Caray, Caray!

Labels: gancho

Hi everyone. Sorry I was stuck out of town without any cable access and the slowest internet (if you can call it that) connection ever. It was like I was back in time. Nothing wrong with me, sorry to leave you worried. My Grandma, 91, had broken her hip. Also, sorry you were short a recap last week, with no notice from me. I am trying to catch up on the episodes I missed, so my recap will be a little late today. Gotta get back to watching.

Paloma talks to Macarena about Cami’s offer to lend her money for college. She realizes she can’t accept it. She fills Mac in on her new plan. She’s going to work for a year, save some money, and then head to uni when her program is open for enrollment the next year. She tells Mac that she’s got to get out of Real del Monte. This plan saddens Mac.

Liliana is having a chat with her friend (Sandi/Candi?). They talk about Romina and her suicide attempt. Lili feels bad, even though she hates Romi. Scandi says don’t feel bad, Romi is a terrible person, who has no friends. Except Paloma, but then Romi isn’t much of a friend to Pal. Lili is depressed because of Germán and his feelings for Romi. Scandi tries to get Lili to have some hot chocolate, it will make her feel better---I agree, everything is easier to deal with once chocolate is involved.

Aron asks Angelica if the gossip he heard was true, that Romi tried to kill herself. Angelica, apparently not tied to patient confidentiality, is quick to say “yes”. Then it isn’t gossip, Aron replies. I won’t get into the moral issues his comment brings up, just to say if the news (whether true or false) was delivered with malicious intent, then it falls under the realm of gossip. Then there is the whole Schadenfreude (pleasure derived from the misfortunes of others) aspect to this whole situation. That aside, Aron decides he needs to talk to Pal, better yet he needs to see her. So he takes off.

Diana is visiting Romi. They both blame Paloma for the entire situation. Romi says she’ll never talk to her again. Di says that’s not the way to work it, it is time to fight a battle a la Paloma-style (do I need to add that Paloma isn't even fighting a battle, so how can she have a style?). You’ve got to keep your enemy close. If Romi were to push Pal away it would only make Romi look bad and Pal the be the victim. The real victim is Romi and that is how Romi needs to make it appear.

Scandi tries to make Lili feel better. She warns her friend that even if Germie were to stay away from Romi, he’s already established a pattern…there will be other women. Scandi tells Lili that there are other men out there, who will treat her much better and besides Germie isn’t worth it. Just then Scandi’s primo, Eric, shows up. He’s now working in Real del Monte. He teases that they didn’t even invite him for a coffee. Lili is quick to insist he join them.

Inés asks Angelica about Aron. They discuss how he’s in love with Paloma. Inés seems to isapprove. The two women talk of love and Inés presses Angie for some info on her past love life. Angie is reluctant at first, but ends up telling Inés that she was in love with one of her professors and that they got involved while Angie was helping him write one of his books. It ended badly when Angie realized that although he was married, he was involved with another woman quite seriously.

Dr. Rodolfo is looking at the engagement ring he has for Mac while he’s on the phone with her. He wants to see her this evening. Mac says this is her home, too, and invites him over for dinner. Carlota overhears this and frankly she’s not happy with Mac’s attitude. She slinks off to do no good.

Diana gives Emiliano a call and tells him that they’ve got to speak—tonight!

Cruelota makes a phone call to Dr. Rodolfo. She needs to tell him something. Since we don't hear his side of the conversation, he apparently agreed to see her later that afternoon.

Aron visits Pal. He’s worried about how she’s doing in light of the whole Romi drama. Speak of the she-devil, Pal gets a call from Romi. Romi would like to see her. Pal is very concerned with how her friend is doing. Aron warns Pal to be careful, he’s sure that Romi intends to lay the blame all at Paloma’s feet.

Eric is really funny---or so we are lead to believe by the amount of laughing from Lili and Scandi. Lili hates to cut it short, but she told her mother she’d be home early. She gets up and Eric assists her with her chair. He insists on walking her home, so he can at least explain to her mother why she was running late. Lili agrees to let him escort her.

Rufi tells Mac that she’s got to tell her something, even though it seems crazy. She tells her about thinking she saw Cristobal outside the church. Mac is sure it was just her eyes playing tricks. Mac is a little dreamy when she whistfully says she’d love to be able to see him, his eyes, again.

Pal arrives at Romi’s. She expresses her worry and concern. She genuinely fawns over Romi. Romi seems like she’s hopped up on some meds (perhaps they didn’t pump her stomach thoroughly). Romi asks Pal if she’s in love with Emiliano, because if she is, then Romi is willing to step aside so Pal can be happy.

Diana visits Rafa. She is insistent that he bring Emiliano into the company. Rafa tells her he can’t do that right now. E is working for an established, stable company. Right now that offers him some security and a chance to develop professionally. Rafa’s company is just starting up, it can’t offer E that stability for now. Di isn’t happy to hear this and she lets into Rafa. If he doesn’t get E away from that Orlando man, he’s going to lose their son. Rafa can’t understand Diana’s hysterical dramatics.

Pal asks Romi why she thinks this. Romi says because of the kiss. Pal says the kiss meant nothing. Romi again says she’ll step aside, it won’t be easy and will cost her, but she’s that type of friend, one willing to sacrafice. Pal tells Romi that she’s going to leave Real del Monte when they finish up at la prepa. So does Pal love Emiliano? Romy asks. Pal avoids answering, instead she says—don’t worry, when I leave I’ll never see Emiliano again. A small smile forms on Romi's face.

Eric lets Scandi know he’s interested in Lili. Scandi is happy and she tells Eric that Lili’s just coming out of a bad relationship. Eric says that guy must have been crazy to let a great girl like Lili go. Scandi is even more delighted to hear this.

Cami comes to talk to Romi after Pal leaves. She wants to encourage Romi to start being honest. She tells Romi that she’s concerned because Romi’s version of events doesn’t line up with Emiliano’s version of events. Romi is upset to realize her mother doesn’t believe her. Cami tells Romi she needs to start being honest, not only with others, but with herself. All Cami wants for her daughter is for her to find some peace and to start making good decisions. Cami wants Romi to get some help and she suggests that Romi talk to Angelica. Romi isn’t keen on that idea. She’s willing to talk to someone, but not Angelica.

Aron’s worried that Pal is willing to take the fall for Romi’s poor choice. She fills Aron in on her conversation with Romi. Aron states that he thinks it is weird that Romi is willing to step aside for Pal. Romi’s not the type of person willing to make sacrafices for others.

In the D.F., Natalia tells her friend (who just returned from being out of town and also who’s name escapes me) that Alfonso and she have been having problems. Alfie has been cold and closed off since Iñaki died. Natalia thinks they might be at the point of separation.

Pal talks to Mac about her conversation with Romi. She tells Mac that leaving town really is her best option. She’s decided she’ll go to the D.F. Mac is concerned, it is a big city and Pal will be alone. Pal says that she’s got Natalia there, she can help her. Pal tells Mac that Natalia and Padre Juan know each other. Pal intends to talk to Padre Juan some more, he can be of help.

Padre Juan/Cristobal tells Padre Mateo his story---how he was a heavy drinker and ended up finding his calling after hitting rock bottom.

Cruelota meets with Rodolfo. She tells him that she wants to talk about Mac. He’s not willing to do this and tells her she should leave. Cruelota is insistent, that things aren’t as they seem, that Mac is an expert at making appearances be deceiving. This catches Rodolfo’s attention. Cruelota tells him that there are secrets in their family, and Mac is at the heart of them all. We don’t get to hear what Cruelota tells Rodolfo. We just get to see her leave his office and then he pulls out the engagement ring once again, to look at it and to look sad.

Mac is making a cake for the doctor. Rufi comments that it has been 20 years since Mac has cooked for a man. Mac comments that although she isn’t in love with Rodolfo, she is very fond of him and has great respect for him.

Orlando is on the phone with Cami. She thanks him for the flowers he sent to Romi. He invites her to come over for dinner. Cami tells him that now isn’t a good time, with Romi just home from the hospital. He is persistent and suggests he could come there. Cami kindly declines, it is best she spend time alone with Romi. Their call is cut short by the doorbell ringing. It is Cruelota. She’s there to give Cami what-for. She doesn’t like the fact that Cami is offering Pal money for college….their family isn’t a charity case. Cami insists she wasn’t offering charity. Paloma is Romi’s good friend and Cami would like to help her out. Cruelota tells her that the offer isn’t appreciated, won’t be accepted, and that she shouldn’t bother offering to help Paloma again. END OF EPISODE

Labels: amor

Permalink posted by Cathy @ 6:11 AM 7 comments

As we return to the day-to-day of the effete elite of Villa Madero, Estev and Errorika continue their ruse with Padre Arcadio in order to secure a fake “replacement” baptism record for Franco by circumventing Padre Bosco and using Estev as the “witness” for Franco Santoro’s baptism; Aurora gets ready to tell the mother superior how things went this time with La Sra. Barbara; La Sra., aka Bad-ass Barbie, is on her way back to Grupo and in seventh heaven over her reconciliation with Aurora. At Grupo, Fernanda looks on as Fr/Eduardo comes up with an excuse to convince Camilo that Barbara’s getting control of Grupo Lactos from Gonzalo will benefit them all financially.

