Caray, Caray!

LaFont discovers that his love letters with John Foreman are missing. (ok not love letters, that was a joke)

La Paisana explains to Foreman why Ric killed Lazaro. I have to say Ric just killing him instantly was awesome. No dragged out James Bond ten opportunities to escape BS, just “I’ve been looking for you to kill you, now I’m here, I’m going to kill you” and then he did. Anyway, Hernan says that Ric always had a soft heart, Foreman goes off on him that it isn’t about his heart at all, he had the right to kill him, because when your captain gives you an order, you OBEY. Blind loyalty has disappeared in this profession, Foreman says disgustedly.

Justo makes plans in his yard for the wedding party while Vasco watches. Ascanio arrives and tells Vasco what he found and didn’t find on his travels. Vasco tells him that Camila signed the document to buy the mill, but Ric has to sign it and he hopes he will refuse, saving Camila’s money. Ascanio thinks Ric will go along with his wife’s wishes. Justo sees Ascanio and yells out to him, Vasco says Justo doesn’t know anything about the mill yet.

Foreman asks La Paisana if Juancho is smart enough to be the boss of he land pirate gang, she says he has the brain of a fly. But – they have corrupted enough of the local law that they run around as they please. They seem to be going overboard and the locals are getting tired of them. If the crown investigates anything, it will surely lead to them. Foreman says they need someone smarter, what about her? She says she’s too old and tired. She wants to retire, and she says that Foreman should think about that too. After she leaves, Hernan says she’s right, Juancho is an idiot. Foreman suggests El Chino as a potential leader for the gang. Hernan says El Chino might be a little too good for these guys.

Camila is being really dumb and won’t accept the fact that GRita hates her, as Jimena is trying to convince her. Jimena is right and gives all the evidence of her jealousy, etc. Camila trusts everyone (including Jimena) when she shouldn’t. Her second chances have given Cleo an opportunity to cause trouble already. She needs to wise up. She hopes that Ric will be back in time for the wedding since they are supposed to be testigos.

Mario gets off his horse and whines about missing the sea. Ric agrees, but points out the bad parts of the sea too. Mario asks if the letters stolen from LaFont are proof enough, Ric says with those and if Pastor testifies to what he told Ric and Mario, then for sure they are proof enough, but he doesn’t think Pastor will go along, as he would be incriminating himself. Mario says the Spanish could torture it out of Pastor. Ric says sure, but maybe they can get to Foreman and skip all that.

Camila, Jimena, Fran, and Camila are all having tea together, I think Lis set it up and is trying to pretend to be nice. She wants to know what she can give Ines as a wedding gift. Camila doesn’t have any good ideas, she suggest asking Ines directly, Lis says no, she doesn’t really know her at all. Fran says they’ll think of something. Lis asks if Ric is going to the wedding, Camila says yes because they will be the witnesses. Lis gets all sour and fumbles for her cup, I guess now even the simple mention of ‘we’ that means Ric and Camila together sets her off. She and GRita need to leave and form their own little place, Jealous Island or something. They can sit and complain all day about how the men they are after are so confused, or whatever jealous women rant about.

LaFont walks to the palace.

Lis and Fran walk back to their room, appalled that Ric will be a wedding witness with a false name. ah, that must be what Lis was all shaky about. Maybe. My first theory still sounds about right. They discuss the usual things, again. Getting help from Alberto, which Lis seems to be warming too but not convinced just yet, and then on and on about Camila having Lis’s money. Fran says something about Ric going back out to sea to get more money by killing and robbing people, Lis gets upset and says he only did/does that stuff because of Fran and Tim framing him for that murder. Fran again claims innocence, Lis doesn’t believe her.

Sofia tells Manuela that Uriel wants to marry her, she isn’t very excited about it, Sofia understands that she really wants a real man, like they sing about in songs. Manuela asks if Sofia has had those thoughts too? Sofia says of course, she got married about Maneula’s age, and besides those guys don’t exist. Manuela says sure but there are nice guys. Sofia says if she means Ascanio then forget it. Manuela says of course not him, Sofia says of course YES him! But – Alberto would never allow it. Unless, Ascanio… changes. She asks Manuela if he is friends with Santiago, Manuela says yes he works with him, why? Sofia gets a real twinkle in her eye and says “oh just curious.” I guess Ascanio can be part of the ‘inner circle’ like Jorge put together with his loser friends.

LaFont fills in Jorge about the letters and that it puts them in a bit of trouble. He suspects Ric of the theft. Jorge is a bit slow, he hasn’t put it all together about Ric finding that cart and suspecting Alberto, even though they went and killed the witnesses and all that. They are a bit confused about what he was or wasn’t looking for or what he did or didn’t get into at LaFont’s house. They move on, Alberto tells of his visit with Don Gaspar. It appears that our Ric isn’t the pirate cousin, but get this – both Rics are godsons of Don Gaspar. Jorge says what a strange world we live in, laughing. Jorge then says that Gonzalo has gone from being a pain to being a real danger.

Later there is a party, Gonzalo is drunk and talking about robbing a caravan, the others tell him to be quiet. Gonzalo says that if anything happens to him because he is going against Jorge, there is someone who knows EVERYTHING and will get them all in big trouble. He won’t tell who that is. Then the hookers come out and everyone is distracted.

Jorge and LaFont continue to discuss the fact that Gonzalo is stupid and a danger, they might have to kill him. Then Jorge tells LaFont that Foreman sent that letter and is coming to San Fernando. LaFont is not pleased, Jorge is looking forward to it.

Santiago tells his mother again that he could pay for Ines’s wedding, Sofia shouldn’t do it. Get over it already. Ofelia wants to know how things are with GRita, he says the same. They hope she shapes up after having the baby. Santiago wants to know what’s up with Ofelia lately, she claims all sorts of stuff about the wedding, Vasco, etc. Santiago doesn’t believe her. He tells her that Camila bought the mill to give to her father. Still, he thinks Ofelia isn’t telling him everything and he presses her, she talks about what a good son and man he is. She doesn’t want him to change, he says he never would, no matter what she says. She stumbles around what she wants to say but won’t come out with it. She wants him to stay the same good man as always, no matter what. She says she has to finish the wedding dress and that’s his cue to leave.

Uriel and Marcel weave tell Alberto and Jorge about what Gonzalo said. I guess they weren’t at a party, they were just at the whorehouse. So I’m sure they smell great, and here Alberto and Jorge keep on eating right in front of them. I suppose the array of odors on people back then were more than we could ever imagine and to them it was normal. They all think that Gonzalo is full of it, but they still have to try and make sure. Jorge asks when the next caravan is coming, they don’t know, he wants to know exactly when. I’m not sure if they are going to attack it, or just to go and find and stop Gonzalo.

Ric and Mario arrive home late at night. Pablo reports on Camila’s business. One place was the palace, Mario wonders why but Ric says he knows why. Ric goes to his room, Camila is already there sleeping. He touches a kiss to her lips with his fingers, then leaves the room. He asks the servant to prepare him a bath, he doesn’t look very happy.

Alberto yells with a purple face at Nana that she had to see something about what the robbers looked like! She doesn’t have much to offer. Manuela asks if he suspects someone, he shuts her up with a dark look.

After his bath Ric goes back to his room. He walks around with no shirt for all you ladies. He gets into bed and wakes up Camila, the Disney song comes on so I guess they are going to have sex. She says she was having a dream with him, a good one. He says now he’s here for real. I guess a lot of you love these scenes, they make me want to fast forward. In the morning they eat breakfast and tell each other how good looking they are. She says they will be testigos for Vasco, he doesn’t seem thrilled. He asks why she went to the palace, she tells of the mill and buying it. He reminds her of the ED card. She is sure that Bernabe won’t go against her. Ric doesn’t like all this. She says if his father was alive, she would do the same. He says yes, but that’s him. She says women are different? He says not women, just that he has more ways to defend himself. He is upset that she disregards the ED card so quickly. She says she needs his signature. He asks if she wants him to sign it, she says yes, and he says yes. He says he needs to resume business though, to get enough money to cover what the ED card might take away. She reminds him that he was going to go straight, he says the fortune of his… uh from Tim was 2.8 million pesos, he can’t recover all that without pirating. She says well hopefully nothing will go wrong. He tells her about his conversation with Pastor. She doesn’t want him to return to pirating. He says he’ll do whatever to keep her out of debtor’s prison. They have to wait and see what happens with that stupid ED card. How come nobody is laying blame on Justo for not making sure it was burned all the way?

Sofia and family leave for the wedding, she tells Jorge that he should go too, to show that he doesn’t hold any hard feelings. He agrees and goes to change.

GRita is already complaining that the wedding better not take long, she’s more tired each day. And we are more tired of her each day! Santiago tries to be nice to her, he truly is a saint for putting up with this. She says whatever, they can’t stay until the end, she needs to rest. Ines comes outside all dressed up, she looks really pretty and they all tell her so. Ofelia gives Ines a present, a broach she was saving. GRita asks why she never showed it to anyone before, Santiago says they were saving it for a gift. GRita is immediately suspicious and asks a gift for who? Santiago deliberately tells her “ For my SISTER on her WEDDING DAY.” Man GRita pisses me off. She continues to look at Santiago like she doesn’t believe him. Santiago says he didn’t buy it, he found it, when he survived a shipwreck. We see a flashback of Santiago finding the broach on the beach with a long beard, then in the present he slips up and says he kept it as a present for Camila. GRita asks why didn’t he give it to her (GRita) then? He doesn’t answer.

Camila tells Ric not to sign if it means he’ll go back to pirating. He tells her he knows what he’s doing, but she says he could die at any moment. He says that could happen anywhere. Lis shows up looking for Ric, Camila leaves. He tells her she looks pretty, she says they are going to the wedding, oh and Santiago came twice to talk to Camila, didn’t she tell you? Obviously not.

