Caray, Caray!

Pastora’s arrived and she wants Juan Dominguez. He’s causing her a bad day and she wants to return the favor.

CL and Paula very professionally make out in his office with all of the blinds open. CL wants to know how Paula’s night went. She says it all went well, but he doesn’t remember it sounding alright last night. Paula explains that she was upset about all the hiding. Next, she asks the golden ticket question. When will CL stop living with his “ex”-wife? CL gives another speech about not hurting anyone, blah, blah, blah. He says that Monica will be leaving the country in two or a months time. Paula’s still unsure. Where there was a fire, ashes will remain. [Meaning the fire may be re-lit.] CL says that he has a solution. He’ll move out that very day. I’m genuinely interested how he’s going to pull this off.

Back to the fun! Pastora’s letting him have it. Pastor is not alone; he has Pastor! She’s not going to permit Juan giving her son a hard time! She slaps at him with her purse but he manages to wiggle out of the way. Juan tries to calm her, but she wants to be heard. She sees Fernando and goes after him as well. (Pelmazo = bore/pain in the ass; I’m assuming she’s using the word in the latter context.) Juan attempts to leave, but she stops him. She goes after Juan again, this time with Fernando making faces in the background. She rushes off to speak with someone so that Juan will not again break her son’s heart. Juan tries to stop her, but the almighty Pastora slips past his grasp.

CL repeats his promise, even though Paula doesn’t want him to rush. She comes to the other side of the desk and seductively thanks him. He tells her that he belongs to her. They snog some more. Yuck.

An employee almost runs over Pastora, but he gets the butt end of her purse instead. Yvonne sees her and scrambles to rush away, but she’s been sighted and there is no fleeing from the almighty and very pissed off Pastora. Pastor demands to know CL’s location. Yvonne tries to prevent Pastora from entering but to no avail. CL and Paula have quite there make out session, but they’re still surprised by Pastora and her demand to talk with CL.

Juan paces the garage, wondering what’s going on upstairs with Pastora. Fernando tries to keep Juan from going, but Juan goes anyway.

Yvonne apologizes for allowing Pastora pass. Pastora cuts her off and turns to CL to say that she must speak with him. He’s not sure of exactly who she is, but she doesn’t hesitate in telling him that she’s Pastor’s mama. CL says that he’s busy at this moment. Pastora moves Paula and seats herself. Pastora launches into a speech about needing to do something about that man. CL doesn’t completely understand. Pastora says it’s about Juan Dominguez. Everyone is impactado.

Yvonne goes to Pastor and tells him that his mother is causing a scandal. Pastor doesn’t know what to do; he refuses to go get his mother.

Pastora says that Pastor has dedicated his life to this business. He deserves some consideration. Juan Dominguez should be thrown out on the street immediately! Pastor enters the office. He argues with his mother for coming to the office without advising him. She answers his questions by accusing him of being a naïve fool.

Juan enters the lobby and asks Yvonne for Pastora. Yvonne tells Juan that Pastora is with CL. Yvonne tells Juan that Pastora is in that office defending her son from miserable men like Juan. Juan acts as though he has no idea about Yvonne’s accusations. Yvonne tells Juan that it hurt Pastor to see that Juan has certain wants. (ie: men) Juan says that things are not always as they appear. Yvonne tells Juan to say it to someone else. He gets mad and tries to enter the office to defend his reputation, but Yvonne won’t let him enter. She tells him that Paula is in there to; he realizes that he may lose the little ground he’s gained with Paula.

Pastora leaves the office and the former occupants of CL’s office come face to face with the causation of all the fuss – Juan. Everyone states at Juan. Pastora unloads again and unsuccessfully attempts to slap Juan. Juan looks up to see Paula slowly shaking her head at him in disgust.

CL finally acts like a boss. He says that this is an office and not a plaza. Paula walks past Juan and orders him to accompany her to her office. Pastora shouts after him.

Alirio, Yadira and Nidia talk about the wedding invitations and then they turn to the subject of Juan. Nidia again says that Juan left of his own accord. Yadira and Alirio are glad he’s gone, but Nidia feels some sympathy.

Juan assures Paula that Pastora isn’t tell the truth. Paula says that Juan doesn’t need to explain anything to her. He tries to explain again, but she happily says he doesn’t need to do that. Juan complains about his reputation being destroyed. Paula doesn’t disagree, but she thinks he should have resolved things earlier with Pastor. Juan wants to know what he should now do. Paula has him sit and asks him what he’s going to do without a house. She thinks he should go to her mother’s house.

Nidia thinks that Juan’s soul hurt when he left the house. Alirio doesn’t believe it. The group returns to the list. Yadira reads a name and asks Alirio how he knows that man, because he was in jail. Alirio explains that the man is a friend who was jailed for political reasons. Yadira moves on down the list. She asks her mother about Paula and Ana’s names. Nidia pauses and half smiles.

Juan thanks Paula but he’s embarrassed. Paula says that she and her mother would love to do him the favor. Besides, her mother would like the idea and Paula’s bedroom is empty. Juan thought bubbles to himself about how kind and considerate his Palomita is. Paula notes that Juan is thinking a lot about it and she wants to know if she should tell her mother.

Nidia says that she can invite whomever she wants. Yadira thinks it’s disrespectful to invite the Davila’s. Alirio tries to interfere in the conversation, but Nidia silences him. Nidia thinks it’s time the family becomes Juan and forgets the past. Nidia says that the women are coming because she wants them there. Yadira says that if the women come to the wedding, Nidia can’t ask her for anything more.

CL and Pastor speak about his mother. CL wants Pastora far from the office. Pastor humbly apologizes. CL reminds Pastor that this is terrible for Pastor’s authority in the office.

Alirio attempts to talk some sense into Nidia. He agrees with Yadira; the Davila’s should not be at the wedding.

CL says that Pastor has problems because he mixes sex with work and that mix is explosive. Does CL have a twin or is he just that non self-perceptive? CL says that the difference with him is that he’s the owner and he can do what he wants. Pastor says that’s very clear. CL reminds Pastor that he’s a simple worker. CL tells Pastor to talk with Juan and to take care of this. Pastor reluctantly agrees.

Juan leaves Paula’s office. Mareli’s look stops him. Juan makes a big deal about the look but Pastor has Juan follow to Pastor’s office.

Nidia comes after Yadira and her attitude. Yadira thinks it’s weird that Nidia’s inviting her husband’s lover to the wedding. Nidia replies that this world forgot how to forgive. Nidia thinks it’s better to forgive and forget. Yadira doesn’t buy this new attitude.

Pastor apologizes to Juan for the scandal and promises that it will not happen again. Juan says this is what bothers him the least. Pastor accuses Juan of betraying Pastor. Pastor says that there was never anything between them. Pastor tries to make it seem that there was, but Juan calls Pastor crazy. Pastor says that it all depends on the perspective. Juan says he respects Pastor’s preferences and he wishes that Pastor would accept that Juan prefers women. Pastor wants to know why Juan was in that bar with Fernando.

Nidia tells Yadira that Samuel is not here anymore. Both Nidia and Ana were victims. Paula has been very good with Mareli. Nidia says that it’s just not worth it to hate anymore. Yadira thinks that Nidia should go on the television and give this speech; it would stop all wars. Nidia turns to Yadira and says that Yadira needs to learn to forgive in order to live in peace.

Ana walks through the lobby and greets Mareli. Ana enters Paula’s office, to Paula’s surprise. Ana tells Paula that she, Ana, has an interview. Ana’s obviously excited about the new job.

Pastor doesn’t think that a straight man would be in a bar like that in the middle of the week with a man like Fernando. Juan defends Fernando. Pastor demands to know why they were in that bar. Juan loudly says that he’s straight. Juan thought bubbles to himself that he will be completely truthful with Pastor. He tells this to Pastor. Juan explains that he went to the bar to find a man for someone who needed another man. Really, he was trying to find a boyfriend for Pastor. Pastor’s impactado, but we can’t tell if he’s mad or just shocked.

Paula tells her mother about Juan’s problems with his home. She asks Ana to rent out Paula’s former bedroom.

Juan swears to Pastor that Juan did not have a bad intention. He just wanted to find a man who liked the same thing as Pastor. Pastor’s disgusted. Who does Juan think he is? Juan should be preoccupied with his own life. Pastor says that this is the most offended that he’s ever felt.

Paula doesn’t like the fact that her mother’s living alone, but Ana’s accustomed to living alone. Ana thinks it will be different with Juan because he’s not her child. Paula doesn’t think it should be so weird considering Ana was all alone with him when she painted the nude. Ana explains that Juan gives her certain confidence. Paula thinks this is why it’s a good idea for him to live with Ana. Paula even offers to just make it a test period. Ana agrees, until Juan can find something else.

Pastora’s gone, but she returns in the form of her son. Pastor accuses Juan of being an imbecile. Juan demands respect. Pastor demands that Juan leave the office immediately. Juan slits his eyes, but he leaves only to find a crowd waiting for him. They scurry off to their offices. Yvonne approaches and asks if he’s having any problems. Needless to say, he is and he doesn’t want to hear it from Yvonne. Mareli pulls Juan aside to say that Paula needs him in her office.

He enters and happily greets Ana. He likes her pretty clothes. Paula tells Juan that Ana will rent out Paula’s bedroom to him. Juan gleefully thanks Ana. He gives her and Paula huge hugs. CL enters at the moment Juan hugs Paula. CL turns to Ana. They talk a little business and he invites the two Davila’s to lunch. They accept and leave Juan alone in the office. Juan pretends to be one of the Davila’s refusing CL’s invitation.

The lunch crew enter the garage. Juan helps Ana and Paula into the car. He keeps thanking them until CL interrupts and says he wants to speak with CL later. Juan thought bubbles to himself that he didn’t like CL’s tone. He also thinks that he envies what CL has, the good and the bad.

Mareli approaches and Juan wants to know why she’s alone. She says that she’s going to eat. He tells her that she’s won an invitation to eat with him. They leave the garage together.

Nidia sadly sits at her desk. Alirio wants to know what’s wrong. She’s sad because Juan is gone. He can’t believe that she’s so sad after all Juan has done. Nidia defends Juan; she loves him as a son. Alirio thinks that Nidia loves Juan as something else. Nidia says that if Alirio wants to be so jealous, then they don’t need to hold a wedding. Nidia 1, Alirio 0.

Ana thanks CL for the recommendation. He assures Ana that she would have been able to find work on her own. CL asks when Ana will start. Paula says that her mother hasn’t signed the contract yet because she’s having a few offers for work. CL wants to know about it. Paula explains that her mother has another interview tonight. CL thinks this is great and he wants to know who. Ana explains that it’s a business woman starting a business. I think CL catches on that this might be Monica because he looks very nervous.

Alirio refuses to allow Juan to enter the house again; only over Alirio’s dead body. Nidia says that Juan’s coming to the wedding. Alirio repeats that it will be over his dead body. He leaves. Once he’s gone Nidia says “poor cadaver” and goes back to addressing the invitations. The first one out of the box goes to Juan.

Mareli and Juan enjoy a casual lunch. Mareli thinks that what happened this morning will cause more suspicions. He wants to know about the rumors around the office. Mareli doesn’t involve herself in gossip. Juan says out loud that he hopes that Paula feels the same. Mareli asks why Paula’s opinion matters so much. Juan recognizes that he needs to change the subject, but doesn’t get a chance. Mareli asks Juan if he likes Paula.

Labels: Juan

Tuesday's show begins at Men's Wearhouse Mexico, where Diego is signing his termination papers as the tailors rally behind him talking about what a raw deal he got, as he's the best salesman in the store. Perla looks almost pleased with herself, I'm not sure what's going on there. Abuelo says that he's going to leave with Diego, but Diego convinces him not to do it. Abuelo agrees that he'll stay.

Just then Mauricio calls to confirm his appointment with Diego and learns that Diego is leaving, but someone else in the store will be able to assist him when he comes in. Mauricio wants to make sure that he sees his BFF again, so he asks for Diego's cell number.

Silvana is in a therapy session with Emilia talking about her issues with her mama, but Emilia's much more interested in her relationship with Diego. She asks for his last name and Silvana tells her that it's Moran, why? Emilia says that she was just curious. Silvana's gushing about Diego's abrazos, but Emilia telsls her that she need to be thinking about herself, and getting stronger. Besides, she's sure that she's in love with Diego.

As she leaves the office, Diego is waiting outside to escort her. He tells her that Mauricio came into the store and they talked. Silvana is furious! This man is responsible for her son's death, and now Diego's chatting him up! He's betrayed her! Diego's a brave one - he tells her that Mauricio doesn't seem to be a monster, maybe he just made a mistake. Silvana runs away, telling him that she doesn't want to see him.

Arnaldo comes to apologize to Alfredo, who's speechless. Alfredo says that he's sad to imagine that soon Arnaldo will find another man, and they'll get a French poodle that they'll groom and dress up and treat like it's a son. Alfredo thinks it's pathetic. Pobre de Arnaldo. His daddy's a homophobic pig.

