Fandom Peaky Blinders

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby
​

Things had never exactly been easy for Tommy Shelby, and it didn't look like things would be getting easier. It almost seemed like just as things began to get easier, something would come along and make things even more complicated than they already were. And now, was no exception. Something else seemed to stack onto his ever-growing plate of problems. He also seemed to be getting busier and busier everyday. He did wish that he could spend more time with his son, Charlie. He wasn't spending nearly as much time with him as he should have, he was well aware of that. He knew that it might have been a disappointment to his late wife, Grace.

Now, Tommy had to go meet with the Levectoria's. It was a whole bunch of trouble that he really didn't want to deal with, but they had betrayed him, and it had to be dealt with sooner rather than later. John's death was hard on him, even if he didn't show it openly. Expressing emotion was not, and had never been, his strong suit, and that was something that he considered to be a strength. But John's death had caused this whole problem to begin with. The Levectoria's had betrayed him on an arms deal, and he had to handle it as quickly as possible. He had bid Charlie farewell first. Even though he didn't get to spend as much time with him as he liked, he still liked to say goodbye to him before he left.

Once he had said goodbye to Charlie, he went downstairs and grabbed his gun, hiding it away in his holster. He left Arrow House and got in his Bentley, going off to the meeting place. When the meeting had been set up, Tommy had been ordered to go alone. It was probably foolish of him to actually obey that order, but still, this was an important meeting and he couldn't take any risks that would make things go awry. If he was meant to go alone, it probably wasn't a good idea to go armed, but he wasn't going to make that mistake. It was better for him to be safe than sorry. The ride wasn't too long, and when he got there, he waited.

Essie Rosen
​

Even though she hadn't been working in Alfie Solomons' 'bakery' for too long, only a few weeks, Essie Rose had already established a sense of routine. She would walk in, get herself situated at her desk just outside of Alfie's office, and quietly get to her work. It was unsettling that she was working for a gangster, but she was just a secretary and she kept his books in order. And since the death of her mother and the shutting down of her old business, she needed a job, and this paid well enough that she could keep up with the rent of her old apartment. She knew that her new job would have been disappointed with her new job, but at the moment, that was beside the point.

Essie still didn't feel exactly comfortable in her new working environment. It was awkward being the only woman in the 'bakery.' She wasn't ignorant when she applied for the job. She had lived her entire life in Camden town. She had practically watched Alfie and his gang rise to power. She had never imagined that she would actually be working for him one day. She had just decided to do what she had always done, keep her head down, do what she was told, and keep to herself. She didn't ask any questions, she just did what was asked of her.

Essie was dressed simply and subtly, as she always was. She was never one who liked to stand out and call attention to herself. She was wearing a navy blouse with embroidery around the collar, and a matching skirt. She was wearing nude stocking and black shoes with a small heel that clicked against the ground as she walked. It was simple, and subtle, and practical, perfect for her job. She had not cut her hair short like many other women were doing. Her way, dark brown hair fell a little more than halfway down her back, but she wore it pinned up in a simple up-do, with a few srubborn strands falling down and framing her face. As Essie got to her desk, she pulled off her brown coat, hanging it on the chair at her desk, and took off her matching cloche hat, putting it to the side before she she started getting to her work.

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza Levectoria

Wack. Was the only noise Esperanza could hear amongst her uncle's shouting as his hand whipped through the hair, ending in a loud crackle has his palm hit her face, he cursed in the sacred gypsy tongue, Romanian, "I told you girl for the hundreth time! You never do anything right." Esperanza's tears ran down her face as the hit made her head spin, cupping her already bruised cheek, "I don't have time for your nonsense! I gave you a fucking order, girl. You know what I'll do if you don't dress all pretty and fucking smile. Remember. Your. Lines. Repeat them to me. Now." The older man towered over Esperanza's now crouching position as she hid her face from view of the cruel man, as he barked over her. She sniffled as she took a breath, attempting not to tremble, frozen in her place, "H-hello M-Mr. S-shelby... I apologise for my family they are late from a r-rondavue, would you l-like some tea while you wait.." she whispered softly as she stammered, star struken still from the impact. The uncle hummed softly, "That's right and as soon as we get a clear shot from those beautiful hills out there," he forcefully grabbed her jaw and pointed her head out the window of the gypsy cabin, the other hand pointing outward to the woods, "It'll be war. But without Tommy the rest of them are bloody shit for brains." He spoke in English tongue this time as his Romanian and Irish accent rang out harshly, his eyes hard and narrow as his grip around her face left red marks as he let go, stomping out, "Pretty yourself up. Cover the bruises up. You look fuckin' awful. Five. Minutes." He slammed the door behind him. Esperanza slowly shuffled to her feet, putting on her nicest gypsy Paisley, glamarous purple silk dress as she held her side from the bruises left there just the other night, wincing as she slipped on and applied makeup to cover the damage. Being an orphan, she was a slave unfortunately taken in by the wrong gypsies, a trade off. As she grew the Shelby's we're a ever steady role in her life. Though, they didn't pay much mind to her as a servant for the Levectorias, they were the only kindness ever shown to her. And today was the day her family was finally going to turn. Esperanza's mind buzzed, as she started to breath heavy, as herhand shakes as she applied her mascara, steadying it with her other. She couldn't do it. She couldn't betray a family. A real. Family. She'd rather die than live another day like this. And if it was at the hand of a Shelby she knew there would be mercy behind the bullet. She closed her eyes as she gulped, walking out the cabin right at five minutes as the Shelby's beautiful black Bently pulled up. She stepped out walking as if she was waiting, giving a perfect, generous smile. Her mind flashbacked to all the times she had seen the Shelby as she grew up. He was already a young man who she was hitting her first double digits, all these years spent yet so little said, but she knew what that Shelby name stood for, it stood for something she believed in that she could never have. A loving family, loyalty. "Hello Mr. Shelby," she spoke as she walked up to him, hands in sight, clapsee in front of her, "I apologise it seems my family is quite late from a ronvadue, but should be back shortly," she spoke softly, and calmly as if nothing was rattling her to her core, fighting the ever growing tightness in her throat, "Though I can invite you in for some tea..." She was quite shy toned yet conducted herself like a proper lady, a master liar. A gypsy trade. She prepared to escort him to her cabin but she then suddenly stopped, spinning around abruptly and shoving him to the ground, as bullets filled the sky, in his direction, near missing him. "I-im sorry Mr. Sh-shelby he would've a-almost killed me again......" She stammered as she ducked with him avoiding the cross fires

