Caray, Caray!

Many of us have been wondering just how many times our cute characters can keep catching each other kissing, how many times Mau and Moni can break up and reunite the same day, and above all, how can this show possibly last over 200 episodes without getting repetitive? Well, tonight, we may have the answer, as we finally get some real drama. I’m not sure I like it, and who knows where it will lead, but our perfect little world ain’t quite so pretty anymore. Let’s see what happened.

Isabel collapses to the ground in the vecindad. Alicia says Moni has to know the truth – her mother is dying, and Valentina is the only one who can save her! Nieves adds that she knew Alicia was terminally ill (desahuciada), but urges Alicia to explain the Moni saving her part. But there’s no time, says Alicia, we have to get her to a hospital. Moni, tears flowing, cradles her Mamá’s head, begging her not to die, kissing her hair tenderly.

Mientras tanto, Aldo and Estrella are also kissing, albeit not quite as tenderly. In fact, Aldo laments that he’s “dying” to “be” with Estrella, but she’s a bit relieved they didn’t have money for the hotel room. Aldo kisses her again (and across the way, Connie captures this moment with her high-end camera).

Isabel is strapped to the gurney, loaded into the ambulance, as Beto gives Moni words of encouragement. Moni will ride with her Mom, and asks Paula to call Mauricio to let him know what’s happening. Paula also calls Estrella, effectively rescuing her from persistent Aldo, who, once having gotten the idea that he’s about to get lucky, can hardly think of anything else.

In the hospital waiting room, Moni’s crying, Beto’s pensive, but just as he gets up to console Moni, his rival appears. Mauricio, equally as sad and caring as Beto, presents a strong physical contrast – while Beto is sporting his trademark tee shirt and jeans, Mau, a good head taller, is wearing an off white suit over a light purple dress shirt, unbuttoned. Beto silently hits his fist against the wall in frustration. After Mau gives Moni comforting words, Beto tells him he’s not wanted here, this is a family matter. Of course Mau says it’s between him and Moni, and Nieves cautions the boys this is not the time and place for an argument. The doctor comes out, relates that Isabel’s condition is fragile. He tells Moni that the only way to save her Mom is a bone marrow transplant (trasplante de médula) that only she can provide. The life of her mother is in her hands!

Across town, Connie tells Jerry why she’s smiling like a cheshire cat. She’s just taken some juicy photos of Aldo kissing that slut Estrella. So far, nada with Luisa and Ivan, but she’s working on it. And how about you, Jéro? Got Mau’s little trip lined up yet? (they have to get him out of town for a few days, so Connie can work on the judge). Yep, Mau’s agreed to go to Mérida, and Oscar’s got a golf date today with the judge. Everything’s going well (toda marcha sobre ruedas, literally everything’s going on wheels). Enter Ximena with lots of packages, she’s been shopping for the boda, and is her usual super upbeat self. But where’s my brother-in-law? asks Jerry, exasperated. He’s right behind me, pipes Ximmy, then realizes maybe Rolu might have a problem following in his wheelchair. She calls in the hall, Rolu!!! Not there. Wait a minute, she has to think (not so easy for her), and presses her fingertips to her forehead to get the ol’ brainwaves flowin’. Okay, let’s see. She was pushing him along, looking in some display windows (aparadores), saw some divine things, told Rolu not to move, went inside, bought all these cool little things for the photo album for the wedding, and came home feeling fine (“muy tranqui”). Connie laughs, where’d you leave him? Not sure, says Ximmy, as Jerry grabs her around the throat, he wants to kill her for her carelessness, she HAS to get married to that guy. Ximmy needs a little help, how about it, Connie? Connie doesn’t give a damn (me importa un pepino – literally, I don’t care a cucumber) about Ximmy’s happiness, and flounces out, leaving Ximmy to the mercy of Jerry and his murderous ways, as he grabs another weapon, and Ximmy protests, no, el cojin, no, porfis (please, not the cushion)!

Mau asks the Doctor if there’s any risk to Moni if she donates bone marrow. The Doctor says no, but of course there will be monitoring (seguimiento) of Moni, if she agrees to donate. She immediately agrees, although Mau, still looking guilty, asks her to think about it. But there’s no time, and Doc is going to get everything ready. But first he asks if she has fasted (estás en ayunas?). Turns out she hasn’t eaten anything all day, which is actually good for this operation. Mau and Moni go to visit Isabel, leaving Beto to complain he’s left out in the cold like a tombstone (lápida).

Time to find Rolu! Ximmy’s putting up missing posters, showing Rolu in his cast, but she’d rather have put up a poster of Rolu looking handsome in his racing outfit. Jerry reminds her how dumb that would be.

With Mauricio silently observing, Moni tells her unconscious mother that since Isabel gave her life, this donation is the least Moni can do in return. And they have so many things to tell each other, her Mamá HAS to survive. She still doesn’t know why her mother left her, but begs her not to leave again. The nurse tells Moni it’s time to go. After they leave, Mau looks at Isabel, saying to himself, what have I done? (what is he hiding?)

In the waiting room, Beto and Mau spar a bit more. Mau ask Aldo not to tell his sisters, and by the way, how did he find out? From Estrella. Huh? Estrella volunteers that Aldo left a book in the barrio, and came to get it (yeah, right). Alicia gives Mau encouraging words.

At the police station, Cristian’s desk cop informs him that a missing person (persona extraviada) was brought in, and it’s Cris’s turn to make the report. Affirmative, says Cris, where is he? Well, he can’t talk, and there he is. Cris turns, and Rolu is wheeled in. Cris gets out his notepad, and proposes that if the answer is yes, the subject should look Cris in the eyes. If it’s no, the subject should close his eyes (wonder if Rolu’s getting confused with all these communication systems?). Question 1: Are you in danger? Rolu stares right at Cris. 2: Did someone abandon you on purpose? Eyes shut. 3: Who did it, a man? Eyes shut. 4: Okay a woman, then. Your novia? Slight pause, then eyes shut tight. Cris takes the pause to be a maybe. He puts down the pad. He understands. Novias are dangerous. At first, they’re so nice. Then they get jealous. Then they get violent. He bends down close to Rolu’s face. But you know what? he confides. I love her. And I miss her (starts weeping). Oh, my Pau. Rolu looks is if he’s in a nuthouse.

Beto’s nerves are making him hungry. Nieves gives him some cash, says to go get a sandwich, bring back change. Mau gives Aldo money to buy Estrella, Paula and himself something, and they go off, leaving Nieves to confront Mau. She knew about Isabel’s sickness, but didn’t know that Moni could save her. She looks up at Mau. Did you know? Mau admits he did. Then why didn’t you tell me? Maybe Isabel got close to Moni just for this. Mau is silent, but Alicia comes over, and says that’s enough. Nieves isn’t deterred. She looks Mauricio in the face, and tells him that if Isabel is playing some game with Moni, has come here just for the transplant, and then is going to leave Moni again, and Mau knew about this, Mau is going to pay very dearly. He’ll lose Monita para siempre!

At the station, a jubilant Ximena greets her favorite invalid. One moment, señorita, injects Cris. The subject named you as responsible for his condition, so we have to detain you for investigation. Jerry tells Cris of the pure love his sis has for the subject. Ximmy says she’ll treat him like one of her prize jewels. But the declaration, protests Cris. What are you talking about, this guy can’t declare anything, look at him. Rolu closes his eyes to say no, but it just looks as if he’s a zombie, so Cris is convinced, and will release the subject, just needs Jerry to sign a receipt.

Randy Aldo tells Estrella they could find an empty hospital room to….you know. Getting desperate huh? she kids. Must think about it 10 times a day. More like 100, he corrects. Tano enters, and they awkwardly separate. After asking about Moni, he asks what’s up with Aldo. Aldo says what are you waiting for? Tell him you’re through with him and with me now. Estre’s a bit tongue-tied.

Moni has donated the marrow, and is recovering in a hospital bed. Both Mau and Beto are there. Mau woos her with soft words, Beto offers to get some snacks, leans in to give her a quick kiss, but is pulled back by Nieves, who tells him not to pester (hostigar) la Monita. Moni recoils a bit from the onion smell, but wants to know about her Mamá. They don’t know yet, but the Doctor is with Alicia. The door opens, and the Doctor and Alicia walk in, very slowly. The music sounds dark. Moni has a hopeful smile. But Alicia shakes her head, and the Doctor says, I’m sorry, but she couldn’t endure the operation, and she passed away (falleció).

Mau tries to dry Moni’s tears. Beto can’t bear to be in the room with Mau right there, and walks out. Moni can’t believe it, she finally had her Mom with her, had her affection, and now she’s gone. Alicia and Nieves leave Mau and Moni alone. Mau assures her that her Mamá left in peace because she got to see her, be with her, and will continue being with her. Moni feels alone. Mau says she has her neighbors, her friends, and she has him. He loves her. Never abandon me, she implores. Never, he replies and bends down to give her a gentle kiss.

In the hall, Tano doesn’t want explanations, he’s through with Estrella, after hearing Aldo say Estrella came back to HIM. He stalks off, and Estrella’s a little peeved at Aldo, too, so she pushes him away, and goes off in another direction.

Moni is happy her Mom found out that she (Moni) loved her. Mau thinks that Isabel felt guilty for all her errors, but since you pardoned her, she was at peace. Moni wants to go talk to her (dead) Mom, one last time, but Mau says Moni has to rest from her operation. Besides, I’m with you now, he adds. Let me cuddle you (déjame apapacharte). Moni still wants to see her Mom, but Mau says that’s up to the doctors. Then at least Moni wants to go the chapel and pray, light a candle (veladora). Mau agrees, he’ll get a wheelchair.

Beto complains to his Mom that he can’t get near Moni, but Nieves reminds him that Mau is the novio now. Others start to get the news, Aldo, Estrella, Paula. Mau asks Nieves to help keep everyone together, and not bother Moni in the chapel, while he has to go take care of the post-mortem procedures (trámites). Alicia tells Mau that Isabel had requested something if she died, and her wishes must be respected. She goes with Mau.

In the chapel, Moni asks the Lord to care for her Mamá. Tell her I never hated her, despite what I said, how could I hate the woman who brought me into the world, without whom I could never be talking to You now? Beto is behind her, tenderly strokes her hair. Moni says she was asking God to care for her Mamá. Of course He will, says Beto, and I’ll care for you. Can I hug you? Of course, I need you, and they hug. (Amazingly, no one walks in to interrupt). Beto continues. Although you no longer love me, I’ll always care for you, and I’ll always be there for you, in good times and bad. Although I prefer the good ones. But I’ll always be close, remember that. She kisses his cheek, he kisses her hand, and gives her privacy to resume her prayers.

Estrella tells Aldo in no uncertain terms how disappointed she was with him. She wanted to explain things to Tano, and by Aldo’s shooting off at the mouth and bragging that Estrella was his now, he really acted immaturely. Well, says Aldo, I have to defend what’s mine. What’s yours? What am I, an inflatable doll you got from Santa Claus? (She actually says "from the Three KIngs", who are the Mexican Christmas gift-givers). She doesn’t want to see him now, and goes to comfort Moni.

