.
And so, in the fading light of the Birmingham sunset, the Shelby family found a new beginning—a testament to their strength, love, and the enduring spirit that defined them.
-
Years later, the Shelby family found themselves reflecting on the tumultuous journey that led them to where they stood. Small Heath had transformed, and the Shelby name resonated not just in Birmingham but far beyond. The once gritty streets now bore the marks of progress, but the memories of their rise lingered like shadows.
Thomas Shelby, now seasoned by time and experience, sat in his study surrounded by the relics of a bygone era. The clinking of whiskey glasses echoed as he and Diana raised a toast to the legacy they had built. The photographs on the walls captured moments of triumph, loss, and the indomitable Shelby spirit.
As he looked at the framed picture of John, a bittersweet smile crossed Thomas's face. The pain had dulled with the passage of years, but the bond with his late brother remained etched in his heart.
Ada, a pillar of strength for the family, had forged her own path. Her intelligence and resilience had taken her beyond Birmingham's confines, and she had become a symbol of women breaking barriers.
Tommy's children had grown into formidable individuals, inheriting the Shelby grit. Charlie, with a keen mind for business, played a crucial role in expanding the Shelby Company. His sister, Mary, had become a force to be reckoned with, embodying the Shelby strength in every decision she made.
Arthur, though scarred by his past, had found redemption through love. His family had helped him conquer the demons that once haunted him, and he had become a symbol of transformation.
Diana, sitting beside Thomas, reflected on the sacrifices made and the victories earned. The love between them had weathered storms, and their partnership had become the backbone of the Shelby legacy.
The Shelby Company had diversified its interests, and its influence stretched across various industries. The family had navigated the treacherous waters of politics, business, and crime, emerging not unscathed but victorious.
In the dim light of the study, Thomas raised a photo of the entire Shelby family—past and present. His gaze lingered on the faces of those who were no longer there, a silent acknowledgment of the cost of their chosen path.
As the clock ticked, the Shelby family continued to stand against the currents of time. The streets of Small Heath whispered tales of their triumphs and struggles, a testament to the indelible mark the Peaky Blinders had left on history.
And so, with the weight of their legacy behind them, the Shelby family faced the future, their story forever etched in the annals of Birmingham's history.
Fin
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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 21 - Christmas
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"Are you spending Christmas alone this year?" "Ada, you know, to solve the problem, you must ring the bell." I sighed. "They are still resentful of Tommy. Except for Michael, who is still working, they don't even want to see me." "But our little Ollie hasn't met his cousin yet, has he?" Ada gently rubbed Orlando's head. The little guy was looking up at us, bubbles coming out of his mouth. I bent down and wiped his mouth. Last Christmas Eve, I gave birth to our second child with Tommy, a boy, and named him Orlando. Tommy was a bit disappointed; he thought it would be a girl. But Charles and Carl were happy; they finally had a new playmate. "Danny… we are a family…" "I know." I kept my head down, not looking at Ada. I looked at our son and eventually swallowed the complaints that were on the tip of my tongue, just pulling out a smile. "We are family, dear." I stood by the window, watching Ada leave in the car. I knew there would be a family gathering at John's big house during Christmas, and I think my husband knows that too.
"Family" is a somewhat unfamiliar term to me. It sounds more stable than a spouse but colder than close relatives. In 1914, I fled London and was taken in by Polly, but until I returned to Birmingham in 1920, I always felt like a lone soul, never truly integrated into the Shelby family, even after Tommy and I fell in love—we were more like an ordinary couple with our own families.
"Family" now has their own little families. Before that, the Shelby family was a united force, unstoppable. But Ada has Carl, John and Esme developed feelings through marriage, Polly found Michael again, Arthur met Linda, and everything started to develop in unpredictable directions. I'm not asking them to dedicate their lives to the family without personal feelings. But they have their own calculations, considering their family interests, putting the Shelby family's interests behind.
Yet they demand Tommy to be unwavering.
I still remember the unreasonable demands of the Shelbys when I was injured from the gunshot—Tommy "should" come back. Things they couldn't do, they demanded from my little prince, forcing him to put his beloved wife and child in second place, a position that would continue to torment him with guilt and worry. I dare not imagine what kind of life Tommy would lead if I had slept forever after being shot.
"Family" may be a curse buried in the blood of the Shelby family, a debt that Tommy cannot escape in his lifetime.
After June last year, sometimes I wonder, if the Shelby family only had Tommy, he might have broken through the class barrier long ago, stood in Parliament like other MPs, looking righteous and glorious.
I lower my head.
Ada is now the bridge of communication between Tommy and the rest of the Shelby family, and I can't let him lose this sister because of my grievances.
I didn't say these things just now, and I won't say them to Tommy.
Never.
Tommy has been busy lately, coming home much later than before, and when he comes home, he locks himself in the study. If I didn't have confidence in Tommy and didn't "patrol" the house every day, I would suspect that Tommy had a third party hidden in the study.
I intercepted the maid who brought him wine. "Give it to me." "Please come in."
After getting Tommy's permission, I opened the door and placed the tray of wine on his desk. By the time he saw a hand different from usual, I had already walked behind him. I bent down, my gaze passing over him to look at the documents in his hand.
"Danny."
I heard him calling me, with a pampering and helpless tone. I casually responded.
He hugged my waist, stood up, and kissed my lips. "Caught you, a little cat running around." "Your mouth is dry." After a gentle kiss, I raised my hand to touch his lips. But he opened his mouth and took my fingertip into his mouth. "Pervert!" I glanced at him, pulled out my hand, and gave him the wine.
Tommy took the glass, raised his head, and drank it all at once. Then he continued to hug my waist.
"You've been busy lately. Is there a problem with the company?" "Almost suspected you were keeping a lover in the study." I smiled and avoided his kiss. "What's wrong? Is there a problem with the company?" "But I think you already have a plan?" My curiosity was aroused by the smile on his face.
"Come on, Tommy." I held Tommy's hand and coquettishly said.
He took advantage of it to hug me and stood up, leaning over to kiss me, with small, warm kisses falling on my skin, tickling.
Too ticklish, I couldn't help laughing, gently patting his shoulder, trying to make him stop this childish thing that only Charlie would do.
"It's time, Tommy. I haven't fed Ollie yet!" "You should feed me first, dear."
After the rain stopped, we sat face to face in the bathtub.
"Do you know Jessie Eden?" Tommy leaned against the other end of the bathtub as if sitting on a throne.
"I've heard of her." I thought for a moment, recalling the cute round face woman with an apple. "She's famous, a union leader. Last year, if I remember correctly, on Good Friday, she led other workers to the streets for more women's toilets."
"She's always causing trouble. She thinks the wages of the factory girls are too low."
I looked at my husband sitting on the opposite side with a calm smile, but his smile disappeared.
The Shelby Foundation has always been my responsibility. I know it's a way for Tommy to whitewash, to improve our image in the eyes of the public. Before Ollie was born, I visited the factories under my husband's name. But what I saw shocked me—some pregnant women had to sit in front of the machines.
I was pregnant with Ollie at that time, and I knew how difficult pregnancy could be. Even if Tommy wanted someone to take care of me 24 hours a day, he couldn't make up for the physical pain and discomfort.
My background and assets mean that I never need to work like those women. I just need to take care of Charlie at home, occasionally show my face in Birmingham like a mascot, and enjoy the careful care of the maids and the love from my husband and son. Those women, even when pregnant, had to run for the family's livelihood, and when they returned home, there might be countless chores waiting for them.
Whether it's for the future of the Shelby family or out of sympathy for those women, there are some things I must say.
"Tommy, no matter what, you can't lower their wages. Maintaining the status quo is the best."
"You know my job, dear. If we can win over the union, it will be a great help to us. We need to unite all the forces we can unite, Tommy."
"But I think you already have a plan."
My curiosity was aroused by the smile on his face.
"Come on, Tommy." I held Tommy's hand and coquettishly said.
He took advantage of it to hug me and stood up
, leaning over to kiss me, with small, warm kisses falling on my skin, tickling.
Too ticklish, I couldn't help laughing, gently patting his shoulder, trying to make him stop this childish thing that only Charlie would do.
"It's time, Tommy. I haven't fed Ollie yet!" "You should feed me first, dear."
After the rain stopped, we sat face to face in the bathtub.
"Do you know Jessie Eden?" Tommy leaned against the other end of the bathtub as if sitting on a throne.
"I've heard of her." I thought for a moment, recalling the cute round face woman with an apple. "She's famous, a union leader. Last year, if I remember correctly, on Good Friday, she led other workers to the streets for more women's toilets."
"She's always causing trouble. She thinks the wages of the factory girls are too low."
I looked at my husband sitting on the opposite side with a calm smile, but his smile disappeared.
The Shelby Foundation has always been my responsibility. I know it's a way for Tommy to whitewash, to improve our image in the eyes of the public. Before Ollie was born, I visited the factories under my husband's name. But what I saw shocked me—some pregnant women had to sit in front of the machines.
I was pregnant with Ollie at that time, and I knew how difficult pregnancy could be. Even if Tommy wanted someone to take care of me 24 hours a day, he couldn't make up for the physical pain and discomfort.
My background and assets mean that I never need to work like those women. I just need to take care of Charlie at home, occasionally show my face in Birmingham like a mascot, and enjoy the careful care of the maids and the love from my husband and son. Those women, even when pregnant, had to run for the family's livelihood, and when they returned home, there might be countless chores waiting for them.
Whether it's for the future of the Shelby family or out of sympathy for those women, there are some things I must say.
"Tommy, no matter what, you can't lower their wages. Maintaining the status quo is the best."
"You know my job, dear. If we can win over the union, it will be a great help to us. We need to unite all the forces we can unite, and the union is the most critical one." I knew it wouldn't be so simple. I took a deep breath and looked at Tommy. "I understand your thoughts, but you also need to consider the interests of the Shelby family. If you hurt those women, not only will you lose support, but it may also cause conflicts within the family." "Jessie Eden is a thorn in my side, but I can't just eliminate her. The union has too much influence in Birmingham. We need a plan to control the situation and achieve our goals without causing too much trouble."
I nodded. "I will think about it, and I will help you find a way to deal with this matter properly."
Tommy's eyes softened as he looked at me. "Thank you, my love. I know I can always rely on you."
We finished our bath and got dressed, heading downstairs to join the family for dinner. As we walked hand in hand, I couldn't help but think about the challenges ahead. The world was changing, and the Shelby family needed to adapt. I would do my best to support Tommy, but I also had to ensure the well-being of our family.
As we entered the dining room, the atmosphere shifted. Ada and Michael were sitting at the table, discussing something in hushed tones. John and Esme seemed tense, exchanging glances. Arthur was unusually quiet, his eyes darting between Tommy and me.
I could sense the tension in the air, and I knew that the Shelby family was on the verge of a new chapter, one that would test our bonds and loyalties. The storm was brewing, and I had to navigate through it, not just as Tommy's wife, but as a Shelby with her own convictions.
The dinner table was filled with both the aroma of food and the unspoken weight of the challenges that lay ahead.
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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 20 - Gangster
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@ell0ra-br3kk3r June 1924, Warwickshire
Tommy simply cleaned up and drove away. He had to complete the final deal. I sat on Charlie's bed, staring out the window absentmindedly. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but I just really disliked that Russian woman. Maybe it's because I didn't know how to handle her, and I don't like things slipping out of control. Plus, she was too fearless, too crazy, and her gaze towards Tommy seemed too naked, as if my husband could be used as a bargaining chip. I dare say she wouldn't mind making love to Tommy right in front of me. God knows what goes on in the minds of these Russians!
Fortunately, I won't have to see her again after today. The sky gradually brightened, and I listened to the birds outside and the sound of cars passing by, feeling tired. Wrapped in a cashmere shawl, I leaned back on the sofa and closed my eyes. My eyes were just a bit tired…
"Mrs."
I opened my eyes and saw Jenny with apologetic eyes. "Sorry to disturb your rest, but Mr. Mos called, looking for Mr. Shelby."
I felt a bit dizzy when I stood up, thankfully Jenny supported me. "Mrs., would you like to have something to eat first?"
I smiled and shook my head at her, picking up the receiver. "Good morning, Officer Mos. I'm Diana Shelby. My husband is not at home. You can tell me what you need, and I'll relay it to him word for word."
"Alright, I understand. Thank you for your cooperation, Mrs. Shelby."
As I hung up the phone, I almost stumbled to the ground. Luckily, Tommy caught me in time and carried me back to the bedroom. "What did Mos say?" Tommy skillfully massaged my legs.
"Birmingham Police issued arrest warrants. Arthur, John, Polly, Michael, none of them can escape." I looked at my husband with a heavy heart. It was Churchill's blatant threat: he knew Tommy's weakness was his blood ties, but not arresting me and Charlie was to avoid Tommy causing chaos. Not arresting Tommy was to keep him obedient and working for him.
Churchill's problems are easy to solve, but I can already imagine the resentment the Shelbys will have towards Tommy after today.
Tommy kissed my lips. "You should rest, Diana. You're carrying a child." He looked at my slightly bulging belly, touched it, and said, "Don't worry, everything will be fine."
"And then what? Are you going to handle everything on your own?"
"Diana, you're pregnant." He finally looked up. "I don't want anything to happen to you and our child."
"Then what? Are you going to bear everything on your own?"
"Diana, you're pregnant." He finally looked up. "I don't want anything to happen to you and our child."
"……"
I was awakened by the noise downstairs.
I got up from the bed. My head was still dizzy, and I felt confused. I turned the doorknob, wanting to see what was happening outside, but found that the door was locked.
Then I remembered Mos's call this morning.
It began.
I sat back on the bed, closed my eyes, and waited for the commotion to pass.
I heard someone fiddling with the doorknob of our bedroom, trying to open the door.
I heard Tommy's angry questioning, suppressing his anger. "If you have any dissatisfaction, you can say it out loud. What are you doing sneaking around my wife's door?"
… It was Linda.
They were arguing, and I couldn't hear it clearly through the door, but I knew Ada, Esme, and Lizzy Stark had also joined in. Advice and arguments mixed into a mess.
In fact, Linda couldn't argue with me. In fact, among the people I know, there are few who can win in a verbal dispute with me. And as a sister-in-law, as the wife of the head of the family, I have absolute confidence in handling Linda and Esme's dissatisfaction and soothing their emotions. But Tommy is too cautious and worried. He's afraid they'll impulsively hurt me and my unborn child, so he locked me in the bedroom.
Finally, at the cost of a slap, the noise outside returned to calm.
I was awakened by the noise downstairs.
I got up from the bed. My head was still dizzy, and I felt confused. I turned the doorknob, wanting to see what was happening outside, but found that the door was locked.
Then I remembered Mos's call this morning.
It began.
I sat back on the bed, closed my eyes, and waited for the commotion to pass.
I heard someone fiddling with the doorknob of our bedroom, trying to open the door.
I heard Tommy's angry questioning, suppressing his anger. "If you have any dissatisfaction, you can say it out loud. What are you doing sneaking around my wife's door?"
… It was Linda.
They were arguing, and I couldn't hear it clearly through the door, but I knew Ada, Esme, and Lizzy Stark had also joined in. Advice and arguments mixed into a mess.
In fact, Linda couldn't argue with me. In fact, among the people I know, there are few who can win in a verbal dispute with me. And as a sister-in-law, as the wife of the head of the family, I have absolute confidence in handling Linda and Esme's dissatisfaction and soothing their emotions. But Tommy is too cautious and worried. He's afraid they'll impulsively hurt me and my unborn child, so he locked me in the bedroom.
Finally, at the cost of a slap, the noise outside returned to calm.
Quiet.
The whole house was quiet.
These big houses are like monsters, devouring the worldly atmosphere, silently watching the joys and sorrows inside. When the house is quiet, like now, every piece of tile, every inch of wooden furniture is chilling to the bone. The sun is so big, but it can't illuminate every corner of the house. I can't tell if this kind of emptiness is glory or curse.
After a while, the door rang, and Tommy walked in. There were still handprints on his face. When he came in, he was lighting a cigarette, and when he saw me awake, he quickly hid the cigarette behind him. "How did you sleep?"
"Quite well." I walked up to him, took the lit cigarette from his hand, and put it in his mouth. "I'll allow you to break the rules once."
He smiled and let me press him on the bed gently. "You should rest too, Mrs. Shelby."
Tommy slept beside me, and I lay beside him. Even though he was asleep, he still furrowed his brows slightly. What could he be worrying about in his dreams? I helplessly smiled.
Actually, if he was willing, I could go back to London and deal with things. My father was a conservative, and I used to be a patron of the conservatives. Since Solomon could reconcile with Tommy, businessmen and politicians should be no problem. Tommy seemed to hear my thoughts in his dreams. He raised his head, "You're pregnant."
"Then what? Are you going to bear everything on your own?"
"Diana,
you're pregnant." He finally looked up. "I don't want anything to happen to you and our child."
"What's next? Are you going to handle everything on your own?"
"Diana, you're pregnant." He finally looked up. "I don't want anything to happen to you and our child."
"……"
Mrs. Shelby 21 Gang - Vanessa's Poplar Tree
After a while of rest, Tommy started his early departures and late returns, busy with Churchill's orders.
Ada was the only Shelby who still wanted to associate with us. She would bring Carl to accompany Charlie when I attended Shelby Charity Foundation events.
Tommy originally disagreed with me traveling around with a big belly. He hoped I could stay at home and rest peacefully. "The foundation's matters can wait until after you give birth."
"But you know, Tommy, you can leave me at home, but you can't keep me from worrying about you. I have to find something to do to distract my attention."
Tommy glanced at me, hesitated, and finally spoke, "You know those people won't allow us to enter their halls."
"Oh, whatever." I certainly knew that those aristocrats looked down on the Shelby family. The flattery of those noble ladies was only because of my title. But it didn't matter. My goal was not to please them.
I want the people of Birmingham to feel the grace of the Shelby family and build a good reputation for the Shelby family in Birmingham. With both grace and authority, we will establish our own system on our land. We are no longer street thugs but businessmen wandering in the gray area. I don't care about how those aristocratic ladies perceive us; what matters is how we handle ourselves.
They may want to erase us insignificant little people, but I won't let them have their way.
Actually, both of us didn't know exactly what we were busy with. But Tommy remembered my due date even more clearly than I did.
Since December, he began to nervously watch my bulging belly, forbidding Charlie from playing around me, and often supporting me on walks in the garden.
Tommy's efforts were not in vain. Arthur and the others were released before Christmas, and Tommy also received an OBE medal. Tommy, who just got the medal, looked like a kid who just bought the Mona Lisa, proud even without saying a word. Until he found that I had almost no reaction to it.
"There are still Commander medals below OBE, and above that are Knight Commander medals and Knight Grand Cross medals. Only citizens awarded the top two grades of honors are considered to have received a knighthood, and they can add the title of Sir before their surname." I explained to him like reciting a textbook.
Tommy fell silent after hearing this.
Today is Christmas, and I don't want my little prince to feel unhappy. I quickly put on a smiling face. "But this is a leap from zero to hero, isn't it?"
He shook his head and smiled self-deprecatingly. "I thought… the weight of those things would be heavy enough."
