Firstly I want to thank you all for your patience with this chapter and once again apologise for leaving it for so long that was not my intention. It's been a crazy, busy and emotional week after the death in my family, so I am sorry it has taken so long. You'll understand when you start reading why this chapter was so hard for me to write.
SO this chapter is the penultimate one, this should tie up all the loose ends, it also has flashbacks which I hope doesn't confuse anyone. This chapter is also over 9,000 words, I wanted to make it all up to you... and the last chapter will be the epilogue. Anyway I hope you all enjoy this as always and thank you for all your support!


One week later.

Oliver stood at the podium. He couldn't do this. He'd lost nearly everything. He searched around the crowd seeing the broken faces of Tommy, his mother, and of course Thea. He closed his eyes briefly. They had blamed the bombs on a terrorist attack. With Malcolm dead Oliver didn't want Tommys already few good memories of his father tarnished even further. They had lied to protect everyone.

Robert was there to try to catch up with some work but after seeing someone strange leaving the basement he followed and so did Malcolm who wanted his "best friend" to take it easy. They were the ones that alerted the authorities to the bomb, and attempted to defuse it. Miss Smoak was in the building to see Mr Queen about a reference; she was helping them to defuse the bomb.

They were all accidental casualties. Oliver gripped the podium hard, none of these people knew about his part in this. None of them knew the truth. How could he stand there and make a speech that would be full of lies? The silence was deadly. Oliver hated it. He closed his eyes then opened them. He had to do this.

"My father..." He shook his head. "He called me, whilst he was in there, he told me several things. He told me to tell my mother," he stared at Moira, whose eyes stuck to his as Walter comforted her, "that he was sorry for everything. Told me to tell Thea," Thea stared at him as Roy wrapped his arms around her and she leant in to his touch as the tears filled her eyes, "that he loved you, and that you could accomplish anything." He swallowed hard as he looked away from the crowd in front of him. He let his head drop as he tried not to think of that day.

"He told me he loved me and that I was a better man than him, that I could make a difference." Oliver stepped away from the podium and headed towards the coffin being held above its grave. "But he was wrong, he sacrificed himself to save us all, to save his family, his company's staff, and the entire city." His hand dropped to the coffin. "So if I am half the man that he turned out to be in the end than I think I'm doing well."He let his eyes drop to his hand. "He might not have been the best father but he certainly turned out to be the finest by the end."

Oliver took a deep breath and walked back to his seat beside Thea. They watched as the coffin was lowered into the ground. The dark clouds threatening rain made the atmosphere and mood even more sombre. Oliver had to be strong for his family, they needed him now.

They had made their way back inside Queen Mansion. Everyone came to give their condolences, many whispering about the state of the company. How could he possibly manage QC? How could he carry on with any of this whilst carrying these secrets alone? Tommy and Laurels presence by his side brought him out his thoughts.

"Hey man, how you holding up?" Tommy asked.

"Fine. How about yourself?" Oliver could see the same confused and lost expression in Tommys eyes that matched his own.

"Same."

"I'm glad you came even though you only buried your dad yesterday." Tommys hand landed on his back.

"You're my best friend; you were there for me yesterday so of course I'm..." He glanced at Laurel. "We're here." Oliver nodded slowly taking a steady breath.

"If you need anything Ollie you just have to call." Laurel said softly. "I mean we can all help each other right?"

"Thank you Laurel." He said giving her a small smile.

The main doors opening caused Oliver to look up. Before he even had a chance to say anything he was on his feet walking towards the latest guests. His heart pounded when he saw Diggle, and then his gaze fell to the blonde beside him. He didn't even think, he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her in. Felicity hesitated and Oliver let her go as if he had been burnt from her touch.

"Sorry I'm late... Dig took me to my doctor's appointment-"

"You had a doctor's appointment? Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because it's your father's funeral and I am fine-"

"The baby?" He asked feeling his throat closing from the panic.

"We're both fine." She said with a slight frown. "But how are you?"

"I'm fine." He lied and she hated that he was keeping her closed off. "What did the doctors say?"

"Baby's heartbeat is still there and strong. I'll have my first scan in a few weeks." He nodded, his heart aching, her first scan would be in London. "And the cuts and bruises are healing fine too. So seriously I'm okay Oliver." He nodded.

Diggle was glancing between the two; he knew they needed to talk. Since the day of the "terrorist" attack they hadn't spoken, not properly, in fact this was the first time they had seen each other since it all played out.


Diggle pulled Oliver up off the floor.

"Oliver come on we need to get you checked out." Oliver pulled away.

"No! I need to find her Dig." His eyes were pleading as he coughed the dust making his lungs ache.

"Oliver we both know nothing has made it out of there alive." Diggle said holding Olivers arms. He felt him tense up immediately as Oliver shook his head.

"No!" He pulled out his grasp running towards the building when he heard a female voice.

"Oliver?" Her voice pleaded. "Oliver!" He wasn't responding to Shado he had to get to Felicity.

"Oliver..." Felicity's voice cut through.

"Felicity?"

"I'm okay... My comms broke. Come back."

"Where are you?"

"Back where you were." He span around and ran back through the dust. He could see 3 figures through the haze and when he saw her blonde hair he launched himself at her. Her arms wrapped around his neck as his wrapped around her back and pulled her close. His face fell into her hair and he couldn't help the sobs of relief.

"Hey hey, I'm fine, just dusty and a few cuts and bruises." Oliver took a deep breath.