The whole town comes out for the wedding. Manuela looks around, I’m sure for Ascanio. She and Alberto meet up with Sofia and family. Alberto sees Lis and comes right over. He compliments Lis, the ladies say they need to speak with him, later in his house. Manuela spots Ascanio finally and gives him a big smile. Santiago walks Ines down a red carpet, Ursula eyes him. Horrible bagpipes play. Everyone waves stalks of wheat. Ursula lusts after Santiago some more. Ines and Santiago arrive at the alter, with the priest, Vasco and Justo are there as well. The priest leads the way inside, Vasco tells Ines she looks pretty, like a doll.

Foreman tells Juancho to stop going into town and making trouble. Juancho says the guys need fun, Foreman says when he gives an order, that’s that. Juancho says a caravan is coming, are they going to attack it? Foreman says no, Juancho says he has gone soft like Ric. Foreman jumps all over him and looks like he’s going to slit his throat, but he just injures him. He tells him to get out in English and Spanish. He tells La Paisana something about keeping them in line until El Chino arrives. Foreman leaves, Juancho comes back in and yells at her, she punches him. He wants to make trouble, but she pulls her gun on him and tells him to get out.

The wedding is apparently over, the couple comes out and actually looks happy. Everyone else is too. Ric congratulates them. Alberto asks Jorge if he’s going to the reception, Jorge says no, he has done his duty already. Manuela eyes Ascanio, Ursula eyes Santiago, then congratulates Vasco and Ines. Mario and Ric discuss Fran and Lis talking to Alberto, they know something is up. Ursula says hi to Santiago, who says he hopes she comes to the party. She says yes of course. Vasco overhears and isn’t thrilled, of course. He ended up with a better woman, even if she isn’t rich. Justo greets Jorge, who immediately says he has nothing against Justo, he took the concessions for economic reason. Justo is forced to say he understands. He invites Jorge to the party, Jorge says he can’t. He wants to know if Camila told him the good news, that she bought the mill. He is happy, but can’t believe she did it. He says god bless her.

Manuela wants to go to the party, Alberto says no, it’s full of low class people. She says Sofia and Ursula are going, he says Sofia likes slumming and Ursula is a whore. Manuela is scandalized. I guess she’s not going to the party. Alberto rings the bell at his house to be let in, then he just sends Manuela inside and says he’ll be in later.

Everyone dances and has fun at the wedding, Vasco seems to have decided that this will be ok for him, he’s enjoying himself. Ursula sits between Santiago and Ofelia. Justo sits with his not girlfriend Sofia. GRita shoots Santiago dirty looks for talking to Ursula.

Monday: Sofia tells Jorge that Ursula has found a new toy, Santiago. Jorge says to just tell her she’s prohibited. Sofia says she has a better idea, go public with the news that Santiago is Jorge’s son! Also, Santiago is still in love with Camila and argues some more with GRita about it.

Labels: Pasion

Pastor is more giddy than usual, despite being demeaned, degraded and fired from Farell at 120 decibels. So, what’s up with that? He’s discovered that life with Angarita might not be all bad. In fact, it might not be bad at all. He has persuaded Anga that if he can bring enormous accounts to the business and make Anga’s company way bigger than Farell, the biggest in the history of the country, then Pastor won't have to drive the delivery truck. Anga would just be happy if Pastor cuts the losses. Pastor declares he’s going to build a wonderful office to receive clients, and decorate it himself [Ed. Note: Well, of COURSE he will, especially if Anga isn’t letting him change the house.]. Anga is fine with all that, as long as he can die a happy man at the central market even if he’s rolling in dough. Anga actually looks like this might suit him as long as he’s left to do his thing.

Paula and Juan have a lovely view of a waterfall and a canyon with green walls and mist. I, on the other hand, am dizzy and want them to slooooowly baaacckkk awayyyyy from the edge and not make AnySuddenMoves. Paula marvels at Juan having a son, and he replies it’s the most lovely thing that’s happened to him after her. Juan paints a scene of the three of them, in Achichipico, together. It’s idyllic. Juan will work the land, and she’ll be in their little house fixing him those foods he loves. Juan gives her a sample weekly schedule that includes swimming in the river below and Paula smiles. But of course he doesn’t expect her just to do housework. Nope, she’s got the expertise to be the marketing director and they’ll really become a splash in the anthurium world. They’ll do those charity bazaars, too (kermesses, from a few weeks ago). Paula’s smile falters. Juan doesn’t notice and continues that she should go back to the city, ponder the question of her divorce with CL, and think about what he’s said. Palomita music tells us this is an Important Moment. Paula’s look makes us wonder if she’s going with the program.

Well, the Important Moment seems to have abruptly moved away from the edge of the canyon, for which some of us are eternally grateful. However, the Important Moment now has a crowd of admirers and perhaps a few who aren’t admirers, necessarily. On my campus, the High School Handbook expressly forbids this kind of PDA (NOT a personal digital assistant, folks). Juanito takes notes as Papi kisses Paula rather thoroughly. Nidia and Delfi beam, and so do Molo and even Herl. Only Ana is put out. Juan continues his pep talk about thinking it over. Paula starts the weaseling out process—things in the city are pretty complex. Juan knows it’ll take a while, though. He loves her. Literally, in front of the gang. Until, that is, Ana clears her throat loudly. [Ed. Note: This doesn’t work with deaf kids. You have to go in and break it up] Juan tells Ana to take care of Paula and don’t let her do anything crazy. Like what she’s doing in front of witnesses isn’t crazy. Paula goes to Juanito and tells him to take care of Daddy and don’t let him do anything crazy. He replies just the way Ana did—as if they’ll pay any attention, either of them. Paula bids the others farewell and Ana talks Nidia into going back to the city with them although Nidia doesn’t want to even think about Delirio and she really wants to keep having fun with Delfi. She mourns her bad Karma in this life. Juan kisses her farewell and Nidia mourns leaving him.

Our heads spin as the traffic in the city zips before our eyes and suddenly we’re in CL’s office. CL wants to know why Moni’s worried about him using Ivonne as a spy, after all, Pastor and Ivonne are such great girlfriends. That’s what worries Moni. She thinks Ivonne will actually help Pastor, but CL knows how to manage Ivonne. Moni realizes what his hook in Ivonne is (so to speak) and Moni isn’t thrilled. She warns him that Ivonne can’t be trusted and she’s lost interest in CL. The lobby lizards are still milling, but they’re actually reading documents and doing their best to look busy. Imagine that! Back to Moni, reminding CL that Paula could have something to do with the loss of the anthurium biz. He tells Moni he’s cancelled the trip with Paula. Moni thinks that’s a pretty big lesson for Paula and CL informs Moni he’s going to formalize something that will change everything—he’s separating from Paula. Moni is predictably impactada.

Paula drives and thinks, thinks and drives. Oh, scratch that, Nidia is in the back seat so Paula can’t think. Nidia gleefully demands all the chisme. Paula good-naturedly tells her it went will with Juan. Nidia, predictably, wants details. She wants Juan’s and Paula’s schedule for the next decade or so—day by day, preferably. How will this love story finish? Paula tells her they talked a lot. Well, that’s highly unsatisfactory. Talked? We KNOW that, and we saw those kisses. Nidia conjectures a scenario that suits her better. Ana is scandalized and Paula is thoroughly amused. Nidia picks at her and Paula tells her to not change, grinning broadly. Nidia realizes what’s missing here and pulls out the bottle, offering a sip to the driver and navigator. Paula pushes the bottle away and points out she’s driving. Ana just moans at the smell of it. Nidia’s fine with that, more for her.

Moni expresses her concern for CL’s plan. He is thinking of divorce, and she thinks he needs a cool head to think this out. Maybe that’s not the best thing. He’s could be making assumptions that have no basis. CL doesn’t want to wait until Paula gives him more problems. She ran after that idiot, and they’re mocking him. Moni points out it COULD be true, but it could just be supposition. He hasn’t heard her side of the story. [Ed. Note: Great defensive strategy, speak on behalf of the enemy’s position.] He’s taking a lot for granted—she might not even have seen Juan. CL needs to wait and get the facts. He’s just acting out of jealousy. She exhorts him to wait and find out more. He thinks it’s not worth the trouble.

Paula gives Nidia a few more details about how she’s feeling—it’s a mixture of emotions. She’s beaming, though, so we suppose we’ll have to go with the possibility that she’s actually not going to whine here. [Could it be?] It’s uncertainty, joy, fantasy. Nidia is jubilant, possibly in large part due to the vast quantity of 80 proof fermented agave potion # 9 she’s imbibed. Ana is Not Amused. Nidia pushes for more info—so, what REALLY happened? They talked. But Paula points out that at the end of the day, it looks like what he expects life to be and what she expects are different. Well, apparently she’s Not Going with the Program, folks. Ana gets to the real point—how the heck can she even be discussing this with Juan when she’s married to CL? Nidia throws her support behind Paula. Paula points out she’s speaking hypothetically based on something he said (en el supuesto, my interpretation based on context). Paula continues that he’s a country boy and she’s a city girl. The environments they are used to are very different. She fantasizes about his proposal that she could separate and move to Achichipico but eventually it would terrify her. Nidia expostulates that life is an adventure and you have to take risks or you’ll end up a zombie—but you’ll feel secure. Love is worth the risk. Ana disagrees and gives all her reasons. Love’s not enough; you have to be compatible, have common goals. Paula could be listening to this, or maybe she’s back in Achichipico, who knows. At least she’s not on her cell phone. This conversation is distracting enough in traffic. Paula comes to and points out that at least Juan’s not alone; he has Juanito. Part of her wants to leave it all behind and go to them, and part resists because this love won’t hold up. Her happiness begins to fade and our excitement at no whining today fades, too. She talks herself out of feeling good.

Moni brings CL papers to review and sign. He’d rather proposition her. He deftly disguises it as an invitation to eat to show his appreciation for all she’s done for him, like not noticing his years of cheating and lying. [Ed. Note: Who said that? (looking over shoulder)]. Moni wants to know about his Paula, isn’t she coming in tonight? He informs her with a meaningful look that Paula called and it’s not for sure she’s coming tonight. Moni wonders [coquettishly] if he’s willing to risk that. Apparently, he is. Moni has to “think” about accepting the invite and he has to “persuade” her. When will he pick her up? At 8:00. Perfect.

