"That sounds lovely."
*•*
¡ Mature content ahead!
First came the clothes.
Chest to chest. The fingers of a bookmaker slowly but very well expertly undid the tin buttons of the designers blouse. Their eyes stayed glued upon one another's in silence as he continued the action of removing the cotton piece down her arms. A shiver ran down the Morelli woman's spine at the feel of his touch traveling down her bare skin until the soft sound of the top hitting the floor met their ears in the quiet room.
The strap of her cream colored brassiere twiddled between the fingers of the Shelby man. The silky fabric still under his touch as he trailed a finger down the side of the garment, tracing her ribs, caressing her waist then to her hip until his hand stopped at the band of her skirt. His touch was deadly. Like the harsh winds on the pacific during a storm, she was sure she'd drown.
Looking up from where his hand laid, he met the familiar pair of hazel eyes. Showing no signs of second thoughts or hesitation, Leticia took a short step closer raising her hands to the collar of his shirt. Unbuttoning the long sleeve, she tucked it out of his trousers before tugging it off with swift help from Thomas. Bringing her ring covered fingers to his shoulders, she dragged them down the planes of his pecs to his toned stomach as her eyes took in the sight before her with a certain delicacy. One touch was all it took. Like as if reaching into his very being, she grasped his soul, calming the aura while burning her name sneakily deep within.
Grasping her hands that trailed his chest, he guided her much smaller ones to wrap around his neck, his rough ones then making way to her skirt. Drawing the zipper down, his hands slipped inside the bottoms sliding his way to the back until the fabric dropped down her legs.
Lettie reached up to her hair to pull the pin-like needle out as she took a step forward to walk over her brown skirt making Tommy take a step back. Walking forwards some more, Thomas followed her footsteps steadily until his bottom hit the edge of the wooden dresser. Leaning in, she set her needle on the vanity. Two hands cupped her face after, leading the curly haired woman into a needy kiss. As if her velvety fingers were paintbrushes, she painted her way up his chest and to his neck, grasping the back of it with just as much urgency. Their lips were fiery, the lust made a path through their blazing veins greedily. It seemed Thomas's feet had a mind of its own as he walked Lettie backwards while she brought her hands down to slowly, but surely undo his belt.
Yanking the belt out of the loops, she worked her way to his zipper, stopping momentarily due to Tommy angling his head to delve deeper into her mouth skillfully. A breathless hum vibrated up her vocal chords, pushing forwards into his chest to meet the same intensity. Dragging the zipper down finally, she obliviously curled her tongue tantalizingly causing Thomas to thunder an animalistic sound in the hot room. The Shelby man's movements picked up in pace as he took off his trousers the rest of the way wanting the hazel eyed beauty closer in every way as the world would see fit.
Picking her up hastily by her thighs, he laid her on the end of the bed. Laying down flatly on her back, her brunette hair framed around her in a pool of curls. Taking his time with gazing at her, Tommy ran his thumb over his mouth. He grew positive he'd be sinning tonight.
Feeling the effects of being hot and bothered, she impatiently sat back up to wrap her hand around his neck. Leticia pulled him to her lips as she fell right back to the bed, this time pulling him with her. Hovering over her, his plump lips left open mouth kisses on her neck. Sucking the skin mercilessly, his hand trailed up her side, slipping under her back. Closing her eyes, Leticia arched her back making an accessible trail for the blue eyed man to unclip her strap. The release of the tightness of the brassiere felt good against her hot skin. Pulling the straps over her shoulder, the Morelli woman threw the garment somewhere in the room carelessly.
Thomas dragged his lips down the valley of her breasts. The flames that were his lips, created a fire that flared past her skin and to her very bones, he too engraving his name. He was kissing the body of a goddess, his very own Aphrodite was in his reach. An airy sigh flowed out of her mouth, the sound quickly becoming his favorite song.
Making his way down her silky stomach, his tongue took a sneak peak on the soft skin causing a knot to form in the pit of her belly making her wiggle with pleasure. Trailing further down, he hooked his fingers around the band of her lace knickers as she gripped the sheets tightly with a hasty thrill. Meeting his eyes, she watched as he pulled them down painfully slow, soon after the touch of a kiss being placed near a small birthmark on her hip was felt. Once they were entirely off, she sat up, hooking her legs around his waist. Toying with the top of his underpants, she looked up with low eyelids trailing a finger over his v-line and said with a whisper, "My turn."
