Caray, Caray!

MI verdad #76 part 1

Well the numbers are messed since they did a 2fer on Friday. My YouTube TV says this is episode 74.

Mateo skedaddles through the hospital in a white lab coat ( I guess he stole that along the way) to the parking garage where he shoves a delivery driver away from his motorcycle, puts on the helmet (safety first) and makes his getaway.

Inspector Sergio alerts the staff to search for Mateo and let him know if he's found. Luciano is totally confused. Inspector tells him he has been charged by Micaela in the disappearance of Ximena.

Dr. Asks Eloisa if she can hear him and all she manages is a mumble. Can you speak, more mumbles. He tells her to be calm, she will likely get her speech back in a few days. But she has had a stroke and she's paralyzed on the left side. We hope therapy will help.

Sergio went to Mateo's apartment to search, but he wasn't there ( did they need him present to search the apartment or were they just searching for Mateo, I'm not sure). If you hear from Mateo let the department or me know. Luciano asks if he is escaping? Inspector doesn't know. After he leaves Aitana sits Luciano down to fill him in on why Mateo is a suspect.

Micaela, Clem and Juventino go to the church to pray for Micaela’s return.

Luciano can't believe what he is hearing about his brother. How does Aitana know this? She says that Micaela told her and Zac. Also the missing Gabriela is physically similar to Ximena.

At Clem's home Gael and Zac are with the 3 that returned from church. Clem and Juventino learn that Eloisa had a stroke. Gael says there is some good news. Zac stares at him. Gael says we are all family and they should know. Belinda's bio mom is Aitana.

Aitana thinks that Mateo and Eloisa were discussing the missing women and it caused her stroke. I think they are accomplices. Luciano really can't believe what he is hearing. Aitana thinks that Mateo was scared and upset mom as a result. Besides the photos there were abortion pills in his secret room to cause Ximena to lose her baby.

Gael doesn't spill the beans about bio dad at least. Zac gave him a dirty look to keep that secret. Zac said Aitana doesn't want to discuss that. Clem is glad mother and daughter have found each other, Juventino thinks it's like a telenovela, lol.

Well the delivery driver was from the hospital pharmacy and he reported a man in a lab coat stole his moto. Photos of Mateo will be shown to see if he is recognized as the thief.

Aitana and Luciano discuss Mateo and how he has to pay. I'm not sure if Luciano wants his mother to be held responsible too if she was involved. I think Aitana tells him not to discuss it with her while her health is so delicate.

Zac wants to have a celebratory dinner for Aitana and Belinda tonight. Micaela is not in the mood to celebrate. (I agree, not the time to do this). Zac will contact Aitana and Karime. It's at 8 p.m. tonight.

Mateo rides the scooter or motorcycle, not sure what it officially is, stops when he sees a parked police car then rides on. The dark helmet helps his disguise, but the flapping lab coat may be a giveaway.

Luciano visits Mama who moans trying to communicate. He tells her to keep calm. We hear her thoughts though. . where is Mateo? Why isn't he here with me?

 

Mi verdad #76 part 2

Aitana is talking to Karime on the phone about Mateo's disappearance when Iñigo arrives at the hospital. Aitana tells him that Luciano is with Mom but Mateo took off. Iñigo says good, he got away. He lets her know he contacted him when the police were looking for him at the ranch. Aitana says that's a crime! Iñigo justifies it because not telling him would be a betrayal of his brother. He asks Aitana who made you my judge? I'm going to find out your game, he taunts her. She's not afraid of him and leaves.

The inspector calls Zac to.letbhim know Mateo is on the run. Zac doubts he'll come to the ranch but he'll tell all the hands to keep watch for him. Aitana calls him. They doubt he'll go far since he's so dependent on mom. She tells him that Iñigo alerted Mateo. I think Zac will tell the police this so they can investigate.

Gael is out in the countryside where so many assignations (he's waiting for Belinda)and conversations occur. Ceci shows up to give him his share in their business venture. She's going solo now. He thanks her and agrees it's for the best. He hugs her goodbye which Belinda witnesses.

Mateo pushes the scooter past the stables at the hacienda. He kinda hides it in the woods.

Well actually Ceci is the one who hugged him and he pulls away and tells her off. She says it was an impulse. He thinks they should totally cut any ties. She wishes him well with Belinda because she won the jackpot with him. Poor Ceci.

Iñigo and Luciano argue about Mateo. Luciano says if he's guilty should pay. Iñigo says what about family first. Oh right you are the perfect son. And Mateo is the favorite of Mama ( which leaves Iñigo as the screw up, right?).

Thankfully Belinda is not mad about what she saw between Gael and Ceci. Gael tells her he only has eyes for her and they share a few kisses. She asks why did you want to see me? To invite you to dinner as a celebration. She's not interested in going. (Yup, too soon,).

Well, the deformity is a cleft palate. Larisa still doesn't want him. She has no money to pay for the operation needed in the first few months, though the doctor says there are medical loans she could get. She storms off.

Belinda is storming off too as she is in no mood to celebrate. She wants Gael to help her find her bio dad so she has the whole story. Gael tries to reason with her, you wanted to find your mother and you did. But I'll tell the family no special dinner tonight.

Iñigo insists that Luciano has to pay for a lawyer for Mateo as it's Mom's money. He agrees to that, I think. (I'm getting a bit confused in these scenes between Luciano and Iñigo.) Aitana comes into the waiting area and informs them when Eloisa leaves the hospital they will need 2 nurses. Her commitment ended with the final cancer treatment. Iñigo is mad.

Larisa wonders if Eloisa would accept her not so perfect baby as Iñigo is the father. Looking for her meal ticket again …

 

Mi verdad #76 part 3

Iñigo argues that Aitana shouldn't leave his mother in her hour of need. Luciano stops him from yelling at her. Iñigo mutters to Luciano, she's quitting because she is with Zac and she thinks he's rich. He goes to visit mom. Aitana questions why he said the things he said. Luciano informs her he spied us together and came to the valid conclusion that I have feelings for you. But, you have no obligation to mom, go ahead with your plans.

