Caray, Caray!

Maracuya thanks Augie for being so kind and understanding about this whole thing with Jimena and Oscar. Augie flirts and says she should take him instead. (Given half a chance I think the old guy would actually balk.) Mara is giggling at this when Rosario knocks at the door, ready to pick up Luisito. Mara opens the door for him and the two singing phenoms finally meet.

At the same time Sofia sits in her room at Casita de Reyes and sadly remembers her two traumatic assaults and the way she screamed and cowered in fear at Juan’s attempts to hold and comfort her. Out in the bakery Juan is literally sweating over--and into-- the next day’s rolls. As he toils (note the sweaty brow to the armpit) he remembers Sofia telling him how afraid she was at the thought of recurring traumatic memories that might make her unable to stand a man’s touch—his touch— and that she was certain it would cause her to lose him forever. Just then a despondent Oscar, followed by Franco, comes in to inform Juan that he’ll be leaving town with Mara the next day and says he doesn’t know when he might be returning. Juan is very negatively impactado.

Meanwhile, Jimena stands red-eyed and weeping in her darkened room staring out the balcony window and remembers that Mara told her she might lose Oscar to her forever if she refuses to forgive him.

Back at the bakery again Juan has had enough. He starts cursing and throwing bread dough everywhere, knocking trays onto the floor (which immediately gets me wondering if he’s going to pick them back up, blow them off and use them anyway). Juan has conveniently lost the patience Sofia supposedly has taught him. “Dammit all! Where did this come from? What do you mean you’re leaving??!! My guts are roiling as it is, and you come tell me you’re leaving?”

However, Juan gives in to the inevitable and says he can’t stop his brother, but Oscar needs to be sure about what he’s doing. Juan asks Oscar to think things over before he takes off with Mara. He doesn't want Oscar to be sorry afterwards, once he realizes he might have made a mistake, nor to suffer because of it. The family will support his decision and even if they can’t be there in the flesh with him, they’ll be with him in spirit. (Yada, yada.) Franco gives the Reyes' three muskecheer and it’s Reyes solidarity now and forever. Hmmp, hmmp, haw!
=============

At the cottage Rosario and Mara become… bosom buddies. Mara tells Rosario how the Bad Love was totally empty the whole time she was gone. Ofelia, at the same time, is in Rosario’s dressing room praying for guidance from the virgencita. Apparently she knows the whole truth about Rosario’s background and doesn’t want to steal away the joy Rosario felt upon learning she had a “family”.

Augie and Eva talk Rosario into leaving Luisito there at the cottage to stay with them because the cantina is not the kind of place to raise a little boy. (Do tell!)

Later that evening Juan is in tears as he tells Sofia about Oscar’s decision to leave town the next morning. Sofia struggles to put a comforting hand on his arm but grimaces at each failed attempt.

In their bedroom Oscar and Franco remember their childhood fun with their father as he taught them both to ride. Oscar says it’s hard for him to think back that far. Suddenly he remembers the tree and the swing. He tells Franco the tree with the swing had the same emblem carved on it as the one engraved on Juan’s old trunk.

The next morning Oscar says his good-byes to Quintina, Franco, Sofia and Juan. He gets hugs from Franco and Quintina. Sofia’s a lost cause because of her newly returned man-phobia and can’t hug him. Juan refuses to bear hug him good-bye and simply gives him a brusk “God bless you” before sitting on a bench in the corner of the living room to mope. Oscar, hurt by his rejection, heads out for the Tumbao to meet up with Mara.

While Eva feeds Luisito his breakfast she tells Augie that Jimena is still holed up in her room. Augie says he’s upset that both of his granddaughters are such cowards and are allowing love to get away.

Jimena sits alone in her bedroom clutching a little heart shaped pillow and crying that she’ll never see Oscar again.

Meanwhile, Pablito, who prefers Juan’s conchas to the nuns' oatmeal, finds the right moment and sneaks out of the orphanage.

Tall and Small Tweedle (Benito and Octavio) wish Mara future success. She encourages Small Tweedle to take a chance at happiness with Bruno. (Ay!) Octavio thinks it’s a bit too late for that. Oscar arrives with a drawstring pillowcase full of his personals and announces in front of the group that he’s ready to leave with her as she’d asked.

Back at the bakery Juan busies himself with the tasks at hand and wipes sweat from his brow onto his arm again. (Just how much of that sweat is now flavoring that concha dough I wonder?) Poor Juan should have just taken the day off; the first batch of conchas he takes out is scorched on the bottom and half raw on top. He sits down and begins to weep at his rotten luck. (Where’s that box of Kleenex I asked for?) First Pablito, then Sofia, now Oscar!

Sofia comes into the bakery to check on Juan and sees what a funk he’s in. She makes another effort to lay a comforting hand on his shoulder, but once again she cringes at the thought of touching a man, even her Juan. Juan notices her now and tries to discuss his feelings with her. Eventually the pain and misery he feels overcomes him. “First my sister, then Oscar, and you,” he weeps. He tells her he is afraid of losing her as he tries to hug her looking for a little comfort and consolation in her loving arms. She can only hiss at him about not touching her ever again. (This whole rejection thing is getting really old for my money. I’ve already gone through two hankies. I need another.) After realizing what she’s just done she begs for his forgiveness once again. He looks down at the floor and says through his tears that she has nothing to be forgiven for. Again she tries to make physical contact with him, but realizes she cannot and rushes out of the room. Juan stands there, alone in his wretchedness.
========

In the little cottage Augie lets Jimena cry on his shoulder over losing Oscar as Oscar is following on horseback through the little country back-roads behind Mara’s van. (Note: besides all modern means of communication, this little town has never heard of a quaint little invention called the horse trailer.) In the back seat of her van Mara is all grins and giggles at her little triumph with Oscar.

Sarita runs into the cottage looking for her sister. She tells Jimena that there is still time to stop Oscar leaving with Mara if she really loves him. As they race off who should come running into the cottage but Pablito, crying and begging Augie to hide him. Augie tries to comfort him.

We follow Mara’s little caravan procession as Jimena and Sarita race on horseback to catch up with Oscar. Jimena yells for him to stop. They halt the horses in front of the little entourage and Oscar gets off his horse. Jimena jumps off hers as Oscar begs for forgiveness. They hug and she says she’s already forgiven him. Her love is much greater than any show of disrespect. She asks him never to do this again and he says gratefully that he only wants to make her the happiest woman in the world. Mara has her driver take out Oscar’s drawstring bag and cries tearfully as she drives off leaving the two lovers to their fate. Sarita smiles secretly at this. Jimena and Oscar share a bittersweet kiss.

In the little casita Sofia finishes writing Juan a note of farewell, stands up and then looks around the little bedroom. She weeps as she remembers the passion she has shared with him there. “Adios, Juan. Adios. I am not going to make you suffer any longer.” (Of course she will. Who is she kidding?) “You don’t deserve it. Adios.” She grabs her own little pillowcase full o' personals and altruistically leaves Juan to wallow in his own sorrows. (What happened to ‘the kid needs to know its father and should grow up with his father in the same household’?) ......In short, she deserts the sorry SOB.

Back in the forest dark and dim, Jimena asks Oscar to promise he will never cheat on her again. It was terribly painful for her. Oscar says he realizes this and swears on the Reyes’ name not to, never ever to, again. Not ever! He wants to know why the sudden change of heart, and so Jimena explains the reason that she forgave him was that Mara spoke with her and admitted she’d set a trap for him; that then Sarita encouraged her to come after him. When Oscar tries to thank Sarita for what she's done for him, admitting they’ve never really connected well, the old Sneerita comes out. She snidely tells him what she did was for Jimena only. Their family had already suffered enough trouble and what with Sofia’s latest affliction, there is more than enough to go around. Besides, she’s already regretting it because on Sunday they're both getting married and will be miserable wretches.

Speaking of which, at Casa de Uribe, Tall Tweedle is suggesting that Small Tweedle go off with Bruno and leave him there to marry Sarita, manage the business, and send Small Tweedle his portion of the profits. Even though Octavio will miss out on the inheritance Benito will make sure he has all he needs in life. (Got to admit Tall Tweedle is really growing on me.)

Back at the cottage, through his tears, Pablito reminds Augie how he hid Augie and even fed him way back when. Aguie realizes that he owes Pablito. Augie gives in and decides they’ll devise a good strategy to confront whatever problems they face with the authorities. They’ll even include Mariachi (Yay!) in the deal.

Speaking of Mariachi, it’s turned into the dog days at the bakery. Franco complains that even Mariachi misses Pablito, so much so that he won’t touch his food. Juan says, yeah, the same way they already miss Oscar. (Dunno, maybe Mariachi just has more sense than to eat Reyes brand dog biscuits.) Franco says he is worried about Juan. He wonders what’s happening between him and Sofia. Juan says he can only be patient. He’ll stick by her. (Too bad she doesn’t have the same kind of dumb loyalty.) “What if even after all this she still rejects you?” asks Franco. Juan says his duty is to stand by Sofia. Franco pats Juan on the shoulder and tells him he admires his brother more every day and that Juan is the most conscientious man he knows. Juan simply says he’s got to go in to check on her now and see if she needs anything. Franco mentions he’ll be going to visit Pablito with Quintina in the meantime.

