Caray, Caray!

As we begin, Artemio Bravo has been getting his evil jollies admitting to Gonzalo, his captive audience of one, that not only is he Gonzo’s bastard half-brother, but that Art has been the e-e-e-vile genius behind all the Elizalde’s misfortunes lo these past fifteen years; and that it was he who had Monserrat murdered at the hands of none other than Gonzo’s gorgeous, then assistant and would-be merry widow, Barbara Greco!! Duhn-duhn-duhn-duhhhhn! (The whole of Viewerville gives up a prayer that Gonzo doesn’t kick the bucket before Bravo delivers every dastardly detail.) Gonzo, who is literally struggling-for-breath-impactado from these shocking revelations, manages a “No! No! No!” in disbelief. He squirms in pain as his blood pressure rises to dangerous levels and ugly rivulets of sweat roll off his cheeks and ever-more furrowing forehead.

Bravo continues his taunting tirade. “Liliana told you the whole time but you ignored her. Not only that, you had her locked up in an insane asylum where, under Barbara’s orders, they kept her drugged up for years, killing her spirit, the aim of Dr. Obregon, who would administer them to her. Obregon was the puppet for your dear wife’s orders. You see, Gonzalo? Everything has been a lie. Liliana wasn’t crazy. No! You all drove her to it!”

--And nope. He isn’t done yet. He's just gettin' started. “Now, we should talk about Eduardo Juarez. Do you remember him? Soledad’s son, who never intended to abuse Fernanda. Barbara made up the whole thing to keep a tight rein on his mother.” Gonzo manages to ask why Barbie kept Soledad away. Art explains it was because Sole and Padre Bosco were the only ones who knew of his existence and it was extremely important for him that they never revealed it to anyone. Bravo’s power was based on it. “--and B-B-Barbara? “--Ha! That woman has belonged to me since she was twelve.” “—W-What do you mean that she has been yours?” “—Exactly that, Gonzalo. I took her out of the reformatory a few days after she burned down the house she and her parents lived in. She burned them up. I raised her and trained her so that she would be who she is.” Gonzo struggles to comprehend. “My…my wife?” “—Yes, Gonzalo. Therefore, the first task was for us to get rid of Monserrat.”

Bravo struts and preens. “You see, Gonzalo. It was all a big lie. And, since we’re speaking plainly, I will clarify for you that she… she isn’t named Barbara. That was the name she used with you these past fifteen years. Her name is really Rebeca Sanchez.” Gonzo thrashes about and strains to catch a breath. “—Rebeca…Sanchez? (Beep, beep, beep! That monitor is bleeping off the scale by now and still no one has come in to check on it.) “--The woman who…pressed charges…against…Camilo?” “—Exactly! The grandmother of your future grandchild.” Gonzo wheezes uncontrollably.

Meanwhile, La Barbie is trying to negotiate with Fernanda by phone while Fer is still in her meeting with Bosco and Fr/Ed. “Don’t try to act smart, Fernanda! You know who has my daughter, or otherwise, how do you explain why Padre Bosco went to visit Damian? He’s told me how to get her back. Are you interested in finding out, yes or no?” Fer agrees to come by and discuss the plan with Barb ASAP. Franco offers to go with Fer but she says it’s time she learns to confront her problems alone. “—We’ll see each other later back at the hospital.”

Back in Gonzo’s hospital room, Gonzo’s monitor is beeping faster and faster. Gonzo at last finds enough strength to mouth a “no puede ser” in disbelief and Artie gleefully chides him for it. “Denying the truth is something only a boy would do, not an old man on his death bed.” Everything he’s told him, Art says, is the truth. “I have never lied. There is no weapon more forceful than the truth. One learns that when he’s born a bastard—and banished [desterrar]!!”

Art grins ghoulishly and says he himself is going to be a grandfather. “I, the bastard, will have the privilege of seeing him raised” and BTW, the child he is referring to, he informs Gonzo, is Aurora and Santiago’s--another belly blow for Gonzo. “Yes, I am Aurora’s father, and Barbara, your faithful wife, is her mother.” The monitor is beeping like crazy now. (So did Artie bribe the charge nurse or are they all taking taco breaks or what? There’s still no sign of the nursing staff.) Gonzo says he refuses to listen to any more, but Artemio happily reminds him he doesn’t exactly have a choice in the matter. “Now we should talk about Franco Santoro. His real name is…Eduardo Juarez, the son of Soledad Cruz!” --More gasping from Gonzo.

Back in Bosco’s parish office, the padre advises Eddie it’s time to tell Fer the truth about his identity. Bosco says he feels guilty for all the harm he’s caused by advising Sole to keep silent all those years. “Padre, I told you already. Fernanda is going to hate me.” Bosco says she’ll get over it in time and will thank him for being honest with her. Eddie remains unconvinced.

Art continues his discourse on the agrieved Eduardo. “Just like me he’s devoted to destroying the Elizalde family because like me he was condemned to the pain of being banished.”

Outside in the hallway, Gardenia comes back to watch over Gonzo, but “Nurse” Hilda is there as lookout and tells her that he’s being seen by a specialist right now. She persuades Denia to wait in the waiting room till she comes get her. Inside, meanwhile, Artemio goads Gonzo. Gonzo chokes out a request to speak with Eduardo. Art mocks him and says, sure he’d like to fulfill the wish of a dying man, but he will be depriving him of the pleasure of his last request. Gonzo grabs his chest. “There’s no time now for you to speak to Eduardo Juarez because soon you are going to die—and he also!” Suddenly Gonzo starts flatlining. Artemio smiles over at him and leers. (Uh, crash carts? Code blue? Anybody there at the other end of this monitor?) Bravo coolly walks out of the hospital room and into the quiet hallway with Hilda and his henchman.

They finally call the emergency just as Bravo hits the nurses’ station and sees Santiago come out of the elevator. He and Uncle Artie exchange glares. Art comes in close and tells Santi that he’s sorry about his father then adds that the next to die will be Franco Santoro. Dr. Castellanos, the heart specialist, arrives and rushes off to Gonzo’s room. (Still no crash cart or crash team uh, but sounds like it’s been ordered. Sheesh.)

Back at the hacienda, Barbie’s lit up and fuming (literally as well as figuratively). She tells Fer, with a bit of embellishment, that the conditions Dam set for them to get Rory back is Fer’s agreeing to go back with him. Fer refuses and says it’s impossible. In between puffs of sophisticated plumes off her Virginia Slim, Barbie says she realizes it is, but if Fer at least pretends to go back with Dam, then they would be able to negotiate and rescue Rory. Barb promises to sign over to Fer all the stock options Gonzo put into Barbie’s name once Aurora is back safe with them. Fer says she’ll have to think about it. Just then Fer gets a call from Santiago and says she’s got to race back to the hospital. Papi’s taken a turn for the worse. Barb wants to know what’s going on. “—Good news for you. My father’s dying.” Fer slams the door behind her and races off to the hospital. Barb says to herself well, she'd rather he would have died already, and then takes another puff.

A while later, family and friends are waiting at the hospital for word from the doctor about Gonzo’s condition. Santi comes out and tells Fer and the others that there’s still no word from the doctor. Fer says she doesn’t understand how this could have happened since Daddy was responding so well. Denia guiltily explains to the two of them that she was told to stay out of the room because the doctor and nurse told her they were doing studies on him. Estev calms her down as Fer turns to Fr/Ed and asks if he thinks they should let Lili know about her papi’s situation. He says no because her sister’s in no condition to get this kind of news, least of all with La Hiena there; it would only upset her.

Cerisola tells Barb that he blames himself for causing Gonzo’s heart attack. If it weren’t for him telling Gonzo about the charges Aurora’s mother --some woman named Rebeca Sanchez-- made against Cadmilo, Gonzo wouldn’t be at Death’s door like this. Barbara lies about not knowing who he’s talking about and adds that if she were in her shoes she’d have done the same because, even though Cad’s her stepson, he ought to pay for his crime. (Yeah, La Barbie is definitely selective when it comes to crime and punishment.)

Speaking of said delinquent, we beam over to the prison where Cad is rudely awakened from his beauty sleep by one of the other prisoners getting a good yuk or two out of warning him about what they do to rapists in there.

Back at the hospital, Anibal arrives right before the doctor comes out with his diagnosis. Looks like Gonzo made it through but will need a double by-pass. The gang all go to the chapel where Padre Bosco leads them --everyone but Bitch Barbie-- in prayer for a successful surgery.

At the same time, Lili wakes up from a nightmare. She tells Martina that she was dreaming that her mother had come to get her father. Martina’s explanation is that it was a bad dream from eating too many corn tamales at supper. (Under other circumstances, I’d probably have to agree….)

In the lounge at the hospital, AnyBalls is apparently impatient to get his mits on Jr.’s money. He tells Cerisola to give him access to his son’s inheritance right away. Cerisola says he cannot. AB will just have to wait till the child is born. Pris cannot believe what a Milk dud she married. Pris asks him why he thinks he has to rush things. AB tells her to butt out and then tells Cerisola he needs it to be able to take charge of the company while his father is recuperating. Cerisola says too bad, but it won’t change a thing. He will still have to wait for the baby to be born and legally registered as the first Elizalde grandchild as stipulated by the agreement.

The heart specialist eventually comes back out from the operation which, he tells them all, was a success. Gonzo will be in Intensive Care and all visitors are strictly prohibited. Everyone but Fer and Santi start to leave. Fr/Ed says he’ll be back after taking Padre Bosco back to the parish. Once they’re all gone, Santi tells Nanda that he thinks the one responsible for their father’s heart attack was Artemio Bravo. He says he ran into him at the elevator as he was coming out of Gonzo’s room; and he was with a nurse and a doctor who must have been the people who told Denia to leave Gonzo’s room. He mentions the threat Bravo made on Franco’s life. Once Fr/Ed returns they inform him that Bravo was the last one to speak to Gonzo. Fr/Ed agrees that whatever Bravo told Gonzo must have caused his heart attack. Fer says she doesn’t doubt it and mentions he was even cynical enough to “pay his respects” to Santi afterward.

Fer sends Santi off for coffee so she can have a private word with Fr/Ed who offers to hire security round the clock for her father now. She says fine, that’s the only way she’d feel comfortable leaving to meet with Damian anyway. Fr/Ed mentions that Padre Bosco called the prison director and requested a safe place for her to meet with Dam. He wants to know then what Barbara and she discussed at the hacienda. Nanda explains the deal with Damian and adds that Barbara also promised to sign her over the stock from Lactos once Aurora’s back safe and sound. Fr/Ed looks at her. “Barbara won’t be able to sleep tonight, but not because of Gonzo. It will be because she’s anxious to see her daughter again knowing that it will depend totally on you!”

