Caray, Caray!

VIVIR #4 Part 1

A few notes of a very hard to follow episode. Please fill in what I missed, didn’t understand and/or what I got wrong.

Frustratingly, we do not see the immediate aftermath of Elena and Frida’s meeting. Several minutes have elapsed and the first thing we see tonight is Elena mewling to Angel (Angelli) that “it’s Frida mi amor!”, insisting her hija was there. We see Frida has already left the mausoleum looking unnerved and somber. “Your hermana was here” Elena insists to which Angel kindly says that it was not her. Meanwhile, Frida dissolves in tears in her car.

Cristina and JE try and lift Don Emilio’s spirits in the hospital. Instead of smiling, he looks confused even as JE kisses him on the forehead and tells him he loves him. JE calls Adolfo, telling his tio that his grandfather is better. Adolfo smiles but Misael’s smile is far from genuine.

We now see some sort of gang and it appears Bryan is the ringleader. A young man is hit by the gang but he manages to run away with the perpetrators in hot pursuit. All of a sudden Bryan smiles and seems to accept the young man. I realize I should know who he is but I don’t. I apologize for missing this likely important plot point.

Fatima returned home and Luciano followed in his car. She thanks him and calls Bruno, who seems generally unpleasant and dour.

Cristina is prostrate on her bed crying. In her room, Angel clutches a doll remembering Frida throwing hers over the hedge on that fateful day she was abducted. She begs and prays for her to come home. Meanwhile Frida is looking at her montage of hate.

Angel greets JE with kisses at the hospital. Monica, Cristina and Adolfo are there. Monica spits out something about the presidency and Adolfo apologizes for his wife.

Misael opens the door of his abuelo’s hospital door. Don Emiliano looks horrified and cries, telling him to leave. Misael apologizes and tries to reason with him but he is beyond agitated. The nurse explains to Don Emilio that Misael is his nieto (mistakenly thinking he doesn’t know who he is) but to no avail. The doctor tells the Don’s family that he is confused and his mind affected. Monica calls him loco.

Diana
 

VIVIR #4 Part 2 of 2

Misael leaves the room, telling his family his grandfather is hysterical as JE rushes in (with Angel). Don Emilio is relieved and happy to see him. He looks perplexed and tells him Misael is not good. Meanwhile, Misael talks with Bruno about the missing papers.

Santiago shows up still bruised and beaten. Misael asks him to do something and I get the feeling he is tricking him somehow.

Fatima calls Bruno who doesn’t answer as he is in bed with another woman. Fatima thinks of someone much more pleasant, Luciano, and smiles.

JE tells Angel he is worried about his grandfather. Kisses and words of love ensue.

Rebeca is back in her apartment clothes strewn all over the bed.

JE assures his mother all will be well. Misael goes to a wall safe and takes pictures, sending them to Santiago. Angel questions Santiago as to what he needs money for. He apologizes but she isn’t buying what he is selling. Neither does JE who later confronts Misael about what his grandfather told him (exactly what Misael did eludes me).

Dulce, Angel and Gi (I think) have lunch and talk about Angel’s wedding, toasting her joyously. They hold hands and enthuse about Dulce’s baby.

Rebeca purposely runs into JE spilling coffee over both of them. She tries to look upset and he gives her a rather unfathomable look. She whips off her shirt and in order to cover her, he takes off his shirt and gallantly puts it on her. Then she lays a long and lingering kiss on him. He doesn’t pull away and it finally ends. She apologizes and introduces herself. She invites him to coffee but says no, he has a girlfriend and she is a wonderful woman. Good for him. She smiles and rubs the shirt, more than a little smitten.

Misael gets a report that makes him smile.

One of the thugs confronts the young boy; I’m not sure what he wants but he makes a throat slitting sign.

In a shocking turn of events, Rebeca returns to her non-adoptive parents’ home.

Angel tries on wedding dresses and looks well, you know, like an angel from heaven in every single one. There is giggling, broad smiles and overwhelming happiness. Rebeca stares watching online and does a Sergio Sendel phone toss. She will not allow Angel and JE to marry. She envisions herself in a gown, marrying JE herself.

The young man accosted by the gang almost runs Rebeca over and is chastised by both Rebeca and Doris. Rebeca recalls something and stalks off.

Angel finally gets Bruno who tells her he is occupied and hangs up on him. Bruno then introduces Romina Castilo to Misael. JE confronts Misael but I could not understand what was said.

As Rebeca watches from around the corner, she sees the young man with two of the other thugs. He revs the motor and guns it as he tries to run down Elena and Angel. She steps in front of them and the driver swerves to avoid her!! Angel and Elena thank her profusely as Elena regards her feeling something (the call of the blood perhaps?)

Diana
 

VIDA Ep. 30 Part 1


Just the facts—


We have more lather, rinse, repeat (thank you, Doris) from Paulepe—he asks that she explain why they can’t be together so he can understand…she swears she loves him and some day she will tell him why she is doing all of this; he will then understand. They both have a responsibility to their children and their love is impossible. Pepe wishes her and Rol happiness before he leaves. When she swears again that she loves him, he asks if she will live a torturous life with Rolando for years to come. Paula cries…

Isabela tells Alex that Lor was there and assured her that he never received any money from them…and Lor assured that he would return the money to them. Alex gets on his high horse…he wants no money or help from Lor!

Emi is going to pick up the JP but Diego convinces him to let him drive…and Diego locks the doors and takes off in Rol’s car. He then calls Rol and tells him he is going to take the JP elsewhere.

Rosa wants to talk to Gracia who tries to avoid her. Rosa asks her not to treat her like that…she is her sister!

Paula arrives home out of breath, but ready to get married.

Isabela sees that Pepe is upset. They are interrupted by MAL who asks him for his jacket so she can take it to the cleaners.

Diego is about to take the JP elsewhere when Emi arrives and insists on taking the JP in the food truck.

Suzy interrupts Rol and Nat; she starts laughing because Rol’s lips have red “paint.”Suzy wants to go tell her mother but Rol stops a her saying that the redness is from blood because he bit himself.

Isabela insists on going with Pepe to look for the jacket, but Isabela offers to go with Pepe.

Lucia tells Andea about the rock Emi gave her. She thinks that the breaking of the rock is a bad sign, but Andrea thinks she should give Emilio half of the rock and them when they meet again, it will be like their hearts are coming together again ( what a sweet thought!)

Nat gets Reni to agree to help her control Diego who wants to ruin the wedding.

Rosa tells Nat that her sister (Gracia) is there …and she wants Nat to meet her.

MAL goes to see Rafa who is rehearsing how he will tell Pepe that the baby is his. MAL threatens that if he tells Pepe the truth, she will tell take Andrea to her mother who is in prison because she is a murderer!
 

VIDA Ep. 30 Part 2

Paula is dressed as a bride when she sees Pepe who is there looking for his jacket that he left in her food truck. Pepe apologizes and is about to leave, but Paula tells him that his being there is like a sign…she asks if he needs to tell her something more.

Diego locks Rolo in his room.

Emi fusses at Diego, but Diego retorts that Emi is just like their mother since he is leaving with Reni when he is in love with Lucia...they are both cowards!!

Andrea sends Emi a message from Lucia’s phone telling him that there is something she wants to give him…she will leave it at his house.

Lor reminds Paula about what they talked about. Paula asks for just a moment…and asks Pepe why he is there. Pepe agrees that Paula is right…this is a sign and he does have something more to say.

Rol climbs out the window and jumps to the ground (I was really expecting his pants to rip!).

Pepe tells Paula that he has never seen her look so beautiful and he wants to tell her—that he wishes her much happiness…she is a good woman…May they have a long life together. Rol approaches and asks what that guy is doing there. He is afraid Paula is going to humiliate him, but Paula assures that she will marry him. And Pepe huffs and puffs…

Rafa won’t allow MAL to ruin his daughter’s life. MAL tells him that if Pepe reads the note, they should deny everything and asks Rafa to swear he won’t tell Pepe anything.

Lucia tells Andrea that she didn’t want to return to live with her mother. Andrea tries to cheer her up saying that they will now be sisters since they will have a little sibling.

Pepe gets his jacket from the food truck!

Paula goes through with it!! She says “yes, I accept!l ARGHHHH!!! And Pepe whispers “I lost her; I lost the woman I love.” …and Paula looks like she’s kissing a real frog…

Alex tells Rafa that he has gotten a job as a musician…in Spain! He needs the money to pay the money he borrowed to pay for the loan (for the property). He also needs some space…as does Isabela.

Diego tells Andrea that they failed…his mother married Rol. Andrea thinks they can still help Emi and Andrea. When Diego tells her that Emi is leaving with Reni the next day, Andrea asks him to give the small box to Emi.

Pepe pulls over to the side of the road so he can vent and take some deep breaths. Isabela tells him to go ahead and cry. He then finds Andrea’s note!!!

…and that’s the end of this episode…

 

VIDA

Rgv Chick, thank you for your smart, savvy and superb recap! I enjoyed every well written word.

Paula, the martyr, determined to ruin her life. "When she swears again that she loves him, he asks if she will live a torturous life with Rolando for years to come. Paula cries…" as well she might. Paula continued to seal her fate, marrying a man she not only doesn't love but whose close proximity actually appears to make her ill.

Secrets are bursting from the vault, none more startling than "MAL threatens that if he tells Pepe the truth, she will tell take Andrea to her mother who is in prison because she is a murderer!" Ominous music plays loudly as we absorb the impact, pondering the validity of this brash and shocking statement.

Rosa and Gracia are sisters! Hmmm.

Diego, adamant to stop the wedding (bless his stubborn little heart), gave it his all. Trying to abduct the JP, locking Rol in his room...even ripping the sleeve right off his blazer so he didn't have to dress for the ceremony!

I really thought Diego was going to speak up and object during the ceremony but detestable Reni threatened to reveal his secret, that he is gay, if he spoke up. That scene was cringeworthy.

So Alex is choosing flight over fight. I wonder if he realizes that by leaving, history is doomed to repeat itself and that Isa's love is a battle he never really won.

Poor hyperventilating Pepe tries to let his grief out only to find Andrea's note which I never thought would see the light of day, was I wrong! Pepe should now (finally) be able to put two and two together; it's just a case of whether or not Rafa and Mal can continue to lie, lie, lie. "Rafa won’t allow MAL to ruin his daughter’s life" seemed like a genuine threat; I believe him, MAL should take heed.

Diana
 

vivir

Thanks again, Diana. Yep, things are taking a while to clarify.

I believe the papers Misael is trying to find concern the fraud that Don Emilio discovered before he fell ill. And Don Emilio is not well, but he knows Misael is a baddie.

