Caray, Caray!

EL SECRETARIO:

And don't forget, I will still continue to do my one episode recap per week of "El Secretario" until it ends. I'm figuring it may end sometime around the beginning of April (perhaps around Easter).

PASION PROHIBIDO:

I saw part of one episode. JenCarlos and the little boy who plays his brother are very adorable together. I may have to watch just to see them.

 

MADE IN CARTEGENA, Friday, Part 1

Of course, Flora agrees to try to get close to Vicente, totally buying Harvey's act. Harvey gives her a watch which is really a high resolution camera. She's to take pictures of anything to do with Vicente and the Santa Helena. At this point Sofi calls, wants to talk, and Flora says let's meet at the bank. In the meantime, Watusi and Sabroso have the drawing of the raffle to build the new dance school, and of course the winner is...Vicente Dominguez! They don't know where to find him, until they hear a radio broadcast saying the bank customers who lost their money the other day have been assured it's all back, thanks to bank president Vicente Dominguez. So Watu goes to the bank. He's initially stopped by security, but Silvia comes out, recognizes him, and they'll wait for Vicente to arrive to give him his prize for winning the raffle. At this point Flora and Sofi arrive, and Flora sees Watu. What's HE doing here?!

Matilda discovers the drugs Marco (it might be Marcos, can't tell with the accent, I'll just call him Marco) gave Sofi, while washing her blouse. BTW, Marco is Sofi's cousin, her boyfriend is the nice boy with dark hair, Pablo. Matilda asks one of the security guys in the house what the drugs are, saying they were her nephew's. The guy says it's Ecstasy, a dangerous drug, very in fashion these days, which worries Matilda.

Vicente and Imanuol were meeting in an art gallery, where there's going to be an exhibition of the Santa Helena. They discuss security with the security guy of the art gallery. Mireya, in disguise, just happens to be in the gallery listening in on everything they say. Vicente had earlier invited Flora to the exhibition, although it was just in passing, and was followed by that night on the beach, where they almost kissed.

I think the security guy at the gallery is named Jhonny. Through the internet, the crew discover he's gay. One of the three guys has to get info from him, by pretending to be gay. Of course no one wants to do it. They draw straws. Max loses. BTW, some of the others call Blatcho “Sapo”, because he looks a little like a frog. Harvey calls him “primo”, I think they're actually cousins.
 

MADE IN CARTEGENA, Part 2

In the bank, we have a keystone cops moment, as Sofi goes into the hall to call Marco, Watu goes to the men's room right past her w/o seeing her, Flora's in Vicente's office taking pictures with her watch. Flora also has a miniature microphone she's supposed to plant in the office, which she can't find! She finally sees it on the floor, just as Vicente enters! She finally gets him to look the other way by asking about a photo of his deceased wife on the wall, and she manages to pick up the little mike. Sofi enters. She needs some money, since I think Vicente has cut off her credit cards. He gives her some cash (she probably needs this to pay for the drugs from Marco!) Silvia announces a young guy is here about a raffle, named Watusi, and Flora gets a stricken look. How can she avoid being seen? She walks over to a plant, talks into the mike, Harvey, what can I do? She then plants the mike in the plant. Harvey calls Watusi, lies and tells him his uncle Sabroso had an accident. And it works. Watu rushes out. And when he calls Sabroso on the cell, Sabroso doesn't hear it, as he's changing a tire, with his radio playing loud music. Close call!

And things keep getting crazier. Sofi has to go to Almendros, a rough neighborhood, to pay for the drugs, since Marco didn't FEEL like it (baby). Flora says don't go there! Sofi wonders how would Flora know, has she ever been there? Of course not, I, umm, just had a friend who said....As Watusi watches, desperate and confused, Sofi gets into a taxi, Flora gets into her chauffeured car, and Watusi can't get anywhere. Max and Blatcho get on a moto, and purposely crash into Sabroso, so there really WAS an accident!

Meanwhile, Vicente and Imanuol have a talk, since Vicente noticed Flora seemed tense (so did Silvia), and Vicente doesn't remember what happened at the beach. Imanuol tells him he danced with Flora and almost kissed her. If Flora tells Sofia, Sofi could be really mad or grossed out about this. But Imanuol says he didn't tell Vicente at the time, since he looked happy, for the first time in a while. Harvey hears all this, since Flora planted that mike in that plant. Harvey tells Agua Mala he's going to have one hour to do some computer virus, which will allow the crew to do something in the exhibition to steal the Santa Helena.

Silvia tells Imanuol they should postpone the exhibition, but Imanuol doesn't want to.

Flora, after being dropped off by her chauffeur at her rich fake house, high tails it to the barrio, and finds Sabroso hurt, but okay, on his hammock. He asks about Cande, and she tells him Cande's the same, still in critical condition. Sabroso thinks both the attack on him, and Cande, have something to do with Harvey. But before Flora can think about this, Watusi arrives. They comfort Sabroso, who says somehow, all this is connected (you can say that again). Watu and Flora talk, and Watu says what were you doing at the bank? She again gives some cock and bull story, and he says, here we go again. You aren't telling me the truth. The whole barrio sees all your new clothes. I'm just tired of all this.

Sofi has been dropped off in the rough neighborhood by the taxi driver, who won't wait. She can't find the dealer. She calls Flora, who wants to answer the phone, but Watusi says don't answer. She does anyway, and hears Sofi being attacked! A guy has come behind her and dragged her into a building! Flora has yelled out Sofi, with Watu right there! And we have to wait til Monday!!!!

 

EL SECRETARIO

oops! Sorry, Jody Kolmen. I just added this little gem to the roster. Thanks for reminding me.
 

Comments on El Final de Pablo Escobar

Some trivia from the interviews with María Celeste:

Andrés Parra (Escobar) talks about how he had to lose a substantial amount of weight, I think he said 35 lbs or so, to portray the younger man. But since they shot out of sequence, he had to wear a fat suit to show how Escobar ballooned in the year he spent in La Catedral. Parra also mentioned how uncomfortable the fake beard was and how hard it was to talk through it.

The actor describes listening to the real Escobar's speech pattern for hours on end until he had internalized it. He had no way of knowing if Escobar spoke that way privately but Parra decided to carry over that strange, clumsy pedantic style to even the most intimate scenes.

When asked about how people reacted to the show, he told of a group of rough, unsentimental Bogotá taxi drivers who were brought to tears watching the episode portraying Galán's death.

Nicolás Montero, the actor who played Galán, talked about the emotional impact of re-enacting speeches in the actual historical sites in front of real people and how a woman in the crowd approached him and begged him not to let them kill him. (This reminded me of what happened during a play re-enacting the life -- and heroic death -- of La Pola, the Joan of Arc of Colombian history: the audience rose up and refused to let her be killed; the play was revised to accommodate them and in the end, La Pola lived.)

Christian Tappan (Gonzalo) showed a video he and Parra made in which Parra imitates a whale in the swimming pool and Tappan does a great imitation of a straight-faced nature narrator.

Cecilia Navia (Paty) was abashed by a video of her and Parra dancing and goofing around between takes. She joked that if she had three fans in the world, she lost them when that video went public.

The actor who played Pabón (the others called him "Jimmy" but I forget his name) was almost unrecognizable in real life. He said when the show was aired, he received a couple of scary, rambling emails. He also said that he met the real Pabón and found him cold and distant. He speculated that the man had been traumatized by the death of his son in an auto accident a few years after the events of the drama.

The show also included the actor who portrayed el Coronel Jiménez (I don't remember his name). He told of inadvertently shaving off half his moustache one morning, forgetting that it was part of his character, and described the ensuing mini-crisis when he arrived on the set that day.

Vicky Hernández, who portrayed Escobar's mother, told how she was taken aback when a woman approached her and introduced herself as one of Escobar's sisters. The other actors were quite deferential to Hernández, especially Parra.

Over all, María Celeste got this one right, I think. She let her subjects talk and didn't hog the spotlight or fake a friendship with people she had just met. What do you think?
 

EL FINAL DE PABLO ESCOBAR - MARÍA CELESTE

Thanks for getting the ball rolling, NovelaMaven. I thoroughly enjoyed this hour with the actors. For me it was rather cleansing to see these very bad guys as talented actors and thoroughly nice people.

The Jimmy actor (Pabon) also commented that he has a fear of heights and was terrified in the scenes when he was up in helicoptors filming scenes of pursuing the narcos, especially the small ones he called "mosquitoes".

The actor who played Topo had never left Colombia before! He spoke about being on a plane, to Miami I think, sitting beside the a actor who played Chili and the plane hit an air pocket and dropped precipitously. He described two terrible bandidos shrieking in fear.

The actor who played El Mariachi was especially engaging and funny. I wish I could remember all his one-liners.

Oh, the Mariachi actor said he also gained weight for the role and said something about dedication to his craft which cracked everyone up.

All in all it was an excellent post-production conversation. I thought it was much better than the Cristina shows I've seen for a similar purpose.
 

PABLO ESCOBAR - MARÍA CELESTE

Just remembered one more thing that fascinated me. Christian Tappan, Gonzalo, said he had been chosen for a movie, in the early planning stages, in which he is to play Gabriel García Márquez. Hmmm. I don't think he physically looks the part, but good acting can certainly create illusions.
 

MÁS ESCOBAR

I found a video featuring the Pablo and Gonzalo actors which was very entertainging. It's short.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJc4jfcIQFo&feature=player_detailpage
 

EL FINAL DE PABLO ESCOBAR

Oh yes, el Topo and el Mariachi! And Jimmy and his scary helicopter scenes! Thanks so much for adding those details. I'm just going off what I remember -- I didn't jot down notes last night and wouldn't be surprised if I got some details wrong.

And thanks for the video. It is delightful. I am very impressed with Christian Tappan as an actor -- I've only seen him in three roles now (the "Chump" in El Clon, the DEA agent "Willy" in La reina del sur and now Gonzalo in this novela) but I am dazzled by his ability to transform himself into the character. He seems able to set aside personal vanity and just become what the role demands.

I liked the debriefings on the now-defunct Cristina Show but I admit I liked this format better because it was more about the actors and less about the interviewer.
 

Telemundo -

Pasión Prohibida

off to a slow start, compared to say Corazon Valiente, first introducing the players, next why they are how they are, and now, we are starting to see the gears turning when they talk, Bianca Santillana (Mónica Spear) radiating young, beauty and innocence, but has lived always in the shadow of a master manipulator, her mother, Flavia Santillana (Rebecca Jones), has enticed Ariel Piamonte (Roberto Vander) into marrying her, and such a sly evil smile from her when her mother realizes she has been out maneuvered, but as the story goes on, she so hates Bruno Hurtado (Jencarlos Canela) who totally played her sister Penèlope, and he, who would never want anything to do with the snobbish Bianca, and everytime they clash, they step closer...

Mónica Spear is becoming fascinating to watch as she quietly shows us her character's inner turmoil.


La Patrona

wow, such and impossible romance, Alejandro Beltrán (Jorge Luis Pila) the son of the patrona and Gabriela Suárez, a minera in their mine, and as the bad guys are winning, leaps and bounds, crumbs to the good guys, Alejandro really shows us how he can make this work, a gran amor,

but,

as the dna proof of Gabriela's son circulates around, that Fernando, (Alejandro's brother) is the father, Alejandro buys into the idea that Fernando and Gabriela were lovers, and as he confronts her, (wow, what a scene)

Gabriela is crushed to find out who raped her, and ruined her life, and as Alejandro pushes on how she and Fernando were lovers, wow, when she can at last focus on him, she throws him out,

I suspect, there will be no gran amor,


El Señor de los Cielos

began filming 14 jan 13, some new teasers, but no dates.


Marido En Alquiler

Juan Soler (don't know him) has signed on to Telemundo, and has appeared in the cast list on wiki with Sonya Smith.
 

Pasión Prohibida

deb - wonderful summary. ITA with you regarding Monica Spear.


Marido En Alquiler

love the title. Juan Soler/Sonya Smith... seem well suited for each other. sounds promising.
 

LA PATRONA

My mom is watching this and i saw a few episodes. Plotline is ok so far. but what i dont do like is the cast. The only actor i recognize is Jorge Luis Pila. Cristian De La Campa doesn't count seeing as i never watched RELACIONES PELIGROSAS. ALGUIEN TE MIRA was the same way I only recognized Karla Monroig. Everyone else was foreign to me.

AMOR CAUTIVO
I only recognize Arap Bethke. But i can forgive this novela since it is produced by AZTECA. Marimar Vega and Barbara De Regil are dead-sexy. TELEMUNDO should add these two in any future novela if given the chance.

PASION PROHIBIDA

Plotline is also great so far. Whoever the hell said they never found Jencarlos interesting obviously never watched MAS SABE EL DIABLO. The actor playing Nicolas was also in MSED as Lorenzo Blanco. Dont know why but i dont like Monica Spears hairstyle. And dont even get me started on Marisela Gonzalez! Really liked her as the sexy-as-hell fiscal from DONDE ESTA ELISA? The actor that played Salazar is now the gardener. Carmen Aub is as much of a crybaby as she was on DEE?, but at least shes not cuttin herself(yet). Guillermo and Nuria. Funny seeing these two paired again. In LA CASA DE AL LADO they were the parents of Gonzaki and Adolfmael.
Someone please recap this.

on a side note did anyone ever watch SALOME? It is being reaired in UNIVISION NOVELAS. Roberto Vander played a crazy man, and Katie Barberi had platinum blonde hair(YUCK!).

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

Did not know this until recently. But the actor that plays Layton (Rodrigo De La Rosa) played Pedro Pablo in ATM. Did he lose weight? Maybe thats why i didnt recognize him. He also speaks differently.
 

Enjoy La Patrona recaps by Bill C ! Hilarious ! But how do I find when posted?
Thanks
Caroline
 

I agree with Deb-no grand amor for Gabi and Alejandro ESP when she told JLP's character 'tu no mereces mi amor'-you don't deserve my love. While I rejoiced that the protagonist still retained her dignity-learn this pls Julia Montemar de Beltran-even as she found out such horrific news, Aracely and JLP have great quimica and he forces her to step her game up and I'm sad that the scene, which I rewound a gazilion times just for JLP's acting and Aracely's reaction, shows that they can't end up together.
 

PASION PROHIBIDA

NovelaMan, glad you appreciate Jencarlos as much as I do. Mas Sabe el Diablo is one of the best imho. i like Lorenzo Blanco too, but hope his character here is not that of a weakling. As for Spear's hairstyle, I think it's modern/edgy and not typical telenovela (extensions and all) style; refreshing.
 

PASION PROHIBIDA

It's pretty intriguing so far... Monica Spear is knockin it out of the park as far as I'm concerned. She's so good at "communicating" her character through her demeanor and facial expressions. And I love her hair in this one!

I've always been on the fence about Jencarlos, but he's playing his character well and I'm interested to see more (even though something about his teeth bothers me, and always has since Lola Volcan).

Nina, well I have a feeling I'll be FFing most of her scenes. The overacting is killing me.

I'm liking this one so far!

AnotherAmy
 

PASION PROHIBIDA

couple of things I noticed (that currently comes to mind):
-no one seems to have a job, except for the household staff
-the young/younger ones don't have friends; especially Nina should get one.

 

Pasión Prohibida

how about Liannet Borrego, who played Verónica the lucious seducer in Mi Corazón Insiste, now a conservatively dressed, but snarly appearing maid in the Santillana home, named Katia, what's her story?
 

PASION PROHIBIDA

Liannet Borrego played a housekeeper (Milady) as well in El Fantasma de Elena, and on that she was the daughter or niece also of a maid, who plays one in this novela too.
 

La Patrona: Why did I sort of cheer when Gaby told Ale to get out of her house when he didn't believe she was raped? Contrast her assertive, empowered reaction to his coldness towards her to Irene hoeing herself out to Ale and crying in the bano when it didn't work, and Julia de Montemar Beltran acting so silly towards a man who doesn't want her. The writers are basically saying money doesn't give you psychological strength.

The guy who plays Fer is a favorite. I hate the guy since he's a violador, but you get the feeling if Guerra wasn't his mom he wouldn't be such a creep. Rape is about power, so raping out of revenge and rejection isn't unrealistic, but is so abhorrent. Especially since if he hadn't raped Gabi, he had the requisite galan looks and ardor to be fps with Gabi. Good on Manuel Balbi for making me feel sympathy for a rapist or me being a Sicko.

PP: Saw the first five minutes of this show and dude who plays Bruno annoys me, as well as petulant daughter crying about dad remarry. I don't like tns where the characters don't work. It seems like mind-rotting fluff to me.
 

Pasion Prohiba
Hahaha, mind-rotting fluff it may be, Anon, but I'm already onboard with the characters, although I wish someone would stuff a sock in Nena's mouth.
So on Friday, Flavia is invited to go along to Auntie's hacienda for a fun family visit with Ariel, Bianca and the kiddies. (And Bruno of course.) Aunty overhears Flavia and Bianca discussing their familiy's disastrous debt, and she later warns her brother Ariel to have Bianca sign a pre-nup. Bruno reveals to Bianca that Ariel isn't really his uncle, but rather a distant cousin of his father's. Both parents died in a car crash which he, Bruno, miraculously survived, and if it wasn't for the kindness of "uncle Ariel", Bruno says he would probably be living on the streets of Bogota.
J in Oregon

 

I didn.t mean to come off so condescending about PP, but Bruno reminds me of an even more annoying Zoolander with the sense of irony.

I know tns are aspirational, but I don't like watching lazy' rich people's problems. That's prolly why I like La Patrona-everyone has a job,even a villana like Guerra-she's like the Devil, busy wreaking havoc. I was shocked finally seeing her at the club playing cards. I was thinking 'Shouldn't you be out destroying somebody's life?' I think Poncia works less than Guerra because Poncia is the house manager and not the person doing the actual cleaning.

J desde NYC
 

PASION PROHIBIDA

lol!! ... "mind-rotting fluff".... love it!
 

PASIÓN PROHIBIDA

I can't make up my mind about this one. Monica Spear is just fascinating to watch - as she was in Flor Salvaje. She has one of those faces that you seek out no matter how many other actors are in the scene.

Jencarlos' character, Bruno, started off as a bad boy, actually stealing from a child's piggybank! And he seemed bent on spoiling Penelope's wedding and relationship with her new husband. But they're softening him up big time. So I'm guessing the prohibited passion will be between he and Monica's character. Jencarlos IS very young, but for some reason he seems younger in this than he did in either Más Sabe el Diablo OR Mí Corazón Insiste.

Yep, that whining Nina just about puts me off the whole novela. She appears completely bi-polar. She discovers her father's finished wood carving of her face and does a 180 in 10 seconds flat!

