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Shelby should have known Toni was trouble from the first time they met.
Shelby was fascinated, to say the least, when a small, awkward, grumpy Toni Shalifoe stumbled into her class halfway through 6th grade. Taking interest in the way she kept shuffling her beat up sneakers against the tile floor as the teacher introduced her to the class, just like the way she kept her eyes trained to the floor as she was assigned seats.
That seat being the only available one in the class. Next to Shelby.
When the grumpy brunette, who was sporting a spider-man graphic tee, took her seat, Shelby flashed a big smile before introducing herself, “Hi! I’m Shelby.”
Toni eyed her carefully before responding with a meekly “Hi?”
Shelby noticed that Toni’s front two teeth were missing, which made Shelby smile considering the situation with her own teeth.
“How’s your first day going?” The blonde asked, still sporting the same polite smile.
“...Um, okay, I guess?” Toni grumbled out in response, opting to lay her head on her folded arms on the desk, hoping the girl next to her would take a hint.
She didn’t.
“Do you have any friends yet?”
Toni took a moment to respond before looking up and nodding a little, “Her name’s Martha.”
“Oh! I know Martha! She’s real nice. She actually sits with me and our other friends at lunch. If you wanna join?” Shelby offered, her smile forming from the confident, polite one to a more shy one.
Toni thought the change was interesting.
“Uh… yeah, whatever, that’d be cool.” Toni responded then she went back to laying her head on the desk, leaving Shelby with a small smile on her face.
The lunch table really only consisted of four people (five with the new addition of Toni). Shelby, obviously, Martha Blackburn, Dorothy (Dottie) Campbell and Becca Gilroy. And they all got along super well with Toni, which didn't really surprise Shelby, her friends were nice.
But it wasn't hard to notice that Toni and Martha quickly became an inseparable duo, which sometimes sparked the tiniest bit of jealousy within Shelby, for reasons she didn't yet understand.
Another time Shelby should've known Toni was trouble was during Toni’s first game in Youth Soccer.
It’s not that Toni was bad at soccer, she was actually really good, and one of the reasons why Shelby’s team was winning.
It was when Shelby landed a tackle and managed to score it went downhill. A girl from the other team got increasingly more aggressive towards Shelby from then on, which resulted in a particularly hard shove that landed Shelby on the ground with a grazed elbow.
Toni saw it all unfold, and with an angry furrow in her brow she stormed over to the girl and pushed her over. But before Toni could say anything to the girl, Dot’s dad, the coach, was quickly separating them.
He gave the both of them a sharp talking to about violence before sending Toni to go get a medkit.
When Toni kneeled next to her with the medkit she had a shy, sort of hesitant look in her eye. Shelby smiled softly when Toni looked away to place a bandaid on Shelby’s elbow.
When they both stood up, Toni looked hesitant again, as if she was going to say something but was stopping herself. So Shelby pulled her into a tight hug and whispered a “Thank you.” into Toni’s ear, then placed a small delicate kiss on her cheek.
When they pulled away Toni had the biggest grin on her face.
Toni protecting her became a regular occurrence, Shelby realised. And Shelby had her own way of protecting Toni too.
They were on the playground at lunch, goofing around when it happened. Shelby was about to go down the slide when she saw Andrew Johnson and his friends approaching Toni.
She huffed at the sight of them and quickly walked over.
It didn't take a genius to know what was happening, especially when Shelby caught the near end of what Andrew was saying. He was making fun of Toni. Specifically her beat up vans.
Shelby spotted Toni’s small hands balling into fists, she could sense how irritated Toni was getting. So she unballed the other girls hand and took it into her own. Toni softened a bit, getting less tense before squeezing Shelby’s hand back.
“Why don’t you go and pick on someone your own size, Andrew?” Shelby said, taking a small step forward with her hand still holding Toni’s.
“Why are you sticking up for her, Shelby? I mean… just look at her,” Andrew scoffed in response, looking between Shelby and Toni.
“Cause’ she’s my friend. And she’s a whole lot nicer than you are. So leave her alone.” Shelby spat back. She normally wasn't usually one for confrontation but she couldn't just let them bully her friend.
Andrew just rolled his eyes, muttered a “whatever” and walked off with his friends in tow.
When Shelby turned back around, Toni was looking at her with her eyes widened a little.
“Are you okay?” Shelby asked softly, looking down at their hands and back up to Toni’s face.
“Yeah, yeah, I’m okay. Thank you, Shelby. That was pretty badass.” Toni said with a small smirk playing on her lips, like she was proud.
Shelby gasped but couldn't hold in a giggle, “Toni! That’s a bad word!”
“What? Badass?” Toni replied, also giggling, turning it into a full laugh when Shelby nodded at her.
“My daddy would kill me if he heard that word comin’ outta my mouth.” Shelby admitted, “Wouldn't yours?”
Toni’s smile faded a little and she looked at the ground. She shook her head sadly and Shelby took this as a sign to change the conversation. So she tugs on their still connected hands and tilts her head towards the basketball court, “C’mon” she smiled.
Shelby was starting to realise Toni was trouble when they were 13.
For Shelby’s 13th birthday, her parents allowed her to have a sleepover with some friends, considering she was teenager after all. Those friends were Toni, of course, Martha, Becca and Dot.
Shelby and her mom had previously gone out shopping for a nice dress for the party. A nice butter yellow one that stops just above her knees. Her hair was down and straightened and her mom put the tiniest bit of makeup on her.
She also had a tiara on. Because duh, she’s Shelby.
The party was packed before her friends arrived. Family members and family friends had arrived, bringing gifts and catching up.
The first one to arrive was Becca. A gift bag in her hand and a big smile on her face. Shelby pulled her into a hug and greeted her before pulling her away into the house.
Next was Dottie. Her dad dropped her off and gave Shelby a small head pat with a “Happy Birthday, kiddo,” before giving Dot a hug and telling her that he’d pick her up tomorrow. Dot smiled wide and let herself be dragged through the house by Shelby.
Martha and Toni arrived together, with Martha’s mom dropping them off. When Shelby opened the door to greet the two, she noticed Toni’s mouth drop into a small ‘o’ shape, but before she could question it, Martha was tackling her in a big hug with a “Happy Birthday, Shelby!”
Martha pulled away and told her that she’d go put her gift with all the other gifts, leaving Toni and Shelby still at the door.
“I like your dress,” Was the first thing to come out of Toni’s mouth, her cheeks flushing just the slightest bit.
