Tuesday, December 08, 2015
Pasión y Poder #24 Martes 12/8/15
Chapter
24: Paterfamilias
One
thing about people with this kind of money and influence that always
gets me is the degree to which they retreat into the past. Thus
women often put up with infidelity in their husbands, some even
endure horrific abuse to some of these megalomaniacs all in the name
of status or security. Some of the men have such delusions of
grandeur that they fancy themselves as paterfamilias, who were a law
unto themselves if they chose to be. They could decree or prevent
their children's marriages and divorce. For a while they even could
decree their deaths although this was said to have been rare in
ancient times.
Right
now I'm waiting for the day Arturo finds out about Daniela's other
activities and shouts “Is there anyone in Mexico who has not slept
with my daughter?” Poor man, but at least Nina lacks the
intelligence and the ambition to be a true Livia. It's too bad he
has a budding Messalina in his brood but that shouldn't be enough to
dethrone him. Oh, well. I'll just pour myself some good red wine
and wait for the gladiators to armor up. Should be a good show when
that happens. – D.D.
David
explained to Eladio that he was not like him. He wanted to work with
him, but wasn't willing to get involved in his father's conflict with
Arturo Montenegro. Eladio showed unusual restraint in saying that
this was impossible. He did this entirely for Julia's benefit.
“If
you want to keep competing with him and using low tricks, don't count
on me for this. You've got Franco for that,” he said. “Put me
in charge of what I can do and what I want to do. To work.”
Julia
stepped between them. She was afraid that this would escalate into
another nasty fight of which she had seen and felt too many. “Did
something happen?”
“Just
that our son never ceases to surprise me,” Eladio said. “And I
imagine he's saying this because he's working with Arturo
Montenegro's daughter.”
“David?”
asked Julia. She looked worried.
“How
much longer, David? A month?” Eladio asked.
“More
or less.”
“Very
well. In that time you can learn a lot about what's going on with
the Montenegros. And you yourself offered to participate in any way
I need you to.”
David
must have felt royally screwed.
Clara
had Francisco over for coffee. She was very worried about Maribel.
She knew that her friend had no intention of telling her husband
that she had a terminal condition and she herself was ill at ease
with the secret. Francisco was sure that Maribel's family was
enjoying themselves at the beach.
“Wouldn't
you like to see them? We can join them in Acapulco for the weekend?”
“You'd
give me that?” she asked. It was something she couldn't afford
herself, so she was excited. She would have been less so had she
seen Gisela enter the room.
“No
way in the world. No decent young lady goes on a trip with just
anyone,” said the old woman.
“Don't
start with your nonsense, Gisela. You can't tell me what I can or
can't do. Don't interfere with my life.”
“I'm
doing this for your own good.”
“Then
I'll move out of here and live alone.”
“Now
you are all against me!” Gisela exited in high drama mode.
Gisela loved playing the martyr. She had had twenty years of
practice.
“Why
did she say that?”
“I
don't know. She's always fighting with life, as though somebody had
done something bad to her.”
“What
is wrong with Gisela? Must be her age.”
“I
don't think she's always been so negative. Maybe it's age, but
lately she's been bitter, even venomous.”
“Well,
the important thing is that you and I are friends and there's always
been respect between us.”
He
coughed, missing the next thing she tried to say. He finally had to
go, saying he'd be there on Friday for their weekend trip to
Acapulco. She saw him to the door and smiled, thinking about the
upcoming weekend. Gisela came back into the room in no better mood
than she had left in.
“For
your own good behave yourself. Men like that trifle with women. One
started with my daughter. And look at how it ends.”
She
looked up at Clara, who had ignored her.
“Son,
we've talked and I've mentioned the responsibility of being your
father's heir. Please, think carefully about what you want, David.”
“Listen
well to your mother, David. She's right. Sometimes – very few –
she and I agree. Other times you're a dreamer like her. Trying to
solve the world's problems isn't a bed of roses.”
“True,
but it isn't necessary to fight with everyone else.”
“Neither
can I not answer attacks. What's been going on between Arturo and me
can't be changed,” said Eladio. “What do you think, Julia? Do
you think this can be changed?”
“Alas,
no.”
“I'm
sorry, but if that's how it is, we can't work together, Father. I
won't hurt other people. If we're going to work together, Father,
you have to respect my ways. I'll respect yours. Can we agree?”
Eladio
was doing a slow burn. Julia knew from the way he was hitting his
fingers with his gold pen that he was stopping himself from launching
a very poisonous tirade. She took a short step toward him and
touched his right shoulder. She must have felt the tension in it.
“Very
well,” he said.
“Alright,
now that you've agreed,” Julia said. “Let's go in to dinner.”
“And
Gabriela and Franco?” asked Eladio.
“We're
still waiting for them.”
“Mother,
can we go up to the dining room? Please.”
Julia
froze, then started walking toward the stairs. Eladio noticed and
didn't like it.
“What's
happened now?”
“Father,
don't ask me again to try to get information out of Regina
Montenegro. Because I won't do it.”
Nina
was dining with two acquaintances. Obviously they were trying to
provoke information out of her.
“It
can't be possible that Regina would get involved with a Gómez Luna,”
said one.
“It's
all lies. Gossip that the press invents,” Nina said.
“So
then tell us why they canceled the wedding,” asked the other. “The
invitations had gone out.”
“You
know Regina. An important work project came up in Querétaro and she
left everything to do it. She's just like her father.”
“Oh,
better if it's that because I heard something else. Imagine it was
about Daniela.”
“Oh,
people love to talk,” said Nina with her usual fake smile.
“For
a colleague you're defending this Regina too much.”
“Oh,
please, Father! This is a girl who won't talk about her parents. At
least not like you're asking about.”
“It's
odd that she never tells you or comments on anything.”
“I'm
going to wash my hands. I'm tired of this.”
He
left the room. Julia came back looking for him. Eladio said. “He's
this close to committing a very grave sin.”
“I
don't understand what you're talking about.”
“David
said he won't get information out of Regina Montenegro. Obviously
he's giving more consideration than he would to a simple colleague.
Besides, you don't feel good about this, no?”
“I
don't understand what you're insinuating.”
“It's
what they're about to do. That would be a tragedy because he'd be
shagging his own sister.”
“Are
you insane? Are you crazy? How can you say such a thing to me?
I've told you a thousand times – a thousand times – that David is
your son. Do you want to drive me mad? What is going on with you?
Why do you persist in this?”
“I'm
just assuming there's something between them. If that's not the case
why are you so defensive?”
“My
son does as he does because he is a gentleman! That's why doesn't
want any part of this mess between you and Arturo.”
“If
that's all it is why are you so upset?”
Arturo
stood in his home office, staring out the window. In the preceding
few weeks he had seen too many conflicts in his home. He knew he
wasn't without responsibility in it and was determined to make
changes. Regina came in.
“Dad,
I don't want to annoy you any more, but I don't want to tell you any
lies. I thought better of it and I have to tell you that I didn't
quit the project and will still be working with David.”
“What
are you saying?”
“If
you're angry about the information, that was Erick. It was all his
doing.”
“Yes,
but that imbecile took advantage of your brother's inexperience.”
“What
inexperience? This was a betrayal!”
“But
Eladio had a lot to do with this.”
“Dad,
I don't understand your conflict with him and I know you have your
reasons.”
“Yes,
I do, but I don't want to discuss them with you.”
“OK,
but neither David Gómez Luna nor I are at fault for the issues
between you two. Dad, please. Trust me. Understand me.”
“You
know I've always trusted in your good judgment,” Arturo said. “But
I don't understand why you want to continue on this project. I don't
–”
“I
have to achieve this. I'm a big girl and can take care of my own
affairs. Whether I'm right or wrong I have to take responsibility
for my own stuff.”
“Please
–”
“No,
Dad. David and I only work together. I have nothing else to do with
him. And truly I don't understand what's wrong between you and his
father but it has to be about more than business.”
Arturo
turned around. “It's a long story. Too long to explain.”
“Once
upon a time he worked under my grandfather, is that true?”
“Yes,
something like that.”
“Well,
to hate him that much it had to be something personal.”
“Yes.
Yes. Eladio stole something from me that didn't belong to him.”
“Dad,
please tell me. What did Eladio steal from you?”
“I'm
not in the mood to talk about that wretch. What your brother did
concerns me more. And it's not just Erick, it's what's going on with
Miguel and your mother. I've had a tough day and a very complicated
one.”
“I'm
sorry if I'm adding to your worries, but I have to –”
“I'm
sorry. You're an adult and you don't need to take on more problems.
My problems aren't your burden. Besides, you don't want to slack on
your career.”
Regina
smiled. “Therefore you're alright with this project?”
“Yes.
Go ahead. I trust you completely.”
“And
what do you think of David?”
“I
don't know him. He's demonstrated he's different from his father in
matters of business –”
“Yes,
he's told me he's different from his father. He seems like a decent
guy.”
“In
total, just be careful. I don't want any nasty surprises. No Gómez
Luna better mess with my daughter.”
Arturo
embraced his favorite child.
“Are
you coming to dinner, Dad?”
“No,
honey. I'm not hungry.”
“You
sure? I could bring you a sandwich.”
“No.
Besides my stomach's acting up.”
They
said their goodnights and Regina went up to her room. Arturo pulled
out a blue folder from his desk drawer. He paused to look through
his appointment book where he found an old photo of himself and
Julia.
“Julia,
I don't know what to say to you,” he said quietly. Then he picked
up a pen and began to write.
Although
it would please me to call you “my love,” I apologize, but I had
to write to you. Although I have family problems I can only think of
you. I want to help you in whatever way you need. Please contact
me. Arturo.
