Caray, Caray!

VIVIR #7 Part 1

Unfortunately, the new characters and plotlines introduced tonight along with much of the dialogue were too much for your non-Spanish speaking recapper to comprehend. I apologize. Kindly fill in my many gaps and correct what I have gotten wrong.

A heartbroken Elena sobs as she bends over the caskets of her beloved daughter and the granddaughter she would never be able to hold. “Mamita” Angel cries as she tries to comfort Elena; both women are closely embraced by JE.

Monica and Misael are standing on the stairs and she keeps repeating that now is the perfect opportunity which I interpreted to mean to take over the company (?) Don Emilio slumps sadly in his chair as Angel sits by his side. Poor Santiago stands off on his own.

Bruno calls the ranch manager and says something about Sandra (not sure if he is her father or grandfather). He later questions her but she crosses her arms and walks off.

Rebeca is at a yard sale which just happens to have a black sequined dress for sale.

Santiago is hiding, crouching as the mourners gather in the mausoleum, the two families standing on separate sides. Monica is running her mouth and Adofo chastises her reminding her she is at the funeral of her sobrina.

Rebeca is outside the mausoleum watching as the priest gives a blessing. Elena and Santiago are both suffering grievously as they place Dulce and her unnamed child’s ashes inside the vault. JE laments Dulce’s loss and Misael bows his head in pain. Outside, Santiago stands behind Rebeca.

Luciano greets Sandra and is shocked to find out Dulce has died.

JE tries to comfort his hermano Santiago.

Rebeca makes her move. “Jose Emilio I am so sorry” she bleats, walking over and embracing him bit too long. Her presence does not go unobserved. Angel asks how they know each other; at the hospital Rebeca explains. JE is my prometito Angel asserts assertively loud and clear.

Bruno gives his sympathy to Elena and Misael calls him away.

Adolfo (with Monica by his side) walks up to Elena.

Diana
 

VIVIR #7 Part 2 of 2

Misael and Bruno scheme with Rebeca in earshot. Misael sees Santiago and is furious. Santiago is afraid he is going to get arrested and Misael grabs him by the lapels. He threatens him.

Misael runs into Rebeca and remembers their encounter at the restaurant, kissing her hand. She introduces herself and gives him a hug. She will take a taxi but he won’t hear of it. It’s no trouble.

Angel cries to Bruno who is still trying to convince her he loves her. Seeing his malevolent look over her shoulder we realize that is far from the truth. Sadly, Angel seems to believe it.

Mati is very unhappy about living where they are (among other things) and lets Luciano know it in no uncertain terms.

Misael drives Rebeca home. Not her home but a lovely, upscale abode. He likes her and asks to be invited in for a drink. As Rebeca can’t possibly indulge him (as that would be trespassing) she demurs. He is clearly entranced and smiling ruefully, drives off. She lingers by the front door then hops in a cab.

Brian’s gang, wearing skeleton masks distract a parking lot guard and Lucas tries to break into a car. The alarm goes off and one of the guys takes the huge chain and locks him in.

Misael is at Cristina’s and checks where he hid the papers. Just then, JE and Angel surprise him, JE not happy to see him. They verbally spar, Misael acting like the injured party, things escalate until they almost fight, JE calling him a criminal.

Lucas manages to unlock the chain and escapes from the parking lot, later Brian greets him with a smile, cuffing him on the arm.

Misael threatens Santiago again.

Rebeca brings Doris up to speed regarding JE and Misael. I believe she wants to get to Angel through Santiago.

I think Angel wants to postpone the wedding but Don Emilio and Elena don’t want her to. Bruno pipes up but I’m not sure what he says.

Lucas and his parents are having breakfast, we learn his mother’s name is Lupe. They don’t seem to know anything about his extracurricular activities and won’t tell his parents anything. He goes to his room touches his headphones and throws them on the floor. He recoils but I’m at a loss as to why. Marisa calls Lupe.

I believe the above storyline is somehow connected with Misael ending up in the office of someone called Armando. Armando tries to shake Misael’s hand but he refuses. Armando has something to do with the fabrica, does he run it or is he a lawyer or something else? Lupe and the fabrica workers meet up with Angel. A truck tries to move forward and Angel steps in front of it. All of a sudden Armando emerges. If someone can explain what this is all about, including who exactly Marisa is, kindly do so.

Rebeca shows up at Renato’s saying she saw him at the restaurant.

Elena has a vision of coming upon Dulce’s bloody corpse. Adolfo comes up and stands there as Elena cries my daughter is dead. He tries to tell her she has Fatima and JE but she will not be consoled and asks to be left alone. Buenos noches.

Sebastian this is your home JE asserts. Thank you hermano he replies. The brothers embrace and Sebatian wheels out his suitcase and out of their lives.

Rebeca’s mother tells her she looks pretty but Rebeca is scornful in her reply. She flounces out on another mission of hate most likely.

Bruno confronts Luciano and Luciano says JE is his friend. With perfect timing, JE comes out and introduces Bruno as Fatima’s prometido. Luciano repeats “prometido” and looks shocked.

I can’t recall the final scene but don’t believe it was anything earthshattering.

Diana
 

Vivir de amor

There are so many things I don't understand, but one that keeps annoying me is Fatima with Bruno. Fatima knows, saw with her own eyes, that Bruno was forcing himself on a way too young girl. That has not changed; if she needs some consoling she should seek it elsewhere.

Ah, they've been engaged for a year now. That partly explains it, but how come she hasn't figured out he's trash after a whole year?

There are way too many characters who have not been properly developed and so we don't really know who they are, but I think that Lupe(Lucas' mother) is one of the women who are trying to run Lady Marmalade themselves. She got a call at dinner that the fabrica's owners are trying to move the machinery out, which I suppose would shut down operations. One woman argues with the manager (Armando), but I'm not sure of her name. A fairly large group of women assemble at the factory to stop the moving of the machinery, including Angel who takes out her phone to record everything and upload it to the internet, presumably to generate support for the women trying to run the cooperative.

Armando the manager comes out to disperse the women, but Angel knows him and asks what he is up to. He weasels out a bit. I think he is a flunky hired by Misael, and who wants to suck up to him. He has been repeatedly trying to shake Misael's hand and Misael just walks away.


Hoo, boy! Years ago I watched a daytime rerun of 'Mariana de la noche' and people here warned me about Salvador Mejía's quirks. I think this novela is not terribly quirky, but it sure is hard to follow without a score card to tell us who the players are.

Andy
 

VIVIR

"There are way too many characters who have not been properly developed and so we don't really know who they are..." mirrors my feelings exactly Andy.

Thank you for all of the important details you've provided!

Yes, how could Fatima even look at Bruno after seeing him physically attacking Sandra. It makes no sense. What else has she overlooked? I shiver just thinking about it.

So they were trying to take the machinery out of the fabrica. No wonder the mob assembled and why everyone was so angry. It was nice to see Angel a bit righteous and fiery.

As I noted on the previous page earlier this evening, although this has been quite depressing, hope you will decide to stay with us. You added so much tonight and I'm very appreciative.

Diana
 

Vivir

Diana, thank you for another great recap . Andy, thanks for the added details .

Diana, I am not sure , but I think you used the name " Elena" instead of " Cristina" at the beginning of the recap .

