Caray, Caray!

Latifa burns the expensive supper and goes to pieces. She blames it on the oven, the pans.. Anything, to keep from collapsing into a heap of weep. Her loving, long-suffering husband Desi says, “No, Lucy, I like my meat well done! (click here)” O algo asi. Actually he promises to pick up dinner at the restaurant every night, so no one will find out. Ali overhears but decides it would be wise to NOT share his wisdom in this situation. I like Ali. But he does suggest to Latifa that they ask Zoraida for some recipes.

Jade, who was supposedly sleeping, walks through the front door, carrying bags, followed by the bigger bag, Nariza. Everyone cringes to see her, but the rest hide it better than Jade. Ali asks her how she got outside, and Jade “dissimilates.” Badly. Ali adds it to his tally of suspicious happenings.

At a bar on the beach, Lucas tells Marisa about how he met Jade, and that he rarely gets to see her because she’s not supposed to leave the house. Marisa speculates that it must be horrible to be involved with someone you never get to see (in contrast to someone like me who is VERY available.). Ahem. He asks about her life: college? Novio? No, she explains, no one has been able to match up to Diego. “But with you everything is wonderful.” Ahem. Lucas suggests they leave and she assumes that her plan is working perfectly. Except that he walks away without waiting for her to join him. She sees she’ll need to ramp it up, She says that if he were Diego they’d… and she kisses him. Not a first kiss kind of kiss. More of the kiss the hero gives the sweet young thing just before she loses her virginity. Lucas’ answer? “Ahem.” So she runs off and Lucas just stands there, perplexed.

I’m trying to figure out what her dress looks like. I know! You know those really thick rubber bands they put around broccoli in the grocery store? Well, I think her dress is made of one of those. Or maybe two. Maybe. But certainly no more than two.

Cut to the lab. Albieri looks through the microscope and considers going through with the cloning. He debates with himself. The demon and the angel, Molly Brown and Molina, sit on his left and right shoulders, urging him to go through with it, or stop. He imagines the glory and fame he’ll get for creating the first human clone. We shall call this scene “Albieri debates.” Whenever I say that in this recap, come back and reread this paragraph since they repeat the same scene.

Luisa is waiting up for Albieri. And waiting. She calls the lab but he doesn’t answer the phone. The distraction breaks his concentration, and he fails to implant Lucas’ DNA in the ovule he’s working on. He gets frustrated, shouts “Arg!”, and wonders if he should give up because he hasn’t got what it takes. We shall call this scene, “Albieri says ‘Arg!’ “ Fortunately he has 32 eggs to work with.

Dora is excited that her baby could already exist. Vicky tells her it’s a locura for a baby to start life inside a refrigerator. She tells Vicky she’ll look at Osvaldo’s picture every day so her baby looks like him. Vicky suggests, “Wouldn’t it be better to look at a papacito like Dr Armando.. Oops! Ricky Martin.”

Albieri says “Arg!” Albieri debates.

I find it interesting, that even though it took years of research and a big team of specialists to clone a sheep in the real world, Albieri is cloning the very first human, all by himself, sleep deprived, timing his procedure with a wristwatch which has five-minute increments, with eggs that were harvested for IVF, not cloning, with skin cells from a possibly cancerous mole, in a Petri dish that has been endlessly jostled as Albieri debates, “to be or not to be,” while he wipes his sweaty brow with his gloved hand, the hand that is doing the procedure. Oops, beanie slipping. Tighten it a little more.

Albieri says “Arg!” Albieri debates.

Leo tells Enrique how difficult his grief is. Enrique says Diego communicated with his friend who is a medium, and said that he’s happy and will soon be reincarnated. Okey-dokey. Leo says Enrique was more sensible back when he was drunk and high.

Albieri succeeds in inserting Lucas’ cells into the egg. He dances around the room triumphantly, shouting, "I made a clone of Lucas!" Visions of Rocky at the top of the steps (click here), shouting victoriously. At this moment in the show, my son walked into the room and asked, “Is that the mad scientist?” You don’t have to be a rocket scientist..

I’m reminded of the priest who ditched church to play golf. St Peter tattled on him, “GOD! Look what he’s doing!”
God: I see it.
Peter: Aren’t you going to do something to punish him?
God: Yes. Watch this.
The priest tees off and gets a hole-in-one.
Peter: GOD! I thought you were going to punish him! You gave him a hole-in-one!
God: Yes. But who can he tell?
Albieri has apparently reached his life’s dream, but he can’t tell anyone.

At Miami’s Little Morocco, Nariza keeps trying to get the upper hand in the conversation, but Ali keeps slapping her down with a velvet glove. Back in Big Morocco, Said is chatting with Abdul about Nariza’s doubts regarding Jade. He assures Abdul, Jade pleases him very much, and he will marry her, regardless of Nariza’s disapproval or anything else. Abdul silently ponders the “anything else” part, but tells Said that if that is his decision, adalante, but he will need to teach his wife how to behave. Abdul says that if there is no grave charge against her, he gives his blessing to the marriage, but he will not permit Jade to bring disgrace to their family.

Rosa reveals why she doesn’t want Lucas to marry Jade - he’ll move far away and they won’t see him anymore.

Nariza barges into Jade’s bedroom and tells Latifa that she made the bed all wrong, and besides, she doesn’t know how to do anything right.

Albieri worships his creation and imagines all the glory he’ll receive. Albieri debates. He concludes that he must destroy this clone. He takes it to the sink to pour it away, debating all the way, but he can’t bring himself destroy his crowning achievement. He procrastinates, “I’ll get rid of it tomorrow.”

It’s 5 AM, and Luisa is still waiting up for Albieri. He’s on the pier, pondering. He gets home and talks to his wife (what a concept!). He asks whether she thinks a human clone might already exist. She reminds him what he said at a conference in Chicago. Human cloning is theoretically possible, but it’s an aberration, because before there was a successful one, there would most likely be many abortions and many babies born with serious birth defects. Albieri rationalizes, what if it was for a really good reason, like a father lost a son and could get him back. (Bite your tongue, Paula.)

Jade and Lucas are on the beach. She warns that Ali will soon take her back to Morocco, and they’ll never see each other again. IOW, what are you waiting for, Buster? Lucas claims that he’s really trying, but gee, shucks, no jobs have fallen into his lap. He mentions going out with Marisa last night, and let’s just say that doesn’t sit well with Jade. Lucas decides maybe he shouldn’t tell Jade about the ignition kiss Marissa gave him. She says she will not tolerate sharing him with anyone. He teases her and they play in the surf.

Luisa brings Albieri his breakfast. He’s curled up, fetal. She’s shocked that he didn’t prepare Dora’s embryos. Albieri tries to blow her off.

Latifa and Ali talk about the situation. Ali is controlling his temper, not giving Jade the punishment she deserves. Latifa pipes up that Jade only thinks about herself, no one else, and Ali agrees. Ali settles on a plan. Westerners have no patience, so if he keeps Jade from seeing him, after awhile he’ll get tired of waiting and forget about her. That Ali, he’s one smart baklava.

Luisa takes a call from Dr Sylvia. She returned early from the conference. Albieri intends to go back to work without sleeping, but he sits down on the bed and falls asleep, and Luisa doesn’t waken him since Sylvia is covering the clinic. She says, “There‘s nothing important you have to do today.” (I did that once. I’d been awake 40 hours, no kidding. I sat down on the bed for just a minute, I didn’t even lie down, and the next thing I knew, it was 14 hours later.)

At the clinic, Sylvia wonders why there is only one embryo, what happened to the others? Just then, Dora arrives for her procedure. Sylvia will proceed with just one.

Cris meets her friends by the pool. Norma can’t wait to echar la chisme, she saw Leo and a buddy out last night, with two hotties. Cris says she’ll find that woman and bust her face. Today Cris is not wearing green eye shadow. Does anyone remember the MASH episode where a practical joker put ink on Col. Potter's binocular eyepieces, so that he got gobs of black ink on his eyelids when he used them? Well, I think Cris borrowed Col. Potter's binoculars.

Leo counsels Lucas, and Ali counsels Jade, that this choice is unwise and they will find love somewhere else. Just then Marisa arrives. She tries to explain to Lucas what happened last night, she felt like she was with Diego. She apologizes and insists that he go to the beach with her, which he does.

Albieri wakes up and is surprised by how late it is. He races through the clinic like OJ at the airport. But I guess OJ was in better physical condition; Albieri arrives too late, just as Sylvia finishes implanting the embryo in Dora. Dora thanks Albieri, “Ya sé que fue usted quien creó a mi hijo.” I know you are the one who created my son.

Labels: clon

Like a warm desert breeze from the west, she enters…a cloud of dark hair, eyes alert for any opportunity to snark, un-corseted bosoms heaving with mirth, fingers poised above the keyboard…she is Keel-haulin' Kat, your Tuesday night recapper!**

First, review: Regina begs Aimee to swear that if she marries Renato, she won't screw around on him--and Aimee's an idiot if she doesn't figure out what this really means.

Rod and Noel are having some guy time at a café. Rod says he has a hard time coming back to the finca because of his memories of Maria del Rosario. A nearby dude named Raul comes over to say hello. He heard that a businessman was on the same boat as Rod, and he's interested in building a casino. Rod loves that idea--it would be a good place for boys' night out. Rod is convinced the owner of the boat must be a total barbarian.

Juan waits impatiently for Aimee.

Aimee waits impatiently for Regina to fall asleep. She keeps replaying Renato's confession of love over and over in her head and crying. Aimee wonders what's upsetting Regina…not because she really cares, just because she wants her to go to sleep so she can get some sweet, savage lovin'.

Clemencia chats with the Virgen. She asks her to give Regina strength to survive Renato being in love with Aimee.

Aimee thought bubbles that her "savage" doesn't know anything about her, or he would have busted in there already. Yeah, he totally would have.

Juan sees a light up in the hills.

A man in a vest and pants tells a man dressed like one of the fishermen that if he doesn't find out who's been stealing from him, the fisherman will pay. Since the man keeps his face in shadow, we don't know who he is.