Shelby’s cheeks mirrored Toni’s at the compliment. She felt herself getting nervous and she didn't know why. She got complimented all the time, so why did it feel different when Toni did it?
Shelby brushed off her nerves as best she can before responding, “Thank you, you look really nice too,” with a soft smile.
Toni just flushed redder so Shelby smiled and grabbed her hand, pulling her into the house.
When it was time for gifts, the girls had already decided they were gonna show Shelby’s theirs later, in her bedroom. So Shelby opened all of the gifts from friends and family with a bright smile.
When Shelby’s mom brought out the cake, the lights were dimmed and everyone started singing. The blonde smiled and looked around, which ended up in her catching Toni’s eyes, which were already on her. Shelby’s smile grew brighter and so did Toni’s. It made her heart warm.
Later that night, when the girls were sent to Shelby’s room, they all changed into their pajamas and sat on the floor in a circle, each giving Shelby their gifts.
Becca’s gift was 3 framed photos of pictures of her and Shelby. One was at a bowling alley, the second was at Becca’s 10th birthday and the final was when they both went horseback riding. Shelby smiled so wide and thanked Becca profusely. She got up to put the framed photos on her dresser before sitting back down.
Dot was next, her gift was the CD version of Taylor Swift’s album; Fearless. She tackled Dot in a hug and then sat the CD next to her Hello Kitty cassette player.
Martha was next, she bought Shelby a brown teddy bear with a yellow heart sewn to the hands and ‘Shelby’ sewn into the heart in cursive. Martha had the biggest smile on her face and so did Shelby. She thanked Martha and put the stuffed bear on her bed.
Toni looked a little shy knowing she was next, so Shelby gave her a small, encouraging smile, “It’s from you, Toni, so I’m sure I’ll love whatever it is.”
That seemed to ease Toni’s nerves because she pulled a small box out of the pocket of her jeans and handed it over to Shelby.
“It’s not that great, I tried my best. It’s kind of dumb really, it’s just the scorpius constellation, because you know, you’re a scorpio, I thought it was cool but if you think it’s dumb that’s totally fine I can-” Toni rambled on but Shelby cut her off with a small grin.
“Toni. It’s amazing. Thank you.” Shelby smiled. Toni’s gift was a bracelet with the scorpius constellation. Shelby thought it was gorgeous, and so thoughtful of Toni.
She got the brunette to put it on her wrist for her and swore to never take it off.
In bed that night, with Martha, Becca and Dot on the floor on air mattresses and Toni in Shelby’s bed with her, Shelby spoke up.
“Toni?”
“Hm?”
“Thank you for the bracelet, really. It’s probably the nicest gift I’ve ever gotten.” Shelby said, her eyes flickering from the ceiling to Toni, who was already looking at her.
“You’re just saying that,” Toni responded quietly.
“Why on earth would I do that?” Shelby asked, “When have I ever lied to you, Toni?”
Toni was quiet for a bit, as if she was mulling it over, before responding, “I guess you’re right.. so, you really like it?”
“Of course I do, it's so pretty. How much do you know? About like stars and stuff?” Shelby wondered curiously, lifting her arm with the bracelet up to look at it as she spoke, then laying it back down, closer to Toni’s hand.
“Not a lot, but I know a little about basic constellations and stuff… people normally think it’s dumb.” Toni admitted, her voice small, like she’s just waiting for Shelby to laugh at her.
“I think it’s super cool. Tell me more?” Shelby asked, inching her hand slightly closer to Toni’s again.
Toni nodded and went on to tell Shelby everything she knew about constellations, but not before intertwining her hand with Shelby’s.
Shelby soon realised that it’s not Toni’s fault she might be trouble.
They were 14 and Toni was over at Shelby’s house because they were doing a school project.
Shelby was in a relatively good mood. blasting Love Story by Taylor Swift through her cassette player, but Toni seemed agitated. Like everything was bugging her. So Shelby lowered the volume, pulled her away from her desk and sat them both on the bed.
“What’s up?” Shelby asked, she bumped her shoulder with Toni’s, a small, comforting smile on her face.
“Huh?” Toni mumbled in response, her gaze locked on her hands as she picked at the hangnails on her thumb.
“Something's botherin’ you,” Shelby stated, she reached over and took Toni’s hand in her own to keep her from fidgeting. “You can talk to me, Toni.”
Toni looked so vulnerable and small when she looked back up at Shelby. The blonde just stroked her thumb over Toni’s knuckles, trying to comfort her.
“She doesn't want me.” Toni said sadly, her voice small.
“Huh?” Shelby asked, confused. She had no idea what Toni could be referring to, so she pushed. “Who doesn't want you?”
“My mom.” Toni admitted, then sighed when Shelby gave her a puzzled look and motioned for her to continue. “You know I’m in foster care right? It’s not really a big secret but… I’ve never met my dad, he took off before I was even born and my mom… she’s a drug addict, Shelby. In and out of rehab like it’s a fucking white castle.”
Shelby was shocked. She had no idea any of this was going on in Toni’s life and cursed herself for not noticing something was wrong sooner.
“Oh, Toni,” Shelby cooed and pulled Toni into her arms. “I’m so sorry. What do you mean by she doesn't want you?”
Toni sniffled, “Apparently she’s a good couple months clean and has had the chance to call me. Or come and see me. And she hasn't. Not even a letter. I wrote her so many letters, Shelby.”
Shelby stayed silent as Toni started to cry into her shoulder, nothing but the occasional “shhh”s or “you’re okay, i’m here”s.
When Toni pulled away, Shelby took her face into her hands, “Anyone who doesn't want you is stupid, Toni. So stupid. She doesn't deserve you, you know that? You’re so frickin’ sweet and caring and loyal. And you're my best friend.”
Toni looked at her with such a soft look in her eye at that, “Fuck, Shelby, you’re my best friend too. Thank you. I’m sorry, I didn't mean to ruin your day.”
“Toni. You could never ruin my day.” Shelby said honestly, her voice still soft, as she held the other girl so delicately. She pulled Toni back in for one last hug and left a small kiss on the crown of her head, which made Toni hum against her softly.
Shelby was starting to acknowledge it halfway through freshman year.
Shelby found herself at the park with Toni. They had been hanging out for a while now, and the sun had started to set. Toni had asked her to hang out that day, claiming she had something to show her.
