Caray, Caray!

Once again, I’m substituting for our beloved Schoolmarm, AKA Captain Jenny Cash/Schoolmarm-in-Black to whom I sent my good thoughts and prayers. Following K example I want to dedicate this recap to all and each of the brothers and sisters that gather together every night to watch this crazy novela, including the anonymous ones (starting with you anounimous#1) because what makes this site special is the diversity of backgrounds and opinions.

I’m copying the end of Sylvia’s recap because I’m very practical (My father would have called it lazy) and she does such a good job that I don’t see the need to change it.

Ivonne goes to Pastor's office as he's inspecting his girth. He asks her is his stomach fat? No no, of course not, you're very handsome she answers. Pastor admits to Ivonne that he completely dissed her to Heriberto. Ivonne is aghast, how could he impugne her reputation in front of just anyone? Pastor corrects her, not just anybody, the man of his life! Ivonne gets angry and tells Pastor it's not she he should worry about but Julia. And yes, he does have a fat stomach! Pastor buttons his jacket and sucks it in.

Heriberto blusters to Juan that he wants a piece of the action. Juan tries to ply him with big pink marshmallows but to no avail. Heriberto says they are partners, right? So this is what he wants, at the very least he should be made Vice President! Juan guffaws, caray caray caray caray, what? Heri seethes, either Juan makes him a VP or he will tell his Papa to demand back the money that Juan used to buy this little stand. Agreed?

Juan is Que the hell? impactado.
_______________________

On to Friday’s show

Pastor throws the code of conduct to Julia very much the same way he did with Juan waaaay at the beginning of the show. He tells her that it is strictly forbidden to have romantic relationships with coworkers (Aaaaaargh! I just realized that my youngest erased part of the tape just right at the beginning I don’t think is much, but if somebody could fill out whatever happened here I would appreciate it).

Now Heriberto is talking to Pastor. He tells him that he is tired of the unfairness of it all. Pastor tells him that he understands and calls him my future vice-president, and since they achieved so much, they should celebrate. –What about going to dinner tonight? Heriberto says that his schedule is a little complicated for tonight. Pastor says that tonight, tomorrow, any day is ok for him. Heriberto agrees to the dinner.

Juan is complaining to Fernando that Pastor is filling out Heriberto’s big head with flowers. Fernando answers sagely “Cria cuervos y te sacaran los ojos” (Help ungrateful people and they will hurt you. Lit. Nurture crows and they will peck your eyes out) Fer tells Juan that it is all Juan’s fault he defended Pastor and now these are the consequences. Juan is at a lost on what to do. Fer asks him incredulous –You don’t know what to do? Aren’t you the boss? Can’t you stop that bold guy? Juan says that of course he can, but he didn’t want to be known as egotistical or arrogant. Fernando tells him that he is going to have to do it with Pastor, other wise he is going to get him in a lot of trouble. Juan says that he will talk to the “chipote con patas” (bump with legs). Juanito encourages him with a “well said dad”.

Delirio wearing his absurd disguise, talks to Gutis about his escape from prison. He gives him a 100 pesos calling card so that they can keep in contact and tells him that he has everything planed. He found a little piece of land adjacent to the prison and he is ready to start tonight. A guard approaches and Gutis changes the conversation –Please tell my “jefecita” (mom) that I miss her. Delirio takes the opportunity to insult Gutis without repercussion and answers back –sure, you know that I’m always remembering your mother. (Translation: I’m always telling you to go and **** your mother) (The way that Mexicans, I don’t know if other nationalities do this also I can only speak for Mexicans, are able to turn the most innocent phrase into an insult has always fascinated me, it is call alburear and it got my attention when I realized that my favorite program growing up “El Chavo del Ocho” a program written and targeted for children took a total different dimension once I grew up and understood the second meaning of the phrases. They never used bad words, however like in Delirio’s and Gutis conversation the delivery of the phrase the emphasis in certain words or the change of the natural accent makes a big difference, children don’t even notice it …but I digress. ) Delirio tells Gutis to take care and leaves.

At the Gallery Ana is talking to Willy. She tells him that Nidia was Samuel’s legitimate wife and she understands how she felt; she even says that maybe in her place she might’ve done the same thing. Willy is charmed by Ana’s wiliness to forgive and asks her if she accepts his proposal. When Ana agrees to become his partner he proposes a celebration; Ana accepts to go to dinner with him with one condition, Paula should go with them. Willy only answers with a –You have a beautiful smile.

At Farrell, Juan enters Pastor’s Cave of Creative Concoctions AKA Pastor’s Office and starts chewing him up. He demands to know what is he saying about him –I respect you as a man and as a man I want you to answer me, what did you tell Heriberto about me? Pastor realizes that he is in trouble and tries to minimize what he told Heriberto. –I only told him that you were a little stubborn. However Juan doesn’t believe him, he tells him that he knows that Pastor told Heriberto that Juan is the kind of person that forgets his friends. Juan is very upset and tells him that he has always defended him (Pastor) but today he (Pastor) has fallen from the pedestal Juan had him on, and Juan has realized the kind of person that Pastor really is. Pastor is very troubled now and tells him that he did everything for Juan, to facilitate communications between Heriberto and him. He promises that this will never happen again. Juan says it better never happen again and over all I don’t want anymore gossip in this company, because gossip turns people into tepocatas? cemetery spiders and venomous snakes, is that clear? Pastor says yes Mr. President.

At Ana’s Dwelling of Dutiful Devotion, Willy is telling Ana that he wants to sell paintings from the foreigner artists that he manages. Ana is very happy with the idea. He is explaining his plan when Paula arrives. Ana tells her the happy happenings (That Willy is her new partner) and tells her that they were waiting for her to go celebrate. Paula declines the invitation saying that she is very tired, and that Ana and Willy should go celebrate. Willy asks Ana if she is ready and Ana says that she can’t go because she really wanted to celebrate with Paula. Willy says ok then you tell me when you are ready. He leaves.

At Farrell Pastor is venting. He tells Yvonne that not even CL (BTW still no CL in this episode) had talked to him the way Juan did. Yvonne is not too sympathetic and reminds him that he did this to himself. Pastor says that he didn’t know that Heriberto was going to “soltar la lengua” (Tattle. Lit. Let go of his tongue) Ivonne asks Pastor if “Le pagaron con la misma moneda?” (Heriberto did the same thing to you that you did to me? Lit. Did you got paid with the same coin?) Yvonne thinks that Heriberto wants to take advantage of Pastor. Pastor says that that is the story of his life. He wants to talk to Juan and make things better. He tries to tell Yvonne what he’s planning to tell Juan, when Yvonne starts complaining of a stomach ache. Pastor tells her to go home, to rest because she can’t get sick now that the company is in such a pickle.

Fer and Juan are working in the office. Fer is trying to explain to Juan the difference between the net profit (Ganancia neta) and gross profit (Ganancia Bruta). Juan is totally distracted and drawing a yellow heart with Paula’s name in it. Fer asks Juan to repeat and explain what he just told him, Juan tries, but ends up recognizing that – “La neta” (the truth) is that I’m very “bruto” (dense). Fer says that even if they stay all night he won’t be able to teach him everything that he needs to know to defend himself against Paula. Juan insists that he needs to show his “palomita” that he is as good as she is. Fer reluctantly agrees and starts explaining about business viability. Juan silently prays to God to help him concentrate.

Kike arrives at Casa Cachon and finds Nidia crying in the dark. She tells him that this life is like a circle it goes round and we end up at the same place we started. Kike wants to know why she is so moody. Nidia cries more and tells him that she is losing the house. She has to give it up in exchange of her and Delirio’s freedom.

At Ana’s house, Ana enters Paula’s room; Paula is surprised that she is still there. Ana explains that she did not go to dinner because she didn’t feel like going out. Paula wonders if maybe, just maybe Ana is afraid of going out with such a handsome guy. Ana denies it and asks Paula to please change the subject of the conversation.

Back at Casa Cachon, Marely is now sitting with Nidia. Nidia is still crying and asking why, oh why these things happened to her? Marely voices my own thoughts and tells her that she (Nidia) knows exactly that this happened because she changed the will and stole the money. Kike tells her that at least she is still alive. Nidia says that she would prefer to die; she doesn’t want to see the fall of Casa Cachon. Marely tells her that she (Nidia) is very strong and always found the positive side in all situations, this shouldn’t be different. Nidia tells her that before she only lied to herself; her whole life is a big lie. –Tell me; tell me what do I have to show for all this years? Kike reminds her that at least she has been happy. –Happy? I have laugh, but I haven’t been happy. Marely tells her that at least she has been able to laugh, there are people that can’t even do that, and at least she has shown them (Yadira and Marely) how to laugh. Nidia reminds her that in reality Yadira and Marely have a very bad temper, and all is because of her. Nidia says that it is her fault that her airhead of a daughter is leaving in who knows what conditions, and that her despicable husband is in jail paying for the crime of loving her.

Cut to that despicable husband jumping a little fence with a shovel, he walks a little and starts digging (So I guess his great idea is to make a tunnel)

Laura called Juan at the office and tells him that she just wanted to say good night. Juan sends kisses thru the phone and Fer tells him that Laura is really crazy for him. Juan says that he is tempted to go out with her, but his heart won’t let him. Fer wonders what happened to the womanizer that arrived to Mexico City, the guy that had so many women at his feet. Juan says that he thinks that he left him at Achichipico. Fer suggests to bringing him back and to take advantage of this opportunity. Juan says that he’ll think about it but right now he has to concentrate all of his efforts in showing everybody that Campeoni is a very bad business. Fer hesitates a little and then tells Juan that in reality all the documentation that they have been revising shows that Campeoni is a really good business. Juan looks crestfallen, but Fer tells him that they need to go home, relax and then they will think about what to do, besides, Juanito needs to rest. Fernando tells Juan that he’ll take them home. They leave; Juan carries Juanito in his arms.

At Casa Cachon Kike is telling a story to his daughter. Marely has been observing him and tells him that she doesn’t understand why she didn’t fall in love with him; she describes his qualities, and tells him that he deserves the best woman in the world. Kike tells her not to get moody like her mother, because he won’t be able to deal with two depressed Cachon Ladies, and jokingly tells her that if she wants to have the Bueno Lindo last name he is available. Marely calls him a liar; she knows that he is still in love with Yadira. Kike recognizes that he is still in love and tells her that they (Yadira and Kike) ate together. Marely is impactada

_______________________ This is the missing part.


Cut to Yadira at the Shed of Shocking Shakiness, she is cooking or doing something, when Nacho arrives and tries to kiss her. Yadira says that she is not in the mood. Nacho tries again but Yadira doesn’t budge; Nacho tells her that he’ll find a job soon, she needs to be patient. Yadira says that the problem is that she can’t stand the place. Nacho says it is just for the moment, he’ll find a job soon. Yadira doesn’t believe him and says that the situation won’t change and it is better if she leaves. Nacho tells her that all the beginnings are hard, but together they can overtake all of their problems. Yadira answers that there are a lot of things that she could tolerate; he could “ponerle los cuernos” (go out with other women), could go out to get drunk with his friends, but there are two things that she can’t stand 1) She can’t be away from her daughter, 2) she can’t be away from… her TV.

At the Cachon residence, Kike is telling Marely that Yadira told him that she wanted to see her daughter, but he knows Yadira and she was too nice to him, he suspects that Yadira is not happy with “Profesor Tapete”. Marely asks him if he would be willing to forgive Yadira if she wanted to come back. Kike says that he loves her with all of his soul, and maybe under his own conditions he would let her come back. –Haven’t you heard that love that is not able to forgive is not love?

Back at Topete and Yadira’s place, Yadira is still scolding Nacho, she tells him that the clock is ticking and things are the same, all of these problems are affecting the way she sees him, before she admired him, but now… Nacho says that there is still love between them –Do you love me? –If I didn’t love you I wouldn’t be living in this match box, without my daughter. Nacho asks her to be patient, but Yadira doesn’t want to hear his excuses anymore. She lets him have it and yells at him that he is a “mediocre”. Nacho affirms that everything is going to change very soon, all they need is a “Picudo” (successful person) that resides out of the country and wants to come back, once that person comes back, they’ll have all the money they need; they will buy a big house with plenty of space. Yadira tells him that she had that already. Nacho tells Yadira to trust him; pretty soon he’ll buy her a huge TV set, plasma, HD that will go from wall to wall. Yadira likes the sound of that and asks hopefully –Really? Nacho grasps the opportunity and tells her that he promises, and all he needs is a little bit of time. Yadira looks half convinced.

