Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Pasión y Poder Martes 4/26/16 #133


Chapter 133: Shattered

Tragedy happens to us all. Money, beauty, power, and position may think they are immune, but they are not. They will suffer just as much and will do their best to hide it in the process. Women will usually suffer behind closed doors while men maintain as stiff an upper lip as they can, at least in public. Healing takes its own time for everyone willing to learn a valuable human lesson. – D.D.

With tears in his eyes, Arturo told Julia he could not continue their relationship.
I have to put some order into my life. I don't know where to begin,” he said.
The only thing I want to tell you is that I don't want to leave you alone,” she answered. “I want to be with you while you're going through these difficult times.”
He turned away from her as though he didn't want her to see his tears get worse. “Julia, this would just make things more complicated than they are. I don't know what to do.”
I will be at your side. I'll be there as a friend to help you, to do whatever it takes.”
What I need now is recover my relationship with my children. That is what I have to do.” He turned around to face her again. “But that does not mean that I have stopped loving you. My children need me. My love for you has to wait.”
I know,” Julia said as she nodded in agreement. She held his hand and cried.
Thank you.”


Regina thanked David for the memory card.
I know my mother will appreciate the photos.”
I hope so,” he said.
She is on the edge. She doesn't want to get up, even to accompany her grandson to the hospital.”
What happened to your nephew?”
It's a long story. He must get better; we're very anxious.”
He'll be alright. It's just a question of time. This all happened so fast I can't believe it.”
Me neither.”
I don't like to see you suffer like this. Believe me I'd go far to help.”
David, it hurts to see you.”
I guess it reminds you of Daniela.”
Thanks.” They embraced.

Gabriela sat on a bench with Diego, whom she stayed up with. He obviously was feeling better because he wanted to play soccer with Augustin. In fact he wanted more.
Gaby, I want a mama like you and a papa like Augustin.”
Gabriela was a little uncomfortable at such candor. She knew she had to face more of that on her own.

Nina was sitting on Daniela's bed looking at the photos on a laptop. She cried at the modeling photo shoot pictures as she talked about how beautiful and lively Daniela was.
She was so beautiful and knew how to live life.”
Yes, but maybe she lived too fast for her own good,” Regina said. She turned away and walked away from the bed.
Don't talk about anymore about your sister. I knew she was happy.” She continued crying. “She was in love. I will never forget you, Dani, never.”
Regina had crouched on the floor near the dresser. She had always been in the background in favor of Daniela and this would not change for the forseeable future. She was also worried about her mother.

Franco was in the conference room near David's office to check up on him.
This is like a nightmare,” David told him.
Yes, but I'm sure with time and distance you'll wake up from it, David.” He was twirling the large dice block on the desk. “And since you're going to work on the Maya Riviera project you can forget it all.”
I hope so,” David said. They clasped hands.
If there's anything I can help you with, ask. You're my brother. And if you want to move far away I can sell your shares for you, or whatever.”
No, no, no, Franco.” He stared and got up. “I have no intention of selling the shares Father game me.”
I know, bro, but this would be the best moment to do it. I can get you a better price, an incredible one. It's a lot of money –”
David was so incredulous he almost shouted. “Do you actually think my head is in a place right now to think about money? To sell company shares?” He took a breath. “Forgive me. Forgive me. I'm grateful, brother, really, but right now I don't want to touch that matter at this moment in my life. I hope you'll understand.”
Yes.”
He stepped out. Franco touched his shoulder as he walked out to show support. But he was disappointed.

Nina was still in Daniela's bed looking at the photos on the laptop. She wore no cosmetics and looked as though it had been weeks rather than days she she last had a decent night's sleep. Miguel opened the door and stepped halfway inside.
Nina, may I come in? I'm sorry to bother you but I just wanted to advise you that we're going to visit the baby.”
How is the baby?” she asked without looking up.
Very well.” He closed the door quietly. “He's out of danger. Consuelo doesn't want to be separated from him. I'm going to the hospital. Don't you want to come?”
Nina shut the computer down and put it aside. She picked up the urn that held Daniela's ashes and held it as though it were a baby.
No. I don't want to leave her alone.”
Miguel knelt at the foot of the bed.
Daniela never will feel alone,” he said. “We're all here. We're here to live for those who need us.”
Nina shook her head and continued to embrace the urn.
I don't have the strength for myself. Miguel, forgive me. Now I understand how lonely you felt without your father and how I did nothing to help you. Forgive me.”
Miguel got up and embraced her. “Hearing this makes me feel better. But we have time to be a family.” He kissed her hair as she continued to cry.
Erick's timing was, as always, bad. He entered without knocking and stared at the older half-brother he had been taught to despise. He closed the door and approached.
How lovely. Really, I wouldn't have missed this for the world. That Miguel would take my place. How lovely.”
No, Erick,” said Nina. “Miguel is taking care of what you never knew how to value.”
Erick grinned for a moment, then became his usual bully-boy self.
Why do you say that? Look, think about it. Are you going crazy or what?”
Miguel looked at him in disbelief. He slowly stood up.
Please, do not talk that way to your mother, Erick.”
Erick grabbed Miguel and almost threw him away from the bed. “Don't interfere –”
Enough!” shouted Nina. “Enough.” She stared at Erick. “Don't mess with Miguel.”
My god, are you serious?” Erick asked, almost laughing. “Now you are defending –”
Yes. Yes. You want to know why? Because he is behaving more like a son to me than you.”
Miguel closed his eyes for a moment, as though he could not believe what he had heard. The stepmother who had insulted and abused him for so long was defending him to her spoiled son who had done the same under her tutelage.
Daniela decided to die rather than be like you.”
Nina slapped Erick with more strength than she thought she had. Erick rolled with the slap and grinned at the rise he had gotten out of her.
Get out! Get out!” she said as she began crying again. Miguel went to her side.
She loves you because she's your mother, Erick.”
Erick was stopped from thinking of another insult when Arturo and Regina entered.
Why did you do that, Erick?” Arturo asked.
Because you're always thinking I'm guilty,” he said.
I have many reasons to think so. Your mother has told you that you are not welcome here. Therefore, get out.” He nodded toward the open door. “I repeat. I don't want to see you again.”
Are you forgetting all the years that I worked for you?”
Excuse me? You were at my side but you never did anything worthwhile. I should have stopped being in denial about your incompetence a long time ago.”
You know what, Arturo Montenegro?” he asked. “I will show you who I am. And you will regret not respecting me for the rest of your life. Thanks for my place, Papa.”
He walked out. Arturo stood firm without a change of expression. He saw that Nina was crying and Miguel was comforting her.
We've not only lost Dani, we've lost Erick. We won't get over this.”
He rubbed his eyes as Regina embraced him from behind and leaned on his shoulder.

Julia visited David at work.
How are you feeling, son?”
More or less.”
My love, I think it's a little early to go back to work. Why don't you just rest a few days?”
No, no. I need activity. I need to do things.” He opened up the plans to show her. “Shortly I will be working on the Maya Riviera project –”
Do you think Regina can help you?”
No, Mother. Regina has a boyfriend. She didn't end the relationship, she only asked for time to think about the proposal.”
David, do you think that perhaps –”
No, please, don't insist; I beg you. I need to get away. Far away. I also have to be far away from Regina, and also I would also avoid having to see you near Arturo Montenegro.”
Julia sighed and stood up.
David, Arturo and I aren't together.”
Regina saw you kissing.”
No. What Regina saw was a kiss Arturo gave me.”
It's the same, Mother. If Arturo kissed you it was because he wanted you to love him so he could divorce Daniela's mother.”
No. You are judging me very harshly.”
I'm sorry. I can't do otherwise. Excuse me. You met in Las Vegas, what was I supposed to think? How could it not be true that –”
Because that is not true. It was a coincidence, like I told you. We didn't see each other for the reason you're imagining.”
I'm listening. Talk. I'll listen.”

Children, leave me alone with your mother.”
Miguel and Regina silently left the room and closed the door. Nina continued to hug the urn.
On top of everything bad I did to Miguel, he showed he loved me. Why?” She started crying.
Perhaps we will have to live with this question for the rest of our lives. He has learned well how to forgive us.”
I don't know how he could. What I did was unbearable. I never loved him.” She cried harder until she became impossible to understand. Arturo embraced her and she cried against his chest as he could barely understand what was happening.

Consuelo and Augustin were visiting the baby in the hospital. They wore blue surgical scrubs and latex gloves as they watched the baby in the incubator. He looked far better than he had a few hours previously.
At last my son is recovering. Really, I want to thank you for all your help,” Consuelo said.
With pleasure. Also I'm interested to see my godson get well.”
Erick intruded here as well. He was accompanied by a man wearing a badge.
And what do you want now?” Consuelo asked, prepared for battle.
I only came to get my son.”
You're not taking him,” said Augustin. “He is ill.”
No, you see,” he said, putting his hand on the other man's shoulder. “I am the only one who has the legal right to make decisions about my son. Don't interfere. I'm taking him right now.”

Eladio went to the mansion. Julia wasn't expecting him.
Why did you come here?” she asked him.
I won't talk in circles. David told me you are not involved with Arturo.”
I don't know how to tell you so you'll understand. I only do it so that someday you'll hear me. I feel –”
I feel the same way. Now that I know you're not with him I want to ask you to return to me. Julia, come back to me. I love you.”

