Caray, Caray!

We open to revisit Pastor checking his watch and wondering how many hours an operation can take. It’s really inconsiderate of them not to come out and let one know what’s happening, too. Juan, of course, tries to help him calm—these things take time. He tries to get Pastor to sit, and the doctor comes in with sad news that Doña Pastora has not made it through the operation. Pastor is inconsolable. Juan can only thought bubble that words are insufficient for the loss of a mother, and only time will help.

We revisit CL arriving home to find Chelo alone; when he asks about Monica, he’s informed that he should know better than anyone where she is. He grinds his teeth.

Juan stands behind Pastor, hands on Pastor’s shoulders, and lets Pastor ask the inevitable “why?” questions. She had always wanted to die in her bed, surrounded by folks who loved her. Juan assures him that Pastor was with her at the end, and that’s what matters. Pastor continues to mourn: his mother was everything to him, and without her he has no one. If she is not here, he has no reason to exist. Juan won’t hear of it. He assures Pastor he’s important to society, a good man, and an exemplary son. Pastor denies this. He says he’s a fraud, a caricature of a man. He walks away and Juan follows, sternly scolding him not to say such things. Juan tells Pastor there is nothing more important in this life than to have been loved as much as Pastor was loved his mother. Juan tells Pastor his mother was at peace. And he wants to assure Pastor that she was completely happy, totally fulfilled. Pastor is doubtful, but Juan exhorts him; he’s not just saying that so Pastor will feel better. It’s the pure truth, and from Juan’s heart. Pastor just cries and Juan guides him to a chair. Juan gets onto his knee to continue comforting Pastor [Ed. Note: What a Guy!] Juan tells Pastor his mother was lucky to have Pastor right until the end; she was loved. Many people don’t have that and it makes closing the chapters of our lives much more difficult. He reminds Pastor that she’s done with suffering. She’s got eternal peace, and is with God. Juan tells him to cry, because it signifies that Pastor is able to feel the most beautiful of emotions that God gave us to make us human. And above all, he had his mother’s love. Pastor whimpers and weeps as Juan smiles fondly and leans to give him a half hug. Juan tells him “cry, Don Pastor, cry,” and Pastor does. [Ed. Note: Wow. ¡Qué emoción! What a spectacular job these two did.]

CL stands in the empty and darkened bedroom of the apartment. He looks pensive as he leans against the corner of a cupboard. Chelo comes into the room behind him, in her regular clothes, and asks if she can offer him anything. He shakes his head without looking around and takes a drag on his cigarette. She’ll just go, then. The camera closes in on CL’s face. He’s crying and his eyes look like he spent the last week awake. At least for the next 30 seconds or so, he might be sorry that Monica is gone.

Paula is sitting on the end of her bed, talking on the phone and taking her 4-inch heels off. She tells Ana that she got her car today. It’s way cool! (padrísimo). Paula’s so pleased to share this moment with her mother. She’s had a difficult day, appalling (espantoso), with lots of work.

We see VERY red stockings and VERY high black heels with a rather short black skirt – makes me think of Nebraska on any Cornhusker home game Saturday – swaying up a couple of steps. CL’s disembodied voice asks Laura if she knows where “she” is. The camera pans to a lovely face of a young woman in a white blouse and black low vest. Laura says she has no idea. He tells her to understand; he’s desperate. Laura says she hasn’t seen Monica in ages (siglos, centuries). She has no idea where Moni could be. (I can’t understand why she would say that, since she and Moni clearly both got the same memo about wearing red, black and white today). Laura asks if they fought very hard. CL confirms it was hard enough. He doesn’t want to talk about it. He asks for a favor. If Laura finds out where Moni is, let him know, or tell Moni to call him. Laura tells him not to worry and hangs up. Moni wants to know what he said. She tells Moni “he’s really down.” (Está hecho polvo – he’s made into dust). That’s the point, that he’ll be in pieces. [Ed. Note: Fat chance. Moni, you’re barking up the wrong tree.] Laura thinks she should throw him out in the street. Moni thanks her for the advice, but she prefers to handle it her way. Laura wants to know why Moni is disappearing to give him an open road to keep it up with that woman. Moni thinks she has the upper hand (ventaja, advantage) and she’s going to make their life h***. Moni tells Laura not to worry that they’ll escape their punishment; she swears they’ll be punished and they’ll both be sorry. [Ed. Note: What the heck could she have up that red sleeve?] She squares her jaw and demonstrates her best stink eye for Laura.

Paula has changed into lovely sage green velour sweats. She answers the phone; it’s Nidia. Does Nidia want to talk with Ana? No, Nidia has a little advice for Paula, since she promised Ana she’d look after Paula while Ana was gone. Paula is fondly irritated. The advice is about Paula’s night visitor. Paula is confused. Duh. Nidia advises her that a decent little girl doesn’t let her boyfriend stay over and take advantage of Mami’s absence. So, don’t do it again. Paula sighs and rubs her forehead. Paula sarcastically thanks her, asks her permission to retire, then hangs up, and sighs disgustedly. Nidia, who hasn’t had the last word for the first time since mid-June, shakes her head and laments the girls of today. They just don’t listen to advice.

At the night school, students pass into the room, but Kike is already in his seat working hard on the lesson. The Profa is coming so the students rush to their seats. She wants to know why Kike is alone again. He stutters an excuse for Juan—he has a little family problem, but she’s not buying it. What a shame! Probably his grandmother died. Kike basically tells her that’s close enough. She doesn’t ever want to see Juan around there again, and she threatens again to expel Juan. Kike is again left holding the bag for Juan.

Paula is pouring coffee and talking to Juan about Pastor. “Poor man, he must be devastated.” Juan agrees that Pastor is. He’s still at the hospital with Pastor, but has found a pay phone. [Ed. Note: Do they still have pay phones on this continent? Not according to the Spanish ads I hear for Cingular/Sprint/Verizon, etc.]. Paula tells Juan to let Pastor know if he needs anything, she’s there for him. He calls her endearing names and asks her to inform the office folk. Pastor is so alone, Juan reckons he needs to stay and help him, especially tomorrow at the wake (velorio). She’ll take care of it, she tells him. Juan also wants to know they won’t be able to see each other tonight since he really needs to stay with Pastor. She tells him to calm down, it’s fine and she understands perfectly. It’s a noble gesture. He thanks her sweetly [Ed. Note: what an ANGEL!] and asks how she is. Paula tells him she’s okay, but going to bed early because she’s wiped out (molida). He scolds her to take care of herself (okay, not a literal translation by any stretch, but that’s the idea) “you hear me, Licenciada?.” She chuckles a little. Yes, Juan. He tells her they’ll see each other tomorrow, sends her an air kiss on the phone, and tells her to sleep thinking of him. She tells him thanks, until tomorrow, and hangs up.

Nidia, the muchachas and Delirio are all in their jammies in Nidia’s room, sitting on the bed, watching a novela on the tele that’s on the dresser. This is quintessential family togetherness. Delirio is not nearly as wrapped up in it as the girls all are. They’re oohing and aahing over the novela, all huddled together with Yadi in the middle, the muchachas sucking their thumbs. He grumbles at them as he’s being eased off the edge of the bed by Nidia’s rump. Delirio grumbles that he’s like Horace. [¿¿Qué??] Nidia totally ignores him and wonders aloud where Juan is, and why he hasn’t arrived home—is he sleeping away from home again? [Like she thinks one more big man will fit on that bed!] Delirio grumbles about Juan, “this señor thinks this is a hotel, and there are no schedules to follow. Marely snaps up and looks at Yadi and Nidia. “What an idiot I am! I forgot to tell you the mother of Pastor got very sick and he helped take her to the hospital! They were going to operate!” Nidia and Yadi express their sorrow, but Delirio thinks there’s a bright side—Juan will be pleased to be at the side of his “detail,” hugging him, giving him his shoulder, etc. [Ed. Note: Don’t you just want to slap the man sometimes?] Nidia scolds him. What a beast, an animal! (We hear a donkey braying in the background). Marely points out she’d like to have the sensitivity of Juan. Delirio finally falls off the edge of the bed. It’s about time. Nidia sarcastically asks his pardon. The girls giggle. Nidia tells Delirio that before she forgets, tomorrow first thing he’s going to get his okole up, get ready, get breakfast, and get into see CL to talk about his work . Delirio bounds up and yells. He’s NEVER going back to that office! Not even if CL was kneeling in front of him! Nidia yells back that he’s going to do that very thing, or there’ll be consequences. Delirio tries to yell again and Yadi interrupts him. He’s interfering with their novela! He throws up his hands in disgust, then starts to leave, but throws his hands up in front of the screen before he goes in defiance. The girls all put their thumbs back in their mouths and settle back down for a night of novelas. Sort of like us.