Paula’s counseling session continues. She doesn’t know what to do with CL and it’s going to be a bit difficult when she gets home. She doesn’t want to hurt him because she’s been unfair with him. If only you knew, Paula, honey. Nidia has better sense, why the heck is she worried about this guy? He’ll have them lining up out to the street! Women will beat a path to his door! Well, THAT’S comforting. Ana points out it’s not a question of the number of willing women. Paula and CL made a commitment when they married. [Ed. Note: Paula strays over the lines like I do when I’ve been at meetings all day and I’m driving late at night. It’s daylight, though, and she’s not the one drinking. Maybe the fumes are getting to her.] Nidia doesn’t buy that. Paula defends CL, though, and heaven knows why she’d do that. But we know way more than she does. She can’t abandon CL because he’s given up so much for her, Paula tells Nidia, who scoffs. Ana is glad, though, that Paula recognizes it. Whatever, Nidia tells Paula, if you think the guy’s a saint, okay. Paula continues to defend this paragon who has been respectful to her. Right. I’m with Nidia—whatever. Nidia makes a crack about him cuckolding Paula and Ana cuts her off as Nidia gets slurrier and slurrier. [Ed. Note: my spell check tells me that’s not a word, but trust me here folks, tonight that’s the only word that describes our Nidia.] Ana throws in a pointed statement about there needing to be a calculated (cool) balance between CL and Juan. Whatever. Paula looks like more whining’s in the offing here.

Anga calls Kike out of a pea-soup fog—where’s his brain (he’s like he’s “frozen stiff” – pasmado)? Earth to Kike! Kike's sorry and indicates to Anga there’s trouble in River City. Anga tells him to spit it out. Kike hesitates and finally spills the soup. Something bad happened in the house—not recently, but some time ago. Did you know who got everything when Samuel died? Anga supposes Nidia and the girls, but Kike disabuses him of the notion—nope, it was the Dávilas. But, Perafán and Nidia faked a will so it looks like Nidia and the girls got it all. They emptied the accounts and there you go. Anga is predictably impactado.

Speaking of the Queen of Rome, Nidia is emptying the bottle at a dizzying pace. Literally. My stomach jumps as I see the bottle upended. Suddenly, she sobs and Paula and Ana get worried. Nidia feels awful. [For good reasons!] Ana scolds her for drinking when she hasn’t eaten. That’s not it. Nidia laments her sins. Paula wants to know what’s up, she was so happy just a little while ago. Nidia continues her lament about the sins she’s committed against Ana and Paula, and asks forgiveness. She’s so filled with remorse! Haunting violin music reminds us of how tragic this is. Ana thinks Nidia’s just drunk. Nidia agrees, she is, and that’s why she’s also contrite. She begs forgiveness for all she’s done to them and she shouldn’t have treated them like she has. Ana and Paula are very concerned and totally without a clue. Ana comforts her—everyone gets into their cups now and then. Paula encourages Nidia to take a nap. Nidia wants good fortune for them. They assure her they want the same for her. Nidia asks for Ana’s hand, and tells her how much she cares about Ana, who smiles indulgently.

Anga defends Nidia to Kike—it was that coyote, Perafán. Surely it was his idea, Nidia would NEVER come up with something so ugly. Kike isn’t so sure. He thinks she was on board. They kept it all under wraps really well, too. Anga won’t hear it of his Nidia. We hear a cheery “¡hola!” that actually reminds us of Lety. A little orange blob comes around the corner, carried by her Mami. It’s Nidia Micaela accompanied by Yadira. Surprise! Anga warmly greets Yadi while Kike takes momentary charge of his precious hija. What’s up, and why this lovely little visit? Yadi has an interview to get back into college and Kike is the designated babysitter. ¿Qué?!! We see Anga peering over Yadi’s shoulder and again are struck by how much these two look alike. Kike tells Yadi under his breath no way he can do that, because Don Anga might not be thrilled and Anga butts in to assure them that Kike and he will be the tag team babysitters. Yadi falls all over herself thanking Anga. Kike is pleased and relieved. Nidia Micaela is totally entranced by the cameraman. What a precious headband with a little yellow bow to remind us she’s a girl. At least for the story line. Yadi thanks Anga again and takes off before anyone changes his mind. Anga beams and waves her off.

Juan’s back in his office discussing the pageant details with Molo. How’s it going? Fine. Doña Delfina’s the only entrant from Achichipico. Juan is impactado. Everyone else is an out-of-towner….and of…er….other ages. Uh-huh. They muse about that but move on quickly to the real details about the contestants. Juan wants to review all the applications and know about them—who they are, what are their aspirations, and most importantly, what are there qualifications….er, measurements. Molo gestures his agreement. Juan needs to know everything they’ve spent up to now, too. Molo’s getting right on it. They high five and Molo’s off to take care of bidniz.

At the Insituto Del Valle, Yadi’s interview is in process. She scribbles hastily at paperwork for the interview, and looks up at a drop-dead gorgeous professor. Young, trim, tailored, guapo. Whew, I need Nidia’s fan. Not bad for a prof. He says her name slowly, with emphasis, and smiiiiiiles at Yadi, who is mesmerized. For a change, she’s speechless. As he drops the paper she’s given him on the desk of a Fea, unsmiling Profesora (now, THIS is a Profesora, collared blouse with ruffles, buttoned up to the nose and probably with a skirt down to her toenails, and to top the haute couture NOT off , a camel colored v-neck cardigan and snide look), we note that he’s a real Profe, too, because he has those professorial patches on his jacket elbows that my hubby had when he was a prof at a college.). The Profa sneers at Yadi and wants to know why she dropped out of school. Yadi tells her it was because her father died. The Profe wants to know why she has chose Social Communication? Yadi replies she wants to help teach folks how to communicate. [Right.] The Profes do the Good Prof/Bad Prof routine. Wanna guess who’s who? The Profe stands behind the Profa and smiles with a glazed look at Yadi. The Profa looks down at her notes and questions, and up to Yadi, so she can’t tell what he’s up to back there. On the white board there are all kinds of grammar terms. Yadi apparently hasn’t told them she’s Sra. Bueno Lindo because the Profa calls her Srta. Cachón. Hm. The Profa wants to know three works she’s recently read. Yadi tells her about the telenovelas and reality television. We hear her Mami’s cuckoos. Nope, the Profa means real books. Gulp. Nope, those put Yadi to sleep on the first page. The Profe steps in to save Yadi’s bacon and gives her an easier question. Does she like the movies? Sure, she loves the movies. Sure, it’s the ninth art. He corrects her, it’s the seventh. Right, whatever. He smiles a little nervously as the Profa scrutinizes Yadi with the disapproval growing visibly by the second. The Profe asks Yadi what movie marked a milestone in the history of the Mexican cinema? Yadi needs the term “milestone” (hito) clarified. The Profe takes the opportunity to move up close and ‘splain. With a smile. Ah, sure. Yadi names some trashy film. The Profa rolls her eyes and the Profe is charmed with Yadi’s sense of humor, and possibly her mini-falda. He keeps his hands in his pockets and we assume he has good reasons when faced with such pulchritude when his colleague is too fea for words. Speaking of the Queen of Rome, the Profa wants to change the topic. We note that she isn’t wearing a skirt down to her toenails at all. In fact, she’s wearing tasteless brown polyester pants that complete her schoolmarm wardrobe. [Ed. Note: Who said that? (looking over shoulder).] The Profa poses a theoretical question to Yadi about Yadi’s thoughts on the effects of the media on the democratization of the political elitists of the country, or some such. The cuckoos go off violently as Yadi is duh-impactada and the Profa crosses her arms in triumph. The Profe looks worried—he might lose this great catch of a student. The Profa turns back to him smugly and he looks away, hands still in his pockets. He smiles up at Yadi nervously and she looks back quizzically. Read that cluelessly.

Moni is dressed to kill, or at least seduce with a vengeance. Laura grins and oohs and wants to know what the plan is. Will Paula discover how unfaithful her hubby is tonight? Moni reports smugly that CL wants a separation. “You won, cousin!” Laura exults. Moni wants the separation to be long and torturous for them. She asks a big favor—that Laura evacuates and leaves the apartment to Moni for the night. Laura teases—what will you do? “One night” Moni cajoles—but doesn’t give a straight answer.

We hear the strains of Vivaldi’s “Spring” as Ana and Paula chat about the wonderful new gallery. Nidia is zonked in the back. Paula asks Ana what could she lose? It’s a stupendous opportunity. Ana wonders what it would be like to be a highly valued (cotizoda, one definition), famous painter. Paula loves the idea. She marvels that her mother hasn’t already had that status for years now.

Juanito, in his innocence, asks if Paula is Papi’s new girlfriend? Juan is actually stumped for a second. Who told him that? Oh, let me guess, Delfina, right? Juan rolls his eyes. Nope, Juanito’s just very observant. He figured it out himself. Maybe it was the deep kissing on Main Street at noon. He tries to explain about Paula being a very special type of friend. What are species/types of girlfriends? Juan thought bubbles, bemused about how to respond. How does he tell his son that his girlfriend has some other guy as hubby? Juan finally tells him she’s the kind every guy wants, they make the guys crazy for them. He thought bubbles that at least it’s not exactly a lie. He tells Juanito he loves Paula with his whole soul. Does she love him back? Well, of course, but she’s got a few little items to resolve. When she gets here, my happiness will be complete. Juan tells Juanito to imagine with her, Juanito and himself, it’d be complete. Juanito smiles back, pleased.

Moni welcomes CL in the background while we see a nice, full bottle of red wine and two glasses in the foreground. CL exclaims and Moni wonders why [yeah, right]. Well, she looks spectacular. Are they going? Moni turns back into the apartment and CL wonders what’s up. Moni explains she’s not in the mood for crowds, especially if they might see folks like Marely and Fern. How about they stay in? CL soon understands the direction of this…..sounds great. They can order whatever trips her trigger. (Se antoje, takes your fancy or the like). Whatever, just something tasty (rico). They exchange a bit of coquetry about ordering out and staying in, and Moni takes his hand to lead him to the sofa so she can go serve a copa or two. He gets to watch her retreating derriere and decides that he knows exactly what he wants to eat. [What? Is CL seeing a side of Monica he never saw when they were married?] Moni smiles to herself as she faces away from him to pour and he stares with glazed eyes from behind her.

