Unbreakable Connection

by MrsNShelby2021

Tommy was brought up to believe in his feelings, in his gut, his Ma told him that there is a true love for everyone you just have to be brave enough to want it and keep it to grab it with both hands an never let it go. When Ness was only six weeks old her parents moved from the south of England to Birmingham. She grew up with the Shelby's but one Shelby loved her more then anything

12. Barmaids don't count

AN, this is a warning to let all readers know this is an anti-Grace fic and a lot of Lizzie bashing. If you're a Grace fan then I advise you not to read. You have been warned more than once. I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and Happy New Year to all my readers.

Chapter 12,

Tommy's POV,

I woke up with my arms around my beautiful wife which brought a smile to my face, just thinking about what this amazing woman did last night regarding Freddie was well there wasn't words for how much I truly loved this woman. She is my whole world; my soul mate and I was so glad I married her when I did even more so with the bitch barmaid being around. I saw the smirk on her face last night when Polly came in the garrison blaming me for Freddie, I knew it took everything in Ness's power not to beat the shit out of her. I also knew we would have to keep up the charade of the family hating me for a while but knowing my wife was here and loved me was all I needed to get through the next few days.

I just couldn't fathom the barmaid thinking she would get away with it once we found out or her even thinking she could get away with it and we wouldn't find out. Did she not realise that the blinders run Birmingham? There wasn't a place she could go that we wouldn't find out about even my wife had the respect and loyalty of the blinders and that wasn't because she was my wife it was because she was that likeable. I couldn't wait to see the whore's face when she realises, we've actually played her and been feeding her false information all along. I was brought out of my thoughts by Ness's hand on my check which had me smiling and looking at her,

"Morning Tommy, you ok?"

"Good morning my love, I couldn't be better darling."

"Good, so I was thinking with everything that happened last night we should maybe check Danny's grave?"

"You're worried about Danny's grave?"

"Tommy I love Arthur like a brother you know that but we have no idea what he's been saying when we haven't been around in the garrison or even what the barmaid's heard while eavesdropping cause we both know she likes to do that."

"We can go this morning my love, we need to get out for a bit this morning anyway."

"Gives us a bit of time to talk about what to do next Tom, we need to keep up the charade of the family being pissed at you for a few more days, I also think we need to make it hard for the barmaid to be able to leave the garrison too. That way we can keep close taps on her and make sure she doesn't meet up with the inspector and find out about Freddie before we're ready for her too."

I looked at my wife and smiled softly, I put my hands on her waist pulling her to straddle my lap. I kept one hand on her waist and ran the other hand up her back softly going to her hair and pulling her face to mine so our lips could meet. I pulled back but kept our foreheads touching,

"Have I said how much I love your devious mind my love?"

"You have Mr Shelby, but I always love to hear it."

I placed my lips against hers again before pulling back and tapping her magnificent butt which had her giggling at me,

"We should get ready; darling got a lot to do today."

She rolled off of me and stood up going straight over to her wardrobe and pulling out a black skirt and emerald green blouse, she took her night clothes off and put her underwear on with her slip following. Before she could put the rest of her clothes on, I got out of bed and walked over to her grabbing her waist and pulling her close to me. Her arms going around my neck which had mine wrapping around her, holding her close.

"You truly are beautiful my love,"

I kissed her lips softly, then pulled away going over to get clothes out for myself. Once we were both dressed, we made our way downstairs to see Polly and Ada both sat at the table waiting for us. I knew they were waiting to hear about the plan and what was needed to be done today. I sat down pulling Ness into my lap, I wrapped my arms around her waist keeping her close to me. I spoke up first,

"Where's Freddie this morning Ada?"

"He's still in bed with the baby, I heard you awake and thought it best to come down and find out the plan."

That had Ness speaking up,

"You and Freddie need to go to a safe house with the baby Ada, but you need to leave through the back way and go through all the back alley's so no one see's you. Polly will need to leave sometime today with a basket of food and make it look like she is going to Ada's place, let me make this clear Pol you need to be seen taking food and bringing it back. Ada you need to be on lockdown from now on, you and Freddie. But you will need to let one of us know where you are so we can bring you food. Neither you nor Freddie can leave that safe house, you hear me? This won't be forever, a couple days a week at the most but to safe you and Freddie this is the way it needs to happen. The barmaid cannot know Freddie wasn't arrested!"

Before any of us could say anything more Freddie was speaking up from the bottom of the stairs,

"We won't leave the house Ness you have our word, you put your neck on the line for me last night so anything I can do to repay you I will but anything I can do to keep my family safe I will."

That had me speaking up,

"My wife put her head on the line last night indeed, but you are family now Freddie and family look after each other. I will have a few trusted blinders escort you halfway to your safe house, they will keep you all safe and hidden from being seen by anyone. Polly, this is where you come in, you also need to talk to Arthur and John they have to play their part also. You have to be angry at me and Ness because she's defending me. This is where our false information comes in for the barmaid any chance you or the boys have for her to listen in on a conversation then start feeding her the bullshit we came up with before ok?"

With that all being said Ness spoke up,

"Ok we can do this guys, we are Shelby's! Now me and Tom have got somewhere to be we won't be long,"

She stood up and offered me her hand which I took without hesitation we made our way to the front door with me grabbing Ness's coat and helping her into it then grabbing mine. I took my cap out of my pocket and put it on my head opening the door and holding my hand out to Ness who once again took it without hesitation. We made our way out and closed the door making our way to the graveyard hand in hand. People nodding their hellos or saying hellos to us on our way it took us about twenty-five minutes to get there but once there we made our way straight to Danny's grave noting that it was all fine and untouched.

We stood at the grave with me letting Ness's hand go and pulling her to the front of me and wrapping my arms around her waist holding her close. We both kept looking around us making sure no one was around, we stood for about ten minutes, I placed a kiss on Ness's neck and spoke softly in her ear,

"Let's go then love, its all fine here for the moment but I will make sure blinders come by throughout the day to keep checking it."

"Ok Tom, let's go."

I pulled back so I could grab her hand again and we made our way back home, being with Ness there was never a need to fill the silence with useless conversation we could just be with each other in the moment. We got back to the house and I helped Ness take her coat off and put it on the hook with mine following we made our way into the dining room where I took off my cap and tossed it on the table, I then opened the betting den doors. We weren't home long before we heard Polly making her way back in, it was why I had opened the betting den doors, although some of the trusted blinders knew about Freddie we had to make sure the customers coming in could hear the conversations about Freddie as most of them drunk at the garrison so I knew they would talk about it over a drink which means the barmaid would hear about it also. Ness sat down at the table pouring us both a whiskey, we didn't have to wait long for Polly to make her way into the dining room. She put the basket of food on the table then walked over to the sink,

"Did you speak to her?"

She brushed past me before speaking up,

"She didn't speak back."

I could see from the corner of my eye, customers in the betting den acting like they weren't listening in when they were so I knew this had to be convincing so it would get back to the barmaid. She had to think she had won before it all blew up in her face with my wife kicking the shit out of her. Like me Ness didn't tolerate betrayal so the barmaid was gonna be in for a shock when she see's what Ness can really do.