As Pastor and Juan leave St. Rita’s Hospital, Pastor thanks Juan. He’s taken up all of Juan’s day. Juan, his arm around Pastor’s shoulders, tells him he couldn’t have left him alone in this time. They should go eat something. Pastor says he’s not hungry. Well, then, Juan will take him home so he can make the calls to his family members. What family? Pastor tells Juan he has no one. Juan tries again….a lost uncle, a cousin? Pastor sighs; there is no one. It’s a cruel irony—all his life he dreamed of having brothers and sisters, cousins, someone to play with, to share Christmas with, or birthdays. But there never was anyone. Just her and me. Pastor continues; when he was in grammar school (colegio—a private parochial school, probably) no one wanted to play with him. He knew he was somehow different. He was sensitive, loved fine things and beauty, and not football. Everyone made fun of him. He suffered so much. It became an obsession to have a brother. What a cruel irony it was that at the end of her life, she had such a big surprise for him. Juan is curious what sort of surprise that was. “That supposedly I have a brother. What do you think of that?” Juan is impactado, but remarks that seems like it would be good news. Pastor supposes so. Anyway, he would be the only person Pastor needs to inform of his mother’s death. He needs to follow through with his mother’s last wish (voluntad – will). But, it’s more than a duty. He’s not the same child he was. After all this, they’re not going to toss a football around. Pastor cries again, and Juan hugs him.

Paula has called Marely. Her telephone is Grand Central tonight. She lets Marely know about Pastor’s mother’s death. Marely will help inform others. Paula thanks her and hangs up. The doorbell rings. So much for a quiet night and hitting the hay early. Guess who’s coming to ….. well, not dinner? CL, por supuesto. If she doesn’t open in less than a second he’s going to FREEZE! [Ed. Note; at least it will keep the champagne cool.] Paula wants to know qué the heck he’s doing here, and scolds him, reminding him she’s not going to be pressured, and that’s what he’s doing. He tells her she’s right, but he couldn’t keep away. [Ed. Note: apparently, his deep, prolonged grieving over Monica’s departure is over.] She tells him to begin to control his urges (ganas). She tells him that Pastor’s mother has passed away. CL actually looks a bit stricken by this news for a moment.

The girls have toddled off to bed and Nidia is getting her side ready. Delirio comes in and sarcastically asks if he can enter his bedroom, or are the ladies of the house inclined to watch more television? She remarks that she hears buzzing in her ears….and he can just glue himself to the roof (????). He tells her he’s going to buzz at her and he’s not returning to Farell. He gives her all the reasons why he’s not going, and lose his dignity. Yadi bursts into the room in her jammies and ignores Delirio, begging her Mami to come downstairs RIGHT NOW! Nidia runs after her, leaving Delirio fuming.

CL is finally serious and focused on something other than his ….. uh….. needs. Does Paula know what funeral home Doña Pastora will be taken to? No. Juan will be letting me know. CL is sorry for Pastor; he understands that Pastor has no other family and is very attached to his mother. Paula remarks that it’s terrible to be that age and be alone in the world. CL agrees. And of course, the conversation makes a 180 back to his…..uh….needs. He starts in on her again with his polished line. Life is offering them….hablablablabla….. She tells him there are times it’s better to be alone than accompanied badly. He agrees [Ed. Note: his favorite strategy, agree with everything and change the subject back to his goal]. He talks about when one finds one’s soul mate (alma gemela, soul twin)…..and strokes her cheek. And the line goes on, and on, and on. [Ed. Note: oh, my, what nicely buffed nails he has.] Paula pulls his hand away, but he’s not deterred. He murmurs more pressure-laden junk about the same soul and practices the kisses he learned from watching Duelo de Pasiones. She responds into commercial…..

Apparently during the commercial she came to and now she’s pushing him away. He protests he just wants to show her how much he loves her. She’s not buying it. She wants him to respect the deal they have. He agrees, okay. But, he just KNOWS she felt the same about that kiss as he did. She reminds him no pressure! Just go! Okay, okay, he adds a few more thoughts calculated to pressure about how he feels and backs toward the door. Ooops, one more thing….he rushes her again and she tells him NO. She points at the door. He starts toward it, but she calls him back. He looks hopeful, but she just wants to hand him the bottle he forgot. He smiles and takes it. [Ed. Note: I think it’s Judy B who keeps reminding us what a great actor Alexis Ayala is. He’s doing this to a “t..”] Finally, he’s gone. But, not forgotten. Paula smiles fondly. [Ed. Note: Idiot.]

Marely offers a drink to Pastor, who is sitting in the living room at Casa Cachón. Nidia is talking aside to Juan about poor Pastor. We see Juan’s lovely portrait in the background. [Ed. Note: Will Pastor take his painting of Juan home now that Pastora won’t be complaining about it? I’m just saying.] Nidia holds Juan’s arm. Pastor is suffering a lot. Juan points out he has no one, and is alone now. He shouldn’t be sleeping alone in his home tonight. He’d better stay here. Nidia is impactada. Where? Maybe Juan should go to Pastor’s home and stay with him there? No, given Pastor’s current mood, not a good idea. Juan volunteers his own room; Juan will be comfortable on the sofa. Nidia tells him what a heart he has. Not many men have his sensitivity. She is so happy, and proud of him. She hugs him and calls him son; he hugs her back. Could it be that Nidia is changing to feel motherly feelings toward Juan? Could be, since she has Fern as a back-up young galán. Marely, on her knees, comforts Pastor as he drinks a cup of tea. Juan thought bubbles that the Grim Reaper (huesuda) arrives when we least expect him. When another dies, a piece of one dies with him (her). We see a lovely sunrise, as Juan continues to thought bubble that the following morning, life continued. We see him at the hospital signing the death certificate with the physician, Pastor standing some feet away and not involved. “The poor man had no head” to do the formalities, sign the certificates that would make his mother’s death official. He continues to thought bubble that they selected a flower spray that would let her arrive to heaven well decorated. He had told the Child of Atocha that she had her unique personality, but wasn’t bad people. He asked God to give her a special place in heaven. Then they went to look for Pastor’s brother. Juan asks Pastor what? We’re looking for your brother here? He holds up the paper that Pastora had given her son with is half-brother’s address. Yes, that’s the place. Juan protests that this is in the middle of the public markets (abastos). Pastor is mildly impactado, and Juan is muy impactado. “What’s your brother’s name?” Juan asks. (Are you ready, gentle readers?) “Angarita,” Pastor responds, “Angarita Calvo.” “No way!” Juan tells him. Pastor says that’s what his mother put on the paper. Juan tells him that’s incredible, and we all agree with him. (Wasn’t it just two weeks ago that Don Angarita chased a herd of thugs away who were harassing Juan and Kike?) Juan declares that the world is a handkerchief (small); he knows Pastor’s brother. Pastor is really impactado. “For real?”

The market is humming; it reminds one of the Market in the French Quarter in New Orleans. Juan waits while Pastor confronts his destiny: he has the brother he always dreamed of. Or not. Angarita says “son of the guayaba,” which might mean a guava or the lie, the fib. Anyone know? Angarita can’t believe it. Pastor responds that he’s just as flustered as Angarita. Juan hovers in the background like a mother hen. Angarita says he must be the very Pastor Gaitán. Pastor reaches out his hand to shake Angarita’s, telling him “pleased to meet you, brother,” but his tone of voice and body language make us wonder…..caray, this is awkward. Angarita pumps his arm until Pastor’s teeth rattle. Angarita returns the greeting. Pastor grabs his arm away and rubs it; they eye each other warily and possibly with a bit of disgust. Juan eyes them both and thought bubbles that it must be a heavy thing to find oneself with an instant brother, and they have a mother in common. All he could think at the moment, Juan continues, is about the crash of two such different worlds that’s coming.

CL is giving instructions to Ivonne regarding how to handle Pastor’s mother’s funeral. Ivonne has found that the funeral home is “The Last Breath,” and the mass will be at noon, at the church near funeral home. CL wants to know who is going from the office. Ivonne says it’s a group of those closest to Pastor, if that’s not a problem. CL assures her it’s fine. For a change, they’re not fussing and they’re both subdued. He tells her to arrange everything that’s needed and to send a corona of flowers (a wreath) from the company. Monica bursts in and greets them; only Ivonne initially responds. CL tells Ivonne she can leave them alone. He accosts Monica, wanting to know where the h*** she stayed the night before. She smiles slightly with a “what’s it to you?” sort of look. They face off with glares.

