Caray, Caray!

Recap by Marta Ivett


I missed a few minutes in the beginning... but here is what i got to see...

Augie reading some book and planning to work on Renata’s head…
He calls Berta to ask her what lotion/cologne Jeronimo uses. She kids around. He needs to find out. Want your sister and jeronimo to split for good? Then do as I say!

Connie and Hono with Gonzo… she can’t get over Fina’s attitude at the trial… Hono says she is probably resigned to stay in jail for good. They feel relieved at that. Gonzo opens his eyes and Connie gets startled… Hono encourages her to keep talking to Gonzo… Gonzo lifts his hand and caresses her. Hono tells her he is remembering their growing up together… Gonzo even cries…

Chema’s dad and accident sister Julieta talk about Adri’s plan to pass as Chema’s girlfriend to help him out. He tells her to talk to Adri… they will all team up to not let Chema get upset, Doctor recommended as little stress as possible for Chema.

At hacienda, Marina is reprimending Carlos for not using gloves, he got burned with acid… They comment that Manuela is great with home remedies for illnesses… egg whites for the burns, tomato for fever…

Ezeq and Alfo eating something she cooked, he is praising her cooking… but plays a practical joke on her first… they say you conquer a man via his stomach…
Alfo says once she starts working she wont’ be able to pamper him as much. He asked for permission to go to Kari/Laz’s wedding. Ezeq says Augie was even interested in the details… he might have something planned regarding it. HE is worried that Augie’s issue is obsession.

At la bonita kitchen Herminia says the Carlos accident might be about Mati’s curse. Carlos mom overheard it… She demands to know what is it about Mati’s curse.. right now.

The trial continues… they ask Fina to say something. She fakes confusion… After getting the question repeated to her, she says she is not Fina, she is Regina Soberon. She wants THAT WOMAN to return her daughter to her. Gina gets really upset. (wow, Fina can play Gina to the tee!). She took my daughter and stole my Roberto, the love of my life. If I get my daughter back, my Roberto will also come back to be with me.
Nata and Jero comment that Fina has turned crazy.
The defense lawyer requests a psychitiatric evaluation done on Fina and the judge agrees and stops the proceedings.

Marina prescribes an antibiotic for Carlos… some of the burns are almost 3rd degree so some portions of the hand will take long to heal. Carlos keeps reassuring Mati, but she suggests they split while he heals. Lazaro asks her to stop the silliness of the curse.
Marina laughs when she hears about the curse… The world is full of accidents, not only for the people in love. Carlos says he will find someone else to do his work. Lazaro says he can learn, after all Carlos had promised to teach him all he knows. So there is something positive from the events.

At his farm, Augie tells Ezeq that the spurts of plants look different from the La Bonita… Augie says he can’t wait for the Bonita spurts to come up, he ordered the same grape from Europe. It was very expensive but his ‘renacer en ti’ wine can’t wait long. He will get that production batch out whatever way he can. Ezeq is amazed at Augie’s resourcefulness. Auggie says you should know by now that I get what I want.

Coming out of courthouse… Gina is finding it hard to believe Fina’s act. Nata says she can’t believe it either, when she came to visit her she looked very sane.

They all agree that in the end, what matters is that justice is done.

Ines, Isidro, Matt and Adri leave.

Gina, Jero and Nata head to hospital to see Gonzo.

Julieta calls Matt, agrees to meet with him and Adri at the office… something about Chema.

The Fiscal(DA) is angry about Fina getting away with delaying the trial… he doesn’t buy her story because she knows that will change her outcome.

Connie and Hono reprimend Berta that she was supposed to watch Gonzo. She claims Gonzo was sleeping so she went to the cafeteria. She brags that she bought some presents for him. She gets away with making Connie feeling guilty … Hono is not so fast … ‘crea fama y echate a dormir’ (interesting line… build fame and go to sleep, meaning if you get everyone used to you behaving some way, the stream will continue running)
Hono gets phone call telling him what happened at Fina’s trial. Connie is upset about it.

At office, Julieta wants to talk to Matt and Adri. Julieta tells Matt that Chema gets really stressed with Matt’s hanging around.

Jero, Gina and Nata arrive at hospital, Hono tells them that this ‘crazy spell’ of Fina’s is very convenient for her. Berta overhears it and thinks that Fina got away with her wish again… Berta supports the idea that Fina has gone crazy… brilliant mind, but psycho. She wants Fina to stay locked, no matter where. Nata agrees, as long as she is locked somewhere she can’t harm us.

