Caray, Caray!

Maria: Gracie’s long lost daughter? HELP!

I’m very confused on why many bloggers believe that Maria may be Gracie’s long lost daughter and would very much appreciate the clarification. Maybe I missed something along the way.

Isn’t she too young to be Gracie’s daughter; she seems much younger than Fabs? And was Juvie just sick enough to want his niece Maria to marry her half-brother Ale and become “la patrona” (see episode 17)? Doesn’t Amelia know for sure that Gracie’s daughter is Fabs which is why she insists so much on Fabs getting out A.Azul? Also, if Padre Anselmo knew, surely he would have stopped the whole Ale and Maria around the world cruise and all.

I just don’t see the writers going in this direction because of the whole possibly incestuous behavior between Ale and Maria while on their trip around the world. Even though he never had sex with her, they did share the same bed.

Would somebody please comment on this Maria/Gracie thing?

 

Urban:

Thanks so much for this most superb recap along with the screen shots and I especially loved your comparisons of Graceless' tears to beer and frat parties, lol.

Oh, now things have gone from bad to worse! I swear they should have called this TN, "Your Cheating Heart"! I don't like this pact JL forced on Monse, she will never be able to keep it. I don't like that he has this bodyguard thingy too. At least Lolo will be able to see his Papa, that's the only good thing. I'm sure Lolo will voice his feelings to JL.

At least Refugio stopped before he started, but even to start, very bad idea! And poor Esme! Just the sight looks like it caused her labor.

Graceless is very bold isn't she? I'm glad DA Judge has wised up since the last time, threatening perjury to Graceless and also dealing with Peddy, who knew? I wonder how long it will take to arrest Maria?

I think Addled really loves Fina . He even cried, amazing. I thought he really had no depth to love, but he really does. Too bad he took the path he did. It's a shame he didn't join the Navy too.

Victoria:

In the beginning of this TN, Maria was very vocal about caring for Ale, her Papa Gaspar always told her that Ale was out of reach, but her Uncle Juvie convinced her that Ale was ripe for the picking so to speak. Juvie is the one that put in her head to "disappear" Monse forever. There was some speculation in the beginning that Maria might have been Gaspar's wife's child, because Don Benny had raped before. It could have happened, or since Graceless was his lover for many years, who's to say it couldn't be her child too? From Amelia has said the child that "died" in Graceless' arms was Fabs. Amelia never told Fabs the truth, but Graceless believes the child to be Fabs. Some commenters believe it could be Maria, bebe switching at the convent, a TN staple. We will have to wait and see.
 

Victoria:

As far as Ale and Maria doing anything, they never have. This has frustrated Maria no end, she tried everything to make it happen, but since Ale wouldn't do the deed with her, she just slept with him, which he allowed. They came close to doing it, but he has always told her she is like a sister to him, and he has said this so many times, it's sort of like an omen, being his sister I mean. We'll have to wait and see if this is a red herring or the truth.
 

I hate red herrings so this better not be one.

Victoria, I've said before that Maria could be the daughter of Don Benjamin, but not necessarily the daughter of Graciela. He could have raped Gaspar's wife or Maria could have been adopted out of the same convent situation that Graciela was in.

She could have been switched with Fabiola, but not necessarily on purpose.

Maria is the same age as Alejandro and Fabiola. Gracie was pregnant when Rosario was raped. There was a flashback some episodes ago showing Maria and Alejandro as children. They are the same age.

Which means that now they are both 41, which is slightly older than the actors who play them.

Graciela is probably meant to be about 60 now (DC is 45). Dimitrio is 37 and Monserrat is 28.

The one cast member that makes no sense is Gabriela Rivero, who is 50 in real life. Her character should be older than Graciela but never has looked it. She looks way too young to have been Lauro's sister.
 

Urban, thanks for your wonderfully comprehensive recap and screencaps. It was much more entertaining than this episode that I found frustrating.

So, the "malentendido" (misunderstanding) has reared it ugly head again and again but this time after the "coincidental" meeting of Esme and Refoolio. Number 1: he never should have helped her move, then settle in for drinks and strip down to his skivvies if he really meant what he told Esme. He had to get half naked to realize that he couldn't break his wedding vows? Really? Esme would be much better without him and his poor judgement.

Then we had to listen to crazy BM one more time.

Now that Montse knows that Ale's release was not due to JL she should move out asap before she finds herself under virtual arrest with her armed "escort". In this day and age why would she care what she "promised" JL now that she knows he pulled another fast one on her. It is time for the good guys to stop dragging their butts and DO SOMETHING !

Jarifa
 

Correction: he never should have helped Mónica move.

Jarifa
 

Urban:
Thanks for a wonderfully detailed recap. Tomorrow night's preview seems to show that the episodes are really picking up. I can't wait to see what Monse does when she finds out about Gracie and J.L.'s contract.

You did a magnificent job on recapping not only this night's episode, but winding in important scenes/details from previous episodes. What a great job!

I really am beginning to like Adolfo more and more. He was made into an assassin by Medina, so I guess there is no going back for him. But to see his sincere love for Josefina and his tenderness with her, tore my heart out.

So glad Refugio is getting back from Esmeralda all the bad he has caused her--from making her quit the job of her life, to this whole bastardly thing with Monica. If he were really a stand up guy, he wouldn't have made it to the bedroom with her and certainly wouldn't need to look at his wedding ring to be reminded that only a few days ago, he pledged his never ending love for Esme. What a jerk! He is going downhill but not as fast and far as J.L. has gone.

Thanks to those who cleared up the Maria/Gracie/Fabs question I had.
 

