Caray, Caray!

Chris will hopefully be back with us next week!

• We start with the noncommital note Bouffy sent Liz, it contains no news about her precious ED card.
  
  Sofia comes and asks, why didn't y'all come by the salon? "Oh, we knew you had visitors." "It was the Archbishop! He received Ricardo with such affection!"
  
  Sofia's hairdo is like unto Marge Simpson's though not as colorful. She (Sofia) asks, can't y'all just try to get along with Camila? No, no, we'll go back to Mariana and see who'll take us in.
  
  Sofia asks if they'd like her to talk to Ricardo for them. "No, no more humiliations, don't tell him!"
  
  
• Ric and the Archbishop (Arch from now on) pop out of a carriage into an admiring throng, the witnesses ready to testify that Gonzalo was drunk and was first to draw a weapon. It appears Mario will have to stay in jail until Jorge is back from his trip with Foreman.
  
  Arch finds out Marcellino is in charge while Jorge is away and goes to see him. He lays it on thick with poor snivelling Marcellino: "Oh, nobody understands bureaucracy better than I do! But we're not in the High Court of Madrid here, much less the Vatican."
  
  The other guy comes in and says the guards are interrogating the throng of witnesses, "there are too many of them."
  
  Marcellino whines that the dead guy was a Personal Friend of Don Jorge. "Ah," says Arch, "but the woman who was offended was practically my goddaughter." Marcellino, impactado, shows a rodent overbite and squeaks in dismay - to whom should he be pandering, so hard to choose!
  
  Arch presses on: "I have a Personal Interest. Gonzalo provoked the situation, let's consider that justice has been done. I have far more important matters to settle, matters of the Crown, I have to be on a boat tomorrow, to go to Madrid and then Rome, and what shall I tell His Majesty? That I missed the boat due to a ridiculous little problem in a podunk called San Fernando? I won't leave until you release Mario. Prepare a document saying he's innocent, he was defending a woman. I give you a half hour before he must be freed."
  
  The other guy comes back and Marcellino does a "Uh? What just happened?" The other guy says Arch was right, Gonzalo was indeed drunk and did indeed draw his sword first. "But what will I tell Don Jorge?" "That the Monsignor made you do it." "You told me you have evidence that Ricardo is not a decent man?" "I can't tell you."
  
  Arch strolls along complacently telling Ric he knows when to use persuasion and when to threaten. His advice: "If you're going to live in this town, keep a cap on your boys and avoid this sort of problem."
  
  Vasco kisses Arch's ring, Arch tells Vasco a miller is performing an important service. After that weighty comment he gets into the coach.
  
  Back at Ric's, his boys are impressed he has such a VIP friend. "Haven't you noticed, he's a gentleman!" "A gentleman is somebody who can read and write and understand maps, and is smarter than you guys."
  
  
• Santiago is feeding the baby. Rita (temporarily not shouting) smiles at him from bed. They dandle the baby together and tentatively name her Ana. She wants Vasco and Ines to be the godparents, Saintly thinks Vasco is unworthy. GRita sneers the names of Camila and Ricardo, Saintly denies he was going to suggest them.
  
  GRita tells him Cami came to visit, and is undoubtedly jealous of the baby. "After all she's had sex with so very many men and has never managed to get pregnant."
  
  "Why do you hate her?" "I don't hate her, I just know her better than the rest of you do." Chilled, he says he has to get back to the forge. "If you weren't so stubborn you wouldn't have to go to work." To his back she calls him stubborn, proud and stupid.
  
  Saintly asks his mother why he wasn't informed that Camila came to call. "I don't want you thinking about her." She tells him Ric and Cami don't want her non-rape by Jorge to be broadcast to the world, and yes, Saintly, that's what Cami wants (not just Ric). "Why revive this misery?"
  
  Saintly CAN'T FORGET. "I can't accept my father after the way he humiliated me." Stomps out.
  
  
• Foreman exposits to Jorge during their excursion: "The Crown is sucking us dry. Now that the war is over, the corsairs are embarrassed by us. England and France forget we filled their coffers when they fought against Spain." "How many times have peace treaties been signed and then it's war again? Centuries!" "Everything has an end, and our good little thing is going to be over soon, so let's take advantage while we can. By the way, is Ursula your only child?" "No, I have a male heir."
  
  Nearby, Uriel and Alberto rehash. They agree Ric is probably a spy - after having plundered for England, he now wants to work for Spain to get his pardon. His involvement means the contraband business is more dangerous. "Yes," says Bouffy, "but he has an Achilles Heel - his wife!"
  
  They head off and, looking fine on horseback, reach the pirate settlement at the beach. Foreman says Juancho is more animal than man but La Paisana, who is older, used to be very pretty. "She was a pirate?" "No, a whore."
  
  The beach pirates ask who the fancy visitors are. Foreman tells Jorge he allows them a lot of liberties (e.g. to be sassy) because they are a Pirate Brotherhood. "If they go too far we just slash their throats." Jorge smiles happily: "That's an excellent remedy."
  
  Foreman commands scantily clad handmaidens to fetch food and drink. "These gentlemen will be fencing our goods, Don Jorge here's a VIP."
  
  Juancho wonders angrily why these guys have been brought in to do what he's always done.
  
  Chino to Juancho: "I've told you a thousand times I'm tired of being called Chino. I'm Japanese. "I don't know what that is and I don't care."
  
  Chino and La Paisana are sick of Juancho and tell Foreman to get rid of him or "we'll bury him." "Bury him," agrees Foreman. "You make quick decisions," marvels Jorge.
  
  Chino's name is really "Josie-Jay" according to the subtitles.
  
  
• Camila is fussing over Jimena's bruises, Jimena is fussing that Mario's in jail, she doesn't want him condemned. "What difference would a few more blows have meant to me?"
  
  
• At the forge, rehashing. Chip says Gonzalo was a no-account and is glad he's gone. Saintly: "don't say that, it's a sin to kill." Vasco reminds Saintly he was no saint the night Cami was taken, then the blood ran. Saintly stomps off and remembers that awful night. Behind him a saying is muttered: "If a lamb lives in a world of wolves, he'll be eaten." "Santiago's no lamb." "No, but he wears that skin."
  
  
• Arch and Ric rehash in the house. "Now that England and France have signed a peace treaty, they want the pirates to disappear, pirates mess with commerce and that's bad for the tax base."
  
  Ric asks: "Who's going to fight us, government employees or hired guns? Because if the goverment is hiring [people to dismantle the pirate empire], I'd take the job in exchange for my pardon." "You would betray your friends?"
  
  I was perplexed by Ric's response. My son and I puzzled over it a bit. If somebody got it better than I did, I'll fix this - I think Ric said no he wouldn't, but the only one he feels loyalty to is Foreman, who is also thinking of "retiring;" any of the others would stab him in the back without giving him time for a last prayer.
  
  He wants, at least, to warn the other pirates they court death if they don't leave the profession. Arch: "You're dreaming. The smart ones have figured this out already and the poor ones won't pay any attention. And as for Foreman, I know him better than you do, he'd put a knife in your back without blinking."
  
  Arch gives a bundle of documents to Ric. They declare him innocent. "Guard them well." [Surely that means they will soon be stolen. --Ed.]
  
  Ricardo shakes a bit taking them in his arms. "For once in my life I really love a woman and want a family, I want to have children and watch them grow, I want to live in peace. I'll do anything I have to if you'll pardon me, I haven't lived the life I would have chosen." No problem, Arch forgives him.
  
  They stroll out with Camila. Arch: "I'm afraid I have to leave for my boat. These [small time bureaucrats] can't get away with it."
  
  Ric says in order to free Mario, if the authorities don't, he'll storm the prison with fire and blood if he has to. Arch says don't be impulsive and leaves.
  
  
• Predictably, Camila tells Ric he shouldn't try to save Mario, it's too dangerous. "But Mario was my family for all those years. We have affection and loyalty for each other, he saved my life many times." "But you'll be risking your own life!" "OK, we'll wait a night - if they don't free him I'll find a way to get him out of jail and send him to La Iguana like Claudio...
  
  "But the most important thing," he continues, "is to save you! I didn't tell you before because I didn't want to upset you - but you have to give all the money back to Lis. I'm pretty sure Alberto has the ED card and will use it to help Liz get the inheritance, maybe they'll marry, maybe this is why Tia and Liz moved to the palace."
  
  She reminds him she'd have to go back to being a servant, and that she's spent a lot of the money already. "I'll make up the shortfall." "How?"
  
  He asks her not to give herself up, if she goes to debtor's prison before he's had time to make back the money he'll go crazy.
  
  "Forget me," she whines, "I'm just a burden, I just cause problems." "I've lived with problems all my life. We're part of each other. Get it in your head, I love you," etc. They will get a lawyer and after everything is set up they'll talk to her family - they'll lose the mill - but Vasco is young and strong and will recoup somehow...
  
  
• Mario strolls up to the mill, Vasco is relieved to see he's been sprung from jail. He begs Mario to stop Cami from giving back all the money, and besides, she's spent a lot of it already. He's still hoping Bernabe ate the ED card before he died. "Wait? Like, until your sister is in jail?"
  
  He goes to Ric's and gets great hugs from Jimena, who is making blessings. "Blessings, yeah, because this is the first time you've hugged me like this." "Fool! I'm just glad you're out of jail, make no other insinuations. but thanks for defending me."
  
  "You're special to me." "Why?" "Haven't you noticed I'm stuck to your skirts?" He again offers her a house and money but declines to wed, so she asks: "Are you married, do you have a wife somewhere?" "I have one in every port, but if you'll say yes I'll dump them all." "You're never serious."
  
  Ric is delighted to see Mario a free man - one problem solved. Cami thanks Mario for saving her brother's life. "Aww, any decent man would have done it - I did it even though I'm not a decent man."
  
  
• I lost the little bit which came next. GRita gets the gossip from Vasco's son and staggers out of bed to ask Santi and Ofelia: "So it's CAMILA's fault Gonzalo is dead?" Everybody is totally teed off with her, Ines is shaking with rage. "We thought you were acting like a lunatic because you were pregnant, but you're not pregnant any more and you're still crazy!" GRita asks, "If you knew your hubby Vasco was still shagging Doña Ursula would you be this calm?" "My son never slept with Camila!" shouts Ofelia. "Oh, that's what YOU think!" shouts GRita and Justo slaps her.

Labels: Pasion

Pastor and Anga are having a hot cup of tea before bed in their robes, right where we left them last night. Pastor asks his brother not to rub it in because he feels bad enough already for making a bad decision. Anga concedes, and tells Pastor he does feel for him. Pastor feels like resigning. Anga reminds him about the situation—what is Pastor thinking he can pick up? Pastor whines like a puppy and gives his bro puppy eyes but Anga isn’t interested and rubs it in anyway that Pastor can’t come crying to him and heads off to bed. Pastor sighs deeply and shrugs in resignation. [Ed. Note: no pun intended.]

At the Casa Cachón, worried family members wait anxiously outside the office where Fern and Nidia are still closeted. Marely is worried, she tells Kike, because Mami is drunk. Who knows what she’ll say? They moan about what they can do except wait. Mami is capable of saying most anything when she’s like this. Kike calms Marely but he’s pretty anxious, too.