Iñigo tells a sleeping mom to look at your favorite son, he's an idiot and is in big trouble, and the son you are so proud of (Luciano )he's a stupid traitor. I'm here at your side and you need to give me what I deserve (help with this line please).

Nuria's boss wants to talk to her. He wants to give her a promotion. With a raise, of course. She's so happy, she can afford to take care of her girls without her ex now.

Iñigo plots with his girls on a video call to get them to ask Mom to take them to Mexico City and there he will be able to see them alone. But this is our secret.

Mateo is in a cabin full of cobwebs. No one will look for me here he thinks.

At the hacienda Belinda and Zac let the police search for Mateo. Zac asks Belinda how she is. She is upset, she likes Ximena. Zac tells her the hacienda may not be the safest place and she should go with Aitana. Belinda needs time and is sick of being pressured. Zac backs off, it's just my point of view. I don't want to be away from dad.

Luciano arrives home and he talks with Belinda about missing Mateo and sick abuela. He asks why she isn't at the dinner with Gael. Because they want to make it a celebration!

At Zac's Miriam has arrived. She's excited to formally meet her granddaughter. Gael arrives. No Belinda. She doesn't want to come. She's obsessed with finding her dad. Juventino suggests she should be told who it is to help her adjust faster. Aitana says that will never be.

Luciano schools Belinda on her bratty behavior. If anyone needs it described I'll add later. But he is an excellent father!

Aitana can't eat because she's so upset. A knock on the door brings Belinda and Luciano. Happy faces all around. She will stay with them until Luciano returns from visiting his mom.

Mateo is going a bit more crazy. He finds an axe handle and wipes the cobwebs from it.

Happy times at Zac's house. Miriam introduces herself to Belinda. Belinda calls her señora. No call me Miriam or abuela, not señora.

Mateo goes to Clem's house with his axe handle where Micaela is by herself. She hears a sound and goes looking. And we get a cliff hanger tonight. Will Micaela be the next casualty. Where are the police that are staking out the place, I'm pretty sure Clem's house is next to the hacienda (although the aerial view of the hacienda makes it look like nothing is nearby).

 

MI VERDAD

Kat, thank you for another outstanding recap. You brought all of the high anxiety and stressful moments vividly to life.

"Larisa wonders if Eloisa would accept her not so perfect baby as Iñigo is the father. Looking for her meal ticket again …" was spot on!

With Mateo completing his descent into madness, all hell is breaking loose. I hope Micaela is spared; haven't there been enough mental and physical casualties?

"Juventino suggests she should be told who it is to help her adjust faster. Aitana says that will never be". So what is Aitana's plan? If she won't tell Belinda the truth, there are only two options: to either lie or flat out refuse to ID him. Neither of those options seem at all plausible or realistic.

I still can't believe Aitana hasn't told Luciano the truth! Is this going to end up being an 11th hour confession??

Zac wants to have a mother/daughter reunion celebration? Really dude? Thick as a brick.

"...the deformity is a cleft palate. Larisa still doesn't want him." Speechless...

I wonder if Eloisa will regain her ability to speak. A fitting punishment (or at least one of them) would be that she doesn't. Her pitiful mewling and anguish regarding Mateo doomed to reverberate in her diseased brain without ever being able to be uttered.

Diana
 

Mi Verdad

Thank you Kat. Gonna get this comment in before sleep and I lose my train of thought.

Iñigo was super annoying to me in this episode. Firstly because he told Aitana that he warned Mateo and allowed him to escape then when he told Luciano that Aitana is with Zac because Z is rich and that’s why she kicked Luciano to the curb.

So basically Belinda was upset because she wants to know more about her biological father and what happened to him. She questioned if perhaps she is a result of a one night stand. Luciano reminded her that she went through all the trouble in trying to find her biological parents which resulted in her getting kidnapped and now that she knows who her biological mother is instead of being happy, she is complaining about whatever.

Juventino’s reaction to Aitana being Belinda’s mom was so funny.
 

Mi verdad

I'm having trouble keeping the kitchens and houses straight. I wasn't sure which house was hosting the celebration dinner. I finally nailed it down to Zac as Gael knocked and wouldn't if it had been Clem's place. Clem's kitchen in the end I thought was the hacienda's kitchen, but Micaela wouldn't be there.

In one scene Aitana is happy that Mateo is finally going to pay for all the things he's done, including killing her father and what he did to her. I don't see how that will happen if she doesn't report him, which means Luciano will learn the truth eventually. Diana, I have the feeling it will be an 11th hour confession, but perhaps 2 episodes from the end so he can be mad about her hiding things for an episode, then he can forgive her and we will have the HEAs in the final episode.
 

Mi verdad

Thanks, Kat.

Another excellent episode.

Well, well, Larisa had quite the surprise with the cleft palate diagnosis. It will be interesting to see what she does now.

Iñigo was so obnoxious to Aitana yet so upset she will no longer be nursing his mother. Is his curiosity about her the real reason he wants her to stay?

Where is Ximena? No locked room is going to hide her presence at some point soon.
 

Guardián de mi vida

Ah, cattle and maguey plants topped off with Daniel Arenas looking as cute as ever and sounding oh so folksy in his role. Unfortunately for me, I still remembered the first episode of “Amores verdaderos” much better than I thought. Another day, another novela . . .
 

Guardián de me vida

Oops, I missed that this was starting. Does it look promising Jarifa?
 

Guardian De MI Vida
I love watched this first episode and liked it . I am a fan of both Daniel and Diego, the loyal body guards . Also, there are many familiar faces . Sergio Sendel looks so different with his silver hair in a man bun and his blue eyes. He is a cheating husband and a rat . i wonder if he will do any of his signature phone throwing. Kimberly Dos Ramos is a villain and her partner in crime is also a familiar face, but I can't remember his name . I am in the this one . Susan
 

MI verdad
Kat, thank you for bringing us all the madness as we are hurled toward the finish line .
Do we know what BSC Matteo did with Ximena's body ? Sometimes I think that we follow the storylines better than the writers do. Have they painted themselves into a corner with so many things to resolve and so little time ?