By the way, Ale virtually imprisoned Monse in the hacienda, while J.L. is going to put full-time bodyguards on her. Only because he probably can't lock in the house due to the speculation it would cause.

What's the difference here between the two of them (Ale and J.L.) with their possessiveness regarding Monse?
 

The difference is that Monse loves Alejandro. She doesn't love JL and never loved him the way he wants her to. Note that when she met Alejandro for the first time she liked what she saw. His Adonis-ness wouldn't have mattered to her if she truly had loved JL then.

The possessiveness thing is about both men's insecurity.

The biggest problem now is that JL is in a position of power and he could abuse that power. What Monse needs is a good divorce lawyer. Once Alejandro's name is restored if she is then regarded as being legally married to him she needs to know that now.
 

Thanks for the stellar recap, Urban.

I didn't record this and wish I had, because I would have liked to see the Adolfo-Fina scene. I'm glad she cane clean with him about Dim.

Uhm, I'm perfectly capable of noticing and admiring a hot man, even if I happen to be in love with someone else. That's just human. But to act on it is just stupid (looking at you, Refugio).
 

So. Beautifully. Written. Urban, such a beautiful recap!!

I had to turn it off after the JL scene with Montserrat. I am sick of him; just utterly and totally sick of him and I could not watch the rest of it, BUT...who needed to watch with Urban's beautiful writing!

Refoolio. What a total jerk. Even if he and the Rigid Stepford ("Stepford Wives" was on some channel and I watched it and I can't get it out of my mind every time I see Monica) Captain Monica didn't do the dirty deed, the INTENT was there. I'd boot this man out of my life asap.

Thank you, Urban!!

Fatima


 

Victoria, I feel your exasperation. I wonder if both ladies are Bennies daughters, from different mothers. One from Grace, another from Juevies sister-in-law. Ale's mom we know is Rosario. In older mexicsn tradition the son is often the heir. Benjamin was a bully macho who enjoyed using and abusing some unfortunate servants ladies. Who knows? Intriguing to say the least.
 

Thanks for the recap, Urban!

OK, I have a observation. No one ever brings up Monseratt's bullet wound scar. The chick has been in a bikini since then as well. Did she have plastic surgery or what?

Cynderella
 

Move over Alejandro. Adolfo is the man who has won my heart totally, sure alot of ladies share my sentiments. The irony....Ale and Jl have raped, attempted to rape and called the woman they love sooooo much every name in the book.
But Adolfo, with tears running down his cheeks confessed that although he was hurt to learn about Fina spending night w Dimi, that he was more hurt that she was hurting. He didn't throw his help in her face, throw tantrum or call her names. He is so sensitive. As young man he loved to party, but he just fid not have it in him to be a killer. He was young and afraid of Pedro who sent him to hitman camp. I havent read the recap yet, because I want to read slowly and savor each word. The best for last. I am so impressed how everyone pays such close attention to detail. I wish we could all get together for real and watch last episode. Just dreaming. Leticia de San Antonio
 

Leticia, Adolfo didn't call her names because he boinks Maria. Those who are sinless among us, please cast the first stone. He's a cheating serial killer. Of course, he can find it in his heart to forgive. BTW, I loves me some Adolfo too, but he blinks Maria. If he were so great, he should have admitted that he blinks Maria...on the vanity...at her job. Prepositions...see how I threw that in there Susanlynn?
 

I absolutely hate Monica after this. I hope Esme exposes her publicly for this. I missed the ending, did Esme tell Monica anything?
 

Urban A,
Thanks for the recap. Awesome as always. Delightful and detailed.

Timing! Timing! Timing!
One thing I sometimes hate about TN's is the timing. And it is usually bad timing. I hate the fact that Montse talked before JL could tell her that he was releasing Ale. It was bad timing on Montse's part. HORRIBLE TIMING! But this just means that when Montse finds out the truth (that it was Gracie's confession to the judge that released Ale from jail) she will despise JL even more. One good thing is that Gracie told Montse that she is the one responsible for Ale being a free man. Scary part was JL's threat to Montse in the avances. JL has totally lost it.

I'm sorry, but I can't feel sorry for Adolfo. I don't feel all warm and cuddly inside because he told Fina that he still wanted her. What about BM? How about Adolfo tell Fina about his visits to BM's dressing room at La Escondida, or her apartment? If he REALLY loved Fina, he would control himself around BM. PUNTO!

Don't even get me started with Refu and Monica. OMG! As soon as Monica asked him for sex, he should have bolted. NEXT! And Monica is insensitive. I know she was drinking, but she should never have asked Refu for sex. She should never have tried to seduce him. He is a married man. What happened to the straight-laced captain? Is she only by the book when it's convenient for her? There has always been something that rubs me the wrong way about Monica. I just don't think she's the one for Dimi. I feel she's insensitive because of the time she told Esme that she should do more exercise, and the time she showed up at Esme & Refu's house wearing a top that showed her trim belly knowing how conscious Esme was about her pregnancy weight gain. She's just an insensitive beyotch! Just sayin'.

One more thing. JL's voice is really starting to annoy me.

Back to cleaning...hasta pronto!
 

Victoria Gomez,

Sorry to confuse you about BM being Gracie's daughter. It's always been a theory floating around the patio. You never know what these TN writers will throw at us. So I, for one, have always kept the idea of BM being Gracie's daughter, or at least Ben's daughter in the back of my mind.
 

Anon,
Esme didn't have time to tell Monica anything because she had a hard contraction and went into labor! Once again, GREAT TIMING!
 

