Caray, Caray!

Damian is telling Hugo that Luciana will be giving Hugo her shares of the company to run. Hugo questions why she is giving him control of 20% of the company instead of giving it to her son, Alejandro. Not to look a gift horse in the mouth, Hugo is pleased that he’ll be near Al. Damian is concerned that his son will be swayed by his nephew’s charms like he was when they were younger, but Hugo assures his father that he wants to be near Alejandro because he intends to destroy him.

Luci pumps Bobby for info on what’s going on with Al. Bobby says he’s not going to betray his friend. Luci begs, she knows something is wrong, but Al won’t talk to her about it. She’s never seen him suffer so much before. Bobby agrees, but is hesitant to talk about his best friend, so instead he tells Luci if she wants to worry, she should be looking at Valeria. Luci questions this and Bobby tells her that Val’s in looooove with the chauffer.

We switch to Rocky and Val out by the fountain. The declare that they are novios and Val gives Rocky a kiss and teases him that if he wants more he’s going to have to catch her. They playfully run around outside.

Luci tells Bobby that he’s nuts, there is no way her daughter would be messing around with the chauffer. Just then, Val and Rocky bring their game of chase into the house and Luci sees them together and proceeds to faint.

Mili is with Regina at the hospital. Regina wakes and tells Mili that she dreamed that Constancio was there and asking for forgiveness. Mili assures her it wasn’t a dream and Regina comments that it means a lot and she loves her son. Then she tells Mili that she doesn’t want her to cry, but she’s going. Mili asks her where and Regina says Heaven I hope. Mili doesn’t want to hear this, but Regina tells her she’s dying. She asks Mili to let her go, she is at peace. There is one thing, however, she wants Mili to do, to hold her hand and don’t leave her alone. Mili obliges and the tears start pouring (not only from Mili, but from me too). Regina confides in Mili that she is leaving this world with only one sadness, that she never found her grandchild, never had a chance to see Rosario’s child. Mili tells her that’s not true, that she is indeed Rosario’s daughter. She shows her the medallion and the photo that the mother superior gave her. This convinces Regina, who is happy and tells Mili that her heart didn’t deceive her, it always knew the truth. Regina proclaims the greatness of God in reuniting her with Mili. She begins to thank him for such happiness, and then she collapses back on the bed. Regina dies and Mili goes into hysterics. She begs her abuela not to go……..don’t leave. Mili says she doesn’t want to lose her too. The medical staff comes into the room and they proclaim the time of death as 10:30pm. (Ed. note--even though they've been leading up to this for weeks, I still was shocked they killed her off. I'm really going to miss Regina. She was a great lady---very elegant and distinguished.)

Braulio and Bobby help Luci wake up and get her back on her feet. Luci demands to see Rocky and Valeria in the study. She demands that Val tell her the truth---is she in love with the chauffer. Val acts aghast and both she and Rocky start to laugh. Val says mommy how can you think I’d be in love with this naco. Rocky calmly asks if he should go out to the garden before killing himself or would it be best to do it right there…..then he says that Luci probably doesn’t want him to dirty the carpet.

Mili questions God and why he would take Regina from her. She feels great resentment toward Connie and blames him for the suffering that Regina had to endure. He knew that Mili was her grandchild and he didn’t tell her. Mili swears that Connie will pay for this. The nurse finds Mili ranting and offers her some tranquilizers, but Mili refuses.

Val tells Luci that nothing’s going on with Rocky, he’s just teaching her a new dance, the puma. The two then impromptu perform "the dance" for Luci. Val assures her mother that it really is a great workout….like Zumba it burns a lot of calories. Luci falls for it and Val gets Rocky to leave the room, now that the situation seems diffused.

In his room, Al cries over Mili. He doesn’t understand what’s going on…she says she doesn’t love him but her eyes don’t lie….they say she loves him.

Lina, Gloria, and Karla are in the dorm and they rehash the recent goings-on. Karla finds out that Mili is to be adopted by Regina and that Mili’s being moved into the guest room. Al shows up, kicks Karla out and then breaks down in front of Gloria and Lina. The girls assure him that Regina will recover soon and then he and Mili can get married. Al asks the girls why Mili would say she doesn’t love him. They both seem shocked by this and tell him that Mili loves him more than anything.

Karla goes to Damian to confirm the news she heard about Mili. He says yep it’s true and Karla is upset that she’ll have to be taking orders from Mili. Damian tells her that she’s still a servant with privileges, and he makes a move on her. Karla isn’t in the mood and she goes stomping out.

Al tells the girls that Mili won’t talk to him and he needs to find out what’s happening. He lets them know that Mili’s rejected him. The girls can’t believe it and vow that they will talk to her and get to the bottom of it all. They both give Al a hug.

Braulio arranges Mili’s stuff in the guest room. He places photographs by the bed---one of Regina, one of Rosario, and one of himself. He mumbles about how Rosario’s daughter has finally been given her rightful place and how he still blames Connie for Rosario’s death.

Andrea consoles Connie while they are in bed. Connie seems distracted and he says he’s wondering about Mili’s attitude. He questions if it is possible that she’s found out the truth about him being her father. Connie decides to not return home and instead will spend the night with Andrea. She thought bubbles that she wonders if Luci would have told Mili the truth in order to stop the wedding.

Karla goes to the guest room and trashes it like she’s a rock star in a hotel room. She rants about how she hates Mili and how Mili doesn’t deserve this good fortune.

Mili calls Al and tells him about Regina.

Al, Hugo, Val, Luci, and Damian arrive at the hospital. Ruben (the doctor) is consoling Mili, but she runs to Hugo when he arrives. Damian asks what happened, it seemed like Regina was getting better. Ruben tells him that sometimes patients will appear to get better, and that they do rally some strength and they say their goodbyes and then they succumb to their infirmity. Val questions if Connie knows that his mother has passed away. Luci says she’ll go track him down. Hugo and Damian go to make arrangements for Regina. Val gets Ruben to take her to see Regina. Mili and Al are left alone.

Luci calls Andrea’s looking for Connie. Andrea pretends he’s not there and Luci tells her to cut the bull and put him on the phone. Connie is perturbed that Luci’s bothering him. She minces no words and bluntly tells him that Regina has died.

Al tells Mili he can’t believe she’s gone….Regina was his only refuge, the only one who understood him. Mili runs to him and they hug each other in their shared grief.

Val, in with Regina, tells her abuela that she’s never going to forget their last conversation. She promises that she’s going to change and fight for love so she can truly be happy. She swears she’ll make Regina proud of her.

Back at the mansion the staff is gathered. They are all crying over the loss of Regina. Rocky wishes he could be with Val and comfort her. Braulio tells the staff that they’ll need to be strong. He ends up breaking down as he says they’ll never forget her and Regina will always be in their hearts and their memories. Horacio laments over Mili, it is like she’s lost a mother all over again. Karla comes in and wants to know why they are acting like they’re at a funeral. She gets informed of Regina’s death and she seems happy. Socorrito questions her daughter’s attitude and Karla says she’s not happy that Regina’s passed away, but now Mili doesn’t have a protector and for sure Connie and Luci will be tossing her out on her ear tomorrow. Brau tells Karla that she’s mistaken if she thinks that Mili is alone.

Al thanks Mili for her support. Mili tells him that Regina was very proud of him and that she loved him immensely. Al says that she felt the same about Mili. He says that Regina always dreamed that the two of them would be married because she always wanted them together. Mili says that would be a big mistake. Al says it would never be a mistake and why are you talking this way when I need you the most. He says he loves her, knows that she loves him, and can’t understand why she’s denying it. He goes in for a kiss and Mili freaks. She demands that he never, never try to kiss her. Luci overhears this and interrupts and urges Mili to tell Al the truth. Al questions what’s going on.

Connie and Andrea are rushing to the hospital, with Connie driving (Andrea should have known better, but just because she’s devious doesn’t mean that she's got common sense). Connie feels terrible that he never let Regina know the truth about Mili being her granddaughter. He says he’s disgraceful and how can he ever live with knowing he denied his mother time with her grandchild.

Luci says go ahead and tell him Mili, what you told me about only being interested in his money. Al orders his mother to shut up. Luci, in full biz-nitch mode, tells him that now that Mili’s been adopted and has access to Regina’s money she no longer needs Al. He insists that Mili isn’t that kind of person. Mili says, oh I’m worse. "How could you ever think I was interested in you? It was your money that caught my eye. I never loved you….it was all a cruel joke." END OF EPISODE

Labels: guapos

We open the week with the ultimas semanas promises again. Do you suppose it's real? The scene at Lizards-R-Us, aka Farell Industrys, shows us that since Friday Paula is still hollering about the dreadful Laura being hired against her demands in one office while Juan is defending this hiring to Sandro by insisting that Laura is smart, well prepared, and Sandro adds, well connected to the President of the company, right? RIGHT. Right, and Sandro conveys to Laura that she has all Juan's support. Paula watches with dagger eyes as Laura presses Juan with grateful caresses and kisses.

Alirio comes up to an information desk in the bank with baby and baby carriage and assures the clerk behind it that surely he will help him, he wants to open a new account. The clerk looks less certain but wants to ask Alirio some important questions. What is this program we have here?

Kike is hitting the wall and lamenting the disappearance and late reappearance of Yadira, demanding to Remolacho that he should be recognized as the husband with his proper rights and respect. Remolacho is less sanguine about being able to control what Angarita wants to do, like take Yadira out to eat, besides he is more interested in tacos for lunch. Laura is using her current sway with Juan to tell him where she most wants to be in the company. She would like to develop new business. She regrets that the only negative is the sour Paula who still harbors so much rancor over something so small that happened so long ago. Juan tries to be politic that some people don't get over what harm was done to them. It doesn't augur well that Laura and Juan are hugging and rubbing noses as Paula barges in without knocking or being announced by Ivonne Bonbon. Paula and Laura easily sling insults about hypocritic courtesy. Paula one more futile time announces she won't tolerate this woman in the company.

Yadira giggles while Angarita tells her how much she seems like her mother. She wants to know if Anga still loves her Mom. He prefers to talk about something else, but Yadira completely ignores his pleas and continues to ask about how romantic was it between Nidia and Anga when they were young. He tries to ask which University she wants to attend. She enthuses that there are so many. He wants her to pick her favorite without regard to how much it will cost.

Paula continues to point out the inept inexperienced Laura is a hypocrite (her favorite word these days is hipócrita) and further she is unpleasant (antipática), yadayada. Juan throws back that he was a good partner when she insisted on hiring Sandro which makes Paula yell with even louder shrillness as she points out that Juan made Sandro stay with such a ridiculously low salary. When he tries to quiet her she insists she isn't getting louder and wonders why he is challenging her (estar desfiando). Juan shows his desk sign as president and his expensive boots to emphasize his right to make these decisions and Paula continues to ignore that Laura is off settling in her new office saying Laura is not going to work in the company and Juan says, like it or not she is, and Paula goes to over my dead body and Juan gives kisses....