The convoluted explanation Fr/Eddie gives is that Barbara Greco is the only executive in management at Grupo that the supposed “executive board” of Powhere Meelk knows and trusts should anything major happen to Gonzo. (Said another way, the big shots from PM figure Gonzo is pretty much past his sell by date.) Unfortunately, Cad is not in the mood to be convinced and refuses to go along with Step-Mommie Dearest taking full ownership of the family enterprise. He’s pissed at Fer for bowing at the feet of PM who he thinks is taking advantage of the Elizalde’s rotten financial situation. Fr/Ed tells him the contract says Gonzo’s children will get all the profits [utilidades] from the business for the next ten years and that would essentially be worth twice what Barbara stands to make off this deal. Cad remains adamantly opposed to the whole proposition. “Only over my dead body will that woman get my father’s business!” They’ve been warned. He slams the door on his way out.

After Cad storms out of Fer’s office, Fer worries that the strategy won’t work. Fr/Ed says it will because Barbara and Cad are thick as the thieves they are, and he is certain she will make sure Cad doesn’t screw with her plans. Fer remembers then that she learned another secret regarding Barbara. She asks Fr/Ed if he knows Aurora.

Rory, meanwhile, tells the mother superior how changed La Sra. Barbara was this visit and how La Sra. seemed so sorry for the way she’d treated her. The nun wants to know why the woman’s attitude has changed. Aurora says La Sra. has forgiven her as apparently Cad admitted drugging Aurora in order to rape her. Once Rory brings up the business then with the bloody cross and words scrawled on the bathroom mirror, the nun gets a bit suspicious. (I would too, especially since there was no hint of indignation on the part of La Sra. regarding the vile act of rape by one of her step-sons. I mean, doesn’t everybody’s kid do it?) The nun says she wants a detailed rundown of absolutely everything that happened to Rory while she was living with the Elizalde’s, starting from the first moment she met Sra. Elizalde. (Query: ever notice it’s the nuns in these things that get justicia for their flock in the end? Ten points, Team Mother Superior!)

Fer tells Fr/Ed about Flo seeing Babs entering the convent and fills him in on how Barbara had thrown out Rory after so conveniently catching her in bed with another man even though Rory really loves Santiago. Nobody knows who the man was and Barb wouldn’t say. (¡Qué suspicaz!) Wheels start to turn in Fr/Ed’s head.

Cad goes into Barb’s office to call her. He screams at her on the phone about his father giving her the ownership of Grupo and threatens her over it. Barb says she’ll discuss it with him once she gets back there. It won’t change his mind, he says, and he threatens her again.

Meanwhile, Fer tells Fr/Ed she believes there’s some link between Aurora and Barb and she plans to find out just exactly what it could be. Fr/Ed warns her to be careful and then gets ready to go before Barb returns and finds him there with her. They thank each other for the support they’ve been giving each other throughout. (Yawn.) He holds his hand out to shake hers as he leaves. (Excuse me? What a lame move.) Fer kisses him on the cheek instead (another lame move). Fr/Ed touches his cheek and then his lips. (It’s enough for Fer, but definitely not for Viewerville, who is starved for something more than pre-teen daydreams of kissy-faced romance on sandy beaches.) He smiles at her like a little boy with a big secret and leaves. (Yeah, pocket that dude. You will need it soon enough when Nanda finds out just exactly what that big secret is.) Fer sighs and smiles herself. (Viewerville marks its disappointment with a communal harrumph.)

At Bravo’s manse in the big city, Lili comes in for a little chat with her Uncle Artie. (The place must be agreeing with her. She’s finally wearing something besides those gawd awful sweats for a change.) Lili asks if she ever told him he is very much like her father. This angers him but she says they are brothers and both are the sons of her Abuelo Jeronimo. Artie tries convincing her that was only an accident of birth and says he and she are not like the rest of the Elizalde’s. They only have each other, now. Lili should realize, he says, after 15 years that none of the others stopped going on about their daily lives for an instant to worry about her after they learned she’d left the clinic. (I’m sure she remembers that Fer did.) He then changes the subject and suggests they go off together to travel the world and see all the unique places of interest. Lili gets excited at the idea of seeing Egypt and the Pyramids and perhaps, various museums. Bravo says they’ll go off together, take care of one another, and be companions for the rest of their lives. (Like that’s a cheery scenario for a young woman of twenty-something.) Lili’s eyebrows go up and we can only assume she’s considering what that might entail. (Travel is grand, but I’d rather imagine it with my Mr. Wonderful –and an old goat like Bravo ain’t exactly what I’d say passes for anybody’s Mr. Wonderful.)

Back at Grupo a bit later, Fer tells Flor that she’s going to visit the convent herself the next day to speak with the mother superior about what she might know about the connection between Aurora and Barbara. Barb comes out of the elevator just as they’re finishing their discussion. She makes a show of saying hello to Fer who makes a point of saying nothing back. After Barb struts off, Fer wonders if Barb heard their conversation, but Flor is certain that she didn’t. Fer then has Flor sketch [un croquis = a sketch] a map of how to get to the convent.

Cad is waiting for Barb in her office and angrily warns her again that he won’t go along with the transfer of the company to her, but she convinces him he’s got too much on her for her not to continue their partnership. All he has to do is marry Lovely Norton as planned and she’ll take care of the rest, assuring him she’ll make him a millionaire to the end of his days. Cad takes the peso pacifier and reverts to type, figuring it’s easier to let Barb do the heavy lifting and let the easy money roll in.

That evening, Estev and Err are still chatting it up with Padre Arcadio. Estev really gets into it and makes up all sorts of nifty little details about his life spent with his childhood friend, Franco, including being at Franco’s first communion and reception.

Barb now calls Fr/Ed to tell him she’s surprised but appreciative of what he did in demonstrating his loyalty towards her by getting Fer to persuade Gonzo. He says it’ll cost her. He wants to see Lili again. “That’s it?” she asks. He says yes. She says fine, whenever he wants. Fr/Ed says he wants to visit Lili the next day at noon. Barb agrees to it. After she hangs up the batty b!tch smiles to herself about her nearing day of liberation and how having her daughter has begun to give her life meaning. [cobrar sentido]

Anibal now pays a visit to Damian. He is anxious to know how trustworthy the people Dam has in mind are regarding the job he wants done with Vladimir. Dam wonders what’s up and AnyBalls explains he can’t trust Vlad to keep his mouth shut about the baby.

At the same time, Pris is remembering Vlad’s plea not to let her husband separate him from his child. Pris says to herself that she realizes now how much Vladimir loves her child and for his own good he should leave and get far away from all of them.

Cowardly Anyballs, proving once again he wishes he actually had some, tells Dam he’ll pay him half the money the next morning and the rest after the job is finished. Dam wonders when he wants it done. AB says the sooner the better. Dam tells him he’s dealing with major leaguers here. (Oh that’s rich, considering it’s Jacobo and Company.) Dam asks if he should just try persuasion, but AB says that only opens the door for the guy to threaten him with exposing him anytime he gets the urge, and that would mean he and Pris and the baby would lose the inheritance. Dam is pesos-in-his-pupils impactado with this revelation and he gets ready to push the advantage. AB hints he needs something more permanent. Dam says greedily that that will cost AB double.

Errika calls Fer to invite her to join her for a couple of hours the next day at the MUNAL, El Museo National de Arte, with Franco and Estev. Fer agrees to go and says she will take Margarita for the cultural excursion, but Fer needs Errika to take Marge back home afterwards since Fer needs to make a trip to the convent to speak with the mother superior afterwards. Err makes some stupid joke about Fer deciding to become a nun now which Fer does not appreciate. (I got to admit that I don’t much appreciate much of what Dolly’s ditzy daughter does or says these days, myself.)

Across the way at Las Animas, meanwhile, Estev has just told Eddie what he was doing at Padre Arcadio’s with Errika. Eddie puts up such a fuss that Estev thinks Ed’s wanted to avoid the baptism record altogether as a way to get out of his engagement to Errika. “Tell me. Do you want to cancel your wedding with Errika?” Ed struggles cuz it’s obvious he’d love to but…..

