Caray, Caray!

In order to get this posted, I'm putting it up without final editing, as I have to go do some errands. Please excuse any errors or infelicities of writing, as I was rushing to get something posted.

We start with Alex talking to PM. He tells him that he loves Mili. He never felt anything like it, and he's resigned himself to being unhappy if he can't have her.

Rocky and Bobby prepare to follow Sergio and Val in the car.

Luciana talks to Connie. She says they can't force Alex to marry Andrea. She will give all her shares to her son, if that happens, 'cause she hates Connie. Careful, he says, don't break you'r other leg.

In the office lobby, now Andrea asks Alex what he was talking to PM about. Er, nothing.

Luci tries to get Andrea to reschedule that gyno appointment. Oops, interrupted again, by some men who have come to see Connie.
They are his new security detail--because that maniac Frenchy is out there. They call themselves Agents Red and Black.
They ask him if he suspects anyone would like to harm him--well, get in line! There's Damien, there's his son who hates him, and also his wife. She'd really like to see him suffer.

Luc is trying again to schedule that gyno appointment. Andrea tries to weasel out--she went to her own doctor with Alex, and he said she was five weeks pregnant. Luc asks how can she be so sure it's Alex's baby and not her husband's. It's Alex, Andrea assures her. Luc says Andrea is afraid to go to the other doctor. Andrea says that Luc should be on her side so she won't be a single mom like Luc was. She swears Connie is not the father--there was nothing between them.

Bobby is driving Rocky in a convertible while Rocky lets loose with some class-warfare hilarity--ha ha, the rich boy is his chauffeur. Rich boy says he's not the chauffeur--he's only following that lowlife (ganan) Sergio.

Now Rocky lets loose with something else, causing more nonstop hilarity as Bobby frantically waves away the fumes. Looks like their chilaquiles and enchiladas have given both boys a bad case of turista. They have to stop the car and can't continue the chase.

Luciana is bed and Connie comes in. She voices her doubts about the "baby"'s parentage. Don't worry, it's Alex's, Connie tells her--after Val was born, he had a vasectomy!
He says that he gave Alex a life and a name. Luc should not let Andrea live the same life and scandal that Luc managed to avoid.

Alex sees Mili in the hall and is overcome with the need to make out. They go into his room.

Mom comes by on crutches about to knock on the door, but she stops herself and goes to Andrea's room. She has decided to take Andrea's side 'cause Mili is worse.

Here's a scene I found a bit disturbing. Alex is crazy for Mili and jumps on top of her. Mili cries "no, no" and sounds very scared.

Andrea thanks Luc for her help. Don't thank me, Luc says--I still hate you. Andrea says she'll make her son happy. Luc tells her "shut up, you hypocrite--you just want to improve your position. You show me wwhat a harpy you are. I only care about my forthcoming grandchild, not you." Anyway, they have to get rid of Mili, as that infeliz is capable of anything.

Mili and Alex again. She is going to condemn him to a life without her. She slaps him and he comes to his senses. He begs forgiveness and says he went crazy. She hugs him. Then she's going to leave the room, but she comes back and kisses him some more.

Horacio tries to woo Socorro in the kitchen, but he is foiled by Rocky, who needs a remedy for his stomachache.

Luc is looking for Mili in the dorm. Lina tells her that Mili has a headache and is sleeping, but weaselly Karla reveals that Mili is not there. Lina is disgusted by Karla's disloyalty and says that she knows when she turns the light on the cockroaches will scurry away. (Anyway, didn't Luc know where Mili was? She was listening at the door!)

Luc catches Mili in Alex's room and there's a big shouting match.

Hugo and Andrea plot.

Luc reminds Alex that he's going to be a father. She heard everything in the hall
They can't have a scandal--he must marry Andrea. Alex says he's changed his mind. He'll marry who he wants. Luc says he's going to spend his life running after servants.
This is enough for him--he throws his mother out of the room.

Karla shows her mother some perfume and other things. Socorro wonders where she's gotten the money. Karla reveals that Connie gave it to her. Soco is appalled--he's a married man. Karla tells her not to worry--it's just a business deal. Soco thinks she should throw the stuff in the trash.

Alex now cries to Granny that his mom is pressuring him to marry. Granny is determined to reverse the course of history. She tells him to follow his heart--
he can be a good father, but he doesn't have to marry Andrea.

Braulio brings Regina a magazine. She sends him to fetch Luciana.

Damien interrupts Karla while she is making beds. He seems to call her a cheap "ramera," but I can't find a translation. He heard her talking to her mother, and he's disturbed that she traded him in for Constancio. What a swain! She tells him to get lost.

Braulio finds Luc and tells her to go see Regina, but Luc first goes to talk to Mili. Mili is hurt. She thought Luc was on her side. Luc reveals that no, Mili is a zorra, a trepadora, and for good measure, an infeliz. (that is, a trollop, a climber, and an "unhappy one," or, more idiomatically, an unfortunate wretch, but often used as it is here with a negative context, as an insult to the person's character.

What was Mili doing in her son's bed? Mili says that Luc is wrong about her. Nope, she's just a servant. Mili points out that Regina loves her and that's why Luc hates her. Moreover, Luc can't forget that other servant . . . Ouch, the truth hurts. Luc slaps Mili. That hurts too!

Luc finally meets with Regina. Regina wants to know what gives Luc the right to pressure Alex. Regina thinks Luc wants Andrea to avoid the shame that Luc had. But Regina says, what's so bad if Andrea is a single mom just like you were. Loose lips sink ships--Alex overhears at the doorway. We see his impactado eyes as we cut to commercial.

Damien and Karla talk some more about how Connie will pay.

Frenchy rants Death to Connie on a dirty mattress while he watches a slasher film on TV in his fleabag motel room.

Now back to the important stuff: Alex comes in an asks: You were a single mother, Mom? Oh, she tries to wriggle out. I was in Paris, er, Regina comes in for the save: Your mother and father were having a fight while she was pregnant, so she went to Paris. Just one of those silly little things. Once again, Alex in denial, leaves sort of satisfied with the answer. Luciana thanks Regina for saving her with her active imagination.

Here I was a little confused. Regina seemed to be encouraging Luc to tell Alex the truth finally--the truth that his father is a crazy that has been locked up for years--because now he's escaped and can come there to do harm at any moment. It seems to me from hearing some of this that the reason they were hiding the truth is that Frenchy is crazy rather than for the single-mother shame reason.


Back to Regina. She tells Luc that all these years she never interfered in anything--she was just an ornament. Why is she meddling now? Regina says the reason Luc took to drinking was the bad relationship. Don't repeat history--let Alex marry who he wants. Luciana protests that Granny doesn't understand--Alex is having a "baby." (A little while ago, Luc was intent on having that pregnancy test confirmed. Seems like she has given up that idea now that she thinks the danger of Alex's marrying a servant is even greater!) Regina says that Alex can be a good father--why make him marry a woman he doesn't love.

Luciana reminds her that she did it with her own son. Constancio has never let her forget it. Luciana says that Andrea must pay the price that she paid all these years. That Luc is one mixed-up girl.

Mili is now chatting with the twins. Last night was the first time she ever felt love/sex, whatever. She resisted, but he wouldn't stop kissing her--nothing mattered but that they should keep kissing. The girls egg her on to go all the way--'cause like Sor Cachete told them, the first time should be with someone you love. Mili reminds them that SC also said they should wait for marriage. Oh, she's just a nun--what does she know? Well, Mili is more realistic. Her dream is over. She knows that Alex is the love of her life, and she may never love another. Lina says that's all the more reason to do it with Alex--so he can be her first. This is supremely dumb, I'm sure you'll all agree.

Alex is crying on Regina's shoulder. His mom and pop were so unhappy. Now he's going to repeat history. Granny tells him that he doesn't have to be so unhappy.

Damien is at the fleabag with French. Frenchy now has more dialogue than we've heard before. He says that Constancio stole his son, and he wants to see his son. Demonstrating his enormous brainpower and the foolproof nature of his scheme, Damien gives Frenchy a gun. Have patience he counsels our madman--you must wait till the right time, then take care and make sure you kill Connie.

Regina is rehashing with Connie. She reminds him that Alex thinks Connie is his real father. Connie wonders why, as they were married two years after he was born. My thoughts exactly! (At least this information explains that there is an age difference between Mili and Alex. I was confused at the beginning of the series because it seemed that Alex and Mili were around the same age and that Constancio had married Luciana while she was pregnant to cover up the shame while he left his own girlfriend pregnant at the same time.)
There is some more discussion about taking the secret to their grave--but Frenchy wants to reveal all.

Mili is now in Alex's room waiting in his bed. It appears that she is ready to take her friends' bad advice. Alex comes in and doesn't see her at first, as it's dark. He puts on the light and looks in the mirror and sees her that way. She stays she can't stop "thinking" of him (meaning loving him, as I understand this idiom). She remembers what he said last night--she loves him and he loves her. She wants to be with him. No, he says--they shouldn't make a mistake. He seemed desperate last night, but he really loves her truly. He doesn't want her just for a night, but for a whoel life. She would be his wife, the mother of his children. They would sleep together and wake together all the nights. It's so romantic. Ahem.

Okay, it's impossible, Mili says. He says that nothing is impossible if they fight together. (why don't they get that pregnancy test, the dolts!)

They remember the kermes marriage. Mili calls it the marriage of lies. Alex says they should now have a honeymoon of lies. She will sleep in his arms all night, but they will just hug each other. This is kind of sweet, but don't they lock the doors? In the morning, Andrea comes into the room and catches them.

She says how dare he spend the night with this floozie. He says they didn't do anything, and anyway, she can't talk to Mili that way. She tells Mili to "Shut up, you unhappy dead fly." There's lots of name calling and hair pulling. Mili says she will call the police on Andrea. Finally, Alex asks her to leave. She is upset that he is taking Andrea's side (ya think?). He says he only wants peace. Another dumb play by Alex!

Mili leaves. Now Alex tells Andrea that she will never be the woman Mili is. Mili is not arrogant, doesn't humiliate others, and by the way, they were only hugging. He tells Andrea that they have a better love, a love for the ages--one that doesn't need sex! We had only the warmth of our bodies next to each other, he adds--something Andrea obviously never had.

Andrea runs out . . . and talks to Luciana, of course.

They call each other hypocrites, but you know, they need each other . . . Andrea demands that Luciana do something to stop that servant. Luciana says that the day before she tried to talk to Alex, but he wouldn't listen. They can't get rid of Mili, 'cause Regina won't let her go. They have to think of something.

