Caray, Caray!

Dear Readers: Your Recapper has a new theory. What if Hortensia and Fluffy Cuenca were married long ago and never divorced? Or, at the very least, he had and fling with her. What if he was the father of Omar and Jaime? We never have heard a whole lot about Hortensia, her early life, the boys’ Papi….what if? Of course, neither of them would be able to marry again if they had actually been married, right? They both have strong personalities and it’s no stretch to think they might have fought and never seen each other again. It’s no stretch to think that when Santiago tries to talk to one about the other, they cut him off or deny remembering the other. They might have gone to school together, or at least been in the neighborhood together long ago….my new theory is that there is more than meets the eye in the Hortensia-Fluffy connection. My apologies if someone else has already come up with this and I missed it because I haven’t been reading in a timely fashion. But, I’m just saying….OTOH, I could be all wet and it wouldn’t be the first time. Jeanne (going off for a towel)

Santiago Arredondo, Fluffy Cuenca’s pegote (hanger-on/toady) eyes Ernesto, whom he has discovered in a restaurant with Ximena. Yesterday, Santiago told Ern that he’s Ern’s greatest admirer and never misses the cooking show. In today’s rehash he recapitulates—well, the person who really hooks him is that chica working with Ern, Lorena de la Cruz. Ern looks politely interested. Sure, right. Santiago babbles on that maybe Lore’s related to Fluffy’s girlfriend, Sara—last name’s the same. Santi’s never asked if she’s related but could be, huh? Ern’s ears perk up—you know Sara de la Cruz? Yep. Santiago’s been having trouble telling Toribio, Fluffy and Hortensia all the chisme—they all know him too well and shove him off. But Ern gets the scoop. She’s the girlfriend of Fluffy Cuenca. Ern confesses that he’s clueless and Santi is only too happy to fill him in—after he gives a backhanded insult or two about why Ern wouldn’t know Fluffy. Fluffy bought Hortensia’s banquet company and he needs a good chef. Ern should work for Fluffy here. Ern chuckles self-deprecatingly. He’s not exactly looking for work. But, Santi insists they need each other. Ximena decides it’s time to go and excuses herself with a little chuckle.

Santi seats himself in her vacant chair and notes that the mags say Ern’s always with the prettiest women and he just proved it. Ern makes an offhand remark and plunges into an interrogation about Sara. You say she’s in charge of this? Nope, Santi tells Ern, “YOU’RE going to be in charge, because I’m not letting you get away.” But…..Santi insists that Ern can’t say no. You can’t ignore the good things. Santi wants to let Fluffy know right away. Ern could be a little exasperated here.

Nurse Augie (Augusta Vayarino) always loves having a new patient, and she’s tickled to have Zulema as one at Hortensia’s call. Zulema looks not quite so sure. [Ed. Note: I’ve just realized who we have here. Nurse Augie is a new disguise for Mary Poppins. Augie brought firmness and joy into Hortensia’s life and soul, and she’s going to do the same for Zulema by resisting Omar and anyone else who would bother her patient. I’m just saying.] She’s brought flowers for her lovely Sra. and for her new patient. Both are tickled to have flowers. Everyone’s tickled here. They thank Augie, who says they’ll never have reason to complain and she’s so glad they thought of her. Lore gives Augie an inservice on the meds.

Julian’s gotten cleaned up and off the floor. Not in that order. He’s griping to Diana in the kitchen-why did they lie to Mama about Papa? Diana explains patiently to the little boy [oops, who said that? (looking over shoulder)] that they just didn’t see the value in telling Mama right now. Maybe when she’s stronger. Julian grudgingly acknowledges that if it’s for her health, he’ll play the game. Lorena joins them—pleased about having Nurse Augie who took such good care of Granny. Diana fills her in on the discussion she and Julian are having. Lore defends them—given the circumstances, it’s what we had to do. The girls face off, arms crossed. “So, how’s that hangover?” Successfully distracted from the other topic, he admits it’s better. Lore nails him—did he talk to Rossy? Julian wants her to drop it; he feels bad enough. He promised Mami he would change. Lorena wants him to put his money where his mouth is (hechos y no palabras - actions and not words). Diana chimes in – they want to trust him. Julian groans and slinks out. Call ya later, he tells his sisters, who give each other a look of irritation.

Bruno has found Fluffy and Sara in the living room and asks how Fluffy feels this morning. Fluffy doesn’t feel all that stellar, so Bruno gives him a quick pat-down. Looks like he has gas. Fluffy bolts up from the sofa-turned-examination-table. Fluffy gets Bruno down on the side where Sara isn’t and whispers—“gas? GAS? Fluffy Cuenca????” His look is pure disbelief. Gas wouldn’t DARE invade his delicate system. “Yep, gas. Flatulence.” Bruno gets a little grin that Fluffy doesn’t register. A few little pills will nip that in the bud. Fluffy wonders if Bruno can imagine what it would mean if Fluffy Cuenca let one fly?? Bruno and Sara hold themselves back from howling. [Ed. Note: your recapper, too. No, I take it back. I did howl. ]Bruno says he has a breakfast appointment. Sara wrinkles her nose and tries to hold back her mirth. Bruno wonders if Sara could go with him so he could send her back with the pills. Sara jumps up to go with Bruno, delighted. Fluffy puts his head in his hand.