At the same time, Fer has gotten hold of Santi and told him how badly Cad took Gonzo’s decision to give Barbara the family business. Moping mop-top Santi says it’s all the same to him; he won’t lose any sleep over it. Santi then changes the subject to Lili. Fer explains that eventually Gonzo will want to bring in the police, and then Barb will tell Bravo and their chances for getting her back will disappear. Santi thinks it’s time Gonzo is told the truth, but Fer tells him that Gonzo has heart problems and his doctor says any sudden shock would be fatal for him. So, the lie must continue.

Back at Las Animas, Ed says he gave his word and he’s sticking by it. This makes Estev snicker. (Me too. This line is gettin’ stale.) Ed explains to Estev how Padre Bosco refused to allow the wedding or to accept any baptismal record from “Franco Santoro.” He gets an even bigger guffaw from his buddy when Franco says he doesn’t want the wedding to proceed if it’s based on a lie. (No duh. This begs the question: which lie of the many are we talking about here, considering Err doesn’t know the biggest one of all yet, that she’d really be marrying Eduardo Juarez, the son of the Elizalde’s housekeeper.) Estev asks Ed again if he really is going to go through with marrying Err. Ed says yes and he’ll make the effort to make her happy. (How thoughtful. How generous.) “What about your love for Fernanda?” Estev poignantly poses the question. Ed says he’ll carry that in his heart till the day he dies. (Eddie-boy is making it very difficult for me not to want to wash my hands of him at this point. Kudo’s to Estev for soldiering on in hopes of eventually making his BFF see reason.)

Santi tells Fer he thinks he jumped the gun by running off to Italy, but she says no, things with Lili could be resolved at any time. She changes the subject to her going to see the mother superior at the convent to find out what she can about Aurora. She tells him she found out that Barb has been going to visit Rory there and it seems a little fishy to her. [darle mala espina= to feel uneasy] Santi is still angry about Rory cheating on him and says nothing will change the facts, even if he knew the name of the man Barb found her with. Fer sympathizes and says to wait till after she’s talked with the woman and they’ll have the answers they need. That should clear up whatever doubts they might still have about Aurora. He says go ahead because he simply cannot continue living through the Hell he’s had to.

Meanwhile, Aurora sleeps the sleep of the innocent and dreams of a forgiving Santi coming back for her and the baby.

The next morning Fernanda and Marge meet up with Estev and Errika in front of the MUNAL. Fast Eddie rides up on a motorcycle lookin’ hot in leather and denim. (He loses points with hubby, though, for the nerdy helmet.)

Dam gives Vlad an early morning call during breakfast. Vlad’s in no mood to speak to his ex-pal. Dam accuses him of eating scorpions (instead of Cheerios) for breakfast. He only wants to help his friend out after all. Vlad says Dam doesn’t know the meaning of the word and remains suspicious. “Don’t waste my time. I’ve got to get to work.” Dam says he’s got a plan that should interest him since it has to do with Pris and the baby. Vlad is all ears.

The tour of the MUNAL and our Mexican art history lesson (PSA #1199) begins. The only thing notable for many (me included) is the way Errorika drapes herself all over Fr/Eddie and the furtive glances he and Fer alternately share. (For those who care and are artistically inclined, hubby says Orozco is vastly overrated and the only one worthwhile of the artists mentioned was Diego Rivera but, the pre-Columbian sculpture was worth the price of admission. I say, “Ehh! To each his own, and” --you should pardon the pun—“different strokes for different folks…..” The only Mexican work of art worth looking at in my opinion was Fernando Colunga. Yowza!! Love the way he fills out those gringo blue jeans!) FF>>

Back at Grupo, Denia has a hard time deciding with cousin Flor what kind of “career” she wants to study for. She’s no good at numbers and it would seem, not so great at learning English either….. bada-boom. Forget computers, bookkeeping or being a bilingual sexratary.

The mother superior prays to the virgencita for guidance.

Vlad agrees to see Dam who tells him nobody has the right to separate him from either his child or the woman he loves. He says that’s why it surprises him that Vlad agreed to accept Anibal’s offer. Vlad immediately wonders how he found out. Dam says that doesn’t matter. What’s important is that he has a very good source that tells him Anyballs is ready to comply with what he promised. Vlad figures out it was AB that sent him and yells at Dam that he can go back and tell Anyballs he doesn’t believe a word of it. Dam says Vlad doesn’t have any choice and is being stupid if he doesn’t believe him. Vlad suffers another moment of indecision. (Will he or won’t he fall for the ruse?)

The mother superior (now that the phones are apparently working again) calls Grupo looking for Fernanda, but she hangs up without leaving her name when she finds out from Flor that Fer isn’t there.

Dam manages to calm down Vlad and tells him he’s got it wrong. He’s not there on behalf of anybody, much less a tyrant like Anibal. Vlad, he says, runs off at the mouth and needs to learn to keep his mouth shut from time to time. Vlad agrees and says his problem is that he’s become confused with everything that’s been going on. Good pal Dam says that’s precisely why he decided to come see him, to offer his help and support by seeing that Anibal doesn’t end up with his kid. Vlad says thanks, but it’s all been handled now. Dam doesn’t understand. Vlad says he couldn’t be expected to sit around with his arms crossed and do nothing while the guy tries to take his child and wife from him. Dam asks if he’s saying he’s seen Pris again.

Vlad says he had to see Pris again and that now she understands and says he’s right about everything. Dam tells him he’s an idiot; that he should realize Pris is really on Anibal’s side. Vlad refuses to believe that of his “angel”. Dam tells him to shut up and listen. “You can’t really think that she would risk losing the Elizalde fortune her kid will inherit, do you? Settle down. Get used to it! [aterrizar] You are so naïve! All the rich are the same. They’re all trash!! Among the rich it’s all understood.” (Could it be that Dam is out to double-cross the double-crossing Elizalde’s?) Vladi is as confused as ever. (So am I. What’s he suddenly doing with a 5:00 shadow at 8 AM?)

Bravo is examining Lili’s birth certificate when he gets a call from the security guard that Fr/Ed and Barbara are out front. He carefully puts the document into an envelope and throws the envelope into his desk drawer. Barb and Fr/Ed walk in. Barb tells Bravo that as part of their agreement, Franco has come to see Lili again. She thinks it’s the least they can do considering the impeccable behavior he’s demonstrated towards them the last day or two. Bravo says he’s happy to hear things are progressing positively for them, but he cannot comply with Santoro’s request. Barb becomes visibly upset and asks why. Bravo says it’s because Lili isn’t there. Fr/Ed frowns and is obviously upset with this disturbing turn of events.

Labels: manana

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 3:01 PM 106 comments

Alternate title: What really happened with the Octogenarians in Monterrey?

In tonight’s episode, we have a number of people pretending to be others. We get to see Moni in a new outfit. And Anastasia – well, our buxom babe has revealed quite a bit to the viewers already, but tonight we learn her deepest secret. No, it’s not the name of her plastic surgeon. Let’s take a look at what happened.

We recap with Mau and Moni’s discussion after Beto decided not to spill the beans. Mau asks Moni if she remembers that special day they had on the set of the telenovela, when he rescued her on that big horse. Of course, that was the best day of Moni’s life, it was like a dream. Well, when you lie, Moni, that dream becomes a nightmare, says Mau, and the woman from that day seems like another woman. That woman was honest. He dismisses her, saying go with your brother, and we see Connie smiling, having listened in on at least part of the conversation.

Back in the vecindad, Ximena has finished giving her “testimony” to Cristian the Cop, feeling better now that she’s turned in her “hermanolfo” (a contraction of hermano and golfo, or lowlife brother). Estrella and Paula want to know what Ximmy said, so they ask Cris. He says it’s confidential, there’s NO WAY he can tell them that there’s a sinister plot to kill Mauricio and take all his money. And it’s confidential, so he can’t tell them that the principal suspects are Jeronimo Sermeño and Oscar Cardenas Villavicencio! For now, he has to report to his bosses, who’ll choose what to do next. Paula wants to choose to go to dinner, but Cris says another time, and Paula gets a little miffed when Estrella gives Cris one of her sexy sendoffs.

Mau-contented is at home, sitting on his bed, crying like a baby. Conniver Connie comes in to cuddle and comfort. In Mau’s weakened state, he can’t resist her kisses, she gently pushes him back onto the bed, and……it’s morning. Uh-oh!

