February 18, 2012 - 7:05 pm
"Good Evening Captain Lance!" Tommy greeted Quentin doing a salute gesture. As he descends from the stairs.
"Pft! Do I have to feel so honored that the main organizer of this event is waiting for me here at the stairs? And I guess good evening to you as well . I thought there is a security around here?" Quentin sarcastically answered while he is checking around their surroundings.
"My…my…..Captain Lance, what's with your grumpy face? You look handsome, don't put it to waste this evening. Come on smile. Your tux looks good on you. I bet it's Laurel's choice. Ah! there is security, it's just that I want to fetch my future father-in-law. Don't you appreciate it?" Tommy responded with a sing-song voice and grinned. The Captain just snorted.
"Are we just gonna stay here or you will bring me to where your evil twin is?" Quentin asked Tommy as he raised his right eyebrow.
"Awwww Captain Lance. We are not evil anymore. We are called angels now. People change you know" Tommy responded in a playful voice and he lead the way upstairs to the Captain.
When they reached the Balcony, Quentin immediately spotted Oliver sitting comfortably and silently observing the people below, while enjoying his glass of wine.
"Who would have thought that the CEO of Queen Consolidated is here seeking solitude, drinking his glass of wine while watching the people below acting like a God, huh? Must be a wonderful feeling. Why don't you share it with me perhaps?".
Oliver knew who that voice belongs to. Hearing those sarcastic remarks, is the one and only Captain Quentin Lance. He is also aware like Tommy, that the guy is still not fond of him after all this years. Being Laurel's ex-boyfriend, cheated to her daughter to Sara. And almost killing her youngest through the Queen's Gambit. He knew everything is his fault. He is trying his best to redeem himself - by helping others as much as he can, not just only as a vigilante by night but as Oliver Jonas Queen. Sadly, there are people who are still stuck on how they see things about him in the past.
Media still sees him as a playboy dating different women every week. But he has changed. He never intended to do these things in the first place. He just acted through pressure since he is the Heir of a multi-billion dollar company. Oliver just wanted to be himself. By being himself is to love someone regardless of gender. Who does give a fuck about that.
He is very grateful for Laurel and Sara's forgiveness that sometimes he feels that he doesn't deserve it, even after everything that had happened between them. And he is very thankful to Sara for helping him out in protecting the City at night as the Canary.
He just wished for Captain Lance to see him as the Oliver Queen who returned after 5 years. A new man. And not the Oliver Queen in the past. That guy is a douchebag after all.
Oliver stood up upon hearing Captain Lance remarks to him and he reached out his right hand for a handshake.
"Good Evening Captain Lance. It's been a while. How are you?" he smiled warmly to Quentin.
Quentin, was taken aback at Oliver's greeting to him despite giving him sarcastic remarks. Did this person really changed? He doesn't even used his fake smile on me.
"I am good . I hope you do too".
"Of course Captain. Let's have a seat".
Oliver offered Quentin another spot on his table and Tommy also followed. He called their personal waiter to serve them another set of wine and appetizers.
7:20 PM
*******Incoming Call Daddy*******
Quentin: Laurel, can you stay at my officers side while they receive their awards?
Laurel: Why? Where are you Daddy? I am still with them and their families.
Quentin: I have some important business to attend to. I will be with you in an hour or two. Is that okay? I am still here at the Hall. In a secluded area. Don't worry I am still seeing what is happening on stage. Thank you Laurel.
Laurel: Okay Daddy. See you later then.
Quentin: Thank you sweetheart.
*******Call Ended*******
7:23 PM
When Quentin ended his call to Laurel, he went back to his chair and took a glance between Oliver and Tommy. He can see two grown up men, who matured over the years. But he still can't help it to see them as to who they were several years back. Even though part of himself already forgave Oliver Queen from what he did to his two daughters, another part of him is still haunted by the past that he can't admit to anyone - he still has unsettled issues and unanswered questions that he wanted to ask the man himself for his actions, but he knows this is not the right time yet. He still has a lot of things to deal with, this isn't his priority.
As for Tommy, he is still wary of him for courting his daughter. And his playful attitude still worries him a lot until now. Why does my daughter keeps getting involved with Billionaires?
Quentin was pulled out of his thoughts when their waiter arrived and served them wine and appetizers.
The awarding ceremony has already started.