I hope that the writers didn't decide that we we needed more victims of Matteo poor Michae!a..if

Yes, Zac is in a different time zone . Hello!!! Susan
 

Guardián de mi vida

Kat, it looks like a quality production just not my cup of tea. 🫤

Susan, I cannot take Sergio Sendel (or any man really) with a man bun. Yikes! Anyway, Sendel is the perfect villain no matter how he is “coiffed”. You will have to let us know if he does his signature phone throw. 😊
 

Guardián de mi vida

Kat, this is a remake of “Amores verdaderos” from 2013.
 

Mi verdad
Thank you Kat for another super recap.

Luciano told Aitana he’s coming around to what Micaela says—Mateo is a criminal. Luciano said he won’t let Eloisa cover for him anymore. Luciano told Iñigo he would pay for Mateo’s lawyer, but not get involved in his defense.

When Iñigo was talking to Eloisa, he said Mateo was an idiot and Luciano was a traitor, so he should be in charge (didn’t they try this already?)

When Iñigo was telling his daughters to get Nuria to take them to Mexico City so he could figure out how to get together, one of the girls mentioned an amusement park. What is he plotting?

I can’t keep Mateo’s places straight! Why were the police searching the hacienda without searching his apartment/secret room? Waiting for Mateo to show up makes no sense. And then there is the ranch office.

Is there any chance Luciano figures out Aitana’s secret before she tells him? He is piecing bits together and although wild, it is all there before him.
Clara
 

Guardián

Jarifa, I started watching telenovelas in 2023 so unless I looked up old suggestions I'm not familiar with the older ones. The benefit of that is I have no preconceived ideas on the shows. I think I've only seen Kimberly in one show as the protagonist so her being bad will be an adjustment.
 

Guardián de mi vida

I only intended to watch a few minutes but ended up watching the entire epiosde.

Overall, the casting is excellent. "...Daniel Arenas looking as cute as ever and sounding oh so folksy in his role" was perfect Jarifa! Oh my yes (deep sigh). Diego Klein is very appealing, I liked him immediately. Paulina Goto is well cast as the good hearted but spoiled "Barbi". Sergio Sendel looks ridiculous with the man bun but I have to say his amazing eyes haven't lost their sparkle a bit. Kimberly does villains very well!

That said, nothing can replace Amores Verdaderos. Eduardo Yanez and Erika Buenfil were THE love story of the ages for me. Their meeting and chemistry did a slow burn to the melting point and it was incredible. The one thing that bothered me here is that Sofia and Franco's attraction was a bit too overt. One of the hazards of seeing the original vs. a remake.

This looks good and to those of you watching, I'm sure you will enjoy it.

Diana
 

MI VERDAD

"Is there any chance Luciano figures out Aitana’s secret before she tells him? He is piecing bits together and although wild, it is all there before him" is a great point Clara. We shall soon see :)

Diana
 

Guardián

Kat, remakes can be excellent. As a matter of fact, my favorite novela of all time “ La fea más bella” was the Mexican remake of the Colombian novela “Yo soy Betty la fea” which I never saw.

My gripe with refritos in novelalandia and the greater entertainment industry in general is that they prevent newer more in inventive content to be created. But since it is all about $$$$, the powers that be seem to prefer to bet on something that made them or somebody else $$$$ in the past.
 

Guardian

Diana, I'm.glad you will be watching . As you know , I was a big fan of Ed Yanez,and Erika , and I enjoyed AV very much. However, I think Daniel did a fine job in this first episode . We need heroes , and I think that is the way he will.portray this character .I also am a fan of Diego.

Jarifa, I don't mind remakes if they are well done . I dont like man buns either , but this look gives Sergio a brand new slick and evil look. Those blue eyes pop with pompous malice and bravado. He is a legend in his own mind .

Kat, Kim DOS Ramos has been in many novelas , and she usually plays bad girls . She can really bring the evil. Susan


 

Mi Verdad

I’m late to the party but what an outstanding recap, Kat. I was afraid Mateo would do something to Belinda or Mateo. He seemed to be in the same woods.

Inigo was obnoxious, more so than usual. Although he’s always nasty to Aitana. What a creepy look he has! And especially his expression I think he’s going to kidnap the girls. How else would he get to be alone with them.

Another cliffhanger ending I. I don’t want another killing.
 

Mi Verdad

Not Mateo, Gael.
 

Guardian

Kimberly is awesome as a bad girl, Kat! She's sweet as a protag but she's very good at being very bad!
 

Guardian

I'm going to check this one out! I haven't seen AV so I have that going for me. Plus, I'm a big fan of Daniel so I'm in!
 

Guardian

Darcy, it will be great to watch a novela with you . It's been awhile . I'm trying to remember when you first joined us here at caray...2024? Susan
 

Guardian

Susan, I joined caray. My first novelas were La Desmalada and Si Nos Dejan. I'd found Caray many years before that, but I didn't start commenting and contributing regularly until 2021.

However, my first ever comment was all the way back in 2016 on Vino el Amor - some brilliant insight on how adorable Christian de la Campa is, lol. I didn't stick with Vino though because at the time I didn't understand Spanish well enough to follow the story with English subtitles.
 

Mi verdad #77 part 1

Nuria Ceci and the girls are eating dinner. Ceci tells the girls how proud she is of their mother getting a promotion so quickly. They complain that they never see her anymore. Nuria says they should plan to do something on the weekend and they suggest a theme park or something in Mexico City and Nuria thinks that's a great idea.

Iñigo tries to calm an agitated Mama. He assures her Mateo is hiding where he can't be found, but the police are looking for him because Ximena is missing.

Micaela asks whose there then faints dead away on the floor. Mateo enters. He sees her lying there and nudges her foot with his

Juanjo and Nuria discuss the plight of the working mother and the sacrifices they make to care for their children. Juanjo admires Nuria for how well she is doing. She needs to stop beating herself up and be proud of the job she is doing. But don't bride the girls with presents because you feel they aren't getting enough of your time. She mentions the amusement park idea on the weekend and he says yes, that's a good thing to do. Does he invite himself along ( with his boys?). They do discuss getting the children together, his hers and ours. He wants to have a child with her. She smiles so perhaps she wouldn't mind another child if it's with Juanjo.

Mateo, ungloved, is filling a sack with food from Clem's kitchen.

Luciano replaces Iñigo at Eloisa's bedside for the night shift.