Ivonne is back at her desk, with Paula standing in front of her. Paula is clearly dressed for a funeral. Her black dress is at least four inches longer than usual and doesn’t outline her okole. What a shame, Ivonne tells her with a signature smirk, but CL is busy at the moment. His wife arrived and is with him. Paula asks if she doesn’t mean his ex? Ivonne stands and asserts that Monica is still his legal wife, clearly taking much joy in making this point. She wonders if Paula maybe isn’t aware how CL handles these formalities (jerarquías, hierarchies, formalities). Paula warns her to watch herself. Ivonne continues that the wife is above the lovers. Paula sets her jaw. Ivonne continues that the wives who have class, like Sra. Monica, have preference over the **bleep** like you, you understand. Paula dives over the desk at her and a girl fight is in full swing. All the lobby folk run to the desk and Marely pulls Paula away from choking Ivonne over the desk. They’re all yelling. Ivonne calls Paula stupid and tells her she’s going to disintegrate Paula—“cut-rate slut!” (Golfa barata). CL and Moni come rushing out the door of his office, CL yelling “what the h*** is going on here?” Ivonne is angry impactada. Paula glares and gulps.

Juan chats with one of the market workers. We see Angarita coming down some stairs with a couple of coffees, telling Pastor “she was a good woman, with her temper, but a good woman.” [Ed. Note: he obviously knew the Pastora we all knew and loved.] Pastor tells him it’s a terrible loss. Angarita gives him a coffee, and tells Pastor at least he was able to enjoy her more than Angarita could. He just had her for short times. Pastor asks him for no reproaches, please. Pastor continues that he can hardly make sense of what was hidden for so many years. Angarita points out that everyone has something naughty (travesura) recorded in the book. And, all have attempted to cover some stain (corrector a la mancha). Pastor says that she wasn’t the kind of person to do those kinds of bad things, and even less the kind of deeds that she would hide in the trunk of secrets (baúl). Angarita tells him he’d best not judge, because he has no right. Pastor agrees. On the contrary, it makes her more human. Pastor imagines that it must not have been easy for her to have to give up Angarita, and perhaps that’s why she overprotected Pastor so much. Now he understands better why at times she was as she was. Pastor becomes sadder as the relates this to Angarita. Angarita jumps in, uncomfortable and tells him not to get to bawling right here. Have patience, like your mother, who was like iron. You have to be strong. Accept things as they are. Pastor agrees he is right. He tells Angarita that he imagines if she were here, she’d be whacking him for crying. He wipes his nose. He tells Angarita that when his mother told him he had a brother, he didn’t imagine someone like Angarita. Angarita agrees that he also didn’t imagine one like Pastor. He looks Pastor over and pauses before he finishes that thought. Pastor stares at Angarita. [Ed. Note: now we understand why a couple of weeks ago Kike saw Pastora get into a cab at the loading dock near Angarita’s warehouse, when she disappeared from the church while Pastor waited for her.]

Paula is being scolded, after a fashion, by Moni in Paula’s office while Marely looks on in the office. Moni is surprised by Paula’s attitude, since she says Paula has been a woman well self-controlled. Paula defends herself. She didn’t start it; she and Ivonne have not had a good relationship, but she never thought it would come to an assault like this. Monica tells her according to what she’s been told, Paula provoked it. Paula rubs her head and tries to explain. Well, Paula replies, I reacted to her insults instinctively, nothing more. Moni isn’t buying it. What could a secretary have said that an highly placed executive would have been caught like this in front of all the employees. Paula responds they were nonsense that don’t bear repeating. She begs Moni’s pardon and it won’t happen again. Moni gives her a stink eye and Marely looks distinctly worried.

Juan is selling fruit to some shoppers while Pastor tells Angarita that it was he who said they must accept things as they are, and they are brothers and should have something in common [Ed. Note: hard to imagine just what, but I guess we’ll see.] Angarita sarcastically points out it must be something well hidden. He wants to know about Pastor’s relationship with Juan. Is he family, too? Nope, Pastor tells his brother, just a friend. A very good friend. Angarita thinks he has this figured out. He changes the subject. Is Pastor going to have a wake, to stand watch over their mother? Juan looks over at them and thought bubbles that it wouldn’t take a genius to figure out that Angarita ….and doggone but there was no way I understood any of the rest of it. Jump in any time, anyone. Angarita and Pastor continue to chat and Juan continues to hawk Angarita’s produce.

CL is chewing Ivonne out. What the heck was she doing? Putting that woman in her place, Ivonne retorts. She calls Paula a fox, and it isn’t a compliment. CL tells her not to refer to Paula in those terms. Ivonne spouts back at him and tells him that Paula’s putting on airs and has no rights while he has a legitimate wife. [Ed. Note: how amazing that SHE defends his wife.] CL yells at her that Paula has rights. Ivonne retorts that he should yell a little louder so his wife hears. He tells her that Moni already knows about his thing with Paula, and Ivonne can’t blackmail him with it. Well, Ivonne says smugly, anyway Monica is an owner of this company. “And?” “And it’s not in your best interest to make her into an enemy.”

Alirio bursts into CL’s office with warm greetings. He asks if he can enter, and answers his own question, of course he can. CL rolls his eyes and closes them, sighing. He and Ivonne glare at each other.

Nidia is fitting her wedding dress onto Yadi, who has her hands in long white gloves, clasped above her head. She’s grousing about Juan bringing that Pastor to live with them. Nidia clucks at her. It’s not for so long, just while he’s going through this sad time. Nidia thinks Juan will be calling her any time with information about the funeral. Yadi says she hates funerals. Nidia clucks at her again. Dramatic flamenco music plays as Nidia surveys the effect and declares that Yadi will look quite the lady on the day she marries. Yadi pouts; she looks “horrible, horrendous.” She’s definitely not getting married in this dress, she doesn’t like it. Nidia argues with her; Yadi looks divine and it’s all fixed. Yadi doesn’t like the style….it’s a little….nerdy (naco, Mexican). What nerdy? Nidia is offended that she’s offered her wedding dress and Yadi is insulting it. Yadi sits and pats Nidia’s hand, “it’s okay for your age, Mami.” “But for me?” Nidia tells her not another word! She understands and is offended. She tells Yadi to take off the dress and sarcastically blathers on. Yadi tells her not to be drama queen. Nidia calls her a countess, a duchess, and begs Yadi’s pardon for upsetting her delicate sensibilities, then storms away.

Juan is driving Pastor away from the market. How did your brother seem, he asks Pastor. Plenty ordinary, Pastor tells Juan. His feeling were hurt and he’s having trouble thinking about Angarita. “With no class. I would have preferred something else.” Juan defends Angarita. He may not have much class, but he has a good heart. He’s good people. If you say so, Pastor responds, looking out the window. He’s a little coarse for my taste. Juan points out that the market owners have two things: short tempers and lots of money. His brother is rolling in dough. Pastor can’t believe it could be so much. Juan tells him Angarita has six markets. He moves a lot of merchandise and makes a lot of money. Juan wonders where Pastor wants him to take him. Pastor wants to go home and change clothes, if it’s not too much trouble, then to the funeral home.

Delirio has made himself comfortable in CL’s office to talk about his readiness to come back to work. There are conditions, of course. He wants his work environment improved, for one. He’s really unmotivated by his previous treatment. CL’s eyebrows go up. Delirio continues that he did everything he was assigned to do. What did he get in return? CL shrugs. I was fired like that! Like I’d done something bad in the company. CL asks him what, then, are his aspirations? Delirio wants guarantees for work. Fair and kind treatment. He shakes his finger in the air to punctuate his requirements. And to improve his work conditions. CL offers him to continue in the archives. Delirio protests. No way. CL says he’d better thank God Nidia intervened for him …. But if this doesn’t interest him…. They go around a little, and Delirio sees the light. No, that’s fine. He’ll stay in the archives, but he’s sure he’ll be offered improvements in the future. He looks at CL meaningfully. He understands that CL has made an apology and he accepts it. CL looks pained. Delirio adds a few parting remarks about how it is sure to improve, and tells CL it’s been a pleasure as he slithers out the door. He greets Monica and backs out of her presence, true sycophant that he is.