Avances: Mili accidentally pushes Andrea down the stairs. How sad--our paragon of maternal warmth is going to lose the fake baby so soon!

Labels: guapos

Well, this novella certainly keeps you guessing. We start with the angry townspeople demanding the money that Alcides owed them from the Obregons. Lucas tries to make nice but Ester shows her true colors and the crowd gets ugly. Soledad comes out and promises to pay them but explains that Alcides' money is missing from the bank and she doesn't have any cash. The crowd doesn't buy that.

Meanwhile, Boris orders some false identification papers for Hugo and discovers that Marina stole the ring from Soledad. Marina says that she stole the ring because Soledad hurt Hugo. Boris insists that she return it.

The mood of the crowd at the Obragon house gets uglier and uglier. Paquito arrives to see what is going on. Finally, the mob decides to get payment for what they are owed by taking objects from the house and storm the house. Chaos ensues and even Paquito takes a punch before Boris arrives and holds the crowd at gunpoint.

A great deal of silliness goes on between Enrico and Los Burques. Enrico eventually escapes only to fall into the hands of Rebeca and Hercules. (Where did they get that net they caught Enrico with? They didn't bring it with them and how did they manage to set it up in the one place Enrico would pass?) As one would expect from them, they try to beat the information out of him.

Eloisa goes to see Arturo in prison. She promises that she and Paquito will help him get out of prison and restore his good name.

At the hospital, the police are very suspicious of Hugo especially since he doesn't have any identification papers. However, the doctor claims to know him and the police leave.

At the Obregon house, Boris offers to lend Soledad money to pay Alcides' debts. Soledad accepts and the mob puts down the stuff they have grabbed.

The doctor in the hospital can tell that Hugo is suffering. Hugo says that he has come to the conclusion that love is a lie. He tells the doctor that he loved a woman he thought was pure and sincere and for the first time he opened his heart to love but she betrayed him with his brother. At this point, the doctor is called away when Beatriz stops breathing. Hugo goes into meditation posture!

The doctor tries heart massage with no success until Hugo employs a foot pressure technique he learned in the Orient and Beatriz is back with the living! He tells the doctor to do whatever is necessary so that Beatriz lives.

At the Obragon house, Marina pays the creditors. I guess Boris had enough on him to cover it. Finally, Marina is forced to confess that she took the ring. She doesn't apologize for doing so, however. Ester is vindictive, of course, but Beatriz gives the ring to her. Boris, Marina, Soledad and Ursula go to the Hacienda Montenegro to get valuable objects to cover what Boris advanced to her.

At the Hacienda, Soledad decides to sign over the whole place to Boris. Ursula is disgusted, Marina is triumphant and Boris is confused. Boris wants to refuse but Marina convinces him that Soledad is really returning the Hacienda to its rightful owner - Hugo.

Paquito blackmails the District Attorney to release Arturo.

At the hospital, Hugo urges the unconscious Beatriz to wake up so she can get better. The doctor says that she can't hear him but Hugo says he knows otherwise. When Hugo and the doctor leave, we find out that Beatriz is awake and she bribes the nurse to make it appear that she is dying.

Soledad finds that stupid gun of Hugo's in a drawer. Neither Boris nor Marina can offer any explanation of how it got there. Soledad doesn't pursue the matter but she takes the gun.

Los Burques rescue Enrico and find the next clue to the treasure in a seashell in the Hacienda presumably while Soledad et al are downstairs . Enrico gives Los Burques the slip.
As Soledad et al are leaving the Hacienda, they hear noises and go back inside and find Los Burques.

Finally, we see what Beatriz was about and you were right JB, she has more brain damage. She will pretend to be dying and beg Hugo to marry her as her final wish.

It looks like wedding bells on Monday and then Beatriz gets kidnapped by Fabio.

Labels: la traicion

Ahoy all, Thank you for your patience on this late post!

We left off yesterday with Juan surprising Molondrón with his announcement that he plans to return to the DF. Molo answers that he figured sooner or later Juan would do just that. Molo supposes it's because Juan wants to enjoy the fruits of his labors, but Juan rejects that idea. He says the shrimp who sleeps wakes up in a cocktail. He tells Molo not to forget the old Chinese proverb, the important thing is to finish the job, not just to try to do it. Molo counters by advising Juan he who spreads himself thin doesn't do a good job at anything. He thinks Juan has become too ambitious. Juan says he just wants to explore new horizons for the sake of Achichipico. He denies he's going for any other reason. No really. He mumbles that anyway it's too late, "that love" will never be recouped.

Paula tries to convince Anga to spend money in order to expand his enterprise. There is another business they should consider acquiring, others are interested, but Angarita needs to strike first. Anga surprises Paula by declaring he wants to talk it over with Juan Dominguez.

Over at Farell Monica is advising CL that it's now or never. This business, "Campeony", is reviewing offers and clearly Farell isn't the only company interested. CL complains that they are just now paying off all their debts and they have no capital, but what the heck, it might be a good idea to acquire another company. Moni thinks it's a great idea but they have less than two days to make their proposal.

Anga calls Juan in Achi. What a coincidence, Juan was just thinking about him! In fact he plans to return to Mexico City. Anga says great, he needs to talk to Juan about the business opportunity of a lifetime, not on the phone but in person, and calmly. (Of course this is silly because with Juan's propensity for delay and escapade it could take him a week to get to the DF, but I digress.)

Fer presses Marely to leave work early so they can prep for their wedding...this weekend! He wonders when Mari plans to tell her family. Mari hedges, Nidia is in AA, she's waiting for the right moment, maybe it's a good idea to wait until the last minute. Fer has invited their friends from the office but sworn them to secrecy (fat chance!), all except Pastor whom he feels obligated to invite but hasn't yet. He declares his love for Mari and skips off. She looks slightly less enthusiastic.

Juanito, who should be doing his homework, is happily drawing a heart and dreaming of his beloved Maestra. Papi interrupts to discuss someting serious, they are going to live in the capital. Juanito is not thrilled. He'll miss his friends, his school...and Maestra Teresita.

Molo and Herlinda are enjoying a couple of cold ones at the outdoor cafe. She's all made up and looking like a woman instead of some overgrown doll. Molo has a great idea, they'll throw a grand fiesta for the whole town!

Juanito sadly sits at the foot of his bed. There is a knock on the door and his beloved maestra enters. She urges him to go with his papa. She says she'll never forget him. Juanito vows, with a wink and a chuck to her chin, that he'll return when he's older. Maestra Teresita laughs and promises to wait.

Delfina's got the blues because the boys are leaving. She says all men eventually leave her. Juan suggests she get married, maybe to that stubborn old coot Aldemar. Delfina vows never and goes to her room to sulk.

Speaking of the king of Rome, who should arrive to say goodbye but Don Aldemar and son Tweedle Heribierto. Don A has heard that Juan is leaving for the DF and he wants him to take his blockhead of a son with him and turn him into a responsible man. Juan doesn't like the idea and Tweedle likes it less, but Juan reluctantly agrees.

After the commercial break there is a notice on the screen: "Gratitude to Xochitlán de Vicente Suárez, Pueblo." This must be the real life town of Achichipico! Check it out here.

The church bells ring and the camera pans down over the lovely marketplace of Achi. Juan thought bubbles that he packed his bags that very night and the next morning was about to leave his people, his town, to cure his wounds and realize his dream to stop being Mr. Nobody. That morning the entire town came to say goodbye to him and Heribierto, sad to see Juan go and happy that Tweedle was going with him. They say their goodbyes in front of a huge banner that reads "Juan Dominguez, Pride of Achichipico."

Herlinda says goodbye and thanks Juan for helping her find her true love. He thought bubbles that this time he leaves Achi not as a criminal, but as a hero.

Meanwhile in the DF, CL and Paula enjoy an uncharacteristically cordial breakfast. They each want to brag about their jobs but neither wants to divulge details to the competition. CL is the first to break. He says Farell is on the verge of buying up a noteworthy business called "Campeony." Pau (very stupidly) admits this is the same company with which Anga is negotiating.

This news sets CL off and they begin their first of the day's arguments. He says she should back off from pursuing the alliance. She disagrees of course. He tells her she's playing with her marriage because what's his is hers. She's not impressed. She admits that going after Campeony was her idea and she intends to win. CL accepts the challenge and points out he's not accustomed to losing. He declares war. Pau says that's his term, not hers, but she's not afraid. CL tells her that at the end of the day they'll see who laughs and who cries. He gives her a kiss-off and leaves. Paula rolls her eyes and looks determined.

As Juanito enjoys the scenery from the bus Juan thought bubbles that the first time he went to the DF he was a Don Nadie with a heart full of illusions, now he returns triumphant but with an empty heart, defeated by a love that can never be. And what of his Palomita?

Palomita is pissed off and vents to Anga about her morning battle with CL. Imagine her surprise when CL told her Farell was going after the same business! Anga is concerned how this will affect Paula's marriage. Is it worth it? Pau answers that if she backs off it will be worse for the marriage than if she goes for it. "And are we going to win?" asks Anga? "Until the last drops of blood are shed on the street," she adamantly answers. (I think that's what she said.) She admits that yes, maybe there is competition between her and CL. (Ya think?)

Moni visits CL in his office. She's brought her first stab at a proposal for Campeony and it's a good one, none better. CL tells her to sit down, they aren't the only ones interested in Campeony. He lights a cigarette and we all know what that means, he's about to pop. He tells here there is another party interested and it's not just anyone. It's Paula. Moni is very, but very impactada.

Outside CL's Office of Smoke and Anger Mari tells Fer she has to pick up her wedding dress. Has he invited Don Pastor yet? No, has she invited her Mama yet? No. (I don't know about these two. Are they really adults?)

Moni gripes about Pau wanting their business. CL tells her wanting is one thing and getting is another. Nobody, but nobody has beat him yet in negotiating a business and Pau won't be the first. Paula and Anga are not going to win. Period.

Over at Casa Cachón Yadi catches Mari holding up her wedding dress in front of the mirror. Que the hell is going on? Mari admits she's getting married tomorrow. Yadi is so impactada and her curls jiggle so much I fully expect the butterflies to fly right off of her head.

CL summons Pastor. He wants Pastor to find out what proposal Anga and Pau plan to make to Campeony. Pastor is aghast, that's called industrial espionage! And how can they go against their own wife and brother? CL doesn't want to be bothered with legal terms. He gave an order, that's it. Pastor decides it's a good time to bring up the subject of his raise. CL tells him this is the time for Pastor to show he deserves it. Pastor, the world's worst negotiator, dolefully leaves the office.