Iñigo looks at some papers. He wants to take charge of the family business again. Inspector Estrada knocks at his door. Where's your brother? I learned you earned him and we were looking for him. Iñigo said I let him know you were looking for him because of Ximena. That's not unlawful. Inspector Estrada tells him if you are hiding him and no where he is that is obstruction of justice and you can be charged too.

Besides food Mateo grabs a backpack and a blanket. He searches some of the kitchen drawers (for a knife perhaps) but doesn't find what he's looking for. He leaves a mess on the floor and departs.

Larisa is in a hotel room in Mexico City I assume. She's hitting the little bottles of whiskey pretty hard. She figures the damage is already done to the baby so she'll just drink and try to decide what to do.

Mateo gets back to his hideout, puts on a hoody he stole, wraps himself in the blanket and devours an apple. He misses mommy.

Belinda goes home from the dinner party with Aitana. They are happy they've found each other, but Belinda just can't let the question of her paternity go. Know what would make me happy? Telling me about my father. Am I the result of a fling?

Clem and Juventino find Micaela passed out on the floor and they wake her up and get her to a couch. Juventino gives her her pills and goes to the kitchen for water and notices the towels on the floor, etc and tries to alert Clem about it with a nod of his head. Gael comes in.

 

Mi verdad #77 part 2

Aitana tells Belinda she was very tired and that was not thinking of the consequences. I wasn't in my five senses (does that mean she was drunk, not familiar with this term). She met a guy at a fiesta, she wasn't sure if his name, maybe Chinos or something like that because he was curly haired and he was older than me. Belinda asks did you ever think of having an abortion. Never.

Gael goes to the kitchen and sees the mess. Fruit is gone, money from a jar ( I missed that when I watched Mateo getting stuff), Micaela's purse, Gael says also.some clothes are missing. They are going to report it to the inspector. Seems a phone call is in order, but the men leave the woman folk and tell them to lock up.

Belinda, you are always a blessing in my life. Hugs. Aitana looks relieved Belinda bought her story.

Mateo goes to where he hid the scooter under some brush. He tries to do something to it, groans in frustration and appears to throw a handkerchief or towel into the brush.

Belinda is ok at home, dad is back. She goes up to her room.

Gael and Juventino find a patrol car around the ranch and tell them they think Mateo stole food, money and clothes from their house. They ask where is it and follow them back

Belinda goes to talk to dad. She met her new abuela, she seems nice. Very different from Eloisa. At the end of the dinner Zac took out a ring and asked Aitana to marry him (Luciano is devastated, I wonder if the scene was cut since we didn't get to witness the proposal).

Zac arrives at Clem's house after hearing the news. The police are investigating. He tells them they should go to his house. Clem says we are safe here now, the police are keeping watch. Zac tells them to lock up right then.

Mateo rides the scooter to what appears to be a homeless camp. He hides the scooter under a blanket and cardboard boxes and sits down on a crate. This is really weird. You would have thought some of the homeless guys would investigate what he is doing there.

The police go to the hacienda to tell Luciano about Mateo. Zac is with them. They figure he went to Clem's place because the hacienda was under surveillance. I notice Aitana is wearing a diamond on her left hand. Police and Zac leave. Aitana heads up to her room.

Juventino thinks Micaela knows who Belinda’s dad is and tries to pump her for information. Why the mystery. Mica says some things are best not known, and this is one of them.

The police find Mateo's hideout, which he's vacated. They call the inspector to let him know.

Ceci tells Nuria she has decided to study for a career. She will still be able to help with the girls because will go to college during the day like her nieces. Nuria is proud of her. This will change your life. Nuria will pay her for caring for the girls so she can pay for college. (I guess that was a generous raise she got).

Amador's lawyer asks him if there is any chance he can give the money back he stole. It could reduce your sentence. The money isn't in this country. Can he get it into his daughter's name, or is he wondering if his daughter has money to help him reimburse those he stole from. (I'm unsure of this convo.)

Larisa is eating at an outdoor cafe. She has to decide what to do about the baby. She gets a call from Dad's lawyer. He needs to see her.

 

Mi verdad #77 part 3

Iñigo and Luciano are at the hospital and discuss the missing Mateo. The doctor tells them Mom will start therapy and hopefully regain her speech. She can go home in a few days.

Gael and Belinda walk outside and discuss crazy Mateo, and the fact that Belinda changed her mind about going to dinner last night. She says everyone encouraged me to go, so I went. Living with Mama means Dad will be alone so I'm conflicted. Gael notes she referred to Aitana as mama.

The Dr mentions the need for 2 nurses since Aitana is quitting. He thinks it's a shame as she is such a good nurse. Iñigo points out nobody is indispensable.

Miriam tells Mica that it's a shame the worry about Ximena is affecting her health. Mica says she's spoken to Ximena's parents and they are as worried as she is (I'm surprised her parents haven't been there looking for Ximena). Mica can't get it out of her head that Ximena is dead. How can I tell her parents?

Mateo drives the scooter to some town. He's not wearing his glasses I notice. He sells the scooter cheap to some guy hanging out.

Larisa talks to dad. What is it you want? I want you to convince the Lizarrágas to drop the charges against me in exchange for returning their money. She doesn't think that will work and how will you live with no money. He'll make do, he can't stand being stuck in jail the rest of his life. How will you get the money? Amador tells her you can go to the island and transfer it for me ( will she transfer it and run off with it like daddy did I wonder?). Daughter, help me. What good is it to be a millionaire if I'm in jail?

Aitana helps Eloisa into the wheelchair for X-rays. Iñigo leaves to get something to eat. Luciano and Aitana discuss Belinda. Her eating disorder is getting better thanks to therapy. Belinda told me you and Zac are engaged. I don't want you to marry him. I love you with all my heart. We could make a wonderful family for Belinda far from here, like Bruno.

Miriam and Belinda discuss her birth. Miriam explains why she told Aitana that she was dead. The doctors felt when she regained consciousness that your disappearance from the orphanage would kill her (and learning your child died in childbirth is better!). Miriam tells her I gave her a grave to cry at. I'm the only one responsible for this. She believed you were dead.