Barbara, meanwhile, is back at the hacienda and telling herself that she no longer needs Fernanda Elizalde because she now has her own infallible means of getting her daughter back, and that neither Fer nor Santiago will ever again see Rory in their entire cursed existence.

Still in the hospital lounge, Fer tells Fr/Ed that she has two things more to ask him and that she hopes it will be the last time she ever has to ask him anything again. Fr/Eddie smiles accommodatingly and says he’s game for whatever she wants. He tells her he is thrilled she’s begun to use the familiar “tú” with him again. She ignores that and says the first thing is that after speaking with Dam, she wants to speak with Artemio Bravo. The second favor is that once that’s over, she needs to ask him to disappear for good! Fr/Ed frowns and is muy, but muy, negatively impactado at the apparent rejection.

Fer tells him she has her reasons for asking. Obviously hurt and disappointed, he says he’d like to know what they are. Fer tries to explain. “I know to you I must seem like the most ungrateful person you know, but I need your word that you will leave.” “—Why?” “—Because your life is in danger. Santiago told me that Bravo says you will be the next to die. That man always keeps his word.” Fr/Eddie says he still doesn’t understand why she needs to speak with Bravo. “Absursdly enough, he’s a blood relation and has tirelessly persisted in the destruction of our lives--” Fr/Ed wonders if she thinks by talking to him she is going to suddenly make him see the light and change his evil ways. Nanda says of course not, but she’s going to let him know that she’s aware he was the one who tried to kill her father and that she will be going to the police. She’s had enough of living under his malevolent yoke. (I just love it when these writers finally manage to put $4 words in their character’s mouths.)

The next day Barb is back at Bravo’s and still nervously smoking up a storm. She says she’s worried that Damian will try to get even with her by giving Fernanda the address where he’s keeping her daughter. Artie sneers that he’s not going to leave it up to Fernanda to free his daughter. Barb asks what he’s got in mind. Bravo says, “Let’s just say that today is not the day for conjugal visits at the prison.” Barbara then complains that Damian has become a headache for them and their plans. Art comments that essentially, neither he nor Santoro are useful to them anymore. If he does come across her whereabouts, he will inevitably hand her over to the Elizalde’s. So, that being the case, Bravo says he’s just going to have to make Gallardo an offer he can’t refuse.

In the meantime, Fernanda meets with Damian in the warden’s office alone. Dam thanks her for coming. She says she didn’t exactly have a choice and wants to know if he knows where Aurora is. He says first she has to make a deal with him. Fer says if he means he wants her to agree to go back with him, the answer is “N-O, NO.” Dam looks wounded. “--Wouldn’t you say our destinies are still connected?” Fer says there’s a big difference between destiny and damnation. Damian replies that it seems that there is something more behind that pretty face of the foolish little rich girl he used to know. “Tell me why Aurora is so important for La Hiena.” Before Fer will answer she wants proof he has her. Dam says to call her step-mother. Barbara will tell her whatever she asks her. Fer takes him up on it and calls Barb.

In her office at Lactos, La Barbie has just opened up an envelope with a photo taken of the aforementioned kidnap victim. Barbara’s hands are shaking as she answers her cell. She screams at Fer that a picture of Rory has just arrived. In full panic mode Barbara begs Fer to give Damian anything he asks. “—Whatever he asks for, please!!!” Fer puts down her cell phone, obviously shocked at the change in the woman. Dam tells her he now is ready to listen and Fer obliges. “Aurora is Barbara’s daughter.” Damian is stutter-and-stammer impactado.

Once Damian gets his wits about him he tells Fer she’s just given him some excellent news, and with it a great opportunity to get even with La Hiena, “the unfortunate b!tch.” “--I’m going to make her eat dirt, make her pay for all those miserable years I spent working under her (Er…not to mention those over and in the proverbial clover, but I digress…) suffering her insults and her humiliations, having accused me of fraud at Lactos, shooting me mercilessly in the leg, and now this. They arrested me for terrorism after she had asked me to get her all those explosives. (For a good price he forgets to add, but no need to quibble now.) --But she’s going to pay very dearly for it now, because I’m going to get her where it hurts her most, with her daughter!”

Ah-wah-wah is once again tearfully praying to the virgencita for a miracle that will save her and her child from Damian’s boogy-men so that she can be reunited with the man she luhhhhvs. (It’s crunch time and the virgencita has been working overtime with all the Elizalde requests lately, but Viewerville is certain she’ll manage to squeeze her in somewhere.)

Santi, meanwhile, has come to pay Cad a visit in prison. Cad laughs and says it’s a good thing there’s a reinforced glass panel between them right now because it’s obvious from the look in his eyes that Santi is ready to jump him. Santi says he’s got that right. He’s more than ready to beat him to a pulp for raping the woman he loves, but he wants to know why Cad did it. Cad shrugs and says he won’t deny he always was enticed by her, but really, by that time he was interested in Loafly, and only did it because La Hiena insisted. “She was the one who set it all up. She wanted to get rid of Aurora because according to what she told me, the girl was a menace to the family. She worked it so that Aurora would be alone, even gave me knock-out drops to make the whole business go simpler.”

Cad’s in a hopeful mood. “Little bro, it’s not a nice place here, and Barbara promised to get me out, but things have gotten complicated. The supposed mother of Aurora, some woman named Rebeca Sanchez, has brought charges against me for what I did. Help me, little bro, because I am really sorry for what I did already. Please? Tell Barb to keep her word. Please????” Santi frowns and tells him he’s wasting his time because Rebeca Sanchez, the woman claiming to be Aurora’s mother, is none other than Barbara Greco herself, and the one who murdered their mother.

Cad’s just been kicked in the proverbial gonads; his mouth is back to catching flies as his beady little eyes go wide with the realization that he’s been screwed six ways from sundown (or will be once the big boys in the back get hold of him). Yes, indeed. His fate is sealed and as solid as the bullet-proof glass wall in front of him. (Hmm. What was that prisoner saying about rapists in prison?)

Speaking of prison visits, Fer now tells Dam that whatever revenge he’s planning with Aurora is only going to harm the family more than even Artemio Bravo and Barbara Greco have. Bravo, she explains, is the man for whom she was working, and they have caused them harm for years. “Following his instructions for revenge, Barbara killed my mother, locked my sister away for years in a psychiatric clinic, and my father is now fighting for his life. Damian, if there is anything good left in you, please hand me over Aurora, because she belongs with Santiago. Please.” Dam turns to the window and begins to consider things in a new light as Fer continues her plea. “In your hands, Damian, are people who might marry, might be happy, or rather, they might be what we could never have been.”

Dam turns to face Fernanda and admits that even though she might never believe it, he did fall in love with her. She sighs. He did commit numerous mistakes, he admits, and so he wasn’t worthy of her. She tells him she doesn’t think now is the time to talk about themselves and again asks him to help her. “All right. I’ll give instructions to get her and so you should be able to have her back at the hacienda by this afternoon.” The guards come to return him to his cell. He gives her a final farewell. “Hasta siempre, Fernanda.” Fer picks up her purse and leaves.

Back at Bravo’s manse, Art’s got Barb on the phone. He tells her the situation with Damian is beginning to percolate [actually, cocinando = cooking]. As for Gonzalo Elizalde, since there’s such a contingent of security around him at the hospital, he says Barb, as the grieving wife, will be the only one likely to be able to break through it to get to him. She asks what she’s supposed to do. “--Make sure you are left a widow!”

Fer meets Fr/Ed back at Las Animas now and tells him she’s sure that Barbara Greco is no doubt playing both sides against the middle and of course won’t let them in on it. Fr/Ed asks her if she’s afraid that once Fer finds out where Aurora is that she’ll double-cross them and make off with Rory. Fer says that’s about the size of it because Barb’s degree of selfishness won’t allow her to let her or Santi anywhere near her daughter and grandchild. She can only hope that Dam will keep his word because Santi and Rory’s happiness depend on it.

Dam, meanwhile, gives Jacobo a call and tells him there’s been a change in plans. He wants Jacobo to take Aurora back to the hacienda and personally hand her over to Fernanda. Jacobo wonders what this is all about. “Let’s just say she caught me in a good mood.” Jacobo warns him that his generosity is going to cost them a lot of moo-lah. Dam says not to worry about that because once Anyball’s kid inherits, they’ll get it back with interest.

Back at Las Animas Fer demands to speak with Bravo. Fr/Ed says he’s worried that the man intends to hurt her. “And do you want me to continue being scared and intimidated by him until he’s done away with all of us?” Fr/Eddie gives in and says fine, just let him stick with her while she’s there. She says sure thing. He calls Bravo to arrange it and tells him he has to see him immediately about a personal matter.

At the prison, Damian is now “visited” by a bunch of oversized goons as he returns to his cell. Lead Goon says, “They sent us to have a chat with you.” Damian’s suspicious. “—What kind of roaches are you?” “--The finest.” Lead Goon takes out a thin rubber strap while the others force Damian’s hands behind his back. They begin to beat him and ask for the address. When he doesn’t answer Lead Goon puts the rubber strap around Damian’s neck and starts strangling him. (Gotta admit it’s tough to answer if they’re crushing your vocal cords and making it impossible to breathe at the same time, but then, these aren’t the brightest baddies, just the biggest). As the camera fades out Dam is left to his fate and Viewerville is left to wonder if he will break or go to his grave with it.

A while later, Bravo gives somebody an address at 127 Alta Tension. (Is this for real or are the writers playing with us? #127 High Pressure Street?) He tells the person to go there right away. He then asks, “What about the guy?” An ambulance speeds away from the prison. The warden asks his head guard if anybody saw anything. The commander says apparently it was a well-paid job because nobody is saying anything. The warden asks about Damian then. “He can’t speak. He was nearly dead. [reventado] The paramedic doesn’t think he’ll manage to make it to the hospital.”

Meanwhile, Lucio gets a tipoff from Jacobo about Dam’s little run-in at the prison. He hangs up and starts to pace. “This is going to get ugly.” Always a survivor, Lucio starts thinking about an out.

