Caray, Caray!

Friday’s leftovers: Emiliano is asking the girls to the party for him, and Romina is calling him “novio.” Emiliano says aren’t you moving a little fast and Romina says why not? - let’s give it a try. He’ll pick her up that evening. The school counselor looks on, worried. She pokes her latte with a straw. If boys and girls kissing worries her, she’s in for a rough ride.

Steamy new dishes: In a churchyard, Natalia approaches a priest from behind and says she needs to set up the christening for her daughter. It’s Christobal in his new incarnation as man of the cloth! He turns around and says Natalia? Natalia says ¿Qué haces aquí? Then she says No lo puede creer! You can’t be a priest! Only a week into our story and Natalia has already snagged two of the immortal telenovela lines.

Romina runs home to tell her mama that she and Emiliano are novios already! He came to the school and even kissed her. Mama says you just went out of the first time last night. Isn’t this a bit too speedy? Romina says please please please let me go out with him!

Who’s this guy sitting in a big office? He tells Vero, his secretary, to show Mr. Saenz in. That’s Emiliano to you and me. Okay, this is the Orlando Ferrer we were wondering about.

Natalia is weepy and tells Chris that she assumed she’d never see him again and how it’s weird how life always ties up loose ends. Chris looks all paternal and says how happy he is that she apparently has married and started a family. She says she’s not equally happy about him being a priest, considering that he told her when he totally dumped her that he was a murderer.

Chris rises and looks out the window, so we know he’s thinking Large Thoughts. He says that he’s found the peace that he needed, that he’s found his vocation. God is infinitely merciful and forgiving. He hopes she has forgiven him. Natalia says she’s not the one to do the forgiving, but it still hurts her what he did to her.

I was lost, he says. You don’t know how sorry I am. Natalia says the past is unchangeable, but seeing you now, I guess I’m not mad any more.

Back to Emiliano’s job interview. Orlando says he only came to Real del Monte recently and bought the business. He has big plans for expansion and needs an assistant. He needs somebody who’s interested in art, design, and of course silver, since he wants to export. Emiliano says I’m just the guy! Orlando checks out Emiliano’s resume and is impressed with his academic achievements. He’ll call him later and let him know.

Romina goes to Paloma’s house and tells her that she and Emiliano are novios. Teengirl hugs and squeals. She really wants Paloma to come along to the party tonight and tells her to make some story up. Pretty soon Carlota comes out and snatches Paloma by the hand and tells her she’s not going anywhere, particularly not with Romina, and she drags her into the house.

Romina blasts into the front door and demands of Carlota why she’s so hostile to her. Carlota says because you’re low class. I saw you acting indecently with that boy last night! You are not in the same league as Paloma. Romina says you just don’t want Paloma to be happy. Carlota slaps her and Rufi and Paloma are horrified. Romina slams out.

Paloma demands Why did you insult her? She’s the only friend I have! Carlota says because she’s leading you down the wrong pathway. Paloma yells You don’t want me to be happy – you want me to be locked up, alone, without love, like you!

Go to your room and stay there orders Carlota. Paloma wails it was a cursed day when I lost my parents and was left with you. She runs up the stairs crying. It was your fault they died, Carlota flings after her.

Macarena runs in and says what’s all the shouting? Carlota says she was disrespectful, and she’s super grounded and don’t either you or Rufi un-ground her, understand?

Emiliano comes home and finds his mama about to go play poker with her friends. Perhaps it’s part of her financial plan. She says let’s go out to hear some jazz tonight! He says he’d like to, but there’s a party on and he has a date. Di wants to know all. When she’s hears it’s Romina, she’s thrilled. How serious is it? Emiliano says I just want to get to know her, but it looks like we’re already novios. Di squeals.

Romina is cute and rich! Di can’t wait for Camila and her to be mothers-in-law. Emiliano says don’t get ahead of things.

Outraged Romina is telling her mama what happened. Camila says she’s going to go talk to her, but Romina needs to be respectful. Romina says I was just trying to defend Paloma. Camila says tell me exactly what happened. Romina says I never lie to you. Camila says no? I found out you’re the one who chased after Emiliano, not the other way around. I don’t care that you called him; I care that you lied to me. Romina is repentant.

Rufi and Mac are outside Paloma’s door, trying to give her a cup of tea, but she’s sobbing on her pillows and wants to be left alone. Rufi says maybe if Paloma had a cell phone, Carlota couldn’t find out when she received calls. She could talk to her girlfriends and not be so lonely. Mac smiles.

It’s gotten dark. Paloma awakens and remembers Romina’s words and her argument with Carlota. She goes to the closet and takes out the forbidden dress. She takes it and sneaks out. Rufi hears the door slam, looks out, and sees her disappearing into the street.

Romina models her pretty blue party dress for Camila. She wants to know if she’s talked to Carlota. Camila says she wasn’t home – she’s working on the church fair. She’ll go over later and try again.

The doorbell rings. It’s not Emiliano, it’s Paloma. Romina looks mad. Paloma says don’t be mad at me for Carlota slapping you. I don’t want to lose you as a friend. Romina says don’t worry, I love you, and I don’t want her to see us fight. Romina gets excited when she finds out Paloma has snuck out and is coming to the party.

Rufi tells Mac that Paloma went over to Romina’s. They hope it’s just to apologize to her.

Emiliano shows up. Romina calls Paloma to come down. Camila is surprised she got permission to come. Paloma descends the stairs. Her hair is down and she has on the dress which if you ask me is dull brown and looks dowdy. Emiliano doesn’t think so and looks stunned and tells her she’s lovely. Romina frowns.

Rufi and Mac are worried that Romina isn’t back yet. The doorbell rings and they wind through the big house to answer. It’s Camila. No, Carlota isn’t home yet. Camila says she can’t allow her to insult and hit her daughter. Mac agrees with her and apologizes for Carlota.

Camila says she’s too hard on Paloma and it’s time somebody told her so. Mac advises her not to try, it’s a waste of time. She says it’s better Camila not try to see Carlota because she doesn’t want Carlota insulting her too.

Mac says she’s glad the girls are friends. Camila says she is too, and she thinks Paloma is a good influence on Romina. The two ladies bond. Mac wants to know if Paloma is still at Camila’s, and Camila says yes, but they’re about to go to the party. It’s great Paloma got permission and she looks so lovely in that dress. Mac goes gulp.

We’re at the party. German knows Romina, but not Paloma. He introduces people, including Iñaki, who he says is from Spain, here for the jazz festival. Later, German says to Romina so you’re Emiliano’s novia, huh?

Paloma politely says hello to Inaki and he, like Emiliano, gets a stunned look. Our shy provincial girl must be wearing eau de protagonista.

Carlota comes home from her meeting, cranky. She tells Mac to go get Paloma for dinner. (Meaning to have dinner with them, not to be the main course. Even our puppy killer wouldn’t go that far.) Mac says Pal has a migraine, she gave her a pill and now she’s asleep. Carlota gets squinty eyed.

Back at the party, Paloma is bashful and Inaki is talking to her. He asks if she’s traveled and she explains about the dead parents and the aunts who don’t like to travel. He explains that he’s from Madrid and his parents are divorced. He comes every year for the jazz festival.

Three musicians start up. It’s a haunting song with two guitars and three-part harmony. Inaki stares at Paloma the whole time. She looks down, then gives him tiny looks. By the end of the song, they’re smiling at one another.

The party goers want Inaki to sing. He gets up and Paloma bolts. Emiliano stops her and offers to walk her home, but she says it’s best if she just slips out.

Paloma sneaks into her darkened room, switches on the light and there’s Carlota waiting. So you thought you could fool me? Plus you look like a tramp. Fortunately Mac comes in and says I gave her permission, so get mad at me. Carlota says I don’t want her to turn into someone like you, a nothing, a nobody.

Mac says I want her to find a young man who will give her the love she deserves. Carlota tells them she’s going to drag them to confession and see what the padre says. She leaves and Mac and Paloma weep in each other’s arms.

Emiliano explains to Romina that Paloma has left. Romina says she must’ve been scared to death because of her aunt. Inaki says I have to see her again!

In church, the mass is going on. Carlota makes sure Paloma has confessed. After the service, they are leaving, the aunts lagging behind, and guess who’s waiting! Inaki. Paloma looks scared and in the distance, Carlota looks, and narrows her eyes.

Emiliano and his dad are watching a game on TV. Di is all wound up and wants to hear about Romina. She wants them all to go to lunch together. Emiliano says no, that would make it look like a formal commitment and it’s early days. Di gives up and leaves. Dad, who just now found out about the new girlfriend, tells his son that it’s Di’s way of showing love and concern for him. Emiliano says it feels like she’s trying to control my life.

Outside the church. Inaki tries to ask Paloma out for a coffee, but she scared and says her aunts are around. He says he’ll see her after school – no aunts then. She says okay, and runs back to her aunts. Carlota asks her if she told the padre everything and if he agreed with her, or with Mac. Mac reminds Carlota that the confessional is secret.

Carlota asks Paloma who that boy was she was talking to. Mac tells her it was some foreigner asking directions. Carlota is skeptical, but decides it’s time to start helping at the fair. Paloma gives Mac a big hug. Mac wants to know about Inaki and Paloma explains and says he’s going to meet her after school. Mac urges her to get to know him – that it’s good to have friends even if she’s not romantically interested.

Paloma says that Carlota watches her every move. Mac has a plan.

Romina is primping and her mama comes in and wants to know where they’re going to go eat. Romina says she has a date for lunch. Camila says that’s fine, she’s growing up now, but she wants her to take things slowly so she doesn’t get hurt.

Romina swoons that she’s soooo in love. Camila says it’s not love yet. Going together is just for getting to know one another to see if you’re compatible. Romina is sure they’re fated.

Chris is talking to Padre Benito who seems to be his superior. He reports that the kids are well-prepared for first communion. Padre Benito compliments him on his way with children, then he breaks the news that Chris is being transferred to another parish. Chris is bummed – he wants to keep up his work with the alcohol and drug abuse program. To bad, these decisions come from higher up in the church. Chris says where to? Padre Benito doesn’t know.

But we do!

Romina is having her lunch with Emiliano. He asks if Inaki found Paloma at church. Romina doesn’t know, but she tells him about the aunts who don’t want Paloma to have friends and that Carlota even hates Romina, Paloma’s only friend. They’re a couple of dried-up old spinsters who just want to go to church.

