Thursday, March 17, 2016

Pasión y Poder Jueves 3/17/16 #106


Chapter 106: Fallen Angels

So many people trust the wrong people in their lives. Betrayal is no respector of gender, relationship status, education, looks, or any other human quality. It can happen to the rich or the poor. It's not always about money, but when it is it's bigger than the owners of the money because it often has its roots in things beyond greed. It also has lingering effects into other areas of life. The next stop for some of these people will not be the Twilight Zone that Rod Serling wrote about, but it will be something equally unknown to them.  I won't feel any pity when that happens.  – D.D.


Franco told Marcos that he needed him to embezzle funds for them to buy enough shares to begin acquiring the controlling interest of GLA. He was overconfident that it could be done undetected because he was setting up a dummy corporation. Undoubtedly this was what he intended to do after selling the shoe factory behind Gabriela's back. Marcos (who reminded me of Leo Bloom) was afraid of the risk. He was sure that Eladio would catch them. Franco told him “Sure, it's risky, but we'll be millionaires. I want to take control away from Eladio Gómez-Luna. Help me and everything he has will be yours and mine. Ours.”
He reached out his hand. Marcos took it reluctantly and swallowed hard.
Okay,” he said.
Too bad there was no cell phone camera aimed at them. I heard he looked like a gazelle staring at a lion.

I'm not your father's lover. Please, Daniela, stop repeating this.”
Daniela looked at Julia through hooded eyelids.
It seems to me that life is short and the only thing we should do is look to be happy,” she said. “And I know my father is getting divorced for you.” She watched as Julia looked about to protest. “I can't say I'll be happy if you and my father end up together, but I promise I won't bother you because, in a way, I identify with you. You knew my father and circumstances separated you. I met David and the same thing happened.”
Julia was ill at ease hearing this, but was saved by her cell phone. It was David, who wanted to see her right away. Daniela sensed whom she was talking to and silently indicated she would leave. After she left the table Julia told David she would wait for him there. He arrived within a few minutes. They greeted each other before he sat.
How are you?”
How am I? Bad. Your father asked for a divorce.”
I know,” said David, after exhaling. “I talked to him, he told me, and I really think it's better for you, Mother. You can't go on being hurt and you need to be free to make your own way. To be with or without Arturo.” His tone of voice said that his feelings about this were still the same.
David, please, I'm not with him –”
Alright, very well. I'm not going to question you, I don't want to argue about it. You just have to move on, too.” He rolled up his sleeves. “Look, I understand that Regina doesn't care for me. She didn't fight for it, so I'm now with Daniela.”
Yes, I know. She told me. She's very decisive.”
So you see I'm not changing my plans. Just as you have to live your life with or without Arturo –”
Tell me, are you really interested in Daniela, son, or are you with her out of spite?”
Mother, you know me. I'll tell you. We agreed to see each other as friends and we've gone out as friends to see if something will happen. Something happened. She's changed and every time is better. I feel good.”
Do you love her as much as Regina?”
It's difficult to say if I love her as much as Regina but we'll see what happens. But what's clear is that Daniela will fight for what she wants. And what she has.”
Julia nodded, but wasn't at ease with this.

Augustin entered Arturo's office, closing the door behind him.
I have been checking into what you charged me with: Who's been passing information to Eladio Gómez-Luna.”
Do you know who it is?”
No, but think about this: Every information leak is about things we've talked about in here. The only person who was always present was your secretary.”
Arturo sat back in his leather chair and exchanged looks with Augustin. He then hit the button on his intercom.
Angeles, would you step in here for a moment, please.”
She was in the office within seconds.
Good afternoon.”
Arturo looked up at her while Augustin watched from behind. He smiled for a moment.
How long have you been passing information to Eladio Gómez-Luna?”
I? I don't know what you're talking about.”
You are one of the few people who hear the conversations that take place here,” said Augustin.
But it wasn't me. Maybe it's Clara. Yes, it's her.”
No,” said Arturo. “She is Consuelo's friend.”
I was at the baptism and I met her fiancé. He works with David Gómez-Luna.”
Arturo looked from her to Augustin, who turned away for a second. Regina walked in without knocking.
What's happened?” she asked.
We're investigating who from this office is giving information to Eladio Gómez-Luna,” said Arturo.
Yes. It has to be Clara,” said Angeles.
No,” said Augustin. “Clara hasn't been with the company long and she's never been present when we've talked.
Besides, I know perfectly well that she is incapable of anything like that,” said Regina. She looked at her father. “It's not her, Father.”
Therefore, who is it?” he asked without taking his eyes off his secretary.
I don't know, sir,” she said. “But I swear it wasn't me.”
We will continue investigating,” he said. “And I assure you that the guilty party will face the full weight of the law.”
Regina watched Angeles for a reaction.
Excuse me, sir,” said the secretary. She left the office. Regina and Augustin looked at Arturo. Augustin shook his head to indicate he doubted her word. Arturo said nothing, but looked as though he agreed.
I don't believe it,” said Arturo. “I don't believe it. Did you see how she reacted? There's something up with this.”
It could be, but we will need proof,” said Augustin.
We'll need to do something. Maybe leak false information and see if it goes anywhere.”
Sounds like a plan,” said Augustin.
Daughter, you have to help us.”
Yes, Dad. Because it's unfair that she accused Clara. Well, I'll do anything you say. Excuse me.” She left the office.
How long has she been with the company?” Arturo asked Augustin.
A long time. Years.”
I can't believe it. Now we have to be more careful than ever. Julia is leaving Eladio for me. He might try to get revenge.”
Yes, we need to be more careful. You know, we should also contact Consuelo. I have to appeal the custody of her baby.”
Good. Augustin, I only want things done fairly. Nina knew the judge.”
Miguel walked in just as he said that.
And I doubt that everything went right, knowing Erick as I do.”
I knew they did something crooked,” said Miguel. Arturo and Augustin looked at him.

Eladio sat at his desk, looking at the wristwatch Julia had given him. Humberto came in silently and stopped in front of the desk.
My daughter told me you are getting divorced. I'm sorry I couldn't do anything to prevent it. Are you alright?”
Eladio kissed the watch and paused. “No, but I will have to be.” He held up the watch. “You always liked this watch, didn't you?”
Yes, very much.”
Eladio placed it on the desk near him.
I can't keep it, but since you like it, it's yours.”
But it was a gift from my daughter.”
But it will be bad for me to keep it because I remember every moment.”
I understand,” said Humberto, who didn't hesitate to put it on.
If you'll excuse me, I have to go out,” said Eladio.
He got up and left his office. Humberto didn't even stop to wonder why he wasn't told to leave first. He was too busy smiling at the sight of the watch.

Julia and Gabriela arrived at the latter's apartment. They had been to the gynecologist so Gabriela could have fertility tests. She was concerned for her aunt as well and was puzzled by Julia's mood.
You had been wanting to divorce him for a long time.”
Yes, but it hurts because at last I was in love with him. But I don't want to talk about this. How are things between you and David?”
Between us, good, but I wish he would accept Franco. But in time I hope he will.”
I don't know, but my son has been acting so strangely lately. I'm very anxious about him being with Daniela. He seems enthused with her but I don't think as much as he says. I think he's mistaken.”
Calm down. David isn't the type to be with anyone who has nothing to offer in his private life.”
He said that Daniela has changed, but this isn't alright. She's the sister of... Regina.”
I'm sure Daniela started this. I don't think David took the initiative here.”
He said he wanted to start over –”
Well, I only hope he doesn't end up getting hurt.”
They embraced. Julia looked concerned.