Fernanda enters Artemio’s lair. Art’s a little surprised as he realizes who it is. “Welcome…Fernanda Elizalde.”

At the hospital, Babs is back in business and feigns concern over Gonzo’s condition with the specialist. She asks if she can see her husband for just a second. The doctor falls for the act and leads the way. As he disappears around the corner, Santi grabs Babs’ arm at the last second and warns her not to try anything because he will make sure she regrets it. She breaks free and sneers back at him before catching up with the doctor.

Fernanda fearlessly faces off with her Uncle Artie as Fr/Ed stands guard off to the side. “After what you did to my father, I want to know what else we can expect from you!” Art compliments her on her directness and says he appreciates it because that way they won’t squander [malgastar] their time. “I know that you went to speak to my father, and whatever you told him provoked a new attack and it has him at the edge of death.” “—Yes, your brother saw me come out of the place. I was with him, but that doesn’t make me responsible for him being at Death’s door [agonizar].” The self-righteous gargoyle looks down his nose at her. “If your father dies, it won’t be I who has caused his death, but the truth!” Fer wrinkles her little nose and screams up at him. “—What ‘truth?’ ” “--The same truth that you’ve been uncovering…thanks to your… er… friend, Franco Santoro.”

Nanda asks if Art means Ana Gregoria’s diary. He says that’s part of it, yes. “--Or, rather, the start of it.” Fer angrily hisses at him that her father isn’t to blame for what her grandparents did. Bravo replies that neither is she to blame for her father’s mistakes, but she’s suffering because of them all the same. (More egomaniacal claptrap here that I’m at a loss to decipher. Just go with it guys.) “--Neither am I to blame for what my mother did, but here I am. We are all the heirs of what pertains to our parents. That includes despicable acts!” “--Certainly if my father had known about you he’d have—“ Bravo cuts her off. “—He would have done the same with me as they did to your sister Liliana! --Or don’t you remember what he did when she dared to tell him what they were going through at your home at that moment?”

Artie doesn’t stop even to catch his breath. “Your sister had the courage to confront Barbara and it was she who heard the order I myself gave Barbara over the phone to kill your mother! That weakling Gonzalo preferred to take the word of a newly arrived employee over that of his own daughter. –What were you expecting Fernanda? That I would say to him: ‘I’m your brother. Our parents were undesirable scoundrels and I need a family’? --Ah, come on, Fernanda! You always lived in a fantasy world!” Fer refuses to respond to the insult. “--Just when are you going to put an end to your vengeance?” “—Very soon. There’s just one thing left to do. I’ve got to have my daughter, Aurora, at my side.” Fernanda is finally at a loss for words.

Jacobo gets back to the hideout and yells at Lucio to get Rory ready so they can take her with them. Just then machine gun bullets start piercing the front door to the shack and Jacobo takes cover. The gunmen break in and demand to know where she is. Jacobo doesn’t realize it, but Lucio and Aurora are now truckin’ through the back woods, a step ahead of Bravo’s henchmen. Lucio pushes her to keep her moving.

Back at Bravo’s, Fer reminds Art that just because Santi’s son is also Art’s grandchild, that doesn’t give him the right to take him away from Santi. “Let’s stop talking about rights and talk instead about ‘justice’, Fernanda. Years ago Altagracia and Jeronimo cut me off from my mother. You don’t think that now it is fair that I take my grandson away from you?” Fer is ready to scratch the old troll’s eyes out when Fr/Ed steps in and tells her it’s time to go because they aren’t going to get a thing from the man. Bravo tells him that’s being excessive. He’s just given them a banquet full. Fer says well, then he should understand why they don’t intend to thank him for his ‘gift’. She throws a curse at him in ever increasing decibels. “What I will assure you of, though, is that with an unlucky SOB like you, whose heart is so full of hate and vengeance, God will deny you the privilege of ever enjoying your grandchild!!”

In his room in Intensive Care, Bab’s tries to sweet-talk the nurse into leaving her alone with Gonzo. The nurse has specific instructions not to leave the patient alone for even an instant. Barb decides to take a different tack and leans over his bed. “Vida, do you hear me?" He moves his finger yes but his eyes are still closed. He opens his eyes and slowly moves his head around for a good squint. “--You’re in the hospital. You gave us a terrible fright, but very soon you’re going to be fine.” Gonzo starts gasping for air through his oxygen mask and his eyes go wide. He begins to scream at her. “Murderer! Murderer!” Unfortunately for him, his voice is muffled under that mask and the noise from the monitors around him doesn’t help things. The nurse continues working diligently on her paperwork in the corner and (of course) doesn’t hear. (Viewerville is on the edge of its seat, to see if the Barbot will surface and make her play now. Unfortunately, Viewereville will have to wait till the finale to find out.)

Fer and Fr/Ed walk out onto the curb in front of Bravo’s to discuss what just went on inside. She tells him she wants him to take her to the police station to report Artemio to the police for having murdered her mother. Fr/Ed doesn’t like the idea and starts to say something but she stops him short. “NO! It’s obvious that neither he nor Barbara will give up Aurora. My brother’s going to lose her and I am not going to allow it!” Fr/Ed gives in and says fine, then she can count on him and he’ll act as her witness. She turns around suddenly to face him and says, “ Ok. And just how are you going to sign the complaint –as Franco Santoro or as Eduardo Juarez????” (Ruh-rohI) It’s finally come to Jesus time for the Edster…..

Labels: manana

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 7:31 PM 160 comments

Mi nombre es Serendipitypb or PB.

Several years ago I had what I thought was a novel idea. :) (I seriously have to roll my eyes now that it was a novel idea.) I would learn Spanish by watching Spanish Television and listen to Spanish in my car as I drove from place to place with my job.

I started recording a show but as I flipped stations my hubby said he would be more apt to watch if I record this one (that he saw pass by) instead of the one I was recording. So I changed my recording, and soon had about 30 or so episodes. Trying to get the television from hubby who likes football isn't easy.

Hubby had to leave town for week and I had a weekend marathon that took me to the first time Leti and Don Fernando were together. I became a LFMB addict. Yes, an addict. Hubby watched with me when he came back, at least for a few months. I had missed months in the beginning because of my timing but I sure started watching at the best time. Of course, I could understand practically nothing, so I searched and searched on the WEB, and finally came across Caray, Caray, where I could learn what I missed, and I have been grateful for this site ever since. I did have a very difficult time getting over my disappointment with how LFMB played out, but I was stuck to the very painful end.

Since then I have been silently with you all through Pasión, Tontas, MEPS and I can't remember what others. I bought several full length telenovelas including Betty la Fea, L FMB, Pasion de Gavilanes and cut versions of Alborado, Amor Real to name a few. You have all helped me turn the light bulb on with your recaps and comments. Thank all of you for your dedication and hard work, and Melinama for starting Caray, Caray!

Some of my time has been freed up recently and I thought that I would try to give back. I am going to attempt to recap Sortiliego on Wednesdays. Note that I did not say a good recap. I am sure I really have no idea what I am in for, and if any of you recappers have any advice, I sure could use it. I don’t have a beanie, but I had instructions somewhere on how to make one. I could use help though, with some instructions on how to post this so that it goes to the right place.

Gracias.
PB

Labels: manana, recapper-intro, sortilegio

Beto’s mad. His Mama kicked him out, and when Moni does the same (gently, however), he lays a major guilt trip on her, vowing to live in the streets like a dog. He packs his tee-shirts in his duffel, and heads on out.

Over at Jerry/Xime’s housey, the bell rings. Jerry’s downstairs engrossed in a super important game of solitaire, and Xime’s way upstairs, but Jerry’s too cool to answer the door, so he summons his sis, who comes down wondering why he called her. Then, when he says “ask who it is” she says “who is it?” – to Jerry. He finally gets through to her to answer the door, but ask who it is first. She opens the door without asking. Fortunately, it’s no crook, it’s La Loquita, the wedding planner. He’s crying, and needs a hug from Xime. He’s sees Jerry, looks him up and down, and needs a “back hug” from Jerry.



Moni needs company, feels guilty about kicking out Beto, knocks on Estrella’s door, but she’s not in. A neighborhood gossip confirms she’s with her new beau. So Moni goes to see Nieves, who’s crying on her bed, hugging a doll. Moni admits she and Beto argued a little, and she kicked him out. How could you? asks Nieves. Well, you did it first. Sure, but I only did it so you’d take him in! How could you leave him destitute (desamparado)? Moni explains that she loves Beto, but like a brother. And she’s in love with Mauricio. One day they’ll get married. Nieves doesn’t think so. She thinks that as soon as Mau gets Moni in the cama, he’ll drop her like a hot potato, the way all guys do (speaking from experience?) Moni tells how Mau called off the wedding with Connie, but Nieves thinks Mau is deceiving Moni, and asks her to leave. As Moni exits, Nieves continues crying.

As does Connie, despondent at Mau’s shocking statement that he may have to get married in two weeks, but not to Connie. Katia tells her not to worry, Mau and she have argued before, but Connie knows it’s different this time, Mau’s really going to get married, and with the monkey of the circus! Great, says Kat, so you made me steal that stuff for nothing, and jeopardize my relationship with Aldo! Connie ignores this, vows revenge. There’s a knock on the door, and guess who’s coming to dinner? It’s Beto, who after giving Kat a lewd looking over, informs Connie that his Mom kicked him out, as did Moni, so he’s movin’ in! He plunks his duffel down on the table. Kat’s amused, who is this guy?

Lalo wants some whiskey, requests it out of Jerry’s half finished glass. He tells Jerry if you drink from the same cup, you’re bound together for life. At this, Xime perks up, she wants to drink from that glass, but too late! Lalo gulped it all down. He’s still worried about doing a wedding in two weeks, it’s impossible, he’s an artist, he’s fashion, he can’t compromise his standards. Jerry encourages him with flattery, if anyone can do it, it’s you. And I’ll reward you with extras (con creces, or an increase in money). Ooooh, coos Lalo, with those extras, how can I say no? He strokes his hair, freaking Jerry out a bit, but of course Xime misses it all, and thinks he’s divine.

