Caray, Caray!

TAN CERCA DE TI NACE EL AMOR #81 Page 1

Notes from the Couch

1. Nobody can shut Kassandra up as she continues her rant against Vero. She calls Joaquín out for having said he would never tolerate not even one lie. He accused her of betrayal when she found Nuria. Now, Vero is being forgiven for having gotten involved in their lives through deceit and justifying it all with her being Vale's "mother." She made fools of a whole family. Vero has had it as Nico holds her back. She screams for Kassandra to SHUT UP now and not to give her opinion about something she knows nothing about. As Claudia hangs on him, Diego asks if Vero is Vale's mother. Nico asks him to calm done and explains that everything Vero did was to keep her love for Vale silent. Kassandra keeps shouting it is all a lie and a rotten one to boot. If it had been an act of love, Vero would have handled things the right way and not manipulated Vale's heart, played being her confident or her friend. She never would have entered Vale's house. Joaquín asks her if she knows shat she is saying. He will not permit that she continue to sully the many sacrifices that Vero made to be near her daughter with her venom. Kassandra tells Joaquín to open his eyes. This chick found out that Vale was adopted by a family with money. She saw her chance and seduced him. This slut only lives for social climbing via men who can give her something more. Now that she has met Mario, she sees that she can get much more. That is why she told him that he is Vero's father. She doubts that knowing how Vero is. She herself probably doesn't know who the father is. Vero breaks free and slaps Kassandra across the face as she tells her to SHUT UP! Joaquín pushes her back as Vero tells Kassandra that she will not allow her to insult her.

2. Olga has bought a golden heart charm (milagro) and shows it to Majo. She explains that they say to hang it somewhere so love rings your bell. Majo sighs. Olga tells her not to worry. She knows it doesn't make miracles happen especially when the one who you love doesn't care for you. Majo tells her mother that she deserves somebody who truly loves her. That person will come. Olga hopes so because she doesn't want to be alone.

3. Romina wants to know if Iván told Marcos about them. He says he didn't but Marcos was right there in his face. She says he could have hit him. Iván agrees but he didn't because Joaquín arrived and calmed things down. She concludes that everyone must be wondering what is going on with them. Iván smiles and adds that a great love like theirs is hard to hide. They kiss and Olga walks in on them.

4. Renán is skulking around the company offices. He sees the heart charm and literally pockets it. Majo sees him. She asks him what he is doing.

5. Joaquín informs Kassandra that she is done manipulating him nor will she being using Vero to take her frustrations out on. The Vero who he knows, who he is in love with has given everything to be near Vale. She has risked her life and her freedom being the great mother she is. He will not allow her to continue insulting her. He does not want to hear not one more word from her. Kassandra (who must be hard of hearing or not understand Spanish) insists on reminding him that he chose Vero over her and everyone. She swears that he and Vero are going to be sorry and leaves. Diego leaves. Claudia goes after him and Joaquín follows. Lorena and Nico calm Vero down
 

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6. Joaquín catches up with Diego (yes Claudia is still with him) who asks him if it is true that Vero is Vale's real mother and has all this time been lying to all of their faces. Joaquín understands how he feels but he is asking that he not judge Vero. Everything has an explanation. Vero is going to tell Vale. Diego asks why she didn't ever tell her. Joaquín explains that first of all, she didn't want to hurt Vale with the truth. She was waiting for the right moment to tell her but it never arrived. Diego says that Vero abandoned Vale. Vale is going to explode. Joaquín tells him not to believe everything Kassandra says out of her resentment and bitterness. He asks Diego to trust him and the love Vero has had for him and all of his siblings. You cannot fake love and he knows it. He is asking that Meli and Dani not know yet. He wants to let Vero talk with Vale. Joaquín asks him to bring Vale to his office and not to say anything to her. He will get Vero there. Can he do that for him? Diego agrees. Claudia will go with him. Joaquín repeats not a word to Vale and thanks them.

7. Olga asks Romina and Iván how long they have been together because she has been blamed unjustly for breaking up her marriage. Romina makes it clear that she never has been unfaithful to Marcos. Iván says that is true. Romina makes it clear she is not taking revenge on Marcos or anything similar. Olga says that although things between them are not great, she knows she is a good woman. There is nothing to worry about because she is not vengeful either and will not out them. She is really happy for them. That is from her heart. She smiles at Iván. They all smile.

8. Olga demands that Renán show he what he took. He lies saying he wasn't hiding it. It is a gift he bought for her. She tells him not to lie. It belongs to her mother. She grabs it out of his hand and refuses to be treated as if she were stupid. Diego was right about him. She demands to know if he is or isn't the one who had been robbing things. He finally admits it. He says it isn't his fault. He has a problem. Back in Madrid, his mother saw that he went to therapy and he had his good days and his bad days. He could control it but since he has come to Mexico, it is happening again. He is a kleptomaniac and is out of control. (That is a new one!)

9. Vero is now worried about what Diego is going to think of her. Nico and Lorena try to calm her down. Nico tells her to concentrate on Vale. She is all that matters right now and finally she is going to talk to her. Vero is terrified that Vale is going to hate her. Nico reminds her if she is rejected, just give Vale time. Joaquín joins them and tries to lift Vero's spirits, too. They try to convince her this is only the beginning and to have faith. Joaquín decides it is time to go to his office.

10. Vale is horsing around with Eleazar when Diego tells her that Joaquín wants to see her in his office. It is not about her accident and all he can say is that it is important and urgent. She wants to know what is going on but Diego insists he is not at liberty to say. Vale runs for her things as Loose Lips Claudia says to Eleazar that Vale is going to need him more than ever because the world is going to be turned upside down.
 

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11. As Vale heads for Joaquín's office, Mario wants to know how she is doing. She says her leg hurts a bit but she is fine. She says she has to go to Joaquín's office. He and Vero want to talk to her. She doesn't know what it is about only that it is important.

12. Vero has arrived before Joaquín at his office and he is not there but Kassandra is! She is also waiting to talk to him. She is happy to see Vero. She STARTS by saying it is not fair what they have done to her. They have been lying to her all of this time and she, more than anyone else, deserves to know the truth about "Consuelo" or rather Verónica Arellano.

12. As Joaquín and Vero approach his office, they are ambushed by Mario who thinks that he should be included as her father. Vero says she is not including him because she doesn't want to complicate things any more than they are. He says he could have told Vale earlier but he didn't, wanting to give her her space as her mother. He would like the same consideration being her father. She says he told Kassandra everything and she got in her face, she threatened her, and humiliated her in front of everyone. Is that giving her her space? Joaquín says this is not the place to discuss this. Mario wants to go to his office.. .

13. . . .which give Kassandra even more time to give Vale her poisonous version of "the truth" Kassandra tells her that "Consuelo" never existed. The woman who entered her house was Verónica Arellano a journalist from Circuito Capital. From the very beginning, this woman knew exactly what she was doing. Before she ever arrived, she was investigating and making fun of them for months. In tears, Vale asks if she had to do with that horrible article that was published about her father. Kassandra answers that could be. That woman is capable of anything. She points out that she appeared in their lives right when she and her siblings became orphans and were vulnerable. She wanted to see how much they had inherited. Vale strongly disagrees. "Consuelo" is not like that! Kassandra corrects her: her name is Verónica. It was all a strategy to gain her trust. She saw she was vulnerable, broke and she got involved as much as she could so she could manipulate her. Kassandra tells her to realize that it was only a game. Vale blows up and tells her ENOUGH ALREADY. What she is saying is not true. "Consuelo" does love her. Kassandra asks then why did she come into their lives pretending to be someone else. It was because of her.

14. Majo recognizes that Renán has an illness. Renán says he hates it. He came to Mexico because he lost his job in Spain and now he is losing her. She knows it is an addiction and he needs to get psychological help. She offers to help him find somebody to treat him. She says he is her best friend and he is in a country that is not his own. He is not alone. Diego walks in asking what happened. Why did they stop talking when he came in?

15. Vale is crying saying she cannot believe that "Consuelo " would lie to them like that. She loved her. Kassandra tells her not to let herself to be manipulated by that woman any more. Vale asks what did she want with her. Kassandra says she was looking for HER because Verónica Arellano is her biological mother. Vale shakes her head and cries as Kassandra smiles.
 

