Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Pasión y Poder #38 Martes 12/29/15
Chapter 38: Family Affairs
The more
I observe these two families and their interactions the more I wish I
could meet Suetonius. Maybe I can't because I'm his latter-day reincarnation: I feel like I'm in a 21st-Century Roman Empire. Two
titans of modern industry with sons betraying them, both with dysfunctional
families and assorted wannabes who want only power and the
inheritances they think they deserve. Nobody's been murdered yet
that I know of, but only because that's a lot harder to get away with
these days. Sejanus didn't have to worry about DNA or fingerprints.
But everything that makes crime more difficult now makes character
assassination much easier, including the willingness of people to
always believe the worst and prove it if they have to. That's
sometimes useful and some people get better at this all the time.
– D.D.
Arturo's
secretary entered his office to announce Franco's arrival. Arturo
looked up for a moment and asked her to show him in. He was just
outside and entered as she left.
“Give me
a moment, Franco; I'll be right with you,” Arturo said without
looking up from his monitor. He clicked on the “record” button
before looking up. “Talk to me.”
“I'm just
here to tell you
“You told
me that you'd tell me what you know for money. Tell me, would you
also sell information about the Gómez Luna businesses?”
Franco
leaned forward. “That's precisely what I've come to offer you.”
“And how
will I be able to tell that the information you will give me about
the Gómez Luna companies will be useful?”
“The same
confidence you have in Augustin? Well, my godfather has that in me.”
“Augustin
is my colleague. Well, I have no doubt you are as ambitious as
Eladio. You only lack his intelligence.”
“Why do
you say that?”
Arturo
stopped the recording process and hit the playback button. Franco's
incriminating words came back as a slap in the face.
“You will
remember that you came to threaten me,” Arturo said. “The
difference now is that I have proof of your offer. I imagine you'd
fall from grace if this fell into Eladio's hands.”
“Are you
–”
“Yes,
imbecile. I'm ahead of you. Here you will forget anything about my
seeing Julia in the hospital or I will let your godfather know that
you are offering me confidential information about his businesses.”
Franco
didn't like being checkmated.
“I know I
can count on your help, son,” said Julia.
“Are you
then thinking about leaving Father?” She hesitated and he knew
why. “Mother, I know that things between you and Father are –”
“No, no,
no. What you're thinking is because of how I feel to see you become
a man.”
“Mother
–”
“You are
good, my love.”
“I've
always followed your good example.”
“Promise
me something. That you will fight. Promise me you will fight for
what is your right. You have the right, David –”
“Why are
you doing this?”
“Because
you have the right to what he has built all these years.”
“No, no,
no, no, no. Mother, I don't think this way. I don't need his money;
I don't want his money. What I want from him is to be with you,
Mother, to take care of you.”
They
embraced. He could tell she was trying not to cry.
“Mama,
what can I tell you?” Erick asked. “I found Consuelo with
another man in the slum where she's living with her friend, Clara.”
“I have
no doubt she's a slut,” said Nina.
“We
argued and I have no wish to take her home with me, Mama.”
“Of
course not.”
“I can't
stand looking at her. Now imagine that a baby she wants is killing
me.”
“Listen
to me, son. It's very important to your father to have a
grandchild.”
“Of
course. Mama, is it Miguel's?”
“No way.
Remember that it's yours because it will be the next heir to this
family's fortune.”
“No. It
would be better, Mama, if this brat isn't born.”
These words
were too shocking even for Nina. She did not reply. Her
determination to believe that Consuelo had been unfaithful wasn't
even about her having been born in a brothel; it wasn't even about
the fuss she made over Miguel or Francisco. It was that she was too
vain to admit that she was only months away from being a grandmother.
In her own mind she would never be old enough for that.
Miguel was
in the study behind a closed door as he spoke to Regina on the phone.
“I almost
told Consuelo I love her, but didn't.”
“But why
not?”
“I
couldn't. She'd never want to see me again.”
“Miguel,
I know you've always been honest with her. This is an opportunity to
open her eyes. To know that there is a man who really loves her and
would give his life for her.”
“No.
That only happens in my dreams.”
“Of
course not. She would be so lucky to be loved by a guy like you,
Miguel.”
“I don't
believe that. Consuelo only hopes that Erick will reciprocate her
love.”
“Why do
you say that?”
“She
still loves him. She still hopes that he will return to get her.”
“Ay,
Miguel. I'm sorry you're going through this.”
“I have
to continue to keep my distance and my silence without hoping for
anything. And you? How's it going with David?”
“With
David it's better than ever. But the family feud? His father
approached me to ask that I break up with him.”
Eladio
arrived home to see David leaving by the same front door.
“Ah, You
came to see me?” he asked. As usual, everything was all about
himself.
“I came
to see Mother. I'll take the opportunity also to tell you you should
be ashamed of what you've done.”
“What are
you talking about?”
“You
taking away the construction contract from Arturo Montenegro.” He
started down the steps.
“No,
you're mistaken.” He grabbed David's arm to stop him. “I didn't
take anything. He made a serious mistake; I took advantage of the
circumstances. That's all.”
“You took
this contract by provoking the circumstances that led to this
opportunity at the very least.”
Eladio
laughed. “And now you're judging me?”
“No. I
didn't think there would any more deceptions, but I was mistaken.”
“You're
not alright with this? Well, you're not to have anything to do with
his children, including your little girlfriend.” He turned his
back to go inside.
“You're
not going to talk to me like that, Father.”
Eladio
laughed in contempt, then ignored him. David followed him but
stopped halfway up the steps to the house. He knew this was useless.
Arturo had
been telling Augustin about the earlier incident. He asked him about
Gabriela.
“Yes,
I've seen Gaby with Franco,” Augustin replied.
“What I
don't want is for you to threaten her.”
“What I
have to tell her is that the godson is just like his godfather.”
“Yes,
it's what he's learned having been raised by Eladio. It's a shame
that a nice girl like Gabriela is in love with a cad like him.”
“What are
you saying?”
“That
this guy is only toying with her.”
“No, that
can't be.
“Finally
Franco confronted my grandfather, Aunt,” said Gabriela. “That
means he loves me.”
“My
father is a very difficult man,” said Julia. “You don't know how
happy I am he did that. It's what I've always –” Eladio entered
and Julia sensibly did not continue.
“Gabriela,”
he said. “Leave us alone, please.”
“Yes,
Uncle,” she said, while giving Julia a significant look. She left
the room. Julia did also, going into the adjoining bedroom.
“But why
are you doing this? Don't look like you're afraid of me.”
“How do
you want me to look at you? What do you want?”
“To tell
you I've brought you a gift.”
“I don't
want anything. Thanks.”
“Are you
sure? It's one that would make you very happy.” He called for
Callao, his bodyguard. The man entered with a standard birdcage
containing four canaries. He handed the cage to Eladio.
“Good
day, Madam,” he said, with a slight bow. He left before Eladio
could order him to. Eladio held the cage so Julia could see it. It
was too small for the dear little creatures. “Here I'm returning
your canaries to you. What do you think?”
Julia
smiled for a second as she looked at the adorable little birds. One
of them left the perch and tried to fly to the top, but stopped
suddenly when he got near the curved ceiling of the cage with the
gold-colored bars.
“These
aren't mine,” she said. “Take them away.”
“Why
don't you want them? They delight you.”
“Because
I know you will kill them when I love them enough. I don't want
these poor birds to be your new victims.”
She crossed
the bedroom and headed toward the bathroom. Eladio called for Callao
and told him to take the birds away.
Consuelo
was scrubbing Clara's kitchen table. She needed the distraction to
avoid thinking about Erick's nasty visit. She should not have left
the side door open, because Nina arrived.
“Consuelo?”
she asked. At least she had the grace not to just enter. Consuelo
drew herself up to full height.
“Madam?”
she asked.