At the Cachon residence, Juan is puting Juanito on his bed, and thought bubbling how important Juanito is for him, he wishes he could protect him from the boys that are bothering him, but he knows that he needs to let him grow and take his own decisions; he decides that he’ll talk to Maestro Pomposo and will ask his opinion. He also thinks that he was very worried for Juanito, he wonders how can God take care of so many sons if most of them are irresponsible and ungrateful.

Paula is in bed hugging his Teddy Bear and remembering when she asked Juan for forgiveness. –I did want to ask for forgiveness, why did you change so much Juan? (Honey you are the main reason for Juan’s change)

Back to Juan in the office of the soon to be ex Cachon residence, he is going once more over all of the papers of the Campeoni deal. He thought bubbles that he was very sorry for not finishing school because he couldn’t understand anything, and he doubts that there is somebody that could comprehend those papers. Not even Mandrake the Magician nor Kaliman could understand them, he knows that the only reason he is opposing the deal is because Paula wants the deal to happen. He says to himself that he can’t “achicarse” (back off. Lit get small) in front of Paula, however he recognizes that before her beauty he has no other option. While he tough bubbles, we are treated to scenes of his relationship with Paula. I had forgotten how good he looked with his hair short… but I digress again. We hear the “hay amor” song.

Juanito enters the office and tells Juan that he had a nightmare. Juan asks if it is because of the thugs, and when Juanito doesn’t say anything, he suggests a change of school. Juanito says that he doesn’t want the thughs to think that he is afraid. Juan is proud of his child and tells him is time to go back to bed. Junito just has one more question. Why are Don Lorenzo and Doña Pepita separated if they love each other?

Cut to Delirio digging a hole. I don’t know if I’m right since I have very little experience digging holes; but I can tell that the actor doesn’t even know how to hold a shovel, and yet after a few minutes (It might be hours in Novela land) we see Delirio inside a big hole.

Back to Juan and Juanito, Juan tells him that when 2 people are fighting and neither one wants to back off; there is no way to resolve the problem. Juanito asks if it is the same as when mules don’t obey, Juan laughs and says yes, it is exactly the same. He also tells him that there is a need to have a mediator to fix the problem. Juanito asks who the mediator between Don Lorenzo and Doña Pepita is. Juan hesitantly says –me.

Marely goes to Nidia’s room to talk to her. Nidia is still crying. Marely tells her to see the good side of things; this is an opportunity to star all over, to change. Nidia is not too sure; she says that now the daughter is teaching the mother. She also says that to start anew sounds very romantic, however in real life is not that easy. Marely tells her to see the example of Licenciado Pelafan he was able to change.

Cut to the “changed” man, Delirio is now sleeping in the big hole. A group of men (I think they are Cops) approach and wake him up asking him what is he doing. Delirio doesn’t know what to say, and just laughs nervously.

The End.

Labels: Juan

Sheesh, another filler episode. They should be doing better for Fridays--no? Sorry to post this late, but I had a computer malfunction yesterday.

Alex sees Gamuza in the street. He is waiting for Mili. He says lots of people are sick in the barrio, particularly Chiquis, his "cuate" (guy, pal).

Mili is back to kicking in the door at Andrea's apartment. Karla tries to tell Hugo that Mili is banging the door at the wrong apartment. She is looking for her husband and suspects him of having an affair. Problem--Hugo recognizes Mili's voice, but doesn't remember more than that.

In the barrio, the grandfather of Chiquis is worried that his little boy is dying and he hasn't a cent to pay. Alex calls a doctor friend who gives antibiotics for a severe infection. There's some interplay with Gamuza's bad father again. They confide in Alex that their local clinic and school are flooded or destroyed by big rainstorms. They are having a festival the next day, and they invite Alex.

Damien yells at Bobby for screwing up. If he does it again, he'll cut off his head--metaphorically speaking.

Mili tells the girls that she found Hugo at the house of the grenuda (skank). I wish I knew how to enter the tildas and accents, but I don't. Grenuda has a tilda.

Alex tells Granny about the clinic and the festival. She is proud of him for helping. She agrees to go with him the next day. She says he should not tell Connie and Luci.

Lina is talking to Rocky. Val comes over and demands that Rocky get the car. She tells him to stop being an igualada and obey. Lina scolds Val for playing with the feelings of Booby and Morgan. Val says Lina is an igualada too, like her friend Mili, the mugrosucha. (another expression for lowlife).

Horacio goes on a date with Socorro. I'll compress all those scenes into one. After the dinner, they come back to her little room. He wants to kiss her and more, but she says she is not ready. She has never been with a man since her "incident." He says he will wait till she is ready. Later he proposes. They kiss. Karla walks in on them. Horacio leaves the kitchen. Karla excoriates her mother's choice of a gardener with no future. Socorro defends him--he's the sweetest man alive and he really cares for her.

Alex talks to Granny about missing Hugo. He tells her that Mili has spoken to Hugo but no more. He says Hugo is a farsante (faker).

Val goes over to see Snouty (Pilar). Snouty rehashes the incident at the cabin. If Bobby hadn't stopped her she could have killed Alex. She is sorry for what she did, but she is still outraged at they way Alex treated her--it shouldn't be allowed. You know what else should not be allowed? The hideous black and red flowered negligee she is wearing. She concludes by acknowledging glycerin tearfully that Mili and Alex really love each other, and they shouldn't be separated.

Karla tells Hugo that she's going over to visit her mother. He's all hot up to go, but she puts him off. He agrees but jokingly asks her to buy him some striped pajamas to wear in his prison cell.

Mili asks Granny permission to look for Hugo. She tells her she saw him, and he was clearly kidnapped. How could that be, asks Granny? Mili says she knows the sin but not the sinner. Alex comes in and hears that she saw Hugo.

Damien is making some kind of deal on the phone. He calls Beltran and leaves a message. Andrea comes in, and Damien wants to know how Karla came to be living at the skank's house.
Why--what's the problem--you're sorry your girlfriend left you? He says that Andrea and Karla should get along well--they both sleep around for money. Anyway, he realizes that Karla is a problem and Andrea should keep her away.

He asks her to have Connie sign blank papers for future use. She refuses. She says leave it to her--she has Connie eating out of her hand. She drives him crazy in the bedroom. He wants to know why she's so confrontational. 'Cause it bothers her that he wants to use her. Takes one to know one.

Granny and Alex go to the festival and vow to rebuild the clinic and school. Cheers all around.

I'm skipping ahead, but the next day, Granny and Alex go to work on the project. Granny sits at a small table and takes inventory of the lumber. When they seem to be running short, they vow to pay the rest.

Peralta comes in and leers at Andrea. She looks revolted when his back is turned but is all smiles to his face. Damien calls him in to his office. He reveals to Damien that he had that little fling and asks that Damien keep it from Peralta's wife. They discuss the interference with Connie's campaign. Peralta warns Damien to watch over Andrea.

Mili enters the reception area. She wants Andrea to give up Hugo. Andrea plays dumb. Anyway, why should Mili care--she left Hugo standing at the altar. N0, Mili says. Alex took her. Andrea should not change the subject--she saw Hugo at Andrea's building. One thing here--it looks like skanky is not even bothering to be interested in Alex anymore.

Mili and Andrea keep yelling. Mili grabs Andrea and says that if she doesn't tell her what she wants to know she'll find out herself. Connie hears the hubbub and comes out. Andrea utters the fateful words we heard on the avances: Get your daughter off me! Impactada looks all around. Well, here's the unsurprising resolution. Mili says, What did you say? I'm the boss's daughter? Hah, he should be so lucky. Connie tells Mili to go into his office.

He asks Andrea what she was saying. She says that she didn't know what she was saying. Ignore her stupidity. He says, no, it sounded like you know exactly what you were saying. No, no, she says--why? Is she your daughter? Since he won't admit it, they come to a standoff. He thought bubbles that he'll have to watch her more closely.

He then tells Mili not to do such things in the office again. She promises but asks if she can wait by the exit to do them there. He chuckles to himself. I liked that look, but I'm still disappointed in Connie.

Given his discussion with Peralta, Damien asks Andrea if she now considers herself the Mati Hari of her day. He always knew she was trash, going from bed to bed, but business is business. He now has more leverage over her, so he again demands that she help him get the blank papers signed. She says no, Peralta won't tell. Wanna bet, asks Damien. Don't be stupid, he says, we have to work together.

Karla catches Horacio in the yard. She tells him to keep away from her mother, or her mother will lose her daughter. Poor Socorro.

At the girls' dorm, Mili tells the girls that she saw Hugo. Gloria thinks she must have seen wrong. No, says Lina. Mili has good eyesight. She eats carrots, and carrots are good for the eyes. Have you ever seen a rabbit with glasses? Bah-dum-pum.
Anyway, they realize this explains why Karla left her job.
My DVR cuts off here.

Labels: guapos

Pasión Aficionados: The Grand Finale Has Now Been Announced as April 25, Two weeks from tonight. Sigh.

With fond regards to some of my literary heros Donne, O'Neill and Hemingway: we go slogging onward with the scenes of terror in LaFont Land. After arriving late at the TGIF-fratboys outing where they have teased him about his pirate like eyepatch. Santiago aggravates his loss of standing in the boys club by informing Bouffy the Badazz that he has his father's authorization to name his own police inspector/manager (intendente in Mex.) of San Fernando. A scowling Bouffy then hears that Ascanio has been chosen and further Ascanio and Manuela get on well together (simpatizar). Enraged by Santi's words and the razzing from the other boys, he orders his horse. Why Ascanio, he's a nobody? Why not me for her husband chimes in wavy haired fratboy (sorry, I can't remember his name). Santi defends that Ascanio is his friend and such a decent person, Bouffy, further humiliated, rides off toward home.

Battling the plague and pestilence is so much pleasanter in contrast, as Ric is greeted by La Paisana. By the look of your face I can imagine the inferno you experienced last night. How are things going? BAD. There are new infected people. Where is Pablo? Not back yet. She sets up his bath things and with such gentleness asks him if his thoughts are with his wife. She must have had the baby by now. He thinks she has. Put the clothes here, I will come for them. Everything is going to come out fine. Ricardo prays with all his heart to heaven that this wife and baby are well.

Bouffy is an explosion in the making as he blasts past the abashed servants and begins screaming questions at Manuela about when and how often she met this Ascanio, whipping her with his coach whip, while she insists she has only seen Ascanio a few times. He screams that she is a whore and loose woman, you will be locked in here until I say so. He will finish off the low born Ascanio, he demands a virginity test from a midwife even swiping the whip at Nanny. Fran ducks in her head saying you are going to kill her. He lunges toward her and Fran disappears. Manuela sobs that she doesn't want one (probably neither the locking up nor the virginity certification). He then stomps into Fran and Lisabeta's room where Lis is hearing that Manuela has just been called a whore by Daddy Dearest, Lis's crack about Mannie's servant boyfriend Ascanio is cut short as Bouffy holds the whip to her throat and demands that his shame is not to leave the house and if anyone asks, Lis and Fran are to say she is sick. As he smashes his way out Fran and Lis share a knuckle biting moment about how dangerous this man is, Lis realizes that if Bouffy finds out the baby is Ric's he might kill him with his bare hands. Even the intrepid Fran's wig trembles as she adds that he might kill both of them too.