"How?"

"Shado." She replied. Oliver glanced to the black haired lady who was also fighting back the tears.

"I got back before you, the bike the traffic everything was in my favour. I slipped through the guards and I helped get her out."

"Thank you." She gave him a sharp nod in response knowing full well how much this all meant to him.

"I think we need to go to the hospital guys. Get you all checked out." Diggle said softly. "Get the baby checked out." Oliver left his arm around her waist helping support her weight on her ankle as the two nodded in unison.


"I think I'll give you two a chance to catch up." Diggle said.

"No it's okay I have to speak to the rest of the mourners," Oliver stepped back, "thank you for coming, both of you." And he disappeared into the other room.

"Dig..."

"Hey, he's grieving; he blames himself for you and the baby ending up in hospital. For leaving you there-"

"His family needed him. I had Chloe and Ray." Diggle smiled softly.

"I know that but he promised he'd always be there and after the hospital he just... He seemed unable to face you."

"I know, but after everything I wasn't expecting this to be easy Dig. I'm pregnant with his child, and I don't even know how he feels." Diggle raised an eyebrow sceptically and crossed his arms. "What?"

"You two really need to talk and sooner rather than later!" He replied as they stepped in to the room.

She felt everyone's eyes on her. She could see them whispering, none of them knew about her pregnancy, so no one could understand why Malcolm and Robert would stay behind to die and let her live. There were speculations of affairs and basically Felicity's reputation took a nose dive. She held her head high; she had nothing to be ashamed of, not really. But still she couldn't help the feeling of guilt rising in her chest. She made her way over to the bar.

"Felicity." Tommy said with a soft smile.

"Tommy." She replied as he pulled her in for a hug. "I'm so sorry Tommy." She said sympathetically trying to fight the tears. She knew it was better for him to not know the truth, to believe his father died a hero rather than a monster. That's why she wore the long cardigan covering her burnt wrists. Why she had remained quiet on everything, that and the pregnancy of course.

"It isn't your fault." He said slowly letting her go.

"None of it is your fault Fliss." Felicity turned her head around to see Thea stood there, her eyes red and puffy from tears. The look in her eyes made her heart break further.

"What are you doing here?" Moiras voice came loud and clear silencing the entire room as she marched over to Felicity.

"Oliver invited me." Felicity stuttered out.

"You shouldn't be here Miss Smoak."

"I... Why? I'm here to help a friend grieve." Moira snickered slightly.

"Suddenly interested in your friend now he's going to be CEO." Felicitys mouth fell open. Did she really think after everything that she was after Olivers money?

"I didn't even know... I don't care about Olivers money. I never have. I..."

"Or are you here to ease your conscious over getting Robert and Malcolm killed?" She spat out. Felicity froze. The pain in her chest became unbearable.

"Moira I think that-" Walter tried to intervene.

"No Walter. I want to know why Miss Smoak here managed to get out that basement alive when Robert and Malcolm lost their lives." The tears fell down Felicitys cheeks she couldn't help it. "You abandoned them."

"Mum." Thea said sharply but one look from Moira had her squirming. Felicity glanced around the room. Everyone was staring; she looked at Thea and Tommy. She could see the questions in their eyes; she was the only one who could ease this burden. She closed her eyes briefly.

"You left them to die Miss Smoak didn't you? To save yourself!"

"I didn't... I tried to help them; Robert got stuck in the device... I... I tried to defuse it, tried to get him out but the movement would have set it off." She looked between them all. "Malcolm wouldn't leave him." She lied.

"But you did!" Moira snapped.

"I didn't want to... I... They made me."

"I don't believe that for a second. You left them to die!" A small cry escaped her lips.

"MOTHER!" Olivers voice boomed from the other side of the room. He rushed over to the group; he didn't even hesitate in standing between Felicity and his mum.

"Leave her alone." Felicity side stepped him.

"No it's okay."

"Felicity-"

"I don't need you to protect me Oliver. You haven't exactly been there for me," She said looking up at him, she saw the hurt flash in his eyes before his stoic expression slipped back in place. "I didn't mean it like that-"

"No it's fine." He took a step back. Moira looked between the two.

"I did let them die." There were gasps throughout the room. "There was a 10 minute counter and I tried desperately to get Robert out. I swear I did... But he... He and Malcolm they told me to go..." She looked between Thea and Tommy as she spoke. "And the reason they made me leave them is because I'm pregnant." The whole room fell silent.

"Who's the father? Was it one of theirs?" Moira asked. Felicity frowned.

"No, oh god no, not that they were unattractive or anything, I just meant they were old enough to be my father and that is just not my thing..." She saw the smile on Tommys face at her babble his hand reached for her shoulder silencing her.

"Well?" Moira demanded.

"Olivers... It's Olivers." Moiras mouth fell open. Felicity wrapped her arms around herself. She didn't hesitate, she turned on her heels and started heading for the exit. Oliver went to go after her till his mothers hand slipped around his wrist.

"Are you certain it's yours Oliver?" He frowned.

"Mother! That woman practically saved my life after the accident. You know how I feel about her, and not a single part of me doubts that child isn't mine."

"But Oliver you know how some people can be." Her voice dropped low now the crowd had started to chat away again.

"Felicity has never been like that mother. She doesn't care about money and wealth, she cares about people. She used to care about me, until I blew it and now she's going to London, I might not see much of my own child and I'm pretty sure you just ruined any chance of that not happening." Moiras mouth fell open.