Beto’s making himself at home, asks where the remote is, informs Connie he has dirty laundry in his backpack, she can wash it tomorrow. No way, says Connie. Katia still wonders who he is, but when Beto tells her not to worry “cuñada” (sister-in-law), she holds her nose and asks if Connie’s going with this filthy pig (guarro). Connie says no, he’s the novia of La Monita, we’re just “friends”, we help each other. Right, affirms Beto, and we haven’t finished helping each other, you understand? I think Katia does. Connie dismisses her. As soon as the Kat’s away, the mice will play. They’re both sad they’ve been dumped on by their mates, so of course they start kissing. He wants to go to the bedroom. She says no, then yes, then no! If he wants her totally, he’ll have to destroy Mauricio in the ring. He wants his reward now, and tries to kiss her again, but she pushes him toward the door, throws him his duffel, and says he’ll have to sleep in the streets, at the gym, wherever, she doesn’t care. Fine, he counters, but when I win, I’m going to claim my reward. He lays a last hot kiss on her and leaves, as she falls back onto the bed, gasping for breath, ecstatic.

Moni’s still thinking about Nieves’ warning when her phone rings. It’s Mau, who asks if she broke it off with Beto. She did, and no, she doesn’t feel bad, she feels liberated. But he senses her unease. She asks if he’d ever deceive her, and he promises he wouldn’t. She promises the same. Night falls, and we’ll see what the new day brings.

It’s starts off great. Estrella gushes over the night she spent at Tano’s, and Moni gives her the news that she finally ended it with Beto. Also, Mauricio called off his wedding! Knock, knock, it’s Ximena, who wants a favor from Estrella. Estre wonders, aren’t you still mad at me? Ximmy’s forgotten, was she? Anyway, she’s found the love of her life. Again? asks Estre. No, she just met him yesterday for the first time (!) And it’s time for Xime’s 3 things – 1) she needs advice as to how to woo Lalo, 2) this time, Estrella, don’t steal him, and 3)let’s all go get dresses for Mau’s wedding! Moni fills her in – the wedding’s off. Wrong, says Xime, it’s on, in two weeks (15 days is how you say two weeks in the latino world). Moni’s worried now, but Estre tells her to chill, get all prettied up, go to the office, and see what the real story is, it’s probably just a misunderstanding.

Nieves dials the barrio phone, calls the gym, where Beto’s bunking. Don Cesar picks up, hands the phone to Beto. He starts out insulting his Mom, what’s the matter, you remembered you had a kid, whom you carried inside you, whom you breastfed (amamantaste) till the age of 8? She shuts him up, gives him some advice (which we don’t hear). In the next scene, Moni meets Beto for breakfast. He says if you’re really sure you want to marry Mau, I won’t stand in your way. He blesses her (to her surprise), adding that if it turns out Mau was deceiving her, Beto will still be there for her. Moni’s doubtometer is rising. Beto says we could leave for Las Vegas now, I’m ready. Let’s go. You’ll never be really be happy with old doll hair. Think about it. Moni’s face gives it away, she just can’t stop that doubtometer. But she knows Nieves is behind this. Meanwhile, she has to go to work.

Estrella’s missing her blouse (no she’s wearing one, it’s a different one, what were you thinking? :). She thinks Nieves accidentally took it from the clothesline (tendedero), and she goes into Nieves’ apartment to search for it, when she hears voices, and hides. It’s Nieves and Connie. Nieves tells Connie the good news – Beto’s going to try to convince Moni to go to Las Vegas. That way, she’ll be away from Mauricio, and the field will be open for Connie and Mau. The bad news? She sticks out her palm. I need 30,000 pesos so Beto and La Monita will leave forever! Estrella is all ears (behind the beaded curtains). Connie thinks it’s funny, it’s a bargain (ganga). She immediately writes out a check. As they go outside, Estrella is outraged.

Mau can’t understand why the judge is so extreme, it’s extortion. Oscar thinks it’s normal, but Salvador agrees that it’s strange. Oscar reminds Mau that Judge Durán is the judge they have, so they have to do what he wants, or lose the adoption case. He leaves, Moni comes in, hears Sal, Mau and the word wedding, says “So you’re getting married in two weeks. Fine, I’m going to Las Vegas with Beto!” Mau asks Sal to leave them alone, can’t understand why yesterday Moni said she broke up with Beto. Maybe I lied. But I’m leaving as soon as possible. Fine, he replies. Go fight, win all your fights, you can live your life hitting and wounding people. Looks who’s talking, she answers, you who play with people’s lives. Maybe I can’t be your wife, but I sure won’t be your lover! She turns and leaves him in shock (again).

Into the coffee room she goes, where Paula tries to make her see reason, but to no avail. She goes to leave the office, and when Gabi asks just where does she think she’s going, she answers Las Vegas. Gabi didn’t authorize this vacation, but Moni’s not listening. She’s on her way out, when the elevator opens, and a laughing Connie and Lalo come out. She tells Connie it’s nice you’re getting married in two weeks, you and Mauricio were made for each other (son tal para cual).

Aldo is very understanding with Katia at school. She’d understand if he’d want some distance after what happened, but he doesn’t. He’s very tender and kind to her. Luisa comes up and makes fun of Katia as a klepto (spelled with a “c” in spanish), but Aldo tells her to leave, and lets Katia know his sister is just being foolish, don’t mind her. Katia says she hopes her sister never marries Mauricio. (It seems she’s one of the good guys now).

Connie’s in Mau’s office, sees how upset he is, but isn’t really consoling him much. He tells her Moni’s going to Las Vegas with Beto, and she remarks that it’s typical of such low class people. He should never have lowered himself. He wonders if she’s enjoying this. She says she’s not, but what about the judge? He says he’ll find another solution. Fine, because she’s not so sure she even wants to get back with him now, he’s hurt her so much. This pain you feel from Monita, imagine ten thousand times more, and that’s how much you hurt me. Have a nice day! She leaves.

And guess what? That lil ol’ microphone is still under Mau’s desk, picking up every word! Well, maybe they took it out at some point, but Jerry and Oscar heard this last conversation. Jerry’s proud of himself. The next step – video! The two guys are so happy, they just can’t help hugging each other (and this is at least the third time – could there be more than mere male bonding?). Well, Lalo certainly thinks so, as he enters just in time to see our boys bond. And he’s jealous, thought he had some chemistry with Jerry. He tells them he’s young, he’s hot, he’s a queen, and he’s gonna fight for Jerry like a she-wolf in heat! (una loba en celo). As he leaves, Oscar’s amused. He’s sure Lalo’s gonna plan a wedding, but it might be with Jerry! He wants to be the best man.

Sal asks Gabi to send a fax, but she wants to take an hour off. Lalo comes out with Connie, asks if the wedding is still on. She says there’s nothing definitive, but keep working. Before they leave, Lalo asks Sal to give a little pink note to Jerry. He stayed up for hours last night working on it, it’s very heartfelt (sentida), and of course Sal will deliver it.

But not before reading it. Here’s how it starts. “Dear Jero, I can’t stop thinking about your strong hugs…” Salvador gets a mischievous look, tucks it into his vest pocket, and we go to commercial.

Pau’s in the coffee room, sad. Gabi tells her to cheer up, she’ll miss Moni, too, when she goes to Las Vegas, of course as a friend. As an employee she left much to be desired. Paula’s still sad about Cristian, though. Gabi reminds her she’s the one who decided not to go. Pau doesn’t think Gabi can understand, being an old maid (solterona), while Paula’s still young with her life ahead of her. Me an old maid, shoots back Gabi, how many times have you been married? Right, answers oblivious Paula, I’m way younger than you, thanks for cheering me up. She’s happy now, and leaves. Gabi, not so much. Sal comes in, and Gabi’s not happy with him, either. Her biological clock is ticking, and he’s making her lose time. But he has something to show her, a love letter. He extracts the pink letter from his breast pocket, as Gabi’s eyes light up.

We get to hear the rest of the letter. “I can’t stop thinking about your strong hugs that consoled me when I needed it most. The hug we had was almost a caress, a magical moment when I knew love for the first time”. Uyyyy! Sal gets a sneaky look, tells Gabi that with this note, Jerry will pay for everything he’s done.

Xime and Jero are walking through a cemetery, she’s carrying flowers, but raving about her connection with Lalo. She stubs her toe, wonders why there are so many tombstones (lápidas) here. Apparently they’ve come to visit their father’s grave. But Xime just has Lalo on the brain. Xime thinks they have a lot in common, and now that she’s over 16 years old, and Jerry’s almost 50, can he give her a little advice on how to attract Lalo? Jerry thinks she has a problem, because the guy is dying for HIM. You killed him? she answers, not getting it at all. Is that why we’re in the cemetery? Where did you bury him? Right there, he points, to shut her up. It’s an open grave, and our bum pushes Xime right in! What’s up, bro? He lays down the law. From now on, if you want advice, you’ll have to consult the I Ching, a chiropractor, a kinesiologist, a card reader, or anyone else but me. Is that clear?! Got it, thanks brother, you’re the best. He then walks away, leaving poor Ximena six feet down, unable to climb out, calling for help. Auxilio!

Salvador has Lalo sign some contract he’d forgotten to sign. Lalo asks if he delivered the note (to Jerry). Sal says yes, and says there’s an answer, too. To Lalo’s delight, Sal gives him a folded up note, which Lalo kisses, saying it smells of MAN. He’s off, and Gabi laughs. Sal asks her out to dinner, but she reminds him he’s married, so the answer is no. She happily exits, leaving him pensive.

At the gym, Mau is training with El Cibernético. And he’s doing well, has Ciber in a headlock. (Do we care that these matches are usually scripted, and there’s no real wrestling? Of course not. I believe, I believe. BTW, here's a muscle shot for you ladies.) Muscleman Ciber goes off to make some calls, as Tano comes to visit. Mau has a favor to ask. Never give me advice again. Huh? Mau relates how he cancelled the wedding, declared his love for Moni. And what happened? Moni’s going to Vegas with Beto. So whatcha gonna do? inquires Tano. There’s only one way to stop Moni. Get in that ring, and fight for her, to the death.

In another gym, Beto’s also doing well, has Costeño’s arm bent back, holding his head down, telling Costeño to cry uncle (he actually says “dime vaquero” which is literally say cowboy). Moni’s watching. She tells Beto she’s made her decision. She’ll go with him to Las Vegas (tears are in her eyes, though). Beto’s overjoyed, Moni’s heartbroken, wants to leave as soon as possible.

And that’s it. Love is doomed, it just was not to be.

But wait! In the previews: Connie wants to get married, finalize the adoption, then get divorced (okay, sounds reasonable to me). Moni discovers the money trail, and Mau and Moni are kissing again! Oh, why did I ever doubt. I’ve got to work on my doubtometer.