AuntyAnn, your house must be spotless. You are right, I overlooked Adolfo being friends with benefits w Maria. I like him alot though, dont know why but I feel melancholy everytime he expresses his feelings for Fina. He knows she has pure heart and wants so bad to have a normal life filled with love and happiness. i feel he knows that it wont ever happen for him, but he can dream right. That Monica, ugh, I feel like kicking her butt. And refoolio too! I dont know if Esme gonna forgive him. I cant stomach JL, his voice. I hated him for asking Monse to give hum thanks for releasing Ale. She and her friend are in rhe same boat with narcisstic obnoxious cruel crazy men. leticia
 

Square faced JL and square faced Monica should get together and produce lots of square faced babies.


 

Adolfo is a far more tragic figure than Maria. He was a prodigal son who fooled around, gambled, even fleeced people of money, but had no killer instinct. He was easily seduced at the prospect of easy money, but hadn't yet realized that there's really no such thing before falling in with Pedro. Blood in, blood out is the law in Pedro's world.

His soul has now been assaulted many times over by what he has seen and done in the last seven years. I suspect he will die before this tale is over, but if he were to live a normal life span he'd never get over any of that. Even if he's still alive when Pedro is finally taken out.

"For what hath a man profited if he shall gain easy money and lose his own soul" Matthew, Ch 16 V 26.

Square faced JL and square faced Monica should get together and produce lots of square faced babies.

Can you picture her instructing a 4-year-old in making a bed with hospital corners?
 

"If he had been ballsy enough to approach her father back then he would never have gone through anything he had endured since."

A nice example of your "film noir" style but also a great reminder of the quirks of character and destiny that haunt these people. And I loved the juxtaposition of the photo and José Luis' face.

"pouring out tears like cheap beer at a frat party" [great]

"Monica returned in single layers of gauze and black lace and Refugio found his conscience" [another great line]

Thanks UA, not only for these fine, well-written recaps but for your thoughtful analysis of the characters both in your recap writing and your frequent comments. You add so much to this line.

And appreciate the quote from Matthew in your most recent comment. Whether one is religious or not, there is much wisdom in the Bible. In fact most of our great quotes, in this culture anyway, come either from the Bible or Shakespeare.

Have a great day everyone. It's brutally hot and muggy here. Taught yesterday in a non-air-conditioned gym. Whew!
 

UA, beautifully developed and mesmerizing recap. You created something lovely from the all too plentiful tears and pain last night. Your screen shots were wonderful.

So many excellent lines but "By now the other crocodiles were planning her coronation as their queen as she repeated her thanks and rose to leave" and "He cried, like a child lost in a forest at night" were my favorites.

I tried to concentrate on the superb acting last night rather than the acrid storylines. I've been remiss in not commenting that Angelique Boyer has been amazing - there has not been one poor performance in the house.

So many cringeworthy scenes - Monse and JL, Refoolio and Monica and Esme, Refoolio and Monica.

But that one single tear Adolfo shed made me tell myself that he is capable of love, even though my brain is not in agreement with my heart on this issue. He is a murderer and yes, a cheater. But something in him is raw and real. His comforting Fina came from the heart but it cannot be overlooked that he failed to confess he has cheated with Maria. For some unknown reason (to most but probably not Carlos ;)), he has chosen to protect Maria. If he feels he must then fine. But sleeping with her is a whole nother issue.

I cannot believe Dim told Fina he loved Monica. A woman who purposely goes after a pregnant woman's husband for a night of revenge. Refoolio is an idiot and proved that Esme did indeed have reason to fret. Fatima, as you noted, the intent was there even if not seen to the conclusion.

Jarifa, agree Monse should move out with heavy security but sure this will be another long drawn out imprisonment.

My biggest concern is how Fina and Dim will find each other again. It was upsetting to see that Dim apparantly doesn't love Fina as he used to.

Judy, bless you for teaching under such adverse conditions. I am sure your students appreciate you and everything you do for them.

UA, thank you again!

Diana
 

Diana- Are you sure Dim doesn't love Fina like he used to? I watched Friday's episode last night, and it looked to me like he was just trying to convince himself of that. I think he doesn't want to get hurt again. Just like Dim is the person Fina is most vulnerable with, I think Fina is the person Dim with whom Dim is most vulnerable, and it scares him.
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
 

Dear Urban Anthropologist,

Thanks for the terrific and detailed recap with beautiful screen shots. It was all really well-done and very interesting to read.

It occurs to me that we haven't seen the TUNDRA in a some time! I am starting to worry about it.

Best to all and thanks again, Urban Anthropologist, for a stellar recap.
Julia R.


 

Vivi, it appeared Dim had obvious misgivings after he initiated and made love to Fina. If he had simply said it was a mistake (and left it at that), I might have thought that was a defense mechanism. But saying he loved Monica made it appear to me he had real regrets.

Watching him frantically run to the closet realizing Monica had moved out seemed to indicate he may have uttered the truth.

I hope I'm wrong but things just aren't feeling as they should be. I had hoped for fireworks and professions of love. Let's hope that occurs ere the end.

Diana
 

Vivi, I agree with you about Dimitrio and Josefina. I think he is afraid of his own vulnerability and who could blame him once he realized how his crocodile of a mother used it against him.

He may also have realized that he was becoming like his mother when he emotionally abused Josefina on an ongoing basis. Alejandro was verbally nasty to Monse in an angry reaction to jealousy but Dim's actions were more calculated. I'm sure he doesn't like remembering that.
 

Leticia de San Antonio, I can see why you feel the way you do about Adolfo. When I see him, I think about what could have been. Adolfo knows that, too. I have no idea why he doesn't tell Fina about BM and I have no idea why he feels such a need to protect her, but as Urban pointed out in one of her wonderfully noir lines, Adolfo finally knows that BM is a lost cause.

