Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Pasión y Poder #6 Martes 11/10/15



Chapter 6: The End of Purgatory Season

Arturo called the foundation but the call went to Julia's home. She was thrilled at the sound of his voice but Eladio entered behind her. She cut the call short and told him it was a generous donor. She suggested they call David so Eladio can make up with him. He called David and spoke of making up with Julia and asked him to come home. David didn't believe a word of it. Eladio said he was changing his ways and the mansion's doors were open to him. He then passed the phone to Julia so she could persuade David. She told him that his father had turned over a new leaf and everything would be alright.

David may initially have been somewhat convinced by his mother's words. He said he wasn't able to come home so quickly. She understood but said she looked forward to him coming home. When they ended the call David looked like he knew he had been had. Julia was completely taken in by Eladio's change of manner.
Happy?”
Yes.”
He cupped her jaw in his hand. “You have always been so beautiful,” he said. “Always.” He embraced her and she him. She might not have recognized the expression of fear in her own eyes.
Of course, this was only a tactic. Even the finest masterpiece by Michaelangelo could fall into shards if there were a single vulnerable crack that was tapped the wrong way. As a prominent captain of industry Eladio could not risk anything that could show cracks in the marble. Thus far he had been fortunate, but the Wheel of Fortune turns and it cannot be bribed indefinitely.

Arturo talked with Augustin about the call to Julia. When he finished describing it Augustin realized that Eladio had to have interrupted it. His instinct said that Eladio was a very jealous man. Arturo wanted desperately to meet with Julia but Augustin advised against it. He reminded Arturo that both of them were married and had families. This could be potentially contentious. Arturo may have been imagining that Julia truly hoped to see him at the foundation's offices because of her exit line, but he was desperate to see her.

Thomas Wolfe once told America that You Can't Go Home Again. The past always looks better in retrospect than it actually was. Simona reminded Julia that it was not usually good to look back at it.
There is so much that has to be said. Arturo was the love of my life,” Julia said.
Was, or is?”
He still is. I can't make an excuse for it, Simona. But when I heard his voice all the memories came rushing back.”
Yes, I know. That does a lot. But he is also married.”
I know. Not only that he's my husband's major competitor.”
This could go very badly.”

Daniela and David walked along the beach in Cancun. She wore a white shell necklace reminiscent of the puka shell fad in the 1970s; she had been looking through a selection of them while David was on the phone with his mother. To any casual observer they looked like a charming young couple.
Thanks for the necklace. It's rather rustic but nice.”
No problem.” 
As soon as I get something all the other girls have to buy ones like it.”
Really?”
Of course. They can't come up with anything original. I'm a fashion taste-maker!” Her cell phone rang.
Hello,” she said without checking who was calling.
I'm just calling to tell you that you won't reach your goal of ruining my life.”
What are you talking about?”
I just got Joshua to admit that you two were kissing just as I saw.”
Oh, it's no big deal! He's had others before and if you want – ”
You are nothing but a tart.”
Shut up!”
I am ashamed that you're my sister.”
You're not going to go running to Dad – ”
Regina cut off the call. Daniela was not careful to hide her petulant expression.
Are you alright? What happened?”
It was my sister. She's so pompous.” [fasta] “I'm not letting her ruin my vacation.”
Just relax and take a few deep breaths. Really; I'm a genius. I learned this in the hospital.”
Okay. It's better we don't talk about her.” She did so and looked at him. “Let's go. My friends are waiting.”

Joshua was determined not to concede defeat and it was annoying Regina. He brought her a bouquet of her favorite flowers. 
The problem is that you haven't been listening to what I've been saying,” Regina said. “Last night I was thinking --”
Me, too. I know what we have to do. Declare that this was all a bad dream and go through with our wedding plans.”
Alright, Joshua. Tell me something but sincerely: Would you forgive me for doing something like this?”
If you did that I'd kill him.”
Really? Therefore, how can you ask me to forgive you?”
Rather than answer her question he knelt before her and presented a box. It could have contained expensive chocolates or jewelry.
Stop it, Joshua,” she said. “Take back the flowers and the engagement ring and listen to what I'm telling you.”
But, my love --”
No, Joshua. We can't go on as though this never happened. Take these back. I'm returning the dress today.”
Give me one chance to win you back. To make you happy.”
No.”
She turned her back on him and went inside. For a moment he actually looked as though he realized she meant it.

Honestly, the invention of the Smartphone has seriously cut into my colleagues' incomes and opportunities. When the entitled children of the moneyed class take their own incriminating photos and put them on social media (as they inevitably do) it doesn't leave the paparrazzi much to do except talk about what they see. I've heard many an interesting story after too many martinis.
Daniela took many selfies and group shots on the yacht. She was sure that the last thing either Arturo or Eladio would think was that she and David were at the same boat party in Cancun. She was going to say she was alone there. But she said she wanted a tastier photo of them together. She even took David's cell phone to take a photo of them kissing. She had plans for that photo, that much was certain.

Doña Gisela visited Clara at the office and they talked about Francisco. Franco abruptly called her into his office. When she tried to introduce him to Doña Gisela, he told her she should be in her uniform and working. She excused herself to correct this and Doña Gisela told Franco she needed to see Señor Gómez Luna. His reply was predictable.
Senor Gomez Luna does not make appointments with people like you. Besides which he's coming in late.”
A secretary called him by name to get his attention to something requiring his signature. Doña Gisela stopped, her attention captured.
Your name is Franco?” she asked.
Yes, my name is Franco and I'm very busy. Don't waste any more of my time. You can wait outside or whatever.” He walked toward her with a gesture and language that demanded she leave as quickly as possible. Had he cracked a whip he could not have been more dismissive. Doña Gisela backed off and said nothing but she stared at him all the way out.