Moni’s back in her hospital bed, Paula and Nieves are comforting her, and Estrella joins them. Beto’s also in the room, sitting in a chair. But where’s Mauricio? Taking care of procedures. Gabi and Sal arrive, give their condolences. Sal asks when the wake (velorio) will be. Alicia enters, there won’t be a wake. Isabel was very clear, she wanted to be cremated, for no one to cry, and didn’t want a mourning (luto) period. But, but, but, Moni starts to protest. Alicia repeats it was Isabel’s final wish, and Mauricio’s taking care of the details now.

In the hall, Beto calls Connie on the phone, he needs her. She’s not in the mood. Well, adds Beto, I know you like me for my body, but what about my sad soul? I’m in the hospital. Connie laughs, still the zipper thing? No, the mother of La Monita died, can you believe it? This perks Connie RIGHT up. She figures Mauricio is there, then just hangs up on Beto. Ximena is with Connie, and Connie tells her la changa mayor se murió (the older monkey died). Ximmy is shocked. Connie sits down, kicks up her feet, eats a cherry, and gloats about Moni’s pain, but that’s NOTHING compared to what she’ll feel when I crush her like the cockroach she is! She’ll be as dead as her mother. Ximmy thinks this is quite ugly of Connie and she’s very mala. Yeah, says Connie, you better not get on my bad side, so keep your mouth shut! Ximmy zips it, throws away the key.

Mauricio enters Moni’s hospital room, which is filled with all her friends, carrying a small, polished wooden box, containing Isabel’s ashes. He gives it to Moni, who starts, Mamita, then stops, this can’t be my mother. I had a Mamá, now all I have is this.

After the commercial, we’re at the funeral. Most of our characters are there, all in black (some are less formal than others, Ivan has sort of a goth tee shirt). It’s a sunny day, and the priest says a prayer. Moni’s holding the wooden urn. The priest says she can deposit the ashes into the niche in the wall of what I believe is called a columbarium. She sadly places the box in the niche, and turns to hug Mauricio. But as she looks over Mau’s shoulder, her face turns from sad to angry, and she asks “what is THAT woman doing here?” It’s Connie, not missing the opportunity to twist the knife. Please get rid of her, says Moni to Mau. Mau turns to the red-clad Connie, tells her there’s no reason for her to be here. Connie says she just came to give condolences (el pésame) to Moni in her moment of sadness. Mau sees right through her, firmly requests that she leave. And she does, putting on her sunglasses, but breaking into a secret smile on the way out.

Beto lowers his sunglasses, decides to follow Connie. Nieves lowers her eyes, decides to follow Beto. Beto catches up to Connie, how come you’re wearing red? Well, it’s the color of passion, I just want to raise your spirits. You’re raising, you’re raising, pants Beto, he wants to go off with her, when from behind he hears “Roberto Ochoa, where are you going?” It’s Nieves. Beto’s going for some companionship. If old Doll Hair gets Moni, he’s getting some comfort, too. And by the way, Ma, if you want to help, make some food! He gives her a list. Nieves can’t believe he’s going with La Flauta (Nieves’ nickname for Connie). Why not? replies Beto. She’s my boss. I’m just going to WORK (hint, hint). And they’re off, arm in arm.

Back at the columbarium, Paula and Estrella promise to keep Moni company, they’ll do lots of stuff together to cheer her up. Mau will, too. Cristian shows up with some nice flowers, offering his condolences (in cop speak, of course, giving condolence for “the tragic and final outcome of her progenitor”). Nieves invites everyone back for tamalitos and atole (which is what Beto requested).

Ximena tells Rolu it’s the first death they’ve been to together, isn’t that romantic? But she wonders, since Moni’s Mom just died, should they postpone the wedding? Rolu quickly blinks twice. But Jerry jumps in, telling Ximmy there’s nothing better after a funeral than a nice wedding. Ximmy likes his philosophy, isn’t it great Jerry is so positive? She tells Rolu the wedding’s on!

Sal gets really close to Gabi, who calls him guapo, but warns him not to get too close, Lorenza’s right over there, and Gabi doesn’t want to be the next one to fill those niches. However, Lorenza may have other things on her mind. Oscar slides up to her, can’t get over their little trap (encerrón) from the other day. Ssshh, I’m a married woman, she whispers. Fine, he replies, if you want me to leave, just say the word. Her reply? “We’ll meet in one hour in the same hotel.” As she fans herself from the heat, he whispers in her ear “Don’t forget the whip!”

Moni wants to stay a little longer with her Mamá, her Mamá’s going to be so lonely in this place, it’s so cold. Mauricio comforts her, he’ll stay with her. We see the plaque, Isabel López, 1960-2008. The sad episode ends.

But the previews are a shock!!! Mau’s phone rings, and Isabel’s alive! They faked it, and Mau knew about it, although Mau tells Isabel Valentina was destroyed! Here come the anvils!

Vocabulario:

Desahuciar – to declare terminally ill, also means to evict, in another context
Toda marcha sobre ruedas – everything’s going well, literally everything’s going on wheels
Aparador – a store window or display window
Me importa un pepino – I don’t give a damn, I guess Rhett could have said to Scarlett, “Francamente, mi querida, me importa un pepino!”
Cojin – cushion
Seguimiento – monitoring, or tracking of an animal or satellite
En ayunas – on an empty stomach, to have fasted, note that desayuno means breakfast
Una persona extraviada – a missing, or lost person
Hostigar – to pester, to bother
Déjame apapacharte – let me cuddle you

Labels: gancho

...and fortunately for us, not about Bruno.

From yesterday:

MJ and Alex go back to the hotel room and the dinner for 2 shows up.

Paula talks with her mouth full which makes it even more difficult to understand her and tries to convince her dad to talk to MJ and get her to go through with the marriage for all their sakes.
Wine drinking and laughing leads to some heavy duty making out. Between kisses Alex tries to convince MJ that this is a good thing and they are married so its ok. (Kind of reminds me of the old Meatloaf song Paradise by the Dashboard Light). MJ says something but frankly I'm not paying that much attention to what is being said. Whew! Hose me down. MJ puts a halt on things and sits up and turns away. She says it is too hasty (precipitado) and she's tired. She says there's nothing to say. You've lost your memory and you don't know me. If you only want someone for an adventure that is not me. Alejandro looks a little—frustrated, to say the least. She says if nothing else she has her dignity and stomps out. Alejandro calls himself an imbecil.

Today:

The next day they are having breakfast at the hotel with Pedro who is all gussied up and looking his Sunday best. He goes on and on about how lucky Alejandro is to have a wife so young and beautiful like MJ. Alex agrees. Pedro says the breakfast is so delicious. Paula looks bored and tells her dad that it's just breakfast, so get over it. Pedro is gushing about what a dream it is and how beautiful the place is and the waiters are so attentive. Alex looks amused and reaches over with his fork and stabs some food off of MJ's plate. Why do men do that anyway? I think she needs all the food she can get so knock it off. Pedro apologizes about being so excited and says they are just simple (sencilla) people and aren't used to it. He can't wait to tell his friends all about it. Then he raises his orange juice and makes a toast to the happy couple. Alex says he has to leave because he has some things to do. Pedro again thanks him and Alex tells him he's welcome (no hay de qué). He pays the check and leaves. After he leaves Pedro says what a good man he is. He is very attentive. What good luck for you!

Now we see Alex's real motive for visiting Pedro and that is to do some first rate detecting. He starts by going to the public records office and asks for a copy of the marriage certificate. He looks at it and asks if there are witnesses (testigos) the clerk says yes. He says he would like to look at the book to see the signatures and says he'd like to talk to the judge. Good luck with that! The clerk says that the book is not open to the public but he will go check and be right back. The clerk comes back and says the judge is out of town indefinitely and the book is missing. Alex says thank you and takes his envelope and leaves. He goes to the address of the first witness and finds that it is a public laundry place. He goes to the address of the second witness and asks a man who is sweeping if he knows the witness and he says no. Hmmm, you can see the wheels turning.

MJ and Pedro are walking and talking in the market. He is still singing the praises of Alex and MJ tells him that she's only known him for 2 weeks. Pedro says when he met her mother he knew immediately that she was the one. Pedro asks MJ if Alex suspects anything. MJ doesn't think so. She says something about cat and mouse and I couldn't understand the first part. (Readers, please feel free to fill in the blanks.) This man is good Pedro says and he's educated. He has a respected name. MJ says she doesn't accept the name just to keep them out of jail. It's what you want. I'm ashamed and it is dishonest.

Alex shows up at the house and hands his envelope to the driver who's been keeping a watch over MJ. Alex tells him they will be leaving. Alex asks him if MJ left. Driver says she went to the market with her father. Pedro tells MJ not to worry if she wants to tell Alex the truth when he returns it was all the fault of oh what's his name? Bruno, yeah that's the ticket. Bruno. There's a knock on the door and Alex has returned. He tells her that if she doesn't have any other plans they are going to head home. Paula comes flying in in a huff and says she didn't get accepted back to the school. She'd missed too many classes. Alex asks her what she is studying and she says computers. He tells her that they have a fine school in Mérida and why doesn't she come back with then? Paula is overjoyed. MJ pours cold water on everything and says that her dad can't stay there alone. Pedro says sure I can. Alex comes up with the brilliant idea for Pedro to come to Mérida with them kind of like a vacation. Pedro is ecstatic and Paula starts squealing. Ack! Alex tells them to all get packed so they can leave. Pedro thinks Alex is the cat's meow and just can't stop thanking him. MJ tells him he doesn't have to do all this for her family and he says he wants to. However, his real purpose was to distract everyone so he could grab the picture and stick it down his pants. Maybe if he unbuttoned the button it would help get that picture hidden better. You know, I could help with that. It's not bathing or swimming but a girl has to take what she can get. Uh, sorry, I got distracted.

Back at the Hacienda de Rainbow Brite we see Raquel and Maura playing scrabble with lots of cleavage showing. Maura said something but it was cut off but I think it had something to do with Alexandro. Raquel says he's always busy with work. They gossip about Alex marrying MJ and just can't believe it. Maura says there is proof but Raquel says who knows. He hasn't said much. Maura thinks it is just strange. It's very mysterious. Maura thinks Raquel should ask her mom. Surely her mom will know.

Bruno and Pimp Daddy E (PD for short) are talking and PD says it was an easy plan. Remember when we talked about it at the disco? She was the perfect woman. We flashback to when Bruno first met MJ at the disco. Bruno says your cousin messed everything up. It cost a lot of money. PD wants to know what else they could have done. The car blew up. Could you imagine that Alejandro would survive it? Erik says that Alex has more lives than a cat, and Bruno said that even a cat can die.

In the Hummer Paula in her annoying voice is telling her dad about the house. It's so big and beautiful and each room has its own bathroom. Pedro looks fascinated. Alex is talking to Zeke on the phone and asks him to call Fernando and have him come to the house this evening. He turns and smiles fondly at MJ who is staring out the window.

