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Chapter Text

1. Tokyo

Tokyo was the first to ask herself what was actually going on between the two men. She had been on her way to her room when she heard singing from where the dining room was. Curiosity got the better of her and she quietly made her way towards where the sound was coming from. What she saw made her freeze and she wondered if perhaps she had had too much to drink during the day.

Standing near the lit fire stood Berlin and the Professor, both holding their own glass of wine whilst singing together. But that wasn't what made her brain screech to a halt. What did that was the fact Berlin had been caressing the Professor’s head and now had his hand resting on the other man’s cheek, thumb brushing ever so slightly as they swayed.

Both men stared intently into each other’s eyes and Tokyo was entranced by how different both men looked in this precise moment, with Berlin looking more serious than she had ever seen him and the Professor with a happy grin on his face. They both looked so intensely at each other that Tokyo was unwilling to believe this hadn’t been going on since before they had all been brought here.

Her thoughts were proven even more correct when she bore witness to both men finishing their song and putting the wine glasses down so they could embrasse. Berlin was being surprisingly soft as he held the Professor tightly to him.

Tokyo was only able to see the older man’s face from her hiding place and she was once again stunned by his expression. Eyes watering slightly and face solemn, Berlin looked the opposite of what she had come to expect from the man. He looked human. Too human.

Before she could see anything else Tokyo made a quick retreat to her room and told herself she would ask the Professor later, why the rules didn’t apply to him but they did to her. It wasn’t until she was safely back in her room that she wondered what their relationship was exactly.

She hadn’t thought Berlin to be interested in men with the amount of staring at her and Nairobi's ass he did, but she also hadn’t expected him to have a soft side. An other thing she hadn't expected was that the Professor could let go like he had earlier with Berlin, the man seemingly stuck being awkward and stiff around other humans. Clearly both men were hiding more than their names from the rest of the group.

Her thoughts wandered as she tried to remember all the interactions she saw between the Professor and Berlin. Surprisingly she realised this was the first real interaction she had seen between the two men without it being part of a larger group conversation.

Mind made up, Tokyo decided she would have to gather more information before she actually did anything. If only, to satisfy her curiosity.

Chapter Text

2. Rio

Rio wondered when Tokyo had started staring at the Professor and Berlin so much. They were in the middle of having breakfast when he had noticed her strange behaviour. Berlin was up before them as per usual so Rio didn’t quite get why the man was being eyed so shrewdly by his girlfriend. Only, when the Professor sat down next to Berlin, Rio noticed Tokyo’s eyes were now flicking from one to the other.

Curious as to what she was examining he decided to discreetly follow her example and watch both men. At first he didn’t see anything noteworthy, Berlin favoring his coffee over any interaction at all and the Professor rubbing tiredly at his eyes, the only noise in the room being Helsinki, Oslo and Nairobi filling the air with their joking and chatting. Rio wished his and Tokyo’s interaction’s were that simple. He sometimes wondered if she really cared about him, but it wasn’t as if they could openly be in a relationship either, so he didn’t blame her for wanting to be discreet.

His eyes were brought back to the focus of Tokyo’s attention when he saw the Professor yawn and pinch the bridge of his nose with a frown. Berlin seemed to have noticed this as well and a small smirk was pulling at the edges of his lips. He leaned in slightly and the only reason Rio heard anything was because he was watching them.

“A little too much to drink, Professor?” he purred. Rio’s eyes widened and he wondered if he was reading the situation correctly. The Professor opened one eye and glared at Berlin.

“Berlin.” He sighed, closing it again. Berlin snorted and Rio watched as the man poured a cup of coffee before adding some cream and one sugar. Said cup was then placed calmly before the Professor with practiced ease.

As breakfast progressed Rio saw how close and at ease Berlin and the Professor were with each other. He wondered how he had missed such a thing but also how long these two had known each other to be so comfortable with each other. Another thing that made him curious was what Tokyo had seen or heard that made her watch the two men so intently

Rio had spent half the day trying to get Tokyo to talk to him alone and had been failing miserably. The woman seemingly vanished everytime he was able to get close. He knew they couldn’t be open about their relationship but he didn’t think she would be this intent on flat out ignoring him all day.

A loud crash to his left had him jumping in surprise and he was about to go check what had happened when his eyes caught sight of Berlin standing over a mess of books and smashed porcelain further down the halway. He was looking down at the mess with a glare and Rio wondered if he was imagining the shaking hands. Not wanting the man to know he had seen anything, Rio hid behind the closest door and stared as he came face to face with Tokyo.

The woman made a quick gesture to silence any attempt at talking and then moved so that she could see out the small space left by the slightly open door. Rio joined her curiously, ignoring her glare.

Berlin was no longer alone, the Professor having joined him in front of the mess. They couldn’t hear what was being said from here but Berlin was staring forlornly at the broken pieces on the ground and the Professor had his hand on the man’s shoulder in the universal sign of support and seemed to be murmuring something to him.

Seemingly unimpressed, Berlin gave the Professor a deadpan glare and brushed the man’s hand off before walking away, leaving the mess behind. Surprisingly the pProfessor didn’t call after him and just seemed to roll his eyes, as if used to this. Leaning down, he picked up the fallen books, kicked the rest of the mess out of the way and then went in the same direction as berlin.

When both men were out of sight Tokyo pulled away from the door and glared down at Rio’s crouched form.

“What are you doing following me around?” she asked. Rio grinned awkwardly and stood up.

“Uh… I wanted to know why you’ve been staring at Berlin and the Professor since this morning...” he explained “I think I get it now.” he added quickly. Tokyo lifted a brow and crossed her arms.

“Oh really?” she asked. Rio nodded quickly and Tokyo smirked. “You think they’re fucking too?” she asked. Rio flushed but nodded uncomfortably. Opening the door Tokyo let Rio step out first before joining him as they made their way to the dining room.

“I’ve caught them singing yesterday, they seemed far too close to not having known each other before the whole plan.” Tokyo explained in a hushed voice “They were all over each other near the end! You should have seen Berlin!” she exclaimed with wide eyes. “He was just staring into the Professor’s eyes through the whole thing, like he was the only thing there.” she finished. Rio stared wide eyed at Tokyo, not really believing what she was saying.

“I mean, that would explain why the professor was so out of it this morning?” he half asked. Tokyo nodded and then frowned.

“I’m angry that the professor is going against the rules he put in place when we have to follow them.” she said after a pause. Rio nodded with a frown of his own.

“We can use this against them if we need to. We shouldn’t say anything.” Tokyo said, turning her intense gaze on him. Rio just lifted his hands and nodded his head. He didn’t want to get on Berlin and the Professor's bad sides anyway.

Chapter Text

3. Tokyo, Denver, Rio and Nairobi

Tokyo, Denver, Rio and Nairobi were on their way to their rooms after an evening out drinking when they heard strange noises from the Professor’s office.

“What do you think that was?” asked Denver with a grin “Do you think the Professor is getting some?” he added with a giggle. There was a small pause before everyone giggled at the image. Their laughing was cut short though when they were passing the room and heard a loud hiss.

“Do you think he’s jerking off?” Whispered Nairobi with a slight flush. The other’s weren’t much better and it was Tokyo who ended up going towards the door and looking in through the slight opening. All three watched as the woman’s mouth dropped open in shock and immediately wanted to know what she had seen. Shuffling up to her, they all peeked in, pushing the door slightly to get a better view. Nairobi slapped a hand over her mouth.

From where they were they could clearly see what had shocked Tokyo into silence. Shirtless and bent over the Professor’s desk was none other than Berlin. Stood behind the man was the Professor himself, holding his hunched form over Berlin’s back with a surprisingly muscled arm. They hadn’t seen the Professor in short sleeves before and were shocked by how fit he seemed, tank top hugging his body. They couldn’t make out what the Professor’s other hand was doing as it was hidden by a pile of books on the desk but it wasn’t hard to figure out when Berlin hissed and flinched forwards.

“Are they-” Denver was shushed by Nairobi when the Professor snapped something at Berlin that they didn’t make out before shoving the man’s chest down onto the table. Luckily his face was turned away from him so he didn’t see them but Nairobi wished she could see his expression right now. They heard a grunt from the Professor.

“Andrès!” he growled. Everyone’s breath caught as they heard Berlin’s real name.

“I’dd like to see you try and stay still when you’re getting fuck-gah!” Berlin was cut off by the Professor as he shoved his head down on the desks surface.

“What on earth are you doing?” came Berlin’s strained voice. He sounded entirely breathless. A smirk pulled at the Professor’s lips and they watched him lean forwards. Mouth close to Berlin’s ear.

“Keeping you still.” Tokyo grimaced and pulled away from the door.

