Hidden Treasure (Part 12)

Hidden Treasure (Part 12)

Arranged Marriage AU: Dark!Tommy Shelby x Wife!Reader

Warning(s): +18, Non con, Non con aftermath.

Author's note(s): This is the final chapter. It felt right to end it here.

Tommy would have to face you again. Looking back at the way he tried to control now regretting it. If he could go back in time to change it he would. His first mistake was the very night he first took you. How scared you must’ve been, of him. 

Tommy remembers returning to the room after walking out. He carefully lifted you up from the now ruined bed sheets., all the way to the washroom. A bath had already been prepared by him. Tommy gently places you into the tub. His trousers are soaked yet he doesn’t acknowledge it.

As soon as your lower half is dipped into the warm bath, you cry out from the ripples of pain traveling to your core. Your body coils in agony, almost slipping out of his arms. His sturdy biceps wrap around your upper half. He doesn’t let go until you’ve found a comfortable sitting position. He turns around briefly to grab a washcloth placed on the corner of the sink.

He rubs it against a bar of soap until it’s foamy then crouches down to your level. Your body cowers away from his reach. He stills, “Stop,” he whispers. You look down, mentally trying your hardest to think of being anywhere else but here. When his hand reaches between your legs to clean there’s a streak of red that swirls from your womanhood. It sways in the water before dispersing. You’ve never felt so weak. So broken. You give up, shriveling into a sobbing mess.

Your vision is cloudy enough to not notice Tommy reaching in to rub small circles against your back. Suds rinsing off the long day spent putting on a happy face. Tommy scratches his fingers against your scalp. He made sure to cover every corner. He lifts a small bucket to pour over your head. Then drains the tub after finishing. He grabs a nearby towel. His hands, the same ones that have been through war, were used to pat you dry before wrapping a robe around you. It was a wedding gift from a guest.

Tommy held your hand as you stepped out of the tub. His bends down and wraps an arm just below your rear before hoisting you up bridal style Your chest collides with his. Your arms reach up involuntarily to wrap around his neck that had already been wet from sweating. He gently places you on the bed. Carefully laying your head against the pillows. He retrieves a shirt from his dresser. You dare not to look up when you see his legs in front of you. He holds the clothing in front of him, “Change into this,” before handing it over.

You take it with trembling hands. You slide the robe off your shoulders whilst trying to hide your naked body. Modesty played a key role in how you were raised. An arm slides up but misses the sleeve. You try again only for it to poke out of the neck. With Tommy standing right in front of you it only made your nerves worsen.

He reaches in and you back away. He pulls the shirt off and matches each designated sleeve with its coordinated arm, “Hands up," he holds it right above your head. Your arms move from your chest, aiming them at the ceiling. His gaze fell down to your breasts, counting the fresh bruises forming. Ushering you to push your head out the neckline. He looks away before you notice.

You felt drowsy and numb. Your body leans against the welcoming bed. For a brief moment, you take notice to Tommy’s shirt thrown on the floor. A reminder of what had happened. He pulls a drag from his coat pocket, quickly lighting up a cigarette to rid him of his nerves. He pauses for a brief moment to rub his temple. For once, in a very long time, he doesn’t know what to do, “Fuck…” he really did that. Fucking things up as usual.

He made sure to turn off the light before leaving the bedroom. He couldn’t bear to look at the state you were in, and he knew damn well you didn’t want to see him either. Tommy kept himself hidden in the guest room while you healed. He crashes almost every piece of furniture, bashing his fists against them until his knuckles bled. That night he'd drank himself to sleep.

It had been years since Tommy had prayed in a church, or in general. He didn’t see the point because of it due to what he did for a living. There was a time not too long ago when he would visit with Grace and Charlie for Sunday mass. He never once went with you. Maybe that was a forewarning. This was a punishment sent to him.

