Caray, Caray!

Meche and Gabriel are talking. There is a loud knock on the door. Oh, no, it's Erik. Meche invites him in. (Like she had a choice.) He wants to know why she was at the Casa. She said she was looking for a job but decided not to take the job because she didn't want to work with EZ. Erik doesn't believe her. Gabriel finds his set and starts yelling at PDE. PDE pulls out a gun that is almost bigger than he is and says he's going to bust a cap in their a$$. They beg for him to put it down. He tells them they are coming with him.

Chucho and Pedro are telling Alex about what happened the night of the accident. Chucho says it wasn't Paula's fault. The guy got up and ran away on his own two legs. They explain about Meche and Gabriel. Alex asks Chucho if he is sure the money came from Bruno. Chucho says yes. He was behind everything and his dog too. Alex says ok, we need to have Meche identify Bruno. Pedro wants to know if Meche and Gabriel should tell the police. Pedro thanks God that Meche and Gabriel will be saved. Chucho and Pedro think Alex is “The Man.” Alex says let's go see Meche.

Raquel is sitting in her car frantically trying to call someone but keeps getting voice mail. Cut to an apartment with clothes strewn across the floor as if they were taken off in a hurry. Pan to the bed and we see Useless and Bobo basking in the afterglow. (Did I really type that?) Bobo checks the time and can't believe it is so late. (Did anyone else notice the thing next to the bed that looks like a cow? It distracted me so much I had to rewind.) Raquel who is now pacing outside Useless' apartment, gives up and knocks on the door. Uh oh! They are so busted. Raquel comes in demanding to know why he hasn't answered the phone. Useless said he was sleeping. She tries to get into the bathroom but the door is locked. She wants to know who is in there. He won't tell her. She says she loves him and wants to get a divorce. Bobo (in the bathroom) realizes it is Raquel and looks pissed. Useless tells Raquel he will talk to her tomorrow. She wants to know what time. She clings to him as he tries to get her to leave. Sheesh can you say “stalker?” He gets rid of her with a kiss. How pathetic is she? Bobo comes out of the bathroom and he doesn't look very happy. If it is because Useless said there was no one important in the bathroom or the fact that Raquel wants a divorce I''m not sure. Useless tries to talk to him but he brushes past him out the door. Useless says what bad luck.

Alex, Chucho and Pedro head out to Meche's house so Alex can get to the bottom of the whole situation. When they get there the lights are out and nobody is home. They all look worried. Ominous music plays. ( I swear those are the same curtains Margarita and Jacinto had in their living room.) They head over to Gregorio's house. Alex asks Julia if she knows where Meche and her brother are. She says she hasn't seen them. Gregorio comes out of the back room and drops his popcorn when he sees Alex. Alex asks him if he is the cousin of Erik who is the chauffeur or Bruno. He stammers and says yes. Alex leaves his card and says he needs Meche to call him right away to talk about the account at the hospital. The Three Musketeers leave and Julia wants to know who that guy was. Gregorio tells him that it was Alejandro Lombardo.

Meche and Gabriel are trussed up like Christmas geese in the backseat of PDE's car. They look worried but still alive for the moment. Gregorio calls PDE and says Alex was here. Meche pipes up from the back seat and loudly asks if that is Gregorio. Erik walks away from the car so Gregorio won't hear her. PDE wants to know what Alex wanted. Gregorio who should be the number one winner of the Darwin Award says Alex wanted to talk to them about the account at the hospital.

They all head back to Chucho's and Pedro's new crib. They try to figure out where Meche and her brother could have gone. Alex, clever lad that he is, noticed that they left without their clothes. Chucho said she didn't take a job at the house. Alex wonders if they know Bruno. Chucho says he's going to find out where they went.

Bruno shows up at Moora's for their meeting. Moora is bummed that MJ is pregnant.
Bruno cuts to the chase and asks what she wants. Moora wants to know what he is going to do about MJ. Bruno says nothing. Moora looks surprised and wants to know why not. He says that it would look bad for Alex to divorce MJ while she is pregnant so he will wait. Bruno wants to know if she knows anything about his mother seeing Ferdumbo. She says she has no idea and Bruno wants her to find out. She says why don't you find out from Katia. You are amigos. He says something and Moora says no way (ninguna manera). She tells him that if he helps her she will help him.

Bruno wants to know who thought up the idea of Mario Aguirre. Moora says it was Lissette. Bruno thinks that was a stupid idea. She says it worked for a little bit. They get in each other's face and Bruno says something and Moora says that if Ferdumbo finds out that he is congressing with his sister he will kill him. (Ah, we can only hope.) Bruno says then we are at war. I don't know about Viewerville but I think Bruno would probably win that one.

Felipa, EZ and Arturo are in the kitchen. Felipa is wondering why Arturo wasn't driving Raquel. He starts to say something and Ez makes the ahem, ahem, zip it noise. Paula walks in and sees Felipa feeding Cuko. Pau leans over and picks him up. For those of you who are wondering or keeping track, hers are real. OMG the dog is wearing a bib. The cook is going to make some yummy Mexican food for everyone. I wonder if they just call it “food” in Mexico because they are already in Mexico so there's no need to call it “Mexican” food. Hmmmm. Felipa wants Pau to sit down so she can pump her for info. They talk about what Pedro and Chucho are up to. The phone rings and Ez answers it. Ez hangs up and runs into Alex. Ez says Victoria wanted him to let her know when Alex arrived.

Bruno is driving and calls Pimp Daddy E (who is wearing another really bad shirt.). Bruno wants to know what happened. He says he did what he asked him to do. I killed them. Bruno thinks that is just peachy. PDE disgustedly throws his phone in the back seat and curses him.
Alex goes up to see Vicky who is sitting in a chair reading a book. Does she ever really do anything?

Alex tells her that he thinks that Bruno has been up to no good again. To her credit she actually wants to hear about it.

Bobo is in the hot tub. Paula walks up and says hi. He tries to get her to get into the tub. She says she doesn't have a swimming suit and he says she can wear one of Raquel's (Uh, no thanks. We don't know where that thing has been. Oh, wait, yes we do. Ewwww.) Shes worried about what Raquel will say. He says she's probably drunk and watching TV in bed. Paula asks if they sleep together and he says of course not. She looks surprised.

Back to Alex and Vicky. Alex is giving her the lowdown on the newest dirty deeds of Bruno. She says are you sure? Not totally but it is logical. Chucho saw the guy get up and walk away. He says Bruno's dog Erik is involved. Vicky wants to know if Meche actually saw Bruno. Alex says yes but he never told her his name. We went to their house to check it out but they have disappeared. Vicky is distraught. Alex says he knows this is hard for her and it hurts but she has to hear it all. We have to do something. She is crying and Alex tells her it isn't her fault. Yawn...FF>> She doesn't understand why Bruno is so hateful. She wants Alex's forgiveness. Ok everyone, say it with me, “He is a monster but he is my son.” Alex and Vicky hug.

Bobo finally convinced Pau to get in the hot tub. They are talking and drinking champagne. Bobo wants to know what happened with Erik. She's just about to spill her guts but who should walk up? Oh yeah, you know who I'm talking about. Somebody put a bell on that heifer. Of course she starts making a scene. She accuses him of messing with a sister-in-law. Bobo says she is drunk and stupid so shut up already. Bobo gets out of the tub and drags her back to the house. They argue and she smacks him. He asks her if she has a lover. She laughs. She throws a glass at him—again.

Alex is sneaking into the bedroom so he won't wake MJ. But wait—what's that? It's MJ looking all sexy (except for the sling maybe). He looks surprised and happy. Lots of hot kissing and slow dancing to no music. Happy couple talk. I'm not sure any conversation is necessary as he slow dances her toward the bed. FF>> . They end up on the bed and kiss some more. We don't get to see the good stuff unfortunately.

Bobo is apologizing for what happened. Paula's like, it's cool dude, don't sweat it. She tells him that his heifer hates her. Personally, I think she hates everyone including herself. Pau apologizes if she caused any trouble. He gives her a brotherly (or was it?) kiss on the cheek .
Alex and MJ are in bed. Not quite sure if this is before or after because he still has his pants on. He's touching her all over.

Vicky is filling Felipa in on the conversation with Alex. Felipa brings up the fact that MJ said that Bruno was the one that gave her the key to meet him at the hotel. And he was behind the Mario Aguirre deal. Vicky tells her that the women described the man who gave her the money and it was Bruno. Felipa is visibly shaken. Ez calls to tell Vicky that Bruno has arrived.

Vicky lights into him and says how could you blame Paula for the accident. Alex knows everything. You paid those poor people money to say it was Paula's fault. I want to know everything. Bruno plays dumb. Alex has convinced you that I've done something bad. He gives her the guilt trip about her infidelity and it's not his fault. Blah, blah, blah. Sorry everybody FF>> What an asshat.

Vicky and Felipa FF>>

Next day. Alex is getting dressed to go to work. He has to find Meche and her brother.
Chucho is also going out looking for Meche. The lawyer shows up with the paperwork for the DNA testing. Alex thinks that was fast and the attorney tells him that Bruno was in a hurry (tiene prisa).

Bruno and Erik are talking. Bruno doesn't understand why he is so sqeamish about this job. He points out that he did try to kill Alex. Bruno says but this was a woman and a kid. Bruno asks if he would rather spend his life in jail. He asks Erik what he did with the bodies. Erik says he buried them. Alex drives up and Bruno tells Erik to be quiet. Alex and Bruno have words and Bruno says that he gave blood so MJ would live and in return you will give me the presidency and a divorce. You are a man of your word aren't you. Alex says that MJ doesn't want a divorce. Bruno says perhaps (quisas). I don't know why Alex doesn't just tell him to kiss his a$$.
Felipa and Vicky in the bedroom talking. Cuco starts to whine. Hey, I'm right there with you buddy. I'd whine too if I had to listen to those two all day. Bruno comes in and wants to know what's up with Alex. He starts in with the whole guilt thing again and Vicky doesn't want to hear it. He accuses her of abandoning him. She tells him that he's made his own way. She tells him to get out. He wants to know if she's seeing Fernando. She tells him she's not seeing anyone. Like it is any of his business really. She says that if she had known he was going to be such a monster she would have had an abortion and something about going to hell. She storms out. He looks stunned for a minute then advances on Felipa. He tells her that when he is the owner of this place she is history. Cuco barks at him and he leaves. Good job Cuko. Felipa sighs and says he's a demon.

Raquel is at it again and Bobo tells her to shut up.

Chucho is still out looking for Meche. Alex has gone to the hospital to talk to the doctor.
Lissette and Moora talking about Bruno. Katia told Lissette that Bruno is great in bed.

MJ and Paula. Telling MJ about what happened with Bobo and Raquel. MJ says it's not cool to be hanging out with a married man.

Bruno has a meeting with some guy. I think I should know who it is but I don't remember.

Labels: sortilegio

Alternate title: Ximena stars in her telenovela within a telenovela.