I rolled my eyes at Polly's response, when I felt Ness take my hand which had me relaxing and taking a breath before speaking up again,

"Well, did you tell her?"

"I'll only tell her what I know to be true."

"It's the last time I am going to say this, it wasn't me who shopped Freddie Thorne!"

She turned to look at me which as much disdain on her face as she could manage,

"Tommy. I'd ask you to swear on the bible but you can't swear on that, can you? Nothing you hold sacred!"

"My wife Pol! My wife is fucking sacred to me and you know it."

She looked at me then looked at Ness before storming out, Ness stood up and closed the betting den doors then walked over to me wrapping her arms around my neck and kissing my lips softly which had my arms going around her waist and holding her close to me. I knew this was all an act and Freddie was actually safe with Ada but I could also feel the real anger from my family when they spoke to me it was something I had been picking up on for a while now and Ness knew about it too. We pulled away from each other at the same time, I moved my hands from her waist to her face and cupped it gently pulling her forehead so it was against mine.

"We need to sort black star day my love."

"When did you have in mind Tom?"

"I was thinking December 3rd love,"

"That's a few days away, doesn't give us a lot of time to plan but it's doable."

"My love all I care about is that you are safe, dealing with Kimber will make that happen."

"Ok, so let's go to the garrison for a drink then Tom and I know you want to see what the bitch is up to right now."

"You know me so well Mrs Shelby!"

She ran her hands from my neck to my chest placing one hand over my heart and smiled at me,

"Indeed, I do Mr Shelby, just like you my handsome husband know me so well."

Instead of answering I just kissed her once more, pulling away and taking her hand in mine. We made our way out of the house and straight to the garrison. We walked in and saw Harry cleaning alone, I looked at Ness who was looking at me and frowning. It seems once again my idiot brother has left the bitch to go through the books, I knew Ness would be talking to Arthur after this cause she said she would leave the books alone as long as Arthur took responsibility for them but clearly he isn't doing that. We both walked into the office and saw Grace with the books open, papers everywhere and the diary spread wide.

This I knew was so she could get information back to the inspector, this was after all her idea putting everything in the dairy. I didn't have a problem with it until I found out who she truly was and understood why she was doing what she was doing. I stood in the doorway with Ness's hand still in mine, but I knew Grace wouldn't be able to see her cause she was behind me she looked up and smiled at me.

"There's tea."

Tea? Is she for fucking real? Do I look like a bloody tea drinker! I knew Ness was thinking the same because I heard her snigger, I walked into the office stopping by the desk which had Ness stopping next to me. As soon as Grace saw her, she frowned and I knew she was holding herself back from glaring at Ness but it wouldn't be long before she let go.

"The new system, everything in the diary, eh?"

"Mm-hmm."

I looked at Ness who reached into my coat pocket and took out my pen handing it to me, I then leant down and put a black star on December 3rd,

"Black star. What does that mean?"

"The black star day is the day we take out Billy Kimber and his men, no one knows this but us."

The hope I saw on her face in that moment had me wondering whether this bitch was right in the head! My wife was stood next to me with me holding her hand tightly in mine. How many other ways did I have to make it clear that I wanted nothing to do with this bitch! It was actually starting to piss me off and I knew it was pissing Ness off from the tension that she had in her body whenever we saw the bitch barmaid.

"Not even your family?"

"Grace. Everyone in my family hates me, why would I tell them?"

Ness cleared her throat which had me looking at her and smiling,

"Well everyone except my lovely darling wife of course!"

"That's better Mr Shelby."

"Sorry Mrs Shelby."

I kissed her softly then we both walked out with me slamming the office door closed. We walked out of the garrison smiling, I looked at Ness who was already looking at me.

"Shall we go see that beautiful horse of ours, Tom?"

"Why not love, we have a spare hour."

We slowly made our way to Charlie's yard we got about halfway when we were stopped by a blinder, by the name of Ollie he was one of Ness's favourite.

"I'm sorry to bother you Mr & Mrs Shelby but your needed Mr Shelby, a few of us caught some lads trying to steal from one of the dry storage units."

"Fuck sake! You got him?"

"Yes, sir we do."

I looked at Ness who was smiling at me,

"Sorry love, rain check?"

"It's fine Tom, go do what you need. I'll see you at home later."

I kissed her lips softly then pulled back,

"I love you Mrs Shelby,"

"And I love you Mr Shelby."

With that I walked away following Ollie,

Ness's POV,

Tommy walked away with Ollie and I changed direction to Watery Lane, as I knew Tommy didn't like me going to the yard on my own. I got the house and opened the door walking in and closing it but I stopped when I heard Arthur speaking,

"Tommy. He sometimes helps me with.. With the business, dad."

DAD? Was I hearing him right! Arthur fucking Shelby senior was sitting in this house! I stood rooted to the spot for seconds when what Arthur said finally reached my confused brain. Helps him with the business. Was he for fucking real? Tommy runs the business because without him Arthur would have left us all up shits creek without a fucking paddle. I stormed into the dining room and saw both Arthur's sat at the table, Polly was standing to the side and John was standing with Finn. I took a moment to analyse this before looking at Arthur junior and glaring at him, not only was I pissed off about his Tommy comment but I was really fucking fuming that he let this good for nothing piece of shit in the house.

"Helps you Arthur? Tommy doesn't help you; he runs the business because you're too bloody thick headed to do anything without your younger brother taking charge."

Before anyone could speak up Arthur senior was talking to me,

"Well well well! Little Ness. Still around I see."

I didn't even give him the time of day, I just stood there glaring at both Arthur's. Thankfully it wasn't long before the door opened and slammed closed with Tommy walking in, I felt his hand on my back before he stood next to me.

"Aye, well speak of the devil."

Arthur stood up and looked at Tommy who was glaring at him,

"How are ya, son?"

I was shaking with how angry I was, this man was possibly the murderer of my mother and he was stood there like nothing had happened. Keeping quiet right now was taking every ounce of self-control I had, thankfully Tommy could feel it and moved so he was closer to me and grabbed my hand holding tight and running his thumb along my knuckles. He didn't even give Arthur the time of day he shook his head at him then spoke up,

"Get out!"

I saw the look of disbelief pass over Arthurs face, when he spoke up,

"Come on son, I'm a changed man."

"This family needed you ten years ago, and you walked out on us. Not now! Get out of this house."

Arthur junior then spoke up,

"Tommy, he's different.

But Tommy didn't let him finish.

"Shut up!"

He then looked back at his father and spoke once again, what he said had this whole room in shock. Well, except me, I just didn't think he would ask in front of everyone.

"If you're such a changed man then dear ole dad, maybe you wouldn't mind telling my wife the truth about what happened to her mother? You see we've looked at the police reports and witnesses saw you leaving her mother's house the night she was killed! That makes you their main suspect dad."

Arthur looked at both me and Tommy before speaking but he said nothing about what Tommy asked him,

"Wife, eh? You married gypsy trash, son she's gonna turn into a whore just like her mother!"

That had me speaking up,

"Yeah? That why you killed my mother? Doing it for your buddy my father or did you not have the cash to pay for your time!"

He took a step towards me with a raised hand which had Tommy pulling me behind him,

"You touch my fucking wife and it will be the last thing you ever do!"