Yadi hugs Mari, congratulates her on her happy news, and asks why the mystery? Mari admits she couldn't bring herself to tell Nidia. Yadi agrees that was for the best but Mami has to find out sometime, and soon. Yadi's idea is to get Nidia to the church under some pretext then spring the news on her. Mari points out the wedding will be a civil service in a restaurant. Even better, says Yadi, they'll go out to eat and then tell Ma. She says of course Nidia will never forgive Mari. Not for the secrecy, but rather for Mari's choice in dresses; she holds up the simple dress and frowns. Uh oh, we can only guess what "improvements" Yadi might suggest.

Kike is over at Fer's place. Fer pulls out the good tequila and proposes a toast to love. Kike thinks Fer is making fun of his own dismal relationship but Fer spills the beans...he's getting married! "To Marely?" asks Kike? "No, to Pastor Gaytan," laughs Fer, "Of course to Marely!" They commence their shots and Kike is concerned that Mari still doesn't know about Fer and Nidia. Fer doesn't want to blow the best thing he's ever had in his life for a mere slip, something that was a simple error. Kike advises Fer that these things always come out.

Anga is busy at home working on the proposal. Pastor sidles up feigning magnanamous interest, can he do anything to help? Anga immediately knows Pastor's angle. He gathers up his papers and calls Pastor a traitor, a spy, Cain! He throws wadded up balls of paper at Pastor's head and tells him to tell CL to keep his nose out of his business! Anga goes back to work in disgust as Pastor tries to peer at the paperwork from the far side of the room.

The next morning Pau and Ana are at the airport. Pau tells Ana goodby, have a fun trip to Miami, and too bad you're going to miss Marely's wedding today. Ana is muy impactada. She disapproves of Mari's secrecy and is just as glad to miss the fireworks when Nidia finds out.

Over at Casa Cachón Nidia, in various animal prints, answers the phone. She's thrilled to hear her good friend Aniuska. Is Aniuska already in Miami? No, Aniuska is calling to tell Nidia something important. "You have a lover at last?" exclaims Nidia. When Ana finally gets a word in she tells Nidia that Pau confessed to her that Mari and Fer are getting married in secret that very day!

Yadi takes Mari to the salon for a hair and makeup job. I think it's the same salon where Pastor took Juan for his haircut. It must be the only one in Mexico City. Yadi tells the stylist he has to do something, Mari looks like marble. "Oh worse, she looks dead," the stylist gushes.

For some reason Topete is in Delirio's office "working". I think we all know why he's there on a Saturday. After some discussion Delirio tells Topete to leave, no need to work on Saturday especially since they have no clients. As Topete leaves he runs into Kike and they have words. First they argue about the use of the word impel vs. impede, then Kike accuses 'Topetillo' of trying to run into Yadi. Topete accuses Kike of being macho and not knowing how to treat a woman. He concludes that when Yadi needs a person to listen he will be there as her friend...and teacher.

Moni and Gustavo are spending this fine Saturday morning in the sack. He tells her he loves her more each time, with her he feels happy and complete. He wants to feel that way always. Dear Lord is this man an improvement over CL or what? CL who?

The Achichipico trio have arrived in the big city with their cow-hide luggage. Tweedle has a stiff neck and complains about the ride. Juan and Jito can't wait to get rid of this guy and tell him he's on his own now. When Tweedle whines Juan accuses him of being a big fraidy cat. He straightens out Tweedle's neck and orders him to stay, orders are orders! He and Jito leave Tweedle standing glumly by his moo-luggage.

Yadi is thrilled at Mari's new look. Yikes, she looks like a Geisha! OMG, the stylist says the exact same thing, that she looks like a Geisha but blonde.

Tweedle catches up with the Juans, he doesn't want to be left behind. Juanito feels sorry and tells Papi to bring him along. Juan worries about bringing this big ape to Casa Cachón.

Pau, getting ready for the wedding, gripes to CL that none of her dresses fit her, she's fat. (Grrrrrr.) They decide to pass the time by getting into another argument about Campeony. CL says they will be allies in love and enemies in business, and they'll see who wins.

Juan and Jito drop Tweedle off at a shady-looking hotel and advise him not to spend his money on unnecessary items. Tweedle tries to follow but the desk clerk, behind bars, calls him back. (What do we want to bet he heads right out for the nearest pool hall?)

The Cachón sisters arrive home to a furious Nidia. No, she's not mad about Mari's atrocious makeup. She demands to know exactly when was Marely planning to tell her about her marriage to Fernando?

Tomorrow: Marely looks like a Geisha in shock and Nidia gives an ultimatum.


Camaron que se duerme amanece en coctel = The shrimp who sleeps wakes up in a cocktail
Lo importante no es llegar, sino mantenerse = The important thing is to finish the job, not just try to do it. (Lit. The important thing is not to arrive, but to support oneself.)
Quien mucho abarca poco aprieta = Don't bite off more than you can chew, don't spread yourself too thin (Lit. He who covers a lot pushes himself too little)

Labels: Juan

[Again--comments and additions welcome. Sorry for the lateness all you guys who love to read recaps with your wheaties. I didn't get home until 10 pm last night.]

The show opens with Uriel and Mateo in Jorge’s office talking over how they will handle the contraband. Uriel will sell it at his store and to make contact with Romero Castillo to tell him that Juancho will be his supplier now. Jorge emphasizes that nobody is to know that he is involved. Uriel and Mateo give eachother long looks but agree. Jorge tells them not to forget that they are involved with pirates, who kill without thinking too much about it.
At Ric’s, Eustaquio, the court official rolls up and tells Ric that Camila is called to the court to answer the summons for the inheritance case. Ric tells him right away that she’s out of town. Eustaquio says all well and good for him to show up instead but she must be there for the hearing.

At Pirate central, La Paisana is giving the boys the bad news that most of them are being laid off. She tells them that it’s not her decision, it’s Foreman’s. They are not happy. One guy wants to know why they can’t just continue robbing caravans. She says she doesn’t know. Juancho wants to know why they are getting rid of people if they are going to continue robbing caravans and she tells him that they are but they just aren’t going to need that many people. As a symbol of her authority she carries a stick with ribbons tied to it. El Chino (AKA “Jo-si-he”) shows up and says that whoever has family to support can come with him to work The rest can climb aboard his ship “the manderin—la manderina” and he’ll take them as far as the coral islands. He’s still dressed in Eastern style clothing and his second in command is as well. (If he wants people to know he’s Japanese and not Chinese, he’s probably not helping by calling his ship the Manderin). The men still don’t like this outcome. One guy shouts the question of what they will do there. El Chino says they can find another captain or other work. Juancho isn’t happy. He says that it looks like Foreman is betraying them. He blames El Chino who he calls (again) a “Chinese pig.” El Chino tells him to shut up and urges him to respect him, even if he is of another race, he’s still a captain. Juancho spits at him in response and says make me. Paisana intrudes to say that it’s not Chino’s fault. The business has always belonged to the Englishman and he’s chosen to do things this way and has chosen El Chino to carry out his wishes (a decision which she agrees with). Juancho won’t back down and El Chino asks him how he wants to settle it. Juancho immediately pulls out his long knife or short sword and the men draw back to watch them fight. El Chino has a Katana and fights Samurai style. He makes short work of Juancho, slitting his throat.

Next we are at the forge where the twins are talking to eachother. They think that the Don Jorge connection could help the business. Santiago is explaining to them that he doesn’t want to have anything to do with Don Jorge. Ofelia shows up and greets them. She takes Santiago aside and asks what Dona Sofia wanted. He explains that she tried to convince him to take his place as Jorge’s heir because it would be good for the people. Ofelia asks him what he told her and he says that he told her he wasn’t interested. They turn to talk about the baptism of his daughter. Santiago tells her that he hasn’t decided who the godparents should be. Ofelia smiles, probably pleased that it won’t be Jorge and Sofia. She kisses him and leaves.

Next, at the Mill, Vasco is getting paid by a customer when Ascanio comes up and asks to speak with him. Ascanio asks how the mill is going. Vasco says great. And he asks after Santiago. He thinks his brother in law is a dork for trying to start a lantern business when he could be the next lord of San Fernando. Ascanio tells him that he’s not really there to talk about that—rather he’s there to tell him what an idiot he is for fooling around with (that whore) Ursula. Vasco starts to ask what business is it of his but Ascanio cuts in to say that he couldn’t care less about him, but about his father and his wife, he does care. Vasco accuses him of being sent by his father. Ascanio says he’s not there because of his father. He says that Justo talked to him about it because he was upset and afraid. Ascanio brings up the letter again and tells him that Ric has sent his sister abroad. Vasco figures out that he must have done it because she is in danger. Ascanio returns to the discussion of Vasco’s skirt chasing by saying that he doesn’t understand why he allows himself to be a plaything of a woman who wants him only because she has nothing better to do. Vasco replies that Ascanio is the one who doesn’t understand he turns around to face him and yells “Haven’t you ever had passion in your life?” Just then Ric rides up on horseback. Vasco runs up and asks if it’s true that Camila has fled and if so why. Ric confirms it. He tells him that his “stupidity has born fruit” and that LaFont turned the letter in to the judge. You condemned your own sister.” He hauls off and slaps Vasco so hard he falls to the ground. Ascanio steps in and asks for restraint. Vasco gets up and says he sure that something can be done. Ric flips him off and gets back on his horse and rides away. Vasco tells Ascanio that he was soooo sure that the letter had been destroyed. Ascanio says archly that it seem that he was wrong and walks away. Vasco is left standing there forlornly contemplating his guilt.

In an odd bit of editing after the commercial, Vasco is now following Ric back to Justo’s house and trying to argue with him that it may not be all that bad but Ric has no patience for him and tells him to just shut up or he’ll kill him. Justo spreads his arms out like a martyr and says “Kill me then. I deserve it.” Ric looks at him in surprise. Pirates don’t often get that offer. Just then Paco runs out and affectionately greets his Uncle Ric. Ric pats the boy’s head and greets him and then turns and gives Vasco a dark look and walks toward the house. Paco takes a look at Vasco and asks “What’s wrong Daddy? Vasco says “Nothing.” Paco insists “Why are you crying?” Vasco hugs Paco.

