PUBLISHED: 24/07/2022

ANGEL - SETH CLEARWATER X READER

PREVOUS Prologue

I

THIRD PERSON'S POV

Seth sat with the pack and the imprints after telling them about you — The little he knew anyways. He was still hung up on the fact that you would only be here for two months.

"Why don't you, I don't know, show up in the same places she is?" Embry suggested, throwing a baseball to Quil as they sat down, albeit carefully — Sam would kill them if they broke something.

Emily wouldn’t mind, but since she bought half of the stuff in the house Sam would break their fingers if they scratched even one thing.

"He's not a mind reader, Embry, God," Leah snarked, throwing an arm around her not so little brother's shoulders, pulling him slightly closer to her.

She smelled like home, so he nestled in a little closer, needing the comfort.

"But the little Cullen is, maybe Jake can ask them for some help," Embry shot back, and Seth looked elated, but then his face dropped.

"But I don't want her to think I'm a stalker or anything," Seth murmured defeatedly, and it was back to the drawing board.

The room went silent, Seth dragging the slightly good mood down with him.

"Adopt a dog," Quil suggested, and everyone looked at him.

"You said she has a dog — If you get one then you can take it for walks when she takes hers for walks. That's not that stalkerish. You have an excuse to be in the same place at the same time," Quil elaborated as he fumbled an extra hard throw from Embry, and Seth grinned so bright that it made everyone else crack a small smile.

"Quil, you're a genius! Now all I need to do is find a dog." Seth replied, his mind running wild as he pulled out his phone and scrolled through his contacts, wondering who to message.

Adopting dogs from the local shelter was really expensive, and he was saving for a new dirt bike. He only had $200 to go, and he really didn’t want to waste money on a new dog. Not when he could nearly taste the dirt bike.

"Rez dogs are having puppies all of the time man, but if you're that keen Miss Postoak is trying to get rid of her bitch since she can't afford her right now, she’s only a companion dog and the others are working dogs," Jared supplied before taking another bite of his blueberry muffin, courtesy of Emily, and Seth felt victorious as he clicked onto his Mom’s contact and called her, asking if he could get a dog for his birthday.

"You're picking up its’ crap, buying its’ dog food and leashes, and it is getting neutered, we have enough strays on the reservation as is, young man — and I'll help you set up the yard for it when you get it," She replied, then said 'love you' and hung up the phone.

Seth whooped, then calmed back down, looking around the room at his expectant friends.

"What the fuck do I need for a dog?"

Leah pinched her brother’s ear for his foul language, making everyone laugh.

•••

Thankfully, Old Quil owned many a dog in his lifetime, used for hunting, mainly, but most of them were now companions in their old age, the man hesitant to get another in case it outlived him. Young Quil helped Seth buy the needed supplies like leashes, a crate for inside, dishes for the food, a dog bed, and a vet appointment was set for Monday so the bitch that Seth adopted — named Missy, a Rottweiler Shar Pei cross (Rott Pei, Quil had helpfully given him the proper name for the breed of the mutt) could be checked up, seeing as she was due for one.

Seth and Quil now at the store, buying some dog food. The smell was still overwhelming, and mixed in with how all of the other store goers smelled it was nearly unbearable. He could even still smell the products they mopped the floors with. He put the last thing in the cart when he heard a familiar voice. You.

"Quil, shit man, that's her!" Seth whispered excitedly, then listened as you made your way through the aisles, talking about dog food for Cujo.

Quil watched his younger pack mate bounce on his heels as you approached, and tried not to laugh at how excited Seth was getting. The boy turned to face you as soon as you turned the corner, dragging your dad by his hand, a basket in your other hand.

"Oh! It's little Seth!" Alexander pointed out, making you look away from the tins of dog food on the shelf, and give him a friendly grin, dropping your dad’s hand in the process.

"Hello, hello," You greeted, and nodded towards his full trolley, "Stocking up for a vacation?"

Seth turned back at the groups of haphazardly stacked dry kibble bags and wet food cans, and numerous treat packets. Maybe he was going a tiny bit overboard.

"Uh, no," Seth admitted, rubbing the back of his neck with a chuckle, "I'm getting my first dog and I think I got overexcited."

"Oh! Such a spoiled little puppy that will be! Maybe you and miss (Y/N) could take your dogs for walks sometimes! I think she gets sick of her old man slowing her down," Alexander offered, and nudged (Y/N)'s shoulder, "If you need help with the dog too, (Y/N) could teach you a few tricks. Should help her keep herself busy for the next two months."

Seth tried not to smile too hard as he agreed, but noticed that you looked less than pleased, but give him a tight lipped smile nonetheless.

"Dad, grab two dry bags of dog food," You commanded, and your father did your bidding as you somewhat aggressively threw some dog food cans into a basket, managing to dent one of them.

Your father suddenly looked less than pleased with your behaviour as you threw the last can and turned on your heel, shoulder checking him as you walked past him. Alexander looked back at the pair of boys and gave them a tight lipped smile and a small wave before leaving behind his daughter.

Seth cocked his head to the side, trying to drown out the rest of the store goers to listen to you. Quil immediately did the same.

“What in the Gods was that? Ridiculous behaviour for what?” Your father said gruffly, but not unkindly.

"Dadda, I don't want to go for walks with him!" Was the first thing Seth heard you say, which made his heart drop, but he kept on listening anyway.

"Nonsense, he seems nice! A friend wouldn't hurt," Your father tried to reason with you, but you huffed.

"If a friend wouldn't hurt we'd actually live in one place and not move around like nomads." You then let out a soft 'fuck!', most likely stubbing your toe on the stupid boxes near the mouth of aisle 2.

"Well, I'm sure this place is the place. Trust me, tiny child. If it isn't, I'll buy you your dream Dodge Challenger for a late birthday gift." Your father reasoned.

"Don't bullshit me," You snapped back, sounding like you were nearer to the doors.

"I'm not! Matte black Dodge Challenger with red under glow for your birthday, or we live here, I swear it on Cujo's life." Your father pleaded, and you sighed.

"Fine. I'll see if one of the workers knows how to get into contact with him. I'll try to find him on MySpace or Twitter or something." You relented, then the doors opened to the front of the store, and your scent was gone.

Your Father cheered and Quil put Seth into a headlock playfully, messing up his hair, making Seth laugh as he did so.

•••

You sat on your new bed, your dog Cujo, a black Cane Corso who was getting on in his years, shown by the grey fur on his muzzle, resting on the floor next to your bed, not being allowed on any furniture. Your father was doing research in his room.

You picked up a piece of mango and popped it into your mouth as you looked up the name of the place you were staying at on Facebook. You found the profile, and clicked into it, then went straight to followers. You couldn't find any followers with Seth's profile picture, so you went and looked up the name of the school, finding their profile and looking through the followings for Seth. No luck. Even searching his name up you discovered nothing. You stalked his school until you found his name on an old post where he had won an award for a spelling bee, also discovering his last name. Clearwater. Seth Clearwater.

You logged into your MySpace account, and looked for him, and surprisingly found him. His profile picture was a photo of him with a man, standing side by side, grinning.

You found it, and let held your arms up above your head in a victorious manner, looking around the room as if expecting someone to cheer for you, then focussing on your dog.

"See how fucking amazing I am, Cujo? The FBI needs to hire me as a detective," You said, then started scrolling through his profile.

Nothing overly fancy. Just some pictures of him, people you assumed to be his family, and some of nature around the area, alongside some photos of his adventures. You clicked the 'Add Friend' button, and decided to make a new friendship bracelet while you watched movies, heading off to your dad's room to go and ask him to start the bracelet for you.

•••

Seth was currently scrolling through Twitter at his desk as his Xbox 360 started up, Leah lounging on his bed playing Mario on his DS. Technically, he and Leah shared the Xbox, but he just kept it in his room as she didn’t really play it much these days, instead choosing to play his DS. He didn’t mind. Just as long as she stayed in his room so he knew it was safe. Missy was laying halfway under his bed, gnawing at a new chew toy Quil had picked out.

His phone beeped, and a new notification popped up. He walked over and slid onto the bed next to his sister. A new friend request. He looked, and his heart started speeding up as he looked at the profile.

“What?” Leah inquired, hearing the thrumming, looking over his shoulder.

“She added me on MySpace!” Seth told his sister excitedly, showing her the profile picture of you and a black dog, along with your Dad and a woman who looked a bit like you, and accepted your friend request, then started looking through your profile.

There were photos from all around the world. Australia, Sweden, Italy, France. Your father and you were the main focus of your photos, but your nature shots were a sight to behold. There were also some with people that weren’t your father, so maybe friends and relatives. The photos of the woman in your profile picture stopped around a year ago, he noted. Your newest photo was the Welcome to Forks sign, you and a huge black dog posing in front of it, the same one from your profile picture.

A message notification popped up. He opened it, and there was a message from you.

Y/N:

Hey

“Oh my goodness, she messaged me!” Seth nearly squealed, and Leah bit back a laugh at her little brother, knowing that laughing would probably result in him attacking her with a pillow covered in a Spider-Man case.

“Well don’t just ignore it, reply!” Leah urged, and Seth looked at his sister, eyes as wide as saucers.

“What do I say!” Seth panicked, and Leah rolled her eyes, grabbing the iPhone covered in a Spider-Man case and messaging her back.

Seth:

Hey

•••

You blinked at your laptop screen, your friendship bracelet forgotten. You didn’t expect him to reply so fast. You went down to the vending machine just outside of the office about ten minutes ago and he wasn’t there, instead there was a girl at the counter, talking on the phone as she painted her nails. Maybe his shift was over, and he was at home? You didn’t think on it much.

Your fingertips ghosted over the keys, then stopped, instead picking up your phone and logging into MySpace there.

“Dad?” You called out, and he ambled into your room, a sandwich with a bite taken out of it, jerking his head upwards slightly as he chewed.

“Seth messaged me and I don’t know how to reply,” You admitted, and your father chuckled as he came over and sat next to you, trying not to get any crumbs on the bed.

Cujo immediately came over and sat expectantly next to him on the floor, but your father shooed him away. Your baby walked over and laid in his crate, looking offended.

“What do you want to say?” He asked, pulling your phone into his hand, getting ready to type a message for you.

You leaned against his muscly arm, and shrugged. You weren’t very good at holding conversations.

“Why don’t you ask him about his new dog?” Your father suggested and you grinned victoriously, taking back the phone and sending him a message.

Y/N:

How’s things going with preparing for ur dog?

You hummed, feeling content, then sent the message. Seth started typing immediately.

Seth:

She’s good! We picked her up like an hour ago and she’s currently harassing my sister, lol

A photo came through of a dog that looked like a Rottweiler, but was wrinkly, and the tail curved upwards, sitting on the lap of a girl that looked a couple years older than you, playing a DS.

“Oh! Looks like a little Rott Pei! They’re stubborn little fucks,” Your father commented, still eating his sandwich, making you giggle.

Your aunty Lara had one, over in Italy. He tended to chew any shoes left outside, and didn’t like Cujo much.

Seth:

Her name is Missy :)

Y/N:

She’s so cute! Is she a Rott Pei? Dad says they’re stubborn lol

Seth:

Yeah, she is. I’m gonna try and take her for a walk tomorrow. She’s really good on lead, and well socialised. My sister Leah’s coming too, wanna come with?

Before you could type ‘no’, your father snatched your phone and sent a message.

Y/N:

That sounds good, when & where?

“Dad!” You hissed, picking up your stuffed Elmo doll from beside you and assaulting your father with it, making him drop his sandwich.

Cujo wasted no time in scrabbling over and eating it, making you laugh, but you quickly stopped as your phone beeped again, leaning over and grabbing it from your dad’s hand.

Seth:

Tomorrow, like 11am?

We can take out a picnic!

Me and Leah can come pick you up :)

You quickly positioned yourself so you could see Cujo in the background, your dad deciding to hop into the photo as well, holding up both of his thumbs and giving the biggest smile you’d ever seen.

Y/N:

Cujo & I are keen, so’s Dad apparently. See you then!

•••

Leah pinched her little brother’s cheek as he put the phone down, tittering at the way he blushed, the colour in his cheeks and ears becoming more noticeable with the red undertone of his blood rushing to them.

“My baby, all grown up! Going on a date with a girl-”

“-It’s not a date, Leah,” Seth said exasperatedly as he grabbed his phone and messaged Jacob, wanting to let him know first.

Seth:

(Y/N) and I are walking our dogs together tomorrow.

Jacob:

Good job bro :)

You should see if she wants to come to your birthday party tomorrow

Seth blinked. Tomorrow was his birthday. He’d be fifteen, and in two months he’d be starting tenth grade.

Seth:

I forgot about that haha

Are you and Ness coming?

Jacob

Wouldn’t miss it for the world man

I picked out a cool gift but Ness said hers is ‘practical’, or whatever

You know how she is

Seth laughed and sent back a thumbs up emoji, then leaned over and scritched Missy behind her ears, making her wag her tail contentedly. Today was a good day. Tomorrow was going to be even better.

•••

Alexander stood out on the porch of the cabin, facing the sea as he puffed on his Marlboro, the cigarette being his only source of light other than the moon, full and low over the sea.

A movement in the distance, over near some rocks, only just visible in the corner of his eye. His head snapped in the direction of it, his blue eyes nearly glowing in the dark.

Something was staring right back at him, its eyes shining green like a cat’s in the dark. A stare off ensued. Alexander moved ever so slightly, reaching for his crossbow, but the creature then spread its’ wings and took flight, the huge wing span nearly blocking out the moon as it ascended.

Alexander growled and put out his cigarette, dropping it into the metal trash can near his feet. He found what he was looking for. Now it was time to complete the rest of his mission.

•••

Mary Postoak stared at the moon through her kitchen window, opting to watch it as the sink filled up in front of her.

There was a flash of darkness in front of the moon, looking like a huge bird. She gasped, a hand going to her chest. It was bigger than any bird she saw, ever. And the last time she checked; birds didn’t have legs like humans.