Regina packed the bridal gown into its original box to return it.
You will look beautiful in that dress.” Regina put the lid on the box. “No, Regina. Don't return the bridal gown.”
I'm not marrying him, Mother. He deceived me. I can't trust him. There will not be a wedding. Return the invitations and that's it.”
Poor Joshua. You don't know how this will hurt him.”
I swear it hurt me much worse to catch him kissing my sister.”
Sit down, my love,” Nina said as she sat on the other side of the bed. “The two of you had such a beautiful engagement it's worthwhile to think --”
Mother, I don't have to think about anything. I've decided I'm not going to marry him. If you want to help me because I'm your daughter, please cancel everything.”
She picked up the box and left her bedroom. Nina immediately pulled out her cell phone.
Joshua? It's urgent that we see each other.”
She had to have decided to change first. How she expected to maintain authority in a floral dress with a curtain tassel necklace is a mystery I'm still solving.

In the study Miguel showed Consuelo videos he found of her modeling days. The discs had been in corporate files kept by Arturo. He was planning to select the best ones to put on a single disc for her.
I want to remind you how beautiful you are. And that nobody has the right to treat you badly.”
Thanks.” She was clearly grateful.

Doña Gisela got home and opened an envelope that came in the morning mail. She almost cried. Maribel came in and asked for a stronger headache remedy. The pills she had been taking had been ineffective. When she saw that Doña Gisela was affected by the letter she asked about it. The reply was “It's from my daughter. You don't know how happy I am to hear from her.” Maribel thanked Doña Gisela and left. Alone, Doña Gisela read a little more and then became anxious.

Gabriela, who adored her aunt, was happy that her uncle was changing his ways. Julia told her that the best part was that he was going to reconcile with David. That made her very happy. A secretary entered to tell Julia that there was a gentleman waiting to present a donation. He had called the other day on the phone. Gabriela went out to the reception area. Augustin was waiting. She introduced herself and said that her aunt was unavailable at the moment.
You are the daughter of Amanda Vallardo, Julia's sister?”
Yes. I help my aunt with the foundation. I hope this isn't a problem that I'm accepting the donation. Should I fetch her?”
No; no problem.” He smiled as he handed her an envelope and a check.
Thank you. This will help many children.”
If you need anything else, please don't hesitate to call.” He gave her his business card. “Gabriela.”
Thank you.”
They shared smiles and a glance that would have caused Edith Wharton to have a stroke.

Julia was pacing when she returned a minute later.
What did he say?”
Nothing. He handed me a check.” She gave her the envelope. “He's very nice and very handsome, Aunt. He has beautiful grey streaks in his hair and his eyes --”
Arturo doesn't have grey hair.”
His name isn't Arturo. His name was Augustin Ornelas.”
Ah, Augustin.”
Julia took a note out of the envelope. It was handwritten and read:

I'm sorry I wasn't there in person, but Augustin was concerned that it would cause problems. I need to talk to you.

Aunt, who is this man?”
Augustin is one of Arturo Montenegro's best friends. He's also his company lawyer.”
Aunt, I don't know much about this, but I think it's better that my uncle not find out.”
Gabriela, I was thinking the same thing. Promise that no one will know. Not Franco, not anyone.”
Don't worry, Aunt. I won't say anything to anyone.”

Miguel found Regina lost in thought in the study. She said she had been so shocked at Joshua's confession that she couldn't concentrate on anything. She couldn't believe he expected her to forgive what he did after he had lied about it. Miguel said he didn't think she should marry him. She was determined to bury herself in work to help forget about it. Before they could go into more details Consuelo arrived and knocked to get their attention. She thanked Miguel and said she chose the items from the discs she wanted. He was happy to help. Regina invited Consuelo to accompany her while she returned the wedding dress and she would tell her everything.

Nina met Joshua in a restaurant so that nobody at home would hear their conversation. I hope someone from the office was there to capture a photo of that incredibly stupid dress and necklace.
Regina is the love of my life,” Joshua said. “I'm desperate because she doesn't want to get back together with me.”
Then you have to keep on fighting.”
I understand.”
I will help you. It won't be that easy but we still have a few days to convince her to marry you.”
It's what I want most of all.”
But it goes without saying that you must respect my daughter. I don't want any repeats of what you did with my daughter, Daniela. Do you understand me?”
Of course. Therefore, you--”
Joshua, please. I wasn't born yesterday. I recognize Daniela, but the worst was that you fell into her game. Listen carefully. If you misbehave again, you will find yourself in a situation you won't like.”
He looked like the scared child he really was. It was likely that his parents never taught him that actions have consequences.

Daniela and David were still lying on the sun deck of the boat.
Does it still hurt?”
Less, but yes.”
Well, if you ask me I think you're perfect,” she said.
Well, never as much as you,” he said.
Really, do I please you?”
His answer began with a kiss. “Do you really doubt that?”
How do you say it; you're a bit snobbish.”
Snobbish?”
Yes.”
I don't know how you got to that. Is that good or bad?”
Usually bad, but in all respects, you please me. A lot.”
You also please me. You enchant me.”
She climbed onto him during the kiss. The boat's pilot had much to talk about later.