He looked at Tommy then looked at Arthur,

"It's all right, son Arthur Shelby never stays where he's not welcome."

That had me snorting and speaking up,

"Never stays where he's needed either!"

I saw him look at Tommy,

"Quite something you've become."

He walked over to Finn ruffling his hair,

"Bye, son."

Then walked out the house, Finn turning to watch him leave which had John tapping his shoulder to get his attention back in the room. You could cut the tension in this room with a bloody spoon the problem is it was all coming from fucking Arthur! Which was ridiculous, he's the bloody oldest he should hate his father more than anyone but then again he left everything to Tommy to deal with growing up so really he was like a damn child and his tantrum was just getting started.

"He's our dad."

"He's a selfish bastard."

"You calling someone a selfish bastard, that's a bit rich Tommy. I mean thanks, to you we're already down a bloody sister,"

That had my anger sparking, how fucking dare he! Ada was fine they all knew why she wasn't around; I took a step towards Arthur which had Tommy wrapping his arms around my waist and pulling my back to his chest.

"You want to see him, Arthur? You want to see him? You go with him."

Arthur stood up and moved towards Tommy, but then stopped for a moment he looked around him then walked out of the room slamming the front door on his way out. I really wish I could have hit Arthur in this moment because it shows what a child he really is. John and Tommy are both younger than him yet act so much older. I knew John hated their father and he had every right to do so, my prejudice aside I hated their father for what he had done to these boys. They were children when he left, they didn't deserve that. I was also hurt by Arthur's lack of reaction to the news of my mother and his father possibly being the one who killed her. I saw John was about to speak up when Tommy shook his head.

He pulled away from me and turned me so I was facing him, he cupped my face softly and brushed his thumbs under my eyes,

"Are you ok, love?"

I wasn't and he knew it but I wasn't about to say anything right now so I nodded my head, he could see what I was trying to say without me having to say it so he nodded his head then kissed my lips.

"Ok love,"

"I've got some work that needs doing so I'll be out for the rest of the afternoon Tom,"

"Ok love be safe. I love you"

"I love you."

I walked past Polly, then went to walk past John who put his hand on my shoulder and kissed my forehead which had me smiling at him. I then made my way out of the house and to the graveyard, I needed to see my mother right now. I got to the graveyard and sat at my mother's grave, her body wasn't here of course being of gypsy blood we gave her a gypsy funeral but I wanted somewhere I could come for a moment of peace with my mother so Tommy had this grave made for her. I didn't speak I just sat here and looked into nothing for a while, this was just the peace I needed after seeing the man that may well be my mother's murderer!

I thought while I was here, I could check on Danny's grave so I stood up kissing my mother's headstone,

"Bye Ma, I'll come see you soon promise."

I then made my way over to Danny's grave when I saw the bitch barmaid stop at his grave, this had me frowning what the fuck was she doing here? I walked so I was stood right behind her then spoke up which had her jumping and me smirking, some agent of the crown this bitch was she's not even aware of her surroundings.

"There a reason you're here Grace?"

She turned to look at me and frowned,

"Just paying my respects Mrs Shelby."

"If it were anyone else I would believe you but you see princess you didn't know Danny so why would you come out all this way to pay your respects to someone you didn't know? I have to wonder what your motive is!"

"I have no motive as I said just paying my respects."

"Well in that case then Grace I think it best you leave now, as I would like some time with my friend alone and you have a job to get back too. We don't pay you to pay your respects to people we pay you to pour drinks so I suggest you get back there before you actually find yourself jobless and trust me sweetheart that's not a threat but a promise."

She could see in my face how serious I was so she left shortly after, I stood there for about ten minutes just making sure she actually did leave I took one more look at Danny's grave then made my way out of the graveyard. I walked back to the house to find only Polly there which had me frowning,

"Pol? Where's Arthur?"

She looked at me and frowned when she saw my look,

"He's not here love, hasn't been back since this morning."

"Fuck!"

"What's up love?"

I knew I couldn't say anything to her about the guns being in Danny's grave as she didn't know but I could speak up about the bloody barmaid,

"I need to find Arthur but if you see Tommy before me, tell him the bitch barmaid was at the bloody graveyard looking at Danny's grave. He knows why I'm telling him; I have to go."

I left the house again in search of Arthur, when I bumped into Ollie the blinder from earlier and a few others,

"Evening Mrs Shelby, you ok?"

"Evening Ollie, have you lads seen Arthur by any chance?"

"No sorry, Mrs Shelby. Is there anything we can help you with?"

I stood there for a moment just thinking, if the bitch knew about the guns, then Tommy would be in shit and right now we didn't need that so I had to do something to keep Tommy safe. So, I looked at Ollie and nodded my head,

"Ollie? You trust these blinders?"

"Yes, Ma'am with my life,"

"Would you trust them with your secrets?"

"I would Mrs Shelby."

"Good, then you lot call me Ness and follow me!"

They all nodded their heads which had me nodding once and turning around making our way to the graveyard. We made a stop on the way at Charlie's yard we opened the shed and I walked in grabbing the shovels and torches, passing them to the lads I then grabbed two more torches and walked out closing the door. I didn't say anything to them I just continued walking we got to the graveyard and walked over to Danny's grave when I stopped walking and looked at the lads.

"Do you know what's in this grave?"

They nodded but it was Ollie who spoke up,

"Yes, Ness we helped Tommy put them in here."

"Good, that means Tommy trusts you which means I now trust you. This location is hot, which means it's no longer safe I am trusting you to dig these up for me, and help me get them somewhere safer tonight, Tommy doesn't know yet but he will do when it's safe to tell him. Do any of you know a trusted blinder with a horse and cart? We need to do this quickly!"

One of the lads stepped forward,

"My names, Billy, Ness my brother Robert can be trusted and has what we need."

"Can you get him here within twenty minutes?"

"Yes of course Mrs Shelby."

"I said call me Ness, then please Billy you fetch your brother and I will help these boys dig."

With that he nodded and left, which had me grabbing his shovel and turning the torches on, I looked to the rest of the lads,

"Right let's do this guys."

They all nodded and we got to work digging, thankfully because there was so many of us it didn't take us long to dig them up, so by the time we were finished Billy was here with his brother pulling the horse and cart as close as they could.

"Mrs Shelby, I'm Robert."

"Nice to meet you Robert, please call me Ness."

I looked around me and the boys and smiled,

"Thank you for helping me, we leave the boxes but take the guns out then we bury the boxes. We need to do this quickly so let's get to it,"

It was Ollie who spoke up again,

"We've got this Ness; you take a seat on the front of the cart."

Before I could say anything, Robert was speaking up,

"He's right Ness, there is even some whiskey you can help yourself too."

"Thank you, Robert."

I made my way to the front and got on with Robert's help, he then handed me the bottle of whiskey which I helped myself too. I had drunk half the bottle when Ollie made his way to the front of the cart.

"We're finished Ness,"

"Fantastic Ollie, climb on the back and let's go."

Robert joined me up front but I took the reins from him,

"You all on?"

"They are Ness"

"Thank you, Robert."