All he needed was final chance of redemption. Just one would be more than enough. He’d make it up to you, in any way he could, for the rest of his life. Tommy prayed for your happiness, to live a long and healthy life, for you and for the child growing inside of you. He prayed that you'd always feel safe. And if he were lucky that you would love him unconditionally. Nothing less. Deep down he knows he doesn't deserve it. Even in times like this he was selfish enough to want you for himself. He gathered his thoughts along his prayers, ending it with an “Amen,"

5 ½ Years later You woke up in an empty bed. Surrounded by an array of assorted pillows. You kick your legs off the bed to find your slippers placed on the ground. You lift yourself off the bed with caution. With a steady hand placed on your belly. You rub it with affection, knowing that another little one was growing inside.

As soon as you drew the curtains open you were in awe. It began snowing, it was already winter. Six years felt like ages ago. You held a palm to your bump, “I’ll see you in the spring little one,” you cooed. As you waddled down the hallway you could hear the faint sounds of laughter. You peek into Charlie’s room to find Tommy playing with the children. Charlie and his brother Thomas, trying their best to entertain the twins. Adan and Ada would burst with giggles from their brothers’ silly shenanigans. Tommy held little Finn up in the air until he spotted you in the corner of his eye, "Mommy! Mommy!" the children gathered around you.

Tommy sits his son on his torso and stretches an arm out. Flicking his wrist up for you to come over. Soon you found yourself laying on the bed with your husband by your side. Your head resting against his chest. He places a chaste kiss on your temple. Your heart flutters from the affection, “Tommy,”

“Yes dear?“

You look up at him with hooded lids, “I love you,” a faint whisper escapes your lips, gazing into his eyes you notice that there was no longer the cold look you once knew. There’s warmth to it. To him. You lean in for a kiss. He returns the favor, wrapping his arms around you ever-so-carefully. Tommy sighs into the embrace, you’re the first to part away. Resting your forehead against his. Tommy’s expression is soft, vulnerable, "I love you…so so, much..." from the moon to the stars, and sky above. There was no limit to what he would do for you.

Years ago, Thomas Michael Shelby wanted to sabotage his arranged marriage at all costs. He never realized the day he lifted your wedding veil was the day he discovered a woman he would treasure for the rest of his life. A kind, gentle, yet strong wife who had given him a loving family. You smirked against his chest. He could feel the smile forming against his skin. His prayers had finally been answered.

Fin.

Hidden Treasure (Part 2)

Arranged Marriage AU: Dark!Tommy Shelby x Wife!Reader

Warning(s): None.

Author's note(s): Polly finds the perfect woman for her nephew.

Today was a profitable day. You managed to sell some pastries made from scratch and made a good earning. You’re thankful for whatever money you could get out of the leftovers. There were enough to purchase some ripe berries for a tart. A happy sigh escapes your lips, it was a productive day indeed.

Life was hard, but at least you and your family had each other. You’re grateful for every moment of it. But for some reason, there was this gut feeling that told you it wouldn’t last very long. As if you'd sensed there was something that was about to happen. Something that would change your life forever.

Later that day

A bell chimes from your family's bakery door. Two men walk in, dressed from head-to-toe in tailored suits. One sporting a mustache, the other with a toothpick poking from the corner of his smirk. They part from each other to reveal a shorter woman in fancier clothing.

Your father looks up from the floor, he stops sweeping, “Good morning madame,” he nods. Her ruby lips curl into a smirk. She tilts her sunglasses down the bride of her nose and glances around, “A very good morning to you as well.” There’s a sudden pause. It’s silent for a brief moment. Your father is first to break the ice, “Is there anything I can get you with?”

“Oh no, I’ve come here solely on business, you see, I would like to purchase your bakery.” she bats her eyes. Her aura reeked of wealth, of power. Your father hums, “Sorry, no can-do ma’am, this here is all I have to my name, and I have a family to care for, I hope you can understand,”

“You don’t have to worry about that any longer, I can assure you that this deal will benefit all of us,” she grins from ear to ear. Your old man raises a brow. He leans the broom against a wall, limping his way to a seat placed at the counter, “What do you have to offer?”

It only took a few minutes to discuss scheduling an official meeting. Polly leaves the bakery now filled with glee. She’s in quite the pleasant mood. Arthur and John exchange glances with each other, questioning whether or not it had been a wise decision. But then again, they weren’t the ones who called the shots.