Monserat was having lunch with a friend when Consuelo entered the restaurant. They recognized each other on sight. Neither was very pleased. Consuelo approached her at her table.
Good to see you,” she said with no note of pleasure. “We need to have a serious talk.”
About?”
About something you have that's mine.”
Monserrat looked at her with daggers in her eyes. Her lips looked like the the swollen petals of a Venus Fly Trap.
What an expression! It's some of my modeling videos I gave to you a while ago! Remember?”
Yes, I've got them.” She turned away so Consuelo wouldn't see an expression of relief. “I'll have to look for them.”
Good. Sure they did you some good, since you took my place.”
Why do you want them? I thought you had retired.”
Well, I've been thinking about returning. I'm putting a new book together and thought we'd have a conversation about what's up now.”
Of course! As soon as you like. Also, I know a few firms who are looking for models now. Give me your cell number and I'll call.”
Give me yours, too. We'll set something up.”
They entered each other's numbers into their cell phones and tested them.
That's you, Meme?”
Yes. Perfect.”
Great. I have to go because I'm here with my sister-in-law, but it was great seeing you again. Let's get together like old times.”
Of course. I'll call you.”
See you later.”
She left. Monserrat rolled her eyes. Her lunch companion was aghast.
Wasn't that Erick's wife?”
Yes, for a while. I not only took her job, I took her husband.”
They clinked glasses and lunch went on as usual.

Eladio and Franco were in his study late that night. Eladio truly believed he could trust Franco because he confided that his first steps were successful.
But David could ruin it all.”
How?”
I have to go to Step 2. I have to maintain this in front of him so he will believe it.”
Of course.”
I can't risk losing what ground I've gained with Julia.”
I'm pleased for you. Actually for both of you.”
Eladio stretched back in his office chair. “It's late. Tell everyone to go home.”
Alright. Good night.”
Franco got up and left the study. Eladio sprayed his mouth and picked up his tablet.

Arturo was also working late, but at his corporate office. He had been waiting to talk to Augustin all day about his morning visit to the foundation. Arturo explained that he had met with Julia's niece and in a tone of voice that said he found her attractive. He was very uncomfortable having to do this. That Julia had been reluctant to see him said she didn't want to see Arturo. Arturo was shocked.
I sent you there to see Julia in person.”
What did you think? She suspected it was you. It was bad enough I had to give your information but don't get your hopes up. I doubt she will call you.”
Why? Augustin, remember that she was my great love. If she remembers even a small part of our lives she'd want to communicate with me, wouldn't she?”
Remember that she was very reticent with you. You were the guilty party in the separation.”
I know, I know! I want to clear that up. That's why I wanted to look for her when Susanna died.”
I understand. You want to clean up Julia's image of you, but what worries me is that she'll think you have another motive. Why do you insist on seeing her? If she wanted to see you she'd communicate with you. If she hasn't she wants to keep her distance. After all, it's been more than 25 years.”
You're right. I am desperate.”
You just saw her after all these years. It's normal to remember her well. What I'd like now is to see her niece, Gabriela.”
Gabriela? That girl lives with Julia and with Eladio Gomez Luna. Do you think that you, my best friend, will be allowed to see her?”

Eladio put the tablet on his desk and Doña Gisela entered his office.
Did nobody tell you to knock first?” He took out his checkbook.
No. This time don't give me any more for this. I saw my grandson today. He's a man now. Never did I imagine he'd be working here.”
That doesn't convince me. Every month you've accepted your check.”
Things have changed.” She pulled the letter out of her poclet. “My daughter wrote to me.” She put the letter on the desk in front of him. “Caridad is about to be released from prison. Of course she would want her son back.”
Sh! Sh!” He got up and closed the door.
How can you assume that? Eh?” He raised his voice but just fell short of pounding the desk.
It's logical, isn't it? She's his mother. She doesn't know that I handed him over to you when he was three years old. For that I need your help.”
Eladio laughed. “You want more money out of me.”
Well, yes. I do need some. You can pull that out of the clouds.”
Well, you're mistaken. If you're looking to threaten me, forget it. If you try you'll get nothing. So just be satisfied with your regular monthly check.” He crumpled the letter and threw it at her.”
Do you know what happened?” She straightened out the letter. “She'll be looking for him when she's out of prison. What do we do?”
No. We can't do anything. She's in prison because she killed her husband.”
You know very well what happened and why she will look for my grandson.”
You traded him for money,” he said with a smirk. “You weren't able to take care of him. Right? Nor would you maintain him as you did your daughter.”
I made mistakes. But if you don't help I don't know what to say to her.”
Eladio rubbed his hands together like a villain in an old movie.
How is it she doesn't suspect that Franco doesn't live with you?”
Over the years I sent the photos you gave me to her in prison.”
I stopped that a while ago.”
I wrote when he reached the age of eighteen. At that time I told her he found work far away. I said he was a fisherman and he'd call me once in a while.”
It was difficult to tell whether Eladio was disgusted or amused.
I can't imagine you found it difficult to lie.”
I didn't want her to suffer. But when she gets out she will want to see him.”
When will she get out?”
Well, in the letter she says it will be soon.” She opened it up and showed it to him.
Hm, it says she hopes to get time shaved off for good behavior.”
Yes.”
That's a process that takes time. Besides, there's no guarantee.”
So it's not a done deal?”
No.” He looked at her as though he were talking to an idiot child. “And for her good I hope she gets out of the prison because at the moment you stopped any help on my part.”
No.”
No, don't say that. Do you realize I live on the money you've been giving me? I'm old and can't work anymore.”
Yes. But when your daughter went to jail you should have been more careful with the money I gave you. Here and now you are responsible for those decisions.”
Doña Gisela put the letter back in its envelope. “But if Franco learned the truth --”
Do you want to tell him that his mother is a murderer?”
No.”