“You and
I have to talk.”
“About
what?”
“This
baby you're expecting.”
“Come
in.”
“No,
thanks. I'm alright here.”
“Of
course,” said Consuelo with some irony. “This is no place for
you.”
“In
effect. But despite that I'm here. I came to take you and my
grandchild home.”
She
extended her hand. Consuelo took it, trying to discern her meaning.
There was nothing in Nina's face for her to read. She was like a
mannequin, with a blank stare and no real life in her.
“Montenegro
made fun of you,” Marianita said.
“I know.
I never imagined that wretch would record me.”
“So now I
know where you spent the night,” she said. “What are you going
to do now?”
“You
don't know how this situation will go. I made the stupid mistake of
being too trusting and now my godfather will hate me if he finds
out.”
“Exactly.
So take advantage that he's just gotten here.”
“You're
right. I'll talk to him.” He took a deep breath and knocked on
Eladio's closed door. He entered before being told to.
“Good
day, Godfather,” he said.
Eladio
stood, his face stone-cold as usual.
“And
then? Who do you think you are after the way you answered me on the
phone?”
Franco
started to speak, but Eladio didn't allow him to continue.
“Nothing.
I'm not interested in your explanations. Shut up. You know what
your yelling and disrespect has earned you? Now you will pick up
your stuff and leave this office. After which you will leave the
house.”
“Godfather
–”
“Shut up.
I'm in no mood for this. I've said my last word. Get out.”
“If you
want to fire me, alright, but the least you owe me is to listen –”
“For the
last time shut up! Get out!” He hit the desk. “What do you
want? For me to throw you out?”
“No,
Godfather. Let me explain –”
Eladio
grabbed his jacket and yelled into his face. “What do you want?
To yell at me? You show me disrespect and think you've won? No!”
He dragged him toward the door and threw him. Franco landed on the
couch at the other side of the door. “Get out!” He then yelled
for Callao, who appeared in less than a second. He ordered him to
escort Franco out.
“And take
your crap out of this office!” he yelled just as they were out the
door.
“Consuelo,
I know we've never had a good relationship. But you're my son's wife
and he adores you.”
“No,
Madam,” Consuelo said, releasing her hand. “I think he doesn't
love me. He cheated on me. He was nasty to me. He insinuated that
this baby isn't his.”
“Be
encouraged. I know he's not behaved well to you. This baby you're
having –”
“What?
Are you going to say again that this baby isn't Erick's?”
“No. No,
Consuelo. I'm sorry. But you have to give me that when I get like
that it's about Erick's jealousy. Maybe you don't believe me, but
it's the truth. Say that this baby is my grandchild. Like Arturo, I
want it to be born with everything it deserves. In a family that can
give it everything it needs. So please pack your things and we'll go
home.”
Consuelo
wasn't sure whether to smile or cry.
“Madam,
I'm grateful you've come. I won't deny what this means to me. But I
need you to understand me. The person who should say these things to
me is Erick. If he doesn't come to me believing that this baby is
his and want to take responsibility – and not just financially –
but with love and respect, I can't return.”
Nina looked
away for a moment. She had not expected this.
Franco
packed his few personal items in a plastic transfile box while Callao
watched. Francisco came down the stairs and paused at the sight. He
asked what was going on but Franco rudely shoved him aside and left
with Callao following him. Clara arrived just in time to see them
leave. Francisco realized that something explosive must have
happened in the corner office.
Augustin
spoke on his cell with Gabriela to arrange a coffee date with her.
When he ended the call he told Arturo.
“I'll
pass on what you asked about Julia and talk to her about Franco.”
“What are
you going to tell her? That he tried to blackmail me? She won't
believe you. And if she tells him that he'll tell Eladio that I
visited Julia in the hospital. Just be careful what you do.”
“Yes,
you're right. But at the least I'll tell her to be careful around
Franco.”
“What's
your interest?”
“Arturo,
I can't avoid it. She's very pretty. And when I first saw her I
felt something. Well, see you later.”
He got up
to leave only to find Erick and Daniela just outside the door. He
greeted them before leaving. They walked in and Daniela kissed
Arturo just as he was recovering from Augustin's news.
“Hi,
Dad,” said Daniela. Erick saluted him, then stood at ease. Truth
was he was anything but.
“Well, I
came to work,” said Daniela with a grin. “Because as I said this
morning I'm very serious. So tell me where is my office and who will
be my secretary.”
This came
as no surprise to Arturo.
“To have
that you have to earn it,” said Arturo.
“Ay,
Dad,” Daniela whined.
“Did your
mother tell you to ask for that?”
“No. She
said I will have to work hard but thought that because I'm your
daughter you'll treat me well.”
“This is
what I should have told your brother and didn't.”
“It's
your fault,” she said to Erick, who turned away.
“It's not
his fault, simply --”
“Hello!”
said Nina, who entered without being announced or even knocking. She
kissed her children before kissing her husband, who was a little
miffed at the interruption.
“It's so
good that my children are working here,” Nina said.
“That's
what I thought, Mama, but Papa doesn't want me here,” Daniela
pouted.
“Now,
don't say that. You have to start at the bottom. Tell Angeles to
show you where the coffee is so you can get some for us now.
Thanks.”
Daniela
pouted as she got up. Her reluctance was obvious.
“Go on,
daughter. Obey your father, please,” said Nina. “Just as you
obeyed in the housework, show you can do so in the office.”
Nina made a
petulant face which Arturo didn't miss as she left the office. He
waited for Daniela to close the door behind herself.
“Thanks
for your help,” Arturo said to Nina.
“Well,
forgive me for interrupting work, but Erick, I found Consuelo.”
Erick
looked askance at Nina, which Arturo did not notice.
“Consuelo
is living in the worst kind of neighborhood with her friend, Clara.
I tried to bring her home but she doesn't want to.” She turned
around to address her son. “She said it's you, Erick, who has to
ask her.”
“Erick,
your Mommy is right,” Arturo said. “Go to her and apologize.
After offending her as you did, the least you can do is apologize.”
“Papa,
look --”
“Erick,
go and talk to her,” said Nina.
“But I'm
working now, Mama. Important stuff.”
“Well, I
think this is more important. Do what your father says. He knows
what's necessary now.”
“Erick,
your Mommy is right. The most important thing is to get your
marriage back to normal. Nina, can you help one more time, please?”
“Yes.”
She took a note out of her purse and headed toward the door. “Here's
the address and I'll explain how to get there.”
Erick
noticed that his father's attention was on some business document or
other. He obediently followed Nina to the door.
“Go and
get her and you better return to the house because everything depends
on you saving your marriage if you want to inherit this company.
Understand?” She whispered all but the last word and petted his
cheek. He sulked all the way out. “It's not that complicated.”
She closed the door behind him.
“Thanks.
I'm pleased to see you're seeing things as I do about our children.”
“Arturo,
you're right about everything. You've been right since the
beginning.” She kissed him and caressed his cheek. “I'll leave
you to work. Excuse me.”
She picked
up her purse and left. Arturo watched her leave. He appeared
confused.
Gisela took
her job of professional crêpe-hanger very seriously. It was the
perfect complement to her habit of gossiping.
“They
said that this woman was very interested in seeing you.”
“Yes. It
was my mother-in-law.”
“Hm. And
what did she want?”
“To go
back to her house with her.”
“And why
didn't you?”
“The one
who has to want me at their side isn't her, it's my husband.”
“Don't be
a fool! Do you know what's waiting for you if you don't go back?”
“Yes.
Lots of work and life with dignity.”
“There is
no life with dignity when hunger knocks at the door. Especially in
your case when you're expecting a baby. And how are you going to
work like that?”
“You
worked as a model, right?”
“Yes.”
“So do
you know what you're going to do? Do they model maternity clothes?
Or how are you going to support your baby?”
“You know
what? I'm sure I will find something. I don't know what.”