It’s gotten dark and Paula’s thought bubbling as she drives. She hears Juan telling her how much he’s loved her since the first day he saw her, and nothing’s changed, he’s never stopped loving her. Palomita music plays and we discover that Juan’s in his bed/hammock with Juanito sound asleep beside him in the bed. Juan’s thought bubbling that he’s opened his heart a bit and aired out his trapped feelings of affection. She’s left him with a bit of hope. He’s convinced that their relationship is a battle between fate and love. Our view moves to the end of the hammock where Juan’s feet aren’t alone any more….there’s a set with painted toenails next to his. Our view pans up two naked pairs of legs to the p.j.’d Paula and Juan, wrapped together and trying to look comfortable in the undeniably narrow, sagging hammock. As he strokes a smiling Paula lovingly, he continues his thought bubble. It was only a matter of time until they were together. Who ever said that fate is stronger than love? Who? Juan and Paula smile lovingly at each other while Juanito sleeps on in the background, unaware that it’s the family hour on television and his Papi is…..oh, well, let’s leave it at that.

CL tells Moni at that time they were just at the point of discovering the “watchman/guard/keeper (vigilante).” Moni recalls she barely had enough time to throw her clothes on. Hm. Could it be they were a little on the wild side in their courting days? They keep recounting what might have happened if they’d been caught while they chop veggies and cook. Moni asks for the olive oil. They are so domestic. CL brings it to her and her hand touches his as he hands off the bottle. Is her stunned look for real, or is she just that good when she’s executing vengeance? CL asks if she felt it, too? Felt what? CL somehow straddles the back of her seat and kisses her head as he sits down, grasping her shoulders and kissing from behind. One of them better be careful how she handles that knife. Moni tells him that wasn’t the idea. [Yeah, right.] He’s determined, though. He’s sure she felt the same as he did just now. Moni jumps up, denying it. She reminds him about all the obstacles, especially Paula. And? This can’t happen. They’ll be sorry tomorrow. CL sweeps everything they’ve worked so hard to prepare right off the table and lifts Moni up onto it. After a Very Bad Editing Moment where we have clearly missed some action because it’s the family hour for this novela, we find CL now sweeping Moni off to the bedroom, with her legs locked around his waist as he rushes her off for some bliss. [Ed. Note: While this position may look provocative to some folks as he carries her to the bedroom in the heat of it all, her leg lock puts me in mind of a frog. Good thing she’s not wearing green.]

Yadi exultantly reports to the family (which now includes Fern and Delirio has seized the head of the table for himself) that the interview was tedious but she’s feeling optimistic. Nidia’s not home, but the cuckoos are still going off on Yadi’s behalf. Kike supportively asks when she’ll know if she’s been accepted? Tomorrow, but Yadi’s sure they’re going to validate all her paperwork. She left ALL the Profes with a good impression. Marely notes that she’s not seen Yadi so excited since the baby was born. Yadi admits she’s nervous, because there was this one long-faced, sourpuss Profa who’s clearly never had a husband darken her door. They all laugh about the old woman. Fortunately, the other Profe was super lovely. Kike begins to cloud up at Yadi’s over-enthusiastic description of this guy. He gave her confidence. Those (other) intellectuals who know everything and overwhelm one, no.

At another casita across the city, the long-faced sourpuss Profa drinks juice and watches her drop-dead gorgeous Profe dinner companion as they talk about the very same interview from another angle. She asks him how many years they’ve been married and he jerks up, startled at the question. HUH? The Virgin’s picture on the wall behind him surely will compel him to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. The Profa continues that in all these years, she’s never been through such an absurd interview. She nods emphatically and folds her schoolmarmish hands, watching for his response. The Profe closes his eyes and the Virgin apparently has left the building—Yadi’s coquettish face is simpering behind him in a nice thought bubble. Apparently the Virgin isn’t going to compel him to do much at the moment. The Profa wonders about the ignorance they saw—how does this chick dare to try to get into the Uni again? One wonders if she know what two and two is. The Profe wipes his mouth and defends Yadi, while her face reappears with a loving smile behind him. He tells his wife that Yadira Cachón wants to finish her studies and that’s good enough for him. [Yeah, right.] The Profa wants to know if he’s joking as she gets up to clear the table. The Virgin is back in her place. The Profa shoots back over her shoulder that this woman has not even two centimeters of brain. Yadi blows the Profe a kiss over his shoulder. The Profe hesitates a split second and then replies that Yadi seems like a girl who’s … very clever. His wife brings the coffee back and tells him to do her the favor of getting his feet back on the ground. [Call it like it IS, sister!] He has to recognize it. He just looks at her. More school fun coming up, folks!

Paula pulls up in front of a pink building. It’s been dark for a while, and Nidia’s talking in her sleep (at least she’s not snoring any more) while Ana dozes, too. Paula wakes them and Ana wants to know if they’re there yet. Nope, Paula’s tired and just can’t drive any more and their snoring was bugging her. Nidia says what snoring, I was sleeping like a baby. Sure, Ana retorts, like a baby polar bear. Paula grins at the viejas. They’ll have to leave in the morning to get home. Ana wants to know if she plans to call her hubby. Sure, but she’ll get the car to the garage while the viejas check into the hotel.

Meanwhile, it won’t matter a whole lot if Paula tries to make sure CL doesn’t worry about her coming home tonight, because he’s in bed with Moni, dozing a little and clearly well-satisfied. Lovely sheet pattern, that. Moni tells him it’s best if he goes. CL protests; no need. Moni insists. He wants to know what’s bothering her. All of it, Moni tells him. They have a half-hearted fuss with Moni averring this was a mistake and the phone rings. Guess who? Moni wants to know if he’s going to lie to Paula like he lied to Moni so many times. CL lies regarding his whereabouts. CL makes short work of asking Paula what’s up, don’t drive at night, take care, see you tomorrow, goodbye. Moni starts in on the fuss again and CL protests her attitude. She finally gets him out and says they won’t have “this kind of confusion” again. For the record, it didn’t look like confusion to us. It looked very well planned and implemented.

Dawn breaks in the D. F. and Consuelo is hard at work fixing CL’s breakfast. He tells her that Paula will get home today, but he’s not sure what time, so go ahead and do whatever you need to do. Consuelo tells him sure, sir, of course and runs off to call Moni. No rocket scientist, this.

Moni and Paula have their breakfast chat, too. CL fell more easily than she expected, Moni reports. It’s incredible, Laura observes, that men are so predictable and more than anything, unfaithful. [Ed. Note: one wonders about Laura, who appears to have no visible means of support. We’re not talking about her missing bra straps with this dress, either. How DOES the woman pay the rent?] Moni’s pleased she’s got him right where she wanted him. Right now, he must be swimming in doubts. What better way for him to receive his beloved wife? The phone rings; it’s Chelo. Moni wants to know how CL woke up. Chelo says he was a bit irritable, pensive, and reports that Paula’s on the way in. Moni replies she knew that, and it’s imperative that Chelo be very vigilant to let her know what all happens in that house. Chelo replies excitedly that she’ll get all the details for Moni, while we note CL coming into the room around the corner and hearing Every Word. Chelo cheerfully bids Moni farewell and is…..BUSTED! CL stands behind her, arms crossed. Consuelo. Don César Luis? Chelo is terrified. Seems to me, he says and shakes a finger gently at her, that we need to talk very, but very seriously.

Juan excitedly and very rapidly describes to Molo how they’ll get merchants to support the clothing, shoes, accessories for all the contestants, even the bikinis. That way, they won’t have to pay—they can’t. Molo wants to know who’s going to let go of their money for that? Juan declares they all will for the PR of showing off their clothing lines. Molo doesn’t think it’s that simple. Juan argues that it is. It’s an exchange; they sell their clothes and we sell the models. [Gentle Readers: You know how the credits roll in the intro, and we see scenes of Farell, then the new scenes they’ve added of Achichipico and Juan’s triumphant re-entry to his birthplace, and then Herlinda and Yolanda roll by? They’re history. But, the credits had one more chica there, and we get glimpses of her hot pants and cami with high-heeled sandals. Well, folks, here she is.] In walks the newest addition to Juan’s queue of admirers. She sets down her luggage and stops dead in her tracks as Juan dances away from her, mesmerized as we have been by his bodacious okole. Juan continues to babble on only to be interrupted and snap around to see this lovely vision. Juan stops dead in his tracks and gives her the once over. Multiple times. She puts her hands on her hips, saucily tosses her hair and asks with Very Red Lips if this is where she enters the beauty pageant? Juan and Molo make universally understood signs to each other. It seems they approve. The newcomer smiles smugly.

CL quietly asks Chelo how long she’s been Moni’s spy, as if that wasn’t an established fact in the last twenty seconds. Oh, sure, since you got here. Chelo protests that Moni asked her and she couldn’t say no. She’ll just go grab her stuff……CL tells her no, and informs Chelo that he’s got a better deal for her--she’s going to spy for him now. She’s going to tell Moni only what he wants her to know, and tell him everything Paula does when he’s gone. Chelo stupidly asks how she’s going to do that. He tells her easy—just like you’ve done this with me. It’s that, or leave here with a bad recommendation, and no one I know will hire you. She whines and CL tells her she really better appreciate that he’s giving her this opportunity to redeem herself with him. She shouldn’t have done it. Consuelo gives him the royal stink eye.