Caridad was pacing in her cell. For a woman who had spent the previous twenty years in prison she didn't look that bad. Her complexion was clear and she was at a good weight.
I was supposed to get out of here in 15 days. I've been here for twenty years.”
Take advantage of the time,” said the social worker. “You've studied and prepared for the day you'd be free.”
Because I want to see my son.”
Does he know the truth?”
No. I've told my mother never to tell him anything. I haven't seen him in all this time. That's why I want to get out of here. Because I want to see him, embrace him. Hear him call me Mother.”

David and Daniela sat in an expensive and trendy restaurant. David tried not to betray his shock at the menu prices. Daniela wanted to start with a bottle of champagne. David caved and she grinned.

If necessary I will see my grandson and tell him how things are.”
Eladio laughed and applauded in that manner of damning with faint praise.
I've done my job well. Ay, Gisela, you don't understand the heart of the one who carries your blood. Only money is important to you.” He took out his checkbook. “But I'm going to tell you something. Don't try to think you're smarter than me. First of all I doubt Caridad would want her son to know she was in a US prison for murder. I'll make you an offer. Let's do that.”
Franco entered the office.
Come on in, Franco. Come over here.” He waited until Franco was within reach and touched his shoulder. “I have something very important to tell you. Have a seat, please.”
Franco sat in the chair opposite Eladio. Gisela was behind him. She wrung her hands and looked as though she were facing the guillotine in 1789. Eladio smiled through it all.
What are you doing here, Madam?” Franco asked. “I told you not to bother --”
Franco, Franco, she's here to tell you something --”
No, no. Forget it.” She started for the door.
No, no, don't go. Tell him. Do it. It's good that the whole world will know how he was abandoned.”
Franco stared at him. “I don't get it, Godfather,” he said.
Eladio sprayed his mouth and got up. “She was the wife of a chauffeur who worked for the company. He died. He was very loyal so that's the reason we're supporting her. And we were talking about that. Right.”
Yes.” She knew she was in a bad situation and the only thing she wanted was to leave. “Thanks very much. Excuse me.” She left.
Tell me what to do,” Eladio said to Franco. “This is how I help others. I do it for their own good.” He noticed a curious expression on Franco's face. “Well, let's wrap up. It's late, so let's go.”
Franco said nothing, but looked as though he had questions that Eladio would not want to answer.

There's nothing like trial by media. It keeps the public talking, raises newspaper sales, internet traffic, and television ratings. Erick was dining with a colleague of mine. He was determined to drag Eladio Gomez Luna through the mud. He got assurance that his name would not be involved in this and told him about the land deal with Mariano Santos. Santos had gone back on his word to Arturo because Eladio offered more money. The story would ruin Santos and contribute to Eladio's downfall. They toasted over this.

At home, Gabriela asked Julia about Arturo. She promised not to tell anyone anything. Julia explained that she and Arturo had been engaged to be married. It was a couple of weeks before the wedding date when he admitted to an infidelity that resulted in the other woman becoming pregnant. She broke the engagement and felt irreparably betrayed. She married Eladio not long thereafter in the hope that she could forget Arturo. No one had ever told her that marrying on the rebound is never a good decision. Gabriela knew that Julia had never loved Eladio.
Eladio had presented himself well to Julia at the time. He was attractive, hard-working, and respectful of her family. She was sure she was doing the right thing and that in time she would love him. The problem was that he never believed that David was his son. That lack of trust meant that Julia could not love him. She swore that David was Eladio's son.
Julia explained that Eladio had always refused to take a DNA test that would prove David's paternity. Now she was hoping that he had calmed down and accepted her word that David was his child. She couldn't stand to see him become hostile and aggressive again. Gabriela told her to remain calm and do what she had to do.

At the Montenegros' Miguel worked with Consuelo on her videos. She invited Regina to check them out. Petra came in with a giant teddy bear sent, of course, by Joshua. Regina told her to return it. She was not going to accept any gifts from him. He thought her forgiveness had a price.
Arturo came in. He noticed the teddy bear and figured out its origin. Also that Joshua was not going to give up. Regina said she was not going to forgive him and would not marry him. She asked her father for his support and got it. She was also going to stay rather than run away from problems. Arturo kissed his daughter. Consuelo suggested to Regina that they dispose of the teddy bear and they left, dragging it between them. Arturo then needed to talk to Miguel.
I couldn't sleep last night because of what you said. It hurts badly that you think I don't love you. You need to know that I neglected you for my work.”
Of course.”
Our relationship is going to change. I'll work at it so our relationship will improve.”
Thanks, Dad. Thanks for talking to me about it. I'm sure things will get better now.”
Me, too, son.” They embraced. However, their timing could not have been worse because Nina came in with her usual attitude.
A little while ago Miguel was a fool.”
This is the last time you will talk to Miguel like that. From this point on you will respect him.”
What?” Her tone could not have been more supercilious.
I will not have you treat him that way one more time.” He turned to Miguel. “Good night, son.” He kissed him on the cheek.
Good night, Dad.”
Arturo left the room but not without giving Nina a look that said he would not be defied in this.
Don't you worry, Nina,” Miguel said. “I'm no saint or angel. My dad hugged me simply for being born.”
What is happening in this house?” she asked through clenched teeth. She turned and followed Arturo.