Alfie Solomon


Alfie slipped on his longcoat and black simple cut hat, his favorite. He kept a close eye on all his associated however, he always kept a close eye on Essie, there was a reason he never let women into his business. A distraction for the men and loose lips. Something he knew the Shelby's never understood. Apart of him resented the fact he was beginning to trust her, almost angered him but nevertheless discouraged his stubbornness to his keen eyes on the girl. Besides, she wasn't too hard on the eyes anyway. As Alfie strode into his 'bakery' he did some quick hat tips at some of his fellow workers, and small grunts as greetings but for the most part ignored them as he made his way to his office, on the way checking on some of his product, yelling at some of his workers, "ABSOLUTE. PISS. WATER. WHO the FUCK made this batch?" He spun around with the bottle in his hand. After a moment of yelling to a terrified young man he then stormed to his office right next dopr to Essie's, he could see her through the window. He sighed as he opened his desk drawer, taking a swig of the alcholic contents, eyeing her from behind his desk, he put the bottle down, abruptly storming into office, "Them annual record whatcha call it's done?" He said rather impatiently, grumbling his words out.​

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy was always ready in case things went awry. He went into every situation almost expecting it. It was better to be prepared for the worst, than being dead. And going into a situation like this, he was certainly expecting things not to go as plan. He was sure he wouldn't be going home without at least one gunshot being fired. Most of the times he had to do things like these, that was how these situations turned out. He expected this to be no different. In fact, he would be more surprised if things went smoothly and without any problems. Even if he would have preferred things go smoothly in a situation like this, he just didn't expect that it would.

As Tommy stepped out of his car, he recognized the woman waiting for him as Esperanza Levectoria. He didn't know her well, having only exchanged a minimal amount of words with her. "Miss Levectoria," Tommy said, with a small nod. She looked pretty and harmless enough, but his suspicions were still high. He had learned from the past a harmless look meant nothing. While he later married Grace, she had tricked him and gone behind his back at one point. Looks could be deceiving, and he wasn't going to make that mistake again. He also knew how gypsies could be. Hell, he was one. He should know. He was about to accept her invitation for tea, when the gunfire started.

Fuck... Tommy thought as the gunfire started. He was just about to reach for the gun he had in his holster, but he was pushed out of the way from the line of fire before he could. He looked over at Esperanza as he was finally able to pull out his gun. His mind was working at a mile a minute trying to think about what he should do. Esperanza seemed genuine in her fear, but then again, looks can deceive. "Okay, okay," he said quietly, still trying to think of something. He was clearly outnumbered and outgunned. He didn't know Esperanza well, but from what he had seen, she seemed like the quiet type. "I need you to tell me how many men there are in there and how much ammunition they have," Tommy said. He was stern, but not harsh.

Essie Rosen​

Essie had gotten used to hearing Alfie yelling at his employees, and she now was just able to ignore it. Luckily, his anger hadn't been directed at her, at least, not yet. And she wanted to keep things that way She tried to keep out of the way. Keep quiet, make herself scarce. Do her work, go home and do it all again the next day. She did what she was told and she never asked questions. She didn't talk to anybody at the bakery, with the exception of Alfie, unless she absolutely had to. Even with Alfie, she tried to keep her interactions at a minimum. If she was being honest, Alfie frightened her. She really didn't want to get herself mixed up in all of this. But, she needed the money, and this job payed well enough. Since she started working here, she had been keeping to herself more and more. She hadn't even told her Auntie Sophie of it. The poor woman would probably have a heart attack.

As Essie heard Alfie behind her, she jumped slightly. She reached for the file the file he asked for, muttering a quiet, "Yes, Mr. Solomons," as she handed it to him. She internally cursed herself for jumping at Alfie's voice. She always found it hard to look Alfie in the eye, always keeping her head down, looking through dark lashes. She reached over to another pile of paper she had stacked on her desk and picked out a couple of papers, handing them to him. "Oh, and these forms need your signature, sir," Essie added.

