Monday, February 11, 2008
Guapos Friday 2/8/08 Merry Christmas, Y'all
Sorry this is late again, folks--I am still learning how much time this recap takes. This show takes longer than others I have done--they speak faster, and they use more slang, and I have to rewind several times to get the notes down. Also, a lot happens in each episode. Anyway, I'm doing my best!
We open with a glimpse of homeless Hugo taking off his disguise. He vows that he will make Mili love him.
Alex rehashes the Santa visit with Bobby (looks like this show follows the tradition of filling time with rehashing to bring other characters up to speed).
Bobby asks if Alex did it for the kids--or for Carlitos? He says he can't believe Alex is in love with a servant. He says that she's pretty but nothing fantastic.
Comic relief filler: Rorgan and Horacio practice dancing.
When you were watching the really bad cuartel scenes on LFMB, did you ever think you would wish to have them back? This minor-character filler is so bad it makes Marta's diet foibles looks like the proverbial Shakespeare. You long for Sara to come in and give them a punch.
Bobby and Al continue their discussion, and Luciana comes in. She asks why they're so serious--and moreover, where Alex was last night. Andrea puts in her unsolicited two cents--Noche Buena is for family. She has a lot of chutzpah taking an advance on her family rights. (I guess Noche Buena is supposed to be Christmas Eve, but wouldn't they be celebrating actual Christmas on this day? If so, they aren't having much fun.)
Out in the vast entry hallway, Rorgan is dancing with Valeria. Why, I don't know. (Practicing for tryouts for the Mexican version of Dancing With the Stars?) He grabs her leg, and she shouts Let me go. Damien comes in and tries to break it up, and Connie comes down the stairs and wants to know why Rorgan is touching his daughter's leg. Valeria pipes up that Rorgan is her professor of tango--let's give them a demo, she says, signaling to Rorgan that he better play along. They start tangoing badly; Rorgan is shaking nervously. Bobby, Alex and Luciana come in. What's going on, they ask? Connie says "your daughter is learning to dance." We hear rising swells of the galloping comic theme music.
Connie now sneers at Alex as again someone demands to know where he was last night. Don't you know that Noche Buena is for family? He says he had an appointment. Andrea demands to know what appointment and shrewishly repeats that he should be with his family.
Mili now comes clattering down the stairs, smiling. Feliz Navidad, you guys! Thanks for last night, Alex. Oops.
Cut to the MS and Padre, who are again trying to figure out how to keep Mili and Alex apart.
Andrea now says she doesn't care about Alex's charitable feelings for those snotnose kids. He stood her up for dinner with that chamosa (low-class girl?). You'd rather be with a servant than with me? He says he wants to talk. Oh, you're breaking up with me, she asks.
Andrea doesn't want him to break up with her like this. He wants to talk (so he can tell her that he's just not that into her). Anyway, here comes Our Little Spitfire. She hears Andrea refer to her as a buscona (synonym for chamosa?). Andrea doesn't want to compete with a servant. Mili says she's learning to be a lady. Andrea says there are too many lowlifes in this house and pulls Mili's hair. Mili gets her in a headlock--yeah!
Connie comes in to break up the fight. There's a kerfuffle over Mili's beloved medallion, which fell off. She is petrified of losing it. He goes off to speak to his mother.
Regina is having none of it--she figures that Andrea must have done something to deserve it.
Alex follows Mili into her room. She is mad that he let that stupid grenuda (hippie girl?) says stupid stuff. Mili scampers off to see Regina. She learns what happened.
Andrea now talks to Regina. Godmother, it was really terrible , she says.
I only pulled her hair because she called me things. I called her a mugriata and a buscona. You did, Regina asks? The only thing wrong here is that I have to be confronted by servants. No, Regina corrects her--the only thing wrong is that you have to learn respect. Regina tells Mili to go to up to Regina's room, as they have lots of work to do.
Regina tells Mili that there have been many years of hypocrisy here, and they have to make up for it. Mili pops out with a "That's my old lady!" What did you say, asks Regina. Oh, nothing, she covers.
Bobby is now grilling Alex on why he's with that peluda (penniless one) and gentuza (riffraff). I think I'm liking Bobby less and less, not that I liked him much to begin with. Alex says there are some things he can't share. Bobby eggs him on--so you like the servant class now?
Connie comes in and asks if they are still talking and discussing. I'm not sure what he says, but I thought it might be that Alex should lead with his strengths. This didn't make much sense. Alex responds with But you're cheating on my mother. Speaking of the Queen of Rome, here comes Luciana down the stairs. Oh, your father is cheating, she asks. No, they all try to cover up. Connie says--oh, do you want to talk about cheating? That shuts her up.
Bobby is now talking to his mom. She is upset at how he's still friends with Alex, because his friend's mother and his father were running off together. Her life is over. Bobby points out that Alex had no fault. Well, says Melena--he should know the kind of mother he has.
Valeria comes down the stairs . Andrea tells her "Your brother has just broken up with me." Snobby Spice is outraged.
Somehow we end up in Andrea's room where Connie is shouting at Andrea. Luciana bangs on the door demanding to be let in--she naively wants to defend Andrea. Connie throws her out and grabs Andrea by the neck. This is disturbingly rough, even for him. He tells her that she has one day to get out. He has someone else and doesn't need her.
Now he lets Luciana in and says "See, she's still alive."
The Padre is trying to tell Alex why Alex can't go out with Mili without really telling him. They are interrupted by Regina, so Padre says he'll tell them more later. Regina discusses soccer. She seems to be saying that Mili needs to learn to be a better team player?
Andrea weeps to Luciana how Connie wants to throw her out. Luciana says that he's doing it because of her son. Andrea says she never thought he would act like that--not knowing that Luciana has a different meaning.
Now Alex and Bobby are out on the tennis court. Bobby reveals that Luciana had plans with Eugenio. Alex punches Bobby, and a big fight breaks out.
Connie now tells Melina that he's going to take her to a five-star hotel and then rent an apartment for her (probably that apartment he just threw Andrea out of). She is all aflutter.
Cut to Hugo in his wheelchair with a plaid blanket. From afar, he looks like Tony Perkins playing Norman Bates's mother; he acts just as creepy too, in my opinion.
Mili comes in and tells him he better get up from the chair. He gives her a Christmas gift--the completed painting. Wow, she says--she loves it. She can't believe she looks so pretty. He says that she is really that beautiful.
He professes his love, but she says he really loves his dead girlfriend.
Andrea talks to an invisible Alex: She says, If you think you can turn me in for a piece of trash, you are wrong.
Mili finds Alex with a big scrape on his face from the fight. She seems to think he got it in soccer. She apologizes for attacking his girlfriend.
No, he says, it's not a problem. She says she only wanted to thank him for what he did for the kids, and Andrea came out and called her a mugrosa buscona. I started to wring her neck (pescuezo). She sure is bony (huesuda), that one. Alex laughs.
Forget what happened, he says. We are finished. He tells Mili that she looks pretty in a dress. She doesn't want him to start again with his candy-coated words. No, he says, he did it because he could be happy with her. He was wrong before.
Karla is now telling Damien that she is pregnant. She wants to get married. Slick Willie tells her they will have a secret marriage. She is thrilled. They make plans to go to a restaurant later.
Meanwhile, Luciana and Connie have a conversation that was very hard to understand. In the end, it's worth it and reveals a lot.
Connie says he's fed up with sleeping next to someone who oozes alcohol from every pore. She wants to know why he treated Andrea badly--because of what that bastard son did. He's not a bastard, Luciana says--he's YOUR son. No he's not. I'm not his father. I'm the idiot who gave him a name for your French sin. (If this were a sitcom with a live audience they would now go "Ooohh." If this were the Jerry Springer show, the audience would now go Whore!")
She points out that he married her to save his business. (So now we finally have an explanation of that money situation--Luciana's family must have provided money to save the business. I know other commenters have mentioned this before, but this is the clearest I can remember it.) Yes, my father arranged this to save the business, Connie says, but he's taken me down for the last time. He storms out, and she grabs a bottle for a drink.
Andrea now cries more crocodile tears to Granny R. Granny R doesn't really want her around with the Alex situation, but she agrees Andrea could stay a few more days till she find something. Apparently, she really is the godmother, and she promised Andrea's dead parents to watch out for her. She says Andrea has to keep out of the way.
Now Regina wants to know why Alex has a scrape on his face.
Damien and Regina get into the car. Damien overacts looking both ways to make sure no one sees him.
Horacio and Soccorro go out for a picnic on a cute raft named Soccorrito.
Mili asks why Regina is so sad. She wants Regina to come to the game as her good luck charm. Regina reminds her that they lost when she came the last time.
She says she's not in the mood because of Alex. He was deceived by his mother.
Now we see that lowlife Damien drop off Karla at a hospital instead of a restaurant. He cruelly dismisses her--did you think I would have a child with you? Go get rid of it, he says. (Question--isn't abortion illegal in Mexico? Well, maybe it was recently made legal in the DF.)
Luciana calls Eugenio in Venice. Alex overhears. So it's true what I heard. She wants to explain. He brushes her off. He would expect this from Connie, but not from her. He runs out.
Alex sees Mili. He is irritated, but asks what she wants. Mili says it's the day of the match, and she wants to know if he's playing. He tells her to go with her lover.
Alex is now crying in his room. Mili comes in. She learns that he was talking figuratively to his mother, not to her. He says he feels really bad about his mother. He knew her life was terrible, that his father made her miserable--but to go off with a married man? the father of his best friend? He says that it's his fault--he should have paid more attention and been nicer.
Mili tells her that it's not his fault. He should forgive his mother. No one is perfect. She's his only mother.
Alex now takes Mili's cap off and pulls her hair down and calls her Mili. Then they kiss. Unfortunately, Luciana comes in and shrieks "How could you be with a servant." Alex tells her that Mili is the one he loves. Impactado looks all around.
We open with a glimpse of homeless Hugo taking off his disguise. He vows that he will make Mili love him.
Alex rehashes the Santa visit with Bobby (looks like this show follows the tradition of filling time with rehashing to bring other characters up to speed).
Bobby asks if Alex did it for the kids--or for Carlitos? He says he can't believe Alex is in love with a servant. He says that she's pretty but nothing fantastic.
Comic relief filler: Rorgan and Horacio practice dancing.
When you were watching the really bad cuartel scenes on LFMB, did you ever think you would wish to have them back? This minor-character filler is so bad it makes Marta's diet foibles looks like the proverbial Shakespeare. You long for Sara to come in and give them a punch.
Bobby and Al continue their discussion, and Luciana comes in. She asks why they're so serious--and moreover, where Alex was last night. Andrea puts in her unsolicited two cents--Noche Buena is for family. She has a lot of chutzpah taking an advance on her family rights. (I guess Noche Buena is supposed to be Christmas Eve, but wouldn't they be celebrating actual Christmas on this day? If so, they aren't having much fun.)
Out in the vast entry hallway, Rorgan is dancing with Valeria. Why, I don't know. (Practicing for tryouts for the Mexican version of Dancing With the Stars?) He grabs her leg, and she shouts Let me go. Damien comes in and tries to break it up, and Connie comes down the stairs and wants to know why Rorgan is touching his daughter's leg. Valeria pipes up that Rorgan is her professor of tango--let's give them a demo, she says, signaling to Rorgan that he better play along. They start tangoing badly; Rorgan is shaking nervously. Bobby, Alex and Luciana come in. What's going on, they ask? Connie says "your daughter is learning to dance." We hear rising swells of the galloping comic theme music.
Connie now sneers at Alex as again someone demands to know where he was last night. Don't you know that Noche Buena is for family? He says he had an appointment. Andrea demands to know what appointment and shrewishly repeats that he should be with his family.
Mili now comes clattering down the stairs, smiling. Feliz Navidad, you guys! Thanks for last night, Alex. Oops.
Cut to the MS and Padre, who are again trying to figure out how to keep Mili and Alex apart.
Andrea now says she doesn't care about Alex's charitable feelings for those snotnose kids. He stood her up for dinner with that chamosa (low-class girl?). You'd rather be with a servant than with me? He says he wants to talk. Oh, you're breaking up with me, she asks.
Andrea doesn't want him to break up with her like this. He wants to talk (so he can tell her that he's just not that into her). Anyway, here comes Our Little Spitfire. She hears Andrea refer to her as a buscona (synonym for chamosa?). Andrea doesn't want to compete with a servant. Mili says she's learning to be a lady. Andrea says there are too many lowlifes in this house and pulls Mili's hair. Mili gets her in a headlock--yeah!
Connie comes in to break up the fight. There's a kerfuffle over Mili's beloved medallion, which fell off. She is petrified of losing it. He goes off to speak to his mother.
Regina is having none of it--she figures that Andrea must have done something to deserve it.
Alex follows Mili into her room. She is mad that he let that stupid grenuda (hippie girl?) says stupid stuff. Mili scampers off to see Regina. She learns what happened.
Andrea now talks to Regina. Godmother, it was really terrible , she says.
I only pulled her hair because she called me things. I called her a mugriata and a buscona. You did, Regina asks? The only thing wrong here is that I have to be confronted by servants. No, Regina corrects her--the only thing wrong is that you have to learn respect. Regina tells Mili to go to up to Regina's room, as they have lots of work to do.
Regina tells Mili that there have been many years of hypocrisy here, and they have to make up for it. Mili pops out with a "That's my old lady!" What did you say, asks Regina. Oh, nothing, she covers.
Bobby is now grilling Alex on why he's with that peluda (penniless one) and gentuza (riffraff). I think I'm liking Bobby less and less, not that I liked him much to begin with. Alex says there are some things he can't share. Bobby eggs him on--so you like the servant class now?
Connie comes in and asks if they are still talking and discussing. I'm not sure what he says, but I thought it might be that Alex should lead with his strengths. This didn't make much sense. Alex responds with But you're cheating on my mother. Speaking of the Queen of Rome, here comes Luciana down the stairs. Oh, your father is cheating, she asks. No, they all try to cover up. Connie says--oh, do you want to talk about cheating? That shuts her up.
Bobby is now talking to his mom. She is upset at how he's still friends with Alex, because his friend's mother and his father were running off together. Her life is over. Bobby points out that Alex had no fault. Well, says Melena--he should know the kind of mother he has.
Valeria comes down the stairs . Andrea tells her "Your brother has just broken up with me." Snobby Spice is outraged.
Somehow we end up in Andrea's room where Connie is shouting at Andrea. Luciana bangs on the door demanding to be let in--she naively wants to defend Andrea. Connie throws her out and grabs Andrea by the neck. This is disturbingly rough, even for him. He tells her that she has one day to get out. He has someone else and doesn't need her.
Now he lets Luciana in and says "See, she's still alive."
The Padre is trying to tell Alex why Alex can't go out with Mili without really telling him. They are interrupted by Regina, so Padre says he'll tell them more later. Regina discusses soccer. She seems to be saying that Mili needs to learn to be a better team player?
Andrea weeps to Luciana how Connie wants to throw her out. Luciana says that he's doing it because of her son. Andrea says she never thought he would act like that--not knowing that Luciana has a different meaning.
Now Alex and Bobby are out on the tennis court. Bobby reveals that Luciana had plans with Eugenio. Alex punches Bobby, and a big fight breaks out.
Connie now tells Melina that he's going to take her to a five-star hotel and then rent an apartment for her (probably that apartment he just threw Andrea out of). She is all aflutter.
Cut to Hugo in his wheelchair with a plaid blanket. From afar, he looks like Tony Perkins playing Norman Bates's mother; he acts just as creepy too, in my opinion.
Mili comes in and tells him he better get up from the chair. He gives her a Christmas gift--the completed painting. Wow, she says--she loves it. She can't believe she looks so pretty. He says that she is really that beautiful.
He professes his love, but she says he really loves his dead girlfriend.