Like Urban and others, I don't see Adolfo making it through to the end. If he does, I see him as damaged for life.

I also think that he sees in Fina the goodness and kindness of her soul. Fina has a lot of character. She knows how to be a friend. How many people really know how to be a friend? Adolfo and Dim both emotionally abused Fina. I think this continues to haunt Adolfo.

Diana, I am not sure about Dim either re Fina. I don't feel that he has any great love for Monica, but Dim has his own Demons. I'm not sure he has truly faced them all. In order to become a whole man again, he will have to face them sooner or later, but face them he must.

Leticia, one more thing, I SO agree that square faced JL and square faced and rigid Monica would produce square faced children! Personally, I don't find the chick attractive in the least, but then, I'm another chick!

JudyB, amiga, do you teach Zumba? I love Zumba!

GENERAL QUESTION: Does Poor Blind Nadia know that Adolfo works for Pedro?

Fatima
 

I love your recaps UA, so insightful and wonderfully detailed.

Everyone has jumped in early and given some great comments this morning. For me, few standout points:

Monse will not immediately try to seek to disregard her promise to JL this time. First, she wants to assure he doesn't pull the plug on Laurito's visits with his dad. But it didn't help that she saw there was the potential for violence in JL again. He may have sat on the floor and wanted to be forgiven for the attempted rape, but last night he was back to his deranged self and looked like he was one step away from hitting her. That wide-eyed reaction from her was telling.

That said, I think JL is a lost man. He has taken on Maria's warped way of thinking that somehow he will eventually "win" Monse's love if he just keeps her away from Ale. I honestly think he believes what he told Ale--he will be the one sleeping next to her each night. Yeah, right, maybe with threats and a gun nearby. Sick. Sick. Sick. Sorry, he has a very tall ladder to climb from the mire to come back out of this downslide.

Yes Adolfo in his own way loves Fina, but his life is not his own anymore and he endangers Fina by trying to bring her into his life. If he truly loves her, he should walk away.

Please Esme, kick that doofus to the curb. Both he and JL can just hit the road and go back to their bromance. (Were we supposed to be happy he had his insightful moment? )

This TN should have been retitled, Selfish Men and the Women who Love Them.

I am going back to my original wonder if Monica is not all she seems. She may have feelings for Dim, but her behavior last night was questionable:knowingly throwing herself at a married man with a pregnant wife. Boo Hoo your guy cheated on you---you don't do that!! I'm back to thinking she may turn out to be a surprise to us if that is her character.

Daisynjay

 

Daisynjay, I love your proposed title for the TN. It is absolutely PERFECT!!!

I agree with you 100% that Monica is not at all what she seems. This chick has rubbed me the wrong way since she first came into this story. I'd like to kick her to the curb right along with Refoolio.

Fatima
 

Vivi, just read your comment on Dim, and I agree. I do think there was more to his comments and behavior. He turned to Monica when he thought he needed to move on with his life after 7 years. Fina had made it plain on her return she didn't come back for him and I do think that hurt him. He never stopped loving her but he honestly believes she did stop loving him. So he made a life with Monica and they did seem content.

And I do admire that he feels he was betraying the woman he committed to. I think he feels he owes Monica for standing by him. That's way more thinking and good behavior than we are used to seeing in this TN from the men.

And looking around in a panic that Monica was gone, he felt like he was the old screw up he's been trying hard not to be. So I take it as a positive he thought it was a mistake, though it was hard to see her hurt. He may have thought she wouldn't be that invested considering her behavior after returning. And it was really a mistake with Fina whether we like them together or not. But I think they will find their way to each other eventually.

Daisynjay
 

Thanks, Urban

Beautifully written as always.

I appreciate all the work you put into this recap.

I believe that Dimitrio used the verb "querer" when talking about his feelings for Mónica. He never said he loved her - ever - either when he was with her or in the later episode with Josfina.

When D & M got together, the idea was that he was tired of going from woman to woman, and he did eventually want to settle down and have a family. Thinking that Jose was not going to return to him, he thought that M was the best alternative to come along and that
he wanted to give it a try.

When Laurito found out that Dim was moving in with Monica, Lolo thought that Dim would be getting married. Dim was quick to renounce that idea.

Yes, Dim likes Monica and felt guilty for betraying her; being with Jose was not an honorable thing to do in light of his semi commitment to Mónica, but he doesn't love her, and never said he did. He loves Josefina and she loves him y punto.

The old Dimitrio would not care if he "betrayed" a woman, but the new Dimitrio is more responsible, and that's why he feels guilty. His remorse is tied into his new responsible persona. It is not because he lost the woman he loves.
 

My take on Monica is this. The woman is the head of a unit that is in harm's way constantly. Have you noticed there are no other women in this unit? Remember when she first came to her assignment how Refug treated her? I bet she has had to put up with a lot of crap from these guys. If you have noticed the only guys she is close to is Dimi and Refug. I think she was looking for a one night stand to rub in Dimi's face because he had hurt her so badly, and so was going to sleep with his friend. What she did was wrong, agreed, especially in light of what she knew about Refug being half way in love with her and Esme being preggers. She was out to use Refug for her revenge tool. I have to give Refug credit though, he could have closed his conscience off, but he didn't. He did the right thing. Now Monica needs to do the right thing and talk to Esme, apologize and make amends.

And what is this about square faces? I think JL and Monica both have very sculpted faces because they have toned bodies and are in terrific shape.
 

Floridia: I think "love" is the key word here. If Dimitrio did not say he loved Monica, then I do have hope.

Agree that he did betray Monica and his actions in finding her gone were genuine. He had the good grace to be ashamed.