Leaving school, Paloma fills in Romina in on how Mac helped her fend off Carlota. She finds out that Romina was the one who told Inaki that she would be at church. Paloma is all nervous about seeing Inaki.

The school counselor overhears them and asks what’s up. Romina says don’t say anything – she’ll blab to Carlota. The counselor says I won’t and takes Paloma by the arm, all friendly, and says she’s the school psychologist and Paloma can confide in her. Paloma looks doubtful.

Downtown, Camila and Mac are talking. Mac has bought Paloma a cell phone for her birthday (which birthday? – please tell us!) and Camila approves. Mac wants Paloma to have some privacy and some friends. Why, their girls are young women now! Camila says it’s time for us to re-make our lives and says she’s dedicated herself to Romina all these years. We need to find ourselves someone to love. Mac says I understand, but I can’t.

Emiliano gets the job. He’s to start tomorrow.

Romina and Paloma talk about studies. Paloma wants to go to college, but her parents’ money ran out a while ago and her aunt is paying her schooling. Romina says her mother swears Paloma’s parents had a lot of money. Paloma laughs.

Inaki drops from the school fence and hands Paloma a rose. Romina looks droll and, in the background, the counselor is all smiles.

Emiliano drops by German’s office and tells him the good news about his job. German says Orlando’s a good guy, and they should go celebrate with a drink at the bar where Inaki’s playing – he plays a mean sax.

Emiliano wants to know if Inaki’s an okay guy. German says he’s great. He got a master’s in Spain. His father is rich and has business concerns in Mexico and South America. Why does Emiliano want to know? No reason, says Emiliano.

German says he sure is taken with Paloma. I’ve never seen him react to anyone that way. German then noses into how Emiliano came to go with Romina. Emiliano gets vague and waves off the question.

Inaki takes the girls for ice cream. Paloma says she won’t have any because her aunt gets mad if she doesn’t eat her whole dinner. Romina tactfully says she has to run along to her mother’s shop.

Inaki has a new idea. Coffee won’t fill her up. They sit in a coffee place. He wants to take her out to a bar, but she says she’s right in the middle of studying for her exams. He gets her to agree for next week. He stares at her and she lowers her eyes.

Romina is almost home when Carlota pops out of the house and wants to know where Paloma is. I don’t know says Romina. Well, actually I know, but I’m not going to say. I’m talking to you the way you talk to me. You’ll have to find out for yourself.

Emiliano comes home and Di wants to know where he’s been. He gets a bit snappy and then apologizes and says he’s lived alone so long and isn’t used to having to account for every moment of his life. Di says he’s her only son and she’s waited so long for him to come back and that it’s that she loves him so much. He says he needs his privacy. Why, she’s practically got him married off. They laugh and relax.

Di says she likes that Romina isn’t a gold digger. He says he’s not some millionaire. Besides, he doesn’t care about Romina’s money, it’s not what is important for him in a woman. He tells her he got a job. She gets excited, but deflates when she finds out it’s a silver shop.

Paloma realizes it’s 3 o’clock and panics. She has to go! She rummages around in her purse.

Here comes Carlota, a straight-backed one-man posse. Of all the coffee shops in all the world, she has to walk into this one. Sure enough, she spots Paloma and tells her off for being (gasp!) in a coffee shop with (gasp!) a man.

Avances: German puts the moves on Romina and she kisses back. Looks like Emiliano is going to see them.

Labels: amor

Fr/Ed and Fernanda are talking at Fr/Ed’s house, Gonzalo calls each of them in turn to invite them to a Grupo Lactos board meeting.

Gonzalo tells Barbara he included Fr/Ed because it would be Grupo Lactos money used for Lily’s ransom and Fr/Ed is a full board member. I’m surprised Gonz got that point to stick and didn’t cave to whatever Barbara told him to do. First time for everything. Santiago even mentions later this episode to Aurora, about Gonzalo, “he’s just an extended mouthpiece for his wife.” Even his kids know he has no independent will.

Fr/Ed tells Fernanda before they leave that he found out from Adolfina how to contact Obregon, so they should try and find out if he is actually part of Barb’s plan or if Barbara is just using his name to rip off Grupo Lactos.

Venus is dressed up and looking hot for her date with Camilo. Martina tells her how worried she is about the whole situation, she’s scared of Camilo and what might happen. On top of that, Lily won’t do anything but stand and stare out the window, so Martina is all up in arms about everything right now.

At the board meeting, (I’m surprised they jumped right to this, this show usually takes a five minute car ride and turns it into a week of episodes) Fernanda says they shouldn’t pay the ransom. There is no proof that Obregon has Lily. Barbara says that the last time he called her, she heard Lily’s voice in the background. Fr/Ed and Fernanda both shift and make faces when she says this, it’s all they can do to keep their mouths shut about what a huge big fat liar Barbara is. Fr/Ed agrees with Fernanda, so do Santiago and Anibal, but Anibal only because he’s cheap. Camilo keeps making disrespectful comments about his ‘loca’ sister and Gonzalo almost throws him out. Fr/Ed tries to get to the bottom of the whole thing. Who has Obregon talked to? Only Barbara. They have notified the police, right? No, Barbara didn’t want to. Hmm. Nice job by Fr/Ed laying everything at Barbara’s feet. He suggests that the next time Obregon calls, they demand that he provide a photo of Lily holding a dated newspaper to prove he has her. Everyone agrees, even Barb because she has no choice.

Gardenia, also looking hot, even though she is annoying the absolute hell out of me lately, puts her letter on Fr/Ed’s bed, behind a pillow. Someday we’ll find out what’s in it. She speaks to the empty room about her anger and jealousy of Fr/Ed marrying that hussy Erika.

Fr/Ed and Fernanda make up a lame excuse to go to her office and talk in private. On the way out she tells Gonzalo she is calling Flor to bring her back, Anibal starts to whine but Gonzalo shuts him up, telling him that they have proven her innocence so shut up already. After they leave, Santiago says what a great guy this Franco Santoro is, now that he got to know him a little bit today. Camilo and Barbara now take their turn making faces.

Fr/Ed tells Fernanda that they can wait for Barbara to make a move, or they can put out word that Barbara Greco has died! That was supposed to be suspenseful, but it’s just how they will contact Obregon.

Barbara complains to Artemio Bravo about the problem with Lily, and that if she shows up now they lose everything after all her lies.

Martina can’t get any response from Lily, Fr/Ed and Fernanda arrive and have no luck either.

In her office, Barbara teases Damian about Fernanda and her ‘lover.’ He wants to know when all this will be over, she says like you tell a kid, ‘when the time is right.’ She says that they have an appointment later on and after that, Fernanda won’t want to leave him alone at all, she’ll want to spend all her time with him and take care of him. He looks a bit worried since she won’t give him details, but he obviously likes the idea.

Lily sees Ciro out in the yard, glowing like an angel.

Santiago tells Aurora about the board meeting, he is bummed about what a loser family he has. He suggests moving out to a hotel the very next day. PLEASE PLEASE DO IT so the ‘haunting of Aurora’ story can come to an end. Please I beg you please.

Damian and Barbara park their cars (inexplicably) facing each other with the headlights lighting them up like they are on stage. They appear to be in the same parking lot/street where Damian and Fernanda were reunited a while back.

Santiago gets a phone call, it’s Damian and he needs someone to come get him, he doesn’t want to leave where he is alone because he doesn’t feel safe.

Damian wants to know what’s going on, why are they here? Barbara turns her back and pulls out a gun, then turns and shoots Damian while he tries to grab her hand. Too late!

Venus arrives at the bar and talks to Esteve on the phone, going over the plan again. Camilo arrives, slime trailing behind him.

Barbara says ‘see ya’ to Damian and gets in her car and leaves.

Aurora is scared being along in the house (what’s new) and goes looking for Tomasa, not knowing that she got the afternoon off. The kitchen is empty.

Tomasa arrives at Jacinto’s house with tamales (mmmmmmmmmmmmm). Jacinto and Margarita can’t believe La Hiena gave her time off. Tomasa asks for Gardenia and is told she is ‘so happy’ working for Santoro, just like Jacinto.

Fernanda and Fr/Ed go to the office of some small newspaper to place a fake death notice for Barbara, I guess this is the paper Obregon will be checking.

Venus and Camilo have drinks, she goes on and on about what a monster Steve is about her going out, she’s like a prisoner!

Lily won’t eat, she’s in bed now. Martina gives up and leaves. Ciro glows into the room and tells Lily to sleep in peace, which she does, even though the room is as bright as if the sun were in the middle of it.

Venus cries and cries, suckering Camilo in more and more. She shows a little leg to get his interest (and how could it not, let’s be real here) and he is falling for the whole show completely. Her phone rings, she doesn’t answer, then cries about how Esteve is going to kill her for not answering. Camilo gets a phone call, it’s Barbara wanting to know if he’s home yet. He says no, he had a date, remember? She says you have an appointment all right, with ME at the house, get your ass home. He says ok he’ll be there.

Fr/Ed and Fernanda pay for the death notice and leave the little office.

Santiago drives around looking for Damian.

Venus goes to the bathroom to call Esteve, who is happy as hell about the way things are going, he wants details but she keeps telling him that Camilo is leaving. He says that she should agree to wait for him to come back later. She goes back out and says she’ll wait for Camilo to return, but boo hoo her uncle is going to kill her. Camilo lays some slimy “I’ll protcect you” crap on her and leaves. Venus smiles to herself, proud of the job she is doing.

In her car, Barbara calls Gonzalo and says that Obregon called again and is going to call Gonzalo at his office, so he has to stay there. Gonzalo is showing his normal stupidity again and says ok, he’ll stay there.

Fr/Ed gets pulled over, the cop comes up and says the car was reported stolen. I’m a bit confused about this. Fr/Ed produces the papers on the car, then the cop wants his drivers license. Fr/Ed hesitates because his license is in the name ‘Eduardo Juarez’. He gets out and tells the cop he can’t find his license, can’t they just forget all this? The cop says no way, follow me downtown to answer some questions. He says fine and goes back to tell Fernanda to get a cab home, she says como crees hombre she won’t let him go alone, she’s going with him. Fr/Ed sees there is no room to argue and sighs.

Camilo returns home to meet Barbara, he shows her the dropper and bottle he has for Aurora, some kind of roofies or something I would guess.

Aurora is alone in her room and worried (tell me something new).

Santiago finds Damian laying in the street, he pulls clothes apart until he finds that he was shot in the leg.