“I don’t need to see this.” she muttered before grabbing a blushing Rio and pulling him down the hall towards her room. Nairobi lifted a brow after their retreating backs and grinned as she guessed what they were about to do, if Rio’s weird walk was anything to go by.

Denver was doing much better and Nairobi took pity on him. She was sad that she would miss the rest of the show but the poor boy wouldn’t be able to keep his mouth shut tomorrow if she didn’t do anything about it.

“Denver.” she whispered, waving a hand in front of the guy’s face. Denver jumped and looked at her with a shocked expression before swiftly getting up and trying to run off. Nairobi snorted and after sending a final look at the scene she pulled the door closed, rushing after the younger man.

POV change.

Andrès hissed as Sergio pulled another piece of glass from his back. His brother was being as gentle as possible but that didn’t change the fact he was taking huge pieces of stained glass out of his back whilst he was bent over the man’s desk. The air was warm and he could feel himself shiver every time Sergio’s cold fingers brushed his back.

“Stay still, Andrès.” snapped Sergio from behind him. Andrès grunted as he was pressed down into the desk by a surprisingly rough hand on his shoulder. Wanting to get his revenge, he sent a small kick out that ended up catching the younger man in the shin. “Andrès!” Sergio growled, voice slightly louder.

“I’dd like to see you try and stay still when you’re getting fuck-gah!” Andrès was cut off by Sergio suddenly pushing his head down. “What on earth are you doing?” Andrès hissed dangerously. Or at least that’s what he was going for.

“Keeping you still.”

Andrès clenched his teeth as he felt the urge to bite his brother. It would not injure him before he was finished fixing his back. God knows it was Sergio's fault he was in this situation in the first place. One of them clearly didn’t have a strong enough grip on the stained glass when they had been moving it. And it wasn’t Andrès. It wasn’t.

“Look.” started Sergio, still looking over the older man’s back “I’m almost done, the glass didn’t shatter into pieces small enough to hide under your skin so you should be fine.” he continued “I’ll just need to bandage your back and the right side of your neck where the glass actually cut you.”

“Well if you could hurry up that would be wonderful!” huffed Andrès, he paused. He smirked evilly and cleared his throat “Unless you like having me like this?” he asked with a faux innocent tone. Sergio tensed against the back of his legs and Andrès was surprised when instead of pulling away, his brother snorted and patted his shoulder.

“I’m done. Sit in the chair so I can finish looking after you.”

As Andrès sat up he wondered aloud when his little brother stopped getting uncomfortable with his jokes.

“When I met Martin.” answered Sergio. At Andrès’s curious look he continued “I will remind you he has made it his apparent life goal to make me uncomfortable.” Andrès laughed at this and he saw his little brother smile discreetly.

“That does seem like him.” he smiled fondly. “It is a pity he could not be part of the heist itself.”

“He’ll be there for the extraction.” Sergio shrugged, “You’ll see him then.” Andrès gave him an amused look.

“Ah, Hermanito, not a shred of Romance in those bones of yours!” he said dramatically, slinging an arm over Sergio’s shoulder “Such a shame! I’m sure I could find you a beautiful wife if you let me!” he leered. Sergio rolled his eyes and got back to patching his brother up. Ignoring the rest of his brother’s nonsense.

Chapter Text

4. Silvia

As Silvia was brought out of the room she could feel her heart beating faster than ever. She didn’t know what to expect when she arrived in the next room, but it definitely wasn’t for the man who called himself Berlin to just sit her in a chair and get her a glass of water.
“Calm down.” He said, staring at her intently, “Nothing’s going to happen to you.”

Her hands trembled as she took it from him and she wondered if he would drug her with it. As if reading her mind the man rolled his eyes and took the glass from her, taking a sip before handing it back.

“I would not stoop so low as to drug you.” said Berlin “That is disgusting.” he sneered. She shivered as he glared at her and she felt her breathing pick up again. Rolling his eyes the man took out some tape and zip ties, not helping her calm down in the least.

“I’m fine now. “ she said softly “I can go back to the others.” Berlin gave her a small smirk and just ignored her words.

Surprisingly he was not rough when he tied her up and put the tape on her mouth. Giving her a pat on the head she then left the room with a small wave.

“Relax. I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

To her great surprise, Silvia actually found herself calming down with the man gone. She didn’t know why he was leaving her unattended in this room but she wasn’t going to complain about getting some alone time.

Trying to take a deep breath was slightly hindered by the tape on her face but she knew that she would be in so much more trouble if she took it off and decided to just sit and wait. Looking around she wasn’t surprised to see the room was devoid of anything she could use as a weapon except, perhaps, a few metal chairs.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the door being swung open. Her breathing picked up again at the sudden noise but she was surprised to see it wasn’t Berlin who had barged in in such a way.

“Nairobi!” called Berlin’s voice from a bit further away “I told you the girl was fine.”

Nairobi, as the woman seemed to be called, sent a dirty look down the hall and Silvia wondered what was going to happen to her. The older woman knelt down before her and frowned at the tape on her mouth.

“Berlin! Why did you tie her up like this? “She asked angrily. Looking up Silvia saw Berlin leaning against the doorframe and let out a whimper. “Let me take this off you, carino.” hushed Nairobi reaching for the tape on Silvia’s mouth.

Taking a deep breath once the tape was removed, Silvia looked from Berlin to Nairobi with wary eyes.

“The Professor won’t be impressed, Berlin. He said not to harm the hostages! You already killed one and now what?” Started Nairobi angrily “What were you going to do to this girl?” she glared at Berlin.

“I’m offended that you think I would do anything to dear Silvia here.” hummed Berlin, but Silvia could see the underlying anger in his eyes. “I didn’t get you so you could come up with ridiculous theories on what I do to the hostages while you're not around, I brought you up here to help this girl calm down. So either help her or I’m just going to do things my way and dump her in the next room tied up and unable to scream.” he snapped. Silvia shivered and looked down at her hands, surprised to notice that Nairobi had taken them into hers. The woman seemed like the kindest up to now and Silvia hoped that it wasn't just a facade.

“You fucking women are all the same.” sighed Berlin after a short silence where no one said anything “I didn’t even do anything to scare her.” he added, tone slightly confused. Nairobi snorted and just sent him a look.

“You naturally have a creepy vibe, old man.” She laughed at him. Silvia tensed and waited for Berlin to blow up but to her surprise Nairobi just continued teasing him “You and the Professor both talk like you live in some old time gangster movie.” she mocked.

“It’s called class, querida.” he huffed, uncrossing his arms “I shouldn’t be surprised you don’t know what that is.” Sensing that the fight was about to degenerate, and not wanting to be stuck in the middle, Silvia interrupted with the same question as before.

“Can I go back to the others, please?” she asked hopefully. Maybe with Nairobi here the answer would be different. Luckily for her it seemed that was the case.

“Of course. Berlin shouldn’t have just kept you here.” As Nairobi cut the ties on her wrists Silvia saw Berlin was just staring impassively at the both of them. “Berlin. Find another way to scare the hostages.” said Nairobi. Berlin’s eyes snapped to hers angrily. “Please.” she added quickly.

Berlin sighed and stepped aside with a wave of his hand. Nairobi nodded curtly and grabbed Silvia’s hand pulling her back towards the entry hall rather than where she had been.

“But I-” Silva started only to be interrupted.

“The Professor wouldn’t be happy knowing what Berlin was doing.” Not for the first time, Silvia wondered who the professor was and why a man like Berlin was so intent on doing what would make him happy. Her first thought was that the Professor was his boss but that seemed wrong as well when she remembered him telling them about his “friend” with whom he talked on the phone regarding Ms.Gaztambina’s death. He had seemed rather sad for someone intent on explaining he had no empathy or guilt for what he had done. She had been sure he had some tears in his eyes earlier.

Chapter Text

5. Detective Raquel Morillo, Angel, Suarèz and police

When she had agreed to defame the man calling himself Berlin she had not expected for it to apparently lead to a massacre inside the Royal Mint.

“What the fuck is happening in there? What have you done?” asked Raquel angrily when the Professor picked up. There was silence on the other line. Those present exchanged wary looks.

“Professor?” asked Raquel, slower. A loud sigh filled the room making many uncomfortable.

“Inspectora.” came the robotic voice. They waited expecting more from the usually talkative man and were surprised when nothing came.

“That’s all you’re going to say? After you leaked our conversations to the media, leaving me in a really bad position before the public opinion and-” she was cut off by the sound of the phone hanging up. Everyone stared in shock at the now silent line.

“What was that?” asked Angel incredulously. Raquel didn’t know if he meant her behavior or the Professor’s.

Taking off her jacket and pulling her hair back, Raquel sat down once more, taking a deep breath before asking for them to try again. The phone rang once, twice, three times before the line finally clicked.

“Inspectora.” repeated the robotic voice. Raquel clenched her teeth.