Eladio was visiting Monserrat but his mind wasn't on her attempts at seduction. He was on his cell phone giving instructions about clearing a low-rent neighborhood to build his luxury hotel. He didn't care what it cost or who had to be paid off. When he finished the call he removed her hand from near its destination and told her “The only reason I'm here is to tell you that things between me and my wife are better than ever. I don't want to lose what I've gained.” He was looking to end their relationship. She looked like she couldn't believe him. Even a little panicked.
Monserrat was not about to accept this. She lunged at Eladio and began kissing him but he shoved her back. He said “You know the rules and I've never lied to you.” He shook her off and brushed off his $1500 jacket. “Think about what you want to do with your life.” He left without another word. She had a hissy fit and threw her drink at the door. “You'll see, Eladio. You'll see!”

Consuelo asked Erick how things had gone at work. He said “Well,” almost automatically. However his attention was peaked when she mentioned meeting with Monserrat about going back to work. He was quite uneasy about this and tried to avoid her by entering his walk-in closet. She followed him, asking what he thought about this. He was within her sight when his cell rang. He answered and walked out of her live of vision.

Clara was at Fabricio's apartment talking to Maribel, who still complained of severe headaches. Clara said she should just ask for stronger medication. It didn't seem to occur to either of them that this could be something extremely serious. Doña Gisela came back to check on them as she had had a very bad day. She left as Clara poured water for Maribel to take her pills.

Eladio went home and saw Gabriela sitting in the living room. He asked her to help him buy gifts for Julia. She knew her aunt well and therefore would know her taste. It never crossed his mind that he should know that after almost twenty-five years of marriage. She said that the best thing would be memories of experiences. Places and other such things. He nodded as though he were listening, but the truth was he really knew nothing and didn't want to admit it.

Nina always saw Miguel as a competitor for Arturo's attention. In fact, everyone else was competition for Arturo's attention and love. She always saw that in finite terms, possibly because her own was so finite and conditional.
So now you don't have time for me but you talk to Miguel and embrace him!”
He's my son. There's nothing wrong with that.”
I don't understand how you're changing. You never made this excuse before.”
I've made a mistake. I owe him a great deal of attention.”
At least I hope you don't want him to go to the office with you.”
You don't know how strange that sounds.”
I'm sorry. But don't take time away from me.”
Nina, we're not on our honeymoon. Don't pretend that I can be with you all the time.”
Well, not all but like before. Why are you turning Miguel, your son, against me?”
Never. How did that occur to you?” He removed his cuff links and embraced her. “Please, don't annoy him. Don't annoy him because I want you to get along. He's my son and I love him and I love him as I love all of ours.”
That's not true, Arturo. You love him less because you blame him for the death of his mother.”
She walked into her closet and he stared at her. He was angry, but unlike Eladio, didn't give it free reign.


The following morning Julia woke up and put her engagement ring back on. The maids must have convinced themselves that she removed it at night to protect the silk sheets. On this morning she got the shock of her life as Eladio brought her breakfast in bed. A single red rose, like the one from the other day, lay in the middle of the tray. He said he wanted her to come with him that day. She couldn't believe this, saying it was as though he were another person. He put the napkin on her lap and kissed her hand. Poor Julia.

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Comments:
UA thanks so much for your recap and last week's as well. I enjoyed your comment about selfies and entitled children made me chuckle. I've missed you and the rest of the Caray, Caray group. With this tn, I feel I'm back with old friends: Susanna, Fernando, and Jorge as well as this group.

Thus far I'm enjoy this tn even though the sisters fighting over boys clique is going to be very icky in this one. Well we now know the reason why Dona G has been looking frighten and that Franco's world is about to blow up. That should be something.

I also want to thank the other recappers as I have been catching up. Thanks Cynderella, Aunty Ann, Novela Maven, and Mauricio for your great recaps.
 

Great recap.

Joshua continues to annoy, and refuses to go away. "He looked like the scared child he really was. It was likely that his parents never taught him that actions have consequences." Yup exactly what he is. I really hope he gets on Nina's bad side and she rips him apart, that would be highly entertaining.

Unfortunately, the purple lipstick made its most unwelcome return. But her reaction when Arturo told her to lay off Miguel was priceless.

Franco is a dismissive ass. Water is wet. I look forward to seeing how things with Doña Gisela turn his world upside down. He thinks himself above everyone and the reveal of his origins will be glorious.

I continue to like Gabriela. She's supportive of her aunt and cousin and overall seems levelheaded despite being involved with Franco. Frankly I like her better than Regina as the younger protagonist, at least so far. Oh and her interactions with Augustin were interesting.

Monserat and Consuelo are old model frenemies. Well. I predict at least two catfights in the not too distant future.

Gisela looks great for someone who's been in jail for 20 years.

I wonder how Consuelo and Regina disposed of the giant teddy bear, did they simply throw it in the dumpster, or did they do something more dramatic like set it on fire? On the other hand, would it have been so bad to let Petra have it? I mean anyone who has to work for Nina daily deserves good things like giant teddy bears.