Aitana tells Luciano it's too late for them. He insists it's never too late for love. You know Belinda wants us to get together. Aitana begs him to not push for them to be together. He says fine and gets angry at her. She runs off.

 

MI VERDAD

Kat, thank you for another well written summary as well as your insightful comments.

Micaela lives to see another day; a very close call.

We assumed it was coming but I can't believe we weren't shown Zac's proposal as well as Aitana's acceptance! Seeing that sparkler on her finger just seemed to deflate and crush Luciano.

I was shocked that Ximena's parents are alive. If they were mentioned, I have no recollection.

"The doctors felt when she regained consciousness that your disappearance from the orphanage would kill her (and learning your child died in childbirth is better!)" was exactly right Kat. "Miriam tells her I gave her a grave to cry at" was hard to listen to.

Another event that stretched creduity was (as you noted), Mateo arriving at the homeless encampment, (on a moto no less) and setting himself up without a word or a glance from the other residents. Far fetched at best.

Now Aitana has gotten engaged to someone she doesn't love, lied to her daughter about her conception and rejected Luciano. Again.

Time to wrap this up.

Diana
 

O/T

Good to see your post Darcy!

If Guardian turns out to be half as good as Amores Verdaderos, I am sure you will enjoy it! Daniel Arenas is as good a reason to watch as anything I can think of! :)

Diana
 

Mi verdad

Thanks, Kat. So much that went so wrong in this episode but not your delightful recap!

Diana, congrats! You said it first “Time to wrap this up!”

It was loser’s circle last night.

Yes, what happened to the proposal scene? I kept thinking I must have missed something. Maybe it was good we didn’t have to watch it. What is wrong with Aitana’s head? Evidently too much. Luciano should thank his lucky stars and run in the opposite direction.

Unbelievable that Mateo didn’t find a knife in the kitchen, (scissors, serving fork, anyone?) or anything better than a (maybe . . . sharpened?) piece of wood. Sure nobody noticed him.

I do think (and hope that) Larisa is going to take the money and run to parts unknown.

Where is Ximena anyway?
 

MI VERDAD

"It was loser’s circle last night' had me smiling and nodding Jarifa! Nailed it.

I'm thinking they will find Ximena's body with 2 minutes to go in the finale, just as Aitana finally tells Luciano the truth.

Diana
 

Mi verdad
Diana, there is just so much in this novela that makes no sense.😵‍💫
 

Mi verdad
More thanks to you, Kat. At least not heavy dialogue last night with all the scenes of Mateo on the run!

I didn’t realize Aitana had decided to go with the one night stand story, including a sort-of description of the guy. To be in one’s “cinco sentidos,” five senses, means to be aware, focused, grounded. So not to be in one’s cinco sentidos could maybe include being drunk, but more like not thinking straight, not in my right mind. Aitana also told Belinda she was irresponsible and a bad example.

As for Amador’s plan, his lawyer encouraged him to send someone he trusts to go get the money to use as leverage to negotiate a reduced sentence or for the Lizárraga’s dropping the charges, speeding up the process.
Amador has no one he trusts other than Larisa, and he told her he’d sign a power of attorney for her to go get the money. It is in Islas Amauris (AI says likely Mauritius Islands, in Indian Ocean).

In the final scene, when Aitana begs Luciano to stop pleading for her, he agrees, but his final words were: although it breaks my heart.

Seems a lot to be resolved!
Clara
 

Mi verdad
It did strike me last night that although they haven’t found Ximena or Mateo (!!), Inspector Sergio and his team are presented as diligent and respectful. A different image of the police than the rudeness, incompetence, and corruption often shown in TNs.
Clara
 

MI verdad

Clara, good comment about the portrayal of law enforcement.
 

Mi verdad

Thanks for the five senses clarification, Clara. I hoped you would chime in. Also thanks for elaborating on some of the dialogue and scenes. I'm getting to them after 9 p.m. as I take advantage of the daylight hours to plant and harvest vegetables. The green beans are coming in now. Out of curiosity, are you a native Spanish speaker?

That ranch is large do I imagine Mateo has dumped the bodies in a pond or out in the woods somewhere, though the plausibility factor of him removing Ximena's body from his apartment without anyone seeing him is slim. I would imagine some DNA will be found in his car or trunk , though if he sat her in the front seat he could claim the DNA is there because she was his girlfriend. The more I think about it, he may have just carried her to the car and hoped he would go unnoticed. It seems he killed her in the morning because he came back for his phone and found her in the room. Then he took the bus out of town with her ticket and suitcase. So disappearing her body would have happened that evening or after he had dinner with the family and claimed she left him.

The police (who are not on the take in this show, thank goodness) need to get some video footage from the bus station. I'm sure there are closed circuit cameras there. I'm surprised that hasn't happened yet. Also they need to access the phone records so they see his text from Iñigo.

I still wonder about the sex traffic storyline and that bad guy pulling the strings. Will they go anywhere with it? If not it could set up a second season with Bruno and Caty's story as the focus, lol. The actress playing Caty is the producer's daughter....

I am so sick of Aitana and her treatment of Zac. And I'm sick of Zac being so obsessed with someone who doesn't love him back. Yes she loves him, but isn't in love with him like she is with Luciano.
 

GUARDIAN

Not sure I'll stick with this one, but I'm going to give it a try. Who knew kidnapping was such a daily occurrence in Alternate Mexico?

I can't get over that gigantic hacienda in the middle of Nowherecactuslandia with only one guard. You'd need more than that just to scare off the SNAKES.
 

Mi verdad
Kat, flattered you might think so, but no, I am not a native Spanish speaker (I suspect Jarifa is, though)! I’ve been studying Spanish, watching TNs, and traveling extensively in Mexico for…..let’s just say, a few decades.
I’m lucky to have good non-English speaking Mexican friends to keep my ear tuned up. Unfortunately they are too polite to correct me!
I think my vocabulary, comprehension, and Mexican slang are pretty good. Grammar not so much.
TNs I can pretty much follow the dialogue, but if several people are yelling at same time, as often in Mi Verdad, I can get lost. I try not to post anything I’m not sure of.

Kat, I am amazed at your comprehension given your relatively short time learning Spanish. I know you have mentioned other languages too. You must have natural language ability.