A thud was heard in her backyard, and her dogs started barking, making her head for her back door, but a yelp cut her off. She instead turned on her heel, running towards her bedroom and grabbed her rifle, then ran through the hallway, throwing open the back door and loading the rifle.

She grabbed the flashlight from her deck table, and turned it on, shining it toward the scene, and gasped.

Something was hunkered over her dog, feeding from it. Upon hearing her, it looked up, blood covering its lower lip. It was hideous. Pale skin, and two enormous wings. It stood up at its full height, nearly ten feet, and stepped forward, making her drop her torch and point her rifle at it.

She fired it once, hitting it square in the chest. It growled, then lunged for the woman, attacking her before she could even scream.

§§§

Fun fact lol, Missy & Cujo are based on dogs I've owned. Again, not proofread so please kindly point out any mistakes!

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 15

PUBLISHED: 29/05/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

READER'S POV

I twirled my finger in the telephone cord nervously until I heard Lizzie's 'hello?'

"Oh! Lizzie, it's (Y/N), I've just had a dream, and I needed to tell you because you were in it," I rambled as Finn Junior came and weaved between my legs.

'Was it a vision, like the ones Polly has?' Lizzie inquired, and I shrugged.

"I'm not sure, but it felt real enough," I admitted as Finn came down the hall, just waking up, his curly hair all over the place and only wearing boxers and a singlet.

Finn jutted his chin up, and I mouthed 'Lizzie', making him nod as he put the kettle on to boil then reached up to grab two mugs. I watched him as he did so, revelling in how the skin tightened over the muscles in his upper arm, showing them off.

'Tell me about it,' Lizzie demanded softly, bringing me back to reality and making me avert my eyes from Finn.

"You had a baby, and she grew up to be gorgeous, like someone you'd see in the pictures. Her name was Ruby," I stated, leaning back against the bench, smiling slightly, "And I saw her father, too. The blue eyed devil. You know exactly who I'm talking about."

'Tommy Shelby,' She sighed, then took a slight pause, 'It's true. I am pregnant, and he's the father. He doesn't know yet.'

"Are - Are you keeping her?" I asked, shifting my weight from one foot to the other, Finn now going over and relighting the fire.

'Yes. I want a baby,' She states, making me grin.

"Well then, Miss Stark, congratulations. I'll knit you some baby boots, beanies, and a blanket." I informed her.

'I don't need them just yet!' Lizzie protested with a  chuckle.

"It'll be good to have them on hand," I pointed out, making her hum in agreement.

'I'm feeling a bit tired, I reckon I need some more sleep, see you at the shop?' Lizzie said, then yawned.

"See you at the shop. Talk to you later," I replied, then Lizzie hung up.

"Who's the father of her baby?" Finn questioned, and I put my finger to my lips, signalling that it was a secret.

Finn huffed, but nodded as he came back over and grabbed a spoon out of the drawer and put sugar into his blue mug.

"I'll take Jenica's cake tin back over to her," I said as it caught my eye on the bench.

"Who the fuck is Jenica?" He asked, pouring the now boiled water into his mug.

"My cousin, Jenica Palmer. She's probably your distant fucking relation too, with how big and connected gypsy families are," I remarked, then chuckled.

"I'll come with you," Finn announced after pouring milk into his cup.

"You've been in my pocket ever since I got back, Finn Shelby, I don't think so," I warned, wagging my finger.

Finn nodded, knowing not to push my limits, then handed me the tin, "Take a gun with you, put it in your bra or something. City's still dangerous."

"I will," I snapped, frowning as I turned on my heel and went up the corridor, grabbing Finn's handgun off of the table, unloading it then putting it into my bra.

I grabbed the silencer too, putting it into my bra.

I knew that we were in trouble, it held on to the Shelby's like a bulldog. I didn't need reminders every five seconds. I grabbed my socks and put them on, then grabbed my boots, pulling them on. I looked over at my vanity, and decided that the walk was too far away, instead grabbing the hair tie on my wrist and scraping my hair up into a bun, grabbing my coat, and walking back out to the living room, where Finn was frying, eggs, sausages, and tomatoes in a pan, cigarette hanging out of the corner of his mouth.

"I won't be long," I informed him, making him nod.

I grabbed a piece of paper and wrote down a reminder to knit the stuff for Lizzie, and one to buy our own cake tin, then left the flat, borrowed cake tin in hand. I walked along the balcony in front of the apartments, humming a song I had heard on the radio.

I went upstairs, then entered the building, taking the internal stairwell instead of the fire escape for once, sick of the clanging sound it made with my boots.

I walked up to the fifth floor, and headed to the third door on the right, knocking on it.

Jenica opened the door, baby Violet on her hip.

"Cousin," She greeted warmly, pulling me in for a hug.

"Hello, cousin. I brought your cake tin back," I said as I released her from the hug, handing it to her, "I've got to get back to the apartment before Finn sends out a fucking search party, I'll come visit you and baby soon."

I pressed a kiss to Violet's forehead, making her giggle.

"All good, see you then." She said, and shut the door.

I walked down the internal staircase, and heard a familiar voice yell; "Everyone stay indoors! Stay down! By order of the Peaky Blinders!"

"Oh, fuck," I muttered, yanking the gun out of my bra, "I should've stayed home."

As I was putting the silencer on the gun, I looked down, and Tommy was coming up the stairwell.

"Thomas!" I hissed, making him look up, "What's going on?"

He ignored my question as he approached me, grabbing my arm and dragging me along with him.

"Why do you have a gun like that? Are the Italians here?" I questioned, and he shushed me as he continued to lead me God knows where.

My heart started racing. I didn't know these buildings like the back of my hand. I wasn't a Shelby, born and raised here like he was. I felt blind.

He stopped and leaned against a wall, panting. I started panting too, although it was from nerves instead of being out of breath. I reloaded my gun, then watched as Tommy reloaded his gun, then I pocketed the empty cartridge, making him look at me.

"You've been pushing papers around for too long, that could lead them to us!" I busted quietly, making him nod.

We heard voices in the stairwell, so he lead me through the door on our right. He lead me through the building to a fire escape, and looked around quickly. He lead me downstairs. I noticed someone walking down the street, and aimed my gun at them.

"Oi!" I called out, making him turn around, revealing the gun at his side.

I took one shot, sending a bullet through his head, watching as he fell to the ground in a heap.

"Stay here, watch my back, and if Luca comes, I get that shot," Tommy commanded, and I did so, kneeling down and pressing my back into the window behind me to make myself less visible from the street.

My hands were shaky, and cold. I heard someone speaking Italian as Tommy stepped off of the bottom step, and peeked over the edge of the landing, watching as Luca Changretta took shots at Tommy. I kept my eyes on the pair as they exchanged shots, then as Luca's gun ran out of bullets.

He put the gun down, and walked towards Tommy, and another Italian appeared from around the corner. I steadied myself, then took a shot and killed the other Italian, making Luca jump as his crony hit the ground. I let out a breath, then ran back upstairs and in the door Tommy and I just exited, making my way back to my own apartment.

I tried the front door, and found it locked.

"Finn!" I called out desperately as I knocked on the door, feeling shaken.

Finn opened the door, and I pushed past him, tripping over my own feet as I run to the bathroom, and knelt in front of the toilet, where I promptly vomited. I didn't even have anything to eat yet, so it felt horrid.

As I dry heaved, I felt a hand rub my back. Finn.

"What happened? Italians?" He asked, and I nodded, flushing the toilet.

"Tommy — I came across him when I was coming back from Jenica's. He had Italians after him, and he dragged me along with him. I don't know these streets, I don't know these buildings, I was fucking blind, thrown in the deep end!" I spat, feeling tears well up in my eyes, "If I knew what was happening and if I knew these buildings I'd be fine, but fucking hell, he just ordered me about like I was a soldier under his command, never again!"

I wiped them away angrily with a sniff, then heard stuff hit the sink, and the sound of something filling up. I looked up to see Finn offering me the cup that our toothbrushes usually sat in, but filled with water.  I took it, muttering a quiet 'thank you' and took a sip, swishing it around my mouth then spitting it into the toilet, repeating the action until my mouth felt clean. I handed the cup back to Finn, who sat it on the sink, then helped me stand up on shaky legs.

"Feeling sick still? Want to eat breakfast?" Finn asked, and I shrugged.

"I'll keep it warm on the fire until you feel alright. You should shower, I've got a feeling we're going to have a family meeting soon." He stated, and I nodded, turning the water on.

"I'll set you out some clean clothes," Finn mumbled as he exited the bathroom, closing the door behind him.

I stripped down and hopped into the shower, welcoming the feeling of the warm water on my skin. I had washed my hair last night, so there was no need to do it now. I stood under the hot water for a bit, waiting until I felt all of the tension wash off of me, then moved to clean my body, deciding to use Finn's body wash instead of my own. Once I was done, I turned off the shower and leaned out, grabbing my towel off of the rack and drying myself, then wrapping it around my body. I put my dirty clothes, bar my coat, which had been washed yesterday, into the laundry basket behind the door, picked up my boots, and walked to my room, shutting the door behind me.

I spotted the clothes Finn put out on my bed, walking over and drawing the curtains closed, then quickly got dressed, then put my boots on. I walked over to my vanity and grabbed my brush, undoing my bun with one hand, and pulling my hair over my shoulder, detangling my hair then pulling it down into a plait, in case I had to do any more fighting today.

I walked out of my room, down to the kitchen. The smell of food didn't make my stomach turn, a good sign. Finn was plating up the food. I walked over to the cupboard and grabbed my yellow mug down, making myself a cup of tea.

"You feel alright now?" Finn asked, and I nodded.

"Fuckin' nerves making me sick, that's all it was," I grumbled, taking a sip of my tea.

I grabbed my plate from Finn and carried it over to the table, placing it and my cup down, then headed over to the cupboard, grabbing a tin of cat food out and putting it into Finn Junior's bowl. I was surprised to learn that, while I was with the Italians, Finn had gotten the cat bowls, beds, blankets, and even a litter box with the cat's name on it. And the pair of them still hate each other.

I put Finn Junior's bowl down at the end of the bench, and he got up from his place in front of the fire and sauntered over, purring as he swayed his tail.

I sat at the table, next to Finn instead of across from him, and started eating, thanking him for the food first. We ate in a comfortable silence, and once we were done I took everything to the sink and washed them up, leaving them in the rack to dry.

The phone rang, and I picked it up.

"Hello?" I greeted my hand coming up to fiddle with my half heart pendant.

'(Y/N)? Family meeting, one hour. Polly's house.' Tommy said, then hung up.

"Fuck!" I bellowed, slamming the phone back down.

"What happened?" Finn asked, coming to stand next to me.

"Family meeting, one hour, his house," I mocked in a deep voice, making Finn chuckle.

"We can't even take the car because you got sick in it last night and it still stinks," I grouched, making Finn blush.

He was absolutely legless, Isiah had to call me to come get him from the Garrison. I should've left him there on the floor, or behind the bar.

"I'll call Arthur to come pick us up," He stated, making me nod, "I'll go have a shower, I'll be ready to leave in fifteen, I can read you some of the paper before we leave if you want."

I narrowed my eyes at him, "Why are you being nice to me? Is it so I won't be mad at Tommy?"

He looked taken aback, then narrowed his own eyes at me, "Am I not allowed to be nice to my wife? Would you rather be a drop dead cunt?"

"No — But you were never nice before I got taken!" I defended myself, making Finn roll his eyes and turn on his heel, heading to his room.

"You are worth the effort, fuck what anyone else told you before," He threw back quietly over his shoulder, then added, "If you weren't so contrary all the time we'd probably be an alright pair."

I scowled and picked up the pan that Finn had used to cook the food, and launched it after him, "I'm not fucking contrary! I'm complicated!"

He just laughed me off, "Yeah, you've got layers; like an onion."

"Stop comparing me to an onion!" I shrieked, before regaining my composure.

I looked down at Finn Junior, who was looking up at me with a funny look on his face.

"Don't stare at me like that."

•••

THIRD PERSON'S POV

"They're here," Polly announced, looking out of the window and seeing Arthur, Linda, you, and Finn in Arthur's car.

You were poking Finn in the side of the head, talking animatedly. Polly wouldn't be surprised if you were arguing about something. Again.

Finn hopped out of the car, helping you out, then all four of you crossed the street, heading to Polly's. Once inside, you sat at Polly's dining table. There were only four seats, Arthur and Johnny Doggs took two, Lizzie and Finn taking the other. Finn pulled you down to sit on his lap, and, to everyone's surprise, you stayed there, not protesting as he sat a hand on your hip.

You were glad Finn let you sit in his lap, because nothing could make you stand next to Linda. At least this way Finn could hold you back if you tried to hit her. Standing on the other side of Charlie meant standing behind Johnny Doggs. Finn figured that this way was the best bet.

"So," Arthur began, tipping the contents of a small blue bottle onto the table, "What the fuck happened today, Tom? We all heard, shooting in Artillery Square."

Tommy nodded softly, "Yeah, there was. Today I killed two men. (Y/N) killed two as well. Now our enemies will have to wait."

You saw out of the corner of your eye the other three sat at the table looking at you in disbelief. You didn't blame them. You didn't look all that threatening, but that's precisely why you were dangerous. No one would expect the gypsy girl to be wielding a gun.

"I suppose they uh, I suppose they took you by surprise, did they?" Arthur questioned, tapping his blue bottle on the table one last time.

"No. They took (Y/N) by surprise; I knew they were coming." Tommy informed the group, making you and Finn side eye each other.

Why weren't you told that Tommy was going gallivanting in your backyard; with all guns blazing? You two could've helped, or hid.

"Just after Christmas I received a letter from Luca Changretta, offering to spare my son if I gave up Tommy. And I gave Tommy up." Polly said, making your eyebrows shoot up.

She was either very stupid or very brave to do that. You thought the latter.

"Because that was the plan that Polly and I agreed on," Tommy added, "I knew that Luca would want to pull that trigger himself, so I used the set up as bait to bring him in. (Y/N) just happen to be in the wrong place at the right time, and thank fuck she had a gun."