In the office, Paula is wondering why Moni was quiet all the way in to work. Moni relates how Mau sort of broke up with her because of the lies. Pau isn’t surprised, saying if Moni were Pinocchio, she’d have killed Mau with her nose (si fueras Pinocho lo hubieras matado de un narizaso). Why don’t you tell him the truth? Moni doesn’t know where to begin, she’s just a fool. No, you’re a coward, corrects Pau. Go find him. You musn’t give up (no debes rendirte). She then gives Moni a dicho: No hay mal que por bien jamás su rama endereza (there’s no bad that can’t be fixed by good, literally there’s no bad that with the good never has it’s branches straightened out). And here’s her chance, as Gabi comes in with some papers for Mau to sign. He’s at the racetrack, and Moni takes the papers and leaves with a determined look.

At the track, Mauricio is upset to find he can’t race, because Rolando has gotten him barred from official competition with some phony doctor reports, saying Mau isn’t healthy enough to compete. But Tano tells him he didn’t come to the track in vain (en balde), he’s tense, and some driving will relax him. However, he has a question? How come Constanza asked to wear a racing outfit? Won’t that hurt Moni’s feelings? Mau says Moni’s no longer part of his life, now butt out. And heeeeeeeeeerrre’s …..Connie! She strides up in a blue racing outfit, with lots of white velcro fasteners, helmet under arm, hair blowing in the breeze, fashionable shades completing the look. Hola, guapo, she greets him, planting a big kiss on her big boy.

In the lobby of Grupo Sermeño, Oscar and Jerry are discussing plans gone wrong, when they’re detained by the police! They briefly attempt to flee, but officer Cris puts a stop to that. They’re cuffed and led away for questioning.

A shapely rear protrudes from Mau’s racecar. Moni must not have my horndog instincts, as she arrives with the papers and thinks it’s her boss’s butt. She informs “Mau” about the documents, and is a little surprised when Connie removes helmet, whips off the fire protective cowl, and flips her auburn tresses in triumph. She then stuns Moni with the news that Mau and she spent last night together. Did you sleep together, asks Moni? Well, we didn’t exactly SLEEP, you understand, right? She then sees Mau walk up, and lays another big fat kiss on him right in front of Moni. She says to Mau how nice it is to be novios again, and Mau, just says “Constanza, please”, instead of denying it. Moni gives him the papers to sign, starts to walk away in tears. And guess who’s right there to dry those tears? Randy Rolando!

At first, Moni wants nothing to do with the bum, but when Mauricio asks if Rolu’s bothering her, she changes strategy, and cozies up to Rolu, driving Mau nuts. She says Rolu invited her to ride in the racecar, and since he’s champion, and soooo handsome, she just can’t say no. Steam is coming out of Mau’s ears, as apparently Moni’s going to ride with Rolu and Connie will ride with Mau at the same time.

Oscar and Jerry are defending themselves. What do you mean, they were going to kill Mau? Oscar knows the law, there has to be proof. Meanwhile, Salvador is yelling that they’re guilty. Cris says that Ximena said that Anastasia said they were guilty (yeah, that’ll hold up in court). But Oscar says Anastasia can’t be trusted (why not, she seems so sweet). Meanwhile, Jerry wants them to arrest Salvador.

Ximania’s tripping out on the stains on the ceiling of Estrella’s apartment. One of them looks like a car. Ximmy and Estre are both hoping Moni and Mau will get together. Ximmy pictures them kissing right on top of the office desk! Yeah, but you know what? says Estre. They’ve already kissed. Who already kissed? demands Beto, entering on cue. Today his shirt says “boy toy with batteries”.

Oscar again demands proof. An officer enters, hands Cris an envelope. Is this the proof? Jerry looks nervous. Cris says they’re free to go. Huh? Seems Anastasia’s real name is Pedro!! Oscar and Salvador both look as if they’re going to barf. Cris adds that the suspect was defrauding octogenarians in Monterrey!

Meanwhile, Anastasia/Pedro is combing her/his hair in the break room with Paula. Paula’s mad, because Ana makes substandard cappuccino. Cris bursts in, gun pointed at Ana, he’s discovered her secret! Cris must have Crisco on his hands, because Ana snatches the gun away with ease, and points it at poor Pau. Pau pleads with her not to shoot, adding that really, her cappuccinos were quite delicious.

In response to Beto’s question, “who already kissed?”, Estrella puts Beto’s fears to rest, they were talking about Moni and Beto kissing when they reconcile. Right, adds Ximmy, she pictures them kissing in the woods under the light of the moon. The kisses will be much better than Beto’s kisses with….With whom? (con quien) inquires Estrella. (Remember, the word for with is “con”). Ximmy says, con, con, Con….and almost lets it slip, but Beto says con La Monita, and Ximmy nervously confirms this. Estrella doesn’t believe this, but Beto isn’t talking, and when Estre tells Ximmy to come clean (desembuchar), Ximmy lies back on the sofa looking at the ceiling stains again. An airplane? A strawberry daiquiri? Ah, well, Estrella’s not getting any answers today.

Beto runs into Costeño in the street, who says Don Cesar has a fight for Moni tomorrow, and it pays a lot. The two go off to discuss it with Don Cesar.

Ana/Pedro has Pau’s arm behind her back, gun to the head, as she/he leads her out into the main office. Even as two other officers and Cris train guns on her/him (where did Cris get another gun?), Ana's not deterred. (She’s like a caged Ana-mal, if you ask me). She’s getting out of here, or Paula dies. Gabi pleads, kill me instead. Salvador approaches, tells Paula to stay calm. Cris suddenly yells out “Pedro”, and Salvador grabs the gun, and saves the day! Gabi’s impressed. Paula has to go the bathroom.

And we’re back. At the track. Moni’s about to go on the attack. She’s now sporting a black version of the girl racer outfit, zipping up, asking if Mau likes it. He says she’s never looked better. But she wants him to swear he didn’t sleep with Connie. Ever slow on the uptake, our galán tries to process the question through his limited brain cells.

Ana is screaming that Oscar and Jerónimo hired her to get Mau’s fortune, but Cris isn’t listening, and hustles our handcuffed hussy into the elevator. She gives the crowd a final air kiss.

So, did Mauricio tell Moni he didn’t sleep with Connie? (I actually think he didn’t). Nope, he just asks Moni, who told you, Constanza? Moni gets indignant, and Mau can barely get another word in. He resorts to ordering Moni back to work, as her boss. Bad move.

In the oficina, Gabi’s ribbing the guys. Tell me Oscar, tell me Sal, how WAS it kissing Pedro? After they leave, Gabi’s feeling pretty good about herself, as Ana’s gone, and she’s still standing.

It’s time for the race, as both Mau and Rolu help their respective ladies get their helmets and gloves on, and boost them into the cars through the windows. Connie tells Mau to leave ‘em in the dust (hazlos morder el polvo, which really means to make them bite the dust). Moni’s nervous, wants to get out of Rolu’s car, but he won’t hear of it. Tano waves the green flag, and they’re off. (But what is the point of this? I thought the girls just wanted to go for a ride. Does driving faster really prove someone’s more macho? Isn’t this a little juvenile?) As usual, the camera angles make it completely impossible to figure out what’s going on, but once again, Mau’s car spins out, and I guess he’s going to say Rolu caused it. At least he didn’t crash this time.

After the commercial, the guys jump out and start pushing each other, Mau accusing Rolu, Rolu smirking, as Moni gravitates to Mau, causing Connie to tell her to let go of her boyfriend. This enrages Moni, who starts to attack Connie. Mau restrains her.

Over at the private school, the three Heathers surprise Luisa by being nice to her. They even want to hang out with her in the coffee shop in the park later. We can’t tell if they’re sincere or not.

Rolu has walked Monita back to her neighborhood, and she’s grateful for that, but really wants nothing further to do with him. He wants more, of course, asks her out, after all, she’s his co-pilot, but she refuses, even gets in a boxing stance to make her point. He tells her she doesn’t know what she’s missing, blows her a kiss, as Ximena observes in the background.

In the office, Mauricio is a little short with Connie, but she calms him down, starts massaging his shoulders, tells him she doesn’t love him because he’s a handsome millionaire, but because he’s a sensitive guy, and beneath it all, still a little boy. He agrees, he’s a little boy that anyone can fool. She continues to be nice, won’t bother him at work, wants to check on the kids. She leaves with a smile, her strategy is finally working!

Moni’s feeling guilty, telling Estrella how she treated Mau horribly. She’s lost him forever, might as well return to work. In bursts Ximmy, still wearing the glasses, who do you think you lost forever, taradupidita! (Ximmy speak for stupid moron). She thinks Moni’s actually after Rolu. Moni says sure, him, the butcher and the mechanic around the corner, and leaves. Ximmy tells Estre she’s in favor of sexual freedom, and that corner mechanic is cute, but not her Rolu! Estre tells her to forget Rolu and let’s read some fashion mags. Ximmy’s cool with that.