Victoria and Felipa are talking in the office. Victoria says that when they were children Bruno resented Alex and Raquel was arrogant. I never told them they were the children of Antonio. I didn't want them to think I was an adulteress. Felipa says not to think about it. Vick says I've kept it in all these years. I lived those marvelous years with 3 children and Antonio. One day I will have to give in and tell them. Felipa tells her that she is sure they love her. They will understand. There's a knock at the door. Zeke walks in and says he's sorry to bother her but Joven Alex just called and is on his way home and that he is bringing the father of MJ. She wonders why Alex lied to her about where he was going.

Maura slinks up behind Bruno and wants to know what he is doing there alone. He says nothing, and doesn't look like he wants to talk. Maura wants to know if Alex is back and what does he think of his sister-in-law. Think about what he wants to know. She's got something up her sleeve but he says he's not interested what do you want? You know Alejandro and I were together. He was together with lots of others says Bruno. Maura thinks he didn't marry well. You are in love with her but she's not in love with you. How do you know she's not in love with me? Maura says if you are so sure of your sex appeal I have an opportunity for you. Are they playing “I'll show you mine if you show me yours?” I think Bruno is losing and should really button up that shirt.

They arrive at the house and Pedro just can't imagine being the owner of all this. Congratulations he says to Alex. MJ says she can't believe her father is here and thinks that Bruno is going to be furious. Victoria is talking to Hernan and Fernando and making some hideous flower arrangement. Why didn't he say where he was really going? Fernando says maybe he changed his mind. Victoria says he always justifies what Alex does. Alex introduces everyone and Pedro looks really nervous. Zeke walks up and stops dead in his tracks. I can't quite figure out the look on his face. Is he surprised? Or disgusted? I can't tell. Zeke leaves to get the luggage and show him to the guest house. Victoria says Alex has the right to invite whoever he wants to the house but she doesn't understand why he didn't tell her where he was going. He says MJ doesn't like to be too far from her papa. Victoria's no dummy so she's not buying it.

Pedro is amazed at how beautiful the place is. The lakes and the the gardens. Alex and his family live like kings. Maura walks up to Raquel who is on the other side of the lake and says oh look it's your little sister-in-law. Who is that with her?

Hernan wants to know why Alex lied and he says he had to check out something. What kind of things? I had to find out what was going on. There was a very interesting description of Alejandro Lombardo. Dark hair, strong, young. The same description they gave at the apartment. It's a very different Alejandro Lombardo. I went to look at the marriage license and the witnesses for MJ were her father and her sister. The witnesses for me turned out to not exist. One address was a public laundry and the other never heard of the witness. He said the judge is out of the country indefinitely and he can't check the original signatures since the book is missing. It's very interesting. Fernando thinks someone planned it very well. Alex thinks the accident was no accident. Hernan says it could have been a drunk driver. Alex says (big pause) someone was trying to kill me. No! Really? What was your first clue? Dun, dun, dun Alex asks that they don't say anything and Hernan says if that is what you want, of course.

Paula tries to convince MJ that everything is going to be ok but MJ thinks they might be thrown out of the house. Pedro comes out of the bathroom and just amazed at the bathroom and finds there is beer in the frig. How totally exciting! Pedro is worried that he made a bad impression on Victoria and Alex's friends. MJ reassures him that everything went just fine. Pedro is worried that MJ is so sad. He tells her none of this is her fault. If he finds out I'll tell him it was my fault for everything.

Fernando doesn't want to say anything to Victoria and for certain doesn't want Bruno to find out the latest news. Fernando doesn't think it is Pedro but he is sure there is another accomplice, If MJ was a cold calculating woman she could convince me that she was my woman. She could have another side. Fernando thinks that if they accept that plan then she could convince him they were married. Do you have confidence in her? Perhaps. Alex says that is exactly what I was thinking. Too many times she was afraid. Very afraid. There were things that if they were discovered the blame could fall on the family. Alex wants to know what is going on so that is why he invited the father here. Fernando says that we know the man is tall, strong, with dark hair, knows your signature and knows when you are coming and going. He hates you and wants you dead. They both come to the conclusion that Bruno fits the description. Duh! No kidding. Fernando wants him to be careful and think of the scandal this would cause to the family. And most importantly think what it would do to Victoria. Alex says a scandal doesn't interest him. I think of my mother all the time. Fernando says he does too. Hmmmm, that's interesting! Alex pulls the picture out of the desk and gives it to Fernando and asks him to check it out. Fernando leaves and runs into Victoria in the garden. She wants to know what the boys were talking about. Fernando tries to shovel some BS her way but she is way too smart for that. Tell me the truth. I have to know what is going on. He tries to convince her that everything is normal but she knows better and says nothing is normal. She says they met in Cancun, she's always nervous and they are never together. You know and I'm not stupid. I have to know what is going on. You are my friend. He still tries to get her to believe everything is fine but she says this is her family and she has a right to know what is going on. Maura is slinking around in the background trying to listen to every word. Fernando gives Victoria a hug and looks at her with those puppy dog eyes and says he understands completely. He says forgive me and gives her a kiss on the cheek.

Raquel barges in and demands that Zeke tell her who was with MJ. He tells her it was MJ's father. Raquel wants to know why the father of this woman is here. Like it is really any of her business. Victoria says he is here for a visit. Raquel makes an insulting remark just as MJ walks by. Upset, MJ runs up the stairs. Alex wants to know what happened and asks Raquel what she said. Of course, she said denies saying anything. She was just talking to her mom and MJ walked by. Nothing really. Mentirosa! Alex comforts MJ and wants to know what was said. She says it was just the truth and she has no business being there much less her dad. She wants to leave. She says his sister is ashamed of her and doesn't want them there. Did you bring him here to make a fool out of him? He grabs her by the hand and drags her downstairs. He grabs Raquel and tells her she has to apologize. We get a quick perdon and Raquel runs off and MJ goes back upstairs.

Bruno, apparently not remembering Alex's threat from the other day, barges in MJ's bedroom and catches her as she's starting to undress and says why haven't you talked to me yet? What was Alex doing snooping around? She says he didn't tell her anything. Why didn't you call me? MJ says she didn't have time. Let's go, we have to talk. She says no. He says ok we will talk here as he plants himself in a chair. Don't tell me you are in love with him. He's a thousand times better than you. We get a split screen with Alex in his room and MJ and her dad and Bruno in the other. Bruno is talking so loud that Alex can hear him through the wall. Bruno wants to know what Pedro is doing here and Pedro says as he's holding the beautiful flowers that he's picked for MJ says it is all his fault. MJ had nothing to do with it. MJ says let's talk somewhere else and Bruno manhandles her and they walk off. Just as they are exiting stage left, Alex enters stage right and wants to know where they are going. Pedro says I don't know. I don't know anything. Alex wants to know what happened and Pedro says he doesn't know. He wasn't paying attention. Alex says this was the first time you've met Bruno right? Pedro says that he hadn't had the pleasure before. Alex says he understands that Bruno is the one who gave him the 411 that he was dead. Pedro is impactado. Dun, dun, dun.


Tomorrow: Bruno acts like a jerk.

Labels: sortilegio

Emiliano proposes to Paloma, but she’s not sure, she wasn’t expecting this. He knows it’s not the best time since she’s in mourning but that’s exactly why he’s proposing, to give her an illusion, a dream. Since he met her he’s known that she’s the woman for him. He wants to take care of her, make her happy. She says she loves him and hasn’t ever needed anyone like she needs him now. But she’s afraid that the same thing will happen with him as her other loved ones, everyone dies on her, and it happens to her more than it does to other people. Emiliano puts on his statistician hat and says for that reason, the likelihood of it happening again is minimal (he also says that what happened to her parents was an accident, Inaki had a heart problem, and Macarena was in bad health, and that’s why they died, it had nothing to do with her). Paloma breaks out the anvil bait by declaring that she doesn’t want him to ever leave her life, and Emiliano adds to it by assuring her that he arrived in her life to stay. He asks again if she’ll marry him, and she answers by kissing him, “sí, sí, sí!”

Back in her room, after blowing kisses out the window to Emiliano as he gets in his car, Paloma talks to her picture of Mac--she's sure that Mac would be happy with Emil’s proposal. But Pal is sad that Mac won’t be there on her wedding day, and won’t know her kids . . . you’re never going to be with me again, mama.

Carlota storms in and demands an explanation as to what’s up with Emiliano and why was he in the house. Paloma replies, because we love each other, we’re novios.

Mientras tanto (shout out to the amazing Gancho recappers), it appears that Emiliano has only managed to drive about a block before being so overcome with joy that he has to jump out of his car in the middle of the street and yell to the world, “Paloma, I love you!” over and over (while also standing on the hood of the car).

Carlota slaps Paloma and yells how dare you, a few months ago you were going to marry Inaki, you just started going out with Aron, and now you’re that guy’s girlfriend? Paloma yells back that she wants to be happy and loving Emiliano isn’t a sin. Carlota continues with her insults, saying that Pal goes from one man to another, just like her mother did. Where are your values? Pal tells Carlota that Mac supported her relationship with Emiliano and Carlota complains that Pal’s favorite pastime is hiding things from her. Pal points out that Carlota, Queen of the Hypocrites, is hardly one to talk about values when she’s the one who separated Pal’s parents (because Carlota was in love with Pal’s father). Pal knows that everything Carlota told her before was a lie, and she tells Carlota to butt out of her and Emiliano’s relationship--I don’t care if you like it or not.

Carlota stomps back to her room and vows that Paloma is going to remain at her side whether she likes it or not.

Rufi is in Paloma’s room (to bring her the money to buy back Mac’s necklace); Pal has told her everything about E’s proposal. Rufi is sure that Mac arranged all this from heaven. Pal reminds Rufi that her wedding with Emiliano is a secret.

But apparently it only needs to be a secret from hidden from Carlota, because Emiliano has already shared the news with German (who is pleased for Emil), but asks him not to tell anyone else.

The next day at the breakfast table Ines shows Angelica the letter from her secret admirer, but she doesn’t want to find out who it is. Ines doesn’t want to be disappointed--she wonders what if it’s a joke, or maybe the guy is ugly or married and that’s why he’s sending letters in secret. Angelica thinks maybe he could be shy. In any case, it makes Ines dream and look forward to going to the dispensario, and she wants this illusion to last a long time.

At a jewelry store (or pawn shop?) we see someone buying Mac’s necklace, but all we see is his hand.

Pal talks with the mother superior about Mac--she wants to come back to school because the house feels so empty without her. MS comments that it will be very difficult to not have Mac there but thankfully Carlota is there to care for her, which, from the look on Paloma’s face, makes her feel sick. MS then returns the tuition that Paloma paid when her scholarship was taken away. Pal tells her about the necklace Mac sold to pay for the tuition, and now she can buy it back and not be in debt. Pal lets it slip that it’s the only keepsake she has of her mother’s but covers up when MS asks whether the necklace belonged to Mac or to her mother.