“Therefore
you're going to be killing yourself working to live in a dump like
this. And when that child feels abandoned when nobody takes care of
him he'll become a brat –”
Consuelo
had finally had her fill. She gritted her teeth and put the rack of
clean dishes on the table.
“Don't be
mistaken. I will take care of this baby. Always.” As she picked
it up to put it back Gisela started again, but Consuelo cut her off
at the pass. “You know what? Clara is right. You are the most
negative person I've ever met.” She turned her back and left the
room.
“That's
advice, little girl,” Gisela shouted. She didn't get that she was
the one sort of person nobody ever needs, a buttinsky.
Eladio was
at Monserrat's apartment for what more normal men would regard as an
Afternoon Delight. They were undressed for a change.
“You're
supposed to please me, divert me,” Eladio said to his whore.
“I want
to, of course,” Monserrat said. “But I'd like you to return the
favor. Let me have a party with all my friends.”
“Very
well, very well,” he said. He was impatient to continue what they
had begun.
“I need
your help because it has to be big.”
“Just
shut up about that,” he said, impatiently. “It just can't be
here. Just ask for what you need.”
“Isn't it
obvious?”
“Don't
you realize? I won't come. We won't be together.”
“Well,
then we'll have a party all by ourselves,” she said.
She
proceeded to kiss his neck, shoulders, and back while trying to be
seductive. Finally, he turned around and said, “Just shut up”
and began kissing her, something he didn't normally do. Possibly he
decided to pretend that she was Julia as he pulled her down onto the
bed.
Over in
Querétaro Regina and David talked about their parents and the latest
salvos fired in the family war. Both were smart enough to know that
they were in for a long conflict.
“How is
it that my father looked for you, my love?” he asked.
“Don't be
upset, love. Besides, you know I wanted to talk to your father just
as you did with mine.”
“No, this
is different. No way am I going to allow my father to bother you.”
“Ay, let
it be. Besides, he walked away more annoyed than I was.”
“More? I
can't imagine that.”
“It looks
like he's accustomed to always getting his way. True? But I am
prepared to do what it takes to protect our love.”
“My
love,” he said, smiling. “You enchant me. I'm fascinated!”
“One
thing more. Something that might worry you. Your father said that
if you don't obey he'll give you nothing.”
“Nothing
is what I expect from him. There isn't enough money to buy what you
give me. Or what you make me feel.”
“What you
feel? Really?”
They
embraced and began discarding their clothes. When they hit the
sheets David got the kind of action his father could only dream of.
The kind he could barely imagine.
Augustin
was waiting for Gabriela in the café. She was a little late and
blamed the traffic, but he didn't mind. He asked her not to address
him so formally, a requeset she was not accustomed to from someone of
his age. He said his friends never address him in the formal manner.
“And you
don't have a family? Or a wife?”
“No. I
haven't found the woman of my dreams yet. But who knows? I could be
very close to her and perhaps I'm thinking about having a family.”
“I'm very
enthusiastic about having a family with Franco,” she said. “Franco
is my fiancé.”
“And do
you know him very well?”
“What? I
don't understand your question.”
“I'm
referring to whether you know who Franco really is.”
Julia was
coming downstairs when Franco arrived carrying the transfile. As
soon as she saw him she knew something was wrong. He was looking
down at the transfile as though he saw his entire career – or life
– life in that box. When she got his attention he looked as though
he were about to cry. She embraced him for a moment, then faced him.
He looked as though he were crying as he pulled away.
“Please
leave me alone. I don't want you to see me like this,” he said,
turning his back. He sat on the couch and she sat on the coffee
table in front of him.
“What
happened?”
“Before I
tell you I have to tell you I love you,” he said.
“Why are
you talking like this, so sadly? What happened?”
“Because
I can't live in this house anymore.”
“If this
is because of what my father said, don't worry,” she said. She got
up but he stopped her.
“No, no.
It wasn't him. It was Godfather. He's thrown me out of the house
and the company.”
“I know
very well who Franco is,” Gabriela said. “I met him years ago
and I know he's a marvelous man. But what I don't understand is why
you asked. Why does this worry you?”
“No; I'm
just giving you a little advice. When we're in love we're blind and
the ones we love aren't what we believe.”
“Not in
my case. Franco is the man I want to marry and I'm sure I know what
I need to about him.”
“I can
see you're an intelligent girl. But pay attention to everything.
Always. Don't confide in anyone.”
“You not
either?”
“Me not
either,” he joked.
“Okay.
You asked me here to talk about myself, my fiance, my aunt --”
“Ah.
Well, you know Arturo can't go near your aunt Julia and he asked me
to ask you something on his behalf.”
“Augustin,
my aunt is fine. I can only tell you that.”
“Ah,
well, at least does she have mementos of him?”
“Yes, of
course. A letter --”
“Arturo
only wants Julia to know that he will help her in any or all ways she
needs.”
“It seems
that Arturo loves her very much.”
“Not
everyone has the good fortune to live a love like they had.”
“That
they had or have?”
“Well, I
can't speak for Arturo.”
“If you
speak with such discretion maybe he didn't tell you much.”
“Between
love and discretion I don't know that there is much to say.”
“We do
this for the affection we have. You for your aunt and I for my
friend.”
“Miguel
told me he'd give me computer classes,” Clara told Consuelo. “But
if, as you suspect he's in love with you maybe I'd better say no.
What do you think?”
“Even if
it were true that he loved me, nothing's happened between us.”
“That's a
shame, Consuelo, because he seems like a super nice guy. From what
I've seen I'd like him for you.”
“But I
love Erick. Erick is my husband. But you shouldn't worry about
that. Accept Miguel's offer. He's a great teacher and he's good
company.”
“Thanks.”
Erick
appeared at the open door. He waited until she noticed him,
“Consuelo,
my love, can I ask your forgiveness?”
He actually
knelt down in front of her like the knight in shining armor he could
never be.
“I want
you to come home with me. I miss you so much.” He kissed her
hands.
Consuelo
smiled. This was what she had hoped for.
Nina would
have been so proud of his performance. Considering that her career
as an actress had been a total flop, one has to wonder how she could
have taught him to cry at the right moment.
Julia
waited for Eladio to get home. She confronted him.
“How
could you do something so horrible as to throw Franco out? What
could he have done?”
“Didn't
he tell you?”
“No.
Only that you did that.”
“Didn't
he say why? It was over no less than a mistake in an important deal
and besides, his lack of respect.”
“Did you
bother him or ever ask him if there was a problem or –”
“Why
aren't you listening? He showed disrespect. Besides I don't have
time for my employees' problems.”
“Do I
have to remind you that before he was your employee Franco is your
godson? Eladio, when you brought him to this house you said it was
our duty as godparents to care for him as though he were our son. I
don't know his parents, but you promised them. If I accepted it was
to take care of him. I intend to still do so.”
“I
thought you didn't love Franco.”
“I don't
like the way he behaves when it's exactly like you.”
“Well,
no. He hasn't learned anything. To work without complaint, and he
failed in his duty.”
“You know
what? You did well. I'm glad you are making him leave. Because
when he's far away from you he can become a good man. A man who
knows how to love sincerely.” She handed him an envelope. “Franco
left this for you. Eladio, the way you're going, nobody will ever
love you.”
She left
him alone in the room.
Consuelo
pulled Erick to his feet.
“Look at
me. Tell me, do you really mean that?”
He nodded.
“Yes, my love.” He kissed her. “I swear. I only saw
Monserrat to end it with her. That's over forever.”
“Really,
Erick? You're not lying to me again?”
“No. I
remember a time when I was much stronger. My fear that you'd leave
me, and my jealousy and anger... I was afraid I'd lose you, my love.
Give me another chance. I came to tell you I love you.”
“My
love,” she said.
