Caray, Caray!

Skipping the old and right into the new...

Acacia, Manuel and Luisa walk up to the river and reminisce about old times. He takes off his shirt and wants to get into the water. Luisa doesn't want him to throw her in the water like when they were kids. He chases her around.

Cris asks how the kids are doing. Everything is well now that German has agreed to run the hacienda. Norberto is so happy. Cris thinks Norberto should know that German is still painting.

Esteban silently gallops up to Acacia who some weird reason decides to change her clothes in the middle of the forest for all to see. He gazes at her nude body at a way no stepfather ought to.

Cris has never forgiven Alonso for not sharing their economic troubles with her. Juliana says one never knows how Norberto once he has an idea in his head. He thinks that it would be great if Manuel aka Manolo and Acacia were dating. Cris doesn't think it's a bad idea. They do make a pretty couple.

Back at the river Acacia finally puts on her bikini top and turns around to find Esteban drooling...I mean looking at her. What the hell do you want asks Acacia sweetly. came looking for you says Esteban. I understand that you came here with some friends. So your capataz came to you complaining that I brought Luisa with me asks Acacia. Are you going to tell me that I cannot make any decisions regarding MY hacienda? Of course not replies Esteban. It was my fault for not telling anyone that you had returned. Rosa had planned a big to do meal on your return. I have fixed the problem and sent word to everyone that you are now here and to treat you the way you deserve. So your telling me that you are the boss here and instructed everyone to treat me as if I owned the place asks Acacia.

Ana comes across a couple of ladies and asks for directions to the Hacienda Benavente.

Esteban asks why she always thinks the worst of him? He came to tell her that the secretary at the co-op is leaving. He knows that Luisa is a good worker and wondered if she wanted him to hire her friend for the position. Acacia tells him to not give her any favors. If you want her to take the position, you go and talk to her. Well, if you are not interested then I will find.... but gets interrupted with Manuel carrying Luisa back. Luisa quickly jumps out of his arms and tries to explain why she is there. Esteban interrupts her and says he knows that Acacia invited her to come and there is no problem. He will leave them alone now. He gets on his horse and rides away. Manuel wonders if there is a problem. Just that I can't stand him replies Acacia.

Juliana says farewell to Cris and will be back later with Norberto for lunch. Cris reminds her to think about her offer for German. She comes across Esteban coming in and gives him a nice peck on the cheek. Personally I think she wanted to plant it somewhere else and I can't blame the woman. I wouldn't mind planting one myself. On the kisser. Anyway, Esteban tells Cris that he loves her, can't stop thinking of her and there is no other woman for him. He leans in for a kiss and she is surprised by his display of affection. Don't you like it when I'm affectionate asks Esteban. Of course and I am glad that you still feel this way. Of course, from the first moment I saw you says Esteban. They smooch.

Manuel tells Acacia to stop thinking of her stepfather. They came here to have some fun. He goes after Luisa and pushes her into the lake and tries with Acacia but she begs him not to. She will go in herself. He says something sweet to her that I couldn't hear and they hug. You can see the jealousy coming out of Luisa's pores. She decides to splash the couple and tells them to come join her.

Cris brings Esteban some refreshment. She tells him that he will have to quit soon since they will be having company coming soon for lunch. He says he has lots of work to do, but she wants him to put it off for the afternoon. She and Acacia are heading into town for some girl bonding later on. He says he also has to go to attend to some business. Let's all go together? She agrees and they smooch again.

Manuel, Acacia and Luisa return to the hacienda. He admits he had a great time and suggests going again. Luisa, the third wheel, pipes up that it's a great idea. He has to go home and change, but will be back for lunch. He kisses Acacia goodbye and completely forgets to bid Luisa farewell. She waves sadly. She tells Acacia that she's going back to work in the kitchen with her grandmother. She walks off sadly and up comes Ana. She wonders if Acacia was serious about helping her. Of course says Acacia. Even though you know that I am a prostitute asks Ana. That doesn't change anything says Acacia. We all deserve a chance. I want another chance says Ana. I want to change but every time I try, things go bad. Acacia promises to help her.