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16. Still in the hall, Vero is telling Mario ONE MORE TIME that she is going to talk to Vale alone. She will not discuss the matter with him because she is her mother. She carried her in her womb for nine months and she lost her. She has dealt with this for 18 years and she will tell her daughter who she is looking her in the eye. Mario wants to plead his case again. She refuses to listen. It is not a debate and he nor anyone else gets to decide! He wants her to know he didn't tell Kassandra about Vale. He is not that irresponsible. What he did was ask Kassandra for a divorce because she is the love of his life. Joaquín is standing behind Vale and looks like he cannot take anymore after hearing this. Mario is going to fight for her. Joaquín steps up and says nobody is going to fight for Vero. She is not a trophy. (YAY) Mario says he is not fighting with him. Joaquín wants him to treat Vero with respect. Mario tries to explain that he and Vale share the same story, the same wound and now the same truth. Vero answers NO, NO and NO. She tells Mario not to get confused. Mario wants to be with her and get back what they lost. Joaquín stops him and reminds him that Vero is HIS partner and HIS future. She has chosen him. He isn't going to allow Mario to manipulate her any more. Vale repeats ONE MORE TIME that she is there to talk to her daughter and tell her the truth. She stands by Joaquín. Her heart has chosen and Mario has to accept it is not him

17. Diego sees Majo is nervous and wants to know what is going on between them. Majo tells him to tell Diego. Renán lies and says he has family issues back in Spain. His mother is sick. Majo is the only person he has there. Majo looks disappointed and angry. Diego says when she is done to come and see him. He needs her too. He is having some serious family matters he is dealing with, too. Renán decides to back to work. Diego tells Majo he knows the "sick mother" story is a lie. He asks her what is going on.

18. Vale is screaming NO as Kassandra repeats that her domestic worker turned out to be her mother. She is that woman who abandoned her years ago without looking back. She never cared for her until she became an heir. Vale tells her to be quiet. She and Vero were friends and she thought that she loved her. Kassandra explains all that love was a coldly calculated hoax. She found out that her family had money. She wants to take it all. That is why she got involved with her godfather. Vale refuses to believe that Vero is like that. Kassandra insists that she doesn't know her. She has been fooling her all this time. She took advantage of her and played with her feelings and her need for a mother. As Vale sobs, a smiling Kassandra drives home the point that she does not love her.

19. Majo says he is right. Renán is not having problems with his mother. She cannot tell him what is wrong because it is very personal. He has no other friends. She wants Diego to know there is nothing between her and Renán. She loves Diego. He is her novio. Renán is her friend. He asks if they are novios AGAIN. She says they never stopped being novios. He looks like he likes hearing that and they kiss. Majo asks about his family problem. Diego says Vale is talking to her biological mother and Majo will never guess who it is.
 

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20. Vale has tired of Mario and his insistence and has decided to go talk to her daughter which is what she should have done in the first place. He asks her not to cut him out. She says she isn't. She is only asking him not to force things froVale's sake.

21. Vale collects herself and goes into Joaquín's office and Vale is no longer there.

22. Vale is racing trying to clear her head after thinking about everything that Kassandra told her. She gets off her motorcycle, gets on her knees and slams her helmet into the dirt over and over again in her desperation. Hugo sees her and hugs her.

23. While enjoying some ice cream, Dani tells Bruno that tomorrow her aunt Nuria is taking them on vacation for several days. He asks her not to forget him because if she did he would have to start singing sad songs the the neighbors would be complaining. Dani says she is going to write him so much every day that he will be sick of her. He would love to see the sea. He has only been to Xochimilco (floating gardens in Mexico City) and a real cool spa in Puebla. he has only seen the sea on TV. She swears she will take him some day. He suddenly looks at her differently. Imagine the two of them sitting on the sand watching the sea! He is ready to pack his flip flops. He asks his "princess " if she would like to be his novia. She says yes! They kiss.

24. While Nayeli gives her a manicure, Consuelo is telling her about the lovely words Aurelio said at her sister's tomb They are sure that Beatriz has given them her approval to have a relationship. Consuelo asks if she is embarrassed to have a mother who is so much in love. Nayeli says no. Love doesn't have an expiration date. She spent her whole life loving him in silence. She deserves a bit of happiness. She wonders if Romina and Vale will be angry. Nayeli says on the contrary, they will have a party and she will be the first one dancing there. Nayeli tells her mother she deserves it because she is the best mother in the world!

25. Carmen appears at the beauty shop and greets Nayeli. She asks if this woman is her mother and not Consuelo. She explains that Hugo said something about the situation to her. Smiling she says that she came because Nayeli and Hugo are going to have a child who will be her grand nephew. She wants to be close to them because they are family! All three women smile.

26. The three woman are enjoying some refreshments outside when Joaquín appears with Vero. He asks Carmen what she is doing there. She tells him that she knows all about everything. She tells Vero that she knows that Vale is her daughter. Vero says that she loves her and all of the kids with her whole heart. She never lied about that. Carmen knows that. She is not blind and saw how much she loved the kids and everyone but she made a mistake. She should have told Vale the truth from the beginning if she wanted to be close to her because it is going to be very difficult if not impossible to make things right now. Joaquín announces that Vero is determined to talk to Vale but they do not know where she is. Consuelo says her daughter is waiting for her in her house. Nayeli says Hugo found her crying a river and brought her there so they could talk. Consuelo let her in. Vale only wants to talk to her.
 

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27.Vero walks into her house where Hugo is holding Vale's hand. Hugo gets up and Vero thanks him for bringing Vale. He says it was the least he could do. He will be outside. He asks Vale to listen to what Vero has to tell her.

28. Vero sits down across from Vale as Vale tells her it was all lie: her name, her life, Nayeli being her cousin and not her daughter. Vero says that Nayeli is the real Consuelo's daughter. Vale explodes in the face of so many lies. Vero tells her the lies end today. Vale says only because Joaquín is forcing her to tell the truth and because Kassandra had the courage to open her eye. Vero, in tears, says that she can only imagine what Kassandra told her because she hates her and would do whatever she could to hurt her. Vero explains she is there in front of her to tell her the whole truth with no mask and no fake name. Vale says Fine, VERONICA, talk!

29. At the shop, Aurelio, sporting a bruised lip, tells Marcos he is tired of finding out only bits and pieces of what is going on. He is no saint but he isn't blind either. He wants to know what Marcos did that caused his daughter to leave him. Marcos says he cheated on her with another woman. Aurelio is angry. Marcos admits he made a mistake but he loves Romina with his whole heart. He swears he does. Olga is there out of sight but overhears the conversation. Aurelio says you do not do that to a woman and especially to his daughter who did everything for him. Marcos agrees BUT IT WASN'T HIS FAULT. It was an evil woman's fault because she was provoking him. (What a tool!) Olga is shocked with what she is hearing. She was drawing him in and confusing him. She was the worst misfortune that could have ever crossed his path. Aurelio confronts him about it being HER fault and not his. How convenient! Aurelio believed in them and thought that their marriage could be saved but MARCOS destroyed it and threw it in the garbage. He failed to keep his word, failed his wife and the home she created for him. Romina doesn't deserve that, she doesn't want him around and neither does he. Aurelio tells him to stay away from Romina because if he doesn't, he will have to deal with him.

30. Kassandra hears a knock on the door and opens it only to find an infuriated Mario who grabs her and pushes her across the room. He reminds her that he warned her not to get involved in the Vero situation. She says she did nothing. Vero started the scandal. She only told the truth. He disagrees saying that she only said what could destroy Vero. He calls her an imbecile. Kassandra complains that Vero took Joaquín from her and now he prefers her, too. He asked her for a divorce because of Vero. She asks him if she does not have reasons to hate her. He says she has no idea what damage she is causing. Her hatred is going to destroy Vale his daughter. Kassandra goes on complaining that nobody defended her when Vero took everything from her and how it hurt her. She asks if he wants her to just shut up while Vero destroys her more time. She wants Vero to hurt the way she has hurt her. Mario grabs her by the neck and slams her against the wall. As he chokes her, he warns her not to put herself at Vero's level. Vero is not like her. He tells her not to get involved in Vero's misery. He has lifted her off the floor as she begs him to let her go. He finally does and she ends up on the floor.
 

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31. Consuelo prays to the Virgin for her Vero and Carmen prays for her Vale.

32. Vero admits to Vale that she lied and that she made many mistakes but one thing that was never a mistake is the love she has for her. That love is the only thing that has kept her alive because she gave birth to her from her womb. She is her daughter. Vale screams that she abandoned her as if she were nothing, a piece of garbage. Vero says things were not like that. She was a little girl herself, a teenager who had no support. She didn't have a voice or the right to decided absolutely anything. The day Vale was born, she was torn from her arms and she couldn't defend her. She searched for her for 17 years on her own and never stopped loving her. Never.

FIN
 

TAN CERCA

Wow! Lots happened tonight. More mañana!
 

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Jarifa, another masterpiece, impeccably conveyed. It was verbal carnage, blow by blow raining down on unsuspecting, literally lamb led to the slaughter, Vale. There is nothing I can add to your masterful rendition.

You vividly captured the crushing and devastating confrontation, numbing Vale to the core. The omission of truth and absence of trust now laid bare by a hateful, vengeful scorned woman, in the most extraordinarily painful way possible.

Vero had so many chances to come forward and speak her truth in a rationale, loving but regretful and repentant manner. Opportunities squandered, culminating in a savage diatribe. How will Vero even begin to counteract the shock and manner in which her daughter has learned a painful mixture of truth and lies?

"Vale screams that she abandoned her as if she were nothing, a piece of garbage. Vero says things were not like that. She was a little girl herself, a teenager who had no support. She didn't have a voice or the right to decided absolutely anything. The day Vale was born, she was torn from her arms and she couldn't defend her. She searched for her for 17 years on her own and never stopped loving her. Never". If there is any hope, it is to be found in these stunning, powerful words...