He held her
face in both his hands and kissed her. She tried to embrace him. It
did not occur to her that he held her face as he did on purpose. It
was to put his forearms in between them to make the embrace awkward.
The
following morning Julia stopped Gabriela on her way out. Her niece
repeated Arturo's message to her. It made her happy because she knew
he would want to help her, but sad that she could not accept. Again
she told her that she had her reasons for staying with Eladio.
Gabriela could not understand. She knew how Eladio treated Julia.
“But you
should be and you deserve to be happy,” she reminded her.
“You're
right. I need to find the way to get out of here. Just one motive
to walk out the door. Without so much fear.”
Augustin
reported back to Arturo.
“She
wouldn't give me details, but said she was well. The whole time I
sensed she was apprehensive when we talked.”
“Julia
must have told her that I shouldn't expect anything or have hopes.”
“If
that's true, Julia must be very brave to be thinking primarily of
David and Regina, don't you think?”
Arturo's
cell phone rang. He checked the screen before answering.
“What's
happened, Nina?”
“My love,
I have very good news. Consuelo came home. Erick went to her and
she came back with him.”
“That's a
load off my mind, Nina. It's good that our daughter-in-law and
grandchild are home.”
“Yes.
Our grandchild. I want to prepare something special for dinner.
Will you be home?”
“Yes, of
course. I'll be home with you.”
He didn't
sound entirely happy about this. He ended the call. Nina was
grinning at the other end.
“Consuelo
is home,” he told Augustin. “I'm going home early to be with my
family.”
“It's
good that you're recovering the will to be with your family. I hope
you'll think better of your plans for divorce.”
The look on
Arturo's face said he hadn't and that he knew he was being sent on a
guilt trip.
“Please,
Aunt, don't be afraid. Don't give up the dream of being with the man
you love.”
“It
sounds beautiful, but I can't until I know that Eladio can't throw
David out into the street and close all the doors to him everywhere.”
“Aunt,
you will succeed and you know, David is capable of succeeding on his
own.”
“Yes,
that's true. You know what he said today? He said he would help me
if I decide to leave Eladio. Can you imagine?”
“We'll
see. But we don't know if you can leave him for Arturo.”
“Even if
I can't leave for him, I don't want to live like this anymore! Every
day Eladio gets worse. Do you know what he did to Franco? He threw
him out of the house and the company.”
Eladio read
Franco's letter.
Godfather,
I know I shouldn't have spoken as I did. I was having a bad time.
Ever since David came home from Monterrey I've gotten frustrated
without reason. I know I should be grateful to you and to you I'm
only as an employee. A moocher in your house. But I have seen you
as a father, the father I never had. I've admired you since I was a
little boy. I wanted to be like you. I hoped you'd think of me as a
son, but I see that this isn't the case. Forgive me if I failed you
and thanks for everything you've done for me. Franco.
Ah, Eladio, the gods gave you business strategy skills but you are blind to an important historical truth. There are reasons that Roman emperors and modern dictators don't designate heirs for most of their lives. Either they feel that the world ceases to exist once they are dead which is hubris or that they fear rebellion or civil war which often leads to assassination. Yet they continue to revel in their own evil. They will eventually reap what they sow.
Ah, Eladio, the gods gave you business strategy skills but you are blind to an important historical truth. There are reasons that Roman emperors and modern dictators don't designate heirs for most of their lives. Either they feel that the world ceases to exist once they are dead which is hubris or that they fear rebellion or civil war which often leads to assassination. Yet they continue to revel in their own evil. They will eventually reap what they sow.
“Surely
what we had to offer here seemed little,” said Gisela.
“Ah, we
offered,” Clara repeated.
“Of
course. Also it must have been intolerable here for her.”
“You know
what? Every time you speak, it's more rat poison. Close your mouth
or the coffee will be contaminated.”
Miguel
knocked on the doorframe.
“Good
evening.”
“If
you're looking for Consuelo, she left this afternoon,” said Gisela.
“She left with her husband a little while ago.”
Miguel
wondered what made that possible.
Arturo and
Nina went upstairs after dinner. They talked about their children.
They seemed in agreement about everything except Regina and David's
relationship.
“I'm glad
Erick reconsidered his decision, because I told him it would be worth
it,” Nina said. She took off the outer lace jacket of her peignoir
so Arturo could see her in most of her siliconed glory. She walked
over to him and fingered the lapel of his jacket. “To fight for
our children and our family. You know what I think? That now it
would be beautiful for us to go one together.”
“Nina, I
–”
“I know I
have to give you time,” she said as she pulled back a little. “I
won't expect more. If you want to be with me, you can all you want.”
Arturo
weakened. Was it guilt or was he tired of fighting her appeal to his
hormones? He looked as though he didn't know. When she pressed her
lips to his he didn't resist.
Erick
checked to make sure that Consuelo was asleep. He took out his cell
phone and sent a tet to the whore he still had in common with
Arturo's worst enemy.
Sorry I
couldn't see you this morning but I love you and desire you more than
ever.
He hit Send
and looked back at Consuelo. The phone pinged the reply notice. He
held it between his hands in panic.
I must
see you. I have incredible plans for my birthday. I'll see you
tomorrow.
He turned
off the phone and looked over his shoulder again.
Whatever
had happened in the Gómez Luna bedroom, Eladio was sound asleep
while Julia tossed and turned on the other side of the bed. It was
impossible to tell the nature of her dream. Was it of ecstasy or was
it a nightmare? She opened her eyes and quietly turned on the lamp.
She looked over at Eladio in horror and thought to herself. I
will be happy with Arturo. You will see, Eladio.
Personally, I'd advise Julia to add Mujeres Asesinas and Deadly Women to her Netflix queue.
Personally, I'd advise Julia to add Mujeres Asesinas and Deadly Women to her Netflix queue.
Nina must
have felt like Cleopatra after she had seduced Julius Caesar. It was
evident that Arturo had been performing above the usual high
standard. What she could not have realized was that his eyes were
half-closed most of the time. This was because he needed to imagine
himself making love to Julia, as he had done so long ago it would
seem he wouldn't remember what it was like. But he did as though it
were only the day before.
When both
had been well-satisfied, Arturo rolled over on his back, facing away
from Nina. He opened his eyes for a moment before she tried to
interest him in another round.
“I missed
you so much,” Nina said. “I don't know what I did to make you so
distant. But that's not important.” She started kissing him
again. “What we must do now is recover our marriage.”
“You
might be right. It's for my family,” he said between kisses. His
eyes were closed until he broke the kiss. He then stared at the
ceiling. “The problems were enough to forget all the years we were
happy.”
“Therefore,
why don't we give ourselves the opportunity? My love.”
“Yes,”
said Arturo. He looked her in the eyes for a moment, then looked
away. “It would be best to forget it all. Forget all the wrong in
our marriage.”
Nina smiled
to herself when he couldn't see. She was sure she had won.
Labels: poder
Comments:
-- A quote from the capítulo --
¡La dignidad se acaba, niña, cuando el hambre le pega a uno! Y más en tu caso que estás esperando un chamaquito. ¿Ya te pusiste a pensar quién te va a dar un trabajo así? *
* Gisela using whatever scraps of sobriety she can muster to give a reality-check to the Doormat, formerly known as Consuelo: "Dignity runs out, little girl, when hunger strikes one! And more in your case now that you're expecting a child. Did you give some thought as to who will be giving you a job in the state you're in?" It's good that Consuelo wants to provide for her baby and give him a dignified life but she should start by demonstrating a little dignity vis-à-vis her scumbucket of a husband for his repeated humiliation and mistreatment of her.
Dignidad= dignity, honor.
Acabarse = to end, to finish, to run out.
Pegar = to hit, to strike, to beat.
Chamaquito = diminutive of "chamaco", which is a colloquial word mainly used in Mexico to designate a child.