Although you have custody you can't take him,” said Augustin. He picked up a folder and handed it to the man with the badge. “Because Consuelo has emergency authority over the baby's health.”
This document is correct,” he told Erick. “She made the decision to protect the baby's life.”
Okay, very well,” said Erick with an insincere smile. “But I see that the baby is alright it's not valid anymore.”
We'll prove that you put the baby's life at risk. You don't have the capacity to see that.” Consuelo looked him in the eye. As did Augustin.
Look how you're dressed. You're in an intensive care unit –”
It doesn't matter what you think or anybody else because I'm taking my son.”
He went toward the incubator. Consuelo stepped into his path. The man with the badge watched Erick out of the corner of his eye. Erick was smirking.
You're not taking my son,” Consuelo said. “You'd have to kill me.”
You would be better off accepting this,” Augustin said. “Because we'll go to another judge to demonstrate that you should not get your son back.” He glared at Erick.

I'm sorry. I'm sorry because I can't. I can't because I've made a decision.”
What decision?”
That I need time alone.”
Why? Don't tell me you're confused.”
No, I'm not confused. No. Now I know exactly what I have to do and what I have to do is to be independent. Of you, of my father, my son, Arturo. Of all. I will leave this house and live only on what I earn in a place where I pay everything.”
Do you understand that if you do this you will hurt others? I do this with all my love –”
I am not doing this to hurt you. I swear. The only thing I want is to live in accordance with my reality. I hope you understand, please.”
This is your home and it will be ready for you whenever you want to return.”
No. I can't guarantee you I will return. It would be better for you to sell it because I will leave tomorrow.”
Eladio shook his head. He couldn't believe this, at least for the moment.

You can do whatever you want, Augustin,” said Erick. “I have the rights and powers over that baby. You can't leave here with him.”
Consuelo was more than fed up with his arrogance. “Do whatever you want, but my son doesn't leave here without me. Do you understand me?”
You can't take him. Now you are here against the law, or not?” Augustin looked at the other man, who nodded when Erick looked at him.
For the moment you can't do anything.”
It doesn't matter,” said Erick. “If you believe that you have my parents' help the baby goes with you it won't be that way.” He dropped his voice to a whisper while approaching Consuelo until no one else could hear. “If you disobey me one more time I will do something you will regret for the rest of your life.”
Consuelo would not be intimidated.
Just so you know: Your father has security personnel in your office so that you can't do a damned thing against my child. Now get out of here.”
Erick grinned his childish smirk at her and backed off slowly. He waved sarcastically toward Augustin and left the room.

Arturo entered Daniela's room followed by Regina and a female social worker.
Come in, please.”
I don't want to see anybody,” said Nina.
Mother, Dad contacted a specialist to talk to you.”
I don't want to talk to a stranger about my daughter's death.”
Nina, please,” said Arturo. “You can't continue like this. Listen to her for a moment.”
I don't want to.”
It hurts me to see you like this. Let me help you.”
Now you're worried?” she demanded. “Now you're worried about the family you made suffer? All this is your fault!” She started crying. “Daniela is dead and it's your fault. Get out of here.” She turned away. “Go away, all of you. Leave me alone.”
The social worker put her hand on Arturo's shoulder and nodded, knowing that Nina was unwilling to be helped. The three silently walked out and Arturo slowly closed the door behind him.

Humberto had come down and heard enough to know something was going on. Julia then told him he needed to prepare his things because they were leaving in the morning. He was a little agitated.
But where are we going?”
We're going to an apartment I found in town that is within our means.”
No. I refuse. I have never lived in an apartment, daughter. I won't leave here unless Eladio is going to help me.”
What hurts me and what I don't understand is what you're now saying to Julia,” Eladio said.
Ah... then let me stay here until the apartment is ready.”
Julia looked at her father with an expression of doubt mixed with some suspicion.
Here is everything we need. Laundry, an elevator... don't you agree, Eladio?”
No,” he said, shaking his head. “No. Julia has given the answer.”
Daughter?”
Julia ignored him and looked at Eladio.
Well, then until the apartment is ready –”
It'll be what you decide.”
Thanks.”
Eladio looked displeased and was definitely so at the prospect of his former father-in-law under the same roof.

The following morning Julia was about to leave. Eladio caught her taking her suitcases down the stairs.
Take care of my father, please,” she asked him.
I don't believe you're carrying those yourself. They remind me of the first time we met. Don't you remember?”
No.”
You were leaving Hotel Montenegro and I was the [ ]”
Yes. It's a nice memory I have of you.”
I have many beautiful memories. If you want –”
Please, Eladio, don't talk any more. This is too difficult. Oh, my God.” She looked up the stairs and around the second floor gallery. “My god.”
Julia –”
Please, Eladio. I beg you to see what significance this place has for me and for you. Please respect my decision.”
I will.”
Thank you.”
She pulled her suitcases outside and the security guards put them in the trunk of her car. Eladio watched from a second-floor balcony as Julia's car turned and pulled out of the circular driveway.

Little Diego was happy to see Augustin and wasn't afraid to show Gabriela.
Does Augustin have to be married to adopt me?”
No,” she told him.
Augustin, would you like to adopt me?” he asked.
I would love to but I'd really prefer you to have a father and a mother. Tell me, when's your birthday?”
Ooo, it's in April.”
Augustin did a little mental calculation before answering.
Alright, so if I'm not married by then we'll see.”
They high-fived each other and Diego went off to play with the other children. Gabriela escorted Augustin out.
If you weren't thinking about getting married, don't give Diego fantasies.”
I'm serious. I have been thinking about adoption. I don't want another woman, but I'd like to be a father.”
Well, if you're really serious, I believe you, too.”
I am serious, when I have the right woman in my life.”
He moved in to kiss her but she pulled back.
Augustin...”
I'm sorry.”
He pulled back, disappointed.

Eladio picked up a framed photo of Julia.
Now you should be happy,” he said sarcastically to Humberto. “She left you here. Do you realize that if it were not for your daughter you'd be out on the street cursing your fate?”
Don't think of me as being disloyal to my daughter; think of it as showing loyalty to you.”
You are a wretch,” he said, putting the photo down on the desk.
If she visits me before you sell this house you can find a way to see her, too. I'll let you know when I'll see her. This worked before.”
How many times must I tell you I'm not making a deal with you?”
Don't tell me that you've changed that much with these therapies of yours.”
I have no doubt that to you I've been the same. But as for Julia I will protect her from anyone, including you.”
He left the study. Humberto waited until he was far enough away to take out his cell phone to call Arturo to update him on this situation. Arturo thanked him and said he would call Julia later.
I know at this moment your family is your top priority for the horrible thing that happened. But neither would you want to leave my daughter unprotected because she is all alone.”
Don't worry about that. I won't leave her that way.”
Humberto chuckled like a villain in an old movie. “Thanks.” Then he ended the call.

Later, around dinner time, David visited Julia at her new apartment.
I'm fine! I'm happy!” she told him. She caressed his face. “How are you?”
Well, trying to get over Dani.”
What about Regina?”
I don't know how to tell you. I feel bad. I feel like the worst of all men because now because Dani's death makes it impossible to be with Regina.
Ay, son, I feel for you. Nothing hurts worse than not being able to be with the person you love.”
I know. But in this case Regina and I couldn't be together for external reasons, not because of how we feel. Because of what happened with you and Arturo and now with my father.”
David, why don't you go after Regina? Go after her, tell her that you love her –”
She knows; I've told her very clearly. But, Mother, after what happened with Dani it's impossible for me and Regina to be together. It would make her uncomfortable and disloyal to her family. It doesn't matter that it makes us feel bad; it's disloyalty.”
Julia embraced her son and kissed his head.
You don't know how much it hurts me that things happened this way, David.”
Me, too. It hurts my soul. But now I know that it can never be. I have to figure out how to manage the rest of my life.”
Julia started to say something, but stopped herself. She didn't agree with David but he wasn't willing to listen at that moment.

The next day Augustin spoke with Graciela, the social worker at the foundation. He wanted their conversation to remain confidential. She didn't understand why but Gabriela arrived so this conversation ended.
Hi, Augustin, what are you doing here? We don't get many visitors.” Gabriela asked with a smile. In the short dress with her center-parted hair she looked more like she could be his daughter than the woman he wanted to marry. He didn't have an chance to answer her because Franco arrived unexpectedly.
Exactly what the hell are you doing here accosting my wife?” he shouted.

Julia unpacked a few purchases on her dining table. The apartment was still very bare as she had been there less than a full day and night. The doorbell rang and she looked through the peephole before opening the door to Arturo.
Arturo! What a surprise. How did you know I was living here?”
I just called the house. Your father told me where you were.”
I'm sorry, please come in.” She closed the door behind him as he walked in. “I thought you told me you decided to be alone.”
Yes, and I meant it. I just want to add to what I said yesterday. I don't want you far, Julia. I have to be with my family now but neither can I be without you.” He looked around. “You can't be here. There must be something better.”
I'm fine.”
It's just that this place isn't worthy of you.”