Moni strides over to Ivonne’s desk and announces that she wants to talk to Ivonne. Ivonne has the grace to look a bit nervous and follows Moni to the office. Marely runs back into Paula’s office, telling her that it looks like Paula is going to have problems. Paula wants to know what more? Marely isn’t sure, but Ivonne went with Monica to her office and Marely’s sure that Paula is the theme of the conversation.

Ivonne is describing how Paula became hysterical and tried to treat her like a servant but she wasn’t giving into it. But Ivonne only takes orders from Don Cesár Luís. Moni wants to know if Paula was abusing her authority how come Ivonne didn’t just take it up with CL instead of fighting with Paula? Oh, well, CL doesn’t like this type of intrigue, and much less when it’s about la Licenciada Paula. What? Well, she’s always had many considerations. Now she acts like she’s the owner of Farell Industries. Moni assures her she can be calm, because the reign of Paula Dávila won’t last much longer. Ivonne puts on a very convincing worried look when she really wants to cheer.

CL asks Paula what happened. Paula says that woman called her a slut, insulted her. Paula knows she did the wrong thing, but just responded to the slur. CL points out it’s even more important for her to control herself than for Ivonne. Paula normally would, but she couldn’t help it. This woman is insufferable! CL tells her in that she is totally right. Paula grins a little. Is he supporting her? One hundred percent! (Cien por ciento). She breaks into a wide grin. He can’t actually congratulate her, but it was about time someone put this woman into her place. She’s presumptuous and insolent. CL asks if she’s gone to the funeral home yet? She hasn’t, so he says they’ll go together. What about your wife? She’s not my wife. She points out the legalities. Okay, I’m no lawyer, no judge, but for all practical purposes, Monica and I are separated. Paula says she’s not used to it yet. He tells her she’ll get used to it. They’ll go together. They go to the garage and round up Fern to take them to the funeral home.

At the funeral home, the wreath from Farell is lovely. The wood casket is shiny and rich, with a lovely white spray over it. Candles burn around the room. Pastor stands mournfully at the end of the casket, looking at it. Nidia and Yadi stop abruptly as they enter the room and seem him and the casket. Yadi has changed into mourning clothing, which is simply her regular look in black. Nidia is a bit more reserved. Yadi protests again that she hates funerals. Nidia scolds and compels her on. They greet Pastor and Nidia offers the most sincere sympathy on behalf of her family. Pastor thanks her, and Yadi nicely tells him that they are with him. Nidia wonders where Juan is—isn’t he with Pastor? Yes, but he had to go back to the office, and he’ll come shortly. Pastor fights tears. He explains that Juan hasn’t left him alone for a single second. Nidia says Juan is of the tenth degree, and Yadi says the twentieth (the best). Pastor says it’s at times like this when one can really measure the size of people’s hearts. Juan, with no other motives, has such great generosity. He’s treated Pastor like a prince, like a brother. Nidia gives him a hug as his tears come, and Yadi stands with her arms crossed, looking a little irritated. Nidia looks over her shoulder at Yadi and makes a face at Yadi’s pouting.

Juan gets out of the car in the Farell garage and sees Kike. Kike wants to know where he’s been. Juan says he’s been helping Pastor with the details for his mother. Kike says that’s very big of you, but I have bad news. He tells Juan about the Profa’s threats to expel Juan. Juan tells Kike he was busy all night helping Pastor. He says all he has to do is go in and his lovely face will do the miracle and will change her mind. He tells Kike the news about Pastor having a brother—a brother in blood, not like Juan and Kike are brothers—Don Angarita! Kike can’t believe it. They have different last names! Juan explains that Doña Pastora, may she rest in peace, had a little thing before she was married and Don Angarita is the result. Juan wants to know where Paula is, he’s going to get her to go to the funeral home. Juan runs upstairs, and sees Marely, who is going to the wake (velorio). Marely breaks the news that she’s gone with CL. Juan frowns with a puzzled expression as we are reminded that any similarity to real life is purely coincidental.

Monday: Is Juan finally going to deck César Luis or are we going to have to wait some more?


Vocabulary:

Padrísimo – way cool, extremely cool
Espantoso – scary, appalling
Está hecho polvo – he’s really down, shattered (made into dust)
Velorio – funeral wake, funeral vigil
Molida – beat, tired, wiped out
Voluntad – wish, will
Abastos - public markets
Golfa barata – cut-rate slut, or street slut
Naco – nerdy, trashy, stupid
Huesudo/a - Grim Reaper, bony

Labels: Juan

Labels: Destilando

Karen (Thursdays) mentioned that she might be out a while from recapping Thursdays. So, if anyone wants to post in the comments here what happened Thursday, please do! I'll copy it into the main post.

Friday - I have a horribly busy weekend and an exam for school coming up this week and I have this nagging feeling like I won't be able to recap Friday's show. If anyone can chip in with what happened Friday too, I would be forever in your debt. Thanks to all you Amar viewers (all 10 of us) for your patience and support!

EDIT - Jestena has saved my bacon once again, she posted a detailed recap for Friday, I'll copy it here. (If anyone can let us know what happened Thursday, Jestena has a lot of info here but feel free to add, that would still be great, thanks.)

jestena said...
Friday, October 26. GSD Gets to Have a Dialog with Ines Instead of a Monologue

Previously, Julio sent bridal gown designs via Ceci for Azul to choose from for her soon-to-be wedding. One of those happens to be Diego's creation. I wonder which one she'll choose?

Casa Mo 2: Mo and Azul talk about Ines' continued coma. Mo offers to pay the hospital bill but Azul doesn't accept. They discuss Silvana's visits with Caty. (I now recall that yesterday Silvana brought a doll for Caty that looked like her deceased mother, in an effort to get Caty to talk about the accident. Mo didn't like the idea and as I recall discourages Silvana from visiting. Silvana thinks it's because of Azul.) Now Mo asks if Azul has had any issues with Silvana. Azul admits she doesn't like Silvana and that Silvana is one of Diego's little honeys. Mo seems surprised by that info.

Hospital: Julio is telling Arnaldo that he'll gladly help with Ines' hospital expenses, when a doctor tells them he must speak with them urgently.

Casa Emilia: GSD is raging to Emilia for suggesting (in yesterday's episode) that they disconnect Ines from life supports. All the Toscanos were furious with her for butting in with that suggestion. Today, Emilia is saying that since Ines took pills to kill herself, they should not try to go against her wishes. (Which from a therapist, I just don't know what to say.) Just then GSD gets a call from Arnaldo saying Tia Ines is awake at last. GSD says he's on his way there, while it's Emilia's turn to look impactada at the news.

Casa Mo 2: Mo spins a yarn to Azul regarding the dear departed Leo's disappearance, saying that she felt displaced and could not accept that Andres planned to marry Ceci. He also claims Leo just confessed to him her amorous adventures with Andres. Mo has an envolope which he pretends is a goodbye letter from Leo in which Leo said she'll only return for Mo's funeral. He conveniently doesn't let Azul see the letter, of course.

Hospital: Arnaldo and Julio welcome Ines back to the land of consciousness. Ines recalls that she was very lonely and could not think of one reason to live. Even though Arnaldo tells her he adores her and wants her to get well,she shouts out that she didn't want to be saved. I'm just glad Emilia wasn't there to say, "I told you so", as Arnaldo would have really gone off. And I would have been right there with him.

Boutique: Diego and Chucho are discussing designs for Julio's fashion show when Ceci basically tells Diego he should just stick to being a tailor and leave the designing to Julio. Gaspar puts her in her place. And by the way, Ceci has some kind of mullet top hairdo which I think makes her look kind of weird and severe.

Hospital: Arnaldo continues to encourage Ines to try to regain her will to live, and to once again play her cello. He says that everyone, and especially GSD, has been at her bedside concerned about her. Suddenly Ines realizes she cannot move her right hand or arm.

Anibal's office: Clemencia has been talking by phone to Diego who cannot come to help her move back to Casa Moran because of his work at the boutique. Anibal overhears and offers to help Clemencia with the move.

Hospital: The doctor is explaining that Ines' paralysis is only temporary and should pass with time and treatment. Ines is agitated thinking they are lying to her and she'll never be able to play her beloved cello again. In the midst of this angst, Emilia arrives and I'm thinking that in her place I'd feel like an interloper or a pain in the butt.

Boutique: Diego and Chucho cannot find Diego's wedding dress design anywhere in their little workshop. Now where could it be?