In fact, there are quite a few synonyms for the word "child" in Spanish so I compiled a list of the ones I know and categorized them depending on age:
- bebé, bebito(a), nene(a) = baby.
- chiquito(a), chiquitín(ina), chiquilín(in a), criatura = toddler, small child.
- niño(a), chamaco(a), chilpayate = small child. The two latter words are mostly used in Mexico.
- muchacho(a), joven (masculine only), jovencito(a) = young person, teenager. Muchacho(a) can also be used to designate a servant.
- chico(a), chaval(a) = very versatile because they can designate any age from small child to teenager to young adult. However, my understanding is that chaval(a) is mostly used in Spain and specifically Andalusia as far as I've been told.
- escuincle(a), mocoso(a), niñato(a) = These have a mostly pejorative use the way we'd say in English brat, punk, little snot, little bugger, etc.
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Tonight you guys get a double dose of me; this probably won't happen again anytime soon.
Anyone else notice that the Chimp and Eladio have the same taste in PJs?
Anyone else notice that the Chimp and Eladio have the same taste in PJs?
Thanks for the impressive double duty, Urban.
Nina is finally working smarter by appearing to get her children in line, and supporting her husband. Art has no valid reasons now he can use to throw the marriage away.
I was impressed by how well Erick followed through on his mommy's orders (and wasn't it funny that that's what Art called her) to woo Connie back. I didn't think he had the acting ability in him, but he played the part brilliantly. But then of course he was stupid enough to text his mistress while he was in the same room as his wife. Idiot.
Was not expecting Eladio to throw Franco out of the business and the house like that just for sassing back. What would he do to him if he also found out Franco tried to betray him? Yikes! Julia is right that he'll end up all alone, with no one there to love him. He's now kicked both his sons out (although Julia doesn't yet know about David).
Will Art have to reverse roles with Augustin and try to talk him out of his feelings for young Gabi? He seemed shocked to hear Augie's feelings for her.
Nina is finally working smarter by appearing to get her children in line, and supporting her husband. Art has no valid reasons now he can use to throw the marriage away.
I was impressed by how well Erick followed through on his mommy's orders (and wasn't it funny that that's what Art called her) to woo Connie back. I didn't think he had the acting ability in him, but he played the part brilliantly. But then of course he was stupid enough to text his mistress while he was in the same room as his wife. Idiot.
Was not expecting Eladio to throw Franco out of the business and the house like that just for sassing back. What would he do to him if he also found out Franco tried to betray him? Yikes! Julia is right that he'll end up all alone, with no one there to love him. He's now kicked both his sons out (although Julia doesn't yet know about David).
Will Art have to reverse roles with Augustin and try to talk him out of his feelings for young Gabi? He seemed shocked to hear Augie's feelings for her.
I think Arturo is shocked that Augustin would look twice at someone young enough to be his daughter. He's mature enough to realize that this mostly doesn't work unless the younger woman is very mature intellectually and socially. If they were college profs and Gabriela were a genius student this would be more understandable.
About Erick: He will act in his own self-interest without regard for others. Nina has him convinced that he is the only rightful heir to his father's fortune. This is incredibly stupid because Arturo has given no indication he intends to leave everything to any one child. It's 2015 and I don't think this was necessarily the norm in 1988 when the original was made. Now that Regina has shown business capability that will be of value to Arturo she is the better candidate to inherit the majority of Arturo's family fortune, but I don't think he will go that way until Erick and Daniela betray him again.
About Erick: He will act in his own self-interest without regard for others. Nina has him convinced that he is the only rightful heir to his father's fortune. This is incredibly stupid because Arturo has given no indication he intends to leave everything to any one child. It's 2015 and I don't think this was necessarily the norm in 1988 when the original was made. Now that Regina has shown business capability that will be of value to Arturo she is the better candidate to inherit the majority of Arturo's family fortune, but I don't think he will go that way until Erick and Daniela betray him again.
You must have pulled a all nighter UA, thank you for this one and the Yo No, awesome.
Franco is a fool. Take no prisoners boss, disrespects the boss by not showing for a very important meeting, takes a crap where he eats, gets fired. Boohoo
OMG another TN cardboard cut out that mistakes stirring in his loins for fate. There is a reason TN women wear skin tight dresses grocery shopping. You never know when Mr. Right is placed in produce by way of the stars. You disappoint me Augustin.
Julia becomes more unappealing every day and thought that not possible.
I tell ya, that Nina is a git r done kinda girl with finesse, I want her on my side. It's high art to get what you want and the other party believe they got what they wanted and it was their idea.
Franco is a fool. Take no prisoners boss, disrespects the boss by not showing for a very important meeting, takes a crap where he eats, gets fired. Boohoo
OMG another TN cardboard cut out that mistakes stirring in his loins for fate. There is a reason TN women wear skin tight dresses grocery shopping. You never know when Mr. Right is placed in produce by way of the stars. You disappoint me Augustin.
Julia becomes more unappealing every day and thought that not possible.
I tell ya, that Nina is a git r done kinda girl with finesse, I want her on my side. It's high art to get what you want and the other party believe they got what they wanted and it was their idea.
Urban, simply superb.
"She was like a mannequin, with a blank stare and no real life in her" and "Personally, I'd advise Julia to add Mujeres Asesinas and Deadly Women to her Netflix queue" were among my favorites.
By throwing Franco out, Eladio has indicated once again that he needs no one. He and he alone shapes his fate and destiny. He feels everyone else is simply there to service him, carry out his orders and obey. He is not capable of real feeling - what he has for Julia is an obsession as he knows he will never receive her love. She is a challenge and that only thing/person who will not give him what he desires.
Why would Gabi stand for Franco's failure to defend her while Eladio threatened her and got far too physical? At that point, she should have realized he was a low life coward and that her uncle is dangerous and unstable. It saddens and upsets me that she and Julia are being bullied by and abused by these two terrible men. Oh and let's add Consuelo to the mix as Erick is just as reprehensible. Intelligent women making such poor choices saddens me and infuriates my inner feminist (credit to Sara)...
Yes Vivi, Nina appears to be giving in, supporting Arturo's decisions and working to keep the family together. Perhaps he shouldn't be blamed for trying to do the same. That said, I simply feel he has too much baggage (including two loathsome children) and is simply not worthy of top galan status. Julia deserves better.
Diana
"She was like a mannequin, with a blank stare and no real life in her" and "Personally, I'd advise Julia to add Mujeres Asesinas and Deadly Women to her Netflix queue" were among my favorites.
By throwing Franco out, Eladio has indicated once again that he needs no one. He and he alone shapes his fate and destiny. He feels everyone else is simply there to service him, carry out his orders and obey. He is not capable of real feeling - what he has for Julia is an obsession as he knows he will never receive her love. She is a challenge and that only thing/person who will not give him what he desires.
Why would Gabi stand for Franco's failure to defend her while Eladio threatened her and got far too physical? At that point, she should have realized he was a low life coward and that her uncle is dangerous and unstable. It saddens and upsets me that she and Julia are being bullied by and abused by these two terrible men. Oh and let's add Consuelo to the mix as Erick is just as reprehensible. Intelligent women making such poor choices saddens me and infuriates my inner feminist (credit to Sara)...
Yes Vivi, Nina appears to be giving in, supporting Arturo's decisions and working to keep the family together. Perhaps he shouldn't be blamed for trying to do the same. That said, I simply feel he has too much baggage (including two loathsome children) and is simply not worthy of top galan status. Julia deserves better.
Diana
Permalink posted by 
: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 8:58:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 8:58:00 AM EST
Actually, I got interrupted by a phone call from someone I hadn't talked to in a few days so I lost an hour or so. If I had checked on Saturday for YNCELH's scheduling I wouldn't have screwed up and would have covered the correct episode. That's a mistake I won't make twice. I am behind on MIVAC now and the chopping up of that series' episodes doesn't help.
Having said that....