Vocabulario:

Desamparado – destitute
Con creces – and more, or with extras, for example, le devolví con creces su dinero, I paid him back all his money and more
Un guarro – a filthy pig
Amamantar - to breastfeed
Tendedero – clothesline
Ganga – a bargain
Son tal para cual – they’re just as bad as each other, two of a kind
Una loba en celo – a she-wolf in heat

Labels: gancho

Carmen gives Macarena an envelope that she found in Inaki's room. She wants Macarena to look at it first before Paloma does. Macarena asks what is it, but Carmen prefers her to look at it instead.

Rafael is on the phone with Emiliano and finds out that Orlando and Camila left to go to Mexico City together to find Romina. He is not happy.

Carmen tells Macarena that the papers in the envelope pertain to an investigation Inaki had done. She prefers Macarena read it in private. Carmen tells her that what is in the envelope will change her life. Macarena promises to read it once she is alone. (Yeah like that will really happen. Somehow I see the envelope "disappearing"). Paloma comes in excited to see Carmen.

Diana tries calling Romina again. No answer.

Paloma tells Carmen that she would never have forgiven her if she left without giving her a kiss. Macarena puts the envelope on the table and walks away. Carmen tells Paloma ever since Inaki's death her zest for life is gone. Paloma tells her that Inaki would not have liked it. Carmen knows, just give her time. She asks Paloma and Macarena to come visit her in Spain so that she can go around. Paloma gets excited, but remembers that they have no money. Carmen assures them that they will have it. She makes them promise to visit her in Spain.

Cristobal tells Padre Benito about his decision to leave the priesthood. Padre Benito is happy that Cristobal is at peace with his decision. He reminds Cristobal that they have to go to Mexico City in front of the superiors to withdrawal his position/priesthood. (I really don't know what to call it). Cristobal thanks Padre Benito for his support in everything. Padre Benito reminds him that god has a plan for him. Perhaps not as a priest, but as a man.

Macarena tells Paloma that she finds it odd that Carlota has not arrived yet for dinner. As she is talking, I am yelling at her to pick up the envelope. Anyway Paloma asks if Carmen would be hurt if she knew that she was going out with Emiliano. She is a strong woman replies Macarena and believes that it would not bother her. Thankfully Paloma picks up the envelope and takes it with her to her room. Carlota finally comes home and Macarena questions her on her whereabouts. Carlota gets ugly and says that she was at the dispensario doing both of their work. Where were you? Macarena says here of course. Now it's time to eat.

Diana is in her room looking at herself in the mirror then reminisces about her encounter with Orlando at the restaurant. She starts freaking out and tries on a wig. She complains that she looks just like Camila (I don't think so honey). She tries on a scarf and sunglasses, but realizes that will also not work. She doesn't want to go, but knows that Emiliano would be upset with her if she doesn't.

Macarena remembers Cristobal's words about wanting to be free so that he can be with her. She has a huge smile on her face and starts singing. She is so happy that soon they will be together. Carlota comes in without knocking and wonders why Macarena is singing and smiling. Basically happy. Macarena asks if she knows to knock first before coming in? What do you want? Carlota asks why did she not ask her to go to mass this morning? Macarena says because you don't go every morning only when you want too. Does that bother you asks Carlota. No replies Macarena. Carlota asks her if there is anything new. What are you talking about asks Macarena. I don't know anything replies Carlota. Macarena says if you want to know if Padre Juan is back then find out yourself. I am not going to tell you. Carlota gives her the stink eye as Macarena giggles to herself and then starts singing again.

Carlota goes into her room and wonders what's up with Macarena's happiness. Is it because Cristobal is back?

German and Romina are shopping. She is picking out clothes and purses as Orlando and Camila stroll on by without them seeing each other. German is paying for all of her purchases and does not look too happy. They are strolling in the mall when German tells Romina that he has to go back home. They kiss and he leaves.

Camila tells Orlando that he should not have bought the dress for her. She feels uncomfortable. Orlando says let me spoil you. Anyway the dress looks spectacular on you. Of course the dress is gorgeous agrees Camila. It's just that I'm not use to anyone buying me things. Orlando tells her that she needs to get use to it. He understands that she was hurt in the past and so was he. Things may not have worked out in the love department for them in the past, but he thinks this is a great opportunity. I haven't felt like this in a long time. Just accept the gift and look the best you have ever been for me. Camila agrees and they kiss. (I really like him for her.)

Emiliano goes to see Chava and thanks him for everything that he did for Paloma. Chava's grandmother tells Emiliano that Chava is not behaving himself then leaves to go to work. Emiliano asks him what's up. Chava says not much. Emiliano reminds him that he can confide in him.

Paloma is talking to herself and Inaki while looking at a picture of them with Emiliano. She believes that she has finally broken the curse that has plagued the family. My aunts only fell in love once, but I can love again. Inaki is my first love and my first illusion. But it was my aunt Macarena who told me to accept him as a friend and then we became novios. And when he was gone he left me in the hands of Emiliano. The man that I love very much. When we get married we'll go to Spain to visit Carmen. I will finally get to know your country. You will always be a part of our lives.

Angelica invites Aaron to the party. He cannot go. All he thinks about is Paloma. Angelica tells him that he will eventually get over her. He just needs to go out and meet other people. He declines again, but Inez says that she'll love to go. Angelica agrees.

Cristobal talks to god and says that he is so happy. The signal that he gave him assured him that he is doing the right thing. He knows that he can count on god's blessing. He has showed him unconditional love. He wants god to tell him what other path he can take to still serve him. And thanks god for letting him live with the woman that he loves.

Carlota is at Inez with a couple of other woman going over some paperwork. The other ladies leave to get snacks while Inez asks Carlota how Macarena is doing. Fine replies Carlota. Inez says that she saw her at the church this morning. Carlota says Macarena is so bullheaded. The doctor told her not to leave the house. Inez says going to mass never hurt anyone. Especially to go see Padre Juan (Cristobal). He is so handsome. Carlota asks if he gave the mass? No replies Inez. But Pedro told me that he has come back.

Emiliano is talking with Padre Juan (Cristobal) about the soccer team they were planning to set up. Padre Juan says that at this time he has some important decisions to make and it may affect the plans that they had. But he'll let him know. Emiliano tells him that Paloma is on board with taking the girls under her wing. Cristobal is happy with that. Anything new? Emiliano tells him not to ask anything because he cannot lie to him. He will tell him, but not now. Just know that my happiness has to do with her.

Macarena is at home praying to the virgincita. She hopes that Paloma will accept Cristobal and to find the words to tell her that he is her father.

Joel wants to show Rafael some designs, but declines. He is too jealous to concentrate.

Macarena goes to Paloma's room to talk and sees her asleep. Macarena tells her that things are going to change and she will be able to give her everything that she needs. Her father.

Camila and Orlando come back to the hotel. Camila complains about her feet and Orlando says he'll massage them for her. She tells him to pack his suitcase so they can leave. I already did replies Orlando as he starts kissing her all over her face. Well, I have to pack mine responds Camila. Orlando ever the gentlemen says okay and goes to his room. She tells herself to make a decision.

Romina is driving home and wonders why she can control German, but not Emiliano. There both men and she is an attractive woman. I have done so many fun things with German though I prefer to do them with you Emiliano. She's pissed that he has not called her and probably doesn't even realize that she's in Mexico City. She wonders under what pretext she can call him with. She calls him up. He's in the office unpacking things for the party. Romina calls him and says she just called to see if he missed home. He tells her not to worry about it. Romina whines some more and he tells her that he has to go and hangs up. She is pissed. Angelica asks if he invited Paloma to the party. Emiliano doesn't think that her aunt will allow it. But soon things will change. Angelica smiles. (I think she has figured out that he and Paloma are novios or close to it anyway).

Diana complains to Inez that she cannot come up with a good reason not to go to the party. Inez tell her eating shrimp is a crazy idea. (Sounds like she may be allergic.) Inez reminds Diana that the last time she ate shrimp she got very sick. Diana says that she will take precautions, but this is the only way. Inez says eventually Orlando will have to meet Emiliano's mother. Just go and confront him. Don't ruin your life. Diana says that her life is nothing if Orlando discovers her. He will tell Rafael everything and he will believe it all. Inez says then leave here. You are playing with fire and you will get burned.

Macarena is helping Rufi clean the kitchen and singing again. Rufi asks what's up? I just love Paloma replies Macarena. You always have responds Rufi. Macarena leaves to make a phone call.

Cristobal is trying to call someone, but the line is busy. Suddenly he hears Carlota's voice behind him. She says (in a husky voice) finally we see each other again. Cristobal is muy impactado.

German calls Orlando back. What's up asks German. Orlando tells German that he and Camila are in Mexico City and found out that he and Romina are together. German tells Orlando that he just got out of a meeting and doesn't know where Romina is. They just met by chance. He did accompany her to find her father, but that's it. Then he went to work and she must have driven back to Real de Monte. They hang up. Orland tells Camila that German doesn't know where Romina is at. Figures she went back to Real de Monte. Camila wants to leave immediately. Her daughter is going to get a piece of her mind. German calls Romina and leaves a message that her mother found out that they were together in Mexico City. He denied it to avoid problems. Call me so that I can explain to you better.

Cris: Yes, we see each other again. Did you think that you got rid of me with your lies? As you can see you didn't. I returned to find that Macarena was still alive and that your evil plans did not work.
Car: But you came back as a priest. So yes it did work. You and her will no longer be together.
Cris: And that makes you happy?
Car: You fell for the wrong woman. Macarena is much to weak for you. You deserved a woman like me.
Cris: That would have been a grave mistake. Do you think your superior to everyone else? You think no one is better than you and that has been your punishment.
Car: My punishment has been to love you. Because all these years I have not been able to forget it.
Cris: I have never loved you. I have never given you any hope that I felt the same as you. I ask myself when you confused my offer of friendship with love.
Car: I was not confused. I am sure that you loved me. But you saw me so above you that you did not try to get close. Or confess your love. So that is why you chose Macarena.
Cris: You are so wrong, Carlota. I was never interested in you as a woman. The presence of your sister filled it for me. I did not have eyes for anyone else. And if she had never existed, I would never have loved someone like you. (Carlota slaps him)

Diana and Inez are at a restaurant. Diana can't believe anyone would like shrimp. It smells so horrible. Inez tries to talk her out of it, but Diana is determined.