Ascanio is crossing the plaza in his fine looking clothing when he is accosted by three strange ruffians who determine he is Ascanio. He has been involved with a little doll who he shouldn't mix with and her father wants him castrated! They pound on him while people watch until the twins see the attack and approach with long sticks which are almost a match to the swords and knives. Ofelia yells for Vasco who also comes running in, hurling a box and then showing that his fighting technique has greatly improved. He then rushes to Ascanio who has been stabbed. Vasco screams for help, the twins struggle on until Santiago comes through the crowd on his horse. He jumps down grabs a sword from one attacker and makes short work of the villain. One clean sword plunge and voilá, Santiago has made his first kill! He throws the sword back on the lifeless body and ponders his action. Mom looks on in horror. An unconscious Ascanio is lifted up. Night falls and Santiago tells Jorge that it is inconceivable, there is no pardon from God. Santi assures him it was the work of Bouffy. Jorge hesitates that they don't know this for sure. Ascanio could have just stumbled on to these villains. But if it is Bouffy's work Jorge (for real playing the devil's advocate) can understand that a father might be outraged at someone seducing his daughter. Santi says there was no seduction, Ascanio is in love with her. He tells him Bouffy was outraged at his suggestion that Ascanio marry Manuela. Am I your true son or only a commoner? Jorge still defending says he can't make all things happen, even the king of Spain doesn't have absolute power. Besides, Bouffy is his long time friend and collaborator and so he has to reconcile viewpoints. Sofia sidles up to a screen and listens intently to the interchange with a smile. Santiago asks Dad, why can't you simply say no? I did say no, he is an impulsive man. He obviously contracted these villains to kill him. It seems you can allow this type of atrocities but I am not going to agree to it. Jorge with dry irony observes that if Ascanio had demanded the assassination of Ricardo you wouldn't have moved an eyelash.

Santiago stomps out and Sofia moves in. Jorge says, I suppose you heard every word? She nods then shrugs and says you have to choose between your son and Alberto. Jorge says this will cost me work, there's business between Alberto and I. Dirty business? Well, let's say it is barely correct... Do you have to protect him (amarrar) are you afraid he will betray you? It could be, says Jorge. Sofia goes on to say, Alberto is bad and he will betray you. If for some reason or other you get him in your way, Kill him. A dead dog is finished being a rapid/furious dog.

Vasco is being cleaned and tended to by the maid with the twins close by, Santiago appears still in his fine dress asking how is Ascanio. Vasco answers that he is really bad. The police came for the dead man and the others denied what happened. They express thankfulness that Santi showed up just in time. Inside, Ofelia is sewing up a big gash on Ascanio's bare side with Jemena's aid. Ofelia tells Santi that the wound is serious but Ascanio is strong and will survive. Ascanio protests to Jemena that he doesn't want scandals or to do anything, she pushes that it was Alberto, he needs to denounce them, but he just murmurs about Manuela, Manuela.

Back at LaFont's house, Nanny is telling Bouffy that the midwife has already come and Manuela is INTACT, she is a pure virgin. Jorge is announced in. What you did was stupidity! Bouffy isn't going to tolerate..! But Jorge insists that he has to listen. You came here from no where like any poor devil. Bouffy says I'm a nobleman (hidalgo). Jorge lowers his voice and says so you have told us, but it doesn't all fit, you could have been a thief, an assassin or pirate.. I liked you. I made you my friend, my partner my, my accomplice, and a VERY rich man. Now my son detests you and my wife advises me to kill you. If you persist in this, I'm not going to be left holding the bag (no me colmes con buche de piedritos).

On La Coralina, the priest is pressing his message of perdition on the frightened looking peasants and the disgusted looking pirates. He basically says by God's mercy they have been finally freed of this pestilence but it was brought on by their sinfulness and if they persist in their sinful ways, God's wrath will return. La Coralina is an island of sin, it is a Sodom and Gomorrah. After this cheery message that doesn't even mention the filth and rats, Ric meets up with Foreman who says your priests are always alarmists. The plague has ended and the port opens back up tomorrow to navigation. I have sent a message to all my capitans that we will meet on my boat in one week to plan our strategy for the attack. I am very sorry Antillano, but you will have to wait longer to see your beloved.

Sofia and Fortunata are strolling as Sofia tells of her concern that Camila is still so depressed but working with the children helps so much. This won't be forever? No, Santiago has sent to Vera Cruz for a professor to be at the school. Ascanio could be a teacher but now he is healing from his wounds and is back at work at the administration offices. Fortunata asks if he has had more problems with Don Alberto. No says Sofia but there is a new distance between Alberto and Jorge which thrills her profoundly. When will we see Manuela? Don't know, poor thing.

Camila is in the classroom with a munchkn by the hand teaching the classroom of cherubs about washing their hands before eating, praying at bed time and getting up the next morning. Sofia and Fortunata come in with baskets of sweets and fruits. The children will all get lunch, Camila looks a bit unthrilled when she finds out it was all Santiago's idea. Never mind, Sofia wants Camila to come speak to her later when school is out. Just to talk...

Once again Santiago is pleading with Justo that he can't get his extreme rightness across to Camila because she won't really listen. It has been six months since Rita died and 4 since Camila lost her baby. He can't understand how she can continue to feel so bitter against him. Justo listens with so much patience but finally advises Santiago that perhaps he should just forget about Camila. Santi is just bewildered (aturdirse) that Camila doesn't see the justness of his point of view. Justo slips in that she rarely ever talks about him at all...Undaunted Santi adds that everything he did was for her own good... Justo now Camila's good and true advocate counters with, She doesn't think so. Justo points out that Santiago lately seems to dedicate himself to worldly pleasures. Santiago excuses this because he is doing so much good with the professor for the school and the surgeon and health clinic, he is doing so much good. He can't forget Camila, he thinks about her constantly. Moments later he shows up at his Mom's house to learn that Camila is in with Ana Maria. He asks the maid to leave and tells Camila that they had agreed some time ago that they were above all still friends. Yeah, she remembers. Then why have you changed so much? She counters with circumstances have changed so much and that has changed their lives. She blames him and her father for the death of her child which he accepts but drives on with his rightness and quest for justice. JUSTICE, she says, I don't understand! He presses on that he can't believe that such a great love they had doesn't have something left to it. In fact he is really, really desperate for her. He wonders how she could have slept with this disgrace (Ric) after two days but she has never slept with him. She looks disgusted and he grabs her face to tell her more about his hot blooded craving and his rage at her love and lust for Ric. As she breaks away she says his mother is right, every day he is more like his father. Still not getting it, he insists they will clear this up. But she just leaves the room. His parting words are you owe me Camila, you owe me... [Huh?]

Camila approaches the palace and goes in while upstairs Sofia is telling Ursula that since she is so bored and has no girl friends she should come with her on a journey. She points out to Ursula that it is a real town much larger than San Fernando. Ursula says well take Fortunada then, I don't want to go. Camila is announce in Ursula sweeps out saying she is doing very badly. Sofia suddenly thinks why shouldn't Camila come with her. Come where? Sofia has an old auntie that died and left her an inheritance and she has to go see about it.

Mario is telling Ric that they cannot get to San Fernando and back in time for the big meeting of Foreman's. Ric is anxious to see that Camila is safe and sound in the village with their child but is worried because if they made her hide her pregnancy they may be hiding his child now too. La Pai tells him not to be so negative. Inside of a month he can be heading toward San Fer with all kinds of booty. He thinks differently, they could lose their skins in Puerto Paraiso. La Pai then asks what he will do with the little boy he is caring for? If the nun's list of the dead show that his mother died, he plans to keep the toddler with him. BREAK for halftime, and the score is: oh never mind.

Camila and Sofia discussing well where is this place? A little far from here on the coast. But what if Ricardo comes for me and can't find me? Well you've already had a long time waiting for him. Camila asks, do you all think that he isn't going to come? Sofia sagely says do you want to hear the truth or a kind answer? I just thought the journey would be partly for me to have your company and also a little distraction for you but if not, forget it. Doña Sofia, you have always been very kind to me, so I am going to ask you for a very big favor. Ricardo came to look for me when they had me in Garbancillo and he told Jemena that he would return to get me but it has been so long and I am desperate here. I lost my baby and even though I have my family, I feel very lonely. I need to go look for Ricardo. Where are you going to look? I will go with you and if we don't find him I will go on looking. If I leave here with you no one will suspect a thing and, she fights for a clear plan, and cries but Sofia, says, don't worry, I am going to help you.

Ofelia arrives home, asking the maid, Ramona, how is my granddaughter? She tells her that Camila and Santiago met there and had an argument then both left.

Camila coming across the plaza runs into Candida who had heard that Camila was sick. Candida then reports that she is working for Lisabeta and Francisca at Don Alberto's house and there is a child she is caring for that they have taken in that is Clotilde's nephew, a poor orphan. Since Candida is also a niece she is a bit puzzled about who this kid is. Camila asks how many years old is he? Oh, not years he is only a few months old. Camila gets a strange feeling in her stomach and the music should warn her that something is unsettling about this news... Well Candida has to hurry back or face trouble. Later Camila is sharing the real purpose of the trip with Ascanio, Jemena, Ines and she shares that she can figure out where Mario went last time. She knows she has to find La Iguana. Ascanio thinks it is maddness for a woman to go alone on this quest. Ines remembers that when Vasco and Bernabe went to look for her, they went to this village and she can ask Vasco where they went. Camila warns that no one is to know why she wants to know, apparently not even her brother Vasco.

It's tears and beers or whines and wines for old Santiago on his luxurious bed sulking and remembering when he had to go to Ric at night, but Ric told him it wasn't an appropriate time to wake up Camila. Santiago's message was that Justo was paralyzed. He cries or drools or both wondering why for Ric, it was yes but for him no, why or why. [Why indeed my pretty blockhead.]

Camila is a regular idea machine as she enthuses that Ricardo had plans to prove that the robbery of his wagons was really conducted by Jorge and LaBouffy. If they could find the proof and condemn the robbers, Ric could get a pardon. Ascanio looks nervous and says that that would mean condemning his boss' father and his father's best friend. It certainly is not going to make him popular at the office if he helps put Papa Jorge in jail.

Ursula comes into the mill office in an outfit that took longer to put on than the time needed to walk from the palace to the mill. She tries to seduce Vasco on the spot with kisses. He who has learned a lesson or two asks what she is doing here. He is leaving right now and he will escort her back NOW. She can't believe he isn't interested but he says he doesn't want trouble and further that he loves his wife. Ursula is in disbelief but he continues, while Ines sneaks up outside the door and listens with a worried look, it's true he didn't love his wife before but little by little he loves her so much and now realizes that she is the best thing that ever happened to him in his life. Ursula looks annoyed and finally leaves, Ines grins in her hiding place and Vasco breaks into a cold sweat.

Sofia explains the journey to Jorge, she needs to attend to the will and get some of the things that were her family's. Ursula flops in and announces that she will go on the journey afterall. Sofia tells her it will be rather crowded with four. When Ursula finds out that means Camila is invited she says well, uninvite her! No! As she exits, Jorge suggest that Sofia look for another husband for her.

Vasco crosses the yard to get the sexiest greeting with squeals of delight from Ines. They laugh and disappear quickly upstairs. [smart girl, Ines] In the afterglow, Ines with her head on Vasco's shoulder makes a playful questioning about the place were he and Bernabe went that time. It turns out through the finger play that it is San Jose to La Iguana on a secondary road and about three days apart. Vasco doesn't want to talk anymore, neither does Ines.

A serving man brings a very large trunk with clothes for Camila to make the trip in style. The maid finds out it is very heavy. Camila tells Justo she is going off with Sofia to see about her inheritance. Justo thinks it is a good idea for her to go. He gently tries again to say Santiago still loves you and what if Ric never comes back? You deserve a chance to have a happy life. Camila says unequivocally that even if Ric never comes, she will still never want Santiago.

Camila next has to tell Ofelia about the journey, Ofelia gently asks her about the disagreement with Santiago, but then they do blessings about the journey and Ofelia wishes her a safe and sound journey. She is going tomorrow!

As Camila starts off toward the carriage in her lovely dress, Ines walks along reciting the directions she got out of Vasco, take the path (vereda) to the village... Paco knows more than his father and asks if Camila is going to find uncle Ric. Yes. Well tell him I want that ride on his ship!