Also, since you raised the bus investigation topic, I’ll add something that’s been bothering me. As a veteran of many bus trips in Mexico, there is far more security than we saw with Mateo. I imagine the strength of the security measures depend on the route and other factors, but in my experience it is more like an airport: metal detector, baggage screening, baggage check-in inside the station with receipt. Baggage handlers load the bus. And something that would have sunk Mateo: once all the passengers in their seats, video taken down the aisle with a close up of each passenger! Not sure, but I assume meant to deter a passenger from holding up everyone else on the bus.
Clara


 

Guardian

Blue Lass, good to see you. The mansions in these new telenovelas get bigger and bigger and more elaborate .

I noticed last night that Diego's character's dad is a face I have seen in many novelas , and his niece is the little girl from " Receta."

Sophia's father is another familiar face . Susan



 

GUARDIAN

Susan, good on you for recognizing little Maria/Luna/Sam! I'll have to look at her more closely. It seemed like she was pretty much underwater the whole time.

I knew I recognized that gambling daddy from somewhere -- he was that horrible hospital administrator in MEDICOS. The one with the grasping wife and the 100-year-old poodle that used to sit at table with them.
 

Guardian

Blue Lass ...ha ...yes indeed , that actor was in Medicos. Inthink.he often plays a bad guy.


Sofias 's dad has been in many novelas...sometimes a rich guy, sometimes a poor guy, sometimes a good guy, sometimes a bad guy . His hair styles change with each role . Is the blonde older woman having the hissyfits his wife ?
Susan. Edit
 

Mi Verdad

Thanks Kat, I enjoyed the recap. I had thought I slept through the proposal so good to know that it wasn’t shown. The show seemed repetitive so they could have cut Inigo talking to his mom about being manager, or Luciano and Aitana declaring or denying their love. I would have liked to see the proposal, even if it would make me mad.

I’m glad Nuria got a promotion. Inigo probably spent years putting her down so it’s good to see her feeling capable. The girls will have to see what their dad is really like for them to be happy with their mom.

My first thought with Dad’s proposal to Larisa was that she’d take the money and run. And hopefully get caught, Luciano needs that money!

 

Guardián

I had to watch the first episode on Dailymotion as I forgot to add it to my library. So many familiar faces. The dailymotion episode was a wide angle version, probably to confuse the censors. I don't have vix premium and I for. It'll take me a bit to figure out there names and relationships. Not a fan of the Platinum blonde look on Kimberly dos Ramos.
 

Guardian

Kat, I think that Kimberly is a natural blonde. That was her color in most of the shows that I have seen her in . She knows how to play a villain that we all love to hate. Susan
 

Guardian

I also thought there was something off about Kimberly's look, but I don't think it's her hair color - she is a natural blonde. I think it's the foundation they have no her, it's too light, too pale; it makes her hair look too blonde, like it's washing her out.
 

MI verdad #78 part 1

Aitana runs into Karime in a hospital corridor. She's weepy and tells Karime that Luciano asked her to run away with him and Belinda like Bruno to die and she was so tempted but it's not possible.

Miriam wants Belinda to not blame her mother, it's her fault. Don't keep distance between you and your mom. Belinda says, abuela it's nobody's fault, it was fate. Miriam cries because she has called her abuela and they hug.

Mateo puts up his hoodie and wanders in the mist back to.the homeless camp. He is noticed by some of the guys. He puts the money in his hoodie pocket and takes a sub from his pocket and starts wolfing it down. 3 men approach him holding a knife. He gives them the money.

Larisa calls Luciano, but he doesn't answer. She calls him back from the unknown hotel phone which he does answer. He wants to hang up but she says my dad has a proposition. He wants to return the money and have your family remove the charges. Luciano tells her about Eloisa having the stroke and being in no condition to even be told about it. When she improves he'll let her know. After they hang up Larisa bemoans the fact that she lost him by her actions. She loves him.

Aitana massages Eloisa's left hand to help with the paralysis. Eloisa says Mateo, where is Mateo, so she has regained some speech. Aitana calls Dr Mendiola on the call button and unlike every other hospital in the world, he comes in within seconds. He's happy she is speaking, though it's a broken record of her saying Mateo. Also, good news, the oncologist says you're cured and don't need the final radiation treatment. “Thank God” the broken record (Eloisa) skips to a new line.

Belinda has a therapy session with the therapist whose name I've forgotten. She tells her she's no longer eating and purging and her anxiety level is lower. They discuss other coping mechanisms she can employ.

Larisa debates with herself about helping dad. She calls his lawyer and says make the arrangements, I'll do it. She will make a decision about the baby after that.

Several minutes of scenes play out as a song plays. Cool, I don't have to translate anything. Mateo is eating from trash cans, Karime is outside a place called Oasis and meets a lady which I'm not sure about, Iñigo pays a hooker in his hotel, Larisa continues to drink shots of liquor at her home, Luciano hires 2 nurses …

Iñigo visits his sleeping mother in her hospital room but she's sleeping so he'll come back later. Mateo, wearing disposable scrubs, visits her. He wakes her up and tells her I don't have much time. I need a fake passport and money. She's missed him so much.




 

Mi verdad #78 part 2

Belinda helps Aitana pack her things. She's going to rent a small house in Matlan, close to the college etc so if she wants to stay with her she would be comfortable.

Mateo tells Mama he's living in the sewers because no one looks for him there. Tomorrow she will try to get the stuff he needs ( how? Iñigo I guess might help). She tells him she loves him and they are bound by the secrets they share.

Belinda tells Aitana at this time she wants to stay with dad…Aitana understands, but my door is always open to you. Belinda thinks it's best to not tell Eloisa about Aitana being her mother at this time. Aitana is in total agreement.

Zac has his family sit down at the table. The inspector has found a dead body. Micaela is convinced it is Ximena. I knew she was dead.

Eloisa returns home. As she is wheeled from the car by the house servants Luciano recalls Aitana's arrival all those months prior. He had thought she was too young and beautiful and would be a problem for his brothers, and it ends up that he's the one that fell in love with her. She says you aren't the only one whose expectations changed. I never imagined I'd find my daughter at this hacienda. Luciano says something like God laughs when we make plans. But neither of them are laughing.