Car: You were very attentive to me and a gentleman. So don't you dare say that you were never interested in me.
Cris: One belives what they want to believe. And if it was true, it does not convience me to say it now. But the only woman I have loved and will love is your sister.
Car: Don't tell me that you are going to leave everything for her?
Cris: And if that were the case?
Car: You do not want to confuse me, Cristobal. My sister is a done woman. She can never wake up passion. You can leave the priesthood, but not for her. For me. (she is all over him at this point)
Cris: Even if I never became a priest, you will never have been an option for me. And for your own good, it's best that you accept that.
Car: You cannot cut me out of your life. Especially now that I have found you. I don't care that your a priest. For me there are no impossibilites. And I will show you. I did not wait so long to just lose you again.
Cris: Carlota please. Don't be silly. You cannot lose what you never had. And I have never been yours. NEVER!

Macarena is so happy and talking to herself in her room. She has to tell someone about Cristobal or she'll go mad. She calls Camila. Camila tells Macarena what is going on. What about you asks Camila. Macarena tells her that she is very happy, but does not want to tell her over the phone. They make plans to meet up the next day.

Romina goes to Diana's apartment and recieves German's message. She's pissed. She yells for Juanita to take her packages to her room. Juanita tells her that Diana is sick in bed and does not want a doctor or Emiliano. Romina actually looks concerned and goes to see her.

Joel looks at the champagne that Rafael bought for the party. Joel wonders if he's doing better. He knows that Camila will be there with Orlando and Diana will be alone. Joel says to tell him everything that happened tomorrow. Rafael tells him that he is going with him tonight.

Romina tells Diana that she looks bad. Diana tells her that she is allergic to shrimp and must have eaten it without knowing. Romina wants to know how long it will be before she's better. Diana says I took my medicine and in a couple of days I will be better. I just feel bad that I can not go to the party tonight. Are you going asks Diana. Did he invite you? No replies Romina.

Paloma is rushing out and Emiliano calls her. Paloma mentions Carmen is in town and they talk about her and how Inaki's death affected her. He wishes that she can come to the party. Paloma says she cannot, but wishes she could. One day soon she will be at his side.

Camila lays into Romina. How can you go to Mexico City all by yourself. Romina tells her that she does not have to tell her anything. She is free to do what she wants. Camila tells her she's free to do what she wants when she's independent. If you want to do what you want and live the way you want, fine. Just do it right. If you are going to yell at me then it's best that you go replies Romina. Camila says not until you hear everything I have to tell you. Now answer me, what was German doing in Mexico City with you? Nothing replies Romina. I ran into him. He offered to go with me to find my father and that's all. I don't believe you responds Camila. For a while now there has been something between you two. It's such a strange coincidence that you ran into him in Mexico City. The biggest city in the world. Romina tells her to think whatever she wants. Camila can't believe that Romina is treating her this way. She is going to find her father and bring him to her. Then he can answer all her questions. Good idea replies Romina. But do it soon. I want to finalize what I want to do with my life.

Paloma is in painting class and Aaron goes to see her. She comments that it's been awhile. He says he has been working a lot and has been thinking about them. Yes, replies Aaron. I wondered if I can just see you as a friend. And asks Paloma. This little guy convinced me replies Aaron giving her a huge stuffed animal. Paloma thanks him. She really cares for him a lot and did not want to lose him. Either did I want to lose you replies Aaron.

Camila hopes that Romina is not disillusioned when she meets her father. I hope one day you realize what I did for you.

Macarena goes to visit Emiliano. She just wanted to thank him for everything he did when Paloma found out about her being her real mother . And to bring back the clothes he let Paloma borrow. Emiliano tries to down play his role, but Macarena insists that he did a lot for her and Paloma. She is happy that they are together. She believes that Paloma could not be in better hands. I have a lot of confidence in you. Your story is much like mine. One word of advice though. Be careful of Romina. A girl like her sometimes does not realize the pain she is causing. Take care of Paloma and don't let anything hurt her. And love her a lot. She deserves the best in life. Emiliano thanks Macarena for her confidence in him. And don't worry. I love Paloma and I will do anything.

Cristobal is taking off his alter dress and it looks like for the last time. He kneels to pray. He tells god that he is resigning and thanks him for bringing him and Macarena together in spite of an evil woman who wanted to separate them.

Carlota is crying in her room. Ugly crying face.

Tomorrow: Cristobal proposes to Macarena and looks like a kiss will finally happen.

Labels: amor

Just so everybody knows - I am making an executive decision and calling the line-up thus:

8-8:30: Me (Melinama, now seem to have a new screen name Chapel Hill Fiddler)
8:30-9: Julie
9-9:30: Kat
9:30-10: Jardinero
10-10:30: Jody
10:30-11:Chris

If it runs over Chris will take the overflow.

I realize the segments won't end exactly at the half-hour. Feel free to start a little before your time and end a little after your time - overlap is fine.

Instead of collating the entries, I suggest we each post separately adding a "Part One" "Part Two" ... "Part Six (finale)" to our title.

Labels: manana

Fr. Bosco reminds Ed that he’s in great danger, but Ed says he’s safe for now, but that he knows AB will give the order to kill him, but he’s worth more alive now than dead. 

Just then, Artemio Bravo tells his henchman, Borja, Franco is Ed and  that Ed has 24 hours and not a minute more, and as soon as I tell you kill him and keep me informed about everything you do.

Santi, meanwhile wants to kill Camilo.  Fer talks some sense into him and tells him that they have to direct their energy at resolving their problems.Tomasa tells Fer and Santi that Barb isn’t there and she’s taking to opportunity to tell them that Marcario died.  She finally got that off her chest.

Fr. Bosco wants to know for how much longer Ed can hide his identity.  Ed says he doesn’t fear death nor does he fear confronting Fer.  Imagine how Fer will react when she finds out.  The mask of Franco Santoro has succeeded.  He might as well have said the Mask of Zorro.  It’s that melodramatic.  She will hate me for the rest of my life.  It’s the lie.  He will find Aurora and then disappear.

Tomasa tells Fer and Santi about how Marcario was found in the ditch at the country house.  Lights begin to go on in Fer’s head.  Tomasa tells her that Barb ordered her not to say anything.  Santi and Fer think alike.  Fer says that Barb probably had something to do with that death.

Ed will get into the prison.  Fr. Bosco says he can get in and talk to Damian Gallardo.  Ed says no.  Ed tells him that Artemio Bravo can order the death of anybody he wants, including you.  Bosco orders him to sit down and listen to what he has to say.  He feels responsible and guilty for what Barbara Greco and Artemio Bravo have done.If there is someone here who has a weight on their conscience it is I.  By getting to Damian he will alleviate his pain.  Flashback to when Don Jeronimo ordered Ana to leave.  Soledad found the birth certificate and knew the truth from when she was a child.  He knew from the moment that Barb arrived that she knew that Soledad knew the story of Ana Gregoria.  He was under the confessional seal.  He kept silence for your good – he became an accomplice to all the tragedies that followed.  He didn’t have the guts to talk to Gonzalo and tell him what was happening.  He was stopped by a confession.  Ed is grateful Fr. Bosco spilled his guts.  That is why he is begging him to visit Damian and to find out where Aurora is being hidden.

Fer has just found out that Marcario’s death occurred a few days after she was there with Franco.  They can’t understand how evil she is.  Santi says Macario saw something and that Barb had to kill hm.  Santi wants to find out if any of the campesinos in the area saw Barb with Marcario.  Fer says Barb must spend the rest of her life in jail.

At the jail, Damian is roughing up Barb a little.  He then turns on the charm and demands a conjugal visit.  Barb cringes.  He tells her prisoners often sell their honeys for money.  He begins to undress her.  She pulls away and wants to know what he wants.  He says he doesn’t want any money.  He wants her to be sorry and wants to know who the hell is Aurora.

Fr. Bosco is at the prison to see Damian.  Inspector Lazoyo sends a guard to get Damian.  The inspector is very proud to have known Fr. Bosco so long.  Barb tells Damian she’s never been so honest and that she guarantees to get him set free. She admits she’s used him a couple of times. And, why, he wants to know.  He wants to finish her off for all her betrayals and times humiliations and evil deeds.  She says she speaks seriously.  She will get him out.  Her offer doesn’t interest him.  He tortures her by telling her that he wants to enjoy her, planning minute by minute and day by day, how he can do her more damage.  He will punish her until she begs him on her knees to bring her child to her.  Now, we can begin preliminary negotiations, says Damian.

Artemio Bravo talks to his henchman who is spying on Jacinto’s house.  Borja awaits the order to fire.  Outside of Jacinto’s house, Fer talks to Franco who tells her that Fr. Bosco went to talk to Damian.  Fer wants to know if he’ll succeed.  Ed once again says we have to find Aurora and get rid of Barb.  Fer tells him that Marcario was found dead in a ditch and that she is sure that Barb is involved.  Pretty soon her father will find out everything.

At Casa Elizalde, Gonzo’s attorney tells him that Camilo will never get out of prison because Rebeca Sanchez filed a complaint against Camilo accusing him of raping Aurora.  He can’t get Cami out on bond.  Gonzalo appears to have a heart attack.

Damian's first demand is that Fer come to visit him.  He tells Barb to convince her and that he will tell her where Aurora is located.  The guard knocks on the conjugal cell and tells Damian that Fr. Bosco is there to see him.

Fer and Franco continue discussions about getting Camilo free, but Fer tells him her brother is a disgrace and that Santi might try to kill him.  Flor calls Fer and tells her that a tragedy has happened.  Fer rushes out and Franco volunteers to go to the hospital with her.

Lili, Margarita and Martina are playing outside and Lili flashes back to her childhood when she played with Ed, and she remembers Soledad.  Margarita is going to make a lot of tomales with the corn.  So, what was the point of this little bucolic scene?

Bosco tells Damian that he must wonder why he is there.  Fr. gets right to the point.  Where is Aurora.  Damian wants to know why so many people are interested in her.  He says the father is a holy person who doesn’t lie and who hasn’t killed anyone or fooled anyone, and he wants to know why her.  Damian now stoops to political moves to bargain for her.  Fr. saysit is your duty for your soul.  Damian says I will tell only Fernanda Elizalde Aurora’s location.

Damian returns to Barb and says, he’ll make a deal – him for Aurora.  Barb says the others want  to take Aurora from her – Santi and Fer.  Barb begs him.  She says she is in his hands, and she begs him for help. 