In front of the carriage Camila argues with Ascanio once again, he has fears of her going off alone, perhaps he better come with her. No! She kisses him goodbye. Jorge is advising Sofia about the dangers of a big place like Puerto Paraiso, it's a, well it's a big place... Fortunata appears with an enormous basket, cheerful even though she now doesn't get to go. She has empanadas, sausage, cheese, bread, fruit, sweets. Kisses all around except Santiago must look on with his poor-me eyes and gets a curt curtsey from Camila. He hopes the journey will help her get over her anger at him. After, he asks Ascanio what she said about him. Ascanio, with butter wouldn't melt in his mouth resolve, retorts, should she have said something??

Ascanio and Santi go off to the cafe for a meal. Santi offers him the big job again. Ascanio thinks perhaps it is too big. Santi says he knows that Ascanio will find out how dishonest Bouffy, Marcellino and the others... have been when he starts to audit the paperwork. Santiago says he wants to find some honest people to surround himself with so he can trust them when he becomes the Señor. He will be lucky to have one. hmm, what's happening with Manuela??

Later at the office, Marcellino trembles on tiptoe while wheezing out to Jorge that Ascanio wants to see EVERYTHING! They agree that there is a big problem with those little falsified import papers for Uriel's store. Jorge strides into Ascanio and basically bribes him that if he puts Santiago's worries to rest, he, Jorge, will help Ascanio win Manuela's hand. Ascanio wears that knowing look.

NEXT: LaFont is throwing another humdinger of a fit over Lisabeta's time with the baby. He justifies striking her because a husband has the right to punish an insolent wife. He wants her to get busy having his baby. When a woman doesn't get pregnant it is the woman's fault not the man's. oh Bouffy, oh Bouffy...

Labels: Pasion

I notice that the opening credits have changed to include more scenes of the story.

Everyone at the christening crowds around Soledad and Hugo. The murderous waiter makes an unobtrusive exit. Hugo sends Boris for Dr. Max. Inspector Duarte sniffs the wine glasses and declares that one of them contains more than wine and that Soledad was poisoned. Paquito volunteers a description of the waiter that gave Soledad the glass. The Inspector and the judge organize a search party. Eloisa tells Arturo that she hopes he didn't have anything to do with this and he says that he wouldn't be that stupid. Ester asks who would want to poison Soledad and Hugo mentions that he has lots of enemies and gives a look at Arturo.

At the House of Sadism, Alcides demands to know who he is or he will use the whip on Beatriz. She refuses and says that she would rather die than tell him. Alcides gets up unsteadily and gives her a blow with the whip. Beatriz screams. After three lashes, Beatriz is unconscious and Alcides is in tears. "She's pretty, delicate and completely crazy," he says.

Hercu-less carries Enrico into his house. Guillermo follows even though he can't see. Hercu-less is stomping Enrico when Rebeca comes in and makes him stop. She is asking Enrico questions when Guillermo attacks them with his cane. I guess Rebeca and Hercu-less are overconfident of their advantage over a midget and a blind guy but Guillermo extinguishes the light and they both escape.

Soledad is now in her bed but no one has taken her dress and corset off. (If I was going to die, I'd at least like to be comfortable.) Hugo says that Soledad is pale and cold. Hugo leaves Ursula with her and goes downstairs.

At the laboratory, Dr. Max tells Elena not to meddle in his affairs. He needs the blood to try and cure the baby's illness. Elena responds that she doesn't believe him. She knows that he wants to bring his dead wife back to life. She tells him, "the truth is that once people die, they don't come back to life." Dr. Max says that he would never do something like that. Elena responds that she overheard him telling the Cabinet of his Dead Wife that he would bring her back to life. Once again, Dr. Max says that he wouldn't do that. Elena asks if his dead wife is in that cabinet. At this point, Boris comes to fetch Dr. Max with the news that Soledad is dying.

Hugo comes downstairs to where the guests are waiting for news. He says that Soledad is unconscious. Ester and the rest of her family go up to her. Arturo tells Hugo that he hopes he believes that he, Arturo, didn't have anything to do with what happened to Soledad. He has sent his men to try and find the waiter. Hugo says that if he finds out that Arturo is behind this, he can say goodbye to the world. Gladis defends her son and they decide to leave. Eloisa goes with them reluctantly and outside she convinces Arturo that she should stay at the Hacienda because she was friendly with Soledad and she can convince Alcides of Arturo's innocence. Gladis buys this this little scheme and Arturo goes along reluctantly. Arturo and Gladis assume that Hercu-less is off searching for the waiter.

The murderous waiter, still with his white gloves on, is being pursued by Inspector Duarte and a posse of guests. The waiter regrets that he ever listened to that damned reporter. Paquito is trailing along with the posse and of course, he spots the waiter and swiftly kills him.

Ester asks Soledad's forgiveness. This is all her fault. Ursula says that Ester didn't have anything to do with poisoning Soledad and Ester says, "Of course not but I forced her to marry Alcides so that I wouldn't lose my house. A house that never should have been mine." (What does Ester mean by this? She has said before that the house belonged to her and had always belonged to her family. Are we getting some clues about her relationship to Jeremias?). Ester goes on asking for Soledad's forgiveness and saying that she should never have let Soledad come back to this house until Hugo comes in with Dr. Max.

Hugo comes downstairs while Dr. Max examines Soledad. Eloisa assures him that Arturo had nothing to do with what happened. Hugo says that of course Eloisa would defend her fiance. Eloisa responds that Alcides knows very well what happened between them and even if they can't be together, she still loves him and everything she has done, including agreeing to marry Arturo, is for him. Hugo appears stunned but before he had can say anything, Dr. Max appears.

Hugo asks Dr. Max about Soledad's condition. Dr. Max says that she does not have the usual symptoms of poisoning: abdominal and muscle pain. Rather, she is in a very deep sleep. She will just slip away. "Don't say that," says Hugo, "surely there is something that you could do." Dr. Max says if he knew what the poison was, he might be able to do something. At this point Marina pipes up and says that she has preserved the glass that Soledad drank from. (I guess the San Marino CSI team isn't gathering evidence in this case.) Dr. Max will run tests on the liquid in the glass and try to create an antidote to the poison.

The police find the body of the dead waiter. Inspector Duarte demonstrates his keen intelligence by saying that this murder is related to the Alcides de Medina situation and surely this man was killed to keep him quiet. Paquito wastes no time in suggesting that Arturo is the obvious suspect. Inspector Duarte tells him to keep his opinions to himself. It's too early in the investigation to draw such a conclusion.

Dr. Max identifies the poison that was used on Soledad and can create an antidote. Elena is about to leave to tell Alcides this when Eloisa comes in and asks to speak to the doctor in private. Elena leaves. Eloisa tells Dr. Max that he will tell Alcides that he has not found the antidote. "Why should I do that?" asks Dr. Max. Eloisa says that she is proposing a deal that could benefit both of them. "I'm not a murderer," says Dr. Max (we know that is a lie). "You're not an ethical doctor, either," responds Eloisa, "there are lots of rumors." Dr. Max says that he doesn't pay attention to rumors. Eloisa gets to the point. She saw him take blood from Aurora and he could go to jail for that. Dr. Max says that he doesn't let people threaten him and Eloisa responds that she doesn't let opportunities pass her by. Dr. Max then gives Eloisa the 'I'm trying to cure the baby of a serious illness' story. "Great," says Eloisa, "this business can benefit us both. If Soledad dies, I will marry Alcides and will be Aurora's stepmother. You can study her as much as you want." Dr. Max gives his evil smile - an unholy pact is made.

While on the road escaping from Rebeca's house with Guillermo, Enrico sees Jeremias and stops. The ghost tells him that Soledad is surrounded by many enemies and Enrico has to save her or she will die tonight. "What can I do to save her?" asks Enrico. We don't hear what Jeremias tells Enrico but he jumps back into the cart where Guillermo is saying to himself that the beating Enrico took must have been worse than he thought if he's talking to ghosts. Enrico tells Guillermo that he has to save Soledad and he needs Guillermo's help. "What a team," says Guillermo, "a blind guy and a crazy guy."

At the house of Sadism, Beatriz comes to. Alcides asks her again to tell him about who he is. Beatriz refuses. Alcides concludes that beatings won't make Beatriz talk. He has thought of something that might be more effective. "Don't you dare come near me," says Beatriz. Alcides says that he knows why he raped her, she is so beautiful. He couldn't control himself in the presence of such beauty. "Maybe," says Alcides, "if I gave you a little affection, you would give me the information I need." Beatriz says that he would have to kill her. She says, "I swear to you that I will defend myself like a wild beast before I let you rape me. You won't be able to do it." Alcides and Beatriz seem to have taken a break from beatings and rape and dozed off when there is a knock on the door. It's Dr. Pablo. Alcides covers Beatriz's mouth to keep her from making a noise. It appears that Dr. Pablo won't go away, so Alcides says that she has two options: make the visitor go away or Alcides will kill him. She agrees to the former and Alcides unchains her. She goes outside to speak to Dr. Pablo. He is worried about her and thinks that the guy she is living with is mistreating her. She tells him that everything is fine. Dr. Pablo wants to meet the guy. Beatriz says now isn't a good time. Dr. Pablo insists that Beatriz call the guy over and say that a friend wants to meet him.

The police tell Hugo that the man who poisoned Soledad is dead. He had a long criminal history and was pretending to be a waiter. (He wasn't pretending to be a waiter. He was hired as a waiter. Didn't Boris do a criminal background check on all the help for the party?) Hugo says that now we will never know who hired the hit. Paquito once again jumps up to incriminate Arturo (methinks he doth protest too much!) and Eloisa is annoyed. Hugo says that he doesn't think that Arturo would try and kill him in his own house. It's too obvious. "That's what I think," says Inspector Duarte. He tells Hugo/Alcides that they can't do anymore tonight but will continue the investigation tomorrow. The judge assures Hugo that justice will be done. They leave. Hugo tells Eloisa and Paquito to leave and he goes upstairs.

A sobbing Lucas tells Soledad that she is the only one who can help him. He can't live without her. (During this scene, we can see Antonia's hands telling her rosary beads behind him - nice touch). Antonia says that Soledad has been a good daughter. God won't let anything bad happen to her. (What has happened to Antonia? The old Antonia would be saying that God was punishing Soledad for all the sins she committed. On the other hand, Soledad has plenty of enemies. She doesn't need another one.)

Eloisa drags Paquito outside. She says that he can't fool her. He was behind all this. He wanted to kill Alcides. Paquito denies it initially but then tells Eloisa that he has helped her. If Soledad dies, she can have Alcides. "It's not that simple," says Eloisa, "if Soledad dies, Alcides will declare war against Arturo." "Then you'll change sides." responds Paquito, "You'll be Alcides' wife. Isn't that what you wanted?" Eloisa warns him that if Arturo kills Alcides, she will ruin Paquito and his career. (Why isn't Boris or Marina in the bushes hearing all this?)

Back in the sickroom (Soledad is still fully dressed with her jewelry on and what is Eloisa still doing there? She's not family.), Antonia says that Soledad looks dead. Hugo says that there is no need to mention death. Dr. Max will find an antidote. In comes Dr. Max with the bad news that he can't identify the poison so he can't find the antidote. Poor Hugo! He says Dr. Max must be able to do something. Dr. Max is not encouraging but he tells Hugo that he will take a blood sample and work on it at his lab.

Boris says to Marina that who could have imagined that this night could have ended with such a tragedy. Soledad is everything to Hugo. With a really evil smile, Marina responds that Hugo should be happy. He wanted to hurt Soledad and now he has achieved it. When Boris tells her that is nonsense, Marina says that Hugo acted out of his desire for revenge and didn't care about the consequences. She tells him that this is an example for them. If they stay with Hugo, things will end badly. They should leave. (You can pick your moments, Marina.) Of course, Boris says that he will never leave Hugo. Marina tells him that's fine but he has been warned.