The three of them sat in silence while watching the awarding ceremony that is happening on stage. After 15 mins. Tommy stood up.
"Where are you going ? Don't tell me…." he was cut off by Tommy before he finished his sentence.
"Oops! Captain, I know what you're thinking, I will not go to Laurel and ask her for a dance. Even though I wanted to. But I can't sadly. I am so busy. I need to check on everything, foods, securities and my staffs. I also need to go backstage, because someone wants to speak with me from the CCPD. After all I am the head organizer of this event and I don't want any unexpected problems to happen" he answered in a professional tone.
Quentin was taken aback and felt a bit ashamed of how he thinks of Tommy Merlyn. He was never able to answer back and just nodded.
"See you later Captain and Ollie!" Tommy waved to the both of them and Oliver did the same. And he left, leaving the two at the Balcony.
Quentin started his conversation with Oliver.
"Mister Queen how's things going so far at Queen Consolidated? It seems to me that you are doing quite well, handling things on your own. Seeing Robert and Moira being busy with other things that they don't need to babysit you everyday. And do they know that you are here and one of the major sponsors? Is QC involved somehow?" he asked.
"Thank you for asking Captain. QC is doing great. I am so busy with closing deals, never ending meetings, monitoring stocks and my employees welfare. I am happy to see Mom and Dad enjoying their early retirement. Of course I still ask for their advises from time to time. But I can handle most of the things on my own. Handling QC and partly Verdant, but I mostly entrust it to Thea and Tommy. My family doesn't know that I am a major sponsor of this event, only you and Tommy. I used my own money for this" Oliver responded.
Quentin became curious as to why Oliver didn't told his family and what is his personal purpose in sponsoring an event like this.
"If you don't mind may I know your purpose why you did this secretly? Sponsoring this kind of stuff? It looks to me that it isn't your cup of tea" Quentin asked as he took a sip to his wine. This is good. He thought.
"Simple Captain. I appreciate all the efforts the police force has done to us. These types of jobs is not easy, I know how hard it is. Dealing with criminals every night, helping people, solving cases. They deserved to be recognized. You see my Family always helps out charities, but not events like these. I didn't told my family, because I don't want them to hinder any decisions that I make. And I do this secretly, because I am happy and I don't need any media attention nor everyone's praises. I don't need it. I just want to see the officers smiles and celebrating wonderful events like this with their loved ones and I know how Laurel is so proud of you. Thank you Captain Lance and the SCPD's efforts in protecting Starling" Oliver looked at Quentin's eyes with a warm smile.
The Captain could not believe what he was hearing from Oliver Queen. People do really change? He has changed.
Quentin nodded and also gave Oliver a warm smile. "We just want our families to be safe ".
The two enjoyed each other's company while they continued watching the awarding of officers.
8:37 PM - Backstage
After checking all of the foods and securities Tommy immediately went to the backstage and one of the staffs greeted him.
"Good Evening ! Captain Singh is here waiting for you" a brunette woman in her mid 20's greeted Tommy.
"Thank you Maria. I will take it from here" the staff nodded and left.
When Captain Singh saw Tommy, he quickly approached the man.
"Hello ! Good Evening. It's been a while" both of them shake hands.
"Yeah Captain Singh! It's been a while. How may I help you? One of your men will perform this evening right? After the awarding?".
"Actually he is not an employee of the CCPD, it's his Father and one of the awardees this evening - Detective Joe West. This kid has an amazing singing voice. He wants to dedicate it for his family and he requested something to me earlier" Singh explained.
"What is his request?" Tommy asked.
"He requested if he can still play a non-lyrical song on the Grand Piano after his song number, one being a solo and one with an accompaniment with the Orchestra".
"Oh that is so nice of him! He wants to perform more for the people here in the Grand Ballroom. That's great! May I know his name, if you don't mind?" Tommy smiled and clapped his hands.
"The kid's name is Barry Allen" the Captain answered.
"Barry Allen? Not Barry West? Where is he by the way Captain?" Barry? The name's seems familiar to me. Tommy thought.
"Oh, he is sitting over there. Table number 5 wearing a midnight blue tux. Do you want me to call for him right now? He has a different last name from his Father because he is Detective West's foster Son. He is only 16 years old, a very talented kid".
