Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Lo que la vida me robó, ep. 160, Tues. 6/24/14: Shut up! No, you shut up! No, YOU shut up!

Graciela continues her conversation with Montserrat. 

She tells her daughter that her marriage to that Sad Deluded Bastard José Luis will be invalid, and she'll be able to go back to the man she loves. 

"No, that won't be possible," says Montserrat miserably.  "For Alejandro's freedom, I had to swear that I'd never see him again."

Graciela is aghast. "What's the matter with you?  Why did you do that? José Luis did absolutely nothing to help Alejandro!  I was the one who got him out of jail!"

Montserrat is stunned.  Could her mother be telling the truth?  Nah.  "For one second, I actually believed you," she says.

"I'm not lying, Montserrat.  Maybe José Luis unlocked the door of his cell so he could leave.  But it was Judge Esperón who gave the order to release him after he talked to me -- to your mother!"


"What a good liar you are.  You get better each time.  Congratulations!"

"Listen to me, Montserrat!  When Fabiola pointed a gun at me and forced me to confess to you what I told the judge, you hated me.  I could never bear that pain.  Now that you know that I talked to the judge and rectified my error, I hope you can forgive me and find a little bit of love in your heart for me."

Montserrat remains skeptical. "Let's assume that what you're saying is true.  What did you tell the judge?"

"I told the judge that Benjamín Almonte was poisoned," says Graciela, "but that it wasn't Alejandro who did it -- it was Juventino Zamudio.  I told him that Sandro falsified the DNA results.  And I told him that a different will exists -- the true document -- and the one presented in court was a forgery." 

"And how do you know all this, mom?"

Graciela explains how Sandro came back to Aguazul and told her he wanted a serious relationship with her.  "I let him believe -- in my way -- that I was interested too.  He let down his guard and confided to me what he had done to fix the trial and take everything away from Alejandro."

Refugio and Mónica are ashamed and shocked in the aftermath of Esmeralda's inopportune appearance.  
(Though really, who wears Federico de Campeche to greet an unexpected visitor?)

"I feel very bad, Refugio," says the captain.  "I'm ashamed that all this is happening to you because of me."

Refugio sighs and buries his face in his hands (as well he should).

"I'm so sorry," continues Mónica.  "I just don't know why Esmeralda came here."

"I'm an idiot, I'm an idiot," says Refugio.

["You're not wrong, dude!" snickers someone on The Patio.  Cap'n Sylvia, was that you?]

He continues: 

"Not long ago I admitted to Esmeralda that I was attracted to you..." 

--Mónica turns her head away. Ufff.

"...but I said that it was all in my head and nothing had ever happened.  I guess she didn't believe me, and she followed me here.  Oh God!  And now she saw something that wasn't what it looked like and I've lost her forever because I'm an idiot."

"Go to the hospital!"

Whoa! Somebody's neurons are firing!  Monica tells him that his baby's birth is what matters right now.  She promises she will talk to Esmeralda and make sure she understands he did nothing wrong.  

Montserrat isn't buying what Graciela is selling.

"Sandro may have been a player," she tells her mother, "but Fabiola, Medina and you were also involved.  That's why you told all those lies when Pedro called you to testify."

"I didn't know the details.  They were just suspicions. Sandro confirmed a lot of things. That's why I decided to talk openly to the judge about all the injustices committed in the trial..."  

Graciela works up a good PseudoSob -- 

"I only did it to help you and my son-in-law."

"I wasn't expecting you to do something like that."

"The judge explained that it was a serious crime and I'll probably face criminal charges.  I'll likely lose my freedom, but..."

Graciela takes her daughter's hands in her own and says in her most sincere growl: 

"...I did it all for you, Montserrat -- so you would realize that I love you -- because a mother's love is infinite."

Montserrat squeezes her mother's shoulder and compliments her on her impersonation of the self-sacrificing mother.  

"But let's hear from Graciela -- who do you love more?  Me?  Or the inheritance that Alejandro is going to give you when he recovers it?  

Because I still don't understand.  It's true that you're helping.  But I also know perfectly well what you stand to gain when all this is settled."

¡¡¡¡AY AY AY AY AY!!!!!
Look Ma, No Epidural!  

Zulema sits at Esmeralda's bedside and urges her friend to  breathe, to be calm.  Hah.  Esme -- still wearing her bright coral shirt -- squeezes Zulema's hand so hard, it hurts. Where's the doctor??? Between screams, Esme manages to extract a promise from Zulema: she is not to let Refugio come near her or her baby.  ¡Esa no se la voy a perdonaaaaaaarrrrrr!
(I'm not going to forgive him for that!)

And THIS is how you thank me?

Graciela is exasperated by Montserrat's cynical reaction to her grand gesture.  Apparently, where her daughter is concerned, she can't do anything right.  She risked going to jail for her.  Does she get a thank you?  A hug?  A teddy bear with "Te quiero mami" on his belly? (ok, I made up the osito de peluche, but she says the other stuff).  No, as always, she gets attacked.  Montserrat is so unfair!

"Okay, what did the judge say?" asks Montserrat.  "Is he going to support Alejandro?  Does he believe in his innocence?"

"Of course.  I convinced him of it.  He issued an order to release Alejandro from jail.  Meanwhile, what were you doing, princess?  You were stupidly agreeing to give up the love of your life!"

"I was desperate, mom.  I didn't want Alejandro to go to prison and I couldn't bear having my son see him behind bars.  Are those good enough reasons?"

"Well yes, and then for that fourth-rate sailor (or is it fifth-rate? Is it just me or does he keep getting his rating lowered like a human junk bond or something?) to take the credit (parándose el cuello) when I was the one who..."

At that very moment, the Sad Deluded Bastard José Luis swaggers in. "I was the one who did what?" he asks.  But he doesn't wait for an answer.  He tells Montserrat that she can relax:

"It wasn't easy to convince him, but I got the judge to issue an order for Alejandro's release.  I personally opened his cell and let him out.  
Como quedamos, a partir de hoy y gracias a mí, Alejandro es un hombre libre
(As we agreed, as of today and thanks to me, Alejandro is a free man.)

Graciela and Montserrat listen to this smugly recited lie.  The Patio has never seen mother and daughter as close as they are at this moment, joined by their common disdain for the Sad Deluded Bastard José Luis.  Montserrat walks up to him and tells him right to his face:

"You're a hypocrite.  A liar!  You had nothing to do with Alejandro's release!"

"The game is over, José Luis," says Graciela.

"Why were you toying with me like that, José Luis?  Once again, you manipulated me so I would do what you wanted."

"How dare you call me a hypocrite and a liar, Montserrat!  You're a fake (una falsa)!  Hm?  You're the one who ended up being an exact copy of your mother!"

This, oddly enough, offends Graciela.  She warns the Sad Deluded Bastard de JL to watch his mouth.  He tells her to shut it.  She won't be shut up by the likes of him.

"You shut up when I tell you to," shouts the SDB de JL.  "That's what I pay you for.  You're my employee!"

"¿Perdón?" says Montserrat, turning from one to the other.  Did she hear that right?

The SDB figures it no longer matters if Montserrat knows about it.  "Your mother and I made a deal."

Montserrat's jaw drops.  "What kind of deal?"

In answer, Graciela holds up a piece of paper.  "Here's the last check this piece of filth gave me.  When this loser got out of jail, he came looking for me.  He promised to pay me monthly for the rest of my life so I would help get you to marry him, the same way I once helped Alejandro."

Montserrat looks on in horror as the other two dispute the terms of the deal.  The Sad Deluded Bastard says he was paying her to butt out, not to butt in.  But she sets the record straight:

"You wouldn't have gotten anywhere without my help.  I let Montserrat see the recording that Alejandro left on his cell phone.  Without that video, she wouldn't have looked at you.  She married you out of generosity or out of gratitude -- but not out of love, you fool!"

Esmeralda's labor is proceeding apace.  
She is completely D I L A T E D! 

The cheerful lady doctor arrives with encouraging news of her progress.  Two male attendants follow and they wheel Esme's bed to the delivery room.  "Concentrate, Esmeralda!" she tells herself. "Concentrate!"

Graciela is a free agent since the SDB forgot to include a non-compete clause.

Graciela tears up the check, thus terminating the contract.  From now on, she's on Team Princesa.  She's backing her beautiful daughter and her golden son-in-law.

Thinking like a man of business, the Sad Deluded Bastard wants to know what Alejandro is offering.  Maybe he can come up with a sweeter deal.  But Graciela says it is something priceless --  the happiness of her daughter and her grandson.  

The SDB is scornful.  He knows Montserrat's happiness has never mattered to Graciela.  If it had, she would never have come between him and Montse in the past -- when Montse did love him. 

"There you have it.  I wasn't wrong.  A mother is never wrong," says Graciela.

"Shut up, will you?"

But she won't:
  
En el fondo, siempre supe que a ti te faltaba lo que a Alejandro le sobra para llenar en todos los sentidos a una mujer hecha y derecha
(In my heart, I always knew that you lacked what Alejandro has in spades -- the right stuff to satisfy IN EVERY SENSE OF THE WORD a grown woman's needs.)

"My daughter was always too much woman for you," she adds.

"Shut up!" shouts the Sad Deluded Bastard.

"You shut up!" shouts Graciela.

Montserrat walks up to the SDB and slaps his face.  Hard.   Bien, mi amor, says Graciela, applauding.  Muy bien.  

But not for long.  Montserrat wheels around and delivers a resounding slap to her mother's face.  Otra vez me vendiste, Mamá.  (You sold me again.)  She shakes her head sadly.

Josefina wonders what is happening with Alejandro.  

Adolfo doesn't know.  He's relieved, though, that Victor is no longer hiding in her house.  He is afraid of how Pedro will react if he learns that Fina has been hiding the fugitives.  She's afraid too, but she is going to keep helping her friends.  And so will he, says Adolfo. 

Fina and Adolfo are surprised by the arrival of Alejandro and Victor, both looking grim.  Did Alejandro escape from jail?

They explain that the Sad Deluded Bastard has set him free.  They decided to come back to her house because now there is no reason to hide.   

Of course they are welcome, says Fina, but she and Adolfo are puzzled.  What happened?

Alejandro tells them of the deal Montserrat made with the Sad Deluded Bastard.  Adolfo reminds them that Pedro Medina is still gunning for them.  At this point, jail may be the least of their problems -- their very lives are at stake here.

