Caray, Caray!

Carlota goes to what she thinks is going to be a lovefest with Cristobal, only to find that the actor she hired to play Paloma’s father is there too--Cris wants to know why she lied that this guy Basilio was Pal’s father, when he knows that he (Cris) is the father. She insists he’s not the father, but he says he doesn’t need any other proof--with what he feels for Pal, the great love he had with Macarena, and this (he throws some papers at her), this is more than enough. The papers contain the info Carlota sent to Basilio so he could play Pal’s papa and make Mac out to be a tramp. Of course, she denies any involvement and says he can’t prove anything. “But Basilio can.” So Basilio starts to sing like a canary--everything he did was on her instructions. Carlotta-loca slaps him. Cris yells at her that she’s really perverse--doesn't it hurt you to make others suffer because of your damn cruelty? Carlota plays the victim and tries to make up a story about Basilio coming to her and saying he was in love with Mac and was Pal’s pops. Basilio declares that he doesn’t know no Macarena.

Cris sends Basilio to the other room. “Now what do you have to say for yourself?” Carlota finally admits that she hired the guy, but it doesn’t mean Cris is the father. Cris tells her to stop lying and that he will do a DNA test if he has to. But he is positive that Pal is his daughter, the daughter of the great love that “YOUR SISTER [dramatic pause] and I had, that you’ve never had for anyone.” Carlota tries to shove him and insists that her love for him is the biggest in the world. Cris yells “no, yours is everything BUT love. Love is light and mercy but you don’t know anything about that.” He proceeds to cue up an anvil drop by swearing that he’s going to rescue Pal from Carlota’s hate, at the cost of his own life if necessary.

Liliana and Pal chat at a cafe about Gabriel and Emiliano. Lili sees Gabe as an angel in Pal’s life. But boo-hoo, Pal won’t ever be able to forget Emil. Then we hear Emil say “and I’ll never forget you”--he’s standing right behind her. Pal flees the table.

Eugenio is in the other room with Basilio, reading him the riot act for colluding with La Loca.

Carlota thinks that Cris won’t be able to win Pal’s love, and, like the Purple Queen of Hypocrisy that she is, warns him to be careful about telling Pal the truth lest Pal get hurt again. They get into a heated argument with Carlota claiming that everything Pal is (her name, her education, her values) is because of her, and Cris saying it’s because of Mac. Carlota counters that Pal is a child of sin, but Cris comes right back with “she’s a child of love”, and if he has to renounce the priesthood for her, he will. He’s sure that one day Pal will be proud of having united her mother and father. Carlota tries to plant doubts in Cris’s mind by commenting that Mac must not have thought the same way, since she didn’t tell Cris the truth about Pal. He yells that Mac was going to tell him, he’s sure that was going to be her wedding gift to him, because she had spoken to him of a surprise. She tells him he’s stupid and he reiterates what a rotten, low-down dirty creep she is. He doesn’t want to see her ever again--GET OUT! After she leaves he thanks God for the gift of his marvelous daughter.

Pal pouts to Rufi about Emil. Rufi suggests that maybe they’ll get back together after being apart for awhile, like with her and Edmundo. Talk turns to Mexico City and how Pal wants to be someone in life. Rufi mentions Gabe and Pal admits she’s glad about him coming to the city; at his side she doesn’t feel alone. Rufi thinks she should invite Romi and Emil to her birthday/going-away party, but Pal doesn’t think it’s a good idea.

Lili asks Emil why he’s moping. Well, DUH, I wonder why. Blah blah blah Paloma blah blah blah. He informs Lili that he’s going to do the DNA test again. She doesn’t doubt that Romi altered the results. She promises not to tell anyone but thinks he better hurry, since Pal is leaving town soon.

Cris tells Eugenio about signals he got re: Pal being his daughter, but he didn’t know how to see them. He recounts a discussion he had with Pal after Mac had died--flashback of her holding Mac’s necklace and explaining that her father gave it to her mother; Mac had told her the pearl necklace was from the man she loved, so Pal was certain it had to be from her father. Cris feels bad about believing Carlota’s lies about Mac having another man. Eugenio thinks Cris is being too hard on himself; anyone would fall in her trap. Yikes, sounds like another anvil to me. Eug recommends that Cris not rush into telling Pal he’s her father; he should think things through carefully.

Carlota tells herself she’s going to make Pal hate Cris forever. You’re not going to beat me, Cristobal.

Rufi tries to talk some sense into Pal. You’ve forgiven Romi, Emil, Mac--everyone except Cris. Talk to him before you leave town. Pal promises to think about it.

Dario shows up at Angelica’s office and actually has the nerve to ask her to help him and recant her accusation of plagiarism so that he can continue his fake career. She refuses and yells at him to get lost, and even slaps him a couple times (after he asks if she’s getting it on with Orlando and tries to grab her). After he leaves she exclaims, “Yes, I could” (stand up to him, I guess), as if to say “I did it!”

Carlota comes home in a tizzy and demands to know Pal’s whereabouts; Rufi explains that Pal went to give Gabe some cookies as thanks for the computer. Carlota accuses Rufi of telling Cris that Pal is his daughter. Rufi says she didn’t break her promise to Mac to keep quiet, but maybe she gave Cris a little hint. Since Cris isn’t a priest anymore, there’s no reason to keep hiding it, is there? Carlota thinks Rufi better give Cris the hint that if he gets near Pal, she’ll kill him.

Pal asks Gabe’s opinion on Rufi’s suggestion that she invite Emil and Romi to the party. Gabe says something like she should invite Emil because it comes from the heart, not because someone tells her to. It’s important to have closure . . . but does she really want that, or does she want Emil at the party to leave open the possibility of something between them and before she leaves?

Romi whines on the phone to Emil for the millionth time that she misses him and wants him to come back; he sighs heavily that “it’s not you, it’s me.” He repeats for the millionth time that he doesn’t love her. After he tells her not to call anymore and hangs up on her, he tells himself he’s not going to allow her to blackmail him again. “Maybe there is still a possibility for me and Pal.”

Pal adds Emil and Romi to her list of guests but then crosses them off (I think--bad camera angle). In his room, Gabe suddenly has another episode and falls and nearly passes out but is able to take one of his pills in time. Pal hears him fall and comes running. He convinces her that he was just dizzy. She gets stuff to treat his wound.

Anamar visits Emil to declare that she still loves him. She knows he’s going to get a divorce and is in love with someone who’s leaving town, but she’s going to stay in Real del Monte, find a job, etc. She wants him to give her a chance and she’s willing to wait.

Eugenio returns to Gabe’s place and, when he sees what happened, asks Gabe if he took his you-know-whats and Gabe cuts him off with a quick “yes.” The significance of this little exchange goes unnoticed by Pal. Eugenio then insists on accompanying Pal home. After Pal leaves the room, Eug looks a little mad and asks Gabe if he’s really ok. Yes dad, don’t worry. Once he’s alone, he says “It’s going to be so hard to leave you” and takes out some paper and starts writing (or drawing?).

Cris and Padres Benito and Mateo discuss Carlota’s evilness--she's the devil incarnate. Padre B believes Carlota knows perfectly well the harm that she causes. And now that she herself has confessed to you (Cris), I can reveal that she confessed to me--when she learned you might leave to become a bishop she came into the confessional and told me everything. Padre M asks if Cris is going to return to the priesthood, but Cris doesn’t know what he’s going to do. Padre B advises him to take the path that will allow him to protect Paloma and get her away from that ridiculous nutjob.

Pal arrives home and gets yelled at (and nearly smacked) by a flailing, Looney Tunes (no pun intended) Tasmanian devil-esque Carlota (a Carlotian devil?) until Eugenio says “she was with me”. He and Carlota chit chat about Pal being a lovely girl or something like that. Rufi and Pal leave. Carlota asks about Gabe but Eugenio says he was just dizzy. She invites him in but he wants to make sure Gabe is ok. But he says he’ll see her tomorrow, unless she wants to cancel their meeting. Oh no, of course not, I think it’s important that we talk. He thinks one day she’ll forgive him for being sure that Cris was innocent; she says why don’t you ask if one day you will forgive yourself for having let him go free?

Luz is making plans about bringing Xochitl home but Rafael reminds her that they don’t know yet if they’ll get her. She feels Xochitl was destined for her. She talks about how she can’t sit home doing nothing; Rafa mentions working at his office but Luz thinks one of his associates wouldn’t appreciate that. Besides, they should each have their own space, their own world. She has decided what hers is, but won’t tell him what it is yet.

Orlando relays some news to Camila that he got from Angelica--first, that the baby is going home soon; second, that Mr. Gibson in Houston wants to talk to him in person. He suggests they go home for a couple days, then go to Houston for a couple more days and from there continue their honeymoon in Europe. She thinks it’s a great idea.

Carlota yells at Pal some more for coming home late. She’s worried about Pal because there are people who want to belittle her in front of Pal. She claims that Cris threatened to disparage her if she doesn’t convince Pal to forgive him. Pal’s response is, I don’t know what the deal is between you two, but it doesn’t interest me in the least, and I’m not going to listen to anything from either him or you. Nighty-night.

Carlota storms into her room and starts looking through her drawers for something. She takes a box down from the top of the bureau and looks inside. She seems to find what she was searching for and sighs in relief; then she contorts into another one of her self-satisfied smirks with glowing eyes.

Avances: Romi and German fool around some more; Cris meets with Dr. B.

Labels: amor

From yesterday: Chavez convinces Marco to come to his party where there will be many lovely “Viejas”. He doesn’t have to twist his arm. Susana begins to introduce Rafa to the other Auto Siglos sales team, starting with Marino, the most successful salesman. Marino is more interested in the list of clients Rafa is clutching (Lopez’s list) than in shaking Rafa’s hand.

We then get a feel for the characters of each salesperson as Susana introduces Rafa to them one by one:

Rosario: Formerly a rich housewife. When her husband lost his job, she needed to work and came to Autos Siglos. She seems to get most of her clients from her circle of rich girlfriends. She asks Rafa if he is one of “those” Medinas, but Rafa is obviously NOT from the same circles she runs in.

Ramiro: Worst salesman on the team. Lost his job before coming to Autos Siglos and it doesn’t look like this job is doing much for his self esteem. Ever cheerful Rafa urges him to cheer up and offers him some of that fine whiskey he still has stashed in his house. Unfortunately, Ramiro doesn’t drink. He really should start, given what we’ve seen of his wife and mother-in-law.

Don Ismael: The oldest salesman, who seems to specialize in selling big old cars to little old ladies. Unfortunately, his sales seem to be affected by his forgetfulness- very similar to Ale’s dad and also very cute. He, unlike the other salesmen, kindly offers to help Rafa any way he can- if he can remember that is.

Isabel: She’s called the General because she tells it like it is, even to the customers- no bs and by the book. Sort of like Ale, but with even less people skills.

Ramirez: A former college professor, who has published books on “the process of selling”, he seems know how to talk about selling, more than he seems to know how to actually do it.