But now Nieves was eavesdropping, mad as hell that Moni would go after so many men, Rolando, even the mechanic! This has to end.

Bad boy Beto picks up a coin, it’s his lucky day. No, actually two boys were playing rayuela (sort of like hopscotch, or pitch and toss), it’s their coin. He claims finders keepers, but after a bit of kicking, he grudgingly tosses it back to them (over their heads). His mom rushes out, what are you doing fighting with boys, when La Monita is putting the horns on you with Rolando? Beto gets mad, and our Raging Bull marches off to obtain justice. He’ll question Moni, and if it’s true, he’ll kill her! Nieves worries about her little darling, it’s more likely Moni would kill him.

Gabi is informing Mau and Sal that they have to hire another person, and maybe this time, they could check the criminal record, no? She knows Sal’s hormones got the better of his judgment. After Gabi leaves, Sal admits to Mau that it was true. Mau says he understands, when one is in love, one disregards the consequences. Sal protests, he wasn’t in love, but Mau knows, he wasn’t talking about Sal.

Ivan rented a dvd, a love story, and wants to watch it with Luisa. But she can’t, she has to study. And later she’s meeting her new girlfriends from school for an ice cream. Ivan offers to go with her, but she thinks her new friends are somewhat “selective”, and he immediately knows it’s the class thing again, he’s the cook’s grandson. She denies it, but he’s not so sure.

At work, Moni’s spritzing the door with cleaning solution, as Beto bumbles in, only to be spritzed in the face. This temporary blinding doesn’t stop him from accusing Moni of cheating on him. She was seen kissing Rolando. Of course Mauricio just happens to be listening at the door at this exact moment, hears this, and of course, leaves before anything further is said. Paula’s there, too. Inside the coffee room, Moni tells Beto he’s nuts if he thinks she has anything to do with Rolando, the next time he accuses her, she’ll punch him out. Beto hears her, but hold the punches for tomorrow, he’s lined up a fight for her. Moni thinks one day isn’t time enough to train, but Beto says it’ll be pan comida since she already beat the gal once – one Ana María Torre – La Guerrera. Moni’s not sure, as Paula enters to inform Beto that Gabi wants him. Think about it, Moni, he says, as he leaves.

Paula tells Moni that Mau heard some of the bit about Rolando. Moni decides to bring Mau some coffee and be nice to calm him down. He’s furious, and when she comes in, sweet as sugar, he angrily grabs a magazine and starts reading, can’t even look at her. She asks what he’s reading. Just an article. She says he might get more out of it, if he weren’t holding the magazine upside down! Anyway, she wants to clear up what he may have heard through the door. He doesn’t want to listen, but she continues, Rolando just took her home, she’d never hurt Mau, especially with his worst enemy, he has to believe her, believe in her, she says, leaning closer. Please leave, is his response, and she sadly does.

Mau calls Connie. Let’s have dinner tonight in the Blue Danube Restaurant. She’s delighted. She hangs up, and we see she’s having lunch with Oscar and Jerry. Oscar has an idea. Moni should also be at the Blue Danube. Connie’s initially appalled, but Oscar whispers his plan, and there are smiles all around.

Paula and Beto want to clear up a few things in front of Gabi, Sal and Cris. Paula says she broke up with Beto, but he says he broke up with HER. Why, she was fooling around with this mequetrefe (good for nothing), pointing to Cris. Cris gets mad, and they push Paula back and forth between them a few times until it’s time for a fight! The two roll around on the floor, as Gabi leaves, she’s not into watching lovers’quarrels.

And now it’s time for our funniest scene. Connie’s going to try to sound as “naca” as possible. She dials Rolu on her cell, and says What’s shakin’, Rolando, it’s Monita” in an overdone, sing-songy voice. He thinks her voice sounds different over the phone, but she continues, using all the street expressions (while cringing with the effort). She wants to eat dinner at the Blue Danube, and later, go to his house for dessert, sprinkling in “neta” (the truth), “sale” (okay), “órale” (okay, or right?), to enhance the effect. Rolu buys the act, is looking forward to his dessert, he’ll see her at the restaurant. Connie’s disgusted at having to talk like that, treats the phone as if it had cooties. Good job, says Oscar, now for the second part of the plan.

And after the commercial, we have another voice transformation. Luisa is now trying to sound superfresa, telling her amiguita Mayra they’ll meet in the cóle (short for colegio or school). She doesn’t have a “celu” (short for cellular), maybe she’ll buy one. Aldo comes in, shocked to hear her Valley Girl voice, grabs the phone and hangs up. They start arguing, Mauricio comes in, she tells him she needs a cell phone, all her friends have them. Mauricio asks her to calm down, go to her room, they’ll talk in a minute, and she leaves, pushing Aldo, calling him “naco”. Aldo’s so mad he wants to kill Luisa, but Mau, as usual, says violence never solves anything, and he’ll talk to the kids, but for now, he has to get ready to go out. With Moni? asks Aldo. No, and he doesn’t want to hear that name again (yeah, right).

Said Moni is weeping on her cama, Estrella providing tissues from a roll of toilet paper, saying they could power the entire vecindad with all her waterworks. Mauricio doesn’t love me anymore! The phone rings, though, and Estrella says to answer it. And it is Mau, saying Monita, I need you. You need me? We switch to the other end of the conversation, and Oscar’s holding a little tape recorder! He taped Mau (earlier and apparently just now when he asked Connie out to dinner), and is using the tape to pretend to have Mau ask Moni out to the same restaurant. And it works! Oscar and Jerry have Cheshire Cat grins, and so do we, the audience, as another funny episode comes to a close.

Previews: Paula tells Gabi that Moni’s a boxer, with Jerry listening in, and Beto confronts Rolando, how come my future wife is going around with you? Mauricio’s standing right there. Your future WHAT?!

Vocabulario:

Un narizaso – hitting with your nose. You can add azo (or aso) to lots of words to mean a hit with the object. For example, a punch is a puñetazo (puño means fist)
Desembuchar – to come clean about something, let out the truth
Rayuela – Mexican street game, like pitch and toss, or hopscotch
Mequetrefe – a good for nothing

Dicho:
No hay mal que por bien jamás su rama endereza – the good drives out the bad, literally there’s nothing so bad that can’t have its branches straightened out by the good. I didn't realize it, but Paula actually combined the following two dichos:
No hay mal que por bien no venga - There's no bad from which good can't come, and
Árbol torcido, jamás su rama endereza - A twisted tree never straightens its branch

Labels: gancho

Readers: I will not be able to do the recap next week. Will someone out there sub for me? Thanks.

Flor heads to Purification in a taxi and tells Fer that she’ll be there in about half an hour. She’ll get there and as soon as she does Fer wants her to call. The cab driver is flattered when Flor calls him “joven.” With that encouragement, he steps on the gas.

Steve talks with Camilo and Venus. Venus tells him that Barbara is making all the arrangements for the party. They are going to invite everyone Camilo knows in his personal and business life to the party announcing their engagement. Camilo takes his leave and says goodbye to “tio” Steve. Venus gives Cam a hot kiss and asks him to call her. Steve has a fit with Venus. He tells her Camilo is not only a parasite, but irresponsible and abusive to women and those who cannot fight back like Jacinto. She says she’ll keep that in mind. Editor: What is Venus plotting? Maybe she’ll do a strip dance at the big shindig and invite her friends from the cantina. Wouldn’t that be cute.

Barb gives little Rocio at the country house instructions to leave with the maid when the work is done. Barb flashes back to the day that she pushed Rosendo down the hill. The maid is finished and Barb gives her a tip.

Aurora is knitting at the convent. She talks to the nun who went on that little adventure with her. They are very remorseful for having told Mother Superior so many lies. The nun wants to know what she talked to the man about. Aurora tells her Barbara Elizalde. Aurora doesn’t understand why she was released. She now knows that Barbara is very interested in her and it worries her.

Damian gives an envelope to Barb with half the money in it. Barbara calls him an imbecile and he tells her that the only way to get Aurora is by force. He curses the nuns. If she wants, he’ll go back to get Aurora. Barb says no. Damian says let’s not let this trip be in vain. We’ll succeed. Editor: So, he is his old dastardly self working Barb like she’s worked him.

Aurora tells the nun about her relationship with Barb. They wonder what will happen if Aurora doesn’t go. The nun wants to pray. Aurora tells the nun that if he wanted to do her damage it would have happened. It’s all up to Barbara to get me out of here.

