Not every relationship is built to last and I’m afraid Felicity and Barry’s romance on The Flash and Arrow (or rather lack thereof) has officially run its course. That’s not to say that these two wouldn’t fit well together. In fact, judging from their interactions in the past, I’d even go so far as to say they’d make a downright adorable couple. So what’s the problem? Well, Miss Smoak already has a handsome, charming suitor with a six-pack in her life… and for once I’m not talking about Oliver. That’s right, folks — Ray Palmer is gearing up to become the new leading man in Felicity’s life, placing all other ‘ships firmly on the back burner.
Now, there’s no denying that Barry and Felicity share a great deal of chemistry together. That sweet goodbye kiss that they shared during Felicity’s guest star appearance on The Flash made that fact pretty evident. But that’s not the issue here, especially since I’m starting to think there’s no one Emily Bett Rickards doesn’t have insane on-screen chemistry with. (And her character certainly does have “a type.”) However, this lovable hackivist has one too many hunky heroes on her plate and it’s time we face the harsh reality that something — or rather someone — has gotta give. And in this case, I’d say Raylicity is in, while Barlicity was just a flash in the pan (pun intended). And here’s why.
The Doom of Long Distance
As a dedicated Klaroline enthusiast, I know first hand what being on separate shows can mean for a ‘shipping pair. It’s not good. Sure, I may still live in denial and hope for the day when these two long-lost characters will finally reconnect, but that doesn’t change the fact that, in the here and now, they barely get any face time together. Not exactly the greatest foundation for a long-lasting romance, is it? Like it or not, long distance is tough, even if you’re the fastest man alive. And like the saying goes: out of sight, out of mind.
The Shirtless Effect
Barry may have history with Felicity, but like any human being, we tend to focus on what’s right in front of us. And right now what’s in front of us (and Felicity) is the image of Ray in all his shirtless workout glory. Barry who?
Forbidden Fruit Tastes the Sweetest
Some could argue that Felicity shouldn’t like Ray. He did, after all, take over Queen Consolidated, thus ruining any hope Oliver had of taking back his family’s business. Granted, Ray plans on using the company and his many resources to do good in the world, so he can’t be faulted for that. However, siding with him feels somewhat like going against or even betraying Oliver in a way, making Raylicity almost forbidden. And we all know what happens when we’re not allowed to have something… it makes us want it all the more.
Sorry Barry, but the more I see Ray and Felicity together, the more I’m convinced Mr. Allen’s love life lies with someone else. (I’m looking at you, Caitlin!) So stick a fork in Barliicity, people. They’re done.
Images: Cate Cameron/The CW (2); breathewhenithinkaboutyou, thequeenandherlittleprince/Tumblr