You struck the woman who gave you life!

"You never laid a hand on me before!" says Graciela the Tragedy Queen.  "I'm your mother, Montserrat.  How could you?"

"I just pray that God forgives me for the tiny remnant of love I still feel for you. Now leave!"

"You're right," whimpers the Tragedy Queen.  "Pray for God's forgiveness for what you just did to your mother.  I'm going to keep fighting for your happiness."  

She gives Montserrat an angry, aggressive blessing (no, seriously) and then turns her attention to the Sad Deluded Bastard.  She warns him that from now on she will be his worst enemy.  She even lands a few head pokes before leaving.

Now Montserrat gets her licks in.  

She reminds him of how he mouthed off (te llenaba la boca) that Alejandro was unworthy of her because he bought her love; and now he has ended up doing the same thing.

"You can't blame me, Montserrat.  Once I lost you because I didn't have enough money.  I tried to reach you by appealing to your heart.  I failed.  This time it was different because I not only reached your heart, I met your price.

"No, I never loved you. I was confused.  I thought what I felt for you was love because Alejandro hadn't yet come into my life.  But I cared for you -- so much so that I married you because I thought you deserved to be happy because of all the sacrifices and losses in your life.  And now all I feel for you is disgust (asco).

"Despréciame.  Despréciame si quieres."  
"Despise me if you want.  You felt disgust for Alejandro when you married him.  Hm?  And look how you ended up in love with him.  The same thing can happen with me."

"No, don't kid yourself.  You're not Alejandro.  You never made me feel what he stirs in me."

"We'll see about that," answers the Sad Deluded Bastard.

"Alejandro was right," says Montserrat.  "You must have been planning this for the seven years you were in jail.  You knew that video existed because you were the one who recorded my husband's words.  You knew my mother had the phone because you gave it to her in the hospital after I was shot."

José Luis denies none of what she says.

"You offered her money knowing she would show me the video, knowing the guilt I would feel when I saw it and I  realized how unfair I had been to you.  You took advantage of that to make me give in to you more and more.

"What a brilliant mind you have," says José Luis scathingly.

"Never again criticize Alejandro for the way he behaved with me. What you did was a thousand times worse.  Forget about the sacrifice you forced me to make.  You had nothing to do with freeing my husband.

"You're the one who is mistaken, Montserrat.  You're going to have to keep your promise. Hm?  You're going to have to give him up, whether you want to or not.  This time, it's not about whether Alejandro stays in jail or not.  This time, his life is at stake.  I swear to you that if you screw him again, I'll get out my pistol and I'll kill him, and then I'll kill you and then I'll kill myself.  Got it?  How our story ends depends on you."

Rosario gets The Rest of the Story

Rosario approaches Montserrat as the younger woman sits at her dresser and weeps.  Montse explains that the Poor Deluded Bastard -- henceforth known as Mad Dog José Luis -- had nothing to do with Alejandro's release.  It was her mother who got him out of jail after retracting the statement she made to the judge seven years ago.  It was Graciela's original lie that forced Alejandro to flee and set in motion all the other tragic events of the intervening years; and it was her confessing the truth that liberated Alejandro this time around.

Rosario is furious.  That Graciela has finally spoken up changes nothing for her.  Nor for her, agrees Montserrat.

"Then you're not obligated to keep your promise to Mad Dog JL," says Rosario.  Montserrat whispers JL's terrible threat.  Rosario understands.  He made the same threat to her, she says.

Delivery or Take-out?

Esmeralda is at last on the delivery table and dressed for the occasion.  With one final and noisy push, baby Solares leaves the peaceful waters of the womb and emerges into morally murky Bluewater.  His joyful mother takes him in her arms.

Zulema and Amelia get the word.  A few minutes later, they are admiring the baby through the nursery window.  Then Refugio joins them.  He marvels at his child.  Meanwhile, Zulema gives him the stinkeye.

Someone else lines up to take credit for Alejandro's release.

Carlota hugs and kisses Ezequiel.  She is so grateful to him for helping Alejandro.  "Thanks to me, Alejandro is a free man," agrees the mendacious little man.  How could he refuse her a favor?  He certainly couldn't live without her delicious cooking -- and other delights.  He warns her, however, that Pedro Medina represents a great danger to Alejandro.

Refugio Begone!

Amelia hugs Refugio and congratulates him.  Zulema tries to chase Refugio away.  He has some nerve showing up here after betraying Esmeralda.  Refugio tries to explain that it wasn't what it looked like.  But after Zulema tells the story, Amelia understands why Esme asked her about divorce lawyers the other day.  Refugio is outnumbered and outclassed.  He slinks away.

¡A ella le hace falta Jesús!

Rosario catches Alejandro up on Graciela's latest -- the original sin and the retraction.  "She's always telling people they need Jesus, but she's the one who really needs Him."  Graciela's soul is dark and shriveled, and she is responsible for their seven years of sorrow.

"So that bastard José Luis had nothing to do with my release?  And he forced Montserrat to make him that promise?"

"That man wants to kill you!"

"I don't blame him.  I want to kill him too.  I have to get my family back, whatever it takes."

"Don't let your jealousy blind you.  Don't make the same mistake again of trying to take a human life.  Think of your son and your family.  We have to find another solution."

"I'm going crazy, mom.  Every minute Montserrat spends with that man makes me sick. My wife is in danger."

Rosario tells him that Mad Dog José Luis was paying Graciela to help him win over Montserrat.  Alejandro always suspected as much.  He's only surprised that she admitted it.  

Rosario is very frightened for Alejandro.  What will happen when Pedro Medina finds out he's in Aguazul?  JL hates him so much, he's capable of telling him himself.

Alejandro gives his mother a reassuring hug.  He has faith that all will be well.

The Marina

Mónica speaks sharply to Dimitrio when he enters her office without knocking.   Reminding him that he is suspended, she orders him to leave or she'll have him removed.  But he's not going anywhere until she listens to him.  

She's not interested in anything he has to say.  He has just been toying with her feelings.  But she does have a question for him: If she had been unfaithful, would he have forgiven her?

"If you came back to me, and you realized that you loved me, yes."

"Well that's good to know -- because last night I almost slept with Refugio."

Dimitrio and Mónica stare at one another.

After the agony, the ecstasy

Esmeralda is sitting up in bed, holding her baby in her arms.  She is all smiles, and her little support group of the socialite and the stripper are smiling too.  In answer to Esme's question about nursing and weight loss, Amelia gives her a little lesson on nutrition.  Even Zulema chimes in, and encourages Esme to dance at home to speed the recovery of her figure.

"Did Refugio come to see me?"

Zulema says he was there the night before (Esmeralda can't quite suppress a smile at hearing this); as instructed, she chased him away.  

Montserrat arrives, followed by Mad Dog JL's goon.  He has to be shooed away.  Can't he see she's visiting a woman who just had a baby?

"Is everything all right, Montserrat?" asks Amelia.  Montserrat says tartly that it is not, especially now that she has found out the secret that Amelia helped Mad Dog JL conceal.  "And by the way, thanks for that."

Alejandro, fetching in his sea-green tee shirt, confronts Mad Dog JL in his office.  He doesn't accept Montserrat's sacrifice, he tells him, especially knowing that JL manipulated her to get her to make that promise.  JL did nothing for him and he intends to continue seeing HIS wife as often as he likes.

"Perdón?  I did nothing for you?  I was in jail for seven years so you could be happy with Montserrat."

Alejandro stands and clenches his jaw.  He says nothing.

Mad Dog continues:

"Once you told me you owed me.  If you don't remember, I'll remind you.  And I told you -- I warned you -- that the day would come when you would have to pay that debt."

"You'll have to kill me to separate me from Montserrat," replies Alejandro quietly.

"If that's what I have to do..."

"Try it.  But Montserrat would never forgive you."

Mad Dog laughs.  "I don't have to do it. There are other ways to kill you.  How do you think Pedro Medina will react when he finds out you're in Aguazul?"

Alejandro almost smiles.  "How low you've fallen."

Who let this guy in?

As Montserrat fusses over the new baby, Refugio slips in behind a huge floral arrangement.  Esmeralda refuses to meet his gaze.

Mad Dog José Luis stakes his claim

"Believe me, this time, damn the consequences.  It's my turn. I'd give my soul for this -- all I want is to rip you out of Montserrat's life forever."

"I don't care about the consequences either. And what a shame that you're still the same coward."

"Oh please," says Mad Dog, making a dismissive shushing sound.  "Don't waste any more of my time.  Get out.  Hide from Pedro Medina.  Who's the coward?  Get out."

Mónica waits for Dimitrio to respond to her confession.  

She assumes that his silence means that he is less forgiving in reality than in theory.

"You humiliated me, Dimitrio.  I went looking for Refugio to get even with you.  But don't worry.  At the last minute, we regretted what we were about to do.  You know why?  Because he stopped himself.  He thought about Esmeralda, the woman he loved.  It's good that you don't forgive me; because I don't forgive you either."

"I do forgive you."

"I don't trust you anymore.  You could do it again.  Why don't you clarify your feelings for Josefina and stop playing with mine?"

"I know what I did was wrong.  Everyone kept telling me that I still felt something for Fina.  Even though I was with you and wanted to be with you, I started to wonder.  And that doubt kept me from being with you one hundred percent.  Sleeping with Josefina was the only way to resolve the doubt.  It was foolish and wrong, I know.  And I knew I would probably lose you if I did it.  But I gambled everything.  Because I want everything.  With you, I want everything."

Dimitrio kneels in front of Mónica and continues:

"I want to get up every morning and go to bed every night with you; to live my whole life with you; and I want to die with you."

He holds up a diamond ring and formally proposes:
Mónica, ¿quieres casarte conmigo?

The stony face of Captain Rentería softens.  Her eyes look suspiciously pink.

Rosario delivers a warning to Graciela

Manuela greets Rosario warmly.  Is Graciela in?  She is.  Manuela invites her into the living room where Graciela stands, arms akimbo, ready for battle.

"What are you doing in MY house?" she growls.

"I came to tell you that one way or another, you're going to pay for the seven years that my son spent in a coma because of you."

A shadow falls across Pedro Medina's desk.  