The chica in Juan’s office giggles, slaps her naked thighs, and tells them her name is Lorena Peláez. She wants to enter the contest. Molo and Juan during the commercial break somehow broke out of their stupor and she’s got one on each side of her now. Juan is pleased to meet her and introduces himself. He shakes her hand and she nearly shakes his arm off when she learns he’s the President. He pops his hand out of her death grip and introduces Molo, to whom she presents her hand for a kiss and barely spares a glance before she’s looking back seductively at Juan over her shoulder. That doesn’t stop Molo from looking her over again. She turns back to Juan and tells him “you’re the President, how funny. I was thinking there must be a pageant for handsome men along with this one and you were one of the contestants.” Surprise! Juan is flattered. He thought bubbles about this precious little gal who just threw him (?? Un chol?), or was it just him. He laughs and shakes a finger at her in jest, and tries to pass her off to Molo who can help her. Lorena’s not interested, she wants attention from the Prez himself. They can talk from the Queen to the President. She flips her hair and Juan grasps her shoulders to aim her back Molo’s way. Molo looks excited and Lorena’s not. Molo gives her the scoop and she plays bored while Juan assesses her credentials from behind. Molo does the same more obviously from the front—looks like she has all the requirements. Did she bring her paperwork? Of COURSE she did. They are conveniently on top of her suitcase. She’s got her birth certificate, voter’s registration, a medical certificate, and…..she looks back at Juan….asks for them to just tell her what more she needs and she’ll get them. She beams at Juan. Molo, from behind, informs Lorena that they’ll review it right away and make the entry. Lorena actually looks at Molo and marvels that it’s so easy! She bubbles that she’s sure the crown is hers. What do you think, Juan? Juan is impactado and has the good sense to shut up, but thought bubbles about this chick’s self-confidence. He starts to talk to her, Srta…..she interrupts because he’s supposed to call her Lorena. Molo gestures to him over Lorena’s shoulder. She leans forward to give him a bit more of a view—heck, all he has to do is stand a little closer, because she’s a good foot shorter than he is even with the heels. Juan wants to know how she heard about the contest. It’s all the gossip where she lives. Juan is pleased with the publicity. She always wanted to be the queen of something, and this is hers. It’s the news of the day. We see Juan babble on to her while we hear him babble on to himself in a thought bubble about the spreading fame of the first international beauty pageant for the Anthurium Queen.

Pastor is serving a simple but elegant meal for Ivonne in his new home at Anga’s. He comments on her spying on him. She asks what does he think? He chuckles about how great it is, CL’s found a Mata Hari and she’s run right to him to let him know. She shrugs --what does he want, since Pastor’s her friend? Pastor points out that CL must be running scared if he took such a risk to send her of all people (mandar precisamente a ti). Ivonne tells Pastor CL is scared to death because the clients are dropping like flies. Pastor is ecstatic that CL is so sure of Pastor’s skills as a marketing executive. Ivonne wants to know what message Pastor wants her to take back to that fool? They play out some scenarios—Pastor wants her to brainwash CL and make him believe that everything is wonderful and Pastor is a business czar. He might as well get an ulcer obsessing that Pastor is going to leave him in ruins. Ivonne tells Pastor whatever he wants, she’ll report. She laughs that CL will be up against the wall and explode with fury.

Those extra tall sandals make Lorena just tall enough to lean fetchingly over the desk for Molo’s benefit. Juan, on the other side of the room at his desk, hyperventilates at the rear view. He could fall backward out of his chair if he’s not careful. Lorena asks Molo if that’s it, and he says that’s it (ya?), so she spins around to catch Juan ogling. He snaps to and assures her in his most firm and businesslike voice that pretty soon they’ll have the date for the pageant, etc. They’ll let her know. Lorena takes a seat on top of Molo’s desk (when I visited NZ, I was told it is Very Bad Form to sit on a table or desk, to put one’s bum where food might be served. It’s a major faux pas to even lean one’s okole against a desk or table, same reason. It’s a Maori cultural taboo, if I remember correctly. Lorena would be a social outcast in New Zealand. Can we just send her there and get it over with, folks?). She announces that she’s not interested in leaving. She wants to hang out in Achichipico and get the lay of the land. [!] She’s got nothing better to do back home, so she’s staying. Molo is beginning to get nervous. She asks if Juan would be so good as to take her to her hotel. Juan jumps up and works his level best to pass her off to Molo. Molo gestures wildly behind Lorena—he doesn’t want that duty, either. For two guys who like to ogle so much, they sure don’t follow through when the opportunity presents itself, do they? ;-) Lorena turns to Molo as Juan gestures in Molo’s direction and Molo pastes on a smile. Juan thought bubbles—chinches bravas, just when one makes a commitment to fly right, women one hasn’t even gone looking for begin to line up, despite our best intentions. Lorena slinks across the room back to Juan’s desk, looking very 40s Garbo-ish. She plops her hands down on his desk, giving him a view if he looks down. Juan keeps eye contact. Sort of . She’s really lots shorter so he has to look down even for eye contact. “We’ll see each other later?” The question is more accusatory than interrogatory. “You won’t miss it, eh?” She taps his lips with her forefinger. Sheesh. As she skip walks out the door, she claps and giggles like a five year old. Sheesh. Molo grins at Juan and they both chuckle…..Methinks Lorena Peláez is Big Trouble.

Ana and Paula have finally made it home, but Nidia is with them. Ana asks why she asked for a taxi. Seems Nidia’s sparing them the trouble of stopping by her place since everyone’s so tired and they’ve been on their okoles so long. Ana is worried about Nidia, though. Nidia assures Ana she’s fine. She was just a bit tipsy (bebercua?). She wonders if she uttered anything indiscreet, or wasn’t singing clearly, or what? Ana chuckles at her, teases and assures her she was amusing and nothing was out of line. The taxi honks outside and they say their farewells. Ana firmly tells Nidia to get well from this hangover (cruda). Hint, hint, don’t keep drinking, Nidia. Nidia tells Ana with Delirio in her house that’s impossible. I see her point. Nidia thanks Ana for everything. She’ll come by for Ana early so they can scout out the place for the gallery. Nidia’s theme plays: La Habañera from Bizet’s Carmen, to which Nidia can mince perfectly. She gathers her luggage and leaves with a farewell that Ana can give to Paula.

Speaking of the Q of R, Paula is in her old bedroom thought bubbling Juan’s words to her—he knows she’s a married woman but he can’t forget her. She’s a woman who profoundly loves her husband…..Paula is transported to Achichipico to hear Juan saying the words in person. It’s not important to him if she’s married. He loves her with his whole soul. They kisssssssss…..and Paula’s back at Ana’s, touching her lips and asking God for illumination on this situation. We are reminded that any similarity to reality is purely a coincidence.

Monday: It’s better than never, folks. Paula has stuff to resolve. CL has –a HALO? Or is it just fire and brimstone glowing behind him? Paula cuts to the chase and confesses she was with Juan.

Vocabulary –such as it is, is embedded this week again.

Jeanne

Labels: Juan

Braulio has a talk with Hugo. Isn't it amazing how much Braulio looks like Pee Wee Herman? Braulio tells Hugo that Mili has come back. Hugo tells him that his hope is that Mili won't believe in Alex.
Hugo then tells Alex that Mili is back. Alex goes looking for her in the kitchen and finds out she's in with Connie.

Connie has called Mili in for a talk. They talk about the conditions under which she will stay--no more fighting with his wife and daughter. Mili agrees, but she asks that he tell them to stop picking on her. She says it's her father's fault for why she's the way she is. The creep took off before she was born and left her mother suffering. Her mother died, and so on. She talks about how she lost parents and he lost a child. Since Granny R is taking her in as a substitute daughter, they can comfort each other. She asks him to give her a hug in her childlike way and dives in. He holds his arms out, not sure what to do, then he hugs her close and buries his head in hers. He is near tears as he hugs his long-lost child for the first time. If anyone did not tear up while watching this amazing scene, I give up. You could feel all his regrets communicated in a few seconds.

Just then, Alex bursts in. He tells Pop to get his hands off Mili. He can't believe it--first you attack Andrea, and now Mili. Mili reveals that it was she who asked for the hug. She says she did it just because she felt like it. Alex is impactado. He runs out. Connie asks her what that was all about. Nothing, she replies. She exits saying con su permiso.

Alex is crying in his room, saying "you are worthless, Milagros." Mili is crying in her bunk bed.

Morgan is talking with Horacio about Horacio's two women, but I'm not sure what he really meant or what Morgan knows.

Regina tells Rocky to clean up Mili's meal. She left it overnight and it's full of ants. This makes no sense. Is she to be allowed to be a slob?

Snobby and her friend are talking about how Bobby is Snobby's secret admirer. They decide to play a trick on him. They call him and invite him to a party. He takes down the address, exulting at his success with Val. It's probably going to turn out to be a warehouse in a bad neighborhood.

Connie meets with Peralta, aka blackmailer guy. Is this Burgay from Amar? Yes, says IMDB--the actor's name is Arsenio Campos. He congratulates Connie. Apparently he's met with someone and it went well. They'll use the New Year's party to make some candidacy announcement.

Now Horacio corners Roxana in the garden. He tells her that he has to talk. He had looked for her at her sister's place years ago, but he couldn't find her. Roxana scoffs that she hasn't heard from her in years. Then she says "she would be proud of you." I am completely confused with this, but it appears from later dialogue that Horacio didn't know he had a daughter, and Roxana is referring to the daughter here.

Now Luciana comes over, and the two get all giggly about Luciana's flower collection. I have trouble seeing Luciana as a member of the garden club, especially since Horacio is doing all the work. Anyway, these two gals are new BFFs. Perhaps they'll play a few hands of canasta later.

Granny R wants to know why Mili is upset. To cheer her up, she tells Mili that tomorrow Mili will be invited to the party. Mili figures she's supposed to serve the hors d'oeuvres (bocadillas) and drinks, but no--Granny R assures her that she'll be attending as a member of the family. She will come down the stairs like a princess. Mili revels in the fact that the family will be "a parar de pestanas." I wish I could find a translation for this, as it appears to be a colorful way of saying "really pissed off."

Horacio and Morgan rehash in the kitchen again. Horacio wonders who Roxana could be referring to when she said "she'd be proud of you." Lina comes in on the tail end and hears them mention someone named Roxana. She tells them that Roxana is her mother's name. Note to Horacio: Get a clue!

Alex is smooching dispassionately with Andrea. He tells her the immortal words that every girl wants to hear: He needs her to forget Mili. Golddigger that she is, however, this is music to her ears, but she has some conditions: She says she's not coming back to him unless she's sure of him. She wants to be his wife. Alex flashes back on Mili and is not immediately forthcoming with an enthusiastic response. Andrea says she's waiting. Alex chokes out the equivalent of "well, I guess so." No problem! Andrea is ecstatic and immediately begins planning for wedded bliss. They will announce the engagement at the big party.