So Shelby let herself be led through the woods, her hand clasped tightly in Toni’s, into a small clearing of grass. Toni tugged at Shelby’s hand and motioned for them both to lay down.
From here, there was a perfect view of the stars that were starting to appear. Shelby looked over at the brunette, who had the biggest grin on her face as she mumbled, “Just on time,”
They laid in silence for a while, just watching the stars until Shelby spoke, “This is amazin’, Toni. How did you find it?”
“One day, when my anger was really getting the best of me, Martha suggested that I go on a walk. It sounded super dumb at first but I honestly felt better after trying it. And I found this, so,” Toni hummed softly, squeezing Shelby’s hand that’s still in her own.
“Thank you for showin’ me,” Shelby said softly, her eyes flickering between the stars and Toni’s face.
Toni just smiled at her before refocusing on the stars, content to just be there with Shelby.
A comfortable silence was casted upon them again.
Shelby started to wonder why Toni would only show her this and not the other girls. Not that she was complaining, she loved it when she and Toni had secret little things only they knew about or understood. But she was curious. She thought of asking but Toni spoke up before she could.
“Shelby?”
“Hm?”
A beat.
“I think I like girls.”
Toni said it so quietly and hesitantly that Shelby was sure she could have missed it.
“Yeah?” Shelby managed, afraid her voice would fail her if she said anything more.
“Yeah. Like I think about girls the way Martha and Becca talk about guys. Is that weird?” Toni asked, her voice still hesitant and small. It made Shelby’s heart ache.
“No,” Shelby swallowed, “It’s not weird, Toni, it’s normal.”
“You think so? But what about your dad? He-” Toni started, but Shelby quickly cut her off, “I’m not my father, Toni.”
“I know you aren't, I’m sorry. I’m just nervous,” Toni admitted, she sat up and gave Shelby an apologetic look.
“You were nervous to tell me? Why?” Shelby asked, her heart hurt thinking about Toni being scared to tell her something.
“I didn't know how you’d feel, I’m sorry,” Toni apologised again, scooting closer to Shelby and giving her hand a squeeze.
“No, you don’t have to apologise, I understand why you’d feel like that, given how my daddy feels… but I support you wholeheartedly, Toni, you know that right? I don’t care who you fall in love with, you’re still my best friend.” Shelby said, her voice soft and comforting. She sat up properly and pulled Toni into a tight hug.
And when Toni mumbled a soft “Thank you,” into her shoulder, Shelby wished she had the guts to say what she really wanted.
“Me too.”
Shelby knew Toni was trouble halfway through Junior year.
Toni was out and proud by then, which was a brave thing for her to do considering what Fort Travis was like, but Toni didn't care. She was so unapologetically herself and that’s what Shelby loved about her.
It obviously got back to Dave, but with some convincing from both Shelby and Jobeth, they were still allowed to be friends. Under the condition of no sleepovers and no hanging out on their own.
It sucked, obviously, but they found ways to get around those rules. Like sleepovers would always be at Martha’s, without Dave knowing about Toni being there, or Shelby would get Martha, Becca or Dot to cover for her if she ever wanted to be alone with Toni. So it was still mostly the same.
Dave wasn't the only person they had to worry about, though. Andrew Johnson was as annoying as ever, perhaps even more now that they were older, and in highschool.
He would constantly make comments about Toni’s sexuality, calling her names, slurs , and other horrible things.
Normally, Shelby or Toni’s other friends would step in and calm Toni down before things got out out of hand. Shelby knew Toni deserved to hit the guy, hell, she wanted to as well, but he just wasn't worth it.
But one day, when Shelby and Toni were just talking by the brunettes locker, Toni said something that had Shelby laughing so hard that she had to grab onto Toni’s arm to steady herself while Toni stared at her with a soft look in her eye.
It was Andrew that started it, obviously, with a loud whistle as he walked by, “Hey Shelby! Has Shalifoe converted you yet?”
Shelby stopped laughing immediately and stiffened. Her arm dropped to her side as Toni’s face dropped, stomping over to where Andrew was standing.
“The fuck did you just say to her?” Toni growled with a push of Andrew's shoulders before Shelby, or anyone really, could stop her.
Andrew barked out a laugh and put his hands up in mock surrender, “Woah, calm down, it was just a joke. Unless you really swing that way, Shelby?” Andrew smirked, his eyes drifted from Toni to Shelby as he spoke.
Toni didn't even respond this time, she just grabbed the collar of his shirt and punched him square in the nose. Andrew stumbled back from the impact and brought a hand up to wipe at his now bleeding nose. He looked at Toni angrily and stormed back towards her, managing to land a good punch across Toni’s face before he was pulled away by his friends.
Toni stumbled back, coincidentally into Shelby’s arms, who dragged her to the girls bathroom and made her sit on the sink as she went and grabbed a medkit and ice pack from the nurses office.
When Shelby came back, she situated herself between Toni’s legs and made her hold the ice pack to her cheek as she cleaned up the bloody mess at Toni’s nose.
“You’re trouble, you know that?” Shelby sighed, a hint of playfulness in her tone. She wasn't actually mad at Toni, she just hated seeing her hurt.
“Yeah? Is it a good look on me?” Toni joked, a small smirk appeared on her lips. Shelby laughed softly and finished cleaning up Toni’s nose.
“Your best look,” Shelby murmured, she pulled Toni’s hand away from her bruised cheek and placed a soft, small delicate kiss on it.
“Shelby,” Toni sighed contently, she opened her mouth to speak again but Shelby cut her off with a hand cradling her jaw carefully.
“That is the last time you get hurt for me, you hear me?” Shelby said sternly, her hand on Toni’s jaw was still as soft as ever.
“But–” Toni started, her brow furrowing just slightly. “No buts. Promise me, Toni,” Shelby’s voice was firm when she spoke.
“I can’t promise that I won't protect you, Shelby. You can’t expect me to promise you that.” Toni said with a pleading look in her eye. It made Shelby's heart swell. How willing Toni was to protect her.
“I’m not. I’m asking you not to get hurt. Can you promise me that, at least?” The blonde asked softly, it was just then that Shelby realised how close she was to the brunette, but she found that she didn't care, she enjoyed it.
Toni swallowed harshly, “Yeah, fine, I promise,” her voice rough.
“Thank you.” Shelby whispered, pressing another kiss to Toni’s bruised cheek before she stepped away and cleaned the bloody tissues and medkit up.
When she turns back, Toni has her eyes squeezed shut and she’s digging the palm of her hand into her left eye.
