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annasinterests · 9 months

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southern nights

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okay y'all. . . hear me out on this. . . i know southern nights by allen toussaint/glen campbell came out in the 1970s but it's sooo rdr2,, moreover i cannot HELP but think ab it in conjunction with my lovely rugged cowboy(friend) arthur morgan <3 also this is lowkey kinda long but i love it with all my heart so pls b gentle w meee

i will say that this is pretty self-indulgent and wrote it with the idea of a female reader (specifically for like one detail) so if this isn't what you're looking for i apologize :(

so like.. imagine this song playing at either camp from dutch's gramophone or at a bustling saloon in like saint denis (honestly what i imagine more in this scenario so that's what we're rolling w here) and the whole gang is there either drunk or tipsy or whatever

you've always had a thing for arthur as long as you can remember but always kept it to yourself because you'd actually die if it got out- you'd absolutely never hear the end of it from all the women and you'd hate if arthur got teased for it by the men

so you get a couple drinks in you and for most of the night you've been sitting by mary-beth and sadie while the other girls have been up on their feet all night dancing to all the other songs

every now and then your eyes wander to arthur and you smile at how cute he looks when he smiles and laughs with the other guys like john and charles and javier

and how handsome he is with his new short haircut and how he's dressed in all black with his sleeves rolled up and a few buttons left undone that exposed his chest in a way that made your cheeks warm up

and how the lighting also makes him look ten times hotter as if you didn't believe he could get more attractive???? but clearly it was possible

so when the song comes on everyone just lights up and gathers 'round and you see that molly and dutch are clasped together and so are john and abigail and the rest of them find their rhythm in the music

normally you'd frown at when even sadie and mary-beth left you to go join but you had enough alcohol in your system that it didn't even phase you

in fact, you were smiling and giggling at all of them, seeing that this was your family- as fucked up it got sometimes- and for once, everyone was able to let loose

and just when you thought that you were safe on the sidelines tonight, arthur swoops in and holds his hand out to you with the sweetest look

"c'mon, s'no fun without you!"

he makes you laugh when you hesitate by saying you get a free pass to step on his feet if it's the dancing part you're worried about

which it's not but you'll use the excuse and take his hand that perfectly encases yours

he throws you both right in the middle of it all and takes the lead into a foxy routine* which you fall into very easy, because again, it wasn't dancing that was the issue

and he seems to pick up on that very quickly but doesn't say anything because he's so focused on making sure he doesn't step on your feet and holding you and twirling you around and being enamored by how your skirt flares out every time like a princess

at one point when he pulls you back in after twirling your body is pressed right against his briefly and you don't notice the way he gets a little flustered because of.. well.. everything else going on

but his grin remains wide and he feels a flutter and ache in his chest and its not because of the alcohol

more than halfway through the song you get a little boost of confidence and slide your hand over his shoulder to wrap your arm behind his neck and you know it affects him by the way his arm snakes around your waist more

and you're both oblivious to how the whole gang immediately notices your proximity and how all the girls are giggling together while the guys are looking on with wicked smiles cause they know their boy's been sweet on you for a hot minute yets been too scared to be bold ab it incase you didn't feel the same (which couldn't be farther from the truth)

and once the song ends neither one of you really want to pull away but you do and he absolutely refuses to leave you alone for the rest of the night because he knows that something's started and he's determined to finish it at the end of the night before tomorrow comes and washes it away

so if you want another drink? it just so happens that so does he. he actually goes and either gets one with you or for you at the bar

you wanna talk to the girls? oh, he'll be around them too, taking all their (light-hearted) jabs at him just so he can be near you

when the gang rounds up again in a circle just to simply drink and converse, he's right there at your side again, standing so close his shoulder is constantly brushing against yours

and because you've all perhaps over-indulged in some adult beverages, of course you find yourselves huddled together and up in each other's personal bubbles, leaning in real close when someone talks because that's what everyone does when they've drank too much

so arthur places a gentle hand on your back to make sure that you're just in the circle as much as everyone else is, but also because he just really wants to keep you connected somehow

before you know it, you're relaxing into his shoulder as his hand rests on your waist again and it just feels so damn normal. like this is how it's always been

you feel yourself slipping and giving in, but you know he is too because of how you can feel his heart thumping against you and damn near out of his chest

while he enjoys the company and the time being had together, he feels the night dragging on and he's so desperate to get you alone

and he finally thinks he gets the chance when dutch hints at the idea that they should start rolling out to get back to camp and feels a nervousness building up

but you catch him off-guard when you take his hand and sneak away through a sidedoor to an alley while no one is looking and he laughs out of pure surprise

"what're you doin?"

"well one, i don't wanna leave yet. two, i know that wagon ride home is gonna be downright loud and obnoxious. and three, i'd rather be with you, so... walk with me?"

you're all smiles and so is he, and you stroll aimlessly around the town that seems to be busy at all hours of the day, hand in hand

you find yourselves near the outskirts of the town near the river when he starts to speak up and tell you how much fun he had and how good it was to see everyone getting along, as well as poking at you for being so hesitant to get up and dance since you did so well with him

you agree with him on the first two things and simply brush off the last bit, insisting that you had no idea what he was talking about, but you both knew it was just an act

he starts to say something else and then goes quiet and slows down, slightly tugging your hand to bring you back to him, which causes you to look at him with concern

he's trying to find the right words to say that every time he sees a pretty flower he wants to pick it and give it to you

that every time he leaves camp he makes it a point to see you last just so he can see your face and hear your voice because he doesn't know how long it'll be until he can do it again

that he notices every little thing you do and has written so many things for you and about you in his journal

that when you look at him, he doesn't ever want you to look away

and you're not making it any easier on him by looking ridiculously adorable while being incredibly confused and concerned, your eyebrows knitted upwards with expressive eyes that are twinkling under the dim street lights

he's fumbling over his words but you're able to piece them together little by little, a sweet smile growing on your lips as his hands are fidgeting with yours

"arthur-"

he snaps his head up at you thinking he's crossed the line, but the fear eases when he sees that you're grinning at him and slowly closing the space between you two, placing your hands on his chest

the corner of his lip curls up and his eyes are flickering between yours as his hands find their way around you like they have been all night

"i like y-"

you didn't even have to finish the statement before his mouth was on yours in something sweet and passionate yet eager and needy

the breaks between kisses were few and short, completely engrossed in one another and trying to make the moment last forever

when you finally did separate, you were both smiling and letting out breathy chuckles, acting all giddy like the couple of kids that you were

he leans in to your touch when you put your palm on his cheek and kiss the other side, being able to feel the warmth that'd been there all night

"take us home, arthur."

he reaches for the hand on his cheek and turns his head to kiss it, then dropping them both down and intertwining your fingers as you begin to walk back to his horse, his voice filled with such love in a simple response

"yes ma'am."

goddamn do i love that cowboy. i literally told myself that i wasn't even going to write anything else besides my ongoing fic rn but i just have such a soft spot for arthur it's unreal. also if anyone wants to like, properly write this and make it a thing please feel free cuz i was just spit ballin' with this lmao- the only thing i ask is to be tagged because i wanna love and support u <3

*if you don't know what a foxy routine is, just look up that phrase on google or youtube and there are a ton of videos w so many variations of this dance! however i don't imagine is as a foxtrot (where there's more distance between u and ur partner) so there's that to clear up any confusion if there is any! <3

#arthur morgan #arthur morgan x reader #arthur morgan x f!reader #arthur morgan drabble #????#red dead redemption 2 #red dead redemption two #rdr2 #rdr2 drabble #fluff #i love my cowboy bf #annawrites #annasmasterlist

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moonah-rose · 1 year

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Moments of lucidity come rarely to Dutch in his last few years. What happened on Mount Hagen, slaying the rat, that was supposed to be the end of it. That was supposed to be what silenced the voices in his head, what repelled the ghosts clawing at his neck, every night for the best part of a decade. It should have been simple. It would have been, if not for John. Why John? Why did he have to show up, on that same day? That boy had always been his pride and his curse. Seeing him brought back all the doubts, all the paranoia, still never sure how deep that boy's treacherous nature had run and for how many years. Micah was a rat, the undoing of his community, but that didn't mean John was fully innocent. His wife had taken the key for the money, that much he knew...and John had chosen her over him, the man who raised him, who gave him everything! He could never forgive that...Never.

He'd nearly shot the wrong one. If John had shot Micah first, if he had taken Dutch's own rightful vengeance, he might have pulled the trigger (before turning it on himself, he knows). Then he said Arthur's name. The snake dared to dismiss it, what happened, what he...They...Dutch kept his eyes on John, searching for the truth, while the boy begged him to speak. And for only the second time in his life, words had failed Dutch Van Der Linde. He'd seen too many of his sons lay dead at his feet. No more, not that day. He shot Micah. He let John and his damn family have the money. That was supposed to be the end. He just wanted to rest.

The years only brought more voices. More shadows in his sleep, his own anguished cries waking him in a cold sweat. A bloody cough followed by a gunshot. A hand crunching beneath his boot. He gave him all he had. He did. For god sake, he knows he did, he believes him, now please go away!

John is easy to track. Dutch finds him after less than a year. No doubt Uncle Sam will too. The fact he's still alive doesn't bode well for Dutch's convictions. But little John is a good and law-abiding man now, an upstanding husband and father, so much better than the filthy streetrat he once was, let alone the lowlives that took him in and fed, clothed and raised the ungrateful brat.

All Dutch does is watch. He sees his boy carry the hay to the horses. He sees Jack play fetch with Cain...No...Not Cain, that's him now. The wanderer. He sees Uncle drinking hooch before snoozing against a tree, and for a moment merry songs around a campfire while Sean makes a heartfelt yet slurred speech threatens to drown him in sweet nostalgia. He touches his own hand and imagines it's Hosea. They did it. They...No. Only John. The only one. Grief rears its head again, and his brain is an endless cycle of giddy cheer as he remembers the old days, to reliving each heartbreaking loss, to aiming his gun at John from that hill and fuming at what HE chose...and then wanting to claw out his own heart with regret. With shame. And on and on it goes.

He never gets too close. The Marstons never know he's there, that their own sponsor is watching over them...contemplating if they were deserving of his generosity after trying to stab him in the back. God damn snakes!

Then one day, he's passing by after hearing news about a new group of native boys stirring up trouble, and he decides to look in on them. On his snake of a son. Even that whore wife was looking big the last time he saw them. It's so much easier to let the poisonous thoughts speak the loudest these days.

They suggest burning the ranch, like he once did to that inbred crone. Its his, truly, paid for by his money! It all meant nothing. And all because that small-minded child of a man could not understand the truth. Because he could not keep his faith. That was all he asked. Faith. Loyalty.

He wouldn't have let him swing, never...But it would have been easier to let him rot. He should have.

The boy, Jackie, he's not playing with the dog today. He's standing oh so still. He's in black. Even the who...Abigail. Her name is Abigail. She's not big anymore. How long ago was that now? Two years? She's...also in black, face veiled. The wind carries her cries. For a moment Dutch assumes this is for Uncle, his time having finally run short, until he spots him too. No drink. Stood upright, his arm around Abigail.

And then comes John from his front door. He's carrying something large...No. Not large, not when Dutch realises what it is. They shouldn't make things like that so...small. Tiny. And they should never be carried alone. But John does. His feet look weighed down with a grief so crushing that Dutch feels it suffocating him from all this way. He can't see his face all that clear...but he knows him. He knows how that boy never cries, just lets his eyes shine with a lifetime of sadness.

"John...My dear boy...I'm sorry." He mutters, useless as always.

All the hatred, all the accusations, all the deceipt and lies shrivel to nothing. They're blown on the wind like ash. Dutch can only watch as John lays the coffin in the freshly dug earth. He takes off his hat...that familar black hat with the rope...and holds it to his chest. His wife goes to put something in, but her hands are shaking too hard and she nearly collapses. So Jackie lays it down in the pit. A pink blanket? Maybe even a tiny dress? A daughter. He had a little girl. Oh John.

It's a pain he knows, that he can share in, wishing that he could take it all from his son onto himself. The loss of a child. The sense of failure that you couldn't save them. No matter what took that sweet young thing from this world, he has no doubt John blames himself.

It's not your fault, he wishes he could tell him. He wants to hold his son. He wants to have the words again, words John can believe in like when he was young, words that tell him "I'm here and it's okay." He wants to...be...

It fizzles out as fast as it came. The voices return and dig their talons in deep before shredding his rotten carcass of a mind away.

He doesn't belong there. He isn't wanted. He...He let them down. Let them all down, left them for dead, let that snake seep his venom into his thoughts. Money can't make this right. Money meant nothing next to death.

A shell hardens over what little remains of Dutch's heart. John chose this life, he needs to take it for what it is, good and bad. Joy and pain. The best thing Dutch can do for his son is leave him be and pray that they never have to set eyes on each other again.

Because if they do...it will mean the end. For both of them.

#this was supposed to be a speculative meta post #about Dutch being a creeper and watching John at his ranch #and it turned into an angsty fic #as you do!#rdr2 #rdr2 fic #angst #john marston #dutch van der linde #tw: child death

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bluecatwriter · 6 months

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Arthur 1, 3, 12, 16

Thanks for the ask! :D

1. My first impression of them: I honestly don't remember what I thought of Arthur when he first shows up in the narrative; I joined Dracula Daily in July and was rushing through the entries to try to catch up! Like, I thought he was fine, no reason to dislike him. I think I really had my "oh" moment when Lucy died (the first time) and Arthur was grieving her— I have a thing for men crying, and I loved that unlike Jack he was so expressive with his feelings. What made me fall absolutely head-over-heels for him, though, was when he cried on Mina's shoulder. Forever fave after that.