Soon enough, Polly arrived at Tommy’s office in a cheerful mood, slamming the office door open. Her nephew looks up from his desk then to his watch. It was almost dinner time. Which means she should’ve been with his son by now. Tommy stills his pen, “Who’s watching Charlie?”

“He’s with his uncles, as should you be, there’s an important family meeting to attend to dear nephew,” a hint of glee in her voice didn’t sit well with him, “When?” he huffs out.

Polly quips, “Now.” that was an order. Tommy is hesitant to get up but pushes through. He stores his reading glasses into a case before locking them in a cabinet. His aunt holds out an arm for him to take. He wonders what exactly his clever auntie had in store for them this time. When the two arrive at the Garrison they’re met with the rest of the Shelby family. With John and Arthur looking especially nervous for him. Ada on the other hand is absolutely giddy, not sure if she’ll be able to hold it in before Polly spills the news.

They all wait for the Shelby matriarch to begin. As Polly stands up, tall and proud to announce the important news, “A celebration is in order," she grips her nephew's shoulder, "Congratulations Tommy…you’re getting married,” she clasps her hands together, intertwining her fingers. Tommy doesn’t say a word, his eyes widen for a split second. His expression quickly turns into a scowl, “Poll…” Tommy is at a loss for what to say next. Just when his day couldn’t get worse, “No.”

“Oh, hush now, you didn’t see John complain when we had to set him up,”

“You weren’t there to tame him,” he retorts. Arthur on the other hand, agrees with his aunt, “She’s got a point...”. Tommy looks up to his older brother with a look of bewilderment as Arthur quickly ducks his gaze.

Polly made sure to have Tommy visit the family in person. His own brothers, his own men followed her orders not to leave him out of their sights. After a few days of constant harassment and threats, he had finally caves in. And so, it landed the Shelby members on the other side of town. Where they stood right in front of an old-fashioned building. This was the address of Tommy's soon-to-be wife.

Polly swiftly turns to her nephew, “Listen to me well boy: Under no circumstances will you to try to scare them off, got it?” she points a gloved finger in his face, scolding him as if he were still a child. He glares at her before giving a slight nod. Polly retrieves a bouquet of roses from the car. They were the same ones you' had been eyeing at the marketplace. She remembers how you would stop by the florist just to smell them. She hands them to her nephew, “I expect you to give this to her,” before proceeding towards the house.

Polly knocks on the front door. A woman opens it. Her eyes are soft and welcoming, a bit worn out by time. She smiles softly at the two, “Polly, it’s good to see you!” she shakes her hand, planting a kiss on each cheek. Polly embraces her in a tight hug, “It’s good seeing you as well my dear,” She firmly grasps her nephew's arm, pulling him into their conversation, “This is my nephew I've told you about, Tommy Shelby,”

“Good evening, Ma'am,” He curtly greets the other woman. Polly’s friend raises a brow, “My, what a handsome lad!” she giggles, “Please, come in, come in!” she waves her hand for them to follow. The girl’s mother had informed them, that their daughter couldn't be here today. You were left to care for the bakery all by yourself. Tommy didn’t like that, not one bit. No future wife of his should be slaving herself away. If he can’t choose his future wife, fine. But once married the only role you would be taking is a dutiful wife.

They make their way into the living room, passing by a framed photo of the family. A young husband stood behind his wife’s seat as he held his eldest daughter. Their youngest sat shyly in her mother’s lap. More and more photos of them were scattered across the wall. Each picture told a story. It had shown throughout the years that their daughters have blossomed into beautiful women.

Their latest family photo had been small wedding. Their eldest daughter had grown into a blushing bride. Her mother held her father’s shoulder, as he tried his best not to tear up. Tommy recognizes his face immediately. After all, it was his fault the man had ended up in such a condition. He felt as though he owed him a favor. He's now face-to-face with the man. Polly is the one to introduce him, “This is my nephew-”

“Thomas Shelby.” the old baker spoke up, “It’s good to see you, old friend,”

Polly’s attention is now set on her dear nephew, “You know each other?” sounding genuinely concerned that her nephew may have sabotaged the unification, before even having a chance to finalize it. But that wasn’t the case at all. In fact, this was the man who had saved Tommy’s life.