He looks up; and when he recognizes the figure in front of him, he utters a single word:  ¿Tú?

"I came here, Pedro," says Alejandro -- for yes, gentle reader, it is he, our fair and fearless hero -- "to tell you personally that I woke up from the coma and now I'm here in Aguazul."


Avances:  Pedro Medina points a gun at Alejandro's beautiful brow.

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Comments:
Please, I hope the writers aren’t going to go down the Monica/Dim path with tonight’s episode of Dim proposing to Monica. I know I’m biased because I don’t like rigid Monica for many reasons, including her total lack of morality or sensitivity concerning Esmeralda who did nothing to her. Please tell me that Monica will refuse Dim or that in the end Dim will see Josefina as his true love. I want Esme to send Refugio to hell and not back. He’s such a jerk. It’s my personal belief that any blogger that says he is forgiven because he backed out at the last minute doesn’t understand fidelity.

On a personal note, I’ve been married for 40 years this year. I married a Dominican guy I met at the age of 15 and married at 20. I still remember the priest’s warning to me during marriage counseling that Latin men usually have lovers, plus my husband’s business, hotel management, made temptation even worse. After seeing how my father-in-law would spend days away from my husband’s wonderful mother because of his mistress, I made sure that I would never put up with “hanky-panky” of any kind. I work in a male-dominated industry (building foundation engineering, a/k/a geotechnical engineering) and my husband works in a predominantly female industry. My stance on this issue has made for a wonderfully successfully marriage. Forgiveness is one thing, but true love is based on complete confidence and understanding. How can Esme ever trust Refugio again? As one blogger wrote about last night’s episode, Refugio did the whole marriage proposal and mariachi thing after treating Esme like crap for months. Esme should do what she loves most – dance and be a mom.

Of course, I’m still on the Adolfo bandwagon, hoping somehow he can redeem himself (maybe by turning states’ evidence against Pedro). It’s a TN so all things are possible. But most bloggers tend to believe Adolfo will be killed off in the end. I was so moved by his tears for Josefina. I’ve been watching some earlier episodes and really am beginning to understand the complexity of the relationship between Adolfo and Maria, all the way back to the “hacienda” days. But even back then, as bad a boy as Adolfo was, there was good in him at that time. Remember he tried to get Dim to leave Monse alone and not blackmail her about J.L. being at the hacienda? I’ve always sensed a conflicted Adolfo.

Does anyone think that Gracie is actually turning a page and trying to do what is best for Monse? Tonight’s episode really had me wondering. Although when Monse asked her if she just was doing all this for Ale’s inheritance, Gracie didn’t say “no, I don’t want his money, just your happiness”. But somehow I think Gracie’s turning against J.L. is more than just wanting Ale’s money. Tell me I’m reading things wrong, but the whole scene left me wondering.

Most of all, I thought Ale’s calling J.L. a coward brought us all the way back to the beginning of the novella when J.L. didn’t have the courage to talk to Monse’s father about wanting to marry her. Even Padre Anselmo commented many times on J.L. cowardliness. I believe the only way the writers will redeem J.L. is for him to die while possibly saving Ale and/or Monse’s life. Remember Adolfo in Amor Real?

Unfortunately the previews, don’t tell us much about what will happen tomorrow. I loved the ending though --- Ale showing up at Pedro’s. Wasn’t that GREAT! Talk about a cliff-hanger ending!

 

Hi folks,

Mr. Maven and I just got back from San Diego and the wedding of our dear daughter. We are now officially part of a marvelous Mexican-American family that really knows how to have a good time.

When I asked my daughter if she would call herself Ms. Maven, Ms. Maven-Sabelotodo, or Mrs. Sabelotodo, she told me she was opting for the third choice. Then my yerno chimed in that for the past two weeks, she had been prefacing nearly every remark with these words: "As a proud Latina woman..."

So as the mother of a proud Latina woman...

Enjoy the recap!
 

Novela Maven,

I wish that I'd known that you were gonna be in San Diego. I've always wondered what you look like. I would have come and met you. I live in San Diego too. Next time, email me so that we can meet for coffee or something. I already have a date with CathyX is she comes here. Where was the wedding? What side of town? That is awesome! Congratulations! Cynderella
 

Wow! This was worth staying up for.

My faves:

¡¡¡¡AY AY AY AY AY!!!!! Look Ma, No Epidural!

Graciela is a free agent since the SDB forgot to include a non-compete clause.

Is it just me or does he keep getting his rating lowered like a human junk bond or something?


In true Mob Tradition I will henceforth refer to him as Mad Dog Alvarez.

And we got two slaps heard across Mexico.

No, Gracie isn't repenting. She's doing what every clever grifter does: Manipulating her victims. No matter what she says to either of her children she won't stop butting into their lives. Monserrat has her number.

 

NovelaMaven: Congratulations on your daughter's wedding! As a middle age US woman, married to a Latin guy and living in Central and South America during the 80s, I could never get use to being "Victoria de Gomez". Did I really belong to my husband like a piece of property with the "de Gomez" part. As much as I tried to use just Victoria Gomez, it never worked. Thank godness we finally moved back to the States where I could use Ms. but not with my maiden name (that would have been a little bit too much for my husband). But really, going from Victoria Wright to Victoria Gomez was hell and after 40 years, I'm still can't get use to Gomez. Congratulations to you daughter and new son-in-law.

Great recap. So well detailed and the dialogue was recapped almost word for word. I don’t know how you recappers can do such a wonderful job and still enjoy the show.

I love both the nicknames or acronyms for J.L. – Poor Deluded Bastard (PDB) and now, Mad Dog Jose Luis (MDJL). I think now as J.L. descends deeper and deeper into craziness, the MDJL is SOOOOOOO appropriate.

What secret between Amelia and J.L. is Monse talking about? Help clarify please!!!!!
 

Victoria: I think it was that Ale was alive.
 

But Nanette, how did Amelia know that Ale was alive? Do you know? I missed that entirely.
 

A gloriously supreme recap, NovelaMaven! Sounds like the wedding was wonderful.

What great nicknames for JL--junk bond, PDB, and Mad Dog. He looks so scruffy and unappealing. Of course, Dimi looked rather beat up, too.

We fans are feeling the wear and tear as well. With all the back and forth in the plot, our heads are almost spinning. Montse's double slap was a high point. She's come a long way from her youthful belief in her mother's words.

I had to smile at all the people in line to claim credit for the release of Ale. EZ wasn't going to lose his domestic comforts, was he?

I liked Ale taking the bull (oops, the steer) by the horns when he went to visit Pedro. At least he won't have to skulk around town anymore.
 

We were all waiting for you, dear NovelaMaven!!! As always, you NEVER disappoint!!

Before I say anything more, huge, huge congratulations on The Wedding! It must have been mahvelous!! San Diego is one of my fave cities!!! Fantastic!!! Sending you many hugs!

Holy Cow! What an episode!! I loved this and I see Urban agrees:

" Graciela is a free agent since the SDB forgot to include a non-compete clause." FREE AGENT!!! I love it!!

Didn't you just love the looks on Montserrat's and The Free Agent's face when Mad Dog JL was spouting his lies?! I loved it. I couldn't stop smiling.

Frankly, I was shocked (I tell you!) when Montserrat slapped her mother. Let's see, how many times has she done this to her own daughter, but puts on this act when there is pay back?! OY!

As for Dimitrio, I honestly don't know what to think. I will have to sleep on this one, but it didn't make me very happy. I can't wait to read Carlos' take on this (and I mean that seriously).

Alejandro's preemptive strike with Pedro is a bold move. We still have lots to go, so I am wondering where they are headed with this!!

I got a huge kick out of EZ Basura telling Gullible Carlota that HE was responsible for Alejandro's freedom. This guy is something else. Carlota is going to fall really hard and I don't want to see it.

Fantastic recap, NM!! I do NOT know how you manage all of this dialogue. Urban floors me every time with her extensive dialogue in the recap. There are so many things flying around so quickly that I have to REALLY focus to catch it all. Then, I come here and see this detailed dialogue that all I can say is: HOLY COW!

Fatima
 

"I went to jail for 7 years for you!" How many times do we have to hear JL whine about that? We should have a drinking game whenever we hear that.

I love the double slap Montse gave. It was especially hilarious when Graciela was applauding her for hitting JL and she gets slap too.

Great ending too with Alec showing up to see Pedro.
 

Victoria: he told her at the wedding.
 

Nanette:

Thanks for the clarification. J.L. told Amelia at the wedding! Amelia just went down several data points for me. Maybe she can go back up by pulling one over on Pedro!

There were so many great moments to this night's episode, I can't pick the best.
 

Oh, one more thing. It REALLY upset me when JL so nastily, snidely and sarcastically commented to Montserrat about her ability to think and use her brain.

He really upset me with how he looked and the tone of his voice. This man is a fool. He doesn't love Montse. He wants to OWN her. She is nothing more than an object to him now. He is almost frightening when he invades her space and invade it he did with his threats.

This man is a goner.

Fatima
 

NovelaMaven:

So glad you are back and congrats on your daughter's wedding. I bet you had a very lovely time. Thanks for this most superb recap too.

Ay, poor JL, he is falling faster than I thought, but he will probably hit rock bottom and then I think come back to himself, one can hope ; ) Like I said before Ale and JL same coin, different sides.

So happy Esme had her bebe and that Refug is trying to make amends. He needs to have a talk with Esme without the other ladies in the room, explain himself and then let her have some time.

Dimi's proposal really surprised me, I wasn't expecting that. I think Dimi really does love Monica. I wonder if she'll say yes.

I am glad all of these little secrets are all out in the open, about Amelia telling JL about Ale, Graceless being outed and BTW JL too. But he really did pay Graceless at first to butt out, that evolved later of course. I'm glad too that Monse got her slaps in.

At last Ale is actually doing something. I'm glad he went and confronted Peddy. It's been a long time coming. I seriously doubt that Peddy will do anything to Ale right now. When have we ever seen Peddy kill anyone? He always "farms" that out to someone else.

I had to laugh at all three of them, Graceless, JL, and EZ taking credit for getting Ale out of jail. I keep remembering Graceless and Ale's convo about how she would get his money. I think she will try her hardest to still do that, by hook or by crook.

Thanks again NovelaMaven for this awesome recap : )
 

Sorry to keep posting:

But is anyone still on J.L.'s side?