The Ariel character is growing on me. Someone, somewhere, posted that they should have used a handsomer older man, someone like Saúl Lisazo. I sort of agreed because Monica kissing this guy has a bit of an "ick" factor. But the guy is doing a good job of playing a really good person.
 

ERDLV is airing an hour long from now on. Hope Cristian Carabias and Roberto Mateos get more screen time now. Really liked these guys as Topo and Leon in MSED
 

LA PATRONA

My feelings about this novela remind me of a line from "Brokeback Mountain". "I wish I could quit you..."

Alejandro's behavior didn't work for me at all. I read a quote by a telenovela writer somewhere that stated that the formula for a telenovela was keeping the two protagonists apart for as long as possible. As Gabriela told Ale to his face during their confrontation at her home, he witnessed her terror and flashbacks when he tried to make love to her the first time. And he now thinks she faked all that in case he'd find out about Fernando down the road? Bah!

What bothers me about this novela is its flavor of Mexican soaps in which all the evil people win every single battle until the last week. There was ONE exception. El Tigre managed to get Gaston out of jail by clearly saying he was getting drunk with him in the cantina and/or locked up for public drunkenness at the time of the murder.

Alejandro bought Irene's tale of Gaby being in love with Fer when they were very young. He's presented as smart, and he knew that Irene was after him. In a total cliché, she says she's given up and only wants to be his friend. And then he buys her whole tale. Later, seeing Gaby's complete horror at finding out it was Fernando who raped her, he STILL thinks she was his brother's willing sex partner?

So I'm not sure I'm willing to watch 100 plus more episodes of Antonia repeatedly licking her chops as she wins every single battle.

And, they surely seem to be leading up to David turning his back on his humble mother and grandfather and going for the luxury.

The way to redeem this one for me would be the introduction of a new character, a real mensch, who courts Gaby. She falls in love with the new guy, leaving both Fernando AND Alejandro to realize what they'd lost.
 

PASIÓN PROHIBIDA

novelera - it seems to me Jencarlos lost a bit of weight; not stocky like before. plus shorter/less hair probably contributes to his more youthful appearance? he looks like a baby with his pink lips and cute teeth.
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
 

MADE IN CARTEGENA, Monday

Sofia a tied up by the drug dealer. He's super paranoid, thinks she's a spy, even though she just came to buy or pay for the Ecstasy. He also gags her with a bandana. He then smokes some pot, drinks some beer, shows her the pills, doesn't really know what to do with her, as he gets high. She keeps eying a baseball bat in the corner. Somehow Flora figures out where she is. Unknown to her, Watusi has been following her. Flora knocks on the door. Nothing. She finally takes a brick, and smashes her way in. At this point, the drug dealer had untied Sofi, and was trying to sweet talk her. She jumps up, grabs the baseball bat, but he's too strong. Then Flora bursts in, but he throws them both on the bed and points the gun at them, hands trembling. Just then, Watusi bursts in, kicks the crap out the the guy, rendering him unconscious. He calls the cops, wants to wait, but Flora says please don't get Sofi involved, she has a problem with drugs, and Watu says okay, you two go. However, before they go, he and Flora hug and say they love each other, Sofi hearing every word. Sofi and Flora take a cab home, and Flora admits she loves Watu, even though they're from “different worlds”. Sofi can't believe she could be with someone so different from her. Hah! We see that Watu has written a little sign, putting it on top of the unconscious drug dealer, which says “I'm a drug dealer, and here is my merchandise.”

Matilde wants Vicente and Sofia to talk about her drug problem, but she doesn't want to do it directly. She calls Sofia, tells her she found drugs, and she has to tell her Dad, or else she (Matilde) will. She looks through Sofi's room, finds a pipe and a condom. She tells Vicente she found the condom, he should talk to his daughter. So I guess when they talk, Sofi will be thinking drugs, Vicente, the condom.

Sabroso realizes that Harvey had something to do with his getting hurt by that moto. So does Flora, who asks Harvey. Harvey doesn't really deny it, just says he had to get Watu out of Vicente's office, he saved her from that confrontation. Not really, Watu now knows how close Flora is with Sofi, and is starting to put things together. So is Sabroso, who wants Harvey to stop involving Flora in whatever his twisted plans are. Turns out Sabroso and Harvey used to be best buds, but Harvey went bad, and served time in jail. Harvey said he paid for his crime, and look, he now owns this great nightclub. And you can work here for me any time you want! He tells Sabroso, who declines.

Harvey also has a history with Susana, Flora's “manners coach”. The two were probably lovers in the past. Now he only calls when he needs something from her, which hurts her feelings. He tells her she has to pretend to be Flora's aunt in her new rich house. So when Vicente goes to the house, he's greeted by Flora's Mom Belen, pretending to be the maid, then by Susana, pretending to be Flora's aunt. Susana tells Vicente it was terrible he took advantage of Flora and almost kissed her, he's way older, and what would her friend Sofi say? But I think this is just part of Harvey's plan.

The rest of Harvey's plan is a doozy! Max dresses up as a gay guy, and meets Jhonny in the art gallery. Jhonny is played by the guy who was Efrain in Herederos del Monte, and Dr. Jose Maria Rojas in Flor Salvaje. He and Max (both wearing tight short sleeved shirts) hit it off in a gay way. Max pretends to be a sculptor, and has a large plastic “sculpture” brought into the gallery, which Jhonny likes. Later, after everybody leaves the gallery, it's like the Trojan Horse! Agua Mala is inside. He comes out, disarms the alarms, installs cameras, and sprays stuff in the air to show all the laser alarms. I guess when the Santa Helena is put in the gallery, the crew will be able to spot it, and then steal it. Maybe!!
 

LA PATRONA
Novelera, co-sign.

That is why I was happy when Gaby kicked Ale out and told him he and his porqueria family can go hang. Gaby had no need to lie to Ale. If she really was Fer's lover, she could have married him or been his side-piece and gotten money for her kid instead of working like a dog in a mine where men are sexually harassing her.

After all Tigre is in a common-law marriage with an ex-muneca Francisca. If Gaby wanted that sort of relationship with Fer, if Antonia wouldn't let her be with him, she could have done so.
 

LA PATRONA

Ctd
Also, Manuel the mine accountant who helped organize the mine rescue told Gaby he had feelings for her when she came out the mine but she put him in firm 'friend' mode. He was good-looking so I think he'll be a beau of hers especially when she's enacting her revenge. He non-creepy and earnest. I'm sad that JLP will not be the grand a or in this. Such a great actor.

J 'mind-rotting fluff' desde NYC
 

Pasión Prohibida

so how tall is Mónica Spear?
because everytime I see her with someone she is a different height,
according to her wiki page she is 5' 10", 28, 36-24-36

in Flor Salvaje she usually wore flat sandals,
but to be sexy , you need killer heels, and then they stack up her hair,

and Roberto Vander?
they didn't say his height, but it's interesting to note, he is dutch, Frans Robert Jan van der Hoek, 62,

and how tall is Jencarlos Canela?
they didn't say either,
but I was amazed at what his wiki page did say,
he has been in only 5 novelas, telemundo,
last 3 as leads, including this one, and he is very good at this as well,

so why do we care about Flavia's earring?

 

Pasion Prohibida
Earring: maybe it will end up as incriminating "evidence" at a murder scene or perhaps in someone's bed?...
Speaking of actresses, the one who plays bratty little Nina looks about 30. I am desperately wishing there was a nice big dog or a white cat in the cast...
J in Oregon

 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt1

Tom and Ali decide to help speed up dMarts release from prison. Tom says he will investigate Zeke and his X. He swears to bring Marcos to justice. dMart doesn’t want Marcos to suffer. But he has to turn Marcos in if he wants to save his sis. dMart realizes Tom and Ali had something. Caro tries to comfort Nat but to no avail. Is she bi? They learn from Ale that Pat was murdered. Marcos is angry and stumbling drunk. Zeke says he tried to protect his son. Marcos hates Zeke. Luci and Diana did the deed and Luci claims he now eternally loves Diana (Wonder how long this will last?). dMart and Alex are angry at being locked up. Layton tells them to keep their cool. dMart thinks the suspect may be the most innocent. Ali heads to the Alvarados to care for Eli, and Tom asks Zeke about Marcos. Zeke tells Tom that Martin is the killer. Layton tells dMart that Ali is the next victim. Tom tells Zeke if he refuses to testify for Martin the killer will off the remaining classmates including Luci. Fed tells Laura that they can’t see each other again. Marcos confesses to Vero and the news crew that he is the Monster Boy. dMart begs Tom to help Ali from being killed and Tom brings dMart a sexy lawyer Rafeala. Diana boards an elevator with a creepy man and the elevator breaks down.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt2

The elevators power returns and Diana flees the man chases her, and he reveals himself to be a cop. Rafa and Tom agree to investigate Marcos to free dMart. Marcos begs Vero to forgive him and fails. dMart is pissed that M arcos is being investigated thanks to Nat. Luci and Diana complain to tom about the undercover cop, but Tom says it is for their safety. The killer is so deadly he wouldn’t even leave the house for groceries! Eli tells Ali her presence scares her. Alex learns Tom is looking after Nat. Fed tells Laura he is scared of Valeria, Brat bursts in and asks if Marcos really is the Monster Boy. Fed demands to know if Marcos is the killer. Laura assures Fed she would be hurt to learn her son is a killer. Marcos is drinking at a bar when the news comes on the tv. Vero denounces Marcos. The crowd looks at Marcos and he goes ballistic. Zeke Eli and Luci watch he news as well. Luci is concerned that the news will damage the reputation of their company. Zeke is concerned about Marcos. Sonia is relieved that her son will be saved and that the broken family is now reunited. Diana cant help but feel sorry for Marcos. Nat reassures Caro that dMart is innocent. Nat is not liking Caros affection. Tom enters the house and Nat wants no part of this but Caro does! Brat and Miggy finally share a kiss (He doesn’t seem to care much about Pats death). Fed is pissed that Valeria was protecting Zekes son. “Why are you defending your daughters killer?!” he asks (Maybe because his daughter is the actual shooter).
 

Love ERDLVs new rap theme.
 

La Patrona:

Perdóname for the lack of recap over the past couple of days (my feet decided to strike, and while we're still negotiating their return to work concessions have been made), but before I settle in for last night's episode I wanted to also rag on Alejandro's plot-driven stupidity. Even allowing that Anibal and Poncia helped set the idea into his head, for him to be that uncertain that Gabriela told him the truth about being raped as opposed to his known manipulative mother, mess of a brother, and godfather was infuriating in that hand-of-God-at-work way. Not that it's anywhere near uncommon, just that it's never fun to see.

I guess David also slowly succumbing to the dark side fits here as well, though without the "You're kidding, right?" overtones.
 

LA PATRONA:

I'm enjoying this show. Here are my opinions on some of the characters:

Antonia: Strangely, I sort of like her. She's so cool, unflappable, doesn't seem deranged like so many villains. She's after money, power, status, and knows how to bide her time.

Lagarto: Now HERE's someone we can all hate. His rape/murder of Innocencia was unforgiveable.

The Senator: Again, he seems practical, flexible, not as bad as some.

Fernando: The worst. I really wish Tigre did pull that trigger. So deluded about Gaby it's almost comical. But maybe if he cleans up his image, things could change.

Max: That kid is going to be a heartthrob when he grows up, very good looking.

Fernanda: I'm in love with her. Yes, she doesn't do much, and she has that weird psychic thing, but her looks and manner are very appealing to me.

The whole Montemar family. Total losers, from the idiot mayor father, to the clueless wife, to the three daughters, Irene, Julia and Patricia. It's funny they call Julia (Fer's wife, right) the "ugly" one, as she's actually beautiful. Hmmm. But such a whiner! Irene always wears a skirt, typical villain girl. Patricia is also sexy to me, but so deluded about Alberto. Hope she finds someone else.

Alejandro and Gabriela: Who? Boring :)
 

LA PATRONA:
re Ale's plot-driven stupidity. I think he's unsure now especially since another part of Gaby's story checked out she didn't know who raped her and didn't tell her father or family about the rape. Tigre going bonkers last night showed that she's telling the truth.

I also think the main thing is that people in general think of rapists as ugly, maladjusted people who can't get sex partners who act out. If that's your running assumption covertly, it makes no sense that a rich, handsome guy like Fer would rape a girl who rejected him. Even Guerra had that assumption. When Fer told br he raped Gaby she said you could have any girl you want, why would you do that? She didn't see that Fer is like her in chasing after power in any way and his way is rape- -while Antonia kills husbands.

I think we should give David a break. He's as confused as a kid bullied about his mother and lack of father would be. Pls, lleva la sangre de un enfermo(Fer).

J desde NYC



 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

Thanks so much, NovelaMan!

I like the new rap theme too as well as the whole new framing of the show -- the intro, credits, promos, etc. It looks like they are changing the story somewhat (thankfully!) and focusing more on the present than the past.

I was thinking Tomás looked like a good candidate for THE LAST PERSON YOU'D SUSPECT.

Also, I wouldn't sell life insurance to the snooty new abogada.
 

EL SECRETARIO - Jan. 29, 2013 - episode #99:
Emilio is back at home at the apartment -- que tenura la reunion de papa y hija y Lorena y Frank y Dona Trudy. How hilarious it is to watch Mario continue to try and get a hug from Emilio. (Too funny)

Pato puts his plan of revenge into effect - he wakes his controlling wife up and shocks/scares her - he thinks since they are both at home all day long they should make the most of their time together (i.e. make love). She runs out of the room - he laughs. In the living room, she thinks she's safe, he appears before her in his underwear still wanting to be with her. She thinks he needs some cold ice water, he must have a fever and goes to the kitchen. He even enters the bathroom while she's taking a shower -- to continue his conversation.

Conde, Millie and Aguirre are at the hospital. Aguirre is getting examined by the doctor and getting a neck brace. When Aguirre sees Conde, he hides behind Millie. They argue and Millie leaves them there alone.

Felix and Copito move into Toni's place. At night, Toni falls asleep with Copito in her bed. Felix is disappointed. Next day, he tries to seduce Toni - Toni backs away and says no. Felix asks, nothing last night and now again nothing. What's the matter? Toni thinks they need to see a professional. He thinks she is talking strippers. She is mortified and says, no a professional psychiatrist for couples counseling.

Emilio calls Olga to tell her he has returned. She wonders why he didn't go to her place. His only thoughts were to see his daughter, Valentina. She is disappointed and cries uncontrollably (she said it was tears of joy).

Episode ends: Emilio, Frank and Dona Trudy are talking in the apartment. Emilio tells them about going to see Toni yesterday and finding Felix moving into her place. He has decided to give his relationship with Olga another chance and forget about his feelings/dreams of a life with Toni. Dona Trudy doesn't not like this plan at all.
 

ERDLV

NovelaMaven i kinda suspect Tom as well but im not sure. I don't know if its the actor or if its just me but i always found Paulo Quevedo to be a bit comical. Victor Mendoza was supposed to be a clown, and i even found Balbino Paiba to be a joke. He's trying to be a serious character in this and I still find him a bit humorous.
Last week i compared this novela to Amor Cautivo (apparently im the only one watching it). But i also got an MSED vibe from it. Toni freed dMart from prison the same way Manuela freed Diablo. The main villian is an elder man(Though not sure whether Zeke is as bad or even worse then Hierro). Both older men had an obsession with a younger woman.

In MSED, the actress playing Caro played an undercover cop. She mustve had plastic surgery cause she looks different and younger (At least she didnt implant her nalgas!).
Again Cristian Carabias needs more screen time.
 

EL ROSTRO

The thing about my guesses is that they are almost always wrong. :)

I'm also getting a little "Más sabe el diablo" vibe from the production which, in my opinion, is a good thing.

I watched the early episodes of Amor cautivo and thought they were quite good. But I had to cut back and that was one novela too many for me.
 

LA PATRONA

Good to hear from you, Bill C. Yep, things have turned very sour in Gaby's world.

Hombre, I actually would reverse two of your characterizations of people in the novela. I have some sympathy for Fernando. The rape was horrible. But seeing his mother kill his father warped him. And Gaby probably represented salvation for him if he could have gotten her to stay with him when they were teenagers. Plus the guy may be the best actor on the show.

And I think the Senator is 100% snake. He's all about power and money, tries to get his honorable son to falsely prosecute innocent people, will do anything crooked in cahoots with Antonia.

I also like Fernanda a lot. I'm glad Gaby got off her high horse and has accepted her as her father's partner.
 

LA MARIPOSA

Perez is constantly amusing... love him!
 

Forgot to mention the manhattan setting.
 

LA PATRONA
Tigre's partner's name is FRANCISCA, iirc. She's great...best madrastra ever. She wants Gaby as her daughter but respects her as an adult. Very interesting that she's an ex-muneca which I'm sure we'll get the back story on. All the auxiliary actors are great, even Macario, which will make the separation of Gaby and Ale bearable.

I think the writing on last night's EP was quite good in that you saw how Tigre and Francisca explained separately to David and Max the nature of rape. Tigre was direct to David about the fact his mother was raped which is why his mother didn't know who his father was and asked him if he understood what violacion means. while Francisca told Max that Fer 'le oblig'o' Gabi. As an ex-muneca that's a sensitive issue for her and she didn't even want to say the word rape but wanted Max to be supportive of his sister and for them to be united as a family.

I really thought it was great, realistic writing and interesting that the writers are letting David know outright how he came into the world thus putting some responsibility on him if he goes on the dark side.

Get well Bill C. Your recaps are hilarious.

J desde NYC
 

LA PATRONA:

Right, Francisca! I also sort of like Macario. For a henchman, he way less cartoonish than some. And of course I like Gaston, although the death of his girlfriend really knocked him for a loop. Ricardo, the well meaning prosecutor, son of Senator Anibal, is a bit boring, but he's a key to the story, as he's sort of in both worlds, the good guys and the bad guys.
 

MADE IN CARTAGENA

I think I'm going to give up on this one. I was continuing to record the episodes because of your, I'm sure, excellent recaps, Hombre. But it's piling up on my DVR, and I never get to it.
 

LA PATRONA

J desde NYC, welcome. Haven't noticed your posts before this week. Excellent comments!
 

I'm new Novelera...found you guys vis telenovela-world last week. Glad to find other mostly English tns watchers. Love La Patrona a great deal because I seem to get the Mexican accent the easiest--I'm weaning myself off the Spanish subtitles to improve my Spanish--and the story leaves me wanting more. I love the Eva recaps, too.

Also I'm reading novela lounge and folks there are tart about what happened with donde eres tu? Univision needs to do better. How do you cancel a novel a after 10 chapters.
 

The rumor AIUI is that ¿Quién eres tú? will return to UniMas's schedule at some point, but that's it. It was in a timeslot they don't normally use for novelas to begin with; whenever it does come back it'll probably be in a friendlier slot like 6pm EST or so on.
 