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza Levectoria
​

Her hands shook as she hit the cold ground, as Addrenline rushed through her, she winced lightly as she fell on the side that was still bruised from her uncle's abuse, mud now covering her dress but she could care less about the mud or the pain, "F-five, I think s-sir... Shotguns...they have to pause to reload.... I think they have five each....I'm not entirely s-sure..." She jolted as she heard more gun fire. She took a deep breath, "Use me as a s-shield...they won't do anything if you use me, despite my uncles commands..." Her voice shook, but she understood that was the only way he was getting out alive. Her eyes locked on his for a moment, and she could only look away, from fear and guilt. She knew the Shelby's over the years and how respectful they were it only hurt her to harm people of such class that she could never imagine of. Tommy growing up was secretly a man she looked up to, respectful and strong, as well as Aunt Polly, in all her gyspy ways. She got up, slowly, trying to walk as normal in strode as possible but still with a limp stood in front of Tommy, where they couldn't fire, she gazed out at the mountains they hid, so they knew this was her decision and not him taking her hostage, firing halted.

Alfie Solomon
​

Alfie noted her abrupt jump though remained emotionless through his exterior. Though, he always wanted to know what made Esme tick, who she was outside of this business. Intent. All things that were unknown to him, he would soon need to find out, "Hm?" He mused as he took the report, as well as the additional papers, "What is all this?" He muttered under his breath as he answered the question himself by reading it out, nodding slowly, "A'right, yeah." He muttered as he scribbled his signature on the lines, as he began to walk out, he paused, "Come in my office." He spoke calmly with a neutral expression but Alfie was always quiet unreadable, he could be a ticking time bomb under that calm collected face ot genuinely at ease and he knew it made people uncomfortable. In all honesty the man enjoyed it. He walked to his desk, sitting behind it after pulling out the chair across from him, sitting straight up while resting his arms on the desk, with his hands clasped together, looking at her dead in the eye from her office, the his eyelashes. He naturally had a sinister look, though it was not meant toward her in that way, he did want to see her uncomfortable. This was a serious matter, to know whose doing his biddings. She was a marvelous Secretary, no bullshit, no fuck ups, no inquiries of business but it was too good to be true. Something was wrong with this picture and he had to find out what before it became an irresolvable issue.

​

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

A million and one thoughts ran through Tommy's head all at once, trying to think of something. While he had been anticipating gun fire, he hadn't anticipated it to happen so soon. He didn't rightly know what do right now, and that was something he absolutely hated. He nodded as Esperanza told her about the guns and the ammunition, trying to formulate a plan. He only had one gun and no more ammunition than what the gun could hold. He could work with that, but he would have to use his bullets wisely. He was outnumbered and outgunned. He didn't even have to question or protest Esperanza's decision before she started walking into the line of fire, not quite sure what to expect. Yes, she had said that they wouldn't fire at her, but there was always the chance of a stray bullet hitting her or some other kind of accident. He had to admit that he was impressed as he watched her walk towards the gunfire. He didn't know many men who would do the same thing. He breathed a sigh of relief as the gunfire stopped, glad that her plan had worked and she didn't end up getting shot on accident. But now that the gunfire had stopped, he hoped that it would stay like this for the rest of this meeting. If he was being honest, he should have been expecting that from the start. He stood up from the ground, and walked up behind Esperanza. The best idea would probably be for him to run to his car and drive away. But he couldn't. These people had betrayed his family, and that was a sort of slight that he simply couldn't let go so quickly. "All right!" Tommy called, still holding his gun. "Come out ya fuckin' cowards."

Essie Rosen​

Essie was about to get back to her work as Alfie started to walk away, and she was surprised and a little bit startled when he called her into his office. She didn't hesitate to get up and follow him into his office. She started thinking about what she could have done for him to call her in. Perhaps she forgotten to some of the work assigned to her. She tried to think of something that she might have forgotten to do, but nothing came to mind. She couldn't think of any other reason why Alfie would want to speak to her. She sat down across from him and folded her hands in her lap. She looked at Alfie trying not to look look too afraid, but she was certainly failing. "Yes, Mr. Solomons?" Essie asked, her voice small. He certainly had the ability to strike fear into anyone, and she certainly was afraid. As he looked into her eyes, Essie's eyes darted to her lap. She had tried to stay out of the way and stay quiet, and not face his wrath, the same as she had seen with his other employees, but perhaps she had done something wrong. She hoped she hadn't. Nothing she had done came to mind. But perhaps she was wrong. Perhaps she had been doing plenty of things wrong since she started. She was clearly anxious as she waited to find out what this conversation would be about. With a job like this she not only risked losing her position, but also her life, if she did something wrong.

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza Levectoria
​

The young woman very much knew Tommy was in no position to get out of this alive without her, it sickened her. As she stood, with her palms out and in front of her, looking out toward the mountains, as she heard Tommy yell, her heart only sank. She was going to do what she predicted, the honorable thing regardless of how outgunned, "Mr. Shelby.....You should go..." she whispered, her voice shook. She was never one to tell people what to do, there was always consequence for attempting to for as long as she could remember, her eyes closed, flinching lightly in anticipation from simple muscle memory, as she finished her sentence, her abusive Uncle; Adrian began to make his way down the mountain, walking across the field, with a rifle in hand, not raised but simply holding it at his side, "Ah, hello Mr. Shelby...." His tone was laced with anger, glaring daggers at Esperanza, "So this is what you do to show thanks to your own fookin' blood." Esperanza's eyes only remained closed, as the sound of her heartbeat washed out his voice, it was all setting in as soon as she heard that tone. That tone that sent her to the hospital, coughing up blood so many times before, she didn't say a word, only flinching on impulse. "Move. Out. Of. The. Way. Girl." He commanded, "If you don't I will fuckin' shoot you myself." Esperanza's hand shook as she kept them raised, "Mr...Shelby.....please...go..." she whispered, she knew he was serious. He could care less of her and if she wasn't going to continue to do his bidding he was nothing to her. A disgrace. She knew she'd always remind him of his dead brother, her father, he always blamed her for his death and in the end, so did she. She finally opened her eyes, turning her head slightly to look at the Shelby behind her, her eyes were soft, and apologetic, "I'm sorry.....if you don't go....I can't cover you anymore...." her voice was solemn and soft, but as if she's given up. Like she was okay with dying.