Rosa is frantically trying to get lunch together when Luisa walks in. She apologizes for going off and leaving her. Didn't you have fun asks Rosa. You look so serious walking in. I'm tired from the swim replies Luisa.

Ana explains her escape and feels bad that she didn't stay to bury her brother. There was nothing else you could do says Acacia. The important thing is that you escaped. Ana hysterically says that is why I took the briefcase. That lowlife is probably looking everywhere for me. Acacia tells her to calm down. He will not find you here. I will never allow him to take you and suggests reporting him to the police. I can't says Ana. You have no idea what this man is capable of . He will send someone to kill me. Look what he did to me when I tried to leave the first time. She shows Acacia her scar on the side of her face. There are things that I can't tell you. It will put you in danger. She cries hysterically. Acacia tries to comfort her. She suggests Ana take a bath and she will bring her food. You can stay here for a few days until we can think of something. Ana wonders if her parents will be mad. Of course not says Acacia. My father is dead and I don't care what my stepfather says. I know my mom will not have a problem with you being here. She is a wonderful person.

German aka big sexy is changing clothes when Manuel comes knocking. German wonders how he fared with Acacia. Wonderful answers a smitten Manuel. I like her a lot and am thinking about dating her. Dad says you are not coming to lunch. Why? I have an appointment to sell the pigs. Didn't you do that yesterday asks Manuel. I just told dad that so I can go off and paint says German. But I really do have that appointment today. But tell my future sister-in-law that I’m glad she's back and will come see her soon. Manuel came to ask him a favor. His friend Ulysses, an architect, is in town and needs some pictures to be painted and he suggested him. Are you interested? Of course says German. He would be delighted.

Ana tells Acacia before being sold into prostitution, she went to school and knows how to read and write. If you give me work....but Acacia stops her. She thinks Ana should rest for a couple of days after everything she has been through. She gives her a dress to change into. Knock on the door and Acacia tells Ana to go change in the bathroom. Acacia opens the door and it's Cris. She came to find out how her outing went. Didn't Esteban tell you asks Acacia. He came to bother me. I don't want him in my business. You need to tell him that. Cris doesn't understand. How did he bother you? I took Luisa with me and the capataz told him. I don't understand why it's such a big deal for her to come. She is my friend and it never was a problem in the past. Don't worry says Cris. He knows that Rosa and Luisa are like family to us. Did he ask you to have Luisa come back and work? No, but if he insisted I would never have allowed it replies Acacia. So talk to him and tell him not to talk to me. She then stomps her foot. Well...not really. But she's acting like a 2 year old and that would have completed the picture. Cris reminds her that she promised to try and get along with Esteban. He has always cared for you. Don't you remember the gifts he left you at the window when you were little? Or how he taught you to take care of Palomino? Ana comes out of the bathroom and Acacia introduces her to Cris. She had some problems and I told her that she could come and stay with us for a few days. Cris thought she knew all of Acacia's friends and asks if she went to the same school. Ana tries to answer but Acacia says she will tell her later. In walks Luisa to let Cris know her guests have arrived. Acacia can't believe they have already arrived. She hasn't bathed or gotten her war paint on. Cris says no worries. Just get ready quickly. I will be waiting for you both. Ana nervously shakes her head and grabs Acacia's hand. Acacia says Ana just came from a long trip and wants to rest instead. Cris wonders if everything is okay. Of course answers Acacia. We were talking and that is why I am late. But I will get ready now. Cris welcomes Ana to her home and leaves. Luisa just stares at Ana and then leaves. Ana feels bad for keeping Acacia from getting ready but she tells Ana not to worry. Ana wants to know who is Esteban? My mothers husband answers Acacia. I can't stand him but my mother adores him.

