PUBLISHED: 22/05/2022

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 39

PUBLISHED: 15/07/2022

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

THIRD PERSON'S POV

You sat at your dining table, listening to the noise coming from inside as Finn, Saoirse, Daisy, Karl, Aberama, Bonnie, Isiah, and Oscar all worked together to cook breakfast — brunch, now, you mused as you looked at your watch.

It was Mother's Day today, and Finn and Saoirse were originally going to cook just you breakfast, but then Saoirse wanted to cook something for Ezzie, and Polly, and Ada, and Hilda. Jeremiah, who Isiah always celebrated Mother's Day and Father's Day with, was also invited. That was how that lot, as well as Isiah, Aberama, Karl, and Daisy ended up here. Saoirse then called Bonnie and demanded that he come and help cook or he wouldn't be a part of the family anymore (an empty threat, of course, but the cooking would feel incomplete without him). He ended up bringing Oscar, who was a welcomed addition.

You ended up taking the table outside so you could enjoy the weather, which wasn't all that bad at the moment.

You could hear your father instructing Saoirse on how to scramble the eggs properly. The smell drifted down to you and made you feel queasy, so you drank some of your ginger beer to fight it. This didn't go unnoticed by Polly, who poured you a cup of tea.

"Try some tea, love. Maybe it'll settle your stomach," She suggested, pushing the cup towards you.

You took it gratefully, sipping away.

"You're not reading my leaves, though," You warned the woman, seeing right through her antics.

She sighed, then looked at Esmeralda, who cocked an eyebrow as if to say 'I told you so'.

"What are you two on about?" You demanded, feeling terribly left out.

"Nothing," The two replied quickly, making it know that they were very much on about something.

"Oh, god, what's wrong with (Y/N)?" Ada questioned, knowing that the only time Polly read leaves was when someone had something big happening to them.

"Something's wrong with (Y/N)?" Hilda asked hurriedly, eyeing you worriedly.

"She looks fine," Jeremiah commented, sipping on his coffee as he read the newspaper, not even bothering to look at you or entertain the women's antics.

"Nothing's wrong with me!" You snapped, a bit louder than you should've, waking Finn Junior from his nap at your feet.

He yowled in protest, swiping at your ankles, making you yelp.

"Tell me what you two are going on about before I take your eyes out with a spoon," You threatened, narrowing your eyes at the pair sitting across from you.

Ezzie and Polly looked at each other, then back at you.

"I had a dream that you gave birth," Ezzie admitted, making you scoff.

"Your dreams are always hit-and-miss," You pointed out, she didn't always have dreams that came to be like you did.

You conveniently left out the fact that you also had a dream that you went into labour. It didn't feel like a prophetic dream. Just a normal dream. Wishful thinking. You knew the difference.

"And that is why I want to read your leaves," Polly added, making you huff as you tipped the remains of the cup out onto the ground, leaves and all, then slammed the cup back down onto the table, hard.

You were surprised that the cup didn't break.

The pair took that as a sign to take a step back. Hilda placed a hand on yours, and squeezed it comfortingly.

"If she was having a baby she would've told you all," Jeremiah pointed out, placing his newspaper down, not seeing any point to the women's nonsense.

You all sat tensely, waiting for brunch to be cooked and brought out.

"Is something burning?" Ada broke the thick silence, and you went to snap at her for saying something so ridiculous, but you soon smelled the scent yourself.

You all quickly looked back over at the house, and through the window you could see Finn, now rushing around with a smoking frying pan, everyone else in the kitchen laughing at him.

He left through the kitchen door, and after a few beats he appeared through the side door, rushing to the railing and throwing the burnt stuff onto the ground.

"What did you manage to burn, Finny boy?" Jeremiah called out to the boy, and Finn rolled his eyes.

"He burnt the onion!" Saoirse yelled out of the window, giggling.

"You shush, little miss," Finn commanded, pointing the frying pan at her, but grinned as she still giggled away.

"Finn, I was looking forward to having onion on my hamburger. Bee, divorce your husband," Ezzie joked, and you chuckled.

"I shall have to, the smell of burnt stuff stinks," You complained, screwing up your nose as you took a sip of your ginger beer.

"You know, they sort of look like you, (Y/N)," Finn said as he looked down at the burnt mess, then up at you.

"Finn Theo Shelby, stop comparing me to fucking onions! Push my buttons again and you're sleeping on the couch tonight," You said to your husband, narrowing your eyes at him, and the people around you started cackling.

"Love you," Finn threw over his shoulder before walking back inside.

•••

You all had a good brunch. Oscar and the kids had washed up and put away, and now you were all scattered around the house, either napping or relaxing. The kids were out on the play equipment with the cat and dogs.

You were stood in the kitchen with Ada, eating some leftover muffins, pencilling in Saoirse's next dentist appointment on the calendar. Ada came over and bumped you to the side, then started flipping around the calendar herself.

"What in the fuck are you looking for?" You asked her as she counted days, flipping back and forth between the pages.

"Couldn't find it, doesn't matter," She replied, and you rolled your eyes, downing the last of your drink.

"You right watching the kids? I feel tired," You said, and she nodded telling you to go and sleep and that she'd get the kids inside to colour so she could nap too.

You walked out to the hallway, and stuck your head through the doorway of the living room, where all of the couches were taken. Oscar and Bonnie were asleep on the couches in front of the fire. Hilda and Jeremiah were asleep on the couches surrounding the green rug.

You headed down the hallway to the smaller guest room, and stuck your head in the doorway there. Isiah and your sister were sound asleep, your sister snoring softly. You looked across the hall. Polly and Aberama.

You walked back down the hallway, into the living room and up the stairs, going down to your own room.

Finn was making himself comfortable in the bed, eyes half closed as he did so. You wasted no time kicking off your shoes and crawling into bed with him.

Finn quickly moved so he was flush against you, humming contentedly as you drifted off to dreamland, your husband not far behind you.

§§§

Chapter forty is next — it feels surreal to have a fanfic with such a high chapter count lmao

Also, honest question to you readers; Would you prefer me to follow the plot of the show and kill off Bonnie, or leave him alive?

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

TAGLIST

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NEXT PART

Part 40

Hey y'all x long time no see or long time no read I guess 💀 I've literally been working on chapter fifty since I finished chapter forty-nine like two years ago.

Buttt I'm back with a new chapter and a HUGE favour to ask you guys!

Recently, due to unforeseen circumstances of DV, I've become homeless. I am safe, but I am travelling back to my hometown to get away from it and stay safe, but for that to happen I need at *least* $2000 (yay fuel prices!) that I don't have just to cover fuel so I've started a GoFundMe!

For me to get home I have to drive through 3 different states and the drive is 3 days long, stops included. My GoFundMe is linked in my bio, as well as this post, please please please share it around or donate if you can and if you're of age to do so 🫶🏽 any donations made will help me get home safely as well as help me find my feet until I find work.

gofundme.com

Donate to Escaping DV and Homelessness, organized by Grace Morgan

Hi, Fundraising to help me and my family escape domestic violence and homelessness by dr… Grace Morgan needs your support for Escaping D

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 7

PUBLISHED: 18/05/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

THIRD PERSON'S POV

(A/N: I haven't been to a wedding in yonks so this and the next chapter is me really just making stuff up as I go lmao)

Today was the anticipated day. The union between (Y/N) Gold and Finn Shelby. You had woken up a nervous wreck.

You hadn't even been able to eat anything, not even biscuits with your tea, something that made Esmeralda and Saoirse concerned — you had always had an ungodly amount of biscuits, at least four, whenever you had a cup of tea. Once, Esmeralda was sure she counted twelve on your saucer.

It was now eight in the morning, and your sisters were begging you to eat at least one mouthful of the feast Polly had cooked for you and your bridal party. You had all slept at your residence, while Finn and his groomsmen were getting ready at Tommy's.

You picked up a pancake, and took a small bite — it was fluffy and soft. You chewed it, and mindlessly began drumming your fingers on the tabletop.