If I am here to see your wife it's only because of working at the foundation and trying to save her marriage.”
That doesn't answer my question.”
Look, I don't have to answer you. Gabriela, I'm leaving. And if I leave it's to not cause more problems for Gabriela.” He started to leave but Franco blocked his exit.
You and I haven't stopped talking.”
I have nothing to talk about with you.”
Franco blocked him again and Gabriela stepped in between them.
Franco, please,” she said, holding him back.
Augustin excused himself and left. Franco waited until he was out of earshot.
What was that imbecile doing here? Was he bringing you flowers?”
Alright, what you say is true. If you were interested in me you'd know my priority is to save our marriage. But you're just like my uncle. He only cares about things when he believes he's losing them. You'd better go, please.”
No. Don't try to make me the guilty one about our marriage not working. I just left a lot of work to come to see you and resolve this stupidity.”
Oh, please!”
She turned around and went back inside.

You and I have something except this situation hurts a lot. Please, right now put your family in order. It's very important.”
Yes, yes, I will. It's going to be... well, I just want you to know that I'm here if you need me.”
I'm grateful. Thanks.”
He opened the door to see Eladio on the other side before he had a chance to knock. He was holding a white rose.
I don't understand you, Julia. When you left the house you said one thing and it looks now that you are doing something else.”
Arturo looked back at Julia and she folded her arms.
No. What I have been working hard to say to both of you is that I have to be independent. I can't measure my success on what comes from any man. What I am making clear is that I want to move up on my own means. That's the deal. What I am feeling now from your behavior is being treated like an object. Or like a business deal. You know what? I'm fed up.”

Franco went back to the office. He and Marcos were walking back to his office and talking. They did not see Justino, who was kneeling on the floor installing something.
What happened?” Marcos asked him.
We only talked about our problems.” He clapped him on the shoulder. “Marquitos, I'll need more money to continue with our plan.”
More? Where am I going to get it from?” he asked. He was terrified.
Where? Where?” He took the accountant's glasses off. “You know perfectly well where from.” He cleaned the glasses. “And I will need it very fast because I have to make my father sell more shares.” He put Marcos' glasses back on. “Alright? Alright?”
Yes, yes,” said the meek little man. He was shaking like Leo Bloom again as they continued on to Franco's office. “To get more money we'll have to...”
They were on the spiral staircase when David arrived. Justino got up to meet him.
How are you?”
Good, and you? Are you ready for the Maya Riviera?”
Yes. But I have something to tell you about Franco and Marcos.”

What? To me you are neither a business deal nor an object,” said Eladio.
You are the love of my life, Julia,” said Arturo.
Good. Therefore this is the best moment to demonstrate that neither of you are letting me breathe. Don't persist.” She showed them both out and closed the door.
You know, I can't believe that with your circumstances you can't leave Julia in peace.”
Don't confuse yourself, Eladio. I never had to separate you from Julia.” Eladio started to say something but Arturo interrupted him. “I don't want to argue with you. I couldn't believe how you spoke well of my daughter. You did that to make David feel better and show Julia that you are noble. You didn't convince me.”
Don't sully the memory of your daughter. And if you don't believe me, think about what you want. You look recovered. I hope that's because of work. Because my next blow at your company you won't forget. You're going to run from Eladio Gómez-Luna.”
He left. Arturo watched him walk out.

Clara made a delivery to Gabriela and during their conversation Gabriela realized that Clara was much happier than she had a chance of being.

I'm sure, David. This was the second time I saw them together, Franco and Marcos. And they're discussing money all the time and when they see me they shut up.”
Well, to start with Franco works with Marcos on the expenses and bills.”
Yes, but from what I heard, I'm advising you not to trust them. Really.”

Arturo worked late that night at GM. Regina came into his office with a plan he needed to examine.
Here are the specifications of the project you want to pull out of.”
I want your help with my comments on it and I have something else to tell you. I ended my relationship with Julia.”
Regina paused a second, then smiled slightly. “It's too late, don't you think?”
He looked up.
Daniela is no more, you destroyed my relationship with David. You never thought about me. You didn't want to think about my happiness.”

Humberto watched as Julia swept the floor. He did not approve.
I don't understand why you want to do this like women in the street.”
Well, because I have no other option.”
Of course you do! Yes, daughter!”
Father, I will not accept anything from Eladio or Arturo. That's the deal. Understand that, please.” She put the chairs back against the table. “I want you to see I'm proud to do this and beginning to take care of myself.”
Daughter, what you're doing is fine for a young girl just moving out and living with some friends. Or studying abroad.”
What I want you to know is that you should be grateful to have a roof, you have food. You have a daughter who takes care of you. Your friends, also.”
Yes, but...” he whined.

Daughter, you still love him, don't you? You can be happy.”
Regina rolled her eyes.
Father, how do you think that? Now less than ever can we ever be together. How is it you ended it with Julia after you gave up everything for her?”
I asked for time. I need to be with my children. With you, my love. To help your mother.” He caressed her face. “I love you very much. You're important to me. I'm very worried about Erick. And your mother. Why don't you believe me? It's important that she be alright. She is the pillar of your home.”
But she doesn't want to see you. Besides, how can you be sure you're getting back with Julia if anything else happens? Again? Are you thinking of getting back with Julia?”
That is up to Julia. If your happiness is with David, if you say he is the love of your life, I don't see why you can't go back with him.”
Regina paused just long enough to wipe tears away. “You know what, Father? Forget it. Concentrate on Erick because he's very badly off. And if you get back together with Julia it won't matter to me.”
She left him alone in his office.

Six months later Gabriela recieved bad news.
The treatments didn't work, Franco. We won't be able to become parents.” She started to cry.
Come here, come here,” Franco said, reaching out to her. “Nothing's happened.” He embraced her. “Be calm. We'll be together through all this.”
My love, can we look into adoption?”
No. No. The truth? No.”
But you said we'd talk about it, Franco –”
Yes, yes. I only said that so you wouldn't act hysterical. But the truth is I don't want to take care of children that aren't mine. Not mine. No?”

Regina confronted Nina, who was still staying in Daniela's room. She was also still wearing the black dress she wore at the funeral.
Look, Mother, we will all always miss Daniela. But we have to go on with our lives.”
I don't know how to do that. I don't know how to –”
Mama, by loving us. Love us as you loved her. You have many reasons to live.”
Nina cried. “I don't have the strength. I swear. I can't go on.”
Regina reached to her. “Mama, give me your hands.” Nina obeyed her. “You have to have strength. I need my mother, not Dani. Because I also miss you.”
Nina embraced her daughter and cried. “Ay, forgive me!”
I have nothing to forgive. I love you.”
They cried together.

Why didn't you tell me from the beginning that you didn't want to adopt? Why did you say you did?”
To avoid all this. To not have to deal with your hysterics and your hormone fits..”
That is not true! I never reproached you about the factory and you never gave me the reports about it.”
See? See?” Franco got more sarcastic. “So it happens that your husband robbed you.”
I want to know right now what you did with my money!”
Ask me! Ask me! Make your demands!”
Right now I want to call Augustin and bring a lawsuit! Starting with –”
Franco slapped her hard enough to knock her to the floor.
You're not going to talk to anybody! Especially him!”
Gabriela looked at him and knew she had been duped from the beginning.

Arturo visited Julia, who asked about his children. He said all was well, he is attending his grandson's first birthday. Regina was very busy with work and her fiance.
Erick wants nothing to do with me. In his case I can't do any more. If that changes...”
Yes. Arturo, you are fortunate to have Regina and Miguel. They have always been a great pride to you.”
They are my pride.” He smiled. “Julia, why don't we change our situation?”
What are you referring to?”
You have demonstrated that you can live alone. I've seen you only as a friend.”
Yes. I'm truly grateful. You have respected this all this time.”
Arturo knelt down.
It's that now it's not enough. I love you. [Te amo]. I want us t be a couple.”



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Fear not! I will be back on Thursday with my last installment. With only four hours left to our story I think some secrets will be unrevealed, just as in a few other recent series. There will be lots to talk about after this is over.

Two fashion felonies in this episode and from very unlikely suspects.

Nina really gave Erick one right between the eyes and he deserved it. With the six-month time jump I am guessing that Consuelo didn't tell anyone that he threatened her in the hospital. [Eye roll]

As to Franco, he just sealed his own doom.

Someone mentioned the possibility of Humberto trying to smoke and exploding the oxygen. That happened to the father of a CEO I worked for a long time ago. He had emphysema and because he didn't stop smoking his children couldn't get him into a nursing home. When the explosion finally happened the entire building burned to the ground. He was the only death -- ironically -- thanks to smoke inhalation.
 

Hi UA! I have not read your recap yet or seen the episode, since I'm out here on the west coast. I knew you would not disappoint in posting it muy pronto. So, thank you in advance.

(I'm not sure if I can wait to watch the episode first, in 1.5 hours, or read your recap right now.)

Again, muchisimas gracias!
 

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I don't think anything was missing. What I think is that the writers are doing what they think they need to do now. I will have some theories about it to share on Friday.

There was the six-month time leap between Julia's move and the last scene. Here's hoping tomorrow's episode shows some progress.
 


Thanks, Urban. Terrific recap. You always find the perfect image to relate the story.

Wondering if they chopped this episode. Art drops Julia, gotta mend his family. Then Julia drops Art and Eladio, gotta go it alone for awhile. Then Art is right back again visiting Julia's apartment, let's be a couple.

With that slap, Gaby now has 101 reasons to break up with Franco, even before finding out about Franco Jr. and Marintia. What are the chances Augie will see the bruise Franco left on Gaby's face?