Juan goes into the living quarters looking for Sofia and finds a “Dear Juan” letter instead:

“Dear Juan, I can’t continue watching you suffer any longer. I’m sure that you love me, and I know that you’d wait the time needed for me to get well; but because of this very love that I hold for you I can no longer bear watching as the angst and pain consumes you because of me, because of my rejection. I’m never going to be happy now, but you, you really can be and therefore I’m freeing you from your loving promise. You are free. You are free to find your happiness [with somebody else].
Loving you,
Sofia”

So after telling Juan good-bye, have a happy life, and hope you will find love some other way and with somebody else, Sofia has returned to the convent. The Mother Superior asks if Sofia is sure of what she is doing. Sofia replies tearfully that she is doing it out of love for Juan. She cannot condemn him to live with her under these circumstances. Therefore, she’d rather let him go free so that he could be [truly] happy. The Mother Superior reminds her that love is between two people and says she oughtn't to have decided on her own to abandon him like that. However, she should feel free to use the tranquil grounds to think through what she feels would be best for her and Juan.

Said tranquility is short-lived as one of the sisters comes running over, yelling that Pablito has run away. Sofia seems to be impactada.

Inside the orphanage Quintina and Franco commiserate and worry if poor Juan will withstand this additional blow without uttering a complaint.

Juan returns home after a galloping whirl around the outskirts of town on Capricho to let off steam. He enters the house and goes to the little shrine in the corner of the living room to ask the virgencita for help. “I know I shouldn’t go looking for her. I have to wait for her to calm down, to wait for her soul to find the peace she seeks. I have to wait. I have to learn to wait. Even though I might be going around here totally miserable and with a broken heart, I have to respect her decisions. I can’t force her into anything. If she decides I have to leave her, I will do it. I love her, Virgencita, and I don’t want to watch her suffer, much less on my account. I love her, and because I love her I’m going to let her free.”

Speaking of…lovers… Bruno is about to drive off when Small Tweedle stops him. Octavio tells him he’s leaving with Bruno. Bruno gets out of the car and smiles. (Oh. Gawd. Tell me he isn’t going to express his man-love in this scene!) “I knew you would reconsider.” Octavio says they’ll be together, but he wants time to confront his aunt with the truth. (Whew! That was close.) He doesn’t want to remain a coward and promises to speak with her that day.

JImena and Oscar come to visit with Augie and give him the good news that they’re back together again. Pablito remains hidden from view. Augie is happy and says they’ve made the correct decision. “There are some battles that are won more through love than by hate,” he tells them. After a bit of chitchat Oscar starts to go. Augie asks him about Sofia. He says since this last assault she is the same. Jimena worries that Juan might desert her but Oscar says Juan would never do that to someone that he loves. Rosario walks in at that moment and the four exchange pleasantries about her unexpected return. Sneerita comes in at that point and is angry to see Rosario in her granddad’s cottage.

Back at the Uribe’s, Raqui is asking Octavio what excuse he’s got for not wanting to marry Jimena. He admits, while shooting puppy dog eyes at Bruno, that he is in love with another person. “Who? Who?” asks the unsuspecting Raquel. Bruno steps forward. Raquel still doesn’t get it. Octavio explains. “Bruno is the reason I don’t want to, nor can I, marry Jimena.” Wide-eyed impactada, Raqui asks why he never told her this before. She says she’s fine with the idea, but his uncle will definitely not be. Is he sure, she asks, that he wants to give up his inheritance? Octavio answers her that he’s sure and he places “Luhv” above all else. Raqui giggles to think that Gabriela Elizondo is going to surely kill her now.

Back inside the cottage things have heated up quite a bit. Augie reminds Sarita that Rosario is his guest and can come as often as she wants. Sneerita says she never thought he would take the side of her worst enemy. Rosario pleads with Sarita to realize she is not her enemy. She does not want them to always be on the outs with each other and has no intention of hurting her. Sneerita doesn’t buy it. “How should I treat you? Perhaps I should speak to you as if you were one of my sisters?” she says haughtily and then stomps out and back to the house.

Meanwhile, Gabi and Fernando --who has recently been getting some from Mama-- are talking together in Gabriela’s office. Nonefer, now Somefer, Nando says he’s got to go out and buy a few things for the ranch. He broadly hints that it would be a good excuse to get away from there and to be alone with each other. Gabi is too busy, but Somefer wants some nooky now. He suggests they could plan a little trip to the state capital and spend a few days alone together (Gag alert!) and he emphasizes this with lots of stolen kisses. She can take advantage of the time to take those tests she needs, he adds.

Gabi giggles girlishly and says she can’t because of the girls’ weddings next Sunday. Somefer Nando grabs her and pulls her back. He says he worries about her because of that arrhythmia thing Dr. Mentiroso Matasanos mentioned the other day. Gabi doesn’t want anybody to know about this and says she’ll get the tests done in her own time. Somefer cannot wait and the two of them become passionately entwined. They are interrupted and panicked when they hear Sarita and Jimena enter the house arguing over Sarita’s attitude towards Rosario. Sarita gets an accidental glimpse of her BIL and Mama standing a bit too close to each other and looking a bit uncomfortable. She notices Mama smoothing her hair and adjusting her necklace.

Back at the Reyes’ meanwhile, Franco and Quintina give Juan the bad news about Pablito running away from the orphanage. Juan is beside himself and asks just when life is going to draw the line on their hard luck. None of them knows where Pablito has gone nor even where to look. Just then the front door opens. They all look expectantly over at the hallway entrance as Sofia returns with her pillowcase. She smiles sweetly over at Juan. Juan is overjoyed to see her back and standing there. He smiles broadly back.

Labels: Fuego

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 3:42 PM 64 comments

Rehash: We see Mili and Al in the hallway outside his room where Flor languishes, and Mili is blaming herself. Al hugs her to comfort her and guess what, Marisela walks into the hall right then. She tells Al that this is why Flor slashed herself. Everything is his fault! Mili runs off. Mari tells Al that Flor is not alone. He says he doesn’t owe her any explanations, but he will do everything to make sure Flor is okay.

New hash: Mari enters the darkened Room of Crushed Dreams where Flor is asleep, recovering from the loss of less blood than you get taken for a blood test. Mari swears that she won’t let that monster destroy her sister’s life.

Karla sneaks into the kitchen at night and dials up Fernando, who is sitting astride his shiny motorcycle, waiting for her call. He tells her too bad she’s getting married tomorrow because girls like her aren’t thick upon the ground and he misses her. Karla flutters. He says how great she called exactly at the appointed hour and can she come out and play? Karla says it’s dangerous, and also it’s late for going out. But she says okay, when can you come get me? I’m here out front, he says. Karla is stoked, says she’ll go change and be right there.

In the foyer, Al is standing about like Hamlet, looking tragic, tears standing in his eyes. Nestor says you couldn’t help what happened. Luci agrees. All says leave me alone, you hypocrites. Nestor takes it patiently, saying well we’re all tense. He goes on upstairs. Mat and Connie are there too. Luci leans over Connie where he is sitting on the couch and softly says she needs to talk to him later in the study. She touches his ear and massages his shoulder - a clarinet is playful in the background. Luci goes upstairs.

Oh! Andrea is there too. She leaps over to the couch and asks Connie what Luci said. Look out, says Connie, you look like a suicide attempter yourself. Andrea curses Luci, then gets seductive and says let’s go up to bed. I’ll be up in a bit, he says smiling and rumbling.

By now Al’s tears have reached his chin. Andrea pauses on her way to the staircase and says I’m glad your wife is better. Al just keeps staring straight ahead.

Connie stops at Al too and says and you call ME an assassin? Don’t keep putting on airs that you are a better person than me. You are trash and you know it. Connie walks over to Mat who has been sitting there feeling awkward and tells him, please feel at home. You’re a great guy! If Al had been like you I would’ve taken him on like a son. Al in the background looks even more pained. Connie leaves.

Mat is standing, briefcase in hand, uncomfortable, and Al is still standing glued to the spot by the stairs. Mari comes down and tells Mat that she’s going to stay with Flor, she doesn’t want to leave her alone. In the background, Al says don’t worry on my account, I can sleep here on the couch. Mari can’t be bothered to even acknowledge that he has spoken. She goes upstairs.

Mat says to Al, well, I’m going now. Please greet Flor for me when she wakes up. He walks out. Al looks like he’s going to sob, but instead he runs upstairs. Oops, Mat isn’t gone, he’s lurking behind a wall.

Lina and Gloria are in twin beds (what happened to the bunks?) chatting when Karla comes in dressed to go out. They ask if those are her new jammies. Karla scoffs and says she’s going out with friends for her stag party. The girls say you don’t have any friends. I have tons of them, retorts Karla.

Mat sneaks into Connie study and plants a manila envelope in the desk drawer. Uh oh! Somebody coming! He dives under the desk, which is spindly-legged and doesn’t provide much cover. Connie and Luci come in and start telling the other how unscrupulous they are, and they laugh and flop on the couch, necking big time.

Karla is happily getting on the motorcycle with Fernando.

Vale is in her little Taco Naco hat at the Rodeo food bar (we see Morgan slinging hash in the background) and she’s talking to Al on her cell. She tells him to get some rest, as he seems really off. She says she knows Mili is having a hard time and that she’ll talk to her.

