Caray, Caray!

Un Refugio Para El Amor 159, 11/22/12
In which Oscar finally gets to the bottom of it; and the Jacinto family is formally welcomed into the Torreslanda mansion.

Oscar arrives in Max’s office but before Max can start to discuss the urgent work, Oscar announces they need to talk. Oscar remains standing, he barely holds back a sneer. “Do you know that I found Pedro Campos?” Max can’t believe it. Oscar asks Max: “Isn’t this great news? Don’t you want to know who the criminal is who set up Claudio Linares?” Max is speechless. “What’s the matter? Aren’t you interested?” Oscar taunts. Oscar lets Max know he’s been looking for Pedro Campos all these years. He tells Max that it turns out Campos is good friends with Vicki. “Don’t you think it’s important to resolve this issue, buddy?” Max asks if Oscar has already talked to Campos. Max wants to be the one to talk to him. He’ll demand the truth from Pedro Campos! “Of course,” Oscar says with disgust. He suggests Max ask Vicki how to get in touch with Campos. He knows Max is still cheating on RE with Vicki. Max leaps up all huffy - “that is none of your business!” Oscar just sneers and walks out. OK, Max is looking pretty worried now.

Rod is in Luci’s office with Pato. He has just handed Luci his impressive report card - wait, no that was his divorce papers. Rod announces that he and Gala are now divorced. [Dude, you already texted her that news.] Pato wonders how he feels. Rod feels as if great weight has been lifted off his shoulders. Both Luciana and Pato appear very uncomfortable. Rod wants to know how Luci feels. Luciana doesn’t appear to appreciate this particular trophy - it’s really none of her concern. She sincerely hopes Alexia will be OK. Rod stands there clearly frustrated that no one has jumped for joy, or at least patted him on the head and told him “good boy”. He clearly expected a different reception, not the resounding silence and averted eyes. He says he knows this subject is uncomfortable for Luci, but it was important to him that she know. Luci tries to hand back the papers, but Rod insists on finishing what he has to come to say. He declares his undying love for Luci while Pato winces in pain. Luci tells Rod that sometimes love is not enough, and besides, the only love she has left is the love she feels for her missing son. Rod angrily argues that it’s THEIR son and he promises to find him for her. Pato tries to leave but Luci stops him. So Rod, finally getting the hint, takes the folder and leaves. Pato tells Luci that with him she doesn’t need to hide the happiness this news must bring her. “Well, yes” Luci replies, and then gets back to the child search reports as that’s the only thing that will make her happy. But as she looks away Luciana does smile. She can’t help herself - she is pleased, after all. Pato notices.

Don Chelo is feeling pretty despondent these days. On the streets he asks Mateo wouldn’t he rather have a different dad, like Rodrigo? Mateo thinks it would be great - but only if he had both of them for dads. Chelo is touched that Mateo includes him.

Claudio Linares is finally having his face-to-face with Pedro Campos. Linares is there to let Campos know it’s about closure for him. He tells Campos how he and his family suffered at the hands of Maximino and him, about the twenty years in jail. Campos can’t quite believe that Linares is not out for blood. At this point, all Linares wants is to recover lost time with his daughter and find his lost grandson. Campos tells him he’s deeply sorry he caused all that pain and suffering for Linares and asks forgiveness. He only did it for the money. Claudio asks Campos: “has the money made you happy? Are you happy!!!” he yells. Claudio just wanted to tell him to his face that justice exists. He did things the best way, with honor. And when he finds his grandson, he’s going to be happy. He tells Campos that after twenty years in jail, he’s free, free!!! By the remorse on Campos’ face we infer that Campos is still chained.

Ahh - the dungeon in the sky! Gala’s having a packing party. She also declares herself finally free. And also a millionaire - woo hoo! Brigida pops in, inferring that Gala’s going on a long trip. Gala announces that she’s divorced, and she’s out of here. Brigida wonders what’s to happen with her. Gala makes a tacky joke that she infers the Brigida will never marry and the brujas have a good laugh. Even Brigida smiles LOL!