Andrea talks to an invisible Alex: She says, If you think you can turn me in for a piece of trash, you are wrong.
Mili finds Alex with a big scrape on his face from the fight. She seems to think he got it in soccer. She apologizes for attacking his girlfriend.
No, he says, it's not a problem. She says she only wanted to thank him for what he did for the kids, and Andrea came out and called her a mugrosa buscona. I started to wring her neck (pescuezo). She sure is bony (huesuda), that one. Alex laughs.
Forget what happened, he says. We are finished. He tells Mili that she looks pretty in a dress. She doesn't want him to start again with his candy-coated words. No, he says, he did it because he could be happy with her. He was wrong before.
Karla is now telling Damien that she is pregnant. She wants to get married. Slick Willie tells her they will have a secret marriage. She is thrilled. They make plans to go to a restaurant later.
Meanwhile, Luciana and Connie have a conversation that was very hard to understand. In the end, it's worth it and reveals a lot.
Connie says he's fed up with sleeping next to someone who oozes alcohol from every pore. She wants to know why he treated Andrea badly--because of what that bastard son did. He's not a bastard, Luciana says--he's YOUR son. No he's not. I'm not his father. I'm the idiot who gave him a name for your French sin. (If this were a sitcom with a live audience they would now go "Ooohh." If this were the Jerry Springer show, the audience would now go Whore!")
She points out that he married her to save his business. (So now we finally have an explanation of that money situation--Luciana's family must have provided money to save the business. I know other commenters have mentioned this before, but this is the clearest I can remember it.) Yes, my father arranged this to save the business, Connie says, but he's taken me down for the last time. He storms out, and she grabs a bottle for a drink.
Andrea now cries more crocodile tears to Granny R. Granny R doesn't really want her around with the Alex situation, but she agrees Andrea could stay a few more days till she find something. Apparently, she really is the godmother, and she promised Andrea's dead parents to watch out for her. She says Andrea has to keep out of the way.
Now Regina wants to know why Alex has a scrape on his face.
Damien and Regina get into the car. Damien overacts looking both ways to make sure no one sees him.
Horacio and Soccorro go out for a picnic on a cute raft named Soccorrito.
Mili asks why Regina is so sad. She wants Regina to come to the game as her good luck charm. Regina reminds her that they lost when she came the last time.
She says she's not in the mood because of Alex. He was deceived by his mother.
Now we see that lowlife Damien drop off Karla at a hospital instead of a restaurant. He cruelly dismisses her--did you think I would have a child with you? Go get rid of it, he says. (Question--isn't abortion illegal in Mexico? Well, maybe it was recently made legal in the DF.)
Luciana calls Eugenio in Venice. Alex overhears. So it's true what I heard. She wants to explain. He brushes her off. He would expect this from Connie, but not from her. He runs out.
Alex sees Mili. He is irritated, but asks what she wants. Mili says it's the day of the match, and she wants to know if he's playing. He tells her to go with her lover.
Alex is now crying in his room. Mili comes in. She learns that he was talking figuratively to his mother, not to her. He says he feels really bad about his mother. He knew her life was terrible, that his father made her miserable--but to go off with a married man? the father of his best friend? He says that it's his fault--he should have paid more attention and been nicer.
Mili tells her that it's not his fault. He should forgive his mother. No one is perfect. She's his only mother.
Alex now takes Mili's cap off and pulls her hair down and calls her Mili. Then they kiss. Unfortunately, Luciana comes in and shrieks "How could you be with a servant." Alex tells her that Mili is the one he loves. Impactado looks all around.
Labels: guapos
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Yo Amo a Juan February 8, 2008 – In which Pastor has a Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (a nod to Judith Viorst)
It’s a lovely day in Achichipico (thanks, K, for your theory on the name of Juan’s town—which we must keep in mind is also Nidia’s, Herlinda’s, Yolanda’s, and Delfina’s town). Paula isn’t getting what she wants from Delfi—the 411 on Juan. Delfi tells her there’s no one who knows, he’s so enigmatic. [That’s a polite word for it.] Ana looks dubious, but maybe she’s just squinting from the glare of the sun. [Oh, I can hardly wait to see how the Tweedles latch on to Paula].
Nidia’s packs her little red suitcase. Juan is nervous about Paula showing up and they tell her he’s not there. Nidia hadn’t thought of that and Juan wonders if he shouldn’t call someone to let them know. Nidia agrees-- Delfina, right? She could tell Paula you’ll show up sooner or later. [It’s already too late, folks.] Juan loves it and drags her over to the phone so she can call Right Now.
In the Achichipico office of the cuartel’s business, the only one who apparently works there now, Molo, is chatting with Delfi. She tells Molo how discomfited she was with all the questions the women asked, and didn’t want to tell them anything even if she knew. The phone rings and Molo picks it up, announcing “office of Juan Dominguez.” Juan is startled and asks “Molondrón?” Molo tells him it’s good he called—he must be reading Molo’s mind and Delfi has something to tell him. Molo hands off the phone. She tells him she has a news flash (thanks to Cap’n Sylvia, “one of eight columns”-Eight Columns being a news periodical for which Sylvia gave us the website). She describes the lovely Paula asking for him and Juan is impactado. Was it Paula? Yep, the very same, with her mother. Juan wants to know if Delfi talked with them and she affirms it, less than 20 minutes, though. “Well, what did you tell her?” Delfi points out she knew nothing so couldn’t tell them anything. Juan jumps up from Nidia’s bed where they’ve been sitting and Nidia jumps with him, excited even at only half the conversation. She’s got to stop Paula immediately, and tell her Juan’s going to be arriving any old time now. Convince her to stay until I get there. Delfi protests that she won’t know where to find Paula since she’s already left the house. Juan speculates that Paula will go around the town asking for him, so just find her and detain her. Delfi isn’t super enthused about the idea. I wouldn’t be, either. One more thing, Doña Delfina, don’t let her talk to anyone else and don’t let her find out I’m somebody important there—especially not what I’m doing there. Delfi whines that he’s putting her between the rock and the hard place. Juan begs her to give him a hand here, and if she needs help, ask Molo. She reluctantly agrees and Juan falls all over himself thanking her before they hang up-he’s leaving right away for Achichipico.
Paula and Ana check into the local hotel. A young man hovers near the door, and seems to be waiting for them to complete the check-in. Since he’s got no bags, we conclude he’s not the next in line. Ana protests that they can’t stay in this town indefinitely. Paula’s figured out that Delfi wasn’t giving up the info and she’s going to nose around. She’s just got to find out about Juan-she’s not leaving until she finds him. Apparently Juan knows Paula’s ways well. Ana asks what about CL? You need to get back to him as soon as possible. Paula shrugs, well, there’s a complication. Aren’t’ they going on a trip This Weekend? Ana challenges Paula. Paula says they’ll be on time for it. They’re wasting time, so they had best get checked in and get to it. Ana complains that Paula’s going to tell lie after lie. Paula tells her to chill and enjoy the moment. The clerk gives her the key, and she thanks him; apparently the lad is the bellhop in a cowboy hat. Paula expounds on her reasoning (and she feels “alive!”). Ana is worried. Paula says they’re just going to resolve the mystery, puts her arm around Ana and herds Ana out to start the hunt.
Delfi, meanwhile, is getting moral support from Molo. First, she has to find the woman, convince her to wait. Molo wants to know how he can help. Delfi tells him about Juan’s request that Paula won’t find out he’s Mr. Big in town, that she won’t know anything about him. Molo looks concerned—for good reason. Why? Delfi doesn’t know. But he was very clear about it, and they’ll have to tell everyone to zip their lips. Molo thinks Juan’s thrown a monkey wrench in it. Yeah, Delfi told Juan that, but Juan says it it’s a matter of life or death. Molo will see what he can do (shrug). Delfi takes off at a dead trot to get back to her part of this.
CL is very irritated to hear his phone, but warms slightly when he hears it’s his wife. She tells him all is well and spins her tale about what she and Ana are doing. It was a long trip, they’re tired, but they’ve found a precious town. CL probes over how far it was and Paula doesn’t say, only that neither of them realized how far it would be. CL probes once more; what’s the name of the place? Paula triumphantly announces it’s “Achichipico.” Funny name, huh? CL sounds it out and grabs a pen to write it down and makes an amiable comment about the name.
Pastor theorizes to Ivonne about his brother’s business with Juan and how they might be able to work it out with Farell. Even if Anga doesn’t want to do it, Juan might. Ivonne is concerned about the rivalry there. Pastor, dreamer that he is where Juan is concerned, thinks Juan might do business with CL. He just needs to talk directly with Juan. Ivonne wants to know if Pastor calls his brother, will he tell Pastor how to find Juan? Pastor thinks his brother would ask a thousand questions and shave him with a machete. Ivonne thinks that the answer is for Pastor to march right into CL’s office and tell him that Juan’s involved with this business and there’s no way to get it back. Pastor thinks CL would burn him in green wood. Well, Ivonne wants to know, would you prefer to be shaved with a machete or burned with green wood? Pastor tells her not to make fun and she claims she’s not. She warns him sooner or later it’s all going to come out and he’s going to be caught in the tug of war (the torta between the two dogs). She advises him to take his stand, show his strength, and stand firm. Pastor sees the value in that.
Meanwhile, Anga is advising Kike to handle his money carefully. If you don’t handle it carefully, it’s gone forever. The accounts have to be exact! Kike tells him yes, sir and looks wary, but he’s saved by the bell. Anga answers the phone—it’s Pastor. Anga is busy and Pastor says he doesn’t have vision like a telescope to know that. Anga wants to know what’s up. Pastor has something to tell him that Anga needs to know. Ivonne gives him a silent pep talk behind the scenes. So, what’s so important, Anga wants to know. Pastor describes how he was forced to spill the beans about Juan being involved in the business with the Japanese firm. Anga is impactado and upset. He calls Pastor a swine, traitor, Cain [very clever, since he is your bro, Anga. It’s also a low blow]. Anga hangs up and Pastor reports to Ivonne that he hung up. Kike is impactado at the end of the conversation he heard. Anga tells Kike he has to find Juan Right Away.
Yadi is thoroughly put out because Nidia is apparently running off again, this time with her guapíssimo. What about that promise to help Yadi with the baby? Nidia, who has been displaying the traits of about a triple personality split since Christmas, now wants to know why she carries the world on her shoulders. She throws out the references to being the worst Grandma and the worst influence for effect and looks to Juan for his thoughts on the matter. Smart man, he keeps his trap shut. In fact, as Yadi starts in again, Juan makes it clear that he is Not Getting Involved. It’s not his stuff. He only knows they have to Leave Right Now or they’ll miss the bus to Achichipico. Juan grabs the suitcases, picks them both up [Ed. Note: show off, they both have wheels, don’t they?], and Yadi gets in his face. He’s Responsible For Her Mother. At this point, Juan’s agreeing to most everything. He’ll care for her as if she was his very own Mommy. Nidia strokes him in a most un-motherly manner and tells him he’s the sun. Juan looks pained and urges her to go answer the phone, which is ringing. Nidia gives a very formal greeting and we hear the cuckoos sing. But, it’s for Juan—Kike calling. Chinches bravas! Kike has very bad news for Juan. HUH? What news? I’m out of here! Kike convinces Juan he must listen. Farell knows you’re involved with the Japanese firm. ¿QUÉ?? Impactado ‘r’ Juan.
Ana and Paula, dressed to kill in the tropics [whoda thunk we’d see Ana wearing something cut down to her navel? Okay, maybe not that far, but still well below her neck. And, it’s pink and has a lovely pattern.] Paula is on the phone again or still. We can see her in the mirror, which has a lovely black wooden hand cut frame on the dresser. Ana is looking with very narrowed eyes at her offspring who is telling lies again. Paula tells CL she’s not sure when they’ll find the pigments for painting that her Mami is looking for. Ana looks disgusted. I would be, too. Paula assures her enquiring husband that they will be back as soon as they can. Yep, she’s AWARE they have trip this weekend, not to worry. If he needs anything, he should call her cell phone. Paula gets him off as soon as she can and snaps the phone shut. She remarks on how CL seems bothered, cold. Ana can perfectly understand why this might happen. In fact, this man has every reason in the world not to be bothered, but furious. Paula, spoiled brat that she is, can’t get it. Paula wonders if Ana thinks he knows why they came to Achichipico. Ana points out how lame the “pigments” rationale is. Nah, Paula disagrees, he never would have let me come. Ana gives her an exasperated look. The phone rings and Paula thinks CL has called back, but it’s someone down in the lobby looking for Paula. She’s impactada—and has no idea who it could be. Duh. Paula wonders if it could be Juan.
CL paces his lovely office. Oh, how I wish mine was so neat and orderly. [Not to complain, mine is outstandingly lovely, it’s just not that neat and orderly.] Ivonne comes in to take notes on the steno pad that’s embedded in her hand. CL wants info on a town called “Achichipico.” Ivonne’s impactada. CL continues that he wants to know how it’s connected to Juan Dominguez. Ivonne gives him the “qué the heck” look and he repeats the town name multiple times for our listening pleasure. “Well, what a little name!” She struggles to write it down. She wants more details and he yells that he doesn’t know, that’s why he wants info. If he’s connected, if he’s there, whatever. Ivonne wants to know why he’s complicating things so much. Everyone knows he’s in the D. F. But, CL suspects he’s in Achichipico for “something very important.” Ivonne asks if he’s meeting up with Paula, with her best chisme-gathering face on. CL wonders how Ivonne knows his wife is out of town? Moni told her. Ivonne feeds his suspicions a bit. CL wants to know if she’s going to get on it or just focus on conjecturing? He wants the info now—clear? CL takes a sip of water and works the glass over in his hand. Ivonne escapes and hears the glass shatter—in fact, all the lobby lizards are entertained by the sound of glass tinkling from the big boss’s office. Ivonne makes excuses for CL who’s a “little upset.” It’s his habit.
Paula has found Delfi waiting in the lobby to see her. She tells Delfi she’s surprised that they’ve suddenly heard from Juan after all this time. Delfi assures Paula she’s just as surprised that as soon as Paula asked, Juan called. Paula tries another tack; she knows perfectly well that Delfi is a friend of Juan’s and so is Paula. They both love him well. Why doesn’t Delfi just tell him once and for all where he is? Delfi puts on her most innocent face and assures Paula that no one in the town knows where he is. Paula snidely remarks he’s a man of mystery. [Give it up, Paula, it’s lost on Delfina.] Delfi continues with her tale of the call…he call to ask…..the record scratches to a stop. To ask about family, etc. She babbles on about his call. Uh=huh, Paula responds, our mystery man disappears for months and then calls to ask about family, etc. Of COURSE, Delfi assures Paula. What could the man be thinking? Okay, Paula asks, what did you tell him? Delfi tells the truth that she mentioned Paula had stopped by to ask about him. Wow, it’s like a novela! Paula presses on: when you told him that, what did he say, that I’d come looking for him? Delfi blurts out --that he’s coming here. And Paula is predictably impactada. When? Delfi blows out a breath and shrugs.
While Juan paces back and forth in front of the mantel at the Casa Cachón, Yadi yells that he’s making her nuts (infuriating her) and he’s going to walk a groove in the floor. Nidia tries to intervene and tells him Yadi’s right plus he’s infecting them with anxiety. Juan retorts it’s not for nothing, because if Kike is telling him the whole story, it’s very serious. Juan points out that if Kike has it right, they’re looking at something pretty serious. Yadi retorts that Kike has no reason to lie, and Nidia scoffs at her. Nidia seriously doubts Kike’s info and thinks Juan better scrutinize it with a magnifying glass (lupa). Yadi thinks Nidia only agrees with what suits her. Nidia retorts and Yadi tells that okay, at times my hubby babbles on, but only a little. Nidia scoffs about that office, where the gossip service is the fastest known to man. She strokes her body and tells them to calm down, breathe, calm down, breathe. Juan rubs on his arms in harmony with Nidia, who tells him to hang on until Kike gets here and explains. It’s on Juan’s last nerve, though—qué the heck is keeping him? Nidia assures him it’s probably traffic.