The erotic look Tommy possessed made Lettie bite her lip as she slipped her hands into the back of his undergarment. Her hands glided over his bottom as she moved the fabric down. Leaning forward, she connected her lips to his torso, feeling the clench of his stomach got her giddy with small satisfaction.
Inclining down to align with her face, he got closer until she hit the covers, the same position of him hovering over her taking place. Reattaching his lips to hers, the heated kiss picked up where it left off. Placing her hands on his bicep, she squeezed lightly, feeling the flex of his muscles twitch at her mere touch. Panting heavily, the kiss became more hungry as the tension built. Biting on his bottom lip, she felt Tommy's hand travel to her left knee pulling it up and over his lower back, shortly after releasing his hold from the locked placement of their lips.
Blue eyes met hazel ones.
Gently cradling her face with his right hand, he ran a thumb over her cheek affectionately, his stare displaying vulnerability that made Lettie turn her head to lay a kiss upon his palm. Seeing the question he wanted to ask, she answered with wholehearted truth. She didn't need to say anything, they read each other perfectly. Nodding her head softly, she ran a hand up his back like a sharpened blade to a stone. Reattaching their swollen lips, all worries were forgotten as she felt him enter in all his glory.
This euphoric feeling was like no other. The gasp that left her lips was foreign to her own ears. Breaking free from the sloppy kiss with parted lips, her head leaned back into the duvet in ecstasy. Diving his head into the crook of her neck, the even strokes became relentless. Swallowing her quiet moans by latching her teeth onto his tightened shoulder, Thomas raised her knee to her chest to gain better access to a new feeling that they weren't prepared for. Thrusting deeper, Thomas groaned at the sound of her breathless gasps and the clenching of her nails dragging down his back.
Lifting his head from her neck, his ice blue eyes stared mesmerized at the sight of the hazel eyed beauty panting heavily with her eyes shut shielding him away from the golden irises that he'd grown to adore. Slowing his strokes, he ordered huskily, "Open your eyes," his lips grazing her earlobe, the heat from his breath hitting her skin caused another pleasurable gasp to leave her mouth. Trailing his lips from her ear then across her cheek he whispered with a strained voice, continuing his thrusts with steady movements that drove both of them into a higher level of life, "Open for me, Lettie."
Opening her eyelids with the best strength she could, she tried quieting her pants. Her hot breath hit the side of Thomas's face, his breaths as well becoming uneven with desire. Their eyes once again connected, the intimacy with watching one another's faces twist in pleasure was a sight to behold. Wrapping both slim legs around his waist, Lettie tried holding on for dear life as his hand trekked it's way to the sensitive flesh of her chest. Giving each breast his undivided attention, her ankles locked around his back, Tommy's hips bucking as the build got more bothersome to the core.
Feeling the throbbing ache build, the Morelli woman set her hands on Thomas's shoulders, using her legs to flip them over. His hands instantly went to her hips, guiding their synchronized movements effortlessly. Rocking her body back and forth in a bewitching rhythm, the action mimicked the glide of a snake moving through the tall grass hypnotizing the hawks flying above. Bending down to his chest, her red lips traced over his tattoo that inked over his heart. The seductive temptress that graced Thomas's sight with sweaty skin and wild curls swooped to the side, made him want to unleash all things unholy that went through his mind as she placed open mouth kisses over his very flaws.
Fisting her hair into his hand, he lifted her face to connect with his for the fifth time that night. Sitting up without breaking the kiss, their teeth clashed wickedly as if they've been starved for a millennium. Clenching her legs to his sides, she arched her back in absolute bliss with her arms hanging around his neck loosely, creating the perfect angle for Thomas to attach his lips to her bare, silky skin. He devoured her. Leaving small live marks to align her chest with every suck and pull, he created art. The Shelby man designed a masterpiece he was happy to be the only one to see.
Leticia's moans got louder in range as the pull of her stomach came to its explosive end. Rocking faster to get the release she had been craving, her left hand gripped the nape of his neck while the other tightfisted at the top of his hair, diving her fingers into the dark tresses feverishly. Both of their breathing became erratic, Tommy's rough hands still clenching onto the curly haired woman's waist, his mouth parting in pleasure. This was a high that neither had experienced. The Morelli woman and Shelby man didn't know what to expect, but whatever met them on the other end was sure to be a feverish treat.
Pressing their foreheads together, the sweat on their face glistened in the dim lit room, the rising of the moon creating a halo around them. Their breaths mingled as one. Lettie quickly ground her hips, her legs shaking from the momentum. Running a hand through Thomas's hair, she panted with a gasp tilting her head up to face the ceiling with a cloudy sight from the heat pulsating throughout her shell. Bringing her forehead back to his, she closed her eyes as she breathlessly whispered, "Tommy..."