Sara gets as far as the building lobby and peppers Bruto with questions. Why did he say he has to take her with him to the pharmacy? Does he REALLY have an appointment? Bruto has an idea for getting her that inheritance—is she still ready to do most anything? Yep. Bruto takes her by the arm and keeps her moving.

The Prodigal Esposo is finally home, but it’s his mother-in-law he meets first. Maruja sarcastically remarks that he’s finally shown up. She and Jaime stand up from the breakfast table. Maru tells Julian he’s disrespected everyone in the house, starting with Rossy. Julian acknowledges he knows it. He’s giving his word to never drink again. Even less to run away. Maru mutters that she hopes he follows through. Now it’s Jaime’s turn—with respect to work, Julian’s attitude has been very irresponsible. Julian’s inclined to agree with everything they’re saying—he deserves it, what more can he say? Nothing and they expect to see him make a real change, Jaime tells Julian. Julian agrees that he will, and Rossy slouches into the room, sighing, and notices Julian. She just stares at him with censure in her angry face, then looks away. Jaime and Maru bow out, leaving the lovebirds alone.

Julian tells Rossy he understands her anger. “You understand? What will we get with that?” Julian follows her and tries to embrace her, but Rossy walks away again and tells him no. A hug and a kiss won’t resolve a thing. He asks her forgiveness. Rossy tells him she is Fed Up. He’s gone over the top. Rossy isn’t yelling as usual—her voice has dropped about 15 dB below conversational and we know that means she reeeeeallly is past caring here. Rossy points out he lost several days, never thought in anyone except himself, and it didn’t even matter to him how she was feeling. Julian shrugs in apology—it was never his intention to make her suffer. No? It is never your intention but you somehow manage it. For Julian, Rossy doesn’t really exist. She’s the last one he thinks of. “Will Rossy care? Will she be totally annoyed? No, she always understands. Stupid Rossy understands everything.” Rossy cries in anger and frustration with this child-man she married. “Why be worried about her?” Julian tries again. He doesn’t know the right words to ask her to forgive him. To Rossy, no word is going to matter. She crosses her arms and turns away. Julian insists he won’t drink again and has no reasons now to behave like that. His Mami is out of the coma. Rossy faces him again and cries that they’re all happy about that, but what’s it going to take to cure her? Rossy is wounded, hurt. She tells him she’ll make up his suitcases and wants him to go. Julian tries to talk her out of it. She’s serious. He can come look for her when he grows up. Keeps trying to persuade her otherwise. Rossy tells him not to bother to show up at work; they never will miss him there. She strides off toward the bedrooms and leaves him sadly impactado.

Santiago is back to Fluffy’s building lobby, with his arms full of take-out breakfast and has dragged Ern to Fluffy’s with him, assuring Ern this is the best day of his life. He won’t regret coming to meet Fluffy. Ern hopes his visit won’t take Sr. Fluffy by surprise. No problem, Santi vows. Fluffy will be delighted, and by the way, since you’re here, we could make breakfast—right?? Ern looks doubtful.
Fluffy opens his own door. Santi thinks that’s weird—where’s Sara? Out to get some meds. Fluffy is not his usual picture of self-assurance and bubbly personality. Who’s this guy with you? Santi introduces the best chef in Mexico, Ernesto Mendiola. Fluffy greets Ern with a handshake, and Ern registers discomfort. Santi registers nothing, ever. He announces that Ern’s going to be Fluffy’s new chef at the gastronomy company. Fluffy and Ern eye each other warily.

Vasco has Patty converted, obviously, because she’s wearing a peace symbol tank top (sparkly, though) and giving Barb a lecture on the economies and ecologies of riding a bike for transport. Barb is mildly amused that she plans to travel to work this way. Patty calls her suegra and Barb chides Patty fondly not to call her that, but not to use “Ud.” and so Patty wins one and loses another. Patty agrees and tells her to cheer up—and Vasco can loan her his bike. Barb can’t believe Patty wants HER to ride to the office all dolled up in a lovely business suit as she is on a BICYCLE! She has strong legs but she’s not Wonder Woman. Vasco chimes in that he thinks he can’t imagine how she’d do it. Patty thinks she would, and age has nothing to do with it. They chitchat –Barb says Patty’s calling her old and Patty denies it—how can she think that, hablablablabla. Chuckles.

Fluffy, Santi and Ern sit and discuss the business idea—Fluffy thinks Santiago is right and Ern is the perfect guy for the chef job. Santiago predictably affirms Fluffy yet again. Fluffy wants to hear Ern’s opinion. Ern wants to hear the actual offer Fluffy is making. Fluffy spells it out. He wants to set up that enterprise again, Banquetes Armendáriz, and it’ll be #1 in the country. In fact, in of all America. Ern wants to know--before Santi found him, how did Fluffy plan to manage it? Fluffy shares a little secret with Ern—he bought the company for a dame—er, lady. To please her. It’s not his bag, but fortunately, Ern appeared. Santi chimes in another inanity about Sara. Fluffy continues that she studied gastronomy, hablablablabla and Ern is getting the picture. Santi adds that Fluffy’s been granting her whims, even to the point of buying a mansion. Ern manages to make all the right awed faces. Fluffy tells Santi to shut up, because this isn’t of interest to the gentleman. [Ed. Note: Wrong, it’s of paramount interest.] Ern looks a little uncomfortable, though, as Fluffy asks if he doesn’t want to see the place. Santi chimes in yet again—give the boy the bottom line, tell him the salary.