Fern wants to know what’s up with Nidia. She tells him she’s watching him. Why? She wants to know what he’s up to (¿qué traes entre los manos?) She sarcastically asks since when is he calling her “Doña?” Fern sees his life passing before his eyes as he gets a revelation that Nidia’s got some memory back. She asks if there wasn’t something between them, or was she mistaken? Fern can’t lie, so she knows the truth. Nidia tells him they had their kisses, their desires. [Ed. Note: Well, isn’t THAT subtle of you, Nidia?] She realizes that what flashed in her brain really happened. She thinks maybe he even had it going with Yadi. Fern can’t answer that either and she knows he’s on his third Cachón dama. He defends himself – it was before Yadi married Kike. And our thing was accidental. [Ed. Note: Well, THAT’S polite of you, Fern, when you and she were drunk as skunks and hot to trot.] She accuses him of cajoling her (me engatusaste – coaxed, but stronger). The nerve of him, the womanizer! Nidia’s standing now, but barely since she’s staggering around like a loon. She’s not going to let him disgrace her daughter’s life. Fern shakes his head in disbelief and anxiety. He defends himself; he loves Marely. Fern tries in vain to convince a totally irrational drunk that he has changed and loves her daughter. Nidia wants to know what Marely knows. Fern says Marely has no idea what happened between him and her Mami. Nidia takes another swig of her 80 proof comfort and asks what it is he’s wanting? Their money? Their social position? [Ed. Note: QUÉ?????] Well, he couldn’t do it with her or Yadi so he’s dug his fangs into Marely! Fern tries again to convince Nidia that he really loves Marely and it has NOTHING to do with what they had together. It ended because Nidia herself wanted it to end. The person who was hurt was Fern. He tries his best, but Fern is no match for Nidia in this condition. Or any condition. Fern leaves the study, frustrated and discouraged.

Marely, Delirio, Yadi and Kike wait anxiously outside the office as Fern emerges. Nidia follows him out and lets him have it with both barrels in front of the family, with every one completely dumbfounded by this. Nidia, however, throws him out of her house. Fern is directed to never darken her doorstep again. Marely is impactada, and so are the rest. What’s it about? Fern tells Marely not to look his direction, because whatever he tells her it won’t be enough. [Ed. Note: that is so true.] Marely presses her mother for info. Delirio tries his luck to get some info and gets pushed aside. Yadi has no better luck. Nidia says she’s a wild beast when she protects her home. She and Fern pull at Marely in a tug of war, and Fern tells Marely to never forget he loves her and heads out with Marely trying to trail until Nidia yanks her back. Nidia spins around and falls on her okole. Her family is impactadíssima.

Juan thought bubbles as he lies on the hotel bed in a room that seems very empty without Juanito’s bright smile. Juan tells himself that it’s dangerous to be there with Lorena, the flesh is weak, and he doesn’t need to get involved in any more messes (bronca – row, ticking off) than he already is and it’s time to say his farewell to his peeps there, leave the capital and get back home.

The family Cachón stands in the hall wondering qué the heck is going on—now that they’ve deposited her on her bed to sleep it off. Marely says this can’t continue as it is and Delirio thinks they all agree on that. She’s never been known for her good judgment but now she’s worse than ever. Marely calls it by its name: alcoholism and it’s a sickness. [Ed. Note: here’s a new PSA from Yo Amo a Juan. I want to know when they’ll get to one on smoking? Maybe never, since we noted that Ma Pat smokes.] Marely thinks they need to collaborate for ensuring they avoid situations that move her to drink too much. Delirio thinks that’s not going to happen, since Nidia thinks pretty much everything’s a cause for celebration. He pontificates that he’s warned them, but he’s preaching in the desert. Marely cuts the pompous old A** off, thank heaven, and points out the most important thing is she gets therapy, starting tomorrow! Kike pipes in—“Alcoholics Anonymous!” Yadi doubts Nidia will go with this program. Marely thinks it’s so serious they have to push it. Delirio finally says something I can agree with—Marely is the right one to propose it to Nidia, because Marely is the epitome of wisdom (prudencia) and diplomacy. She needs to do it first thing in the morning because then she’ll be sober. They all agree it has to be Marely, except Marely, who is not thrilled with the notion.

In the morning, CL is just a few steps short of on his knees begging forgiveness from Paula, but he tells her all he wants is to take care of her. He doesn’t want to watch every step she takes. She just doesn’t understand how much he cares about her. She sighs and starts to clear the table, not wanting to discuss anything with him. She wants a change of topic. Paula wants to go back to work. CL tells her she can count on his support; she’ll be well received in Farell. Nothing doing, she’s not working next door to Moni. Whatever makes you happy, dear. Paula looks irritated as he takes her hand to put it to his cheek. CL is at a loss and sighs.

We wonder if Nidia’s coffee is stout enough to attack that hangover. Marely has entered the lion’s den and is fixing to have The Talk with Mami. Nidia says if it’s about Fern, she’s just saved Marely from a Horrible Fate. Nope, Mami, it’s about you getting sloshed and you can’t keep doing it. Nidia’s head aches and she’s not interested in going there. [Ed. Note: We bet it does.] Marely begins an impassioned plea: the last thing she wants is to offend her mother, but enough is enough. They’re all worried sick because the alcohol is winning. She’s got Nidia’s full attention for a change. Marely continues that Nidia’s fighting the whole world, changing into someone they don’t know. Am I so serious? Nidia wants to know, so Marely continues to lovingly exhort her. Alcoholism is a sickness, and like any other, it requires treatment. Nidia, usually so bubbly, is crestfallen and looks like she aged ten years in the past minute. Marely continues that no one is cured unless they want it. She urges her mother to accept help, because by herself she won’t be able to do it all. Nidia is touched by Marely’s strong feelings and tells Marely not to cry. Marely asks Nidia to try AA and Nidia concedes that if Marely thinks it best, she’ll do it. [The spirit is willing….]

Lorena looks at Juan accusingly—she couldn’t sleep last night. Juan tells her not to begin with that. She can understand why he insists on being so solitary, as handsome and virile as he is. He needs a woman like her to spoil him, take care of him, and is a wild beast in bed. Juan is momentarily pensive, but pushes away and tells her they’re going back to Achichipico today. Lorena is irritated-impactada. Huh? There’s nothing to gain by being in the D. F.

Nidia tells Marely that she’s still the baby of the house in Nidia’s mind. She loves Marely and wants the best for her. If that’s to marry, then she’ll support Marely, if Marely is sure of her feelings for Fern. Marely starts to speak but Nidia continues that all she asks is that Marely THINK about what she’s doing. Don’t be impulsive or pressured. They’re both in tears as Nidia says women, including those like her, marry for lots of reasons—except for love. Love is something so sacred that it has no price. Marely has been the lifeline of the house, the sensible, responsible one. She shouldn’t do something crazy. It would be one of those kinds of mistakes that can’t be reversed. It’s better to say “no” in time than to say yes and end up with misfortune. Marely tells Nidia she knows and they hug.

I adore the new intros they’ve given us the last couple of weeks with Molondrón dancing and singing. His eyes knock me out. The rest of him has its charms, too.

Marely advises the family, gathered around the breakfast table, that they all need to be very aware of Nidia’s needs right now (very pendiente, expectant, so I’m loosely interpreting intent). They need to try to understand her, and support her. They all murmur assent. Marely continues that the most difficult times will be when she’s fighting the urge to drink. Yadi warns Delirio not to go looking for fights with Nidia and don’t make it bad. He retorts –you, too! Kike is hopeful that Nidia will actually follow through (cumple) because she’s strong and he’d like to see the harmony return to the house. [Ed. Note: Hear, hear, Kike!] Marely points out it’s not just her, but everyone.

Profa Amarga cheerfully [Ed. Note: Read that “snottily”] asks her hubby how his move to another department has gone. How does it feel? Is he proud (rozagante) and happy? He tells her it helps relieve some irritations, rejuvenates one. [Ed. Note: What, they talk about this in the hall at the U? They don’t live together any more?] She makes an obscure comment and he asks what she means. She obliquely talks about him getting off on the right foot and asks if he know who urgently wants to talk with him. Nope, no idea. The big cheese. He told me to let you know he wants you in his office. Right. Now. Topete is impactado and gulps. The Director.

CL has a Very Important task for Pastor. It’s just the kind Pastor loves. Pastor tells CL he has no idea where Juan is. Nope, it’s not about Juan, although CL still wants to find out his whereabouts (paradero). Paula needs work and Pastor’s going to find it for her. Pastor can contact all of CL’s cronies, surely one will have work for her. Nope, CL KNOWS his cronies too well and that’s exactly why Paula’s not going to work for that bunch. Pastor proceeds to tell CL that once he promotes Pastor, Paula can be the HR Director for Farell, and everyone will have a new office and…..YA! (Enough already!) The record skids to a stop. CL accuses Pastor of being opportunistic and always thinking only of himself. [Ed. Note: Takes one to know one.] Pastor tries to protest, but he’s overruled as usual. The position he’s to find can’t be in Farell. That’s her request. And second, it’s got to begin yesterday. See what you can come up with fast. Oh.

Topete slowly emerges from a University office. Profa Amarga is waiting like a wolf that’s spotted fresh meat. He glares and walks by her but she has the last word, as usual. [Ed. Note: Are we all beginning to get the idea why he wanders? Which came first, folks—the chicken or the egg?] What’s this face about, Nacho? What did the Director say? He turns back with determination—how was she involved in this? What are you talking about? He tells her she knows perfectly well—they fired him. Okay, so maybe it was she. Has she told him any lie? Does he think he can pass the Code of Conduct through the Arc de Triomphe? [Ed. Note: I consulted our Very Best Dicho Resource, and she says it’s coarse and doesn’t look like it, but it basically means disrespect the Code of Conduct. I know about this from my Univ teaching days—profs DON’T mix it up with students. Marga put it to Nacho coarsely, but it looks refined because it’s so subtle only a native would know what it really means. Thank you, Maricruz, for enlightening me.] IOW, does he think he can disrespect the Code of Conduct for a university professor? Topete wants to know why she did this to him. Amarga bares her horsy teeth and hisses that no one makes a fool of her, that’s why. He retorts that she’s odious and a real louse. He can’t comprehend how he could have taken up with her in the first place. (Fixed on her at some time). She snidely tells him to save his screeching for later, because this is just the beginning. That shameless woman, she’d better watch out, too, because Amarga won’t rest until they both pay for what they’ve done. Topete asks what they’ve done, the frustration clear in his face. She retorts they’ve made a fool of her and mocked her in front of the entire university. [Ed. Note: As if you weren’t doing it well enough yourself.] He spits back that she can do whatever she likes but the only one who’s going to be embittered is her. He’s going to come out on top. They stare each other down.

Yadi whines to Nidia that they can’t keep fighting forever. Nidia strokes the baby’s cheek and retorts. We note two things about the baby; it’s a girl, judging by the pierced earrings, and the kid is still doped up or whatever because she still isn’t stirring at all the commotion around her. This is one low maintenance kid. [Ed. Note: What I want to know is how come my first granddaughter was NEVER like this when I was babysitting her, no matter how hard I worked to placate her?] Nidia points out it began with Yadi’s lack of respect. Yadi continues her whine. She doesn’t want Mami mad with her. Nidia says Yadi’s on conditional probation (libertad condicional). Yadi hugs her Mami and tells Nidia that she doesn’t know how happy Yadi is that Nidia agreed to go to AA. She IS going, right? Well, of course! She gave her word to Marely. Nidia gives thanks to the heavens for her lovely daughters, and so good. They’ve made her respond and stopped her in time. Nidia gives Yadi all the right answers; they’ve done a lot for her and the rest is up to Nidia. She tells Yadi not to worry because their Mami is a new woman in every sense of the word. Yadi hugs her and says how happy she is. We wonder about what Nidia’s smile really means.