Marely startles an angry Sandro/CL who wants to be left alone and is so nasty she leaves telling him sometimes he is worse than his brother.
Pastor tells Ivonne that Heriberto has eyes only for her. She advises him to think of things he and Heriberto have in common, sports, the cinema, can't think what. Back to Marely buzzing the cranky guy that Paula wants to see him in her office. Paula wants to convince him that Laura Berrocal can't work in the company and even the disguised CL tells her he can't countermand a decision by the rightful President Juan. A grinning CL peers out of the eyeglasses of Sandro at this frustration he has fomented. Break.

Nidia and Alirio fight over where he has been and how worried and scared (susto) he has made her. As they parry over who has the bigger need to do things, she still demands to know where he went with her precious granddaughter....

Paula now rants at Sandro who feels he is between a rock and a wall, about why he isn't using his administrative powers to argue with Juan. Kike tries to act busy while a very jolly Anga and giggling Yadira enter late from their happy meal. He wants to go off to see HIS DAUGHTER but his high toned words are lost on both. He wonders if Yadira won't come with him but she giggles that she needs to settle something with the patron, but she will come along later. Nidia and Alirio seem to bore each other into an uneasy truce of who will tell where they go, have gone, will go and who has the right to drag it out of the other.

Sandro is now trying to talk with Juan about Laura and the pressure Paula is putting on him to convince Juan not to employ Laura. He ironically seems to enjoy, in fact almost help, Juan keep to his decision which is so irritating Paula. He calls the game in play a power struggle, (duh). Then the unbelievable advice asking Sandro wants to know what Juan would do in his place. If Paula has urged him not to accept Laura's contract and he does how will she take his shameless act (raspado). Juan advises him to tell Paula that he did what he could to convince Juan but it didn't work... we switch to seeing Sandro/CL tell Paula just these words. He is at a loss of how she can insist that he do something that Juan refuses to give into. Paula asks if she should just directly insist with Juan and Sandro/CL smiles as he says he personally thinks there are things to read between the lines here. And he says there are other ways to achieve what she wants. The cat that ate the canary grin takes us to another break.

Yadira coos over baby Nidia Michaela while Kike looks like a canary about to be swallowed. He wants to know what it is that Yadira wants to do.... Over at Pastor's office Paula tries another tack with him but he calmly says he is waiting for Laura to sign her contract.... Kike finishes his sentence, he thinks something strange is going on between Angarita and Yadira. He piles on the dichos, all our old favorites: Anga is trying to mate or get too close to Yadira (echando los perros), there is something fishy (gato encerrado) and even a suspicious or hidden dog fight (pelear de perros). She says he is the only thing that is insulting but he holds with as the father of their daughter he has every right to advise her that she looks like she is making some bad steps, or heading toward trouble when his daughter's welfare is concerned. In short, Kike is back to being the insecure, jealous pile of anxieties in the face of this self-centered woman who has a Paula-esque shrillness about her that saves our ears only because her voice is lower. So what confusing mess (jaleo) is she trying to make with Anga. She defends his help, respect and especially that he is paying attention to her in a way that she craves. He can't believe she can carry on like this while they live under the same roof (techo) but she counters that this will end very soon. He assumes she will move back to Topete's but she says no she is moving into her own apartment.

At dinner with Anga, Pastor sneers that now that Anga has bought Yadira an apartment and will pay for university what is his next act to buy the baby her own car? Anga tells him to go on joking but he is sure that Yadira is his daughter and one day all will come out. Does NIdia agree, Pastor's pokes with more questions. Back at Casa Cachon Kike is telling Yadira she can't leave all this but Yadira says here everything they have is either borrowed (prestado) or given (regalado). But the most important things to Yadira is liberty and freedom that she has nothing of here. She insists that this is all her business. When Kike says but what about the baby. Yadira snaps that she will take her with her. While they struggle with that issue, Yadira tells him to quit insinuating stupidities (like her having a lover or what, I would presume). Finally she ends by telling him that she is going with Angarita's offer of an apartment and paid university, nahnahnah....

Sandro and Cesar Luis finally catch up at the dinner table but it doesn't look like a nurturing or nutritious family dinner. Little by little CL intimidates Sandro about the attention he is paying to Marely who is worthless and boring (sangrona) with her university research and all but he guesses that after today Marely won't be coming to him for help. Sandro pales and says what did you do to her?

Pastor calls Heriberto who is watching something fetching on TV and eating something high calorie on the bed with a beer in one hand. Pastor lets him know that he can counsel him about how to charm Ivonne. BUT, he can't do it on the phone.

Juan and Juanito also at a table in a cafe, discuss Juan's various and plentiful bevy of beauties. Juanito only has sympathy for the charms of Marely but Papa goes on to show him his own inclination to prefer pretty women, Juanito has a preference for Flor doesn't he, well yeah but...

Dinner at Ana's table has Paula talking about Laura again and HIllary and complaining but the ever wise Ana calls it jealousy . Ivonne tries to be conciliatory but Ana pushes the point that Paula is dying of her jealousy and she better get it together to declare her real love for Juan before it's too late.

Nidia and Yadira talk about Yadira's plans to leave and take the baby. What if she is sick in the night and Yadira has to study. Yadira sounds quite sincere in waxing poetic on how she isn't throwing a tantrum (berrinche), she is grateful to her mother but wants her freedom and needs to make her own way in her life and the world, one tends to forget that she won't be paying for one peso of it herself.

Juan and Juanito return to the house to find Kike lining up about six stiff tequila drinks. Kike cries and reveals that Angarita has offered to pay for Yadira to have an apartment and to attend university. And saddest of all she will take his daughter with her.

Sandro calls Marely who gives him the cold shoulder until her gets out of her that she was insulted by his treatment. He blames his tension because of the struggle between Paula and Juan and he lost control. She says over Laura? Yes, he probes not knowing how insulting CL must have been but tells her he is really interested in her university studies and yes he cares a radish (rabano) but he needs to see her in a restaurant not talk on the phone so they can sort this out. Marely is too willing to change her hurt insulted feelings when Sandro begs to make her see that he was not responsible for his outrage today.

The great advisory dinner meeting takes place between a conciliatory Pastor and a flattering Heriberto. Heri is sure Pastor knows all about the ways of a gallant urbane man of the world. Pastor continues to peddle his wares with feigned sincerity. How to woo an hottie like Ivonne. First he has to change his LOOK (look). Wow are we going to see a change in Heri who seems to imitate Juan but with even brighter suits.

Juan makes his excuses to get out of the house while he tucks Juanito in. He has meetings to attend. Juanito tells him he is staying out too late and he better get home to bed. Juanito knows that Papa is avoiding the real truth about who he is seeing and why.

Alirio is having a secret conversation on the phone with a disheveled Gutierez who seems to be living in a garage. He has to keep his voice low or NIdia will find him talking and kick him out of their bed again. He assures him that tomorrow he will go to other banks and open other accounts. Oh my what a business man with a new plan. (Sorry I missed Friday, perhaps this was explained but it seems like today's hot new idea.) Kike interrupts with the desperation of a man who turns to someone like Alirio. He needs to have a lawyer on his side to keep Yadira from taking his daughter form him. Fin.

Next: Nidia answers Paula's call and tells her he has gone out with another woman. Paula doesn't look pleased once again.

Labels: Juan

On the other side of the lawn, Juan mixes it up a bit with Franco over the problem trophy. Juan says he doesn’t give a darn about it, but Franco thinks it is special and says he’ll hang onto it anyway. Oscar comes over and tells Juan to take an attitude check. He asks how he intends to win over Sofia by constantly insulting and arguing with her. Oscar reminds him that he cannot win her over by being rude and offensive and asks him to remember he was the first to insist on fulfilling the promise they all made to Libia. He adds that if he and Franco are doing their part then Juan could try to make an effort also. “What will you do? Or, I should say, what are you doing?” Juan thinks morosely to himself that loving her desperately, painfully, without the slightest hope, with all his soul and all of his being is what he has done.

Upstairs Augie gives Gabi what for over the kiddie party she threw for her daughters the day before. He complains to her that the only thing she managed to do was to make it evident that it was her darkest desire that her daughters should be as miserable as she. He wants her to realize that Sarita and Jimena are now a couple of grown women. Crabby Gabi, though, doesn’t want any opinions from Papa’s peanut gallery. She asks him what the big rush is to marry them off anyway if they’re only going to be as unhappy as Sofia, or as she was during her marriage.

Augie tells Gabi not to confuse the issue and definitely not to compare herself with Sofia. “You forced Sofia into marrying when the poor thing was too torn up and emotionally beside herself to even oppose you. As for your marriage, you were the one all hot to marry Bernardo despite his not loving you!” “—You’re lying!” “—No, it’s the painful truth. He didn’t love you. He never loved you!” (Ok. So how DID she get him to marry her, then, Gramps? This inquiring mind wants to know.) “The only reason he stayed was for the kids, not because of you. So don’t you take your bitterness out on them. They’re not to blame.”

Augie’s on a righteous roll now and doesn’t stop there. He tells her that she was cold as an ice floe (just go with me here, folks) rejected affection and kept her frigidity hidden for appearances’ sake. Gabi tells him to stop in the name of her mother and show some respect. He tells her not to mention her mother. “Your mother was marvelous. She was a woman who gave herself over in body and soul, who enjoyed being a wife and mother and who knew how to be a woman!” He rolls out of the room in a huff.

Gabi is seething now and glances over at a family photograph of her bad boy, Bernie smiling with his daughters. “It’s true, Bernardo. You never loved me. God was just, Bernardo! You set your sights on another woman. He punished you with death and your punishment was to never enjoy the love you so yearned for and that you denied to me. “ She throws the picture face down onto the desk.

Out in the back lawn, Sarita comes sauntering over to flirt with Franco. He sees her walking over and begins to make a big show about a large ache in his chest. Sarita bats her eyelashes at him and well, it’s not the contacts. She asks what’s wrong. He confesses that as soon as he sees her the pain in his chest disappears. He looks her over. “Well, what did you do to yourself, Sarita? You’re looking so fine!” She bats those lashes again at him. “I didn’t think you noticed.” “—Lord, Sarita! It’s like not knowing what color the sky is.” “No one has ever spoken like that to me; I don’t think anybody’s ever paid attention to me before.” He plays along-or rather, plays her along. “You’ve been surrounded by blind men and fools.”