Granny continues planning with Mili. She reminds Mili that Alex told her he loved her. Mili tells her it's just more of his cruel joking. The joke is that she loves him, but he feels nothing for her.

Mili leaves. Regina says to herself that the old history will not be repeated, not this time.

Horacio and Lina talk about Roxana. Lina asks how he knows Roxana. I didn't quite follow what he said.

Luciana is chatting in the garden with her new BFF, Roxana. Roxana spots Horacio talking to Lina. Then Lina comes over to ask if she can bring them a drink. She leaves, and Roxana comments that she notices that girl and her father sure spend a lot of time together. Luciana is completely puzzled. She says that Lina's father doesn't work here. Roxana says she thought Lina's father was the gardener, meaning Horacio. Luciana tells Roxana that she's a real comedian. But she's happy to have her over--she needs a good friend.

Mili is regaling the other maids with the tale of her upcoming debut. This is pretty cute, I thought. She is acting out broadly how she will be presented. Everyone oohs and aahs, but Mili said, don't be so happy--it won't be so great when she tumbles down the stairs and makes a fool of herself.

Luciana comes in to see Regina. She calls her usted, which I find surprising. Is it typical that people keep using usted with their in-laws? Regina wants to know why she decided not to go away. Luciana says she's afraid of what Connie would do to her son if she left. Granny reminds her that she is really in charge, and she'd never allow anything wrong to happen. Then they move on to the subject of a possible divorce or separation. Luciana says that Regina would be very happy if they got divorced. Regina denies it. She says she's sorry that things didn't work out. Luciana calls her a hypocrite. She says Regina really wanted Connie to marry a servant.
Moreover, Regina doesn't know what it's like to sleep with someone who doesn't love you. Regina tells her that she's wrong. If Luciana only knew . . . Hmm. I wonder what Regina's back story is.

Val is telling Andrea about some photo shoot and models' party she's going to the next day. Andrea tells her that she has to come to the New Year's party because of the big engagement announcement. Val is thrilled. Meanwhile, this is all going on in front of Karla.

Alex is now meeting with Regina, who is telling him all about how she's going to have him introduce his novia Mili. He tells her that things have changed. One day you're in, and one day you're out. Granny tells him to quit the Heidi Klum stuff. He says something confusing about it will be better this way if they break off. There was something about having no memory, but it made no sense to me.

Granny castigates Alex--he can't let Mili suffer. Please gratify her whim, and do it for her. Alex reluctantly agrees. Boy, this party is going to be fun!

The next scene shows him talking to Andrea. He says that Granny wants him to present Mili to the family. Andrea says the she hopes he told her no. Er, no. Andrea then decides that it's not a bad idea for Mili to be a princess for a day. Then she'll be put in her place.

Mili is in her bunk bed. Melancholy piano theme.

More desultory kissing between Alex and Andrea. He is flashing back on Mili again. He holds Andrea limply and tells her he's not in the mood--he has a headache! She reminds him that that's what women say! But she doesn't really seem to mind, as long as she's going to get that ring on her finger.

Padre and Sor are still plotting on what to do about a problem like Milagros. They decide they'll tell Connie she must not go back to the house--it's the only way to separate them.

Bobby talks to Val about the party again. He leaves with Alex to go shopping. Val quickly calls her other partner in crime and tells her that the plot is working. Bobby is really falling for that fake party story.

Val calls Morgan over to get him to drive her somewhere. Morgan says he can't--he's driving Regina and Mili shopping. What? Spoily Spice asks Granny if she could actually be using HER chauffeur to drive . . . THAT (pointing at Mili and cringing). Granny tells her too bad--she can drive herself. Val says she doesn't like to drive. Well, you can call a cab--or take the subway. Be careful you don't fall on the rails! Mili then comes over and whispers triumphantly to Val that she should "chupate esta, mandarina," or suck it up, tangerine! For good measure, she makes a sucking sound. Hah!

Damien now tells Hugo that he wants him to come down to the party. Hugo wants to know why--does Pop want everyone to view his crippled handiwork? Damien tells Hugo to stop being a victim. He also wants sonny boy to meet his new girlfriend. This makes Hugo really mad!

Mili and Granny have a lot of fun shopping. Mili trips on some stilettos, and hilarity ensues. Mili and Granny stroll the mall in matching soccer shirts. Morgan brings up the rear loaded down with packages.

Meanwhile, Alex and Bobby are shopping for an engagement ring, but the whole time Alex is talking about Mili. Bobby tells him that he's had enough with hearing about "Carlitos." It's a wonder they didn't run into Granny and Mili.

Karla corners Damien in the hall and accuses him of inviting his new girlfriend over before the paint is dry. She calls him trash. She says she was going to be rid of the uniform, but now she won't He tells her to get one thing clear--he's the boss and she's the servant (he's not even the boss--what a creep). Once a servant, always a servant. She says she swears he'll regret what he's doing (using the tu form). He says, let me make one thing perfectly clear--don't you tutear me, you igualada (uppity lowlife). Double creep!

Mili's now talking about all her new clothes in the kitchen. Oops. Karla breaks the news that Alex is going to announce his engagement to Andrea. She says she heard it from Val. Mili is impactada.

Connie meets with the Padre to discuss the upcoming election. Padre will support Connie. Connie thanks him, saying it's good to have a sacerdote linked to the family. Yes, everyone should have his own personal sacerdote.

Mili is now in Hugo's room crying bitterly. Alex has played his games for the last time. This time she's going far away. No, Hugo says--she promised Granny she would go to the party, and she wouldn't want to disappoint Granny--trust him he says, and play along.

Bobby is making his way to the "party." He knocks on the door of an apartment, and a fat woman answers. He tries to say it's a mistake. Where's Gisele Bundchen? No, she says. You're Bobby, right? We'll spend new year together and have breakfast. She pulls him in and closes the door.

The party is now in full swing. Peralty introduces his wife to Damien. Damien introduces his girlfriend Roxana. Damien meets the Padre and tells him the good news that Alex is announcing his engagement and introduces Andrea. Padrea is relieved at this good choice--anyone who isn't Mili.

Now it's time for Mili to come down. Alex starts heading up the stairs. Andrea takes a look and mutters that the chamagosa doesn't know what's going to hit her. Mili poses at the top of the balcony, and she looks really pretty. Alex hesitates in going up the stairs, but Granny encourages him to get going. Just then someone appears at Mili's side. It's Hugo, dressed in a tuxedo, and WALKING! He offers his arm to Mili, and she takes it, looking triumphantly at her subjects below: They are impactados, as the chords of shock music plays.

Preview: A bar fight where Alex gets hurt and is rushed to the hospital. Mili cries over an unconscious Alex and says she loves him. She says it's all her fault.

Labels: guapos

My Spanish isn’t that great, so additions and corrections are very welcome!


We start off with the tail-end of yesterday’s show: Damien is telling Lina that he has a new girlfriend who is way classier than she is and that she’ll be coming to the house for dinner. Lina tosses a glass of water on him. In the driveway: Mili is trying to wrestle her bag from Braulio. Connie pulls up in his fancy car, tells her to get in.

Now to the new stuff: We are in an empty apartment with nice wood floors – it’s Bobby’s new place, and he and Alex are admiring it. It’s expensive, but Alex says they will share expenses. It sounds like Bobby and Alex are going to be roomies. Alex brings up the topic of the newfound but unfound brother – Bobby offers to help find him, but Alex points out the Abue had already hired 10 detectives over the years, and if they can’t find the brother, what chance do he and Bobby have of finding him? None.

At the house, Damien is introducing Roxanna to Luci and Valeria. They feel him out about the nature of the relationship. An old friend, says Damien. A dear friend, adds Roxanna. Luci wonders why he’s never mentioned her before. Damien says they’ve always been to busy talking about themselves to pay any attention. Whadda guy!

Roxanna, who has much better social skills than Damien, asks about Luci’s flowers. Luci offers to show what’s left, namely her orchids. They are about to repair to the garden when Lina comes in. Both Lina and Roxanna look impactada. The two ladies head for the garden and Lina smiles.

Now Mili and Connie are at the convent. Mili: You didn’t say one word on the drive here. Are you firing me? What did I do? Connie says “nothing.” Mili: I want you to say it to my face, are you firing me? Connie: I don’t want you in my house any more.

Luci and Roxanna are looking at the orchids. Roxanna reaches out to touch one, but Luci gestures her away. Luci explains that gardening is her therapy. She has a gardener, but you know the saying – if you want something done right, do it yourself. Roxanna asks about the maid they just saw – what is her name? Lina. Roxanna asks if that’s a nickname, and Luci says she doesn’t deal with matters concerning the servants, that’s the butler’s job. Braulio approaches and tells Luci she has a call from Italy. Both leave Roxanna alone with the orchids. “It’s her!” says Roxanna “Adelina.”

Now we’re in the convent office and Connie is talking to the Mother Superior and the good padre. Connie asks them to keep the secret. He says if they tell, it will destroy his family and his career. But Mili IS your family, she’s your daughter! Connie:You don’t understand the details, please just believe me. I know it’s expensive to keep her here – I’ll pay. He writes a check. The MS says they’ll do as he says. Connie gives her the photo of Rosario and asks them to give it to Mili and just tell her they found it. (Of course this is the Roxanna half of the photo that he had ripped in half, - Mili had taken the Constancio half from the wastebasket of his office, and then Braulio found it and kept it.)

Mili is in the dorm of the convent, talking to her BFF Gloria. Mili doesn’t seem too upset, given what has just happened. Gloria points out that Mili said she’d missed the convent. And Mili said she did, she isn’t unhappy, but she’d like to know why she was fired. She guesses it is all the social goofs she made. Oh, and the photo! What photo, says Gloria? Mili doesn’t answer. Still, it’s okay, she just wishes that they had given her the chance to say goodbye. She names some of the nice people at casa Belmonte and says she’ll miss them. She notes that the chain is to her medallion is broken and hopes it doesn’t mean bad luck.