In Luci’s office, Luci is blown away when Claudio announces that the Torreslanda family is hosting her family at their home tonight for the “pedir la mano” ceremony. In turn, Luci blows Claudio away when she announces that Rodrigo just got divorced. So overall, Luci is expecting some very nasty comments from Rosalena tonight. Claudio tells her that what matters is that they go with Lorenzo to ask for Jana’s hand, and then they can leave.

Lorenzo tells Fabian he’s ready for tonight’s event. Fabian worries about the explosion when Paz and Rosalena are in the same room. For Lorenzo, all that matters is that he loves Jana. He’s in a great mood and the world is beautiful.

At luncheon, in the Torreslanda mansion, Max has apparently already informed Rosalena that tonight they are hosting Lorenzo and his family for Lorenzo to ask for Jana’s hand in marriage. Rosalena is outraged - she doesn’t that riffraff in her house! For once, Max puts his foot down. He’s fed up and he really tells Rosalena off for her behavior. It’s clear to him now that she doesn’t love their children one little bit, otherwise Rodrigo would be happy, and Jana wouldn’t be hiding her relationship from them. Of course Rosalena is affronted for being so judged. She just wants solid marriages for her children! “Ha ha - like ours?” Max taunts. [Awesome laugh Max!] He tells her flat out that he doesn’t what his children to have a spouse like her. “It hurts, right? That’s how it’s hurt for me all these years at the side of a heartless cold woman, cold as marble.” “The dinner is tonight,” Max insists, and if she doesn’t wish to attend, he’ll give her usual ‘migraine’ excuse. He leaves the table. Rosalena notices Mati watching from the kitchen.

At Curvas Continuas, it looks like Leandro has finally kissed Violeta into accepting his suit.

At Luciana’s, Magda and Violeta make their peace over her establishing a relationship with her father and going to see him without telling her. The ladies are all getting ready for the big “pedir la mano” event. Luci’s got kind of a Cleopatra thing going on. Luci’s happy to hear about Violeta’s new galán. Paz is very elegant in black and white, and Magda colorful as usual. Ariché comes in to break up the mutual admiration party. It’s time to go!

At home, Doña Chuy and Don Chelo fuss over the sleeping Mateo. Chelo seems worried about Mateo not being his son much longer. Ever since they’ve met Rodrigo, Chelo has been uneasy. Rodrigo invited Mateo to visit to see movies. Don Chelo’s worried Mateo will learn what a real home is like, with luxuries and all. Doña Chuy points out that Don Chelo shouldn’t deprive Mateo of experiences just because he can’t provide them.

The Jacinto-Flores family arrives with their entourage to the Torreslanda mansion. They are graciously welcomed by Max and couples shyly exchange “buenas noches”. Alexia runs out happily to greet Luciana. Rod tells Luci she looks lovely, and Luci escapes to greet Pato. Jana and Lorenzo can’t keep their eyes off each other. Magda and Paz are a bit too uncomfortable to be waited on by Mati, or even to sit down and accept drinks, but Rod and Max stress they are honored guests. Max formally welcomes everyone again, and excuses Rosalena as being absent due to a migraine, but Rosalena comes down the staircase to make her appearance, startling Lorenzo. Her poor children all look terrified and unhappy and the guests very uncomfortable.

Rosalena welcomes everyone to her home as well, and announces the purpose of this gathering for a memorable evening. Paz then says her piece - that these two young people are together out of love, not interest. Rosalena doesn’t look to impressed at Paz’s speech, but announces that she hopes the children plan to be married in the church. “It’s only the religious ceremony that counts”. Paz heartily agrees. Luci gets Jana and Lorenzo to sit down together on the couch. Max asks Lorenzo what he thinks. Lorenzo wants God’s blessing and Jana agrees. Violetta annoys Rosalena and Max by going on about a beautiful white wedding dress and then claiming a bridesmaid’s role. Claudio is there to speak on behalf of the late Don Galdino Jacinto to formally ask for Jana’s hand. This makes Max wince and Rosalena gets her back up, but they remain quiet. Claudio speaks to Lorenzo’s fine character, his honesty and integrity, and the loyal uninterested love Lorenzo has shown towards their daughter. RE and Max seem to be taking these words as a rebuke - squirming and frowning. Claudio asks them to grant their daughter Jana’s hand in marriage to Lorenzo. He will vouch for Lorenzo, and Paz heartily seconds, and Magda as well.