Franco works his charms on her, telling her how beautiful she is, not only on the outside but on the inside as well. Sarita melts like butter 'n chocolate in one of Juan’s double boilers. He fawns that she’s a sweet romantic. (Ok. Some may like the hot and sweaty, stubble-faced, doo-ragged doofus types, but not me. The girl has definitely been blinded by her hormone overload.) She flirts back, “Remember. We are twin souls.” Bat, bat.

Mercifully, before we all OD on sugar, Sarita changes the subject. She asks Franco what he does once he’s done working there. He tells her about the bakery that he and his brothers own. She mentions they might deliver their bread there to the hacienda and then says she’s got to git before Momma takes notice. Before she goes he thanks her for coming and then kisses her hands. She races off and he smiles at himself, quite satisfied with his performance.

We beam over to the Bad Love Bar. Rosario’s in her dressing room daydreaming in front of her mirror about Franco. They are –what else-- singing a duet about sharing hot burning love ‘n kisses.

We are then shunted back to the kitchen at Hacienda Heights where Eva is also daydreaming. Jimena finds Eva in the kitchen and wonders why Eva seems so preoccupied. Eva answers that she is just a bit worried about Sofia. Just then Sarita walks into the kitchen with a dreamy smile on her face and they ask her the reason. She tells them that she’s in love and the object of her affections feels likewise. Both of the women fawn over Sarita and her “news” while I worry about becoming diabetic before the episodio ends.

Outside Oscar and Franco chat about how they are both doing in their attempts to capture the hearts of the two Elizondo sisters. Franco says he’s doing pretty well, but that he feels that Sarita doesn’t deserve to be deceived like this. Oscar says he thought Franco was supposed to be in love with Rosario. Oscar wants to know if Franco is daring to go double his fun with both ladies. Franco says a guy can do whatever he wants. Oscar says sure, go after three, or even four at a time. “Why not? --What do you think, Juan? Why limit yourself?” Juan answers that he’s a one-woman man and then says to himself, glancing over at Sofia’s balcony, “about that woman!”

A bit later Sarita and Jimena sneak a ride to town in the back of the truck when Eva gets a lift into town. Sarita is apparently going to pop in at the bakery to see what makes Franco’s yeast rise.

Meanwhile Franco, now decked out in his best town duds --owing apparently to Quintina’s motherly attentions-- is inside checking on the cash receipts when Rosario walks in. After an excruciatingly long gaze into each other’s eyes and a heavy heave of his chest, he asks what she’s doing there. (Let us guess.) Rosario tells him she simply cannot stop herself from seeing him; that her love is stronger than her fear. She grabs his face in her hands with her 3 inch black-ruby hooker nails running through his hair. (Qué distracting!) She looks into his eyes and lays a long, luscious lip-lock on her Franco lollipop JUST as Sarita comes through the bakery’s doorway. (uh-oh. There goes the new bread contract.) Sarita, tearfully impactada, leaves without being seen by the otherwise occupied objects of said ogle fest.

Back once again at Hacienda Heights, Armando has entered the foyer and Gabi asks why he’s there. Feo Nando arrives in the nick of time as outdated Mannix-style action music plays irritatingly in the back ground. Quickly he explains that Armando is a long time bidnez associate and that he came to discuss investing in some of the hacienda’s business dealings. Armando lays the compliments on Gabi just as thickly as Feo ever did. In fact he is quite the charmer. She gives them leave to go into her office to use it as their own and gushes again about her full trust in Feo. They leave and Crabiela makes for her mirror-mirror on the wall. (Could it be that Armando has lit a fire under the b!tchy old broad’s bed stand?)

In the office Feo Nando warns Armando that under no circumstance is Gabriela to know that Armando is the owner of the Bad Love Bar or what their real business connection is, or their relationship will be caput. Armando promises to be discreet. Feo wants news about Rosario. Armando snickers about the heartbreaking scene between Rosario and her little boy. He says she knows now that Fernando is a man who keeps his word and after what she told Franco he won’t be coming back.

In between passionate tongue probes in the bakery Rosario asks Franco to forgive her for denying that she loves him and for telling him all that foolish stuff about only being interested in a man’s wallet. He tries to get her to tell him who’s behind all of this, but she says it’s too risky for him to know. It’s like quick sand and he’ll sink for sure. He wants to help her through her problem but she refuses. She kisses him good-bye and walks out the door. (Note: If that leopard print tank she’s poured into were any skimpier her wardrobe would be malfunctioning.)

Sarita finds Jimena waiting for her outside and tells her sister that Franco is nothing but a lowlife bricklayer and baker, that Momma was right that they’re better off looking for someone else from the same background as theirs. He’s not worth paying attention to. Jimena can't understand what’s caused this sudden change in Sarita’s attitude.

Across town Eva and Sofia are walking along together when they run into Rosario. Sofia and Rosario exchange niceties about her great singing. Rosario tells Sofia that she knows she is a good and kind person and she doesn’t deserve her luck. She sincerely hopes that Sofia finds happiness soon. As Rosario rushes off Sofia wonders aloud how the woman seems to know so much about her personal life.

Back in Gabi’s office, Fernando hunkers down with Armando and says he’ll be taking Gabi’s money little by little without her knowing it and then depositing it into secret bank accounts. He will need to leave Mexico to make these deposits and he plans to go the next day. Armando warns him about getting too close to his mother-in-law because she could get the wrong idea about him. She’s still an attractive lady (literally, "well-preserved") and you are going to see a suitor turn up for her.

At the parish office Tadeo and Sofia chat about how she and Nonefer Nando are managing together. She tells him she’s sleeping in the guest room although he has become very gentlemanly and has even offered to give her all the time she needs to think through things. She, though, plans to fight for her freedom from him despite her mother’s objections and the padre’s possible disapproval. Tadeo hints he has something doing with his superiors and when he’s heard back from them the two of them will talk again. She doesn’t understand and he asks her to trust in him.

That night at the hacienda Sarita has reverted to prude-in-training. Jimena asks her what could have happened in the bakery to cause her to be so upset. Sarita says she was dazzled by Franco but now has been rudely awakened and so he means absolutely nothing to her. Jimena is bewildered and shakes her head.

In the Reyes’ kitchen Quintana wonders why it’s like a wake in there. Handsome hunks like them she says should be all smiles cavorting around with young beauties and falling in love. She pulls out a photo she found of Libia and they explain that the girl in the photo is their dead sister. “Blessed God, why did she die so young? What did she die from?” “—From love. She died from love,” says Juan. He grabs the photo and runs out growling a warning to the others that because of that none of them is supposed to ever fall in love. Oscar and Franco share a concerned look.

Suppertime at the Elizondo’s. Sofia turns down Nonefer Nando’s offer to join him on his bidnez trip. He says fine; he’s not going to force her. He makes a remark to Sarita’s about how she had changed her appearance for a bit and had fixed herself up so nicely with make-up and different clothes. She says she’s decided that getting dressed up is frivolous. Momma smiles to hear it. Jimena whines that she likes dressing up and she’s not at all frivolous. Sarita says she’s not interested in looking pretty. She is who she is and has no intention of being persuaded otherwise. Sofia says she respects her decision.

Meantime, we catch up with Juan who’s ridden off into the countryside complaining that he may not be able to fulfill his oath after all. He screams to the heavens, “What do we do, Libia?” The sky responds with a lightning bolt and it begins to rain. At the same time Sofia starts pacing around in her bedroom going stir crazy. She decides to take a night ride on Mr. Ed and stops at her favorite spot near the tree. She gets down off her horse and then smiles. She says that now she knows she won’t be able to continue hiding the love she feels for Juan. Just then the weather breaks there too and it starts to rain. The two lonesome lovers start looking around a bit troubled and uncertain. --Ho boy. The (much overdone) double screen shot is back with both of the would-be lovers supposedly looking towards and thinking of the other.

Back at the hacienda, Sarita cries alone in her room, clutching the dried rose Franco gave her that day in the garden when she thought she was his impossible love. She remembers seeing Franco kissing another woman. “Why, Franco?” she weeps.

Franco is alone in his room also thinking back to his kissing Rosario. “She loves me. Rosario loves me!” he says to himself as we see Rosario in hot pants belting it out in the bar.

The storm gets worse. Sofia and Juan get back on their horses looking to get out of the rain. At the hacienda Sarita starts looking for Sofia. Jimena hasn’t seen her and takes the opportunity to ask her sister again about Franco and why she’s changed and so down. Sarita tells her that people can make mistakes and cries. Eva comes in asking for Sofia. They all wonder if she might have decided to go outside somewhere since her windows were left open and her room was empty.

Downstairs Fernando is in the study whining to Gabi that he’d hoped to take Sofia with him to make a fresh start with her. Gabi says she’s going up to talk to Sofia about it. He says no, he doesn’t want to continue causing problems between the two of them. He only is confiding in her because he has nobody else to open up with over his “pain” at being continually despised by his very own wife. (All that’s missing here are the violins.) “Let me see about it,“Gabi tells him. She leaves to find Sofia and Feo Nando smiles smugly to himself.

Sofia has entered the cave where Libia is buried. She asks forgiveness for disturbing this dead person’s peace, though she isn’t sure who is buried there. She tells the dead soul she’ll leave once the rain stops. Just then Juan yells at her, “What are YOU doing here!” She looks up muy impactada to see him there. He growls at her again for an answer. Sofia tells him she’s there for the same reason as he, getting out of the rain. He asks how dare she come to this hallowed spot. She asks why he is so upset since he’s in there too. Anyway, she explains, she only found it a few days ago by accident and realized it was somebody’s grave. She found that she felt at peace there, like it was a sanctuary of some sort. So he asks what’s she doing out and about alone like this. She tells him she was restless and decided to go for a ride.

Juan turns abruptly to walk out and Sofia calls him back. All of a sudden she grabs him and begins to hug him. (Damn! How do those guys keep that strap thing under their lip like that?) He hugs back. (Unfortunately, the darned sombrero covers Eduardo’s eyebrows and half his face. Aye, Carumba! I’m sure somebody's nerdy nepotistic nephew was the one directing right then.) Suddenly Juan shoves her away. In a fit of anger he tells her to let go of him. (This is a first! A guy telling a girl to let HIM go?) “Don’t touch me! You’re never to touch me again here!” Totally disgusted, Sofia pushes him aside and walks out. He calls after her, “Sofiaaaa!!” Then he takes off his sombrero, rushes over to Libia’s graveside to apologize, and begins saying The Lord’s Prayer.

Back at the hacienda, Gabi goes back in to Fernando and says nobody’s seen Sofia. Sofia’s balcony was open she says and it seems strange Sofia would go off by herself at night because she hasn’t done that since the night she was “disgraced.” Fernando offers to put a search party together. He feigns concern for Gabi being left alone then takes off with the workers to go looking for Sofia.