With that I flicked the reins and we were off, I knew of a location I could take the guns where no one would find them because this place was off the track so to speak, it was abandoned and had been for a very long time no one went there anymore. It took us about twenty-five minutes to get there, I hopped off the art and found the flowerpot with the key under it and grabbed it, I unlocked the door and waved the boys on. Once we had all the guns in the building, I closed the front door and opened the hatch on the floor leading to a basement that I used to use when I was younger. This place was my grandfathers on my father's side it was left to my father's brother who left it to his son who died in the war as his last living relative this place went to me but I kept it in the sons name so it couldn't be traced back to me just in case me and Tommy needed a safe place.

"Down here lads."

They loaded the guns into the basement and helped me close the hatch and cover it with the rug then we moved the sofa and chairs to keep it hidden. I looked at them once we were done and smiled at them all, I opened my purse that was attached to my belt and grabbed out ten pounds handing it to Ollie, who looked like he wanted to refuse but I wouldn't let him I grabbed his hand and put the money in it and closed his fist around it.

"Please, Ollie take the money. Go buy you all some drinks on me ok? You've done an amazing job tonight and Tommy will hear about this, I ask that you stay away from the garrison though, go to the Crown and tell them I sent you they will treat you well. I'm trusting you all to keep this quiet if anyone finds out I'll know where it's come from and it won't be Tommy blinding you it will be me!"

With that we all walked out, I locked the house up and put the key in my purse. I would keep it with me from now on. We went our separate ways once outside with a simple nod, I made my way to the garrison hoping Arthur would be there. I needed to talk to that fool big time, I got to the garrison and saw Jeremiah leaving so I rushed over to him.

"Jeremiah? Is Arthur inside?"

"Evening Ness, no he's at the fights I believe."

"Great thank you."

He nodded and kissed my forehead before walking away, I turned in the other direction and made my way to the fights. I should have guessed he would be here the idiot, I walked inside and most of the men turned to look at me but once they saw it was me, they looked away again. I walked up to a random man and tapped his shoulder.

"You seen Arthur Shelby?"

He looked at me and saw who was asking once he saw it was me, I could see the fear in his eyes,

"Yes, Mrs Shelby. He's over there with his brother Finn."

He pointed in a direction and I nodded my thanks, walking over with purpose how fucking dare he bring Finn to this place the idiot. I got close enough to see he was with his father, which didn't surprise me not after his performance in the dining room this afternoon. I heard them talking so I stopped to listen for a moment,

"Yeah, well, he's been different, you know, since the war."

We've all been different since the fucking war even Arthur himself has been!

"Yeah, well, a war can change a man. Speaking for myself, anyway."

How would he fucking know, I bet he never even fought in the bloody war not like he's sons did!

"Where did you fight, dad?"

I can't believe he was stupid and irresponsible enough to bring Finn along with him! Poor Finn was a damn baby when this arsehole left, he has no idea who that man is and I would be damned if I let him get his grubby paws on Finn now that little boy deserved better.

"Ah, all over, son, all over."

Yeah if that Vague answer wasn't proof enough then Arthur really is an idiot,

"Yeah, all over."

Fuck me! Arthur really was taking the award for idiot of the day today. How could he believe this bullshit?

I stopped listening when he mentioned god, did he fuck find god this bastard really was pulling it all out of his arse and Arthur was eating it up for fuck sake! This is why Tommy took over the bloody business because Arthur has no idea about anything. When I listened back in, what I heard next actually made me realise he was here with a purpose and that was money!

"The Shelby casino and hotel. Gents and dames will come flocking from all corners, New York, Chicago, Boston. To the Shelby, where I can stand proudly with my dear children by my side. And the women there, like fresh peaches, thou could have a dozen."

He put his hat on Finn's head,

"We'd all of us be kings!"

My husband was already a bloody king! And he didn't need your help getting there! I waited. I wanted to hear what Arthur would say before I made a move.

"How much? How much to get started?"

""The oak needs but an acorn."

"Let's do it. Let's bloody do it."

Oh yeah, I was punching Arthur in the face before this day was over with. What the fuck is he thinking right now? Can he not see what the fuck his father is playing at?

"It would make my heart beam, but I don't want to cause any discord between the brothers. So, please, why don't you talk to Tommy first."

"No, No, I'm sick of taking orders from him. Tommy's not the only one in the family with a head for business. And Shelby money is Shelby money!"

Fuck sake! Arthur you have no head for business you've just proved that right now! What a fucking idiot. Before they could say anything for me, I stormed over,

"Arthur fucking Shelby!"

He turned and saw me and he's face dropped, I walked over and grabbed Finn's hand pulling him to his feet.

"You are an idiot Arthur Shelby; I hope your brothers kick some sense into you before you get way over your fucking head. Let me make this clear you have no head for business that's why Tommy took over you were running us into the ground! You're a joke! He doesn't give a shit about you or your brothers he just wants your money and when you see that I hope it's not too late to repair whatever damage you cause between you and your brothers! Bringing Finn here also was a fucking mistake!"

I then pulled Finn along with me walking away from Arthur before he could speak. We got out of that place and halfway home when I decided to speak, I stopped walking and dropped down to my knees putting my hands-on Finn's shoulders.

"Finn, that is not a place for a little boy do you hear me? Tommy and John have been better fathers to you then that man ever was or will be."

I kissed his check and stood up taking his hand and walking him back to watery lane, I opened the door and walked in him seeing Pol at the dining table. I handed Finn off and then walked back out.

Tommy's POV,

I just left the inspector at Zhang's after meeting with him about the IRA member I had a meeting within the snug earlier. I was trying everything I could to keep the inspector busy with random shit so I could keep Ness safe from any blow back. I was on my way back home as it was pretty late when a blinder who worked with Danny came running over to me, telling me about the hit that has been put on my head. I nodded my thanks and walked off heading to the garrison instead. I turned the corner into garrison lane when I bumped into Ness who I could tell was mad as hell, I grabbed her hips to stop her from falling and caught her eyes.

"You ok, my love?"

"No, Tommy your brother is fucking joke."

"Come on, love let's go to the garrison. I need your help with something."

"What's going on Tom?"

"I've just had word that the IRA want me dead for the guns,"

"Just another Tuesday then love,"

That had me laughing, my wife took everything in stride,

"Correct, darling."

"What can I do?"

"Keep me alive?"

"Always Tom,"

We got to the garrison and I banged on the doors, Grace opening them and looking at me she stepped back so I stepped in pulling Ness with me. Once in Grace tried locking the door so I spoke up,

"Leave that open."

I let Ness's hand go and walked over to the other doors making sure they were closed and locked, I moved some chairs and made sure I would be sat on the right chair. I walked back over to Ness who was stood at the bar and took my cap off when Grace went to pour me a drink, I waved my hand,

"No,"

"Are you expecting trouble?"

"Yeah."

I took my gun out and made sure it was loaded,

"At this hour?"

"Midnight is as good an hour as any."

"What the hell is going on?"

Ness stepped closer to me and put her hand on my chest which had me looking at her, I knew she could see the fear in my eyes she smiled at me then nodded her head letting me know she had my back. I took a deep breath and placed a kiss on Ness's lips, pulling back but so we were still touching,

"I love you Ness,"

"I love you Tommy."