I wonder how long Arturo will be able to cope with mentally replacing Nina with Julia. I don't think this will work forever. Neither will she be able to always pretend to agree with him and get her brat children into line. She will probably crack before he does, but there won't be much time difference.
Erick will screw up before either of his parents crack under these conditions. Nina may reach a point where she will be tired of covering up for him, but her greed will check her impatience for a while.
If Eladio is coping the same way it won't last forever for him, either. As for his treatment of Franco, I neglected to add a comment about that which I may add to this chapter or save for a future one. I'm thinking about it right now.
Having said that....
I wonder how long Arturo will be able to cope with mentally replacing Nina with Julia. I don't think this will work forever. Neither will she be able to always pretend to agree with him and get her brat children into line. She will probably crack before he does, but there won't be much time difference.
Erick will screw up before either of his parents crack under these conditions. Nina may reach a point where she will be tired of covering up for him, but her greed will check her impatience for a while.
If Eladio is coping the same way it won't last forever for him, either. As for his treatment of Franco, I neglected to add a comment about that which I may add to this chapter or save for a future one. I'm thinking about it right now.
Thanks so much, UA, for that detailed retelling.
As Hub glanced at the screen last night, he said "I don't like the way he ties his tie" as he looked at the perpetually scowling Eladio. When I asked what be thought about the other ties, he was fine with them..all the others were Windsor knots. Random, no?
I was watching Eladio as he embraced(?) Ratty McRaterson. Meh. His sensual skilz seem to have disappeared.
Auggue needs a new hairstyle. I am not loving his look. Short or long..pick one.
Nini's bubblebum in that tight, micromini dress is a sight to behold. Yowza. She seems to still have her mojo as far as weakwilled Art is concerned. Whataworm. You are so unworthy of my respect and support as you pant and moan after your onetruelove. Ha and meh. As if. I do not buy it. Why should I care about any of these people ?
As Hub glanced at the screen last night, he said "I don't like the way he ties his tie" as he looked at the perpetually scowling Eladio. When I asked what be thought about the other ties, he was fine with them..all the others were Windsor knots. Random, no?
I was watching Eladio as he embraced(?) Ratty McRaterson. Meh. His sensual skilz seem to have disappeared.
Auggue needs a new hairstyle. I am not loving his look. Short or long..pick one.
Nini's bubblebum in that tight, micromini dress is a sight to behold. Yowza. She seems to still have her mojo as far as weakwilled Art is concerned. Whataworm. You are so unworthy of my respect and support as you pant and moan after your onetruelove. Ha and meh. As if. I do not buy it. Why should I care about any of these people ?
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 9:57:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 9:57:00 AM EST
Stopped thinking and added it. It's right after Franco's letter so it will be easy to find. There will be a future one about Erick that I will put in another word file for future copy/paste.
As I said in today's YNCELH discussion I recently became addicted to those true crime series on ID, which are on YouTube. Julia's about to crack under the pressure; she could end up as a story on Snapped or Behind Mansion Walls which has multiple stories about the DuPonts. Those of us who got into Mujeres Asesinas might recall the episode Azucena, Liberada which presents Julia's peasant-class counterpart. She only took five months to snap. Interestingly, her grandfather's name in that episode is Eladio.
BTW, the original version from Argentina placed the same story in a city environment. The seller is her father rather than her grandfather, which only seemed a little less shocking.
As I said in today's YNCELH discussion I recently became addicted to those true crime series on ID, which are on YouTube. Julia's about to crack under the pressure; she could end up as a story on Snapped or Behind Mansion Walls which has multiple stories about the DuPonts. Those of us who got into Mujeres Asesinas might recall the episode Azucena, Liberada which presents Julia's peasant-class counterpart. She only took five months to snap. Interestingly, her grandfather's name in that episode is Eladio.
BTW, the original version from Argentina placed the same story in a city environment. The seller is her father rather than her grandfather, which only seemed a little less shocking.
Thanks, Urban. Terrific recap. Some of my favorite lines:
“Ah, You came to see me?” he asked. As usual, everything was all about himself.
“Hi, Dad,” said Daniela. Erick saluted him, then stood at ease. Truth was he was anything but.
I couldn't help but laugh at Consuelo being snookered by Erick's "sincerity" asking her to come back. But she wants a family so bad that it was also sad. Damn, Erick looked so contrite. I remember the actor from Teresa, where he was the rich snooty ex-boyfriend that fell from grace and got hooked on drugs. His eyes really bring it on.
Arturo, I tried to work with you but, dude, you have no resolve. Stay with your wife and just send Julia some money to help her get started on a single life.
ITA Nina had a plan and worked it well. But how long can she keep up the act? I can't see her stifling an insult to Consuelo or Miguel forever.
I too was surprised to see Eladio kick out Franco. Julia is right though. If Franco is away from Eladio, he might have a chance at becoming a better man.
Kudos to Julia for not accepting the new canaries. It's a baby step, but it's a start to standing up to Eladio.
Susanlynn - I'm with you on Augie's haircut. Normally I can roll with any hairstyle on a hot guy, but Augie's hair looks a mess in the back and I want it trimmed.
“Ah, You came to see me?” he asked. As usual, everything was all about himself.
“Hi, Dad,” said Daniela. Erick saluted him, then stood at ease. Truth was he was anything but.
I couldn't help but laugh at Consuelo being snookered by Erick's "sincerity" asking her to come back. But she wants a family so bad that it was also sad. Damn, Erick looked so contrite. I remember the actor from Teresa, where he was the rich snooty ex-boyfriend that fell from grace and got hooked on drugs. His eyes really bring it on.
Arturo, I tried to work with you but, dude, you have no resolve. Stay with your wife and just send Julia some money to help her get started on a single life.
ITA Nina had a plan and worked it well. But how long can she keep up the act? I can't see her stifling an insult to Consuelo or Miguel forever.
I too was surprised to see Eladio kick out Franco. Julia is right though. If Franco is away from Eladio, he might have a chance at becoming a better man.
Kudos to Julia for not accepting the new canaries. It's a baby step, but it's a start to standing up to Eladio.
Susanlynn - I'm with you on Augie's haircut. Normally I can roll with any hairstyle on a hot guy, but Augie's hair looks a mess in the back and I want it trimmed.
A thorough, thorough recap Urban, I feel I saw it.
It will be interesting how Franco handles this.
I miss Mujeres Asesinas, wonder why its not on anymore?
It will be interesting how Franco handles this.
I miss Mujeres Asesinas, wonder why its not on anymore?
Nina won't be able to keep this up long. She has slipped several times in the recent past with calling Miguel "bastardo" in front of Arturo that I can't see her lasting more than two or three episodes before she does it again. If Arturo starts spending more time at home as he seems to have decided to he will overhear something soon and he has yet to hear her call Consuelo the sort of dirty names she loves to use so much.
It's been a while but now I remember Nones' character in Teresa. He was also the errant oldest son of Victoria Ruffo in Corona de Lagrimas which I bailed on after a week and this blog didn't recap. I guess this is his niche.
All I can say about Julia and animals is that it's a good thing she didn't have a cat or dog.
It's been a while but now I remember Nones' character in Teresa. He was also the errant oldest son of Victoria Ruffo in Corona de Lagrimas which I bailed on after a week and this blog didn't recap. I guess this is his niche.
All I can say about Julia and animals is that it's a good thing she didn't have a cat or dog.
Oops; I wish we could edit posts. I have to remember to always preview first.
Variopinta, MA is based on two anthology books by a true crime author in Argentina. They ran out of stories and I don't think we saw all the Mexican ones in first-run. Most of them are on YouTube and Hulu (which now is totally paid) has all the Argentine ones, which I think was the whole collection. Some of those are so perverse you might need a long shower afterward to get rid of feeling dirty.