Jero tries to borrow money from Rolu but Rolu couldn't care less about Jero and his personal or money problems. Rolu chases Jero out and catches sight of a shapely tush. Sorpre!! (But no surprise for us, we already know it's Ximena.)

Well, Mau and Coni did it, bleck. She asks, nay demands, that in respect to her position as his wife he maintain the charade until their divorce. (Doesn't make sense to me but whatever.) Mau leaves in disgust and Coni smiles her smug little victory smile. Grrrrr, trouble's a-brewing.

Nurse Ximena is drowning Rolu in kisses. He pushes her away and whines that she's not properly trained. Xime tells Rolu that she has all the tools to help in his recovery. The actor playing Rolando can barely keep from cracking up in this scene. She starts to play doctor by listening to his heart with her little stethoscope, whacking his knee just a little too hard with her little reflex hammer ("you have very bad reflexes"), and finally whipping out the "perfect" medical tool, she will take his temp with a horse thermometer. "Relax"...and ay ay ay she naughtily slips the thermometer under the sheets as Rolu howls.

The big Mau family is having a fairly civil breakfast. Jacqui suggests that they get some help for Tere since there are so many of them, but Coni tells Jacqui to butt out of the household business because soon it will no longer concern her. Does Mau want to tell them the happy news? Pleased, Mau announces that he and Coni are going to split up and the kids are staying with him. Everybody except Coni is positively ecstatic. It must be hard to maintain one's dignity when the entire household is so obviously overjoyed at one's impending departure.

Over at the barrio Moni runs into a hung over Beto with a towel hung over his head. She scolds him for drinking to forget and why did he do it? Don't lie, she knows him too well. It was for la momia, right? Beto explodes and tells Moni not to mention that perfidious woman, that damned harpy!

Estrella has a new dress, a hot little red number. Moni raves about it but points out Don Cesar's not going to be happy if she shows up and distracts the guys in the gym. Estrella says she dreamt about La Furia last night. "Me too", mutters Moni.

Mau drops the overjoyed kids off at school and Luisa gives him something, it's a note that Monita gave Luisa to give to him. He shoves it in his pocket and makes them promise not to look for Moni. He doesn't want any problems with Coni or anything to get in the way of them being together. Ominous music plays as he drives away. Uh oh, Aldo runs back down the school steps and heads off down the street.

Over at the lingerie store Jacqui is congratulating Coni on her wise decision and impending financial windfall due to the divorce. Xime joins Coni and Jacqui and proceeds to tell them three things. One, her own marriage is in danger of 5, 4, 3, 2, boom, being over. Two, she's looking for ways to rescue it but she's not asking Coni's advice because Coni should get advice, not give it. Three, she can't remember if she removed the thermometer she put in Rolu. Jacqui looks intrigued. Crabby Coni isn't in the mood to listen to Xime's stupidities and tells her so. Jacqui suggests that Xime be a good influence on Coni, why can't she just divorce her husband and take all his money?

Coni cuts to business and says she wants to tell them something together because they are the only ones who know she's pregnant. She reveals her dastardly plot, she has no intentions of divorcing Mau and she slept with him last night because she wants him to think the baby is his. Xime tries to hide her eyes from this hideous news.

Meanwhile Estrella and Moni are hanging out in front of the gym discussing Estrella's plans to add a male mantis to her insect collection. La Furia parks his bike while Monita grins and Estrella seductively shakes her bootie. Furia says hello to Monita and doesn't appear to notice the foxy lady in red. He and Moni promise to go to each other's fights and Estre finally sidles in and asks Hey what about me? She starts caressing his shoulders when Aldo appears, whips La Furia around and coldcocks him to the horror of the ladies. "You want Fury (Furia) Estrella? Well here he is!"

Jacqui can't understand why Coni insists on battling to keep Mauricio. Xime interrupts and says she doesn't exactly understand what they are talking about. Jacqui spells it out, Coni is preggers by another man and wants Mau to think he's the father. Xime is impactada and comments that it's so low! But it's also very creative like in a telenovela. However in telenovelas the truth always gets discovered. Neither Jacqui nor Xime want to be a part of Coni's telenovela.

Back at the gym Aldo puts his foot on Furia's chest and refuses to let him get up. Estrella gives him girlie slaps and tells him to beat it, she's with a real man. Moni pulls Aldo away while Furia pulls himself together. Ineresting for him, how will he deal with his son without revealing his true identity?

Jacqui tries to talk sense into Coni but Xime tells her not to bother, Coni is very slow about comprehending certain things. Coni tells Xime to shut up and Xime passionately yells back "No you shut your own mouth for once, and find yourself another friend to keep your dirty secrets!" Wow, did our Xime just yell? She calmly tells Coni to stop giving her bad vibes and she has three things to say. One, Mao Tse Tung has to know what she's doing to him. Two, she's going to tell him. Three, (pulls lingerie off rack) where did Coni find the adorable ensemble? Coni wants to tell Xime just one thing, if Ximena opens her mouth she will kill her, no kidding she will KILL HER!

Moni is still holding Aldo back, she tries to explain that the green guy is a professional and could kick his butt. Furia calmy tells Aldo that Estre is a friend and shouldn't he be in school? This sets Aldo off again, I'm not a child! Moni finally lets him go, Aldo tries to take another swing at Furia, Furia ducks and spins Aldo over his head while the girls laugh and call him escuincle. (How humiliating!) Moni and Furia go inside and Aldo asks Estre how can she like that guy over him? She picks up Furia's jacket off the ground and of course the letter falls out. Aldo peeks at it and sees that it's Monita's letter "To Mauricio". Cara impactada de Aldo.

Inside the gym the ladies try to get Furia to lift up his mask just a little so they can clean his bloody boo-boo lip. No luck there. Don Cesar arrives and accuses Estrella of distracting Furia, and caray, caray what happened to Furia's face? Don Cesar tells Moni to get busy with practice and he kicks Estrella out of the gym once and for all.

Coni convinces Xime that if Xime betrays her she literally will kill her. Xime has goose bumps and says she no longer wants to be part of Coni's telenovela. Coni tells her it's more like a horror film, and if she can't kill Xime she'll kill her cousin Mauricio. All Xime has to do to save them is keep her mouth shut. Xime says if she is to be part of Coni's telenovela then here is her last line..."Get ready Constanza Lerdo de Tejana, because one day you will pay dearly for all the damage you are causing, one day and it's not far away, aja!!" Xime spins around to leave, her pony tail horizontal, then she grabs the dainty undies as her payment for silence and swooshes out dramatically, just like a real telenovela star!

Jacqui tells Coni that Coni is her daughter and she's on her side whether she agrees with her or not. Coni is all "sure sure, just tell me how much money you want to maintain your silence." Jacqui responds "finally we understand each other."

Unmasked Mau and Don Cesar are behind closed doors where DC can tend to Mau's wound (and what in the heck is hanging off Mau's lip?). Mau is mad that Aldo skipped school; DC points out the kid hides from school for the love of a woman just as Mau hides behind his mask for the love of a woman, where does the kid learn his tricks, eh? DC says Mau's bigger problem is that Estrella is falling for La Furia. Mau thinks he won't have to keep up the charade much longer because Coni is going to give him a divorce. However until he and Coni are divorced he can't let Monita know so he needs to keep his mask on.

Jero goes to the bar and finds Ximena there drinking and thinking. Hah thinking, he says, the day she thinks will be the end of the world. Jero is very interested to hear that Xime just saw his lady love Jacqui but Xime shuts him down. She has to concentrate on her problem to find a solution. Jero keeps telling Xime how stupid she is, whenever he thinks she couldn't possiby be more stupid, well she is! Xime says she suddenly remembers a message that Jacqueline had for Jero. It's trememndous and guess what it is?!? Tell me tell me tell me squeaks Jero jumping up and down excitedly in his seat! "Oh whoops, I'm so stupid I forgot it, byeeeee!" Our Ximena loves to play the dingbat but in reality she is quite a devious, almost sadistic, scamp.

Gabi brings cranky Sal some cinnamon tea. "What part of bring me nothing do you not understand?" he asks. She tells him fine, it's just a pretext so she can talk to him. What's up with him these days? What's up with his silence, his distance, his indifference? She's patient but she has her limits. He sighs and says he needs time. How much, she wants to know? For now he just wants to be alone. With his toupee. (Heh, I made up that last bit.) Gabi leaves, unsatisfied.

Nieves is getting bouncing baby boy Beto ready for school, er I mean work. She crosses him and wishes the sainted cross to protect her little angel from bad women and bad thoughts. Oh mama, you are SO way too late for that. Ivan hangs around and asks Beto if he can go to work with him, he wants to talk to Mauricio about something. Beto says sure as long as Ivan pays for the taxi. Beto is running late because his ma made him eat a big plate of chilaquiles with cheese, crema, onions, all sorts of things. "Don't forget to eat lunch!" Nieves yells after him.

Coni and Jacqui invade Grupo Sermeño. Gabi tells them it's nice to see Jacqui but she can't say the same about Coni. Jacqui tells Gabi no problem, she knows Coni has "sangre pesada", (heavy blood) i.e. a nasty disposition. Gabi continues to dis Coni after she flounces off. Jacqui sez no problem, she's her daughter and she knows her. Gabi should have known Coni as a kid. When she was ten she was stung by a scorpion. Luckily nothing happened to Coni but the poor scorpion died.

Gabi goes off to get some coffee for Jacqui. What should happen next but Jacqui runs into Sal, "You always end up in my arms, Salvador" she flirts.

Moni trains at the punching bag while Don Cesar coaches. It sounds like she won't have a fight for another month. Then DC asks her not to bring Estrella to the gym because she distracts Moni and the guys. In fact one of the guys fell and broke his nose trying to get a look at Estrella as she flirted with the whole world. Moni says not the whole world, only La Furia Enmascarada. She asks DC what Furia looks like without his mask and DC is saved by the commercial.

Sal explains to Jacqui that he and his crazy wife are getting a divorce. Jacqui, who by the way is acting like a kid who's about to pee her pants, tells Sal that's great, he can pick her up at 8:30. More talk and oh, it turns out Jacqui DOES have to go to the bathroom. She dashes off to the Mujeres but is ambushed by Jero who wants to know why she was talking to Sal and acting all (moves up and down, mimicking Jacqui with a full bladder). "I have to pipi, idiota!" she snaps and tries to escape.

Now we have another great scene with these two. They are bickering about her dumping him and not giving him another chance, meanwhile Jacqui is hopping around trying to keep from wetting herself and Jero is hopping around in postural echo. He thought they were a team conspiring against Coni. Jacqui tells him things have changed and finally manages to tear herself away, leaving Jero skittering and scowling in frustration.

Well well, who should show up at the gym but Ximena?! Moni gives her a big hug but is curious as to why Xime is there looking for Robi el Fantasma Vengador. Xime tells her it's about something horrible but she can't tell Moni what it is. Moni throws Xime up against the punching bag and tells her to throw out the soup. Xime, still acting in her telenovela and clearly wanting Moni to force the truth out of her, tells Moni she can't reveal the truth because Coni will kill her. She dramatically insists "I can't, I can't, I can't", then eyes Moni hopefully.