It's amazing that when you look back at the "hacienda" episodes, you realize that even back then J.L. couldn't really have loved Monse in the true sense. He's a real narcissist.

I admit that I'm too much of an Ale fan to even begin to like J.L. in the lest. Oh yes, he planned his strategy for 7 whole years. At least he had a life, even in jail; while Ale had none while in a coma!
 

Victoria:

I was one of the bloggers you referred to in your post. I sincerely believe Refug stopped himself because he knew it was wrong. I admire him for that. He could have turned a blind eye, but he did not. I believe in forgiveness, no matter what someone has done, I am the eternal optimist as Elna June has called me, so therefore I respectfully agree to disagree with you. People make mistakes all the time and learn from them.
 

My goodness, I guess we are really into this thing, aren't we?

Hey, Cynderella, I'll have to let you know the next time I'm planning a trip out your way. The wedding was actually held in a place north of the city. You are so lucky to live in such a gorgeous place!

Victoria Gomez, I looked back at earlier recaps and in episode 129, Urban details a conversation between Amelia and JL in which she shares with him the suspicion that Alejandro is alive. After all, Amelia is the person who has been taking care of Nadia's daughter. If Nadia survived the crash and had a child, it makes sense to think that Alejandro might also have survived. JL's response is to pressure Montse to marry him right away. Amelia doesn't like what he is doing, but she keeps her mouth shut.

I'm delighted that you enjoyed the recap!

Urban, yes, Mad Dog Álvarez is perfect!

I agree that Gracie was faking every minute of this episode. And yes, Montserrat does indeed have her number.
 

Owning, obsession and mainly JL wants to "beat" Alejandro since he still blames him for stealing Montse. Never mind the small detail that JL that he was a coward and never spoke to her father first. He never remembers that.
 

thanks to all of you for your clarification of the Amelia/J.L. thing.

Madelaine:
I know forgiveness is righteous. But to forgive doesn't necessarily mean to forget and in Refugio and Esme's case, I just don't think I could stay married to a man that even went as far as Refugio did. The thought was there, No? I'm just not on this bandwagon but it's a TN afterall and characters change all the time.
 

La Paloma,

"I liked Ale taking the bull (oops, the steer) by the horns when he went to visit Pedro"

Nice one. And yeah, I liked that too. And of course I am tickled pink that you liked the recap.

Dear Fatima,

It's always more fun when you are around so I am particularly glad you decided to join us for the final stretch.

I'm not thrilled with the way the Dimitrio story is unfolding. Mónica was presented as such an unpleasant person -- as others have said, she has been on various occasions insensitive, rigid, humorless and judgmental. I'm also not thrilled with Dim's rationalization for his roll in the hay with Josefina. Oh well. Maybe we were giving Dim more credit than he deserves.

To me, last night's JL was despicable in every way. I don't know how we reconcile that person with the man who came to love and be loved by Angélica. But Diana or Niecie may see things differently. And Mads, our resident optimist, says she still has hopes for him.

Hi Mads,

JL is lucky to have you rooting for him. I'm not sure how I feel about Refugio and Esme. He really has a knack for making bad life choices. I don't think I'd want such a weak person as my life partner; but then, maybe Esme is strong enough for both of them.

It WAS pretty funny the way everyone was competing to take credit for getting Ale out of jail. All we need is for Pedro to jump on the bandwagon!

Thanks to everyone for your good wishes on my daughter's wedding. I'm still on a bit of a high (the natural kind) from the occasion and all the parties leading up to it.
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
 

NovelaMaven and Nanette:
I re-read the recap for episode 129 and give Amelia back data points. She really did try to get J.L. to tell Monse that Ale might be alive so Monse could make an informed decision about the wedding. Bravo Amelia!

How you guys keep up with what happened in what episode amazes me. I've watched the entire novela faithfully and get lost as the novela comes to an end.
 

NovelaMaven,
First of all congratulations to all the family on your daughters' wedding and best wishes to the newlyweds!

Thank you for the recap. So detailed and full of great asides. Thanks for doing this during a busy time for you and your family.

One of my favorite lines:
"From now on, she's on Team Princesa. She's backing her beautiful daughter and her golden son-in-law."

My favorite part of the epi was the double slap from Montse to MDA (Mad Dog Alvarez) and Gracie. I also loved it when MDA was caught lying about being the one responsible for Ale's release. Those lies coming out of his mouth just proved how crazy he really has become. I think he's becoming delusional too. When Montse told him that he gave her "asco", he said he was ok with that because she once felt the same for Ale, but came to love Ale. So in his mind, Montse will eventually love MDA again. Now that is delusional.

It was interesting to hear both Gracie and Montse tell MDA that he wasn't man enough for Montse. That only Ale could "satisfy" Montse. Them's fighting words. I almost thought that MDA was going to start foaming at the mouth.

Everything about MDA is bothering me right now. His face, his voice, his cloths, his cowardness and his manipulative behavior. He has become a master at it. Of course he learned from the best, Gracie. The writers are doing an excellent job of making me want to throw something at the TV every time MDA is on the screen. Ok, rant over.

After watching the scene again with Esme catching Refu (half dressed) at Monica's, I thought, why did Monica have to come out in her see thru nighty and make things worse. It was bad enough seeing Refu there half dressed, but Monica made the situation 100 times worse when she came into the room. Seriously? Stay in the bedroom. And I don't know what's up with Dimi. I know he still is in love with Fina. I think he cares for Monica, but it's not the same thing he feels for Fina. Maybe he's confused. That marriage proposal surprised me. I think it's a mistake. He's trying too hard to show that he grew up and wants to be an adult. This sounds horrible, but I hope Monica says No.

Happy and scared to see Ale confront Peddy. I didn't like the avances with Peddy pointing that gun at Ale.

Must sleep...hasta pronto!
 

NovelaMaven- Congratulations on your daughter's wedding! So, now you have in-laws you can discuss tns with?

Excellent retelling of this episode. Now I can't wait to watch it this weekend. I want to see the double slaps. I still don't understand why Monse is staying with him. Go to the military police and tell them your crazy police chief husband has threatened murder-suicide, and has police guards following you around, as they can see. See a few lawyers and a few judges. They obviously have time to listen to crying blondes in that town. Heck, have Carlota influence her hubby to strip JL of his post. Just DO something!

I am glad that Ale finally got off his butt to do something about the Pedro situation. Now, let's see if he actually has a plan.
 

Wow NovelaMaven--you came out with both guns blazing on this one. I really admire your way with words. There was a gem in every paragraph. I'm just going to mention my super-faves.



First off: Sad Deluded Bastard. And yes, if you shorten it to SDB, it sounds like a disease of the very worst kind. The actor who plays José Luis had only played a villain before...did the writers know from the get-go that they were going to turn him into this slimy monster?

Now you scamp..."Federico de Campeche=Frederick's of Hollywood! Thought you would sneak that in, did you? But I agree, Monica's get-up were very much of the "professional" kind. Another reason why I can't picture her as Dimitrio's wife. Very disappointed to hear of the proposal and HATE the idea that he bedded Josefina as a way of testing his feelings. What a dog.

works up a good pseudo sob
most sincere growl

Graciela is a fee agent since the SDB forgot to include a non-compete clause

Delivery or Take-Out [oh Lord, that was funny!]

"leaves the peaceful waters of the womb and emerges into morally murky Bluewater [funny, but also sublime]

mendacious little man [from now on I'll think of him as MLM...he DOES look so puny next to Carlota...the casting of those two was perfect]

describing Graciela's soul as "dark and shriveled" and then "seven years of sorrow". I'm always struck by the uses of seven in this story. So biblical. The ecclesiastical underpinnings poke through occasionally in these rip-roaring, sexy stories.

Support group of the Socialite or the Stripper [what's not to love?]

And congratulations on your daughter's wedding!!! Sounds wonderful and a great reason to make frequent trips out West.

First off: Sad Deluded Bastard. And yes, if you shorten it to SDB, it sounds like a disease of the very worst kind. The actor who plays José Luis had only played a villain before...did the writers know from the get-go that they were going to turn him into this slimy monster?

Now you scamp..."Federico de Campeche=Frederick's of Hollywood! Thought you would sneak that in, did you? But I agree, Monica's get-up were very much of the "professional" kind. Another reason why I can't picture her as Dimitrio's wife. Very disappointed to hear of the proposal and HATE the idea that he bedded Josefina as a way of testing his feelings. What a dog.

works up a good pseudo sob
most sincere growl

Graciela is a fee agent since the SDB forgot to include a non-compete clause

Delivery or Take-Out [oh Lord, that was funny!]

"leaves the peaceful waters of the womb and emerges into morally murky Bluewater [funny, but also sublime]

mendacious little man [from now on I'll think of him as MLM...he DOES look so puny next to Carlota...the casting of those two was perfect]

describing Graciela's soul as "dark and shriveled" and then "seven years of sorrow". I'm always struck by the uses of seven in this story. So biblical. The ecclesiastical underpinnings poke through occasionally in these rip-roaring, sexy stories.

Support group of the Socialite or the Stripper [what's not to love?]

And congratulations on your daughter's wedding!!! Sounds wonderful and a great reason to make frequent trips out West.
 

Hmmm...somehow this posted twice in one comment. Oh well, you deserve double thanks and then some, NovelaMaven!

And Leticia, from yesterday...No, I am not a counselor, nor a psychiatrist. But as a volunteer in my church's Care Ministry, I received training in counseling. They don't want us meeting with people in crisis or visiting the sick, without solid grounding in how to listen and care for others without doing or saying something that would be insensitive, judgmental and/or damaging.

The training was wonderful, not only for those situations, but in my family life, and also with my students who are often going through their own life crises. I'm not saying I never make a misstep, but it has really, really helped. Wish I had had something like that in college. It would have saved me and others a lot of grief!
 

NovelaMaven, congratulions on your daughter's wedding. Ah, San Diego! What a wonderful place for a celebration!

Your recap was a humorous delight. The transition from Sad Deluded Bastard to Mad Dog is perfect for JL.

I loved the slaps and everyone trying to take credit for Ale's release. It was so funny and ironic when JL started informing Montse and Graciela that he he was the one who had sprung Ale.

Refoolio needs to go. I hope Esme does not lose her resolve.