"We can get our lawyers on this; we can fight her-"

"No! You have done enough; it's her life I've tried to make decisions for her for too long. I just have to accept that I'm not a part of Felicitys life and the child we have won't get the family it deserves." Moira stared at her sons broken eyes, she thought all this time he had been grieving the loss of his father but she was wrong. He was grieving the fact he had lost Felicity and their child, he had lost a family he hadn't even known he wanted till it became a reality.

"Oliver-"

"It's fine mother, I'm just going outside. I need some air." He walked away then breezing passed his mother, Tommy, Laurel, and Walter, heading straight outside.
Felicity was just about to grab the door handle when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She glanced back to see the sad face of Thea.

"Fliss don't go."

"I'm not wanted here Thea, your mum, even Oliver."

"Please let's talk." Thea pleaded. Felicity owed her that at least. She turned around and Thea led the way down the corridor and into the library where this had all began.


"So you're pregnant?" Felicity nodded, "and it's Oliver and yours baby." Felicity nodded again and before she knew it Thea was wrapping her arms around her into a tight hug. "I'm going to be an auntie, congratulations." She whispered as she let go. Felicity gave her a soft smile.

"I'm sorry about your dad."

"Fliss, it isn't your fault. My father he wasn't the best but he protected you, both of you. He finally made the right choice. He saved his grandchild and the woman his son loves."

"Oliver doesn't love me Thea." Felicity whispered looking away.

"Why do you say that?"

"Because he broke things off, and he only found out I was pregnant a week ago, and he's been so distant, so cold. I know he's grieving and that's fine but he doesn't want this." She gestured up and down herself. "He doesn't want a family and I am not going to be the woman that traps him. I'm not like that Thea. I don't want anything from him-"

"Do you love him?" Thea asked stopping her. She stared at her a little bewildered.

"It doesn't matter how I feel Thea, he made that clear when we broke up."

"I don't know why you broke up, but I do know how closed off my brother can be, nobody has ever broken through those walls of his like you." Felicity snickered.

"Seriously I don't think he's ever really gotten over you."

"We've only been broken up not even a few months Thea..."

"I meant from your university days." Felicitys mouth fell open.

"What? That was a long time ago and we... We weren't anything." She said shaking her head.

"I think you underestimated how much you affected his life. How you still affect his life."

"Thea, Oliver and I were two different people back then-"

"Yes but somehow you had my brother hooked." Felicity knew Thea didn't know about Oliver's history about her being his job but she was intrigued and she hated mysteries.

"How? He left after university. I never saw him again." Thea gave her a sad smile.

"Is that what you think?"

"No that's what I know." Felicity frowned.

"My brother when he came back from university he locked himself away. For 3 weeks we never saw him, we all started to worry but the day of his graduation he was there. Fake smile back in place ready to face the world."

"So?"

"After graduation he started partying, he'd drink till he passed out then sleep all day and wake up and start all over again." Thea shook her head as she remembered.

"So he went back to how he was?"

"No there were never any women, in the press he was seen with some but he never brought any ladies back. Naturally our family was worried, so they spoke to Tommy, asked him to talk to him."

"And?"

"That was the night I first heard your name." Felicitys eyes widened with shock.


Thea was stood behind the half open door to Olivers room, she knew she shouldn't be eavesdropping but she was also worried about her brother.

"Ollie you've got to stop."

"Why? We were always the life and soul of the party Tommy." Oliver said as he slipped into his suit jacket.

"No, we used to drink for fun, to get girls, to enjoy life. This," he gestured towards Oliver, and the state of his room. "This isn't that."

"You sound just like my parents." Oliver said as he poured himself out a glass of vodka. Tommy picked up the glass before he had a chance to touch it. "Hey! If you wanted one you could have just asked." Oliver grabbed another glass and without warning Tommy pulled the bottle from his hands.

"Stop!"

"What the hell Tommy!"

"I know we've drunk to forget some things but for 3 solid weeks never."

"And your point is?" Thea could hear draws opening and closing, clearly he was searching for other bottles.

"First you disappear for 3 weeks, then you come to graduation and now you've been a drunken idiot for 3 weeks. What is happening?"

"Nothing."

"Ollie man, I know you don't like to talk but seriously what is going off?" Oliver let out a frustrated sigh. "I've never seen you like this before."

"I've never felt like this before." Oliver replied softly.

"Like what?"

"I can't stop thinking about her." He said so softly Thea had to lean against the door.

"You mean Felicity?"

"Who else would I mean."

"Hey..."

"Tommy I can't stop seeing that look of complete and utter devastation on her face, of how she thinks it all meant nothing."

"Then why don't you set her straight."

"How? She never wants to see me again."

"Oliver she was mad, tell her the truth. The truth goes a long way. Why not tell her how you really feel?"

"Oh yes Felicity, I can't stop thinking about you even though we weren't in a relationship." He said with frustration.

"Seriously dude you have got it bad!"

"I haven't got anything..."

"The Oliver Queen I used to know didn't care about hurting girls this much. So I'd say you are well and truly smitten with Miss Smoak."

"Fine. I like her a lot."

"Then go fight for her!"

"But I don't know-"

"Ollie just for once trust your instincts on this."

"Fine I need my bike." Oliver replied with a grin.

"Go get her!" Tommy said patting him on the back.

A loud thud woke Thea up, she shot out of bed 2am it said on the clock. She listened by her door.

"Dude, come on you'll wake your parents and we both know how that will end." Tommy's whisper cut through the silence.