Tomorrow: Coni thanks Beto for not letting her go through with the abortion because the child is not Beto's, it's Mauricio's.

When I was in Guanajuato the college kids who showed us around were very interested to hear that we collect dichos. Here are a couple they shared with me...

Arrieros somos y en el camino andamos - What goes around comes around (Lit. We are all driving animals along the same road, inferring that if we don't help someone then it will come back to bite us someday.)

Hay que hablar a calzón quitado - Speak as if you don't have knickers on, i.e. speak frankly.

Labels: gancho

Sorry for the late notice but I'm unwell tonite and can't do a recap right now--will try to update sometime tomorrow.

Update: Here's the recap, and thanks again everyone for your patience and for pitching in.



Repeat of Alonso talking with Natalia about Paloma--he understands now why Inaki fell in love with her. He also mentions that if they need to seek justice re: Inaki’s death, he’ll do it, and if he finds proof of anything, he’ll be relentless.

Camila sees Samuel and Carlota talking on the street—he’s trying to ask her out—and wonders what he’s up to. She doesn’t like the two of them together.

Orlando whines to Angelica about he’s jealous that Camila is going to the convention, and Rafael will surely be there. Angelica worries that he’s so insecure when his marriage with Camila is already a done deal.

Rafa asks Joel if Camila has accepted the invitation to the convention. No, not yet. Well, you’re going to have to pressure her, replies Rafa. Joel doesn’t think that’s a good idea but Rafa insists that he try at the wedding today.

Carlota is on the phone with Paloma’s fake dad--she deposited an advance in the account and when she finds out that he did his job, she’ll deposit the rest.

Rufi is with Edmundo’s granddaughter who’s trying to call the Espinosa house, but the line is busy. Rufi is anxious to speak with Paloma and tell her that she’ll be back in a few days.

Carlota informs Pal that she located her father and he’s going to talk with Padre Juan Cristobal. Pal is sure that PJC will be disillusioned with her father just as she was. And with she hopes PJC will forget about her father, as she would like to do. She wants to get away from the past and hopes she’s not going to find out about anything else . . . or is there anything she should know? No, of course not, lies Carlota. Carlota promises that Pal isn’t alone and she’ll always be there for her.

PJC tells Orlando he doesn’t agree with the Emiliano-Romina marriage because it’s full of blackmail and manipulation. He also says that he’ll be late to the wedding because he has an important appointment with the guy who says he’s Pal’s father.

Romina, appropriately adorned in a tiara to reflect her ME-ME-ME diva complex, complains to the hairdresser that her hair looks horrible. She goes into the bathroom and finds blood running down her leg. She immediately dials Carlota911 to ask for help--she can’t lose the baby before the wedding, or else Emil won’t marry her. Carlota tells her to calm down and rest as much as she can and she’ll try to find out if there’s something she can take to stop the bleeding.

Rafa tells Emil that he’s really proud of him and he knows he’s making a huge sacrifice. I think Emil says he wouldn’t be half the man he is if not for Rafa.

Paloma takes the dolls from her dollhouse (Inaki, Emiliano, and Romina), says goodbye and puts them in her treasure box (is that Mac’s box?). She cries that it hurts as much to lose Emiliano as it does to lose Romina--she was more than a friend, she was a sister for Pal.

Carlota is on the phone trying to get info on some medicine for Romi.

Roberto (Samuel’s ex-roommate) calls Alonso with news about Inaki’s investigation into Pal’s inheritance--it was handled by Luis Duarte. Pal’s parents weren’t in debt, and Carlota sold their house. Also, Pal was the beneficiary of Sagrario’s investments/accounts.

Carlota calls Romi to tell her that she’s sending over the medicine. When Camila comes in Romi pretends that she’s dizzy and nauseous. Camila suggests they postpone the wedding but of course Romi says no way.

Paloma comes downstairs in her new look and Carlota asks why the change. Pal says she’s not a little girl anymore and doesn’t want anyone to remember the good Pal, the one who suffers and is unhappy. Carlota doesn’t like the new clothes. On their way out Carlota comments that Pal’s new hairdo reminds her of Macarena.

Romi whines some more that she looks pale, terrible, etc. and shoots down Cami’s suggestion that her not feeling well is a sign she shouldn’t go through with the wedding.

Diana shows up and informs Emil that Romina invited her. Emil pulls her aside and when she tells him he can ask for anything from her, he says, then give my dad (Rafa) a divorce. Just then Samuel arrives.

PJC leaves for Pachuca with some guy (I think he works at the church?).

The wedding ceremony starts. Angelica notices blood on Romi’s dress and informs Camila. Camila yells out “you’re bleeding!” and everyone stands around looking dramatic while Hitchcock-ian suspense music plays.

Everyone yells at Romi to see a doctor but she insists that they continue with the ceremony. Emil and Cami try to drag her toward the stairs and Samuel tells her he will ask the judge to wait, so she finally relents. Mientras tanto, Diana looks nervous and downs a couple drinks.

Carlota drives along while thinking that Pal will never be able to be happy with any man, she won’t allow it. Pal boo-hoos to herself about Emil.

Natalia sees Alonso working on his computer but he claims he’s just on the Internet. He asks about the guy who replaced Rojas (German), he couldn’t remember his name. Nat asks if he’s reached Carmen--he sent a message, so hopefully she checks her mail.

Liliana and friends greet Pal with flowers and lots of cheers. Carlota sighs and rolls her eyes.

Rufi calls the house and the new maid, Felipa, answers and explains that Carlota hired her because Rufi doesn’t work there anymore. Rufi’s surprised to hear this and asks to speak to La Loca, but she’s not home. Rufi tells Felipa to give Carlota the message that she’ll be back soon and if she’s going to fire her, she’ll have to do it herself.

Cami tells Romi her life and the baby’s could be in danger; their health should be her priority. But no, Romi continues to insist that her top priority is her wedding. Cami asks Romi if she was bleeding when she claimed earlier that she had called the doctor about being dizzy, but Romi denies it. Cami goes to call the doc but Romi tells her not to and confesses that she hadn’t called anyone earlier.

Pal tells Lili how Romi didn’t want to cancel the wedding even when Emil said he didn’t love her. Lili tries to encourage her to move on but Pal weeps that she can’t. I guess she has already forgotten the little speech she gave Carlota 15 minutes ago about wanting to change and not be a little girl anymore.

Downstairs at the Drama Queen’s house Diana and Ines are chatting. Diana says the wedding has to go on for the purposes of her plan of vengeance. She whispers something to Ines that we don’t hear--Ines' response is that she can’t be a witness to that. Diana is not going to take things lying down, what with Rafa in support of Emil being against her and all. Ines refuses to be Diana’s accomplice and walks off.

Carlota is bored at the art showing and tells Pal that the class of friends she invited turn her stomach, so Pal tries to defend. Then Pal mentions that some important painter gave everyone the opportunity to exhibit at this event, and shows Carlota one of his paintings. Pal thinks Mac would have liked to have seen this and gets sad that she, Rufi, and Emil aren’t there with her. Carlota takes this opportunity to remind Pal that she better forget about Emil, because married men are off limits.

German asks Emil if he’ll still marry Romi if she loses the baby, but Emil doesn’t want to think about that. German reminds Emil that one time he suggested Pal would be a good for German--after all, she has to remake her life with someone. Emil doesn’t like that idea and orders German to keep away from Pal. Dr. B. arrives and comments that he still needs German’s help and to let him know if he changes his mind. Emil asks what’s up and German replies that Dr. B. has a legal issue but he doesn’t want to get involved.

Liliana et al. try to cheer Pal up. Her teacher runs up all excited to tell her that someone is interested in her paintings, and something about he wants to give Pal an arts scholarship?

Dr. B. checks Romi. Cami goes to get the medicine from the pharmacy that Romi took earlier. Romi begs him to help save the baby.

Carlota is annoyed about the scholarship and argues with Pal. Yay, here comes Cesar Evora! He’s introduced as Eugenio Lizarde. He looks like he might be interested in Carlota.

Labels: amor

Hey there, I'm back again but still catching up so this is a little light tonight. SUPER thanks to Cap'n Sharkbait for filling in for me. What a treat. I need to catch up, but I'll be back in the swing soon. OK onward....

Connie gets a new one from her Mom about being with a man who doesn’t love her and that will gradually eat her insides out. I'm hoping to see that.

Moni and Paula rag on Estre for throwing herself at the luchador she barely knows. I think Estre looks hell of hot now.

Beto shows up stinking drunk. He wants some lovin’ They refuse to give it to him. He goes off in a huff.

Poor Xime is crying when Jero comes home. Ironically he complains to her about a woman who wanted him only for his money. Xime says huh, and you don’t even have any. He eventually feels better that he will get the right girl. He still neglects to make Xime feel better, instead telling her it’s her fault for all this. She bawls more.

Luisa shows up and Mona is happy to see her. So is Ivan. They are being watched though so they don’t get too close.

Jaqui talks to Mau about Connie and thinks that he needs to treat her better. He claims she provokes him and only thinks of herself. She reminds him all he’s provoking is more hate from her dangling this other woman in front of her. She says he needs to be patient and treat her differently to change her attitude so she backs down her guard a little.

Estre asks Katia how Aldo is. They spar cattily for a bit, Estre is with someone new, blah, blah, Estre insults Katia that she should buy a forest and get herself lost.

Katia and Ivan discuss the possibility that something is up between Beto and Her sister Con. Ivan promises to see what he can find out.

The kids leave the barrio and Katia yells out she’s leaving it to Ivan. Mona hears this and her interest is piqued.

Mau has the calming conversation with Coni, he begs her pardon for all he’s done to her, including loving another. He knows she must act this way because she’s been hurt. He says aside of all of the horrible things she’s done he’s willing to forgive, and expects her to do the same. He starts to leave, and she breaks out the water works. She’ll give him the divorce.

Lu and Kat show up at the house. Aldo comes to chat, and learns that Ivan will help them and Ester has forgotten him, she’s with the luchador. Aldo refuses to believe it.

Coni gives Mau the kids, she just wants to spend one night with him like when it was only the two of them. Mau says no way. That’s absurd. They fight about this, she renegs on giving him the divorce since he won’t give in. Ugh for crap’s sake!!!

Aldo soon starts asking questions about the luchador. Kat keeps insulting Estre as being a street girl and acting that she cares about Aldo. He throws Kat out.

More fighting between Coni and Mau. Coni lays on the guilt trip that he is only one night away from being with Mona because she could leave and go to Europe with her Ma.

The barrio girls chat about the letter Mona wrote. They talk about the love she has for him…

Coni keeps up the heat. Mau decides he can’t and walks out asking to think about it. Ah crap, here we go again. Why does he let her manipulate him like that? UGH!!!!!