Very satisfying episode!

Jarifa
 

NovelaMaven, congrats to your family. May all be perfect for the happy couple.

Mad Dog Alvarez is really out of control. He is becoming another Pedro. Could it be that the two of them will take each other out?
 

NovelaMaven: Congratulations! Wishing your daughter and her new husband the utmost of happiness. I'm very happy for all of you!

You took base, raw materials (the angst and anguish) and managed to transform and create a beautiful masterpiece. Your conversation translations were excellent and so greatly appreciated! Knowing exactly what was said is of immeasurable help. Your recaps are always consistent. Consistently superb.

"Graciela works up a good PseudoSob, "Is it just me or does he keep getting his rating lowered like a human junk bond or something?)" and "Refugio is outnumbered and outclassed were a few of my favorites, along with the others mentioned.

Judy, I was thinking oh, "Federico de Campeche" must be some high end designer I'm not familiar with. Thank you for sharing it is "Frederick's of Hollywood". I am a bit sheepish I didn't catch on but agree that it was another NovelaMaven gem.

"Graciela is a free agent since the SDB forgot to include a non-compete clause". Watching the tragically insane JL and Graciela, it is a wonder how Monse has not gone mad herself. She must feel like a commodity that has been continually bought and sold to the highest bidder at the moment. The slaps were well deserved.

I do believe Graciela has had moments where she has truly loved her children. I might even go so far as to say she would step in front of either Dimitrio or Monse if in harm's way. That said, she will side with whomever can provide her with the creature comforts she is accostomed to and feel she deserves. She has no loyalty to anyone but herself. She did "sell" Monse and while she may take a bullet for her, she would not hesitate to condemn Monse to live the life Graciela wanted her to live, not the one Monse wanted to.

Fatima, I enjoy every scene with EZ and Carlota. He really seems to love her, in fact I am sure that he does. However, like you, I do not want to be there when Carlota learns the truth.

Insomnia is a huge part of my life at the present. What was I thinking about at 2 pm this morning? Family? Work? Finances? Nopis. The vision of Dimitrio dropping to his knees to propose kept flashing in my brain. So, let's see if I have this right. Dimitrio sleeps with Fina and breaks her heart. Monica almost sleeps with Refugio and Dimitrio puts a ring on it (?) My ode to Beyonce aside, make no mistake that I am upset. This is just wrong on so many levels. Fina and Dimitrio were the one bright spot and now this (?)

Wonderful comments everyone.

NovelaMaven, thank you for your continuing excellence.

Diana
 

2 pm this morning?

As you can see, my sleep deprivation is showing :)

Diana
 

Oh, NM, what a recap and title. On this dreary, rainy, horribly humid day in NE Ohio you just put a smile on my face. So grateful.

And HURRAH!! Happy wedding news. Congratulations on your new extended family and heartfelt wishes to your daughter and her new hubby for many, many happy years together.

Now to our denizens who can't seem to get the idea of what weddings are supposed to be all about.

Can't stand watching JL anymore. Growing up in Chicago, I feel like I've been transported back to the 1920's and watching how Al Capone went from a cowardly south sider with a complex to a cold-blooded crime lord. I guess we should give kudos to the actor, but so many of his mannerisms and ways of talking just ramp up my ICK meter that I can't appreciate his work. I agree with Fatima on him wanting to Own Monse. This is all about the tweebie poor kid on the block who now wants to show up the jock and take the cheerleader away from him and show everyone he's really the coolest dude in town.

I'm on the fence with Dim. Is this a knee-jerk reaction to his past and wanting to do the right thing ( still believing Fina no longer really loves him) or is he sincere? But I still think if he and Fina survive this mess, they are end game, which means either Monica turns him down or well, we know the other option.

If we didn't know what kind of man EZ really is, swear he and Carlotta would be the cutest kids in town.

And as for Gracie, I'm like Monse. No matter what she says and does you can't help but feel there is an ulterior motive behind it. This is all about getting Benny Boy's fortune. And I did find it interesting the judge warned her that she pulls anything or lies again, she could be looking at the slammer. Are we getting a foretelling of her end-game?

Loved the ending. Pedro loves to threaten, but not get his own hands dirty except for beating up women. Frankly, one well placed move to swat away the gun and Ale could pummel him, so this should be interesting.

Daisynjay
 

NovelaMaven, congratulations on the wedding and on gaining a son-in-law. I bet the reception following the wedding was a blast!!!

"Baby Solares leaves the peaceful waters of the womb and emerges into morally murky Bluewater." My favorite line in the whole recap!

I think that Graciela is beginning a slow process towards redeeming herself. I think that typically, in novelas, bad moms either redeem themselves or have something horrible happen to them. I believe the former will be how Graciela ends up. She clearly is starting to show some softening up. If she did a complete about face at the end, it wouldn't be believable. The writers and actors are doing a fine job.

JL thinks that he was denied Montse because he didn't have enough money. That is what HE kept telling himself. You may all remember that from the beginning Montse BEGGED him to go see her dad and he refused to do it. Her dad loved her so immensely that he would have agreed to let Montse marry JL, but JL was too cowardly to do it. Maybe he will redeem himself in the end by giving his life to save Alejandro, Laurito or Montse (pure speculation), but at this point I only see him as a coward, manipulator and abuser.

I am perplexed about where I think that Fina, Dim, Adolfo and Monica will end up. As for BM,....it better be the biggest anvil ever!
 

Oh, and forgot about Esme and Refugio--boy, sorry, just am not into these two anymore. Not sure why, but the only part of the whole events with them I enjoyed or paid attention to last night was the adorable little munchkin and Monse showing up in the room and her little snippy comment to Amelia.
And yes, did this hospital not have anyone available to give an epidural? Guess it was more dramatic to have Esme be all angry and screaming...

Daisynjay
 

No way will Gracie get redemption. She has too many sins to pay for:

-- killing Benjamin (by proxy, paying Juventino to do it) after cheating on her husband with him throughout their entire 30-year marriage
-- marrying Lauro in the first place, using him to climb socially, and depleting his money
-- framing the future Mad Dog Alvarez for murder, corrupting her son in the process by involving him
-- treating Monserrat like a piece of livestock
-- infantilizing Dimitrio until he had to run away by joining the Navy
-- insulting everyone in creation
-- aiding and abetting Pedro in his attempt at destroying Alejandro
-- blasphemy in her invocation of Jesus

She's a world-class hypocrite. She treats her children as though they are dolls to put away when they're inconvenient and has no regard for their dignity or feelings. Remember all the nasty things she said about Alejandro when she helped Pedro revoke his inheritance? Monse hasn't forgotten that.

Have you ever heard how she talks to Monse's little boy? She's just as bad as Veronica in PEAM.
 

My very dear NovelaMaven, Thank you for that wonderful , detailed recap that brightened my morning and gave me a smile. Our own Mad Dog Sad Deluded Nemisis has reentered our orbit with phone calls to his children after not a peep from him for two and a half months. Here we go again. More court drama, more upset stomachs, and solutions sought. Anyhoo, I can appreciate Mony's situation of having not one but two evil forces in her life when she is just trying to live her life with her family. Uff.

So, BSC JL has played the "my turn" card. Really ? He feels that he has a ticket to ride, and he don't care...shout out to The Beatles. And Gracie is going above and beyond her usually crazy maliciousness. "an aggressive blessing",...ah..only Gracie could inflict it and only you, clever , witty Novelamaven could name it so perfectly.

Well, I am off to give two final exams, cook up the final grades , and post them. THEN....summer vacation begins. .
 

Susanlynn: My condolences and prayers are with you and your family. Strength and hope to all of you.

Diana
 

NovelaMaven, our wonderful NovelaMaven, thank you for your kind words. You have been blessed with a wonderful summer of happiness! I am so thrilled for you!

Dear Susanlynn, I am saddened to hear of your news. I'm sure it will be hard to come to terms to having this person in your daughter's life, your life, and your grandchildren's life for some time to come. My biggest hope is that there are people to help get you all through these moments. I sent you wings of support. We are always here for you.

Like Diana, the one thing that is really bothering me is the Dim episode. It took me completely by surprise and my feelings for him now are unclear. It bothered me HUGELY that he told Monica he had to roll in the sack with Fina in order to really get to the bottom of how he felt for her. What a LAME story! That was total BS. It insulted Fina and was a comment that was reminiscent of Dim's early behavior when he and Adolfo were trying to fleece Fina.

In some ways, Dim's comment is quite similar to Refoolio's INTENT to bed Monica in that they both make it very, very hard to establish a trusting relationship. As our dearest JudyB pointed out yesterday, we are frail humans, but I don't think that I could ever truly trust Dim or Refoolio based upon single, but very important key actions.

Aunty Ann, I absolutely agree with you that Mad Dog JL is sickening to watch. He WAS delusional last night. I had a good friend once who use to constantly say "Things are NEVER what they appear to be". In fact, she said it so much, there were times I just wanted to tell her to stop it (but figured it was no use). When Monica showed up in the Federico de Campeche (Ay NovelaMaven, I was dying laughing on that one!)nightie, my jaw dropped. What else COULD Esme think?! It took one shot of seeing that negligee versus Refoolio making love to her to start her labor.

The other funny moment was when Montserrat told her body guard to "get lost, can't you see that there are only women in here?!" I loved it! Really told me what she felt about Mad Dog JL's goons.

Vivi in DC, I'm with you 100% on Montse calling in the Navy and getting herself the heck out of Dodge. If scantily clad Capitana Monica has such authority at that base, then she needs to get her RIGID by the book self going to get Montse out of there.

Though why Montse can't do this on her own is beyond me, but there you have it.

Carloswhere are you? I want to hear your take on things pronto. :))

Fatima
 

I think Dimitrio's story is pretty straightforward. He looked and sounded completely sincere when he voiced that sleeping with Fina was a mistake.
Also he actually answered Monica last night about how he would feel if she cheated on him. He said, "I would forgive you if you realized and told me that you were in love with me." Which is what hit him after sleeping with Fina. It's over. He loves Monica.
I don't want him to end up with Fina through circumstance (like if they kill Monica off). It would not make me happy. I don't want our Fina to be the consolation prize.
 

Anon@1102. I absolutely agree with your statement: " I don't want our Fina to be the consolation prize.