It’s a lovely day outside Farell. Kike stops the truck to drop Marely at work; Marely thanks him and he tells her she’s welcome. At least they get along. He stops her, though, because he has something to mention about Juan. What’s up with him? Well…Kike stutters….Juan wonders if Marely still cares for him. Marely is bemused by this question—where’s it coming from? Well, Kike doesn’t know and he told Juan that Fern proposed. Kike tries to confirm she’s in love with Fern, right? Doesn’t she want to marry him? Marely’s not sure. Kike tries to talk her into thinking about it, because if she still has feelings about Juan, it’s not too late. Marely says it’s really late and we don’t know if she means Juan or work. She thanks him again and bails. Kike chews his lip in concern for Marely.

Fern is waiting in the lobby at Farell, talking with some lobby lizards. He excuses himself quickly to walk with Marley to her desk. Marely apologizes profusely for her mother’s behavior the night before, excusing Nidia because she was so drunk. Fern tells her not to worry, he understands. Marely wants to know what they discussed in the study. Fern brushes it off. What’s important is Nidia doesn’t think he’s worthy of Marely. She tells him not to be offended because to her mother there’s not going to be a man who deserves her daughters. Ivonne watches avidly from behind them as they talk. Fern tells Marely it’s not important if her mother opposes their marriage. What’s important is that both of them are secure in what they’re doing and the rest of the world doesn’t matter. Marely tries to interrupt and Fern exhorts her that they are united in this. Their love will remain intact and the rest of the world will be below. He kisses her hand and she looks at him, a little concerned.

Kike is excited to see Juan waiting at the Central Market. Why is Juan here? He breaks the news that he’s saying his farewells to go back to Achichipico. Kike thinks it’s not a good idea, especially right now. Why? Nidia rejected Fern as the future husband for Marely. Juan is impactado. Between him and Juan, Kike’s sister-in-law still has feelings for Juan.

Juan is doubtful about that. He thinks Marely and Fern have it together. He reminds Kike that Kike himself said Marely’s dying for Fern. Kike waves Remolacho away and turns back to Juan. So what? If Doña Nidia won’t accept Fern marrying Marely, it won’t happen. Kike tells Juan it wasn’t the alcohol speaking, either, that made her react like that. Juan wonders if she finally remembered that something happened between her and Fern. Kike is sure of it. Remo comes back and Kike eyes him warily but keeps talking. It’s one thing for her to let Marely go out with the guy, but a whole different thing if he’s going to marry her. Kike tells Remo to get lost and Remo huffs away. Kike speculates that something more happened between Nidia and Fern than he wants to admit to them. Juan wonders if Fern and Marely ever have talked about it. Kike retorts—do you think Marely could be like nothing ever happened if she KNEW? C’mon, buddy. You know her. Nope, she’d have given him the brush off (sent Fern on vacation)….permanently. Juan is still doubtful.

Meanwhile, Ivonne spies behind Fern as he continues to reassure Marely and himself of his devotion and persuade her that they should marry in spite of Nidia’s outburst. He doesn’t want her to let her mother put ideas into Marely’s head. She tells him not to get anxious, it won’t happen. Last night’s scene was the product of the alcohol. She continues that her mother is sick and needs help; Fern agrees. She thanks God and Fern’s calmness – her mother has accepted to go to AA. He wonders if everything is still the same between him and her? Of course, silly—all Marely asks is that they realize what a serious step this is and take their time making the decisions. Marely thinks it’s reasonable; she doesn’t want to end up like her Mami and Delirio. [Ed. Note: How can she even BEGIN to think Fern is in the same weight class as Delirio? THAT doesn’t sound logical.] Anyway, Fern thinks it’s better for the present not to hang out at her house and Marely has to agree. Fern crouches so he’s eye to eye with Marely at her desk. He hesitantly tells her that maybe her mother doesn’t like him because in the past he made a lot of foolish mistakes, but that’s all changed and it’s behind him. Marely smiles sweetly—she understands and he doesn’t have to explain a thing to her. But, he wants to, he asserts. He wants her to know that since he fell in love with her, the old Fern died and there’s a new one born in his body. What he was before and what he is now are completely different even if the outside looks the same. Does she understand? Marely smiles again and tells him she does, and she appreciates the lovely things he says to her. She leans over and fondly touches him, telling him she loves/cares for him, too. They smile sweetly at each other while a thundercloud forms across the lobby at Ivonne’s desk.

Juan sits back and contemplates Kike’s revelation. He thinks Marely has to know the truth BEFORE she accepts Fern as her husband. Remo walks back and forth, but the boys keep talking. Juan thinks if nothing is said, and she marries someone’s going to spill the beans. Six months, tops. Then what? Kike does agree here, because these kinds of things always re-surface (come back to the light, relucir). But, who’s going to have the guts to tell her the truth? Kike won’t, not even in jest. Juan thinks it has to be Fern’s job. Kike chortles. Who’s going to convince Fern to dig that hole to bury himself—I’m just saying. Juan jumps to action—he’ll do it, and he’s going to strike while the iron’s hot [okay, that’s my loose translation.] Juan strides off and Kike follows, yelling “are you crazy?”

How exciting, Paula can still smile. Only when she’s talking to Marely, though. Wow, Fern gave her a ring? Yeah, but Paula should have seen the hissy Nidia threw (sainete - one-act farce). Why was she angry, Paula wonders—she doesn’t want Fern for a son-in-law? Marely blames the tequila again, and tells Paula that Nidia threw Fern out of the house. Paula thinks it’s amusing. Sheesh. Marely is sorry for poor Fern. Paula can just imagine Nidia’s meddling. Marely laments that neither of them well be well received by the other now. [Ed. Note: Oh, Marely, if you only knew.] Marely says she has more doubts all the time. She cuts Paula off because Fern is approaching; how about if they have lunch and keep talking then? She hangs up and greets Fern, who leans over briefly to look at her fondly as Ivonne glowers. [Ed. Note: This has to be the perfect punishment for Ivonne’s rejection of Fern—his new girlfriend faces her. It works for me.]

Juan and Kike drive toward the showdown at the OK Corral and Juan tells Kike he’s going to show Fern the light. After that, could Kike do him a favor and drop him at the hotel, then run him to the bus station? Kike thinks he should just take him directly to the hotel because at Farell he could run into CL. AND? Kike tells him not to be an idiot, this guy is his archenemy. He’s just looking for trouble—the earth shakes when these two face off. AND? No, he’s not going to watch over his shoulder for some rich dude, a loudmouth at that. If Juan’s going to bump into him, he’s going to bump into him—it’s God’s will. Kike warns him about getting into a mess.

It took all my strength to fast forward past the commercial for Pasión and not stop to watch it. Gotta finish before I can watch Pasión! ☺

Yadi probes about what came down between Nidia and Fern [Ed. Note: sorry, couldn’t help myself there.] How come Nidia is so opposed to him? Nidia groans, hand on hungover head. Yadi thinks he’d make Marely a good hubby. She loves him and he’s changed a lot. Nidia chuckles sarcastically. Yadi ramps up her questions about what might have happened in another life between Nidia and Fern. Some little “thing?” It was of no real importance. They should try to leave it in the past. Nidia denies that he liked her and if he had, she wouldn’t have liked him. Oh, really? She accuses Nidia of having selective amnesia. Nidia denies knowing what she’s talking about. Finally, Nidia tells Yadi she doesn’t like the idea of Fern as Marely’s husband for one simple reason—Marely doesn’t love him, she’s still hopelessly in love with Juan. Nidia sits up and looks Yadi in the eye, holding the bag of ice to head, to deliver this punch. Yadi has to admit she’s probably right there.

Gustavo, looking hot as ever, gives Moni a kiss as he enters her office with his portfolio. Moni admires his on-time performance. He wants to start off right with their new business association. Okay, then we’ll go see CL right off. Gustavo waves her on to lead the way. Moni looks back at Gustavo, remarking that she can’t wait to see CL’s face when he sees the surprise they have for him. Gustavo chuckles back at her, leaving us thinking we’ve missed some scene here.

CL, meanwhile, is stalking Paula by phone. Where has she gone? No, let me guess. She’s out to eat with her sis. No, he’s not a psychic, but that’s Paula’s habit. He looks like he ate a lemon whole. Moni sticks her head in the door—“May we?” CL tells Chelo goodbye and waves Moni in with Gustavo. They greet each other like the best of friends. Sheesh. What a pleasure, and a miracle to have you visit us, CL tells Gustavo. Double sheesh. Gustavo doesn’t want CL to think he’s forgotten his friends. Of course. Sheesh in italics, bold, and underlined. Hypocrisy, thy name is César Luis Farell. CL offers drinks, but everyone’s fine. CL stares as Gustavo seats Monica in her own ex spouse’s office. Gustavo smiles back at him. Once they’re all seated, CL asks about his business in Miami. Gustavo says it’s great; he never thought he’d have a company like the one he has now. He had CL as an example and here Gustavo is now, following his lead. “At the summit of Everest!” CL remarks. Not exactly that, but anyway….Gustavo wants to show the work he’s prepared for their campaign. CL does his best impression of “ecstatic to see an old friend.” Is Gustavo convinced?

Fern strolls down the street outside Farell. He’s just put Marely into a cab to go see Paula [Ed. Note: in a couple of years, couldn’t they be buying cars with the cab fare and the bus fare, etc.?]. We hear a honk, and Fern looks around to see Juan and Kike pull up in the truck. Juan wonders why he’s outside. [Ed. Note: I’d say it’s your dumb luck Fern’s outside, Juan, and you don’t have to run into CL plus there won’t be any collateral damage to the lobby at Farell from the fight that’s coming.] The boys greet each other. Fern wants to know why Juan’s there. Juan explains that he’s on the way back to his hometown, but on the way…..he stumbles around a bit…..he wanted to….he needs to have a few words with Fern. Could he? Sure. Rumor has it you proposed marriage to Marely. Yes….got some problem with that? He tells Juan he loves Marely with his whole heart. That much, my Fern? More than you can imagine. Like I never thought I could love anyone. Enough to tell her what happened between her mother and you? Juan asks gently, but firmly. Fern’s countenance darkens (if that’s even possible) and he looks cornered.

The cab has to turn back. Is there a problem?—Marely has forgotten her billfold. The cab driver slaps it into reverse and proceeds to back all the way to the office.