Later Arnaldo tells Azul about his conversation with Alfredo. She's not happy to hear how closed minded Alfredo is being... Arnaldo asks her if she knows who's the love of her life, and she just looks away.

Gloria's on the phone talking about some blood red silk that she has, it's almost transparent... it's creepy - I think that she's trying to seduce someone, but she's talking baby talk. Yuk! Luckily, she's interrupted by Silvana's arrival and quickly gets off the phone. She's blabbering about about something meaningless when Silvana tells her to shut up - why is everyone against her!? She runs to her room, knocking over the ironing board as she goes.

Diego calls to talk to Silvana, but she refuses to talk to him. He asks her not to leave Silvana alone, he's going to call her doctor.

The poppet is having a nightmare about her mama's accident. She's crying out in her sleep when her nanny comes in and wakes her to comfort her.

Diego visits Gloria and tells her that it wasn't his fault. Gloria understands - she doesn't think Mo is bad either, he even came to the house and offered to help Silvana. The poor guy is a widow with a child. Diego thinks it would be good to prove that Nico was dead when Mo arrived, but he doesn't think that Silvana would be able to accept that it's nobody's fault, it was just an accident.

Mo and Azul are comforting the poppet, who dreamed that Nico and her mama were still alive. Mo and Azul try to cheer her up, but it doesn't seem to be working.

Silvana's pacing like a caged lion in Emilia's office as she talks about how Diego betrayed her. Emilia wants to know if he's betrayed her by not sharing in her hate, or returning her love? Ah, good question!

Arnaldo talks to tia Ines about Alfredo... she's worried about him because she doesn't like to see him unhappy. Arnaldo wants to know why she worries about his papa so much and she says that she loves him very much. Arnaldo catches this and calls her on it, but she gets nervous and runs to the kitchen for refills on their tea.

Mo and Leo are talkign about what else Caty may have seen at the accident. He's nervous... Azul interrupts to have Mo sign some papers and is surprised by the tension. They claim that nothing is wrong and Leo makes her exit. Azul asks why they're always talking in a low voice, but Mo claims that's just the way that Leo is.

Diego's laying in bed trying to ignore his ringing phone, finally he gets up to answer it and it's no other than his new buddy Mo, who wants to come to Diego's house to get his opinion on the suit he just picked up. This is a bizarre conversation, but it ends with Mo taking down Diego's address and promising to be there soon.

Lidia's wife has come to visit him at the office. She wants to talk about Lidia's upcoming nuptials and learns that she's not getting married because she's not in love. Wifey wants to know if maybe it's because Lidia's in love with Piero. It wouldn't be the first time a secretary fell in love with the boss.

Azul advises Mo to take Caty to a therapist. Leonardo is not exactly motherly and warm... Mo tries to say that Leo is very affectionate and protective of Caty, but Azul isn't buying that for a dollar. She basically says that she calls it like she sees it, but he doesn't have to take her advice. She gathers her papers and leaves, leaving Mo scowling at her desk.

Wifey sees Lidia at her desk and asks her why she's not getting married. Maybe it's because she's in love with another man? Lidia claims that she's not in love with Paco, and isn't in love with anyone else either. Wifey doesn't seem to believe it, but leaves anyway. As soon as she's gone Piero's poking his head out the door to see what was said. Lidia's sure that she suspects something, and tells him that he's playing with fire.

Mo's at Diego's place talking about his daughter's frequent nightmares. He tells Diego that his wife lost control of the truck and died instantly. A little boy named Nicholas was also in the car - he was a friend of Caty's and she loved him very much. Diego keeps him response short - tells him that it must have been horrible for him and his daughter, but back to the suit - the cut is perfect. Mo admits that he wanted to see and talk to Diego again. (Is it just me, or is that a strange thing for a guy to say to another guy? Maybe he should call Arnaldo and let Diego have Azul!)

Speaking of Arnaldo, he's hanging out at Azul's place and she wants to know if he went back to Men's Wearhouse Mexico and he admits that he did. She's perturbed - she told him not to go back there. Arnaldo blows it off, he didn't even see Diego there.

Diego tells Mo that his fiance will love the suit. She must be beautiful, right? A yes, she's lovely. Mo invites him to the party so that he can meet her. He'd also like to offer Diego a job. Diego is impactado, and we go to commercial.

Back from commercial, Diego is considering the job offer, and Mo is telling him that it's obvious that he's professional and creative. He thinks it will be good for them both. Diego isn't sure that he wants to, so Mo tells him to come to the party and they can talk more about the offer. Diego isn't sure... Mo's not taking no for an answer.

Silvana's chewing Gloria out for seeing Diego behind her back. Gloria looks scared, Silvana looks furious. Nothing new here.

Azul and Arnaldo are chatting. As usual, she's trying to get more info about Diego (new word for me - averiguaste: you found out). It's basically the same conversation she has with Ceci all the time. She's surprised to hear that he was fired - he didn't seem irresponsible, but then he did stand her up a few times. Poor guy, she hates that he's without a job. Just wait until she finds out about his new opportunity!

Mo is still at Diego's place when abuelo comes home from work. A few words about the wonderful job abuelo did on the suit, then abuelo mentions that the brother of a girl he knows came into the store looking for him today. Diego tells Mo that it's the brother of the girl who's been driving him a little crazy. Of course no names are mentioned.

Mo leaves and Gloria calls Diego to tell him that Silvana is a hot mess - she's really fragile and he can't abandon her now. Diego tells abuelo that he feels hopeless. Just then Paco arrives and Diego asks what his plans are for tomorrow... he says he doesn't have to see the president or Britney Spears. Bueno - then of course Paco will attend the fiesta with Diego.

Party day arrives - white tents are set up, guys in white jackets are setting everything up, and Mo is prancing around in a white suite looking like an ice cream cone.

Diego tells Silvana that one of his motives for befriending Mo is to find out what really happened. Silvana doesn't want to hear it - she knows what happened - he killed her son! Now get out! Diego turns to leave, but she grabs his arm and tells him to be very careful, he's going into the wolf's den. Then she goes back to staring at pictures of Nico and crying.

Azul is still running around in a raspberry colored track suit and Alfredo wants to know why she's not dressed. Maybe she should wear the track suit - it will be perfect with Mo's ice cream cone getup.

Leo is freaking out about something having do with with preparing the food. I think she's upset that she's not supposed to be doing it. Andres tells her that she's not supposed to be there and this doesn't sit well with her. Andres gets a slap and responds by kissing her on the hand - very slowly and with an almost open mouth. She seems to enjoy it. Scary theme music plays as he tells Leo that these are the last moments they'll enjoy before Azul moves in and takes control of the house. Leo says she'll never allow Azul to control the house.

Mo is directing the guests to their seats. Arnaldo has arrived with Ceci on his arm, who's wearing a dress cut down to her belly button. I hope there's some double stick tape holding that baby down! Commercial break.

After the commercial, we see Diego arriving with Paco. Diego's wearing what appears to be a gold Century 21 blazer. Paco's impressed by the spread and sneaks across the lawn to get a snack. Andres goes to find out who he is, but Mo stops him when he realizes that he's with Diego. Mo runs over to introduce Caty to Diego and Paco.

Ceci leaves Arnaldo so she can go find Azul. Arnaldo is standing alone and gets the eye from Andres!!! Now that's a new twist. Quick chat with Alfredo, then Andres walks towards Arnaldo.. I thought we'd have a moment, but Andres doesn't even slow down as he passes.

Azul comes out dressed for the party in a dress that looks like it was stolen from the Stevie Nicks Bella Donna collection. Everyone kisses her and tells her how beautiful she looks. Leo stand by looking evil as always, with Andres behind her.

Diego and Paco are chatting.. Diego wants to go, but Paco wants to stay for a while. Mo comes over to get Diego - he wants to introduce him to his fiance... he brings Diego over to Azul and doesn't seem to notice the tension in the air as they're both obviously impactados! Credits roll.

Labels: amar

I'll keep this short... on Tuesday's episode Fiona's still lying about her pregnancy, Pancho and Sharon are still working together to blackmail Fedora, and Gaby is the last to learn that Max is alive.

Marfil tells Diego to kill Fiona so that she won't have Max's baby and he tells her to get lost. That's when she tells him that if she doesn't, she'll turn him in for attacking Diana. She has the mask he was wearing as evidence.

Dona Santa is in the hospital and keeps moaning that she needs to see Max, her heart tells her that he's alive. She knows he's alive and that he should be with Diana.

Gaby and Larry are hugging in the hospital hallway when Kike arrives (summoned by evil Sharon, aka Chucky). They're about to fight when Fedora walks up and puts an end to it.

In the last scene Max arrives to see her and she makes them promise that they'll always love each other as she takes their hands and puts them in hers. Diana cries alligator tears of pure dolor.

Labels: acorralada

Monday's episode begins with Max and Larry discussing Marfil and Diana. I could have this wrong, but it sounds like Max plans to use Marfil to make Diana jealous. (because that worked out so well when he did it with Fiona). He's not going to feel bad about it either, because she deserves it!

It looks like there's a blossoming romance between Paco and Yolanda. She's visiting him again and she's all smiles. They leave together, leaving Fiona alone at Paco's apartment (didn't he tell her to move out?)

When they leave, Fiona picks up the phone to call Alejandro (she still doesn't know that he's Max) about the baby.... but she's interrupted by a knock at the door that she assumes is Paco coming back for his keys. No dice, honey! It's Marfil and she's after you - that baby you're carrying can never be born because Alejandro is Max! Fiona's surprised, but it doesn't matter to her... Max/Alejandro, tomato/tomahto - whoever he is, he knocked her up and he's going to marry her! If he's Max, he'll have to divorce Marfil first, and Marfil tells her that will only happen over her dead body! A catfight ensues - there's plenty of hairpulling and attempted biting, but really it's just two ladies rolling around on the couch screaming at each other. It gets broken up by Emilio and Caramelo, who want to know why Fiona would be fighting with Marfil if she's preggers. Doesn't she know that she could lose the baby?

Mad Max talks to Silvia on the phone to see if she's delivered his message of love and remorse. She has, but Diana didn't buy that for a dollar! She practically forbade Silvia from saying his name in the house!

It turns out that Sharon y Pancho are old buddies from way back when. She goes to visit him at the room with the industrial size fan and tells him about her new stepmom, Fedora. He knows Fedora and her daughters, and now he has a plan! He calls Fedora and tells her that Sharon helped him smuggle jewels and he wants to meet with her in the morning. She better comply or her daughters will pay the price! Of course she's stupid enough to fall for this and shows up bright and early in the fan room. There, he blackmails her so that he doesn't tell the police about Sharon's involvement in the jewel smuggling ring. She doesn't want Rodrigo to be hurt and shamed by this, so she writes him a check for $10,000. Puh-lease! What kind of bank cashes a check for an escaped convict?

Octavia learns that Max is alive. Since she can't show emotion with facial expressions, she drops a glass to show that she's impactada.

Max returns to Emilio's apartment, where Diana is alone. He knocks and she answers without asking who's there. Odd behavior for a woman who was raped just a few days ago, but I digress. It's what you'd expect from Mad Max - he loves her and he's sorry. She's not falling for it this time. She doesn't love him after what he's done, she hates him and Alejandro! He asks her to forget what he did. How smooth is that? Diana throws him out on his ear, then goes running into the bedroom crying, where Miguelina and Silvi are waiting - they heard everything and they don't understand why she's resisting Max. (UM - WHAT? Are these people crazy?)

Yoland learns that Max is alive. She's so feliz. She also learns that he's a rapist, so she's not so feliz. Larry explains that Mad Max was really drunk that night. Yolanda responds that he'll have to win her back little by little. She's dressed as a Geisha today in a patterned kimono and her hair twisted up and sticking up in spikes behind her head. It's a little strange, but better than some of her outfits.

Fiona tells Max that she knows that he's Max, and that she's preggers, so he'll have to divorce Marfil and marry her. He says he'll do that when she shows him the test results as proof. I can't wait to see how Fi handles this one.

A few minutes later, he runs into his buddy Iggy and Camila on the beach. Iggy runs off to a cantina where Max is supposed to follow so they can have a beer together. As soon as Iggy leaves he tells Camila that he's Max and he knows that she was involved in the fire. She begs forgiveness and he promises to do that if she finds out if Fiona is really pregnant. Camila's quite proud that she's going to betray Iggy, Diego, Fiona, and Marfil, and still win Max's affection!

Dona Santa's in bad shape. She's been taken to Hospital TeleMiami. Fedora goes to casa Irazabal to break the news... Yolanda and Larry appreciate it, but Octavia tells her not to let the door hit her on the way out.

Back at casa Pedro, Marcela tells Max that she's going to marry Leonardo so that her mama will be comfortable. She doesn't love him, but he's a good man, so maybe love will come over time. He advises her against marriage sin amor. Too bad he hasn't figured out that she's in love with him!

Marcela is impactada when Octavia arrives and greets Alejandro with "Max, son!"

Credits roll.