During the war, the older man had been responsible for rescuing countless young men. From either being buried alive or blown to bits. But in the end, it did cost him. He could say proudly that the loss of his leg, was a fair exchange for the countless lives of his fellow companions. Tommy had no choice but to accept the proposal, the girl’s dowry had already been paid in full. After their meeting, the two families exchanged their goodbyes, gIving a few hugs and kisses before parting. Polly turns around to give one final wave, “Welcome to the family.” before entering the vehicle.

Little did they know, you were already on your way home. Unaware of what the future had in store. Your fate was sealed, as was his.

Hidden Treasure (Part 11)

Arranged Marriage AU: Dark!Tommy Shelby x Wife!Reader

Warning(s): Kidnapping, Physical harm, Physical assault.

Author's note(s): We see it all unwrapping!

Tension rises within the Shelby family, and your husband is to blame for it all.

Tommy drags you into the living room. Where the rest of his brothers await. Finn is seated. Your eyes widen from the sight of his bruised and battered form. A cut lip, complimented with a black eye and small bruises that littered his body. There was a firm handprint right against his throat. As if someone had him pinned down. You were all too familiar with the feeling. There was no doubt that this was Tommy's doing. You could practically hear your blood boiling. Your maternal instincts kicking in as you saw red.

You twist out of your husband’s grip and rush towards the young boy, “Finn! What have they done to you?!” Your hands cup his face, causing him to wince in pain. He tries not to squirm in discomfort, “S’alright m’fine…I’m sorry I couldn’t help you...” he looks away in shame, defeat. Your heart breaks for him. Your hand combs through his hair cooing him, “No, you didn’t, it was bound to happen,” you turn around and make your way towards Tommy. You were tired of hiding, Tired of being silenced, Tired of smiling through the hell that he had put you through. You choose not to be afraid of him anymore. Enough was enough. No more. Because now? You were fucking fuming, “You…”

“Hello dear.” He replies nonchalantly. Keeping a straight posture.

“You bastard!” you shrieked.

“Nice to see you too—“Tommy’s head swings to the side from the slap he’d received. You grab him by the back of his neck, Like the many times he’d done to you and growl, “You could’ve done something to me for running off, but instead you had to take it out on Finn! Like a fucking coward!!” you bark at him. He turns his head around. Your backhand was much stronger than he'd expected. A faint trickle of blood drips from his nose. He swipes it with a finger to examine, “Not too bad...could be better…” judging your strike.

You hissed in his face, “Then fight back!" you slap his chest, "Fight back like you always do!” your voice begins to break, “Or is it because you don’t want your family to know? How much of a monster you were to me?!”

He pulls your wrists together. It was futile to retrieve them back. Tommy held you close, “I’m not going to fight you.” his voice is softer.

“Why not?!” you spat.

“Because you wouldn’t last, not in your condition,” as soon as he glances down your blood ran cold. Tommy had finally found your little secret. His eyes are glue to your belly, “For how long?” he reaches to caress the faint bump. You look down at his hand now resting against it and bit your bottom lip, “Since the last time we went to the Garrison,”

More specifically the same night he had dragged you out of the bar in front of everyone. Soon after firing his gun. Watching the people scatter through the streets, like sewage rats…it made your stomach twist.

Tommy’s voice breaks the flashback, “Why didn’t you tell me?” his voice is soft. His eyes show a genuine concern for your well being. You tell him your complete and honest truth,

“I was scared you didn’t want it, because it was obvious you didn’t want me, and you’re only now treating me different because I’m carrying your child...how…” tears began to welt, streaming down your cheeks, “…How could you be so cruel to me?” you sob. Tommy pulls you into his chest. You bury your face into his coat.

He felt a guilt like no other. He knew he had only himself to blame for everything that had happened, “I have not been a proper husband, and I understand why you would want to leave, being the circumstances that I put you through…and I’m sorry...“ his hands cup your face. His thumbs glide against your wet cheeks. Your face scrunches as you slap his hands away, “Then why’d you hurt Finn?! He was only trying to help me!”