Meanwhile Juan races around on horseback in the rain yelling for Sofia. She’s somewhere on Mr. Ed, weeping and asking herself why Juan spoke to her like that. Eva prays in the little chapel that Sofia is found safe and sound. The ranch hands note in the stable that Bernardo’s horse is gone along with Sra. Sofia. The thunder and lightning continue menacingly. Juan catches up to Sofia and begs her to listen to him but she refuses and rides off into the storm. Feo and the ranch hands start roaming the nearby woods and pastures looking for her.

Eva eventually sees Sofia riding in towards the stables and goes out to check on her. Sofia is putting up her saddle and blanket when Juan comes into the stable and calls out to her. He stops her and asks for her to forgive him. She hesitates and he grabs her and pulls her to him. They kiss, but only for a stolen moment before Eva walks in on them. They look at her, ashamed at having been caught in the act. They hear Feo yelling outside at the men. Eva goes out to speak with Fernando and tells him that she was only there to assure herself that Sofia hadn’t arrived back on one of the horses. Feo doesn’t look all that convinced.

Inside the stables Sofia tells Juan that for the love of God he should leave, but Juan says they need to talk about things. (Not NOW you doofus! Her jealous husband is about to walk in on the two of you, duh!) She tells him no, they’ll talk later, after.

Outside Feo hears a horse whinney. He goes inside the stable to check it out. Eva holds her breath in anticipation of the worst. Feo Nando finds Sofia alone. He says he’d been worried and could only think of her and that fated night back when….. He caresses her hair. Sofia shrinks from his touch. (Yeah, Feo makes all of us cringe.) He talks about how she was so frightened and in such pain back then, so timid. She brought out the tenderness in him. He thought she was afraid of going out alone at night. She answers that she’s been learning to control her fears since then and tonight she was feeling shut in, jailed like, so she simply had to get out so she could breathe again.

Eva comes in. Fernando looks over at Eva and tells her to tell the family that Sofia is fine. Eva leaves, but she’s obviously worried for Sofia. Feo tells Sofia that he was afraid he’d lose her and reminds her that without her his life has no meaning. Sofia begs him for her freedom again. He just stares at her with a slight look of amusement, sort of like a cat toying with its mouse.

Upstairs Augie and Jimena gossip about the fact that Sarita must have seen Franco doing something pretty disagreeable to have come back in such a snit. He makes a little off color remark about Sarita needing a little chocolate with her bread but Jimena tries to play dumb. Sarita is in her room, weeping again over her lost opportunity with Franco. (Darn it all, Sar. It’s really too bad that this minnow is the only freakin’ fish in your funky pond. Sheesh!) Unfortunately for Sarita, Franco is still thinking about Rosario and the secret that has her tied to Armando.

Oscar walks in on Franco and brings him out of his daydreams. He is worried about Juan possibly out riding in this torrent. He’s upset with Juan and his strange behavior and thinks he’s keeping secrets all of a sudden from them. Juan arrives back home and Oscar tries to ask where he’s been but gets nowhere. Oscar gripes to Franco and wonders if Juan’s change has something to do with this Sofia. Ever since he met her he’s been a different person. They track him down in the shower and Oscar tells Juan they have to talk.

Sofia and Fernando enter the foyer and Crabiela is there to screetch at her about being selfish and having everyone dying from worry over her. Sofia apologizes and says it won’t happen again, then starts up the stairs to change. Crabiela stops her short and says their conversation isn’t over yet. Sofia comes back down the stairs and in front of Fernando Gabi starts in on why she has refused to travel with her husband for his business trip. Sofia says she simply doesn’t want to and wonders why that isn’t enough of a reason. Crabi Gabi says a wife is obligated to go with her husband.

Finally Sofia loses all patience with her mother and tells her not to start spouting off about wifely obligations because she doesn’t want any! She tells Gabi that she’s just finished asking Fernando again for her freedom but he insists they stay together. She says that if she can’t be free, then she at least wants to take control of her own life. If Fernando want’s to go on a trip fine but she will not go with him. She heads up the stairs. Gabi looks pained at Feo who “begs” her not to be harsh with Sofia. She tells him she cannot promise anything and goes back upstairs too. Fernando thinks to himself, “Sofia you will never be free of me. Never!”

Back in the Reyes’ tiny bathroom, Juan emerges in his towel and frowns at his brothers. “Alright then, we’ll talk,” he tells them, “I am in love with Sofia.”

Labels: Fuego

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 12:39 AM 39 comments

In court, Marina testifies that Boris has fled because he is afraid of Hugo; because he knows that Hugo is a murderer. Sensation in the court. The Judge says the police will find Boris and he will have to answer to a charge of complicity with Hugo. Marina testifies that not only did Hugo kill her child, she destroyed her marriage (is this a crime in San Marino?) because now her husband will have to spend the rest of his life in jail. The Judge asks Hugo if he wants to speak. Hugo says that what Marina says is a lie. Her fall was an accident, a terrible accident. “Liar!” screams Marina, “Don’t believe him. Hugo de Medina killed my baby. He’s a murderer.” Hugo says that isn’t true and she knows it. Arturo speaks up and says, “Why should we believe him? He’s a swindler. Why shouldn’t we believe that he tried to kill this woman?” Then Gladis pipes up and says that, “It is true. They were all witnesses to what Lucas said about this man.” Michelle says to herself that she would do anything to help Hugo but she is afraid this will end very badly.

Soledad asks her mother what Lucas wanted her to tell him. Ester says that Lucas was drunk and she shouldn’t believe all that he said. Soledad replies that yes, he was drunk but he was making sense. She says that his suffering for what Hugo did to her was bad enough and now this. Ester asks if Soledad is going to continue to protect Hugo. Soledad says that if her father dies, she will never forgive Hugo. Ester approves.

Time for afternoon pond sex! Margot can’t wait to find out what Hercu-less’ surprise is. She has a surprise for him too and starts to strip (that’s not too surprising).

Hercu-less has a gun and is approaching someone tied up in a cart. He says that he should finish his job for Alcides so he can go have pond sex with Margot. It’s Boris in the cart. (It was Alcides who kidnapped Boris!) Boris calls for help.

There’s chaos in the courtroom. The rabble is yelling, “Guilty!” Ursula goes to Michelle and asks her to help Hugo. She says that if Hugo is executed, Soledad will die. Michelle says that she wishes she could do something but there’s no way.

Paquito shows up at the trial in time to see the judge find Hugo guilty and sentence him to be hung. Hugo looks like he just can’t believe that this has happened. Michelle cries silently while the rabble hoot and holler.

Soledad asks Dr. Dan how her father is. Has he woken up? Dr. Dan says yes but he is very weak. Lucas wants to speak to Soledad alone. She goes to his bedside. Lucas says that he is dying. Soledad won’t accept that. Lucas repeats that he is dying but before he dies, he has something very important to tell her. He says that what he did at the trial was horrible. He did it because of the love he has for her. She will always be his little girl. Soledad says of course she is his daughter and he is the best father in he world. “No, says Lucas, “I am not your father. Your real father was man who was my best friend – Jeremias Montenegro.” Soledad is impactada. (If he really loved Soledad, why on earth would he tell her that?)

The judge says that the sentence will be carried out on the following Sunday in a public execution in the town square. Alcides stands up and tells that judge that as a lawyer and with all due respect to the court, he does not agree with the sentence. Eloisa says to Paquito that she doesn’t understand why Alcides is objecting to the sentence. Paquito says that Alcides is a brute. He probably wants Hugo burned at the stake. Arturo stands and tells Alcides that the sentence has already been handed down. It’s too late. The judge asks why Alcides objects to the sentence. Alcides says that a death sentence isn’t warranted by the evidence. It’s Marina’s word against Hugo’s. There are no witnesses. Arturo objects. Alcides says, “Am I or am I not right, Your Honor?”

Soledad asks what her father is talking about. Of course he is her father. Lucas says that she will always be his daughter. Wherever he goes when he dies, he will always be looking out for her. Soledad asks what Jeremias Montenegro has to do with this. He has always been her father. He is weak and this idea just popped into his head. Lucas says no, her mother knows the truth. Even if he didn’t give her life, he loves her.

Ester wants to go into the room with Soledad and Lucas. Dr. Dan says no. Lucas is about to die. This may be the only chance he has to speak to his daughter.

Alcides says to the judge, “You can’t condemn anyone to death, the maximum penalty, without sufficient evidence.” Arturo stands up and says that if Alcides wants more evidence it is in the flight of Hugo’s servant Boris. Manrique adds that they all heard what Lucas said, this man is a criminal! Michelle stands up and says that she agrees with Alcides. No one knows why Boris isn’t here but she is sure that if he were present, he would testify against his wife. The judge says that it is clear that the defendant lied to various people about a mine that didn’t have any gold. His long-time servant made very clear charges about the loss of her unborn child. The only witness fled to avoid justice. Then the judge says that there is other evidence. Hugo, knowing he was guilty, escaped from prison yesterday with the aid of three masked individuals and was missing because someone offered him refuge and protection. The judge asks Hugo who helped him escape from prison? Who hid him from justice?

Hercu-less drags a bound and hooded Boris into the woods.

Soledad says that Lucas must be delirious. He says that he just wanted to her know the truth but she will always be his daughter. He asks her to forgive him for what he did at the trial but Hugo doesn’t deserve her. He asks her to promise to take him out of her life. She says that he will recover. He asks her again to promise to separate her life forever from Hugo de Medina. She says, “Papa, Yo por ti..” – “I for you…” (that's not a promise, right?) and then thankfully Lucas appears to die.

The judge asks Hugo again who helped him escape from prison. Michelle flashes back to the escape. Hugo says that when the escape took place, he was having a severe attack of catalepsy. He was unconscious and didn’t know what was happening around him. He woke up in his own house where the judge arrested him. Arturo addresses the judge and says that Medina brothers are working together to make a joke of the law. He asks the judge, not only to ratify the sentence but have it carried out as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of another escape. He says that the judge holds the dignity of San Marino in his hands and that Hugo should be executed today.

Soledad tries to get Lucas to react. She calls Dr. Dan. Dr. Dan tries pounding on Lucas’ chest. Let’s hope that doesn’t work.

Margot has set up a sex picnic and she flashes back to pond sex with Herc. She likes the sound of his name. Will he take her away from her sordid tavern life?

Hercu-less is not a happy killer. He flashes back to Margot saying that she liked him because he didn’t have blood on his hands. Boris tries to figure out what is going on. “Just kill me,” he says.

Soledad and Ester wait outside for Dr. Dan to finish crushing Lucas’ chest cavity. Soledad asks her mother what she did. Her father told her that he isn’t her father. That she is the daughter of Jeremias Montenegro.