I pulled back but put my hand over Ness's on my chest making sure we kept contact, I then looked at Grace then turned back to Ness.

"When the St. Andrew's Bell strikes midnight, two IRA men are gonna come through that door. When they have what they want, they plan to kill me. It's your job to stop that happening."

I looked at Grace then back to Ness who nodded, she took out her gun and made sure it was loaded. I made my way behind the bar and gave Grace my gun showing her how to use it without getting to close to her.

"You could've given me some more warning."

I looked at Ness who was smirking at Grace so I turned to look at Grace smirking also,

"I'm not warning you now Grace, I'm warning my wife! They want to meet here alone!"

"Barmaids and your wife don't count?"

I sent a dirty look in Grace's direction then almost spat the words out to her ignoring the bit about my wife.

"Barmaids don't count!"

I walked back over to Ness grabbing her hand,

"You're gonna be in that back room, I'm gonna be sitting there. When I make a toast,

This time I looked at Grace,

"You're gonna come out with that thing raised. You don't shoot, you just point. I'll do the rest."

She picked up the gun then looked at me,

"Will you kill them?"

Ness stepped forward then,

"Nowhere in anything of what Tommy said did he say you could ask questions, princess. We don't have time for that,"

That had me smirking at Ness, even now she's still trying to stop the barmaid getting any information. Before Grace could say anything more, I grabbed her hand holding the gun and lifted it up.

"Just point, right?"

The Bell started ringing so I pushed Grace to the back and walked over to Ness, she put her hand on my cheek and smiled at me.

"I've got your back Tommy. If the bitch fucks up, I'm here!"

She kissed my lips then moved to the back room with Grace, I just wanted this night done with so I could go home and enjoy my night with my wife. I put two-pint glasses on the table with a jug of water and a whiskey glass. I sat down and checked my pocket watch, put it back in my pocket and just waited. I wasn't waiting long when they both walked in like they were Billy big bollocks I knew if Ness were sat here, she would be biting her lip to stop herself from laughing which had me slightly smiling in thought. Once they sat down, I pulled one a glass of water and the other some whiskey putting the glass in front of him where he then pushed it back towards me.

"Lost your thirst, eh?"

"Just show us where?"

I took the map out of my pocket and held it in my hand in their view,

"Give me the cash."

Water boy nodded to whiskey dude who took out the money and slide it across the table to me, I then put the map on the table in front of water boy.

"You're gonna need a shovel."

He picked up the map and looked at it nodding to whiskey Pete who then smirked at me and started chuckling,

"You thick fucking tinker. Did you think we'd let you live?"

"Make your peace Mr Shelby."

"I will make my peace my own way."

I knew Ness was pissed off with whiskey Pete she hated when people called me tinker well, she hated it when anyone called me any name really just like I hated it when they did it to her. I picked up the whiskey and raised it in the air,

"To barmaids who don't count."

I downed the whiskey when Grace came out of the back room and fired straight away, this was why I got Ness to be here I had a feeling this bitch couldn't do what was asked of her, and they were simple enough instructions really. She fired the first shot and missed which had me jumping slightly not expecting the shot, she fired a second time hitting whiskey Pete when water boy dived at me. We hit the floor both of us taking shots at each other when he got his arms round my neck, it sent me in a flashback to the tunnels.

I heard my name being called by Ness which brought me back to reality, I sent my elbow into his side knocking him off me when I saw Ness hit the barmaid in the face and came over to me kicking the guy in the face and getting him away from me. I saw his leg move to kick Ness which had me losing my shit, I grabbed the nearest thing to me which was a spit pan and hit him several times in the face. Once he stopped moving, I threw the pan down and got to my feet pulling Ness into my arms. She wrapped her arms around me and buried her face in my chest, I put my face into the crock of her neck and breathed her in. We both calmed instantly, I pulled back and cupped her face when I saw she had a cut on her forehead she shook her head and nodded in the direction of Grace which had us both turning to her frowning,

"Why did you shoot Grace? Why did you fucking shoot?"

I stormed over to her and grabbed the back of her head making sure she kept eye contact with me. I was fucking pissed this bitch had ruined the fucking plan. I could see she was bleeding and knew Ness had slammed her with her gun which had me smirking on the inside.

"Why did you fucking shoot?"

She started crying or trying to cry I should say,

"I didn't know I had it in me like that!"

Bullshit you bitch! Before I could say anything, Ness stormed forward and pulled Grace so she was facing her,

"Bullshit! You fucking shot first you bitch! That prick had his gun out but he wouldn't have shot if you had done what Tommy told you too! Simple fucking instructions Grace don't fucking shoot just point how the fuck could you get it so wrong? What the fuck were you thinking?"

Ness pushed her away when Grace looked at me,

"Now you've seen me!"

This had me raising an eyebrow at her,

"Seen you what Grace? Fuck everything up!"

"I'm sorry."

This had Ness speaking again and I knew she was not happy and she was using every ounce of self-control she possessed not to hit this bitch again.

"No, you're not sorry Grace, you did this on purpose! What? You don't think I can't see through your sweet little innocent act you've got going on? You thought this would make Tommy look at you, didn't you? You thought this would have Tommy leaving me and coming to you? Or did you think he would fuck you tonight?"

That had me looking at Grace in disgust, I moved so I was in front of her and grabbed her chin tightly in my hand.

"I've told you before bitch that I would never disrespect my wife in that way. I don't want you Grace and I never will, I love my wife more than anything in this world you don't even come close to her princess she is fucking gold you, your like something I found on the bottom of my shoe. Don't make me tell you again Grace!"

I shoved her away from me and looked to Ness who I could see was still shaking so I walked over to her and grabbed her wrapping my arms around her waist which had her wrapping hers around my neck. I then whispered into her ear,

"It's ok love, I'm ok. You had my back darling."

"I love you Tommy Shelby."

"I love you Ness Shelby."

Before we could say anything else the doors opened and in walked Moss with two other police officers. I turned to look at them and spoke up,

"You were supposed to come on the sixth chime. You were supposed to come on the fucking sixth chime!"

He looked at the body on the floor and I moved to stand against the bar revealing Ness who was stood behind me, she looked at Moss who looked at her and I could see the regret on his face. I spoke up again,

"They refused to surrender. They fought well; they were brave men."

"Well, he looks like he was killed by a wild fucking animal."

Ness stepped forward then and looked at Moss,

"He hurt me; Tommy saved me Moss. He was going to kill me, Tommy had to do something."

Moss looked at Ness and I saw the softening of his eyes, he stepped closer to Ness and that was when he noticed the blood on Ness's forehead which had him cupping Ness's cheek and frowning.

"You ok? He did this?"

"No, that was this bitch."

She pointed at Grace, who was just stood in the background.

Moss looked at Grace and frowned at her, then looked back to Ness he nodded at her and handed her a handkerchief from his pocket she thanked him and put it to her cut. He then stepped back towards me,

"This never happened, they were never here. Who cares!"

"Get the bodies out of here."

"Ah, right, are they making the lady uncomfortable?"

"No, Moss their making me uncomfortable, no one gives a shit about the barmaid."