As Captain Singh pointed Barry's direction to Tommy, his eyes grew wide. That is why the name sounds so familiar, because he is the same kid Oliver was enthralled with that night on Valentine's Day. Although it bothered him a bit on the word Foster Son. Did something bad happened to Barry's parents? Tommy felt sympathy towards him. And he is right his age is barely 18. He is so deep in his thoughts that he didn't heard Captain Singh calling his attention.
"Mister Merlyn? Are you okay? I am asking if I should call Barry here backstage?" Singh looked at him worriedly.
"Oh no, it's okay. No need to call him here. I bet his Father is not yet called on the stage right?" Singh nodded.
"You can tell him that he can play 2 additional non-lyrical songs and I will tell Maria to call the orchestra for a bit of practice here. Please tell Barry to be on the backstage as soon as he can, after his Father receive his award" Tommy gave Singh a squeeze on his shoulder and the Captain smiled at him.
"Thank you ! The kid will be happy. I think I need to go now. I will inform them immediately. I owe you a lot!" Captain Singh waved at Tommy before leaving. "Hey Captain Singh! You didn't owe me anything. It is me who owe you a lot! Take Care!" he responded smiling.
Tommy can't believe what was happening right now. He comes up with a plan. He approached one of his staffs.
"Maria, I need you to do something for me. Can you please buy these flowers? I need it ASAP".
"Wow! For whom Sir? Girlfriend? These flowers that you want me to buy, you sure know your stuff" Maria teases.
"No not a girlfriend silly. But someone I might adore in the future. A very rare flower. Now go! Hurry! Before he gets here" Tommy pushed Maria out of the backstage to do what he asked her to. And Maria raises her eyebrows upon hearing the word he.
Now he just have to wait for Barry and make his move.
Time to tease Oliver.
9:05 PM - Balcony
Oliver and Captain Lance clapped their hands for every officer who receives their awards on stage.
Every now and then Captain Lance gives comments and a little bit of background introduction to the officers that he knows during the awarding ceremony and Oliver nodded and listens to it. He is very grateful for the Captain's company.
"The next award that we will be presenting is to Detective Joe West from Central City Police Department, for being the Best Detective of the Year and a Loyalty Award for his service at CCPD for more than 3 decades. Let us give him a warm round of applause!" the host introduced Joe and Oliver saw that he is being accompanied by two people and he is using a cane, one probably his daughter and the second was the daughter's boyfriend? Something bad must have happened to him.
When they faced the audience, Oliver was shocked to see the young man's face. It's his Barry. His Angel of music. His beautiful Angel that has been plaguing in his mind for how many nights now. Ever since Valentine's Day. The song he requested is still playing in his head.
But at the same time he felt dejected on knowing that Barry is already taken with the Detective's daughter. She looks pretty . They look perfect for each other. I guess it's time to move on?
Despite the dejection that he felt. He still used his Binoculars to make a closer look at Barry's features. He is very very beautiful, unblemished skin, very young, pinkish lips and cheeks, and his smile is so blinding that it can light up a whole city.
Captain Lance saw how interested Oliver to his friend Joe West and his family. He laughed quietly upon seeing Oliver using his binoculars to take a closer look. He was about to speak and tell him that he knows them, but Joe started his speech.
"Ahem, good evening Ladies and Gentlemen. I am Detective Joe West from Central City Police Department. Nice to meet you!" Quentin laughed, because he can feel how tensed Joe is.
"First of all, I would like to thank the people who supported me in my whole journey of service to CCPD. I never thought that I will be standing in front of you today, because almost 3 months ago I almost died and I got paralyzed. But miracles do happen, I am recovering now, I am no longer a prison in a wheelchair. I only have these as my new companion for now" Joe raised his cane laughing and people laughed too on Joe's speech.
"I want to thank my Boss Captain David Singh for always believing in me. My friends and colleagues who I treat as my whole family at CCPD. To Detective Eddie Thawne my partner in crime, don't worry Eddie! I will be back soon and you won't feel lonely in the precinct anymore" Eddie laughed so hard while taking a video of Joe making his speech in which he also responded "Come back soon Detective West! Time to kick some butts!" and the audience still laughed at it.