Vale tells Morgan that Flor seems to be in the clear now, but she’s really worried about Al. Morgan says no wonder, what a shock for him. Vale says when she’s pregnant with Morgan’s little Morgancito, she’s going to be very careful and not do anything to harm the child. Morgan says he can’t wait to have a miniature Vale in his arms. They decide they have to wait until they’re married because that’s the right thing to do. They cuddle endearingly.

Chamuco comes up and tells Vale to go fix up something for him. She goes off and Morgan is annoyed Chamuco is giving food orders to Vale. Chamuco says he has to talk with him – he needs a job because well, Gloria may be pregnant. Morgan says Que? He remembers Gloria has felt urpy. He tells Chamuco that Horacio will kill him. Just then Horacio comes up in his Taco Naco hat and razzes them about standing around talking.

Braulio is really styling as he turns out all the lights downstairs. He twirls and his coattails fly. Nestor comes up and asks if he’s seen Luci in the kitchen. Luci told him she was going to get an aspirin, but she’s taken awfully long about it. Braulio says he was just in the kitchen and no Luci. Now here comes Andrea in her slinky bathrobe. Has Braulio seem Connie? He went for an aspirin and now where is he? Braulio says he doesn’t know. Andrea says she’ll check in the study and Braulio says no!

Nestor and Andrea look at him oddly. Braulio says I mean no, they are not in the studio. They? says Nestor. Andrea just asked about Connie. Braulio says Connie is not there nor Luci either. What are you trying to say, Braulio? asks Andrea. Nothing, says Braulio, just that they’re not in the studio. Nestor says well, we’ll go find out. He and Andrea head off, and Braulio follows, his arms flailing.

Al knocks at Mili’s door. He says he saw the light on. Where is Hugo? Mili says he’s in his studio painting like very night. He never comes to bed with her. Al lights up and walks over to her bed. Mili gets out of bed and tells him that divorcing Flor will make Flor miserable. Al says he’s miserable and Flor would never be happy with him that way, and what’s more, Hugo will never be happy as he waits for Mili to actually fall in love with him.

He tells Mili that he won’t mention divorce until the baby comes. He says it’s not good for him or for Flor the way things are now. Al says he doesn’t want to end up like his mother or his father, resigned to a life without love.

He tells her that he has a suspicion about Connie and he doesn’t know whether to say something or keep quiet: He thinks Connie had Flor’s daddy killed, which would mean that Mili’s daddy is an assassin. No puede ser! says Mili.

Al explains that right before Domingo was killed, he had told Connie he was going to wipe out his business. Al and Damien heard with their own ears Connie furiously telling Domingo that he would destroy him.

Mili says no, Connie is a liar and a coward, but not an assassin. Al says I want to be mistaken. Because even though I’m not his real son, I still love him despite his always pushing me away. I wanted to be important to him, but I never managed to be. Mili says she understands exactly because even though Connie won’t say he’s her father, and even though she hated her father for abandoning her mother and her, still she has come to love Connie.

Don’t say anything, says Mili. Let’s ask Padre Manuel. She leans against him for comfort and naturally in walks Hugo. Mili says if I told you this is just a friendship hug, would you believe me?

Andrea and Lestor are striding quickly through the mansion toward the study, but an impressively agile Braulio is springing over furniture to get there first. He blocks the study door and says loudly that no one is in there. Nestor threatens to slug him, so Braulio steps aside. The door is locked! Nestor demands the key. It’s a ring of keys and Andrea is trying them all.

In the study, Luci is frantically trying to get her necklace on over her head and find her shoes. Connie is quickly tying his tie. Luci says Nestor will be furious. Connie says Andrea will kill me. Luci says I’ll kill her before she can. Connie seems to admire that.

Mat springs from under the desk and announces he can save them both. They are astonished, but he rushes to a chair and opens his briefcase. They will look like they are in a meeting. Nestor and Andrea burst in, demanding to know what’s up and why are they locked in? Mat says they were discussing very private points about the divorce. Nestor and Andrea are abashed and ask for forgiveness.

Mat says he has one more point to discuss with Connie. Luci tells Nestor that she is very sorry to think he doesn’t trust her. They leave. Andrea says she’ll see Connie in a little bit. Braulio gives Connie and exaggerated goodnight. Everyone is gone and Connie pops his eyebrows at Mat – well? What were you doing hidden under my desk?

Al is telling Hugo that they were just talking. Hugo tells him to get out.

Hugo says why did you let him into our room so late? Mili fakes that she didn’t realize it was late. She tells him not to be so jealous. She says Al is important to her and she intends to keep him as a good friend, and she will talk to him whenever she wants, not when Hugo gives permission. She says I am your wife, but you didn’t buy me. Hugo says I see. He’s more important than me, than our marriage. If only Hugo read advice columns! He’d be able to fling around the term “emotional infidelity.”

Mat tells Connie that since Mari was going to spend the night with her sister, he came in looking for a book. Yes, that’s it! A book! And then Connie and Luci came in and started kissing and he assumed it would be less embarrassing for them if they didn’t know he was there, so he hid. And then they got all passionate… Connie says not a word to anyone, understand? Of course, says Mat, I’ll see you tomorrow morning early. Con permiso. He runs out like a girl.

Braulio comes in like a girl. He asks if there will be anything else. Connie says no. Braulio starts to leave but then says I never thought you’d like a trio. Connie looks puzzled, then angry. Stupid, he says and leaves. Trio, says Braulio holding up four gloved fingers and waggling them.

It’s the morning of Damien’s wedding day and Braulio is straightening the gloomy landscape that is back in its spot which had been usurped by the Mili/Mama painting. Mili in a nice yellow dress walks in and regards it gloomily. Nestor comes up and says I’m sorry about your painting, Luci does crazy stuff when she’s been drinking. Mili says she drinks up every bottle in the house. Nestor says he doesn’t agree with everything she does, but she’s not a bad person, just lost. Try to understand her and pardon her.

Mili says you do the understanding. You live in this house with a drunk who makes my life miserable. Nestor says do you have a little time? I’d like to explain something. They sit and he says you and Al are close and when I talk to you, I feel like I’m getting closer to him. He’s pushing me away and I accept that, but I’m not giving up. Please be my friend, I want to know Al better through you. Mili is touched. She tells him that the photos of her mother are her greatest treasure and invites him up to see them.

Flor is in bed, face smeared with glycerin tears, contemplating her bandaged wrists. Mari comforts her. Flor says she so much regrets what she did, how impulsive and stupid she was. Mari strokes her hair and tells her that she isn’t alone and Mari will take care of her. Mari says Flor and the coming baby are all the family she has left. And if Flor does herself in, then Mari has no one. Flor reassures her that she won’t do anything stupid.

Flor asks where Al is and Mari says forget him. Pack up and I’ll take you home to the apartment. Flor says no. Al is the man she loves and her place is there with him. Just then Al comes in. Flor smiles bravely. He asks kindly how she is and Flor asks Mari to leave. Mari rolls her eyes and warns Al to treat Flor right. She leaves.

Al puts his arms around Flor and she weeps and begs forgiveness. He says nothing to forgive. Flor says it’s just when he asked for divorce she thought for a moment she’d rather be dead. Al says don’t worry, I won’t leave you or the child. Huh?

Damien is getting into his tuxedo and Hugo is helping. Hugo is surprised that Damien is taking his upcoming nuptials so well. Damien says he’s okay with it. Hugo says he doesn’t think Karla is the right person, not because she’s a servant but because he doesn’t think Karla truly loves his father. She might be untrustworthy. Like Mili? asks Damien. Have you talked to her about you not voting her shares at the company?

Hugo says no, I’ve been waiting for the right moment. Damien says are you part of the problem, or part of the solution? You have to protect your marriage and your inheritance.

Nestor and Mili are sitting on the couch in her brightly colored bedroom looking at photos. Nestor says Mili has inherited the beauty, openness and good heart that he sees in her mother in the pictures. Nestor says he can’t understand why she and Al didn’t stay together, they would make such a lovely couple. Mili doesn’t want to talk about it. Nestor says Al is a hard worker, honest, noble and he has a huge heart, just like her. Mili says she’ll help Nestor and get Al to pardon him.

Hugo comes for Mili and Nestor says he’ll put the photos away. Hugo and Mile leave and Nestor looks fondly at all the photos in her box. Oops, he finds the taped-together one of Mili’s ma with Connie. No puede ser!

People are gathering outside the church. Socorro is scared Damien won’t show up. Horacio prays he does. And here comes the groom! Meantime, the girls are wondering where Karla is. She went out last night late. Chamuco asks Gloria about her period and she says not in front of the house of God, it’s some kind of sin. Chamuco says he needs to know if she is, because if she is, they’ll get married. Gloria is thrilled that it could be so soon.

Vale and Morgan wish it were their wedding but they will stick to their plan and not look like they’re together.

Bobby is telling Lina she pretty much blew him off. She doesn’t want him to think that. So he mentions about her needing more time. She runs over to Vale who tells her men think girls are easy if they agree too quickly. Lina is worried because she really wants to go with Bobby. She goes back to him and tells him she needs to think a little more. Bobby says why don’t you be honest with me? If you don’t want to be my girlfriend, just say so. He walks off.

Luci and Nestor, Connie and Andrea show up. Did they share a ride? Luci insults Mili’s taste in clothes and Nestor tells her to stop. Mili tells Connie he looks good, but what about his conscience? She says he can go to confession for all his sins since they’re at the church. Connie looks puzzled.