La Patrona: lunes

So Antonia has taken David to see Fernando at the Hospital de Jesus, not to mention dropping the little bombshell that Fer is his father. David reacts to this fairly rationally for an eight-year-old: he goes "That's not true!" and manages to hold off on running out of the room until Fer goes for a hug. That said, he runs out of the room...out of the hospital (past a slightly confused Bullethead, though Antonia orders him to let David go--"the secret is out")...and across town, shouting mentira! along the way, and nearly getting hit by a car in the process.

At Casa del Suarez Tigre is still furious about finding out Fer's Gabriela's baby daddy, let alone how. Gaby explains to him and Francisca that she didn't know who it was that raped her at the time, that she was a scared teenager and afraid of disappointing him, and that her plan then was just to forget it happened...up until she got pregnant. Captain Lou is all bitch-gonna-die about Fer, though Gaby wants him not to do anything; another reason she didn't tell him was because she knew he'd go after whomever did it. CL gives Gaby a big bear hug and a tearful perdóname for misjudging her back then before shifting back into bitch-gonna-die mode; how could Fer do that to a young girl?

Gaby notes talking to him won't help, since he's definitely enfermo; CL skips that and goes straight to calling him tan macabro like his mother. Gaby reminds him that all she cares about at this point is David; CL notes he cares about his grandson too, which is why he's declaring war on los Beltran, before they get a call from Max...on the house phone, which never actually rings...explaining that he saw David with Antonia. Fran worries that Antonia might try to turn him against Gaby (ding!), though Gaby notes she's probably just trying to get close to him because he's her nieto (no, wait, you're both right!).

At the same time, over at the Hotel San Pedro, Ale is grumping to Irene about how it feels like Gaby cheated on him with Fer, how she probably didn't tell him about the whole thing to keep him, and I really want to ignore the stupid on display here. But Irene is rocking this utterly blatant "Mission accomplished!" smirk while saying all the expected friend things like "I understand her...it can't be easy to tell the man you love you had a child with his brother." Ale refers to the whole thing as a nightmare, that not only did his lady sleep with his brother but have a son--wait. Yes, idiot, you did forget about Julia making off with David two episodes ago...oh, there he goes to try and find him, with a brief explanation to Irene on his way out. Irene is "Dammit, so close!" impactada at that.

Back at the hospital, Antonia is urging Fer to be patient about David; she's winning him over, but Fer can't be doing anything foolish. Fer of course is all "Screw patience, I want my son! What if Gaby turns him against me?" Antonia notes that Gaby doesn't have any proof that he raped her, and the fact that she carried a pregnancy from rape to term rather than ending it works in his favor as well; any potential judge would think Gaby had David because she either loved or wanted to manipulate Fer. Heck, Antonia was even able to make Ale uncertain about the whole thing. Fer's sanity manifests for exactly a second and a half at this point and goes "But that's not the truth"; since it's Fer's word against Gaby's, the Ice Queen declares, the only truth that has to be sustained is that Gabriela Suarez slept with him voluntarily. Fer agrees with that. I'm wishing the hospital room would just %#$!%#% explode.
 

La Patrona: lunes (p. 2)

Meanwhile, Max catches up with David on a curb. They talk a little before heading over to Lucia Suarez's grave, where David tells him about Antonia and Fer being his dad (Max: "No wonder she gave you that laptop"). David notes he was and is still freaked out by the suddenness of the whole thing; Max wonders if Antonia and Fer could be lying, and David doesn't know. If Fer is his dad, why wasn't he told before now?

David naturally goes straight to the only course of action that makes sense: he'll leave town. Max gets him to stay put until he goes home and gets some money, so that they can run away together; he goes home and catches Gaby and a shotgun-wielding CL outside, and explains what's up with David and what Antonia told him. Gaby is impactada all over again, though CL urges her to cálmate before they head off to meet David. When they get to him David has to bitchface Max the traitor for ratting him out and call Mom a liar before Gaby apologizes to him for not giving him the home he'd always wanted and for keeping things from him. She then insists that no matter what happens nobody else will love her "miracle" like her.

David then outright asks if Fer is his father. When Gaby says it appears that way he then goes "How could you not know?" and Gaby's subsequent "It's complicated; you're not ready to hear this..." attempt only makes it worse; his father's been in town all this time and he never knew? When he calls her a liar again CL pops up and demands he respect his mother, and then declares that if he's going to insist on being man enough to judge his mother he's man enough to know what happened. And so CL tells him his mother was violated (over Gaby's objections), that she loves him so much it didn't matter how he came to be, and that the "ungrateful little brat" needs to apologize to her RFN. Gaby gets a hug from David after that, but unsurprisingly no apology.

Ale shows up at CDS in the middle of this and runs into Fran (and a little later Max), wondering if David's okay. Fran is pretty chilly to the patron, since he's turned out to be just like the rest of his family and doesn't believe that Gaby was raped, et cetera FF>>>

La Dorada: Antonia comes home with Fer in tow; Fer resists her urgings to go lie down and instead goes off to check on his horse, which is pregnant. Antonia is told by a servant (I think it's Esperanza, who we've seen before) that Anibal and some other guys are waiting in the study before encountering Bullethead, who asks what they should do with el paque (the package); Antonia gets her evil chuckle on as she instructs him to "let her be scared."

It turns out Julio, Anibal and Lizardo are the ones waiting for her--we next see her advising them that she wants Fer protected 24/7 until they can get rid of los Suarez. Julio's okay with that, though he wonders what Fer has to do with that Suarez rabble; Antonia replies that Gaby will accuse him of rape, although of course that's a lie. No, she'll claim that to cover her "secret" that she and Fer were lovers...oh, and David's their love child. Julio doesn't bat an eye at that, though he does wonder what that makes Julia; Antonia doesn't reply "live-in hostage," but instead says it doesn't change her position as Fer's wife and future stepmother.

Out in the stables Fer is reassuring the aforementioned horse that soon it will be with its child, just as it should be--just like it will be with him and Gaby and David. Fer's attention is drawn away by a bottle of booze left nearby, but then he gets distracted by an "Mmmf!" from another stable...yup, there's el paque Julia tied up and gagged.
 

La Patrona: lunes (p. 3)

Fer briefly threatens Julia with a pocketknife before pulling her gag and asking what the crazy girl wanted to accomplish by kidnapping David; did she want to kill him? Does she want to kill Fer? Julia, in turn, declares that she's indeed crazy...for ever wanting to marry him, that is. She then goes into the standard rant for this situation--he's his mother's puppet, she must have been crazy to love him, he was terrible in bed, he's so messed up he probably pictured his mother watching them getting it on, and so on. Combined with about three cállate!s and Fer going pow to her gut this Lifetime TV-movie moment is interrupted by Antonia popping up and demanding Julia stop her yelling. Julia gasps that Fer hit her, and the Ice Queen's inevitably bitchy response is "That's what you get for disrespecting your husband. I hope you've learned your lesson." (And killing your husbands wasn't disrespecting them? Can someone just drop an asteroid on this place?)

Antonia follows that up with more of the usual--Julia's not pretty, not smart, not fertile, and if she divorced Fer who would have her? Bizarre analogy: Julia is a lovely glass casserole dish, Antonia is a Brillo pad, and Fer is one of those green scrubbing pads. Fer notes that he wants a divorce, and the Ice Queen tells him he's wrong; for now, he needs to appear as a loving family man with his devoted marida on his arm. Julia insists that she wants out of the marriage as well, but Antonia isn't affected--but she does "allow" them to sleep in separate bedrooms. Down the line, she says, they can talk about divorce...don't worry, Julia will make out handsomely...just not now. Antonia then leaves Fer to untie Julia and quietly orders a lurking Bullethead (what is he, a ninja?) to watch Julia; she doesn't want her becoming a threat. Since this show seems to be following the villains-rack-up-wins-first rule, I don't think anybody believes that one's possible.

CDS: Max is still trying to figure out the whole David-Fer-Gaby thing. Fran ends up telling him Fer forced himself on Gaby, and when he inevitably tries to run off to stick up for her she insists he stay; he's just a kid, Gaby doesn't need to feel worse than she does...the family could use some peace.

Back at the cemetery, while heading back to his truck, CL is telling David that crying over all this is okay, that it won't make him less of a man...not like those desgraciados who don't respect women, such as Fer. Gaby asks him to stop saying stuff like that; CL is all "There's more evil in the world than good," and that David will understand one day when he has a daughter of his own to protect. CL then wonders what kind of father he was since he couldn't protect Gaby; Gaby insists they forget this ever happened, which prompts David in turn to wonder why she ever had him. Gaby explains that thanks to him she learned that evil "can be cured with love," the biggest love that can exist--her love for him. CL urges David to be proud of his mother, who again calls him her miracle while declaring that this is the last time she wants to talk about all this (fat chance, girl), and I'm frigging shocked as David busts out a non-stone/bitchface expression for the ensuing group hug...okay, he looked like a crying squirrel when he was running through town earlier.

Anyway, they go back to CDS where Ale has been patiently waiting outside. CL goes to his room and talks to Fran, who's surprised he left Gaby outside with Ale; the family's been through enough for today, according to CL. He then gets Fran to go make dinner, and after she leaves flashbacks to Gaby telling him about the rape. I think dinner is out.
 

La Patrona: lunes (p. 4)

David also goes inside and...yep, there's the bitchface as he blasts traidor Max for squealing on him. Max tries to appeal to him by saying his mother was hurting and needed to be told; doesn't he care about that? David insists that everybody lies to him, that they keep treating him like an idiot (we're all thinking what goes here) and that he doesn't believe anybody any more. If this was La casa de al lado David would have been kidnapped by now and we'd all be better off, but that's just me.

And outside Gaby is putting Ale on blast for believing Fer over her, for daring to say he was worried about her son...I think there's a "Never come here again" in here somewhere, too... FF>>>

A little later Fran is bringing CL some food...wait, he's not in his room? But she didn't hear or see him leave...oh, he just went out the window (without disturbing the flower bed outside). Fran freaks and goes to Gaby, who's flashbacking in her room to David calling her a liar and her first time with Ale among other things, and tells her CL bailed--and apparently took the shotgun with him. The last time we saw it was outside before he and Gaby went off to meet David, so I'll take it.

LD: La Dorada apparently has a second entrance with a gate; we see CL scooting through the woods around it before getting to the main entrance (the dirt road), which now has a couple of guys guarding it. CL takes advantage of a maid bringing them a snack to sneak past them, complete with duck-behind-something-when-they-look gag, and onto the grounds.

Inside Fer is bitching to Poncia about how Mom won't get her way this time--he'll run off with Gaby and David when her goons aren't watching him. Poncia wonders why he escaped from rehab in the first place; Fer says he didn't do it to stay with Julia, but to get Gaby back. Poncia's smarter than she looks: "Who told you about your brother's wedding?" That's not important, according to Fer; he has a chance to be happy, and to finally win "the war" with Ale. Poncia incorrectly chalks this up to Fer's rivalry with Ale, but Fer sets her straight along with ten thousand cuckoo clocks--it's about Gaby, whom he loves and knows will accept him once he gets her to cross the thin line between love and hate. Yes, Poncia, this is the face of crazy.

Over in the study Antonia, Julio, and Julia are talking. Rather, Julia is reassuring Julio (at Antonia's urging) that Fer's child with Gaby doesn't bother her, since it happened before Fer got together with her. Julia only barely manages to look "okay" for this.

Quinta las Princesas: Irene has popped in and, when she sees Patty checking her cellphone for messages, correctly guesses she's looking for messages from her mysterious boyfriend. Irene then suggests that perhaps the guy has another woman on the side--no, wait, it's Patty who's the other woman! Patty initially denies this, and a conveniently timed (booty) call from Alberto allows her to throw her relationship in Irene's face--"I've got a boyfriend, and you're getting Gaby's leftovers"--before heading out. It's the Great job! thumbs-up Patty throws at Irene and Irene's subsequent bitchface that make this the highlight of my day.
 

La Patrona: lunes (p. 5)

Patty makes a beeline for the Hotel San Pedro, where Alberto is waiting. Alberto wants to just get down to it, but Patty's tired of only ever seeing him in bed; she wants her novio to, well, listen to her. Alberto is thus all "Okay, then, let's talk about you and your family...hey, how about Antonia Guerra?" Even Patty is kind of WTH about that one, but it doesn't last very long before Alberto is all "I love you, baby" and dragging her off to bed.

Afterwards Alberto asks her again about Antonia, but is distracted by a bathroom break. Patty remembers what Irene said about her being his other woman and grabs his Blackberry--oh, there are a lot of calls from Antonia on it. (At least one is dated 12/7/2004, which is very loosely consistent with the newspaper we saw after Pascual Duarte was killed.) Patty considers this; either Alberto's employee of the year, or...?

LD: Gaby pulls up to the gate entrance in her jeep (Ale shows up in his a minute later) and starts yelling to be let in. Bullethead--God, he is a ninja--checks in with Antonia by phone and lets Gaby in, though he blocks her from going anywhere until Antonia shows up. Gaby then declares that they have to stop her father before a "tragedy" occurs.

This of course is simultaneous with CL making it into Fer's bedroom, where he's napping, waking him up with his shotgun, and giving the standard "You thought you could get away with this?" spiel. Fer for his part manages to stay crazy in the face of this...he manages to beg for forgiveness while declaring that he can "repair the damage he caused" by just marrying Gaby. CL is not impressed, though the delay gives Gaby and Antonia enough time to show up; Antonia puts herself between CL and Fer, while Gaby and then Ale try to talk her dad down from homicide.

Lizardo, who's in the study with Julio and Julia, goes to join the party with Julio. Julia stays behind, closes the study doors, and searches Antonia's desk until she finds the revolver Fer formerly had...but where are the bullets? She needs the bullets! But Bullethead has the bullets! Bullethead apparently also has teleportation technology!

And Ale and Gaby do manage to talk CL into lowering his shotgun--which is naturally Antonia's cue to order Lizardo and a couple of officers to grab him and arrest him. Gaby for once has the perfect retort: if her father's going to be arrested for attempted murder, than Fer has to be arrested for rape--what's it going to be? Can we choose (d)?
 

LA PATRONA:
Thanks Bill C for the recap-so much happened in episodio de lunes. Antonia was especially vile in basically saying Julia deserved to be hit.

And in the name of all dear in the world could someone stop Sra. montemar from wearing bubble-gum pink lipstick? That look went out when Kim Catrall was in 'Mannequin '
 

MADE IN CARTAGENA, Martes

Agua Mala spends the night in the gallery. I think they were hoping the Santa Helena would be delivered there, but it wasn't. And Harvey is mad at Max, since he hasn't returned any phone calls. So in the morning, Harvey instructs Agua Mala to knock over “Max's” plastic sculpture, which sets off the alarm. Agua Mala slips out before anyone arrives. When Max and Jhonny get there, they see the sculpture on its side. Max pretends to be mad that this gallery couldn't protect his work of art, and leaves. He later tells the crew that he and Jhonny got drunk and fell asleep, but nothing happened, and Jhonny's a good guy (and his cell phone battery died). The others make fun of him, and tell him they don't believe him. Later, Mireya takes Agua Mala aside, and says “Maybe Max is the snitch”. They're going to try to trap him. In the meantime, they've duplicated the laser beam alarm array with string in their hideout, and Mireya is practicing dodging the lasers, the way we've seen in several movies.

Sofi doesn't want her Dad to see the bruises on her face from that drug dealer, so she spends the night at Flora's place. Flora is surprised that Susana is now her “aunt”, but plays along. There are a few close calls with Belen almost forgetting she's supposed to be the maid. Matilde comes over the house, and shows Sofi the drugs she found. She asks if they're Flora's. Flora is speechless. Matilde then asks if they're Sofi's. Sofi says neither, they belong to her friend Liliana, and they're just “holding” them for her. (Right, that story is as old as the hills, and I don't think Matilde is convinced). Later, Sofi calls Marco, and asks him to back up her story.

Vicente also shows up at Flora's and asks her to forgive him for almost kissing her (she does). Sofi is out of the room at this point, but finds out Vicente was there, and asks Flora what he was doing there. Flora covers, says Vicente just wanted me to look after you.

Celina is taking care of Sabroso, as requested by Watu. Watu calls Vicente to give him his prize from the raffle, and Vicente doesn't want a prize, but agrees to come to the beach and see the dance building they've built. He and Watu have a nice talk, and then they take a walk to see Sabroso, since Watu says Sabroso wants to thank Vicente, too. They run into Harvey, who joins their walk. Harvey HATES Vicente, thinking he killed his son Robinson, and asks him some double edged questions, but Vicente doesn't realize what's going on. Meanwhile, Flora has arrived to see Sabroso, and on her way out, she sees Watusi, Vicente and Harvey heading right towards her!
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt1

Fed wants to know why Vale defended Zekes daughter but the next morning she said she did it out of love for Zeke. Ali and Laura ponder why Vale would defend Marcos. dMarts gets another visitor in prison. Its Marcos Luci is angered at Vero for defaming Marcos live on tv. Marcos wishes he could take dMarts place. Luci goes to the Mercaders. Laura asks Valeria why she was willing to protect Marcos. Vale confirms to Laura that she paid a nurse to kill Ramon. Laura later overhears Braterinas phone sex with Miggy. Layton deduces that Marcos is the killer. Marcos is confronted by news reporters and an angry mob. Ali is summoned to Zekes office and he tells her his company is losing clients. He then gives her a gun telling her to kill him for revenge.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt2
Marcos heads for Zekes office. Eli hears a gunshot but no one is hurt. When she asks what happened, Marcos replies that Zeke was playing with guns, and his gun collection caused Marcos to go postal. Dmart and Alex doubt Layton at first, but soon realize he may be right about Marcos. Laura asks Brat again if she made up the pregnancy. Like before Brat denies this. Marcos blames his da d for all his problems. dMart is sent back to the regular cell and Layton wishes he met Marcos. Ali wants to have a talk with Marcos. Ali tells him she is the professors daughter. Marcos asks if she hates him. She says she doesn’t. If she and dMart can forgive Marcos he should do the same. Vero cant forgive Marcos but it seems she can’t stop loving him either. Moreira swears revenge on dMarts.
 

LA PATRONA

Thanks for the terrific recap, Bill. Unfortunately Gaby's ultimatum didn't work as El Tigre got thrown in the slammer last night.

Alejandro appears to now believe Gaby but says that there's no hope for them because she had his lunatic brother's child. Too little, too late, bud!

They need to have some other plot developments than the cabal of Antonia, the Senator, and the Mayor constantly meeting and plotting against the Suarez. That actor who plays the Mayor is particularly lame.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

NovelaMan, I stopped watching this a while ago but would like to sort of follow it through your recaps.

Would it be possible to post a little cheat sheet to the nicknames you use? I don't know or can't remember who Fed, Ali, Eli and Layton are.
 