Next we are in the town square with La Font talking to the Eustaquio, the judicial official who is briefing him on the fact that Camila has left San Fernando. They discuss how this seems to be too much of a coincidence. Eustaquio tells him that Ric said that he will be at the hearing and LaFont asks if that’s legal and Eustaquio says that as her husband, it’s fine for him to be there but she will have to show up at some point. He doesn’t like it and this new twist is worrying to him. He leaves LaFont standing there, looking like he’s planning his next move.

At the forge, the twins, Ascanio and Santiago are looking at the new wagon, the twins are elated and one of them remarks that it’s very fine looking and will help them sell a lot of lanterns. When they take the wagon away, Santiago turns to Ascanio and asks him why he looks so glum. Ascanio explains that the ED letter has surfaced and Camila is being hauled into court. Santiago is impactado. (Or else he has an attack of dyspepsia—hard to tell.)

LaFont fills the ladies in on Camila’s disappearance. Fran is sure that Ric loaded her on one of his ships with the inheritance and managed her escape. LaFont says the hearing is tomorrow. Lis immediately panics that she’ll have to face Ric and LaFont is quick to suggest that she’s afraid of him, working the pirate angle. Lis counters that she isn’t really afraid of him, it’s just that she’s known him a long time and it will be painful to confront him. LaFont asks if he’s really her cousin. Lis says he’s not—he’s just been a long time friend of the family. LaFont asks if he’s a friend of Ricardo de Salamanca, the pirate. Lis says, yes, they knew eachother. LaFont says they have nothing to worry about, he’ll be with him.

At Justo’s, Petronella the servant is pouring the watermelon juice and Ines, Vasco, Paco and Ric are all at the table. Justo says he’s a little upset that Ric has sent Camila away alone. Ric says that’s why he came to explain. Ines asks if she’s alright. Ric pauses and Vasco asks Petronella to take Paco away. Paco complains but Vasco insists. He complains some more and Justo brings the hammer down and Paco obeys. After they leave Ric brings them up to speed—LaFont killed Bernabe, took the ED letter and gave it to the judge. Ines is shocked. Ric says that Camila didn’t tell him because she was worried about his health. Justo says no way, he wants to know everything that’s going on. Ric tells them he wants them to get it from him that Lis is trying to break the will with the letter, making Camila’s marriage null and void. Vasco tries to explain Bernabe stole the letter from him. He was about to destroy the letter when he ran away. Ric shuts him up and continues that he sent Camila out of New Spain in order to protect her. He tells Justo again that Camila was afraid that Justo couldn’t take the news but Ric reiterates his belief that Justo is a man of strong will who can deal with the realities, whatever they are. Justo says with tears in his eyes that Camila has had to flee because she spent her money trying to save the family fortunes. Ric says, no, that he never thought that they would have to leave. It’s just until he can get together the money to pay Lis back. Ines expresses surprise that he doesn’t have them money. Ric explains that he’s been robbed. Justo turns to Vasco and tells him that he wants him out of the house. Vasco begs for forgiveness but Justo says he’s tired of his son’s lies and false promises. He pleads with his dad but Justo is firm in telling him to GET OUT! Vasco tearfully gets up from the table. Ric puts his hand on Justo’s shoulder. Ines looks miserable and nervously twists her lip.

Over at Ofelia’s, the family is doing some housework and Ascanio is filling them all in about Camila. Ascanio hopes that Ric and Lis can reach some kind of agreement. Santiago blames Vasco, Rita blames Camila for marrying the old dude. Santiago defends Camila saying that it was her only hope of returning home. He tells her he doesn’t understand her lack of empathy, her unjust hatred for her own sister. He tells her that he never wants her to utter Camila’s name in his presence again. He storms off. Ascanio excuses himself and follows. Rita, is all full of ‘tude, comes over to Ofelia and says “Mother, she asked for it.”[It’s also possible that she said “he asked for it”—I couldn’t hear it well, in which case she meant Santiago started the fight] Ofelia says nothing and slaps her across the face. [Works in either case!]

Ascanio runs after Santiago. Ascanio tries to calm him down but Santiago pulls away and heads off in another direction. Ascanio looks exasperated.

Justo is laying across his made bed, fully dressed when he hears a knock at the door. It’s Ines, with his medicine. She asks if when Justo kicked out Vasco, if he meant her too. Justo says no, this is her house. Justo muses that Vasco will probably just stay at the mill. And since Dad’s an old softie, eventually, he’ll let him come back to live at the house. It’s just at the moment, he’s so angry at him, he doesn’t even want to look at him.

Ric rides up to his house. He pats his two trusty pirates working the gate, on the back but says nothing, clearly dispirited. [The handsome one who played Frank on Duelo de Pasiones, whose name here escapes me and another one.] One guy says to the other that the boss is clearly feeling down. The other guy remarks that it may be because his woman is gone. The other guy says “no, it’s more than that.”

Inside the house, Ric takes off his jacket and sword and plops in a chair, then on the bed. He flashbacks to his promises to Camila as she was leaving that he would fix everything. He swears aloud in the present that HE WILL fix everything, come what may.

At the tavern, a plump tavern wench is singing, a band is playing, soldiers are drinking and playing cards and Uriel is waiting for Don Jorge. The wench flirts with Uriel and Don Jorge while singing and as they watch her Jorge tells Uriel that he wants him to carry Santiago’s new spring collection of lanterns at his store. Uriel asks why, since Santiago has dissed him and Jorge just had him thrown in jail. Jorge says that he wants to help him and his wife persuaded him that it was the right thing to do. Uriel says that he’ll send for him. Jorge says it would be better for Uriel to go to see him. Uriel isn’t happy with this and wants to know why he should do the stooping. Jorge says he’s asking him to and Uriel relents. Jorge brings up the subject of Manuela and Uriel admits that Alberto is against it. Jorge suggests that he’s open to his marrying Ursula. Uriel is surprised but gladly accepts the idea. Jorge ever the ladies’ man, turns to look at the wenches who are taking their bows after the singing.

At Justo’s, Ines is crying at what looks like a combination sideboard/family altar (there is a saint statue and a pitcher of water). Ascanio comes in and she hastily turns away to leave mumbling something about getting Paco a glass of milk. Ascanio notes that she is a blessing for this family. [I couldn’t catch the next thing she says either] He asks about Vasco and Ines said that he left the house last night. She cries and tells him about the letter—Ascanio says he knows. He gets a chair and sits down with her. Ines says she was surprised that Ric didn’t have the money to pay Lis and Ascanio explains that he lost it all when the caravan was robbed. Ines is horrified and asks how could Vasco have done such a thing. Ascanio reassures her that he couldn’t have known the extent of the complications that would come in the wake of doing …this stupid thing. [he hesitates on the words, like he’d like to use stronger ones but for Ines’ sake.] Ines cries some more. Ascanio tries to reassure her some more that Ric will fix everything eventually. Ines says she knows but she’s worried about Vasco. His Dad told him he never wants to see him again. Ascanio says he’s sure that they will patch things up eventually. Ines cries that Vasco is like a little boy. Ascanio parts company with her on that—“Paco is a little boy. Vasco is a man.” Justo comes in and Ascanio makes to get up and go but Justo motions for him to stay and asks Ines if she’s told him. She nods. Justo says that he’s happy that he’s there and puts a hand on his shoulder. Ascanio agrees and looks at Ines, a bit wistfully. [Coulda Shoulda Woulda, lady. You’d be married to Santiago’s good-looking future employee of the month once those lanterns start flying off of Uriel’s shelves. ]

At Mansion Mancera, Fortunata and Ursula are drinking coffee while Sofia is sorting her jewelry. Ursula happens to mention that on a previous occasion she overheard Lis complaining about how neither she (Ursula) nor Camila were going to take Ric away from her. Fortunata remarks that Camila managed to do it. Ursula continues laughing about how instead of a young, virile guy, she’s going to have to get used to old LaFont. Fortunata disagrees and counters that LaFont is a gentleman and still has some charms. Ursula says fresh meat (carne) is not the same as old skin (pellejo). Sofia looks disapprovingly. Just then Jorge comes in and notes that the younger women seem to be having a good time but not Sofia, who rolls her eyes. Ursula says they were talking about Lis and LaFont. “Speaking of weddings,” says Jorge, “I’ve got a husband for you.” She looks stricken. He tells her it’s Uriel. Fortunata says “but he’s young and not ugly.” The only thing that Ursula can think of to complain about is his facial hair. Jorge says no problem, we can order him to shave. He shakes his head at her and leaves. Ursula pleads with her mother to stop this wedding. Sofia says that she told Jorge that they needed to find a husband for her immediately. She wants her to stop her whorish ways. If she doesn’t get married, she’ll tell Jorge that she’s taken up with Vasco again. It’s either that or the convent. Ursula flees the room in tears. Fortunata tells Sofia that calling her daughter a whore was a bit harsh. Sofia says she knows she’s bad enough. Fortunata says that Uriel isn’t such a bad catch. He’s a widower and his two children also died. Sofia says although he’s kind of a scoundrel, she noticed that he was kind to Tita. Fortunata says that if the only thing that’s not pleasing about him to Ursula is his mustachio, getting him to cut it off, like Jorge says, will solve that problem. Sofia looks at her a bit skeptically; she knows that a mustache isn’t the problem.

Ursula crashes into her room and flops on the bed sobbing. “I want Vasco!” (yo quiero Vasco) she says aloud. Meanwhile, over at the mill, Vasco is also crying, but he’s praying too. It’s really hard to understand without closed captioning but I think the gist is that he’s trying to make a deal with God that if God can repair the damage with his family, he’ll never touch another woman who isn’t his wife again.

It’s the next morning and we see the townsfolk opening their shops, stalls and doing their other morning business. Ric rides up on horseback to the lawyer’s office. Ric asks for the original of the will that Eustaquio gave him. Ric tells him they are going forward. The lawyer says that if the ED letter was bought with a bribe, it will be easy to challenge it in court. Ric says, we’ll see. The lawyer goes to his cabinet to get it.

La Font is also getting ready for the hearing. The ladies come in and LaFont compliments Lis on her looks. Manuela is hidden, listening at the door. La Font reassures Lis but Lis says she’s nervous about being around people she doesn’t know and she’s worried that the judge will not like her. La Font says the judge is a gentleman and a friend of his, she has nothing to fear. Fran tells her to calm down. LaFont says not to worry—the ED letter is their ace in the hole. It invalidates the marriage and the will. And with no will, she is the only legal heir.

At the courthouse, Ric hands the will over to the judge along with documents showing the monies spent by Camila since she came into the inheritance. The judge asks him to sit down. There’s a knock at the door. It’s LaFont and the ladies. Lis calls out to Ric and he answers that he is there. La Font helps her to a chair. The mood is tense.