Alfie Solomon

Alfie's eyes scanned over her nervous and timid appearance, he remained silent for a moment. He opened his drawer, pulling out a bottle of rum, and two glasses, pouring both of them and setting the bottle down, taking a cup, "Why are you here, Mrs. Rosen?" His voice graveled on, as he took a sip, his eyes never breaking hers, trying to pick up any tell that she was hiding or lying to him, or simple unknown ticks. He needed to know his new employee was loyal to him, and for a pretty woman like herself, to be in this business did not add up at all. Why a woman would subject herself to these situations or crime and violence. He knew a direct relation to him is just as dangerous, so what was her motivations? A spy? Money blind? Or some form of betrayal?​

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy did not consider himself to be a good person. He knew he wasn't and he didn't pretend to be. But he also didn't consider himself to be the worst person ever. He knew that there were plenty of people who were far worse than him. There were acts that even he, someone who had cut, beaten, and killed, found despicable. Watching the way this family treated their own kin was one such act. The fact that they would be willing to shoot her. It was actually disgusting in his mind. It also surprised him, though his face didn't show it, that Esperanza, someone he had barely exchanged words with, never even having an actual conversation with her, was willing to lay down his life for her. It honestly left him stunned. She had probably heard of everything he had done, all of the terrible things he had done. And the look that he saw on her face, well, it was enough to break his heart, if it hadn't already been broken. His mind was racing, trying to find a solution that would get them both out of this situation alive unharmed and unscathed, though that seemed like it was a long shot. Still, he could try. He had gotten out of worse situations than this one. He turned around and looked back at his Bentley, wanting to try and judge it's distance from the two of them, to see how long it would take at his fastest to get to. "I am going to my car," said Tommy, just loud enough for Esperanza to hear. "You are going to follow me. When you go to the car, you will not run in straight line. All right? Nod if you understand."

Essie Rosen​

Essie hesitantly reached forward and grabbed the other glass of rum. She wasn't much of a drinker, only having gin once in a while, but she was nervous and she hoped that she might calm down with a little bit of liquid courage. She took a small sip, trying not to make a face at the taste of the rum. She was confused about Alfie's question, wondering what he meant. She supposed he meant why she was working in a place like this. She realized that she looked out of place in a place like this. It was obvious how out of place she felt coming into a place like this every day for work. "Er... I was a secretary in a law firm and the business went under," said Essie. Her voice was still quiet, and timid. She took another sip of the rum, wanting to not sound so nervous in front of him. "And I needed a job. Fast. Beggars can't be choosers, Mr. Solomons." She decided to leave out the bit about her mother dying and funeral expenses practically drying up all of her savings. That wasn't information he needed to here, nor did she think he wanted to hear her sob story.

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza Levectoria​

Esperanza stood as her uncle ranted off to her as Tommy was particularly quiet. 'What on Earth is he doing, why isn't he leaving yet, at this rate he has a couple minutes before they shoot me and then this will all be a waste for him.' her mind buzzed, she began to shake and her eyes remained shut. She took a deep breath as everything stopped. The world froze though it was flicking by her like a freight train, ready to derail. She simply sighed, as if she let go completely and looked up at the sky, a small smile tugged at the corner of her lip. It was quite a beautiful sight, and if it was anything she wanted to see last of, was that Beautiful Stark Grey Birmingham rolling clouds in this bleak midwinter. And yet, through all the static she heard a voice, his voice ringing through her left ear. 'Hes a fucking mad man why would he ever want to save a slave like me?' her thoughts raced a million miles an hour as now the Addrenline kicked in at his words and the panic rose but she remained her exterior as if she was ready, she nodded ever so lightly, she figured if she was going to die she could at least do him a favor and get him to his car. She took a deep breath yet again, this time a bit more shakey. It was so much easier to lie down and die than have the plausibility of life. Her eyes opened as she looked toward her uncle as he spoke now to Tommy in Romanian, "You. Put Esme. Through the fuckin' ringer. And with that lad dead we have no reason to parlay." He spoke raising his shot gun, pointing it right at Esperanza's heart.