“I
asked you why you're reacting like that.”
“I
was worried why you don't love my son and listen to how you're
talking to me. I've had it. I have had it. I will not ask, I will
insist!” She seized his lapels and tried to shake him.
“You will get that damned DNA test.”
He
threw up his arms and backed away. “Hey, never. You better hope
you're telling the truth and not finding out that David is a
Montenegro.”
“If
he's seeing her what will you do? Lock him up as you did me? Keep
him in the same prison?”
“No.”
He refolded his pocket square. “Simply whatever it takes to end
that relationship.”
“Although
it puts our son's happiness on the line?”
“Please,
this can't be anything serious.”
“We...
we got married younger.”
“Yes,
Julia, and look how it all turned out. I want to get off this
subject. If you want to accept this relationship that's your
problem. I really hope, really wish that they don't have the same
bloodline. Because you know what this means. This time it's your
fault.”
He
shook his finger at her as though scolding an unruly child. He fed
off her fear, so his favorite activity was to provoke more of it. He
must be the reincarnation of Caligula.
“'Bye,
dear, it was so good to see you,” Nina said to her acquaintance.
“You shouldn't repeat that dress; I've seen it twice in a row.”
“You
are such a little viper, honey. Ciao.” They air-kissed just like
all of the Park Avenue hypocrites I don't miss. The other woman
walked out of the restaurant.
“I've
seen that dress too many times,” Nina said. The other dining
companion decided to fish for more dirty linen.
“I
hope the press stops bothering you. They just don't let go. A
little while ago they said it all.”
“Don't
worry about it. I'm used to it. It's the price for being in one of
the most important families.”
“Of
course.”
They
air-kissed and the other woman walked out. Nina dropped her smile as
soon as she was out of the dining room. It may have been possible
that for all her self-importance Nina was afraid that she really
didn't amount to a half-full bowl of frijoles. Or worse, that the
others knew this.
Miguel
sat at his computer. He found photos of Monserrat that had been sent
to Erick's cell phone. They had captions on them like “Leave your
wife like you always say” and “This is what is waiting for you
tonight.” He shook his head in disapproval. A sound of the door
handle and he closed his laptop. Petra came in to find out if he
could teach her something about computers. Apparently nobody was
dining in that night. Erick wasn't home, either.
“Do
you think he's stepping out on his wife?” she asked Miguel.
“What?”
“Yes.”
“I'm
tired, Petra. It's been a tough day for all of us.”
“OK,
but as they say in my hometown, the sun will be out tomorrow. The
clouds will go and it'll all be clear. Good night.”
“Good
night.”
Petra
left, but did not close the door. Miguel opened his laptop and
Regina walked in.
“I
talked with Dad and he's agreed about my finishing the project with
David.”
Miguel
closed his computer again.
“Good
for you. Is this another opportunity for you and David or are you
going to follow in their footsteps and think of him as another Gómez
Luna –”
“No,
no, no. That's will never happen, least of all now. Because David
came to see me.”
“Yes,
yes. And what happened?”
“Well,
he asked if I was willing to fight for us.”
“Alright!”
“And
although I'm scared to death I said Yes. I can be brave because I
love him.”
Regina
unburdened herself to Miguel. Of her three siblings he was the only
one she could trust.
“Well,
David and I agreed to continue our relationship in secret and figure
out whether it's going to be serious or not.”
“I
agree. It's better this way than trying to justify it to the whole
world.”
“I
feel guilty for not telling Dad. But it's better I didn't, isn't
it?”
“Yes.
And if Dad finds out I'll be here to help you, as always.”
Regina
smiled and hugged him.
“Miguel,
you're the best brother in the world. What would I do without you?”
“I
can't do without you,” he said. “But if it weren't for one of
Dad's mistakes I wouldn't exist.”
“Sounds
like you talked about a lot of things.”
“Yes.
He told me things about my mother I didn't imagine.”
“You
want to tell me?”
“No.
I haven't really taken this in yet. Dad told me things that really
hurt but I also want to get more out of him, you know?”
“Miguel,
life has strange ways of putting things in their place.”
“Yes,
like an architect and an engineer on the same project while their
families are sworn to hatred until death.”
They
both laughed. But they both knew that the day of reckoning couldn't
be put off forever.
In
contrast, Eladio got to preside over the dinner table in his home
that evening. He used the apparently happy presence of Gabriela and
Franco as an opportunity to enquire about David's relationship
status.
“What
about you, David? When are you going to present your girlfriend to
us?”
“What
girlfriend?”
“I
don't know.” He paused over his wine for a moment. Julia looked
from one to the other. “It's just a little odd that you're not
seeing anyone.”
“Well,
right now I'm concentrating on my work, finishing my thesis, and
starting to work with you,” David said, in a good-natured way.
“What time do I have for a girlfriend?”
“Well,
that's alright. There will be many women to pursue but few
opportunities for work.” He smiled. “So, when you have a
girlfriend your mother and I would love for you to bring her to the
house. We'd like to meet her.” He touched Julia's hand. Julia
looked nervous, but Eladio didn't see that.
“Of
course,” David said. He knew enough now to recognize this as the
manipulation it was. Not just of his mother, but of himself.
Monserrat
sat in her kitchen. Aldo knocked but she didn't want to see him or
anyone. She was in a bad mood. She took a pill and washed it down
with what looked like Scotch on the rocks.
“Open
up. I've got a delicious piece of gossip for you. You'll be glad you
did.”
She
closed the pill bottle and opened the door.
“If
this is just a piece of showbiz gossip or some other nonsense you can
go to hell,” she said.
“My,
are we in a bad mood today,” he said, walking in. He had a large
brown envelope in hand. She was careful to lock the door behind him.
“Erick's
father knows he sold the information to Eladio. While he's trying to
fix things with his father I won't be able to see him.”
“At
least you have Eladio.”
“I
don't want to endure him. I can't forgive what he did to Erick. We
have to see if he can fix things with his father and above all, if he
can have the money to maintain me.”
“If
you want to live like a queen, what you need to do is get yourself
into the Montenegro family. But officially, as his wife.”
“And
you know how to do this?” she asked, sarcastically. “And he's
married.”
“Yes,
if you can get Consuelo out of the way with the information I'm going
to share with you. I've been doing a little investigating and this
information will help you get her out of the way.” He fanned
himself with the envelope. She snatched it out of his hand and read
the document inside.
Meanwhile
her dupe was lying in bed with Consuelo. He didn't deserve to be
there. He didn't deserve to be in his father's house in any
capacity. He should have been banished.
“Don't
worry. I'm sure your father will give you another chance.”
“I
don't know. I swear right now I wish I could disappear.”
It
was entirely possible that half the household was already praying for
that.
“Hey,
why don't we go away for a few days, just the two of us. Like a
second honeymoon.”
“Yes,
I guess.”
“You're
very happy, aren't you? Because we have our health, we have no
secrets between us.” Consuelo pulled back at his expression. “My
love, look at me. You promised me you won't see Monserrat anymore.”
“Of
course.” He sat up. “Why are you resurrecting that? It's all in
the past. Things are good between us now. Don't ruin it. I'm tired.
I'd like to get a little sleep.”
He
turned away to shut off the bedside lamp. He did not turn back
toward her and deliberately remained lying on his side. Consuelo
looked at him. Something inside her said that this was not right.
The
following morning Arturo's note arrived at the foundation. It had
been delivered by messenger, who had immediately left. Julia was
happy to see Arturo's handwriting. She read the note when she was
alone. “Now I can ask you about the DNA test,” she thought.
Arturo
was alone at the breakfast table with Nina. The other places had
been set. He looked at his watch. Daniela was the first to come
down and for a change she was dressed in a manner that did not
deliberately irritate him.
“Why
do you insist on having breakfast so early?” she whined. “I'm
not even hungry yet. I'd like to have slept a little longer.”
“Good
morning,” said Arturo, while pointedly staring at her.
“Good
morning,” Daniela said as she pulled up her chair next to her
mother.
“You're
not going to kiss me?” he asked.
For
a moment her expression carried such a look of hatred. Nina did not
notice this, as she was watching Arturo. She blew a kiss past her
mother, then kissed her mother on the cheek. She tried for an
eye-to-eye high sign but got nothing in return from Nina.
“I'm
sorry, daughter, but in this house we keep regular hours. It does
you no good to sleep so late.”
“Erick
is upstairs with Consuelo,” Nina said.
“Mother,
can you explain to Dad someday that it's good to sleep well so you
don't look old before your time?”
Before
Nina had enough time to ask herself whether this was a dig Regina
came down to breakfast. She went straight to Arturo when saying
“Good morning” and kissed him. “I'm kind of in a hurry because
I have a lot of work to do.”
“You
don't have to leave so soon, daughter. Sit down and have breakfast
with us.”
“Ok,
only some fruit.” She sat down next to Miguel, who had come down
at the same time.”
“Daniela,
a strange e-mail was sent to me.”
“I
don't know what you're talking about. It sounds very strange.
Doesn't it, Mama?”
Nina
had been watching Arturo, but she now turned to look at Daniela.
“What
did this e-mail say?” Nina asked.
“It
was a warning that I should be worried about needing help resolving
these problems quickly.” Nina looked at Daniela, the usual
suspect.
Daniela
looked down at her plate. “Why are you worried? You're putting
rules on me, I'm getting therapy –” Miguel and Regina laughed
softly at this.
“You'd
better be serious. Very serious. Now you can't backslide to the way
things were but you have to do something, don't you think?”
“Well,
I don't know what more can I do,” Daniela said.
Petra,
who had just walked in, spoke up.