I want you to explain what you were about to say,” said Miguel.
Excuse me,” said Augustin. He left.
Just a minute.”
No, don't ask me that,” said Miguel. He was almost shouting. “Don't you know that what happened wasn't Consuelo's fault?” Arturo agreed. “Yes, yes, you know! So are you saying you're agreeing with everything that happened with her!”
No, I don't agree with any of this.”
Therefore aren't you going to do anything?”
We'll do whatever we can.”
Erick walked in, as usual without knocking.
Alright, what's going on? I heard the shouting outside.”
You are an imbecile,” said Miguel. “You suborned justice to take the baby away from Consuelo.”
Are you crazy? I didn't do anything. If the judge ruled in my favor it's because Consuelo didn't take care of my son!”
Miguel charged him, calling him a liar. He shoved him back against an office chair. Arturo quickly got in between them.
Miguel, Miguel, look,” he said, holding them apart. “Enough, enough! You're brothers, damn it!”
This creep has nothing to do with me. He's not my brother!” said Erick, pointing at Miguel.
I will not permit things to go on like this,” Arturo said.
If he never respected my marriage, why should I respect him, ey? Not him or that slut, Consuelo!”
Miguel started after him again, but Arturo stayed in between them. He glared at Erick.
She's the mother of your son. You must respect her!”
Respect her? How can I when she sees him to bother me?” He pointed at Miguel.
What the hell are you talking about when you've had a mistress?”
Oh, no? You hate when I have anything. Accept that!”
Arturo tried backing Erick off. He finally grabbed his head between his hands.
I don't want any more fights. Please leave my office.”
What?”
Get out of my office!” He noticed Augustin entering and asked him to escort Erick out. As Augustin complied he turned to Miguel. “And you, calm down, calm down.”
Miguel could see that his father was fighting his own frustration with this ugly mess.

Daniela was in David's office. They talked about their conversations with Julia. David said he would continue on regardless of his mother's opinion of the matter. As she started to leave she made sure he would be with her at the photo shoot on the beach once he finished the luxury building project in Santa Fe. He said it would be a good break for him after wrapping up the project. She promised him a good time.

Eladio entered his office to find Franco waiting for him.
The divorce is out. It's no secret.”
Yes, that doesn't surprise me. I suspect Arturo already knows. All I ask is to not have the media bother me.”
I'll just the official people handle this through Amaya.”
Perfect. I just want a recommendation about the right way to do Arturo's project.”
We have to change the photo shoot, then.”
Why?”
There's a storm on the beach.”
Eladio sighed as he sank down into his chair.
One more thing gets in the way. Leave me alone, please.”
Alright. Excuse me.”
As he was leaving, Ruedas entered. They exchanged greetings before Franco walked out. Ruedas told Eladio he had the divorce documents ready as he sat down to review them with him.
Believe me, this is what I resisted doing,” Eladio said.
As a friend, I understand. As your lawyer I ask you if you with to charge Julia with infidelity.”
What's the matter? Of course not.”

Caridad and Clara sat in their kitchen that evening and Caridad talked about fixing up the house and how Franco was providing financial support. Clara wasn't really in the mood to talk about this because Caridad was still looking at Franco with blinders. Clara told her that Franco had always been selfish and she couldn't see him changing.

I'm afraid, Franco,” Angeles told him over lunch. “Arturo is suspicious of me. I tried to implicate Clara –”
You'll still have to spy for me.”
How much longer?”
Until I say so. You better be calm so you're not discovered. Besides, you need the money for your daughter, don't you?”
Very well, but only one more time.”
Augustin was nearby taking pictures or video with his cell phone. Neither saw him.

Eladio was in his therapist's office, walking around as he spoke of his problems. He couldn't remain still.
Now I have finally, completely lost Julia.”
Nothing is definitive. Will you explain to me what happened?”
It's that I knew she spent the night with Arturo, I really can't take this.” He had been gritting his teeth. “Because of that I asked for a divorce.”
Explain to me if anything other than your jealousy made you make this decision.”
Yes, in the beginning, yes. But it's what I feel inside. Except I've tried to calm down and I'm feeling a sense of acceptance.”
What makes you feel this way?”
No matter what I've done, it's likely that Julia never loved me.”
When she discovered the deception she distanced herself anew.”
Yes. Well, I don't know. I've accepted my guilt. I never thought I would feel this bad. I've faced the reality that I've lost her. Now I also know that I can never stop loving her.”
First of all, I must congratulate you. Because you're not trying to keep Julia by force.”
Yes, yes, yes. I couldn't do that anymore because I came to know that I love her. And as much as it hurts I have to let her go free.”
Eladio, I believe that there is no greater proof of love than that.”

Regina visited Consuelo, who had seen Daniela in the restaurant with Julia. She reported that things looked civilized and relaxed. Regina knew that her sister was looking to insinuate herself into that family.
If this is hurting you, Regina, you know what you have to do.”
No I'm not hurting, but that wouldn't bother Daniela's conscience.”
Are you sure?”
Yes.”
Miguel arrived.
Miguel, I asked you not to come,” Consuelo said.
I know, but I had to come and tell you something,” he said as he came in. “It wasn't our fault that your baby was taken. Erick did us dirty because the judge is a friend of Nina's.”
Seriously? Therefore can we use that?”
I don't know how they did it, but I heard that the judge is a friend of Nina's –”
We have to figure this out,” said Consuelo. “Anything will do –”
Augustin will know. I'll talk to my father. It won't be easy but we'll find out some way.”
I can't believe Erick would come to this,” said Regina.
He's a wretch,” said Miguel.
I can't deny it,” said Regina.
What a hypocrite,” said Consuelo. “All this time he's nice to me, letting me see my own son every morning as though it were a favor.”
Less guilt on Nina, then,” said Miguel. Both women froze. “Sorry.”
Jorge arrived without warning; the door had been left open.
I've come for Regina. We're going to dinner. Want to join us?”
Why not? We can celebrate the hope,” said Miguel.
Sounds good to me,” said Consuelo. She smiled at Miguel. “I'll get my purse.”

Eladio went to the mansion he was giving Julia. She found him in the front parlor.
What did you want to talk about?”
I only want to tell you that Ruedas came with the list of what I want to give you in the divorce. Obviously, if you need anything else you have only to ask for it.”
Thanks, but I don't want anything.”
It's what you have a right to.”
No. The house is enough. You don't have to give me anything else. Our son is a grown man and I also will take care of myself.”
I want to do this so you don't depend on anyone. If you're going to live with Arturo I don't want it to be out of necessity. I want you to have all you're entitled to.”
You don't know how surprised I am at your attitude,” she said.
Me, more so. But I've finally learned that to love someone is to want them to be happy even if they're not with one. And to love you is to want you to be happy with whomever you want.”
Do you really want me to be happy?”
I always thought so but I never knew how to do it.”
Both of us, no? We've both made many mistakes.”
Yes, that's why we're here. If it bothers you I also came to discuss with you what to tell the lawyer about grounds for divorce. It's painful, but it's something we have to talk about along with the division of assets.”
I told you I don't want anything. I'm not asking for anything.”
Is that from pride or because Arturo will be asking Arturo for help?”
No. I don't want to answer that. You just can't imagine that I'm not asking for anything.”
I'm sorry, but this isn't easy for me.”
Not me, either.”
She had begun to cry.
Well, then it's best to start the process as soon as possible. I don't want to bother you more and there's no need for anyone to know that you're involved with Arturo.”
Julia was getting wearing of hearing this.
There is nothing to say because it isn't true,” she said.
Let me suggest something. Why don't we tell the truth? That the grounds for divorce is my infidelity?”
No,” said Julia, wiping her face. “The right thing would be to say it's irreconcilable differences.”
Alright. I agree. I'm sorry for all this, and good night.”
Good night.”
She stood in the same spot as he left and continued to cry. She wasn't sure why. A woman who had been abused as she had for almost her entire life would need more time to understand her own emotions.

Jorge, Regina, Miguel, and Consuelo sat in the very casual restaurant that looked almost like an old-fashioned diner in New York. Jorge talked about having worked in a place like this once, which surprised Consuelo.
It's a good thing you can cook because I can't do anything in the kitchen,” Regina said.
The waiter came by and Jorge recommended something he once prepared there. The waiter was enthused and Jorge got up to demonstrate his recipe for the dish. They walked off to take care of this to the amusement of the others.
Later they ate the tacos and were surprised to hear that he had also made the salsa. He talked about his previous jobs and mentioned that he had had another business before the present one. For a brief time they all seemed to forget their problems and Consuelo felt relaxed with Miguel.