All the new characters are confusing , but it seems we have the lines of good and evil drawn ...the good JE camp vs the bad Misael camp which now includes hoods and Vengeful Refrida of the perpetual scowl and mop of hair. Gentlemen, start your engines .

The chef is definitely pining, lurking Luis from the Butterflies Aren't Free telenovela . I can never remember that long title . He has darker hair and no glasses . Is Refrida going to draw him into her revenge plans ?

Shameless Refrida grabbing JE for a sympathy hug. As if....

I, too, cannot believe that Fatima allowed scuzzy Bruno to hug and console her . yuck

Susan
 

VIDA #33 “CONSECUENCIAS” Part 1/2

This is a condensed recap, with typos, etc. ;-) and not necessarily in the order that things happened. Please correct or make any additions you like. It takes a village...

ROULA – Rolando isn’t happy that Paula spent their wedding night on the internet; he had discouraged her from doing that. Yes, faithful viewers, the honeymoon is over already and they are bickering.

PEPE hauls the mattress of adultery out of his house. I’m surprised he didn’t set it on fire. The garage sale is ON. MAL shows up and asks what’s this all about? Pepe has tossed out everything in the house that MAL and RAFA would have touched, even their wedding portrait that watched Malafa knock boots.

Pepe wants it ALL out of the house. MAL, of course, wants her clothes and all her stuff. She is in total denial that she has been evicted, LRR (lather, rinse, repeat).
Halfway thru this episode, Malena is still begging Pepe. Malena is like a tick that has to be pried off. FFWD>>>

RAFA accuses Isabela of being more worried about Pepe than him. She reads him the riot act. He tells Isa that he thought, of all the people, she would have some sympathy for his plight. Eh, no, you did your husband’s wife, and THAT is unforgiveable. Isabela is also an adulterer, but she has her standards.

EMILIANO - right before Emi goes thru TSA screening, he receives the video (from Andi) of Renata verbally attacking Lucía. He is rightfully appalled and tells Renata he is not going with her. He dumps her right there at the airport. Reni, who has already gone thru TSA, is screeching at him like a fishwife. Bless her heart. #karma

RAFA is still looking for sympathy somewhere, anywhere, from anyone, for all them being mad at him for committing the sin of adultery with his brother’s wife. (I guess he skipped Sunday School when he was a kid) So he tries Lorenzo, tells him his family has turned their backs on him and he “needs to talk to someone”, that he got his cuñada pregnant.

LORENZO, in all his worldly wisdom and experience in healthy relationships, tells Rafa that all can be healed and sorted out with time and willingness. Yes, it can all be worked out. Lorenzo also points out the silver lining of Rafa’s cloud: “you’ll get a child out of all this, a child is never a mistake”. Rafa whines “Why couldn’t you have raised me? I could use a dad like you” . (llamada de la sangre and all that)

PAULA is in the city for her first treatment. She freaks out (terrible timing, lady!) over the side effects, especially if there is no guarantee for success, her patient doctor can’t talk her down off the ledge, and she leaves to return home.
-Back home Lorenzo talks to Paula about refusing treatment. She is choosing quality over quantity to be with her kids. Lorenzo insists that miracles exist. She tells him that it would be a miracle if she and Pepe could be together. She feels lost. Lorenzo believes she will live.
 

VIDA #33 Parte 2/2

BACK AT THE GARAGE SALE – Pepe is over in the back yard, crying his eyes out. Andrea has taken a break from helping Lucía at the sale and approaches him. She wants to talk. She tells him she is the one who wrote the note and put it in his jacket and asks forgiveness.
- Pepe is a gem; he tells Andi there is NOTHING TO FORGIVE. He feels so stupid for not realizing his wife and his brother were carrying on for two years in his own house. How could he be the last person in town to find out??? (um...that's often the way it happens) Pepe thanks Andi for what she did; he truly appreciated it. She tells him that Rafa hurt all of them, including her. Hugs.

EMILIANO returns from the airport. To the garage sale. He did not pass GO and he did not collect $200. He came to see Lucía. Long story short, they made up and are now friends again but she told him she is afraid he will break her heart.

IN OTHER NEWS
-Marco flirts with Gracia
-Cute scene with Susy using sign language to facetime with Teo.

PAPA BEAR IS OUTRAGED - Alex confronts MAL, who tells him (…wait for it …) there’s an explanation for everything. He is so angry!Foaming at the mouth. He trusted her! He asks is Rafa the father of the baby and she says yes. He is so hacked off. He tells Mal that she is no longer a member of this family nor part of the family business. Furthermore, he wants her to take her business, fixtures & equipment off his land!!! Move it anywhere else, but not here.
-Mal, true to nature, says he can’t evict her and tries her best to get some sympathy from him, stating that SHE is the only victim here. (this woman is pathetic and pathological). Alex gives her until the end of the month to clear out. Mala mutters to herself that he won’t get rid of her so easily.

Both NATALIA and her fake boobs are hanging out (literally) with Rol in bed. She tells him Paula hasn’t signed her will yet and that is his homework assignment. She also advises him, as Paula’s lawyer and BFF (Best Friend ForNever), to consummate this marriage ASAP. Rolando is pensive.

FINAL SCENE – Pepe is at the lake, crying. (I’m worried he will get dehydrated by the next episode if this keeps up) Paula is also out there walking & crying there over her impending doom, and encounters him. He tells her that Rafa is the father of the baby and that is marriage is over, for good. Paula realizes that Pepe is now free (and she is not). They hug and that’s a wrap for the night.
 

Vivir

Thank you, Diana! Once again, I admire your willingness to share your recaps with us even when they add more people and confusion with no context! You already have more names down then I do if it's any comfort! :)


The 'yard sale' that Rebeca was at, was the same sale that Angel donated all those clothes to. Maybe it's considered charity because they are selling high end clothing at prices cheap enough for the average person to afford?? idk, either way that dress Rebeca bought was one of Angel's, who commented later to her mom that it looked just like a dress she donated. Rebeca also overheard about Dulce's death at the sale and realized that was her opportunity to see JE. She didn't seem to connect that this was the reason her mother ran out the day before, her mind definitely only seems to be processing what she's interested in and nothing else.


Also, Rebeca overheard a good portion of Misael's conversation with Santiago. I don't think they said the Misael killed Dulce, but she definitely heard that Santiago has a gambling problem and she heard Misael threaten to kill Santi if he talked!!! Which as we saw wasn't enough to deter her from flirting with him and taking a ride from him. I don't know if she was processing that Santiago is her brother or not, but then she doesn't care that Angel is her sister, so I'm guessing she has no warm fuzzies for Santi either.

I guess getting locked in with the would-be stolen car is a gang initiation thing. So, after Lucas got away, he passed the test? It seems silly to me, since all he had to do was lose the mask, and pretend he touched the car by accident, but of course he hid instead.

JE accused Misael of killing Dulce!!! I don't know if he thinks that Misael personally did it or if he was just somehow involved in it, but he's suspicious of the robbery story since nothing of value was taken and he thinks there's more to it. He's determined to prove Misael was involved and Misael played the 'who me? Dulce was my cousin, I loved her, how could you think I'd hurt her' card! But JE isn't buying it, he doesn't only think he's a criminal. He thinks he's the criminal responsible for his sister's death!!! Which is true of course, but I'm surprised he jumped to the right conclusion so quickly.