Anga is scolding Pastor for waiting until the last minute to open his mouth. Pastor protests that they were pressuring him and he wasn’t seeing it all clearly. Kike looks on in concern as they stand outside….someplace with a stone building that reminds one of a zoo exhibit. Anga accuses Pastor of toadying up to the bosses. Pastor assures his bro he’s telling the truth now. He’s here, facing up to it, asking for forgiveness. What more does Anga want? Anga wants him to learn and not get into these messes (hacer esas jaladas, make these failures). You, in order to stay in good with Farell, are capable of selling out your own brother. Pastor shamefacedly hangs his head and rubs his face. Anga continues that this is all hogwash, and after all you have done for these people they treat you like a criminal (? jerga). Pastor begs forgiveness again and Kike interrupts, checking his watch. Anga stops him; “we’re going already. He has to face the consequences.” They’re going after he talks with this….traitor! Pastor tries to warn his brother, who hustles Pastor off to the truck with them.
Ivonne is hot on the trail of Juan, calling the information booth, or what passes for it, in Achichipico. The chic at the desk where there are pay telephones gives Ivonne the scoop; yep, Juan Dominguez is from Achichipico and there isn’t anyone here who DOESN’T know him. She waxes eloquent about our Juan. But, if you’re interested in the beauty pageant, don’t bother. The town is full of beauties. Don’t waste your time. Ivonne is a little impactada. No, she wasn’t thinking of competing. She describes Juan to see if it’s our guy. Yep, it’s him. Couldn’t be two of them in Achichipico. Ivonne is pleased—have you seen him around those parts lately? Gee, now that you mention it, no. Why are you looking for him? Ivonne hustles off the phone, thanking her and hanging up. Molo runs in to the chica (Margarita) to ask for a favor. He tells her not to tell anyone anything about anything about Juan [sic] if she gets any calls asking about him. Too late! Just a minute ago some chick was asking about Juan on the phone. I told her he lives here and I thought she wanted to know about the pageant, but no. Molo wants to know who it was, her name, something. Nope. Nothing.
Meanwhile, Super Sleuth Ivonne has news for CL. So fast? It wasn’t hard. Look into his personnel file and it’s easy to see his home was Achichipico. Your worst suspicions were confirmed. From what she could figure out, he’s the king of the town. CL is muy, but muy impactado.
Ana doesn’t like any of this a bit, though she’s strolling around a lovely pool in a lovelly hotel in a lovely town with Paula while the bell tower chimes in Achichipico. But, Ana’s not happy with Delfi’s sudden change of attitude; it gives her a bad feeling. Paula, on the other hand, feels optimistic. She feels like she finally could clear things up. Close the circle. Ana thinks it might open the circle more, and new problems, more serious ones, could begin. Paula says that’s why she has to talk with Juan and confront the ghost. They argue about what a face to face will bring. But Paula doesn’t want it by phone, but face to face. She just has to shed this doubt and asks her mother to understand and help out here.
Ivonne continues telling CL that’s all she could find out, and it’s not for sure if Juan’s in the town or on the way. She thinks he should call his little wife and ask her. CL tells her that he wants one thing to be perfectly clear—she’s not to utter one word of this to anyone or he’ll kill her. Ivonne tells him not to worry, because she’s aware that he’s recovering from an operation and his wife’s off looking for her lover. CL clenches his hands together. It’s so sad. CL orders her out of his office because he doesn’t want to fight. She points out he’ll never be able to force a woman to marry him. Because, even if it hurts him, Paula is in love with Juan Dominguez, not CL. CL tells her to get out. Ivonne gives it one last shot, though—look at this, the great César Luis Farell losing his woman to a shabby chauffeur. The day will come when he gets on his knees not to beg for love, let’s say, but for a little company. She purses her lips and stalks out as CL stares in anger at nothing in particular.
Nidia, good abuela, holds the baby while Juan lounges on the sofa and Yadi sits expectantly. Juan jumps up as the door slams. Pastor comes first, then Anga and Kike. Juan greets Pastor and looks over him at Kike and Anga. Kike gives him a signal to hold on. Anga tells Juan to look who they brought. They’re going to resolve this right now. The boys all adjourn to the study.
Delfi and Molo are holding a mini-conference; what to do? Why is Delfi so sure that the Lic Paula is going to wait for Juan? Delfi informs him she noted that Paula is at least as much or possibly more interested in seeing Juan than he is in seeing her. As they say, Mission Completed!
Pastor faces the consequences with Juan and informs Juan that he let the Farell folks know that Juan is involved with his brother and the Japanese folks in the business. Juan is Impactado. You told CL that? Yes, and Sra. Monica. Forgive me, Juan. They all stare at each other, some scowling and one with apology written all over him.
Pastor continues that he’s the worst kind of toady, a bad man, but he’s sorry. He tries to apologize to Anga again. Juan calls him back. What did CL and Monica say? Nothing, because Pastor didn’t confirm that Juan was in the business. Pastor tells them about trying to get the two partnerships working together to avoid CL’s vengeance. Juan quietly tells him that Pastor knew perfectly well what could come with that, and so why did he do it? Weren’t they friends? Anga jumps in; this señor is no friend, but a traitor. Kike pipes up that Juan should realize who are his real friends and Pastor hangs his head again. He swears that he doesn’t know the moment when he lost his way, but Juan can see how sorry he is. Juan tells them all fine, let’s calm down. Anyone can have a weakness. The good thing is that we realize and it can be corrected. Kike tells him “oh, sure, correct it now that the damage is done, huh?” It was bound to happen sooner or later that they’d learn I’m involved in the business, Juan tells them. He sits down quietly, tired of it all. Pastor takes hope; Juan is a saint, a marvel of a man. He can’t imagine Pastor’s feeling that the burden has been lifted. Juan looks sadly up at Pastor, who is still standing in front of the desk. Kike eyes Pastor warily and Anga looks disgusted.
The boys and Nidia have finally made it to the bus station, with the lovely bag that looks like a Gateway computer should be in it. Kike and Juan chat about having made it to the bus, even though it was close. Juan thanks his Blessed Child of Atocha they made it. Kike wants to know what Juan’s going to do now. Well, what can he do except wait for CL’s retaliation? They break into street talk and Juan says what worries him is working it out in person with his little dove, before anyone else gets to her. Meanwhile, next to them, Anga tries to engage Nidia. What’s going on in her life? Forget it, no need to ask questions that don’t really interest you. What, don’t tell me you’re still mad since the last time we saw each other, he wonders. What, me mad? No, man, especially not with a man who is disloyal—like you. What, he asks, just because I refused to go on a binge with you and your friend when you came by the market center? She says that since he has a conscience, he probably hasn’t forgotten that day. Nidia tells him it’s better they keep their distance and pushes him away. He wonders who can possibly understand her; one days she’s all joy and smiles, another she’s a stranger. [Ed. Note: we had the telenovela device of amnesia so far, how about a little split personality thing next?] Nidia lectures him about thinking on people who believe in loyalty, respect, solidarity. But that’s hablablablabla. What’s important is the emotions and ties of friendship that they say are worth so much. Anga remarks that he had forgotten that Nidia is sensitivity made woman. She retorts that it’s nice that he agrees. Anga protests that it’s better for him to invite her to eat so they can talk like civilized and mature adults. Nidia asks him if she’s buying a ticket, has a suitcase, what part of her traveling doesn’t he get? It’s her turn to get a ticket, and she buys it gleefully. [Ed. Note: the agent says she’s in luck, it’s the last one left, so one wonders how Juan is going to get on the bus.]
Delirio is deliriously happy to see the cop coming into the yard at the pen. Gutis looks on as Delirio attacks the cop and tries to convince him that Gutis is the guilty one and Delirio himself is innocent. The cop tells them to calm down, he has to talk to them. They’ve found Manny. He’s on his way to the pen. Delirio’s hands clench as if to strangle….
Ivonne shakes her head as Pastor approaches her desk; what’s he into now? Pastor tells her he had to go with his bro on an urgent matter. Did he tell Anga the truth? Yes. She congratulates him on doing the right thing. He supposes it was. Well, Ivonne wants to know, what did he say? Pastor tells how Anga preached at him. And Juan? Is on his way to his hometown. Anga took him to the terminal. Pastor proceeds to tell her what a great guy Juan is, a sun. He told me not to worry, he understood, the important thing was I corrected it all. So why do you have this long face? Because he felt totally deceived by me. Well, for good reason, Ivonne tells him. But don’t you feel a burden is lifted? Yes…..somewhat. But, I still need to do the worst part. He indicates CL’s door behind Ivonne. Ivonne advises him not to go in because CL is breathing fire because the Lic Paula has gone to look for Juan in his hometown. Pastor says he understands Juan’s rush to leave now. Ivonne gets the glimmer of chisme look in her eyes. She ooohs about what will happen when they get together and advises him again to leave it until tomorrow. Pastor decides it’s better to get it over with today (never leave until tomorrow what you can do today--to the bad step, give speed). Ivonne wishes him good luck, because he’ll need it. Pastor crosses himself, tells her that he hopes that’s God’s will, and that he doesn’t want flowers on his grave.
CL is pensive, smoking with his back turned to the door. Pastor clears his throat and CL turns around, asking what he wants. Can’t Pastor see he’s busy? Pastor apologizes for the interruption but he needs to have a few words with CL. CL says not now. But, it’s urgent. Nothing’s urgent in this life, especially not a conversation with you. But, if it weren’t so important, I promise I wouldn’t be bothering you. Well, then, what language will Pastor understand? CL doesn’t want to talk with ANYBODY. What part is it that Pastor doesn’t understand? Does Pastor want him to draw a picture or what? Or, will he be compelled to forcibly eject Pastor? Pastor finally gets in that he spoke with his brother. Why the h*** does Pastor think CL would be interested in Pastor talking with his brother, his mother, or whoever? Pastor objects to CL bringing his mother, may she rest in peace, into this discussion. Don CL, my brother’s business partner is Juan Dominguez. If looks could kill, CL’s would do worse. And they’re doing business with the Japanese folks. CL’s voice drops 40 decibels to a whisper. “I’m going to kill him.” CL vows to destroy Juan. He’ll make sure that Juan is very sorry for having gotten involved in CL’s business negotiations. Pastor is going to have to help him, though, and that wretch is not going to know what happened to him. Pastor tells CL that Juan already knows that CL is aware of his business. Juan himself authorized Pastor to say so. He knows everything about which CL and Pastor have spoken. CL comes around his desk, rabid. “¿Qué?”
At the bus station, warm hugs and farewells are happening. Anga hugs Juan and looks somberly over his shoulder at Nidia. The men say their farewells, Anga wishes them “good trip,” and Juan tells him to take care (abuzado-careful). He moves toward the bus and Kike tells Nidia farewell. He tells her to behave herself with Juanito, and he doesn’t mean the 6-year old. Kike tells Nidia not to get Juan all mixed up in her silliness. We hear the cuckoo clock…..Nidia throws back a retort and Kike gets a real kick out of it. Anga looks like he wants to get in on the fun.
CL erupts and accuses Pastor of being on drugs, drunk, cursed--something for sure. No, Pastor replies sadly. Well, what then? Don’t you realize what you’ve just done? Pastor stammers that he does, and he’s sorry, but….CL interrupts, turning purple again. Pastor continues—what could he have done? He had betrayed his friend, his own brother, and that’s not good. YOU are talking to ME about what’s good and what’s bad? A person who had not the slightest qualms or scruples about robbing me. A person who, by his negligence, got the company involved in buying pirated software. And it doesn’t seem to be important to you that I have paid the consequences of this stupidity! Pastor stammers again that he knows, but CL needs to understand…. “NO, YOU UNDERSTAND” CL screams at Pastor, you’re a good-for-nothing (mequetrefe-inútil--good-for-nothing) piece of trash (pacotilla)…..(our view moves to the lobby where Ivonne, the lizards, everyone is hearing with us this terrible reaming out as if it were in a wind tunnel or on a megaphone). You’re garbage who doesn’t know how to return a favor, who prefers to bite the hand that feeds you and to defend jerks like Juan Dominguez. I should NEVER have hired a nonentity like you…..(Monica joins all of us out in the lobby, looking as concerned as everyone—no one has the glitter of chisme in the eyes at the moment, including Ivonne or the lobby lizards). Marely looks Very Upset and Fern is somber behind her. I never should have hired a man who is nothing like a man. [Ed. Note: That was just unacceptably low, CL.] Pastor raises a finger—“Pardon me, you are offending me.” CL, totally beside himself, screams—what, you want me to congratulate you? You want an award? Pastor struggles to keep his composure. “No, I only want you to put yourself in my place.” “In your place??? I would die before I would put myself in the place of someone like you!!” The lobby lizards, for the first time in memory, look uncomfortable and even upset for Pastor. CL lowers his voices a little and asks Pastor to do him the favor of getting the H*** out of his office, of his business, and above all, of his life. CL never wants to see Pastor again and Pastor’s presence gives CL nausea. “You disgust me, Gaitán.” Pastor is devastated, but keeping as composed as possible under the stress. “You’re fired. Get out NOW. Don’t put a foot back in this office or I’ll kill you with my own hands. You’re a traitor, hypocrite and an ungrateful dog.” Moni grabs Ivonne and hustles her into Moni’s office. Ivonne sees a good angle and smiles a little to herself as we hear CL continue to yell at Pastor when we thought everything that could possibly have been said was already said.
As the yelling continues in the background, Moni asks if Ivonne knows what’s happening in CL’s office. Ivonne is surprised she doesn’t know. Well, that’s why she asked, if she knew, she wouldn’t be asking! Ivonne smugly reports that CL’s gone hysterical because he’s just found out about the Lic Paula. [Not exactly, Ivonne, but that’s probably your story and you’re sticking to it, no doubt.] Ivonne explains how she had invented an excuse to go find Juan in his hometown. Monica asks how Ivonne knows and Ivonne fills in the dirty details about how CL had her call this little town, Achichipico to see what it had to do with Juan because Paula was going there with her mother, she said. Ivonne wonders why Paula is such a fool to mention the name of the town, and tells Moni how she found the name in Juan’s personnel file. Anyone can find all kinds of things in there. Moni has a look of admiring impactada.
Pastor is miserable as he slowly leaves CL’s office to encounter all the LLs watching closely. Marely and Fern look a bit guilty as Pastor takes his glasses off and wipes his eyes. The concern of all is tangible as sad violin music plays. Pastor hurries to his office through the crowd. Ivonne comes out of Moni’s office and Marely quietly gets her attention to ask what has happened to Don Pastor in CL’s office. Marely’s genuine concern and Fern’s serious demeanor don’t sway Ivonne—“What do you mean, what happened?” “Well, you heard CL screaming in his office and Pastor just came out with such a terribly sad, devastated face. Ivonne sternly tells them to get on the ball (lively) and most likely they’ll be looking for a new head of personnel. [Ed. Note: Dreamer! These folks don’t have a clue how to get on the ball.] Fern is impactado—WHAT? What happened? Ivonne desperately tells him not to ask because it’s so ugly and sooner or later it’s going to happen to everyone. [Ed. Note: Especially if CL and Moni ever get a clue and notice how much Lobby Lounging is happening.] Fern and Marely are concerned and impactados.