Later, Julia and Humberto were in the study.
Calm down, daughter. You did the right thing.”
I don't know, Father.”
Of course you did. Now you can look at the future and forget the past.”
It's just that it's not forgotten that easily, Father. It's that I've always been under him, trying to understand, to over come this –”
Good. I think that Eladio wants to forget you.”
I don't know.”
Daughter, look at what he gave me.” He showed her the watch.
He gave it to you?”
Yes.” He handed it to her.
I gave this to him from my first commission.”
He gave it to me because he didn't want anything that reminded him of you. You have to forget him, too, daughter. Get him out of your life.”
In thinking of all this, Father, I'm still confused. Sad. You don't know how much Eladio's indifference hurts me.”
I'm sorry, daughter, but with time you will feel different. You'll be with other people and you'll overcome this. I'm so proud of you, daughter.”
You've never said that to me,” she said.
I don't know, but I'm getting old and maybe a little wise because I'm going to die, daughter. I'm sure.” He smiled slightly and took her hand.
Don't say that, Father,” she said. “Besides, every time I see you you look better than ever.”
Maybe I look well, but I don't think so.”
I want you to take care of yourself, Father. Now that my sister isn't here it's just you and me. And I need you very much.”
I'm here, daughter. Here I am to take care of you. In spite of everything.”
She looked at him suspiciously as he took her hand. He did look older and more feeble, but that wasn't all. This behavior had never been normal for him.

Erick went home and was immediately scolded by his mother.
It's a shame, Erick,” she said.
What have I done now, Mama?”
You didn't get up early to take the baby to the pediatrician. I had to go alone.”
Mama, I forgot.”
Well, no. You can't forget. You aren't taking care of your son as you should.”
Mama, I forgot because I've been very busy. You don't know what happened. I'm very worried because Miguel found out about the judge. Therefore, I –”
Arturo came in, cutting off his words.
I need to see you, Nina,” Arturo said. “I hope you didn't interfere with the custody because someday you will have to leave him with Consuelo,” he said to Erick's face.
No, no, no, no, no. I want my son to live with me, Papa.”
I don't like this kind of a whim. I understand the security issue, but there is a different solution for it.”
No way can Consuelo prove anything,” Nina said, smirking behind Arturo's back.
Don't be so sure of that,” Arturo said. “Miguel is capable of starting a ruckus over this and the least that will happen is your dear friend – the judge – will end lose his right to sit on the bench. Does he want to lose his reputation?”
If Miguel tries to create trouble the judge, Consuelo's situation will get much worse,” Nina answered.
How do you think you'll do that?”
To begin with he has no moral authority. The whole world knows he's Consuelo's lover, no?”
Yes, besides I don't want him anywhere near my son,” said Erick as he stood next to Nina. “Do whatever you want to try to do something about the custody. It will take months.”
Don't say such stupid things,” Arturo said. “If you want the best for your son, you'd return him to live with his mother.” He looked at Nina. “The one thing I will judge you for is what you're doing to our grandchild. Think about it.” He left them to think about it.
He has no reason,” Nina said to herself before turning around to her son. “You are supposed to be taking care of little Erick. You know your father always preferred Miguel.”

In the diner Jorge flirted with Regina from behind the counter as he sliced off some meat that reminded me of gyro vendors in midtown Manhattan. Miguel and Consuelo approved of him and agreed he was a good fellow, but Consuelo had lingering doubts that Regina was doing the right thing.

David went to see Gabriela and they talked about Daniela. She wanted to make sure he was doing the right thing. He was still convinced that Daniela had changed and had come to believe that he was of no importance to Regina. After a few sips of tea David told her that nothing she could say would change his mind. She decided to prepare dinner, but he didn't feel right about her doing that. He suggested they go out for tacos at a nearby place and she thought this an excellent idea.

Elsewhere Franco was putting little Mateo in his crib.
Good night, my prince, my partner, Mateo, sleep well,” he said as he adjusted the bedclothes.
I love seeing you like this,” said Marintia. She embraced him. “Tell me, how is it you can be with me all this time? Your little wife is so jealous.”
Gaby is with David and when she's with David, she gets home late.”
At last he's sleeping well.” She started kissing Franco, who reciprocated for a few seconds, then pushed her back.
Now, Marintia, pay attention,” he said, with Eladio's authoritative hand gesture. “We're going to withdraw a lot of my father's money.”
How?”
I made an arrangement with Marcos, the accountant. There will be a pair of businesses, one for him and one for us. Eventually we're going to buy shares of GLA. My father won't know a thing and little by little we will have control over everything that is his. How does that look to you?”
Her grin said she loved the idea. His said he was hiding something.

Jorge had returned to the table and they were having a good time talking about the food and toasting with various fruit drinks just as David entered with Gabriela. He looked ill at ease at the sight of Regina leaning against Jorge. Gabriela seemed to suggest they leave, but David didn't take her up on it. Jorge got up to take his leave of his friends in the kitchen and David walked in just as Regina got up to follow.
Regina, you don't have to run away from me. You look well, you look happy. More than ever, you look like you're with the man you love.”
I'm just moving on. But you're with my sister. Que barbaro.” (great? Cruel? Uncouth?)
I'm with someone independent –”
My sister.”
It's because of what you did and you know what you did was a mistake. You just don't want to see it.”
No. I don't want to see you because you bother me.”
Bother you?”
Yes. You bother me.”
So if I bother you you shouldn't care what I do.”
Yes.”
He walked back to Gabriela and they left together. Regina returned to the table and asked the others not to tell Jorge what just happened.

The following morning Caridad tried showing the latest photo of Mateo to Eladio, who couldn't have been less interested. He glanced as a token gesture of politeness and returned to the document he was reading.
I suppose Franco sent it to you.”
Yes. He's wondering when the child will know you're his grandfather.”
He gave her a look that said she was treading on thin ice. Ruedas saved him an argument by arriving for their appointment. Caridad backed off so he could sit down.
I spoke with Julia about the terms of the divorce and we agreed to get it over with as quickly as possible.”
That sounds like the most sensible thing.”:
Caridad smiled behind the lawyer's back. She still hadn't learned that there was no jackpot waiting for her.

Augustin entered Arturo's office, cell phone in hand.
Yesterday I followed Angeles when she went to lunch. Look at whom she was with.”
He showed the image to Arturo, who took the phone and looked through the photos.
It's Franco.”
I have no doubt she's the one. She's the informant. We need to set a trap with false information as we agreed to. Let's go.”
Arturo shook his head. “It can't be. Well, alright. Let's begin.”
I also have to tell you that Ashmore wants to see you.”
I don't want to see him. Something that happened that... how is it possible...”
Augustin shrugged. He was wondering whether Arturo got confirmation of what he had suspected months ago.

The very same Ashmore was waiting in the parlor at the Montenegro mansion when Daniela came down the stairs. He quickly rose at the sound of her footsteps to catch her before she could leave the house. She was wearing red and black with an off-the-shoulder blouse that wasn't quite the thing to be worn between breakfast and lunch.
What are you doing here?” she asked him.
I just came to see you.”
I don't have anything to talk about with you. Nothing. Besides, I don't want my boyfriend to see you here.” She saw David enter out of the corner of her eye.
Ah, you have a boyfriend,” he said, leering at her.
Yes. It's him.” She nodded in David's direction.
Ashmore waited for David to reach them and said “You're dating a Gómez-Luna?”
Yes. Dating a Gómez-Luna. It's a good thing the door is open, Sir, because you don't want to mess with me.”
Ashmore looked at him as though he were joking.
I'm not playing. Don't come back here if she doesn't want you to.”
Ashmore reached behind David to grab Daniela but David stopped him.
Don't touch her!”
Peter, in one word, leave!” said Daniela.
Think carefully about what you're doing,” he said to her. He gave her a contemptuous look and left without another word.
David, don't go on thinking this is my fault,” she said. “He thinks I was into him because we got along.”
I hope so,” he said. He looked doubtful.
I swear. I don't want you to think badly of me.”
She embraced him and therefore didn't see the doubtful look on his face. He released her.
You'll have to excuse me,” he said. “I feel bad because I encountered your sister and she was with Jorge.”
And did it hurt you to see her? David, tell me the truth. I have to know where you are on this.
I can't lie. It bothered me to see her happy and it felt like I never meant anything. It's like I was any other person.”
That was bad, but yes; you didn't mean anything to Regina. I wouldn't have told you this because I didn't want to hurt you but you had to see for yourself.”
David took a deep breath.
Well, then, now it doesn't matter to me.”
Are you sure?”
Of course. Of course because now you and I have something and you've got my attention. I don't have to think about it any more or find out anything more.”
That seemed to satisfy Daniela, but David didn't look that sure of his words.