“Professor.” she greeted back, “Is everything alright?” she asked, trying to figure out why he had hung up so suddenly. It would probably not be wise to ask what was happening straight away.

“Is everything alright?” repeated the Professor “I don’t know, Inspectora. Is it?” he asked, voice deceptively calm. Raquel debated on the best response and ended up going for a straight forwards approach.

“Can you tell me what exactly happened with those shots fired?” she asked.

“Of course. You see we have been testing some guns we thought had gotten wet. They work just fine, as you may have heard. Thank you for asking.” answered the Professor mockingly. There was a pause as those present stared in surprise at the recording device. This was the first time they had heard the Professor sound anything but lighthearted in their exchanges.

“That is a very plausible explanation indeed.” started Raquel “But there’s another possible explanation. That everything went wrong and you had to open fire and shoot hostages.”

“Yes. That is a possibility.” he answered flatly'' It's up to you to decide if you’re being positive or negative today.” he added.

“So you won't mind if I ask you something.” she said. The Professor didn't answer.

“Look, I want proof of the life of each hostage, recorded today, in front of a television broadcasting live. And it’s not negotiable.” Raquel listed, expecting some kind of contradiction.
“I wouldn’t dare haggle over something so delicate, inspector.” he answered, calm as ever. “One hour is all we need.” The line clicked. Everyone stayed rooted to the spot as Raquel removed the headset roughly.

“What the hell do you think that was about?” asked Suarèz.

“I don’t know. He seemed pissed. Maybe something did go wrong inside and having to show proof of life is not something he wants to be doing?” guessed Raquel “It could be anything!” she snapped, voices getting louder.

“What about the news?” asked Angel. They all turned towards him. “Maybe the Professor knows it’s…” he trailed off and gave them a pointed look.

“So you think he is offended on behalf of Fonollosa?” asked Colonel Prieto incredulously “Could it not be that he believes the news as well and thinks that Fonollosa is unfit to work for him?”

Raquel sighed as they set up for another call.
“Manipulating those proofs wasn’t an intelligent move. I would rather say it was stupid.” she started.

“Please inspector.” answered the Professor “No need to be so rude, these blunt messages and insults without a “ how are you, how was your day?” he sighed “Don’t tell me that’s the type of person you are.”

“Look, quite frankly, I have no time for nonsense.” Raquel snapped. What she was not expecting was for the man to snap back.

“No, clearly not. You have enough time to slander a man but not to be polite.” there was a short silence “15 seconds lost won't change your life inspector.” There was another pause. “So. Where were you going with your accusation?”

“...Those proofs of life hold no value, we have no option but to go in.” Explained Raquel “We can either do this peacefully,just coming in and looking or we can come in with the gas and heavy artillery to free the hostages.” she added.

“You want me to let you in?” the Professor asked, tone curious.

“Your choice” Raquel said, feeling braver than before. “Either we send in tanks and guns or… we have coffee and you show me all the hostages are alive.” There was some noise behind her but Raquel didn’t turn around to see what caused it. Her guess was that Angel didn’t agree with her plan.

“I’d be delighted to invite you in.” answered the Professor “How could I refuse?”

++

As Raquel stepped into the Mint she was surprised to see it was Andrès de Fonollosa, also known as Berlin, at the front of the group.

“Lift your arms.” He ordered calmly. Raquel clenched her teeth but did as asked. Surprised when he sent the one known as Tokyo to do the searching. She was also surprised to note he didn’t seem keen on looking at her.

“Your legs” added the woman as she patted her down.

“Where is the Professor?” Raquel asked, pretending the pat down didn’t make her uncomfortable was the best approach right now.

“He asked me to excuse him, but, due to discretion reasons, he can’t be present.” answered Fonollosa “Bear in mind that his face is not hitting the headlines, as ours are.” he smiled.

“She has no weapons,” called Tokyo from behind her. As the younger woman made her way back to the group Berlin looked down to his left and called forth another member.

“Rio, it’s your turn, do the honors.” Raquel tenses as she notices they had a scanning device.

“You’ll have to forgive us but, we have to be conscientious.” Berlin smiled. Raquel clenched her teeth at the man’s seemingly mocking tone. As the scanner went lower and lower, Raquel knew they were going to find the bug. As if reading her mind the scanner started beeping rapidly and she saw the group in front of her laugh.

“Raquel.” purred Belrin “It is said that the police isn’t dumb, but sometimes they look like it. Did you really think you would sneak a micro?” he asked with a grin. Raquel pursed her lips and stared him straight in the eyes.

“And did you think that my people wouldn’t make sure I was safe?” She answered sharply. Berlin’s expression turned slightly blank and he turned back towards Tokyo.

“Tokyo frisk the inspector again, but this time with a little more enthusiasm, as you know how.” he ordered. Raquel didn’t quite get the joke as Berlin smiled slightly as if finding the situation humorous and the young boy called Rio snickered, a wide grin in place.

She looked anywhere but at the man standing before her as Tokyo reached down and removed the bug, giving her a small leer as she examined the small item in her hand. It was handed over to Berlin who examined it with fake interest.

“You’ve left me gobsmacked” he started “the cops using cutting edge technology-” he paused for effect, seemingly finding the situation amusing. “-a perianal microphone.” Raquel held back a frown as Rio and Tokyo grinned in amusement. “Get rid of this.” Berlin said abruptly, handing it to the young teen. Raquel felt like letting out a breath in relief. The bug may have been found but at least the backup plan could still work.

“Have you finished?” Berlin then asked her. Not waiting for an answer he gestured for her to follow “Come with me, If you’d be so kind.”

Raquel saw the moment Rio noticed the message on the bug and sent him a glance as she passed, hoping the brief eye contact would make him think at least a bit about what he was going to do now.

After sitting through every proof of life one by one Raquel had had enough especially when they didn’t bring Allison down along with the others. Tokyo standing in front of her with a mocking smile.

“Hey, please, ladies, quiet down.” grinned Fonolosa “It’s a bit early to take the mud and bikinis out.” he mocked.

“Look, ever since I came in here, I’ve only heard you say stupid things.” Snapped Raquel, fed up. Tokyo and Rio grinned in amusement at her words making her feel confident enough to continue.

“I expected something more profound from a man who has only… How much ? Seven months to live?” she asked mockingly. Berlin’s smile slipped slightly and Raquel was able to see the man’s pupils widen slightly.

“What is she talking about?” Rio asked, expression turning shocked and surprisingly worried.
Andrès stared coldly down at Raquel, not answering.

“What the fuck is going on?” asked Tokyo warily.

“He suffers from helmers’ Myopathy.'' Raquel said “A very aggressive degenerative disease, with a life expectancy of 14 to 25 months.” As she continued she vaguely saw Berlin take a slight step away from her and close his eyes, head bowed. “His muscles may have already started to weaken, which translated into spasms, trembling of his hands...”

“Haven’t you noticed that it’s becoming more and more difficult to hold a gun?” Raquel continued. Surprisingly the first to react wasn’t Berlin, who was staring unseeing at the floor, but young Rio.

“Does the Professor know?” he asked Berlin. Raquel was even more surprised when the young boy’s voice broke slightly. On closer inspection she could see that both Tokyo and RIo had tears in their eyes, even though the younger woman was doing a better job at hiding it, both were clearly affected by the news. This was not the reaction Raquel had been expecting.

“Yes.” Raquel looked back at Berlin and was surprised to see him still staring unseeingly at the ground “He’s the only one I told.” admitted the man. Now that Raquel was looking at him she could recognise some symptoms of shock and felt a small surge of guilt that was quickly pushed aside when she remembered why they were here.

Raquel and the others watched in shocked silence as he left the room.

POV change.

Andrès despondently made his way back to the office he had commandeered. Having been so kindly reminded of his impending demise, he found that his only want was to speak to his brother. Sergio, who was always there to remind him that he needed his big brother. Sergio, who reminded him that Martin needed his husband.

Sitting down in his chair, Andrès let himself sink into the shiny leather and stared at the red phone before him. He wondered for a minute if scaring the hostages would make him feel better but very quickly dismissed the idea. He just wanted to be reminded that he wouldn’t die alone. That he had people on his side. People that wouldn’t judge him as he slowly turned weak and withered away. His image was already ruined by the detective and her team, tarnished by lies of actions he would never do. His team would now turn against him with the knowledge of his weakness. He really didn’t see why-

The phone ringing had him blinking in surprise and reaching over with shaking hands. He sneered as his fingers struggled to grasp the red plastic. He had barely picked up the phone when his brother’s voice filled the room.

“Andrès! Alison Parker, Second floor, Office 17, inside the safety box!” The phone went silent once more and Andrès was frozen for a few seconds before jumping to his feet, grabbing his gun from under the desk and striding out of the room with a snarl on his face. He didn’t know what was happening on his brother’s side but he could clearly understand from his message that Alison Parker had hidden in the safe Sergio had mentioned.