“Hey, what’s wrong?” Shelby asked, stepping close to Toni again, reclaiming her spot between the brunette’s legs.
“You’re– you’re not scared of me, right, Shelby?” Toni asks hesitantly, her voice small, like she’s scared of the answer.
“No. No, of course not, Toni. Why would you think that?” Shelby responds softly.
“I know I’m not like, the calmest ever. Like I know my anger is a lot, and I know it’s a lot to deal with. I just– I don't know. It feels so uncontrollable sometimes like I just see red and I-” Toni rambled on, leaving the ice pack forgotten as she slid her hands over her face with a groan.
“Toni. You have never scared me, ever . If anything, all you’ve ever made me feel is safe. Yeah, you get angry, but that’s because you’re passionate and you care about the people you love.” Shelby said, cupping Toni’s cheeks to make her look at her.
“I feel like it’s the ugliest part of me.” Toni admitted, and when she met Shelby’s soft, concerned eye, she looked so small.
“I think it’s beautiful. Wanna see one of the ugliest parts of me?” Shelby asked, a small smile playing on her lips.
“What do you me-” Toni was cut off.
Shelby pulled her retainer out, leaving her without the two teeth that were situated at the front. Shelby smiled wide, giving Toni a good look.
Toni’s mouth dropped open a little, surprised at what she just saw. It took her a while to muster up the words she wanted to say.
Shelby grew uncomfortable under the long silence, so she popped her retainer back in, “Sorry. I know it’s weird. I just-”
“I think you still look pretty.” Toni blurted.
Shelby’s head shot up to meet Toni’s eyes, “Really?”
“Shelby, if you think the fact that you're missing some teeth makes you seem any less perfect to me, then you’re very wrong,” Toni said with a grin, pulling Shelby close to her and into her arms.
“I love you, Toni,” Shelby murmured.
“Yeah, I love you too,” Toni responds.
This was also the same day the nicknames stuck.
Toni and Andrew both got after school detentions for the fight. Shelby thought it was bullshit since Toni was just sticking up for herself and Shelby.
Shelby promised to pick Toni up from the detention and take them to get something to eat. Her dad thinks she's at Martha's for a school project.
Toni waltzed out of the school with a big grin on her face upon spotting Shelby’s car, which made Shelby smile even more.
“Hey Trouble,” Shelby said as Toni got into the passenger seat. Toni eyed her curiously at the nickname, her grin staying in place as her face grew confused.
“Trouble?” Toni questioned, shaking her head playfully when she got a nod from Shelby.
“Yeah. Like I said in the bathroom earlier today, you’re trouble. So that’s your new nickname,” Shelby grinned as she pulled out of the school parking lot and drove towards her and Toni’s favourite burger place.
“Can I give you a nickname?” Toni asked, her bottom lip pulled between her teeth. She thought for a moment after Shelby gave her a nod.
“Okay bee,” Toni finally said and Shelby’s heart swelled. She felt her cheeks grow warm and tried to shake it off.
“Why bee?” Shelby asked curiously, mirroring Toni’s look from earlier.
“Because y’know, Shel-bee, I dunno, I think it’s cute,” Toni replied as she played with her hands that were in her lap.
“Normally people just call me Shelbs if they wanna shorten my name, Toni.” Shelby said playfully, a dumb grin on her face again.
“Okay well, this can be our special thing, only I’ll call you bee,” Toni murmured, her eyes flickering from her hands to Shelby’s side profile.
“I’d like that a lot,” Shelby responded, a genuine smile spread across her face. Special things with Toni were her favourite kind of things. “Now play some music, you dork.”
“Your dork,” Toni corrected, pulling out her phone to connect it to the aux.
Shelby hummed softly and her heart swelled again. Who knew nicknames could feel so intimate?
Shelby knew it was trouble to let people think about her and Toni the way they did, but she couldn't find it in herself to care.
Toni joined the basketball team at the start of Sophomore year and was building her way up to becoming captain in Junior year.
Shelby has never missed a game, not one. But ever since the day the nicknames stuck, Shelby let herself get more enthusiastic about the games, in the name of school spirit, she told herself.
Who was she kidding? She really just wanted to see Toni smile, but she wouldn't admit that to anyone.
That game had been one of the biggest games of the year, since Junior year was coming to an end. It was a home game against one of Fort Travis’ biggest rivals.
Toni was a little ball of energy all day and Shelby thought it was so cute. Shelby knew their school would win if Toni had anything to do with it.
When they parted at the end of the day, Shelby gave her a tight hug, a kiss on the cheek and a “Good luck!” before she scurried away with Martha to get ready for the game.
Shelby decided to paint a big #3 on her left cheek. Normally, she’d hold up shared signs that say “GO TONI!” or something along the lines of that with Martha, but that time she’d decided to go all out. Along with a sign, for good measure.
Martha told her how cute and sweet she thought it was, and that made Shelby smile shyly.
When they got to the gym, it was already packed full with away and home supporters. Martha and Shelby quickly found their group and she felt Toni’s new friend, Fatin, give her a knowing look which made Shelby flush slightly.
They took their seats as they waited for the game to start. Shelby sat between Martha and Fatin, all the other girls surrounding them.
Soon enough, Toni and the rest of the team jogged out onto court and Shelby felt Toni’s eyes search for her in the crowd. When Toni’s eyes landed on her, a massive grin broke out onto her face upon seeing Shelby’s cheek. Shelby smiled shyly and gave her a small wave, which Toni winked to in response and Shelby felt herself blushing.
Toni was a beast on the court, whizzing past all her opponents with, what looked like, no difficulty. She wasn't even getting as angry as she normally does during games, and Shelby felt her heart swell with pride.
What really made Shelby flush was when Toni landed a 3 pointer and pointed to Shelby in the stands. There were a few whistles and Shelby could feel herself blushing furiously.
Around half-time, Fatin leaned in with a knowing smirk, “So, Blondie, you and Toni, huh?”
“What about me and Toni?” Shelby asked innocently, no one had ever actually asked anything about them before, but Shelby knew what people thought.
“She points to you every time she scores and you blush a sickening amount. You’re also practically eye fucking her sweaty ass.” Fatin said matter-of-factly, which made Shelby blush even more.
She didn't know how to feel about being called out like that, but as long as her daddy didn't know, what was the harm?
Shelby leaned into Fatin more and whispered, “No comment,” before pulling away and standing to cheer louder for Toni, who just got another point.