Claudia: As Susana says, her legs are her best selling point. Well, her legs, and her boobs, and her derriere as she leans over to helpfully “inspect” some tires for a customer, and…well, you get the picture.

Nelson: The Dandy seems to be the male equivalent of Claudia, using his big white smile, gelled hair and stylish pink striped tie to reel in the lady customers.

Susana finally deposits Rafa at his desk. Apparently his recent tour through the Valley of Lost Souls and Ambitions has not dampened Rafa’s spirits at all. In fact he is doing a little happy dance to have a desk and computer and office phone for the first time in his life. He does what most of us do the first time we have a real, “grown-up” job with our own office/cubicle. He calls his mommy to give her his office number and talks about what great co-workers he has. Leonor asks him to please call Vicky, who has been driving her crazy calling the house all morning for updates on Rafa. Meanwhile, Vicky is having a little chat with a friend from the barrio, while holding a BIG knife. This friend is not vey smart, or doesn’t know Vicky very well because she: 1) talks about what a hot commodity Rafa is considered among the ladies of the barrio; 2) confirms Vicky’s fears that yes, by working in a fancy car dealership Rafa could meet and be interested in other women; and 3) asks if Vicky has a pet bird and what the heck she is talking about when she talks about her “pajarito.” Vicky clutches her knife and declares that Rafa is HERS.

Rafa’s introduction to Autos Siglos continues when Susana sits him in front of a tv to watch the propaganda, uh…orientation video. Rafa has clearly drunk the Kool-Aid because he doesn’t barf when the video version of Licenciado Francisco says they are all one big happy family. In fact, his megawatt smile grows even bigger. Poor devil.

Meanwhile, one of the members of said big happy family is sneaking up behind him, already looking for a way to stab him in the back. It’s Marino, and seeing that Rafa is occupied, he decides this is the perfect moment to get his hands on that much coveted list of clients. Unfortunately for Marino, Don Ismael chooses just this moment to pause at Rafa’s desk to work on his receipts, right on top of Rafa’s inherited list of clients. Marino raises such a ruckus trying to get rid of Don Ismael, that he raises the attention of all the other salespeople. Soon everyone is at Rafa’s desk, fighting over whether or not they should be looking at the list, whether Rafa deserves to have it, and which one of them deserves to have it. Obviously, each of them thinks that they deserve it. They don’t reach an agreement over which one of them should have the list, but agree that it shouldn’t be Medina (Rafa), as someone like him, with his fancy qualifications, surely already has all of the contacts he needs.

Rafa’s little sis Julieta seems to have also been thrown into a den of lions today. She’s gone to a college classmate’s house to work on a project with a group of students. Not only is the house more luxurious than any she has ever seen, her classmates seem intent on encouraging her to enjoy the pleasures of that luxury rather than studying. In particular, two of the three “boys” seem a bit too flirty and a bit too handsy with her, and Julieta is uncomfortable. Since one of them is the guy who played rapist Aaron on En Nombre de Amor, and is creepily rubbing sunscreen on her back, I am particularly worried about Julieta. Run, Julieta! Run!

On to another woman who should run, not walk, away from a man…Ale is speaking to Marco on the phone, calling him the most wonderful man in the world. Hah! Apparently, despite the neck and leg braces, the doc has cleared her to resume congressing with Marco, if she so desires. And she does. Marco, however, is more interested in talking her into buying a new car so that he will be able to drive around in the style to which he has become accustomed once again. Of course, this is for her own good, so that Marco can pick her up every day and she won’t have to ride in those disgusting taxis each day. Despite her good sense, and her crushing debt, Ale relents and decides to buy a new car. This increase in her debts reminds her of Rafa and how much she hates him. She will make him pay. She will make every day he works for her a living hell!

She decides to begin right away by giving Rafa his first lesson on the basic process/principals of the sale. Rafa’s first attempt to outline the process seems pretty good to me- first you greet the customer, make them feel welcomed and look your best (for which he always carries a pocket mirror); second you showcase the merchandise; third…He doesn’t get to finish as he keeps getting interrupted by Vicky calling him on his cell phone, and Ale angrily yelling at him and calling him an idiot. It’s the method all the best teachers use, right?

Ale finally decides on a more proactive approach to the lesson, teaching Rafa that the process of the sale involves seduction, convincing the client, making them imagine that they are already driving the car at high speed down the road, but NOT running innocent people off the road like someone she knows. And finally, of course, getting them to BUY (COM-PRE). While Ale is lecturing him on this, Rafa is drawing a pretty funny picture of Ale, neck and leg brace and all, hanging from a rope. When Ale hobbles closer to yell at Rafa from a more intimidating distance, she topples over his desk, right onto the drawing. BUSTED!

Labels: dinero

The interesting pairing tonight is Nieves and Jacqui, two great actresses and two great characters have a great time, but we're not there yet. Patience my friends...


For once we start off with fun, Xime salutes Mau and tells her primis she's going to give him her stocks, AJA!!!

As Kris described yesterday, Marcos pushes Moni to "just talk" and have a cup of coffee, oh and call him Marcos. Our little hothead isn't impressed by this smooth talker, and she's not buying his "I just want to get to know you better I'm so proud of you" bit. If he's connected with La Momia he must have something up his sleeve; Momia, the one who is stealing Mau's money and kids, poor orphans that he rescued from the street and she detests them. Marcos pleads, he's not an enemy. Moni refuses, she doesn't need his help, and Marcos mutters she's stubborn like Constanza. One thing I like about Marcos, I can understand him when he talks.

Xime presses Mau to accept the stocks she wants to give him. He's all NO it's your inheritence and I'm supposed to take care of you but she rightly points out that she should take care of him like he's always done for her since they were kids. She also reveals that Jero sold all his shares to the man who wants hers too, the father of Constanza. Mau is QUE??? and Xime thinks it's rather amusing.

Luisa and Katia have dragged a sullen Aldo to the kiddie disco to see Andres, slime-ball-in-training, croon but hopefully not play the guitar. Something about Andres' parents being friends of Katia's parents, whatever. Aldo thinks he's stuck in a mass of posers (bola de mamilas, see vocab below) and that's why Ivan's not there either. Katia requested a song to dedicate to Aldo; he looks disgusted. Fast Forward through Andres' song, Luisa's moony eyes, Katia staring at Aldo and Aldo trying to ignore her. Aldo, by the way, not impressed with Andres. Katia's having black and white flashbacks of Aldo. Oh, and Aldo's pretty bent out of shape because he sees the two creeps who attacked Estrella.

Mientras tanto, Ivan is studying and griping about La Momia to Tere. He misses Luisa and can't visit or call her. Tere reassures him that Mau is surely doing something about the situation but Ivan thinks he's lost Luisa forever. Alicia the metiche listens carefully in the background while pretending to form meatballs.

Alicia tries to comort Tere who is worried about poor Ivan and they agree that Monita is very special to all of them. Tere actually thanks Al for "listening", eavesdropping is more like it. Tere likes living in the neighborhood and they rip on Nieves a little bit which helps them bond.

Yawn, these broads are a bore. Let's jump over to the fun side of the courtyard.

Nieves and Jacqui are sharing, or should I say slamming, a tequilita to warm up for a little verbal sparring. One shot, Jacqui tells Nieves Marcos wouldn't marry a muerto de hambre (cheap skate) like Nieves; Nieves points out he was still in love with her after the wedding. Second shot, Nieves points out he's still in love with her and Jacqui says that's what he said at the hotel. Third shot, Jacqui blasts Beto for being beneath Coni. Fourth, Nieves calls Coni a lazy worm, drink up! Fifth, something about Marcos throwing Nieves in the trash, Adentro! Sixth, Nieves says then why was he just kissing her at the hotel? Seventh, Marcos was kissing Jacqui not fifteen minutes before that, toast! Eighth, Jacqui you're a liar. Nieves, you're a vulgar low-life. Let's toast to it!

Rolu's sulking in his chair and has to stand up to answer the phone. It's Lalu; Rolu tells him his bro is timid but interested. Lalu thinks Rolu is a love. Arni takes the call, answers kind of sexy but is horrified to hear Lalu on the other end. (Like, who else would be calling him?) Lalu wonders if he's read his lovely card yet. Poor Lalu, it's going to be hard to discourage him.

Back at the barrio the ladies have emptied the bottle and neither wants to admit she's drunk. Jacqui says she's as fresh as lettuce. Nieves says lettuce that's 15 days old, dry and limp. Jacqui says she's always the life of theparty while Nieves is the piñata. Nieves brags nobody can best her when it comes to drinking tequila. Jacqui brags that years of drinking and a lifetime of revelry are her endorsement. They decide to go to the Cantina to see who can drink the most tequila and off they stagger. Jacqui thinks the earth is trembling and tries to walk into the bedroom instead of out the door.

A hungry Don Cesar is outside waiting for Nieves and griping to Chris. Chris observes that the ladies are leaving. Nieves slurs that they're off to Don Tiburcio's cantina and don't follow them. She drags Jacqui off leaving Don C to fend for himself for dinner, but at Chris' urging DC follows so he can protect his sweet love muffin.

Mau is telling Xime that he can't accept the stocks. She says fine she'll sell them to him. But he doesn't have money. OK then she will sell them and loan him the money, she doesn't want to work in Marcos and Coni's company anyway. Mau can pay her back whenever because he's the best cousin in the world. He accepts on the condition that he can repay with interest and the adoring cousins rub foreheads. Wow, what a sweet scene this was.

Arni frets around the house while Rolu teases him about getting ready for his galán. What? Arni hasn't read his love letter yet? Like real brothers Rolu grabs the letter and taunts while Arni chases him around. Arni looks at the letter like it's going to bite him. When Rolu hauls his wheelchair upstaris I have to wonder, how do they get him up and down that spiral staircase when he's actually in the chair?

Oh crap, we're back at the Latched-To-The-Pap disco having to watch the jerk Andres shake his skinny little hips in Luisa's direction. I swear he's got a pair of gym socks stuffed down his pants, the show off. Oh cool, Aldo's mocking him. I love it. But the girls love Andres and smother him with kisses. Blech.

Uh oh, Aldo has reached the boiling point and jumps up. I was wondering what happened to those dopes who harassed Estrella. They're about to get thumped.

Estre and Beto walk home as sympathetic pals, a first for them. They thank each other for listening and never imagined they could be pals, she says he's a blast (cannon = cañon) but how will they act with each other from now on? They agree as long as he's not a jerk and she's not a nobody it'll be fine, the new pals high five.

Mientras tanto the little would-be rapists can't keep their mouths shut and begin insulting Estre. Aldo informs them she's his girlfriend which sets them laughing. The one calls her a whore (golfa) and gets a punch in the face for it. The other gets it in the stomach. It's about time, these guys are incredible creeps.