On his way to office 17 he passed a panicked Nairobi and ignored her as she tried to grab his attention. Slamming the door open he made short work of the safe and grinned nastily at the girl hiding inside. Grabbing her by the hair Berlin dragged her halfway out of the room before lifting her to her feet and jabbing the gun into the side harshly.

“That was a stupid move, girl.” he purred in her ear. Berlin ignored Nairobi’s wide eyes as he shoved the girl at her, gesturing for both of them to move it. They quickly did as told, Nairobi slipping the mask and hood on. Making her way towards the entrance hall Berlin let his mind wander again, trying to figure out what could be happening with Sergio.
He trusted his brother's judgement so he wasn’t worried, not for the plan anyway. He was worried for his brother on the other hand. The whole point of him not coming in was to keep him safe. Not that that was mentioned when the plan had been made. Both Martin and Andrès had agreed that the man was more useful outside the mint. They also agreed on the fact Sergio was too awkward in person to be on the inside.

Looking over at the girl being pulled down the hall, Berlin wondered what would have happened had he not been in his office when his brother called. Pushing the end of the gun into Alison Parker's back, Berlin had the pleasure of hearing her let out a hiss, no doubt she had gotten a bruise from his rough handling only a few moments ago.

Rio joined them and glanced warily at Berlin, something the older man noticed and decided to ignore. He didn’t want pity. Berlin let the two younger members drag the girl to the detective, leaning back against a nearby pillar. He had no intention of interacting with the detective anymore. Watching the others deal with her was enough for him and he found some amusement in seeing her reactions to Tokyo. He didn’t know what the young woman had told her but clearly she had made the detective wary of her.

Raquel Murillo. He’d make sure to drag her name through the mud once he was out of here. It was only fair after all.

Chapter Text

6. Meanwhile with the Professor.

“Sergio.” Martin started. “Why is the bug at our door?” he asked lightly, hands on the other man’s shoulders. Sergio rubbed at his eyes tiredly and took a deep breath.

“He must have followed me here from the bar.” Sergio theorized. He heard Martin scoff behind him and turned to glare at the man. Ever since the man had arrived (Earlier than planned, might he add), he had had to deal with multiple fits of rage. He wasn't in the mood to put up with his usual shit. Martin rolled his eyes and streched his arms above his head.

“My darling Salva.” he purred. “I’ll go deal with the annoying fly, hmm?” he asked. Sergio didn’t even have time to answer the man before he was walking towards the door in nothing but a very tight tank top and some boxers. “You’re lucky I made the place look lived in.” Martin called over his shoulder.

Sergio stared after him for a second before rushing to cover the phone and computer with a sheet. He looked around and nodded. It definitely didn’t look great but this would do the trick and at least looked slightly lived in. He’d have to thank Martin later.

Covering a few other things with sheets to not make the table stand out, Sergio tried to find a way he could make himself look relaxed.

POV Change

Angel stared in surprise as a man he didn’t recognise opened the door he had seen Salva enter a little moment ago. The man looked him up and down making Angel feel strangely embarrassed.

“Yes?” Asked the man impatiently. Angel swallowed uncomfortably.

“Uh. Is this… I’m looking for Salva?” he asked, shifting slightly to see if he could get a better look inside. His efforts were in vain as the mystery man leaned against the doorframe, hiding anything from view. Angel clenched his teeth slightly in frustration before noticing the leer that was being sent his way.

“And who are you exactly?” the brunette asked Angel. “You don’t look like Salva’s usual company,” he added.

“Angel. Angel Rubio.” he greeted holding his hand out, even though this man was making him uncomfortable it was only polite to offer. “And you?” he asked.

“Matías,” he answered, with an amused look, Angel didn’t miss the slight sneer Matias sent his hand. “Come in. I’ll go get Salva.” he said, turning away from him. “Close the door behind you, it gets drafty in this place.”called over his shoulder. Angel stared after the man for a second before stepping into the place warily. He didn’t understand who the man was as Raquel hadn’t mentioned Salva living with anyone and they looked nothing alike, making it unlikely that they were siblings. Angel had also noticed the lack of last name in “Matias’s” introduction, he had a bad feeling about this whole thing.

Closing the door as he was asked to do, Angel made his way into the hangar, looking around at the shelves of bottles. It all fit with what Salva had said to him but he still felt softing was off. Especially with the “Matias” guy.

“Salva!” He heard Matias call. “You have a guest. Angel Rubio?” he asked. Angel arrived at the opening in the shelves in time to see Salva look up from his place on the couch in surprise. The inspector had to admit he was surprised as well. He had met the man twice and never had he suspected that he was this … fit. Yet, Looking at Salva now, sitting in nothing but track pants and a tank top, there was no denying it.

“Inspector Rubio!” he greeted, getting to his feet and dumping the wet towel on the couch.

“You’re an inspector?” Martias asked, turning back towards Angel. “Salva didn’t tell me he knew an inspector! What else are you hiding from me? Hmm?” he asked, tone jokingly, putting an arm around the taller man’s shoulder. Angel shifted uncomfortably when Matias’s grin widened as Salva sent the man a wary look. Matias looked dangerous. That was the word that came to mind when Angel looked at him. Salva was suspicious. But this “Matias” was dangerous.

“I was just passing in the neighbourhood, and I thought I saw you coming in here.” Angel decided to jump in. “ I just wanted to stop by and try some of that cider you talked about.” he added with a slight smile “I hope-” he was interrupted by a snort. It was Matias.

“If that’s what you want, I can get you a glass!” he said, pulling away from Salva and making his way to one of the barrels. “I’m warning you in advance, Salva is shit at making cider. I don’t know why he chose this to start a business with.” laughed Matias.

Angel looked between the two men and was surprised when he saw that Salva only looked exasperated rather than offended. Angel also noted the fondness in the taller man’s eyes, a sinking feeling filling his stomach. He hoped he was reading this whole thing wrong.

“Here.” said Matias, handing him a glass. Angel took a sip and paused. It definitely wasn’t good. Matias laughed, taking the glass from him. “Told you. It’s shit.” he smirked over at Salva, who was now making his way over. Angel gave a forced laugh and was relieved when that seemed to be the right reaction.

“It’s not that bad. Bitter but not the worst I’ve had.” he reassured, gaining an amused look from Matias “One thing.” he started, not really knowing what would happen “How are things with Raquel?” Angel asked looking back at Salva. He saw the man’s steps falter and the sinking feeling intensified in his gut when he noticed Matias had frozen beside him.

“You are seeing each other aren’t you?” he asked.

“Uh, seeing each other, as such, not really,” he answered weakly after a while. “we are… I mean we talk sometimes.” Salva tried. “We’re having dinner tomorrow.” he added, looking over at Matias. Angel didn’t need to turn around to know the other man wasn’t smiling right now. There was an uncomfortable silence where Angel felt tension building in the room. His phone ringing had him jumping out of his skin.

“Excuse me.” he said, taking his phone out. “I’ll head out. It was nice meeting you, Matias.” he said, glancing over. “Salva.”

“Goodbye, Inspector.” answered Matias, not looking over. Salva just nodded his way, forced to smile in place.

When Angel closed the door behind him he let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding, only realising too late that he hadn’t gotten a print from Salva’s, too distracted by what had been happening between him and Matias. He had to tell Raquel.

But first he had to phone back Roberto.

POV Change

Martin grinned as he made his way to the door, checking himself in the glass nearby he was pleased to say he looked as amazing as usual. His eyes were drawn to his hair that looked just a little too neat and promptly messed it up a bit, that would do the trick. The slight sheen of sweat on his skin from a recent workout was the perfect finish to the look.

Opening the door he looked out and made a show of looking the bug up and down. The man stared at him in surprise and Martin rolled his eyes.

“Yes?” he asked, giving his best unimpressed look.

“Uh. Is this… I’m looking for Salva?” he asked; shifting uncomfortably. Martin, noticing that he was trying to look past his shoulder, made sure to lean on the doorframe with a slight leer.

“And who are you exactly?” Martin asked, lifting a brow and crossing his arms. “You don’t look like Salva’s usual company,” he said.

“Angel. Angel Rubio.” he greeted holding his hand out for a shake. “And you?” he asked.

“Matías,” he answered, looking down at the offered hand but not shaking it. “Come in. I’ll go get Salva.” Martin said, turning away from the larger man. “Close the door behind you, it gets drafty in this place.” he smirked over his shoulder. Not waiting for an answer, Martin made his way to the back where he found Sergio sitting on one of the couches towling his hair dry.

“Salva!” Martin called as he made his way over to the taller man. “You have a guest. Angel Rubio?” he asked in his best confused voice. Sergio glanced over Martin’s shoulder and sent a very convincing shocked look in the man’s direction.

