𝙻𝚒𝚗𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝙵𝚒𝚛𝚎 | ∙𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐳∙

11. Fresh Air

Luke couldn't stand men that thought woman were things they could toy with. Growing up with sisters and his mother, he had learned to respect their strength. When men with ugly words came at them he had defended them. So when the man acted like that to Felicity, Luke was ready to break all hell loose to protect his friend and teammate. But she had handled it with a headstrong attitude. Clearly she didn't need his help.

"And then she beat him." Matt exclaims to the rest of the team when they gathered at their table.

"Felicity, the woman you are." JJ says with a grin.

She smiles back." He needed to be taught a lesson."

Everyone celebrates her victory with more drinks before gathering around the trivia table. Mid game, Luke notices Felicity slipping away. He finds himself following her.

"Where are you going?" He asks when he catches up with her.

"For some fresh air." She answers simply. When she notices his worries expression she chuckles." I'll be okay, Lu."

"I'm still coming with you."

"You don't have to do that."

"I know, I want too." So she gives up and they make their way out of the bar. She takes a seat on the curb. He takes a seat beside her.

For a little while they sit in comfortable silence. Enjoying the light breeze and watching the cars drive past. Luke finally looks at her and asks the question he's been wondering all day." You okay?"

She avoids eye contact with him." I'm fine."

"No you're not." He answers quietly. "You came in late today. You're never late. You look worn out."

"Are you profiling me?" She asks, an amused expression on her face.

He stares at her." No I'm making an observation as a friend."

She sighs a sigh that sounds like she's about to collapse." I'm fine, Luke. I promise." She gives him a pat on the arm." Thanks for worrying about me though."

He isn't convinced but he also knows better than to push her. "Anytime." He gives her a smile.

She returns it but it fades just as quick as it's there." I think I'm going to head home."

"Let me drive you." He offers, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. He gives it a light squeeze.

"I can drive."

"I know." Is all he can say as he walks to the car. She doesn't argue and gets into the passenger seat. He drives her home, she stares out the window as he does so. He wonders what's on her mind. What's eating her alive?

He insists on walking her to her door which she obliges to looking to tired to say otherwise. He says his good nights and leaves, nodding a goodbye to Quinn.

Hes about half way home when he realizes she left her phone in his car. He turns back immediately.