At Dr. Max's, Elena can't understand what happened. Dr. Max tells her that the antidote didn't work. That's it. Soledad is going to die and he is going to bed. Elena says that she knows that Dr. Max has sold out to Eloisa. Dr. Max leaves and Guillermo and Enrico appear. Elena confirms that Dr. Max discovered the antidote for the poison but he won't reveal it. The diminutive trio decide that to help Soledad, they need Dr. Max's notebook that he keeps in his bedroom. A lot of silliness ensues but ultimately Guillermo grabs the notebook, Dr. Max threatens to kill him and Elena says that if Dr. Max harms Guillermo, she will destroy the vial of the baby's blood. (How big a threat is this? If his Eloisa achieves her plan, Dr. Max can drain the baby dry of blood.)

Hugo tells Boris that he never wanted to hurt Soledad, even in his worst moments. He just wanted to make her pay for her betrayal of him. He wanted her to fall in love with Alcides but he never wanted to harm her. How could he know that this would happen? Boris says that no one could have guessed things would turn out this way. Boris urges Hugo to put his faith in God and Dr. Max. Hugo says that if Dr. Max doesn't come up with something in the next few hours... Boris tells Hugo to calm himself that these mood changes are dangerous for his health and Hugo tells him to go away. (I can see how having someone like Boris be continually reminding you about having a catalepsy attack would be very irritating.) When Boris is gone, Hugo says that even if he hated her deeply, he would give his life to save Soledad.

Alone with Soledad, Hugo holds her hand and cries while tells her that he shouldn't have brought her to his house and exposed to her to so many risks. "Forgive me," he says, "I was blind. My heart was full of revenge. I love you. Even after the pain you have caused me, I love you. I admit it. You are my one, true love and you can't die because I love you." Soledad wakes up a little bit and says, "My love, why are you crying that way?" She doesn't understand what happened. Why does she feel this way? She asks about Aurora and Hugo says that the baby is fine and Ursula is with her. "Tell me the truth about what is the matter with me." she says to Hugo, "Am I going to die?" The credits roll.

Monday - Is Hugo going to tell Soledad the truth about who he is?

Labels: la traicion

We start with Vasco pleading with Camila to stay put, to not try to leave her family, as angry as she is with Justo and Santiago—there are the rest of them that love her and besides, she should stay and wait for Ric. Vasco’s certain that he will return for her. [If Cami were rational, she would probably be thinking that Vasco’s skill as a prognosticator is not all that great, re: the Letter, Bernabe, etc. Then again, she has no place to go really and she’s still weak.] She agrees to stay.

The next scene is the poignant graveyard scene. It’s clarified to her via Sofia that the reason that there was no name on the grave is because the baby couldn’t be baptized as it was stillborn. [There’s been some discussion in the comments about this and I think that was the thinking at the time, with regard to the theology, as practiced in the Catholic Church. No baptism for stillborns, (or last rights for someone dead more than an hour.) You had to have hope of the breath of life within you or no sacrament. And with no sacrament no Christian burial and no burial on holy ground. (Usually there was some place nearby reserved for infants who died this way.) It was a harsh view but as you can see by the attitude of the people toward religion in this town, it had its affect in encouraging people to live their lives within the rules, or pay a terrible price.] Everybody is in tears. Sofia starts to lead a prayer, the Anima Christi.

Sometime later, there is the dramatic meeting between Santiago and Camila, dressed in mourning. He says he’s sorry her baby died, that they were just trying to do what was right, to keep her from a life of sin with that man. Cami has none of it, she says that if they hadn’t taken her away, the baby wouldn’t have died. It is HER LIFE to decide what she wanted to do. She tries to cut him off by saying “Is that all you wanted to tell me?” Santiago says he came to ask forgiveness (even though he’s not sorry—because he continues to say he did what he thought was best—he’s just sorry it turned out causing her pain). Cami says that she wishes that he had killed her instead. Santi continues on that he has something else to tell her—Cami is like, whatever, we don’t have anything else to talk about. Santiago says that they were all waiting to tell her until she recuperated but ….Cami panics here and blurts out “DID something happen to RICARDO?” Santi says no. Rita. She died 3 months ago. After being impactada, Cami buries her hands in her face and nearly faints. Santi guides her to a chair and explains the riding accident. Cami goes into another crying and screaming frenzy and demands to know why she wasn’t told, that she had a right to know—it was her sister. Santiago can only offer excuses about her wellbeing and Cami angrily storms out of the room leaving Santiago looking deflated.
Night falls. Over in La Coralina, Ric is with Paisana, talking about his feelings. Ric says that ever since he heard that Camila was pregnant, he’s wanted even more to be at her side, helping her, watching his child grow inside her. Paisana asks when the Salamandra will be ready to go. Ric says in a few days but it’s going to seem like an eternity. He wants to be back with Camila, happy as Ricardo de Salamanca, not el Antillano the Pirate, raising their child. Paisana grasps his hands and tells him she’s sure he’ll achieve his dream, as long as he puts his head before his heart. Ric says he’ll try but it’s hard. He asks her about her and Pablo. Paisana says that little by little he’s accepting her and she thinks he will eventually. Ric says he’s happy to hear it.
Back in SF, Santiago is talking to Don Jorge in the Great room of the Mansion Mancera. [He’s learned to pour brandy from a decanter with one hand—quite the gentleman now.] He tells Jorge that Camila hates him now. Jorge says he’s sure it will pass. Santiago downs his double brandy with one glup and Jorge notes it, saying that the discussion must have been rough. Santiago says he’s tired and wants to go to bed. [He already sounds drunk—maybe he had a few before we came on the scene.] Jorge says no, he should go out—that’s the ticket when you are feeling low. Santiago protests at first but Jorge demands he go and Santiago has no resistance at this point.

And yes, Jorge’s idea of a good time for a man down in the dumps is the brothel! Next we see an even drunker Santi with a girl on his lap and Jorge on a couch with another one, with her head in his lap. Santi doesn’t seem to be having that good a time, so Jorge tells her to go with her friend and take him to a private room. The girl and her co-worker take Santi to a room and when the other girl leaves, she undresses the weakly protesting Santiago who is flopped on the bed. She gleefully insists that he has nothing to worry about (in his state) she’s capable of “raising even the dead.” She tells him to tell her what she wants.

Over in Garbancillo, the beatific Conchita is nursing baby Ric. She doesn’t know of course, that it’s not her baby—that’s she’s just a wetnurse. Dona Auxiliadora shows up with a basket of food and Conchita is all smiles about how she wants to make sure that Conchita has enough to eat while she is nursing the baby and she’ll make her some other home remedies too. Conchita calls her her guardian angel but Auxi reminds her that she’s only going to be doing this for the first two months, while she and the child recuperate from the birth. Conchita looks worried and asks what will she do when she’s still nursing in the 3rd month. Auxi says she’ll have to see what she can do for her. She leaves, with an ominous feeling in the air.
Justo and Cami are at church and he knows that she now knows about Rita’s death and is not pleased about how long in took them to tell her. “I never thought that I would never see her again,” she says. Justo says—but wait—there’s more! Before Rita died, she told us that YES the letter did arrive from Mariana island, telling us you were a captive there. (Camila is impactada). She was the one who received it, and she tore it up because she knew that if we rescued you, Santiago would never have married her. Camila nods through her tears. “You know, she must always have been in love with Santiago. She must have suffered a lot when we were together.” Justo agrees. “She was always jealous of you.” He tells her that she asked for her forgiveness and Cami replies that she had long since forgiven her…since she met Ricardo. Justo sighs at the mention of his name and tells her that she said some other things…Cami is curious. “What other things?” She asks. With tinkling baby music in the background, Justo gets down on his knees in front of her and actually gestures to her abdomen. “That you take care of Anamaria as if she were your own daughter and that you marry Santiago, who has always loved you.” Cami smiles and says she’ll be glad to take care of her niece. But marry Santiago? NEVER. She gets up and walks out of the church, past Inez who is sitting a few pews back. Inez reaches out to her and holds her back for a second. Cami turns back to her dad and asks where Anamaria is, and Justo tells her that she’s not at the Mancera Mansion, but with Ofelia at her house. She picks up her veil which has fallen and leaves.

Next we are at Ofelia’s house where Ofelia is playing with the baby. She tells her that she was just at the church praying and that she just found out that Rita had wanted her to take charge of the baby. Ofelia looks nervous. She tells her she already knows about it. Cami assures her that she isn’t going to take the baby away, she just wants to visit her from time to time. Ofelia smiles at this news and tells her she’s free to come whenever she wants for as long as she wants. Ofelia admits that she’s felt lonely, even though Ascanio and Jimena live there, they are gone most of the day. Jimena is helping out a lot. “But this little girl is my reason for living,” she says sadly. Cami smiles sadly in return.

Next we are in La Coralina where an 18th century version of a sound truck (a horse drawn wagon full of soldiers, with one guy yelling out an announcement) is blaring that in La Coralina, a quarantine is being announced against an outbreak of the plague. The crowds are not happy to hear this news and there is much wailing and gnashing of teeth. Meanwhile, inside the brothel where the pirates are holed up, Ric and Mario are still smiles. Mario has recovered and they are all ready to go. Pablo isn’t ready for a few weeks yet because his shoulder wound did hit a bone. Mario asks where he’s going (Ric is putting on his sword) and Ric says he’s going to check on the readiness of the Salamandra.

Back outside, we are getting the rest of the health and sanitation department bulletin. The plague outbreak in the Island of Our Lady of the Coral Reefs happened in the neighborhoods of La Tortuga (the turtle) and St. Brigida. Ric and Mario arrive just in time to hear that the port is closed to all ships indefinitely. Ric is floored. (Other quarantine procedures are announced, like rounding up of infected animals and their killing and disposal; plague victims are to be taken into specified areas to be separated from the general population.) Ric is cursing his luck that they didn’t depart yesterday. Mario suggests that they could run the quarantine but Ric takes a responsible attitude and says that he doesn’t want to risk one of his men being infected and spreading disease all over the place.

Back at the brothel, Ric’s public spiritedness continues and he announces that they are all going to chip in to help with the plague activities. Guero complains that he’s scared of catching plague and Ric says that’s an order. Magdalena, who is falling out of her dress as usual is similarly afraid of opening up the house to plague victims. Ric reminds her that the plague victims are Christians, and other pirates like themselves who live here with their families. Paisana says that she’s ready to help but she’s not sure what to do. Ric says that they are going to need lime (cal) and vinegar (disinfectants) and rags, to cover their faces to keep themselves from getting sick. Magdalena is still afraid and doesn’t want to get with the program. Ric asks her if she knows how to kill rats. She can stay in the house, if she agrees to kill rats since rats carry the plague. She doesn’t look happy with her new job. Mario asks Paisana if she knows were they can get lime and she says yes, of course. They all get up to find help and the supplies. Paisana looks over at the weepy Magdalena and tells her to start killing rats. “By myself?” she asks. Paisana says “where are the servants?” in disgust.

Outside, the plague is creating a panic. People are falling down in the street, stricken with it and it’s terrifying the populace. The victims have huge pustules. It seems to be striking down rich and poor alike. Ric and Paisana are helping people get out of the street and others are spreading lime everywhere. A plague announcer is ringing a bell, which is a little superfluous at this point.
Meanwhile, on quiet SF, Sofia and Camila are talking over all the recent events. Sofia explains that they couldn’t tell Camila about Rita under the circumstances and it happened so fast. Camila understands now but the only thing she cares about is that Ric return soon. Sofia is concerned that she seems paralyzed, she wants to see her happy again, with a desire to get out and do things again. She suggests working with others, teaching children in an orphanage or working with underprivileged women. Camila smiles and says that she’d like to help out and her smile returns.

La Font seems to have recovered mostly and now sports a brown eyepatch. He is chatting over possibilities with Jorge, that there’s a new caravan on the way and that they could make plans to rob it. Jorge sounds skeptical. Who would they sell the silver to? LaFont says they could melt it down. He pauses and suggests that they could involve Santiago this time. “You said that your relationship with him is going well.” Jorge gets up suddenly and says no. He doesn’t want to involve him. La Font says that Uriel and Mateo are interested in doing another job. If Jorge doesn’t want to melt the silver, he could try to find another way to get rid of the contraband. Jorge says he doesn’t want to know. He’ll leave it up to them to get rid of it. LaFont asks if that means that he doesn’t want his share. Jorge says of course not. He’s owed a part as Lord. LaFont pauses and asks about Santiago and Camila. He laughs and wants to know if they are going to get back together. Jorge says non-commitally that “He always loved her.” LaFont opines that he doesn’t think that’s going anywhere and he again suggests his daughter. Jorge says that he’ll talk to Santiago, as he eats an apple. He asks after LaFont’s wife and LaFont says that Lis has been very understanding about the whole lost an eye thing. Jorge asks if she knows that it was Ric that did it. LaFont says no. He prefers that she not know that he is still alive. Jorge nods thoughtfully.