Finn squeezed your waist at this statement.

"Never again, I went in blind. I didn't know what the fuck was happening, or why, and I didn't know that building. Next time you need my help, you tell me beforehand," You warned Tommy, who nodded.

"You're a fucking idiot, Tom." Arthur said, sniffing and jerking around in his seat, the snow probably already taking its effect.

"Look, I didn't get Changretta, but I got two and (Y/N) got two, together we got four. All right? That's it, that's what happened." Tommy said in his 'that's final' voice.

Charles came into the room, and Tommy picked him up.

"Aye, but he's right. I mean, it thought you'd gone soft." Johnny Doggs said, standing up from the table and chuckling, "So you got two? And the lass did too?"

"Yeah, I got three. She only needed one shot each, fucking good aim on her." Tommy said, adjusting his son on his hip.

"Well, I'll drink to you, Tom, you mad bastard. And to you, (Y/N), for your services." Charlie said, raising his glass.

"You make it sound like I'm a whore." You said blankly, making Lizzie chuckle, "No offence, Lizzie."

A laugh went around the room, Finn pulling you in so you were leaning against his body.

"Pretty soon, you are gonna get the shakes when your blood cools down. Now, let's go get a drink," Arthur said to his brother.

"Dad, you got four what?" Charles asked, a big grin on his face.

"I got four shillings for a three-shilling horse." Tommy stated, making you chuckle, "Now, my boy, you come with us, huh?"

You watched as all of the men walked out of the room, bar your husband.

"You going to drink with them?" You asked Finn, who shook his head, "I've got whiskey here."

You hummed in agreement, watching carefully as he poured you a glass, and topped his up. You missed the knowing look that the women down the other end of the table shared.

§§§

Ooof long chapter lol

I have a personal Tumblr blog where I post my photography if you all are interested in keeping up with me, I only started using it today tho lol (I also plan on posting other stuff too lol but I'm new to Tumblr so eh)

@naiwillalwaysloveyou

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 16

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 12

PUBLISHED: 25/05/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

READER'S POV

Luca dialled the betting den, letting it ring. I strained my ears for any other sounds outside, but I couldn't hear any. The window in the room had been covered with a curtain, and the two other doors in the room had been closed. I noticed about three deadbolts on each door. They had planned to kidnap someone.

"Hello?" I heard Tommy's voice come through the phone.

"Thomas Shelby. I think I have something of yours," Luca greeted, looking straight at me.

"Where's the girl?" Tommy asked coldly, and Matteo shoved me roughly into Luca, who put the receiver to my ear, "And I thought we agreed no fucking kids! She's a kid, Luca!"

"Speak." Luca commanded, staring down at me, "And tell him that you're only means to an end."

"I'm here, Tommy." I muttered into the phone, "And he told me to tell you I'm only means to an end."

"Have they hurt you?" He asked, sounding concerned.

"Only when they grabbed me. I came to not long ago." I informed him, then switched to Shelta, "I don't know where I am. Take care of you and yours and mine, forget about me, I'll be fine."

"Don't be fucking stupid, you and yours are mine now. I'll figure it out. I got you into this mess and I'll get you out." Tommy informed me, making me frown.

"Don't you dare try to find me, watch your back so you don't get hurt!" I snapped, then Luca hung up.

"You heard that boys? Thomas Shelby cares enough for her that he'll come for her. Now, all we have to do is wait until they get sloppy." Luca stated, making the men cheer.

I hoped Tommy's word wasn't his law. If he got hurt, it would bring the whole family down, and everything they did, everything they lost, would all be for naught.

FINN'S POV

I was livid. (Y/N), my wife, was on the phone and Tommy wouldn't even let me speak to her. I wanted to know if she was okay too.

"Let's go for a walk," Arthur commanded, clapping my shoulder and leading me out of Tommy's office roughly.

I followed, knowing that I would only cause trouble if I stayed. I slowed down as I heard the quick tinkling of a bell. Finn Junior. Arthur stopped too, until I felt Finn Junior rub up against my legs, no doubt leaving his grey fur all over my pant legs. Arthur started moving again, albeit slower this time so Finn Junior could keep up with us. He lead me to my house.

"Pack a suitcase, Finny boy," He instructed me.

I walked upstairs and did as he asked, grabbing my suitcase from under the bed and throwing some clothes into it.

"What about (Y/N)'s stuff?" I called back down as the living grey doormat came and jumped up on my bed and started cleaning himself.

"Leave it here, she can pack if she gets back!" Arthur yelled in reply.

"When she comes back." I muttered, heading to the bathroom to grab my toiletries.

I refused to think any other way. They wouldn't want to kill you, to them you shouldn't be an important part of my family, just a traveller girl that got married in.

I threw the rest of my stuff into my suitcase, the stuff that could fit into it anyway. I could always make two trips. I hoped.

I walked back out to Arthur, and he led me across the street to his house, and told me to get into his car. I complied, then helped Finn Junior up, sitting him on my suitcase. He curled up on it and purred as Arthur started the car, driving down the streets of Small Heath, taking us to Artillery Square.

He stopped the car and got out. I did the same, holding open the door until the overgrown lint ball got off of my suitcase and jumped out of the car, meowing at me as if thanking me for my services, then grabbed my suitcase and followed Arthur. I got up to the top of the stairs before realising that the tinkling sound had stopped. I turned around, and the cat was sat at the bottom of the stairs.

"Can't you walk yourself up?" I asked, and the cat stayed in his spot, making me roll my eyes.

If (Y/N) were here he'd be up these stairs in the blink of an eye.

Arthur yanked my suitcase out of my grip, holding it.

I looked down at Finn Junior, who was looking up at me expectantly. I sighed and walked down the stairs, crouching in front of him, then he gave me a slow blink. I slipped both my arms under his stomach, right next to his legs like you always did, making sure I had a good grip on him then slowly standing up.

"Hurry up!" Arthur commanded lightly, watching me carry the cat up the stairs rather awkwardly.

Awkward for me. The cat was probably enjoying every second of my slaving around for him.

"You try carrying this cat, it feels heavier than your Billy!" I snapped making him roll his eyes.

With the size of him, I was absolutely sure that he was heavier than Billy. Arthur lead me to the very apartment he was sat in at midday. I cursed that old slut for bringing him here. You'd be safe, at home with the cat, probably eating the biscuits I stashed away if she didn't.

"There you go, brother," He announced, throwing my poor suitcase onto the floor, "Home sweet home!"

"Place for you to spend time with your wife, bring your mates, play games, gamble, cards, and you keep an eye on our backyard," He informed me as I looked around the room, inspecting it, "It's Artillery Square. Place is full of Communists. The strikers. Having a Shelby — or two — will keep them in order."

It was at this moment in time that Finn Junior decided he wanted to get down, wiggling in my arms, then rolling over and trying to scratch my face. I leaned back, dodging his claws, hitting my head on the doorframe in the process, then crouched and let him down, and watched as he sauntered around the room, avoiding any broken glass on the floor.

"You little bastard! I should shoot you and turn you into a rug to put in front of the fire!" I bellowed, making Arthur chuckle.

"Light the fucking fire, take some of this shit off the walls. Curly will be over later with some poison for the rats. Unless your cat eats them." Arthur informed me, making Finn Junior hiss in protest.

Lazy bastard. I'd have to try to get you to stop spoiling him when you came back.

"Arthur," I began shakily, getting his attention.

"Huh?" He responded, turning back around to face me.

"This morning, I wouldn't have been able to pull that trigger. I know I wouldn't, they would have just walked past. I'm not John." I said, a lump forming in my throat, "I know I'm not."

Sometimes, like today, they treat me like John.

"All right," Arthur cut me off gently, coming over and placing a comforting hand on my shoulder, "You're my brother. I know you're not. I know. In the end, its God who pulls that fucking trigger anyway."

"We don't get to decide who lives, and who dies Finn," He reassured, placing his other hand on my other shoulder, "Not us. You just have to ... flip a switch; in your head."

He clapped me on the shoulder, then wordlessly walked out.

It would be hard to flip that switch. The older boys went to France and I didn't. Some days, like today, they throw me in the deep end, and others, like when Tommy decided that we were to marry, they treat me like a child, always deciding and doing things for me. It was unfair, and confusing. I'd have to ask you how you managed when you helped your father and brother.

I looked around, and found a broom in the closet next to the front door.

"We gonna clean this place up for your mum?" I asked the cat, who gave a sound of agreement.

As I swept, all I could focus on was how quiet it was. In the time you had been living with me, it was never quiet in the house. You were always making some sort of noise, whether it was complaining, arguing with me, singing, bouncing your leg and tapping your shoe on the floor, chewing your gum, or practicing your reading.

I missed that noise, and I was sure little Finn did too.

§§§

Y'all I pierced my own nose last night and it actually turned out decent lol

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 13

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 32

PUBLISHED: 04/07/2022

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

THIRD PERSON'S POV

You watched as your sister and her husband finished signing the last paper that they had to, using the bay window seat for help.

“Congratulations. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may seal this union with a kiss!” Jeremiah said, grinning widely at his son and his new daughter-in-law.

You, your Dad, Bonnie, Saoirse, and Finn cheered, clapped and whistled as the pair kissed each other in their nightclothes.

Your cat let out a yowl of protest at the noise, and your dog just barked happily along with you all.

Ezzie and Isiah hadn’t wanted to have a big flashy wedding. They decided to just sign the papers to make it official. A split second decision, of course, made at ten o’clock at night, which is why those two, you and Finn (the witnesses), as well as Jeremiah (the officiant), and your immediate family were now standing in your living room in your sleep clothes, the clock on the wall saying that it was closer to midnight than eleven o’clock.

Ezzie had called you at half past ten, pulling you out of your slumber and telling you to wake the fuck up and get ready because she was going to get married and you were going to be a witness. You had to put Finn’s Wellington boots on to go down to the river, a lantern in hand, to go and wake your father and brother up to tell them that Ezzie was coming to get married.

Your brother was annoyed, asking ‘Couldn’t it wait until sunrise?’

Your father had just chuckled and said ‘Apparently not.’

After getting back to the house, your brother and father in tow, you found Finn standing at the foot of the stairs, having woken up worried because he you weren’t by his side.

You had told him to go wake up Saoirse, and bring her downstairs, because Ezzie and Isiah, along with Jeremiah, were coming so Ezzie and Isiah could make the marriage official. He thought it was a dream until you took off his boot and whacked him with it to prove otherwise.

The room felt slightly cold, even with the fire starting to warm it up.

Jeremiah was smart enough to grab his fluffy black robe to cover himself, along with a pair of brown slippers to keep his feet warm. Your father never seemed to be bothered by the cold, hardened by many nights camping under the stars. Ezzie and Isiah were barefoot on the cold wooden floor, same as Finn. Saoirse and Bonnie were sharing the blanket from her bed, sitting side by side on the green rug. You had on a pair of socks, not liking having cold feet. You could stay warm if you feet were warm. Once your feet were cold, you were done for.

“Can the rest of the celebration wait until morning?” Saoirse asked sleepily, leaning against Bonnie, who chuckled and wrapped the blanket around his youngest sister.

“We’ve got voting for Tommy in the morning,” You reminded Saoirse, who nodded, eyes nearly closed.

You wouldn’t be able to vote, being sixteen, but everyone else in the room, bar Saoirse, could.

“We gonna have a drink before we go to bed? Or do you two just want to go straight home?” Bonnie asked his sister and his new brother in law.

“Let’s just have a cuppa, aye, Esmeralda?” Isiah asked your older sister, who nodded.

“Save the drink for tomorrow, Lord knows we won’t need any before then,” Your sister muttered, making you all chuckle.

You all moved into the kitchen, where Bonnie had started the fire after coming into the house. It was already roaring, the kitchen warm enough.

“The kettle will be boiled, I put it on just after making the fires,” Bonnie stated, helping Saoirse into a chair at the table.

“Good lad,” Your father said, clapping him on the shoulder, making your brother grin.

Bonnie had lit the fire in both of the guest bedrooms, too, knowing that he wouldn’t be able to walk back to camp after this. The cold night air would fuck him right up, he’d probably fall asleep on the way to camp. The ground was soft enough for him to do so.

You grabbed a few mugs and passed them out, Finn doing the same. You grabbed the chocolate powder out, as well as the tea and sugar. Saoirse would most likely have hot chocolate, and go straight to bed.

Everyone made their cups of tea, chattering away. Isiah was a bit quieter than usual, feeling slightly guilty that every other member of the Shelby family couldn’t come, but he remembered Ezzie’s words that it just wasn’t possible to get them all there without a struggle. It was true. The rest all had kids, and it was a big day tomorrow.

He had his best mate, the youngest Shelby sibling, here with him, and that was all that really mattered.

Saoirse was finally asleep in her chair, her hot chocolate finished.

“I wish I was still seven so I could get carried to bed,” Bonnie whined, head laid on the table as he bounced his leg to keep himself awake.

“I feel you,” Isiah replied, barely keeping himself upstanding as he leaned against your kitchen bench.

Finn snorted from his spot next to the cat in front of the fire. He could’ve fell asleep right there and then, the warmth washing over him proving to be an amazing feeling.

“Should we all just sleep here and fuck off in the morning?” Ezzie suggested from her spot next to her husband, and everyone said tired words of agreement.

“We’ve two guest bedrooms, and Saoirse’s got a king sized bed, but we can put her in with us to make room.” You said, rinsing all of the mugs, the warm water running over your hands making you feel sleepy.

“Jeremiah and the newlyweds can take the guest rooms, son and I can take Saoirse’s room,” Aberama announced, and Bonnie got up from the table, supported by Aberama, and headed upstairs.

Bonnie, in his sleepy state, could’ve laughed as Aberama helped make him comfy in the bed. He supposed you were never too old for your dad to tuck you in.