"I don't care." Oliver slurred a little.

"Come on." Thea listened as she heard the door beside hers open and the two practically fall inside. She slowly opened her own and slipped out.

"What the hell happened?" Tommy asked as she heard them drop onto the bed.

"I was too late."

"What does that mean?"

"I've lost her Tommy. I love Felicity Smoak and now she's gone."

"Oh man, I'm sorry."

"It isn't your fault... I messed up like I always mess up. I disappoint everyone around me, I push them all away, I hurt her..." She could hear the crack in his voice as if he was holding back tears. "I was better with her... She made things different." He sighed. "She made me believe I was better than I am but I guess I proved her wrong."

"Ollie..."

"It's okay I deserve all this."

"No."

"No?"

"You aren't doing this I won't let you! You're going to sleep this all off and then tomorrow we're going to make plans."

"Plans for what?"

"The club. If you can't be with Felicity than maybe becoming a better man will mean next time you won't lose the girl."

"The club?"

"We sat and we planned a club Ollie, we can do this. You and I, owning and running it, we proved we could."

"But Felicity helped..."

"Exactly she did, so how about we prove to her and everyone else you've changed. How about we do this?"

"Okay."

"Good now get some sleep!"


Felicitys mouth fell open.

"You see, my brother became this hard working one woman guy thanks to whatever the hell happened between you two." Felicity shook her head in disbelief.

"That's why I recognised your name Fliss, my brother was hopelessly in love with you, and in all honesty I don't think he ever got over you."

"Thea..." Felicitys brain was in over drive, he loved her even back then? Was this all true or was it cover for his job, but then why carry on this facade for all that time? She frowned.

"Fliss, the one thing I know that works wonders for a relationship is communication, and it would appear that both of you are stubborn." She crossed her arms over her chest. "You need to talk, openly and honestly; I think you know my brother better than anyone. Better than his own family. He has a connection with you that has been there for years. He finally has a chance at a real family, and not because you forced him. Please talk to him." Felicity felt the burning in her eyes as she fought the tears from rising.

"Thank you Thea."

"Oh you don't need to thank me; my brother is a giant pain in the ass. I just think you both deserve a shot at true happiness." Felicity smiled softly as the girls left the library together.

They made their way back into the living room, the same eyes staring at her as Diggle, Tommy, and Laurel came to join the pair.

"Fliss, you do realise I don't blame you ever, especially considering your carrying Ollies kid." Tommy said softly.

"I blame myself." She said softly. "I couldn't save them, I tried desperately..." Her head dropped.

"Hey, children come first and Robert chose his son and grandchild." Laurel added as Tommy nodded.

"I know... I just-"

"Miss Smoak?" Moiras voice cut her off and she froze instantly.

"Mrs Queen." She said her voice a little sharper than usual.

"Let me apologise. I let my anger get the better of me and I had no idea you are carrying Olivers child."

"Our child." Felicity corrected.

"Yes exactly. I'll stop this leaking out to the press, and I'll stop those nasty false rumours too-"

"It's fine."

"No Miss Smoak, it's not and I am sorry."

"You were just protecting your family..."

"As were you."

"I think I need to talk to Oliver."

"He's outside." Diggle said calmly.

"But it's raining?" Felicity said with a frown.

"He won't listen to any of us." Tommy said sadly.

"I think my son is grieving more than we originally thought."

"Losing a parent can-"

"No." Moira cut Felicity off. "I think he's grieving having lost you my dear and your child." Felicity frowned in disbelief.

"But we aren't dead."

"No my dear but when you leave for your new job you might as well be." Felicitys mouth fell open. How could he think that?

"I really need to talk to him."

"I don't think it's good for you to go out in the rain Felicity." Diggle said with concern.

"I'll be fine Dig. Would someone get me an umbrella and some towels please."


Oliver was sat beside his fathers freshly made grave. His head was in his hands as he felt the rain washing over him. But he wasn't cold, he just felt numb, and lost. How could have he let all of this happen? Things would have been so different if he hadn't let Felicity walk away all those years ago, if he'd chased her and never looked back. He sighed as his mind wandered back to that time.


Oliver woke up, he could feel something warm curled into his side. He smiled as he slowly opened his eyes, Felicity was sound asleep. She looked so beautiful and so peaceful, his heart was pounding. He glanced at the clock, nearly 8am. Felicitys final would be soon.

He reluctantly got out of the bed, he watched as Felicity curled into his space, the sheets falling slightly to reveal more of her ivory skin. He gently pulled them up covering her and she sighed softly. He smiled to himself as he pulled his clothes on. He couldn't believe his luck, he'd found a girl who liked him for him and not for his money or name. She might not know everything about him or the real reason he had come into her life but he could feel himself ready to open up to her. To tell her everything about her father, his life now and how much she had altered him.

Oliver glanced at the gorgeous lady in bed as he slipped out her door, coffee. That's what he would do. He would go get them coffee, make sure she was awake for her final.

Oliver slipped out the halls and headed in the direction of the nearest coffee place, he'd change into fresh clothes later. He was so caught up in his thoughts that he never noticed Tommy.

"Ollie!" Tommy grinned. "Earth to Oliver!" He said waving a hand.

"Sorry dude I was in my own world."

"I noticed." He teased. "Oh and I also notice someone is wearing the same clothes as they were last night." He winked.

"Tommy…"

"Who are you and what have you done with my best friend Ollie?"