"So, I'm walking down the aisle with Arthur, Tommy with Lizzie, Bonnie with Ada, and Isiah with Ezzie." Polly reminded the girls at the table, who all nodded.

"And I get to throw the flower petals!" Saoirse cheered, making Polly chuckle.

"Yes you do, my dear." Polly said with a smile towards the small girl, who was now playing with a doll.

"(Y/N), go shower, we leave in three hours!" Ezzie hissed, making you hurry on eating your pancake.

"And Finn will be here in two and a half to drop off your something new," Ada pointed out, making you curious.

Once you were done your pancake, you walked to the bathroom, and had a quick shower, washing your hair and body with some nice smelling shampoo, conditioner and body wash set Lizzie had gifted you. You trusted her, she seemed to know what the men liked. You also quickly went over your legs and underarms with a razor, and brushed your teeth. You weren't that cruel to make Finn kiss you with morning breath.

You hopped out of the shower, dried yourself and wrapped a towel around your body, then wrapped your hair up in another towel, this one being a microfiber one to help it dry quicker. You walked to your room, where Ezzie was sitting on the bed.

"You're putting on that set," Ezzie said with a stern look on her face.

You knew that look. That look was the one she gave when she meant something was final. The first and last time you disobeyed that look, you ended up with a rather nasty bruise in the shape of her paddle brush. You didn't want another, so you begrudgingly put on the set of lingerie you had bought yesterday.

"It's not like he's going to see it," You grumbled, trying — and failing — to clip up your bra behind you.

Ezzie came over and wordlessly helped you, then handed you a bottle of lotion. It looked as if it came from the same set as the shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, and as you opened the bottle and the smell hit your nose, your thoughts were confirmed.

You quickly put some lotion on, then put on your slip. You looked up at the clock.

Two hours left. You felt the pit in your stomach get deeper. What would happen after you and Finn officially got married? Would you continue on acting civil all your lives, never to love each other but being bound to each other for all eternity? Or would Tommy be kind enough to let you get with different people, and the marriage only be for show? It was all a big mess of confusion, and you hated it.

•••

"Your hair is going up today," Ezzie informed you casually, not bothering to look at you, making your heart stop.

"I can't do braids or anything," You said quietly, making Ezzie look at you.

"That's why I'll be doing it," She reassured, giving you a small smile, "It's only me."

You took a deep breath, but nodded. She was right. It was Ezzie. She wasn't going to hurt you.

"Come sit," She instructed, and you did so.

You handed her your hairbrush, and she started detangling your long, (H/C) locks, starting at the ends then moving up to the roots. Once your hair was knot free, she parted your hair in the usual spot.

In the reflection, you spotted Polly and your Dad come to stand in the doorway of your bedroom. The first thing Polly noticed as your sister started braiding your hair was how tightly you were gripping the legs of the vanity. Your knuckles were white. She noticed that you were sitting stiff as a board, as if getting ready to jump out of your chair at a moments' notice.

"Hi," You greeted your Dad softly, still unsure of whether you wanted to interact with him or not.

"Hello, Bee," Aberama replied, staying in the doorway, giving you a wide berth for your own peace of mind.

You grinned at the nickname. Your Dad had nicknamed all of you kids after something that was the colour of your favourite colour — you were Bee, Esmeralda was Turtle, Bonnie was Tiger, and Saoirse hadn't settled on a colour yet.

"You'd think her sister was about to murder her," Polly whispered to your Dad, who pursed his lips.

He sniffed and cleared his throat, "Marian, she — she would never let (Y/N) put her hair up, so it would get really knotted, I'm talking nearly matted, Polly — and then she would make (Y/N) sit as she would pull the brush through her hair and (Y/N)'s body would have no chance but to follow the brush and (Y/N) would be in so much pain and that slut would enjoy every minute of what she'd put my Bee through."

Polly put a hand to her mouth, horrified that someone could do that to their baby. She could never, ever imagine doing that to her Michael, or her Anna.

Aberama and Polly watched as Esmeralda carefully braided your hair into a crown, leaving wisps out to frame your face, then delicately put wildflowers into the braid.

Polly looked at the clock. One hour left. She quickly got the dress from your wardrobe, and Ezzie ushered you out of your seat, and Ezzie helped you into your dress. You weren't wearing shoes — high heels and yourself weren't the best of friends. You weren't even acquaintances.

•••

You were now pacing in your bedroom, waiting for Finn to come give you your something new. The pit in your stomach had gotten worse, and it was taking everything in you to not spit out your gum and start chewing your nails.

A knock sounded on your door. You stopped your pacing and spun around, facing the door. You took a deep, steadying breath.

"Come in," You called, your voice shaky.

The door opened, and there stood Finn Shelby.

You gasped softly. He walked in, shutting the door behind him. He looked a vision, standing there in his suit. You'd be lying if you said that you didn't find him attractive right now. You wouldn't mind someone painting a portrait of this moment in time so you could always look back at it, just to see this version of Finn again.

You realised you were staring, and quickly looked away.

Finn, however, was too busy admiring you to notice. This was the first time he had seen you with your hair up. You looked like some kind of angel, but not the ones he read about in the Bible with Jeremiah. The pretty kind. To him, in this moment, you looked divine.

"Hi, Finn," You said shyly, feeling awkward under his gaze.

"Hi, (Y/N)," Finn greeted, sounding breathless, "You look — amazing, honest."

"You don't look too bad yourself," You teased as you looked back at him.

He grinned, then remembered what he came for. He fished a small box out of his pocket.

"These are our something new." He explained as you walked closer to him.

He opened the box, revealing two silver pendants, each the shape of half a heart.

"They're beautiful," You stated, looking up at Finn.

He felt pleased that you liked it. He had out a lot of thought into it, and there wasn't really much good stuff a person could get in five days.

He gently grabbed the one with his initials out and handed it to you, "Yours. We wear each other's initials."

"Can you put it on me?" You asked, scared the clasp would get caught in your hair and you would ruin your sister's handiwork.

Finn nodded, swapping you the box for your necklace. He undid the clasp, and put it around your neck, then did it back up again. He saw your spine peeking out of the top of your dress, and couldn't resist softly dragging the tip of his index finger up it, which made you gasp and shiver.

"Sorry," He mumbled, not feeling sorry at all.

Your skin was soft. He wanted to feel it again someday. And, when he was this close, he could smell your perfume. He liked the smell of it. He’d have to buy you more.

"Would you like me to put yours on you?" You questioned, turning back around.

"Yeah, please," Finn replied, handing you the box.

You went and stood behind him, necklace in hand.

"Can you bend your knees a little?" You asked the brown haired boy — he was a little bit taller than you.

Finn did as you asked, and you put the necklace on him. He spotted your bridal bouquet on the vanity, Aberama's tie wrapped around it, and chuckled.

"What?" You demanded, peeking around him to look in the same direction.

"You have silver bells in your bouquet — Mistress Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow? With silver bells and cockle shells and pretty pairs all in a row," Finn recited, "You and Mary, you've both got silver bells and pretty maids both in a row and you're both contrary."

"I'm not contrary!" You snapped, frowning as Finn turned to face you, "I've got ... layers."

He nodded sagely, "Like an onion."

You gave him a funny look, "What the fuck are you comparing me to an onion for?"

"I don't know, the boys had fried ones for breakfast!" Finn defended, putting his hands up.

"Did you have any? I don't care that it's a wedding, I won't become lip locked with you if you've eaten onions this morning!" You threatened, jabbing a finger to his chest.

"I haven't!" Finn said truthfully, but you narrowed your eyes at him.

"Let me smell your breath," You commanded, and he  complied, breathing heavily your face.

"You're lucky," You warned after the minty breath entered your nose.

Finn chuckled, which made you realise how ridiculous you were being. You started giggling along with him, then the door was knocked upon.

"Finn's got to go!" Ada said through the door.

You looked at the door, then back at Finn.

"See you there," You said quietly, the magic of the previous moment gone as reality set back in.

Finn nodded, "See you there.”

He turned to walk out of the bedroom, and you had the urge to grab his hand to make him stop, but you ignored it. He exited the room, leaving you in silence once more.