Aimee makes it down to the beach and Juan grabs her and tells her to be quiet or they'll get caught. He tells her he thought he saw some lights earlier. Aimee pretty much blows him off. Juan starts interrogating her about what took her so long. Aimee, as usual, blames Regina for not going to sleep quickly. Juan jokes, "What sin did she commit that wouldn't let her sleep?" Aimee starts to tell Juan about Regina making her swear, but she's got a short attention span and he's got an unbuttoned shirt. She says she wants to eat him up with kisses. He says a lot of stuff I can't hear because of the surf. They suck face.

Fisherman-looking guy interrogates a bunch of other guys about who took something. One guy looks too shifty and the others figure it was him. First guy says he'll pay, but then a man in a suit walks in. It's Don Fulgencio, of the trampy wife who was making eyes at Renato the other day. Fulgencio stabs a random guy, not the one being accused of stealing.

Aimee is corsetless, but that doesn't hold onto Juan's attention when he sees the light go on up in the hills again. Aimee threatens to leave, and this gets his attention again.

The other dudes carry the dead dude out. It's hard when they don't have names. I guess I could call them the gun runners. Deputy Head Gun Runner comes in and reports to Don Fulgencio that the house nearby appears to be occupied, and there are lights on. Fulgencio gets upset and says he picked this hiding place because that house was vacant. He tells DHGR their interests are in danger.

Madame Marlene is scoping out her new house of ill repute. One of the girls gets very excited about the house having a piano and a stage. She's also excited about not having to pretend to be something she's not anymore. The other two girls agree with her, although…the one who was flirting with Federico on the boat did like that he thought she really was a decent girl. Madame Marlene tells the gals to save the smiles for their new clients because soon they will be starting up the new branch of Madame Marlene's House (London, Paris, Veracruz). The girls bid Madame a good night, laughing all the while at their imitation of decent ladies. Madame Marlene wonders what Rosenda's life must be like.

Noel and Rod come home and hand their hats to Rosenda. Rod gets an eyeful and acts like he might like to have more than that. When she leaves, he asks Noel who she is. When he finds out, he thought bubbles that she's the daughter of the woman who stole his coins.

Regina wakes up sweating and gasping. She notices that Aimee isn't in bed. She wonders where she would have gone at this hour.

Aimee, now dressed, but not bothering to put her corset back on, has a moonlit walk on the beach with Juan. Juan is very curious to know what was going on earlier with Regina. He comments that the two of them are so very different. Aimee wants him to quit talking about Reggie. Ha! About time you got to know what it feels like! Aimee would rather he talk about himself. For example, why did he decide to call himself "Juan del Diablo." He doesn't care for the question. He confesses that he is originally from Veracruz. Aimee asks what he does for a living, and says he looks like a fisherman. Juan says that's enough questions from her. He needs to know if she's talked to her dad yet, what her name is, where she lives. Aimee won't tell him where she lives or he'll show up and cause a scandal. Juan wants her to swear that no one and nothing can separate them. Aimee whines for him to let her go because he's hurting her. She says he's "her" savage. They suck face some more. He says he's going on a trip tomorrow, for something important that will keep him away for a while, but he'll be back soon. He will tell her that it's not another woman. Aimee wants to know what the big mystery of his life is. He says someday, she'll know. Aimee says she can't come see him early to say goodbye. Juan won't let her go without promising she will, so she does. Juan says he'll be waiting for her and Aimee agrees they'll see each other on the beach. Juan keeps pulling her back for more kisses.

Juan walks the beach in his proto-Speedo the next morning while the fishermen tell him to hurry up and ask who he's waiting for. Juan finally gives up waiting and starts swimming for the boat. One of the fishermen says the boat doesn't have a name. While swimming, Juan says they'll name the boat…Osmel? Like the guy who's one of the judges on Nuestra Belleza Latina? I guess I'll have to wait for them to paint the name on the side to find out.

Regina comes downstairs and tells Renato and Aimee that she won't be going out with them, since she'd rather stay and take some photos. Aimee rolls her eyes and says, "let's go, already," and Renato lets himself be pulled along. Regina watches them and cries.

Aimee and Renato ride horses and chat.

Regina takes pictures of a worker in the fields. Aimee and Renato end up where Regina is and Regina gets caught crying by Remigio.

Gabriel goes to see Noel and tells him that he's the agent of Santiago's son. He says that he's in town, but is busy doing Rod's daughter. No, he says he's busy with other matters right now. He asks Noel not to inform Mr. Montes de Oca until all three of them are able to meet FACE TO FACE. He says it in a menacing way, like Noel should be shaking in his boots.

Jimena gives Gypsy Dearest a bunch of money that she earned telling fortunes. Gypsy Dearest says she'd better get back out there and get some more money or GD will turn her over to the knife throwing guy.

Rod toasts to the future happiness of the couple--Regina and Federico. Everyone else joins in the toast but Regina. Rod says they've got to pick a date. Regina interrupts him and says she's been telling him since the boat that she won't marry Fed. She announces that since Rod threatened her with the convent, she's decided to go join up of her own free will and no one or nothing will make her change her mind. She says she'd rather be a nun than marry someone she doesn't love. Everyone sits there with their mouths hanging open as we go to commercials.

When we get back, Rod asks her what she's on about. Reggie says she'd rather go to a convent than be shackled to someone for life that she doesn't love. Rod says love doesn't exist, it's nothing more than the worst pain a person can inflict on another. Regina asks if there was someone in his life who didn't return his love. Rod slaps her and really freaks out the rest of the family, as if they weren't freaked out enough already. Rod says she will marry Fed, because he says so. Regina acts like she's about to say something, but doesn't get it out before everyone sits back down. Then she says she won't marry Federico and leaves the dining room.

Regina runs upstairs and kneels at the foot of her bed. She prays to God to give her peace and let her into his house so that the pain in her heart can be healed and her love for Renato can end. She asks for her heart to be cleaned of human love. She wants to devote her life to helping others in His name.

Rodrigo declares that Regina won't get her way. He's going to go talk to her right away and if he has to, he'll drag her in to the wedding! Leonarda agrees with him and says if he doesn't put his foot down now, she's going to get completely out of hand. Oh, shut up, Leo. Rodrigo says he can't believe this is happening when all he wants is to make sure she's happy and he's convinced that Federico is the best man for her. Federico says Rod's doing him a favor. Rod says he's going to go upstairs right now and talk to her. Noel asks him to wait until he calms down and asks if he can talk to Regina for Rod. Rod agrees. Rod is a brainless idiot. Does it not occur to him to wonder what kind of man would put up with all this drama instead of saying "You know what, there are plenty of other girls in this town and I don't need to be stuck with your daughter!" Why does he not find it suspicious that Fed seems to have a total lack of pride and is willing to marry someone who doesn't want him. If he's such a good catch, shouldn't he have some other prospects lined up?

Regina kisses her medal of the Virgin and says goodbye to Renato. She says she's made this decision for him. Noel comes in and Regina hugs him and cries.

Rodrigo apologizes to Fed for the scene and the humiliation. Fed says Regina is just confused, but she'll end up loving him. His love for her is so great that he's willing to do anything for her. Yuck. Rod hugs him. Rod walks Fed to the door and tells him not to be a stranger.

Jimena plies her wares in the town square and sees Gabriel. Gabriel tries to get away, but Jimena recognizes him and tells him he met a girl on a boat and he'll see her again. Gabriel asks where and when and Jimena gives him a meaningful look and says she's closer than he thinks. Gabriel, however, would like GPS coordinates to his dream girl. Jimena whispers in his ear "I can't tell you" and runs off. Gabriel looks at his hand and smiles.

Federico gets driven home and says to himself that he needs some help and there's only one person who can help him.

Fed goes to visit Don Fulgencio, but Don F isn't available. His wife, however, is. She reminds him of when they used to go out. Don F comes in while they're standing just a little too close together. Fed says he's got to talk to Don F right away.

Leonarda tells Rod to hurry up and whip Reggie into shape. Rod thinks he should just let her join a convent and she'll be begging to come back and marry Fed inside of a day.

Aimee has her medal of the Virgen pinned right under her cleavage. She claims that she's never taken it off since Renato gave it to her. Dumbass is probably going to believe it, too. Renato is happy to hear it. He says he's pretty upset about Regina's attitude. Aimee tells him that Regina is "caprichosa"(impulsive) and "voluble" (fickle). Renato doesn't think so. He always thought she was sweet and obedient. He can understand her feelings about not wanting to marry Fed if she's in love with someone else. Aimee says that someone must be someone from Spain, who she's never going to see again anyway, so she ought to just marry Fed like Daddy wants.

Noel begs Regina to please confide in him and he'll never tell anyone. Regina says she's completely in love with another man, but he chose someone else and that's why she'd rather not be around him so that he can be happy with the woman his heart chose. She wants him to be happy, even if he's not with her.

Renato is surprised that Aimee's never had a boyfriend and never been in love. Yes, Renato, and she's also the owner of a very famous bridge that you can buy from her for a low, low price. Aimee says she was at an all-girls' school with very strict rules and besides, daddy would never let her date anyone. Daddy watches the two of them talking together with an inscrutable expression. Aimee says that her heart still doesn't know what love is. Renato says she has a clean, pure soul and any man would fall at her feet. Aimee says she'd love to hook up with that guy. She'd really like to know love.

Oh, they named the ship Lusbel. Beautiful light?

Fulgencio says Fed's in some financial trouble. Fed says he's desperate. Fully asks what he'd be willing to do for money. Fed will do anything Fully orders him to. So Fully says they'll meet tomorrow and he'll send word about the time and place. "Thanks, I owe you one!" says Fed. Doña F comes in pretending not to know who Fed is and asking about him. Fulgencio says he's a guy from Europe who needed some help.

Rod tells Noel to just let her go to a convent. Noel says all Regina wants right now is not to get married, so can't Rod cut her some slack and let her pick her own guy? Well, Rod's not into all that hippie dippie free love crap, so it's his way or the convent!

The fishermen pull up empty nets. Juan says they won't go back until they have a decent catch, but then he agrees to stop so they can rest and eat.