An exceptionally unlucky Manny, no glasses or slicked back hair, but wearing the understated tailored khaki uniform that seems to be quite the rage here, is thrown into the exercise yard at the pen, face down. Guys laugh and mock. A crowd surrounds him to toss him around and let him know who’s boss. Gutis and Delirio hang back, waiting…..But Gutis shakes out his arms to get ready to deck Manny at the first opportunity. Delirio, predictably, is impactado. Like he never thought to see his old chum again or something. Manny tosses an insult over his shoulder at the crowd, breaks away from them and sees the Odd Couple, holding out his arms in relief and running to greet them…..only to be decked by Gutis. A great prison yard faked fight ensues. Delirio just hangs around hanging onto Manny’s shirt and yelling for Gutis to calm down. The correctional officers (politically correct term, right?) drag Gutis off of Manny and Gutis is on his feet yelling at Delirio. “Have you forgotten it’s because of this scumbag we’re in the tank? That he disappeared, didn’t face the consequences while you and I were thrown in here?” Delirio looks baffled. Then Delirio slowly moves to Manny, murmuring comforting words while Manny checks to see how many teeth he has left. Poor thing, Delirio tells Manny as he puts both hands on Manny’s face. Gutis watches this in total disbelief. “Sure. Gutis, look.” As Manny relaxes a little at this tender welcome, Delirio bellows to Gutis “BREAK HIS FACE!” Gutis loses no time in diving back at the impactado Manzano. A new faked prison yard fight ensues. We see the back of Manny’s head as he moves around on the ground, Gutis hand on Manny’s shirt as he manhandles the boy, and hear the guys’ yells. Manny wiggles out and stands up to face off with Gutis, the CO standing near. “Just a minute,” Manny snaps at Gutis. Manny says he just gave his declaration to the authorities and absolved the Odd Couple of any guilt. They believed everything he told them. Delirio asks if Manny for sure declared them innocent. Gutis gives him a disbelieving glare. “Of course I did!” He points out that with Gutis it wasn’t such an easy thing. Gutis turns to deepen the scowl. “Yeah?” Manny explains that since they had done some business together, there were documents that compromised Gutis and Manny couldn’t help him much. Delirio wants to know about himself. [Of course.] With you, Manny tells Delirio, it was easier. I told them you were clueless about the pirated programs. I told them you were innocent. Delirio, delirious with joy, exclaims and hugs Manny, kissing and caressing his face until the guys in the yard are totally titillated and hooting. Gutis distances himself fast. [As much as one can in a prison yard with 20 guys that’s about 12x12.]
Pastor is packing his meager belongings and Ivonne is telling him how sorry she is as the sad violins play. Pastor asks if she heard that wretch screaming at him. She did. “Terrible,” Pastor shakes his head and Ivonne agrees, but thinks he did what he had to. Pastor wants to know why, when a person does something he shouldn’t, they pardon him, reward him, they get him out of a jam. But, when a person does what he should, it’s the opposite. Ivonne helpfully tells him that’s life and you have to accept it. Pastor continues—it’s such sadness, so many years dedicated to this company, for what? To end up out in the street like a dog. The LLs watch raptly through the not-so-blinds. Ivonne continues to be helpful, telling Pastor to look on the good side. He’s leaving with his head held high, with his dignity intact, and no one can take it from him, not CL nor Monica, not anyone. Pastor says he can at least go with a calm conscience. “Does that seem so little?” Ivonne asks. She tells him he should feel proud. Pastor didn’t let himself be bought by people whose only interests are their own. Smile, today is the first day of the rest of your life, she exhorts Pastor. Pastor sniffles and looks around distractedly.
Moni has gone to see CL in his office, and asks what happened. He growls, “Oh, please. Don’t tell me you don’t know because I’m not buying it.” He points out that Ivonne surely has already made sure she had the gossip. Moni brings him a glass of water from his desk while he pours from his decanter. She trades the glasses and tells him it’s better for him to calm down first. She reminds him he’s convalescing and could do himself harm. CL wants to know how she proposes that he should calm himself. Especially since he’s dying because of what his wife is doing right under his nose. Moni gives him the feigned wide-eyed innocent look. He warns her to not even think about making a commentary because he won’t stand for it. Moni’s innocent look is honed to perfection. She wouldn’t think of it. She just doesn’t like to see him so upset and it worries her. CL mutters, more to himself than to her, how much he hates this d*** man. He continues on his rant against Juan, hitting himself and declaring that they cuckolded him in the most cynical and insolent way possible. CL smiles with no humor at all.
Meanwhile, that d*** man has a woman’s head on his shoulder in the bus, but it’s not the Licenciada Paula. Nidia is enjoying her time with Juan, and he’s miserable. Nidia’s hand rests on his shoulder, too. She sighs in happiness and tells him this trip seems like something out of a movie—“don’t you think so, treasure?” Juan asks why like a movie? Nidia proceeds to tell him about movie she saw recently with two gals, okay, maybe girls, like herself, who went off to explore the world. She hablablablabla about the plot of the movie while the cuckoo clock sounds. Juan looks at her, bemused by her babbling. He nods periodically and begins to thought bubble—seems that when one is in a hurry to get some place lots of obstacles and problems pop up. He remembers something his mother told him about giving oneself time to have a cool head and things resolve better. But it wasn’t just any old thing he needed to resolve, instead it was with the woman he loved. Juan continues to slip Nidia glances as she babbles on about the hero of the film, with a lovely build like Juan. They got drunk, and….robbed folks, and got into lots of dangerous situations, but how amusing! Juan jumps on her—where’s the amusement in that, I want to know! Nidia is offended at his outburst and wonders what brought that on. It was just the adventure of the movie, that’s all. She fantasizes about herself and Juan on a trip and they could end up on the coast, or a desert island, or…the cuckoo clock goes off again as Juan looks at her in some alarm. Juan tells her to calm down. What was the first thing he warned her? Not to smoke, Nidia wonders? Juan scolds her for messing with him (chistosa-joker). Nope, it’s to be calm. If you couldn’t, you should not have come with me. He scolds that she’s got these “movies” in her head that she shouldn’t. [Ed. Note: Since when is this a new thing, Juan?] He scolds her a little more about these tales and makes her put her head against the backrest to calm down, talking to her as if she’s a preschooler. [Ed. Note: Well, yeah.] She sputters at him—whatever you say, Papi Rico. The bus goes on.
Paula orders tea after the meal for herself and Ana at a lovely outdoor café. [Ed. Question: In Achichipico?] The waiter takes their plates and Paula keeps talking. She whines that she’s nervous and Ana wants to know about what? Paula says about her future, the uncertainty, what might happen—especially with her marriage. Paula continues that since they arrived, she’s had the strangest sensation that her life is about to turn 180 degrees and nothing will ever be like it was. Ana assures her that life is like that, constantly moving. The waiter interrupts and asks if they want anything more, but they don’t. Ana says that she’s not afraid of anything because surprises really don’t turn out to be surprises. On the contrary, things tend to repeat themselves. Paula interrupts and tells Ana she hopes it will move rapidly because Paula feels like she’s in a whirlpool that never stop. Ana tells Paula that her life is really in her own hands, her future, and she shouldn’t leave things to run wild. Paula continues about her fears. Hablablablabla. [Ed. Note: Sorry, folks, I got so tired of whiny Paula all of a sudden I stopped translating.] Ana and I sigh in unison.
While Nidia sleeps on his shoulder, Juan prays to the Blessed Child of Atocha that Paula hasn’t left the building…er, Achichipico.
CL doesn’t want any more of whatever it is that Moni is forcing down this throat and she’s not taking no for an answer. The cup goes up to his open mouth as he protests, NOPE, don’t want any. She insists it will calm him and relax him. [Ed. Note: Probably Valerian tea, which tastes VILE. I wouldn’t want any, either. Take mine in capsule form and it’s over faster.] Finally, he takes it and drinks. Judging by his grimace, it was definitely Valerian tea. Moni asks if he feels better and CL snaps at her. NO. He feels worse. You know what he’s going to do? Moni hopes it’s not some insane thing. Nope, he’s going to look for Paula in that d*** village and he’s going Right Now. We are reminded that any similarity to real life is purely coincidental.
Monday: Juan hears voices on the bus, and he and Nidia get off the bus in the middle of nowhere. CL breathes fire on his desk—could it be all the scotch?
No vocab at the end today, discúlpanme. Soy floja. ;-)
Jeanne
Nidia’s packs her little red suitcase. Juan is nervous about Paula showing up and they tell her he’s not there. Nidia hadn’t thought of that and Juan wonders if he shouldn’t call someone to let them know. Nidia agrees-- Delfina, right? She could tell Paula you’ll show up sooner or later. [It’s already too late, folks.] Juan loves it and drags her over to the phone so she can call Right Now.
In the Achichipico office of the cuartel’s business, the only one who apparently works there now, Molo, is chatting with Delfi. She tells Molo how discomfited she was with all the questions the women asked, and didn’t want to tell them anything even if she knew. The phone rings and Molo picks it up, announcing “office of Juan Dominguez.” Juan is startled and asks “Molondrón?” Molo tells him it’s good he called—he must be reading Molo’s mind and Delfi has something to tell him. Molo hands off the phone. She tells him she has a news flash (thanks to Cap’n Sylvia, “one of eight columns”-Eight Columns being a news periodical for which Sylvia gave us the website). She describes the lovely Paula asking for him and Juan is impactado. Was it Paula? Yep, the very same, with her mother. Juan wants to know if Delfi talked with them and she affirms it, less than 20 minutes, though. “Well, what did you tell her?” Delfi points out she knew nothing so couldn’t tell them anything. Juan jumps up from Nidia’s bed where they’ve been sitting and Nidia jumps with him, excited even at only half the conversation. She’s got to stop Paula immediately, and tell her Juan’s going to be arriving any old time now. Convince her to stay until I get there. Delfi protests that she won’t know where to find Paula since she’s already left the house. Juan speculates that Paula will go around the town asking for him, so just find her and detain her. Delfi isn’t super enthused about the idea. I wouldn’t be, either. One more thing, Doña Delfina, don’t let her talk to anyone else and don’t let her find out I’m somebody important there—especially not what I’m doing there. Delfi whines that he’s putting her between the rock and the hard place. Juan begs her to give him a hand here, and if she needs help, ask Molo. She reluctantly agrees and Juan falls all over himself thanking her before they hang up-he’s leaving right away for Achichipico.
Paula and Ana check into the local hotel. A young man hovers near the door, and seems to be waiting for them to complete the check-in. Since he’s got no bags, we conclude he’s not the next in line. Ana protests that they can’t stay in this town indefinitely. Paula’s figured out that Delfi wasn’t giving up the info and she’s going to nose around. She’s just got to find out about Juan-she’s not leaving until she finds him. Apparently Juan knows Paula’s ways well. Ana asks what about CL? You need to get back to him as soon as possible. Paula shrugs, well, there’s a complication. Aren’t’ they going on a trip This Weekend? Ana challenges Paula. Paula says they’ll be on time for it. They’re wasting time, so they had best get checked in and get to it. Ana complains that Paula’s going to tell lie after lie. Paula tells her to chill and enjoy the moment. The clerk gives her the key, and she thanks him; apparently the lad is the bellhop in a cowboy hat. Paula expounds on her reasoning (and she feels “alive!”). Ana is worried. Paula says they’re just going to resolve the mystery, puts her arm around Ana and herds Ana out to start the hunt.
Delfi, meanwhile, is getting moral support from Molo. First, she has to find the woman, convince her to wait. Molo wants to know how he can help. Delfi tells him about Juan’s request that Paula won’t find out he’s Mr. Big in town, that she won’t know anything about him. Molo looks concerned—for good reason. Why? Delfi doesn’t know. But he was very clear about it, and they’ll have to tell everyone to zip their lips. Molo thinks Juan’s thrown a monkey wrench in it. Yeah, Delfi told Juan that, but Juan says it it’s a matter of life or death. Molo will see what he can do (shrug). Delfi takes off at a dead trot to get back to her part of this.
CL is very irritated to hear his phone, but warms slightly when he hears it’s his wife. She tells him all is well and spins her tale about what she and Ana are doing. It was a long trip, they’re tired, but they’ve found a precious town. CL probes over how far it was and Paula doesn’t say, only that neither of them realized how far it would be. CL probes once more; what’s the name of the place? Paula triumphantly announces it’s “Achichipico.” Funny name, huh? CL sounds it out and grabs a pen to write it down and makes an amiable comment about the name.
Pastor theorizes to Ivonne about his brother’s business with Juan and how they might be able to work it out with Farell. Even if Anga doesn’t want to do it, Juan might. Ivonne is concerned about the rivalry there. Pastor, dreamer that he is where Juan is concerned, thinks Juan might do business with CL. He just needs to talk directly with Juan. Ivonne wants to know if Pastor calls his brother, will he tell Pastor how to find Juan? Pastor thinks his brother would ask a thousand questions and shave him with a machete. Ivonne thinks that the answer is for Pastor to march right into CL’s office and tell him that Juan’s involved with this business and there’s no way to get it back. Pastor thinks CL would burn him in green wood. Well, Ivonne wants to know, would you prefer to be shaved with a machete or burned with green wood? Pastor tells her not to make fun and she claims she’s not. She warns him sooner or later it’s all going to come out and he’s going to be caught in the tug of war (the torta between the two dogs). She advises him to take his stand, show his strength, and stand firm. Pastor sees the value in that.
Meanwhile, Anga is advising Kike to handle his money carefully. If you don’t handle it carefully, it’s gone forever. The accounts have to be exact! Kike tells him yes, sir and looks wary, but he’s saved by the bell. Anga answers the phone—it’s Pastor. Anga is busy and Pastor says he doesn’t have vision like a telescope to know that. Anga wants to know what’s up. Pastor has something to tell him that Anga needs to know. Ivonne gives him a silent pep talk behind the scenes. So, what’s so important, Anga wants to know. Pastor describes how he was forced to spill the beans about Juan being involved in the business with the Japanese firm. Anga is impactado and upset. He calls Pastor a swine, traitor, Cain [very clever, since he is your bro, Anga. It’s also a low blow]. Anga hangs up and Pastor reports to Ivonne that he hung up. Kike is impactado at the end of the conversation he heard. Anga tells Kike he has to find Juan Right Away.
Yadi is thoroughly put out because Nidia is apparently running off again, this time with her guapíssimo. What about that promise to help Yadi with the baby? Nidia, who has been displaying the traits of about a triple personality split since Christmas, now wants to know why she carries the world on her shoulders. She throws out the references to being the worst Grandma and the worst influence for effect and looks to Juan for his thoughts on the matter. Smart man, he keeps his trap shut. In fact, as Yadi starts in again, Juan makes it clear that he is Not Getting Involved. It’s not his stuff. He only knows they have to Leave Right Now or they’ll miss the bus to Achichipico. Juan grabs the suitcases, picks them both up [Ed. Note: show off, they both have wheels, don’t they?], and Yadi gets in his face. He’s Responsible For Her Mother. At this point, Juan’s agreeing to most everything. He’ll care for her as if she was his very own Mommy. Nidia strokes him in a most un-motherly manner and tells him he’s the sun. Juan looks pained and urges her to go answer the phone, which is ringing. Nidia gives a very formal greeting and we hear the cuckoos sing. But, it’s for Juan—Kike calling. Chinches bravas! Kike has very bad news for Juan. HUH? What news? I’m out of here! Kike convinces Juan he must listen. Farell knows you’re involved with the Japanese firm. ¿QUÉ?? Impactado ‘r’ Juan.
Ana and Paula, dressed to kill in the tropics [whoda thunk we’d see Ana wearing something cut down to her navel? Okay, maybe not that far, but still well below her neck. And, it’s pink and has a lovely pattern.] Paula is on the phone again or still. We can see her in the mirror, which has a lovely black wooden hand cut frame on the dresser. Ana is looking with very narrowed eyes at her offspring who is telling lies again. Paula tells CL she’s not sure when they’ll find the pigments for painting that her Mami is looking for. Ana looks disgusted. I would be, too. Paula assures her enquiring husband that they will be back as soon as they can. Yep, she’s AWARE they have trip this weekend, not to worry. If he needs anything, he should call her cell phone. Paula gets him off as soon as she can and snaps the phone shut. She remarks on how CL seems bothered, cold. Ana can perfectly understand why this might happen. In fact, this man has every reason in the world not to be bothered, but furious. Paula, spoiled brat that she is, can’t get it. Paula wonders if Ana thinks he knows why they came to Achichipico. Ana points out how lame the “pigments” rationale is. Nah, Paula disagrees, he never would have let me come. Ana gives her an exasperated look. The phone rings and Paula thinks CL has called back, but it’s someone down in the lobby looking for Paula. She’s impactada—and has no idea who it could be. Duh. Paula wonders if it could be Juan.