§§§

THE NEXT CHAPTER IS THE WEDDING AHHHH — I apologise for not much Finn and reader interaction but eh

Love y’all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 8

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

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NEXT PART

Part 24

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

NEXT PART

Part 26

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@paisley-37

@shelundeadxxxx

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i do have a personal blog and I finally posted stuff there so, if you want to keep up with me, you guys should go follow!!

@naiwillalwaysloveyou

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 5

PUBLISHED: 16/05/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

THIRD PERSON'S POV

Finn could hear you chattering away to the girls most of the day. You bonded more with them than you did with him, and it was safe to say that they adored you, and you them, bar Linda. He was slightly grateful, because it would make your transition into the family easier on you if you were liked.

You had become a good use in the betting shop, whispering in the men's ears on which horse you thought would win. Who would be stupid enough to ignore a traveller girl with a nice smile?

Little did the men know, you were making sure Shelby Company Limited would earn all the men's money by telling them to bet their money on the losing horses. Polly admired your cunningness.

It was now the end of the day, the shop just closing. You were sat on Polly's desk, chewing gum, laughing at some story Polly was telling you about your Dad. Finn was stood in the doorway, watching the pair of you, feeling envious at how Polly had managed to worm her way into your good graces and he was stuck being called 'Shelby'.

Linda pushed past Finn to show Polly something or other.

"You can't read it, you're not part of the business," Linda said to you, dropping the file onto Polly's desk just behind you.

"You're acting all high and mighty for someone who joined the business five seconds before I came through the door," You replied breezily, "And besides, I can't read — or write — anyway. I can do my name, and Dad says that's enough."

That didn't come to a surprise to Finn, he only learned how to read when he turned seventeen last year, and he still wasn't the best at it, even though he practiced reading the Bible every night with Jeremiah Jesus.

Linda scoffed, rolling her eyes, "Doesn't your family care about you children enough to teach you how to read?"

You stopped chewing your gum, and pursed your lips, looking at Linda.

"What did you just say?" You asked calmly.

"I'm just saying, if you want a respectable job and not one as a whore or a hit man your father should have taught you how to read," Linda stated, opening up the file.

One moment you were sitting there as Linda started explaining what she was showing to Polly, and the next you and Linda were on the floor, you on top of her punching her relentlessly with no sign of stopping.

"Oh, fuck," Finn gasped, hurrying over to pull you off of Linda, who had blood pouring from her mouth and nose.

Polly made no move to grab you, just watching it unfold. In her opinion, you could say whatever you wanted about a person, but you left their family out of it.

You threw your right elbow back, hitting Finn square in the nose, sending him stumbling back. He was dazed for a few seconds, but quickly recovered, grabbing you by the collar and dragging you back off of the poor woman. He could feel his nose dripping blood.

You thrashed around in his grip, trying to get him to let you go.

"(Y/N), if you hurt Linda any more it'll make it harder for Tommy to consider your terms for the marriage — Bonnie and safety when passing through, remember?" Finn cautioned, making you stop your thrashing.

"Don't you ever talk about my family like that ever again, you Christian slut!" You shrieked at Linda, who was rolling on the floor, holding a hand on her face and groaning.

Finn helped you up roughly, his nose still pouring blood. He lead you to the bathroom, where he grabbed some toilet paper and dabbed under his nose. He looked in the mirror, thankfully it didn't get onto his shirt. You turned on the tap and started washing your hands.

Finn pinched his nose shut, making sure to lean slightly forward as he looked at you in the mirror.

"Linda's not in the bridal party then?" Finn asked, words barely decipherable.

"Absolutely not," You spat as you grabbed paper towels to dry your hands, "I want Polly to be there, and Lizzie — Your sister Ada can be there if she wants. That makes four bridesmaids with Ezzie, Saoirse can be the flower girl."

Finn nodded, then thought about groomsmen. Thomas, Arthur, Isiah, and someone else. Michael would still be in hospital. Maybe Bonnie? Karl could be the ring bearer, he was the right age for it.

"Erm, can Bonnie be one of my groomsmen? And can my nephew Karl be the ring bearer?" Finn asked, watching as you took deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth to calm yourself down.

"I'm not Bonnie's fucking mother, he can do what he wants!" You barked, "And yes, your nephew can be the ring bearer, now fuck up and leave me be!"

Finn gave you an awkward thumbs up, not wanting to nod. You would've laughed at the sight if you weren't still mad.

Polly entered the bathroom, looking at Finn then at you, "I'm about to take Linda home, everything alright in here, no trouble in paradise?"

You nodded, "I'm gonna stay in here for a bit until I cool down. He's just taking care of his nose. You, Lizzie, Ada, all have a spot in my bridal party do you wish, I will not have that cunt anywhere near me on Friday, if she's near me I might stab her with a spoon."

"Oh god, you've definitely got your Mother's anger issues," Polly muttered, making you frown, "Alright, tomorrow we'll leave nine o'clock to go to the seamstress here in town, sound good?"

"Sounds good," You confirmed, and Polly spun on her heel and walked out, her boots clacking against the floor.

Finn looked at you out of the corner of his eye. As he eyed you up, decided that you were more than capable of taking Linda out with a spoon.

You and Finn stood in silence for a few more minutes, you managing to get your anger under wraps. You spat out your gum into the bin, and Finn threw the bloody toilet paper in there as well.

"Come on, let's go home, I've got stuff to do," Finn commanded lightly, leading you out of the bathroom.

The pair of you passed the dining room, where Tommy was waiting.

"Finn! (Y/N)!" He called out, making you both turn, "Come here."

You followed Finn hesitantly, a big contrast to his confident walk. You were sure that Tommy was about to yell at you for hitting Linda.

"How was your day?" Tommy asked, his eyes flitting between you.

"Yeah, it was okay," Finn answered, conveniently leaving out the part where you thrashed Linda.

"I had fun bonding with the girls," You admitted, following Finn's lead and ignoring the elephant in the room.

"And Finn!" You added hurriedly as an afterthought.

"Good people. Well done. No trouble?" Tommy questioned, dropping his to his side, flicking the ash off the end of the cigarette.

"No. No trouble." Finn responded, shaking his head.

"What's this I hear about your fiancée flogging Linda, then?" Tommy asked, looking directly at you.

"She suggested my Dad was negligent. I wasn't having it," You answered simply, looking right back at him.

You were feeling nervous, even if your actions didn't show it, with the way your heart was palpitating you had no doubt.

"I know, and I think she knows that now too. Try to keep punches between you and any member of the Shelby family to a minimum from now on, yeah?" Tommy said, and you knew even though it sounded like a question, it was a command.

"Yeah." You agreed quietly, stepping back.

Finn let out a breath he didn't know he was holding as Tommy nodded.

"Erm, after we get married, (Y/N) wants some stuff to happen, Tom." Finn cut in, making Tommy cock a brow, but gesture for him to continue.

"She wants you to hire Aberama whenever you can, because he'll be family and we take care of our own. She wants you to promote Bonnie as best as you can, and for the Lees to leave the Golds alone whenever they pass through here," Finn concluded, looking Tommy in the eyes.

Tommy took a draw from his cigarette, then nodded, "I'll see what I can do, I should be able to fulfil your wishes. You can go now, I'll lock up."

You and Finn nodded, and turned to go.

"Oh, and (Y/N), good job on getting everyone to bet today, Poll told me. It'd be good if you can do the same tomorrow." Tommy added, making you throw a 'yeah' over your shoulder as Finn opened the door for you.

"What business do you have to do?" You asked Finn curiously as you set off down Watery Lane.

"Reading lessons, I have them every night if I have the time." Finn replied, "I learn from a preacher. He's my best mate's dad."

You nodded thoughtfully as you popped another piece of gum in your mouth.

"Would — would I be able to join?" You asked, looking at him, trying not to sound too hopeful.

"Of course you can," Finn reassured, making the corners of your lips quirk up.

You walked in a comfortable silence to Jeremiah Jesus's home, where Finn knocked on the door in a particular manner.