The Odd Couple of Snow and Fire are at the cantina starting in on a new bottle. We see that Don Cesar has taken a table behind them so he can observe. Jacqui brags that Marcos married her. Nieves says true but he loved her and only married Jacqui to try to forget his little snow ball. Jacqui says he wanted to marry a classy lady from a good family and that would be her. They laugh and slam their shot glasses down after every insult.

Pau tells Chris to be careful and kisses him as he goes off to work. (Uh oh, is this an anvil?) But first they have to give Beto the 411 that his ma oscillated off to the cantina with the Momia's mom, both drunk.

Jacqui brags that Marcos gave HER the pearls. Nieve says he bought them for HER but she refused them. They argue about which are better the beads from the tianguis (good call Jarocha) or the expensive black pearls and they both say each to her own. The ladies look like they might be slowing down, Jacqui asks Nieves if she's getting cold feet but Nieves is matching Jacqui shot for shot. Poor DC's got ants in his pants and wants to interrupt but thinks better of it and sits back down.

Xime arrives back home to find Arnie and is shocked he hasn't yet read Lalu's love letter. One, Lalu wrote a great letter of his love, two it's very bad he hasn't read it, and three, she can't believe he's not dying of curiosity and hasn't read it a thousand times. But oops, she has to admit that she hasn't read Rolu's letter yet either. They decide to read them at the same time. Ready? One Two Three. They sit knee to knee, read, sigh and glance at each other, then ask, did you like it?? Xime says she's never read anything so romantic. Arni says he's not gay but...neither has he! Xime says Lalu adores Arni and Arni says not as much as Rolu does you, are you sure a woman didn't write this letter? Xime looks guilty and said she saw Lalu write the words. Xime asks did Rolu really write his? Yes, Arni saw him. They stare.

They glare, and I'm talking about the dos brujas who are into their third bottle. Nieves looks at the two empties and tells Don T to "take those four away." They sink lower and lower in their chairs as they get friendlier and friendlier, each determined to win the drink-off. Jacqui's clothes are starting to fall off of her. DC has seen enough and tries to stop this. He wants Nieves to go home and Jacqui says it's a trap because she doesn't have a chauffeur. She also sneaks another shot while DC scolds Nieves.

Nieves, beads now around her head, is thrilled to see Beto and Estrella enter the cantina. Meanwhile Jacqui tries to force a shot down DC's throat. Dang, could these scenes be any funnier?

Bah, gotta end with the glum I guess. Mau recalls Isabel threatening to go with him to tell Moni that she's alive. The doorbell rings and whoever could it be? Monita! He wants to make a delicious pasta dinner for his queen. But the queen looks sad and preoccupied. It's nothing, just a stupid thing that happened. She saw the Momia who thinks that Moni's mom is alive and suggested that Mau could quell her doubts. Mau looks miserable and Moni asks what's going on?

Mañana: Mau and Moni face off with Marcos and Coni. Mau and Moni cry.



Bola de mamilas = About the word "mamila" that Aldo used. That's the common word people use to avoid saying "mamón" because that word is considered too much for family hours. "Mamón" means a person that is always acting as if he is better than everyone else but in reality he is just a poser and a coward. It comes from the act of breastfeed as that type of behaviour is seem sometimes on people who are spoiled by their parents. That is what Aldo meant when he said that the place was full with a bunch of "mamilas". (Explanation courtesy of Jarocha)

Labels: gancho

We start off with Ale singing Rafa’s praises to her boss. He’s concerned that Rafa doesn’t have any experience selling cars. Ale reassures him that won’t be a problem. He replies I don’t doubt that as you will be responsible for him.

He encourages her as his trainer she can polish this Rock. Who knows it might just turn into a gem. Ale pulls one of her faces.

We are now in the showroom. Ramirez is informing Edgar that he has seen Lopez’s List of clients on Ales desk. Edgar wants him to copy this list. Ramirez is not buying that. He would rather be dressed up as a hamburger. (what?)

Now we have Isabel trying to finagle the same information from Susana. Ale sneaks up behind them and quickly puts an end to that game.

So now if there are any men out there watching this show, this is for you. We have Vicky posing in front of the mirror in very bright red underwear. She is giving herself a little pep talk. With this type of clothes and lots of love, nobody will be able to steal her man.

After holding several different little outfits in front of the mirror she decides to surprise Rafa with a phone call. Oops there’s a busy signal and a knock on the door.

Enter the Brothers Grimm. They start harassing her about them being hungry . Filepe snatches the phone out of her hand wanting to know who she’s calling. Of course getting fed is more important to them. They leave yelling at her to hurry. Poor Vicky is left alone looking sadly at her phone

Ale informs Susana that Beltran accepted having Rafa work at the Siglo. Susana doesn’t know whether she should congratulate her or give condolences. Ale says the condolences, as she is now going to spend the next few years in Hell.

Ale makes Susana promise that no one but her and Marco is to know that this criminal is working here. She agrees and tells Ale she will keep her company in this Hell. Susana asks Ale what happens if this guy can’t sell cars and can’t pay her back. She tells her not to worry, if that guy has to be here, he is going to pay her back everything.

Rafa walks into his living room and Vicky is on the sofa crying Rafa asks her whets wrong, Sniffing she tells him she is just leaving. She asks if he is going to start work tomorrow. Rafa answers yes and Vicky
Is bawling even harder. And she’s out the door.

Leonor chides Rafa, she says they know he didn’t ask Vicky to marry him. Rafa tells him he is just trying to do the right thing. Earn the money on his own. Pay his own debts. Julieta wonders if he knows what he is getting into by working for Ale.

They are concerned for him as he has always worked independently and never for a big corporation.
He understands their concern, but this accident has changed his life. He too is concerned if this doesn’t work out he will go back to jail.

Ale has now returned home greeted by her adoring fiancé Marco. She is relieved that the doctor took away her crutches and is now able to use a cane. She is lamenting her situation with having Rafa work for her. She even admits she falsified his resume. I sense a little remorse in her voice at having to lie and defraud her boss and co-workers.

Marco reassures her that is okay. What a moral man. She has to do what she needs to do . Ale makes Marco promise he wont tell her dad or her aunt that Rafa is working for her.

Ale is greeted by Azusana, informing her what is for supper. Marco has excused himself to go and greet the in-laws. Azusana informs Ale There is only enough for the three of them and she encourages Ale to get rid of Marco Ale says she’s not hungry and to not worry.

At the table we have Jorge informing Marco that there was someone to see the house and our “ can you guess the guys name” game is being played between Rosario and Jorge. Ale enters and puts an end to that. Marco informs her that they have a buyer for the House. Ale tells them they are not selling the house. She says she is working now and Rafa is also working so he will be able to pay them.

Jorge enquires if she is just saying this to ease their minds. They are reassured that this is not the case. Jorge states that he will call Filepe in the morning to inform him they are not selling the house. He is corrected by Rosario saying it is Carlos. Jorge state’s okay you call Carlos and I’ll call Filepe. (too funny)

Jorge is calling for Azucena to get some supper for Marcos. Azucena is behind Marcos waving wildly. Jorge wants to know what’s wrong, Azucena says their was a fly, and off she goes to get Marcos supper. Ale will go without.

Marco starts telling them about the embargo. Things are not going well. Rosario states she doesn’t have confidence in Chavez and Marco tells her not to worry he will take care of everything. (Huh huh)

Marco has a one track mind. He now tells them he has good news. Everything’s ready for him and Ale to get married next month. Ales jaw drops.

We also have talk about marriage at Rafa’s hose. He is telling Leonor that he can’t be thinking about getting married at this time. Leonor understands this but is concerned for Vicky. She states Vicky is worried that once he starts working that their relationship will end.

Back at Ale’s place Marco is upset that Ale wasn’t thrilled about his wedding plans. Ale is upset that he didn’t talk to her first, and that he wants the wedding in a month. They continue to argue. Ale wonders if this is what it is going to be like once they get married (I’m afraid so honey).

Marco pulls the wounded puppy card and questions if its because she doesn’t want to marry him. Ale reassures him that’s not the case. She states she’s not the same person. She’s broken, poor, in debt and facing another operation. She’s not ready to get married like that.

Marco is flaming mad and calls her egotistic. (Isn’t that like the donkey saying you have big ears). He rants on at her. Ale only pleading for time to reorganize her life. Marco gives her an ultimatum. If she loves him she will marry him next month. Otherwise its over. And he is out the door.

Morning has broken, and now we have Rafa at home getting a nice send off from mom and sister. He gives them lunch money and is out the door. He is running late and who should be around the corner but Vicky.

She feigns surprise at their meeting. She wants to know if he was going to leave without saying good bye. She is concerned that he is going to be working with beautiful women all day. She is either worried he will change and not want her or worried or that he will trade her for someone else. Didn’t get too much of that whole conversation.

She wants him to take her with him and introduce her to all her to all his work-mates as his girlfriend. He calls her crazy, back peddles and in the end is off without her, but not without one final kiss..

Ale is at Siglo, irate that Rafa hasn’t arrived yet. We flash to Rafa getting off the short green bus, dropping his attaché case and fumbling around. As if he wasn’t late enough he stops to chat with the janitor for a while.

Rosaura is late as well and asks Susana if Ale is there yet. She tells Rosaura to hurry to the meeting before Ale sees her. As Susana leaves Rosaura quickly glances at Rafas’ resume sitting out on the open table. She puts it down as Susana returns and scurries off.

She enters the meeting room and speculates to her co-workers the reason why Ale isn’t there yet. She’s waiting for her new salesmen. They enquire if it is a man or woman. She proceeds to give them the scoop as she “accidentally’ saw the resume on the table. There is much gossip going on about this new guy. Edgar says he cant begin to be as good as the man, pointing to his own picture, on the wall. Claudia wants to know what Rafas’ photo looked like.

The gossip is ended as Ale walks in the room. She looks weary and walks slowly to the front. Ismael wants to know if it is true that Lopez’s replacement starts today. She says yes, and he should be here.. Some one states that poor guy is off to a bad start. When Ale asks him what he said he sheepishly says “I feel bad and I am poor”.

Rafa finally tears himself away from the janitor and rushes inside. Ale is telling everyone they have to improve their sales. She wants sales and punctuality. At this moment in walks Rafa . This is not the way to make a good first impression. She sarcastically asks for applause for the replacement of Lopez as he looks like a deer caught in headlights.

All eyes are now on Rafa as he timidly smiles and waves. He shoots Ale a sheepish grin and she is not impressed.

He timidly greets everyone and Ale is having a small melt-down. Susana to the rescue. She tells Ale to take a breath, and she momentarily takes over and introduces Rafa to the group.

Ale resumes her role as leader and reminds Rafa the importance of punctuality. We have an exhausting speech from Ale about how they have to improve their sales. She signals out everyone there and tells them one by one how many sales she expects from each of them. As she approaches Claudia who is now standing we see Rafa almost falling out of his seat sneaking a peak at Claudia’s legs.