Over at the forge, Ascanio is loading the wagon. Ascanio fills Santiago in about the Ric—Camila—letter situation and that Justo now knows too. At that moment, Manuela shows up tells them that her Father and the Salamanca women are suing for their inheritance. Ascanio is surprised “so soon?” Manuela is surprised that they know about it at all. Ascanio nods, that yes, they know all about it. Manuela nervously suggest that Lis may have her reasons but Camila is in danger. Ascanio thanks her but tells her to go back home. If her Dad finds out they’ve been talking…Manuela agrees. Ascanio climbs down off the wagon and stands beside her. She tells him that she is worried because she likes Camila but Lis is going to marry her father. Ascanio is surprised at this news which he did not know. Her urges her to leave quickly before somebody notices. He’s afraid that her father will punish her. But he makes sure to thank her for risking it and smiles at her. She tells him she knew he would want to know, and Santiago too, for Camila’s sake. After she goes, the twins and Santiago remark on how Lis could be going after Camila, that she seemed so nice when she was visiting them at the forge. They discuss how her marrying LaFont has changed things—he’s bad news, even if she is an angel. One of them suggests that maybe LaFont convinced her to do it. Ascanio says “told ya so” (about Lis being secretly evil). Santiago nods an admission. He asks if he thinks Ric can do something. Ascanio says “He’s a man with many resources.” Santiago says “but you told me he was robbed of his wealth.” Ascanio replies that that’s not what he was referring to.

Back at the hearing, Ric is confronting Fran about the nature of the ED letter. He announces that she admitted to him that she paid the doctor to write a false letter. Fran tries to make it sound as if she paid the doctor to write a letter—that doctors charge for everything, even writing letters. Ric says that she knows what she said and meant. Fran does not relent. Ric moves on to Lis and starts out yelling at her until LaFont tells him to cool it. Tears stream down from her cheeks and she is shaking but stands up and says what’s true is that he accompanied them to recover the inheritance and instead he married that whore, Camila! “He promised! He promised!” She screams and reaches out for his coat until she’s pulled away from him by Fran and LaFont, who guides her back to her chair. Ric calmly tells her that regardless of who or what Camila was, it was the will of her father (to disinherit Lis). Lis screams at him that he promised to get the family fortune back to his mother on her deathbed. LaFont looks impactado and the wheels are definitely turning on the Salamanca family relationships. Ric looks nervous that he probably knows way too much now.

At the Mancera Mansion, Manuela, Fortunata, Ursula and Sofia are in the great room. Manuela is telling them the gossip. Manuela thinks that Camila isn’t a fortune hunter like Lis alleges. Sofia agrees. She’s known her since she was born and her family. Ursula disagrees. She thinks that if she was desperate enough, she could have resorted to anything. Sofia disagrees. She says that she would do anything to help her. Ursula angrily shoots back that Sofia will do anything for anybody except her own daughter. Fortunata thinks that Ric will be able to bail her out in any event, since he has money. Ursula suddenly turns on Manuela and asks why she hasn’t been to see her. She slaps her with her feather twice. Sofia shakes her head.

Ascanio and Ines are walking in the town square and see Fran and Lis out walking, with LaFont trailing after. He mildly asks if the hearing is over. Lis suddenly turns on him and bitchily laughs and says that he “along with that prostitute Jimena” are going to go back to being servants very soon. She is led away by Fran. This scene is witnessed by Ines, Ofelia and Justo. Justo clarifies with Ascanio that he had been a servant but that Camila set him free. Ascanio goes to look for Ric. The woman confer that Camila had freed Claudio, Ascanio and Jimena and all of them will go back to being servants. Ofelia remarks on the hatred of Lis, that she could return Ascanio and Jimena to servitude as well. Justo says he doesn’t know. He hopes to God, no.

Meanwhile, Ric is with the Judge. The ED letter perjury is his word against theirs so there’s no getting around it. The Judge says that he’s looked at the sum total of the inheritance both in monies and in jewelry, furniture etc. and Camila will have to repay the value of all that stuff. Ric says he will repay it. The judge says that’s not enough—she has to be present. Ric looks grim. He goes out and is immediately set upon by the nervous family outside. Justo asks if they reached an agreement. Ric says no and walks on. They follow him. As they walk by Santiago’s the twins announce that they are out to their boss. Justo reaches for Ofelia and asks that maybe she or Santiago could talk to Don Jorge or Dona Sofia. Ric says no, there’s no need for that. Ascanio asks if Ric brought up Fran’s participation in the Bermejo affair but Ric tells him that that’s done with, Bermejo confessed and he shuts him up before he can say that Ric has been cleared, of the incident with the dead hooker. Ric says that Bermejo confessed to having acted on behalf of a “deceased person.” Santiago is overhearing some of this.

They get to Ofelia’s and Justo sits down at the table while Ofelia gets out the watermelon juice. Ric says he will need to know the exact amount that must be paid. Camila must stay away until it’s been satisfied or she risks going to jail. Ines and Ofelia are shocked. Justo asks if they can visit her but Ric says it’s a bad idea. He reassures them all that she’s safe where she is, guarded by his people. Ines asks about Ascanio and Jimena’s liberty and Ric says he doesn’t know but he will ask. He asks again for their discretion in spreading too much of this info in the town. Justo adds that Camila is well liked in the town but even so…As if on cue, Rita shows up. Ric bows and excuses himself and leaves. Ines, gets in her face and says “I don’t know how much you’ve heard but if you squeal to anyone, I’ll break your teeth.” Rita claims not to know what’s going on. Justo similarly threatens her, that if she talks, he’ll disinherit her. Everybody leaves except Rita and Ofelia. Rita complains that everybody treats her badly. Her husband won’t even sleep with her. Ofelia says nobody wants to tell her anything because they know she’d be happy if Camila died. Rita claims that’s not true. Ofelia ignores this and tells her that she should examine her conscience and figure out what she’s done wrong.

LaFont, Lis and Fran are back at LaFont’s. LaFont has given her a glass of water and is calming her down. He says that the worst is over. When Camila arrives, he can ask that Ric not be present. She thanks him. But he just wants to know one thing. What does Ricardo’s mom have to do with this. Lis tries to create a story about Ric’s mom being her godmother but LaFont looks sharply at Fran and keeps asking questions. He pushes them on whether Ricardo is their cousin (the pirate). He points out that in spite of her anger at him, she continues to protect him. Lis says no, while it’s true that she has affection for Ricardo, that it’s only because she feels betrayed by him that she is pursuing her rights so vigorously. Fran, is cool as a cucumber and says that if it were the case, they would have told him. They have no reason to lie.

----------------------
Next time: LaFont talks to the Judge who tells him that the problem looks like it’s going to be that Ric isn’t going to allow Camila to present herself. LaFont asks if Ric can be arrested for obstruction of justice. A romantic island getaway for Camila and Ric? Will Lis be able to control her rage or will she spill the beans to LaFont?

Labels: Pasion

Fabio holds Hugo and Beatriz at gunpoint. He has decided that the brother with Beatriz is Alcides and Beatriz supports this interpretation. Since Beatriz is on good terms with this brother, Fabio concludes that Beatriz betrayed him with Alcides. Hugo doesn't seem to pick up on the parallels with his situation with Soledad. Fabio agrees to being paid off. Hugo goes off to get money and sneaks back in but Fabio gets the drop on him. There's a struggle and Beatriz gets shot.

Arturo is forcing Ester to jump off the high place but his men report that the police have surrounded the church. Then Gladis shows up and forces Arturo to let Ester go. Gladis warns Ester that if she rats Arturo out, her family will pay the price. Ester agrees.

Boris has led the police to the church. Arturo's men are arrested but there's no sign of Arturo or Ester. Suddenly Ester shows up but she declines to identify Arturo's men as her kidnappers and is as ungracious as ever. Inspector Duarte is suspicious but can do nothing.

At the Obregon house, Enrico gets a psychic flash that Ester is ok. Then he tells Soledad about the treasure clue. Soledad has no idea what the clue could mean until she remembers that Jeremias gave her a jewelry box. Another clue is in the box that Enrico interprets as referring to a painting at the Hacienda Montenegro. Poof, he disappears.

The police, Boris and Marina bring Ester home to much rejoicing from Soledad, Lucas and Ursula. Later, Boris and Marina sit down with Soledad to answer her questions about Hugo's death. Boris repeats the heart trouble story but he and Marina are hostile to Soledad about her rapid marriage to Alcides after Hugo's death. She is about to explain when, of course, Ester interrupts and throws Boris and Marina out. During the conversation, Marina took the opportunity to steal Soledad's engagement ring from Hugo. She tells herself that Soledad doesn't deserve to have it. After Boris and Marina leave, Ursula notices the theft but Soledad declines to notify the police.

Paquito decides that Arturo is an eligible matrimonial candidate for Eloisa. They go to the Linares house to see him. Arturo is attracted to Eloisa but Gladis is nasty to Paquito. Paquito suggests that he can help redeem Arturo's reputation by his journalism. At this point, the police come to address Arturo.

Los Burques decide to make another attempt to find Alcides' money at the Hacienda Montenegro. They find Enrico there but he isn't interested in their activities. They don't find any money but have fun dressing up in Hugo and Soledad's clothes. (Although Soledad is much taller than Helena, the skirts of her gown are not dragging on the grounds when Helena wears it.) Later, they find Enrico who is frustrated that he can't find the clue in the painting. He lets slip that he is looking for a treasure and Los Burques are immediately interested.

Jeremias gets a report that Enrico has been seen at the Hacienda Montenegro and he and Rebeca set out for there.

Beatriz is in the hospital. Hugo says that Beatriz shouldn't have risked her life for him and must survive because she is a 'grand mujer'. The doctor says that she lost a lot of blood and may have brain damage. However, the police show up and arrest Hugo.

The police declare that Alcides is dead and as his widow, Soledad is his heir. Angry townspeople to whom Alcides owed money converge on the Obregon house demanding money. Ester and Lucas try to talk to them but the crowd gets ugly and starts throwing stones and tomatoes.

Labels: la traicion

March 13, 2008

From yesterday: Alex is dressed and ready for the business dinner, but Andrea is missing. Who should come in, all dressed up fancy, but our Mili! Alex is impactado, and happy. Mili looks pleased too.

Alex asks does your novio know you’re coming out with me? Mili says it wasn’t my idea, it was theirs – pointing at Regina and her two gal pals, all smirking. Don’t forget all I’ve taught you, says Regina, and she hustles the gal pals out.