When Bruno piped up, he suggested to make the wedding a double wedding! So he isn't just pressuring Fatima to stay together, he's pressuring marriage. Cristina, Angel, and JE thought it was a good idea since they've been together over a year, and they don't know Bruno is a creep. So now, Fatima is going to have family encouraging her to marry. I didn't hear Fatima agree to this, but the family seems to be assuming it's a go because later when JE was telling Luciano that Bruno was Fatima's fiancé, he said they were having a double wedding in a month!

Luis recoiled because there was a spider on the game console. Maybe it was another gift from the gang? Or maybe being poor, they are just letting us know there are bugs and spiders sharing the apt where Lucas and his family live.

Rebeca had some sort of video on her phone of Renato. We didn't see it, but whatever it was, she threatened him with showing it to his bosses and posting it to social media, so it clearly painted Renato in a wonderful light! NOT Rebeca is blackmailing Renato with the video so he will stay silent, and she can go back to work at the restaurant. She also has a new plan with her devious buddy that involves her going out with Misael while her friend goes out with Santiago. I think she wants to find out exactly what is going on between the guys.



 

Vivir

Susan, Refrida! I love it!!!
 

Vivir

Thanks Diane, that was great. You must know more Spanish than you realize!

I was shocked at the double wedding announcement. I think that was Bruno’s idea. So I’m wondering what his hurry is. And surprised Fatima is going along with it. Especially after seeing him with Sandra. And he’s so obviously one of Misael’s friends. Although maybe she likes her cousin. The bad characters are so obviously bad that it surprises me that the good don’t realize it.

Rebecca has Misael take her to a house that’s not hers. What if he decides to pop in some time.

They have added way to many characters all at once. But I think I have all the main characters in my head, although not sure about all the names.

I’m wondering why Misael would pick a night when the house is full of people to have Santiago rob the house. I guess it was part of his plan. Maybe he would have shot Santiago and become the hero.

Liz
 

VIVIR

Good morning Susan and thank you!

Yes, I keep interchanging Cristina with Elena, I will try and do better :)

Loved "the good JE camp vs the bad Misael camp which now includes hoods and Vengeful Refrida of the perpetual scowl and mop of hair".

Rebeca is like a sponge, absorbing every bit of information she can for her own nefarious reasons.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Thank you so much Darcy...I so appreciate all of the pivotal details you provided.

"I don't know if she was processing that Santiago is her brother or not, but then she doesn't care that Angel is her sister, so I'm guessing she has no warm fuzzies for Santi either". Wow! All of the focus has been on Rebeca and Angel, I hadn't really considered Santiago is her brother as well. I think she will continue in her quest without giving him a single thought.

Yes, JE seemed to jump to the right conclusion Misael is involved in Darcy's death. It's heartening to see a smart, proactive galan for a change isn't it?

Fatima needs to wake up, and very quickly. What on earth is wrong with her considering marrying Bruno for even a moment?

I was so frustrated I could not figure out what happened with Lucas and the console. Thanks for explaining that. Much ado about nothing.

No flies on Rebeca already blackmailing Renato. He's a creep...

Thank you so much for explaining so many vital scenes Darcy!

Diana
 

VIVIR

Thanks for your kind words Liz!

"Rebecca has Misael take her to a house that’s not hers. What if he decides to pop in some time" is a distinct possibility!

Bruno is desperately trying to railroad Fatima into marriage. His facial expressions behind her back indicate he is exasperated with her and doesn't care a whit. The only person who can decide her own fate is Fatima who strangely and inexplicably is still with him.

Here's hoping the writers will give us a chance to absorb all the new characters they've thrown at us...

Diana
 

Vida

Thanks so much Doris, I enjoyed your recap. Talk about star crossed lovers, Pepe is now free and Paula is not. Is there some legal reason Nat is telling Rol to consummate the marriage. All I can think of is Nat is afraid Paula will get an annulment. Otherwise, they are married and if she dies and they haven’t slept together he still gets all. Nat is so confident Rol will split it with her. I wouldn’t count on it.

Rafa acts like he deserves sympathy because he is hurting. He apparently doesn’t realize you can’t get much lower than sleeping with your brother’s wife.
And MAL is even worse. Why would she think this family would still want her around. They both are clueless as to how much they have hurt the family.

I loved your dehydrated remark, Doris. I am wondering why he is crying so much. He knew his marriage was over from the beginning of the show. He was only going back for the children. I know he’s hurt that his brother betrayed him, but be angry with him.

MAL is persistent. I don’t see her going on her own. I think she will continue to pester and beg Pepe. I guess she never had any feelings for Rafa. But who will get the baby. I don’t see MAL wanting it. Lorenzo is not the one to give advice. All telenovelas say a baby is a blessing etc. Which is true in the right circumstances. And even in bad circumstances it can be a bundle of joy. But I just see Isabella having to raise this baby.

Liz


 

Vivir #8

Good stuff, Diana.

Rich people's funerals always bring out the vultures. Monica and her hellspawn are running true to form. She is delusional enough to think Misael should run the company, but into the ground?

A miniskirt to a funeral, Rebecca? Well... she now knows just enough tp cause some major damage. She will probably boink Misael within the next three episodes. Whether she meets him in a neutral zone or he finds out she doesn't live where he dropped her off will not matter. He just might get off on her evil.

The long brown dress with the side slit is more like it, but Rebecca still treats her parents like crap. And the clunky shoes with such a dress? Good grief!

I have no pity for Santiagp. He's an idiot. There should also be a special punishment for stealing from family when they're struggling.

Don't even get me started on Bruno.
 

VIDA

Doris, your recap was sensational. It was so well organized and flowed seamlessly.

Too many gems to list them all but “Pepe is at the lake, crying. (I’m worried he will get dehydrated by the next episode if this keeps up)” was my hands down favorite.

The aftermath continues to be painful and drawn out. “PEPE hauls the mattress of adultery out of his house. I’m surprised he didn’t set it on fire”. Me too! Malena continues to dig in, tough and obstinate despite the (rightful) vitriol directed at her from both Pepe and Alex (whom I hope feels like the fool that he is).

I can’t believe Paula ended up refusing treatment. Perhaps Pepe’s revelation will finally spur her into doing it. Lorenzo was right in “that miracles exist” but you need to look for them and pray for them.
At least Emi has returned, his mind hopefully cleansed of any thought of staying with Reni “screaming like a fishwife” (love it).

Now that Pepe’s world has imploded, will that FINALLY translate to Paula telling Pepe the truth about her health?? Fingers crossed.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Thanks for your kind words Urban.

"Monica and her hellspawn are running true to form" was perfect and had me nodding in vigorous agreement.

You are so right in that Rebeca "now knows just enough to cause some major damage". It's astonishing how much she has gleaned from hiding in the shadows. I'm now thinking she is going to get up to speed very quickly.

Why is it that neither Elena or Angel realize Santiago is in very serious trouble? He is just pathetic.

Thank you for mentioning Rebeca's clunky, Herman Munster shoes. Most if not all of her fashion choices have gone immediately to the "what not to wear" pile.

Diana
 

Vida

Doris, thank you for that snarky recap. You were on fire ...." Mattress of adultery " was inspired . And that garage sale of pain ,sadness, and betrayal .. .wow.