Poor Humberto looked terrified he'd have to lower his living standards with Julia's new independence - lol. Art still being in cahoots with Humberto after losing his daughter is just tacky.
 

Urban - That's right, I forgot about the 6-month time jump.
 

Thank you Urban. An excellent recap.

I was shocked- Justino finally served a purpose. I'm glad he wasn't discovered when he overheard Franco and Marcos speaking. I was also glad he went and told David what he heard.

Tonight we found out that David accepted the GL shares that Eladio gave him. Glad that Franco wasn't able to convince him to sell them.

So after the slap will Gaby finally open her eyes and realize that she's married to a rat bastard?

Two Caridad free episodes. Hallelujah.
 

Thank you, UA. (Romance novel style? Nice.) At least Uni's captions were only about eight seconds behind tonight.

I guess tonight was Julia's turn to adult, or at least try to before the timeskip glossed it over, and between that and Nina's ongoing grief...it still wasn't enough to overcome the overwhelming desire to see Erick and/or Franco kicked in the face. Humberto being Humberto was an unpleasant bonus. I do agree that this is pretty much all writer fiat-level stuff, and Jorge Salinas and Susana Gonzalez and especially Marlene Favela make it work, but at the same time it's still bleakly depressing/irritating.
 

Thanks for the recap UA. Sadly I think you are right about secrets not being resolved at the end.

Nina finally did give Erick his slap. However the best take away from this tn for me as been Nina. The writers and Marlene Favela have given her complicated dimensions. Her grief for Dani and Erick and her remorse for her evil treatment of Miguel. I know I've been away from tns for a while but its seem rare that we get to observe this kind growth and regret in a character.

I also wish the writers had seen fit to allow Julia to "find" her independence earlier instead of being constantly confused. I know its better late than never but think about the possibilities for the character if she had been allowed to stand on her own prior to the final hours.

Niecie, I do hope Gabi does run for the hills away from Franco. She's been verbally abused by him for so long...thankfully is almost the end, otherwise she would become Julia 2.
 

Karen, that is extremely rare because it also so rarely happens in life with people like Nina. She still has to learn to stop blaming others for things she is responsible for or for things that couldn't be helped. Neither she nor Arturo could have helped Daniela. When Daniela stopped telling Nina things she was approaching the point of no return. Her addiction issues would have still taken serious time to deal with if Assmore hadn't attacked her and would also have required daily shrink sessions and no access to drugs or booze.

Consuelo has been Julia 2 and Gabriela is on her way to being Julia 3. They are fortunate in that they're young enough to stop this now. Consuelo needs a restraining order against Ape Child and Gabriela needs to run for it. If she fails to do that she's an idiot. She can go to Augustin to file for divorce and to take Franco to the cleaners. That would provoke an investigation into his financials which could lead to some interesting discoveries.
 

Stunning picture, UA, and an eloquent and wisely observant D.D. prologue. I have certainly enjoyed your Dominick Dunne alter ego...I'm sure there's no physical resemblance! but spiritually you could be his doppelgänger. Simply perfect for this sad story of the rich and miserable.

Will look forward to watching this later today on Hulu where the closed captions are in sync. And even more impatiently to Thursday when we have the three-hour wrap up. Are all the recappers chipping in to help out on the finale marathon, or is NovelaMaven writing it all herself? Sounds absolutely daunting.

As I recall, we had a very long finale for Juan Querendon but one of our recappers set up a system where we could "talk" to each other on the computer during that time and we all wrote a certain portion. Then she pulled it all together.
 

Another well done installment UA. Thanks for this and all the others.

I see no difference in Julia the kept and Julia the independent woman except the color of the walls, just as I see no difference in when she is in or out of a relationship with Art.

The only relationship I have interest in is Nina and Miguel. It is so unlikely yet so natural. I am now a raving Marlene fan

Regina and David make it hard to keep my dinner down.
 

Thank you UA :)

1.) Purple Lips apologizing to Miguel for the evil treatment she did to him for years. Miguel closing his eyes reminds me of one of those "Rosa De La Guadalupe" episodes.

I did see that slap she gave Erick: well-deserved.

2.) Judy B: Aguie is going to see that huge mark on Gaby's face & go nuclear on Franco's butt.

3.) Karen: Marinita's going down very hard. I see Mateo being raised by either Eladio or Gaby.

4.) Bill C: Justino finally told David about the financial scheme of what Franco is doing!

Clara & Gaby having girl talk: interesting.

5.) Niecie: Purple Lips hugging Miguel & Regina: AWWWW :)

6.) Mauricio: Something tells me Erick's going to attack Connie again.

I'm shocked that she didn't tell anyone about the hospital incident from 6 months ago!
 

UA, another enthralling installment. Your work on this TN has been stellar. Your screen shot was perfect as was the summary.

Sometimes out of the ashes of the most punishing fire, comes revelation, regret and a change to begin anew. Miguel comforting Nina. The few precious moments we never thought we would see were quickly shattered by Erick who “…entered without knocking and stared at the older half-brother he had been taught to despise”. As you put it tofie, Miguel and Nina are "so unlikely yet so natural".

The most chilling was “If you disobey me one more time I will do something you will regret for the rest of your life” and the ominous "Because my next blow at your company you won't forget. You're going to run from Eladio Gómez-Luna".

The most doubtful were "I feel like the worst of all men because now because Dani's death makes it impossible to be with Regina". I agree but this IS a TN and someone has to live happily ever after (?)

“I don't understand why you want to do this like women in the street”. Hmm, I have been sweeping since I was able to handle a broom. Who knew?

Karen, I totally agree with your assessment on Nina: "the writers and Marlene Favela have given her complicated dimensions". Very true and well said.

Yes, I am sure Augustin is going to see the bruise that brute Franco inflicted on Gaby. What a shame this is what it took to make her realize what a monster he is.

We've speculated that Clara and Justino were here for a reason...I hope Justino is watchful but careful. The one thing Franco hasn't done yet is murder. Let's not add that to his resume at this late date.

As we've been saying for so long, I have no idea how "this sad story of the rich and miserable" (gracias Judy) is going to end. I have no doubt that there will be a thrilling roller coaster ride before the end.

UA, thank you!

Diana
 

Tomorrow's 3-hour finale will be a joint effort between me, NovelaMaven, and Mauricio. I will assemble the pieces and post when ready.

I am expecting a twisting roller coaster with some inversions. It will probably feel like The Mantis or The Gatekeeper.
 

Thank you UA. What would we do without you?

The most telling line to me was Nina asking Miguel how he could forgive her after what she has done to him, and his brutally honest answer. "You and my Father taught me how to forgive." And in that context it was implied that they unwittingly forced him to forgive out of necessity.

IE: Rotten parents force a child to learn about forgivness, or be a Francofurrter.

So Nina has been piled up in that bed for 6 months? I hope her plastic butt does not take a set, that would look funny, I suspect she is getting pretty ripe too with possibly no showers and the same clothing. Sometimes the most unforgiving person can be yourself.

The smack across the face was the best thing that has happened to Gaby this whole show. Not that hitting people is OK, especially someone much smaller than yourself, but Gaby earned it fair and square. It is much more humane than the brain transplant and functioning pair or eyeballs we have been hoping for. Now Gaby, get to work.
 

Diana, Franco did attempt murder with Erick when he sent Pedro to cut off the brakes to Erick's car which caused his accident.
 

Mauricio, I forgot about that...

Guilty of attempted murder certainly.

Diana
 

Urban, thank you for this and all your exquisitely crafted work on our novela. Shattered is the perfect title. And the image you chose could not be more eloquent.

On Monday, it was Eladio who got to be the wise man, telling Nina not to look for someone to blame. Last night, it was Regina who made it clear to Arturo that Nina couldn't accept comfort from him while knowing that he was likely to abandon her for Julia at the first opportunity. Arturo is the "non-villain" who has grown the least thus far.

It's too bad Justino was so vague in what he told David about Franco and Marco. If only he had repeated some of his words, David might have understood, even if Justino himself did not.

Now we get to see if Gabriela lives up to what she has always said: "I'm not like my aunt – I won't put up with a lifetime of abuse!"

What do we think Agustín said to Graciela? Was he starting adoption proceedings for Diego?

Erick is a loose cannon. I fear he is going to do at least one more appalling thing before he is finally brought down. He makes me very nervous...

Urban, I look forward to working on the final episode with you and Mauricio!
 

The Karmageddon discussion of this series lists all the crimes up to the last episode to air before the discussion (#122, I think). There are things to add to Erick and Franco since then so I might edit the lead post. The attempted murder of Erick is already there.

I didn't put Pedro on the list because I couldn't find a photo of him and didn't see him listed in the dramatis personae on IMDb, so I don't know who the actor is. However, since he falls into the category of Sleazebag Villains he is virtually guaranteed a Karmageddon.

NovelaMaven, I completely agree about Erick making a last stand. We have to take his threats seriously because he always pays off on them... in addition to being stupid enough to make them in the first place.
 

NovelaMaven: "What do we think Agustín said to Graciela? Was he starting adoption proceedings for Diego?"

Yes, absolutely!! What a great father he will be.

I am praying Erick's dastardly deeds are done but I'm uneasy, along with you, UA and other patio participants.

What a treat - you, UA and Mauricio for the final. Talk about a talented trio!