Labels: acorralada

The following things happened on Amar Monday:

Diego and Azul had some conversation at the bar, where she decided she would not see him anymore. Since I did not see Friday, this seemed unmotivated and ridiculous.

He had a large drink.

Azul goes home with Ceci. They sit in bed having a lot of ice cream, while Azul moons over Diego and how wonderful he is! So don't break up with him, you twit. I am bored silly.

At work, Diego is still trying to sell Morris a suit. Then suddenly Silvana comes in. He leaves to go talk to her outside. Once the boss finds out, he demands that Perla call him and get him to come right back. Perla calls him on the cell, and he declines to go back. Diego gets fired.

Lidia reveals that she is not marrying Paco. Diego reveals that he got fired.

That's about it. Sorry, I just don't have the time or energy to provide more detail.

Labels: amar

We open with Yadira telling Marely not to defend Juan. The girls bicker, Yadira accuses Marely of having feelings for Juan and that is why she is defending him so vehemently. Marely and Yadira exchange some nice insults until Alirio intervenesand tells the girls "basta!" Marely tells him to mind his own business and storms out. He is agast that she dares speak to him that way and asks his wifey if she is going to permit her to speak him that way. She says he shouldn't have been so 'bruto' to speak to them so harshly and mutters that one cannot even eat dinner in peace anymore in that house.

Ivonne and Pastor are in the bar/club. Juan and Ferando enter together despite Fern's reservations. He is not comfortable with the situation, but Juan tells him that it is okay, no one knows them there.

CL telephones Paula. She says she was thinking of him. They exchange some terms of endearment and agree to see each other the next day.

CL's wife is watching a novela in the bedroom. CL comes in and she asks if his bad mood has passed. He gets in bed with her and she thinks all is well.

Marely and Nidia are talking about Juan and wondering if they will ever see him again. Nidia asks her if she has feelings for Juan.

Back at the bar, Juan and Fernando are scoping out their environment and checking out the people in the bar. Juan approaches one of the guys.

Ivonne and Pastor are talking... Ivonne asks Pastor to accompany her to the bathroom. He declines. As she is walking towards the bathroom, she sees Juan talking to a guy and she sees Ferando as well.

Juan rejoins Fernando. Fernando wants to leave. Juan tells him to pay and they will leave. Fernando does not want to pay, Juan ends up paying.

Marely is indignant and denies that she has feelings for him. NIdia says she can tell her the truth. She says she respects him and appreciates what he did for her, but she does not have feelings for him. Nid tells her to be careful of men who do not tell the truth. Marely goes on to say that Juan is not her type.

Ivonne tells Pastor that she saw Juan there. Pastor is muy impactado.

Juan haggles over the price of the drinks, complains that the price is too much for two drinks. Ferando agrees to charge it to his credit card. Juan turns to leave and sees Ivonne and Pastor.

Marely is laying in bed thinking about Juan and the conversation they had when he told her the truth about him not studying at the universidad and that the only reason he made up the farce was to impress her. She remembers him telling her that he is not a liar, just a man in love. Everything was motivated by love. He says that with her, he tried to be sincere.

Juan and Fernando say they are there only because they wanted a drink not because they are gay. Pastor and Ivonne are not buying the story...

Fernando is really worried about how it will affect him. Juan is having images in his head of he and Fern walking hand in hand into the office and picturing everyone's reactions. Paula is impactada seeing them together. Juan snaps back to reality and promptly leaves with Fern.

Pastor is sad and says why didn't he see it? Why do those things always happen to him. Ivonne says she still has her doubts. Pastor is clearly heartbroken over the Juan/Fernando thing.

Juan comes home to be confronted by Nidia. She is not happy with him. She says she needs to talk to him. She tells him that he betrayed their trust and read him the riot act. She said she needs him to tell her the truth about who he really is. He tells her the reason why he left his town, (because that girl situation and her family being after him), he recounts the story about his journey to their house. He says that he will move out the following day.

Juan packs his things and ponders his fate. He is sad about the possibility of not seeing Marely or Paula again.

The next morning, Yadira asks if Nidia kicked Juan out. Nid says she didnt have to, Juan said he was leaving on his own. Nidia and Marely are bummed. Yadira comments that even the day their dad died, they did not look so sad.

Juan thanks them for their hospitality and tells them he appreciates all they did for him. He is sorry for the deceit and lies. He tells Nidia that she was like his mother, but quickly changes that to a younger aunt. :) He tells Yadira he is sorry for her having her heart broken. And that he is deeply sorry... Lots of tears from the ladies Cachon as he leaves.

Kike tells Juan that he is welcome to stay at his house and invites him to eat breakfast.

Marely is in Juan's bedroom, Nidia enters. Nidia says that they will miss Juan. Marely leaves to go to class. Nidia sits on the bed and finds the

Kike asks Juan what is next for him. Juan says he does not know.

Monica and CL are having breakfast. She asks him for Ana Davila's phone number. He gets irritated and leaves.

Monica's maid telephones Ana. She passes the phone to Monica. Monica tells about a job and would like her to be her secretary. Ana declines...

Fernando tells Juan that Ivonne has spread the word about them being a couple.

Monica is trying to make an appointment/interview with Ana. Ana agrees to meet with her.

Marely and Paula go over Paula's appointments for the day. CL calls Paula, CL requests to see her in his office. Paula asks Marely if she knows what the deal is with Juan and why he is acting so strangely. Marely tells her that the truth came to light about him being a chauffer and he has moved out of the house.

Pators mom makes a visit to Juan and is so not pleased with her baby boy's heartbreak and is seeking some retribution.

Labels: Juan

We open with the dance of "The Crazed Machetes". Gavi looks all fetching in her fluffy designer, native costume (this is like the Ralph Lauren Prairie collection), what natives would wear if they could just sit around looking native instead of waiting on rich folks or cutting Agave. Rod strips off his jacket and ties his shirt at his waist, he too is looking natively fashionable, though I am not sure Ralph would have tied one of his oxfords at the waist. The dance begins..intricate foot steps and much clinking of metal. Now lets give these two a chance to catch their breaths and transport over to Mexico DF.

Aaron is trying to win Minnie over, she pulls back from his every embrace, he swoops in for a kiss and the lips never meet. During this whole scene that old song by MeatLoaf, "Paradise by the DashBoard Lights",
Stop right there!
I gotta know right now!
Before we go any further--!
Minnie says kick Pamela out of the house in Miami, Aaron is like okay. Now Minnie plays her trump card. Aaron must tell the papers that the whole marriage thing with Pammy was joke. Ahhh the face of Muy Impacted. (If I was there I would have thumped him on the back to dislodge that fur ball)…

Funny you should mention Pammy cause next we see her looking at the computer and talking about her fine wedding. She is talking in a very child like manner, it will be all sunshine and lollipops as soon as Aaron returns on the following day. Ma & Pa are there. Pa still is not happy about Pammy and Aaron. He thinks Pammy is just headed for heartache. Oh here comes the servant with a big box. My dress, my dress Pammy shouts with glee. She takes the lid off and pulls out a Wedding Dress, she whirls around just in time to miss the "Giant Anvil of Foreboding". Is it me or is that a Luigi Lombardi design? Well we all know were that is going…I am totally having a "Marcia Flashback"…nuff said.

Back to Minnie & Aaron, he is like are your kidding? What are your conditions? Well Minnie says she has to keep tabs on Aaron 24-7, (she has been watching Dr. Phil) & the ultimate deal maker/breaker is that he has to announce that it was a joke..

Back to Miami..Pa says before Aaron & Pam marry she has to be honest with Aaron and tell him about her "Medical Condition", which leaves we the viewers imagining all kinds of crazy things, ummm probably not restless leg syndrome. Pa says Aaron has a right to know that in times of crisis, Pam has to take medication. Well I think the HMO anvil has dropped and I hope they have the number of a 24 hour pharmacy cause I’m seeing a crisis on the horizon.

Back to our dancing with tards…sorry dancing with the stars…
For those of you unfortunate enough not to catch the intimate steps….
Clunk clunk, clink clink clink…meaningful look, meaningful look, Clunk clunk, clink clink clink…meaningful look, meaningful look..
Rod leans in with a Te Amo, Gavi staggers..he knocks the machete from her hand, she is down…Rod reaches down and pulls her up. Ewwwww the tension there is a huge crowd in the plaza..mothers are covering the wee ones eyes. They are this close to hawt hate sex.

We cut to commercial leaving me to wonder if people in the plaza were on their feet shouting "Get a Room".

Nope when we come back…the Revolution is over, Gavi says "My bad, you actually have awesome jobs and make quite decent wages, swing low sweet chariot". Rod tries to talk to Gavi, but she doesn’t want to. Clarita still thinking about the 52 inch plasma television that may be in her future, tells Gavi to talk to Rod. At least hear him out.

Rod and Gavi are sitting out in front, Rod just stares at Gavi and tells her how beautiful she is. He wants to go inside & drink some Tequila and talk. **a kid I work with says Tequila makes people take their clothes off and I am thinking Rod may have the same thought** Gavi says No that they can talk right here. Gavi spots the photographer who took her pictures and sent her off to a "Whore House" in France, back when we were all so much younger, so much more trusting & naïve. Rod is like what are you staring at. She tells him. The creepy photographer is talking to two young girls (by young I mean they could be Gavi and Rod’s grandkids), Gavi and Rod run up and start tag teaming the photographer, the police come and he is hauled off for an investigation.

Now we go back to Mexico DF, where Sofie has just brought her new husband to the home of Granny Pilar. Seems they will reside there until they leave for their new life in Japan. Thankfully Granny is actually a Zombie and will be able to wait Frankie out. Granny is ordering one of the slaves…ooops I mean dedicated servants to set up the room and bathroom for Frankie and Sofie. Dani comes in and listens with some awesome eye rolling to Frankie yammer on about how the bathroom must have bath salts etc..Frankie leaves and Dani and Sofie get into it. After Dani leaves, Granny Pilar who has not blinked or actually moved through this entire scene, does a "What’s Up with Dani?". Sofie says Dani is just jealous.
Sofie is just the Mexican Jan Brady, that’s right Dani is so envious of your match made in heaven. Pilar says some things about Elvis, and my closed captions go crazy. I think it is more racial slurs. Damn you just seriously know Pilar is gonna get an awesome comeuppance before this TeleNovela ends. Please God let Gavi inherit the whole thing.

Roman sees Rod & Gavi on the street and embraces Gavi, she is very happy to see him. Rod tells Roman that the workers will return to work tomorrow. The strike is over. Just typing that made my liver do the happy dance…yes this little tale has re-introduced me to Tequila. Gavi asks Rod about Hil. Rod gets this look like Who? Finally he says Hil left a few months ago.
Wow now we see Hil, coincidence? I don’t think so. He is working at a garage. So young hottie pulls in driving a Mercedes, she has some big meeting and she can’t be late. Hil is all gosh ma’am he jacks the car up and goes to work on her muffler. The businesswoman is strictly Manhattan, she is talking on the cell phone the whole time. She says something about casting for models will be manana , then she takes a look at our young farm boy. She gives him a business card and tells him if he wants to change his life, to give her a call. The card says she Creative Director. Oh young Hil, I hope this isn’t porn flicks.

Meanwhile over at the Big Hacienda, Ofelia is working in the kitchen with the Nasty Lil SannaWanna…they get into a verbal exchange and Sanna tells her that Hil was enamored with Isa..No No it can't be. Poor Ofelia.

Isa is having a sit down with the parents.
Que the Hell is up with those maternity clothes? Seriously she wears them and every one just acts like that is really normal. I bet filming those scenes is really hard, you know everyone just cracks up during them. I feel sorry for the actress playing the part, between the extensions in the hair and the wardrobe. Anyway Isa is telling her rents that she wants out of the marriage (no doubt it is seriously curbing her dating), anyway Pa is like not so fast little grandchild bearing missy. Pa takes off to call the lawyer (you know he is calling Vinnie in Jersey to put down some on the ponies), but Ma takes this time to talk to her daughter about men and life and stuff like that. I think I saw this on Lifetime. Fedra accuses Isa of loving Frankie. Damn you, feeling emotion for the father of your child? I raised you better than that. She accuses Isa of being all-emotional over the wedding of Sofie and Frankie. Isa confesses she told Frankie he was the Padre to the belly bump, (which she continues to rub non-stop), she tells her mother, he thought the kid belonged to Rod. She says basically screw both Rod and Frankie, she doesn’t need either of them cause the kid is a boy. Ma Evil is all happy a VARON. Yep and Rod is gonna be paying for this the rest of his life.