He looked to Ness and that was when he saw how badly her hands were shaking so he nodded his head to the two coppers behind him and they moved forward grabbing a body each.

"I'll leave you to it then, Ness stay safe love."

Once they cleared the bodies away and left, I poured Ness a whiskey which she downed straight away. I went to pour her another one when she shook her head,

"No, Tom I just want to go home and be with my husband!"

"Ok love, come on."

I held my hand out to her which she took without hesitation we then both looked to Grace it was Ness who spoke up,

"Get your coat Grace we're walk you home first,"

Grace got her coat and we all made our way out of the pub with Ness locking up. We walked Grace home first with Ness threatening her to keep her mouth shut before we left her and went home. Once home we locked the front door and made our way to our room, I helped Ness clean her cut and saw it was deep so I got the needle and thread ready for stitches which I did once she had another glass of whiskey. It didn't take me long to get it done and I helped her strip off and put on one of my shirts. I cleaned myself up and climbed into bed next to her in just my boxers.

I wrapped my arms around her and held her close to me, I knew tonight had terrified her not the violence of it all but the part where I let the idiot get his arms around me and almost let him kill me. I couldn't do that again I knew Ness's greatest fear was to lose me like mine is fear of losing her. We fell asleep in each other's arms me holding her tight to my body so she knew I was here. We woke late into the morning the next day both of us were content to stay here in each other's arms I ran my fingers through Ness's hair which had her snuggling closer to me. There was never a need to fill the silences with Ness we were both comfortable enough just to lay here with each other in silence enjoying the other's company.

We were awake for about half an hour when someone knocked on the bedroom door, I pulled the cover up so it was covering Ness and called them to come in.

"Yeah?"

The door opened to John's smiling face,

"Morning lovebirds, you're both needed in the betting den, it's busier than usual this morning."

"Ok John-boy we'll be down in five."

"All right Tommy. Ness love who gave you that bruise love? Another hit to the head you've got to be careful, remember?"

"I know Johnny, but I'm ok, promise."

He nodded at her then left, I turned to look at her and checked her over.

"You sure you're ok love?"

"Tom I'm fine I promise."

She kissed my lips softly then rolled over me getting out of bed. She went to her wardrobe and put on a beautiful midnight blue dress which I loved on her. She then did her hair while I got ready for the day. I put my cap on and held my hand out for Ness, we made our way downstairs and into the betting den where we saw that it was a lot busier than usual. Ness made her way over to John at the black board and I made my way into the office where Polly was waiting and she did not look happy.

"You ok, Pol?"

"Fine Thomas."

I knew she wasn't but I wouldn't get anything out of her when she was in this mood. We were so busy that I didn't notice the time until Ness walked in the office and sat on the desk next to me, she ran her hand through my hair which had me groaning in pleasure. I loved when she did this, I looked up at her and smiled.

"It's past lunch time Tom, we've been working almost five hours without a break. Fancy taking your wife to the garrison for a drink?"

"Love, I'd take you anywhere as long as I came too."

I stood up and moved to stand between her legs and kissed her lips softly. I pulled back and placed my forehead against hers and smiled.

"Let's go, love."

I grabbed her hand and we both made our way over to the garrison. Walking in we heard the barmaid singing again which pissed us both off, after last night I thought she wouldn't piss Ness off anymore especially with the hit Ness gave her. We stood there and made sure she caught our glares sent her way then we walked into the snug, I sat down and Ness reached through the hatch grabbing a bottle and coming to sit on my lap. She drank from the bottle then handed it to me which had me chuckling. I took a sip then handed it back to her, she turned in my lap so she was straddling me she smirked at me then took a mouthful of whiskey leaning down and placing her lips against mine. I opened mine instantly which had hers opening and the whiskey flowing from her mouth to mine. I wrapped my arms around her waist pulling her closer to me, I could feel the heat from her pussy due to her wearing a dress and I knew she could feel my cock harden at her touch. She pulled her mouth from mine and placed her lips against my ear,

"I want you to fuck me on your desk Tommy, so whenever you're at work and I'm not there you will always think about me and see me spread open on your desk."

I groaned at her words, tightening my arms around her waist and standing up which had her wrapping her legs around my waist and her arms tightening around my neck, I took one hand off her waist and reached up behind me taking the bottle from her hand and putting it on the table. I then carried her out of the snug, where Grace and the men in the garrison looked at us that had Ness glaring at them all.

"What the fuck you looking at?"

That had them all turning away from us and me smirking at Ness. I carried her all the way to the betting den and walking in. I saw it was only Scudboat there so I told him to clear off which had him smirking at me and locking the door behind him. I walked into the office and pushed all the crap off, I sat Ness on the desk and slammed my lips against hers, my hands sliding down to her legs and pushing them open. I ran my hands along her thighs and under her dress, a finger touching her clit through her underwear which had her jerking her hips and moaning softly against my lips.

I thrust my tongue into her mouth which had hers instantly battling for dominance I knew I would win. I moved my hands back up her dress and slide them round the back to her buttons and unbuttoned her dress sliding it off her shoulders I wrapped an arm around her waist and lifted her so I could slide her dress off with her help. I then untied her bra and slide that off slowly moving back so I could see her beautiful body. I ran my thumb along her nipple then pinched it between my fingers pulling softly while I moved my mouth to give her other nipple some attention. She moved her hands to slide my suit jacket off then unbuttoned my waistcoat sliding that off, she ran her hands down my chest and stomach untucking my shirt and undoing the buttons pushing that off. She then ran her hands down to the waistband of my trousers unbuttoning them and sliding her hand on inside grabbing my cock which had me jerking my hips and groaning.

I pulled back from her breasts and moved my hands to her knickers sliding them off her as well, I could see her glistening from want and knew she was wet for me. I ran a finger along her slit then roughly rubbed against her clit drawing moans from her, the rougher I got the rougher she got. I then looked into her eyes and thrust two fingers into her pussy which had her calling my name and me smirking at her.

I pulled her hand away from my cock and used my hand to pull my trousers and boxers down and pulled my cock out pumping a few times. I pulled my fingers out of her pussy and brought them to my mouth sucking her juices off, keeping eye contact with her at all times. I then took my hand and thrust three fingers into her pussy which had her hips jerking and her almost screaming my name,

"Tom, please."

"Please what my love?"

"I want your cock inside me Tommy!"

I pulled my fingers out of her pussy and put them to her lips, she opened up and sucked them down like it was my cock. I put my hands on her hips and pulled her to the edge of the desk, then spread her legs open more moving to stand in between, I then grabbed my cock and thrust into her pussy deeply.

My hands going straight back onto her hips holding her in place.

"Fuck Tommy!"

I leaned down so my mouth was near her ear,

"You like that darling?"

"Fuck yes,"

She was getting loud which was turning me on more and I knew it was turning her on more too, my next thrust was a hard thrust which had her screaming my name so I slammed my lips onto hers thrusting my tongue into her mouth at the same rhythm I thrust my cock into her pussy. I pulled away when I felt she needed to take a breath and slammed my hips against hers again which had her putting her face in the crock of my neck and biting. I knew I was close so I moved one hand between us to rub against her clit and moved my face to her neck and bit her neck drawing a gasp from her. She pulled back from my neck to whisper in my ear.