“Inspector Rubio!” he greeted getting to his feet.

“You’re an inspector?” Martin asked, turning back towards the larger man. “Salva didn’t tell me he knew an inspector! What else are you hiding from me? Hmm?” he asked jokingly, putting an arm around Sergio’s shoulder. Martin’s grinned when Sergio didn’t flinch away from his touch and just gave him a wary look. Seemed like Andrès wasn’t lying when he said his brother was getting used to their antics. He also noticed how the Inspector was following the movement with wide eyes and let his grin widen.

“I was just passing in the neighbourhood, and I thought I saw you coming in here.” the inspector said suddenly, “ I just wanted to stop by and try some of that cider you talked about.” he added with a slight smile “I hope-” Martin snorted at the weak excuse.

“If that’s what you want, I can get you a glass!” he said, pulling away from Sergio. “I’m warning you in advance, Salva is shit at making cider. I don’t know why he chose this to start a business with.” he laughed, playing along with Sergio’s lie.

“Here.” Martin said, handing the bug a glass. Matias laughed when the man grimaced slightly at the taste, taking the glass from him. “Told you. It’s shit.” he smirked over at Sergio, who was now making his way over. Rubio gave a forced laugh, looking rather uncomfortable.

“It’s not that bad. Bitter but not the worst I’ve had.” he said, amusing Martin with his poor lying skills. One would think an inspector would know how to lie correctly, being faced with so many. He had clearly seen something suspicious is “Salva” after all.

“One thing.” said Rubio “How are things with Raquel?” Martin took his last observation back. The man was just jealous. Making a split second decision Martin froze and clenched his teeth until the inspector turned fully towards Sergio. He grinned at the confused look he was sent.

“You are seeing each other aren’t you?” asked Rubio. Martin put a hand on his chest and gave Sergio a dramatic look of betrayal, he was disappointed when the man didn’t react. Trying something else Martin pointed at him and then himself before making a crude gesture and pointing at Rubio.

“Uh, seeing each other, as such, not really,” he answered weakly looking at Rubio, clearly not getting what Martin was telling him. “we are… I mean we talk sometimes.” Sergio tried. “We’re having dinner tomorrow,” he added, looking back at Martin. Marin gave him an unimpressed look and crossed his arms. A phone ringing had all three of them jumping.

“Excuse me.” said the Inspector, taking his phone out. “I’ll head out. It was nice meeting you, Matias.” he added. “Salva.”

“Goodbye, Inspector.” answered Martin, not looking over. Sergio just nodded, a ridiculous smile on his face. When the door closed Martin gave a loud sigh.

“What?” asked Sergio, crossing his arms.

“You really are dense sometimes, Hermano.” he bemoaned. “The inspector thinks we’re sleeping together. I just played along.” Martin explained walking over. “That’s why he stopped asking about Raquel so quickly.” Sergio stared down at him for a second before looking incredulously over at the door. Martin grinned, he wondered how the Inspector would react to that little piece of information. "It's only fair that I break her heart after what she did to Andrès, don't you agree." shrugged Martin.

Sergio clenched his teeth and gave Martin his best glare.

"This is why you and Andrès can't be in a heist together." he gritted out. Martin sent him a dark look, still pissed about how Sergio had tried to make Andrès leave him behind.

"You were angry as well. What happened to the flirty 'Professor'!?" Martin mocked, he had seen how out of character Sergio had been. "Don't pretend you weren't pissed at the bitch." They stared at each other angrily before Sergio just removed his glasses and rubbed his eyes.

"No point in fighting over it." he sighed. "Let's get back to planning. We'll probably have to set up a decoy hangar for her anyway now that Rubio found this place." he pointed out. Martin sighed and took out his phone.

"I'm on it. You deal with the trail."

Chapter Text

7. Nairobi (Tokyo, Denver and Rio)

Nairobi watched Berlin warily as he looked out the window. She felt like she had missed an important piece of information, if the way Tokyo and Rio were acting was anything to go by. Both had spent the past few minutes alternating between giving each other pointed looks and glincing in the older man’s direction.

“Berlin.” It was Tokyo who broke the silence. Nairobi blinked in surprise at the soft tone she used. Usually very vocal with her dislike of the appointed leader, Tokyo was definitely acting out of character. Berlin wasn’t much better as he turned slowly and with a serious expression made his way toward the table, hands coming to rest on the back of one of the chairs.

“I want to apologise for not being entirely honest with you.” he started not looking at them. “The detective was right.” He clenched his teeth visibly. Nairobi once again wondered what she had missed. As she had clearly understood tha the news was lying about Berlin’s supposed human trafficking so what-

“I have a degenerative disease,” he admitted. Nairobi froze and turned towards Denver in time to share a heavy look before he looked down. “A real shit one.” he added, voice slightly deeper. “And I’m living on borrowed time, but…” Berlin licked his lips and went to grab a few glasses from the nearby press as well as a bottle of vodka.

“It’s not my intention to make you sad,” he continued calmly. Nairobi starred in shocked silence as the man gave a small sad smile when he turned away. She also noticed that his hands were trembling slightly, something she would have missed if she had been only looking at his face. “And let alone make you feel sorry for me.” here he grinned and looked back at them, seemingly at ease with his situation.

“After all. It’s a disease only one in 100,000 people suffer.” Berlin explained placing the glaces down. Nairobi couldn’t really believe what she was hearing and ended up just staring at him when he tried to turn it into a joke, grinning at her. She saw his smile slip as he poured the drinks. “And that makes me a very special person.” he finished, tone slightly dull.

When the glasses were all filled he stared down at them for a moment before clenching his jaw and picking one up, fiddling with it. Something Nairobi now realised he did whenever he had a glass in hand.

“We’ll all die” he said, as if to himself as he looked into the clear liquid. Nairobi exchanged an uncomfortable look with Denver.

“Cheers to that” continued Berlin, smiling slightly. Nairobi felt her eyes get slightly wet as she saw his hand tremble and his eyes gain a slight sheen.

“Because we’re alive” he grinned, looking up “and because the plan is going smoothly!” he exclaimed. All traces of sadness evaporating. His grin was infectious and Nairobi watched as Denver, Rio and Tokyo grinned with him, glad the mood was lifting. Contrary to them Nairobi was having more trouble finding any joy in the situation. She may not like Berlin all that much but she didn’t want him to die either. Especially not if it meant the Professor would be devastated.

“To life.” Berlin suddenly added. And Nairobi noticed he was staring pointedly at her. The other drank their shot and she let herself do the same now that the message was slightly more positive. “And to the plan.” she heard Berlin add quietly. This had her wondering once more what he had to do with the making of the plan. It was very possible that the Professor and Berlin had worked together on the whole thing. This made her realise something else important.

“Does the Professor know, Berlin?” she asked softly. The man gave her a curious look and then looked over at Tokyo and Rio.

“Yes,” he answered, head tilted. “Why did you ask me that? Those two asked me as well.” he gestured to Tokyo and Rio. Nairobi froze, not wanting to admit they knew he and the Professor “knew” each other. Surprisingly it was Denver who saved her.

“Well, it’s important information!” he said, frowning, seemingly not picking up on how dangerous the subject was. “And you always say we need to follow the plan...the Professor made you the leader for the heist, it makes sense you would have told him.” he finished calmly. They all stared at him in stunned silence. Berlin grinned at him and held up his shot to the young man.

“The Professor did indeed take it into account.” he grinned, downing the shot. The others let out the breath they had been holding, earning a confused glance from Denver. Berlin just gave them another curious look before pouring himself another shot. Nairobi watched as he pulled out the chair he had been leaning on,flipped it around and stradeled it so his arms could rest crossed over the back. He bit his index finger as he looked them over.

"How did you figure out I was close to the Professor?" He asked. His tone was curious but that didn't stop them from freezing and giving him wide eyed looks.

"What?" He mocked, grinning."Did you think you were discreet with your little staring sessions?" He asked, turning towards Tokyo.

"Maybe you should learn to close doors before deciding to sing with the Professor, hmm?" She jabed back, frowning deeply. Clearly she didn't appreciate being called out. Berlin lifted a mocking brow "I didn't need to see the two of you acting all mushy. And we really didn't need to see you shirtless in the professor's office either." She added.

There was a tense pause where Berlin looked slightly confused before his eyes widened in understanding. Nairobi stared as he grinned instead of being embarrassed.

“Enjoy the show?” he asked with a leer. Tokyo snorted and took a drag from her cigarette.

“We certainly saw a side of you we had never seen before.” the woman mocked “Is the professor really strong enough to pin you to his desk? Or are you just that easy to hold down?” she asked. Berlin surprisingly didn’t get offended or flustered by the question, lifting a brow at Tokyo.