I want you to know that we're going to fight with everything to recover your son,” Miguel told Consuelo. “If Erick can do something wrong, so can we.”
What are you proposing?”
You don't want to see Nina try to bring up your son.”
She's a hypocrite.”
Forget about her. What we can do is go to the house, take your son out, and go far away. Very far away.”
Do you want us to steal my child?”
No, no, no, no, no. Get him back. I'm absolutely sure that Nina and Erick used their influence to get the judge to take away your son. Let's go. The three of us. Far away from them.”
No. No, Miguel. I don't want to do things the wrong way. I want full custody of my son. Augustin has to find the right way to do this.”
That could take a long time, Consuelo.”
But things have to be done correctly for my son. I'm saying it one more time. I don't want him to lose Regina, or Arturo.”
They'll be alright. They've seen the situation and they'll understand we'll take good care of him and that we'll manage.”
Please understand me. I don't want that life for my son.”
You're right. I don't want that for you either, but this injustice can't continue. I don't know how but I'll have to find out how that judge sold himself out.”

At that same moment, Regina accused Erick.
I can hardly believe you bribed a judge to take Consuelo's baby from her. What were you thinking? Return him to her! She's his mother!”
You're crazy,” said Erick. “And at least he won't have Miguel for a father.”
Return him to her, Erick.”
Those two are capable of turning him against me and I don't want my own son to hate me. Those two.”
You alone could make your son could hate you because you're an idiot!” She looked at Nina. “Explain to me, Mother, how you helped him with this.”
You know what? I also think it would hurt the baby to be near Miguel. Period.”
Miguel is a good man,” said Regina.
A good man?” Erick laughed. “Ay, Regina.”
Please, tell me how caring from the heart is bad. Children understand things before they can explain them. There is nothing evil in Miguel and the three of them could be very happy –”
Erick grinned smugly.
How modern, how modern,” he smirked. “How strange because you and Daniela lend the same boyfriend back and forth –”
Erick,” Nina said through her teeth.
Regina looked at them both.

Eladio was reading when Julia entered his office.
Julia, what are you doing here? Excuse me, but I didn't know we had an appointment so I wasn't expecting you to visit.”
It wasn't you. It was Ruedas who said I needed to be here.”
Of course.”
Ruedas arrived as if summoned and placed his briefcase on the table.
Eladio told me that your divorce is by mutual consent and that it's due to irreconcilable differences.”
It is,” Julia said. Eladio nodded.
Perfect. Then I want you to look over the list of assets to choose what you want.”
No, what he's already given me will be fine,” she said, handing it back.
Well, then we'll go right to the signatures.” He took out the papers and his pen.

Madam, sign here, please.”

Labels:


Comments:
Utban, I haven't read the recap yet, but I just got done seeing the episode. WOW!!!!!
I just know your recap is gonna hit it out of the park off the planet.
I'll read it later. Got work early. Thank you!
 

Official Secrets List:

Consuelo's (from most people): Prostitute mother/raised in a brothel before being in the orphanage Revealed That she left the house after coming home the night of the murder and was MIA during the rest of the party. Status quo
Arturo's (from his family): That he had a great love before Nina plus his secret meetings with Julia (First now known but not the second... yet) Details of the second not known yet; bribing of witness to not identify Erick the night that Orkin came to call Erick now knows but not the details; Status quuo; that Humberto told him that Franco was Eladio's bastard. Status quo; that Franco tried to sell out GLA to him (possibly known by Augustin, but no one else); that he will give worthless shares to Humberto (still known only to Augustin)
Julia (from Eladio): Secret meetings with Arturo Details probably not known yet; that Arturo told her about Franco
Humberto: That he told Arturo about Franco. Status quo
Eladio (from Julia): All his affairs and crooked deals (she now knows about the first but not the second) Some secrets still pending; his entire past
Erick (from Consuelo): His affair with the Rat Revealed; his hiring of thugs to beat up Franco Status quo: (from everyone) what really happened the night that Orkin came to call Status quo (known only to Pedro, but the nurse could ID him): That he is behind the kidnapping scheme Status quo
– New: That Nina bribed the judge to rule in his favor in the custody case currently under suspicion by Miguel, Consuelo, Arturo, Regina, and Augustin
Gabriela (from Julia): That she knew six months before the wedding that Franco is Eladio's son Status quo
Franco: That he was cheating on Gaby with Marintia and now the baby is born Currently known only to Caridad and Eladio ; (from Julia): That he knew six months before the wedding that he is Eladio's son; (from everyone) his hiring of thugs to cut the brakes of Erick's car (same thug as the one who beat him); tried selling GLA out to Arturo (but got caught); bribing Angeles for inside info on GM (possibly known to Eladio but no one else) the latest confirmed by Augustin to Arturo; the rest status quo
Clara (unknown to everyone, including her): Origin Status quo
Daniela (from everyone except Nina and Erick):: That she is boinking Assmore but both Augustin and David are suspicious; no real change; (from everyone): That she knows about Marintia and Franco and the baby Status quo
Nina: Details of her past beyond her brief acting career. Status quo
(known only to Fanny): that she has been meeting with Eladio Status quo
– New: That she bought off the judge to rule in Erick's favor in the custody battle currently under suspicion by Miguel, Consuelo, Arturo, Regina, and Augustin
Marintia: (known only to Caridad, Eladio, Franco, and Daniela): Pregnancy and birth of son; Paternity of child Status quo
Angeles (known only to Franco, but possibly suspected by Eladio): That she is selling out GM to Franco Now known to Arturo and Augustin

Revised 3/17/16 following episode 106
 

Great job. Thank you so much Urban for the recap and for filling in for NovelaMaven. Your recaps are so detailed and I love the translation of the dialogue. It helps with remembering what was said.

We hit Ultimas Semanas tonight. It was announced in the previews.

I loved the title. It fits so well since Angeles has basically been caught as being the mole at GM.

I wanted to scream when Miguel suggested he and Consuelo grab Erick Jr. and flee. Thank goodness Consuelo disapproved and realized that if she did that then she would lose her son for good.
 

Thinking ahead isn't the strong suit of a lot of these characters, that is certain. I knew Consuelo wouldn't go for that.

The devil is always in the details, Mauricio, and Televisa's actors understand this very well. Every little facial expression has meaning.

If we're 14 episodes behind Mexico then we'll hit the finale on or about April 28th unless we have pre-emptions.

More tomorrow; I need a few z's.
 

UA...Today is going to be crazy and I won't have time to read the recap until later but YOWZA what a fabulous picture to head up your resumen. You have multiple gifts my friend, and choosing arresting and unforgettable portrayals of the dramas enacted night after night is one of them. Thank you, thank you.
 

Superb UA.

First, I enthusiastically support Judy's comment. Your screen shot was captivating and very powerful.

Your narrative was flawless and mesmerizing. "Daniela looked at Julia through hooded eyelids" was descriptive and one of many favorites.

I keep hoping there will be more definitive movement so that either Eladio or Arturo will clearly be the better contender for Julia. Both are more imperfect than not so...

Shall we celebrate Eladio "Because you're not trying to keep Julia by force”? I think not. His past treatment of Julia and his continuing to conceal present truths from her have been his undoing. When Julia had a change of heart, they might have been able to work things out, had he only told her the truth about Franco and his grandson. Mateo has unfrozen even Franco's heart, but not Eladio's. "The following morning Caridad tried showing the latest photo of Mateo to Eladio, who couldn't have been less interested." There is only room for one person in Eladio's heart - Julia.