Alfie Solomon
​

Alfie nearly turned blue when she mentioned a bloody fucking law firm. He bursted out laughing, "Now....that is a tough one to believe there little miss," he mused, quite dangerously indeed as he played with his now empty tumbler of rum, eyeing it carefully as he rolled it in his hand on it's rounded corners whilst keeping it in an upright position, clicking his ring against it with every turn, "A blood law secretary, that shut down you say? Like there's not enough bloody crime in Birmingham and you choose. Instead. To work for the other bloody side." He abruptly set the glass down, making a loud clanking slam against his wooden desk, "Now why on Earth would a believe that unless you were in absolute dire straits? Work is unlimited when you have the knowledge of law even as a bloody secretary." Alfie knew if she was trying to get some intel, she most certainly wouldn't tell him that she worked for a law firm. He had to admit that must've taken courage to spit out but this still made no sense. His eyes finally shot up at hers as soon as he set the glass down, "See...I like to get my employees. Quite well. I don't give a shit. What your bloody favorite fuckin' color is. Nah. I don't give one fuck if you sleep in an alley for all im concerned, what i want to bloody know is what your intentions are dealing with a admittedly, horrible, horrible man like me. And what makes you," he spoke as his voice lowered, gently leaning against the desk, his arms resting on top with his fingers laced together, looking into her eyes, "Tick at night. And I will find out little Ms. Esme. I am not one to play games. Or waste time here." He spoke plainly as he eyed her. It was quite amusing to watch them squirm like an ant under a magnifying glass but this was no laughing matter at all. Not to him. If anything was amusing was allowing a woman into the industry handling his most personal and vulnerable dealings. He was not about to make the same mistake as the Shelby's and he was surely not going to pay any mind to her character like Tommy. His distrust of people shook whatever allure they have to begin with anyways.

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy quickly realized that he didn't have time for his original plan to work as he saw the gun pointed towards Esperanza's heart. He knew time was of the essence and he had to act quickly. He had to think of something and he had to think of something fast. He took another look back at his car and then he looked in front of him. "Fuck," Tommy said, aggravation clear in his voice. He looked over at Esperanza and sighed deeply, making a quick decision. He quickly grabbed Esperanza's wrist and pulled her out of the line of fire. He let go of her wrist and gave her a push, nothing hard, simply one to get her going. "Run!" he yelled. He hated this. He hated the fact that he was running away. But he also wanted them to both get out alive. And this seemed to be the only way that the two of them would be able to get out alive. He turned as well, and began running. He was trying to keep himself in front of Esperanza as he was sure that there would be a round of gunfire. He was keeping his gun out as he was sure that he would have to use it.

Essie Rosen​

A confused look cross Essie's face as he broke out laughing. She knew how silly it sounded, her working in a law firm and now working in an illegal distillery. But he was right, someone would only do it if they were in absolutely dire circumstances. And that was exactly why she had gotten a job there. Essie jumped slightly as he slammed his glass on the table. She was still confused, but she understand why a man like Alfie Solomons would be weary of the people that he had in his employ. She tried to stop herself from looking so frightened. As afraid of Alfie as she was, she didn't like him insinuating that she had some sort of ulterior motive in her working here. As much as she would have preferred to not divulge any of her person business, as she thought that it really was irrelevant to him, but it seemed that at the moment, she really had no choice, at least if she wanted to keep her job, and quite likely, her life. "As it happens, sir, things were dire," Essie said, trying to summon her strongest voice. It wasn't as strong as she would have liked it to be, but it was stronger than her timid, shaking voice. "My mother had died at the same time the firm went out of business. It was sudden and that was one income gone and funeral expenses. And the firm shut down because of an internal scandal. Something that I had no knowledge of, but others saw differently."

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza felt the tug at his wrist and everything suddenly began to speed. A blink of an eye, time sped up. She didn't think her body took over. Her instinct grabbed his wrist back yanking him with her, a panic to get him out of the way as well, to get him behind her as she zig-zagged to the car as bullets flew, by some luck dodging them as she climbed into the car, after stringing him along but in no ways using him as a shield she simply wanted him to be right there with her moving as fast as he can out of harms way, once in the car she ducked down, in a ball, fetal position in the seat with her hand over her ears and eyes closed.

Alfie watched her squirm in her little chair across from her. Curiouser and curiouser, an internal scandal within the firm as well as a dead mother. Sofia scratched behind his head as she spoke. He hummed lightly, for once he seemed decent though that never lasted long in Alfie's demenor, I'm sorry to hear. What did your mother pass of? Or whom." you could tell he cared less about the sob stories and more of technicalities. She only got more interesting, still quite a bit mystery. He knew where all his other employees came from, all the same M.O. young boys wanting to quick cash or in shrambles, low level criminals. He could only ponder with her, He knew what she was here but not who she was and that still bothered him though he knew that would come with time, he is an impatient man.

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy did not believe in miracles, but as he reached his car he considered it some kind of luck that he was able to get himself as well as her out of this whole situation without being shot. Still he had to work fast and drive away quickly to make sure that they didn't get hurt. He knew this wouldn't be over with that, and he hated driving away. It made him feel like a coward. But he was outnumbered. If he had stayed and fought, he'd be dead quickly. He didn't have as many bullets as they had. Tommy made it to his car, getting in the driver's seat. It was obvious that Esperanza was terrified, and to be honest, he didn't blame her. He had faced death and come out on top many times. It was practically normal or him. But he also knew that it wasn't normal for most other people. It becoming so desensitized to almost dying, he didn't know how to comfort people in such a situation. But if he was being honest, he didn't know how to comfort people in general. As he started the car and began to drive, he didn't say anything. He was driving as fast as he could, while also trying to avoid the barrage of gunfire.

Essie Rosen​

"Influenza, sir," said Essie, trying to make her voice sound stronger. She knew that he wanted to know that she had no ulterior motives working for him and she didn't. She couldn't blame him for trying to make she wasn't trying to get information on his gang and trying to sell it or working for the police. But she wasn't and she wasn't going to lie to him. Not that she had anything to lie to him about. She had nothing to hide from him. She wasn't stupid, and she wasn't going to play games with Alfie Solomons. Other's might have been stupid enough to try and play with him. But she wasn't going to do that. She wouldn't have gone to work for him if she had anything to hide. She valued her life and she knew her life would be forfeit if he found out that he had been hiding things from him. "It was all very sudden."