Isiah Jesus opened the door, and grinned at his best mate, then saw you behind Finn. He quickly stepped aside and let the pair of you enter his home.

"Finn, nice to see you again," Jeremiah greeted as if he hadn't seen the boy in ages, when in reality Finn was at his house two days prior. "Here for another reading lesson?"

"Yeah, and it's always a pleasure to be here. Isiah, Jeremiah, this is my fiancée (Y/N)." Finn introduced you to the men, "She doesn't do handshakes, or any touching."

You nodded in greeting, Isiah and Jeremiah nodded back and saying their heys.

"Would it be alright if she joined in our reading lesson?" Finn asked Jeremiah, who grabbed his Bible, along with some pencils and pieces of paper.

"Of course — Come sit down, Isiah go out the kettle on." Jeremiah commanded his son as you Finn sat either side of the man at the small, rectangular dining table.

Jeremiah told Finn to start reading a particular Bible verse out loud, then turned to you.

"Do you know how to say your alphabet?" Jeremiah asked you, sliding you a pencil and piece of paper.

You nodded, placing your hands on the table unsurely.

"Know how to write it?" Jeremiah continued, making you shake your head.

"I'll write the letters and you copy them underneath," Jeremiah said, quickly writing the twenty-six letters on the page, then drawing small arrows next to the letters to show you which way to direct your pencil on the page to form the letters.

He then pointed to the first one, "This is 'a'. Now, write it on your page."

You grabbed your pencil hesitantly, feeling embarrassed.

"Hold it like this," Jeremiah advised, picking up his own pencil.

You adjusted your grip, and placed your pencil on the page, writing a shaky 'a' then looking at Jeremiah, who smiled at you.

"Well done, (Y/N)." He praised, making you smile from ear to ear.

Finn looked up at you from across the table, stopping reading momentarily. This was the first time he'd seen you properly smile, the happiest you had ever been since he met you. In the moment before he started reading again, he decided happiness looked nice on you.

§§§

I'm coming out of isolation tomorrow so Contrary probably won't be updated as frequently!!

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 6

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 38

PUBLISHED: 15/07/2022

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

THIRD PERSON'S POV

You watched as Saoirse flitter around the park in her pretty pink dress, giving Valentines Day cards to her classmates, chattering away as she did so. Today her class had their Valentines Day party and picnic, and parents and guardians were invited along to attend.

You and Finn had gotten permission off of Tommy (who may have gotten a telling off from Lizzie) to go. The pair of you were slightly nervous. Finn Junior, who was lazing at your feet, made you slightly more nervous. No other parents had a pet that followed them around like yours did.

You, stood in your red dress and brown coat, was the youngest guardian there, barely seventeen. That, along with the fact that you were Saoirse's older sister, a traveller, and married to Finn Shelby, were the only concrete facts that everyone knew about you. You knew that the rumour mill was probably in overdrive right now. You fiddled with the charms on your bracelet, and tried not to think about it.

Everyone knew of the reputation of the Shelbys, Finn was the youngest of them, and there was rumours that he had followed in their footsteps, even though he was a part of their legitimate business. Even with people saying that the two of you were fine, the parents were all still a bit on edge.

Hilda noticed the disapproving, and curious, looks the other parents were giving you and your husband, and sniffed. Ever the motherly person, she gathered some of her brownies on a pink paper plate and put her million dollar smile on, then walked briskly over to the pair of you.

"Finn, (Y/N)!" She said, catching your attention, "I baked brownies for today, here, try some!"

She held the plate out to you both. You took it and gave her a grateful smile, Finn verbally thanking her. You balanced the plate in the same hand as your cup skilfully, a talent you had learned after beginning your work in the office and using smaller purses to fit in.

You could barely fit anything in your purse, having to carry everything in your hands. You were glad that you had been to a seamstress to make you skirts and dresses with pockets, as well as make pants that looked like skirts with pockets deep enough to hold whatever you liked. You even got new coats with pockets galore. Those coats were useful for pickpocketing, although you didn't need to do it much these days.

With your free hand, you lifted a brownie up and went to bite into it, but Finn grabbed your wrist and guided the brownie up to his own mouth, making you tsk but you let him bite the brownie, giving it to him to hold. You picked another up, this time your husband left you alone, content with his own brownie.

"How's Daisy's leg?" You questioned before nibbling on your own brownie.

She had fallen over in the last netball game she played, her leg was still badly bruised. Hilda looked over at her daughter, the bruise still very prominent on her shin. Finn winced at the sight of it.

"It's fine, the doctor said it's only a really bad bruise," Hilda replied, giving her daughter a wave and blowing her a kiss.

Daisy pretended to catch the kiss and put it in her pocket. For a split second, Finn imagined you doing that with your daughter. His daughter. He shook his head to rid himself of the thought.

"That's good to hear," Finn said, taking a sip of his cordial then grimacing.

It was too sweet. Way too sweet. No wonder Saoirse was running around the way she was. Finn pitied their poor teacher, who had to take them back into class after this. Twenty kids, all hopped up on cordial and sweets. They had sandwiches laid out, too, but they were untouched by the kids, only the adults grabbed some. Finn wished he was still eight so he could've grabbed all sweets. It just wasn't acceptable as an adult.

You brought a hand up to your mouth after a sip of cordial, the sweetness a bit too much for you. Hilda noticed this and quickly offered you her cup of water. You took it and drank the whole thing.

"Sorry. Everything seems to make me feel sick these days," You complained halfheartedly, and Hilda gave you a knowing look.

"You should go and see a doctor about it soon then," She advised as Saoirse and Daisy came prancing over, arms interlocked.

You nodded, but knew it was probably nothing. If you were anything like your mother and her mother before her, any children would be a long time coming.

"Bee, Bee, I've given out all of my cards!" Saoirse announced, "And Daisy helped!"

"She gave one to every single person in our class, it was annoying walking all around to them," Daisy groaned, making you all chuckle.

Daisy had also given one to each of their classmates, but she was smart enough to put their cards into their cubbies, which is what you told Saoirse to do too. You supposed that she got carried away with the excitement of the picnic, which was fair enough.

"Here comes Dick!" Daisy said, pointing to their classmate as he approached your little huddle, parents in tow.

You had heard a lot about him from Saoirse and Daisy. He was Saoirse's desk mate. He had a stutter, and he could draw the best, and did the best knots with shoelaces. He wasn't very good at maths, but he really tried, and he was getting a little better, but not a lot. He was happy to swing the rope at skipping if the teacher couldn't, even if it meant that he didn't get a turn, but Saoirse or Daisy always volunteered to swing it for a bit so he could have a go.

"His name is Richard! Richard!" A blushing Hilda hissed lowly at her daughter, making you and Finn cover your mouth with your hands as you snickered, "Do not call him that blasted name that all of the others call him!"

"Hi, Richie!" Saoirse greeted cheerfully, and you were internally relieved that she picked a decent nickname to call the poor boy.

"H-Hi Sh-Sha-Sha." Richard greeted in reply, shifting from foot to foot as he adjusted his glasses.

He looked up at his mother, then his father, who gave his blond hair a ruffle.

"Richard has something to tell you, Saoirse, and you too Daisy," His father prompted him, and he looked back at Saoirse and Daisy.

"Th-Th-Thank you both for-for the c-card," Richard said shyly, his face turning pink.

You laid your head on Finn's upper arm, watching the scene unfold in front of you.

"You're our friend, you deserved a card," Saoirse said firmly, and looked at Daisy, who nodded.

Richard flushed once more, and looked down at Finn Junior, who was now rubbing against Saoirse's legs. You were happy that you had made her wear stockings the colour of his fur.

"Do you want to play with him? He's friendly. He goes on the big circle swing, do you want to go on there with him?" Saoirse offered, and Richard nodded hesitantly, and that was all it took for Saoirse to reach over and grab his hand, then lead him towards the swings.

Daisy caught up to the pair and grabbed Richard's other hand, Finn Junior trailing behind.

"She's such a nice little girl. They both are," Richard's mother sighed, watching the group as they put the cat into the swing, then Richard.

You and Finn felt a bit of pride well up in your chests.