In Church, Camila arranges some gladiolas in front of a statue of the virgincita. She prays for the soul of her child and for Ric to return ASAP.

Meanwhile, in la Coralina, Ric has his hands full with the hysterical population. He helps a soldier lead a woman away from her dying husband as he’s loaded up in the plague wagon.
Camila and Ofelia visit again, with the baby and Camila remarks at how much Santiago has changed. It was Santi who saved Ric’s life on the fateful night when he was stabbed and shot but now he’s determined to kill him. Ofelia says she knew it all along. Power corrupts. She asks about Camila. She tells her about her helping in an orphanage as suggested by Dona Sofia. Ofelia thinks this is a great idea. She asks about her relationship with her father and Camila’s smile vanishes. Ofelia suggests that she try to patch things up with him. She says that when Camila was sick, he had second thoughts about whether he should have let her leave with Ricardo. Camila is impactada and smiles and returns to playing with the baby who has Ric’s watch in her hand.

Camila goes to talk to Justo. Justo is praying in front of a statue of the virgincita. She goes to him and they make small talk. Then she closes the door and says she forgives him and that she wants peace between them. He says that she should never doubt that he loves her. She tells him that she is a woman and she deserves to make her own life. And she wants him to understand that if Ric comes back, she’s going with him, wherever he goes. He cries but nods his head in understanding. She leaves and he turns back to the home altar to mutter a prayer of thanks.

In Garbancillo, Auxi is holding the baby at Conchita’s while she is drinking some soup. Just as Conchita holds the spoon to her lips, Auxi drops the anvil on her—“This baby isn’t yours.” She’s impactado and then freaks out. “How can it not be mine!” She screams, putting the spoon down and rushing her for the baby. Auxi relays the story of how the night that gave birth—there was another woman there who was dying and that Conchita’s baby died and she switched the babies. But as it happened, the other woman didn’t die and that she wants her baby. Conchita isn’t buying it. She cries and screams that she wants her baby. Auxi tries to tell her repeatedly that this isn’t her baby but she’s upset and won’t listen. The baby wails in the background.

Over at Jorges’ Santiago is eating with his Dad. Jorge points out that if this thing with Camila isn’t working out, there are other fish in the sea. Santiago says that right now they’d be living happily as man and wife if he hadn’t intervened long ago. Jorge says that they’ve already covered that ground and he agreed to let it go. Jorge shifts the topic to tell him that LaFont is offering him his daughter Manuela. Santiago says no way. Jorge says why not, Manuela’s pretty and well behaved. Santiago says no, he’s not giving up on Camila and anyway Manuela is in love with Ascanio. Jorge says that that can’t go anywhere seeing that Ascanio is a servant. Santiago points out that Ascanio isn’t a servant, he’s a bureaucrat now. Jorge is like, whatever. Santiago says he’s a blacksmith. Jorge says, yes, but you are my son. Santiago turns to talk about LaFont. Who is he, after all? All he knows is that he arrived there quite a few years ago. Jorge says he really doesn’t know that much about his past. All he knows is that he arrived with money. “And you made him into your general administrator” continues Santiago by which he made even more money. “Much more” agrees Jorge. Santiago asks “what happens if I make Santiago into the new administrator? “ Jorge says you can if you want to. “But Alberto isn’t going to like it.” Santiago asks if Jorge always does what pleases his friends. Jorge looks at him sharply and says “You are not going to have an easy enemy.” Santiago complains that he’s already got a hard enemy, Ricardo de Salamanca. Jorge is surprised that he is still thinking about going after him. Santiago says of course he is. He turns on his heel and leaves. Jorge says to no one in particular that his son has more guts than he does, but then again, he’s a lot younger. He takes another swig of wine.

At LaFonts, a well dressed little boy rings the bell and the porters come running. After clarifying that it is indeed Don Albertos, the boy asks for Clotilde. He says that he’s her nephew and he’s bringing her a message. He tries to sneak in while one of them checks but the other guy keeps him from going in. Clotilde comes out and tells him that she knows he’s not her nephew so what’s the deal? He tells her that he’s come with a message from Auxi that the baby is ready and to have her money. Clotilde says to wait right there and she’ll return.

And speaking of babies, over in plague ridden Coralina, Paisana and Ric are bathing a baby boy at the brothel and look like they are having fun. Paisana and Ric talk over the plague developments. Pablo says things are really bad over at St. Bridgida. And they took the mother of this child. When Paisana asks if he thinks she’ll make it, he shakes his head. She asks what he’ll do with the baby and Ric says he promised the mom that he’d look after him and he will. Paisana says that he can count on her. She worries that he will get sick. Ric says that’s why they all have to help. He leaves and she tells the baby that the Capitan is a good man, while she finishes bathing him.

Meanwhile, Lis is with her doll when Fran and Clotilde come in with the baby. They hand him to her and she asks how he is. Lis’ eyes fill with tears as the baby cries. She bounces him up and down. She says that he’s her little piece of heaven, that she’s going to keep him with her always. Fran wants to know how she is going to explain the baby to LaFont. Fran says that she’ll tell him that he’s a nephew of Clotilde’s who was orphaned. Fran thinks LaFont will suspect something. He’s not stupid. Lis makes plans to bathe the baby and get it new fancy clothes. Clotilde says she can do all that. Fran says, OK, she’s held the baby, now better give her back to Clotilde. Lis is reluctant to give the baby up. She asks if the baby has been baptized yet and apparently it hasn’t. Lis says this is what they will do—it will be baptized and she will be the godmother. And they will call the baby Ricardo. Fran doesn’t like the sound of that. Lis says they will name him for Ricardo’s father.

Later Fran and Clotilde are out with the baby picking out fabric for clothes when Camila happens by and Clotilde gets nervous. Fran tells her not to even look at Camila. Camila walks on to greet the twins at the forge. They exchange pleasantries but after the small talk, they admit that things are a little uncertain since Santiago never comes by the forge anymore. One of them backs up and explains that they understand that he has more important things to do now. Camila shakes her head and says that what needs to happen is that people need to see you as the heads of the shop, not Santiago. She leaves.

Back in La Coralina, Ric is directing the plague relief, with a corpse over his shoulder.
At LaFont’s, Lis is checking out the baby’s new clothes. She things they are good but could be better. Fran thinks they are sufficient, since the baby is not a little aristocrat. Clotilde suggests her niece as a nanny/wet nurse since she’s already suckling a child. Lis agrees. Manuela comes in and makes a fuss over the baby. Fran gives her the story about it being a child from Clotilde’s family that was left an orphan and that they will baptize it Pedro and she’s going to be the godmother. Just then LaFont comes in and wants to know what’s going on. He tells her that being a godmother implies responsibility and he doesn’t want her to get involved. He picks up the baby hands it to Clotilde and tells her to take it away. LaFont tells Manuela he wants to talk to her and they both leave. When they are left alone, Fran tells Lis that she told her that this wasn’t going to be easy. Lis is not happy.

La Font is tossing Manuela around in her room. Manuela pleads with him that she hardly ever sees Santiago even though she goes to visit Ursula daily. He never even looks at her when he’s around. He yells that she needs to try harder. She asks if he offered her hand to Don Jorge. He says yes but he hasn’t said anything yet. Meanwhile, she needs to try harder. He leaves. She gets up and sits at her desk and writes.

In la Coralina, The plague continues and the dead and dying are lying in the plaza. It’s horrible. Priests are giving last rights, en masse. Ric carries a wheelbarrow full of corpses.
Next we see what Manuela was writing—a letter to Ascanio which he receives. In it she tells him that her Dad offered her hand to Jorge (for Santiago). Ascanio looks stricken. He gets his coat and leaves. He tries to go see Santiago but they have both taken off. He leaves the doorman with a message to tell him that he was there.

We go to where Santiago is, under a canopy in a wooded area, partaking of food and drink with Dad and his cronies, minus LaFont. La Font rides up at that moment and they all laugh. When he asks why they are laughing, Mateo says that with the patch, he looks like the last pirate left in San Fernando. LaFont doesn’t think this is funny and goes to draw his sword. Jorge tells him to cool it, it’s just a joke. He cracks further that now he can’t cry even if he wanted to. Uriel thinks this is so funny he chokes on his wine and spits it out. LaFont is even more ticked. Mateo says he doesn’t think that he should care, since his wife can’t see him anyway. Now LaFont is really mad and draws his sword and points it at Uriel who is standing the closest to him. Jorge tells him to cool it, they are all drunk. Besides, he should talk to Santiago. He did and Santiago seems to be fixated on Camila. LaFont asks if he rejected his daughter. Jorge says, not exactly but since he’s so concerned about marrying her off, he’d like it if he married his daughter to ….Ascanio. LaFont is not happy at all at this news. “A servant?!” Santiago stands up at this point and says that he’s no longer a servant but a public functionary and that he has Dad’s authorization to make him “Intendente” of San Fernando. LaFont is furious and asks for his horse to leave. Mateo complains about Ascanio getting this plum job and wife but Santiago tells him that he’s his friend and a decent man. Jorge looks at him and says that’s the way it is.
Back in Coralina, Ric and Paisana confer about the Plague developments (Bad). Pablo’s still gone. She asks him how he is and whether he thinks the baby has been born. He thinks so. He takes off his plague infected clothing and puts it in a basket—stopping to think of Camila and the baby far away.

LaFont arrives back at home in a fury. He kicks the door open past the frightened porters and asks for his daughter. She’s with her Nanny talking about Ascanio when he blazes in and slaps her screaming “where did you meet this man?” Nanny Agata is freaked out. He slaps her and brandishes his whip. She’s already got a few marks on her face. When he goes for Agata, Manuela tries to hold him back but he whips her face and calls her a whore. Fran comes in suddenly to find out what’s going on and he runs her out of the room. LaFont announces that he’s going to kill Ascanio and when she pleads with him, he grabs her by the hair and puts the whip at her throat, screaming at her that she’s going to marry who he wants. He tosses her aside and stalks out. Manula screams that she loves him and cries to Agata.

He walks into the room with Fran and Lis and says that his “daughter has gotten involved with that lowlife Ascanio.” Lis laughs and says “the servant?” LaFont isn’t in a laughing mood and holds a whip to her throat. He tells them not to let Manuela leave the house and that if anyone asks, she’s sick. He storms out and Fran and Lis confer about Manuela. Fran thinks that he will kill her if she isn’t dead already from the beating he gave her. They agree that LaFont is very dangerous. Lis thinks aloud that if he finds out that the baby is Ric’s he’s capable of killing it with his own bare hands. “Us too! says Fran.”
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Next time:
Santiago pleads his case with Camila and asks again why Camila slept with Ric but never with him. She’s again not happy with the question but he has to go there and asks if she thinks he’s less of a man than Ric. He grabs her face and acts like he could have her if he wanted. Cami spits back at him that she agrees with Ofelia—every day he seems to resemble his father more.

Labels: Pasion

Repeat of yesterday’s scene at the cabin, where Mili emerges from the bathroom in a towel, and she and Alex are about to get real romantic when Bobby bursts in, followed by Pilar, who is brandishing a gun.

On to the new: Mili cowers behind Alex while Pilar tells Alex off, aiming the gun right between his eyes. She cocks it. Bobby grabs her from behind and takes away the gun. Alex tells Mili to run to the bathroom. Disarmed, Pilar is deflated and she puts her hands on Alex’s chest and sobs Why? Why? Why? She crumples slowly, running her hands down his nekkid chest and maybe copping a little feel. He takes her face in his hands and begs forgiveness. He says what use is a man with no heart? I don’t have one – I gave it to Milagros. Mili in the bathroom doorway overhears.