Diana
 

Aw, thanks, Diana – I think it'll be a blast. (Hey, JudyB, thanks for worrying about me. It would have been a real chore if my buds hadn't stepped up.)

I agree that Agustín will be a great father. (And Gaby will be a terrific mom when she comes to her senses, dumps Franco and joins the new family.)
 

Amazing recap!!!

The time jump threw me. I completely missed it and thought it was weird when Art showed up at Julia's right after she told them to leave her alone.

Franco seemed like he was on the verge of pushing Eladio out so why is it 6 months later and that still hasn't happened?

The way Franco ended it with Gaby I can see him holding her hostage until all of his plans are in place and he doesn't need her anymore.

Art still annoys me to no end and Julia too. When Art opened the door, Julia's face lit up when she saw Eladio. Why she can't admit that to herself or, more importantly, Art drives me crazy.

I'm with Mauricio. Another Caridad free episode is a good episode!
 

One last thing, I was in the camp of "Erick wouldn't intentionally hurt his child". After last night, I can totally see him doing something knowing he will get revenge on Connie and Art (and Nina now too).
 

Erick seems to be into pyric victories, or ones where if he can't have something he destroys it to prevent someone else from having it.

That he has no feeling for his own son except as a pawn to use against Consuelo (whom he wants to possess in order to abuse) finally became obvious to his parents and Regina. It was obvious to Miguel long ago and Daniela was starting to realize something about this. It seems she didn't say anything to anyone about this but that may not have made much difference, if any.
 

However we want to frame it – whether we prefer to see them as emotionally damaged or disturbed or as essentially evil – both Erick and Franco are moral imbeciles who would stop at nothing to get what they believe they are entitled to. We on The Patio have known this all along; the characters in the story are only now awakening to that harsh truth.
 

UA...I have enjoyed your detailed recaps and always look forward to the interesting photos that you choose. Thanks. Loved the heart photo.

Well, Bill C. Said it for me. This telenovela is "bleakly depressing \irritating." Life is hard. Nobody has to tell me that, but life is also good . To me, this show has been so unbalanced..yes depressing and irritating. Those couple scenes at the beach and Fiesta America were not enough to balance all the negative characters and aspects of this novela for me. The four leads are just constantly marinating in negativity and inaction. They keep going around and around with no forward movement. Anyone who has experienced sad\bad times knows that at some point , you just have to try to pull the pieces of your life together as best you can and start again to try to have some meaning and happiness and purpose in your life.

Is this Julia's second attempt to live in an apartment on her own? I have lost track.Is it the same apartment? I am getting tired of "Goodbye...it's over...". Then, " Hello again." Eladio and Art circling Julia relentlessly and Julia letting them is getting old for me.

Auggie is the galan for me. He is trying to help and protect both Gaby and Connie from very bad guys. Now there is a man I can admire. I respect Miguel for forgiving Nina and trying to help her.
 

Urban (and NovelaMaven, Mauricio, Cynderella, and AuntyAnn), thank you so much for your sparkling and witty recaps of this show. I stopped watching (and commenting) some time ago, but I often read the recaps. They are a can’t-miss—unlike the show, which got boring and repetitive to me long ago. But that makes it the perfect kind of show to drop in on the last week-- all of the action is saved for the last few episodes. Bring it on, Writers!

Things that made me happy: Gabby gets slapped and finally has her eyes opened to who Franco is. David clued into the possibility that Franco might be cheating their father. Nina realizing she maybe should have been nice to Miguel when he was growing up (I still need to see a bigger apology). Connie and Miguel not giving a flip what anybody else thinks about them and fighting for their love and little EJ. Good for them! Nina and Art finally realizing that Erick is scum (not happy they haven’t acknowledged that they should have let him rot in jail for the murder he committed).

I’m very much looking forward to seeing the anvils drop on Erick and Franco, and hope they don’t hurt too many other people during their descent to hell. Same with Humberto.

I like that Eladio and Nina have had some character growth, but hate the limbo and lobotomies they gave Julia, Art, Caridad, and Gabby. These characters/actors had SO much potential for much more interesting stories and acting. David and Regina were never going to be more than props to propel the story one way or another, so no surprise their story got stuck on stupid. A shame though. I really liked that they were initially a couple who had a lot in common, enjoyed working with each other, and had goals and ambitions. The writers could have done better.

Dani was doomed from day one. She and her parents had many opportunities to change her path (Nina needs to stop laying the blame solely on Art). When she got involved with Ashmore, Dani thought she was the one in control of the situation—just like with all her other boy toys whom she played with and dropped at her whim. But she overplayed her hand with Ashmore and underestimated him. It was bound to happen with one of her men one day. RIP, Dani.

 

I find the style differences between David and Franco quite interesting.

David is the cool millennial with the "enlightened" world view of his generation, the shambling galán for our times in jeans and tweeds and wool. [This, of course, pushes some people's buttons and they despise him automatically.]

Franco, in his too-tight suits and with his edgy manner of an overly-aggressive car salesman, is completely apart from his age mates. He has assimilated all Eladio's worst traits and none of his saving graces. He has nothing of the idealism of youth. He wouldn't be out of place in a 1950's melodrama.
 

hello, Vivi....Good to see you! I have missed you here.
 

If Augie doesn't see the bruise, Eladio will.

Franco has been emotionally abusive to Gaby, and considering the household he grew up in, it's no surprise. He doesn't take her "I'm not like Julia" statements seriously and has no respect for her because no matter what he does, she's going to stay right there.

Franco is escalating and so is Erick. If the baby is in an incubator, WHY would you think it's ok to just snatch him out and take him home? This should prove right there that Erick does not care about EJ's well being...EJ is just a toy Erick wants to take away from Consuelo.

I'm hoping that David ran and told Eladio what Justino said and that Eladio is just biding his time, waiting for the right TIMING to lower the boom on Franco.

Arturo's declaration that he needed to stay away from Julia "for the kids" was false because he was back up her butt the very next day. I did not like how he insulted her little apartment, either.
 

Vivi: Ditto Susanlynn. The show has been pretty slow and repetitive. The only thing that has kept me is watching the growth of Eladio. He has come so far from the beginning of the TN (when I almost quit the show because the abuse was so depressing).
 

Art just wants to put Julia up on a pedestal. He has created this fantasy Julia in his mind over the years and now just wants to own and worship her. I don't believe he truly loves her. And I don't think he truly loved her all of those years ago because he cheated on her.
 

UA you amaze me. I learned another new term today Pyrrhic Victory (for those like me, Peer-ik) I had to look it up. Thanks again
 

I read your great recap UA early this morning but had to dash for work. Thanks so much for all your stellar recaps through this...uh, adventure.

Great comments today. Considering we are actually getting some plot movements and resolution, it makes us all want to vent.

I noticed the time jump but only aspect that had be twitching was seeing Nina still so distraught and consumed by Dani's death. That was hard to see and I don't know simply springing a counselor on her was the way to start. To me there was far more to her anguish then Dani, there was a lot of guilt for ignoring Gina and Miguel, and seeing the mess that is Erick, I think she was mourning that too. Lot to hit at one time. Thankfully, having her daughter remind her the are other children that need her too helped.

On the other side, Art talks a big talk about wanting to make amends to his kids, etc. but his priority still is getting back with Julia. Glad that Gina told him off. He infuriated me last night.

And then of course we get the testerone flying with he and Eladio. Again, blow each other up guys, take Hummy and Franco with you, and everyone can move on.

Side note: whoever the costumer was for this should have been knocked up the side of the head for putting Gaby in that dress at the school. C'mon. we get they want to make the women pretty and wear tight fitting dresses, but low cut, super short and she's taking care of kids...yeah, that's a no. But at least her light bulb is charged to the max now.

And J is back from the honeymoon right in time to get the word out on Franco...though I thought he heard more than he let on to David.

Daisynjay

 

Anon: Aguie needs to get Gaby out of that house in 3, 2.....
 

Diana: In regards to Franco being a possible murderer, Marinita needs to WATCH HER BACK too because if he can strike Gaby like that, what do you think he's going to do to his mistress ?
 

Steve: Do you think Frnaco would hurt or destroy the Mother of his child.? On a practical note, if he were going to kill Mouth Breather, would he make arrangements for his Son, or hope the authorities would find the child in time, or not care and just leave the infant to die alongside the baby's Mother?

I guess I think too much?
 

Franco
 

Anon207, there was a six-month time leap between Arturo's 1st visit to Julia's apartment and the return.

I agree that he is putting her on a pedestal but I didn't see his comment as insulting her apartment. Don't forget that both of them grew up in mansions. We don't know about their college years but I'm betting that Julia would have attended the best local one because of Humberto's control issues. Arturo might have done the same while working part-time in the family business since he seems to have been an only child (or we would have had Pablo Montero join the cast as his kid brother). We know that Arturo's grandfather bought or built the Montenegro mansion. Humberto lost his to gambling.

Arturo and Julia might have met while in college, but we weren't given that info. As to his cheating on her we weren't told the details. Since Arturo was probably about 50 years old in the opening episode and the cheating was 27 years earlier, he wasn't really ready to commit and get married at that point. Neither was she or she wouldn't have married Eladio out of spite.
 