PASIÓN PROHIBIDA

I can't stand the gossipy servant scenes. They're straight out of the Univisión playbook and bore me to tears.

Flavia is just full-out, full-time rotten. She's putting cucarachas in the head of poor Penelope about her sister Bianca not telling her about the pre-wedding extortion. She outright insults the manhood of her admittedly weak tea yerno Nicolás. The word harpía was made for her.

And the guy playing Guillermo Arredondo is another scenery chewer, way over the top in his anger about the $1 million bucks. He actually took away his only child's only car!

Now that Guillermo has had his "little chat" with Bruno, I suppose Bianca will fall under suspicion of also being a golddigger.

Gee, I hope they don't go with Ariel and Bianca never consummating their marriage so that she can end up with Bruno good as new! The writers' efforts to avoid the female protagonists having sex with husbands they don't love are tiresome in the extreme.
 

LA PATRONA

Ale's prob isn't believing Gaby, it's the 'ick' factor of being with a woman his brother raped and impregnated. He needs an escape hatch, which is why Ale's gonna end up being the Senator's or somebody else's son. That's the deus ex machina to get out of the eew, incestuous factor.

The actor who plays the mayor is horrible. He's not even going through the motions.

David endeared himself to me last night when he stoned Fer and told him 'I'm not your son' and told his mother she shouldn't apologize to him, that he should apologize to her for coming in the world thru violacion. He seems to be trying to cope with the idea the best he knows how and wants him family to tell him hard truths. how.
 

PASIÓN PROHIBIDA

novelera - I'm really hoping Ariel (why oh why couldn't they have cast even just a slightly more attractive old man)would croak soon, but it's highly doubtful. He was so awkward when they were making out. I was cringing.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

Hi Novelera:

Since NovelaMan has been nice enough to recap, let me see if I can give you a guide to the abbreviations:

Fed = Federico Samaniego
Zeke = Ezequiel Alvarado
Vale = Valeria Samaniego
Laura = Ezequiel's wife, thought to be dead
Marcos = youngest Alvarado child

Luci = Luciano Alvarado
Vero = Verónica, the TV reporter
Ramón = R. Farias, the teacher
Miggy = Miguel Angel Samaniego
Layton = psychopathic killer who helps Martín figure out what a crazy would do next.
Ali = Alicia Ferrer, the nurse and the late Farias's daughter
Eli = Eliana, Ezequiel's mother
Brat, Braterina = Katerina Alvarado
Alex = Martín's best friend, now in jail for his part in abducting Luciano
Nat = Natalia, Alex's wife
Pat = Patricia, the Colombian actress, murdered by someone tampering with stage ceiling fixture.
Moreira = bullying thug in prison with Martín and Alex.
Tom = Tomás Buenaventura, police captain and sex addict (!)
Caro = Carolina, classmate
Rafa = Rafaela, new lawyer for Martín
and of course:
Diana = Diego's sister, D. Mercader

Is that everyone?

 

EL ROSTRO

Thanks a million, NovelaMaven. I'll be referring to this often!
 

EL ROSTRO

De nada, Novelera. Mi adicción es tu adicción. :)
 

La Patrona: martes, or

Flames On The Side Of My Face *

* I've never been crazy about the idea of novelas that front-load the bad guys' victories (see also La fuerza del destino), so that plus Antonia's nonstop bitchy iciness plus the events of this episode equals this.

This episode's quasi-refrito is of Gabriela challenging Antonia: you have my father arrested, I'll have Fernando arrested. The Ice Queen calls that bluff; the very next thing we see is Lagarto and his deputies escorting Tigre to La Dorada's foyer with Gaby demanding they let him go, Alejandro piping up on their behalf, Antonia bitchily calling them savages, Julio declaring it's his duty as mayor to make examples of them, and...oh, forget this, our blood pressure's going to be high enough later. FF>>

In the study Julia is telling Bullethead (one of the study doors is actually open, we see indrectly--more evidence that Bullethead is a ninja) how she "coincidentally" came across that revolver while "looking for some documents." Bullethead recommends that, if she's coincidentally thinking about going after a Beltran, she should obtain another gun--that one's out of bullets, after all. Julia then tries to get her bitch on--she hasn't forgotten how he tied her up like an animal, so he'd better stop following her. He's nothing and she's the mayor's daughter, not to mention still being Fer's wife. Bullethead is not impressed, as per contract, and after Julia walks out he picks up the revolver with a bandanna. Smart evil henchman.

Julia ends up near the foyer watching the tail end of the shouting match between Gaby and Antonia (accompanied by Fer looking guilty as hell in places), which is mostly Antonia maintaining the it-was-consensual lie while inevitably insulting Gaby's character. Antonia does ask why she didn't abort her pregnancy, though, and Gaby responds that she's a mother too--didn't she feel anything when she first felt that new life inside her? Even animals protect their young! (That's just it. You're arguing with an evil cyborg Janet from Three's Company, girl, not a normal human being.) The result of all this is inevitable, though--Captain Lou is dragged out, stuffed into a patrol car, and driven off with his declaring "This town needs real justice!" and a crying Gaby declaring to an apologetic Ale that his family is the worst thing that ever happened to her. But she swears it's not over before hopping in her jeep and bailing.

Back inside, Julio is all over Antonia's metaphorical jock--locking up CL was the right thing to do, and the most important thing is Fer's safety. Antonia of course is all "Screw that, I'll destroy them" as Julio notices Julia, making herself known after CL "left." And that's right before Ale comes back in and goes "Yoooouuuu!" at Fer; he understands exactly why CL did what he did, and Fer said nothing? Did he really rape Gaby? Antonia stops Ale from machoing up some more on Fer, declaring that he'll have to hit her first (hitting women is bad, but...it's Antonia Guerra!), and Fer finally pipes up with the party line: they were young and in love, Gaby is lying, and he never wanted Ale with her because of the embarrassment of knowing she had slept with him first. (Antonia: "See? She hid it from you! Slut!") Even Fer's guilty/WTF looks when Antonia is slamming Gaby don't help at all here.
 

La Patrona: martes (p. 2)

SPDO: we go to the Hotel San Pedro after this, where Patty is having another "Honey, why are we keeping our relationship a secret?" moment with Alberto. Alberto dares to play the reserved-about-his-personal-life card; Patty semi-randomly wonders aloud how he refers to Antonia--doña, señora, jefa...? Alberto tells her the usual patrona and starts nibbling on her back to distract her. Urg.

Over at the jail CL is being escorted into the usual cell by Lizardo and friends; Lizardo officially welcomes him with pows to the gut and the face. CL is all "You're lucky you're on the other side of these bars!" before screwing with my head as he shouts that that's why they call Lagarto Lagarto; he's an animal that's rastrero (this translates as ether creeping or despicable, and CC3 says he "slithers"; there's no wrong choice here). Lizardo retorts that either way they're both animals before heading out.

And out at Cantarranas Anibal takes a call from Antonia demanding he come out to LD, though she doesn't tell him exactly what happened. He agrees to come out right before a maid pops up to advise him that a woman, Dr. Aguirre, is there to see him; Anibal wonders what she's doing there, but has her shown in.

So Gertrudis Aguirre, a creepy lady who looks kind of like an emaciated Veronica Castro, meets Anibal in his study. It's here that we find out that she's a psychiatrist of long acquaintance--long enough, as she puts it, for her to have proven her loyalty to him. Anibal is all "Yeah, yeah--you're not going to blackmail me, woman"; Dr. Creepy notes that of course nobody's blackmailing him. Who would ever do that? Anibal laughs that off--of course she came to him for money. She simply replies that she's there to bring him information...and she hands him an envelope of pictures. Anibal flips through them (we don't get to see them) and wonders if she brought them to him so he would be "found out"; of course not, goes Dr. Creepy. It's just been months since she's received anything from him, and as he can tell from the pictures it's unpleasant dealing with "mentally ill people" (quotes deliberate). Not to mention expensive, between food and medicine and baths and discretion...yeah, Anibal's grumpily writing Zombie Veronica a check. I have a feeling we'll be seeing her again.

La Dorada: Julia rushes into her and Fer's bedroom and starts loading clothes into a suitcase. She says she wants to be away from him and his "drunken smell" before asking if he really believes that that damn minera will really love him? Fer goes "None of your business!" to that, and Julia gets her righteous indignation on: the man she wanted to spend her life with, that she wanted to have children with, turned out to be a rapist. When Fer tries to toe the party line on that she retorts that she gets it, that it's not about love with Gaby--it's about him somehow punishing his mother for the "sick" relationship they have. (One out of two ain't bad.) Anyway, she's out of this marriage--and good luck with the Gaby thing, since no doubt she'll only ever be disgusted by him--"no normal woman could ever forgive her rapist!"

Fer throws her suitcase into the hall for that, complete with a lárgate! before he threatens to kill her with his bare hands. She dares him to, since that'd damn sure end this marriage that's so convenient for him and Mom. And Julia's family, Fer reminds her--they're using you too! And that conversation augers into the ground--"You disgust me!" "I hate you for being spineless!"
 

La Patrona: martes (p. 3)

Antonia and Bullethead are listening to all this from the study; Antonia remarks that she's tired of that "madwoman" before Bullethead produces the revolver Julia had had earlier. This amuses the Ice Queen; if Julia likes playing with fire, perhaps she can use that (and Julia's fingerprints on the gun) to her advantage. She orders Bullethead to hide the gun somewhere safe right before Anibal finally shows up, and Antonia tells him that since the situation will likely end up with him sooner or later...CL tried to kill Fer, and Gaby's accusing him of rape. And that means

Law & Order: San Pedro: at Casa del Suarez Gaby is filling Francisca in on CL's arrest. Fran says that that's what they wanted, to lock him up and torture him so he'd tell them...oooops, she's saying that out loud to Gaby...uhhh, tell them that he's leaving SPDO with Gaby! Gaby's pissed, so she accepts that; before they leave, no doubt Antonia and Fer will try to take David from her. Gaby decides to keep her word about having Fer arrested, though Fran correctly notes the police is in cahoots with Antonia; they both head out, since Fran knows Gaby's just like her old man and will need controlling.

Fran convinces Gaby to go to Radio San Pedro and talk to Gaston about the whole thing (Gaston notes this was apparently why CL didn't make it to see him before they were to leave for Mexico City to "denounce the abuse of power in this town"). Gaby notes she wants to file a complaint against Fer, and Gaston confirms she'd be wasting her time if she went to the police...Lagarto Chacon (Julio's called him Chacon a few times, so it's presumably his last name) is bought and paid for by Antonia. But she can go to the D.A., Ricardo Villegas. Fran is skeptical, since he's Anibal's son, but Gaston sticks up for him; he's the man who got him released when he was accused of Inocencia's murder, after all.

Ricardo, at this point, is in his office listening to Ale relate the morning's events. More accurately, Ale is waxing poetic about how fearless Gaby was when facing his mother, how dignified she was even while admitting to being raped in front of the police...which she did to save her father, and to get to "the truth." Ricardo, naturally, has to ask: "So you believe that Fer raped her?"

Ale's response to this is that it doesn't matter--even if it were true and she forgave him for doubting her, which he claims is impossible, how could he have a relationship with the woman his brother raped? Let alone her son, who would be his stepson and nephew...he can't do that to him. (Relatively sane compared to what came before...I'll allow it.) This of course is where Fran and Gaby show up, and Gaby declares that she wants to report a rape. Ale exits at this point, noting that Gaby has every right to do this, and once he's gone Ricardo asks Gaby why she didn't file a report with the police first; because it's Fernando Beltran, Gaby replies, and Antonia has too much influence over the cops. But a friend told her that Ricardo was a honest man who didn't care who was whom before the law...is he? Can he be just?

Gaby then explains to Ricardo about her rape. Ricardo asks the same questions Antonia basically did, but gentler--why she waited so long to report it (she didn't know who he was, his face was covered) and how she know it was him (the pregnancy and the unauthorized DNA test). Ricardo notes that that doesn't prove Fer raped her, which Fran isn't crazy about hearing, but he explains they they have to be clear about all this. Gaby understands, though, and declares that she's willing to see this through to the end...she's telling the truth. Ricardo agrees to take Gaby's statement and begin an investigation.
 

La Patrona: martes (p. 4)

On the way out of his office Gaby runs into Ale, and she's all "Stay away from me. We're over." That gets her a yo sé from Ale, who says he'll do whatever he can to get CL out of jail. Gaby would rather he didn't--the last thing she wants is to owe a Beltran anything--and she stomps off. Plot-induced stupidity, no matter how well implemented/patched over, never looks good on characters...and it's looking horrible on Ale.

Ricardo, meanwhile, heads for La Dorada that evening and advises her that he's calling her, Fer, Ale and Poncia to testify/make statements as part of his investigation. Antonia's not happy about being called like a common criminal--is he really going to do this to them, his family? Ricardo sticks to his guns; Gaby filed a report, so he has to investigate. Antonia, as usual, responds in the voice of entitlement: he shouldn't have taken the report, since of course Fer couldn't have raped her--no, she probably just wants money. Which kind of proves Ricardo's point; that's why he has to investigate. Antonia tries to play the family card again after this, but our blood pressure's high enough. FF>>>

The following day we're back in Ricardo's office as he asks Poncia if she knew Gaby back in the day. Poncia replies that she knew Gaby from church, and that Fer was sweet on her; she mentions that Fer would happily go off to see her and come back depressed. Ricardo wonders if that was because Gaby rejected him, and Poncia is all "Hmm, could be...but I don't know for sure."

Outside Irene and Fer are waiting their turns with Antonia. Irene bitches about how she should already be giving her statement, Antonia bitches that that estúpida better not screw up...and here's the estúpida now, saying she's done and it's now Irene's turn. Irene flounces into his office, while Poncia clarifies that she said what she had to--no more, no less. The Ice Queen orders her to watch her tone--remember, she's (wait for it...) la patrona. Poncia frostily replies "How could I forget, patrona?" and heads out; Antonia heads out as well after reassuring Fer that he just needs to stay sober and stick to the party line.

Ricardo, meanwhile, asks Irene if Fer and Gaby had a romantic relationship. Irene lies her round little ass off--well, she promised Gaby she wouldn't ever tell, but...yes, they were in love! And they were intimate!

When it's Fer's turn, the version of the basic question he gets is "Is it true that you were involved with Gabriela Suarez when she was a minor?" Fer says that yes, they were involved when he was in college and she was in boarding school. Ricardo notes that it could be worse for him, having been involved with a minor; Fer reiterates that they loved each other, that he never forced her to have sex with him or forced himself on her. When Ricardo asks him why she stayed away from him, why she hates him now, he gets skittish--he had no idea what happened, and everything was just fine until Gaby suddenly rejected him. But of course it wasn't his fault, it was hers for ruining everything...everything...and on that note Fer just up and leaves, with Ricardo looking confusedly impactado.

Gaby shows up after all of this, wondering if there's hope for Fer paying for his misdeed. Ricardo gives her the bad news: she never filed a police report, there's no gynecological exam to back up her story--oh, and a witness confirmed that she and Fer had had consensual sex. Namely her friend, Irene. Gaby is suitably impactada at that, declaring it a damn dirty mentira! (I guess I have to do this one: with friends like that, who needs enemies?)
 

La Patrona: martes (p. 5)

Gaby ultimately ends up telling CL about this, and he declares that the complaint was useless because they didn't have money...but he's going to fix that PDQ. Gaby again wonders what he's talking about, and CL says he'll tell her once he's out of jail...the walls have ears. I'll be amazed if that happens.

CDS: that night Fran and Gaby make quesadillas for David and Max while trying to be all cheerful and whatnot, complete with talking about registering them for SPDO's local soccer team. That lasts perhaps forty seconds before Max goes "Don't you remember Dad's in jail?"; David follows that up by blaming Mom, of course, and running upstairs. Gaby follows him, and he admits that the whole thing is a mess--his grandfather's in jail, his dad's a drunk, and while he'd always dreamed of having a father to do things with like the other kids in town...what if he turned out to be a rapist like his father?

Gaby tells him to never say that again--he's mi corazon, he gave her a reason to go on. David can't go two minutes without calling someone a liar, so that goes here; when Gaby asks him to forgive her, though, he totally channels Dad and says he should be asking her forgiveness for having been born. Why didn't she abandon him? Why did she keep him? Gaby's response is simply because she loves him, ever since the first time she held him in her arms and sang to him...and she embraces him and rocks back and forth, humming. I'm placing the over/under on this batch of goodwill for David at two episodes.

The next day Gaby and Fran visit CL in jail. He's still defiant about getting out to protect the clan, and advises Gaby to not let los Beltran walk all over her; Gaby tells him she reported the rape, which makes him happy enough to enjoy the breakfast Fran brought her "old coot."

Out at the mine Manuel is bringing a grumpy Ale up to speed on some requisitions that need to be authorized, though Ale initially is all "Screw this, I've got bigger issues to deal with." Manuel brings him around by commenting that if he doesn't sign off on them it'll have to be that "worthless" Alberto who does it.

Mr. Punchable Face is over in his office when Antonia shows up. Antonia briefly mentions Fer giving his statement, but it's largely just her rebuffing his advances up until he gets a call--from Patty. Naturally he ain't answering that one, since "nobody else matters" when he's with Antonia.

Antonia heads over to see Ale after that, commenting on how he's showing an interest in the family business again. Ale grumps that somebody has to, or else the place will be just as much of a trainwreck as his life is; Antonia urges him to cheer up, things will turn out just fine. Ale then notes that she shouldn't have sent CL to jail; any father whose daughter had been raped would have done the same thing. Antonia remarks that Ale has to open his eyes--it was consensual, there was no crime; "Were you there?" he retorts, "how could you know?" Antonia notes she wasn't there when Columbus discovered America either, but she knows that happened; when Ale snipes at her over that one, she drops the bomb that Ricardo's investigation confirmed that Gaby is lying.
 

La Patrona: martes (p. 6)

SPDO: Fer is out at the grave of Marcos Beltran, d. 1995, and I think this is a major prop screwup--assuming the 2004 dates we've seen are correct in-show, 1995 should be the year Fer raped Gaby and Marcos should have been long since dead...ahem. Fer is there wishing his dad was still alive so he could talk to him, since he always knew what to say. And he has a rather pleasant flashback to him as a child and his dad watching a pregnant mare; young Fer asks how he can tell it's a mare, and Marcos notes that "females are prettier." Their beauty is all on the inside--unlike men, who are all about the outside (though Marcos whimsically notes that's why men can pee anywhere--and he and Fer do just that behind a wall).

Young Fer asks if there's anything else that men can do, and the long dead Marcos gives me another reason to want Antonia dead as he simply says that they can love women, create lives with them...and in the present Fer smiles at the memory, but then realizes that's nothing like what he did to Gaby. And Dad wouldn't approve, either. "I'm a monster!" Fer heads out to his SUV, hops in--and hears Gaston, back on Radio San Pedro, talking about a rapist on the loose in SPDO "hiding behind his money and power." Sucks to be you, Fernando Beltran.