Overall, an entertaining episode.

 

I personally think that the ultimate irony would be if they donated it to the foundation Julia runs. That would be an interesting connexion that would drive Julia and Arturo back together.

Marco Mendez' hair bothers me. I can see him being prematurely gray (which I think he really is) but it needs to be evened out. The other hair that bothers me is on Monserrat. I always see that stupid hairstyle in TNs on women with cheekbones that protrude too far. And what a skank she is.

However, I'd love to see her make Eladio pay rather than laugh about stealing Conssuelo's life.
 

Karen! It's so good to see you. It's been too long.

Urban- Stellar recap and so wonderfully detailed. Thank you.

Well, now we know a bit more about Franco's origins. He's not going to like it one bit. My two guesses about this situation: 1) Eladio is Franco's father; 2) Eladio killed Caridad's husband and framed her for it.

I think some of the shine is wearing off as David sees how frivolous Dani is. Of course, that won't stop him from enjoying her company is other ways.

Nice of Art to stand up for Miguel, but it's over 20 years too late. He needs to do way more. Perhaps they should take a father-son trip.

Gabriela and Agustin is a May-December romance I can get behind. Hubba hubba! :)
 

I wonder what happened to Julia's sister, and just how well Agustin knew her? Was she an impossible love, and now he sees an opportunity with her daughter?
 

Urban- Marco has been greying for a long time prematurely. There have been tns where they dyed his hair so that he could look more his real age. But I love his natural grey hair.
 

I've been guessing that Julia's sister died, but it's too early and I guess we'll find out soon now that her name has been mentioned.

One can only imagine how badly Humberto treated her, too. Especially if there were no sons.

You took that hypothesis about Franco right out of my head, Vivi. That's exactly what I was thinking last night.

Erick surprised me because I thought he was going to go over to Eladio's company. However, what he seems to be planning will escalate the bad blood between him and Arturo and that won't be good.
 

Thank you for the wonderful recap, Urban! Yes, "Poor Julia."

Now that a cup of plot thickener has been added to the mix, things are getting interesting. While the obvious thing would be that Franco is Eladio's son, it would be much more interesting if he were his nephew and Eladio were Gisela's son:)

I guess modeling isn't paying too well for Montserrat or she wouldn't be so dependent on Eladio.

I'm looking forward to seeing it all unroll.

Hi Karen! Welcome back to Spanish class!
 

Thanks, Urban. Loving the DD style and appreciate all the detail.

Liked seeing Consuelo being more strident, as she was with Monteserrat. Worried about that CD though.

So why would Eladio take in Franco? If Franco is Eladio's secret son, it doesn't show because Eladio doesn't have real affection for him. He seems to favor Franco only to get back at David. He took delight in letting Doña Gisela know that Franco cares only about money and I didn't see pride, but contempt, in that fact. Eladio is one tricky hombre.

Yep, Regina should've given that teddy to Petra. You could see in Petra's eyes how much she wanted it, maybe for her grandkids. Hey, is that the same huge teddy that was in Yo No Creo en Los Hombres?

Not thrilled with David. He's young and unattached, so I get him bedding Daniela. But just like Joshua, he's falling into Daniela's game. No way is she taking those pictures just for the two of them. And Erick has no new contract and therefore no income of his own, so why pretend he can afford the fancy restaurant. Plus since he knows she's the daughter of his crazy father's hated rival, has he no thought about how his thing with Daniela could bounce back on his mom? Nope, not on Team David. Where's his BFF Francisco? Me gusta.

Love Augustin's (Marco's) premature gray, but I wish they'd trim it. Even a buzz cut.

Welcome back, Karen!
 

One more thing. Eladio regularly sprays something in his mouth. Could it be some kind of medicine, like for asthma?
 

I hate buzz cuts. The latest thing they did to Jose Ron's hair in MIVAC is just horrible. I'd like to see MM's hair be a straight steel grey with silver at the temples. That's how a lawyer or captain of industry should look.

Franco probably is Eladio's secret son. He has turned him into a mirror-image of himself in probably most ways. Sociopaths do not have the capacity to love, which is why you don't see him displaying love to Franco for all that he is like him. Eladio is a master manipulator who uses other people's ability to love against them, as he does with Julia and David. He has no regard for Monserrat's sexual needs, only his own and that takes a back seat to business and his public image.

Sociopaths can't be fixed, either. Their public behavior can change if it suits them, but they do not feel love, empathy, compassion, or any of the "weaker" emotions.
 

Incredible UA, just incredible

"She might not have recognized the expression of fear in her own eyes"

"How she expected to maintain authority in a floral dress with a curtain tassel necklace is a mystery I'm still solving"

"Her lips looked like the the swollen petals of a Venus Fly Trap"

Damn Marco is hot, whew.
 

UA, your detail and dialog translations were superb.

"How she expected to maintain authority in a floral dress with a curtain tassel necklace is a mystery I'm still solving" was my favorite line of many.

Eladio'a core of steel shows no softness or hint of any gentleness. His love for Julia is obsession and desire to possess. He has no conception of love.

I'm disappointed in the fact that Arturo has not given Miguel the love and attention he deserves and further, that he has let Nina treat him so cruelly. Arturo is certainly a flawed galan, he has quite a bit to atone for.

Sadly, Julia seems ready to believe that things have really changed. I'm sure her world will be shattered again really quickly.