Fort Travis won 67-59, to nobody's surprise. As soon as the buzzer chimed, Shelby bolted onto the court and jumped into Toni’s arms. Toni spun her around with the biggest smile on her face and Shelby couldn't help but giggle uncontrollably.
Toni planted Shelby back on the ground and pulled back with a grin.
“Good job, superstar, I knew you’d win,” Shelby whispered, loud enough so Toni could hear throughout the commotion in the gym but quiet enough so only Toni could hear.
Shelby felt herself be pulled back in by the shorter girl, “Thanks bee, you’re like, my lucky charm. Can’t believe you wore my number,”
“Yeah? Do I suit it?” Shelby teased, tilting her head to the side a little so Toni could get a better look.
“You suit everything, bee, but especially my number,” Toni said, her voice low as she looked up at Shelby.
Shelby sucked in a sharp breath and pressed her lips together. She had the sudden urge to surge forward and capture Toni’s lips with her own, but she decided against it.
“Okay Trouble, go get a shower, you stink. We’ll get you outside,” Shelby giggled, pressing a soft kiss to the crown of Toni’s head before playfully pushing her away.
She should’ve known things couldn't have been that easy.
Shelby realised that maybe she was trouble instead.
Junior year had come to an end, and of course no better way to celebrate it than a massive party, huh?
Fatin’s parents were out of town so she threw the biggest rager Shelby had ever seen. She told her parents she was going to a movie night at Martha’s before leaving.
Shelby’s parents (her dad) monitored almost everything she bought, so she had nothing really ‘party attire’, as Fatin called it. So Fatin let Shelby borrow a short black skimpy dress and told her not to cause too much trouble with it on.
Shelby just laughed at Fatin’s crude joke and got ready at Martha’s. Toni was out celebrating with her teammates and told her friends she’d be arriving later with them.
When Martha and Shelby arrived, in Shelby's car, the party was already packed. The smell of strong alcohol and sweat hitting their noses as soon as they walked through the front door. Shelby immediately sought out Dot and gave her the car keys, since Dot promised to be the designated driver.
She talked to Dot for a bit before Dot told her to go have fun ‘but not too much fun’, which made Shelby giggle.
By the time Shelby circled back around to the living room, Toni and her teammates were walking through the door, still dressed in their jerseys. Shelby's breath caught in her throat at the sight of Toni.
Toni’s eyes quickly found her in the crowd and she made her way over with a grin. She stopped about arms length away from the blonde when she noticed her outfit. Toni gave her a long once over with her mouth slightly agape.
Shelby stepped closer, way closer than necessary and whispered a “Hey Trouble,” into Toni’s ear.
Toni’s hands slipped to Shelby’s waist and pulled her closer, “Where’d you get this dress?” Toni murmured, looking down between them at Shelby’s outfit once more.
“Fatin let me borrow it, she claimed I had nothing that was ‘party attire’ in my closet,” Shelby said, with a playful eye-roll, trying to ignore the way Toni’s hands were splayed protectively on her waist made her feel.
“Thank fuck for Fatin. You look gorgeous, can I get you a drink?” Toni asked sweetly, her voice raspier than usual.
Shelby nodded with a small “uh huh” and found herself being dragged away with Toni’s hand intertwined with her own.
“What’ll it be, gorgeous?” Toni rasped as she picked up bottles to inspect the labels.
“Surprise me,” Shelby said, biting her bottom lip slightly.
Toni raised her eyebrows in question but gave a nod and started making hers and Shelby’s drink.
“You say that to all the girls?” Shelby asked, not unkindly, just teasingly. It takes Toni a moment to realise what she’s referring to.
“Nope. Just my favourite.” Toni said almost too easily, throwing a wink at Shelby.
Shelby felt her cheeks twinge pink. “You mean favourites ?”
Toni just shook her head with a grin and handed the drink to her and Shelby took a cautious sip. It wasn’t bad, it was really good actually. It was fruity and the alcohol taste was tame. Shelby hummed and gave Toni an impressed look.
“That good, huh?” Toni teased when Shelby tipped her head back and downed the whole thing.
Shelby felt a drop of the drink fall down her chin from the cup, but before she could wipe it, Toni’s hand reached up and wiped it away using her thumb, then taking her thumb into her mouth, keeping her eyes locked on Shelby’s.
Shelby swallowed harshly and Toni quickly downed the rest of her own drink before pulling Shelby closer. “Dance with me?”
Not trusting her own voice, Shelby nodded and let Toni lead them to the makeshift dance floor in Fatin’s living room.
Toni’s hands were back on Shelby’s waist, splayed possessively, while Shelby’s arms were loosely around Toni’s neck.
They danced in silence for a while, content to just dance together, but then Toni spinned Shelby around so Shelby’s back was pressed against Toni’s front.
“This dress is driving me insane, you know that?” Toni groaned into Shelby’s bare shoulder, feeling Shelby shiver beneath her. “Everyone’s had their eyes on you since you walked in.”
“And you’re the one I’m dancing with,” Shelby murmured in response, placing her hands over the ones on her waist.
“Yeah it's making my ego pretty big right now,” Toni joked, her arms wrapping all the way around Shelby’s waist and cuddling into her from behind.
“You’re such an idiot,” Shelby hummed playfully. She turned in Toni’s arm as best she could before taking Toni’s face into her hands. “Can we get out of here? Go on a walk?”
Toni looked at her so softly that Shelby thought she might melt. Toni gave a small nod and led Shelby out of the house. “I’ll just text Marty and tell her not to worry then I’m all yours,”
Shelby smiled and nodded, then shivered when the cold finally hit her. She brought her arms up around herself to try and shake some heat into herself.
Toni must’ve noticed because she pulled her corduroy jacket off and slipped it over Shelby's shoulders.
“Oh no, Toni, you’ll freeze,” Shelby said guiltily, going to give Toni her jacket back.
Toni shook her head, “No, bee, you need it more, but if you're really worried we can swing by Marty’s and I’ll get a sweater?”
“Mm.” Shelby nodded, slipping the jacket on. “Can we go to that little clearin’ you showed me in Freshman year?”
“Of course, c’mon.” Toni said, holding out an arm for Shelby to hold onto.
By the time the pair got Toni a sweater and made their way to the clearing, the stars were out bright and clear. They sat down and watched the stars, Shelby’s head on Toni’s shoulder.
“Toni?” Shelby’s voice was shaky when she spoke.