Finn scratches the back of his head, “Well…actually I sort of…started it, as soon as they asked me, I started raining hell on 'em,” it was during the morning after. Tommy had plans to spend all day with you and Charlie. How long had it been since he’d slept that well? Too long for him not to remember. But to his surprise, he’d awoken to his wife missing. Part of him hoped that you were probably downstairs in the kitchen preparing for breakfast as you usually would.

No matter how often the maids would offer to help you refused. This was the one thing you had to yourself. He didn’t mind. It was adorable seeing you so focused on perfecting a meal instead of a tart. When Tommy arrived at the kitchen, he expected you to be seated already with breakfast done. However, you were nowhere to be found. All of the maids were gone as well.

At that instance Tommy knew there was something wrong, very wrong. He searches every room calling, yelling for your name. By now you were probably long gone. He picks up bits of his scattered clothes. Time was scarce. Every minute mattered. Tommy rounds up his best men, not to search but to interrogate. There was no way an enemy could’ve gotten this close to his house. Not without him knowing. Someone had betrayed him, he’s sure of it.

He finds out who when his brothers arrive. One of them is suspiciously late, Finn. When the younger Shelby arrived at the house he isn’t as alert as he usually is. In fact, he’s quite relaxed. Tommy knew it had all been an act. He stands right in front of him. He reads the younger boy like a book. What gave it away were his shoes. Finn had gotten new shoes a few days ago. In what situation would a young lad refuse to wear them? If they’ve been ruined. Finn must have been out last night during the storm.

Tommy’s hands ball into fists, he snarls in his face, “I’m only going to tell you this once Finn: Where. Is. She?” a storm was brewing inside Tommy. Finn remembers your promise. He remembers the way your lip quivered with fear of failing. He flashes his older brother a grin before tackling him to the ground.

But Tommy’s strength eventually surpasses his, the elder Shelby flips him over, holding Finn by the throat. Finn’s fingers dig deep into his arm but nothing would avail. John and Arthur have to pry them from each other. But like any other Shelby, Finn doesn’t go down without a fight. He gave it his all but against three soldiers. Only for it to end as a lost cause.

You smack his arm then pinch his ear, “That’s for making me worry!” then embrace him in a hug. For a brief moment he’s confused if you’re still angry at him or not but then relaxes in your arms. He chuckles, “The only reason why they’re allowing me to be here was because I told him that if he didn’t let me see you, I’d rat him out to Polly,”

You raise a brow, “And he believed you?”

“No, so I told him I already did,” He grins. You don’t know what fate has in store for Tommy. All you could do is pray for her to listen to your side of the story. It’s about time Thomas Michael Shelby dealt with the wrath of Ms. Elizabeth Gray. He knew at some point he’d have to tell her about their…marital problems. Him and his brothers had kept it a secret for far too long. Now everything had spiraled out of control.

He arrives to the church, the same one he had been married in, twice. Where he’ll have to face the Shelby Matriarch. Tommy sits himself in the booth right behind her. He sighs, “She wanted to leave me Polly,” his shoulders sink, “I’ve changed, more than what I was willing to at first, there’s no reason why she would want to leave now,” His fingers twitch in his lap, "I don't want to lose her,"

Polly turns around. Her temper had gotten the best of her. Slap after slap lands on her nephew. Her voice booms, “Have you gone mad?! Why does she want to leave?!” Echoing off the church’s walls. Polly throws in a few good smacks at him. Someone has to. “You’re a grown man Thomas, for fucks sake act like one! Stop relying on this poor girl to fix you–fix yourself for her! If you think you can just take and take from a good woman and expect her to be fine with it?! You’re a damn fool!” Polly almost falls out of her seat. She catches her breath.

She held her nephew by the shoulders for balance, “If any harm ever comes to that girl ever again, I will make sure to hunt. You. Down,” She huffs. Her expression changes to confusion when Tommy looks up, his eyes now glossed over, “How can I fix this?”

“You’re asking the wrong person,” Polly scolds before walking to the front to give a small prayer. As soon as she crosses herself, she promptly leaves, ignoring Tommy who now sulked all alone. After the war, he had almost lost all faith. After Grace had died, so had a part of him that believed there was something better. Then you came along. You, who had tried so hard to fix a broken man like him. What did he do to deserve a treasure like you?