A liberated groan slash growl crawled up his throat as his lips met her shoulder with heavy puffs, his voice taking on a soothing tone, "I know," he felt it as well, the tension that waited to be let out overwhelmed them both completely. A few more hearty thrusts and finally the release was given. Their lips stayed within reach as they ghosted over each other lightly. Leticia's heavy breathing equaled to the deep breaths of Thomas's, either face contorting into one of satisfied relief.
Resting her knees on either side of Tommy's body now, she feels his fingers move the stray curls that were stuck to her face and neck. Bringing a hand to his neck, her pants decrease, their heads leaning in to desperately get one last kiss in. Weaving his hands down her waist length hair, he grabbed her hips to situate her beside him. Plopping her head back onto a plush pillow, she wraps the cotton sheets over her body. Feeling the bed dip to her right, she turned her head to see Tommy already looking at her. Bringing her hand closest to him, she tenderly stroked his cheek with a grin. A tilt of his own lips surfaced, an honest feeling of happiness taking over his entire being in this very moment. What a beautiful picture it was.
Pulling her into him, Lettie laid her head over his tattoo. The rise and fall of his chest, lulled her to sleep, slowly halting her movements of trailing his stomach with her index. Their legs remained entwined, both layers of hot skin still trying to cool itself from their previous activities. His fingers that drew circles on her hip relaxed her. Something amorous was hatched that moonlit night.
Their souls had connected and they didn't even know it. The angels up above had waited for the reunion of the two lost souls. If only the joyous cheers were heard, for the hearts were finally mending.
***********
It was the middle of the night. The stars were twinkling amongst the illuminate moon. The streets of Small Heath were deadly silent, everyone sheltered in their homes fast asleep.
The candle lit room provided just the right amount of light to see against the shadows in the dark. A lone figure stood wrapped in a blanket gazing out the window, a tranquil feeling engulfing her as she stared at the moon and her starry children.
Thomas laid in the bed, his eyes watching her back. He had been dozing on and off the whole night which is why he had decided to wake up fully, immediately noticing the other side of the bed was empty from her presence.
Hearing some rustling behind her, Lettie kept her grey eyes out the window. A few seconds later she felt an arm dangle around her shoulder, a light kiss being placed on the side of her neck. The smell of cigarette smoke invaded her nostrils, the scent driving her to fiend for a puff.
Bringing the cig to his lips, Tommy inhaled the tobacco before laying his chin upon her shoulder, "Couldn't sleep?"
Leaning her head back against his shoulder, she hummed, "Aye," closing her eyes, she released a dramatic sigh, "Your snoring kept me up." Tightening his hold on her waist, he caused a small laugh to bubble up her throat.
Extending the arm that sat around her shoulder, she took the white stick between her own fingers. Inhaling the smoke, the smoky swirls enveloped her lungs, relaxing her muscles. Swaying just the slightest, the Morelli woman voiced aloud, "When the moon is it at its highest peak, I seem to wake up from my slumber," the soft sound of her voice became a lullaby to him as he too stared out into the midnight grey sky, "Always concluded that it was my Gypsy roots calling out into the wild night. Now I'm starting to think it may just be insomnia knocking at my door."
Leticia brought the lit cigarette up to his lips. Getting his hit off of it, she returned it back to her lips in silence. The deep sound of the Shelby man's voice vibrated through her body, him thinking of the times he had woken her up from her sleep so that they could discuss matters, "So, you're a night owl. And here I thought beauty rest was substantial in your daily routines."
A grin overtook her mouth at his words, returning the white stick to him, she laid her hands upon his forearm that wrapped around her, "I was born in the nighttide. My grandmama used to say the gods sent an angel from la luna in the dark hours of my mother's childbirth," Tommy listened intently, every story she told was captivating. He always had the urge to want to learn more of the mysterious Morelli woman.
A memory resurfaced as her head relaxed more into his shoulder, "She'd speak fondly of the tale Il sole e la luna," in a delicate whisper she continued, "The story goes that the sun loved the moon so much he died every night to let her breathe."
Exhaling the smoke from his lips, the whirl of chemicals blocked their sight momentarily, "That's-"
"Devastating?" Leticia butted in before he could. Nodding her head, her eyes stayed locked on the glowing moon, "Yes, devastating."