The judge rejects the arguments made on Hugo’s behalf. He says that evidence presented demonstrated that Hugo was guilty. He hasn’t shown any remorse and has refused to name the people who helped him escape from jail. He reaffirms the death sentence and says that in view of the likelihood of another escape, the sentence will be carried out tomorrow at dawn. Impactado is not a sufficient word. Poor Hugo looks like a ton of bricks fell on him. Michelle is crying and Los Burque are saying that Hugo is a good man. The judge tells the guards to take Hugo away and lock him up in a high security cell. He asks if Hugo wants to say anything. Hugo looks around and says, “Tomorrow at sunrise you will all take pleasure in hanging an innocent man.” Marina looks satisfied. The evil ones smirk. Michelle says to him, “I promise…” Hugo responds, “There’s nothing to be done. Please tell Soledad that I’d like to say goodbye to her.” The guards take him away.

Ester tells Soledad that she will hate her after this but she has the right to know the truth. She tells Soledad the sad story of her early marriage that we’ve heard so often. She swears to Soledad that she is Lucas’ daughter. Soledad wants to know why her father thinks that Jeremias is the father. Ester tells Soledad that she was Jeremias’ lover and made him believe that she was pregnant with his child.

Arturo says to Alcides that he started with his brother and the next one will be him. Alcides says that he warned Arturo not to get in his way. He already lost a hand; he shouldn’t lose his head. Indicating Arturo’s stump, Alcides says, “You should take of that, it’s bleeding.” Alcides signals Eloisa to follow him outside. Michelle says to Alcides that he was generous with Hugo. “He’s my brother,” replies Alcides. Michelle says that she has heard such bad things about him. Alcides say that the bad things people say to ruin a man’s reputation are blown on the wind. It’s deeds that matter. He thanks her for defending Hugo and takes his leave. Eloisa follows him and Paquito takes note. Andres says to Michelle that they should leave. Michelle says that they have to tell Soledad what has happened. Poor woman, her father is sick and now this.

Soledad asks how Ester could have done this to her father. Ester tells her about her humble origins as a seamstress. She thought she was getting a better life when she married Lucas but he changed into a good for nothing alcoholic. Soledad says that isn’t an excuse. When you love someone, you don’t betray them. Ester says that everything she did was for love of Soledad. Ester knew what it was like to live in poverty. She took Jeremias as a lover, made him believe that Soledad was his child and Jeremias gave Ester the house they live in. Soledad says that she won’t judge Ester but she won’t justify her actions. Ester swears on all that is most sacred that Soledad is Lucas’ child. Dr. Dan comes out of Lucas’ room.

Alcides goes into a room in the courthouse. Eloisa follows. He asks if anyone saw her come in. She says no. Eloisa says that Alcides was wonderful the way he paid Hugo’s debts and then defended him. Alcides asks why Soledad wasn’t in court. Eloisa tells him about Lucas’ drunk denunciation and collapse. Alcides says everything went wrong. Eloisa is confused. “Tomorrow your brother will be hanged,” she says, “You’ll finally be rid of him.” “My brother Hugo can’t die,” responds Alcides. Eloisa is impactada.

In the woods, Boris tells Hercu-less to kill him once and for all. Herc lowers his gun and walks away. Boris says that he knows who he is. Herc pauses. Boris says that he knows that it is Alcides behind all this. Boris falls down a hill. Herc goes back and shoots at him.

Arturo returns to his carriage cradling his bleeding stump but Margot is gone. Gladis appears. She tells him that Lucas mentioned her daughter, Beatriz in court today. They have to continue to look for her. Arturo flashes back to Dr. Max telling him that Beatriz was murdered. He tells Gladis that Beatriz left of her own accord and Gladis should forget about her and go home. Gladis says that he is callous but he will regret this. Arturo tells the coachman to go to Dr. Max’s.

Dr. Dan says that Lucas’ heart started again (rats!) but the strain of confronting Hugo in court and his alcoholism mean that even if he lives, he won’t be the same. Dr. Dan says that everyone is helping Lucas because they are so grateful that Soledad founded the hospital. Soledad asks him what he means that her father won’t be the same. Dr. Dan refuses to say and says that he has to return to his patient. Ursula arrives. She asks about Lucas. Ester asks what happened at the trial. Ursula tells them that Hugo was condemned to death and will be hanged tomorrow morning. Soledad is impactada.

Eloisa asks what Alcides means by saying that Hugo can’t die. It’s what he always wanted. Soledad will be his. Alcides says that if Hugo dies, he’ll be converted in to a martyr and Soledad will be devastated and that isn’t his plan. Eloisa says that it’s too late to do anything. Hugo will be executed tomorrow. There’s no going back. Alcides says that the stupid judge condemned Hugo to death. If Alcides had wanted Hugo dead, he could have done it himself, easily. Eloisa says that sometimes she doesn’t understand Alcides. Alcides goes through his grudge against Hugo from when they were children. Hugo got all the love and tenderness. Alcides got yelled at. Even the fortune that he should have had was given to Hugo. “But now it is my turn to win,” says Alcides, “and Hugo has to witness it. I will win the heart of the woman I’ve always loved fair and square and Hugo has to be there to see it with his own eyes. There has to be a way to save him. The dead don’t suffer. Torture was made for the living.” To himself, Alcides says, “I have to stop Hercu-less. He can’t kill Boris.” He turns and leaves the room.

Hercu-less comes to the pond sex and picnic place. He’s a little nervous. Margot wants to know what his surprise is and Herc looks guiltily at a bag tied to this saddle that appears to be leaking blood (oh no! not Boris!).

Eloisa congratulates Marina on getting Hugo condemned to death. Marina says that she only did what Eloisa told her. Marina says that she has nowhere to go and Eloisa promised to help her. Eloisa asks if Marina expects her to give her money right in the courthouse? Marina should come to Eloisa’s house later and make sure she isn’t seen.

Alcides is riding around looking for Herc and Boris. He says they aren’t there. Way down at the bottom of a hill is something, presumably Boris. Alcides doesn’t see him and leaves.

Hercu-less tells Margot that he wants her for himself. He will buy a house. They can get married. Does she accept? She does. But right now he has to see someone. Herc leaves.

Arturo tells Dr. Max that he is in a lot of pain. Dr. Max asks what happened to the medicine he gave Margot. Arturo should be careful or he will lose his arm. Not to worry, says Dr. Max, he can cure Arturo and he has the perfect replacement for his hand – a hook!

Hugo is shoved into his cell. He says that he is innocent. He shouts it. He paces and remembers things from the trial. He screams that he is innocent. He screams out the window asking if there is an honest person in the city. The trial was a farce, a farce. He thinks, “Boris ran away? No, that’s not true. He couldn’t betray me. He couldn’t.” He cries.

Soledad says, “Hugo sentenced to death? My God.” Ester the witch says that Hugo deserves death for all that he has done. Michelle arrives. She asks how Lucas is. Ester says that he is in a very delicate condition but Dr. Dan is doing all he can. Michelle assures Soledad that Lucas will make it. Dr. Dan is great and she is a strong woman. Did Ursula tell her what happened with Hugo? Soledad says yes. Michelle says that it might not be the best time but Hugo asked if she would come and say goodbye to him before he’s executed. The credits roll.

Tomorrow: Hugo asks Soledad to forgive him and Dr. Dan finds out that Dr. Max killed his father.

Labels: la traicion

It was amazing that there weren't any wardrobe malfunctions when Rosario and Pepita were having their cat fight!

That's great! Feonando and Norma are both making themselves miserable to keep Gabriela from suffering.

The scenes with Jimena and Juan in the bakery were so cute.

I think Armando is realizing that it would have been a big waste of money even if his hired goons had kidnapped and killed Franco. He just has to wait and Rosario will get tired of his very irritating behavior and the fact that he doesn't have any money.

It was funny when Leandro agreed to give Óscar a job because he was wearing Jimena's perfume. Bad idea for him to work there though.

Looks like an exciting episode tomorrow.

Labels: gavilanes

Folks, feel free to add, subtract and correct any errors in this recap. All help is deeply appreciated!

Cap’n Sylvia Sharkbait came up with a brilliant system last night to identify the twins and so I quote her:

“In order to avoid confusion here is how I will deal with the twins:

CL = when CL is himself and out of disguise
Sandro = Sandro Arenas
S2 = when CL is disguised as his twin Sandro Arenas
"Sandro" = when people are talking about who they think is Sandro, but it's really CL”

Thank you, Cap’n Sylvia, and now on to tonight’s feature:

Sadly, the writers and producers have decided to make our very first review of last night’s episode a reminder of how Yadi can dribble herself all over just about any good-looking man. S2 is no exception. She dribbles while he looks over her proposal and declares there’s no problem with it—it’s a good proposal and the prices are attractive. Yadi simpers and gives no appearance whatever of being a competent businesswoman. She mistakenly calls him CL, corrects herself, and they do the now familiar routine about where he’s getting used to it. I guess he should be since he’s CL anyway. The old boy hasn’t lost his touch, because he seizes the moment and asks to tutear her, which totally makes her day. Her simpering reminds me of the fake orgasm Sally had in “When Sally met Harry.” Except Yadi really means it.

Paula snipes about Hillary Paris as Marely brings some papers she’s requested. Paula comments about what an arrogant type Hillary is. Personally, I can’t imagine who Paula’s talking about, but that’s her story and she’s sticking to it, obviously. Marely agrees, though. Paula doubts Hillary is taking Juan seriously.

“Sandro” can’t imagine why Juan wants to hire Laura. Juan doesn’t give him line, chapter and verse, he sketches out why he wants her and just tells “Sandro” to get the job done. “Sandro” is more than compliant. He’ll do whatever the boss-man wants. As a parting shot, “Sandro” congratulates Juan and points out how well Juan has done, moving from the bottom of the barrel to the top of the heap. Juan gets up, menacing—how does “Sandro” know he came up from the bottom to the top? “Sandro” notes how easy it is to come by information in this company. Juan wonders if “Sandro” is gossipy (bocón – big-mouth, boastful, backbiting, gossipy). “Sandro” denies it – and he’s not nosy, either (preguntón, one who asks too many questions) and briefly describes how he came by the information and that they’re more than willing to describe how Juan has come up the ladder. Juan stares at him, suspicious, and thought bubbles about how he thinks this guy is mocking him and how he likes this guy less all the time. He muses about how this guy seems like a wolf disguised as a Grandmother (un lobo disfrazado de abuelita) at times. [“Sandro” is at his snide CL best, which will trip him up in the long run, in my not-so-humble opinion.] Juan stops him and tries to send “Sandro” off on the task of the hour. Before “Sandro” goes, he tries to get Juan to go eat with him so they can “keep talking.” Juan weasels out—he’s going to eat with Hillary. “Sandro” mutters behind Juan that he should choke on his meal (que te atragantes en la comida- loosely translated, I hope you choke on the meal) while he’s climbing the social ladder (trepado). Juan swings around -- what was that? “Sandro” says that since they’re talking about food at the moment, he’s on his way to a little place where they have a spit roaster (asador). It’s a restaurant in Polanco [from http://www.mexicocity.com.mx/Polanco_i.html: “Polanco is located just in front of Chapultepec Forest and it is one of the most dynamic areas in the city. In this neighbourhood you'll be able to find the most sophisticated hotels, restaurants and the best shopping district. The main attraction of Polanco is being residential and commercial at the same time. Elegant flats and boutiques turn the area into a strategic business hub. Nevertheless it still has its original trendy atmosphere, great dinner options and at night it offers some of the best clubs in the city.”] It’s a great restaurant. “Sandro” walks in front of the bemused Juan telling him about “La Carne Atravesada” [which is delivered like an insult, so help here, anyone.] Juan is suspicious-impactado.