"What?"

"You aren't even telling me who you hooked up with, let alone what happened."

"I don't kiss and tell…"

"No you don't kiss and tell when it involves Felicity." Tommy winked again. Oliver raised an eyebrow whilst crossing his arms over his chest. "See you're not denying it!"

"Tommy!"

"Oh I'm just playing with you dude! I'm happy for you, happy you found a girl that makes you want to be… different" Oliver couldn't help the chuckle that escaped him.

"I'm not that different Tommy."

"Oh my friend, Miss Smoak has completely and utterly changed your life." He said patting him on the shoulder. "Where are you off to?"

"To get coffee for us before her final."

"See… changing." Tommy winked. Oliver shook his head with a smile on his face.

"Anyway I shall see you later I have somewhere to be."

"You do?"

"You have your secrets I have mine." He winked again as he walked off, leaving Oliver to think about how much he actually had changed thanks to this beautiful spectacled young woman.

Oliver ordered their coffee, and headed back to Felicity's halls. It wasn't till he stood outside two cups in hand that he realised he hadn't taken any keys with him. He sighed, debating with himself if he wanted to ring the doorbell or not. On one hand he wanted to see Felicity, by now she had to be awake and she must be wandering why he wasn't there. It was then he glanced at his watch, she would have been heading to her final exam by now. He turned on his heels rushing; hopefully he could see her before she headed in. But Oliver had no so such luck; he got there just in time to see her disappearing inside.

It was 2 hours later; Oliver had changed and decided to wait for Felicity. He saw the rest of the group leave and then he saw her, she looked deflated and sad. He frowned as she walked straight passed him.

"Felicity!" Oliver called out, she didn't stop. He frowned to himself as he rushed after her. "Felicity?" he said grabbing her wrist. She stopped and stared at his hand encircling her wrist. He let go frowning, "what's wrong?" He asked taking a step closer, not touching her. She looked into his eyes, and Oliver could see the uncertainty. His heart ached as he thought of how she must have woken up alone "Is this about this morning? About me not being there?" And suddenly her face fell as she took a step back from him which caused him to frown harder.

"I know." She practically whispered.

"You know what?" Oliver asked tilting his head slightly.

"I know okay? You don't need to pretend anymore."

"I don't understand." He said staring into her eyes.

"The reason you left this morning, because this was a onetime thing." She said her head dropping.

"Felicity" He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"No okay? You don't get to say my name like that anymore."

"Like what?" He frowned.

"Like you care, like I matter," she took a deep breath, "I thought this, us , I meant something more than your usual flings, you were my first Oliver..." his mouth fell open.

"What?!... Why didn't you say anything?" He asked in disbelief, why hadn't she told him, he would have made it more special, would have worshipped her.

"Because it wouldn't have changed anything for you, we'd still be at this point, in this situation."

"I don't-" His head was hurting from all the confusion.

"Just stop! " She shouted causing a few people to look in their direction; she dropped her voice, "the bet." No, she didn't think that? He saw her head drop.

"Please let me-"

"No, your reaction said enough, it's true..." She shook her head, "I thought you were better than that, I thought this was different for you. Like I said I thought you were special enough to be my first but you just... You used me," she couldn't stop a tear from falling and Olivers hand shot up, she took a step back so he couldn't touch her, "no, you don't ever get to touch me again, to see me again," she took a shaky breath as she tried to regain her composure "I don't want to ever see or hear from you again, Ollie ."

Oliver couldn't help the shudder at her using that name. It felt unnatural to hear her call him that and the way she said it as well made him feel uneasy, like he hadn't changed at all. She turned away from him and walked off before he even had time to string a sentence together. She never looked back and Oliver couldn't move.

Oliver stormed into his halls, he slammed the living room door against the wall. Tommy and Ed jumped from their places on the sofa. Before anyone had time to react Oliver had Ed by the throat slamming him against the wall.

"What did you tell her?!" He shouted, Tommy was up trying to pull him off.

"Ollie!" Tommy shouted.

"Why did you tell her about the bet?" Oliver shouted louder.

"I… I didn't tell anyone…" Ed stuttered out. Tommy pulled hard on Olivers arms and he finally let Ed drop to the floor.

"What the hell man?" Tommy asked, still not letting him go.

"She said she found out about the bet!"

"Who? Ollie what is happening?"

"I don't care about the money Ed! Keep it…" Oliver said storming off towards his room. Tommy was hot on his tail.

"What is happening?"

"Felicity ended things; she thinks that stupid bet was her!"

"Wait what? Why?"

"I don't know! All I know is she thinks I used her for money, and she wants nothing more to do with me."

"Oh man."

"Forget it Tommy." Oliver said slamming his bedroom door closed.


"Oliver?" Felicity asked softly.

Oliver raised his head. She was stood there in her coat, a giant umbrella in one hand and several towels in the other. She placed one on the floor beside him, and then sat next to him. She placed the umbrella into the ground between them; it was large enough to shield them both from the pouring rain. She gently handed the other towels to Oliver.

"What are you doing?"

"If I asked you to come in you'd refuse, if I asked if I could join you you'd protest, so here I am Oliver." She said softly.

"I'm sorry about my moth-"

"Don't be she was mad, she was saying what everyone else was thinking and she apologised too." He nodded in response as the silence over took them, they were both listening to the rain beat onto the umbrella, watching it all fall around them as Oliver dried off his face and hair.

"Felicity." She turned her head towards him. "I'm sorry about all this." She shrugged lightly.