We’re in Regina’s room. Carla comes in with tea. Regina asks where’s Mili? She didn’t bring me breakfast either. Carla says she has no idea. Regina tries to get something out of her, but Carla tells her to enjoy her tea and turns to go. Regina tells her to go find Mili and bring her right away. Carla with her back to her is snotty, chomps her gum and rolls her eyes, but Regina doesn’t see.

Roxana is alone in the orchid greenhouse. Horacio sees her, is impactado. She sees him and looks a bit sad.

We’re back in Regina’s room, and Alex is asking her if she’s coming down for dinner. Braulio comes in, asks if she called. Regina says I wasn’t looking for you, I was looking for Mili. She’s gone, he says. She doesn’t work here any more. Alex and Regina are impactados. Regina says was she fired? She’s my employee! Braulio says no, she just left. She wanted to go and Constancio was kind enough to drive her. Alex says it’s his fault. They were talking and Mili was upset. He says he will go straighten everything out. He leaves. Regina asks how she could just leave like that without saying goodbye, after all the affection she gave her? Braulio says some women are like that. His sister for instance. Regina points out that at least his sister had a good reason.

Back in the garden, Horacio utters the immortal novela words: Que haces aqui? Roxanna utters them back. Horacio says he’s the gardener. Roxanna: Still? Horacio says he’s proud of it. And here it is 20 years later and she never gave him the opportunity to explain what happened with her girlfriend. She waves that off and Luci appears. Roxanna says she has a terrible headache and the two ladies retire to the house. Horacio looks after them and if he has any sense, he’s thinking he had a close call, almost marrying her. But probably not.

Mili is on the convent steps – she spots Homeless Hugo in the bushes, runs over and gives him a big hug. Where have you been – I haven’t seen you since Christmas. Oh, I’ve been looking for you, he says, but you’re not out of the house much. Soccer today? He asks. No, I came for another reason. She admits she’s been fired. Hugo is surprised. Why? I’d sure like to find out why, she says.

Roxanna and Damien are on the huge impressive garden steps. Casa Belmonte seems to be a villa. She comments that the house is great. He asks if he likes her family and she says she doesn’t really know them, but she thinks she’ll get along great with his sister. Does the sister like to gamble? She’s into other things, he demurs. Braulio comes to get them for dinner. Damien says he has to make a call and takes off. Roxanna asks Braulio about Lina’s name. It’s a nickname, he says, for Adelina. Roxanna: Ah!

Horacio is peeking at the big family diner. He tells Rorgan that that is the woman he talked about before, his big love.

Homeless Hugo and Mili are sitting on the lawn, picking at the vegetation and talking. He says that Hugo said he loves her. Mili says he still loves his dead girlfriend. She doesn’t want him to suffer. HH says everyone loves you, Hugo, the cousin, and now me. Mili: don’t start with me! You know what, she says, I’d like him to decide to get up and come see me. He shouldn’t lie to his family. HH: Hugo’s not a bad guy. Mili: I know, I like him. If he doesn’t come see me, I won’t see him again. HH: Maybe he’ll do it for you.

We’re at the big family dinner. Carla is pouring water and has to pour for Roxanna. She and Luci look daggers at each other. Luci gives a fake smile and says how perfect Roxanna is for her brother. Valeria comments they are just friends. For now, says Roxanne. Valeria notes that they can all celebrate, Mili is gone. Some at the table are surprised. Connie: let’s change the subject, how are your travel plans coming, my love? Alex leaves the table. Fun times at Casa Belmonte!

Carla is looking at herself in a hall mirror. She remembers Mili saying that Hugo likes her (Mili) just the way she is. Carla wonders how she can get out of this uniform. She mentions Damien’s child. Maybe she is pregnant after all? Or planning to be?

Mili is praying aloud to Christ. She asks for advice, and asks him to strike Alex with lightening. Then she softens and says maybe send him a dove – to do it on his head. Make it a big dove.

We’re outside the house – Valeria has caught up with Alex by his car. She wants to know what about the supposed brother. Alex fudges a little, then says it’s true, Abuela confirmed it. With a servant. This last horrifies Valeria. She says she doesn’t want to find out where this child is – she doesn’t want a bastard for a brother. She leaves. Alex gets a big bird plop in his hair. This is why she’s named Milagros. Somebody call the Vatican.

All of the staff except Braulio are in the kitchen. They are sad about Mili, and about how she didn’t say goodbye. Horacia looks very thoughtful and Socorro says it must be because of Mili. Even though there’s another tray to be served, Carla says she’s so sad she’s going to her room and flounces out.

As an aside, Rorgan says to Horacio that he guesses he’s really sad about the old girlfriend in there at dinner. Horacio says shut up.

Valeria is lounging in the den, listening to a music tape. From the off-key singing we know it’s Bobby. Lina comes in and comments that Bobby has a great voice. Bobby! Valeria is stunned and not happy.

We have a close-up of Braulio’s gloves. He is straightening a room, a man’s room judging by the shirt hanging in the background. Whose is it? There is a photo of Alex on the dresser.

Mili is talking to the padre. She really wants to know why she was dismissed. She keeps asking and finally he says he’ll tell her the truth. They both walk off, talking.

Braulio is looking in a box in the room – he puts the half photo of Constancio in it, looks at other photos in the box of a woman. There is a puppet on the bed. He takes out a photo of the woman pregnant, shows it to the puppet, keeps it. He unlocks the door from the inside and furtively leaves.

Luci is packing in her bedroom, and Damien is trying to convince her that it’s better for everyone if she stays and doesn’t make a scandal. She tells him how dangerous Connie is, how he threatened to kill Alex. He’s a monster. Oh, he was probably just mad, says Damien. Don’t worry. He offers her a drink.

Mili and her BFF are talking. What did the padre say? Mili says he said to just stay in the convent like nothing happened. A sister appears to tell Mili there’s a young man to see her. It’s…..not Alex. It’s Hugo! He’s up and dressed. Mili throws her arms around him. Yes, he walked there. Does his family know? No, he snuck out.

Carla is trying to unlock a room. Braulio sees her and is furious. Carla is snotty, and says she just wanted to help. It’s Hugo’s room and Braulio says nobody but him serves Hugo. She leaves, he goes in and looks around frantically – the wheelchair is empty.

Alex is at the convent looking for Mili. Sor Cachete tells him that Mili is off with a boyfriend and isn’t that nice? She deserves to be happy.

We’re in the foyer. Valeria, Damien and Andrea are happily discussing Constancio’s future while he preens. Valeria asks why he let Mili go. He says she’s vulgar, uneducated. Mili bursts in and says it’s all lies. Why doesn’t he tell everyone the truth?
Look at your faces! Luci wants call the police to throw her out. Mili says, this man lied to you. Constancio says yes, this girl is my… is my…..

We are at the convent. Sor Cacheta is telling Alex that everyone thought that he was the boyfriend, but they’re glad he isn’t. Why? Alex wants to know. Because…she catches herself. Because Mili doesn’t really care for you. Alex asks if the so-called boyfriend has a beard. No. Alex wonders if HH has shaved. He leaves and the Sor begs God for forgiveness for lying.

Back in the foyer, Mili tells the “truth” that she heard – they didn’t want to pay her wages. Braulio bolts upstairs to tell Regina. He explains to Regina and says Mili is downstairs calling her son a cheapskate and saying she doesn’t care about money, she’ll work for free, so there. Regina is thrilled. Braulio leaves to go get Mili, but there she is at the door. Mili and Regina hug. Sweet.

In the lobby, the family is telling Constancio that that was a stupid pretext.

At the convent, the MS superior is telling Gloria and Sor Cachete that Mili can’t just come and go.. and with a boyfriend! The padre comes in puffing – Mili has gone back to work at Casa Belmonte!

The kitchen staff are very happy to have Mili back. Braulio takes her out in the hall and asks what’s with the photo of Constancio? She said she found it in the trash. Back in the kitchen, he tells her to stick to her job and don’t have personal relationships with the family (what about Regina?).Constacio comes in the kitchen: I want to talk to you….

Tomorrow: Roxanna tells Horacio to leave things as they are. I’m glad you found her. Horacio: who? Alex tells Andrea he’ll marry her. Constancio and Mili are hugging tenderly. Alex bursts in and protectively tears her away.

Labels: guapos

From Yesterday - Monica asks Marely to keep her yap shut about seeing her and CL at the restaurant. Nidia call Ana's room from reception but Ana's too hung over to take the call. Paula tells Ana that she and Juan are 'past history'.

Monica asks Marely if Paula has been seeing Juan being CL's back. When Mari denies it Moni makes a sour face.

Nidia, returned from Ana's hotel, councils Juan on not giving up on Paula. Then, weary of not having herself as the main subject, asks Juan if Delfina knows that she and Anga were...well..that Anga was the love of Nidia's life. Juan surprises her by saying he thinks Anga himself might have told Delfi.

Pastor and Anga are discussing Pastor's business proposal. Pastor says Anga won't be spending per se, but rather investing. He shows Anga his financial projections and Anga looks thoughtful. He sees Kike and asks shouldn't Kike be going home about now? Kike says he'd rather hang around work because Yadi's mad at him.

At Casa Cachón Yadi and Delirio argue about Kike not being home. He's probably spilling his guts to Marely about the Cachón thievery. This is all Delirio's fault. No it's all Yadi's fault. Suddenly Mari arrives home and Delirio and Yadi stop bickering so they can act suspiciously innocent.

Anga's helper, weird hair guy (I forget his name), finds Kike in a deep slumber and cheerily wishes him a good morning. Kike says if it's morning why is it dark outside? Weird hair guy says it's the total eclipse, didn't Kike hear about it? Kike dashes home thinking he's in big trouble because he's been out all night. The goofy thing is, he's wearing a watch, so why doesn't he look at it? Oh well, it's a telenovela.

Moni and Laura have a conversation about what's going on with CL and Paula. Moni says that when Pau called CL he was as cool as a cucumber. Laura comments that CL has the self control of a monk. (Is that a saying? Because when I think of CL I don't think monk.) Moni tells Laura that she can't wait to see the outcome of this story.