I am just disappointed he initiated love making yet wasn't ready/able to admit his feelings about Fina (if he does indeed still love her).

Diana
 

Madelaine, "square faces" was surely not intended as an insult. We know that faces have shapes and they just happen to have square faces. If you cross two square faces, I would think the odds of having children with square faces would be much higher than having children with oval faces. It would be a simple Mendelian distribution. :)

Fatima
 

On the parentage of Maria, Madeline said "There was some speculation in the beginning that Maria might have been Gaspar's wife's child, because Don Benny had raped before. It could have happened, or since Graceless was his lover for many years, who's to say it couldn't be her child too?"
Either way, Ale should not have sex or marry Maria if Benjamin is her father; she would be his half-sister. And perhaps she is.
The lost child surely is Fabs.
 

Fatima:

My bad : )
 

Thanks for another topnotch recap, UA. Great photo choices as well. Nicely done once more.

Of course I disagree with this:

"Adolfo is a far more tragic figure than Maria."

I know I can't convince you otherwise but just let me point out that Adolfo was apparently born with every advantage... María... not.

María is CRAZY... Adolfo... not.

Madelaine, I'm more inclined to think similarly to you today.

Dimitrio was tempted and yielded to temptation and yet sympathy and hope abounds for him.

Refugio was tempted, considered yielding but ultimately did not and he is held in contempt and scorned.

Go figure.

Carlos
 

My dear Carlos, I'm sure you would have to agree that there is much more depth to Dimitrio versus Refoolio.

Dimitrio has EVOLVED. Refoolio has not. Therein lies the difference. Refoolio's change of heart is only one data point on the graph and counts for nothing.

Fatima
 

Madelaine: Astute comments about what (and who) Monica endured - being one of the few women in her unit.

Admittedly, as an officer, I would think that she would have exhibited more restraint and thought about her actions and their implications.

I believe I would have been disappointed had she been a man. But, that said, are we holding her as a woman in the military to a higher standard? With your distinguished background, I would love to hear your thoughts.

Diana
 

Fatima,

I don't even like Refugio. But:

"Refoolio's change of heart is only one data point on the graph and counts for nothing."

Really? What the heck does that even mean?

Carlos
 

So... how long will it take for little Laurito to become the messenger boy for Montserrat and Alejandro?

Carlos
 

Carlos, I think the point on Refugio is "again?" with most of us. He's been a bit of a jerkwad with poor Esme off and on for the entire term of her pregnancy. He seemingly came to his senses, but getting all the way down to his skivvies wasn't exactly fighting temptation the minute he seemed to have the opportunity presented to him. One wonders if Monica hadn't taken so long to get gussied up if he would have stopped. And again, PREGNANT WIFE!. I'm sorry, that's just a no-no and there is no underlying previous relationship with Monica except his own lust that even remotely gives some reason for going astray for him.

So yep, I cut a little more slack to Dim. That's his ex-wife who went thru a lot with him and when he got beaten up and choked to an inch of his life, was right there again. I'm sure having your life possibly pass before your eyes can put you in a strange frame of mind. Again, admit it was a mistake, and so did he, but there are a couple iota points that can give what happened a little more understanding than Refugio's .

That's just me.

Daisynjay
 

Daisynjay,

"PREGNANT WIFE!. I'm sorry, that's just a no-no..."

and he didn't!

Heck, I give up... I still think he should be prosecuted for murder anyway.

Carlos
 

How did Refoolio get over to Monica's in the first place? The scene began with him just sitting there.

Did he come over in the last episode?

Zulema cracks me up. She's the only live wire on that show. Everyone else is always bitchin' and moanin'.

I like the way she flirted with the despondent Dimi. Gotta love her!
 

On the Refugio debate and outrage: A divorced friend of mine was once propositioned by a fellow who was happily married, but whose wife was in the hospital having a baby.

When she expressed shock at his actions, he shrugged his shoulder and said, "But I'm Greek!"

Evidently that was all the justification he felt he needed to hit on other women when his wife was not "available".
 

Diana:

Speaking from personal experience, I have to say that if you are a woman in the military and you work in a male dominated rating, yes, you are held to a higher standard. You have to prove yourself constantly and I think that's why I stick up so much for Monica. I haven't seen another female in the unit she commands. In the beginning the guys thought she was a joke. I can't stand that. They looked her up and down like ohhh look it's a woman. Ugh! I'm sensitive to the subject I guess because I experienced it. Halfway through my Navy career I switched from a mainly admin career to a mechanical one. I have a very good eye for detail, and would catch safety issues on planes ready for flight. There was a flight that really needed to go, but I wouldn't sign off on it, because it had a hydraulic leak. My superior chewed me out, authorized the plane to go, and it had an emergency five minutes after take off. It had lost most of the hydraulic fluid which resulted in the wheels being locked up, and it had to belly land, so to speak. Thankfully the plane landed safely, despite the wheels being locked up, the pilots were okay, and my Chief, the guy above my superior, made him apologize to me.
 

Right Carlos, though its sweet watching lil Victoria going back and forth between parenta sending hugs and kisses, dont realy feel like going that again. I do agree that Dimi's character seems more complex than Redugio, and its true R is getting no credit for coming to his senses. But its because he just managed to improve his marriage in such a grand way with mariachis', singing his heart out, ring, the whole nine yards to turn around and then do that???? I mean he had Esme believeing she was crazy. Builds her up like he did, then puts himself in that horrible position with Monica. No wonder Esme went into labor, the horror of witnessing such a terrible thing. That is why it is hard to give him "any credit." Leticia
 

Oh, and I forgot to add my superior was disciplined for allowing the flight to go anyway.
 