Camilo goes into Aurora’s room to get his slime on, She tells him how nervous/scared she is, he pulls out the bottle of roofies and tells her it’s some homeopathic anxiety relief. She stupidly doesn’t even hesitate and pops down a full dropper of the liquid. Did I mention how much I hate her? She is such a wet blanket over this show.

Tomorrow – Santiago gets Damian to a hospital. Fr/Ed’s problems with the cops continue.

Labels: manana

Hi folks. Filling in for Nickster tonight. And either it was a jam-packed episode, dialogue-wise, or my brain was working slower than usual. But, as best I remember, here's what happened tonight.

First we have the silly rehash where both Mauricio and Monita are at the hospital. He's phoning her and asking her where she is; and she's spinning a half-arsed story about being at a birthday party. He finally confronts her and asks her why she lied. For Monita, the best defense is an offense, so she spins off into a tizzy about him following her, spying on her and what right does he have!? Maybe a good short-term strategy but not a good long term approach for a relationship, Moni. He counters by accusing her of almost breaking Constanza's nose. No way. That lady exaggerates, snaps la Monita.

In addition, Mauricio continues to be clueless about who her boyfriend is. He thinks it's don Cesar. And the Don certainly does have an eye for the ladies. He ogles a passing nurse and when Mauricio huffs that she's young enough to be his daughter, Cesar chuckles and says," Yeah. Too bad her mother didn't want to...." Have to say, I find raunchy old Cesar quite endearing. In a lecherous sort of way.

And speaking of lechery, young Aldo and Ivan are in the barrio, looking for Monita, but temporarily slack-jawed and bug-eyed, staring at Estrella. She laps it up and lays her actress story on them and they're all about helping her study her lines. Aldo muscles his way in first but Estrella makes it clear she's not about to go sampling 16-year-old wares. Even Estrella has her standards.

We leave this tender love scene to return to the hospital and Jerry's continuing theatrics as a suffering martyr. Ximena is there with Rolu and thinks this is the perfect time for them to be one big happy family. After all, she and Rolu are getting married. She ratchets up a fake reconciliation between Rolu and her cousin and they leave. Jerry and Mauricio look at each other perplexed. Is she really that dense or is she faking it? They both decide she's really that dense. (But cute! right Carlos?)

Jerry continues to play his part, telling Mauricio that he's completely loyal and has been defending Mau against vicious gossip in the office. Like what? Like he's "tirando los palos" (getting it on) with Monita for instance. In the meantime, Connie has caught sight of Beto and figures she'd better vamoose so she whines to Mauricio that she's finding the hospital atmosphere incredibly stressful....and off they go.

Beto is still gaga from Moni's punch and dreaming he's in Las Vegas. His mom boffs him on the back of the head, he pitches forward and when he comes to, is completely sane again. Ready to party and celebrate. Let's go to the cantina, Monita will pay. Yep, back to business as usual for Beto, no further medical intervention needed. He's also letting his mom know he wants a "milanesa con huevos y fritas" (a Wiener Schnitzel with eggs and fries). Wow, sounds good to me. Wiener Schnitzel was my favorite meal when I worked in Austria many moons ago.

Business as usual in the office as well. Gabriela is still pursuing a reluctant Salvador with "Let's enjoy what's happening between us". "But nothing's happening between us," he protests. However, his lurking, emotionally disturbed wife thinks otherwise.

Okay. Back to the barrio. Monita's still fretting about Beto's health but Estrella's not buying it. If he went to the next world, they'd send him back, he smells so bad! Monita also passes on the tidbit that Mauricio thinks her boyfriend is don Cesar.

But at Mauricio's swanky digs, the older kids are discussing Monita's boxing ability and whether or not good-looking women can actually fight. When Mauricio and Connie arrive, the three of them (Luisa, Ivan and Aldo )disappear but not before our couple notice how well Ivan and Aldo are getting along. Let's follow their example and get along too, hints Connie. Get away all by ourselves. A mini honeymoon. Mauricio agrees it's a good idea. ¿Qué? We break for an ad.

When we come back, Gaby is still pursuing Salvador. How was last night. Lorenza disappeared. Great. What!? Well, that way you have the bed all to yourself, no? Salvador's not on board.

Teresa's not on board either. When Mauricio asks her to mind the kids while he and Constanza go away for the weekend, she stiffens her spine and refuses. Doesn't he remember she has a baptism this weekend in Querétaro? (hope I spelled that right) And she's the madrina (godmother). She can hardly miss it!

So he tries asking Monita. She's not on board either. So you're going off with your novia and not taking care of the kids you adopted, she asks scornfully. And no, I'm not going to take care of them for you! (whew! this little lady is clearly not scared of losing her job. Recession? What recession?)

A couple of quick scenes. Paula's telling Monita everyone's betting on her to win the big fight. And after Moni leaves, Lorenza sneaks in and knocks out Paula. (lots of mayhem on the part of women in this show) And then a portly but menacing thug type named Andy shows up and tells Beto Moni has to throw the fight. She's got to take a dive in the fifth round. Beto protests saying that Moni would never agree to that.

So let's get back to poor Paula. Or rather the seriously disturbed Lorenza who's now wearing Paula's uniform and pushing her cleaning cart. She mimes "I dunno" when Aldo appears behind her asking for Monita, and then slips a huge carving knife out of her pocket and attacks Gabriela. Prolonged struggle. Lots of screaming. Salvador finally ambles out and says What are you doing>! Killing her, snaps Lorenza. Two security guards show and wrestle the knife away from her.

The walls of the office are evidently quite thick because while all this is going on, Aldo and Moni are having a chat about whether or not she's a boxer. She finally admits it and agrees to teach him. Mauricio interrupts the chat and wants to know the big secret. Well, he needs advice about women and he's certainly not going to ask you! Guys are clueless about women. After that verbal jab, Moni scoots out of the office again, this time pleading an aunt suffering from hemorrhoids.

It's a relief to leave that scene and return to the corpulent thug Andy. He's amping up the pressure, assuring Beto that "there's always a first time" and Moni's going to throw this fight, no matter what. Evidently Lorenza's been hauled off by the medicos and heavily sedated and Gabriela and Salvador finally come to and realize that if his crazy wife was in Paula's clothes....then WHERE IS PAULA!? Well, they drag her out of the closet and I must say she's looking quite fetching in her undies (paños de menores). ( Clearly this actress could handle a more glamourous role if offered.) Salvador is ordered to turn around while Gaby unties her...but not before taking a thorough look, I might add.

Aldo's pumped. All this excitement in the office. He should come down more often. Connie, in the meantime, dreaming of a romantic weekend at the beach, is about to be thrown another spanner by our Mauricio. He's not explaining why, but they'll have to go to his country house instead of the resort. She caves, saying as long as they can be alone together, it's fine. (Get ready for some bad news, Connie!)

Aldo and Ivan make plans to go to the boxing match.

Jerry arrives at the office, leaning weakly on Ximena, and playing the martyr role to the hilt. How about I compress this farce and get it over with? He's pitching it right and left, praising Salvador for changing his life. Serving as a moral guide for him. And you, Gabriela.....Oh, skip me, she protests. No really. And uh, I also need to confess that I wrote that stuff about you on the bathroom wall that caused those guys to.....
Oh well, I wrote that stuff in the ladies' room about your impotency, admits Gaby. Our sentimental Ximena is so touched by all these heartfelt confessions that she could cry....but won't because she has an event to attend.

Our chronic dupe, Mauricio, enters the scene and frets that Jerry has left the hospital too soon....he needs therapy after all. But it's so expensive. Oh I'll pay. Gosh, will he pay for Ximena's therapy too? She only goes Monday through Friday but that plus the spa....well, it really adds up. And how about a little cash allowance? our larcenous cousins conclude, both holding out their hands like toddlers asking for ice cream. Of course, Mauricio caves. Guess we're beginning to understand why he can't break up with Constanza.

Larceny's afoot back in the barrio as well. First we have a little interlude where Monita says she has to get to the fight early in order to take the pregnancy test. No fighting if pregnant. But you've never "done it" with Beto, right, laughs Estrella. So why the test!?

Yep, in case you were still wondering. Our little Monita is still pure as the driven snow. Just waiting for Mauricio to get a clue and make his move. Give him 12 or 14 months and I'm sure he will.

The thugs though aren't wasting any time. Since earlier negotiations didn't work, Andy's returned with more thugs and a truly nefarious plan. He's going to tie up Beto's mother. Now the only thing more important than as virginal heroine is anybody's mother...Beto's included. I mean, we're talking "madre sagrada". So this is serious now. Beto makes the mistake of saying "Don't abuse an old lady" and mom gets mad enough to spit out her gag. But he takes off with Andy, admonishing the remaining punks to treat his old lady nice...and by the way, there's cake and milk in the fridge. Whadda guy!

Mauricio has left the office and is telling Luisa and Danny to pack their bags. They're all going to his country house for the weekend. Good times. Ride the horses, tool around the countryside. Hooray. Then he finds out Aldo's gone to a boxing match with Ivan. Uh oh. Monita's secret is about to be discovered.

Monita's fetching in a pink cape. Her opponent is terrifying in black. Will Beto convince her to throw the fight? Or will Mauricio unnerve her so much she gets knocked out fair and square? Tune in tomorrow and find out.

More Previews:
Mauricio tells Constanza they need to take a break.
Constanza and Rolu (¿Qué?) kiss

Vocabulary:
no se transa = doesn't sell herself (Beto defending Monita to Andy)
simon = si, yes
un bozal = muzzle, halter
loca de atar= stark raving mad, bonkers (in this case, Lorenza)
en paños menores = in undies
garrafón= demijohn. The container of water that Moni was punching when Aldo came in the break room
tirando los palos a alguien = getting it on with someone (el palo is the male organ)
canijo= Mexican slang for stubborn pig-headed

Dicho of the Day:
Hierba mala nunca muere = (lit.Weeds never die.) The Devil looks after his own. Nothing ever happens to the bad guys. Estrella, talking about Beto.
This is a phrase you hear a lot in telenovelas. The opposite of our expression "The good die young".

Labels: gancho

Romina spots Emiliano and drags Paloma toward him. She’s decided a good pick up line would be to ask to bum a cigarette. There is one flaw in her plan, and she quickly finds it out when Emiliano tells her that he doesn’t smoke. “Pity” she replies. He answers with a “see you” when she and Paloma head off. Emiliano goes back to what he was doing, which was purchasing some red roses. The flower vendor gives him the price and Romy turns and asks if the flowers are for a girlfriend. Emiliano smiles and gets back to his transaction. Paloma is shocked at how bold Romy was with E. Romy thinks that spending time with her aunts has made Pal behave like a nun. Pal realizes that she’s late for dinner and she’s going to get scolded by Carlota (Cruelota). E is ready to leave and he hands each girl a flower and says “good-bye”. Romy practically swoons over his gesture.