Back over to Tequila..Rod and Gavi are now in "Carmelo’s House of Fine Tequilas", dobles all round. Rod just stares at Gavi, you can see that he would sit there forever if he could. Gavi not so much. She brings up the pregnancy. Gavi goes on and on, about how many times he has betrayed her. Gavi speaks of how when they were supposed to marry he married Isa and how she had to watch "Isa and Rod kiss for their first anniversary", how at the island he told her that she and Clarita were gonna live on the island with him, how she was the only woman in his life, she was his one and only. ***Like that was a good thing? Oh I guess I am betraying my coming of age in the late seventies…not to mention the awesome eighties***. Rod says you were my first and only. Always the naysayer; Gavi is like "She is pregnant, tell me about it stud". Rod is like a fourteen year old blurting out "Yeah, well ar·ti·fi·cial in·semi·nation." The look of muy impacted.
Rod lets her know that previously when he thought there was no hope for he and Gavi, he went to the doctor and gave a sperm sample, once he thought Gavi was in his life, he told Isa no deal. Isa became pregnant with out his knowledge. Rod had no intention of returning to Isa, but well since he thought there was no future with he and Gavi…and since Isa showed up at the hacienda pregnant. Well what’s a boy to do?

Hello, Gavi and I are both seeing a pattern here, "Since I thought you were a whore in France, well I married the first warm body, well since I thought you and I had no future, I gave a JizzWhiz sample (seriously I was thinking of you the whole time), then since I thought you were boinking my cousin, I decided to reconcile with Isa. Now we’d jump light years ahead if Rod could see the pattern.

Rod confesses he has no feeling for the child, it seems like belongs to other people. Good call Rod. It does.
Gavi is all mature about the whole thing. She says well Isa loved you enough that she got jizzed and now there is a lil blockhead on the way. Rod is crying, Gavi is like it was a beautiful dream, but now you must put us aside and be a father, the baby is the most important thing. Rod is all, "you are my best friend you have been with me through the most important times of my life", seriously viewers is he referring to the few times he has actually performed? Methinks so. Gavi salutes him and says they must say goodbye.
"We'll always have Tequila. We didn't have, we, we lost it until you came to Tequila."
***I hang my head in shame cause this actually did cause me to have a fleeting moment of emotion that well wasn’t scorn and ridicule, well that and the shameless CasaBlanca ripoff I did***

Back to DF, Pa comes out of the room where he was on the phone talking to the lawyer. The lawyer said, Isa is gonna have to suck it up and shut up for a few months at least cause a divorce will lead to Rod calling in the loan he made Pa. Pa is in no position to pay it back.

Now over to the crypt, sorry Granny Pilar’s, Sofie is instructing Frankie which drawers are his and where the underwear go. Gawd Frankie, maybe you really don’t deserve this. Sofie is all pinched faced, "Are you listening to me." Ah, my little flower I must go and talk to Granny, I loved the tour of the ranch, but tonite, we will be together. Sofie is all blushing. Frankie goes off to weasel the deal.

A leadin for the ranch, where Roman is telling Ofelia he saw Rod and Gavi together and they will always be together. Ofelia says is it true that Hil was enamored with Isa? Alas it is true Roman answers.

Back to Rod and Gavi, they are sitting together on a bench. Rod says it is the work of the land that keeps him going, but every street, every turn reminds him of her, he take hand and as two old friends they walk off together…..

I must say this was a most excellent episode…now then tomorrow..

We see someone in a Red nightie..walking around a bed with a big feather tracing from the top of a pair of boxers up the chest to the…..someone is tied to the bed….IT IS AARON…this guarantees some wicked laughter..
We then see Isa…yes more laughter, wearing belly showing pjs..she is trying to track Rod down via telephone..
Oh good times..good times..

Labels: Destilando

NOTE: For some reason, my DVR only picked up the final 22 minutes of Acorralada. If anyone wants to fill in the blanks, feel free to do so. I suspect we haven't missed much…Max probably spent the first three quarters of the show trying to beg Dimwit to forgive him and she probably refused. I'm sure Rene and his dimples are still gone and undoubtedly Lunkhead and Little Doormat are still apart.

Max is yelling at Marfil for letting him believe Dimwit had slept with Diablo. Marfil is in tears.

Iggy is leaving another message for Alejandro to call him ASAP. He asks himself where in the heck is that bonehead.

Max is mad that Marfil has been sleeping with Diablo and that she knew about his kidnapping. Marfil denies it, but Max says he heard it from Princess Fi; therefore it must be true.

The detective shows up at Diablo's house to interrogate Diablo about the abuse he has inflicted on his wife, Dimwit.

Sylvie is brushing Dimwit's hair. She must be suffering from hair envy. Sylvie is wearing her best purple Lhasa Apso wig. Dimwit is "fixing to go back to work" at the hospital tomorrow. Sylvie tells her that Max will probably go to the hospital looking for her so he can beg for forgiveness. Max feels really bad for raping Dimwit; he really loves her. . . What, are you kiddin' me?! Are we supposed to hope they end up together? The only ones I want to see together are Lunkhead and Little Doormat (together they have an IQ of about 50), Big Doormat and Rene, and Caramel and Emili-Oh.

OK, now I get it! It's all Marfil's fault that Max raped Dimwit. If Marfil had told Max the truth, he never would have done it. Max tells Marfil that because of her, he's done something that will haunt him for the rest of his life. I guess among Lunkhead, Little Doormat, and me, we have an IQ of 75! Marfil wants to know what he's done.

Dimwit is explaining to Sylvie that love is sweet, caring, trusting. It doesn't cause pain, etc. This is the second time Max has doubted her word and begged for forgiveness. This time Max went too far! She then asks Sylvie if Max put her up to this conversation. Sylvie admits he did.

Max and Marfil are continuing their fight over Dimwit. For some ungodly reason, Marfil wants Max back. Max says if she truly wants to him to believe in her, she has to gather info that will prove Iggy, Diablo, and Camila set the fire that killed so many innocent people. Only then will he consider taking her back. She asks how she knows she can trust him, and that it's not some sort of trap. "That's the chance you're going to have to take!" Max stomps off and Marfil tells him they've not finished their conversation. Apparently they have. She tells us she'll stop at nothing to get him back. Yuck!

The detective is questioning Diablo about the masked man that tried to kill Dimwit. Of course Diablo denies knowing anything about it. Diablo makes it clear to the detective he is separated from Dimwit and what has happened isn't his concern. The detective then asks why he hasn't given Dimwit a divorce. "Don't you find it ironic that someone tried to kill your quasi-ex?" Diablo asks if the detective is accusing him of the crime. "No. I just find it odd." The detective then leaves.

Maxi-Creep is visiting Lunkhead. He is still whining that Dimwit won't talk to him. He can't stand not seeing her! Lunkhead tells him to be patient, but apparently patience isn't a virtue of the new-and-greatly-unimproved Maxi-Creep. He then tells Lunkhead he's using Marfil to gather info against Iggy et al. Lunkhead thinks this is kind of mean, but Maxi-Creep couldn't care less about Marfil.

Pasta and the Big Doormat are heading out. Princess Fi thinks this is the perfect time to call Maxi-Creep and tell him she's going to have his kid (which in reality, she's not). The doorbell rings and she quickly hangs up. She opens the door thinking Pasta has forgotten his keys. Alas, it's not Pasta. It's Marfil coming to throttle Princess Fi. Marfil has her hands around Princess Fi's neck and threatens her, "The kid you're expecting cannot be born!"

Credits roll.

Labels: acorralada

During the opening credits, I see Andres giving a kiss to Leonarda, but it wasn’t particularly romantic, that still doesn’t answer the question of what is up with those two.

Azul fights with Arnaldo a little bit after he said she doesn’t know anything about love, that he won’t explain his problem. She does the same thing to him, how does he like that? They calm down and Arnaldo confesses that the person who broke his heart in Brazil was a MAN. The secret is out. To his own sister at least. Azul is impactado.

Andres and Leonarda hope that things won’t change in the house when Azul moves in. She hopes that Azul won’t find a way to fire them. Andres says they have a lot of knowledge of Mauricio, so they are irreplaceable.

Arnaldo says he didn’t tell Azul before because he was afraid. She says she loves him just as much now, however he is. He begs forgiveness for not telling her before. She says she only cares if he is happy, nothing else. Arnaldo cries. A LOT.

Papa can’t find his cell phone charger. Paco offers to go get his, Papa says nah never mind. Lidia enters the room and Paco tells the parents that he and Lidia are going to get married. Needless to say, the parents are impactados. Manuel looks like he wants to throw up, Paco says “See how happy your father looks?” Ha.

Azul tells Emilia that she doesn’t know what to do about Diego, ever since he appeared her life has been worse, she is anxious and can’t sleep. She then admits to having fear over the possibilities with Diego.

Paco and Diego talk at the pool hall, Diego says he has to see Azul again, then runs off to work.

Lidia is at work with Piero, she starts getting flirty with him and he tries to pretend like he doesn’t want anything to do with her, he says he has a lot of work and steps away.

Morris finds Diego at the Mens Wearhouse. Diego pawns him off on his grandpa, Morris says he wants to buy a suit. Morris keeps wanting Diego’s help, Diego keeps trying to push him off on Abuelo. Finally Morris asks Diego if something is wrong, ah it’s your girlfriend, right? He really tries to buddy up with him. Morris says that if some girl left him, he has to go look for her and reclaim her!

Azul says her parents were like her and Diego, they were so loving together but also kept fighting and splitting up. Her phone rings, it’s Diego. She just hangs up without saying anything. Emilia says it was him right? Azul says she’s afraid.

Some guy is yelling at Morris, demanding results. He has been here 10 days and has seen nothing yet. Morris says Toscano is on it, just wait. The guy flips out and starts screaming that he wants to hear something now, he leaves to go wait at the hotel for answers. Mauricio says back at him (after he leaves) “who do you think you are? You can’t talk to me that way!” This reminds me of people who act tough after whoever is bothering them leaves – “where is he? Is he gone? Good cause I was going to kick his ass!”

Diego talks to Gisela at the pool hall. He wants a job for Morticia. Gisela doesn’t need anyone, even though she’d like to help. Diego says she can clean, wait tables, whatever. Gisela tells him how can she say no when he smiles like that? She says if the girl is stupid though, she’s out.

Manuel and Clemencia talk while walking through their laundry lines out back of the house. Mama says if Lidia made that decision, they should honor it. Manuel says Paco is a nobody and they shouldn’t allow it. He thinks maybe Lidia is pregnant, Clemencia says take that back!

Morticia is already at the pool hall meeting Gisela. She’s going to start out bussing tables. She asks if Morticia is on medication, her father used to have trouble taking medicine and concentrating. Morticia swears that she’ll do a good job.

Morris tells Andres that he went to see Diego, he thinks that he would be a good partner. Andres doesn’t look like he agrees, not sure why. Ah, he’s jealous. Morris tries to placate him. What a baby. Waa you think this other guy is nice waaaa. Azul comes in and Andres excuses himself. Azul is sad and wants a hug from Morris.

Gloria says sorry, Morticia says quit saying that all the time! They then talk about her new job being a busgirl at the pool hall. Morticia gets all morbid and tells her mother that she wishes she (Gloria) understood how much she wants to be doing things like normal people. She’s so melodramatic. Turns out Gloria wasn’t paying attention, “oh uh sorry, what were you saying?”

GSD tries to figure out what is bothering Azul. He thinks she isn’t sure about marrying Morris. Azul doesn’t answer. He asks if she loves him, she says of course, that’s not the problem. She thinks he is just worried about losing his new lab with his new toys. They argue and he tells her that when she can’t handle something she just cries. She says she just wants to help him and help Mauricio.

Morris has coffee with Andres and Leonarda. Morris says Azul is the perfect woman for him and they will all (these three) be together. She and Andres share some weird look across the table. I wish I could figure out what is the deal here, it’s bugging me.

Abuelo comes home to his buddy’s house. He brought tamales. They have quite a conversation about it. Just then some guy shows up, it’s the buddy’s son! Son wants a hug, buddy says he has to wash his hands, son says shut up and give me a hug! Buddy hugs him, then points to Abuelo and says “you remember your godfather?” Ok so we’re still keeping with the theme that every character on the show is related to or knows three other characters on the show, whether they currently interact or not. I’m sure at some point everyone will all go to the same hospital and the same church, etc. Abuelo hasn’t seen him since he was 10 years old, now he’s so big! He’s like 30, I guess they didn’t stay in touch very well. Turns out that son works for a famous designer named Julio Corso in Los Angeles. We don’t find out what Son’s name is.

Piero’s wife is at the office, she’s waiting for him to take her somewhere. Wife asks Lidai how things are with her boyfriend, she says they are getting married! Piero is impactado, but covers well. Wife leaves to wait in the car. Piero says now she an he will be in the same situation. Now suddenly he isn’t too busy for fooling around, they talk about her wedding while kissing. WTF.

Morris calls the Men’s Wearhouse, he talks to Perla and asks for Diego to get a status of his suits. Perla gets Diego on the phone. Morris wants to come to the store and have some of Diego’s time, Diego says sure. Morris says he feels like Diego doesn’t want to help him, Diego says no no not at all, he’ll make sure he’s free when Morris arrives.

Morris can travel through space in an instant, suddenly he is at the store. They look at fabric. Morris says it looks like Diego didn’t resolve things with his woman. Diego says no, and he doesn’t want to talk about it.