“Well,
right now you could give me a hand. I can't take care of this entire
house by myself. You could help me, Miss.”
Miguel
and Regina were amused.
“What,
are you crazy. Me clean the house?”
“Sounds
like an excellent idea to me,” Arturo said.
“What?”
“Starting
today you will stay in the house and help Petra.”
“Dad,
you can't be serious.”
“Of
course I'm serious.”
Miguel
raised his fork in salute.
“And
what do you think, Mommy?” Daniela's desperation was showing.
“I
don't agree but here I agreed to go along with your father.”
“Excellent.
We're all in agreement, right?”
Daniela
sulked. Nina withheld her disappointment and looked away from
Arturo. Petra grinned.
“Excellent
breakfast, Petra. Now I have to get to work like everyone else.”
He got up.
“So
do I. Thanks, Petra. 'Bye everyone.” Regina got up and left.
Arturo kissed Nina on the top of her head, which surely didn't
satisfy her.
“'Bye,
sir,” Petra said.
“'Bye,
Petra,” said Arturo. He was out the door.
Nina
and Daniela sulked at the table. Miguel suppressed a smile.
“Now,
Miss, will you help me pick up and wash the dishes?”
Daniela's
resentment was too obvious. Nina looked at her and reluctantly
nodded. Daniela got up, slammed her napkin down, and picked up her
father's plate. Petra handed her the juice glass.
“Take
these right into the kitchen,” she said, pointing the way.
“I
know where it is. It's my house!”
Petra
carefully took Nina's plate and excused herself. Nina did a slow
burn through all this and looked at Miguel, who merely shrugged.
Julia
tried to make a call, then stopped herself. She checked her cell
phone then put it on the desk. Then she tried taking the torn pieces
of Arturo's old letters from the wastebasket. David came in before
leaving for work. He had fixed something in their computer system
first.
“My
love, I'm sorry that your father made last night so bad for you.”
“Mother,
it's not fair what he does. One day he's amiable and the next he's
looking to kill theh whole world.”
“In
know. His personality is a little explosive.”
“I
know. I wanted to placate him by agreeing to work with him to be
near him and I'm trying but now I don't know if that will work.”
“Be
patient with your father,” Julia told David. “Despite his
character, everything he does is for your good.”
“Good?
You think I feel good? Quite the contrary.”
“It's
going to take a while.”
“It's
going to take a lot more work on his part. Not to mention getting
into my business. When is he going to learn to trust me?”
“I'll
talk to him. Here's hoping I can get him to give you your space.”
“I
hope so.”
“You
trust me, don't you?”
“Mother,
all the trust in the world.”
“Then,
tell me the truth. I want to know. Do you and Regina Montenegro
have a relationship?”
“So
you want me to tell you the truth?”
“Yes.”
“OK,
the day you came to see me in Querétaro it was Regina you saw me
kissing.”
“Then,
what happened?”
“Nothing.
Afterward we ended it because of the conflicts between our
families.” Julia turned away and sighed. David touched her so she
would face him. “Listen to me,” he said. “Listen to me,
Mother. I love her very much. Really.”
“I
want... I think –”
“But
a few days later after we got back we decided to fight for out
relationship. To be accepted.”
“So
you're saying that you're still together?”
“Yes.
Mother, I'm asking you to keep this secret. Really. Please say
you'll help me.”
Justino
and his family were enjoying the seaside. He and his daughter gave
Maribel a shell necklace and put it on her at the breakfast table.
Luisita wanted to go for a swim and Maribel told her husband to go
with her. She needed to rest because she had a headache.
Monserrat
and Aldo arrived at the orphanage. The courtyard was empty. It
looked clean but a little shabby. Three young children ran past
them, screeching, which startled Aldo.
“Are
you sure this is it?” Monserrat asked him. She was equally ill at
ease. A woman appeared who obviously worked there.
“And
what can I do to help you?” she asked.
“Hello,”
Aldo said. “We're working on a news report on famous models and
we were told Consuelo Martinez was here since infancy.”
“Ay,
Consuelo,” the woman said with a smile. “Such a good girl.”
“Yes,
and now she's a beautiful woman. We'd be happy if you could tell us
something about her. Did she have visitors?”
“I
don't know,” she said, hesitating. “We're not authorized to give
out information about the children who lived here,” the woman said.
Really,
she should have asked for identification. Aldo may be clever, but
he's weak on follow-through. He would not make a good undercover man
since he didn't even bother to dress the part. Neither did
Monserrat.
Monserrat
nudged him.
“Well,
what we're looking for doesn't have to be strictly confidential.”
“I
don't know.”
“We
just want to know anything small,” Monserrat said with her fake
smile. “We promise not to take much of your time.”
“I
don't believe it. The architect on your project, the girl you're
suffering over, is Regina Montenegro?”
“Yes.
She and I have both suffered over this. In the end the only reason
we can't be together is all of you.”
“Yes,
that's true. Are you sure you won't reconsider?”
“No,
Mother, there is nothing to reconsider. She and I and our love are
real. We're going to be together no matter what happens.”
“Are
you sure, David?”
“Sure.
Of course I'm sure. Please help me with this. Look, Regina makes
me happy. I feel things I've never felt before in my life. Please,
Mother. I beg you.”
“Ay,
David,” Julia said.
“Mother
--”
“Very
well. The most important thing to me is your happiness. Do you
understand?” She smiled.
“Yes!”
They
hugged.
“Thank
you, thank you! You are my mother, the best woman in the world!”
They
kissed again and he was off to work. As he closed the door she sat
down and shook her head.
Petra
was dusting the drapes with a feather wand. Daniela was not going to
have a good day. She had spent her entire life with all her whims
being catered to by a mother who spoiled her rotten and servants who
did what they were told by her. No doubt at her mother's behest.
She took out her cell phone and started to text.
“Daniela,
it's time to work,” said Arturo, who had not yet left the house.
“Daddy,
this was a joke, wasn't it?”
“No.
Absolutely not.” He looked over her shoulder and called Petra.
“Yes,
sir?”
“Teach
her how to do everything. Washing floors, changing beds, and later
cleaning the bathrooms, the kitchen, and later it'll be time to teach
her how to cook.”
Daniela
avoided looking her father in the eye during this.
“Don't
worry, sir. I will teach her.” Petra smiled. She was hoping to
enjoy this.
“Obey
the rules and if you have questions, ask Petra,” Arturo said. He
kissed his errant daughter.
“Yes,
Daddy.”
“It's
for your own good.”
“Have
a good day, sir,” Petra said. Arturo's cell signaled a text
message and he checked it as he left.
I
received your letter an hour ago at the foundation.
He
smiled as he left.
“And
can we begin with the easiest way to dust all the furniture?”
“But
of course I will not do it.” Daniela sneered.
“You
know it would be worth your while to obey or you can't go out for two
weeks.”
Daniela
hated being bested by a mere servant. When Petra presented the
feather wand she snatched it with resentment. Also the dust rag.
Petra proceeded to instruct her. She was really going to earn her
day's pay for this.
After
Justino and Luisita had gone swimming Maribel carefully went into the
hotel. She painfully made her way to the nurse at the medical desk
and asked if she could help her get an injection. She said her
medications were in her room. As the nurse called the doctor's
office Maribel fainted. Maribel was brought to her room. The doctor
ordered her to stay in bed while the nurse prepared her injection.
He knew her condition was very serious based on the medications she
had with her. He wanted to talk to her family. She explained what
she knew of her condition and told him that all she wanted was to be
with her family until the end. He seemed to understand.
“And
how old was Consuelo when she arrived here?” Aldo asked.
“I
don't know. She was already here when I arrived.”
“Could
you check the records?”
“Of
course.”
They
entered the office and the woman opened the file drawer and pulled
out the appropriate folder. “Consuelo Martinez; here it is.”
Monserrat
smiled, showing how much lipstick she spent too much money on.
“You're
so nice. You know, I want to make a special donation to this place.”
She directed the woman away from the file drawer and pointed
outside. “I've been thinking that the garden could be fixed up to
be prettier, more elegant, add some sunflowers –”
This
managed to distract the social worker while Aldo went to the file
drawer to read the relevant documents.
“Maybe
some cages with little animals so the children can have live pets.”
“Oh,
little birds would be so nice for the children,” said the social
worker.
“I
imagine!”
“And
plant daisies?”
“Whatever
you like. You'll decide.”
Aldo
discovered something and could not restrain his glee.
“Look
at what this says about Consuelo!” The social worker heard him and
turned around.
“What
are you talking about?”
“Oh,
nothing. It's just that I found something marvelous. Found more
than we needed.”
“Really?”
“Lovely
things, and more!”
Monserrat
gave him the high sign behind the social worker's back.
“Good!”
They
were going to have a good laugh at her expense. That she would
probably lose her job over this mattered not one whit to them.
Eladio
was in his office at headquarters looking at his computer when Franco
entered to tell him there was a problem. There was a major protest
going on at a construction site. Protesters were preventing
demolition. They were apparently well organized and demanded a
meeting with the boss. Eladio tried to think of ways to negotiate
this problem so that the construction wouldn't fall behind schedule.
He sent Franco, but told him to get the company lawyer to go with
him. Franco nodded and left without questions or reservations.
Arturo
arrived at Julia's office.
“I
got here as fast as I could.”
“Thanks.”
“How
can I help you?”
“Remember
the last time you were here we talked about a lot of things, about
things that happened since we had last seen each other.”
“Yes,
I remember. You wanted to ask me something but you didn't get to
it.”
“Yes,
yes.”
“Julia,
ask whatever you want.”
“I
need you to do a DNA test.”
“Why?”
He was genuinely confused.