For the first time in years Tommy decides to pray. He prays for only one thing: Your happiness. Whether it included him or not didn't matter.

Hidden Treasure (Part 8)

Arranged Marriage AU: Dark!Tommy Shelby x Wife!Reader

Warning(s): Angst, Fluff, Mentions of past domestic violence.

Author's note(s): Innocent heartfelt chapter (cue the fluff).

Your husband would have Finn either send messages to you, or simply keep an eye on your wellbeing. Although Finn hadn’t a clue of what was going on, he knew you of all people didn’t deserve this sort of treatment. He made sure to visit as often as he could for company.

You were grateful the moment Tommy finally let you out that dreadful basement. You hadn’t forgotten the promise made a few weeks ago to Finn. To bake him a signature custard from your bakery. He’d been dying to try. Soon, it became common for the youngest Shelby brother to stop by. He would either have a letter or message from Tommy. Most of them were if your husband would be late or earlier from work.

You’d pack Finn some lunch before bidding him a farewell. Most of the time it was just you and Charlie in one big, empty house. To say that he was a sweet child was an understatement. He had the power to make anyone’s cold heart melt. How could such a charming child come from a man like Tommy? You hadn’t a clue.

Of course, you could never replace Grace. You weren’t the one who’d given birth to him. But Charlie was your son in every single way that mattered. There were even a few special moments you’d spend with the other Shelby family members. You especially enjoyed bonding with the women of the family. Teatime with Polly was a particular favorite. She would give you as much advice as a wise woman could. In a way, Polly became your second mother.

As you were setting up the table Polly had been bouncing Charlie on her lap. Finn decided to stop by since today’s work was slower than usual, he choose to stay a little longer. Polly examines her finished tea. Her expression was confused at first, then startled. She shows Finn the cup, and it was as if he'd read something from it.

Polly let’s out a small sigh, “Tell me my dear…” she places her cup on the table, “…has my nephew been treating you well?”

You’re at a loss for words. How could you answer to her? Should you tell her the truth? How would she react? You made up your mind to keep it short and subtle, “Tommy provides me with everything a wife may need. What more could a woman want?” you try your best to force a smile, hoping that it was a good enough answer.

But Polly was suspicious that something wrong within your marriage. She could sense it, “You didn’t answer my question dear, has he been treating you well?” her voice is sterner this time. You tense. Your heart races, “I-I’m not sure what you mean...” you play off. Polly could tell that over the period of time since you've been married, the flicker of light in your eyes had disappeared. Blown out by the cold blues that followed into your nightmares.

At that point, Finn has had it. As soon as Polly leaves, he tells you of his plan, “Tommy’s going to some event next week, and he won’t be back until the morning,”

“Finn…” you warn. It wouldn’t be a good idea breaking your husband's trust. A man like Tommy never forgets. Finn grumbles, “I’m sick and tired of seeing him treat you like--like the dirt on his shoes! The bloke!” his hands ball into fists. You don’t think twice about his statement, in fact you understood completely why your new brother had the right to react like this. You sigh, reaching for his hands to hold, “Could you do me a favor?”

You were kept busy for the next few days, planning on yet another escape. Hopefully the last. Finn would send letters to your sister who lived in the next town. It had been quite a while since the two of you would communicate. Her and her husband had been busy since delivering their new baby.

So, it would take time to pack up their belongings before moving in with your parents. Finn would stop by the postal, on the way to wherever he was heading in order to avoid suspicion. For once it felt like everything was going your way.

As each day went by, you grew more excited to leave this place, once and for all. You let out your hair, made yourself more presentable, you even started smiling again. Tommy took note of how the corners of your lips would curl upwards on their own as you hummed a tune while making supper.

He’d been silently observing you adjusting to your new life. After putting away the dishes, you hoist Charlie on a hip before leaving the kitchen. Tommy listens carefully to your footsteps leading up the stairs before following them. He stops in front of his bedroom door, reaching for the knob.

But before he’s had a chance to twist it open a faint sound of laughter erupts. He opens the door to spot you and Charlie on the bed. Your hands reaching to tickle the boy’s sides. Seemingly unknowing that your husband is witnessing the display of affection.