"And to the two special people in my life who is standing next to me, my pillar of strength, my angels, my life, I will die for both of you. My daughter Iris and my son Barry. I am not here standing in front of these hundreds and thousands of people in this Grand Ballroom Hall if you haven't supported me on my journey and my recovery. I don't know what to do or what have I become, without you two." everyone in the Hall stood quiet and absorbed what Joe had said during his speech. Joe didn't stop his tears to fall freely from his eyes and he kissed Iris and Barry on their temples who has also tears in their eyes. They hugged on the stage. And the people is so touched on the scene before them and they gave Joe and his family a standing ovation.
Oliver can't help but smile and melt on Detective Joe West's speech. It is short but very wonderful and he can feel the love the Detective has for both Iris and Barry. Barry is so lucky that the Detective sees him as his own Son. And he accepts him as Iris' better half in the future.
He looked at Barry once again and he saw the tears in those beautiful eyes. But he is not worried, he is happy for Barry's family. He wished for Barry's happiness.
He was so absorbed at the family on the stage that he forgot Captain Lance's presence.
"Ah, such a heartwarming speech from Joe. I am so happy for his achievements and such a warm loving family" Oliver faced Captain Lance and he saw him rubbed his eyes with his handkerchief.
"You know them?" this got Oliver curious.
"Yes, I talked to them earlier. And I congratulated Joe for his award and I personally met his family. Joe is my classmate back in college. You know what? His foster son Barry impressed me so well. That kid is so witty and clever. You know what he told me? That the Arrow has partners and he is not working alone. Can you believe it?".
As Quentin told Oliver about his conversation with the West family earlier. The word Foster Son, didn't escaped Oliver's curiosity even more. And Barry giving deductions about Team Arrow? This is something he needs to watch out for in the future.
"Excuse me Captain, you said that Barry is Detective West's Foster Son? He is not his daughter's boyfriend?" Oliver scrunched his eyebrows upon asking Captain Lance.
"What? Oh no no no , it's impossible for Iris to be Barry's girlfriend. Iris is already like 22? 23? and by the way she is a very smart girl she is working as a journalist at CCPN. And as far as I know it is Detective Thawne that she is in a relationship with - Joe's partner at CCPD. And Barry? He is still so young, he is just 16 years old. And yes, he is Detective West foster son. Last news I heard, the kids parents were murdered 5-6 years ago, case is still unresolved until now. Poor kid. That's why he wants to become a CSI someday. He is so lucky to have Joe adopt him" Captain Lance explained.
Oliver absorbed everything that Captain Lance told him about the West family and Barry, he felt sympathy towards him - losing both parents is too much for a boy like him several years ago. It's traumatic. But right now he can see how Barry is so happy with his Foster Dad and Sister.
He is worried a bit about the unresolved death of Barry's parents, maybe he can do something about it, not as Oliver Queen but as the Arrow. He can think about this later.
He will enjoy this evening. His Angel is here.
So he is right the first time he saw Barry at the Rooftop Bar, he is barely 18.
He is only sweet 16.
He feels happy to know that Barry is not in a relationship. That there might be a chance for both of them, but it worries him a bit because of the large age gap. 8 years, it's no joke.But who gives a damn about it.
Oliver was lost in his thoughts again, until he was pulled back into reality when he felt a squeeze on his shoulder from Captain Lance.
"Mister Queen? Are you okay? I am sorry but I have to go now. My officers is already looking for me and I just received an SMS from Laurel" Oliver nodded and he was left alone in the Balcony.
A few minutes later he received a message from Tommy.
10:15 PM - Balcony
To: Oliver Queen
Fr: Tommy Merlyn
Tommy Merlyn (10:16 pm): Look what I've found a cinnamon roll! Keep your eyes on the stage Ollie! He is so cute in person. I might give your Barry a hug and kiss later. He smells good too.
Photo attachment
Oliver Queen (10:20 pm): This isn't funny Tommy!
Tommy Merlyn (10:22 pm): Hahahaha! Destiny! Small world huh!
Tommy Merlyn(10:24 pm): I will be giving this to him by the way.
Photo Attachment
Oliver Queen (10:25 pm): I will deal with you later Merlyn. And I know something about Barry thanks to Captain Lance.
Tommy Merlyn (10:27 pm): What? No way! But I will be the one to hug and kiss him first so I won!
Oliver Queen (10:28 pm): Don't you dare Thomas Merlyn.
Tommy Merlyn(10:29 pm): He is on stage now!