You’re just trying to torment me, says Alex smiling. Your gramma asked me to go with you, says Mili, so that we could have one more day of our dream, our dream that’s about to end - a night with no Andrea, no baby. After that you go back to Andrea. And, Alex says, you to Hugo to forget me. Yes, says Mili. He loves me and maybe I will come to love him. Alex agrees to the dream night. He gives her his arm. Wow – in her heels, she’s as tall as he is!

Meantime, Braulio is still driving a furious Andrea around the night, pretending to be lost. She wants him to stop at a public phone but he says the neighborhood is too dangerous.

In what looks like a hotel room, Damien is still trying to talk to Francois who is in the grips of a Big Mac attack. Damien asks if he recognizes him, and if he realizes that with the police watching, lurking around Casa Belmonte is not a plan. Francois has the conversational skills of a parrot – he only keeps repeating Death to Constancio between bites and looking wild-eyed. I can help you, confide in me, says Damien. Death to Constancio says Francois. Hold that idea, says Damien, trying to move the conversation along. You’ll be safe here and I’ll help you – if you can understand me. Francois almost looks insulted, and nods. Good, Damien says, I’ll help you get your revenge. Death to Constancio says Francois. Damien looks doubtful.

Regina and the gal pals: The gals are sad it’s only one night. Ah, but what a night, says Regina. Mili will be the loveliest and will be on the arm of the man she loves. The pals sigh. And I hope she remembers my lessons in how to be a lady, says Regina. Oy, say the gals.

Mili and Alex arrive at a grand mansion and are received by one of the gloved brotherhood. Alex says he is Alex Belmonte and wife. Aside, he tells Mili – it’s part of the dream. Mili looks around and says people are starving everywhere and look at this house. Alex tells her to shoosh and she wants to leave. He says stay, and keep your mouth shut because this dinner means big bucks for the Belmontes. At the table do what I do. Don’t worry says Mili, the abue told me what to do – start with the cutlery on the outside and work your way in. Or the other way? Alex says the first way, but they both look unsure.

In the foyer, Vale is telling Rorgan to pick up her wedding gown and don’t mess up. He is flustered, finally starts crying, falls to his knees and begs please don’t get married. Vale manages to disengage him and she takes off up the stairs. He is a puddle of tears.

Mili and Alex meet the gracious owners of the fancy home. Mili hasn’t even got the manners to smile. The lady of the house asks her what she does with her time, and Mili makes a stubborn face. Finally she says that Alex told her she mustn’t speak. The lady says surely he’s not such a machista! He IS says Mili! At this point Mili begins to act pretty darned badly. How ‘bout I call you Liz she asks, giving the hostess a good buddy-punch in the shoulder. From there she goes downhill, hanging on Alex’s neck and being snotty. She says before we got married, I was a servant. The couple laugh – what an encantadora! Such a wonderful sense of humor! (Shades of Liza Doolittle’s first exposure to high society) Well, at least our hosts have got some manners, which is definitely more than we can say for Mili at this juncture. They head for the dining room. What a huge apartment you have exclaims Mili.

Rorgan is lying on a blanket on the lawn, looking at the moon. He falls asleep and dreams – it’s the wedding of Vale and Sergio. Bobby is sobbing, Vale at the altar is looking doubtful. The padre asks if anyone objects. Rorgan at the back of the church aisle says I do! I love her! Vale looks ecstatic, hands her bouquet to Sergio and she and Rorgan run to each other, slo-mo like a shampoo commercial, their leaps making boinging sounds. He dips her, they kiss and the family applauds. Sergio and Bobby sob in each other’s arms. A cute little dream scene.

We are at dinner with Alex, Mili and the rich couple. It’s a huge table with only the four of them. (I thought yesterday someone had said couples only, but there are no other couples there.) Mili is still behaving very badly, saying the fish is okay (she leans over to sniff it), but she’d rather have tacos. The husband remarks that she’s wonderful. Alex looks surprised, and I am too. Alex begins to ask about whether the rich fellow wants to build housing on his land. Mili, slouched over table, butts into the conversation, talks with her mouth full. Alex cringes.

The gal pals come across the sleeping Rorgan. Gloria wants a bit of his hair, and Lina goes over. He wakes and sees them. Why the scissors? I was in beauty school, says Lina. Oh, I need a haircut, can you give me one? Lina scores the lock of hair.

Now Mili seems like she might be drunk, or she’s faking it. She is sucking her fingers, saying how great dessert was. Alex is mortified. He says to the rich guy that he is sorry they couldn’t do business. Mili interrupts and asks what the guy does with all that land. Nothing, he says, I inherited it. You don’t work it? No. Well let Alex develop it! The wife chimes in – see, exactly what I say – why keep land that you hardly know where it is? Do you have children asks Mili. One, he’s working on his postgrad. Miili launches into a lot of slang and I didn’t understand most of it, but I think she said why not take the money and have a good time with Liz. Liz smiles. Alex is giving her the stink eye. What? says Mili. She looks abashed. Did I put my foot in it?

Carla walks into the kitchen with some shopping bags from nice stores. Where were you? asks Socorro. Don’t start, says Carla. Where did you get the money? None of your beeswax says Carla and flounces out. Now what wonders Socorro.

Carla is in the dorm trying on a fashionable studded leather jacket while Gloria looks on. Lina arrives with Rorgan’s lock of hair. Both girls wonder where Carla got the money for the jacket. I earned it, struts Carla.

Andrea and Braulio arrive home. She tells him off and he is contrite and says he’s not good with cars. Sounds like they ran out of gas and had to walk. Andrea heads off to see if Alex is back yet. Braulio smiles broadly to himself.

A stoney-faced Alex and Mili are getting into the car. She looks distressed. and asks if he is mad. He says no, but did she realize that millions hinged on that dinner? Mili says I was trying to help. Alex says he never should have taken her. She said you know if you married me, I’d be putting my foot in it all the time at dinners like that. I couldn’t make you proud. He is silent. Mili says you’re not saying anything because you know it’s true. His cell rings.

It’s Andrea. Alex says the business deal didn’t fly – don’t wait up. Mili says if she had a cell, Hugo would be calling her, but she says this tentatively as if she’s trying to be unconcerned, but can’t manage it. Alex gives her a cool, steady look.

The next day Regina asks how it went and Mili says her social skills weren’t up to par. What happened asks Regina. Well, I did what I had to do to make Alex fall out of love with me. You mean you behaved badly on purpose? I was just myself, says Mili. Okay, more lessons says Regina. [I sure hope that was an act. If I were Alex my burning love would be completely cold ashes by now – Mili really was appalling.] Mili asks off for Kermes and Regina says sure – have a good time. I’ve forgotten what Kermes is…

Damien is talking to Connie in his home office, trying to work an angle. He says he knows a good detective who could find Francois, but of course the detective costs a fortune. You don’t say! smiles Connie. Forget it, not one cent. Boy Damien, he says, you sure like to turn every situation to your advantage. You should talk, says Damien, after the way you weaseled my shares away. Hey, I was saving your life, says Connie. Let me return the favor, says Damien. It’s fun to see these two con artists go at it.

The phone rings – it’s the rich guy from last night. You don’t say! says a beaming Connie to him. Looks like they are willing to sell the land. Connie says he’ll be right over to firm things up. He hangs up. That idiot Alex actually brought it off! he says. He and Damien are jubilant.

A hang-dog Alex comes into the study and says he has to apologize. For what says Connie. You did it! The guy said you have your wife to thank. Wow, says Damien, what did Andrea do to make it happen? Alex looks stunned.

It’s the day of the festival – it’s like a school fair, there are booths, little flags and balloons adorn the outdoor area, and young people are milling in the background. The padre and Sor Cachete discuss a marriage game going on. They wonder when Mili and Gloria are going to show up, and sure enough here they come with Lina.

Bobby and Alex are sitting in the foyer, bored. The don’t feel like going to the Kermes, too boring. Maybe a movie? Here comes Hugo. He’s off to a Kermes! Alex suddenly feels he has to go too and Bobby follows.

Socorro and Rorgan in the kitchen. Give me some juice, he says, I need to drink to forget. Vale comes in and wants to know why he hasn’t left for the designer yet. He slugs down his juice and leaves.

Alex and Bobby arrive at the Kermes. Right away Gloria drags Bobby off to get a haircut - apparently Lina is giving them. Alex smiles at Mili over a foosball (sp?) table and tells her about her success with the business deal and thanks her. See, he says, you could be my wife after all. He challenges her to a game of foosball. She says if he loses, he gets a haircut and not just a little trim, either. He says if she loses she has to marry him. No point in betting on this one, we know how it’s going to come out.

Sergio is in a convertible in traffic, necking with the French fashion lady. Guess who should drive up next to them at the signal but Rorgan. His eyes pop out.

Mili and Alex are getting into their game. The girls cheer, do their handshake routine and Bobby cheers too. Alex wins – no surprise there.

Sergio and the French lady are now in a cafe drinking wine and cooing in French. He says that after he marries Vale, they’re going to honeymoon in Paris and he sure would like to see her there, as she enchants him. Her eyes say oui oui. At a table in the background, Rorgan lowers his newspaper and looks over the top of his shades.

Mili is a sore loser. You gotta pay your debt says Alex. What debt says Bobby? She has to marry me he answers. No problem, says Mili, we’re at a kermes and we can get married right here. She drags him off. Sor Cachete is running the marriage game. All these years, says the Sor, you’ve never wanted to play marriage before. Well, here’s my novio, says Mili. The Sor is distressed and says 5 tickets each. Alex pulls out a bunch of tickets and says here, have them all. The Sor protests that they are not children, but the padre says it’s okay, it’s not real. Hugo has appeared and watches, distressed. The Sor pronounces them man and wife and they exchange rings too small to fit. Mili looks impatient. Alex says they aren’t married until they kiss. Mili looks unwilling, but soon is into the kiss. Hugo is distraught, heartbroken, and runs away.

The three girls arrive back at the kitchen. Mili is floating and heads off to bed. Socorro asks what’s up and they explain she’s married the patron. But it’s just a kermes marriage says Socorro. I think they said they’re going to the fortune teller tomorrow.

Andrea sees Alex and asks where’s he’s been all day. Not one word, one phone call! Alex says he doesn’t have to account for his movements. Andrea says he heard about his dinner and that it was a success. Alex says he’s happy because he married Mili. What! says Andrea. Alex says It was a kermes marriage, don’t worry, you’ll still get your wedding. I better, says Andrea, for our baby. It was real for me says Alex because nobody was pressuring me, no one was threatening me. It’s the marriage that I will carry in my heart and my memories, it’s the real one. He holds up his hand to show the small ring, which is stuck in the middle of his finger.