Fern denies that anything happened between him and Nidia. Don’t play the lunatic, Fern. The one who lost the memory is Nidia, not you. Something happened. Sure, something happened and it wasn’t any little old thing. Fern retorts that like they say, a gentleman has no memory. Ah, but not when you plan to marry the daughter. He’s not getting around it that easily. Who are you taking for a fool? (whose inexperience do you want to take advantage of - ¿A quién quieres a chamaquear?) Fern says it’s his own mess. Juan says in the long run, not really. In the end, he’s going to affect the one he says he adores so much. Or, what does he think about how Marely will feel when she finds out? Fern retorts there’s nothing to find out because Juan’s imagining things that didn’t happen. Juan spits back that he’s not imagining anything and sooner or later she’ll find out. Fern asks if Juan plans to be the snitch (rajón – tattletale, gossip). Juan tells him no, he’s gone soon, he’s not going to be the snitch so don’t worry there—but someone will. Doña Nidia, for example, someday might spill the beans (soup). Kike’s watching on, concerned. [Ed. Note: Juan’s something else when he’s righteously indignant. His shirt is open to the waist, his muscles bulge, and the shark’s tooth is prominent.] And then where will you be, and how will that leave Marely? I’m not saying all this to annoy you, but so you do things the right way. Fern retorts that he should look who’s talking, the expert in relationships who always tells the truth? Kike has gotten out of the truck; this discussion is almost out of control between his friends. Juan points out that’s exactly why he’s doing this, because he’s ended up wretched. If Marely hears this from someone else, Fern will end up losing her. Fern retaliates by pointing out that Juan’s Licenciada used him and discarded him when she tired of Juan. But that doesn’t give him the right to meddle in other’s lives. The keep arguing about Juan’s interference and Kike tries to get them to stop, but he’s not loud enough. The boys are still fighting about Juan’s interference when the cab pulls up. A very worried Marely hurries to see what’s wrong here and Kike tries to intervene. The boys have gotten a little bit physical as she angrily asks what’s happening.

Delirio yells up the stairs for Yadi, and when she doesn’t come instantly he grumbles and retreats into the office, closing the door behind him. Oops, he’s too slow. Yadi bursts into the office, smashing it in his face as he gets compressed behind it. He screams in pain and she screams that his screams are going to wake the baby. He tells her the telephone is for her. She tells him to hang it up so she can take it in the living room. He groans again, and tells her to hurry it up since he’s expecting an IMPORTANT international call. Yadi hears a familiar snide voice asking if Nacho has called her with his good news? Yadi wonders if Profa Amarga has nothing better to do than waste someone’s time? Amarga snidely tells Yadi she just called to update Yadi, but hasn’t Profe Topete told her anything? Anything about what? Oh, what a shame—she didn’t want to spoil the surprise, but anyway, Yadi should ask her dear lover. Amarga hangs up with a smug smile. Someone slap her, please.

Yadi makes the Fiera gesture at the phone (aka the “furious” American Sign Language sign) and grumbles as she hangs up. Nidia gingerly works her way down the stairs. She asks who it was and what’s happening. Yadi just looks at her and shakes her head a little. In the office, Delirio gently hangs up. He got an earful. He scratches his head and sits down to think about it, no doubt to figure the angle in it for him.

Yadi scolds the boys. What do you mean nothing happened, when I saw you pushing each other? Fern says it was just in fun (cotorreo), wasn’t it, buddy? Kike seconds the motion. Juan just faces off with Fern, hands on his hips, glaring. Some good fun. Kike explains Juan is leaving for his hometown and you know these two. They get all heated up. Juan says it’s more or less that, we have our differences, you know? You know what they say, between the jokes, the truth makes a brief appearance (entre broma y broma la verdad se asoma). He says this very pointedly to Fern. What differences, Marely wants to know. Fern says they’re all foolishness and Juan chimes in, cutting him off, that’s exactly what they are. The foolishness that people might do when they don’t think things through clearly. Wow, the consequences that might bring about! Fern stares back at Juan, concerned. Okay, Juan says, I just really came to say goodbye. He goes to kiss Marely and they hug while Fern looks irritated and thrusts his hands in his pockets. Juan asks Marely to give a hug and kiss to her Mami and Yadi for him, and even say goodbye to Perafán so he won’t feel left out. Marely reluctantly agrees to do it—she clearly doesn’t want Juan to go. He asks that she tell them all how much he cares for them. Marely wants to know if he’ll come to see them again, or is it forever this time? One never knows, my little rose garden, but I carry you always in this little chest. He’s holding her hand and brings it with his as he taps his chest. She smiles lovingly up at him. She sadly says that she’s suddenly feeling like she’ll never see him again. But, don’t pay any attention to me, those must just be my ideas. He leans over to kiss her again and Marely tells him to take good care of himself. He tells her to do the same. Fern protectively fishes her back to his side and says they don’t want to detain him any longer, because Juan wouldn’t want to miss his bus. Juan steps forward and with a serious look tells him to be careful (abusado). Fern shakes his hand and tells him the same. Kike urges Juan to hurry. Juan waves as Marely waves back sadly and Fern holds onto her protectively.

Nidia shakes her glass of Alka-Seltzer up and sighs. Yadi asks where she’s off to. Nidia’s going to her first AA meeting. She’s got to pay the bill for life’s pleasures. She hoists and says she’s going, before she begins to drink again. Then downs her drink of Alka-Seltzer. (Does anyone know what a “guarilaque” is? Nidia said that and all I can find is that it precedes a song name for download, like it means “musical selection” or something—or the name of the selection. It also seems to be the name of a place, but what?).

Fern and Marely walk back toward Farell while the taxi leaves. Fern (with all due respect and the great caring Fern has for him) has some kind of problem. He thinks he’s in the role of the Cachón guardian. What’s up with that? Marely points out that her father gave Juan that role before he died. Fern understands that clearly but he doesn’t like Juan being jealous, acting like the Papa with Fern, questioning Fern’s feelings for Marely. Really, though, nothing was happening there. Fine, Marely believes him. He hesitantly asks about her farewell with Juan—she was almost in tears. She sighs. It’s because she cares about him as a very good friend, like a brother. Her reality and her present is Fernando. That’s why she’s decided to married him. Fern is touched and thanks her for accepting his proposal of marriage. She thanks him for asking. So, when’s the wedding? Fern tells her in less than a month—A MONTH? Well, don’t tell me it’s too soon. How about next week, tomorrow, oh heck, let’s go find a judge! He calls for a taxi and picks her up, grinning. She makes him put her back down, laughing and calling him a goofball (loco). Three months would be better. Okay, Fern agrees, three months. Perfect. Marely asks how is it now between them? What? You know, my mother’s going to go nuts about this. Fern says he can do whatever’s necessary because he knows they’ll soon be together. He picks her up and kisses her [which makes your recapper cringe, but your recapper can’t say why, exactly].

Kike talks to a silent and sober Juan. Juan has done his part, and talked with Fernando. There’s nothing more he can do and he played his part. They exchange thoughts on the situation. Kike says if Fern tells her the truth, Marely might give him the brush off, and Juan says he sure hopes Fernando won’t fail to talk to Marely while he still has time. If not, she’s going to really suffer. Kike agrees—it’s going to be on Nidia’s and Fernando’s consciences otherwise.

Delirio asks Yadi who was on the phone—what little friend called and left you so deflated (patidifusa)? Yadi wonders why he wants to know, the old busybody? Busybody? Me? Yes, YOU! She slams her magazine shut and goes upstairs. Delirio remarks that these Cachón are so moody.

A cab has deposited Nidia in an abandoned looking part of town in front of a small whitewashed building with blue lettering on it. The large sign over the door says “San Angel.” Nidia shudders and starts toward the door after hesitantly looking the area over a little, then skids to a stop, turns, and minces rapidly down the street.

Gustavo describes his strategy to record into the public’s brain the products they’re selling. He moves around CL’s desk with his laptop, showing CL the screen with the prototype of the sales campaign visuals. He’s proposing a youthful slant to the campaign, and targeting places like NY, Miami, London, etc. Moni glows about this, Gustavo is a genius and this has her ecstatic (making me crazy—we bet he is, Moni). CL says it seems amazing (bárbaro) but he has a few doubts--and a big, fake smile. Moni has none—it fascinates her. She waxes eloquent about his proposal. He’s going to bring them out of the ice age. Gustavo leans over and kisses her, to CL’s annoyance. He describes how they’ll be into television, Internet, radio, etc. CL does his best impression of skeptical and puffs away.

Kike tells Juan there won’t be enough room for all the boxes of make-up, shoes, and dresses. Juan says they have to each be separately boxed so he knows where everything is. Lorena just stands by and admires the muscles as Juan hoists the boxes up onto the truck. Kike fusses and Juan wonders what’s wrong. Kike begins to allude to the problems at home. One begins to wonder if one’s really needed here. He begs Juan to let Kike go home to Achichipico with him. [Okay, good, he’s the only one who hasn’t visited except Marely, right? Oh, and CL.] Juan is impactado.

Paula is back to whining. It sucks to be her. She can’t stand when CL touches her, looks at her, talks to her, pretty much every time he breathes it irritates her [Okay, I added that last part.] It bothers her to hear him or feel him near her. She wishes it would all disappear and she could rub it out of her memory. Marely tries to calm her-these feelings don’t just affect CL, but also the baby. Paula knows but this is beyond her strength. Marely wonders if she’s sure this isn’t because of the pregnancy, and those raging hormones? Paula admits that’s what Ana tells her, that there are pregnant women who can’t stand their husbands through the pregnancy. She just needs to be patient, calm, this too shall pass. Sure, some of this has to do with the pregnancy, but some of the things are not related to it. Some things get bigger and bigger inside one over time. What things, Marely wants to know. Well, Juan Dominguez. Marely is struck, clearly uncomfortable. “Paula.” Paula wants to confess something. She’s at the point of taking off running to find him and tell him she loves him. She wants to get far away from here forever. Marely points out that isn’t going to happen. Juan’s gone back to his hometown and isn’t ever returning. [Ed. Note: Like that stopped Paula from running after him last time.] Paula is impactada and we’re thrilled to remember that any similarity to reality is purely coincidental.

Monday: Will CL have to do something drastic? Will Paula go to Achichipico again? Will Paula tell CL she can’t stand him?

Vocabulary

¿Qué traes entre los manos? – What’s he up to? (What’s he got between his hands?)
Me engatusaste – he coaxed me, cajoled me, but stronger—maybe even seduced me
Bronca – row, ticking off, mess
Prudencia –wisdom, my loose translation
Cumple – follow through
Rozagante – proud
¿Es que tu crees que puedes pasarte el reglamento por el Arco de Triunfo? – do you think you can disrespect the Code of Conduct?
Libertad condicional - conditional probation
sainete - one-act farce, but in Nidia’s case it’s a hissy
¿A quién quieres a chamaquear? – Who are you taking for a fool? (whose inexperience do you want to take advantage of )
Rajón – tattletale, gossip
Cotorreo – in fun
Patidifusa - deflated

Jeanne

Labels: Juan

Boris identifies the brother he and Marina found along the river as Hugo. Boris tells him that Soledad is safe and that Alcides is missing and presumed dead. Hugo whispers something to Boris, which probably was telling him not to let anyone else know know that he has survived. A totally unconvincing Boris tells Los Burques and Dr. Max that he's giving up the search and returning to the city since Hugo is certainly dead. Dr. Max is very suspicious but Boris takes off in the wagon with poor Hugo bouncing around the back under a blanket yet again. Soon, however, Hugo is having a catalepsy attack. Boris and Marina meet Ester and Soledad and Boris manages to make Soledad suspicious as well.

In a great scene, Ursula makes Rebeca trip and fall and warns her against home wrecking at the Obregon's. Ursula also chews out Lucas who immediately takes to drink in order to face Ester.

Enrico ends up with a few pages of the treasure-map book.

Boris takes Hugo to the Hacienda Montenegro and leaves him with Marina to go fetch the thermal coffin thingy from Dr. Max. Marina is nervous about being left alone and with good reason. In short order, Arturo and his henchmen show up looking for Alcides' money; Soledad and Ursula arrive looking for Boris and Los Burques come to what they believe will be an emply house looking to steal something.