“No way can Consuelo prove anything,” Nina said, smirking behind Arturo's back". Smarter couture and less makeup may have enhanced the outer Nina, but her actions last night proved her heart is still hard. She may have changed her spots (leopard prints)physically but not mentally.

Franco is completely unhinged thinking he is going to successfully swindle Eladio. It is too bad he has dragged the no doubt formerly respectable Marcos with him. And I didn't recall that we'd been told Angeles was spying to help her sister. So, it's not pure greed after all.

Dani is utterly selfish but she made a crucial error in underestimating Assmore. He is trouble and may prove to be her undoing. David doesn't look like he believes their relationship was platonic and Dani's assertion that it was will come back to bite her.

I'm glad Miguel is back in Regina's favor. Yes, his inclination to run was not thought out but Connie wisely put a stop to that. I think he annoys everyone but me and I hope I have some company at his table before this ends.

Now that the end is not too far off, I can't see Gaby finding out too much until near the end. Doesn't appear to be time to set up a romance with Augustin (which I'm also in favor of, in minority opinion :))

UA, this was great.

Diana
 

UA, great recap and appreciated your "secrets" list. I've been enjoying all the wonderful details put out every day by the team since I have mainly been reading this TN versus watching daily.

Last night, I grabbed an episode to watch as my eyes were too tired after work to read as I have been doing nightly before "El Hotel". We definitely seem to be in the heading into ultimates period where it seems the manipulators are winning and the relationships a mess. Take3 comfort now we start moving to the cretins making the mess getting their...but gee, that seems like almost the whole cast.

Tops of my list honestly is Erick. Can't help it. There is nothing in his self-righteous attitude that has an ounce of anyone but his mother supporting him. Spouting his venom about Connie, who has every right to move on from a known cheating husband and suspected murderer at one point, should be having Arturo kicking his A** out of the business and cutting him off support. Nina is almost obsessive in her support of his antics. They are uncomfortable to watch. For someone who had to claw her way up and fight for family support, you would have thought she would understand Connie's plight. There's mother's love, and then there's aiding and abetting bad and criminal behavior.

That said, Arturo is no saint. He did the same to get that creep out of trouble, so I give him no pass either. And his equal obsession over Julia is NOT the stuff of a great love story. Still vote he lose it all and let Augustin take over anything left. Guy deserves something for his loyalty and keeping his wits about him in this group.

As for the way the two young lovebirds are being written...really?? Just stupid. Makes David look like a loon and Gina as some clueless tween. Another painful to watch. There had been some great potential story there what went straight to TN cliche.

Diana, I've liked Miguel too. He's just that unloved nerd who had few friends and hid himself within his techie world. I think the actor's attempt to play him as someone trying to grow strong, realize his love for Connie and fight for attention and love comes off as creepy and sometimes stilted. The fun guy at the restaurant is more the character I would have like to see through this. But I do root for he and Connie...his idea was rash, but the concept was good. Once that child is hers, they should still get out of town.

Watching Caridad last night, anyone doubt where Franco got his real genetics for grabbing the brass ring? Couple that with growing up with Eladio at his worst abusive period and the guy never had a chance. He's doomed, but his parental units can be directly pointed to blame for his creation. And Caridad smiling at divorce news...she thinks she is in the running? Still don't get what Eladio ever saw in her. Bad casting of the character.

Not sure when I can grab another episode, but lord help me, can there be one where Julia isn't weeping all the time?

Daisynjay
 

UA..Thanks so much For that detailed recap.

wow..What a photo. Looks like a heavy metal rocker.

My favorite line was when Julia is answering her son.."How am I feeling? Bad" Wow, wouldn't we all like to just say that. Instead, when asked that question, one usually answers 'Fine" even if one of one's arms is about to fall off.

Well, Eladio has heard that saying ''If you love something, let it go." I am surprised. Our Perpetually tortured Julia is always just on the brink of tears. Sometimes, you just have to make a decision and move forward. Bad things happen to people all the time but they get up..forgive others..forgive themselves and get on with their lives. Wallowing in the past helps nobody. Make a decision , Julia..Eladio, Art, or Julia on her own.

Hum is unbelievable...no remorse.
 

Yeah..Daisynjay..What she said ! I am always surprised that you usually say exactly what I am thinking. My favorite part of your analysis was "the loon and the tween." ..so accurate . I guess Jorge is the slow, suspecting Turtle. Hey,what happened to that Turtle?

We just are not having it are we, Daisynjay? Boo freaking hoo.
 

UA, you have a great narrative talent, we both hear the translations and VISUALIZE the scenes as we read your recap, you are a master at that. Thanks for sharing your talent with us.

I was disappointed in Nina last night. While it was Erick who bribed the judge; Augustin was disgusted with his comportment at the hearing, "Erick's behavior is unforgiveable, he Augustin) says. (Tu hijo no tiene perdón.) Arturo won't believe what he said to the judge..." and other than stating she knew the judge, we didn't see Nina actually call him, and when more money to the judge was mentioned, Nina said she had none, and then chastised Erick for being stupid, she knows in her heart that Consuelo is a good mother and should have custody of the baby. Mothers support their errant children, but Nina shouldn't support Erick in this case. Her unhappiness at seeing Consuelo date Miguel while still married to Erick and the security issues due to the kidnapping scare are getting the best of her, but actually taking the baby legally isn't the answer. For me, I'll not be happy with Nina unless she helps return that child.

Diana, I used to want Miguel and Consuelo together, why not if they love each other? But Miguel seems oblivious to the issues of the custody battle, and that worries me. He seems so socially inept and even kinda, sorta stupid. Oh dear..

I'm happy that Regina is stepping in to support Consuelo, but telling Erick that the three of them, Miguel, Consuelo and Erick Jr. will be happy is a strategic mistake. That isn't the picture you need to paint for custody battles, everyone will be just happy as pugs in a blanket without you!
 

Diana and Daisynjay..I have always felt sorry for Miguel , and I can understand why he fell for Connie as he watched Nina, Erick, and Dani treat her with the sane distain that they showed to him. However, he has not been thinking logically. Sometimes, really smart people do not have common sense.Don't ask me how I know. Meh
 

daisy, thank you for joining me at Miguel's table: "But I do root for he and Connie...his idea was rash, but the concept was good" was perfect.

But your "Watching Caridad last night, anyone doubt where Franco got his real genetics for grabbing the brass ring?" blew me away. I realized she was not the meek and mild little mouse early on, but your statement has me rethinking everything!

Susanlynn, I suspect we all know intelligent people without sound, common sense. I have had to submerge the urge to shake several of them upon occasion ;)

Sandy, I agree that Miguel is indeed socially inept. But, in view of what transpired during his formative years, verbal abuse by his stepmother and half sibs (unchecked by his father), I think he could have ended up with many more issues. I find a large, loving heart eradicates many foibles and faults. I am saving a seat for you at the table, just in case you change your mind :)...

Diana
 

Diana, "I find a large, loving heart eradicates many foibles and faults." Very well said and true.....I'll join you, I'm very annoyed with Nina anyway and need a respite from her table!! If you are unable to mix drinks like Carlos, a simple glass of white wine will do!
 

Thanks for the compliments, all. Now that I've been working this persona I'm really sorry I didn't develop this ability a dozen years ago. DD only wrote 5 novels but I could have made a deal to ghost under his name after his death with novels based on the chapters of Mansions In Limbo.

Remember that Nina hated Consuelo from Day One when Erick brought her to the mansion. There are several reasons I can see for this, none excluding any of the others:
-- She was a "nobody" who would not bring any status to her or to the family (the latter of which didn't really need it)
-- She had been successful at a career that Nina envied
-- She would be a competitive female influence over Erick with high probability of conflict
-- Erick was too young to get married

The last one is the only legitimate reason for objection; everything else is about Nina's ego and control.

There was a conversation she had with Ape Child a few weeks ago where she was urging him to get Consuelo's and the baby's company shares put in his name "and then she can go to hell." Fortunately that didn't happen.