Luisa offers the guests a drink. Norberto wants a tequila and when she calls Manuel by his name and asks what he would like to drink, Juliana jumps down her throat. Juliana says Luisa should address him as Joven Manuel. Manuel sticks up for Luisa and says all that nonsense is old school. They have known each other since kids and are friends. That was when you were young replies Juliana. You are now a man and now one of the owners of the most important fincas in Soto. You understand me girl don't you? Luisa runs off crying. Cris sticks up for Luisa and reminds Juliana their conversation just this morning about class and how that is not important anymore. Norberto grabs Juliana and gives her the look. The look says zip it woman! Manuel reminds her that they are their to celebrate Acacia's return. Esteban agrees and says we need to celebrate the return of my lady's daughter.

Ana is nervous. Your mother thinks we have known each other for years and I know nothing about you. Acacia says she and her mother will be going into town later today. I will buy you some clothes and this evening tell you a little bit about me in case someone asks you. Ana thanks her for everything she is doing for her. She will never forget. No, thank you Ana replies Acacia. Ana says that she doesn't want to be called that anymore. It was what that guy called me. She wants to be called by her middle name Alejandra. Acacia thinks its a great name and she should use it now that she is starting a new life.

Rosa asks Luisa what's the matter? Ever since that outing this morning, you have a long face. What happened? Luisa says you know how I feel about Manuel. His mother doesn't like it that we are such great friends. Rosa warned her. We are not the same. I tried to avoid having you experience this pain. I am glad you now realize that that guy is not for you. Luisa says it hurts and will make things a bit more difficult. Manuel defended me. He doesn't care about classes. Rosa doesn't want Luisa to suffer.

Luisa brings drinks in and Manuel smiles at her. Acacia comes in and Norberto is surprised at first then welcomes her. Juliana gives her a hug. She runs to her mother and gives her a hug. Esteban wants to toast for the return of the she-devil aka Acacia. Even though she doesn't want me in her life, she came back to the love of her mother. I hope the love that I feel for your mother will one day unite us. Nothing will make me happier then to see you both united replies Cris. Salute yells Manuel. He grabs Acacia's hand and pulls her away. She begs him to stay with her. She feels disgusted to be around Esteban. I want to shout at him that I will never accept him and to leave. But my mother loves him so much. Manuel tells her to forget about it and talk about something else. She wonders what the town says about Esteban. Manuel says no one talks of Esteban anymore. Since your mother never cared what was said, it finally died down. So what do they say of him now asks Acacia. They all have respect for him replies Manuel. They all say how happy he and your mom are. He goes and pulls Cris away from Esteban and wants a picture of her and Acacia together. They smile at the camera and Esteban stares creepily at them.

Cris and Acacia are enjoying an Italian ice in town. They talk about Alonso. Acacia thought Cris had forgotten all about him. Never replies Cris. We were a good couple and together we had you and formed a great family. I still don't understand why he had to die says Acacia. We all think that says Cris. But I have learned we all have to move forward. Yes, like how quickly you moved on with Esteban replies Acacia. Perhaps you are right says Cris. Do you think things would have been different if I had waited longer to marry Esteban? At the end of the day, I am the one responsible not Esteban. Why did you fall in love asks Acacia. It's hard to explain answers Cris. It's just something you feel. Maybe when you fall in love, you will understand. I always liked how Esteban treated you as a child. I can say millions of good things about him but I think you trying to get along with him is best. You will see. They get up to leave and in comes Esteban yelling at a young cutie. He's upset the cutie walked off when he was talking. Esteban tells him that his project won't start up and if he doesn't like it, he can leave town. The cutie doesn't care what Esteban is saying. Esteban tells the guy he has been warned. The cutie says likewise. Esteban tells the women it's time to leave. Acacia tells her mom that she still has a few more things to buy and to send someone from the hacienda to pick her up later. Esteban tries to put his foot down. Cris says to let her stay if she wants. Acacia warns Esteban not to interfere in her decisions. He and Cris leave. The cutie turns away and sees a lady selling scarves. He buys a red one and returns to Acacia. He hopes he didn't cause her any problems. You must think I’m a hooligan. On the contrary answers Acacia. You are the first one to confront Esteban since I have been back. Everyone does what he says except you. He introduces himself as Ulysses. She wonders why they were arguing. I am an architect with a project that the city approved but Senior Dominguez doesn't like. He wonders how she knows Esteban. I don't want to talk about him replies Acacia. I also can't stand him. Ulysses offers to buy her a drink.