At nuthouse patio, Fina meets with Blanca again at fence… Fina says she took the first step… Blanca tells Fina she has to act like that ALL THE TIME. Fina asks her for more info, what do they ask, what tests do they put her on… Blanca tells her she has to convince them she committed all the crimes under an unconscious state of mind.

Julieta tells Adri and Matt that they need to be very convincing. She offers to play being Matt’s girlfriend in front off Chema… Adri says she is not totally thrilled with the idea, but it is good. Matt looks like he is not a happy camper either. But agrees too.

Dona Elvira is concerned about Carlos… She tells Carlos it was because of Mati’s curse. Carlos gets mad at his mom. Lazaro pulls Mati away… Carlos bans her from mentioning that his accidents are because of Mati.

Lazaro consoles Mati… she has to forget her curse silliness…

Chema brings Adri to present her to his dad as his girl. Chema walks away to make capuccinos for them, Adri explains to him that she and Matt will fake being Chema’s girl and Matt will fake going out with Julieta for Chema’s sake. Dad is very thankful… there are still angels in this world. God bless you for what you are doing for my son.
Alvaro seems to be giving questionable prescriptions to some patients… he gets paid and is scanning the bills weird… the short guy calls him and tells him that they are saying that Kari is a widow but is not a widow… Alvaro hangs up and wonders if Kari knows he is alive… of course, Jero must have told you! And even then you are marrying? … darn wretch (moving hand as if he is strangling her)..

At La Bonita they are all excited about upcoming wedding Kari/Lazaro… from kitchen they hear Carlos yell… seems Mati is trying to spoon feed him but the meat pieces are too big… he needs someone to cut his meat… he is clovered by his mom and Mati… he turns them both down and asks Lazaro to cut his meat for him. Mom insists in doing it. He just burned his hands, but does not want them to treat him like a small kid… Mom offers to stay longer but he insists she go to the house to sleep… if he needs something he will ask… Lazaro is really enjoying the scene, along with Manuela and Kari who are standing around the other three.

Fina says she has to be smart and do things right… what drag to have to cry so much. Some other woman comes by, she says she doesn’t buy her play… she needs a maid and wants her to do it… the cop lady comes and gets the presa off Fina, but then demands money, not gratefulness… LOTS of money if she wants more protection. Fina offers the money once she gets sentenced… When the cop leaves Fina laughs saying she is dumb, keep waiting for the money…

Jero and Nata are about to leave the hospital so Nata goes in to say goodbye to Gonzo for the night.

Everyone else is leaving.. exc Berta and Matt.

Nata is saying goodbye to Gonzo, Gina will stay for the night, Nata is not good company today… she is a bit unsettled by everything her mom said… to stir back the story with her dad… Gina tells Nata that no matter what, her dad loved her, and her goodness she inherited from him… Nata is moved by those words… Gina gives Nata the picture of her dad with Gina and baby ‘Berta’… Nata says she wishes she could have got to know him. Nata thanks Gina… Yes, my dad was a good man, a man who loved me and who was named Roberto Gamba…
Gonzo opens his eyes, looks at her and says ‘I am your dad’… (Gina and Nata impacted)

Previews: Gina and Nata jump for joy…
Voiceover: Fate smiles again at Nata but…
Marina calls Jero: Jero! We are expecting twins!! / We are having twins?? (happy Jero, Nata sees this)
Voiceover: Hard blow for Nata, and lucky streak for Agustin!
Berta: Marina is expecting twins, so you better take advantage of this moment.

Labels: Cuando

Candy is so furious about Vince pretending not to know her: "I'll have him at my feet! I'll have him licking my boots!"

Pepe tells Tomás to get it together and control himself. "I'm insecure. That rich guy Alex has everything." "Don't be a martyr. If you want my sister, shape up and fight for her."

Candy and Chela share their gripes with Ana. She says they should trust Pancho.

Pina is surprised to see Vince home before dawn - she's happy about it, because it's still their anniversary night! He leaves to sleep in the guest room. She complains about her many years of celibacy.

In the morning, Candy visits Pina, who is drooling to know the identity of the man in the video. While not "outing" Vince, Candy pours many delightful insults on his head. He writhes in anxiety. Pina says too bad for the family of that nefasto (guy who does a lot of harm), "while I in contrast have an impeccable husband." Candy likes Pina and offers to appear on her radio show and reveal the identity of the man in question to the whole country. Vince thinks it's a bad idea. In leaving Candy invites Pina to tea at 5 next day, "like the English." She'll teach her how to give exotic massages and how to pole dance.