Herli, Molo and his guitar stroll through a dark alley under the Achichipico moonlight. He tells her that when Juan finally saw Paula, instead of saying what he really felt he threw toads and snakes at her (ranted and raved). Afterward he was like an animal in pain. "Poor Juan," clucks Herli. She says she has an idea and drags Molo back up the alley.

Nidia, who apparently has the stamina of an ox, is strutting about while her gal pals are still trying to sleep off their breakfast hangovers. Nidia struck out with Ana and her next victim is Delfina. Nidia goes to Delfi's room for a little chat. She wants to talk about Angarita. She tells Delfi that she knew Anga from before, in fact he was the love of her life! She says she's a bit put out because he never mentioned her to Delfi. "Aha! So you're the one he was trying to forget. But he never mentioned a name," says Delfi. Nidia's thrilled to at least have been mentioned. "We shared a man," she tells Delfi. "And we both lost him," Delfi responds. NoNoNoNo corrects Nidia, she hefts her chest and announces that she and Anga still have An Opportunity.

Juan sits by the fountain mooning over Pau, (do we see him wipe away a tear?). Molo approaches and tells Juan that Herli wants to talk to him. Molo dolefully departs. Juan thinks she's come to make a play for him, but he's wrong. Herli tells him shame on him for saying stupid things to Paula. She says it's not important what Paula said, but rather what she did. "She came looking for you Juan!" I'm not sure, but I think she concludes with "She's not betraying you Juan, just because you've betrayed every woman who has ever loved you." Juan is impactado.

Herli joins Molo back at his room and she tells him she really told Juan some things. He supposes now that Juan has dumped Paula he's looking at Herli with new eyes, right? She laughs and says she only sees Juan as a good friend. Her heart has been touched by the man who enchanted her with his remarks, with his songs, with his gaze. To her he's the best man in the world...and he's standing right in front of her. Finally they kiss, sort of.

Kike shows up at home with the lame excuse that he was out looking at the eclipse. Yadi's all 'Que the hell and who cares anyway?' They have the same argument as yesterday but this time with the baby gurgling and squawking in the background. Kike fumes and Yadi insists she won't turn against her Mami. She shakes her finger and tells him he'd better not leave her, then she turns out the light and flops under the covers leaving him sitting on the end of the bed.

Back in Molo's love shack the love-struck and giddy Molo lays a big wet one on Herli. She tells him she loves him and he reveals that marrying her is his life's dream. Then there is a badly edited cut of him standing there holding her as if he's going to carry her off except that he's not going anywhere. It's odd.

Paula's on the phone lying to CL again. She says Ana ate something and got sick so they'll be home tomorrow. She hears Juan's angry words in her head. He's telling her off, that she thinks she has the whole world at her feet. (How true!!)

Cut to Juan thinking of Paula's words, then Nidia's, then Herlinda's.

The bells of Achichipico toll across a clear, sunny morning. Delfi and Nidia bid their farewells to Las Davila. Nidia tells Pau that running away is never the answer but oh well, bon voyage. But wait! It's Juan! He approaches Paula, looking like a wounded animal.

Mooooo! A bovine creature loudly heralds the next scene. Molo drops Juanito off at school and explains to him that Juan is busy attending to his future.

Juan looks anguished. He tells Pau that she can't leave because...well, because he said a lot of stupidities and he's sorry, will she forgive him? Pau says she's sorry, she acted like a child, they were both silly, OK? Juan says no, it won't be OK until he says what he came to say, because what he holds in his chest is burning him up. The thing is, his feelings for her have never changed. Since the day he met her he hasn't stopped loving her, not for one day. Ana, Delfi and Nidia (having a hot flash) watch and sigh loudly into the commercial.

Juan tells Pau the he couldn't forget her. She's the one that he'd love to marry, to have as his wife. She smiles and says he won't believe it but she's been waiting to hear those words for a long time. She came to his pueblo only because she wanted to see him, to have him in front of her, because she couldn't get him out of her heart. "You're not just sugar-coating this for me, are you?" he asks. She laughs and tells him what she feels is much greater than what even she thought. Juan gives her a huge kiss as Molo joins the three ladies. "Did I miss anything?" Molo asks.

Anga arrives home to find a salad-faced monster in his house. But no, it's only Pastor giving himself a yogurt-cucumber facial. Anga mocks him and tells him he's too old for this silliness. Pastor retorts that with his blotchy skin Anga could use a yogurt-honey-strawberry facial. Anga looks at his skin in the mirror, hmmmm...the record scratches, Anga composes himself, and he tells Pastor to get his butt out of bed and get to work!

We have a long scene of Juan and Paula with the tres amigas in the background cheering Juan on. He tells Pau how much he loves her. She says she's a married woman. (Do I hear an anvil creaking?) Juan suggest she separate and soon. He wants to get back on track now that he's reunited with his love. (He calls her licenciada; is that odd?) The tres amigas sigh and fan themselves. Juan tells Pau that divorce is the only option; he wants to be her partner and to love her but only if it's legal and on the up and up. She kisses him and says divorce is a radical decision, she needs time. (Creak...) He says he'll wait till the end of time just so she knows he won't be secondary, no he won't accept that situation. By the way, he adds, a lot has happened since he last saw her. There has been an important change in his life that he needs to tell her about.

Molo, inspired by Juan's passion, proclaims his love to Herlinda and kisses her in the street. In public!

The tres amigas stroll through town on cloud 9 thanks to the Juan and Paula show. Nidia blathers on and on that nothing, absolutely nothing can spoil her day. She doesn't see the implacable hammer of destiny over her head. The town operator spots them and comes out with a message for Doña Delfina's prima (Nidia). "Señora, your husband called to say he's out of jail and he's waiting for you at home." Nidia almost faints while Delfi and Ana support her.

Juan proudly introduces Licenciada Paula to his office. She asks what he does for work and he tells her he's an exporter of Anthuriums. His partners are Molo, Anga, and the local Chavez family. Paula is impactada (and maybe a little mad?) and observes it's because of him that Farell lost the Japanese deal. He adamantly tells her it was a coincidence; he was in the right place at the right time. Looks like I was wrong; she's not pissed off, she's happy for him. He says he did it all for her so he could put the world at her feet. She tells him she doesn't care about Things. He tells her not to lie; one can't live on love alone.

"Aniushka" (as Nidia calls Ana) convinces Nidia to call Delirio though for the life of me I can't figure out why she should care.

Juan shows Paula his Anthurium greenhouse and he tells her his grand plans to put Achichipico on the map. The beauty contest is to show off all the local beauties and to make the citizens feel proud. Call me suspicious but I for one haven't forgotten that Paula is still married to Juan's nemesis.

Delirio tries to scold Nidia for being in Juan's pueblo and for putting the horns on him. She gives him a verbal smack-down. Delirio grovels and Nidia hangs up on him.

Juan tells Pau that his pueblo is only one of many that Mexico has forgotten. But will they sit with arms crossed feeling less Mexican while waiting around for the government to do something? Heck no, the desire to succeed and move forward is deep inside all their hearts, and where there is will and solidarity there is action. Paula tells him he sounds like a politician, no offense because in their country most politicians are fake. (Wow, some very interesting social comments going on here.) Juan responds that a lot of people are honest and will do the right thing. Paula suggests he become the Municipal President. He says he just wants to grow the best anthuriums in the world.

Kike scolds weird hair guy for making him look like a buffoon. He says he's the boss and weird hair guy has to clean the warehouse with a toothbrush.

We have some cool shots of Juan hauling Paula through some interesting ruins and telling her he wants to introduce her to somebody.

CL asks Ivonne about her "amiga" Pastor. "Oh, so now you're trying to prohibit my friendships?" she asks. She tells him that after his hissy fit she thought it best not to discuss Pastor. CL says he was just curious, nada mas. Then he lays a guilt trip on her that because of her he underwent the bogus operation and thanks to Her Friend Pastor they are losing all their clients. CL says he needs Ivonne on his side. She can't allow Pastor to do this to him. He needs her help.

Juan and Pau arrive at the school. In an amusing scene he pulls Juanito out of class. This was funny because Juanito acted a little miffed and embarrassed, just like kids do in the real world. Anway, once outside Juan proudly introduces him to Pau as His Son. Juanito comments that Paula is very beautiful. "Like father like son, eh?" notes Juan. Pau's enchanted to meet him. After the principal drags Juanito back to class Juan explains to an enquiring Pau that he didn't know about Juanito until he returned to town.

Anga tells Pastor, over a lunch of Tacos Al Pastor, the he has thought over Pastor's business proposal and has come to a decision. He'll go ahead and expand the biz but only on two conditions. The first - if it doesn't work out and he loses his money then Pastor has to work for him for free for the rest of his life. Pastor is thrilled, they will convert the biz to an emporium like no other seen in the history of the country! Anga says the second condition is that Anga wants to keep his headquarters there in the market. Pastor says they'll have a grand office and he'll decorate it!

Juan takes Pau to the top of a ridge so he can show her the beautiful view and share his dreams with her. He'll work with the Anthuriums, he'll come home to her and a good meal, on Sundays they'll go to mass then swim in the river, afterward they'll go to the market and get supplies, then to the park where they'll share a Mamey ice cream (Yum!!). Thankfully he goes on to say she won't just stay at home, she'll also be a professional in the exportation of the flowers and they'll work together. (OK Juan, she'll be home waiting for you but also working at your side? Clearly Juan has not solidified his fantasy yet.)

Juan tells her he has a proposal, that she go to Mexico City now, arrange all her business with CL, and think about everything that he said. What does she say to that?

Tomorrow: It looks like CL's not acting like a monk nor is he twiddling his thumbs while waiting for Paula to come home.

Autocontrol = Self control
Echar sapos y culebras = To rant and rave (lit. to throw toads and snakes)
Dorar la pildora = To sugar coat (lit. to sweeten the pill)
Por añadidura = In addition
De tal palo, tal astillo = Like father like son, a chip off the old block (lit. as the stick, so the splinter)

Labels: Juan