Refugio is a pig and Monica is a sow y punto ... regardless of the extenuating circumstances (revenge, alcohol, lust, faithfulness or faithlessness, etc). They are both truly disgusting, whether they "went through it" or not.
 

Madelaine: thank you for sharing with us.

I so admire and respect you and thank you for a job more than well done.

I can only imagine what you went through although your grim recounting is likely (unfortunately) but one of many stories you could relate.

I credit you for doing the right thing and for standing up despite what must have been terrible pressure.

I know that I have been guilty of saying Monica is somewhat rigid and "by the book" as though that were a weakness. And the truth is, that is admirable.

While I wish she hadn't tried to seduce Refugio, I'm going to look a little harder at myself. I am willing to forgive Adolfo for murder and cheating, am I not willing to forgive Monica? Guess I didn't realize how into the double standard I was.

Diana
 

Carlos- I'm not going to crucify Refugio. I think it's great that he came to his senses before it went to far. But I would fully understand if Esme decides it was too far for her (even when he gets to explain that they didn't do the deed). It would be hard to regain trust in someone after you had already crossed a hurdle, thought you were ok, and then that person takes 10 paces back.

But we saw Dim do this and much worse when he was married to Fina (remember his dalliances with young Virginia). And yet some folks were upset with her when she decided she needed to leave him. And we are almost all supportive of them getting back together in the future. So, who's to say what's in store for Refu and Esme?
 

Oh FATIMA..to answer your question. No. But yes. Yes, I think Zumba is great. Lots of fun. But no, I teach my own program which is a combination of dance, weight training, floor work and yoga-like stretching and relaxation. I love putting the sessions together, love doing it, and love my students. It is the perfect way to "almost earn a living". Thanks to my husband who had a "real job" and could pay the mortgage, etc.
 

Urban - Simply mesmerizing recap and perfect title and screencaps. Love it.

Goodness, oh my! Who knew that EZ would wind up being the best husband in Aguazul? He listens with respect to his wife, takes her suggestions seriously and acts on them, leaves her free to do whatever and go wherever, has never tried to rape her, and apparently hasn’t cheated since he turned out Maria.

I vote Esme kick Refoolio's a$$ to the curb for all the reasons given. Punto.

Madelaine, thanks for sharing your story. My sister was in the Air Force Reserves and very mechanical just like you. The problem with Monica is she's very self-centered. She didn't give Esme a single thought. She’s gotten to know Esme, been in Esme’s home, etc. Even before her troubles with Dim, Monica had no empathy for Esme's food binging. If Monica had tried to boink some random guy, instead of Refool, I'd feel more for her. Aguazul needs an El Escondido, where ladies can go when they want to act the fool.
 

Hmmm...now that I've seen the show, I actually think Esme should stay with Refugio.

(PLEASE DON'T THROW TOMATOES!!!!)

I ended up not being mad at either Monica or Refugio EVEN THOUGH THEY BOTH MADE A TERRIBLE INITIAL CHOICE. BUT BOTH THOUGHT BETTER OF IT.

They realized it was wrong...before they followed through. And of course Esme is shocked and devastated. Who wouldn't be? And while ,of course, it will take a long, long, long time for her to re-gain trust in Refugio, I think she should at least give it a try. Because they are married. And they are having a child together. This is a relationship worth fighting for, no matter how deep the current wounds are. Divorce is also deeply wounding. And growing up without a father in the home also.

Of course, opinions may vary. This is just my perspective.
 

Diana, It is nice to hear that you are rethinking your supposed "double standard," (i think you are just fine, expressing your honest reaction). I am embarrassed for my posting about square faced M and JL. When I saw my posting, I realized how mean spirited and petty that statement was. I deleted it immediately, or so I thought. Madeline is correct, their faces are sculpted. I know in the long run I will forgive Refugio for his stupidy and that because I wanted Esme to have happy pregnancy. Instead she was just miserable and not her fault because she KNEW something was up with him when his touch "went cold." He would convince her she was crazy. Why do guilty men often resort with having their woman feel even worse by convincing them that they are crazy. I Cant believe I'm gioing o share this, but I so identify with Esme. Two, not one, but 2 of my ex's connvinced me, family and friends hat I had mental issues when I suspected unfaithfulnes. I even went to counseling with their full support to get help. Guess what? Truth always comes out, eventually it was revealed my first ex fathered a son during that time. The second one, I found out pretty much the same way Esme did. I sure know how to pick them. I am less forgiving when someone plays with your mind. I told my mom about Monse doing fine by herself, but her well meaning friends convinced her it was time to restart her life with JL. They shoulda left alone, now she in hot mess. Its only a novela, its only a novela. Got to go sell some houses. Bye, Leticia
 

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On the Refugio debate and outrage: A divorced friend of mine was once propositioned by a fellow who was happily married, but whose wife was in the hospital having a baby.

When she expressed shock at his actions, he shrugged his shoulder and said, "But I'm Greek!"

This makes me remember a story told by a long-ago Italian boyfriend (1st gen US):

One set of his grandparents were old-school Catholics who were somehow under the impression that a pregnant woman should be regarded as being in a State of Grace. When his grandmother was pregnant and preparing pasta sauce from scratch in the kitchen, the local hooker made a house call and was boinking his grandfather upstairs.

It isn't easy to render me speechless but that almost did it.

There are statistics out there that say that men are most likely to be unfaithful when their wives are pregnant. Also that domestic violence escalates during pregnancy.

I've wondered through all this nonsense with Refoolio is about his fear of parental responsibility. We don't know his backstory, but it's possible that his father was no great shakes and he turned to the military for the same reason as JL.
 