Oh wow! Karla’s still in bed with Fernando. He tells her she better hurry, but she says Damien can wait after all he’s made her wait. Fernando says he never believed in love at first sight before. She says she can tell by his kisses and she smooches him some more. He surreptitiously looks at his watch.

In front of the church, Nestor is asking the padre if he can talk to him. Al comes up and doesn’t even acknowledge Nestor’s presence and asks the padre if Mili and he can talk to him. The little padre says seems like everyone wants to talk to him, but make it after the service, for heaven’s sake.

Socorro tells Mili she’s worried about Gloria and it takes a while for Mili to get the drift. Mili points out that you can’t get pregnant without doing a certain thing. Socorro says yeah, well, they’ve done it. Mili is super impactada.

People are wondering where the bride is. Damien paces a bit. He says she’s probably still at the beauty salon. And here she is, running up. She has on her bridal gown and has a spray of flowers, but her hair is loose. She tells a story about not being able to get a taxi. Off she and Damien go arm in arm.

Mili calls Gloria a traitor for not keeping their pact about telling about their first time. Lina did, Mili reminds her. Gloria says she didn’t want to say because of how it was going with Hugo. Mili hadn’t had her first time and Gloria felt bad about it. Gloria says how lovely it was and Mili looks sad. Mili asks if she’s pregnant and Gloria says she doesn’t know, she never keeps track of her periods, but she thinks she might be two weeks late. Mili is excited and says she’s going to be an aunt. Sor Cachete comes and herds the girls into the church.

The couple is kneeling at the altar. We see various other couples: Flor clutching Al’s arm as he sits next to Mili, Connie and Luci making eyes, Vale and Morgan wanting to kiss, Lina smiling encouragingly at Bobby who smiles back. Damien at the altar smiles and Karla is smiling too and nodding her head with each line of the wedding ceremony as if she’d written it herself.

Stop me if you’ve heard this one: the padre comes to the part about if anyone yadda yadda speak now or forever hold your peace. A voice from the back of the church says “Yo!” Heads turn. It’s not Silvester Stalone, it’s Fernando striding down the aisle in what I swear looks like a pink shirt. Freeze frame.

Avances: Padre Manuel tells Nestor that Connie is Mili’s true father and that Luci let Al and Mili believe that they were brother and sister. Mili and Hugo have words.

Labels: guapos

Eva thanks Crabbi for letting the girls go because they were ready to do whatever; including leaving the house and Crabbi would be left alone. Crabbi turns to the camera and tells herself ha, she’s not alone, she has that wonderful hunk of an evil man Feo.

Sofi is sorry to treat Juan this way, but she can’t help it, so forgive her. He says he’s not complaining about it. Juan says he loves Sofi and no one will destroy that. Quinti interrupts that girls are here to see Sofi, she tells him that she thinks they probably want to chat alone. Duh, big guy....that means you, scoot. The girls run in and hug Sof.

Don Auggie is chatting with Aragon about the contract. He’s satisfied and has no reason to distrust him and says he’ll sign with pleasure. Just then Eva barges in and has something delicate to tell him.

Feo is FINALLY handing over the money, with interest no less, to the goons who roughed him up. Goon absolves his conscience for any bad deeds by saying none of this would have happened if he had paid them right away. He thinks to himself that he used Crabbi’s money for this so now he needs to figure out what to do about the hacienda.

Sofi is crying to her sisters, why and woe’s me that this happened again, and now she’s even rejecting Juan, and she doesn’t want to be that person again. Abuelo shows up to make the crying circle complete.

Feo tells himself that he needs to be nicer to Rosi if she is indeed the daughter of Bernardo, because then she too would be an heir to the fortune.

Juan is trashing stuff in his own house when Pad Tad comes in yelling for him. Pad picked a fine time to remind Juan of divine justice. Juan is not being a believer just now and wants to reap justice with his own hands. To prove he’s not misguided we see Pade Tad flashing back to Feo confessing he was the rapist of Sofi. Tad says you get nothing by lowering yourself to his level. You are stronger and more dignified than he is. With that he says he must leave to see the bishop who has asked to talk to him. He doesn’t know why.

Crabbi is bring flowers to Bernardo and rubbing it in his entombed face that she has a new piece of meat, and oh, he’s hotter than you ever were. He loves me and I love him back. Cardinal rule of novelas is that if you say this too many times something doomful comes of it. We're on time two now, folks.

Armando is thrilled that Feo finally paid up but wants to know how he got the money. Feo says none of your business and be careful what you question or someone might cut out your tongue. He also mentions that Rosi is on her way back.

Don Au is consoling his darlings and says his generals will all band together to hunt down the rapists. He tells her not to take him the wrong way; he’s only trying to distract her. He tells her that she needs to fight hard against this feeling that makes her reject Juan because he’s an all around good chap. She knows that but this is stronger than she is and she’s afraid she’ll lose him. Sara, surprisingly encouraging says no; you are united for life and won’t lose him.

Gabi continues telling the stone of Bernardo that Sofi deserved what she got. I would love it if he would pop out of there and scare the caca out of her. That would be so great. But alas....

Pad Tad is getting a tongue lashing from the bishop, our beloved Perafan, for his recent behavior, that Crabbi’s accusations are very serious. Tad says it might sound strange, but I have a very good reason for what I’ve done, and I can’t reveal due to confession. Bishop criticizes him for not counseling and says he is going to have to rob him of his parish and send him elsewhere.

At the Tumbao, Bruno gives Maracuya her final payment. He’s clearly upset, and can’t resist telling her that she has made many hurt by her latest "trick." He asks if she is happy of what she’s done. Just then Oscar shows up and wants to talk to her alone.

The girls are worrying about how sad Sofia is. Abue worries if Juan will give up on her but Eva says no way. He then turns his attention to the girls and asks if they are really going to marry that pair of obnoxious pests. (Mequetrefes) they recite that they have no choice. He suggests they jump a boat for the South Seas and meet some explorers or something. Jime says there’s no way out. Sara surprisingly says she could have a way out if she pardons Oscar. Jime says she’d be a nun first.

Oscar tells Mara he’s not there to complain, but now he’s got nothing to lose so he’ll go with her.


Feo, who now has Crabbi’s money puts it in a safe and does the obligatory smelling of it. Let’s see if he stoups her again, now that he's got it. He also pulls out the gold chain, I think this was Libia’s and he says his life got better they day he got rid of that pipsqueak.


At school Pablito is getting sad because no one came to see him. The nun assures him something must have come up. Just then it becomes "happy" hour and Quinti shows up as a clown banging her drum and blowing her whistle. She makes them march for being bad. She sends them back to their places and announces the nicest dog, Mariachi. Poor thins is also dressed up. Pablo is really happy though. But wait this circus would of course not be complete with the non-emotive clown Franco. He actually can make nice faces when he’s singing. Amazing what he can do with the little tin horn he’s playing. Sounds like a studio mixed full musical group (wink) and he "plays" his famous song "Mi Piquito de Oro:

Yo tengo un amorcito que la quiero mas que a mi vida..
Por ella me muero y sabe bien que es mi consentida...
A ella le digo con cariño mi Piquito de Oro
Le gusta que la bese y que le diga mi lindo tesoro...
Hay viene mi Piquito de Oro
Hay viene mi a darme sus amores
Hay viene mi Piquito de Oro
Hay viene mi lindo tesoro...
Yo tengo un amorcito que la quiero mas que a mi vida..
Por ella me muero y sabe bien que es mi consentida...
A ella le digo con carino mi Piquito de
gusta que la bese y que le diga mi lindo tesoro...
Hay viene mi Piquito de Oro
Hay viene mi a darme sus amores
Hay viene mi Piquito de Oro
Hay viene mi lindo tesoro...

I always liked this song, and Pablo sounds good singing it.

In another lugar, Rosi is saying good bye to her tour and to the galan Bobby who reminds her he will always be there if she needs him. Hmmm..

Back at the orfanato, the clowns have to go sadly, but they promise they’ll be back. Franco, sad at leaving the mini-Reyes, says yeah, clowns make everyone laugh, but who makes them laugh when they cry. He cries and Quinti hugs him. Please, you’ll see the kid tomorrow, and you will bust him out soon, so get a grip man. Besides your clown face is running. Anyway....


The forlorn lovers Bruno and Octavio say their good-byes over pink champagne. Nice touch with the pink. Bruno toasts to this goodbye, but I don’t think Octavio expected that. Bruno says he doesn’t want to be there when he gets married. He thanks him for all these years of happiness, but it’s goodbye, and wants him to be happy. Octavio looks impactado. What, you thought you could have both Octi? I say, good man Bruno.

Jime cries over her dress this time with gigantic green earrings that she’s going to marry Octi and both will be very UNhappy.

Jimena wonders what G-Pa wanted her so badly for. He smirks and points behind him. Guess who comes out of the shadows, but Madame Maracuya complete with scary hair and nails.
Sofi is whining again about how this feeling is greater than she is. He tells her not to sweat it, because she’s the one he loves and he’s not going anywhere. Come one, we all know she will snap out of it one of these days, how could she not with him running around half naked all the time.

Feo shows up at the Panaderia and wants to know if there is anything he can do for Sofi. Face de muy impactado of Juan.

Juan says if it was up to him, he’d say leave, but he’ll let Sofi decide. She tells thanks but no thanks, she’s already with the man she loves, so he can go now. He bids adios.