Speaking of the former Queen of Rome, the business lady of the new banquet company, aka Hortensia, pores over menus with Lore. Wow, Lore has them perfectly balanced. Lore is relieved and wonders if they’re ready to show to the clients. Hortensia wants to see if they can lower the costs first. Of course, and not compromise the quality. She gives Lorena an example. Since the group will be 500 people, isn’t it more effective to make a Vichyssoise than a walnut cream soup? Sure, Lore thinks it also won’t change color so easily or get bitter when it’s prepared ahead. Diana joins them. She wonders if Lorena has talked to Omar. No---and Lorena jumps up to call him. Hortensia tells Diana they’re making little menu modifications. Lore gets Omar and tells him she needs him to do her a little favor.

Regreta rummages through a bag while she walks down the street, and at the same time Ximena seems to be looking for a house or building or something, so they bump into each other. Here’s a big surprise, they know each other. They exchange surprised greetings. It’s been years! How have you been? Hablablablablabla. Greta calls Ximena an ungrateful wretch—how come she hasn’t called? Well, she’s never in Mexico due to her work. She tells Greta she restores art, and does museum work. She travels all over the world. Greta is awed, and says she was stupid and married, dropping her studies. Now she has no career and no hubby. [Ed. Note: not to put too fine a point on it, but she has a hubby. It’s just that he actually belongs to someone else.] Greta conveniently lives here, and invites Ximena in for coffee. Ximena conveniently was looking for an address where someone is selling a painting near by. She’s got time for coffee.

Julian tries to get sympathy from Mami—Rossy’s run him off. Zulema takes Rossy’s side, though. But Zulema thinks they can resolve it because they love each other. Really? Julian thinks he’s failed a whole lot here. Yeah, but that’s exactly why you have to prove to her you’ll change. He shrugs happily—he sees her and suddenly finds he has all the strength in the world to fight for what he wants. Zulema encourages him—she just has to give him little nudges once in a while. He pledges to be a good man for her and for his Rossy. They’re always his reasons (motor – motive or reason) for moving forward. Zulema launches into a full-scale pep talk. He’s a marvelous man, and how is he not going to succeed at anything he plans to do? They lean in to grasp each other’s hands and look lovingly into each other’s eyes, Julian much encouraged. Nurse Augie interrupts and Zulema introduces Julian. Augie has brought her consommé and when Zulema finishes, they’ll do her rehab exercises, which is fine with Zulema.

Lore works hard over the menu items. In the background is a sign for something organic, so they must be working with Vasco. Maru goes to check the dish Rossy is working on, and hesitatingly asks when Julian’s coming to work. Um, he’s not. Why??? We’re going to separate, Mama. Maru thinks that’s pretty drastic. Rossy can’t continue with him so immature. [Ed. Note: Takes one to know one, but at least Rossy has improved.] Since they’ve been married it’s been one deception after another. She’s told him not to come near her again until he’s behaving like a total man. Rossy is sad, and Maruja is impactada. [What, this is a SURPRISE to her?]

Greta’s idea of treating Ximena to coffee comes with strings attached—Ximena also gets treated to a demo of the total line of cosmetic creams Greta is selling. They chitchat about the creams—what, men buy them, too? Sure, they make the guys feel younger and livelier. She starts in on how Omar has fewer wrinkles and looks ten years younger. Ximena wants to know who Omar is. The guy who lives with Greta. She’s terrified he’s leaving her any minute. Why? Well, he’s married, for one. Ximena is mildly impactada and stays quiet. Greta tells Ximena in a nutshell about Zulema’s coma and unexpected recovery. She tells Ximena Omar has misgivings now, although ….something your recapper couldn’t catch (aúnque yo le ha dado lo que ella en su vida le ha dado – although I’ve given him something she had given him in life?? That’s what the captions said and she talked so fast it might have been “something she hadn’t given him in life” and the captions missed the no ha dado) Ximena remarks that she wouldn’t be worried [Ed. Note: obviously I missed something important. Maricruz, are you reading? Help!]. Greta says now that she’s out of the coma it’s worse than ever, and she can’t believe that Zulema came to. “Zulema?? Lorena’s mother?” “Yes. You know her??” No, but she knows very well who Zulema IS. She’s thrilled that Zulema is out of her coma, so there’s no real obstacle for Lore to go back with the doc. Greta begins to see the big picture—Ximena is dying for Ernesto. Yep. She’s been working months at being his great friend and confidante. [Ed. Note: Well, is anyone surprised by this confession? I thought not.] Ximena looks a bit smug. Months and months she was wanting him to kiss her! You know what? Ximena vows to Greta she’s not losing Ern now.