Meanwhile Ale is over at Ricardo's office, blasting the town full of "garbage" and him for his so-called investigation. Ricardo relates the same basic points he gave Gaby, and that while it was hard for him to remain objective he just couldn't prove anything beyond an apparently consensual relationship. Ale notes that perhaps he "decided too soon," presumably about not believing Gaby; I'll still allow it, though as others have said it's still too little too late.

Quick detour to CDS, where Fran's freaking out about that black cloud she sensed over los Suarez--something terrible's going to happen, she's sure of it. Gaby insists that they won't let anything happen, and that they both need to be strong and calm for their kids.

And at that point David and Max are getting out of school for the day. David heads off for a soccer match he's to play in, but is intercepted by a typically twitchy "Hijo!" Fer. David wants nothing to do with Fer, who's just creeping him right the hell out saying he wants to hang out with him, get to know his son...and David gets a one-episode pass for throwing some rocks at Fer and hightailing it out of there.

Fer heads around the way to a rather picturesque church and talks to the resident padre; after some hemming and hawing he finally says it--"I want to confess."

That night at the Club of Whatever Ale is sucking down a drink when Manuel pops in...

Manuel: "Well, I finally know what everybody's been talking about."
Ale: "Yeah...Gaby and her supposed rape."
Manuel: "Supposed? I should smite you where you sit for say--er, uh, you don't believe Gaby? Are you nuts?"
Ale: "Are you? You're always defending her...you like her, don't you?"
Manuel: "I like drinks. I like Chespirito reruns. My feelings for Gaby are more than that."
Ale: "Oh, yeah? How much more?"
Manuel: "I would have gone all mariachi band serenade on her by now if not for you."
Ale: "As resident galan I am invoking the right to be jealous about the protagonista I'm on the outs with. I don't like this, man."
Manuel: "Tough. I believe her, and I believe you're an idiot."
Ale: "Are you challenging me?"
Manuel: "Damn straight. If you're not going to support Gaby, then back off--I got this."

Obviously nothing serious will come of this, but at least the writers let her keep her one friend/unrequited admirer.
 

La Patrona: martes (p. 7--I swear, I'll get to somewhere closer to "timely" one day)

Anibal has a late chat with Antonia at LD. More accurately, she tells him it's time to take out their enemies--CL and Gaby--once and for all. Anibal isn't crazy about that idea, though Antonia notes it certainly won't be the first time they've "nudged someone into Death's embrace"; if either of them are killed now, he argues, she'll be the prime suspect in their deaths. And isn't that bad? Antonia's almost literally pouting in disappointment over that one.

And finally Gaby gets home to find Fer waiting outside for her; he manages to keep her from clocking him or running off long enough to say that he came to say he was sorry for all that he did to her--to apologize. Gaby looks massively impactada at that, and Ale--who followed her home in his SUV in creep mode (hmm...is it just the galans who are stalkers, or are there protagonistas who do it too?)--looks puzzled at the whole thing.
 

Bill, take your time. I love your writing-the play-by-play helps me to know if I was translating everything correctly, since I'm watching without closed-captioning in Spanish or English.

This week's eps have me repeatedly dropping my jaws in amazement at now good this TN is. Manuel Balbi, who plays Fer, needs to get whatever industry award there is in telenovelas for best supporting actor. I believed every word he said in the first five minutes of the EP. Aracely surprised me as well with her acting-a marked improvement from her annoying act in Abrazame My Fuerte. She looked like a cross between Adela Noriega and Thalia in their indigena TN days.
Heck, everyone in that first scene needs to get some award for their proper impactada faces.

I was a bit confused by Francisca's outfits while Tigre was in prison-she looked as if she was heading for the club, not fleeing to DF.
 

Pasión Prohibida -

I can see a real intriguing story here, but for some reason it is just not clicking for me,
but I want it to,

anyway some history,

the adaptation and screenplay for Telemundo is by Juan Camilo Ferrand
(the same author as Pablo Escobar: El Patrón del Mal)

"It is a remake of the Turkish telenovela (2008-2010), adapted from a novel, Ask-i Memnu, published in 1900."
(ref: from the wiki page),

and so I started reading a synopsis of the original novela,
wow, pulls you right in, (spoiler alert)
interesting that it describes the original character's (now Bianca) love for the older guy (now Ariel) is that of a father, not a husband. (isn't it the love of her father that kicked this all off)

anyway, a post by iriseve at TW indicated that the gran final of the Turkish version was watched by 80 million viewers,
(dream on Telemundo)

so, are we watching an award winning novela, getting off to a slow start,
or a remake of, "The Three Faces of Eve"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Three_Faces_of_Eve

the big question now with our novela is,
what are Bianca's intentions?
 

LA PATRONA:

Bill, your recaps are greatly appreciated.

As for people wondering if any new characters will be introduced, the credits which they play while Aracely sings the theme song show both a blonde we've never seen, and a dark haired guy (who was in Relaciones Peligrosas, I believe). So at some point, things may open up a bit for our leads.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt 1

Eli asks Zeke why a gunshot was fired. He says he wanted Ali to kill because he felt guilty. He wishes someone would just take his life. He wishes he could take Marcos place. Eli suggests he tell the truth but he cant. Fed visits Laura and tells her he is considering killing Valeria. Laura says he isn’t any different than Zeke when it comes to killing. He says he is willing to change. They share a kiss “Then don’t kill anyone” Laura says. In the visiting room dMart tells Nat and Tom that Marcos is the serial killer. Ali decides to quit her job. Zeke apologizes saying jealousy drives him crazy. Alicia says she feels the same! dMart is tells Tom that he wore the same suit as Marcos did the same day Mariana was murdered. Marcos is at a bar and shares a dance with two hotties. Braterina and Miggy are in a hotel room she tries to convince him to do the deed. They kiss and she says he’s almost as good as her doll-face. He tells her not to talk about him. Vale the Blonde Gorgon, visits Zeke telling him they need to kill Laura. As Ali is leaving Tom enters he tries to be sweet talk her but she wants none of it. Zeke doesn’t want to kill Laura but Vale says they have no chioce. During dinner the prisoners tells dMart that Ali is Dating Tomas. Zeke wont allow Vale to kill Laura, she tells him he has no control over her. Zeke asks if Vale killed Mari. She denies this and tells Zeke he has been warned to control his X or else…. As she is leaving she runs into Tom. He introduces himself to her (Does he have the hots for her? Yuck!) Marcos gets aggressive with a girl. She realizes he is crazy, but doesn’t seem to do much about it. Tom enters Zekes office asking for Marcos. He tells Zeke its possible that Marcos killed Mary. Marcos is doing the deed with the girl. Zeke kicks Tom out. Miggy and Brat have done the deed.

 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt2

Miggy tells Brat he always loved her. In prison Dmart is confronted by Moreira and his gang. dMart tries to strike a deal but to no avail as Moreira is angry that he is deaf on the left ear. He pulls a knife to dMarts throat. Nat is angry about Tom and Caro. Telling them to do their cochinadas at Caros apt. Tom decides to talk to her. Marcos tries to wake up the girl but it doesn’t work. “Good job Monster boy!” he says. Dmart disarms Moreira and holds the knife to his throat. dMart says to give him a cell phone and he will contact Felipe Rios. Tom tries to sleep with Nat. She resists at first but soon gives in to his charms. Layton says to Alex that Ali will be the next victim. Tom calls Ali to get the cards from the house. But she says she quit. The door knocks dMart who is it. Ali tells dMart it is Marcos. She hangs up. Moreira wants his phone back. Marcos tells Ali that he was with a girl and that she is not well. She agrees to go with him but first he asks for a water bottle. Moreira demands that dMart call Rios. Dmart convinces Rios to talk to Moreira. Marcos is driving Ali to the hotel. Luci tells his dad that he is hopelessly in love with Diana. Luci tries to convince Zeke that the war is over. Zeke says it is just starting, he then says that Tom suspects Marcos. Sonia and Juan are still pissed at Diana for being in love. Marcos suggests to Ali that the girl may be dead. She wants to call the police but Marcos begs her not to. dMart swipes the phone from Moreira. Ali and Marcos are at the hotel. dMart tells Ali that the killer is Marcos. Ali hangs up and follows Marcos. Prison guards arrive and take dMart to a solitary cell. Layton is certain that Ali will die soon. “The next victim is a woman whose death makes Martin cry” he says.
 

LA PATRONA
The dark-haired guy in the credits with a beard looks like an older David. The writers must have realized young David was working the viewers' nerves so they made him less annoying the past two eps. I've always liked him but the cries of malagrecido and maleducado were loud about ninito Suarez.

I have a question, though. How did Gaby and Fer not see Ale in the car last night while Fer was confessing? I'm like, 'Really? Ale wasn't that far away from them to be unnoticeable.' Still, that scene! Amazing!

PP
I can't get into PP-the guy who plays Bruno's uncle is creepy and JenCarlos reminds me of Zoolander without the same sense of fun irony.
 

ERDLV

A question: If Alicia really is Eva Samaniego shouldnt Zeke or dMart have been able to identify her?

Theory 1:Zeke and Eva are playing a game on everyone.
Theory 2: Like Fernanda from CV Eva got plastic surgery. This is why dMart and Zeke dont recognize her.
Theory 3: I wrong on both theorys
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

Thanks for the recap, NovelaMan. Let me answer your question with a question:

Have we ever seen Alicia in a scene with Federico and/or Valeria Samaniego? I can't remember seeing them together.

Telenovela wisdom to the contrary, most of us, at 28, look nothing like our eight-year-old selves, except, perhaps, to our parents. We need to see how Federico reacts to her -- if she IS Eva, then Valeria is in on it but seemingly, Federico is not.

Also, if Alicia is Eva, then maybe Marcos is not the monster of the past, even if he is one now. Eliana keeps saying that Ezequiel is lying. Does she mean about Marcos?
 

PASIóN PROHIBIDA

I am currently really into this show (which is usually always the case as they are laying the foundation for the characters), if only for Bianca/Bruno - their interaction is electric, and both are beautiful to watch.

As I've stated in TW, kids are usually intuitive, and Santi liking Bianca makes me think she's not all bad - only misunderstood. When she threw her mother's diamond earring (which was a bone of contention)and proclaimed that keeping the harmony in the Piamonte household was priceless, I believe she was sincere, coming from a less harmonious home herself; and also to spite her mother.
 

NovalaMaven So far Alicia hasn't had any scenes with Valeria or Federico. Again i could be wrong about Alicia.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

Well, I don't know if Alicia is who she claims to be but she is clearly hiding something. And she is involved from way back. Remember how everyone who meets her says something like: "Don't I know you? You look familiar to me." If Alicia and Marcos scuffle tonight, my money is on Alicia. (She's bigger, probably stronger, and she won't be taken by surprise.)

I like the way both of the bad guys, Ezequiel and Federico, want to back away from more violence while the Gorgon, Valeria, is more ferocious than ever.
 

PASIÓN PROHIBIDA

I'm hanging in there but mostly for watching the beautiful people. I also liked the diamond ring in the water bit.

I think Bianca is not a bad person, but unfortunately whiny Nina overheard her say she got rid of Bruno. And frankly, Bruno deserved to be gotten rid of since he was determined to "protect" Ariel from his new wife.

That's a false analogy that, because Flavia extorted her first son-in-law, that the same thing would happen to Ariel. After all, if she were going to do that, she'd have done it before the ceremony.
 

Pasion Prohibida

I'm not watching this one, but had to mention that I saw two episodes of the Turkish original last spring when I was in Egypt, caught indoors by a sand storm. Even with not understanding the language, it was pretty riveting. The exchange with the Muslim world goes both ways, as they also take Televisa and other LatAm tns and remake them. I saw a bit of one and was sure it was Rubi, and at the end I saw the familiar Televisa logo. It's a pretty cool cultural exchange to see how they adapt the tns for totally different cultures.
 

Marido en Alquiler -

(from the official Telemundo press release of today)

"Marido en Alquiler" (Husband for Hire)
a coproduction with Globo,
starring,
Juan Soler, Sonya Smith and Maritza Rodriguez

"tells the story of a strong and determined woman who works as a handyman to support her family and who will find love where she least expects it."

"to be taped in South Florida with original scripts written by Aguinaldo Silva, creator of the original Brazilian version "Fina Estampa." The Spanish-language version for Telemundo will be adapted by scriptwriter Perla Farias."

(Perla Farias wrote Flor Salvaje)

http://www.facebook.com/MaridoAlquiler
https://twitter.com/MaridoAlquiler

the complete Telemundo press release in Spanish and English can be found here,
http://www.nbcumv.com/mediavillage/networks/telemundo/pressreleases?pr=contents/press-releases/2013/01/31/lasestrellasjua1359671890985.xml

the wiki page is here,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marido_En_Alquiler
 

La Patrona: miércoles

Fernando is still trying to apologize to Gabriela for raping her, with Alejandro watching from his SUV about twenty feet away. Fer says that they have a son, that he just wants to fix the damage he caused; Gaby's still impactada, but not enough that she can't say that what he did to her can't be fixed. Manuel Balbi continues to maintain Ariel Lopez Padilla's legacy of crazy as Fer then goes straight into justification mode--he wanted her but she rejected him, he had been having problems at home, his mother's demands--but Gaby tells him to stop making excuses. If she had known it was him back then, she would have reported him and let her dad go wild on him. Fer gets a few perdónames in along the way, even while asking Gaby to just give him a chance...but he's got no chances with her, even on his knees proclaiming that he knows she must hate him for what he did, and Gaby gives him a theatrical and oddly offscreen whack to the face.

Fer continues pleading his case; he wants to change, for her and for their son. Gaby goes for the block and retorts that David isn't his son--fathering him doesn't make Fer his father. Fer gives a rambling account of his run-in with David earlier, complete with throwing rocks, and declares that his tears are real; screw the tears, goes Gaby. She's all out because she cried them all after what he did to her. Fer begs one more time for her to forgive him, and Gaby wins the round with "Forgive yourself, if you can. I can't do it." And she heads inside after that, which is Ale's cue to come up and grab Fer; he heard him admit he raped Gaby. Fer insanely taunts him like crazy: what's Ale going to do, kill him? Keep the woman he already made his, who's the mother of his child? Ale reminds him that she was never his, since he raped her--which, Fer admits, makes him a rat and escoria (scum, I think) and he doesn't deserve anything in this world. But, Fer sobs, he loves her!...yeah, that makes it okay. Really. Ale gives up, just shoves him into his Jeep and takes him home.

Inside Gaby goes to check on David (who fakes being asleep) and gives him a tearful kiss on the cheek. A little later David comes to her room and gets into bed with her, like when he was younger and afraid of storms...Gaby tells him that what they're going through now is kind of like a storm, but that it will end eventually. She then says he shouldn't be scared to live life because he's a Suarez, body and soul, and they're good people. David quietly goes te quiero mucho; "I love you too," goes Gaby, and she kisses him on the forehead.

La Dorada: Antonia is telling Anibal how Gaby has power over both of her sons, which makes her dangerous. Anibal wonders if Antonia is scared of the minera; no, goes Antonia, she just wants to get rid of her. And her dad, for that matter. Anibal notes now would be a bad time, since the whole town now knows about her issues with them. Antonia is all "I'm not going to just sit around, I wanna destroy somebody now!" and Anibal officially starts the deathwatch: why not let Tigre Suarez go free? After all, the streets are more dangerous than jail...oooh, the Ice Queen likes the idea of Captain Lou having an "accidentito." Not to mention how she'd be seen as the magnanimous and generous patrona who just freed the town hero--bonus!

Anibal leaves after that with a parting "Just wait for things to settle down," and off we go to Antonia's bedroom where Poncia is turning down her sheets before noticing David's picture in a big gold frame on the nightstand. Antonia (her hair's encroaching on her left eyebrow now, and that plus the whacked-out ombre equals "What the hell, costuming?") comes in on that note and goes "What are you criticizing now, woman?"
 

La Patrona: miércoles (p. 2)

Poncia notes that David isn't her son and she can't take him from her mother, who fought for him; the boy's a Beltran, according to the Ice Queen, and she'll make him the most important man in the country...no matter who she hurts. It'll be another chance to get it right, versus what happened with her sons--and David will be her finest work yet.

Poncia calls it like she sees it; David's going to hate his father and all of them, and Antonia's even crazier than she thought if she thinks he's going to love her. Antonia bahs at the arrimada (freeloader) who's "lived in the shadow of my triumphs," and breaks out the index finger of doom as she declares that she's a mujer de exito, that people respect her, and that with time David will love her more than her own mother. Poncia is all "Every day you lose more and more of your mind, girl" on her way out, and Antonia is thus rather tense after a long day of bitching and scheming. She decides she needs to relax...but how?

SPDO: Alberto and Patty are still getting it on in his hotel room when his cellphone rings. Patty objects to his answering it, but he does...que?...ahora?...si claro. And he's out of bed like a shot and getting dressed--there's "a problem in the mine" he needs to deal with, and she needs to go. Patty is all "I can wait for you here"; Alberto's remarks that his stuff's there and he can't let a stranger stay there, let alone invoking lárgate!, really don't reassure her that she's important and stuff.

Ale brings a somewhat calmer Fer back to LD and tells him that he needs to confess to Gaby's rape. Fer's crazy, but not completely stupid; why would he ever confess? He doesn't want to go to jail. Gaby deserves the truth, according to Ale, and this makes Fer a coward; better that than going to jail, retorts Fer. Ale considers going pow on him, but decides there's no point...he's just a bastard...and exits. Fer yells after him that he finally gets it, that Ale wants him to look like a creep while Ale's the big hero--but Ale won't beat him this time!--right before he notices Julia, who wandered in on the very end of all this and has a smirk on her face. I guess that's default mode for los Montemar.

Ale goes back to his hotel room and ponders on how Gaby was indeed telling the truth and he lost her because he was an idiot...yeah, yeah. FF> Oh, look, it's Antonia knocking on Alberto's door and being greeted with a kiss--"What a nice way to greet me!" she gushes before going in. And Patty sees the whole thing from around a corner, though instead of jumping for joy to be free of Mr. Punchable Face she's all choked up. Cynically I wonder if the show's going to rehabilitate Alberto down the line and pair him up again with Patty; it's exactly in Telemundo's wheelhouse to pull that, too.

The next morning Antonia is still in Alberto's room, ordering Lagarto to release "him." Alberto, who's still in bed, idly wonders who she's letting go; Antonia cheerfully (for her) remarks that it's not important...all he needs to worry about is pleasuring her...before she leaves and runs into a red-eyed Patty. Patty is all "Antonia! What a surprise! What are you doing here?", and Antonia replies that she's there for a beauty treatment. Yup, at that hour. It's a "privilege bosses have." After she leaves Patty sniffles la odio, and I'm still thinking she should be dancing...

