3-bet QQ pre, mostly check the Ace-3-5 paired board, and on the river we should call the small stab with QQ instead of folding.
Flop comes 5s 3s Ac, no flush possible yet. We’ve got an overpair to the Ace, no draw, and our range is still ahead overall. On this semi-wet, Ace-high board, QQ is strong but not invincible, so checking back is the main line; if we do bet, a small 25–33% pot stab is preferred. The 4BB c-bet is a bit too big for this combo and this texture.
Note: C-betting QQ on A53ss is okay, but the 4BB sizing is a bit too big; checking back or using a smaller 25–33% pot bet is preferred.
Turn pairs the 3: 5s 3s Ac 3c. Flush still not possible. Our QQ is still an overpair, no draw, and CO now has a slight range edge. With SPR ~4 on a paired board, QQ is a solid but not premium hand, so checking back and taking the free card is a good mix. We avoid getting check-raised by Ax/sets/3x and keep the pot manageable.
River bricks: 5s 3s Ac 3c 5c. Flush now possible. We’re still on QQ, no draw, and CO has a small range edge. Facing 16.8BB into 40.3BB, we’re getting ~2.4:1 and need ~29% equity; QQ has ~44% vs CO’s range, so calling the small stab is the right play. Folding here is too tight and gives up a profitable bluff-catch.
Note: Folding QQ to the small river stab is too tight; with ~44% equity and needing only ~29%, we should call and take the bluff-catch.