"They were the only two to give my Richie a card, thank you," Richard's mother said, turning to face you.

"It's no problem, honest. Saoirse knows that with things like this it's either everyone or no one," You reassured, giving her your soft, friendly smile, then extending a hand for her to shake, "I'm (Y/N)."

"Penelope," She supplied as she shook your hand, giving you a small grin back.

"Gary," His father greeted as you shook his hand.

He had a businessman's handshake, you noticed. You and Finn got to talking with the pair, talking about everything from the weather today to a potential play date for Saoirse and Dylan (and Daisy, of course).

After seeing Penelope and Gary go over to the pair of you, more parents came over to introduce themselves.

Hilda hummed to herself as she walked away from the group to get more water, feeling victorious as you and Finn chuckled along with the rest of the parents, finally 'in' with them.

•••

The crowd was wild, everyone screaming for Bonnie. If you were out there you'd probably be screaming with them. But no, you had to go and grab Oscar, and take him to where you were all sitting.

You headed down the hallway to the room where Bonnie was getting ready. You walked through the open door, and the first thing you noticed was an unfamiliar, handsome, brown haired boy sitting back to front on a chair, watching Bonnie shadow box. Your father was leaned against the wall, a cigar hanging out of the corner of his mouth as he watched his son, and how his son's newfound 'friend' looked at his son.

Aberama was very sure that his son's friend wasn't even a friend at all, that the boy was something more. It surely seemed so, especially with the way the pair went on when Oscar was wrapping Bonnie's knuckles. The pair spoke softly to each other, giggled, turned red, and Oscar was ever so gentle when he was wrapping Bonnie's knuckles, asking if the fabric was too tight or too loose. Aberama felt like he was intruding on something whilst he was watching the pair. And, as well as all of their other actions, they were doing a lot of 'not looking'.

'Not looking' (verb): The act of staring at the person you are infatuated with until they look at you, at which point you tear your gaze away and pretend to focus on something else. A sign of certain romantic attraction.

Aberama was tempted to ask you about the pair, but he knew that if you knew you wouldn't say anything, forever loyal to your brother.

But Aberama knew 'not looking' all too well, having done it when he had little schoolboy crushes. You didn't do it to just a friend.

"Save something for the fight, Bon," You teased your brother, and he immediately stopped, looking towards you, then running over and pulling you into a hug.

He hadn't seen you in two weeks. That was the longest you had ever been apart ever since you moved in with your father. It was wearing down the both of you.

You chuckled and hugged your brother back tightly. After a few moments, you let each other go. You waved at your father, having seen him only that morning when you went to Polly's for tea.

"And you must be Oscar," You greeted the man sitting backwards on the chair.

He stood up and swung his leg over, walked over to you, and shook your hand, saying his greetings.

"We'll go and head off to our seats, aye? Fight's about to start soon," You said, and Oscar nodded.

"We'll see you later," You said over your shoulder to your father and brother, Oscar waving goodbye to Bonnie, who looked slightly disappointed to see him go.

You walked down the hallway, heels clacking with every step. Oscar followed you somewhat awkwardly. You stopped suddenly, and spun to face the boy, checking your surroundings to make sure no one else was near.

"Listen closely, Oscar," You began, looking the boy in the eyes, "If you hurt our Bonnie in any way, shape, or form, whether it be physically or emotionally; I will kill you. I know where you live, I know where your family members live, I know where your friends live, I know where you go for drinks of a Friday night — Fuck, I even know where your employer lives. So, again, if you hurt Bonnie, I will hunt you down, and paint your surrounds red with your blood. Are we clear, Oscar Boswell?"

Oscar, who was now considerably paper than before, gulped and nodded. Bonnie had told him that you would probably threaten him, but fuck, he didn't think you'd be that scary.

"Good. Now, let's go, I've got you caramel popcorn because Bonnie said you like it," You told him, spinning on your heel and strutting off again.

Oscar sighed heavily before following you to your front row seats. You gave him his popcorn and his drink, chattering away. Oscar was somewhat more comfortable with you now that you were surrounded by people.

Finn was across the ring, watching you as you sat with Oscar. You caught your husband's eye and winked at him, blowing a kiss. Finn chuckled and took a swing from his flask, admiring how the dress you were wearing fit you in all the right places.

•••

Bonnie had won the fight, of course, and you all went out to drink to celebrate. Your brother was pleased to hear that, other than threatening Oscar like he knew you would, the night went smoothly and the pair of you got on with each other quite well.

Your father approached you as you sipped on your gin.

"Bee, my girl," He began, making you jerk your chin up as if to say 'what?'

"Bonnie and Oscar, are they ..." He trailed off, but vaguely gestured with his hands so you knew what he meant.

You shrugged one shoulder lazily, "Dunno. Should ask Bon instead of me."

Aberama nodded and you handed him your bottle of gin. He took a swig and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, giving the bottle back to you.

He looked over at his son and Oscar, the pair standing so close you'd think they'd be joined at the hip.

He chuckled to himself as he settled down in the booth next to you.

Forever loyal to your brother. He couldn't even be annoyed at you for that. You were a good person, better than he ever would be at seventeen.

§§§

Okay so this chapter came much easier than the last one lol

I'm getting closer and closer to when I start writing abt season 5 Finn and i am DREADING it

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

TAGLIST

@meadownicolee

@toothlessmcleod

@im-your-possession

@bethabear12

@paisley-37

@shelundeadxxxx

@bluehairdie

@krillfromsky

@cucumberfingefsandwiches

NEXT PART

Part 39

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 13

PUBLISHED: 27/05/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

READER'S POV

I had been here for about five days. I think. Assuming that the meals they had been bringing me were when they had their breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

I hadn't killed any Italians, but I did maim the one who knocked me unconscious in Watery Lane, when he brought me my lunch the other day. Luca hadn't been too pleased when he found out, but he did agree that he didn't say anything about not maiming any of his men.

I was sitting on the floor, drawing on the wall with a piece of chalk Luca had given me. I would lose my mind if I was stuck down here with nothing to do. There wasn't even any windows. The air felt staler than bread that had been left out.

I heard the door unlock, and spun around on the spot. Luca was coming down the stairs, no tray full of food in hand.

"Is it breakfast already?" I questioned, feeling confused.

I had woken up a while ago, but I was sure that breakfast wasn't for a bit.

"Not yet," Luca informed me, coming to stand in front of me, putting his hands into his pocket, "For your good behaviour, ignoring that one incident, I've decided to grant you a wish."

"Let me go home?" I remarked, making him chuckle.

"Something more doable." Luca stated, looking down at me and waiting for my answer.

"Can — Can I be put into a room with windows?" I inquired, trying push the feelings of hopefulness away.

"Yes. We've got a room ready upstairs for you." Luca replied, "Your ma said you would want that."

I frowned. They already had me, why would they want her around?

Luca reached a hand out, and I ignored it, pushing off the floor and standing up, feeling a bit unsteady on my feet. He turned and lead me upstairs, into the living room, the room with the phone. Some men were sitting around the coffee table playing cards. I quickened my pace, wanting to get away from them.

He lead me to the corner of the room, then put a bit of pressure on a panel, stepping to the side then taking his hand off of it, making it swing back.

He lead me up the narrow staircase, and we ended up in a corridor of doors. He showed me my new room, the door second on the left.

He unlocked the door, both the deadbolt, which had been reversed so that the keyhole was on the inside, and the regular door lock, which had also been reversed.

"You gonna try to escape?" Luca asked lazily as he opened the door.

"No. It's not worth it," I replied, scowling.

If I did have a clear chance to escape though, I wouldn't hesitate.

"Bathroom's through there." Luca stated, knocking on the door to his left, "You share it with the room on the other side of it. That room happens to be my room. Don't worry, I don't like little girls."

I'd be stupid to take his word. He said no kids, but yet here I am, locked up at God knows where.

I walked into the room, looking around. The window had been painted black, from the outside, so I couldn't see out. I could see that it was cracked a tiny bit at the bottom to let fresh air through. To the left of the window, against the left wall, next to the bathroom door was a chest of drawers and a small mirror sat on top of it, along with a hairbrush and some hair ties, and ribbon.