As far as what Bruno and Misael are up to, well...that's another of the many examples of telenovela finance. Something is shady, but they haven't really shown us all of it yet.

I believe Misael, after insulting Santiago a bit more, had a brainstorm. He asked him if he was still studying computing. I think he plans to use him to hack things to further along his devious scheme. The first thing he sent him was an image of a safe. I'm struggling a bit to remember, but didn't Cristina go into Don Emilio's office and, maybe, take those papers that proved the fraud? I suspect that's what Misael wants Santiago to do: figure out a way to open the safe.

Well, I was kind of shocked at the way Mr. Perfect Galán let Frida/Rebeca kiss him that long!

I laughed at that "Sergio Sendel phone toss". I haven't seen one with him in a while, but I remember all the comments about that.

I thought maybe Rebeca/Frida plotted something with the guy on the motorcycle. I thought maybe she wanted him to run over Algelli to, at the very least, postpone the wedding. But she saw her mother arm in arm with Angelli and ran over to stop the accident. Or maybe that was her plan to ingratiate herself. Not sure.
 

Vivir

Diana, thank you for another excellent recap as we sort out the characters and the lines of good vs evil are drawn.

Good as gold galan had that galan paralysis when shirtless Rebecca\Frida locked lips with him ( as one does when a stranger spills coffee on one.) QTH ? I guess this guy is too polite to push away an affectionate lady .

I couldn't figure out who the motorcycle guy was.

Susan
 

Vida

Chickie, thank you for a great recap of all the unfolding drama.

So...we got some more information . Rosa and Gracia are sisters . Andrea's mother is in prison for murder . Hmmmm....why am I thinking perhaps MAL framed her and is the real murderer. Maybe Rafa will end up with his wife. Just speculating because MAL seems bad to the bone.

Pepe has been hyperventilating a lot . He does a lot of scenery chewing .

Speaking of scenery chewing , Ren does a lot of that while throwing around as much English as she can remember. Sometimes I can barely understand what she is saying in English . She must not have gotten very good grades in her ESL classes.

My favorite scenes were Diego locking Rol in the room and Rol climbing out the window in that tight tux.

Aha...Pepe found "the secret note!" Get ready for the lying , denying, and probably innocent Pepe buying it.

Adios Alex. When the going gets tough ...this guy goes .

Susan
 

Vivir

Thank you Diana! You caught as much as I did! I don’t remember who that young boy was either except that he had problems with that gang. Now that he impressed the main guy with his stealing the bread (?) from the food cart as he ran away, they want him in the gang instead of as a victim of the gang. I am not sure we know yet, how/why this is significant but the kid seems willing to go along to get along.

I’m still struggling with Angelli, I keep finding myself thinking ‘yeah right, wonder what she’s really up to’ and then reminding myself, she’s the good girl this time!!!

Our good guy galán seemed attracted to Rebeca to me……
 

VIVIR

Thank you so much Novelera!

"Well, I was kind of shocked at the way Mr. Perfect Galán let Frida/Rebeca kiss him that long!" had me smiling away. So true!

I don't recall Cristina retrieving the papers so thank you for adding that...Misael is going to get Santiago mired further in the muck, isn't he??

I have to repeat every word of this "I thought maybe Rebeca/Frida plotted something with the guy on the motorcycle. I thought maybe she wanted him to run over Algelli to, at the very least, postpone the wedding. But she saw her mother arm in arm with Angelli and ran over to stop the accident. Or maybe that was her plan to ingratiate herself. Not sure". Thank you! My first reaction was yes, that Frida had set everything up but she looked shocked I really had no idea exactly what transpired. Your noting Frida haddn't expected her mother to be there makes perfect sense.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Susan, thank you so much.

"Good as gold galan had that galan paralysis when shirtless Rebecca\Frida locked lips with him ( as one does when a stranger spills coffee on one.) QTH ?" had me smilling away. Yes, that kiss lasted far too long.

Lots to unfold and so much to me is still murky.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Darcy, thank you.

I was really upset with myself last night in not being able to ID the young boy and unravel that storyline a bit. Now that you, Novelera and Susan have noted you are also unclear I feel much better in that at least I didn't miss something really obvious. Whew!

Angelli = Vanilla. Sweet but missing a bit of spice. Good point about Kimberly who based on her previous roles, should be plotting and scheming! :) Guess Frida will have to shoulder the mantle of evil but at the very least she did intervene last night.

Diana

 

Vivir

Thanks Diana, things are slowly coming into focus. But they did add more characters. The gang and the young guy seem new, although I guess they’re the guys from Rebecca’s neighborhood.

We’re seeing a definite separation where the bad guys are being identified. Bruno was working with Misael but also cheating on Fatima. I’m so glad the grandfather told JE that Misael was bad. I’m not sure he believed him as the doctor told them Don va Emiliano would be confused. But hope it at least puts him on alert.

Not sure why Rebecca has such strong feelings against her sister. I guess she was jealous of the toddler and continues with those feelings.

The kiss lasted way to long! And who takes their shirt off in a hallway because it’s wet. I first thought she didn’t have a chance with JE but now I have my doubts.

I wonder when Rebecca plans to reveal who she is.

Liz
 

VIDA

Thank you for your recap, RgvChick. I won't be able to watch this today until after lunchtime.

I look forward to seeing Rolando escape through a window . . . hopefully some visual comedy.

So Rosa and Gracia are sisters! This still doesn't explain Gracia's reaction to seeing Rosa. Hmmm....

Does Natalia not know Gracia is her aunt? (QTH?)

So, despite Diego's best effort, idiot Paula went ahead and married Rolando. Bodus interruptus did not happen. Drat. This now means Rolando will have to die, in order for her to be with Pepe at El Por Fin. Fine with me.

Pepe finding The Note is one thing. Reading The Note is another. Something might distract him from that.

OoOoh, Zaida is in prison for murder! The Patio wonders who she killed? Or was she framed by MAL? The plot thickens.
 

Vida

Thanks, Rgv Chick, that was a great recap. I’m still in shock that Paula said yes! I really thought Lor would stop her when she and Pepe were together and obviously in love. He seems like a caring father and it’s hard to believe it didn’t give Paula advice. Then I figured she’d faint. There are so many ways the wedding could have been stopped. I loved Diego’s attempts.

I was sure Suzy had seen the kiss and would announce it before the wedding was over. I missed the paint and lip biting explanation!

So Gracia and Rosa are sisters. But Gracia has never met Nat so they haven’t seen each other in years. I’m sure we’ll find out why. Rosa is not very good at keeping secrets. I guess she’s clueless about what her daughter is really like and doesn’t think it’s a big deal to keep their relationship a secret.

Susan, when I read that Andrea’s mother was in prison for murder I had the same thought as you, that MAL framed her. I wouldn’t put it past her.

I can’t believe Alex is leaving for Spain. And doesn’t want to not pay for the land. He’s intent on sending Isabella back into Lorenzo’s arms.

Liz
 

Vivir de amor

Diana, thank you for this excellent recap! I don't know how you crank this stuff out so fast, yet so well done.

I am enjoying this novela, although there are lots of things I don't understand. I have no idea who Bryan is, or what that gang of guys was about, nor why they wanted to rough up the younger kid. About these guys, I'm lost.

I suppose that they were practicing stealing things and making fast getaways. Who the kid was or why he was treated as he was... I'm lost again.

I appreciate the way you named Angelli Angel, now I won't be confused and think there is another character involved, named Angel.

Anyway, Anjelli does seem to be a bit of an angel. I didn't completely understand their conversation, but it seems Angel wants to make sure that the firm's employees don't suffer much economic hardship now, and she was proposing some sort of cooperative to Adolfo. He seemed impressed and interested.

I'm actually distressed for poor Rebeca/Frida, she is going through an emotional wringer right now. She has always been a bad girl, a mean girl, even as a four year-old. I'm looking forward to seeing what becomes of her.

I have to wonder a little why she doesn't just come forward and tell Angel and Elena who she is. Did Doris really poison her mind so badly about what reception she would get, or is Rebeca just mentally unbalanced enough to think the worst? We certainly have not seen much good about her. I'm hoping for a redemption by the end of the story.

Again, thanks for your great recaps!

Andy
 

VIVIR

Good morning Liz.

More character influx make trying to figure out exactly what is transpiring so much more difficult!

Good point that hopefully JE sees his grandfather's warning about Misael as a truthful one.

I had hoped for Rebeca's "quick reveal" but alas...She is definitely trouble and is going to be a jealous thorn in her sister's side. I want to believe JE will remain faithful and true but when he said he loved his novia perhaps it was more of a stern reminder to himself.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Andy, thank you so much for your kind words.

It seems we are all in the dark as to who Bryan is and what he and his not so merry band of men are up to in general and especially with the young unidentified boy.

Thank you so much for "...it seems Angel wants to make sure that the firm's employees don't suffer much economic hardship now, and she was proposing some sort of cooperative to Adolfo. He seemed impressed and interested". I hadn't understood any of that and surely this will be important going foward.

"I have to wonder a little why she doesn't just come forward and tell Angel and Elena who she is. Did Doris really poison her mind so badly about what reception she would get, or is Rebeca just mentally unbalanced enough to think the worst?" was excellent. I'm thinking both??

Diana
 

VIDA


Thank you, Diana, Susan, Liz and Doris!

And Diana, thank you so much for mentioning that Reni threatened to "out" Diego if he opened his mouth during the ceremony. I also forgot to include the scene where Rosa tells Gracia that her daughter is there and she wants Gracia (who hasn't seen Nat since she was a baby) to meet her. Rosa explains that Nat has changed her name and asks Gracia to greet Nat formally and to not give any indication that they are family....because Nat is Paula's BFF (Backstabber Friend Forever) and the family doesn't know that she (Rosa) is her mother.

Susan, "Pepe has been hyperventilating a lot . He does a lot of scenery chewing . " Yes he does! and it's getting frustrating to watch him! And "why am I thinking perhaps MAL framed her and is the real murderer." I had not thought of that! It wouldn't surprise me at all!

Doris, Rolo climbing out of that window was comical, you'lll love it!

Liz, Lor reminded Paula of their conversation where he pointed out that Rol has always looked out for her and her kids...and that she needed to consider that Pepe's happiness would be short lived if Paula chose him (since she only has a few months more to live). I'm pretty sure that is why he didn't do anything to stop Paula.
 

VIVIR

Diana, your ability to grasp things only be what you see and infer amazes me. Thank you for your notes!