As Oliver ended his SMS message with Tommy. He heard the host introduced the performer for this evening.
"Hello! Ladies and gentlemen! Let us congratulate once again our awardees for the US National Cop Awards 2012! But before the night ends and while all of us is still enjoying our dinners and desserts, someone will serenade for us this evening. I am asking everyone in this hall to ask their loved ones for a dance. May I introduce to you our balladeer for this night Monsieur Barry Allen with his version of La Vie En Rose".
As Oliver heard Barry's name, he has his full attention now. The young man introduced himself and asked everyone to dance at the floor and enjoy his performance.
He is so smitten to Barry and the boy also surprised him tonight, he plays the Grand Piano while singing one of his favorite French Love songs. Wow he can also play the piano. What hidden talent does my Angel have, I want to see more. He is so full of surprises. Oliver was so over the moon. And what he loves at Barry's singing is how suave it is and how he pronounced every french word like he mastered the language itself, he was also surprised when he sang the English version as well.
The way he sang both versions...Smooth...soothing….like it was bringing you to another dimension. It was like the whole Ballroom Hall is raining with beautiful roses. The people who dances at the floor was also entranced, so much love.
When Barry finished singing, much to Oliver's disappointment. He began to speak and informed the people at the floor that there will be another two non-lyrical songs to be played. He started playing at the Piano again with an accompaniment with the orchestra with a title a Thousand Years followed by a piano solo My Heart will go on. Oliver, started humming with the songs and he feels like flying right now. If he could just ask Barry for a dance.
9:25 PM - Backstage
Tommy Merlyn was introduced to Barry Allen that night at the backstage. After a little rehearsal.
What Barry didn't know was he took a stolen picture of him, while he was practicing and talking with the Orchestra.
But there are unexpected things that had happened. He was shocked not because he already knows Barry Allen, since Valentine's Day at the rooftop bar.
But…
Tommy Merlyn, doesn't want to admit it but the kid is so gorgeous and that Midnight Blue Tux, perfect!
He is different in a much closer look.
Unblemished skin, kissable lips(did he just said it?), lanky, rosy cheeks, tall for his age and those eyes…..
Those alluring Green eyes stood out….
It was like he felt magnetized. Is this how Oliver felt? No no no Tommy slap yourself! Think of Laurel. Think of Laurel. He is repeating it like a mantra inside his head.
He shakes hands with the young man and even joked with him. Barry knows him because of magazines, newspapers and the internet. He needs to show Barry that he is different on how those idiots describes him in their articles. And wow! His laugh it's so adorable and those pearly white teeth and those tiny like fangs. It suits him. He just want to pinch those cheeks. Oliver Queen, I am seeing your Barry face to face now.
Barry bid goodbye to him. But he won't leave the backstage and he will wait for Barry. He even joked to the kid, before he fully ascended to the stage.
Tommy was a bit tensed that Maria is still not yet back. What's taking her so long. But after 15 mins. of fidgeting, Maria has arrived on time. Good thing Barry is still on stage performing.
"Right on time Maria! I though I am going to faint you know. Thank you for this!" and Maria gave Tommy the Calla Lilies that is meant for Barry.
It is time now to tease Oliver Queen.
So he sent an SMS to Oliver and sent a photo attachment to pissed him off. After a few exchanges. He silently laughed and continue to watch Barry's performance. The boy is full of surprises, like wow! He can also play the grand piano. He is imagining right now that his best friend is using his binoculars at it's full capacity. He chuckled at the thought.
After Barry's gorgeous performance. Tommy can't help himself to hug him. Oh, he smell really really good. Huggable too. When he loosened his hug a bit he looked at Barry's eyes.
Damn…... I want to kiss Barry.
The mantra on his head is there again. Think of Laurel. Think of Laurel.
But still Tommy Merlyn can't help it. He kissed Barry on his cheek, but to be honest it is almost at the side of his lips. He hopes that Barry didn't noticed it. When he let go of Barry, he could see how he was stunned by his actions and his cheeks were as red as a tomato. Cute.
He gave Barry the flowers and he can still see that the red on his cheeks became tenfold in color. "Thank you Tommy" Barry gave him a warm smile.
Aw. The way he said my name. Cuteness x10.
They parted ways and he saw Barry returning on his table.