“Want to give it a try?” he leered, opening his arms in invitation. Tokyo made an exaggerated motion of being sick and Nairobi was once more surprised when all Berlin did was grin in response. “Mi esposo wouldn’t let you anyway.” he winked. “You should check on the hostages and the .” he continued as if he hadn’t just dropped a huge bomb on them. And I need to have a little chat with Alison Parker.”

Nairobi looked to the side and saw Denver’s jaw hanging in shock along with Rio’s. Tokyo had both brows lifted and a bemused smile on her lips. She gave Nairobi a look before grinning incredulously and gesturing to the bottle on the table. Once she passed it over Tokyo poured herself and the others a second shot under Berlin’s amused watch.

“I’m coming with you.” said Nairobi after a short pause. Berlin nodded her way and she wondered if he had been hoping she would say that.

“Come meet me in the office when you have Miss Parker with you.” He ordered, calmly getting to his feet. “It was purely by chance that I was close to the phone when the Professor called. We can’t let something like that ruin the plan. From now on I want someone beside the phone 24/7.” Berlin finished. Nairobi and the others nodded in agreement, surprised when Berlin gave them a slight smile before leaving with a nod of his own, the door clicking softly behind him and leaving the room in silence.

“Oh my god.” Nairobi laughed incredulously. “Did Berlin say husband?!”.

Chapter Text

8. Alison Parker, Mercedes Colmenar, Nairobi

Berlin watched from his laid back position as Alison was brought in along with her teacher. Mercedes, if he remembered correctly. He was pleasantly surprised when Nairobi nodded his way before stepping around the desk so she was standing to his right. Lacing his finger together, Berlin leaned forwards, not letting his face show any of the irritation he was feeling. From where he was he could clearly see the girl’s teacher was sending worried looks her way without taking her eyes off him for too long. The girl, Alison, on the other hand, was getting on his nerves with her disrespectful glaring.

“Miss Colmenar, or Mercedes, can I call you that?” he asked, nodding when she agreed quickly “I’ve called you here to see what is to be done about your student here.” Berlin continued turning his attention back to Alison. “She ran away during the detective's visit and tried to hide inside a safe.” he explained staring straight at the girl “You can see how that’s a problem, yes?” he asked, turning back to the teacher.

“I-I’m sure Alison was just scared.” tried Mercedes shakily, turning to her student “Right, Alison?”

“I already know the girl is weak.” Berlin cut in. There was a tense silence. “Luckily for her, that’s how I know she didn’t come up with that little plan,” he added. Alison; who had been staring down at the ground up until now, looked up with wide eyes. “You see. I just want Alison here to tell me exactly who told her that what she did was a good idea.” When the girl didn’t answer and just glared at him stubbornly, Berlin leaned back in his chair with a sigh.

Getting to his feet he smirked as the action made both hostages flinch. Walking around the desk, he picked up the red folder that had been prepared specifically for a situation like this. Rather than going back to his side of the desk the short way, Berlin made sure to pass uncomfortably close behind Alison. He caught Nairobi’s warning glare and lifted his hands innocently, continuing on his way.

“I’m not scared of you.” Berlin froze in his steps. “You’re not going to hurt me. You know why?” she asked. Berlin lifted a brow curiously, knowing she couldn’t see it. But Nairobi standing before him was staring wide eyed between his very calm expression and the girl’s most likely determined visage. “Because I’m not just a hostage. I’m you safe passage out of here.”

Berlin turned around with a grin, taking pleasure in the way her expression turned wary at his unexpected reaction. Leaning his hip on the desk, Berlin took out one of the photos from the folder.

“Let’s see.” He started, “Your Aunt Becky, volunteer in a small village in Mali.” He placed the picture calmly before her. “Here, we have your cousin Elsi, looking very beautiful in Kings college.” Berlin complimented. Alison glared up at him but he could see her hands clenched painfully on the edges of her chair.

“Brian, the brainy one in the family, in Wellington.” he grinned. “And here, we have several photos. Whose? You ask?” He held up the paper so she could see better,“You sister Lis, just next to you in la Moraleja. The same school that you go to.” He looked her over and leaned forwards,“However, I don’t think she has the same temper as you.” he whispered loudly. Alison stared down at the desk, disappointing him with her lack of reaction.

“A girl like you probably doesn’t know the price of a hitman.” Berlin thought aloud “Do you?” He asked curiously. No answer, really, he thought she would be more interesting, especially with her little outburst earlier. “We can find a decent one for 30 000 euros-however, to shoot your aunt in Africa, 10 000 I'd say.” He finished placing the folder down. Going back to his chair, Berlin took back his previous position and gave the girl an expectant look.

Alison pursed her lips and looked down at the pictures now in front of her. Berlin could see she was trying to put on a brave front but the terrified look Mercedes had on her face ruined the image and he struggled to hold back an amused grin.

“Your family’s lives are in your hands,” he added. “Just tell me who told you to do what you did and we won’t hurt them.” Berlin reassured her. The girl swallowed before looking to her teacher, clearly asking for help with her eyes. Mercedes instantly nodded at the girl, clearly wanting the girl to just tell him so she would be safe along with her family. A very motherly move. They would have to keep an eye on her in case she decided to do something stupid to save her students.

“It was Arturo Roman.” she said at last. Berlin closed his eyes and leant back in his chair raising a hand to his rub at the bridge of his nose.

“Nairobi-” he was cut off by the phone ringing. All those present looked down in surprise and Berlin quickly picked up.

“Call to monitor, Berlin.” he hears his brother say “Everything is well here, and in there?”

“Arturo Roman is causing problems.” answered Berlin. “Do we isolate him or do we kill him?” he asked with a grin, knowing it would rile Sergio up.

“Berlin.” snapped Sergio.

“Sorry, sorry.” he placated, not sincere in the least.

“Keep an eye on him but don’t hurt him. Make sure everyone is on high alert as well, in case any of the other hostages decide to try something.” ordered Sergio “You’ll get a phone call from Palermo this evening while I’m out, he’ll be taking over while I deal with the detective.” explained the man, exasperated. Berlin grinned widely at the news, leaning back in his chair.

“Of course,” he agreed. “And how is my lovely esposo doing?” he asked. Looking up, he noticed the others were still there and motioned for Nairobi to lead them out. They did so quickly, Nairobi closing the door behind them with an incredulous look his way. Berlin lifted a brow, he didn’t care if they knew he had a husband; it wasn’t as if they would ever find anything on Martin anyway. Sergio and Andrès had been very carefull about making their

“He made the detective’s friend think we’re together.” answered Sergio promptly “You told me he would behave!” Berlin laughed as he imagined his brother's sulking form.

“And you believed that? Let him have his fun, Professor.” he smiled “He’s a free spirit, you can’t just ask him to stop being himself.” Sergio huffed on the other end of the line.

“I can when it puts a wrench in the plan! I had to come up with a whole new story for when the detective inevitably asks to check out the hangar.” he snaps. Berlin rolled his eyes at his brother’s dramatics. “And do not roll your eyes at me Berlin!”

“Tell him I’m impatient to hear his voice.” he grinned just as the man hung up. It was nice to hear that both men were safe. He had to applaud Martin for his trick though. With the idea that Salva was gay, or at least bi and in a relationship, planted in the detectives head, it was unlikely for her to want to sleep with his brother, something he had been wary about after what she had done to his reputation. He was glad his husband was, be it knowingly or not, pushing the detective away from Sergio.

He knew he was going against the rule of letting personal matters interfere with the heist. But if he had to pick between the heist and his brother… he’d pick his brother.

Chapter Text

9. Martin and Sergio are listening.

Martin huffed as he climbed out of the tunnel, it wasn’t exactly his idea of a good time but he and Sergio agreed that it was better to be safe than sorry. When Martin had first heard of the tunnel he had been impressed with Sergio’s planning, but he had felt the need to contradict the man when it seemed he didn’t take into account the idea that something would go wrong with the plan and shorten the amount of time they needed for those inside the mint to dig their way out.

“I have to relieve you from the case, I’m sorry.” Martin perked up in interest. He looked over at Sergio and saw the man staring intently at the speaker from his chair. “I think all of this will be clarified, but right now, I can’t trust you.” Murilo said.

“You can’t trust me.” repeated the bug quietly. “The thing is, that only you and I knew about Toledo, Raquel.” he snapped, voice rising.“You and I.” he pressed. Martin whistled, the bug either had balls of steel or a brain the size of a pea, trying to turn the situation around was not the right way to go. He rolled his eyes as Sergio shushed him.

“What the heck are you talking about?” asked the detective tensely.

“I’m not the betrayer.” the bug stated “So it’s only down to you.”