"Fuck Tom, please I'm so close fuck yes right there please oh fuck!"

I felt her walls clench tightly I thrust one more time one big deep hard thrust which had us both Cumming at the same time. I held her against me with my arms around her waist both of us slowing our breathing down when we heard footsteps coming closer to us, I looked down and made sure I had her pressed tightly to my chest when the door opened to John smirking at us,

"You two finished yet?"

"Fuck off John-boy."

Ness smirked at me when I said that and shook her head,

"John piss off so I can get dressed and Tom can take me to bed."

"You got it love."

He left closing the betting den doors, I helped Ness get dressed then got dressed myself. I picked her up and she wrapped her legs around my waist and I knew why she wanted me to carry her because I could still feel her legs shaking from her orgasm which had me smirking in pride. I carried her to bed and helped her into a night shirt, she got into bed and I followed shortly after in just my boxers. We both feel asleep shortly after.

We woke up late in the afternoon the next day, which was nice I knew we both needed the sleep especially Ness she had been real busy the past couple of days and it was taking its toll on her. I was glad the boys let us sleep as late as they had. I kissed Ness's forehead softly and smiled at her,

"Afternoon love."

"Hmm, afternoon, Tom."

I tapped her butt softly which had her looking at me and smirking,

"Let's get dressed then my love, I'm sure the boys have been waiting to come up here and wake us both and Pol's probably about ready to bash them both over the head."

She giggled at that and then rolled over me to get out of bed, she put on a black skirt with a light blue blouse. I walked over and got myself dressed wearing a light blue shirt to match hers. She grabbed my cap and put it on my head and then held her hand out to me. We both made our way downstairs where the betting den doors were open we both walked in Ness walking over to John at the black board and me going into the office and stopping at the desk remembering last night and smirking I had to adjust the tent in my trousers before sitting down and getting stuck into some paperwork.

I must have been sat here for about three hours when Finn came running in calling my name,

"Tommy?"

I stood up and made my way to the door,

"Finn? What is it?"

He grabbed my hand and pulled me out the door, he brought me to the graveyard and to Danny's grave where I saw it had been dug up which had me frowning. The fucking barmaid! She must have overheard the other night for fuck sake! We had been so bloody careful with the information she was hearing to because most of it was bullshit, we had made up to trap her but now fuck! Me and Ness had to lay low. I bent low and put my hand on Finn's shoulder,

"There's gonna be trouble now, Finn. You look after yourself, do you hear me? Me and Ness are gonna be going away for a while. Right, go on."

I pat him on the head and he ran off, I stood there for a moment looking at the grave when I heard my name being called.

"TOMMY!"

I looked up and saw Ness running to me, she looked scared and panicked. Once she was near, I grabbed her waist to steady her,

"Love?"

"Moss called me, told me what was happening. Said I had to get out and lay low."

"He's got the guns love."

She looked at me and smiled she pulled my head down so she could whisper in my ear,

"No, Tom, they got less than half of the guns!"

I pulled back and looked at her in shock, grabbing her hands and holding them against my chest,

"What?"

"I haven't had time to talk to you about it cause shit just kept popping up. I moved the guns a few nights ago with the help of Ollie and some other trusted blinder lads. The day your father turned up and I left I came here to see my mother's grave while I was here, I checked on Danny's grave and found the barmaid here. She said she was paying her respects but she didn't know Danny so it didn't make sense to me. I was halfway home to you when I bumped into Ollie and some blinders and asked for their help. They did good Tom real good we took as many guns as we could but left some so it wouldn't look suspicious. The guns are safe, but the police are still looking for us."

This woman would never stop amazing me,

"We have to stop at the garrison first, we need to make it look like you go with Grace, from what Moss said this inspector has the feels for Grace big time we need to make this emotional for him."

"What do you suggest?"

"Go in the front, Tom, pull her to the back and I'll be waiting there. Tell her to go to her place and stay there we fucking threaten the bitch if we have to but I know a safe place for us one that not even your brothers know about."

I grabbed her hand and pulled her along,

"Let's go, love."

We made our way to the garrison, separating when we got to the alleyway that led to the back. I placed a kiss on her lips then made my way into the garrison. I saw Grace talking to Harry and made my way to the door behind the bar, opening it and Grace following me in.

"I'm gonna have to lie low for a bit."

"Why?"

"I lost my bargaining power. This copper, it's just me and him now."

"What about your wife? Why did you come here?"

I had to give her something so I said whatever bullshit come out of my mouth.

"When I get back, I'm gonna tell you some things."

"Harry said the police are already in Digbeth."

"Yeah."

"You took a chance coming here. Why?"

To use you sweetheart, that's all this is to use you and make sure my wife is safe! Thankfully I didn't have to say anything else as the door opened and Finn came in,

"The police are in the lane, Tommy!"

Grace took my hand and pulled me through the bar behind her for all to see I was leaving with her! Fuck my wife is right about this bitch and god did I love her for it.

"Come with me!"

We go through the bar to the backway and opened the door walking out and closing it instantly. Grace went to pull me some more when I pulled my hand away from hers and walked over to Ness who was standing with her leg against the wall. She pulled her gun out from her thigh holster and walked over to Grace putting it against her chin

"Listen sweetheart and listen good. You're going to carry on to your home letting people think Tommy went with you, you're not going to ask questions you're just going to do it or this bullet will go through your skull do you understand me?"

"Why should I help you?"

"Oh, you're not helping us Grace, you're just repenting for your sins!"

"What sins?"

"Your sins of working with the inspector and feeding him information on Tommy and me!"

I could see the minute the words hit her cause the fear that went across her face and in her eyes was damn near satisfying.

"I don't know what you're talking about!"

"Oh, let's not act stupid now Grace, you're going to do what I say or I swear this bullet will hit its mark."

Grace looked at me but I was too busy looking at my wife and smirking at her, fuck she was hot as hell when she was like this.

"My husband's not going to help you sweetheart, you got him in danger from the coppers which in turn has put me in danger and Tommy hates anyone who puts his queen in danger!"

Grace could see she really had no option so she nodded her head as best she could, Ness pulled away from her and opened the gate letting in Ollie which had me raising an eyebrow when the fuck did she have time to get him!

"Ollie this is Grace bitch barmaid who put us in the shit make sure she makes it back to her place and doesn't leave until morning."

"You got it Ness,"

He turned his coat collar up and pushed his cap down at the back so from the back he would look like me, he nodded to Ness and Me then grabbed Grace's arm and pulled her out the gate and away from us. Ness then looked at me and held her hand out to me which I took instantly she pulled me along with her through all the back alley ways that the coppers knew nothing about where we ended up in a street we had not been in for a long time. Ness pulled me to a house and into the gate, closing it and locking it she then grabbed the key out of her purse, opening the door and letting me in first. She locked the door once she was in and pulled the curtains closed on all the windows.

"Whose place is this?"

"Mine, Tom. Or well not in name it used to be my grandfathers on my father's side who gave it to my father's brother who left it to his son who then died in the war and left it to me. But I kept it in his name so no one would know it was mine in case we needed a safe place. No one will find us here."

"You never stop amazing me, you know that love?"

