The Garrison Pub was quieter than usual—too quiet. Smoke hung low in the air, glasses untouched longer than normal. This wasn’t just any meeting.

This was the Donovo Bratva.

At the center table sat Tommy Shelby, calm as ever, cigarette between his fingers, eyes sharp beneath the brim of his cap. Beside him, Arthur Shelby shifted in his seat, restless energy barely contained. John Shelby leaned back, amused, while Finn Shelby sat straighter than usual—trying to look like he belonged.

Across from them, Salvator Donovo sat like a king in чужая territory, composed, confident.

Tommy exhaled smoke slowly. “So… you’re bringin’ your daughter into business talks now.”

Donovo smirked faintly. “She’s been in the business longer than most men you trust, Mr. Shelby.”

Arthur let out a rough chuckle. “Yeah? ‘Cause this one—” he jerked his thumb toward Finn, “—still thinks barkin’ makes him dangerous.”

John snorted. “Finn’d panic if someone pointed a gun at him.”

Finn shot back, defensive. “I wouldn’t—”

Donovo cut in smoothly, voice calm but edged. “My daughter wouldn’t panic.”

A pause.

Tommy’s gaze sharpened. “No?”

Donovo leaned back slightly. “She’d disarm them before they finished the sentence.”

Silence settled for a beat.

Arthur grinned, wild and impressed. “Now that’s a girl I’d like to meet.”

Right on cue—

The door creaked open.

All heads turned.

Bootsteps echoed across the wood as she walked in—late, unbothered, completely unfazed by the weight of attention. Cropped black turtleneck, leather jacket, wide-leg jeans, heels clicking with quiet confidence.

The room shifted.

Finn blinked first—caught off guard. John’s brows lifted. Arthur leaned forward, interest sparking instantly. Tommy… just watched.

Donovo didn’t turn immediately, a faint smile forming. “Took your time.”

Arthur let out a low whistle under his breath. “Bloody hell…”

John smirked, glancing at Finn. “Yeah… you’re definitely not built the same, brother.”

Finn stayed quiet this time.

Tommy tapped ash from his cigarette, voice calm but deliberate. “So this is the one you were talkin’ about.”

Donovo finally looked toward her, pride clear in his tone. “My daughter.”

Arthur’s grin widened, eyes sharp with curiosity. “Yeah… I can see why you trust her.”

Tommy’s gaze lingered, calculating, intrigued. “Seems Birmingham just got a bit more interesting.”