When she gets to Jimenez she tells him she wants him to sell 13 cars. He tells her that is an unlucky number. Okay she says then make it 14. As she walks back up front, Rafa has his hand in the air. Whistling to get her attention. That didn’t go over well. She yells at him to not whistle at her she is not some animal. She composes herself and says they will talk in the office.

The meeting is coming to an end and she states for the love we have for this company lets sing our hymn. Rafa stands and starts singing, what can only be the Mexican National Anthem. She screams at him and
says the hymn of the Auto Siglo. He begs her pardon, and she says for the last time.

They all stand and start singing. And furthermore this is an action song. Too funny.

We have one more Vicky scene with her pounding on Leonors’ door, bawling, He’s gone he’s gone.
Leonor assures her he will be back. She is crying and says she has a bad feeling that he’s gone for good. She says this job is a one way ticket. Leonor continues reassuring her and tells her he is probably trying to call her now. Vicky wipes her nose thinks about this for a second and she’s out the door.

Ale and Rafa are now in her office. She is yelling at him stating not only is he an assassin but irresponsible. He shows up late for work. He tries to apologize using the Tu form and she tells him not to tutear him. They are not equals. Rafa looks heartbroken at this. He gives her all his excuses for being late. She is not buying any of this.

She asks him if he has any experience working for a company. He tells her he is use to working alone. She makes fun of him as he tries to explain what he does She finally tells him if it wasn’t for the fact that she had to hire him because of all the grief he has caused her he would be out on the street.

More gossip from the crew about Rafa and why he was hired. Speculating that he may be an ex-boyfriend. Claudia doesn’t like that idea . They hope it is a boyfriend, and maybe she wont be so cranky anymore. Rosaura informs everyone she is going to take advantage of Susana’s absence form her office and steal the resume.

Ale tells Rafa she has a copy of his resume. He seems pleased with this and confesses he did it himself. She tells him not to be an idiot. She had to fix it up. It was if a school kid wrote it. She tells him to memorize it because from now on he is a different person. Rafa is impressed with all his new attributes. Ale is shaking her head and rolling her eyes

Rafa’s new co-workers are also singing his praises.. They are all looking over the resume that Rosaura took from Susana’s office, sizing up their new completion.

Ale is letting Rafa know what she expects from him. He has to sell more cars then anyone else so he can pay her what he owes him. The minimum is 28 cars. And at least 6 of them have to be trucks. Rafa is a little panicked at this. Not to worry. She hands him Lopez’s list of clients. Rafa pulls out his list of clients as Ale pops a pill. Ale asks if anyone on this list would buy a truck. She yells at him some more and says this is the only thing that is going to save you from prison. Or something like that.

She calls for Susana to introduce Rafa to the crew. As he goes to leave he offers to shake her hand goodbye, and she dismisses this, and takes a drink of water. As he is about to leave she tells him that no one is to know what type of criminal he really is. She tells him to read the resume. That’s who he is.

Susana asks her if she is all right. She screams back at her, how can I be all right when I have to look at this guy from now on.. She wants to know if Marco called. Susana tells her no. Ale is wondering why she just didn’t die in the accident. (that would have made poor Rafa’s life easier)

We have a scene with Marco disguised as some cowboy meeting with Chavez. Chavez goes in for the hug, and Marco stops him. Telling him it is dangerous for them to be seen together. He scolds him for having meetings in public places where he could run into people he knows.

Chavez asks him why he’s so cranky. Marco states it’s because he had to walk. Chavez wants to know why he didn’t take the father-in-laws car. He explains that he had a fight with Ale last night and left in a hurry.
Chavez warns him about upsetting the fiancé especially since the embargo can be lifted at any time. If he isn’t married before that happens, everything they have worked for is over.

Marco tells him to chill. He has everything under control. Chavez hands him some money. I think they are selling milk form the ranch on the side. He warns Marco not to let Ale get a look at the books or they will both land in jail

There is some silly talk, with Chavez doing a little street dance and Marco telling him to stop Chavez wants to have a party at the Hacienda. I didn’t get too much more than that

Our final scene is in the showroom. Marino is on the phone, and Susana introduces Rafa. She tells Rafa he is the most successful salesman.. As he goes to shake Rafa’s hand he realizes that Rafa has in his hand the list of Lopez’s clients. Marino is not a happy man. And this is where we end.

Labels: dinero

Emilio leaves for home.

Ale explains to SMJ why they are divorced, tells her about the pills she should take and asks her to see Tony.

Maura shows Bruno that she has on her cell the video of Katia with Mateo. Maura asks Bruno about the "other" matter and Bruno tells her how Alex showed MJ's scar, but not to worry that Useless will be blamed for everything. Maura is all over Bruno's arm.

In the nursery SMJ comes in and the nurse asks how she is and how is her father? SMJ says fine, but I don't think she has seen him yet. The nurse goes on how she has much affection for Don Pedrito and she doesn't know why anyone would want to harm a good man like him. The nurses tells SMJ about little Vicky and how she is suffering from the consequences of her mother drinking while pregnant. The nurse says what a good baby Tony is and how Ale loves him. She encourages SMJ to pick him up. SMJ says he is beautiful and shes asks the nurse if she is sure he is her son. The nurse says of course. But that she wasn't called in the first few weeks because SMJ was nursing him. SMJ asks why she stopped and the nurse says maybe she didn't like but don't ask her. SMJ caresses baby Tony with her hand and tells him she is his mommy.

Bruno is walking somewhere and he calls Katia. Katia says she is angry with him and Bruno says he they need to talk. Katia says go ahead, but Bruno says not on the phone. Bruno says he wants to talk in his hotel room.

At the market Pedro is telling Paula how well Gabrials show went. Ale comes and Pedro asks if he has news of MJ. Ale says yes, she is at the house. Pedro is thankful. Paula says to Ale to tell him the rest. Ale tells Pedro she has no memory. Ale says he wanted to prepare him for when she doesn't recognize him.

Bruno is in the swimming pool when Katia arrives. Katia says she has looked all over the hotel for him. Bruno says yeah, but she is late and he doesn't have time. Katia starts telling him all the things she can talk about like the DR thing and her being a minor. Bruno pushes her down on the bed and says lies, you are a wh0re! Katia jumps back up and slaps him, not hard enough. Bruno licks her hand. He tosses her the phone so she can see the evidence of her being with Mateo. Katia can't believe it. Bruno walks in the the bathroom that has a full tub and gets in without removing his shorts. Katia tries to tell him she loves him and he grabs her head and pushes underwater and then he tells her to get out already. Katia crys. So sad!

Elena gets back home and asks the maid where her husband is. He's in the clinic.

Then we see Emilio knocking on Porfirio's door.

We see Jorge and Elena at the bed Useless. His hair is gone and because of his nervous system he is all jerky.

Emilio and Porfirio talk. Porfirio says he doesn't have much time left. He is dying. Porfirio is adamant that Emilio confirm his suspicions that Damian is deceitful. Emilio confirms.

Ale along with Paula and Pedro drive up to the Lombardo casa. SMJ comes down the stairs Ale greets her and asks how she is feeling. Ale then introduces her to her father. SMJ says Usted? Paula says yes, he was there when their mother abandoned them. Pedro asks if he can kiss her. SMJ does not remember. Ale and Paula leave so Pedro and SMJ can talk. Pedro starts explain how they went to church... SMJ still remembers nada.
SMJ asks Pedro if Elena is her mother. Pedro says yes she is the mother of SMJ, Paula and Sandra who died a few days ago. He tells her that the doctors said it was a drug overdose. Ale was with her at her last moment. SMJ wants to know where she is buried and Pedro tells her that Sandra was cremated and he has her ashes at his home. SMJ then says that the truth is that she really is MJ? Pedro says yes. He is telling her the truth. MJ says that she can feel his love and that she did not feel love at the house of her mother. There she felt fear, a horrible feeling, jailed repressed and now after speaking with Pedro she realizes here she is wanted, and she is thankful.

Maura is on the phone with Lissette. Maura is passing along the news that it was Useless that kidnapped MJ. Katia comes to ask why Maura did it. Katia knows that Maura is behind the video etc. Katia tells her they are pigs. Maura tells her she is stupid. Well Katia is finding out what kind of friends she has.

Lety, Lisettes friend comes to visit and help her eat. They laugh about por el pipip.

MJ comes in with Pedro and tells Ale that her Padre told her the history. Pedro says that he will pray that she remembers soon. Ale says she will remember sooner if she takes the medicine that Hernan brought. MJ says she will and that she wants to remember and she also wants to have the brain scan. She needs to remember because she sees Ale as a stranger that she wants to remember.

Fernando comes home and Katia runs down crying and asks for forgiveness. Fernando was right about Bruno. Fernando tells her to cry and that her life will get better, that he will always love her. Sooooooooo is this Katia's redemption?

Jorge in Useless room is on his cell with Bruno and are getting their stories correct and that Useless will be in Merida the next day. Bruno has it all under control. Useless will take the fall.

Useless is asking what is wrong with him? He is useless.

Bruno is trying to meditate while Rachel asks him to explain how Useless kidnapped MJ. Bruno says it is the truth. Rachel says she doesn't want him to go to jail. Bruno says Useless was irresponsible. He tells Rachel she is pathetic and it is not his fault. Rachel says she doesn't believe it.

We are back at the clinic where Useless is brought in and fed some bull. Useless is getting stronger by the second.

Emilio calls Fernando and wonders if MJ couldn't visit Porfirio. Fer says her will talk to Ale.

Elena and Jorge tell Useless that he has problems. Bruno is going to blame him for kidnapping MJ.

Rachel is telling Victoria that she doesn't believe that Useless kidnapped MJ. Victoria woud like to believe it was Useless.

Ale is at work and Fer tells him about the call from his Tio and that they should go see Porfirio and tell him the truth. Ale agrees. Victoria calls and suggests that Ale take MJ to dinner and start making new memories.

At the market Chucho is closing shop and Paula is telling Meche and Gabe everything about MJ.

Roberto is holding baby Vicky. MJ comes in and says hello to Roberto and then Victoria comes in. Roberto has to leave. Victoria talks to MJ about going to dinner with Ale, and at first she protests because she doesn't remember but Victoria talks her into it.

Ale comes home and Victoria brings MJ downstairs. Ale compliments MJ and MJ says she not used to being called MJ. Bruno walks in and says that she is Sandra and that it is the fault of Useless. Rachel says no. Victoria says end of discussion. Bruno takes MJ's arm and Ale says that is my woman and Bruno says she is his woman and that they divorced. They fight again on the floor. Victoria finally gets it broke up and MJ says she is going with Ale. Bruno continues his lies but finally leaves. Victoria apoligizes to MJ and Ale says the rest of MJ's night will be restful. They leave. Rachel says 'see" to Victoria. Bruno can't leave MJ alone.

Bruno in his room is getting crazy mad. He hates that Ale always seems to get what he wants, but if he can't have MJ Ale can't either

Labels: sortilegio

Cristobal asks Eugenio to help him find a man.