Aldo calls Estre and wants to know about the luchador. She realizes Kat opened her mouth. She says she’s giving the luchador a chance, and they can’t be together so get over it. Aldo won’t take it, they can’t be just friends.
Mau lies in bed apparently struggling over the decision as he flashes back to Mona and then Coni’s proposition. He really does look like his brain is hurting. Mon apparently dreams about him too, this time that he has come back to her forever and he proclaims himself hers that he will come back but she doesn’t want him to leave. At the end she’s really hugging the Masked Fury.

Coni is sprawled out on the bed when we hear a knock. Mau thought it over and will sleep with her if tomorrow she’s gone. He says he won’t kiss her. What the hell then, why bother. Sheesh.

Nieves is with Cesar who is off to a meet with promoters who will set Mona’s next fight. Nieves wants him to get some tacos on the way for himself. She tries to wake up Beto with pots and pans and of course he is in a bad way.

A nurse is back at Rolu’s and Jero is lusting over her. Jero promises not ot rat Rolu out with Xime if he lends Jero money to resolve some debts. Rolu is not interested. Jero teases him and manages to evade him. Rolu kicks him out and turns to the nurse who is still shaking her ass in his face. SURPRISE!!! She turns around and it’s our Xime!!! Rolu is impacted.

We see a sulking Mau who says he will talk right away with his lawyers. She says go ahead, but don’t go after Mona until we are legally divorced. She smiles an evil smile, and he gives a look of alright, fine. And that’s it!

Labels: gancho

Capitulo 45

Katia and Maura leave Maura's house.

Ale tells Victoria about the visiting Dr Hernan and about MJ asking for a paternity test. Ale tells victoria that he is the father of the baby. Ale wants Victoria to have a relationship with MJ without all the drama. Victoria says ok. Victoria asks what Ale knows of Bruno. Ale says nothing. The lawyers are waiting to submit the request to see if they are brothers... and the world is going to fall over says Victoria. NO says Ale, we still have time to give him everything he wants. No says Victoria, your father would never forgive me, and it is not right.

Katia and Lisette are walking close to some beach slurping something loud through straws. Katia tells Lis how she is spying for Bruno. She is really stupid even for being 17. They stop to take off their shoes to so they can walk in the sand. Lis says that Katia must really be in love to spy.

Fountain...

Chucho meeting someone...

Pedro painting....

Chucho and Pedro having lunch. Pedro tells Chucho that he had MJ recommend Meche for a job at Ale's house. Chucho tells Pedro that Meche cannot work there. Chucho then tells the story why Meche cannot work there.

EZ is on the phone and says Meche what do you want? He then tells Felipe that Meche is a recommended employee from Ale.

MJ answers her phone and what a surprise it is Papa. Papa finds out MJs already told Ale about Meche. Papa is really sweating it literally. He is wiping the sweat off his face. Papa tells MJ that she needs to stop it make up something to Ale. Papa is in Merida and will come and see MJ.

Chucho will go see Meche as Pedro is off to see MJ.

EZ interviews Meche. Meche doesn't really have any recomendations. EZ says they will try her for a week.

Paula is telling Roberto that she doesn't want to go live with her father. She wants to live in the big house and eat good food. Roberto tells her he understands. It is easy to get accustomed to the good life. He says they are alike. She says it is not, but they swing in the swing and try to go faster and higher.

Maura tells Lis nothing that they have tried has work and now she needs to form an alliance with Bruno. Maura calls Bruno who is busy with the lawyers. Bruno tells Maura he will come to her house this afternoon.

Roberto and Paula are on the stairs now. Roberto says that Paula didn't tell him that she knew Bruno before coming here. Of course not says Paula. Roberto says he thought they were becoming friends and you trust friends. Paula says not if they really don't want to be friends. Roberto tell Paula to test him.

MJ and Victoria talk about painting and writing. Mj says she is ignorant, but Victory says no, you just have to be sensible etc. MJ struggles to ask what Victoria thinks about her baby. Victoria tells MJ that her baby is her grand child, and MJ cries.

Pedro comes to the house. Paula comes running to greet him. I just realize that I keep hearing cymbals clash and certain times. Pedro tells Paula that he has come to visit and when EZ leaves to tell MJ, Pedro tells Paula that they have a new misfortune. Paula shakes her head. No!

Meche is telling Gabriel that she starts work tommorow. Chucho is on his way to visit Meche. Meche lets him in. Gabriel says he exercises and shows Chucho how he is on his way to walking. Meche tells how she has a job at the house. Chucho tells Meche she cannot work there.

Pedro tells MJ what Chucho told him about Meche, and Paula is hoppin mad that she could have gone to prison for a lies. Paula is very mad. Pedro explains that Chucho is a good person, that he got them a place in Merida and paid for every thing.

Chucho is getting the description of Bruno out of Gabrial and Meche. Tall, thin, dark hair, fair skinned, good body. Meche says they gave the money back to Erick.

Pedro is whining to MJ. Meche was only working at the club to help Gabriel. MJ tells Papa that he is always giving her problems. Papa promises that this is the last time. Right!

Ale and Fer at the office going over plans, and the lawyer comes. The lawyer believes the process will take 3 or 4 years.

Bruno is talking strategy with his lawyers. Something about Hernan?

Katia calls Bruno to tell Bruno that Alex's lawyer just left. He says she has done good.

Ale and Fer talk some more and gets quite heated but I did not catch it. They leave the office and Katia wants to get more info out Fer but he is busy. Says he was just meeting with Alex and the lawyer.

Paula is out walking off her anger. Erick comes running to her obviously glad to see her and says something about her returning with her sister. Paula shoves him and says she is not happy, Why Erick asks? Paula kicks Erick in the shin for good measure. You dare to ask with the misfortune in my life? Paula walks off as Roberto ask s Erick what is wrong. Erick says he doesn't know, that she is crazy.

Ale comes home and EZ tells him he talked with Meche and they will try her out for a week. Also, that Pedro came to visit MJ and Paula.

MJ is asleep. Ale awakes and kisses her and asks MJ , asking about her day. MJ says she had a nice visit with his Madre. They talked about the project that Victoria is working on with Fer and Victoria invited her to participate. Good says Ale. What else? Who else says MJ? Ales says are you going to tell me about the visit with your Padre?

Rachel is talking on the phone with someone. She wants as soon as possible an apartment that outside the city that is pretty and comfortable and secluded. Roberto ask who she was talking to and Rachel says it is not important.

MJ sighs and gets up. Ale tells MJ he has had a bad day and he doesn't need complications. She is supposed to tell him. She promised she would tell her husband things. She says they are not married. Finally ,this man that has got to win a medal for patience gets MJ to tell him the truth. Yeah!!!! It took a lot!

EZ, Felipe and Arturo are in the kitchen talking about Mecha.

Ale , I think tells MJ about some of the problems Bruno is causing , and then gets the address of where Pedro is.

Ale tells Victoria that he has problems he has to take care of. She wants to know what problems, but he hurries out.

Rachel comes in and rants and somewhere in this tirade I hear more cymbals clashing. Rachel says she is not important and Victoria says she is. Rachel tells her she is getting a divorce, and Victoria questions her about it. Rachel is ranting and ranting, and I my ears refuse to hear. Victoria calls for Felipe and leaves and Rachel screams after her and then gets a car from Arturo.

Erick comes down to talk with Arturo who tells Erick that Meche, the sister of the guy that pretended to be in the accident, is coming to work at the house, by Ale's recommendation.

Erick is off to call Bruno to give him the news. Bruno says they cannot take the risk and tells Erick to kill them.

Victoria is talking with Felipe when she gets a call from Fernando. She tells him she will see him tomorrow afternoon.

Pedro and Chucho are cleaning up when there is a knock on the apartment door. Guess who? Ale. Ale tells them that MJ told him everything. BUSTED!!!

Paula is painting her toenails while talking to MJ. They talk about love and other stuff.

Chucho and Pedro explain their reasons to Ale for doing what they did. Ale tells them that it has caused lots of problems with his family. Pedro says they are good people. Ale says it is okay. Ale knows that it was Erick that started this.

Erick is banging on Meche's door. Erick is screaming to be let in. Meche tries to offer him some coffee. Erick manhandles her and asks her about her job at the house. Meche says she was offered a job but said no cause EZ is very bossy.Erick pulls out his gun and lots of yelling but my dvr ends.

Labels: sortilegio

Carloca tells the new maid that she doesn't know if Rufi will come back and offers her the job.

PJC talks to Padre Benito about Carloca denying that Paloma is his child. And saying that that Paloma's father is someone else. Padre Benito tells him to investigate. Because your promotion depends on it. PJC agrees.

Joel is asking Monica why she rejected him. She denies it. She just doesn't want to be rejected again once he finds out about her life. They get interrupted by Camila. Joel was waiting for her. He has an invitation for her to a ceramics convention. He and Rafael have already confirmed and want her to come along. She wants to think about it.

Orlando tells Emiliano that they have found a house and Romina is going to decorate it. Emiliano gets a hissy fit. Orlando tells him that he needs to change his attitude or his life will be hell. Emiliano says it's not that easy. Orlando says you have to try for Romina and your child. If it doesn't work out then you at least tried.

Romina is shopping for a couch and notices a couple shopping together. She cries.

Rufi is taken to a party. Edmundo walks up and apologizes for having told her a white lie. He wanted her to meet his children and grandchildren. And it was the only way for her to see the house he would buy her once she married him. Rufi laughs in his face and says they will never marry. Especially since I now know that you are a liar. Edmundo says I did this all for you because I care about you. Rufi says whatever and demands to go back to Real del Monte a.s.a.p.

PJC goes to visit Macarena's grave. He understands why she asked him to care for Paloma. He always wanted to have a child with her. Paloma is so great. I have to find out if Paloma is telling me the truth or Carloca.

Paloma reminds Carloca after Jennifer leaves that Rufi will be back in a couple of days. Carloca tells her to worry about her things and she'll worry about everything else. Paloma tells Carloca that Saturday is her art exhibit. Carloca asks if she's going to the wedding. No, replies Paloma. Carloca tells her it's a good idea and offers to pay for a new dress and salon visit to look nice for the exhibit.

Rufi demands Edmundo's granddaughter find out when she will be leaving. She tells Rufi that the bus only comes twice a week so they cannot leave today. Rufi is not happy.

Joel tells Rafael that he told Camila about the convention but she wants to think about it first. Rafael grills him.

Monica is trying to convince Camila to go to the convention.

Alonzo is taking a walk at the park and talks to Inaki's spirit. He spots Paloma and walks up to her. Paloma gets frightened, but he says it alright. He wants to know if he can talk to her for a minute. He says that he was very unfair with her. Paloma tells him that she loved his son very much. I understand that you and Carloca did not accept our relationship although at the end Carloca did. Alonzo asks if she was not surprised about Carloca's change of attitude. Paloma says she was, but figures that Carloca realized that she couldn't keep them apart. Alonzo wants to know if Inaki was sick that last night at her house. Paloma says not really. At the end of the night he was a little, but I figured he just drank too much. He was hurt that you (Alonzo) wasn't going to be at the wedding, but hoped that you would eventually accept me. Alonzo wants Paloma to tell him how she and Inaki met and what she thought of him. Paloma says they met at a party. We see a montage of her relationship with Inaki. Everything from how they met, sneaking around to see each other, their wonderful moments together and his proposal at the church. Also their last night together and his death. Alonzo the whole time is either smiling or crying. They hug.