The lawyer tells Fer and Franco that Gonzo had a heart attack.  Fer wants to know if Gonzo will survive.  The attorney tells him that the news about Camilo affected her father.  He tells her about the complaint of Rebeca Sanchez.  Beams of light appear around FrEd.  With all the melodrama worthy of a silent movie, Ed says, “Barbara Greco, la hiena.”

At the jail, the guard enters and says time's up.  Damian’s parting words are:  “Send Fernanda.”  He wonders what secret Barb is hiding.

Fer says that Barb knew that what she did would affect her father.  Ed wonders what was the point in revealing her true identity.  Fer says Barb wants to recover Aurora at any price and to ruin her family at any price.

Lucio tries to feed Aurora something and makes a move on her.  Cousin Jacobo pulls him off her and tells Lucio that he’s under orders to protect her.  Lucio leaves and Jacobo tells Aurora not to worry.  Jacobo also cleans up and says he’ll bring her more food.  Aurora flashes back to what Damian said to her about obeying orders.  She’s afraid for her baby.

El licenciado calls Barb and tells her about Gonzo’s heart attack. He tells her that Gonzo is alive.  She says she’s relieved, hah hah.  She wishes him dead.  The only thing she’s interested in is her daughter.

Fer goes in to see Gonzo.  Ed asks the nurse about Gonzo’s condition.  The nurse says he needs absolute rest in order to recover.

Fer calls out to her papa and tells him he has to rest.  He tells her about Camilo.  He says silence will kill him.  She says don’t say more.  He repeats that Rebeca Sanchez filed the complaint and he asks Fer if she knows that woman.Fer tells Gonzo that Rebeca Sanchez is Aurora’ mother.  But, says Gonzalo, he thought Aurora didn’t have any family.  Fer tells him that she found out her mother and father were alive.     Gonzo remembers that Aurora is expecting a baby, his grandchild. 

 Bar is back with Artemio Bravo.  Bar tells AB that if Fernanda finds Aurora first, she will take Aurora away from us.  He corrects her and says she’ll take Aurora away from you.  She tells AB that she’s the only person who can reunite him with her child.  He asks her where she’s getting this family spirit. She hates him, but he’s the only person who can help her get Aurora.  She doesn’t trust Franco because he’s with Fernanda.    Barb says that child is the only bond that has survived in their hearts and that in spite of everything , he can’t kill her.  Barb wants to know what he wants.  AB wants her to help get rid of the rest of Elizaldes.  She tells him that Gonzo had a heart attack.  He accepts her offer, but, he will now act  and deliver the final blow.

Fr. Bosco Calls Franco and tells him that he needs to talk  to Fer and that he should bring her to him asap.  Fer enters and tells Franco that Gonzo is lucid, but weak, and that he knows what Barbara Greco did.  She didn’t tell daddy Barbra’s true identity.  Franco tells her that Fr. Bosco wants to see her at the parish office.  Fer says that she can’t leave her father alone. Fer makes a call.

Meanwhile Santi, on his own Mission Impossible mission, is scoping out the woods and sees a man with a donkey.  He stops to talk.

Fer can’t reach Santi.  Fer doesn’t want to leave.  Enter Gardenia.  Fer says she must have fallen from the sky.  She tells Gardenia to stay with Gonzo and not leave under any circumstances.  She and Franco have an appointment with Fr. Bosco.  Of course, Gardenia swears she won’t leave the room.

Artemio Bravo’s spy, who looks like an oversized Sherlock Holmes,  tails Fer and Franco out of the hospital.

Jacobo takes Aurora’s photo for his cousin to send to Barbara Greco.  Lucio, the slimeball, is back.

Barb is at Gonzo’s bedside and says I hope  you die you old decrepit man. Gardenia heard her and tells her that she will not leave.  Barb grabs Gardenia by the arm and tries to shove her out of the room.  Gardenia puts up a good show, but she is out of her league here.  Barb is curious about where Fer and Franco went.  She goes out to use her phone.

At Bosco’s, the priest tells Fer that she must be very worried about her father.  Fer tells him that Gardenia is taking care of him.

Gardenia says a small prayer for God to save don Gonzo who, in her opinion, is a good man.  The hyena on the other hand is the most evil.  A nurse enters and tells Gardenia to leave because the doctor who is with her has to examine the patient.  They tell her to go the cafeteria, and Gardenia leaves. 

Artemio Bravo opens the door next to Gonzo’s room and stares his evil stare into the camera.  We are not impressed.

Artemio looks at Gonzo asleep in his bed and closes the blinds. Is this Mexican ICU?  Gonzo turns his head and opens his eyes and sees Artemio and asks him if he knows him.  Artemio says, “yes.”  But Gonzo doesn’t remember him.  Artemio says he doesn’t have to remember him.  This isn’t a social visit and I’m interested in the state of your health.  Gonzo wants to know who he is.  I am Artemio Bravo, your brother.    Mystery music.

Bosco pardons the delay – he had to talk to the men who agreed to be his guards.  Franco tells Fer that AB tried to kill Fr. Bosco.

Artemio says he’s really Artemio Elizalde.  He asks Gonzo if he didn’t notice the resemblance.  Gonzo wants to know what he’s doing there.  AB says blood doesn’t make them brothers.  He didn’t come to say hello nor be cordial with him or his family.  He came to disillusion him.  When he found out Gonzo had a heart attack,he was afraid.  Because he was afraid Gonzo might be dead.  He didn’t want Gonzo to die without finding out the truth about himself.  Even though we have the same father two things separate us, we are abysmally different.  Our mother’s blood and the truth – I was raised in the mud of truth and since I was born you lived a life of lies.  How old where you when you found out that death, like truth, arrives sooner or later.     He wants Gonzo to listen to everything he has to say.

Fer says, Damian doesn’t know that Aurora is Barb’s daughter.  Franco tells her they have an advantage to negotiate with him.  The condition is that Fernanda go to the jail to speak with him.

Ana Gregoria Bravo, continues Artemio, my mother, but he hates to remembers an Elizalde memory.  Her beauty was a damnation because don Jeronimo used her.  Mother wrote a diary and told how day by day she fell in love, and he seduced her.  Artemio tells him how Jeronimo abandoned Ana Gregoria and that his mother cast her out.  He would have brought the diary, but Lili gave it to Franco.  Lili was in his house and Franco negotiated her freedom.  He felt tenderness for her, but she was just another Elizalde who betrayed him.  He tells Gonzo that he planned Lili’l kidnapping.  Gonzo asks about Obregon.  AB says he didn’t have anything do to with this.  The person who helped him was Barbara Greco, the killer of Montserrat, your children’s mother.  The heart monitor is going crazy.  Gonzo yells out, “No, no.”End of chapter

Labels: manana

Paloma asks Carlota to keep the secret about Macarena, nobody else can know she’s . . . who she is. Paloma mentions that Mac has agreed to tell her little by little about her past and Paloma’s father, which surprises (and presumably displeases) the Purple One.

Cristobal prays and thinks back to the reunion with Macarena in her hospital room. Suddenly the rays of light shining on the floor glow and make the shape of an “M”; he looks up at the crucifix and smiles.

Liliana walks with Angelica and wonders if there’s some way to make her not think of German anymore, it still hurts a lot not to be with him, and Angelica replies that only time is the answer, although sometimes not even that is enough. Angelica suggests that Lili not think about him, try to think of something else, or go out with someone else and meet people. Lili mentions that she is going with someone but doesn’t want to be dishonest. Ange says give yourself time. Lili asks if something similar happened to her and Ange admits yes, it almost destroyed her life, but she realized she could be interested in someone else. That someone isn’t interested in her, but at least it helps her not to keep thinking about the other guy. They stop to buy popsicles, cuz Ange says they’re the best for easing one’s pain.

I’m not sure I got this next scene right so feel free to correct me. Joel comes to Camila’s shop to ask Monica out but she says she can’t, she has a personal matter to take care of. After he leaves she tells Meche that’s the first and last time she sees her with Joel—she didn’t accept because he caught her by surprise and it made her so nervous that he must think there’s someone else. Monica admits that in a way, there is someone else.

Orlando and Camila are at the cafe while he tells Emiliano on the phone that they’re going to Mexico City to look for Romina, so Emil is in charge of the business and should finish organizing the party (which Orly had forgotten about until Emil reminded him) with Angelica. Camila offers to go by herself but Orlando says no way. Camila tries calling Romina again but just gets her voice mail.

Joel glumly tells Rafael about his suspicion that Monica is going out with someone else--history is repeating itself. Is it so hard to find someone who’s only for me? Yeah, tell me about it, Rafa sympathizes. Changing the subject, he hands Joel the paperwork for their business partnership and if it looks good they’ll take it to the notary and sign ASAP.

I guess Real del Monte is close to the capital because Orlando and Camila are already at Roberto’s (Samuel’s former roommate). Roberto has filled them in about how Sam’s a mooch; Camila says poor Romina when she finds out. Roberto comments that Camila and Romina are the best that life gave to Sam, and he didn’t know how to keep them, and that Sam was never at Camila’s level. He mentions that Romina had been there with German, which causes Camila to look somewhat impactada.

Romina and German shop for clothes at the mall and she gives him a hard time when he balks at buying her another pair of shoes. He caves and says ok, but see if they have deferred payment or something like that--he claims he doesn’t want to max out his credit card.

Here’s another conversation I didn’t really understand. For some reason Diana is wearing a raincoat indoors while on the phone with the lawyer her friend recommended--Diana says she doesn’t want a divorce and when the lady replies that she gets people divorced, not reconciled, Diana says she thought perhaps she’d (the lawyer) have some secret. Anyway, if it comes to a divorce, she wants to him to regret having been born. The lawyer asks the reason for the separation and Diana has no idea, since she’s such a good wife. She thinks he’s seeing someone else. The lawyer requests that Diana gather up anything she can that will serve as proof against Rafael, and when they see each other, to pay her for this consultation. Diana is appalled at this.

Angelica brings Emiliano a popsicle and he asks her about the mother superior coming to see her--she explains about being offered her old job back but she declined. He’s glad and is sure Orlando wouldn’t have wanted her to leave. This makes Ange hopeful but is immediately bummed out when Emil informs her that she’s needed to help organize the company party since Orly went to Mexico City with Camila.