"Oliver, what are you doing out here?" He hesitated vaguely before his eyes fell to hers behind her trademark glasses.

"I... I'm sick of lying, of pretending... I'm tired of my best friend thinking his father was a hero when he was really a monster; I'm tired of them not knowing who I truly am, of feeling alone in my secrets. Someone once told me secrets have weight and they drag you down. Well I feel like I'm drowning..." She gently placed her hand on his over his knee.

"You aren't alone in your secrets you have me... And Dig, Slade, Shado..." He gave a little nod and her heart felt crushed again. Why couldn't she tell him how she really felt? Was the rejection really that scary? "Oliver I think we need to talk." She said letting out a breath pulling her hand back to her lap. Oliver watched her hand retreating missing her warmth immediately. He knew why she wanted to talk, she wanted an explanation about everything before she said goodbye.

"I owe you that, I don't want to lie or keep secrets from you ever again. So I'll tell you everything you need to know." He said it so softly that it completely caught Felicity off guard.

"Thank you."

"I guess I should start from the beginning..."

"Seems logical." She smiled shifting slightly so she could face him.

"You were my first job Felicity but when we first met... I didn't know who you were."

"You mean when you flirted with me whilst also being in a relationship with Laurel?" She asked trying not to sound bitter because she really wasn't anymore.

"Yes I'm sorry. I was different, worse, back then and you did put me on the no fly list." She smiled as he chuckled at that memory.

"It was the least you deserved."

"I deserve worse now."

"Oliver." She said it gently tilting her head and he couldn't help staring at her. Her soft features full of compassion and he had no idea how she could still feel anything for him after what he had put her through.

"It's okay... Anyway it wasn't till after that, that I was asked to keep an eye on you, to see about your abilities and if anyone was observing you."

"Why?"

"Your dad." She dropped her head slightly then. "Adam Benedikt Smoak aka Benedikt Volkov aka Volk aka The Inferno" Her eyes widened in shock.

"My... He's..."

"Your dad had a Russian mother; she left the Bratva behind for an American husband. I don't know how your father got involved originally but I do now know that he left you and your mother after the attack on Rebecca Merlyn. I always knew he left you after something went wrong with a fellow agent, I just never realised it was any of this." He gestured around him. "My father's love life affected your life, and I'm sorry for that."

"It isn't your fault Oliver... That was a long time ago. You can't possibly know how much a single event can affect others plus love is a powerful emotion." Their eyes locked with her last words, both seemed to be looking for something in the others.

"Well yes your dad... He was the one that requested the observation because he wasn't sure if he had been compromised but he hadn't. And they learnt your skills were pretty amazing early on but at the request of your father you were to be left alone."

"So you, us that was all an act?" Oliver shook his head instantly.

"No. I was only meant to be with you for a few months. But I..." He took a deep breath looking into her eyes. "I was drawn to you; none of my feelings, none of my behaviour was a lie. It was all real for me. I graduated because of you and I had the life I did because of your guidance." He smiled at her as she looked into his eyes. She could tell he wasn't lying. "The reason I say about you always being a job is because I have a constant need to protect you. I need to keep you safe; it's the least I could do for your father after everything he's done to keep me alive and involved in the Bratva. He is the second in command there."

"Did... Does he have another family?"

"No. As far as I'm aware he's pretty much alone." She felt the tears rising as she dropped her head. "Hey it's okay. He's lived that life for so long now he's used to it and he always said it's the thought of you and your mother being safe that keeps him fighting every day."

"But the things he's probably done to survive-"

"Don't do that to yourself... I've done terrible things to survive too." He said it so softly. She glanced up at him and he could see the guilt in her eyes. "I don't blame you for my dad's death Felicity." She couldn't help the small sob then; he went to reach out to comfort her but then pulled back. "His death, it was an awful accident and he let you and our child live. He gave you both a future... So just remember our child is alive today because of him." She nodded a little as she tried to stop her tears.

"And you shouldn't feel guilty too." She replied. Oliver couldn't help smiling because of course she knew how he felt.

"I have a lot to feel guilty about Felicity, but you and our child being alive never."

"So my dad he's alive and second in command..." He nodded, "and he's been protect us all this time," he nodded again, "I've been so angry with him for so long..."

"It's okay... He understands. He spoke of you sometimes, he is so proud of you. Proud of everything about you." He smiled as Felicity looked at him.

"So that's how you know my dad." He nodded again.

"Yes..."

"Why are you telling me now?"

"Because I'm sick of the secrets, of the lies... Truth be told Felicity I'm laying all my cards on the table and then leaving the decision to you." She frowned then, what decision was he talking about?

"I..."

"The morning after we, you know, slept together at university..." She nodded.

"When I left, when I wasn't there, I actually went to get us coffee. You can even ask Tommy I ran into him, hence why by the time I got back you had already gone."

"I wasn't bothered about you not being there Oliver..."

"It was the bet wasn't it?"

"At the time yes..."

"The bet was stupid. You know I was an idiot back then."

"I know but sleeping with me for money, it came as a shock... In all honesty finding out I was a job as well sort of hurt too..." She looked down at her hands then.

"The bet wasn't for you..." Her eyes snapped to his. "And like I said you were only my job for a little while, not when we kissed, when we slept together, you were someone I... liked..."

"But they said the girl in Hall B from Vegas." She responded, ignoring his last comment.

"Exactly…" He replied, she frowned as she thought about his words.