Despite all of this Nina will be furious with Erick when he is exposed as the kidnapper. This could have cost the baby's life and possibly others'.

Miguel needs to remember all the details we've heard him mention in conversations with Consuelo. They need to get into Augustin's office and present the case. It's time for someone to lay a trap for Erick and that has to be someone who won't care how Nina will take it when the truth comes out.
 

Great recap Urban!

Ultimas Semanas so excited! There are so many anvils to be had I hope they start pouring down!

First is Erick. I hope Miguel breaks into his phone and tracks down the nurse that took care of the baby during the kidnapping.

Hummy's cell phone needs to be broken into by Julia so she can see all of the calls and texts to Arturo. Then I hope Franco pushes him down the stairs to die.

Since the money swindling scheme is just starting I don't think Franco will get his anvil until the very last episode.

I think Mari and Franco will die leaving Caridad to raise the baby and have the motherhood she lost.

I think Dani will live but be seriously injured by Assmore. Maybe even disfigured.

Nina will get the house and money and be left alone. Art will end up alone too I think.

I'm starting to believe that Julia just might end up alone, choosing neither Eladio or Art.
 

"A large, loving heart".. Diana, After reading your comments for several years, I think I can accurately say that it is you who has the large, living heart♥. I want to sit at the Diana table.
 

Thank you very much for the recap Urban!

Carvivlie: Miguel tracking down the nurse is going to be difficult because she's likely OUT of the country by now!

1.) Old Goat Humberto's days are numbered, it's only a matter of time!

2,) I'm interested to see how long will the money swindling scheme lasts ?

3.) Increasing more & more likely Marinita is going to get whacked, which will leave Mateo being raised by Caridad!

4.) Gaby is still STUPID. I lost respect for her when she didn't stand up for her own aunt, Julia, who was being bullied by Daniela & Co.,

5.) Purple Lips needs an anvil, but I need her big secrets being exposed because Aguie & Arturo haven't even begin to dig up dirt on her background yet!

Sandy: Regina blurting her big mouth about Jr., being better off with Miguel & Connie was STUPID!




 

Well done a usual UA, the DD persona right for this. Thanks

What Miguel should have done is suggest hiding prior to Connie losing custody. Happens every day and would have made Erick and Nina really work for it.

I've yanked out bald swatches a perm won't hide over the blank teary eyed stares of Julia and Regina as they lament loves hard choices. Do it, stick with it and be done with it.

I'm beginning to believe David is a doormat and will believe anything. David is a doormat, Doormat Dave.

Ok, Art gives bunches to Nina and Eladio to Julia and their sons take the rest and leave the silver-backs penniless. Appropriate.

 

Tofie..preach it, girl. Somebody just make the hard decisions and move on.

Carvivle..Yes, Miguel should be using his mad tech skilz to snoop on Er. What good are mad skilz if you don't use them.
 

Carvivlie, I agree about Franco. His latest scheme sounds like it would take some serious time, but his timing is actually on the money (he-he-he) here. Eladio is facing the ultimate consequence of his abuse of Julia and is headed for depression. His problem is that while Arturo was able to function in the business world and grow his company during his, Eladio might get just careless enough to not find out about this scheme until it nearly blows up.

Humberto looks sufficiently older and infirm that he might die of natural causes. Considering how long and painful that could be, it might actually be worse than someone doing him in.

Erick should end up in prison.

Assmore will do something to Daniela; I can't wait to see what. No matter what it is, neither Arturo nor Regina should not have to be burdened with taking care of her for the rest of time.

Tofie, Julia doesn't want anything from Eladio. The house was given to her and I think she should sell it. Franco has a long enough rap sheet that he should not benefit from anything else Eladio has left (and that's if he survives, which I doubt). David claimed a while back not to want anything so would he sell it all and give the money to the Foundation?

Susanlynn, Miguel did once volunteer to spy on Erick through his cell and his computer and that was when Consuelo decided to give him another chance. Now is the time to renew that offer.
 

Yeah, Eladio is so distraught about losing Julia that hevis not taking care of business. Despierta, Eladio!

The one person who deserves some kind of reward is Auggie. Art has had him putting out fires in the business and family since this novela began. Throw Auggie a bone. The guy has earned something good. Then, a new hairstyle .

I have decided that I would be happy to see Franky and Err share a cell. Karma..bring it.
 

Steve, since the nurse wasn't in on the kidnapping I think she might still be around. The dude that organized the whole thing should be out of the country. His luck has to have run out by now. Doesn't get caught for trying to off Erick and then helps Erick kidnap a kid, sells stolen jewels...

Urban, once Eladio finds out Franco's scheme I wouldn't want to be within a mile radius. I can see Eladio literally killing him, by accident, but dead.

Susanlynn, I still don't understand how no one has put two and two together that Erick staged the kidnapping. It seems so obvious that he must have had something to do with it because the timing was so perfect.
 

Let me just say that I find all these folks very frustrating, and I need this to be over. I have no idea how vthe vwriters have decided to resolve all the issues that keep swirling around, but it is time for some closure.
To quote Carlos...NEXT ! I need to move on.
 

Sandy, I'm pouring a light, white wine for you, daisy and susanlynn.

I gleefully look forward to Consuelo, her beautiful child and Miguel becoming a family.

We might even sing a chorus of "die Erick die" if we imbibe a bit. :)

Diana
 

Carvivlie, "I'm starting to believe that Julia just might end up alone, choosing neither Eladio or Art".

That would be the fitting, appropriate end to this sad tale. I have a feeling though that misery loves company so Julia will end up with one of the two non-galans. The discarded one will also be miserable so there you have it...

Diana
 

Julia is always having a sad about Eladio, so I am thinking that she will stay with Eladio in the end making Art have to face the music. Will he go through with the divorce, or go back to his mansion and Nina?
 

I'm on the fence Susanlynn.

I thought Nina might be redeemed but last night seemed to disprove that. Arturo has lost that lovin' feeling for Nina (such as it was). I would be surprised if he tries to resume the life he seemed to rather thoughtlessly and callously leave behind.

Diana
 

If Nina had any dignity she would NOT take Arturo back. Arturo discarded her like a broken toy because he's obsessed with Julia. Not once do I believe he woke up and saw the real Nina after 25 years. He saw the real Nina and didn't care for the past 25 years.

She was loyal to Arturo and help develop Arturo's business. While I don't think and never thought she should get HALF of Grupo Montenegro, she should get a sizeable amount and I'm satisfied with her keeping the house. You'd be angry too if your husband of 25 years decided to toss you aside to be with his old girlfriend from his youth. She's not the best mother, no but she doesn't hate/despise/dislike any of the children except Miguel who is not her child. The disarray of the Montenegro children is not solely Nina's fault; Arturo shares half of the blame (and ALL of the blame when it comes to Nina/Miguel).

In the end, I think Nina, Daniela, Erick, Marintia & Franco will end up dying, Connie, Miguel & Erick Jr. will end up fleeing and Arturo & Eladio will end up destroying each other. And Julia will end up alone.
 

On a happier note...

My Suggested Endings:

After fighting extradition to the US for a kickback hydro electric dam (?) scheme, Arturo plea bargains for a reduced sentence in Mexico City's toughest prison. Finding that his loyal wife of 25 years, Nina, remains at his side, he welcomes her visits. (Even in these circumstances, she doesn't tone down her wardrobe!) They share photos and family jokes until he is released on good behavior where they resume their marriage in his family home. Children and nietos visit frequently.

Julia and Eladio divorce. A few years later, Eladio, now greying, finds himself at a the closing of a GLM apartment complex. Julia has sold all the units! They laugh, talk, shed tears and go for a drink together (next to our patio tables so we can see FC in person) As the evening ends, we see them leave together hand in hand and are left to assume they have reunited joyfully.

Regina with Jorge FF>>>

Daniela with David FF>>>

Consuelo with Miguel FF>>>

Gabi with Augustin FF>>>

Marintia with Caridad in Argentina

Erick and Franco in prison in the US, don't want them to escape a Mexican prison.
 