I must say that this show is bringing me down with Pepe's endless tears and Paula in an abyss of depression and not getting treatment .

My favorite scene was Pepe with his hood up hanging onto the tree swing. uff Gee, I wonder who thought up that scene of despair.

I am watching 3 novelas current!y , and this sad show is the one I am least invested in because it bums me out the most . How many different ways can Pepe show us that he is .....S.A.D. Big girls don't cry.
Susan
 

Vida,

P.s. Whatever happened to strong, silent galans stoically coping with the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune?
Susan
 

Vida #33

Good work, Doris.

I would love for Paula to not consummate the marriage to Rolando. Nat and her boobs are trying to make him do this but I want to see failure here, especially as it appears that this would make a legal difference when Paula dies.

How old is Emiliano? If he is 18 he should be prepared to manage the inheritance with help from Lorenzo. Alas, he's not been seeing the red flags Diego sees. Good for Andrea for sending him the video of the screaming meemee who deserved to be left at the airport.

Pepe needs to stop crying. MALena is a narcissist and a slut. Alex finally made himself useful in his dealings with her.

Let's get real, folks: "This is modern times; there ain't supposed to be miracles no more!"

Marcos creeps me out. I wish he would disappear.
 

Vivir

Diana, you are a champ. Not matter what sudden people the story throw out, you've got it.

If I got it right, in in the study when Misael accused JE of being paranoid for suspecting his own cousin, JE shot back something like "I'm going to stay paranoid until I find out who killed my sister." I hope JE sticks to this.

I'm still trying to figure out what Bruno's job is. I was surprised to see him blowing off the ranch hand's phone call about him doing his work. I can't wait until the ranch hand finds out Bruno tried to sexually assault his daughter. Hopefully the dad won't blank out as Fatima has done.

So the videogamer/new gang recruit has nice parents and is terrified of big spiders. Hmmmm.

 

VIVIR

Niecie, thank you so much for your (greatly appreciated) vote of confidence.

"If I got it right, in in the study when Misael accused JE of being paranoid for suspecting his own cousin, JE shot back something like "I'm going to stay paranoid until I find out who killed my sister." So pivotal to the plot line Niecie, thank you so much for sharing.

Did we actually SEE the spider?? I was straining to look as hard as I could but I didn't see anything which is why I was so puzzled about the scene. Was there no gigantic tarantula ready to fill in?? 😊

Diana
 

VIDA

Thanks everyone for your comments. The writers have the plot moving along, so tonight's episode might be interesting.

Liz - AFAIK, an annulment can be obtained if the marriage has not been consummated. That's why Nat is pushing Rol to get it done soon.

Diana - I'm with you in hoping Paula will finally(!!!) be honest with Pepe about her health.

Urban - Yes, ITA Alex finally did something right about MALena. He knows he was played for a fool by her.
 

VIDA

Thank you, Doris! Thoroughly enjoyed the recap and all the sides, great job!

I had to laugh at the dehydrating Pepe. And I agree with others that the crying is too much. GET. OVER. IT! Mal is not worth it.

I am really admiring Andrea and Lucia. They are acting more grown up than the grownups.

 

VIVIR

Another grand slam, Diana, thank you! You’re my hero(ine) :-)

Once again, I don’t have much to add…and I’m running short on time. I may be back later.
 

VIVIR

Thank you for your supportive words Rgv Chick!

More drama tonight, I'm sure!!

Diana
 

Vivir de amor

Diana, I once again thank you for your sterling recaps, this one and all of them.

This episode was difficult for me to follow, lots of things I didn't notice, Spanish I didn't understand. Your recap, and the additions others provided, made all the difference.

So it was a spider on Lucas' console! Thanks, Darcy! I thought the console gave him a shock, or he was afaid it would from past experience. When it started falling apart I thought that explanation actually made sense. But better the spider, and not being able to afford to replace the console tells us something about the family's economic problems and perhaps why Lady Marmalade is so important.

I certainly hope Fatima wises up about Bruno. We have seen that the guy for her is actually Luciano. If we can see it, why can't she? :-)

Seriously, I hope she doesn't marry Bruno and bring more misery into this novela.

Diana, thanks again, and I second your "Here's hoping the writers will give us a chance to absorb all the new characters they've thrown at us..."

Andy
 

VIVIR

Andy, thank you for once again buoying my spirits. I appreciate your very gracious remarks.

Last night was very tough for me and it was only due to the kindness of all of you who generously commented that things make more sense today.

Was the spider wearing an invisible insect suit? Inquiring minds want to know. :)

How Fatima can even look at Bruno is beyond me. I'm hoping Luciano will sweep her off her feet. That said, he better do it quickly!

I'm fervently hoping the writers are going to narrow their scope tonight and stick with the main characters, not the "thousands" of extras...

Diana
 

Vivir,

Diana, the video game controller was sitting on top the console and the spider was under the controller and on the console. The second he picked up the controller he saw the spider. I saw it too but he freaked out so fast and dropped the console that it would have been easy to miss seeing it, it was only visible for a second.
 

VIVIR

Thanks for explaining Darcy.

:)

Diana
 

VIVIR #8 Part 1

JE continues to vent to a sympathetic Luciano.

Santiago greets Elena who graces him with a warm hug, telling him she loves him.

Luciano does double comfort duty, this time with Fatima as he holds her tightly in his arms.

Rebeca is walking into Restaurant Del Olmo as her father Antonio watches her, concern written all over his face.

Another contentious dinner is taking place with arguments and ripples of discontent very much evident. Cristina says the only thing that is important is the happiness of my children. Talk inevitably turns to Dulce. Did the police find the pistol Don Emiliano asks? No JE answers. Monica gets in a snit, mouthing off and stalking away. Don Emilio looks disheartened and perplexed and laments all the family problems. Dulce, JE and Fatima comfort him.

Monica runs into Angel outside and I think she upbraids her for being insensitive and for forging ahead with her wedding plans.

Rebeca sweet talks Elena and asks for another chance, taking her hand. Elena responds warmly.

Angel and JE have a few sweet kisses, he asks her to bestow a kiss on his cheek, his forehead, and his nose. He receives a call. Later, Angel tries to comfort a distraught Fatima.

Mati is playing video games but no Lucas. He picks up his broken equipment and throws it in frustration.

Romina finally deigns to call Mati and Javier. Poor Mati begs her mother to return. Romina is at a desk sorting through files and barely seems to be paying attention to the conversation. Mati beams ear to ear even hearing mother’s voice for a few quick seconds. She relates the call to Luciano as she happily cooks breakfast.

Romina runs after Misael and Bruno with some documents. Misael seems to treat her with a fair degree of contempt.

Armondo stands in front of the angry Lady Marmalade contingent when Bruno and Misael walk up and ask what the problem is. They want him to handle it. All of a sudden Adolfo and Angel show up, Adolfo asking Misael what he is doing there. Adolfo upbraids Misael as his son walks through the riled-up crowd waving his hand disrespectfully. However, Armando seems to be giving in…

I believe Rebeca has cooked up a plan to unmask Santiago. Santiago shows up at a gambling club where Doris greets him with a free bottle of wine. She stands behind him as he belts down the drinks.

Luciano is unloading a truck and harkens back to the memory of Fatima hugging him. Meanwhile, Fatima is being lectured to by Bruno exhibiting his usual petulance and annoyance.