Brian is the guy with the corn rows and long braids and the leader of the gang in Rebeca's 'hood. The young kid is Doris's brother (I think). Brian accepts him into the gang after he proves himself by stealing from the woman. And Rebeca did ask Ramiro and the kid to run over Angelii, but Brian showed up and told them that only he does favors for Rebeca; so they told Brian what they were supposed to do for Rebeca. I'm pretty sure Rebeca was planning for Angelli to get killed; she got the idea when the two boys almost ran over her and Doris commented that they could've killed her.

In regards to Angelii and Adolfo. The conversation stemmed from a previous scene where Angelii overheard some women complaining that they are going to loose their jobs because a factory is going bankrupt...and Angelii offered to help them. Adolfo tells Angelii that he has looked into the factory and found that they will close but will give the employees a small severance payment. Angelii suggests that Adolfo help out the women more by creating a cooperative--the women could keep their jobs and since they know everything about making the marmalade, they could run the factory themselves.

I'm so glad JE took Don E's warning about Misael seriously. And I loved how JE told Misael that he was remaining at the company and warned Misael that he was going to make sure that the company was run with the integrity and values that their grandfather had run it with.
 

vida
Thanks, rgv chick.
I don't remember the last time I found it so hard to watch a telenovela because of this weird plot where Paula is determined to suffer.Why ask Pepe if he wants to tell her anything more if she is about to get married? I suppose they had to let her marry him but it felt so contrived.
Rafa's courage didn't last long did it? I can never understand why characters think it's a good idea to threaten someone when that person has something they can use against them. I wonder what she'd have done if Rafa had just gone and told Pepe the truth. She would definitely have hurt Lucia, but she couldn't have stopped Rafa.
Why do I think Alex won't be able to go through with his plan?
 

Vivir

Thanks, Diana.

"Rebecca's" level of hatred has no logic to it and didn't from the get-go. I'm just about to watch The Bad Seed. That's the answer. She was just Born Bad. She may even get off on being cruel and snobbish (in which case she needs to lose the tats. I hope the actress doesn't really have those).

I do fear for the abuelo's life.
 

Vivir

Well, watching young Frida grab tiny Angeli's doll and hurl it away in the first showed us that Frida was a cruel little girl who was jealous of her little sister . By the constant scowl on her face now, it seems that Frida hasn't changed from that nasty , jealous little girl that she was . It will be interesting to watch how the dynamic between towering Frida and teeny Angeli plays out. After watching Kim play a very wicked witch who kept busy lying, seducing , killing, and playing with fire on " Vuelve a mi" on Telemundo , I am having trouble buying her as the kind, delicate flower Angeli.
Susan
 

VIVIR

Rgv Chick, thank you so much for not only your kind words but for all you have added to clarify much that occurred last night.

Ahhh, so the young man is Doris' brother!

I so appreciate your "I'm pretty sure Rebeca was planning for Angelli to get killed; she got the idea when the two boys almost ran over her and Doris commented that they could've killed her". This confirms her cold bloodedness and premeditation.

You enlightened me further with "Angelii suggests that Adolfo help out the women more by creating a cooperative--the women could keep their jobs and since they know everything about making the marmalade, they could run the factory themselves". Until you and Andy expanded on Angel and Adolfo's conversation, I was unaware of any of this.

JE seems quite noble. Let's hope he continues to be true blue to his lady love and isn't led astray by Rebeca's evil machinations.

Diana
 

Vivir de amor

Rgv Chick, thank you for the clarifications!

So Angelli really is an angel, going around helping people :-)

Adolfo seems like a good guy who made a big mistake at some point in his life, winding up with Monica rather than Cristina. He does seem to regret whatever occurred, but it's too bad he doesn't know how bad his son, Misael, really is.

Monica is pretty terrible, but I have to admit I find her to be fun. Even her appearance; she seems to have a large mouth and teeth. Maybe it's from a lifetime of butting in to give her unwanted opinion.

As I said, I do find her a fun character, but I feel for poor Adolfo.

Andy
 

VIVIR

Urban, yes, Rebeca was indeed "born bad". A simple but completely correct observation.

"By the constant scowl on her face now, it seems that Frida hasn't changed from that nasty , jealous little girl that she was" nailed it Susan!

Diana
 

Vivir


Ohhhh....I hope that they name the new womanowned cooperative Lady Marmalade.
Shout out to Patty Labelle and the Blue bells .
Susan
 

VIVIR

"Monica is pretty terrible, but I have to admit I find her to be fun. Even her appearance; she seems to have a large mouth and teeth. Maybe it's from a lifetime of butting in to give her unwanted opinion".

Andy, I just laughed out loud. Perfect. Just perfect. Thank you, I needed that.

Diana
 

Vivir de amor

Susan, that's a great idea, "....I hope that they name the new womanowned cooperative Lady Marmalade."

I don't know if anyone would get it in Mexico, but I love it.

Andy
 

OT....Diana, I think the Andy has taken Dr.Carlos's place as defender of bad girls .

Gaby Spanic is always larger than life in her portrayals of wicked , witchy women. I find her voice very interesting ...always dripping with malice and contempt.
Susan
 

VIDA

Post watch ...

>>>"but Paula tells him that his being there is like a sign…she asks if he needs to tell her something more."

Paula looked like she had been struck with the idiot stick in that scene. WHAT did she expect??? Pepe to kidnap her? What more could he tell her? Nothing was going to change on Paula's end. Argh!!! Right now Paula deserves Rolo as her husband. Her kids do not, however, and that is the only tragedy.

Costume department did a good job keeping Rol's pants from ripping.

Dear Pepe, please, please, porfis, read that blasted note in your jacket!
 

Vivir

Terrific job, Diana. May faves:

"Adolfo smiles but Misael’s smile is far from genuine." I'm putting Misael in the total dark side now.

"Angel tries on wedding dresses and looks well, you know, like an angel from heaven in every single one." Now that we've seen the gown, I worry that there will be no wedding. Isn't it a rule that Viewerville doesn't get to see the final wedding gown until the wedding is held - and without a hitch?

If JE doesn't see that Rebecca/Frida is loca and interested, I'm done with him. To his credit though, after the lip paralysis, he did say "no" when she asked him out to a cafe.

The fellow that joined the gang just happens to be a video gamer buddy of Luciano's daughter. When that whole gang bullying came out of nowhere, at first I thought I'd tuned to the wrong station.

So Frida was going to have the cyclist kill Angel? She's worse than I thought.
 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Niecie!

"The fellow that joined the gang just happens to be a video gamer buddy of Luciano's daughter. When that whole gang bullying came out of nowhere, at first I thought I'd tuned to the wrong station". Niecie, I cannot thank you enough for this. Yes, that is where we saw the young man! That scene felt as though it came out of nowhere and I briefly wondered what the point of it was. Perhaps it was meant to show some sort of relationship between him and Luciano's family.

Very astute observation about the wedding gown! I hadn't considered it but yes, the dress is usually not revealed until the ceremony. This certainly adds to the foreshadowing of a very rocky road ahead for our lovebirds.

Frida crossed the line. If not for her mother's presence, her sister would be dead. On her orders.

Diana
 

VIVIR #5 Part 1

Thank you to everyone who added so much that I missed! This is a wonderful team effort and I am extremely appreciative. Any additional information and/or corrections are greatly appreciated.

During the aftermath of the near accident, Angel murmurs her thanks to Rebeca as Elena struggles not to fall. Elena thanks Rebeca, staring at her with faint recognition as Angel continues to hold her up. Brian and his cohort scram.

JE seems to be arguing with Bruno, ending up cutting him off. Romina, trying desperately to make a good impression attempts to introduce herself. Misael storms over and brings JE and Cristina into a conference room to “talk” (fight) further.

Rebeca, Elena and Angel are in a restaurant where mother and daughter continue to hold hands in support. Rebeca introduces herself as Erica. Kind Angel offers her a job.

Romina’s paperwork appears to be in order. Luciano calls Romina at this inopportune time and she cuts the conversation as short as possible, mentioning the dreaded “D” word, divorce. “Goodbye” Luciano she mutters. Mati is standing there asking about her mother and Luciano doesn’t seem to know what to say. Mati leaves (understandably upset) and Luciano loses his temper. He tries to explain that her mother has a good opportunity. In tears she runs off and shuts the door, throwing herself on the bed, lamenting losing her home and her mother. Luciano urges her to be calm.

Gaby, who works in the office brings reports to JE and Cristina.

JE is going to be a problem Misael tells Bruno and says something about Fatima.

The nice young girl at Luciano’s is Sandra; she talks with Fatima.

Rodolfo and Angel meet with a group of women regarding the cooperative. It’s a great opportunity for everyone to get involved Angel assures them.

JE is cheering up Don Emiliano. He tells him how good he is and JE rewards him with a kiss on the forehead.

Elsewhere, Rebeca is fantasizing about JE, recalling running into him on purpose and her forced kiss. She tells Doris that Emiliano is different (not to mention he is loaded too).

Cristina speaks with Gi about Rebeca who we see strutting down the hospital hall looking for Don Emilio. His room is empty and she asks the nurse if he died. We next see he is being welcomed home. He feels he is going to be a bother but Dulce, patting her stomach assures him he will not be. Monica arrives to ruin his homecoming as Don Emilio clutches his hands together. JE calms him down and Dulce assures him this is his home. Cris says the most important thing is that he is home with his family.

Luciano and Fatima talk and he bows at the waist leaning in, almost kissing her. She smiles but walks off. He tries again (persistent isn’t he) and she again walks away.

Diana
 

VIVIR #5 Part 2 of 2

Mati is playing games with our mystery boy and we learn his name is Lucas.

Angel and Gi post a video where Angel is fingering an array of sparkling sequined dresses. Naturally, Frida is watching when her non-mom comes in. I think she is trying to con her for money.

Fatima greets Bruno with a kiss as he reacts with barely concealed impatience. He hits on a young girl from the hacienda and stares lasciviously.

Don Emilio catches Angel and JE kissing and hugging.

Misael and Santiago meet in the restaurant. Misael flashes a watch calling him stupid. He wants him to rob Don Emilio’s house! After he agrees, Misael gives him the watch back (I gather Santiago must have stolen it). As Misael leaves the restaurant, he puts his glass on a tray, held by Rebeca. She gives him a little lip and stares at her chest as she directs his attention to her face. He smiles, liking what he sess.

Some of the family is at a rodeo where JE is of course competing, taking center stage.

Meanwhile, Misael calls Bruno.

Elena and Gi ask the chef what he thinks of Rebeca. He takes a look at her and walks away.

Luciano introduces his son to Fatima. You are married she asks incredulously? Si he acknowledges and receives a huge slap.

JE introduces Angel to Luciano and asks him where his wife and children are. Mati tells her brother their mother is not coming back.

Bruno attacks the young girl and Fatima catches him.