“Hm?” Toni responded, shifting her head a little to look down at Shelby.
“You know the day you first showed me this?” Shelby said, lifting her hand and intertwining it with Toni’s.
“The day I came out to you?” Toni asked, stroking her thumbs over Shelby’s knuckles.
“Yeah.”
A silence stretched between them, not necessarily an uncomfortable one.
“I wasn't completely honest that day,” Shelby admitted, her voice small.
Toni’s thumb stopped stroking, but she didn't pull away. “How do you mean?”
The silence returned, for longer this time as Shelby tried to find her voice.
“I– I think I do too.” Shelby finally said, squeezing her eyes shut.
“Huh?” Toni asked dumbly, looking at Shelby curiously.
“Toni.” Shelby said.
“Yeah?” Toni’s eyes widened as she realised, her thumb started stroking again, “Oh. Oh. ”
Toni pulled Shelby into her arms, rubbing soothing circles on her back. “That’s okay, Shelby, you know that right? There's nothing wrong with that.” Toni found herself saying.
Shelby sniffled and nodded, “I know. I’m just so scared, Toni. You know what he’s like.”
“I know, bee, I know. But you have me, okay? And you have Martha, and Becca and Fatin and Dot and all the other girls. You’re not alone.” Toni whispered comfortingly, pressing a kiss into Shelby’s hair.
“But what– what if he takes you guys away? What if he takes me away?” Shelby was tearing up now, hiccuping through her sentence.
“Then we’ll figure it out, together, yeah?” Toni promised, pulling Shelby impossibly closer.
“I can’t lose you, Toni, I can’t,” Shelby sobbed, grasping Toni’s sweater.
“You won’t, I promise. You’ll never lose me.” Toni murmured, she pressed more kisses to the crown of Shelby’s head.
When Shelby finally calmed down, she looked up at Toni, who stroked her cheek with her thumb, wiping away stray tears. “God, you’re beautiful,”
A shy smile broke out onto Shelby’s face, dropping her head back into the crook of Toni’s neck, “Even after cryin’ my eyes out on your shoulder and getting your favourite sweater all wet?”
Toni nodded, a genuine look of adoration on her face, “I’ve always thought you were beautiful, Shelby. Even the parts you think are ugly.”
“Toni,” Shelby whispered, her eyes flickering from the brunette’s eyes to her lips.
Toni licked her lips, nodding a little, “Yeah?”
Shelby leaned in slightly, “I’ve always thought you were beautiful too. Even when we were kids.”
“God, Shelby,” Toni muttered, her voice low.
“Toni,” Shelby sighed as she leaned in even more, feeling Toni’s warm breath against her face, “I think I’ve loved you since we were kids.”
Toni’s breath caught in her throat at the admission, she leaned forward and closed the distance between them, capturing Shelby’s lips in a slow, soft kiss.
When they pulled away for air, Toni rested her forehead against Shelby’s, “Me too.”
Shelby grinned and pressed her lips against Toni’s once more, feeling her smile through the kiss.
“I’ve wanted to do that for so long,” Shelby admitted, her shy smile returning, along with her flushed cheeks.
“So have I. Ever since your 13th birthday party, I think.” Toni murmured, looking down at the scorpius constellation bracelet Shelby still wore.
“Told you I’d never take it off,” Shelby said playfully, earning a grin and a quick peck from Toni.
They laid in each other's arms for a while, watching the stars, Toni pointing out constellations and sharing kisses before deciding to head back to Martha’s.
Shelby thought it was the most perfect moment of her life.
It’s a month and a few weeks into summer break and Toni hasn't heard from Shelby since that night. Saying she was worried was an understatement, and everyone could see that.
It wasn't just Toni who’s heard nothing, nobody has. Complete radio silence from Shelby since Fatin’s end of year rager.
Of course, Toni had tried to get in touch, she even tried going over to Shelby’s house, but all she was met with was a cold “Don’t come here again, Toni.” from Dave that made Toni’s blood run cold.
Toni tried texting Shelby, but after getting turned away at the house she knew there was no use. The last text Shelby sent her was from that night.
trouble 🏀🔭
hope u got home safe bee, love u
bee 🐝❤️🩹
I just did, thank you Toni :) Love you, goodnight
trouble 🏀🔭
ofc beautiful. goodnight :)
Toni sighs as she re-reads the messages. She misses Shelby so fucking much and is so hurt. She knows Shelby definitely isn’t at fault but it still hurts.
She tries to distract herself. She thinks about texting Rachel and asking if she'd be up for shooting some hoops or going to the gym, but then as a big gust of wind hits against the trailer that her foster parents have banished her to, she remembers about the storm.
It's been all over the news for days, everyone being told to stay inside and only leave the house if completely necessary. So Toni’s been holed up in her sorry excuse of a trailer the full day.
She opts to take a shower and change into fresh, warm pajamas instead. She goes for an old beat up basketball hoodie and red plaid pajama pants.
She puts on Glee , because she and Shelby used to watch it together constantly, courtesy to Shelby. She thinks about leaving Shelby another text, or even calling her when she hears an urgent knock on the door.
She gets up reluctantly, wondering who the hell would be bothering her at this time, in the middle of a fucking storm–
Toni swings the trailer door open, ready to tell whoever it is to get lost when she sees her.
Shelby.
After 7 weeks of complete radio silence, she’s there, standing in front of Toni. Sopping wet from the storm, shivering in a thin t-shirt and jeans, her makeup running.
“Shelby?” Toni says softly, reaching a hand out for Shelby to take. When she does, Toni pulls her into the trailer and into her arms.
Toni notices that Shelby's not just shivering, she’s sobbing too. Toni holds her tighter and rocks her in her arms.
“Shhh, it’s okay, I’m here now. You’re safe,” Toni murmurs into wet blonde hair, pressing a few kisses to her head as she speaks.
After a moment, she reluctantly pulls away, “Gonna get you a towel and fresh clothes, is that okay?”
Shelby just sniffles and nods, detaching herself from Toni and wrapping her arms around herself.
Toni rushes away, turning the heater up and grabbing clothes and a towel. She makes her way back to Shelby and wraps the towel around her, pulling her into her arms and rubbing her arms to help her get warmer.
They stand like this for a while, Toni continuing to press kisses to Shelby’s head. Soon, Shelby is dry enough and Toni lets her change in the bathroom.
In the meantime, Toni fills a glass up with cold water and makes her bed more presentable. She gets under the covers and waits for Shelby.