Rebe comes over to Pancho's house to talk over the video scandal. Commences another tiresome fight with Chela which almost ends in female fisticuffs. Pancho says, you put me in a horrible position, cuni, you don't trust me, you treat me like a child... Chela wants to reveal her secret: "I've loved you for seven years..." He misunderstands and thanks her for her years of loving attention as pillar of the family.

Lunch line at school: Ana now drools over Freddy.

When Pancho gets to work there are scores of reporters asking about the video. "Are you going to resign?" Rebeka and Barbara were gossiping about the revolting Vince vs. cute Pancho when they find out about the reporters. By the time they get outside Pancho has arranged an impromptu press conference and has invited all the reporters to be his friends.

Tomás and Pina meet cute in the elevator, she sighs with delight over the gorgeous hunk with the bad hair. Perhaps Pina's abstinent stretch will come to an end?

Labels: familia

Amigos- It’s been over a week since we’ve heard from Jules. Jules, we hope you’re ok. Please check in and let us know you’re well.

Jules may still surprise us today with one of her great recaps. In the meantime, here’s one of my 10 minute recaps from memory. Please fill in anything I might have forgotten.
Matias reacts reasonably well to Adri’s plan to pretend to be Chema’s girlfriend until he kicks the bucket. He tries to convince her it’s folly and that Chema should know the truth, plus they won’t be able to keep the truth from him forever. Adri knows, but she wants to make him as happy as possible for as long as possible. They’ll cross the Truth Bridge when they get to it. Matias is weepy, but he understands why Adri wants to do it. They both dissolve into tears and hug.

Jero returns from his talk with Obispo Juan Cristobal and meets Nata at the hospital. She greets him with a kiss (wiping away the lipgloss she leaves on him), and they chat about what a blessing JC (the obispo, not Jesus) has been in their lives. His story and words of wisdom have brought them both peace. They smooch some more. Luckily, Berta isn’t lurking around the corner with a scowl this time.

The next day, Fina’s trial begins. Berta begs off attending (she’s such a delicate flower you see) and gets the royal stink eye from Hon&Con. Everyone else attends. In the first row sits Isidro, Inez, Regina, Renata, and Jero. In the next row sits Matias, Adriana, Honorio, Connie and Antonio. They are later joined by the private detective. Fina is behind bars directly in front of them, and behind the judge’s back. She stares at the crowd with disdain and gives them an evil half smile. The charges are read one at a time. The list is long.

-The kidnapping of Regina Jr. (Gina flashes back to the empty stroller and her panic.)
-The death of Roberto. Fina’s lawyer says there’s no proof. It’s Gina’s word against Fina’s and Roberto’s death was ruled as a natural death by heart attack. (Gina flashes back to Roberto on his death bed trying to tell her Pepa did it.)
-THREE attempts to murder Regina. The peanut gallery is shocked. Fina thought bubbles that she can’t believe she failed so many times to kill Gina.
-The murder of Rafael.

Jero gets up and leaves the room and Nata follows. He can barely contain himself and can’t stay in the room to hear the details of Rafa’s murder while staring at Fina’s ugly mug. Nata understands and says he can go home and she’ll see him there later. She tells him she’s sorry. Jero wants to stay and support her. They hug, kiss, and go back to the room arm in arm. When they get back inside, Gina asks if they’re alright and calls Nata “hija”. Nata tells her she loves to hear Gina call her that, and they hold hands and send each other waves of love and support.

Meanwhile, Berta takes the cash Fina extorted from Gina, which she got from Jero, and shops till she nearly drops.

Chema takes his dad produce shopping and talks about his work with the center. Dad is proud of him. Chema talks about his great girlfriend Adriana. They run into Hit n’ Run Sister, aka Julieta, who has come to buy ingredients to make a friend’s birthday cake. Chema offers to make the cake for her and she accepts. Chema then passes out in the market. A while later, he’s sitting and drinking juice. He is now sure something is wrong with him and remembers he has to go to the doctor to get his test results. Since the doc told Chema’s dad that he WOULD tell Chema the truth if he came to him, Chema’s dad stalls him by saying he’ll pick up Chema’s results and talk to the doctor. He assures Chema he likely just has a vitamin deficiency.