“Maldito Renato” Rebeca says indicating they have a past (?)

Bruno’s bags have been packed and he is banished from the house. Fatima catches Javier on the phone under her desk. He says their mother abandoned them. Luciano shows up and they hug. Fatima explains Javier was using the Wi-Fi in her office. Luciano goes after her and thanks her. He explains that his children are very important to him. She understands the situation now saying he is a great father and almost gives in to the kiss but runs off.

JE and Angel have a romantic night in bed. He enthuses about his future esposa and they seem glowingly happy, which we know will not last long.

Dulce and her husband are so excited about their baby and there is a sweet bassinette next to the bed. He kisses her stomach and they talk about forever, which certainly seems to signal doom.

Cris asks JE if he is happy and he smiles that he is. We see Rebeca fingering some dresses.

Cristina is getting dressed when Santiago leaves and is met by Misael.

Everyone is gathered and playing pool. Meanwhile Santiago, in a black hood, is breaking into Don Emilio’s. Misael joins the festivities.

Santiago is feverishly trying to break into the safe. Don Emilio is giving Misael the stink eye. Rebeca is at the gate trying to gain access, thinking leaning as hard as she can on the horn will get her in faster. Santiago calls Misael and Misael heads out.

Santiago takes the papers out of the safe and hides them in a book. Then Misael takes a huge pile of money out of the safe as he turns and trains the gun on Santiago. Finally realizing that Misael has set him up, he starts to panic and beg. At that moment, Dulce appears. She takes in the scene and immediately (and bravely) tries to intervene. She and Misael struggle for the gun and it goes off!!

Diana
 

Vivir

Diana, thank you for a great recap as this story unfolds .

Rebeca\Frida and Misael have found each other . We've heard of the goodlooking guy who doesn't know he is good looking , but Misael is the good looking guy who knows for sure that he is good looking . ....He just doesnt realize his hairdo is fighting his good looks.

Poor Dulce walked into that office at the wrong time . How is Misael going to wiggle out of this?

I like Luciano. I think I saw him in a telenovela a couple years ago when he had long hair.

Bruno has quickly been revealed as a creep.
Susan
 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Susan!

Yes, Misael certainly does think he is good looking. And oh my, I can't blame in the least because it is the unvarnished truth. The hair though is horrendous. :)

Luciano is being played by Juan Diego Covarrubias. He's been in a few things including Vencer el desamor. Interestingly, he was the romantic lead in Disenando tu amor, opposite Gala Montes, who of course is Rebeca here!

I'm very afraid for Dulce, especially seeing that tender scene with her husband...

Diana
 

Vivir de amor

Diana, thanks for another great recap. As I've said before, I can't imagine how you do such excellent recaps so quickly. But I am so glad that you do!

This was not a fun chapter. Bruno forcing himself on the young girl, Sandra, was really gross. A girl, "12 going on 20", is still really just 12, or whatever her age is. Bruno belongs in jail.

Luciano is better off being rid of Romina, though their kids will suffer for a while. Romina herself better watch out; she is ambitious, but I don't know that she is as rotten as Misael and Bruno, but she is now swimming with sharks.

Odd that Misael and Santiago meet at Angelli's restaurant. I would think guys plotting a serious crime would not want to be somewhere that people might know who they are. Good thing Elena didn't stroll by and see the stolen watch.

I didn't understand what Rebeca was doing trying to get into the party. Was she invited? Did she think she could just show up anytime she wanted? I'm sure I missed something here.

I should have enrolled in telenovela prep school for a refresher before starting to watch this show. I'm always quite a bit behind.

Andy
 

vivir

Thanks again, Diana. I really appreciate your fine and VERY speedy recaps.

Yep, Rebeca was getting her adoptive mother to give up her savings. Believe it was to buy a dress to show up at the engagement party. It's kind of nuts that she thinks she can crash it.

The back story, I think, is that the chef at the del Olmos restaurant is the guy we briefly met in the first episode, the one Rebeca dated that one time. He left her to walk home. I think she was trying to push him into a serious relationship and he just...well we can guess.

I am relieved that Fatima found out what a complete jerk Bruno is early on.

I'm a little confused, but I think Misael wants Fatima to come back to work at the business. He sent Bruno there for that reason, to get her to come back. Does he think Jose Emilio will have to go to the hacienda if she returns?

I have a bad feeling about that last scene. Are they going with poor Dulce being shot to death and the baby being delivered just in time?

Misael is a true monster. He manipulates Santiago into breaking in. He gets what he wants, the papers from the safe, but then he decides to either shoot him or get him arrested.
 

VIVIR

I appreciate your kind words Andy. Thank you!

As you so sagely noted "Bruno forcing himself on the young girl, Sandra, was really gross. A girl, "12 going on 20", is still really just 12, or whatever her age is. Bruno belongs in jail. Exactly! Bruno and Fatima as a couple make absolutely no sense. Aside from the obvious that he would brutally attack an innocent young girl, he is dour, sour and has absolutely no redeeming qualitites, let alone charisma. Although Fatima kicked him to the curb, I was surprised he was there at the family gathering last night. I can only think Fatima hadn't had time to enlighten her family.

Good point about Santiago and Misael's meeting at Angel's restaurant. No covert operation there :)

Andy, I was also wondering about Rebeca's trek to the party. I doubt she was invited. I'm thinking she was trying to push her way in but what she plans on saying can only be speculated upon.

There's a lot going on here and I'm lost in the sauce much of the time... :)

Diana
 

VIVIR

Thank you very much Novelera!

Thank you for confirming Rebeca wanted to bilk her non-mom out of her surely pitiful savings.

I thought the chef might have been the guy who drove and dumped Rebeca but I wasn't at all sure so appreciate your noting it was!

"Misael is a monster". YES!!!

Novelera, based on her tender scene with her husband, I have a very bad feeling about what will happen to Dulce. Pure speculation, no spoiler. We won't have long to wait.

Diana




 

Vivir

Thank you Diana! Your recap is wonderful as always! I think you understand a whole lot more than you give yourself credit for and it's really fun seeing how your confidence has grown as you've gone from writing recaps only with Rgv Chick's helping with the vocab to writing your own summaries and diving right in! You are an inspiration!


Wow, that Luciano doesn't let the grass grow under his feet, does he? LOL It's fun to watch though, bold little confident thing, and Fatima likes it too, she just hasn't admitted it yet.

Yep, Renato is the same guy. I think the actor is the same actor who played Luis on Enternamente Amandonos. It was a little harder to tell last night with no close ups.

Bruno is a pig and Misael is a smart little devil....I'm worried for both Dulce and Santiago - Santi isn't smart and he's in over his head but he isn't necessarily a baddie, at least not yet.

So JE and Luciano are old friends, but JE didn't recognize Romina at the office?? That confuses me a little.

I think Rebeca's plan was to announce herself at the engagement party. As she was getting ready, her horrible friend asked her if she was ever going back to work(ie. her new job at the restaurant), and she said yes, but she's going back as the new owner not a hostess, making me think she was ready to tell the world who she really is, but I'm sure something will get in the way of that! Although, I personally think it'd be fun if she did come 'clean' sooner than later and started scheming from the inside instead of the outside looking in.

 

VIVIR

Darcy, thank you for your very kind words.

Usually it takes me weeks to understand what is transpiring in a new TN, done mostly through reading others' excellent recaps. For some strange reason, I am finding I actually have an inkling of what is transpiring here (at least some of the time 😊). While I am not going to be able to recap every night, I am happy to forge ahead and do what I can. A fantastic, supportive patio has formed and added so much that I miss!

"Bruno is a pig and Misael is a smart little devil" was spot on! So Renato is the chef, thank you.

Great point about JE not recognizing Romina if he and Luciano are supposedly such good friends.

"I think Rebeca's plan was to announce herself at the engagement party...going back as the new owner not a hostess, making me think she was ready to tell the world who she really is, but I'm sure something will get in the way of that!" sounds just about right! I agree that in view of Dulce and Santiago's life and death crisis, Rebeca's revelation will need to wait a bit.

Diana
 

Vivir

Thanks Diana, that was great. I can understand Rebecca crashing the party, well not really, what does she plan to do, plant another kiss on JE and claim him as hers? I don’t understand why she was in the hospital to visit Don Emiliano. She never met him. I think she feels she’s more beautiful and charming than she is.

Bruno sure showed us what a creep he is. Attacking a young girl. I guess he would have raped her. I’m glad Fatima caught him.

Misael attempting to kill his cousin’s future brother-in-law was bad. I guess that was his plan all along. Dulce getting shot was horrible. I hope she’ll live. She got shot in the stomach, I think. But if she lives she can tell what she saw, so I don’t know.

Things are happening fast in this.

Liz
 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Liz!

Yes, whyever would Rebeca visit Don Emiliano?? Great question.

"I think she feels she's more beautiful and charming than she is" had me smiling away. Pretty yes, but so far, without any warmth at all.

I don't hold out much hope for Dulce. I wish I did.

Diana
 

VIDA #31 Part 1/3

THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE, but it will devastate you, too.
Boy howdy, did we ever have a jam-packed episode. Fasten your seatbelts; you're in for a bumpy ride.


Here are highlights, typos, errors, and all. Please add to anything I missed. Not necessarily in chronological order:

PEPE pulls the note out of his jacket but Isa wants to talk about Pepe’s feelings. Pepe is all torn up over losing Paula. The note is not read.

GRACIA tells Rosa her daughter is shameless for acting in public like Rosa is not her mother. After the wedding, Rosa gives Gracia her phone numbers. Natalia enters and Rosa introduces her to Gracia, who leaves quickly. Nat tells Rosa that she shouldn’t have introduced her to Gracia…people will wonder why.
Rosa also tells Nat that it seems Lorenzo believes Nat did something wrong. Is there something she wants to tell her mother? Nat says yes, less questions and the only person Rosa is to be loyal to is Natalia.

PAULA feels weak so Lor escorts her into the house. She tells Rol she never feels that way when she’s with Pepe. Lor points out the redundant: Pepe is married, Paula chose to marry Rol, and now she needs to concentrate on writing out her Last Will & Testament. IOW, get your affairs in order.
- Paula has a small freak-out that she is dying. Lorenzo philosophically points out that WE ARE ALL GOING TO DIE.