Sandy, while I'm a bit uncomfortable that Arturo ends up in prison in your scenario (while Eladio does not), I thought your endings very creative :)

I particularly liked your vision of Julia and Eladio's reconciliation after the passage of time. Time does heal and perhaps they will come to terms with the past and readied (steeled themselves) for the future.

There's still the pesky situation of sweet Mateo. I'm just wondering how many secrets it will take before Julia just resigns herself to the fact she just won't hear the truth from Eladio's lips no matter how much she loves him.

Diana
 

Arturo never truly loved Nina. He mistook his sex drive for it for a while but time and maturity eventually tells you that this isn't enough. The two of them may have improved each other's lives for a while, but that didn't last.

Nina's wardrobe has certainly improved (that green number from last night was excellent) but the inner woman has not.

I can't see that many deaths at the end of this story. I also don't think that Arturo could be prosecuted in the US for a deal made in Mexico, especially when he can hold Assmore's affair with Daniela over his head. Or Daniela's downfall, which is very possible given Assmore's most recent threat.

Nor should Arturo be stuck with Nina for the rest of his life.

I can see Franco dying before this is over. His rap sheet is so full of transgressions that affect so many people (Gabriela, Julia, Caridad, David, Mateo, Marintia, Eladio) that he might be the most deserving of death. I'm not counting Clara because firing her was actually doing her a favor.

Eladio is likely to die also and perhaps by his own hand whether directly or as the result of the arson I've been predicting for ages. He has predicted his own death so many times already.

Are we really going to need a separate Karmageddon discussion? Unless there are some strange plot twists coming up we might not.
 

I'm hoping if Eladio does try to kill himself or is about to die in an arson of his own making that at the last minute Art swoops in and saves him, ending the feud once and for all.
 

I liked the green dress that Julia had on last night and the Navy blue one that she wore the night before. They were both nicely fitted and had beautiful lace accents. I did not notice Nina's dress. I miss a lot because I am trying to read while watching this novela. I have noticed that these four crazy folks locked into this triangle still always manage to have perfect hairdo, makeup, and wardrobe despite their angst.
 

I think that the only people who might die are Err, Franky, and possibly Dani. If only Eladio and Art could just have a duel to see who wins the damsel's hand . I hate to watch people wasting their lives. Life is short. Get on with it. And somebody,anybody, please stop those two young bucks who seem to think that they are smarter than anyone. Basta. Those two oxygen wasters need a wake up call, and they have to pay for all the harm that they have done. Eladio and Art have both messed up big time with their sons , and I am afraid that they are both going to have to pay some way for not being good father's and showing their sons how to be good men.
 

Great recap UA, rich with detail and very much appreciated! I'm sure DD would approve.

Initially Caridad had my sympathy but I have always believed the moment she took the job at GLA it wasnt just about Franco. It always struck me as a way to be near Eladio and gauge his life/marriage. She is proving to be very cunning and manipulative all behind the veneer of looking out for her son. I stated in another thread that I felt she had deliberately trapoed Eladio years ago and she uses Franco now as a way to be in Eladios life. She is a bottom feeder.

Regina bores me. Seriously stop whining and do something. At least Dani has stated her terms..its in full view of everyone. She loves David, Regina had her chance again and again and she walked away, Dani gets her parents are going to live their lives and so is she.

I think Miguel has a good heart but I think he has a lot of growing up and living to do...away from Consuelo. Maybe he loves the idea of a life like what he dreams and its misplaced on the first female who was ever kind to him (aside from Regina).

David is definitely his mothers son. They hurt and react in ways that are not good. Both want to love and be loved.

I see Eladio as who Julia really loves. If they can rectify the situation with Marintia/Mateo and realize the manipulation of Franco; and to an extent Caridad who has her hands all over some of this mess. I feel that Eladio is hugely changed as evidenced by his willingness go give Julia her freedom and anything else she wants. Contrast to Art who was willing to leave Nina with nothing at one point.





 

Hmmm.I have been going back and forth between caraycaray and a site where people discuss Outlander. Someone there just brought up Aristotle and the concept of the tragic hero who has a tragic flaw and finally recognizes it. Do you think that Eladio is the tragic hero ? Is that why some of you think that he will die cin the end? Yikes.Has Eladio been on the classic hero's journey? I don't want him to die.
 

Susanlynn, yeah I think that's it. If he had stayed the abuser from day 1 then all of us would be protesting for his demise. Now that he has rehabilitated himself I think the writers will have him die just so that we feel bad. All manipulation of our feelings. There has to be one tragic death right? Erick, Franco, Hummy, Mari, none count as tragic. If Dani dies, and she may well now that she too has rehabilitated herself, then we would have one man and woman tragically die.
 

Susanlynn, they are already paying. Arturo is paying now and Eladio will pay later, but Eladio is likely to pay bigger because his sins against his family are far greater.

Arturo was a faithful husband for 25 years despite the circumstances of the marriage. He was only a superficial father but not a toxic one. Eladio abused his wife for 25 years, fooled around with other women, lied to her about other things, and was a toxic father to both his sons (in different ways). It will be interesting to see how far Franco's financial scheme will go before Eladio finds out.
 

Delilah63, I agree with about half of your post.

Caridad admitted pregnancy entrapment but that didn't mean she deserved the delayed release from a prison sentence she didn't deserve. She probably learned more cunning in the Big House but Eladio figures her out pretty well. It was a mistake for him to take her back into the office to keep an eye on her because it increased the risk of the world finding out about them. She is delusional if she thinks she can get him back.

Where she lost my sympathy was when she became Marintia's co-conspirator. She is either a total hypocrite or a fool if she thought she could continue to hide anything about Marintia's baby and still eat at Gabriela's table. She ultimately got Eladio involved in this secret and when Julia finds out about it that blows everything for Eladio. Do you think Caridad is cunning enough to realize that? As I type this I am leaning toward a "Yes." The worst of this will be how hurt Gabriela will be.

Daniela may have stated terms in front of everyone, but that doesn't mean she is telling the truth when she says she loves David. She is a narcissist just like her mother and narcissists always have a shaky relationship with the truth. I don't think she's mature enough to know what she wants other than constant male attention and I don't see her as being capable of sustaining a relationship over any extended period of time.

Regina is afraid of losing both parents. I've said before that there are many people her age and older who can't deal with the idea of their parents divorcing or moving on in their love lives. They all have to get over it. I think David is getting there although maybe not for the right reasons. However, with him now dating Daniela I would definitely advise Regina against taking him back no matter how he still feels. I think Julia has the right instincts about him still loving Regina.

I agree that Miguel has growing up to do. He's probably still a virgin and may not have ever been on a date. He's made a number of serious tactical errors throughout this story which were the result of low self-esteem and impaired social skills. He needs to work on those. Maybe he should step away from Consuelo for a while longer, but they seem destined for each other.

BTW, this actor was in my first series on this blog, La Fuerza del Destino as a similarly challenged fellow who was a virgin when he married the town slut and couldn't perform on the wedding night. He took a lot of heat for that.

Finally, I think Julia should be on her own at the end. In the real world the Eladios don't go to shrinks and if they do it takes years to undo their twisted emotions into something viable. This was very irresponsible on the writers' part to have him do an about-face. This doesn't undo 25 years of abuse, either. I also think that most shrinks would have advised that they not live together for the duration of the therapy.

The ongoing 21-year deception about Franco is so huge on top of the ongoing abuse that she should take Eladio to the cleaners in the divorce. The deception about Mateo compounds and extends this.
 

continued from previous post because it was too long:

I don't take Arturo's threat to leave Nina with nothing seriously. That was on par with the many arguments we get in other series where people call each other names we viewers wouldn't forgive. He knew he wouldn't be able to do that and Augustin reminded him. The post-nup that Arturo's father forced Nina to sign behind his back is most likely not legally enforceable (as in "signed under duress"). He could give her 30% of his assets without hurting financially and she would still be able to live well although she would likely lose her "position" (no matter what her financial settlement was) because that was always connected to him.

He still should see a shrink before any new relationship whether that will be with Julia or anyone else. He will need that for other reasons when Erick and Daniela both fall.
 