Looks like Emiliano has made the next stop on his Blabbing about Town world tour, because now Cristobal (Padre Juan) is congratulating him on getting together with Paloma. Emil notes that Carlota isn’t going to support them and Cris offers to talk to that demon and soften her up. I think he was sort of joking, but that seems too weird because this show doesn’t have a sense of humor. Anyhoo, Emiliano then asks Cris to keep the secret and also to preside over the ceremony.

Carlota’s shady lawyer, Rojas, says he couldn’t believe it when he found out that Mac died. He feels bad that the last time he saw Mac she was mad at him. Carlota brushes it off, saying he was just putting a stop to Mac messing in things that she had no business in, but he reminds Carlota that in a way it did pertain to Mac since Pal is her niece. Carlota thinks he’s becoming too weak. He notes that he wouldn’t feel such self-assurance if his only sister had just died, but maybe she’s used to having lots of dead people around her. Are you trying to tell me something? No, but when the papers come from Mexico City (re: changing Pal’s pretend father’s will), our working relationship is finished for good.

Rufi visits Dr. Bermudez to return the engagement ring he gave to Mac. She also informs him that Mac had suspected that something wasn’t right regarding Paloma’s inheritance and that things aren’t the way Carlota claims, and that Inaki’s mom came to deliver some papers. She recounts how Mac lost the papers and Carlota found them and burned them. She turns over the burnt remnants.

Rojas claims that when he agreed to remain silent about the will 9 years ago, he thought it was what he had to do, but now he’s not so sure, he doesn’t feel comfortable. So when the papers come, his work with her will be settled forever. Carlota glares purple daggers at him.

Dr. B examines the papers that Rufi recovered and says it seems to be a report on bank accounts and investments--could it be the contents of the will? Whatever it is, count on me, I’m going to help you and Paloma find out what’s behind all this.

At school Pal tells Liliana that she and Emil are novios, but it’s still a secret. Lili promises not to tell anyone and that Romi (who has just come back from the bathroom looking sick) will be the last one to find out. Romi shoves Lili out of her way as Lili goes back to her desk. Paloma tells Romi to see a doctor and Romi lies, that’s what Emil and his mom say too. Romi’s going to ask them to come to the appointment with her.

As they walk home, Pal tells Romi about buying back the necklace and Romi thinks it’s better to use the money for something else; besides, it’s bad luck--wasn't that the one you wore when you were going to marry Inaki? They’re outside Camila’s shop now and when Pal suggests that Romi go in, Romi tells her to forget it, she doesn’t want to talk with her mom. After she leaves, Pal takes some papers out of her bag and smiles.

Another shot of the misterioso man hands--accompanied by música de suspenso--arranging Mac’s necklace in a heart-shaped box.

Camila looks at the papers Pal gave her and says yes, the date passed, but tomorrow I will pick it up. Pal then gives her an envelope with the money to buy the necklace, explains how they gave her the scholarship back, etc. Camila offers to be there for Pal if she needs a mother’s advice or just wants to talk with someone. Pal comments how strange life is--I wanted to have my mother, but I don’t have her; and you want your daughter, but you can’t have her. They hug and cry.

My captions have disappeared again--maybe I should go over to Gancho and see if they went over there. German and Romina run into each other and argue a bit but I couldn’t understand much of what they said. I think basically she said she’s going to get back with Emil very soon but German doesn’t think so, telling her that he (German) continues to be her best option.

Aron has come to the house of horrors with flowers and Carlota tells him he’s welcome there and she’d like him to come more often. My niece needs you--don't leave her alone . . . get what I’m sayin’? Pal arrives home and Carlota announces that Aron is going to have dinner with them.

Romina gets dizzy while packing her suitcase and has to run to the bathroom.

Paloma comes into the kitchen and Carlota scolds her for leaving Aron alone at the table. After Carlota leaves, Pal gripes to Rufi that Carlota probably invited Aron because she told her that she loves Emil. Then she gives Rufi the money she borrowed earlier. Rufi asks Pal not to tell Carlota about Carmen being in Real del Monte and visiting them. Pal wants to know why, so Rufi makes up a story about forgetting to tell Carlota about Carmen’s visit and C yelling at her for being distracted all the time, so Pal agrees to keep quiet.

Dr. Bermudez drops in on Rojas to talk about Macarena . . . dun dun DUN!!

Pal mopes at the dinner table while Carlota and Aron chit-chat. Thankfully he takes his leave. Pal doesn’t like that Carlota invited him and C replies that she’s so ungrateful, she only wanted Pal to have some time with her friends, that they have some distraction. You’re not the only one who lost a loved one, and unlike you I don’t have anyone to replace her. Crocodile Carlota leaves the table while pretending to cry.

Dr. B tells Rojas that before dying, Mac asked him to take care of the will Javier left for Paloma, but Rojas responds that the doc can’t intervene here. Dr. B counters that he and Mac were going to marry, and he has info that if true could hurt Rojas. Rojas then asks, Are you threatening me? (another great telenovela line, along with old favorites like “no puede ser” and “que haces aqui?”) No, of course not . . . I only come to tell you to that I’m going to [Anvil Alert!] take it to the limit to find out the truth. Dr. B wants to prove what Javier’s last wishes were and for them to be carried out.

Rafael comes to Camila’s to give her Mac’s necklace, he bought it for her. She explains how Paloma gave her money to buy it back but he tells her to give both the necklace and the money back to Pal if she wants. Anyway, maybe it’s better if you don’t have anything from me--Rafa goes on to explain his decision about not seeing her anymore. He never imagined falling in love again, but she deserves more than what he can give. He’s hurting her, and he doesn’t want to. “I’m going to leave your life, you don’t have to decide between me and Orlando, I’ll have to accept that I lost you, this will be the last time that we see each other,” etc. She gets all weepy and interrupts him by giving him a big ‘ol kiss, and who should walk in on this scene but Romina.

Rufi and Dr. B talk in his car about how he’s sure that Rojas is hiding something. Rufi wonders if Carlota is behind it all and Dr. B replies that Rojas couldn’t be acting alone. But what could be in those papers from Carmen? Dr. B tells Rufi to get Carmen’s contact info, but be discreet about it with both Pal and Carlota.

Rojas calls Carlota--he needs to talk with her but can’t discuss it over the phone. She agrees to meet him at his office the next morning, before he leaves Real del Monte to attend to some business matters.

Emiliano brings what looks like a box of chocolates to Paloma. He asks about the flowers and gets annoyed upon learning they’re from Aron. Pal says Aron’s just a friend and informs him that Carlota knows they’re novios but is unhappy about it. Emiliano wants to tell C right away that they’re getting married, so Pal goes upstairs to get her.

Romina, Queen-of-the-Hypocrites-in-Training, no lo puede creer--you and Emil’s dad kissing??!! The Horror!!! Rafael tries to put the blame on himself but Camila shoos him away. Camila swears that she’s not Rafa’s lover but Romi doesn’t believe her and is convinced that she is “the other woman”, that’s why Rafa is leaving Diana. Now I know why my father left you, because you’re a slut. Camila smacks her across the face.

Previews: Pal tells Carlota she and Emiliano want to marry, Romina overhears Emiliano talking to German about marrying Pal.

Labels: amor

Wow, well I'm posting a slot for you all to comment on behalf of our captain who has traveled south of the border today and will no doubt return with some wonderful tales for us. We wish her the best, I know she would have done this terrific episode justice.

I, on the otherhand, am merely giving you a condensed version. In fact my DVR gave me a condensed version. My reception was apparently awful tonight (I was out) and I came back to much macroblocking and an hour episode condensed into 36 minutes because of signal issues and missing spots.

So what I gleaned briefly, is that in a one two punch, the monkey outdoes the Barbie and we have ourselves a new peso gallo campiona, La Mona!!! Ma's encouragement inspired her of course. Mau is proud she is his novia. Beto is sour about that.

Everyone goes back to the vecinidad for celebration, including Ma, whom Mona begs to stay.

At said celebration, Katia can't resist calling Estre a golfa and she hauls off and smacks her. Tano and Aldo separate them, Estre goes to her room and tells Tano to leave until the anger fades from her a little. Yeah, what's up with slapping a minor.

OK, so the best part is at some point Coni shows up to the party claiming to be rescuing her sister, and well she ends up with Beto in his newly acquired bachelor pad. They start to get busy, maybe in too much of a hurry and, DOH!!!!!! Beto catches his you know what in his pants zipper. Yeow!!!! I don't have one of those and that hurts me to just think about!!

Coni tries to free him, somehow Xime tries to help and Ma sees them both with their heads "just there" and thinks the worst. Turns out after everyone leaves, he later has to go to the hospital for some "extraction."


OK, so Isabel doesn't feel well and the ladies think she should call a doc, but she doesn't want Mona to know she's sick and says they must keep the secret. Mona of course overhears this part and wonders what is secret. They feign that Ma is trying to rent a room in the building, but maybe none are available so they are waiting. Mona says hers is, and Ma will stay with her. They have what loks like a great night of pillow talk and bonding between Ma and Hija, and ma genuineinly looks to admire Mona who is surrounded by love instead of alone like she has been all the years. We didn't see any creepy smile this time, so maybe she's really feeling it. They bond and end up sleeping in the same bed. Remember this is not uncommon to share this way. Later Isabel can hide her dizzy spells no more and she collapses in the courtyard. In fact we end with Mona wondering que the heck and the others thinking they should tell Mona the truth. But more fun stuff happens on other fronts before that.

OK, remember Estrella was sulking at home after her fight with Katia, well, she shows up the next day at Mau's looking for Aldo. He is surprised to see her and wonders what she is there for. She answers this, and smacks a big one on him. Hurray for love!!! The gist of this is that she wonders if he still wants her to be the first in his life and he assures her of course. They decide his Dad's house is not cool and too many metiches will be sticking their noses in at the vecinidad, so we see them edge up to a sort of seedy hotel. I don't think we see anything beyond that except that Coni saw them making out in front of Mau's house and I think follows them in her car. Oh and she takes pics of them kissing in front.

There is a burning of the Rolu look spoiled wedding dress and everyone roast marshmallows (well, not really, but kind of as they all take in the flames). Oh and I discovered that a virgin male had to burn it to reverse the bad luck, so that's why Aldo set it on fire. Xime thought she was out of luck when she first heard that, but things have a way of working out. :)

Isabel warns Nieves to watch out for the momia and Beto. I think there was no Sal and Gabi or that camp in this one.

In the end Mona learns her Ma is dying and she is the only one who can help save her.

I don't know, those are the big things. Feel free to add as you see fit in the comments and I can always copy over here too. Despite my signal issues, thsi seemed like a great episode, so maybe I'll find and can watch the whole thing.

Thanks all!!

Labels: gancho

Or, is it just me?

Alejandro Y María José are soooo good together ... Let me see if I can recap.

We start with Bruto threatening MJ with Jail again, and she better not take him
for a fool. Bruto shoves before he walks out. MJ, is holding her faces cries,
asking God to help her.