Casa Mo 2: Azul and Ceci are looking over the wedding dress designs sent over by Julio, when lo and behold, Azul falls in love with the (unbeknownst to her) Diego creation, calling it the wedding dress she always dreamed of. After a commerical we see Ceci talking disparagingly of Diego's designer ambtions. Azul says the shame of it is that Diego is truly talented and could have made it without riding the coattails of Eva Santora.

Boutique: Diego and Chucho promise Julio they'll work around the clock if necessary to get his collection done in time for the fashion show. That Chucho is such a sweetie. I love his friendship with Diego.

Hospital: Emilia assures Ines that she's glad to see her so recuperated as everyone has been worried about her. Ines snorts that she appreciates the sentiment but doesn't believe Emilia is really sincere. Arnaldo with cold politeness shows Emilia the door. GSD goes to arrange Ines' dishcharge from the hospital for the following day (Anyone else think this is a tad premature?), Ines says "Nothing has changed", GSD is still with his new woman. Emilia feels neither Emilia nor Azul really care about her, but Arnaldo assures her Azul does care and would have been there already except for their worry about her recent fainting spells.

Casa Mo 2: Azul, Ceci and Caty discuss wedding plans. Caty will be a flower girl but for now Azul says they will just have a civil ceremony and a church wedding later. Just as she's wishing Tia Ines could be there, she gets a call from Arnaldo with the good news of Ines' awakening. She shares the tidings with Ceci and Caty. Smiles all around.

Hospital corridor: Emilia apologizes to GSD for interloping, and for having suggested disconnecting the life supports. GSD says that yes, even though Ines' arm is affected, what counts is that she's alive. He's smooching Emilia and saying he's glad she came, when the doctor interrupts the love fest to remind GSD that Ines needs much moral support to prevent a suicical relapse. GSD looks to Emilia as if for understanding. She nods in agreement.

Casa Mo 2: Andres and Mo are discussing their cover story about Leo's departure when Azul comes in to tell them her aunt has awakened. she has a sudden bout of weakness but she and Ceci leave for the hospital. Caty has shown Mo the sketch of the wedding dress and Mo tells Andres he'll take charge of the dress himself to prevent Azul from seeing Diego at the boutique.

Casa Diego & Chucho: As Clemencia is retrieving her suitcase, she assures Anibal she'll continue to work for him even though Manuel does not approve. Anibal doesn't want to cause any problems for her, but she says she's happy to be able to earn her own money and not be dependent on Manuel if she wants to buy as much as a stick of gum or "tutti frutti". They both laugh and I'm thinking they make a nice looking couple.

Casa Moran: Piero comes by to try to make up with Lidia. Manuel says his daughter does not want to see him now that he's getting intimate with Lucia again. Is he? I don't know. Manuel somehow manages to let Piero think he's on his side and will work on Lidia and also keep his reconciliation with Lucia a tomb-like secret from Clemencia in exchange for a well paying little job. Piero agrees to get him in on work he's preparing to do for Mo.

Hospital: Azul and Ines have an emotional reunion. Ines tries to apologize and explain about her relationship with GSD, but Azul says that she's promised God she'll forgive and forget and she loves Ines. They hug and cry some more.

Hospital cafeteria. GSD tells Emilia he recognizes that he was unjust to Ines in all their years together as he never acknowledged her before his children and kept their relationship a secret because of his cowardice. Plus he basically just dumped her without even trying to arrange things between them. Emilia asks if he's going to arrange things now with Ines while hurting her (Emilia). GSD swears that Emilia's his woman and that he loves her and only asks for her support as he helps Ines. They nuzzle a little.

Casa Moran: Manuel is sprawled in a chair like the lord of the manor as Clemencia struggles in with her heavy suitcase. Rather than helping her, he demands to know who belonged to the male voice he heard outside. He goes a little ballistic when he learns it was Anibal and warns Clemencia that Anibal is a wife-chasing degenerate or something of the sort. Clemencia says she's a faithful wife, and slyly adds that besides, Anibal is going out with Isela. Manuel does not look delighted at this news flash. Clemencia asks for his help taking her suitcase upstairs, and ever the gentleman, Manauel huffs, "Who, me?"

Casa Silvana & Isela: Silvana is telling Isela she cannot continue with Flavio as she doesn't love him. just then the man of the hour arrives with groceries to prepare them a nice meal to celebrate a surprise he has for them. Silvana turns away from his kiss saying this is no time to celebrate. Just then the door opens and who should dance in happily, but Gloria. Silvana's mouth makes a perfect "O" and she says incredulously, "Mama?"After a commercial break, Flavio has cooked his meal and he and Gloria are chatting merrily away while Silvana and Isela sit with dour expressions. Gloria annonces she has returned because her prince charming turned into a toad. Flavio tells Gloria that Silvana is now his girlfriend and Isela his mother-in-law. Gloria is happy about the girlfriend thing but says the only suegra in the room is herself. Silvana straightens Gloria out that while she was off with her toad prince, Isela had become a mother to her and was in fact her new roommate. Silvana and Gloria wind up arguing in the bedroom with Gloria demanding that Silvana tell Isela to pack up and go.

Boutique: Azul and Ceci are showing Julio the wedding gown design Azul has chosen when Diego enters and sees that it's his very own design. The girls praise Julio for his talent in creating such a wonderful gown and Azul says it's as if it were designed just for her. Julio does nothing to diaabuse them of their mistake while Diego looks as if he's in physical pain.

Hospital cafeteria: Arnaldo agrees to spend the night at the hospital but wonders why GSD wouldn't let Azul stay as she had offered. GSD says something about her health, but then gets vague when Arnaldo asks why he's so preoccupied about Azul's health. GSD denies it's anything serious but he and Emilia exchange looks.

Boutique: Azul asks to have the wedding dress made up for the next day, and Ceci says, looking pointedly at Diego, that Aazul has to get married immediately to avoid temptations. When did she become such a little witch? After they leave, Diego wants to know cómo the hell Azul got her hands on his design. He doesn't want her to wear his design to marry Mo, but Julio says trabajo is trabajo and Diego has to help him out here just as Julio did in giving him and Chucho work. Diego does a double nose wrinkle of frustration.

Casa Silvana, Isela, & now Gloria: Silvana and Gloria argue back and forth in a bedroom that Isela is or is not going to leave. Silvana says she's not going to change her life every five minutes on Gloria's whims. In the living room poor Flavio is leaving. He tries to kiss Silvana but she turns away and he looks hurt. After he leaves the Isela-is-or-is-not leaving argument continues with Gloria saying Isela will have to sleep on the couch as not even God and all the archangels could move her (Gloria) from her own bedroom. She does turn a colorful praise, that one.

Boutique: Chucho verifies to Diego that Julio had asked if the wedding dress design was Diego's. I think Chucho says Julio will have to give credit to Diego during the fashion show.

Hospital: Julio gives Arnaldo a substanial check to pay Ines' hospital bill. Arnaldo is touched but reluctant to accept. Julio gently insists. He's really good with Arnaldo but when Arnaldo asks how Diego's doing at the boutique, Julio says he's an o.k. tailor but has no creativity as a designer. What a liar. They both agree that one has to keep an eye on Diego and work him like a dog, otherwise he'd be expecting to have everything handed to him on a silver platter as per his sugar momma, Eva.

Casa S. I. & G.: Gloria is splayed out on her former bed saying she won't be moved and Isela will have to sleep in the armchair. Silvana says Isela will sleep in the spare bed in her room. Gloria is dismayed Silvana prefers to share a room with Isela than with her own mother.

Boutique: (Last Scene) Diego tells Chucho that Julio said he cannot give Diego credit in this fashion show because his clients are paying for the exclusive Julio brand, but has promised to give him credit in the next collection. Chucho worries that Julio is taking advantage of Diego, but Diego says he's at least being given the chance to learn. He vows that someday he'll have his own business, no matter how long it takes. He and Chucho do that cute knuckle-tapping thing. Twice. I'd really like to have Chucho as my old pal.

Labels: amar

Moni surprises Cl by announcing that she will give him a divorce. She instructs him to tell his lawyer to call her lawyer...and the only thing she asks is that she be allowed to continue working at Farell Industries. Stupid CL's radar should be going off like crazy but he immediately agrees, saying it's her business too. She tearfully wishes him the best of luck and leaves. He looks amazed and impactado, but not necessarily relieved or happy.

Alirio dolefully tells Nidia that there is no explanation for his firing, he was treated horribly. Nidia and Yadi roll their big, heavily made-up eyes and Nidia insults him. He tells her that he uncovered a serious case of fraud and when he reported it CL became furious and fired him. Nidia doesn't believe him. She leaves in a huff for Farell Industries, presumably to negotiate Alirio's rehire.

