Bête noire → Peaky Blinders [Tommy Shelby] [ BOOK 1 ]

Fifty.

Chapter fifty: Die for you

In the mirror, Caroline watched herself wince with each almighty pull her assistant made, lacing up the back of her elegant ballgown. As it was a charity event, she should have worn something simple-yet-tasteful, however, first impressions were key, and so, she ordered to be clothed in only the finest materials known to mankind. 

Tonight would mark the day in which their name would be displayed purely for beneficial reasons. To be in the good books of society was unnerving, especially because they splashed cash out on men to take out underdogs within crime, but to establish their own children's home was a dream she fantasised about and with luck and heavy persuasion, they'd get what they want without getting blood on their hands.

"Watch it! Are you trying to restrict my airways?"

Feverishly, the other woman apologised and backed away. "I'm sorry, missus Shelby. You're right. It looks tight enough."

"Thank you, Maria. Can you please check on Charles and see how he is?"

"Certainly, missus Shelby."

When Maria escaped the room to take a sigh of relief in the cool corridor, Caroline stood up, admiring the length and volume of her ballgown. As the moonlight cascaded through the open window, she was lured to the glass to peer down on the countless of cars that were parking around their circular junction, some being driven by chauffeurs, indicating that the council had showed up.

She knew with her inherited money she'd get far in life, but not once did she contemplate being married to the most infamous gang leader in the country and fighting alongside him in every battle they conquered together, nor did she think she'd ever take that extra leap of faith into establishing a home for lost children, a plan in which had been agreed by the council themselves. It was a huge victory, but as she looked up to the starry night sky, she wished her father was there to appreciate her success and congratulate her. Instead, she would have to settle for the fake love given by fake friends.

With a knock, Maria opened the door and stood in the frame. "Your husband and son are dressed perfectly in matching suits. Shall I escort you down to the ballroom?"

"No. Myself and my men will go down together as a family." Caroline stated proudly as she made her way towards the second dressing room. "We have to give our audience a show they won't forget."

***

With Thomas holding her hand and Charles chirping happily on her hip, it was the three of them against the world. No greater achievement could compare to that of being a mother and a wife, celebrating their courageous generation as a family to bring peace and safety to those without.  

They were used to the applause upon their entrance, but when Caroline's eyes fell on her brother who pushed himself out of his seat, rising to his feet to clap, she felt beyond accomplished as she made him proud, proving to him that dreams and goals can be achieved no matter how bad a person you are. Redemption was always sought, but not by peers. Only God could judge them on their journey of change.

Instead of addressing the hoard of guests together, Caroline and Thomas shared a brief kiss before they parted ways to greet familiar faces. With fingers curling around her forearm, she turned, softening her features as Polly smiled brightly, dressed effortlessly beautiful in a pink dress, naked of expensive jewellery. 

"My, don't you look ravishing!"

"Thank you, sweetheart. My male friend somewhere in this room told me I'm a woman of class and substance." A smirk crossed her rouge lips as she spoke. "For a charity event, you're flashing some serious amount of cash with that sapphire around your neck."