Maybe in their hearts, we who hold those things are not important enough.
But these are not things we need to care about now.
I felt a warm flow between my legs and pain in my lower abdomen. I curled up, hoping to alleviate the pain as much as possible.
"Tommy… the amniotic fluid broke…"
Bloody Gang - Mrs. Shelby - Tommy Shelby
After a while of rest, Tommy started his early departures and late returns, busy with Churchill's orders.
Ada was the only Shelby who still wanted to associate with us. She would bring Carl to accompany Charlie when I attended Shelby Charity Foundation events.
Tommy originally disagreed with me traveling around with a big belly. He hoped I could stay at home and rest peacefully. "The foundation's matters can wait until after you give birth."
"But you know, Tommy, you can leave me at home, but you can't keep me from worrying about you. I have to find something to do to distract my attention."
Tommy glanced at me, hesitated, and finally spoke, "You know those people won't allow us to enter their halls."
"Oh, whatever." I certainly knew that those aristocrats looked down on the Shelby family. The flattery of those noble ladies was only because of my title. But it didn't matter. My goal was not to please them.
I want the people of Birmingham to feel the grace of the Shelby family and build a good reputation for the Shelby family in Birmingham. With both grace and authority, we will establish our own system on our land. We are no longer street thugs but businessmen wandering in the gray area. I don't care about how those aristocratic ladies perceive us; what matters is how we handle ourselves.
They may want to erase us insignificant little people, but I won't let them have their way.
Actually, both of us didn't know exactly what we were busy with. But Tommy remembered my due date even more clearly than I did.
Since December, he began to nervously watch my bulging belly, forbidding Charlie from playing around me, and often supporting me on walks in the garden.
Tommy's efforts were not in vain. Arthur and the others were released before Christmas, and Tommy also received an OBE medal. Tommy, who just got the medal, looked like a kid who just bought the Mona Lisa, proud even without saying a word. Until he found that I had almost no reaction to it.
"There are still Commander medals below OBE, and above that are Knight Commander medals and Knight Grand Cross medals. Only citizens awarded the top two grades of honors are considered to have received a knighthood, and they can add the title of Sir before their surname." I explained to him like reciting a textbook.
Tommy fell silent after hearing this.
Today is Christmas, and I don't want my little prince to feel unhappy. I quickly put on a smiling face. "But this is a leap from zero to hero, isn't it?"
He shook his head and smiled self-deprecatingly. "I thought… the weight of those things would be heavy enough."
Maybe in their hearts, we who hold those things are not important enough.
But these are not things we need to care about now.
I felt a warm flow between my legs and pain in my lower abdomen. I curled up, hoping to alleviate the pain as much as possible.
"Tommy… my water broke…"
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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby- Chapter 19 - The Truth
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I stood by the bedroom's French window, watching the Duchess drive away.
Everything seemed logical: Churchill disagreed with the government, then secretly approached Tommy to sell weapons to the Russians. Yet, for some reason, a vague unease lingered within me.
Economic alliances, members of parliament, government officials, the King, Russians... I've been bombarded with too much information in such a short time.
Despite trusting Tommy completely with matters of love and marriage, as the woman said, I knew nothing, and Tommy told me nothing.
He seemed to forget that I was the daughter of a former government official, raised around those deceitful politicians. My sensitivity to such matters would undoubtedly match his.
But Tommy wouldn't tell me.
I rubbed my chin irritably.
Suddenly, I recalled my wedding day, Aunt Victoria's eyes gleaming as she observed my husband's sisters circling him, wrinkled faces smiling maliciously.
"Do you know why seductresses easily rise to power? Because, no matter how rational and composed men are in daily life, ultimately, in bed, these men think with their lower halves. God created women from man's rib, destined for us to control their hearts."
I successfully pried information about his current situation and plans from my husband's mouth, the cost being legs so sore I could hardly walk and even needed Tommy to carry me into the bath.
"The Economic Alliance General leaked information about the weapons to the Soviet Embassy, and the Russians are sending someone to blow up the train," Tommy said. The Russian woman came today to inform him, leaving the disposal of Hughes in his hands.
"So, you're going to..." I gestured at his neck.
Tommy grabbed my hand, nodding. "He also threatens Charlie's safety."
"But... do you really think he's a Soviet agent?" I sat up from his embrace. "You said Churchill introduced him for this deal."
"Yeah."
"He won't figure out which side Hughes is on?" If he can't, he has no place in politics; he should go back to his estate and focus on painting. "If Churchill is Hughes' superior and their goals align, why would he sell weapons to Soviet enemies? Why wouldn't he handle the deal, benefit from it, and wait for it to be disrupted?"
"...Are you saying Churchill is pursuing a larger conspiracy?"
After Tommy's revelation, we fell into silence.
"...Is Churchill currently out of office in the government?"
"Yeah." With the Labour Party in power now, I knew that from my visit to London before the wedding. The government was pro-Soviet, which led Churchill to seek Tommy for this secret mission...
Secret missions without benefits, larger conspiracies...
"So, their goal isn't really about this business!" I suddenly understood, feeling a chill down my spine, unable to hold back a shocked cry.
With the Labour Party in power, Churchill and other Conservatives are currently unemployed! They need an opportunity to turn the tide and regain control of politics. If the train is blown up within Britain, it would be blamed on the Bolsheviks, giving the Conservatives a chance to rise again.
"Whether there are weapons on the train, who blew up the weapons, whether they reach their destination, whether you get paid, or if there's a danger to life, they don't care. They only care about the outcome they want."
Though I grew up around politicians, witnessing their colonial activities, I never thought they could be so shameless and ruthless—they're willing to sacrifice taxpayers' lives for their political careers!
"...What's your plan now?" I felt a chilling sensation, tightly gripping Tommy's hand. He pulled me into his embrace.
"I hope this isn't true, Tommy... I hope I'm having a nightmare..."
We lay in bed, embracing each other, sleepless through the night until Charlie's cries pulled us out of bed.
"I'll still kill Hughes." He whispered to me while tying his tie, making sure only we could hear. "Can't let the Russians sense anything unusual."
"We can't just follow their orders. We can't let those big shots do whatever they want. No one can threaten our son, Dani, no one."
It's a gambler's move. I glanced at him.
A wild horse, difficult to tame, often holds more power than an obedient one, making it more expensive, valuable, and likable. But if the horse is too unruly, difficult to tame, it will be eliminated.
But do we have a better option?
"Take care of yourself, Tommy."
Tommy went to kill.
But now it's already evening, and he hasn't come back, not a single message. I dare not call Arthur or John; Tommy's absence shakes the foundation of this household.
"It's 11 o'clock, ma'am," Jenny walked over.
"Is it..." I looked at the cold dishes on the table, suddenly feeling that without Tommy, this house is just like 10 King's Road, constantly emitting a millennium of cold air.
"Take these away, Jenny." I got up from the dining room and sat next to Charlie's crib.
Even though his father isn't at home, this little guy is sleeping soundly.
I touched his dark golden hair, his tender face, and his chubby hands. Charlie is a handsome boy; his blue eyes are exactly like his dad's. I still remember when Charlie was born, Tommy holding him so stiffly, insisting he looked like me.
"For heaven's sake! Tommy, he's a boy! And he's so small, how can you tell anything?! At least I hope he looks like you, Dani."
I looked at our son, suddenly thinking of Aunt Polly's eyes rolling around at my wedding, watching those sisters trying to get close to my husband, with wrinkled faces smiling maliciously.
"Do you know why seductresses easily rise to power? Because, no matter how rational and composed men are in daily life, ultimately, in bed, these men think with their lower halves. God created women from man's rib, destined for us to control their hearts."
I successfully pried information about his current situation and plans from my husband's mouth, the cost being legs so sore I could hardly walk and even needed Tommy to carry me into the bath.
"The Economic Alliance General leaked information about the weapons to the Soviet Embassy, and the Russians are sending someone to blow up the train," Tommy said. The Russian woman came today to inform him, leaving the disposal of Hughes in his hands.
"So, you're going to..." I gestured at his neck.
Tommy grabbed my hand, nodding. "He also threatens Charlie's safety."
"But... do you really think he's a Soviet agent?" I sat up from his embrace. "You said Churchill introduced him for this deal."
"Yeah."
"He won't figure out which side Hughes is on?" If he can't, he has no place in politics; he should go back to his estate and focus on painting. "If Churchill is Hughes' superior and their goals align, why would he sell weapons to Soviet enemies? Why wouldn't he handle the deal, benefit from it, and wait for it to be disrupted?"
"...Are you saying Churchill is pursuing a larger conspiracy?"
After Tommy's revelation, we fell into silence.
"...Is Churchill currently out of office in the government?"
"Yeah." With the Labour Party in power now, I knew that from my visit to London before the wedding. The government was pro-Soviet, which led Churchill
to seek Tommy for this secret mission...
Secret missions without benefits, larger conspiracies...
"So, their goal isn't really about this business!" I suddenly understood, feeling a chill down my spine, unable to hold back a shocked cry.
With the Labour Party in power, Churchill and other Conservatives are currently unemployed! They need an opportunity to turn the tide and regain control of politics. If the train is blown up within Britain, it would be blamed on the Bolsheviks, giving the Conservatives a chance to rise again.
"Whether there are weapons on the train, who blew up the weapons, whether they reach their destination, whether you get paid, or if there's a danger to life, they don't care. They only care about the outcome they want."
Though I grew up around politicians, witnessing their colonial activities, I never thought they could be so shameless and ruthless—they're willing to sacrifice taxpayers' lives for their political careers!
"...What's your plan now?" I felt a chilling sensation, tightly gripping Tommy's hand. He pulled me into his embrace.
"I hope this isn't true, Tommy... I hope I'm having a nightmare..."
We lay in bed, embracing each other, sleepless through the night until Charlie's cries pulled us out of bed.
"I'll still kill Hughes." He whispered to me while tying his tie, making sure only we could hear. "Can't let the Russians sense anything unusual."
"We can't just follow their orders. We can't let those big shots do whatever they want. No one can threaten our son, Dani, no one."
It's a gambler's move. I glanced at him.
A wild horse, difficult to tame, often holds more power than an obedient one, making it more expensive, valuable, and likable. But if the horse is too unruly, difficult to tame, it will be eliminated.
But do we have a better option?
"Take care of yourself, Tommy."
Tommy went to kill.
But now it's already evening, and he hasn't come back, not a single message. I dare not call Arthur or John; Tommy's absence shakes the foundation of this household.
"It's 11 o'clock, ma'am," Jenny walked over.
"Is it..." I looked at the cold dishes on the table, suddenly feeling that without Tommy, this house is just like 10 King's Road, constantly emitting a millennium of cold air.
"Take these away, Jenny." I got up from the dining room and sat next to Charlie's crib.
Even though his father isn't at home, this little guy is sleeping soundly.
I touched his dark golden hair, his tender face, and his chubby hands. Charlie is a handsome boy; his blue eyes are exactly like his dad's. I still remember when Charlie was born, Tommy holding him so stiffly, insisting he looked like me.
"For heaven's sake! Tommy, he's a boy! And he's so small, how can you tell anything?! At least I hope he looks like you, Dani."
I looked at our son, suddenly thinking of Aunt Polly's eyes rolling around at my wedding, watching those sisters trying to get close to my husband, with wrinkled faces smiling maliciously.
My mind wandered back to the present, the cold reality of Tommy's absence. The ticking of the clock echoed in the empty room, each second dragging on like an eternity. I couldn't shake the feeling that something had gone terribly wrong.
I clutched Charlie's crib, silently praying for Tommy's safety. The world outside seemed to blur into shadows, mirroring the uncertainty within me.
Jenny, ever observant, hesitated before speaking. "Shall I prepare a late-night meal, ma'am?"
I nodded absently, my thoughts consumed by the dangerous world Tommy navigated. As Jenny left, I traced the patterns on Charlie's blanket, finding a strange comfort in its familiarity.
The night wore on, each passing minute intensifying my anxiety. The distant sounds of the city became haunting whispers, amplifying my fears. I fought against the urge to reach out to Arthur or John, fearing what news they might bring.
Finally, the door creaked open, and I shot up, my heart pounding. But it wasn't Tommy who entered—it was Arthur, his face etched with concern.
"Where's Tommy?" My voice trembled, and Arthur's solemn expression deepened.
"We don't know, Ada. He went to deal with Hughes, but there's been no word since. We're looking for him."
Dread settled in my chest, and I clung to the hope that Tommy would return unscathed. We couldn't afford to lose him, not now. Charlie stirred in his sleep, oblivious to the turmoil surrounding him.
Hours dragged by, and the silence in the house became oppressive. I paced the room, my mind racing with scenarios, none of them offering solace. The weight of uncertainty pressed down on me, and I wished for the strength to endure whatever awaited us.
As dawn approached, Arthur returned with news that sent a chill down my spine. "We found Hughes, but Tommy... he's missing."
The room spun, and I steadied myself against the crib. Missing? Tommy, the indomitable force that faced down enemies without flinching, was missing. Panic clawed at my chest, threatening to overwhelm me.
I couldn't accept the possibility that he might not return, that our son might grow up without his father. The bond we shared, forged through trials and tribulations, seemed suddenly fragile.
Gathering my resolve, I turned to Arthur. "We need to find him. Whatever it takes."
He nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. Together, we embarked on a journey into the shadows, determined to bring Tommy home. The stakes were higher than ever, and the path ahead was shrouded in uncertainty.
As the first light of dawn illuminated the city, I steeled myself for the challenges that lay ahead. Whatever secrets and dangers awaited, I would face them head-on, for Tommy, for Charlie, and for the fragile hope that our family could endure the storm.
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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby- Chapter 18 - The Russians
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I grabbed Tommy's sleeve, whispered, "Tell Arthur no one blames him. I actually thought his speech was okay."
Tommy seemed to smile, a twitch at the corner of his mouth. I sat at the head, watching my husband and a guest lock eyes, the man looking away before turning towards me.
"Serve the dinner," I said, signaling the maid. I arranged the seating myself; I didn't know that man, definitely not within the guest range. Better not be Churchill; if he ruins my wedding night, there will be trouble.
"Good evening, Polly."
"Good evening, you look dazzling, dear." Polly handed me a drink; we chatted by the bar. "You were late because... hmm? Oh, you're still so easily embarrassed."
I touched my warm cheeks, murmuring, "Tommy ruined my favorite dress."
I could tell Polly hesitated, feeling I had the right to know what would happen tonight but not wanting to spoil my wedding night.
Seems like today is truly unforgettable.
"Is something going to happen tonight?" I asked. "Tommy has been anxious all day."
"You're too sharp, Darby. It makes people feel inadequate." Polly shook her head, sadly smiling. "Russian royalists, you know."
I nodded, aware of the exiled Russian aristocrats wandering in Europe, seeking support for a futile attempt to reclaim their lost power.
"Is Tommy doing business with them?" What kind of business? Alcohol, horse racing, or heroin?
Polly nodded. "Starting tonight."
Heavens! After all this time in exile, couldn't they wait one more night!
"Dani, Tommy didn't tell you to avoid worrying you. He prefers facing things alone." Seeing my strange expression, Polly explained.
"Not anymore, Polly. I'm Shelby, Diana Shelby."
Polly looked at me with a mix of warmth, pride, and concern, like a mother watching her just-married daughter. "Thomas Shelby made quite a catch, dear."
"Ladies and gentlemen, time for the newlyweds' dance." The announcer's voice interrupted; I adjusted my dress.
"Go, Diana, you can at least enjoy this dance."
Tommy held my waist, almost making me lean into him. I loved being close to him, just like how Charlie loves sticking to me.
"Do you hide some little secrets with your wife, Mr. Shelby?"
Tommy quickly responded, explaining and confessing, "They came uninvited."
"Don't make too much noise, Tommy. This involves secrecy; don't let those drunken bags of wind notice. Do you need me to do anything?"
"Enjoy the dance and our wedding night, Mrs. Shelby." He kissed my lips. "I'm sorry this happened on your first day as Mrs. Shelby."
"It's not your fault, Tommy."
As the announcer allowed everyone to join the dance, Tommy was about to leave.
We exchanged a kiss. "Stay safe, and smoke less, Tommy."
"You too."
I watched his solitary figure with worry.
I wanted to advise him to stop because once we entered the game of power, there was no turning back. We'd become pawns, climbing the peaks of power to survive. But I didn't want to worry him, disturb his thoughts.
I'll be with him. Even if hell awaits, I'll jump with him.
This is why I chose Mei Carlton and Edward Collins as our children's godparents—to protect Charlie if anything happened to us. "It's over, right?"
I hugged Tommy from behind; he covered my hands with his.
"Yes."
I wanted to ask about Churchill and the king's stance, what kind of business they were getting into, and the possibility of us extricating ourselves from the political mess afterward. But what came out of my mouth was different.
"So, it's finally our wedding night, right?"
When he entered my body, I could see his face clearly. His blue eyes were filled with apologies and tenderness. I raised my hand, touching his face. He must be tired, planning and worrying. There were traces of white hair at his temples. He's only 31...
He's tired enough. Let's talk about tomorrow another day.
I leaned back, kissing him.
"You've worked hard, my husband."
I held Charlie, watching Tommy and them leave at the door.
"Say goodbye to Dad, Charlie." I waved Charlie's chubby little hand. "And Uncle Arthur, Uncle John, and Aunt Polly."
"No need to wait for me recently; get some rest early." Tommy kissed me, patting our son's head.
I didn't expect to end up being a housewife so similar to my mother.
Tommy was determined not to involve me in their illicit income, and he kept political matters from me. With Charlie being our only child and a target for many, I couldn't trust a nearly stranger to care for him.
I wanted to work alongside my husband, manage the business, negotiate with politicians. But for now, my role was to provide a stable rear, ensuring he had no worries.
Looking at the mountain of letters on the desk, remembering last night, Tommy rejected my request to join the company. He wanted me to run the Shelby Charity Foundation.
"Tommy, you know I want to help..."
"Building the Shelby Charity Foundation is a huge help, my dear."
"You can assign the legitimate business to Michael, or Finn, or ask Ada to come back..."
"Dani," he cupped my face, looking into my eyes, "if our son ever wonders about our work, let him despise me alone."
"You're a Baroness in the clear, the perfect mother for our child. Leave all the troubles to me. If I'm not around..."
I quickly covered his mouth. "Don't talk nonsense on such a joyous day."
"You go back to London or Yorkshire, live a clean life with Charles." Tommy removed my hand, gently kissing it.
"You won't... we're going to live a long life together, remember? You'll be fine, nothing will happen..."
He just looked at me.
We were both afraid of death because it was within reach now. It was real, so it was terrifying.
Desperately, I thought.
John has stirred up trouble with the Italians.
Tommy didn't tell me, so I pretended not to know. But, in reality, I have my own sources in both Birmingham and London, providing information about politics, social affairs, and "business."
"How was your day?" Tommy, unusually home early, lay on my lap, eyes closed, enjoying my massage.
"Not too bad. Charlie was well-behaved today." I raised an eyebrow, even though he couldn't see. "Oh, I think we can make some changes to our courtyard. I want to plant a rose garden and set up a swing. The charity event had a good response; everyone I wrote to replied." Well, isn't that normal? Tommy rules Birmingham, and I'm the Baroness from London. A powerful alliance, making the Shelbys the most sought-after.