CL paces his lovely office. Oh, how I wish mine was so neat and orderly. [Not to complain, mine is outstandingly lovely, it’s just not that neat and orderly.] Ivonne comes in to take notes on the steno pad that’s embedded in her hand. CL wants info on a town called “Achichipico.” Ivonne’s impactada. CL continues that he wants to know how it’s connected to Juan Dominguez. Ivonne gives him the “qué the heck” look and he repeats the town name multiple times for our listening pleasure. “Well, what a little name!” She struggles to write it down. She wants more details and he yells that he doesn’t know, that’s why he wants info. If he’s connected, if he’s there, whatever. Ivonne wants to know why he’s complicating things so much. Everyone knows he’s in the D. F. But, CL suspects he’s in Achichipico for “something very important.” Ivonne asks if he’s meeting up with Paula, with her best chisme-gathering face on. CL wonders how Ivonne knows his wife is out of town? Moni told her. Ivonne feeds his suspicions a bit. CL wants to know if she’s going to get on it or just focus on conjecturing? He wants the info now—clear? CL takes a sip of water and works the glass over in his hand. Ivonne escapes and hears the glass shatter—in fact, all the lobby lizards are entertained by the sound of glass tinkling from the big boss’s office. Ivonne makes excuses for CL who’s a “little upset.” It’s his habit.
Paula has found Delfi waiting in the lobby to see her. She tells Delfi she’s surprised that they’ve suddenly heard from Juan after all this time. Delfi assures Paula she’s just as surprised that as soon as Paula asked, Juan called. Paula tries another tack; she knows perfectly well that Delfi is a friend of Juan’s and so is Paula. They both love him well. Why doesn’t Delfi just tell him once and for all where he is? Delfi puts on her most innocent face and assures Paula that no one in the town knows where he is. Paula snidely remarks he’s a man of mystery. [Give it up, Paula, it’s lost on Delfina.] Delfi continues with her tale of the call…he call to ask…..the record scratches to a stop. To ask about family, etc. She babbles on about his call. Uh=huh, Paula responds, our mystery man disappears for months and then calls to ask about family, etc. Of COURSE, Delfi assures Paula. What could the man be thinking? Okay, Paula asks, what did you tell him? Delfi tells the truth that she mentioned Paula had stopped by to ask about him. Wow, it’s like a novela! Paula presses on: when you told him that, what did he say, that I’d come looking for him? Delfi blurts out --that he’s coming here. And Paula is predictably impactada. When? Delfi blows out a breath and shrugs.
While Juan paces back and forth in front of the mantel at the Casa Cachón, Yadi yells that he’s making her nuts (infuriating her) and he’s going to walk a groove in the floor. Nidia tries to intervene and tells him Yadi’s right plus he’s infecting them with anxiety. Juan retorts it’s not for nothing, because if Kike is telling him the whole story, it’s very serious. Juan points out that if Kike has it right, they’re looking at something pretty serious. Yadi retorts that Kike has no reason to lie, and Nidia scoffs at her. Nidia seriously doubts Kike’s info and thinks Juan better scrutinize it with a magnifying glass (lupa). Yadi thinks Nidia only agrees with what suits her. Nidia retorts and Yadi tells that okay, at times my hubby babbles on, but only a little. Nidia scoffs about that office, where the gossip service is the fastest known to man. She strokes her body and tells them to calm down, breathe, calm down, breathe. Juan rubs on his arms in harmony with Nidia, who tells him to hang on until Kike gets here and explains. It’s on Juan’s last nerve, though—qué the heck is keeping him? Nidia assures him it’s probably traffic.
Anga is scolding Pastor for waiting until the last minute to open his mouth. Pastor protests that they were pressuring him and he wasn’t seeing it all clearly. Kike looks on in concern as they stand outside….someplace with a stone building that reminds one of a zoo exhibit. Anga accuses Pastor of toadying up to the bosses. Pastor assures his bro he’s telling the truth now. He’s here, facing up to it, asking for forgiveness. What more does Anga want? Anga wants him to learn and not get into these messes (hacer esas jaladas, make these failures). You, in order to stay in good with Farell, are capable of selling out your own brother. Pastor shamefacedly hangs his head and rubs his face. Anga continues that this is all hogwash, and after all you have done for these people they treat you like a criminal (? jerga). Pastor begs forgiveness again and Kike interrupts, checking his watch. Anga stops him; “we’re going already. He has to face the consequences.” They’re going after he talks with this….traitor! Pastor tries to warn his brother, who hustles Pastor off to the truck with them.
Ivonne is hot on the trail of Juan, calling the information booth, or what passes for it, in Achichipico. The chic at the desk where there are pay telephones gives Ivonne the scoop; yep, Juan Dominguez is from Achichipico and there isn’t anyone here who DOESN’T know him. She waxes eloquent about our Juan. But, if you’re interested in the beauty pageant, don’t bother. The town is full of beauties. Don’t waste your time. Ivonne is a little impactada. No, she wasn’t thinking of competing. She describes Juan to see if it’s our guy. Yep, it’s him. Couldn’t be two of them in Achichipico. Ivonne is pleased—have you seen him around those parts lately? Gee, now that you mention it, no. Why are you looking for him? Ivonne hustles off the phone, thanking her and hanging up. Molo runs in to the chica (Margarita) to ask for a favor. He tells her not to tell anyone anything about anything about Juan [sic] if she gets any calls asking about him. Too late! Just a minute ago some chick was asking about Juan on the phone. I told her he lives here and I thought she wanted to know about the pageant, but no. Molo wants to know who it was, her name, something. Nope. Nothing.
Meanwhile, Super Sleuth Ivonne has news for CL. So fast? It wasn’t hard. Look into his personnel file and it’s easy to see his home was Achichipico. Your worst suspicions were confirmed. From what she could figure out, he’s the king of the town. CL is muy, but muy impactado.
Ana doesn’t like any of this a bit, though she’s strolling around a lovely pool in a lovelly hotel in a lovely town with Paula while the bell tower chimes in Achichipico. But, Ana’s not happy with Delfi’s sudden change of attitude; it gives her a bad feeling. Paula, on the other hand, feels optimistic. She feels like she finally could clear things up. Close the circle. Ana thinks it might open the circle more, and new problems, more serious ones, could begin. Paula says that’s why she has to talk with Juan and confront the ghost. They argue about what a face to face will bring. But Paula doesn’t want it by phone, but face to face. She just has to shed this doubt and asks her mother to understand and help out here.
Ivonne continues telling CL that’s all she could find out, and it’s not for sure if Juan’s in the town or on the way. She thinks he should call his little wife and ask her. CL tells her that he wants one thing to be perfectly clear—she’s not to utter one word of this to anyone or he’ll kill her. Ivonne tells him not to worry, because she’s aware that he’s recovering from an operation and his wife’s off looking for her lover. CL clenches his hands together. It’s so sad. CL orders her out of his office because he doesn’t want to fight. She points out he’ll never be able to force a woman to marry him. Because, even if it hurts him, Paula is in love with Juan Dominguez, not CL. CL tells her to get out. Ivonne gives it one last shot, though—look at this, the great César Luis Farell losing his woman to a shabby chauffeur. The day will come when he gets on his knees not to beg for love, let’s say, but for a little company. She purses her lips and stalks out as CL stares in anger at nothing in particular.
Nidia, good abuela, holds the baby while Juan lounges on the sofa and Yadi sits expectantly. Juan jumps up as the door slams. Pastor comes first, then Anga and Kike. Juan greets Pastor and looks over him at Kike and Anga. Kike gives him a signal to hold on. Anga tells Juan to look who they brought. They’re going to resolve this right now. The boys all adjourn to the study.
Delfi and Molo are holding a mini-conference; what to do? Why is Delfi so sure that the Lic Paula is going to wait for Juan? Delfi informs him she noted that Paula is at least as much or possibly more interested in seeing Juan than he is in seeing her. As they say, Mission Completed!
Pastor faces the consequences with Juan and informs Juan that he let the Farell folks know that Juan is involved with his brother and the Japanese folks in the business. Juan is Impactado. You told CL that? Yes, and Sra. Monica. Forgive me, Juan. They all stare at each other, some scowling and one with apology written all over him.
Pastor continues that he’s the worst kind of toady, a bad man, but he’s sorry. He tries to apologize to Anga again. Juan calls him back. What did CL and Monica say? Nothing, because Pastor didn’t confirm that Juan was in the business. Pastor tells them about trying to get the two partnerships working together to avoid CL’s vengeance. Juan quietly tells him that Pastor knew perfectly well what could come with that, and so why did he do it? Weren’t they friends? Anga jumps in; this señor is no friend, but a traitor. Kike pipes up that Juan should realize who are his real friends and Pastor hangs his head again. He swears that he doesn’t know the moment when he lost his way, but Juan can see how sorry he is. Juan tells them all fine, let’s calm down. Anyone can have a weakness. The good thing is that we realize and it can be corrected. Kike tells him “oh, sure, correct it now that the damage is done, huh?” It was bound to happen sooner or later that they’d learn I’m involved in the business, Juan tells them. He sits down quietly, tired of it all. Pastor takes hope; Juan is a saint, a marvel of a man. He can’t imagine Pastor’s feeling that the burden has been lifted. Juan looks sadly up at Pastor, who is still standing in front of the desk. Kike eyes Pastor warily and Anga looks disgusted.
The boys and Nidia have finally made it to the bus station, with the lovely bag that looks like a Gateway computer should be in it. Kike and Juan chat about having made it to the bus, even though it was close. Juan thanks his Blessed Child of Atocha they made it. Kike wants to know what Juan’s going to do now. Well, what can he do except wait for CL’s retaliation? They break into street talk and Juan says what worries him is working it out in person with his little dove, before anyone else gets to her. Meanwhile, next to them, Anga tries to engage Nidia. What’s going on in her life? Forget it, no need to ask questions that don’t really interest you. What, don’t tell me you’re still mad since the last time we saw each other, he wonders. What, me mad? No, man, especially not with a man who is disloyal—like you. What, he asks, just because I refused to go on a binge with you and your friend when you came by the market center? She says that since he has a conscience, he probably hasn’t forgotten that day. Nidia tells him it’s better they keep their distance and pushes him away. He wonders who can possibly understand her; one days she’s all joy and smiles, another she’s a stranger. [Ed. Note: we had the telenovela device of amnesia so far, how about a little split personality thing next?] Nidia lectures him about thinking on people who believe in loyalty, respect, solidarity. But that’s hablablablabla. What’s important is the emotions and ties of friendship that they say are worth so much. Anga remarks that he had forgotten that Nidia is sensitivity made woman. She retorts that it’s nice that he agrees. Anga protests that it’s better for him to invite her to eat so they can talk like civilized and mature adults. Nidia asks him if she’s buying a ticket, has a suitcase, what part of her traveling doesn’t he get? It’s her turn to get a ticket, and she buys it gleefully. [Ed. Note: the agent says she’s in luck, it’s the last one left, so one wonders how Juan is going to get on the bus.]
Delirio is deliriously happy to see the cop coming into the yard at the pen. Gutis looks on as Delirio attacks the cop and tries to convince him that Gutis is the guilty one and Delirio himself is innocent. The cop tells them to calm down, he has to talk to them. They’ve found Manny. He’s on his way to the pen. Delirio’s hands clench as if to strangle….
Ivonne shakes her head as Pastor approaches her desk; what’s he into now? Pastor tells her he had to go with his bro on an urgent matter. Did he tell Anga the truth? Yes. She congratulates him on doing the right thing. He supposes it was. Well, Ivonne wants to know, what did he say? Pastor tells how Anga preached at him. And Juan? Is on his way to his hometown. Anga took him to the terminal. Pastor proceeds to tell her what a great guy Juan is, a sun. He told me not to worry, he understood, the important thing was I corrected it all. So why do you have this long face? Because he felt totally deceived by me. Well, for good reason, Ivonne tells him. But don’t you feel a burden is lifted? Yes…..somewhat. But, I still need to do the worst part. He indicates CL’s door behind Ivonne. Ivonne advises him not to go in because CL is breathing fire because the Lic Paula has gone to look for Juan in his hometown. Pastor says he understands Juan’s rush to leave now. Ivonne gets the glimmer of chisme look in her eyes. She ooohs about what will happen when they get together and advises him again to leave it until tomorrow. Pastor decides it’s better to get it over with today (never leave until tomorrow what you can do today--to the bad step, give speed). Ivonne wishes him good luck, because he’ll need it. Pastor crosses himself, tells her that he hopes that’s God’s will, and that he doesn’t want flowers on his grave.
CL is pensive, smoking with his back turned to the door. Pastor clears his throat and CL turns around, asking what he wants. Can’t Pastor see he’s busy? Pastor apologizes for the interruption but he needs to have a few words with CL. CL says not now. But, it’s urgent. Nothing’s urgent in this life, especially not a conversation with you. But, if it weren’t so important, I promise I wouldn’t be bothering you. Well, then, what language will Pastor understand? CL doesn’t want to talk with ANYBODY. What part is it that Pastor doesn’t understand? Does Pastor want him to draw a picture or what? Or, will he be compelled to forcibly eject Pastor? Pastor finally gets in that he spoke with his brother. Why the h*** does Pastor think CL would be interested in Pastor talking with his brother, his mother, or whoever? Pastor objects to CL bringing his mother, may she rest in peace, into this discussion. Don CL, my brother’s business partner is Juan Dominguez. If looks could kill, CL’s would do worse. And they’re doing business with the Japanese folks. CL’s voice drops 40 decibels to a whisper. “I’m going to kill him.” CL vows to destroy Juan. He’ll make sure that Juan is very sorry for having gotten involved in CL’s business negotiations. Pastor is going to have to help him, though, and that wretch is not going to know what happened to him. Pastor tells CL that Juan already knows that CL is aware of his business. Juan himself authorized Pastor to say so. He knows everything about which CL and Pastor have spoken. CL comes around his desk, rabid. “¿Qué?”
At the bus station, warm hugs and farewells are happening. Anga hugs Juan and looks somberly over his shoulder at Nidia. The men say their farewells, Anga wishes them “good trip,” and Juan tells him to take care (abuzado-careful). He moves toward the bus and Kike tells Nidia farewell. He tells her to behave herself with Juanito, and he doesn’t mean the 6-year old. Kike tells Nidia not to get Juan all mixed up in her silliness. We hear the cuckoo clock…..Nidia throws back a retort and Kike gets a real kick out of it. Anga looks like he wants to get in on the fun.