He wants to see Barry Allen again.
He will find a way.
Screw it.
So now he needs to go back to where his best friend is staying. Back to the Balcony.
11:10 PM
To: Tommy Merlyn
Fr: Oliver Queen
Oliver Queen (11:11 pm): Don't tell me you are still backstage? I will wait for you here.
Tommy Merlyn (11:12 pm): I just left like 5 . I am with Laurel now. But I am on my way Ollie! I know you miss me!
Oliver Queen (11:14 pm): No, I don't. Hurry up .
Tommy Merlyn (11:15 pm): Yes ! Ha ha ha.
While waiting for Tommy's return he can still see clearly below Barry's movements on how he interacts with his family, how he laughs, how he devours his food. Which he finds it adorable. At this time as well people are beginning to disperse at the Grand Ballroom Hall. Congratulating each other. And some of them are leaving, maybe getting back to their room to rest.
He also sent an SMS to Felicity to make a research about Barry Allen. Forwarding the photo which was sent by Tommy earlier.
Several minutes have passed and Tommy arrived at the Balcony.
"Hello Ollie!" Tommy greeted him emphasizing the 'e' at the end.
"Spill it out Merlyn" Oliver stood up and crossed his arms.
"Whoa! Did I do something wrong here? Hmmmm….maybe I did. I did a crime tonight. I just hugged and kissed him on his cheek and gave him a half dozen bouquet of flowers. Is that life imprisonment? or Lethal Injection?" Tommy looked at Oliver feigning his innocence.
Oliver just rolled his eyes and laughed at how Tommy described his close-up meeting with Barry Allen. This idiot is lucky. He should be thankful that he is my best friend or else.
"Hey Ollie. You can hug me and I can kiss you on your cheeks, so that I can transfer your Barry's essence. Come here!" Tommy made a hug gesture and pouted his lips to kiss Oliver. But Oliver just pushed him away and they both laughed at how silly they both looked.
"I will find a way to do it myself and not kiss on the cheeks" he grinned.
"Aw! So aggressive ! I like that! Wanna bet? He never had his first kiss yet and he is still a virgin" he pulled out his wallet and took out 5 pcs. of a $100 bill.
"Just shut….." as Tommy and Oliver reached the lobby. Oliver was surprised to see Barry Allen standing a few feet away from them. Like he is waiting for someone.
He needs to hide and he can't let anyone see him this evening. Luckily, he found a good hiding spot where he can see Barry. Tommy joining him.
"Hey Ollie. This is a good hiding spot. I can shout and call for Barry..umph!" Oliver covered Tommy's mouth.
For the next few minutes, he observed Barry. This is the first time he has seen him up close. Wow. He can see Barry's countenance so clearly. His body built, his skin, how tall he is for his age, his rosy cheeks, those sexy lips, the color of his hair, the color of his Tux - it is a midnight Blue which suits him perfectly. But what Oliver had seen in full detail is his eyes.
An endless green.
Beautiful green eyes.
It reminds him of a very pretty emerald stone.
And the way he smiles.
He is really smitten with Barry Allen.
He can no longer form any words on how to describe him.
Although he felt a pang of jealousy when he saw how Barry admired the flowers given to him by Tommy. He just gave Tommy his death glare.
They also couldn't helped, but eavesdropped on the little conversation of the West's, Barry and Eddie.
"Bartholomew Henry Allen! I can't see everywhere. I really hate you! Hey! I am talking to you! BARRYYYY!" Iris began punching Barry's arms which made Oliver flinch.
"Awwww! Why do I have to suffer from your misfortunes Sis. I don't know where he is. You can talk to these flowers, they might know where Tommy is - Hey Calla Lilies do you know where Tommy is?" Barry responded teasingly.
"Wow! You call him on his first name now. I so hate you tenfold Barryyy!"
Barry laughed so hard at Iris' reaction. Followed by Eddie and Joe.
Barry's laugh was like music to Oliver's Ears.
It is also the first time he heard about Barry's full name. So he had to send an SMS to Felicity later on.
He and Tommy watched as the four leaved the lobby and went through the elevators and return to their respective rooms.
Oliver checked his surroundings and made sure that no one will see them. And they made their way to their rooms as well. He bid goodnight to Tommy, while his best friend is still teasing him endlessly.