Ezzie and Isiah headed to the downstairs guest bedroom, and Jeremiah went to the upstairs one. Finn lifted your sister bridal style with ease, and took her upstairs. You ushered the animals upstairs, and they went to their beds in your room. You settled in to bed next to your sister, Finn already snoring on the other side of her, and as soon as your head hit the pillow, you were asleep.

•••

“You don’t fuck about, that’s for sure,” Polly said, chuckling as Ezzie showed the older woman her new diamond ring.

It was a small diamond, but a diamond nonetheless. Ezzie hadn’t wanted a big diamond, anyway, Isiah knew that. She only wanted him.

You were all at Polly’s house, in the sitting room. Ezzie and Isiah went to Polly’s, and announced their marriage to the older woman, who then called everyone else over so the pair could tell them the good news. You, Finn, Aberama, Bonnie, Jeremiah, and Saoirse had come to Polly’s not long after, having to get into town to vote, anyway.

Once Isiah and Ezzie told the rest of the family, Arthur, Tommy, and Ada were overjoyed. They had watched Isiah grow up. He deserved a good woman, and a good woman your sister was. They could only stay for about fifteen minutes before going back to their respective houses and hotel suites, having to get ready for voting today.

“Did you have any time to consummate the marriage, then?” Polly teased, making Ezzie and Isiah shake their heads.

“We were too tired. We were fucking lucky to walk to bed,” Isiah answered, Ezzie laying her head on his chest.

“I think we only got about seven hours sleep last night,” Ezzie murmured, tapping her fingers against the green mug in her hands.

“Half ten at night they woke me up,” You complained, but grinned, showing the group it was good natured joking, “And then they decided to invite themselves to stay the night, the nerve of these two!”

“Ah yes, how annoying of us,” Your sister replied, coming over and pinching your cheek, the tea she had in her hand smelling amazing.

“Getoffofme,” You said, trying to squirm out of her iron grip, “I’ll mess your hair up.”

“You’ll not touch your sister’s hair, behave,” Your father warned the pair of you as he sipped on his third cup of coffee, an arm slung lazily around Polly’s waist.

You leaned down and took a drink of your sister’s tea, making her flick your forehead.

“Next time, ask,” Esmeralda scolded you, making you roll your eyes.

“Worse than fucking schoolchildren,” Polly snorted, and watched as you and your sister got closer to her lamp as you roughhoused playfully, “Watch out for that lamp!”

But, it was too late. You had yanked your face out of Ezzie’s grip, and your body followed, colliding with the lamp, sending it down to the floor with a dull ‘thud’.

You winced, looking down at the lamp, then over to the brown haired woman who looked less than pleased.

“Sorry, Poll,” Ezzie apologised as you picked the lamp up and put it where it belonged.

Your husband and Ezzie’s husband sniggered at you and Ezzie’s antics from their spot by the fireplace. Saoirse was dead to the world, curled up into a ball on the couch with Isiah’s coat covering her. Bonnie was laid down in Polly’s bedroom, sleeping his life away. Jeremiah was back at his house, twisting his hair again to make it look fresh.

“It’s alright, love,” The woman spoke, smiling softly at her.

Ezzie returned the grin, then looked at you.

“Now you apologise,” Ezzie demanded, making you look at you in shock.

“Me? You knocked over the lamp!” You replied, a bit too loudly.

Saoirse shifted in her sleep, making you all stop for a few seconds until you knew she’d stay asleep.

“You started it!” Ezzie hissed softly, making you roll her eyes but apologise to Polly for ‘Ez making me knock over your lamp’.

Finn went and sat down on the armchair. You followed your husband, sitting on the arm of the chair. Saoirse shifted once more, and stretched, then rubbed the sleep out of her eyes whilst yawning.

“Dadda?” She called, and Aberama was at her side in an instant.

“I feel like hazelnut chocolate spread,” She stated, making you all chuckle.

“Shall I go and get you some, then?” He replied, smiling at his youngest, who nodded.

Your father was forever wrapped around his children’s fingers. Whereas you scolded Saoirse for eating the hazelnut chocolate spread straight from the jar, Aberama just grabbed her a longer spoon so she could reach the bottom of the jar. He even spoon fed her the spread when she asked him to.

“I’ll go to Bonnie’s and get it, I’ll be back,” Aberama informed her, kissing her head, and Finn threw the man his car keys.

Saoirse whistled a three note whistle, making you look at her in confusion as your father returned the whistle.

“What does that one mean?” Polly asked, coming to sit on the arm of the couch, next to Saoirse.

Saoirse sat up, and snuggled into Polly’s side.

“Three notes, three words.” Saoirse mumbled, still half asleep.

Ezzie came over and put her mug under Saoirse’s mouth, knowing that the child must have been thirsty. Saoirse tilted her head back, and Ezzie followed with the mug, letting Saoirse drink the rest of her tea.

“I love you?” Polly questioned in reply, and Saoirse nodded.

Three notes, three words. You looked at your husband. Three squeezes, three words. You shifted so your mouth was next to your husband’s ear.

“Finn? Do your three squeezes mean three little words?” You asked the ginger haired boy, who blushed, not expecting to get caught out so soon.

“Yes,” Finn breathed in reply, turning to look at you.

“I love you too,” You murmured, and wasted no time closing the gap between his lips and yours.

“Since when the fuck do you two kiss?” Ezzie demanded to know, making you break away from your husband.

“Erm, since you and Isiah dropped the paint off. That day,” You informed your sister, feeling annoyed at how she ruined the mood.

“What? And you didn’t tell me?” She whined, feeling slightly betrayed.

“Yeah, Finn, why didn’t you tell us?” Isiah added, half joking.

You told Ezzie everything, and Finn told Isiah everything, but the pair of you had forgotten to pass on that little tidbit.

“Well you know now,” Finn grumbled, not feeling pleased at the way your sister had interrupted you and him.

“Love you,” Your sister said, grinning cheekily, making you roll your eyes.

She annoyed you, sometimes, but you truly did love her.

•••

You stood with Lizzie at the end of the staircase. She stayed outside with Ruby, in case she fussed inside, and you offered to stay with her, not wanting her to be alone, listening to the voice behind the closed door in anticipation.

“Ronald Carr, Conservative, 3,412. Bernard Hall, Liberal, 4,015. Michael Ross, Communist, 6,406. Thomas Shelby, Labour Party, 48,564.” The voice announced, and you cheered, giving Lizzie a side hug.

The crowd inside the hall went wild, cheering and whistling. The doors opened, and out came Tommy, followed by the rest of the Shelby family, as well as the Golds and the Jesuses.

“I now declare Thomas Shelby to be the new Labour Member of Parliament for the constituency of Birmingham South.” The voice continued as Tommy grabbed his handgun off of one of the doormen, putting it into its holster.

Lizzie made Ruby wave to her dad, then passed her to him once he came to a stop in front of her. Your own husband came and grabbed your hand, bringing it up to his mouth and giving your knuckles a soft kiss, then squeezed your hand thrice, a grin on his face.

You giggled at his antics, squeezing his hand three times in return, then followed the rest of your big, newfound family down the stone staircase.

§§§

Season 4 officially finished!! I’ll be writing some more fluffy chapters between reader and her family, then starting season 5. I’m dreading writing about season 5 though because A) everyone dies lol and B) Finn turns into a little shit.

Also; I have decided to start taking requests for Peaky Blinders x reader one shots; I’ll be taking requests for any of the characters

Love y’all ❤️

- Sunflower x

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NEXT PART

Part 33

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 22

PUBLISHED: 13/06/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1 MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

READER'S POV

I sat across from my dad in the snug of the Garrison. He said that he had something important to tell me, but I wasn't sure what it was. I sipped on my glass of water, waiting for him to speak to me. It was too early in the day to drink, even though it was the weekend.

He looked at me, his brown eyes boring holes right through me. I shifted in my seat, feeling uncomfortable.

Dad reached for his mug of beer and took a drink, then placed it back down on the table, taking a deep breath in.

"I'm sorry," He said, "For putting you through this."

My jaw dropped. Maybe I should have gotten alcohol.

"What do you mean you're 'sorry?'" I demanded, jabbing a finger into the table as I looked at him.

He wouldn't be sorry. Not now, not ever. What's done was done.

"I am — Sorry. For making you get married. I was thinking about myself. I thought about the good of the family, and not what was good for you. I'm a terrible father." Dad admitted, and I narrowed my eyes at him, then raised my hand, swinging it at him.

However, my palm never made contact with his cheek because he grabbed my wrist, stopping me.

"You can't go and get physical whenever you're mad." Dad warned, and I swung my other hand, loving the sound it made at it connected with Dad's face.

"I don't forgive you, what's done is done, and I'm going home, to my husband." I gritted out, standing up and storming off.

I walked outside, and to my car, getting in it and starting it. I pulled a piece of gum out of my pocket and unwrapped it, throwing it into my mouth and chewing angrily as I sped off.

He may have been sorry, but he shouldn't have married me off in the first place.

I drove in an angry silence, bar the aggressive chewing of my poor gum. Once I reached Finn and I's apartment building, I shut off the car, and took a deep breath to calm myself, not wanting to blow up on Finn. I continued taking deep breaths, then got out and walked up to our apartment, where Finn was stood out on the balcony having a smoke, leaning against the railing with his feet crossed, watching the kids play out on the street.

"Not good," I answered Finn's question before he could get it out, heading inside.

He followed me, hot on my heels, as I headed for the kettle and put it on the boil, grabbing my mug, and his, and twelve biscuits, splitting them evenly onto each side of a plate. I spat my gum out into the bin.

Finn stepped up next to me and silently made the two cups of tea as I grabbed a chocolate from the basket on the bench and started eating it. I broke off a piece and held it out to Finn, silently offering it to him. He took it, grabbing the end of it with his teeth and pulling back, then tilting his head up and letting it drop into his mouth.

I chuckled as the kettle started whistling. He pulled it off the boil, then poured it into each of our cups, then poured the milk. I grabbed my own cup and the plate of biscuits, and we headed over and sat on the floor in front of the fire.

"What happened?" Finn asked, watching me as I dunked my biscuit into my tea.

"He said sorry — which I'm grateful for," I stopped to bring my now soggy biscuit out of my tea, and eat the soggy half, "But it doesn't fix anything. It doesn't turn back time and change anything, it doesn't unmarry us. And then he had the nerve to tell me to not get physical whenever I'm mad just because I went to slap him!"

Finn nodded, then took a sip of his own tea. "Um, (Y/N)?"

"Yeah?" I replied, pulling the soggy second half out of my tea then eating it.

"First up, unmarry isn't a word. Secondly — He's right. You can't just get physical any moment of any day. Yeah, he deserved it, and I reckon that you're in the right for slapping him, but you just can't act on it all the time. Being mad is fine, being physical with the people you love isn't." Finn said, making me scowl.

"I know that!" I snapped, taking a sip of my tea to calm myself down.

I closed my eyes and hummed in contentment after I swallowed it, feeling it warm me from the inside out.

"I don't mean slapping and being physical with other people — You do it with objects too, throwing them around, and I do it when I'm drunk but I'm not fond of it, I'm scared it might turn in to something else," Finn confessed, making me open my eyes and look at him.

"Why are you saying this?" I asked him carefully, eyeing him as he picked up one of the oval shaped biscuits and flipped it around in his hand.

"Well, what if we make it a rule? So we can stop it before it gets really bad. I'm not saying that it will, but it could. And what if we blow up in front of Tommy or the kids? That'll fuck us right over." Finn stated, dipping the biscuit into his own cup.

I watched as he moved it up and down, making sure it was soggy, but not enough to break, before pulling it out of the cup.

"That'll be a good rule, but what if we get proper cross and can't help it?" I questioned, grabbing two biscuits and dipping them.

"We should get away from the situation before we get that mad. Go on a walk or something," Finn supplied as I ate the soggy parts of the biscuits.

"What if it's Tommy or someone bigger than us and we can't just walk out?" I pointed out, making him frown.

"We can walk out, they can't keep us there. If you want me to, I can come and get you and say that you need to help me with something." Finn suggested, and I hummed in agreement as I dunked two biscuits again, "It's a hard skill to master but I reckon we'll be able to do it."

I moved them around in my tea, making sure to soak them, "I'll do the same for you. But how am I supposed to know when to get you out of there?"

"I'll — um, I don't know. Wave at you?" Finn decided, and I nodded.

He never did it any other time, so it would be an easy sign that he needed me.

"Shall I do the same?" I said, before dipping my final biscuit.

"Yes," Finn answered, standing up and grabbing the paper and pencil from the mantle, "That way it'll be easy. A universal signal. I'll write it down in our rules."

"Erm, can I write it?" I questioned, feeling slightly embarrassed to be asking a question like that.

Finn just grinned as he slid the sheet and pencil over to me.

"Number six. No throwing or kicking stuff around when cross. Number seven. When the other gives you the signal, you go to their aid." I said as I wrote them down.

Finn looked at the sheet, and nodded in approval, "Your writing's gotten a lot better. It's even clear upside down."

I felt pride bubble up in my chest.

"Thank you," I mumbled as I stood up and placed the sheet back on the mantle.

"Anytime," Finn said, grabbing his last biscuit and breaking it in half, then pouring some of his tea onto the plate and placing a half in it.

I watched as Finn Junior came over and started lapping up the tea. Finn hesitantly reached out and stroked the cat, who continued purring. Finn Junior leaned into Finn's touch, and I smiled.

Maybe my two boys would get along.

•••

I walked with Jenica and Ezzie down to the netball courts. The other day, Ezzie and I signed up and joined the team. Today, we'd have our first practice. I decided to join some club so I wouldn't be stuck at home bored all the time, just until Tommy found some position for me to work in. Even so, I'd still probably play netball, so I was active. I couldn't stand not doing anything. When I camped out, I was always doing something. Hunting, cooking, playing with the kids, walking my dog, doing chores, messing around with the animals, but in our apartment if I swept the floor one more time I'd go mad.

I convinced Ezzie to join with me because it would bring her into town more often so I, Jenica, and Isiah, could see her more often.