Vale is in her bathrobe in her room, reading a magazine. Rorgan knocks. Seems he failed his designer mission, but he says something terrible happened. Vale tells him oh sure, but he says really. Well, what? He says your novio is cheating on you. Vale says you and your stupid stories, get lost! and she slams the door. She sits down to read at first nonchalant, but then she looks up, worried.

Mili is lying in bed, remembering Alex’s kiss. And aw – he’s lying in bed remembering the same thing.

It’s the next day. Sergio and Vale are on the couch and he’s saying how glorious it will be when they get married. Rorgan comes in, overhears and thinks he’s talking about Gloria. Her too he asks? After some back and forth, he says that he saw Sergio kissing the French lady. Sergio is smooth – he doesn’t bobble. Vale throws Rorgan out.

The girls are in the kitchen with Socorro, telling her about the fortune teller and how expensive he is. But they have some herbs that he sold them – now how to get them down the throats of Bobby and Rorgan? They spy the lemonade Socorro is preparing. They dump the herbs in and both stir slowly together like MacBeth’s witches.

Back to Sergio and Vale. Vale is telling Rorgan off, and saying he must never speak in front of her novio. Rorgan goes off reluctantly. Sergio wants to know why she didn’t fire him after he told those lies. Vale says oh it’s a little game they play that she likes. He’s okay, you don’t have anything to worry about. Sergio looks very serious.

Mili and the padre are talking. He is telling her not to talk flip about Braulio. But I always have and you never said anything before. Well, I’m saying it now says the padre. What he really wants to talk about is that kiss. You really love Alex, huh? Yes, and he loves me, but there’s the problem about the baby. The padre says that God gives us all kinds of things, happiness, sadness and all, and we have to accept it. Maybe it’s just not meant to be. Mili is encouraged – maybe this is a test God is giving her and Alex? But then there’s the baby, like you say, says the padre. But how do I get him out of my thoughts, out of my heart? Pray for strength to avoid temptation says the padre. And you should stay away from him and any man who is expecting a baby.

And, says the padre, you should have seen Hugo’s face when you kissed Alex. Hugo is in love with you too. It’s not right to play with his feelings just to distance Alex from you.

Out front of the house, Bobby is getting out of his hot little red convertible. Rorgan says they have to talk. Bobby says we have nothing to talk about and who said you could say “tu” to me? Rorgan tells him about the French guy and says they need to team up. He tells how he told Vale right in front of Sergio and Vale didn’t fire him because she actually loves him. They decide to follow Sergio and spy on him. Just then the gal pals show up with now herbal lemonade and offer them a glass, and then another.

Alex is at the office where Andrea is stroking him and saying they need to talk, to be alone, not to fight all the time, to rediscover their love. Alex rolls his eyes. We don’t have to marry, says Alex, and I won’t be touching you again. The padre comes in. He wants to talk to Alex and they retire to his office.

Hugo and Mili in his room: He is furious with her and says he’s not just a toy. He’d prefer not to see her again. She is confused. Hugo says he loves her and he hopes she can come to love him. He can offer her a whole life, unlike Alex. I actually felt sorry for him.

The padre is talking to Alex and saying he needs to attend to the mother of his child. I am says Alex, and I’ll do everything for the child, pay everything. Why, I’m even going to marry Andrea. “Even going to?” asks the padre – aren’t you in love? I am says Alex, like never before in my life. But not with Andrea, with Mili. Freeze frame.

Avances: Luci tells Connie they’re going to separate. Alex finally gets lustful with Mili. The second set of avances didn’t have captions, so I don’t know what they were about.

Labels: guapos

Vasco wants her to listen, to try to understand, but Ines screams back in pain that he should be the one trying to understand her, and what she is feeling. He wants forgiveness, but Ines hasn’t got any to give. “Don’t make me promises because you are not going to keep them. You continue with your life and I’ll continue on with mine.” “—But we’re man and wife!” “—You don’t respect me as a wife. You go off with any whore. What if I would go off with another man?” “—Don’t say that because I’ll get mad!” he says all macho man. She screams back, “I am already mad!! I’m hurt now, very hurt! Despite all your defects, I loved you since I can remember, but you know what, Vasco? The time has come that that love is finished with.”

Vasco begs Ines not to say this and tries to grab hold of her. “Don’t touch me!” (This is the second most famous telenovela phrase all telenovela novices must learn, the first being “Let go of me,” and the third being, “I’m pregnant.”) He says they should talk it over but Ines pretty much says talk to the pillow cuz the face ain’t listenin’. He rolls over to his side of the bed then, thinking of how he’s going to get his [fly] out of the wringer this time.
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Across town at the palace, Jorge is playing the harpsichord when LaFont comes in wondering why he was sent for if Jorge has cancelled the meeting with the posse. Jorge says he wants to know the low-down on this mess with Lis, Ric and the inheritance. Bouffy says he’s not sure if Lis is lying or not, but he’s convinced she’s afraid of Ric because he is El Antillano. Jorge asks if she told him that. Bouffy says no, but he is certain that he is and Jorge is all ears.

At the hacienda, Ric and Cami eat in their room after having made love. He’s sure everything will turn out fine. Cami insists he come out personally to keep her informed and he agrees. She wonders if he knows where to find the extra money to pay the remainder of the inheritance back to Lis. Ric says yes, but if he doesn't get the money then he'll ask Foreman. Cami wonders if that won’t compromise him somehow. All that matters to Ric is that she doesn't set one foot in jail. He confesses his love to her and seals it with a kiss. He promises her that if she does what he tells her then everything will come out ok. (Who’re we kidding here? Cami is totally ADDS challenged when it comes to following directions. We know this. Ric knows this. I hope he has a Plan B and a Plan C ready, ‘cuz sure as shootin’ he’s gonna need it with this dim dame!) She nods her agreement.

Upstairs at the palace Fran and Lis come to Sofia’s room to explain their reason for leaving to move in at Alberto’s the next day. Sofia isn’t comfy with the improper move, even if it is, as Fran explains, into the house of the man Lis has agreed to marry. Sofia says this isn’t usually even considered until after a formal marriage agreement has been signed. She wonders if there isn’t some other reason for their moving in with him and his daughter, like possibly some offense of Ursula’s. Fran says none.

Sofia still suspects something else. She mentions that she overheard the two talking about some other man that Lis was interested in and actually preferred. She advises Lis that if she’s marrying LaFont on the rebound, in order to forget another man, she is making a mistake because “he is no angel of the Lord’s.” Lis insists with crocodile tears running down her cheeks that it is because Cami has left her poverty-stricken and out on the streets, and well, LaFont has been such a gentleman and so supportive. Sofia’s answer is, "Well, it's your decision.”

Downstairs Bouffy and Jorge continue discussing the matter of the inheritance. Al says Lis has a right to the money even though Jorge suggests there’s no need to sue for it since Ric has offered to give it back and settle the matter privately. LaFont says that kind of arrangement isn’t suitable and his way, by impugning the will, has legal standing. Besides Lis’ wanting to do it this way, she wants to prove the marriage was invalid by using the ED letter and stating that her father was unable to consummate it. By invalidating the marriage, she invalidates the will automatically. Cami goes back into servitude and Ric will pay for her freedom as he sees it. Ric, he says, will take off for the sea a while, rob a ship or two and have enough money to buy Cami’s freedom and to pay the difference for what’s already been spent of the inheritance and all will be done according to law.

Jorge isn't very convinced about impugning the will and taking away legally Cami's inheritance. He doesn’t like the idea that she will have to spend the time in jail while Ric gets the money. He suspects LaFont is getting him involved in a messy business and that Ric will bring a horde of his pirates to attack Jorge’s lands and San Fernando to get his wife out of jail. Bouffy sneers that Ric ain’t no Foreman, able to summons the whole lot of them at will. All they have to do is send reinforcements to the neighboring towns, including even Vera Cruz, and that should handle it.

Jorge though is worried what the townspeople will think since the Dariens are from there. Bouffy says let them think what they will: that Cami married an old man for his money and stripped a poor blind girl of her rightful inheritance. “By the way, tomorrow Lis and her aunt are moving to my place.” Jorge smiles conspiratorially.

In another part of town Santi gets ready for bed in Ines’ old room. Ofelia comes in and says that the idea of two bedrooms doesn’t appeal to GRita. Santi doesn’t care. She asks what Jorge came by to discuss. She mentions there may be a reason to reconcile if he is tempted by the idea of being able to help the people with their needs. He says that everyone has been suggesting the same thing. The problem is he is just too bitter over the tragic things Jorge’s actions have caused in his life. Ofelia mentions Sofia’s visit and the offer for her and Jorge to be godparents. Santi says he is not going to allow it.

Ofelia leaves Santi alone and he begins to think to himself that maybe Ascanio was right to tell him that his bitterness toward Jorge was poisoning him; but unlike Christ, he cannot forgive those who martyred him.
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It is sunrise in San Fernando again and Ric sends Cami and Jimena off in the coach with his men to take refuge on La Salamandra. She’s worried about her father and what will happen to his health when he finds out the news and why she’s gone. Ric says he’ll miss her and he promises to see Justo in a bit and let him know the score. He tells Jime not to let themselves do anything rash and he tells El Guero to protect the women at all cost and to let him know as soon as they make it there. El Guero promises the men will protect the women with their lives. --As the bard once wrote, “…parting is such sweet sorrow,” and we all sob as Ric and Cami say farewell for who knows how long.

Back at the palace Sofia catches Ursula in her lie about seeing Mannie and accuses her of hooking up with a farm worker. “You see a man and you get hot to trot,” she tells her daughter. “—I’m a young woman with blood in my veins.” “--Fine. Then I’m getting you a husband.” Ursula says she already told her she doesn’t want a husband, but Sofia says tough, she’s getting her one anyway. Discussion over.

Over at Justo’s, he, Ascanio and Ines are eating breakfast. He discusses Jorge’s offer to have Uriel sell the lanterns in his store. He advises Ascanio to suggest to Santi that he shouldn’t look the proverbial gift horse in the mouth when it comes to commerce. He also suggests he go see Romeo Castillo about taking some to sell to other merchants in the neighboring areas and to tell him that Justo sent him. He then asks Ines, who is very obviously distracted, about Vasco and she says he went off early to take care of some farmers and their grain. She leaves to give Paco his bath.