Karen, I've been posting, asking where you've been. So happy you are back!

I've been thinking a lot of Madelaine today, missing her and wanting to thank her and all of the other men and women who have served and made sacrifices for us on this Veterans Day.

Diana
 

Yes, Happy Veterans Day to all the veterans on the blog and to family members who are veterans.

Urban- I'm sure MM's hair will be 100% grey soon enough. He's one of my favorite telenovios (since La Verdad Oculta), but we don't see him enough.

As for David and Dani-- I don't see how he would think his dalliance with Dani would have any repercussions for his mother. He has no idea that the rivalry and hate between his father and Eladio has anything to do with Julia. Now, just the mere fact that their fathers hate each other so much, should have given them both pause. But they are both free and single and both adults, so I don't see anything wrong with what they are doing. They just have to be prepared for the consequences when their fathers find out.
 

Typo: Between his father and Arturo.
 

I've finally caught up this weekend and can comment. A big thanks to all of the recappers!!

If I was Julia, Eladio's sudden transformation would have me more scared than not. I would think he is laying the ground work for something. But I guess when you have been abused as long as she has she is holding on to any little thread with all her might.

The actor playing Franco is hot but can't act his way out of a bowl of cereal. Hope he improves.

I think Erick's hair looks really weird and I just stare at it, trying to figure it out. Plus, he looks older than Miguel to me which shouldn't be.

Agree that Arturo is a lot late with the father act towards Miguel. So far I'm finding Arturo pretty milquetoast and I love JS.

David is single and having fun so I see no problems and it may have an added benefit; if Eladio and Julia see that David is hooking up with Arturo's daughter, and Julia doesn't freak out, doesn't that prove David is his son? Otherwise David would be hooking up with his half-sister.
 

Julia probably would've grown to care a lot, if not love, Eladio had he only been nice & patient with her.

Marco Mendez is hot. I want to run my fingers through his gray hair.

Erik is the weakest link.

Nina knows full well Dani & Josh hooked up. Why is she so determined to marry Regina off to him?
 

thanks so much, UA.

As to Marco's salt and pepper hair, people who are prematurely gray turn completely gray\white at different speeds. I think that he would look better with shorter hair. When I met Hub, he was sixteen and had a small streak of white in his black hair. The salt gradually increased in the pepper, and now his hair is white. When I met his mother she was completely white even though she was only 40. Her father and sister also had white hair. On the other hand, my father still had very little gray hair even at 80. Redheads , like my mother and sister ,usually do not turn gray .

I am confused about the relationship between Eladio and Julia. Have they had some good times in their marriage or has it always been bad? No sex except the rape ? I guess her father pushed her into the marriage for the money.
 

Hi Urban and thanks for the recap today.
The lines that you wrote and others have commented on are pretty much my choices also. I guess that most of us are in agreement. The line that really did jump out at me was---She might not have recognized the expression of fear in her own eyes.

Yes, there was fear in Julia's eyes. After twenty years of abuse why wouldn't there be? Myself, I wouldn't trust Eladio any farther than I could see him and even then, I still wouldn't trust him.

I agree with Diana's comment at 11:19AM when she wrote--his love for Julia is obsession and desire to possess. Can Eladio love? Maybe in a different time and a different place but right now when it comes to Julia, he only wants to own and control. Yes, he's totally obsessed and that isn't love or even remotely close to it

I'm still thinking that Regina might cave when the pressure builds but I hope that I'm wrong.

I don't believe that Daniela took that picture or pictures just because she was having fun and wanted a sweet memory of the event. Daniela is slimy and has an evil plan of some kind that she will put into action when she thinks that the time is right. Daniela is another one that you don't want to trust farther than you can see her.

Looks like Montserrat and Consuelo will be mixing it up soon.

must see tv
the gringo
 

Does anyone think that Agustin is a little old for Gabriela?

the gringo
 

Gringo- Yes. But he's hot.
 

Hmmmm..So Dona Gisela 's daughter was having an affair with Eladio. She had his baby, killed her husband, and went to jail. Then , Dona Gisela gave little Franco to Eladio to raise, and Eladio has been paying her to keep the secret. Is that right ?

What part of "NO" doesn't Nina understand?..so weird.
 

I hope that was the hots talking and not the call of the blood. Auggie asked about Gabriela's mother. Could he be her father? Yikes...no lets go with the MayDecember romance..less icky.
 

Only 11 years difference between them, 39 to 28.
 

Yeah he may have grey hair but he's not that old.
 

Yes. There isn't much of an age difference between the actors (we've established this yesterday), but I think in this story, he is supposed to be old enough to be her father.
 

Marco is playing older than his age and Fabiola is playing younger than her age.
 

Fabiola is probably being typecast as the "innocent" girl who ends up with older men. This is too soon after YNCELH, at least on our screens.

If Arturo can't protect Regina from Nina about the marriage and she caves, I am going to guess that Nina's motives are:

-- Staging "La Boda del Ano" and having important guests --> photo shoot for Vanidades; we can already figure that one out from the opening episode
-- Punishing Regina for not being her clone

We are hitting a point where Nina will realize that she can no longer lead Arturo around by his hormones. She will get even nastier the next time he says "No" to her for anything.
 

So, Nina thinks that Arturo blamed Miquel for his mother's death.Were we told that she died giving birth to him?
 

