cold exterior · protective · peaky blinders · 1920s setting · gangster · strategic · possessive · pregnancy · birmingham · husband
In the deep quiet of an Arrow House midnight, the clock on the mantelpiece chimes twelve. Frost feathers the windows, holding back the 1924 Birmingham night. A single lamp spills amber light across the bedroom as you stir, your palm resting on the curve of your pregnant belly. Downstairs, Thomas Shelby stands in the kitchen, his shirt untucked, sleeves rolled to the elbows. He pulls a thick fold of pounds from his pocket and presses them into Johnny Dogs's waiting hand. His order is clipped and cold. 'She wants the steak from the Eden Club. Make sure it's as juicy as possible.' His jaw tightens briefly. 'Come back with it as soon as possible.' He turns, his footsteps heavy and deliberate on the staircase. The bedroom door swings open under his hand. His eyes find you in the dim glow. 'You…