to share being on the peaky blinders set with natalia, someone who knew exactly how much the show and project meant to charlie, who'd watched with him as each season of highs and lows build a small place in his heart specifically for the show, it just gave being part of the new generation an extra layer of sentiment that charlie knew wouldn't be there without natalia herself. and the fact that natalia was so visibly happy for him, happy to see him on set and in costume, charlie found it impossible not to smile. "still working on them letting me sleep here," he joked, almost surprised at how easily they fell back into their usual back and forth despite the time away, and that they could still be a source of comfort for one another. even if natalia had known how seriously charlie took this project and every one he'd been part of, for that matter, he still didn't gracefully accept compliments about his talent, let alone agree that he belonged on a set like this. he always saw himself as lucky, if anything, and he certainly make sure he soaked up every bit of the experience he had there, that he'd take nothing for granted. "we'll agree to disagree," he told natalia with a grin, knowing he'd never get her to agree he was just lucky to be there and part of the cast. "but i'll give you the rest of that, because i've definitely been dreaming about this role ever since i first watched the show. and to think, now i'm part of the shelby family. i still can't believe it." the words were almost akin to a confession, one he felt like he could only share with natalia, that she was one of the few who'd understand the gravity of the project for him.
charlie just knew natalia would be excited about a visit to the set that stood as the garrison, and her almost child-like excitement in her reaction was the only confirmation he'd needed. "i would never joke about anything as serious as the garrison, i promise," he told her as they walked arm in arm, with charlie guiding the way around a set it was still surreal for him to be somewhat familiar. it only felt right to give natalia a little piece of wardrobe, even if the flat cap didn't quite fit and caused charlie to chuckle when she'd adjusted it to look up at him. "are you already talking about stealing things from set?" charlie asked in an effort to be a little indignant, although his struggling to keep away a smile gave away that he wasn't the least bit serious. "you lasted longer on set than i did. have a whole list of items i'd love to pocket, though i don't know that anything to do with charlie heaton will earn you any admiration," he teased, continuing to guide the way towards the set as they continued to fall into an easy back and forth. "i mean, it's been a dream so far. you know i can't talk much about the actual story, but it's been great working with these folks to tell it. can't have a better cast here, honestly." as soon as they reached doorway that led to the garrison portion of the set, charlie stopped to pull it open for natalia. "after you," he added with a flourish, momentarily unlinking their arms so she could pass through the doorway first. as charlie followed behind her, he smiled at the familiarity of the space, the wood beams, chairs, and tables gently illuminated by both natural lighting and the lights integrated into the set. a few members of the crew were still milling about in the space, finishing up for the day, and charlie gave them a cordial nod while also looking to make sure the two of them didn't interfere with their duties in any way. instead, charlie circled behind the bar, smiling at natalia as he rested his arms on its surface. "so, what'll it be?"