Dr. Bermudez is packing up his office and comes across the ring he was going to give Macarena. He decides to give it to Paloma.

Rufi is looking at a picture of Macarena and confessing to her that she sort of hinted that Paloma was Cristobal's. I thought it would be okay once I found out at the trial that you were going to marry him. I think he should take care of his child.

Gabriel brings Paloma a birthday gift. It's a laptop. She doesn't want to accept it, but he insists. She wants him in her life forever. She has so much to learn from him. He says me too. They gaze at each other and he kisses her on her cheek.

Anamar tells Emiliano that the baby is his also and that they can't take that away from him. Emiliano asks her when she plans to leave. She was only supposed to be here for a couple of days, but doesn't look like she's rushing off. She says she's staying until things are better from him. He needs a friend right now. Emiliano doesn't want to keep her from things that she has to do. She agrees, but says he's more important. She leans in to kiss him, but a nurse interrupts them. The doctor wants to see him.

Rafa and the lawyer are waiting for Diana who is an hour late. She finally comes in and says sorry I'm late, but I wanted to look good. So you know what you’re missing. Although now it is I who wants to divorce you.

Carloca comes home and no one notices her. Paloma shows her the computer that Gabriel bought her. Carloca takes it away and tells Gabriel that Paloma cannot accept such a gift. He tells her that it's more then a gift, it's for Paloma to use for further learning in his class. She doesn't have the money for it until she gets her inheritance. It's a loan which she will pay back to me. Paloma and Rufi laugh and Carloca gets onto Paloma for laughing. She points out that some men will do things for you, but want something in return. Gabriel says that's not the case. Rufi agrees and says that she would be with Paloma along with Dr. Bermudez and who knows who else. We will take better care of Paloma then you did. Paloma takes back the computer.

Diana signs the divorce papers and Rafa thinks to himself that if only all this happened before Camila married Orlando. Diana thinks to herself that Rafa will be sorry he divorced her once he realizes how wonderful she is. Then out loud tells him that Camila married another. And that the woman he's with will also leave him. Rafa says so that's why you finally gave me the divorce. Because Camila married another. Well yes replies Diana. At this time I don't care to lose you, but I swore to myself that you were not going to be with her. And it happened.

Orlando asks Camila if she's feeling better now. Camila says she overreacted. With Samuel there was so much lies, that a part of me doesn't trust. Orlando says that he didn't feel right talking to her about Emiliano's feelings. It is a problem between him and Romina. We should not get involved. Camila agrees. She knew they wouldn't last but didn't imagine it would happen so fast. Orlando says let's not let this spoil our honeymoon.

Emiliano informs Anamar that the doctor tells him that the baby can go home Friday. Anamar gets excited and kisses him.

Carloca walks into her study pissed and looks for Dr. Bermudez address. She says out loud that first it's Dr. Bermudez then Cristobal.

Emiliano tells Anamar that he doesn't want her to confuse things. He tells her that they had great times together in the past, but he considers her a friend now. I love another woman and she's in my heart. There is no room for anyone else. Not even I asks Anamar. No not even you replies Emiliano.

Carloca is lurking outside Dr. Bermudez house. Tries the door, but finds it locked. Dr. Bermudez drives up. She runs off without him seeing her. Comes back after he gets in his house and figures out a way for her to get in.

Eugenio and Cristobal keep talking about the mystery man and Carloca. Eugenio says that Carloca's very observant and obsessive. He's going to help him. Eugenio makes a call for a man to come quickly to Real de Monte.

Romina gets a call from Camila asking her how she's doing. Romina thinks she's on her way to her, but Camila says I'm still on my honeymoon. Camila reminds Romina that she knew this was going to happen, but insisted on marrying Emiliano anyway. Romina doesn't want to be lectured and can't believe that she's abandoning her. Camila says she's not. She's talking to her on the phone. If it was an emergency she would be there, but it's not. And she's not suspending her honeymoon for this. Romina says fine. Then don't call me while your there and don't tell me how wonderful of a time your having with your husband. While I am here alone and just abandoned by my husband. Then hangs up on her.

Romina gets another call and thinks it's her mother. I said don't call shouts Romina. But it's Emiliano. She gets all soft spoken and asks him if he misses her as much as she misses him. He ignores her and asks if she's been to the hospital today. Yes lies Romina. For a little while. Then you already know says Emiliano. What asks Romina? The doctor tells me the baby can come home Friday. Romina pretends she knew this and says I was going to call you. I want for both of us to go and get him. Emiliano agrees. Then Romina says I want us to all be together here for the first night.

Eugenio introduces Cristobal to an artist so that he can describe how Paloma's fake daddy looks like.

German is at a bar drinking and reminiscences about his conversation with his boss about Carloca. His boss gets onto him. German tries to defend himself, but his boss fires him. He keeps on drinking. Liliana and Eric are at the same place. She runs off to go to the ladies room and sees him. She says I heard you got fired. Your little boyfriend must have told you replies German. It was an injustice. Injustice asks Liliana. Things can change.

Luz and Gabriel are having coffee and tell each other they think things are going bad in their respective relationships.

Madeleine is excited that Cristobal wants to talk to her. Eugenio tells her that Cristobal's hurting though. He doesn't know when Cristobal plans to see her, because right now he's having problems. Madeleine wants to know, but Eugenio says you'll find out soon. He gets a call from Carloca. She wants to talk to him about business. They agree to meet in a few days. He says he'll pick her up.

Gabriel tells Inez that Rafa is a good man. He's offering to share his life with you. Luz agrees, but doesn't want to get married. Marriage destroys relationships. Gabriel disagrees. His parents were very happy together. Rafa is not just offering marriage for you to be together, but also to help you get Xiochi. I think that this is the first time you really feel something for someone and it scares you. Luz agrees. She's scared. Gabriel says give it a chance. Luz says she'll think about it. She changes the subject to Paloma. He says not much can happen. I don't have a lot of time. Never have I wanted to live like I do now. But don't tell anything to my dad about this.

Juanita serves Diana dinner. Diana wonders if Samuel has called her today. Juanita says no one. Diana runs to the phone and calls Samuel. No answer. She leaves a message for him to call her. Turns out Samuel's in bed with another.

Luz comes home and Rafa tells her he's finally divorced. They talk about his marriage proposal to her. He tells her to forget it. He knows how uncomfortable it makes her. She asks if he has changed his mind. Of course not replies Rafa. Luz proposes to him. He accepts.

The artist is done with the drawing and Cristobal shows Eugenio and Gabriel the picture. Gabriel claims to know him. But where? Eugenio tells the artist guy to give the picture to the police.

Paloma is at church reading from the bible. Carloca notices Madeleine behind her and asks Rufi if that is Crisotbal's mother. Yes replies Rufi. Carloca glares at her. After church Madeleine stops Paloma from leaving. She tells Paloma that at the trial she noticed that she looked like someone she knew. Who's that asks Paloma. My mother replies Madeleine. She pulls out a locket from her purse and shows Paloma a picture of her mom and dad. (Looks like Paloma and Emiliano to me) Paloma says we look alike to Rufi. Isn't that weird?

Gabriel tells Eugenio that he was up all night thinking about who the mystery man was. Eugenio says don't stress yourself out. He gets a call from someone who I think has found the guy.

Cristobal gets a visit from his Excellency who informs him that the church wants him back. Cristobal is overcome with emotion and cries. The phone rings and its Eugenio.

Camila and Orlando are swimming in the sea, petting lizards, going scuba diving, jet skiing and just having a grand time.

Rafa and Luz pick up Xiochi. She's theirs.

Cristobal calls Carloca and wants to talk. He wants to meet at a hotel. Carloca is excited. Cristobal hangs up and Eugenio tells him perfect.

Carloca pulls up to the hotel all excited. She's dressed in her favorite color. She knocks on the door and Cristobal opens the door. Carloca is wearing a very low top with her bosoms hanging all out. She walks in and is all nervous. Cristobal looks at her and says there not alone. It's Paloma's fake daddy. Cristobal asks her why she lied. Because I am Paloma's real father. Carloca muy impactada.

Manana: Cristobal confronts Carloca about her lies.

Labels: amor

Ale can’t believe that Marco would even consider asking her to hire her worst enemy, Rafael. Marco lays out the wisdom of the move – she can guarantee he’ll have money to pay her, and she needs another dealer anyway. Though I don’t know why, considering the showroom typically has about eight salesmen and one customer. Maybe THAT’s why she ran out of money! Aside from the fact that she hates Rafael, Ale also reminds Marco that Raf doesn’t know anything about selling cars. She gets offended when he suggests that she use her clout to steer sales toward him.

Ale goes into the meeting to yell at the staff. I think her motivational tactics need a little polish. Everyone wants to put a friend into the salesman job opening, and everybody wants to get their hands on Lopez’ list of sales contacts. Dandy tries to get it from Claudia, and later El Teórico tries to swipe it from Ale’s desk. Speaking of Lopez, check this YouTube clip of Joaquín López-Dóriga (click here), a very respected, polished news anchor, in an uncustomary situation. Imagine Walter Cronkite getting the giggles. (Yeah, I know it’s off topic, but this is my recap and I can go OT if I wanna’. Neeners!)

Ale tells her boss that she has found a replacement dealer, but he says he is the one who will decide whether to hire the guy, and first he needs to see a resume.

Raf has gotten to the point of desperation. The only way he can get money is to borrow it from Vicky’s dad, but the only way Gastón will make the loan is if Raf marries Vicky. So our hero has a choice: wedding bells or prison cells. Be a lovebird or a jailbird. So he cinches up his calzones and calls Vicky to tell her he wants to meet with her father. Our pajarita goes all aflutter, expecting that after three years of working on this boy, she’ll finally catch the brass ring. (What? You think Rafael el probre can afford a gold ring??)

Rafael drags his friend Jaime along to see Gastón, so there is someone to call an ambulance if he ends up on the business end of a meat cleaver. Jaime is even more scared than Raf, and manages to slip out, promising that he’ll watch from a distance.

“From a distance” translates into hiding in the nearest doorway, which happens to be that of the new salon. The short jailbird says his name is Bougainvillea. Anyone remember another novela moment (click here), same actor, and another Bougainvillea? Our “beauticians” are so desperate for business, they Shanghai Jaime into a chair and start giving him a makeover. When Jaime remembers them from jail, they shut him up by putting a moisturizing towel over his face, so their new associate won’t hear this important detail about their work history.

At the butcher shop, Raf stumbles and stutters, afraid to talk about the M-word. He’s saved by the bell, and this time it’s not wedding bells but a ringing cell. Marco tells him to get his resume to Ale ASAP, Sabes? Well, Raf doesn’t sabe. What’s a resume? Raf finishes the call and has a welcome change of plans. He tells Gastón that he came to announce that he has a job. Poor Vicky almost cries, seeing her hopes go hopeless. But the cries turn to shrieks when she has Raf alone. She’s furious that he didn’t ask for her hand as she had understood he would, and she’s none too happy that he’s going to be working around women. She wants her pajarito all to herself.

