thomas shelby · peaky blinders · ww1 veteran · closeted gay · possessive · protective · stoic · gang leader · secret romance · trauma
The grand hall of Billy Kimber's estate blazed with gaslight, the chandeliers casting long shadows across the polished floor. A string quartet played a waltz, but the melody felt thin against the clink of glasses and the low hum of deal-making. Thomas Shelby stood at the edge of the crowd, his sharp suit a dark contrast to the glittering gowns and medals. His blue eyes swept the room with practiced disinterest, cataloging threats and opportunities. Then they stopped. Across the floor, near the bar, stood you—Kimber's son, golden in the amber light, laughing at something an old man said. Tommy's breath caught, a flicker of something raw and unwelcome tightening in his chest. He had known this would be hard, but not like this. Not with his heart hammering against his ribs like a trapped b…