Over at the jail Lizardo wakes CL up with a thump to the side and gives him the news: la patrona dropped the charges against him. Now lárgate!
 

La Patrona: miércoles (p. 3)

CDS: Gaby is telling Fran about how David slept with her, how he apparently forgave her...she now has some hope that things will be turn out all right...when Julia shows up to put a damper on her mood. Gaby give us our third lárgate! of the day thanks to that, but Julia's there with a proposition--to become Gaby's ally against los Beltran...

(Crash in the La patrona soy yooooo... credits, which make a lot more sense after our seeing Zombie Veronica Castro in the previous episode, and a sidebar: apart from Gonzalo Garcia Vivanco's still to be introduced character, the mysterious blonde in the blue dress at the end is a heavily glammed-up AA. She appears in a network-level promo in the same dress.)

Gaby is naturally skeptical of Julia's intentions, since she tried to ruin her life; at least she wasn't a hypocrite about it, admits Julia, like her would-be suegra Antonia who was hiding her real intent. Gaby wonders if Antonia sent her; Julia denies it, but then asks if they can talk alone. Fran takes the hint and disappears into CL's room after reminding Gaby to keep her guard up; Gaby takes Julia into the kitchen, where she admits she owes her multiple apologies for what she tried to do with David before telling her that she overheard Fer admit to Ale that he raped her, but that "there was no proof" (don't know where CC3 got that one, TBH). Julia wants to be Gaby's witness and testify against Fer.

Gaby busts out the "Oh, really?" face for that--what's in it for Julia? She's not really doing it por solidaridad feminina, right? Julia swears she's being honest...but...okay, she wants to strike back at Fer--let his ass rot in jail, and screw him and his bitch mother. I'm not going to add her to the deathwatch...yet...though Julia sticks close to it by going on about how this would be an alliance of hate, hate against the Beltrans, and how Fer humiliated her for years by abusing her...him and his mother need to be punished! Let's shake on it! Fran (who looks oddly sexier in this episode than previously, but that's me) pops up and advises Gaby not to touch her--there's a dark cloud over Julia, too. (Julia: "Why's she looking at me like that?") Gaby finally goes no, no deal; she knows Julia still hates her, and she read somewhere that a wife can't testify against a husband anyway--and Julia's still married to Fer. Julia is all "Fine--if Antonia takes your son, I warned you" and leaves, and Fran shivers; Julia reeks of death, she says. It's close to her. Maybe I should rethink including her in the deathwatch.

SPFM: Gaston's lunchtime diatribe about the corrupt Montemar administration and its abuse of power includes how he saw his beloved Inocencia die a while back...how a great friend is in jail today. Tomorrow, it could be any of them--or their children--but that doesn't mean his listeners should bow their heads. After all, más vale morir de pie que vivir arrodillados (it's better to die on your feet than live on your knees).

CL walks in in mid-diatribe, and after Gaston puts on some music to "serve as some hope" (in my head I'm picturing the theme from Red Dawn...what?) gets a hug out of him. Gaston's glad to see he's out; CL notes that it's good for them, but bad for their enemies--those desgraciados had better be ready. Gaston wryly notes that CL's literally just out of jail and already wanting to get into more trouble...and he wouldn't have it any other way.
 

La Patrona: miércoles (p. 4)

At the Club of Whatever Ale is telling Ricardo how he heard Fer admit he raped Gaby. Ricardo notes that at this point Ricardo would have to confess, otherwise there's no case--which pisses Ale off; he suggests he could testify, which prompts Ricardo to note that Fer's lawyer would kill that by saying that he's lying since he's involved with Gaby. Ricardo knows Ale's no liar, but what he thinks doesn't matter--without the confession, Gaby's case is hopeless in the eyes of the law--which gets him a "Forget the law! What matters is the truth, and you're ignoring it!" from Ale.

Ricardo explains that legally his hands are tied; once again he's giving in to his father, goes Ale, and his mother. Ricardo manages to hold off on "WTH, man, you're comparing me to them?" until after one last run at the wall of pissed: Gaby's case was a long shot from the beginning, since proving rape so far after the fact is virtually impossible, and now Ale wants him to ignore the law? Does that sound ethical? (Ah, if only you knew you were in a novela, guys.)

Okay, Now She's Zooey Deschanel: after Ale stomps out, Ricardo then gets to see a sad-looking Patty hovering in a doorway as Alberto comes up on her...but Patty pushes him away. He kicked her out of his room, she tells him, for that old hag--she's not your boss, but your lover! Alberto manages to hustle her off in "Let's talk, honey" mode, and Ricardo looks puzzledly impactado.

Alberto gets Patty back to his room where he expectedly blasts her for spying on him--que patético! What's more pathetic, according to Patty, is that he's a kept man...is he that lousy an engineer that he has to sleep with his boss? That earns her a cálmate and "Don't insult me because you're bitter," but she forges ahead--this is why they've always met in secret. Is he scared of Antonia? Does he think he matters to her? Nuh-uh...he's just a sex toy to her, and she'll dump him for a younger and hotter model soon enough.

Alberto retorts that, hey, Patty obviously knows how good he is in bed--otherwise she wouldn't be all red-eyed from crying over him. See, there's a mirror...look. Patty looks, and she says it's true...but in the mirror she sees a woman who's beautiful, intelligent, and young. A princess, like they call the Montemar girls in this town (and considering the others' dispositions I'm kind of worried if Patty's going to go through a royal bitch phase). With that, she bids Alberto goodbye--and good riddance.

CDS: Gaby is all set to go take lunch to CL in jail when he shows up with Gaston. Fran gets in some smooches on him while Gaby tells him that David forgave her; afterwards they have lunch, with Gaston mentioning that he'll be able to make some sort of list for CL (contacts for the mine thing?) if he can get to a computer with Internet access. Gaby mentions David's laptop, which apparently really is slow; Fran takes Gaston to it while Gaby asks CL what he'll be doing in Mexico City. CL corrects her--what they'll be doing, since the whole family is going with him; SPDO is too dangerous, and the wolves are getting closer. Yup, the wolves are Antonia and the rest of the Axis of Evil...and it all has to do with Gaby's mother's land...
 

La Patrona: miércoles (p. 5)

CL seals his fate as he breaks out a map (and some of the gold stash, which he and Gaby identify as "high-grade") and finally explains to Gaby about El Chamuco being home to a massive underground vein of gold and how he started spreading the rumors about Satan appearing there to keep it a secret. Since the area is so large (and believed worthless, according to Gaby, which matches a similar comment a couple of weeks back) and the underground entrance hidden, that was why Alberto and Ramon never found it when they were out there. But since the Axis knows about it, they've got to hurry...and, CL adds, Gaby needs to know how to find it in case he's gone. Gaby doesn't like the sound of that, but CL insists that if need be she'll have to fight for their fortune--it's for her and her son, for Fran and his son. But for now they just have to get to Mexico City and register the mine.

Gaston and Fran come back down on the heels of this, and CL tells Fran to pack everybody's bags--they're out of there today. Gaby notes that they thought CL was going ahead of them since David and Max are in school...can't they wait? CL doesn't give a damn if they flunk the year, they're going; Gaston backs him up, stating that staying in town would be dangerous. After that Fran and Gaby basically talk about how leaving SPDO and, in Gaby's case, not seeing Ale again will suck...but they'll be okay, since home is wherever your loved ones are. And for Gaby that now includes Fran, who's overjoyed (and looking even sexier) to hear that.

Meanwhile David and Max run into Antonia and Bullethead on their way out of school. Antonia asks David if he'd like a ride, which prompts Max to call her mala since he put his father in jail; Antonia is all "Why, no, I had him released today. I did it for you, honey...I love you." David for once sticks to his guns--he's with his mother, and he wants nothing to do with her or her family. And on that note David and Max run off for home, with Antonia looking annoyed.

Back to CDS, where Gaston is explaining to CL outside about the list he compiled for him--it's of contacts he trusts. CL wants Gaston to come to the capital, but Gaston says that the police won't let him leave town; I guess he's still a suspect in Inocencia's death, since he adds that the trial for that hasn't started yet. They urge each other to take care, and before Gaston leaves CL proudly admits that he's been a great friend to him. (whonk What was that? I think I heard an anvil falling...)

Ale shows up right after this, wanting to talk to Gaby. CL is all "The hell you are," even after Ale admits that he now knows Gaby was telling the truth and he was wrong; Ale's apologies don't mean anything. He's still a Beltran, and his mother declared war on los Suarez over him trying to kill Fer and...well, other things that if Ale doesn't know about yet he will shortly. Ale pleads his case to CL, saying that his daughter changed his life and he loves her, but CL tells him to forget about Gaby; what Ale's brother did to her will always be on her mind, and they'll never get past that.

(J desde NYC suggested upthread that Ale would need an "escape hatch" to get past the ew tied up in this, which applies to Gaby too IMO. But while they suggested this means Ale's going to end up somebody else's son, I'm still more inclined to think it'll be Fer who gets that honor. It's always the loons, I think...)

CL then notes that he still thinks Ale's an okay guy deep down, reminiscient of his dad. But his mind's made up--the whole family's getting the hell out of this town, and Ale should too. He should get as far away as he can from the family he was unfortunate enough to be born into before they "infect him with their wickedness."
 

La Patrona: miércoles (p. 6)

On that note CL ends the conversation and goes back inside, where he ends up talking to David and Max about his (and, in a few days, their) intended trip/move to Mexico City. Okay, fine. FF>>>

Quinta las Princesas: a somewhat more composed Patty is thanking Ricardo for bringing her home. Ricardo notes that he's her friend and wants to help; Patty appreciates that, though she's not ready to talk about what's bugging her yet. Prudencia (good lord, the bubblegum lip gloss makes her look even more alien) pops up to see Ricardo reassuring Patty that he's there for her, complete with a kiss on the forehead, and immediately goes full Lando Calrissian: "Oh, hi! So good to see you! Won't you stay for lunch?" Ricardo wisely says he's got things to do and leaves with Shru declaring that he's always welcome, their doors are always open, etc.; Shru immediately turns to Patty and goes "You did it! He's in love with you!" Patty wisely just shakes her head and goes upstairs, which alien Shru doesn't understand: "What's the matter? You just won the lottery!"

A little later Irene is kicking back in the living room with a book when Patty comes back downstairs with Julia in tow. Irene mentions that Mom had said Patty wasn't feeling well; Patty finally admits that Irene was right, that she was being cheated on (girl, that should be "with") with ("on") Antonia Guerra. Irene's a little impactada at that, and she urges a surprised Patty not to say anything--Julia too; Julia is all "Weeeeell...I already knew about that." Patty wonders why she couldn't tell her, and Julia just says that she couldn't; but she knows that her suegra digs fresh meat. It's okay, though...because, according to Julia, revenge is sweet. Very sweet. Welcome to the end of the deathwatch, Julia Montemar.

And out at the mine Ale is packing a box when this happens:

Manuel: "Is it true, boss? You're leaving the mine?"
Ale: "Pfft...I'm leaving the whole damn town, man."
Manuel: "Woohoo! You're getting out of the way for me and Gaby!"
Ale: "Bitch, I will--ahem. You might want to forget about her, dude. She's leaving town too."
Manuel: "Really? Hell...that means you two are back together, right? She's going with you?"
Ale: "Wait...oh my God, why didn't I think of that? Manuel, you're a genius! You're getting a raise--bye!"
Manuel: ".....did I just give the competition an idea?...damn it!"

One Whonk Every Five Seconds: CL is loading his truck, accompanied by the rest of the clan. David says that CL needs someone to go with him, and CL replies that this is a mission he must carry out alone. David and Max now have a new mission, to no longer be cubs but tigers--they're the men of the house now, and they have to protect the Suarez women--"our reason for living," he proudly states. David and Max swear it, palabra de Tigre!

He then kisses Fran and tells her to wipe that sad look off his face; he won't be gone forever. He'd better not, Fran sniffles, or she'll die. CL bahs at that...he's going first when the time comes, so he can welcome her like the queen she is...but he's still got plenty to do for her in this world, for how she filled the emptiness in his life, how she filled him with love.
 

La Patrona: miércoles (p. 7)

Fran gets another kiss and a heartfelt gracias before he moves on to hug the kids, then Gaby. Gaby notes she packed him some food for the trip, and CL in turn tells her not to cry; their lives will be different after this trip. CL tells her to remember who she is--his pride, his tigresa--and gives her a medallion (the Virgencita?) on a chain; it used to belong to her mother, who wore it for protection, and now it will protect her too. Gaby tearfully tells Dad to take care, and off he goes in his truck with everybody sadly looking after him.

We now pause for an anvil break.

SPDO: Ale is packing his clothes in his hotel room when Antonia shows up. She's understandably curious about him taking a trip--yeah, Ale admits, but he's not coming back; he's getting away from her, from his brother, and from all the misery that is their family. Antonia naturally says that he can't abandon them, that they're the only family he has; what's he going to do, anyway? Ale is all "I'll start over somewhere where I can live without being ashamed," which prompts Antonia to ask where he's going. And Ale tells her he's going wherever Gaby goes...wherever her dad's taking her. He's following the woman he loves, and the bonus for Antonia is that los Suarez won't be a problem for her any more...they're all getting out of town.

The Ice Queen's poker face here is kind of impressive as she wonders where they're going...but, wait, they can't take David. Ale reminds her that she has no hold over him before adding that getting away from her is the best decision they could have made. Of course, he then says all the wrong things--how CL told him she had declared war on them over whatever things she knew about, and more importantly that she's lost this particular battle. On that note he grabs his suitcase and heads out with an hasta nunca, and Antonia damn near breaks the sound barrier getting Julio on her cellphone. "We have a problem," indeed.

LD: Julia goes into Fer's bedroom and opens the shades, waking him up. Fer grumps that he won't get back to sleep now and throws out a lárgate!, but Julia needs to talk to him...see, she even brought him one of his little bottle friends. Fer gets acquainted with his friend, and Julia tells him she wants a divorce; Fer laughs that off, since his mother doesn't want them divorcing yet. Julia declares that she doesn't care what that bitch of a mother thinks. Fer kills his friend by smashing it on the floor and tells Julia not to insult her, which is Julia's cue to call Antonia a slut. That gets her a whack from Fer, and another one when she does it again--she'll shout it from the rooftops if she has to, so everyone will know that Antonia's trash just like him. Fer threatens to kill her if she doesn't apologize, but Julia says it's true--Antonia is Alberto Espino's lover!

This, of course, is overheard by Antonia and Poncia. Antonia looks slightly annoyed. Poncia busts out another disapproving headshake.

CDS: Ale shows up to talk to Gaby, though she's not having it...everybody deserves a second chance, he says. (David: "That's true! I saw this movie..." before Fran hustles him and Max out of there.) Gaby tells him to say what he's got to say and then walk out her door forever; forever's a long time, according to Ale, for a man who's doomed to love her. Gaby tries to resist el llamada de galan--how dare he say that?--but Ale loves her, and that's the truth. Does she think he'd be dumb enough to lose her?...he knows he hurt her by not believing in her, but he's asking for her forgiveness. And he's asking her to go away with him again, to start a new life together. I'm still cleaning up the anvils from earlier, so...
 

Pasion Prohibida
Novelera: Flavia is such a piece of work... and I keep picturing Katy Barbieri in this role. oh well.
Shallowgal: maybe the actor they picked for Ariel is purposely not too attractive, but more of the fatherly type--since subconsciously Bianca appears to be searching for a family and a father replacement.
Deb, I enjoyed reading your comments as well. This novela doesn't really have "legs" yet but I sense lots of good possibilities.
J in Oregon

 

Bill C. I'm so weeping with laughter at this recap. We now pause for an anvil break...So did I. CL, Julia, and Fer are marked for death, IMHO. CL, because of Ale who put all los Suarez plans in the streets. Ale always sabatoges himself by revealing what he plans to do.

I think Fer's gonna kill himself since his purpose, to confess to Gaby and Ale , but not turn himself to the authorities, has been fulfilled. Manuel Balbi is a standout in this TN as Fer. I felt his apology last night especially when he described how David stoned him and was ashamed of him. He needs to be good galan in another tn because he worked well with Aracely.

Julia has an anvil coming her way because she no longer fears or loves her esposa and suegra and wouldn't be down with taking David from Gaby, so she has to go.
 

La Patrona:

Having seen tonight's episode...ah, hell.

And by standard Novelalandia rules Fer needs to die for both the rape and to clear the path for Alejandro as David's stepfather. This might be complicated, however, by the one thing I've been expecting since the opening credits first appeared: a possible and massive incoming timeskip.
 

LA PATRONA
Just saw tonight's EP. It was doing a little too much for me since Guerra is trying to kill everyone at once, which seems too unbelievable. She's angry and scared ever since Gaby said 'My father for your son.' I agree with Anibal on this: Guerra is rushing things and getting careless because she's mad at gentazo insulting her.

Ale was doing his best galan tonight. Tigre was amazing. I want to know Macario's back story. Fer is definite goingto
 

MADE IN CARTAGENA - Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013 - part 1:

Harvey joins Watusi and Vicente on the walking tour through the neighborhood. Flora runs through the back alleys to get to Sabroso’s house. She finds Celina and tells her about Harvey, Watusi and Vicente’s tour and they are heading this way. Flora is nervous and has to get out of there. As Watusi climbs into the truck and turns on the radio for some dance music. Flora jumps behind the bushes and disappears. Celina joins the tour and Watusi introduces her to Vicente Dominguez. As they talk, Watusi agrees to take Harvey and Vicente to the house to meet Sabroso. They walk through the house to the backyard. Sabroso is still sitting in his hammock. Watusi presents Vicente to him. Celina goes into the house to get refreshments.

Flora makes it back home. Dixon is there and corners her with loads of questions about what is happening? Why all the secrets? She refuses to tell him anything. Sofia and Marcos are in her bedroom at the ‘rich” Flora’s family home. They are talking and laughing about the club and the dance contest.

Celina serves the drinks to the men. Vicente and Harvey are discussing with Sabroso an idea. Watusi listens.

Flora tries to get Dixon to back off and leave. Dixon refuses to go, he wants her to tell him what’s up? Does it have anything to do with Cande? If so, she has to tell him. She continues to refuse to say anything.

Harvey and Vicente finish conversation with Sabroso and leave the house. Out on the street, Harvey and Vicente discuss the people who live in that area; he’s interested in working on something important with Vicente. Vicente is intrigued.

Flora tells her brother to just stop asking questions, he doesn’t want to get involved with this spy game; he needs to concentrate on his studies, education. Dixon argues with her. He is part of this family and has a right to be part of whatever is being planned. Flora gives up; she gives him a hug and tries again to convince him to stay out of it.