At home, Cruelota is unwilling to stall dinner because of Paloma’s being late. Cruelota launches into a diatribe about how Pal knows to head home right away after school. This is another reason why she needs to be vigilant with Pal. That girl is so much like Macarena, this isn’t intended to be a compliment to either Mac or Pal. Cruelota is called away from the kitchen by the arrival of Ines. She’s there to make plans for the parish charity fair (la kermesse de la parroquia). Ines would love to have Paloma help out. Cruelota is happy to pledge Paloma’s time and talent to the fair on Sunday. Pal comes home and learns that she’s been promised to help at the kermesse. She tries to tell her aunt that there is a test for which she needs to prepare. Cruelota will hear nothing of this. Pal heads up to her room to change. Mac follows her and Pal complains about Cruelota not asking her before she commits her to something. Pal questions why her father chose Cruelota as her guardian (la tutora), as it is obvious to her and the rest of us that her other aunt would have been the better choice. Mac says that she’ll talk to Cruelota about the kermesse. Mac notices the rose that Pal brought home and she asks questions. Pal says she got it from some young man. This interests Mac and Pal tells her that she’ll never see him again, but he was good looking. Pal switches subjects and asks Mac if it would be possible to study at Romy’s that evening. Mac reminds her that Cruelota wouldn’t like it. Pal tells her that her homework is impeded by them not having internet access. Mac agrees to let her go.

Emiliano makes it home and gives his mother the flowers. She’s delighted at his thoughtfulness and happy he’s home from Monterrey (apparently he’s not made it back all these years). Rafael, E’s father, is also happy to see his son, but he’s quickly assigned the job of bringing in the luggage.

Meanwhile, Romy is discussing her classes with her mother, she’s at risk of flunking (tronar – to flunk :colloq. in Mexico). Camila is urging her daughter to put a little more effort into school. Romy tells her that Pal might be coming over tonight to help her study if the witches (las brujas) let her leave the house.

Across the street, Pal is discussing her courses with her aunts. She really likes her art history and restoration class. Mac says she’d have liked to take those classes too. She really likes antiques (las antigüedades). They discuss how Pal can help Camila with her business. Cruelota insults Camila and both Mac and Pal defend her. They discuss how many women now need to be self-sufficient (autosuficiente). Pal talks about getting a job and going to college. Cruelota questions how she’ll afford school. Pal says that money from a job and possibly a scholarship (la beca). Cruelota’s face scrunches up more than usual at the turn of this conversation, I think this means she's displeased.

Back across the street, Camila is telling Romy that it is important for her to learn some domestic skills. She’ll probably live on her own someday, and she should know how to do things around the house. I say that this conversation should have taken place earlier in Romy’s life, perhaps about three episodes ago, when she was 9. Camila tells Romy it is very important to be able to take care of yourself, to not have to depend on another person. Romy wonders if her mother not needing her father might be one reason he left. Ouch.

Diana is so happy to have Emiliano back home. She wants to know if he plans to stay. That’s his plan. She pushes Rafa into helping E get a job at the factory.

Cruelota questions where Pal went after dinner. Mac tells her she went to study at Romy’s. Cruelota is not pleased. Mac gives the internet story. Cruelota says with a house full of books that isn’t an excuse. She launches into everyone wanting the easy way out of things….kids today would rather look it up on the internet than search for it in a book.

Diana is looking at a painting that Camila has for sale. She’s got to have it; it will look fantastic in her living room. Cam and Di talk about Emiliano’s return home. Cam tells her that Romy is thinking about going away to school and Cam doesn’t know what she’ll do when her daughter leaves. Di urges Cam to take back her life, find a man, find someone to pamper her (apapachador). Di comments that it must be horrible to get old and be alone. Ouch again.

Rafa is at work and talks to Joel, a co-worker, about how they are losing customers. There has got to be a reason why this is happening. Joel suggests that they need some new ideas. Figuratively a light bulb goes off (encendió la bombilla), Rafa says they should develop a new line of ceramics.

Upstairs, Pal is doing all the school work while Romy talks about Emiliano. He’s sooo good looking and she wonders what it would be like to kiss him.

Meanwhile, Emiliano goes to meet a friend, Germán. Now here is a bombón, Germán is quite the looker. The friends share a tequila, to toast E’s return home. E tells his friend how he’d like to open his own business. They talk about how bad Rafa’s boss is, apparently quite a tyrant. Germán knows someone named Orlando who could be able to help E. He’ll see what he can do. E’s happy to hear this. The men talk about women and E kind of mentions that he saw some good looking girls earlier that day.

Mac, working on some sort of sewing project, talks to Ines about having Paloma work at the kermesse. She tells Ines that Pal has a test coming up and won’t be able to help out. Ines is ticked and she leaves. Mac talks to anther woman, and this woman shows her a dress: very good price and the latest style (última moda). Mac thinks she should buy it for Paloma, but then worries that Cruelota won’t like it. She decides to get it for Pal anyway.

Yvonne is visiting Natalie. Yvonne questions if Natalie has gotten over Cristobal. It was a very passionate love, but quite different from what she feels for Alonso. So, I take it to mean that Natalie’s moved on? Yvonne wonders if Natalie ever saw Cristobal again, no never she answers.

We are now taken to Cristobal, he’s become a priest and ministering to the drunks. While making coffee to help sober them up, he preaches about walking down a similar road himself.

Emiliano goes to pick his mother up from Camila’s house. Romy answers the door and she’s shocked to see the boy from earlier on her doorstep. He comes in and Di introduces him to Camila and Romy. They all comment on how everyone’s changed through the years and how they’d have never recognized each other (proven earlier for Romy and E).
Pal returns home and Cruelota scolds her about going to Romy’s and not using the library in the house. She reminds Pal that all permission in the house is to be granted by her and only her, so Pal shouldn’t be asking Mac for anything. In addition, Cruelota adds, that Pal will be working the kermesse on Sunday. She warns Pal not to go against her. Pal tells her that she has no right to make decisions for her. Cruelota says au contraire, you will work the kermesse. Mac arrives home and tries to intervene. Cruelota warns her if she doesn’t want problems then she should be quiet. Mac tells her sister she’s too hard on Paloma.

Romy and Camila discuss E and how she used to be afraid of him when she was little and that she really didn’t like him.

Mac goes to see Pal in her room and gives her the dress.

Romy takes a peek into her mother’s address book and gets Di’s phone number.

Pal tries on the dress and thinks it might be too short. It is a dress more suited for Romy, Pal says. She then compares her home life to Romy’s. Mac makes excuses, perhaps they are a little more conservative, but one day Pal will be free and the ruler of her own destiny, she’ll be happy. Cruelota darkens the door and lets it be known she hates the dress, it is too short and there is no way in Hades that Paloma will be allowed out of the house in it until it is altered.

Emiliano brings Di home and they talk about the goings on in town. Some jazz musicians are playing (?). E heads off to bed and Rafa tries to tell Di about the new line of ceramics. Di isn’t interested in that, she just wants to brow beat Rafa for not securing a job for E at the factory. She wants her son to become the head of a company. She belittles Rafa, calling him a little man who is unwilling to take risks. She comments that Pablo gets rich, while Rafa remains mediocre. Rafa defends himself, he may not have the ambition that Di wishes he would have, but he is hardworking and honest. She lambastes him for keeping her there for twenty-five years, all the while keeping her dreams unfulfilled.

At the school there is a new teacher. She’ll be teaching psychology and college prep courses. She’s happy to be there. The girls get a break and Romy pulls out a cell phone. Pal is nervous, they could get in trouble with a cell at school. Romy convinces Pal to call Emiliano’s house, she’s afraid to do it because Di might recognize her voice. Di answers and Pal asks for E. Di wants to know who’s calling and Pal says “una amiga.” She quickly gives the phone to Romy, who talks to Emiliano. She tells him that since he’s been out of town awhile, perhaps she can show him some of the new hot spots. She gets him to agree to go out with her that very evening. When E gets off the phone, Di pushes to find more information, but E isn’t very forthcoming.

Romy tells Camila about her date with E. She wants a new outfit and her mother tells her she’s got a closet bursting with clothes. Romy says she’s lacking the right outfit, and does her mother want her to look like a “pueblerina”/ so provincial? Camila agrees, on the condition that Romy study harder.

Pal watches from her window when Emiliano comes to pick Romy up for their date. Mac catches her at the window and they talk about Romy’s date. Mac wonders if Pal is interested in Emiliano. Pal assures her “no”, but she’d like to meet someone like him. What’s the use, she adds, there is no way Cruelota would let her have a boyfriend.

Romy and E exchange the proper getting to know you info. They talk about his former schooling and what he want for a job. They talk about her school and her plans for the future. He tells her that he promised her mother she’d be home by 11, so they’ve got to go.

Di and Rafa discuss E’s date. She wants to know who he went out with….what if it isn’t the right kind of girl. Rafa looks disgusted with how much of a snob his wife is. Di tells Rafa she’s going to need some money to buy the painting from Camila. Rafa reminds her that money is a little tight. Di doesn’t care, it is an investment, she wants the painting and she’ll have it.

E escorts Romy to her door. Pal is back watching out the window. E and Romy exchange phone numbers (she does the very modern thing and calls his cell phone to give him her number). Romy notices Pal watching and decides to give her friend a good show. She kisses Emiliano and he kisses her back.

Mac takes a peek at the stuff in her mystery box. Looking at the photograph, she comments that “after so many years, I can’t forget you. Your memory hurts me.”

The next day at school, Romy wants to tell Pal about the kiss and the girls get in trouble for talking.

Germán calls E and tells him that they are going to have a party that night in honor of his return to town.

E goes to meet Romy after school (he figured out which school was hers, based upon her uniform---good powers of observation). He tells Romy about the party and invites her and Pal to join in on the fun. Romy agrees right away, and she wonders if Pal would ever get permission from the aunts. Pal doesn’t answer. Romy kisses E and says to Pal, “come to the party with me and mi novio.” To Emiliano, she says “we are novios, right? You don’t think I kiss everyone that I go out with?” All of this is being observed by the new teacher and she doesn’t look too happy. END OF EPISODE.