Azul comes home to her wife Ceci, who complains that she looked everywhere and can’t find a job, and the girl who replaced her at her old job hasn’t quit. Azul obviously couldn’t care less, she flops down on the couch. She’s playing with Diego’s cross necklace, which he left with her when she told him to leave. She tells Ceci to return it to Diego, Ceci tells her no way, she’s tired of running Azul’s errands, Azul needs to return it herself. Ceci wants Azul to confront the situation herself. Azul sniffs the necklace, can you really smell someone’s cologne on a necklace?

Diego again pawns Morris off on his abuelo, then leaves to take a phone call. It’s Azul. She says she has his cross and she’s sure it’s important to him, he says yes it’s important, that’s why he gave it to her. She says she should probably return it, he says they’ll have to talk later, he’s busy. Her cell phone rings, it’s Morris, calling from two feet away from where Diego was on the phone. She asks who he is with, he says he’s with a friend that she’ll meet soon! Morris gives Abuelo his suit order.

Piero is on the phone and Lidia enters. She says she accepts his offer of money for her honeymoon (what?) and he asks where they want to go. She wants to go to Cancun. He pulls her onto his lap, she leaves to go look at hotels.

Azul’s cell rings, it’s Diego. He says he gave her the cross because it’s special, like her, she doesn’t need to return it. He gets off the phone to find out that Abuelo was listening in. Diego says he’s sad, his heart is broken, etc. We know this story well by now.

GSD dines with Ines, who goes on about how great Mauricio is. GSD says he’s not so perfect. Ines thinks he’s jealous. GSD says Morris is treating his relationship with Azul like it’s part of his business. I guess it takes a jealous papa to see the truth, eh? He does a horrible job with his own relationship though, I must say.

For some reason Piero is with Lidia when she comes home and starts putting the moves on her, AGAIN Abuelo catches them in the act. This time he doesn’t hide, she runs over to him acting innocent. Uh sorry chickie you have been busted. Abuelo wants to know who this guy is, she says her boss. Ah, Abuelo says, now he sees how she got that promotion so easily. Piero tries to say that she is very capable and she has worked there for a long time an earned it… Abuelo says he knows how she ‘earned’ it. They are about to fight when Lidia breaks it up. Piero leaves. Lidia actually has the nerve to tell Abuelo that he’s out of line, Abuelo tells her off. Lidia just goes to her room.

Azul tells Diego again that she wants to return the cross. He gives her directions to the pool hall. She says ok, she’ll cal him before he comes. She gets off the phone and looks at Ceci and Arnaldo, they both say “no way.” She’s on her own this time. She tries to act indignant, they don’t let her off the hook. She’s on her own. She acts all pissy, finally Cecilia agrees to go with her.

Lidia mopes on her bed, Clemencia comes in to see if she wants dinner. Lidia says she isn’t hungry. Clemencia says Abuelo told her that they talked, Lidia says everyone thinks she’s just in the way. She was caught making out with her boss, where does she come up with this other stuff? Clemencia says no, she isn’t just a bother, but wants to know what’s up with her and her boss. Lidia says Piero is so great, but he’s married. Then she wants to know if it’s a good idea to marry Paco. Mama asks if she is in love, Lidia says she doesn’t think so, so Clemencia says not to do it. Lidia whines then where will she find a man for herself? Mama wisely says that isn’t a good reason to marry the first fool who comes along. Finally Clemencia says she shouldn’t marry Paco. Now Lidai doesn’t know how to tell Paco, who just happens to knock on the door right at that moment. Paco is very happy, but Lidia says she needs to tell him something.

Ceci and Azul arrive at the pool hall, Ceci likes the place. Azul and Diego see each other across the room, she walks over to him. They both look sad. He waves to Ceci across the room. Diego offers Azul a drink, she says she didn’t come to talk, just to return his necklace. She puts it in his hand, they let the touch linger. Azul says she hopes it’s the last time they see each other. Diego says fine, but it injures his soul. He wants her to keep the necklace, to know that she has a little part of him. She says that’s why she won’t keep it. He wants her to admit that she feels something for him, she says she has to leave, he says yes but she doesn’t seem to want to go. He says she is dying to be with him, like he feels for her. He knows that in her heart he is the one she loves. I’m not sure how he knows that, I guess he’s psychic. I’ll say one thing – Diego does not lack confidence.

Monday – We are lead to believe that Azul will make a big decision about who she wants to be with, but there’s no way. When that happens the show will be over.

Labels: amar

Re open with Diana fainting.

Diego continues to release his volcanic wrath on Camila for putting him and Iggy in danger by not revealing that Max is Alejandro, blah blah blah.

Iggy arrives at Octy's, and Larry punches him! Yay!

Pedro has a boring scene with Maricela about how wonderful "Alejandro" is.

Octy is angry with Larry for hitting her Iggy.

Diana cries. Silvia wears her purple Pomeranian wig.
Diana says bad things about Max, and Granny M says she shouldn't speak ill of the dead. She doesn't know yet.

Back at Pedro's, Alejandro offers to make Maricela his private secretary. Doesn't matter that she has no experience (she has only been a hairdresser and manicurist). What a wonderful man he is. No, if she only knew. Blah, blah, blah. Whatever he did, the woman will forgive him if she really loves him.

Back at Emilio's the doctor is diagnosing another "emotional fever" for Diana.

Fiona is waiting for the results of her pregnancy test. Commercial!

Max feels so guilty, but he can't tell anyone what it's all about.

Granny M tries to get Diana to eat soup for the vitamins. Diana tells her not to tell anyone what happened, particularly Gaviota.

Godmother is crying about being blind. We've got to figure this won't be long now that Mighty Max is on the job.

Emilio and Diana review the Max situation while Silvia takes the baby to the park. They seem to be hiding the truth from Silvia. Diana has come to terms with her situation by deciding that she will continue to think of Max as dead, where she will only have good memories of him, and she will think of Alejandro as a separate bad person.

Pregnancy test: another commercial, I think
Finally, about 20 minutes later, the results are negative. Fiona is pissed--she needs a baby. Dr. Valladares (I think it's the one who's trying to marry Maricela) tells her that babies are special. She shouldn't be trying to get pregnant to trap a man. She's not interested in his sermons, she says.
No, she immediately calls Marfil and asks for congratulations on her pregnancy nonetheless. Marfil is pissed, because if it really turns out to be Max, it will be another bastard by her faithless hubby.

Kike and Sharon are in the office going over whatever evidence they have that is going to do something we don't know yet. He doesn't like that she likes Larry, but ultimately, he doesn't care. They kiss. Fedora walks in! Thank God! But does this result in both of them immediately being dispatched forever? No!

Kike immediately goes into "not me" mode--she stole a kiss from him. Sharon--she's crazy. He loves his wife and wouldn't do anything to harm her. Fedora seems dubious and says she'll talk to him later at "the mansion." (wouldn't real people say "at home"?)
Exit Kiki.

Max goes to Emilio's to talk to Diana. Granny M says "Buenos dias, Maximiliano." She won't let him in! She has her one great monologue of the whole series. He is no good, and she will never let him see her granddaughter.

Back to the fabrica, where Sharon is smirking up a storm. She says she hopes Gaviota is not scared of a little kiss, little mommy false (postiza). Fedora remonstrates Sharon with a surefire notion: Gaby is Sharon's sister now, and how could she do that to her?

Now Fedora also chastises Sharon for drinking. Sharon's quick to point out that Gaviota has become quite the puritan since she quit drinking.
Sharon leaves, and Gaby comes in, asking "what's up with Chucky?" Gaviota asks who's Chucky, and Gaby explains. Fedora says that she couldn't have come up with a better name--Sharon is diabolical. Well, now, what are they going to do about it.

Godmother and Maricela have some boring conversations about not abusing Max's good will.

Max is still trying to talk to Diana. Granny M says he is a brute and if he takes one more step, she will call the police. You think you're powerful, but you never believed in her (referring back to that long-ago trial for attempted murder of Iggy). Now you come in here with a clean face and beg forgiveness. You will stop treating my granddaughter like a garbage pail. She will not see you. Max says she shouldn't deny him the chance to beg forgiveness.

I think there are a few more minutes left, but I didn't get to watch them. If someone else can fill in, it would be appreciated.

Labels: acorralada

We start with Maxi-Moron forcing himself into Dimwit's room, against her wishes, and telling her he's going to rape her as a payback for cheating on him with Diablo. Dimwit repeatedly swears she never betrayed him, but the sinverguenza doesn't believe her. He then forces himself on top of her, pinning her down on the bed, and tries to kiss her. Dimwit is sobbing.

Iggy asks Camila if Camila is absolutely, positively, unequivocally sure that Alejandro is really Max. Camila is impactada and the Orchestra of Doom plays.

Marfil and Octopus are discussing if Max and Alejandro are one and the same. Marfil can't prove it, but her sixth sense tells her he is. So help her God, if Princess Fi turns up pregnant by her Max. . .it's bad enough he has a kid with Dimwit! Octopus vows to get to the bottom of this. She'll confront Alejandro. She's his mother. He'll tell her the truth!

Camila doesn't really give Iggy an answer to his question. I think she said she tried to tell Iggy and Diego before but no one believed her.

More of the same conversation between Marfil and Octopus. Tomorrow Marfil will know if Alejandro and Max are the same.

Camila lamely tries to convince Iggy that Maxi-Moron died in the fire. Alejandro is a different guy. Iggy isn't sure and the suspenseful music plays. If Iggy and Diablo go down for the fire which allegedly killed Max, Camila's going down with them as well.

Princess Fi is thinking to herself that Max/Alejandro has to be hers; it makes no difference which of the two it is. Especially if she's pregnant.

Iggy wanders off to bed and Camila swears she will never admit Max and Alejandro are the same. She needs to convince Max she wasn't involved (although Max is well aware after overhearing her conversation with Iggy on the beach awhile back). Camila is convinced if she doesn't say a word, it will be Diablo's and Iggy's word against hers.

Dimwit is lying in bed looking sad. Apparently Max completed his rape.

Lunkhead walks in to see Octopus drinking tea in the living room. He's surprised to see her awake. She tells him Marfil told her some things that made her nervous, but tomorrow she'll find out the truth. After she leaves for bed, Lunkhead calls Gaby. Gaby wants to know if he's in love with Mocosa. Lunkhead says Mocosa is just a friend. Gaby tries to warn Lunkhead that Mocosa is bad, like "Chuky" (pronounced Choo'Key) the devil doll. Lunkhead thinks Gaby is just jealous. Gaby denies it; pointing out that Mocosa has caused a lot of pain at Psycho Mansion. Lunkhead still doesn't believe her so Gaby tells him to believe what he wants and hangs up on him. Lunkhead and Gaby's theme song plays.

Maxi-Moron tries to justify his actions saying he's basically paying her back for sleeping with Diablo, a man she didn't love. It tore him up inside; blah, blah, blah. It's all her fault. Etc. He's faux crying as he's saying this and Dimwit is just laying there, presumably naked in bed, as Max is putting on one of his too-tight gray sweater-vests. He then tells her they are finished and walks out. Dimwit sobs some more. I can't even begin to relate how stupid this show's writers are if Dimwit and Maxi-Mediocre end up together after this. From my standpoint, there can be no justification for what he just did to her. It certainly isn't true love. I HATE his character, and if I didn't feel some sort of dedication to recapping this show, I'd walk away from it. Time to get off my soap box.

Granny M and Gaby are worried that Dimwit hasn't called them. Although they say it's possible Dimwit is working at the hospital, they can't help but feel something is wrong.

Sylvie arrives at the apartment chattering about trying to make-up with Jorge. When Dimwit doesn't respond, she goes into Dimwit's room. Apparently Dimwit has passed out; she doesn't respond to Sylvie.

Max pours himself a stiff drink and flashes back to the rape, in which Dimwit pleads if he loved her, he would believe she never slept with Diablo. The music let us know that Maxi-Moron is tormented by this. Good. He ought to be!

Lunkhead is splayed out on the sofa thinking about Gaby and how they're never going to be able to be together. The phone rings and it's Max, identifying himself as Alejandro. He needs to talk to Lunkhead immediately. Meanwhile Yolanda appears in Octopus' room. Yolanda tells Octopus that Lunkhead left suddenly. Octopus opines it's probably to see Gaby.

Dimwit is now awake. She refuses to tell Sylvie what happened. When Sylvie asks if Dimwit is trying to figure out what to do about her feelings for Max vs. Alejandro, Dimwit says she wants nothing to do with "him."

Yolanda tells Octopus she's been consoling Pasta and how broken up Pasta is after Fidiota married Roddy. Octopus says Pasta deserves what he gets. She then tells Yolanda that although Pasta is a free man, Octopus will never allow a nun such as Yolanda, who's been abandoned by Rene, to be with her ex-husband!

Lunkhead arrives at Alejandro's. Lunkhead is surprised that Alejandro wants to talk to him at 2 a.m. Alejandro whips off his glasses and admits "It's me, your brother Max!" Lunkhead, true to form, is impactado! It's a good thing Alejandro removed his glasses to prove his point.