Harvey takes Vicente to the club. He explains how he started to club and why. They agree to talk in private in his office. As they head upstairs, Harvey signals to Bletcho, behind the bar. Bletcho signals to the others.

Profe talks with Guard Perez in the prison yard - wants to know information about Cande’s hit and Negro. Perez says Negro is in isolation; any more information will cost him.

Flora walks into the bedroom at her ‘rich’ home. She finds Sofia with a boy. Sofia introduces her to Marcos. Susanah interrupts and Flora leaves with her. Sofia and Marcos continue to talk.

In the hallway, Flora and Susanah have a private conversation. Susanah talks to Flora about the ‘birds and the bees” - Flora is confused. Susanah tells her to be careful with Vicente, don’t give him any ideas about how she may or may not really feel about him. She needs to make sure about the relationship before anything happens.

 

MADE IN CARTAGENA - Thursday, Jan. 31 - Part 2

Vicente checks the mirror in the office. He compliments Harvey on his club. Harvey comments. Vicente tells him about his own business at the bank. The conversation shifts to the Santa Helena statue. Vicente says someone has already tried to steal it. Harvey laughs, this sounds like a ‘movie plotline’. Vicente says it is true, and they have no leads on who the masked men were who tried to steal it. Vicente mentions he knows of one person who was shot outside the bank. Harvey has a flashback to his final moments with his son Robertson, the TV news report and yelling at the gang, “Who did it? Who shot my son?” Vicente brings Harvey back to the present - he tells him everything he knows about the case and the person who died. Vicente is saddened by the death. Harvey is quiet as he listens, then he says the person who died was his son and that he needs answers and to find the person who did it. Vicente agrees with Harvey - he and the police needs answers also.

Harvey has another flashback - this time, he, Bletcho and Max are on the boat in the middle of the ocean. They have stuffed a man in a large bag and pushed him overboard. At the bag sinks, Harvey shoots at the bag.

Harvey and Vicente continue their conversation in the office. Celina and the bartender are talking - he tells her not to go up to the office and interrupt. The boss is having a very serious conversation and shouldn’t be disturbed. Vicente and Harvey are talking - whatever Vicente said made Harvey not take the gun from the drawer and instead close the drawer. Harvey pushes back from the desk and starts to have a heart attack. Vicente is shocked and goes into emergency medical training mode. He yells for someone to call an ambulance, they have to take Harvey to the nearest hospital. Celina and Bletcho run in to help, as Vicente starts CPR on Harvey. In the SUV, Bletcho is very worried and panics as Vicente continues to give CPR to Harvey.

In the prison infirmary, Cande is still unconscious and hooked up to machines. Profe stands by the doorway as the nurse finishes checking his vital signs. Profe asks the nurse to go get something to eat. He will stay with Cande.

At the clinic, Doctor meets with Vicente and Bletcho about Harvey’s heart attack. Bletcho says he is Harvey’s cousin. Doctor leaves. Bletcho suggests Vicente go ahead and leave; he will stay there. Vicente leaves. Bletcho immediately calls the ‘batcave” and tells Aguamala the sad, bad news about Harvey. Aguamala takes a few moments before telling Mireya and Max that their boss had a heart attack and is at the clinic. He says Vicente was the one who did CPR and saved Harvey’s life. Mireya immediately jumps to work mode and says they should call Flora and tell her - Flora is close to Vicente and can help keep an eye on him.

A short time later, the gang arrives at the clinic and finds Bletcho in the waiting area. Bletcho fills them in on all the details about what happened with Harvey, including Vicente’s CPR work on the way to the clinic and the initial report from the Doctor.

 

MADE IN CARTAGENA - Thursday, Jan. 31 - Part 3:

In the kitchen, Flora and Belen are talking; Max calls Flora and tells her about Harvey’s heart attack. As Flora relays the message, Belen thinks it is about Cande, No mommy, it’s about godfather Harvey. Just at that moment, Marcos enters and asks why Flora is calling her maid, Mommy? Flora has to think quickly and cover her tracks - Belen has always been like a mom to her.

Back in the infirmary, Profe smiles as Cande opens his eyes and wakes up.

Marcos sneaks into Flora’s ‘bedroom’. He searches around and opens the closet. He finds several clothing items and shoes still with the tags on them. He takes the clothes to the bedroom and shows them to Sofia. He tells her about Flora and Belen’s conversation in the kitchen. Sofia tries to justify the clothes - she does the same thing; hang new items up without taking the tags off. Marcos is suspicious of Flora - something isn’t right with her; he convinces Sofia to question her ‘so-called’ new friend Flora.

The gang meets with the doctor at the clinic. The doctor tells them Harvey needs to be seen by a specialist, and they need to come up with the money to hire one. Doctor leaves. The gang is frustrated.

Marco and Sofia enter Flora’s room and return the clothes to the closet. Susanah catches them in the room and scolds them about being disrespectful to Flora and her family’s hospitality. Sofia apologizes and she and Marcos leave. Susannah breaths a sigh of relief.

Cande tells Profe what he remembers of the attack. Profe fills him in on the family’s visit. Cande misses his dad. Meanwhile, at the clinic, the gang discuss working together on Harvey’s behalf. Flora appears and everyone is quiet. Flora is suspicious and asks, ‘who’s getting killed (who’s dead)?” At the prison, Cande tells Profe they have to get him out of there as soon as possible. He’s scared. Profe says he has to completely recover first. Cande doesn’t care, he has to leave, by any means necessary.

In the kitchen, Belen fills in Susannah about Sofia, the drugs and drug dealer. The conversation turns to Cande and Belen reveals her worries about Cande and Flora. At the clinic, Bletcho fills in Flora about Harvey and what he needs now. Flora is shocked and reminds them they all work at the club. Vicente appears and says he has contacted a friend of his who is the best cardiologist in the area, and his friend has agreed to take care of Harvey. Aguamala and Flora disappear through the double doors and try to pick a door lock while Max and Mireya watch.

Next Episode: Watusi, Sabroso and “Super Celina” are at the house talking; The gang is setting up a sting/hit - Max’s finger is on the trigger and Vicente is in the sight scope.
 

LA PATRONA: jueves

Is Irene trying to be successor to Guerra? She wants Ale that much she is willing to co-sign Guerra's suicide cover-up. No loyalty or heart on that one. That whopper she told about Julia is too much. Loved Tigre's choice to muere en pie no vive arodillado
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt1

Ali tells Marcos that the party girl is not dead but they need to call an ambulance. He demands that she wake up the party girl or else she will not leave. Nat feels bad for sleeping with Tom. Tom tells her again that sex and love aren’t the same thing. Nat considers starting an open relationship with alex yet she loves him. Nat leaves to shower. Tom remembers his latest encounter with Alicia. dMart is locked up again in the extra security cell. Ali guts Marcos and flees into the hotel hall. Caro is not in the living room when he gets Alis call to help her. Eliana tells Zeke that the police called. Caro is mad that Tom left her for Nat but Nat says she quits. Tom arrives and Caro says is starting to have feelings for Tom but he tells her not to. Ali visits dMart and they kiss. Zeke and Marcos are in Toms office. Zeke tells Marcos that an he has the strength of an Alvarado. If he doesn’t like himself then at least do it for him. Marcos is touched. dMart tells Ali he was scared that she would die. He then tells her that Marcos is the killer. Tom interrogates Marcos and tells Zeke that he makes the rules now in his office. dMart says that Layton is helping him. Ali says not to trust him, but dMart says only a killer can understand another killer. He wants to know when she planned to tell him that Ali and Tom were Dating. “Do you still love him?” dMart asks. Miggy and Braterina oversleep. Brat tells him the bed was so good he was talking in her sleep. That Miggy said he loved her. He denies this and says he was probably talking about Patricia. Brat hopes so. dMarts visiting hours are over. He begs Ali to stay away from Marcos, She will if dMart will do his best to get out as soon as possible. While Tom interrogates Marcos he keeps telling Zeke (who keeps interrupting) to shut up. He then asks if Marcos had anything to do With Mariana, and Tanyas deaths. Marcos denies committing murder. Zeke is infuriated saying that his girlfriends killer is out in the streets. Tom counters this by asking “Didn’t you just say earlier that dMart was the killer?” Zeke demands to leave with Marcos.

 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA pt2

Tom says that lack of cooperation will look bad on the trial date. Marcos says on the night of the murders he was with Veronica. Tom asks about Tanya and Zeke wants to leave. He can leave but Marcos stays. Vero arrives at the station late. Hector says that a girl overdosed on drugs and Marcos in deatined at the police station for attempted homicide. Gutierrez shows Tom a video of Ali and dMart kissing. He asks that Gutierrez bring dMart to him. Caro tries to put her moves on Nat but she says no. She wants Caro to leave her apartment. Layton says soon DNA will prove that Marcos was the killer/rapist. dMart says that no one mentioned Rape. Gutierrez takes dMart to see Tom again. Suddenly Layton is pissed. He was wrong. If there was no rape then Marcos is innocent. The killer is a woman. Alex says he can’t believe Layton screwed up. Nat thinks that Marcos is actually innocent. dMart tells Tom that he wants to see Marcos. Layton made mistakes because no one gave him enough evidence. Layton thinks the woman will strike again. dMarts flips out on Marcos he chokes him in anger. Tom and Gutierrez seem to enjoy the show! Layton asks for the names of the surviving women. Natalia Garcia his wife is a dentist. Carolina Pinto a model, hot but not too bright! Alejandra Moreno a recovering alcoholic. She helps recovering alcoholics. Last is Diana Mercader secretary and dMarts sister. It’s one of them deduces Layton. Tom finally pulls dMart off Marcos who continues to proclaim innocence. dMart wants to kill him. “I didn’t kill anyone.” Marcos yells. Alex wonders why a woman is the killer. When a woman kills she doesn’t want sexual gratification. She wants perfection. Nat gave dMart his suit. Alex asks if he is accusing his wife. He accuses everyone. A woman is playing a riddle game on them. Nat and Caro argue about love and sex. The door knocks its Ale she is scared she received a death threat “ITS YOUR TURN NOW!” Marcos and dMart still argue about Marcos being the killer. Marcos finally seems to convince dMart of his innocence. Laura enters Alis apartment. She says Marcos is Innocent. Ali says they should let Tom do their job. Ale asks for wine. Caro says she can’t drink. Ale says she suspected Pat because of jealousy over Tanya. Ale drinks the wine. Tom says he thinks Marcos is innocent. dMart wants to return to his cell. Tom brings Layton to his office. He tells them the killer is a woman. Not just any woman, one of the surviving classmates.
 

EL ROSTRO DE LA VENGANZA

Thanks, NovelaMan. Well done.

If your suspicions about Alicia are right and she is Eva Samaniego, then Leyton could be right about the killer being one of the surviving female classmates -- he just doesn't know Alicia is in the suspect pool.

Language stuff:

I noticed the other day that they were calling Tomás "Comisario". Have they done this all along? I had the word "Capitán" in my brain.

Also, the new threatening note read something like:
"Ahora te toca a ti."
(It's your turn)

I'm fascinated by the use of "tocar." One of Pablo's favorite expressions in "Pablo Escobar: el patrón del mal" was the laconic "Toca," short for "Te toca (a ti)" and meaning "You gotta."

People also "tocar la puerta" (knock on the door),"tocar el piano" (play the piano)

So. It touches you (it's your turn; it's your lot), you touch the door, you touch the pian. But if something is "touching" (emotionally), you need a different word like "conmovedor". [Though you can be "touched" (tocado), in which case you might seek refuge in the "tocador" (powder room).
 

MADE IN CARTAGENA:

Jody, thanks for a very comprehensive recap. Here are a few clarifications:

Harvey told Vicente about the big dance contest final at his club, and wants Vicente to attend. Everything Harvey says to Vicente is secretly to get back at him, because he thinks Vicente killed Robinson (but Vicente didn't!). Harvey is inviting Vicente to the finals even though Flora will be in them, so that will cause trouble.

Flora had already met Marcos at the beach club the other day, and was mad at him when he got a bit grabby. Marcos is Sofi's cousin. Sofi wants Marcos to go along with her story that the drugs are Liliana's. Marcos is suspicious of Flora, where did she come from, why all new clothes, leaving at strange times, the thing with her "maid". But Sofi doesn't see it.

Harvey does NOT tell Vicente his son was the robber who got killed. No, he says his son was killed by some bad people (acting as if it's a totally different thing). Vicente keeps saying whoever sent the young people to do the robbery is a coward, and deserves to be punished. Harvey knows that's him. He's seething with rage at Vicente, grabbing his gun in the drawer, when he has the heart attack.

Even though Vicente does try to save Harvey, that's NOT what Blatcho tells the others. He tells them Vicente did SOMETHING in that room to KILL Harvey! They're all super angry, and they say we can't wait for Harvey to recover, we have to kill "him"! (meaning Vicente). This is what Flora heard. She's confused, kill who? They says "whomever may have caused Harvey to be in the hospital". She says "that's silly, you guys aren't killers, you're employees of a disco". She has no idea they ARE killers, but is starting to sense something is wrong with them.

We still don't know what's up with Mireya, who seems to be a secret traitor to the crew, but also is the one who lied and said Vicente killed Robinson. She must have something personal against Vicente from years ago.

So many close calls, the excitement is gripping!
 

LA PATRONA

Bill, I'm probably ready for a time skip. The time frame they're in now is pretty awful.

Poncia noticed that Julia couldn't have shot herself in the left temple because she's right handed and no one in her family noticed? or cared?

The scene with El Tigre was very hard to watch. They at least revealed that Guerra and her cohorts probably won't be able to find the mine. They revealed that the property is large and extensive. It appears he told Gabriela, but I doubt we'll see her wearing fur coats and diamonds after the time skip.
 

NovelaMaven i am dissapointed again. I thought Alicia would kill Marcos and reveal herself, and (like Julian from ATM did with his stepdad, woman and lawyer) make the club girl and Marcos deaths look like a Murder-Suicide.
Still no reveal. I was wrong for the billionth time.
 

EL ROSTRO DE VENGANZA
Novelera, thanks for the language tips. I'm gonna find a way to use that phrase, A ti te toca, for It's your turn. About the word 'comisario.' I think it means officer, if the person you're discussing is a police officer. It's used in La Patrona to describe the corrupt cop, Lagarto chacon.

LA PATRONA:
Tigre getting tortured was tough to watch, but I'm glad they didn't overdo it. I especially liked that Tigre remained strong and told Ice Queen he's at peace since his family loves him since Fer would sell her out for liqour, and Ale hates her and she'll die alone. He's reinforcing what Poncia said and the fear on guerra's face was palpable. So, I guess the writers are saying Guerra will not win in the end.

Also, interspersing the torture with Ale trying to win back Gaby made the EP less painful.

that he's at peace since
 

EL ROSTRO

J desde NYC, that excellent post about the many, many usages of tocar in Spanish was posted by NovelaMaven, not by me.
 

MADE IN CARTAGENA:

Thank you Hombre for clearing up the details of the conversations - especially with Marcos and Sofia. I was attempting to write and watch at the same time - and finding it very hard to do both and pay attention to what is being said in those heavy accents.

I knew Harvey didn't mention his son by name to Vicente - he just thought about his son as he was talking in general details with Vicente. Thanks for clearing up the gang's conversation at the clinic - when Max and Blatcho get talking fast, I can't understand anything they say.

It will definitely be interesting to find out which side Mireya is really on.
 

My bad, Novelera. Thanks so much NovelaMaven for the tips.
 

EL ROSTRO

J desde NYC -- de nada. People are always getting us confused with one another. I should probably figure out how to add an avatar, huh? :)

I have a specific visual image of "tocar": I sat with some people playing dominos and as people took their turns, they'd say: "¿me toca? " or "te toca" or "le toca a ella" (Is it my turn? Your turn. It's her turn/she goes next.)

Novelaman:
Some time back, Hombre noticed the structure some of these thriller-type novelas have. Early on, both the viewers and the characters are in the dark; but at some point that changes: we know who the villain is and we watch impatiently for the characters to catch up with us. I think this novela is close to that shift: we will know who the killer is before the other characters do (although they may have unproven suspicions.)

On the other hand, l'm probably also wrong for the billionth time. :)
 

MADE IN CARTAGENA

I'm watching this on Hulu and I'm way behind the real-time show so I haven't been following the recaps here. But I am intrigued by the language. There are no captions for this particular show so I have to listen hard. At first, characters like Candelario were completely incomprehensible to me; now I'm kind of getting used to their dialect even if I still miss a lot.

So a word like "pelados" (dudes, tipos) sounds something like /pelao/. But I noticed a final 's' get pronounced when the next word started with a vowel: "menos algo", for example. I'm not sure if that's really a rule though. I need to listen for more examples.

I do love the look and sound of this one -- the tropical rhythms, the dancing, the Cartagena background. If I ever catch up, I'll join your conversation, Hombre and Jody. Meanwhile, thanks to both of you for keeping the novela active on the page.
 

La Patrona: jueves

We now return to Alejandro Beltran and Gabriela Suarez in Search For Tomorrow, where he is still begging her to forgive him and run away with him. Gaby for her part is still holding out, even in the face of Ale in full galan mode pleading for "another chance, my love"; she's not his love, she pouts, and she never was. Ale outs that lie PDQ--he confronted his family over her! Gaby notes that's true, but he still humiliated her by doubting her and that still hurts; he broke her heart. Ale asks to let him prove that he loves her, that she's the most beautiful thing in his life...to dry her tears and heal her wounds with his kisses (let's write that one down, guys, that's gold).

Gaby brings up the elephant in the room: he won't be able to forget what his brother did to her, and that her son is his. Neither will she, goes Ale--it's a memory they'll have to deal with forever--but he's not giving her up. He'll give his family up, but not her because he loves her...oh, hell, we got tears...and there's the kiss, though Gaby's still weakly resisting the galan afterwards. They can't be together, she's leaving town...Ale's going to follow her, he's fine with being arrested for stalking her since he's crazy about her, and just to dot that last I he invokes the mighty "Look me in the face and say you don't love me, and I'll leave forever!" Gaby fails horribly at this, barely getting out a vete or two, but Ale whimsically takes pity on her; he'll leave, but he'll be right outside if she needs anything. So off he goes, and Fran pops up...there wasn't any screaming, so did she insult him? Gaby tells her Ale's outside, that he wants to go with her, and that makes Fran all giggly; isn't Gaby's heart racing? No, Gaby pouts, she's mad. Sure you are, girl. Fran goes over to the window to make sure Ale's out there...yeah, he's by his SUV asking how she is ("What's it to you?").