“Because
Eladio thinks David is your son.”
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Such a beautifully written recap with great attention to detail and promptly posted to boost! Thank you UA!
Gisela mentioned that a man toying with her daughter’s affection and trust was what led to the latter’s demise. I wonder whether she meant Eladio or her daughter’s husband whose murder landed her in prison? I wish we could get more information on Caridad.
Julia just had to walk into Eladio’s personal space, look him in the eyes and lightly touch his shoulder to diffuse the tension. The anger brewing inside him subsided almost instantly. There has been a few similar scenes that make me wonder: if only this woman were aware of the immense power she has on Eladio; if only she had put it to good use during the 25 years of their marriage, she could’ve moulded an entirely different man, spouse and father out of him... Or not. I can’t help asking myself this question though.
Arturo offering to help Julia when he can’t even help himself! Por favor, no me hagas reír! Sort out the gigantic mess your family situation has become then you can start sneaking around on your wife courting another man’s wife!
Nandicta :)
Gisela mentioned that a man toying with her daughter’s affection and trust was what led to the latter’s demise. I wonder whether she meant Eladio or her daughter’s husband whose murder landed her in prison? I wish we could get more information on Caridad.
Julia just had to walk into Eladio’s personal space, look him in the eyes and lightly touch his shoulder to diffuse the tension. The anger brewing inside him subsided almost instantly. There has been a few similar scenes that make me wonder: if only this woman were aware of the immense power she has on Eladio; if only she had put it to good use during the 25 years of their marriage, she could’ve moulded an entirely different man, spouse and father out of him... Or not. I can’t help asking myself this question though.
Arturo offering to help Julia when he can’t even help himself! Por favor, no me hagas reír! Sort out the gigantic mess your family situation has become then you can start sneaking around on your wife courting another man’s wife!
Nandicta :)
Permalink posted by 
: Tuesday, December 8, 2015 at 10:31:00 PM EST
: Tuesday, December 8, 2015 at 10:31:00 PM EST
Julia has no power over Eladio; he holds all the cards in their marriage. The only speck of power she can have is proving that David is his son. He is so afraid of that that he has refused all this time to get tested no matter how many times she has challenged him over this.
Someone mentioned it in the last discussion, but we know almost nothing of Eladio's backstory. We don't know if he was young when his parents died (because we don't know if he's telling the truth about that) and he has no brothers or sisters that we know of. Franco is his illegitimate son, but only Gisela and Caridad know that. He is insanely afraid that this will come out once Caridad is out of prison, which will happen shortly.
And after all these abusive years why would Julia want to stay with him? Once her father dies she can fly the coop.
Someone mentioned it in the last discussion, but we know almost nothing of Eladio's backstory. We don't know if he was young when his parents died (because we don't know if he's telling the truth about that) and he has no brothers or sisters that we know of. Franco is his illegitimate son, but only Gisela and Caridad know that. He is insanely afraid that this will come out once Caridad is out of prison, which will happen shortly.
And after all these abusive years why would Julia want to stay with him? Once her father dies she can fly the coop.
Great job, Urban. So detailed!
I don't think what Julia has is really power over Eladio. He controlled himself because it's convenient for him. He demands total obedience and has no problem using violence on his wife or sons if he thinks it will get him the result he wants. He knows Julia fears him. That's what her touching him to diffuse his anger is all about. She's scared of what he'll do to David. That fear is exactly what he wants. Part of his frustration with David is that he refuses to be intimidated by Eladio and doesn't back down. Note how Franco backed the heck down when Eladio grabbed hold of him after he mentioned Montse. He gets off on the fear.
I don't think what Julia has is really power over Eladio. He controlled himself because it's convenient for him. He demands total obedience and has no problem using violence on his wife or sons if he thinks it will get him the result he wants. He knows Julia fears him. That's what her touching him to diffuse his anger is all about. She's scared of what he'll do to David. That fear is exactly what he wants. Part of his frustration with David is that he refuses to be intimidated by Eladio and doesn't back down. Note how Franco backed the heck down when Eladio grabbed hold of him after he mentioned Montse. He gets off on the fear.
It was Dani's therapist who emailed Art and said one of the best things to help Dani with her problems is for her to keep occupied. Then Art mentioned that it was too late in the school year for her to return to university, and then Petra mentioned she had her hands full since the cook had left, and could use help until the new cook started.
Loved Dani's face. Ha! Not sure if this won't be more trouble than it's worth to Petra though. Like supervising the work of a slug.
Loved Dani's face. Ha! Not sure if this won't be more trouble than it's worth to Petra though. Like supervising the work of a slug.
I wonder what exactly Eladio has in mind to do if it is confirmed that David and Gina are an item? Tell David he's dating his sister? Have Gina bumped off? That was a definite threat he made.
Urban- Thank you for such a fabulous and detailed recap.
I was chuckling right along with Miguel and Regina when Artie said that Daniela had to help out with the housework. This should be good. But I pity the Montenegro's if Daniela gets put in charge of cooking them dinner. She probably can't even make toast.
The Ratt and Aldo- not liking where this is going with them digging into Consuelo's past. Nothing good can come out of that.
Ah, so that was The Ratt who Miguel was looking at on his computer. It happened so fast that I didn't get a chance to get a good look at who it was. I was able to read the captions and now they make sense.
Great cliffhanger. Can't wait until tomorrow night to see what happens next.
I was chuckling right along with Miguel and Regina when Artie said that Daniela had to help out with the housework. This should be good. But I pity the Montenegro's if Daniela gets put in charge of cooking them dinner. She probably can't even make toast.
The Ratt and Aldo- not liking where this is going with them digging into Consuelo's past. Nothing good can come out of that.
Ah, so that was The Ratt who Miguel was looking at on his computer. It happened so fast that I didn't get a chance to get a good look at who it was. I was able to read the captions and now they make sense.
Great cliffhanger. Can't wait until tomorrow night to see what happens next.
Mauricio, it wouldn't surprise me if Daniela tried to poison them. That little bitch has no conscience.
Thanks for your eloquent and detailed recap UA. ITA that Dani would try to poison her family as she has no conscience at all.
It looks like Cynderella was right and Maribel may not be with us that much longer. I keep thinking her husband, Justino, is doomed too, he works for Eladio, and Luisita will be with Francisco and Clara by the end.
Gisela is a troubling busy-body who is in big trouble when her daughter finds out what happened to Franco.
Yes Vivi, I'm very concerned about what the Ratt and Aldo found. It will be really disgusting if Connie ends up out on the street because of this mess and Erick remains in the house.
And poor Miguel, like Diana said yesterday, Art didn't need to tell all to his son. There had to be some type of way he could share information without telling his son he was an accident. Wow.
It looks like Cynderella was right and Maribel may not be with us that much longer. I keep thinking her husband, Justino, is doomed too, he works for Eladio, and Luisita will be with Francisco and Clara by the end.
Gisela is a troubling busy-body who is in big trouble when her daughter finds out what happened to Franco.
Yes Vivi, I'm very concerned about what the Ratt and Aldo found. It will be really disgusting if Connie ends up out on the street because of this mess and Erick remains in the house.
And poor Miguel, like Diana said yesterday, Art didn't need to tell all to his son. There had to be some type of way he could share information without telling his son he was an accident. Wow.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:20:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:20:00 AM EST
I agree that there had to have been a better way to tell Miguel about this. We've all agreed that Arturo didn't make good choices after that.
What Aldo and Monserrat found will not impact Miguel, Regina, (these two already know) or Arturo. Erick will use it as an excuse to file for divorce, I'm sure. Especially if Nina puts her two pesos in. She already hates Consuelo without knowing this. She is willing to accuse her of adultery so she can say that the baby isn't her grandchild. Vain bitch.
What Aldo and Monserrat found will not impact Miguel, Regina, (these two already know) or Arturo. Erick will use it as an excuse to file for divorce, I'm sure. Especially if Nina puts her two pesos in. She already hates Consuelo without knowing this. She is willing to accuse her of adultery so she can say that the baby isn't her grandchild. Vain bitch.
Not just an accident. But an accident, with a woman he didn't love, which prevented him from being with the woman he really loved, who moved on, which caused him to marry another woman he didn't love to be Mig's stepmom, who mistreated Mig his whole life. How that was supposed to be better than, I ignored and resented you because your birth caused the death of your beloved mother, I'm not sure.
I was waiting excitedly for this recap since your heads up yesterday. It's amazing!!
Best part of the episode, breakfast at the Montenegro family. Priceless. The look on Miguel's face just made me giggle. Maybe Daniela should think of some tennis shoes and loose jeans--all the better to clean with.
Eladio is one sick puppy. He may not be yelling any more, but his calm demeanor with his idiot attitude is even more menacing. I don't get Julia any more. She owes her father nothing, she is again seeing what Eladio is still capable of...now I'm worried in her constant intent to "please" or calm Eladio as if it's that important to have David inherit everything ( like he cares), she's going to spill the beans about he and Gina. She does, dead to me.
Off to work. Check in later.
Daisynjay
Best part of the episode, breakfast at the Montenegro family. Priceless. The look on Miguel's face just made me giggle. Maybe Daniela should think of some tennis shoes and loose jeans--all the better to clean with.
Eladio is one sick puppy. He may not be yelling any more, but his calm demeanor with his idiot attitude is even more menacing. I don't get Julia any more. She owes her father nothing, she is again seeing what Eladio is still capable of...now I'm worried in her constant intent to "please" or calm Eladio as if it's that important to have David inherit everything ( like he cares), she's going to spill the beans about he and Gina. She does, dead to me.