There are shoppers in the gallery whom Willy is busy serving while Ana grabs a moment to update Nidia on her love life. Nidia, the babysitter today, wants to know if Ana’s joined the team, flirting and sashaying. Ana shushes her and Nidia persists. The flesh is weak, death is a black hole and one needs to enjoy! [No doubt I mangled that dicho, so help here, all who can “la carne is débil, el muerto al pozo y una al gozo!] Ana ignores that and tells Nidia she and Willy prefer to take it step by step. [Well, at least Ana does.] They’re letting it all happen without forcing it. Nidia tells her that sounds about as exiting as taking an intensive English course in bed. “Good morning, Papi Rico, chami, chami, yes, yes” and Nidia punctuates this boring event with bounces on the bed to signify the action…..while she gives us one of “those looks.” Ana changes the subject altogether and asks how her work with Delirio in the home office is going. Nidia reports it’s been destined for failure from the get-go, and so it’s not going well.

Ivonne wants Pastor to know that she’s of the opinion that Juan’s not really very interested in Hillary Paris. She thinks it’s a scam to get Paula’s knickers in a knot. Pastor notes that the new VP is watching Paula carefully for her reactions. Ivonne is doubtful and Pastor continues that he’s taken Paula out to eat, sent flowers, doesn’t that suggest something? Ivonne thinks that was just for Paula to get some of his attention, but the one he really likes is Marely. [And you’re BOTH right, folks.] Pastor scoffs, but Ivonne points out he ate with Marely yesterday. Pastor is impactado. This guy’s a mystery! He notes that this guy seems worse than CL himself! Ivonne crosses two pencils at him to ward off the evil spirits of CL, may he rest in peace. [Anon #1, you’re right! There are pencils everywhere here!]. Pastor warns her to be careful with this guy, because he could be a wolf in sheep’s clothing (un lobo en piel de oveja). [¿Tú crees, Pastor??] How strange, Ivonne mutters, looking thoughtful.

Willy has come to chat with Ana at her desk. She tells him she’s worried about Nidia; she’s had problems finding work and her hubby is a zero to the left. [Two zeros, if you ask me.] Willy asks if Nidia will be able to pay the mortgage, and Ana confirms not only will Nidia not be able to pay that, but not even to live. Willy suggests that Ana ask Nidia to come and work at the gallery, they’ll have a lot to do for the exhibit and it wouldn’t be a bad thing to have a PR person. Willy says all this with a tad bit of reluctance; we are talking about Nidia here, after all. Ana is thrilled, is he willing to have this expense? She can’t believe he’d do this for her! She thanks him and gives him a kiss; he caresses her cheek and smiles lovingly at her.

Juan and Fern share a celebration in Juan’s office. This Hillary Paris netted Juan a 10! Seeing Juan when he got off the elevator with Hillary Paris….and Juan tells Fern he owes it all to his Juanito. Fern thinks after this at the very least he should be buying his son a bicycle or something. Man, such a beauty she is! Yep, she’s a goddess. A fantasy (aparición)! The boys dreamily discuss Hillary’s attributes. Everyone standing there with their jaws dropping….and Juan’s going to eat with her today. What? Yep, today.

Delirio rushes to his door with Nidia at his heels, possibly thinking he has a client—nope, it’s Gutis, sporting a beard and moustache. Delirio calls him a bad friend, a traitor and Gutis just chuckles at him. The boys face off and Nidia rolls her eyes.

As we return from commercial, we get a lead-in clip of Gutis laughing sleazily at us, which is Not a Good Sign. It probably means we’re going to have more filler and Gutis is central to the new filler. Delirio asks again why the h*** Gutis is there. Gutis wants to know what kind of greeting this is for an old friend. Delirio tells him it’s been a while and don’t count on any favors from him on account of “friendship.” Nidia throws her two cents’ worth in—he better not be counting on her, either. Okay, if they don’t want his friendship, he understands, but he has such a deal for Delirio. Gutis taps Delirio on the shoulder emphatically. What, Delirio wants to know, to end up in jail? Thanks, but no thanks. Business with you is of no interest to us any more because it always ends up badly. Nidia snarls that Gutis can get out of his own volition or Delirio can kick him out. She turns Delirio to her and asks, “right, Alirio?” Delirio, wuss that he is, backs right down. Nidia jumps in front and tells Gutis fine, if this rat of a husband of mine won’t dare to do it, I will. Delirio is much more comfortable throwing out the threats from behind Nidia. “Don’t force me, Gutierrez, to employ violence!” Gutis laughs with a scoff. He can’t believe Delirio after all they’ve gone through together. Well, he understands, and he’s leaving. After all, they’re good people, decent people. [Methinks I hear a sneer in this voice, folks.] Nidia agrees, although she knows he has to work hard to believe it. She tells him to go and never darken their door again. Nidia’s feeling pretty darn empowered after Gutis leaves quietly with no more discussion.

At the market center, Anga is excited that this is the beginning of a good commercial relationship with Farell without CL muddying things up. Yadi murmurs agreement. Anga continues that this really has promise to be a really big business deal. Yadi exults in agreement, and tells Anga they’ve gotten really lucky (killed the snake on Friday, one of my favorite dichos!). Kike joins them; he’s been waiting for them to go eat. She links her arm in Anga’s and tells Kike it’s a shame but she’s invited Anga to go eat. Anga smiles and tells her that’s not necessary. She insists it’s the least she can do. Kike is impactada and worried as Yadi says that Anga has behaved so divinely with her and Anga is embarrassed. He says she’s left him no choice but to agree. Yadi goes for some papers so they can do business over the meal. Anga wonders where she’s taking him and she tells him no taquitos or stuff like that, something much finer. She condescendingly tells Kike they’ll see him later. Anga tells him he’s in charge and Kike looks bien irritated, but what can he say? The pair goes off arm in arm and Kike scratches his head in concern and puzzlement.

Ana is still hard at work at the gallery, talking to Nidia. Ana wants to issue an invitation to eat. Nidia’s excited, how divine! She alludes to her misfortunes, but she’s not actually dying of hunger. Ana fondly tells her that Guillermo (Willy) and she have something to discuss with Nidia. Nidia’s pleased that the chomi-chomi will join them. She’ll make sure her gloomy old spouse and her granddaughter are squared away because her curiosity is piqued now.

“Sandro” gets a caller in his office—Marely wants to pop in. He invites her in, a trifle uncomfortable at her warm and welcoming smile. “Sandro” pushes at his glasses and goes back to his laptop while Marely brings him a pile of papers. Look at this, what do you think? What’s this, he wants to know. Marely tells him it’s the essay and she made progress the night before with his help. He scolds her –what does this have to do with your work at Farell? He hands it back to her with a scowl. Well, nothing, but….”Sandro” scolds even more that she shouldn’t think it’s right to be coming to distract him with this in the office. Marely looks like he slapped her and stammers that if it’s not a good moment……”Sandro” tells her it’s NOT a good moment. Sounding for all the world like his twin, he yells that he has IMPORTANT things to attend to and she comes to him with this stuff. He tells her to never interrupt him with such things and limit her work to things related to the office. Marely looks panicky. Are we clear? Yes, she responds softly. Excuse me. She frowns at him like he’s grown another head [which he has] and leaves quickly.

Delirio is napping at Casa Cachón in his favorite room, the office. A firm knock snaps him awake and to stand behind the desk. “Come in!” He calls a second time when no one enters. Running to open the door, he discovers he’s babysitting again. Nidia Micaela is ready for a walk in her stroller, a note pinned to the hood of the stroller. Nidia had to leave in a hurry and didn’t want to wake him. [A likely story, since she knocked hard.] Take care of this child as if she were your own. Delirio mutters in annoyance, then snarls in frustration at Nidia; meanwhile Nidia minces out as fast as her stilettos can carry her—right past a barely hidden Gutis stalking the house for the right moment. Gutis grins like the cat that caught a canary.

Sandro reads the paper at the kitchen table in the apartment. He remembers his lunchtime discussion with Marely. She told him when they ate that she didn’t remember a time when she’d had such a discussion with anyone, about something really important. He told her the same thing, and stammered his way through it until she asked if he was tongue-tied. He told her she made him a bit nervous. Sandro returns to the present with a happy smile on his face. [Ed. Note: Brother, are you in for a surprise about the damage your other half has done this morning at the office!]

Speaking of the Queen of Rome, Marely has to see Paula to unload about “Sandro’s” treatment of her moments ago. Has something happened to you, Paula wants to know? No, not to me, but to “Sandro.” What’s wrong? Marely describes how he offered help with her essay, including the book loan, and today he’s the biggest despot in the world about it when she wanted him to take a look and he told her to limit it to office work! Paula thinks he might be overwhelmed with work. Marely acknowledges she might have chosen the worst moment, but that doesn’t explain his strange attitude. Paula, our in-house expert on men, tells her they’re all like that. One moment they’re enchanting, and the next they’re making you feel way uncomfortable. Marely wants to know if Paula remembers the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde? Paula chuckles. You know, one moment he was a serious and kind guy, and the next he was a rabid crazy man. Paula chuckles again. Marely wonders if “Sandro” could be bipolar or have a split personality or something. Paula laughs outright—she doesn’t think so….but she thinks again. She agrees that it’s strange, but concludes it’s for everyone’s good. [WHAT is for everyone’s good?] Paula advises her little sister to quit thinking in horror film terms and they’ll go eat. Off they go.

“Sandro” sees them come into the lobby and scoots off so they don’t see him first. The girls are going for sushi down at the corner, and want to know if Ivonne will join them. Nope, she’s going with Fern. Ivonne has noted “Sandro’s” odd behavior and that he’s still lurking behind a pillar waiting for the girls to leave. She sees his scowl as he stalks back to his office, and she gets a thoughtful look.