At home, Raf calls his friend to ask, “What’s a resume?” Ale tells Susanna that she’s going to hire Rafael, and Su concludes that Ale’s med’s are rotting her brain. Marco tells his shady cohort Vicente the real reason he wants Raf hired – so Ale makes less money, so she won’t be able to redeem the house, and Marco will be able to take possession. Vicente suggests that Marco marry quickly, but I couldn’t understand the reason. Jaime warns Raf that working with Ale will be worse than his cuñados’ machetes. Raf goes to the repo man and begs a little more patience, and a chance to use the fax machine.

Susanna brings Ale the resume off the fax machine. It goes on for several pages, hand written, block letters like a second grader. His list of education starts in kindergarten, and his references include his mother the housewife. But he does mention that his first salesman job was in elementary school. Susanna is really warming up to Rafael. (Isn’t it always the wise, kind character who first sees the value of the diamond in the rough?) She has become his advocate with Ale. Ale knows the resume won’t fly, so she invents one as Su types.

I know that there were many things that flew over my head. I welcome any additions or corrections.

Friends, this is my last recap of Dinero. I stepped in at the beginning as a sort of “bridge” recapper until the show got rolling, and as the sidebar says, it was a temporary fix. Thank you for your support. Board Mom is looking for a replacement, but if no one steps forward there won’t be a recap on Tuesdays, just be an empty blog post so people have a place to comment. I encourage you to give it a try. It’s a great way to improve your Spanish, and the audience is always appreciative.

Labels: dinero

Repeat from yesterday: Paloma doesn’t find it all suspicious that her evil auntie orders her to stay away from her ex-beloved ex-priest, who has been acquitted of murder and whose only crime was to not announce his engagement to her mother when he was still in the process of leaving the ministry. After all, his relationship with Natalia shows how vile he is.

Rufi tells Carlota she thinks they should just get all the secrets out in the open. Carloca says it is the will of god that Paloma and Cris be separated. I put “god” in lower case on purpose because I’m pretty sure La Loca is referring to herself, not any officially recognized deity.

Today: Paloma packs her suitcase and reminisces about hugging Emiliano at the jubilant moment when Cris and Nat were declared innocent. She thinks she’s got to get out of this place and away from him.

At the same moment, Emiliano is also packing and reminiscing about the same moment.

Cris pays an unfriendly visit to Misery Manor and asks Cruel if she was behind the whole murder accusation. She, of course, coolly declares that she loves him and would never hurt him. “Do you think I’m an idiot?” he asks. Cruel says she did this to help him; now that he isn’t a priest they are totally free to get it on. Isn’t that why he’s here? Cris looks stonefacedly sick as Carlota slimes herself into his personal space. Just then Paloma walks up behind Crueloca and is way impactada. Cruel smirks.

Eugenio tells Gabriel that the birthday gift Gabe is giving Paloma is perfect; it will let them keep in touch. Fatalistic Gabriel says he’s saying goodbye to her para siempre after the party. That would be for the best. Eugenio says that he will be with him until the very last moment. They hug and cry. I might possibly sniffle a little myself.

Carlota stages a big scene, claiming that Cris was trying to force his way into the house to talk to Paloma. She’s all simpery sweet in her protective auntie character. Paloma says she isn’t going to listen to him anyway; she’s tired of all the lies. Then he really does push his way into the house and says he hasn’t deceived her. He loved her mother and he loves her, too. Paloma yells that Mac didn’t tell her what was going on and she’ll never forgive them. I am not sure what makes her think she was entitled to know everything. If she ever spent 30 seconds on analytical thought, she would realize that a) the engagement happened very suddenly, and Mac died immediately afterward, and b) it was a very delicate situation, as Cris had not yet told the world at large that he was leaving the priesthood. But Paloma throws a snitfit at Cris and stomps away…heh, that’s how you can tell they really are father and teenage daughter. Carloca grins smarmily at Cris and he shoots death glares at her.

Orlando and Camila are happily honeymooning (the only kind of mooning Emo doesn’t know how to do) when Emo finally reaches them with the news that Cris and Nat are free. They are delighted. Well, now that Orly has spent three seconds thinking about his best friend, it’s back to the recreation. He puts his cell phone in Camila’s beach bag, which they abandon while they trek off to check out marine life.

Ol’ Crazy Cow tells Cris that now there is nothing stopping them from getting together. He says it’s amazing that she’s so stuck up that she can’t see that he is not in love with her. What’s even better, Carloca continues, she has saved herself for him! Never been with another man! He is neither surprised nor impressed. Virginity doesn’t make a woman more valuable, he says, good character and morals do. She says if he loves her (or just fakes like he does), she can guarantee that Paloma will love him and consider him a father again. “Estás loca. Absolutamente loca, de verdad!” he says, as he barely pulls back his fingers to avoid strangling her and walks out. Le sigh, says the purple one, I don’t want to get rid of anyone, but they leave me no choice!

Over breakfast, Romememena demands that Paloma convince Emiliano to return home and not divorce her. Paloma declines to get involved. Your husband, your problem, she says. Romi can’t believe she won’t help her dear friend. “You knew he didn’t love you when you married,” says Paloma.

Rafael is doing research about adoption and tells Luz it would be much easier for them to adopt Xochi together. She doesn’t want to; she wants to adopt all by herself. He asks why she’s so afraid to commit to him. After all, she is the one who is always telling him to take risks and go after what he wants. Luz is not shining brightly today, she’s just kind of whiny and stubborn, so Rafa leaves. She tells him not to be mad, which is always a surefire way to keep someone from being mad.

Romina whines that she just wants her baby to have a father. I’m surprised she still remembers she has a baby. Paloma finally blows her top. She is sick of Romi’s lies and manipulations! She didn’t have to force Emo to marry her for him to be a father to the baby, and she told all those lies just to hurt Paloma! Romina weakly volleys that Paloma deceived her, too. Paloma says it’s not the same. All she did was fall in love with Emo, and he wasn’t dating Romina at the time.

Emiliano breakfasts at the hotel with Anamar. He may not be having an affair, but he’s certainly feeding the gossip mill. She thinks he should move to Houston to run the new deal or whatever there. And, bonus, that way they could spend more time together! Eh? Oh, total coincidence; she’s planning to go to Houston to study! And he could get away from Romina! Emo doesn’t want to leave the baby, but he looks thoughtful.

Romina cranks up the waterworks. Please, please, I desperately need your help, Paloma! What can I do for my marriage? Give up, says Paloma. Let Emiliano go. Toodle-oo. She leaves and Romina flings dishes all over the floor.

Cris calls Rufi and asks her to come see him ASAP. Carlota is in the room, so Rufi goes on and on pretending she’s talking to Padre Benito and he wants her tamale recipe. Cris rolls his eyes a bit. I love that he is not hiding his snarky thoughts so much now that he isn’t a priest. Rufi finally hangs up and tells Carlota she’s going to the church to give PB a recipe. “Yes, I heard you a thousand times,” says Carlota. She doesn’t want Rufi getting any uppity ideas that she can just leave her work whenever she wants. “I know you already think very little of me, buh-bye,” says Rufi, and they have a snippy exchange over whether she is calling Carlota “señora” or “señorita” as she leaves.

Padre Benito is talking to someone who might be the bishop and they agree that Cris should be reinstated as a priest. The bishop (?) says it’s like the parable of the prodigal son. {Except completely not; did this bishop even read the Bible?}

Romina tries to call Camila, gets voice mail, and flings the phone. Not quite Sendel style, but she’s working on it.

Eric makes a ten-second appearance to mock Germán until Carloca and the other lawyer arrive. Thanks for trekking all the way down to the studio for that, Eric.

Romina leaves an urgent message on Orlando’s voicemail for them to call her immediately.

Carlota very formally tells Germy he is no longer her lawyer, nor a trustworthy man. Germán protests his dismissal and maintains that he did everything Carlota asked. Cris and Nat were declared innocent like she wanted, weren’t they? (The other lawyer is still in the room, and should be wondering what Carlota has to do with that case). Anyway, he’s still fired. She says she’s sorry, with a big grin.

Cris rushes Rufi inside and begs her to help him with Paloma. “I don’t know; she’s really stubborn,” says Rufi. Cris says he knows that Mac is Paloma’s mother, and he knows who the father is. In fact, he has met him, and it’s painful to think that Mac was intimate with that nasty dude. “Ehhh…sit down,” says Rufi. She tells him that Crueloca lied to them. That man is not Paloma’s father.

Cris asks Rufi if she’s saying that Paloma is his daughter. No, no, she clarifies, she is not saying that directly, because she promised she wouldn’t say. She is only VERY STRONGLY SUGGESTING that he investigate the matter himself and find out for sure.

Orlando finally checks his messages. They call Romina, and she cries that Emo has abandoned her and begs them to come home. Cami tries telling her to calm down, but she just gets more red and hysterical, then hangs up after demanding that they come immediately. Camila tells Orly that Emo left Romina. “Oh, yeah, he said he was going to divorce her,” Orlando remarks casually. “WHAT?! YOU KNEW?! AND YOU DIDN’T TELL ME?!” There is trouble in paradise.

Cris tries to figure out how he can get a DNA test. Eugenio arrives.

Rafa and his lawyer wait at the family court building for Diana to arrive to sign the divorce papers. Diana is still at home, frantically trying to call Samuel. He finally answers, and says he’s about to be able to give her the life of a queen, like she deserves. She squeals with glee and rushes out for her divorce.

Samuel and some other guy wear suits and talk shady business deals.

Germy and Carloca take their bickering into the street. His chasing her and whining does not help his case. So he threatens her with exposing her dirty deeds regarding Paloma’s inheritance. “Do I have to explain things to you with apples and sticks?” she asks. He’s just as guilty as she is, and would be judged more harshly for his unprofessional dealings. “So don’t try to blackmail me. Stay out of it, or you will suffer VERY serious consequences.”

Cris thanks Eugenio profusely for freeing him and Nat. Eugenio says it was Madeleine who got him to take the case. He asks Cris to try to make amends with her. Cris is reluctant, but he agrees to at least talk with her after Eugenio says it’s not just for her sake, but for his own peace of mind. He’ll just have regrets later if he doesn’t at least try while he still can. Then Cris asks Eugenio to help him find a certain man, although he doesn’t even know whether the name is his real one.

Doctor B packs up his office. He finds the engagement ring he gave Mac and decides to re-gift it to Paloma (not as an engagement ring).

Rufi tells Mac’s picture that she didn’t break her promise. She didn’t actually tell Cris that Paloma is his daughter, even though that would have been so much easier (yeah, Rufi, tell us about it).