Carlos, one data point (in this case, Refoolio realizing he was about ready to do the wrong thing), does not a trend make. One data point is not enough for me to create a graph that can give me bona fide infos. You knew what I meant, you're just razzing me! Lol! :))

Leticia, I sure didn't see your comment about square faces as insulting. I've already told Madelaine what my comments meant. See above so at not to repeat myself.

JudyB, amiga,I see your point re Refoolio and Esme. Given the kind of person that I am, I would have significant trust issues with someone like Refoolio given his longstanding INTENT. Sorry, but intent figures into the equation here for ME.

Madelaine, I am SO proud of you!!!

Also, my amiga, JudyB, I sure wish I could take one of your classes. I love the Zumba because it's a great work out and so liberating, but some of the teachers do not have a progressive plan for working various muscle groups. I have one really good teacher that I just love and I am SURE I would love your class!!

Fatima
 

Leticia: I cannot imagine how difficult and painful your experiences have been. But how wonderful that you endured, a better, stronger and wiser woman!

Our journey through life shapes us, defines us and tests our character and resolve. If we fail to let the negative taint our spirit and weaken our resolve, yet embrace kindness and empathy, that is all we can ask of ourselves.

I am laughing at "Its only a novela, its only a novela". I tell myself that daily yet consistently seem to be getting worked up over this particular novela. Hope you sold a house!

Diana
 

Diana,

Amiga don't be so hard on yourself, what Monica did was indeed wrong. Now if Monica will stand up and go to Esme and own up to what she did, then I will respect her more. She lost some points with me this epi for her venganza schtick. I'm just so very happy that Refug came to his senses and told her no. Better late than never.

Leticia:

Oh, to have that happen to you I am so glad that those losers went the way of the curb and are gone from your life. Selling houses, what a great career but tough, si?

Carlos:

I am still laughing. We finally agree, you made my day!

Fatima:

Thank you kindly Amiga.

Urban:

I am still flabbergasted about what happened to your old boyfriend's Memaw (Granny) for goodness sakes! I kind of laughed too, cause what Esme's Gyno told her is so very true. I guess guys just don't get it do they?
 

Fatima,

you are right, I did have some idea of what you meant, but although he truly was a jerk during much of Esme's pregnancy he eventually did the right thing and their marriage was humming along. At this point he is more guilty of stupidity than actually being unfaithful. I could perfectly understand if Esme were to dump his butt, but like Judy, I think that would be a shame.

I think a lot of the negativity directed at Refugio as well as at Monica stems from their participation in the overkill of Alejandro's apprehension. They were carrying out their orders and actually the presence of the soldiers at his arrest may have prevented a possible tragedy given JL's state of mind.

Carlos
 

I do love how we all agree to disagree and have fun with it at the same time!

My admiration to Mads, Leticia. Going through those trials and hardships at the time is difficult, but you both seem to be wonderfully stronger for what you went through. Brava!

And Judy, my friend. I have been sitting her at my office desk today moaning and groaning about having to walk back and forth to the printer for the upteemth time as someone sends me something, and you are conducting an workout class, in the heat no less. I am humbled and also inspired to get off my duff when I get home and hit the workout room in my bldg. (You go girl!)

Daisynjay
 

Carlos:

I am still scratching my head about why the Navy was there during Ale's arrest. But then again, JL had asked for an assist so maybe in the back of his brain he didn't trust himself to arrest him without harm, so he asked for the assist to ensure he didn't harm Ale. The Navy's presence in Aguazul is mainly drug interdiction on land and sea.
 

UA: When you publish, please let us know. I’ll pre-order from Amazon. You are amazing. Thank you for reminding us of JL’s backstory.

I may be wrong, but didn’t Refoolio open the door to Monica’s apartment—as he was dressing (idiot)--just as Esme was about to knock?

The problem is, what’s to keep him from getting tempted again? How can Esme ever trust him?
I’d insist he transfer out of Monica’s unit—if that’s possible.

UA: I find Maria tragic, but agree that maybe Adolfo is the more tragic figure. Maria’s mental illness means she will follow her path because she really can’t help herself. As for Aldofo, so many times he could have taken a different road and didn’t and then he took the ultimate road to hell by hooking up with Pedro. And now with Fina in town he realizes that no matter what he does to make up for his past, he still will not be “clean” enough for her. He’s doomed. It’s very sad. (Carlos, can I still sit with you at the Maria table?)

Diana: Dim may have told Fina that he loved Monica as a defense mechanism. They both are trying so hard not to get hurt again. Plus, Dim does love Monica, but I don’t think he’s in love with her.

I’m with you Daisy and Fatima. I don’t like Monica. I never have. If you think about it, she’s a little obsessed with Dim. Didn’t she wait seven years for him to come around?

Mads, you’re a hero!!! I watch an air plane disaster show on one of the networks. It’s morbidly fascinating. It’s unconscionable that your superior OK’d the take off.

Mons is going to feel that all bets are off since she didn’t have to make that promise to JL.

Nanette
 

Nanette,

of course you are always welcome at the María table although I don't see how consciously and sanely making unwise choices makes one a more tragic figure than someone afflicted with mental illness.

Carlos
 

Carlos, excellent point about the military presence. JL would have been completely insane to have lost it in front of them.

However, I can't agree with you about Maria. Poverty didn't bother her very much; it wasn't like she came down from being rich and couldn't cope. She had opportunities to leave the hacienda and make a better life for herself and she didn't take them. She chose to stay after it was clear that Alejandro had married Monserrat and was in love with her. She resisted the idea of seeing a shrink.

No pity for her.
 

So many interesting comments today. Infidelity, or the threat of infidelity, is extremely disturbing even though it's "just a telenovela". And as UA would say, "Don't ask me how I know."

