Arrowheart

Chapter 26

Oliver decided to take me home while Diggle called some buddies to get security guards for me and Hannah. When we arrive at my apartment, Oliver takes my hand momentarily, looking me in the eyes; I can tell he is as scared as I am.

Oliver: "Liz, whatever you do, please don't leave the apartment until I have Helena under control."

I put a hand on his cheek, trying to comfort him with a smile.

Elizabeth: "I promise. Make it fast because I won't let her destroy our lives."

He gives me a small smile. He examines my arm for me.

Oliver: "Are you sure you two will be okay by yourselves?"

Elizabeth: "We'll be fine, Ollie. I won't open the door for anyone. Mr. Diggle said he is giving the bodyguard for the balcony a key so I don't have to open the door for anyone. I'm just worried about you. Are you sure you can handle Helena on your own?"

Oliver: "I know I can. I won't let her come anywhere near you or Hannah ever again."

He kisses my lips.

Elizabeth: "Just try not to get hurt."

Oliver: "I will."

I kiss him, and he leaves after saying good night to Hannah. Carly and AJ went home soon after I arrived, and I let Hannah stay in my bed for the night.

Hannah wanted to go to Moira's house the following evening, but I couldn't go. I had too many meetings all day, along with so much paperwork. I stayed at the office till 10 pm to catch up on everything. There was always a bodyguard around me as well. They would stay beside me, open doors, and survey the room before I stepped in, even in my office. It made me feel like the president.

When I finally get home, I immediately hop in the shower, letting my stress melt away as the hot water cascades. There's just one thing bothering me; Helena. Would she hurt Hannah to get to Oliver? Will Oliver have to kill someone?

I'm broken from my thoughts at the sound of someone knocking on my front door. I quickly shut off the water and put my bathrobe on before opening the front door to find Oliver. He looks so tired, as if he has the weight of the world resting on his shoulders.

He tries to say something, but I cut him off, pulling him in by his cheeks. His lips meet mine, and we move in sync. We fumble back toward my bedroom as we disrobe each other. It feels as if I haven't been able to breathe without him. Leaving our worries behind because all that matters is that he's okay and here by my side.

The following day, I wake up to find Oliver entering my room. He looks so tired. I immediately get up and walk over to him.

Elizabeth: "Oliver, what happened?"

Oliver: "Helena attacked Felicity. I had to save her and stop Helena from killing her father. I'm so sorry I had to leave you without a word."

I pull him into a hug.

Elizabeth: "It's okay, Ollie. You did what you had to."

He hesitantly returns my hug.

Oliver: "How can you forgive me so easily?"

Elizabeth: "It's simple. I've always considered the Hood, well, you, a hero. Also, you're not great at lying. I knew there had to be something else going on."

He chuckles as we separate and sit on the bed.

Oliver: "I've been told that a lot lately. However, Tommy called me a murderer. I thought for sure you would, too. I didn't want you to hate me."

Elizabeth: "Wait, Tommy knows?"

Oliver: "Yeah. I only told him so he would listen to save your father's life that night you two got shot."

I nod, understanding why he told him.

Elizabeth: "Who else knows?"

Oliver: "Mr. Diggle and Felicity. That's it."

Elizabeth: "I already knew Diggle knows. Is that why Tommy hasn't been around you lately?"

Oliver: "Yeah. I really hope he can see past it, though."

Elizabeth: "He'll come around. You two have been best friends forever. He might need some time, but he won't be able to stay mad forever."

He manages to smile while I hold his hand to comfort him.

Elizabeth: "Promise me something, Ollie. If being the Hood ever gets in the way of being with Hannah and me at any time, just tell me. Don't lie to me."

Oliver: "I promise, Liz."