Later, in Chema’s apartment, he’s tucked into bed, and Dad talks with Julieta. Julieta, like everyone else, tells Chema’s dad that he shouldn’t keep the truth from Chema and he’ll figure it out soon enough anyway. Dad is determined to keep up the ruse for as long as possible. And with the drugs the doc gave him, which he has started to give to Chema, these fainting spells should diminish.

In the wine country, everyone is excited about the upcoming wedding of Laz and Kari.

Leon (Alvaro’s spy) gets more info from Mati about who’s getting married and when. (She brings him fresh lemonade and affectionately calls him chiquitito. How can he betray these sweet people?!) He reports to Alvaro. Alvaro gets Doc Tumor to use his contacts and money to get him two fake passports for him and Kari. He wants to take her to the States. It’s only after he gets the passports that he tells Doc Tumor that he’s a fugitive on the run. Doc Tumor does NOT want the cops on his trail, so he tells Alvaro to get out and not to come back.

Augie returns to Cruz de Amor and gets the wedding details from Zeke (so that he can start to make his evil plans). He wonders why such a religious woman like Kari, who is a widow, is not getting married in the Church. Zeke dances around the subject without giving away the fact that Doc Nasty is still alive. After he leaves, Augie channels Doc Nasty by saying if Nata can’t be his, she can’t be anyone’s.

Manuela invites Alfie to the wedding, and to be a witness, on behalf of Kari. Alfie is pleasantly surprised, but Manuela tells her Kari has forgotten all about the past so Alfie should too.

New character alert! Manuela has received a disturbing call from her son in the States. He and his wife are trying to send their teenage (15-16) daughter Alison to an eating disorder clinic, but she refuses to go. Manuela wants to bring Alison to La Bonita to stay with her instead. If after being around Manuela’s delicious cooking for a while, Alison still can’t kick her disorder, then she’ll be sent to the clinic. Since they don’t know how Jero and Nata will feel about another person in La Bonita, Kari offers to have Alison stay with her and Laz in their new house.

Mati and Carlos are super cute and loving, but sad that with the Padre out of commission, their wedding will continue to be delayed.

Kari and Laz get frisky and talk about starting to make lots of babies. Kari makes Luz Maria’s baptism gown and loves being a godmother for the first time.

Luz Maria is doing so well and has grown so much that she doesn’t need the heat lamp anymore or Marina’s daily check-ups. Alfie says she will miss seeing Doc Marina each day (they’ve become good friends). She tells the doc about Jero coming back for the wedding and wonders if she’ll attend. She doesn’t know if Nata is coming back too. Doc Marina looks excited at the prospect of Jero returning alone.

Avances: I can’t remember much, but I did see another avance later in the evening that was different and looked like they were previews for the rest of the week. I won’t give it away if no one else saw it. I will say that there is a huge surprise in store for the Nata-Jero-Marina triangle!

Labels: Cuando

Mónica is still daydreaming about Pepe - both the kiss and the nut-cracking. (It's hard to tell which part of the memory she savors more.) Freddy can tell that she has something on her mind. Later, she admits to Karina that she doesn't want to feel what she's been feeling. K thinks M really should give Pepe a chance, in case he's her one true love. Mo tells K she watches too many telenovelas.

At dinner, Candy and Chela give Pancho a hard time about his fancy new table manners (such as not speaking with his mouth full) and anything to do with Rebeca in general. Candy finally gets around to telling him that Rebe fired her.

The kids go on their field trip (to a children's museum or somesuch) and have a great time. Lupita and Alex have a great time. Elena watches with a scowl.

Pancho goes to the garage to give Tomás a good talking-to. He repeats Chela's favorite quote, that the thief always thinks everyone is like him. "Lupita would never betray you." He tells Tom that Lupita tried to call him last night but he wasn't answering his phone. Tom says he went to bed early. (He doesn't mention that he "went to bed early" because Betty was there.) Pancho explains that Lupita wanted to let him know that she'd be going on a field trip with Alex and the kids. Thomas throws a tantrum over this. Pancho says ever since Tom and Elena's parents died, he's cared for them like they were his own children. Thomas replies yes, but when it was time to move into the big house he only took his own children with him.

The field trip returns to the Casa Popular. Alex high-fives the kids, saying "give me your five [in English] or whatever it's called." He asks if they'd like to learn to swim. They like this idea! Lupita quickly cuts this off. Pancho approaches and reminds Alex that Lupita has a boyfriend. Privately, he warns Lupita that Tomás took the news about the field trip very poorly.