Off to work. Check in later.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 7:01:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 7:01:00 AM EST
By all the rules of novelas and opera we all know that Eladio and Arturo will find out about David and Regina sooner or later. I can't predict Arturo's reaction, but Eladio will do either or both of the following:
1. Use it to continue his insistence that David isn't his and is committing incest
2. Insist to David that he get information about the Montenegro family company.
Regina and David can easily disprove the first without a problem; a DNA test can demonstrate that they are not siblings. If they do this, however, there could be a more distant blood tie leading to another conflict.
Of course, if Julia and Arturo would tell this to David and Regina respectively, that could make them proactive about this, but that would be against cliche for a change. Maybe the writers will surprise us with that.
David will continue to refuse to use Regina this way. And she doesn't even work for her father, so she has no real access to that information.
I completely agree about Julia. She owes Humberto nothing except payback for his years of abuse. However, too many women in her situation endure this level of spousal abuse after having been abused by an equally nasty father because they don't know they don't have to. Now she endures it for David's sake, which David doesn't like.
1. Use it to continue his insistence that David isn't his and is committing incest
2. Insist to David that he get information about the Montenegro family company.
Regina and David can easily disprove the first without a problem; a DNA test can demonstrate that they are not siblings. If they do this, however, there could be a more distant blood tie leading to another conflict.
Of course, if Julia and Arturo would tell this to David and Regina respectively, that could make them proactive about this, but that would be against cliche for a change. Maybe the writers will surprise us with that.
David will continue to refuse to use Regina this way. And she doesn't even work for her father, so she has no real access to that information.
I completely agree about Julia. She owes Humberto nothing except payback for his years of abuse. However, too many women in her situation endure this level of spousal abuse after having been abused by an equally nasty father because they don't know they don't have to. Now she endures it for David's sake, which David doesn't like.
UA, your recap was sublime. Extraordinary. Again, your conversation translations are so greatly appreciated. You continually add another layer of depth and dimension.
"“Of course,” David said. He knew enough now to recognize this as the manipulation it was. Not just of his mother, but of himself". Your insights and comments are always thoughtful and on point.
So many interesting comments about Julia. I believe she stays in her present situation only because she loves fiercely and protectively (David) and because she sees no other choice in fulfilling her obligation (Humberto). She has forsaken her happiness for the sake of those she loves. It's typical, protective behavior for a mother and daughter. What is atypical is having to endure a monster of a husband.
Vivi, yes, Eladio definitely will retaliate once David and Regina get together. His not so subtle threat was chilling.
Monserrat continues to repel. What a vile human being. I continue to search long and hard but I cannot fine one thing that is remotely kind or appealing about her. If she hurts Consuelo (further) in any way, I will be so upset. I know there is more to come though. Karen, I'm worried about Connie coming to physical harm. I'm not sure if Monse knows Connie is pregnant or not (?)
Petra is becoming my favorite character. Just loved her showing Dani what hard work is. I might have imagined it but I thought I saw the actress (Dani) suppressing a smile. Those scenes were fun to watch and a relief from all the madness.
I was looking for something, anything, to make me smile and you provided it with one of your translations UA. “Maybe some cages with little animals so the children can have live pets.” Of course! What a novel idea! Live pets are so much more fun than dead ones, aren't they? :)
Thanks again UA!
Diana
"“Of course,” David said. He knew enough now to recognize this as the manipulation it was. Not just of his mother, but of himself". Your insights and comments are always thoughtful and on point.
So many interesting comments about Julia. I believe she stays in her present situation only because she loves fiercely and protectively (David) and because she sees no other choice in fulfilling her obligation (Humberto). She has forsaken her happiness for the sake of those she loves. It's typical, protective behavior for a mother and daughter. What is atypical is having to endure a monster of a husband.
Vivi, yes, Eladio definitely will retaliate once David and Regina get together. His not so subtle threat was chilling.
Monserrat continues to repel. What a vile human being. I continue to search long and hard but I cannot fine one thing that is remotely kind or appealing about her. If she hurts Consuelo (further) in any way, I will be so upset. I know there is more to come though. Karen, I'm worried about Connie coming to physical harm. I'm not sure if Monse knows Connie is pregnant or not (?)
Petra is becoming my favorite character. Just loved her showing Dani what hard work is. I might have imagined it but I thought I saw the actress (Dani) suppressing a smile. Those scenes were fun to watch and a relief from all the madness.
I was looking for something, anything, to make me smile and you provided it with one of your translations UA. “Maybe some cages with little animals so the children can have live pets.” Of course! What a novel idea! Live pets are so much more fun than dead ones, aren't they? :)
Thanks again UA!
Diana
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:18:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:18:00 AM EST
Awesome tone UA and thanks
"You can't tell me what I can or can't do"
Nina almost got it right, to avoid snappy nips during lunch at IHop you don't wear the same dress back to back even if it is one of a kind but she made the larger misstep, I've seen her same outfit worn by transgender cabaret singers in Bangkok.
Art will never win father of the year but I applaud wanting to give Daniela structure and a work ethic however he's about a decade too late, his intent is to humiliate.
Speaking of Daniela. Though spoiled rotten and a life of the party girl I don't see a self promoting sex tape about to smack Art up side his head.
Art the whiteknight coming to Julia's rescue causes more problems for her than it will solve. This isn't love but a fight over chattel.
What difference does it make where Connie came from? I would counsel her to write her autobiography.
"You can't tell me what I can or can't do"
Nina almost got it right, to avoid snappy nips during lunch at IHop you don't wear the same dress back to back even if it is one of a kind but she made the larger misstep, I've seen her same outfit worn by transgender cabaret singers in Bangkok.
Art will never win father of the year but I applaud wanting to give Daniela structure and a work ethic however he's about a decade too late, his intent is to humiliate.
Speaking of Daniela. Though spoiled rotten and a life of the party girl I don't see a self promoting sex tape about to smack Art up side his head.
Art the whiteknight coming to Julia's rescue causes more problems for her than it will solve. This isn't love but a fight over chattel.
What difference does it make where Connie came from? I would counsel her to write her autobiography.
Nina almost got it right, to avoid snappy nips during lunch at IHop you don't wear the same dress back to back even if it is one of a kind but she made the larger misstep, I've seen her same outfit worn by transgender cabaret singers in Bangkok
Love that! She also never learned that it is seriously declasse to point out such things.
I am wondering whether Arturo isn't also attempting to instill some respect for the staff by forcing his brat to learn their work. Or to understand that she needs to finish school so she is qualified to do something better. Maybe he also hopes that this will drive her back to the campus.
Not that this will work, of course, because Nina will undo it all with her "With your beauty you can marry more money than your father makes."
As for what difference Consuelo's origin makes? None, to ant reasonable human being. I think most people know she grew up in an orphanage. That she was rescued from a brothel as a baby or toddler shouldn't make a difference either and it won't to Miguel, Regina, or Arturo. But Nina will make something of it, you can bet boxes of Godiva on that.
Love that! She also never learned that it is seriously declasse to point out such things.
I am wondering whether Arturo isn't also attempting to instill some respect for the staff by forcing his brat to learn their work. Or to understand that she needs to finish school so she is qualified to do something better. Maybe he also hopes that this will drive her back to the campus.
Not that this will work, of course, because Nina will undo it all with her "With your beauty you can marry more money than your father makes."
As for what difference Consuelo's origin makes? None, to ant reasonable human being. I think most people know she grew up in an orphanage. That she was rescued from a brothel as a baby or toddler shouldn't make a difference either and it won't to Miguel, Regina, or Arturo. But Nina will make something of it, you can bet boxes of Godiva on that.
Thanks so much for the wonderful recap, Urban. I especially enjoyed your prologue today. Like Mauricio, I didn't quite catch what Miguel was looking at on his laptop. Thanks for filling in the gap.
Nandicta, welcome to the Patio (of Lowered Expectations)! How lucky for us that your telenovela-watching converged with ours on precisely this wonderfully overblown show:)
I, too, was struck by Julia's lion-taming gesture (when she stepped into Eladio's space and put her hand on his chest). It seemed quite Nina-esque to me, though Nina works with big, seductive smooches and Julia with delicate, oh-so-ladylike touches. Not that either approach is working particularly well these days...
Nandicta, welcome to the Patio (of Lowered Expectations)! How lucky for us that your telenovela-watching converged with ours on precisely this wonderfully overblown show:)
I, too, was struck by Julia's lion-taming gesture (when she stepped into Eladio's space and put her hand on his chest). It seemed quite Nina-esque to me, though Nina works with big, seductive smooches and Julia with delicate, oh-so-ladylike touches. Not that either approach is working particularly well these days...
Haven't seen this yet but wanted to compliment you on that fabulous prologue/intro and picture. This isn't just a recap, it's a work of art. You must have spent hours and hours on it UA. You are really too good to us. Had to laugh at the "not worth more than a half bowl of frijoles" quip about dear Nina.
Looking forward to watching it sometime today, in between Petra-like chores and teaching. Wouldn't want to have to try and supervise Daniela. Worse than working alone!
Thanks for always going above and beyond, UA. We're all getting quite spoiled.
Looking forward to watching it sometime today, in between Petra-like chores and teaching. Wouldn't want to have to try and supervise Daniela. Worse than working alone!
Thanks for always going above and beyond, UA. We're all getting quite spoiled.
Tofie- "This isn't love but a fight over chattel." Never did that seem more true than when Art told Gina that Eladio "stole" something from him. Excuse me! A woman can't be "stolen," and we all know he "lost" her of his own accord when he impregnated and married another woman. Get over yourself, Art. Eladio might be a jerk, criminal, abuser, even a killer, but the fact that he swooped in when Art messed up to woo Julia, just means he knows a good opportunity when he sees it.