February 19, 2012 - 12:48 am
To: Felicity Smoak
Fr: Oliver Queen
Oliver Queen (12:48 am): I got Barry Allen's full name this might help you more with your research - Bartholomew Henry Allen.
Felicity Smoak (12:50 am): On it! And wow his name is mouthful. I also already told John and Roy about our meeting later at the Arrow Cave 10 pm sharp. I will give you a full report later on as well. See you Oliver!
Oliver Queen(12:58 am): Thank you Felicity and how many times do I have to remind you. We are still not calling it that.
February 19, 2012 - 9:00 pm
Oliver arrived an hour earlier at the Foundry. He already saw that Felicity is already there and as usual typing furiously on her keyboard.
"Hello Felicity. Good evening" Oliver greeted the Blonde, but it seems that Felicity is concentrating too much on what she is doing. She didn't notice Oliver's arrival.
"Felicity!" Oliver raised his voice and it startled the blonde from her deep concentration.
If anyone could just see her reaction it is so comical.
"Oops! , I mean , Errrr Arrow. Hey! Oliver, I didn't know that you are here already and I am almost done with what you asked of me. And you will love what I just discovered and this Barry Allen guy is so cute that I want to ask him out on a date but I realized that he is too young so I might consider myself a pedo and…I am a girl and a pedo what would my Mom will think of me…..." Felicity babbled and Oliver needs to cut her off.
"Okay. Okay Felicity. Breathe in, breathe out. Now start from the Beginning" he commanded her. But before Felicity was about to start, John and Roy just arrived.
"Hey Oliver. Good to see you again man" Diggle patted Oliver's shoulders.
"Oliver, welcome back!" Roy shakes his hands.
"Thank you guys" he gave them a warm smile.
"So what is this meeting about?" Diggle asked Oliver.
"Good thing Felicity hasn't started yet. You will know the reason why I called everyone of you here" Oliver explained.
"Felicity, you can start now".
Felicity nodded as Oliver instructed her to start.
"This is what I found out about Bartholomew Henry Allen" as she started explaining and typing, a lot of pictures pops out on the large screen. His pictures on french magazines, his involvements in Teen fashion shows from the known brands in Paris, pictures from Lacrosse magazine, his cover photo on a Top Model Student mag - wearing his Dalton uniform.
"When he was adopted by Lord Antoine Smythe and Lady Lilian, his named was changed to Sebastian Smythe and used it for 5 years" as Felicity explained her findings. Diggle, interrupted her.
"Wait. The Smythe's are one of the shareholders of Queen Consolidated right?" Felicity nodded and continued explaining.
"Unfortunately, when the Smythe's died the government took all of their properties and stocks claiming that the Smythe's owe a Billion worth of taxes, which I find it ironic. And because of the tragedy, Sebastian Smythe a.k.a Barry Allen was left penniless and orphaned the second time around. Oh, I forgot to tell you this. His real parents died and was murdered right in front of him when he was 11" Felicity showing the articles and Barry's younger photos with Henry and Nora Allen.
Have I seen them before? They look so familiar and Barry's younger photo, he reminds me of someone I know from the past. Oliver thought upon staring at the photo of the Allens.
"And guess what? I also find these videos of his performances during sectionals, regionals and nationals during his Captain days as a warbler at Dalton. Wow! This boy is sooooo talented. I was also able to find his Valedictorian speech video, uploaded by unknown. Oliver you must watch this" when Oliver and the others finished watching Sebastian Smythe's graduation speech. Everyone in the room was dumbstruck. Especially Oliver, he felt touched by it, Barry sees him as his Hero while he only sees himself as a killer.
"Wow, this kid is awesome. The Arrow as his Hero and he is very intelligent and talented. Graduating at the age of 16. He skips like 2-3 years of grade. So Felicity what University he is currently in?" Roy commented and asked the blonde.
"Sadly, Barry is not studying at any University as of the moment. Because, when the Smythe's died he fall into depression and…..here see this. I found his medical records at Central City General Hospital dated back between August to November of 2011" Felicity was almost teary eyed while showing them Barry's medical records.
"Poor kid" Diggle just shook his head and was loss for words.
Oliver, didn't know what to say on the information that he just learned about his Angel today. Barry attempted suicide. Who would have thought that a very beautiful angel like him, wants to take his own life.