"I love you Tom, and I would do anything to keep you safe and with me it's as simple as that for me."

"I love you Ness, more than I ever thought possible,"

"Would you like a drink?"

"What you got love?"

"I stocked this place up Tom, we got Whiskey, Tea, Rum or water?"

"Tea."

She looked at me and giggled,

"Tea? You don't drink tea Tom,"

"Trying to impress you, love"

"You don't need to impress me, Tom I married you because I love you. I'm still with you because I love you for who you are."

"Whiskey then."

"That's better. Feel free to look around while I get us those drinks."

She walked off and I looked around the room, thankfully the curtains kept it dark so one could see in, I found some candles and lit them and then looked around some more when I found a gramophone, this had me smiling because I had yet to dance with Ness after promising her I would at the races and then never got the chance. I wound it up and let it play I turned when I heard her walking back in, she made her way over and handed me, my drink which I placed on the side I took hers and put it next to mine then held out my hand.

"Would you dance with me Mrs Shelby?"

She put her hand in mine and smiled,

"I would love to, Mr Shelby,"

I loved dancing with Ness she moved beautifully, dancing with her now made me miss dancing with her and I knew we would be making time for just us to have a dance. Before long I found myself kissing her and slowly walking her back towards the sofa. I slowly removed her clothes and she slowly removed mine, I pushed her down onto the sofa bringing my knees up so they were either side of her and her legs were spread wide. I slowly slide my cock inside her pussy taking deep slow thrusts, this wasn't about lust like the fucking we did on my desk this was me showing my wife I loved her with everything I had to give. (If you've seen season 2 where Grace and Tommy fuck on the sofa this is like that but with more love thrown into it.)

Her hands ran down my back digging her nails in which I didn't mind but I knew she wanted to grab something so I pulled her arms and grabbed her hands in mine lacing our fingers together and putting them over her head. I could feel we were both close so I leaned down and pushed my lips against hers softly running my tongue along her bottom lip asking for entrance she gladly gave. I thrust a few more times when we both came calling each other's name. I pulled out of her slowly, I pulled her to stand up and laid down on the sofa pulling her to lay in front of me and grabbing the cover off the back of the sofa and covering us both up. Wrapping an arm around her holding her close to me and both of us using my other arm as a pillow.

"You ok, Tom?"

"I don't hear the shovels against the wall when I'm with you, love."

She slid her arm over mine that was around her and laced our fingers together,

"I never hear the cries of the soldiers or the bombs going off when I'm with you Tom. You make it better; you make me feel safe."

"You are safe, my love. I will always make sure you're safe!"

"I know Tom, just like I will with you,"

"Will you help me?"

"Help you with what my darling?"

"Everything, the whole fucking thing. The business, life all of it love."

She rolled so she was facing me which had me tightening my arm so she didn't fall her hand going to my cheek.

"Tommy, I am your wife I will help you with everything you don't have to keep taking the burdens alone share them with me!"

"I found you, and you found me! My wife I will love you forever, we'll help each other!"

She placed her lips against mine softly and we both smiled and sighed into the kiss. She pulled away and tugged her head under my chin me holding tighter to her and placing my chin on her head. We were both asleep before we knew it, I knew with this woman by my side I could do anything and be anything I am the king of Birmingham and she is my queen!

We woke in the early hours of the morning, Ness getting dressed and leaving me for a while to find out what was happening. She came back not long after and said it was ok, the police had gone and stopped looking for us. So, we made our way home hand in hand both of us feeling lighter than we had in a long time. We opened the front door and walked in seeing a note stuck to the wall with our names on. I opened it and saw it was a note from Polly telling us what had happened with Arthur I knew our father would pull something like this so I wasn't at all surprised. We made our way into the house seeing Arthur sat at the fire, we could see the mark on his neck from here. Ness kissed my cheek and then kissed Arthurs walking off to go upstairs and change. I walked over to Arthur and moved his collar to have a clearer look then placed my hand on his shoulder.

"So, Pol told you?"

"Yep."

I pulled myself a cup of tea and sat next to him at the fire,

"You should have used a gun."

"Are you laughing at me, Tommy?"

"Yeah! Just when things are starting to go right, Arthur, you try and do this. Don't you like fancy parties? Or um, Champagne? Or fast cars? And how about this?"

I pulled the business cards from my pocket and showed him,

"Your name on a business card."

"Shelby brothers, limited? Arthur Shelby, associate bookmaker,"

"I just had them picked up from the printers this morning, you're one of three shareholders. Me, you, John. And according to the law, we are equal partners. And it is written in the paperwork in black and white. A third, a third, a third. But the thing is well, me and John, we quite fancy splitting your share so. Just next time use a gun man."

He laughed at that which had me smiling at him, I put my tea down and lent closer to him,

"Our men at the station tell me that copper is leaving town. We're in the clear!"

I put my hand on his shoulder again,

"We're on our way up in the world, brother!"

He put his hand on my neck and smiled at me,

"Believe me!"

We both smiled when we heard Ness calling from upstairs,

"Tom? Can you help me button this dress?"

"Coming love."

I stood up and nodded to Arthur making my way to the stairs where I saw Ness in a yellow dress, it wasn't bright it was like a soft sunrise colour which made her look amazing, she came down stairs and turned her back to me on the bottom step. I did the buttons for her, then she turned around which had me grabbing her hand and pulling her with me. We walked into the betting den where I saw Arthur had got to work with John. We walked into the office both of us looking at the desk and smirking at each other. I sat down in the chair and pulled her to sit on my lap, she reached forward and picked up the paper which I took from her and opened it up so we could both read it. Ness lit a cigarette for me and popped it between my lips which had me smiling at her.

I read the racing news then folded the paper up, Ness stood up from my lap which had me standing up and putting the paper on the desk. We both walked out of the office me grabbing Ness's hand on the way when we saw Polly smiling at us which had Ness smiling at her and nodding. I put my hand on Ollie's shoulder and smiled at him, since Ness had told me how he helped her I had been thinking about giving him more responsibility and a better job with more pay. It was something I was going to discuss with Ness later, we both made our way to John passing Scudboat on the way who nodded at Ness, John pushed the phone away and stood up smiling at us, his finger going up in a come here motion to Ness who walked up to him.

He grabbed her in a hug and spun her around which had her laughing and me chuckling at them, he set her down and kissed her forehead then pushed her back to me. Which had me wrapping my arm around her waist I leant down and whispered in Ness's ear,

"Come on love, rain check being cashed in. Let's go see that horse of ours."

I grabbed my coat and put it on, then helping Ness into hers where she then put my cap on my head. We made our way out of the betting den nodding at people on our way.

An this is a random place to stop I know but if I don't stop, I will just carry on and on and on lol. Happy new year to all my readers, may 2022 bring you all happiness, love and good health and may we all finally be rid of covid!
I hope you like this update it took me a while to write as I've basically re-written the whole episode to fit my story and it was hard lol. Also, if anyone knows anything about Microsoft word, I have a new laptop it's a Lenovo and word is already installed when I use it, it seems to write a few words then kind of freezes on me then catches up. If anyone has any idea why this could be and how to maybe fix it please let me know. Thank you in advance.