Bravo Vivi!
Excellent comments...
Diana
Excellent comments...
Diana
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 11:51:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 11:51:00 AM EST
I don't know that Miguel could grow closer to Arturo and not find out the truth about his origins.
Miguel knows he has been rejected by Arturo his entire life for some reason and called him out on it.
Arturo might as well have told Miguel what Miguel already knows. Miguel is bright & when he finds out about Arturo & Julia he'll be able to put together a time table that will tell him what happened. Arturo might as well tell him now, because I definitely can see Eladio telling him.
Miguel knows he has been rejected by Arturo his entire life for some reason and called him out on it.
Arturo might as well have told Miguel what Miguel already knows. Miguel is bright & when he finds out about Arturo & Julia he'll be able to put together a time table that will tell him what happened. Arturo might as well tell him now, because I definitely can see Eladio telling him.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 11:53:00 AM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 11:53:00 AM EST
Vivi, exactly the statement I was thinking of when I made my comment. Art is behaving like a butthurt boy moaning about someone using a toy he cast aside. The whole ownership thing makes me froth at the mouth even as it extends to the children.
Yes, Vivi...that bothered the daylights out of me when Arturo made the comment on "stole" regarding Julia. Hello, dunderhead, you are the one who went and slept with someone else and got them pregnant. Eladio didn't "steal" anything. At that point, to believe Julia, she married Eladio willingly as pay-back.
Come to think about it, Arturo might have been more like Erick back in the day then we are meant to believe. But suffice to say, he needs to lay that screw up firmly at his own feet. I'm starting to wonder, after that comment, if he didn't go all "I'm the boss' son" on Eladio after he married Julia, making his work life miserable, Eladio leaves and that's when it all went to hell and a hand-basket with this feud. They both went all alpha-male and the rest is history.
Daisynjay
Come to think about it, Arturo might have been more like Erick back in the day then we are meant to believe. But suffice to say, he needs to lay that screw up firmly at his own feet. I'm starting to wonder, after that comment, if he didn't go all "I'm the boss' son" on Eladio after he married Julia, making his work life miserable, Eladio leaves and that's when it all went to hell and a hand-basket with this feud. They both went all alpha-male and the rest is history.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 12:26:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 12:26:00 PM EST
Daisynjay- I'm sure when Art and Eladio worked together there was tension, but it seems the reason Eladio left Montenegro was because he committed some kind of fraud, and that was before the whole Julia thing.
What a great recap Urban---you never seem to miss even a single line. Excellent, simply excellent.
Good one David---You've got Franco for your low tricks. Count me out on that stuff.
You must be the reincarnation of Caligula.
Daniela hated being bested by a mere servant. I myself absolutely loved it but I don't think for a minute that Daniela will even attempt to do a good job. I also don't think or believe that Daniela has ever done a good job with anything. Well, maybe at partying.
What does Consuelo's childhood have to do with her in the here and now as a grown woman?
What will Caligula do when he finds out the truth about Regina and David? Whatever it, it won't be pleasant.
can't wait for tonight.
the gringo
Good one David---You've got Franco for your low tricks. Count me out on that stuff.
You must be the reincarnation of Caligula.
Daniela hated being bested by a mere servant. I myself absolutely loved it but I don't think for a minute that Daniela will even attempt to do a good job. I also don't think or believe that Daniela has ever done a good job with anything. Well, maybe at partying.
What does Consuelo's childhood have to do with her in the here and now as a grown woman?
What will Caligula do when he finds out the truth about Regina and David? Whatever it, it won't be pleasant.
can't wait for tonight.
the gringo
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 12:34:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 12:34:00 PM EST
David/Eladio/Franco is the 2015 repeat of the Arturo/Daddy Montenegro/Eladio situation back in 1990:
Eladio (Franco) was kissing Daddy Montenegro's ass (Eladio), only to have Arturo (David) reap the benefits.
Eladio committed some sort of fraud against Montenegro Inc. and was put out. I'm willing to bet history will repeat itself on Eladio's side with Franco committing some sort of fraud. Arturo's already had his repeat with Erick.
Ordinarily, Consuelo's childhood would not matter. It will not matter to Miguel, Regina or Arturo. It WILL matter to Nina, Erick & Daniela. Nina is desperate to be accepted as a high class lady; she's not and she knows she's not and she knows actual high class ladies know she's not. That's why she got all hot and bothered when Julia read her for filth in the middle of the nail salon for being "low class."
So if Nina is trying to perpetrate like she is a lady of the manor instead of a tramp on the come up, the LAST thing she wants in her family is another low class woman (Consuelo) on the scene. Too much of a reminder of what Nina is NOT.
Let me backtrack a couple of episodes to what Nina said to Dani about Consuelo's baby: Mama's baby, daddy's maybe.... makes me wonder if one or more of Montenegro children are in fact not Arturo's kids.
I'm willing to bet Erick & Dani are NOT Arturo's kids. Hey...mama's baby...daddy's maybe...
Age order of Montenegro / Gomez Luna children:
Miguel
David
Erick
Regina
Dani
Eladio (Franco) was kissing Daddy Montenegro's ass (Eladio), only to have Arturo (David) reap the benefits.
Eladio committed some sort of fraud against Montenegro Inc. and was put out. I'm willing to bet history will repeat itself on Eladio's side with Franco committing some sort of fraud. Arturo's already had his repeat with Erick.
Ordinarily, Consuelo's childhood would not matter. It will not matter to Miguel, Regina or Arturo. It WILL matter to Nina, Erick & Daniela. Nina is desperate to be accepted as a high class lady; she's not and she knows she's not and she knows actual high class ladies know she's not. That's why she got all hot and bothered when Julia read her for filth in the middle of the nail salon for being "low class."
So if Nina is trying to perpetrate like she is a lady of the manor instead of a tramp on the come up, the LAST thing she wants in her family is another low class woman (Consuelo) on the scene. Too much of a reminder of what Nina is NOT.
Let me backtrack a couple of episodes to what Nina said to Dani about Consuelo's baby: Mama's baby, daddy's maybe.... makes me wonder if one or more of Montenegro children are in fact not Arturo's kids.
I'm willing to bet Erick & Dani are NOT Arturo's kids. Hey...mama's baby...daddy's maybe...
Age order of Montenegro / Gomez Luna children:
Miguel
David
Erick
Regina
Dani
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:06:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:06:00 PM EST
First, a big thank you to Cynderella for Monday's very entertaining recap and Urban for last night's superlative rendition. The contrast in style is such that I had to wonder if Cyn and UA are watching the same telenovela!! One was a send-up of the Hatfield and the McCoy feud, the other the brutal intrigue of Imperial Rome. But it's all good, folks.
Sorry, but I just can't watch PyP and consider it a complex, dramatic Mexican retelling of Family Feud. These characters are two dimensional, portrayed by actors, acting their hearts out for the love of acting (and a paycheck). They can only be as good as the writers and directors let them be. (When compared to YoNo, it's no contest.)
However, the recaps and comments keep me watching in spite of myself.
Nandicta:) Welcome to this enigmatic spot in cyberspace. What a wonderfully clear new voice and perspective you add to this virtual reality. I am in awe of your facility with the English language. You have a better command of it than I, a native speaker for some decades now. Look forward to many more of your comments.
Sorry, but I just can't watch PyP and consider it a complex, dramatic Mexican retelling of Family Feud. These characters are two dimensional, portrayed by actors, acting their hearts out for the love of acting (and a paycheck). They can only be as good as the writers and directors let them be. (When compared to YoNo, it's no contest.)
However, the recaps and comments keep me watching in spite of myself.
Nandicta:) Welcome to this enigmatic spot in cyberspace. What a wonderfully clear new voice and perspective you add to this virtual reality. I am in awe of your facility with the English language. You have a better command of it than I, a native speaker for some decades now. Look forward to many more of your comments.
I guess the writers may not have decided whether Erick is Arturo's or not because they haven't given us any information on how long Arturo and Nina knew each other before they were married. If they knew each other for six months before getting married and were sweating up the sheets for most of that time who knows whether she was seeing someone else? Otherwise she would have been an idiot to get knocked up by someone else from an affair that started right after the honeymoon.
Based on standard gold-digger behavior it's Daniela whom we should suspect of not being Arturo's child.
However, if both turn out to not be Arturo's and only Miguel and Regina are, it seems to even things up with Eladio, who has two sons (that we know of).
The irony of Consuelo's having been born to a whore (who may turn up eventually) is that she herself isn't one. Monserrat is, although not in the usual sense.
Based on standard gold-digger behavior it's Daniela whom we should suspect of not being Arturo's child.
However, if both turn out to not be Arturo's and only Miguel and Regina are, it seems to even things up with Eladio, who has two sons (that we know of).
The irony of Consuelo's having been born to a whore (who may turn up eventually) is that she herself isn't one. Monserrat is, although not in the usual sense.
So many interesting insights from everyone. I do concur that Eladio is exerting pressure on Julia using the only two leverages he has: her son and her father. These two are the source of his power over her, as well as the fact that Julia doesn't know how to be anything else but a victim. She grew up with a docile, submissive and abused mother, she never finished her studies or had a job, as far as we know there is no positive strong female presence in her life that she can take inspiration from. So really, she can't be expected to be something she doesn't know or has any experience of. I still maintain that had she:
1)allowed Eladio to be something else other than a device for her revenge against Arturo;
2) not let Arturo into her house a month or so before her wedding to Eladio; and
3) not spent 20+ years rejecting her husband, pining overtly for her cheating ex-fiancé and doing nothing to dispel once and for all Eladio's doubts over his paternity; things could have been way different for the Gomez-Lunas.