Esteban and Cris walk into the house with him yelling that she should never have allowed her daughter to stay in town alone. Cris says it's been awhile since she was here and it's normal for her to want to see old places and people. Esteban keeps at it which annoys Cris. Finally he relents and asks her to forgive him. That guy put me in a bad mood. I understand but neither I nor Acacia are at fault points out Cris.

Acacia and Ulysses are yapping it up. He finds out that she lives at Benaventa. So Esteban is your father and owner of the hacienda? No answers Acacia. My mother is the owner and he is just my mother's husband. I don't want to talk about him.

Manuel asks Norberto if he were to work harder at the hacienda will be not send him away to study? Perhaps replies Norberto. Why do you want to stay? Is it because of Acacia? Yes in part replies Manuel. Well I would be happy if you two got together. But remember she is not like the other girls. If you date her, it will be serious.

Acacia tells Ulysses that she still misses her father. I feel the same way replies Ulysses. He also lost his father. He know lives with his brother and mother. It was not easy but she educated us and gave us great memories of my father. How can you be happy asks Acacia. I still feel such deep pain over the death of my father. Think about all the beautiful things life has given you answers Ulysses. Life may have taken him from you but it has also surrounded you with those that love you. He hopes that he can help her feel less sad. I hardly know you but you have made me feel better says Acacia. Ulysses wants to keep seeing her.

Luisa tells Cris that she took Acacia's friend some food and she ate it all. Esteban walks in while the ladies are talking of Ana. She brought a friend he asks. He asks Luisa to leave so that he can talk to Cris alone. He wonders why Ana never came to eat with them or went to town. She's tired from her long journey and I wanted to be alone with my daughter. Esteban came to ask her forgiveness for the way he acted. He doesn't want to ever fight. You use to say that when I would buy you expensive gifts and you would walk away angry. But I always came back asking you to forgive me says Esteban. She laughs and says you always said it was okay to fight as long as the making up part came quickly. That is why I am here and they smooch some more.

Ulysses wants to get to know the town better and wonders if she will show him. It's been a long time since I have been here replies Acacia. They talk a bit about the places they have been and he wants to take her to a place that is special to him in the country. She agrees.

German aka big sexy gets onto Manuel for spending his money betting on cock fights. If you don't want to work then accept dad's offer to send you to school in the capital. I don't want to replies Manuel. You know how dad is. He has his ideas. For example with your painting. If he finds out, he will kill you. Speaking of that, I need to give you my friends number, the one that wants you to paint for him. His name is Ulysses Torres.

Ulysses offers to take her to the hacienda but a worker already came for her. He asks for her number. She puts it into his phone and he quickly calls her phone so that she has his number. He promises to pick her up tomorrow.

Ana stares at the picture her brother drew. Knock on the door and it's Cris. She wants to make sure that Ana is doing well. Her daughter told her that she had a problem with her family. Yes, but I don't want to talk about that right now replies Ana. I prefer that you call me Alejandra. That is my other name. I don’t want to cause any problems and if you want I can leave. No, if you are friends with my daughter and she invited you then stay say Cris. I will have the maid get a room ready for you. Do your parents know where you are? I can no longer count on my parents answers Ana aka Alejandra. So who takes are of you asks Cris. Please have confidence in me. I feel something bad has happened to you. Alejandra admits the person responsible for her was not a good person and starts crying. Cris offers her a hug.

Acacia asks Manuel for a favor. She understands that his father is looking for a secretary and wondered if he will hire her friend. Manuel agrees to talk to his dad but she has to stay for dinner.

Esteban and Cris are eating dinner and he points out that it's dark and Acacia has not returned. Cris informs him that she is eating dinner at her compardes house. Anyway Manuel is like a brother to her. Juliana commented that since the kids are so close that perhaps they will end up novios. Only because she can't stand Luisa to be near her son replies Esteban. Perhaps your right answers Cris. Juliana thinks differently when it comes to that. I remember what she told Luisa today and remember how she looked at me when I was just a simple worker here says Esteban. She has accepted you just like Norberto has points out Cris. I hope the same happens with Luisa. I agree says Esteban. I saw how Manuel treated Luisa down by the river. I think his interest is more than just friendship.