We played netball at our camps, because it was quite an easy game to set up, and the rules were sort of simple, but I wasn't the best at it, being a bit on the shorter side, especially compared to the other girls.

Finn didn't know that I joined the team yet. I wanted to make some friends of my own, friends that weren't Finn's friends. Finn's friends were alright, but I needed some of my own so I wasn't hanging off my husband all of the time.

"Ladies! This is Esmeralda and (Y/N)." Jenica said, snapping me out of my thoughts.

I looked around, and the first thing I noticed was how big the range in ages was. There were girls that were as young as me to girls that were Ada's age. There was one woman who looked to be Polly's age, standing there and holding a whistle. I quickly counted. There were nine girls on the court, not including the woman holding the whistle, twelve girls if you included Jenica, Ezzie, and me.

"The Golds, our newest recruits. I'm Coach Lynnette, but you can call me Lynn," The woman with the whistle said, giving us a motherly smile, "There's a pile of dresses here. Go take a few into the change rooms over there and try them on, see which fits you best."

"Yes, Coach." I said, giving her a grin as I stepped forward and and grabbed a few of the blue dresses that looked my size.

I waited for Ezzie to do the same, and we walked to the change rooms together. I stepped into a stall, placing my rucksack down on the ground, getting out of my red dress, shoving it into my rucksack, along with my flats, and tried on the first blue dress there. It seemed to fit. I stepped out of the stall and moved my arms around. It fit just fine.

I grabbed my rucksack and got out my leggings, slipping them on under my dress, then putting on proper socks and a pair of canvas shoes that Jenica leant to me to practice in.

I pulled my water bottle out of my rucksack and waited for Ezzie. She soon emerged from her stall, her own rucksack over her shoulder. I picked up my rucksack and the other dresses, then we headed back out onto the court, where the other girls were warming up. I put my rucksack and water bottle down on the bench, next to Jenica's, and began to warm up next to Ezzie and Jenica.

"Girls! Fall in!" Coach Lynn commanded after a short while, and the other girls immediately stopped what they were doing and ran over to Coach, standing in a semicircle in front of her.

I stopped and went and stood at one end of the semicircle awkwardly.

Ezzie and Jenica went and stood at the other end. Traitors.

"Now, as you can see we have two new players. Esmeralda and (Y/N)," Coach Lynn began, bouncing the netball she held in her hands, then quickly threw it at me.

I caught it, making an 'oof ' sound as I did so, the ball managing to wind me. For an older lady, she was a lot stronger than she looked.

"Good catch," She praised, then looked back at the other girls, "Now, make them feel welcome. Introduce yourselves."

The one next to Ezzie spoke, "Hiya. I'm Florence, but you can call me Flo."

She looked nice enough. She also looked to be my age, her face still retaining the fullness of youth.

"Hilda." She looked Lizzie's age, and very motherly.

"Dorothy — Dottie for short." She was stunning, a bit older than me, and Ezzie.

"Elsie." She looked Ezzie's age, easily.

"Winnie." She looked older than Ezzie, but younger than Hilda.

Her skin stood out the most, white patches against her chestnut coloured skin.

"Ivy." Another angelic face, with a name easy enough to remember.

If I wasn't married to Finn I'd probably try my luck with some of these girls, honest.

"Emily." She was another who still had the childish roundness to her face.

Her voice sounded settled, though, so it was safe to say she was older than me.

"Sarah." She grinned at me, a shy one.

I returned it, making her smile wider. I reckon she'd be a good mate.

"Dinah." I looked at her, standing next to me, and her flawless brown skin and her brown curls up in a bun.

She looked my age, another good person to try and befriend.

"I'm Jenica, but of course you already knew that," Jenica said, making us chuckle.

"Now, girls, we'll start off with warmups, then move up from there. Grab a partner and a ball, practice your passes." Coach commanded, and I moved to go grab Jenica or Ezzie.

Ezzie paired off with Dottie, and Jenica paired off with Ivy.

I suddenly felt like a fish out of water.

"Hiya. Want to be my partner?" Florence — Flo — asked cheerfully as she strolled up to me.

"I'd like that," I replied, and we walked over to one side of the court.

"Are you Finn Shelby's wife?" She asked, and I nodded.

"Cool." She said, "Now, we're going to do a passing drill. You have the ball, and you have to pass it to me. I've got to keep my hands by my sides while you chest pass it to me. I can only move my hands once the ball is in the air and the pass is in progress."

I nodded, and passed the ball to her. She quickly caught it, making my eyes widen. Her reaction time was crazy fast.

I'd have a bit to learn.

•••

I sat with Jenica and Ezzie in my apartment, listening to Jenica pack her nail polish away, the glass bottles clinking against each other like the marbles Bonnie and I used to play with.

Violet was down in my room napping, thankfully. The girls went and grabbed Violet from the babysitters and had showers, and I made cupcakes and put them in the oven before I showered. They were done now, and I whipped cream up and made them butterfly cakes.

"So, you and Isiah, what's been happening?" I demanded, making Ezzie blush.

"Ooooh, yes, tell us!" Jenica added, coming to sit on the floor next to me.

I sat my freshly painted nails on my lap, trying to keep them free of smudges.

They were nearly dry, but I didn't want to risk anything.

"It's been going good. I ring him and he comes to see me and I go to see him and we go for walks or to dinner or to the pictures. I think I really like him," Ezzie confessed, making me 'aww'.

She had never said that about any boys before Isiah. She never blushed around about any boys before Isiah. She was utterly head over heels.

"He's cooking me dinner tonight. I'm having dinner with him and his father." Ezzie added, making my jaw drop.

"You two are that serious?" Jenica questioned, and Ezzie nodded.

"Fucking hell. You must love him a lot to settle down for him," I joked, making the girls laugh.

I was glad that Ezzie was feeling this way about someone. She deserved to be loved.

We heard a cry come from my room, and Jenica hopped up and rushed down there, coming back out with baby Violet on her hip.

"I'll take her home now, she might be hungry." Jenica muttered, and I nodded, standing up, Ezzie doing the same.

"I'll go to hers too, sister, see you later." Ezzie said, gathering her belongings, as well as Jenica and Violet's.

"See you. Call me and tell me how it goes," I demanded as they headed for the door.

"I will!" Ezzie promised, then held the door open for Jenica and Violet.

Jenica headed out first, then Ezzie, then Finn came inside, saying bye to the girls and shutting the door behind him.

"Nice nails," He said after he came and sat in the armchair in front of me.

"Thanks," I replied, then he spotted my rucksack and shoes next to the couch, as well as my netball dress and leggings on the clothes horse in front of the fire.

"What's that for?" He nodded towards them.

"I play netball now." I informed him, and he hummed in acknowledgment.

He leaned back in the chair and took off his cap, "When's your first game?"

"Saturday, two o'clock, at our courts, against a team from Camden town." I replied, moving to the kitchen and grabbing two cupcakes from the tray.

I bit and pulled the paper down on one with my teeth then bit into the cupcake as I walked back over and handed Finn the other.

"You spoil me," Finn commented, making me chuckle.

"I'll make sure to make your game." Finn promised, then took a bite of his own cupcake, "Holy fuck. Can I take some to work tomorrow? I want the lads to know that none of their girls can bake like you."

I rolled my eyes, "Yes, Finn, you can take some to work tomorrow."

§§§

Please note — I do not play netball outside of sports/PE lessons lol, I do know the basics and stuff but I don't play it enough to know *everything*

What do you guys think of the reader joining a netball team to make new friends? Yay or nay?

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

TAGLIST

@meadownicolee

@toothlessmcleod

@shelundeadxxxx

@bethabear12

@im-your-possession

NEXT PART

Part 23

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 21

PUBLISHED: 12/06/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

CONTRARY TAGLIST

THIRD PERSON'S POV

You and Finn were sat at either end of your dining room table in Artillery Square, you in a pair of jeans and a yellow sweater, and him in a grey suit that you helped pick out of his wardrobe, only just getting home from work. He had asked your opinion on his clothes, which you found funny. He never did it before. He told you that he wanted to look decent for an important meeting with Tommy, which was fair enough.

You had stayed at home, going shopping, reading books, and practicing mathematics, which bored you endlessly. Maybe you'd join a club, so you'd have something to do until Tommy decided you were of use.

It had been a couple of days since your family had started camping on the grounds of Arrow House, and a couple of days since you and Finn had taken Saoirse clothes shopping, so you could have fresh clothes at your apartment if you and him ever needed to look after her. You did the same for Finn's nephews and nieces, making sure to get sizes bigger than they needed as well, knowing how quickly children grew. You had also bought a trundle bed for each of your beds, in case you ever needed to babysit a lot of kids at a time. You had a feeling that they were going to get some good use.

If Esme replied to your latest message to her, you'd have all seven of her and John's kids here sometime soon, for a two day visit, watched closely by Jenica's sister, Tatiana, and the Lee boy she ran away with. His name was Trevor, according to Tatiana, who told you last Sunday after church, when you went over to Jenica's for a cup of tea.

Finn picked up his pencil, and you did the same, still confused as to why he sat you at the table in the first place.

"We are going to make a mind map," Finn announced, "One for me, and one for you."

You wordlessly wrote Finn's name on the white sheet in front of you, him doing the same.

"Now, you're going to write ten things that you think describe me. I'm going to do the same. After we're done our ten things about me, we'll do ten things about you, then show each other." Finn announced, and you nodded, already writing the first word about Finn down in your neat print.

He had learned this exercise from Uncle Charlie, not long after Finn moved in with him.

Kind :)

Throughout this whole ordeal, Finn was kind to you. Most of the time. He was kind to your family, all of the time.

Attractive

You'd be stupid to not write that one down. Finn would be stupid to not see it. You wondered if he got his looks from his mother or his father. You hadn't ever seen a photo of either of them. He didn't have any. You were sure he didn't want any.

Brave

He was brave. Braver than you'd ever be, you were sure.

Confident

You saw the way he walked — no, strutted — around Small Heath as if he owned it. He may as well have, being a Shelby. It was attractive, his confidence.

Considerate

Always buying more biscuits, buying more beds, buying clothes, bringing home yellow things that he said reminded him of you. Your favourite thing that he was brought home was a painting of a sunflower, which now sat on the mantle of your fireplace, bringing some life to the dull place.

Loyal

He'd die for his family if he had to. You hoped that he never would die for them, but instead die peacefully, after living a life that he wanted.

Adaptable

Moving around houses after his family moved away, getting married to you, doing business when Tommy asked him to then going back to being the useless younger brother — none of these things seemed to faze him all that much. They did faze him, you knew that; but he didn't show it much. Maybe he was used to it.

Trustworthy

You'd trust him with your life. You have trusted him with your life. He takes care of you as much as he can, but he's still only just a child too.

Reliable

He showed up for the family company, whenever they needed him to. He was there for you too, most of the time.

Charming

You couldn't deny it. His boyish smile, nice words, and the way he managed to do things just right so everything would go his way — it was his charm.

"Done." You said, looking over at Finn, who was staring down at his piece of paper in frustration, brows furrowed.

"Start yours, then," Finn muttered as he penned down another word.

You nodded, and wrote your name down on the other sheet of blank paper.

Unkind

That was an easy one. You didn't mean to be; you just were. It was as hardwired into your system as your need to travel.

Rude

You tried not to be. A lot. But it always slipped through the cracks and you were snapping at people who didn't even deserve it.

Aggressive

You were forever snapping at people, forever throwing stuff around. You tried to stop but you just couldn't. You were only sixteen. You could grow out of it if you tried. You probably should try.

Aloof

You had friends, yes, but you were sure that they didn't like you nearly as much as you liked them

Callous

Other people's suffering didn't bother you. Not all that much.

Petulant

Childishly rude. Something you had yet to grow out of. Something you weren't sure you would ever grow out of.

Moody

Your moods changed more than Tommy Shelby's.

Half the time you weren't even sure why. They just did. Most of the time you couldn't identify them.

Resentful

Resentful for a lot of things. Your father ever letting you live with her, your father forcing you to get married.

Impatient

There were many things you were. Patient was not one of them.

Unlovable

She always said that you were. She wouldn't say it unless it was true, surely.

You placed your pencil down, and looked over at Finn, who finished writing and flipped his pencil around in his hands.

"You done?" He asked you, and you nodded.

He gathered his two sheets of paper and got out of his chair, going and standing in front of the lit fireplace. The cat hissed and swiped at his ankles, obviously not pleased with Finn standing so close to the cat bed.

"I'll throw you in the fire!" Finn bellowed, nudging the cat bed away from him with his foot.

The cat gave a not-so-pleased mewl and curled back up on the bed, purring. You rolled your eyes at the squabbling pair and went and stood up next to your husband.

"We swap lists," He informed you, and you nodded, handing him yours with one hand and grabbing his with the other, still feeling confused.

You read his mind map about himself first.

Likeable

Adaptable

Ambitious

Handsome - you rolled your eyes at that one. Cocky prick.

Strong

Trustworthy

Funny

Helpful

Selfish

Greedy

You let out a small 'oh', and looked at your husband.

"You're not selfish or greedy." You protested, looking at your husband.

He was anything but, and you knew it.

"You think I'm attractive?" Finn asked, smirking at you, ignoring your statement completely.

Once you rolled your eyes he straightened up and cleared his throat, knowing you were serious.

"It's — I am sometimes. No one's all good, or all bad. It's impossible." He explained, and you nodded, understanding.

You felt more bad than good, though, and your sheet of paper with your name on it reflected that.

You read through his list for you, and felt your heart melt inside your chest.

Kind

Patient

Loving

Affectionate

Compassionate

Loyal

Reliable

Patient

Attractive

Loveable

You felt your eyes well up with tears and quickly brought the sleeve of your sweater up and wiped the stray tears away with the cuff.

"Are you alright?" Finn asked, eyeing you carefully.

You felt compelled to go and lock yourself in your room, feeling awkward under his gaze, but kept your sock covered feet firmly planted on the rug covered ground.

"Yes — fine." You said feebly, then cleared your throat, "You're — You're too kind, describing me like that."