Fatima and Bruno pull up and Sandra’s father is there in front of a carriage full of freshly cut, beautiful flowers. Fatima immediately thinks Bruno arranged it but it is obvious from his ticked expression, that is not the case.

Diana
 

VIVIR #8 Part 2 of 2

Misael shows up at the restaurant but it isn’t the food that’s drawn him in. He and Rebeca flirt.

The policewoman has returned to the house and talks with JE and Don Emiliano.

Misael and Rebeca arrive at the gambling club, Rebeca seemingly surprised to point out that oh my, Santiago is there. Nostrils flaring, Misael walks over and confronts him with Rebeca listening around the corner. When Misael starts in on Santiago, he sets the record straight by the explosive YOU are the assassin! I think Misael tells him that the police have a good description of him. Santiago stutters and mutters and Misael gives him a large wad of cash. Misael gets a text but I could not decipher what it said. Misael hurries out and Doris asks her what happened!

Armando, Adolfo and Angel go back and forth. Armando finally gives into their demands and the women jump and cheer.

Angel sees a newlywed couple in the next car and envisions she and JE in their place. She fingers her ring lovingly.. Her reverie is interrupted by an anonymous call telling her Santiago is in a casino!

Don Emilio teases JE about the upcoming wedding, bestowing some fatherly advice.

Angel rushes to the casino to pay Santiago’s debt as Rebeca and Doris watch. She asks what is going on!! I think he tried to tell her this is the first time this has happened. LIAR!

Underneath a huge, luminous silvery moon, Fatima and Bruno have an argument. As Luciano watches sadly from the ground, Bruno kisses her neck and tells her he loves her. He walks away before she reacts impassively, pushes Bruno away and actually tells him to leave.

Antonio confronts Rebeca and tells her he wants to speak with her alone, at which time Doris beats a hasty retreat. I believe he asks if she is with her blood family. Rebeca rejects him and reiterates that Alma is not her mother.

Fatima is enchanted with all of the flowers as she talks with Sandy’s father (do we know his name?). Later, Bruno strolls by the display, clearly displeased.

Luciano and Angel (with a sweet red flower behind her ear) take a stroll. He hopes he hasn’t caused any problems with her novio.

Looks like someone is leaving on a jet plane. Santiago and Misael are at the airport where Misael hands him a cell, talks about the murder weapon and warns him not to do anything stupid. Angel calls Misael as he is leaving but he ignores the call.

Monica confronts JE and Cristina about the presidency and threatens that no one will take what belongs to her.

Diana
 

Vivir

Thanks Diana, that was a good read. I’m impressed with all the names you’ve mastered!

Monica is truly awful. Do they do something with her lipstick to make her mouth an ugly sneer all the time? I need to look her up and see what she really looks like. She keeps accusing Angel of being with JE for the money. I can’t wait till she meets Rebecca. Although they’re probably so alike that they’ll hit it off. Rebeca now knows everything that’s going on. I’m hoping her dad will discover what she’s up to and ruin her plans.

I don’t think Angel is going to see the money she gave to Santiago. That will put their restaurant in jeopardy. At first I felt sorry for Santiago but now I’ve put him right along side Misael on the character chart.

I’m hoping Fatima is now done with Bruno. I’m not sure why she wasn’t done with him when he was all over the young girl.

Liz
 

Vivir

More gold from Diana!! Thank you amiga!!!

You were exactly right about Monica. She's in a snit because she thinks that JE and Angel should postpone/cancel their wedding and respect their 'mourning'. I am wondering why she cares so much. I mean she's totally the uppity, snobby type that would look down on anyone who seems 'less than' and assume they were a gold digger, but she isn't the type to actually give a damn about her nephew, so I'm surprised she even knows who he's marrying, much less cares. If it was her son, I could definitely see the attitude, but it seems too much for JE's girl. So I am wondering if there's some sort of beef between Monica and Elena that we haven't learned about yet and she hates Angel because of that.

The flowers for Fatima were a gift from the hacienda, ie. Luciano, and that's why Bruno doesn't like them and Fatima clearly did. Also, when talking out loud to himself said about Fatima: 'I'm going to have to love you in silence because my kids come first' no doubt thinking about how his daughter still thinks mommy and daddy will get back together. He used the word 'amar' and not 'querer' when thinking it too, so he's already thinking he's in love with Fatima, that was fast!!! Btw, I don't like this whole letting the kids believe there's hope for mom and dad storyline. Tell them the truth!!! Mom left, left behind her wedding ring and asked for a divorce. Will it hurt? Yes! Is it harsh, yes! It's also the truth and they are going to find out sooner or later, tell them now and don't let them live with false hope!!! I hate Romina! She actually told her daughter that she needed time to focus on her career, and she just lapped it up like that's reasonable! No one needs to abandon their children in order to have a career!


The text Misael got was from Refrida (thanks Susan), she texted him as if she left. I don't remember exactly word for word what it said, but it was something along the lines of: 'Take care of what you need to take care of and I'll see you later'. Misael was upset because his date was over, but as we saw Refrida didn't actually leave she just got rid of Misael so she could set up Santiago!

 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Liz!

"Monica is truly awful. Do they do something with her lipstick to make her mouth an ugly sneer all the time?" had me smiling away. She puckers quite a bit, a very sour one at that.

Yes, it will be very interesting when Rebeca and Monica start talking. Two peas in a pod perhaps? :)

And you're right of course about the money Angel handed over. She might as well as flushed it down the drain.

Santiago's physical appearance and frantic, erratic movements is an obvious cry for help. Why no one has realized the gravity of his situation is confounding.

Diana
 

VIVIR

Such kind words Darcy. Gracias!

I so appreciate all the wonderful dialogue and information you provided! Everything you noted was excellent and greatly appreciated.

I don't know what might be behind Monica's hatred of Angel. I am thinking there is a backstory between Adolfo and Cristina and Monica is keenly aware he still harbors feelings for her.

Thank you for translating so much dialogue especially "'I'm going to have to love you in silence because my kids come first' no doubt thinking about how his daughter still thinks mommy and daddy will get back together. He used the word 'amar' and not 'querer' when thinking it too, so he's already thinking he's in love with Fatima, that was fast!!!" I agree that children should never be given false hope. I also believe in telling children the truth. Most are wise beyond their years and would prefer painful truth to pitiful lies.

Women have been doing "it all" since time began. Yet still the outright lie that it's not possible lingers...You can do it and have it all too, with hard work and support. But Romina seems utterly selfish, always putting herself and her needs and wants before others, especially her children. Also, news flash, her job ain't all that and those she works for, especially Misael regard her with disdain. Was it worth leaving her children for? Nopis I say firmly.

Rebeca is playing Misael like a fiddle. What a dope he is.

Diana
 

Vivir

Super job, Diana. "Looks like someone is leaving on a jet plane" made me smile. Loved your nod to Peter, Paul and Mary's "I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane."

Refrida [thanks, Susan!] is one heartless B not to give a damn about her baby brother. Santiago is feet away from her and she doesn't even try to connect with him as Rebecca. He's a tortured mess. I hate that Santiago gave his phone to Misael and now he'll have any messages that Angel sends to Santiago.

Refrida's adopted dad threatened to rat her out for working at Del Olmo restaurant but of course she points out he'd be the one sunk, for keeping a stolen child.
 