There was a double bed with a plain white blanket and pillows in the far corner, a bedside table next to it. A small stool sat next to the beside table, a blue, soft looking towel folded up on it.

"I have razors in the medicine cabinet behind the mirror if you want to shave, however, I'll be expecting them all back in one piece. If not, I know a few of my men think that you're pretty enough." Luca announced, making my blood run cold.

I walked into the bathroom, and found a clawfoot bathtub in the left corner closest to Luca's room, a shower to my left, and a toilet to my right. I could see a towel on the rack behind Luca's door. In between the tub and the shower was a small cupboard which I assumed was the cupboard for towels. There was a sink in the right corner, opposite the bath. On the sink, I could see female shampoo, body wash, and conditioner.

"I won't let any of my men touch you, Mrs Shelby. Unless you give me good reason to." Luca declared, coming to watch me look through the medicine cabinet and grab a razor.

"I'll leave you to it." Luca announced, turning on his heel and walking out of the bedroom, locking the door behind him.

I dropped the razor into the tiled floor. I couldn't get to the window fast enough, dropping onto my knees and trying to look out of the tiny sliver that let in fresh air. I could see rolling green fields, and a road in front of us. It was a dirt road. The sun was only beginning to rise.

"Fuck!" I hissed.

I had no idea where I was. They were smart not to let me near a clock. If I had seen one when I woke up I could figure out where I might be, and how far away I was from Birmingham.

I tried pushing the window up, to no avail. I looked around the edges of the window. I could see dried glue coming out of the joints.

Fuck me.

I decided to go have a shower, feeling utterly filthy. I probably stunk worse than Bonnie after he finished a boxing match.

I walked back into my room, and grabbed my towel, throwing it over my shoulder then heading to the dresser. I opened the top drawer. Sundresses. I shut that drawer, and looked for other clothing. The other three drawers were completely empty.

Unbelievable.

I went back to the top drawer, and found a pale yellow sundress.

"It'll have to do," I decided, heading to the bathroom.

I started the shower, letting the water heat up as I went and grabbed the brush from the dresser. I picked up the razor, and locked both doors leading to the bathroom. I grabbed the stuff off of the sink and placed it into the shower, happy that I didn't have to smell manly. It'd feel weird, especially while I was in a dress.

I stripped off and hopped into the shower, brush and razor in hand. I didn't waste any time putting the conditioner into my hair, then pulling my hair up into a bun. My hair was knotted badly, but nothing the brush and some patience wouldn't be able to fix.

I began washing myself with the body wash, then lathering it onto my legs. I picked up the razor and started carefully shaving my legs, not wanting to nick them. I hated leg hair. I couldn't stand it, and I couldn't stand other people's leg hair touching my legs. Once, I made Bonnie shave his legs so he could sleep in my bed when one of our uncles had to sleep in his vardo. I chuckled at the memory, Bonnie being livid that I 'stripped him of his God given right to hairy legs'.

Once I was done, I shaved my underarms. I hated hair there, too. It was annoying. I washed the razor, then placed it on the small ledge in front of me. I picked up my brush, and pulled my hair over my shoulder, starting to detangle my hair at the bottom, then slowly working my way up. Once it was knot free I grabbed some shampoo, then applied that, then some more conditioner.

I cleaned under my nails too, having been surprised at how quick they grew without me chewing them. I'd have to ask Ezzie to paint my nails when I saw her next. I can't paint nails, I never did it enough to gain good ability.

I turned the shower off, then grabbed my towel and dried myself quickly, wrapping the towel around my body to shield myself in case anyone came into the bathroom. I wrung my hair out in the shower, then I stepped on my dirty shirt and used it to keep the floor dry as I shuffled along to the small cupboard next to the shower. I opened it, and grabbed the purple towel on top of the pile. I wrapped my hair up in it, then grabbed my under layers, putting them on then putting on the pale yellow sundress.

I dried my brush with the blue towel, knowing I'd probably use it again soon to pull my hair back somehow. I always pulled my hair back when I was in trouble, because no hair would fall into my eyes if I had to fight.

I put my blue towel onto the towel rack on the door leading to my room, then gathered my clothes and took them back to my room. I folded them up and placed them neatly on my bed. I unwrapped my hair from its towel turban, then started towel drying it. I could smell bacon cooking. They must be starting breakfast.

Once it was no longer overly wet, and just damp, I detangled it, then parted it in the usual spot, making sure to split it all the way down to the nape of my neck, then began braiding my hair. I walked over to the dresser and got a hair band, tying off the first one then beginning the second. Once I tied off that one I grabbed two blue ribbons, tying them around the hair bands.

I heard men chattering outside, so I peeked through the crack. They were walking away from the house. I counted ten. Arthur killed two at the warehouse. That means that there's three still here with me. I heard the locks click behind me, and quickly moved to my dresser, inspecting the ribbons on it.

The door swung open, and I looked at the man carrying the tray with my food. I recognised him as one of the men playing cards at the table.

I looked at the food on the tray. Scrambled eggs and bacon with toast on a ceramic plate, and orange juice in a glass cup. I tried to fight off a chuckle. He's obviously never plated up my food before. I had plastic plates and cups, and no utensils. Luca was smart like that.

He sat it on the bed, shutting the door behind him. I looked at him, sizing him up. Yeah, I'd be able to take him if push came to shove. I didn't know if I'd be able to take the other two, though. I'd cross that bridge when I got to it. I walked over to the bed, grabbing the glass of orange juice, then retreating to my spot in front of the dresser. I drank the orange juice in one go, feeling thirsty. He chuckled.

"You look prettier with your hair up," He mused, coming to stand in front of me.

He grabbed my hair, playing with the braids, then trailed his fingers down my bare skin to find the necklace Finn had given me. He fiddled with it, and I watched him. His eyes focused on my chest. It was inevitable. I did seem to have a chest that was on the bigger side.

My breathing became shallow as he started exploring my body with his hands, rubbing his hands up and down my sides. I grasped the glass and made sure my grip on it was tight.

"Such a pretty girl," He muttered, one hand trailing up my legs, brushing under the hem of my dress and continuing to move upwards as the other moved a thin strap of my dress off of my shoulder.

He leaned down to plant a kiss on my shoulder, and I nearly got sick as I felt something poking my thigh. He stood back up, moving to take off his belt, and I swung the glass as hard as I could onto his head, making him drop to the ground with a groan of pain, disorientated. I threw the glass at the door as hard as I could, effectively shattering it. I moved quickly, kneeling down and grabbing a shard of glass, but shrieking when the man grabbed my leg and pulled me towards him. I swung my arm backwards blindly, feeling the blade drive into him him somewhere.

He screamed in pain, then went quiet. I turned around, and he was holding a hand over his eye, which was pouring blood. I could see the glass sticking out.

I quickly checked his pockets, and found a revolver, and a car key. I grabbed my folded up clothes and boots, and ran through the bathroom into Luca's room. His door handle was normal. I strained my ears for any sound. None. I opened the door and went downstairs, kicking open the panel and found that there was no one else in the room.

I ran to the open window and climbed out of it with ease, not wanting to fuck around with locks. I couldn't see any cars, but I did spot a barn. I wouldn't have been able to see it from my room. I headed toward it, hoping that there was something to help me.

I pushed open the door, and found a car. I rolled the door right open, and tried the key in the ignition. It roared to life, making me smirk. I threw my clothes in through the window, and opened the door from the inside, hopping into the drivers seat. I pulled my coat around me, hiding the bloodstains on my dress, then reversed out of the barn, taking off. I sped down the dirt road, cheering when I hit a proper road. I followed it, and noticed some people in a field up ahead. I slowed down, making the woman look up.

Her kids started whispering to each other.

"Excuse me, miss, do you know the way to Birmingham? I lost my map a while back and I think I took a wrong turn," I rambled, "I'm meant to surprise my husband for his birthday tomorrow but now I'm scared I won't make it."

The woman gave a knowing grin, and raised her arm, "Thirty minutes in that direction, love. Straight shot."