Turning her head just the slightest to gaze at the side of his face, she muttered with a hint of humor, "Like every Shakespearean story I've read."
Exhaling a breathy sound that was close to a chuckle, he hummed, "Aye."
Another silence enveloped the room. This was comfortable. The moments they've shared have become precious and it was times they never took for granted. Finding peace in their hectic lives was a rare finding to come upon, so Thomas took any chance that he could get. He wouldn't let it escape him, he wouldn't allow it.
Twirling her around until she faced him, he admired her features. Furrowing her brows, she brought her hand up his chest observing the expression on his face, observing the debate going on in his head. So, she waited for him to speak.
Cupping her face, the almost done cigarette dangled between his fingers still. Running his thumb over her cheek making sure to bypass the healing cut, he whispered, "I want you to help me," intently staring into her silver eyes, he moved her curls away to get a better view of her natural beauty, "Will you help me, love?"
Their Romani language chanted smoothly within the tiny distance between them. Tilting her head slightly, she replied in her mother tongue, "With business?"
Nodding his head, he pulled her face closer until their noses brushed each other, their eyes never straying, "With business, with life. Fucking everything," his words were genuine. He'd never been more honest in his life, in the past year she had dug her way deep into his very being without him knowing it, "In the most unexpected times, there you were. You were always there," her mouth trembled, his words striking her chest cavity with a pounding vitality. She was speechless, and she wasn't very evasive...ever. Her silence enabled Thomas to set free his thoughts, "We found each other," delving his fingers into her hair, he enunciated every word, "I found you."
Clinging to his arms that held her face, her watery eyes searched his own intensely, "Tommy..."
Placing his forehead against hers, he whispered strongly, "By my side," the urge to close his eyes when her hand came in contact with his cheek was irrepressible, "Side by side. That's how we'll do things."
Caressing his chin faintly, she leaned forward to press a tender kiss on his jaw. Craning her head to gaze at him once more, Leticia was met with his eyes closed, "You have me, Thomas."
After a passing moment with their foreheads pressed together, the Morelli woman leaned back to take the still lit cigarette out of his hand. Placing it down on the windowsill, she turned back to him, her arms wrapping around his neck. The action caused the blanket to fall and pool at her feet. Inching closer, their hungry lips lightly touched with a whisper of a touch. Not being able to stay one second further away, Lettie closed the distance, Tommy reciprocating the same urgency. This kiss was different.
It created butterflies in the pit of her stomach. Their hearts were pouring into the embrace, a tingle ran through her veins as if all the words he wanted to say spewed into her soul. 'Oh, Tommy, you're not alone' she wanted to say so she did just that by pushing forward to dominate his caresses. And he heard her just fine.
Taking her hand into his own, the Shelby man walked back to the bed mindlessly, his whole being only focused on the beauty held in his grasp. Laying down gently, he followed suit. Covering themselves up with the blanket, she scooted closer to Tommy, half of her body cuddling ontop of him. Laying his chin on her head, his hand massaged her thigh up and down. Silence was what met the room for a few minutes, the feeling of Lettie's fingers caressing his stomach caused a small sigh to leave his lips. Until the realization dawned on him, "I don't hear the shovels."
Trailing the tattoo on his chest that reminded her of the sun, she listened to him talk of his troubles, "It's quiet. For the first time since the war, the shovels aren't near."
Propping her chin on his chest, she placed a kiss on the soft skin letting him know she was here with him. She couldn't even imagine the horror that strangled his mind with every second, especially when at night. When everything is finally quiet.
Moments later she felt his chest even out to slow and steady breaths. That night she made a promise. She'd be there for him whenever he needed her. Thomas Shelby had her heart and that thought alone frightened and excited her.
Listening to his heartbeat, her eyes slowly closed tiredly. A Morelli and a Shelby finally got the rest they have been deprived of. Finally, their souls could rejuvenate. Their beings were reborn the next morning, physically, mentally, and emotionally. But as we know, it never lasts for the ones who live challenging lives. Especially ones filled with crime and lies.
***********
Today was the day. Black Star Day had crept up on the Shelby family quicker than they had expected. once more, men will shed blood whether if it will be their own or another's. Hopefully it will be the last, but the probing thought weighed heavy in their hearts that that was untrue.
The Morelli woman was getting ready for the day. Many doubts, fear, and determination plagued her mind. Who would she lose today? Would it be the Shelby men that had grown close to her heart? Who would they all lose today?