"It's true," He insisted, and you shifted from foot to foot disbelieving his words.

"You're only saying that because you're my husband." You objected, making him furrow his brows together, and hold up the list that you wrote about him.

"Did you only say these things because you're my wife?" He questioned, and you shook your head.

He really and truly was all of those things. If you weren't his wife and still managed to find your way into his life, you'd write the exact same things, over and over again.

"Exactly — We don't actually do anything out of marital obligation, do we? So, it must be truthful." Finn finished casually, and you agreed with that statement.

You didn't feel it yet, but you agreed with it. You watched as he switched the pages, looking at your mind map about yourself. He frowned, and handed it back to you.

"The only fucking fucking true words on that list is petulant and moody. I'm petulant and moody. Any growing person is petulant and moody." Finn stated, and it was your turn to frown.

Who was he to tell you how you saw yourself?

"Just hear me out for a few seconds, yeah?" He said, raising his arms, and you folded yours across your chest and nodded, "How much of that is you talking about yourself and her words about you?"

That made you stop and think. She called you all of those words, not you. She called you those words enough that they got jumbled into your thoughts and you couldn't think of yourself any other way.

What did you think of yourself? You weren't entirely sure. That didn't sit right with you.

"Can I throw this list into the fire?" Finn asked, holding it up, "It's not truthful. Doesn't count."

You sighed, but nodded. He folded it into a paper plane then threw it into the fire, cheering as it caught alight. You laughed at your husband, then held up the two sheets he gave you, "What do I do with these?"

"You can throw the one about me out, I don't want that — You can do whatever you want with the one about you," Finn replied, heading down the hallway and into his room.

You stood in front of the fire, and somehow felt lighter, as if a weight was lifted off of your shoulders. You placed Finn's list on the couch, not really sure what to do with it just yet. You started humming as you reread the list, then suddenly felt wrong.

Surely that wasn't how Finn saw you. Surely he didn't like you that much. You weren't that nice.

Finn noticed your lack of humming and went back out to the living room, where you were stood in front of the fire, arms crossed on your chest, deep in thought.

Finn knew that face. That was the face you always had on before you got cross and pushed him away. He wouldn't let it happen this time.

"What's wrong?" He asked, making you turn and face him, "Are you cross at me or at something else."

"I don't know," You answered sourly, making his eyebrows shoot up in surprise.

"Do you know why you're cross?" Finn asked carefully, placing his hands in his pockets.

You shook your head, feeling lost. You looked down at the carpet, and stamped your foot. Finn watched your every move.

"This is why I didn't want to marry you. I'm no good as a person." You grumbled, "Can't even get cross the right way. I don't deserve this. You."

Finn felt a pang in his chest. You deserved whatever you wanted, especially with the way your life turned out. He'd give you whatever you wanted, if it made you stop thinking of yourself in that way.

"I'll take care of you," Finn vowed, looking you in the eyes, which made you scowl and turn your back to him.

He watched your shoulders rise and fall as you took deep breaths.

"Taking care of me is rotten work!" You protested, spinning around on the spot to look at your husband, then bringing your hands up and swiping forcefully at your eyes with the back of your wrist.

"Not to me. Not if it's you." Finn softly replied, stepping over towards you, holding a hand out.

You could tell by his tone that he truly meant it. You met him in the middle and fell into his embrace. He hugged you tightly, and you did the same, gathering the back of his coat in your tight grip.

"It's going to be hard." You informed him, the words muffled by his chest, "For me and for you. I didn't get to grow properly."

"I know. We'll help each other learn, though," He cooed, rubbing your back, "And you can grow here. With your family. With Aberama, Saoirse, Bonnie, Esmeralda, Tuck, and that mangy little cat who always spills my tea."

"And you?" You asked, looking up at him.

He thought you looked beautiful, with the way your tears clung to your eyelashes, framing your gorgeous (E/C) eyes.

"And me," He confirmed, "And Polly and Arthur and Lizzie and whoever else you want to grow around."

You have a hum of agreement, laying your head on his chest and listening to his heartbeat.

"It's really fucking hard, Finn. I wasn't allowed to have feelings so I don't know what the fuck to do with them. She always said that's why I was unlovable." You admitted, and you could feel Finn tense under you.

"She's horrid and if I ever see her again I'll take her eyes and throw her into the cut." Finn swore, holding you a bit tighter than he was before.

You listened to Finn hum as he shifted on his feet, and managed to calm down.

"I — I won't be able to stop seeing myself like that straight away. Rome wasn't built in a day." You said, staring into the fireplace, watching as the flames danced.

"I know, but it would be a good time to start now." Finn replied, and in that very moment, you decided to keep the mind map he gave you, to pin it in your wardrobe so you could see it every day.

To remind you what you were really like, not what she said you were like. She didn't even really know you anyway.

§§§

I literally love this chapter I got the idea from this end of year activity that a support learning staff member at my school made us do and omfg I do it whenever I feel bad about myself (ask my friends what they think of me) and I am then ultimately reminded that I have a skewed view of myself because I am much harder on myself than needed

Also I feel like we're all on the same level but I'll draw a floor plan of the Artillery Square apartment soon lol I feel like it could confuse some of you

You guys have no idea how hard it was for me to make up names and ages for all of John's six, soon to be seven kids lmaooo — literally only one has a name (Katie) and there's no ages stated.

Also!! Would anyone want to become mutuals on social media lol

Also part 3 — Would anyone like to become part of a tag list for this work?? I’ll make a post after this and you guys can like it or whatever to let me know that you’re interested - I’ll also add it to my masterlist + the top of this post + other posts so it won’t get lost

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 22

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 23

PUBLISHED: 14/06/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

FINN'S POV

I just wanted to go home and drink. Tommy fucked up the good mood you had put me in. The other day, he had stepped me up, giving me an actual job instead of following him around doing endless bits and bobs. A job of making sure everything went smoothly at the racetracks, and that nothing happened to our bookies, and that every bit of money that we made was accounted for.

Today, he had someone following me around whilst I was doing that job. A new boy, no less. It was insulting. Always looking over my shoulder, asking me what I was doing, making sure I was doing it the way Tommy wanted. I grew up around racetracks, I knew how it all worked, Tommy and the boys showed me how it all worked. I could do it in my sleep. It made me feel stupid, the way Tommy treated me sometimes.

I walked up the stairs, and along the balcony. I stopped outside our apartment and pulled out my cigarette case, putting one between my lips, then pulling my lighter out of my pocket. I flicked it open and tried to light my smoke with it, to no avail. Fuck me. This just wasn't my day.

I placed the loose cigarette and empty lighter back into my pocket, and walked into the apartment, taking off my cap as I did so. I was immediately met by the smell of a cake cooking, and the chatter of kids.

You were there, standing next to Karl, Saoirse, and Bonnie as they licked batter off of two beaters and a spoon. You were holding a bowl and two spoons, your hair pulled up into a high messy bun.

You looked away from Bonnie, and your eyes lit up and you beamed me a smile as soon as you saw me stood there, "Finn! I saved you some batter from our celebration cake."

You held up the bowl and spoons proudly. Everyone else said various words of greeting, but were too preoccupied with eating batter. Karl swiped some off of Saoirse's beater, then she swiped some off of Bonnie, who then tried to swipe some off of you, to no avail. You laughed at your brother's crestfallen face, and he ruffled your hair, making you squeal.

Your smile soon dropped as you realised something was up with me. You asked Bonnie to put everything in the sink after they were done as you dropped the teaspoons into the bowl. You came over and looped your arm through mine, leading me down to your room and shutting the door behind us.

"What's wrong, Finn?" You asked softly, a hint of worry in your tone, going and placing the bowl on your bed, then coming to stand in front of me.

"Fucking — Tommy fucked me over." I grumbled, and you gave me an understanding look.

"Want to talk about it?" You questioned, going and sitting on your bed, tapping the spot next to you.

I went and sat down, leaning against the footboard of your bed, as you moved and made yourself comfortable up at the headboard, bowl in hand.

"Tommy had Richard Carpenter following me around all day at the racetracks, asking me questions about every single thing I was doing." I complained, and you scrunched your nose up, placing the bowl down.

"He asked Dick, of all people? One of the new boys? The one who wouldn't know his own knob from a doorknob?" You said incredulously, making me snort, even though I was proper mad.

"Yes, that one. He even accused me of dipping my hand!" I threw my hands up in frustration, and your jaw dropped.

I also didn't like Richard because of the way he always tried to flirt with you; even in front of me. Disrespectful prick. He thought just because he was older than me he could boss me around, even though I had the seniority in rank.

"That's a no go. What did Tommy say?" You questioned, shifting around on the spot.

"He told me to suck it up." I grouched, and you frowned, "Sometimes he sees me as a man but I think he still sees me as the little boy who he left behind with Poll when him and the others went to War. I don't know what to do."

"Do you want some advice?" You asked, and I shrugged.

"Sure." I answered, not sure how it would help.

"Well, you're still growing. You should tell Tommy that it frustrates you, but go with the flow too. You're still a bit younger than him and the others, so it might be hard for them to see that you're a man, especially because of your age gap." You advised, and I nodded.

That made sense. I only turned eighteen just after New Years. I felt eighteen, but whether or not they saw me as eighteen was the question. I'd call Tommy later and tell him not to let Richard follow me around. Maybe it was one of his tests. He liked testing people's loyalty, and his power. Sometimes.

You picked the bowl back up and shuffled down so you were near me, "Now, would you like some batter?"

"I'd love some," I answered honestly, and you placed the bowl in my lap, sitting with your back against the wall, but still leaving a gap between us.

I stretched my arm out and made a noise, and you came and leaned into my side. I wrapped my arm around you, and you made yourself comfortable, snuggling into my side. When you were this close, I could smell your flowery shampoo and conditioner, as well as your perfume. I took a deep breath, and felt all of the tension I was holding leave my body, your familiar scent chasing it away.

You grabbed a spoon and ran it along the side of the bowl, gathering a bit of the chocolate batter, then nudged me, bringing it up to my mouth. I dipped forward and bit the spoon, and you let it go, the bowl of it in my mouth. My eyebrows shot up. This batter was better than any cake batter I'd ever tasted, and I'd tasted a lot of batters.

You gathered your own batter on your own spoon, and placed it into your mouth. I could hear the chatter of the kids and Bonnie through the door, but I wasn't ready to go out yet. I wanted to stay here, with you, eating batter from your celebratory cake.

Hang on. Why were you celebrating?

"Why'd you bake this cake for?" I asked you, and you smiled softly, looking down as you gathered more batter.

"Dad and Tommy are becoming permanent business partners, Dad's gonna be a foot soldier, doing the dirty work. So is Bonnie, when he's got the time." You informed me, "They'll be staying here, with me, and not leaving."

"That's great, honest." I replied, giving you a quick smile as I brushed hair out of your face with my free hand so you didn't get it dirty with batter or eat it.

It really was great that you'd have your family here with you, that you got to stay connected. I'm sure Isiah would be pleased by your sister staying here, too.

“Oh!” You said suddenly, and sat up, feeling around your pockets.

You started patting your chest, and reached down your shirt, then pulled out a lighter from your bra.

“I bought two — One for me and one for you, just in case the other doesn’t have theirs. Sorry if the letters are a bit messy, I carved it in myself,” You explained, handing it to me.

I looked at it under the light. ‘F.S.’ Was carved into it, very neatly might I add. I spotted a little carving of a razor blade down in the bottom corner, making me snort. It was a nice, thoughtful gift.

“I love it, thank you,” I said, giving you a soft grin.

You blushed and looked away, mumbling something about it not being a big deal. The smile stayed on my face as I gathered more batter on my spoon, feeling much better than I was when I walked in the apartment door.

•••

THIRD PERSON'S POV

Today was the day. Your first netball game. You were excited, and nervous. Everyone came to watch you play. You were sure Finn told them, as you kept it quiet.

You looked over at the seats that lined the courts as you grabbed your bib, WA printed on the front and back in white, and pulled it on over your netball dress. Ezzie wasn't playing this quarter, she was on the bench, going to swap out Flo when she got tired.

You snorted as you saw your family take up nearly an entire ground row. From left to right, there was , Curly, Uncle Charlie, Jeremiah, Isiah, Michael, Polly, Aberama, Bonnie holding an upset Violet, Saoirse, Finn with Charlie on his lap and the cat at his feet, Karl, Ada, Tommy, Lizzie, Linda with Billy on her lap, Arthur, and Johnny Doggs.

Charlie had noticed you first, in your yellow netball dress, and pointed at you, calling out your name, prompting everyone else to look. You gave them all a smile and a wave as you walked over to your starting spot on the goal third, making sure your feet were behind the line. You looked over at your husband once more.

He was watching you carefully. You had braided your hair back into twin braids, so it wouldn't get into your face whilst you played. He liked the look on you, this way he could see your face properly.

‘Good luck’ You saw him mouth, and you gave a thumbs up, mouthing back ‘thanks’.

You focused your attention back on the umpires, your own Coach Lynn, and one from Camden Town, as Coach Lynn flipped a coin for who was starting off with the ball. Flo picked heads, and the other Centre picked tails. You watched as the silver coin left Coach Lynn’s hands, and landed on the ground.

“Heads!” She announced, and you grinned as she gave Flo the ball.

Flo stepped up into the centre circle, and the whistle was blown. You stepped into the centre third, and made sure you were in front of the other team’s WD.

“Flo!” You called out, and the pass came, you catching it in front of your chest, then pivoting around, looking for an unmarked girl on your side.

A flash of blonde in a yellow netball dress caught your eye, no red dress near her. Ivy. You threw the ball, and ran up to the goal circle. Ivy threw the ball back to you, and you threw it to Hilda. She pivoted around, facing the ring, and threw the ball back to Ivy, knowing that she wouldn’t be able to get the shot with the string bean standing in front of her.

“Uncle Arthur, she looks taller than you!” Karl gasped, pointing to the Camden Town GK as Ivy got the goal.