As I said yesterday and UA reiterated today, we know very little about Eladio's background other than his supposedly difficult upbringing in poverty, his dubious social ascent, his controlling and explosive temper which to me screams insecurity and his possessiveness because of the humiliating rejection he endures daily from the woman he adored for over two decades. Moreover, Anon207 just highlighted a crucial point the Eladio / Arturo/ Montenegro Sr drama that happen over 25 years ago is being replayed with the Franco / David / Eladio trio. We don't know how haughty Montenegro Sr could have been with young Eladio or how the latter must have felt being discarded when the heir (young Arturo) showed up. Maybe Eladio is emulating what he learnt from Montenegro Sr, with the addition of his bitterness, hatred and resentment over the years turning him into the boss / godfather from Hell. I'm not defending Eladio's actions or the way he turned out, I'm just trying to understand. As Cynderella rightly pointed out yesterday: " If we don't defend the defenseless, who else will? Yes, they are bad, but I always look for the underlying reason".
1)allowed Eladio to be something else other than a device for her revenge against Arturo;
2) not let Arturo into her house a month or so before her wedding to Eladio; and
3) not spent 20+ years rejecting her husband, pining overtly for her cheating ex-fiancé and doing nothing to dispel once and for all Eladio's doubts over his paternity; things could have been way different for the Gomez-Lunas.
As I said yesterday and UA reiterated today, we know very little about Eladio's background other than his supposedly difficult upbringing in poverty, his dubious social ascent, his controlling and explosive temper which to me screams insecurity and his possessiveness because of the humiliating rejection he endures daily from the woman he adored for over two decades. Moreover, Anon207 just highlighted a crucial point the Eladio / Arturo/ Montenegro Sr drama that happen over 25 years ago is being replayed with the Franco / David / Eladio trio. We don't know how haughty Montenegro Sr could have been with young Eladio or how the latter must have felt being discarded when the heir (young Arturo) showed up. Maybe Eladio is emulating what he learnt from Montenegro Sr, with the addition of his bitterness, hatred and resentment over the years turning him into the boss / godfather from Hell. I'm not defending Eladio's actions or the way he turned out, I'm just trying to understand. As Cynderella rightly pointed out yesterday: " If we don't defend the defenseless, who else will? Yes, they are bad, but I always look for the underlying reason".
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:38:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 1:38:00 PM EST
NovelaMaven - Thank you for the warm welcome and for the great recaps you delighted us with these past weeks! You had me laughing out loud many times and I always look forward to reading your work!
Anita - Many thanks indeed for your welcoming and encouraging words! You're too kind! I couldn't agree more with you regarding the two-dimensional characters and simplistic writing. The actors are doing a stellar job with an average script and pretty bad direction (Salvador Garcini has become my "Mejía" when in comes to directing. MEPS, CS 2009, STuD, AV. He seems particularly fond of overacting, shouting and dramatic Zoolander posing!) I never saw the PyP 1988 version so I can't compare, but many commenters here have demonstrated time and again just how flawed the premise of the story is. There exists a lot of plot holes and suspended lines of thought from the writing team. Maybe they are giving themselves a little wriggle room for if and when they decide to do a "switcheroo" or an "unexpected ending" or some other gimmick for shock value / ratings.
Anita - Many thanks indeed for your welcoming and encouraging words! You're too kind! I couldn't agree more with you regarding the two-dimensional characters and simplistic writing. The actors are doing a stellar job with an average script and pretty bad direction (Salvador Garcini has become my "Mejía" when in comes to directing. MEPS, CS 2009, STuD, AV. He seems particularly fond of overacting, shouting and dramatic Zoolander posing!) I never saw the PyP 1988 version so I can't compare, but many commenters here have demonstrated time and again just how flawed the premise of the story is. There exists a lot of plot holes and suspended lines of thought from the writing team. Maybe they are giving themselves a little wriggle room for if and when they decide to do a "switcheroo" or an "unexpected ending" or some other gimmick for shock value / ratings.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:05:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:05:00 PM EST
UA - Flashbacks involves having to cast younger lookalikes and the producer can't be bothered with the hassle or the expense it seems! Shame, though :(
This is still a good TN as far as I'm concerned because with a little "supension of disbelief" we get to enjoy the ride and relish the character analyses and speculations we engage in here after every episode. It hasn't gone Mejía yet or, worse, Latoodle! (I couldn't finish the CI DVD! I was tearing my hair out in the middle of Disc 3! Aaargh!)
I think that the recaps and comments I've read on Caray Caray! have been way more clever and sophisticated than any TN writer could come up with. You guys are a treasure! Cynderella's "epiphany" about Justino, maybe being a potential "replacement Franco" for Gisela to present to Caridad, is a case in point. It justifies the presence of the WTF Family and provides an interesting plot point. However, I doubt it would even occur to the writers, so I stand by my initial theory, the WTF Family is PyP's version of the grocery store couple of LQNPA. And what will happen when Maribel (finally) kicks the bucket? They'll have Justino fall for Clara and the Justino/Clara/Francisco love triangle will be the choice "filler material" for a good chunk of the TN! No spoiler here, just speculating. My "TN filler nonsense" radar has become finely attuned! :D
This is still a good TN as far as I'm concerned because with a little "supension of disbelief" we get to enjoy the ride and relish the character analyses and speculations we engage in here after every episode. It hasn't gone Mejía yet or, worse, Latoodle! (I couldn't finish the CI DVD! I was tearing my hair out in the middle of Disc 3! Aaargh!)
I think that the recaps and comments I've read on Caray Caray! have been way more clever and sophisticated than any TN writer could come up with. You guys are a treasure! Cynderella's "epiphany" about Justino, maybe being a potential "replacement Franco" for Gisela to present to Caridad, is a case in point. It justifies the presence of the WTF Family and provides an interesting plot point. However, I doubt it would even occur to the writers, so I stand by my initial theory, the WTF Family is PyP's version of the grocery store couple of LQNPA. And what will happen when Maribel (finally) kicks the bucket? They'll have Justino fall for Clara and the Justino/Clara/Francisco love triangle will be the choice "filler material" for a good chunk of the TN! No spoiler here, just speculating. My "TN filler nonsense" radar has become finely attuned! :D
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:19:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:19:00 PM EST
Problem with Julia and the David leverage is Julia hands it to Eladio on a platter by encouraging David to resume a relationship with a father that rejects him. I think Julia is just trying to make a point to Eladio that David is his son and that alone will propagate butterflies and lollipops from stone making her life easy. This she does while setting up secret rendezvous with her husbands nemesis for an DNA test and hasn't thought through how she will get a sample from her son. Oh yea, that's gonna go over well but does not prove Eladio is the father even with a negative result from Art. How hard would it be to grab a hair from a man she lives with?
Julia married Eladio out of spite but Art didn't play along so for 20 years Julia hasn't any satisfaction for the boneheaded decision. She should be pleased but call the tête-à-tête what is is, a victory dance. Revel in it, work up a good sweat, drag Art through glass but don't poke your finger in the eye of Eladio and whine when it blows up cause I ain't listening.
Julia married Eladio out of spite but Art didn't play along so for 20 years Julia hasn't any satisfaction for the boneheaded decision. She should be pleased but call the tête-à-tête what is is, a victory dance. Revel in it, work up a good sweat, drag Art through glass but don't poke your finger in the eye of Eladio and whine when it blows up cause I ain't listening.
As far as Nina is concerned, the information we've been given so far is that Nina & Arturo had a quickie marriage in the United States.
We know Nina is very much into appearances and fronting (ex---> Regina's wedding), so why no grand wedding?
Nina sealed the deal quickly with Arturo using a child, I feel certain of that. Which child she used (Miguel or Erick) remains in question.
We know Nina is very much into appearances and fronting (ex---> Regina's wedding), so why no grand wedding?
Nina sealed the deal quickly with Arturo using a child, I feel certain of that. Which child she used (Miguel or Erick) remains in question.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:26:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:26:00 PM EST
Wow..so many interesting comments while I was at work.
Nandicta..Eladio reminds me a bit of Manuel in Amor Real who was rejected by his rich father because he was a bastard . The priest helped him learn to read and write , and he became a doctor. However, he had a violent temper. When he discovered that the woman he married planned to run off with her lover, he became harsh and abusive to her.However, he was redeemed in the end. Eladio hasn't killed anyone that we know of, so could he be redeemed? As far as I am concerned, Art is not a galan.
Nandicta..You are a fascinating person. May I ask what field you are in and what degree you earned in Scotland? I think that you would love Outlander if you love Scotland. I would like to travel there some day. You can actually do a tour of the places where Outlander takes place.
Nandicta..Eladio reminds me a bit of Manuel in Amor Real who was rejected by his rich father because he was a bastard . The priest helped him learn to read and write , and he became a doctor. However, he had a violent temper. When he discovered that the woman he married planned to run off with her lover, he became harsh and abusive to her.However, he was redeemed in the end. Eladio hasn't killed anyone that we know of, so could he be redeemed? As far as I am concerned, Art is not a galan.
Nandicta..You are a fascinating person. May I ask what field you are in and what degree you earned in Scotland? I think that you would love Outlander if you love Scotland. I would like to travel there some day. You can actually do a tour of the places where Outlander takes place.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:35:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 2:35:00 PM EST
What Julia should have done about the DNA business is talk to a lawyer. She could take strands out of Eladio's hairbrush (I know this isn't how it works) and swipe a drinking glass he used and take an oath before a judge. She can later do the same with David.
No matter how this happens, though, Eladio will still not believe it. He is seriously unhinged.