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza was dead quiet honestly if he talked to her she most likely wouldn't hear it as her hearing went to static, she only stayed curled up for the first few seconds until everything snapped right back into place again. Her eyes opened as she remembered she had lungs, and a breath she had been holding she let out in a shaky manner. She looked up through her eyelashes over the dash not daring to move after the bullets flying. She recognized the tops of the buildings, she choked out quite quickly, "Turn left on New Hampshire and a sharp right into the Middleford Alley. There's a tunnel. To through and then a sharp left. They dont know that way it's uncharted territory." for that moment she acted like she had done this before but her facial expression showed otherwise, her pupils were pinholes. She could barely see as her lizard brain was shutting off unnecessary functions, tunnel vision, her whole body was shaking including her jaw as she spoke and she was white as a sheet. Another bullet hit the side of the car as she let out a little yelp curling into her ball again, and there the shock hysteria began as she kept repeating over and over "Im sorry," in Romani.

Alfie nodded as she spoke. He wasn't about to cottle her for her pain, or loss. Simply saw that pathetic of all things. Its not how to build strength. Its not how to be a strong leader. In this business everyone especially himself needed to show no tact or care about personal lives unless it interfered with business. He nodded and cleared his throat, "I want you to come into town with me today." he spoke simply. He planned to test her loyalty. "Business meeting. I need you there to record it. Since you know our books you know what's best for our company." he spoke plainly. "Put on something nice. Be ready, here, by two sharp. Got it?" he then filled his glass again and downed it

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy didn't exactly know what to do. He didn't exactly know how to handle hysteric woman. And his current predicament was not helping anything. He bit his tongue to stop himself from snapping at her. But he knew that would hurt, not help, and honestly, he didn't want to frighten the poor girl anymore when it was so obvious that she was terrified. He began going the way that she had instructed him. He did want her to stop feeling so scare though, but comforting people had never been his strong suit. "It's all right," Tommy said. He tried to keep his voice low and steady. He wasn't going to hurt the girl. He was anything but calm, however. He was driving like a madman to outrun the bullets. "We'll be out of this soon enough."

Essie Rosen​

"Yes, sir," said Essie. She put the glass back on the table and stood up and turned to leave his office. As she was leaving, she looked down at her outfit. She was trying to figure out why she couldn't just wear that. She supposed her lunch break would be spent trying to pick what to wear. She quickly went back to her flat, trying to think of everything she owned that would be suitable for this business meeting. As she got to her flat she immediately ran to her closet and began sifting through her clothes. She quickly decided on a peach colored blouse with white embroider flowers on the cuffs and an around the neckline and a cream colored skirt. It was still professional, but it looked nicer than what she was wearing before. She often avoided wearing lighter colors to work, in an attempt to stand out less, but she supposed today, it would be alright. Once she finished changing, she headed off back to work, getting there with only a few minutes to spare.

 

[RunawayGirl]

As soon as he spoke she shut up, nodding. The gypsies then came to a halt once they got to the uncharted streets that Esperanza instructed him to go to. Soon, the bullets stopped. Esperanza was deathly quiet just her eyes closed, staying down. Not making one peep, shaking a bit but at least better than before where she went into hysterics. Admittedly, Esperanza would've handled this a lot better if she didn't almost die twice and accept it, it would certainly cause need for mental breakdowns. After a fee moments of silence, she cracked her eyes open, looking up at him through her eyelashes without moving her head. She was still frozen like a deer in the headlights.

Alfie did some business until two rolled around. He slung on his coat and hat, as he buttoned up his wool trenchcoat as he ventured looking for Esme. He knew where they were going was going to be a trap. An attempt as loose ends. Alfie had already categorized everything in his mind that could go down, her betrayal, would cause the domino effect. He took a shot of whiskey before leaving to go find Esme.

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy breathed a small, barely audible sigh of relief as the gunfire stopped. And he was glad that Esperanza had calmed down a little bit. He was still going the direction he told her, but he made a plan to not go directly back to his house after that. Just drive around for a little bit to buy some time. He still did feel bad for Esperanza, and wished that she could calm down more. The only sort of experience he had in comforting was Charlie and horses. But with her, he really didn't know what to do. He sighed deeply, trying to think of something. "All right," said Tommy, looking at her. "We'll go back to my house soon and we'll think of something there. For now, I suppose. Just try to relax. All right?" He thought for a moment and then added, "Cigarette?" He knew that those calmed a lot of people down, at least just a little.

Essie Rosen​

Essie had decided to go back to her desk with the few minutes she had to spare, knowing that she had a few things from the morning that she needed to finish up, things that had been interrupted by her impromptu meeting with Alfie. Knowing that she would be going out again soon, she hadn't bothered to take off her brown coat or her brown cloche hat. She noticed Alfie and she put her notepad and a pen into her purse so she could record the meeting. She immediately stood from her desk, and quickly tidied everything up, as she liked a neat and orderly working space. With that done, she walked to Alfie. "Mr. Solomons."