Regina comes to Rod's office. Rod says that Noel has told him that she's determined to disobey him. He'll respect her decision and she can join the convent, but before…he wants them to visit her mother's tomb, as a family. Regina says she'll go get ready. Leonarda walks in and Rod tells her that they're going to Constanza's tomb. He grabs Leo's wrist and says she'd better not mention Maria del Rosario's name ever again. The past is past and he wants no more uncomfortable questions.

The fishermen, with their two measly fish, come back to shore to cook said fish. Juan thought bubbles, "This is my home. My home. This is me." He says he should honor his land, but to do so he needs to revenge the death of his parents.

The family go to their mausoleum. There are gardenias on Maria del Rosario's tomb, which freaks Leonarda right out. Though, I can't understand why Rod would be worried about her not saying the name again if her grave is right next to Constanza's. Leo blames Clemencia, but she says she only leaves wildflowers there. Rod cryptically says that MdR was well-loved as an explanation for the flowers. Reggie kneels at her mother's tomb and says she's really missed her mother. Renato looks troubled. Aimee is sauntering in as if there's someone there for her to seduce…sure, yeah, you pick up the best men at mausoleums. Reggie continues, saying she has the emptiness of not having a mother. Aimee sees the name "Maria del Rosario" and thought bubbles that she's the woman who died for love. Aimee wonders how it all went down. Leonarda thought bubbles that if Constanza could rise from the grave, she'd point Leo out as her murderer. "Good thing the dead don't talk." Leo thinks, "Maria del Rosario…no one knows that's an empty tomb. No one suspects I've kept you locked up, more dead than alive, and that's how you'll stay for the rest of your days!"

The mute woman tries to feed Maria del Rosario. MdR refuses the food, but tells the mute woman that she's grateful for the care. She realizes the other woman isn't talking because she doesn't know how. She says she'll teach both the woman and her child how to talk since he doesn't know how to talk either.

Juan and the fishermen are on the beach. Juan is looking for the star that is his mother, but he can't find it. The fishermen say that she was such a fine woman, she could be any of those stars. Juan says that being a Montes de Oca, she did the worst thing possible--falling in love with a fisherman like his dad. It hurts that he's never seen the face of his mother. He says he never would have survived without Remigio. He owes him for his life, but he doesn't know where he is right now. Juan thinks they need a bigger crew for the boat. They bust a kid stealing their fish and chase him down. Juan jokes that they'll eat the kid instead, but he's got to be properly cooked. Well, at least we think he's joking.

Regina is in the convent. She's all covered up…well, slightly more than usual, anyway…and praying to God to heal her pain.

Tomorrow: Renato buys an engagement ring; Aimee has to make a difficult choice, poor thing.

**The narrator cracks me up. I highly suggest you make up your own Narrator-esque introduction and use it to preface a comment.

Labels: salvaje

From yesterday: Rafa spits the too-sweet coffee in the janitor's face, ugh. He goes home and sees the funereal faces - finds out Marco called, crowing that tomorrow they'll be out on the street. "You haven't complied, he said, so you'll go to jail." Vicki squeals: "We'll NEVER get married!"

• Rafa, betrayed, tells Jaime about the lovely apology Ale made this very same night: "She touched me - right here - I can still smell her - she congratulated me - her pearly smile..." he flashes back to the great time they had at the wedding... He tells Jaime how close he came to kissing her, but he didn't dare... "I thought she'd stopped hating me, but I'm an imbecile! But she'll hear from me tomorrow!"
  
  
• Marco's night out on the town with Ale is tepid at best. She's mad at him. She will only drink water, and since she says it's bad luck to toast with water, there will be no toasts. He gets crabby about her drinking with Medina - she says it was business-related and points out: he, Marco, gets drunk with the uber-important Urdiales all the time and calls it business.
  
  And speak of the devil, in walks Urdiales himself. Marco is mortified and hides behind his menu. He wants to leave. Ale is surprised he doesn't say hello - and asks him, several times, to introduce her to Urdiales.
  
  Marco wants the check, but Ale wants dessert! He has another whiskey. She stares at him. He goes to the cloak room where Urdiales is getting ready to leave and makes like a starry-eyed fan asking for an autograph. "It would mean so much to me if you'd come by our table and say hi!" Urdiales does so but very perfunctorily and walks away.
  
  Ale: "He wasn't very friendly." Marco: "I've told him he must respect my private space." Suddenly she wants to go home.
  
  
• Ale fell asleep in the car and dreamed of the fiesta. When Marco stops the car at her house, she tells him not to get out and gives him a cool peck of a kiss. In her bedroom, she grins at her bouquet (from the wedding) and hugs it as she goes to sleep and she dreams...
  
  ... that she (in a really hot scarlet dress and no neck brace) is helped out of a limousine by Rafa and taken into a very expensive restaurant and he is all urbane and orders expensive wine, and tells her he loves her, and he loves her dad too, and they kiss... Ale smiles in her sleep...
  
  
• Rafa tosses in his bed, furious, calling her a witch, a false friend, but then sleeps and dreams...
  
  ... that she (in an apron) is cooking nice greasy comida tipica for him and his mother and sister, and they kiss... he smiles in his sleep.
  
  
• The phone rings and wakes up Rafa's mother - it's Alejandra! "He's not here, he left for the office."
  
  
• Rafa is cleaning out his cubicle, he doesn't want to leave anything behind. Ale is close behind. She can't get a word in edgewise, he is furious and shouting. "What did you do? Where will my family go? Will the police come for me in front of them, for the whole world to see? Nobody has the right to make my mother cry! How would your mother like that?" "My mother is dead." This slows him down for a minute, but his ire returns, he tells he has to get home to spend a few hours with his family before he's taken to jail.
  
  
• Ale calls Marco and rips him a new one. "How could you call his mother and torture her? I would never have permitted that!" He is eating in bed and doesn't think much of her complaints - he's on top of it and "doesn't feel the need to tell her every detail." Ale: "Leave Rafa's family in peace!" "You are defending this animal?" "In future, you must consult me first!"
  
  Marco tells Chavez, who is really pissed, because he had a client ready to pounce on the property.
  
  
• Rafa painstakingly writes his letter of renunciation, which veers from austere to poetic: "I was like a bird shattered against a window..."
  
  He takes the letter to Ale who calmly says she will not accept a hand-written letter, he must quit correctly! it must be typed, and in Arial not Times Roman. He has never used a computer so it takes him a mighty long time to type out the first few words, using just one finger... He gets a call from Vicki, who is happy, she has discovered they can get married BEFORE he goes to jail!
  
  
• All the salespeople come in. Marino has had his henchman (Moustache) complain to Susana that he already has all the microwaves, televisions, and miniature refrigerators he can use (these are the prizes for "Salesman of the Month") so can't she come up with something different?
  
  So Susanna shows up with a bicycle. Marino calls his son, who reports that school is going well, and he gave the bribe to his math teacher as Marino had proposed. "Son, I have a brand new bike as Salesman of the Month and I'm giving it to you!" "Great, dad, I already have a client for it, a guy who's menso (is this like from MENSA the organization for nerdy smart people? does it really mean dumb?) and has lots of money. "I sold him my sandwich, I told him it was ham and cheese but it was really pork, hahaha! I'll make him give me a cash advance for the bike!" Marino: "Make sure you get a 50% premium." He hangs up and says "my boy is such a genius!"
  
  
• So Ale calls the sales meeting. Rafa says he's not coming, he has nothing to do with this now, but Ale says until he comes up with an acceptable letter of resignation he is still her employee. Long story short, she gives the figures for the month: The professor in last/ninth place (applause); Rosaura in 8th place; Moustache in 7th place; Claudia in 6th place; Dandy is #5, Jimenez is #4 ("4th place? they'll kick me out of the house, dios mio!") and the Marxist is #3.
  
  Marino is ready to receive his customary accolades, but no, Medina is Salesman of the Month. Hugs and congratulations all round. His face says he doesn't know what to think.

Labels: dinero

Alright you guys, enough! It's a good thing dear, sweet, lovable little Tano reappeared on my watch. I'm not going to savage him the way some of you heartless- forever- to -remain- nameless folks have. Nopis. Throwing down the gauntlet.

Still, Tanecito wasn't a real big part of the action tonight. Most of the drama centered around three main couples: Mauricio/Monita; Connie/Beto; and Ximena/Rolu. Isabel was a lethal bit player, working around the edges continuing to slowly drip poison into every relationship Monita has ever had. There was our usual assortment of hilarious bits, combined with chilling deceptions.....all part of the Gancho ecosystem, as Carlos says. Never a dull moment.

We start the episode with a little ex-marital spat. Jacqui's still steamed about Marcos' infidelities....and with such naco types! He dismisses it as ancient history, and to drive the shaft in even deeper, adds that their marriage was doomed to failure practically from the moment they exchanged "argollas"(rings). Jeez, Marcos, would it have hurt to say you'd only loved Jacqui and the rest were just passing fancies? Guess not. But our pro gets her revenge. She knows about Marcos' plans to change the custody agreement but will only keep her mouth shut if he gives over (dinero...what were you thinking?) and a fancy dinner at an even fancier restaurant. Round I to Jacqui.

Beto, meanwhile, is planning a cut-rate Mauricio seduction of Connie, who's intensely training at the gym. He can't hoist her in his arms, so he carries her off piggyback. There's no lush park outside, so he drags her off to a scrubby little wasteland. And they step in dog doo. But hey, he's brought doves of peace. DOVES OF PEACE!!!DOVES OF PEACE!!!. Finally, Costeño releases the little buggers who promptly drop more doo-doo. On Connie's shoulder and Beto's forehead. It's a pooporama. But she laughs. And he apologizes. And they kiss. And it's absolutely great. Both tender and passionate.

The end.

Oh man, I wish the episode had stopped right there but it didn't.

Here's what else happened. Jeronimo, in addition to dismissing Rolu as a pathetic er..."twit", goes on to give him some truly deplorable love advice. You had Ximena in the palm of your hand when you despised her and mistreated her, says big bro'. Dump this corny, pleading approach and go back to being a brute with her. She'll fall for you all over again. Rolu appears to be giving this deep thought.

