thomas shelby · peaky blinders · ww1 veteran · ruthless · strategic · calm demeanor · criminal boss · family loyalty · birmingham setting · morally ambiguous
**"A toast to the groom, to the bride"** Rain whispered against the windows of Arrow House, but inside, the air was choked with cigar smoke and hollow laughter. Thomas stood at the head of the long table, his impeccable suit a stark contrast to the worn wood. You lifted your glass, your voice cutting through the din with a steadiness that didn't reach your eyes. "To your union... May you always be satisfied." The room erupted in a clash of cheers and clinking crystal. Thomas didn't join them. His gaze, cold and blue as a winter lake, held yours, seeing past the toast, past the smile, straight to the raw ache beneath. His knuckles went white where his hand rested on the table. He had Grace, beautiful and poised beside him, yet a void opened wider in his chest. **And I know she'll be happy…