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza slowly unravelled from her fetal position once there as just the quite lull of the car after a few moments, sitting up, nodding, she did feel terribly bad for dragging him into this. She sat up for a moment, looking around timidly, still terrified clearly. A car jumped out in front of them, nothing to fatal but she jumped. She sat up, stiff as a board, eyes glued to the road, snatching the cigarette, and lighting up the cigarette in the car lighter. She puffed it, coughing hard. Clearly not a smoker however it did calm her down. She took a deep breath, relaxing a bit. "thank you..." she spoke lightly.

Alfie hummed, eyeing what she was wearing and nodded, "Ms. Rossen." he spoke quietly as he puffed a cigar, "Right on time." he spoke with a rasp as he like a gentleman, offered his arm to escort her to the car, and opened up the car door, his other hand out to the door. He was quite quiet.

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy could tell that she wasn't a smoker. He had coughed like that when he first took up smoking. "You'll get used to it," said Tommy. He didn't really know what to say. It would be a while until they got back and he didn't want her to be so terrified of him. He almost told her that if he was going to hurt her, he would've already. But he didn't. He held his tongue. "Now, can you tell me, will there be anyone at my house when I get there?" he asked as calmly as he could. He wanted her to be calm, and to relax, but he also needed to be cautious. He hoped that the calm tone he was speaking with would help her calm down a little bit.

Essie Rosen​

Essie was hesitant to accept Alfie's arm, but she did so. And as he opened the car door, she slid inside. She was a little nervous about this, as she had never done anything like this before. But she wasn't expecting anything other than a meeting for her to sit in on and take notes. But she knew of Alfie's temper. Essie would simply stay quiet and stay out of the way, the same thing she always tried to do, not only since she had started working for Alfie, but even when she was a little girl.

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza nodded, speaking so quietly at first, "No better time than now to get used to it..." she looked down, shaking her head, shakely holding holding the cigarette between her fingers. She knew he would've done something already, "N-no sir...they k-know better...." She spoke quietly taking another puff, with a little cough but doing much better. She chewed her lip, She wanted to apologise again. Him even rescuing her made this all even more risky But she just internally was shut down and very supressive now.

Alfie remained quiet. He knew she was nervous. He shut the car door behind her as he got in on the drivers side offering her a cigarette as he started to drive off. Puffing the cigar quietly, "Relax." he stated simply. "Won't be long. Don't show your fear to these guys. They are dangerous just like we are ya got it?"

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy nodded. He knew it would have been stupid of them to show up at his house. Still, he was a cautious man, and he wanted to be sure. He always tried to think of every likely scenario before he went into any sort of situation, especially one that could end in violence. And with him, the likelyhood was quite high. He wasn't much good at small talk, and he began getting closer to his house. Once he had pulled up to his manor he got of his car and went to the other side and opened the door for Esperanza. "Are you alright to walk?" he asked, because she still looked scared, and in all honesty, Tommy thought she might faint.

Essie Rosen​

"Yes, sir," Essie responded as she took the cigarette and lit it. Smoking was something that she had done on a few rare occasions, but she was used to it. She took a few deep breaths and calmed down a little. Though it was a frightening thought as to whom they were seeing if they were as dangerous as Alfie claimed. She took a drag of the cigarette and she glanced over at Alfie curiously. She found it a little odd that he would tell her of this meeting with so little time, but she didn't question it. She knew Alfie could be unpredictable and she supposed she would have to get used to it.

 

[RunawayGirl]

She was very quiet along the way, in all honesty in this case nor was she. Especially to a man who she doesn't know how to feel about in this scenario, if she could say anything at all it would be an apology. She didn't think it was a good idea for her to be at the manor, as in inconvenience. She got up timidly, dangling her legs off the edge, she only nodded as she began to step out, her legs seemed indeed a bit weak but she was standing and distant from him, she probably wouldn't let him help her more than he already has, "Thank you..." she mumbled.

Alfie only remained quiet as he made his way to the countryside. Clearly remote, in the rolling hillsides of Birmingham, away from the heart of the industrial city. Over the hill laid a warehouse, that looked seemingly abandoned. He pulled up to the warehouse, parking beside it by two other black, shiny, new cars. He didn't bother looking over at her though came around the other side to open her door, offering her a hand to help her down.

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy watched her get out of the car with uncertainty, though his face didn't betray it. He simply let her walk at the pace she was comfortable with. He wasn't going to help unless she needed or asked. It did look like she was having trouble. In all honesty, he was out of his element. He wasn't used to helping people, especially not like this. "We could stay out here for a moment, if you'd like," he offered. "Give you a moment to get your footing."

Essie Rosen​

​

Essie eyed the building with a little hesitation as Alfie helped her out of the car, with a small, "thank you." She dropped the cigarette on the ground and stamped it with her foot, then smoothing the creases that had formed on her skirt. The warehouse gave her a feeling of unease, but she tried not to let it show.

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza paused for a moment, she looked up at the sky much like she did from earlier, though now with an amused look, sort of like looking up rhetorically at God as a 'what the hell, man' expression. She looked back down at him, she cleared her throat. She began to walk in stride, though she was shaky she didn't allow it to phase her, "It's okay...I won't stay for long." she tapped the cigarette on the patio ash tray and put it out. She stared at the manor like it was a bit, well, daunting. Considering she was cooped up her whole life in the back of a wagon, shut out from basically everyone and any adventure, and new sights regardless of travel; seeing a manor like this was much like seeing a castle. It's the only thing she could compare it to. Fables and stories of castles, it was indeed though known Tommy Shelby was now basically King of Birmingham. Her eyes, now coming out of the shock, finally, was able to recognize the magnitude of the building. She had a very innocent expression, that much like a child; eyes widened, and a bit soft, very taken back.