Marina somehow manages to get Hugo under the bed when Arturo and Soledad come into his room. However, when Arturo threatens Soledad and a lamp is broken starting a smoky fire, Hugo gets the psychic call, wakes up and manages to get Soledad out of the burning house without her seeing her rescuer. Boris and Los Burques take care of Ursula and Marina. Ester and Lucas, in a ridiculous-looking hat, show up to collect Soledad and Ursula. Boris convinces Inspector Duarte that he has some reason to be at the house and Arturo and his henchmen are arrested. Hugo says that helping Soledad makes him feel much better.

The only other thing that happened is that Paquito has convinced the judge that there are sufficient irregularities with Hugo's death to open his grave. On Monday's episode, we see the now reduced Team Hugo of Boris, Marina and Hugo watching this from hiding.

There has been a lot of speculation on Telenovela World about whether this is really Hugo or Alcides pretending to be Hugo. For the reasons that I stated in my post yesterday, I am convinced that this is Hugo. We now have the situation where Soledad believes that Hugo is dead and that Alcides tried to kill her. If Hugo pretends to be Alcides, he will have to try and win Soledad back against her new prejudices against Alcides and her love for her dead fiancé.

On Telenovela world, there was also a posting about a Peruvian actor, Ismael de la Rosa, who just signed on to LT as a rival love interest for Soledad. We already know that Eloisa is going to go after Hugo/Alcides.

However, I am sure Alcides will be back eventually.

Labels: la traicion

Thank you for your patience, readers. Not only was I busy today, but I have been robbed of one hour by the start of Daylight Savings Time. Our friend 5ft avoids this by living in Arizona, right?

Anyway, on with the show. This is the best episode yet of this novela, I think. There were so many touching revelations and not really anything to mock. Even Rorgan was less stupid than usual . . . but that's not saying much. I nominate Braulio for best performance by a supporting actor, with Mili, Connie and Regina holding their own.

We start with a reprise of Thursday's end. Mili and Alex discuss Andrea's "pregnancy." Alex wants to stick with Mili, but she is having none of it--if he's going to have a baby, he must not make the mistake of her father and leave her alone to hate her missing pop. He must forget her. She cries. I could only think that she is a wonderufl actress for 15, as it didn't seem melodramatic but really sad.

Meanwhile, Horacio is looking for Mili to tell her the good news.

Mili is crying in the dorm, and Alex comes in. They kiss, and he tells her that he knows she really wants him. They will find a way. But she reminds him that a child needs parents, and his place is with Andrea.

Braulio is in Luci's room. She needs a more efficient gardener--or Horacio needs help. Braulio will look into it.

Stupid comic relief for the day: Horacio can't figure out how to break the news to Mili. Rorgan suggests that he first tell her that he has a bad disease. Then when he tells the real news, she'll be relieved. Even Horacio the dim bulb has the sense to know this is a bad idea.

Another one of those tense family dinner table scenes. Connie asks Alex when the wedding will be, and Andrea answers that they don't know yet. Connie wants to know why Alex can't be a man and answer for himslef and says: You idiot, stop being a kid and put on some pants. Regina says he shouldn't talk that way in front of strangers, referring to Sergio. No, pipes up our gal Val--he's my boyfriend! Sergio stands up and says he wants to says something. Val says that maybe this is not the right time, but no, he forges ahead. He has never felt this way, etc. -- Sr. Belmonte, I want your daughter's hand in marriage. Connie says it is an honor.

Luciana offers congratulations, but Alex asks if she's sure she wants to rush into this. Val says, Alex don't start.

Now someone asks how the house in Cuernavaca is. Karla, standing by with a pitcher of water, and forgetting that servants aren't supposed to interrup the conversation, says "oh it's beautiful." Uh-oh. Que the heck, they all wonder. She says, Oh yes, I imagine it's beautiful. Connie says that he and Damien just concluded a wonderful deal there.

Hugo congratulates his cousin on her engagement. Now Luciana pipes up that Alex should make sure that Andrea has a pregnancy test and a paternity test too (although I imagine the latter would have to wait till after the baby is born). Finally someone has some sense!

However, Val is shocked that Luciana is insinuating something so bad about her good pal Andrea. Connie asks if she's drinking again, and Luciana says she knows from experience. Regina says don't bring up the past like this. Alex actually agrees with his mother, however.
Alex says that after they have tests, he will set a wedding date. Connie smirks.

Rocky, testing the waters for Horacio, asks Mili what she would do if her father showed up. She says she'd hit him in the head. Oh well.

Sergio makes out with Val in the living room. Rorgan watches creepily from behind a pillar. He says that Sergio is sucking Val's soul out.

Now over at the orphanage, the nuns tell Gloria that it's time for her to leave. She is upset, but then they tell her that they got her a position at the Belmontes'. She is thrilled.

Horacio has sneaked into the house to talk to Mili. Caught by Braulio--go back to work he is told before he can make his big announcement.

Alex corners Mili now. She is still not changing her mind. She says that her "jefe" (using the word for boss to mean father, apparently) abandoned her. Alex can't do the same. Do you want your child to hate you the way I hate my father? she asks rhetorically and flees.

Luciana and Val are planning the wedding out in the garden. Morgan is again eavesdropping and pops in. Luciana trips and falls. She vows to speak to Braulio about disciplining the servants. Rorgan should just be locked up with Frenchy, as far as I'm concerned.

Rorgan rushes into the kitchen, where he finds Mili huddled on the floor crying. He tells her not to worry--she's not really abandoned, she has a papa. HUH?

The padre now introduces Gloria to Braulio, who is not surprisingly dubious, but he agrees to give her a probationary period. Revealing that she will henceforth function as the Gomer Pyle of this show, she says: Shazam, Braulio--your eyes aren't really so "apipisca" as Mili says. This seems to be an insult, but I don't know what it means--maybe cross-eyed, or beady eyed? I can't find a translation. Braulio sighs with the weight of the job ahead of him.

Mili now has a wonderful conversation with Regina. She kneels in front of her, so they are eye to eye. She asks Regina if she remembers when they discussed Romeo and Juliet. She is afraid of losing her love. I was a little confused by some of this, and I don't have time to rewatch it, but Regina says that sometimes love cools down with the little daily things of life anyway. She tells Mili that little by little she will forget. Here, Regina seems to be remembering something sad in her own life--more than just the loss of her grandchild. We had noted a few episodes ago that Regina had alluded to some love problem of her own, so this may be another reference.

Mili feels she is dying of love, like Romeo and Juliet--and her own mother. Is life worth living? She wants to do something great to make it worth the pain of living. Grandma gives her a motive. She asks Regina never to leave her, and Regina promises not to.

More silliness between Rocky and Horacio.

Connie is now having a revealing confession with the Padre. First the Padre wants to know what to do with the medallion--surely they'll have to give it back to Mili eventually. Connie wants everything kept secret for now because of the election. Padre confesses how he's worried about keeping Alex and Mili apart. Connie now reveals there's no improper relationship to worry about, because they're not really brother and sister--Alex is not his son! He rehashes the back story. Padre is impactado, but he is keeping the secret because of the sanctity of the confessional, and because Alex is going to marry Andrea anyway. Connie confesses that he feels like Rosario's killer. It is incredibly tragic.

Braulio now brings Gloria home to the mansion. In the kitchen, Mili is thrilled to find out her friend is moving in. Mili says, isn't it great that apipisca eyes gave you a job here! While the girls screech and high-five like two tweens who have just been handed free tickets to a Miley Cyrus concert, they don't notice that Braulio is rolling his apipisca eyes behind them. In fact, Braulio's performance here is brilliant--he just moved his eyes the slightest bit, yet conveyed volumes. He leaves them to their reunion while he takes the bags to the girls' dorm.

Mili introduces Gloria to Socorro. Soco says that any friend of Mili's is a friend of hers. Gloria says that any cook of Mili's is a cook of hers. Guffaws all around.

Mili tells all assembled that she has a new photo of her mom--first time she'd ever seen her! She goes to get it from her room. Meanwhile, Horacio hears this and doesn't understand, because he knows she's seen Roxana, so what gives, etc.

Meanwhile, Braulio is putting away the luggage and spies Mili's Bible and opens it to the photo: Rosario! Why does she have a picture of my sister, he wonders. Mili comes in and catches him. What are you doing with my things, with that photo of my mother? Your mother? Cut to commercial. Here comes another brilliant scene.

Back from commercial, Braulio attempts to compose himself, but he can barely hide his tears. Your mother? He holds the bunk bed for support.
Yes, says Mili--that's my "jefecita" (using that jefe expression again, this time in the feminine). Braulio asks her if she is sure. Yes, she says. She does not like him going through her things, and he may be the major domo, but he should not put his nose where it doesn't belong.

He says he is sorry, but the Bible was just there on the dresser and he's protecting it. She is dubious and says who'd steal a Bible? He says, yes, my sister . . . She says your sister stole a Bible? No he says, my sister had a Bible. Now he calms down a bit and asks her if he may ask one more question--has she had that photo a long time? No, she says, she just got it--but the first time she saw it, she knew it was her mother. Where is your mother, he asks. She tells him that her mother died at the convent when she was born. Braulio really seems not to know. Mili wishes she wouldn't have suffered, and Braulio cries. Rosario, he whispers. What? says Mili, obviously wondering how he knew her mother's name. Braulio says, er, I mean we should say a rosario (rosary) for her eternal soul. Mili leaves with the photo, and Braulio remains behind, clutching the Bible and whispering his sister's name.

Now I'm going to give short shrift to the Horacio story, because I can't stand that mistaken-identity plot line for one more minute. Horacio tells Mili he's her father, and Roxana is her mother, and she says no, my mother is dead, and then they realize that Lina is his daughter. Yay!

Over at the manicomio, the doctor is giving injections to Frenchy. The nurse says that if they knew more about him they could cure him. She tells the doctor that Mrs. Belmonte is involved? You mean those really rich Belmontes of Belmonte Industries? Sure 'nuff. The wheels are turning.

Horacio now has a happy reunion with Lina, but she insists still that she has no mother. She realizes her mother is "that girlfriend of Damien's." She will never get over being abandoned.
All the girls get together and are happy, however--Lina found her papa, and Gloria has a happy new home, and Mili has a picture of her mama. They all admire the picture and think that Mili looks just like her mother.

Braulio now goes to see Regina. He seems perturbed, and Regina can tell. He asks if she remembers that she thought Mili reminded her of Rosario--yes, she says--sometimes they seems surprisingly alike. Why is he asking? He has no answer. Regina is not fooled--she knows something is up.

In our last scene, over at the office, the doctor arrives and asks Andrea if he can see Connie: He has something very important to tell him about his mother . . .

Labels: guapos

More surprises in an episode that was a little less intense than Wednesday's.

Labels: la traicion

This was a 2-hour show, so I’m doing one part tonight, and I’ll try to get the second part posted by tomorrow mid-day. If I can’t figure out how to add to this text, so I’ll make a second header for it.

We’ve left the neuropsych ward where Francois just got stuck with a giant traqnquilizer syringe after saying I’m going to kill Constancio for having taken my place! and now we’re in Luci’s bedroom. She is asking Braulio how she looks and he says lovely and distinguished as always. She thanks him for being the only person in the house she can really talk to. She said she had just one little drink, for the pain, to try to be a little happy. Braulio asks her if she’s ever regretted coming back from France. Francois had disappeared, says Luci, and Alex was a baby – my father pressed me to marry Connie. I had no choice.