When Shelby reappears in one of Toni’s hoodies and some sweatpants, Toni can’t help but look at her fondly. She’s so gorgeous, Toni thinks. Toni pulls a corner of the comforter up and opens her arms, inviting Shelby in.
Shelby doesn't hesitate to climb into Toni’s arms and wrap herself around her, nuzzling closer when Toni presses a kiss to her head.
“Drink this then we’ll talk, yeah?” Toni murmurs into blonde hair before reaching for the glass of water. Shelby nods and takes the water, drinking it carefully.
Toni places the glass away to the side when Shelby finishes with it, pulling her closer. “God, I was so fucking worried, Shelby,”
“I know. I’m sorry,” Shelby sniffles.
“What happened? Where’d you go?” Toni asks, and her voice is so soft, so delicate, as if she's scared Shelby will break if she’s not.
“He found out.” Shelby swallows, “I don’t know how, but he did.”
Toni’s heart drops to her stomach. She doesn't speak, she just nods and presses another kiss to Shelby’s head, waiting for her to continue.
“He wanted to send me away. To some conversion camp that he coincidentally runs,” Shelby scoffs, “But mama wouldn't let him. That's the first time she's ever really stood up to him y’know?”
“Oh, Shelby. Fuck. I’m so sorry,” Toni whispers, but Shelby just shakes her head.
“He said that if I wasn't gonna change, he wasn't gonna let me see you again. I was at the top of the stairs when he turned you away that day. God, Toni, all I wanted to do was run into your arms when I saw you.” Shelby admits, burying her head into Toni’s shoulder.
“Fuck Shelby,” Toni swallows sadly, her voice rough.
“He had me goin’ to these anti-gay semanors right under my mama’s nose. He took my phone away and wouldn't let any of my friends see me. He was determined to change me himself,” Shelby scoffs again, but this time her voice is sadder.
“I knew there was something up. I didn't know what to do, bee, I was so scared for you. I thought he took you away,” Toni chokes the last bit out as she pulls Shelby even closer.
“Lord, Toni, I missed you so much,” Shelby says softly, grasping onto Toni’s hoodie and lifting her head up to press a soft kiss to the brunette’s jaw.
“I wish I could have been there. How are you here?” Toni asks, softly intertwining her fingers with one of the hands that were previously grasping her hoodie.
“Mama heard me cryin’ real hard, so she came in and I told her everythin’, Toni. Everythin’ about who I am and how I feel about you. About what my daddy’s been doin’. She was distraught, told me she’d get me my phone and let me go see you.” Shelby starts, her eyes glossy, like she’s holding back tears.
Toni just runs her hand up and down her back soothingly, running her fingers through blonde locks as Shelby goes to speak again.
“He found out, like he always does. He– he um, he hit me, right in front of Mel and Spence. Told me I was ruinin’ this family .” Toni feels her body stiffen at the admission, but she knows she needs to be comforting now, she can get angry later.
“My mama, for the first time in her life, stopped being the perfect little trophy wife and stood up for me. Told him not to lay his hands on me ever again.” At this, Toni relaxes a little, glad that someone put Dave in his place, at least a little.
“He asked her if she ‘ approved of my lifestyle ’,” Shelby shudders, “She said that she can see how happy you're makin’ me and how that’s all she’s ever wanted, and what he should want too.”
Shelby pauses for a moment just to look up at Toni. And she really does look like she’s been through it, but Toni thinks she’s so beautiful, she tells her this much.
“He hits her too. Starts screamin’ about me bein’ a disappointment, that if I really loved my family I’d try to change. He basically disowned me, so I left. I don’t know where I stand with my mama. Or Mel and Spence. But I had to get outta there, come see you,” Shelby finishes, sniffling again.
Toni takes it all in. Shelby got outed, went through hell for 7 weeks, basically got disowned and still chose Toni in the end.
“You really thought I was worth all that?” Toni asks, her voice small and shy as if she’s scared of the answer.
“Oh, Toni, of course I do. You’ve always seen the real me, not the version I wanted everyone to see, you saw me. And you still fell in love with me.” Shelby responds, looking at Toni so softly while speaking.
“How could I not?” Toni says, pressing a gentle kiss to Shelby’s head for what feels like the millionth time that night, which Shelby leans into and sighs contently.
“I think what took me so long to confess my feelings was because I felt like if I was trapped like I was before, with him, I couldn't have been good for you. And that’s all I want, Toni, to be good for you, like you’ve always deserved.” Shelby murmurs, staring into Toni’s eyes like they’re the most interesting things in the world.
Toni’s gaze softens even more than it was before, and she cups Shelby’s cheek so delicately. Then she pulls Shelby in slowly and presses the softest kiss to Shelby’s lips.
“God, I missed that,” Toni admits in a whisper, earning a shy smile from Shelby.
Shelby leans in again, “Mm, me too,” she hums against Toni’s lips.
When they part, Shelby yawns and lays her head back down on Toni’s chest, tightening her grip around Toni’s waist.
“Are you tired?” Toni asks softly, she then gets a nod from the blonde, “Get some rest then maybe tomorrow we can go grab some of your stuff? You can stay here? I know it’s not much but it's something,”
Shelby hums gently at Toni’s proposal, “I’d like that. We should go when he’s not home.”
Toni nods, stroking her fingers through blonde hair, “Get some sleep, bee, I’m gonna let the girls know you’re here and okay, alright?”
Shelby just nods sleepily and shuffles a little. It doesn't take her long to fall asleep, and Toni smiles softly. Toni thinks she looks so beautiful and at peace.
She pulls her phone out of her pocket and opens up the gays & becca groupchat, the name was Fatin’s idea. It consists of the Unsinkable 8 and Becca, obviously.
Toni takes a quick picture of a sleeping Shelby on her chest and writes she’s okay and safe before sending it.
The replies flood in quickly.
becca
Thank the lord!! Tell her we love her
marty b 🐢
oh my gosh i’m so glad
dot 🤙
thank fuck dude i was so worried
fatin the bitch 🖕
SHONI IS REUNITED 🙏🌈
no but for real i’m super glad she’s okay
leah
Fatin stop
Anyway tell Shelby I miss her
rachel
thank god lol
nora
I’m glad.
toni 🏀
lol i will guys, she’s passed out. glad to see her so peaceful
fatin the bitch 🖕
awww. how gay
rachel
fatin shut up u want leah so bad it makes u look stupid
dot 🤙
oh shit 💀💀💀💀
toni 🏀
lmfao deserved
fatin the bitch 🖕
literally die
Toni puts her phone away before she gets dragged into the argument, opting to just lay with Shelby, slowly falling asleep.