“They knew we were entering the museum wearing masks at the same time you knew it, and they knew we were going to the wreck yard,and they knew about the fucking pharmacy.” she listed off angrily.

“Yes, it can’t be anything else, huh?” he asked, voice rising again.

“What thing!? Tell me!” The detective cut in sharply, clearly not believing him.

“Who knows?! A phone call. A telephone, a fucking microphone?! Anything!” The bug suggested desperately. Sergio and Martin exchanged a smug look at the last one, if only they knew.

“Only you and I knew about the pharmacy.”

“And you didn’t tell anyone, did you? No?” Sergio swiveled slowly in his chair, listening intently. “Not even the weird guy from the café?” Martin snorted, ignoring the glare sent his way. “Did you say anything to him?”

“What?” the detective asked incredulously.

“To him-your shoulder to cry on!” The man continued angrily. “A guy showed up here yesterday and you tell him about your whole life! As if you were new to this!?” he continues “And you don’t suspect him! He’s been inside here, Raquel, he’s been inside the tent. Have you checked him out? Because I have. Have you done your bloody job?” Martin exchanged a wary look with Sergio as he leaned against the desk. This was going into dangerous territory very fast. Martin had only expected the bug to tell her about the possibility Salva was two timing her, not the possibility he was working for or with the robbers.

“He has a workshop nearby. He says he makes cider. He has things covered in sheets, who knows what’s under there?-”

“Don’t tell me you’ve been following him.” She hissed.

“Yes, I’ve been following him!” he shouted angrily “He makes rubbish cider with who knows what industrial shit!” “The place is a fucking mess! There’s barely any furniture and he sleeps in a bunk bed, surrounded by old tires and a wrecked car that he’strying to pass off as a fucking decoration!” Martin put a hand to his chest in mock offense, earning an amused look from Sergio. He had done a wonderful job on the place, thank you very much. “And you want to know the worst?” he asks aggravatedly.

“I don’t think he sleeps in it alone.” he spat. There was a shocked silence and Martin couldn’t help the snort that escaped him. He really wished they had put a camera in those glasses, just to see the look on her face.

“He’s dodgy, Raquel, he is. He doesn’t live alone, did he tell you that? And the guy he lives with is fucking dangerous!” Martin grinned, he liked the sound of that.

“Hear that, cariño? I’m dangerous.” he purred, gesturing to himself. Sergio pouted up at him angrily. “What? I’m not the one who said you were dodgy.” Martin grinned. Both men looked back at the speaker as the bug’s voice rose again.

“And you suspect me! I’m the only suspect!” he shouted “Me, me, me!”

“He’s losing his mind.” Martin stage whispered in the following silence. This heist was more fun than he expected, not that Sergio agreed with him if his warning look was anything to go by.

“How much will they pay you?” Martin and Sergio raised both eyebrows as they heard this.“one million? Two?”

There was another silence, this one heavier than the last.

“Look here Raquel. Listen carefully.” muttered the bug. “Fuck off.” Martin winced in fake pain, grin still in place.

“Suarèz!” they heard Murillo call from further away.

“I can’t believe this!” snarled the bug, smashing something. Sergio jumped slightly and Martin didn’t even try to hide his smirk at the reaction. Sergio really was too precious sometimes.

“Handcuff him.” snapped the woman. “Handcuff him and Take him away!” she ordered sharply.

“Calm down inspector. That’s not protocol.” They heard the new voice say calmly.

“Yes, yes it is, suarèz , handcuff me.” the bug huffed, clearly walking towards the officer.

“Fuck the protocol.” hissed Murilo from further away.

“Handcuff me.”

“Handcuff him and Take him away!”

“They’re like children.” huffed Martin, rolling his eyes.

“If you want I can call internal affairs, but for the moment, no one is going to handcuff no one.” explained Suarèz, clearly trying to diffuse the situation.

“Poor guy.” grinned Martin “Think he’d like some company tonight? To help decompress?” he asked, wiggling his eyebrows. Sergio huffed a laugh at the man’s antics.

“Don’t expect me to keep it a secret from Andrès when he comes back.” he said, easily ignoring Martin’s pout.

“Raquel.” started Rubio softly. “ I’ve been with you for 15 years.”

“With me?” scoffed the detective “No.” she hissed “You’ve been getting close to me to see if I fall for you. Always, ‘I’m leaving Mari Carmen. And your fucking womanizer jokes. And now, that at last, I say no to you, you turn into a traitor. A turncoat!” she snarls “What did you sell, Angel? Our friendship? This operation? Leave right now.” She finished coldly. Rubio didn’t answer and they soon heard his footsteps as he left the tent.

Martin watched as Sergio went to turn off the speaker and grabbed the man’s hand, shaking his head.

“We should keep an ear peeled just in case,” he pointed out “You’re the one that always says we need to think of everything. No turning off the speaker because you feel bad!” Martin scolded, getting to his feet. Sergio sent him a surprised look before leaning back in his chair with a sigh.

“I suppose you’re right.” he admitted. Martin grinned, pleased that the man agreed with him. “Wipe that grin off your face, I still haven't forgotten you’ve put me in a really bad position for the ‘date’ I am supposed to be having with Murilo this evening.” Sergio stated. The smaller man shrugged and ran a hand through his dirt filled hair, grimacing at the texture. “If things go bad I’m throwing you under the bus, Martin.” warned Sergio.

“Sure.” waved Martin uncaringly “Just make sure you say I’m great in bed, hmm?” he wiggled his eyebrows. “I mean,” he continued, “who could say no to this?” Martin asked, gesturing to himself proudly. Sergio gave him an unimpressed look.

“Me.” he answered flatly. Martin gasped, grasping his chest. “Now stop being a dramatic shit and clean up before you go touching the phone ... or anything else really, I don’t want your dirty hands making a mess.”

“I don’t see you digging!” huffed Martin, “Maybe if I did, I'd be more open to making an effort at keeping things clean for your little sensibilities, cariño.” he finished mockingly, a shower sounded nice, but now he didn’t want to take one, if only to spite the bearded man some more.

Chapter Text

10. Raquel and Salva/Sergio

Raquel watched Salva as he entered the bar. He looked as impeccable as usual. But something was different. He noticed her almost instantly and she was slightly surprised when the man didn’t even pretend to be happy about being here. She now wished she had chosen something less revealing for their “date”, feeling like the dress was now just another proof of how naive she had been in believing he was actually interested in her.

Salva sat down before her and she gave him a tense smile that he returned just as stiff.

“Raquel…” he trailed off.

“So what Angel said was true?” she asked, skipping pleasantries. Salva gave an awkward laugh. She had seen this before in people with a guilty conscience and her heart sank.

“Depends on what he said?” he tried jokingly. Raquel glared at him and he sighed leaning back in the booth. “Look, I don’t know what Inspector Rubio said but-” Raquel didn't let him finish, already done with his clear stalling.

“Are you living with another man?” she asked. Salva winced at the dry cut question and she watched him wring his hands in his lap. “Yes or no, Salva.” Raquel snapped, “It’s that simple.”

“Yes.” he said “But we’re not together!” He added quickly at her sneer, Salva raised his hands and made a frantic calming motion with them that would have been funny if they had not been directed at her. “He’s just a friend!”

“Just a friend??” she asked incredulously, conscious she had to keep her voice down so as to not attract unwanted attention. “You’re telling me, you, a man in your 40s, are living with another man in some hangar and you’re not together!? Don’t make me laugh.” Raquel continued “This is what?” she asked, gesturing from herself to him “Some kind of sick game? Can I get the detective to sleep with me? Is she desperate enough for affection that she would sleep with a man so clearly uninterested in her? Hmm? Tell me!”

Salva stared at her in shock as she got her breath back under control. Raquel felt strangely proud of herself for making the man silent. He swallowed visibly and seemed about to answer her when he instead chose to take out his phone and typing something into it quickly. Confused by what Salva was doing, Raquel didn’t even think to interrupt him, much less when he then turned the phone towards her, showing that he had been writing in his notes.

‘Raquel, I’m really sorry you had to find out like this, I never meant to hurt you, you have to understand I’m just looking for; some reprieve... a way out, I felt like you would understand what I was going through. I apologise if I gave you mixed messages about what I wanted with you.’ Raquel frowned down at the message, was this a trick? Was he really insinuating he was in an abusive relationship? He knew about her story, it was possible he was using this as a ploy. Grabbing the phone from his hands she quickly wrote a response underneath.

‘I’m angry at you for stringing me along. This is a serious accusation against your partner. If you need help I need you to tell me clearly.’ She clenched her teeth, still angry at Salva for the lies but now also worried for his safety. Turning the phone back towards him she watched the man’s shoulders relax slightly and when he looked up she was surprised by the wet sheen she saw there.

POV change

When Sergio first came into the bar he didn’t know what his plan of action would be yet. Raquel had already proven herself to be more ruthless than he expected so he knew improvisation would be important this evening.