Mientras tanto, tender smooching and a few ant bites later, Beto and Connie have completely reconciled. He's happy to be back in her thrall, especially since she frightened off the friendly dog that was scaring him. "Domar a las bestias, tu eres domadora"he gasps, entranced. And our favorite dominatrix proceeds to do a number on him, resulting in his eventual agreement to help her train for her boxing bout with Monita. Ay Beto, how little we knew thee.

Meanwhile, a telenovela staple: Our main couple, heartbroken, apart and distraught, amble down Memory Lane, complete with sound track. For Monita: the clown skit, her Charlie Chaplin number, slow, sexy dancing with Furia Enmascadora in the ring. For Mauricio: Romantic evening in Meridia saying "te amo"in indigenous lingo, cruising on the love boat while pink flamingos swirl about , and our personal favorite, hot lovin' in the cenote. Told ya' water scenes were all about passion. She's crying; he's gloomy. It's so sad. Breaking up is hard to do.

So thank God we have a comedy scene with Beto. The money wasn't enough to cover mariachis (who were off-key anyway) so he had to settle for a serenade from Costeño and some luchadores. They're off-key as well...but cheaper. Kudo's to Connie on this one. She's horrified, she's trying not to laugh or not to hurl. Grimacing wildly, biting her lip, chewing her fingers. Fortunately Beto interprets this as a sign of passion. Hilarious scene.

On to the vecindad and poisoned apple Isabel. She's snagged Estrella (In another mismatched outfit. Liked the top but not with the leggings) and is running her devoted mama number on her. Estrella listens, wide-eyed, then jumps up and applauds the acting. Really, she could learn a lot from Isabel! What skill! Almost had her believing it. Let me take some tips from you, lady, çause you really know how to bring it. And out goes Estrella. Leaving Isabel looking mega-lethal. Methinks our pregnant little actress doesn't have long to live, with a look like that. Scary, scary, scary. ( As a child I had nightmares after seeing Snow White and the Wicked Queen. Think I may have some more nightmares tonight.)

Our lovers Connie and Beto are finally back ringside, dreamily reminiscing about the first time they did the deed....in the ring, where else? And she's all over him now that he's agreed to be her trainer. Heck, if I'd known you'd be that grateful, I'd had offered earlier, smiles Beto. Not good. Not good.

Okay. Here it comes. Certain people may want to skip this paragraph. It's about you know who. He's reassuring Estrella that she did the right thing canceling the wedding. Aldo needs to grow up some more. When he does, he'll understand it was for the best. Mebbe so, but Estrella's still worried about her little cub.

And well she should be. He's back at the drug lair and his supplier is no longer Santa Claus. He wants money, he wants Oscar and if he doesn't get both, he wants revenge. No drugs for Aldo but trouble a'plenty.

Okay. More of my favorite guy. He's suggesting a funny movie to lift Estrella's spirits. She's not in the mood, but Paula invites herself along( once she sees Christian arriving ) Off she trots, arm in arm with Tano, while our distraught policeman gears up for Operativo Cuernos Paula. We're rollin'. Tano and Paula are gaily traipsing through the mall with Christian in glum pursuit. Once he has to pose like a mannequin to avoid detection. Then forced to crouch behind a woman with a large popcorn bucket, crawl underneath, lurch into the movie theatre, watch in horror (and through binoculars) as our pair share popcorn, giggles and ye gods! Tano appears to have put his arm across the back of Paula's chair. What new intimacies await!? Next episode.

Meanwhile, Isabel is weaving her spell with Monita. She's overheard the conversation between Estrella and Moni in the courtyard and knows that her daughter has broken up with Mauricio. Again, that lethal look. But it all changes in an instant when Monita enters her room. Tender, compassionate, warm motherly love and understanding await. Isabel knows something is wrong. A mother always does, you know. Little by little, she coaxes what she already knows out of Monita and pretends to reassure her that true love will win in the end. (But not if Mom has anything to do with it!) Then she gently probes for details on Monita's friendship with Estrella. Really tight, right? Like uña y mugre (thick as thieves). How wonderful. Isabel's so happy she has a good friend like that. (not!) And now excuse her, she just has to go out for a minute. The reason? to talk to someone about renting the house in Moreleon. We'll soon see that it's actually for some skullduggery with arch-evil Connie, but why rush into that part?

Let's check back with hermanos de alma, Mauricio and Beto. Our naco galan can't wait to share all the juicy details of his pigeon poop reconciliation with Connie. Her fleshy lips, her waves of hotness, her...Mauricio's looking nauseated...okay, on to the bottom line. He's agreed to be her trainer for the boxing match. Now Mauricio's looking outraged, furious...or at least trying to. Beto outlines his plan. He's not working against Monita; in fact he's going to persuade Connie, little by little, that she's outmatched and should give up the whole idea of a fight. Mauricio knows her better. She's "terca"(stubborn) and relentless. She'll never change. For once, Mau's looking like the smarter of the two.

Now, back to the dark side. Connie, ravishing in a well-fitted, scoop-necked black sheath, silvery rose at neckline, silverly earrings in her lovely lobes (there! are ya' happy, Carlos?) is hatching up some hellish plans with Isabel. They exchange a few insults before Isabel drops the happy bomb that Mau and Monita are broken up for good.

And speaking of insults, Rolu has taken Jerry's advice to heart and once Ximena arrives home, he's on her case, yelling, berating, insulting, demeaning and....oh no, tell me it isn't true...seemingly winning back Ximena's mixed up heart. After that barrage of abuse, she's suddenly thinking he looks more attractive than ever. Not that Rolu hears this. He's literally tuned her out by turning on his ipod and rocking out to the music. Let's hope Arny clears up this misunderstanding soon. Poor Ximena!

And poor Monita! Really ugly plans are afoot as Isabel lays out her plan and her need for Connie's alliance. Long slow windup. Connie wants to win the bout, right? But Monita's a national champion. No chance. Unless she joins with Isabel in her guerilla warfare. Okay. Losing's not an option so Connie's on board. What's the deal? Beto and Nieves are an enormous problem. You must keep Beto away from Monita. That's Job One. Estrella's also an obstacle. But I'll destroy her, concludes Isabel.

Said Beto is indeed with Monita and trying to make her see the light, but it's futile. How could she break up with Mauricio?! And why do you suppose all the people who love you are warning you about your perfidious (okay, he didn't say that!) mother? Connect your hormones! (I think he was supposed to say Connect your neurones. But that's Beto for you.) Figure it out! I'm not gonna shut up. Even if you try and beat me up. No use. Moni won't stand for any such talk about her mama. And no way will she ever accept Connie as her half-sister or Marcos as her father. Punto. Beto makes one last try. Marcos has to be a great guy. Look at what he created. Two luscious, sexy, gorgeous, adorable women. Hey, he's another Leonardo da Vinci. An artist! Not like that wicked Snow White of a mother you've got. Still no headway. She thinks his love for la Momia has made him blind and stupid. He thinks her love for her mother has had the same effect. Okay. Enough. He heads out. Brotherly advice over. But think about it.

Meanwhile, la Momia and Wicked Witch are still sparring. Connie is chuckling at the plan Isabel has outlined. Our cobra is suprised...didn't know Constanza had a sense of humor. Imagine! a woman like Connie, eaten up with rancor, can still laugh. Sure, Connie can laugh. But let's get one thing straight. She's on board for the plan but no messing with Beto, leave him alone. My, how you defend him, Isabel coos. Is it love? Aren't you suffocated by his stench? Keep him out of my way, she adds, or I''ll send him back to you, embalmed and in a coffin. And by the way, Oscar sends his regards. He has a few asuntos pendientes with you. Dulces sueños. Connie's smile fades as Isabel's widens. And there we end.

Previews:
Aldo and Oscar are meeting. Aldo's threatening to spill the beans about the country house, Lorenza and Salvador unless Oscar helps him. Oscar threatens him back.
The lawyer, Marcos and Mauricio meet in order for our galan to regain custody of his children. Mauricio smiles!

Vocabulary:
un dechado de perfecciones, de virtudes = a paragon of virtues
argollas = rings (as in wedding rings)
se hizo en mi brazo = he (it) pooped on my arm
me van a reventar los timpanos = they're going to bust my eardrums (Constanza, appreciating
the luchador mariachi serenade
ni pichas ni cachas ni dejas batear = you don't take a stand. Estrella, criticizing Christian for his reluctance to commit to Paula
capcioso= cunning, artful (Arny, talking about Rolu)
metiendo las patotas = messing up (Beto talking to Monita)
asuntos pendientes = unfinished business
dulces sueños = sweet dreams
domar a las bestias = dominate (train) animals
domadora =dominatrix
uña y mugre = lit. nail and dirt....thick as thieves
terca = stubborn
Operative Cuernos Paula = Cheatin'Paula Mission

Dicho of the Day
Nunca está más oscuro que cuando va a amanecer.
It's always darkest before the dawn.
And things look dark indeed for our little Monita. But fear not, it's a telenovela. There's gotta be a happy ending.

Labels: gancho

In his marvelous recap of Friday's episode, Hombre cataloged a number of choices some of our friends in Gancholandia have recently made. Today let's visit once more, this time to check on how the choices are working out for them.

Mauricio has chosen to hitch his wagon to Marcos and was promptly rewarded with rejection by our little monkey who has fallen under the spell of her mother the evil sorceress, Isabel. Isabel, seeking vengeance for her rejection by Marcos (Moni's dad), has poisoned Moni's mind against him. Marcos and Mao (not to be confused with our real M&M) are regrouping in a very appealing restaurant. Marcos inquires about the kiddies and Mao fills him in about the escapades of Aldo. Showing his appreciation for Mao's backing in his effort to develop a relationship with his daughter, he has offered his support to Mao in regaining custody of his children. Should be no problem since this old fart is responsible for Coni gaining custody of them in the first place. He assures Mao that he will make it so. This assertion is met by a confused blank look (in the case of Mao, pretty much the norm).

In the long run, probably a good choice.