Max asks Jana if she’s sure she wants to unite her life with Lorenzo’s. She affirms that is what she truly wants. Max stands up so say that if Jana accepts Lorenzo, and if Lorenzo is willing to respect and love and be by her side forever, there is nothing left but to welcome Lorenzo into the family. Rosalena stands up to finally say she agrees with her husband and Max announces their permission for the marriage. The Jacinto-Flores gang looks rather relieved, especially Lorenzo.

Lorenzo stands up to reassure Jana’s parents that he will care for Jana more than his life and he steps forward to shake Max’s hand. He holds his hand out to Rosalena, who looks like she’s about to hurl at the very thought of touching him, but she finally gives him her hand to kiss. Then Lorenzo remembers the bit about the ring, searches frantically and finds it, then kneels to offer it to Jana and asks her to marry him. When she says yes, he slips the ring on her finger and they joyfully embrace and kiss while (almost) everyone smiles and applauds with great relief. Rod and Luci have eyes only for each other.

Gala’s is off partying in Acapulco with Mirko, Julie and friends. She hasn’t had such a good time in years! Mirko is very interested in talking investments for such a big sum, but Gala just wants to enjoy her freedom to partay!

The Jacinto-Flores entourage it ready to take their leave from the Torreslanda mansion and Claudio thanks the Torreslandas for the lovely evening. Max announces that he wants to give Jana a penthouse as a wedding present, so the newlyweds can live there. Claudio and Luciana are a bit stumped and announce that they have already bought an apartment in Luci’s building as a surprise wedding present for the couple. As they argue over who gets to gift an apartment, Lorenzo pipes up to insist that he and Jana had already decided to live in a place that Lorenzo can afford, and one is becoming available in the neighborhood. Rosalena protests in horror about their security, and when it looks like Luci and Rosalena are about to argue, Lorenzo suggests that he accept Max’s offer, but on the condition that he be able to deposit payments on the apartment and eventually earn the deed. Max protests, but Jana insists, so Max agrees. Doña Paz expresses her feelings of peace that everything has been made very clear for the young couple, above all, that everything is starting with so much love.

Rod chooses this happy, tranquil moment to pipe up that Doña Paz is completely right - any relationship should come from love otherwise it ends in divorce, like he and Gala. “What did you say, Rodrigo?” exclaims Rosalena. Rod tells her he and Gala divorced today. Luci looks quite exasperated at Rodrigo as Rosalena demands to know why she wasn’t informed. Rodrigo tells her it’s what he and Gala decided, and he and she should discuss it at another time. Tonight is Lorenzo and Jana’s night. [Uh, Rod, why didn’t you realize that a minute ago?] Mamá is NOT pleased but stands down. Luci’s smile has been erased as well.

The Jacinto-Flores entourage return to Luci’s apartment. Lorenzo is complaining to Claudio that he doesn’t want to be in debt to anybody. Claudio good-naturedly reminds him that he’s part of a family, and there is nothing wrong with accepting money or help from family. Lorenzo protest he can’t imagine asking such even from Luci, but Luci points out that if she had a serious problem, wouldn’t he want to help? The question offends Lorenzo. Well? says Luci, [it goes both ways.] She gets Lorenzo to promise that he’ll come to his family if he ever needs something.

Oh no, we’re hearing religious music and Rosalena is alone in her chapel. This can’t be good! She’s kneeling in front of a painting of the Crucifixion muttering about her sad dying soul. She’s come for justice because she has many enemies. She bitterly exhorts God to punish these evil, deceitful enemies for their crimes. She knows they are on her side against God, uh wait, against me? Right, against her, God’s chosen daughter. She begs God to show her the way, how to destroy these enemies. She begs for a sign so that no trace of Luciana’s filthy blood, or that of her people, remains. And if the sacrifice he’s waiting for to grant his favor, is her daughter, she offers her. He can take Jana. “Take her to your side in exchange for the purification of these lost souls.” Rosalena raises her hands in supplication. [OK - I know we have said this before, many times, but this is one sick, evil lady. I found this scene very disturbing to recap since I had to replay it a few times! It’s tough to understand Spanish when the speaker is clenching and spitting through her teeth! And the Oscar goes......to Laura Flores!]