Fatima
 

What do you all think about the change in Josefina's wardrobe? Ever since she came back to Agua Azul, she's been wearing red...a power color.
(Remember when Tiger Woods always wore a red shirt and black pants on the last day of the golf tournament?--or the statistics that show teams in red win more often than teams in other colors)

Now she's wearing black and blue (and white). And I found her outfit too large for her and unflattering. That, combined with Dimitrio's seemingly sincere proposal of marriage to Monica, has me very downcast indeed.

I agree Josefina should not be a Dimitrio Consolation Prize. But I don't want her to be a Spiritual Crutch for the very flawed Adolfo either.

As Susanlynn says, Please send in Bachelor No. 3!
 

Dear NovelaMaven,

So nice to have you back and in such stellar form! I hadn't seen your comments for a few days and was wondering where you might be, so I am very happy to learn you were away for such a joyous occasion. Congratulations to your daughter and son-in-law, you and your husband, and all your families, too.

Loved this wonderful recap. Many great lines have already been mentioned that I also admired, and I especially had some laughs at your various descriptions of Alejandro:

"Alejandro, fetching in his sea-green tee shirt, confronts Mad Dog JL in his office."

"Pedro Medina points a gun at Alejandro's beautiful brow."

I was sitting at the J-L table for a while, but, man he's lost it. I think he's capable of redemption if he lays of the tequila, but it may take a while longer and will probably require a sacrificial death on his part in the end. We'll see!

Looking forward to the Alejandro and Pedro confrontation tonight!

Thanks again, NovelaMaven, for this amazing recap!
Julia R.
 

Susanlynn, you and your family have my thoughts and prayers. Hopefully, this time around, perhaps events will not take an ugly turn. If there's one thing you have, it's the comfort of this community, so vent away any time it's needed.

Anon, I like your summation on Dim and Fina. I won't be surprised if the writers go there is what I was referring to. But if we have learned one thing in this TN, there is no clear cut path to happiness in any of the couples and the predictability of "true loves" has been turned on it's head a few times and couples who may be true loves, but not meant to be and people head to someone else for their future, which is a real twist for TN's. Frustrating, but so much more like real life than our usual fare. Very Edith Wharton.

This triangle in particular will be interesting to see.

Daisynjay
 

Anon: "... Which is what hit him after sleeping with Fina. It's over. He loves Monica."

You echoed what I posted yesterday. I feared his love for Fina was gone and now it appears that is the sad truth.

Fina is the ultimate and deserves to be loved and cherished as such. Having her be second choice would be an abomination.

Diana
 


We definitely need a Bachelor #3 for Josefina. I vote that it be someone handsome and stinking rich so Gracie has to eat crow.

Josefina has suffered too much and come too far.
 

JudyB, amiga mia, you have touched on yet another thing I have been thinking about. I am noticing more and more what these people are wearing. While I loved Fina's outfit, you are correct, it didn't fit her as well as have some of her other outfits. I don't want her to fade into her clothing. Also notice this change came right after the Dimitrio Affair.

JL had a red shirt on last night, but I do not see him coming as from a position of strength, but from a position that is deteriorating on a daily basis.

Adolfo always looks so GQ that it is hard to believe he has become a hardened killer. His clothes have been able to fool people in to not seeing who he really is.

Thankfully, I think that Fina knows she would be nothing more than a crutch for Adolfo. She won't go there (and if she does, you can slap me upside the head!)

Fatima
 

NovelaMaven – Congrats on your expanding family! Best wishes to the bride and groom. You returned from the wedding with a blast. My favorites:

Though really, who wears Federico de Campeche to greet an unexpected visitor?

With one final and noisy push, baby Solares leaves the peaceful waters of the womb and emerges into morally murky Bluewater.

Refugio is outnumbered and outclassed. He slinks away.

I hate that JL has done a 360 on everything he used to be, but I still care about him. He is operating out of hate and revenge, but ultimately he's not happy cause this is not who he is deep inside. If Refugio or Amelia weren't preoccupied, they'd get him some help. Also, sometimes I find Mad Dog JL amusing, like the "no, you shut up!" to Graciela's "shut up!" and his sarcasm with Ale, "yeah, brave man, keep hiding from Medina." What can I say? JL is bad and will sadly probably be put down like a mad dog, but he can spice up an argument.

At last Ale is actually doing something.

Madelaine, ITA. Ale is an Adonis but he's never gotten under my skin as JL has. He started out pretty strong when he got his inheritance and went after Gamboa(?), but then – even before the coma - he got bogged down in do-nothingness. Finally, it looks like he's starting to try to figure out Pedro's game.

Dim worries me. He's acting like a mama's boy that doesn't want to be alone. First, he lived with Gracie. Then he moved in with Monse and Ale. Then he lived with Monica. Now, after sleeping with Fina, he thinks he's ready to marry Monica. He’s confused and needs to try being alone for awhile.

Esme still loves Refugio, so what else can she do but give him a chance to prove he can be worthy? Loved Zulema giving him the stinkeye.

Monse’s double-slap was her best moment so far. Loved the stunned look on Graciela's face.
 


I wondered how Ale could just sneak up on that güey Pedro. Did he get by the bodyguards just by wearing his logoless baseball cap?


 

Niece:

I thought I was the only one that had JL under her skin so to speak. I'm glad I'm not the only one. I have really liked the way the writers did this character until now. I do remember Angie telling JL that Monse wasn't for him. I know she told Fabs that JL is a dreamer and that Monse liked Ale's control of her. I think for now JL is trying what I call the Ale method. I still can't get over how Ale locked her up at the hacienda and wouldn't allow her to go anywhere. JL may have the bodyguards on Monse, but she's still going out and isn't locked up. They are alike in certain respects, as in kill the rival, that will solve everything! To my mind, believe it or not, JL's bark is worse than his bite! When JL killed anyone it was to save someone else. Ale, on the other hand, shot JL because he believed that JL was the Papa of Lolo. This is my problem with Ale. Shoot first ask questions later.
 

Wow--great observation Oxnard!! Not exactly on their game...which makes one all the more frustrated that the Scooby Gang can't sneak Nadia out of that house.
For that matter Monse's guard was pretty easy to push around last night too. I guess there's more emphasis on the braun versus the brain for the AquaAzul security company.

Daisynjay
 

Niecie in MD, I agree with you. Dimitrio needs some introspective time as he is still something of a Mama's boy.

Fatima
 

Diana:

Like you I have insomnia too but not over Dimi and Fina, over JL 'natch and how the writers have darkened this character's soul.

I too have been a Dimi and Fina fan since the beginning, but now I think the writers are showing Dimi's growth. I really think it was a mistake for him to sleep with Fina and break her heart, but on the other hand, I truly believe he now knows he doesn't love Fina. It's sad to say, but Dimi came to this decision on his own. He didn't seek advice from anyone, he went with his head and his heart and so he realized he loves Monica and wants to spend the rest of his life with her. He has finally taken some action on his own as he did when he joined the Navy. I too am waiting for a new, handsome, caring man to show up for Fina. I can't see her with Addled either.



I think the baggie clothes Fina wore were her defense mechanism. When she hurts she reverts a bit, but I really think she'll be okay. How brave and courageous she was to hide Ale and Vic at her home knowing the consequences of what would happen if Peddy found out. And she's still hiding Vic.

I remember something from the other day, when someone commented that Addled was a serial killer. He's only ever killed one person, the guy that ratted the cartel out to the Navy. He seems to only kill under orders. He couldn't kill the Padre or BM. He's helping Ale and Vic and protecting his sister Nadia and Vicky. What he is doing is wrong, the cartel bidnez, but a serial killer he is not.
 

NovelaMaven,

Fabuloso, Fantástico, y Maravilloso
como siempre!

I wrote down all of your Spanish phrases and will learn them - try to use them in appropriate conversations.

I don't have much occasion to use "Qué haces aqui?" and "Déjame en paz."

The wedding sounds wonderful.
Now for the questions. Do you live in California Will you live near your daughter? Is she fluent in Spanish? Will you have more opportunities to use your Spanish now with the new blended family?

Re JL's alleged cowardice,
Viewers will recall that he went to the house to talk to the Admiral, and Gracie resoundly ran him off, and then all the action happened very rapidly.

I don't have time to list all of his noble actions or his acts of bravery, but there are many.

I realize that he is over the top now, but at his core, he a noble man. And I am prepared to defend him just as Carlos will see good in Maria.

I am wondering what others have to say about his action after Ale left his office. JL put his head in his hands as if to say,
"Where is all of this going?"
This is never how I wanted things to turn out. What kind of a man am I turning into?

This TN is full of people marrying the wrong person, so perhaps Dim
will go with the flow. I was very disappointed in this turn of events, and I don't believe for a minute that he slept with Josefina as a calculated move to learn whether or not he was still in love with her. Nor do I think the sex act alone is the true confirmation or litmus test that indicates true love. What motivated him to want to be close with her was her tenderness and affection for him that she always had. And to say, that the sex wasn't so great or that the sex revealed to him an epiphany was ridiculous.


Many couples love each other, but it takes them a while to perfect the sex which is something different from Love.

Think about people who may have "great sex" and not love each other at all (one close example - Adolfo and Maria) altho that's stretching it because I don't think she is capable of real love with anyone, and he seems to love Josie, but still he betrays her with a sex act with another.

All I can think of is that something bad will happen to Josie and Dim will come to her rescue and realize that he cannot live without her, and then Mónica will see firsthand and realize that Dimitrio's heart lies with Josefina. Dimitrio is another DELUDED character now - both in his feelings for M and J. And don't forget that he is deluded into thinking that Josefina cares for Adolfo and not for him.
Perhaps he is acting somewhat DSESPERATELY also. He lost one woman. He does not want to lose another.
 

Victoria: I have a pretty good memory when it comes to movies/TV, but don't really when it comes to TN's. Vivi has the encyclopedic knowledge. It was just a fluke that I remembered, but glad I did so I could get you a quick answer.
 

Excellent recap, NovelaMaven!

"He lost one woman. He does not want to lose another." Floridia, I think you hit the nail on the head. I totally agree with your statement! Monica will be a fool to accept Dimitrio's proposal. I really want Dim to get it together and win back Josefina.

I am really looking forward to tonight's showdown between Alejandro and Pedro. It will be nice to see Ale go against someone besides JL.