3. A song that reminds me of them: I actually don't generally associate characters with songs (especially since a lot of the music I listen to falls into the songwriting style of "people in very specific situations"), so I don't have this connection. I'd be interested to hear what anyone else has to say about it, though!

12. Sexuality hc!: I tend to headcanon people "whatever makes the most sense for the fic I'm writing" (which can vary wildly), but my favorite headcanon is that he's demi-bisexual, aka he can fall in love with and be attracted to anyone, but he generally doesn't feel attraction until after he's formed an emotional bond. I think this fits well with how he relates to the others in the story.

16. A childhood headcanon: I favor the backstory that his mom died giving birth to him and that his dad worked hard to make sure that he had a wonderful childhood. He just strikes me as someone who comes from an emotionally stable background (unlike someone I know *coughJackcoughcough*). My favorite headcanon is in one of my fics, written from child!John Seward's point of view:

Arthur also confused John. The boy seemed to have no concept of proper and improper, much as his governess tried to instill good manners in him. Arthur was full of questions and exclamations, and often acted on impulse without the slightest thought of what would happen next. John hated it when Arthur came over to his house, because some easily-avoidable catastrophe would always occur. Arthur would want to smell a pretty flower in a vase, and the next thing they knew he had pulled the whole vase down on top of his head, and gotten water and flowers all over the carpet, and he was crying. Then John's mother would burst in and yell at John for not being the responsible one and keeping his friend out of trouble. At the Godalming estate, everything was different. When Arthur inevitably did something foolish, such as trying to get his pet cat to sit and play tea-party with them and then got his face scratched, no one ever blamed John for it. If Arthur's father was around, he would always give Arthur a hug and listen seriously as Arthur told him what happened. He would ask gentle questions, trying to help his son connect the dots between his actions and the consequences of his actions. John would stand by impatiently, knowing how extremely effective a stern, "I'm ashamed of you" would be with a sensitive boy like Arthur, and feeling oddly restless when Godalming never expressed disappointment or tried to shame him for the things he did.

(Ask game here. This is fun!)

#ask game #answered #dracula daily #arthur holmwood #OUR art #tokophobia

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lyrker · 2 years

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do you want the list to the music time stamps of Malevolent im keeping track of ? sure you do !

The year for them is 1934

John: You Call It Madness (I Call It Love) (1946)

Arthur: Faroes Song (Original piece by Arthur)

Another Piano Song Unnamed, I’ll call it Reminiscent. Whether or not all the “Reminiscent” pieces are the same or not, they are all piano songs. It’s more of a Category for the rest of the piano pieces that aren’t Faroes Song.

Ep 1 “The Dark World”

They are in Arkham, Manhattan

(after credits, very beginning, spotify timestamp -1:44) “You Call It Madness” plays low and then turns up from the radio dial.

Lyrics spoken:

“I can't forget the night I met you

That's all I'm dreaming of

Now you call it madness

But I call it love”

The audio fizzles out quickly and Arthur then awakens for the first time after his merging with John immediately after.

Arthur does not remember anything, John tells him who he is. It is the beginning of them simply calling each other “friend.”

-8:23, “Faroes Song”

John gets Arthur to play the piano to calm down. It’s the first time we hear the piano play, and it brings back some of Arthur’s memory in his panic.

Note the fact that Arthur plays this by memory and cannot see; pure skill

-20:55, “Faroes Song”

Arthur is talking about the strange abandoned house with the symbol on the door, the same on Johns book. Arthur and Peter had called it in, and they received the anonymous tip that the girl they were looking for was found dismembered in a field.

-23:07, “Reminiscent”

John is telling Arthur about the world he comes from (The Dark World) and how the Book was not from Arthur’s world. Things should not come back from the Dark World, though John is here.

-26:21, “Reminiscent”

John sees the outside for the first time while they get a taxi. It’s very low, almost unheard. It stops for a moment before continuing, louder, at 26:49 while John gazes out the window and describes the city and how different it is to the Dark World. He states he has no intent to ever return.

-28:06 “You Call It Madness (I Call It Love) we hear the fizzy static of a radio in the background, as if trying to connect to another station but not quite there yet,

28:23, “You Call It Madness (I Call It Love)” begins to play as John describes the scenery of the bookshop after Arthur asks him to describe everything. Arthur mentions the radio, John says he cannot see it, but somehow knows the song, while Arthur does not recognize it. The song fizzles out after singing “I can't forget the night I met you

That's all I'm dreaming of

Now you call it madness

But I call it love”

The radio continues to fizzle in the background.

-34:16 “Reminiscent”

Arthur asks why John seems to not remember anything much about who he is. John reminds him that time worked differently where he was.

-38:35 “Reminiscent”

It’s low and quite quiet. John asks Arthur where he saw the symbol again, after walking out of the bookstore. He begins to explain, but in deeper depth.

-40:46 “Reminiscent”

Arthur talks about missing his eyesight and valuing it.

-42:59 “Faroes Song”

John asks Arthur about the girl who was dismembered when they were searching the house with the symbol on it. Arthur mentions not pressing for details about the “bizarre” dismembering, and John gets aggravated and asks if he “even tried”.

#malevolent podcast #malevolent #yes i’m going full head on with this #Malevolent ep 1 #should i make a tag 💀#do i go back to Lyrker Unlurks #edit: yes i do #Lyrker Unlurks: Malevolent

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its-deputy-caleb · 3 years

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Hiii, could i have a request for how the gang members would react to meeting a historian or explorer in the wild?? thank you! I love your blogs sm!!

anon ily <3333 i went wayy overboard with these but i regret nothing bc this was soo cute and fun to write. I hope u enjoy and i made it gn for everyone. I only did the VDL boys for this but if enough ppl like it i might do the girls with something similar idk yet?

Dutch Van Der Linde

Dutch first laid eyes on you when you were hanging off the edge of a cliff after slipping when you got too close to the edge. He immediately ran over to you, helping you off the cliff and getting you settled back on your feet.

He seemed genuinely concerned and agreed to help you safely record the rock carving that was on the side of the cliff face, keeping you from falling.

You were a historian and had been studying these mysterious rock carvings after meeting an equally mysterious man, Francis Sinclair.

You didn’t see much of Dutch Van Der Linde after that until you ran into him again in Saint Denis in the saloon. He remembered who you were instantly and started up a conversation about your work where you chatted away for hours.

You became very close after that and he often accompanied you to Museums and fancy fundraisers that you were invited to.

He’d always get dressed up and complimented your finer outfits which was such a difference to the field gear you’d have on. You’d spend all night chatting away over nice champagne and dancing together before actually engaging with other guests but you didn’t have a care in the world with Dutch in your life.

Arthur Morgan

Arthur finds you standing in the middle of a field, flipping over rocks and staring numbly at what appeared to be a map in your hands.

When he approached you he soon learnt you were a young amateur explorer about to get your big break with a treasure hunt but you couldn’t find the gold bars for the life of you.

Arthur gave you a heart warming smile and held up a gold bar after retrieving it from his satchel having felt a little bad that he’d discovered it not a week before you.

The two of you laughed about it, calling yourself a fool for trying to find it for so long when it was clearly missing— the thought that someone took it clearly never crossed your mind.

Arthur was always a gentleman however and promised to make it up to you. After taking you to dinner and getting to know him better, you spent the next few days camping out and finding a new treasure together.

You travelled through caves and through valleys of flowers to find this treasure. Sometimes it was so beautiful that the two of you just stopped by a stream to let your horses rest and enjoy the scenery.

When you finally found the treasure you gave Arthur a big hug in excitement which caught him by surprised but he happily returned. He let you keep the treasure and wished you luck with more exploring but of course that wasn’t the last time you saw Arthur again.

Charles Smith

Charles meets you one day while you’re out surveying wildlife. You specialised in conservation, wanting to study and protect animal species.

Fresh out of the university from Saint Denis you’d been dying to get out of the confining city and explore the heartlands. That’s where a kind gentleman named Charles Smith had offered to protect you and show you around the herds of bison you’d taken to studying.

You spent days together riding the over the hills and following the herd as they travelled. While you were Charles told you all about his family and the respect and love they have for the beautiful creatures.

It was amazing the array of knowledge Charles knew about bison and you couldn’t stop the smile on your face as he told you about the characteristics of the bison. You rushed to take notes in your journal, knowing that all that he told you would help you study and protect these animals.

“Do you think it’ll actually do any good? The work you’re doing?”

“One can only hope Mr.Smith but I will do everything in my ability to protect such beautiful creatures.”

Even when you had to return to the city for study you constantly wrote to Charles, staying in touch and keeping him updated with all your work. It was hard to say goodbye to someone you’d grown close to but you made regular visits to each other long after that.

John Marston

You first found John in the saloon after a long day at work, in desperate need of a drink. Being a zoologist you instantly noticed the scars on his face and would’ve guessed a wolf was the animal that caused the damage.

The two of you instantly started up a conversation and shared all kinds of stories. He told you about being up on the mountain while you showed him the scar on your arm from your run in with a cougar.

You were collecting a compendium of all the animals across the heartlands and during the months you worked on it, you ran into John more than once.

He was always curious about your work and you often spent time together in the afternoon sun, showing him the animals you’d found so far.

“What about the stray dogs in town or do you only deal with cougars and wolves?”

“Well they’re animals too aren’t they not?”

Even though you couldn’t see John all the time, he often came along with you to see the wildlife and covered you when you were around particularly dangerous animals and you enjoyed every second you had with him.

Micah Bell

When Micah met you he had absolutely no idea what you were on about. In his mind the whole idea of a palaeontologist is ridiculous and made up, much less the fact that you chose to read books and study in your spare time.

At first he doesn’t do anything but mock your work but after running into you time and time again he finally started to come around.

He grew more and more curious when he saw the drawings in your sketch books of dinosaurs and even more so when he laid eyes on the fossils. But knowing Micah, he’s still incredibly stubborn.

“Ain’t no way that thing is real.”

“One needs an open mind to comprehend what’s prehistoric Mr.Bell. It requires a certain practice.”

Every so often on your work you’d run into Micah who’d be riding around on his horse, just passing by. By now you’d consider him a friend and your face lit up as he pulled a small ammonite fossil from his bag.

It wasn’t really your area of expertise but you could tell he wanted to impress you and seemed almost nervous as you examined the fossil. Nonetheless you could tell it was real and you let him keep the small fossil as a reminder of you until the next time you saw him.

Javier Escuella

Javier meets you when you’re down my the docks, trying to capture the sunlight and noticed him fishing.

Not wanting to disturb him you kept out of his hair until you heard him cheer loudly at a catch he managed to pull in. In your particular interest in animals, you couldn’t help but ask if you could take a photo of the fish he’d caught.

From then on the two of you became friends, often running into each other as you tried to capture landscapes and wildlife.

You’d always spend the day together and you’d show him how to use a camera while he showed you how to fish and play the guitar.

When you spent time apart you’d often write to each other to fill the gap. You’d always send pictures with little writing on the back of them while he sent you poems and songs that he wrote for you, promising to play them for you next time you’d meet.

In your personal journal you have the first picture you ever took of Javier, kept safe between the pages. He’s standing along the docks, facing the away from the water as he holds up a large sturgeon and a large smile.

You and Javier always stay in touch and after he told you of his chaotic and dangerous time in guarma he made light of it by telling you about all the different wildlife he saw while he was there.

Bill Williamson

Bill stumbles upon you in the wild by accident. He’s out scouting a lead when he ended up getting lost through the shrubbery and found you examining flowers closely.

When you told him you were a botanist he looked as if you’d just spoken a different language to him because he didn’t have a clue as to what that meant. Bill always made you laugh fondly at the confused look when you told him all the scientific names of flowers.

In Bill’s mind, a flower was a flower. There was purple flowers and blue flowers and even red ones but they didn’t have their own names.

The next time Bill ran into you he brought you what he thought was a bouquet of white flowers. Instead they were actually a species of weed that was poisonous when eaten but it didn’t stop you from smiling and hugging him which was the intended purpose.

In light of that incident Bill was actually curious about some plants, trying to learn about them more. When Bill went exploring with you he pointed out some of his favourites and you picked a few to put them in the brim of his hat for him to take him back to camp.

When you run into him again Bill tries to give you another flower, this time actually understanding the plant he’d picked was a Vanilla Flower Orchid or the Vanilla planifolia but he never learnt how to pronounce it unlike you.

With a high blush Bill placed the flower behind your ear and you pulled him into a hug, being careful not to crush the beautiful flower.

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ttuesday · 3 years

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Hello there! Thank you for writing all these amazing headcanons! <333 I get so much joy when there's a new post from ya!

I had a prompt in mind: what are the gang members like when they get reaaaaly drunk? Who gets sad & sentimental, who gets all funny and jokey, who is all sleepy, and etc etc etc?

now this is an interesting one hehe

Arthur

When Arthur's drunk, he does his absolute best to try to convince everyone he isn't that drunk. He tries to walk in a straight line to prove he’s ok but accidentally walks into Uncle.

He somehow has great hearing and joins in on every sing song within a five mile radius. Arthur could be talking to you on the outskirts of camp but if he hears someone singing by the campfire, he joins in immediately.

He gets into a very jolly mood when he's drunk and talks about anything and everything. He rambles on about so much he interrupts himself a lot.

If he's sweet on you then Arthur asks to hold your hand and he won’t stop holding your hand for the e n t i r e night. No matter where you go or what you do, Arthur will potter after you with his hand still holding yours. And whenever you look at him, Arthur has a big, proud smile on his face as he looks at your hand in his.