Justo signals to Ascanio afterward and tells him he’s upset with Vasco because he’s been seeing Ursula again. He’d thought marriage would settle Vasco down, but it didn’t. He asks him not to tell Santi, but he’s worried that Jorge will find out. He’s hoping that Ascanio can talk some sense into Vasco and explain somehow that he’s got to stop playing with fire. Ascanio says Vasco ought to know this by now, but he’ll try to figure out something to say to him.

Upstairs at Santi’s, GRita is griping to herself and the baby about what a sin it is for a husband not to sleep with his wife any longer. Santi walks in dressed in his best again and she asks where he’s going. He says to see Sofia. Grita asks if she sent for him to perhaps discuss the baby’s baptism. He says he hasn’t any idea but she thinks certainly they will want to be the godparents. He asks her if it was their idea or hers because he figures it was she who did the asking. He is against it anyhow. She says so what harm if it was her since Sofia was the matron of honor for Cami’s wedding. He insists she was , but Jorge had no part in that. She insists he’s Santi’s father and he insists he doesn’t want to argue about it further.

Grita changes the subject to why Santi moved to another room and he tells her he wants to be able to sleep at night without her constant complaints. He hands her the baby back and leaves. She whines to herself about why he’s so changed, then says, “Why should I ask when I already know the answer?”

At LaFont’s he tells the household to receive Lis and Fran and to treat Lis as if she were already the lady of the house. No exceptions. When he leaves, Mannie worries about not really knowing Lis very well. Agata says she’s a nice lady, and being blind, she is probably a decent person.
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At the palace Sofia and Jorge discuss the engagement between Lis and LaFont. She says she understands that even if he ought to be despicably vile as a husband. She doesn’t think that Lis should be moving in before the wedding and says she wonders then if there isn’t something else going on. Jorge plays dumb. Just then Santi arrives and she gets ready to go in and see him. He hopes Sofia can make him see reason and accept. She gives him a silly stare and walks off.

Al is meeting with the judge. Eustaquio informs him that the complainants will meet to discuss the actual amount of the inheritance and he will need the original will to do so. He says he figures Cami must have spent quite a lot of it already. Al says that Ric will pay the rest of what’s left. Then he says the judge must order reinforcements of the guard for the nearby towns because he suspects that Ric might do something crazy in order to protect his wife and he’s someone to be wary of. Eustaquio doesn’t think it’s necessary because Ric seems too civilized and a gentleman for that. Angrily Al reminds him of the old Spanish saw, “we see the face but the heart is unknown”, so he’d better do it or else particularly since Jorge agrees.

Back at the palace, Sofia makes excuses for her husband and tells Santi that Jorge is no better and no worse than other Lord Governors. Santi says one ought to at least try to conduct himself as a Christian. She agrees, but asks how many really manage to do it. She continues to open up to him, “I’ve not had a pleasant life; and then I had a daughter who, well, turned out like her father.” She tells him her worry is for the town folk who are mainly good, honest and hardworking family men. She thinks they need his help.

Santi says, everyone one who is aware of their relationship tells him the same thing, but he’s too full of bitterness and it’s much stronger than he and outweighs the rest. His soul is full of hate and there isn’t a day that goes by that he doesn’t think of all the misfortune in his life Jorge is responsible for: “that damned night, the business with my engagement to Camila, my life turned into a tragedy, from a happy man turned into a poor wretch, --because I still am a miserable wretch.” Sofia reminds him that helping others can be a salve for his soul. “Seeing the grateful face of others, knowing that you have the power to help, to remedy injustice…..”

Santi asks Sofia how she knows that he is capable of such things. She answers that he is a good-hearted man, and one who has also suffered. He says, even so he cannot imagine getting along with the man and his mother thinks Jorge will pervert him. Sofia tries to remind him of Christ’s vanquishing The Devil in the desert, but Santi says he’s a sinner and not Christ. She replies that St. Paul was a sinner, too. “You want to convince me whatever the cost, right, Doña Sofia?” She smiles. “Of course! At least promise me you’ll think about it. Ok?”

Sofia changes the subject a minute to the baby’s baptism. She says GRita asked them to be the godparents, but she’ll understand if he doesn’t want that and she will not be offended. He basically says thanks, but no thanks. Sofia says, “Whether it might be hate or love, blood always calls to blood.” He asks her why she is so insistent. Fighting back tears she tells him it’s because she believes in him.
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Castulo tells Ric that there is no possibility of renouncing, sharing or making donations because the will is absolutely air-tight. Ric asks for him to investigate if Alberto is thinking of suing his wife in order to invalidate the will. Castulo then visits with Eustaquio who confirms the suit is in the works already, based on the ED letter he’s been given. Castulo is impactado to hear that what remained of the burned document that was legible stated that, due to Timoteo’s advanced age, he would have been unable to consummate the marriage. Though it “pains” the judge to learn of it, for Camila Darien’s sake, “The law is the law,” he says with the imperious smile of a jurist who knows he holds the legal trump card in the case.

Meanwhile, outdoors, Ric stares menacingly at his aunt while LaFont escorts her and Lis down the street to Frankenstein Manor, baggage in tow. It is a curious scene, oddly reminiscent of a funeral entourage, as our popular pirate ponders his poker-hand and peers at the pretentious pug-thug parading his prize past the paseo. LaFont may have correctly figured Cami to be Ric’s Achilles’ heel, but now he’s shown his worst enemy that Lis is his.

Castulo meets back a few minutes later with Ric to confirm his suspicions that Alberto definitely filed the lawsuit and it is based on the ED letter Eustaquio was given.

Lis and Fran arrive at Bouffy's house meanwhile and Mannie welcomes them graciously. Al says good-bye because he must go. He kisses Lis’ hand, but she hides any squirrely feeling that kiss has given her (and the rest of us) and he leaves.

Ric tells Castulo, over rum and sherry at the tavern, that Fran told him herself she got that ED letter by bribing the doctor. Castulo once again looks like he’s just swallowed a spoonful of castor oil.

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At Frankenstein Manor, Mannie shows the two women to their rooms. Fran asks to be put in the same bedroom as Lis and Mannie obliges. They tell her that they want Clothilde brought from the other house to be their maid. Fran says she’ll give her Clothilde’s “references” (no doubt as fake as that ED letter, IF the old gossip has any) from the last house once they’re unpacked. Mannie leaves and the two discuss whether Lis has done the right thing because now Ric will hate them. Fran insists there was no other option for them and says “better hate than indifference” since Ric has never ever shown her any interest. Lis agrees she is oh so right about that. (What a woe is me scene. These two take the cake.) Fran says then that she only hopes that Ric doesn’t try to take it out on her now.

Jorge asks Sofia what she and Santi discussed. She says just about the baptism. He is upset that Santi refused to have them be the baby’s godparents and says damn, he’s an arrogant man! Sofia says he has a reason to be. Jorge asks if Santi considered accepting Jorge’s offer. She says he didn’t agree to anything and they really didn’t discuss it. He wonders why and she says because it is a decision you have to make without being pressured. He says Santi is spiting him.

Just then Alberto, Marcel and Dali (Matteo and Uriel) arrive for their meeting with Jorge while he and Sofia are still discussing the Santi situation. Sofia notes how Uriel takes a minute to talk to Tita about her doll and is impressed with his caring attitude. The men go into the office to wait for Jorge and she asks for a minute more with Jorge. She says it’s time that Ursula gets married, and that they should marry her off right away and be done with it. He asks why, if she’d done something she shouldn’t have. Sofia says no, but there’s no reason to go off to Mexico City to find a husband for Ursula when one of his friends would do. He asks who and she says possibly Uriel. Jorge smiles and seems to nod his approval.
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Out in the countryside on their way to the boat, Pablo asks Mario if the boss is finally ready for them to go back out to sea for some bidnez. Mario says no, it has to do with something about his wife. Pablo asks if Ric is really in love then. He says he envies that because he’s never found a good woman. Mario says him either. Pablo asks about Jimena. Mario says to be quiet about her because just talking about her makes him hot to trot (and Mario needs a cool head to do his task, remember). Talk turns to Pablo’s mother being a whore who abandoned him when he was very young. As for his brothers, he has no idea where they are since he left home long ago because his father used to beat him every day of his life.

Mario warns Pablo not to judge his mother or the life she might have led. He says it might even be that she didn’t actually leave them but the other way around. Pablo says he knows many women who fell into the life because they had to, but when it comes to leaving a child for the life, that is different. He asks Mario about what his mother was like. Mario says she was a saint who didn’t have the guts to defend her son the way Pablo’s did. “How long since you’ve seen her?” he asks Pablo. “Years. And I have no desire to either.” Mario tells him he ought to because she’s very lonely and misses him greatly. Pablo asks him if he knows her, then. He says of course. “She killed a man for you.” Pablo asks who. Mario answers, “El Tuerto. She found out what he did to you when you were bringing El Antillano’s two chests.” Pablo wipes away tears. “Then she’s here?” Mario answers yes but he won’t tell him where until Pablo swears to him that he’ll listen to whatever she has to say to him. Pablo doesn’t know what to think when he hears this.
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Back in Jorge’s office, Jorge tells the posse that LaFont will coordinate things, Uriel will sell the contraband out of his store and Matteo will be the go-between with the pirates. Matteo wants to know how the profits will be divided up and Jorge says like always: 50% for Jorge, 25% to Al, and the remaining 25% between Uriel and Matteo. Matteo asks Jorge again about the jewels and Jorge replies that it’s still too soon to be passing them around. He’s got them safely stored in the cellar for now and he doesn’t want Ric to know they have them. So then talk turns to making sure they have papers to sell the merchandise “legitimately” out of Uriel’s store; LaFont growls that naturally Jorge’s taking care of that right there locally. Jorge orders Uriel to make contact with the current distributor, Romeo Castillo, in Tres Cruces and to tell him that Juancho the Pirate decided to do business with them now. He shouldn’t have a problem with that. Jorge emphasizes again that no one is to ever know that he is personally involved in any of this.

Jorge also warns them to be especially careful in dealing with these pirates, because they murder at the drop of a hat (or for the simple business of removing a fly, as he put it).

Meanwhile, Don Eustaquio arrives at Ric’s hacienda with a summons for Cami and introduces himself. Ric greets him and confirms for the judge that she’s out of town. He says he knows about the case but suggests that since she’s away he can come instead in her absence. The judge says fine, for purposes of becoming familiar with the facts, but she will have to present herself. Ric says alright then asks what time he has to be in court the next morning.

Labels: Pasion

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