“And she doesn’t even have heels on.” Saoirse added, making all of the adults chuckle.

Finn was shocked. When you said that netball was a fast-paced game, he didn’t doubt you. But he didn’t think that it was that fast.

“The time it took to get the first goal was less than thirty seconds!” Ada exclaimed, looking down at her watch.

“They’re not allowed to hold the ball for longer than three.” Finn informed her, not taking his eyes off the game, “If they do, it’s a held ball, and it’s an automatic swap over. That’s why they’re always moving.”

Finn knew the rules off by heart now. You had told him, and answered every question that he had about your ‘confusing’ game, just so he could watch it and not be confused about what was happening. He refused to go and support you and not know what was happening. It was a stupid thing to do. A fool could do that. Finn wasn’t a fool. He was a Shelby.

Finn groaned as Camden Town team got the ball because Dinah passed it to Ivy.

“What’s happening now?” Saoirse demanded, grabbing Finn’s arm.

“Dinah, that one with the GD on her bib? She passed it all the way down to Ivy, the one with the GA on her bib. That’s not allowed, it needs to be touched in the centre third, and Dinah threw it from Camden’s goal third down to our goal third, so Camden’s got the ball.” Finn said, gesturing as he did so to make his point clear, and Saoirse nodded.

She understood. Kind of.

Polly and Aberama started chuckling, making Finn look at the pair.

“Nothing,” Polly said, and Finn turned his eyes back to the game.

The pair knew that you wouldn’t go support someone’s game and sit through numerous rundowns of the rules unless you cared for them and wanted to make an effort, and Finn did exactly that.

•••

Arthur watched you and your table as you drank, keeping an eye on you lot and making sure no one bothered you and dampened your mood, per Finn’s request.

The girls had asked you out for drinks after your win, and you agreed. As you drank your gin, your cheeks ruddy and heart full, you felt like life was as perfect as it could get.

§§§

AHHH first netball game!! Sorry for not making it longer lol but I figured that you all didn’t want to read a full game of netball lmao

Also I do know that some of my links to posts don’t work so I’ll fix those sometime soon!!

Love y’all x

- Sunflower ❤️

TAGLIST

@meadownicolee

@toothlessmcleod

@im-your-possession

@bethabear12

@paisley-37

NEXT PART

Part 24

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 24

PUBLISHED: 15/06/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

READER'S POV

I sat with Lizzie in her office. She was training me to take over for her when she went on maternity leave.

I was also taking a correspondence course, where I was learning to type so I could do it without looking. She was teaching me too, which is what we were focusing on at this very moment.

A knock sounded on Lizzie's office door.

"Come in," She called out, and the door opened, revealing Saoirse, Charlie, and Billy, the latter holding a bunch of roses.

With Charlie holding his hand for support, Billy walked over and handed me the bouquet, a big grin on his face.

"Aunty Bee!" Billy said joyously as I picked him up and put him on my lap.

He was too little to say my actual name yet, so he called me my family nickname.

"For you, Aunt (N/N), from Uncle Finn," Charlie informed me as he headed over to Lizzie and gave her a cuddle, asking her how his little sister was.

I squeezed Billy and thanked him for bringing me the bouquet, making him giggle.

"They're for all of your efforts in training to be a secretary. And just cause Finn felt like it." Saoirse recited, then I put Billy down, watching as he toddled back over to Saoirse, then Charlie ran back out, Saoirse giggling as she shut the office door behind her.

I looked at the bouquet, running my finger over a soft petal.

"You're smiling," Lizzie pointed out, and I could hear the smile in her own voice.

"I hadn't noticed," I mused, placing the roses down next to the typewriter.

"How's it going with Finn?" Lizzie inquired as I copied what she already had on the sheet, trying not to look down at my hands as I pushed each key.

"Good." I replied simply, and it was.

"Give me a bit more than that, I want details!" Lizzie complained teasingly, grinning as she picked up her cup of tea.

"We jump each other's bones every night and only pretend to hate each other so you don't catch on to our passionate feelings for each other." I said matter-of-factly, making her snort at my lie.

"Come on," She begged, and I rolled my eyes, pulling my hands back from the typewriter, knowing that I wasn't going to get anymore practice done right now.

"It's good — We don't fight over petty things, he buys me gifts, as you can see, and I buy him gifts. He ends up in my bed more often than not, because we read a book together or just talk and he falls asleep there. I don't mind it. I don't hate him anymore. I like him — as a friend." I said, and she gave me a knowing look.

"I used to like Tommy as just a friend, and look where that got me," She replied, turning to the side.

Her bump was showing now, quite prominent. She was glowing. She only had two more months until she gave birth.

"I'm not going to end up like that!" I protested, but whether I meant pregnant or in love I wasn't sure.

Lizzie gave me a look that said she believed otherwise.

"Has he taken you on a date yet?" She asked, and I shook my head, making her gasp.

"Has Tommy taken you on a date yet?" I questioned, and she rolled her eyes but nodded, a soft smile appearing on her face.

"I'm not married to Tommy, though. You, however, are married to Finn, you should go out sometime." She reasoned, then sipped her tea.

"Ugh, fine. I'll tell him that you said that he needs to take me out, then." I threw my hands up in fake exasperation, but couldn't help the butterflies in my stomach as I thought about Finn taking me on a date.

Lizzie cheered, making me laugh as I put my fingers back on the keys. I quickly finished typing, with no errors this time.

I got up and stretched, going to stand next to Lizzie, grabbing my own cup of tea and taking a sip.

"How's it going with you," She asked, and I could hear the concerned undertone in her voice.

"Better," I answered, and it was true, "But I still feel unloved sometimes, even though I know I am and I deserve to be. By others and myself."

Lizzie gave me a sympathetic look. As a former whore I fully believed that she knew those feelings all too well.

"Do you tolerate yourself?" Lizzie inquired, and I snorted.

"Barely," Was my bitter reply.

"Well; you need to be neutral. Rome wasn't built in a day. It's not about saying that you're the kindest or anything like that, it's just about thinking about the small things, like how you say hello to everyone when you see them. And you've got to take notice of the little things too, not only what you do but what other people do for you. That way you won't get lost in your own head," Lizzie explained, making me nod, "But don't get too happy. Everyone's down sometimes."

I hummed in agreement.

"Shall we make a list?" Lizzie asked, sitting herself down in the chair in front of the desk gracefully, "I used to write down one thing for each person, but now I don't need to, because I know that I'm appreciated. And loved."

She caressed her bump on the last word, a smile finding its way onto her face. I 'awwed'. I wanted to be that happy, and I knew that it was attainable.

"I'll write down the names of everyone in the family, then," I replied, grabbing a spare piece of paper and a pen.

I had been focusing on typing too long. I needed a small break. I'd probably go seek out Finn after this, and go to lunch.

Dad - Always sits on the sides of couches in case I want to sit on the arm

Ezzie - Signed up for netball with me so I wouldn't be the only new girl

Bonnie - Carries my favourite chocolate in case he sees me

Saoirse - Leaves me notes about how she loves me whenever she stays over

Polly - Knows how I take my tea

Arthur - Looks after us at the Garrison

Tommy - Gave me a decent job

Finn - Carries spare ribbons and hair ties for me

Michael - Sends me clothes that I might like from America

Charlie Strong - Always finds me something interesting in his packages

Jeremiah - Taught me how to read

Isiah - Always tells me how Ezzie is doing if he's heard from her and I haven't

Linda - Bought me books that I could read

Lizzie - Teaches me new things

Charlie - Called me Aunty first

Ada - Showed me how to walk in heels

Karl - Made me a painting at school

Johnny Doggs - Updates me and Finn on how Esme and the kids are going

Curly - Looks after Charlotte when I ask him to

I placed my pen down, and Lizzie looked at the page.

"I thought you would've put the way that Finn dragged me around to buy four-poster beds so you could be comfortable in each other's beds," Lizzie said dryly, making my eyebrows shoot up.

It made sense now. The curtains could block out the light from my window for Finn, and I could still get my air whilst there was no light hitting us.

I felt my stomach growl, making me blush.

"Go have lunch," Lizzie made a shooing gesture, making me chuckle, and say see you later.

I grabbed the picnic basket from my feet and crossed the room to the door, opening it.

Tommy was standing just outside of the door. He quickly stepped out of my way with a nod. I nodded back at him, and headed down to Finn's office, which had finally had his name on the door.

I knocked, and heard a faint 'come in'. I opened the door, and Finn was just pulling on his coat, getting ready to leave.

He grinned when he saw me, which sent butterflies through my stomach. He quickly crossed the room, adjusting his cap on his head

"Did the flowers get there alright?" He asked as he walked through the door.

I swung it shut behind him, "Yeah, Billy walked them to me with Charlie's help."

"He does love his aunty Bee," Finn chuckled as I slipped my free hand into his.

He gave it a squeeze as we walked through the building, and exited it. We were heading to the park for lunch, to have a picnic.

We chatted as we walked, talking about the fact that we would have to buy new furniture. Esme had agreed to let the kids come visit on the weekend, and the furniture at the apartment didn't have the room to fit nine people, so we had to buy a new dining table, and a new set of armchairs and lounges. Maybe even two lounges. We agreed to get a dark colour, though, to hide stains with ease.

Soon enough, we arrived at the park, and picked a spot on the grass to sit on. I grabbed the blanket out of the basket and handed it to Finn, who spread it out. I sat down, putting the basket next to me.

Finn grabbed out the sandwiches, and the lemonade, handing me mine.

"You know, Lizzie is very disappointed that you haven't taken me on a date yet. She's ordering you to do so." I said as I unwrapped my sandwich, making him laugh.

"Well, tell her I'll take you to the carnival on the weekend, then." Finn replied easily, leaning back and laying his head down in my lap, removing his cap.

"I shall," I replied, then leaned back and took the first bite of my sandwich, being mindful not to drop any crumbs onto Finn.

I finished my first sandwich, and crumbled up the paper that I wrapped my sandwich with, throwing it back into the picnic basket.

"Play with my hair?" Finn requested, and I dusted my hands off, then ran them through his gelled curls, making him hum in approval and close his eyes.

I looked down at my husband, the sun shining down on his freckled face. I brought one hand away from his hair and gently stroked his jaw line, making him shudder.

"Not eating lunch until you get back?" I asked him, making him nod, eyes still closed.

Most of the times he ate with me, but sometimes he didn't feel like lunch until later. Those days were usually the ones in which he was fed up with his work.

I looked up at the sun, and sighed as I felt it shine down on my face. It wasn't too strong, a pleasant warmth. The rest of today was going to be a good day. I could feel it.

I thought about Finn taking me to the carnival, and I felt my face get a tiny bit warmer, and I couldn't blame it on the sun. I felt giddy, and excited.

§§§

Okay so I brought their first date forward lol it was originally going to be in chapter 30 but I got impatient 💔

Also I started this story one month ago!! Thank you all for supporting me with it :))

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 25

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@toothlessmcleod

@im-your-possession

@bethabear12

@paisley-37

@shelundeadxxxx

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 3

PUBLISHED: 15/05/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

FINN'S POV

You and I were now sat around the fire with the rest of your family, having eaten our dinner of vegetable soup and flatbread. You were sitting next to Esmeralda, your younger sister Saiorse on your lap as she chattered about her adventures today. I was in between Aberama and Bonnie, a situation I very much wanted to avoid.

I looked at you as you flipped your hair back over your shoulder so it wouldn't be in Saiorse's way, then looked at your other two sisters. They looked one and the same, anyone would think that Saiorse was Esmeralda reborn. But you, you looked different — and you felt different.

Your eyes flickered over to me as you were talking to Esmeralda about someone named Brianna, and I felt my face flush as I realised I had been caught staring.

"Come on, we're talking a walk, Shelby." Bonnie's voice sounded from my right, making me look at him.

He was already standing up, lantern in his hand. I looked over at you, and you raised your eyebrows as if to say 'go with him'.

I stood up, and he wordlessly turned on his heel and went. I followed him, feeling entirely at his mercy. I heard from Arthur what he did to Billy Mills, and I'm nowhere near as good a fighter. I didn't even have my cap on me in case he made a move.

We walked a fair distance away from the fire before he stopped, and turned to face me, the lantern illuminating the scene around us making him look all the more scarier as he looked down at me. I drew myself up straighter, trying to make myself seem taller.

"You be gentle with my sister any way you can, you hear me, Shelby? Because if I find out you haven't I'll kill you and mail your body back to Tommy in fifty different parcels," Bonnie warned, "She doesn't need a harder life, not right now."

I nodded, the last bit of his statement making more questions than answers.

"I'm about to give you a photo, put that photo in your bag and show your brothers because the woman in that photo is not allowed to come near (Y/N) under any circumstances, and if I found out that she's come near (Y/N) I'll hit you so hard I'll send your nose up into your fucking brain, do you understand?" Bonnie stressed, and I could only nod.

He reached into his jacket, and produced a photo, handing it to me. I looked at it under the light of the lantern.

"Who's this?" I questioned, noticing how the woman in the photo looked somewhat like you.

"That's (Y/N)'s mother. She's a cunt, and the reason (Y/N) is the way she is. Her name is Marian Jones." Bonnie informed me, "She does more damage than good anywhere she goes, so keep her away from my little sister."

"I will," I agreed, knowing all too well what it was like to have a parent that hurt more than helped.

"I'm glad we could understand each other, Shelby." Bonnie said, grinning and clapping me on the shoulder as if he didn't just threaten to kill me, then led me back over to the fire.

•••

You and I were now in your vardo, under what seemed to be a million blankets, bar one thick, scratchy dark blue one you had hung up on the window above your bed to stop any light coming in. We had the window above the bench open, and the curtains partitioning your bed from the rest of the caravan shut, but you could still feel the fresh air.

It was a nice feeling, the cold air keeping my face cool while my body was warm under the covers. I could see why you liked sleeping with moving air instead of still.

"Your family's nice," I said as I stared at the star painted roof, trying to start a conversation.

You snorted, rolling over towards me and propping yourself using your elbow, "I could've told you that, Shelby."