You hoist the toddler into the air. Tommy notices your expression. For the first time in months, you're actually smiling. It was like some sort of trance. He leans against the door frame. Seeing you with his boy felt, in a strange way, right. As if you both were meant to be. His son loves you. You drop Charlie onto your bosom to catch your breath.

Soft giggles manage to slip out of every exhale. Charlie’s hair tickles your chin so you tilt it to the side. That’s when you notice Tommy standing at the doorway. His posture is more relaxed than usual. For how long had he been standing there?

You look away from his gaze. It always did make you nervous. His fingers twitch, curling into his palms, “I uh...” he slides them into his pockets, “I want you to be my guest for an event,” Tommy looks up, waiting for an answer. You raise a brow and sit up, still holding the boy in your arms, “Who’ll watch over Charlie?”

“Finn offered to keep an eye on him.” of course.

“Alright,” you agreed, already knowing how it would play out. Tommy nods, “I’ll be back, ‘bout three hours from now.” he checks his pocket watch. Double taking the time. You hadn’t planned for him to take you anywhere. It’ll only delay your plans. But you couldn’t risk him questioning his decision, “Sure thing.” you return. Tommy looks as though he had one last thing to say, “And uh...wear something nice,” He turns away, leaving as soon as he came. Now that was odd.

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Hidden Treasure (Part 3)

Arranged Marriage AU: Dark!Tommy Shelby x Wife!Reader

Warning(s): Threats, Physical Harm, Domestic Violence.

Author's note(s): The day of the wedding.

As soon as you arrived home, your parents inform you of their encounter with the Shelby family. You were to be married off to a man by the name of Thomas Michael Shelby. A well-respected war veteran, who puts his family first. From the sound of it, he seemed to be the man of your dreams. Little did you know, within a month from now, this man would be your worst nightmare.

He had been described to you as a family man, who looked out for his loved ones. That's what first caught your attention. Any other information had been a blur, filtered out by rose-tinted lenses. Until you realized the wedding would be in a few days. Your anxiety took the best of you. As you began to spend most nights worrying about the worst possible outcomes for the wedding. You prayed that everything would go well. There was a faint bit of confidence that your parents made the right decision. They only wanted what was best for your future.

It had been days since Tommy had uttered a single word to his aunt. To his entire family. At first, he didn’t show his anger. But with each day leading to the wedding, it had felt like a dagger had been pierced though his very soul. Almost as if he were betraying the memory of his beloved Grace. He hadn’t tried to keep in contact with any of the other family members either. Even Polly had been taken aback by her nephew’s strange shift in nature. He’d never been this stubborn. Not even when he’d been a child.

Only when his aunt threatened to cut him out of the family business did he change his attitude. His brothers noticed the changes as well. Tommy was always on edge. Now more than ever. Arthur and John suggested to go all out before he became a married man once again. It had been the three Shelby brothers against the world. Drinking, partying, and gambling 'til their heart’s content. On the morning of the wedding, Tommy woke up still half drunken from the day before. He knew his brothers and men were waiting for him outside. Of course, under Polly’s strict orders. Just in case her nephew decides to have cold feet.

He readies himself for the big day. He works diligently on preparing himself. Not because he cares, but because it helps to distract him from the ongoing train of thoughts. He almost nicks himself during mid-shave, mumbling a curse under his breath. Never in his life would it take him this long to get ready. Part of him wishes he could stop everything and go back to bed. As if this day never existed. He snorts a line, rubbing the tip of his nose clean to get rid of the evidence.

Tommy’s men lean against their cars. A few check the time just to make sure they weren’t late. Arthur is first to notice how suspiciously long his brother has been. John walks to the front door. Before he could manage to knock, Arthur stops him from going any further. Suddenly the door flies open. It’s Tommy. He finally steps out, taking a huff from his cigarette, “Well boys, this is it.”

Together the Shelby men make their way to the church. Tommy doesn’t speak a word during the entire ceremony. Not once had he faltered from his stone-cold gaze.