I think we have our very own contender for Miss Nails on the Slate in the usually fetching Luisa whose screeching sent me to my knees to give thanks for my hearing loss. If it was so grating to this near-sordo, what must it have been like to the rest of you poor creatures suffering from normal hearing, not to mention Aldo who was within lethal range? I think she was trying to tell Aldo that she disapproves of him getting Estrella pregnant, then running off to marry her without first checking with her. He wants to know how she found out. She tells him about overhearing Jaqui as she filled in Coni. She pleads with him not to abandon her. He looks hopelessly sad. They hug. She leaves. Phew! Cute red and white stripped dress, though: no problem for this girl with horizontal stripes What's this? She must have given him a headache. He heads for his stash of pills. Wait! That's too many! Oh no! Oh yes! Oh Crap!

A terrible choice. Hey kid! Don't they show in Mexico that PSA with the egg... demonstrating what your brain will look like on drugs?

Arnie is captivated by the photo of Ximena at which he is gazing intently at as our sprite on loan from the land of rainbows and unicorns, weightlessly descends the spiral stairway. For the record she is lovely in an unsymmetrical sequined top with a right shoulder and sleeve and only the thinnest of straps on the left. Black pants, high heels... nice. Now, my choice would be to spend more time than we are allotted with her, but let us enjoy what we have. She announces to Arnie that Rolu is safely stashed in his bed with the TV on, so..."How about us Arnie?" Arnie tries to beg off more intimacy lessons , but Ximy points to the progress he has made in only a single day. She is super mega proud (orgullosa) of what her favorite alumnus has accomplished. Of course the really intimate fondling (toqueteos a toqueteos) will be left up to Lalu. Arnie prefers not, but Ximy wants all the world, sea turtles, Mao Tse Tung and Moni, even her hermanolfo, Jero, to be happy. Arnie wants her to be happy but knows that she's not. She goes over the details of her coercion of an incapacitated Rolu to marry her and be with her, even to the point of tying him to the bed, "but it didn't work (no funcionó)." Arnie corrects her, "It worked very well, my brother adores you." She then vows to fight for their maariage for after all, Rolu is her soul mate (gemelo de alma). As she says this her exuberance wilts into a frown of awareness that this simply is not the case. We know that these two have made the choice to try to ignore the growing attraction they hold for each other.

Ill-fated choices that we all know (and as I think they must suspect) will soon be rectified.

And now for the worst choice of all. Valentina has made the choice to put her faith in her lying, deceptive, cold-hearted, totally unfeeling scuzz of a mother who so far seems to have not even a shred of maternal instinct or motherly love. Serpents do a better job of nurturing their young. She and Moni are in Moni's apartment with the cobra crone wishing that she could tag along with Moni to the gym. Moni thinks that it's best that she stay behind and rest up. Isabel can't understand how someone as petite (menudita), feminine and pretty (linda) could have taken up boxing. Well, here's Alicia who will keep Issy company while Moni's away. This couldn't happen to a more deserving person. Alicia's inane babbling will give our momma snake a little glimpse into the Hell that surely is being prepared for her at this very moment.

If there is any justice in the world, Moni will surely rethink this disastrous choice.

Coni's home from her workout at the gym. She has chosen to become a boxer like Moni. Her mother Jaqui tries to impart a dose of reality onto her stubborn, willful, selfish (only for the present, mind you) daughter. With astonishing insight she points out that Coni is trying to become Moni, but ultimately lacks the nimbleness and gracefulness to ever become a boxer. "You'll be surprised when I climb into the ring with Monita." "Yes, I'll be surprised if you last a round." Coni suggests that Jaqui find another man like Jerónimo to keep her occupied and fight with so that she won't be bothering her.

This is an interesting choice, poorly made, but which may ultimately be the key to Coni finding redemption, and more importantly, a renewed sense of self-worth.

Meintras tanto, Isabella is trying to shoo away her preview of Hell. Nosireebob, Alicia, fan aflutter, like the wing of a caffeinated butterfly, suffering her own torment of hellish menopausal hot flashes, needs an ear to fill with neighborhood gossip and Isabel is the designated captive audience.

I say, "Excellent choice!"

Coni does not let Jaqui get off easy. She tosses up an inside fastball of her own. Her daddy, whom Jaqui clearly would like to go a few more rounds with, is smitten with Nieves. Take that, Mommy Dearest!

Making good on his promise to help Mao regain custody of his children, Marcos, Man of Action, is paying a visit to his old pal, Judge Fersail. The good judge doesn't understand nor care why Marcos wants the custody reversed. "You got cash, I got your justice right here. Next!"

Marcos certainly made a good choice with this judge.

In the gym, Mao and Beto are pretending to train but are actually awaiting Moni's arrival. Beto assures a nervous Mao that she will be here, and vows that he is doing all that he can to recapture Coni's heart. Moni's here and Beto takes off with Costeño. Looks like a plan is unfolding. Moni is in no mood to talk with Mao, but not so fast little monkey. Mao scoops her up in his arms, she struggles vainly and voices outraged protest. He's stronger, "This time you will listen!"

Ximena, a fantastic choice of outfits, Sweetheart! Rolu, on the bed, looks up and sees his wife decked out in a red number that would make a bulldog break his chain (I borrowed that from my adored grandfather and have no idea what it means, but it certainly seems to fit this situation). She vamps,"Rolu, how do I look?" "Divino!" He thinks that Arnoldo has spilt the frijoles. She tells him that red is the color of passion. He ends up admitting the brief flirtation with the cutie (chava) in red at the club. seemingly unfazed, she asks him what he thinks.

Back at Moni's, Alicia's verbal waterboarding of Isabel continues. Fan aflapping, she is telling her of Aldo and Estrella, of Mao's legal battle with Coni... Isabel can't take it. She sends her on an errand to the dry cleaners (tintoreria).

Ximena, looking absolutely fatally fabulous in red is needing for Rolu to quantify his love for her. Bigger than the moon, the stars, the universe... "The universe in infinite," she observes. She wants to discuss the matter with him in greater depth... downstairs. "I'll be waiting for you downstairs," she purrs as she backs out of the room... pulling his wheelchair with her. Talk about choices. Rolu has a huge choice to make. The ball is in your court, Buster.

After a brief respite, Issy is joined by the senior torturess, Nieves. She has come, "not to shout at you, or claw at you (arañarse), or share entanglements (greñas) of the neighborhood with you, although you deserve it..." Isabel expresses her appreciation then goes on attack. She knows that Valentina would be furious with her for laying so much as a hand on her. Nieves spits out, "¡Vibora!" "Estorba (hinderance)," Issy cooly replies. This lovefest is interrupted by Jaqui who strolls in unannounced, "Nieves I came looking for you (te)." Nieves wants to know since when does she tutear with her. "Since we got drunk together." Here Isabel jumps into the conversation. Jaqui recognizes her as the lady Coni followed out of the restaurant the night of the miscarriage. Isabel introduces herself as Moni's mom and Nieves quickly appends, "And Marcos' amante." Good with algebra and biology, Jaqui quickly calculates that Moni and Coni are half sisters (media hermanas).

Mauricio has transported a struggling Moni to the park and parks her on a stone wall. Crouched behind the wall with a knapsack are Beto and Costeño who at Mao's signal, "¡Que te quedes aquí! (stay here, using the subjunctive)... ¡QUE TE QUEDES AQUÍ!" Which in Spanish also must mean release the pigeons, because Beto and Beto set free a bunch of white winged-rats, that must be drugged because they don't fly away allowing a nimble Mao to capture one and hand it over to Moni, "With this white dove I offer you a truce... yada yada yada." She must be delighted because she smiles grasping the apparently numbed bird in a death grip. We breathlessly await for her to squeeze the poop out of this peace offering all over her starched white britches... Drat! No such luck. Maybe as she continues to hold it over the back of Mao's University of Tennessee Tee... nopis... Beto and Costeño bump fists. Good job guys.

Back from commercials, Costeño confesses his love to Beto who does not share the sentiment affectioately calling Costy a vulture (sopilote) as they split. As the confused birds mill about Moni finally loosens her grip on her bird enough for it to escape. The two lovebirds (M&M that is) exchange endearments we have heard many times before. Anyone want to hear this?... Thought not. Next!

Nieves, Isabel, and Jaqui are bonding. "You're quiet, Señora," Isabel says. Jaqui tells her that her mind is filled with vulgarities to express her sentiments but frankly she doesn't want to say them. Issy boldly suggests that they tutear since they've shared the warmth (calor) of the same man. Jaqui offers that if she was looking for warmth she should have gone for a charapito (I'm guessing this is like our wino, except with a preference for pulque... Jarocha? Anyone?) instead of a married man. Nieves chuckles. Jaqui considers it a nightmare that Coni and Moni are sisters who hate each other. Nieves jumps in saying that at least Monita was well-reared by her, surrounded by love and she's not about to let Issy rob her of the affection Moni has for her. Just wait'll Moni learns what Issy really is. Jaqui notes that Coni really doesn't need any more hate in her life. Issy pronounces them, "Viejas ridiculas. Metiches, corrientes, y borrachas (Ridiculous old women, meddlers, common, and drunkards)." Jaqui counters with,"Labio triste (sad lip?). Difficult to say who got the best of whom there.

Brace yourselves gang, I'll try to guide us through this with as little pain possible. Mao and Moni are walking and... gasp... talking. Steady guys. Words of love, then Mao shouts, "¡Echale, don Pepe!" Well, I'll be flogged! ¡Mariachis! Inspired choice, Mauricio. They sing, "Por qué no han de saber?..." Not one of my favorites but... Beto and Costy look on, pleased with their contribution. Monita likes. Hey! are those white spots on Mao's shoulder pigeon dookey?

Sitting alone, lovely but sad, Ximy kisses one of Rolu's/Arnie's letters. the words of her primary care bruja, Bartola, ring in her ear, "You've spent your life looking for your soul mate and you've found him, but you will lose him if you don't do something..."

Upstairs Rolu confers with Arnie. Arnie gives excellent advice, "Give up the lie the wheelchair and go downstairs.

Rolu's answer? No!

Ximy reads another letter.

Rolu tries to negotiate with his brother. Nope. Sorry Rolu. So what's it gonna be? You have until after this word from our sponsors to make that choice.