I am so tired of JL! I have never liked him much. He really annoyed me before when he was "noble". Now that he has lost it, he is insufferable - at least to me.

I want Monse to leave JL's house. I really fear for her safety.

Caryn


 


I totally agree with those who say Dimi needs to cool it with his impulsive proposals. He is still a manchild so you best be keepin' sowing your oats, boy.

That MILF Zulema would be perfect for him as an F buddy. Jeez, she flirted with him even she knew that he was heartbroken after his woman had just moved out on him.

She could teach him a few life lessons; of that I am sure.
 

Floridia:

Yes, exactly about JL. You have said perfectly what I've been thinking about him and when he hung his head in shame, was very telling wasn't it? He really does still have that noble soul and he needs to let Monse go and concentrate on bringing Peddy down.
 

It should be a great temptation to bring Pedro down with what they now know about him. I wonder how Adolfo would react to that.
 

Madelaine: Amiga, I have said many times how disappointed and saddened I am by the the writer's ruination of JL's character, a bascially noble and good man. Not a perfect man but one who held high ideals and tried to live his life with honor.

He deserved far better than what and who he has morphed into now, a grungy madman, violent, unscrupulous, would be rapist.

Like you, I hold out hope for Adolfo and for a miracle to occur.

I got swept up in Dimitrio and Fina and their respective transformations have been a revelation. I had hoped they would end up together having endured so much but like you, I do not see how that will occur now. Dimitrio has moved on and so should my wish for their reconciliation.

JL was my favorite character and while my hope for him has evaporated, I must believe there may be some mercy for Fina and Adolfo, and some happiness for each of them.

Diana
 

Novela: Thanks for the recap. Fav line: “Refugio is outnumbered and outclassed.” Also, big congrats on the wedding.

To give EZ a little credit, he probably doesn’t know about Gracie and the judge, and he was the one who convinced JL to let Ale go.

Victoria: I like JL for the most part (right now, he’s on my s**t list). I don’t like what the writers have done to his character. I’ve never been a fan of Ale’s. He’s too flawed of a galan for me. Believe me, I don’t want them lily white, but I find him too unlikeable.

Novela: I had forgotten that convo between Amelia and JL prior to the wedding. I just remembered the scene at the disastrous reception.

I don’t think Dim slept with Fina to prove something. I think he’s telling himself and Monica that so he doesn’t have to face the facts that he’s still in love with Fina, who he thinks is not in love with him.

Susanlynn: I’m sorry to hear about your troubles. I hope they get resolved soon the way that you want.

OT: A favor, please. If anyone here is watching En Otra Piel on Telemundo, could you please let me know when they’re nearing the end. I want to see how things turn out.

Nanette
 

Thank you all for your insightful and kind comments and for all your good wishes for my daughter and her husband.

Susanlynn,

I'm so sorry that your real-life delusional monster has reappeared in the lives of your family. My thoughts are with you. If this silly recap made you smile, then it was worth writing it.

Floridia,

But surely you have occasion to use "Lárgate, pedazo de imbécil!" or "No puede ser!" :)

In fact, I live in the midwest so our visits are rare and precious. My daughter's Spanish is better than she lets on, but she's not really fluent.

Victoria,

My memory for TN's in general isn't that great, especially when it comes to names, but when I'm recapping, I end up paying very close attention and therefore remembering the absurd and inconsequential details (which probably crowd more useful stuff out of my brain). Even so, I make mistakes. It's a good thing I have the CarayCaray community around to keep me honest. :)

AuntyAnn,

You're not the only one who hopes that Mónica says no.

Wouldn't it be great if Pedro got Alejandro to talk about the accident and he revealed (innocently, with no idea what is at stake) that Ben was actually driving? I'd love to see Pedro focus his rage in some other direction.

Vivi,

I'm also glad that, as La Paloma put it, Ale had the initiative to take the steer by the horns. Of course if everyone behaved sensibly, we wouldn't have much of a story. (Fortunately, there's no danger of that happening -- not in fiction or in life!)
 

What a great recap! I had to laugh at all the "shut up!", No, you shut ups" in this episode.

I am still in JL's corner. I agree with Floridia that JL is a good man and I think he does love Montserrat. Of note, when he caught her with Ale he never called her a whore or a slut, he said, "You're... my wife". Ale never caught Montse with anyone, he just had suspicions, and yet he called her terrible names and threw her out of the house.

I think JL knows he's on the losing end and that makes him fight all the harder. In the end he can point to his behavior and say Montse was right to leave him.

The one thing I cannot buy is Montserrat claiming she never loved JL. She packed her bag and even enlisted Maria and Juventino to help get her off the hacienda so she could escape with JL. She may not love JL now, but she did love him once upon a time.

 

I don't think it would matter at this stage. Pedro would be so frustrated at not being able to kill Benjamin that he would just as easily kill Alejandro out of envy.

After all, despite having been born a bastard Alejandro has a fortune, a loving mother, a beautiful woman, a smart son, and... his package.
 

Diana and Madelaine - Sorry you're dealing with insomnia. You know the best TN for me for dealing with insomnia? FELS. I think of Juan kneading bread, riding off on his horse with Sofia,... and drift right off.
 

JudyB,

You are so unfailingly kind. What great luck to have you as a reader -- and you even laugh at my cornball jokes! Thank you, my friend.

Jarifa,

I thought it was a satisfying episode too. I'm not sure what Esmeralda will decide to do, but I personally couldn't put up with a Refoolio in my life. (Of course, it's easy to say that. You never know what you would tolerate until you are in the situation.)

Urban,

About Pedro's intractable hatred towards Ale -- I think you're probably right. The FACTS are likely irrelevant.

Diana,

"Watching the tragically insane JL and Graciela, it is a wonder how Monse has not gone mad herself."

That's a great point! AB has run with the character of Montserrat and made her strong and interesting. (Maybe Lauro had great genes.)

I agree that Graciela loves her children, though her maternal feelings are always competing with her greed, her arrogance, and her need to control others. It's a deadly mix and a sure repellant.

Daisynjay,

"If we didn't know what kind of man EZ really is, swear he and Carlotta would be the cutest kids in town."

Ay ay ay. The problem is we DO know. I'm not looking forward to the moment when Carlota is let in on the secret. (Of course some of us have reserved Admiral Robledo for her and we are just waiting for the opportune moment.)

anita,

I see a possibility of partial redemption for Graciela. As you say, there are signs that she is softening up. But she has crossed too many lines for full redemption. Not only did she murder Benjamin (though she hired Juventino to do the dirty work), we just saw her give tacit approval to the 'disappearing' of Fabiola's maid, Ricarda.

I hope the character is around until the end. Her outfits are a high point of each episode. :)
 

Thanks NM and congratulations on your extended family. I also am a great supporter of JL and have great hope that he removes himself from the fog and swamp of obsessive love and that he finds the man that he once was. I feel for Josefina and hope she finds a love worthy of her. AB is brilliant in this role and I wonder if her mother's health problem contributed to her palpable sadness. these comments are so wonderful. I intend to to cut and paste my favourites into a word. document. Thanks all.
Yola
 

Urban,

I just realized you had listed Graciela's sins. I would add her indifference to Ricarda's fate to the list.

Dear Julia Rold,

Thanks so much for your gracious words. So you've given up on poor old Mad Dog too? Oh well. We'll all weep for him when he's gone. [tee hee]

Judy,

I think wardrobe has shortchanged Josefina y punto. A change of color here, a change of line there, but they don't do justice to the actress's elegant beauty.

Niecie,

" sometimes I find Mad Dog JL amusing, like the "no, you shut up!" to Graciela's "shut up!"

Oh definitely! Those two had me cracking up last night with their "shut up", "no, you shut up" routine!

And yes, Dim may be close to 40, but he's not quite grown up yet.

Oxnard Huero,

Maybe we'll find out tonight how Alejandro got past the goons at the palace gates.

Mads,

We saw Adolfo aim at Maria's head and pull the trigger;
we saw him set Padre Anselmo up for murder, though he had to call in help when it came time to pull the trigger;
we saw him kill the informant;
we saw him kill Maria's pimp;
we know he spent 7 years in Monterrey as a feared mob enforcer.

It's a fair assumption that Adolfo has killed or ordered the killing of a lot of people, no matter how pretty his eyelashes are.

Nanette,

"I don’t think Dim slept with Fina to prove something. I think he’s telling himself and Monica that so he doesn’t have to face the facts that he’s still in love with Fina, who he thinks is not in love with him."

That's how I see it too. (Dim has a way of sounding more loutish than he really is.)

xintperuvian,

It's nice to see you commenting here.

It's true that JL never called Montserrat a whore, but that crack last night about her 'brilliant mind' was plenty insulting. I do believe he's just getting warmed up.

By the way, his use of props is fun to watch. First we had the cane, then the letter opener. Let's hope the writers don't hand him a whip. :)

Yola,

Thanks for the kind words. So as a supporter of JL, do you see any chance of his ending up with a rehabbed Fab? Or was Angelica's prediction just a throw-away?

Am I the only one who thinks it would be refreshing to have Josefina end up as happily single?
 

I'm SO glad we are free to agree to disagree on this forum.

I can't stand JL - never could. He has always seemed an oily, grungy, smarmy, cowardly, narcissistic liar to me. His BFF, in effect, gave up his career to aid and abet him in his run to regain his lost love. Sure, he was reinstated later, but that doesn't negate the fact that he did it and the Mad Dog didn't protest that much, he seemed to take it as his due. He always knew how to make the Fool feel guilty, telling him to let him go by himself, "I'll do what I have to do without your help." Really? A true friend would have locked up Refugio in a cell if necessary to keep him from endangering his life and career. He may think he's in love with Montse, but he sure doesn't act like it. I don't believe for a second that he went to prison "for her happiness" - he did it because he knew he had lost her to Ale and he couldn't stand or trust himself to be around her, figured it would be easier (FOR HIM) if he was locked up. That's my opinion, and I'm sticking to it.

By the way, I don't like Alejandro, either.
 

Ah man!!! I hate that EZ and Lottie are so cute together. I hope they don't bring in Robledo for her in the Gran Finale. I'd like to see some eps with him comforting her after EZ's fall---which I know will be really close to the end, but still.
 