Liliana tells Emiliano everything that happened between Romina and Paloma. Paloma telling Romina that she will not be at the wedding witnessing the man she loves marry another. Liliana says she came to tell him because Romina wouldn't.

PJC goes to la casa de la loca aka Carloca's house. He asks Paloma to speak with Carloca.

Emiliano looks out the window and says to himself how wonderful and strong Paloma is. Angelica comes in and asks Emiliano if everything is okay. He tells her that Paloma had the balls to tell Romina how she felt about him and he never told Romina how he felt about Paloma. Angelica reminds him that he did want to in the beginning, but Paloma begged him not too. He's not a coward. Emiliano asks Angelica if he told Romina how he felt about Paloma, that she would cancel the wedding. Angelica doesn't think so.

PJC asks Carloca and Paloma where he can find her father. Paloma asks why. He is a very undesirable person. PJC says he understands, but has some questions for him.

Emiliano asks Romina if Paloma told her that she was not coming to the wedding. Romina says yes because she prefers to go to her art show instead. Emiliano says that she not coming because she loves me just like I love her.

Carloca says that it's really not PJC business. PJC says it's important. Carloca doesn't understand why now that Macarena's dead and Paloma doesn't want anything to do with her father. Why do you want to talk to him? PJC says he has reasons to meet him, but if Carloca doesn't want to help he'll find other ways. Paloma says I don't really see why, but if you insist okay. Carloca says she'll call him and give him PJC's number.

Romina can't believe that Emiliano admitted to her how he feels about Paloma. Because it's the truth replies Emiliano. I would have told you sooner, but Paloma didn't want too. Romina says then you will have to forget about your love for her the moment we get married. Emiliano says they shouldn't get married. It's a bad idea now that you know I love Paloma. Romina says I don't care if you love Paloma or not. Emiliano replies that their marriage will be hell. I promise to be the best father, but don't obligate me to marry you knowing that I love Paloma who is like a sister to you. Romina says that Paloma stopped being her friend the moment she had eyes for him. So don't talk to me about her anymore and start forgetting about her this very moment. Because if you don't marry me, I promise you will never see your child. Fine replies Emiliano. But understand I am only marrying you to be a father to our child, not your husband.

Carloca tells the actor she paid to call PJC and tell him the same story he told Paloma. Fake daddy Juan tells Carloca it's not the same. It's one thing lying to a child and another lying to a priest. Carloca says it's the same thing. Fake Juan says if you want me to lie to the priest it's going to be costly. Carloca finally agrees.

Emiliano calls Paloma wanting to see her. She thinks it's not a good idea, but he says that he would ring the doorbell. He has to see her. She finally agrees to see him at the park.

Camila tells Orlando about the convention and wants him to join her. He has to see a client. They get into an argument because he knows that Rafael will be there and doesn't want her to go. She tells him that she has made her own decisions for years and will not allow someone to come in and tell her what to do.

Romina is crying to her daddy about how Emiliano doesn't love her but Paloma. BLAH-BLAH. Samuel is annoyed, but tries to hide it. He tells her to calm down. He says there is a thin line between love and hate. She needs to change tactics. What tactics asks Romina? The victim replies Samuel. It never fails. No man likes a difficult woman. They like to protect a woman, provide for her and be the authority. So if you make him feel like he's the boss and is needed then things will change. Romina says that's not me. Samuel says if you want your marriage to work then you will.

Paloma asks Emiliano why he told Romina the truth. Because you did replies Emiliano. Well yeah because soon I will be leaving this place and it doesn't matter. She should have never known how he feels about her. It will only cause more problems. I thought that if she knew how I felt about you she would cancel the wedding. Why do we have to give up on our love all because of a mistake? It's not fair to us. Life is not fair replies Paloma. You have to marry Romina tomorrow and I will have to leave here. I have to make a life without you. It's not easy without you. But I love you so much replies Emiliano. So do I says Paloma. They kiss.

Diana wants Carloca to help unmask the woman that Rafael is now with since she will be at the wedding. Carloca says that she will not be able to go because she is going to Paloma's art exhibit instead. But you can do that all on your own. Diana says I need your advice then. You are a smart woman. Tell me what to do. Carloca tells her to out the woman in front of everyone.

Samuel goes to visit Emiliano. He yells at Emiliano to treat Romina right and not only are they to have a civil ceremony, but also a religious one. Emiliano says that's between Romina and me. No replies Samuel. She is my daughter and it is my business to protect her. If that was the case says Emiliano, you would never have abandoned her as a child. Samuel starts to say something, but Emiliano interrupts and says he has no right to say anything to him. Samuel says he's with her now to protect her and care for her. Emiliano tells him then to convince Romina not to marry him because he doesn't love her. Samuel says he won't do it. And if Romina cries one tear over him then he'll have to deal with him. Emiliano tells Samuel to get out.

Fake Juan calls PJC. PJC wants to meet tomorrow. They set up a meeting.

Alonzo tells Natalia that she was right about Paloma. I know understand why Inaki feel in love with her. I saw her at the park and talked to her. I want to help her because Inaki would have wanted me too.

Carloca and Samuel meet up in the streets. He wants to invite her to coffee, but Carloca has to go to Paloma's art exhibit. Camila spots Samuel giving Carloca's hand a kiss and wonders why they are together.


Manana: La boda de Romina and Emiliano; Paloma's new look

Labels: amor

Wow, ENDA ran really long last night! As did last night's rehearsal…we were there until 11! My feet are killing me and I have no idea how this show is going to come together by Friday's opening. But let's discuss a different sort of show, shall we?

Vicky tries to convince herself that Hernán is the guy for her.

Alex advises his BEST FRIEND to be patient re: his luuuuurve for his MOTHER. Fernando thinks age is just a number. Alex tells him he's obsessed and hasn't been out with a girl his own age in a while. Maybe Fer should so that he can give Vicky her space. Hilariously, Alex says Vicky has enough problems without having a jealous lovah…you should talk, man. Fernando just isn't into girls his own age, but Alex doesn't think mommy returns Fernando's love.

Alex goes to bed, where MaryJo is already sleeping, sort of, though she says she was waiting up for him. She reports that she talked to dad and yes, Chucho was with him. MJ says dad has his issues, but he's been a good dad. He was just very affected by their mom dying and losing his job and yeah, he lacks character and likes a drink every once in a while, but it's not like he's a drunk or anything. Alex tells her she needs to rest and she agrees. He accidentally touches her shoulder, but she doesn't seem to mind. More nighty-night smoochies.

Alex goes into the bathroom, where all the great thinkers of our time go to ponder the ponderable. Alex undresses in front of the mirror while he wonders who he can trust.

Bruno pours a post-sex Katia some champers and explains he can't have a public relationship with her because Alex would use it against him. He tells her that he, Raquel, and Alex are all half-siblings. Why is Bruno wearing his scarf with no shirt? Katia says her brother is the same as Alex, just looking for a way to screw up her life. Bruno wants her to be his little office spy. He wants to know what Alex does and what gets said about him in the office. She agrees, after a lot of smooching and some toe sucking. These two are just gross. They get busy on the floor.

Vicky has a restless night's sleep. Are those sheets from Ikea? I'm sure Ikea doesn't also supply fantasy young guys to smooch on you. Vicky imagines Fernando doing all sorts of naughty things with his hands under the covers. Vicky and Fantasy!Fer get busy. She wakes up with the sheets all rumpled and gets all weepy as her theme sings to us that "cuando hay amor, no hay pecado" (when there's love, there's no sin), which she is obviously not believing at this stage of her life.

Katia comes home in a cab as Fernando watches. He goes downstairs to gripe her out for coming home late. Also, he drove by Maura's and the lights were all off, so he knows she wasn't there with Lisette like she said she would be. Busted! But also, if he's going to be running around verifying all her lies, it's Fantasy!Fernando that's going to have all the fun. Katia makes excuses--they went to a club, of course her hair and makeup are messed up, she was dancing. Oh, is that what the kids call it these days. Fer gives her the "I'm only doing this because I love you" speech and says that Lisette isn't good company for her because she's "ligera" (light, a light skirt, a slut). He reminds her that she's still a minor and he's responsible for her. I'm sure you can imagine the rest of the conversation. She thinks she's old enough to make her own decisions, blah, blah, blah, how come he gets to do whatever he wants. She calls Victoria a "ruca" (old lady) and a "saltacuñas" (cradle robber) and Fernando slaps her. Now comes the inevitable "I hate you" before Katia storms upstairs, leaving Fer feeling like a horrible person.

Paula gets MaryJo all propped up in bed with pillows. There are jokes about MJ getting used to this treatment. Paula is of course doing all this in a bid to stay longer. She brings MJ her breakfast on a tray. Alex comes in to say goodbye and tells MJ he'll be back later to take her for some tests. Paula begs Alex to let her stay longer, but Alex says there are servants to take care of MJ. Paula does some pleading about how she can be there for MJ all the time and Alex says she can stay a few more days. He leaves. Paula jumps into bed with MJ and starts eating her breakfast as they talk about what an awesome guy Alex is. MJ starts lecturing her about how she's supposed to go back home, so it's only for a few more days, etc. Paula starts feeding MJ her breakfast to shut her up.

Alex comes downstairs looking for Vicky. He runs into Felipa, who is taking Cuco to breakfast. He greets Vicky and says he hopes she's changed her mind about the suit, but she hasn't. Vicky has a question for him…a very personal question…she wants to know how he's sure the baby is his. Alex says because she said so and he's tired of doubting her. Vicky says he does need some proof, like, maybe, if MJ was a virgin…. Alex tells her that if this is about Bruno saying the baby might be his, that's only to get on Alex's nerves. Vicky claims it has nothing to do with that. Alex understands her doubts, but he wants her to understand that he loves MJ, he's never going to leave her no matter what anyone wants. Vicky guesses that by "anyone" he means Bruno.

Alex gets into his car as Felipa comes out with the phone, telling Vicky that Fernando is looking for her. Vicky tries to refuse the call, but Felipa says "She's saying she's not here, but she's standing right next to me." ha ha. Fernando tells Felipa to tell Vicky that they need to talk about the project and he has to go to the site, but if she isn't interested, he'll go alone. Felipa tries to guilt her, saying she wouldn't leave those indigenous people in the lurch just for a "berrinche" (tantrum), but Vicky says she just doesn't want to see Fer anymore, it's not good for either of them.