VIVIR

Niecie, thanks so much.

I was expecting you to catch my PP&M reference and of course you did! Such a lovely, lilting melody.

"Tortured mess" describes Santiago perfectly.

As always you caught a very important nugget I did not. "Refrida's adopted dad threatened to rat her out for working at Del Olmo restaurant but of course she points out he'd be the one sunk, for keeping a stolen child". As much as I hate she is right, I have to give her a begrudging Touché.

Diana
 

VIDA

Busy day. The recap will be up later…tonight.
 

Vivir

Diana , thank you so much for another excellent recap that didn't miss a beat . I finally got to enjoy your great recap after spending the entire morning making a big pot of chicken corn chowder . It is a gloomy , rainy day here.

Refrida is always lurking behind A wall.The actor playing her father was in a show years ago with Susana Gonzalez . He wore sunglasses and was quite a good dancer , so we called him Dances with Sunglasses ! I can't remember the name of the show .

Onward we go. Susan
 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Susan!

Chicken corn chowder sounds delicious! It is cold, damp and rainy here as well.

"Refrida" (love) is always lurking behind a wall" is so true! She is a perpetual eavesdropper.

Ahhh, yes, Amores Verdaderos with my telenovio Eduardo Yanez and Erika Buenfil (one of my favorite TNs). Susana and Francisco Gattorno "Salsero" were a great couple and also danced beautifully together.

Diana
 

Vivir de amor

Diana, you Caray workaholic, I thank you for yet another great recap and gathering comments to supplement it.

I am cheating a bit perhaps, but I read the recap first and will soon watch the recorded episode. Last night a good friend wanted to hang out and talk about a few things, and I obliged him. Good friends don't grow on trees :-)

With all the help on this page I may just have a good idea what this episode is all about. Well, hopefully.

Andy
 

VIVIR

Andy, thank you.

It takes a village, (very much so in my case) and am so appreciative of everyone's astute and helpful comments.

Friends first, always...

I am sure you will have something wise and wonderful to share with us; you always do. Enjoy!

Diana
 

VIDA Ep. 34 Part 1 (I partially proofread so 'scuse the typos. Some scenes are combined)

Paula is still with Pepe; she can’t believe what he is telling her. Pepe grits his teeth as he tell her that if he had known in time, he would have made different decisions, he wouldn’t have allowed her to get married. He gave up his love for her, and all for a worst betrayal. After Paula reminds him that he tide what he thought was right, just as she did, Pepe asks why she is there. Paula explains that she has her own problems and needed some peace and silence. But it seems that life insists that they find each other. Pepe offers to leave but Paula wants to continue talking. Pepe reminds her that she is a married woman; he will, however, lend her his secret boulder so she can stay there. As he leaves, Pepe missteps and hurts his knee. Paula insists on helping him.

Nat is still in bed with her fake twins in (almost) full display when Lor calls. She assures him that everything is set and she will be taking the check to the restaurant. When she asks if he trusts her, Lor remains quiet and then tells her to come over so they can have a talk. Rol approaches and Nat tells him that he needs to transfer more money to her…since he should be behind bars and keeping a secret like his costs money…and having a woman like her is not cheap.

Marcos is persistent in asking Gracia out despite’s her numerous “no’s”

Rol/s true colors come out when Susy asks him to take her to play with Teo. But then he apologizes with the excuse that he just lost a good amount of money. Susy runs to Rosa so she can take her to Teo’s house but Rol comes and tells her that she is not going…he is her stepfather and she needs to obey him!

Rafa goes to talk to MAL who snarls at him about losing her family because of him.land now she has to look for another place to live. Rafa tells her that he will rent a house for her where she can stay until the baby is born. After the baby is born, he will keep it and MAL can go do whatever she wants. Mal is not happy...

Pepe’s knee hurts mucho and he can barely walk so Paula insists on taking him to get it checked. As they talk, someone is taking pictures (I’m sure you can guess who!).

MAL wonders if Rafa is threatening to take her baby. Rafa explains that he is doing her a favor. MAL then pours out the honey and asks Rafa not to leave her alone and not to let his father run her out of her business. When Rafa tells her that he is no longer interested in her, MAL gets closer trying to seduce him and asks if he GM doesn’t love her anymore. Rafa replies that he will live her to the end of his days…that is his damnation. The more he gets to know her, the more he regrets having fallen in love with her. Suddenly, MAL gets a cramp.

Emi is still with Lucia sharing that he was thinking of his father…and everything he would like to tell him if he were there. After he tells her what he would tell his father, Lucia thanks him for sharing. He then shows her what he turned in for his project. When Lucia sees Reni in the video, Emilio explains that he used Reni as the model for his project.

MAL continues to experience cramps. She explains that she is supposed to be getting a lot of rest…and she has been doing the opposite.

Marcos sneaks up on Isabela and scares the daylights out of her. He needs a favor—that she reserve the best table for him. Isabela thinks he has a date with La China, but no, it’s a woman who is very special and the woman who will be the mother of his children (quite delusional isn't he?).

Alex approaches and asks Isabela for Rafa and Pepe. Isabela hasn’t seen them and has been trying to think of a solution for the situation but she can’t think of anything. As they talk, (G)Nat approaches and gives them the money that Lor is returning. Alex doesn’t want to get the money, but Isabela insists that they accept it and takes it from Gnat.

 

VIDA Ep 34 Part 2

Diego mocks Rol since there won’t be a honeymoon. When Rol tells him that they are going to reschedule it, Diego knows he is lying. Diego assumes that his mother figured out that she was wrong in marrying Rol…and went to look for Pepe. Rol smirks that Diego is wrong, but Diego scoffs and shows him the picture of Paula and Pepe.

Paula and Pepe arrive at the hospital and Pepe recalls that they have lived a similar moment. Paula remembers too, but it was she who needed the help. Just then, Malafa arrive.

Diego explains that he took the picture when he was out taking pictures of the land when he saw his mother and realized that she didn’t go to their honeymoon. Rol calls Paula despite Diego’s protests but she doesn’t answer.

Pepe explains what happened to him; and Rafa explains why he brought Mal to the hospital. Pepe wants to leave, but Paula insists that they go inside to have the doctor check his knee. Once inside, Pepe scowls as he sees Rafa and Mal signing in.

Rol asks Diego to take him to where Paula is, but Diego refuses. When Rol hisses that he is getting tired of Diego’s attitude and adds that he has always been by their side after they lost their father, Diego retorts that no one asked him to do that, but Rol counters that German asked him to take care of the family if something were to happen to him. Diego thinks that his father’s death was convenient for Rol since he is obsessed with Paula. Rol questions what Diego thinks Pepe can offer them. Diego only knows that Pepe makes his mother smile and when she is with Rol she is depressed. He thinks Rol pressures his mother into marrying him. When he asks what Rol is hiding, Rol denies hiding anything…then asks Diego if it isn’t he who is keeping a secret…his mother would be very disappointed to know what Renata suspects. (To my surprise) Diego doesn’t cringe when Rol puts his hands on his shoulders and tells him that he wants to be a father to Diego…and he can find therapy for Diego. Diego snaps that he is not sick! Rol tells him to think about it…and adds that his father would be grateful. Rol then tells (warns) Diego to stop causing problems…

To Rafa’s surprise, Mal wants him to stay there and introduces him as the baby’s father.