Alfie led the way, with a neutral expression as he walked into the building. It was quite dark and dim lit. The only thing in the building was a small wooden table and three chairs, with a circle of men around it, armed, holding them out blatantly, with their hands clasped together in front of their hips, standing down but letting it be known they are indeed armed. Some of Alfie's other men that took a different route came out from the other side of the building, with their guns showing however in the same, 'stand down', respectful pose. As Alfie reached the table, he tipped his hat, taking it into his hand as the man dressed in a nice black suit, sitting at the table stood, to shake his hand, "Mr. Solomon." he spoke plainly as they shook hands, Alfie then sat across the table from the man in the ring of the armed men after pulling the seat out beside him for Essie.

 

[RunawayGirl]

(I hope you don't mind if I make a random character for this- I wasn't really sure if I should use a canon or not?)

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Tommy Shelby​

Tommy scoffed as she said that she wouldn't stay long. It looked like she didn't have anywhere else to go. If he just let her go out into the world on her own, she would most likely last a week, and that was a generous estimate by the looks of it. He didn't voice that opinion out loud, though. Instead, he decided it would be better if he just put off that conversation until the were both inside and settled. "Well, we can discuss that later," Tommy said. "C'mon. Let's go in." He opened the door to the manor, and gestured for her to follow him. He took her to the kitchen, as it was warmer in there, and he guessed she might need something to drink. He knew that he certainly did. Getting into the kitchen he poured himself a glass of whiskey before he turned to Esperanza, an empty glass in his hands. "D'you want some?"

Essie Rosen​

Essie silently followed Alfie, the only sound she was making was the clicking of her shoes against the ground. She was a little unnerved being surrounded by so many men with guns, but she supposed that it was something that she would have to get used to. She was simply here to record what was happening, no more, nor less. At least that was what she supposed. As Alfie pulled out the chair for her, she sat down and took opened her purse. She was a little nervous, as she was afraid that some of the men might think she was armed. But she wasn't. It would have been stupid of her anyway, being surrounded by so many armed men. Her purse was small. Her pen and small notebook barely fitting in. She took those out and opened her notebook to a fresh page and readied herself to take notes.

(It's fine. I don't mind.)

 

[RunawayGirl]

Esperanza Levectoria

As he guided her through the manor, she looked baffled by it all. The size of it, the detail, it was overwhelming. It certainly beat a caravan. She'd heard tales of castles, and to her mind; this was indeed one. She walked into the kitchen with him as she gradually began to warm up, she glanced around giving a timid smile. She began to calm, quite clearly as the heat hit her. She glanced at the bottle of whiskey, giving a slight nod, "Thank you." her voice was steadier, yet her tone was timid and soft. Indeed a shy one, out of her element and certainly unaware of what to do under these circumstances. It made her mind race trying to find the answer. Set up to kill the man, and harm the family that you admired, while your own beat you down, literally, and forced to betray the family, the model you wish you had then betray your own to assist them. And now, you're in their mansion, somehow not dead, and standing across the man they wanted dead as he offers you a drink.

Certainly not, an easy position. She didn't want to open her mouth in fear that she would only make matters worse. She needed an exit strategy, to leave him alone. To not bother him or inconvenience any of them further. Being a gypsy, she was raised constantly moving and on the run; it's the only solution deemed fit ever in dire times. She knew these streets like the back of her hand, from the caravans but never permitted to walk them, she knew the shops and the people here but never spoke to them. As if she never existed here but knew so much; she knew where to go. The question was this little obstacle in the way. What will Tommy do with her?

Alfie Solomons

Alfie lit up yet another cigar as he sat across the mystery man. A man dressed in all black, even his undershirt, and a black cane. A bit unorthodox for the time for a man, even a woman to wear such matching colors, nevertheless dark. Alfie puffed little smoke o's in the air that dissipated around the man, "This is my Secretary, Ms. Rossen, Mr. Lavale, She will be overseeing the deal. Any problems with that?" He asked, though he could care less if there would to be any problems. Quite a weak introduction indeed. Just one minute into the meeting and the Solomon's already throwing some sass. He very well knew this would be a set up. He knew what this man to be capable of; especially to 'weak links' like women, especially those in the business or in affiliation romantically. Notorious; a man with no tact. Little did Ms. Rossen know, Alfie knowingly walked into a trap, and little did the little miss know; Alfie's men are surrounding the building in hiding, taken different route to avoid suspicion; hidden in the hills. He had gained recent intel, just a couple days ago of their plot to kill him. It was supposed to be today, this meeting.

Mr. Lavale shifted lightly in his chair, it was quite hard to see his face from the dark shadows that covered them, he leaned forward, only to slightly to reveal his long nose and cheekbones, the outline of his face and pitch black eyes that shimmered toward her, offering to shake her hand, "Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Rossen, may we carry on?" the man's deep rasp spoke, American; how odd. Alfie only hummed in response. The dealings took forth, the deal quite fair. Mr. Lavale distributes his liquor at a fraction of the cost, and he gets to keep %2 of his product. Though, of course, Mr. Solomon's doesn't exactly like to be owned, not even by %2. "Y'know, I think that is some utter bullshit, aye," he scoffed as he glanced over at Essie, "Bullshit, aye?" he mused playfully, but ever so dangerously.​