Caray, Caray!

That which has passed

Lady Ana Paula has apparently discovered that she is pregnant. Tia MentiRosa loses what is left of her mind.

Current Happenings

Lady Chatterley's Bedchamber: Efrain attempts to distract Lady Chatterley with kisses and caresses, but she is not of a mind for this now. He does not like that she will be marrying Sir Gustavo, declaring that she belongs to him. He doesn't like the idea that she is hiding things from him. He is somewhat relieved when she informs him that the marriage will not take place (He will not marry her for money), but disconcerted when she tells him that this is because Sir Gustavo loves another. He states he does not understand how another woman could be regarded as superior to her. Finally, he suggests the possibility that when she receives her inheritance he might take some of it to start a new life with his ex-fiancee.

Parlour: Maria speaks with His Lordship on the phone – he still does not reveal his whereabouts – then goes running for Lady Ana Paula, leaving a confused Lady Sneerwell alone with the waiting telephone.

Lady Chatterley's Bedchamber: Efrain is truly convinced that he wishes to remain with her. He wishes to approach His Lordship regarding his intentions, but Lady Chatterley tells him he cannot, as her brother would kill him. He does not wish to hear this, stating he has waited forever to have her share his life. Indeed, he may have truly predicted the outcome of this irregular situation as he emphasizes his feelings with some rather brutish kisses.

Miguel's Bedchamber: Tia MentiRosa and Lady Ana Paula have a disagreement regarding the situation. Maria enters to inform Her Ladyship that His Lordship wishes to speak to her. She has to inform him of what has been happening at the ranch. She tells her aunt once and for all that she will do what is best for her child.

Ana Paula: But, Aunt –
Rosaura: Of course it's my business. At least you haven't told Gustavo yet. Wait a little longer.
Ana Paula: Why? For what?
Rosaura: Didn't you hear Maria say that the relationship between Gustavo and Sinthia is serious? They are going to be married.
Ana Paula: No, Aunt. There will not be a wedding.
Rosaura: I don't believe it. Why not?
Ana Paula: Gustavo doesn't want to marry her because he doesn't love her. He still loves me and wants to fight for it.
Rosaura: What does that mean? You can't leave with him. If you do we all have to leave. Miguel, me... where to?
Ana Paula: To begin with, neither he nor Rogelio would care for you and Miguel. That's my problem.
Rosaura: Well. For all that he love you why didn't he think of all that? (Sits on the bed in Fred Sanford mode again) We are your only family. (clutches her chest) And I have a heart condition. And Miguel, well, you know –
Ana Paula: Ay, Aunt, enough! Don't start this over again.
Rosaura: I only tell the truth.
Ana Paula (truly harta): You know what? Leave me alone. Don't start up. Leave me alone, please.
Rosaura: Ay, don't raise your voice. I will help you in any way it suits you.
Ana Paula: All I have to think about is what is best for my child. This I will not discuss with you.
Maria (entering in a hurry): Paula, Paula!
Rosaura: What rudeness! What a way to enter.
Maria: It's Rogelio calling you!
Ana Paula: What? Rogelio has returned to the manor?
Rosaura: No, he's on the telephone.
Rosaura: Let me get my things. Don't argue with me, girl. (stars to exit)
Maria: Vamos! (exits past Rosaura, who prevents Ana Paula from following Maria)
Rosaura: That's a fine thing you've done, Ana Paula. Are you going to tell him that Gustavo broke up with Sinthia for you? Do you think you can be happy with Gustavo and the baby you're going to have?

Lady Ana Paula shakes her head and exits, leaving Tia MentiRosa behind.

Lady Chatterley's Bedchamber: Lady Sneerwell knocks, interrupting the tryst. Lady Chatterley lets her in as our foreman hides in the water closet. Lady Sneerwell informs Lady Chatterley that dinner is ready and that His Lordship has called Lady Ana Paula. Upon hearing that she is not yet on the phone with him, Lady Chatterley runs for the door, hoping to get to the telephone first. After her departure, Efrain speculates that His Lordship will consent to him marrying his sister once he knows that Margarito is his son and heir. We shall see.