"A busy day, huh?" Tommy sat up. "To reward your hard work, my dear, close your eyes."
"Oh, come on! After all these years, you still come up with these odd surprises." I said it, but I obediently closed my eyes.
"Just because we've been married for ages doesn't mean we don't need surprises, Shelby. Okay, open your eyes."
Before me lay a Tanzanite necklace, a large uncut Tanzanite hanging beneath a diamond necklace.
"Where did you get this?" I'd never had such jewelry before. Usually, I carefully cut gemstones into beautiful patterns and set them in gold or silver grooves. All the diamonds on my most precious diamond necklace were cut from a large diamond.
"You can wear it to the charity dinner." Tommy embraced me from behind.
"Charity event? Tommy, this is too grand." I turned to him, smiling, then looked down at the gem on my neck. It looks like a miner's windfall... but it's really beautiful.
"This is damn Birmingham, Dani. Only those unfortunate folks care about taste. When meeting the king, I won't let you look like a nouveau riche."
"What should I give you in return, Tommy?" I pushed him onto the couch, then pinned him down, fingers circling his abdomen. I watched the movement of his Adam's apple with satisfaction.
He glanced at my chest, not with good intentions. "Anything will do."
The next day, Tommy pulled me out of bed.
"I'm tired..." I waved my hand with my eyes closed. "Don't bother me."
But he persistently woke me up. "Aren't you going to work?" I sat on the bed, looking at him gloomily with disheveled hair.
"I'm off today, accompanying you and Charlie."
"You don't have to..."
"I know you won't be a resentful wife, I know you won't blame me, you can handle Charlie alone..." Tommy held my face, "but I need to do this. I am your husband, Charlie's father, and this is what a husband and father should do, right?"
"..."
It made me uncomfortable. Tommy's love for me was always silent, seen in the details. Now it's like a last-minute request before death.
"Tommy," I stopped him, and he turned. "What's wrong?"
"I won't let you die. I swear, we can start over from scratch if necessary." I hope he lets go of this matter.
I'm serious. If Churchill or others dare to harm Tommy, with my own strength, I can save him. As long as he's alive, there's hope, and we can start over from scratch.
His gaze softened. "I believe you, Dani, I believe."
... He doesn't believe, he's just comforting me.
"The police from London came to the office and took Tommy away?"
"Tommy said it was the Russians." Although Tommy warned John not to call me, he still did.
"... Tommy will come back, don't worry."
It's just a threat. They'll release my husband; they still need him to work for them.
After hanging up with John, I called Churchill.
For Tommy and me, as long as there is no danger to life, doing business with anyone is no different. We don't care about each other's identity. But the king, and Churchill, are different. They staunchly oppose the Bolsheviks. Besides fearing their political system collapsing like Russia's, they don't want a government with different demands to exist. In the recent war, Russia and Britain stood together. If another war broke out, no one knew if today's Russia would stand opposite Britain.
But these things can't be known to the public. So they found Tommy, wanted him to act secretly.
Arms, or money. I lean more towards the former.
Just like what Tommy did before, rob arms, then sell them.
Even though I've always thought my sister-in-law Linda is a bit of a charlatan, she said one thing right, "Devil's work is done in the dark." Doing things in the dark means safety can't be guaranteed. You can kill in the dark, and someone might be waiting to kill you from behind.
"Madam, young master Charles is looking for you again." Jenny's appearance interrupted my thoughts.
I followed her to Charles's nursery, picked him up, and soothed him. Charles's pillows and blankets were all wrinkled by his fussiness. I handed my son to the maid, started tidying the bed, and unexpectedly found a piece of paper. I picked it up, read the words on it, and felt my blood freeze.
It was a card from the crematorium, with "Rest in peace, Charles Shelby" written on the back.
Tommy came back, rushing into Charles's bedroom.
I followed him, standing by his side.
"Are you looking for this?" I handed him the note I found this afternoon. "We are being watched, Tommy."
"They threatened my son, Tommy. To be honest, Tommy, if I could, I really want to kill them all. Damn Russians, monarchists, Russo-British War." I leaned on Charles's small bed, looking out of the window, softly speaking. "What a nonsense about restoring the monarchy, and they have to resort to threatening a child. Restore? Hmph..."
"Nothing will happen." Tommy hugged me.
They know each other, and I think I know where the gem on my neck came from.
"Your lady is beautiful, just like the gem on her neck."
"Thank you." I smiled confidently, accepting the Duchess's ambiguous compliment. I'm not the delicate rose protected so well by Tommy. She doesn't even know me but wants to provoke me.
Rest assured, as long as I'm alive, Thomas Shelby won't sleep with you. He only loves me.
Tommy tried to get me away, called Ada to take me, and I obediently went elsewhere to talk to others.
"You have to take off the necklace." Tommy suddenly said to me.
"Why?" I stared at him.
It's not that I'm unwilling, but this big gemstone disappearing from my neck will surely cause endless inquiries. I hate trouble.
But he insisted.
"Okay, if it makes you feel better." I lowered my head, letting him help me take off the necklace.
"I just want you safe, Dani. I need you." Tommy kept using sweet words to comfort me.
"I'm not angry, dear," I kissed his lips, "I know... I know, Mr. Shelby, all I ask for is
this." That we all live peacefully.
Unconsciously, people in the hall are almost gone.
Suddenly, a waiter shouted, "For Arthur!" Holding a gun, he aimed at Tommy. Arthur lunged, but the man still fired.
It can't be Tommy! No...
After the gunshot, I lay in Tommy's arms with one hand covering my bloody shoulder.
"Tommy, it hurts... Tommy... hurts..." I smelled the gunpowder in the air, along with the scent of blood, mixed with the perfume on my body, Tommy's tobacco, champagne, and floral scents.
"Tommy..." I felt my eyelids heavy...
You have to live well; this family needs you...
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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 17 - Wedding
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May 1923, Birmingham
The air was filled with a mixture of anticipation and tension as the day of our wedding arrived. The Shelby estate buzzed with activity, preparing for an event that felt both surreal and long-awaited. I stood in front of the mirror, my reflection adorned in a gown of ivory silk that seemed to shimmer with its own ethereal glow. The delicate lace and intricate beadwork traced patterns across the fabric, and the long train whispered promises of a future intertwined.
My heart fluttered with nerves and excitement, the weight of the moment settling on my shoulders like a fine mist. The soft strains of a violin drifted through the air, played by a talented musician Tommy had insisted on hiring for the occasion.
As I made my way down the grand staircase, escorted by my father, the world outside seemed to fade away. I focused on the familiar faces of family and friends gathered in the opulent hall, but my eyes sought out only one—Tommy, waiting at the altar.
The ceremony was a blend of tradition and Shelby pragmatism. A few heartfelt words were exchanged, promises made, and rings placed on fingers. Tommy's eyes never left mine, and in that moment, I felt a profound connection that transcended the chaos of our world.
The celebration that followed was a whirlwind of laughter, music, and dancing. The Shelby brothers, clad in their sharp suits, toasted to love and family. The atmosphere was charged with an electric energy, a rare moment of respite from the usual tensions that defined our lives.
Under the soft glow of twinkling fairy lights, Tommy and I shared our first dance. The world disappeared as we moved together, and in that embrace, I found solace. The gravity of our choices, the struggles we faced, all melted away in the warmth of his arms.
As the night wore on, the revelry continued. The Shelby estate, usually shrouded in shadows, was transformed into a haven of joy. Friends and family celebrated our union, casting aside the burdens of their daily lives, if only for a fleeting moment.
In the quiet moments that followed, as we stole away from the festivities, Tommy held me close. His eyes spoke volumes, and in the soft candlelight, I saw a mix of vulnerability and determination. We were bound together, not just by vows exchanged, but by the shared journey that lay ahead—a journey into the heart of the Shelby legacy.
And as we navigated the tumultuous path that awaited us, I clung to the belief that love, no matter how unconventional, would be our anchor in the storm.
The night deepened, and the festivities gradually quieted down. Tommy and I stole away to a secluded corner of the estate, where a quiet garden bathed in moonlight awaited. The air was crisp, and the fragrance of night-blooming flowers mingled with the faint echoes of celebration.
We sat on a bench, hand in hand, the weight of the day finally settling in. The echoes of laughter and music served as a distant backdrop to our private moment. Tommy's gaze, intense and tender, held mine captive. His fingers traced absent patterns on my palm, and in that silence, a silent understanding passed between us.
"You know, this isn't the life I imagined," I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper. "But somehow, it feels right."
Tommy nodded, his eyes reflecting a myriad of emotions. "We're not like other couples, love. We don't live in a fairy tale, but we make our own rules."
As we shared dreams and fears, the vulnerability beneath Tommy's tough exterior revealed itself. The burden of responsibility, the constant dance with danger, and the unspoken sacrifices—all laid bare in the quiet garden. Yet, despite the shadows that loomed, there was an unspoken promise in his eyes—a promise that we would face it all together.
In that moment, the moonlight caught the glint of the wedding band on my finger, a symbol of an unconventional love story. We spoke of the future, of building something that would outlast the chaos of our present. The garden, witness to our whispered confessions, held a sense of serenity, a contrast to the tempestuous world beyond.
As the first light of dawn painted the sky, we rose from the bench, hand in hand. The night had woven a tapestry of memories, and we emerged from it with a newfound understanding. The echoes of our vows, spoken amidst the opulence and shadows, resonated in the quiet morning.
We walked back to the estate, where the residue of the celebration clung to the air like a bittersweet perfume. The Shelby brothers, having weathered their own trials, greeted us with knowing glances. The events of the night had forged bonds that ran deeper than blood—a testament to the strength of family in the face of adversity.
And so, as the sun broke over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the Shelby estate, I knew that our journey had only just begun. Hand in hand, Tommy and I faced the dawn, ready to navigate the uncertain path that awaited—a path illuminated by the unconventional love that had bound us together against all odds.
Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Life in the Shelby estate settled into a delicate routine, punctuated by the ebb and flow of Tommy's tumultuous business ventures. The wedding, a distant memory, lingered in the tapestry of our shared history, a beacon of strength during the storm.
Tommy's days were consumed by the intricacies of the Shelby empire, a labyrinth of alliances and betrayals. The political chessboard extended far beyond Birmingham, and every move had consequences that rippled through our lives. My role evolved into a delicate dance—part confidante, part anchor—navigating the shifting tides of power alongside the man I had chosen to stand by.
Nights brought stolen moments of respite. The estate, bathed in the soft glow of lamplight, became a sanctuary. Amidst the grandeur of the Shelby mansion, there were quiet corners where the weight of the world could be momentarily set aside. The aroma of Earl Grey tea lingered in the air as we shared stolen glances and whispered conversations.
As winter relinquished its grip, spring ushered in a renewed sense of hope. The sprawling gardens, once witness to our private confessions, burst into a riot of colors. It was in those gardens that Tommy, a man of few words, found solace amidst the blossoms and shadows.
Our love story, unconventional as it was, unfolded against the backdrop of a city steeped in history and turmoil. Birmingham, with its smoke-stained skies and cobblestone streets, mirrored the complexities of our own journey. The Shelby name, once synonymous with infamy, began to carry a weight of its own—a legacy we were tasked with shaping.
Amidst the chaos, there were stolen moments of joy. Our laughter echoed through the halls of the estate, a defiance against the storms that threatened to engulf us. Family gatherings, both celebratory and somber, became the cornerstone of our existence. The Shelby brothers, bound by blood and shared trials, forged a camaraderie that withstood the test of time.
In the quiet of our shared quarters, I often caught Tommy stealing glances at our unborn child. The weight of his legacy bore down on him, but in those moments, vulnerability softened the edges of the man who bore the Shelby name. Parenthood, a realm uncharted and unfamiliar, loomed on the horizon.
As the seasons cycled through their eternal dance, I found solace in the constants that anchored our lives. The quiet strength of Arthur, the enigmatic resilience of Polly, and the unspoken bonds that tied us together—the Shelby family, a tapestry woven with threads of loyalty and strife.
And so, as the shadows of Birmingham stretched across the cobbled streets, we faced the future with a quiet determination. Hand in hand, we ventured into the unknown, guided by the unconventional love that had withstood the tests of time, a love that dared to defy the expectations of a world that reveled in chaos.
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irenethewoman · 6 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 16 - Dead End
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October 1922, London
Although it's only been a month, and it's not obvious yet, my pregnancy symptoms are intense—fatigue, sleepiness, vomiting, dizziness, and more.
"I finally cured my insomnia," I wiped my mouth, self-mockingly.
Now, I spend most of my days sleeping, unable to muster the energy to help Tommy manage the business. Tommy no longer invites anyone to our home, including his brothers. His dealings with Miss Carlton are also handled by him. We keep it a secret from everyone, but I feel like he wishes he could keep me in his coat pocket all the time to feel secure.
"If it's a boy," on an afternoon when I rarely sleep, I touched my flat belly and discussed names with the child's father, "I want to name him Thomas. Little Thomas Shelby."
"Charles," Tommy sat next to me. "Use your father's name, my dear."
"Hey! I'm the one giving birth to the child, and I should decide his name!" I protested with a frown.
I know that even though Tommy is making a lot of money now, even though he's doing well in London, even though his fiancée and the mother of his child are a baroness from London, he still feels inferior about his work. He wants to wash away all of it, to be a respectable and legitimate businessman like old Barton, openly discussing his business with pride. But he can't. All he can do is pave a path for his descendants to escape all the dirty things he has done, even if it means bearing all the sins himself.
He envies his father-in-law. The Turner family's black hair is said to be because we have Roman blood from the commander Agricola. My father, Charles Turner, has a noble title that has been passed down for over a hundred years, is wealthy, and has received excellent elite education. More importantly, he has a decent and legitimate job. Tommy hopes his son will become such a man.
But I want to tell him it's not like that. Thomas Shelby is the hero in my heart. He defended us in the war, he is the first-generation head of the Shelby family, the founder of Shelby Limited. He is my child's father, the legal husband of Lady Turner. He is my little prince.
"Use your father's name, my dear," Tommy kissed my pouted lips. "I hope he becomes a man like your father, upright and open about his business."
… I just knew.
"I've never seen him, Diana. Not only did he marry his precious daughter without his consent, but he also unexpectedly impregnated her before marriage," Tommy held me, "consider this my apology, gratitude, and respect to him."
In the end, we both had to compromise.
"…Then the middle name will be Thomas."
"…Okay."
As my belly slowly swelled, the long and annoying morning sickness finally passed. London was already in winter, and everyone knew that Lady Turner was delicate, afraid of the cold, and disliked fog and smog. She was lazy in winter and rarely invited me as a guest or visited me. I enjoyed the leisurely time, conveniently hiding the fact that I was three months pregnant.
Arthur arrived in London and took over the Eden Club, a piece of news Tommy told me after returning home.
I know Tommy feels self-conscious about his work, despite earning a lot of money now, despite his success in London, despite his fiancée and the mother of his child being a baroness from London. Even though he has never denied his Romani heritage, he still feels inferior because of his past ruthless actions. He wants to wash away all of it, to be a respectable and legitimate businessman like old Barton, openly discussing his business with pride. But he can't. All he can do is pave a path for his descendants to escape all the dirty things he has done, even if it means bearing all the sins himself.
He envies his father-in-law. The Turner family's black hair is said to be because we have Roman blood from the commander Agricola. My father, Charles Turner, has a noble title that has been passed down for over a hundred years, is wealthy, and has received excellent elite education. More importantly, he has a decent and legitimate job. Tommy hopes his son will become such a man.
But I want to tell him it's not like that. Thomas Shelby is the hero in my heart. He defended us in the war, he is the first-generation head of the Shelby family, the founder of Shelby Limited. He is my child's father, the legal husband of Lady Turner. He is my little prince.
"Use your father's name, my dear," Tommy kissed my pouted lips. "I hope he becomes a man like your father, upright and open about his business."
… I just knew.
"I've never seen him, Diana. Not only did he marry his precious daughter without his consent, but he also unexpectedly impregnated her before marriage," Tommy held me, "consider this my apology, gratitude, and respect to him."
In the end, we both had to compromise.
"…Then the middle name will be Thomas."
"…Okay."
As my belly slowly swelled, the long and annoying morning sickness finally passed. London was
already in winter, and everyone knew that Lady Turner was delicate, afraid of the cold, and disliked fog and smog. She was lazy in winter and rarely invited me as a guest or visited me. I enjoyed the leisurely time, conveniently hiding the fact that I was three months pregnant.
Arthur arrived in London and took over the Eden Club, a piece of news Tommy told me after returning home.
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 15 - Cozy
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London, March 1922 Tommy called me when he got back to Birmingham. He said that although he was beaten, it was nothing serious and I didn’t need to worry… I held the phone and rolled my eyes. Believe it or not, you are a big liar. I muttered in my mind. We two fools always like to hide our true situation in front of each other, report good things but not bad things, and then continue to talk in silence Pay for each other.
"I may have found Polly's son, Tommy." I looked at the piece of paper in my hand. This was the Senate President I sponsored to help me. Got it. "Unfortunately, I haven't found Polly's daughter yet, I guess, um…she…but I'll keep looking of. " I held Tommy's arm and walked down the country road. "We haven't walked together like this for a long time." I sighed. I'm feeling suffocated in London these days. "here It looks good. We can buy a house in the countryside to retire in the future. "
"I have to buy another manor. You don't know. Turner Manor is in Yorkshire. It's as cold as a ghost house in the winter. I'll watch the cows." The house in Jin is pretty good. Imagine that, Tommy! Living in the countryside, not far from the city, the air is fresh and life is comfortable. Has its own flower field and horse farm. In the spring we can ride horses through the flowers. Not only can I ride a horse, I can also ride a horse. As for hunting, I can take our children hunting…" Tommy just listened seriously as I chattered about my wonderful ideas for the future.
I just leaned against the fence in the back and watched Tommy negotiate with the boy's foster mother and listened to his nonsense. He is the person responsible for the agency in the Birdsley parish of Birmingham City Council. The adoptive mother, Mrs. Johnson, must have loved the child very much and treated him like her own son. If it weren't for Polly, I couldn't bear to separate the mother and son. But this kid at least has the right to know the truth, right? But I couldn't help but wince when I heard Mrs. Johnson say that Polly smoked opium and tortured and beat her son. eyebrow. I can understand her feelings, but if she really said that to this child, it would be really vicious.
Mothers love their children, and most of them spoil their children - my brother ended up being the one with De Xing and me. It cannot be said that his mother's doting on him in his early years was completely irrelevant. We had been discussing for too long outside the yard, and Mrs. Johnson’s panicked look also caught the boy’s attention, and he turned to me.