Octopus continues berating Yolanda. Octopus doesn't want Yolanda falling in love with Pasta. Yolanda says, "Of course I won't; I only love Rene." Octopus goes on to say that Rene has already forgotten Yolanda. Yoli is not a teenager. Rene is in Germany where he's bound to meet a girl his own age, fall in love, and get married. That's our Octopus, ever the supportive one. She certainly can't have Yolanda happy. . .

Pasta is on the sofa moaning Fidiota's name.

Octopus continues berating Yolanda, who is now in tears. Octopus chides, "You are always going to be single!" Octopus, on the other hand, has found love with a new man. Iggy. He makes her feel great! She reminds Yolanda, yet again, to stay away from Pasta.

Lunkhead still doesn't believe Alejandro is Max. Finally Max convinces Lunkhead by telling him the fire at the asylum was deliberately set by Diablo and Iggy, with Camila's help. Max had to assume a new identity so he can take revenge on his enemies. No one else can know the truth; however. Ah, that does the trick! They lament the loss of Peyote. Lunkhead said Pasta has taken it incredibly hard. Max can't understand why, so Lunkhead tells him Pasta was Peyote's real dad!

Dimwit is flashing back to her confrontations with Maxi-Moron, in which he believed the words of Diablo over her. She then says Alejandro is as big a pig as Diablo! Max tries to throttle her and says don't you dare compare us! Back in real time, Dimwit collapses to the floor in a sodden mass.

Max thanks Lunkhead for explaining Peyote's lineage. Lunkhead then goes on to say that Octopus is engaged to Iggy. Max makes Lunkhead swear not to say a word that he's alive. Lunkhead swears. Lunkhead then wants to know why it's so urgent that Max came out of the closet. Max says something happened that's going to hound him forever.

Dimwit is still flashing back on the events leading to her rape.

Max confesses to Lunkhead that he raped Dimwit. Lunkhead asks if Dimwit denied being with Diablo. "A thousand times," says the cretin, "but I didn't believe her!" Max tries to make himself into the victim after all of this. He doesn't know what got into him. Now Dimwit is really going to hate him. Lunkhead counsels him to find Dimwit and beg for forgiveness. Lunkhead believes Dimwit would never have slept with Diablo. Dimwit is good, pure, etc. Max regrets, rightfully so, that he was such a schmuck. Cry me a river, Maxi-Sinverguenza!

Lala tells Granny M about catching Diablo and Marfil in bed. Before Granny M can fully react, the phone rings. Dimwit begs Granny M to come to Emil-Oh's apartment. She needs her granny!

Probably the best scene of the show. Diablo is told the music school has been sold to Pedro and the name of the school has been changed to Peyote Irrascible. Out walks Max as Diablo is told, "You're Fired!" Diablo is muy impactado!

Octopus is at Pedro's house, but alas, Alejandro has already left. Octopus asks if Alejandro is really her son, Max. Pedro is impactado.

Mocosa has moved into Gaby's office at Perfumes 'R Us. She is kissing her photo of Lunkhead. Gaby walks in and the fight is on, including Gaby hurling the photo of Lunkhead across the room. Fidiota asks what all the shouting is about, so Gaby says Mocosa has moved into her office and has a photo of Lunkhead. Mocosa asks Fidiota, "Are you going to take HER side? Gaby broke a photo of my boyfiend, Lunkhead! Do I need to tell my dad?

Dimwit tells Granny M that Max came over drunk and raped her. Dimwit is never going to forgive him. Yeah, right. Emili-Oh overhears the conversation.

Fidiota makes Little Doormat give Mocosa the office. After Fidiota leaves, Mocosa tells Gaby she's not going to rest until Roddy divorces Fidiota. Gaby calls her "Chuky, the demon doll" and walks out. Mocosa scowls.

More of the confrontation between Alejandro and Diablo. Finally the Music Director tells Diablo to leave or he'll call the police. Diablo stalks out.

Kick Me is in the Mocosa's new office with an envelope. He's brought what Mocosa requested. Mocosa is gloating about "her diabolical plan," although we don't know what that plan is yet.

More of Dimwit telling Granny M what happened. Emili-Oh is horrified. Suddenly Granny M and Dimwit realize he's in the room. Dimwit jumps to her feet.

Pedro denies Alejandro is really Max. Octopus tells Pedro she'll return later.

Emili-Oh wants Dimwit to confirm that Max is really alive. Dimwit tries to deny it, but Emili-Oh wants confirmation he wasn't hallucinating in the hospital when Alejandro admitted the truth. Emili-Oh starts to run off to confront Max about what happened with Dimwit. Dimwit begs him not to get involved; he's still weak after the stabbing. Emili-Oh has already run out and Dimwit collapses. Granny M screams for help and Emili-Oh runs back in. He keeps grimacing as he's trying to revive Dimwit. I guess this is to show us he's not at 100% after being released from the hospital.

Credits roll!

Labels: acorralada

This is about the first third only, as I had to turn in my DVR for a new one, so I lost my recording of this and Friday.

We open with Diego and Azul fighting cute over the flat tire (llana or neumatico). Azul insists she will change it herself, and Diego watches and offers her a drink because it's so hot, etc. Finally she gives in and accepts his help. There is some double entendre here that I cannot understand. He says he is helping or something, and she says she is referring to the car. He says she makes him nervous because he wants things to go well.
He says if he can't concentrate it's her fault because he loves to see her smile. She says he also has a nice smile. Then he will smile all the time, he says. You will get wrinkles (arrugar), she says. If it made her happy, he would get as wrinkled as a pasita. (pasa is raisin, so it would be a little raisin)

You'll be ugly, she says. Oh, so you think I'm not ugly, he says. Well, she says, what is this ugly, ugly, ugly. You are not ugly, and you know it. Now they are back to changing the punctured tire.

He says he will help her get to the tire store after changing to the spare, and he hopes she will give him a lift (aventon) back to work, as he is late.

Back at home, Clemencia is on the phone. She is opening some boxes of medicine and telling the caller that they just came. She has to bring them to the Casa Hogar (household house?). Must be the charitable place they work. She says it's easy, he won't have to leave his post, her husband Manuel will give her a lift.

Manuel comes down. It was Demetrio the paramedic she had told him about. He asks her why she is so nervous and red. She says it's just that she ran down the stairs to answer the phone. Manuel wants to know how old Demetrio is. He's about fifty, but he acts very juvenile. All the nurses are crazy about him. She asks Manuel to take her to the Casa Hogar to return the medicines. Manuel wants to check out this "encantador," or enchanter of the ladies.

Meanwhile, Diego wants to know how Azul can resist the urge (aguantarse las ganas) to be with him. He is dying of love. She reminds him that she has a boyfriend and they are doing well. He asks if she and the boyfriend were seeing each other still when Diego first met her. He says it's incredible the security they have--he has no idea where it comes from--from you, he says. When can they see each other? (sad piano tinkling) We can never meet. We are going on separate "carriles," rails.

Labels: amar

We open as Nidia is impactada about Juan being a chauffeur. Yadi is standing over her in the living room arms crossed and scowling, while Alirio and Nidia, seated, are pondering this news. “It can’t be!” Yadira assures her it CAN be, and appearances can fool one. Yadi continues, almost yelling, that “you’re going to realize that we’ve been dummies, treating him well, with caring, with what we gave him….” Nidia can’t believe it, and she can’t believe none of them realized anything. She insists that it’s impossible that Juanito has been putting on such a show for them for all this time. Yadi says it’s possible and who know how many lies he’s told. He was able to tell us that he was a high level executive, and the company gave him a car…..Alirio tries to interrupt and Yadi yells on “who knows how many more things he was capable of inventing.” She stomps her foot and puts her hands on her hips. She insists there was no right for him to do that. Alirio finally interrupts that he suspected Juan from the beginning and no one believed him. He suspected this lazybones (zángano). “I warned you, told you to take care with him.” This guy they gave their trust to, and were so familiar with, was not good. “I told you so. It went in one ear and out the other. I told you this boy couldn’t be trusted.” Yadi drags her mother out of the chair; she wants to throw all his belongings out into the street, because she is sure her mother won’t let him come into the house again. Alirio says before they stick their noses in Juan’s door upstairs, they are going to sing him four truths (?? Help with translation of this dicho? “cantarle cuatro verdades y echarlo de aquí, a patadas”) and throw him out of here. Yadi calls Juan names out of frustration. He’s a cynical, vile person.

Speak of the devil! We are treated to a long pan up Juan’s naked leg toward his lovely torso….okay, so it’s Ana’s charcoal portrait….with some nice honky tonk music. We get a good long look at his upper body and intense look in the pose he did. Ana is surveying her handiwork and flexing her hands when the phone rings. It’s Ivonne. They exchange greetings, and Ivonne lets Ana know that CL wants to have her come to his office to meet with him on the following day. Ana is perplexed. She’ll be there, she says. They say goodbye and Ivonne hangs up as Juan approaches her desk. We see Ana looking suspiciously at her phone.

Meanwhile, in his office CL is talking animatedly with a colleague. He reminds the fellow that he owes CL several favors. CL wants to meet with the guy tomorrow, as early as possible. He’ll tell the guy all about what he wants. At his door, we see someone’s head through the translucent glass….could it be Juan? Well, of course it is! CL completes his call as Juan signals that he wants a little time (very good American Sign Language, I might add. This is not the first time I’ve seen Juan use bona fide ASL. I wonder how he knows any of it….but I digress). CL waves him in and completes the call. He tells Juan he’s come up with a solution to Juan’s problem. Juan is relieved. His soul has returned to his body (me devuelve el alma al cuerpo). He thanks CL profusely. But, wait, don’t thank me. There is one more little thing that you need to do. Juan says, just tell me, it’ll happen. CL informs him he has to speak with Pastor. Juan is impactado. He thought bubbles that the boss began to explain what had been decided about how he had to deal with that Pastor (more Juanisms, sorry I didn’t catch it all). Juan thought bubbles that he swears to us at this moment he thought twice. But he didn’t have many choices. He could deal with dogface Pastor or end up in the street. Cost or benefit. [Ed. Note: Dammed if I do, damned if I don’t, my take on translation.]

Ana is sitting in her living room, on the phone again. Meanwhile, we get a side shot of Juan’s portrait. [Ed. Note: there’s plenty of detail in a side shot, trust me on this.] She’s talking to Paula and telling her something rather strange has happened. She tells Paula that CL’s secretary called, saying that he wanted to see Ana in his office, urgently. She wonders if he’s going to ask Ana for Paula’s hand. Paula chuckles; she doubts very much he’d do it in this manner. But Ana is puzzled. Paula tells her just to go to the appointment and find out. She tells her mother not to stop calling to let her know the gossip, and they say goodbye.

Alirio is in the study with Nidia and is still lecturing Nidia about Juan, who Alirio asserts he thinks is an opportunist. He wants to know “in concrete” what she knows about Juan, who he is, for certain. He tells her to think about it well. They opened their door to Juan, without any letter of recommendation or identification. He shakes his finger at her and warns her more about Juan’s motives. Juan’s just waiting for the right moment to pounce and leave them in the vile street. Nidia sits back in the chair, impactada. “You think?” Alirio continues to try to convince her. She tells him [Ed. Note: darn hesitantly, if you ask me] that for the first time in this life, she thinks he might be right. She’s going to find out everything about Juanito. He wonders how she can do that, since he’s an imposter and one of the best. He pounds on the desk. Nidia smirks. She knows who can help her in this, her cousin Delfina. She explains how when Juan came from Chichipico, he told them Delfina sent him. Delfina will tell them details about this mystery man. Alirio is pleased.

Juan is leaving CL’s office, still thought bubbling rapid-fire about what he’s going to do with this situation with Pastor. [Ed. Note: his facial expressions are absolutely marvelous as he goes through contortions regarding how he has been told he has to handle this. He’s got a rubber face.] He’s thinking of the cost of having to do this. But he muses that he can do the theatrical thing, though it will leave Pastor convinced of his power. Huy. That’s his luck, to have this misfortune. He looks disgusted.

Paula comes out of her office into the lobby and sees Juan. She asks what’s up. Is he staying? He whispers “yes.” She is excited and tells him that’s great. Marely, in the background, doesn’t seem to be paying attention to them. He thought bubbles as he stares at Paula with his heart on his sleeve that it’s for her, his goddess of gold, his little dove. He’s staying so he doesn’t have to stop seeing her. He’s confronting this humiliation for her. He tells her that Don Cesár Luis helped him solve the quarrel. She is jubilant. She tells him how pleased it makes her. He thought bubbles again that he’s not so thrilled. He tells her that he has one little detail to take care of with Pastor. She tells him that he is not to allow himself to be maltreated. He assures her that he won’t. They leave each other with her wishing him luck. [Ed. Note: Well, his luck is definitely improving as he gets a good view of her derriere, which he turns and admires as she goes off to CL’s office.]