Charles

Who is this man? Where tf did Charles go? He acts very differently than sober Charles. Whatever idea springs to mind, he wants to do it. If he wants to do interpretive dance in the middle of camp then that's exactly what he does or if he decides to go skinny dipping at 4am then off he goes, trying to find a lake or a river.

One second Charles could be laughing so much he's nearly crying, a second later he could start sobbing because he remembered that time he accidentally shot a lawman's horse when he was trying to aim for the guy. Please hug him.

It doesn't matter how drunk Charles is, he can still yeet anyone over Mount Hagen and he can go from fun and goofy to deathly intimidating in under 1.5 seconds.

And if you and Charles are dating then he just wants to kiss you. He kisses your temple all the way down to your jawline before kissing back up to your ear.

Dutch

Dutch gets quiet when he's drunk. He just kinda sits there and stares off in a daze for ten minutes. When someone talks to him, it's like he buffers for a few seconds before responding.

But when he starts talking, good luck trying to get Dutch to shut up. And this man needs everyone to stop what they're doing and give him all of their attention when he decides to say a speech. And if one person stops paying attention then Dutch storms off.

Dutch really does believe he's unstoppable when he's drunk. And if you don't believe him then don't worry, Dutch has no problem spending three hours explaining how all of his plans are apparently bulletproof.

If Dutch is sweet on you then he tries to flirt with you. But the more he drinks, the harder it gets for him to string a sentence together. "Your eyes..." he slurs his words but tries to stay composed "they remind me... of uh... eyes".

Micah

Micah is so goddamn laid back when he's drunk. Strangely people tend to get on with Micah when he's drunk but by the time he's sober again he's gone back to being... well, Micah.

He's nice ? Which is so bizarre but he actually makes an effort to talk to people without antagonising them and instead of taking offence to comments, he laughs them off and sees it as a joke.

As long as the conversation stays light, Micah keeps his happy demeanour and he isn't even a bad loser when it comes to poker and five finger fillet. In a way, seeing Micah so friendly unnerves some of the other gang members because of how baffling it is.

If he's sweet on you then Micah will continuously asks if you'd like to sit on his lap. Of course he flirts with you but he's a lot sweeter than normal and tells you that you could definitely do better than him so he understands if you reject him.

John

John comes out of his shell when he's drunk. Instead of keeping his mouth shut, he says whatever he thinks of. Yeah he gets into more fights cause he doesn't know when to stop talking.

He can fall asleep anywhere and at any time. You could be chatting with him by the campfire and slowly feel him lean against your shoulder as he starts to softly snore. He once fell asleep while standing up right with one of his hands on a barrel for support.

When John tries to go to sleep when he's drunk, he's like a kid trying to go to sleep at a sleepover. John loudly says the most random words and makes random noises before he bursts out laughing, thinking it's the funniest thing in the world.

If John has a crush on you and he's drunk, he tries to be so helpful. He constantly asks you if you need anything. If you ask him to get you something then he walks a few feet away before completely forgetting what you asked for.

Bill

Let's be real, Bill's already a hothead when he's sober and he's exactly the same when he's drunk. He's very fast to start a fight but if someone lands one punch then that's Bill done for the night. Usually he's a better fighter but he has terrible balance when he's been drinking.

He tries to be productive when he's drunk, thinking that now's the perfect time to do some chores and to go on guard duty. Everyone knows better than to leave Bill go out on watch when he's like this. One time he tried to shoot a squirrel cause he thought it was going to run into camp.

Bill rambles a lot too, mainly telling stories from when he was in the army or reminiscing about different robberies he's done with the gang.

Bill can get really anxious so if y'all are in a relationship, he needs your comfort. His mind starts racing and he worries about little things so for you to be there and tell him everything is alright truly means a lot to him.

Javier

Javier gets very goofy when he's drunk. He's keeps things light hearted, joking about things but is still able to hold his tongue when needed and have proper conversations too.

Honestly, Javier is probably one of the most level headed people in comparison to the rest of the gang but because he tends to stumble and get his words mixed up, people presume he's completely wasted when he's had a few to drink.

This man LIVES for those 2am deep and meaningful conversations. He absolutely adores having them and being drunk helps him open up more about his feelings so he has no problem expressing his emotions.

Are you ready to be swept off of your feet, both metaphorically and maybe literally depending on if you'll leave Javier do that? He's such a hopeless romantic when he's drunk. If camp is near a field or woodland then he sneaks off, picks some flowers and shyly gives them to you.

Sean

Sean manages to go through every mood when he's drunk. Everything is funny to him and he tries to make jokes about whatever comes to mind. Usually he jokes about Bill and Micah which leads to one of them arguing with Sean.

That's when Sean gets angry and thinks he's able to knock out anyone with one punch. Normally he ends up accidentally walking into a table or tripping over himself cause of how focused he is at punching the air.

Then Sean gets all sad and sentimental, feeling sorry for himself cause he accidentally bruised his leg. He has no problem sitting on the ground and pouting for a while, hoping that someone will walk past and give him some attention for a while.

If y'all are dating then Sean will tell you over and over again how much you mean to him and how much he loves you. He just wants to cling on to you for the night and make sure you know how loved you are.

Hosea

I hope you're sitting comfortably cause Hosea's gonna tell you every single goddamn story he can think of. Hosea tells you funny stories, sad stories, how he first met John and how he conned rich people. He really likes to reminisce when he's drunk.

Towards the end of the night, Hosea eventually gets quiet and if there's a party at camp where everyone is celebrating, then he goes off by the outskirts for a while.

Hosea likes to sit back and watch as everyone enjoys the night. He can get very sentimental when he does this but he likes to enjoy the little moments of the night and savour it all.

If he’s sweet on you then Hosea makes sure you know how special you are and that you deserve the best. He doesn't necessarily flirt with you but instead wants you to know how great you are.

Sadie

When Sadie drinks, she gets sad. She doesn't mean to get sad but her mind wanders and she thinks a lot about everything that's happened in her life and how she's ended up where she is today.

She doesn't speak a lot and ends up getting stuck in her head with thoughts whirling around and around. It can get overwhelming which is why she isn't that keen on getting completely wasted on alcohol.

She doesn't like how crowded camp can get so instead she likes to go off and find a nice scenic area to rest. Normally that helps calm her mind but Sadie also gets sleepy by then too.

If Sadie likes you and feels comfortable around you then she leans against you as ye both sit there in a peaceful silence. And if you suggest it, then she'll hesitantly rest her head on your lap and fall asleep as you play with her hair.

Kieran

Kieran doesn't get drunk often. He hates waking up the next morning and wondering if he pissed anyone off or said something he shouldn't have.

He's very happy when he's drunk, only seeing the positives in things and always smiling. Kieran is still a little shy but he's more open to being involved with what the gang's doing, whether that be singing along to some songs or dancing with whoever to Dutch's gramophone.

Because of how involved he can become with the gang when he's drunk, he can get involved in a few fights or arguments. But contrary to popular belief, Kieran doesn't back down and makes sure to get his points across.

Kieran gets more confident after a few drinks and flirts with you more than usual. The more accepting you are to his comments, the more he flirts with you. Though if you flirt back then he gets very flustered.

#ayo idk why these are so fuckin long #I tried cutting them down #but they’re still long #so apologies for how goddamn long these are #anywhoosies #arthur morgan #dutch van der linde #micah bell #charles smith #john marston #javier escuella #bill williamson #sean macguire #hosea matthews #sadie adler #kieran duffy #idk why I decided to add Kieran in here too lol

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iamjessemccartney · 2 years

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GOD okay. Okay. the new remaster. the new theme specifically. towards the very beginning, john tells arthur to sit down at the piano and play something. and arthur, who is shaken to his core and fearing for his life, who is now both blind and trapped ways that he can't yet comprehend, who thinks he's just killed the only person he'd had left in his life- arthur, who does not remember anything and doesn't even seem to trust in his own name, obliges. he sits down at the piano and he puts his fingers on the keys and plays the first thing that comes to mind- the song that's become the theme to the show. it's lilting and sad, it fills the room with this forlorn sweetness, and afterwards, arthur remembers. he remembers everything. more than just what he recounts to john, it comes through in the hesitation in his voice.

and then in part 6. after arthur learns what had happened to them, after they just barely escape the hound in the hospital, they find themselves in this little town, and arthur starts to feel hopeful again. things aren't good, they aren't safe, and he knows that, but there's some spark inside him that drives him to keep going. and of course, he finds himself sitting at the piano in the music store. he reaches for the keys and he plays that same song from part 1. and now we finally know its name. faroe's song.

in part 9, we find out that faroe is arthur's daughter.

we find out in part 17 that faroe is dead. that she drowned in the bathtub while arthur sat in his study, writing music, with the door closed.

in part 1, the first song arthur can think to play, after he's lost everything for the hundredth time, everything except his name, is the song he wrote for his dead daughter. faroe. he sits down at the piano, and he plays her song, and he remembers everything.

it adds such a heartbreakingly beautiful aspect to his character. arthur lester is not a perfect man. he's not special. he's flawed. he's human. he's done unforgivable things and made irredeemable mistakes. but he knows this. he's haunted by the things he should have done, by the people he loved, by the person he should have been. and he takes it to heart. he lets it be part of him, he confronts it. he owns it. it weighs on him, to the point where it should shatter him to pieces, but he doesn't let it. he does his best to improve, and to grow, and to hold onto the things that are important to him- because if he lets them go, he lets go of that recognition. that commitment. if he lets them go, he lets go of who he is.

arthur sits down at the piano in his office. and the first thing he remembers on his own is his daughter.

#malevolent podcast #malevolent remaster #malevolent remaster spoilers #um. specifically #gossshhhhh it's. 3:30 in the morning again how do i keep doing this to myself #i made myself cry reading thru the transcripts earlier again #arthur: faroe darling?#me: 🥺😭🥺😭😭😭#if you haven't started listening to the remastered episodes. please do💖#they're so beautiful #i need to. go to bed #i need to go to bed #goodnight

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reddeaddamnation · 3 years

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How they realized they have feelings for you: Red Dead Redemption 2

Arthur: He fell for you when you had your first personal talk and shared more and more facts about yourselves. He fell in love with your laugh and the way you looked at him while he was talking. He anticipates when you go on missions together because he likes being close to you and to protect you. Husband material: 7/10 (he is actually scared of love because of Mary)

John: When you had a job together and had to go undercover and he presented you as his wife. He found himself liking the idea, especially after the previous evening when he found himself staring at you while you laughed with the gang around the campfire. Apart from that, you bring the calmness and harmony he longed for. Husband material: 5/10 (kinda irresponsible, disappears for weeks, can't handle any pressure)

Javier: He fell in love with the way you sung along and danced to his songs. He just generally loves watching you be happy and have fun. He will gradually start talking to you more and even throw in a playful flirt from time to time. Husband material: 6/10 (would probably leave you for Dutch sorry)

Charles: He fell for you when you cheered him up when he was in a bad mood one day. You took a long walk in the woods and he found out he liked your company, your voice, your smile. You bring him calmness and harmony and the appreciation he desires. Husband material: 10/10 (everything you would want in a husband - kind, caring, respectful, emotionally invested and serious about your relationship)

Sean: You can tell this smol bean is head over heels for you when he is constantly following you around and babbling about everything and anything because he wants your attention to be on him and him alone. And if you don't give him the needed attention, he will sulk and mope all day. Husband material: 6/10 (never shuts up and would probably run only at the mention of marriage)

Lenny: He actually keeps his cool and plays it sleek, charming you with words and actions. You remember that cowboy scene from Tom and Jerry where Tom was courting the white cat with smooth moves? That's our sweet boy Lenny right there. Husband material: 7/10 (he loves you but he wouldn't wanna get married any time soon. He'sjust not ready for that step)

Dutch: He fell for you when he got to know you intellectually. He could spend all day and night talking about the philosophy and plots in various books with you. He is a man who is attracted to someone who has class and intellectual baggage. Husband material: 4/10 (kinda manipulative, would drive you insane, would probably cheat as one of his many aliases and call it business)

Micah: He fell for you after flirting with you as a joke and it slowly turned into something more sincere. He found himself getting jealous when you talk to other men and would literally threaten anyone who catcalls you. He wouldn't leave you alone until you accept his proposals. Husband material: 2/10 (WHY) (Hunny you know he gonna cheat for fun)

Kieran: He fell in love with you when you stood up for him when Micah and Bill were bullying him again. He was literally bedazzled by the kindness you showed him and after that, he would talk to you at any given chance and never miss to say thank you. Stutters and blushes a lot but also thinks he isn't good enough for you. Husband material: 6-7/10 (you will definitely be the initiative one, he falls in love way too easily and will propose marriage as soon as possible but no shame if you're into that)

Sadie: She fell in love with you gradually after getting to know you better and found that your personalities are compatible after several jobs together. She actually takes a long time falling in love with someone or at least until she is sure of her feelings and ready to speak up about them. Wifey material: 10/10 (literally perfect)

#red dead redemption 2 #arthur morgan x reader #john marston x reader #javier escuella x reader #charles smith x reader #sean mcguire x reader #lenny summers x reader #leonard lenny summers x reader #dutch van der linde x reader #micah bell x reader #sadie adler x reader #red dead redemption preference #kieran duffy x reader

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moral-turpitudes · 3 years

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Swan Lake:

Masterlist | Rules | Peaky Prompts

A/N: This idea came to me at like 3 am and idk why, it’s totally not canon or whatever but it was fun to write. I also don’t know anything about ballet so don’t come for my neck lol.