UA,

Thanks for yet another of your generous rich epic recaps.

As far as Miguel goes, I think that he was one of those unfortunate creepy unlikable kids who grew up to be an unfortunate creepy unlikable adult.

Something I don't understand is the rather general ubiquitous approbation that Agustín enjoys here. His hands are definitely not entirely clean. His lusting after Gabriela without at least some reasonably believable predicate for it is icky. He has been drooling over her since that first time he set eyes on her (not entirely unlike Miguel's lust for his sister-in-law). He supports Arturo's bizarre obsession with Julia. He abets Arturo by assisting in hiding his assets from Nina. He was complicit in Arturo suborning the testimony of a witness resulting in Erick avoiding facing justice for Montserrat's death. He remained silent about Dani's unfortunate adventure in that hotel room. He was asked to look into the Mayan deal that Erick presented and gave it his thumbs up. Perhaps worst of all is his thinking that his hairdo is in anyway attractive.

UA,

Your apparent total lack of sympathy for the poor immature Dani is a bit disturbing if not downright chilling:

"Assmore will do something to Daniela; I can't wait to see what."

Carlos
 

This comment has been removed by the author.
 

Urban---Your recap is so very much appreciated. They are always full, complete and right on.

I find these folks very frustrating and I need this to be over---Well, not me. I'm
enjoying each and every episode immensely---no NEXT.

Diana---I don't know if you remember or not but way back when most everyone was calling Miguel a creep, a weirdo and a possible pervert, I never became part of that crowd as I never saw him that way at all. To me Miguel was just a mostly unloved and introverted guy that fell in love with Consuelo. At that time, I believe that he was willing to keep his distance, well kind of, because she was married but the more that he saw Erick abuse her, the distance that he had once kept started getting shorter and shorter. I am all for a Consuelo and Miguel pairing. He really loves her and will give her the love that she has never had throughout her basically sad life.

There is a BIG misconception the many, maybe I got off on the wrong Nina track because of something on the Univision website, the novelas promotion, or for some other reason---WRONG! All one had to do is watch her throughout the novela to be able to see her bruja character. But surprise---Nina is now changing for the better.
I have to admit in all honesty that I was starting to believe this as well---until
last night that is. It happened twice. Once when Arturo went after Erick. Within seconds the bruja that had been starting to leave Nina suddenly was back in full force to defend her wonderful Erick. Check out her facial expressions during that scene whish by the way ended up as ALWAYS, Nina and son against Art.
It happened again when Regina (the last rung on the family ladder) DARED to question
darling Erick. It didn't take long for the bruja to come against Regina. Nina's changing for the better? It wasn't evident last night.

NEXT??? NO! Must see tv
the gringo
 

Now, now, Carlos, let he \she who has not experienced drooling lust cast the first stone. I do agree that Auggie has done some shady stuff for his bff, but he is always the guy cleaning up after every fool...and those blue eyes! I agree that he has questionable taste in hairstyles, but with that thick head of salt and pepper hair, I could give him any number of flattering styles. How about some long Fabio locks? #you're welcome
 

Is anyone familiar with the term "hamartia?" From Aristotle's Poetics? It refers to the protaganist's error (resulting from ignorance or judgement) or a flaw in character or sin that leads to a chain of plot actions culminating in a reversal of good fortune to bad. Uh oh
 

Gringo..."an unloved and introverted guy"....bingo. I think that is a spot on description of Pobrecito Miguel. I am hoping that the quiet creepiness is revealed as devotion and still waters running deep. Come on Miguel, get smart and proactive.
 

About Caridad,

"...a prison sentence she didn't deserve."

If you think about it, we only have her word for this. The victim of her aggression didn't live to give his side of the story. She has proven time after time that she is not quit the meek honorable woman we have presumed her to be and that she is certainly not above the occasional lie that suits her purpose.

Carlos
 

Urban,
Thanks for the excellent recap. It is a joy to read them. Also, thanks for filling in. I am still reading the comments, but had to thank you before it gets too late.

Diana,
I am sitting next to you at the Miguel table. I have always liked the nerdy character. I also am waiting for Gaby to find out the truth so she can leave Franco and get with Augustin. I hate that it's taking forever.

Hasta Pronto!
 

Carlos I tend to agree with you. We dont know what secrets Cari is hiding. Was it really self defense? Or was it that she wanted her then returned husband out of the way permanently? I'm not ready to see Cari as some innocent victim in anything. The woman is a metiche and pushy and certainlys is evidenced by her actions; calculating and wants her cake and eat it too.

UA, i agree that Dani is a liar and its going to cost her big time in some way, I think she has suffered her own neglect, courtesy of the dysfunction between her parents and Nina's shallow narcissistic guidance. I feel she wants to experience love and for the first time perhaps in her dating life shes seeing someone who is good and will treat her the way she may have always wanted to be treated. David is respectful and kind and encouraging of her to be more than the party girl. I would bet this is as well as the true foundation of her parents marriage and to that end who her mother really is; is all a new revelation for her. Pity how she and Regina were shaped by their parents and pitted against each other.

Nina being left with nothing? I doubt it as well but had she continued to push I doubt Art would have been so generous. It's because he thinks he is winning Julia that he can be so magnanimous. After all he will just build a better newer mansion.

In terms of fatherhood I dont think Hummy,Art or Eladio will get any awards. All three have hurt their children to varying degrees.

Did anyone else think it odd the mention of the storm? could this be what takes out Dani? If she is traveling to a location shoot, then tragedy en route?

 

I wonder about the Gabi/Aug relationship. Did the writers cool perhaps notgwtting tge feedback they wanted? I never saw the sparks. I still say Aug/Con were always prettier together. I was robbed,

No matter how it ends. FC has done fine work and I'm sure the best is yet to come. Eladio was and continues to be a very multifaceted character/villain.
 

Franco is obviously heading towards a slippery slope & nobody's going to save him!
 

I think they're going to cancel the photo shoot. That takes away the set-up for Daniela's intent to seduce David all over again.

As for Caridad, I think she started out naive and became cunning over time. People don't stay the same all their lives unless they are narcissists like Nina (and they only get worse as they age). Caridad did 20 years in prison and I don't think you come out of that the same way you went in (at least not the first time).

Augustin hasn't been pursuing Gaby since the wedding and I had been hoping he would look for someone his own age. I do agree that he needs a new haircut but I don't know that Fabio-length lair (like on today's illustration) would look right in his color. He should also not have kept his mouth shut about that hotel incident; he should have told Arturo right away.
 

Delilah..Yeah ..The mention of the storm, and Dsni wants David to meet her at the beach? ??? Yikes
 

UA, This is a superb recap. I enjoyed this better than watchin the show. When I first started watchin this show I was really hatin Eladio. I thought he was the worst person on the show, he had this crazy tick, the crazy eyes with the hands to match, I couldn't stand him. I was thinkin auturo was the good guy. I don't like auturo, hes a crook in a suit. They kinda had him comin off like the good guy. His good is tarnished. Now eladio has his evil side, but he seems to be .....lookin at himself from the inside seeing who he is, and not likin it. What yall think? is he changing, or what? Of course he still has issues about franco and caridid and marintia and little mateo.

But he loves himself some julia. But just like he says, he has to love her enough to let her be happy with someone else. Even If Its arturo or alone. See arturo is selfish that way. He don't care about pain hes caused the one he loves. If he did he'd set the record straight. That he and julia were not having an affair. But that worked in his favor. If he had wanted to he could have explained that to everybody about there not being an affair. Crook in a suit.

These people are haunted by their own ghostly pasts, and its screwin up the present not to mention the lives of everybody around them. How many more episodes before the end?
Franco is turning out to be more evil-er than his dad. Well he learned from the best how to lie and be cruel and just all-around evil. And all with a straight face. His undoing is going to be great.

O and have I mentioned I can"t erick (chimpboy). Where'd he get that nickname from? he's a product of his screwed-up parents.


 

There could be another murder. Assmore....dead. just guessing. Anythings possible with this show. He just looks like he's about to get murdered by somebody.
 

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