As he sat down before the detective he quickly read the room and guessed the best approach would be the shit liar approach. If he could convince her that what he was hiding was his homosexsuality he could probably get away with this whole thing relatively unscathed.

“Raquel…” he trailed off. From the expression on her face this was indeed what she had expected him to do.

“So what Angel said was true?” she asked sharply. Sergio gave a forced laugh, hoping it was convincing.

“Depends on what he said?” he answered with a humorous tone. Raquel glared at him and he sighed leaning back in the booth. “Look, I don’t know what Inspector Rubio said but-”

“Are you living with another man?” she asked. Sergio fake winced and played with his hands in the universal sign of discomfort. “Yes or no, Salva.” Raquel snapped, “It’s that simple.”

“Yes.” he said “But we’re not together!” He added quickly, this was where he had to play up the whole panicked denial, he raised his hands and made a frantic calming motion with them. “He’s just a friend!” Sergio snorted at the cliche line.

“Just a friend??” she asked, tone rising slightly, he saw her glance around and calmed slightly at the fact she didn’t want to cause a scene. “You’re telling me, you, a man in your 40s, are living with another man in some hangar and you’re not together!? Don’t make me laugh.” Raquel continued “This is what?” she asked, gesturing between them “Some kind of sick game? Can I get the detective to sleep with me? Is she desperate enough for affection that she would sleep with a man so clearly uninterested in her? Hmm? Tell me!”

Sergio stared at the woman, not knowing how to respond to these accusations. Clearly the detective was angrier than he thought she would be and he had to quickly find a way to de-escalate the situation. Thinking back on everything she just said, it was clear she thought he had been messing with her and was not someone who would be afraid of coming out, so he now had to find another reason for not admitting to having a lover. He also knew about the detective's abusive relationship, perhaps if he pretended ‘Matias’, was abusing him, Raquel would not push him away fully and he would still have access to information through her. This would also make it easier for him to show up at her house at strange hours with a valid excuse. Mind made up, Sergio clickly grabbed his phone and started writing down a message, playing up the aspect of not being able to talk about it because he was scared, would probably gain him more pity points. Turning the phone towards her he watched intently as her face went through multiple expressions. She grabbed it from his hands and hid a smirk. Now he only needed to warn Martin about this plan so that the man knew how to act in case she ever met him.

When she turned the phone back towards him he read over her message and felt his eyes burn with the strain of not blinking. He knew he had won her over when his watering eyes met hers.

Chapter Text

Martin sighed as he looked over the plans again,he had been keeping an ear open in case the bug did anything interesting but for the most part he just spent his time sulking in his car and muttering under his breath about Raquel. Something Martin did not want nor need to hear.

It had only been a little while since Sergio had left to meet up with the woman and Martin was already feeling bored out of his mind. He really wanted to phone Andrès right now but he knew they had to keep the schedule except in case of emergency. Watching the security tapes helped pass the time but there wasn’t much happening at the moment anyway.

“Hello, Raquel speaking, I can’t answer your phone call right now.” Martin looked up in surprise as he heard the bitch’s voice. “If it’s urgent, leave your message after the beep.” He snorted when he realised it was the woman’s voicemail. Seems Rubio finally called her.

“Raquel, it’s Angèl.” he started “Listen, I’m asking you to reconsider.”

“We got angry and I overdid it…” he paused. “But it isn’t the first time we’ve had a row, you and I, is it?” he asked.

“Look, I’m probably an asshole or whatever you want, but… I’m not the mole. I’m not the mole for fuck’s sake!” he breathed deeply into the phone, Martin scrunched up his nose in distaste.

“You’ll screw up my life, Raquel. You’ll screw up my life, damn it.” he grit out. “Call me.” he finished. As Martin turned back towards the security feeds, he wondered how many times the man would try to reach Murillo.

“Hello, Raquel speaking, I can’t answer your phone call right now.If it’s urgent, leave your message after the beep.” Martin chewed at the pen in his mouth, mostly ignoring the speaker now.

“Raquel.” he slurred “Why the heck you don’t pick up? Huh? After 15 years with you, beside you, like a fucking fool. And noth to get closer to you, no,no. Because of our friendship. Because of love, do you hear me? Because of love!” he choked out sadly. The sound of the car swerving had Martin lift a brow at the speaker with a smirk. Was it really going to be that easy to get rid of one of their problems?

“Listen, I’ve been very close to breaking up with everything, to ditching Mari Carmen for a bitch that not even Prieto would fuck. Do you hear me? Yes, you’re a bitch, a selfish and obsessive bitch! A fucking bitch! Fucking bitch! A cunt licker, a frigid, for fucking sake. A fucking frigid!” he shouted. Martin snorted and leaned back in his chair with a grin. This was slightly more entertaining than all the moping the bug had been doing for the past hour.

“Raquel, it’s me, Angel, again. I’m sorry, I didn’t… I didn’t want to call you “bitch” really, I’m sorry.” the bug said “You’ll ruin my life.” He added softly “I don’t know what I’ll do if I’m dismissed from the police department. I don’t know how I’ll cope.” There was a pause “You’ll destroy me.” Martin heard the man take another gulp from his bottle followed closely by the sound of metal screeching on metal, the bug was losing control of his car. He leaned forwards expectantly, eyes riveted on the speaker.

The sound of his phone going off quickly got his attention and he turned the volume down on the speaker.

‘Murillo thinks you are salva’s lover’
‘You are abusive’
‘Play along if you meet her pls’
‘Delete messages’

Martin stared down at the phone for a second before snorting. So that’s what Sergio meant by throwing him under the bus. Two could play that game. He grinned, deleted the messages and pressed call. Sergio picked up almost instantly.

“Matia-”

“What’s taking you so long, Salva.” Martin snapped into the phone. “You said you wouldn’t be long. It’s been an hour, where the fuck are you?” he asked angrily.

“I’m- I” Martin stifled a laugh at the man’s stuttering “The place I tried going to was closed and I had to go to-”

“Are you kidding me?” he asked, tone incredulous. “I’m not some dumb shit who can’t figure out when his bitch is sleeping around, cariño.” he spat into the phone “You better be ready to apologize properly when you get here.”

“Wha- Matias, I didn’t-” Martin hung up and burst out laughing, now that was fun. The sound of the bug trying Raquel’s phone again had him rolling his eyes and turning the volume down even more. Nothing interesting to gain from the bug after all. Figures.

Martin turned back towards the computer and flicked through the feeds. He frowned as he noticed Helsinki leading Arturo Roman away from the others towards the vault rooms. He frowned even more when he noticed the young man watching their departure intently before sneaking out. With a bad feeling, Martin quickly went through the feeds and got the one in the boiler rooms, his heart froze as he noticed the men uncuffing themselves and Oslo making his way to their location alone. Martin grabbed the phone. When he heard Berlin’s voice he wanted to cry at not being able to greet him properly, but he had to be fast.

“The hostages in the boyler room are escaping, they’re probably going to try the loading room!” he shouted “Oslo is heading their way and has no idea, they’re armed with metal pipes and will most likely have Oslo’s gun by the time you get there.” There was a pause on the other end before he heard Berlin shouting orders. And the sound of retreating footsteps was heard.

“Any advice?” asked Berlin roughly. Martin swallowed and shook his head, knowing the man wouldn’t see but feeling the need to do it anyway.

“Don’t let them get out,” he said. Berlin laughed shortly and hung up.

Martin sat back and bit down hard on the pen from earlier until it snapped. He ignored the sharp plastic digging into his gums and watched in tense silence as the scene unfolded before his eyes. His heart went out for Helsinki when he saw the hostages take out Oslo and he clenched his jaw in anger.

The group made their way to the loading bay and Martin grinned evilly as he noticed Nairobi and Tokyo already waiting, guns drawn. Berlin stood further to the back and held the young man from earlier in his grip with a gun to his head. When the larger group arrived at their destination they froze at the guns waiting for them. Rio and Denver quickly arrived behind the men and it was over.

Berlin zeroed in on the one with the gun at his feet and quickly threw the younger man in his grasp to the ground before he approached the group. Martin couldn’t make out what was being said but he didn’t need to. It wasn’t often he saw his husband this angry. Grabbing Oslo’s killer he slammed the man onto the ground and pressed his boot onto his throat.

Tokyo glanced up at the cameras and gave a thumbs up. Martin gave a small relieved laugh and guessed she must think it was the professor who warned them. At least no one had gotten out. This could have been catastrophic for the heist.

Picking up his phone he dialed Sergio's number.

"Matias?" He heard the man ask warily.

"You need to get back here." Martin said "Right now." He added before hanging up. Looking back at the screen he clenched his teeth as Helsinki cried over his fallen brother.