CL erupts and accuses Pastor of being on drugs, drunk, cursed--something for sure. No, Pastor replies sadly. Well, what then? Don’t you realize what you’ve just done? Pastor stammers that he does, and he’s sorry, but….CL interrupts, turning purple again. Pastor continues—what could he have done? He had betrayed his friend, his own brother, and that’s not good. YOU are talking to ME about what’s good and what’s bad? A person who had not the slightest qualms or scruples about robbing me. A person who, by his negligence, got the company involved in buying pirated software. And it doesn’t seem to be important to you that I have paid the consequences of this stupidity! Pastor stammers again that he knows, but CL needs to understand…. “NO, YOU UNDERSTAND” CL screams at Pastor, you’re a good-for-nothing (mequetrefe-inútil--good-for-nothing) piece of trash (pacotilla)…..(our view moves to the lobby where Ivonne, the lizards, everyone is hearing with us this terrible reaming out as if it were in a wind tunnel or on a megaphone). You’re garbage who doesn’t know how to return a favor, who prefers to bite the hand that feeds you and to defend jerks like Juan Dominguez. I should NEVER have hired a nonentity like you…..(Monica joins all of us out in the lobby, looking as concerned as everyone—no one has the glitter of chisme in the eyes at the moment, including Ivonne or the lobby lizards). Marely looks Very Upset and Fern is somber behind her. I never should have hired a man who is nothing like a man. [Ed. Note: That was just unacceptably low, CL.] Pastor raises a finger—“Pardon me, you are offending me.” CL, totally beside himself, screams—what, you want me to congratulate you? You want an award? Pastor struggles to keep his composure. “No, I only want you to put yourself in my place.” “In your place??? I would die before I would put myself in the place of someone like you!!” The lobby lizards, for the first time in memory, look uncomfortable and even upset for Pastor. CL lowers his voices a little and asks Pastor to do him the favor of getting the H*** out of his office, of his business, and above all, of his life. CL never wants to see Pastor again and Pastor’s presence gives CL nausea. “You disgust me, Gaitán.” Pastor is devastated, but keeping as composed as possible under the stress. “You’re fired. Get out NOW. Don’t put a foot back in this office or I’ll kill you with my own hands. You’re a traitor, hypocrite and an ungrateful dog.” Moni grabs Ivonne and hustles her into Moni’s office. Ivonne sees a good angle and smiles a little to herself as we hear CL continue to yell at Pastor when we thought everything that could possibly have been said was already said.
As the yelling continues in the background, Moni asks if Ivonne knows what’s happening in CL’s office. Ivonne is surprised she doesn’t know. Well, that’s why she asked, if she knew, she wouldn’t be asking! Ivonne smugly reports that CL’s gone hysterical because he’s just found out about the Lic Paula. [Not exactly, Ivonne, but that’s probably your story and you’re sticking to it, no doubt.] Ivonne explains how she had invented an excuse to go find Juan in his hometown. Monica asks how Ivonne knows and Ivonne fills in the dirty details about how CL had her call this little town, Achichipico to see what it had to do with Juan because Paula was going there with her mother, she said. Ivonne wonders why Paula is such a fool to mention the name of the town, and tells Moni how she found the name in Juan’s personnel file. Anyone can find all kinds of things in there. Moni has a look of admiring impactada.
Pastor is miserable as he slowly leaves CL’s office to encounter all the LLs watching closely. Marely and Fern look a bit guilty as Pastor takes his glasses off and wipes his eyes. The concern of all is tangible as sad violin music plays. Pastor hurries to his office through the crowd. Ivonne comes out of Moni’s office and Marely quietly gets her attention to ask what has happened to Don Pastor in CL’s office. Marely’s genuine concern and Fern’s serious demeanor don’t sway Ivonne—“What do you mean, what happened?” “Well, you heard CL screaming in his office and Pastor just came out with such a terribly sad, devastated face. Ivonne sternly tells them to get on the ball (lively) and most likely they’ll be looking for a new head of personnel. [Ed. Note: Dreamer! These folks don’t have a clue how to get on the ball.] Fern is impactado—WHAT? What happened? Ivonne desperately tells him not to ask because it’s so ugly and sooner or later it’s going to happen to everyone. [Ed. Note: Especially if CL and Moni ever get a clue and notice how much Lobby Lounging is happening.] Fern and Marely are concerned and impactados.
An exceptionally unlucky Manny, no glasses or slicked back hair, but wearing the understated tailored khaki uniform that seems to be quite the rage here, is thrown into the exercise yard at the pen, face down. Guys laugh and mock. A crowd surrounds him to toss him around and let him know who’s boss. Gutis and Delirio hang back, waiting…..But Gutis shakes out his arms to get ready to deck Manny at the first opportunity. Delirio, predictably, is impactado. Like he never thought to see his old chum again or something. Manny tosses an insult over his shoulder at the crowd, breaks away from them and sees the Odd Couple, holding out his arms in relief and running to greet them…..only to be decked by Gutis. A great prison yard faked fight ensues. Delirio just hangs around hanging onto Manny’s shirt and yelling for Gutis to calm down. The correctional officers (politically correct term, right?) drag Gutis off of Manny and Gutis is on his feet yelling at Delirio. “Have you forgotten it’s because of this scumbag we’re in the tank? That he disappeared, didn’t face the consequences while you and I were thrown in here?” Delirio looks baffled. Then Delirio slowly moves to Manny, murmuring comforting words while Manny checks to see how many teeth he has left. Poor thing, Delirio tells Manny as he puts both hands on Manny’s face. Gutis watches this in total disbelief. “Sure. Gutis, look.” As Manny relaxes a little at this tender welcome, Delirio bellows to Gutis “BREAK HIS FACE!” Gutis loses no time in diving back at the impactado Manzano. A new faked prison yard fight ensues. We see the back of Manny’s head as he moves around on the ground, Gutis hand on Manny’s shirt as he manhandles the boy, and hear the guys’ yells. Manny wiggles out and stands up to face off with Gutis, the CO standing near. “Just a minute,” Manny snaps at Gutis. Manny says he just gave his declaration to the authorities and absolved the Odd Couple of any guilt. They believed everything he told them. Delirio asks if Manny for sure declared them innocent. Gutis gives him a disbelieving glare. “Of course I did!” He points out that with Gutis it wasn’t such an easy thing. Gutis turns to deepen the scowl. “Yeah?” Manny explains that since they had done some business together, there were documents that compromised Gutis and Manny couldn’t help him much. Delirio wants to know about himself. [Of course.] With you, Manny tells Delirio, it was easier. I told them you were clueless about the pirated programs. I told them you were innocent. Delirio, delirious with joy, exclaims and hugs Manny, kissing and caressing his face until the guys in the yard are totally titillated and hooting. Gutis distances himself fast. [As much as one can in a prison yard with 20 guys that’s about 12x12.]
Pastor is packing his meager belongings and Ivonne is telling him how sorry she is as the sad violins play. Pastor asks if she heard that wretch screaming at him. She did. “Terrible,” Pastor shakes his head and Ivonne agrees, but thinks he did what he had to. Pastor wants to know why, when a person does something he shouldn’t, they pardon him, reward him, they get him out of a jam. But, when a person does what he should, it’s the opposite. Ivonne helpfully tells him that’s life and you have to accept it. Pastor continues—it’s such sadness, so many years dedicated to this company, for what? To end up out in the street like a dog. The LLs watch raptly through the not-so-blinds. Ivonne continues to be helpful, telling Pastor to look on the good side. He’s leaving with his head held high, with his dignity intact, and no one can take it from him, not CL nor Monica, not anyone. Pastor says he can at least go with a calm conscience. “Does that seem so little?” Ivonne asks. She tells him he should feel proud. Pastor didn’t let himself be bought by people whose only interests are their own. Smile, today is the first day of the rest of your life, she exhorts Pastor. Pastor sniffles and looks around distractedly.
Moni has gone to see CL in his office, and asks what happened. He growls, “Oh, please. Don’t tell me you don’t know because I’m not buying it.” He points out that Ivonne surely has already made sure she had the gossip. Moni brings him a glass of water from his desk while he pours from his decanter. She trades the glasses and tells him it’s better for him to calm down first. She reminds him he’s convalescing and could do himself harm. CL wants to know how she proposes that he should calm himself. Especially since he’s dying because of what his wife is doing right under his nose. Moni gives him the feigned wide-eyed innocent look. He warns her to not even think about making a commentary because he won’t stand for it. Moni’s innocent look is honed to perfection. She wouldn’t think of it. She just doesn’t like to see him so upset and it worries her. CL mutters, more to himself than to her, how much he hates this d*** man. He continues on his rant against Juan, hitting himself and declaring that they cuckolded him in the most cynical and insolent way possible. CL smiles with no humor at all.
Meanwhile, that d*** man has a woman’s head on his shoulder in the bus, but it’s not the Licenciada Paula. Nidia is enjoying her time with Juan, and he’s miserable. Nidia’s hand rests on his shoulder, too. She sighs in happiness and tells him this trip seems like something out of a movie—“don’t you think so, treasure?” Juan asks why like a movie? Nidia proceeds to tell him about movie she saw recently with two gals, okay, maybe girls, like herself, who went off to explore the world. She hablablablabla about the plot of the movie while the cuckoo clock sounds. Juan looks at her, bemused by her babbling. He nods periodically and begins to thought bubble—seems that when one is in a hurry to get some place lots of obstacles and problems pop up. He remembers something his mother told him about giving oneself time to have a cool head and things resolve better. But it wasn’t just any old thing he needed to resolve, instead it was with the woman he loved. Juan continues to slip Nidia glances as she babbles on about the hero of the film, with a lovely build like Juan. They got drunk, and….robbed folks, and got into lots of dangerous situations, but how amusing! Juan jumps on her—where’s the amusement in that, I want to know! Nidia is offended at his outburst and wonders what brought that on. It was just the adventure of the movie, that’s all. She fantasizes about herself and Juan on a trip and they could end up on the coast, or a desert island, or…the cuckoo clock goes off again as Juan looks at her in some alarm. Juan tells her to calm down. What was the first thing he warned her? Not to smoke, Nidia wonders? Juan scolds her for messing with him (chistosa-joker). Nope, it’s to be calm. If you couldn’t, you should not have come with me. He scolds that she’s got these “movies” in her head that she shouldn’t. [Ed. Note: Since when is this a new thing, Juan?] He scolds her a little more about these tales and makes her put her head against the backrest to calm down, talking to her as if she’s a preschooler. [Ed. Note: Well, yeah.] She sputters at him—whatever you say, Papi Rico. The bus goes on.
Paula orders tea after the meal for herself and Ana at a lovely outdoor café. [Ed. Question: In Achichipico?] The waiter takes their plates and Paula keeps talking. She whines that she’s nervous and Ana wants to know about what? Paula says about her future, the uncertainty, what might happen—especially with her marriage. Paula continues that since they arrived, she’s had the strangest sensation that her life is about to turn 180 degrees and nothing will ever be like it was. Ana assures her that life is like that, constantly moving. The waiter interrupts and asks if they want anything more, but they don’t. Ana says that she’s not afraid of anything because surprises really don’t turn out to be surprises. On the contrary, things tend to repeat themselves. Paula interrupts and tells Ana she hopes it will move rapidly because Paula feels like she’s in a whirlpool that never stop. Ana tells Paula that her life is really in her own hands, her future, and she shouldn’t leave things to run wild. Paula continues about her fears. Hablablablabla. [Ed. Note: Sorry, folks, I got so tired of whiny Paula all of a sudden I stopped translating.] Ana and I sigh in unison.
While Nidia sleeps on his shoulder, Juan prays to the Blessed Child of Atocha that Paula hasn’t left the building…er, Achichipico.
CL doesn’t want any more of whatever it is that Moni is forcing down this throat and she’s not taking no for an answer. The cup goes up to his open mouth as he protests, NOPE, don’t want any. She insists it will calm him and relax him. [Ed. Note: Probably Valerian tea, which tastes VILE. I wouldn’t want any, either. Take mine in capsule form and it’s over faster.] Finally, he takes it and drinks. Judging by his grimace, it was definitely Valerian tea. Moni asks if he feels better and CL snaps at her. NO. He feels worse. You know what he’s going to do? Moni hopes it’s not some insane thing. Nope, he’s going to look for Paula in that d*** village and he’s going Right Now. We are reminded that any similarity to real life is purely coincidental.
Monday: Juan hears voices on the bus, and he and Nidia get off the bus in the middle of nowhere. CL breathes fire on his desk—could it be all the scotch?
No vocab at the end today, discúlpanme. Soy floja. ;-)
Jeanne
Labels: Juan
Pasion Friday Feb 8 - Memo to Santiago: Camila is not YOUR wife
Lis talks to Ric and then when she is out in the hallway, she loudly says that he’ll regret what he has done. But OOOPS – her blindness betrays her, she didn’t realize someone was standing there in the hall. It’s Pablo. She says she was just upset, please don’t say anything about what she just said. She was over there swearing to God, her dead mother and father and all that is holy, but really heh heh I didn’t mean it. Pablo says he will keep his mouth shut. I’m not sure if he will or not. Also, I can’t see this actor (though is doing a fine job) without thinking back to when he and his mute partner worked for Cristobal in Alborada and wore those ridiculous wigs where the hair curled up on the bottom. It makes me laugh every time.
Back in her room, Lis whines to Fran about Ric getting married. Again. She comes up with some idea how to get Ric for herself and how Ric really loves her. Again.
Ric and crew get ready to leave, Mario has decided to join them. He leaves Pablo in charge of the house and the rest of them all leave.
A figure limps across the plaza in the middle of the night – it’s
Ofelia has a headache or something, Ines is making an herbal treatment. So it’s late enough for Ric and crew to sneak out to LaFont’s house, it’s so late that Santiago is the only person out in the plaza, but Ofelia and Ines are still awake and fully dressed? I guess things are more convenient this way, when
Ric and crew storm LaFont’s house. Ric has a head wrap that looks like Steven Van Zandt from Bruce Springsteen’s band. They all cover their faces and Ric rings the bell, saying he has some urgent news for Alberto. The guy opens the door and they hold him down. Ric said no noise and no killing. The all split up and search the house. Ric takes FOREVER lighting a candle and looks around LaFont’s room. He finds some documents that look interesting, then he finds some coins. Mario also looks around what looks like an office. Ric also looks like the guys at the very beginning of the movie “Brotherhood of the Wolf”, when they have their coats up over their noses. Sorry for all the references, this is what goes through my mind when I watch TV. Brotherhood of the Wolf is a very interesting movie if you haven’t seen it. Anyway. Upstairs, Nana hears something and does a very Zombie-like walk to the door and into the hall. Mario sees her and grabs her, covering her mouth. Ric hears her yell anyway and rushes out there. He meets up with Mario, they throw Nana back into her room and close the door. Nana and Manuela stress, worry, and pray. Nana says they had faces like demons!
Outside, Ric asks what happened. Mario explains and says don’t worry, they won’t recognize us. Ric complains that he doesn’t want to hurt women, Mario says yeah I know you told me a thousand times. They bicker like old women then realize they are still standing outside and have taken off their disguises. Mario thinks Ric is being a wuss, does he think Jorge and Alberto worry like that? Ric says so what, we have to be like them?
Inside they look at what they found. Ric found some letters, Ric and Mario deduce that it is correspondence between LaFont and Foreman. So, Foreman is involved in the assaults on the caravans. They realize that LaFont has been selling the gold to Foreman. Ric produces coins he found at Alberto’s house, from
Jorge gives some cash to each of the two guys who helped with the last assault. They say it isn’t enough, surely Jorge and Alberto got more. Jorge basically says so what, I’m the boss whatever I want. The other guys don’t like it. Then Gonzalo pipes up from the back of the room, he is sloppy drunk. He complains that at least they got some money, he got nothing because he was off running an errand. Jorge tells Uriel, who looks like the fourth musketeer, that he is getting one of Jorge’s concessions and Gonzalo is getting the other one. Then the third guy complains what about me? Jorge says he gets whatever the others don’t want or don’t do a good job with. More complaining. Gonzalo wants cash to pay off his debt, Jorge says if he does well with the business they’ll work that out. More complaining. These losers will surely turn on each other and make it easier for Ric to find out what happened. Perhaps Gonzalo, being so disgruntled and also a drunk, will say something. Gonzalo then says something about Ric marrying Camila right under his nose, Jorge reproaches him. Gonzalo continues, the others chime in a bit, wanting to know why Jorge doesn’t do anything. Jorge says he’s waiting for LaFont to return, then he’ll decide what to do. Gonzalo slurs “so our opinion means nothing?” Someone tells him “shut up, you’re drunk, go home.” Gonzalo trips on something but finally makes his way out the door. After he leaves, Jorge tells the others that he is worried about Gonzalo, if he opens his fool drunk yap and says even one word about all this, they are all screwed (the word he used was ‘fried’). Ah so even more now I think Gonzalo will be the one to say something stupid.