Trigger Warnings: Swearing, Fluff, Angst, Slight Mentions of/Implied Physical and Emotional Abuse, Descriptions of Death/Fighting etc.

Word Count: 3,977

Characters: Thomas Shelby x Female!Reader

+ Jack Timmons (OC, albeit a shitty one)

Requested: No

Summary: After constant threats of losing her position in a prominent ballet company, Y/N feels trapped in her circumstances. That is until an infamous blue-eyed gangster stumbles upon her one night, helping her leave her past behind, because sometimes that’s the best thing you can do.

“One, two, three. One, two, three.” Y/N counted to herself as she rehearsed in the quiet concert hall. Her nerves still a mess as the ear-splitting voice of her department head played on a loop in her mind. His harsh words stinging as she continued on.

With every leap and pirouette, her toes and tired muscles screamed to be free from their routine binds that held them together. Her corset digging into her skin, the paper thin pantyhose ripping on her knees from a nasty fall, and her feet cracking and bleeding with each new pair of ballet slippers she broke-in. On nights like this, she often questioned what she was doing this for. Was it for glory? For money? For distraction? It seemed only time could tell.

Unbeknownst to her, a man looked on from the dark entrance. A cigarette in hand as he observed her movements. His eyes alert as he’d heard a man yelling moments before.

Smoke escaped his lips as he watched in silence. The only music coming from inside the woman’s head, her body moving in strict motions to the beat she’d memorized from the orchestra that would usually play during shows. Her instructors voices in her head, threatening to fire her if she didn’t do better.

She never thought that something that brought her so much joy could bring her so much pain, but that seemed to be how things went in life, at least for her.

As she ended her dance, she sat on the cold stage, untying the stiff slippers and wincing as the fabric clung to her bloodied feet. No matter the cloth she put around them, she always found cuts and blisters ambushing her skin. This was the price she paid for perfection. Dancing was her “thing.” Her one gift to the world. The one thing that she’d always have, that no one could ever take away from her.

But with tear filled eyes she looked up at the spotlight beaming down on her, the makeup that was once well kept, slowly being washed away by the tears rushing down her cheeks.

As she ripped her gaze from the blinding light, she thought she felt eyes on her. Feverishly blinking the colorful spots on her vision away as she looked out into the empty seats, where a set of blue eyes stared back, their owner stoic and unmoving.

“Hello?” She asked, her heart racing slightly as she painstakingly walked off the stage and down the middle isle towards the man. Trying her best to wipe her tears away.

“Sorry to startle you miss. Just observing.” He said gruffly, cigarette smoke escaping his lips.

“Why are you here...? What’s your name...? Who do you work for...?” She asked in a barrage of questions, her nerves frazzled as she stood before him.

His blue eyes pierced hers as he took in the state of her. Elegantly hiding the pain behind a powder pink façade.

“I stopped in while on business and I heard yelling.” He said, adjusting his peaked cap, the razor blades glinting off the dull light from outside the theater.

Her breath hitched in her throat as she realized what gang he was a part of. Remembering talk around the city that they were moving in on London. Making threats and crashing party halls more often than not.

“Everything’s fine, sir.” She said, wiping a stray tear from her cheek.

“You don’t look fine.” He said.

“You haven’t answered my questions, sir.” She said, deflecting his comments and looking at him skeptically. With a sigh, and a long drag from his cigarette, he spoke.

“My name is Thomas, Thomas Shelby. But you can call me Tommy if you like...” He said walking towards her. Her heart racing slightly as she stood in place.

“...and I’m a man who does bad things. But don’t worry love, I have no bad business with you.” He said, gradually walking towards door.

“Wait....” She said, looking around the empty theater nervously as he stopped in his tracks.

“Why exactly were you watching me?” She asked, walking to him.

He sighed as the cigarette burnt down to the last little bit, ending with him throwing it on the tiled floor and stomping it out.

“I wanted to make sure you were alright....and then I saw you dancing to no music. It intrigued me.” He said flatly.

“How so?” She said, crossing her arms at the infamous gang leader.

“Because I can hear it too.” He said.

“You memorized the song? How? You haven’t seen the show.” She said, walking down the stairs with the mysterious man.

“My mother used to play it at home and she’d dance, quite like you. I recognized the routine.” He said, standing near the exit. The streets bustling with people under the moonlit sky.

“You don’t look like someone who listens to music. Do you dance?” She asked, beguiled by the rather handsome blinder.

“I liked a lot of things before the war. Dancing was one of them. But now?.....No.” he said shaking his head slightly as he continued.

“Sometimes life has a way of taking things from us.” He said softly, lighting another cigarette as he stood before her.

“That it does.” She said, glancing at her tired hands as he observed her once more, how she stood and how her hair fell limply around her face, framing it ever so gently.

“I’m probably overstepping my bounds...Tommy. But uh, if you’re ever in need of dancing lessons...I can help. Free of charge.” She said, the thought escaping her lips on a whim. Her mind racing with wanting to dance anywhere but there in that dreadful theater.

“Free of charge aye? Do you make a lot at these shows?” He asked, his eyes boring into hers.

“No. I’m actually on my way out. Was almost fired for the last show. I wasn’t good enough.” She said looking down.

“That’s a shame. I thought you did great.” He said.

“Tell that to the department head. I’m tired of ruining my body for something that doesn’t pay. I’d rather do it for fun. At least then life might be worth living.” She said, nervously tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. Her pent up feelings slowly trickling out as the minutes passed.

“What do you do for fun, Tommy?” She asked, changing the subject.

He stood in thought, never really taking into account anything besides the noise in his head or the ache in his heart. Never giving himself the time for anything reminiscent of fun.

“I uh, work with horses I guess.” He said.

She nodded and sat in a chair near the exit, wincing and fiddling with the tulle of her tutu.

“So what do you say? Dancing or no?” She asked, a small smirk playing at her lips.

“I’ll accept your offer, on two conditions.” He said.

“Alright, what are your conditions oh infamous Mr. Shelby?” She asked, seeing a small smirk on his face. One that seemed to be uncomfortable, like it had been hidden for years.

“That you give me the name of your department head, and let me employ you.” He said bluntly.

“I’m not a killer, I’m just a dancer.” She said, looking down at her wrists. Bruises forming from many routines throughout the week and from her vile department head.

“You won’t deal with that kind of business. But I’d like to pay you. I can see that you work hard for what you want.” He said sitting next to her.

“You want me to dance for you? What like at some whore house?” She scoffed.

“No. You can dance for fun or teach or whatever it is you want to do. But a job with me, in my shop, can bring you the money you’re looking for. You won’t have to beat yourself up anymore.” He said, noticing the bruising hand prints around her wrists.

“I’ll think about it.” She said quietly, getting up and stretching out her arms, her muscles aching at the movement. Thomas headed towards the door abruptly, not wanting to keep her any longer considering he’d given orders to his brothers a while ago.

“Hey...” She said, stopping him.

“Mhmm?” He mumbled, lighting another cigarette.

“His name is Mr. Timmons. Jack Timmons. I hope you find him.” She said giving him a small, hurting smile before heading back towards the theater.

“Oh and miss?” He called back, making her turn around.

“Yes?”

“I never got your name.” He said.

“It’s Y/N...Y/N Y/L/N.” she said. Thomas nodded and reluctantly turned around, walking slowly into the night the next man on his hit list already buzzing through his mind.

As he stepped onto the cold London streets, he saw his brothers drinking and waiting by the car. Their faces covered in smoke-residue from their mission.

“Oi! What the fuck took you so long aye? We torched the bar down the road so we need to go.” Arthur said, taking a swig from a bottle of whiskey he’d stolen.

“I was doing a bit of legitimate business. Did you lot get the money?” He asked, revving the engine and peeling out onto the cold, damp roads towards Small Heath.

“Yeah. Got the whole thing. They won’t mess with us again. What kind of business were you doing in a fucking theater?” Arthur asked.

“Probably fucking one of the dancers.” John said, the toothpick dangling precariously on the edge of his mouth.

“I saw people leaving the show and decided to go there to clean off from our last raid. And I heard a man yelling at some woman there. He’s uh, been a bit of a problem but I can’t tell by how much just yet. He’s been working the woman to death for little pay...so I offered her a spot here.” He said.

“Why are you so caught up on the woman? What, is she gonna dance around the shop all day?” John asked, earning a chuckle from a drunken Arthur.

“I’m thinking she’d make a good assistant. I watched her after he left. She was the only one there, working on the same routine for an hour straight. Was bleeding by the time she was done.” He said.

“Well besides the woman, what are you wanting to do with the man aye? We’ve caused enough trouble here so far.” John said.

“I have a feeling this man is abusing the whole company or at least the woman I spoke to. She’s miserable, you can see it in her eyes. I only saw eyes like that in the trenches.” He said quietly, looking out at the sky through the thin windshield.

Over the next few days, it seemed her plight only grew as the dancers rehearsed, their instructors criticizing more than helping them as they moved to the beat. Y/N’s eyes fearful as their department head entered the room. The music stopping as they all sat on the stage as instructed.

Behind the stage, Thomas watched silently as the instructor eyed the women. The mans eyes only seeing money and fame instead of them as people. But his gaze seemed reserved for Y/N especially.

She was bruised from the repeated practice, the falls, and from the mans calloused hands that beat her beyond the theater walls. Threatening to fire her if she didn’t improve. Claiming he was “trying to save the company’s image.” Telling her she’d be working the streets in no time if she failed again.

Even though she tried her best, often putting in more work than her peers, it still wasn’t enough for Mr. Timmons and his dreadful company. The only thing getting her by was knowing that after the big show, things would settle down, knowing he’d go back to just yelling at her and occasionally at the others, instead of talking with his fists. But the pay remained the same, barely keeping a roof over her head throughout the years.

“Y/N, I’ve seen your performances these past few weeks and they’re all the same. The turns are too loose, your footing is off, and you’re out of step with the others. I don’t see why you can’t do better.” He said loudly as she stared him down. White-hot tears brimmed in her eyes as her face heated up in a mixture of anger and embarrassment. None the wiser to the blinder who’d watched it all unfold.

“Meet me backstage after this will ya? We have to discuss some matters over your position here.” He said, walking to the next girl and nodding his head. He moved on from each person giving small snide remarks, but they were nothing compared to what she’d gotten, and it filled her with rage. With a sigh, she wiped her tears and stood up. Decided then and there that she’d walk out. To make a scene like she’d dreamt to during the 5 years she’d worked there.

“Mr. Timmons...the only thing you’ll be doing backstage is shoving these up your ass.” She said, chucking the bloodied ballet slippers at him before exiting the stage and going to her dressing room, locking the door.

Thomas watched silently until Mr. Timmons excused the rest of them, leaving only him and the poor excuse for a man in the dimly lit area back stage.

As the man walked with a master key towards Y/N’s dressing room, Thomas quickly came up behind him. Hitting him in the back of the head with his gun and wrestling him to the floor. The man screaming through a bloodied mouth as he landed punch after punch to his face. Thomas soon removing his cap and slicing the mans eyes, blinding him instantly before shooting him.

Y/N watched from the doorway, dressed from head to toe in her normal clothes she’d came in with. Her eyes red and swollen from crying and her body aching from the mornings work.

She stood there silently, the sight of the man who tormented her making her smile slightly as she realized she was free of him.

“Y/N....” Thomas said, wiping the blood from his face as best he could as he stood up from the mans limp body.

“Thank you.” She said, sniffling a bit as she kept her tears at bay this time. Walking quickly out the door to the outside of the building, the cars whizzing by as the cold wind crept through her clothes.

Thomas quickly draped a nearby blanket over Timmons’ body, dragging it to the dressing room. But before leaving he retrieved the master key from his limp hand, locking the dead man inside as he cleaned up the mess from his handy-work.

As he looked in the bathroom mirror minutes later, he could see the blood on his skin, the metallic smell barely phasing him as he washed it down the drain. After cleaning up, he headed out the door, finding Y/N sitting on the pavement smoking a cigarette.

“Mind if I join you?” He asked, sitting by her and lighting his own, his hands bleeding slightly from the blows to Timmons’ face.

“Why not.” She said, fiddling with a pink ribbon in her hands that once kept her hair tightly in place.

“I’m sorry you had to see that.” He said, sighing as he looked out at the mid afternoon sky. The city bustling around them.

“It’s alright. I’ve wanted that to happen for 5 years. Don’t worry though, after knowing him, nothing really scares me.” She said with a small smile, relief finally hitting her as she realized she’d probably never have to face the man again.

“He’s dead though right? Like you made sure he’s never coming back?” She asked, her eyes still nervously scanning the roads out of habit as the doubt crept in.

“He’s never coming back. I’m burying him tonight.” He said.

“Make sure it’s deep.” She said, the bruises on her wrists more prominent in the daylight.

“Always do.” He said looking at her wrists with a clenched jaw. Knowing full well Timmons was behind it.

“I’ve uh, thought about your offer by the way.” She said looking down at the ribbon.

“You have aye?” He asked, flicking the ash from his cigarette. Her voice bringing him out of his thoughts a bit.

“Yeah. I’d like to try it out, if you’d still want me there. I don’t know what a ballerina could offer the company but, it beats where I was.” She said, cringing internally at all the painful memories which unfortunately often overshadowed the good ones.

“I’ve seen you work hard so far, so I figured making you my assistant would be a good position. You’ll come in at 8, and leave by 6 on most days.” He said.

“Most days? What happens on the other days?” She asked.

“On those days you keep busy so you don’t think about how or if we’ll return. You’ll help keep the shop in line along with my aunt Polly until one of us walks through the door. For your safety.” He said.