Luci and Paz are getting ready for bed. Luci looks at the picture of her holding her baby. Paz says she doesn’t trust Rosalena accepting the engagement so easily. She won’t feel easy until the novios have God’s blessing in front of the altar.

Rodrigo comes into Alexia’s room to kiss her good night. Alexia wakes up and wonders where mami is. Rodrigo tells her Gala is off on a long trip, but she called and sends her kisses. He tells Alexia she’ll return soon. [Uh, Rod, I’d be careful about offering any promises about mami].

Max is out having drinks with Vicki. He toasts to a new phase in their relationship. Vicki teasingly asks if he’s getting divorced. Max says she knows he never will, and he slides her a big envelope. He put the penthouse in her name, and next week he’s going to find a location for her own salon in new plaza in the financial district. Before she can shower him with kisses, he raises his one condition - absolute fidelity. Vicki tells him he’s always had that. Vicki is delighted to invite Max to her new penthouse.

At his no-longer-dungeon-in-the-sky, Rod asks Brigida “Did Gala really take all her things?” Brigida confirms, and Gala didn’t tell her anything, just treated her like an old shoe. She was sent to the kitchen and ordered not to leave until she heard the front door close. So if Gala left anything behind, it’s not her fault! Brigida infers that Gala will never return and says good night. Poor worn out Rod stands in his living room alone and takes off his glasses. He looks a little lost, but maybe he’s starting to relax. [I know I would be if I didn’t have to brace myself for a screaming banshee to come blasting into the room at any moment.]

Rosalena is asleep in bed when Max sneaks into the master chamber. Oops - busted, she turns on her lamp: “Did you have a good time?” She thinks it’s quite strange that he left the house after dinner due to an urgent business matter. Well, he’s here now. “You’re still cheating on me!” cries Rosalena. Max just rolls his eyes and turns away to walk into the bathroom. Rosalena rushes out of bed grab her rosary. She kneels and feverishly prays for Max’s soul and delivery from his sins.

Brigida is living the high-life up in the no-longer-dungeon-in-the-sky. She’s got her feet up on the table and is busy stuffing her face while she delightedly gives Julie the scoop over the phone. She tells her all about last night’s big pedir la mano event and how Claudio Linares acted as “el taquero’s” father. Julie looks disgusted.

At breakfast Luci tells Paz and Magda they’ve just got to meet Mateo. Off they go!

In the Torreslanda boardroom Max and Oscar are meeting with others including Claudio. Max calls Selena to ask why neither Pato nor Rodrigo are there yet. Oscar is glaring at Max, he seems barely able to control himself. Max dismisses the meeting but asks Claudio to stay behind. Oscar remains seated. Max asks Oscar what other important issue needs to be addressed. Yes, there is one, says Oscar. He takes out a paper, signs it and hands it to Max. “My resignation!”  “Excuse me?” asks Max. “From today on, I no longer work here.” is the reply. Max can’t believe it. “What’s wrong with you!” he snarls. Claudio stands up and tells Max that Oscar spoke with Pedro Campos and now he knows the truth. “What I always knew,” says Claudio, “that YOU engineered the fraud charges against me!” Max is speechless. Oscar is still glaring.

Luci and entourage show up at Don Chelo’s boxcar. Luci introduces Mateo to Paz and Magda. Chelo and Mateo invite them to breakfast. Paz says they’ve already breakfasted. Mateo pipes up that they’ll just put some water in the coffee and ya! Paz is totally struck by the darling little fellow. We get the magical music.