EMILIANO congratulates Diego for not making a scene at the boda. Emi opens the box from Lucia that has the half-rock and her note. He’s excited and texts Lucia, who astutely figures out this is Andrea’s work. Lucia won’t respond and confronts Andrea, reminding her that Emi is leaving the country tomorrow.
-Somehow, Emi knows where to find Lucia. He kisses her in spite of planning to leave for Europe tomorrow with is current girlfriend.
- Lucia tells Emi she didn’t write the note, that it was Andrea. Lucia does not want anything more to do with Emi because she likes someone else. Andrea, upon hearing this, looked like she just ate a lemon.
- Emi wants to know who Lucia likes. She says nobody he knows, then Lucia rips into him, asking does Renata know he’s here trying to kiss her? He’s leaving tomorrow for a year in Europe WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND. Is she supposed to sit around for a year or five and wait for him? (atta girl, Lucía!)
 

VIDA #31 Part 2/3

PEPE and RAFA --- (fasten your seat belts, Patio, we’re in for a bumpy ride) The bros go into the house to have a talk. Pepe tells Rafa that Paula went ahead and got married. Pepe pours out his broken heart in a Shakespearean worthy performance. MAL comes in, sees Rafa hugging a devastate Pepe, and yells “You told you?!?”

Pepe wants to know what Rafa could have told him. MALcovers well and wants to know why Pepe’s so sad. He dumps a glass of water on Pepe to get rid of him and looks for the note in his jacket. It’s not there. Ruh-roh! It’s in Pepe’s jeans pocket with his keys and wallet. Rafa tells MAL he is still going to tell Pepe the truth.

MAL denies the truth . Ad nauseum. And we are not surprised. Nor amused. Rafa yells at her that NOT(ING is to be gained with lies. She wants to know where the note came from (as if she doesn’t know).

Pepe is royally angry at Rafa “My own brother is my wife’s lover” Then the light comes on and it dawns on Pepe that ….. Mal’s baby is Rafa’s!!! Dun, dun, dunnnn!!! He gives Rafa The Death Stare.

MAL wants to talk to Pepe, who says “sueltame” (another Bingo box checked off). He is angry; he lied for Malena by agreeing to claim the baby as his. He is so betrayed….by his own hermano. Mal, because she is so intelligent, asks Pepe “you’re hurt?” Well, duh. He says he turned down Paula because of this baby that needs a father. Pepe is full of rage over all this. Yet he couldn’t punch Rafa.

RAULA (not a typo) Rolando tells Paula she should be outside with the guests at their reception. Paula says she trusts Rol will treat her kids well and she will be faithful to their vows. He says the only thing he wants is to take care of her.
- Paula goes into the bathroom and seconds later Natalia enters. She tells Rol the guests are leaving, he says Paula is in el bano. Nat says lets get together at your house tonight while she’s trying to rub up all over him. ‘ Paula walks in and asks what’s going on. Rolando covertly wipes Natalia's lipstick off his mouth.
- Nat says they’ll tell Paula “the truth.” (ha!) She and Rol are very worried about her health. Paula’s not buying it and says, “I’m not stupid. What were you and Nat talking about?” Paula senses that something is going on between those two.
 

VIDA #31 Part 3/3

- Paula says if there’s something between you and Nat, you need to tell me. We need to be honest about everything. Rol denies and declares he is profoundly in love with Paula. (gag) Paula says if he has something going on with Natalia, please be careful for the kids’sake, after all, you’ll be a widower in six months. (and you can do whatever you want at that time). Roll again assures Paula he loves her. (gag)
- Rol asks Paula if she wants to separate already. (I’m hoping she’ll get an annulment because the marriage hasn’t been consummated…but I digress) You two were standing too close together and she interrupted something. She says she knew Nat had a thing for Rol. Does he have strong feelings for Nat?
- Paula tells Rol they “will go on their honeymoon” tomorrow but in reality she is starting her cancer treatments tomorrow. So, keep lying to the kids.

BACK TO RAFA, PEPE & MAL ---It comes to light that this affair has been going on for TWO YEARS!!! Mal continues to deny anything happened between her and Rafa. Pepe cannot bring himself to punch Rafa but his words are stronger, anyway, saying Rafa caused the destruction of his family. He also rants at Mal, telling her to not say “mi amor” ever again. Te desprecio con todo mi alma and you two deserve each other. He tells Rafa it would have hurt less if he’d put a bullet in his chest.
- TEO enters and asks if they’re fighting. Pepe tells Teo that Mal won’t be sleeping in their house with them. Teo goes and hugs Mal. Pepe leaves with Teo and MAL sets into Rafa “see what you started? By telling the truth? “ Of course its always Rafa’s fault and she is the victim, right? She pretty much tells Rafa he’s a dumb@ss. Nice lady. Not.

ALEX
- and Isa (yawn) Alex is leaving next week for Spain. More of the same old conversations.
Later, Alex finds Rafa who says he wants to die. (Apparently Rafa had no ability to think ahead regarding potential consequences to his actions). Alex tells him there is no problem too big to solve. When he tells Alex the truth, Alex punches Rafa. (Finally! Someone punched that idiot!)

ISABELA – tries to comfort a distraught Pepe. He tells her that Malena’s lover was his own brother, Rafa. Isa is shocked.

Whew! I'm worn out.

FIN
 

Vivir

I dont see how Dulce can survive unless they play the amnesia card because if she survives , Misael will be outed.

Rebeca\Frida seems to be working on her plan to return to her family and.....take over.

I didnt recognize the chef , but I remember that he had dark hair. He didn't seem to say much when he was talking to Angel Baby and Elena . I suppose ReFrida will have to bring him into her Takeover plans .

I don't know where we are headec except that Refrida and her neighborhood is going to shake things up.

Dies anyone know what the kind of company the family has ?
Susan

 

Vivir

Do we know what is produced on the ranch ?

In " Herencia" we learned all about avocado farming . I found it fascinating seeing the avocados hanging by their stems from huge trees . We also got lots of avocado art hanging on the walls of the corporate offices . It made me cringe a bit less as I bought my $2.99 avocado at the grocery store every week.

In "Destilando Amor" , we went into the agave fields and then into the tequila factories .

Susan
 

Vivir #5

Great work, Diana.

I also wonder how unhinged Misael must be to put Santiago in a position to be killed, especially after the unmasking. Under the heading of "Not our kind of people" this is something most rich people don't want the hoi polloi to find out on the 6 o'clock news.

Of course, Monica has enough declasse to not care as long as it's Elena's son getting exposed or killed and not her own.

My guess is that Dulce will be in a coma after this episode and Rebecca will somehow be prevented from doing The Big Reveal. I remember past novela situations in which a "long-estranged cousin" was discovered to be an imposter by the final week. Rebecca will probably be discovered at mid-series. She is truly unhinged.

She is pretty in her way but it's not an upper-class one. That requires an ice queen look that is the opposite of curly hair and tats.
 

Vida

Thanks so much Doris, you captured every moment of all the drama.

I’m surprised the truth about MAL and Rafa is out so soon. And Paula seemed on the verge of figuring out there’s something between Rol and Nat. I wonder if Rol convinced her of his love for her. Spelled GREED. Hopefully this marriage will never be consummated.

I was glad Lucia told Emi off. He really is clueless about how dating works. She spelled it out for him. You don’t kiss a girl the day before an extended European trip with another girl.

I’m hoping Gracia will open Rosa’s eyes about Nat. She sure let her know what she thought of her daughter’s actions.

I really thought the baby’s dad wouldn’t be revealed until the end. It will be interesting to see what they do with this storyline.

Liz
 

VIDA

Your recap of all of the very disturbing events was excellent Doris. You expertly relayed all of the high drama and emotions.

"Pepe is royally angry at Rafa “My own brother is my wife’s lover” Then the light comes on and it dawns on Pepe that ….. Mal’s baby is Rafa’s!!! Dun, dun, dunnnn!!! He gives Rafa The Death Stare" summed it up perfectly.

We knew the "reveal" was going to be tough, but this was wretched. Pepe's heartbroken incredulity combined with Rafa's remorse and guilt was almost too difficult to watch. I did not feel for Mal because all of her emotions bubbled up simply because she was caught.

"PAULA feels weak so Lor escorts her into the house. She tells Rol she never feels that way when she’s with Pepe". Good heavens woman, then why on earth did you go through with your sham of a marriage? Pepe is finally done with MAL and you are saddled with someone you can't stand.

And then there is this: "Paula says if he has something going on with Natalia, please be careful for the kids’sake, after all, you’ll be a widower in six months. (and you can do whatever you want at that time)". Ack. I don't even know what to say.

The aftermath is going to be terrible as well. Lives destroyed due to a scrap of paper...

Diana
 

VIDA

Thank you, Doris! Ditto on Diana’s comment that you expertly relayed all the drama.

It seems like everyone’s world is plummeting to middle earth…and no one is doing anything to stop it. Is there anything else that could go wrong? Ehhh…don’t answer that! LOL

So what will Mal-icious do now? I hate to even imagine her next step. I wonder if she’ll follow through on targeting Andrea.

Isabela and Alex are starting to bore me…he can just leave and take her with him…that would save us so much time.

 

VIVIR

Diana, I am speechless…you got all the essential parts! Well done, Amiga!

I don’t have much to add. I’m just hoping that the TN gods have Dulce and the baby survive.


 

VIVIR

Thank you Urban!

I smiled in great appreciation at your comment on Rebeca: "She is pretty in her way but it's not an upper-class one. That requires an ice queen look that is the opposite of curly hair and tats". 😊

Diana
 

VIVIR

Such a lovely compliment, thank you so much Rgv Chick!

"I'm just hoping that the TN gods have Dulce and the baby survive".

I fervently hope that's the case but I just have a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach...

Diana
 

VIDA

Thanks for all your comments. It was a doozy of an episode. It was time to out the Mal/Rafa secret because no doubt all y'all were getting as bored with the lies and threats as I was. I was just happy that *something* happened to shake up the lather, rinse, repeat of the recent episodes.
 

Vivir

Thanks, Diana. So far something totally unexpected has happened in each episode. You've done a remarkable job of connecting it all.

I guess we'll never know for sure, but I don't think Misael intended to kill Santiago but instead only force him to remove his ski mask so there'd be an incriminating video of his thieving and Misael could keep Santiago under his thumb forever.

Poor Dulce charging in and wrestling for the gun. Horrifying. I didn't expect we'd return to a hospital vigil so soon. Sad.

I can't tell if Luciano and Romina know that they'll be working for the same company. Before last night, I thought she'd landed a dream job out of the country somewhere. Kind of awkward to abandon your kids for a job and then have them see you living right around the corner.

I'm speculating that Angel was showing the clothes to donate for charity to help fund the new women's cooperative. She said something to her godmom/aunt(?) about not caring much about clothes. This sure is a cautionary tale about not livestreaming your life. Each one fuels Rebecca/Frida hatred.
 

Vida #31

I'm late again; sorry, Doris.