“Do all the assistants and secretaries work that late?” She asked.

“Only on those nights they do.” He said.

“Alright. May I ask one question?” She said.

“Mhmm.” He mumbled, blowing smoke from his lips. He stared at her while she thought over her words, her eyes not as miserable as before.

It made him feel better knowing that even though he couldn’t save the men in the trenches, he could at least save her. Someone who shared their same eyes, their same exhaustion, their same fear of not knowing what was next.

“Why me? You could hire anyone else. Any other woman for that matter. But you chose me...” She said, putting her cigarette out on the damp dirt road.

Thomas sighed for a moment, not wanting to tell her he couldn’t help but fall for a beautiful woman even though they’d just met. No matter her profession, he didn’t expect a ballet dancer to steal his heart so quickly and effortlessly.

“I could see you were different.” He said.

“How so?” She asked, his answer not enough as she looked into his eyes. They were like looking into the ocean, threatening to pull her under.

“When I came in after doing some business and saw you there practicing, you intrigued me. You were dancing with no music, but still trying no matter what happened.” He said.

“You saw me fall aye?” She said with a chuckle.

“Yeah, but I also saw what you did after....It’s always about what someone does after the fall, that makes a person who they are. I guess I chose you because you didn’t give up.” He said.

“And I thought it was because I was wearing a pretty pink ballet costume.” She said, smirking.

“That might also be a reason.” He said with a smirk. After a long pause, he spoke again, this time more quietly.

“For the record Y/N, I truly don’t see why the others treated you like they did....But I won’t hurt you. I promise.” He said.

“A man like you making promises? That’s a bold move.” She said, her heart racing as she held his hand gently, nervous to touch someone in a way that wasn’t done in self defense.

“I’m a bold man.” He said, squeezing her hand reassuringly.

“Oh really?” She said with a smirk.

“I can show you.” He said, leaning towards her as she did the same. She couldn’t help but feel differently towards him. He didn’t make her feel scared or on-edge like so many people before her. Instead oddly enough, the dashing blinder made her feel safe.

It was in that moment that he too realized he hadn’t felt this way in a while, since before the war. The only comfort he’d ever found previously was at the bottom of a bottle or beneath the sheets in a brothel. The feelings felt out of place, the noise from the war competing with the song in his head, the same one from her shows. The same one from years ago at home.

With a calloused hand, he caressed her cheek, looking into her as eyes as the sun shined into them. Their color illuminated by its rays as he brought her lips to his, a wave of relief washing over him as he felt her relax into the kiss instead of pulling away.

“So...when do I start?” She asked after he broke the kiss, her eyes trailing to his lips.

“Tomorrow. I can pick you up.” He said.

“Won’t you be tired from burying Mr. Timmons? I can drive myself.” She said.

“It’s not my first time burying someone love. I’ll swing by in the morning.” He said, getting up.

“Alright...see you then.” She said, a genuine grin forming on her face for what felt like the first time in years as she watched him head off towards his car.

Over the next few weeks, she became acquainted with everyone in the shop. Polly taking a special liking to her as she loved dancing as well.

“You’ll never catch me dancing ballet. Maybe a waltz but never ballet.” She said one morning.

“I can teach you, it’ll do you some good. Keep you strong.” Y/N said, thinking about how she’d get by with teaching in her cramped apartment.

“Tommy taking classes from you yet?” She asked with a smirk.

“God no. I think he only said that to get me working for him.” She said, thinking back to his first deal with her.

“What are you two talking about aye? We have work to do.” Tommy said, walking into his office where they sat in his chairs nonchalantly.

“Pol was just asking me if I’d taught you to dance yet. You did say you used to...but there would be no ballet of course.” She said, smirking at him as she blew smoke from her lips.

“Well, I have business at the races soon so I guess you’ll have to teach me. Especially since I’ll need someone to accompany me.” He said.

“I never thought you’d ask. What shall I wear?” She asked.

“Something red.” He said, giving her a peck on the cheek before heading out the door.

Their banter carried on like this months after her employment. The only thing different though was where she stayed. Everyone knew he’d had the hots for the woman as soon as he laid eyes on her in the theater. John joking that going to London was the best decision Tommy had ever made. Seeing as she helped him find himself again even if it was just in simple ways. From the nights spent keeping the sounds of the shovels at bay, to the weekends spent helping him learn a few dances. They both healed each other with each step. He never thought he would enjoy dancing or even something as simple as sleeping ever again, but she helped him and he helped her, and he felt the only way to pay her back was to help her still live out her dreams. Eventually converting one of their many rooms into a dance studio, where she’d help teach children on the side, without mean words and harsh fists beating her down.

By this time, she finally knew what she was dancing for, or more so who. And it pleased Thomas to see the life finally return to her eyes as she did so. Knowing that one of the best decisions she made was to dance for herself. Even if it didn’t garner any grand applause, she knew she had people who cared, and who saw the value in what she did, considering it was her gift to the world after all. Even if it was the gangly Shelby family as her audience, she knew it was better than any theater.

Thomas Shelby Tag List:

@msbzowy, @nofckingfighting, @aranoburns, @sighonahurricane, @ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes, @gaytommyshelby, @wowjeena, @fifty-shadesof-tommyshelby, @inglourious-imagines, @thebloodyshelbys, @tsolomons, @blinder-secrets, @reveparade, @shelby-fanatic, @ta-ka-shi-ma, @psychkunox, @peakyxtommy, @captivatedbycillianmurphy,@dreamwastakenx,

@lovemissyhoneybee @thomashelbyswhore, @xxbeckybeexx-blog

If you’d like to be added or removed, just send an ask/message! :)

#peaky blinders #peaky blinders imagines #thomas shelby x y/n #thomas shelby x female!reader #thomas shelby x reader #thomas shelby

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ithebookhoarder · 3 years

Note

Could I get something for valentines day to do with the Shelby gang? I really don't mind what or who. I just feel like I need a little love for the day...

Valentines Day Head-Canons for the Shelby Family

A/N: Of course you can, anon! Hope you have a great day, whether you’re celebrating or not. It’s just a day, really, so I hope this cheers you up ;) Sending so much love x

Masterlist:

Arthur:

This man would be nervous as hell that he’d mess up valentines day with you. He’s not exactly known for being the romantic of the family, nor does he have the sophistication of his younger siblings. In fact, he’s sometimes surprised you’re even with him at all.

That doesn’t mean he doesn’t try, though. Oh no, this man is going all out for the day and nothing is too much for you. He’ll have asked everyone, and I mean everyone, for advice about what to do to make the day special.

He’s not a many of many words so he lets his actions do the talking for him, giving you a massive bouquet of flowers as he comes to collect you for the evening.

“Arthur, they’re beautiful. You really shouldn’t have gone to so much trouble for me. I mean, you even got orchids - my favourites. How did you know?”

“I remember you told me before, eh? When we were at that place down in London. The one with the fancy window displays.”

“I can’t believe you remembered.”

But that’s Arthur. He’s utterly head over heels for you, which is probably why he turns bright red as you kiss him on the doorstep before hurrying back inside to put them in some water.

He’d also make sure to open every door for you the entire night, refusing to let you even lift so much as a finger.

In fact, he even pulls your chair out for you in the restaurant he’s taking you to, glaring at the waiter who was going to do it, in a clear sign to back away if he wants to escape with his life.

“Arthur. I saw that. Behave.”

“I’m on my best behaviour, love. Promise.”

“Oh really? What a shame, as I had kind of hoped you wouldn’t be, considering that I’m wearing your present underneath this dress.”

Arthur almost combusts there and then.

Screw dinner - he wants to devour you and only you. Maybe that’s why he practically drags you out of the door at the end of the night, making you laugh as you hurry after him, the two of you fumbling with each other like horny teenagers.

Needless to say, you spend the rest of the night wrapped in a tangle of limbs, lost in an haze of pleasure as you gift one another with your bodies.

John:

Now, considering his kids and the fact they are more than a handful, he knows just how important time spent with just the two of you is. That would be his first and biggest gift, getting one of the family to agree to watch the hell spawn long enough for you two to spend some time alone together.

It’s just you and him for 24 hours of uninterrupted bliss, with no crying children or screaming babies to think about.

True, it would be weird at first to have the house so quiet, but that’s exactly what you need for you and John to just talk to one another about anything and everything you’ve missed over the past few weeks. After all, he’d probably have been so busy with work he feels like he’s hardly seen you recently.

He’s also remarkably in-tune with you and knows exactly how to spoil you rotten.

“You do so much for me and the kids, it’s the least I can do, right? You deserve the world, but I guess I’ll have to do, eh?”

Who knew John Shelby was such a softie?

He’d have the day mapped out down to the finest detail: Breakfast in bed? check. A hot bath with wine and candles? Check. That new dress you had your eye on when you last went into town? Check. Making love for hours on every surface of the house? Triple check.

He knows how lucky he is to have you and would spend all day making sure you knew.

“At this rate, we’ll be having another little one to be bribe Polly to watch next year.”

“John Shelby! I swear to god I am not having another baby-“

“So you want me to put my clothes back on and not fuck you again?”

You wisely say nothing and kiss him instead.

“As I thought.”

Tommy:

Considering how busy he normally is, the only gift you could ever want from him was that of time. Time away from the stresses of the company or his family and their never ending messes.

It’s why you’re eager to subtly remind him about the date every chance you get in the weeks preceding it.

Little do you know, he’s perfectly aware of the day. In fact, he has plans of his own cooked up for the both of you… you just didn’t need to know that yet.

It makes the surprise all the more satisfying as he wakes you early the morning of, peppering you with kisses and encouraging you to get dressed.

“I thought people usually tried to get people undressed on Valentines day?”

“Patience, love. It’s worth it, I promise.”

You laugh and trust him, unable to deny him anything when he looks genuinely happy for once. That in itself is a gift, as is the chance to spend the day riding with him around the estate you called home.

Tommy is happiest on horse back, and you grin as you eye him clambering on his horse out front.

You’re quick to follow, not surprised to see he’d had your horse readied too. He really had thought this out, down to the route you take.

“This way, there are no phone calls or fucking distractions,” he explains, relieved at the utter delight in your eyes. “Not unless one of the staff want to grab a horse and come find us. Good luck to them.”

“They’d need it, especially if they’re stupid enough to risk me shooting them for disturbing us. They’d be idiots.”

Tommy laughs.

Eventually, he’d stop you both, just on the edge of the woods, revealing the next surprise as he pulls out a blanket and basket (prepared with Frances’s help, of course).

“A picnic, Tommy?”

“I told you it was a surprise.”

It’s the best surprise as you both sit there, drinking and laughing as the sky turns dark.

That’s when he lights a fire for you both, letting you huddle close by the flames, eyes gazing at the stars above you.

You listen to him telling you all about the constellations and the stories he learned as a child. The sound of his voice is heavenly and you could easily listen to him all night.

So much so, you’re quick to wish the night would never end, letting you two stay like this, wrapped peacefully in each other’s arms forever.

Finn:

This literal angel is sweet as hell. Like, you better be prepared for the hand made card he’ll have made you… with Polly’s help, of course. He isn’t a hundred percent sure his spelling would have been right otherwise, but for you he’s willing to make the effort to try and write it for you. After all, you’ve more than likely been trying to help him learn to read and write since you started seeing one another.

“Aunt Pol… is heart spelt with two t’s or one?”

“One, Finn.”

“And does angel have a j in it?”

“No, Finn.”

Everyone else thought it was adorable and proof that he truly does love you. They’ve never seen him work so hard on anything in his life.

Your own card is much simpler, because you wanted to make sure he could read it without too much difficulty. You also may or may not have got a bit carried away with drawing hearts and other sketches to fill it instead of trying to use long and complicated words about how much you loved him.

However, neither one of you seem to care. You’re too happy with the cards you receive to care about your own possible mistakes.

You’re also too busy admiring how much of an effort each of you made with your outfits for your date. Sure, it was just drinks and dancing with some of the other teenagers in Small Heath (basically Isiah and his girl) but you’d both gone full out for the occasion.

“Is that suit new?”

“Maybe… John helped me pick it out. Why? Does it look stupid?”

“No, Finn Shelby. You look incredibly handsome,” you beam, toying with his lapels before linking his hand with yours. “I’ll be the luckiest girl there tonight.”

“And I’ll be the luckiest man.”

Oh yeah, you two are reals saps, just as most young lovers are. You’re all nervous glances, laughs and touches as you two dance the night away.

It would also be the night Finn kisses you for the first night, summoning the courage to do it as he drops you off back at your house, just a little after curfew.

It’s worth the risk and as you kiss him back he swears he’s flying the rest of the way home.

Micheal:

Micheal has had his plans in place for weeks, making sure every little detail would be perfect for the two of you. He’s honestly looking forward to it, enough to welcome his mother’s advice as she throws suggestions and tips at him the week before.

“Women like to feel special, Micheal. What about getting her a necklace? Or some chocolates? Fancy ones from France or something.”

“Mum, thanks, but I’ve got it covered. Promise.”

“Are you sure?”

Micheal laughs and tries not to be offended at her obvious doubt. Then again, he’s not always had a track record of being the most romantic or thoughtful with women. Still, he really cares about you and he’s determined not to mess this up.

It’s why he’s chosen the perfect place for you two to spend the evening together: your place.

He’s determined to spend the time just the two of you, and what better way to impress you than cooking dinner for you?

With the bottle of champagne he brought and your favourite records playing in the background, you’re quickly at ease, grinning as you watch him effortlessly chop, dice and season the dish he’s chosen.

How is peeling a potato so sexy when he does it?

