The Resistance || Money Heist

That Stupid Belt .035

Lisbon found herself drawn closer to the cameras, her curiosity intensifying as she attempted to discern the object in Ava's hands. Through the earpiece, she inquired, "What are you holding, Valencia?" Her interest was particularly piqued by the unusual behavior exhibited by Sergio after the mention of a belt; he seemed to be concealing important information. Additionally, the fact that he had sent Berlin away only added to her unease, stirring a sense of foreboding deep within her.

           Ava, aware of Lisbon's scrutiny, turned her gaze toward the camera but chose to remain silent, reluctant to disclose what she was holding. Despite her best efforts, Lisbon had already deduced that the item in question was likely a belt, a possibility suggested by Palermo's earlier comments. However, she struggled to comprehend why this belt carried such significant implications.

         "Berlin deserves better" Palermo commented. The phrase uttered by Palermo, stating that Berlin deserved better, began to trigger troubling thoughts in Lisbon's mind. She was a perceptive woman, known for her intelligence and strong opinions, and she was not one to dismiss her instincts lightly.

       Palermo, having been privy to the unfolding conversation, interjected, "A belt, Lisbon." Although he had stepped away momentarily, he was still within earshot of Ava and remained engaged in the situation. The Professor felt a surge of frustration—both at Palermo's interruptions and at himself. Memories of his past decisions weighed heavily on him; he recognized that his actions were not appropriate, particularly given his relationship with Ava and her ties to Berlin, his brother. The implications of childish behavior hung over him, intensified by the conflicting emotions of guilt and the undeniable pleasure from the secret they shared.

         Lisbon firmly called out Sergio's name, prompting the Professor to snap out of his reverie and redirect his attention to her. "Palermo," she stated with a sense of urgency, addressing the matter with precision, "Why is the belt so important?" Her unwavering gaze fell on Sergio, who appeared visibly agitated, his head cradled in his hands, suggesting that he was grappling with the situation's realities.

         Palermo's response was cold and devoid of empathy. "I am afraid that is a question only the Professor can adequately address," he replied. He moved closer to Ava, extending his hand toward the belt she held as if it were a treasured possession. In retaliation, Ava scoffed and tightened her grip, adamantly refusing to relinquish the belt. This action prompted Lisbon to redirect her focus toward Sergio, her eyes analyzing his distressed expressions as he processed the implications of their conversation.

       "Fuck you, Palermo," Ava exclaimed hotly, her voice thick with indignation. Palermo, unfazed, met her gaze with a mocking laugh, displaying an absence of concern for her feelings. He was unaware of the depth of the connection between Sergio and Ava, yet the palpable tension in the air suggested that something significant had transpired between them.

          "Fuck you, whore," Palermo retorted, his words dripping with hostility. Despite his bloodshot eyes, he remained determined to confront the situation. Ava's frustration escalated to a boiling point, prompting her to retaliate physically by delivering a swift punch to his face. Just as this confrontation threatened to escalate further, Tokyo rushed to intervene, swiftly grasping Ava by the arm to prevent her from launching another attack on Palermo, illustrating the volatile dynamics at play among the group.

"What the hell?" Tokyo shouted, her voice echoing with disbelief as she stepped back, her eyes wide and searching. Ava instinctively pulled away from her, straightening her posture in a futile attempt to regain some sense of composure. Tokyo's gaze fell sharply on the leather belt clenched tightly in Ava's hand, and her expression hardened into steely resolve.