Labels: amor

Back at Grupo Lactos, Vladi is in his office hyperventilating over the “Pris and Flo predicament,” which has now become the “Pris, Flo and Fer predicament,” as Damian comes in to see what’s up. Vlad complains that their Flor problem has gotten more complicated. He explains how Fernanda came to his office to complain about his hiding Damn in his apartment while he was a wanted man and she caught him in the office talking to Priscilla. Fer asked Pris to go with her to Prolasa and Pris left with Fer. Vladi, holding his aching head in his hands, says he thinks that things are under control after speaking a couple of times with that guy, Correa, who hopefully won’t stick his foot in his mouth and wreck everything. Damn, losing patience, throws Vlad unceremoniously back into his chair and tells him to calm down. “If Pris went with Nanda then she’ll have our backs!”

Over at Prolasa, Fer has Rolando bring in Jaime for a little Q&A. She asks Jaime the particulars around how long ago he and Flor got together and then became an item. He lies and says they met at a party she and some of his friends gave him a year ago and that they’ve been romantically involved for a few months. She asks his age (we’re not sure why) and he answers he’s 24 and gonna turn 25 the coming month. (Definitely still a babe in the proverbial woods and at least 10 years Flor’s junior.) Nanda gets permission from Rolando to take him back to Grupo with her in pursuit of the truth.

At Las Animas Estev, aka, Dewey, is laughing about Venus’ having a date that night with Camilo Elizalde. Ed is lost in his own thoughts and doesn’t hear a thing. He has this goofy grin on his face so Estev asks what’s going on. Ed is smiling crazily. (Note to producer: shoot either the director or FC's acting coach! Galan's aren't supposed to look that dufus.) He replies that what’s going on is he’s got a young woman under his control that everyone thinks is kidnapped; then he’s got someone close by who is watching him and knows all his secrets but he hasn’t any idea who that is; then he has Don Elizalde’s car hidden on his place that supposedly was stolen from the man’s wife; and there is a woman in the past named Ana Gregoria Bravo, Artemio Bravo’s mother, who is the key to all his misfortunes since childhood. The last is something that Estev’s really going to love: he’s getting married. Estev is drop-jaw impactado. “Say what?”

Eduardo, whose emotional life is in the crapper, says that he’s decided to get married to Fernanda’s best friend, Errorika (who’s definitely batting 0 for 3 at this point). Apparently, Eduardo figures there’s no better way to forget, since he cannot forgive. (Viewerville agrees a Dr. Phil sized intervention is needed here and Dewey might not be up to the task.) There is an evil glint in Ed’s eyes. (Maybe Dr. Sotomayor offers two-fer specials.) The set of Ed’s jaw spells trouble for somebody.

Pris, still at Grupo, sees Fer arrive with Jaime. Fernanda puts Jaime in an empty office and lets him sweat for a while.

Back at Las Animas, Denia stands in the doorway with a tray of coffee and watches as Estev tells the dementedly smiling Eddie that he’s lost it [de ramate = utterly]. Ed replies he’s “as crazy as anybody who gets married.” Dewey doesn’t disagree, but says there are some people who are crazier than others and Ed has begun to exceed his limits [rebasar de limite]. “You aren’t in love!” Denia silently gasps with horror in the background. “It’s obvious that you don’t know Errika well enough to get married! Come on!” Denia secretly sides with Estev.

Ed argues that being in love and knowing someone well doesn’t necessarily guarantee happiness in a marriage. Dewey agrees, but says people avoid getting married if they can if they don’t love the other person. Ed counters and justifies with boring facts about cultures in which loveless marriages continually take place and says their suicide rates aren’t any greater than those that presume love and romance are the essence of marital bliss. (Yawn.) “Haven’t you heard of cultivating love like a plant?” (Yeah, that was that romantic psychobabble hopelessly hopeful Errorika was just dishing out, wasn’t it?) Estev says fine, Mr. Encyclopedia, there’s just one other little itty-bitty question he wants to ask. “Shuh-uht!” (I believe that’s “Shoot!”) answers our smug Eddie. (Note to director: tell FC to stick with Spanish or get a better English coach. It’s hard for a recapper from the States to keep from rolling on the floor in spasms of teary-eyed laughter, especially this late at night.) “What about Fernanda?” Ed’s arrogant smirk melts away. The clench of his jaw reveals the hurt and misery he feels beneath.

Meanwhile, Nanda argues Flor’s case with her papi. Gonzo reminds her that Jaime had stolen documents on his desk and swore that Flor tried selling them. Nanda reminds Gonzo that the guy is a stranger so he shouldn’t take his word over Florecita’s. She convinces him she has a way to show that Jaime’s lying.

Dewey reminds Ed that Nanda represents something special to him. Ed says yeah, but it’s useless being in love with her. (That’s the sanest thing Eddie’s said yet.)

Fer goes back into the office where Jaime’s now ready to climb the walls. He says he’s got things to do back at Prolasa. She says she understands but it will only take a minute or so to resolve this situation.

Ed admits to Estev that he’s come to adore Fernanda and laments it’s all been a waste.

Denia, meanwhile, has returned to her bedroom to complain to the diosito that her lifelong love for and devotion to Eduardo has been just as much of a waste. “All this time loving and waiting for him has been worth no more than a beach umbrella in the desert, right? From the day they sent him away I knew he and Señorita Fernanda wouldn’t end up together. She’s rich and the rich never marry the poor. That’s why I’ve waited such a long time for him. How did I know the sly thing was going to come back with such rich man airs? Well, all is fair in love and war and Errika better aim somewhere else, because I’m going to bait the trap for that wedding! Anyway, she can get another hunky guy somewhere else in no time and leave me my Eduardo, ‘cause I’ve been waiting for him for 15 years.”

Pris is now in Vlad’s office arguing with him and Damn. Vlad wonders woefully if Jaime’s going to give them away. Damn’s mad Pris didn’t stick like glue to Fer to prevent it. Pris is disgusted with this whole turn of events and yells back they shouldn’t expect her to pull their chestnuts out of the fire for them. Damn yells back Pris is up to her neck in this right along with them. She says she’s worried because the last thing she wants is for her brother, Rolando, to learn she’s involved in this fraud. Vlad wants to know why Fer would bring Correa over to Grupo. Damn answers it’s obviously to interrogate him, but Jaime won’t be able to say anything so it won’t matter. Vlad gets angry thinking that his son’s future is in the hands of a complete stranger. Damian tells him to shut the heck up so he can think their way out of this jam.

Fernanda brings a dozen secretaries into the room with Jaime and demands he identify Florecita. Jaime swallows hard.

Denia takes a trip into town and gets something she’s written printed off at what passes for a Kinko’s in Villa Madera. The clerk asks if she’s trying to frighten her boyfriend or what. She says, “Yeah, pretty much.”

Jaime breaks under pressure and asks if he can have a minute alone to speak with Fernanda.

Meanwhile, Bitch Barbie gives Tomasa the rest of the day off and tells her not to come back till next morning. Santiago and Aurora come walking in all kissy-face and smiles. Babs tells them what a pleasure it is to see them like that. The two lovebirds walk off; BB thinks evilly, “Enjoy it while you can because very soon your happiness comes to an end.”

Fer brings Jaime into Gonzo’s office to confess he really doesn’t know who Flor Campillo is. Gonzo self-righteously reams him for trying to save his job at the expense of their exemplary employee. Fer seconds that opinion. Gonzo want’s to know who gave him Flor’s name and got him involved in telling such a whopper. Jaime’s just about to spill the beans when Babs rushes in needing to speak to Gonzo about Dr. Obregon and Lili. Jaime is shown the door and told to wait. Babs begins with part two of her own tall tale.

At the same time, Eduardo has gone to Miraflores to get Adofina to tell him where he can find Dr. Oh! She tries to change the subject but he screams at her in frustration that it’s urgent. Addled, Adolfina finally tells him what little she knows.

Babs must “explain” to Fer how Obregon didn’t give them a deadline for the money, only a warning that if they ever wanted to see Lili again they’d have to come up with the ransom before hanging up. Fer wants Babs’ cell to trace it, but Babs says that’s impossible because it came up “unknown.” Fer mentions how strange a kidnapping this seems. Babs quickly covers and suggests she wouldn’t call it a kidnapping because she doesn’t think he’s kept Lili by force. “Considering Obregon was the person Lili knew best these past fifteen years it would make sense she’d join him voluntarily. It’s not like he’s trying to keep her hidden.” Fer says, “Then according to that theory, what would happen if we simply don’t pay the ransom?”

Babs answers that’s a risk she prefers not to run because she knows Obregon’s a killer and has the means to force them. Gullible Grizzled ol’ Gonzo gripes that cancelling the police search was a mistake but Babs reminds him about Obregon’s “threat on Lili’s life” if they told the police. Gonzo yells back in frustration that they can’t just sit there doing nothing [con los brazos cruzados]. Babs says they have no choice but to wait for his next call and get ready to come through with the ransom when he asks. Fer fights the urge to tell Barbara to stop all the B.S. Babs does stop long enough to realize she’s interrupted something and asks who the young man was. Gonzo explains he’s the guy scheming up stories [tejer patrañas = weaving tales] about Flo spying.

Vlad takes off with Jaime, meantime, and drives the two of them back to meet Damn at the apartment. Damian is talking on the phone to Priscilla. She informs him Jaime didn’t have a chance to say anything and that Vlad’s driving back there with him. Damn starts to tell her what she’s got to do next but Pris tells him she doesn’t care; that it’s his mess and he can clean it up himself. Damian warns her she’s as deep in doodoo as the rest of them and to pray to her favorite saint that her brother doesn’t find out her lover, Vladimir, was the one who threw Flor’s name out there as a company spy. Pris tells Damian to stop threatening her because he was the one who dreamed this up so to figure it out himself; and if he doesn’t cool his jets and fast, he can forget her helping him any further. Click!

When Fernanda goes back to Reception looking for Jaime he can’t be found. She tells Gonzo he’s run off. Gonzo says no biggie since they now know Flor wasn’t a spy after all. Fer, staring straight at Babs, says true but they didn’t learn who instructed him to point out Flor as a traitor in the first place.