In a split screen, CL invites Paula to lunch, they need to talk. She agrees but insists that they leave separately, sin chauffeurs, and meet at the restaurant. No one must know. CL licks his lips.

Moni takes her rage out on Fernando. She tells him that all men are cut with the same scissors. Fer tries to play dumb but Moni says he has known of CL's activities all along. She really lets him have it.

Juan calls Paula but Mari answers since Paula has already "snuck" off to lunch. Juan fills Mari in on the Pastora situation; he doesn't know when he'll be in.

Juan comforts a weeping Pastor. Pastor tells Juan that they have to operate on his mamita, however there is a huge problem. They need blood before they operate and unfortunately they are all out of her type, O-negative. Juan is impactado. He goes through a silent and short moral dilemma then makes his decision...he himself is O-negative and will donate his blood!

CL leaves his office for the private Paula lunch. He stops by the wretched Ivonne's desk for his daily dose of beeatch. She knows what he's up to and tells him so.

It's time for the bloodletting. Pastor pats Juan's shoulder while two comely nurses (wearing the required telenovela nurse caps) comfort and prep him. Juan has whiny thought bubbles and obsesses about the huge needle s-l-o-w-l-y p-i-e-r-c-i-n-g h-i-s s-k-i-n.

Moni tells Chelo that she's leaving the apartment. Chelo retorts the CL is the one who should leave. I think Moni says that if she gives CL the same treatment that Paula gave him, she'll see whether he realizes that, by her absence, Moni is serious.

CL and Paula are at the restaurant being their usual boring selves. They can barely communicate with each other and neither are truthful. It's pretty painful to watch. CL says they should be together. Paula plays hard to get and says she's confused. CL says she's lying because deep down she loves him. She says he no longer interests her.

Juan and Pastor have a sweet scene - Pastor brings Juan lunch. Juan says since he gave Pastora his blood he is now one of the family. Pastor tearfully thanks Juan for everything, Juan was divine. Juan says it's no problem, they are friends. Juan refuses to leave Pastor until he knows that everything is fine with Pastora. Enter the doctor who announces that everything is under control and Pastor is ready for her operation.

CL tells Paula that now there is nothing in their way. She informs him that there is something much greater than his wife that stands in their way, it's his lies and dirty tricks. He says she's wrong, he's a new man. (Oh puhleeeeze!) He presses his case. He accuses her of not caring for Juan. She only used Juan to make him jealous. He demands that she look him in the eyes. Did she or did she not use Juan to provoke him? CL is an ass but when he's right he's right.

Back at the hospital Juan thought bubbles, "Who would have thought ... here I am preoccupied by Pastor and his mamita, in a matter of life or death. In the meantime my Licenciada and CL were defining my life and my death, too."

CL and Paula continue arguing ad nauseum about Juan. Finally CL decides to take another tack, he suggests they forget Juan and concentrate on themselves. He wants Paula to return to him. She says she needs time so don't start singing Victory yet. She purses her lips and does a perfect impression of a cat's aft end when the tail is up.

Pre-op Pastora tells Pastor she's worried about him if she dies. She has always managed his life for him. He weeps and begs her to stop talking like that. Pastora feels the need to get something off her chest...there is something that she doesn't want to take to the tomb, she has many secrets. Pastora gets to the point, bless her heart. "You have a brother Pastor, or should I say, a half brother!"

"A brother???" asks Pastor, "how, when, who is it?" Pastora tells her story, before she met Pastor's father she had a suitor with whom she was deeply in love. She surrendered her love to him. Then she says something I don't understand...she fell at his feet when he (or the other?) painted her little birds of gold (pajaritos de oro), and thus she became pregnant. Help anyone?

Fer and Nidia enter the restaurant where CL and Paula scowl over their expensive wine. They see the glumbirds and debate whether to say hello or not. Nidia wants to approach them but Fer holds her back. CL sees them in a clinch and smirks.

Nidia tells Fer she has a surprise for him, it's a little box. Fer is surprised, she bought him an expensive wallet that must have cost a lot. She tells him he's worth more to her than all the gold in the world. He seems genuinely touched. Nidia acts like she's having a hot flash.

Pastora admits that every time she escaped from the house she went off to call Pastor's brother. "That's the last straw," he exclaims, "escaping, hiding, don't you think I deserved to know the truth?" Pastora says she can't change the past, but if something happens to her she wants Pastor to look for his brother. She's afraid Pastor can't survivie on his own. Pastor weeps; she gives him his brother's contact info and Pastor promises he will try to find him. Pastor and Pastora say how much they love each other. Actually I found this scene very touching.

Pastor returns to the waiting room and tells Juan that things are bad, very bad. Juan suggests they go to the chapel to pray. Pastor says it's been too long since he's prayed, it wouldn't be ethical to ask God for help. Juan pooh-poohs that thought. He suggests Pastor pray to his favorite pal, the Santo Niño de Atocha. He should do it for his mamita.

Cut to the operating room...ominous music, a pile of clamps, serious doctors...Pastora's heart does something abnormal. "Doctor we have a complication!!"

Commercial break to a Destilando Amor ad - cat fight between Gaviota and Minerva in the ladies room! Go Gavi!!

Back to Pastora's dire situation - the doctors whip out the defibrillator...one, two, three, bzzzzzap! The doctor shakes his head.

Juan helps Pastor pray that Pastora's life be saved. If she dies then Pastor will die too, so Juan is praying for not one miracle but two.

Kike is interested to see a very chummy Fer and Nidia return from lunch. Kike teases Fer about becoming his father in law.

Juan calls paula. She lies (again!) and says she had lunch with a client. Juan tells her that Pastora is under the knife and poor Pastor is a mess. Juan gets goo-goo with Paula, kisses the phone and says he's loco loco loco for her. He wants to tell the whole world how he feels about her! When they hang up he looks ecstatic and hopeful while she looks bitchy and confused.

Nidia is outside CL's office. Mari tries to talk her out of seeing CL but Nidia will not be swayed. She bursts into CL's office unannounced. "What a surprise," he says wearily, "yet again."

Fer helps Kike study. He pulls a pen out of his jacket and his new wallet flops out. Kike admires it and teases Fer, it's pure calfskin, not fake naugahyde. He calls Fer 'father-in-law' again.

CL tries to tell Nidia he let Alirio go because Ali's potential was stifled at Farell. Nidia doesn't buy it and she begs CL not to fail her in her time of need. "For the love of God," she wails, dropping to her knees, "don't play such a dirty trick on me by sending him back to my house!"

Pastor and Juan pace, they wonder why they heard news yet of the operation? The doctor arrives, sweaty, glum and serious. He tells Pastor he's very sorry, they did all they could, but lamentably Pastor's mamita passed away.

Pastor breaks down but luckily Juan is there to comfort him. Juan thought bubbles that he felt Pastor's pain as if it were his own. He still remembers and his heart shrinks. And what did he say to Pastor at that time? Nothing. What words could fill the void left by his mother? So at that time the only thing he could do was to stay with Pastor and hope, little by little, that time would do its work.

That scene should have been the end...poignant, sad, emotional, but nooooo. Instead CL arrives home. He walks around and sees that Moni has left. He stupidly asks Chelo where Monica is and did she say whether or not she would return? "You would know better than I," retorts Chelo. CL looks kind of impactado, more like constipated, or maybe he's just a little surprised at Chelo's subordinate and accusatory tone.

eso es el colmo = that's the last straw (lit. that's the height)

Labels: Juan

EPISODE - Oct. 25, 2007 - Now in its 'ultimas semanas':

* Rod and Gavi finally reunite at the assembly. As they are catching up, the witches enter and interrupt. They make their usual snide comments and Gavi is very cordial and leaves quickly. Rod and Fedra exchange commentaries about why the three witches actually appeared and then Rod leaves.

* Gavi and Alonso talk as the witches spy on her from across the ballroom.

* Lluvia stands with Dani as she talks with Fedra and her witch students about Don Amador's memory and the threesome's real reason for appearing there (to cause trouble for Gavi). Minnie drinking martinis states she welcomes the fight with Gavi.

* Don Roberto starts the unveiling ceremony and walks Granny P to the stage area. Rod stands at Granny's side while Don Roberto gives the presentation speech. At the appointed time, Don Roberto asks Granny to pull the cord and the curtains open to reveal the plaque with the building named in honor of Don Amador Montalvo.

* At home, Clara has her own little crying party while holding her photo of Don Amador.