Gutis has found his way into the Cachón house and Delirio tells Gutis that it’s his fault Delirio suffered undeserved shame and humiliation. Gutis grabs him by the tie and tells him not to be such a liar. He knows that Delirio was only locked up one night. They told him. Delirio wants to know what about the joke they made of him? Gutis wants to make up for it by again offering the best business deal of his life—and helps himself to Delirio’s liquor. All the while, Nidia Micaela is mellow in her stroller. Delirio supposes Gutis is still a refugee from justice? Yep, he supposes right, Gutis tells him. Delirio declares that Gutis is NOT going to set himself up in this house, Gutis heard Delirio’s wife. Gutis reminds Delirio that his wife was in on the deal to alter that will in the first place, and while she was busy covering up, he was spending time in the jail. They argue about the affair of the will cover-up. Gutis figures it’s been working okay while she’s at his side—he insinuates that Nidia is only with Delirio because of the cover-up. Delirio asserts that Nidia has realized that she loves him. Gutis tells him that this woman’s not going to really love him even in his dreams. But, let’s get to the point about this deal that will be in our best interest here. Delirio doesn’t want to hear it and tries to throw him out again. Gutis mocks him about how he’s keeping Nidia at his side with a vile trick.

Juan is finally on his way in a taxi to lunch with Hillary. He gives himself a pep talk about his date with this beauty and how attractive all his charms are—she didn’t make eyes at him just because he was such a great impresario. He sings a phrase from a song by José Feliciano. What will it be? It will be what it will be.

Apparently Gutis doesn’t give up easily. He’s still at it, trying to convince Delirio about his deal. All Delirio has to do is open some new bank accounts, and Gutis’ clients will use those—they surely will be moving a lot of $$. Delirio nails it right off the bat—so, we’ll be doing laundry? [Okay, that’s a very loose interpretation..] Yep, with other people’s money and gaining millions. Delirio strolls Nidia M. around the living room as he talks. Dangerous, Gutis, very dangerous. Gutis persuades; “wouldn’t you like to let Nidia have the life she deserves, take her to exotic places, buy all she wants?” Of course I would, Delirio agrees. Well? Why would Delirio close the door on this opportunity. Delirio points out that all Gutis adventures so far have ended badly for Delirio. Gutis interrupts and reminds him that nothing ventured, nothing gained. Nidia M. begins to whimper. Me, too. Gutis assures Delirio this will solve all his problems and help him win the greatest love of his life. [Right.] Delirio is softening—it’s tempting. But….Gutis won’t take no for an answer. But if Delirio wants to lose this great deal, Gutis will make someone else rich.

Willy and Ana enjoy a leisurely lunch while she tells him how she and Nidia are opposites. Nidia is spirited, lively (jacandarosa) and extroverted, scandalous and naughty, but she’s a good person. For Willy, it’s enough that they are friends and Ana trusts her. They look at Nidia noisily making her way toward them. Ana adds a note—Nidia is one of the main promoters of her romance with Willy. Well, then, he’s eternally grateful to her! Nidia joins them and immediately proceeds to be herself, totally embarrassing Ana. He’s such a gentleman! The waiter asks what she wants to drink, and Nidia orders a tequila. Ana nearly jumps at her over the table and Nidia retracts the order to give a more appropriate order-a sad and boring lemonade. Ana has said nary a word and Nidia got the message; Willy sits looking down at his plate, figuring out what it’s all about and noting a depth of understanding between the women. Nidia babbles on—she’s at their orders, and since she left her house has been thinking and thinking about what could be on their minds. She’s got various theories. Willy starts to explain and Nidia bursts in that they’re probably going to get married and want her to be the wedding sponsor! (madrina de bodas). Nope, Willy tells her, but it’s a magnificent idea! He looks at Ana, who tells Nidia not at the moment (but doesn’t negate the possibility). Nidia speculates they ate the torta early and maybe Ana’s pregnant. Ana is distinctly uncomfortable. It’s not about us, it’s about you. Ana tells her they have a proposal for her, that she collaborate with them in the gallery. Nidia is soooo happy and the amigas smile widely at each other, with Willy joining them.

Delirio has foolishly brought Gutis into the office. [Okay, that’s a judgment call on my part.] Apparently, Gutis has him hooked, but Delirio wants his assurance that Nidia will NEVER learn of his involvement in this. You heard her a while ago, she doesn’t want to see you, Gutis, not even in a painting! Nope, she won’t see Gutis and Delirio won’t have anything to do directly with Gutis, either. [Ed. Note: I just noticed that Gutis has lost his curly lock in the middle of his forehead! He doesn’t actually look like such a naco any more.] Instead, Delirio will see Sr. Maloro. Who’s that? Gutis stands, shakes Delirio’s hand, and announces he’s at Delirio’s service. He explains how he’s going to arrange it so she never knows a thing. Delirio thinks this sounds just fine and pats Gutis on the cheek to punctuate his satisfaction with the arrangement.

Hillary and Juan are clearly having a good time, and he’s telling her tales that amuse her about Akito, the Japanese man he met on the way to Achichipico who left him with the anthurium business, and as they say in Juan’s home town, like a burro who plays the flute. Hillary chuckles at the story. [There appear to be bodyguards [or, they could be the valet parking guys] over his shoulder watching the two of them eating]. He babbles on and Hillary tells him she’s never met anyone like him. [No doubt.] Like this, straightforward, authentic. He thanks her and jokes –what are YOU drinking? They laugh some more. Juan remarks that she’s so cute and must have mountains of admirers, or no? Mountains, yes, but they’re not the same. They’re like a bunch of clones, all trying to impress me all the time, and competing. She and Juan clink their glasses in camaraderie. You, on the other hand, are so natural. Juan muses to himself—what’s up with this? Have you seen me au natural? [Ed. Note: Oh, Sheesh, Juan.] Juan says he doesn’t have two faces, WYSIWYG [Loosely interpreted, amigos]. Well, from time to time he tells some of those little Holy Lies. Hillary tells him in spite of that, he’s a transparent man. One whose soul could be touched. Juan thought bubbles that if they’re getting into these areas, they’re getting red-hot. She continues that he’s a special man—incredibly special. While she continues, he muses about her lovely red lips, silky voice; it’s music to his ears. She’s destined for him, right, Papa Dios? She calls him back to the real world. Juan? Juan! What’s up, I’m here! He snaps back to join her. She tells him she asked him a question, so what does he say—yes, or no? Chinches Bravas, what would she have asked? What if she proposed marriage? He tells her he has to think about it. What, you have to think about if you want to be my friend? Juan makes like he was messing with her—you believed it! You believed it! They both laugh and so do we. Of course he wants to be her friend! And whatever else you want, divine child, he muses to himself again. He tells her what an honor it is for him to be near such a woman, who is so rich and so straightforward, having such a wonderful heart and sharing so much with everyone! Juan kisses her hand and looks her straight in the eye enchantingly. He compliments her eyes and caresses her cheek. Hillary, like women everywhere who meet Juan, smiles shyly.

Laura Berrocal strides across the Farell lobby with determination, in an outfit that is leftover from the early 70s mini-falda and weird stockings days. What was it you said, Cap’n Sylvia? She shops at “Skanks R Us? Julia meets her. Laura is looking for Sr. Juan Dominguez. He’s left to eat, Julia tells Laura, did you have an appointment with him, or what? Laura declares haughtily that she needs no appointment with Juan. [We beg to differ; nowadays you might very well need an appointment, Laura]. She’ll wait. Julia points to where she can wait, but he might be late. Laura says it’s not important, and could Julia bring her coffee? Julia is intrigued, of course. She’ll bring it. Sugar or no?.....”Sandro” sees Laura and approaches, greeting Laura. Well, you must be the twin brother of CL. Yep. She notes that they’ve seen each other during the interviews and she learned about his parentage. “Sandro” self-effacingly tells her he’s getting used to people looking closely at him for the similarities. Laura congratulates him on getting the VP position. “Sandro” says that Juan’s told him about her. Really? Yep. And he gave me the responsibility of personally helping you. Suddenly Paula and Marely come off the elevator and as Sylvia said so eloquently last night—“Laura arrives at Farell + Paula sees her = Catfight!” Paula tells her to get lost, please. Laura just stares.

Hillary is bidding Juan goodbye at the restaurant—where’s his car? He left it in the garage. She offers to take him wherever he needs to go, but he tells her he prefers to walk to work off his full belly. [Ed. Note: Apparently Hillary doesn’t mind the tie that ends mid-chest level]. Her car appears to be something like a Lamborghini or Ferrari—[I don’t know the difference, I just know the basic shape.] Later, he’ll hail a taxi when he’s worked off the meal. Fine, she tells Juan, and it’s the best meal I’ve had in a good long while. Can we have dinner together? Juan takes her hand to kiss it and nods—what?? Shyly?? Well, then, she asks—until tonight? Hillary draws his face down with one hand and gives him a kiss. Or two. Or three.

It seems they didn’t get the job done during the break and there are more kisses. They stroke each other’s cheeks, kiss and flirt. Juan is thought bubbling while he kisses, which I am told is unusual for guys, about how he never dreamed when the day began that by afternoon he’d be testing the honey of her lips! This would be the moment when he should sweep her into his arms and turn it into a real kiss. But, he’d run the risk of her seeing him too forward (lanzado) and that wouldn’t speak well of him. Hillary breaks the kiss and asks if he thinks her too forward (lanzada). He thought bubbles no way and tells her it enchanted him. She was so spontaneous. She tells him it would only happen when she met someone she liked so much. He thought bubbles to himself—didn’t I tell you? You have your way! Hillary wonders why he’s so deep in thought. He tells her he’s not really thinking, but being sure he doesn’t forget the feel of her lips on his. She asks if they’ll see each other in the evening and he tells her he’s ready [Ed. Note: If I were a suspicious person, I’d be suspicious about the wording he used, but I’m SUCH an innocent schoolmarm type. He said he’s more ready than a sock. Or a French Letter.] You say frog, and I jump. She smiles and chuckles at him. She walks off toward her car, her entourage of bodyguards with her, and abruptly returns to Juan. Do you know what? She tells him she hasn’t asked him the most important thing. What would that be? Are you a free man? He affirms that he is. Hillary is pleased, because she’s free, too. She finally goes to drive away in her beautiful red Italian car. [Could be a Maserati, too, what do I know except that it’s Italian? FWIW, the taillights are not Lamborghini or Maserati, and look more like Ferrari Enzo taillights to me.]