Sofi confirms that she still loves Juan despite everything. He bumps into her accidentally and she gets unruly. Then she feels bad because she can’t control her feelings like this. He asks her if this affliction is stronger than their love. He promises he knows how to be patient and he’s fine with just looking at her.

Back at the cabana G-Pa rolls away. Jime says you have done enough but Mara wants to be honest with her and tell her something that she can take how she wishes. Jime tries to run off but Mara comes at her with the "don’t be a spoiled brat already and just listen to me for Gosh sakes."

Back at the Bad love bar Feo is quite the manly man whipping the chairs in his frustration over Juan. He can’t believe his plan didn’t work. It was foolproof because Gomez said so. HA!! Good old Gomez, I'll ask him next time I want something to work out.

Armando reminds him things don’t always turn out the way we want. Hey weren’t you warned to watch your mouth? I’m thinking this guy is close to being minus a tongue.

Juan stuffs more pan dulces down Sofi’s face. He says he’ll be outside if she needs anything, however complicated. He goes out but comes back again thinking she called. She didn’t. But she smiles anyway. Yeah, she’ll be jumpin’ his bones again in no time.

Pad Tad is meeting with Crabbi and tells her ok fine, you think you got me by doing this, and I might be going away, but you know what, he will continue to defend her daughters and one day she will appreciate it. She says she not bad, he is, because how could he say that Feo was the rapist of Sofi? Padre is muy impactado of course.

Pad wonders who told her that. She tells him Feo himself. Padre hopes he told her everything. She counters that she trusts Feo completely and Tad is only saying that to upset her.

Rosario returns and Feo tells her how great it is to see her and he hopes things went well and how missed she was by her public and he tells her to rest that he’ll be back later. They are amazed at his change, and indeed upset by it.

G-Pa listens in on a horn (yes, like a bull horn, a real one) as Maracuya tells Jime that Oscar fell into the trick that she set for him, and Jime has to forgive him. Jime says he could have resisted. Mara says ha, you really don’t know men, do you, how this is stuff is a game to them to make themselves feel manly. She tells her to stop being a capricious young girl. Mara insists Oscar is not to blame.

Oscar is pacing and remembers that he told Mara he would go with her.

Mara says if she doesn’t forgive Oscar, he will come with her when she leaves town and Jime will lose him. Mara’s pretty sure of her ability to hold onto this guy, isn’t she?

Oscar tells Franco of his departure plans.

Jime says she’ll think about it but doubts she can forgive. Mara tells Jime not to be stubborn and forgive him if she wants to be happy.

G-Pa rolls in and congratulates Mara for her speech and tells her she has earned his respect. He awards her with the medal of the woman judicial and clearheaded. Oh please, if she was so valiant she wouldn’t have tricked him in the first place. She tells him she’s not a bad chick, just maybe capricious like Jime.

G-Pa says that one easy solution is for her to take him with her instead. She would love to, he’s been wonderful with her. There is a knock on the door. Mara gets it for him. It’s Rosario and it looks like a battle of the boobs may be nearing.

Sofi remembers her horror in the woods both times.

Juan in the other room remembers when Sofi first told him about what happened to her and that she feels he is the one to touch her again after all this time.

Oscar tells Juan he’s leaving the pueblo for good tomorrow. And that’s where we end.

Labels: Fuego

I was going to put Alonso and Lorena's engagement in the title but ye gods...those kisses were so tepid, I can't imagine this romance ever being consummated. On the other hand, the Mexican cooking prof/chef looks yummy and has that smoulder thing going on that we all like...right? Maybe HE can find Lorena's pilot light.

Anyway, back to the business at hand. Sara's naco family (her view) is there to take pictures. And how come Julian can afford a digital camera?! Those things are super expensive, believe me! Zully is nostalgic, thinking how she would have loved to go to a school like this if only her parents had had the money. Together she and Omar vow to pay for anything Sara needs here, to make up for all she...and they...have missed.

And" missing" is the theme of the day at Paula's house. Greta is laughing about their excellent adventure sneaking into the apartment and evading detection; but Paula is weeping, remembering how she loved and supported Dario unconditionally and then he threw her away like an old rag (viejo trapo).

We have that nice scene where Lorena discovers the HUGE floral arrangement (complete with teddy bear) that Alonso sent her and then...lo and behold, there he is at the window, emoting like mad. She's ready to run out and thank him but nasty Sara grabs her arm and says "no time, class is about to start". (By the way, for you Botox watchers, I scrutinized his forehead carefully all throughout the show...nothing moved. It's either Botox or he's developed the rest of his muscles to such an extent that the forehead is just plain exhausted.)

The first order of business is to elect a group representative to handle communications between staff and student. Who wants to apply.?..both Lorena and Sara. Surprise! Sara gives her smarmy little speech about caring about relationships etc. Then Lorena speaks about growing up in an orphanage with so many children, working in the kitchen and discovering her love of cooking, adding that she's patient, she knows how to listen and she'd love to work with them. Smiling faces all around. Then she adds sweetly, but if you elect Sara, that's great too 'cause she's my best friend. Sara looks like she's about to hurl, and of course, votes for herself.

Things aren't going well for Ickturo...turns out the Chinese company to which he gave all his money for the toy orders is a phantom operation and he's been had big-time. He's yelling at his secretary and saying "Are you telling me I'm an imbecile!?" She stutters that of course, no, she would never insult him like that. But hey, if the shoe fits!.....

Sara and Lorena leave the first class after Lorena is elected class representative, and even our dense little Lorena can tell Sara is pissed. Sara protests that she's not mad, she used to losing to Lorena. I've never been able to beat you, even the nuns loved you better. Lorena doesn't believe it....and besides, Sara is SO LUCKY....She has her family while Lorena has nobody. (Sorry Alonso). No sermons, snaps Sara. Besides I can't even enjoy them, they're forever fighting with my grandmother.

Said family is pretty happy at the moment. Omar has gotten his bank loan and after paying off the shop and the cars he intends to leave auto mechanics and seek work more in line with his profession. (And I've forgotten what that is.....anybody?) He wants to make his kids proud. Zully is all for that.

And our sweet Lorena is already making friends with the student who noticed her bouquet. She's a second-year student but she flunked Mexican Cooking so she'll be taking it again with Lorena. The teacher is a neurotic ogre...good-looking but mean as the devil. And if you come to class without your supply of knives you're done for!

Brief scene with Hortensia and Jaime but I'll merge two of them. She's noting that she suspended Jacqueline for a week; he's moaning about the past, wondering how his mother could do anything as awful as making off with Omar's baby. She's totally unrepentant and says she'd do the same today after seeing that revolting woman (Zulema). Jaime pleads that he only went along with it to try and gain her approval. He gets more sneers and the announcement that she can't stand his weakness.

Now to our gruesome twosome, Barbara and Arturo. She's shrieking at him for losing all that money. He doesn't like her attitude. Well, how can she be sympathetic with all that SHE'S going through. This woman is such a flaming, totally useless narcissist, she almost makes Sara look lovable. At least Sara has a job and can handle a computer.

Jaime storms out of the office after the scene with his mother and runs into Maruja who looks worried about him.

Back to happier people. Zulema is busily writing up catering orders and is so intent at first she doesn't notice that Vasco is there looking oh-so-fine. The suit and the ponytail are excellent in my opinion. Diana emerges from the bedroom looking equally hot and they both admire each other. Zulema notes that Vasco has a gleam in his eye in addition to the smooth outfit...Could it be love?

Hmm...next scene, not so happy. Valeria has come across her newspaper of house ads in her folder at work and is morosely ripping it to shreds. Dr. Alonso comes in and tries to pump her up. Never throw your dreams in the trash! Valeria sighs and says maybe later. Then Lorena arrives clutching her huge teddy bear floral arrangement. They do the googly-eyed bit. She looks sweet. He looks dazed and confused. (Very smooth forehead though).

Sara shows up at Chalo's, throws some magazines on the bed for his entertainment and gets chided for leaving him all alone. Hey, she's busy! He should get Lorena over here doing her Good Samaritain thing.

Back to our googly-eyed couple. Now they're murmuring sweet nothings...You're beautiful. You're handsome. I'll never doubt you again. (ANVIL ALERT)

A brief scene of Paula quietly crying (definitely preferable to her louder carrying on). Bettina wants to know if she found her keys...she did. Thank goodness, Dad would kill her if she lost them.

And for Dad, hey, things aren't going well in the Love Nest. We have a nice ceiling shot of his tatooed arm and muscular back (preferable to that jiggling chest of last night) but what's happened to his passionate lover? She's gone cold, worrying about the wedding plans, the honeymoon and whether or not Hortensia will use her time off as an excuse to fire her. And besides, that Thailand honeymoon!!...what's that about?! That's where he was going to go with that crazy ex-wife of his.

Well, he's always wanted to go there. And even though Paula was frugal and careful, they could never get enough money together to go. Frugal and careful!!!! and what am I?!!! a spendthrift!?
Dario does his manly usual...leaves the room saying he'll be back when she's over her snit.

Our next loving couple, Rossy and Julian, are having that what's-wrong-with-my-life talk. Julian is blaming himself for everything, the shop burning down, the ruined mayonnaise, the loss of clients. He's more "salado que un bacalao" (literally more salty than codfish, but meaning "totally jinxed") So what am I, chopped liver, snaps Rossy. No, no, you're the only good thing in my life, Julian quickly amends.