They come over. "Your real name is Michael Gray, and your biological mother wants to meet you. Her address is written on the back of this business card. She wants to talk to you. " The boy looked first at Tommy and then at me, with the look of a boy who had just graduated from Cambridge and entered the London social scene. My head is blue, just like the look in Tommy's eyes when they saw me for the first time. I have seen this kind of stunning look too many times. But it seems a little different…
His eyes slid from my face to my ordinary clothes, and finally landed on my hands. The rich and powerful in London know that Turner The baroness's favorite jewelry is the ocean blue diamond ring given to her by her fiancé Thomas Shelby, which she will never leave. 6 carats The aquamarine is dazzling and dazzling under the embellishment of diamonds. I think the kid has made plans. When I got home, I sat on the sofa in a daze. This boy will definitely identify his biological mother - because of Tommy's clothes today and the car and the diamond on my hand. Precepts can prove to him the wealth level of this new family. But what if he knows what we do? Can he still accept his biological mother? If you accept it again For what reason? If it was because of money, wouldn't it be even more terrifying… "I'm in a daze again." Tommy always liked to just wrap a towel around his waist after taking a shower. He stood behind me with his bare chest and kissed my neck son. This makes me feel very itchy, but he always said that my neck is as graceful as a swan - "It is a piece of art." Taste, dear. "He said while kissing me at the time. "I wanted him to accept Polly, but I didn't want him to." I looked up, trying to get support and recognition from Tommy's eyes. "It's human nature to yearn for better living conditions." Tommy tried to comfort me, but I always felt that Twist. But I don't want to speak anymore. While Tommy didn't draw any conclusions, we all knew Michael was going to return to Polly. The matter is settled. I didn't want my words to drive a wedge between Tommy and his new cousin. Big deal I'll just pay more attention in the future.
Maybe it’s because I’ve never had to worry about food and clothing since I was a child, but I couldn’t understand that boy’s straightforward and passionate desire for fancy cars and fancy clothes. he I have certainly never experienced hunger or abuse in this home. As long as the residents of Birmingham have his living conditions, they also Not going to be a prostitute, a gangster, or go on strike. Tommy sensed that I was feeling down and used himself to please me. I lay under him obediently, following his movements Breathing and emotional. "I miss you……" "Me too, Tommy…"
But actually he didn't have to do that. I will continue to support every decision he makes. He is my fiancé, the man I know I want to spend the rest of my life with. We will have quarrels and conflicts, but love binds us together and we will always be one. We want to meet Supporting each other throughout life. Afterwards, we lay together and talked about politics as usual. "I wrote to Mr. Churchill," he said, before There was a cigarette stuffed in his mouth. I took the cigarette away from his mouth and stared blankly at the thing in my hand.
To be honest, I kind of want to blame him for killing him first and telling him later. For the greater good, now I have to stay with Churchill A neutral attitude with Tommy won't help Tommy much, but at least it will allow me to maintain my current political status. This will prevent me from losing my right to speak in London in the future. "What's wrong?" He hugged me, turned over, and faced me. "Tommy, you can't trust anyone. Whether it's Mr. Campbell or Mr. Churchill, especially Churchill, he's a Politician, Tommy. I spent the first fifteen years of my life surrounded by politicians, I still support them, I care about them Too understanding. " I was a little incoherent and wanted to explain it to him as soon as possible, but the more I talked, the less I understood. "They're a bunch of people… You can't believe any of the promises and benefits they give, you know, you've got to be on your toes all the time.
You are nothing in their eyes, just a knife that can be replaced at any time. As long as they think you are disobedient, Or if you know too much about dealing with them, they will get rid of you without hesitation. Kill the donkey, you know? Borrow the knife, huh, huh…" Tommy silenced my chattering mouth with a kiss. "I know, honey." Our foreheads touched. Although I didn't say it explicitly, I felt that his blue eyes saw my concerns, and then he didn't blame me. Generous and gentle.
But his understanding only made me feel uncomfortable and blamed myself. I separated from him and returned to London in order to be able to help him more; now that I am a baroness, I can do nothing to help him. What he can do for him is not as much as Liz Stark. I could only stay in London, watching Tommy's shoulder The burden is getting heavier. I don’t know much about the mission Churchill assigned Tommy, but he did so for different reasons. They all clearly didn't want me to know. Arthur's emotions are in trouble again. How can such a person control the overall situation? return
There is Polly’s son and daughter, and I should have been the one to tell Polly about these things… But now, apart from my body, what else can I use to prove my love for him… "I love you, Tommy, I love you…" "You will never be dispensable, Diana. You will be Mrs. Shelby. I never love you because You are useful. "Half asleep and half awake, I heard Tommy whispering in my ear. My eyelids were so sleepy that I couldn't open them. Now, I fall asleep quickly only in his arms… I turned over and arched into his arms. "I love you, Tommy…"
"2050 guineas? What did you buy?" Thomas Shelby never bargained, and this time he didn’t bring enough money to the auction house, so he directly filled in my address for credit. he There is no need to tell me in this way, I am very useful… I took out 2,200 pounds directly from the drawer. "With the remaining money, I will buy some news. Is there anything else interesting today?" A mysterious lady bids for Tommy, and Sabi's men want to assassinate Tommy but are beaten to a bloody pulp by Arthur. I took out another 300 pounds and pushed it to the people at the auction together with the previous coins. "Please send someone to kill that assassin.
Send him to Scotland Yard, saying he attempted to assassinate Baroness Turner's fiancé. Well… remember to send him to Green Prison. One hundred pounds is the management fee, and the rest is your extra income. Please come to my house as compensation. " The child arranged by Tommy was brutally killed by Sabi's people in Green Prison, and then Tommy arranged to shave the child. The knife gang members went to jail. This happens to be a good opportunity for revenge. I am a very vengeful person. I still remember that
That night Sabi's men pointed their guns at me. I also remember that I seemed to have said that I would exchange Sabi's fingers for Tommy's. Ya… this time it was his subordinates, next time it will be his turn. "Cut off his little finger. Which hand? Cut off whichever hand he uses to hold a gun." "Why?" I sneered into the phone, "Sir, if this person ever broke into your house and pointed a gun at You, I'm afraid now it's not just as simple as cutting off your little finger. " Tommy's expansion plan is going very smoothly, his methods are clever and ruthless, and he can't find a single fault on the surface, but secretly he has me.
political umbrella. Sabiri could only send more people to monitor me, seeing me as a breakthrough to defeat Tommy. mouth. But whatever he did, Tommy came to London to spend more time with me, and sometimes he would bring John and the others to eat and drink. Drink, or entertain his other "friends." "Are you so eager to let them see Mrs. Shelby in advance?" I sat in front of the mirror, smiled and put on Jane's clothes. Bead earrings. "Who is our distinguished guest today, Mr. Shelby?" "Miss May Carleton." He played with my hair. "…Ha, another ignorant girl who was fascinated by Mr. Shelby?" I'm a little jealous. Good guy, Thomas actually invited people to his home.
Thomas accompanied me to a banquet half a month ago, and then Baroness Turner’s handsome fiancé became a Londoner. A celebrity in the social scene. Even if he is not a politician or a nobleman, those aristocratic ladies and young women think that He is just an ordinary young businessman, mysterious, handsome and generous. But these days, it smells like ink A bulging money bag is much more attractive than an old manor with a musty smell. Although the social season is over, the holidays If I break up with Tommy tonight, the lady who comes to sell her daughter to him early tomorrow morning will be able to break through his door. sa Billy should hire them. I felt like I had just eaten a big pot of freshly grown wild cherries. My heart felt sour and bitter, and I couldn't help but look at him sideways. Tommy came up behind me and put the diamond necklace around my neck. He pressed my shoulders and looked at me in the mirror I. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you in advance. Miss Carlton is very influential in the Jockey Club."
"No sex trade?" I looked back at him. "No sex trade, Mrs. Shelby." He leaned down and kissed me. Miss Carlton is not as beautiful as I thought. Even after being carefully combed, her hair is still as wooly as straw Rough, her bright brown eyes were as watery as a horse's. She looks like Tommy spent a fortune at auction The beautiful little mare I bought for the price—I don’t know why this metaphor came to me. But I have to say, even though it was only at first sight, I quite liked her. She is different from those shallow and squeamish noble ladies. At the same time, maybe it’s the temperament brought up by the old aristocrats, maybe it’s the gentle strong aura in her body, let me know
The son took a liking to her. When we meet our opponents in chess, we cherish each other. I haven't felt this way since I came back from Berlin when I was 10 years old. We were more communicating at the dinner table, talking about horses, hunting, men, how to manage industries, and the latest politics. policies and the politicians who make them. Tommy couldn't get a word in, and he just kept refilling our glasses from time to time. I drained my glass of rum before enjoying dessert. I think my face should be a little red, but who cares? I It’s been a long time since I’ve had this kind of joy of meeting a close friend.
I took a spoonful of the brownie and felt sick when I brought it to my mouth. I thought it was because of drinking. for Maintaining the Baroness's demeanor, I tried to remain calm, restrain my body's reaction, and stay away from the plate of delicate snacks. Tommy silently handed me his untouched plate. He never likes desserts, so he uses dark chocolate imported from Belgium The brownies made with strength were one of the rare things he could accept. I dug in another spoonful, which only made me feel worse.
"Sorry, I'm sorry." After saying that, I quickly covered my mouth and rushed to the toilet. I almost threw up my entire dinner. I feel dizzy and groggy, and I can only stand steady by holding on to the sink. "What's wrong?" Tommy opened the door, supported me, and let me lean against him. "I don't know…" Why does he smell so strange tonight…
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 14 - Churchill
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February 1922 London Tommy and his brothers stayed at my house for one night and then left. After I got up, I took care of some trivial matters and then left To Churchill's office. His appointment was at the Ritz, but I wanted to try my luck at his office. "Wow."
Seeing the woman taking off her clothes in his office, I just raised my eyebrows and closed the door. "Please take a seat, Madam Baroness. Although if I remember correctly, I remember that our meeting should be at the Ritz Hotel." I sat aside and calmly took a sip of the tea brought by the secretary. "The tea is very fragrant." In front of this old man like him, I'm too lazy to pretend.
He sketched his nude and I drank my tea. I also randomly picked out a book from his bookshelf and flipped through it. random The ground was just like it had been in my father's office. I've been waiting for a long time, but today's trip did not disappoint me. "Oh, God!" It's Campbell.
Hearing the familiar voice, I raised my head, supported my chin with one hand, and looked at him. Campbell saw Mr Churchill naked After taking the mannequin, he immediately lowered his head and didn't even see me sitting on the side. "Forgive me, sir, but your secretary doesn't seem to be here." In front of Mr. Churchill, Campbell's words sounded like
Like a complaining child. Thinking of this, I laughed out loud. Mr. Churchill looked over. "Sorry, sir." I said, but still with a smile on my face, "But it's funny, isn't it?
Everyone wants to have lunch. " Campbell visibly stiffened when he heard my voice. He wanted to turn around to confirm my identity, but was afraid of seeing the model's appearance. It looks very funny. I smiled even brighter. It wasn't until he found the right spot, one where he could see Mr. Churchill but avoid the model, that he saw Me on the side.
I looked at his surprised expression. He would never have imagined that I was negotiating a deal with him in a garage in Birmingham. After winning the inheritance, he became the biggest winner and qualified to appear in the office of his immediate boss. To be honest, I really wanted to show off my power and make myself look like a temptress in troubled times, so as to relieve my anger. "This is Baroness Turner."
I stood up and gave him my hand. Before he could react, he withdrew his hand and sat back gracefully. "Ireland It’s not a land of etiquette, is it? " Churchill glanced at me and told me not to go too far, but I just smiled. I am one of the important patrons of the Conservative Party One, he would not make me unhappy, at most he would give me a small warning like just now. Although Churchill appeared on the surface, he still
He is from the Liberal Party, but I know his little calculations - after all, he has also betrayed the Conservative Party. "What's so urgent? It's more important than lunch." Churchill spoke up to help Campbell. Campbell looked at me, and I stared back at him, not to be outdone. Very good, even if Churchill immediately asks me to leave now, with his look, I have already confirmed my guess. Unfortunately, we are in big trouble.
"Baroness Turner is an important patron of ours. As you can see, she is a young, wealthy, single woman who is looking for A husband worthy of her. " I frowned as I listened to Churchill's words. What does he mean? His wife is not worthy of his lordship! I They are indeed considered in-laws, but that is also the business of George I. When will my wedding turn get this eight pole? Are you worried about your relatives who can’t even afford a wife? "Sir, our manpower in Birmingham has passed the first round of testing with flying colors."
Campbell looked at me, and I took a sip of tea with a normal expression, pretending that I knew nothing. They talked openly about killing donkeys in front of me, as if they thought women should not understand these things. "To put pressure on a guy on a mission like this, you have to know his weaknesses. And I know this guy's weaknesses very well. What is it. "Campbell looked at me maliciously. As it happened, I also knew Tommy's weaknesses: his family, and me as his fiancée.
The next lunch, I faced Churchill and braced myself, pretending to be my true feelings. They just talked for a long time without mentioning the name Thomas Shelby, and Churchill never mentioned that I had been to Birmingham.
John, met Campbell, and my relationship with Tommy. I think I understand what he means. He will help me hide my past, and I can use this to choose a husband from the upper class; but as a In exchange, he asked me to give up Tommy and let them use my lover as a knife.
I was worried about Tommy and furious. Even when I got home, I was still thinking about countermeasures. This is simply a dead end! We can get around Campbell and get a little bit of life. But if you can get around that hypocrite Campbell, you have to deal with Shangqiu. Gill is such a villain, no one is good at all. If Churchill could have chosen Tommy for If we get rid of Campbell, he can get rid of us for another guy. I kept thinking about it until around two o'clock in the morning before I slowly fell asleep… "You can't come in! This is Baroness Turner's mansion! I'm calling the police!"
I was woken up by the sound downstairs. Since returning to London - apart from sleeping with Tommy yesterday - I've often suffered from insomnia; I sleep very lightly, and the slightest disturbance can wake me up. What's more, now, the sound of breaking porcelain, fighting Sounds, screams… I took out the pistol hidden under the pillow, put a coat on myself and walked out of the bedroom. I stood on the second floor and watched Sabili leading his men to do evil in my house. My concierge lies in the garden and stirs My maid was being pulled by her hair, my housekeeper and other servants were being beaten. On the floor are porcelain and The shards of glass left two more holes in my door. I know this is revenge for Tommy. But I never regret falling in love with him. "Bang!" The pistol was no longer fit for purpose, so I took the shotgun off the wall and fired at one of his men. That person was shot by me , immediately lying on the ground, blood flowing like a river. When they heard the gunshot, they immediately drew their guns and aimed at the direction of the sound.
"You forced your way into my house…and you dared to point a gun at me!" I held the shotgun and yelled at them angrily. "You must make Opposite? ah? ! A group of Italians dared to hold a gun against the baroness whom he personally named in front of the King of England's eyes! war
The war has just ended, are you declaring war with Britain? " The group of people visibly flinched when they heard me carrying out the king. They glanced at Sabi, who was unwilling to give in The ground moved its mouth and spat on my ground. "You are Diana Turner, the gypsy bastard's mistress."
I stood on the second floor, looking down at him with my head held high. "You are that Dago with the big pizza nose." (Note: Dago means Italians and Spaniards are derogatory names, just like Chinaman to us and Nigger to black people. Appear here Only for plot needs) I saw the gunman next to him move, "Shoot! If you dare, shoot in my house! Come on!"
He dares? ! As long as he hits me with this shot tonight, I will be able to seriously injure Sabi tomorrow. a gun In exchange for half of Sabi's property, it was worth it! Although Sabili didn't know that I had set fire to my hands, he also knew the danger of attacking me at this moment. risk. He raised his hand to signal the close guard not to be impulsive, and then threw something at me. "This is a gold tooth dug out of his mouth. I think you must have seen it many times. You must be more familiar with its appearance than I am."
Son, after all he must lick your pussy for many times. " Tommy… I don't have time to care about what nasty things Sabi said to me, I just feel sorry for my Tommy. That must be him living it from Tommy's mouth Digging it up alive…how dare he! But if Sabili thinks that this can make me cower in fear, then he is totally wrong. Maybe he should go to hell and the old bus Let’s have a chat and see the consequences of underestimating me. "I will use your finger to exchange for my fiancé's tooth. We'll see." Sabili just twitched the corner of his mouth in disdain. I felt like my eyes were breathing fire. He may think that Thomas Shelby is an aristocratic lady who is lucky enough to sleep in London, and that I am just a ruthless person. A talkative, incompetent lady. I do what I say. "Now, get out of my house right now! Don't let me say it a second time!"
I raised the gun again, this time I aimed it at Sabi's head. I looked at the mess in silence. "Fortunately, the portraits of my ancestors are fine." I said to myself. "Thankfully I didn't leave dad hanging outside…" "Aunt Dai Ni…" I heard Maria's voice and turned around. She must have been woken up by us. She was only wearing a thin nightgown at the moment. He stood upstairs with bare feet, his hands and feet trembling helplessly. "Did something happen at home…" "It's okay, my dear, go back to sleep." I tried my best to soothe my frozen face and coaxed her gently.
she. "Juana, go and stay with Miss Maria." When Juana came back and told me that Maria had fallen asleep, I turned around. "No need to clean up." I waved my hand and asked the servants to go back and rest. “Jenny, go to the refrigerator and get some ice packs to apply on Face, go to the pharmacy to get some medicine for everyone. Everyone, go and have a rest. Don’t talk about today’s affairs everywhere, you know? this Everyone will receive additional bonuses every month. Okay, let's all go and have a rest. "
I first called Attorney Collins and asked him to come to my house tomorrow morning to discuss important matters. Then I held it from The booklet taken out of the warehouse, compared with the furnishings broken by Sabi, calculated my losses tonight, and the hired secret agents. money from the people who protect Ada. The wool comes from the sheep, and I will ask Sabi to compensate for all these losses! I looked at my hand which had returned to its original state. The hands had recovered from past burns, and the fingers were long and beautiful. The skin is tender and fair.
"Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!" I looked at the extra handprints on my face with satisfaction. The left half of my face has become swollen. My fair face turned red from my own beating It was swollen, and the corners of the mouth were slightly bloody. I was very worried about Tommy's situation. I didn't sleep all night. I just kept looking at the dark circles under my eyes and the wounds on my face, with my hair hanging down. Sitting on the sofa, watching the dawn sun emerge little by little from the wide open door.