Karla is taking Hugo, who has his head bandaged and a neck brace, into “our little nest” which of course is actually Andrea’s place. She asks if he remembers it and he says no. He needs to go to the bathroom and she tells him the way, then sits down to write a note which she then tucks into her purse. Andrea comes in and Karla starts to fill her in, but here comes Hugo. Karla says look, here’s Andrea, our roommate, do you remember her? No. Andrea says she’s going to go rest a bit.

Hugo, looking bewildered, says he wants to start doing things for himself. He’ll make some tea. He wanders aimlessly a bit in the kitchen. Karla says she’s got to run do something, and he mustn’t open the door to anyone. If he needs anything, ask Andrea. She gives him multiple besitos and leaves, and he blinks repeatedly, trying to get oriented.

Back at the cabin, a subdued and quietly weepy Pilar explains that she got the gun from Connie’s desk and Bobby says he’s sorry – he didn’t realize he was leading Pilar to Alex and Mili. Pilar is very tired and miserable, her voice is soft and squeaky. Alex is sweet with her and again begs forgiveness. Why? she asks again. I didn’t deserve that – I love you. I didn’t deserve to be left alone in the plane like that, 14 hours both ways. Alex reaches to touch her, and she says don’t touch me! Mili comes out and tells Alex maybe he’s making things worse and he should step away a bit. Alex and his pecs retire to the bathroom.

Mili puts her arms around Pilar, who says please take me away from here, I feel so alone. Hmmm – is this an act? Outside the cabin, Pilar asks Mili to drive her – does she know how? Heck yeah, Mili says, they taught her at the convent. Alex comes out and asks if she can drive and she gives him a bit of funny attitude. He says he’ll follow, but she notes he threw away the car key. It’s okay, I have the duplicate, he says. What a boy scout! Always prepared! Bobby is still there, watching.

Mili gets in Pilar’s car and gives herself reminders on what to do. Suddenly she backs up and almost hits Alex’s car. He comes over – she needs to put it in D for drive, not reverse. Off she drives over the lumpy terrain, Pilar apparently already asleep. Bobby and Alex are about to follow in their two cars.

Luci and the sorry-looking writer are working on her biography. He tells her that saying she married in one of the most imposing churches in the country may be true, but it’s boring. He says how about a wedding in a tiny pueblo, with Connie having abducted her for their wedding. Luci loves it! Yes! He carries me away after having convinced me with his kisses, his caresses! The writer says a good read needs three things: First, an unforgettable love. Yes! says Luci. Second, a big fortune, which is given away to the poor at the end. Luci says well… And third, a mystery, suffering, troubles. (I just noticed that not only does the writer have giant dandruff flakes on his coat, he is also wearing a red rose boutonnière. Eat your heart out, Tom Wolfe.) Luci says no – what she wants is a glamorous biography that will make her friends envious. He says if she rejects his ideas, his price goes up. She says okay, just write what I tell you. They are getting cranky with one another. But they both perk up when they return to the abduction story.

The three cars are driving slowly on a very primitive road almost overwhelmed by vegetation. Pilar is sobbing and bemoaning what Alex did. Mili is trying to focus on her driving.

Back to Hugo who is having tea and talking to Andrea. He says he and she must be good friends since they are roomies. She says yes. He asks how long he has been going with Karla and Andrea says some time now. He says were we really going to get married? Andrea says oh yes, she is your adoration, you had a hard time to convince her. He thanks her.

Karla is in the kitchen of Casa Belmonte telling her mother she has a job with Andrea now. Sorcorro is not happy – how could she do that to Luci, who’d just hired her as an assistant? I’m getting better pay and I’ll have a room all to myself, says Karla, I won’t have to share with your little friends. Plus, I already resigned from Luci. Karla turns to go, but Socorro says don’t leave me alone – you’re all I have. You’re not alone says Karla, you are surrounded by servants here. Don’t expect me to live the life you chose for yourself. Nothing is going to change my mind. I’m packing my bags and getting out of here – and don’t cry. Karla flounces out.

Karla goes to Hugo’s room and starts stuffing his painting things into a pillowcase. The note she had written earlier she puts on Hugo’s bed for someone to find.

Horacio comes into the kitchen and lays a flowery compliment on Socorro, then sees she is crying. It’s not the onions she says. Her Karlita has abandoned her. Horacio gives her a hug.

It’s dusk and we are on the street – it looks like Mili and Alex are walking Pilar to her apartment. Mili has a red coat on – I wonder where she got it – the cabin, maybe. Pilar tells Mili where the luggage can be found. Alex comes up and says again he is sorry, but she says I don’t ever want to see you again or talk to you again. Go to hell. Mili asks if Pilar needs company, but Pilar says thank you, but I need to be alone. She leaves.

Alex tells Mili he sorry about this whole Pilar thing. Mili says go talk to her. Alex says he didn’t deceive Pilar – she knew all along about his feelings for Mili. But Mili is worried – she looks so bad, Alex, I’m afraid she’ll do something stupid. Okay, I’ll go talk to her, he says, but only because you asked. He goes up. Turns out Bobby was there in the background. Will you give me a ride home? Mili asks him. He kindly puts his arm around her and they walk off.

In Pilar’s apartment, her face is absolutely coated with glycerin tears and he is saying they’re all worried. She says softly she just wants to sleep, that all she wanted was to have him near. He says he’s sorry – he never thought things would go so far as to hurt her so badly. He says I was always honest with you. She says go. But he says he doesn’t want to leave her alone. She says are you afraid I’ll do something stupid? I already did getting on that plane with you. I need not to see you, please just go. He reluctantly leaves, she shuts the door behind him and sobs. Okay, so maybe it’s not an act after all.

In the girls’ dorm, Lina and Gloria are sweetly making up. Gloria says I didn’t steal him from you, and Lina says I know. They hug. Mili comes in and the girls shriek with happiness. Group hug! Group dance! They want to know if Mili was with Alex. Yes, she says. The girls are thrilled. Mili asks about Hugo. Nobody knows say the girls, he drove off on a moto and disappeared. Maybe he did himself in, comments Gloria. Lina says shush. Mili is horrified.

Vale and Andrea are talking on the phone. They are worried about Pilar – her cell is off and there’s no answer at her apartment.

Mili is in the foyer trying to find out about Hugo from Damien. He says he has no idea. She says but you’re his papa! He’s fine, says Damien, he’ll show up. What do you want me to do? Call the police! Something! says Mili. Damien says let me ask you a question – where were you and with whom? Mili flees the foyer. She runs up to Hugo’s room and finds the note Karla left: “I’m not going to come back. Don’t look for me. Hugo.”

It’s dinnertime at Andrea’s place. She says she’ll turn in and she’ll leave the cleanup to Karla, who smirks. Andrea doesn’t even carry her plate and glass to the kitchen. Hugo confronts Karla – he saw her with suitcases, and nothing in this place seems to belong to her or to him. What is she hiding from him?

Mili is fleeing Hugo’s room and runs into Alex in the hallway. She is crying. He says don’t worry about Pilar – she just needs to get some sleep. It’s not that, says Mili. So you repent the time at the cabin? Alex asks. No, no, it’s not that – I will never forgive myself for what I did to Hugo. I killed him.

Don’t worry says Alex. It’s his choice to leave. At least everything’s okay between us. It’s not okay sobs Mili – it never will be. We’ve ruined the lives of Pilar and Hugo. She calls him something that gets bleeped. She runs off.

Karla is trying to answer Hugo’s questions about why their stuff is in luggage. She’s quick on her feet – she tells him they were going to get married, and he wanted to go live in Monterrey. Andrea was even looking for new digs. The bags were in a hotel room at the airport. I’m not telling you lies! she exclaims. He apologizes, saying it’s really stressful when you can’t remember anything. Karla asks him what he wants to know. He says he thinks about his family. But you told me yourself, says Karla, that your family died in an accident several years ago. Hugo is stunned.

In the dorm, Gloria is brushing Lina’s hair and they are cementing their reconciliation. Mili comes in wondering, hoping Hugo hasn’t killed himself. The girls say ooooh, he’s a missing person! But if something bad had happened, they reassure her, they’d have heard because bad news travels fast. Mili asks where Karla is and the girls tell her that she’s moved out, left the house and her mama and moved in with Andrea. Socorro comes in and tells Gloria that the grocery boy is waiting for her – and don’t stay out late. Gloria hugs her and thanks her and says if she had a mama, she would give advice like Socorro. She leaves. Socorro says she has a daughter who doesn’t care that she cares about her. Mili and Lina hug her and comfort her. It’s not going to work out, says Mili, she’ll be back. I don’t think so says Socorro. She hates me.

Hugo is holding his sore head. Karla says maybe I shouldn’t have told you about your family. No, I need to know, says Hugo, it helps me to organize my thoughts. What do I do for a living? You’re a painter, says Karla. A painter? Walls? Houses? No, says Karla, paintings! You’re an artist. Where is my art stuff? Karla says you had a disastrous exhibition and swore you would never paint again, but I want you to go back to it. I want to be your model. Wouldn’t you like that? Yes, says Hugo, confused. What if I can’t paint? Karla says you’ve lost your memory, not your talent. He moves his hand as if he were painting. Wouldn’t you like to paint me nude? Karla asks.

He is painting her nude. That is, she is nude and he is painting. He looks stunned. I don’t remember anything, he says, but it’s as if my hands have a memory of their own. You remember my body she says. But where are all my canvases? You destroyed them because you said they weren’t as beautiful as I am. Promise me I can keep this one. Yes, he says - everything I do now is for you. She smiles big and kisses his bruised lips. He doesn’t say ow.

Gloria and the grocery guy are on their date, eating fast food looks like. He tells a joke and she chokes on her food. She says she likes his jokes. He asks her to be his novia. She does the drink of water spray thing and then says yes. They are jubilant.

Alex takes the gun into Connie’s study and tells him he ought to keep it locked up as it almost cost him his life. It was locked up says Connie. And what’s up with you Connie asks. You say you’re leaving Mexico and now you’re here – is this how the leading light of business is supposed to act? I can’t talk to you about my problems, says Alex – you’ve never been interested. He takes off.

Mili is talking to Regina who is in bed. She is saying about how happy the time at the cabin was. Regina says she’s glad Mili didn’t marry Hugo because she didn’t love him, and now the way is open for her and Alex. No, says Mili, not if it costs the happiness of others. What if Hugo has killed himself? We would’ve heard, says Regina, if something dire had happened. We’ll hear from him soon. Mili is not convinced.

Breakfast for the servants. There is a little talk about Hugo, and Mili says please, I couldn’t sleep a wink last night. Me neither says Gloria – Chamuco asked me to be his novia! Bobby wishes he could be novios with Vale, and Horacio wishes he could be novios with Socorro, who is cranky and leaves the table. Horacio says he hates to see her so sad. Mili says she’s going to go over to Andrea’s and talk to Karla, who needs to leave that skunky Andrea and come back to her mama. She says she knows where the apartment is because she was there once.

Karla returns to the apartment but Hugo’s not there. He’s left a stickie note that he’s running an errand. Karla is annoyed. The doorbell rings. It’s Mili. ¿Que haces aqui?

Damien has called Bobby to his office. He says time for a raise and a promotion – he wants him for his personal assistant. Bobby is stoked.

Mili wants to talk to Karla, but Karla says you’ll have to talk to the walls, I’m busy. Mili notices some large drawings – Karla says that’s Andrea’s hobby. Mili, ignoring Karla’s wanting her to go, carries on, making an impassioned speech about how lucky Karla is to have a mother, a mother who cares for her, how Socorro is crying. Karla is fidgeting and looking at her watch. She tells Mili that Socorro likes to play the martyr and that Mili has no idea how glad she is to get out of that house. At least call or come by time to time says Mili. I will, I will, says Karla shoving her out the door. She closes the door behind Mili – whew, close call!