In the car, Vlad warns Jaime nobody can ever know what’s gone on. Poor, miserable Jaime whines about his being left without a job or references. He’s got expenses and needs his job. He insists Vlad take him back to Prolasa to tell Sr. Alvear the truth. Vlad says Jaime can’t possibly think that Alvear would ever believe him after all the lies he’s told. Jaime wonders how in the world he’s going to handle this problem then. Vlad says he’s got no idea, but he will not leave Jaime stranded. (Vlad, for all his irritating idiosyncrasies, is still a mensch!)

Back at Grupo, Babs very innocently asks Fer, “Who would want to harm Flor that way?” “--The same person who’s been trying to harm the family.” Babs asks if she really thinks somebody has been trying to harm them. Fer answers “Absolutely.” Babs asks her what proof she has. Fer keeps her powder dry thinking back to Fr/Ed telling her that they weren’t strong enough yet to confront either Barbara or the malevolent person who controls and directs her actions; and that it was better for now to leave Lili in a safe place out of Barbara Greco’s reach. “--No, no proof, but so many unfortunate things have happened to the family recently, there has to be somebody behind it intentionally trying to harm us.” Wheels in the Barbot’s head start turning.

Speaking of Eeevil, Artemio Bravo is seated at his desk at that same moment handing over a photo of Lili to Borja, one of his assistants. “She’s Liliana Elizalde; she escaped from Miraflores psychiatric clinic and needs to be found immediately.” Borja asks how he should proceed. “Bring her here. The Elizalde’s are never ever to see her again. They are going to cry tears of blood.” (Well, maybe a couple of them might.)

Fer tells Gonzo that unless Obregon shows himself there’s no reason to pay the ransom. Babs says she thinks he will call soon because the amount of money he’s asking is so steep. Gonzo nearly blows a gasket. “It doesn’t matter the amount! I would give everything I have provided that my daughter is returned safe and sound!” Ruh-roh! Fer is eyes-open-wide-impactada cuz she knows this means the poor-house for everyone; and if it isn’t Obregon behind this, then it’s bye-bye Babs cuz she’ll probably make off with every dime of it.

Back at Miraflores, Adolfina explains to Eduardo that Dr. Oh! never told her where he would be --just that if Barbie died, then she was to let him know. Eduardo asks if that happens how she is supposed to get word to Obregon if she doesn’t know his whereabouts. Adolfina hands Eddie a note with some newspaper’s name on it. She was supposed to put an announcement in the obituaries in that paper, “The Messenger.” “--It’s some paper in the southeast somewhere and I think that was where Dr. Oh! headed.”

At Vlad’s apartment, Jaime tells Damn he’s got no other option because Rolando Alvear will never believe him. He asks who was behind this whole thing, anyway. Damn screams at him. “What does it matter? You’re finished at Prolasa!” Jaime paces. “—why did you all have to do this to me? My mother is sick. I’m almost done paying off the note to my car and I am paying for my apartment!” Damn tells him to calm down and assures him they’ll help him out. He’ll need to disappear from Prolasa, though. Jaime asks how he’s going to survive. Damn swears the problem’s solved.

Denia gets back to Las Animas all smiles. She pulls out a big envelope addressed in big print to “EDUARDO JUAREZ.” Suddenly Fernanda appears, looking for Fr/Ed. Denia makes a big show of going inside to look for him, but actually stalls a couple minutes in the kitchen laughing to herself. She puts the envelope in a drawer for safekeeping and then runs back out to say she can’t find him. However, Eddie returns home just then and sees Fer standing there. Fer explains it’s urgent and they go inside to talk. Denia’s stuck making coffee …uh-gain.

In the meantime from the bedroom, Damian tries sweet-talking Pris into giving him the money to buy Jaime’s silence. Prissy screams in frustration. “Where am I going to find that kind of money?” Easier for her than for him, he says. She spits back she’s never understood, either, why Damn got Flor involved in some dopey story about industrial espionage to begin with because all it did was make Flor more powerful in the end since she was proved innocent. Damn sidesteps saying that was to be expected with Fernanda and her connections. “She’s the enemy. She’s not the saint we all took her for!” Pris scoffs at him. “Well, being Santoro’s lover does make her pretty powerful, doesn’t it?” “—Sure, as long as their secret is kept, but we are going to expose them!” Pris seems uncomfortable with where this is going.

In the living room Vlad continues pacing. “Where is Damian going to get the money necessary to make it up to this dude?” he asks himself. Damn eventually comes out of the bedroom and laughs. “Tomorrow, Jaimito, you will have the agreed on amount deposited into your bank account.” Smiles all ‘round. Damn tells Vlad to take the Jaime wherever he wants. The two leave. Vlad returns to ask where in the world Damn got the money. Damn pushes Jaime back out into the hall then lies that it came from Barbara’s account. Vlad is pacified and takes off with Jaime. Damn shuts the apartment door again and breathes a sigh of relief.

At Las Animas, Fer tells Fr/Ed that she’s embarrassed to show up like this without calling first, but she couldn’t risk calling him on the phone. She explains about Barbara’s claim that Obregon was demanding a lot of money to hand over her sister. Fr/Ed smirks. His phone rings. It’s Gonzo asking him to come to Grupo for an urgent meeting of the Board of Directors. Fer gets a call as well. They figure it’s got to be because Barbara and Gonzo have decided to go ahead with the ransom payment.

Back at Grupo, Babs tells Gonzo she doesn’t mind the board meeting, but she’s not happy about having an interloper like Santoro there. Gonzo wakes from his senile haze and, in a rare flash of businessmen’s acumen, reminds her that the money Obregon’s asking is going to have to come from the funds Powhere Meelk authorized them. As the representative of that company, Santoro will have to endorse the payment. Babs looks about as thrilled as a matty-furred cat caught in the middle of a monsoon.

Back at Las Animas again, Estev interrupts Fer and Fr/Eddie over something about the leasing agency coming for Fr/Ed’s car. He loans Fr/Ed his own, says hello to Fer, and winks at Eddie on the way out. Fer starts to leave but Fr/Ed grabs her by the arm. (Viewerville vicariously shares the electrical shock now racing up Fer’s arm. Yowza!) He has something else to tell her. (Viewerville swoons in vain hopes that it’s an attempt to kiss and make up.) Ed says he spoke with Adofina at Miraflores today and now has a way to locate Obregon. He insists that Fernanda must delay the ransom payment at all cost until he can verify whether Obregon is Barbara’s accomplice in this extortion attempt on her daddy.

Labels: manana

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 1:36 PM 112 comments

Alternate Title: Jeronimo! No, not THAT brave!

Tonight’s action-packed episode starts out with Moni thanking Teresa for helping with the pink dress she wore to the embassy, saying it may have to be cleaned, since Moni sweated a bit, having been quite nervous. Unaware that Connie already found her out, she goes back into the living room to say goodnight to Mau, only to be greeted by Connie’s setup – Con and Mau are liplocked. She thinks better of saying anything to Mau, and discreetly asks Teresa to call a taxi.

Over at Grupo Sermeño, it’s the next morning. Salvador has the tape to prove Jeronimo’s guilt. Gabi and he are happy they’ve finally caught the rat. Sal says he’ll squash that cockroach, it’s their day of triumph. Okay, adds Gabi, so lets, uh, celebrate, as she sashays her body close to his, talking about a bottle of wine, but Mau shows up to ruin the moment. Gabi gives Mau some school supplies kits (útiles escolares) for the kids, and before Sal can get a word in about Jerry, Mau walks off.

He enters the coffee room, where Paula and Moni are starting the day. Pau leaves to start her cleaning, and after Moni explains why she left last night without saying goodbye (didn’t want to interrupt), Mau gives her the school supplies to take to the niños (and she should also check Danny, who has a little cough). But their magic seems diminished, since Moni saw Mau kissing Connie last night.

At school, Katia’s boyfriend Héctor is upset that she’s talking to Aldo. Héctor calls Aldo an idiot, Aldo punches, Héctor punches harder, Aldo goes down, Katia’s mad, but macho Héctor drags her off to class anyway. Aldo watches them leave (Ivan is observing in the background) with a bloodied face and a scowl.

Cut to the tape of Jeronimo asking for a kickback, being played by Sal in Maury’s office. Mauricio is impactado, asks Sal how he got the tape, Sal says it was a trap, since he’s suspected Jerry for months. Mau buzzes Gabi to summon Jerry. Jerry enters full of compliments, big smile, but Mau’s face is hard as a diamond. Sal leaves to let the axe fall. Why, Jerry, why are you robbing the company? Well, I’ve got debts, you know, is the response. With whom, besides me? Well, my sister. This enrages Mau further, he’s had it with Jerry. Jerry’s out of comebacks, just says okay, you’re right, I’ll leave, and he walks out. He passes Salvador and Gabi, both sarcastically saying “what a shame”. After Jerry leaves, Mau comes out, and Sal asks what steps Mau will take against Jerry. Gabi adds that Jerry was involved with the theft of her gold chain, too. But Mau says he’s not taking any steps, in fact, the topic is closed. He goes back into his office, as Sal remarks, he’s really hurt.

In the kitchen of the mansion, Aldo’s putting ice on his bruised face, as Ivan arrives to joke with him playfully. But Aldo’s in no mood for this.

Moni arrives with the school supplies. Danny greets her happily. Moni asks about Danny’s cough (while kissing her, hmmm), says Danny got the cough from drinking cold things (I’m not so sure of this medical advice), but anyway, they’re off to take the kits to Aldo and Luisa.

Ximena, wearing a red and white diamond print, off the shoulder barebacked shift, is walking in the park, talking on the cell with Jerry, telling him to quit screaming, she wants to talk, too. Guess who she just ran into? Ximena Portillo, the one who climbed all over you (te gateaba), the one who accused you of sexual assault? Her smile changes though, as she finally recognizes the desperation in Jerry’s voice. You’re WHERE, brother? the anguish rising in her voice.

Luisa and Danny tell Moni about the kitten incident, where Connie wouldn’t let Danny keep it, pulled Danny by the ear, and the kitten got scared and ran away. Moni is outraged.

Mau’s phone rings, its Ximmy, he thinks it’s her usual foolishness, but she’s upset. He has to come right away. Jerry is threatening to throw himself (arrojarse) off the ledge of his building!