Having lost a child years ago, I can tell you that many mothers never really get over that loss. I did some research , and I read somewhere that men and women experience and process that loss differently. Many men tend to deal with the loss head on and move on. Women kind of weave the loss and the child into the fabric of their lives as they move forward and keep that child with them until the day that they die. That is exactly what happened to hub and me. I still talk about him and like to say his name, but hub never mentions him unless I bring him up. Some couples are torn apart by the loss of their child , while other couples become closer. Luckily, we were among those who became closer. We were fortunate to have close families on both sides whom we saw every week and very close, supportive friends and a wonderful, caring minister. People grieve in different ways. In some cultures, women who lose children wear black the rest of their lives .
 

SusanLynn what a touching story, my heart goes out to you. It sounds like it was a long time ago, but there is no greater love than a Mother's love. Thank You for sharing that with us.

k
 

So just in case some of you didn't see my late comment yesterday I'm going to repost.

I noticed that the finale wasn't scheduled on my dvr. Thursday was missing. I have Time Warner Cable. I went to Thursday and TWC is showing Sueno playing from 7pm to 10pm, not PyP from 8pm to 11pm. If you dvr the episodes please double check your scheduled recordings. I'm off to a wedding so I'll be missing the finale and the retrospective on Friday.
 

Susanlynn thank you for sharing such a personal story.
 

Nina has slapped the hell out of everybody. My favorite was last night. Did she not change clothes or move from that spot for 6 months?

UrbanA - I'm so happy when i read your recaps...i miss so much (in translation) and you fill in many gaps.
 

And she does it all without closed captions, Kendra. THAT'S the amazing part!
 

I am continually amazed that the writers have David continue to mention to Julia that he doesn't approve of his mother dating or being in a relationship with Arturo. Why is it any of his business? Julia should tell this to her son, instead of letting him (and everyone else) walk all over her.


 

Another Tuesday, another excellent recap! You make it look effortless but I can only imagine the time and the application it takes. Thanks ever so much for sharing your talent with us all these months, UA.

Time jump! Yay! We saw that coming because some temporal and emotional distance was needed to wrap up all these entangled plots which, as TN tradition dictates will be resolved the day of the finale. Frustrating if you ask me but I'm starting to think that TN writers have a clause in their contract that if they ever initiated a dénouement before the penultimate episode, they will get fired and have their monkey writer card revoked!

Poor Nina! She has suffered more than the female protagonist, co-protagonist, sub-protagonist and sub-sub-protagonist combined! What a shame Favela's work hasn't been recognized, not even with a nomination at Premios TV y Novelas. Is it because she is not under an exclusive Televisa contract? Oh well... She gained loads of fans after her turn in PyP, that's for sure.

Julia sweeping the floor of her "lowly" apartment in a cocktail dress and 5-inch heels. Oh how the mighty have fallen! :D

 

Sweet Susanlynn, thank you for sharing such a personal and poignant story with us. I don't have children but I can't begin to imagine the pain of losing a child. There is, however, one story of inconsolable loss that occurred in my family circle and which will stay with me forever. My mother's childhood friend lost her eldest son about 3 years ago; he was barely 17. Months after his passing, we went to visit her and she told us something that brings tears to my eyes every time I remember it. She said that many times she would wake up startled in the middle of the night by a sensation that she described as a bucket of scolding hot water being poured over her and a voice inside her yelling: "Wake up! How could you ever fall asleep again? Your son is dead!" I will never forget her words and her expression for as long as I live. She has since learnt to live with her grief and to find strength in the love of her other children. As you rightly said, she learnt to "weave the loss of the child into the fabric of their lives as they move forward and keep that child with them until the day that they die." Sending much love and light your way, amiga! :)
 

Gobluefan- I also don't understand why David is still being such a jerk to his mother, when MONTHS after Art left his wife, no hot and heavy romance has resulted between him and Julia. Clearly, all the speculation about her wanting/trying to relive her youthful romance with Art was trumped up. You would think by now David (and others) would realize this hot and heavy romance that Helen of Troy (aka Julia) was accused of partaking in, was mainly in Art's head. Julia's been a hesitant and tepid, at most, participant.
 

-- A quote from the capítulo --

“Ya estará contento, se salió con la suya. ¿Sí sabe que si no fuera por su hija, ya lo hubiera puesto en la calle con todo y el carro ese maldito?”*

Eladio threatens a great deal but never delivers: “You must be pleased with yourself, you got your way. You do know that, if it hadn’t been for your daughter, I would have thrown you out on the street with everything including that damn cart?”

salirse con la suya = to get one’s way, to carry one’s point.

poner en la calle (a alguien) = to expel, to throw out.
 

"Women kind of weave the loss and the child into the fabric of their lives as they move forward and keep that child with them until the day that they die".

susanlynn, you just brought me to tears. Sometimes, words are inadequate...I will say a prayer for you and your family.

God bless.

Diana
 

UA, thanks for confirming that Nina's character development is rare as well as pointing out poor Consuelo was Julia 2. Why she hasn't told someone about Chimp Boy's threats is frustrating. She should have loud-talked his treat in front of Agustin and the officer.

Steve, I'm more concerned with Franco going down badly than his side piece, Marinita. But, as you note, Gaby and Auggie will probably end up his parents.

Diana, yes it is a tn and Clara and Justino just doesn't cut it as far as happily ever after is concerned. It bums me out that the writers made David such a dunce.

tofie, I understand your POV and agree to disagree. Many of us had complained that the only reason Julia was with Eladio (and stayed after years of assault and abuse) was because of money. Moving out for her was huge.

Vivi, happy to see you!

NovelaMaven, your observations about David and Franco were very insightful. Since they were both raised together, their differences are intriguing because they are night and day.

Daisynjay, your assessment of Nina is spot on. It's not just Dani's death, its dealing with the ramifications of her choices as well.

Susanlynn, thanks for sharing. Though I can't imagine your loss, the fact that you and your husband grew closer is inspiring.






 

David and Franco grew up in the same home, but under very different circumstances. David learned early on that no matter what he did, he would never gain Eladio's approval, so why bother? He became his own man. A nonconformist. Franco learned early on that emulating/imitating Eladio (in temperament and style) earned him praise, and a place at Eladio's side (and above David).
 

Susanlynn, thank you for sharing that story. That had to have been very hard.

My mother wasn't the same for at least two years after my brother died (he was 24). She didn't stay in bed as this episode implies of Nina, but she didn't take much pleasure in anything.

She did rewrite history later, though. I don't think that Nina will and I doubt they'd do another time jump to show that.

Regarding David's attitude about Julia and Arturo, it's absurd. I'd love to know what the actor thought about that.
 

Vivi, Gobluefan, David is blaming his mother for Regina's actions. If Regina hadn't flounced out of their cohabitation apartment the second after David confronted Julia about Arturo, he would have moved on by now. If they were the happy couple he desired, he wouldn't be accusing his mother. Like almost everyone in this novela, he is looking to place blame on someone else for his pain. Only Eladio takes full responsibility as I see it.

Has anyone else noticed how many men in this novela love royal blue suits? It must be a Mexico City thing..

Thanks UA, your recap and especially the broken glass heart image were outstanding.
 

Sandy- That makes sense. Great explanation.
 

-- Vivi: Welcome back! We missed you in this Patio! Both Franco and Erick inherited the worst traits of their fathers, magnified a thousand times, and virtually none of the good attributes of Eladio and Arturo (when these two doofuses are not obsessing over Princess Confundida, they display quite a bit of goodness and generosity). However, I still believe that parents are only partly responsible of the way kids turn out. Sometimes, some people are just bad seeds, like my granny QEPD used to say. And sometimes they need a few chanclazos to set them straight (Bless her heart, she was Captain Boomerang with a chancla! I miss her.)

-- UA: The problem with David (OK, one of the problems) is that he is holding his mother accountable for something that was essentially Regina's screw-up. Regina had zero reason to dump David but she did it anyway. She professes her undying love for him but discarded him several times at the drop of a hat. Julia is not responsible for Regina's actions nor is she to blame for David's colossally stoooopid decision to go back to boinking Daniela.

I don't know how JP Minor felt about his character but Susy González did say in an interview that Julia irritated her quite a bit. You and me both, darling. You and me both. :)
 

-- Sandy: I posted before seeing your comment. We essentially said the same thing. :)
 

Nandicta- I laughed out loud this episode when Eladio asked Julia if she was "confundida" and she denied it. :)
 

Susanlynn, my heart goes out to you. Thanks for the lovely words. And to you Nandicta for sharing your story too. Makes me look forward all the more to spending four days with my boys in Atlanta for their 25th. Now, I'm a hugger, but I am prompted to be giving them some larger than usual mom hugs.

I see Nina coming back strong from her grief and guilt, and this time will put her love and attention to those who she previously ignored and berated. Her heartache over how she treated Miguel was touching and I can see her becoming a powerful force with the remaining family. That's sort of why I like the idea of her and Miguel working together too. Minus Artie.

I just don't know what to do with Julia though. That little I'm independent spiel to Art and Eladio sort of was ok, but there is something unsure in her. She wants independence, but I'm not sure she really does? Or maybe she has no clue how? She also needs to leave David the hell enough alone already with the Gina thing. It's the only thing she ever talks about with him. I can see he's tired of it. (And yes, the cleaning in 5 inch heels...hello costume department again? Or are we being shown rich women like Julia, and Gaby who grew up under her, who don't know how to be themselves or not worrying every second what they look like?)