The three ladies reminisce over their relationships with Marcos. Isabel declines to offer the other two a glass of water for fear that they will rust. She notes that she has no vices, she preferred being Marcos' vice. Nieves thinks it's a first love that lasts for toda la vida. "Well yeah, first love lingers in the mind but it's the passion like she lived with him that gets under the skin, and once more I'll have him at my feet."Jaqui opines. "After twenty years?"Nieves is not so sure of that. A smug Isabel offers that Marcos enjoyed himself most when he was in bed with her.

Back at the gym, Beto, wearing a meaningfultee shirt with a simple, stark message: ↑ el Hombre ↓ la Leyenda (cute), and Costeño congratulate themselves on a job well done. This should take care of all of M&M's differences. Uh... yeah... sure. They agree that they make a great pair. Beto thinks that he and Coni make a great pair as well. Por casualidad (remember?), Costeño remembers that Coni is training at Jimmy's gym. Beto thinks that the same strategy will work for him. He enlists Costeño's aid. Costy is not sure how much he can arrange with the amount of money Beto coughs up. Beto reminds him that they are brothers. He wants doves, street birds (callejeras) are OK, just no turkeys (guajalotes) or chickens (pollos) and of course mariachis.

More M&M, this time seated on the edge of a fountain. More sweet words, memories of times together, but I think that we all see where this is headed. Let's skip ahead. Moni stands up and moves in as if to kiss and then shoves him into the fountain. He stands up, grabs her and pulls her in. They thrash about, splash, they frolic in the cool water... Enjoy yourselves kiddies, there's surely another anvil cuing up just over yon horizon.

Ximy's still waiting... and reading. She is joined by Jero. They excange good-natured sibling insults as we look up and see Rolu's amazing and I think, pretty clever choice. He has decided to drag himself down the stairs. "I'm coming my love, it took a bit of effort to get out of bed..." Astonished the sibs look on as he makes it down the spiral staircase and positions himself at her feet. I'm almost in tears at this noble effort, Jero is scandalized, and Ximy is ashamed and too embarrassed for words.

Mercifully we are whisked away from this tragically touching scene and back to the park where the lovebirds are enjoying a moment... He tuns serious telling her that Aldo and Estrella were on the verge of getting married. She knows and apologizes for keeping news of the pregnancy from him. He's in a forgiving mood (at the point of getting lucky with Monita... who wouldn't be?) But then here comes the anvil, straight from Valentina's lovely, luscious lips, "Mama's not our enemy, it's my daddy." He looks crushed, but for the moment plays along. They kiss. Make it last. It may be awhile before there's another.

At he offices of Groupo Sermeño, Marcos asks Jaqui what was so urgent, then tells her that he is nurturing the business as a legacy for his daughters. "Not just for Coni and Katia but also for Monita, right?" Well it's good that you know and perhaps it's best that you don't say what you want to say for the good of Coni. It'll just add to her hate if you tell her." All the while he is covering her with gentle persuasive kisses. We can learn from this man.

Back at Ximy's Rolu is at her feet, clinging to her long gorgeous legs. Our Ximy is stunned. She panics, bolts, and flees. Jero fetches the wheelchair for Rolu then cruelly jerks it away. No doubt he pulled wings off of flies as a child. We don't want to... but... we laugh. Jero's off to take a shower. Rolu rethinks his choices.

Back in the park, Valentina and Mauricio share with each other their very different opinions of her parental units. Irreconcilable. THUD!

Carlos

PS, here's a photo of the puerco pibil dinner:

Labels: gancho

Note: we are looking for a Monday recapper so Pata won't have to do two each week as she has nobly offered! Interested? Let me know, caray@mappamundi.com - Melinama Now on to the recap.

I couldn’t let this great episode go to waste so here is a quick rundown. I have to work in the morning so did this quick and I missed a lot, so anyone feel free to add on or correct anything. But let's give a shout out to Rafa!!! Way to go!!

We have Marco calling Leonor and giving her notice that she is about to be evicted, and advises her to find a place to store all her belongings. Leonora begs him not to this. Marco says time's up

Funny little scene at Siglo where Ale is walking behind someone who she thinks is Marino and grabs his hair making fun of his wig. It turns out it is a client of Isabel. Ale begs his pardon and walks away embarrassed.

She tells all the Siglo crew to get to work and when she sees Marino she tells him if he changes wigs to let her know. Too funny.

Four hours and counting till Siglo closes and the month is over. Ale looks sweetly at Rafa’s Desk and smiles. Juan the janitor sneaks by Ale hiding some papers behind his back. He approaches Susana and asks her to give them to Ale because she gets really angry when he gives her the bills. As if it were his fault!

Susan gives Ale the Bills and she gets really agitated. Susana tries to get her to relax. This isn’t working as Susana his rubbing her temples and telling her to Relax.

Medina is out capturing his lions. They all show up, but not without tequila. They ask after Ale. They wonder if he isn’t in love with her. Rafa says he is not in love with her. He tries to change the subject and mentions the reason he’s here is to sell. The businessmen have other plans and pass around the tequila.

Ale Calls Rafa to find out where he is and how things are doing. She tells him he has two hours otherwise he is out. Ale inquires if Rafa has been drinking. He says yes that is what we are doing. Ale gets mad at him.

Rafa is just about to get to business with the lions and who show up but the daughters. They are more interested in Rafa. There is more tequila drinking,

We are back at Siglo with all the crew handing in their monthly sales reports to Susana. Marino walks in waving his reports. Claudia tries to talk him out of two of his sales and Marino more or less tells her what she would need to do first... Claudia slaps him calls him a pig, and he snorts at her.

Ale walks in and chides everyone. She tells them to get back to work they have an hour. They all scatter.

Beltran approaches Ale and wants to know if Rafa has reported in. She says he still has an hour. Beltran gets all nervous. He says if Rafa doesn’t make the sale he is fired. He tells her to call him.

Rafa is trying to convince everyone what a great deal they are getting. He tells them he will give them a discount if they buy as a group. The daughters are all urging the old guys to buy from Rafa. He tells them he will give them a moment to think without pressure.

As he leaves the daughters are all encouraging the men that Rafa is offering a good deal. Rafa’s phone rings and one of the young women answer it. Of course it is Ale and she is quite put out... She hangs up. And starts choking. Susana enters and wants to know what’s wrong. She is all upset because a women answered the phone. Susana starts laughing and Ale gets madder. She says Rafa is risking everything just to be at a fiesta with women...

The phone rings. It is Marco. He wants to know how things are going. Ale tells him Rafa hasn’t sold anything yet. Marco pumps a fist. He says he will come to pick her up later. Ale hangs up throwing the phone down saying Medina is just looking for this, or in other words deserves what he is getting.

We now see the great lion tamer getting all his advances from the said lions. They are not done with him yet. They offer more tequila. Rafa really tries to leave, but now everyone just wants to celebrate more. The young women chide him and tell him he needs to celebrate with them. They tell him it is an order.

Back at Siglo, his co-workers are all lamenting that Rafa hasn’t returned yet. Ale is fretting that Rafa isn’t back and hasn’t paid one peso. She cant believe she ever thought she could believe in Rafa.. At this moment we see a blue car show up.

Rafa stumbles out of the car. Susana has a huge smile and all of Siglo is watching the spectacle of Rafa stumbling and waving bye to his gorgeous young chauffeurs. Rafa runs up to Ale stating he did it and trips falling at her feet. He is so excited and happy. He is shaking her showing the contracts. He is pretty bombed. Ale says give the contracts to Susana and come into the office.

Ale is in her office. Smiling and stating, he did it. Everyone is happy for him except Marino. Susana is smiling, Marino approaches and chides him, Rafa teases Marino about the wig.

Rafa is so excited about his sales, and talking a mile a minute to Ale. Ale says shut up you drunk and wants to get to business and wants to see the figures. Rafa is still so excited, but all Ale is worried about is that Rafa has enough to pay her what he owes her. She tells him he didn’t make what he owes her.

We have another brief salon scene. This time Ramirez’s old ladies wonder in with rollers and tight curls and want to get there hair combed. Or something like that. It was just very strange.

Ale is now chewing Rafa out for when he danced with Carlotta. Rafa said yes but it worked. Now Ale is yelling about the women who answered his phone. She continues adding up the sales. He is short 400,000 pesos. (I think or 4 mil cien.) Rafa argues with her saying she is expecting way too much of him. She continues yelling and tells him to leave.

Rafa leaves defeated , heading to his desk. The Siglo crew try to cheer him up and want him to celebrate. With him. Bow-tie guy offers him another tape that will help him sell, Claudia tells him she’ll show him the Mexican technique (or something like that). Marino adds his two cents and tells them to come to the meeting tomorrow so they will all get to know the sales person of the month and takes off. Rafa tells the crew he isn’t up celebrating.

They all leave poor Rafa, and Susana sees him distraught and alone. She goes to talk to Ale. Ale is still going on about Rafa being with the clients and drinking. And still didn’t make his commitment.

Susana wants to know what she is so mad about? She tells her no one has sold in one day what Rafa just sold. She accuses Ale of being more upset because Rafa was with those young women, or having a few drinks, then not having met his financial obligations. Which by the way the amount he was lacking was the same amount that Ale paid for the pen for Marco that she charged, or so Susana reminds her...

She accuses Ale of killing Rafas’ happiness. She tells Ale that Rafa worked really hard to complete his obligations.

Rafa is alone at his desk. Wondering why he worked so hard, who even cares. It isn’t worth the effort. He continues crying when a hand reaches across his shoulder, and it is Ale. Finally coming to her senses. She congratulates Rafa and gives him a hug. She tells him he did a good job and she is really proud of him. And that it was a great sale.

Rafa is crying and this scene was worth the whole hour. Ale takes the scarf around her neck brace off and uses it to wipe Rafas’ tears. She tells him she will see him tomorrow. As she leaves she is smiling and Rafa touches his shoulder where she had touched him.