It’s honestly impressive, but also because he’s putting so much effort into it which is a nice surprise. As is the way he dances around the kitchen with you whenever there’s a pause in the recipe or a particularly good song comes on.

You’re surprised at his soft singing voice as he holds you, humming along. It’s rare he allows himself to be seen in such a way, relaxed with no one to judge him for being soft or a little off key. In front of the other Shelbys he’s normally desperate to impress them, trying to be tough and nonchalant.

However, you know deep down he’s still the country boy you fell in love with when he first arrived in the city.

By the time you’ve finished dinner, the candles have almost burned out and you know where the evening is headed as you both start to scurry off to your bedroom.

Ada:

Ada is probably the most relaxed of all the Shelby bunch when it comes to special occasions. This is Ada we’re talking about. She’s also probably the most sane of the bunch, so she knows how to act like a normal person.

She doesn’t need anything big or fancy as a gift or some elaborate plan to make her fall head over heels.

A day in the park, with Karl holding both your hands as you walk to the duck pond, is enough to make her look at you with utter adoration in her eyes. She loves how well you both get on, becoming a little family of you own.

It’s why it’s no surprise you all have dinner together, with Karl helping to serve you as your two favourite people spoil you rotten. You normally eat together most days, even if Karl doesn’t normally wear a suit or call you ‘madame’ every time he passes you something like a mini waiter.

Ada smirks at the sight, informing you it’s all Karl’s idea - as is the card he thrusts upon you.

“I made the card myself!”

“You did? Wow, Karl. Look how amazing it is. I love the glitter on the heart.”

“I knew you would. Mum didn’t think so but I won.”

The look Ada gives you makes you want to laugh until you cry as you clearly sense the frustration she must have suffered in the pursuit of Karl’s artistry. It also explains why you’ve been finding glitter everywhere all week.

“Well, I love it. Thank you - both.”

You press kisses to both of their cheeks, grinning as Ada purred something about giving you her card later once Karl’s in bed. You’re eager to return the favour, impatient to give her your own card and gift.

It’s a framed photo of you all, taken one day when you’d all been at the local fair.

The sight of it is enough to make Ada watery eyed as she gives you yours, watching as you unwrap it and gasp in delight.

The book is the next in a series you’d recently started and fallen in love with. However, you were pretty sure it wasn’t supposed to be released yet.

“What can I say? Perks of having a librarian girlfriend with exclusive access to advanced copies we’re supposed to be holding on to until next month. I borrowed one and I’m sure they won’t notice.”

“Ada Shelby. You stole a book for me?”

“Borrowed. Not stole.”

You don’t care, too overwhelmed to do anything other than kiss her passionately.

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peakywitch · 4 years

Text

The psychic - Tommy Shelby

“Tommy trusts a psychic, and discovers a lie he’s been told”.

warnings: none, mentions about death, dead people, hell and Lucifer

word count: 1k~

requests are open!

masterlist

"A what?!"

The entire Shelby family screamed. Polly, Michael, Arthur, John, Ada, and Finn stared at Thomas in astonishment. He just smoked on his cigarette, exhaled calmly, and cleared his throat.

“A psychic,” replied the calm one, “the woman stopped me in the street. She gave me details of Grace that were private to her. He told me numbers that made sense. Not just Grace."

He smoked from his cigarette and Aunt Polly pressed her lips together. Polly hated Grace. While Grace was dead, and Polly was sad for her nephew, she couldn't help but be delighted to learn that the traitor had been killed.

“She gave me exact numbers. Do you remember, Arthur, how much we made with Monaghan Boy? " asked Tommy, calm as always.

"Well ..." thought the older Shelby. His recent fight with Linda did not favor his memory.

"Oh bloody hell, Arthur," Polly sighed "twelve thousand pounds, Thomas."

“No” he said “We made everyone believe that. The whole damn town of Small Heath thought we had won that, Pol. We made nearly twenty-five thousand, and no one ever knew. "

Twenty-five thousand pounds.

Finn's heart skipped a beat, as Ada pursed her lips thinking about how that money could have helped all the children who had been left without a father after the fateful war.

John smiled as he lifted his glass of scotch from the table in the house on Watery Lane.

“The girl didn't just tell me twenty-four, Pol. She told me twenty-four thousand two hundred and seventy. The fucking woman has something. So I asked her to come.”

Tommy forced a small smile as he drank his second glass of whiskey of the day.

"And what will she do?" Ada asked between sarcastic laughs "Tell us when we will get married? Or when will we die?”

"We will die sooner rather than later, that's for sure, if we continue to trust street people, Tommy ..." said Arthur.

————

(Y / N) was a strange woman, of that there was no doubt.

The entire Shelby clan was watching her carefully, trying to understand what she was doing with her candles, her incenses and her soft song.

"Very good," she said, "sorry for spending so long with this thing," she pointed to some dry leaves, which were smoking, "but the smell of crime here will only attract the damn satan."

Michael looked at her like a scared wet cat, while Finn and John secretly admired how much mystery could go into such a beautiful girl. (Y / N) took some cards out of her little handbag.

Polly stopped breathing: the tarot. The last time the letters had been read to her, she had been told that her daughter was dead.

"Will we play poker o’ what?" Arthur asked in a condescending and sarcastic way. The young woman began to move her hands, shuffling carefully and without looking at the cards, since she had her black eyes traveling through those iconic blue Shelby eyes, which they all had. Her lips whispered a mantra, almost mesmerizing. Shedrew seven cards.

One for each Shelby and Gray present.

The lovers, the tower, 9 of swords, the five of swords upside down, the sun, the empress and the devil upside down.

"Good," the girl smiled, "let's get started." He took the letter from Lovers, and looked at Shelby with the mustache. “Your name is after your father, but you have someone, Arthur. A grandfather a certain..."she began to think “My ... my ... Mikael? " the name came out dubious. "Maybe it's Michael, but he was Russian, right?"

Polly choked on her tea, starting to cough. Michael gently rubbed her back.

"Funny you are choking, Pollyana" (Y/N) whispered, Polly looked dead into her eyes. "Mikael is taking care of your daughter, Rosie Jane, isn't he? You know it, you know it's him because of the way she raises her arms and smiles: it reminds you of you.”

Arthur was about to cry, his heart was pounding. But he wasn't going to accept it, ever.

"But ..." she whispered, "you will have to make a decision" she said calmly, drawing another card, the two of spades "And it will be difficult."

"Fookin’ ‘ell," Arthur blurted out, then made his whiskey white.

The young woman shifted her eyes to Ada, raising the nine of swords.

"Karl doesn’t let you sleep, does he?" She asked playfully.

Ada laughed sadly.

“He ..." she sighed.

"He's sick," the psychic released. Ada's lip trembled. “He has had a fever for days and it does not go down. Take him to the river, make his body achieve a balance. Put his legs in the water, after he should nap on a bed of hay. And please, don't give the poor kid any more cow's milk, he's intolerant. And I know you can't handle Freddie's gas, so why would you have to tolerate Karl’s?”

The Shelby family bursted into laughter, making fun of their poor sister. With a smile on her face, the girl took the next card. The five of swords, reversed.

“John Michael Shelby" the boy's name left her lips with a somewhat pessimistic sigh. The psychic looked Shelby in the eye "You have signed your death warrant, John. Go far away, where they won't find you. A Luke is looking for you and will not rest until a bullet, with your name in another language, is between your eyes.”

John's eyes said it all: he was scared.

A cold sweat ran down her spine as her jaw clenched.

"America?" he asked, trying to sound calm. The girl's eyes darted around the house, what the hell was she doing? His eyes returned to John.

“No, he comes from there, but he comes from here too."

"England?"

"Europe." the woman sentenced.

With a sigh, his eyes went to the red-haired one.

"Hi Finn," she smiled, "or should I say ... congratulations?" she asked.

"What the hell do you mean by that?" he asked confused. Or at least pretending.

"What is her name? Charlize? Charlotte? Charlie? " she asked.

Finn paled.

"Then yes?" Finn asked.

"Yes." she blurted out. Finn, in less than two seconds, was on his way to his girlfriend's.

"Well, Polly," the girl smiled, "you're on the right side of life. And everything you hear...is true. Don't you hear it, Polly? The names, the dates...they are crying out for you, Pol, to help them. Is there a soldier...Mark? " she asks.

“So...she isn’t crazy then?" John asked, laughing curiously.

"Your mother says you are an idiot and you have the head of a cucumber" said the psychic.

This time it was Polly who burst out laughing, that insult was typical of her sister.

"Hello Michael." she said, as she grabbed the devil's card “Please free yourself from your past. I know it costs you, but go and exploit that water-thing that you hate so much. You are thinking about it so damn much that you are making me sick." Michael smiled scared and embarrassed. “Your foster mother's father, your grandfather Joe, will distract the guard that night. He also wanted to exploit that 'fucking wishful shit.'”

Michael smiled and laughed wistfully: “I’ll do it for him.”

“Good, Mr. Shelby. The cards tell me nothing more about you than we all know: your life is a complete disaster. But know that the only times you see Grace is at Charlie. His hallucinations are not real. "

All hell broke loose in Thomas Shelby's face.

"What do you mean?" he asked, keeping a monotonous voice.

"I am not being able to communicate with Grace, Mr. Shelby..." sighed the young woman.

"And what the fuck does that mean?"

"She may be in fuckin’ hell and that's why you can't communicate, my dear." Polly spat, smoking a cigarette Tommy closed his eyes and sighed heavily.

"Trust me, Polly. I have spoken to Lucifer himself." she blurted out casually "Mr. Shelby, Grace is not dead."

part two

#john shelby #arthur shelby #tommy shelby #finn shelby #thomas shelby #peaky blinder fanfic #peaky fucking blinders #peaky blinders #michael gray #polly gray #luca changretta #birmingham #john shelby imagine #alfie solomons #arthur shelby imagine #tommy shelby imagine #finn shelby imagine

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dex-xe · 3 years

Text

I’ve made Spotify playlists inspired by each of the ghosts and I’ve made these little written pieces to talk about them. if you wanna read them, please go ahead - if not then enjoy the music!!

This is the Captain's playlist:

Moonlight Serenade - Glenn Miller

This is one of my favourite like old WWII style songs, I just think it’s beautiful and really great to dance slow to (at some point in my life I will dance with my husband or wife to this song in our little kitchen, and then my life will finally be complete). It’s in Doctor Who (in The Empty Child) and Jack and Rose dance to it in front of Big Ben, like it’s a really great scene in one of the best episodes of Dr Who ever. So good and a great WWII song.

Soldier - Trixie Mattel

Yes, I know this is about Katya’s issues and everything that happened with that but like it is also like very accurate to the Captain’s arc. Like “soldier, take your time” is like yeah?? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I don’t believe the Captain is even remotely aware of the fact he’s gay cause like I don’t reckon he understands love or the fact that he’s got feelings like that, I don’t think he knows so yeah take your time to figure it out yeah, Captain.

We’ll Meet Again - Vera Lynn

This song seems to have taken a new meaning in pandemic times but Havers leaving Button House and (I assume) never returning but like the Captain staying at Button House completely in the dark as to what happened to Havers and therefore living with the possibility of Havers returning.

HEAVEN - Troye Sivan & Betty Who

Obviousssss, but this song was such an integral part in me figuring shit out about my life. Like, I was 14 and a massive Troye fan when it came out and (growing up in a working class, strict religious, small town family) the music video was literally my first understanding of the fight for queer rights. I knew about LGBTQ+ identities and identified as a variety of queer labels at the time I was completely unaware of the entire struggle that had come before me and seeing photos and footage of this fight for the first time was O.o Anyway, I'll stop talking about myself and say that I’m incredibly happy with the hc of the Captain trying to learn a bit more about queer history in his journey to accept himself.

In Our Bedroom After the War - Stars

The poor Captain, let the man love I beg. I have so much love for stories and hcs of the Captain being sweet and being in love like pls ily.

Achilles Come Down - Gang of Youths

This might actually kill his gay little soul but by good it would be worth it!! I’m gonna go off on a bit of a philosophy tangent but what were ya expecting from me honestly: the sample used in Achilles Come Down is an extract from a 1942 essay by Albert Camus who, alongside Kierkegaard and Nietzsche and the like, wrote about the concept of ‘the absurd’ which is a tricky concept but a reallyyyyyy simplified version of it is basically the idea that humans constantly search for a meaning and purpose for life and the universe but the universe does not provide answers to that which causes human distress. Basically, what I mean to say like isn’t that concept just so Captain?? Like he searches for meaning in war and can’t see life beyond the war because that provides him purpose, you know?? But yeah, it’s a banging song and I’m sorry about the tangent.

Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy - Queen

Ya saw this one coming :P Well he just is a good old fashioned lover boy so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

William, It Was Really Nothing - The Sm*ths

Even just the name being right is like *chefs kiss*. Yes there are lines in this song that are just shit and reallyyyyyyy show the views of M*rrisey and his general shitty behaviours.

It’s a Long Way to Tipperary - John McCormack

It’s just a fun song.

You’re Somebody Else - flora cash

LGBTQ+ staple really, ik it’s about being trans but I wanted to include it because of the recent Ben Willbond interview when he talks about how he’s interested in the contrast of a confused authoritative figure. Like the Captain is such a contrast and I love that in characters.

It’s Been a Long, Long Time - Harry James

Like I’ve said repeatedly, I wanted at least a little bit of time specific music for each of them I could. So yeah there’s a few for the Captain, WWII music is such a vibe tbh.