Next day, we are not at some kind of Art festival where Fernando finds Victoria
talking with some old guy about art. The old guy says that the way the economy is
at the moment, that Art is a good investment right now.

MJ tells Paula that Bruto gave her the bruise on her face.

Victoria and Fernando are back at home having coffee, talking about how Alejandro is
sure that he never married MJ and how he is going to investigate.
Fernando tells her that her father is poor. Maria says that would explain it, but
she doesn't think MJ is a bad person... Fernando tries to calm her saying that
maybe Alejandro doesn't remember. Victoria and Fernando hold hands.

Paula thinks MJ should have Alejandro’s baby. That would solve everything.
MJ recognizes that she is attracted to the guapo, sexy, Alejandro, but feels
guilty for deceiving him.

The doctor tells Alejandro he is fine. They could do neuro tests for his memory.
Ale says no and leaves.

Alejandro then calls Fernando who is still chatting with Victoria, and has him
meet him at the office where they talk about the deception. Alejandro decides he
wants to talk to MJ’s Papa so he cancels all his stuff and makes plans for Cancun…
NOT. At least I don’t think MJ is from Cancun.

Roberto and Paula have a chat that I did not pay too much attention to. He doesn't work and I think he wants to play with Paula?

Victoria, again asks Bruno about work and of course he tells her he is still on
vacation, Well, why isn't he in Disneyland already?

Bruto goes to MJ's door and he finds that MJ must have read the comments on CARAY and has locked her door.

MJ flees, through the balcony where she runs into Alejandro.

I think she probably was relieved, but now MJ is worried because no one has told
papa that Alejandro is alive.

MJ tries to have Paula call Papa, but, Alejandro hears part of this conversation
and asks for Papa’s number and he calls and tells Papa he is alive and they are
coming to visit.

Alejandro has Paula come along for the ride.

MJ and Paula pack and Paula is arguing the same argument, MJ is as stubborn as a
mule.

Roberto tells Bruto that MJ has gone to Cancun with Alejandro.

Roberto and Rachel have a conversation that I missed.

In the car, Alejandro tells MJ they will be staying at a hotel so as not to bother
her father, and after all, they are married.

Alejandro asks Paula if she has a boyfriend and would she be interested in Bruno.
Paula does not like Bruno.

They come to Papa's house where MJ islooking everywhere for Papa.

Alejandro comes across the picture of himself and MJ on the mantel and he kind of looks shocked.

Alejandro asks MJ where it was taken and she doesn’t remember. Are there any others?
MJ says no.

MJ finds Papa and tell him that Alejandro has no memory, so Papa gladly introduces
himself. I think he is of like mind as Paula.

Meanwhile Bruto is brewing about Cancun with Erick.

Then Victoria comes in and Bruno lets out all his frustrations on his Mama. Life
is not fair and it is Victoria’s fault that her husband died leaving them with
nothing. Or something like that.


Victoria runs off and cries.
Children “DON”T MAKE YOUR MAMA’S CRY!”

Back at Papa’s house Alejandro excuses himself and tells MJ he will be back later
and for her to have a nice visit.

Alejandro, or Sherlock is asking everyone on the street if they knew Alejandro.
Finally, he comes finds someone who knew where he lived who describe Ale as young,
with black hair.
Alejandro calls the number on the for rent sign and meets with the owner who did
not actually know Alejandro, but describes him as young with black hair.
Alejandro would like to see the contract, but no, it is private.

Papa, MJ and Paula are having the same discussion. Papa says if it was just him
he would go to jail, but that his daughters are young and can’t go to jail.

Alejandro returns to Papa’s to get MJ. Papa asks him in but Ale declines saying
they are going to retire, but wants to extend an invitation to Papa to have
breakfast with them at the hotel. Papa is really excited about that.

MJ tells Ale she would rather sleep at Papa’s but that didn’t happen because now
they are in the hotel room.

MJ says that people like him are refined and elegant and her Papa is …. Alejandro
finishes her sentence “a good man.”

There are at least 2 dozen red long stemmed roses on the table. Ale ask MJ if
she likes them.

Ale asks MJ if he has told her how beautiful she looks today. He caresses her face
and kisses her cheek.

Alejandro backs off and tells her to relax. They have two rooms. MJ, is happy
about that, and her smile comes back.

Knock on the Hotel door, it is dinner for two.

Paula is telling papa to convince MJ to go for it.

MJ and Alejandro are having cake for dessert as they talk. Alejandro feeds MJ a
cake. They sure look like they are having a nice time. They have another sip
of wine, and then comes the kisses, oh my, they kiss good together.

They lie down, kissing and Alejandro is unbuttoning her top. Ale wants her to let him love or sleep with her.

MJ protests as she is returning his kisses……

Our Galan. Seductive, sexy, smart, naughty, sensible, shrewd… what else?

Here is a slide show of the construction of the Sortilegio casa.
http://www2.esmas.com/entretenimiento/telenovelas/sortilegio/fotos/construccion-ca
sa-sortilegio/13138

That is it for tonight.

I have had a really hectic week so far and I am traveling Thursday thru Sunday. I
won't be able to check back in until Monday.

Have a great week!

Labels: sortilegio

We’ll open with a cute Dani pic since I love her expressions so much, but you saw this all yesterday. The new biz starts with Mona being approached by her Ma. You could safely say Mona ripped her a new one, how dare she show up after all she did to her, the only thing she knows about the word daughter is how to write it, blah blah. Ok, she leaves.

Lore Loca walks up to Gabi who is leaving to get ready for a romantic dinner. Lore thinks it’s with her husband. Gabi says no way and stop blaming your failing marriage on me. She tells Lore she has to do something to spice it up, like trap him in a hotel room or something. Loreloca likes this idea but fears her conservative hubby won’t go for it. They havn’t moved out of missionary position in all these years. Gabi is sad for her and says then she needs to trick him. Gabi gives Lore an idea to fake that someone is meeting him for negocios but to turn it into a hot tryst. Lore can get behind that (ha) and declares that Gabi is maybe not so bad after all. Gabi says of herself, of course she’s charming, and wishes her luck.


Mona goes after her Ma. This delights Ma, who makes an eerie smile but she turns around repentive to Mona who wants to get a bunch of crap off her chest.


Ma continues with the forgive mes and I don’t deserves. Mo says she had to force herself not to forget Ma’s face because she was afraid they might pass each other in the street and she might not recognize her own Ma. Blah blah and Mona goes back in. Ma smiles again then corrects herself and carries on. I guess we are supposed to hate her.



Loreloca is chatting with Sal and tells him the client he’s been trying to reach all week called him and wants to meet him in the Hotel del Rincon del San Angel to listen to his job proposals. Sal thinks that’s great until he realizes the time is the same as that when Gabi will be waiting for him.


Jero tells Sal, Mau has to get to Merida very quickly. Sal thinks Jero should work and talks Jero into meeting the business guy Mandiola at 9 despite Jero first thinking Sal meant for him to go to Merida and began protesting.

Jero goes out and tells this to Oscar, who offers to go in his place. Oh this will be fun.

So Oscar is there and a bell boy brings him a key and a mask that he is supposed to put on and go up to a room where Mandiola is waiting with some chicas. Oski “understands” and proclaims how much he loves “business dinners” !! Sheesh, of course.



So Gabi is set up for dinner and opens the door to find Sal with champagne. She tries to tell him something, but he pops the cork and spills it everywhere.


She worries he’ll liquor her up and he says yes, but with his kisses. She admits she looooves him, but there is this little matter of your loca wife and me being “the other woman.”


Mona tells her gals the story of her Mafrontation. She thought she would feel better after yelling at her Ma, but of course doesn’t. Pau and Estre fight over advising her. Despite Moni wanting them to stop, Estre says it helps distract Mona. They leave.

In enters Beto offering her some chicken stew, more specifically stew of a “broody hen” oh now that sweetens it for me, and he jokes about how hard it was to get her into the pot, but she is not in the mood for jokes. She cries as he leaves eating the stew.

Oski enters the room and immediately get whipped. He is told to not say a word, lay down in the bed and that this is the end of the missionary position forever. He’s her slave.



Mientras tanto, Sal and Gabi are having a romantic dinner. They talk about her and Oski, and thank Pau for hearing wrong. He promises he wants to divorce. Afterall, Lore is getting better. Hmm, she doesn’t recognize her own husband only with a blindfold on, not sure if she’s better. Anyway, one thing leads to the next and Sal and Gabi proclaim their love to each other and proceed to make out. And, fuego en la mesa. The tablecloth gets yanked and the candle falls starting the cloth on fire and they mill about trying to figure out where there is water to put it out.

Oski and Lore are relaxing post tryst until the lights come on and the masks come off. AAAhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!! I think we see his uvula. :)




The stew returns this time with Nieves who swears she made it not Beto so don’t be afraid to eat it. Mona says she wants to be alone. She thanks Nieves for taking care of her, and doing all the Mom things like explaining when her body was changing. Nieves laughs at how Moni thought she was cut by something when she passed into womanhood. Nieves sticks up for her Ma saying she feels guilt and has lived hell since she left Mona and Mona should really forgive her, once can‘t buy life and maybe she‘ll regret it someday. Mona isn’t sure. Nieves forces herself to tell Mona maybe she came back so Mona would have more of her than the memory that she abandoned her.


The stew has now changed hands and Mau offers it to her. He gets her to eat it and says he doesn’t want to see her get hit but ends up promising her he’ll beat her fight.

Dias despues and we are in the ring for the national rooster weight championship. Mona and Mariana La Barbie Juarez are announced with their weights and fight history.

Everyone cheers her, except Mau who is not there. Beto tells his Ma Coni will make sure dollhead doesn’t come. Ma tells B that he needs to let Mona go because Mau really cares for her. Beto of course says she’s hurting him and leaves. I love the monita t-shirts and the poor monkey who shifts nervously from all the crowd hoopla.


Oh for Pete’s sake, all she comes up with is slashing tires? Sheesh.



They announce the famous Jose Guadalupe Garcia willl be refing the bout.

The fight begins and Mona looks around nervously for Mau. Mona gets dropped but gets up in time.

Mau gets final things in order and rushes off only to find his tires flat. Coni to the rescue agrees to drive him. The fight continues and Moni gets in a good jab.

Of course Coni has taken Mau right into a horrible traffic jam but believes this was the better way. He gets fed up and gets out of the car. She protests.

Of course more worrying about the prince not having arrived yet. Estre gives her a pep talk.

La loquita shows up again to arrange Xime and Rolu’s wedding.

The happiness is interrupted when dingleberry Jero parades Rolu in while Xime is in her wedding dress. She runs off to kill herself because they will have a failed marriage since the groom has seen her before the wedding.



Rolu likes the sound of that and his eyes tell us.



Back at the ring we see slo mos of the fight so that each can get their punches in without really hurting themselves. Finally Mau arrives and cheers for Mona as she gets slogged and falls.

But he’s not the icing on the cake. Isabel appears screaming at her daughter to get up and a cara impactada is all we see until manana.