Mari keeps trying to explain to Katia how to organize paperwork. Katia claims not to understand a word and says she was out partying and is, like, super tired. Mari tells her to go get herself a coffee, but Katia gets Mari to bring her one. Once she's alone, she calls Lisette to ask Lisette to lie to Fernando for her because she was really out with Bruno. Lisette agrees, but only in exchange for all the dirty details.

Bruno meets with his lawyers. He tells them they're going ahead with contesting the will. He wants the judge informed and the DNA tests done and then he's sure the judge will speed up the process. The lawyers remind him that he has practically no chance of winning. But Bruno's logic is that in order to make his money, Antonio must have pissed off some people. So all he has to do is find some of them and get them to say that Antonio was bonkers. Riiiiight. And then in cross Alex's lawyers can bring up the fact that all these people saying Tony was crazy had been screwed over by him in one way or another. If the judge has at least half a brain cell and/or hasn't been bribed by Bruno, his little plan's not going to work. The lawyers don't seem to have a problem with it, though, but the one guy needs to know if Bruno has an absolutely clean record and no proof of anything he's done that would make him look less than honest. Bruno claims there's nothing…at least nothing that can be proven.

Raquel goes to the mall. She sends the chauffer to take her bags back to the car so she can meet up with Ulises. She tells him that Felipa only suspects, but if she tells Alex or her mom, they're going to have problems. Ulises suggests they stop seeing each other, but Raquel would rather get a divorce from Roberto. Ulises doesn't think that now, while they're fighting over her father's inheritance, is the best time to do that. Raquel suggests throwing Roberto out and announcing to the world that she and Uli are in luuuuuuurve. He doesn't like that plan either. He basically wants her to keep calm, stay out of the whole messy fight, and sure, they'll keep seeing each other in secret. She says she was thinking of getting him an apartment, which I'm sure thrills him to no end. Damn, Raquel is totally an unflushable. He is never getting rid of her.

Alex goes to Meche's house. She's thrilled to see him and says she's even lit a candle for him on her altar. Gabriel tells him they have no way to repay Alex for everything he's done. Alex tells them that a friend asked for a favor on their behalf--Pedro. Surely, she remembers him. He also happens to be the father of the girl who ran Gabriel over. She does a really crappy job of lying that she really doesn't remember the man. Gabriel does a really crappy job of supporting her in the lying. There's a lot of "I don't know" and "I don't remember." Alex asks if Meche has a job, but of course not. Alex asks her for a pen to write his address and phone number down so that if she wants to, she can talk to Ezequiel and let him know that Alex offered her a job. Gabriel looks like he's about to throw up.

Katia brings Fernando some papers to sign. He apologizes for smacking her last night, but makes excuses. She starts the argument again about how she's old enough, no you're not, blah, blah, blah. "No me late" (I don't like it). The end up making up and then Katia whines that the really don't know each other well and don’t spend enough time talking. He never talks about work and she'd like him to trust in her more. They hug and she leaves. Sucker! Poor guy, he's just trying to be a good brother, but he got stuck with that dimwit for a sister. He and MJ should get together and swap stories. She calls Bruno from the hallway to tell him that she convinced Fernando to tell all and she'll let him know as soon has she has some concrete information. Bruno says "I owe you a kiss, and when I see you, I'll give it to you anywhere you want." EW! Just had to translate that so everyone could share my pain.

Roberto invites Bruno out to the porch for a drink. Bruno starts chatting about how they're going to court and well, his mother left him no choice, etc. Roberto is very non-committal, which is noted by Bruno--"you never really declare for one side or the other, do you?" Boy, if you only knew the half of it. Roberto says it's their business and marrying Raquel was only an "accident of destiny." Bruno has actually heard that Roberto swings both ways, but Roberto says Bruno's not his type. Roberto hits back with "yeah, and I hear you like them young." Bruno wants to know where he got that info from, but Roberto evades and says Bruno had better be careful or he'll get slapped with a lawsuit. Bruno says he's not an idiot. Roberto agrees, saying Bruno doesn't do anything without a reason, so what is this conversation leading to? Bruno wants Roberto to help him "fregar"(screw over) Alex. Roberto tries to stay out of it, saying he figures Bruno has already done that, even gotten Alex to give over the presidency. But that wasn't official since Vicky won't agree to it. He needs Roberto to figure out if Vicky really is going out with Fernando or not. Roberto declines the offer. Bruno threatens him with taking away the monthly allowance and the company shares once he's in charge. Screw that! I say go to Alex. There's nothing stopping Bruno from leaving them penniless even if Roberto does agree to spy for him.

Meche is afraid to take a job with Alex. Gabriel reminds her that Pedro is gone and Chucho already knows how things are. She wants to go to her comadre for advice, but Gabriel reminds her that her comadre's husband is Erick's cousin and Erick works for that guy they took the money from, and surely the news that this man came to visit will get back to him. He advises her to take the job without telling anyone and he'll just figure out a way to get himself to physical therapy without Meche.

MaryJo and Alex talk to Hernán at his office. He says MaryJo and the baby are both doing fine and she's just going into her 12th week of pregnancy. MaryJo wants to know when they can do a paternity test. She's had it with everyone doubting her and she wants to put the rumors to rest. Alex is not happy with the idea. Hernán says they can do it between the 13th and 14th week. Alex and MJ argue about it. Hernán says there is a risk of infection that could end up killing the baby, even if it doesn't happen very often. MaryJo gives up on the idea.

In the car, Alex tells her he's happy that Hernán talked her out of it. It gets hard to hear with all the wind. MJ says she's tired of the doubts. She may not be refined and elegant, but she's a decent person. If she's made mistakes it was only to protect…herself? Alex? (protegerme and protegerte sound almost the same with the top down and the closed captions claim she's saying "uuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrggggggggg") Alex wants her to promise something, for realz this time, that if anything happens with her dad or Paula he wants her to tell him. She swears she will.

Pedro and Chucho are being driven back to Merida by a nice young man in a red truck. They stop by the side of the rode so that Pedro and Chucho can stretch their legs and the driver can readjust the tarp covering whatever's in the back of the truck. He hears them debating where they should look for a place to live and suggests that they look into staying at a place his aunt has. He's not sure if the rent would be too expensive for them since he doesn't know how much they have to spend. Chucho likes the idea. They get back on the road.

Vicky is happy to see Alex and MJ and happy to hear that MJ and the baby are both fine. Alex sends her upstairs to rest and says he doesn't want her exerting herself anymore. In fact, he's going to carry her up the stairs. MJ laughs even as she's saying "my wound! It hurts!" Felipa comments to Cuco that love sure is grand, but she hasn't had a guy in so long, she can barely remember. Vicky leaves, looking a little grumpy if I'm not mistaken.

They're still laughing when they get upstairs. Alex keeps walking her back and forth between the couch and the bed until she agrees to sitting on the couch. He says he had to prove to her that he's a strong man. She says she's not exactly weak herself. Alex wants to talk baby names. Antonio for a boy and maybe Maria Jose for a girl? MJ suggests her mother's name, Elena. Alex asks about her. MJ doesn't really remember, since she "died" when MJ was 3. She remembers baby Paula and that maybe there was another little girl, too. She doesn't know what her mother died of. She asked her dad, but he just said "she was sick." She and Paula realized that Pedro didn't want to talk about it, so they didn't keep asking. Alex says he never met his mom since she died giving birth to him, but Vicky has been his mom since he was two. "And now we're going to be parents," he says. I know he means that in a "woo hoo!" kind of way, but it almost sounds ominous to me. I mean, look at the screw ups who raised the two of them. He says he doesn't just want to have one kid…maybe more like four or five. MJ asks if they're going to have to start a school, but Alex says they'd need at least 10 kids for that. "I love you"-s are exchanged.

Chucho and Pedro check out the driver's aunt's place. It's not great, but it's big. There are concerns that there's a lot of humidity in the walls and so painting it would be a waste. Pedro keeps harping on needing sealant, which will be expensive. Ultimately, it's Chucho's money, so it's up to Chucho. Chucho says to leave the painting to him. He asks to speak to the guy's aunt about the price. Chucho says he knows Pedro doesn't like the place. Pedro is worried about what Paula will think. Chucho laughs that Paula will have "cara de fuchi" (a face like she just smelled a fart). Pedro worries she'll try to stay at Alex's place. Chucho sagely says that "a los muertos y los arrimados, a tres dias se huelen" (the dead and the freeloaders start smelling after three days) so he doesn't think Alex will keep Paula around. Pedro says they need to fix up the place so it won't be too hard on Paula.

Maura is teasing Ulises about being with Raquel. Ulises is already regretting it. He says Raquel is "loca de remate" (completely? nuts). She wants to be with him all the time and gets mad when he turns her down. Poor Roberto, says Maura, for putting up with her all the time. Sounds like Lisette thinks Roberto's a quality guy. Katia comes in, straight from "work." Maura compliments her on her outfit (a sheer white shirt, denim short shorts, nude hose, and red wedge heels). Katia eats it up. She and Lisette leave together. Maura is sure she's still doing Bruno. Ulises says when Fer finds out, he'll kill Bruno. Maura hopes so, and sees this as the answer to their problems.

Vicky is happy to see Alex so happy. He's excited about the baby. He tells her that MJ asked for a paternity test, which makes Vicky happy, but Alex opposed it because of the risks. He says he's sure he's the father. Vicky agrees and doesn't think MJ would have asked for the test otherwise. As far as she's concerned, asking for the test proves it. I'll let that slide this time only because it's true, but usually it's a ploy in TN world and either means you know the other person won't call your bluff or you've bribed the doctor to fake the results. Vicky must not watch TN's. Alex tells her that her acceptance is important to MJ and he wants her to get closer to MJ and not keep judging her based on what her family has done or based on the intrigues of others. Vicky agrees that she of all people should know that. She's going to give it a try. She asks about Bruno. Alex says they're in the process of getting the DNA test to prove that Antonio was his father. Alex thinks there's still time to stop all this by giving Bruno what he wants. Vicky refuses because it's not what Tony and because it's not fair. Not. Fair.

Thus endeth our tale for tonight, er, last night. And tonight: well, not exactly sure. Vague rumblings about how Bruno must be stopped and Alex has to act fast. I believe I also saw Alex ripping a check out of his checkbook in front of MJ and her getting that sick "oh no, not again" look.

Labels: sortilegio

Okey dokey, folks, due to the schedule cramming tonight we jump right into the middle of a scene, mid-sentence, with no credits or anything. Fortunately, it seems we haven’t missed anything.

Orlando is telling Camila that due to his insecurities, she needs to decide right now whether she wants him, all or nothing, because really everything is about him and the fact that she has a million other concerns at the moment and probably hasn’t slept much in weeks doesn’t matter. Camila must have just given up on life, though, because she says she wants him. She doesn’t look too enthusiastic but emotionally blind Orly doesn’t notice.

Germán sits in his office, incriminating important shady papers in hand, and tells Carlota via telephone that the big important papers haven’t arrived yet. She throws a little fit and he promises her that she will have them by the following week, and if they haven’t come by Monday or Tuesday he will go to México City and fetch them himself. She claims if he delivers she will trust him unconditionally.