The Boxer - Simon & Garfunkel

I’ve always interpreted the song as being about loneliness and well, Captain my boy that you. Like he’s literally surrounded by people 24/7 but is so very alone. When the others are all watching tv in Redding Weddy and the Captain is just sat in the window watching for Havers is just so pretty and I think it’s really telling of the relationship he has with the others.

The Arrow and the Aim - Nadia Reid

Pretty pretty song, the voice is *mwah* but that’s irrelevant.

Ramblings of a Lunatic - Bears In Trees

Okay but like yes. The Captain is so alone like despite being around people literally all the time - not being able to escape you might say. Is he aware he’s different? Like what goes on in his head, will we ever know?? Cap, you gotta start talking to people, man. You gotta open up cause you will go crazy, Ik it’s been 70 years fella but seriously you’re gonna go crazy soon.

Death with Dignity - Sufjan Stevens

Just a beautiful song, and yeah with the Captian being the way he is and so focused on the war and military and the idea of "death with dignity" is pretty prolific. Given that we're fairly sure the Captain never saw any action, would he be considered to have died with dignity?? Maybe, maybe not idk.

I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major General - Arthur Sullivan & John Reed

That one scene where Alison is trying to sleep and the Captain is just sat beside her bed singing this. Like that’s so funny XD It’s his little head bob as he sings like that’s so good.

Kiss Me Goodnight, Sergeant Major - Arthur Askey

I remember my nan had an Askey record and she used to play it all the time and this always made me laugh cause 5 year old me couldn’t get the image of a really strong and tough soldier being all motherly and yeah I just wanted to include it :D

Teddy Boy - Paul McCartney

The Captain’s name is Teddy, I take no debate on this. Just the idea of the Captain’s backstory, like a childhood backstory for the Captain genuinely makes me cry. I know a lot of people have shared their stories of their interpretation of the Captain’s childhood and they’re all sad and I love them all :’) (Specifically a big fan of Operation Keep Calm on AO3 and what they’ve done with the Captain’s character and story, 10/10 would recommend but it’s not finished and I really hope it is at some point ily).

O Captain! My Captain! - The Static Shift

Just an interesting song, yeah? “I believe I’m in my prime”/“In my bally prime”, you get it XD

John My Beloved - Sufjan Stevens

I love this song (no I’ve never seen the film and no don’t really intend to) It’s just sweet, you know, and the religious elements etc yeah that’s good.

#bbc ghosts #bbc ghosts captain #Spotify

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lyrker · 1 year

Text

Malevolent ep 21, “The Unconquerable” Music Timestamps

John: You Call It Madness (I Call It Love) (Russ Columbo, 1932)

Arthur: Faroes Song, Faroes Lullaby (Original pieces by Harlan Guthrie)

Reminiscent: Category for all piano pieces that are not Faroes Song or Faroes Lullaby

Ep 21, “The Unconquerable”

Addison

-2:12 “Reminiscent”

The meeting is reminiscent to the first episode. Arthur tries to play along, but he gives in and tells the Entity he knows what he is. The Entity is skeptical, but Arthur tries to explain anyway

-3:34 “Faroes Song”

It’s light, slow and airy.

Arthur explains everything to the Entity. He tries telling him that he wanted to be so much more than the Kinf, to be human. He calls him John, and the Entity is confused. He laughs, and says the game is up.

-5:39 “Reminiscent”

Arthur finds his leg is fine. He realizes Katne did it on purpose to ensure he lives. He curses at the Entity for calling him friend. He is pissed.

-6:21 “Faroes Lullaby”

Arthur talks about Lilly. How John could forget who brought him humanity, had changed him. The Entity tries to threaten Arthur. It does not work.

-7:24 “Reminiscent”

Arthur is unfazed by the Entities threats. He threatens to send the Entity back to the Dark World, saying that the Glass of Cana can send him back. This is a lie. The Entity finally complies with Arthur and tells him what he sees.

-8:04 “Reminiscent”

The Entity describes their surroundings, notably a rifle mounted on the wall.

-10:42 “Reminiscent”

Arthur jumped the gun, tried to make the Entity remember anything, to no evail. This isn’t John. “You’re just Yellow” Arthur says. Yellow tells hom to send him back, but Arthur says he can’t, because he owes his friend to try and save him. Yellow says they owe each other nothing, that he’s a prisoner trapped in Arthur’s eyes. Since Yellow remembers nothing, Arthur says he’ll send Yellow back after he hels him find Anna Stanczyk.

Arthur says he was foolish to think Yellow was anything but a monster.

Yellow says Arthur is nothing but a mortal.

-14:22 “Reminiscent”

Yellow asks what happened to Arthurs hand, and he tells him about the forest. The wood looks like dark bone. Yellow asks if it hurts, and laughs when Artur says he would like that.

-14:55 “Faroes Song”

As Arthur changes, Yellow points out he is thin. Artur says he was nearly starved to death, and Yellow says that sounds like something he’d do. Yellow asks condescendingly if Arthur really beat him, and Arthur says he’d do it again.

-17:02 “Reminiscent”

Arthur says John used to be more appreciative of “this aspect of the job.” Yellow calls him weak, but Arthur says he was the farthest thing from it. He says weakness isn’t wishing to be mortal or enjoying life, but to think power makes you more valuable. Yellow says Arthur has the power to send him back, making Arthur valuable.

17:29 “Faroes Song” begins.

Arthur says power is not making him valuable, thats Yellow needing something of him, needing a mere mortal.

Yellow calls his logic stretched. He says his power makes him valuable, not who he is or his capability. He says he only needs him because of what he can do for him.

Arthur asls if weakness is needing someone for no other reason than who they are, and Yellow answers yes.

Arthur says that’s what happened to John, and Yellow calls him weak.

Arthur asks Yellow if he wonders why John yearned for humanity, and Yellow says it was because he had no other options.

Arthur says the fact that Yellow doesn’t question himself shows how limited he is compared to John.

Arthur says John is a better person than Yellow ever could be. Yellow points out that Arthur doesn’t question his own beliefs.

-19:05 “Reminiscent”

Jack Larsons name is on the paper. Yellow says the illegible handwriting is sad and pathetic. Arthur asks if he pities him, and Yellow denies.

-22:28 “Reminiscent”

Arthur is annoyed at how hard Yellow tries to win over every argument. He calls him a petulant child being told no for the first time. Arthur says, the first time around, he was scared, and thats what Yellow wants again, so hes saying things in hoping they stick to hold over his head. He tells him to just do the smart thing and work with him, and that gods shoudln’t care about arguing with a mortal.

-24:39 “Reminiscent”

They find a lamp in the storm, still hot. The snow beside is trampled, as if fallen on and then running. The tracks lead deeper into the forest. Where they stop, blood paints the snow, as if the person was dragged.

-27:12 “Reminiscent”

They fight over the fact that Yellow hardly remembers being the King. Arthur says he chpse this life, that he was helping Yellow. Yellow says Arthur imprisoned him. Before they can argue more, wolves enter the scene.

-28:44 “Faroes Song”

Airy, slow and light.

Arthur says he may be being unreasonable and unable to see Yellows perspective. Arthur says he did what he did for their frienship, and that it was easy to take away the parts of John he hated, especially when he hurt him. Yellows representation reminds him of the pain from both John and the King, but he says he may not be being fair. He apologizes.

Yellow is confused.

Arthur says he doesn’t know what Yellow knows or if he’s truthful, but he did force him here.

-30:28 “Reminiscent”

They come across a tavern, the Red Right Hand, three dead wolves hung by their feet at the front of the building.

-36:46 “Literal Hell”

A man in the tavern hits the piano. This cannot even be classified as playing it. After a moment, he actually begins to play an eerie tune as the rest of the tavern bangs on the tables.

The song speeds up as the people of the tavern dance.

Arthur begins to laugh, and the people begin looking at him. He begins to spiral as if being poisoined. The Bartender says there is a room upstairs, bed and bath for a dollar.

Yellow tells him they can’t sleep here, but Arthur makes his way to go anyway.

-42:30 “Reminiscent”

Yellow is at a loss for words from seeing the dancing. Watching people move without reason, simply to express. Arthur asks if he likes music, and Yellow says sure. Arthur says he played music, Yellow doesn’t care. Arthur says he knows, but he can hope he will. Yellow says humans hope so much, wasting so much on it, and that is why they are weak.

Arthur says hope is what gives people strength. Hope is about having the will to press on.

44:14 “Faroes Song”

Arthur recites a poem.

It goes as is:

“Out of the night that covers me.

Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance,

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll,

I am the master of my fate

I am the captain of my soul.”

Yellow asks if he wrote it, and Arthur answers no, someone more human than he, did.

Yellow asks why he shared it, and Arthur answers because its beautiful, it makes him feel strong. Yellow tells Arthur to sleep off the sick feeling. As Arthur yawns, Yellow says

“This, too, shall pass.”

#I HATE YELLOWWWWWW INAHTE HIM I HATE HIM #DIE #anyway #<3 #malevolent #malevolent podcast #lyrker unlurks: malevolent #back on my bullshit these work right

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siriuslyshewrote · 4 years

Text

To Build A Home

Bonnie Gold x Reader

Warnings - angst city, graphic descriptions of Bonnies death, etc. Swearing too.

There is a house built out of stone

It was a normal morning at the campsite - the early dawn light peeking through the cracks in the thin curtains that were pulled across the windows, the birds singing their usual morning song, the crackling of the fire just audible outside the vardo. It was mornings like these that were your favourite, even though you had grown up in houses, then grand manors when the Shelby Company became rich, it was this vardo that you adored the most, though perhaps that was to do with its inhabitant.

Bonnie was sat behind you, on the bed, combing through your hair (that smelt strongly of woodsmoke, after a night of sitting around the fire). It was something he had always loved to do, ever since you started dating, around three years ago now, and it was something you loved too. There was something of a domestic bliss about it, and it reminded you a little of John and Esme, how they were. The thought was both sad and nostalgic.

You were both in a comfortable silence, too tired to speak, really, though your mind was whirring fast, as usual. You’d known you were pregnant for a few days, and it was partially why you were hiding out several miles from Small Heath, at the campsite, lest Polly or Lizzie figure it out. You weren’t so sure how to feel about it yet, and it was why you hadn’t told Bonnie. You were sure it would make everything so much more complicated. Later, you’d wish that you had come out with it there and then, told him. Perhaps, somehow, that would make things end up different.

Bonnie hummed a tune that you had played him on your gramophone a few days ago, proclaiming that you wanted that to be the song at your wedding. He had laughed at that, swirling you around to dance.

Wooden floors, walls and window sills

“You still like that song then, Bon?” You leant back, looking up at his face with a grin.

“I better hadn’t I? If we’re having it at our wedding.” His eyes sparkled. You couldn’t paint, but even if you could, you doubted you could capture the way his eyes looked at that moment - mischievous and soft and loving.

“You better hurry up and propose then.” You laughed, jokingly.

“You know I’d propose today if I thought you’d say yes.” He grinned, wrapping his arms around you in a cuddle.

“It’s not me you have to worry about saying yes. It’s my family.” You replied. “Maybe we should just elope. That’d be great.”

“Wouldn’t you want Pol there? Or Tommy and the others?”

You sighed.

“Yeah, I suppose. It would just be easier, is all.”

You furrowed your eyebrows , as you thought again about the pregnancy. You knew it would be so much easier to tell your family if you were already married. But Bonnie was right. It just wouldn’t be the same without them there - it wasn’t how Shelby weddings went.

His fingers danced across your forehead, smoothing out the crease that had formed there.

“What’re you worried about, ves’tacha?” His voice was concerned, and that was enough for your pregnancy hormones to make you want to cry. He would be ecstatic to have a baby, you knew that. But you didn’t know if you were, and that was what was preventing you from telling him.

“I...” You began. Do it now. Tell him. “Well, I-“

And that was when the gunshot rang through the camp, echoing in the vast silent space.

Tables and chairs worn by all of the dust

You both sat up so quickly you felt dizzy, a glance shared between the both of you.

“What the fuck?” You breathed, as you ran towards the steps, coming to a fast halt when you saw Abarama (the man who had quickly become a father figure to you) lying on the ground, his shoulder already drenched in dark red blood. Nausea struck you, as you froze, Bonnie dashing beside you, his gun in hand, his eyes wild and frantic, scanning around the area. For the first time since you met, Bonnie didn’t know what to do.

This is a place where I don't feel alone

“Hello, hello, we are the Billy Boys.”

The singing was eerie and terrifying, the men’s voices echoing through the most for a few seconds, until they appeared, so many of them, that immediately your stomach sank. Silently, Bonnie pulled you behind him, and you gripped onto his hand so tightly it would have been purple, if you looked. But your eyes were focusing on these strange men, ones you were sure you’d never met before. The Billy Boys were known to your family, of course they were, but you’d never had any problems with them. Until now, that was.

“We’re up to our knees in Fenian blood.”

You had an urge that was screaming for you to run, to get away from all of this, but you stayed frozen, as Bonnie raised his gun. You wanted to tell him that it would be of no use, not against all of them. You were sure you were going to be dead in only a few minutes. It just killed you that Bonnie would be going down with you. Your eyes filled with unwanted tears. You’d never been in a situation like this before - there was always Tommy or Arthur, or hell, even Finn, and they always had a plan, and you were always safe, but this time, it didn’t feel as such.

“Don’t tell them who you fucking are.” Bonnie murmured so quietly that it barely reached your ears. You squeezed his hand in affirmation, as you found your other hand subconsciously reaching for your stomach. The word Shelby would only sign your death warrant.

“Surrender or you’ll die.”

What was there to do except stand there and wait for them to approach?

“We are the Brighton Derry Billy Boys.”