It's about time Pepe found out and all three parties to this reacted as expected. Pepe had a hard time accepting that Rafa did this while MALena denied denied denied, and Rafa tried in vain to explain. This will shock everyone but the other adults will get over this eventually once they know MALena's true evil. The kids will need help.

My big question now will be what will Paula do when she learns about Rol and Nat.
 

VIVIR #6 Part 1

Heartbreaking losses and terrible tragedies…

Hearing the shot, the participants at the gathering are alert and immediately concerned.

After the shot is fired, Dulce collapses as Santiago holds her. She falls to the floor and he rushes out of the room as a horrified Misael escapes through a different door.

Outside, a masked Santiago runs smack into Angel. She stares at him as he walks past her without a word.

Dulce is bleeding profusely as JE calls for an ambulance. Amazingly, it is Angel who makes it into the room from outside faster than those in the adjoining room. Dulce’s husband Sebastian rushes in inconsolable as everyone else filters in, crying. Cristina is on the floor, lying next to her unresponsive daughter. Misael makes a show of sorrow as he rips the camera off of the table!

Rebeca manages to gain entrance into the soiree.

A woman named Marisa flirts with??

Rebeca walks into the house in a too short but otherwise rather modest black dress. She soaks in the ambiance, recalling running through the halls as a child. She sees the pictures of herself and her father immortalized next to burning candles.

The ambulance has arrived with JE at his sister’s side as she is wheeled into surgery. Cristina is beside herself.

“Hello Rebeca” Elena says but just as Rebeca starts to speak, Angel calls and interrupts. Elena excuses herself as tears of frustration gather in Rebeca’s eyes.

Police are at the scene and a policewoman picks up the gun, bagging the evidence. Misael lurks outside the room biting his hand and crying, shaken to the core. He fixes his lapel, stiffens his spine and joins Fatima, Bruno and Adolfo. Slime Bruno tells Fatima he is there for her and hugs her. The policewoman wants to take their statements. Monica is first. Don Emiliano sleeps in his wheelchair.

We see Monica and Misael’s short answers to a few questions and Misael specifically mentions Bruno. When Bruno is interrogated, he seems to backtrack/apologize for something he either said or didn’t say.

Back home, Rebeca beyotches to Doris, Angel being the main source of her frustration.

Diana
 

VIVIR #6 Part 2 of 2

Angel gives her testimony about running into the masked man. She mentions his neck tattoo and is asked to write down what it looked like.

The doctor says the baby is in intensive care. How is my wife Sebastian asks? There was extensive damage and I am sorry but your wife is dead. Cristina., JE and Santiago are awash in grief.

Angel’s discussion continues with the policewoman, she is crying with grief when JE calls her. Dulce didn’t survive …Angel repeats Dulce died? The policewoman looks up and shakes her head knowingly.

Sebastian is at the nursery window saying hello mi amor to his tiny child.

Everyone is still gathered and the police are milling around. Angel has the impossible job of sharing the unbearable news that Dulce has died. Everyone breaks down except for Monica of course. Misael looks genuinely distressed. And frightened.

JE pauses at the morgue door recalling Dulce asking him to be godfather (I think). He approaches the cold stainless-steel table where Dulce’s lifeless body lies and asks her forgiveness kissing her forehead. He vows to find whoever is responsible, leaning against the wall as Elena and Sebastian arrive. Sebastian caresses his wife’s forehead and kisses her cold, lifeless lips. Elena mourns the loss of her beloved daughter and caresses her hair as she invokes God in her murmurings. JE holds his mother, again begging for forgiveness. Sebastian assures him it is not his fault.

The doctor relates the infant is in very serious condition.

Brian and his gang (including Lucas) are meeting. Ramiro doesn’t like Lucas but Brian seems to be sticking up for him.

Angel and JE now look through the nursery glass offering encouragement and smiles that don’t quite reach their eyes. JE continues his heartbreaking cries when all of a sudden, the monitor goes off! The doctor and nurse arrive immediately. The little innocent is flatlining and tragically, the baby also dies. “No no” JE cries, covering his face with his hands collapsing on the floor as Angel holds him tightly. Next, Dulce’s apparition appears and she goes to the crib and lifts her cherished child. She hugs the tiny bundle tenderly and vanishes into thin air, mother and child united first in birth, now in death. JE cries no and asks why!!

When the waiting room is told of the unbearable passing, Santiago embraces his brother-in-law both with broken hearts and crushed spirits.

Misael threatens Santiago that he will end up in jail. Santiago asks how Dulce is but I don’t think he answers. Misael throws Santiago a wad of money and drives off.

Cristina looks at her daughter’s picture and recalls Dulce telling her she was pregnant. Cristina was overjoyed. Her face falls as she is immersed in grief and she kisses her daughter’s picture.

At the funeral home there is the casket containing Dulce’s physical body. But on top of the coffin, there is a tiny white coffin the sight of which can barely be borne.

Outside, Santiago sees the wreath and realizes Dulce has died.

Fatima and JE are inconsolable. Cristina descends the stairs and slowly walks over to the table, first clutching her daughter’s casket, then the casket containing her already beloved grandchild she never got to hold.

Diana
 

Vivir #6

Thanks, Diana.

It looks like nobody touched the gun after Misael dropped it, so only Dulce's prints would be on it now. Santiago was too close to the crime scene to not become a suspect so now Misael could throw him under the bus. Even if he doesn't this will destroy Santiago from within.

That stupid tattoo will be Santiago's other undoing.

Rebecca She is still in narcissist mode projecting her own hatred onto Angeli.

The lady detective is a total pro.

Fashion Review:

Rebecca needs a Pygmalion if she ever expects to get into "high society." That dress may have been modest by her standards but would not have been appropriate for the party she was looking to crash.

The female detective was dressed a la Olivia Benson; good wardrobe choice.

Cristina's dress was fabulous vs Monica's floral blouse, too-low neckline, and too-tight skirt. Must also mention the red shoes. No woman whose legs are less than long and not slender should wear ankle straps. Mutton dressed as lamb will probably be the theme of Gabriela Spanic's ongoing fashion felonies.

She is not aging gracefully vs Eugenia Cauduro (Cristina) who looks the elegant Grand Dame.

Finally, was that the mansion from Eternamente Amandonos?
 

Vivir de amor

What a heartbreaking episode this was. I could barely watch it all.

Diana, you recounted it perfectly and with very great sensitivity, which this episode really needed.

More tomorrow, this is enough for me for now.

Andy
 

VIVIR

Urban, I suspect that Santiago will likely be blamed for the murder for just the reasons you noted.

Thank you for all the fashion faux pas you noted and the Cristina vs. Monica what to and what not to wear. It is usually a focal point for me but tonight, I was so drawn into the storyline and getting increasingly upset, needed to focus solely on what was transpiring.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Niecie, I just saw your comment on last night's episode.

"I can't tell if Luciano and Romina know that they'll be working for the same company. Before last night, I thought she'd landed a dream job out of the country somewhere. Kind of awkward to abandon your kids for a job and then have them see you living right around the corner" was excellent. Initially, I also thought Romina was destined for some fabulous job in an exotic location. She left her family to work around the corner, not the globe. It's going to be very awkward, right??

Diana
 

VIVIR

Andy, thank you for your kind, supportive words.

I had a pit in my stomach fearing both mother and child would not make it so while not shocked that ended up being the case, didn't make trying to capture all of the heartbreak any easier.

Diana
 

VIDA Ep. 32 Part 1

Isabela is still with Pepe who doesn’t want to see Rafa, or sit at the same table with him. Isabela thinks there must be some mistake, so Pepe tells her that they admitted it. Pepe doesn’t know what he will do…if they (Rafa and Mal) don’t leave (town), then he will leave.

Rafa reminds Alex that he was going to be supportive of him, but Alex won’t support the filth Rafa just confessed…NEVER! When Alex asks for Pepe, Rafa wonders why Alex is asking for Pepe when he (Rafa) has just expressed the pain he is in. Alex retorts that his pain does not compare to the pain that Pepe is feeling.

MAL is at her store and has a hissy fit…she wonders what she she do.

Lucia asks Emi if he needs anything else. When he asks for the other half of the rock, Lucia lies that she already threw it away…and wishes him a good trip. After Emilio leaves, Andrea wonders why Lucia lied about liking someone else. Andrea basically tells her to butt out, but that doesn’t stop Andrea who calls Diego and tells him everything went wrong…but she has a plan.

Alex asks Isabela for Pepe. After Isabela tells him that Pepe went for a walk because he needed some time alone, Alex assumes that Isabela already knows. Isabela doesn’t know what to do, so Alex tells her that she needs to calm down. He suggests that they talk a walk and discuss how they can resolve the situation.

Reni receives the picture of Emilio and Lucia kissing, but (somewhat) keeps her calm when Emi arrives and makes sure that Emi is still going on their trip. Afterwards, she darts over to Lucia’s house and slaps her for daring to kiss her boyfriend! She hurls more insults at Lucia…not knowing that Andrea is recording everything. After Reni leaves, Andrea sends off the video (to Emil?) so Emi can see what kind of person Reni is.

Rol tells Paula that he wants them to sleep in the same bed. When Paula suggests that he sleep on the couch, Rol pleads that they sleep in the same bed and promises that he won’t try anything until she is ready.

Pepe is at the dock and growls as he throws his wedding ring into the lake. Rafa approaches wanting to talk…since they’ve always told each other everything. Pepe scoffs and tells Rafa that he (Rafa) needs to swallow all the shame he is feeling and explain how he got involved with his wife when there were so many other women. When Rafa tells him that he has always been in love with Mal, Pepe thinks Rafa did everything out of jealousy…Rafa should go see a psychiatrist because there has to be something rotten in his head for him to have messed with Mal.

Emi sees that Paula is crying, so Paula tells him that she is just emotional because of the wedding…and because Emi is leaving on his trip. Paula asks him to enjoy his trip and take care of his life. She wants him to send her lots of pictures…they will always be close at heart. She then asks him to forgive her for failing him. They hug after she tells him she is very proud of him.

 

VIDA Ep. 32 Part 2

At night, Lucia asks Pepe what is going on since he is so angry and sad. Just then, Mal shows up wanting to stay in HER house, but Pepe tells her that this is no longer her house…he was going to leave it to her but no more!! When he adds that his brother should provide a house for her, Mal tells him to be careful with what he says since Lucia is there. Pepe tells Lucia to go to her room, but Lucia has had enough! She can’t stand seeing them acting well one day and then upset the next…and she already knows what is going on. She knows that Pepe has every reason to hate her mother…and wants no more lies!! Lucia admits that she saw Rafa and Mal kissing and taking off their clothes. The secret is killing her!!