Sara's still working on Chalo, giving him a little peck..he wants a better kiss and gets it, wants more and doesn't get it...and she sets him up to call Lorena. Tell her you're doing badly and need her, she wheedles, stroking his thigh. (Don't you think that's pretty darn distracting?) But Chalo dutifully calls Lorena. Alas, her cell phone is out of network. Darn! She must be with Alonso!

And she is. They're in the car and she wants to go back to the park where they first kissed. More googly eyes and so-in-love-nonsense talk. C'mon, you're heard it all, you've said it yourself. I don't need to go into it do I? And then, playful child at heart that she is, Lorena wants to go on the slides. (Actually there's some Freudian symbolism here but I don't think I'll press the issue). They play happily and then he just can't wait any longer. He whips out.....(what did you think I was going to say?) the engagement ring, silly! " Don't tell me I'm going too fast, I want to start a family with you," he gasps. She accepts, the ring fits perfectly, the music swells to a crescendo but the kisses....honest to God, they're duds....tepid, tepid, tepid.

Okay, maybe those kisses are tepid 'cause Lorena's really scared. It's so important to be a wife and mother...but scary. She's lacked so much in her life, but hey...there are blessings too...and you Alonso are the greatest of these. More lovey-dovey nonsense and then Alonso's big scene...he gets to yell "Te amo te amo TE AMO" in full Gaviota style. There could have been some more tepid kisses after this, but honestly, I don't remember. Let's just say that all their kisses were forgettable.

Julian is still lamenting his lack of luck. He's so bad he scares black cats! When Rossy realizes she can't persuade him out of his funk with words, she whacks him a good one upside the head. Gotta love this girl.

Cranky old Sara is getting ready for bed in her naco house when naco mom comes bursting in and startles her. She wants to give her the raggedy old cooking book Omar gave her when they got married. Sara sniffs that she can tell it's been well-used, it's full of oil stains. Zulema, oblivious to the sneer, says it will come in handy for her courses. Not so. Sara is studying administration and finance. Well, then, it will be good for when you cook for your husband. This goes over like a lead balloon.

Things are going better at Alonso's house. He tells Dad he and Lorena are getting married. Dad proposes a toast with tequila, says all kind of nice things about his son, and then discreetly gets out of the way, saying he's going to visit a friend. Love's labor lost 'cause Lorena's not about to let things get out of hand with Alonso....that ring isn't a marriage license buddy! She pulls back after a few more tepid kisses, saying things are going too fast. Showing remarkable restraint, Alonso puts on some music and starts to dance with her. Even then, she pulls back a little.

We switch to Sara who's grumpily getting into bed, wondering how much longer she'll have to live in this pigsty.

Hmmm....back to our loving couple. Now they're at the window, staring at the rain streaming down the window, oh so symbolic of the first day they met and the instant and forever love they felt for each other. Alonso is getting steamed up again. Your gaze, your smile, your fragrance, he murmurs....I want to love you every night, I desire you so much.

No, no, no....we can't, Lorena gulps. Your dad might come back. My friend Rossy and Julian were caught by her mom. Whew...she sure knows how to make a guy feel loved, doesn't she?

Back at Mama Maruja's, it's just Rossy and mom now, settling down to watch a game snow called Night of Geniuses. One of the next categories is going to be soccer. And who knows more about soccer but our Julian? If only they could build up his self-esteem, maybe he could go on the show and win a lot of money.

From low self-esteem to more of same. Arturo is in his jammies, drinking and wondering how to get out of his latest disaster. Valeria comes out and makes the mistake of asking how business is going. Snarls. Bleachedblondeharlotmom emerges, chides Valeria for not giving hubby a moment's peace and then sits down, pours him another drink and says "poor baby, you're probably missing your honey, right?"

And Paula is missing the happy days of her past. But discreetly. She's really not annoying in this episode. She's looking at her wedding pictures and Bettina notices how pretty mom was, and Dad, handsome in the suit bought with the money Paula got at her bachelorette party. We didn't have a penny, Mama confides, but we were happy because we had each other.

Lorena and Alonso are now chastely looking at family pictures as well. (This guy has the patience of a saint!) She's admiring one of him at age 4 and that leads to dreams of having children together. She wants a little boy like him. He wants a little Lorena like her...no, not one, thousands!

And now another couple, Vasco and Diana are returning from the office party. Exchange of compliments. You were the prettiest one there...and who would have thought you'd be the life of the party. She counters with And you were such a great dancer! Mmmm...we can hear the hormones humming as he hesitantly moves in for a kiss. It's one-sided. He kisses her. Her lips just lie there. She steps back, looking worried and dashes in the house. He looks worried too...and sighs. Man, that was a baaaad kiss!

And yet another couple. Jaime and the unbearably screechy Barbara are going at is...word-wise. I just want to cut this woman's vocal cords! Seriously! He's not getting out of bed, not going to work. She's tries to flog him out of it. He tells her to leave him in peace.

At Casa Pobre, Diana HAS gotten out of bed, and very early too. She's left for work before Vasco is up. Not looking good, dude. Omar and Julian are off on errands and then Julian plans to come back to help Zulema with her food deliveries. Not to worry, chaste Lorena is coming over to help her.

Hortensia is shuffling papers at the office, musing that she thought she'd miss Jacqui but she doesn't. Sara is all over being helpful and turning in graphs on client orders, how often a year the orders come, profits, etc. Still, Hortensia, no fool, muses that Jacqui is faithful and loyal. Sara, on the other hand, is wildly ambitious and who knows how far she would go to get what she wants.

Lorena and Zulema has finished the deliveries and now, happily, Lorena has enough money to buy the knives she needs for cooking class. When Zulema hears of this, she wants to make sure they can get them for Sara also if she needs them.

Screechy Barbara, not content with reaming out Jaime, is still harping at Arturo, wondering how in the world he could invest all his money in a scam operation. When she finally whines that she would help him "if she could", he suggests finding him a spot in his mother-in-law's operation. But goodness...what post could he fill?...maybe that of her husband? Well, since he's doing it in other ways, why not?

Okay, back at cooking school, Lorena's being offered a "calm your nerves snack" from her new second year buddy before the cooking class with the ogre. Friend is rushing off to the bathroom and Lorena, terrorized, is in such a hurry to get to class, she barges through the crowd, knocking into a fellow who asks her "what's the hurry". She explains about the class she's going to and the demon who teaches it is unforgiving of lateness. Really? He's going there too. Well hurry for heaven's sake!..... the teacher is a real crank!

Hey, we know where this is going but they tease us a little bit by switching back to the clinic where Alonso and Valeria are talking in the office.

Bruno comes in, learns that Lorena and Alonso have made up and sneers, Well at least something is going well for you. Then he tells him he has to take another doctor's patients (who's on vacation) as well as handling his own. But hey, Alonso can do the work of ten! And what will YOU be doing?, snaps Valeria. I'll be meeting with the engineers about some medical equipment, frowns Bruno. After he stomps out, Valeria confides that she can bear him less every day. He has delusions of grandeur just like her husband.

And now our final scene. Lorena sits down, looks up and realizes that the fellow she bumped into is....yikes...actually the professor himself. And hot, hot, hot! Things are looking up, ladies.

And he's also "hot "as in mad, annoyed, cranky. He docks Lorena's friend two points for being late, and gives a tough little talk about how he's not here to teach them to be cooks, he's here to teach them to be exceptional chefs. And some of you aren't up to the task, he adds, looking meaningfully at little Lorena.

The End. Well, not really, we've got months to go. And frankly, now I'm getting interested. This potential romance has a lot more interest for me than the lukewarm relationship going on with poor ,dazed, overworked Alonso. So hey! on with el show.

VOCABULARY

dar el ancho en cualquier puesto = to be able to handle any job (what grandiose Arturo says to Barbara)

más salado que un bacalao = literally "more salty than a codfish" but meaning "really jinxed"

devoluciones = returns, or meaning "no going back". What happy Don Toribio said when Alonso and Lorena reconciled and got engaged

resbaladilla = playground slide

el alma de la fiesta = life of the party

Labels: enemiga

Olegario gets caught out in this two timing ways with the help of the fruit sons. I'm glad it was Dominga that discovered him and Quintina and not the other way around. Dominga is young and pretty. She can find someone else (like Miguel or Manolo).

After what happened before, did Carmela really think she was going to get away with throwing out Martin's stuff? Didn't Fernando tell her and Malcom not to provoke the sisters?

Dínora's disguise didn't seem to fool anyone. She reminded me of Antonia in LT in her 'George' disguise.

Why on earth did Norma, Jimena and Sarita think that it was a good idea to tell Grabi about Feonando gambling with his buddies? Grabi knew that they came to the house. What was she going to do - admit that her husband is a lowlife? All it did was p*ss Grabi off.

It looks like Feonando sinks even lower tomorrow.

Labels: gavilanes

It's just not appropriate to use a funny title for this episode.

Rehash: Mili asks Hugo to come to bed. He gets a gleam in his eye, and she sets him straight--no not what you think, honey . . . He throws his painting aside.

Karla is seen with Fernando.

Mili sees Al on the stairs. She tells him he was right about their bad marriages. She tells him she trusts him.