Gabriel goes to Paloma’s house and gives her a birthday gift. It is a laptop computer. She tries to protest that it is too expensive, but he insists that she needs it for her studies. She says he’s the best teacher and she hopes to be close to him for the rest of her life, to keep learning from him. He says he also wants to be with her…for whatever time they spend together. He snuggles up close to show her how to use the computer, and they look into each other’s eyes, hovering inches apart, and…end credits.

Avances: Cris and Eugenio plot to unmask Carlota. Gabriel maybe kisses Paloma. Anamar definitely kisses Emiliano, and because he is an idiot galán, he has no powers of resistance.

Labels: amor

Rolu announces to Arni that he needs to repursue Xime and begs him to help write a love letter to Xime. Arni finally agrees if Rolu will turn over the clorox!!

Lalu writes a "love" letter to Arni, Xime reads it and her burned eyes tell us it's really a "lust" letter. She tells Lalu he can't write something like that, it's not from his heart but other body parts and that he needs a professional love consultant, her! Get your pen out Lalu, youpi will be writing a newpi!!

Papi and Con discuss Issy. Pa tells her to stay away from Moni. Coni blames her for evrything bad, but Pa is not swayed, he prohibits her from getting anywhere near our Monkey. Ooooh.

Papi tells her to forget about Vale and do yoga or pick up a sport. HA! Guess what she has...boxing, and she is going to knock the living sh.. out of Valentina Lopez, who is national champion. He all but laughs in her face. It takes years to reach that level he tells her, no way you'll do it, now cut it out and leave her be or you'll answer to me. Basically. Hrmmph.

Issy is spewing more venom at Mau...Mau saying she deserves her Pa, her saying that Pa abandoned her in the trash too. She then plays a little game, ok let's go right now to tell her everything, including how much I hate her. You want this? Of course our boy's balls shrivel and he leaves without saying a word.

Back to Rolu and Arni, he's trying to think of something to say. He looks at the photo for inspiration. He says beauty, my love, you arouse so many emotions in me that I wanted to write them down to make them more tangible for you. He continues on about her as a surprise box that he opens and she's kind and candid, he loves all of her. Arni realizes what he said to himself and drops the photo. Rolu says it's a masterpiece and asks again if he's not gay. Arni repeats it twenty times. Echo Sylvia's comment, um not worried about your bro and your wife eh? Nice.

Over at the restaurant Xime writes a similarly inspiring love note about his sensual aroma and his company being the most beautiful thing. This is too cute, so are these guys going to end up together? Anvils are pointing this way....

Speaking of more anvils, Estrella is at Televisa chatting with Angelis and Nesma about her getting the part of the lover. She is over the top excited to be an actress. The anvil is lowering, you have to be with us for the whole show. A little lower...It will last 8 -10 months. Lower still....You have to watch your figure and your image. You are single right? Good, so sometimes gals get pregnant and it affects production a lot. Boom the anvil has smacked our queen. Whoops. Well if you are pregnant you should tell us now. Ha..not at all allowed in the US to even make such insinuations or questions. Anyway...Estre lies of course.

Back at the house Marc is still lecturing Coni, look Issy is my friend and Moni is her daughter and that's all you need to know. Speak of the Monkey, here she is, what's this crap about my Mom being alive and faking her own death.

Jacqui and Tere are together in the vecinidad chatting about Britney Sofia, the new maid over at Coni's. Jacqui misses Tere. tere misses kids. No one misses Coni, Jacqui knows how everyone feels about her daughter. She was waiting for Nieves who hasn't shown up, but there she is with Cesar. Jacqui notes them smooching.

Back over to the cold house, Coni asks Papi what she should tell Valentina. He is shocked it's her. She remembers him as the lawyer talking to Nieves. Coni wants to know what he was doing talking to the Mama of Beto. Whoops, anvil time, Nieves is that tapujo's (subterfuge's) Ma??

Jacqui meets up with Nieves who has nothing good to say to her, thinking she is there on behalf of her daughter. Nopis. It's about her ex-husband Marc. Que? Marc is your ex hubby??

Ok now we go back to the dueling chicas. Vale finds out he's Coni's pa and thinks he's bad for faking being a lawyer, Beto is worth gold, the one who isn't worth anything is this bitter Momia. They break into a fight and like the good papa he stands in the middle of his two supposed hijas and keeps them apart.

Back at Xime's she arrives with the note and tells Arni to read it and go for it and not let what happened to her happen to him, whoops, that wasn't supposed to slip out, I think. They look at each other very seriously. He decides to go read upstairs. Xime recovers from her look towards him and tells Rolu that he doesn't want us to see his true reaction and hopefully he'll enjoy the letter. Rolu wants to talk again about the shares. He thinks she should sell them, the business isn't really hers. She gets an idea of what she needs to do but doesn't tell us. Rolu gives her the love note, but she is too excited about her idea and leaves. She'll read the card later.

Back at the stone house the girls are separated but that is not enough to let evil words slip out like how Mona stole a married man but Momia got pregnant by her lover. Papa asks if she is pregnant and she says no. Mona reminds it's because she lost the baby, but she wonders if it was an accident or deliberate... Momia denies this to her Pa - this goes back and forth until he finally makes her say that was the worst mistake of her life.

And like magic we are in a park at night staring at that mistake aka Beto and Estrella walks up. They seem to talk to each other while merely talking to themselves. This was quite cool. Neither wants to go back to the vecinidad. She about to lose all of her dreams when they find out she's pregnant, and he swears off women forever, they ripped out his heart. He can't believe he lost his fantasmita, she can't believe she's having a bebita. In unison, un hijo, mi hijo. She for the one that comes, he for the one that has gone. Masterpiece.

Back again Papa Marc can't believe that Coni was pregnant and never told him. She asks what he would have done, come to Mexico to console her? He says of course. She says yeah you didn't even come for my wedding. Val says she's off, she just wanted to tell her not to mess with her Ma. Coni says she can't answer the questions re Ma, but ask Mau, he can tell her. marc escorts Moni off.

Xime is at Mau's new pad. He tells her he's in the street that Coni took it all. She curses Coni's badness, but...she can help. you are not in the street. I'm giving you my 10% of Grupo Sermeno!!! Claro que si!!!

Marc wants to invite Val to coffee, he wants to chat. In typical rebellious fashion, she refuses. he worries about her late at night. She says I'm a stranger why are you so worried. He's proud she's a boxer. Again why. Please accept my invitation, you are wrong. I want us to get to know each other better. He tells her she doesn't know who she is and what she means in his life. Whoa.

Labels: gancho

Folks, I have gotten mighty tired of the bellowing baritones belting out our theme song.

We review MJ's testy few minutes at the restaurant and Alex's ham-fisted, bungling, overbearing attempts to get her to remember him.

She yells that step-daddy Jorge SAVED her and how terrible that she's been torn from the bosom of her loving family!

Poor MJ. First marrying Bruno-the-faux-Alejandro, then having to fake it with the real Alejandro, getting thrown out of the house pregnant, then slapped around, kicked when she was pregnant, stolen and drugged etc., it's no wonder she's testy.

Lisette and her new chemo buddy bond at the clinic.

Gabriel tells Paula how successful his exhibit was: one sale of a sculpture netted as much as three months of his usual work. Soon he'll be able to buy a car! Paula says when he gets his car they can go out and celebrate. Oh, ye material girl.

Doc Hernan talks about studies, treatments, a brain scan to figure out how to help MJ. Maybe they should force Jorge to help cure her, threatening him with the closing of his clinic. [But then, what would happen to those stacks of zombies he's got in there?]

Bruno and Elena arrive at Casa Lombardo and MJ, delighted, flies into Bruno's arms: "Thank goodness you've come, get me out of here!"

Luckily, Vic and Alex rush up in time, and therefore Elena is forced to make nice and get introduced to everybody.

The servants regurge the whole current plot tangle.

Sitting in the living room like civilized people, everybody struggles to have a conversation. It's tense.

Alex asks about Bruno's supposed business in Toluca which turned out to be bogus. Bruno says he was an innocent dupe. Alex asks why he used his middle name, Bruno says it was because he didn't want Alex to find him and ruin everything as he always does.

Elena presents her story (that MJ is actually Sandra, saved by Jorge, newly awoken from a drug-overdose coma) several times. Vic and Alex present their side several times. Elena says it was Ulises who found Sandra in a hospital and spirited her away to be saved by Jorge.

Alex and Doc bring up the scar! Bruno's comeback: "Sandra could have been wounded in the same place." Doc: "A gynecological exam will prove she's a mother."

MJ doesn't want any of this. She pounds on Alex, says she hates him, and runs upstairs.

So then, a satisfying fist-fight and roll on the floor, Bruno and Alex yelling "I'll kill you!" "No, me, I'LL kill YOU!" etc. The captions read: "Blows and complaints." Elena and Vic agree at last: they both yell "Enough already!"

Elena tells her story again and says she'll call the police if she doesn't get the girl back. Alex: "Go ahead and call them, but she's my wife and mother of my son and she leaves here over my dead body."

Bruno and Elena give up and leave, very very grumpy. They phone Jorge and give him the bad news. He's grumpy too and says, predictably, that Bruno is an idiot, "You should have warned us about the scar." And Elena was an idiot too, to say she'd call the police. "That doctor can prove it's MJ and then you can kiss the $$$$ goodbye." Bruno whines: "She likes me better, and anyway, she and Alex are divorced."

Bruno goes to Maura's house. His brilliant plan: they'll all keep saying MJ is Sandra till the last possible second. Ulises will back them up, he's been in it for the money all along. "Whoah, I thought you said Ulises was dead!" "No, he's just resting. [No, actually "in a coma."] We'll wake him up, use him, and then send him to jail."



Jorge and an assistant hover over Ulises, who's coming back to life, but it will take a few days, and he's kind of weak. If he doesn't revive fully, they can always glue his feet to the floor (see video)...

The good guys have a final living-room pow wow prior to Uncle Emiliano's departure, yes, he is going back home, he has to talk to gramps - but first, he kneels to Vic and says she's beautiful, sexy, smart... Fer and the Doc glare furiously as Emiliano kisses Vic's hand...

Roberto is in a hotel in Merida, getting ready to move into his new house. He felt awkward in the big house with Raquel around. Paula says she's sad in the big house too, so she's staying with Pedro the Pitiful. Roberto is anguishing about Vicky Jr. Paula says of course he should get her.

He says again, "you don't know what I've done..." and ends up telling her about his "experimentation" and about being bisexual - Paula looks queasy... she asks if he's "still that way."

He says honesty is the most important thing, and that if he's ever in a relationship again he will be completely himself, hiding nothing. Paula says she accepts him and that he'll find a woman - he's so sexy and tender - and Paula likes him the way he is... she cries...

Good ol' Roberto. "Paula, I don't want to hurt you... I love you too, but in a different way... Are we still friends?" Paula says yes.

Next day, MJ wakes up (still in her dress from the restaurant) and there, in her face yet again, is Alex. He makes headway this time! She softens as he says he's desperate, he loves her... he cries... "You can't have forgotten our kisses..." [I personally think he should have shaved...] but anyway they kiss and MJ likes it plenty. Then she backtracks: "I am confused. I was promiscuous, so I'd probably like kissing any man. My mother wouldn't lie to me..."