Isabela and Alex discus what they should do. Isabela wonders where they went wrong and fears that their family is being torn apart.

Rafa tells Andrea that the bomb has exploded…his brother hates him, everybody hates him…and he only has her left. Rafa pitifully pleads for a hug, but Andrea can’t oblige…she hasn’t been able to forgive him.

Lucia tells Mal that this is not a rumor or gossip; she saw them! She apologizes to Pepe for not telling him, but Pepe knows that she didn’t want to hurt him. Lucia then admits to sending Pepe the message during her grandparent’s anniversary party. She later regretted it but her uncle convinced her to remain quiet…and the worst of all, is that she is sure that her uncle told Mal that she knew everything…and her mother did nothing to admit it…explain…or help her! Pepe berates Mal for not caring about hurting their daughter!

Rol finds Paula in the living room and pleads that they go up and sleep in the same bed (give...it...up, dude!!). When he reminds her that she will going for her treatment the next day, Paula points out that, when she complete the treatment, she will only live a couple of months, Rol refuses to hear that…they will live a full life together. Rol is about to kiss Paula when Diego interrupts…(and I’m sure Paula was relieved}.

Pepe tells Mal that she either leaves or he will throw her out. He will do what he has always done—be a father and mother to his children. After Mal leaves, Pepe hugs and consoles Lucia who cries that she didn’t know what to do. Pepe laments all the pain that Lucia suffered because of everything.

Alex recalls that 40 years ago, they lived the worst moments because of what happened with Lor…and they survived…and they will do it again. When Isabela reminds him that he is leaving, Alex assures that he is not leaving…his family comes first.

Diego wonders what will happen with him since Paula is now married and Emi is leaving. Paula tells him that she wants them to stay there…she has already looked into some schools. When Diego complains, she gives him a choice—she can drive him to his school in Mexico City or he can attend school there. Diego doesn’t think it’s much of a choice since he would have to get up at 4 every morning to go to his regular school.


 

VIDA Ep.32 Part 3

Pepe continues to console Lucia because of the burden she has had to carry on her own. When Lucia comments that she never wants to see her mother again, Pepe points out that Mal will always be her mother (oh, darn!). Lucia argues that Mal failed all of them. Pepe then emphasizes that the good thing now is that Lucia doesn’t have to keep secrets anymore. Lucia smiles in agreement…and adds it was difficult for everyone…including Andrea and Gracia.

Isabela is surprised that Alex is not going to stay and sleep there. Alex tells her that he is staying to resolve things as a family, not as a couple. And Pepe needs him so he will go sleep at Pepe’s house.

Lor notices that Paula is nervous. After she concedes that she is nervous about going for the treatment, Lor suggests that maybe the doctors will find a way to remove the cancer…since miracles do happen. He then talks her into practicing playing the piano…and Rol scoffs…

A nice montage of Pepe and Paula sleeping on their couches follows...

Paula can’t sleep so she does a search on the side effects of the treatment she will undergo—headaches, nausea, vomiting…seizures…

Next day—

Emi gets his things to leave on his trip. After Diego wishes him well, Emi tells him he will miss him. (Diego looks so different without his hat and glasses!)

Lucia sees Pepe stretching outside. After he explains that he slept on the sofa because he couldn’t sleep on the bed, Lucia suggests that he buy another mattress…they can raise the money by having a garage sale to sell everything that brings them bad memories.

Emi sees Paula in the kitchen…she has made him his favorite breakfast. When Emi sees that she is sad, he reminds her it is just for a year. Paula starts crying and tells Emi that when he is a father, he will understand . She asks him to keep in touch..and never forget that she loves him with all her heart. And before he leaves, she asks him never to forget to be happy and find his peace. She then asks for a last hug…which brings tears to my eyes…and ends this episode.

 

VIDA

Rgv Chick, your outstanding recap superbly reflected all the angst and anguish of the fallout from THE affair.

There was no easy way for Pepe to find out the truth and perhaps the note was the best way for the earthshattering revelation to be revealed.

Mal can stew in the bitter juices of her non repentance as far as I’m concerned.

Watching Lucia’s overt pain over knowing and suffering with Mal’s and Rafa’s long-term betrayal was brutal to watch. I think that cut Pepe to the quick and was far more painful than the affair itself. Yet he magnanimously declares Mal will always be her mother which is sadly true.

Rafa, clearly destroyed,”…pleads for a hug, Andrea can’t oblige…” What he did was reprehensible but I could not have denied him that tiny bit of comfort. Although Andrea’s acute pain is very real, her rejection is understandable.

Andrea now turns her attention to Reni. At this point, I think Andrea should just leave not well enough alone.

“Alex tells her that he is staying to resolve things as a family, not as a couple.” Really? Why doesn’t he just go and take his sanctimonious attitude with him.

Paula mourns Emi’s departure fearing she may never see her son again. “She asks him to keep in touch..and never forget that she loves him with all her heart. And before he leaves, she asks him never to forget to be happy and find his peace. She then asks for a last hug…which brings tears to my eyes…and ends this episode” was lovely and beautifully conveyed.

Diana
 

Vivir

Thank you Diana, for your beautiful recap. It was a heartbreaking episode but your way with words is evident as you bring both compassion and delicate description to the unfolding of these horrific events.

One thing I realized, Rebeca wasn’t going to the party as we assumed. The engagement dinner was at JE’s house and Rebeca went to her own house, ie. Elena’s house. Now why Elena was home and not at her daughter’s engagement dinner is a good question. Also, Rebeca is now willing to include Elena in her revenge because she feels like Elena always/still prefers Angel to her and in her mind Angel is horrible and trying to steal everything from her but Elena raised her to be that way. She’s also as predicted decided not to reveal herself and to work her plan from her old neighborhood.

Angel unknowingly describes her own brother to the cops, ironic. Misael once again shows he is evil with some part of a conscience as he seems genuinely horrified by Dulce’s death and although Monica didn’t breakdown, her eyes did tear up with unshed tears, so maybe even the wicked witch as some deeply hidden feelings?
 

vida
Thanks, rgv chick.
The child abuse in receta and Paula's illness makes these two telenovelas hard to watch. If I were Paula, I'd have looked up the secondary effects, which is a mistake as it doesn't help at all, at least it certainly wouldn't help me. I have no idea how this actress can play this kind of character. I have a feeling I'd give up in such a situation.
I feel sorry for Rafa. His family's attitude now will only confirm what he already thinks: that they preferPepe. I would have given him a hug most probably. But I do wonder why he found so hard to resist the temptation. I bet Malena made sure he found it difficult because she seems to thrive on adrenaline. I wonder what she's going to do now. Andrea might be in danger.
Alex is hard to like. And I hope they manage to decide what they are going to do with their marriage at some point.
Rolando is scary.
Lorenzo really should have offered to look after the kids because it's now lack of his support that makes Paula go through all this misery when there's no need. If he had promised to look after them, maybe even legally signed something, she would never have married Rolando. I know it's atelenovela, but this just makes him seem somewhat uncaring.
It's the first telenovela where the plot actually scares me.If she isn't going through with the treatment, what is she going to do?
 

Vida

Chickie, thank you for another great recap as the spilled secret seeks into everyone's brain.

These teens are all having to deal with the faults and problems of the grownups around them. ...unfair. Kids need to be kids .

Paulepe are both twisting and turning unable to be with each other for solace and relief. I am exhausted . I am watching a couple telenovelas and all of them are dealing with a different kind of torment\ evil. This one is about a devastating evil that touches many people in real life. Poor Paula is trying to navigate coping with her illness while people around her are plotting against her . It's a lot .

On a lighter note, Diego give up the bucket . You are a fine looking young man with a good head of hair . Get a new signature look. Get a tattoo or let those nice locks grow long . Just donate that big wardrobe of bucket hats. People won't take you seriously until you throw your hat in the......water ...trash .

Emi is enjoying being a player , but one of those girls is not a nice person . Someone is going to get hurt.
Susan


 

Vivir

Diana, thank you for another excellent recap of all the devastating shock and heartache . It must have been difficult to put into words , and you did that so well . Watching the young mother's spirit gently taking away her infant was well done .

This episode was hard to watch and hard to comment on. I cannot believe that the writers have already killed off two innocents...A young mother and her unborn child. Cruel . Now the family will be under the shadow of grief as they discover Misael's dark deeds . Grief is the price we pay for love.
Susan
 

VIVIR

Darcy, thank you for your kindness...

I initially thought Rebeca was going to the party but then realized she went to Elena's. You raise an excellent point - why on earth wasn't Elena at the celebration? Was she planning on a late arrival? It didn't appear so.

"Angel unknowingly describes her own brother to the cops" was something I hadn't understood and this could be an important (incorrect) plot point.

I was intently typing and did not realize Monica had tears in her eyes so appreciate your noting that.

Misael did seem tortured but irreparable damage has been done. He cannot escape the carnage he wrought.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Susan, thank you so much.

It seems this episode affected all of us who watched as we mourned such tender, innocent loss of life.

Thank you for noting one of my favorite quotes, delivered by Queen Elizabeth "grief is the price we pay for love". So very true.

Diana
 

VIDA

Thank so, Diana, Waterlily and Susan!

Diana, "Watching Lucia’s overt pain over knowing and suffering with Mal’s and Rafa’s long-term betrayal was brutal to watch." Yes, it was; and I completely agree with "I think that cut Pepe to the quick and was far more painful than the affair itself." It didn't surprise me that Pepe, being the wonderful father he is, put his daughter's pain before his.

Waterlily, "The child abuse in receta and Paula's illness makes these two telenovelas hard to watch." I think most would agree that the entire night of telenovelas was hard to watch. In "Vivir" we watched the family's loss of a mother and child and in "Mujer" the aftermath of a horrible accident involving four of the main characters. What a night!!

Susan, "These teens are all having to deal with the faults and problems of the grownups around them. ...unfair. Kids need to be kids." So true! Lucia finally has a huge load off her back with a loving father who is comforting her, but Andrea is still dealing with her torment and her pitiful father is asking HER for comfort. I know Rafa is dealing with a lot, but still...something is very wrong with that picture.


 

VIDA

RgvChick - thank you for your recap!

I have absolutely no sympathy nor empathy for Rafa. None at all. When he was begging Andi to hug him I was struggling between barfing and throwing my remote control at the TV screen. Fortunately, neither happened. He is just disgusting. It is one thing to fall in love with your cuñada. It's another thing to act on it and knock boots with her. Where is his self control??? He has a reptile brain. Either that or brain damage. And is slightly narcissistic but not as much as MALena. Those two deserve each other.