"Chloe?" He nodded. "So you slept with Chloe for a bet?"

"In all honesty Felicity I had completely forgotten about the bet until you mentioned it that day. I slept with Chloe because of what my Christmas had been like, do you remember? I turned up the next morning because I felt so bad."

"I remember... You promised I'd never lose you." She said it so quietly.

"And I let you down." He said turning his gaze away. "I always let you down." Felicity felt her heart ache at the broken way he said it, he hadn't always let her down but she was unsure how to console him.

"Not always..." She whispered. Oliver just nodded slightly. "Thea... Thea mentioned something to me."

"What did she say?"

"That when you came back from university you basically locked yourself away for 3 weeks. I knew it wouldn't be because of me but I didn't want to mention the Agency-"

"I wish I could tell you it was them Felicity but it wasn't." He didn't look at her as he sat looking out at the rain.

"I..." Felicitys mind stopped, she didn't have that affect on Oliver Queen did she?

"What else did she tell you?"

"That she overheard a conversation... That she heard you and Tommy talking about me... That you came back for me." His head span around then his eyes wide.

"She heard that... And she told you?"

"Yes... What... Why didn't I know about this?"

"Because... I never made it to your door..."

"I don't understand."

"Tommy told me to go get you so I did..."


Oliver was on his bike. He was ready to fight for her; he had never wanted someone so much in his entire life. Well he had but that was different, this was different. Felicity brought something out in him that no-one else did. He had missed her, and he had never missed anyone like this before.

He called the Agency unsure where Felicity was. He knew that Chloe and Felicity weren't going home for the summer, and they would more than likely be living together he just wasn't sure where.

He drove without much thought, in the general direction of their university. He didn't stop till he was at her old halls; his phone beeping caught his attention as he pulled up. It was an address 10 minutes from where he got in there 5.

He sat on his bike, across the street, his helmet down. He was working up the courage to talk to her. He needed to tell her the truth, explain everything. Then he glanced up. Felicity was walking down the street, her glasses long gone from her face. Her clothes darker in style and her dark hair streaked with purple. Regardless of the change in her appearance Oliver thought she looked beautiful. He sat up straighter.

"Fliss!" He heard a voice call her and a guy ran in her direction. The two hugged each other tightly then suddenly there lips crashed onto each others. His heart stopped. He watched them as they walked to the door together chatting away happily.

Everything he hoped for fell apart, he wanted her to be happy and she clearly was without him. He closed his eyes briefly watching the future he wanted walk away and he had no-one but himself to blame. He started his bike heading back to Starling, he needed a drink.


"So you came to talk to me?" He nodded.

"I couldn't get in the way of your happiness..."

"I was miserable."

"You didn't look miserable."

"Oliver he was everything you weren't back then, technical like me, computer graduate and he was safe..."

"I get it-"

"No but he was boring... I didn't cope well the first time, you saw how I changed my appearance and well that relationship did not end well."

"Oh..."

"Thea said you got drunk that night."

"Yes I just I wasn't coping well either. But that was the night Tommy talked me into making the club idea a realty." Felicity smiled softly. "For you." He looked into her eyes that seemed full of questions. "Even back then I was trying to be better for you but then I never had you... And so I needed to be better in case anything else like you came along and I wouldn't mess up again."

"For Laurel you mean?"

"No I told you Laurel and I just sort of happened... I was always waiting for someone else, I just didn't realise it was you, and I still messed it up."

"Oliver..."

"Please listen to me Felicity."

"Okay..."

"Don't go."

"Don't go where?" She frowned a little.

"To London. Don't go."

"Oliver, I-"

"Felicity. I am such an idiot, I should have told you all of these things earlier. Should have explained everything but instead I pushed you away, well tried too. And when I ended things I thought I was protecting you from the life of the Agency but you were dragged into it all regardless." She nodded as he spoke. "But I see now, I can't protect you from everything; I can't stop you from doing what you want. I respect your choices; it is your life after all. But if you tell me you never loved me, that there is no chance you will ever forgive me, then I'll let you go. I'll watch you go to London and I'll let you take our child because I don't want to prolong your suffering." She watched him with wide eyes as she saw him fighting back the tears. "But... If there is any part of you that could forgive me, would even consider giving me a second chance... I'll never walk out of your life again. I would give up all of this and come to London with you if that's what you wanted, or I'd put you in charge of QC if you stayed."

"Oliver-" his hand came to rest on her cheek gently caressing her skin as he wiped away a tear that had fallen.

"I nearly lost you, I thought I had and in that moment I realised you," his free hand fell to her stomach, "this was everything I ever wanted and I never truly realised how much that meant till I nearly lost it all. You are my future Felicity, you and our baby. It's just taken me till now to realise that my future doesn't exist without you in it." Oliver stared into her beautiful blue irises full of life.
"I am completely and utterly in love with you Felicity Meghan Smoak, I've loved you for the past 5 years of my life and I've been a stupid coward to not tell you sooner."

Felicity could see the truth in his eyes, his words had warmed her heart and as he leant forward to kiss her she closed the gap. They met each other half way, their lips melding together as if they had been doing this for years. Her arms banded around his neck, and as they pulled apart their foreheads touched. Their breaths mingled together, Felicity opened her eyes to find Olivers already staring at her. They were full of questions. She pulled away slightly, her hands falling from his neck. His head dropped. She didn't want this that was a goodbye kiss. He looked up when he heard the umbrella snapping shut.