Labels: gancho

Emiliano talks to Angelica about his feelings for Paloma. He tells her that he loved her from the first moment they met. Although he didn't know it at first. He can't imagine his life without her.

Liliana runs into German at the cafe. He compliments her and says how he has always liked her. Are you still with your boyfriend? Liliana tells him that her boyfriend is waiting outside for her. German says that her boyfriend doesn't make her feel the same way he did. Liliana disses him and pretty much says her new boyfriend is better then him. She also gets onto him for allowing Emiliano to stay at his house where he slept with Romina. She tells him to come clean with Emiliano.

Orlando and Angelica are going over the day's events in his office. He tells her he doesn't know what to do if she leaves. She says perhaps I don't have too. He gets excited and says "Really"? No replies Angelica. I have to go to Mexico City and publish my book. She asks if she can leave early to out to dinner with Joel. Sure responds Orlando. Where are you going? She tells him the restaurant that Joel is taking her and he says that he heard that place is great. He has always wanted to try it out. Angelica says perhaps one day they can both go together. Okay replies Orlando. Then thinks about it and asks why don't the 4 of them go together tonight? Angelica loses her smile, but agrees to it.

Samuel goes back to his friend's apartment to get the rest of his things. His friend tells him that Camila and his daughter were both there looking for him. What!? How? asks Samuel. A private detective was hired responds his friend. Samuel is excited and thinks that it means they want him to be a part of their lives. He thinks the the letters he sent Camila woke up her desires for him again. His friend tells him not to get all worked up. That was not the impression that Camila gave him. More like she wanted to protect her daughter. She didn't come alone, but with her boyfriend. Samuel doesn't believe him.

Orlando tries to talk Camila into going out to dinner tonight with Angelica and Joel. He just wants to make her happy.

Joel is excited about his date tonight with Angelica. Rafael reiterates to Joel that he is breaking off pursuing Camila since Diana doesn't want to give him a divorce. Joel asks if he knows a secret that will make Diana give him the divorce. No replies Rafael. Even if I did, I would not do that. I want to break things off in the most pleasant way.

Paloma tells Rufi that she is going to the cemetery.

Diana visits Romina in her room and suggests they watch a movie. Romina complains that she is feeling sick and believes it's all because of Paloma.

Paloma is visiting Macarena and asks her "Why did you leave, mom?" I am so angry with you for dying. Cristobal comes to visit Macarena and Paloma wants to know why he's there bringing her flowers. He tells her that Macarena's death effected him greatly. She asks him why Macarena wanted to see him when she was dying? Because we have known each other for years replies Cristobal. Before I became a priest. It must have given her comfort to have me there. Is that why she asked you to watch over me asks Paloma. I'm sure responds Cristobal. I was a man she had great confidence in and now I'm a priest.

Rufi and Carlota are packing up Macarena's things. Carlota cannot believe that Cristobal didn't show up at Macarena's funeral services or burial. Rufi says that he was very affected by her death. Carlota replies that they all were. And as a priest he should know how to handle it better. She wonders why he hasn't been giving mass lately. Ask him next time you see him. Perhaps he is no longer interested in being a priest. Rufi asks how can she say that? What makes her think that it can be true? I don't know replies Carlota. Just that he claimed Macarena was the love of his life and can't even officiate the funeral service. He just hides. What a weird guy.

Cristobal tells Paloma that she will eventually accept the death of her aunt with time. He is convinced that she is in heaven. Paloma tells him that she will never understand why God took Macarena away from her. Or all the people that she has loved. Death is part of life replies Cristobal. We are all going to die at one point. Yes, but after have lived life first responds Paloma. My parents, Inaki and Macarena. They still had a lot to live. God is mad at me and now I want nothing to do with him, the church or you. Cristobal tells her that he understands her anger, but not to doubt God or his great love for you. If he loved me so much, he would never have let me suffer so replies Paloma. Cristobal tells her to think of it as they have completed their mission and have moved on to a better life. Then I don't understand my mission in this life responds Paloma. Is it to suffer? Be an orphan? Witness the man I was going to marry die? Is that what God wants for me? Doesn't that appear to be too cruel? Cristobal says you may not believe me, but I understand how you feel. I have lived through all of that too. Twice I have lost the most important person in my life. The first time I was not a priest. I lost my zest for life that I wanted to die. That's how I feel replies Paloma. Too die. Cristobal says if God has not brought you to his side, it's because there is something left for you to do. And I'm telling you from personal experience. That is why I am asking you not to turn your back to God, the church or me. Don't take it personally replies Paloma. It's just who you represent. Just take your time says Cristobal. You have a lot of pain that you need to go through and sort out. Then we'll talk again. Paloma doesn't believe that she'll change her mind. She doesn't want to talk about it again.

Natalia comes back from vacation with her Alonzo and their daughter. He tells her he's going to the office. She gets upset and says she doesn't understand him. The whole time they were on vacation he was upset. She and Sagario spent most of the time alone. Things cannot keep going on like this. Ever since Inaki's death you have been closed off and I don't know what to do. If you want to drown in your sorrow fine. But I am not going to let you take me and Sagario with you.

Carlota is upset and wonders where those papers are. Tomorrow they will look at the rest of the house she tells Rufi. Paloma comes in and wonders what's going on. Carlota explains that they had to clear out her mother's room. It just couldn't stay that way. But she can look in the box and take what she wants. Carlota asks her where was she and Paloma replies at the cemetery. Carlota tells her that she doesn't like her to go there alone. If you want to pray for Macarena then go to church. I will never go back to the church yells Paloma. And don't obligate me to go there. I have my reasons. Even Padre Juan (Cristobal) tried to convince me to go back, but failed. So there is no one that can make me go back to the church. Carlota is shocked and asks if she talked to Cristobal. I mean Padre Juan? I found him at the cemetery replies Paloma. Rufi tells Paloma that Macarena wouldn't want her to turn her back on God or Padre Juan. But she's not here anymore replies Paloma. Carlota tells Paloma that she understands her anger even if she doesn't agree with it. But she will respect her feelings. She tells Rufi to take the boxes downstairs and they will resume looking for the papers tomorrow. Papers? asks Paloma. Yes, some papers your mom was going to give me replies Carlota. Paloma walks out of the room and finds the papers. She gives them to Carlota who opens it and is visibly disturbed by it's content. What is it, asks Paloma. Carlota tells her it's regarding some analysis about Macarena's diabetes.

Cristobal goes to Emiliano and hopes that he can help Paloma. He doesn't want her to turn her back to God and the church. Emiliano promises to help her not lose faith in God. Emiliano tells Cristobal about Macarena's visit the day before she died. She had commented to him that the relationship between Paloma and him reminded her of a love that she had when she was younger. She also said to be careful of Romina. Because a woman obsessed could wreck havoc. Yes that is true replies Cristobal. Make sure that no one comes puts obstacles in your path of love. Don't let anyone separate you from each other. Orlando comes in and interrupts.

Carlota reads the papers that Inaki's investigators drew up and wonders how they obtained the information. She recalls a conversation that she had with Alonzo (Inaki's father) saying how Inaki found out that Paloma's parents had left her money. She wonders how the papers fell into Macarena's hands and is glad that her death came in the nick of time. If she had read these papers, it would have been the end of her. She lights a match and burns the papers. Rufi witnesses the papers being burned and wonder if they are the same papers as Carmen gave Macarena.

Paloma is in her mom's empty room lying with her box of memories.

Carlota questions Rufi if anyone visited Macarena days before her death. Rufi lies and says that she does not remember anyone.

Orlando and Cristobal are walking and he thanks Orlando for his advice. He talks about Paloma and her anger. Orlando suggests that if Cristobal tells Paloma of his history with Macarena he can probably help her more. Cristobal says perhaps. Macarena wanted to tell her about us. She was going to have Paloma leave Real de Monte with us. Cristobal doesn't want to tell Paloma about it though.

Rufi takes the burned papers out of the trash can and puts them into a plastic bag.

Rufi brings Paloma water and notices that Paloma stayed with her mother's memory box. Paloma comments that the most valuable thing she had was the pearl necklace and she's going to get it back. Rufi tells her the most valuable thing Macarena had was you. Paloma wants to buy back the necklace and Rufi offers to give her the money. Paloma asks if the necklace was given to Macarena from her father? Even though you don't want to answer I know it is so. Rufi goes to leave to make dinner and Paloma stops her. She tells her that she met up with Rodolfo and he offered to pay for her housing and schooling. Rufi says he is a good man and thinks to herself that he can help her find out about the papers Carmen brought.

Inez gets a visit from her secret admirer. He drops a letter on the floor without Inez noticing and says look a letter on the floor. Inez reads it and realizes it's from her secret admirer. He tells her that he knows she's going through a difficult time with the loss of her friend. Don't forget to smile because it makes you look more beautiful.

Orlando, Camila, Joel and Angelica are out to dinner.

Rafael is home alone drinking and thinking about the day things changed between him and Camila. And various other encounters. He starts to cry.

Diana tells Romina to go to her house tomorrow for the rest of her things. She wants her future daughter-in-law to stay with her. Romina agrees as long as she pays some rent. Okay agrees Diana. As long as Emiliano does not find out.

The dinner group are talking about Angelica's book. Camila has to go on a bathroom break. Orlando walks with her and wonders if she's okay. She tells him that all she thinks about right now is Macarena and Romina. Orlando says he understands about Macarena, but not Romina. She should get use to not having Romina around. He doesn't think that she will be coming back. Really asks Camila. Kids today are more independent and she is old enough to live on her own. Camila gets offended and says that Romina is not ready for that. If she wanted to spread her wings then she would understand. But instead she wants to hurt her. And that is wrong.

Romina calls Aron and says that without a doubt Emiliano and Paloma are an item. Aron says that they will make sure that they are not together long. Romina wants to start now.

Orlando returns to the table and Joel leaves for a bathroom break. Angelica asks Orlando what's wrong. He says that Romina will always be between Camila and I. Camila is constantly thinking about Romina and says that she is her number one priority. Angelica tells him that all moms think that way. Either quit competing with your girlfriend's child or find a woman without kids.

Emiliano visits Paloma. She tells him that they have to be careful. Carlota was asking her this morning about them. Emiliano doesn't want to hide anymore. Paloma says for right now that is how it has to be. I need you now more then ever. This house is not the same without my mother. I miss her so much. I have never gotten along with Carlota. I respected her, but out of fear. And now I have lost all confidence in her. Emiliano tells her that she has to have confidence in the people that she loves. She says I only have confidence in you. Last night I had a dream that I left with you. And if we made that dream true asks Emiliano. I have been thinking of ways to make you smile and now I know. What replies Paloma. Let me talk to your aunt says Emiliano. Let me tell her about us. Not yet replies Paloma. I just want you to leave with house, this story. And make one of our own. Let's get married. Let's start a new life as man and wife. What do you say?

Manana: Paloma says yes to Emiliano's proposal; Paloma accuses Carlota of separating her mom and her dad; Paloma gets bitch slapped by Carlota.