It was only then you noticed what they dragged along with them, like some sick reenactment of the Bible. The wooden cross was the only sound, dragging along the leaves and sticks and mud, for a few seconds.

“Drop the peashooter, son.” The man, at the front of the crowd, spoke, as he almost strolled closer, so casual that for a moment you could believe that perhaps they didn’t want to harm.

Bonnie’s shoulders were tense, as he hesitated, before dropping the gun. The only weapon you had hit the ground without even a rustle of leaves. His hand squeezed yours thrice - a signal that meant everything would be okay, though the gesture felt like a lie now. You both knew that nothing would be okay. But that was Bonnie. He would be your protector and comforter until the end. No. Not the end.

The men dragged the cross right past you both without a second glance.

This is a place where I feel at home

“A broken broom stops all Gyspy curses, Mr Gold.” The man spoke again, directing his speech to Aberama. How had they known you were here? How had they known his name? Who the fuck had given the Golds up?

Aberama cried out in pain, as they hit him with an object, and Bonnie visibly flinched, his jaw set, one of his fists clenched so tightly his nails must have been digging in. You closed your eyes, praying this would somehow be a sick dream.

“Who the fuck are you?” Bonnie spat.

“Did you not hear my song? These gentlemen are the Billy Boys. And me?”

'Cause, I built a home

You wanted to push yourself in front of Bonnie, as the man came closer, stooping down to pick up the gun that was just dropped, but all your limbs were frozen like ice.

“I’m Jimmy.”

You saw the gun swing, like a baseball bat, into the side of Bonnies cheek, heard the sickening crunch of bones, as he crumpled like paper to the ground. You fell beside him, hands trying to grasp at his face, trying to help in the only way you could, the damp soil cold against your legs.

“Bon.” You whispered, eyes wide as he looked up at you with those eyes, those goddamn eyes, that you had so adored only ten minutes ago, but were now filled with so much pain that it almost physically hurt you.

For you

“Mouth broke so you can’t talk. But you don’t need to.”

The blood covered all of his face, sickeningly, as he tried to push you away from him, tried to save you from whatever was happening - because he didn’t know himself. The pained noises made you want to weep.

“Your body will be the lesson.”

“No!” You exclaimed, fear so thick in your voice that it shook, as you threw yourself in front of him, because that was Bonnie. That was the boy who had held you whilst you cried after John, who had taught you to love, who you were sure was the person you were supposed to be with forever.

For me

Jimmy kicked you aside like a piece of litter, his boot meeting with your face so harshly that you fell to the ground, the soil mixing with the blood from your nose, you lips, split from the impact, though it could be nothing compared to what they were doing to Bonnie. You pushed yourself up on shaky hands, tears, blood and mud mixing together.

“Stop! Please!” They hit Bonnie again, and you tried to dive for him, to shield him with your body because that was all you had left to help him with, but soon you were like Aberama, held down with someone foot so harshly you could barely move.

You could only watch as Bonnie became unconscious , could only plead and sob as they dragged him towards the cross, your fingers digging into the dirt, your body still trying to move. It was too late.

Until it disappeared

The gunshot rang.

And that was when you began to scream, guttural ones that tore at your vocal cords like knives. Because Bonnie was gone. And nothing could ever be the same again.

*************************************************From me

From you

You sat in Polly’s living room, dazed, half unsure how you even got here. Like the movies Ada loved to go see, the scenes you had seen repeated over and over in your mind, like they were branded there. The tea she had given you was still clutched in your hands, but it was cold now.

The door opened. You barely registered it.

“Y/N.”

Tommy was stood there, hands in his pockets, and you looked away, trying to contain the emotions that spun around you like a storm. Flashes of memories between you and Bonnie appeared in your mind, but everytike you remembered his grinning face it was marred by the macabre horrors you had seen ... how long ago was it? Hours, minutes, seconds. It all felt the same.

And now, it's time to leave and turn to dust

“I’m sorry.” Tommy’s voice was quiet.

“You’re sorry?” You looked up at him, bloodshot eyes, a twisted expression. “You’re fucking sorry?”

“Love-“ Polly’s voice sounded from beside you, her hands going to comfort you. Like you had tried to comfort Bon.

“Bonnie is fucking dead! And all you have to say is sorry?” Your voice was raw and loud, as you stood, the teacup dripping from your hands, spilling all over the carpet.

Tommy’s eyes, the piercing blue, showed no emotion, though you knew it was there.

“He died for your cause! He died because of you! If you had never .. started this fucking hell of a gang, he would still be here! Don’t you see that! So would John, and how many others?”

Out in the garden where we planted the seeds

Tears were dripping down your face, as you stopped only a few centimetres from your brother.

“Y/N/N, I-“

“Bonnie’s gone.” You sobbed, falling into his arms, as they tightened around you. You didn’t know if you hated him or loved him, but you needed a hug from him right now. “And it’s all our fault.”

*************************************************

There is a tree as old as me

The sun was warm, the summer heat hotter than you had ever known it, as you sat on the steps of the brightly painted vardo. Flies buzzed around a little, as you watched children run around, laughing raucously, barefoot in the meadow. The steps creaked beside you, and you looked up to see Esme, holding her not-so-little-now toddler in her arms, a soft smile on her face, hand smoothing over your hair.

Out of all the women in your family, it had been Esme who you had always gotten along with best, and so it was to no surprise to your family members that after Bonnie passed you went to living with Esme, and John’s kids, in the vardo’s that you had come to know and love so much with Bonnie. Besides - you had both gone through the same thing - watched the person you loved killed.

Branches were sewn by the color of green

“How you doing, kid?” She sat beside you, looking out at the countryside like you.

“It’s been a year. And it still hurts just as much.” You whispered. “Does it ever get easier?”

“It’ll always hurt. John...” She trailed off, before taking a deep breath. “I still miss John every day. I always will. You’ll always miss Bonnie too. But it gets better. It starts to hurt less. Those memories you have... the ones that hurt you, they start to get replaced with the good ones you had together.”

“It’s still in my head. I see it every night.”

She squeezed your free hand.

“It’ll get better. You’ve just got to ... wait out the storm.”

Ground had arose and passed it's knees

You smiled sadly at her.

“I hope that storm stops soon.”

“It will. Besides.” She spoke, reaching towards the bundle in your arms. “You’ve got this little one. He’ll help you.”

You smiled at the sleeping baby in your arms, the tufts of curly hair that sprouted from his hair. He had his eyes, when he opened them, the ones you had vowed to paint, once upon a time. He looked exactly like his father, did little Bonnie.

“Yeah. He will.” You said softly.

I held on as tightly as you held onto me

#bonnie gold x reader #bonnie gold #bonnie gold imagines #bonnie gold imagine #peaky blinder headcanon #peaky blinders headcanon #peaky blinder fanfic #peaky blinders imagines #peaky blinders fanfic #peaky blinders #tommy shelby

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the-awkward-outlaw · 4 years

Note

Hey, can I get something with drunk Arthur trying to flirt with his wife (reader)? And he gets really sad when she says she's taken?

This turned out so cute! I need this in my life!

Masterlist

Read on AO3

Party! That’s exactly what this camp needs right now. The past few weeks have been nothing short of hell. First the Blackwater heist fails and then being chased by Pinkertons and lawmen up to Colter where you and everyone else nearly froze to death. Losing Davey and Jenny along the way and still suspecting that Mac may have followed his brother out. Poor Sean, everyone thought he wouldn’t make it either. It was a good thing Trelawney was keeping an eye on things down in Blackwater.

Uncle and Bill heave out the multiple boxes of beer and whiskey while Sean stands on the log used for chopping firewood and makes a speech about how everything will be better now that “Dead Eye MacGuire” is back. You giggle when he calls Arthur a grumpy old bastard and you put your hand on Arthur’s arm, knowing how sensitive he can be about things like this.

Everyone’s happy for the excuse to drink and let loose, so everyone soon has a drink in hand. Karen, Javier and Uncle sit around the table, singing. Karen seems determined to get drunk before anyone else can, but Bill and Sean seem to be taking the challenge personally. You’re happy to begin drinking too, but then you see Arthur, downing possibly his second bottle of whiskey.

“Take it easy, cowboy,” you say, patting his back. “You know how you are when you’re drunk.”

“Hey, we’re supposed to be enjoyin’ ourselves, ain’t we?” he said.

“Okay. But when you get a wicked hangover tomorrow, don’t tell me to stop you next time you try and get drunk.” You walk off and join Uncle, who has moved over to the fire. He, Bill, Javier and John begin singing “the ring dang doo”. You giggle, taking a swig of your own drink and join in.

“Hey wait a second, sweetheart,” Arthur slurs, plopping down next to you on the log. He then joins in on the song.

After the song, Dutch calls for something more civilized and turns on his gramophone, playing a classical piece. Since your butt has gone to sleep on the log, you stand up, grabbing Arthur’s hand, and ask him to dance with you. It’s obvious he’s already going a little deep on the drink, but he’s still sober enough to do so. He holds you tight against him, humming in your ear. You love it as he’s not often open about being physically affectionate with you in the camp.

As the night progresses, Arthur gets steadily more and more drunk. You’re not doing too good yourself, but you know when to call it quits, so you do. You’re sat on the log again, trying to focus your eyes on the fire in front of you, but feeling a little weird. You haven’t seen Arthur in a while, not since before Karen took Sean into John’s tent.

Someone sits down beside you. “Well ain’t you a pretty thing?” Arthur huffs in a rough and slurred voice.

You giggle and look at him. “You always was sweet.”

“How-” he lets out a soft burb, “how you know what I’m like? We ain’t… never met, have we?”

Looking into Arthur’s bloodshot eyes, it hits you that he is beyond plastered. Oh boy. But since you’re pretty drunk yourself, you decide to play along with it.

“Guess we ain’t. But you sure are handsome, mister.”

“Ah, I’m an ugly ol’ bastard, ask… ask anyone who’s met me.”

“I’ve met you and I don’t think so.”

He smiles at you, his eyes crossing a bit. “And you’d be the first. Tell me, wha’s a cute thing like you doin’ out here alone? Y-you got a feller?”

“Sure,” you say, taking a swig of whiskey, forgetting you’re trying to sober up.

He looks at you as hard as he can through his bleary eyes. “Y-you do? Is it just for fun or…”

“Nah, I’m married to him. He’s the best man I ever met.”

Arthur huffs and looks at his feet. “I’ll bet he is. After all, I bet you’re the sweetest lady ‘tween California and Chicago.”

You giggle again. “Mister, you’re makin’ me blush! Trust me, I ain’t that sweet.”

He looks at you disbelievingly. He smiles a bit. “So tell me about this feller of yours?”

“Oh he’s big, strong, handsome. Best rider and shooter I ever seen. Y’know, he taught me how to shoot a gun and ride a horse? Best teacher, too. I fell head over heels for him.”

Arthur grumbles a bit. “Yeah, I’ll bet you did.”

You don’t hear him and you go on. “He’s got these pretty blue eyes. I could stare into them for ages. They’re so pretty. And when he holds me…” you smile, thinking about how wonderful his arms feel wrapped around you. “Pure Heaven.”

“That so? Bet I could do better!” His squinting eyes are on you again.

“Oh yeah? Why don’t you prove it then, mister?”

Arthur’s eyes widen a bit, as he’s clearly taken aback. “Y-you serious? Your feller around?”

“Oh yeah, he’s around, I doubt he’s sober enough to know what I’m doing though. Don’t worry, he won’t be mad.”

“You was my girl, I’d be mad. Seein’ some big brute huggin’ my wife.”

“Nah, like I said, he’s off dead drunk somewhere around here. Trust me, even if he sees us he probably won’t remember nothin’.”

Arthur smiles a bit. “Well, okay. If he comes rushin’ over though, I ain’t makin’ no promises.”

You return the smile. He holds out his arms and leans over to you, enveloping you. Immediately you bury your head into his chest as his chin settles on your head. Man, he is warm! He’s always warm, but the alcohol has made him damn near hot. You sniff hard, taking in the intoxicating scent of his skin. You’ve always liked the way he smells naturally.

After a moment or two, he leans back so he can stare down at you. “There. How’s that compare?”

“Mm, pure heaven,” you say, smirking. Then you stretch up and press your lips to his. He doesn’t bolt back, and his lips move against yours. He sighs, his hand moving up to your shoulder.

When you remove your lips from his, he smiles. “That was good, miss. But I don’t think your man will be happy.”

“Oh don’t worry, Mr. Morgan. He won’t remember a thing.”

“In that case, would ya mind goin’ in for another?”

You respond by kissing him again.

***********************************************

In the morning, Arthur groans. He’s lying on his back in your shared cot. The only thing hiding his naked body from view is the blanket you both sleep under. He runs his hand over his face.

“You waking up finally?” you say, knowing exactly how he feels. Damn, you drank way too much last night.

“If this is what you call awake,” he grumbles. His bleary eyes open to see you dressing yourself, though you’re not at all happy about it.

“What… what happened last night?” he asks after he realizes he’s naked.

You smile. “Oh Arthur, you were downright sweet last night. I didn’t know you was a romantic drunk.”

He lets out a pleading groan, flopping back onto the bed. “I didn’t do nothin’ stupid, did I?”

“Well, by your standards, no. Like I said, you were cute.”

You let out a small giggle, then you lean down and place a kiss on his forehead before heading out to begin your chores. Smiling to yourself as you leave, you remember how Arthur was. If you know he’ll always be that cute and sweet, maybe you’ll have to let him get drunk more often.

#rdr2 fanfic #red dead fanfic #arthur morgan #arthur morgan x female reader #awkward asks

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