Code of Silence

Epilogue

PRESENT DAY

Oliver sat behind his desk in his office, waiting for Slade. He had something important to talk to him about, but wanted to do it in private. He called him in when he heard a knock on the door and waved for Slade to close the door and take the seat across from him.

"What's going on kid?" Slade said as he took a seat.

Oliver leaned forward, his elbows on his desk and gave Slade a serious look. "Slade I have something to ask you and I need an answer before you leave this room."

Slade, gave him a curious look, as Oliver sat back in his chair, relaxed, crossing his hands over his chest. "In the time we have known each other; I have always been able to rely on you. Finding you in that room, and you pledging your loyalty to the brotherhood was a good day for me. I made a good friend. One that I can trust. One that I trust with my child. Therefore I would like to ask you to stay in Star City and become my second in command both in the mob and in the Bratva."

Oliver watched Slade's expression as he pondered Oliver's words. He liked being here. Oliver, Felicity and Zoya were like family to him. He had nothing to go back to in Russia and had only stayed there out of loyalty to the brotherhood. He had wanted to start a new life, and Oliver was giving him the perfect opportunity to do so.

"I would be honored to stay with you Oliver, but on one condition." Slade said, and Oliver quirked his brow at him.

"And that is?"

"I get to remain Zoya's bodyguard." Slade said. He had no hesitation and Oliver could see the love in his eyes that he had for their daughter. Oliver stood and held out his hand for Slade to shake. Slade stood and they shook hands and Oliver said, "I wouldn't have it any other way."

They both smiled and Oliver felt good about his choice. He had talked in length about his decision with Anatoli and he had been supportive.

"The jet is at your disposal for when you decide to head back and gather your things." Oliver said and they both headed out of the office, Oliver clapping Slade's shoulder.

Felicity came walking down the hall, Zoya in her arms, and the baby immediately held out her arms for Slade, "Ade!! Ade!!" coming out of her mouth. Slade smiled a big goofy smile, and took Zoya into his arms gladly.

"She must know I am staying." he said, his cheeks turning a beguiling shade of pink for such a big, tough man. They watched him walk into the living room, Zoya happily cooing away to him, and Felicity grinned.

"So he agreed? Good. I was worried I was going to have to use Zoya's baby eyes on him if he turned you down. You know I don't play fair." she laughed.

"That I do my love." Oliver said. "That I do!"

***

Anatoli fidgeted in his seat. He had picked a table at the back of the restaurant where it was more intimate, quiet, hoping that it would calm his nerves. It had not. He saw Moira walk in the front door and he smiled softly. She looked beautiful. He stood and kissed her cheek and then held her chair as she sat down. He glanced over and motioned to the waiter as he took a seat across from her and cleared his throat.

"You look beautiful today моя любовь (my love)!" he said and saw Moira blush a pretty shade of pink.

The waiter brought a bottle of wine and poured them each a glass before Anatoli had him bring their first course.

"I had them cook your favorites." he said. Moira looked at him in surprise.

"Wow. What is all of this for Anatoli?" she asked curious.