Lobo is relishing the dessert Marisela prepared. Mari goes to the bathroom, leaving Mat and Lobo alone. Lobo tells how he got rid of Domingo so Mat could have smooth sailing; Mat has his loyalty, so he shouldn't abuse it. Mari comes back, and Lobo prepares to leave, offering congratulations on their upcoming marriage.

The big meeting is assembled. Luci bears her newly returned shares. Damian looks at them incredulously, as he is expecting invisible ink, but no such luck for him. Mili reveals the shocking news that she has fired Mat and Al is her new rep.

When everyone leaves, Connie tells Luci that her game was well played--now they should go home and do it under the table.

Hugo and Mili have another argument, which I could not get all the details.

Soco, Lina, and Gloria joke in the kitchen about how hard they work. There's no servants' day--er, domestic workers, if you please--the way they have secretaries' day and bosses' day. They imagine what fun they'd have if the bosses and servants traded places. Karla comes in, and I'm not sure, but it seems like they play a trick on her and tell her that the next day is official servants' day. No time for jokes, as Karla is off to rehearse her wedding at the church--the wedding is the next day.

Over at the church, we see Padre M, Damian, Connie, and Karla. Connie makes a few remarks that raise Padre M's eyebrows. Karla simply exults in her good fortune that is finally just within her grasp. Finally, as Karla and Damian leave, Connie says, poor idiot, if he only knew what she was doing. I don't get this, but I guess Connie somehow learned about Fernando, but he doesn't know that Damian was paying Fernando off himself.

Hugo tells Flo about Mili made Al her rep.

Peralta is meeting with Connie in his office and warning Connie not to let his wife get drunk at some upcoming political event--we can't have a repeat of what happened at the wedding. Connie waxes pompously about his new position as party president. As if that wasn't enough hot air, Peralta passes gas.

Luci is trying on a very tight blue dress for the affair while Braulio praises her effusively. Just in time to burst her bubble comes Andrea, who says Luci shouldn't get too comfy in the wifey role. Luci says that everything's perfect in her marriage. Oh, yeah? Andrea grabs the dress and rips it. Braulio accuses her of ruining a work of art.

Socorro gets Gloria alone in the kitchen and questions her some more about the likely pregnancy. Gloria swears nothing happened and nothing is wrong and tells Socorro to butt out. Gloria protests too much, methinks.

Al comes in to see Flor, who is angry about his helping Mili. He asks who told her--his shrew of a mother or his jerk of a cousin? They fight some more, and he defends Mili, who at least trusts him and think he is honest and capable--unlike his own wife.
What's more, don't bother asking me to manage your business, he says. It's too late--I want a divorce!

Flo begs him not to leave her. He says he doesn't have to be married to take care of the child. Connie comes in, and Flo turns to him for hehlp. He begs him to tell Al not to leave her. Connie drags Al into the back office for a tune-up.

Mat and Fern are getting on their motorcycles with a few last jokes about Karla. Fern drives away, and a huge black SUV drives up with Lobo. Mat gets in the back seat looking rather tentative. It must be he knows that he should not have raided the Acorralada wardrobe closet again for that blinding orange sweater.

Damian comes in to see Hugo, who is paining. Is that Leonor? he asks. Hugo says something about the terrible pain of children who lose their mothers. Damian reminds him that he's getting married tomorrow--to Karla. Hugo says she is ligera de cascos, or flighty. (she's more than that--remember when she was sleeping with amnesiac Hugo? Maybe he doesn't remember . . .)

Damian doesn't understand why Hugo is letting Al take over. Well, what does he expect him to do about it? Damian himself was fool enough to lose Hugo's shares.

Al and Connie are now having a big shouting match in the library about the usual. What kind of father are you going to be, Connie asks. The same as you! Take that. Al warns Connie not to provoke him further. But Connie says he has Mili's best interests at heart.

Back to Lobo and Mat. Lobo hands Mat an envelope that looks like the one Connie handed the mysterious black-coated figure a couple of weeks ago. Probably not the same, though. Mat asks if this is what he thinks it is. Lobo warns him not to ask dumb questions.

Now for the money scene: We see Mili sulking on her bed when Florencia comes in. I hate you, she says to Mili. You did it. You took my husband. Flo brandishes a knife, but she is not there to stab Mili. No, she slowly slits her own wrists and falls to the ground as Mili, and we, look on in horror. Mili shouts for help, and Val comes in, followed quickly by Luci, who immediately accuses Mili of killing Flor. Val defends Mili, and Luci yells at Val. Andrea suddenly appears and tells Luci to stop yelling at her daughter. Val defends Andrea. Luci tells her to stop defending the slut who goes with her father. Mili says stop, somebody call a doctor! I really couldn't believe how long they let this colloquy go on without calling a doctor. I know there's a telenovela rule about dragging these scenes out, but this stretched even the usual rule. Braulio comes in and faints at the sight of the blood.

Mat and Lobo are still negotiating, although Mat is now in the front seat? Lobo wants Mat to go over to the Belmonte castle with Mari on the pretense of seeing Flor. He will leave the evidence there and let him know when it's ready. Then they will go to the next step. Mat looks pretty scared now, as he knows that he is in over his head. Lobo says the police know the plane crash was sabotage, so they must take care to avoid having the evidence point to them and have it point at Connie. Mat says that he had thought it would be great if Connie was guilty of the plane crash, because he would have him out of the way and not have to worry about the money Connie gave him to help. But this seems like too much. He thought it was an accident.

Lobo warns him again. Everything is arranged, and Mat better do his part. He tells Mat to leave the car.

Al is still arguing with Connie and now accuses him of killing Domingo. Connie is enraged and holds Al's tie like a noose. Just then, Nestor comes in out of nowhere and tells him to let go--of his son. Al is relieved but rejects Nestor's help, as he still doesn't accept him as father.

Mili and Hugo are now rehashing the Flor story. She's going to be okay, but Mili had a bad experience, seeing Flor cut herself right in front of her eyes. What made her do it? Hugo reminds her that he told Flor about the shares. They don't know that Al asked for a divorce, I think. Hugo then seems to be telling Mili not to go with Al, because she setting up Flor's child for a repeat of Mili's own story: a mother who dies in pain and leaves an orphan.

The doctor tells Al that Flor will be okay, but he has to keep watch on her. I'm amazed they're treating her at home, but I guess they don't want her to be in the hospital with a suicide history.
Al approaches a sleeping Flo and asks why she did it and begs her forgiveness.

Cut to comic relief, of all things. Karla is sitting on Damian's back, sort of giving him a massage and complaining about Flor. Couldn't she have waited waited till after Karla's wedding to slit her wrists? The nerve! Damian says she shouldn't worry--nothing will darken her big day. Karla asks if he is having a bachelor party, and he is not, as I understand. He wants her to have a bachelorette party, but she only wants to be with her chicken pimp. He ushers her out on the pretense of fending off seven years' bad luck.

Down in the hallway, Flo's doctor is violating HIPAA by telling Connie, Luci, Andrea, and Nestor all about Flo's condition. Marisela and Mat come in, and she wants to see her sister immediately. Mat looks like he would be pulling his collar if he weren't still wearing that orange sweater. Connie asks if he's all right.

Upstairs, Al exits Flo's room to find Mili in the hall. She asks him how Flor is--she was worried. It was all her fault and she's sorry. They hug, and Mari comes up just in time to catch them. You are the worst, Mari tells Al, warning him to watch out. Cut

Tomorrow: Al tells Mili of his suspicions regarding the plane crash. We still don't know who slashed the painting.

Labels: guapos

We start with the Pas still telling Sara they can’t take any of Abue Rica’s (Horty) money, especially because then Horty will think all is forgiven. Sara responds: It’s my right to use the money that will one day be mine to help you if I want. Pas don’t want her to tell abue about their bad fortune either. They apologize for raising voice .


Di complains about how everything went wrong and here is her Dad’s Ma being rich. Pa hears this and runs in saying that’s right...she is the millionaire not us. Besides I’ve got money because I mortgaged the house. He believes it’s right to pay for the cars and rebuild the shop.


Chalo is bugging Sara for his nookie because you know, he could have been dead now, but Sara says no time I have to keep on scheming. He whines.

Sara is packing to go to abue she doesn’t want to participate in revenge. Everything would be so easy if they would just forgive Abue. Zully runs upset to Omar.

Lore is still sitting by the stormy window.

Sara whines that Abue doesn’t even have Vasco to support her. Abue is so alone. Ma is disgusted. She is also upset that she could leave so soon after just finding them. Di listens in. Sara says she doesn’t want to have to choose between them either and this is sooooo difficult for her. Finally Pa gives in and says working with her fine, but you don’t live with her in her house. Sara smiles.


Di is getting the picture and complains to Vasco how Sara is manipulating her Pas. Vasco is kinder. Yeah, men are more clueless about female manipulation than women are. Vasco thinks it’s weird that she has such an affinity for his G-ma too, but he thinks well, she’s been void of family for so long and Snorty was the first one to fill the post, so Sara must feel some special allegiance to her.

Ma tells Di that Sara has agreed to stay and Pa has agreed to let her work with Abue.


Paula find keys in Betti’s jacket and takes the keys and chimes that she is going to sneak in and see exactly how ex-hubby lives.

Al & Tori chat about the news reporting an irresponsible driver, and then the story about Chalo getting hit by an older driver. Tori gets the hint.

Di calls Sara on her berrinche. Sara says it wasn’t but Di thinks at least emotional blackmail and she doesn’t want to fight either but she would like Sara to have more consideration for her parents.