Labels: amor

Hey folks,

I just realized that:

1) We didn't have a topic for people to discuss the MEPS cast on the Cristina show, and

2) I missed part 2 this week in addition to part 1 last week.

So I didn't see any of it and have no comments, but if anyone does, now you have a place to post them.

Labels: manana

In yesterday’s dismal installment, dim bulb Paloma lacked the mental acuity to 1. Remember that Auntie Maim is evil and hates her, 2. Realize that letting the doctors use the paddles might be a better way to revive Mac than jumping on her and shaking her shattered head, 3. Keep evil auntie from suspecting her relationship with Emiliano. Thus, Mac went off to the sweet shop in the sky, and Emo had better watch his back.

Cristóbal confides to Orlando he and Mac had planned to marry. Orlando, always a source of solace, says too bad, so sad. Life screwed him over (jugar chueca = to play dirty), so now he’ll just go back to being a priest; that’s that. Padre Almostnotawaste doesn’t know whether he can.

Rafael and Joel are in their office, as they were barely acquainted with Mac. Poor Joel, always unlucky in love, was supposed to have a date with Angélica but it was cancelled because she wanted to be with Camila and Paloma. Rafael wishes he could be with Camila to comfort her.

Over at the funeral, a respectable number of people are dressed in black and sobbing. Liliana, Eric, and Germán even slip in just as the service begins. Romina thinks that during the prayer is a good time to edge through the crowd, have a little chat with Aaron, and escape with him for more evile strategery.

Over at the house o’ sleezy lawyerin’, Licenciado Rosas is informed by his secretary that Mac has died. Rosas is impactado. The secretary, who needs a bigger role and a better boss, thinks it’s very strange Mac could have fallen in such a way; it’s more likely that she was pushed.

Romina and Aaron puzzle and stew in a cafeteria. They figure Paloma and Emo must have a little something going on. But how? Our dastardly duo needs a plan to split them up. Fortunately, they are not very good at scheming, and Emoo is good at avoiding Romina and not falling for her whining. Romina thinks she can use the fact that all Paloma’s loved ones die. Oh, this should be good.

The mourners are sitting around comforting Paloma. Lili gives her an angel figurine. Angélica offers anything she needs, including professional counseling. Eric and Emo sit by looking vaguely supportive while Paloma draws on her eternal spring of tears. Romina drifts back in, and Germy hassles her about leaving. They agree Paloma’s situation is salada (means salted, but also ruined, having bad luck). Germy hides his face and slides out when Camila comes around the corner, ha. Cami tells Romina this all shows them that life is short and unpredictable and they should patch up their disagreements. Romina is unmoved and just whines about hating funeral parlors and leaves.

Rodolfo walks up behind Camila and the music is so menacing I think he is going to stab her in the back. He does not. He offers a handkerchief. With chloroform?! No, the music changes, and he plays the part of the grieving widower, blubbering about how he was going to marry Mac and adopt Paloma (who is weeks shy of 18 by now, surely) and have a beautiful family life, EVEN THOUGH Mac told him pretty clearly she didn’t love him and wasn’t really into the idea of marrying him. No matter, she’s gone now and he can delude himself into believing anything he wanted would have happened, had she lived. Cami and Rodolfo comment that bad romantic luck seems to be in the air in Real del Monte.

Everyone looks ghoulish in bad light at the graveside service. Cruelota thought-bubblingly wonders where Cris is. Doesn’t he want to be here to see that hindrance who was keeping them apart put in the ground? Everyone has good memories of Macarena as they put roses on the casket, except for Carlota, who remembers the excellent time that Mac slapped her really hard. Okay, that’s a good memory for us, at least. Romina drops her rose in dramatic slow motion for some reason.

Over in the D.F., Cris is wearing non-priestly clothes and conferring with Padre Benito. PB thinks all this happened to make Cris a better person and a better priest. None of my loved ones need to die to make me a better person; I’ll accept being flawed, thanks. Just throwing that out there to the universe. Cris says he is a tormented sheep. PB tells him to meditate and come to a decision.

Days later…

Paloma is lying on Mac’s bed, reminiscing in sepia tones to the melancholy strains of “Fin de Capítulo,” as she did when Iñaki died. Cruelota tells her to quit it and get on with life. Paloma doesn’t want to do anything or see anyone. “Not even Emiliano?” asks Cruel. Carlota needles Paloma about the way Emo shows up everywhere to take care of her. Paloma just stomps out of the room. It’s a start. After she goes, Cruelota snickers to Mac that the people she loved most, Pal and Cris, were with her when she died but now they’re stuck here with Cruel, bwahahahaha. Why doesn’t Paloma ever eavesdrop?

Camila returns to work at her shop. She tells Meche she’s still pretty depressed, but she wants to move on and not leave so many things undone, like Mac did. She’s worried about her relationship with her daughter. Meche is worried about her grandson, Chava. She’d hoped he would get involved with Padre Juan’s group, but they haven’t heard from PJ in awhile; he hasn’t even been giving mass. Camila says maybe he caught the flu that Padre Mateo had.

Romina calls Aaron and his over-gelled hair to say she will go visit Emiliano under the pretext of worrying about Paloma, who still hasn’t returned to school. Aaron thinks that’s brilliant.

Meche is glad Emiliano is mentoring Chava. She and Camila both think he’s such a great guy…good thing he went away to school in Monterrey, says Meche, because if Diana had raised him, who knows how awful he would be!

Rafael calls Camila to offer condolences. Their love theme plays. Rafael wants to talk to her about something very important, and they agree to meet at her house the next day.

Cruelota reads some papers and woo-hoo!s at top volume about how great her investment of Paloma’s fortune is doing. Then she remembers Rufi’s mention of important life-changing papers. She goes to search for them. Well, to grill Rufi about them. She claims Mac was going to show them to her. Rufi just says they don’t know what happened to them. Cruel demands purply that Rufi find them. Gee, why don’t any of them ask THE ONLY OTHER PERSON IN THE HOUSE? Cruelota and I do agree that the giant birdcage should not be in the kitchen.

Cris puts his vestments back on. He’s resigned to his priestly fate.

Carlota hunts high and low, making a huge mess which she’ll probably yell at Rufi about. Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Rufi deduces that she probably shouldn’t give Cruel any information, or the envelope if she finds it. Ya think?!

Padre Six-Eyes Mateo is all frantic as usual. Cris says he’s back in black, and offers to take over mass. PM is thrilled.

Paloma is still not out of tears. Emiliano hugs and kisses her muchly on the sidewalk. Romina drives by and sees them. She is furious, and immediately calls Diana. Diana, freshly cured of her rash and having an uncommon fit of common sense, says that Emoo is not Romina’s novio and he can date whomever he pleases. Romi doesn’t like that answer and wants to go make a scene. Diana demands that she calm down and come over right away without talking to the lovebirds. Who is this woman, and what has she done with screechy-tantrum-loving Diana? Paloma and Emo continue to smooch through this entire conversation.

Cruel is still trashing the house. Neither she nor Rufi can find the papers. Cruel says she’s going to go through everything in Mac’s room and give it to the dispensario. Rufi thinks it’s too soon. Carlota is, shockingly, not sentimental. Rufi now doubts her own good sense, and demands that Mac intervene from beyond the grave: if she wants the papers given to Carlota, she should help Rufi find them, and if not, keep them well hidden.

Emiliano cheers up Paloma. “What would I do without you?” she asks. He says she’ll never have to find out. Seems a little anvilicious, seeing as how these writers have no qualms about killing off main characters and he’s walking around with a target on his back.

Diana tells Romina to be less ranty and more intelligent. Do as she says, not as she does, I suppose. Diana’s plan is for Romina to be Paloma’s bestest friend and control the situation through Jedi mind tricks. Ro says Paloma isn’t as easy to manipulate as she used to be. Diana thinks they can still work on her guilt, since everyone she loves dies. Romina declares there is no way Paloma will take Emo away from her, even if she has to sell her soul to the devil. Diana approves.

Paloma is wandering home in a daze and Rodolfo stops her to ask how she is. He invites her to come to him for anything she needs. He’s still trying to play the grieving widower and caring stepdaddy. He says he’s moving to the D.F. in a few months, and he’s willing to help her out with housing, tuition, whatever, so she can go to school.

Paloma stops at home just to tell Rufi she’s going to the cemetery. Rufi doesn’t think to ask about the envelope. I guess if anyone could remember something super important for more than five seconds, we would have a very short story.

Emiliano gets all teary telling Ange how much he loves Paloma.

Avances: Romina is up to no good. Paloma and Cris meet up at Mac’s grave.

Labels: amor

Alejandro is pretty roughly questioning Maria Jose about her relationship with Bruno. The man himself shows up and tells Alex to quit mistreating the goods. He's doing a good job of making himself look good and make Alex look like a complete ass. Alex says as long as she's got his last name, he owns her. Nice going, caveman. MaryJo gets between them and says she's had it with them both, she's not anyone's property and she's getting the hell out of there. "And don't try to stop me," she says to Alex. Well, there's one for the drinking game--drink every time MaryJo says she's leaving; and twice every time someone talks her out of it. After she leaves, Bruno tells Alex to leave her alone, that it's not very manly to keep a woman who doesn't want you. But Alex is going to see if that's really true. They have the whole conversation at almost-kissing range.

MaryJo is frantically packing as Alex comes in (without knocking!) and says he's not going to let her leave. MaryJo says it makes no sense for her to stay if she's a complete stranger to him. She's already told him she made a mistake, she doesn't love him, so why won't he give her a divorce, already? He wants to find out why he married her. She resents the idea that she should stick around so he can study her. "If I'm not an object, I'm certainly not a slave, and you can't keep me from leaving here whenever I want to!" He dares her to try leaving and says she'll never make it past the garden gate. Then he leaves. MaryJo takes a bunch of deep breaths and tries to stop crying.

Read more »

Labels: sortilegio

Yes, there were mood swings galore tonight. But it's like that every night on Gancho. My lead should really be the great question: ¿Eres o te haces? (Loosely translated," Are you naturally idiotic or do you work at it?")

That is just a gem. Nieves lets go with this one when she confronts Beto about his silly suspicions of her. So keep that question in the back of your mind while we gallop through the events of tonight's episode. Sure, it applied to Beto, the longest breast-feeding hijo in the universe. But it could also apply to Ximena, Paula, Mauricio, Monita, Nieves herself, Oscar, Jeronimo. "¿Eres o te haces?" Heck, it could even apply to most of us.

Leaving those philosophical musings aside, let's backtrack. First, there's a little beso interruptus between Luisa and Ivan. Aldo storms up and says Don't touch my siser, imbecil. While back at home, Mauricio actually seems to prefer the thought of Ivan being with Aldo, Katja and Luisa at the movies because he can "protect" them. Teresa is flummoxed but wisely holds her ground and her tongue.

And included in the rehash is poor Rolu who can't hold his tongue or do much of anything with it. Condemned to just sitting there in a full-body cast, he's holding a sign asking Ximena to marry him (thanks to Jeronimo). Ximena's only momentarily entranced. She quickly launches into Three Things: she's not going to fall for that cheap joke, she knows he can't write in that cast, and something else I didn't get but who cares? The picture really gets murky when Ximensa can't remember if one blink means "yes" or "no". And our desperate Rolu launches into multiple frantic blinks which can only mean one thing: He's dying to marry her!