No matter how this happens, though, Eladio will still not believe it. He is seriously unhinged.
"Frank Smith" is dead. Whether he died of natural causes, if somebody else whacked him or if Eladio whacked him remains to be seen.
I think Eladio could be redeemed if he stopped focusing on Arturo. Heck, let Julia go and find somebody who REALLY loves him.
I think Eladio could be redeemed if he stopped focusing on Arturo. Heck, let Julia go and find somebody who REALLY loves him.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 3:16:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 3:16:00 PM EST
In trying to figure out Nina's desperation to keep things looking perfect and also keeping Arturo from kicking her to the curb, did I miss more of her background than we were given at the start of this in the previews. Former actress, not that great, lands rich guy and now uses those same skill sets to keep up appearances.
Do we know her parentage or bakcground? I missed some early episode pieces, so just wondered.
And thanks all for the clarificatin Eladio committed fraud when at Montenegro to get himself booted.
Daisynjay
Do we know her parentage or bakcground? I missed some early episode pieces, so just wondered.
And thanks all for the clarificatin Eladio committed fraud when at Montenegro to get himself booted.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 3:17:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 3:17:00 PM EST
There was no other information about Nina other than that. We have no clue whether that is her real name, whether she has living relatives who will come out of the woodwork, or anything else.
Frank Smith is Eladio's alleged mentor/sponsor or whatever after he was bounced from the Montenegro company. We have never seen him nor do we know whether any of this is true.
Frank Smith is Eladio's alleged mentor/sponsor or whatever after he was bounced from the Montenegro company. We have never seen him nor do we know whether any of this is true.
UA...I forgot to say thanks for that excellent recap.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 4:45:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 4:45:00 PM EST
Thanks, Urban. Terrific recap.
Enjoyed all the comments. Caridad says she didn't kill her husband. Eladio wants to keep Caridad in prison. My guess is Eladio either killed the husband or knows who did.
Francisco had a cough. Don't know if I should be worried or if they just didn't have time for a re-take of his scene.
Enjoyed all the comments. Caridad says she didn't kill her husband. Eladio wants to keep Caridad in prison. My guess is Eladio either killed the husband or knows who did.
Francisco had a cough. Don't know if I should be worried or if they just didn't have time for a re-take of his scene.
Tofie - Your post at 2:21 captures exactly my sentiment about the game Julia has been playing of late.
Vivi, Tofie and Daisyjay - I too was exasperated by Arturo telling his daughter that Eladio “stole” something from him, something that didn’t belong to him. I also felt there was a tinge of classism in his comment; as if this old “criado” (servant) of his had no business marrying above his station. This may have added insult to injury. (N.B.: Eladio is “nouveau riche” and wouldn't have been able to marry Aristocratic/ Old Money Julia had he not settled her father’s gambling debts).
Furthermore, for over two decades, every time Arturo gets the upper hand in some business deal, Eladio always brings him down a couple of pegs by reminding him that he (Eladio) has already won a long time ago because he married the woman Arturo so foolishly let go and could never ever have. That’s also why, come to think of it now, a few episodes ago Arturo felt so vindicated when Julia confessed to him that she and Eladio have always been an unhappy “pretend” couple. He was so pleased with himself when he made this revelation to Agustín later! And now with this whole DNA business, he will continue reveling in Schadenfreude, “el muy desgraciado”! ( Can you tell I don’t like Arturo?)
Susanlynn - I’m really touched by your enthusiastic welcome and your kind words. Many thanks indeed!
You’ve made a very interesting point by highlighting the similarity between those two volatile yet fascinating characters! It really got me thinking... Eladio could very well be how Manuel would’ve turned out in an alternate story where he would’ve had to endure 25 years of Matilde rejecting him and rubbing her love of a cheating Adolfo in his face; an Adolfo who also happened to be Manuel’s main business competitor and who had the chutzpah to visit Matilde (in her bedroom?) a few weeks before her wedding! Yep, I can totally picture that! Instead of “Amor Real”, we would have had “Amor Venenoso”... I mean “Amor Patético”... I mean “Pasión y Poder”! :D
OT for Susanlynn - To answer your question, the degree I got in Scotland was a BA in International Business and Marketing. I worked in Marketing/Communications in the mid to late Noughties, but I left the field in 2010 to pursue Masters degrees in Sustainable Development and in Climate & Energy Policy. I’m presently caring for my ill mother. She’s doing a lot better now and I get to keep her company while I occupy my free time with preparing the outline of a PhD proposal (in the most excruciatingly slow fashion), procrastinating (I’ve turned it into an art) and watching TNs (I take extensive notes to convince myself that my shameless ogling and my taste for the over-the-top storylines are in fact a language learning endeavor). Thanks again for your recommendation to watch Outlander and I really hope you get to visit Scotland very soon - maybe in 2016!
Vivi, Tofie and Daisyjay - I too was exasperated by Arturo telling his daughter that Eladio “stole” something from him, something that didn’t belong to him. I also felt there was a tinge of classism in his comment; as if this old “criado” (servant) of his had no business marrying above his station. This may have added insult to injury. (N.B.: Eladio is “nouveau riche” and wouldn't have been able to marry Aristocratic/ Old Money Julia had he not settled her father’s gambling debts).
Furthermore, for over two decades, every time Arturo gets the upper hand in some business deal, Eladio always brings him down a couple of pegs by reminding him that he (Eladio) has already won a long time ago because he married the woman Arturo so foolishly let go and could never ever have. That’s also why, come to think of it now, a few episodes ago Arturo felt so vindicated when Julia confessed to him that she and Eladio have always been an unhappy “pretend” couple. He was so pleased with himself when he made this revelation to Agustín later! And now with this whole DNA business, he will continue reveling in Schadenfreude, “el muy desgraciado”! ( Can you tell I don’t like Arturo?)
Susanlynn - I’m really touched by your enthusiastic welcome and your kind words. Many thanks indeed!
You’ve made a very interesting point by highlighting the similarity between those two volatile yet fascinating characters! It really got me thinking... Eladio could very well be how Manuel would’ve turned out in an alternate story where he would’ve had to endure 25 years of Matilde rejecting him and rubbing her love of a cheating Adolfo in his face; an Adolfo who also happened to be Manuel’s main business competitor and who had the chutzpah to visit Matilde (in her bedroom?) a few weeks before her wedding! Yep, I can totally picture that! Instead of “Amor Real”, we would have had “Amor Venenoso”... I mean “Amor Patético”... I mean “Pasión y Poder”! :D
OT for Susanlynn - To answer your question, the degree I got in Scotland was a BA in International Business and Marketing. I worked in Marketing/Communications in the mid to late Noughties, but I left the field in 2010 to pursue Masters degrees in Sustainable Development and in Climate & Energy Policy. I’m presently caring for my ill mother. She’s doing a lot better now and I get to keep her company while I occupy my free time with preparing the outline of a PhD proposal (in the most excruciatingly slow fashion), procrastinating (I’ve turned it into an art) and watching TNs (I take extensive notes to convince myself that my shameless ogling and my taste for the over-the-top storylines are in fact a language learning endeavor). Thanks again for your recommendation to watch Outlander and I really hope you get to visit Scotland very soon - maybe in 2016!
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:04:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:04:00 PM EST
Niecie - I spaced out during some of Caridad’s scenes (especially the ones where she was alone sniveling and shaking those flimsy prison bars) so I don’t remember her saying she didn’t kill her husband. Thanks for the reminder! Eladio could have had a hand in her imprisonment or he could’ve just taken advantage of her situation to take custody of toddler Franco. In any case, Gisela’s comment in this episode, blaming men’s deceit of naive women as the reason behind her daughter's demise, really piqued my curiosity. Maybe she meant Eladio? Maybe she was his Montserrat way back when, minus the garish makeup, stiff bob and whoring ways. Was Caridad Pre or Post-Julia? So many questions, so few answers! Oh well, I guess we’ll know soon enough!
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:10:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:10:00 PM EST
Anon 207 - "I think Eladio could be redeemed if he stopped focusing on Arturo. Heck, let Julia go and find somebody who REALLY loves him."
Thank you! I'm rooting for this as my favorite ending, provided that Eladio hasn't killed anybody, por supuesto! Please pull a chair and join Tofie and me in the "Bad Boy Eladio" table! Weird tie knots, gold fountain pens and "whatever that crap Eladio sprays in his mouth" entirely optional!
Thank you! I'm rooting for this as my favorite ending, provided that Eladio hasn't killed anybody, por supuesto! Please pull a chair and join Tofie and me in the "Bad Boy Eladio" table! Weird tie knots, gold fountain pens and "whatever that crap Eladio sprays in his mouth" entirely optional!
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:21:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 8:21:00 PM EST
-- A quote from the capítulo --
“[Gisela] está peleada con la vida, a todo le ve el lado malo.”
Clara telling Francisco that Gisela is a grumpy nincompoop who sees everything through her negativity-colored (alcohol-soaked) goggles.
Estar peleado / peleada con la vida = Literally means to be on bad terms with life (from the verb "pelear" meaning to fight / quarrel / argue / be on bad terms with); i.e. to be an irascible person, always in a huff and complaining about something or other.
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“[Gisela] está peleada con la vida, a todo le ve el lado malo.”
Clara telling Francisco that Gisela is a grumpy nincompoop who sees everything through her negativity-colored (alcohol-soaked) goggles.
Estar peleado / peleada con la vida = Literally means to be on bad terms with life (from the verb "pelear" meaning to fight / quarrel / argue / be on bad terms with); i.e. to be an irascible person, always in a huff and complaining about something or other.
Permalink posted by : Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 10:00:00 PM EST
: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 10:00:00 PM EST
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