Attorney Collins is probably arriving soon. When Edward Collins saw the mess at Turner House, even though he and I had been through a lot together, he was still struck by the sight. I was shocked by the scene in front of me. "Is there a burglar in the house?" "Thieves are looking for money. It's best to keep silent. How can there be blood? Please write a few complaints and lawsuits for me. One copy for "Thailand" Times, one copy to Mr. Brown and Mr. Stuart, and one to Scotland Yard. With a job provided by taxpayers Capital, all the police on King's Road went on strike last night, leaving law-abiding taxpayers to be bullied by London gangsters. Ling. " "…Madam Baroness…"
I raised my head, exposing the clear handprints on my face to his sight, and Edward swallowed the persuasion that came to his lips. He has always been like a relative to me. As long as he sees me being hurt, he will choose to help me. I knew he would give in. Baroness Turner's private residence was forcibly broken into, leaving a mess in front of the entrance door. The handprints on the baroness' haggard handsome face were clear. It can be seen that… this is news that is enough to cause a sensation in London. So what if Sabili controls the police? I am Baroness Turner, the most popular of the social season, and an important figure in the Conservative Party. As one of the patrons, I could change the tide of public opinion in London. Those who either rely on my support or want to become a baroness My husband's politicians are my marionettes, quarreling fiercely in the House of Commons and telling the electorate big questions. lie. They have gained their own interests, and they must protect the interests of their sponsors. This is the law of the jungle in London. Even when facing the police chief, I was still wearing a nightgown, with my hair disheveled, and my face bare, but I slapped my own hand on my face. The seal has long since disappeared. Anyway, they are all Sabili's people, at least they received the benefits from him last night. To them, I'm too lazy to act like a reporter and I Like that in front of funded politicians. Not to mention acting, I didn't even bother to show off, I just turned my back to them and lay down On the sofa, I listened to the policemen's nonsensical nonsense. Just ask, from time to time, “Where were you last night? Why did you fail to protect taxpayer safety?” Complete? ” can be exchanged for a moment of tranquility. They would be silent, and then after a while they would continue to tell me the same nonsense in a condescending tone. talk. Although it made me upset, I just didn't ask them to leave my house. Of course I don't accept their queen. Pao apologizes, but since you have accepted Sabi's money, then come to me and beg for mercy.
In this way they can President, remember, if you see Sapele's pounds in the future, you won't act like a dog that has never seen money. Their masters don't dare to touch me at all, let alone these people. In London, I am still the baroness who controls everything and no one dares to mess with her. Like last year's gossip, I'm Everything was settled quickly. I saw Sabi's public apology letter published in The Times and received the Compensation in pounds sterling. But what about Tommy?
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 13 - Proposal
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In January 1922, Birmingham, the Garrison Pub was bombed. The surroundings plunged into darkness, and the heat from the explosion was extinguished by the drizzling rain. The wind stirred the black veil in front of me, carrying the scent of the bar.
Tommy managed to dismiss the police with the excuse of a gas explosion and some pounds. Polly found some scraps of paper at the entrance.
Green… Ireland…
I frowned, thinking that Finn had become a thing of the past.
"You're going back to London today. I'll have John escort you."
"I'm not leaving. As you said, it's dangerous in London for the Shelby family."
I couldn't leave. I couldn't turn a blind eye to the unknown dangers my little prince would face. And if they dared to bomb the Garrison Pub, why wouldn't they dare for the Shelby mansion?
"Go out without revealing your face, avoid betting stations, avoid dealing with the police, don't disclose your name, use a fake name, and don't flaunt wealth," Tommy instructed before leaving, and I responded adeptly. "Don't worry, little prince."
I adjusted his collar and kissed his lips, speaking a coded language only we understood. "Stay safe, Tommy."
Watching his back, I suddenly felt like an ordinary but loving old couple. After breakfast, a wife bidding farewell to her husband before he left for work.
Then I stayed at home, taking care of the children with Esme. Maria was still the sensible girl who made my heart ache. She got along well with Esme, but I could feel she was more attached to and dependent on me. I understood her; even if a teenager could accept it intellectually, there would still be resistance to a young stepmother—that's why I resisted my father's remarriage at the age of 13, taking on the responsibilities of a lady of the house.
I talked to Thomas about taking Maria to London for a while when things calmed down. She was too tense, much more mature and sensible than Finn, more like an adult. In the mansion, she could be carefree like her peers on King's Road.
"You like your daughter so much… why don't we have one ourselves?" After hearing this, Tommy raised an eyebrow, saying something contradictory.
"You liked John's previous wife, didn't you?" Esme interrupted my contemplation.
I looked at Esme strangely. Even though we both considered me a member of the Shelby family, whether I liked or preferred one over the other… did it matter?
"Yes, Martha was a good person. She was one of the kindest people I've ever met. But I would also like every wife of John and Arthur—as long as they don't betray Tommy or the Shelby name," I answered truthfully.
I thought she heard some gossip, felt that John loved her less than his deceased wife, and added another sentence of advice. "The deceased have passed; never compare yourself to them. You and John have a long future ahead."
She looked at me in silence for a long time. "You really seem like the mistress of a household."
Would she say I seemed more like a politician's wife? My father used to say that before he died.
"Thomas must be eager to marry you. Young, beautiful, wealthy, and many suitors. Even if you chose him, I think he would still feel…"
"What are you trying to say?"
As she spoke, I walked to the opposite side of her and faced her.
She chuckled, as if surprised by my quick reaction. "Thomas expanded to the south for you."
…Oh, I see, she didn't want to expand to the south. Or rather, she was dissatisfied with it.
"Esme, if you have something to say, say it to me, not to others—whether it's Tommy, Polly, or John."
I leaned down, looking into her eyes. I was a head taller, and she was still sitting, so if I leaned down, she would be covered in my shadow. "I don't want you to talk nonsense to anyone, anyone—whether it's Tommy, Polly, or John."
She looked at me in silence for a long time.
"You do look like a mistress of a household."
I raised an eyebrow. "Really?" I thought she might say I looked more like a politician's wife—my father used to say that before he died.
"Thomas must be eager to marry you. Young, beautiful, wealthy, and many suitors. Even if you chose him, I think he would still feel…"
"What are you trying to say?"
As she spoke, I walked to the opposite side of her and faced her.
She chuckled, as if surprised by my quick reaction. "Thomas expanded to the south for you."
…Oh, I see, she didn't want to expand to the south. Or rather, she was dissatisfied with it.
"Esme, if you have something to say, say it to me, not to others—whether it's Tommy, Polly, or John."
I leaned down, looking into her eyes. I was a head taller, and she was still sitting, so if I leaned down, she would be covered in my shadow. "I don't want you to talk nonsense to anyone, anyone—whether it's Tommy, Polly, or John."
She looked at me in silence for a long time.
"You do look like a mistress of a household."
This is John's wife; I can't be too harsh in my words. I tell myself that I'm just pulling her along, hoping she understands. The expansion of Shelby Limited to London is not just because its big boss, Thomas, wants to marry me, the Baroness from London. It's also because London is a bigger market, a fatter piece of meat. We can earn more money, make better connections, and leave this muddy place. We are no longer street thugs in the slums; we are a company!
"Do you know what this is in the army? Undermining morale—a capital offense."
Before the family meeting, Tommy and I found some time in the bedroom. Afterward, we discussed the confusing situation.
While talking to him, I nestled in bed, massaging his shoulders. I omitted the conversation with Esme; I hope she figures it out herself. Heading south to London, we are bound to succeed.
"Did those Irishmen approach you for a job? Or even kidnap you!" I frowned. We've always kept to our own, so why?
"Our old friend has risen in rank. Still in charge of Irish affairs." He held my hand and turned his head. "Inspector Campbell…"
"So, they're working together."
This is dangerous; Campbell is a ruthless politician, utterly unscrupulous. Cooperating with him requires careful consideration, or it could end in disaster.
And… Campbell is directly subordinate to Churchill, Mr. Churchill, who has been the Minister of Colonial Affairs and also the Air Minister since last year, initiating negotiations with the Irish Sinn Féin party. It's hard to say whether what we're facing is part of a higher-level arrangement.
"Mr. Churchill sent me a telegram," I leaned on his shoulder, embracing his strong waist, "inviting me to lunch at the Leeds Hotel. The day after tomorrow."
"I'm heading back tomorrow, Tommy." I lay on his lap, lazily saying.
"Who else but a Londoner?"
When I entered the meeting room with Tommy, Esme and John were very excited, somewhat angry. It seemed they easily saw through the truth, while the rest of us turned a blind eye.
"This is a company that advocates gender equality." Tommy said. —Well, Tommy and I are quite equal, except for what happened just now on the bed.
John looked at me, trying to find Tommy's true feelings from my face. I lowered my eyes, just quietly pouring myself a glass of whiskey.
John was overly worried. Even if Esme repeated the nonsense she told me that day, Tommy wouldn't fall for her.
"I have no blood ties to this family. But perhaps, precisely because I am not one of them, I can see things from a different perspective. So let me get straight to the point. As my husband said, Shelby Limited is now developing very successfully. But London… I have relatives in Shepherd's Bush and Paddington, where it's more like a war between armies, with the police involved. There are all sorts of foreigners using bombs, nothing unusual. I have a child, fortunate to inherit the beauty of the Shelby family. I hope John can see him grow up, and I hope that one day, we can live in a place with fresh air and lush trees, raising chickens or something. But London only has smog and trouble, Thomas." She glanced at me, "Oh, and your beauty."
… I knew it. In her heart, Thomas is a selfish, arrogant devil. She really can't compare to Martha.
I handed Tommy the glass in my hand. Lower the fire; I signaled with my eyes.
He tilted his head back, finishing the remaining liquid in the glass.
"First, the pub explosion has nothing to do with London. I will handle the explosion on my own. Secondly, as long as we stay united, there's no need to worry about this business expansion plan. As long as we endure the first few weeks, 90% of our business in London will become legal, and the remaining 10% will be managed by insiders, right, Arthur?"
Now, some people present expressed their reservations. That's good. If any of you do not want to be part of the company's future, please leave through that door immediately. Go feed your chickens. As for those ambitious ones, the expansion process will begin tomorrow."
"Polly's son and daughter?"
Why so sudden…
"I'll keep an eye on it." I nodded at Esme, "If possible, I hope you can inform Tommy again."
"So, goodbye." I hugged Maria's shoulder and walked out on the road back to London.
"Why don't we go with Dad and the others?" Maria, visiting London for the first time, was very excited and a bit nervous.
"Because Tommy's car is too small, and we can't fit." And I wouldn't allow my luggage and a corpse to be together.
"All right, my dear girl. This is a vacation." I embraced her.
"Let's go home first, leave the luggage, and then I'll take you to eat Italian food. After dinner, if you want, we can go to Harrods."
I watched her face light up with a dreamy smile. It's good; she finally looks like a child.
When Tommy and the others opened the back door of 10 King's Road, I heard a noise.
He came again, Tommy Shelby…
Maria, visiting London for the first time, was excited and full of energy. I accompanied her for a day, and now I'm tired and sleepy, but still very happy as we walk from the living room to the staircase. I look at John and Arthur, who are staring at the paintings on the wall and the Chinese porcelain on the cabinet. Their curious expressions make me unable to help but laugh.
"Welcome to the Turner Mansion, boys."
Tommy smoothly brushes past his brothers and walks into my bedroom.
"How did it go?" I help Tommy undress, unable to stifle a yawn. "Sorry, I'm so tired. You guys came too late."
"Maria must have worn you out." After changing into the sleepwear I prepared in advance, Tommy lies down with me on the bed.
"It was a good day," he says, veering off topic.
"It's not all good." Hearing him say this, my heart tightens, and I reach out to check if he's injured.
He grabs my hand, only slowly continuing the next sentence, "Arthur lost a tooth."
"…"
Seeing me in a dazed silence, Tommy laughs like a mischievous child who has succeeded in a prank.
"I want to hire Lizzie Stark as a secretary. Today is a good sign." Tommy kisses me. "I need someone who can turn a blind eye occasionally."
"If she can type and do math, sure." I give him a strange look. I did tell him that I want him to share everything with me, but that doesn't include the choice of his secretary.
"As long as Mrs. Shelby doesn't mind."
I immerse myself in his blue eyes. Mrs. Shelby… what a nice title.
"Mr. Shelby, if you want to win a Baroness, it's not just about the body." I lazily extend my finger, circling it on his chest. "You need a ring to prove your intentions and let all the young people in London know that they've lost, the Baroness has a fiancé."
I'm not short of jewelry.
My mother left me a lot of jewelry, and I also inherited a lot of pounds. Occasionally, I buy some new ones, and those suitors would occasionally spend a lot of money buying good jewelry to please me. But what Tommy gave is different.
"Close your eyes." He coaxes gently.
Before closing my eyes, I see him smile. Tommy's smile is really handsome. Those blue eyes are as gentle as the sky in spring, and this person has softened a lot—the most important thing is, only I have seen this kind of Thomas Shelby.
He should be going to find his clothes and then coming back.
"Open your eyes, Lady Baron."
I saw him holding a deep blue velvet jewelry box. Inside was a sapphire diamond ring. A large sapphire, as clear as Tommy's eyes.
I was stunned; this completely exceeded my imagination. It wasn't until Tommy put the ring on my hand that I realized—it's almost like it was custom-made for my hand!
"…So, you had it prepared in advance?" Clearly, a man who already has jewelry and has won the heart of a woman with jewelry, but why do I always feel like he's turning the tables on me? I still know about Shelby Company's development. This ring looks expensive at first glance. This spendthrift, he only knows how to act up when there's no secretary—but why am I so happy?
"My dear Baroness, you now also have a fiancé."
"So, is this your way of proposing?" I still lovingly gaze at the sparkling ring on my hand.
No flowers, no champagne, no luxurious ballroom, no cheering crowd—just a large diamond ring and my lover… honestly, I'm satisfied.
"Think it's too simple?" Tommy leans on the bed, lazily asking.
"No…" I turn back and kiss his cheek. "Just right."
"I'll be the happiest bride in the world."
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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“ However, wasn't that the way of the world? How could they support such a vast family on meager factory wages? They relied on squeezing ordinary people to secure a better life, just as gangsters, politicians, and capitalists did. In essence, nobility was not fundamentally distinct; “
no, they could support a family however John had 50 children without the means to support them. Let’s be real. And ‘capitalists’ like it’s a job title😭 FML marxists🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️
that’s true, i’ll give you that. The factory owners do have a very difficult job. No one had it easy 💕
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Chapter 12 - Troubles
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London in December 1921. Patton Senior. died at the start of December.
I legally inherited 60% of his property prior to his passing. He can only watch annexation and acquisition from his bed. I witnessed my entire life's work being destroyed. Along with all of my nominal relatives, I went to his funeral.
No tears were shed. This ritual resembled the marble coffin he picked out for himself. Although luxurious, it was icy and emotionless. taste. Actually, George and Helen might not have been born if you were a boy. ". William spoke to me in such a calm manner. This is extremely uncommon. I either remember a domineering, haughty, or inebriated William.
Since I was a young child, I've envied you. I wish I was as smart as you, but I'm jealous of how much my father adores you. Despite being much younger than I am, you can do it with ease. The questions my father gave me to answer were simple for me. Despite my best efforts, I was unable to overtake you. I believe. Reply Share Add Follow Report. I begged my father to listen to me, but all he did was compliment you. His treasure is you alone. He was always so distant from me. Face. Even George's father didn't take him very seriously, in case you missed it. ".
So you immerse yourself in a vat of wine and confront your father everywhere. I had to make fun of him. William continued to speak to himself while ignoring my sarcasm, gazing off into the distance. He said, "I was very confused when my father died.
I was at a loss when I suddenly understood that after all these years, all I had done was cause trouble everywhere and make my father ill. Down. ".
"That's not completely accurate. You also have a child who was murdered before he was even born. ". I know, he paused, and he turned to face me. I know. I'm sure you'll never forget that maid. ".
She has a name! Her name is Mary Smith! She was even expecting your child, I sneered, "That maid," I couldn't help but sneer. You killed her, my wife, you beat her to death once more, you raped her, and you don't even remember her name. She was a poor Christian, forced to carry your evil seed, forced to suffer both physical and mental torture. She cannot have an abortion.
"Don't claim that you want to alter your behavior and are sorry for the past. When Mary asked where I was, I pointed to the south. Go talk to her and see if she will forgive you, my sister commanded, as she erected a tomb.
After saying that, I quickly walked away from him. I'm so sick that I actually believe a bastard who has existed for almost 30 years can change his ways! Jenny, have you called?
I had a little lightheadedness from the red wine at the party, so I stumbled and fell on the sofa, kicking one of my shoes off. "No, Madame Baroness. Jenny is a sweet-natured Celtic girl with blue eyes that are round and adorable. very small freckles. I had my other shoe removed by her. "oh……". I am somewhat. No, I'm completely lost.
I've written to Tommy to inform him that I'm now a baroness and that Turner House, 10 King's Road, Chelsea, is now legally my property. private residence. He received my phone number and postal address. I even mentioned Turner to him in the letter.
The Baroness is very well-liked in the social scene of London, and her suitors come and go like crucian carp in a river. All I want is for Thomas Shelby to call me, be envious of me, and use nice words to try to get me to confess my love for him. He didn't, though. ". I became very upset, pouted, and curled up on the couch. Tommy once claimed that I was more addictive to him than opiates, but in actuality, I was the one who was dependent on him. Every night I engaged in conversation and laughter at balls in London, dealt with various wealthy individuals every day, and interacted with a wide range of people.
Suitors. I was disoriented and intoxicated as I walked, and I couldn't stop thinking about him. There were one or two social interactions that were intolerable. I even considered eloping with my possessions back to Birmingham while in court.
But I am unable. I've made the decision to take over as Baron Turner and inherit everything from my father. But I figured I could treat myself to a holiday for Christmas. Just as I had done when I fled London seven years prior, I traversed the streets of Birmingham while toting my compact suitcase. Yet this.
I didn't have Finn to drive me home this time. The London affair was nearly over when I secretly flew back to Birmingham. I want to make Christmas special for my little prince. surprise.
I arrived at the horse racing betting station as snowflakes fell from the sky. Miss, tomorrow is Christmas. I'm planning to arrive early tomorrow to wager on the horse races. We'll end now. "I recognized the voice.
John is here. He grinned with surprise as I glanced up at him. "Diana!". We gave each other hugs. I was working in the kitchen with Polly and the others when Tommy returned home.
"Thomas didn't say it, but my dear, I believe he wanted to see you when he traveled to London so aggressively. " Polly. told me while grinning.
I laughed as I dipped my head. The look on Tommy's face if he realized Polly had exposed him is something I'm really curious to see. I heard John say "Tommy!" and grabbed the salad bowl as I exited the kitchen.
Across the dining table, we were just staring at one another. He took over Kenpo's business successfully and without incident, as he claimed in his letter. This is all. I still find his blue eyes fascinating even though his cheeks have gotten paler over time. I observed as the surprise gradually gave way to tenderness in his eyes. I blush and feel my heart race just from his soft gaze. A look is much better than a thousand words because it is so full of love and meaning.
Arthur popped his head out from behind him, "Tommy, what are you doing here?" He became hesitant when he saw me. "All right Tommy, you have plenty of time to examine Diana in more detail. John pushed Tommy while grinning. As I watched these men fight and push each other like immature children, I grinned. I went backwards and walked. cooking area.
This smell is what home smells like. Tommy moved into a larger home after earning a lot of money. His bedroom also expanded, and the bed did as well. yes. He rolled off of me and fell asleep next to me once the rain stopped and the clouds parted.
I still held him and tried to get into his arms even though the love just now had taken too much of my energy. Tommy exhaled and gave me a tight hug while kissing my skin and face.
Do you intend to leave? "Maybe. After all, the Turner family in Chelsea still has a lot of face. I murmured as I lay in his arms. "I. The brothers have tarnished the sterling reputation of our Turner family, which dates back to George I and has endured for many generations. through misbehavior.
The men in my family can only cause trouble, and then they will—William, who is well-known in London, and George, who isn't even an adult but has an illegitimate son. The mess-making is done by women. ". However, I'll most likely depart at the end of January. I turned my head up and gave him a chin kiss. "You're welcome to visit me anytime in London.