And frantic is the word for Beto and Monita who have discovered that Nieves is missing. No time to take those generic drugs sonny boy picked up, she headed out on a bus to find Isabel. Beto and Valentina storm down to the police station to report her missing. Christian informs them a woman answering Nieves' description has been exposing herself in public. Beto wonders if Mom's been taking hussy pills (pastillas de coscolinas) and is so relieved when the woman turns out to be someone else, he plants a solid kiss on the unknown hussy's lips. But wait! there's more. If that's not the one, the police have found one malodorous shoe (Beto sniffs it and identifies the stench as his madre) and Monita confirms the size. No problem. Now they're looking for the rest of the body. For some reason, this does not reassure our worried pair. But at least now we know the provenance of Beto's overwhelming aroma--it's in the genes.

Now that this burning question has been answered, we can focus on the continuing saga of Monita's elusive mother. Nieves contacts Mauricio for help on deciding whether or not to tell Monita about her mother. She thinks of Mauricio as "culto, viajado e intelligente" (educated, well-traveled, intelligent...that last is a stretch) and wants his advice. Of course she's also there to make sure Mauricio is not just using Valentina for a pastime and he seems to convince her. Now what to do about that "mala entraña" (heartless, callous) mother. Even though Isabel's dying, she doesn't want to face up to her daughter. What should Nieves do?

Back at the barrio, Val and Beto (and Estrella not so much) are still fretting about Nieves when lo! she appears. "Mala hierba nunca muere" quips our Star. Beto's overjoyed because he's hungry and missed the aroma of her stews and" milaneses con papas". Paula somehow thinks this is an opportunity to gossip about Gabriela but no one wants to hear. So then let's dish about Monita's hunky boyfriend. Nope, she's not on board with that either. They're feuding again. Paula makes another stab at discussing infidelity and Gaby and relationships and what have you but no dice. Eres o te haces?

And the group still hasn't established where Nieves was all this time. Well, er, she was at a funeral? All this time? NO WAY. Well, then be happy she's "vivito and coleando" (alive and kicking). Yeah, kicking it up with whom, snarls Beto. Well, no matter, he'll forive her if she'll make those yummy enchiladas for him. Poor woman, barely out of the hospital, exhausted from a five hour going and coming bus trip, emotional confrontation with both Isabel and Mauricio., now relegated to the kitchen. Makes you want to swear off motherhood, doesn't it?

Suddenly we're flipped back to the movie theatre where Aldo and Ivan are mending fences. Aldo is speaking wistfully of lovers from two different worlds having to give up a relationship and Katja assumes he's speaking about her. She'll find out differently later. In the meantime, Aldo reminds Ivan that even if he and Luisa are novios, another kiss like that and he'll break his face and a few teeth besides. Okay then. Setting boundaries.

Monita's curled up in bed trying to relax. Pounding at the door. Go away! Whoops, it's Mauricio. He came to see how she was. Did he do wrong? He's bothered by her boxing. He doesn't like the idea of her being hit. He wants to protect her.

Monita sets him straight. His mistrust hurts her a lot more than any punch could do. She accepts his three kids. They're a family. Why can't he accept her "family" of Beto and Nieves. I will never abandon them like my mother did me! Mauricio looks suitably glum, does a little Latino stonewalling number (or should we call this a well-practiced male pout and sulk, Carlos?)
and leaves.

Now at the gymnasium, Monita pounds the punching bag while reminiscing about her fruitless searches for her mother. And Mauricio? Well, he did more than sulk. He went to find Isabel himself. The lady, quite cool and collected, informs him that she knew he'd come. And like Nieves, she wants to know if indeed, he really loves Monita and would do anything for her. He does and he would. And he thinks the two should get together. She disagrees. She's not looking for "me", she doesn't know the type of monster I am. He assures her that Monita would forgive anything. Well, you're a businessman so I'm going to make you an offer you can't refuse. And on that cliffhanger, we break for an ad.

Of course, when we come back, we don't know what the offer actually was. It's been made and Mauricio is loath to answer. But he finally does...and agrees. Should he sign something? No, his word is good enough. And now she will go with him to Mexico City. Ay yi yi...big mystery!

Back to the gym now. Don Cesar with his electrified hair, is dressed in matching lilac and pink along with Monita. This has me so entranced I could hardly follow the dialogue but it's essentially this. Jab, jab, a boxer is only as good as his left! Got that?

Monita though is still walking down Memory Lane and it's a painful stroll. We see her mother, very 80's looking, fending off a clinging Valentina while Nieves, also outrageously 80's, begs her to stay. Beto consoles her and after Isabel complains that she's like a "chango" (monkey) clamped to her, he promises her his tender care and reassures her that she's a "monita preciosa" (pretty little monkey). This memory brings on another flurry of hard punches.

As for the mysterious contract, Isabel won't even tell Alicia what it is. But she assures her that she'll see Monita and ask for her forgiveness. However she doesn't want her to know of her illness. One day, she'll have to know, remarks Alicia and when she does, I know "she'll do it for you" (I assume this means the bone marrow donation.)

Pretty heavy stuff but they flip us back again to some humor in the barrio. Nieves is asking Beto to wash his hands for supper. No way is he dining with a "vieja coscolinas" (old brazen hussy). Seems the fellow whose funeral she attended was seen walking around the neighborhood today. Busted.

Well heck, we have more lighthearted stuff. We can always count on Ximena, right? A plastered blinking Rolu is now subjected to hearing all the wedding plans: plans our Ximena has been working on since age 10. There's the dress. And then the decorations...a little "ochentosos" (eighties in style) but no matter. And the church! And the date! How about next Sunday? Super. More frantic blinking. Fab. Means he likes the idea.

Nieves is still in hot water. If she wasn't carousing with some old fart, where was she? Seems she was at Old Doll's Hair house. Even worse. You're trading me in for him!? ¿ERES O TE HACES? They work it out, namely because Beto find out she's cooked "milaneses" and if they get cold, he doesn't know how to warm them up. Our independent lad takes off for dinner. Maternal problem solved. But more problems to come. Monita has overheard the conversation. Learns that Nieves knows something about her mom and heads over to Mauricio's to find out what's up.

More light stuff, thank goodness. The three amigos, Jerry, Oscar and Constanza, are having a wet lunch and cooking up plans. She's tired of hearing about Ximena's wedding project. She just wants Monita and Mauricio separated. As for the adoption, she can handle that herself. But break up that couple, you two baboons! Agreed. They toast, especially since Constanza is a lot nicer with a second martini under her itty bitty belt.

More minor shenanigans. Monita's at the office looking for Mau. She's waylaid by Gabriela who's looking for friendship. Seems with Paula's gossip about her, she's become a pariah in the office. The only way she can clean up her reputation is to hook up with Oscar. (Eres or te haces, Gabriela?)

Oh dear. Back to menacing music and the cool, collected,seemingly heartless Isabel. She's arrived at the barrio and confronts a hostile Nieves. I've changed my mind. I've come back. Dum de dum dum.

Anvils are falling at the office also. Monita wants to know what Mau and Nieves talked about. Beto, he answers. Lies! screams Moni. She told you something about my mother and I want to know what it was. What follows is the usual sturming and dranging that we've been through before. I'll never forgive her. I'll never forgive you for going behind my back. You know, the same old borderline personality I HATE YOU! DON'T LEAVE ME! stuff these telenovelas run on. After Monita storms out, Mauricio, our culto, viajado e intelligente galan, muses that maybe he did wrong. ¿Eres o te haces?)

The two madres are running a bit of sturm and drang themselves, only sotto voce. (How's that for throwing in a lot of furrin words?) Isabel is promising to be the mother Monita always wanted. And with a sweetly romantic story about how she came to be conceived. Not the ugly truth. Promise me you will never tell her that, she entreats Nieves. After all, I'm sick...dying. If you really love Monita as you say you do, you'll agree to this.

Back to the whippersnappers. Ivan and Aldo are horsing around in the yard. Ivan calls him "cuñado" and Aldo tells him to cool it. He doesn't want Teresa to find out about Ivan's forbidden romance and call a halt to all those doughnuts he's been scarfing. The talk turns to Estrella and the impossible love Aldo was referring to earlier. Katja overhears, and even though Aldo calls Katja his "chava" (his girl) she knows she's running second-best in the romance department. Aldo "sigue clavado con ella" (Aldo's still hooked on Estrella).

Estrella, meanwhile, is being treated pretty roughly by Monita who's in a black mood indeed. Our feisty redhead tells her to stuff it (bajale a tu caracter). After all, Estrella's been her most loyal friend in the barrio. Take that girlfriend! Monita goes back to her boxing and Estrella promises they'll talk later.

And our other girlfriend? The very misunderstood Gabriela? Well, she's trying to rehab the rep by planning out loud a rendezvous with Oscar. Give him this letter, please, she tells the comely receptionist. We'll dine at my house at 9pm. But I'm on my way to the hairdressers; and then on to Connie's lingerie store to pick up something sexy for this evening. Wink wink.

Paula intervenes. She wants that letter. Right now. She's got a lot of power here. She's in the union. So hand it over. Totally misunderstanding the intent, she assumes the letter is for Salvador. And tells him Gaby will be waiting for him nude. No need to see the actual letter. Tidy Paula tears it up. We'll definitely stay tuned for tomorrow. And hoping Kris gives us pictures.

Now we find ourselves at Connie's apartment. Katja's wailing about Aldo's infatuation. There's some dissing of Estrella ("pinta de zorra"...looks like a slut) and equal opportunity dissing of Beto (your scummy chauffeur) and then the 411 on Luisa's noviocito Ivan. There's some news that Connie can use. All in good time.

Brief scene with cutie pie Dany playing tea party. Mauricio is supposed to be taking the part of Monita but he's trying to think through his decision with Isabel. Was it wrong? He thinks so. Backs out of the tea party and tries to back out of the contract but Isabel won't let him. I'm just a few yards away from my daughter's gym and I'm going to play to repentant mother.

The two women meet. Tears seem to be brimming in both their eyes. Stay tuned y'all!

Previews:
The usual crazy stuff. Salvador and Gabriela are hot to trot and the dinner table explodes in fire.
Mona appears to be knocked out in the ring.
Connie is vowing to deep-six Mauricio with her new knowledge.
And Monita and her mother have their long-awaited confrontation.

Vocabulary:
mala entraña = heartless, callous
del tingo al tango = all over the place, everywhere
vivito y coleando = alive and kicking
no manches = no kidding
pastillas de coscolinas = hussy pills
marchita por dentro = all withered inside (Monita's mom)
zarrapastroso = scruffy person (Katja referring to Beto)
pinta de zorra = slutty look

Dicho of the Day:
Estrella's dismissal of Nieves. "Hierba mala nunca muere". Weeds never die.

Labels: gancho