At the office, Luci is telling the decorators goodbye and thanking them. She fusses with an arrangement of roses. Connie comes in. ¿Que haces aqui? She raves about the office - doesn’t it look great? – and reminds him that it’s her territory now. He looks around, furious. There’s even a big couch with fancy pillows. He storms out and demands of Andrea to explain how that happened in his absence. She says I’ll get you a tea. Damien comes out with Bobby and explains how Bobby’s helping on the campaign now. Bobby starts to enthusiastically gush ideas, but Damien says talk to me first. Bobby subsides to the office and Damien says we can trust him not to sell secrets. That’s not the problem fumes Connie – we need money for the campaign and it’s up to you to get it.

Mili is calling Gloria on a pay phone across the street from Andrea’s about the art paper she saw at Karla’s – it looked like Hugo’s. Just then who should be wandering on the other side of the street but Hugo! Mili spots him, yells over to him, but a bunch of cars go by and she can’t cross the street.

Up in Andrea’s apartment, Hugo is asking Karla why she’s steamed at him for going out, he’s not a child. It’s because I was afraid you’d get lost, she says. It’s nice you worry about me, he says affectionately, but though I can’t remember things before the accident, I do remember where we live. They hug a little. The doorbell rings! Karla is nervous. It’s Mili, natch. I want to see him! Freeze frame.

Avances: At the office, Mili confronts Andrea about Hugo being at her place. Andrea feigns ignorance. Mili jumps on her and roughs her up, Connie comes out to see what’s happening. Andrea says get your daughter off me. Mili is impactada and Andrea looks like oops.

Labels: guapos

Ahoy all, as usual I encourage you to comment with corrections and assistance if you see I've not gotten it right. I definitely had a couple of Que the hell? moments with some of the phrases.

(Muchas Gracias to you commenters who helped with my vocab questions!! I've corrected/updated them in the recap and vocab list.)

From last night: Pastor warns Creamsicle (Heriberto) about that perverse demon Ivonne who collects men's...hearts. Ana asks Paula to have mercy on Nidia and Paula reveals that she had already decided not to press charges. Juan is late picking up Juanito from school and when he finally arrives Juanito is long gone. Meanwhile Juanito runs from the bullies and almost runs off a cliff. He teeters precariously...


...And finally manages to catch his balance. Juanito runs again and the chase continues as he hears the thuglets yelling in the background.

Pepita Pomposo (wouldn't that be the perfect name for a Chihuahua?) tells Lorenzo that she'll be lonely in the big bed without him. She didn't mean to insult him, she only wanted him to expand his horizons. He continues to pack his bag and they begin negotiations. She'll let him go play chess with his pals once a week if he agrees to remain. He counters with three times a week or he's leaving. She accuses him of emotional blackmail. No, he responds, just equal conditions.

Paula tells Ana that she wants the Cachon house, nothing more, nothing less. Ana makes the unhappy face.

Lorenzo tells Pepita that until she accepts his conditions he'll stay elsewhere. They need time to reflect. If she changes her mind she knows where to find him. He bids her a goodbye with all the sadness in his soul.

Nidia reports to Angarita that Ana is a saint to forgive her. She hopes Ana can convince Paula to do the same. She tells an unbelieving Anga that Alirio is being a real hero for taking the rap for their thievery.

Ana feels that Paula taking the Cachon house is too much. They aleady have a nice house. Paula feels that taking the house is the bare minimum. She announces she plans to resign from Angarita and work at Farell. Back to her greed, er I mean her inheritance, Paula insists it's not about the money, but rather about justice. Samuel wanted her to have the house and the thieves must pay.

Anga guffaws and tells Nidia that Alirio turning himself in is the very least he can do for putting Nidia into her current situation. (I do recall Nidia complying.) Nidia sticks up for Alirio which irritates Anga. Hooray for the hero, he says, let's order cake and a clown! He insists that this is just another of Alirio's traps, this time not for the money but for Nidia's bones, and she's falling right into it.

Cut to Alirio in his ridiculous disguise. He's at a counter either buying or pawning something. Anybody got any ideas?

Back to the lover's spat, Nidia vows that she intends to make things right with Las Davila. Anga is sceptical, how will she feel when she has to sell her clothes, her TV, and everything else that she bought with the money that isn't hers?! They glare at each other.

Juanito runs down an alley and backs into a cute little girl who has just walked out of a greenish blue door. The thuglets are hollering just out of sight. Juanito looks terrified.

Pepita hears a knock. Is it Lorenzo? No, it's Juan and he's looking for Juanito. Santo Niño de Atocha, where is he where is he where is he?

Pepita answers that Lorenzo left and Juanito was never with him. Did Juan check at school? Juan thought-bubbles that his head was full of bad thoughts, where was his son?

Back in the alley, the thuglets can't find Juanito. He must be somewhere! They look around and see someone peeking through a curtain next to the green door. They pound their fists into their hands in a threatening manner.

Juan calls the school and nobody has seen Juanito. Juan decides to call the police.

The cute girl has come out of the house and faces the thuglets. No, she insists, she hasn't seen anyone. "You haven't seen a guy around here with the face of an idiot?" the head bully asks. "Yes I have," she snaps, "right in front of me!" The other two bullies howl with laughter. Head bully says they'll search her house. She confidently tells them fine, if they can deal with Max...her dog. She calls Max and a loud snarling ensues. After the thuglets run away Juanito emerges and snarls a cute little "Thanks for saving me" to his adorable heroine.

Nidia has taken a different tack in her argument with Angarita. She felt the money was hers because Samuel put the horns on her all those years. Anga points out she no longer sounds repentant, but rather a bit confused. He says she'll never change, all her praise for Alirio sounds like pure tongue taco (all talk). Anga sounds jealous and scolds Nidia, does she think that Alirio is doing the right thing? She answers, yes partly. She adds that Alirio is scoring points with her, he's fighting for her without giving her lessons in morality. He's doing what would make Angarita quake like a chicken. He tells her to be very careful what she says. She mocks him some more and he tells her to beat it if she's going to insult him. "Hasta nunca, Mr. Pepper Counter" she snips. (Señor Don Cuenta Chiles) "Hasta Nunca Madam Trickster (Señora Trácala), I hope you're very happy with your caged coyote (coyote enjaulado)," he retorts. "And you as the lone dog!" she answers, puncuating her come-back with a chest hoist and a flip of her hair.

Juan decides to head back to the school while Pepita mans the phones in case the police call.

Juanito pushes his new friend on a swing and tells her his tale of woe. One on one he could easily take those bad boys, but when they gang up on him he doesn't have a chance. They introduce themselves. Her name is Floripines al Sagrado Corazon, Flor for short. She's impressed he can growl like a real dog. He says he learned it from the coyotes on his grandmother's land. She asks him to stay for tacos but Juanito says he'd better go back to school to look for his dad. He winks at her which makes her blush and giggle. Oh those Dominguez boys!

At the market, Kike gives a ton of work tasks to the note-taking Remolacho. They are interrupted by Yadira who coos to Nidia Michaela. The baby smiles and claps her hands at mommy.

Paula meets with her lawyer. She wants her divorce ASAP. The lawyer advises her that since CL left the country with no intent to return they can file a divorce for abandonment. After a certain time if CL doesn't show up she's a free woman. Paula looks relieved.

Julia tries to pump Marely for information on Yadi and Kike. Marely tells her to mind her own business. Julia sneers behind Marely's back.

Kike assures Yadira that the baby is fine. In fact Remolacho loves her so much he's practically her nanny. (I notice that Remolacho's hair no longer looks like a sea fan.) Yadi asks if the three of them can go have lunch...her, Kike and the baby (not her, Kike and Remolacho as Kike first thought).

Pastor sees Ivonne and Julia in the empty lobby and asks where is everyone? It's emptier than Cuautec on Mondays. (Couldn't find any info on Cuautec except that it's a neighborhood in the DF. Maybe it's super busy on Sundays and empty on Mondays because everybody goes to work?) He makes a note that Marely left after he specifically told her to stick around. He remembers when the offices were always full...those were the days.

Yadira's true intent is revealed, she wants Kike to talk to Juan about hiring her. Kike agrees and she blows him a kiss. He looks smitten.

Juan drives and worries that Juanito doesn't know his way around this maze of asphalt. Suddenly he sees his little son sitting on the curb. Juan looks truly stricken as he leaps out of the car, picks Juanito up and embraces and kisses him. (Note: Juan gives good hugs!)

Marely goes home to tell Nidia her news. "Good or bad?" asks Nidia apprehensively. Marely thinks it's good; she ate with Paula and...Nidia stops her and wants a shot of tequila first. Marely refuses and cuts to the news - Paula has decided not to press charges! Nidia squeals happily, that Pauli is a chip off the old block, a heart of gold, a saint like her mother. Marely reluctantly adds that in exchange Paula wants Nidia to hand over Casa Cachon. "Daughter of Marx!" hisses Nidia.

Nidia dramatically exclaims she'll be sleeping on a park bench! She asks Marely to try to convince Paula on her behalf. Nidia will give up anything, but please not her house. Where will they live, Nidia, Marely, Kike and the baby? (And aren't the Juans staying there too?)

Juan 'scolds' Juanito for running off and scaring dad so badly. This city isn't like Achichipico, the streets are dangerous! Can't Juanito see how much agony and desperation he put his papi through? Juanito explains that the bullies were after him again and were about to give him a good thrashing, but then Flor hid him. No, she's not from school, she lives nearby. Juanito babbles while Juan bubbles that of course in his son's adventure there has to be a woman in the story, eh? He's the son of a tiger all right. Juan smiles proudly as they head for Farell.

Paula is at the cemetery apologizing to her papa's grave. Good Lord, she kisses the slab and asks his forgiveness.

Yadira and Kike agree it was nice to talk for once without being at each other's throats. (Ha, probably because Yadira needs something.) Yadi agrees it's been good to catch a breath and see things from a distance without fighting all day. Kike doesn't like to think of her with that, that... She calms him down and says it's for the best. They can be friends, right? They hug goodbye, she'll see them tomorrow. Kike comments to Remolacho that she still loves him, and can Remolacho change the niña's diaper?

Paula gives Angarita her resignation, she's needed at Farell. Anga thanks her for her consideration of Nidia, for having listened, and for her heart. Paula actually smiles very sweetly at him.

Pastor convinces Heriberto that he has the same rights as Juan Dominguez. He leads Heriberto in a rousing cheer of "Yo si puede, Yes I can!" Pastor smacks his lips as Heriberto leaves the office. Mmmmmmm...creamsicle!

Heriberto strolls by Ivonne; Julia comments on this fine man, so dreamy! Ivonne says she needs her eyes examined.

Heriberto goes to Juan's office and waxes effusively on the grandeur, big chair, computer, a name plaque, everything! He eventually gets to the point - When will it be his turn to get on this horse???

Ivonne goes to Pastor's office as he's inspecting his girth. He asks her is his stomach fat? No no, of course not, you're very handsome she answers. Pastor admits to Ivonne that he completely dissed her to Heriberto. Ivonne is aghast, how could he impugne her reputation in front of just anyone? Pastor corrects her, not just anybody, the man of his life! Ivonne gets angry and tells Pastor it's not she he should worry about but Julia. And yes, he does have a fat stomach! Pastor buttons his jacket and sucks it in.

Heriberto blusters to Juan that he wants a piece of the action. Juan tries to ply him with big pink marshmallows but to no avail. Heriberto says they are partners, right? So this is what he wants, at the very least he should be made Vice President! Juan guffaws, caray caray caray caray, what? Heri seethes, either Juan makes him a VP or he will tell his Papa to demand back the money that Juan used to buy this little stand. Agreed?

Juan is Que the hell? impactado.

And Cesar Luis is either sharkbait or he has the worst pulled groin muscle in the world.

Mañana - Laura tries to get her clutches into Juan.


Puro taco de lengua = All talk (and no action)
Don Cuenta Chiles = Mr. Chile Counter
Ajedrez = Chess
Changarro = Little Stand
Hijo de tigre sale pintado = Like father like son (Lit. the son of the tiger turns out painted, i.e. similarly striped)
Laberinto de chapopote = Maze of asphalt
Niñera = Nanny
Terminar jalandonos las greñas = to end up at each other's throats (Lit. to end up pulling each other's tangled hair)

Labels: Juan