Barb threatens Damian some more and decides that she’ll go talk to Aurora herself. Damian smiles his sweet Cheshire cat smile.

Editor: OK, readers, do you think Damian has turned over a new leaf? Nah, this grifter sees that there is money to be made here, and he’s getting in line for his share.

Meanwhile Flor’s taxi has a flat tire and she is stranded on the highway. I did not see this coming

Vlad is following Pris in the garage. She tells him to get in the car. They roll the windows down so we can hear better. She tells him he doesn’t listen and is complicating the situation. He says he’s afraid for her and for the child. He’s afraid that Ani will not comply with his word. Once again he states his paternal rights. She says we can’t talk like this. Vlad is visibly disturbed. She tries to calm him down because it’s not good for the baby. Pris is disgusted with him. He says the only reason she came to him was to get pregnant. But, he’ll forgive her and not be bitter, but what he needs and loves most in this life is that his child is not taken from him. He wants her to swear. Pris cries.

Erika shows the invitations to Steve and Franco. Franco leaves the room. Erika asks a big favor of Steve and says her wedding with Franco depends upon it.

Steve asks Erika what she’s talking about. She tells Steve about Father Bosco’s failure to give them a copy of Franco’s Baptismal Certificate. She says that what she has in mind is simple.

Gardenia is manning the front counter again. Fer asks her about papa – gone; Anibal – gone; Barbara – gone. Fer shows Gardenia a sample of possible career paths. Gardenia of course doesn’t know how to answer. Fer tells her that she will acquire security and that she has to give reality to her dreams.

Pris assures Vlad that he has nothing to worry about. Ani will respect his paternity and that his pride and desire to punish her and humiliate her by making her infidelity public drives him onward. It doesn’t matter to her, but to Vlad it does. They are both crying. Vlad has the solution to make Anibal tow the line and humiliate her no more.

Speaking of the devil, Anibal drives up and sees Pris and Vlad talking in the car. Vlad is investigating and is going to try to prove that he’s the father of the child and that they can beat Anibal. Anibal looks like the devil himself because he knows these two are up to no good. Anibal drives away.

Pris says that Vlad is right but tests to prove paternity can be very dangerous. He wants to make sure that nothing happens to the baby and he wants Anibal to know that the two of them are ready to fight for the child. Editor: I’m getting sucked in by the tears welling up in the eyes of this pair. I wonder if is Pris being more sympathetic towards Vlad or is it my imagination.

Back at the taxi, Flor is on the road again. They finally arrive near the convent. None other than Barb is getting out of her gas guzzling SUV. Flor tells the driver to put on the breaks. She doesn’t want Barb to see her. The taxi backs up down the street.

Barb knocks and a nun answers. Barb says she wants to see Aurora. The nun runs to Aurora and tells her that the stepmother is there to visit her. Aurora tells her that they are going to see Mother Superior.

Flor has to offer the cab driver a good tip to continue.

Aurora asks Mother Superior for permission to see Barb. Mother Superior agrees and Aurora asks to see Barb in her room. Mother agrees.

Fer says she has to see somebody in person and will wait in her office.

Flor calls and tells Fer that she couldn’t do the job because Barbara arrived at the convent at the same time. Flor says don’t worry, Barb didn’t see me, but Flor is terrified. Fer tells Flor to return so that Barb won’t see her. Why does Barb go to see Aurora? Fer muses.

Barb goes into Aurora’s room. With catlike maternal pride, she says “Aurora, daughter, how pretty you are.”

Erika and her co conspirator, Steve, plan to visit a museum tomorrow. Conveniently, Franco’s cell rings. It’s Fer. He says you aren’t interrupting anything. She would like to see him in her office and she knows exactly where Barb is. Franco takes his leave and says he has to go to Lactos. Dear Erika tells him not to get too distracted. Franco looks at the two of them quizzically. Steve and Erika are going to Villa Madera apparently to get the papers needed for the wedding.

Aurora flatters Barb and tells her how happy she is to see her. Barb eats it up and asks about the baby. Good, says Aurora. It’s not moving yet. Barb lies and says she’s never touched the belly of a pregnant woman. She reaches out to touch Aurora and a tear trickles down her cheek. She offers her help. Aurora asks why did you order my removal from here.

Pris says hello to Gardenia. Anibal is in and Pris goes to his office. Pris tells Anibal that they have to talk right away.

Editor: At this point Pris could tell Anibal the truth, or she could make up a lie. In either case, Anibal is holding the trump card.

Aurora wants to know why Barb sent those people. Barb says she was afraid that Aurora wouldn’t talk to her because she might think that all the Elizaldes were all the same. She asks if Aurora hates her. Aurora says no. Barb says that what she did was very bad. She didn’t give Aurora time to explain. Camilo told her what happened and that she knows that Aurora is innocent. Aurora wants to know what Camilo said.

Barb tells her about the drug, but says now there is an opportunity to repair all the damage. Aurora wants to know about Santiago. Barb says that Santiago will never forgive his brother and Aurora says that’s what she thought, too. Barb wants Aurora to know something else. Gonzo is very sick and Camilo is his favorite child (consentido). Barb wants her to give birth to the baby in secret with just Santiago and her. Barb wants her to go with her on a trip so that she can take care of her and the baby. What’s your answer? Break.

Pris tells Anibal that Vlad suspects that they will not comply with their word and that Vlad wants a paternity test. Anibal is not going to let that imbecile interfere with his plans and that he will do whatever it takes to stop Vlad.

Aurora tells Barb that she wants to wait a while. Barb tells her to take however much time she needs. Aurora says she’s a little confused. Barb understands perfectly and caresses Aurora. She says that she hopes that one day Aurora will forgive her. There is no hurry, you can give me a reply when you want. Barb wants to visit her daily but she understands she can’t. One last favor. says Barb, I beg you that when I come to look for you please receive me. Don’t refuse me. Aurora nods, yes. Barb thanks her.

Camilo is having a fit over the news Fer is giving him about the division of his father’s wealth. He says he’ll never change his mind. Fer says that this transfer will be convenient to them.

After all the drama between Barb and Aurora, we’re back at Lactos. Flor arrives and Gardenia starts to fill her in on the gossip. Before they can get going, Franco enters and tells Gardenia that he has an appointment with Fernando. Flor and Gardenia fight over who will give Fer the message. So, they both try to call. Flor tells Fer that she’s back and that Franco is there to see her. Camilo says so what about the rest of this conversation? Sorry, I have to talk to Franco. With Franco present, Fer repeats the story of Gonzo’s division of property. Franco says that it was he who suggested that his father make this division of wealth. Another break.

At Villa Madero, Erika talks to Chelsea and sets up a coffee date for tomorrow. Padre Arcadio enters and asks what he can do for them. Erika introduces Steve as her fiancées best friend. She tells the priest that Franco lost his Baptismal Certificate. She retells her conversation with Padre Bosco. Steve is willing to swear that his friend has been baptized. He calls the secretary and tells her to take the information (datos) to issue the copy. Erika begins giving her the information.

Aurora goes to see Mother Superior.

Barb drives onward with a big smile on her face.

Yes, says Franco, it sounds absurd that such a transfer will be beneficial to them. Gonzo is an old man, his company fears that if he dies his interests will pass to all the children, people that Power Milk doesn’t know. So, says, Camilo, give Lactos as a gift to make your guys happy. No says, Franco – it will establish stability. Power Milk will amend it’s contract with a stipulation that 100% will ultimately go to the heirs of Gonzola Elizalde – they’ll end up with double. Fer hopes he understands completely her father’s decision. Editor: It’s kind of hard to do the math here, and I don’t think Camilo is any better at multiplication than I am.

Avances: Aurora is a great point of interest. Steve tells Franco that he has to cancel his wedding with Erika.

Labels: manana

And I think we’ve only just passed the mile 1 marker. (Episode 42, according to the esmas.com summaries.) An alternate title I considered was “This Episode Brought to You by PSAs ‘R Us”, because this episode seemed pretty heavy on the public service announcements, but maybe that’s just me.


Camila’s telling Romina that not supporting her in this (the crazy idea that Emiliano must marry her) is the best way for her to show her love.

In the hospital cafeteria Emiliano says he can’t marry Romina and his dad agrees. A marriage without love isn’t the solution. E thinks maybe Romina believes that if she doesn’t marry E, nobody will want her. Rafa says that when a man loves for realsies, nothing will get in the way of it (or something like that). Emiliano declares that he has to be honest with her, even if she ends up hating him.