Jarifa, thank you.

Diana
 

Tan cerca,
Jarifa,, thank you so much for another excellent account of every tragic moment.
Irina,( Kass) has certainly become better and and better at being a hateful villain. I have seen her in several shows , and she has been above and beyond evil in this role .

Mario.is a violent man. I can't see how he will survive. He has to be out of Vero and Vale's lives.

Vale has a good friend in Hugo, but she will end up with Eleazer.

Yaneli , Hugo, and bebe =HEA Carmen and Consists will be doting abuelas.
Susan


 

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Jarifa: Kassandra needs to STFU!
 

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Diana, Yes, Vero could not expect anything else from Vale due to her continual postponing of the inevitable. I did enjoy "kleptomania " being the "illness of choice" in the novela. Something different for once.

Susan , I liked that Carmen sought out Nayeli and Consuelo. I am sorry we have not have seen more of Nayeli and Hugo together because it sure seems that they are.

Steve, yes Kassandra better watch it.
 

Tan Cerca

Thanks Jarifa, all I can saw is Wow to the episode and your recap. Kassandra outdid herself with her hate filled speeches. And she delighted in hurting Vale. I’ve never seen her in anything else, that I know of, but how dis she hide all that hate. The crazy part is Vero doesn’t even want Mario.

I was so mad when they kept arguing with Mario in the hall. They shouldn’t have sent for Vale until they were in the office! Loved Joaquin saying “she’s not a trophy”. Hopefully tonight Vale will forgive her, but who knows, it took the whole episode before Vero and Vale talked.

I wonder who Romina will end up with. Right now it looks like it will be Ivan. Are we supposed to like him and be rooting for him. Because I don’t think he’s very likable. And I can’t see Marcos with Olga.

I liked how Majo discovered Diego was right about the thief. Announcing the gift for her when her mom just showed it to her was a gentle way to catch the thief.
 

Tan Cerca

Jarifa, excellent work. I've had a good time reliving last night's epi through your storytelling. Kass's "poisonous version of "the truth": I was awed how Kass managed to twist all of her Vale's well-intentioned acts into evil. If I didn't know Vale better, I would wonder...

I'm not buying Renan's klepto claim. Couldn't he get the psych in Spain to give him a referral to one in Mexico if he really was getting treatment?

Nice to see Carmen outside of work. (Seems Meli was Home Alone though!)
 

Tan cerca,
Niecie, maybe worse than being home alone, poor Meli was home with nutty Nuria. Susan
 

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Liz, " I was so mad when they kept arguing with Mario in the hall. They shouldn’t have sent for Vale until they were in the office." That drove me crazy, too. She just could have gotten up and left after waiting for so long and not because of crazy Kassandra.

Niecie, "I was awed how Kass managed to twist all of her Vale's well-intentioned acts into evil. If I didn't know Vale better, I would wonder..." She was slick wasn't she? She had an angle for everything.

Susan, where have you seen Irena Baeva before? I do not remember her from anything but she is a great villain.
 

Corage episode 11

I had out of town company last night ( college friends introduced to each other who are still married 41 plus years ago) so I watched episode 11 this evening. Rogelio shot the horse! Jacquie looked like she was going to cry. She was also spilling out of her crop halter type top with her buxom bosum.

Estrella and Clara were dressed in much more flattering outfits, imo. I'm getting tired of the sibling rivalry in the pursuit of Clara. Lalo is in lala land thinking he has a chance with her (he also has a permanent snear on his face imo), is especially annoying. A 28 year old thesis advisor? is not going to have a relationship with a 21 or 22 year old, that is totally unethical.

Hero wears a permanent smirk and is equally annoying, especially as he seems to only want to sell the ranch and get his share of the money. I guess this is why primogeniture was so popular. It keeps an estate intact.

Rogelio wants to use the sibling rivalry over clara to his advantage to drive a wedge bet them. He offered Juan a watch, was it a Rolex? He seemed to think it was a suitable gift for Juan saving his daughter. Juan refused at first but jero said something that made him agree to keep it.

Meanwhile falcon has sent or hired one of the corage hands, Toño I think, to sow discord in the ranch hands by alluding to the likelihood that they won't be paid in a timely manner now that the brothers are in charge.

That's the short summary. I'm looking forward to Blue Lass and her comments. They are better than the show.


 

Corage, excuse the typos, I do this on my phone so I miss a lot of the autocorrect things, or I'll start a sentence thinking how I'll write it, then change my mind as to where I'm going with my train of thought and it becomes a bit garbled!
 

TAN CERCA DE TI, NACE EL AMOR #82 Page 1

(The huggiest novela I have ever seen)

Notes from the Couch

1.Vero, in an ill fitting tee shirt and sweater explains to Vale that she he became pregnant at 15, a kid the same age as Dani is now. Her parents gave Vale away for adoption. They tore her from he arms. She had no choice because she had no voice. They broke her. From that moment on and for every minute of her life, she has been wondering where she was, if she was fine, if she was cold, if somebody was hugging her. Vale is who she loves the most in this world because she is her mother. She became a journalist because she thought that was the only way she was going to find her. Every investigation, every file, every door she knocked on was a way to look for her. She was not sleeping, not eating but constantly looking for her looking for a clue, just one. Right before her mother died, she told her the name of the orphanage she had left her at and that is where she discovered that she had been adopted by Luis and Susana Miranda. She spoke with Susana who listened to her and believed her. She told Susana exactly what she told her now. Susana loved her so much and she was going to help her get to know her without hurting her but before that happened, Susana and Luis died. Everything went down from there.

2. Outside, Nayeli, Hugo and Joaquín are back at the table where Hugo tells Joaquín that he didn't know what else to do. Vale was falling apart, trembling and couldn't stop crying. He calmed her down as much as he could and begged her to come with him to talk to Vero. That is why he brought her. Joaquín says he doesn't know how grateful he is for what he did. Hugo then drops the bomb: Vale told him that Kassandra talked to her. Joaquín is not happy hearing that. Kassandra has no limits. It wasn't enough for her to destroy Vero and now she wants to destroy Vale's life. Hugo comments that Vale didn't tell him what she told her but from what he saw, it destroyed her.

3. From the floor and now rubbing her neck, Kassandra continues to plead her case to Mario. She says that woman has had him obsessed fro 20 years. Mario crouching down to her level says that is how it is. Vero is the love of his life. Kassandra concludes that he is going to destroy her HIS WIFE because of Vero. She is the woman who helped him become a partner at Joaquín's company. He informs her she was merely an agreement, a deal, a transaction and now she is not even that. She gets up as he says he is only going to ask her something ONCE and she had better answer. He gets in her face and asks who told her that Vale is Vero's daughter? She insists she is not going to answer as her grabs her around the neck again and begins to choke her. He threatens her telling her that she is going to wish she had never been born if she doesn't talk. He roughly releases her and she confesses that Marcos told her. He grabs her arm and reminds her that if she messes with Vero or with Vale even if it be with only one word, he himself will put an end to her. He himself! Kasandra is left rubbing her sore neck.
 

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4. Vero continues saying that when she found out that her parents had died, she came running. She needed to know she wasn't alone, that she existed, and that she had a mother who loved her. That night she saw her leave her house and followed her. We see Vale talking to Vero about her biological mother and how she abandoned her as if she were a piece of garbage. Vero understood everything and decided that she could not tell her the truth without destroying her even more. Vale was not ready. She had to heal from something that she had caused. So when she saw that her household was looking for a domestic worker, she didn't think twice. She applied for the job. She didn't want to deceive or take advantage of her. She only wanted to be near her, to take care of her and to hug her without her knowing who she was. She wanted nothing in exchange only that she would come to know her and care for her a little bit so that some day she could tell her the truth to her face. That day is today. She tells Vale that she is her mother.

5. Romina arranges a meeting with Marcos. She has been thinking about the two of them. He says that he has been, too. She says that they cannot go on with the tension that is between them. He agrees. She admits that in spite of it all, she still cares for him. He smiles saying that he feels the same way. His smile disappears as she says for that very reasons and so that they do not continue hurting each other, she wants a divorce.

6. Vero says that is her story, their story. She asks Vale to say something and Vale says she always trusted her. Vero knows. Vale demands to know who her father is. Vero tells her it is Mario Nolivos. Vale is shocked. Vero explains that he never knew she was pregnant. She hadn't seen him again until Kassandra's wedding. He has just found out about all of this himself. Vero knows that she did everything the wrong way. She goes to touch Vale and she pulls away. Vale says YES she did everything the wrong way. She deceived her. Vero says she truly loves her and that is why she defended her, took care of her and loved her because she does love her. She is her daughter. Vale explodes. She is not her daughter. She is nothing to her. Her mother was Susana who died in an accident. She doesn't have a mother.