I grinned, "Thank you!"

I pulled back onto the road and continued driving, feeling my heart slow down to its normal pace.

•••

THIRD PERSON'S POV

You pulled up in front of the betting den, and got out of the car. You noticed cars belonging to Polly and Arthur sitting there. You pressed the horn repeatedly, waiting until someone came outside.

Tommy opened the door angrily, ready to shoot whoever decided to waste his time, and stopped dead in his tracks when he saw you.

"Merry Christmas," You remarked, throwing him the keys to the car and pushing past him to walk inside, taking off your coat.

"(Y/N)?" Polly asked in disbelief, you ignoring her as you walked to Finn's office.

He had gotten John's office, John's name still on the door. You knocked, and heard him yell 'fuck off'.

You swung open the door, revealing a dishevelled Finn. He looked like he hadn't slept in days. You shut the door behind you. You walked over to his desk, sitting yourself on top of it, noticing the white residue on the table top. He quickly moved to stand in front of you, inspecting you for any injuries.

"It's not my blood," You informed him, reaching up and wiping a finger on the outside of his nose, getting rid of the white powder still sat there.

"Can — Can I touch you to make sure you're real? I had dreams where you came back," Finn explained, lack of sleep and playing in the snow making the line between dream and reality near nonexistent.

You grabbed his hand, squeezing it. He let out a sigh, bringing your hand up to his mouth and placing a kiss on it. You were real. And you were back with him, and safe.

"Did anyone hurt you while you were there?" Finn asked, making you pale.

"No, but this morning one of them tried it on me. He didn't get anywhere, only groped me, but God Finn, it scared me," You admitted.

In the part of his mind that was still rational and not affected by lack of sleep and snow, he made a vow to track down the bastard and cut off his hands.

§§§

As you may be able to tell; I have a fixation with bacon and eggs lol

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 14

CONTRARY - FINN SHELBY X READER; PART 30

PUBLISHED: 02/07/2022

!!FIRST PART HERE!!

Part 1

MASTERLIST

TAGLIST

THIRD PERSON’S POV

A wail filled the master bedroom of Arrow House, and you started laughing with glee as Ada handed a pale Lizzie her newborn daughter. Polly had gotten the honour of cutting the cord.

"She's gorgeous!" You cooed from your spot by the side of the bed, Lizzie had been grasping your hand as she pushed.

"She'll be a star in the pictures," Polly commented proudly, watching as Lizzie held her daughter.

"You'll have to beat boys away from her with a bat," Ada chuckled, holding a glass of water for Lizzie.

She tilted it towards Lizzie, who gulped down the water.

"Shall I go and get Tommy and Charles?" You offered, and Lizzie shook her head.

"Not yet. I want some more time with Ruby before they come," She said, and you nodded understandingly.

Your own dad had to wait an hour to see Saoirse, and you kids had to wait thirty more minutes. You understood the need for privacy, wanting to enjoy the small moments.

You shifted from foot to foot as all of the other Shelby women had gathered around Lizzie, still giving her a bit of distance, and fawned over the baby.

Even though you had settled into your role as a Shelby lady, you still felt awkward sometimes. Like an outsider. Ada and Lizzie had grown up together, and Polly had overseen it all. Linda was also married in, but she was closer in age to the others, and she had more in common with them. You felt like you were intruding, somewhat.

"(Y/N), get up here and look at this baby, by order of the Peaky fuckin' Blinders. You're a Shelby, now act like it," Polly ordered gently, sensing your discomfort.

You looked at Lizzie, who nodded, then you gave a shy grin and treaded carefully up to stand next to Ada, who placed a hand on your shoulder. You relaxed your shoulders, no longer feeling like an intruder.

"Look at her hair," Ada said, chuckling, and you started chuckling too.

Ruby had a head full of brown hair, hair which would soon most likely smell like the baby soap that you had put into the bath at Polly's orders.

"You hungry, Lizzie?" You asked as she adjusted the blanket covering Ruby, "I'll grab you something from the kitchen if you want."

"A sandwich would be nice — Ham and pickles, please," She requested, and you nodded, turning on your heel and walking away.

"The jar with the green lid, right?" You questioned as you put your hand on the door handle, and Lizzie said words of affirmation.

"Tell Tommy that the baby's healthy, but I want a bit more time with her," Lizzie said, and you nodded once more.

You twisted the door handle and opened it, hurrying down to the kitchens. Tommy and Charles were already there, Charles eating chocolate ice cream. It had gotten more on his face than anything else.

"(Y/N), how's Lizzie?" Tommy asked, and you could hear the worried tone in his voice.

"Is my little sister here yet?" Charles added, and you chuckled as you gathered the ingredients to make Lizzie her sandwich.

"Lizzie's fine, the baby's fine, both healthy, but Lizzie wants a bit more time with sissy before you two go in," You informed the pair as you started buttering the bread.

Tommy nodded but Charles whined, and Tommy ruffled his son's hair. The phone ring and Tommy picked it up, answering with a 'hello?'

"It's for you," Tommy announced, handing the phone to you.

You traded him the knife for the phone, telling him to put the pickles on, and he did so, spreading it right out to the edges, just as his wife liked them, then cut the crusts off, just like Lizzie liked them.

"(Y/N) Shelby here," You said cheerily into the receiver.

"Aunt (Y/N)! Mum asked me to ring you, she's just had George." A voice that I quickly identified as Katie's said.

"Oh, that's wonderful! Tell her I said congratulations!" You said as Tommy eyed you with curiosity.

"I will — She said she'd enjoy a visit from you and Uncle Finny — she'll send Trevor to come get you when she feels like visitors," Katie informed you, and you nodded, momentarily forgetting that she couldn't see you.

"Erm, that will be great." You said, bouncing on your heels, feeling overjoyed.

"I've got to go now, see you later Aunty." Katie said, and you replied with a 'see you, my dear', then hung up.

"Katie. Telling me her brother's here." You told Tommy somewhat stiffly.

READER’S POV

Esme had allowed Finn and I to update the rest of the Shelby family about her and her kids, but only what she said we could tell them. We knew a lot more. I think it ate Finn up inside, sometimes. I think, if I was in Finn's position, I wouldn't be able to open my mouth without information about Katie's new dress or Lockie's skills with soccer or Colin's knowledge of plants spilling out.

Ada soon entered the room, her heels clicking against the floor bringing me back to reality.

"Oh fuck, I forgot about her sandwich — Katie called to say that Esme had the bub, sorry," I muttered, and Ada nodded, reaching out to grab the plate that held the sandwich.

"She said you can go and see the baby. She's ready for you now." She said as she picked up the plate, and Tommy wasted no time picking Charles up and sitting him on his hip, and walking to the bedroom.

"I'll be back up in a minute," I mumbled, sitting down in a chair, and Ada hummed as she spun on her heel and went.

I felt sixteen. Really felt it, right down in my bones. Everyone was getting older. I'm growing up. But everyone else is moving forward, and I'm still stuck in the same place, doing the same song and dance with Finn.

Someone entered the kitchen, making me look up from the spot on the floor I had been staring at. Frances, followed by Finn.

"Hi," I said quietly, still feeling a bit out of it.

"You alright, love?" Finn asked softly, crossing the room and coming to kneel in front of me.

"Just — feel old," I replied, then chuckled humourlessly.

Finn nodded in understanding then placed his hand along the back of my neck, leaning up and pressing his lips to my forehead. I shut my eyes and focused on the sensation, trying to clear my head of all the other thoughts.

"Let's go see Tommy and Lizzie, aye?" Finn suggested, standing back up and stretching out a hand for me to take.

I took it and he helped me stand up, then continued holding my hand as we walked through the hallways, squeezing it thrice.

"I'm going to figure out what that means one of these days," I decided, making him laugh.

"I hope it's soon." He replied, a small grin on his face.

We walked in silence until we reached the master bedroom, where Finn knocked on the door. Polly answered it, and let us in.

"We can come back when there's less people, if you want, Lizzie," Finn offered, but Lizzie shook her head, making us cross the room.