Padre Juan/Cris fidgets nervously on Natalia’s sofa and takes awhile telling her he needs to discuss something confidentially. Nat, unlike Carlota, does not get treated to a PJC striptease. Finally he asks about Sagrario, back around the time Paloma was born. Does Nat remember her pregnancy? Natalia tells him that Sagrario had trouble conceiving and had had many unsuccessful fertility treatments, so she was surprised when Sagrario called and told her that they were staying in Real del Monte because they were going to have a baby. However, Nat didn’t see her pregnant, as Nat was still in the D.F. and Sagrario and Javier had moved away. They went for Javier’s father’s funeral and never came back. Cris thinks to himself that it’s true; Paloma is Macarena’s daughter and was handed over because Mac was abandoned, either by him or by that other dude.

Emiliano asks Germs again about his history with Romina, and he wants a specific and detailed answer. Germy tells him again it was just the one time, nothing more, for realsies. Emo is a chip off the old bio-dad and doesn’t notice that Germs is twitching and averting his eyes as he promises there was nothing more. They discuss how much they’ve missed their friendship and that they had agreed to be each others’ wedding witnesses, and kiss and make up. Oh, this isn’t that kind of show. They hug in a heteromanly fashion and make up.

The new art teacher who is not Clara tells Paloma that the art exhibition starts on Saturday, and she’ll need to go to Pachuca to get her paintings set up. Paloma is thrilled to have a pretext to avoid the wedding.

Cris goes to Misery Manor and asks for Rufi, thinking she may have returned. Carlota slyly shows him all the way into the parlor before telling him Rufi isn’t there. She tells him not to keep wasting time on his base passions for a dead woman. He says his passions now lie in more godly pursuits, but he still wants to know the truth. Carloca taunts him, saying she knows he’s still carrying on with Natalia. Not so, says he. Then she makes her daily attempt to seduce him. He barely even reacts this time, he’s getting so used to this. He shows himself out.

Orlando bounds into the office and announces to Angélica that Camila has finally succumbed to his brainwashing and pressure, oops, I mean has agreed of her own free will and with no conflict and much happiness to marry him. Ange congratulates him and hugs him while looking sad. She says she’ll be leaving town soon. He says he still needs her. Ange says Vero must be about ready to come back. I doubt it, because she was only a few months along in her pregnancy several months ago, so even if she does have a few weeks available to work she’ll probably be wanting a maternity leave soon. Orly begs her to stay.

Monica is not too happy to hear that Camila has agreed to marry Orlando. She says Cami was pressured too much and should give it more time and give Rafael a chance to escape Diana’s clutches. Cami says there are no guarantees anything will last forever, so what the heck, she’ll take the risk and marry Orlando. Now that is romantic.

Romina calls Emiliano at work to bug him about wedding details. Invitations. “What else?” he asks brusquely. She needs the original and a copy of his birth certificate. “Fine, what else?” Orlando has offered to buy them a house; isn’t it thrilling?! Emiliano is looking more and more fed up with every word she says. She wants to go pick a fabulous house, but he thinks it’s awkward because they don’t know how much Orlando wants to spend, etc. Emo thinks they should just let Orlando pick the place. Romi doesn’t like that. He hangs up on her.

Paloma is sweeping and Carlota is washing dishes. Obviously this will not do. Carlota says she’s ordered up a new scullery maid. Paloma wants her to make it clear that the job is only for a few days, because surely Rufi is coming back; she wouldn’t dare not. Carlota seems to think otherwise, and accuses Paloma of being just like her mother, always thinking of others, as though that is about the nastiest trait imaginable.

Carloca says she hopes Paloma will come to see her as a mother, even though she’s direct and rude. “For our first mother-daughter outing, we will go ice skating in Hell,” says Paloma’s face. Cruel claims that she is nasty because her parents were very strict with her (so she wants Paloma to turn out the same way?), but her fondest wish is to have a warm loving relationship with Paloma. Paloma is suddenly very interested in her sweeping.

Padre Cris chats with Gabriel, who is busy restoring church artwork. Cris asks if the bishop has been around yet. Gabriel says no, but he’s expected later. Cris says he’s been wanting to talk with him for awhile, but with one thing and another he hasn’t been able to see him. “Oh, the same way I’ve been hoping to see my Mystery Girl,” Gabe awkwardly parallels. He’s willing to wait as long as it takes to find her, though.

Camila asks Paloma to not be a stranger and continue to visit her, even though Romina won’t be there. Paloma says she’ll visit when she can, but she’s moving to México City with Rufi and Dr. Bermúdez. She just has to get away, even though she’ll miss almost everyone. “It’s because of Emiliano, right?” asks Camila. Romina barges in and hassles both of them and drags Paloma away to her bedroom. Camila looks like she’s about to go postal.

Emiliano tells Orlando he has no interest in looking at houses; whatever he picks is fine. Orlando decides to take Romina instead. Then he tells Emo that if he doesn’t change his attitude, he will be living in hell. “I already am,” replies Emo.

Paloma tells Romina she won’t be able to attend the wedding because she has to go to her art show. Romememena is incensed. Paloma finally admits she doesn’t want to go watch Romina marry the man Paloma loves. Romina throws a fit and accuses Paloma of being a liar and traitor. Paloma says Romina is a nutcase, threatening suicide and claiming she can’t live without Emiliano’s love when she was tangoing with Germy the whole time. Romi still claims that isn’t true, and no one has ever had such a great love as the epic love of Romina and Emiliano. Paloma says she knows that isn’t true, since she has been his novia in secret for quite some time. I would add that there’s also the way he quite publicly admits he can’t stand Romina and doesn’t want to marry her…that often does not indicate deep and abiding lurve.

Camila is in the church, praying for enlightenment. She doesn’t want to make a huge mistake, but feels lost without her normal wits or her friend Mac’s counsel.

Romememena is outraged that Paloma dared to fall in love with Emiliano, after Romi saw him first. “Well, anyway, I guess our friendship is over, and I’m leaving town and we’ll probably never see each other again, but I’ll always love you and I hope you’ll be very happy,” Paloma tells her. Needless to say, there are buckets of tears gushing here. She hugs Romina and leaves and Romina actually looks very genuinely upset that she is losing her friend.

Cris sees Camila in the chapel and asks her to help him with something, since she was so close to Macarena. Camila agrees. Better not let Carloca see Cris holding her arm as they walk away…scandal!

Padre Benito is at the church office in Pachuca, trying to get the appointment-making priest guy to get him in to see the bishop when he returns. Other Priest says Obispo Calixto isn’t back yet, but will probably be very busy when he does finally arrive. No kidding; is he taking the slow boat or what? PB says it’s a delicate matter, the possibility of Cris having a daughter, and he doesn’t think they can trust the woman’s confession since she is a known liar and has been tormenting Cris for years. Wait, so they can discuss confessions in roundabout terms? I did not think so. Anyway, Other Priest says he thinks Padre Benito should talk to Cris and investigate himself, and draw his own conclusions.

Camila tells Cris that she doesn’t know all the details of Mac’s life, but she is quite sure that Mac was never in love with any man other than him. He is quite pleased to hear that. Cami remembers that Mac had mentioned that there was some secret between her and Carlota, something that could free her and Paloma from Carlota’s yoke (yugo), but she never found out what it was.

Rufi is in some hotel room somewhere with Jennifer. Jenny says she’ll call the hospital and find out when they can visit Grandpa, but it’s late so it probably won’t be tonight.

At school, Liliana tells Paloma she’s doing the right thing, avoiding the wedding and everything. Romina just threw a fit because she is jealous that Emiliano is in love with Paloma. Paloma says it doesn’t matter, he’s marrying Romi and they’re having a baby; moral victories don’t count.

Romina whines to her mother about that jerk Paloma who dared to admit she was in love with the groom. However, Romi is sure the baby will change everything and he will fall in love with her. Cami is all eye-rolly and says Romina already knows what she thinks about all this. Romina retorts that Camila agreed to marry Orlando and she doesn’t believe that she’s in love with him; what’s the difference? (Let me count the ways…infidelity, suicide threats, drugging, faked paternity test, selfishness, strong-arming, what am I forgetting?)

The doorbell rings and Romina goes to answer it, hoping it’s a present arriving. It’s Orlando, wanting to take them house-shopping. Romina is thrilled. They go to get their purses and Romina nudge-winks Camila, saying maybe Orlando is quite a catch after all. Camila already has a house, so I’m not sure she’s so easily convinced.

Diana and Rafael have a screaming divorce fight. Di says she’ll only agree to a divorce if there’s a clause that says Rafael can never marry again. He says she’s gone crazy. GONE?! She started out crazy, then kicked it up a notch. He says he will get his divorce, and it will include no considerations for her.

Turns out Rufi and Jenny are in Matamoros, Tamaulipas. Jenny returns to the hotel room with a shopping bag and says they have an appointment to see Grandpa, but he had one wish. He wants Rufi to wear the long white dress when she comes to see him. “How can I go out in this?” Rufi asks. Jenny doesn’t think Rufi should deny him his last wish.

Padres Benito and JuanCris discuss the possibility that Paloma may be Cris’s daughter. Cris tells Benito the story of the other guy that he heard from Carlota and which Paloma evidently believes, but he doesn’t think it’s true.

Carlota micromanages the dusting that Felipa, the new housekeeper, is doing. She says eventually she’ll have her trained right. Felipa is surprised and says she thought this was only for a few days, until Rufi returns. Carlota claims she would never fire Rufi (forgetting that she already did once), but life takes surprising twists and Rufi may not come back after all. Okay, creepazoid.

Padre Benito and Padre Cris continue discussing the characters of Macarena and Carlota, and who could have done what or lied about what else. Padre Benito says what Cris needs to do is find the supposed other father (dad, not priest, though we’ve got a surfeit of each in this show) and find out what his story is. Ummm, guys, this is a question science could answer with much more certainty.

Avances: Liliana, on Paloma’s behalf, is not giving up yet. She has a serious chat with Emiliano. He decides he isn’t giving up either.

Labels: amor

Well, another great night of hijinks, 80-mile an hour conversations, good laughs, a few smiles and a wince or two. Our layabout Beto showed he can be high energy and amazingly persistent when it comes to protecting his own. And our lovely Ximena and Estrella both came a-cropper in their romantic pursuits...but looked divine doing it. Jackie put Jerry to the ultimate man-test ("Can-you-afford-me?") but he failed miserably. And Rolu is now on our all-world, non-rotating, absolute eternal sh*t list for breaking Ximena's heart (and enjoying it, the swine). But other than that, not much happened.

Ah c'mon, you know I'll tell you more than that. Here's how it went. First a brief review of pathetic would-be seducer Jeronimo snatching the crumbs off Jackie's plate while she slyly beckons the waiter to take it away. But wait, while they're at the mall, let's go shopping! Jerry looks like he's the one with morning sickness.