In the lobby, Paula asks Pepe how he is…how is his heart. Pepe replied that it hurts…he can’t stop thinking that this will be his life from now on—he and his brother apart and looking at each other from a distance…sharing space but not speaking to each other as of they didn’t know each other.

Mal feigns happiness at hearing “their” baby’s heartbeat.

Emi thinks his family will be happy to see him…not getting on the plane is the best thing that could happen. He hesitates to leave, but Lucia giddily pushes him out.

Gnat tells Lor that she has given the Castillo the check…and thinks she has earned a cup of wine, but Lor points out that she was just doing her job…and corrects the serious mistake she made. He then tells her that he will be working from home…and wants he to send him information on any future (company) endeavors…he doesn’t trust her anymore (woohooo!)and will make decisions based on the information he receives.

 

VIDA Ep. 34 Part 3

Emi arrives home and everyone is happy to see him. When he asks Suzy why she didn’t go to play with Teo, she replies that her godfather didn’t let her. Rol explains that all he does is in their best interest. When Lor intervenes, Rol asks him not to go against him in front of the children. Lor loses his appetite.

At the restaurant, Marcos gets down on one knee and asks Gracia to dance.

Isabela is all smiles when she goes to see Lor and thank him for returning the money.

Rafa takes Mal to the hotel room he has rented for her. She continues spewing honey as she tells Rafa how exciting it was to hear the baby’s heartbeat…and made her think…can they resume their relationship…and form their own family? (My stomach is turning…get me a puke bag!)

Lor asks Isabela to please let Rafa know that he is his father…because it could be that Rafa will be his only child in a few months. He adds that he is going through the most difficult time of his life: Paula is very ill, she has a brain tumor and doesn’t have much time to live.

Paula helps Pepe inside his home. She insists on staying to help him get comfortable. As she dotes on him, she loses her balance and lands on top of him. Inches apart, they look longingly at each other; Pepe whispers that this is not right. Paula thinks things are complicated because when she is with him, everything is magical…they resist the magnetism of their lips…so we don’t get a kiss!!! ARGGH! …and there it ends.
 

Vivir de amor

Wow! Nobody has much privacy in a telenovela; it seems that someone is always eavesdropping. Rebeca and Doris were actually funny, leaning out from behind a wall in unison to listen to Angel and Santiago and then drawing back in together so as not to be seen.

Poor Luciano heard things he didn't want to hear between Fatima and Bruno. Too bad he doesn't actually know they are not getting along.

Santiago is really in a jam and Misael is not a great help. They argued about who actually killed Dulce. Santiago tells Misael that he, Misael, killed her (and Rebeca heard this). He's also upset that Angel saw him leaving the scene of the crime, but Misael tells him that Angel did not "expose" him or "rat him out" (a new word for me, "delatar"). It was Misael with the gun, so I suppose it was he who shot Dulce, even if unintentionally.

This has me wondering. I don't know just what Santiago knows. Angel saw him that night, but his face was covered. All she really noted was the tattoo on the back of his neck. Does he know that? Do they think Angel knows more, or am I making too much of a single word?

I got a big kick out of Luciano's kids watching a movie while a couple kissed onscreen. Young Javier is "Ewwww!" watching the couple kiss while the few years older Mati is perfectly fine with it, and starts thinking about Lucas.
This was very, very cute and made me laugh, a nice escape from the doom and gloom.

Antonio confronted Rebeca and asked why she returned. To their poor home? I suppose. Does he think that Rebeca has told Elena who she really is? Rebeca at one point did call him "Papa". I don't know what to make of that either. But she did say she planned to marry soon.

During Fatima and Bruno's little argument we saw a huge, detailed moon. I suppose Salvador Mejia just couldn't help himself.

Poor Angel is in a tough spot. The restaurant has been named the 'restaurant of the year'. But she had to help out Santiago pay a gambling debt and now the next payment on the loan for the restaurant is due. Elena said it would hurt so much to lose the restaurant left to them by her late husband. I think Angel does not have the money. If she has to ask JE for help, that might cause some friction, especially as Monica keeps calling her a gold digger and wants to keep her out of things and let her son assume a more prominent position in the family business.

Angel called Santiago (but Misael has his phone) to make sure he would deposit the amount of the loan payment in the bank. Judging by Misael's evil smirk, I'd say he doesn't plan to. Trouble for Angel, and maybe JE.

Andy
 

VIDA

Rgv Chick,

You captured tonight’s sad events perfectly. You gave clarity to much that I missed.

“(G)Nat” and “Malafa” had me smiling away.

There is a magnetic force bringing Paula and Pepe together that try as they might, they cannot escape. Fate conspires once again to strengthen their bond by Paula coming to Pepe’s rescue. “Paula thinks things are complicated because when she is with him, everything is magical…they resist the magnetism of their lips…so we don’t get a kiss!!!” was so frustrating! Will they ever be able to alter their tragic timing?

“Rafa replies that he will love her to the end of his days…that is his damnation. The more he gets to know her, the more he regrets having fallen in love with her”. And perhaps in that one moment, he did mean it. But now, after her rejection by Pepe, MALena finally realizes she is out of options. Watching her play up to Rafa, “she continues spewing honey” saying that they could make their own family was sickening.

Rol took such pains to try and ingratiate himself with Paula’s children, with some success, save Diego. And then he gets all authoritarian and alienates Susi, the one person who truly cared about him. What a wretched idiot.

At least Lor is wise to Gnat…and I’m glad he confided in Isa. Perhaps this might be the catalyst to bring these two together which I feel is inevitable…

Diana
 

VIVIR

Andy, you didn't have one wise and wonderful thing to add, you had a slew of perceptive comments! All were such a huge help.

"Misael tells him that Angel did not "expose" him or "rat him out" (a new word for me, "delatar")" was great as I love vocabulary.

Very interesting question as to exactly what Angel did or did not notice when she saw hooded Santiago that night. She saw the tattoo and did have a questionning look but I am unsure if she suspected anything else or if it was just shock/surprise. Thinking back, Santiago didn't seem to be running away, he more or less just walked away. I also don't think Santiago realized she saw the tattoo...

I did hear Rebeca calling Antonio "papa" which was a shock but hadn't understood what else they said so appreciate your adding that.

"Angel called Santiago (but Misael has his phone) to make sure he would deposit the amount of the loan payment in the bank. Judging by Misael's evil smirk, I'd say he doesn't plan to". Another very important development!

Andy, thank you so, so much.

Diana
 

vida
Thanks, rgv chick.
I can't believe how stupid Rolando is. Susie is no Samara. He couldn't make her keep quiet, so why become so authoritarian all of a sudden? He seems unable to pretend convincingly, though. If Diego falls for his lies, I'll be very upset and disappointed. There's no way Paula would judge him for being gay.
Lorenzo'sdesire to tell the truth to Rafa because Paula is ill I can understand. But it does bother me because it appears he wants to compensate that lack of closeness he had with Paula and he wants to do it through another child. I was even wondering if he wasn't doing this because Rafa is a man.
Rafa will surely fall for Malena's nonsense. Even the fact he now knows what she is like is of no use.
I wonder if Natalia would kill off Lorenzo to get him out of the way. But didn't he sign some kind of document that gave her complete power over any decisions made in the company? It might be a bit too late for Lorenzo to wake-up now. I bet it makes her happy knowing Paula hasn't slept with Rolando, though. She can 'let' him sleep with her on her own terms and do it just because it's a means to an end.
Paula's sadness is hard to watch. What kind of miracle are they going to come up with?
 