Lizzie was laid in the middle of the bed, Tommy on her left, and Charles on her right. Ruby was sound asleep on her chest, still wrapped in her pink blanket.

"We've got something to tell you and (Y/N)," Lizzie said, making my eyebrow cock up.

Lizzie looked up at Tommy, and nodded. He turned to us, and cleared his throat.

"We want you, Finn, and you, (Y/N), to be Ruby's godparents." Tommy announced, making my breath catch in my throat momentarily.

"Really?" Finn asked quietly, sounding like he might cry.

I looked up at my husband, who was rapidly blinking, trying to get rid of tears.

"Really," Lizzie confirmed, smiling softly.

"Thank you, it's an honour, honestly," I murmured, now feeling sixteen and a bit once more.

Lizzie just grinned in reply as I laid my head on Finn's shoulder.

•••

Finn and I drove home from our date. I watched his hand as it gripped the wheel, the other one sitting on my knee. He had gotten us tickets to see 'The Nutcracker', then took me to some fancy restaurant that I couldn't remember the name of, even if my life depended on it. I was still running on the high

We had left Saoirse with Bonnie. Finn had dropped her off at the door; Bonnie, along with Ezzie and Isiah, lived in Finn's old house on Watery Lane.

Finn had told me that Bonnie was moving into an apartment in Artillery Square sometime soon, which surprised me. Bonnie had never mentioned it before. I didn't talk to him much, anyway, after the last time we had all stayed out at camp together.

It hurt me not to talk to him. We had shared a vardo when I first moved in with Dad, he knew me like the back of my hand. I was close to Ezzie and Saoirse, but we were closest in age. When we were growing up, Ezzie was always off doing big girl things and Saoirse was too little to play with us, leaving us to entertain each other. He was three years my senior, but he always let me follow him as if we were the same age.

He was the one who held me after I had nightmares when I didn't want to walk to dad's caravan, who filled in the gaps of my knowledge of Shelta, Romani, and Rokka, who won me Tuck in the fairground that night, the one who fought Dad tooth and nail for me to not get married.

He was my brother, through and through.

And here I was avoiding him like the plague.

Finn pulled up in front of the house, and stopped the car, then got out and walked up to the door, knocking on it. I made a split second decision and got out of the car, jogging up to the door in my heels.

Isiah opened the door, and grinned, letting us in.

"She's up in the upstairs spare room, want a cup of tea before you leave?" Isiah asked, and I looked at Finn who nodded.

"Please," I replied, kicking off my heels and heading upstairs, going to find my older sister.

I heard Isiah potter around the kitchen and continue talking to Finn. I knocked on the first door on my right. The door opened, and there was Ezzie, hair damp, most likely fresh out of the shower.

"Come tell me how your date went," She commanded, ushering me into her bedroom.

I sat on the stool at her vanity whilst she sat on her bed.

"It was amazing. I'd sell my left tit to do it all again," I admitted, making her squeal and clap, "We went to the ballet, The Nutcracker, then we went to some fancy restaurant for dinner."

"Oh, that sounds amazing! Did you kiss?" She inquired, and I shook my head, making her groan.

"I know, it's killing me — we haven't kissed since our wedding!" I grumbled, making her look at me with sympathy in her eyes.

"We're taking it slow, but fucking hell, Dad and Polly move faster than us," I complained, making her cackle.

I was also scared to kiss Finn — I had been wanting it so much I wouldn't know what to do with myself when we finally did kiss.

A knock sounded on the door, Ezzie calling out 'come in!', then in came Isiah and Finn, each holding a tray with cups of tea and biscuits on them. As they sat them down on the king sized bed, I noticed that Isiah had three cups on his tray.

"Is Bonnie in?" I questioned, looking over at Ezzie, who nodded, looking unsure of herself.

"I'll go tell him his tea is ready," I announced, making Ezzie begin to stand up as well.

"Ez, we'll be fine," I reassured her as I crossed the room, pecking my husband on the cheek as I passed him, making him blush.

I walked across the hall and knocked on the bedroom door in a particular manner, letting Bonnie know it was me. I stood in the hallway for a few beats, and Bonnie opened the door. He looked just as bad as I felt.

He opened his arms for a hug and I didn't hesitate to lean into his embrace, wrapping my own arms around my brother.

"I'm sorry, Bee, I didn't mean it, I was just cross and you know how I get when I'm cross," Bonnie apologised, and I nodded.

He was terrible when he got mad. His words were as sharp as knives, and they left wounds just like knives, but the ones they left weren't ones you bled from.

"It's okay, Bon," I soothed, my words slightly muffled by his chest.

"It's not okay, I knew what those words meant to you and I still called you them," Bonnie said, and I could hear him tearing up.

I was on the verge of tears, myself. In all of our years knowing each other, this was our first proper fight.

I stepped back, out of the hug.

"As long as you don't call me them again we'll be fine," I informed him, making him nod, although I knew he wasn't planning on it.

"Your tea is ready, by the way," I added as an afterthought, and lead him back to Ezzie and Isiah's room.

We entered the room, and took spots on the bed, Finn and I cuddled up down at the foot end, in the corner next to the wall, Bonnie sitting with his legs crossed in the middle of the bed, against the wall, and Isiah and Ezzie at the head of the bed, lazing against each other.

We sat there and chatted for ages after we finished our cups of tea and biscuits, not really wanting to leave. The cup of tea made me sleepy, too. I laid my head against Finn and yawned.

"Tired, love?" Finn asked, sounding very much tired himself.

I hummed in agreement, reaching up and undoing my hair. Finn started helping me. I had it up in a crown braid for tonight. I felt very much like a Princess with the hairstyle, and the way Finn treated me tonight.

"You can stay here, in the downstairs spare room if you like," Isiah offered, and I looked at Finn, who nodded.

"Fuck, we might turn in now, I can barely keep my eyes open," Finn said, yawning and bringing a hand up to rub his eyes.

I crawled off of the bed and stood up on unsteady feet, Finn doing the same.

"Goodnight," I threw over my shoulder as I left the room.

I headed to Saoirse's room, Finn hot on my tail. I opened the door quietly, and peeked in. She was sound asleep, Rosie curled up with her. I 'awwed' at the sight and moved so Finn could see. He chuckled once he saw, then shut the door quietly. Finn grabbed my hand and lead me down the stairs, to the spare bedroom, the only downstairs bedroom.

Once Finn closed the door I stripped down to my underclothes, and crawled onto the bed, deciding to sit for a bit, too lazy to get under the covers just yet, Finn doing the same.

"Finn," I started, making him hum and look at me.

"Thank you for tonight. I had a great time," I admitted, looking him in the eyes.

"I did too." Finn replied softly, reaching up and tracing his finger along my cheekbone.

I looked at my husband; properly looked at him. I took notice of his curls that he didn't gel back for once, his freckles spreading across his face, and the scar just under his lip. I found my eyes drifting back to his lips. I reached up and ran a finger along his bottom lip, unable to resist myself. It was soft.

"(Y/N)," Finn said softly, and I could hear the desperation in his tone.

"I know," I murmured, and he leaned back, making me withdraw my touch.

I could've whined at the lack of contact, but my heart skipped a beat as he started leaning in, placing a hand on the side of my neck as he did so.

"Finn," I mumbled, leaning out of his grip and looking away, cheeks burning, "Not ready yet."

"It's alright," He cooed as I looked back at him, and I gave a soft smile, then started pulling back the covers, slipping under them, getting comfortable with him.

I was ready to kiss him, but I wasn't ready for everything that came after. If we kissed, that would lead to more intimacy, and not just the sexual kind. We'd learn to love each other more, to get to know each other more. My family knew me, but they didn't really know me. I was scared to let anyone really know me. It was scary, being known. Nearly as scary as being loved. Now, as I laid next to Finn and thought about it, I think it was more scary to love someone than to be loved.

§§§

AHHHHH y'all I am back in business with frequent updates lol

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I am so excited for next chapter you guys will love it (I hope)

Love y'all ❤️

- Sunflower x

NEXT PART

Part 31

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