And can Esme ever completely trust Refugio again? No. Never. She knows what he's {almost} capable of.

However, none of us can ever completely trust ourselves or another person. It would be nice if we could, but humans are notoriously frail. In the right situation, we all are capable of infidelity, murder, and all kinds of abuse.

When in love, we marry illusions. And at some point, those illusions are shattered. And then we have the hard job of learning to love, rather than just "being in love".

I would certainly never counsel a woman to stay with an unfaithful husband. Nor would I counsel her to leave. Each case is different. And needs to be thought about very carefully. Daily. Perhaps for the rest of her life.

Each day Esme can decide to stay with Refugio, knowing his frailties. But each day she can also decide to leave. I just don't think the decision should be taken right now. It never hurts to wait. And see.

Leticia--thanks for sharing your story. This is a safe place. You will be listened to with love and respect.

Daisynjay--heck, popping up and down to go to the printer can be darned annoying. But the experts say that getting up once an hour is really key when you have a desk job. So I'm glad you had to get up and go. I can tell you though, I was dragging my azz when I got home from work yesterday!
 

Carlos: I think it's because Adolfo is aware that he lost his soul when he chose the path he chose. Maria is oblivious. I think Maria will die thinking that if only Mons hadn't shown up and if only she (Maria) had had the opportunity of one night of lovemaking with Ale, then everything she wanted would have been hers. She won't go down easy.
 

JL seems to have forgotten that Monse's willingness to sacrifice for Alejandro is an expression of true love.

That she will not ultimately do this will be about finding out JL's deception.

There is a saying that all it takes for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing. In the 7 years that JL has been in the joint and Alejandro in a coma Pedro rose from being mayor of Aguazul to being governor of the state. Basurto went from police chief to mayor.

Obviously a whole town is asleep at the switch. Refugio doesn't have the brain cells to lead in this situation and Dimitrio could never have done anything on his own. Nobody had even the faintest clue about who shot Monserrat and Adolfo is too weak to rat her out.
 

UA,

"...Adolfo is too weak to rat her out."

Or perhaps the fact that Adolfo is a drug dealer and a serial killer himself has something to do with that. I don't think that he is exactly a concerned citizen.

Carlos
 

A little late to the party today, but I wanted to thank Urban for the great recap. What a fantastic way to reconnect, with the story of JL, and how life brought him to the point where he is today:

"He had always been an honorable man until he failed to tell Monserrat that her husband was alive. The consequences of that sin had begun. Now he would do anything to separate her from this man."

Coincidentally, my husband, who never watches with me, but likes poking his head in every now and then and hears tidbits while he is in the room, walked in last night during the scene were Monse renounced Ale in order to give him a chance to get out of jail and clear his name. The hubs immediately asked, "what's up with that guy (JL)? didn't he used to be a good guy, now he's bad?" Exactly! I couldn't take anymore of his smugness last night. If Monse had only waited, Ale would have probably walked out without JL's help, thanks to the judge intervening. I was glad the judge wasn't fooled again, and is seriously looking into upholding the law.

Daisynjay and Fatima, I'm with you on the feelings toward Monica. There is something about her that isn't all together right for me, and I think it traces back to her insensitivity towards Esme. Also, after seven years in a place, it seems very strange that she hasn't made one single girlfriend, and only has Dim and Refugio. Anyhow, even before she was drunk, she said she would get even with Dim, by doing the same thing, so she did think about it, and tried to put it into play with Refugio knowing he is married, with a baby on the way, and taking advantage of the crush she knows he had on her. Just glad they ultimately came to their senses, but the moment Refulio walked out the bedroom, getting dressed in the process, I knew he would open the door and Esme would be there! Now both need to apologize and explain to Esme, and hopefully there can be a reconciliation.

Maricruz

 

Wow Urban, really nice job. I agree with your assessments. Maria started out 'sane' and made choices which lead her down a dark path, refusing most help. The same with Adolfito, except he was extremely weak, lost and pliable. He took the easy paths and now there's no return. As for Refoolio, he's both weak and stupid. However, even he can see it's common sense to know that after his last reconciliation with Esmeralda, he should be on best behavior. If he really cared for Esmeralda, he would have kept as far away as possible from Monica. He has no respect for Esmeralda, but they'll probably be together in the end.
Marea Primavera
 

Carlos, what an EXCELLENT observation about having the Navy there when JL arrested Alejandro; what an excellent point!

Urban, absolutely agree that JL does not recognize that Montserrat's actions and requests only show how much she loves Alejandro. What he is doing to her with the body guards, etc is really crossing the line. The comment I REALLY liked, though, was that everyone in this little Blue Water town is Asleep At The Wheel (which in real life is a wonderful musical group!!)

JudyB amiga mia, " And then we have the hard job of learning to love, rather than just "being in love". EVERYTHING you stated in the paragraph above is worth saving and re-reading, but this hit home.

What an absolute treasure all of you are on this wonderful blog!

Fatima
 

Wonderful recap, and it really brings everything up to date, great screenshots. I can't watch the show now but I feel I am totally caught up with the story.
 

JudyB: "none of us can ever completely trust ourselves or another person. It would be nice if we could, but humans are notoriously frail. In the right situation, we all are capable of infidelity, murder, and all kinds of abuse." It sad but true about the human condition. You possess true insight about human nature and are so compassionate that surely you are a counselor or psychiatrist. UA, is it true you are getting published? Not surprized at all, I have read some of your brillant observations and I would love to purchase anything you write. I am so amazed at this entire group of geniuses, with a sense of humor to boot. I am constantly wowed by all of you, too many for me address. What a passionate group you are. Sincerely, Leticia