10 King's Road in Chelsea. Little prince, my dear. ". He had a fresh wound on his chest when I rubbed myself in his arms. It appeared to have been shot. I quickly stepped away from his arms out of fear that I would press his wound, and I used my fingers to gently circle the scar. Admire him. It must hurt awfully bad. Why did that happen. Didn't you say you had no skin injuries? ".
What's wrong with the wound on your hand? Tommy asked as he grabbed my hand and kissed it. "I was. "I did the burning myself.
However, I was afraid to say that to him. Even though we are very close, Tommy's expression of rage still makes me very impressed. It's peculiar. It's frightening, and I can't take his "punishment" any longer. After a brief period of silence, I realized that he had changed the topic. The subject should not even be brought up again. "It's a minor injury. A long time ago, everything was fine. I kept it from you. He gestured with his hand up, playing with my hair. "Explain your hands to me. ". "I……".
I was mortified as I looked into his probing eyes. But I was only able to go into great detail about my time in London. Of course, I forgot about the young men who flocked to me day after day.
I grew increasingly uneasy as I watched Tommy's expression of silence; surely he wouldn't get angry again? "I suddenly felt bad for letting you go. He gave me a big bear hug while he sighed. I stood up and kissed Tommy on the mouth, saying, "But I'm back, aren't I?
I gave him a direct look and said, "Tommy, I want you to tell me everything in the future and not keep it from me.". Eyes: "Whether it's accidents or anything else, financial difficulties or domestic problems. You got it all, Tommy.everything. You are always aware of what I can share with you. ". We just exchanged silent looks. Before he slowly nodded.
In Birmingham, I had a wonderful Christmas vacation. Every day, talk about the newest London fashion with Polly and Ismey. The kids talk about interesting things that happened in London before spending the night with my little prince.
"The dictator of Little Hiss and his troubled demon queen. ". I suddenly recalled my old moniker. I tried to speak clearly despite the fact that I was panting and lying beneath Tommy. Chu.
After hearing this, Thomas just chuckled and put more effort into demonstrating his "excessive debauchery.". The Baroness appears to have many suitors. Was it successful in finding the goddess? He was consuming the port wine I had brought back while seated at the other end of the tub.
I leisurely poured myself a glass of wine and asked, "Are you jealous?". "A beautiful, wealthy single woman. If a young woman marries, she will inherit a sizable amount of property and the title of baroness without any elders to make careless comments. this. Such a baroness would not attract any suitors who would be concerned with her virginity. ". I put down the wine glass in my hand and sat in the bathtub, asking, "So, is Mr. Shelby also interested in this Baroness?".
She shifted slightly in front of him before leaning forward and placing her hand on the inside of his thigh, just beneath the foam. His knees were nearly in contact with my breasts. I observed his Adam's apple rolling with pleasure.
"Per your request, my dear. Baroness. ".
I had to return to London once the holidays were over.
Cold, lonesome, and empty. After a brief trip back to Birmingham, I found 10 King Street to be progressively more intolerable. Home. There are still a lot of servants here, and occasionally young talents from London come to see me. However, in my opinion, it is still fair. Family honor has trapped me like a cold cage.
I didn't feel alive again until I occasionally traveled to Birmingham, and only then did I experience true emotion. only.
At that point, I no longer felt like a lifeless prisoner of familial honor, but rather like a living being. doll for a puppet.
It's possible that people were offended by the way I treated the young men, which led to the spread of unfavorable rumors about me. smell.
Some claim that my health is the reason why my suitors are so eager, while others assert that I did certain things during the five years I spent living away from London.
I once worked as a prostitute, and some claim that I frequently skip dances because I have business meetings with my financial backers; they fear that I will one day take over that profession from them. They believe that I paid for it with my body because of the financial sponsor.
Some insiders claim that I left London to meet my lover, a black man, and that they obtained this information from unidentified sources. Help the boss out.
To be completely honest, I was quite intrigued when I first heard those ridiculous rumors, just like when I heard a stranger's joke. Thus, urban legends are still used in London. But because I knew they were getting closer to reality, I finally became irate. How would you rate my little prince?
I asked Attorney Collins, my head spinning, "Can I sue them?". It is theoretically feasible, Madam Baroness. But these rumors are so pervasive that you can't even, he scowled in shame.
I have no idea where they came from. Furthermore, you cannot begin it one at a time once it has been spread by too many people. sue. ".
Such a mess. I clenched my fists, closed my eyes, and made an effort to restrain my rage. The same issue affects men who can have affairs with women of all social classes and even have children out of wedlock before getting hitched. Just a few jokes, really. However, because my lover is a Birmingham commoner, I, Baroness Turner, will be raped. to which.
I just did the same thing as those men, not even as extreme as them, but I was the subject of unending rumors. Slandered.
"Whore. heh. ". I believe I know who is responsible. At a ball held at Buckingham Palace, I first met my sister, Helen Burgess.
I had just said hello to Mr. Dot Churchill and had the first dance before that. He told me that my brother's passing had caused him grief.
I apologize, and congrats on acquiring the title successfully. I went to my sister's spot on the corner after the dance and sat down. Indeed, I overheard some people saying on the way. Mr. Churchill and I were involved in an affair.
I was a flower girl at Mr. Churchill's wedding; they are such creative people. Nevertheless, these politicians have morals.
Very flexible, but there is no real reason for someone to have sex with the young daughter of his former colleague, just like he did with his own daughter when she was a child. a young female.
"Your husband must have worked very hard to gain entry. Using your maiden name would have made it simple to invite you. Do enter. "I drank some champagne.
He is my husband. I looked in Helen's direction as she stubbornly raised her head. The congressman Burgess is collaborating. The wife of the Lord of the Admiralty flirted with, more accurately. flattered.
a man who utilizes his lover as a means of power. In fact, Councilor Burgess visited me after I was made a baroness. I don't even know who gave him this assurance. Face, we didn't get along during the inheritance argument just now. You are free to approach me as an equal after you lose. I offered to support his career and be his lover. I sipped more champagne and remained silent, only turning to look at Senator Burgess. I will only bargain with those who can speak to me in order to capture the thief and the king. There's no need for me to intervene, though, because he provoked Mr. Churchill. Ordinary scandals are just something to talk about after dinner. Men won't give them a second thought, and they'll even use them as medals to show it.
I have endless charm. But when these have an impact on their lives and careers, they will abruptly abandon them. The rumors' development has simply been sped up by me. Indeed, Mr. Churchill couldn't stay still and stood up to correct those false facts.
words. Additionally, society also ignored those foolish, chatty women who fell for Senator Burgess' charms.
I at last experienced my usual peace and quiet after the London social season ended. even though I've handled these storms well. I spent the night returning to Birmingham because I was still feeling very upset.
Tommy was headed to London to meet me because he had heard the rumors. He once more set the bag down in his hand when he saw me approaching the door. plum.
"Tommy. why not wed me right away. ". I feel extremely resentful and resentful when I consider those "whispering words" that nearly punctured my spine. if it was. Birmingham, if anyone had dared to do this to me, I would have shot them all. "Dani, you are the Baroness," Tommy said while wiping away my tears and kissing my lips. ".
"I don't give a damn! I don't give a damn! Tommy, I just want you. ". I felt more wronged the more I sobbed, and the more I sobbed, the more I wanted to cry. I behaved childishly as I lay in Tommy's arms and resisted getting up.
Until I eventually stopped crying, he quietly hugged me. "Dani, I can't let the last two years' worth of your labor go to waste. Turner, not Diana, is who you are now. ". Lord. ".
"I regret it, Tommy. I regret it. ". Tommy and I would have wed, had kids, and I would have been well-known if I had still been Diana Turner. Sincere Shelby, please. However, I can now have sex with various men before getting married because I am Baroness Turner. Love, but I couldn't date a Birmingham gangster. "Honey, you were acting irate. Tommy gave me a kiss. Of course, I still recall why I chose to make the effort to become a baroness and why I initially decided to return to London. A London baroness wife will play a role when Tommy starts to expand to London, which is a more crucial factor.
In terms of both financial and political support, it is very important. I wish I could do more for my partner. I want to be more than just his quiet hometown; I want to walk alongside him.
Thomas managed to calm me down, but I was still reluctant to leave. Though old grudges make me, I still recall my duties. had no choice but to flee for a while. He was powerless to stop me, and so he agreed to let me keep doing what I was doing before. "Tommy, you're rich now, and a baroness works for you as your secretary. ", said Arthur. An infectious disease claimed the life of Ada's husband, Freddie Thorne.
Thomas, who was once friends with Thorne, spoke at his funeral as promised and was sincere afterwards. Ada was invited to bring Carl and live with him at his house. Ada was unconcerned. Since she was no longer Shelby or Thorne, she claimed to be free. I was compelled to give her a bear hug after recognizing the tremor in her voice.
Ada and Thorne got married out of love, but they were divorced for a long time because of unimportant issues and conflicts. The sporadic running-in nevertheless transformed the vivacious young woman into a frazzled single mother. She was angry, but I could tell she was feeling relieved.
I want Ada to know that even though she hasn't forgiven Tommy yet, we will always be related. The seven-year itch, that is. As I turned to look at Thomas after watching Ada walk away, I muttered, ". "us. Should this occur again in the future? As soon as we were combined with honey, we did not think twice about leaving our family; today, we are disgusted with one another and feel relieved.
Tommy gave me a puzzled look as if he were attempting to understand what was going through my mind. There's no need for you to fret all the time. Tommy gave me an irritated glare. "It's something you want, isn't it? I'll return to London the following day. I tried to change the subject while lowering my head to avoid his stare. "Um. ". "Give me Ada's address, and I'll look after her in London," he said. ". "Um. ". ". ". ". ". ". Tommy, I adore you. ". "……Um. ". Once more, he grinned. It's like a young child who needs to be encouraged when he's upset!
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Chapter 11 - Conspiracy
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He spoke so persuasively that Senator Burgess was left without words. And what about those relatives who surround us like hyenas? Most of them have approached me. They worked with William before, but their expectations were not met. Wealth and Congressman Burgess excels in Tai Chi; he is not willing to relinquish even half of the benefits. Their only option is me—a "soft persimmon." In these special times, we can calculate some matters behind closed doors.
As I gained the upper hand in this prolonged battle, Senators William and Burgess couldn't sit idly. I need to investigate my whereabouts in the last five years. They aim to prove my moral character is corrupt, tarnishing my reputation so I can start on an equal footing with them again. Joke! How can the losers uncover matters personally handled by Thomas Shelby?
I stared coldly at the old man across from me. "Dani, this agreement is advantageous. You can smoothly acquire all my property, including the prince's share left by your father. David Barton smiled, sliding the will toward me. "Agreement? It's a threat, isn't it?" I examined the files on the table. If I had never loved Tommy, accepting all of Old Barton’s fortune and later marrying Adam would be within my realm of acceptance. I might even choose to divorce in the future, provided I had already borne him a healthy son, relinquishing 60% of the Barton family inheritance.
"Do you want your brother to know your whereabouts in the past five years?" The old man still smiled, but his eyes were shrewdly calculating. "Compared to having nothing, isn't this the best outcome?"
The best outcome? I came all the way from Birmingham, leaving my lover, and after over a year here, are you telling me this is the best outcome? He never mentioned his plans and will when I first arrived in London. Instead, he waited for the right moment. First, he escorted me to the altar, showing me the hope within reach. Then, he presented his conditions. If I refuse, I hit rock bottom, losing everything I enjoyed over the past year.
October 15, 1923, 2:21 PM, Mrs. Shelby's 11th Conspiracy - Vanessa's Poplar.
The price is too high, and the conditions proposed aren't overly harsh, so most might succumb. But I'm different. I dared to run away from home at fifteen, had relations with a gang leader as an adult, shot in a brothel, managed illegal horse racing, and even threatened to bribe government officials.
"Give me some time to think about it." Consider how I can "repay" you nicely. Since that day, when I asked for consideration, David Barton has confined me to his room. Despite daily comforts, I lack freedom.
I carefully considered who else knows about my past. Tommy is reliable, so the only person left is someone beyond Tommy's reach—Campbell. As a direct subordinate of Churchill, it's not surprising he knows Old Patton. Attorneys Collins could be an ally if I can get him on my side. But first, I need to get out.
I noticed there are lit menorahs here. Barton House caught fire, burning my hand. These once fair and beautiful hands can no longer hold a pen, let alone sign a document.
"If you don't want people to wonder why Miss Turner disappeared again, you'd better let me go to the ball." Old Barton's expression soured. Even in pain, he couldn't keep me locked in the house.
So what if I set the fire? He has no evidence, and no one will believe him. It's a fantasy—knocking over a candlestick to escape. When no one's around, the pain in my hand intensifies.
"You're really cruel to yourself." Lawyer Collins gazes at my mummified hands with awe. "For freedom." I don't blame him for not disclosing the agreement, indirectly leading to my setting the fire.
Attorney Collins is new to society, unlike us, he doesn't grasp the cruelty of social competition. He feels guilty for the indirect consequences of his actions. I'll use that.
News of Miss Turner's burnt hands spreads to all London balls. People visit me daily. Old Barton can't keep me locked anymore. Even if I'm uninterested in the young men courting me, I entertain them for longer-term plans.
Through them, I learn a secret hidden by Old Barton. My aunt, Mrs. Button, resents me for being declared heir. I sent my uncle's illegitimate son to her, hoping to undermine my legitimacy. My recovered illegitimate cousin causes a stir.
In October 1921, I become Baroness Turner, giving a fifth of my wealth to my sister, who supports my brother William. I hire a private detective to uncover Old Barton's secrets. I prepare for a battle against him.
Pacing on my own city wall, I learn of Old Barton's illness in October 1923. Lying on a couch, Attorney Collins delivers the news. "Really?" I'm not surprised. I pick a grape, recalling the pain and burning. "He wants to see you, Madam Baroness." Old Barton is very ill.
"I really underestimated you. You deserve to be Charles' daughter." His sharp eyes and cunning words don't faze me. "For your mother's sake, let Adam go, and I'll give you half of my fortune."
"Do you think I'm short of money?" I look at him. "Do you think everything I did was because I lived in poverty for five years? On the contrary, I never experienced hardship in Birmingham. Everything I did was revenge."
Even though I lived happily, I can't forget the faces of those who hurt me, the beatings, Sister Mary's tragic death, and Nurse Claire's tears. I long for Tommy's comfort. Old Barton's offer doesn't sway me; I'm not short of money, but I'm short of family. I left my real relatives for money, and I miss Tommy dearly.
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 10 - Comeback
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June 1920, London
I watched as unfamiliar buildings flickered past on the familiar streets. Even though I was back in London, everything still felt unreal, like the events of escaping home and marriage were just from last night.
The Barton estate was located in Belgravia, and the familiar white villa stood proudly on the street. Led by a servant, I ascended the stairs and sat in the drawing-room, waiting.
The furnishings seemed unchanged; my mother's picture still hung on the wall. She remained frozen in the past with her beauty. After five years away from the trends and expensive cosmetics, I wondered how much of Elizabeth Barton's dominance in London's social season remained on my face.
Five years ago, in haste, I left without taking her photo. Over these years, whenever I looked in the mirror, I felt she had vanished from me.
"Mother..."
It wasn't like my mother and I were close. At home, she seemed like a faint presence. The upbringing of the four of us siblings was handled by the governess; Dad occasionally offered guidance. With chefs, maids, housekeepers, and Dad's private lawyer, the affairs of the house didn't concern her. Her existence seemed solely for birthing and being a beautiful hostess, adorning her beauty with her husband's wealth. From my earliest memories, the most common praise for her was, "Your mother is truly a stunning beauty." Even after her death, people still reminisced about her. Beautiful, unparalleled beauty. That's all Lady Elizabeth Turner Baroness left in this world.
I looked at the photos for a while, then sat on the long sofa by the window, looking outside. The streets were deserted, filled mostly with cars, devoid of the lively atmosphere of Small Heath. The streets here were clean, spacious, and orderly, everything I knew, but I couldn't find the sense of belonging to a home here.
I heard footsteps and turned my head. My maternal grandfather walked shakily, supported by two men. One should be his only grandson, my cousin Adam Barton, the other man I didn't recognize.
Looking at the old man, I felt a mix of emotions. For a moment, I didn't know how to face him. He had once shown me around his factories, introduced me to his business partners, and would always bring us little trinkets when he visited Turner Manor. But it was also him who, when I had no way out, ordered his son to send me away when I knocked on his door, his cold attitude treating me like a stranger worker striking in his factory. For five years, he didn't care about my whereabouts, allowing me to disappear from the world.
It was also him who, suddenly after five years, desperately searched for me, wanting me to come back and inherit his legacy.
I looked at him, tears streaming down, finding it somewhat amusing. A person of his age acting out this play in front of his juniors.
But I still cooperated and squeezed out a couple of tears.
Then he joyfully introduced my cousin to me, speaking with an intimate tone that gave me goosebumps. The boy was only 17, still studying at Harrow, but he looked bewildered, lacking the shrewdness of his grandfather.
 He enthusiastically expressed how much he missed me, going from my mother, who passed away ten years ago, to me, my foolish brother, and my deceased younger brother who should have inherited the title and had a promising future but unfortunately died.
He circled around the topic so much that everything he said seemed superfluous. I couldn't get any information from it—except what I already knew.
I couldn't sleep.
This was my bedroom. I lay on the soft bed, dressed in comfortable silk pajamas, the fresh scent of flowers lingering on my nose. Everything was quiet, and there was no noise outside. There was also a bedside lamp that could be turned on at any time.
But I couldn't sleep. I wanted to go back to Tommy. Even if it meant squeezing onto a small bed with him, lying naked on rough cotton sheets, breathing in the smoke from his body, occasionally hearing noises from outside, we could only rely on the moonlight to see each other clearly.
I stared at the ceiling, trying not to think about everything in Birmingham. It would only make it harder for me to fall asleep. I counted sheep in my mind. After counting to three thousand and fifty-six, unable to endure the agony of insomnia, I put on a coat and left the bedroom.
I wanted a glass of whiskey.
In the study, I met my maternal grandfather's personal lawyer, Edward Collins.
He looked surprised to see me.
"I can't sleep, so I came for a drink," I explained.
He nodded. "What will you have?"
"Whiskey, Irish."
Collins seemed quite interested in me. I could see him stealing glances at me.
I could understand. A female heir who disappeared for five years and suddenly reappeared, it was quite attention-grabbing. Everyone would be curious about her story and then gossip about her misfortunes or good fortune.
I didn't mind telling the story if the audience could give me an equivalent return.
For example, the content of my maternal grandfather's will, the current situation of the Turner family.
I turned my head, coincidentally making eye contact with Lawyer Collins.
 His hands twitched nervously, and his young face turned red.
"How long have you been working for my grandfather?"
"Since... since I graduated."
Since he graduated... I had no interest in when he graduated. I rolled my eyes silently in my mind, continuing to ask him, "Do they still have connections with the Turner family?"
If he was smart enough, he should understand what I was asking.
I saw him gulp down a big mouthful of alcohol and choked.
Well, he was quite clever, and his mouth was sealed tightly.