That is until he lifts up his soon-to-be wife’s veil. A bashful beauty, dressed from head-to-toe in a silk white gown. She’s the human embodiment of an angel, on her way to meet the devil himself. Tommy smirks to himself. He might as well have a little fun with the future Mrs. Shelby.

It’s the first time you’ve met your husband. As soon as you felt him lift up your veil, you began to panic internally. To your surprise, you couldn’t believe how handsome he was! You blush when his eyes meet yours. There’s a slight twitch of nervousness from your cherry-stained lips. He smirks at your reaction. What a gullible little girl your were. When he takes your hands in his, you could practically feel your heart throbbing. You only hope he would be as kind as what you were told.

There was a sudden pause at the end of the ceremony. Tommy held your hands in his and placed a chaste kiss on your lips, they felt warm and inviting. You didn’t even realize how your head leaning towards his until he pulls back. You duck your head with embarrassment. It's your first kiss, and you’ve already made a fool of yourself.

After sharing vows and greeting each guest, you bid your family goodbye. Your little niece and nephew are the last ones to receive your affection before being led off by your now husband. You're sat in the backseat of his car. Sitting shoulder-to-shoulder. This was a strange feeling. But it wasn't like you had a choice. Your parents weren’t getting any younger, as were you. It was about time you settled as well. It felt strange though. Knowing that this would be a lifetime of commitment, until death.

I guess this is it...I’m a married woman now.

It didn't feel real, sitting beside your now husband, Mr. Tommy Shelby. How handsome he was indeed. A sight for sore eyes. You felt giddy seated in the back of the car. You had never been left in the same room as a man before. Maybe after some time you’d grow familiar to his intimidating presence.

Tommy speaks up, “Get out,”

“I-I’m sorry?” your brows furrow in confusion. He tilts his head towards the direction of his estate.

Oh, right, how silly of you.

From now on this would be your new home. As soon as you step foot inside it felt a bit off. His home was very spacious, but also somewhat lonely. Almost...sad. You spoke up, “How long have you lived here?” trying to start a conversation.

“Long enough,” Tommy walks up the stairs. You remove your shoes before following him up the flight. You were ready to open the luggage that had been left waiting in his—your room. But to your surprise the baggage had already been unpacked by the help. You look around, studying just who Tommy Shelby was. His bedroom is simple. His lifestyle is…complicated. That you would be discussing later.

When your eyes meet the king-sized bed, your body physically tenses. Just the thought of being with a stranger–bedding a stranger, didn’t sit well with your conscious. Even if there was a wedding ring. Deep down you knew there would be no backing down. You were already in too deep. Hopefully he was an understanding man.

You scan the room in search of any other place to sit. To your dismay there hadn’t been any chairs available. You lift the front of your dress before walking to the bed and taking a seat. This time Tommy follows you to sit on the bed. His coat and hat are long gone. His hand now holding yours. A wedding ring he gave you glimmers in the dim lighting. Tommy looks into your eyes as he caresses your cheek. It’s a sweet, tender moment at first.

Then his grip begins to tighten. It became almost painful with his ring digging into your jaw. His thumb held your chin in place. His voice is deep and menacing, filled with venom, “Your job is to be a dutiful wife, alright? Don’t expect anything special, do you understand?” He tilts your head up, “Do.you.understand?” that was one way to break a girl’s fantasy.

Tommy wanted to make sure you’d comply to his every bid, no matter what. Even if it meant scaring you into submission. You look up to meet his icy blues then down to avoid his intimidating gaze, “…Y-yes.” you faintly reply. He lets go. You rub your face. His strength was not something that compared to the average man.

You make a mental note not to get on his bad side. The room is silent for a bit before you chirp up, “…May I please retire for the night?” deep down part of you just wanted him to leave. Nothing could make you more upset than now, or at least that’s what you thought. Tommy could tell you were on the edge by the way your hands shake, cautiously peeling the lace veil from your hairs.

You began to remove all jewelry and drop them onto the nightstand. One by one, you remove each gift your husband bestowed upon you. The very last item had been a diamond necklace. You unclasp the small chain. But before you could drop it on the nightstand you hear him call for you. His voice is sturdy, “No, keep it on, I want to see you wear that and only that for when we get started,”