"I made more research and Barry is applying again for scholarship programs to attend University this year. His Scholarship from the Ivy League universities has been cancelled and the reason was Mental Instability ? What the hell!" Felicity stood up and stumped her feet out of frustration.
Felicity felt sorry and sad for what happened to Barry. She wants to hack all the database from those Ivy League Universities and break their security. Felicity walks back and forth in front of her computer and biting her nails out of anger, until Diggle stopped her.
"Calm down Felicity and sit" and she obeyed.
"If you don't mind Oliver. Why are you so interested about this boy?" Diggle furrowed his eyebrows.
"I met him at the event yesterday but he didn't saw me. No one saw me and know that I am the event except for Captain Lance and Tommy. Then, I also heard from the Captain about the story of this boy. It piqued my interest, so I made Felicity do a little research. I think he needs my help" Oliver looks at everyone.
"What kind of help Oliver?" Roy asked.
"Roy, you will enter University this year right?" Roy nodded.
"What are you trying to imply Oliver?" Diggle was curious now.
"I want to support Barry's education. I will cover everything from his undergraduate studies, masteral up to his Doctoral degree. I want the best for Barry. And I want him to study at the University where Roy is currently enrolled, so that you can protect him" Oliver looked at Roy and he approves.
"Are you sure about this Oliver? Your parents might not approved of this" Diggle looked at him worriedly.
"Nobody will know, only the four of us. I will use my own money. Barry will never know that I am his benefactor. I will use a different name. And Diggle this is where you will come in, you will act as my middle man to Barry and the West's. You will be Robin Smith's secretary. They will never see us together. Oliver Queen, doesn't know John Diggle. I know all of you will question my decision. But this is final" Oliver stood before them showing his resolve.
"I will support you Oliver! Barry deserves a good future" Felicity stood up and smiled at Oliver.
"Me too Oliver, I will protect Barry with all my strength and I will treat him as my younger brother" Roy smiled warmly at Oliver.
"Oliver, this is the first time I saw your determination in helping someone without the use of violence. And I am so proud of you man. I will also help Barry as much as I can" Diggle gave Oliver a brotherly hug.
Oliver is so grateful to have Team Arrow on his side.
March 1,2012
To my Lovely Bear,
It's been 11 years, since we last saw each other at the Park. Those eskimo kisses is still fresh on my mind.
Do you always go to Harold Park, waiting for me? If yes, I am so sorry if I was not able to fulfill my promise to you. You see my life is so complicated.
How did I find you? I think this is what you call destiny.
I am mesmerized to Barry Allen, the moment I saw him at that stage and heard him sang the song I requested at the Rooftop Bar….I was so captivated. He plagued my mind for how many nights and then I was able to see him again after 3 days.
He sang again this time. And once again I am not just mesmerized but I was already smitten by him. I heard of his story from a friend and this piqued my interest. So, I made a thorough research. I saw his pictures from his childhood days up to present and printed them out. And what struck me is how his younger self reminded me of you.
I remember the time when me and my Sister Thea, cleaned the storage room as she is looking for something important. And that is how I have come across an old small box. Inside is your letter and our picture together. I reread the letter and I thought that it would be impossible for us to meet again and you would forget about me and so do I.
When I put the pictures side by side. Our picture together and Barry's young photo with his parents.
It is you.
I have finally found you Bear.
You grew up beautifully.
My heart jumped with joy. Knowing that the sweet 6 years old kid that I only know in the name of Bear is the same person that I wanted to see so badly soon - Barry Allen.
I also felt sadness that I wasn't there for you when a tragedy struck your family. I am so sorry Bear. I know how hard it is for a sweet young child like you to deal with so much sadness. You didn't deserve it. But I guess it was inevitable.
I know that you will not read this letter soon. But this is my response to your old letter. To come and find you when you get older.
The world is so vast, we are 600 miles apart and yet I was able to find you. I will be able to fulfill that Forgotten Promises that we shared.
We will see each other soon.
I am looking forward in seeing those beautiful Green Eyes of yours.
Will you still remember me?
After 11 years, I know you will see me differently.
I will face you as a man now. Who will stood by you and protect you at all cost.
I will never leave your side now. So be ready.
And this time I will introduce myself fully to you.
As Oliver Jonas Queen.
With so much Love and misses you,
Your Lollie