As for Franco, he's lucky to get away alive at this point. I have worked for a couple of narcissists and they are the worst sort of boss. Since Arturo didn't rat him out over the offer of confidential information (very smart of him to record that conversation) Franco is almost home-free. However, the smartest thing he could do is find another job somewhere else in a different industry. However, I don't see that happening. Julia may have sent Eladio on an unwelcome guilt trip and he might take him back, in which case he might end up in boiling oil when Franco finds out he is his sperm donor.
I wonder whether Eladio's keeping that secret would give Julia grounds for divorce.
Variopinta, MA is based on two anthology books by a true crime author in Argentina. They ran out of stories and I don't think we saw all the Mexican ones in first-run. Most of them are on YouTube and Hulu (which now is totally paid) has all the Argentine ones, which I think was the whole collection. Some of those are so perverse you might need a long shower afterward to get rid of feeling dirty.
As for Franco, he's lucky to get away alive at this point. I have worked for a couple of narcissists and they are the worst sort of boss. Since Arturo didn't rat him out over the offer of confidential information (very smart of him to record that conversation) Franco is almost home-free. However, the smartest thing he could do is find another job somewhere else in a different industry. However, I don't see that happening. Julia may have sent Eladio on an unwelcome guilt trip and he might take him back, in which case he might end up in boiling oil when Franco finds out he is his sperm donor.
I wonder whether Eladio's keeping that secret would give Julia grounds for divorce.
Urban--Excellent recap. I'm am in awe of your skills and stamina in the face of multiple recaps on different novelas.
Have nothing to add to the conversation. I felt the same way about what all the characters did last night. Nina gets a prize for being a manipulative bitch--but not in the same vein as Ursula on YoNO.
Julia should have just rejected the canaries y punto. It wasn't necessary to explain why to someone like Eladio. I hope she keeps it up, but I fear for her, she's still very emotionally fragile. Hummy doesn't help. For all of Franco's being too much like Eladio, I believe he truly cared for Julia, as the mother figure who raised him. He surely couldn't have been blind to the way Eladio treated her. If so, then Gaby is in for a terrible time if she continues to feel attached to him as her ideal mate. We know now he's like Eladio in another way--he has Gaby and Marintia. Like some men in Latin and European cultures used to, they treat their wives as sainted women on pedestals, unspoiled, "virgin" mothers, while a mistress is a whore, a sinner, a fallen woman the man just happens to "need."
Slap on the head--of course this image does not fit all--Artie and Nina have had a very physical relationship throughout their marriage, so maybe he doesn't subscribe to the same belief system.
Wish we knew more about Eladio's early life to see what kind of influence a mother figure had on him for thinking that treating Julia the way he does is acceptable. Possession through fear. The man does not know what love is--not for his father-in-law, not for his bastard son, not for his biological son, not for his wife, not for his wife's canaries.
Have nothing to add to the conversation. I felt the same way about what all the characters did last night. Nina gets a prize for being a manipulative bitch--but not in the same vein as Ursula on YoNO.
Julia should have just rejected the canaries y punto. It wasn't necessary to explain why to someone like Eladio. I hope she keeps it up, but I fear for her, she's still very emotionally fragile. Hummy doesn't help. For all of Franco's being too much like Eladio, I believe he truly cared for Julia, as the mother figure who raised him. He surely couldn't have been blind to the way Eladio treated her. If so, then Gaby is in for a terrible time if she continues to feel attached to him as her ideal mate. We know now he's like Eladio in another way--he has Gaby and Marintia. Like some men in Latin and European cultures used to, they treat their wives as sainted women on pedestals, unspoiled, "virgin" mothers, while a mistress is a whore, a sinner, a fallen woman the man just happens to "need."
Slap on the head--of course this image does not fit all--Artie and Nina have had a very physical relationship throughout their marriage, so maybe he doesn't subscribe to the same belief system.
Wish we knew more about Eladio's early life to see what kind of influence a mother figure had on him for thinking that treating Julia the way he does is acceptable. Possession through fear. The man does not know what love is--not for his father-in-law, not for his bastard son, not for his biological son, not for his wife, not for his wife's canaries.
I meant to add that Nina gets the bitch prize, only because she is younger and more beautiful than Ursula.
Thanks for another stellar recap, UA! Always a delight to read your work :) I too noticed Chimp Boy's jammies. Maybe wardrobe got a BOGOF on men's sleepwear...
I did not expect Eladio to kick Franco out but I'm glad the little turd's ego got a battering this episode! I also cheered for Arturo (a first since the show started!) when he recorded Franco's offer to betray his Padrino. It wiped off that smug expression that seems tattooed on Franco's face.
Art dove into the tray of fragrant cupcakes! Yay for Nina! But I doubt this "reconciliation" will last beyond satisfying his sexual urge after what I assume is a long dry spell by his standards. Indeed, Art hinted many times that Nina and him used to go at it like rabbits and he never had any complaints about his curvalicious wife in that department (or any other for that matter)... Until Julia reappeared in his life and she started fluttering her tear-soaked perfectly mascaraed eyelashes at him and giving him stretched lip smooches and asking him for DNA tests and whatnot! So now Art is vying for her fragrant cupcakes! He'd better be careful 'cause this kind of gluttony will give him diabetes or a beating!
I'm unclear whether Julia was having a nightmare or a sex dream. I went back and rewound the scene a couple of times and my understanding is that it was the latter. Any thoughts on this, fellow Patio dwellers?
I did not expect Eladio to kick Franco out but I'm glad the little turd's ego got a battering this episode! I also cheered for Arturo (a first since the show started!) when he recorded Franco's offer to betray his Padrino. It wiped off that smug expression that seems tattooed on Franco's face.
Art dove into the tray of fragrant cupcakes! Yay for Nina! But I doubt this "reconciliation" will last beyond satisfying his sexual urge after what I assume is a long dry spell by his standards. Indeed, Art hinted many times that Nina and him used to go at it like rabbits and he never had any complaints about his curvalicious wife in that department (or any other for that matter)... Until Julia reappeared in his life and she started fluttering her tear-soaked perfectly mascaraed eyelashes at him and giving him stretched lip smooches and asking him for DNA tests and whatnot! So now Art is vying for her fragrant cupcakes! He'd better be careful 'cause this kind of gluttony will give him diabetes or a beating!
I'm unclear whether Julia was having a nightmare or a sex dream. I went back and rewound the scene a couple of times and my understanding is that it was the latter. Any thoughts on this, fellow Patio dwellers?
Nandicta - I vote "sex dream." Kind of kinky that she and Arturo were simultaneously having erotic times with each other's image.
Thanks for your recap UA. We appreciate all the work you do especially when juggling same day recaps. Totally agree with you that Erick will screw up very soon.
Diana, when talking about Gaby and Julia you forgot their mutual abuser Humberto bringing the total to three men in their lives that abuse them. And Connie, I get she wants a family but after ALL she has been through recently with Erick, why would she trust him immediately (except for a convenient plot devise)? Make him profess his love to you at Clara's for at least a week (as the bozo would probably get bored and stop after day 2).
The writers made Auggie seem inept and the actress who plays Gaby looks really young (like teenager though I know she is 28). I wasn't getting a good vibe from their interaction. Hopefully it will get better.
Diana, when talking about Gaby and Julia you forgot their mutual abuser Humberto bringing the total to three men in their lives that abuse them. And Connie, I get she wants a family but after ALL she has been through recently with Erick, why would she trust him immediately (except for a convenient plot devise)? Make him profess his love to you at Clara's for at least a week (as the bozo would probably get bored and stop after day 2).
The writers made Auggie seem inept and the actress who plays Gaby looks really young (like teenager though I know she is 28). I wasn't getting a good vibe from their interaction. Hopefully it will get better.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 3:55:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 3:55:00 PM EST
I also vote that. Why else would Julia look in horror at Eladio asleep next to her?