Meanwhile our favorite harpy has declared war right in the center of the Farell lobby. Paula wants to know qué the heck she’s waiting for and Laura screams back that Paula can’t throw her out. Paula wants to know if Laura wants her to call security to eject Laura. “Sandro” tries to get them to calm down. He informs Paula that Laura is looking for Juan. Since he’s gone out, “Sandro” will see to Laura. Paula tells him not to waste his time with Laura, they don’t have to give her any type of consideration. Laura wants to know why Paula has such poor manners. [Ed. Note: Those boots and nylons are super skanky. Just my two cents’ worth.] The girls continue to exchange insults, and Marely tries to get Paula to let “Sandro” take care of Laura. Julia tries to intervene at Paula’s request that she calls security and Marely gently tells her to hold on. She tries to get Paula to back off, but Paula wants to know what Julia’s waiting for. Laura confronts Paula—she’s not the sole owner of this company and she can’t dismiss Laura like she’s a nobody. Paula lunges forward to confront Laura up close and personal. Marely drags her back to calm her down. She’s making a spectacle of herself! Paula will give Laura five seconds to get the heck out. Laura announces she’s not going anyplace. “Sandro” asks Marely to accompany the Licenciada Paula to her office and he’ll see to Laura. Paula is NOT to be swayed. She counts. One, two….Laura squares off with crossed arms and “Sandro” interrupts—he’ll SEE to Laura. Paula’s not buying it. It’s an order. “Sandro” tells Paula that Juan asked him personally to take care of this. Ivonne rushes over to grab Paula and drag her to the office. “Sandro” actually looks distraught as Paula gets hauled to her office by her sister and Ivonne. Julia approaches –he tells her to let security know their presence isn’t needed. He drags Laura off to his office. She apologizes for all the shouting, but this woman (Paula) is increasingly too unhinged (desquiciada). She asks his pardon, but his blessed brother left her like someone in a nuthouse. “Sandro” looks totally bemused by this declaration. Laura asks if she can tutear him. Sure, of course. Laura notes that they are actually like “political relatives.” Her cousin Monica was married to his twin. She was so happy until this social climber (Paula) crossed her path. “Sandro” gives her a tight smile. Laura wonders how he can work with such a woman? “Sandro” excuses her—Paula’s had a difficult day. Would that Laura can forgive her. Whatever. “Sandro” changes the subject—Juan’s told him that Laura wants to work with them. Yes, Laura understood that she could begin little by little. She doesn’t have much of that kind of experience. She hasn’t worked in a while. Laura has high hopes and is hopeful that Paula won’t be a hindrance. “Sandro” notes that from what Juan told him, she can count on his help. Laura remarks on what a great guy Juan is and offers “Sandro” her resume. He notes that she appears to be a very well prepared woman and there shouldn’t be a problem offering her a very attractive position in the company. Really? Yep. He continues that it was very rude of Paula to treat her like that in front of everyone. That’s what Laura would say, too—this woman has no manners. She tells “Sandro” how agreeable he is, nothing like his brother. He was hateful. “Sandro” squirms uncomfortably and mutters that’s what everyone says. But there’s a question that intrigues him. What? Why is Juan so interested that you work in Farell? Is there a personal relationship between the two of you? Well, Laura hedges, they’re not sweethearts but they’ve been going out. Nothing formal yet. “Sandro” asks if she wants a tea or coffee while she waits for Juan. Laura remembers she had asked for tea a while back. “Sandro” calls Julia to bring it. Without sugar, she reminds him, and he calls Julia back.

The Harpy has continued her rant in her own office, thank heaven. That’s all she needs is for Juan to force her to have this woman working for her here. Marely and Ivonne try to calm and reassure her—she doesn’t know for sure this is the case. The three discuss the dilemma of Laura at about 110 decibels—at least Paula is at 110 dB. Paula throws out that “Sandro” was tasked with seeing to Laura personally by Juan. Paula is in a full swing hissy as the girls try to calm her. Ivonne sees a way out and runs to get her a cup of tea to calm her. Marely is stuck with her sister, trying to calm Paula. [Ed. Note: What a colossal waste of time!] It’s the last straw! First Hillary Paris and now this! Juan isn’t going to work because he’s hunting women everywhere? Marely looks sooo sad.

Willy tells Nidia that Ana wasn’t mistaken, Nidia is very nice. Nidia thanks him sweetly, and tells him that Ana is her best friend. She warns him to treat Ana well, because if he doesn’t he’ll have to deal with her. She brandishes fists at him. Willy holds up a hand, not to worry! Ana’s told him a lot about Nidia. She’s embarrassed if Ana’s told Willy what a mess Nidia made of the will. She swears to him that she’s very sorry. He knows. And he’s aware of the mortgage she is paying for the house, and that she’s needing work. Nidia teases Ana about her chattiness. [Yes, folks, that’s apparently a word because the spellchecker let it by.] When do they want her to begin working? ASAP, Ana tells Nidia. Willy tells her the timetable on it is flexible, but there’s lots to do before the exhibit. Vivaldi’s “Spring” plays in the background. Nidia remarks she was born to this (painted for this); she’s always given Ana good ideas. Ana notes that they have to keep a tight rein on Nidia because she is sometimes very imaginative….and the cuckoos sound.

Laura is still bending “Sandro’s” ear. There are lots of areas where they can collaborate, right? You choose, he tells her, what’s important is that you like working with us here. She’d like to talk it over with Juan. Of course. Laura whines that he hasn’t shown up, so when will he? “Sandro” smiles sardonically—he has no idea. Laura thinks she should go; she’s been wasting lots of his time and has caused problems. “Sandro” assures her it’s not a problem and she shouldn’t worry. Laura thanks him for the coffee and the chat; they’ll be in touch. He’ll accompany her to the lower level.

Pastor congratulates Heriberto on the flow chart. [Ed. Note: Who prepared that? Inquiring minds want to know.] Wow, did he do that good? Pastor evades a bit—“I just have to say I couldn’t have done it” and comes around the desk to shake Heri’s hand. Heri gives him a nice, big hug. He wants to learn. Pastor is very pleased with Heri. Heri is with Pastor, too. [Ed. Note: One wonders if they are talking about the same thing.] Pastor pushes—really? What do you like most about me? Heri lists Pastor’s good qualities—he’s such a good friend, the patience he has with Heriberto, gee, he teaches Heri better than the teacher Heri had in grammar school! Heri hugs Pastor’s shoulder and Pastor is enraptured. Pastor says that’s what he wants, to teach Heri lots of things and eventually tell Heri his story and reveal his soul. Heri thinks he’s a joker. He saw Pastor’s soul from the first day; Pastor’s a good person. What’s more, he’s Heri’s Mexico City buddy (compadre chilango=buddy who is a native of Mexico City). He gives Pastor a polar bear hug, dislodging Pastor’s toupee and shaking his teeth so we can hear them rattle. Heri pulls back, startled by this new view of Pastor with hair down in his face. Ay! Pastor scolds Heri to not be so effusive, for the love of God, as he rearranges his hair. Heri asks what the heck is that? He never knew Pastor’s hair was made of lies! Look at that, it’s the first time I’ve seen a man with a wig! Pastor is miffed. His romantic moment is a goner.

As Laura prepares to take the elevator down to the ground level, it opens to reveal Juan waltzing off and she rushes him—he’s finally arrived. “Sandro” observes with crossed arms. Laura gives Juan a big hug, though he tries his best to evade her collapsing against him. He wants to know what she’s doing here and she reminds him he told her to call but she felt like coming by to see what kind of work they were offering her. He points to “Sandro” who is standing by with folded hands waiting to see how Juan will put his foot in it now—I told him to take care of it so it wasn’t necessary for you to come by. She reminds him he’s promised at times and not followed through. She’s learned with him it’s better to get close. “Sandro” reports the bad news that Laura’s had such a disagreeable encounter with Paula. Juan is impactado while Laura tells him how rude Paula was, yelling and all that. “Sandro” saved the day, though, all kind and solicitous of Laura. Juan thanks “Sandro” who tells Juan that he’s checked out Laura’s work preferences and paperwork with her. Great, thanks. Laura looks him square in the eye to tell Juan she was on the way out but she’d rather stick around and chat with him. “Sandro” looks at the floor, knowing Juan is in yet another tight spot. Juan assures her he always has time for her and ushers her to his office. Laura waves over her shoulder at “Sandro,” thanking him and telling him it was a pleasure. He mutters that the pleasure was his.

Heri and Pastor have returned to normal, sitting at their respective places in Pastor’s office. Heri is telling Pastor his plans to excel, and begin to earn more money, and make Ivonne HIS! Pastor rolls his eyes and tries to disabuse Heri of his plan. Heri points out that hope is the last thing that dies. Pastor has to admit that he subscribes to that notion, too. [Ed. Note: As we have seen repeatedly over the course of nearly a year, Pastor.] Pastor checks his watch, qué bárbaro, it’s time to eat. Want to go out with me to eat? Heri thanks him, but says he’s got a lot of work to do. Well, Pastor tells him, it can be another day. Heri talks about the assignments he has that Pastor gave him. Heri rushes off and Pastor watches him leave, a bit irritated. Then he adjusts the toupee carefully.

Delirio is a picture of abuelo-hood as he carries Nidia M. into the bank while he pushes her stroller. The teller asks if he can help, and Delirio says he can; Delirio wants to open an account with them. The teller begins to go through the list of choices.

Kike and Remolacho are still holding the fort at Anga’s market stall. Remo wants to know why he keeps checking the clock and Kike retorts it’s because his boss is out with his wife. [Ed. Note: seems like a good enough reason to me.] It sure is taking them a while to eat, right? Remo quotes him a dicho about when folks are sharing a table, time flies, right? Kike charges him, not wanting the lovely dichos. He reminds Remo that Yadi is HIS wife and she didn’t even ask him along! Remo remarks to Kike that this will keep him in good with the old man, right? And he’s going to the corner for tacos, does Kike want some? Kike pushes him. No, get out of here! He glowers.

Juan has Laura settled in his office and lets her vent about Paula a little. Paula’s the only bad thing about working here. She’ll run into Paula. Juan thought bubbles that he has the same problem with Sandro. Juan gives her a pep talk to be very strong. He’s sorry Paula has this ugly attitude with Laura. Laura can’t understand Paula’s rancor since it’s been such a long time ago! Juan comments that some folks don’t forget easily when they’re given trouble. Laura just smiles and tells him she has to go and let him work. He’ll call her to let her know more later. Laura tells him that she wants a good salary [Sheesh] and nothing out of the normal, except to be paid well. Juan thought bubbles about how Paula demanded he give Laura a real slap like he gave to “Sandro” with that salary –and he gives Laura a kiss. She gives him another hug, telling him she’s his new employee. He mutters thanks for her visit into her hair and she thanks him for receiving her while they hug, and Paula bursts in with no knock.

We are thankful to finally see the message that “any similarity to reality is purely coincidental.”

Monday: Will the catfight continue? Will we care?

Vocabulary: It’s embedded, folks. If I have time in a day or two to extract it and list it here, I will. Discúlpanme!

Jeanne

Labels: Juan