Daisynjay
 

Regina made a stupid mistake when she dumped David quickly because her dad was hot for his mom. But David was COLOSSALLY stupid to go back to dating and boinking her sister. What made him think that was a good idea in any universe? Gina and David are even at this point, in my book.
 

Yes Nandicta, we are on the same page with our thoughts on David and Julia! So Fabiola was nominated and Marlene wasn't? That's incredible!!


Vivi, I too was very amused when Julia denied being confused! That had to be the understatement of the century!!!

Susanlynn, glad you and your husband grew stronger after the loss of your baby, that isn't always the case as you know.

Safe travels Daisy! Your sons will think their mother is really crazy this time with all the bear hugs!!!

 

Reading today about the completion between Lee Radziwilli and Jackie Onassis over their mutual relationship with Aristotle Onassis. Lee dated him but Jackie married him. Shades of the Montenegro sisters?
 

-- Vivi: Me too! I chuckled at the way Eladio said "Why? are you still confundida?" I felt that there was a subtle tinge of mockery in his tone. I think this confundida bit is becoming some sort of an inside joke because there is no way the writers aren't doing this on purpose. I can't count the number of times I heard Julia say "No sé" and "estoy confundida". We should have turned into a drinking game. A friend of mine, who got tired of hearing our little novelero circle talk and joke about PyP, has started watching it last week. She WhatsApped our group a little clip from an early episode (I can't remember if it was #9 or #10) that she believed was the first ever utterance of the word confundida by our beloved Princess Confundida! Tee hee!
In my book, Regina and David are not even. She may have been the first to hurt him but his going back and boinking her sister AGAIN, is simply unforgivable. This boy is un-take-back-able, I don't care if he twists himself into a pretzel or takes a bullet for Regina. No taking back his sisterfudging behind!

-- Daisynjay: Have a safe and pleasant journey! Happy birthday to your boys and many many many happy returns! Enjoy your weekend and see you back on the Patio next week for your impressions on the PyP finale! :)

The endgame you described for Nina and Miguel would be my favorite too. I'm liking Miguel better and better ever since he lent his support to Nina's business proposal.

As for Julia's "independence spiel", I don't buy it for a minute. The first thing she did was dump her father on Eladio then, after the 6 months' time jump, we learn that she had been seeing Arturo "as friends" for all this time. So she makes Eladio promise to respect her decision and give her her space, which he does, but she continues seeing the other guy who did not respect her decision to independizarse. I can't with this lady!

-- Sandy: You and I have been hanging around the same tables in this patio, almost from the beginning. :)

Fabiola Guajardo got a Premio TV y Novelas for the extremely insipid role of Gabi and her act-by-number performance but Marlene Favela didn't even get a nomination! I suspect it is because Favela is just barely back to Televisa from Telemundo. This year, it was the viewers who voted for their favorites, which explains why Fabiola won (she has a large fanbase among millenials). I suspect Jorge Salinas didn't win in his category because:

1) a lot of viewers have a bad impression of the actor due to some aspects of his personal life and his behavior towards the press during PyP's promotional appearances. (This is one of the reasons why I prefer to know nothing or very little about the personal lives of my favorite performers).

2) many have confused their antipathy for the character "Arturo" with the merit of Jorge Salinas's performance. I dislike "Arturo" but Jorge Salinas offered us a masterful performance from start to finish. His performance in PyP was superior to all his co-nominees. I personally feel that Salinas was robbed this year.

 

UA thank you for all the time and effort you have put into your recaps, they are most appreciated. The thoughtful detail is evident. A huge thank you to all the recappers who have faithfully spent time providing a daily platform for lively and thought provoking discussion. Your work is greatly appreciated! ((H)) <----hug.

Wow so many great comments and too many to highlight, but I will have to agree w/those who are pointing to Marlene Favela as the one pulling away from the relay team, to carry the baton home. What a performance she is turning in these past few days. Her grief over Dani, has really been moving and all too real. It sounds like she is also grieving the person she was toward Miguel, how she missed opportunities to be a mother to this kind and caring young man. How she failed to unite all of her children. Her tears/grief seem to be a kind of purging not only for Daniel, but for the woman she now realizes wasn't the mother she should have been. It's continued growth on her part and I really applaud the writers for playing the beats with Nina. Her journey has been wonderful to watch.

Julia..Julia..Julia. Still stuck...but just a new address. I've been screaming for months now that I wanted her to show she was ready to truly be on her own and be independent. I like that she moved and her apartment is nicely furnished/decorated. Still the whole thing just leaves me flat. This needed to happen months ago and I don't even know why the therapist never suggested it. All this back and forth with Art/Eladio had to be exhausting for the man to hear about. I doubt very much that Arturo is going to get the girl, the audience is watching a slow agonizing torture of Julia saying she's confused, but clearly she isn't. She just doesn't have the guts to be firm with Art that she doesn't love him and hasn't for years now. As someone pointed out, her face lights up when she sees Eladio.

Art's obsession with Julia continues. I felt Regina's disgust at her father. She knew he had no intention of giving up Julia, and he'd never step aside to let her be happy with David. Art as usual is all about himself.

I really loved Eladio's comments to Art. It appeared Eladio was almost incredulous at Art sniffing around after Julia, seeming over his grief for his daughter. Arts comments that Eladio was never sincere in his concern for Dani were low and tacky but I think internally Art knows the truth is that Eladio was more of a father to Dani than he ever was. This is even more of a reason for Art to despise Eladio. He has Julia's heart, he had Dani's love/affection/trust and he has Nina's respect. Art has none of those things. #DieArturo

Franco is really feeling the pressure now. Gaby isn't going to let things go with that factory or having a baby. Franco doesn't like being challenged or threatened, Gaby should talk to Marintia. Add to that Franco failing to convince David to sell his shares, a missed opportunity for Franco to acquire more. Things are not going so well for Franco. #TheEndIsNear

I really liked Consuelo in the beginning. It's a pity they didn't do more to develop her beyond Miguel/Erick. They should have had her at least modeling or working or doing something outside of just sitting and talking all day about Miguel/Erick/Bebe


A Caridud free eppy! And no Bore-je! Thank you tn Gods. #MyPrayersAreAnswered


Susanlynn, Thank you for sharing that touching story. My condolences for your loss. It sounds like you have found a measure of peace in your grief. My sincerest best going forward to you and your hub, may you continue to grow closer as the years pass.
 

Kirby: Yes, I do believe Franco is capable to killing Marinita considering her constant babbling all of the time.

It's inevitable (see Daniela getting whacked by Ashmore).
 

Nandicta- I actually agree that what David did goes way beyond what Gina did. But, tn audiences are always usually harder on the women, and so I think there are many who still put more blame on Gina for killing her and David's chances at a relationship. Being flaky with your ex can be fixed. Boinking the sibling of your ex, can't.
 

Urban---I am glad that you have been a part of the recap team. It is always a pleasure to read you're full and complete recaps, they're always spot on.

Looks like that both Eladio and Arturo will be fighting for Julia until the fin.

When Justino was talking to David about what he had heard between Franco and the accountant, I thought that for a split second the tv showed Franco coming back and stopping behind the wall where Justino and David were talking. Did anyone else see that or was it just my imagination?

Vivi---What a surprise. Glad that you came back.

Nandicta---You wrote that it was a shame Favela's work hadn't been recognized, not even with a nomination at the Premios TV y Novela's awards. I don't know how the nomination process works but I have shaken my head on more than one occasion. I remember that I was furious when Susana Gonzales portrayal as Cynthia Montero in La Que No Podia Amar wasn't recognized with a nomination and here in Pasion y Poder Susana as Julia wasn't recognized. What's going on over there? Both Marlene and Susana should have been recognized. Are payoffs involved? It makes me wonder.

I can't wait for tonight and yet I know that I will be sad when it's over.
must see tv
the gringo
 

Thanks everyone. I got some great advice when this happened to me from one of my aunts who had also lost a baby boy and then went on to have two lovely girls..just as hub and I did. She told me that in the beginning it would feel like a deep wound, but in time, the wound would form a scab and become less painful. Finally, a scar would form that you carry for the rest of your life. She was so right.

Mysteriously, I was surrounded by people who had lost babies...two aunts, a cousin, my gynecologist, our minister, another doctor...coincidence???..I think not. I think that those people were placed around me to help me, and they did.


One of my favorite quotes is " Love is stronger than death". I think that it made me stronger, too. I have lost many other loved ones since then.
 

Arturo was insulting to Julia's apartment because he implied it was beneath her station. Doesn't matter if he said the statement before the time jump or after the time jump. It was important for Julia to have something of her own. That little apartment was the first time she had been able to provide herself a roof over her head and that made her proud.

Arturo didn't know this small thing would make her proud. He sees his old girlfriend, who grew up in mansions as he did, living in a basic apartment and has the feeling of Why? when you can live in splendor (with me)?

It shows that Arturo doesn't know JULIA at all, he just knows Julia™️, the fantasy, the image. THAT'S who Arturo is in love with, not the Julia of today.

Arturo & Julia of yesteryear are quite different than the Arturo & Julia of today. Unless they have truly gotten to know each other for who they are in the past six months, they're both dealing with fantasies. Or least Arturo is; I think Julia let go of Arturo of Yesteryear long ago and was only using him as an escape from Eladio.