Parlour: Her Ladyship picks up the telephone, but the line is dead. Poor service reigns in Chiapas. Just as Maria tells her she still does not know His Lordship's whereabouts the telephone rings again, but it is a wrong number. Lady Chatterley enters, demanding to speak to her brother, but is informed that the line went dead. She then orders Maria to send for her first the next time he calls before exiting with Lady Sneerwell. She pointedly looks at her unwanted sister-in-law during that exchange, obviously delivering a nasty snub. Lady Ana Paula then suggests to Maria that they continue their conversation in a less public place.

Miguel's Bedchamber: He finally acknowledges that he is an alcoholic because of his blackouts. She assures him she knows he didn't kill Maripaz. He is willing to go to AA. He tells Lady Daniela he loves her. They kiss as a new love song is played. He promises to become a better person for both their sakes.

Galván Mansion: Sad music plays as Vainessa cries. She is looking at the photo of her father, wishing he were there to help her in her current problems.

Corridor: Her Ladyship informs Maria that she is in a delicate condition. Ominous music plays.

Miguel's Bedchamber: Consuelo knocks, interrupting the next kiss. Lady Daniela excuses herself to get some secretarial work done for Skelator and exits. Consuelo enters with a food tray and refuses to speak to Miguel “I don't talk to killers.”

Corridor: Her Ladyship is worried about Maria's opinion, but it isn't an issue. Maria is only concerned that she care for herself and the baby. And that His Lordship not find out that Sir Gustavo is the father.

Ana Paula: You must be thinking the worst of me.
Maria: No. What I think isn't important. Now what you have to do is take care of the baby.
Ana Paula: What do you want to say, Maria?
Maria: That you have to take care of yourself.
Ana Paula: I don't know. I only know I can't do anything to put my baby's life in danger.
Maria: It is also important to think about what you are going to do.
Ana Paula: I have to tell Rogelio what is happening.
Maria: Don't leave.
Ana Paula: No, Maria. I have to tell him as soon as possible. The next time he calls I will.
Maria: But, Paula, if you do that there will be tragedy. Please don't tell him that Gustavo is the father.

Miguel's Bedchamber: He tells Consuelo that other people's opinions of him matter not, but hers do. She is angry at having lost her dearest friend, who had been like a sister to her. She parcels out the guilt in abundance, citing Maripaz's ambitions, how she was loved, and the pain her parents are experiencing. Because of him. They cannot sleep, have no desire to run their business or do anything because their only daughter is dead … And he has his previous girlfriend back. She insists that he tell her what happened, but he still has no memory of that night. Consuelo is then completely fed up, convinced that he must be guilty, and leaves the room.

Corridor: Moments of truth take place.

Maria: Think about it, Paula. Please.
Ana Paula (crying): I know this is a very precarious situation.
Maria: Sinthia told me Gustavo broke up with her over you.
Ana Paula: That's it. Gustavo doesn't want to marry Sinthia because he doesn't love her.
Maria: And because he continues to love you. (sad music beings) You're having a baby and this will destroy Rogelio and Sinthia.
Ana Paula: Ay, Maria, I don't want to be the cause of that.
Maria: Then don't tell Rogelio that the baby is Gustavo's. Tell him it's your ex-fiance's but not his name. Not his name. (opera music begins)
Ana Paula: But I don't want to deceive him any more. Every time it gets worse. I can't do this anymore, Maria, because I can't take any more. Besides, where is Rogelio? Doesn't he think that's important to me? How could he leave without saying anything to me? (Maria hugs her)
Maria: Remember he wanted to surprise you. We don't know where he is but of course he's thinking of you. That's why he just called you.
Ana Paula: In all things I thought the same. But once he knows I'm pregnant he won't want anything to do with me.

Maria embraces her comfortingly as the music swells to opera-level anguish.

A (real) Hospital Room in D.F.:* His Lordship looks disappointed as the telephone line goes dead. Dr Ernesto enters with an envelope of X-Rays and the news that he can operate on him. There is the possibility that the operation will enable him to walk again. Dr Ernesto warns him that there is a chance it will not be efficacious, but he is willing to try. He wants to be whole again... for Her Ladyship. They discuss returning to San Gabriel to inform everyone of their plans, including establishing a proper clinic there.