"The rain has stopped." She smiled and Oliver looked up at the sky, it was still cloudy but the rain was no longer pouring.

"Felicity-"

"It's my turn now." She smiled softly as she pulled herself up.

"Okay." He nodded standing up to join her.

"I wasn't sure how you felt about me, this pregnancy, any of it." He frowned then staring at her in disbelief. "I didn't want to trap you or force you in to anything."

"Fel-" Her hand shot up silencing him.

"With you saying you'd die at the hands of The Agency and that you basically wouldn't chose a life with me... I thought it meant you didn't want me. I thought everything I felt was just one sided." He shook his head taking a step closer. "I knew I was falling for you back then, that's why it hurt so much, why I changed my appearance after we ended. Even though technically we never began-"

"I think losing your virginity to me meant we were something..." He said softly, she could see the regret and pain in his eyes.

"You were my first, and I wouldn't change that for the world Oliver." He could feel his heart hammering in his chest. "I tried to convince myself when I came back into your life that I wouldn't fall for you again. But I was so wrong." He smiled then as she shook her head with a smirk. "You completely changed my life again, introduced me into your world properly this time... You let me in again."

"I'll always let you in."

"But will you let me stay in now?"

"Does that mean-"

"I'm not going to London Oliver. The day after the hospital I called them, told them I couldn't leave this place behind. Not now." Oliver pulled her into him for a hug. "I would never take your child away from you."

"I know." He said placing a soft kiss to the crown of her head. She pulled back slowly then.

"All I needed to know was how you feel, and the fact that you want to live Oliver. That life, me, you and our family mean something."

"It means everything Felicity. I want us to face everything together now. No more lack of communication."

"Open and honest." Felicity smiled.

"Exactly. We work though everything as a team, a partnership." She nodded enthusiastically. "Felicity..."

"Yes?"

"I don't want to spend another second of my life without you, so would you do me the honour of becoming my wife?" Felicity stiffened in his arms.

"Oh." Her lips formed a perfect circle as a frown appeared on her brow. "Oliver..." She shook her head. "No." He dropped his head letting go of her sides. He went to take a step back until Felicity pulled his head up her hands resting on his cheeks.

"I understand." He said staring into her blue orbs. She saw the sadness and heart break, the doubt and insecurities all creeping in. "I'm damaged goods, I mess up constantly and you don't feel the same-" her lips came crashing onto his silencing him, his hands wrapped around her as he pulled her closer, and her arms wrapped around his neck. Slowly they pulled apart and one of Felicitys hand came back to caress his cheek and jaw.

"Oliver... You aren't damaged to me. You never have been. You're handsome, so strong willed and brave. You don't mess up constantly, we all make mistakes..." She stared into his eyes holding his intense gaze as she slowly said her next words. "Oliver Jonas Queen I love you, I am in love with every fibre of your being. Every mark on your glorious body, every imperfection in your soul, you bring out the best in me and I am just honoured enough to have your love." She saw the tears glistening in his eyes making them sparkle even more. "We don't need to be married to be spend the rest of our lives together, to commit fully. I just need more time to think about marriage Oliver. I hope you understand." He nodded with a smile on his face. "But I'm not stopping you from asking again, another time. Just not now."

"Okay." He replied pulling her closer. "But you love me?"

"Always have, always will." She whispered into his ear.

"I'm sorry I took so long to tell you."

"Me too." He pressed a soft kiss to her lips.

"I'm going to do the best I can Felicity, I'm going to try to make everything work."

"Hey, we'll sort QC, the Agency, the clubs everything together. You aren't alone anymore Oliver." He smiled down at her then.

"And neither are you Felicity. I promise you, our family, will never lose me." She smiled up at him. The warmth of the sun on their skin caused them both to look up. The dark clouds were parting, to reveal the beautiful blue sky underneath. The suns rays breaking through the cloud, to shine brightly around them.

"It seems like you're always leading me out of the darkness." Oliver said smiling at Felicity.

"I think you'll find the light was always there, deep inside of you." She placed a hand over his heart. "So, you and me?" She asked tilting her head.

"A couple." He smiled. "A family." He let his hand drop to her stomach.

"I couldn't ask for more." Felicity smiled, placing her hand over his.

"Whatever we do, we'll figure it all out."

"Of course." She nodded as they turned around making their way back to the mansion. "I am sorry about your dad."

"It's okay; he gave me the greatest gift, another chance with you and a chance to be a father myself." Felicity nodded softly, the guilt easing slightly.

"Remember I'm here for you now."

"And I am for you too, no more doctors appointments alone, no more hiding how we feel."

"Okay, but no telling the press about the pregnancy yet."

"Oh, of course not." He nodded.

They were just about to step back inside when Felicity froze; she felt the panic rising all of these people thinking that she was after Olivers money when all she ever really wanted was his heart. Oliver stopped beside her; he gently took her hand in his and then entwined their fingers together. She stared into his eyes feeling his fingers squeeze lightly and in that moment she realised she had his heart, she'd had it for the last 5 years because he had also had hers. She beamed at him, as he opened the door.

"Thank you." He smiled brightly. "Oh and Oliver..." He turned his head towards her as he stepped inside. "I love you." An easy smile appeared on his face, one full of hope, warmth, love and a future.

"I love you too." He replied with ease.

Both let the love they felt for each other wash over them, soaking their skin, muscles and bones. Neither had felt this in their entire lives and now they had fully accepted their feelings, they knew they would never look back again.