After the commercial, we see a shot of a tall building, followed by a shot from high above of a crowd gathering, including Ximena, some neighbors, and of course, a news camera. Mau screeches in, jumps out of his convertible, and he and Ximmy look up to see Jerry sitting on a ledge, about 5 stories up. Mau asks why no one went into Jerry’s apartment to rescue him, but Ximmy says Jerry set it up so all the doors were blocked (atrancadas). Also, Jerry has threatened to jump if the police or firemen break down the doors. Ximmy grabs a megaphone. Life is beautiful, brother, with flowers and birds. Not for me, yells back Jerry, looking desperate, as this is no joke. I’m going to jump (aventarse, pretty much same as arrojarse). Mauricio tries to talk sense into him, forget the money. Jerry is still distraught, saying it’s not only the money, but the shame. A man with no money and no honor is nothing. He puts his hands together as if he’s about to dive.

Back at the house, Ivan says he can teach Aldo to defend himself, since he knows Tai Kwan Do. Luisa thinks it’s a good idea, and Ivan puts his hands in the “catana” position, but it must not be the best defense, since Aldo easily pushes him onto the bed. Too bad no one really knows about self defense in this group. But wait, the door opens, and our Boxette Moni enters, SHE’ll teach ‘em. She shows Aldo how to have an open stance, how to protect with your shoulder. But how do you know all this, they ask. Ummm, well, I downloaded it from the internet (hah!).

Back at Jump Central, Jerry yells that he has no reason to live. What about your sister? That doesn’t help. Ximmy says they just opened a new nightclub, and you can’t miss that, right? She asks the crowd, he has to go to the new Gonza nightclub, right? The crowd answers NOOOO! Jerry says the only thing that might stop me is if Mauricio comes up next to me and we talk man to man. But the doors are blocked! Figure it out, Maury, you’re so smart, and don’t try to break down those doors, or I’ll jump. And come alone. Ximmy grabs the megaphone and leads the crowd in a chant, “Go up cousin, go up! Go up, cousin, go up! (Sube primuchis, sube). Maury’s going to try. The firefighter rigs some ropes for him to go up the side of the building.

Boxing 101 continues. Moni has Ivan get into position, put up his hands, and teaches jab with the left, finish (remates) with the right. Now Aldo gets a chance. Ivan still isn’t convinced a girl can teach boxing. Oh really, challenges Moni, let’s see if you can fight me. They start sparring. A few rooms away, Connie’s walking along, yelling for Teresa, clapping her hands impatiently. Teresa arrives, Connie wants to know where her dress is. Well, at the cleaners (la tintorería). Why? It smelled like cigarettes. Connie doesn’t buy this, why would it smell like cigarettes? Teresa says SHE wore it to go dancing, but Connie doesn’t like this joke. She hears a lot of commotion from the other room. Teresa says oh, that’s just Monita, which gets Connie mad. She marches into the room, just in time to be accidentally PUNCHED by Monita! Ooops, everyone is open-mouthed.

Connie is furious at being hit. She accuses Moni and the kids of hating her, and says Moni hit her on purpose. No way, replies Moni, I was teaching the kids self-defense. Luisa says they all could see it was just an accident. Connie thinks they’re all plotting against her. She dismisses the kids, wants to talk alone to Moni. They leave, and Connie lays into her. Get out of my way, and leave Mauricio in peace! I know your game. Mauricio is handsome, he’s a millionaire, obviously you want him. Moni can’t believe this. What does it matter if someone’s a millionaire? Oh, I see now, she says. Money is important to YOU. But it’s not to me. I happen to have a boyfriend, he’s not that handsome, and he’s not rich, but I’m faithful to him, and can you say that? (remember, Paula heard Ximena tell Jerry that Connie had a lover, and told Moni – although of course, it’s not true, Beto’s not her amante, but who knows what the future holds :) Connie asks her if she swears there’s nothing between her and Mau, and Moni does swear. There’s nothing between her and Mauricio, and if she swears something, you can count on it. And by the way, don’t you lay a finger on those kids!

Okay, it’s hero time. Mauricio has reached the balcony, but Jerry tells him not to come any closer. Mau has a rope hooked onto him. Jerry’s afraid, his fingers are stiff (engarrotados), he’s on the edge, both legs are on the outside of the barrier, he’s slipping! Maury calmy tells him to put one leg over, then the other. He even puts HIS legs over, sits right next to Jerry. Jerry won’t listen, even if he comes back, he’s going to jail, right? No, replies Mau, I won’t do that to you. Then I can come back to the company? Well, what you did was very grave. Either I come back to the company, or I jump. Oh, heck, let’s just end it all for both of us, he adds, and starts trying to pull Maury off the ledge with him! Maury tells him okay, he can come back to the company, then helps painfully pull him back from the precipice. Ximena yells that Mau is her hero, her superhero (starts laughing, I think since there’s a song saying wish I were a superhero), and the two guys hug.

Back down on the ground, Ximmy tells Jerry not to do it again. Jerry says he won’t, from now on he’ll be good, and he can come back to the company, right, Mau? Right. But only as a messenger boy. Also, you have to go into therapy. (wonder if he’ll get one of those hot lady shrinks!) They leave, Tano tries to ask Ximmy out, but pain in the butt Rolando shows up and Tano comes up empty mano (not correct Spanish, but it rhymes).

Rah, rah, rah, sis, boom, bah, Paula and Gabi have pompoms and are cheering our superhero. The girls want to open a bottle of wine, and Mau agrees. His phone rings, and of course it’s Connie, whose problem is WAY more important than anything Mau might have done today. Off he goes to put out another fire.

Back home (with Ivan listening in), Connie tells Mau that Moni was giving the kids boxing lessons. Okay, Mau will talk to Moni, this violence has to stop. Connie reminds Mau they really know very little about Moni, why are they trusting her so much? (this actually is true – Moni’s lied about everything. But she’s so pretty and sweet, let’s give her a pass). Mau promises he’ll set Moni straight, but now he’s going to take a bath.

Ivan fills in Aldo and Luisa, and they decide that Connie’s a gossip. They’ll talk to Moni first, and then talk to Mauricio.

Well, Mau’s ready for his bath (or maybe he already took it), and you ladies get to see him clad just in a towel. You ladies are lucky tonight. After Connie complains that he’s changed, he starts being nice to her, reminding her of how destroyed he was when his wife died, and how she filled that void with patience and affection. And now he has the children. They’re a blessing. Yes, replies Connie. The children and I are a blessing (lol). She gives him a kiss, leaves to let him get dressed. He thinks to himself, yes Monita (!) and the kids have changed my life.

Said Monita is asking Beto what Don Cesar said about the fight. Well, her opponent will be la Guerrera Hija (warrior daughter). Moni doesn’t like her. Beto says wait ‘til you hear this, she’s going around saying she’s going to rip your head off. Moni spits out her “right back at ya” response, although I really couldn’t understand much of the slang she used. Don Cesar shows up in a purple suit with a blue open-necked shirt, tells Beto to stop getting Moni so worked up. He tells Moni to have a cool head. Hate your opponent, but keep a cool head. Moni says she’s gonna kick that girl’s butt. At this point, “that girl” shows up, namely the Guerrera Hija, a tough looking broad in an orange tank top that says “love” on the front. The girls start getting angry, Don Cesar says save it for the ring, when Moni takes a swing at la Guerrera. She ducks, and Moni knocks out Beto!

In the office, Gabi and Sal are doing their usual dance, she flirting, he trying to resist. She wants to celebrate their putting Jerry in his place, even though they’re both a little disappointed that he didn’t jump. Sal says someone had to stop Jerry from taking advantage. Gabi says the two of them should take advantage of each other (aprovecharse, related to buen provecho, which a waiter says when you start your meal, like bon apetit, or enjoy). She puts her arm around him. Don’t start, he says. Let’s start, she says. She moves in closer. No, he says, Yes, she says, gives him a little kiss, that wasn’t so bad, was it? Grabs his tie, another kiss, when the elevator opens, and his dominatrix wife Lorenza, dressed in black, sees it all. They don’t see her, and Sal keeps trying to escape, rushing off to make a copy or something.

Don Cesar and Moni try to revive Beto, as Guerrera laughs in the background. Don Cesar shoos away Guerrera, and they concentrate on Beto. He’s delirious, turn off the alarm clock, wash my underpants. Yes, bread with onions. (Makes more sense than what he usually says).

Jerry’s in the hospital for “observation”. The only thing that hurts is his “soul”. Maury and Connie are not too sympathetic, and they wonder what the doctors found, but Jerry says nothing. They must be hiding something. He thinks he must have internal injuries, or maybe he’s losing his hearing. Oh be quiet, say Mau, and goes to talk to the doctors. Jerry beckons Connie closer. Closer. A little closer, as he grabs her and kisses her! Gee, I guess he’s not that sick after all. Same old Jerry. Connie grabs her purse and lurches away as fast as her fashionable boots can carry her.

Aldo calls the office, asks for Moni. Gabi answers, Moni’s not at work at the moment (is she ever?), but she gives Aldo Moni’s home address.

Okay, it’s whack a mole time again. Maury asks the nurse at the front desk where the doctor (Doctor Quiroz) is, and she directs him to the consultorio. Two seconds later, Moni and Cesar wheel Beto out of the elevator, same hospital, same floor. Beto’s still babbling (he thinks he’s in Las Vegas). Moni says no, you’re in the rich people’s hospital. Apparently Don Cesar has good insurance coverage. Moni asks the nurse if Beto is going to be stupid forever (I think we all know the answer to that one). The nurse goes to find Doctor Ordonez.

At this point, even though Beto is completely incoherent, Cesar goes for coffee and Moni goes for a doctor, leaving crazy Beto unattended, sitting in a wheelchair. He even thinks he can now speak English, starts saying “hello” to everyone (most of the women cringe).

Aldo and Ivan (what happened to Luisa?) have come to the barrio to find Moni. They run into Estrella. Does she know where Monita is? Well, ummm, the thing is, ummm…..

Apparently Beto is actually being checked by the doctor. In the waiting room, Moni is worried about him, and hugs Don Cesar for moral support. Just then, Maury pops out seeing the hug from behind Cesar (whom he can’t see), of course thinks it’s Moni’s novio, gets jealous, ducks back into his rabbit hole.