Ernesto: Have you spoken with Paula?
Rogelio: No. The call was cut off and without communication capability I can't find out what's happening at the estate.
Ernesto: I see. (taking out an x-ray sheet) Rogelio, I came to talk to you about your test results. (hands it to him)
Rogelio (looking at it): And?
Ernesto: What we were hoping for. I can operate and with good fortune you will regain the use of your legs.
Rogelio (laughing): By Jove! I'm..I'm... happy to get an opportunity I didn't think existed.
Ernesto: Well, I have to have to make you aware that after the surgery you still be the same. You might not recuperate movement.
Rogelio: Yes, I know, but at least for now I have hope. I want to take the risk.
Ernesto: You're doing this for Paula.
Rogelio: Of course. I want to be a man. A whole man for her. For my Paula. (Their love theme plays as he smiles.) Can you imagine how surprised Paula would be? I'm sure this will change many things. I know once she knows she'd come with me through all of this.
Ernesto: So, therefore let's go back to the estate tomorrow to give her the good news.
Rogelio: No; I can't go. I want you to see Margaro. I know it's some time before we know if he can walk or not. Check up on things, let me know what is gong on, and I'll stay here for the test that hasn't been done.
Ernesto: Of course; I agree. Before I go I'll have to stop off at Tuxtla to get the radiologist to take him to the estate and also to see my daughter.
Rogelio: So all should go well.
Ernesto: It would give me great pleasure to tell Mercedes of our association.
Rogelio: And we can begin building the clinic in San Gabriel. (They exchange a slight conspiratorial look, Rogelio rubs his hands together in delight, but then both look slightly apprehensive)

*This clearly is a scene shot in Jorge Salinas' hospital room; we can see from his paleness and the tired pain in his eyes he is not well. Pero, que actor; que hombre.

Kitchen: Lady Sneerwell has prepared Lady Chatterley's favorite meal and as Lady Chatterley praises it, asks her how she can help. Lady Chatterley informs her of the broken engagement and how she doesn't understand how Sir Gustavo can do this, as she could make him forget Lady Ana Paula.

Lady Ana Paula's Bedchamber: Sad music plays as Margarito still lies in bed, clad in his plaids and neck brace. Her Ladyship enters. He asks what she talked about with His Lordship and she tells him that the call was cut off. The boy is worried about his adoption. Her Ladyship tells him that she does not know what will become of her marriage to Lord Rogelio. Margarito asks about Sir Gustavo, but Lady Ana Paula says not to say more of this. Finally, she lays on the bed next to him, telling him she loves him and wants to take care of him (Margarito). He tells her that he would want to go with her if she leaves.

Kitchen: Maria sits at the table pensively drinking her afternoon coffee as Consuelo enters. They discuss Miguel. Maria is certain that Consuelo is in love with him. Maria herself is certain that Miguel had nothing to do with Maripaz' death. The police have found no proof so they can draw no conclusions.

Miguel's Bedchamber: Lady Daniela enters, happy that Miguel has decided to get treatment for his drinking problem. He is still anguished at Consuelo's condemnation. Lady Daniela proclaims her love and support. Their music sounds optimistic but then bittersweet.

Lady Ana Paula's Bedchamber: Sad music underscores Her Ladyship looking pensively at her reflection in the full-length mirror.

Ana Paula (with a maternal gesture): My love, if you were here I'd tell you everything. Forgive me for having to do this. But I love you and I want you to be happy. I swear to you I will fight for this.

Corridor, then Parlour: Underscored by opera storm music one evil pair attempts to plan.

Bruno (almost charging into the parlour): No, no, Rosaura, this can't be. This can't be! Paula can't be pregnant!
Rosaura (following): I had hoped not. She is an unthinking fool. By God, she's a nurse. She should have taken care of herself!Bruno (grabbing her arms and staring bug-eyed into her face): This can't be! How could she have had sex with that idiot Gustavo? We will lose everything!Rosaura (breaking his hold): Yes! I kept telling her that. What do we do?Bruno: Knowing Rogelio, this is something he will not forgive. Ever.Rosaura: Then we will lose everything. Home, accomodations...Bruno: Of course, of course. Me, too. Everything I've sacrificed, everything I've done –Rosaura: That fool. I don't know what she wants with that filthy brat.

Tia MentiRosa will surely face the fires of hell for that.