Ximena continues that she’s not giving up until she’s achieved her goal. She always says she has to have a cool head. Greta likes it. Of course, Ximena did always say that! Ximena notes that men like women who say yes, in the long run. Greta is getting an idea. She’s been foolish, too impulsive. Ximena tells her that’s a big mistake. You have to manipulate your men. [Ed. Note: Greta knew that lesson better in the beginning.] Find their weak points, and attack there! Ximena’s face shines with zeal. Greta’s face frowns in a mask of stupid. She knows that Ern’s weak point is his pride. She’s going to work her magic with a clever trick to make Lorena doubt Ernesto and he’ll get far away because he’ll tire of her. [Ed. Note: She has fewer than 13 episodes to pull it off, doesn’t she?] What’s Omar’s weak point? Guilt, Greta tells Ximena. He always feels guilty for what he does and what he doesn’t do, Greta says with irritation and disdain. Ximena urges her to attack there. Guilt is one of the strongest channels for every man! Greta gives her the “huh?” look.

Santi wants to know what Fluffy thinks about the Chef Mendiola thing? It was quite a find, huh? They’re drinking their breakfast, and Sara’s coming back with the gas pills. She gives Santiago a long look. He has the grace to be uncomfortable, which is rare for the old boy. Fluffy wants to know why she took so long. She gives him a lame excuse about them not having what they needed and she had to go to another branch of the pharmacy, and by the way, Sra. Menendez called me and says we can get into the house pronto. Great news, and I have my own good news for you. Oh? Santiago watches the back and forth like a tennis game. Yep, Fluffy tells Sara, I’ve contracted a first-class chef for the new company. We left it that he’ll be around this afternoon. Fluffy’s clearly pleased with himself, but Sara’s snippy. What does Fluffy know about Chefs? He should have consulted with her! Fluffy points out that Santiago found him and Santi isn’t too comfy with that. “You told me that I’M in charge of the business,” Sara fusses at him. Fluffy looks dumbfounded. She spouts that he should keep doing what he wants and she’s not going to be a decoration for him any more. Fluffy, obviously not used to this, tries to call her back and goes after her. “Kitten! Kitten!” Santi looks pretty dumbfounded, too. No one treats his buddy like that. He never dreamed he’d see the day when some woman would break up with Fluffy Cuenca, he tells the empty room.

Fluffy tries to get Sara to talk to him, meowing at her as he crawls on all fours across the king size bed. [Ed. Note: Hubby is sitting next to me laughing disdainfully at this guy about his age, crawling on the bed on all fours and meowing, calling him a caricature of a man—“Even I could tell he’s a jerk” –and hubby speaks not a lick of Spanish.] Fluffy barks at his Kitten. She scowls and looks away. [Your recapper is with Sara here, if only briefly.] He gives up and tells her not to be like that, when she hears who it is, she’ll be pleased. He thinks the chef is a good choice. “A good choice? To show me how little I mean to you?” Fluffy is taken aback. It’s not like he hasn’t taken her around the world and bought her lots of stuff already, is it? She accuses him of buying the company to manage it himself. No, that’s not true. Sara accuses him that she’s not worth anything to him. That’s a lie. She’s going to be in front in this company, even if it is in his name. He’s got great plans. Sara gives him her best wary, distrusting, P. O. U. T. Y. look. She’s going to be in charge of all the events in all of his hotels. She yells at him again. [Ed. Note: About now, I’d have the chick’s bag packed and her on the street with it.] That doesn’t resolve anything, and where does it leave me? Where? In the administration. He keeps attempting his persuasion with magic words; they’ll earn 20 million the first year, if they do it his way; he’s calculated it. Sara indignantly asserts that if she was ambitious, that might make her happy, but she’s not. She just wants to WORK and feel independent. [Independently wealthy with stuff in her name, right.] He backs off-okay, if she doesn’t want his help, fine, she can do what she wants. She’s not accepting that chef! Fluffy points out she needs to meet him and Fluffy’s made an appointment with him. Sara does a 145 (it’s not a 180 because it’s totally fake). Okay, she’ll do, for Fluffy. As always. He leans over and kisses her cheek, calls her kitten, and meows twice. Blech. Sara fumes.

Fluffy goes back for a stiff one (whiskey) and Santi wants to know the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. What’s up? Fluffy has bought into it all. Yep, she’s right, I treat her like she doesn’t exist, like an object. Santi scoffs—Fluffy shouldn’t let it bug him. Easy to say it, but Fluffy’s never seen her like this. [Stick around, pal, there’s much more where that came from.] He wants her to feel good and Santi points out if he’s caving in to all her whims and she still isn’t feeling good, then what? Santi thinks he should threaten to send her to the devil and see if she lays off him, but Fluffy thinks she might take him at his word and it’s better to let it be and he’s not going to give her any more advice. What? Fluffy’s going to let her go it alone? Santi decides that is a wise decision! But Fluffy needs his help; Santi can monitor, in case there’s an emergency. He’s a friend, right? Santi is impactado and wary, but smiles nervously at his pal.

Dra. Serrano meets with Alonslow in her office. They exchange greetings and work chitchat about some statistics she’s giving him, then get to the point. She wants him doing bariatric surgery again. He’s the only specialist in the area. Slow is dubious about the whole idea. Now that Zulema’s doing okay, other patients can benefit. He tells her he won’t lie to her—it would be a huge personal challenge to take that up again. But he agrees to do it and she’s pleased. She hands him the first file to review. Slow swallows and the clock of doom ticks.