La Dorada: Fernando is choking Julia while still calling her a liar for saying his mother would sleep with a younger man--let alone that worthless moron Alberto Espino. Julia gets let up and swears that not only is it true, but "they're not even respecting the house that belongs to her kids." That and calling Antonia a slut again gets her another whack in the face; his mother's a saint, Fer rants, and he won't let her spread lies about her--he'll cut her tongue out first. Julia calls Fer a coward and dares him to kill her, which gets her two more whacks and "Are you so stupid you don't know who you're dealing with? What do you want?" Julia manages to stay kind of strong: she wants her freedom, she wants a divorce--or else she'll tell everyone that Antonia's banging the help. That gets her a lárgate, and on that note she bails.

Antonia and Poncia were listening to the whole thing out in the hall, so that's Poncia's cue to add more fuel to Antonia's fire of crazy by remarking that she's lost her grip on her son's wife. The Ice Queen is a little icier than usual as she tells her sombra (shadow) to shut up, right before Julia comes out; Antonia just stalks off (rocking that skin-tight one-piece and boots), while Poncia tells Julia that that was probably a bad idea. You don't treat Antonia Guerra like that. Julia bahs--she was going to have to do it someday, she says, and it's time to stop fearing her. I believe the appropriate phrase is "don't poke the bear."
 

La Patrona: jueves (p. 2)

Poncia then brings Antonia some tea in the study. Antonia is livid--how could she have given her son someone so useless? Poncia remarks that that's the price of mistakes, and it's what she gets for trying to control her sons' lives; Antonia didn't ask for her opinion, though. She's still pissed Julia had the gall to call her a slut--her! Over and over at that--oops, Antonia just pulled a Fer and smashed her cup of tea. Now the crazy is properly mirrored between generations.

Hold That Tiger (condensed): somewhere outside San Pedro, Ramon is looking through a pair of binoculars at something. Bullethead is nearby, checking a pistol, as Ramon comes over to him; Ramon's not crazy about whatever it is they're doing out there, since his job is in the mine. Bullethead advises him to take it up with Antonia, who had Bullethead bring him along; Ramon should be grateful that she got him this "special" job. Ramon wonders what's so special about waiting for Tigre (uh oh), which gets him a gun in the face and a cállate (Bullethead doesn't need exclamation points). Ramon just has to keep watch and let him know when he sees Captain Lou coming.

So he goes back to the binoculars, and now we see that he's watching a stretch of road...and here comes CL's truck now. Ramon calls that out, and Bullethead calls back to get in the car. And there's Bullethead's Dodge Neon again, pulling out onto the road to block CL's path. CL stops as Bullethead and Ramon get out and point guns (nervously in Ramon's case) at the truck--it's time, Bullethead declares. CL bahs at that--Antonia won't catch this tiger so easily--and tries to back up, but a patrol car moves in to cut that off too. That car has Lagarto and a couple of officers in it, who get out and also point guns at the truck; "You're under arrest," bellows Lagarto; CL gets out at that point and is promptly handcuffed, though he declares that he hasn't done anything. Lizardo remarks that they're finally going to cut off his fangs forever, and CL defiantly yells that once a man loses his honor he loses his manhood--and Lizardo is nothing more than Antonia's errand boy. Better that than worm food, according to Lizardo, since that's what CL is going to be--and he gets in a pow to CL's face before he's dragged off to the patrol car. CL goes off yelling at Ramon, that traitor and rata inmunda (dirty rat). Ramon for his part weakly goes "I had no idea..." and kindasorta tries to bail before Lizardo pulls a gun on him; Ramon's got to lead them to the Chamuco mine, so stop that or he'll blow Ramon's brains out. Bullethead isn't even worried as he checks in with Antonia and reports that they have CL, but dumps Ramon off with the fuzz--la patrona needs him.

The next time we see CL, he's being dragged by Lizardo and company into a section of the mine--Galeria 9, which according to Ramon was closed off over a year ago. CL is yelling all the way--for the cops to let him go, for that coward Ramon to rot in hell and lárgate!, for the officers who end up tying his wrists to an overhead rope loop to let go and fight him like real men. Lizardo in turn gets in a couple of pows before insisting that CL tell him where the El Chamuco mine is; CL death-glares at him and declares that he won't tell him anything.

Back at Casa del Suarez Fran's bruja sense makes her drop a picture of CL in front of Gaby, David and Max. She cuts herself on broken glass from the frame, but that's not important--CL's in danger, she sobs; something's happened to him.
 

La Patrona: jueves (p. 3)

After an apparently long and fruitless "interrogation" Lizardo goes to the mine offices and calls Julio at Quinta las Princesas; CL is tough, and he hasn't told him where the Chamuco mine is. Julio is all "What am I paying you for?", but Lizardo promises they'll get it out of him. After that Alberto, who was near Lizardo, worries about their keeping CL hostage in the mine; if the other miners find out... Lizardo goes "Not my problem--it was la patrona's orders."

Bullethead, after dealing with the thing Antonia needed him for, goes to the mine and relieves Lizardo...CL's unconscious and looks like he just got through a steel cage match, but he still hasn't talked. This is Bullethead's cue to rouse CL with a bucket of water (CL: "Look, la patrona's pet is here") and start getting in some pows of his own; this apparently goes on into the next day, where CL looks even worse but still hasn't told him what he wants to know. Bullethead taunts him with the promise of water, as much as he wants, if he talks...before he drowns in his own blood, that is. Bullethead then makes the mistake of pouring some water over CL's head...and CL goes for the block and the win when he spits some of it right in Bullethead's face.

That actually pisses Bullethead off, and he grabs a shovel and starts whaling away on CL's back. To their credit the camera work is such that you almost never see the actual hits, but between CL crying out in pain and Bullethead's manic face...it's still kind of unsettling.

Meanwhile, Antonia and Anibal are back at LD discussing the CL issue. Antonia notes that he was headed to Mexico City to register the mine, so she had to act immediately; Anibal goes no, she knows he's got connections at the Ministry of Mining. She didn't have to kidnap CL, and she didn't do it for the gold--but for her obsession with her grandson. She's put their business in jeopardy because of her personal affairs. The Ice Queen's wall of smug is in full effect as she replies she also takes care of his affairs, such as his spotless image...see, CL had this list on him. Anibal hmms at the list, which is of journalists in Mexico City--though he calls them "as useless as that Goicochea guy," which probably means they're good people. Antonia declares that Gaston and CL wanted to ruin their reputation nationwide, which could easily have led to investigations into their pasts. So did she rush into things? Hell, they've been too patient.

Fran briefly checks in with Gaston...no, he hasn't heard from CL either. Gaston suggests that perhaps his truck broke down...yeah... FF>

Antonia herself pays CL a visit at the mine, and compliments him on being as strong and stubborn as she is. CL says that that's why she has to know torturing him is useless; he'll take his secrets to the grave. Antonia riles him up with "Are you bringing Gaby too?" before making him an offer--tell her where the Chamuco mine is, and she promises he, his kids, and his wife will all walk away alive. Even beaten to a pulp CL knows that's bullshit; he knows he's a dead man, but he also knows that one day...no matter how coja (weak) justice may be...it will catch up to you, Antonia Guerra!
 

La Patrona: jueves (p. 4)

Antonia reminds him that he's talking to (wait for it...) la patrona, and Captain Lou wins the round when he declares that "a bitch may be rich, but it will always be a bitch." Antonia gives him a really weak whack for that, but at this CL goes on to win the bonus round: she can kill him whenever she wants, but he'll go in peace knowing his family loves him. And her, well...her younger son's a drunk, her older son despises her and will hate her ("Cállate!" "Cállate tu!"), and in the end she will die alone. Tomas Suarez is indeed the best Suarez.

Antonia tries one last time to appeal to him through "their" grandson David; he'd benefit the most from the mine, right? She could make him her heir. David, CL growls, will never be hers no matter how much she tries to buy him--he's a Suarez, and when he finds out what she did to him he'll be her first executioner. And CL will see Antonia in hell, where they will settle everything face to face. Antonia leaves after that, but not before giving Bullethead an order--to "pull out the tiger's claws"--and he goes after CL's hands with a pair of pliers as she struts off, outside, and orders/threatens a cop stationed there to not let anybody into that area. The Pig Posse sees her leave, and Guillen is the one who wonders why there's a cop there in the first place.

SPDO: Julia is downing champagne at the Club of Whatever with some extras and drunkenly toasting to her freedom and being free of a "curse"...heck, champagne all around! Antonia Guerra, her dear suegra, is buying. Gaston, who's just in the background with his own drink, greets Ricardo as he comes in; Ricardo heads over to Julia, who gets him some champagne too. Antonia's buying it, of course, since she pays for everything--Julia's food, her clothes, her dignity...salud!

Ricardo calls Patty offscreen and stays with Julia until she shows up, and they both manage to get Julia out of there. This leads to the minor-but-we-need-it hilarity of Gaston congratulating Julia on her decision to get away from that family of indeseables (undesirables) and Julia drunkenly but gaily calling out ¡Gracias! as she's all but dragged out.

CDS: Gaby (it's the return of the funky blue nightwear with the translucent undertop, and I'm thinking it's actually been a while since the cleavage has manifested like this) takes another peek out the window to check on Ale, who blows her a kiss. Gaby doesn't let him see how happy she is, though when David comes downstairs and asks if Ale loves her--he wouldn't be camped out there if he didn't, right?--she says she doesn't know what to think. Then again, as the protagonista a certain amount of confusion is inevitable.

A little later Fran checks in; she was praying to the Virgen to keep CL safe, but he's still not answering his phone. Gaby suggests that perhaps his phone died and Fran just needs to relax; Fran checks on Ale through the window and suggests they take him some food, which Gaby vehemently denies--but later Fran takes some along with a pillow and blanket out to him. He's asleep in his car anyway, though when he wakes up and notices the gifts he gets a big smile on his face. After that there's some stuff with Gaby letting him sleep on her couch because he looks pathetic out in his car and his asking Lucia Suarez via Gaby's medallion for her daughter's hand, but forget that. FF>>>
 

La Patrona: jueves (p. 5)

Urge Overkill: Ricardo and Patty bring Julia home to LD, with her declaring that she's leaving this maldito town and their maldito bosses, and they leave (Julia gets a kiss in on Ricardo along the way, which embarrasses Patty). Julia wobbles into her bedroom, just in time to get grabbed by Bullethead--and Antonia welcomes her with "Now call me slut to my face."

Julia thus ends up tied to a chair, gagged, and forced to listen to Antonia monologuing right out of the Universal Villain Guide: there's nothing that can save her, Antonia thought she was so nice when she first got together with Fer but she turned out to be obnoxious and barren and bad in bed--oh, and her "lack of creativity" is why Fer's an alcoholic. Not to mention the whole telling Fer she's a slut thing...mala, mala, mala! So in the end Julia can leave the house one of two ways--she can shoot herself with that revolver, or she can overdose on those sleeping pills.

Antonia urges her to choose--and stop crying, or she'll choose for her--and Julia manages to signal that she'd prefer the sleeping pills, which Antonia approves of. Painless and clean, after all. She has Bullethead undo Julia's gag and Julia promptly begs not to die, but when she gets screechy the gag goes back on. And Antonia declares that now, yes, she will die...

Fer, sleeping in his room, is awakened by a single gunshot. He runs into Julia's room, where she is now slumped in the chair--no rope, no gag, and no Bullethead--but there's a bullet hole in her left temple and the revolver is now on the floor by her left foot. Fer wonders what happened, and Antonia's answer is obvious--she killed herself. Fer is apparently just sober enough to see through it--"You did it again, Mom!" he yells over her protests before running out. Poncia comes in, sees the scene, and just bitchfaces Antonia for a few seconds. Antonia asks her what she's looking at, and Poncia declares that obviously Antonia never really knew Julia--Julia couldn't have killed herself like this, since she wasn't left-handed. (I'll let that slide; for someone who's so far under Antonia's thumb, the fact that Poncia's allowed to be so confident in her defiance in-show is just odd IMO.)

And now, Johnny Cash spinning in his grave:

So if your nuera's triflin', you can let her run
Or you can tie her down and do her like Julia got done.
Julia's gone, pobrecita, Julia's gone;
Julia's gone, pobrecita, Julia's gone.

Quinta las Princesas: after bringing her home, Ricardo and Patty stayed up just having drinks and being friends; Patty apparently doesn't tell him about Alberto specifically, but he guesses she's having some sort of romantic problem. She's feeling better after talking to him, though that goes straight to hell when she gets a late call from Antonia...and as she bursts into tears, as Julio and Irene and Prudencia come in, she shrieks that Julia killed herself. Pru goes ahead and faints in Julio's arms.

Back to La Dorada, where Fer is telling Antonia that he didn't want Julia to die--he's sick and tired of her including him in her crimes. Antonia is all "What crimes? I never killed anybody," though she holds off on the Jedi hand wave until Fer mentions his father and Marcelo and now Julia; she didn't kill his dad or Marcelo, they died of natural causes. And Julia...well, he saw her that afternoon insulting and offending them--and that's something Antonia couldn't allow. Fer goes "See, you admit it!" to that, but the Ice Queen simply wants him to calm down--the Montemars will be there soon.
 

La Patrona: jueves (p. 6)

Fer's willpower runs out at this point and he resignedly asks what Antonia wants him to tell them; she replies nothing...she just wants them to feel his pain. Speaking of which...he's obviously had a stressful day...he probably could use a drink. But this, she lies, will be his last one.

When los Montemar shows up with Ricardo in tow Antonia is all "I wish we could have stopped her in time...Julia was so depressed over Fer's child with Gaby," though Patty and Irene are both skeptical--Julia was really happy when they saw her earlier, talking about how she was going to be free from her miserable life and so on. Antonia gives Fer the "Help me, damn you" stare, but all a guilty-looking Fer can say is that it's all his fault--Julia's dead because of him--before stalking off. Julio and a sobbing Pru are all "What did he mean? He'll pay for this!" before Antonia tries to spin it as a figure of speech...besides, he was in his bedroom when it happened and she was the first one to find Julia's body. Patty notes that they all knew Fer was abusive towards Julia; here comes the Jedi hand wave again as Antonia claims that no, they loved each other very much but fought occasionally like all couples. And that's why Julia was so affected by finding out about Fer's child...well...okay, there was one other thing that Julia told her in secret: Gaby told Julia that she was going to take her husband.

Ricardo calls that absurd--Gaby had accused Fer of rape! But your investigation proved there was no rape, Antonia retorts. Pru, meanwhile, is all in for the lie: "What else did Julia tell you?" And Antonia spins a yarn of how Gaby had been harassing Julia, calling her several times a day (and Irene becomes dead to me as she claims that Julia had told her about that too)...why, Gaby's the real culprit behid Julia's death. It's going to be a long, long wait for payback for this.

The next day at CDS Gaby, not seeing Ale anywhere, is hugging and sniffing his pillow like it's a Gain commercial...drat, there's Ale now. He got up early and took a shower. Gaby asks why he didn't leave at dawn like she asked him during the FF>>> part, and he's all smooth "You are my sun, girl, and you just came downstairs." Gaby tells him she's off to the cemetery to go say goodbye to her mother, and when he says he'll come along gently refuses; there are still too many wrong things between him and her, including his family hating her. Ale reassures her that he's turned his back on them, that she's the most important thing, and that convinces her to take him along.

Of course, Julia's funeral is being held in the cemetery that morning (come to San Pedro del Oro, where we'll bury anybody in less than 24 hours or it's free). Patty and Pru are still sobbing and/or collapsing, Ricardo's there with Patty, Lizardo is in the back with his hand on his gun, Antonia is off to the side with Anibal wondering where Fer is (she "had to give him some sedatives, since he was so devastated")...and there go Ale and Gaby. Pru runs after that desgraciada and gets held back before she can claw anything, though she's the one who goes "My daughter's dead because of you!" Gaby and Ale are fairly impactada, and Julio has to be held back when he yells he's going to kill that damn minera. There's nowhere to go from there but down, however; Irene yells that Gaby "ensnared" Julia's husband, Gaby calls her a backstabber that's only safe at the moment because Patty's there, more shoving and screaming...
 

La Patrona: jueves (p. 7)

Gaby finally just gives Patty specifically her condolences and bails with Ale right behind her. Antonia's not crazy about that at all--these people are family, Julia was like a daughter to her, Fer's devastated and he's chasing after that? Ale declares that, hey, she made him choose between her and Gaby--he's made his choice--and gets Gaby out of there. Antonia's wearing those Visitor sunglasses again, so we can't see her death-glaring them.

SPDO: at the Doll House Ramon is just finishing off a bottle of booze with a comely lass. He tells her to go bring him another bottle, but an expensive one this time...yeah, extras at the next table, check it out. He's got a lot of money now...money from la patrona...and that means he's now a man in her confidence (inner circle, CC3 says). Ramon notices Fer plop himself down in the next room with a lady in his lap (honor that late wife's memory, man!) and goes over to offer he have a drink with the pobres; Fer tells him to lárgate, but Ramon ain't having it. He's loyal to los Beltran, the most loyal of them all--even if it means life in prison. But he didn't want to...but la patrona made him...

Fer is understandably puzzled about what the hell Ramon is talking about; what'd Antonia force him to do? Ramon nearly breaks into tears as he declares that he had had to betray someone, like Judas betrayed Jesus...he betrayed Tigre Suarez. Fer is actually a little surprised by that.

CDS: Fran is telling Ale and Gaby how her "hunch" is convincing her CL is in danger. Ale advises her not to panic over it, but Gaby isn't so sure now--Julia's dead now, after all, and Fran sensed that death was close to her before that. Ale's still not convinced it's not just coincidence, and says that CL's probably fine--but he definitely should have called them by now, says Fran. In theory he was supposed to end up staying with one of the journalists on Gaston's list, but nobody kept a copy of said list...Ale and Gaby head out for Radio San Pedro to rectify that.

And after her busy morning Antonia heads back to LD, where Alberto is waiting for her in the study; how can he help her? Antonia knows he's ambitious, it's obvious...and she needs a favor from him. It's a serious favor, but if he does it he'll be rich, no longer a mere engineer...is he willing to "go all the way" for that power? We don't see exactly what she tells him next, but his reaction isn't exactly gung-ho: "You want me to help you kill someone?" More like killing two birds with one stone, according to Antonia--one of which is CL, who after all punched him in front of the workers. He can get back at him and get rich at the same time. Alberto processes that for a second; if CL is one bird, then who's the other one? It's the woman, Antonia says, she's hated more than anyone in her life: Gabriela Suarez--she wants her to die alongside her father.

Fer just happens to be going by the study while this powwow is going on, however, and apparently even though the doors are closed he happens to hear the tail end of this. I suppose the walls are really thin or something...they wouldn't really do something to Fer now, would they?
 

This novela is getting good but I need them to make the time jump like now!!!!
 

Agree, awesome recap and Antonia is one wicked beast!