7. Nico is bringing Lorena and Claudia to introduce them to the family at Consuelo's. Consuelo invites them to sit and offers them something to drink. Joaquín takes Elezar and Diego to the side. Eleazar says Hugo texted him that Vale was there. Diego is concerned about his sister. Joaquín says she is inside talking with Vero. Diego is worried how she is reacting to everything. Joaquín says they have to be with her. She needs them now more than ever. Diego still cannot believe that all this time that woman was rubbing that lie in their face.Vale will never forgive her. Joaquín is quick to explain that Vero never acted out of cruelty. She never tried to hurt them. She did it out of love, out of fear and out of a desperate fear to get her daughter back without destroying her again. He agrees with Diego that they should be afraid of what could happen.
 

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8. Vale is in full attack mode telling a sobbing Vero to get it in her head that she is not her mother and has no idea what it is to have a mother's heart. Vero is desperate and goes to touch her and we hear the legendary NO ME TOQUES! (Don't touch me!)Vale explains that a family are those who fight for you, who are there every day with you sharing your life. It has nothing to do with blood. Her heart belongs ot Luis and Susana. They were her parents, her only parents and she loves them, her siblings and her godfather but her??? She feels nothing for her. She is nothing to her. She is only the lady who gave birth to her and abandoned her. Vale pleads her case. She was forced into what happened. They tore her away from her. Vale screams why didn't she FIGHT??? Vero screams back that she couldn't. She was 15. Vero asks her that question again. Vero answers that she didn't have the strength. She apologizes but she was a child. She never stopped thinking about her not even for even a second. Vale tells her that she has arrived late, too late. She no longer needs her and she doesn't love her.

9. A moist eyed Romina tells a crying Mario that she feels that is what they have to do. It is for the best. She knows he still wants to keep trying but they have been doing that for months. Marcos insists that he is still in love with her. She knows but she no longer loves him. He brings up that she just said that she cares for him. Romina says that love is something else. Their situation has nothing to do with Olga. He knows. Their love had been extinguishing itself way before that situation. She doesn't want him to feel guilty either. She doesn't hate or resent him. It's both of them. It hurts her, too, but it is the truth and they have to ger a divorce.

10. Iván brings up Olga finding somewhere else to live given their situation. She gets it, agrees and hopes that he is very happy with Romina. He notices how much she has changed and thanks her. She says that he has changed, too. She suggests that maybe they are growing up. He cannot deal with that and hopes Majo doesn't hear her. They both have a good laugh. She asks if he will miss her. He says of course! They have a good hug.

11. Vale is still on the attack. She says that Vero appeared in her house just when she became an orphan. She wanted to see how much money she could get out of them. All of her "tenderness" was fake. She wanted to establish her place and it didn't matter how she did it. Everything she did was calculated. Vero denies that. Vale adds that if she were that important to her and interested in her, why did she get involved with her godfather. Vero says she fell in love. She wasn't looking for it and he also loves her. Vale thinks that is because he is too innocent and doesn't know everything that she does about her. She says she looks at her and can only feel anger and pain. She doesn't believe anything about Vale not even her tears. She knew a "Consuelo" but doesn't know her. She doesn't want to see her again. She storms out as vale calls after her.
 

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12. Vale walks out into the family get together screaming at Joaquín that he lied to her, too. He wants a chance to explain things to her. She cannot take that he knew Vero was deceiving her but said nothing about it. She runs off yelling that nobody told her the truth. Eleazar and Diego go after her. They catch up to her and Eleazar takes her into his arms. He and Diego let her know that they are there for her. She asks Eleazar to get her out of there.

13. (IMHO Best scene of the night) Out of nowhere and strolling along, a smiling enthusiastic Aurelio with his split lip addresses Vale with a "Look at who we have in the neighborhood!! It is the number one racer!! " All three of them stare at Aurelio. He asks if Vale is okay.

14. Joaquín and Consuelo go to help Vero who is collapsed on the floor still crying. She tells them that she told Vale the truth and that she hates her. Joaquín reminds her that they knew it might go like this but it isn't the end. She begs him to take care of Vale. She loves him. Consuelo says he can go and she will take care of Vero. He reminds Vero that none of this changes that she is Vale's mother. It is pain speaking not a rejection. He is going to see about Vale and he asks Vero not to give up. She has to fight to get her back.

15. Aurelio tells Vale to answer him. Are these guys bothering her? She says no "don" Aurelio. She asks what he is doing there. He chuckles saying that he lives in this neighborhood. She asks if he knows Vero. he says of course! She is his daughter, Romina's sister. That surprise makes Vale tell Eleazar that she cannot take any more. She wants to leave and they do.

16. Aurelio has no idea what is going on as Joaquín comes looking for Vale. Diego says she is with Eleazar and to let her go. Aurelio asks Joaquín if somebody can fill him in with what is going on. Joaquín says he will explain it all. Romina arrives and wants know what's up. Joaquín says Vero talked to Vale and it didn't go well. Aurelio asks again what is going on. Romina informs him that Vale is Vero's daughter and his granddaughter.

17. Consuelo is consoling Vero telling her that she took the first step. She now needs to give Vale time. Vero disagrees. Her daughter wants nothing to do with her. She assures her that Vale was talking out of pain but she is will come around and realize how much she loves her. Consuelo says the hardest part has began but there is the "call if the blood" and there is nothing that a that a mother's love cannot cure.
 

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18. A smiling Aurelio is telling Romina and Nico that when he met that girl (Vale) he liked her so much and she felt so familiar and close that he even thought she was Nico's daughter. Nico remembers him being in front of his granddaughter without knowing it. Aurelio asks why he didn't say anything to him. He says because he was tied by the rules of the confessional. He angrily asks Romina why she didn't tell him. She answers that it wasn't hers to tell. Also, they all were afraid of how he was going to react. He was the one who rejected her from the day she was born. Romina leaves.

19. Outside at the table, Carmen tells Joaquín that now it looks like Nuria won't be able to take her nieces and nephew on vacation. The vacation is news to Joaquín. Carmen explains that Nuria is taking them on vacation tomorrow.

20. The Countess has arrived at Iván's dressed for a formal evening out. She is chatting with Majo about her emerald necklace until Iván arrives. The necklace belonged to her great grandmother who was a part of Portuguese royalty. It has been passed on from woman to woman in the family as part of their royal legacy. Majo is impressed. It is an antique. The Countess says it is more than that it is part of the family's heritage. It is invaluable not for its price but for its history.

21. Iván arrives and is surprised to see the Countess. He asks what she is doing there. She says that she came early and took advantage of the opportunity to get to know his daughter better. She is a delight! Majo leaves them. He says it isn't good for her to stop by without notifying him first. She reminds him that they have a social obligation this evening or has he forgotten?? He promised to accompany her to the embassy supper. She isn't asking for his life, only one evening. Given all that has happened, it is the least he can do. Right?

22. Romina has now joined Consuelo in caring for Vero. Consuelo tells her how kids are sometimes filled with rage because their hearts hurt. They say things that hurt them as parents but the love of a mother is tough, it's brave and it's wise. Romina has news. She told Marcos she wants a divorce. They all hug.

23. Marcos is quick to move on and has called Olga to meet him at restaurant. He thanks her for coming. She says she wouldn't refuse a glass of wine. He admits she was right . His marriage was going to hell and he was blaming her. The truth is that things with Romina were going badly way before her. It is hard for him to say things but he does accept that he didn't behave well with her and now he realizes the woman he is losing. He is doing really badly and asks her to forgive him. Please. Being honest, she doesn't know if he deserves it but ends up forgiving him. She asks him if that's it.
 

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24. Joaquín now has Vero in his arms as she feels guilty for making Vale suffer. He tells her enough of punishing herself. Vale is processing it all and it hurts but she is not alone. She is with Eleazar who loves her. Vero is worried she will lose Vale forever. Joaquín says that although Vale doesn't know it, their souls are united. He tells her not to lose hope. She can count on him to see them through. Eleazar calls. Vale isn't doing well but she is with him at his house. He will not leave her alone. Joaquín says he is coming over.

25. When Vale hears that Joaquín is coming over, she reminds Eleazar that she told him that she didn't want to see anyone. He says he is her godfather. She doesn't care and decides she is leaving. He grabs her and will not let her leave in the state she is in. He will not let something happen to her. She needs to be with people who love her. He hugs her.

26. Marcos in his peculiar style tells Olga that he knows that she is a woman but sometimes she acts like she has a loose screw or as if it has fallen out. She find that to be a strange compliment. He agrees but she knows how he is. He is a beast. He moves closer. She asks why did he want to see her. Did something happen? He thinks back to Romina asking him for the divorce and chooses not to tell Olga. Rather, he says he was just in this ugly dark spot and wants to be okay. She thinks the important thing is that he wants to be okay together. Breathing heavily, she asks what else can she do to make him feel better. He kisses her. It takes no time at all for them to go back to his place and have sex.