Leticia had been in her office for a total of three hours. After an interesting conversation with Kennedy about staying the night at her house with Thomas, let's just say the nineteen year old wasn't too keen on the idea of what possibly took place under her roof. But all in all, she was happy for Lettie, Kennedy believed she deserved to finally have that connection with someone. Even though others weren't so quick to agree on the matter- mainly the one who voiced his concerns more publicly.
Dropping her pen on the desk, she decided to take a break and stretch for a moment before resuming. Walking over to her cart, Lettie poured herself a drink. Looking up at that moment with the glass in her hand, she saw a quick figure walk passed her office she hadn't seen at all today yet. Calling out to them quickly, she walked to the entrance of the door, "Ossie!"
Watching as his steps halted abruptly, she waited, observing how he didn't turn around right away as if hesitant. After another passing a second, he pivoted on his heel, the grin that adorned his mouth plastered on falsely, "Hey, Lettie."
Leaning her side on the wood of the door, she furrowed his brows, curious as to why he was acting strangely, "Are you all right?"
"Peachy," he nodded with his usual grin but it was different. Leticia noticed it seemed much forced than normal. Like as if seeing the wheels grinding in her head, he cleared his throat before rushing out, "Did you need something?"
Catching the quick movement of his fingers that twitched near his side, he swiftly tucked his hand in his trouser pockets trying to not draw suspicion. He was nervous, but for what, Leticia didn't know.
Looking to the papers he held in his other hand, she gestured to them, "You headed somewhere? You look like you're in a hurry."
Looking down to the papers in his hand, he raised them in the air with a humored sigh, "Yes, actually," lifting his pocket watch to his line of vision, he huffed, "Right now. If I don't leave now, I'll surely be late."
"Is it buyers?" The Morelli woman asked trying to get some real answers before he left.
Nodding his head once, he rushed out, "Yes, very important buyers. I hate to leave so unexpectedly, but I must make haste."
"Okay. Be-" before she could even leave him with parting words, he turned around rapidly and made his way out of the back room. Furrowing her brows once more, she became confused at his odd behavior, "Careful."
Standing at the door for a moment, she then made her way back to her desk to sit down. Taking a sip of her drink, she picked up her pen and began her previous duties. Writing only a couple words in, a knock sounded on her door lightly. Glancing up, she saw Kennedy enter with a stack of folders cradled in her arms, "Here are the papers you asked for for last weeks disbursements."
Heaving a heavy sigh, Lettie continued the last writings of the document she was looking over currently. Pushing that paperwork to the side, she grabbed the first folder from the pile, "Thank you, Ken."
Nodding her head, the young woman then turned to make her way back to her desk. Before she could exit, Lettie called her back, "Have a seat for a moment."
Kennedy slowly made her way to the front of her bosses desk. Staying silent, she waited, curious as to why she was called back.
Leticia looked up from the folder catching eyes with the younger woman. A slow grin overtook the curly haired brunettes lips, "I'm proud of you."
Kennedy sat up straighter in her seat, a warmth spreading through her chest at the words that left Lettie's lips. Seeing as the older woman before her had more to say, she stayed quiet for now. Leaning forward in her seat, Leticia continued, "I haven't properly voiced my gratitude. For the added success you have brought outside of this business," Ken knew she was referring to the business she had with the Shelby's, she played a key part in the whole ordeal, "And for also slaying your demons," hearing the hint to her metaphor, the younger woman raised her head higher as the grin stayed glued to Lettie's lips with confidence, "I'm proud of you."
Kennedy's lips quirked in the cutest of smiles at the compliment. Finally, hearing words that made her feel worthy. Made her feel like she had done good in this world. To hear it from a woman she held so highly in her life, she felt pride.
Shaking her head lightly, Ken voiced emotionally, "All because of you. You gave me a chance."
Leticia let out a sound of disagreement, "No, I did nothing," her hazel eyes pierced through to the woman across from her, "All I did was give you a little push. You did the rest."
Next thing she knew, Kennedy had her arms wrapped tightly around her in an embrace. A few seconds passed, the shock wearing off before Lettie returned the embrace. Leaning her cheek on her shoulder, the younger woman whispered, "Thank you," tightening her arms, she rasped out, "Truly."
Rubbing her back softly, Lettie squeezed just as tight back. Another second passed before they both retreated from the hug. Kennedy gave a last happy smile before making her way to the door again. After glancing at her papers, the Morelli woman remembered the strange occurrence she had with her closest friend, "Before you leave," turning her head to face Lettie, Kennedy laid her hand on the edge of the doorway to halt her steps, "Have you noticed anything different with Ossie?"