Toribio’s in hog heaven; Paula knows how to get to his heart with a big dish of ice cream. She’s pleased to see him and wants to know how Slow is doing. Toribio fills her in—Slow is fine, very happy. Zulema woke up and then Alonslow woke up, too. Paula thinks that all that’s left is for him to go back with Lore and all will be well with the world. Toribio thinks they need to keep giving him a hand and Paula wants a plan. Toribio saw something on the internet—they could send up a little airplane with a banner that says “Lorena, I love you!” They could rent the time, can she imagine? Paula grins at the idea and claps. It is sooooo romantic (romantiquísima with about three “sisisimas”). How much? That’s the problem. Toribio’s face falls. It costs a bundle. Impossible. They sigh.

Alex is convinced that if his Uncle Ern keeps being such a slowpoke, Bettina’s uncle will get Lorena. Gina stops drawing at the table while she and Fanny listen to Alex thinking out loud. They have to think of something more impressive. But what? Gina thinks they should tell Uncle to act sick so Lorena will come and see him EVERY day. Alex, always thinking, tells her it won’t work. They see each other every day on the program and nothing happens. Gina thinks a little more. If they find out what Lorena likes most, they can buy it and make it look like it was from Ern. Does she have money? No, she gave up all her savings for the balloons. Alex spent his on the gifts for Doña Zulema. Fanny gives them an empathetic look. Gina says that Ivan doesn’t have any money, either. They both look at Fanny, who shrugs and tells them she doesn’t have any to contribute, either. Glum looks all around.

Speaking of the king of Rome, he’s into a pickup game of b-ball at the local park with his peeps. He sees Bettina and goes to the fence to greet her, taking the ball with him. Ivan asks if she’s mad with him and she retorts that she’s bored. What, she doesn’t want to be with him? They exchange a few fussy snarks and predictably they get into a “whose uncle will get the girl” discussion. Ivan accuses her of being piqued because he and his siblings want their uncle to get the girl. Bettina’s sorry, but she’s going to choose Slow. The buds call Ivan, and Bettina snipes one more time and stalks away, leaving Ivan frustrated.

Sara has returned to the scene of several crimes. In fact, there’s still one of those red folders for her to slap onto her old desk (or Jaime’s, or Arturo’s, depending on the era). She’s put out about having Fluffy stuck to her back. She wants to do it all and have the employees fear and respect her like they did with Hortensia. Fluffy finds her, bringing the new chef trailing along to meet her. Oops, it’s Ernesto. Sara gasps and whips around to face him. Ern looks warily over Fluffy’s shoulder at her. Sara gets a grip and smiles the best she can; Ern breaks into a knowing smile.

Ernesto Mendiola? Sara plays dumb. Fluffy knew she’d be surprised. [Little does he really know.] He told her she’d be delighted. Her fake sparkly smile hasn’t failed her yet. “Here you have one of the best chefs in the country.” Ern plays along—“mucho gusto, Sara. It’s going to be a pleasure to collaborate with you.” He shakes her hand, giving his very best earnest Ernesto look. Fluffy tells him to collaborate with her, because she’s in charge here. It’s her business. He sends them off to look at the facilities. Ern wants to know if Fluffy’s coming. Nope, Sara knows them better than he does. She tersely asks Ern “shall we go?” And they do, leaving a smug and clueless Fluffy smiling indulgently to himself.

Val comes to see if Slow can give her an opinion on some x-rays. She has a patient with sharp pains in the lumbar region. She notes his expression and asks if something’s happened. Slow fills her in on his chat with Dra. Serrano. She wants him to do bariatric surgery again and it’s giving him dread. Val congratulates him on regaining her trust. Val reminds him that the supposed error he made with Zulema had nothing to do with the surgery itself. He tries to argue and she cuts him off. [Ed. Note: this woman is SO much better for him than Lorena. He and Lorena bring out the worst in each other, and Val and he bring out the best in each other. I’m just saying.] Val points out she would have likely ordered the very same analyses as Slow did before Zulema’s surgery. Anyway, it’s OVER. Slow tells her he isn’t sure he can do it. The clock ticks as they exchange a serious look.

Ern has looked over the spacious and well-appointed kitchen of the former Armendáriz banquets building. He declares them very satisfactory and ready to go today. Sara snaps at him not to feign as if nothing’s going on here. According to her, what IS happening, he wants to know. What’s he doing here? Did Lorena send him to spy? She spits the words out with crossed arms. What, didn’t Sara’s …. Spouse explain to her? Ern was minding his own business having a cuppa in a restaurant and was accosted by Santi who practically broke his arm to take the chef job. [Okay, this is a very liberal translation here.] No one told him he was going to have to work with her. Okay, then why wasn’t he very surprised to see her? Well, he notes, he can dissimulate almost as well as she can. [More liberal translation here.] Or, maybe I should have told him I know her – I know everything ABOUT her? Sara screws up her face in fury and demands that he tell her at once why he’s here. Fluffy made him an offer he couldn’t refuse and he had to take advantage of it. Kind of like she’s taken advantage for herself here. And he’s delighted she’s been doing so well. Sara eyes him suspiciously.

Val is still giving Slow a pep talk mixed with advice. He needs to have confidence in himself, because if he doesn’t, yes, the patient is running a risk. He agrees. She tells him if he doesn’t feel confident he’d better tell the Dra. Between the two of them, he’s talked into it and she volunteers to assist. She’d do that? Sure, what are friends for? He’ll feel much better with her in the OR. She smiles and whips up the x-rays for them to review.