Paloma gives Macarena her medicine and reminds her that she has to take care of her health. They discuss Emiliano and how Paloma accepted him after she found out Romina was secretly going out with German. Paloma loves Emil and he loves her, and they’re going to fight for their love (hmm, that sounds like a big fat anvil to me). Paloma thinks it won’t be easy, but she’s not afraid. Macarena notes that many times fear can paralyze you, like what happened to me with Carlota and with you. Paloma vows that what happened to Mac will never happen to her.

Emiliano tells Angelica he’s not sure if Orlando and Camila are novios or Camila is as interested in Orly as he is in her. They discuss the party plans and he tells her she can invite someone. Ange explains that there aren’t any guys in her life--there was one once, but it was so complicated that she doesn’t want to get into those problems again. That’s why she came to a place like Real del Monte, where she’d have time to think about her book. Emiliano comments, so it was a form of escape. Ange admits that the change of scenery has been good for her.

Rufi tells Macarena and Paloma that in two months Edmundo is going to come back for her answer. She’s not sure what she’s going to say; she thinks no, but she didn’t dare give a definite no, because she doesn’t want to regret it. But she doesn’t think she’ll be able to get used to living anywhere else. Mac asks if she’s going to tell Carlota and Rufi says no way. She’s going to erase Edmundo from her mind for the next two months, and when/if he comes back, she’ll do what her heart tells her.

Camila and Orlando are at dinner and still don’t get an answer when they call Romina. Camila doesn’t like that Romi’s with German. Although Orlando says he’s a good guy, there’s just something about him Cami doesn’t like. Orly suggests they order first and later go to a bar or somewhere else instead to distract herself for awhile. Camila thinks she must not be good company right now and he assures her that her company is always enjoyable for him. And yours for me, she replies, and thanks him for everything he’s doing.

As Padre Benito closes the church for the night, Cristobal comes up and tells him that he has made a decision.

Macarena prays about how she’d be able to tell Paloma about Cris and vice versa if he wasn’t a priest, and she’d be able to do with him what Rodolfo proposes, go to a place where nobody knows them and live as a happy family.

The next day Emiliano is waiting on the street for Paloma to walk by so he can accompany her to school. He tells her that each day she’s more beautiful and it’s very difficult to be without her. She thanks him again for his help with Macarena. He gives her a cell phone so they can communicate in secret. They’re all kissy and giddy, which to me signals “anvil alert!”

Carlota stomps through the house yelling for Mac and Rufi and is all put out that they left without telling her.

Rufi and Macarena go to church while Rufi worries that the doctor will scold both her and Mac for letting Mac leave the house. Mac says she had to come to thank God and the virgin for Paloma forgiving her. They come upon Cris out front so Rufi goes inside.

Paloma and Liliana talk about Romina and that now Pal doesn’t see her the same as she did before since she found out about Romi and German. Paloma isn’t going to say anything about it to Romi, but knowing it helped her to . . . Lili wants to know and says they can be friends now that Pal isn’t such good friends with Romi anymore. Paloma mentions that Emiliano must not know about Romina & German since he’s staying at the latter’s house. Lili thinks Pal should tell him but Pal doesn’t want to hurt him. Lili says Pal and Emil would make a great couple and to count on her if she needs a hand.

Ines comes in looking for Mac so Rufi tries to stall her in order to keep her from discovering and interrupting Mac and Cris’ conversation. After Ines leaves, Carlota comes in so Rufi tells her that Mac went to the dispensario. She wonders what Carlota’s doing there since there’s no mass. Carlota pretends she’s on her way to the parish office, then orders Rufi home.

More giddy mooning between Paloma and Emiliano--he sends her a text that he misses her while she’s in class and she replies “me too”. Then the nun calls on her to go to the mother superior’s office. Paloma looks scared and wonders if they saw her outside with Emiliano.

Macarena asks Cris about his retreat in Mexico City, is he going back there? He answers that he’s in Real del Monte to stay, he made a decision that’s going to completely change his life. He wants to be a free man, for her and for their love.

Carlota wanders the church looking for Padre Juan (Cristobal) and one of the ladies tells her that she doesn’t think he’s back yet, she hasn’t seen him in a few days. As Carlota’s about to leave Padre Mateo walks by with the janitor so she hides behind the corner. He’s on his way out and since he doesn’t mention Cris to the janitor she thinks he must not be back, and asks “Why did you leave? I have to see you”.

Cris tells Mac that he loves her with all his soul, and for her he will return to being Cristobal and not Padre Juan. Macarena immediately says he can’t leave the church, he promised to serve God. Cris assures her that he’ll continue to serve him, but in a different way, at her side if she’ll let him. Macarena frets that she can’t allow him to give up his vocation for her. Cris explains to Mac that she was, is and will be the love of his life, and his love for her is much stronger than everything. He’s sure that it’s with her that he should be and wants to be. Mac continues to worry and do her best to foil this romantic moment by saying she can’t take Cris away from God. But you’re not taking anything away from him--not only did he bring me back to you, he also sent me a signal (Cris goes on to explain the “M” he saw). My destiny is to be at your side.

German is on the phone with Cesar, the lawyer with whom he’s doing some shady business. Cesar asks how much money they have to give him (and when) so that his client wins and German’s client loses. German says tell your client that it’ll be a pleasure not to send him to jail. After he hangs up Romina comes in and says he’ll take her shopping again. He’ll indulge her, but first she’s going to indulge him (ewwwww)--he wants a roll in the hay with Romi and when she asks if he has a condom, he says yeah, later. Meanwhile, her phone vibrates (presumably her mom trying to call again).

Macarena doesn’t know what to say, she can’t believe this is happening, she doesn’t know if she should or can accept him leaving the preisthood. Cris tells her not to resist, don't resist that happiness that they deserve so much. It’s his decision, not hers. She’s tries to put on her worry wart hat again, “but I’m the cause,” but Cris tells her no, you’re the love. He confesses that before renouncing the priesthood he wanted to renounce her, but he couldn’t. Now, for them to be able to be together only depends on her.

The mother superior thanks Paloma for opening her eyes regarding Angelica and believes she was unfair with Paloma, what Pal did didn’t deserve the punishment she gave her. She informs Paloma that she’s going to give her scholarship back (for the school) and return the money she paid.

Cris explains to Mac that when he first got the order to return to Real del Monte, he didn’t want to go, and had even thought of leaving the priesthood then because he couldn’t comply with the order. But he came back because that was how God arranged it; he thought God wanted him to bury his past and all the ghosts that had tormented him for years. But he never imagined finding her. It could also be a test of your faith, suggests Macarena. And it has been, Cris replies. He reminds her that there are many ways to serve God--the priesthood is one way, but not the only one. Through true love and marriage I can also serve him. Mac stutters, you’re talking about us getting married? Yes, and he sees that she continues to love him as much as he loves her, that finding each other also changed her world. She admits that it did, and not only did it revive her love for him, but also helped her to prove all of Carlota’s evilness and to discover that it was Carlota and not destiny that separated them. Cris tells her that true love always triumphs, and not even Carlota’s lies could extinguish this love that has resisted time and distance. Mac agrees--Carlota didn’t win, love won, the truth won. (Oh dear, I fear that’s another anvil just teetering away.)

Camila and Orlando are in the hotel lobby as Camila tries to call Romi again but gets no answer. Orly tries too with the same result. Orly asks what she wants to do, Camila says she wants to wait a bit longer, she needs to find Romina before returning home. Orlando suggests that in the meantime they tour the city, go shopping, etc. Just behind them, German and Romi come out of the elevator but of course they don’t see them.

Macarena admits she contemplated the idea of Cris leaving the church, but it was an illusion, and now no puede creer that the possibility of them being together and happy is a reality. Cris says he’ll only need a few days to talk with his superiors. She tells him to take all the time he needs--we've waited this long, what’s a few more days? (ugh, another anvil invitation!) He reveals that he wasn’t thinking of telling her until he’d already left the priesthood, but he’d just returned from the retreat and she was the first person he saw (well, except for that girl he was talking to in front of the church when Mac and Rufi walked up, but who’s counting). Cris says as soon as he leaves the priesthood they can shout it to the world. Mac is so happy and grateful to God--Cris is thankful to God too, for giving him this gift of being able to have the rest of his life with her.

Liliana congratulates Paloma on getting her scholarship back. Pal says nothing can be done now about a university scholarship but Liliana points out that the letter of recommendation (that the mother superior said she will give her) will help. Pal mentions going to the university in Pachuca, and Lili says she thought Pal wanted to go to the capital to get away from her aunt. Pal doesn’t know and Lili wonders if Emiliano has something to do with it. Paloma mumbles something about being open, and being a lawyer (for Lili it’s doctor). Lili then suggests they go celebrate.

Macarena prays at church--if it’s God’s will that she and Cris serve him in another way, she’ll accept it and is eternally grateful. If Cris comes back to her, she can tell Paloma he’s her father, and she’ll have a father and mother to defend her and show her that true love can conquer all, and Carlota will be out of their lives.

Emiliano is having dinner with his mom talking about Romina—she wants Romi to feel free to do whatever she wants there (Emil rolls his eyes). He mentions again that he wants her to come to the dedication party at his office and to cut the ribbon, and Orlando wants to meet her. Diana looks nervous but says she’ll be there.

Mac is back at home asking what Carlota was doing at the church--following us? Rufi was afraid Carlota would catch them but Mac thinks maybe it’s better for her to find out once and for all (that she and Cris were talking). Rufi comments that since they left church, Mac has had a smile on her face that she hasn’t seen in a long time. Mac just says going to church makes her feel good. Rufi thinks Mac won’t be able to hide for very long that Cris is Paloma’s father. Mac responds that what God wants to happen, will happen. Now more than ever she believes in his mercy.

Cris is reading a to-do list when the janitor comes in and tells him that Padre Mateo went to Tula and Tulancingo (which rings a bell with me, because the latter is the sister city of Pleasanton, the town where I grew up). Cris is disappointed the padre isn’t there and sighs that it’ll be in God’s time, not his.

Inaki’s mom has come to see Macarena. She only came to town for a few hours to finalize things with the house and to pack a few things. She gives Mac an envelope of papers that she found, she thinks Paloma should have them, but wants Mac to see it first. She’s sure that Mac doesn’t know what it is and it will surprise her.

Previews: Mac tells Paloma she’s going to give her everything she couldn’t give her before; Carlota is freaked out by Mac’s sudden happiness and confronts Cristobal with a Darth Vader-esque “at last, we meet again.”

Labels: amor