Did you ever see Francois again? Braulio asks. Yes, says Luci. A few times – he came looking for me. He wanted to take Alex, he was kinda like nutsy. Did you love him, asks Braulio. Yes, with all my heart. But it wasn’t the same for him as for me. Same as with Constancio, I’m not important to him. Must be my destiny.

Damien and Karla are tied up back to back on two chairs in their romantic getaway and Julio has a gun to them. I was gonna call, honest! says Damien. Karla gets hysterical and Julio points the gun at her which shuts her up.

Mili is praying to convent Jesus with Lina in the background. Why do you make it so I’m happy and then everything is taken away? I can’t let Alex’s child grow up hating him like I do my vanishing dad. Lina puts her arm around her and they leave to go home.

Sor Cachete is in the kitchen with Gloria – Mili was here and didn’t say hi to me? No, says Gloria, she just came to pray to Jesus, her boyfriend is going to be a daddy. Gloria exits. That’s nice, thinks the Sor. It takes a bit before it dawns on the good Sor that Mili must be pregnant – she is shocked. Dios mio!

Rorgan gives the flowers that were for Valeria to Socorro, keeping the card. It’s to cheer you up, he says, since she’s so upset about the missing Karla. He then calls the florist and orders up a funeral wreath.

Back to our little love nest where Damien and Karla are still tied up. The baddies are gone, and Karla is jiggling her legs. I’m hungry and I’ve gotta pee soooo bad. Why did you lie to me about all this? Oh, I gotta goooo. You’re a man and it’s easy for you, but not for me. Shut up, says Damien, now I’ve gotta go too. They squabble, Karla twists her legs practically into a knot and jiggles some more.

Lina and Mili have arrived in the kitchen. Mili tells Lina if Regina asks for her, she’s sick or something – she wants to be alone to think. Uh oh, here comes Alex says Lina. Mili splits. Alex asks where Mili is, and Lina fudges around and finally says at the convent. Alex says guess what? I’m going to announce our engagement this evening to my parents. Lina is looks a bit doubtful, but congratulates him and Alex looks puzzled.

The funeral wreath has arrived at the front door. Braulio receives it - it’s for Valeria. She reads the card and takes a fit – from Bobby?! Alex says maybe it’s a mistake. She utters a few choice words about Bobby, who then arrives and asks how she likes her flowers. She smacks him. Alex laughs behind his hand and Rorgan is gleeful.

Hijinks in the kitchen – Rorgan is falling about laughing about Bobby getting smacked. Lina asks how could Bobby see anything in Valeria? Rorgan describes her in juicy terms and then catches himself. Some more goofing around when Horacio finds out Rorgan gave Socorro flowers.
Back to the bondage scene. The baddies are back with the gun – maybe they went to the bathroom. Apparently although she’s tied up again, they’ve let Karla go too and she is grateful. But not Damien – his bladder is about to pop. Let my people goooo! Or at least me! Why worry says Julio to Damien, you’re going to die anyway. Damien tries to sweet-talk him that a fine businessman like him wouldn’t gain anything that way. Revenge, says Julio. Plus he’d make a great example for other deadbeat customers. Karla flips out that she doesn’t want to die. They tell her to shut up. Well, you could call your brother-in-law. Great, says Damien and gives the number while Julio dials his cell phone.

Constancio gets the call in his office. Damien says I’m in trouble. Constancio says what else is new? Solve your problems and get your sorry a** back here to the office. Damien says no, come to Cuernavaca or they’ll kill me. Karla screeches they’ll kill us! The baddies cut off the call. Constancio looks troubled. What chaps me is that they get cell phone reception in Cuernavaca and here I am in Los Angeles and can’t get a signal. No fair. Constancio tells Andrea to order him up a car – he’s going to Cuernavaca. He looks exasperated.

Bobby is telling Valeria that he ordered red roses! With no thorns so she wouldn’t prick her fingers. Braulio is there, and Alex too, getting a quiet laugh out of it. Alex says Bobby is right, it must’ve been a mix-up at the florist, but Valeria isn’t buying it. I want you out of my sight in 5 seconds says Valeria to Bobby. Bobby evaporates and Braulio totes off the offending wreath. Alex reproaches Valeria, but she says who cares? I already have a boyfriend.

Bobby and Valeria run into their ma. Que haces aqui? they ask her kindly. She said she had to come back, she didn’t want to be without her children. Good thing says Alex, I have some big news to tell you later. He takes off. What news Luci asks Val. Val guesses maybe he’s back with Andrea. Oh horrors, says Luci. Why are you that way says Val – poor Andrea, she’s suffering due to Alex. Don’t believe it, says Luci.

Constancio must’ve had some really tight coordinates because he’s found his way right to the casa de bondage. He berates Damien briefly. Julio wonders if a brother-in-law like Damien is worth saving. Julio explains that it’s just business, he wants the debt paid. Will Connie pay? I don’t know, says Connie. Damien is shocked, begs him. Connie hauls back like he’s going to smack him, but Julio stops him. Let’s all be civilized! Connie asks for a moment alone with Damien. Oddly, the baddies agree, and go to untie Karla. What are you going to do to me, asks Damien. Constancio smiles at him with a kinda crazy look in his eye.

Bobby is at the florist and finds out about the second flower order. Rorgan has been there earlier to pay and the flower lady describes him. Bobby is furious. Rocky!

Constancio is telling Damien that he’s going to make a proposition. If Damien says yes, he’ll pay the debt. If Damien says no, Damien will die.

“Yes!” says Damien. Wait’ll you hear, says Connie. He wants all of Damien’s 20% of the shares. Damien says then I’ll have nothing. Finally he bargains Connie down to leaving him 5%. (I’m not sure I got this right – please correct if it’s wrong.) Connie laughs demonically.

Back in the kitchen Socorro is telling Lina and Horacio how worried she is about Karla – she’s never taken off like this. Lina says Don Damien is missing too – she noticed when she went to clean his room. Socorro wants to go pray to her santo and she and Horacio leave. Mili comes in and tells Lina she’s going to help serve dinner tonight because it tears her up that Alex wants to announce their engagement and she wants to be there.

Rorgan and Bobby are out front arguing about the flowers. They both tell the other that Val’s not interested in him. Meantime, the handsome new novio pulls up, goes to the front door and is greeted by Val who throws her arms around his neck and cries out “mi amor!” Bobby and Rorgan both curse him – they are brothers in rejection.

Alex runs into Mili in the hall. He sees her unhappiness and takes it for nerves. He says everything is going to be great tonight and he takes off.

Back at the convent, Sor Cachete is trying to tell the padre that Mili is pregnant but it takes forever for her to finally spit it out. He is shocked.

The family is gathering in the foyer that as usual doesn’t have enough chairs, so most of them are standing around. Even Andrea is there, and Hugo arrives, saying Alex really urged him to come. Connie and Damien walk in, looking like nothing had happened. Regina descends and somebody has to get up off the weensy couch so she can sit. Alex starts his announcement by saying it’s something that makes him very happy. Andrea looks smug. Excuse me for interrupting says Mili, but I want to be the first to congratulate you. Congratulate me? Alex says. Yes, says Mili, you’re going to be a papa. Andrea gloats. Alex is impactado.

The family party is in a shambles. Constancio tells Mili he didn’t expect that of her. She says what? Regina says to him with your past, better not talk. Luci is shocked. Hugo tells Alex he’s trash. Alex says he doesn’t know what’s going on. Regina heads up the stairs telling she wants the two of them in her room right now. Andrea is really enjoying all this. But it’s Damien who gets off the worst insult – he tells Alex “you’re worse than I am.” Wow - I didn’t know there was a level below Damien.

Val’s new novio Sergio excuses himself. Bobby and Alex are puzzled. Mili says I’m not expecting! Alex begs her to be more clear. Andrea smiles and says with relish “I’m pregnant with our child.”

Socorro and Horacio are in the kitchen when Karla comes in. Socorro throws her arms around her, but Karla doesn’t care. I was so worried! She spies the rope burns on her arms – did Damien do something bad to you? You were gone all night! Well, get used to it Ma says Karla, I’m going to shake off the uniform and I’m shaking off you and your life too. If this weren’t a comedy, I’d predict an early and agonizing death for Karla. Horacio comforts a crying Socorro.

Constancio is on the phone with the padre, Damien is listening. Connie says he’s heard – Mili confessed in front of the whole family. He says he’s very upset. After he hangs up, Damien says why are you so pale? This doesn’t really have much to do with you – why is it bugging you so much?

Valeria and Luci are in Luci’s room lamenting this turn of events. The shame! What will Valeria tell her friends? What will she tell Sergio? Luci says my son is having a child with a servant! It’s the end of the world! And it’s maybe my fault because… no, never mind. But there is one way out, says Luci – you know what a super Catholic I am, but abortion’s the only way out. Mama! Vale is shocked.

Confab in the kitchen – the staff are discussing the latest developments. Rorgan says they’ll just have to marry. Horacio observes that they’ve been broken up for a while and yet she’s pregnant? Nobody follows up on that. Socorro makes a sweet speech about how important a child is. Mili listens sadly and Lina notes she’s quiet. Mili says she just wants to go to bed and be alone.

Regina and Luci are facing off. Luci is blaming Regina – Luci wanted Mili thrown out a long time ago. Regina says she never thought Alex would go so far. Luci says don’t blame Alex, but Regina notes he a man and not a saint. Luci says she doesn’t want a bastard for a grandson, Regina says Alex is going to do the right thing by Mili, to which Luci says he’s not your real grandson. Luci doesn’t seem to notice any holes in her argument, but we all sure do.

Regina says their love is pure and she’s going to defend it. Luci says over my dead body. Now Regina finally speaks for all of us: What’s wrong with you Luci? Your own son is not legitimate! Naturally Luci has no good answer and she stomps off.

Mili is out on the nighttime lawn talking to Hugo. He says naturally the family isn’t exactly chinking glasses over her news. After some back and forth, he mentions that she’s pregnant and she says not me, it’s Andrea. And it’s just like you and everyone to think that of me! Hugo says that’s what it sounded like. Mili is furious.

Now Luci is telling Constancio that she doesn’t want a grandchild by a servant. He tells her to shut up for once. He says he’ll take care of the matter tomorrow. She says that
I wanna see.

Alex is telling Mili in the kitchen that this won’t impact the two of them. She says now we have nothing and she runs off.

Constancio and the padre are in the study. Constancio says Alex can’t marry a servant, it would wreck his political career. That’s not what’s important, says the padre. Constancio says he must do the right thing, and that thing is to send her away, back to the convent. The padre looks exasperated.

In her room, Regina is telling Mili how she supports her and how she and Alex will marry and have the baby. You too? says Mili. It’s Andrea having the baby. Regina’s eyes pop.

Alex is talking to Andrea and wondering about the timeframe. She says it adds up. Alex said he thought she’d been in charge of being careful and she notes that it’s not just the responsibility of one person. She takes responsibility for consequences – she’s an adult. Can I count on you? I’ll think about it, says Alex. Fine, let me know, says Andrea and she starts to vamp off. Oh, and by the way, I think your family misunderstood. Please tell them the baby is mine.

The padre and the MS are in conference – what to do? She says that the two are victims of circumstance and it’s time to tell them that they are brother and sister.

End of part I.


Andrea comes into Constancio’s office. How ‘bout the news last night? You’re going to be a grandfather. It turns my stomach, says Connie. Alex is an idiot.