"What are his next plans? You can tell the truth; I am his heir."
"Miss, you might as well directly ask me about the contents of the will," the young lawyer smiled bitterly.
Since the conversation had reached this point... I nodded, finished my drink, and got up to leave.
My maternal grandfather, after my return to London, never mentioned his plans, treating me as if I were just a guest he invited.
He always liked to intentionally or unintentionally let me interact with his grandson, allowing us to be alone. Let me teach him piano, guide him in painting, and so on. It seemed like the more I got in touch with this inexperienced little cousin, the more he thought I would fall in love with him.
Lawyer Collins gradually became my late-night drinking companion. Although he still refused to reveal a word about the will, I roughly guessed something from our small talk—my maternal grandfather wanted me to marry into the Barton family, to marry this boy who hadn't even entered university.
Since he didn't say it explicitly, I pretended not to know. The expenses of staying at Barton Manor didn't come from my wallet, and my maternal grandfather cared more about the title of Baron Turner than I did—whether the future mistress of the Barton family would be Miss Turner or Lady Turner made a big difference.
So, what was there for me to worry about? Good food, good drinks, living comfortably in Barton Manor, enjoying the life of luxury and leisure that belonged to me.
Maybe because I had no family affairs and business to worry about these days, I felt like I had gained weight.
It wasn't just me; my maternal grandfather noticed too.
 Finally, during dinner, he subtly brought up the society ball. He chose the ball hosted by the American ambassador for my comeback.
Now was the end of London's social season. In his view, I didn't need to find a suitable husband; I just needed to use a platform to announce that Miss Turner had returned to the London aristocracy.
It was also a declaration of war against the Turner family.
For me, it was harmless, and I could wear fashionable and beautiful dresses and jewelry. Why not go?
"Diana Turner!"
I gracefully entered the ballroom.
According to the information Lawyer Collins told me, my sister Helen had married a common politician two years ago, and she was now Lady Burgess—an underage Lady Burgess, something only that scoundrel William could achieve. So, the only Miss Turner in all of London was me.
Even after five years away, I was still adept at self-indulgence and socializing.
In the luxurious ballroom, I chatted and laughed with the aristocrats, enjoying the feeling of being the center of attention.
Night after night, I reveled in luxury.
After attending the ball hosted by the American ambassador, invitations for other balls poured in. Turner Baron's family once again became the talk of the town. People, like hyenas catching the scent of meat, tried to get a share of the Turner family's fortune.
Among the visitors were my Aunt Miller, Uncle Jacob Turner, paternal uncle grandfather, and other relatives.
They claimed to be willing to help me inherit the estate.
"They speak so high and mighty, as if they're willing to help me," I sat in the tasting room, shaking the glass in my hand. "But it's just because they think I'm a young, single woman, and after inheriting the estate, I'll be ready to be divided."
Lawyer Collins, hearing my words, nodded in agreement. "Forgive me for being blunt, Miss, but your sister Lady Burgess is indeed easily manipulated by her husband. With Mr. Burgess around, they probably can't extract much from this couple."
He said it politely. I, during these days of socializing, heard a lot about the Burgess couple: the stingy and shrewd Mr. Burgess, and Helen, like a puppet, capricious and with her brain merely for decoration.
"So, that's why they came to me." I tilted my head back and finished the drink.
My maternal grandfather, after my return to London, never mentioned his plans, treating me as if I were just a guest he invited.
He always liked to intentionally or unintentionally let me interact with his grandson, allowing us to be alone. Let me teach him piano, guide him in painting, and so on. It seemed like the more I got in touch with this inexperienced little cousin, the more he thought I would fall in love with him.
Lawyer Collins gradually became my late-night drinking companion. Although he still refused to reveal a word about the will, I roughly guessed something from our small talk—my maternal grandfather wanted me to marry into the Barton family, to marry this boy who hadn't even entered university.
Since he didn't say it explicitly, I pretended not to know. The expenses of staying at Barton Manor didn't come from my wallet, and my maternal grandfather cared more about the title of Baron Turner than I did—whether the future mistress of the Barton family would be Miss Turner or Lady Turner made a big difference.
So, what was there for me to worry about? Good food, good drinks, living comfortably in Barton Manor, enjoying the life of luxury and leisure that belonged to me.
Maybe because I had no family affairs and business to worry about these days, I felt like I had gained weight.
Finally, he gently mentioned the comeback dance to me over dinner. He chose for me the dance given by the wife of the American ambassador meeting. It’s the end of London’s social season. In his opinion, I don't need to find another husband, I just need to help him A platform announced to the dignitaries in London that Miss Turner had returned. It was also a declaration of war against the Turners. For me, there is nothing wrong with this, and there are fashionable and beautiful dresses and jewelry to wear, so why not go? "Miss Diana Turner!" I walked into the banquet hall. According to what Attorney Collins told me, my sister Helen was married off by our brother two years ago. Ordinary politician, she is now Mrs. Burgess - the underage Mrs. Burgess, well, the only one who failed was William. Things that only human beings can do. So I am the only Miss Turner in London. Even after being away for 5 years, I still know how to enjoy and socialize without a teacher. In the luxurious banquet hall, I chatted and laughed with the dignitaries, enjoying the feeling of being surrounded by stars. Shengsing and singing every night, drunken and ecstatic. After my high-profile appearance at the American Ambassador's wife's ball, invitations to other balls began to flow in. turner of chelsea The Baron's family once again made a family affair known to the whole city. These people were like hyenas on the scent of meat, trying to get the most out of the Turners' Get a piece of the inheritance. Also visiting were my aunt Mrs. Miller, uncle Jacob Turner, cousin, and other relatives. They said they would help me inherit the inheritance. "You heard what they said was high-sounding, and they looked like they were willing to help me." I sat in the tasting room, shaking my head. Wine glass in hand. "Just because they thought I was a young single woman, after I inherited the inheritance It can be divided up. " Attorney Collins nodded in agreement after listening to my words, "With all due respect, Miss, your sister Mrs. Burgess does In fact, he is a person who is easily manipulated by his husband. With Mr. Burgess around, they probably wouldn't be able to get out of this couple's life. 10/2/23, 3:18 PM Mrs. Shelby 10 Comeback – Vanessa’s Poplar https://xinruoxiangyangwuweibeishang257.lofter.com/post/200277e1_1cc09bb9f 6/8 How much property is extracted from the government. " Everything he said was polite. I have also heard a lot about Helen and his wife at dances these days: Stingy Congressman Burgess, a shrewd and mean-spirited man, is like a puppet, with a moody temper and a brain just for decoration. Helen. "That's why you found me." I raised my head and drank all the wine in the glass.
The red brick house at 10 King's Road has remained unchanged in five years, standing tall on the Thames just as it has for more than two hundred years. He stood aside, silently observing the people coming and going inside. It is history itself. I was born and raised here, watched my parents die, was imprisoned, escaped for freedom, and now fight for Come back for revenge. I pushed open the study door, and the people arguing inside stopped and turned to look at me. Their expressions are interesting Extremely. "You…" William's eyes widened and he staggered towards me. He must have thought that over the past five years I had Buried in some unknown corner. I sneered in my heart, but didn't show it on my face. I smiled gently and warmly. It seemed that our relationship was really good. I really miss him. "Long time no see, my dear…brother."
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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Mrs.Shelby-Chapter 9- Gift
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April 1920, Birmingham
John called us to the Garrison pub, claiming there was a matter to announce. He said he was going to marry Lizzie Stark. I don't want to comment on this. Everyone's a whore; we just sell different parts of ourselves. Those were Tommy's words.
Lizzie Stark is a good person; at least she knows gratitude. She took care of Martha before she died, and even after, she often visited Martha and John's children.
But John is a Shelby. How can Thomas Shelby's younger brother marry a whore? What does that mean for the future of the Peaky Blinders? What has happened to the Shelbys? Love runs deep, and for the sake of love, people throw everything away.
"Tommy, can you understand?" John pleaded with his brother. "You have Diana, and I deserve love too."
...Why should I care? I am Lady Vanessa from Chelsea, and would it be embarrassing for Tommy and me to be together?
At this moment, Finn rushed in, saying we had been robbed. The Lee family made it clear that they are also a bunch of bastards.
As I flipped through the ledgers, reconciling the lost property, Tommy found a pair of pliers on the table in the meeting room.
"Don't move! There's a hand grenade here," he warned.
Listening to their stories about the "jokes" on the battlefield, I was stunned. Still, I quickly responded, "No, there isn't. Otherwise, we would have been blown up when we came in."
"The bullets they sent only have my name on them. They want to kill me."
...Alright, what bullets? Tommy kept this from me again.
I watched him run out of the betting shop, seemingly knowing the location of the bomb.
I looked down at the ledgers. Money can be earned again, but things more precious than money are irreplaceable. If we want to replace Billy Kimber, we cannot afford a setback and let the Lee family take advantage. We must negotiate and become a tight unit.
Tommy returned, having found the bomb in his car.
He listened to my thoughts and nodded. I asked if he wanted me to accompany him.
He remained silent for a moment and shook his head. "The Lee family knows I have a beauty with me, but they don't know you."
"So what?" I frowned at him. I didn't understand. I just wanted to help him bear more, and besides, we were going for negotiation, not war. What's so scary about them knowing who I am?
Tommy shook his head and gave me a teasing kiss. "Can you... uh, smoke less..."
Tommy went to the outskirts market, and I accompanied Polly to find Ada.
Poor Ada, pregnant and living like a rat in the dark basement. Love? If this is love, I'd rather not.
Ada gave us the address of one of Sean's associates, a life for a life.
Since Ada left home, this was the first time I had seen her. She had changed from the lively girl of those years into a thin woman with a bulging belly. Her face was pale, and her eyes rolled around like a frightened quail.
"Don't torture yourself just because you hate Thomas," I squatted down, trying to persuade her gently. "And Thomas has done a lot for you and Sean, even though he sometimes seems annoying, he loves you. Go home."
I tried to persuade Ada to go home for rest, but she firmly refused.
It was raining heavily. I tightened my coat and stood in Tommy's garage.
Finally, Campbell arrived.
I handed him a note with Chapman's address. "This is Stanley Chapman's residence, and he has £200 from the Russians."
Campbell reached out to take the note but I dodged. "Use it to exchange for Sean."
He nodded. "You have my guarantee, Miss Turner."
Guarantee? Who would believe your guarantee? I raised an eyebrow.
His eyes betrayed him; he seemed to see me as a little animal that could be played with. He probably thought I was a gentlewoman protected by Thomas, harmless and innocent.
I didn't bother to correct his mistake. Let him see the consequences of his prejudice.
He asked me to pass a message to Thomas, asking him to hand over the weapons as soon as possible, and made a series of threats.
"Your spy, Grace from Garrison Pub," I spoke as he walked away. "Quite useless."
I watched Campbell stop in his tracks, turn around, and look at me.
We silently confronted each other.
"Miss Vanessa," he called me by my title.
That's right.
Despite scoffing at the news of "grandfather looking for me," I still managed to contact the informant who came from London. My grandfather, David Barton, was in poor health, his only son had already passed away, and he wanted me to return to be his heir, inheriting his factory and vast wealth. He even offered to help me inherit the title of Baroness—even though my younger brother George was still the current heir.
My grandfather went as far as seeking Churchill's help to communicate with me. Although I was indifferent to inheriting the wealth, I felt a bit emotional seeing the news of my grandfather.
In the face of the upcoming war, the support of such a wealthy old man would be a great help to the Shelby family. So, I decided to return to London temporarily.
I briefly talked to my grandfather on the phone, but the most important thing for me was to find information about the Russians.
The Shelleys sent a car to pick me up.
I drove my car and waited at the entrance of the Garrison. I planned to tell Thomas about my temporary departure to London and also to ask him about the Russians.
But Thomas seemed to be in a bad mood.
"Tommy," I called his name, but he only gave me a cold look.
"I'm leaving for London. Grandfather asked me to inherit the family business," I said softly.
This time, he finally looked at me seriously. "When?"
"As soon as possible. I'll be back after handling the family affairs. It's just a temporary return."
He didn't say anything. I could feel the chill in his eyes.
"I need to know more about the Russians. Do you have any information?" I continued.
He finally spoke, his voice indifferent. "We're dealing with them."
That was all he said.
I left Birmingham without saying goodbye to the others. As I boarded the car, I took one last glance at the Garrison, hoping that when I returned, everything would be fine.
However, fate had a different plan for me. I didn't know that my temporary departure marked the beginning of a series of unpredictable events.
As I stepped into the car, I could feel a storm brewing on the horizon. Little did I know, the storm would change everything.
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irenethewoman · 7 months
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It’s finally here! Waited forever ✨💕
𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗘, 𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗘 ──────── tommy shelby fanfic ✦ f/reader
when tommy returns from the great war he has two goals in mind: expand the family business and fuck you, aunt polly's adopted daughter
word count: 4,097
content: smut and fluff
chapter warnings: inappropriate vocabulary, explicit sex, loss of virginity, oral (f receiving), season one, rough sex. not suitable for minors — 18+ only
masterlist click here ✧ interact with this post to be on the taglist of tommy shelby
english is not my first language, so forgive me if there are spelling mistakes.
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You and Tommy hate each other, you can't hold a normal conversation without insulting each other. Ever since Polly adopted you as her daughter after your mother's death, the Shelbys have accepted you as a member of the family, except for one member: Tommy Shelby. He is always looking for any occasion to make it clear to you that for him you were not part of the family and much less did he consider you his cousin or sister, no, for him you are nothing. Or so you thought until now.
Since he came back from the Great War his compartment was strange, he no longer looked at you in a hostile way and even included you in family conversations, you didn't understand why his drastic change towards you. And you didn't stay with your arms crossed and with all the doubts in your head, you left your room and walked to his, it was after midnight and you were sure he was still awake, he never slept. You knock on the door and a few seconds later you hear his voice saying you can come in.
When you enter, he is standing in front of his bed, dressed only in a white shirt and black trousers. "It's you," he says shamelessly, showing the opium pipe on the bedside table.
"Using that shit again?" You glare at him, hating the smell of it, the smoke that wafts into your room, which, to your misfortune, is next to his.
"That's what you came in the middle of the night for, eh?" Tommy replies indifferently.
You shake your head and close the door behind you "No, I don't give a shit what you do" You lie "I just came to ask you what's wrong, why are you being so nice lately, huh? Did they teach you in the war to be nice to me or what the fuck?"
Tommy looks away from you to pick up a cigarette and light it, takes a puff and looks you up and down, his eyes linger on your tits which are sticking out of the nightdress you're wearing, making it obvious that you're not wearing a bra and that's quite a turn on. He raises his cold blue eyes to your face again. "Don't you want me to be nice?"
"I'm just confused, Thomas. Ever since Polly adopted me when I was ten you've been an asshole to me, but suddenly you're not like that anymore, I want to know what the fuck is wrong with you."
Tommy smiles shaking his head and takes one last puff on his cigarette before putting it down in the ashtray next to his bed. He licks his lips and looks at you in a way that causes you to shiver, and he starts to slowly pull you closer to him "What do I want? I want that virgin pussy you have all to myself" You pull back as he moves closer to you, "I want you to be mine, just mine. I want to fuck you like no man has ever fucked you before and no one else ever will because only I will touch that body." Tommy corners you against the door, gluing his body to yours, your breathing becomes ragged not knowing what to do at that moment, he grabs one leg of yours and hooks it around his hip to glue his pelvis against yours, you feel his erection against you, "Can you feel it, can you feel how hard I am for you, love?"
"Tommy" You try to stop him by calling his name but you actually moan his name, feeling your panties start to get wet.
Tommy lowers one hand and his fingertips run down your raised thigh with his grip until he reaches the edge of your nightgown and slips it underneath, his hand travels to your soaked panties and he caresses your vaginal lips with his fingers and with his thumb he squeezes your clitoris, pulling a loud moan from your mouth, "All wet, ready for my cock. Do you want to know why I never accepted you into the family?. At first it was because I didn't like you, but a few years later I realized that wasn't the real reason, no. In fact, I did like you but in a different way than my brothers, little by little I started to want you and the older we got the more I wanted you" Tommy starts kissing your neck "I wanted you all the time" He pulls down the strap of your nightgown with his mouth as his kisses reach your shoulder, exposing your tit in the dark room "And in the war I kept thinking about you and your innocent pussy, which was never touched by anyone because you cling to that stupid tradition of arriving virgin to your marriage."
"This is wrong, Tommy." You tell him and grab the sparse hair on the back of his neck to pull his lips away from your tit and stare at him. "Polly will kill us if she finds out what we're doing now."
"Fuck Polly, fuck everyone else." Tommy pulls his face close until your noses collide and your lips brush, "I want you, (Y/N). And I know you do too."
Of course you wanted him, you'd been in love with Tommy Shelby since you were 17, but you also felt you were betraying Polly, you'd promised her years ago that you'd never fall for her nephew, but here you were, about to give your virginity to him. "Promise me that neither Polly nor anyone else will ever find out about this." You grab his pear with one hand and squeeze it to look him in the eye, "Promise me, Thomas."
"I promise," he replies and there is not a hint of a lie in his eyes. So you trust him completely.
When you release Tommy's face from your grasp he glues his lips to yours, thrusting his tongue into your mouth at the first opportunity you give him, fulfilling his darkest fantasy: kiss you till you're breathless. You both pull away from the kiss and you grab the edge of your nightdress to start to pull it off your body, but Tommy stops you to grab it and tear it in two pieces as if it's nothing, leaving you in just your panties.
"Thomas! It was my favourite!"
"I'll buy you another one, now lie down on my bed."
You obey him without protest and in a few seconds you are on his bed lying on your back, he moves to the edge of the bed and starts to undress, exposing his muscular chest full of scars and tattoos in front of you making your panties even wetter. Tommy climbs on top of the small bed, small enough for two people to lie on and grabs your thighs to spread your legs apart, "I can't wait any longer, I need to taste that sweet pussy of yours". He starts to spread kisses up your thighs and across your crotch and then kisses your excited swollen clit above your panties, making you moan loud enough to be sure the rest of the Shelby family has heard you. "This is how I want you for the rest of my life, moaning my name and begging for more" Tommy grabs the edges of your panties slowly pulling them down your legs, once out of your reach he grunts at the sight of your swollen labia, ready for his mouth and cock. You watch as Tommy lowers his head to within inches of your pussy, you feel his breath on it and in milliseconds he licks your slit.
"Tommy!" You scream uncontrollably, no one has ever given you oral sex before, you've heard of it but you've never done it, you were a complete virgin in every way.
Thomas stops licking your slit to move up to your clit, licking over the hood, his pale blue eyes look up to see you moan uncontrollably causing his erection in your trousers to get harder, he holds your waist with one arm so you don't move too much and with his free hand he stimulates your clit with his thumb then unfolds it from the hood and that's when he licks your fully exposed clit and a few seconds later sucks it out.
"Aah, fuck" It comes out of your throat loudly, you no longer cared if the rest of the family heard your screams, you were having the time of your life. But suddenly Tommy pulls away from you and drops his trousers in front of you and you are mesmerised by his cock, it was erect against his pelvis, it's slightly curved to the left and thick. You had never seen a cock before, it was your first time so you couldn't take your eyes off it, but a fear crept into your brain, "Will it fit...inside me?" you ask timidly.