27. Now Vero is telling Aurelio how Vale hates her and how she lost her forever. Aurelio says it isn't her fault but his because he took the baby from her arms. Vero disagrees. It has always been easier to blame him than herself because she should have fought harder but she was afraid of him, terrified of him so she didn't confront him. Now she hates herself. Vale will never forgive her. He tells her she cannot give up fighting for her daughter. She thinks it is too late. He insists it isn't because he swears that he is going to help her get Vale back. He will not disappoint her this time. She hugs him.

28. Joaquín talks to Vale who wants to know why he didn't say anything. He answers that she had to know from Vero. Next, she asks how long he knew. He says for several months. He explains that Vero confessed everything to him when they fell in love. She didn't want to start a relationship based on a lie. He understands how Vale feels because he felt betrayed and angry when he first found out. Then he heard Vero's story and found out what she had lived and suffered through and he understood that she had spent her whole life searching for her. When Vero finally found her, whether her actions were correct or clumsy, they were all done out of love, the immense love she feels for her.
 

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29. Vero insists that Vale was right. She is the only one who was responsible. Aurelio insists it was his fault. He was her father. He made her obey. She repeats that she should have fought harder but was afraid of him. She is a coward. Even when she had Vale in front of her, she lied to her. Romina says it was a simple act of desperation and Aurelio tells her not to be so hard on herself. He says Vale is hurt but. . Vero sees no room for "buts." Vale has kicked her out of her life and she has to respect her decision. She deserves Vale's decision. Aurelio hugs her and cries.

30. Vale starts to quote Kassandra to Joaquín. He reminds her how Kassandra is and how she hates and resents Vero. What she told her was to hurt and confuse her and to ruin the relationship she already had with her mother. Vale still insists it was all a lie, a farce. Joaquín disagrees. Vero came to be near the daughter that was taken from her when she could not defend herself. Vale says if her intentions were good she would have been honest from the beginning. He asks if she really believes that Vero didn't want to tell her the truth or didn't try. It was Vale's hatred towards her biological mother that was so deep and ferocious that the times that Vero tried to bring up the topic, she hit a wall. Vales suddenly looks sad. Joaquín adds that Vero was terrified of losing her and being rejected which is what happened today. Vale switches to another Kassandra argument. Vero didn't come for her but came for her money! Joaquín disagrees and can understand how she could be taken in by what Kassandra said but Vero is her mother and she loves her. He suggests she give Vero a chance. She insists that she doesn't want anything to do with her.

31. Aurelio insists he is the only one to blame. Romina finally tells them both ENOUGH already. (Thank you, Romina) She says the only important thing is that they have a family to put back together. She knows that Vale doesn't want to know anything about them now because she is hurt and has to assimilate what she has learned. Vero starts in again about how Vale will never forgive her. Romina thinks that they will find the way to move closer to her little by little. Sooner or later, Vale is going to want to know things. They are her family. Vero remarks she is such an optimist. Romina believes that there is still hope. Vale also has a big heart. Vero asks her sister to respect Vale's wishes. She also asks her not to say anything at the company. Aurelio says of course she will see her at work. Romina has no idea of how she will react to her. She probably will get really angry. Vero asks Romina to take care of Vale no matter what.She will.

32 The next morning, Joaquín gives Vale a ride home. She is still feeling bad. She says it isn't fair. It ruined her life. He asks her not to see it like that. She thinks won't be able to get over this. He assures her that she will because she is not alone. She has her siblings, Carmen and him and they all love her. She smiles and tells him she loves them all, too. They all are her family. He reminds her that will never change. All he is asking is not to forget that Vero also loves her with her whole heart. She will always be waiting for her. Vale doesn't want to talk about her. He says whatever she wants is fine. He will not pressure her. It is time to go inside the house . ..

FIN
 

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A few thoughts

I enjoyed the conversation with Iván and Olga about her moving out.
Sure didn't take much for Olga to end up rolling in the hay with Marcos
I was surprised the Countess made an appearance. Why this close to the end?
After being choked so much, Kassandra should have a black and blue neck at least.
I liked Joaquín telling Vale that Vero might have told her she was her mother earlier if she had not heard about her hatred for her bio mom.It sort of took some of the wind out of her sails.
Of course , I already mentioned my favorite scene with Aurelio just bouncing into the emotional turmoil as I mentioned in the text.

More mañana.
 

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Jarifa, thank you for superbly relaying the highlights and (mostly) lowlights of this sad and sobering episode.

We knew the "reckoning" was going to be brutal, but this was pure carnage. Kassandra, brimming with raw hate, was unrelentingly cruel choosing her words carefully as she imparted a mix of truths and lies to an unsuspecting, gobsmacked Vale. Feeling cornered and emotionally shattered, she took her outrage and anger out on Vero, who looked like she was withering away under Vale's unrelenting sneers and snarls. Vale looked at her mother as though she was something that crawled out from under a rock. Her attack was brutal; Vero looked as though she was physically collapsing..

Joaquin, Diego and Eleazar will be instrumental in helping Vale find her forgiveness although that is a very rocky road not to be traversed easily.

On a much lighter note, my absolute favorite line (of many) was "(IMHO Best scene of the night) Out of nowhere and strolling along, a smiling enthusiastic Aurelio with his split lip addresses Vale with a "Look at who we have in the neighborhood!! It is the number one racer!! " Yup, completely oblivious, lost in his own little world, that scene was perfect! I am glad though that Aurelio has finally acknowledged all of his mistakes. Making amends will be a tall order but it seems his heart is now in the right place.

I really did want Marcos and Romina to reconcile but it was clear Romina had a change of heart. Marcos and Olga and Romina and Ivan all seem mismatched to me, but what do I know? Why is the countess hanging on and around; Ivan is hardly irresistible!

Poor Consuelo's party to "meet the family" could certainly have been better timed! Huge drama all the way around.

Jarifa, a stellar job start to finish. Thank you, thank you.

Diana
 

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Jarifa, you caught and delivered every dramatic turn of events.
Diana, I always love your well constructed comments which usually reflect what I am also thinking.
The wheels are coming off the bus as we reel and rock to the finale .
I do not care for the actress portrait Vale . watching her these last few episodes ...uff.
I have no idea what the writers are going to do with Rom, Marcos, Olga, and Ivan and no longer care . They have been playing with us and have ruined this storyline for me . That is,a shame. As for the Countessa..maybe this actress was given a job. I don't get why new characters were added Willy nilly toward the end.

The actors portraying Hugo and Eleazer Seem destined to have galan roles in the future.. They have both been excellent. Must dash now...
Susan


 

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Jarifa, ha..just had to say that Vero's ill fitting sweater and top bothered me !!!
Susan
 

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Diana, your "We knew the "reckoning" was going to be brutal, but this was pure carnage." said it all from one end to the other! "Poor Consuelo. . . " indeed. She is such a good heart. As always, looking forward to tonight.

Loose ends? Any more we can add?

Nuria (and the trip)
Mario (and the Miranda share of the company being in his name)also: Anvil?
Kassandra Anvil?
Vale/Rebeca: Sisters!
Vero/Vale (Aurelio and Romina) Family!
Vero/Joaquín wedding?
Joaquín still living in a hotel. . .
Joaquín confronting Iván about the money he stole from the company?
 

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Jarifa, you have kept track of these storylines , but I wonder if the writers have lost focus.. I have a feeling that they got careless as this show moved forward and that some of these things will not be resolved . Did the writers change midstream ? Susan
 

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Thanks Jarifa, what a great blow by blow of all the events from last night. The kids never liked Kassandra but now Vale takes her word for everything. The money part was crazy, Nuria apparently controls the purse strings as everyone should be finding out soon.

I was really disappointed to see Marcos and Olga in bed. I’ve kind of lost hope in Romina and Marcos. And Ivan goes off with the countess for the evening. And he’s living comfortably in his brother’s house while Joaquin is in a hotel. That’s really crazy. Ivan will always be a loser to me. Olga too!

Well Vale reacted as we knew she would. It got tiresome for me. I agree, that Aurelio walking nonchalantly up to them on the street was the best scene of the night-priceless!

There’s still a lot to resolve, starting with Nuria’s trip/kidnapping, which should happen tonight. And I want all Kassandra’s and Mario’s evil deeds to be exposed. He won’t become father of the year with Vale!
 

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Terrific list Jarifa. It will be fun to see how the unexpected family pairings will work out...

It will be interesting to see if Joaquin and Vero do end up getting married at the end; there seems so much collateral damage to clean up first, doesn't there?

I would add seeing if Nayeli and Hugo tie the knot. Perhaps (gulp) even Aurelio and Consuelo? Now THAT would be something!

Yes, Ivan stealing the money and not returning it always bothered me.

Anvil for Isaura? It will be well deserved.

Will Hugo finally disengage himself from Claudia?

What is the countess hiding? I don't buy her act.

Will Renan stay or go? Do we care?? LOL. :)

Susan, I agree with you that the writers veered a bit off track at the end. I don't think all the loops will be closed either but I'm not sure exactly what ones they will be.

Diana
 

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Susan, I have no idea who the writers were for this one. Never got that far into it. I am happy now that Vero can wear clothes that fit her better than that top and sweater. Great minds think alike..