Arturo is in love with Julia from Yesterday, the perfect girl he had before Susana & Miguel & Nina and the rest of them came along. Julia of Yesteryear is of simpler times. But that's not who Julia is today.

That's why his comment about her apartment was an insult because it proves Arturo doesn't know who the Julia of today is really about.


 

If Regina had concerns about David sleeping with Daniela she should've never dated him in the first place. He told her BEFORE they started having sex that he had a "thing" with her sister. David had sex with Daniela FIRST. He likely never would've gotten with Regina in the first place if Daniela hadn't dumped him like a broken toy.

Should David have taken up with Daniela again? Of course not, but he never would've taken up with Daniela if Regina hadn't unilaterally decided to end the relationship.

Regina & David shouldn't be together, not because David slept with Daniela again, but because Regina is flaky, insecure & doesn't know what she wants. She shouldn't be with Jorge, either because she's only using him to get over the mistake she made with David.

Regina is too flaky & shaky (like Julia). Neither one of them should be in a relationship with ANYONE until they get themselves together. Plus it would do Regina a world of good to be alone for the next several years. She bounced from Joshua to David to Jorge without skipping a beat. Regina needs to just concentrate on her career and leave men alone for a while. She's not ready for a serious relationship.
 

Urban anthropologist, thank you for this very insightful recap. it's been 6 months and these people are still stuck in
Stupidville. Losing a daughter has not changed arturo one bit. Eric is dumber. I understand Nina's hurt and pain but she's clinging to Dani even more and still neglecting her other children even her Newfound love for miguel, she's still clinging to Dani even more.

Eric being kicked out of the family home and workplace is just caused him to sink even lower.
Franco has now gone full-blown eladio. this is Auntie Julia all over again. but maybe Gabby won't be as weak as Auntie Julia was we'll see what happens tonight.

Arturo was saying to julia about loving his family and I think he was saying it to regina too about loving his family and wanting to take care of nina and his children. Where was all this wonderful family love and sentiment when he was chasing after somebody else's wife. His family was In hell. His daughter is now gone and he still hasn't changed. he's still using old run-around pop to give him information about Julia's whereabouts, some people never learn. we have two more nights let's hope he will have learned something in the last 3 hours tomorrow night
 

And that, I suspect, is where this particular timeskip comes in. They can just FF>> through all the good stuff that we'd rather see at least alluded to by Regina and/or David...let alone Arturo, who apparently just randomly popped up like a whack-a-turo and went "I can't forget about you...let's try again." Or Gabriela, who's still stuck with Franco for no obvious good reason other than stubbornness.

Yeah, I'm not crazy about brute-force timeskips...
 

I will elaborate some more on David & Regina. I put more of the blame on Regina because the majority of the time when they've broken up, it's because REGINA unilaterally decided they shouldn't be together because of some outside force, not because they themselves were having relationship problems.

And most breakups are unilateral, to be sure. But Regina can't go around breaking up anytime things aren't perfect.

Let's examine the 2 major times Regina dumped David:

1) When Daniela reminded Regina that she & David had slept together and she could still feel David inside of her. I don't blame Regina for feeling icky; however, she knew before she & David had sex that David had been with Daniela. David was with Dani FIRST; this was not new information. Regina willingly stepped into the role of sloppy seconds but didn't like it when Dani reminded her she was sloppy seconds. This right here should've been the end of David & Regina.

2) When Regina caught Arturo kissing Julia:

Arturo & Julia had nothing to do with David & Regina. Instead of talking it out with David, she decided by herself to end the relationship over factors that had nothing to do with her or David.

Throughout their whole relationship, Regina's been the one who wants to flake out because it's too hard, or because of their families, or because of Daniela or because of whatever.

David obviously wants someone who will be steadfast and committed to him. He thought Daniela would provide that because at least she was willing to fight for her love, and that's what he wanted with Regina.

Unfortunately, that's not what he's going to get with Regina. He may NEVER get that with Regina. Regina has never been as committed to David as he was to her.

Regina shouldn't take David because he was too quick to take up with Daniela again and she will always think that she is sloppy seconds to Daniela.

But David shouldn't take Regina back because she cannot commit to him and will make up any and ever excuse for not being able to commit herself fully to him. David should leave town for a while, find a nice girl and make a life with her.

Regina needs to be alone until she gets herself together. (Perhaps she will meet up with Francisco years from now and get with him)

Jorge needs to dump Regina because she will never fully commit herself to him either, and go to Queretaro and take up with Yamile.
 

207 your take on Reginaflake is exactly what I have been thinking all along. Sh'e flaky as Mrs. Pauls pie crusts and needs to stop inflicting herself on the fellows until she gets herself straightened out. Could be a long dry spell for Ms Flake.
 

Down South we have a saying about just too much water has flown under the bridge.

This applies to David and Flakygurl. There is just too much damage, the relationship is totaled.
 

Urban,
Thank you for this outstanding recap. Once again, it was a slam dunk! All of your recaps are a pleasure to read. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into these for all of us to enjoy.

Gracias,
Hasta Pronto
 

Thank you, Urban.

And thanks to all the other recappers for doing an awesome job on this TN.

Wardrobe department (and/or continuity supervisor) - fail. Actually, Nina's black top from the earlier scenes looked to be a button-down with epaulets while the one after the jump seemed to have a rounded neckline and no epaulets, but it's a little hard to tell. However, Gaby was definitely wearing the same dress for longer than six months! She was wearing it when Franco and Augustin had their little scuffle (which was the same day that Julia was wearing that pretty blue dress); then she was wearing it when Clara came to the foundation (Julia was wearing that black and white dress, so it was a different day); then six months later she's still wearing it while arguing with Franco (I didn't go back and check, but I believe HE is still wearing the same suit also. Nitpicking? Of course I am.
 

Anon207- I totally get what you're saying about Gina. But she did get past the "you had sex with my sister first" thing. And I'm sure she and David would have eventually gotten past the "your mom and my dad are hooking up" thing. But it's a whole other level of angst (and guilt) involved in "because you were dating my druggie sister, while the two of us were still in love and making moon-eyes at each other, she OD'd and DIED". That's pretty damned hard to come back from. Dave caused that situation by going back to Dani for sloppy seconds, when he knew he was only doing it to try to forget Gina, and to rub his moving on with her sister in Gina's face (there had to be some element of "in your face!" involved in that). The writers will still probably have them back together, but in the real world, that beyond a deal breaker.

 

And I don't mean Dave caused the OD. He caused the guilt and angst. Had Dani OD'd while dating some other random guy, right now Gina would be falling into Dave's arms as he comforted her about her dead sister.
 

ViVi: Now we can anticipate watching Marinita's anvil, which will be very big!

I also expect Gaby to go Cookie Lyon on her & Caridad!
 

UA,

Thanks for another of your thorough recaps featuring your incredible extensive translations of dialogue. Awesome.

As for Nina taking to her bed and focusing on her loss and sorrow:

"Healing takes its own time..."

I'm glad that Regina finally confronted her with this:

You have to have strength. I need my mother..."

I think that was finally the reality she was needing to face and I'm hoping that we see her tonight with her purple warpaint, perfect hair, and clingy body armor ready to do battle with the rest of the world once more.

Anon207,

"I did not like how he insulted her little apartment..."

I agree wholeheartedly. Not only was it a thoughtlessly belittling thing for him to say, I think it may have opened her eyes to what a selfish snobbish jerk he is.

UA,

"She can go to Augustin to file for divorce and to take Franco to the cleaners."

While I agree that Gabriela desperately needs to divorce Franco, I think since Agustín is apparently her endgame that it is a very bad idea for him to be her divorce lawyer although there's not much doubt that he will be.

Carlos
 

Susanlynn,
Thank you for sharing your story. I am glad that you and your husband had a supportive group of family and friends, and that you were able to stay together.

Vivi,
So glad you came back for the last few episodes. You have been missed.

Hasta Pronto
 

Nandicta,
ITA about Julia's independence. Why did she keep seeing Art if she asked to be left alone? That's just so stupid! Was it made clear that Eladio stayed away? If she continued to see Art, but stayed away from Eladio how is that fair? Oh wait, maybe she was confused about what she herself had requested from Art and Eladio.
 

AuntyAnn,

"Why did she keep seeing Art if she asked to be left alone?"

I think that one of the reasons is that since Dani's death she may see Arturo as a victim who is in need of consolation and from what we've seen of him, I don't think that he's above playing (preying?) on her sympathy for him. Not only has he lost his daughter, he's lost his wife and his remaining children are rejecting him. Poor Arturo.

Carlos
 

Yall know gina & david will have their endgame. Together. Its gonna be interesting to see how they do it in 4 hours, tonite and tomorrow nite. AAAAAAAH!!!!! television workin its magic.

First it was dani commin between them, then she catches ma & pa doin the smoochaty smoochaty and they can't be together. All kinds of excuses excuses excuses for walkin away from the love of her life its so depressing watching it but thanks to TV time lapsing magic their end will be together.
 

Yup, poor Art. I see your point Carlos. Julia trying to do a good deed and Art taking advantage
 

I was reminded this morning by the Annie's Mailbox column of this song which Nina should have thought about when raising her daughters.
 

AuntyAnn: I'm looking forward to seeing Erick & Franco's anvils tonight!
 

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