Thomas chuckles at your words "My cock will go in that pussy of yours", he moves towards you, settling between your legs, he rests on his shoulders on the side of your head, his face in front of yours, so close their lips were brushing "You're wet enough for me to fuck you, I made sure of that when I tasted that pussy". Tommy kisses you and speaks above your lips "If it hurts I'll stop, okay?"
You nod your head, wrap your arms around his neck and kiss him, you lose yourself in his full lips, you both lose yourselves in the kiss. Tommy holds your head in his hand as he deepens the kiss by thrusting his tongue into your mouth, you do too, and a struggle begins between the two of you. The first one to pull away is him to lower his hand and place his cock at your entrance, you for your part were busy kissing his neck until you reached the back of his ear, it is then when Tommy enters deep into your pussy, you moan in his ear but you pull away to see him face to face. With a look he asks you if you are ok.
"Wait a little," you say as you stroke his cheek, you felt strange, it was a very pleasant feeling to have him inside you but at the same time it hurt a little, you couldn't imagine what it would feel like when he started to move in and out of you. It took you a few long minutes to give him permission to move, ready for what was to come.
Thomas gives you a little kiss and then pulls his cock out of your pussy to penetrate you as gently as possible, he kept looking at you to make sure you were ok, when a few thrusts happen and you close your eyes moaning that action was enough signal to start fucking you as he wanted, as he was dreaming for several years. He grabs your hands to hold them above your head and entangles his fingers with yours, he takes one last look at you to hide his face in your neck and start to penetrate you fast and hard. You feel his cock thrust deep in and out of your pussy, you were a mess, you were no longer moaning, no, you were screaming. He was fucking you so well it was impossible not to scream with every thrust, the room was a mixture of the sound of your bodies colliding, Tommy's soft moans muffled against your neck and you screaming his name or just moaning out loud.
Tommy releases your hands to put them on either side of your head and lean on them, then opens his eyes to look down at you beneath him, hair tousled, tits bouncing with each thrust and mouth slightly open, it was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen in his life. "I wish you could see you now. Screaming like a whore under me," he rams you deeper, stimulating your G spot "You take me so good, this pussy is made for my cock you know." You open your eyes to meet him with a look of pure lust in his eyes, mouth half open, breathing ragged, "From now on you're mine, no one touches what's mine. You're my property."
"If I'm yours you forget about your other whores" You say between moans "No Lizzie, no other woman. You're mine, do you agree?"
"I agree" Tommy this time he wasn't lying to the face of the woman in front of his eyes, it had been a long time since he had paid obeisance to one. Last time it was to Greta, but today he would change that and only have eyes for one woman in his life and that is (Y/N).
The bed began to move in time with Tommy's thrusts, crashing the bed against the wall. Generating quite an annoying noise for the other people in the same house, and you were starting to worry about the noise, "Tommy" You call out to him but he only responds with a grunt "Tommy, the bed" You tell him and grab his face so he can hear you but he instead kisses you and hooks your legs around his waist to get deeper into your pussy "Oh my God!"
"No, not God. Me" Tommy presses his forehead against yours and you both lose yourselves in each other's gaze.
Both of you are about to cum, a few more thrusts were enough for you to see the stars, Tommy cums inside you a few seconds later when he hears you screaming his name as you cum, both of you sweaty and shaken. When he recovers from his orgasm he starts kissing your neck and breasts and then kisses your mouth, but this kiss wasn't like the others, this kiss was tender and full of love, this kiss showed you that Tommy didn't just want sex with you, he wanted more than that. He breaks the kiss to lie down next to you, he wraps an arm around your neck and pulls you close to his chest, you grab the blanket at the end of the bed and cover each other with it. Tommy stares at the ceiling, but you're left wondering what happened.
"I can't believe I lost my virginity to you, I never imagined I'd be with you like this."
Thomas shakes his head down to look at you "Do you regret it?"
"No. But what will people say when they find out about us? What about Polly?"
"Fuck what other people think. We're not related by blood, the whole fucking Small Heath knows that." When you don't answer he grabs your pear so you look at him "We'll keep it a secret until you feel ready to tell Polly ok?"
You nod and he kisses you, making you forget absolutely everything in that moment.
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The next morning Tommy goes down to the kitchen to read the paper, normally he did this in the Garrison but this morning he had decided to stay in bed with you longer, he hadn't slept so peacefully since he came home from the war and last night, cuddled up with you, he didn't have the same nightmares as usual. As he enters the kitchen he meets his older brother and his aunt, ignores their stares and lights a cigarette to start reading the weekly newspaper.
"You did have fun last night, Tom," Arthur says, trying to hide his laughter.
"What happened last night?" Polly asks, setting her teacup aside, not understanding what her eldest nephew is talking about.
"None of your business, Arthur" Tommy replies and sits down in a chair.
"Is she your new whore?"
Polly looks at Thomas angrily from her chair "What the fuck did I tell you about bringing whores into this house?"
Tommy sighs tired of listening to his family and, once again, ignores them. He takes a puff on his cigarette and tries to glance at the newspaper but finds it impossible, his mind only travels back to the night before, to him and you in his bed. How you connected so quickly both emotionally and physically, after sex the two of you talked about absolutely everything in the middle of the night, you talked about horses, about your former life before your mother died, about Thomas's mother, and he confessed to you about the guns and the inspector who is in town looking for them.
(Y/N) advised him to keep them hidden and not to tell his brothers, they might get blood on the guns and there would be no turning back. Tommy would take her advice, he always knew she was smart and listening to her talk strategy was quite enjoyable. His thoughts faded as she entered the kitchen.
"Good morning" You greet Arthur and Polly, dodging Tommy's gaze.
"Morning sis," Arthur gets up from his chair to approach you, "Tell me, you're closer to Tommy's room aren't you, he was fucking a woman all fucking night, eh? I could hear her screams from the other side and I don't even want to imagine what you heard."
You clear your throat, trying to shake off your nervousness. "Actually, I went out with a friend last night and didn't get back until this morning."
"That explains why I heard your door open last night and also this morning" Polly comments and looks you in the eye but you turn away, making yourself a cup of tea, if she looked you in the eye she would know you were lying.
Tommy throws his cigarette in the fireplace and gets up to walk to the door "There will be a family meeting at eight o'clock today, I want you all there, including you (Y/N)." He calls your name and your eyes meet before he opens the door and walks out of the house.
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He grabs your dress and pulls it up to your waist, pulls down your panties and does the same with his trousers and briefs, he grabs your hips and enters your pussy with no time to waste. You moan and lean against the desk as Tommy fucks you from behind, your buttocks bounce against his pelvis with each thrust, he brings a hand to your neck to hold you down and penetrate you deeper, he moans, forgetting where you were, forgetting that you're his Aunt Polly's adopted daughter, forgetting his responsibilities. At that moment he only cared about one thing: fucking you.
"Tommy... I fucking want to," you say, unable to control your panting.
"What do you want, eh? What do you want, love?"
"I want...ah, Tommy, I want to ride you" You try to say but lose consciousness as one of his hands moves down to your clit, stimulating it with his fingers.
He musters up all his strength to pull away from you and sit in the chair next to him, you grab onto his shoulders and Tommy eases his cock into your pussy, you push down and let his thick cock enter you. You both moan loudly, and start to ride his cock up and down, you close your eyes and let yourself be carried away by the moment, Tommy for his part kisses your neck and also moves his hips in time with your thrusts.
Grace and Harry look at each other uncomfortably as they hear the two lovers moaning in the office behind the bar, not knowing what to do, Tommy had forbidden them to talk about your relationship with other people, it was always the same routine in the evening, he would come in with his adopted cousin and they would fuck for several hours, at first they were quiet but when Harry accidentally walked into the office and found the gangster fucking (Y/N) on top of the desk Tommy had no choice but to pay him to shut up and keep the secret. Then the blonde waitress described them and he had to spend another extra buck.
Thomas wraps your legs around his hips and lifts you up to walk until your back hits the wall and he begins to fuck you against it. "My woman, mine alone, who do you belong to?"
"To you."
"Whose pussy does this belong to?" he thrust you hard, earning a scream from your mouth.
"Yours, it's all yours, Tommy."
"Mine, mine alone." A few more thrusts were enough to bring you both to orgasm, screaming each other's name. Thomas lays you on the floor and you feel your legs go slack as his cum spurts out of your pussy.
"God, Tommy. Hand me a piece of paper or something to clean myself up."
He looks down and then reaches between your thighs and scoops up his cum with his fingers and shoves it into your pussy one more time. "You're not getting shit clean, you'll have my cum inside to remind you who you belong to" Tommy pulls his fingers out of your pussy and licks them, tasting the flavour of your fluids mixed with his cum. He pulls on his trousers and boxers and walks over to his suit jacket where he has the cigarettes, lights one and turns around to find you pulling up your panties and stockings, "From now on we will fuck in a hotel, I'm tired of having just these quickies"
"These quickies?" You raise your eyebrows "Thomas we've been fucking for almost an hour" You look at him unable to believe what he's claiming.
"For me it is, plus it's dangerous to do it here, anyone can walk in and see us. Just like what happened with Harry and Grace"
"I agree with that." You cross your arms and look at him "Which hotel is it going to be?"
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You look up at the ceiling of the hotel room, Thomas was near the window, smoking naked, quite an interesting sight but your head was elsewhere. You had been fucking for months, hiding your relationship from your family, pretending you hated each other but in a cheap hotel room you were two lovers unable to control your desires. You felt fucking bad about lying to Polly every time you left for the night to fall into her nephew's arms all night, telling her you were sleeping over at a friend's house, just thinking about it made you feel like the worst person but you didn't have the guts to tell her the truth either, you just couldn't.
Tommy throws the cigarette out the window and closes it to focus his eyes on the naked woman on the bed, her gaze was lost and he knew exactly what she was thinking. He walks over to the bed and lies down next to her, pressing his chest against her back and wrapping his arm around her waist, he kisses her shoulder and she sighs. (Y/N) rolls over and focuses her gaze on the man in front of her.
"I know you want to tell Polly the truth but I'm not ready, Tommy. I need more time," She brings one of her hands up to touch his cheek "Promise me you won't say anything to Polly until I'm ready."
His pale eyes blink before he replies "I promise," Tommy props himself up on the bed with his elbow to bring his face close to hers and kiss her. In five months she had achieved what no one had ever achieved before: to have him in the palm of her hand.
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Polly enters her nephew's office with heavy steps, angry with him. "What the fuck, Tommy, is it true, tell me it's not true!" She yells at Thomas but he couldn't care less about his aunt's yelling.
"What the fuck are you talking about, Pol?"
She stops in front of him, watching him from across the desk where he is sitting smoking quietly "There are rumours, Tom. Rumours that you're renting a hotel room to fuck (Y/N), behind the backs of the whole family. Be honest, Thomas. Is that true?"
Tommy lowers his gaze to the cigarette between his fingers, he promised you not to say anything to Polly and that's what he would do "It's not true, Polly. I don't fuck your adopted daughter." He lies to her, she leaves the office angry, not because her nephew lied to her face but because he confirmed what she's long suspected: you and Tommy are together.
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irenethewoman · 7 months
Text
Mrs. Shelby - Chapter 8 - Leverage
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In September 1919, Birmingham, Ada eloped with Sean while nobody was home, wearing her wedding dress.
I received this news from the owner of the flower shop. Everyone in Birmingham knew I was from the Shelby family, but they also felt that I didn't fit in with the Shelby family - because of my Chelsea accent, because I didn't like conflicts, and because I always paid my dues. They were my informants, and they would tell me things they wouldn't dare say to other Shelbys when I "casually" chatted with them.
What did Ada see in Sean? She's now like a troublesome rebellious teenager, ignorant of the hardships of life, just enjoying defying authority, and willing to give up everything for her so-called love. But what about her lover? He can't even take care of himself, let alone her and their child. What about their future? Love? Where is a future without bread?
I tried to restrain my scowl and bid farewell to the flower shop owner.
I walked impatiently through the streets, trying to find any trace Ada might have left behind.
But I stumbled upon someone unexpected, Grace, the bartender at Garrison's.
She should have stayed at the bar…
I saw her tracking a man, so I changed my target and followed her cautiously.
Bright golden hair, a striking red jacket. I don't know where the police found this spy, and they didn't even bother with a disguise.
I muttered to myself, pushing down my black-brimmed hat.
This is… Small Heath, where the Irish Republican Army hides. I hesitated whether to continue. Even their leader knows me and knows I'm from the Shelby family. But it's best not to stir up any more trouble here, for now. We don't want to fall out with the IRA just yet.
But thankfully, the man disappeared in front of a shabby house. Then the female spy approached without any suspicion…
I hid behind the rubble and watched them tussle. MI6 is done for, that was my first thought. A gunshot brought me back to reality. The blonde woman had killed the man she was tracking. It was almost comical how shaky she was. She couldn't even hold the gun properly, and she wanted to be a spy?
But this was good leverage. After all, the Cheltenham races were coming up soon.
I smirked, clapped my hands, and stepped out from my hiding place.
"Look, there's a frightened little kitten here."
Grace pointed her gun at me in panic. "Who are you?"
"Why did you kill him?" I wasn't going to take off my hat here and let the Small Heath people see my face. I pretended to raise my hands and walked towards the corpse, examining the wound. It was an accidental discharge; you could tell. Her nerves were shot, and she wanted to be a spy?
"But this is a good leverage." After all, the Cheltenham races were coming up soon.
She hesitated. I pressed on.
"This is Fenian territory. They don't even like the police meddling here. Where did you come from? You know they prefer to deal with murderers themselves. What are you doing here with a gun? Waiting for them to trace the bullets on the body back to you?"
"I'm different. I'm a Shelby."
She compromised, and we walked to a quiet corner. She handed me the gun, and I handed her my hat. Then I watched her take off her coat and put on my hat. I gave her the directions and left.
I shook my black hair and looked down at the pocket watch that had fallen from her. Inside was her photo.
"What a fool." She had blonde hair, and I had black hair. Even if we wore the same hat, it wouldn't hide that. When she had completely disappeared from my sight, I stuck my head out to make sure no one was around, then calmly walked out, using her coat and pocket watch to soak up the blood from the body.
I pretended to have just discovered the body, pinched my thigh hard enough to make myself cry, and shouted, "Dead body!"
"A blonde woman… she killed someone… I was just looking for my sister and happened to hear gunshots… she pushed me down and threatened me with a gun, took my hat, and ran away."
I trembled, and someone helped me up from the ground. Most of the people here knew me, even the Irish Republicans. "She's a Shelby."
Perfect, that's what I needed. Let them recognize me so that I can distance Garrison's from the Shelbys.
The people here gave me a glass of whiskey, asked a few questions, and then let me go.
Acting is exhausting.
I walked through the eyes of the Fenian Club members.
When I returned to the betting office, Tommy told me about Ada.
I poured myself a drink and listened quietly.
I really didn't want to get involved. I was afraid I would shoot Ada's bastard of a husband in anger and then have to tie her back.
After he finished, I poured Tommy a drink and then took his cigarette and extinguished it.
"You have blood on you," he said, pointing to my skirt.
"Yeah." I smirked and proudly showed him my trophies - a ladies' pistol and a bloody pocket watch.
"Our barmaid, you know, I've never liked her, but she's a dangerous one, Tommy. She killed a man in Small Heath. It's all hers."
"They're Campbell's people." Tommy looked at the things on the table thoughtfully.
I nodded and sat at the edge of the table, playing with his tie. "I think so. Remember the police robbery last month? It didn't go to Garrison's. I suspect Campbell ordered it for her."
"Cheltenham races must be careful of her," I warned him. "She accidentally fired today, don't push her too hard. I'm afraid she'll cause trouble."
"When necessary, use the charm offensive…" I muttered quietly. It was frustrating, Miss Turner, to approve of your young prince selling his charms.
He heard my last words and laughed.
"Today Billy Kimber told me to bring the barmaid. He praised her beauty. And now I'm just glad I didn't let Billy Kimber see you."
"You should change your name, goddess of hunting." Tommy held me and kissed me. "My Athena."
It seemed he wasn't satisfied from last night.
"At least not here, please, Tommy… I'm afraid I'll have a phobia about this table." I held my face in my hands. "There are still people outside…"
Protests were in vain, but now there was an extra coat between me and the table.
Tommy bought Garrison's from Arthur.
"Arthur isn't the only one who's depressed," I kissed Tommy's face, "my little prince has that right too."
He just looked at me without saying a word.
I meant it. I didn't want him to be so tired, to keep everything to himself, to treat everything as his responsibility. I wanted him to talk to me about his troubles, his anger, not just the business problems I happened to encounter. I was willing to help him, to be with him forever.
Danny, the high-velocity shell, knocked on the door while I was still sleeping next to Tommy.
"Gosh…" I rubbed my eyes. Tommy signaled that I didn't need to get up
, and he opened the door and went downstairs with Danny.
I just stared at the ceiling.
Every time it was like this, as long as I slept next to Tommy and he woke me up, I couldn't sleep anymore.
But he came back soon.
I asked him what happened, but he didn't answer, just held me. So we sat there in silence until I thought he had fallen asleep. Then he spoke.
"I think I should thank Finn properly for bringing you to me."
Looking at those loving blue eyes, I was puzzled. "What?"
"The Irish initially suspected that the Peaky Blinders had killed him, but because of your intervention, they are convinced it's a police spy." He kissed me. "Danny told me that the Irish are angry, believing that the government they were negotiating peace with is a bunch of liars. And they are willing to pay a high price to anyone for the missing weapons. They'll come to Birmingham after I return from the races."
"That's good news." Even though I had anticipated all this, I was still happy to see Tommy's smile, which I hadn't seen for a long time.
"There's another piece of news, Dani." Thomas held my face and looked into my eyes. "Your grandfather is looking for you."
"Looking for me? Is the sun going to rise from the west tomorrow morning?" I scoffed.
My grandfather was good to me before. But that was when my father, Lord Charles Turner, was still alive. When the Turner family's affairs became known to the whole of London, he didn't lend a hand when my uncle, who had barely escaped, begged him for help. Instead, he had me, who had barely escaped, sent back to 10 King's Road, London.
I was still lying next to Tommy, and he was holding me, but we both spent a sleepless night.
I slept through until Thomas came back from the races.
"How did it go?" Long hours of sleep made me feel dizzy, lying on the bed and not wanting to move, just lifting my head to ask him.
"She bit Kimber." Thomas sat beside me, playing with my hair. "Before her gun went off, I took her away."
"How did you manage that?"
"The Irish should understand Kimber's position. She's a police officer." Thomas stroked my back. "He didn't want to go against the police, so he handed her over to me, giving me a certificate to legally manipulate the races."
"It's okay. One step at a time."
Our goal, of course, is more than that. Kimber's legal certificate? If that's all we need, we should have wagged our tails like puppies a long time ago, and Tommy wouldn't have let Arthur beat the Li family members to a pulp.
We don't seek peace or surrender; we only seek cooperation.
Since one mountain cannot accommodate two tigers.
Then we'll replace Billy Kimber.
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