Camila is getting dressed, worried about Ric since he didn’t come over last night. Jimena tells her to calm down, this is what it will be like being married to El Antillano. Camila worries some more.
GRita says she couldn’t believe it when
In the plaza, Ascanio reads the two pronouncements, one about
Walking down a path, Camila makes excuses for being with
Manuela and Nana are worried about what happened, Manuela is worried that somehow LaFont will yell at her for this, somehow blaming it on her. I don’t put it past him. A card arries for LaFont, Manuela says that she has to take it to Jorge, she leaves.
Jimena and Ascanio discuss the ED card, Ascanio knows about it too. They are worried about it resurfacing. They wonder if Vasco lied and still has the card.
Jorge reads the card that Manuela brought. It’s from Foreman, saying that he is going to come to
Ursula walks
Ric and Camila visit Justo, who says they need to tell Vasco they are married. Camila wants to have a wedding party together with him and Ines, Ric says fine. Justo wants to go see after his businesses, Camila tells him uh no, no, we have it taken care of. Justo says he’s much better, look how his hand doesn’t shake! He holds it out for them, he has only a small tremor.
Outside, Camila asks Ric if it was wrong not to tell him, Ric says he doesn’t know, it’s her decision. She thinks he’s mad, he says he’s thinking of something else. She says always something else but he hasn’t ever told her what that is. He says there hasn’t been time, she says find the time. Then she tells him how worried she was when he didn’t come to the house last night. They run into Marcelino, who is bringing the notice to Justo about losing his concessions. He tries to run on in, but they finally convince him to let Camila sign for it instead, since Justo doesn’t know yet. Ric asks if she wants to tell him later, she doesn’t know, she’s worried that he’ll take it hard. Ric says Justo is strong, does she want him (Ric) to tell him? He says it’s easier for people to hear bad news from strangers sometime, they are better able to control themselves. She agrees. Just then Ofelia and
Ric goes inside and does a great psych job on Justo, telling him how everyone didn’t want to tell him the bad news but Ric knows better, he knows how strong Justo is and that he would be able to handle it. He explains how Jorge did it because Camila and Ric got married. Justo guesses before Ric has to tell him that Jorge took away his concessions. Ric then tells Justo how Jorge and Alberto are the ones stealing gold from the caravans, and that is why Ric came here, to bust them on it. He wants Justo’s help. He doesn’t say how but he gets Justo to swear that he won’t say anything to anyone.
Outside Camila is pacing madly,
Walking home, Ric tells Camila that he shared the info on the caravans with Justo, because his life is more important than keeping a secret.
Jorge is interrogating Manuela, she swears nothing was stolen, there were five guys, she didn’t see any of them, but Nana said they had faces like demons. Jorge wants her to stay at his house until Alberto comes home, she of course is worried that Alberto will freak out, Jorge says he’ll explain, she leaves to get ready.
Camila and Ric, who seem to have just been taking one long walk all day long (how I would love to have time like that, to just walk around with my wife all day in the sun doing whatever, that sounds awesome), run into Ascanio in the plaza and tell him that Justo knows the news now. Ascanio says what then, should we close up? Ric says sure, but take all the merchandise and put it at Justo’s house, that’s his own property. They can sell it there from the yard. But won’t Jorge get mad? Ric rightly says that Jorge will find things to get mad about no matter what, so what’s the difference. Ascanio says he’s going to go get the porno twins and get right on it. Camila says she saw Ric with Ascanio talking the other day, what about? Dang woman you are going to turn into GRita if you insist on interrogating your man, knock it off. Ric says he was telling him that he was going to get married with Camila. She asks if he trusts him so much that he told him before anyone else? Ric just says, “let’s go home.” Maybe his lies are starting to unravel.
At Ofelia’s house, she is giving cures to various peasants. Ines comes to her and says she doesn’t really trust Ursula. Ofelia plays innocent and says that Ursula just did what God told her to do. Ines says the news is out on Ursula, she likes good looking men and
She gets there in a hurry.
Monday – LaFont tells Don Gaspar that he thinks Ricardo Lopez de Carvajal is realy Ricardo Salamanca, pirate.
Labels: Pasion
Mariana Karr's Restaurant Caray, Caray in Mexico City, Plaza del Carmen de San Angel
Fabulous Argentine and Italian style food at
Caray, Caray a Mexico City restaurant
founded by Mariana Karr and María Zarattini
Avenida de la Paz, #57, 2 piso.
Plaza del Carmen
San Angel, Mexico City
To Mariana Karr and all the Caray Caray Blog fans,
Here is the promised tale of my pilgrimage to find Mariana Karr's restaurant, Caray Caray, in Mexico City. I don't remember who first reported to the blog about reading of the restaurant's grand opening last September but I made myself a promise right then to search for this connection to Doña Mariana, the talented Argentine actress, whom I regard as our patron saint of this blog. Named for Mariana's famous lines often repeated in the wonderful telenovela, Alborada, "Caray Caray", both this blog and the restaurant have held a compelling lure for me since I learned about both in the late summer of 2007.
I watched the first episode of Alborada in February 2006 while attending Spanish School at Universidad Internacional in Cuernavaca, Mexico with the family I lived with. Later in the spring, Alborada started on Univision in the States and I watched avidly with friends in New Mexico for months and we eventually would look forward to counting how many times Mariana (in the character of Tia Isabel) could say Caray Caray. She was often the only person/character who had a clue about what was happening in this intricate plot. Her portrayal is of a character full of courage and clear insight in a world of deceit and intrigue in this 19th century story of Mexico produced by Carla Estrada and so ably directed by Monica Miguel. As a romping good tale of adventure with superb Mexican actors, it was my introduction to telenovelas as an entertaining medium and method for studying Spanish and even learning more about Mexican history and culture. Writer Maria Zarratini was the screenwriter for both Alborada and Pasión.
But back to this pilgrimage. After 4 weeks of Spanish studies at Uninter, I headed to Mexico City on a bus to indulge my lifelong addiction to museums, cathedrals and pyramids in the city I have loved since my student days in my first voyage of discovery out of the US in the mid 1960's. Saturday was a gift of blue skies in a city with formidable air problems while the gentle February sun energized me for the pursuit of the art treasures in the Museum of Modern Art. Armed with my new level of Spanish and hungry after my breakfast of huevos rancheros wore off, I fearlessly conquered the Metro system which is pleasantly clean, efficient and cheap. It is so easy to use I don't know why I hesitated using it the last two years. I guess the scary stories of dangers in Mexico City have worn off slowly. I think an alert, circumspect traveler is totally safe in the daytime visiting all the wonderful historical treasures and enjoying the delightful cuisine and shopping. The people are incredibly friendly. Sunday is especially congenial as a family day when the citizens want to enjoy the same beautiful sites that the tourists do.
I arrived in this prosperous neighborhood of Plaza del Carmen in southern Mexico City which hosts a Saturday market of arts and crafts and found Caray, Caray on the 2 piso (3rd floor to US folks). It is a tiny, pristine restaurant with simple yet elegant decor (well wouldn't you expect this petite, elegant woman to convey her personal style in every centimeter of the place?). The staff was warm and friendly, I took a few pictures and told the waiter about my quest to find the restaurant and a bit about the Caray, Caray Blog. Shortly after, the manager emerged who happens to be Mariana's daughter Sol. She asked more questions about the blog then she gave me the incredible news that Mariana would be at the restaurant on Sunday afternoon. If I could come back again, I could meet her. WOW! The food was delicious and so fresh. I chose the steak "Arrachera" figuring a true Argentine restaurant would know what to do with beef. Since I grew up in Wyoming I have, even in these anti-red-meat times, an occasional penchant for great beef. I have had arrachera before in Mexico and it is a great tasting thin piece of steak (the cut is flank steak in the US). But, come hungry, Caray, Caray's version is BIG, so very tender and flavorful. All I could fit in besides was a simple fresh salad of lettuce, tomato and onion. The menu tells that no preservatives are used and you can taste the truth of it's freshness.
Sunday was another blue sky day that I started the morning with a bus ride to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe enjoying the gardens, all the antique churches and the throngs of happy pilgrims and visitors on a joyful day for families to enjoy these world famous treasures. In the afternoon I made my way on the Metrobus back to Plaza del Carmen and sat down again in Caray Caray wondering if Mariana Karr would indeed come. Her daughter and assorted family and friends were already there. Everyone was so friendly like the day before and greeted me so warmly. She appeared suddenly at my table. I was so overwhelmed by the sight of her especially the light streaming from her brilliant blue eyes, I was almost unable to remember any Spanish. Fortunately, I had my laptop with me so showed her some pictures as I explained about the Caray Caray blog with all her fans. Yes, I even showed her the Willa, the blog-famous poodle pictures in her pirate scarf posing as the long lost twin to Fernando Colunga's alter ego, Ricardo in Pasión. She laughed at that, but I was unable to connect to the wireless internet at the restaurant to give her a tour of CarayCaray. I gave her the website URL, http://caraycaray.blogspot.com which I hope she will access to see this story and hear from all of you in the comments.
But back to the important details of the second meal: this time I chose from the list of "La Verdadera Empanada Argentina". The humita, with corn and cheese (elote y queso) and the carne with the most delicately spiced ground beef. The pie-like crust characteristic of empanadas was so tender and did I mention how fresh and flavorful? Every bite melts in your mouth. Oh, and the real Italian capuchino was the living end after a month of disappointing, tepid Nescafe instant coffee in too many places in Mexico.
If (when) you go, here's how to get there:
Directions using the Metro: From whatever point you enter the Metro get to Line 3 (Indios Verdes to Universidad) go south toward Universidad to the San Angel colonia to the stop Viveros or Miguel Angel de Quevedo. When you come out of the metro look for a taxi to Avenida de la Paz #57, 2 piso, Plaza del Carmen. The metro is 2 pesos and the taxi will be about 35 to 50 pesos.
Directions using the Metrobus on Avenida Insurgentes: This brings you closest to the restaurant. Put in about 12 to 20 pesos, depending on your entry point, the machine which does not give change, you get a plastic reusable card which then needs to be activated in this machine then scanned at the turnstile. Friendly guards and fellow travelers will help till you get the hang of it. Take the bus headed south toward Dr. Galvez but get off one stop early at La Bombilla. When you exit you will be on Av. Insurgentes looking south, at the first corner see Av. de la Paz., cross to your left and walk left uphill about one block to #57 on the left. The elevator or stairs will take you up to Caray Caray.
Later at night or if you don't feel confident with Spanish, taking a taxi may be best. From the Zona Rosa area this will cost at least 150 to 200 pesos each way.
The food at Caray Caray was the best I had in all of Mexico. What a fabulous, unexpected delight to meet this warm, personable lady and what a privilege to tell her about this blog and all the friends she has here. Thanks Mariana for a memorable day.
Hasta luego amigas y amigos,
CherylNewMex or
CherylMarParaNMex
and Pirate Lass Willa
aka Pirate Ricardo's lost twin
Labels: Alborada, Pasion, stars
Friday, February 08, 2008
I Love Juan - Thurs 2/7 - In which Pastor decides to spit out the worms
Ahoy all! This recap will be in two parts. I succumbed to a rather nasty chest cold, had to take some cough medicine last night, and it conked me out halfway through the show. I'll finish the recap tonight, I promise!!
Pastor weeps to Ivonne that he's selling out the blood of his blood and his best friend, all for a guy and a woman who have always viewed him as just an old rag. He reveals that Anga, somehow aided by Juan, got the Japanese deal. Thanks to his mouth that eats worms they now want Juan's head. And the worst part is, he agreed to help them!
Pau and CL had their roll in the hay and now they're lolling in their scarlet bed. Pau is tepid and said it was 'lovely'. This kind of annoys CL, but he brushes it off, saying the boinking shows they are a couple and have a marriage. Odd logic coming from a player like him.
Ivonne tells Pastor he's a Judas, a traitor. He wails what could he do? The jefes threatened to fire him from the biz. With uncharacteristic lucidity she points out that things will never change and the jefes will never change. Wasn't Juan his pal in good times AND bad? And Pastor would betray his own bro? She says if he chooses Farell over his friend and bro then he'll live to regret it. She advises him to follow his ethics and clean conscience. Pastor weeps at the choice he must make.
Have y'all ever noticed that many of the props associated with CL are of a very, er, vertical nature? The next scene opens with the camera panning up up up his tall cylindrical apartment building to the tippy top of his penthouse. Pau is inside whining to Ana over the phone to help her lie to CL about her trip. She swears it will be the last time. Ha, what a joke. Ana wants no part but Pau ramps up the whining as CL walks in and catches her on the phone. She quickly concludes that she'll be over the pick her ma up. Cl somehow decides that he'll go with Pau and have his chauffeur follow him. Paula doesn't care for this idea but CL insists.
Juan, in short robe and cowboy boots, calls Juanito in Achichipico. While they talk they do the same little nervous habits at the same time...scratching their chins, tapping the chair, etc. Juanito tells his papi he's learning about Pancho Villa in school "and he's just like you dad!" No, not because all the ladies love him, but because he wanted to help the poor. Juanito concludes he's proud to have a papi like Juan.
Pastor and Ivonne are now at work and Pastor tells her he's decided to tell Anga and Juan the truth. Ivonne is afraid if Pastor loses his job it will be her fault. The background piano music that indicates True And Lasting Friendship starts to play. Pastor reassures Ivonne, takes her hand, and tells her that sometimes she is truly astonishing.
Just then the the skinny Julia replacement busts in to announce that the new computers have arrived! Farell is back in business. Time for the massages to stop and the work to begin. (My theory about Julia is that the actress was pregnant in real life and had to leave the show to have her baby, but I digress.)
Pau and CL, followed by his car and chauffeur, arrive at Ana's house. Pau tries to give CL the bum's rush but to her dismay he insists on going in to say hi to Ana.
There is an uncomfortable conversation inside where Ana plays along with Pau's story and CL tells her to take good care of his beloved Paula during their journey to research vegetable pigments. This is too much for Ana and she scoots upstairs to change. CL kisses Pau and tells her AGAIN how much last night meant to him. She can't wait to get him out of the house and shut the door behind him.
Over at Casa Cachón Juan has ants in his pants while Nidia tries to fan away her hot flash. He wants to know why they haven't heard from Pau. Nidia tells him to be patient.
Meanwhile Pau hustles Ana out of the house. Let the pilgrimage begin! Ana says this trip is madness. Pau answers that if she doesn't do this she'll have no peace.
In Achichipico Molo and Herli drive through the streets in a truck decorated with paper flowers. With a large speaker they advertise their beauty contest for the Anthurium Queen. She almost lets him kiss her but they are interrupted by a young beauty who wants to sign up. The swarthy truck driver leers at her.
CL and Moni have a meeting at work and make flirty eyes at each other.
In his office, Pastor adjusts his toupee and sighs that it's time to "hurry up with the bad steps" meaning he'd rather do the dirty deed now and get it over.
Moni asks CL if she can tell him something that will annoy him. He looks at her like "as if I could stop you". She doesn't think Pau told him the truth about her little trip with Ana; she thinks Pau has gone to look for Juan, not vegetable pigments. CL pretends that this doesn't bug him but as soon as Moni leaves she and the rest of the office hear him breaking glass. She smiles...mission accomplished!
Pastor strides up and tells Ivonne to announce him to CL but he changes his mind when CL barks through the phone "No Visitors!!"