* The assembly starts - everyone is sitting along each of the long tables. Don Roberto is speaking then presents Granny P to give a few words on behalf of herself, and her family. As she finishes, everyone stands and applauds. Pancho and Isa take the moment to sneak out into the alcove. Isa stops Pancho to rehash a new plan to throw off Sofia's suspicions about them.

* Gaspar stops Rod to congratulate him and the family. Sophia looks around the ballroom for Pancho.

* Isa and Pancho are still in the alcove discussing Sophia's suspicions and her idea of what to do about it. Pancho doesn't like the idea and tries to dissuade Isa from going through with it. Isa is forceful. As he agrees, Sophia appears and stares at the two of them together. Pancho starts to spout the cover story explanation for why he and Isa have been together all this time (as Isa had just told him to do). Sophia grimaces at the late-blooming explanation. (Ed. Note: All I taste is bile and barf.) As Pancho and Isa continue the story of half-truths to Sophia, Sophia stops them, smiles and says "let's let bygones be bygones, shall we?" Pancho is half-relieved. Isa plays happy that they are still friends. She gives Sophia a half-hearted hug; Pancho takes a deep breath and gulps as Sophia watches him like a hawk.

* Everyone in the ballroom has broken up into small groups around the room. Isa meets up with Fedra and Minnie and the witches watch Gavi and Alonso with the press corp.

* Rod says his good-byes and tells them he has to leave, he has another pressing engagement to attend tonight. As he leaves, Minnie and Isa gossip about Rod and Gavi. Before he leaves, Rod finds Gavi to say good-bye.

* Erika and her friends are having a sing-a-long at her apartment.

* Rod talks with Gavi - he advises her to be careful around Minnie. She tells him about her trip tomorrow to Guadalajara. He wishes her best of luck and then leaves. Alonso goes over to Gavi to talk with her about Rod - she's too irritated with the witches and their horrible attitudes - she needs some tequila shots to get through the event with them present.

* Erika and her friend talk quietly about Rod, as the songfest continues in Erika's apartment.

* Mama Barbara is with Pammie at the hospital - Pammie had another epileptic episode. Mama explains to Pammie where she is and why she's there, as well as that Papa Gaspar had to attend the assembly and unveiling ceremony for Don Amador in Mexico City. Mama tries to get Pammie to give up her vengeance plot against Aaron but Pammie adamantly refuses.

* Gaspar talks with Don Roberto. Gaspar has to return to Guadalajara to be with his wife and daughter. Gavi approaches as Gaspar leaves. Don Roberto tells Gavi about Pammie's epilepsy and to be discrete with the information. Gavi promises.

* The witches sit and gossip and watch Gavi (their favorite subject). Alonso and Gavi chat with the assembly guests. The witches are drunk, especially Minnie, and interrupt Alonso and Gavi and the guests. Minnie starts to spout her mental picture about Gavi the whore in Paris and London. Alonso starts to sputter but Gavi stands up and defends herself by spouting the whole entire truth about her life in Paris and London. Everyone is very interested and intrigued except for the witches who yawn and are bored. Bruno is shocked and horrified and tries to make the witches leave right now. They refuse - Minnie and Isa try again to put Gavi down as a gutter-snipe but Gavi steps up to the challenge and gives her "check-mate" to Minnie and Isa as she expounds on the truth behind their and Aaron's illegal activities at Montalvo Corp. and about Ricardo's huge debt that Rodrigo had to bail him out of. Bruno is totally impactado and humiliated.

* Across the ballroom, Gavi vents to Dani her anger. Dani tries to calm her down. Alonso comes over to offer his support to Gavi.

* Bruno confronts Isa about Ricardo's debt and scolds the threesome. He orders them to leave now. Bruno leaves the group. Fedra and Isa walk away. Minnie goes to find her purse and go to the restroom.

* Gavi calms down with the help of Dani, Elvis and Alonso. Gavi watches Minnie leave for the restroom.

* Gavi follows Minnie inside the ladies room. Minnie looks up in the mirror and makes a crack about her husband. Gavi approaches angry and starts to shake Minnie to get her to answer the question about how many lovers was it? (Catfight!)

* Gavi calmly strolls back to the ballroom and asks someone to call her a taxi as she then approaches Dani, Elvis and Alonso. Alonso says he will be happy to transport her back home, but Gavi declines.

* Fedra and Isa wait at a table for Minnie; Aaron comes over looking for his wife - they don't know where she is. Aaron walks around. Minnie comes out all disheveled, drunk and upset. She starts to whine, cry and shriek about Gavi beating her up in the ladies' room. Aaron and Bruno are mortified and in disbelief. Aaron picks up the shrieking Minnie over his shoulder and carries her out of the building. Gavi talks with Alonso. Bruno and Granny P ask Fedra and Isa what that was all about - Fedra tells them what Minnie had cried, that Gavi beat her up in the ladies' room; Bruno decides the family needs to leave right now!. Isa leaves. Fedra stands there, stomps her foot and says they need to get Gavi fired right now! Bruno and Granny P. negate that immediately. Granny and Fedra leave together. Sophia and Pancho leave behind them. Bruno approaches Gavi for her side of the story. Dani steps in and gives Gavi an alibi, as well as reveal that Minnie had been drinking heavily all event and is pregnant; Gavi is impactado. Gavi then answers Bruno's question. Bruno leaves. Alonso and Elvis join Gavi and Dani. Gavi tells Alonso if he wants her to resign, she will do so. Alonso says not to think about that. He tells her good luck on her business trip tomorrow and not to worry about her mother, he will take care of her and help celebrate her birthday.

* At the apartment, Erika tells her friend, she thinks Rod stood her up.

* Elvis goes to get the car. Dani talks with Gavi about Rod and Dr. Erika - Gavi is upset and presses Dani if there is a serious relationship building between Rod and his psychiatrist. Dani won't answer completely. Taxi arrives. Dani cheers Gavi up about the family reunion tomorrow and about Don Amador. Gavi leaves in the taxi. Dani thought-bubbles to herself.

* The party continues at the apartment. Door bell rings. Erika answers. Surprise! Rod finally arrives, bringing tequila gifts and a mexican polka band. Rod and Erika start to dance together.

* Clara is waiting up as Gavi finally arrives home. After Clara gives her own telenovela rendition of the evening, Gavi corrects her with the truth - she vents about the witches who provoked her all night long, especially Minnie.

* Aaron plops Minnie, who is totally drunk, on the bed. He is fuming angry and scolds her. She so drunk she's not paying any attention.

Tune in tomorrow for: The mystery letter from Don Amador is finally opened and read -- Granny P asks who is Clara Hernandez; Rod thought-bubbles to someone that he is in love with his AUNT (Gaviota)!

Labels: Destilando

Pau starts off in response to CL’s confession: Are you crazy? What about the consequences, especially for me? Why now? It doesn’t help anything now. He continues how he didn’t do it before because he couldn’t find the right moment. He says how in love he is, and he wants to demonstrate in actions not words. She tells him it’s the stupidest thing he’s ever done in his life and the most dangerous and she takes her leave.

Chelo consoles Moni. She says with time this pain will fade too and you might even look back on all this and laugh. She tells her the story of her own husband's betrayal when one of her sisters came to live with them and ended up stealing the husband. They moved out together. She said it was horrible and she even ended up in the hospital. But after a while she resigned herself to move on, and six months later her husband came back like a sorry dog because it turns out her sister had cleaned him out of all his money and ran off with someone else. Moni agrees this was divine justice, and Chelo says that God knows what to do with people, and he hands them what they deserve. Her grandmother always said: he who kills with the sword will die by it (essentially) (Quien a hierro mata, a hierro muere). This gets wheels rolling in Mon’s head as she decides she will give them what they deserve.


Juan tells the boys they are wrong, that he and Pau talked and came to the conclusion that they are not going to mix work with pleasure and are going to have a mature relationship, professional at work. Juan tells himself how wonderful that sounds and Juan tells himself he’s the best.

Alirio, pitying himself over his wound, reads off a list of legal charges he wants to send Juan’s way for the punch. Nid says that if someone doesn’t respect her, well, someone has to defend her, but he’s mad that it’s Juan.

Marely listens to Paula’s rant. Pau complains about CL being stupid for doing this and that he’s really not showing her anything about his feelings for her and that he’s wrong if he thinks this is going to make things better. Merely doesn’t get it because Pau was the one always pushing for him to tell the truth. Pau says now isn’t the time, and Marely asks her, well, if you still love him, why isn’t it the time? Mar continues, or is it because you are starting to have feelings for Juan? Pau flashes us her signature blank look.