Liz, great point: "Well Vale reacted as we knew she would. It got tiresome for me" Me, too. I am so glad we are done with that episode. I wonder if Oka Giner (Vero) got sick of crying when filming this episode.

Diana, thank you for adding to the list. Nope, don't care about Renán at all. He is so obnoxious. Aurelio and Consuelo should tie the knot after all of those decades of longing. Isaura? Maybe she will end up having to actually work for a living. Lorena always needs servers. . . LOL


The writers have sure kept novela moving along until the bitter end. My hat is off to them. Now let us see how they end it. I wonder if they will do a time jump. I sort of hope they do.
 

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Notes from the Comfy Couch fall edition

1. Joaquín brings Vale home the next morning where everyone greets her except for Nuria who is out. She isn't doing well and spent the night at the hotel where Joaquín is living. Meli asks why "Consuelo" didn't come with them. She misses her a lot as well as Dani who wanted to say goodbye to her before they went on vacation. Joaquín informs them that the trip will not be possible. He has to talk to Nuria. Carmen says she went out very early. He will talk to her later. Meli and Dani notice that Vale looks sad. Vale invites her siblings to her room to talk.

2. Vero gets a text from Joaquín. Vale is with him. He sends her his love. It means so much to her. She asks him to take care of Vale. She loves him, too.

3. Vero starts to write a story on her laptop about herself a woman whose own family tore her newly born daughter away from her and the woman she had to be to survive this emptiness She isn't writing this to justify her mistakes. She is writing to leave a record that love, whether it be disguised, wrong or even full of fear, can also be true. This is her truth for Valeria. The whole truth is that she never found a way how to tell her. She hopes that one day when she reads this, she can look at her with less anger and a little bit of love.

4. An exasperated Romina confronts Iván at work with an article about the social extravaganza at the Spanish Embassy that he and the Countess attended. There is a full page photo of him and the Countess. She is not pleased. Last night she asked Marcos for a divorce. There is no going back. She did it because she wants something real with Iván that is not half-way and not hidden. Then this morning she finds this photo and Olga is still living with him as it doesn't matter. She informs him this is not a game. She refuses to be just another woman in his life. He explains that last night was a commitment that he could not cancel. It was only a supper, nothing more. She asks if that justifies the photo with them smiling. He says it doesn't but it doesn't change the truth either. What he had with Isabel the Countess is over and he also talked with Olga. He asked her to move and she agreed. He doesn't want anything unclear between them or photos that end up hurting her. She is is the only woman he wants to be with, share his life with today, tomorrow for as long as they both shall live. She asks him not to give her a reason to doubt him. She couldn't live with that. He promises her that he will not do that and kisses her.

5. Mario plays Marcos a visit asking him if he spoke to his wife. Marcos says that Kassandra pressured him. She threatened Romina. He was only trying to protect her. Mario informs him that he ended up giving Kassandra a weapon to be used against him, Vero and their daughter. Marcos swears he doesn't want to hurt him but is cut short by a punch to his face that knocks him to the floor. Mario pulls Marcos up by his lanyard and warns him that the next time he opens his mouth about him, Vero or his daughter, he will kill him. He leaves.
 

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6. Meli and Dani are shocked that Consuelo's real name is Verónica and that she is Vale's mother. Diego assures the girls that no matter who she is, she will not be bothering them again. Dani asks if they will ever see her again. Vale says never. Vale adds that she is sorry to say but they cannot trust her. Diego says there is no reason to apologize. Vale knows how much they all adored "Consuelo" but she only was there only looking for her. She never would have put them through all this craziness. Diego tells her not to feel guilty. (Is she a guilt magnet like Vero and Aurelio?) Her sisters tell her the same. Meli is sad. Vale says she is sad and also filled with anger but they have no idea how happy she is to have them with her. They all hug.

7. Kassandra is at home in a robe on the couch (but with no black and blue marks on her neck) telling Isaura that Mario called and wants to talk to her. Isaura says he will listen to her because that is how men are when they lose something they thought was theirs. They get scared. Her mother says she cannot allow that man to leave them both out on the street. Kassandra informs her that he asked her for a divorce. Isaura thinks she has to reminds him who she is. Kassandra asks if she really thinks she can save her marriage. Isaura tells her that Mario is her last chance not to lose it all so she can't give up. Kassandra looks worried.

8. At work, Romina tells Olga that last night she asked Marcos for a divorce. Olga remarks how serious that is and making a decision like that is no every day thing. Olga asks if Marcos took it badly. Looking sad, Romina explains that she was expecting another reaction other than the one she got. There was no shouting, no angry outburst, no arguing. He had nothing to say. Olga says it sounds like "shock" to her. Romina agrees but when Marcos keeps to himself, you never know when he is going to explode. Olga offers "or against who." Romina agrees. Marcos is capable of anything.

9. Joaquín is talking to Nuria explaining about Vero. Carmen tells Nuria that she thinks that Vero is a woman who made a mistake because she wanted to be at her daughter's side. Nuria says Vale is her niece and if she doesn't want to see Vero that's it. Period. End of discussion. Joaquín makes it clear that he told Nuria all about this because she is still the children's legal guardian. She also has to know that Vale is destroyed. What she needs right now is love, attention, support and not to be allowed to get stuck in resentment that could end up hurting her. Nuria understands. Next, Joaquín wants Nuria to explain to him what she was doing planning to take the children on a trip. She looks like a rat caught in a trap.

10. Nico has brought Claudia to the school where is is doing an outreach program. She looks around saying this is not her. He thinks that taking care of and loving each other is something we all should do. They go with a worker to help pass out toys to the kids. Nico shows her how it is done with enthusiasm as he greets the kids. The kids are all excited seeing the box and knowing what is coming. One boy needs help finishing a puzzle and Nico drafts Claudia to help him. She says it looks like they are missing a piece. The boy thinks that sounds like him. When he was alone, he felt like parts of him were missing but now he knows he is not alone because there are lots of people who take care of him and love him. Claudia smiles and pats him on the back. He finally finds the piece and finishes the puzzle. His teacher says sometimes you only have to have patience, look around and try it again. Smiling, Claudia tells Nico the kids are not angry for not having anything. She also realizes that she lives as if everyone owes her something. She no longer wants to live like that being angry all the time. She asks if he thinks there is a chance for her to be more patient and try again. He asks her if she isn't doing just that already. She has begun! She smiles. He gives her a hug and kisses her on the head.
 

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11. Meli and Dani are shocked that Consuelo's real name is Verónica and that she is Vale's mother. Diego assures the girls that no matter who she is, she will not be bothering them again. Dani asks if they will ever see her again. Vale says never. Vale adds that she is sorry to say but they cannot trust her. Diego says there is no reason to apologize. Vale knows how much they all adored "Consuelo" but she only was there only looking for her. She never would have put them through all this craziness. Diego tells her not to feel guilty. (Is she a guilt magnet like Vero and Aurelio?) Her sisters tell her the same. Meli is sad. Vale says she is sad and also filled with anger but they have no idea how happy she is to have them with her. They all hug.

12. Kassandra is at home in a robe on the couch (but with no black and blue marks on her neck) telling Isaura that Mario called and wants to talk to her. Isaura says he will listen to her because that is how men are when they lose something they thought was theirs. They get scared. Her mother says she cannot allow that man to leave them both out on the street. Kassandra informs her that he asked her for a divorce. Isaura thinks she has to reminds him who she is. Kassandra asks if she really thinks she can save her marriage. Isaura tells her that Mario is her last chance not to lose it all so she can't give up. Kassandra looks worried.

13.At work, Romina tells Olga that last night she asked Marcos for a divorce. Olga remarks how serious that is and making a decision like that is no every day thing. Olga asks if Marcos took it badly. Looking sad, Romina explains that she was expecting another reaction other than the one she got. There was no shouting, no angry outburst, no arguing. He had nothing to say. Olga says it sounds like "shock" to her. Romina agrees but when Marcos keeps to himself, you never know when he is going to explode. Olga offers "or against who." Romina agrees. Marcos is capable of anything.

14. Joaquín is talking to Nuria explaining about Vero. Carmen tells Nuria that she thinks that Vero is a woman who made a mistake because she wanted to be at her daughter's side. Nuria says Vale is her niece and if she doesn't want to see Vero that's it. Period. End of discussion. Joaquín makes it clear that he told Nuria all about this because she is still the children's legal guardian. She also has to know that Vale is destroyed. What she needs right now is love, attention, support and not to be allowed to get stuck in resentment that could end up hurting her. Nuria understands. Next, Joaquín wants Nuria to explain to him what she was doing planning to take the children on a trip. She looks like a rat caught in a trap.