Galván Mansion: On the telephone, Vainessa attempts to persuade Lord ShadyDeal to remove the dam at Negra Manor, which he flatly refuses to do. She warns him that her former husband is a water commissioner and could get him arrested. He refuses to back down, determined to ruin Lord Rogelio. He thinks he has time before the charges are actually official. He also thinks that Lady Chatterley was in agreement with hitting her brother from all sides. We suspect that Lady Chatterley is also a target, in view of the fact that she had jilted Lord ShadyDeal for Sir Gustavo. Lord ShadyDeal is sure that when Lord Rogelio finds out about his sister's involvement, she'll come running to him for assistance. The conversation ends on a bad note, and Vainessa looks more worried than ever.

There is a full moon over Chiapas that night.

Galván Mansion, morning: Elsa wanders around, looking for Vainessa. She is still in pyjamas and robe and appears to be hallucinating, telling an unseen being to go away.

Ulisses' Café: Lady Sneerwell informs Sir Gustavo that she will be returning to Tuxtla. She wishes to see their mother. She asks him to reconsider marrying Lady Chatterley and he responds that he will not marry without love. “That can come after,” she tells him, citing Lady Ana Paula as an example. Before this conversation can go farther, Lord Esteban arrives.

Galván Mansion: Vainessa returns home to find her mother hallucinating that Lord Federico is sitting in his favorite chair in the very room in which she had murdered him. Elsa continues to whine, plead with the invisible, and display her madness.

Ulisses' Café: Lord Esteban hands the documents to Sir Gustavo, stating he would rather not enter Lord Rogelio's property. Sir Gustavo mentions the formal accusation against the owner of Negra Manor, whom he does not realize appears to be Vainessa.

Study: Maria asks Her Ladyship's permission for Consuelo to work temporarily for Ulisses and Macaria; Lady Ana Paula grants it for as long as necessary. There is more discussion of Consuelo's attitude toward Miguel for all the aforementioned reasons.

Galván Mansion: To horror-film notes in minor keys Elsa continues to hallucinate, expressing regret at having killed her husband. She imagines his ghost is following her around the house. Her madness is becoming worse and Vainessa's anguish increases. Truly she should send for the nice young men in their white frock coats.

Study: Skelator is truly at his despicable best.

Bruno: Every animal will have to be tested. To see if the clenbuterol –
Ana Paula: No; no. We will have to sacrifice them. It's horrible, but we need to find someone from whom to buy more cattle. (He turns his back and rolls his reptilian eyes) Bruno, I paid the contract penalty for the US deal and with this water problem have to buy mineral water. No, no, no, Bruno, we must think of solutions. I can't let Rogelio find the estate like this.
Bruno: Yes, yes, yes. I believe you're taking on too much, as before. But you would know that.
Ana Paula: Thank you very much, Bruno. I think that's all. Thanks,
Bruno (deliberately, while putting his hands in his pockets): Paula, are you sure you have nothing else to tell me?
Ana Paula (folding her arms): Such as?
Bruno: What your aunt told me. I know you are having Gustavo's baby.
Ana Paula (momentary expression of annoyance): But why do you –
Bruno: Because she's worried. I'm also –
Ana Paula: But why? (a knock on the door) Come in. (Gustavo enters with the file from Esteban. Bruno turns away)
Gustavo: By your leave --
Ana Paula: Bruno, will you allow me to talk to Gustavo?
Bruno: But –
Ana Paula: Please, Bruno. I ask you, please.
Bruno (angry, but only able to conceal it from her): As you say. (exits, pointedly closing the door behind him. The music takes on an impatient character.)
Gustavo (a little awkwardly): I guess I need to talk about this with you alone. Here are the papers about the water, for your signature. (hands her the file)
Ana Paula: Thanks. (opens the file as she goes behind the desk and picks up the pen) Here, right?
Gustavo: Yes.
Ana Paula (signs, closes the file, and hands it back to him): It's ready. Here.
Gustavo: Thanks.
Ana Paula: Gustavo, wait. We have to talk. Today I told you I had doubts about my feelings.
Gustavo: Yes, yes; I know. But I don't understand what you have doubts about. (ominous music begins)
Ana Paula: Listen to me because now more than ever I want you to know I'm being honest with you. I'm going to tell you something very important.
Gustavo: What's up, Ana?
Ana Paula: I'm... I'm pregnant. I am going to have your baby.
Gustavo: Are you sure?
Ana Paula: Yes. Of course yes.
Gustavo: I can't believe it. My baby? You're going to have my baby! (embraces her to the sound of sad opera music almost like Puccini's. She embraces him somewhat less ardently and releases him). What is it? Doesn't this please you? (releases her)
Ana Paula (going back to the desk): Of course it pleases me.
Gustavo: Then what is it?
Ana Paula: For all that I want this baby it isn't planned. In these circumstances although I'm happy I'm very worried.
Gustavo (kissing her hand excitedly): It's our baby. Made from our love. Doesn't that matter? (tries to turn her face toward him)
Ana Paula: Yes, yes. This baby was made from much love, but –
Gustavo: But what? Other things don't matter to me. For you and the baby I am capable of anything.
Ana Paula: Gustavo, it's not just that I'm married –
Gustavo: This baby is mine. I am the father and I will assume responsibility. That will be. Ana, forget about Rogelio. Marry me, please.