Micaela is convinced Mateo killed her and he has to pay. Zac says the body needs to be identified. Micaela is going to the station.

Eloisa is happy to be home, she's missed it. Luciano asks Aitana to go over Mom's treatment plan with Leonora, (a new nurse I assume). Belinda and her therapist come in and Belinda welcomes abuela home with a hug. Sofia, the therapist, leaves. Luciano asks how the therapy has been going. It's going well, I'm at the point where I need to admit to you all what's been going on, so she tells them about her bulimia, which is only news to Eloisa. They are proud of her for taking this big step in her treatment.
Eloisa wants to go to her room so Luciano takes her.

As Luciano settles mom in bed he tells her about Armando. We need that money to settle with the Castillos so you don't have to leave the hacienda. She wants to discuss it later, Mateo is the only important one at this point. He needs a decision by tomorrow. She agrees she'll tell him tomorrow. Now she wants Leonora.

Leonora. Enters and helps Eloisa make a call to her lawyer. She sends Leonora away as she takes the phone back. Eloisa tells the lawyer to sell her jewels quickly

Aitana bids Luciano goodbye. From now on we only meet to talk about Belinda. He wishes her every happiness and she wishes the same to him. He says that won't happen. She leaves to say goodbye to his mother.

Iñigo gets a call from his girls. They are going to Mexico City tomorrow. He'll contact them in the evening to let them know the plan.

Belinda and Aitana say goodbye. Belinda will miss having her around. Aitana reminds her she will be close by. It's not the same, she cries.

Eloisa gives the jewels to Gloria to bring to the lawyer. If you steal them I'll kill you. Gloria assures her she'd never! Not a word to anyone. Belinda and Aitana enter. Aitana wants to say goodbye. Eloisa says adios. Belinda gets upset that that's all she can say. Aitana tells her she understands. She was paid to do a job. She tells Eloisa I wish you a speedy recovery. Adios.


 

MI verdad #78 part 3

Iñigo checks on hotels in Mexico City.

Zac comes to the hacienda. He's upset he has Micaela in the car. They are going to the morgue, they think they found Ximena’s body. Everyone cries.

Larisa meets with perhaps Dad's lawyer,or some financial guy. She needs to sign some paperwork to get the money in her name. Why my name, her eyes widened. To repay the debts. She tells him to let her know when I have to travel to get the money as he leaves. All the money is in my name, she muses with a smile.

At the morgue Mica identifies Ximena as she weeps. Aitana points to a rug. That's where we found Ximena. The secure cameras had footage of Mateo leaving with the rug.

Now Mateo is stealing food from street vendors. He's wearing a knit hat now and looking scruffier.

Everyone at Clem's house cries about Ximena. They can get the body after the autopsy. Zac is as mad as anyone and all I can think is this would never have happened if he hadn't decided that Aitana was the love of his life and broke up with Ximena!

Sergio Estrada comes to the ranch to tell Luciano and Iñigo that Mateo is responsible for the murder of Ximena. Iñigo says how can you be sure. The evidence proves he wrapped her in the rug she was found in that belongs to Mateo. The next step is to find your brother. If anyone helps him escape they are guilty of being an accomplice to her murder. Luciano understands. You Iñigo? Iñigo gulps.

Iñigo and Eloisa are at breakfast together. She wants his help to get Mateo a passport. Iñigo explains things are bad for him. Eloisa knows. Iñigo realizes she knows and that's what caused her stroke. She will take care of him if he helps.

Ximena’s parents actually make an appearance at her wake. They want to return her body to their pueblo. Clem says we'll have the mass here and arrange for the transport. Seems to me these are decisions her parents should make, not Clem.

Belinda and Luciano discuss Mateo the assassin. Zac and Aitana pull up in their truck. Then Nuria drives up to show Luciano the results of the paternity test. He heads back inside the hacienda.

Iñigo is telling Mom she will owe him if he helps as it's very dangerous. She agrees. Luciano storms in and decks him. He and Nuria inform Eloisa and everyone that Iñigo betrayed him when he was engaged to Larisa and is the father of the baby. Nuria shows him the results on her phone then she slaps him. Eloisa tells him to get out and he's out of her will.



 

MI VERDAD

Kat, thank you for your excellent, detailed recap.

“Thank God” the broken record (Eloisa) skips to a new line" was great.

Your "...all I can think is this would never have happened if he hadn't decided that Aitana was the love of his life and broke up with Ximena!" is exactly right. A terrible journey from being happy and in love to being abused and then murdered. A cruel fate indeed.

"Ximena’s parents actually make an appearance at her wake". From what we've seen, Clem (and Micaela even more so) seemed to take far better care of and had far more of an interest in Ximena than her own parents.

Was Eloisa a bit hasty to cut Iñigo out? Mateo needs money and a passport; is there a lackey in waiting to do the dirty work? None that I see.

Diana
 

Mi Verdad

Thank you Kat.

Now that Ximena’s body has been found unless the cops are incompetent then Mateo retuning to the hacienda is very risky. I’m not surprised by Eloisa’s determination to help him.

However, with Iñigo out of Eloisa’s will and Mateo certainly getting caught does that mean that Luciano will get everything? As much as Eloisa might wish to leave something for Mateo, it honestly doesn’t seem possible at this point.

Iñigo planning to meet his daughters without Nuria’s knowledge does not sound good. He is continuing to make things difficult for Nuria all because she moved on.
 

GUARDIAN

Lots of interesting backstory in episode 2, but it left me with more questions than answers. I guess that's how they pull you in.

Why do Grecia and Uriel hate Sofia and Gonzalo so much?

Why did Sofia's sister leave home and where did she go?

Why is "Chava" a nickname for Salvador?

Is Sofia ever going to put on a dress?

Susan, Ines is apparently Daddy's luvvvrrr, and they were carrying on even while Sofia's Mom was dying of cancer. That's why she won't have her in the house.
 

Mi verdad
Thank you, Kat.
No show tonight, a welcome break! My guide says Guardian at 8 then futbol.