CL comes from behind his desk to grab Paula and kiss her, calling her his love. As we see people in the lobby strolling by the office, through the rather open blinds over her shoulder, she tells CL not to forget this behavior is strictly forbidden in company policy. He shakes his head and sighs, while she asks if he wants Pastor Gaitán to run her off from the company? He tells her it’s not such a bad idea, since then they could end up in his bed and she’d be at his side. She kisses him again and smiles seductively; he asks if there’s some special motive that brought her here. Yes, she affirms. Well, could it be that I’m an irresistibly attractive guy? No, she flirts. Maybe I’m a guy whose always in your dreams? Could be. But she wants to give him thanks for what he’s done for Juan. He tells her that she’s probably realized he’s capable of anything that makes her happy. [Ed. Note: not to put too fine a point on it, but clearly he’s even capable of adultery and pathological type lying to make her happy—at least momentarily happy]. Her desires are his orders. She has realized, and it enchants her. He confesses that she probably doesn’t realize, but Juan is the only man he’ll allow to breathe the same air as she does. [Ed. Note: little do YOU know, CL. You’ll regret letting Juan breathe the same air. He’s going to do more than that, we’re guessing.] He knows that Juan doesn’t represent any threat, he continues….. She tells him she likes jealous men. [Ed. Note: Better pay attention, Paula, Juan is even more jealous than CL. Don’t underestimate it.] He tells her she brings him to craziness for love, she brings him to put up with Pastor, and he wants her to know that from this moment on she’s not only the owner of his heart, she owns his willpower, she’s his weakness, she’s the owner of his infinite love for her. She owns the company and the whole world. She remarks on that and he adds that she’s the owner of the universe. He’ll give it all to her. [Ed. Note: Sheesh.] She smiles, kisses him and tells him he’s going to have to hand over all his actions to her. He gives his word of honor. Good. So why do you have an appointment in this office with my mother? He looks impactado and possibly at a loss for words, but we all know with CL that won’t last long. He smiles, chuckles nervously, and regroups as we go to commercial.

Juan is standing at military attention in front of Pastor’s desk. Arms at his sides, back straight, head up high, he tells Pastor “It’s for this, Don Pastor, that I am asking for another opportunity, and ask your pardon for all the inconveniences that I have brought upon this company.” Pastor asks if he’s prepared to comply with the policies, do what his superiors ask him to, including ME? “¡Si, Señor!” Juan thought bubbles to himself, encouraging himself to be calm, “compa” which I am guessing is probably short for compatriota=compatriot. Don’t give him anything more to use on his side. Pastor puts his left hand into the air as witnesses do when they swear to tell the truth. Is Juan prepared to get serious, be responsible, be on time, with integrity, honest, without falsehoods or lies of any kind, from now on? Juan raises his right hand and swears he is. He mutters a thought bubble to himself about protesting about so much pulling it out of him. He asks the Blessed Child of Atocha for patience. [Ed. Note: “protesto” apparently means both I protest/complain and I affirm or swear to something, as in court]/

And, Pastor continues, are you prepared to leave off trying to pose like Adonis [Ed. Note: probably a good thing Pastor doesn’t know how much like Adonis Juan really looks posing in the altogether], of Don Juan never resting, (traznochar/traznochado = stay up all night, never sleeping), and cease playing the lead in all these embarrassing scenes, and finally just to get in the habit to act like the chauffeur you are? Juan swears again, thought bubbling about the snake’s venom already taking hold (entered in).

Pastor drops his hand, looking fairly satisfied, “very good.” One more thing, Pastor warns him. You need to know that he won’t tolerate that each thing Juan has his attention called to causes him to run crying to his boss about Pastor, is that understood? Understood! Juan raises his hand again to swear, looking off at the wall above Pastor. Pastor is now fully satisfied. He tells Juan they are canceling his previous contract and Juan will have to start all over, with a new probationary period. Juan first responds “perfect” but Pastor clarifies what this means. Juan whines, “But, Don Pastor…” Pastor is stern and says, if it pleases you, but if not, you are free to take your services to another company.” Juan knows he’s stuck and looks disgusted. Pastor shakes his finger and warns Juan that one little failure, one complaint from anyone, etc., and he’s history. This time we’re going to see if you have the willpower to change, because frankly, Juan, I don’t believe. Juan thought bubbles that all he needs to do now is kiss Pastor’s feet, but he’ll cope. On the one hand, the ladies Cachón depend on his employment, and on the other hand he doesn’t want to leave Marely there alone in the hands of this mousy buzzard (zopilote ratonero). What’s more, Juan tells himself, he’s crazy in love with Paula. Now he understands those who are prepared to fight to the death for love. He’s one.

CL is trying to explain to Paula about his appointment with Ana. He wanted to surprise her. She tells him it’s making her nervous; is he planning to ask her mother for her hand? That would make him so happy, he says, but no, his buddy needs a really great executive secretary. He just wanted to give her Mami the good news. She is thrilled and jumps up to kiss him. What has she done to deserve all this? She’s just the woman he loves, he assures her.

Ivonne busts in the door. ;-) Ah, sorry to interrupt you! She stalks out as Paula jumps away from the steamy kiss. CL follows Paula, telling her to be calm, they haven’t done anything wrong. [Ed. Note: clearly, CL has a different definition of “wrong” than the one in my dictionary]. She is sure that now Ivonne has seen them, who knows what will happen? CL continues to try and calm her. He says they are adults, and free. She says she knows, but she prefers that something so lovely to them doesn’t become the gossip du jour. He smiles a little and sighs.

Ivonne has a habit of busting in doors without knocking. Pastor looks up, startled at the whirlwind blowing through his door. She calls Paula names, she hates the d*** witch! Pastor wonders what’s up; she gave him a scare and almost left him stuck on the ceiling. She tells Pastor, with considerable more histrionics and wishing the pair of them to fall dead on the floor, that she caught that stupid Paula Dávila in CL’s office kissing him. Pastor murmurs sympathetically. She tells him he should have seen that kiss. “You mean the same kind that you had with Don CL in that same office?” “Ay, yes.” He reminds her there is nothing to be done, life’s like a mirror, there are things that don’t please us when we look, and that hurt. Ivonne complains that she doesn’t understand what’s happening, it should be her in that office. They look sadly at each other.

Juan begins to complain to Fernando, who is trying to read, in the garage. He’s not happy about the apology he had to give Pastor to stay employed in the company. Fernando points out he had the solution in his arms, he just had to go for the gusto (take hold of the pleasure, implying that he could have taken Pastor in his arms). Juan slaps Fern on the chest with his comic book and fusses at him. They fuss at each other a little more, then Juan has a new plan. Remember what we talked about the other day? He reminds Fern that Fern suggested Pastor needs a new boyfriend. Fern sees where this is going, says “nuh-uh,” and tries to walk away with Juan trailing. Juan looks around to make sure no one’s eavesdropping [Ed. Note: good try, Juan, but these walls have ears], and tries to convince him that “we have to” find Pastor someone macho enough, like himself, and it’ll be done. No more Pastor. Fern crosses his hands and scowls. “WE have to? WE have to?” Fern wants no part of it. Juan keeps working on him. Here it is! We go to one of those bars, where everyone plays in the same orchestra. You know, catch the eye of one, give him some cash, and convince him. The chicken’s ready! Fern is totally disbelieving that Juan has concocted this. [Ed. Note: Good, Fern, especially after his last scheme for you]. He shakes his head in disbelief.

Pastor is standing behind Ivonne, comforting her, as she sits in his office. Over his shoulder, we see through the very open blinds that other employees are moving around the lobby. Doesn’t ANYONE in this company do their non-company business in PRIVATE? Pastor tells her this is one of the mysteries of love, that they break our hearts and we never see it coming (sin saber a qué hora). He pats her shoulders. She whimpers that they don’t deserve it. He agrees. He’s decided because of this he’s going to take up his arms. Tonight he’s going out cruising. No looking back (ni nostalgia ni nada), anything goes (it’s all worth it—todo se vale). She says he’s scaring her. He asserts tonight it’s all or nothing. She says he’s right, there’s no reason to get bitter over this pair. She says it’ll be both of them, because she’s going to do exactly the same, if she’s invited. He says of course, they’ll say goodbye to tears and enjoy themselves. He reaches around behind her and hugs her, calling her his friend.

In the garage, Fern tells Juan to count him out. Juan runs after him, still trying to convince him not to let Juan die alone. Help me today, I’ll help you tomorrow. It’s life or death. Fern asks if he’s for real. Juan wants him to lend a hand. He continues to work on Fern, who continues to express serious doubts, but “I don’t know” seems to leave the door open. He’ll think about it.

Nidia is behind the desk in her study, on the phone. Alirio hovers over the desk in front of it, wondering what the conversation is about. Nidia gasps and exclaims to the person at the other end. “What? Don’t tell me! He did what?” Alirio wants to know and tries to interrupt for her to fill him in. Nidia continues to chuckle, exclaim, and ask questions. Alirio is frustrated that he can’t follow it. “In how much time? Who could believe it?” Alirio is practically jumping over the desk. She waves him off. She tells the person at the other end goodbye, take care, we’ll be in touch, and hangs up. It’s her cousin. Alirio confronts her, “AND??” “What?” “What do you mean, what? What did your cousin Delfina tell you!??” Nothing special. Alirio isn’t buying it, she was on the phone an hour. Well, she is my cousin; she loves gossip. But, what about Juan? Nidia won’t be able to tell him. He is really frustrated now. Nidia wants to hear Juan’s version and compare them before she makes up her mind. He fusses at her. She regrets it, but no, she’s not telling him more (such an innocent face). He fusses that she could be talking about a socially maladaptive criminal here. She interrupts that it seems Alirio is the great lawyer who would condemn a person without all the info. He dogs her about what cousin Delfina said. Nidia wants him to let her take care of it, then she’ll tell him. He sighs loudly and scowls.

Ana comes to Marely’s desk, carrying a long white tube. [Ed. Note: we’re taking bets on what it is, folks. I bet it’s a portrait of Adonis. Ooops, Juan]. They greet each other and Ana asks if Paula is quite busy. Marely tells her no, and tells her to go on in. Ana does. Paula is pleased to see her Mami. Ana admires the office and congratulates her. She wonders if Paula has found out why CL wants to see her.

Speaking of the Devil, we find CL behind his desk talking to Ana, telling her that he wants to offer her an excellent opportunity. He asks about it. His wealthy businessman friend, Alberto Cardanas, is looking for an executive secretary, and he needs one urgently, so CL recommended Ana to him. She thanks him profusely; she doesn’t know what to say. He tells her he’s doing Alberto a favor. [Ed. Note: Sheesh]. It’s hard to find a person like her these days. He tells her she has the experience, is responsible, with initiative, hard working, and of course, pretty. Above all, she’s honest. [How would YOU know, Cesár Luis?] She thanks him. He tells her he couldn’t say these things if he didn’t believe them.

Ana is back in Paula’s office, getting a hug from her daughter. They talk about what a nice thing he’s done, but Ana is a bit afraid. Paula reassures her. She’s the best secretary in the country. The best painter, too. No fears, and we’re going to celebrate at my new apartment, Ma. Ana thought she’d never ask. Paula goes to tell CL they are leaving and Ana looks around Paula’s office.

In CL’s office, he’s giving her a mock hard time about leaving him all alone while she goes off to enjoy time with her Mami. The guilt trip doesn’t work. He kisses her. But, he would have like to spend the time with her. She laughs at him. She’s left her mother feeling abandoned and now is going to pay some attention to her. He tells her it’s totally her right, no excuses needed. Just forget about me. (There’s a guilt trip if she wants it). She tells him if he keeps being so understanding with her, she might end up in love with him. “Do you think?” he asks. That’s the idea. They kiss again in front of the pretty much open blinds, and she goes. CL looks up to the ceiling, “how convenient!” He runs to the phone and calls home. He pretends to be formal, asking if he can speak with Mrs. Farell. Monica plays along. She’s not here, who’s looking for her? The father of the child she’s expecting. He’s dying to see her. Okay, Monica tells him, I’ll let her know, and anything else? CL tells her yes, let her know we’ll eat together tonight. Monica says the Mrs. is going to fall backwards (va a irse a espaldas), she won’t be able to believe it! He tells her, believe it, and fix something special. She falls back onto the bed and tells him she’ll be waiting (my love), and kisses the air toward the phone several times. She looks happily at her phone and CL looks calculatingly pleased at his, then smiles very, very smugly.

In the garage, Juan is pleased to see Ana and Paula and greets them with light chitchat. She says she didn’t want to give him a heart attack. She presents him with the tube. For me? Yes. You shouldn’t have bothered. He realizes what it is, and seductively pulls the portrait out of the tube, unrolling it swiftly and holding it up to face them so Paula gets another great look. Juan is all smiles. He thought bubbles about the lady having her talent. He wears a proud smile (not in the portrait). Paula compliments her mother on the lovely portrait. [Ed. Note: that’s a mild understatement, Paula, it’s way more than lovely.] He turns it around to face himself and the ladies come around so Paula can have a better look. Paula says, wow, and compliments his “big frame” and how handsome he is—but he keeps it all hidden. He thought bubbles about how this sent him right to the moon on a one-way ticket (boleto de ida) and put him where he could see the stars. He tells her she is his light of the moon, and he desires her for his sad nights, to help with the illusion. Paula compliments him again and he thanks her.