The whole Madonna/Whore thing makes me sick.
The whole Madonna/Whore thing makes me sick.
-- A quote from the capítulo --
¡La dignidad se acaba, niña, cuando el hambre le pega a uno! Y más en tu caso que estás esperando un chamaquito. ¿Ya te pusiste a pensar quién te va a dar un trabajo así? *
* Gisela using whatever scraps of sobriety she can muster to give a reality-check to the Doormat, formerly known as Consuelo: "Dignity runs out, little girl, when hunger strikes one! And more in your case now that you're expecting a child. Did you give some thought as to who will be giving you a job in the state you're in?" It's good that Consuelo wants to provide for her baby and give him a dignified life but she should start by demonstrating a little dignity vis-à-vis her scumbucket of a husband for his repeated humiliation and mistreatment of her.
Dignidad= dignity, honor.
Acabarse = to end, to finish, to run out.
Pegar = to hit, to strike, to beat.
Chamaquito = diminutive of "chamaco", which is a colloquial word mainly used in Mexico to designate a child.
In fact, there are quite a few synonyms for the word "child" in Spanish so I compiled a list of the ones I know and categorized them depending on age:
- bebé, bebito(a), nene(a) = baby.
- chiquito(a), chiquitín(ina), chiquilín(in a), criatura = toddler, small child.
- niño(a), chamaco(a), chilpayate = small child. The two latter words are mostly used in Mexico.
- muchacho(a), joven (masculine only), jovencito(a) = young person, teenager. Muchacho(a) can also be used to designate a servant.
- chico(a), chaval(a) = very versatile because they can designate any age from small child to teenager to young adult. However, my understanding is that chaval(a) is mostly used in Spain and specifically Andalusia as far as I've been told.
- escuincle(a), mocoso(a), niñato(a) = These have a mostly pejorative use the way we'd say in English brat, punk, little snot, little bugger, etc.
-- Niecie, UA and Vivi: Thanks for getting back to me on this! I was perplexed by that scene, especially because it was so short, it was inserted in between the Art-Nina romp scenes and the episode ended without going back to Julia. I thought I was imagining things. Hope they'll expand on it tonight.
They might if it's repeated at the top of the episode. That seems to be the scripting pattern.
BTW, can anyone remember another novela that had three couples in bed in the same episode?
BTW, can anyone remember another novela that had three couples in bed in the same episode?
-- Tofie: Hahahaha! Well, you can't just assume Julia was dreaming about our "beloved" (blargh!) Arturo!
So far, we have only established that she was having a sex dream but we don't know who was starring in there with her. UA noted horror in her expression, I saw shock, surprise and bewilderment. (OK the last one doesn't count, because she always looks bewildered). But her reaction could also be because she dreamt she was dancing the horizontal tango with the handsome devil in the black unflattering jammies! What's your theory on this? Who do you think starred in Julia's sex dream? Arturo or Eladio? or Auggie? :D
So far, we have only established that she was having a sex dream but we don't know who was starring in there with her. UA noted horror in her expression, I saw shock, surprise and bewilderment. (OK the last one doesn't count, because she always looks bewildered). But her reaction could also be because she dreamt she was dancing the horizontal tango with the handsome devil in the black unflattering jammies! What's your theory on this? Who do you think starred in Julia's sex dream? Arturo or Eladio? or Auggie? :D
Urban---You just get better and better. Wow, what a great recap.
When they hit the sheets, David got the kind of action his father could only dream of. The kind he could barely imagine.
His life in a box was another good line---I'm afraid that Franco will indeed at some point go back to Eladio but is he doesn't, it would be the best thing for him to be free of the tyrant.
She took off the outer lace jacket of her peignoir so Arturo could see her in most of her silicone glory.
The manipulation is tremendous. Nina is a master of it. How long will it be before she shows her utter disgust for Consuelo? Nina can't stand her or Regina for that matter and throw in Miguel also. Too bad Consuelo fell for Erick's lies. How long before Consuelo again finds him with Montse? We could take bets on that one. Actually I am hoping that Erick catches Eladio with the Ratt and they end up killing each other.
I am soooo glad that Julia didn't take the new birds. The first time Eladio gets angry again, and that's a certainty, he would set them free to fend for themselves
and die also. This guy is plain evil, a control freak psycho.
So Dani wants to start out with a private office and her own secretary. What???
Can't wait for tonight.
must see tv
the gringo
When they hit the sheets, David got the kind of action his father could only dream of. The kind he could barely imagine.
His life in a box was another good line---I'm afraid that Franco will indeed at some point go back to Eladio but is he doesn't, it would be the best thing for him to be free of the tyrant.
She took off the outer lace jacket of her peignoir so Arturo could see her in most of her silicone glory.
The manipulation is tremendous. Nina is a master of it. How long will it be before she shows her utter disgust for Consuelo? Nina can't stand her or Regina for that matter and throw in Miguel also. Too bad Consuelo fell for Erick's lies. How long before Consuelo again finds him with Montse? We could take bets on that one. Actually I am hoping that Erick catches Eladio with the Ratt and they end up killing each other.
I am soooo glad that Julia didn't take the new birds. The first time Eladio gets angry again, and that's a certainty, he would set them free to fend for themselves
and die also. This guy is plain evil, a control freak psycho.
So Dani wants to start out with a private office and her own secretary. What???
Can't wait for tonight.
must see tv
the gringo
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 4:44:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 4:44:00 PM EST
-- UA: Maybe FELS? That novel had 3 couples of lovely looking people but the two who seemed to boink the most were the two villains. We would get extended scenes of them engaging in some kind of a weird reptile mating ritual... I can't remember whether an episode managed to align all couples engaging in congress but it's quite possible. Man, that show was a hoot and a half! I'm gonna put on the (excellent) soundtrack now and reminisce about the beautifully entertaining circus that FELS was :D
FELS did get a lot of action for the villains including a murder scene that many thought the most perverse to date (2008).
OT but important for a future weekend discussion
There are a few Televisa novelas that I've missed in the last couple of years and it's almost time for another toxic mothers gallery. If there were any in the following series, will someone please e-mail me the stats so I can assemble one for a few weeks from now:
Lo Imperdonable
La Malquerida
Quiero Amarte
Que Te Perdone Dios (I know this had one)
The stats should follow the pattern in the original gallery of toxic mothers.
OT but important for a future weekend discussion
There are a few Televisa novelas that I've missed in the last couple of years and it's almost time for another toxic mothers gallery. If there were any in the following series, will someone please e-mail me the stats so I can assemble one for a few weeks from now:
Lo Imperdonable
La Malquerida
Quiero Amarte
Que Te Perdone Dios (I know this had one)
The stats should follow the pattern in the original gallery of toxic mothers.
UA, good recap. Somewhat spicey episode.
I didn't watch this last night, just the end of it. And arturo was only seeing juls, and switch to juls in bed while eladio is in zzzzzzland it
Looked like she was french kissin her wrist, which means she may have been gettin it on with hot blooded artie. You'd think that letter would soften eladios heart(he'd have to have
A heart) to feel anything which he doesn't. He
Is reminiscent of Ursula on the one that's comes on after that," YNCELH"only he's male. Insanity Does not discriminate.
I didn't watch this last night, just the end of it. And arturo was only seeing juls, and switch to juls in bed while eladio is in zzzzzzland it
Looked like she was french kissin her wrist, which means she may have been gettin it on with hot blooded artie. You'd think that letter would soften eladios heart(he'd have to have
A heart) to feel anything which he doesn't. He
Is reminiscent of Ursula on the one that's comes on after that," YNCELH"only he's male. Insanity Does not discriminate.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 6:20:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 6:20:00 PM EST
OTPaging susanlynn...susanlynn, please pick up the white courtesy phone...er, come to the MIVAC thread for Wednesday the 30th...as doris has some Outlander stuff to share with you....
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