15. Nico has brought Claudia to the school where is is doing an outreach program. She looks around saying this is not her. He thinks that taking care of and loving each other is something we all should do. They go with a worker to help pass out toys to the kids. Nico shows her how it is done with enthusiasm as he greets the kids. The kids are all excited seeing the box and knowing what is coming. One boy needs help finishing a puzzle and Nico drafts Claudia to help him. She says it looks like they are missing a piece. The boy thinks that sounds like him. When he was alone, he felt like parts of him were missing but now he knows he is not alone because there are lots of people who take care of him and love him. Claudia smiles and pats him on the back. He finally finds the piece and finishes the puzzle. His teacher says sometimes you only have to have patience, look around and try it again. Smiling, Claudia tells Nico the kids are not angry for not having anything. She also realizes that she lives as if everyone owes her something. She no longer wants to live like that being angry all the time. She asks if he thinks there is a chance for her to be more patient and try again. He asks her if she isn't doing just that already. She has begun! She smiles. He gives her a hug and kisses her on the head.
 

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16. Olga tells Marcos they were together and he discarded her like an old rag. Then he accused her of ruining his life and a thousand other things. Last night he showed up with that wet dog face and said that he needed her and wanted to be with her. She was such an imbecile to believe him. Marcos argues that he really needed her. She interrupts him saying it was because his wife had asked him for a divorce. It wan't love, it was fear, fear of being alone. And she was there waiting for him like a fool. He wants to apologize. She says he didn't have to call her, but he did. He made a date with her at that bar and he made her believe that she was important to him but he only played with her. Mario grabs her hand and tells her that she is important to him, very important. He doesn't want her to suffer because of him. She says it is too late for that. She is a fool who didn't know how to take care of her heart but whatever they had is over. She won't be his second best nor his emotional crutch. She doesn't want to see him ever again. Never again.

17. Mario tells Kassandra that she has nothing more to do there and tells her to go. Before she does, she tells Vero that she hopes that all of the pain she is feeling right now is with her for the rest of her life because she earned every tear for everything she did to her. Vero is ready to attack but Mario holds her back. He tells her she has the last word because she has her daughter. Vale argues that he hasn't seen Vale and the way she looks at her and what she thinks of her. She doesn't want to see her again. Mario explains she is only that way because of what Kassandra said. but she . . . Vero asks What? She has done what she has done. Mario will not let Vale to think that she is her enemy. He says she is her mother and he is her father and together. . . She says there is no together and there never will be. All she is asking of Mario is to control his wife because if she approaches her daughter again to hurt her, she will not be forgiving HIM! Mario starts in with Vero being the only woman in his life, the love of his life. Vale is part of both of them. He is going to correct all of his mistakes. He would give his money, his power, his name for her. Absolutely everything. Vero looks freaked out and leaves in silence. Mario looks sad.

18. Eleazar is talking to Vale about how this is her big chance in her career right now, everything she has dreamed about. She is so bummed out she doesn't know how she can race like she is. Joaquín has always told her when you get on a motorcycle you have to have your head on straight. She tells him to look at her. She tells him to look at her. That doesn't even motivate her now. Before the noise of a motor made her soul vibrate. Now, all she feels is an enormous emptiness and she points to her heart. Eleazar is sure that emptiness will fill itself again but she has to give it a chance.
 

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19. Rebeca storms into Mario's office again angry that Vale is going to compete in the next race. She will be the star of the team. He tells her not to start. She asks start what? He is the one supporting Vale, defending her, giving her a spot that she does not deserve. What about her? She is his daughter. Mario tells her to tone it down. She refuses because she is fed up with Vale who has taken all of his attention away from her. She is crying. He reminds her that she and Vale once were friends. They loved each other and took care of each other. She informs him that was before she wanted to steal Eleazar. Does he want her to pretend she doesn't detest her?He wants her to give Vale a chance and to leave that resentment she is feeling behind. Rebeca looks shocked. He adds that Vale is a good girl and Rebeca can learn a lot of things from Vale. Rebeca laughs and sarcastically remarks that Vale is always so perfect. The exemplary adopted child. He tells her not to talk about Vale like that again. Why not?? she asks. He says because Vale . . . is the same as she is and deserves respect. Rebeca doesn't know who her father is any more.

20. Nuria is now talking about the energy being so low in the house that they cannot let the son of her brother's murderer be there breathing the same air as they are. Joaquín explains that Eleazar is the boy that Vale loves and today he is one of the people she most needs at her side. Nuria is complains that on top of it all, Joaquín forced her to cancel the trip she had planned with so much love. He has no interest in arguing about the same thing again.While the legal case is open, it is for the best that the kids don't leave the country. Nuria says she never thought they would end up like this in the courts with lawyers. That is gong to break her nieces and nephews even more. He says she was the one who gave him no other option.She then confesses to Joaquín that she always had hoped that they could have united their energies in caring for the kids and be a family. She fell in love with him.

21. Nico and Claudia return to the snack bar. She talks about her experience. She didn't feel like she was the center of anything and that was okay. That boy wasn't angry about anything and she realized what a negative attitude she had. She feels like she wants to go back because she feels like she could do some good without having to compete or prove anything to anybody. That makes Nico happy. Nico notices that this is the first time she isn't talking about Diego. She admits it fees strange but also good. She thanks her father. Lorena smiles.

22. Nuria says she never wanted to feel that for Joaquín but it happened. She reminds him that they passed some lovely moments together. He was a such a good companion. She looks hopeful. Joaquín then says he feels honored but he thinks she is confused with respect to him. If he was like she said and if she thought it was something more, she needs to know that his only intention was to help her so she could get over Luis' death and become a part of the family. He is so sorry that it came off as something else. it was not his intention. She apologizes profusely saying she is crazy. He tells her no need for apologies but she is thoroughly embarrassed.
 

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23. Vero is working on her story. Consuelo checks to see if she needs anything, Consuelo tells her that Vale needs time and she does, too. Vero says that is why she is staying away from her. She is gong to respect her, her anger, and her truth. Consuelo asks why she is punishing herself like this. In tears, Vero explains she cannot just sit and do nothing knowing that she has lost her daughter again. Consuelo tries to explain that she hasn't. Vero has concluded all she can do is write her story, their story. She wants Vale to read it one day so she understands her and knows she never stopped searching for her or loving her. She feels like by writing she is fighting for her daughter. Consuelo advises her to write with her whole heart and she will take care of her.

24. Eleazar has gone and Joaquín asks Vale if she needs something. She noticed he never went to the office. He says he wanted to be there for her. He is open to talking about anything. She says that her head is such a mess she doesn't know what to do or how to go on. Maybe she needs to have her head focused on something else like her work. He says to give herself time. Nobody is rushing her about work. She knows. it is just her. He tells her it is best to face the things that are hurting us. She explains that she wishes none of this happened and that she never found out about Vero. If only she could go back to how they were before. Joaquín reminds her that she can't. She knows. She says now she knows that Vero is there. Even if she never sees her again, she knows who she is and where she is. She is so angry. The door bell rings.

25. Joaquín answers the door and it is Mario. He asks him what he is doing there. He is there to see his daughter. Joaquín doesn't know if she wants to see him. Mario says to let her decide. He asks if she is there and Vale appears saying she is. He addresses her as "daughter".

26. Aurelio appears at the office. He tells Romina he is looking for Vale. Iván says he knows how he feels and starts lecturing him on howVale needs time. . . Aurelio looks at him like he is nuts and asks why is this guy giving his opinion anyway. These are family matters. Iván reintroduces himself and extends his hand which Aurelio avoids. Romina has to correct Aurelio telling him he is Iván not "Navarrito" ( Little Navarro). Romina also informs him that Iván is her partner.

27. Mario says that before uttering a single word, he wants to show Vale that his intentions towards her and her siblings are the right ones. He hands Joaquin the documents for the purchase agreement of the Miranda shares in the company. It is her inheritance; what belongs to her. Joaquín sees that Nuria wanted to sell the inheritance of her own nieces and nephews. Mario says she did as their legal guardian and she was about to transfer her shares to Kassandra. Mario says he stopped it all in time so Vale and her siblings could continue being the owners of the part of the company that belongs to them. Nothing was lost. Mario smiles.
 

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28. In the break room, Romina tells her father that she is very much in love with Iván. She looks at his disappointed face and asks him if he could at least look happy for her. He asks what is he supposed to be happy about. He makes the point that she is still a married woman. She tells him not for much longer. She already asked Mario for a divorce. He thinks she is acting on a whim. She disagrees. Iván is the man that she loves.He makes her happy and takes care of her. He is the man of her life. She asks him to give Iván a chance. She thinks that after the hard time he, Vero and she went through , they are now starting to be happy. She wants to share her happiness with the family. He asks if that . . . guy is serious about her. She answers very much so. He thinks Iván is going to have to work really hard to gain his trust. He laughs. She laughs saying he will. He says "amén" to that.

29. Vero gets a visit from Lupita the office manager from her last job with Flores. Lupita says the magazine has been stagnant since Flores died but things are finally being worked out. The Steering Commitee has decided to put her in charge. Vero is happy for her and congratulates her. Vero adds that the magazine didn't work because of Flores. It worked because of Lupita behind the scene. Lupita deserves it!. Lupita says she cannot do it on her own. That is why she is here. She has the approval of the owners to offer Vero a position so they can both manage the magazine. Vero asks her? Lupita say yes her because she is the best journalist that she has ever known. They need her voice. She cannot imagine the magazine without her. Vero smiles.