Al tells Pa why Lore isn’t here and they are eating dirt again. He tells the story about Chalo. Pa says the guy should make the first move if he doesn’t want to keep fighting because she’s a woman. Pa doesn’t think Lore would trade him. He encourages sonny to go after her if she really matters. Say good bye to the problems.

Zully and Omar are discussing how weird it is that Sara defends the evil witch. They agree that money has colored her and that she is very materialistic. OK, they get the picture now. We know though that for the sake of plot line they are going to forget this little observation over and over again.

Lore wonders with Julian how it could be that everyone got sick from their food. She also talks about probably never getting back with Al. He cheers her that she can lean on them like family. Sara comes out and announces she’s going back to work with Snorty, oh, and Lore you better not be late for class. I notice she is getting Ferro’s hint and has a very low cut dress on this time and it’s actually different than before.

Back in the kitchen Di is telling Vasco that she knows Sara is her sis but something just ain’t right, she feels like Sara is a bad person. Vasco has that sense too. Oddly, he’s FINALLY changed his shirt!! But, ironically it doesn’t make sense to do this now, because he was sitting at the table earlier in the other shirt and it doesn’t really look like he would have left it, yet he has on the other shirt. Whatever. Guess I’m becoming an Anon#1 noticing everyone's clothes. Funny.

Lore comes in and muses more with Vasco and Di about the food issues. She and Julian go into the kitchen to start cooking. Di remarks that the opposite is happening with Lore as with Sara, instead, she is liking Lore more and more each day.

Lore tries to cheer Zully up, and tells of her idea to sell grilled tacos and pass out menus to each buyer. She has to go out and won’t help.

Pau shares her key discovery with Greta and she is more than happy to go with and even suggests that they duplicate the keys for future use.

Sara shows back up at work, oddly, she has pinned up her dress and is now hiding her cleavage. This is like the third time I’ve seen this. Odd. Jaqui gives her a job that she usually does every year for the San Jorge golf club saying Sara should learn more. Sara is pleased that she would do this for her.

Lore attracts a man to her taco stand who orders tacos de chicharrones for like 40 cents and gets a flyer for him and his sister. Another man walks up.

Jaqui is showing Sara stuff when Jaime comes in surprised to see her and hints at Jaqui to disappear. Sara tells that she convinced her Pa. Jaime is glad and wishes her Pa would take his help.

Zully shows up at the mansion to demand that Snorty not to buy off Sara. Snorty says people change and Zully says yeah, people, but you aren’t human. This boils her blood finally and it begins spilling out as she yells at Zully and calls her a measly house cleaner (afanadora).
Zully says there's that loving witch Horty that I knew, she wishes Sara saw this side. Smirk. Snorty te;;s her too, ha, your daughter is just like me or worse, why do you think she's working for me. Snorty asks Zully if when her daughter dreamt about her mother if she saw a good for nothing onion and garlic chopper. This earns Snorty a bofetada (slap).


Snorty throws her out and Zully says her daughter will remain with them because she cares about them and all your millions can't do anything because you'll end up in jail..

Lore and Juli are still in the park. All of a sudden they are attracting customers like flies. You know what else attracts flies. How funny. Anyway, she has raja con crema, tinga, mole, (super great site by the way) & chicharron en salsa verde.

Sara is kissing Jaqui's behind that she doesn't have the tasting experience that Jacqui does and Jac suggests they taste the dishes today and surprise Snorty. Sara suspects a trick, but agrees.

In the kitchen, Rossy and Maru are thanking their lucky stars that the witch and witchlet haven't shown up yet, when the mere utterance has summoned them, well part of them noticeably absent is Snorty and we know this signals trouble. Sara and Jacqui taste the food and all agree it's good. Rossy mocks them.

Omar is begging the guy to get the house deal in order as soon as possible because he really needs the money. Just then the "sorry" brother shows up. Jaime goes to try and give charity to Omar who of course pulls macho and won’t take any help. He thinks the help is only being offered so they wouldn't send him to jail, but Jaime says he's blood, yeah even though a little late on that.

Lore and Julian are just sending tacos off on the fly but they have to stop around 2:30 so she can go to school. Julian is already worn out.

More musing about the bad food. Vasco asks Di to the anniv party that she is already invited too. It's the org's 20th birthday. Cute.

Zully comes home and Jaime begs on bended knee for forgiveness but she says it's better if he leaves.

Jaqui tells Snorty they tasted the dishes already and she rips Jaqui a new one, not wanting to see her for a week. We knew this was coming.

Pau and Greta check out the love nest of the ex and remark at it’s luxury. Pau thinks everything is in her style and thinks this should have been her life.

Sara wants to help Jaqui who runs into the bathroom upset that she was sent home for a week.

Snorty chews out Maruja for letting the girls taste instead of her royal highness. They pull out the dishes again. Now if they were the same ones, of course they would be icky by now. Of course she likes none of them and expects them to be redone.

Rossy calls her a maniac. She suggests that everyone just leaves work in order to annoy that woman.


After the break Rossy channels Che Guevara and wants to start a revolution, that everyone has worked hard and doesn’t deserve to be mistreated. Maru tries to talk her out of it. Chef tells her too, he needs the work to feed his family and can't be a part of the "movement." Finally Maru threatens her impliedly with being fired, and she relents and Head chef Guy tells her it's not really better in other businesses than here, so relax.

Snorty chews out Sara for tasting the plates and Sara kisses her behind bad and says it will never happen again if she knew it would upset her she wouldn't have done it. Snorty bad mouths Jacqui, but also tells Sara that her Ma came to smack her down. Sara is sorry and ashamed, but says they let her back to work here, and slowly she is able to convince them to give her whatever she asks. Snorty says each day she cares less if they forgive her. Sara says well forgive you maybe not, but at least not press charges. She says they are now so saddled with debt they don't have a cent to pay an attorney. This spikes suspicion in the old witch and she wonders if Sara had something to do with the fire. Sara doesn't deny this, but procures an interesting quirky face and smiles saying for her Abuela to trust her. Snorty still unsure but suspecting, smirks back.

At the lesser house, Lore hands over a good bit of money to Zully and they thank her for helping them - Julian says Lore was a pro and not ashamed at all. Lore says she has to get ready to go to school now. Zully and Omar remark that it's Sara's first day too. She invites Lore to eat wth them and then they will all go over to the school together. She made chiles rellenos! Lore agrees.


The secret mission continues over at the lux apartment. Greta actually makes Pau a tea in their cups to calm Pau. Pau continues to complain about how all this stuff was her idea, and she can't believe that woman is living the life she should have, blah blah blah...just then they hear some key shaking and realizr someone is coming in. They leave the tea cup on the table, and all the pillows in disarray and run to hide behind the sofa. Jacqui comes in sits down moving the pillows and relaxes. Pau pops up to look at her and Greta grabs her head back down and reminds her to be quiet.

At the clinic Bruno goes in to see Al and asks if he has seen Sara. He says she's probably fine, why? Bruno says he would have liked to see her again. Al says well go look for her then. Bruno says he was thinking of that, to go and see her at work, but Al says well she's probably not there because today she and Lore start school. Bruno smiles and must get an idea...

Behind the sofa, Pau can barely contain her anger, when ex-hubby shows up. Jacqui thanks him for his support because she feels really bad and hates Snorty. He tells her she doesn't need to work, that's what he's for. this of course earns another wince from Paula. But luckily jacqui says she wants to work. Dario has something to take her mind off of it all, choose their honeymoon destination. Jacqui says no, you pick, she doesn't care. Of course he says he's always wanted to go to Thailand and Jacqui says that sounds great, then that's where we'll go. Another wince from Pau who is almost ready to body slam these two.

Attention finally turns to the cup on the table. He didn't put it there and she swears she didn't forget it from last night either. She thinks there are ghosts in the aparttment. Dario cracks up and says no way and knows how to relax her. They start going at it. Finally moving to the bedroom. At this point Greta and Pau make their circus exit. After the door closes, Jac runs back in swearing she heard noises. Jiggly tits follows her (sorry, he's still in pretty good shape for a guy his age, but it's best if he stands still and doesn't run. I'm used to Alejandro in Guapos and those Reyes guys with their shirts off, so in comparison.....)

Down on the street the gals muse about how they were almost caught. Pau muses about how Jacqui has Pau's life. I tell ya, this is the worst, but there is nothing you can do except suck it up and move on. Greta agrees with me because she thinks that Pau should never have heard all that stuff.

On the street in front of work Bruno catches up to Sara and brings her a smallish bouquet of flowers for luck. He offers to take her to school, but she says he Tia's chauffeur will take her and besides his patients need him more than she does and he should not have troubled himself with as busy as he is. She rolls down the window and takes off smirking at him. He smirks back.

At the institute we see Lore with her true family getting off the micro. Oh the irony them on the bus and Sara with the driver. Ha Ha. They go inside and Zully wants to make sure they have the camera. Julian says that's the fifth time they asked. They go inside and start taking pictures everywhere of all combinations. Sara shows up. Then someone asks who is Lorena. Turns out Alonzo has sent her a giant basket of flowers and stuff with a bear. Sara can only look on in envy. We then see that Alonzo is outside of the window waving and making goofy faces. Lore motions she thanks him.

Thanks for your patience....

Labels: enemiga