Alex mentions her dad. She's astounded: "You know my father?" "Of course. He's a simple man with a good heart." Again the donkey to the wheat: "Do you really feel nothing when I embrace you? Look me in the eyes! I love you, don't you feel it?" [Oh, so this is the spell (sortilegio) of the novela's title - the spell MJ is under, which must be broken.]

After a brief bad-guy scene in which, again, Bruno was stupid not to remember the scar... and what good will Ulises be... and they can't denounce the Lombardo's since there is proof ...

... back to Alex and MJ. She looks much more tender, but asks woefully: "What if I'm not what you think I am?" He reassures her that she is.

Fer and his uncle fear the news about faux-Sandra would kill the grandfather.

Raquel regurges plot with Maura and Katia. Raquel is electrified to hear Ulises is back in the picture. Where is he? "Hidden." [Resting.]

It's another day. Roberto decorates his new home. Paula calls, asks if he's lonely. "Better alone than in bad company." (Meaning Raquel.) He tells Paula she should start going out. "You can count on my friendship, but I want you to find someone to make you happy."

[Commercial: girls playing American football in bikinis? ¡Qué colmo!]

Alex is finally going to go to work - he figures, correctly, that he shouldn't hang around bugging MJ all the time. Vic is upset, it's hard to wait, she wants Tony to get baptised and there's the wedding...

Doc shows up with pills for MJ, pills to treat her memory loss - "One pill a day, without fail, don't interrupt the treatment for anything!" he warns portentously. [Are you as uncomfortable as I am to see that "our" team drugs MJ as much as Jorge did? How many nights has she been drugged to sleep here?]

So Alex goes back upstairs; he's glad to see MJ is eating her breakfast. He flirtatiously drinks some of her juice. Then he tells her: "You need a brain scan, and also these pills." She predictably doesn't want either.

She asks, "Is it true we're divorced?" and when he says yes, she flies into another rage and decides he's been doing it all for money. He despairs: "we can't exchange two words without a fight," then tells her about her knife wound and how Bruno would only donate blood in exchange for the divorce and the presidency.

Finally, he asks her to go see Tony, who needs his mother. "He's an innocent baby, none of these intrigues are his fault!"

Labels: sortilegio

Well this afternoon, the titanic battle continues. Will Love triumph over Hate? Ultimately, you know it will. We have that telenovela guarentee. But in individual cases, "results may vary" as the ads always say. Constanza is still dedicated to the dark side of vengeance, in spite of Beto's pleas. And ditto for Isabel, in spite of Mauricio's noble arguments. Can these heartless females be saved? Evidently we've got a few more months before we find out.

So, mientras tanto, what happened today? Beto continues his very logical, very wise argument for dropping all vengeance. What do you gain by hurting people? he asks. Well, for Connie, quite a lot of satisfaction, evidently. So much so that she's willing to lose Beto, the love of her life, to get it. She's taken Mau's money and kids. All that remains is to break his heart by causing Monita to stop loving him. And she'll do that by betraying the pact Mauricio made with Monita's mother. Two birds with one stone. Beto's not happy. He doesn't want to spend his life with a lady whose every waking moment is spent figuring out how to hurt others. Well, Connie's not for you, then my man.

Zoom over to Xime's apartment. But she's not there, of course. Rolu is, ensconced in his wheelchair and Marcos arrives to firm up their telephone agreement. Yes, Rolu will follow through on his plan to get Xime to sell her shares in Grupo Sermeño. Not for money, no...he wants nothing from Marcos. But he DOES want Xime to be completely dependent on him financially. That way she'll stay in the marriage. (Just in passing, recent research here shows that marriages are likely to last longer when the wife has a career and even more financial clout than the man. I have no idea what this means. But it's interesting.)

Meantime, our good-time gal is spending more and more time away from home....and with Lalu! Can Carlos' theory be on target? For some reason, she's feeding Lalu a bunch of guff about Arny being entranced with him. To what end? I understand why Rolu is promoting this pseudo- romance. But I don't get Ximena's part in it. Oh well, I'm frequently confused. Anyway, the conversation veers into eternal love territory and Lalu is already envisaging the bathroom towel set monogrammed with "L" for lujuria (lust, desire) and Lalu and "A" for amor and Arnoldo. Our romantic Ximena suggests "L" for Love instead and there the matter rests. Except for the biggie. YES, IT'S TRUE. SHE'S SICK OF ROLU. Oh migawd, I still can't believe it. She finds him "empalagoso" (sticky sweet and cloying). Man, whatever happened to that mad desire for our bad boy? Will be interesting to see where this goes.

The debate between Beto and Connie continues. Getting pretty rough, frankly. She's vowing to get the best of Monita in the ring, proving that she's better than the "asquerosa cucaracha" (revolting cockroach) not just in status and class but in battle. Beto says "over my dead body". Fine, snaps Connie. If I have to destroy you in order to get to her, I will. Okay, Elna June, we're gonna need more than chapstick to fix this lady up!

Lighthearted break time: Estrella is all dolled up and off to her audition. And Nieves and Don Cesar are in Xochilmico (sp?) for some quality time together. (I love Nieves and Don Cesar but you know, he is still married to a very nice lady that we met earlier in this novela.)

Okay. Back to the debate between Isabel and Mau. She's arguing that Hate is stronger than Love. He's arguing the contrary. Nice mirror image of the Beto-Constanza battle. But we finally get a peek into Isabel's murky romantic history. She's consumed by hate because she was mistreated, not only by those dogs who attacked her, but by the man she loved with all her heart.

With that teaser, the writers flip us back to Beto and Connie. He's angry because he realizes how little he really meant to Connie. She never did anything for him. On the contrary, she did him the enormous favor of being with a woman like her...of a higher class, she counters. And what's more, if he chooses to have a life at her side, he can have luxury, travel, money cars. No dice. You'll never have to work again! (Beto's beginning to look interested.) But nope, our barrio galan stands firm. You have to choose Connie. Love for me or vengeance. No dice on her part. Now the party starts getting rough. Can't believe I saw you as the mother of my children, he muses. And that's why Mauricio stopped loving you too. You're hot but you're not worth taking to bed. Thank God my little Betito is already in heaven and doesn't know what a harpy his mother is, he continues. But I forgive you...your darkness, your hate. You never learned to love. You're completely empty. Whew!. you'd think Constanza would just curl up and die but she holds her grudging ground. Gotta give her points for persistence.

Brief relief with an Arny/Rolu conversation. Big bro is getting advice from little bro on how to win Ximena back. Love letters, wine, flowers, chocolate, massages with warm scented oils (sure you're not gay Arny?) Upshot. Rolu is considering a love letter.

Back to Beto. He's momentarily distracted by the French maid, Brittney Sofia, who's being sent to answer the door. Enter Papa Marcos. He's horrified to find this lowlife naco in his daughter's home. He calls Beto a "poca cosa" and our boy fires back that Connie is "muy poca cosa" for him. Exit Beto. More outrage from Papa to come. But not before we flip a few more scenes.

First, the barrio. Jacqui's looking for Nieves. Doesn't find her and goes off with Mona for a coffee (Since our little boxer doesn't have the whiskey or cognac our foxy lady would prefer).

And Mauricio and Isabel continue their long-winded debate. He's still arguing for her re-appearance in Monita's life, coming clean with the past, so to speak. She's still arguing that Connie's no threat because "the man" she's talked about will control her. We have to wait while the truth is leaked out drip by drip, but here are the preliminaries. For a long time she didn't know if Monita was the result of rape or the child of the man she loved. But that man betrayed her. Accused her of being at fault in the attack, leading the men on. When he learned she was pregnant, he kicked her out. That's why she hates Monita.

Back to the barrio. (These writers are such a tease.) Jacqui and Monita are bonding over coffee and their mutual dislike of Jacqui's daughter. Jacqui admits she's no "pera en dulce" (sweetheart) but Connie's nasty qualities come from her father. Monita then brings up the big question. Beto's like my brother--do you think Connie really loves him? Answer: Well, love's not a priority for Connie. Vengeance is. That brings up the threat Jacqui talked about earlier. Moni thinks it was being thrown out of the neighborhood but Jacqui drops the bomb that Connie believes Moni's mother is still alive. Outrage. Don't mess with my mom. She's dead. It broke my heart. I held her ashes in my hand. How dare she mess with my memories of my mother. Jacqui agrees. And admits her envy. Monita gave her bone marrow for her mother. Connie wouldn't even give Jacqui the leftover fat from a liposuction! Yikes, what a way with words, this lady.

Another lighthearted break. We see Estrella first performing in another French maid's costume, then in a slinky dress. Fending off a sleazeball until he tells his wife about her. Audition goes well. Great triumph. All excited. Everyone smiling. Cut!

Back to Drama Central. Connie's cozying up to Papito, asking him to not be angry with her for letting Beto in the house. Those people rob, points out Dad. Can't believe you're going out with such trash. You must take after your mother. Yes, he did come to rob me, Papi, and to beg me to take him back. But I kicked him out. That's why he was so angry. But now....dum di dum dum...tell me what Isabel was at your hotel.

And to wrap up the episode, we finally hear the rest of Isabel's story. Before kicking her out, Marcos did give her money "to take care of it". But she couldn't bring herself to have an abortion. What if it was his child? No way to prove it then. But after the bone marrow transplant, the doctor kept some blood and she had it tested. Monita is indeed Marcos' child. That's the reason he's come here. He's the true father of Valentina.

And we're all looking impactados....or would be if we hadn't already figured this out a few episodes ago.

Previews:
Estrella has the role in the new telenovela!
Marcos tells Connie she can't touch Valentina.

Vocabulary:

pescar una infección= catch an infection "pescar" means to fish so it's interesting how it's similar to our English phrase
trepadora =social climber (Connie talking about Monita)
caer come un costal de piedras = to fall like a ton of bricks (lit. a bag of stones)
la calentura = sexual arousal, Beto talking about Connie.
sin vuelta de hoja= lit. without a turn of the leaf, without changing
empalagoso = sickly sweet, cloying (could this be our Rolu!?)
esquivando los guamazos de la vida = Monita's answer to Jacqui's "How are things?" Basically means avoiding the little irritations, roadblocks in life. "guama" means nuisance and "guamazo" is an icky intensifier of the word
te van a caer los ojos = Connie chiding Beto for ogling the French maid lit. your eyes are going to fall out
salió de su papa = she took after her dad
no soy una pera en dulce = lit. I'm not a pear in syrup. I'm no sweetheart
lujuria = lust, lechery

Dicho of the Day:

Del dicho al hecho hay mucho trecho. Lit. It's a long way from the word to the deed.
We say: Easier said than done.
So will Rolu win back Ximena? Well.....Del dicho al hecho hay mucho trecho.

Labels: gancho