Alex and Bobby are in Alex’s room. Alex is agitated and pacing. Mili is ignoring him and now surely Andrea will expect him to marry her. I don’t want to even think of the baby. What do I do? Bobby says he’ll support Alex whatever he decides. The phone rings – it’s the good padre. Alex agrees to come see him.

Lina and Mili are in the kitchen – Mili is really down. Lina says that sometimes it helps to talk, but Mili just wants to forget. Excellent girlfriend Lina says don’t forget you’re not alone. The phone rings in the kitchen and Mili picks up (do they have a switchboard operator somewhere?). It’s the padre and Mili agrees to come see him.

Julio is walking into a restaurant and walks up to a table – where Connie is sitting. They look seriously at one another and then crack up laughing. What a great plan! They compliment each other on being geniuses at getting the shares away from Damien. Connie tells Julio he’s a great actor. Julio whips out a briefcase and says here’s your money. Money? Says Connie. I didn’t quite catch what that was about, but I think it’s left over from their swindle and Julio gets to keep it.

Connie’s cell rings. It’s the padre, natch. Connie says okay, but does it have to be now? Apparently yes. Julio and Connie look at each other and crack up again.

Damien is in his office talking to himself. I’ve lost everything! Everything!

Vale is by a different pool with Sergio – it’s a semi-indoor pool, but she’s not in a bathing suit, she has a little short spring dress on. She apologizes for having neglected him a bit due to everything happening. Rorgan appears behind a pillar and watches. They smooch and he gets agitated. Sergio drops to one knee and Rorgan panics. Sergio proposes, and Rorgan runs out saying she’s mine! He tackles Sergio and they both fall in the pool and wrestle around while. Vale says stop stop!

Braulio has brought a tea to Regina, but she says I don’t need it, I’m not tense. She is worried about Mili. Braulio says it’s just like with his sister – a pregnant servant. And Mili is the same age as Rosario was and has the same innocence. He said he couldn’t sleep all night thinking of his sister. And you know how the family handles such problems.

Mili isn’t pregnant, it’s Andrea, says Regina. Braulio pops his eyebrows, but tries to not to look ruffled. What’s happening, he asks. I don’t want to talk about it says Regina. But excellent friend Braulio sits next to her on the couch and says sometimes it helps to talk. Regina says it’s that she’s frightened for her son – there’s someone who wants to kill him and is crazy enough to actually do it. Braulio suggests calling the police, but Regina says the guy is in a nut house, they wouldn’t take it seriously. Who is this guy asks Braulio. Regina says a person who wants to kill Connie and then she pops out the truth – it’s the real father of Alex. This time Braulio can’t hide his astonishment. He takes up Regina’s teacup and has a slurp.

Mili is walking to the convent. Alex comes up. Que haces aqui? I’ve been thinking he says – I want us to continue. No, says Mili, I can battle everybody, but not a baby. I don’t want to steal a baby’s father. I have to go now, I’m off to see the padre. Me too, says Alex. They are both surprised.

Connie is already with the padre. Padre says the best way to keep them apart is to tell the truth. Connie is reluctant but says okay. Mili and Alex come in. Alex spots Connie and says Que haces aqui? The padre says Connie wants to tell you something important.

Connie tells about when I was your age, I fell in love a servant and she had a baby. I know, says Alex. Connie continues, it’s hung over me ever since. I need to tell you the truth, now that Mili is pregnant. Mili is exasperated and after some back and forth, Alex tells Connie and the padre that it’s Andrea who’s pregnant. The padre is ecstatic. And what was the truth you wanted to tell us asks Alex. That you are… you are… you are an idiot for getting Andrea pregnant. Connie stomps off. The truth must wait for yet another day, it seems. (It now occurs to me that though he never mentioned it, Connie must’ve been thinking there were 2 Alex spawn in play.)

Braulio is still seated next to Regina. She tells him that one day years ago the police found an injured vagrant with no papers. All he had on him was the phone number of the mansion. She answered the phone that day. She knew it was Francois because she’d heard him arguing before with Luci. The hospital cured his physical wounds, but not his mind. Regine decided to be responsible and since then has sent money for his care. But what scares her is that someone had attacked him, someone who obviously wanted to kill him.

Out by the pool, Sergio and Rorgan are out of the water. Sergio would still like to take a swing at him. Vale tells Rorgan he wrecked her marriage proposal. Rorgan says you shouldn’t get engaged to somebody you hardly know. Vale orders him out of her sight, out of the house. You’re fired! Sergio wants to hug her but ick! He’s all wet.

Back on the couch with Regina and Braulio. She says there is something worse, but she doesn’t want to talk. It’s terrible to carry such a secret alone says Braulio. Let me be your confidante. Regina says ever since she heard Francois say Constancio’s name, she’s afraid that his insanity has something to do with Constancio. Braulio says that telling things helps chase away phantoms and suggests she have a nice nap and she’ll feel better. She pats his gloved hand. Sweet!

We’re in the padded cell. Francois is wide-eyed crazy still. He is thinking, maybe remembering. He sees himself in a field, bloodied, with a couple of thugs holding him. One holds a gun to him. And there is Connie, laughing. The odd thing about this scene is that Francois is pudgy and middle-aged looking, and Connie’s hair is salt and pepper under his cap. If this is real, when would it have taken place?

In the kitchen, Rorgan is telling Horacio and Socorro that he’s fired. Horacio jokes around a little bit, and then says don’t worry, she’ll forgive you. Yes, it’s love says Rorgan. Really she loves me. This guy’s a more benign form of nuts than Hugo and Francois.

Andrea comes in to Luci’s room. They are frosty polite to each other. They agree they need to have a chat. Luci congratulates Andrea on her pregnancy. Andre wants to talk about the other thing, but Luci says she doesn’t want to go there. She wants to know if the baby is Alex’s or Connie’s. Alex’s, says Andrea. How can you be so sure asks Luci. I just know says Andrea. Luci’s not convinced and says she wants to know if she’s going to be a grandmother, or if Alex is going to have a half-brother.

Luci gets tough. She’s tells Andrea that she’s not going to entrap her son with a pregnancy and she’s not going to get to marry him. She says she intends to enjoy the rest of her life. Andrea says drinking as you go along? Luci says don’t think I’m weak. You’re going to have an abortion and pretend it happened naturally. At your age, that happens a lot. Andrea protests she’s a good age to be a mother. Luci says I put up with Constancio, I know he’s always had affairs with grasping women, But when it comes to my son – watch out!

Andrea says so you’re saying you’re willing to share Connie with me. That’s right, says Luci, but you have to end your pregnancy. They glare at each other.

Vale and Sergio are on a couch. He wants to get married right away – she says why the rush, it’s fun being novios. He just can’t wait. She says like when? Today, tomorrow! Within a month. But she says Andrea and Alex are going to get married, they better wair for them. Sergio says he just can’t wait and Andrea says how sweet and says yes. A month will give her time to prepare. Rorgan watches from the doorway and sees them kiss. Mili appears, sees what’s going on and drags Rorgan away.

Rorgan is in the kitchen lamenting to Mili. She says why be interested in Vale? Find someone else. Besides, she and Sergio hardly know each other. Rorgan grabs some of Regina’s lunch from the tray and says he has to eat to fill the void. Mili sweetly tells him there will be a woman for him who loves him. I’ll find her? Asks Rorgan. No, she’s find you, says Mili. Rorgan cries. Jesus will help finding someone for you. Rorgan hugs her and says thank you.

Andrea and Luci are still at it. Andrea says no deal, but she notes that Luci is willing to pay a big price, sharing Connie. Luci says yes, and it’s just between the two of us. Andrea thinks it over and says again no. I’m going to have this baby and I’m going to marry Alex.

Andrea says that being Connie’s lover hasn’t just gained her money, it’s gained her information. I can destroy your family and if you think this is hell now, it’s nothing compared to what it will be if you try to thwart me. She flounces out. Luci grabs the handy hooch from the bedside table and has a slug. She wonders if Andrea knows that Alex isn’t Connie’s real son.

Alex comes to Regina’s room for counsel. He is crying and tells her how he was looking forward to telling the family about him and Mili – how they would protest, the look on his father’s face. How he would stand up to them, how he is a fellow who knows what he wants. Regina says everything has changed – you’re going to have a baby. Alex says he doesn’t love Andrea and he wants to be with Mili. They hug and he weeps some more. What am I going to do?

Regina says once you hold that baby in your arms, you’ll feel totally different, believe me. I know a man who was so happy he was going to be a daddy and then he never got to see his child. My father asks Alex. Yes, says Regina.

I know I’d love a baby, says Alex, but the time’s not right. But it is the time, says Regina, babies come when they come and you have to love them and take care of them. Alex says it isn’t that I wouldn’t love a baby, it’s just that.. That you don’t love the mother finishes Regina. Yes says Alex, it’s so different with Mili. He breaks down lays his head in her lap and sobs. She pets his hair and kisses his head.

Mili comes in to see Hugo in his room. He says so you’ve forgiven me? Of course, she says. She says she feels sad, odd. She says it’s funny, she was just comforting Rorgan, and here she is in the same straits. I came because you’re my friend, you can tell me everything will be all right. Except that nothing will ever be all right again – I feel like I’m dying inside. She sobs and he puts his arms around her and comforts her.

Andrea is in Connie’s office telling him about Luci’s offer. Connie agrees with Luci, better get rid of the kid. Andrea says how do you know it’s not yours? I had a vasectomy after Valeria; I’m shooting with blanks, says Alex. The main thing is that nothing change between us even though you’re pregnant. I’m not pregnant smiles Andrea.

Regina is asking Luci about Francois. Luci doesn’t want to talk about it. Regina rubs in about their having been lovers before she married Connie. Did she get together with him after her marriage? Yes, says Luci, but not as lovers. He was very upset about Alex seeing Connie as his father and taking his name. He wanted his son.

I didn’t see him for a long time after that, says Luci. When Alex was about 13, Francois called and said he was here and wanted to tell Alex the truth. I told Connie about it. And what happened? Asks Regina. Well, it was strange, he never showed up. Regina looks shaken. What is it asks Luci. Nothing, lies Regina.

Connie is smilingly telling Andrea she’s a bad girl for her tricks. He says what if I tell? She says you wouldn’t or you’d be done with me forever. He wants to know what Alex’s got that he hasn’t. She says you’re married. He says what if I were a widower? She says I’m not gonna wait for that. She says she wants a better job and a good position in society with a rich husband with a good name and Alex is just the guy for that. And we can keep being lovers. Oh, you’re perverse says Connie, and I love it. They start necking.

Regina and Luci again. Why are you asking all these questions Luci wonders. Oh, just curious. Well, I guess I should have mentioned all this before, but I didn’t want to stir up troubles. Regina asks if Luci has ever thought about what would happen if Alex found out what she’s been hiding all these years. Luci says she forbids the mention of Francois’s name and that the secret will be forever buried. Are you so sure of that asks Regina.

Connie is in the office telling Damien that he’s going to go start arranging for the marriage of Andrea and his son. Your son and your lover? asks Damion. It’s for appearances says Connie, for my political career. You’re trash, says Damien. Hey, nice words, I just saved your life, says Connie. Next time I’m gonna let them shoot you. And if you incur any more gambling debts I’m not paying, you’re going to pay them with your shares. He pinches Damien’s cheeks like you would a baby’s.