“If it’s about Pedro Campos - well get Linares to explain everything!” Max blusters at Oscar. “Cut out the lying!” cries Claudio as he slams his hand on the table, “sooner or later they’re going to discover your betrayal.” He spells out to Max that Pedro Campos confessed to both he and Oscar that it was Max who bribed him to set up Claudio and put him in jail for twenty years. Max still doesn’t take it seriously and tells him not yell in the office. Claudio will yell when he bloody well pleases: “If you have this office, this while elephant(?), it’s thanks to ME, to my money, my confidence and my friendship. You betrayed me! You put me in jail because you are a miserable thief, you’re less than a man!” Max finally stands up. This is all just rolling off his back. “Claudio, you still don’t have any proof,” he sneers. “I have them, Maximino!” Oscar declares. He tells Max to quit lying. Pedro Campos is willing to state in front of Max that it was Max who ordered the fraud and paid him millions of pesos to implicate Claudio. “And he’s willing to tell the truth in front of me and anyone,” adds Claudio. Since Claudio already paid for Campos’ crime, Campos is free under Mexican law, but not from his conscience. “Shall I ask him to come right now?” taunts Claudio “in front of a special board meeting? In front of your three children?” as he grabs the phone. At this Max explodes at Claudio and tells him to let go the phone. “You’re feeling panic, right? Now you’re starting to feel the fear I felt alone, with no recourses, when they isolated me and I was unable to defend myself, accused of a fraud that YOU created. You never could stand the envy you felt over my money, my relationship with my wife, and it was you arrogance that made you destroy me!” Max shoves Claudio and feints fisticuffs. Claudio taunts him some more: “Blows won’t relieve your conscience knowing you are a fraud, a thief, a little man!” Oscar breaks them up. He yells at Maximino that he’ll never work for him again. His resignation is irrevocable! At this moment, Rodrigo and Pato come into the room wondering what’s going on and Max has real fear in his eyes when he looks at his sons.

Avances: Yep - Max’s sons find out what daddy did, Rod yells at Rosalena, and Julie and Gala are up to something.

Vocabulario:

una enorme carga se me quitó de encima - a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders (off of me)
sobrellevar - to endure, bear, to make it through
no quitar el dedo del renglon - to never lift one’s finger off the line, i.e. never take one’s eyes off the ball
gentuza - riffraff, rabble
perverso - evil, wicked
jaqueca - migraine
inquietarse - to worry, be uneasy
conceder - give, award, grant
responder por alguien - to vouch for somebody
una velada - an evening, or an evening event
un rastro - a trace, sign, trail
sobornar - to bribe
un poco hombre - less than a man; not much of a man
hundir - to sink, destroy, bring down

La Petición (Pedida) de Mano:

Asking the father for the “hand” (old english/german), or “manus” (latin), of a woman dates from early times in Ancient Rome. The prospective groom is not, in fact, asking that the lady place her hand in his, signifying their joining as a couple, nor that he lead the lady away by the hand, nor even put a ring on it. “Hand” or “manus” in this case refers to the legal rights or custody (patria potestas) over the lady. In Roman times, women were under the authority of their father, guardian, or husband. In fact, all adult children in Rome were under the total authority of their paterfamilias or male head of the family. So the act of marriage involved transferring authority over the woman and her possessions from the father/guardian to the husband. Note that the husband would still be under the authority of his own father if living. In some sense, it was the legal equivalent of having the woman adopted by her husband, sharing the same legal status as their children. Interestingly, in later Roman times, the practice fell out of favor so that husbands no longer were granted legal custody of their wives. The wife remained under her father’s authority and any property pertaining to her remained under her father’s control. Several English words involving “hand” or “man” are actually referring to the legal rights of a person - examples: manumission, emancipation.

From what I can tell the pedir la mano “ceremony”, which clearly evolved to mean asking permission of parents to marry their daughter, is still very popular in Mexico, even though any legal basis is long gone for an adult woman (age 18+). Parental consent is not required, and if there is any contract to be signed, it is between the two individuals, not their families. It may be that it’s really about the joining of two families, having a discussion of the wedding arrangements and acknowledgment of the relationship of the would-be couple/family to their birth families. Family life including the extended family is still supremely important in Mexican culture, so that’s my theory about the persistence of the practice.

Labels: refugio