Juan urges Nidia to call Paula at Ana's. She tries but gets no answer. Juan becomes agitated, what if Pau and Ana went to his pueblo? Nidia pooh-poohs this idea, Paula do something that emotional? Nah!! They try to call her cellular but it's out of the service area. What now? The light bulb goes on over Juan's head; maybe Pau told Marely her plans!
Nidia says no way will Marely break Paula's confidence. Juan struts and claims that around Achichipico he is known as Juan "The Forceful" (or maybe in this sense it means The Convincer). Nidia counters that Marely is known as Marely "The Incorruptable".
Pau drives and recalls sweet moments with Juan. The viewers will note that for a "common" man he says and does many uncommonly romantic things. Hmmmmph!
Juan and Nidia grab Mari who is suspicious and wants to know why they have been behind closed doors and acting odd since yesterday. Nidia asks why does Mari always have to be a bitter cucumber (sourpuss? suspicious?). Mari insists she'll not betray Pau, no favors, count her out of their plan!
CL goes home and steams. He answers the phone and it's Mari (with Juan the Forceful and Nidia the Persuader on either side). He tells her that Pau and Ana took a spur-of-the-moment trip and won't be back until tomorrow. He squints his eyes suspiciously.
Juan and Nidia clap triumphantly but Mari is mad that they coerced her into participating in their machinations. She stomps off but Juan doesn't notice. He now knows that Pau is headed for Achichipico!!
To be continued...
Mari berates herself to Yadi that she didn't have the courage to cross her arms when that twit (Juan) asked about his little Paula. Yadi cackles that Mari is probably just jealous. Mari denies it and says Juan could have just a little tact. Yadi laughs harder. Juan? He's a man; he doesn't know what tact means. She advises Mari to use her head. Juan won't change, he'll only get worse with time. Mari asks, what if she still loves him? Yadi strongly urges her to forget Juan. She has a new boyfriend, just what she asked for. "Mmmmm, Fer is very nice," agrees Mari, and she's tired of that stupid Juan. It's time to close her heart and start fresh. Yadi agrees, and if Mari follows that path then before she knows it she might find herself in a church on Fer's arm.
Juan tells Kike he needs to go to Achi to find out what's happening. Kike says it will be like always, Juan will end up like dog meat, half-masticated and abandoned. Anyway, what if they meet and Paula vows her undying love? She's married! They discuss some more and Kike sums it up: Pau is a flower and Juan is a cactus, she's a lady and Juan is an apache, she's velvet and Juan is polyester... Ya basta! Juan gets the idea. He claims he can turn himself into an English Lord is that's the game she wants to play.
Mari complains to Nidia that Juan used her, and for her own half sister! She says she wants Pau to be happy, just far away from her.
Since Pastor didn't get a chance to talk to CL earlier he is back to being conflicted. He tells Ivonne he doesn't want to leave Farell, where would he go? Who would have him? Who would hire an old dude like him? He regrets ever opening his big mouth. Ivonne advises him to go home, rest, and face tomorrow with a fresh head.
Juan and Kike are down at the station buying a ticket to Achichipico. Juan leaves tomorrow.
That night Juan dreams that Paula is in prison. It must be porno prison because she's wearing an incredibly sexy striped prison mini-dress and high heels. She breathily tells him she searched for him in every corner of the world. She needs him so very much. The camera in Juan's dream head stares at her cleavage, down to her shapely legs, then back up. She says she's trapped in this prison and only Juan can rescue her. She blows him a kiss.
We see Juan sleeping. Marely sits at his feet in the dark and thought bubbles that she's going to forget him. She's going to fall in love with Fer and start fresh. She almost touches his leg but she pulls back. "Adios Juan" she whispers as she leaves.
The next morning Juan tells Kike that he (Kike) was right last night. Juan could be more polished; Juan needs a hand. Kike laughs, "From me? I'm more naco than you!" Juan tells him there are people who specialize in that sort of thing. He's thinking of going to an Elegance Academy or Charm School and Kike should go too. Kike asks why should he go? He likes being naco. Naco is cool! Juan makes Kike look in the mirror at his bad posture and his oinky belly.
Pau and Ana arrive in Achi which they think is a very precious town. A passer-by offers to take them to Delfina's.
Juan thanks Nidia for all her help. He's off to find Paula. Nidia has a great idea! She'll go with Juan; she's just crazy about these love stories.
Las Davila arrive at Delfi's. Pau tells her they have a mutual friend, Juan Dominguez. She introduces herself and Delfi looks pleasantly impactada to meet Paula Davila.
At Farell, Pastor gives Mari a hard time for being late, but all he really wants to do is pump her for info on Juan. She tells him she and Juan didn't talk much, he was preoccupied with his business. Juan left and she doesn't know where but that's Juan for you; he just disappears. Pastor rubs his chin.
Delfi tells the ladies that Juan isn't around. Paula, her usual insulting self, doesn't believe her. Delfi offers to let her search around if she wants. Paula actually starts to get up until Ana pulls her back down. Delfi approves of Ana's manners but not Paula's. Delfi tells them that Juan left some days ago to visit friends. She doesn't know who; Juan is very enigmatic. Pau looks bothered and Delfi looks pleased.
Juan asks Nidia what if Paula is already in Achi asking around for him? Maybe they should call Delfi to warn her!
Delfi is in the Achi office confiding to Molondrón that she thought it was best not to say anything to Las Davila. The phone rings and it's Juan. Delfi tells him she has one of eight columns (Ocho Columnas), I think she means a news flash. A woman was looking for him. She was mysterious, beautiful face, with a body like a broomstick. (Hee hee! - ed.) Juan yells that Delfi has to detain them! Please don't let them leave!!!
Por esta boca que se han de comer los gusanos = to be an informer (lit. “this mouth that is going to be eaten by worms” )
efectivo = forceful, effective, also means cash
Al mal paso, darle prisa = No time like the present, do it now and get it over with (lit. hurry up with the bad steps)
Pepino amargoso = sourpuss, suspicious (lit. bitter cucumber)
Pastor weeps to Ivonne that he's selling out the blood of his blood and his best friend, all for a guy and a woman who have always viewed him as just an old rag. He reveals that Anga, somehow aided by Juan, got the Japanese deal. Thanks to his mouth that eats worms they now want Juan's head. And the worst part is, he agreed to help them!
Pau and CL had their roll in the hay and now they're lolling in their scarlet bed. Pau is tepid and said it was 'lovely'. This kind of annoys CL, but he brushes it off, saying the boinking shows they are a couple and have a marriage. Odd logic coming from a player like him.
Ivonne tells Pastor he's a Judas, a traitor. He wails what could he do? The jefes threatened to fire him from the biz. With uncharacteristic lucidity she points out that things will never change and the jefes will never change. Wasn't Juan his pal in good times AND bad? And Pastor would betray his own bro? She says if he chooses Farell over his friend and bro then he'll live to regret it. She advises him to follow his ethics and clean conscience. Pastor weeps at the choice he must make.
Have y'all ever noticed that many of the props associated with CL are of a very, er, vertical nature? The next scene opens with the camera panning up up up his tall cylindrical apartment building to the tippy top of his penthouse. Pau is inside whining to Ana over the phone to help her lie to CL about her trip. She swears it will be the last time. Ha, what a joke. Ana wants no part but Pau ramps up the whining as CL walks in and catches her on the phone. She quickly concludes that she'll be over the pick her ma up. Cl somehow decides that he'll go with Pau and have his chauffeur follow him. Paula doesn't care for this idea but CL insists.
Juan, in short robe and cowboy boots, calls Juanito in Achichipico. While they talk they do the same little nervous habits at the same time...scratching their chins, tapping the chair, etc. Juanito tells his papi he's learning about Pancho Villa in school "and he's just like you dad!" No, not because all the ladies love him, but because he wanted to help the poor. Juanito concludes he's proud to have a papi like Juan.
Pastor and Ivonne are now at work and Pastor tells her he's decided to tell Anga and Juan the truth. Ivonne is afraid if Pastor loses his job it will be her fault. The background piano music that indicates True And Lasting Friendship starts to play. Pastor reassures Ivonne, takes her hand, and tells her that sometimes she is truly astonishing.
Just then the the skinny Julia replacement busts in to announce that the new computers have arrived! Farell is back in business. Time for the massages to stop and the work to begin. (My theory about Julia is that the actress was pregnant in real life and had to leave the show to have her baby, but I digress.)
Pau and CL, followed by his car and chauffeur, arrive at Ana's house. Pau tries to give CL the bum's rush but to her dismay he insists on going in to say hi to Ana.
There is an uncomfortable conversation inside where Ana plays along with Pau's story and CL tells her to take good care of his beloved Paula during their journey to research vegetable pigments. This is too much for Ana and she scoots upstairs to change. CL kisses Pau and tells her AGAIN how much last night meant to him. She can't wait to get him out of the house and shut the door behind him.
Over at Casa Cachón Juan has ants in his pants while Nidia tries to fan away her hot flash. He wants to know why they haven't heard from Pau. Nidia tells him to be patient.
Meanwhile Pau hustles Ana out of the house. Let the pilgrimage begin! Ana says this trip is madness. Pau answers that if she doesn't do this she'll have no peace.
In Achichipico Molo and Herli drive through the streets in a truck decorated with paper flowers. With a large speaker they advertise their beauty contest for the Anthurium Queen. She almost lets him kiss her but they are interrupted by a young beauty who wants to sign up. The swarthy truck driver leers at her.
CL and Moni have a meeting at work and make flirty eyes at each other.
In his office, Pastor adjusts his toupee and sighs that it's time to "hurry up with the bad steps" meaning he'd rather do the dirty deed now and get it over.
Moni asks CL if she can tell him something that will annoy him. He looks at her like "as if I could stop you". She doesn't think Pau told him the truth about her little trip with Ana; she thinks Pau has gone to look for Juan, not vegetable pigments. CL pretends that this doesn't bug him but as soon as Moni leaves she and the rest of the office hear him breaking glass. She smiles...mission accomplished!
Pastor strides up and tells Ivonne to announce him to CL but he changes his mind when CL barks through the phone "No Visitors!!"
Juan urges Nidia to call Paula at Ana's. She tries but gets no answer. Juan becomes agitated, what if Pau and Ana went to his pueblo? Nidia pooh-poohs this idea, Paula do something that emotional? Nah!! They try to call her cellular but it's out of the service area. What now? The light bulb goes on over Juan's head; maybe Pau told Marely her plans!
Nidia says no way will Marely break Paula's confidence. Juan struts and claims that around Achichipico he is known as Juan "The Forceful" (or maybe in this sense it means The Convincer). Nidia counters that Marely is known as Marely "The Incorruptable".
Pau drives and recalls sweet moments with Juan. The viewers will note that for a "common" man he says and does many uncommonly romantic things. Hmmmmph!
Juan and Nidia grab Mari who is suspicious and wants to know why they have been behind closed doors and acting odd since yesterday. Nidia asks why does Mari always have to be a bitter cucumber (sourpuss? suspicious?). Mari insists she'll not betray Pau, no favors, count her out of their plan!
CL goes home and steams. He answers the phone and it's Mari (with Juan the Forceful and Nidia the Persuader on either side). He tells her that Pau and Ana took a spur-of-the-moment trip and won't be back until tomorrow. He squints his eyes suspiciously.
Juan and Nidia clap triumphantly but Mari is mad that they coerced her into participating in their machinations. She stomps off but Juan doesn't notice. He now knows that Pau is headed for Achichipico!!
To be continued...
Mari berates herself to Yadi that she didn't have the courage to cross her arms when that twit (Juan) asked about his little Paula. Yadi cackles that Mari is probably just jealous. Mari denies it and says Juan could have just a little tact. Yadi laughs harder. Juan? He's a man; he doesn't know what tact means. She advises Mari to use her head. Juan won't change, he'll only get worse with time. Mari asks, what if she still loves him? Yadi strongly urges her to forget Juan. She has a new boyfriend, just what she asked for. "Mmmmm, Fer is very nice," agrees Mari, and she's tired of that stupid Juan. It's time to close her heart and start fresh. Yadi agrees, and if Mari follows that path then before she knows it she might find herself in a church on Fer's arm.
Juan tells Kike he needs to go to Achi to find out what's happening. Kike says it will be like always, Juan will end up like dog meat, half-masticated and abandoned. Anyway, what if they meet and Paula vows her undying love? She's married! They discuss some more and Kike sums it up: Pau is a flower and Juan is a cactus, she's a lady and Juan is an apache, she's velvet and Juan is polyester... Ya basta! Juan gets the idea. He claims he can turn himself into an English Lord is that's the game she wants to play.
Mari complains to Nidia that Juan used her, and for her own half sister! She says she wants Pau to be happy, just far away from her.
Since Pastor didn't get a chance to talk to CL earlier he is back to being conflicted. He tells Ivonne he doesn't want to leave Farell, where would he go? Who would have him? Who would hire an old dude like him? He regrets ever opening his big mouth. Ivonne advises him to go home, rest, and face tomorrow with a fresh head.
Juan and Kike are down at the station buying a ticket to Achichipico. Juan leaves tomorrow.
That night Juan dreams that Paula is in prison. It must be porno prison because she's wearing an incredibly sexy striped prison mini-dress and high heels. She breathily tells him she searched for him in every corner of the world. She needs him so very much. The camera in Juan's dream head stares at her cleavage, down to her shapely legs, then back up. She says she's trapped in this prison and only Juan can rescue her. She blows him a kiss.
We see Juan sleeping. Marely sits at his feet in the dark and thought bubbles that she's going to forget him. She's going to fall in love with Fer and start fresh. She almost touches his leg but she pulls back. "Adios Juan" she whispers as she leaves.
The next morning Juan tells Kike that he (Kike) was right last night. Juan could be more polished; Juan needs a hand. Kike laughs, "From me? I'm more naco than you!" Juan tells him there are people who specialize in that sort of thing. He's thinking of going to an Elegance Academy or Charm School and Kike should go too. Kike asks why should he go? He likes being naco. Naco is cool! Juan makes Kike look in the mirror at his bad posture and his oinky belly.
Pau and Ana arrive in Achi which they think is a very precious town. A passer-by offers to take them to Delfina's.
Juan thanks Nidia for all her help. He's off to find Paula. Nidia has a great idea! She'll go with Juan; she's just crazy about these love stories.
Las Davila arrive at Delfi's. Pau tells her they have a mutual friend, Juan Dominguez. She introduces herself and Delfi looks pleasantly impactada to meet Paula Davila.
At Farell, Pastor gives Mari a hard time for being late, but all he really wants to do is pump her for info on Juan. She tells him she and Juan didn't talk much, he was preoccupied with his business. Juan left and she doesn't know where but that's Juan for you; he just disappears. Pastor rubs his chin.
Delfi tells the ladies that Juan isn't around. Paula, her usual insulting self, doesn't believe her. Delfi offers to let her search around if she wants. Paula actually starts to get up until Ana pulls her back down. Delfi approves of Ana's manners but not Paula's. Delfi tells them that Juan left some days ago to visit friends. She doesn't know who; Juan is very enigmatic. Pau looks bothered and Delfi looks pleased.
Juan asks Nidia what if Paula is already in Achi asking around for him? Maybe they should call Delfi to warn her!
Delfi is in the Achi office confiding to Molondrón that she thought it was best not to say anything to Las Davila. The phone rings and it's Juan. Delfi tells him she has one of eight columns (Ocho Columnas), I think she means a news flash. A woman was looking for him. She was mysterious, beautiful face, with a body like a broomstick. (Hee hee! - ed.) Juan yells that Delfi has to detain them! Please don't let them leave!!!
Por esta boca que se han de comer los gusanos = to be an informer (lit. “this mouth that is going to be eaten by worms” )
efectivo = forceful, effective, also means cash
Al mal paso, darle prisa = No time like the present, do it now and get it over with (lit. hurry up with the bad steps)
Pepino amargoso = sourpuss, suspicious (lit. bitter cucumber)
Labels: Juan
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