Shelby realises she loves trouble.
It’s her 18th birthday. She wakes up to a spam of Happy Birthday! messages which make her smile, even though she’s trying to cope with this being her first birthday away from her childhood home.
That quickly gets stored into the back of her mind when Toni stirs, her arms around Shelby tightening.
“Happy birthday, bee,” Toni whispers sleepily into her shoulder.
“Good mornin’, babe,” Shelby whispers, turning and pressing a sweet kiss to Toni’s lips.
“I have something for you,” Toni mumbles, pressing another kiss to Shelby’s lips before turning and rummaging through her bedside drawer.
“Hm?” Shelby hums curiously, trying to peak over Toni’s frame to see what she’s looking for.
Toni turns back around with a small box in her hand, extending it for Shelby to take, “This is so cheesy but the whole thought process behind this gift is that I’ve loved you ever since your 13th birthday party, maybe even before that but I really realised it then and I got you a bracelet then so I got you one now but it’s like kind of an us thing I don't know like a basketball and a bee? Like matching bracelets? Is that super dumb? I’m sorry it’s super dumb I-”
“Toni,”
“I can go replace it-”
“Toni!”
“I- yeah?”
“I love it. I love you. Thank you,” Shelby says, admiring their new matching bracelets, a soft twinkle in her eye.
Toni lets out a sigh of relief, “Really?”
“So much. You rambled this much on my 13th birthday too,” Shelby says with a laugh. She leans over and presses another long kiss to Toni’s lips. Then a few short pecks for good measure.
“God, you’re so right. That was so embarrassing, I wanted you to like it so bad,” Toni admits, looking down at her hands shyly.
“I thought it was cute. You were cute, you got all nervous,” Shelby giggles, “Tryna impress me, huh?”
“ Ugh , you’re the worst,” Toni groans playfully, running her hands over her face, “Let me put your bracelet on,”
Shelby’s big, teasing grin turns into a soft, genuine smile, letting Toni take the basketball bracelet and fasten it to her wrist.
“Looks perfect,” Toni smiles and lifts Shelby’s hand to press her lips to it. Shelby’s heart tightens at the gesture, pulling Toni into her and kissing her lips.
They bump heads a little which causes them both to giggle into the kiss, and Shelby’s heart feels warm.
“Let me put yours on?” Shelby asks when they pull away.
Toni nods and Shelby grabs the bee bracelet and fastens it, mirroring Toni’s actions by pulling her hand up and pressing a soft kiss to it.
Toni grins and kisses Shelby again before standing and extending a hand out to her girlfriend.
“Cmon. Let’s get ready. Big day ahead, bee.”
The ‘big day ahead’ consists of driving to their favourite burger place and ordering burgers for breakfast. Toni declares it as a rebellion against Dave . It makes Shelby smile. When they finish their food, they head over to Fatin’s, all the other girls already there. They sing happy birthday to Shelby, bring her cake and give her gifts. Shelby’s favourite moment is when Dot brings up how embarrassing gay Toni was for Shelby when they were all 13. Toni hides her face in the crook of Shelby’s neck and tells Dot to fuck off.
After staying a while at the party, Toni drives Shelby to Jobeth’s new apartment. With the divorce being finalised and all, Jobeth and the kids had to get out of that house. Toni greets Jobeth and the kids before leaving and promising she’ll be back to pick her up at 7.
Shelby adores the time she spends with her mom and siblings, already feeling like this is her most magical birthday yet.
Toni keeps her promise, picking her up at 7, but not in her car… in Dot’s truck? Shelby grins curiously at her girlfriend, eyebrows raised as she nods towards the vehicle.
“You’ll see. Get in, beautiful,” Toni says sweetly, holding Shelby’s door open for her.
They (Shelby) play Taylor Swift on the way to wherever they’re going, Shelby singing along to every song and Toni admiring her when she can.
Eventually they pull up to a clearing, not just any clearing, their clearing. Oh, how Shelby’s always loved having secret little things only she and Toni know about.
“Wait right here,” Toni says, pressing a soft kiss to Shelby’s lips and slipping out of the truck.
She hears some rummaging around in the back, a loud bang and a pained ‘ Shit!’ from her girlfriend that makes her burst out laughing.
Toni comes back around and opens Shelby’s door for her, leading her to the back of the truck. The bed is super done up, a bunch of blankets and pillows, snacks and junk food and Toni’s laptop.
Shelby grins and pulls Toni into a searing kiss. Holding her close when they part, pressing a few soft pecks afterwards. Their hot breath visible in the air due to the cold.
“I love you so much, Toni,” Shelby says breathlessly, her fingers playing with the baby hairs sat at Toni’s neck.
“God, I love you too, Shelby, so much,” Toni responds, wrapping her girlfriend in her arms and spinning her. Shelby lets her head fall back and she squeals delightfully. Toni feels so loved in that moment, and like she can give so much love too.
They climb into the makeshift bed and Toni reluctantly puts on Titanic because it’s Shelby’s favourite movie and it’s her birthday. And she’s a simp. Whipped, even.
They watch the stars. Well, Toni watches the stars and points them out, spewing out random facts about each one and Shelby watches her with such intent, such admiration, it makes Toni’s heart burst.
“You’ve learnt so much more from when we were kids,” Shelby jokes and Toni realises she’s talking about the time in her bed 5 years ago.
“Is it too much?” Toni says, suddenly self conscious.
Shelby leans over and kisses Toni’s cheek softly, “Never. Keep going, please, I love hearing what you have to say,”
Toni smiles so big at that, pressing a kiss to Shelby’s head, which is now currently laid on her chest.
As Toni drones on about the stars, Shelby can’t help but think about how she lied to Toni on her 13th birthday.
The bracelet wasn't the best gift she’d ever received. Toni’s love was. And that’s a gift she’d never let go, no matter how hard it got.
She was so hopelessly in love with and entranced by Toni Shalifoe, and she couldn't help but feel so lucky that Toni loves her of all people.
Shelby falls asleep, thinking about the small, awkward, grumpy Toni Shalifoe she once knew, and how completely infatuated she was with her now.
Toni was trouble, but Shelby knows that she’s the best kind of trouble.