Marco shows up. Ale is all excited still thinking about her little moment with Rafa. She says she had a great day. Marco is telling Ale that he too has good news. He has it all arranged that by tomorrow he will have Rafas’ house. Ale tells him to forget about this. She tells him Medina made his sales. Marco isn’t convinced Rafa will continue to be successful and wants to take Rafa’s house. Ale puts her foot down and says no way are taking that house. She will pay the rest that he owes for the month. But they are not going to sell Rafa’s house. Marco is not too happy.

Before Rafa leaves he is sitting alone wondering why he feels so bad. He knows Ale was never his. Trapito shows up and the two have a cute little moment. And we get to hear Rafa’s funny little laugh.


Rafa shows up to his house, and everyone is sitting around the couch crying. Rafa wants to know what is wrong, he asks if someone died. Jaime tells him Ales’ lawyer called and they need to be out of the house by tomorrow. The end.

Labels: dinero

Gabriel tells Juan that he seems so content. It's the passion replies Juan. Well then perhaps you'll forget about getting your revenge. Juan goes ballistic and says what stupidity are you talking about? I will get my revenge against all the Montes de Oca until there is nothing left of them. Passion and revenge should not be confused. I can feel passion, but will not forget what this journey is really for. Revenge. My revenge.

Noel, Lenoarda and Renato are anxiously waiting for the arrival of Rodrigo and the girls. In walks Rodrigo and Leonarda gets a cheesy grin on her face. In walks Regina and she has a cheesy grin on her face when she sees Renato. Next Aimee sashays her way in and Renato jaw drops to the floor at the sight of her. Rodrigo greets Leonarda who is so happy to see him that she won’t shut up. He tells her that she is as beautiful as she always has been. Then he turns to Noel and says I can see that you have treated Leonarda well. Then greets Renato and insists he call him Tio. Noel greets the girls and says that he barely recognizes them. Aimee tells him that she couldn’t wait to see him again and says the same to Leonarda. Leonarda brings Renato forward and says come and say hello to Aimee and Regina. You were so anxious in meeting them again, why are you so quiet? I am so blown away by their beauty replies Renato and kisses each girls hands. Aimee says you look good yourself. Chuckle from everyone. Leonarda finally greets Regina and remarks on how beautiful both of the girls are. Renato, looking at Aimee, says that is mother is right. They are beautiful and any man would be happy to have them at their side.

Juan walks into his rented pad and says this is exactly what I wanted. Gabriel says he can’t believe that no one came to greet them when they disembarked. Especially the guy they communicated with. (I can’t even try to spell the name of this person. Someone help) That’s because I ordered it that way replies Juan. You will meet him when the time is right. But in the meantime I want to explore this place.

Noel raises a toast to Aimee, Regina and Rodrigo for their return to the finca. Aimee quickly questions if they will be living here full time. She really wants to live in town. Renato says that there is nothing better then living in the country. Regina agrees with Renato. Aimee tells Regina that in this case they both are very different. Then taunts her by calling her Santa Regina. Santa Regina?,questions Renato. That is how I tease my sister. Anyway she is a great photographer. Noel tells Regina that there are many places for her to take pictures. Renato offers to take her to the best places. Clemencia comes in to tell the arrivals that there rooms are ready. Clemencia greets the girls. Of course Aimee grabs all her attention. Leonarda tells Clemencia to take the girls up to their room to rest. Renato says he will accompany them. Rodrigo asks Leonarda to set up a special meal to receive Frederico Martin del Campo. He was on the ship with us and he appears to be a fine gentlemen. I think he would be an excellent husband for Regina. I would like to formalize their relationship and set a wedding date.

Frederico is at his place. He finds a letter from his solicitor saying that there is a list of creditors wanting payment on delinquent accounts. He tells himself that he has to formalize his relationship with Regina or look for a loan. Otherwise Rodrigo will find out exactly how broke I am. How do I get out of this mess?

Juan and Gabriel tour the house. Juan is happy with his rented pad. Juan tells Gabriel that from now on they will act as business agents for Juan Aldame de la Cruz. Me too asks Gabriel. Of course replies Juan. In the time that we have spent together you have won my confidence. You have inherited that from your father. I appreciate your confidence replies Gabriel. Juan gives him the day off. Gabriel says and what are you going to do? Juan says I am going to complete my reason for coming here.

Juan goes to his mother’s grave and brings her flowers. They say you are my mother, but I don’t know much about you. I wish I had known your caress and your voice. If I had known your story then perhaps I would be able to sleep in peace. A peace I have not felt since they yanked me from your arms. If you had existed then perhaps I would not be the same man as I am today. Like what everyone calls me. There goes that animal. That savaje. He would do anything to just hug her and talk to her. He needs her blessing. A blessing that he never received by not living next to her. I need you so much. Even though you are dead, you live in this corazon savaje. More weeping as he lies on her grave.

The dove comes back again to visit Maria del Rosario. She says you came back to complete your promise. Are you taking me far away from here to reunite me with Juan de Dios? She recalls meeting him and his kisses. She says she can’t leave yet. It’s not time yet. She must meet her son.

Juan promises revenge against those that hurt her.

Noel says are you really going to marry Regina off to someone she does not want? We know how serious marriage is. Leonarda tells Noel that his comments are inappropriate. Rodrigo knows what’s best for Regina. He is her father and I will support his decision. Fine replies Noel. I will no longer state my opinion on this matter. He ask Rodrigo to meet in private to go over some business affairs. Rodrigo says that’s not really necessary. You have sent exquisitely detailed information on the business. You have done well. So have you heard anything from our associate in Spain? Santiago asks Noel. He unfortunately passed away several years ago. So who inherited his fortune and interests in our business asks Rodrigo. I understand that his son who lives in Europe did replies Noel. Perhaps he will come here. I had never met Santiago, but would like to meet his heir someday.

The fisherman are fishing. Juan comes up on them and helps. A guy thanks him and after talking they remember who he is. Hugs all around and men frolicking in the water.

Renato, Aimee and Regina are conversing on the porch. Renato says he cannot believe how much they have changed. What I mean is to see how beautiful you have become. That’s really sweet replies Regina. Renato asks Aimee if she left behind many heartbroken men. Was there any that were really important to her? Of course not replies Aimee. I have not yet met the man who has stolen my heart. Did you know that Regina has a proposal? Really asks Renato. Not I replies Regina. Aimee says of course you do. You have a gentlemen who wants to marry you, but you don’t want to except him. She says she’s in love with another. Who asks Renato? Aimee says don’t insist. She has never told me. It’s a secret. Renato tells Aimee to quit teasing Regina. Everyone has the right to follow their heart. I have an idea. I would like you two to accompany me around the finca. I assure you that you will be happy with all the changes that have happened here while you were gone. The girls agree.

Fisherman guy says welcome Juan de Dios. Juan loses his smile and yells out that Juan de Dios is dead. Don’t you remember!? I am Juan del Diablo. I have come for revenge.

Rosenda bosses the girl she got into a fight with around. The girl tells Rosenda to get off her high horse. Now that the girls have come back, Senora Leonarda will forget all about her. They are educated and refined. I wonder which one with conquer Renato.

Juan tells fisherman #1 and Pedro that Santiago and Mabel died in a tragic accident awhile back. He was a great guy who gave me his name. Pedro asks if he inherited a great fortune. Yes a huge fortune replies Juan. And I came to share it with you. To put it at your services. How are the soldiers treating you? Worse every day replies fisherman #1. They put an unjust amount on the fish we sell. But if we didn’t except then we’ll die of hunger. Pedro says things have not changed since his father was alive. Juan says things will be different. How asks Pedro. First off we need to buy a cart. Fisherman #1 says I know of someone selling one. Then I will give you the money to buy it replies Juan. That is the first step in making the fisherman’s lives better. This place recalls many memorizes for me. Meet me tomorrow and bring the cart. Not only did I come here for revenge, but also for justice. And if necessary with my own hands.

Clemencia and Regina are happy to see each other again. Clemencia tells her that she has the same angelic smile her mother had. Regina says too bad the only thing that we have left of her was that truck. A truck that has disappeared replies Clemencia. I don’t lose the hope of finding it one day. Why are you so interested in finding it asks Regina. Inside are many things especially a letter she wrote. I imagine that there is something in that letter that is very important. She shows Regina the key that she has around her neck that will unlock the box where the letter lies.

Orca returns to his lair and throws a bunch of ropes to the side and on top of the missing truck. He is pissed that Rodrigo has returned.

Rodrigo is happy to once again eat the food from his country. Noel notices Aimee not eating and asks if everything is okay. Aimee says she’s not use to such strong flavors from her food. She says she’s sorry. Leonarda promises tomorrow they will have food more to her tastes. Aimee comments to everyone how wonderful her godmother is. She directs her comments to her dad that after her mother died, Leonarda should have been the next woman he paid attention too.

Orca yells at Maria del Rosario and the mute to make sure they keep their mouths shut or else.

Gabriel recalls encounter with Jimena/Estrella. He wonders if he’ll ever see her again.

Meanwhile Jimena is getting slapped around by “Mama”. Mama asks where is the money that she stole from the guy on the boat. Jimena swears she did not steal one cent from him. Mama tells her that her joyride is over. She will pay back every cent that she has spent on Jimena. Then slaps her again. Jimena says whatever you want. Just don’t hit me again. Mama says she’s going to talk to the knife throwing guy. He has wanted you for some time.

Clemencia asks Regina when is she going to tell her about the guy she is getting engaged too? I am not going to marry him replies Regina. I am in love with Renato.

Back from break and Clemencia tells Regina that she could not have set her sights on a better man. Regina says she’s scared that he will not respond to her. Of course he will replies Clemencia. You are the woman that he needs. He will respond to you and you’ll be the happiest woman in the world. Regina says your words give me hope. Now you understand why I can’t marry Frederico Martin del Campo. Because I adore Renato. Only him and no one else.

Leonarda asks Rodrigo why did it take him so long to return? Because of the bad memorizes replies Rodrigo. When I decided to come all I could think about was the faces of each woman. You keep thinking about my sister asks Leonarda. She has been dead for a long time. How can you still think about Maria del Rosario after all that she did to you? Aimee enters and asks who Maria del Rosario is.

Renato comes looking for Regina. He needs to talk to her.