Sara tells Ern not to celebrate her good fortune. She brings up Lorena and Ern messes with her, working to convince her that Lorena doesn’t mean anything to him now. Sara knows her friend, right? She’s sickly-sweet, dull and uninteresting. He builds a case for why he’s over her. How long does Sara think Lorena would be pleasing to him? She suspiciously notes that Lorena spoke mighty well of him in the interview. Ern chuckles and looks away. Don’t tell me you believe that. Sara tells him she doesn’t believe him at all. That’s her problem. He laughs and tells her his philosophy that women are passing fancies for him. Lorena was simply one more on the list. Don’t think you’ve convinced me, Sara retorts, and tells him to get out. Okay, fine. I say goodbye and we haven’t lost a thing. He notes they’ll have to tell her hubby, though. Ern tells her she can invent what she wants. He’s no good at excuses. Sara asks him to swear he has nothing going with Lorena. He swears it. She tells him he’ll have to show her. Ern asks if that means she wants him to stay. Yes, and after thinking it over well, it’ll suit her to have a chef of such prestige. He grins widely. (It’s NOT the grin he gives Lorena. I’m just saying.) His grin fades to a slight frown.

Diana asks Julian about working on the sports program again—he hopes he’ll get to work there again. With a sigh, Zulema asks if Lore’s been able to get in touch with Omar. Lorena comes running in to Zulema’s room before they can respond. She’s got him on the webcam. “Omar, is it you? Not a recording?” He tells her it’s no recording. It’s him. He smiles for the camera and Zulema is ecstatic, smiling broadly in return. He tells her it’s a miracle to see her like this and she looks good. She responds in kind. When is he coming? He tells her when this work is done he’ll be there to see her. Zulema tells him she’s dying to hug him. She tells him she loves him and wants him close. He tells her he loves her, too. [Jerk!] Lorena gives Zulema a strange side glance. He calls her “gordita” and she delightedly tells him she’s not a chubbette any more. [Ed. Note: maybe not, however, the cords in her neck stand out lots.] He just has to see her, Zulema tells Omar. She’s as tiny as when they married! All three children are uncomfortable with this and Julian shakes his head in irritation.

Patty, Vasco and Hortensia hang in the living room. Patty extols Vasco’s virtues to Hortensia. The only thing she wants to do is make him happy. She strokes his cheek. Hortensia gives Patty a look of singular boredom and disdain—of which she is the master. “I see.” Patty babbles on—she’s got it, they can invite Hortensia to an organic picnic—she’ll love it! Vasco looks doubtful. Hortensia politely tells Patty she likes to eat at a table, seated in a chair—she’s old school. Patty finally picks up on the signals. Vasco asks if something’s up with Granny-she seems so serious. No, but Hortensia wants to talk to him about something now that he’s come to see his auntie. He tells her he’s all ears. She wants to talk ALONE. Patty is distinctly uncomfortable; Hortensia declares they can talk in her room and trots off. Vasco stays glued in his seat but Patty sends him off—she’ll wait for him. He trails Hortensia. Diana comes in and notices Patty—she greets Patty and asks if she has come to see Zulema? Patty affirms that she came with Vasco and points off toward Hortensia’s room. Diana offers her whatever. Patty assures Diana she’s fine, then turns back to wait, concern on her face.

Vasco wants to know what’s up with Granny. She tells him this chica Patty tries to be nice, but a little more and she’ll be stuck to him like a stamp. Vasco smiles a little at her sarcasm and notes how observant she is. Hortensia accuses him of not really being in love with Patty. “Why do you say that?” Vasco sits up and listens. “Didn’t you just say I’m really observant?” No smile this time. He protests that Patty cares about him. What can he say after Diana’s rejection? Granny points out that was her fault and Vasco protests that Diana never really loved him that much. She loved Bruto. Hort defends Diana-she has a child with Bruto, try to understand her. He continues to protest—he was always understanding to the point that he finally got tired of it and of begging her. Ultimately, Patty is the reality.

Lorena is surprised to see Patty. Patty cheerfully tells Lore she came with Vasco to see Zulema. Lore wants to know why she didn’t just go in. Zulema’s just gone to sleep. Diana worries about Zulema sleeping, it makes her nervous, but Patty tries to reassure Diana. All the bad time is passed. [Ed. Note: Has anyone noticed that Lore is wearing suits nowadays? What’s up with that? Did she go on the “What Not to Wear” program with Stacy and Clinton?] Lorena says she won’t move from Zulema’s side all night. Her phone rings and it’s Ernesto. He needs to talk to her urgently and immediately.