Little to chime in on. After the montage it’s “days later.” Pedro (a driver?) is charged with taking Eloisa’s jewelry to a certain address. In Larisa’s musings to herself about Amador’s plan (opening a new account in her name, transferring the money into it for her to use to pay back the Lizárragas), she mumbles: all in my name, what if I run away like my dad?

Belinda and Luciano discussed Belinda’s safety. She asked him if Mateo would come to the hacienda? They have security there. Belinda believes her uncle Mateo wouldn’t be capable of hurting her, but Luciano said he was not in his right mind.

Such a bizarre connection between Mateo and Mom. I wish we could get some backstory.
Clara
 

Guardian
Blue Lass, if you look up Spanish naming customs hipocoristico in Wikipedia, you’ll get answers about Salvador’s nickname.
Clara
 

MI verdad

Clara, I figured Larisa was debating about taking the money and running. She's not having the termination yet but continues to drink profusely. The lack of money to correct the cleft palate wouldn't be an issue if she took the money. Actually I wouldn't be totally opposed to her having it. No getting out of jail for Amador that way. Daddy made her life harder, though her affair with Iñigo was going on before he ran off. Now Mateo and Iñigo are no longer likely beneficiaries to Eloisa's money ( unless she pops off before she changes the will) I imagine the Castillos won't push so hard for their share. But to redeem her she would give back the money but not push for the pardon. I imagine Luciano wouldn't let his nephew starve. She must have some private means as she still lives in that apartment and doesn't appear to be starving.

I wonder if there is another body near where Ximena was found, Mateo did say he took care of her the same way. I still think the best way would have been to find some wild boars to feed the bodies to (I know, very gross idea). If they raised pigs and not cattle, problem solved.
 

guardian

Clara, Thank you for the interesting info about hipocoristicos. We learn so much from caray!

I finally remember where I have seen the Barbara actress. It was in Vencer el miedo. She is talented as actress and singer!

Thank you again. I had been wondering about Chava, but now it makes sense!

Babachita
 

Mi verdad and Guardian

Looks like I have the next 2 nights off. Yay! The end is in sight. I'll catch up with Guardian. Looks like a few of us are watching it. Moving guardian to the 8 p.m. slot likely picks up new viewers from Mi verdad. You know you have watched a lot of telenovelas when you start wondering where you've seen a previous actor before!
 

Guardian
Blue Lass, thanks for naming the blonde lady in the grey dress who seems to hate Sophia,so much . When I saw Sophias dad bringing her all those shopping bags filled with gifts , I figured she was his mistress since before his wife died . so, now I understand why she and Sophia are not buds.
I am sorting out names ..Diego Klein is Chava ( Salvador ):, and DanielnisFranco .My favorite scene was Franco racing to save Sophia in his plaid boxers . That gave me a giggle.
Barbie is a brat , and she and Franco's daughter (name???) Are not off to a good Start. I dont remember seeing Barbie in anything before .
Franco's wife (name?) still wants him and is already jealous of Sophia's .
Kim (name?) Is already hard at work seducing Sergio (name ?)while her beau (Sophia's chauffer) lurks.
Silva Navarro is chewing up the scenery. Simmer down . Dial it back .
Here we go. Susan
 

Mi Verdad

Thanks Kat, great recap. And two nights off too! I’m looking forward to catching up on the English speaking shows I watch. And checking out Guardian. My tv is not letting me record the whole series so I need to do one episode at a time.

I wouldn’t be surprised if Larisa runs off with the money. I was surprised when Eloisa got so mad and threw Inigo out. So much for Larisa thinking Eloisa might accept this baby as he’s still a blood heir of the family. But Eloisa needs Inigo to save Mateo. Luciano’s immediate family may all be jailed as accomplices to murder. What a nice thought.

Yes, Ximena would still be alive if Zac hadn’t pursued Aitana with such determination. Of if she had listened to them warning her about Mateo and just left. I still don’t understand why Aitana never showed the police the pictures she took in the secret room. Is she trying to keep her involvement low profile because of Luciano.
 

GUARDIAN

Thank you everyone for your comments; although I'm not going to be able to watch this, I enjoyed what you all had to say.

Susan, I believe I have a few answers to your cast questions. Alejandra Ambrosi is Gina, Franco's wife. Roberta Damián plays Remedios "Rex", Franco and Gina's daughter (I don't think I've ever seen her in anything before.)

Paulina Goto plays Barbi (I saw her in Un camino hacia el destino. She was amazing and learned how to play the violin prior to production).

Kim plays Grecia Diamanto; Sergio Sendel plays Gonzalo Balmori-Ricci.

"Silva Navarro is chewing up the scenery. Simmer down . Dial it back". She is the only actor I can think of that I have a very hard time watching simply because of her overacting.

Diana
 

MI VERDAD

Enjoy your two nights off Kat. You deserve it!

Diana
 

Guardian

Diana, thanks for the help with the names . I am disappointed that you won't be watching this show. What new show are you planning to watch?
There are so many actors and actresses that we both know and !like. I thought Franko's daughters name was " Rex" because I heard her say it clearly to Barbie, but it seemed an odd name for a girl. Those girls do not like each other . I think I know most of the names now . Rex's wardrobe is ..interesting .And...
What is up with the oversized leather jackets on Sophia and Barbie and wearing those jackets half on and half off the shoulders ??? QTH??? Susan

 

MI verdad

Kat, thank you for another excellent recap as the writers drag these characters and us to the bitter, bitter end . I am very curious about how the writers will bring this messy mess to an end . Did they have a definite plan from the start or have they been using a "steam of consciousness " approach and just winging it ?
Chris P.( Matteo) has done a good job portraying BSC Matteo. He is handsome and could play a galan , so I hope that he doesn't get locked into being a villain .
Susan
 

Mi verdad

Thanks, Kat.

Loved the almost psychedelic background as Mateo was meandering through the foggy camp. Too bad the other guys just didn’t stab him. I think I would rather see him and Iñigo dead at the end of this rather than in jail. Eloísa would only be a hindrance to Luciano at the end so she needs to die, too, to free hm up. I was happy we didn’t have to see Micaela. Looks like Larissa is ready to make a run for it with the $$. Nice to have 2 days off before we launch into the final four chapters.
 

Where’s HERMANAS?