So Alex is disgusted with Rafa. Well, then. It should be interesting when Alex finds out Rafa is not his, but is Lorenzo's son and he's been lied to for 40 years. Or 38. Equis.

ITA, Diego looks much better without the hat ... and the glasses.

Paula saying goodbye had me almost weeping. For her, this is GOODBYE and Emi doesn't even know this.

Here's to hoping Andi sent that video, of evil witch Reni attacking Lucía, to Emi and he sees it before he gets on the airplane.

I'm still hanging on to hope for a miracle for Paula. Looks like she is getting radiation and not chemo. Radiation can make people really, really sick. Hubby knows a guy going through that right now for prostate cancer.

What if Paula ends up pregnant from her night with Pepe? Not a spoiler, just conjecture. It would surely give her even more of a reason to hope for remission.

I really just do not believe Paula will die. Nope. Nopis.
 

VIVIR

Oh my dear Diana! I thought writing the recap for VIDA was difficult, but OMGosh, "Vivir" was a tear-jerker, but you forged ahead and brought all the misery with your usual flair, tenderness and sensitivity. I bow to you, amiga.

Like Susan, I have no words to describe how I felt about this episode. The only thing I can comment on is how Misael, despite obviously being affected by the consequences of his misdeeds, was able to come up with an alibi AND a "witness" to back up his story. Weasel!!

I have no idea where that other scene with the unknown young man who was being enticed by the hussy came from. I didn't recognize him either and his name was not mentioned, but Wanda (the bleached blonde hussy) told him that Marisa (his wife) cheated on him and that Loli was not his daughter. The young man was not phased since he already knew that Loli is not his, but he loves her as his own.

Oh and Elena was on her way to the engagement party when Rebeca showed up.

Now the question is: how long will it take for Angel to see that tattoo on Santiago?

 

VIDA

Thanks, Doris!

"I have absolutely no sympathy nor empathy for Rafa. None at all. When he was begging Andi to hug him I was struggling between barfing and throwing my remote control at the TV screen." LOL Me too! Rafa was really pathetic in that scene.

And I too am hoping for a miracle cure for Paula...but what to do about Rol???

 

Vida #32

Good work, RGV Chick.

At least Pepe knows what he's dealing with. MALena is a danger to all. She needs a giggle jacket and a padded room. However, I don't know whether BPD can be treated effectively.

There is still another secret, that of Rafa's DNA. Now isn't the time for that reveal.

Andres is a smart kid and she can keep.her cool. Unlike Renata who is MALena's echo chamber.

Not sure whether either Pepe or Rafa is right. Based on 32 episodes I am certain that MALena made the first move toward Rafa.

Both of the teen girls need help. Andrea's egg donor will be played by Margarita Magana and we all know that means trouble.

Could Diego be asexual? That is virgin territory for the network.

I can't believe that Paula is letting Emiliano go to Europe now when she is likely to die before he returns. Of course if she were to tell him somebody would accuse her of manipulating him.

Rolando would look better with longer hair; he has great eyes.
 

VIDA

Thank you, Urban!

"There is still another secret, that of Rafa's DNA. Now isn't the time for that reveal." Good grief, I do hope the writers don't make that reveal anytime soon. Everyone needs a breather after the AFFAIR reveal!
 

VIDA

>>>" Andrea's egg donor will be played by Margarita Magana and we all know that means trouble."
LOL!!! So true. And ... was she wrongfully convicted?
 

Vivir de amor

Last night's episode was an absolute bummer, and made me doubt I want to continue with this novela.

Oddly enough, the one bright spot of the evening was Monica, a real distraction from the gloom and doom. She certainly did not measure up to Urban's fashion sense, but there is a flip side.

True, the top was low-cut, but there was no wardrobe malfunction, and nothing popped out to distress anybody. Also true, the skirt was really tight, but Monica managed to sit and then stand up without bursting any seams.

Good enough! More Monica and less death and grief, or I'm out of here.

Andy
 

Vida

I haven't seen Margarita Mangano in a long time . She's good . I wonder if she will be a good girl or a villain. What was the dynamic between her, Rafa, and MAL? Whom did she allegedly kill? Did MAL frame her? If so, did that all happen before or after the two year affair between MAL and Rafa start? So many questions .
Susan
 

VIVIR

Rgv Chick, thank you for your lovely words and unfailing support.

Last night was the trifecta of evil. I don't believe I've ever watched three more heartbreaking TN episodes in the same night that reeked of evil, hatred, maliciousness and sadness. I didn't sleep much last night, I was drained recalling Dulce "spiriting" her child away to the heavens.

"Wanda (the bleached blonde hussy) told him that Marisa (his wife) cheated on him and that Loli was not his daughter. The young man was not phased since he already knew that Loli is not his, but he loves her as his own". Thank you for providing context to that scene. At least I will hopefully recognize Wanda with that hair next time I see her. I don't remember what the man looks like or who Marisa or Loli are. Too many characters and secondary plot lines get overwhelming for me.

I suspect tonight will also be brutal. Thanks to you and everyone else who is contributing so much to the storyline!

Diana
 

Vivir

Thank you, Diana, for an excellent recap of a heartbreaking episode. It was hard to watch, I can’t imagine writing about it.

I’ve never felt Rebecca had enough going for her to break up Angel and JE. But Santiago will surely be blamed for the murder and that might break up our loving couple.

Rebecca was mad at her mother for leaving when Angel called, saying Angel was always the favorite. But Elena really barely knows Rebecca, and certainly doesn’t suspect she’s her daughter. So not sure why she was angry enough to change her plans about revealing who she is.

Liz
 

VIDA

Susan --- Margarita Mangano's role here is Zaida, who is Andrea's mother and currently serving a prison sentence for murder. We don't know if she was ever married to Rafa.
 

Vida #32

Zaida has been incarcerated for a while; Andrea barely knew her. this means that it predates MALena and Rafa's affair. We don't know anything else... yet.
 

Vivir

Diana, I had no idea who the blonde lady was , but I do remember seeing her at Rebecca's "I - don't-want-a surprise party ".... so here's the surprise...I am out of here. That yellow cotton candy hair made her stand out in the uncomfortable crowd. I wonder what part she will play in this tale.

P.s. So sorry that upsetting episode interfered with your sleep. I once had a student tell me that her faith believes that a baby who dies will pull his \her mother to heaven when she dies. The sad scene reminded me of that conversation. ..mother and baby united .
Susan
 

Vida

Thanks so much for the great recap RGVChick. With a baby on the way the news of the affair had to come out eventually. But I hate that it was Andrea, she’ll now feel guilt for destroying the family.

I didn’t realize Alex was just staying for the family and not for Isabella. There’s no fool like an old fool.

I’m pretty sure Paula is already regretting her marriage. She was never to keen on it anyway.

Rafa did something horrible, but it doesn’t seem like he realizes how wrong it is. He seems to think because he loves MAL that makes it ok. I was hoping Andrea’s mother would be a good, decent woman. But it sounds like that might not be the case. Which means Rafa has horrible taste in women.

Diego did look like a completely different person without the hat and glasses. I feel like he must have really low self-esteem.

Liz
 

Vivir

Diana, you took one for the team. Thanks for a sensitive recap that was so careful with our feelings.

Monica definitely noticed the room's camera, and later I think she also noticed that Misael swiped it.

Kudos to the writers for at least showing Dulce in white spiriting her child with her.
 

Vivir
It’s probably not important to the plot, but though Elena was on her way out when Rebeca arrived, I don’t think she was going to the dinner. She might have been but as Angel was arriving at JE’s she was on the phone with Elena letting her know that she planned to spend the night at JE’s because with the traffic she would never make it home that night if she tried to go home after the party. Thus, it doesn’t really make sense that Elena would be headed to JE’s and the dinner party because a) she would hit the same traffic and b) why call mom to tell her you aren’t coming home if you were expecting to see her at the dinner where you could tell her in person?
 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Liz!

"I’ve never felt Rebecca had enough going for her to break up Angel and JE. But Santiago will surely be blamed for the murder and that might break up our loving couple" could be very prophetic!

JE and Angel are sure to hit a rough patch, the wheels are already in motion. Rebeca is very aggressive (as we've seen) and I continue to be concerned she is going to strike just when JE is most vulnerable.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Thank you Niecie!

"Monica definitely noticed the room's camera, and later I think she also noticed that Misael swiped it". I appreciate your noting this because I didn't; unlike Monica who seems to notice everything! 😊 I will need to pay more attention to her when she is onscreen.

Darcy, your astute observations about exactly where Elena may or may not have been going were very interesting. I cannot think of one reason why she wouldn't be attending the party but as you noted, it doesn't appear that was her destination in view of the context of what Angel said...

Diana
 

I agree that Rafa doesn't realize how bad this was. I think he might be fascinated with MALena's sexuality but he fails to see what drives it. He is confusing hormones with the heart. He isn't emotionally mature. I have to wonder whether his perception of Pepe being the golden child is confused with the usual situation of the first-born typically taking on responsibility at a young age. Or...

Alex may have not been as attentive to him on the subconscious idea that Rafa wasn't his child. Therefore this reveal needs to wait a bit longer.

Andrea did not destroy this family. She just wanted this insane truth dealt with because the secrecy is dishonest and hypocritical. Lucia is on her side and Diego would side with them. Emiliano also needs an injection of truth because Renata is a junior version of MALena. Teo is too young yet to understand the toxicity of it all and to see that his egg donor doesn't love him. He will need everyone's protection when that comes to light.

 

VIVIR

Andy, somehow I missed your comment of this afternoon, I truly apologize.

"Last night's episode was an absolute bummer, and made me doubt I want to continue with this novela". Andy, I hope you decide to stay, but last night was so bleak I understand your reluctance to do so.

To be honest, I admit I've been ignoring Monica but according to your and Niecie's comments, see I've missed quite a bit.

I'm all for "less death and grief" but fear tonight will bring no relief.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Susan, thank you for your sweet support...

"I once had a student tell me that her faith believes that a baby who dies will pull his \her mother to heaven when she dies. The sad scene reminded me of that conversation. ..mother and baby united" was moving and very sad. Thank you for sharing...

Diana
 

vivir

Very late to the party. Last night's episode really discouraged me. I'm sure that dimwit Santiago will be caught. Bruno rather reluctantly provided an alibi for Misael. And I have a strong suspicion that Santiago being blamed for Dulce's murder will drive J.E. and Angelli apart, leaving room for nasty Frida. Sigh.

Also, did Salvador Mejia have to kill off both the mother and the child. I could do without ghosts that are supposed to comfort me with a pleasant hereafter, after a brutal death. I have nasty flashbacks of some novelas he was in charge of when I watched more Uni novelas.