In the dark of night Fluffy brings Sara into the former Armendáriz big house. Does her new house please her? [New???? Hah.] Yes, much. Sara is still petulant, but I guess we can expect no less of her. Fluffy is all delighted at having gifted this to her. But he notes her pout and tells her that her face says something else. She denies it but he points out he knows her, so what is it she doesn’t like THIS time? “Well, you know me well, and I can’t lie to you” she tells him. He tells her to get it out—tell him. “For all you’ve given me these material things, the empty place in my heart stays the same.” [Aw, pobrecita.] “Huh? I don’t understand, what empty place do you mean?” Fluffy is clueless. “You don’t love me.” He wonders where she’s gotten that from. This is the longest relationship he’s had. [That says it all, doesn’t it, gals? See my theory at the beginning of the recap.] That should mean something. “Relationship??” She protests that’s all she is for him, a simple relationship. Fluffy seems to think that should be the cat’s meow [excuse me, couldn’t help myself]. She wants proof. They live together, he points out, what more proof could she want. Well, she is enamored of him and wants him to marry her, of course. Fluffy howls with laughter and Sara pretends to be totally offended. She runs off and he chases after her, claiming he’s not making fun of her. He catches up with Sara, no doubt by her design, in front of the steps she pushed Hortensia down a year ago or so. “Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill!” (Don’t make a storm in a glass of water). “You KNOW I wasn’t born for marriage!” Sara protests that he treats her like a mascot, and she’s just a sex object. [Nope, folks, I’m not touching that line. Ferro and all you guys, have at it.] Is she just a little Pekinese or an angora cat? Fluffy whines a little that he’s just bought her a little company to keep her diverted. She retorts that if she doesn’t have his love, no material gift has any real meaning. He rubs his eyes with his hand. She’s lost heart and hers is destroyed. She’s a person, not a body, but he’ll never see her as that. He tries to tell her she’s just really high-strung (nervous), but she’s on a roll and butts in again. No, she’s deceived!! She’ll never be anything more in his life than a kitten. She can’t stand more! Off she runs up the famous steps. Fluffy is frustrated and tries to get her to come back, sighing, “women.” He rubs his eyes again.

Bruto has arrived, very cheerful as always, and greets Fluffy. Bruto likes his room, at least. Fluffy is glad. By the way, did he hear that? No, what? The Kitten. She’s in “Crisis.” Fluffy rolls his eyes. He invites Bruto for a drink and a listen. [Whoa, when did that bar get put in there? Was it always there when Hortensia lived here?] Fluffy thinks the time has come to break it off with Sara. Bruto is a little impactado. What? End it? You just bought this house and isn’t it all better than ever? No. It’s her who doesn’t like it. She just asked me something that will never happen. Bruto doesn’t want to be indiscreet, but can he ask what that might be? Fluffy rolls his eyes again. Matrimony. Bruto remarks it’s a natural desire. Fluffy says it goes against his principles; he vowed never to go to the altar. Okay, Bruto acknowledges Fluffy is talking about his convictions, but speaking from the heart, couldn’t Sara be his wife? Could be. But if Fluffy could avoid it he would. There are other ways to show affection. Bruto asks if he cares about her. Fluffy admits, with a big smile, that’s the closest thing to love he’s experienced. Bruto proposes that they drink to it. Fluffy smiles and clinks a glass with him. Bruto gives him that evil grin thing.

Ximena is trying to make points with Alex and Gina by building with Legos with them. She finishes a tower, worrying about it falling. Gina thinks it came out very pretty. Ximena goes for more points by telling them she likes playing with them. Gina remarks that she never played with them before. Ximena turns it back on Gina, who told her she didn’t draw well and thought badly of her. Gina and Alex give her grins. Ximena tells them she cares about their uncle. Gina wonders if she likes necklaces of stone. What kind? You know, the craft kind (they make at home). No, Ximena likes the store-bought kind (de marca, with a brand name). Alex tells Gina he told her so, they don’t all like that kind. Gina is disappointed. She wonders what they should give Lorena then. Ximena wonders if they’re giving Lorena a gift. Yep, we want her to go back with my uncle, Gina affirms with a lovely gap-toothed smile. Ximena sighs and says she wants them to go back together, too. [Mentira!] She knows how much their uncle loves Lorena. But….. The kids want to know what the “but” is. Ximena tells them she thinks Lore doesn’t want to go back with him, because she wants to have her OWN kids and not raise someone else’s. [B***h!! That’s one nasty set-up there.] Gina and Alex give each other a dismayed look. Ximena looks a bit smug when Fanny comes in to tell the children it’s late and time for bed. She asks pardon from Ximena because tomorrow she’ll have to work hard to get them up. Ximena excuses herself, she won’t wait for Ern. She kisses the kidlets goodbye. Fanny waves goodbye and Alex and Gina keep looking at each other with dismay.

There’s a bottle of pills knocked over on the bed, and an arm attached to a prone body….surprise, it’s Sara. Ostensibly, she’s taken an OD. Her eyes are slightly open when Fluffy comes in smiling and cheerful, and quickly realizes something’s amiss here. He talks to her supposedly unconscious self, asking what she’s done to herself. Fluffy tries to get her to wake up, shaking her gently, patting her face, and talking to her desperately. He’s commercial distressed.

Fluffy’s still working on his Kitten when we return from the commercial. He could have called 911 or at least his house doc by now. “Wake up! What have you done? You couldn’t do this to me!” Finally, he kicks into high gear and calls Bruto while Sara lies motionless.

Lorena greets Ernesto and wonders what’s the rush to talk to her. She notes that he seems very upset, so what’s happened? He explains that he’s been to the Armendáriz company and they’re planning to reopen it. Lorena doesn’t understand. He tells her that Sara has bought it. Lorena is impactidísima.

Bruto checks Sara while Fluffy begs him to save her. Bruto declares she’s had an OD as he holds the bottle. Duh. Fluffy groans and moans. “Why, Sara?”