Kennedy took a moment to think before her face scrunched up after thinking of a memory, "Funny you ask. He's been coming in late for the past couple of days. I just dwindled it down to him waking up late," finishing her sentence, she then met Lettie's eyes with worry, "Why? Is something the matter?"
Not wanting to cause any worry, Leticia shook her head quickly, "Nothing to fret over. Probably just stress. I'll speak to him later, I suppose."
Nodding her head, Kennedy gave one last glance before making her way back to her desk this time.
The Morelli woman returned her gaze back to the piling folders before beginning. Better to start now and be over with it, she thought as she trained her eyes on the words and numbers in front of her.
The ring of the bell above the door echoed in the building causing every head to turn and see who had entered. A certain Shelby man walked his way through the shop, both hands in his trouser pants as he passed the counter, not even sparing a glance at Nina or Florence who stood behind the counter.
The two women shared a confused glance, too stunned at seeing a Shelby in Bellezza Nera. His figure alone causing the women to freeze, instantly struck with intimidation from his presence. Keeping their eyes trained on him to see what he'd do next, they grew even more perplexed when they saw him move the curtain that blocked their hidden door.
Raising his knuckles to the door, Nina and Florence grew more curious than ever when he did the signature knock with exuding confidence. Like as if it was second nature. A few seconds later, the door opened to reveal Don who stood in front of the door with crossed arms. Although the burly man was quite intimidating in size, Thomas didn't show any ounce of a reaction, "You must be Don," the large man didn't reply, his stare burning holes through to the blue eyed devil.
Seeing as this might be more difficult, Tommy shifted in annoyance, the calm aura he possessed never straying, "I'm here to see, Miss Morelli."
"Under what circumstances?" Don grunted, his stance of blocking the door never faltering.
Growing antsy at having to wait and not just walk in so he can continue his day, Thomas shrugged, his voice holding malice. He had a busy day ahead of him, "Take a guess."
The sardonic tone of his words made a fire burn in Don's eyes, their encounter having caught Kennedy's attention from her desk. Cursing under her breath, she quickly made her way to the door placing a hand on the burly man's arm, "It's all right, Donny. He's here for a meeting with the boss."
Don glared strongly, his stance still tense but he moved to the side any way, only due to the younger woman's words. Patting the tense man's arm, Ken then turned to Thomas with a smile, "Follow me, Mister Shelby."
Allowing Tommy to step passed the threshold, the Shelby man didn't even spare a last glance at the taller man. Kennedy poked her head out the door, looking to the two stunned women behind the counter in question. The only response she got was a shrug from Florence and an innocent raise of the hands from Nina, the two Sirens too surprised to have done anything.
Rolling her eyes, Ken poked her head back in leading the way to the Morelli woman's office. Even though he knew where it was, he still followed politely. Pointing to the door in front of them, Kennedy spoke softly, "She's in there, Mister Shelby."
Nodding his head in thanks, he walked to stand in front of the door, leaning his shoulder on the wall. Not having noticed his presence, Tommy stood watching her concentrate on the work in front of her, not wanting to draw attention to him just yet. As he gazed at her sitting behind her desk, she wrote diligently. Her hair was fully pinned to the back of her head, the stray curls from her bangs hung over her forehead. Her coat removed from her figure exposing her white blouse, he couldn't see her lower half but he could guess she wore a skirt, most likely a black one.
Deciding to not knock, he instead spoke up which in turn gave her a little startle breaking her from her concentration, "No rest for the wicked, eh?"
Lifting her head to meet eyes with the man standing in the doorway, she caught his stare on the piles of folders, immediately knowing what he was referring to. Tilting her head, she joked lightly, "What do you know about wicked?"
Breathing out of his nose in a short chuckle, he nodded to her figure sitting in the chair, "No more than you do, I'm sure."
Raising her eyebrows in amusement, she looked back down to the papers in front of her.
The Shelby man and the Morelli woman hadn't seen each other since their night spent together and that was a few days ago. With him preparing for Black Star Day and Lettie trying to get her medicinal business back in order, they hadn't had the time to converse. Right now, to Tommy, she was a sight for sore eyes.
Leaning off of the wall, Thomas walked past the threshold and turned to close the door behind him blocking the two of them off from the prying eyes and ears in the rest of the building. Walking over to a seat in front of her desk, his eyes never broke from her being as she finished the last of her work before pushing the cream folder aside. Dropping her pen, she leaned back in her chair watching Thomas take a seat before pulling out his pack of white sticks.