One door closes, another opens, as Nieves comes out of the elevator. She, too is worried that Beto will be a blockhead (tarugo) the rest of his life (yes, he will). At this point, Beto is wheeled out, licking on a lollipop, doesn’t recognize his Mom at all (but he seems happy, so what’s the harm?). Beto’s wheeled back in for more tests, and Cesar and Nieves go for tea. This leaves Moni standing alone, and she prays to the Virgencita. Maury comes out, sees her from twenty feet away, and calls her cellphone. She’s facing away, answers the phone, and here’s what they say:

Moni: Hi, Mauricio, how are the kids?
Mau: Fine, and where are you now?
Moni: Well, I’m at my cousin’s son’s birthday party.
Mau: Gee, I don’t hear any party sounds.
Moni: Well, my cousin is deaf. Her kid is, too. It’s inherited, you know.
Mau: Sure. And is your boyfriend with you?
Moni: What’s it to you? Why don’t you just hire a detective to spy on me?
Mau: No, no, I just want to know if…
Moni: Know if what? They’re calling me to blow out the candles, so bye.
Mau: Wait, wait, how’s your brother?
Moni: He’s fine, Goodbye.

She hangs up. He hangs up, walks over to her from behind, circles around, looks her in the eye and says “Why did you lie to me, Monita?”

Next time: The fight’s approaching and Lorenza goes psycho with a butcher knife!

Vocabulario:

Útiles Escolares – school supplies
Gatear – to climb or crawl
Arrojarse – to hurl oneself
Atrancada – blocked
Aventarse – to throw oneself
Rematar – round off, finish off
La Tintorería – the dry cleaners
Engarrotado – stiff, agarrotado means the same thing
Aprovecharse – take advantage of
Tarugo – a blockhead

Labels: gancho

Damian speaks to Vlad and tells him he better get to the apartment. It’s very important and it’s about his love, his chosen one.

Fer continues arguing with Gonzalo. She reminds him that Flor is like family; she’s worked for them for 16 years. He tells her Jaime Correa confessed that Flor passed secrets to Prolasa. Fer says, so who is he while Flor is like a member of the family.

Meanwhile Dr. Fashion Faux Pas (plaid jacket, white skirt, black dominatrix stilettos and fake Chanel bag) continues interviewing Lili. Lili tells her that Barbara Greco killed her mother. The doc morphs into Barb in Lili’s mind, and Lili attacks the doctor and calls her a murderer. The doctora is able to calm Lili down. She knows how Lili feels and doesn’t want to do more harm.

Barb converses with Cam. She convinces him to jump in and help defend the family against Aurora. He actually has a single thought that Barb may be exaggerating a little. But, since he’s a smiling sociopath in residence, gives in and promises to do as Bar demands. Tonight, she says. But he has an important date tonight.

Venus is all over the place with Fred and Martina when the good doctora enters and asks Martina and Venus to leave. The doctora tells Ed about Lili’s psychotic episode. She says Lili’s actions are authentic. She prescribes some medicine. Ed wants to know if Lili can be cured. The doc says yes with therapy and support. Ed is relieved.

Cam says that Aurora has always appeared genuine to him. Barb wants proof that the mustia is bad for Santiago. She removes her little bottle of magic and hands it to Cam. She tells him it’s an accelerant so that the show can get on the road. Smarmy Cam says “aye, aye, captain.”

Venus is getting ready to go out and tells Martina how wonderful everything is. Uncle Steve has been taking care of her. Steve told her that if she didn’t pay attention, her glorious prince would turn into a frog. Steve and Franco have warned her that Camilo is a person she shouldn’t trust. Martina warns her of the most important thing, don’t fall in love. But, Martina is very in love with Carlos.

Ed says that Fernanda doesn’t have the least idea of his identity. He and Steve are trying to figure out who might have left the letters. Padre Bosco, Jacinto, Margarita, Gardenia, Don Silvestre, Steve all know his identity. Well, readers, that’s about half the cast, maybe even more than half the cast. Steve reminds Ed of Padre Bosco’s words that the enemy is within. Ed says it can’t be any of the above. Steve says it’s somebody here who knows your secrets and that it signifies that he is in danger. Enter Gardenia with a bad attitude announcing the arrival of Erika.

Fer continues arguing with Gonzo. She asks for 24 hours to prove her case. Gonzo gives her the 24 hours and not a minute more.

At Las Animas Erika inflicts another teeny bopper scene upon us. She refuses to accept that Ed is just that not into her. Anyway, Erika converses with Ed and tells him about Damian. He appreciates her interest in his business. She’s such a good friend of Fer. She wants to help. It seems to her that Damian is not convenient to Fer. He wants to know if Fer said that. It seems to her that things are worse since Fer saw Damian. Why, he asks. But she says to everyone Fernanda is still in love with Damian, but even the most intelligent make mistakes. He says that Fer made a mistake by loving Damian. You haven’t forgotten the woman with the broken heart at your party??

Fer reviews Flor’s letter declaring her innocence.

Ed says this “mystery woman” is not important. She wants to dig it out of him. He wants to know where she’s going with this. She wants to know who broke his heart. He’s gotten rid of her and it’s not important. She’s beside herself and he says that’s past and is not now important. Erika wants to get him to the altar. She loves him. He knows that and he reminds her that he’s not in any condition to return the sentiment.

Vlad drools over Pris. Pris asks him to do something and he says just ask even if it’s impossible. Her disgust is visible when he kneels in front of her. The future of her baby is in danger.

Erika says that’s not important. Even if he doesn’t love her what she feels is enough. He says both should be in love. He repeats that you’d marry me even if I didn’t love you. She says love can be planted and grown. Ed says she’s very honest and what she is proposing is very romantic – grow love. He thanks her for the idea.

What is Pris talking about. She tells him that Damian is using them to hide crimes and is pulling them into his web. She wants him to do something, not for her, but for her baby. Vlad says the most important thing for him is the baby’s well being. He is very grateful that she needs him. She looks like she’s going to throw up. He wants to look at her some more before she leaves, and he wants just one little kiss. Pris kisses Vlad in the same way somebody would kiss a salamander or a pig. You know, I’ll kiss a pig if you’ll give me a million dollars.

Damian enters Barb’s study in his own inimitable way. He grabs Barb and shoves her across the room. He accuses Barb of sending him to the cabana knowing full well that Fer was there with Franco. She accuses him of acting like a jealous husband. He says he’s a cuckold. She says that their romance (Fer and Ed) began the day of his wedding to Fernanda.

Fer is knocking at Vlad’s office door. He says he’ll handle it and puts Pris in a corner. He steps outside the office and Vlad tells her that he has to deliver a report. Fer plunges right into his office and says emphatically, “Priscila”.

Barb asks Damian if he ever suspected anything. He repeats that Soledad’s death ruined the party. Barb tells him that she discovered Fer talking with her lover. Damian leaves in a huff. Referring to Franco, Barb thought bubbles that Franco is stupid for falling in love with Fer. She exudes the scent of jealousy.

Fer says that she has something very brief to say to Vlad. She tells him that she knows that Damian had been staying at his apartment when he was missing. Fer lets him have it and won’t accept any excuse. Fer wants Pris to accompany her to Prolasa. Fer asks about Jaime Correa – Fer tells Pris that she’ll tell her the story on the way. The girls leave. Vlad calls Correa on the phone. He warns Correa that Fer is on her way over there. Correa is listening while Vlad warns him that one false word will sink the ship.

Barb tells Damian to get a grip. Damian is in a huff that Fer dared to make fun of him. He isn’t going to waste more time talking to Barb. Barb tells him about taking advantage of the opportunities presented here. He must be on good behavior, loving, etc. She says he must do as she says and that Fer’s infidelity will be fatal. He will act as a husband blind with jealousy. So you want to turn her into a martyr. He doesn’t give a damn about the Elizaldes beginning with Fer. He’s so bad that even Barb won’t believe what he can do. Once Dam discovers his wife’s infidelity, everything changes. It’s just the two of them, Dam and Barb. Dam will be a victim and Fer will be repudiated. Dam says Fer doesn’t want him to touch her. Bar says that will change. Then Barb sends him off to work at the company. He’ll be seen in the office as a devoted husband. Damian finishes his drink, and I need one, too, at this point.

Fer and Pris go to the car. Fer reminds Pris that she threatened to miscarry and should take it easy. Pris reminds Fer that Vlad is a long time friend. They discuss why Damian was in Vlad’s apartment. Pris asks about Franco. Fer says their projects are moving forward. Vlad calls Pris who pretends she’s talking to her doctor. Vlad reminds her not to open her mouth because it could be a disaster for them. Vlad sends kisses through the phone. At the last minute Pris bows out of the trip to Prolasa because she claims she has a doctor’s appointment. Fer goes on without her. Did I mention that Fer is still wearing the yellow sundress?

Flor is crying out her story to Jacinto and Margarita. She wants to know if even they believe her. They tell her she has to speak with Fer. It was Gonzo himself who put her out. Flor has to speak with Fer. They try to stop her. She tells them that Vlad is involved. She’s not lying. Margarita tells Flor not to open her mouth about any of those people. Flor cries.

Erika hasn’t left Las Animas yet. She’s in a philosophical discussion about love with Ed. He says marriage without love is a bit cold. In some places in the world marriage is not complicated by love. To him love is important. She asks if the mystery woman was his fiancée. He says it was a long time ago. He says what she’s saying is crazy. He’s melting a little. It’s unusual and he’s listening. He finally agrees and says that she can help get the memory of that woman out of his head. He looks like he’s in pain as he embraces her.

Rolando greets Fernanda at Prolasa and tells him that Pris was coming with her, but she had a last minute doctor’s appointment. Rolando tells her about the documents because the theft amounts to industrial espionage. She wants to speak to Jaime Correa and Rolando says he’ll send for him. Meanwhile Vlad is warning Jaime that he can’t say anything. Jaime is worried about his own hide. Rolando’s secretary calls Jaime in. Don’t you think this dog is going to say how high when the boss says jump?

At last Erika is about to leave and tells Ed how important the conversation was to her. Ed says he’s not a prince and she leans toward him a for a kiss. Gardenia’s blood pressure rises as she spies on them from behind some bushes. This turns out to be a real kiss. Score one for Erika.

Avances: Gardenia prays to God for help in getting rid of Erika. The rest of it looked like what just happened above.

And, I forgot to ask: Someone please post this to the sidebar for me. Thanks.

Labels: manana

Somebody posted big fat ugly spoilers on the MEPS page last night. I've erased them but this is a reminder to all - you are NOT allowed to tell what's happening after the episode that's currently running. Speculation is ok but no wrecking the surprise for other people. So you looked ahead on YouTube - this does NOT make you special or entitle you to spill the beans.

And, bloggers - since I'll be away for three weeks you need to be especially vigilant about deleting any offending comments on your own posts. If you find there's a problem that needs my attention, please send me a direct email as I won't be able to monitor the computer regularly.

Thanks all! Enjoy the rest of July!

Labels: announcements, manana