We see that she has been crying.

Ulisses' Café: Lord Esteban and Lady Sneerwell share coffee and speculate on the reason for Dr Ernesto's sudden departure. He suggests that it may have to do with the good doctor's daughter. She agrees, but thinks it could also be about their disagreements. However, Lord Esteban thinks that this will be resolved in a surprising may. He also tells her that he is aware that everything Vainessa does is about Lord Rogelio and that has led to a massive legal problem. He wishes to help her, but not if it makes him run afoul of the law.

Study: Notwithstanding that Lady Ana Paula remains uncertain of her feelings, Sir Gustavo is becoming possessive.

Ana Paula: I agree that you should know our child
Gustavo: I want to be present for his entire life.
Ana Paula: Yes. But I can't marry you.
Gustavo: What?
Ana Paula: That I can't marry you because I don't know my own feelings. That wouldn't be fair.
Gustavo: What isn't fair is you doing this.
Ana Paula: Gustavo, you are my first love, the father of my child, and all that I have felt for you can't be compared to anyone or anything. But if I have feelings for someone I can't have them for anyone else. Not until I can define what is in my heart.
Gustavo: And when do you think you will do this? (sarcastically) When our baby is born?
Ana Paula: Ay, no. Of course not.
Gustavo: It's certain that the baby is mine. I will not permit anyone else to take care of him or you. At least while you're pregnant.

Ulisses' Café: The two friends lament their ill luck in love. Lady Chio's name comes into the conversation. She is supposed to be on a buying trip for her shop. For the moment Lord Esteban wants to be a bachelor.

Study: Sir Gustavo is prepared to fight dragons.

Gustavo: Neither you nor my child will be anywhere near Rogelio.
Ana Paula: And do you think Rogelio would want me to be with you once he knows I'm pregnant? No, Gustavo. He will hate me and that is not the worst. You don't know what he would do to you if he knew you were the father. Don't think about me, Gustavo. It's better not to say anything now. It's better he doesn't know you're the father.
Gustavo: And what do you want me to do? To be grateful you're worried about me? Who are you, Ana Paula? I swear I don't know you.

Ulisses' Café: Lady Chio arrives, asking directions. She is staying nearby and the concierge recommended this Café. Macaria converses with her but without any enthusiasm. She then sees Lord Eseteban with Lady Sneerwell. And is not pleased.

Study: Sir Gustavo is determined to speak with His Lordship; Her Ladyship fears he would kill him and she doesn't want that to happen. He seizes her hand and inquires whether this is out of guilt or love.

Ana Paula: Gustavo, I am the same as ever. I am just telling you I want to be free of my doubts, of everything.
Gustavo: Do you think that this baby gives us another opportunity?
Ana Paula: I think that before we talk about this I need to speak to Rogelio when he returns. Then we can find the solution.
Gustavo: I will talk to Rogelio.
Ana Paula: No, no, no, please. He will kill you. He will kill you and I will die because I can't live with that.
Gustavo (seizing her hand and looking into her eyes): For guilt or for love?

Impatient opera music closes the scene.

Previews

Lady Ana Paula hears some good medical news while Sir Gustavo tells Lady Chatterley about Lady Ana Paula's condition. Surely he cannot know what havoc this will wreak.