Setting one in the corner of his mouth, he held out his arm for the Morelli woman to grab one. Taking out his matches, he lit hers then moved on to lighting his. Exhaling the chemical smoke, he also leaned back in his chair, "There are four hours remaining," setting his elbow on the armchair, the white swirls from the cigarette traced his hand, "Any new word on the dead man?"
Thomas had set the task for Leticia to keep eyes on Kimber, he couldn't have trusted anyone else to do the job. And just like always, the job was perfectly done. Bringing the burning cig to her red lips, the action causing Tommy's blue eyes to zone in on the simple movement, "Billy Kimber is still headed to the Derby."
The Shelby man nodded at her words, already knowing everything was in order. Quietness enveloped the small space, hazel eyes and blue eyes staying locked in a heated gaze. Leaning forward to ash his own cigarette, he voiced gruffly, "There will be a meeting at the betting shop before the boys and I head to the races," watching the smoke flow out of his mouth was hypnotic. Crossing one leg over the other, Lettie remained impassive as he continued, "I want you there."
It had been a long year since having known Thomas. The thought that where they are now as friends or maybe something even more would have caused her past self to laugh at the idea. As she sat there, locked eyes with the Shelby man who grew more important to her everyday, she was satisfied to know she had been considered trustworthy.
After a passing moment, she stood from her chair with her empty glass in her hand. Thomas trailed his eyes over her walking figure pleased to know he stood correct that she was indeed wearing a black skirt. Lettie stopped at the cart to pour two glasses of dark liquid, cigarettes and alcohol being their luxury. Picking up the two glasses in her hand, her cigarette still residing between her lips, she stopped in front of Tommy.
"Shall I bring money," handing his glass to him, she humored, "To place a bet?"
Surprisingly, he wrapped an arm around her waist, drawing her in until she plopped down on his lap. Leticia was shocked he'd a pull a move like that, she thought he'd act like as if nothing happened but she was wrong. Oh, how glad she was for being wrong.
A small smirk grew on his lips as he brought his white stick back to his lips. Rubbing her hip with his thumb, he replied calmly, "Hm, not today," raising his glass, he craned his head to meet her eyes, "Today we defeat the king and move up in the world."
Humming softly, her ruby lips formed into a closed mouth grin, "That sounds lovely."
Clinking her glass with his, they both downed their drinks.
Leaning forward to burn out her cigarette, she returned her arm to wrap around Tommy's neck, bringing a new conversation to light, "Grace is on her way," her fingers dusted over the ends of his hair at the back of his neck as she informed him, "Are you ready?"
Taking an inhale from his white stick, he tightened his hold on her hip, the smoke billowing past his lips naturally. Craning his head up, his cerulean blues said it all, "Let's run the enemy out of town."
The plan was set and in motion, it was definitely something to be celebrated if succeeded. But what the Sirens and the Blinders didn't know was what was in store in the future for them. Not one, but two casualties would come into play.
***********
A certain Burgess woman made her way cautiously into Leticia's shop. Clutching her purse on her shoulder, Grace looked to the front counter to see the figure of the very woman she was here to see. Slowly moving forwards, she stopped in front of her not knowing what exactly was going to take place. She was nervous, Lettie could feel the wave wash over her from where she was standing.
"Hello, Grace." The voice of Leticia sounded through the barmaids ears. The words came out so casually, but Grace knew this conversation was going to be anything but friendly.
Nodding her head to the back, the Morelli woman instructed, "Follow me."
Making her way to the back of the store, Grace eventually followed behind her, her hands clutching her purse tightly. The door had remained unlocked for this specific moment so without the signature knock, Lettie opened the door urging the woman to enter first. The blonde woman looked around in astonishment having not known there was a secret passageway. Looking back towards the Morelli beauty incredulously, she grew even more nervous at the fact Lettie hadn't even met her eye. Leticia walked past her knowing that Grace was going to follow her as she made her way to her office.
The Burgess woman could feel the stares of the people residing in the room. Keeping her gaze on Lettie's back, she tried ignoring the spiteful looks. Once they reached the doorway to her office, the curly haired brunette walked through, Grace trailing behind looking lost. Stepping through, the Irish barmaid turned around once she heard a door close behind her. Locking on the figure of Thomas Shelby, her figure froze in absolute fear.
Tucking his hands into his trouser pockets, Tommy greeted sternly, "Miss Burgess."