In the kitchen, Chelo notes that Mon looks better and that the tea must have done her some good. Mon says it wasn’t the tea but what you said: "You gave me the key to making CL and Pau pay for what they did to me. Their lifetimes won’t even be enough to regret what they did to me and they will pay dearly. " Chelo looks a little freaked.


Mar asks Pau to tell the truth. Pau says one thing has nothing to do with the other. Mar says yeah right, and says she knows Pau left with Juan in front of everyone. Pau says she always leaves with Juan and Mar says don’t play me for a fool and forces Pau to admit she left with Juan to pick on CL. Mar says "and you made him jealous, but that did require sleeping with him, so why did you spend the night with Juan, and don’t deny that you did. Now see how one has to do with the other." Pau doesn’t know. Her feelings before were very clear that she loved CL and respected Juan, but now she’s confused. Mar says that’s how love is. Sometimes it’s not understood. It can’t be proven scientifically. Pau says something about maybe she’s supposed to look at herself and figure out if she really is supposed to deny being with CL or if she should accept what Juan can offer her.

Kike tells Juan of last night’s class, and that the profe was mad he wasn’t there, because he’s absent a lot. Juan tells himself in many adjectives all the virtues he has a student. Kike tells him he knows that’s not true but whatever. Juan wonders why happiness can’t be complete, that just when things are going well, that old flirts twists things up and tricks me. “Rabo = old flirt, like Nidia too” Kike reminds him that’s just Murphy’s Law. Juan, like the good village boy that he is, doesn’t seem to get it and says it’s his law with this woman not that Murphy.

CL is telling Pastor what a tragedy this is; he doesn’t know if he did the right thing. Moni doesn’t want to speak with him and Pau is furious that he told the truth. Pastor tells him this is just fine that both women reacted. If they were indifferent it would be worse. He says this is the best outcome because if Moni had discovered you with your hands in the masa you’d be lost, and besides you then wouldn’t even be able to offer your love to Pau. He tells him not to despair; he’ll see the fruits of his acts soon, just have patience.


Juan tries to get the scoop out of Fer as to where he went when he left the party last night. Fer plays him off and says, "well I didn’t go hang out with your madre postiza (like a substitute or unofficially adopted mother, a pseudo mother if you will)."

Monica marches past and the boys both give impactado looks as she addresses them only with a hand wave. Next she is up in Pau’s office and the two CL love bunnies are staring face to face at each other. I’m hearing the growling and hissing begin.


Moni says, sorry, she’s late but she had a little problem at home, but she’s a hard worker and they have a work arrangement, so she’s here. Pau says she owes her no explanation. Mon asks where they stopped and if they want to get a coffee. Pau looks quite confused at her.


Pastora is leaving her house. A neighbor runs over and says hello and Pastora bites off her head. She says she feels like her bilirubins are up because she thought it was an old lady killer after her. The lady says fine go off then. Pastora tells her she’s going to faint and smacks to the ground. The lady screams for help thinking she killed her.

CL, knowing Moni is in with Pau, wants to know what to do because he doesn’t hear even screaming. Pastor tells him to be calm that everything will be fine. The door cracks and they both look at it with fear. Just then Ivonne enters to tell Pastor he’s got an urgent call from home.

Pastor talks to the neighbor on the phone and complains to Ivonne that the neighbor doesn’t really know what’s wrong, but he has to go home. Just then Juan comes upon him and offers to take him home.

The neighbor is glad that Pastora wakes up. Pastora reacts to the neighbor with great disdain. She accuses her of stealing her shoes. She tells her to get out, but the neighbor tells her she’s in her own house. Pastora beats her repeatedly with pillows from the couch.

Juan tells Pau the news and she sends him off with her blessing to be with Pastor as long as needed. Moni asks why he still addresses her as Licenciada if they are dating. Pau blows it off, as that’s how it started, so they are used to it, plus, at work they respect their positions this way. Outside of work it’s different. Moni leans in and asks Pau very seriously how it’s going between them. Pau says that she thinks they need to talk and Mon asks if they aren’t doing that. Pau says you know what I mean; we need to clear some things up. Mon says she’s all ears.

Alirio wacks Fer as he passes by. He’s waiting for Gaitan and accosts him when he comes up with Juan. Juan is trying to fend off Alirio, but of course he is clueless and insists that Gaitan give him the time of day right now. Gaitan calls him a cheap clown and tells him to leave him alone. Alirio remarks, how about these filthy pigs!! (Guarros)

Ali runs into CL’s office and accidentally smacks him in the eye with the door becauseCL is trying to spy on the ladies. Ali is there to break the news about Pastor’s betrayal. CL already knows and tells him he doesn’t care, and basically tells him he’s a despicable opportunist that takes advantage of other’s misfortunes and gets mad that he calls him Cesarin, a term of endearment. They bleep a curse word that CL calls Ali. CL also calls him an imbecile and a miserable being and kicks him out. I swear during this whole exchange Roberto D’Amico is trying his damndest not to laugh. Something fell off the door when CL slammed it, cheap set.

Pau continues that she supposes that CL has discussed their relationship. Moni confirms yes, he told me everything. Pau starts with her sob story that she was new to the city, and CL treated her very well, and special, and little by little her attraction grew for him but she tried to fight against it because she knew he was married and the last thing she wanted was to come between the two of them. She says he kept pursuing her and her feelings kept growing until they were much bigger than she and she gave in. She knows it’s not an excuse, nor all the blame on him, but this whole thing has now turned into a painful memory for her and for him and now for Moni too. She says she’s really sorry and that hopefully one day she’ll forgive her. Pau says that she hopes Mon can understand and pardon her.


Pastor tells him Mom he’s taking her to the hospital. She argues and kvetches, of course. She refuses to go and gets stiff like a board.

Back in the office of doom, Mon says she appreciates Pau's sincerity but can’t give pardon when she doesn’t feel it. Mon takes the high road and says that they are human beings and they make mistakes but that she expected more from Pau, especially the way Pau treated her when she lost her baby. She says all three have their blame, but she says she never should have opened her home etc to her. Monica changes from “tu” to the more formal “su” when she says Pau’s friendship doesn’t interest her in the least bit. She says she never would have done anything like this to Pau. Pau says she understands that Mon sees things in this manner now, but… Mon cuts her off and says but nothing really. Except, they made a deal to work together, so that is what they will do. I expect nothing more than for us to work together to move this project forward.

By screams, Juan shoves Pastora into the car to go to the Hospital. Pastor is upset that she might die and yells at Juan to hurry.

Mon ends the Pau discussion with work issues and says ok fine, see you, and leaves. Mar runs in and asks Pau what happened and Pau says really she doesn’t know. She says that Mon is either the epitome of civilized or cold blooded and she doesn’t know how to interpret what happened, and is afraid something more is behind this. Mar says yes, it’s weird because Mon should have at least yelled at her, and that if this had happened to herself, Mar would have wanted to come right in there and kill her. Pau says she’s not sure what to do now and wonders if CL really has changed with all this. Ugh, here we go again.


The doc tells Gaitan he needs to do some studies on his Mom and asks if she’s been taking the anticoagulants. He says it’s a drama, but she ends up taking them. He wonders if she’s going to die and doc can’t say, she’s delicate right now and doc leaves to check her out. Pastor gets very upset. Juan consoles him. Juan tells him that he needs to throw heaps of his positive energy towards this, and that she’s a strong woman and all of this will turn out ok. Pastor just doesn’t want her to suffer; aside from her character he still loves her. Pastor tells Juan how much he appreciates that Juan is there to support him and comfort him and tell him such kind words. Juan tells him to be strong and cheer up. This was a great scene.

Yadi is in bed sprawled out with horrible nausea. She never knew it would be this difficult. Nid takes this opportunity to remind her what parents have suffered for their children. Yadi notes she’s dressed up and wonders donde the heck she’s going. She tells her she needs to stop by the market and do a few things out in the streets. Yadi tells her she’s sick, but not in the head so knows she’s up to no good. Nid tells her they’ll have this discussion later. As Nid is about to walk out, Alirio walks in and announces that he’s been fired. Nid and Yadi are impactada.

Moni goes in to see CL, tells him she talked to Pau and says she made a decision. She says she gave him all her love; everything to make him happy since she met him and even wanted to give him a baby. She says she’s made many errors but everyone knows what they do. She can’t make him love her so she will give him his freedom and give him a divorce.

Labels: Juan