30. Mario explains that Kassandra insinuated to him that Nuria planned to take the Miranda kids out of the country at 4:00pm to never return. Now the vacation makes sense to Joaquín. Mario tells Vale that he will allow nobody to put her in danger: NOBODY. He is her father and she has him. He would like to talk to her alone.Vale says okay and asks Joaquín if they can use his office. He agrees. He will be waiting for her.

FIN
 

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Busy busy episode

Looking like time is moving on with
-Vero writing her story and getting a new job,
-Olga rejecting Marcos for using her,
-Mario treating Vale like the daughter she is and restoring the inheritance of the Miranda family,
-Vero rejecting Mario one more time
-Nuria being stopped from taking the kids abroad
-Romina moving on with Iván

And so much more … tomorrow.

Very busy epsiode as we cruise to the FIN

 

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Jarifa, your words brought such vibrancy and clarity to all that transpired. Your razor-sharp perception breathed life and vitality into all of the characters so beautifully. Your words were pure poetry, enlightening and enchanting.

It was hard watching Vero continue to suffer...I did enjoy her lighting into Kassandra though. So relieved Mario halted Nuria and Kassandra's plans to transfer the children's shares! I'm so glad Vero is channeling her emotions into her writing, the perfect cathartic outlet for her emotional turmoil.

"Joaquín wants Nuria to explain to him what she was doing planning to take the children on a trip. She looks like a rat caught in a trap". Far too close a call. I am so relieved that Nuria's plans to abscond with the children was thwarted.

"He is going to correct all of his mistakes. He would give his money, his power, his name for her. Absolutely everything". Even the hardest heart has an Achilles heel, a soft spot that belies an otherwise cruel countenance. For Mario, that is Vale. His love for his daughter is genuine and from the heart. While Vero now has none of the love she once had for him, I do believe that had he fought to return, he and Vero would have formed a loving family with Vale. The trajectory of his life would have been very different. Looking at him now, I am still trying to reconcile this loving persona toward Vero and Vale with the murdering monster that he also is. The sins he has committed cannot be forgiven. Nor should they.

"These are family matters. Iván reintroduces himself and extends his hand which Aurelio avoids. Romina has to correct Aurelio telling him he is Iván not "Navarrito" (Little Navarro). Romina also informs him that Iván is her partner". OK, I can't believe I'm defending Aurelio but I'm doing so here. Waltzing off with the countess for an elegant evening as Romina asks her husband for a divorce? He just doesn't get it. Something just isn't right...I just can't warm to Ivan.

"She won't be his second best nor his emotional crutch. She doesn't want to see him ever again. Never again". Marcos did treat Olga shabbily, but I do think he does care and will crawl on broken glass to get her back. This crazy couple does appear to be each other's destiny.

Claudia finally steps outside herself for another...

The train is nearing the station. What a ride this has been! Thank you for everything Jarifa.

Diana
 

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Jarifa, thank you so much for a great replay of an episode that threw a lot at us
Diana, great comments .
Well, I am surprised that it looks like Rom and Ivan ( who seems to have found a comb somewhere ) and maybe Olga and Marcos are the couples. I so don't care. I guess Rom was just ill...not pregnant .

Mario has quickly stopped all the damage done to the Miranda family, so . I guess we will have to give him that, but I don't think he will survive . I think Kass will kill him .

Vale will forgive Vero, and Vero, Joachim , and kids will get a HEA. Susan
 

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"Ivan (who seems to have found a comb somewhere)" had me laughing out loud Susan. SO TRUE!

Still chuckling,,,thanks for the laugh, I really needed it today.

Diana
 

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Diana, ha....if I gave you a laugh , my day is made !!! We need more laughter these days ! Susan
 

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There was a scene that I missed in the recap last night. IIRC, Majo is talking to Renán on the phone. He tells her that he is gong to to his dr. appointment. She insists on gong with him. He grins. Diego comes in to chat and he and Majo end up hugging but Diego doesn't look like he is into it or her.

I like how everything is being tied up even with the more minor plots like Claudia. YAY! Nuria was thwarted. I liked Vero having the opportuity to tell Kassandra off courtesy of Mario.

Diana, I am still with you wondering what would have happened if Vero and Mario had the chance to be parents from the start.

Susan, loved your comb comment, too. I could see Kass killing Mario. Something has to happen to both of them to balance the scales in good novela anvil style.

As for Iván, he technically doesn't owe anyone any money because Facundo is dead but I still hope that Joaquín asks him about it. That is my only hang up about him and it could be a big one if he is planning on wheeling dealing his way through life. I couldn't stand macho "wait on me" Marcos so I think this could be a step up for Romina. I hope that when Mario "crawls on broken glass" to get Olga back, that he gets the message that he is no better than any woman.

I find it odd that the female characters have at at least a mother or an aunt present but there are no parents or even a mention of any when it comes to Joaquín, Iván, Mario, or Marcos. It is as if they were all orphans which I am sure they wouldn't be.
 

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Jarifa, that is an interesting observation you made about no mention of parents for the adult male characters . We do know that Mario's father/ parent s shipped him out of Mexico to get him away from 15 year old Vero. Also , Nico 's parents seem to have pushed him into becoming a priest and not marrying Lorena, and they pressured Aurelio into marrying Bea instead of Consuela,...did we ever find out why they preferred Bea?
On!y two more episodes to resolve everything . I am hoping for at least one beautiful wedding ..Joachin and Vero. with all the kids in the weddibg.Joachim was a breath of fresh air as a kind, gentle, caring, protective galan. Leading men in recent novelas,seem to be more like antiheroes than heroes. Susan
 

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Thanks so much Jarifa, you do an excellent job of giving us a play by play of all the events in each episode. And this episode had plenty going on. I’m guessing Nuria will be history once Joaquin reports she sold the kids shares and was planning to leave the country. I hope Joaquin confronts her tonight.

I liked Aurelio’s reaction to Ivan. Although he apparently learned more about fatherhood as he’s willing to give Ivan a chance. I’m still hoping their romance doesn’t work out but time is running out so I think I’ll be disappointed.

I hate that Vale told the younger girls that Vero is her mother and they can’t trust her. Even Diego has that attitude. I think the girls are probably sad that they’re being assured Vale will never bother them again.

I’m glad Vale wrote the story and has a better job now. They can make the newspaper a more reliable source of the news.

We still need to find out Mario is a murderer and Kassandra was bribing Luis. And I hope Vale finds out it was Rebecca that kept her from racing. She needs to know Rebecca has not been a friend to her.

I guess Olga and Marcos will fade into the background as it doesn’t seem like Olga is going to want to be the second choice.

Ha Susan, I liked the comb comment. I thought his hair was different but I wasn’t too impressed with it. I guess he needs practice!

 

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Liz, At the beginning , I thought that lazy Ivan was going to go on his hero's journey and become his brother's right hand man when he was put to work in that room with all the documents .Nopis. Through out the whole show , he just dogged Romina relentlessly and gave out advice to everyone who didn't ask for it . Ho hum. It was weird that he mooched off his brother and never moved out of Joachim house even when abortion had to go to a hotel !!! By the way, what is his job ??! We never saw him doing any " work."
I wonder if we will get any new twists tonight. These writers like to keep us guessing . What will soften Vale's anger toward Vero? Susan
 

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Whoops autocorrect turned Joachim into abortion ???
P.s. Will Nuria,get an anvil , or will she just disappear as mysteriously as she appeared,and return to her hippy dippy ways? Susan
 

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Susan, I guess I worded it poorly. It should have been that we never saw those male character’s parents or heard what happened to them or where they were living now or what they were doing now.

Liz, it would not surprise me if several characters just faded away like Nuria, Marcos and Olga. I agree and do hope that Vale finds out that Rebeca was working against her but should it be before or after she discovers they are half sisters? That is goign to be a shocker for Vale and Rebeca.
 

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Jarifa, yes, you're right . The women and girls had women relatives who supported them . Consuela was so supportive of not on!y her own kids but also Vero and Rom .She was the show's mother figure Lorena was there for Claudia even when she rejected her . She was also a support for Vero and even Mayo. Olga was at times,,kind of there For Mayo, although Majo seemed more mature than her mother.. Carmen took care of Vale and her siblings and became a friend to Vero. Vero was,always a support for Vale and her siblings.
I liked the way El got closer to his mother and became a better person as he moved away from his dad. We never found out much about Hugo except that Carmen was,his aunt and seemed close to him.
And then we have Kass and her mother .......apple>>>>tree.
Did we ever find out who Rebecca's mother is was? Susan
 

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Jarifa, thanks for Wed & Thursday. Reading both recaps has been a blast.

We know that eventually Vale will be understanding with Vero, but I wonder what will trigger this.

Loved Mario spilling the beans on Nuria signing to sell the shares to Kass, even though he orchestrated the whole thing in the first place.
 

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Niecie, Mario is really slick. Only two left!