Luisa comments to Rosa that she finds Alejandra strange. She is always covering up her face with her hair. And if she really is Acacia's friend it's impossible for her not to know who I am. They talk some more and it turns to Manuel. Rosa says you can never be happy in life if you don't know your station.

Acacia comes home to find Esteban and Cris smooching some more. Esteban rudely asks where she has been. They were getting worried. Acacia ignores him and tells Cris she will tell her later how her evening went. Esteban decides to leave to get some work done. Cris wonders what's the matter. Acacia didn't like seeing her being affectionate with Esteban. He's my husband replies Cris. She asks Acacia how she met her friend. I met her by my house one day replies Acacia. Why? What did she tell you? Cris recounts her conversation with Ana aka Alejandra. Acacia says she wants to start a new life here. I promised to help her. I agree says Cris. She needs lots of love and between the two of us, we will make sure she gets it.

Manuel tells Norberto about Acacia's friend who is looking for work. He begs him to hire her. I want to be in her good graces. Norberto agrees.

Ulysses is working and picks his phone up and calls Acacia. She picks up and he tells her he was thinking of her. I was thinking of you too admits Acacia. I was just telling my mother about you. I told her that we are going out tomorrow. They sign off. Acacia admits she met a wonderful guy. Cris wants to know more. She says it finally seems Acacia will be falling in love.

German looks at the picture he drew of Ana aka Alejandra. Knock on the door and it's Norberto. Before he enters, German quickly hides his drawings. He tells German, that he has an appointment tomorrow. A girl will be coming for the secretarial position. Her name is Alejandra. This is a favor for Acacia.

Yes!! the gods are listening and I get a lovely view of Esteban's naked torso. Cris comes in and asks if he knows a guy named Ulysses Torres. Of course replies Esteban. It's that idiot I argued with in town. Acacia started talking to him...but Cris doesn't finish. Esteban angrily says he told her not to let Acacia stay in town. That guy is a jerk. He wants to build a commercial building in the park. I don't think the city officials will let him replies Cris. Who knows how he got them to accept says Esteban. He could be corrupt.

Acacia tells Alejandra about meeting Ulysses and how wonderful he is. Alejandra says it all sounds good but be careful. They seem great at first but could be despicable. Acacia tells her not to worry. She brought her some clothes in case she gets the job. Alejandra thanks her and says her friend Luisa came by thinking Alejandra knew all about her. Acacia explains that she and Luisa have been friends since they were kids. She practically knows everything about me. But I will tell her tomorrow all about you. Alejandra gets nervous and tells her not to. No one should know abut her. If that guy finds her here, everyone could be in danger. I am sure he will kill me. I beg you not to tell anyone about me.

Esteban starts his rant about Ulysses plans and how it will ruin everything. Ulysses wanted him to hear about his plans as if he had time. Please talk to Acacia and warn her about him. She won't listen to me. Cris agrees.

The next day and German gets ready to receive the new girl. It's the one from town that he drew.
Alejandra.

Cris tells Acacia that Ulysses is not a good guy. She says he wants to build a commercial building that it will ruin the air and destroy the park. He doesn't care as long as he makes money.

German can't believe Alejandra is there. Alejandra says she doesn't know him and tries to walk away. He grabs her and says he saw her in the park the other day. She looked so sad. Do I have to talk about my personal life in order to get the job asks Alejandra. No, I just wanted to get to know you better replies German. You came well recommended by Acacia. She is a good friend of mine. Ever mind, take a seat and we will talk about the job.

Ulysses gets ready for his outing and Acacia drives up. He tries to kiss her hello but she pushes him away. She says she will never go anywhere with him. She found out he wants to destroy the town park.

Monday: Acacia starts falling in love with Ulysses; Ulysses shows up at the house which angers Esteban; Cris doesn't feel well and faints