JL may not have called Montse a whore, but he HAS sneeringly called her a "facilota" (which is another way of saying 'slut') on more than one occasion. He knows perfectly well, with all the "love" he has for her, that she is not, and never has been, a slut. Regardless of her legal standing, she considers Ale as her one and only husband, being that JL married her through deception.
 

NovelaMaven, congratulations on your daughter's wedding and thanks for getting this recap together. I love the way you write. Your humor makes it so much more enjoyable.

I've had a complicated week, with camp drop-offs, pick-ups, errands and work that I've been reading the recaps and comments late but I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy reading what everyone has to say.

I grew up in a Spanish speaking home in Los Angeles, my parents were Mexican immigrants, so Spanish was my first language, and with that came the love of Mexican novelas, thanks to my grandmothers, aunts and cousins. So I come here to share and enjoy what others have to say about one of my guilty pleasures in life: Novelas.

All my fave lines have already been commented on, so I will just say ditto on what JudyB's faves were today: ;-)

As far as JL goes, I loved his two new names but I hate how low he has fallen, how he thinks its "his turn" to have Monse, the lies and the smugness. Ugh, can't stand it anymore, but Madelaine and Floridia, I do agree that he seemed to let out a deep breath after Ale left and hung his head in shame. Perhaps he is fighting his inner demons, but is close to losing. He probably will have redemption but like others have stated, perhaps in saving others with his life in exchange for. At this moment, Angelica must be rolling around in her grave, and not in the sense JL uses with Monse ;-)

Maricruz

 

Leticia,

I see I'm not the only one who appreciated the aggressive blessing that mama Graciela gave her daughter. I swear, I wouldn't be surprised if there were bruises the next day!

Anon 5:43, thanks for reminding us of the facilota's. Yes, Mad Dog Álvarez has already dipped into that well. (I think the El Tal Store was selling FACILOTA t-shirts at one point) :D

Maricruz,

Thanks so much for taking a moment to stop by. You are one busy lady!

Up to now, JL has treated Laurito well and has continued his friendly relationship with Amelia. If he breaks either or both of those links to normalcy, look out.
----------
By the way, here's a little wrap-up of Alejandro's recent Moral Development and Emotional Growth:

Not only has he embraced Montserrat's pregnancy, he has also recognized that María is neither his sister nor his friend and that what she calls 'love' is a sick obsession; and last night, he confronted Pedro 'the bogeyman' Medina.

Our boy is growing up!
 

On JL calling Monse foul names, I was pleased he didn't go straight to "zorra" when he caught her getting it on with Ale. I believe that "facilota" is a grade above "zorra" - in keeping with the pedestal JL has Monse on. Of course, JL - like Ale before him in the insult category - knows full well that Monse is not a whore but let his anger fly in the face of the facts. Two men in 9 years does not a whore make.
 

Nobody else thinks alejandro going to see Pedro was just plain stupid? He basically went to see him because JL called him a name. Did he even think that he could be endangering the lives of everyone around him? Now, Pedro will be on the offensive instead of being clueless.
 

Niece:


Oh, my goodness! Ya know, I have the DVDs of FELS, and have never cracked the cellophane around it yet. I think I'll do that tonight. I can't wait to see Juan kneading bread, yum! I have seen bits and piece on Youtube but haven't seen the whole thing. Thanks so much!
 

JL gets called out for being a coward to talk to Monses dad, but I have always seen alejandro as just as cowardly. If I remember right (please correct me if I'm wrong as it was a long time ago), but alejandro hadn't even talked to Monse before striking a deal with graciela. He was too cowardly to even try to see if he had a chance on his own. He just happened to be lucky enough to have the money to buy his way in.
 

JL did call Montse a name when he caught her in bed with that sexy Adonis. I think it was either "eres una cualquiera" or "eres una facilota". It made Ale jump out of bed to protect his mujer. Does anyone else remember?
 

AuntyAnn,

JL did call Montse a name when he caught her in bed with that sexy Adonis. I think it was either "eres una cualquiera" or "eres una facilota". It made Ale jump out of bed to protect his mujer. Does anyone else remember?

Yes I remember. I believe that was when he first started calling her that.
 

NovelaMaven, thanks for this stellar hilarious recap. The way you make it look so easy (your words seem to flow effortlessly from that clever brain) makes me want to jump back into the recapping maelstrom. And thanks for communicating and sharing the joy of your daughter's happy nuptials with us. Just one question... was there food and drink?

Please excuse me for checking in late (busy day), though the first thing I did this morning was to read the recap and early comments (30 by 7:30!). Fatima, sorry to keep you waiting. I admit, Dimitrio made me smile with his logical rationalization of his unfaithfulness... heck, now he's certain, so it was worth all the trouble.

I'm still amused at the general consensus on The Patio yesterday:

Refugio was tempted but ultimately held fast to his principles... how dare he, dump his sorry butt

Dimitrio was tempted and caved... hey, he was stressed, give him a pass

Niecie this cracked me up:

"..."facilota" is a grade above "zorra" - in keeping with the pedestal JL has Monse on."

Brilliant!

Carlos
 

AuntyAnn and Anon,

As I recall he used the word cualquiera in the sense of anyone, saying something like:

"You'll sleep with anyone. You're a facilota."

and she replied with something like:

"Alejandro isn't just anyone."

Sorry I don't have access to the exact quote but I remember thinking that it was a funny exchange considering the setting.

Carlos
 

"Just one question... was there food and drink? "

Oh my, yes, Carlos -- it was a five day spree, from chilaquiles in the morning to fish tacos and carne asada in the evenings. The actual wedding was celebrated at a microbrewery and the exchange of vows involved a flight of beer.

The ceremony was legit, though. I mean, I'm pretty sure it was legit...

Yes DO jump back into maelstrom! Your fans would be thrilled to get a fortnightly (or even weekly) Recap by Carlos!
 

Anon 6:22,
Ale talked to Montse on the beach on their first encounter. He also talked to her when he went to her house to buy that land, not knowing she lived there or owned the land. They had a few short conversations. It was love at first sight for Ale, but at the time, Montse was all about getting JL to talk to her father about their relationship. Ale realized quickly that he would need Gracie's approval to persue Montse. And Ale did not know about JL. He was told she had no love interest. Gracie manipulated Ale into offering financial assistance to the family. He was no coward. The moment he asked Montse to be his novia, he asked to speak to her father. I remember that brought a smile to Montse's face.
 

Nicely done, AuntyAnn. That's how I remember it too although, I wouldn't have been able to put it together as beautifully as you have. Thanks!
 

The beach scene!! How could I forget that!! Thank you. I kept thinking he first saw her from afar when she was with Nadia and that their first encounter was at that party (at Nadias as well?) after he had already made the deal with graciela. Thank you again for clearing it up :)
 

NovelaMaven, thanks! You knew I couldn't let that one slip by. I had to defend the sexy blond Adonis we call Alejandro Almonte.
 

Dear Novela Maven:

Welcome back to the Patio. Our expectations of the TN are lower than ever. Your writing, on the other hand, is as good as ever—just wonderful in fact.

The title was brilliant.

Thanks so much for writing this great recap, Novela.

Elna June


 

The party scene was interesting. By then, Gracie had lied to Ale about Montse's feelings toward Ale. He thought she was super interested in him. Montse was only interested in knowing how Ale knew Esme. At the time, Esme had told Montse that she was swindled by JL. Esme said JL persued her for money, then left her high and dry. Esme did this as a "favor" for Dimi, plus some cash. This was Dimi and Gracie's plan to convince Montse that JL was only after her money. Ale, convinced by Vic, went to La Escondida and met Esme. The next day Esme ran into Ale at a restaurant and had a short chat. Montse saw the two of them (Ale & Esme) talking, recognized Esme, and wondered how Ale knew her. So, at the party, Montse strudded toward Ale in the most provacative way, flirted with him (only strengthening what Gracie had told him), and proceded to ask him how he knew Esme. Of course Montse knew her by a different name. Ale thought Montse was jealous. I think I just wrote too much...sorry!
 

Susanlynn,
Sorry to hear of your family troubles. Stay strong. Sending positive thoughts your way!
 

Carlos, POR FIN!

Fatima
 

Speaking of FELS (Fuego En La Sangre), I have been watching it off and on if I get home from work in time. What a trip!

The mother is a total witch and the three sisters are dumber than dumb, but the three men are pretty cute. Even then, it is sometimes a goofy TN even though it is supposed to be "serious".

It is showing now on UNIMAS and the Gran Fin is this Friday.

Fatima
 

I realized i'm posting this late, I am in CA on vacay. I just had to hunt down a computer to put in a real comment, because NM, this was one rocking good recap!!
Loved,
"You're not wrong, dude!" snickers someone on The Patio. Cap'n Sylvia, was that you?
Whoa! Somebody's neurons are firing!
Graciela works up a good PseudoSob --
Graciela takes her daughter's hands in her own and says in her most sincere growl...
Sad Deluded Bastard José Luis...Is this the new moniker, like Poor Blind Nadia?
Look Ma, No Epidural! (OUCH!)
Thank you for the Spanish Esme was yelling,(meaning: I'm not going to forgive him for that!) By the by, I've been at a few births during the rough moments where the woman was yelling similar epitaphs and no infidelity was involved at all...
Also,
This, oddly enough, offends Graciela.
baby Solares leaves the peaceful waters of the womb and emerges into morally murky Bluewater

AND all the rich, rich Spanish frases!

And all the wonderful banter from the commenters, so much fun.
Can't take the story too seriously, but Victoria, I do agree with you on your comments re: fidelity.
But, sometimes people choose to forgive unconditionally. Refugio is a big doofus, but it is possible he has learned his lesson now.
 

Emarie,

You are so sweet to take a moment from your vacation time to comment tonight. Thank you for the kind words.

Oh, and by the way, the Sad Deluded Bastard has now become Mad Dog Álvarez :D

Enjoy!

Elna June,

I am tickled pink to see you here and touched that you wheeled out the Patio Welcome Home Wagon just for me. Gracias, chica!

Nah, AuntyAnn, you didn't write too much. That party scene had a lot going on. It's kind of interesting to compare the characters as they were then and as they are now. Thanks!
 

I might be a sicko, but I actually like Graciella and Jose Luis together. They make me laugh. They are always picking at each other and poking at each other. It's hilarious. Cynderella
 





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