Susanlynn- Yes. There was some talk between Art and Agusto about why or why didn't Art go to Julia after his first wife died in childbirth. In any case, now we know.

There are two things about these two main couples that ring false to me.

1) That Julia would still fall for Eladio's tricks and manipulations after 20+ years of abuse.
2) That Arturo would still be falling for Nina's tricks and sexual manipulations after 20+ years.
 

Agree, Augustin is a hottie. Poor Franco, history is repeating itself.

Thanks Urban, late to the game. Calls non-stop starting at 8:00 a.m. I need to head out on that yacht myself. Great recap and a bit disappointed the writers are really playing up D & D before he can get back to Gina, but I don't blame him for being out and about and having fun. Might as well enjoy since the **** will hit the fan soon enough.

daisynjay
 

Haven't finished the recap yet, nor any of the comments but it's getting late.

Nina has been too attentive to Joshua. Methinks *she* doesn't want to lose him and that's a big reason why she's been working so hard to get Regina to go through with the marriage--social blowback aside. Sooner or later, she was going to get him into her bed.
 

UA--Hope it's not too late to thank you for the recap. You are so amazing with dialog and details--yes, I noticed the tapestry tassel necklace and hoped someone would comment on it. Is this a trend setter? Remember what we did to El Tal's Camila and her feathers!

FC and the mouth spray. This will probably be his signature element for this show. I can't remember any of the others, but someone said long ago (maybe Himself) he always picks some little thing he does over and over in each show.
 

It certainly would not surprise me if Nina would eventually trick this situation to get Joshua into her own bed. Especially if Regina caves and marries this immature jerk. She would do it just to show that she is more woman than her daughter.

Her suegra lecture was amusing because I'm sure she is looking to control him if the marriage happens. When she said "I wasn't born yesterday" I'm sure she meant that she fully expected him to eventually cheat on Regina. She might even encourage it if he were mature enough to be discreet and choose someone other than Daniela, who is still immature and completely indiscreet. She would definitely be laughing at Regina behind her back and use this as a weapon against her at some future date.

Nina is a classic narcissist. She can't handle not being the center of attention. She can't cede any of Arturo's attention to their children. She's an immature brat and he seems to finally be realizing this.

I'm sure he never told her about Julia and when she finds out she will be on the warpath.
 

Anita...In Amor Real , Manuel (FC) was always rubbing his cheek, and his little son did the same thing. I can't remember his move in Alborada and Pasion.
 

marco and Niecie--The Giant Teddy Bear went back to YoNoCreo set, where he was originally gifted to Doris. I think he was in Quiero Amarte, too. No doubt he gets around.

Ahoy, there, Susanlynn and a good prepositional evening to you. Thanks for reminding me of the cheek rub. I think I'll have to dust off my DVD of AR and watch it again. (I'm so disappointed they edited out his love scene with Matilde while they were in the convent--at least we got the bathtub scene.)
 

Urban,
Thanks a million for the great recap. All the awesome lines have been mentioned, but I think the whole recap was excellent. Thanks for all the dialogue and detail too.

I need to take this time to personally thank NovelaMaven, Mauricio and Cynderella for their recaps as well I want to apologize to the team for not being involved for the past few days. I have had tons of work and have been playing catch up until today. Please know that I have thouroughly enjoyed each of your recaps and all the hard work you put into them.

I was beginning to really be annoyed by Eladio. At least now that he's pretending to be nice we can get a break from the 24-7 crazy guy overkill we had been getting. I am in the group that thinks FC was overdoing it on the pissed off front. I hope it gets better.

I was not crazy about the David-Daniela hook up, but it's because I know the problems it will cause in the future. But they aren't doing anything wrong. They are both single and free to do what they want. One thing I noticed though was the first time they talked, David made sure to confirm with Dani that Regina was getting married. It made me wonder if he would have hooked up with Dani had she told him that Regina had called off the wedding.

Thanks Urban!
Y gracias tambien a NovelaMaven, Mauricio y Cynderella!

Hasta Pronto
 

I also moved some scenes around in this one because it becomes more literary. I hope that pleases my readers. When I first began watching novelas the scenes were longer and it annoys me that perfectly legitimate scenes are being broken into fragments as short as 15 seconds to satisfy short attention spans. It's almost as bad as how action scenes in movies are edited.
 

Ahoy, Anita. I wish that I had the time to rewatch Amor Real which had the hottest love scenes and Alborada which is my favorite tn. However, life is busy , and whenever I have a few free moments , I am reading the Caray recaps or reading the Outlander book series (I am on book # eight). I am happy that we are watching the same tn.

I miss Sara. I guess that she is not watching this one. Que lastima.
 

Susanlynn--
Thanks to you, I got drawn into the Claire/Jamie saga as well. I'm on book #4, then reread #1. Since I don't get Starz, I went with Netflix, then I bought all of Season One. Damn but I'm addicted.
 

Anita...It is a verra, verra good story about a love that lasts a lifetime...and I have a feeling beyond a lifetime if I get my wish. Jamie is verra, verra sexy. Diana Gabaldon is an amazing storyteller. I am current!ly listening to the podcasts that analyze each episode by Ron Moore on YouTube. Check it out.I bought the first season, too. It will be interesting to see how they adapt Dragonfly in Amber. I can't wait until the show returns in the spring .
 

Urban - Thank you for a fantastic and detailed recap of last nights events.

Don't have much to add just that I am looking forward to watching what happens tonight. :)
 

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