Carlota and Rufi are in the kitchen discussing Romina. Carlota points out how she’s always said that Romina was very badly brought up and things would be different if Camila had been strict with her. Rufi comments that Camilia spoiled Romina and Carlota says that it was the same thing when Paloma lived with her parents. Rufi also mentions that Romina hired a detective to look for her father and that she found out he came back to Mexico; Carlota, who has approached Rufi while holding a big knife, which makes Rufi nervous, is surprised that a man who disappeared years ago could be found and seems to be very interested in the idea.

Back at the hospital Camila thanks Macarena for coming and Paloma asks Cami to tell Romina that she loves her. Rafael also takes his leave, offering to accompany Camila to the cafeteria, but she says no.

Emiliano tells Romina that getting married isn’t the answer, and he’s sure he didn’t make her do anything. Besides, she was the one who was pushing from the very beginning for them to have sex, and what for, so she could get him as a husband? She weeps that she LOVES him, forever, etc. Emiliano apologizes that he doesn’t feel the same way so he can’t marry her, then beats a hasty retreat.

Macarena and Paloma return home and Rufi insists that they have something to eat, adding that Carlota wants to see them.

Romina has a flashback of her night with Emiliano--he mumbles “Paloma, I’ve loved you since we met.” Romina says that he has to love Romina, she is the one who loves him, Paloma doesn’t love him. He just looks at her in disgust, “you’re not Paloma” and turns over--She swears that if he doesn’t marry her, he isn’t going to marry Paloma, not ever.

Emiliano confesses to Camila about how he doesn’t remember much from that night with Romina. Lucky for him, Camila doesn’t think marriage is the answer either. He admits that he tried to love Romi and cares for her, but that isn’t AMOR. Cami advises that if he can’t love Romi it’s better for him to stay away from her.

Paloma talks to Rufi how she feels very bad, she got mad at God and said he was unfair to her; she wants to go to church to confess, and Rufi offers to go with her.

Macarena tells Carlota about Camila’s offer of a gift/loan for Paloma to go to college. No way, declares Carlota, I’m not going to allow people to humiliate us by giving us charity. I won’t allow Paloma to be indebted to anyone. Mac counters that it’s the only way for Pal to study. Well, she doesn’t study then, says Carlota. Over my dead body will a single peso from that woman enter this house.

Camila calls Angelica to inform her about Romina’s suicide attempt, and Liliana overhears this little chat. Camila desperately begs Angelica to help her.

Diana goes to the beauty salon to get a new hairdo, she wants a radical change. The hairdresser says lots of women in her situation do the same thing. In my situation? Yes, they call it the divorcee syndrome, they change their look, they go to the gym, etc. Diana claims that’s not the case with her and rolls her eyes (as do we, at her).

Orlando is telling Padre Juan/Cris about running into Gudelia (Diana); Cris opines that maybe it’s his destiny, so he could finally know what happened with his son. Just then, what a coinky-dink, said son (we think) calls with the news about Romina. After hanging up he fills Cris in on the suicide attempt. They continue their conversation--Cris wonders if Orly is sure Gudelia doesn’t mean anything to him. Orlando admits he was affected by the encounter, but isn’t interested in her.

Liliana calls German to give him the news about Romina and that she knows that Emiliano is interested in Paloma (because Lili told Romina that she saw Emiliano kissing Paloma).

Paloma and Padre Cris are sitting in the pews, talking. He understands that sometimes we rebel against what God has in store for us--he did so himself once. Paloma likes how he explains things and comments that it’s so easy to talk to him. He mentions that they have a friend in common, Natalia. Pal asks how they know each other and he just replies that they go way back. Paloma likes that she and Cris have something in common (ha--she doesn’t know the half of it!), it makes her feel closer to him, and they hug, complete with a slo-mo effect and dramatic music so that we know that this is muy, pero MUY, importante.

Emiliano approaches Paloma as she leaves the church. She still thinks it’s her fault Romina tried to kill herself. Emil tells her no, and she asks if it’s because he broke up with Romina? Meanwhile, Rufi is waiting nearby and is rendered completely impactada when she sees Padre Cris, crying "It’s him, it’s him!” and “no puede ser!” (twice).

Emiliano tries to convince Paloma she doesn’t have any reason to feel bad. But she said I was going to regret what I did to her, I allowed us to kiss. Emil replies that he kissed her by force and is so in love with her he didn’t consider the consequences. Once again, Pal asks him not to say he loves her. Anyway, Emiliano says their kiss didn’t cause all this, it’s that he can’t marry Romina, he doesn’t love her even though they (supposedly) slept together. He mentions that he and Romina weren’t novios when it happened. Paloma thought they had gotten back together, she saw them kissing, but Emil says things aren’t how they seem. Paloma thinks he has to answer to Romi--Emil says he’s not going to marry without love.

Romina plots in her hospital room--this has to have served for something. Emiliano’s not going to leave my side whether he likes it or not. She suddenly thinks, Diana! She’ll help me out. She leaves a message for Diana to call her back.

Emiliano’s still talking, telling Paloma that he doesn’t care if she was with Inaki or not, he loves her as she is. She says they didn’t sleep together, and Emiliano replies that he wouldn’t have cared if they had, because she isn’t worth more or less than Romina because of that. He hopes that one day Romina finds someone who loves her as she is. Paloma points out that Romina wants him to be that man, and he asks “what I feel doesn’t matter?” He repeats that he can’t marry Romi, he only wants to marry Paloma. As Paloma leaves, she has a flashback to the time before she was about to get married, when Romi told her that she had slept with Emiliano. Then she runs into Rufi, who she notes looks like she saw a ghost.

Orlando is at the hospital with Camila--he says she should have called, we’re a couple. Camila looks like “HUH?” She doesn’t think they’re a couple--they're just friends, getting to know one another. Orlando is all annoyed, he wants them to have a formal relationship. Just then Angelica arrives so they go off to talk.

Padre Cris warns Emiliano about the dangers of alcohol. Emil protests that he’s not an alcoholic, but just one night of getting drunk was enough to make a huge mistake. Cris says it’s as if we want to anesthetize ourselves, our feelings. That’s what I wanted, to not feel, says Emiliano, and look at the consequences. Unfortunately, laments Cris, we can’t change the past---what happened, happened. Emiliano vows not to drink like that again, he doesn’t want to hurt anyone.

Camila is telling Angelica how Emiliano’s and Romina’s versions of their night together differ, and she thinks Romi is the one who’s lying. Camila cries that she didn’t do something right, she made a mistake in Romi’s upbringing and doesn’t know how to fix it. Angelica says she can’t give her the answer, but they can start therapy to analyze all of this. Cami wants Romina to stop lying, but how does she get her to participate in therapy? The only way to influence her is with your attitude, Angelica replies. The change has to come from you first.

Romina is getting ready to leave the hospital when German comes by for a visit. He asks why is she clinging to something that can’t be and wants to know why she made Emiliano think she was a virgin when he (German) was her first. She laughs it off and kisses him just as Camila comes in. After Germy leaves, Cami says she doesn’t like their friendship. Romi boo-hoos that he’s one of only a few friends she has left since she lost Pal and Emil. And sometimes I even feel I’ve lost you--you’re never on my side. A flower delivery arrives--surely they’re from Emiliano, Romi declares. When she sees that they’re from Orlando, she throws them on the floor and stomps out. For sure that'll make Camila want to take your side now, Romina.

Paloma tells Macarena about Padre Juan (Cris) and how he knows Natalia, and Mac remarks on what a small world it is. She tries to get Rufi’s attention but the latter is still in a stupor over seeing Padre Juan earlier--she finally comes to and wants to talk with Mac later. Mac then mentions to Pal that Carlota flipped out about Camila giving her money for college, and Pal insists on talking to her alone.

German thanks Liliana for telling him about Romina. She scoffs, you dummy, I did it to make you see that Romi doesn’t love you, never will. Lili laments that she still loves him.

Diana thinks back to running into Orlando and vows, “you’re not going to find me. Emiliano can’t continue working with you, you can’t have any relationship with him.”

Rufi mops the patio while telling herself, it can’t be him, he’s dead, surely I made a mistake. No puede ser.

Paloma tries to explain to Carlota that’s she’ll be able to pay Camila back, but Carlota doesn’t think so. To become indebted to someone is like selling your soul to the devil (and she certainly would know about that, wouldn’t she?). Carlota claims that she’s really sorry Pal’s parents left her penniless, but that’s her reality.

Rafa and Camila on the phone--he wants her to know that she’s not alone. She thanks him, saying she felt his sympathy at the hospital. He reminds her he’s just a call away.