Horacio is making a prison visit. It’s Roxana he’s visiting! Seems she had some illicit dealings. He said she should have called Connie to help her out. She says no I have lawyers taking care of things - I want to tell you that I lied. I want to tell you about our daughter. Horacio is confused. She says yes, I never loved her, maybe because she was from you and I hated you so much. Our daughter works in your house as a servant. Horacio is impactado, says he always felt some special closeness with the girl. Go and tell her says Roxanna, who gets up and leaves. Horacio weeps and says my daughter!

Connie is talking to Andrea and a pony-tailed Alex at home. He says he will have everything arranged in 2 weeks. Alex says leave that to me. Connie says Alex has to take care of his responsibilities. Andrea says let me talk to Alex alone. Connie says okay and leaves.

Alex fidgets. Andrea strokes his hair and says how happy they all will be. Alex jumps up and yells no! Mili is descending the stairs unnoticed. I’m never going to marry you! I will give the child my name, we can be friends, but I’m going to marry the woman I love, Milagros! Mili is impactada. Okay, says Andrea, in that case I’ll get rid of the kid now. Mili rushes down the stairs. No! Don’t do that. Freeze frame.

Avances: Braulio finds his sister’s photo in Mili’s book. Mili gimme my mother’s photo!

Labels: guapos

From last night: Moni tells CL she wants to work with Gustavo on publicity for Farell and CL blows his gasket. Juan pines underneath Pau's window; he wants to see her face one last time. Kike hunts down Topete at the University where, oddly Topete and his wife are writing together at a table. I thought they were furious at each other? Amarga smiles triumphantly at Kike's appearance. Juan experiences a battle between heart and reason. Pau looks out the window, sees him, and runs outside in her shortie robe and closed-toed slippers.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Juan turns away before Pau makes it outside. She sees him, asks herself "What am I doing" and stops herself from calling to him. As she runs back into the building a guy in a car, conspicuously hiding behind a newspaper, gawks at her and takes notes.

Kike and Topete are alone at a table. Kike wants to know Topete's business with Yadi. Topete is a practiced scoundrel and easily messes with Kike's head. First he says that he and Yadi enjoy intellectual exchange, that's all. (Collective guffaw from the viewers!!) Then he asks if Kike has an inferiority complex. Does Kike mistrust his wife? Does Kike think he (Topete) would jeapordize his career? Not only does Kike insult him but he insults all professors and all women who dream of bettering themselves. Kike is confounded.

CL continues to berate Moni for confusing business with pleasure. He smokes heavily which indicates he is royally ticked off. Long story short, he demands one good reason why Gustavo should work for Farell. Moni answers there are millions of reasons, the shareholders want Gustavo to take charge of publicity whether or not CL agrees. Does he want to battle the shareholders? No? She flounces out in victory.

Juan breaks the news to Sra. Pompous that his little doves have flown the coop and only one remains. She tells him one student isn't enough for her class so he tries to talk her into selling him a manual that he can take back to Achi to train the contestants.

It looks like Pau noticed the spy outside. She calls CL and demands to know about the vigilante/guard that he hired. CL squirms and answers that he hired the guy for protection. This sets Pau off and she rips CL a new one. She concludes her diatribe by recommending that next time he should hire a peeper who is less of an imbecile than the one sitting outside.

CL summons Pastor so he can blame him for hiring a substandard private eye. He insults Pastor, demands he hire a new spy with two neurons in his head, and then insults him again before ordering him to leave.

Juan and the Pomposas agree on a price for their Handbook of Charm. Smiles all around.

Pau calls Mari at work to tell her about seeing Juan and discovering the "guard" that CL set outside the building. She whines about her torment over Juan. Mari suggests she get job or do something to occupy her mind. Then Pau does something so totally out of character that I had to rewind; she asks how Mari is. When Mari reveals that Fer proposed Pau says she'll show up early for lunch so she can hear all the details.

Yadi storms onto the university to pick a fight with Amarga. Topete shows up just as Yadi screams that the Profa is an old gossip. She really lets the Profa have it and tells Topete (and everyone else in the lunchroom) that she is only responding, face to face, because the Profa called her home! Topete is impactado.

Kike tells Fer that he got nowhere at the university because Topete discounted his accusations. Fer tells Kike he can't go around accusing someone unless he has the hairs of the donkey in his hand (to prove the donkey is gray). Kike expresses concern about Yadi finding out.

Yadi complains to Topete about his nasty old wife. Topete pretends to look pained and takes the opportunity to tell Yadi that her husband came to see him earlier. It wasn't so bad that Kike insulted Topete's academic prestige, but that he questioned Yadi's dignity! Guess who is bug-eyed, butterfly-headed impactada?

Over at Televisa Juan and Lorena meet with a big producer named Chavita. Chavita checks his schedule and says he's not available during the contest. Lorena wheedles and finally Chavita says he can release Raquel Bigorra and Andrea Garcia to be judges. Lorena is muy, pero muy impactada and fawns all over Chavita who enjoyes the attention.

The beautiful half-sisters, both wearing black and white, meet for lunch to talk about boys. Pau observes that Mari should be just a little excited about Fer's proposal. Mari says Fer is great, she loves him, they have fun, he's tender, but... Pau finishes "but you still have feelings for Juan." Mari admits she's loved Juan since she met him. Pau advises Mari not to get married unless she's certain. (Look at the donkey talking about ears!!) Mari concludes that she just doesn't know but she thinks Fer loves her very much.

Speaking of which, Fer and Kike shop for an engagement ring.

Nidia sleeps (very restlessly) next to the baby which is so still she looks like a doll. Is she real? Nidia gyrates and the baby's eyes widen so I guess she's real. Nidia wakes in a panic recalling she did the horizontal bop with Fer. "No puede ser!"

Yadi arrives at the market to yell at Kike and to call him a lowly worm for seeking out Topete. She's on a rampage and accuses him of not trusting her and trying to spoil her dream. She becomes nasty and mean. She tells Kike that by going to the university he proved he is just a loader of boxes, a mere trucker, unintelligent and uneducated, she's fed up with him! She stomps off and leaves him hurt and tearful. Man I really felt sorry for poor Kike after that. Who was it said dump the bimbo?

Gaitan tells CL that he wants the salary increase he was promised. CL says he's sick of hearing about the famous raise and he doesn't remember promising it, furthermore Gaitan doesn't deserve it. Pastor nervously arranges his toupee while CL tells him to go ahead and resign, the world is full of mediocre executives. They glare at each other with loathing.

Lorena tells Juan she wants to celebrate their success by going to bed. He thought bubbles that this little goat doesn't beat around the bush. He's tempted but he suggests she take a cold shower and wait for him at the hotel. He manages to get her into a taxi. He thinks that ever since Juanito mentioned it Marely has been bouncing around his head. He decides he can't go back to Achi without knowing if she still loves him.

Juan visits Kike at the market where Kike tells him that Yadi really chewed him out. Kike tells his tale of confronting Topete and Juan tells Kike that all the girls left except Lorena who has the hots for him. He doesn't want to hook up with her because he doesn't see her as a companion or a mother to his kid. He has someone else in mind, can Kike guess who? It's someone that Kike suggested. "Doña Nidia?" asks Kike? Juan tells him to stop clowning; does he know if Mari still loves him? Kike is aghast and tells Juan that Fer is serious about Mari and plans to propose marriage that very evening.

CL comes home late and Pau pretends to be asleep.

Juan thought bubbles of all the bum luck, just when he had a hope for Mari, but of course Fer would be in love with her. If his little rose garden has her little bit of heaven then he will just have to accept it and wish them luck.

Downstairs at Casa Cachón Kike warns Fer that if he marries a Cachón he will carry a cross and wear a crown of thorns all his life.

Upstairs Mari sits between a bickering Nidia and Yadi. Nidia declares she won't speak until Yadi apologizes. Yadi accuses Nidia of taking the baby out on the town. Nidia sucks her Sugar Daddy and accuses Yadi of being arrogant. The Bickersons are interrupted by Kike who announces that Fer wishes to see not Mari but Nidia. The ladies all get big eyes.

Lorena slinks into Juan's room and suggests they go out to eat. When he declines she gushes that she doesn't want to go out either, much better to eat in, verdad? Juan thinks that perhaps Lorena might be the cure for his ailments.

Down in the Cachón salon Nidia suggests a round of tequila. Mari scolds that she thought Nidia was on the wagon. Fer begins his speech, he and Mari are novios...suddenly Delirio arrives, interrupting and blathering. Nidia mutters, "The fly in the soup." Delirio insists on inserting himself between the lovebirds. Undaunted, Fer continues his narrative, or tries to. Kike serves the tequila which sets Nidia and Delirio off again. Yadi tells them all to shut up and she insists that Fer speak quickly or shut up forever.

Fer, in rapid-speak, gets to the point, he wants to marry Mari and will Nidia approve yes or no?

Juan succumbs to Lorena's pantherine charms. Meanwhile Paula tosses and turns in bed; she suddenly sits up and calls Juan's name.

Chelo starts to go home but remembers to tell CL about something odd. Earlier his wife jumped up from the couch, looked out the window, ran outside, then came back a short while later. Chelo the suck-up, obviously angling to keep her job, tells CL he has a lot of patience but he has to put the baby first. (This sounds a bit ominous to me.) CL smokes intently.

Nidia tries to respond to Fer but memories of their prior boinkage interrupt her thoughts. She shakes them off and manages to give her consent. She waxes eloquent on Mari's virtues then demands a toast, another round!

Juan saves himself from Lorena by reminding himself that since she is a contestant and he is the contest organizer it's against the rules for them to fraternize. He unravels her from his body and plonks her outside his door. He's safe but is reduced to crawling about on his knees, no doubt due to ESB.

Fer presents the ring to a somewhat underexcited Mari. She begins to explain her feelings but they are interrupted by a slurring Nidia. Mari is angry, drunk again? Nidia wants a couple of words with Fer. They have something serious, but very serious, to discuss in the office.

Anga strolls into his darkened livingroom and finds Pastor who is unable to sleep. Anga asks if the honeymoon with CL is over so quickly. He asks if the birds that Pastor painted have returned to enslave him. (?) Pastor tells Anga about asking for his raise and CL's response. Anga says he told him so and Pastor concurs, he made a bad decision. He tries to make a pitiful puppy face but Anga tells him not to to bother, as he said before don't come crying to him after choosing Farell.

Fer looks nervous while Nidia gets serious. She asks they had something going on, didn't they? They shared kisses and loving, right? She reels at his expression. So it's true! Ay sainted virgin, everything in her head was true? Fer nods his head sadly. Nidia mentions that Fer also boinked Yadi. He nods again but adds that it was long before Yadi was married, and he and Nidia were an accident. Nida blows her top and calls him names, swine, womanizer. If he thinks he's going to marry into their family he's very wrong because she won't allow him to disgrace her daughter's life!

Molo lightens up the conclusion by dancing the Cachibombo through the credits.

Tomorrow: Juan dreams of Pau, Pau dreams of Juan, and Mari thinks she might have a chance.

Andarse por las ramas = to beat around the bush
Arguendero/a = gossip
Fisgón = Busybody, peeper, nosy parker
Gusarapo = lowly worm, creepy crawly
Mira el burro hablando de orejas = That's the pot calling the kettle black (Lit. look at the donkey talking about ears)
Salir de parranda = To go out on the town
Si te digo que la burra es pinta, es por que tengo los pelos en la mano. = If I am saying that the donkey is gray, it's because I have it's fur in my hand.

Labels: Juan

What gives? They tell us Pasion is in the final phase and then they yank it until Friday for 2 hours of Guaypos?

Labels: Pasion