Aimee asks if Maria del Rosario was the lady that died for love.

Renato takes Regina outside for some privacy. He says something has happened to him since the first moment he saw them enter the house. He is in love with Aimee.

Aimee keeps asking. Rodrigo says enough. I told you on the ship that we would not talk about this. Obey my orders. Rodrigo leaves the room and Aimee goes to asks Leonarda who says now is not the time to talk about this. Another time.

Renato asks if she’s okay. All of a sudden she appears pale. Regina says everything is fine. Renato says I wanted you to be the first to know how I feel. We have always been good friends and now more then ever I need your advice. Do you think that Aimee will accept my love? Do you think that she will accept marrying me? Regina tells herself that she cannot tell him the truth. It will break his heart. She instead asks if he really loves Aimee. Yes replies Renato. I love her with all my heart. Regina tells herself that she will help him win Aimee even though it will break her heart.

Aimee goes outside and thinks about her savaje.

Juan goes to his father’s grave and swears revenge against the Montes de Oca.

Aimee says to herself that this storm will not deter her from seeing Juan. Rosenda yells at Aimee to immediately close the doors. Aimee says how dare you give me orders! Because I am Leonarda’s goddaughter and I look after her interests. Besides the rain is coming in and water is getting on the floor. So I tell you again to close the door.

Aimee tells Leonarda that she doesn’t know what Rosenda told her, but she just wanted to get a bit of fresh air. Leonarda tells her not to bother the servants (?) Though she has taken Rosenda under her wing like a goddaughter, she really only has 2. Her and her sister. Rosenda is a faithful servant and doesn’t want Aimee to mistreat her. Whatever you say replies Aimee.

Regina tells Clemencia that Renato confessed to her his love for Aimee. And I promised to help him. Clemencia asks her why did she not tell him about her feelings. Because I didn’t want to mortify him replies Regina. I desire with all of my soul for him to be happy. Even if it’s not at my side. Although I am positive that Aimee does not love Renato. And probably never will. Why do you say that asks Clemencia? Because on your voyage here, Aimee had relations with another man.

Juan visits his dad’s old place and cries. He remembers his father dying. He swears that all the Montes de Oca will pay.

Regina tells Aimee that she wants to talk. She wants Aimee to swear that if Renato asks for her hand in marriage and she excepts that she will never cheat on him. And try to make him happy. Aimee says I don’t understand you. Regina says swear to me. Say it or I will tell dad all about that savaje you meet on the ship. Aimee says don’t! You wouldn’t dare! Regina goes to leave and Aimee says fine. I swear. Now go to sleep. I’m tired. Regina takes off her necklace that Renato gave her. She tells Aimee to start wearing hers for Renato. Aimee says fine. Whatever you say. Regina cries and says I have lost you forever Renato.

Manana: Regina tells Daddy Warbucks that she will not be marrying Frederico; Aimee meets Juan at the beach

Labels: salvaje

In the lobby of the fertility clinic, Dora looks at Lucas with wonder. He says that he's never met her, he'd remember. She says that she feels something inside her as if she's known him all her life.

He asks what she is doing at the clinic and Dora replies that she having AI and she is interested in knowing all about the donor, who he is where he lives... [You're looking at him honey, except that he's donating all the DNA, not just half.]

Albieri is concerned about Diego's mole. He decides to take a sample to have a biopsy done.

Dora's egg harvesting has to be postponed for a month because she had a cold.

Dora tells Vicki that she is depressed about having the AI postponed. She has a feeling that if she doesn't get pregnant this month, everything is going to be different.

Lucas asks Albieri to confirm with Ali that Lucas has decided to convert to Islam. Albieri is shocked and asks if Lucas intends to raise a child under the laws of the Koran. Sure, says Lucas, not having the slightest idea what that means, of course. Albieri remarks on the impetuousness of youth. Lucas thinks Albieri should understand the things we do for love since he just got married. Albieri is spared from answering this because Luisa announces that Leo has come for Lucas.

Albieri tells Lucas not to mention anything about the biopsy until they have the results and Leo tells Albieri that he is taking Lucas to his office to keep him away from Cristina.

Cristina and Vicki are getting a massage.

We get a close up look at Cristina's clown make up - bright green eyeshadow!

We discover that Cristina wanted Leo to hear her message to Lucas. She says that he deserves to be jealous after what he did to her. Vicki doesn't believe Leo has another girlfriend but Cristina is sure that he does. When she finds out who the woman is, she will make sure that the woman never gets near Leoncito.

Back in Morocco, Nariza is complaining to Said about not being able to go to the States right away. Said says that he needs her here to help get ready for his wedding to Jade. At that moment the phone rings, it's Mohamed. He tells Said that Jade doesn't deserve him and he should call off the wedding. Latifa overhears. As Mohamed starts to tell Said what happened with Jade, Latifa unplugs the phone line.

Latifa runs up to Jade's room and tells her about the call. She makes Jade swear that she will says that she is still a virgin. If Mohamed finds out that Jade isn't a virgin, he will think she wasn't one either and she'll be sent back to her family - the worst thing that can happen to a woman. Jade swears.

Said goes out. Nariza tells Abdul that she is sure that Said is hiding something from her. Abdul decides that Nariza is upset because Ali doesn't want to marry again. She admits that and says that she sacrificed everything for her brothers, now they are marrying and she is a 5th wheel. Abdul says that her future is up to Allah, in other words, he's not going to lift a finger to get her a husband.

Said goes to Ali's house but Zoraida tells him that Ali has left for the airport. He asks to use the phone. He calls Mohamed and with Zoraida listening on his end and Latifa on Mohamed's, he finds out about Jade's virginity fiasco of the previous night.


Said asks Mohamed not to tell Nariza or Abdul about what has happened. He will take care of it himself. Ali flashes back to his (few) meetings with Jade. After Said leaves, Zoraida gets a call from Albieri. She tells him Ali isn't there. After the call, she wishes that Lucas had never come to their house.

Lucas is hanging around Leo's office doing nothing. Finally, he says that he is leaving. Leo can't resist the opportunity to ask if he is going to see Cristina. Lucas tells Leo that Diego never would have boinked Cristina if he had known that she was Leo's girlfriend. Leo says that he trusts Lucas; he doesn't trust Cristina. Lucas replies that Cristina was nice to him and listened to his problems. Then Leo has the brass ones to ask why Lucas doesn't tell his troubles to his father instead of a stranger. Lucas tells Leo that he already knows about his problem - his marriage to Jade.

Leo asks why Lucas can't be Jade's boyfriend and get to know her better. Lucas repeats what Albieri told him - Muslims don't date - they marry. Well of course, Leo isn't interested in listening and he tells Lucas that Jade's family just want to trap him. He tells Lucas that he can't believe that he is being manipulated so easily. Then he says that Diego wouldn't have done that. Poor Lucas comes to the conclusion that Leo would rather he had died and not Diego.

Luisa suggests that she and Albieri go out dancing. Albieri suggests that Luisa invite Betty/Molly over for dinner so they can discuss cloning.

Ali arrives in Miami and takes a cab to Mohamed's house where Jade is on the balcony sans veil. She sees him and he sees her. Ali tells Jade that she is coming back to Morocco with him. She says that she will never marry Said. Ali replies that she will learn to love him but if she really doesn't want to marry him, he will cancel the wedding. He will not make someone marry against their will. Jade is ecstatic until Ali lets her know that she can't marry Lucas either.

Lucas tells Leo that he has to pay a dowry so he can marry Jade. Predictably, Leo is outraged. He pays no attention to Lucas' explanation and finally tells him that if Lucas wants to marry against his father's will, he will have to come up with the dowry and the means to support his wife. Marisa shows up.

Jade tries the 'Lucas is converting to Islam' argument but Ali isn't buying. They exchange quotes from the Koran but Ali says that Lucas is only converting to marry her and he won't approve. Jade points out that a cousin of Ali's was permitted to marry a convert. Ali responds that was different because the cousin was man. If Jade and Lucas divorced, she would have no right to her children (????).

In her room with Latifa, Jade says that she won't give Lucas up. Latifa reminds her that the coffee grounds said that her future wasn't with Lucas. Jade says she doesn't believe in that nonsense. Latifa urges her to marry Said but Jade says those anvil forging words: 'nothing and no one will ever separate Lucas and I'.

Mohamed tells Ali that Said is very concerned about Jade's behavior. He loves her but he has his pride and won't take a bride under these circumstances. Ali says that he won't make a decision until he has checked everything out. He will stay until the end of the month. Mohamed starts to bad mouth Jade but Ali cuts him off. He reminds him that the punishment for slandering a women is 80 lashes.

Said is pacing around his house. When he leaves, Abdul suggests that Nariza move up her trip to Miami. Nariza says that she will leave right away.

Jade sneaks out of her house at night to meet Lucas. Lucas tells her that the result of the biopsy on his mole was negative. She tells him that Ali has come to Miami and he won't let Jade marry Lucas even if he converts. She says that Ali is staying until the end of the month and she is sure that she can change his mind. If not, she will leave her family for Lucas. Lucas says the same. They both agree that nothing will keep them apart.

It's 'days later' and Albieri has successfully cultured Lucas' skin cells. Dora has a last night out before her AI procedure. Lucas is pouring out his troubles to Marisa and her suggestion is that they go out dancing. Lucas tells her how much he misses Diego and that he dreams about him all the time. He asks Marisa if she believes in life after death.

In his lab, Albieri says that Lucas' cells are perfect. If he had an egg, he could make a clone of Lucas. At that moment, Silvia is harvesting eggs from Dora for her AI. Silvia tells Albieri about Dora's eggs. It's destiny. Albieri bundles Silvia off to the seminar he was supposed to attend in Washington. He tells Luisa to go home so he can concentrate on his work.

Albieri has doubts - he hears the voices of Betty/Molly, Molina and finally Diego. He says that he will make a clone for Diego.

Nariza arrives in Miami and is shocked by bare midriffs. She arrives at Mohamed's house just as Jade is sneaking out. She calls Jade's name.

The credits roll.

Labels: clon

Post for discussion of the interview.

Labels: amor