Lorena tells Ernesto that it’s clear Sara continues with her bitterness and envy, or she wouldn’t have bought Hortensia’s company. Ernesto tells Lorena about Fluffy—an eccentric type who offered him a small fortune to work there with her. He did it without Sara knowing what he was doing. Of course, when she saw Ern she almost died. Lorena points out Sara knew Lorena and Ernesto were sweethearts and might even still think they are. Ernesto tells her he lied to Sara, and please don’t ask him to repeat what he’s told Sara. He never has said so many stupid things, but he thinks he convinced Sara. Of what? That you don’t matter to me, Ernesto tells Lorena, who is impactada. “Lorena, this is an opportunity to make her fall; for you, and for your family.” Lorena isn’t sure he should be risking himself this way. They ought to be leaving her to do what she wants. And the farther away, the better. Ernesto points out that Sara is just as obsessed as ever with Lorena. He would never forgive himself for leaving Sara in peace if she did something against Lorena or her family. Lorena rubs her forehead. She thinks it’s better to let Sara leave their lives. Ernesto disagrees. It’s better to know what her intentions are. Even if he has to separate himself from Lorena for a while. He reaches out and gently strokes her cheek with the back of his fingers and Lorena closes her eyes. Lorena’s eyes are abruptly opened when she hears Granny’s voice as she strolls in to greet Ernesto. The kids jump up off the sofa to greet Hortensia. Lorena says she thinks her Granny really ought to know about this. What? Sara’s shown up again. Hortensia is impactada.

Fluffy continues to mourn Sara’s OD while Bruto tells him they have to get Sara to the hospital and pump her stomach. Fluffy whines for him to save Sara. Bruto picks her up and carries her down to take her to the hospital, Fluffy trailing and moaning.

Apparently, Hortensia has been filled in, because she’s indignant about Sara hanging with a millionaire who is indulging her. She fusses about Sara getting into some high place with a fool who should know better, but Lorena thinks they should forget her. No way! Hortensia agrees with Ern. They have to watch Sara very closely. The b***h will have her punishment! We’ll catch this viper with her own weapons! Lorena tries to persuade Hortensia not to be so angry, and Hort tells her she’s sorry but she’s indignant. Ernesto tells her he understands and will do everything in his power to see that Sara pays for what she’s done. Hortensia fumes.

It’s dawn in the D. F. and Sara is resting peacefully. Bruto comes to see his “patient.” She grins and asks how she did. Did she pull the acting off well? Perfect! They chuckle together. They chat about the old guy, her supposed suicide attempt, and Bruto notes Fluffy hasn’t shown up. Sara asks if Bruto is sure that Fluffy is feeling the guilt. Absolutely! Last night Bruto saw another side of Fluffy Cuenca. No! Sara is jubilant. No, it’s the face of an idiot that we’re going to see from now on, she tells Bruto. They chuckle evilly as he tells her if all goes well, Fluffy will be eating out of her hand. The door opens and Sara flops back down on the bed into her pose.

Julian comes to the street outside his home to find his buddy Toño there. What’s up, Toño wants to know, greeting Julian. Julian is not so thrilled to see his former drinking bud, who happens to be the forger guy. Toño tells Julian he couldn’t have been so fried that he can’t remember him. No, Julian remembers Toño. But he never imagined seeing him there. Why not? They’re friends, right? He invites Julian to a party. Julian doesn’t want him to take this badly, but he’s retired from vices. Toño doesn’t believe it. They chitchat and Julian tells Toño his Mami woke up from the coma. Toño congratulates him on the miracle. Lorena strolls up and chats a minute, goes into the house, and Toño asks if she lives there. Julian says she’s his sister, and Toño marvels that Julian’s the brother of Lorena de la Cruz, since his name is Ruiz. He remarks that she’s much prettier in person than on television, and calls Julian cuñado—to which Julian takes exception. No doubt he doesn’t think Toño is good brother-in-law material for his baby sis. Then Toño realizes he knows the name from the forgeries and connects Chalo to Lorena de la Cruz of television fame. We see Toño flashing back to Chalo paying for the forgeries and congratulating Toño on his skill as a forger from long ago. Toño asks why Chalo’s dealing in forged docs from abandoned babies, and Chalo chides him not to ask. Toño comes back to the present and Julian wants to know why he zoned. Toño was remembering…he asks where the orphanage was where she grew up. San Martín. Could I talk to her? Julian doesn’t like that at all. Toño says it’s in good faith. Julian looks at him with suspicion and Toño says he thinks Lore knows a friend of his.

Bruto and Sara are still celebrating their coming victory over Fluffy, who happens to be the one coming in the door. She looks pitiful, though, and Fluffy is all “Sara, my little Kitten.” Bruto smiles and turns away to let her pitifully work her magic on Fluffy. He begs her pardon, he was insensitive, etc. If anything had happened to her, he would die. Without her, his life is meaningless. He begs her to swear she’ll never try anything like that again. She cries that her life is meaningless, she fell in love with him and he just uses her. Better he would have let her die. [Bravo! (clap, clap)] He swears that he’s going to be more demonstrative and they’ll be more united than ever. He’ll show her how important she is for him. “We’ll marry?” Something better. He hands her a file of docs and tells her to look for herself. She’s his sole heir. Sara gets a glow of success on her impactada face.

Monday: Julian tells Lorena about Toño’s news re: Chalo’s death.

Jeanne

Labels: enemiga