I did the same, mirroring you so now we were face to face, "Yeah, but everyone says their family's nice."

"Not entirely true — anyway, I think Dad likes you, I'm pretty sure Bonnie and Esmeralda do too, and Saiorse hates you because you're, and I quote, 'stealing me away to live in your filthy house on Watery Lane'. So, all in all, you did good, Shelby." You announced, the corners of your mouth quirking up.

I huffed, thinking of Bonnie's chat.

"Bonnie has a fucking funny way of showing me he likes me," I grumbled, making you cock a brow.

I noticed a thin scar running through your brow as you gave me a look that said 'explain'.

"He threatened to kill me and send my body home in fifty different parcels, then threatened to hit me so hard he'd send my nose up into my brain if I didn't do certain things." I elaborated, making you shake your head, some of your hair coming over in front of your face.

You quickly flipped it back, tucking it behind your ears, "Bonnie's word is his law, Shelby. I suggest doing whatever he told you to do."

"Yeah well, my word's my law too, and I'll do what I said I'd do — that's a promise," I stated, looking you in your eyes.

You could only nod at the tone of my voice, one that meant business.

I yawned, and flopped down onto my back once more, closing my eyes, muttering 'goodnight'.

The last thing I heard before drifting off to sleep was you replying with, 'sleep well, Shelby'.

•••

THIRD PERSON'S POV

Finn didn't want to do it, but he did. He put my hand on your shoulder, and shook lightly.

"(Y/N). (Y/N), wake up." He whispered, making you stiffen, then sit up quickly.

"I'm awake, what's wrong?" You mumbled, eyes still closed as you leaned over Finn, grabbing a match and lighting the lantern.

It was obvious to Finn that you had done that many times, which concerned him slightly — fire and wood didn’t really mix.

Finn took a deep breath in, then let it out, "Nothing's wrong, I just need to piss, and I'm scared of going alone."

Your eyes snapped open, and you looked back at the brown haired boy in your bed.

"Finn, you better be joking, because if not, I'll smother you with the fucking pillows and throw your dead body into the cut." You cautioned, making Finn shake his head, blushing, the blush reaching the tips of his ears.

"Oh for fucks sake! Hurry up and put your boots on before I decide to stay in bed." You commanded as you crawled over the boy, out of the warm nest of blankets, quickly putting on your socks and boots, along with whatever coat was closest.

The coat smelled nice, you decided, although you couldn’t place the name of the scent, something which bothered you nearly as much as being woken up for nothing. Finn rolled out of bed and slipped his boots on, not having to bother with socks as he slept with them on. He picked up the lantern, and the pair of you left your caravan, the fire still roaring as a few of your uncles sat at it, keeping guard.

You led Finn just beyond the tree line, then stopped, "Pick a tree, any tree, I'm sure they'd be honoured to have a Shelby piss on 'em."

Finn rolled his eyes as he hooked the lantern onto a tree branch, making sure you had your back to him, then began to take care of business.

Finn fixed himself back up and grabbed the lantern off of the branch, "You know, I was thinking—"

"If you're anything like your older brother Tommy, that's a dangerous pursuit," You cut in, making Finn clench his jaw, but ignore your statement.

"—I was thinking that you could meet the girls, Polly,  Ada, and Linda, in the morning, after we settle you into home." Finn stated, turning to look at you.

His eyes widened once he realised you had on his coat.

You turned around to look at him, face blank, then nodded, making him grin boyishly, the light from the lantern glinting off of a small scar just above his lip.

"I suppose it's only fair, since you met my family. Now let's go back." You said stiffly, shoving past him and leading him back the way you came.

When you walked into your caravan, you kicked off your shoes and put the coat back down where you found it, and climbed back into your blanket cocoon.

Finn followed, blowing out the lantern and putting it on the table next to the bed, climbing up into the bed then pulling the curtains closed, slipping under the covers next to you once more.

You were already asleep by the time Finn had made himself comfortable, your hair covering your face. Finn gently ran a hand through it, pushing it back so it was out of your face, then stared up at the ceiling once more, counting the stars to help put him to sleep.

§§§

I’m so obsessed with enemies to lovers trope you don’t even understand how much fun I’m having while writing it lol

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 4

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 25

PUBLISHED: 16/06/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

READER'S POV

I walked around a furniture in London, hand in hand with Finn. We had come up for the day to buy new furniture, and then, tonight, we'd be going to the fair tonight. I felt giddy just thinking about it.

We had a shop attendant escorting us around, explaining each piece of furniture. Finn had arranged it, as well as arranging for delivery and assembly of our new furniture.

We had already gotten a full body mirror to place at the end of the hallway in our apartment, which was fun.

"What if we got Chesterfields?" Finn mused as we slowed down in front of them.

I scrunched my nose up. No wonder he wanted Lizzie to come with him to get the beds. He obviously didn't know how to decorate, or what was good or not.

"Finn, we are not getting leather sofas. If we fall asleep on there for a nap the other will have to pry us off with a spatula." I replied, making him snort.

I heard the shop attendant chuckle but cover it with a cough.

"We'll what if we got a Chesterfield knockoff that had proper upholstery then?" Finn asked, and I shook my head.

"The buttons will fall off at some point and I don't want to spend the rest of my life sticking them back on." I reasoned, making him sigh, but nod.

We walked down further, and I spotted the perfect couch.

"Finn, come sit your arse on this," I commanded, walking over to it and flopping down onto it.

I sighed and laid back on it. It was quite comfy. It'd be nice to nap on, and to top it all off, it was the same colour as the cat so the cat hair wouldn't show up much.

Finn came and sat on it, then laid back next to me, "Fucking hell. I didn't know they made couches like this. It's like sitting and laying on a cloud."

"We're getting two!" I decided as I sat up, and he gave a thumbs up, still laying down.

"It's a four seater," The attendant explained, making me nod, "And it's modular, meaning you can move the chaise and split the couch in half as you pleased. The corner on the side Mr. Shelby is laid on splits off."

(Obviously a more modern couch shhhh)

"That's the lounge settled, then." I stated, and Finn hummed in agreement as he sat back up.

"We have armchairs by the same people, same colour if you'd like to see those," The attendant added, and I looked at Finn, who raised an eyebrow.

My call. I looked back at the attendant, and nodded.

"Yes, we'd like that," I replied, and he gave a quick smile and lead us towards the armchairs, showing us the armchairs he described earlier.

"We'll take two of those," Finn told the attendant, coming up and wrapping an arm around my waist.

I leaned into his embrace without even thinking about it.

"Good choice, Mr. Shelby! You head to the register and I'll attend to you just after I speak to our delivery men," The shop attendant excused himself, then walked off.

We headed back to the front of the shop, waiting around the register.

Finn stood behind me and wrapped both of his arms around my waist, and I almost immediately leaned back into his embrace.

"You excited for tonight?" Finn questioned, and I could hear the nervous tone in his voice.

"Absolutely," I replied, a soft smile finding its way onto my face.

I felt him sigh in relief, making me grin. The attendant came back, and Finn stepped away from me, making me feel slightly disappointed at the lack of contact. I reached out and slipped my hand into his, and he quickly squeezed my hand three times. That was new.

As Finn started talking to the attendant, I raised my wrist to look at my watch and spotted a blue ribbon.

Saoirse. I had promised to get her something from Harrods, since she couldn't come with us. Finn squeezed my waist, making me look up at him.

"We're done here." He informed me, leading me out to the car.

"We've got to go to Harrods. I need to buy Saoirse a doll." I reminded Finn, and he nodded.

"I remember, she needed a new one because Karl broke hers." Finn replied as we got into the car, making me grin.

Saoirse had come visited Finn and I, sleeping over whilst Dad took Polly away from camp for the night. We had taken her, and Karl, who had come out for the weekend to visit his favourite uncle (Finn), to the park. We were stood in a bunch kicking a soccer ball to each other. Karl kicked it wrong, resulting in the ball hitting Saoirse's porcelain doll that Bonnie had bought her and knocking it off the bench we had sat our stuff on, the poor doll shattering on the concrete.

I had to sit on top of Saoirse so she didn't strangle Karl. It wasn't one of her finest moments.

"Oh! Finn, can we buy clothes here too? I want to match when we go out tonight." I said, removing the blue ribbon from my wrist as he drove.

"Isn't that tacky?" Finn replied, making me gasp.

"No!" I snapped, then calmed myself, "If we did his and hers versions it could be cute."

Finn hummed in agreement, and I started fiddling with the hem of my skirt as we drove along, looking out of the window at the scenery.

•••

I stood in front of the full body mirror, checking my outfit as Finn got ready in the bathroom. We had decided to wear blue jeans, and white T-shirts, along with a pair of black tennis shoes. We would also have to take coats, as it would get colder as the night went on. I had my favourite yellow sweater wrapped around my waist.

I had braided the top half of my hair into twin braids, pulling them back into a bun, and left the bottom half out. I looked at how my new earrings shone under the light. Finn had bought them at Harrods for our first date.

We'd be leaving for it as soon as he was ready. Arthur had agreed to drop us off, and pick us up if needed, so we didn't need to drive around.

I didn't want to wear a dress or skirt, because we'd be out and about and I didn't want any outfit malfunctions in case a good breeze came by.

I was glad I didn't, though, because this outfit showed off my curves very well.

In the reflection of the mirror, I saw the bathroom door open, "I'm ready!"

I turned around and watched as Finn came out of the bathroom, white T-Shirt clinging to his muscles, and his curly hair free instead of gelled back, one hand up on his shoulder, fingers hooked under the collar of his black jacket which hung freely on his back. I noticed his half heart necklace over his shirt instead of under it. He looked good. I whistled, making him chuckle and look away, rubbing the back of his neck.

I could see the blush climb up his neck, making me smirk, "Don't you look pretty, lover boy?"

"I suppose so," He replied, and looked back in my direction.

His eyes widened, and he looked me up and down.

"You look good," Finn commented as he pulled his jacket on, leaving it unzipped, "Proper good. Might have to ask some Peaky boys to tail us around to make sure all of the other boys at the fair keep their eyes to themselves."

I giggled as I walked up to him, wrapping my arms around his neck. He wrapped his around my waist, and leaned down, placing a kiss on my forehead. My heartbeat sped up at the small gesture.

"Let's go," He said as he pulled away, and laced his fingers through mine.

I gave his hand a squeeze, and he gave mine three quick squeezes.

"What does that mean?" I asked as we exited the apartment, Finn locking the door behind us, "The three squeezes?"

"'S a secret," Finn said with a grin, making me huff, half-joking as we walked along the balcony.

I started swinging our hands, and felt a bit sick in anticipation. Not the bad sick. The good kind of sick. The excitement that made itself a funny feeling running through your veins. Nearly electric. I spotted Arthur leaning against his car, removing a cigarette from his mouth and stomping it out.

"Artie!" I called out, making him look over at Finn and I, and smirk.

"Don't you two look like a cute couple?" He teased, opening the door for us.

"That's because we are," Finn interjected, making me blush.

Arthur laughed as I climbed into the backseat, followed by Finn.

"You got any snow?" Arthur asked Finn as he started the car.

Finn shook his head, "Tonight I'll be feeling good enough without it, I reckon."

Arthur chuckled, "Alright, Finny boy, fair enough."

We drove through Small Heath, and I could spot the lights from the fairground before we actually arrived there. I started bouncing in my seat, making Finn chuckle.

Bonnie and Dad would be working a stall here, somewhere.

Arthur slowed the car to a stop, and we got out.

"Call me when you're ready to come home, or let me know if you're walking," Arthur commanded, and we nodded.

"Don't have too much fun," Arthur said with a wink, making Finn roll his eyes and shut the car door.

"What do you want to do first?" Finn asked as I grabbed his hand and led him into the fairground.

"Save the Ferris wheel until last — Actually no, we should go soon, then at sunset, then one last ride before we leave here — Can we go look at the stalls? And the bumper cars?" I begged, looking back at him.

He slowed down and plucked a pamphlet from a stand. I came over and looked at it with him. There was information about the fair on one side, and a map on the other. Handy.

"Oh! Big top, Finn, let's go there!" I exclaimed as I spotted it on the map.

"I want to go too but I reckon it'll be sold out," Finn grumbled, which made me frown as I looked at the map again.

Hold on.

I pointed at the red and white tent on the map, labelled 'Circus Extraordinaire', "Finn, that's the Palmer's circus crew. I'd be able to get us in for free because we're family."

Finn perked up, "Really?"

"Really," I confirmed, and looked up, "We should go on the Ferris wheel now, then go to the big top."

"Yeah. Says here the next show starts in an hour. We'd have enough time to go on the Ferris wheel before then." He agreed, folding up the map and putting it into his back pocket.

I could see the Ferris Wheel from where we stood. I hooked a finger through one of the belt loops in Finn's jeans, and dragged him along, making him laugh at my enthusiasm.

We weaved our way through the crowd until we ended up in the line for the Ferris wheel. I bounced on my heels, feeling excited.

"Oi!" I heard behind us, making me turn around and look.

Ezzie and Isiah were there, Ezzie holding a big brown teddy bear.

"Do you follow me everywhere? That's a bit odd," Finn joked as Isiah led Ezzie over to us, making Isiah chuckle.

"You two on a date then?" Isiah asked, eyeing us in curiosity.

"Yeah — First one." Finn replied, wrapping an arm around my waist.

"Good luck," Isiah said, and Ezzie narrowed her eyes at Finn.

"You hurt my little sister and I'll chop yours and Isiah's pricks off." She warned, making Isiah look at her in surprise.

"Now, we're going to have one last go of this, then go home," Ezzie informed me as they lined up behind us, making me nod.

The night's not even begun and they're going home. I pouted, feeling slightly disappointed, but also slightly thrilled.

It would be nice to have Ezzie there for a bit, but I was glad that Finn and I got to be alone. I wanted Finn and I to be alone, in each other's presence, without any distractions.

§§§

I’ve been updating on Wattpad but forgetting to update here oof

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

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