Nidia sighs loudly as she sits in her living room. She gets up as she sees Marely coming home and tells her it’s good she’s arrived. She pulls Marely to the living room. She’s so distressed (mortificada). Why? Don’t tell me you don’t know already! What? About Juan! Oh, yes, Mama, I know it all. Her mother mutters about Juan, but Marely says she has reserved judgment. What brought this crazy boy to them? Nidia tells Marely she’s the only one in the house with her feet on the ground, so what does she think about this? [Ed. Note: maybe Nidia has some sense after all, if she realizes this]. What should Nidia do? Send Juan right out to the street, or give him a second chance? What do you think? Marely frowns thoughtfully. I don’t know.

Juan runs around the car to let Paula and Ana out. They say their farewells, and Juan thanks Ana for the lovely gift, so personalized, eh? They chuckle. Ana tells him he’s welcome, and that she might need another favor sometime. Juan is a little embarrassed. He says, sure, that’s all right, I’ll be a model again—just between us. Juan thought bubbles to himself that he’s deduced that since Paula’s bringing her mother to her apartment, she won’t be with CL tonight. He is exultant about it.

At the steelhouse, Monica is walking into the living room with CL. She wonders why he decided to come home at the last minute. He throws out a convenient story about wanting to be with her, she’s due some time with him. She says she’s going to take advantage of the time, then. She strokes his face and kisses his forehead, asking what she can get for him. A whiskey. She jumps up to get it. He pulls her back down and hugs her close, saying I want you with me. She smiles happily. He tells her he hopes she is not so bored cooped up here. No, she’s not. She’s been busy with calls. But, she needs to ask him something. Did he have something to do with the problem she had finding Ana Dávila? [Ed. Note: you haven’t learned which buttons not to push, have you, Monica?] CL is impactado and PUT OUT.

After the break, CL uses the time-tested strategy of two-timing men all over the world: the best defense is a good offense. “What are you saying to me?” Monica tells him not to get all bent out of shape, just give her a simple answer if he had something to do with her difficulty in finding Ana. Of course not! How did she come up with such an absurd idea? He fusses at her, he didn’t even know she was having problems finding Ana. Monica points out that Ivonne didn’t want to give her the phone number, and when I told you that I was going to work with Ana Dávila…..CL interrupts her, “okay, then I did it, threatened Ivonne not to give out information, or what?” [Ed. Note: nice ploy, CL, that’s exactly what you did but it’s making Monica back down when you put it that way]. Monica sighs. “Think about what you’re saying!” CL’s almost yelling. Monica wants to know why Ana doesn’t please him. [Ed. Note: if you only knew, Monica]. He changes the direction of the argument. She needs someone with experience in the food business, and Ana is from the transportation industry. Monica points out that a really good executive secretary has skills that will be useful regardless. He wonders if she really liked someone, why would he interfere in the hiring? She says she doesn’t know. “You tell me.” He looks away and sighs.

Paula’s mother tells her the apartment is divine, though perhaps a little small. Paula says it’s just fine, and very well furnished. Ana comments that the rents in this neighborhood must be through the roof (in the clouds). Paula supposes so. What?? You don’t know? Ana crosses her arms. Don’t tell me that CL is covering it? Paula says they don’t have time to talk about that. Ana tries again. She reminds Paula of the first life lesson. Paula says she knows, keep the money issues separated from the love. She’s got the song memorized. Well, it wasn’t enough, from what Ana has seen. You have to not only memorize the first lesson, you have to put it in practice. Paula protests fondly; she doesn’t see a problem. CL puts her into the clouds, she’s so in love. She forgets the rest of the world. They keep looking at the apartment while Paula assures her mother he’s the best thing that has happened to her. Ana wants to know one thing: is he still living in the same house as his wife? They look at each other, Ana disapprovingly. Paula can’t answer.

At the steelhouse, CL gets up from their cozy place on the huge black leather sofa and goes to the bar, still talking at Monica. “Let’s not beat around the bush.” He wants to know what she’s getting at. She denies she’s getting at something, she just wants clarification. He pours a drink, “sure. It’s not what you ask, it’s how you ask it.” She still doesn’t want him to get bent out of shape, just answer her simply. He throws back the drink. He’s told her a thousand times [Ed. Note: your math isn’t any better than your truthiness, CL], he didn’t have anything to do with impeding her search for Ana. If she doesn’t believe him, what should he do? He whips out his Palm Pilot and brings up Ana’s info, thrusting it in her face. Here’s Ana. [Ed. Note: right about now, I’d be calculating how much I’m getting in the divorce]. He says the mystery of Ana is solved. [Ed. Note: I don’t think so. Why’s she in your Palm Pilot?] Monica looks away, disgusted with how this little chat has gone. They fuss some more, with him trying to lay a guilt trip on her about coming home eagerly to have a little lovin’ from the little woman, and getting an interrogation instead. He asks her what he’s done to have her distrust him so much. He gives her “that look” and clinks his glass on the bar, turns on his heel, and leaves. Monica is sooo frustrated.

Nidia and Marely are contemplating Juan over Nidia’s desk (the desk formerly known as Samuel’s) in the study. Nidia says all men are the same and Juan’s no exception, but it is so strange to her that Marely, always so correct and upright, has covered up his lies. She protests (a little weakly, if you ask me) that she only discovered this recently. He swore to Marely he was trying to find an opportunity to tell them the truth. Nidia scoffs. Now look how they found out! Her sister walked right into it all. Why’d he invent this story about being such a great executive? Marely says he was either too macho or naïve, thinking he should impress them. In his reality, it probably seemed like a small thing. Nidia points out that with those lies of Juan’s and Fernando’s, her sister has suffered. Marely says she’s not defending their behavior. She tried to tell her sister, who wouldn’t listen. Nidia admits that the Cachón gals like their creature comforts with a guy who has money. Marely tells her to speak for herself (don’t include me). Okay, okay, Nidia says. She still doesn’t know what to do with him. Marely looks anxious.

Paula is serving Ana, who is at the table in the kitchenette. She explains she can’t ask CL to kick his estranged wife out to the street. He’s a gentleman. {Ed. Note: uh-huh (nodding dubiously)]. Ana points out if the separation is firmed up, they don’t have to keep living together. They fuss about it more and Paula tells her mother she doesn’t want to CL to think she is pressuring him. Ana notes that if they’re doing things as God wills, she won’t have to feel so bothered. It’s not that easy, Paula tells her. They’re trying to be civilized about it, and Paula doesn’t want to be hysterical. Ana tells her there’s no reason for them to be shouting, but it should be above board, not under the table. She reminds Paula about her father. She’s putting herself in second place. Paula sighs in frustration. Ana says if one lets oneself be too pampered, it works against one. She knows what she’s talking about. Paula says CL isn’t like that. Like what? Your father? Yes, for example, Paula asserts. Ana tells her God is listening to her.

Marely tells Nidia that Juan got mixed up in this to be accepted, nothing more. Nidia asks her “are you sure?” What else, Marely asks. He’s spending his whole chauffeur’s salary to cover the costs of this household. Nidia thinks about this. And he’s telling us who knows how many more lies, Marely asks. She continues arguing his case. He’s not bad people. He’s done it all for us. Nidia shrugs and agrees, he’s collaborated and she realizes that. But why would he have this interest in us? Because we welcomed him, opened our door when he had no place to go. Nidia agrees, they received him like family. Marely thinks he has behaved well, but his lying is like a sickness. Nidia tries to repeat the word, “mitomania.” Marely says it again. (Mito is the Spanish word for mythology, so she’s describing a sickness that involves creating a mythological/fantasy world for oneself, it seems). It’s a psychological disorder. Nidia is afraid. Marely assures her it’s not dangerous.

Juan checks out a drawer in the garage, and we can assume the tube with his portrait is there. One wonders if Pastor is going to search and find it before long, gentle readers. He hears Fern coming in and rushes to greet him. Why’s Fern so late? Bad traffic, and CL’s house is way out in the sticks. Juan pushes him about the proposal earlier to go to one of those bars to find a boyfriend for Pastor. He tells Fern he won’t be sorry. Fern is already sorry. He is wary of this little plan that Juan has concocted as he goes to the desk and signs out for the night while Juan tries to convince him it will work. Juan tells him he’s just inviting Fern for a couple of brewskis, and he needs to be calm. Nothing’s gonna happen, and if it goes well, they’ll go someplace else, too.

Ivonne is still wondering if they really have to go to one of those bars. Pastor, who has lost his tie and vest, and has his bright yellow shirt open halfway down his slightly hairy chest, plays dumb, and asks “what kind of bar?” Well, you know, where you go. Pastor tells her they are all the same. But this one has good-looking guys, possibilities. He wiggles suggestively. Does she understand? Something unexpected might happen. [Ed. Note: no question in our minds that something unexpected will happen since Juan and Fern are heading the same direction.] She tells him maybe for you….but she doesn’t want to know any more about men, at least for the rest of the day. She wonders how men in that bar are going to look at her. He tells her that there the law of the jungle rules, and there’s a high level of testosterone, , and the European concept of “muy open mind.” [Gee, his English is good.] They’ll look at her like the diva she is. She tells him he would be the perfect man, except for one small detail. They chuckle; he tells her he’s a mirror looking at his reflection because he could say the same about her. Let’s go. He heads for the door, leaving Ivonne in the dust. The phone rings. She answers it at his request in case it’s the boss, and at the other end Nidia asks for Juan very coyly. Ivonne says he’s left. Nidia asks how long? Ivonne couldn’t say. She hangs up and muses to Pastor about this one asking for Juanito. A very rude old woman. He tells her it doesn’t matter to him. He’s looking after his own back; Juan is yesterday’s news. She strokes his toupee lovingly. They purr at each other. He tells her “nosotros, a la party” (we’re off to party). They head out, happy.

In the garage, Juan has a paper he’s checking and is surprised at the number of places where people go that are uninhibited and “modern.” Fern does a little skip. Looks like he’s glad to be off work and not so disturbed about Juan’s plan any more. Fern wants to know one thing; does he think they will really find someone for Pastor? He has his preferences. He and Juan laugh. Juan tells him it has to be someone tall, and nice. Fern wants to know if they’re taking Juan’s car. [Ed. Note: Nooooo, Juan, don’t do it!] Juan says with everything that has happened to him, he shouldn’t risk having a dog confuse him with a tree (shouldn’t put himself in the position of getting in trouble?) They decide he’s really got nothing to lose, and do a little song and dance in unison. He tells Fern that Pastor’s boyfriend is waiting for them and they dance off to the car.

At the Cachón dinner table, a very angry Yadi yells at Marely to quit trying to defend Juan. Alirio sits there gesturing. Yadi gets up and yells at Marely not to be such a naïve fool. Marely get up and yells back for her to not get hysterical. She accuses her sister of not standing up with her, of not opening her mouth to tell the truth. Marely tells her to stop saying stupid stuff. Yadi yells an insult and Marely is impactada….and we are reminded that any resemblance to real life is pure coincidence.

Next Monday: Juan parties with his shirt open and the shark’s tooth necklace prominent, while Fern tries to keep a low profile and Pastor and Ivonne see a side of Juan they never realized existed.


Vocabulary for tonight: please be advised these are my loose interpretations and subject to change if a native speaker tells me I’ve got it wrong. ;-)

me devuelve el alma al cuerpo = my soul has returned to my body (Juan means “I’m relieved”)

traznochar/traznochado = stay up all night, never sleeping = never resting

protesto = I protest/complain, used here as I attest, affirm or swear I will

zopilote ratonero = mousy buzzard, an oxymoron to describe Pastor

sin saber a qué hora = never see it coming

ni nostalgia ni nada = no looking back, no regrets

todo se vale = anything goes, it’s all worth it (my loose interpretation)

one-way ticket (boleto de ida)

These are from Judy B. and Maricruz: Judy B. found them and Maricruz defined them. I didn’t catch all of them so cannot take credit!

Hacer la barba = to suck up or be very nice to your boss, as in “El nuevo empleado es un barbero, le hizo la barba al jefe" The new employee is a suck up, he was very nice to the boss”

Dar el ancho = being up to the challenge. “No se si des el ancho para dirigir la compañía”. I’m not sure if you are up to the challenge to be the new company director.

irse de espalda = It is an exaggeration and is used to denote surprise “Cuando le dijeron el precio del carro casi se va de espaldas” When he was told the price of the card he almost fell backwards.

el bocadero de cesar luis = we’re not sure about this one, Maricruz says she needs to see the whole sentence where it was used to understand the meaning. “It could be Cesar Luis’ big mouth.” I agree with Maricruz, since Ivonne was talking about CL sticking his nose in when she was setting Ana up to work with Monica.

Jeanne

Labels: Juan