VIDA

Thank you for your recap, RgvChick!

MAL buttering up Rafa because she needs someone to live off was to be expected. It's so easy to see the wheels turning in her head.

Rolando is now showing his true colors to the kids, just as we all knew would happen.

It was interesting that Susy went to Rosa after Rol told her "no," playing one adult off the other, just like a typical kid.

Diego is playing with fire when it comes to Rolando. It wouldn't be a surprise if Rol does physical harm to him at some point.

And Nat better watch herself. My spidey-sense tells me Rol might kill her when he tires of her threats.

Now that Isabela knows about Paula's cancer, will this be how Pepe finally learns the truth?
 

VIDA

Thank you, Diana, Waterlily and Doris!

Diana, that last scene was SO frustrating! I felt like screaming "just kiss now!" But it did remind me of two magnets with opposite poles...which is somewhat symbolic of these two who have a plethora of very high hurdles to jump before they can be together without any resistance.

Waterlily, "If Diego falls for his (Rol) lies, I'll be very upset and disappointed. There's no way Paula would judge him for being gay" ITA agree!! and IIRC, Emi already guessed and Diego confirmed to him that he is gay. Diego needs to recall that and also realize that Paula would accept and love him no matter what.

Doris, "Now that Isabela knows about Paula's cancer, will this be how Pepe finally learns the truth?" I thought of the same question; I do hope Isabela shares that with Pepe, but I bet the writers are going to prolong it (uphhh!)

 

VIVIR

Diana, my recapping heroine, thank you! I am still befuddled as how you can grasp so much just by relying on the context of what you see. Bravo!!

After reading the comments, I see that there are questions about why Monica despises Angel. There are many valid theories, but I think Monica simply detests Angel because Monica doesn't want share the wealth with any outsiders who are not at her (financial) status. She knows that Elena's restaurant is struggling and that is her basis for accusing Angel of being a golddigger. She also doesn't like the fact that Angel helped the women at the factory and messed up Misael's plan to buy the factory. I am wondering if Monica knows exactly what Misael is up to. I'm glad Adolfo questioned why Misael would want to buy a factory that is nearly bankrupt; hopefully this will be a big red flag for Adolfo.

IIRC Santiago just got that tattoo; so Angel and Elena would not know about it. But I'm sure Rebeca will make Emi believe that Angel knew about it and is covering for her Santiago. At least, I assume that is her plan.
 

Vivir

Andy, your comment offered a good alternate name for that womenowned marmalade factory..." In a Jam"...catchy ...and accurate .

Susan
 

Vida

Chickie, thank you for the excellent recap. I am watching several novelas, and this one is the hardest for me to watch . All the storylines seem trivial next to Paula's diagnosis . I just cannot buy that she isnt focusing on her children and treating her illness . Instead she is pining for crying ,hyperventilating Pepe. I can only watch this show while doing something else. I have to focus on Lor's vast array of scarves and Rosa's sweetness . I can barely look at Paula's tragic face .

I cannot stand Nat or MAL . ugh.

I hope Andrea's mother pops up soon to stir this pot .I want to know her connection to MAL and wonder if MAL framed her for a murder that MAL actually committed . That seems likely considering MAL's evilness. There has to be something there .

Susan
 

VIVIR

Rgv Chick, thank you for your always supportive and very gracious comments.

All the reasons you noted for Monica not liking Angel are very plausible and make perfect sense to me.

I hadn't realized Misael was going to buy the factory but happy that his interest has raised a red flag with his father.

I'm still a little confused about the tattoo. I'm fairly certain Angel did see it when Santiago ran into her the night of the shooting. Didn't she report it to the police? If not, I can't imagine why she didn't especially as she didn't know Santiago had one and that she might have implicated her brother.

Monica is so annoying and nasty, I tended to discount her scenes initially but realize I need to play closer attention. If she doesn't know Misael was responsible for the shooting, I'm certain she will soon find out.

Diana
 

Vida

Thanks so much Rgv Chick, I always enjoy your recaps.

Mal had stomach pains with Pepe when he was not interested in getting back with her, and now with Rafa. She’s a master manipulator as I’m sure now that she faked the first time and did it again. Rafa knows what she’s like, why will he love her all his life? Anyway, I might have imagined it but when MAL had the cramps with Rafa I thought Pepe looked like he knew what she was up to.

Rol isn’t as bright as I thought. He’s alienating Suzy, and she’s the only reason the wedding took place. And Rosa and Emi both are aware of it. And I thought Rol said something to Diego about his father being disappointed. I’m glad Diego told him he wasn’t sick. It sounds like Rol would send him away to “change” him. I hope Diego keeps fighting him and Emi joins in. But he never should have shown Rol the pictures he took. Rol will only get more possessive of Paula.

Lorenzo doesn’t trust Gnat(love the name)but I wish he hadn’t told her. Everyone seems ok with giving the bad guys a heads up.

Liz
 

Vivir #8

Good stuff, Diana.

Angeli did see the tattoo on the night of the shooting and drew it for the detective. If Santiago had shown this to her and Elena we would know but since they did not know of his gambling he would not have shown it off. However, the anonymous caller at the casino is now responsible for Angeli finding out about this. I anticipate a confrontation.

Misael gave Santiago a burner phone but the fact that since he has Santiago's known phone he has solid evidence of his activities is crucial. Santiago is stupid enough to not be worried about this because Misael will throw him under the bus to save his own slimy self.

No matter what Monica says I think she was the gold-digger here. She dresses and paints up so declassee and -- like all narcissists -- projects her own faults onto others. I think her already overinflated lips are lined outside of themselves by just enough in such a bright colour to emphasize them in a manner that can only be described as porn-worthy.

I think she is delusional about Misael's competence in business and he is sufficiently sexist to underestimate women's intelligence in general that he would not confide his motives or modus operandi to her. Of course it is always the smart criminal who says as little as possible about any skullduggery to anyone not of major use to himself. She would probably not care that he is breaking the law; she just interested in getting one over on anyone else she sees as competition for anything.

She also has contempt for anyone who does good for others and the rotten apple fell very close to the poisonous tree.
 

Vida #34

Great work, RGV Chick.

I mostly agree with Doris on all points. MALena must have been faking.

Of course Rolando could never keep faking affection for Paula's children. He has no patience, no parental experience, and no clue about either. He wants Paula's dinero. I think, though, that Gnat (great one!) is smarter than he is and is probably planning to do him in for the money they are chasing. She and her, uh, accomplices can do better than him.

I am very impatient for Zaida's arrival to get the facts of that situation.

Have we seen the last of Ren? I somehow think we haven't.
 

VIVIR

Thanks so much Urban!

I appreciate your refreshing my (bad) memory in that Angel not only noticed the tattoo but drew a picture of it for the police as well!

"Misael gave Santiago a burner phone but the fact that since he has Santiago's known phone he has solid evidence of his activities is crucial. Santiago is stupid enough to not be worried about this because Misael will throw him under the bus to save his own slimy self" was great. Santiago seems like a sitting duck.

Great observations on Monica, love it...

Diana