And Beto and Connie are engaged in the first of many discussions over the planned abortion when Mauricio comes back to fetch Dany's backpack and demands to know why Beto's there. Our barrio boy comes up with a weak story about stopping by to get permission to get off work this morning. He needs extra practice so he can deal with that new pipsqueak (cabeza de pepita) luchador. No. You can't go. If you do, you're fired. Train on your lunch hour or not at all. Well, the boss is always right, no? mutters Beto. Have a verrrrrry nice day, coos Connie to Mauricio and Mau coos back... may yours be lousy. Whoa! That got a smile from Beto, but for the most part, our layabout was intense and serious throughout all the episode.

And equally serious is our Estrellita, all dolled up and ready to tuck herself into the Furia's hip pocket until Don Cesar tosses her out of the gym. Well, can't blame him. Every male within 10 kilometers appears to be buzzing 'round our little star and he can't have that in his gym. If she absolutely has to make a play for the new luchador, let her do it outside. "Esta muñeca ya tiene dueño" (This doll's already taken) she huskily tells the drooling assemblage and off she flounces, as only Estrella can. After she leaves, Cesar admonishes Monita...Please don't bring her to the gym, at least not dressed like that. Moni just smiles and goes back to punching the bag.

Connie and Beto are still going at it hammer and tongs. Don't do it. It's my choice and I will. Repeat these two lines a zillion times and you have half the episode. Still they play their parts well. Beto hops in the car when she insists on going to the hospital. You'll lose your job, she threatens. So what! snarls Beto. The fight continues although both carefully fasten their seat belts. ( Thanks for the PSA folks. In Columbus, we just had a lovely young high school couple die this weekend because their seat belts weren't fastened.)

Okay. Back to Estrella's seduction attempt. Our Masked Man arrives on his motorcycle and she goes right to work, telling him how great he looks and moving into his personal space, waaaaay in. He nearly blows his cover but saying he knows she's an actress. But he smooths it over by saying Cesar told him. Well, baby, don't ask Cesar. Ask me. I can tell you so much more, she purrs, moving in again and kissing him on his masked cheek. Let's have coffee afterwards, okay?

Poor Mau stumbles in the gym, and there's smiling Monita, pleading Estrella's cause as well. I know she seems half-crazy, but really she's pure gold, Moni wheedles, and she's crazy about you. Mau, who's not swift enough to get out of these tight places himself, asks for Cesar's aid. I'm in a real "quilombo" (mess) he pleads. "Lio de faldas" (woman trouble), right? mutters Cesar, don't worry, I'll take care of it.

After the ads, we come back to more woman trouble, of the" señorita enfermera" kind. Ximena is hovering anxiously by Rolu's bed as our sexy nurses ministers to his every whim. Xime doesn't know why they need a nurse, she can take care of him. Sweetie, smiles Rolu, She's trained. You're not. And you look overwhelmed and tired. I want you to have some fun. Relax. Go shopping with Lalo, or go see your friends, he nobly suggests. I'm "muy bien atendido" (very well taken care of....) Well, I am dying to see Estrella, she admits. And with a fast zip up of the nursey's open uniform, our little gal exits. And the zipper comes right back down. Oh no. Oh dear. Oh crap.

The Beto/Constancia struggle continues. His lines. Her lines. Doctor arrives. Beto bleats some more. Connie elbows him in the chest and exits with the doctor.

Mientras tanto, Jackie is effectively emasculating Jeronimo. Dangling an expensive diamond necklace before him, she suggests this would be a nice way of showing a woman the depth and breadth of your affection. Jerry thinks the price is a little high. This isn't a roadside stall where you haggle, she sniffs, and I thought you said you weren't "tacaño" (cheap). Well, just now my credit cards are "al tope" (maxed out), stammers Jerry. But you're a millionaire like Mau. Actually I have to split my salary 50-50 with Oscar, he admits, but I WILL get all Mau's money, I promise. No you won't, she cuts him off. My daughter will get it. And suddenly Jackie has urgent business elsewhere.

Now Connie's in her hospital gown, all prepped for surgery, clutching a magazine in her hands while the "no lo hagas" "si, lo hago" battle continues. Beto flings himself in the wheelchair meant for her. The doc and his assistant bust him out of the chair and he then flings himself against the door. Only Connie threatening to call Monita gets him to step aside. Wow, who is this Monita? mutters the doctor, impressed with the power of the threat. They manage to get her to surgery but Beto still has his nose pressed against the closing door. NO LO HAGAS!!...NO LO HAGAS!!....

Let's break for a little girl talk. Ximena is unburdening herself of three things: 1) married life is demanding and sometimes overwhelming (amen sistah) 2) but my husband doesn't object to my going out and seeing friends (not today anyway) and 3) Oh, Estrella, I've been dying to see you!
And Estrella is dying to talk about her new Masked Fury crush. Ooooh, you remind me of me! shrieks Ximena...at least of me the way I used to be, she adds wistfully. Our relationship has cooled off since the wedding, she continues. Well, even before the wedding. So Estrella, as an experienced woman, I need some tips for the art of seduction.

The upshot of all this is that Ximena will tame down Estrella's look so she doesn't appear so "facilonga" (easy and cheap) and in turn Xime will jack up her own appearance so she fits in the can't-miss-vixen category. Deal? Deal.

Back to Beto. He crashes into the room clothed in a surgical gown and the righteous robe of a husband who refuses to let his wife abort their child. First he flings himself on top of Connie. Then when security is called, he fends off the two goons, races around the room, hurls equipment hither and yon, and in short, brings about total and complete chaos, screaming I love you! Don't do it! all the while. Whadda guy.

We catch our collective breath during the ads and come back to girl time. Shopping. Sleek and sophisticated for Estrella. Swishy for Ximena. Facial masks. Hairdo's (straightening for Estrella, wild and free for Xime). Make-up. Muted lips for our actress, bright red and moist for Ximena.

Seduction attempt no. 1 about to start. Estrella slinks into the gym, looking classy but sexy and the luchadores are baying at the moon all over again. Even Don Cesar is impressed by the new look, to Nieves' annoyance. She may look decent on the outside, but it's the same old slut on the inside, she snaps. Estrella, undeterred, is ready to vamp off with our masked galan when Cesar saves the day by suggesting they ALL go out for some tacos. That takes all the twinkle out of our little star, but she bravely soldiers on.

As does Ximena, arriving at the apartment in full fantasy seduction no. 2 mode. She's halfway there, all by herself, humming" seducción, seducción...yeah, baby, oh ohoh..." and slinking up the stairs. Let the games begin.

Oops. Seems like they started without her. Sexy enfermera, clearly unzipped, is in bed with Rolu. What medical procedure is this? Even Ximena not fooled. " Auch!" she wails, "qué onda?" Indeed.

Let's leave this painful scene for another: the continuing War of the Roses between Beto and Connie. She's in full fury mode, having had to delay the abortion, and paying for a boatload of equipment damaged by our rampaging sperm-donor. She delivers an impassioned purse whipping , all the while berating him for interfering with all her hard work to land Mauricio. And for what!? So she can live a life of misery and limitation with Beto!? I can give you more, he argues. I can teach you to fight. I can be there for my child, unlike my father who was never there for me. A child can change our lives. And I love you. I love you like no one else could. And I know you love me. Connie says nothing. But she looks troubled. Is there hope for our cold-hearted, calculating wench? Stay tuned.

Back to the bedroom of betrayal. Rolu's doing the time-honored "are you gonna believe me or your lyin' eyes" bit. What nurse? he asks. She left hours ago. The moving mass under the covers begs otherwise. I'm suffocating, sniffs our nurse. Rolu is still maintaining that Xime's hallucinating, when our señorita hops out, heads for the wrong door (That's the bathroom! shrieks Xime)" and...you're fired!" Exit the nurse.

Moving on. Why cling to the past? continues Rolu smoothly. Live in the present. Get over yourself. And give me a little space will you? I'm exhausted. You're draining me drop by drop. Poor defeated and thoroughly bamboozled Ximena leaves. And Rolu grins gleefully. String him up by his manly parts! This macho creep is dead to us!

Constancia is also pleading for a little alone time. She wants Beto to vamoose and give her some time to think. Well, here's the deal, he retorts. If you get rid of the baby, you will lose me forever. Even though I love you and want to eat you up with kisses (she looks wistful), we're finished if you have end this pregnancy. Don't dramatize, she counters, I'm going to take care of my body and MY business. Monita was right, he finishes. You don't love me or anybody. And sooner or later you destroy us all. Exit Beto.

Another recovery period during the ads, all encouraging us to have that perfect Christmas with gifts galore at the lowest possible prices evah!

And we return to the restaurant where a masked Mau, a snippy Nieves, a crestfallen Estrella and a bemused Cesar and Monita are all having a not-so-great time. Mau doesn't want to eat 'cause he'd had to take off his mask. Estrella and Nieves plead for him to do just that. Cesar saves the day again by saying the new luchador has to keep his identity secret. Well, Nieves is riled up with him, masked or no, after that whipping he gave her little criatura. Furia excuses himself, while Nieves sneers that he must think he's a saint off to save the world. Enough! snaps Cesar. And Monita watches him go with a look and a smile that seems to say she's smitten with the new mystery man. Estrella sarcastically thanks everyone for messing up her first date and Nieves concludes by saying "he's hiding something". " Yeah, his face", quips Cesar.

More ads. The breaks come more and more frequently as this goes along. Have you noticed? More Christmas pornography for shopaholics.

And then we come back to sweet Aldo and Katja, scheming on how to find the goods on Beto and Constancia. They decide to go down to the barrio and enlist Ivan's help. Luisa shows up and enthusiastically joins the group. Protective big bro' Aldo is not pleased.

Connie's quest for alone time has come a-cropper again. This time Mom Jackie is on her case. Mom's lines. Connie's lines. Why waste the best years of your life with a man who doesn't love you? Then a new take. Why don't you want to be happy? Let's go to Europe together. You can have the baby. And after that I'll introduce you to my friends. The right sort. Good-looking. Rich. Divorce Mauricio and take all his money, Jackie concludes. And who comes in at just that moment? Mauricio. End of episode.

Previews:
Mauricio agrees to the divorce. She can have his money. All he needs is Monita. But wait! Connie is still scheming. I'll give you a divorce, she sniffles, but give me one night together. Make love to me and leave me with a memory. Uh oh...you know where this is leading.

Vocabulary:
cabeza de pepita = lit. seed head. fig. pipsqueak
esta muñeca ya tiene dueño = this doll's taken
lio de faldas = lit. skirt trouble fig. woman trouble
quilombo = mess (also whorehouse, but not in this context)
muy bien atendido = very well taken care of (and how! Rolu, you swine)
tacaño= cheap
precios fijos = set prices, not subject to haggling
al tope =to the limit, to the brim, "maxed out"
facilonga = easy, cheap, a pushover

Dicho of the Day

Ser la gota que derramó el vaso = to be the last straw
I picked this because I hope that dreadful bedroom scene was the last straw for Ximena and she throws the bum out. We shall see.

Labels: gancho