Carlota’s still yelling at Paloma, who insists that she’s not going to give up on what she wants. I think she says that the program she wants to study at the public university is full and she’ll have to wait over a year to get in, so in the meantime she can go to a private university using the loan from Camila. Carlota thinks she should just wait--she can dedicate herself to painting or the ladies’ church group. Paloma insists that she’s not going to stay in Real del Monte, she’s leaving as soon as she turns 18 and then she’ll just work while she waits to get into the university. Carlota accuses Pal of wanting to leave just so no one can control her. Paloma’s response is that she wants is to be free and independent.

Diana arrives at Camila’s and before going up to see Romina, asks if Rafa has said anything to Cami about the divorce. No, they only discuss business. Diana hopes Camila can talk to him--she’s been thru a divorce, she knows how it affects kids. And continues affecting them. If Samuel was still here, certainly Romina wouldn’t have done what she did. Camila tries to explain that it had nothing to do with Samuel, but Diana says, well I think it did…kids always need their parents together. Oh, and if Rafael says anything, don’t forget to call me and tell me. As my friend, you have the obligation to tell me everything that happens with him. Poor Camila is left impactada.

In the avances, Diana and Romina appear to be scheming up a storm, with Romina playing the victim, telling Paloma that she needs to know if she’s in love with Emiliano, because if she is....

Labels: amor

First off BIG SHOUT OUT to Cap'n Sharkbait for filling in for me in a pinch last night. That was a huge favor and I am eternally grateful.


Beto tells Monita that he wants to take some time before they get married. Mona wonders what got into his brain, who he has been talking to.

Xime in her librarian get up shows up with Coni and try to distract Pau so that Coni can sneak into Mona‘s. Xime talks best friends and the new guy with Pau. We see Coni go in, and she finds what she was looking for, her necklace. When she runs out, who sees her but Mau.

Beto says that he has been in therapy and has learned that he has fear of commitment. Mona is confused for sure. She tells Estre what happened and wonders if maybe she was involved somehow.

Anastasia has learned the fine art of workin it for more money and she thinks these guys are boobs and she deserves more money if they expect her to have anything to do with Sal. Jero leaves and Oski takes the opportunity to tell her he will only take 10 minutes of her time and well, that leaves her time for him. She is on his lap showing off about all she can nuzzling with him when Gabi walks in on them. Oski swears it ain’t what it seems. Heh!.

Coni turns the tables on Mau and instead of him wondering what she is doing there he thinks maybe she followed him and she sees her out with him. He doesn’t flinch to her complaints though, he brought Moni home after something bad happened at the office. Coni runs off saying he’s treating her so bad, and she’s not going to stick around for it.

Mau asks Mona to come to the school ot speak to the director with him. They kiss goodbye and Estr comes out of the woodwork to point out how wifey talking to the kids school is.

Aldo and Lu go to school remarking how they don’t fit in and everything sucks.

Mau and Mona show up at the school, Mona is in her librarian look, a little more sexy than Xime’s. She promises Mau she’ll take care of that Maestra, but he reminds her violence is not the way, check it at the door sister. Ok so now we see some whitebread chicas laughing and picking on Lu.

Christian tries to get Paula’s stats. He asks if she has a boyfirend, and deduces that she is marrying Beto because of some pressure. He tells her whenever she’s ready, he’ll be waiting for her. She says to herself after he’s gone that she always dreamed of a husband who has a bullet proof vest.

Eventually the silly girls address Lu and remind her that even though Mau has adopted her she’s still a measly orphan, and they throw on drink on her. Mona to the rescue, she grabs the blond chic and requires her to apologize or else she’ll get lickins. Blond chic resists, but get the fist in face.

We see Oski again trying to minimalize the hottie that was attached to his lap earlier. Gabi says fuggedaboutit and doesn’t play into him. Chris comes up to exert his securitized self and requires Oski to leave her a lone and go away. She doesn’t want him to grope her.

Back at school Moni still yanks on blondie until Mau comes up and asks her que the hell is she doing? He tells her to let go.

Gabi and Chris chat, and he asks more about Pau and learns Beto is the boyfriend. He looks him up and down as Beto sweeps.

Mau yells at Mona for her lack of propriety, that she just can’t go woman handle young girls, she thinks they shouldn’t be allowed to be so mean, but Mau counters she can’t follow Lu everywhere. Mona wants to though until those stuck ups respect Lu. Mona asks why he brought her, he knows how she is. Mau takes the kids home and tells Lu to ignore those girls, and anyway once they get to know her, they will be charmed. Lu just wants out.

Chris arrests Beto.

Nieves finds Mona upset and guesses she fought with the guapo. Essentially she tells Mona she loves her as a adaughter, and to watch out for those high falootin’ types, they may be too different and these things never turn out well. She doesn’t want Mona hurt.

Chris begins his interrogation of Beto, and spills that he’s after Pau and that she deserves better, Beto at the point of suffocation will agree she is great. Chris warns him he better make her happy.

Mau shows up at Mona’s she has apparently thought over Nieves admonishment and she tells Mau he’s up here and she is down here and so they have nothing in common and he’ll tire of her and go back to Mummy, and tells him to leave.

Jero wonders with Oski why they are such boobs. Oski is more confident. Sal interrupts the pity fest and comes to introduce Jero’s new personal assistant chosen by the president. Enter Xime, she offers a coffee, tea, etc. Oski gives her a letter to write. She wonders if “Querida” is with a large K, she says it is the first word.

Coni bonds with Lu over the abuse the chicas dished out. She decides she has to do something for her., treat he how to be the bad chic.

Mau is pissed off at Mona’s audacity. He says they are the same, and he’s mad that she never cared how much he loves her. She catches that word and asks him if he loves her. He screams it to the heavens, He loves Valentina!!!!!

After the break he yells at her for never realizing that he loves her so much and for playing so many games. He’s sick of them and walks out. She tells him she loves him too, but after he’s gone from the room.

Gabi is “chatting” with Ana about dumming down the slut strut while she’s here. Ana is happy Gabi is so mad and she gets an idea after Gabi tells her not to put anything in her cappuccino or she'll go straight to jail.

At the apartments Beto yells at Pau for ratting him out to Chris and wants her to call him off. She would like nothing better than to marry Christian Bermudez, but she made a PROMISE, you know one of those things he's never done. They argue about telling Chris the truth and Mona won't even find out, Pau won't but thinks Beto should instead. Estre overhears and tells them to stop arguing and reminds them Mona lied to keep them all employed, so they shouldn't undermine her. Beto gets mad and somehow decides maybe he should just tell Mau everything. Estre is unable to convince him otherwise as he marches off.

Coni gives Lu lessons on being a first class lying stuck up beatch snot. Aldo overhears and can't contain himself as he tells Coni to knock it off and that Lu should be proud of her roots. He doesn't get to far, the adolescent urge to belong is stronger on Lu and she knows being shallow is the way to go, so she walks off with Coni, ah another casualty for now. Aldo looks on in disgust.

Back at the office, Jero is milkshaking Xime again for who knows what when Ana burst in that she can't take anymore of this crazyness and not to even tell her it's worth it to inherit Mau's money. Xime over hears this and freaks out that they are going to murder Mau. She runs out of the office, and they all run after her.


We go over to the barrio where Estre passes up the chance to let Pau use her cell because of what she did to Mona. Mona appears hears and wonder what Pau said. Estre tells her Beto went off to the jefe to tell him everything. She goes off running.



Well I missed something here because of my reception, all I saw was Teresa's face, then we cut to Chris showing up and wanting smooches from Pau. Estre meets him. Just then Xime comes running up begging for protection.

At the slick house Beto tells Mau he has something to tell him and that he's betrayed him and needs to tell him the truth. Coni overhears this and thinks he's going to tell about them and tells him that Dani locked herself in the room and won't respond. He runs off and she warns Beto not a single word. He doesn't know what she's talking about.



In the room Dani says she did no such thing, she only said she was busy and she makes her famous stick tounge face. Coni can't believe she's calling her a liar but Mau says we're not going to argue about a misunderstanding.

Mona shows up while Beto is waiting and she does the same thing as Coni, warns Beto to keep his mouth closed. Mau comes out and wonders whay she is there. She of course lies, and Beto agrees that maybe instead they will talk tomorrow. Beto goes off and Mona stands there alone. She gets ready to leave when Mau all of a sudden grows a brain. He says not so fast, we have to chat. Does she play him for stupid? Well maybe not but we sure do...anyway he knows she convinced Beto not to say anything, and basically he doesn't know her, she's so full of lies. He said he would fight to be with her no matter what and she remembers that was a day she thought was a dream, he says well it's a nightmare because that was another women who would be honest with him. Funny how he has this radar with her but not with Coni....

And that's it...thanks for waiting.

Labels: gancho