Leticia leaned her backside against her desk, her arms pointing to a chair in front of her. Bringing Grace's attention back to her, she announced indifferently, "Sit down, Grace."
The said woman looked to back and forth through the both of them as she stuttered out, "I can't stay for long-"
"Sit down." Lettie's voice had taken a completely different tone. It was an order. She had no where to go.
Grace paused shortly before slowly making her way to a chair to take a seat. Placing her purse in her lap, she looked down to her hands before raising them back up to connect with the woman's in front of her, "What is this about, Lettie?"
"You know what this is about," crossing her arms over her chest, Lettie remained impassive, "It's over, Grace. We know everything."
The Shelby man walked closer to the two, his legs finding his way to stand to the side of Leticia's desk. His blue eyes turned into a steel glare as they pierced into the enemy before him, "You can drop the act. We know you've been working for, Inspector Campbell."
"A fucking spy," shaking her head slowly, Lettie quipped with a hint of taunting in her words, "You betrayed us."
"So, you are now our enemy," the Shelby man looked to his hands that dug out a cigarette before raising his eyes back up to the culprit, "Do you know what we do with our enemies?"
Grace gulped. The two standing before her were gangster. There was only one way to rid of an enemy. The Burgess woman grew terrified of the thought. Her gaze never wavered as she tried showing strength in the heat of the moment. She wouldn't give them what they wanted. So she remained silent not falling into the bait.
Thomas lot his white stick, before he stuck one hand back into his trouser pockets casually, "I imposed to kill you, but Lettie here has a softer heart," exhaling his puff, his piercing eyes contrasted against the smokey billow, his next words sounding careless, "It'd be waste of a bullet anyway."
Grace tore her eyes away from the Shelby man to meet Lettie's gratefully. She knew her friend would do no such thing, "Lettie-"
"We're giving you the opportunity to leave. Leave all of this behind you. If you do so willingly, no harm will come your way." Leticia kept her steel gaze on Grace's not wanting to display any hidden emotions she was feeling. The hurt she was enduring.
The barmaid sat up straighter in her chair, her hair moving with every shake of her head, "I don't expect you to understand. I came here not knowing that something inside me would change."
"You're right, I don't understand," the harsh finality of her words was troubling. Grace knew she had lost her, "Our friendship was built off lies. You had tricked us all."
The Burgess woman shook her head defiantly, "No, that was all true. Our friendship was never false."
Leticia sighed not wanting to hear any more of her words even if they might've been true. Her mind was set. No more lies. Nodding her head to the door, the Morelli woman ordered once more already done with the conversation. It needn't be longer than necessary, "Go, Miss Burgess."
After a long passing moment of sitting there trying to think of words to say, Grace found she had none that would sway the only other woman in the room. Slowly rising from her chair, Grace set her purse strap on her shoulder before she entertained her hands in an anxious state, "I'm sorry."
Leticia kept her head downturned to her shoes, also finding no more words to say to a person she had thought of as a friend for almost a year. She thought of their many hangouts, all the drinks and laughs they shared. She thought to the night Grace came by her place crying about the Kimber ordeal while Lettie had consoled her with tea and stories. She thought of the many times she had let her into her life. And it had all gone to waste.
Thomas could sense her despair so he took it upon himself to finalize the deal. Teaching to Lettie's desk to ash his cigarette, he too ordered, "You have two hours."
Sparing one last hopeful glance, Grace made her way to the door of her office before finally leaving. Leticia released a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding before she made her way to her car of alcohol to pour herself a glass. She needed a drink. Grasping her glass, she walked back over to her desk, her eyes connecting with Thomas's. They both shared a knowing look. He could see it written all over her face, she had been hurt. But Tommy found himself more angry than anything. How could he have not seen it?
As he took another drag from his cigarette, Lettie took a swig from her crystallized glass. The events were just beginning.
No matter the desperate prayers that were voiced that day, danger heading their way was still at play.
2021 september 22
not edited
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hello, my loves!! it's been a while, i'm so so so sorry! thank you for being patient and i hope this was worth the wait. honestly, i don't know where this story is headed and if it even makes sense at all so i need time to plan it out.
WE GOT ONE MORE CHAPTER UNTIL SEASON TWO, WHOOOO!!!
quick note, i love when thomas and leticia speak romanian together, it makes me giddy i don't know why. anyways, what are your thoughts? let me know, i love every comment!! what do you think will happen next? what's going on with ossie?
till next time, hopefully soon:) i love each and every one of you<3