Chela goes to Avon and announces to Celeste that she's meeting with Pancho, for which she needs no appointment. However, she goes straight to Rebeca's office, but panics and hides under the desk when Rebeca and Vince approach. She overhears Rebe flirt with Vince, agree to go to dinner with him, and insist that Pancho means nothing to her. Chela sneaks out and goes home, angrier than ever.

Tomás confronts Lupita, angry that she didn't invite him on the field trip. She reiterates that she tried to call him, but he didn't pick up. He gives her a trash bag full of all the gifts she's ever given him. (Just as I'm thinking "this reminds me of the trash bag full of Fernando's gifts that Lety had in LFMB," Tomás pulls out the very same stuffed giraffe.) Among the gifts is an unidentifiable macaroni sculpture. "I didn't even know what this was, but I liked it because you made it." Then he breaks up with her forever, we hope. Lupita cries to Ana about it.

Chela tells Candy what she overheard. Chacho shows up and they ask his advice. He tells Chela to think less about Pancho and more about herself. He also slyly asks if she's gotten anything floral lately. Chela says the way she feels inside is something like Nico's intestinal flora (something like that).

At the office, Pancho has some concerns about about the dinner with the Arab investors. Rebeca is impressed when he notices another financial oddity (something about reduced transportation costs not being reflected in the price of something). They call Fernanda and say hi so we don't forget that she's not dead yet.

It's Pina and Vince's wedding anniversary. She really wants some romance. He says he's too busy. Has to get ready for the Arabs. Dejected, she reaches for Abejita. Abejita thought-bubbles that she'd rather be with Popeye.

Speaking of whom, Pancho tells Popeye that it's official: Abeja is pregnant. He expects Popeye to do the right thing. He'll arrange everything as soon as this thing with the Arab investors is done.

Candela prepares for her date with Vince. She reasons that she has nothing to lose, and plenty to gain.

Angrier than ever, Chela goes to Rebeca's apartment for the twice-delayed confrontation. She's full of accusations, but they're so vague that Rebeca has no idea what she's talking about (and especially no clue that Chela overheard her with Vince). Rebeca is totally confused, but doesn't waste the opportunity to needle Chela about her feelings for Pancho.

Alex goes to see Lupita. She tells him to go away. Meanwhile, Pancho, feeling guilty about Tomás's bitter words (and not knowing yet that T dumped Lupita), stops by Casa Popular to ask if Tomás needs anything. He notes that T has been drinking and later calls Pepe to look in on Tomás. (Pepe comes over, Tomás is still drinking and of course does not mention his tryst with Betty, but does reveal that he was the one who initiated this breakup.)

Chucha and Goya are discussing some gossip from Adoración: Pina wants to keep Abeja's pregnancy a secret (at least from her own dopey friends) and give away the pups. (This is pretty funny - Pina had asked Ado to GET gossip FROM Chucha and Goya, not GIVE them Pina's gossip.) Ana overhears this and is angry.

Pancho gets to Rebeca's place and she snaps at him that he's wearing too much aftershave. After a snippy conversation about what he's supposed to smell like, she finally calms down and explains that Chela came to visit. She tells him that he needs to keep his family out of the business and keep the business out of the family. Pancho is upset - not with her, but with Candy and Chela. He says they'll have to cancel the etiquette lesson for tonight so he can have a serious talk with his family.

Candy goes to the bar. Vince doesn't see her right away, but the other bar patrons stare at her like they've never seen a woman before. (It's kind of a sausagefest in there, actually, so maybe they haven't.) But before she can say hi to Vince, a video appears on the big TV: it's the Elf's video of Catgirl from the massage parlor. Yikes! (Interestingly, however, Vince's face is never seen in the video.) Vince is horrified. The drooling bar patrons recognize Candy. Candy expects Vince to help her out, but instead he pretends not to know her and runs out of the place.

One of the guys asks Candy to give him a massage. She replies, "I'll give you one for free," and slaps him!

Pina is on the phone with Kathy, her snobby friend, telling her about something that sounds very interesting and rude but I don't completely get it. It might have something to do with Vince's bathroom habits. Adoración is enjoying the eavesdropping when Ana shows up with Popeye. "Who are you?" "I'm the daughter of your husband's boss!" The dogs are happy to see one another.

Candy and Chela worry that the video is all over the Internet and will seen by everyone and be a big scandal. Candy wants revenge - I think she thinks Vince is responsible for the video.

Ana tells Pina that if she wants to avoid a scandal, to just let Ana keep Abeja's puppies. Pina is fine with that. Ana admires Freddy's photo. Pina responds with dismissive laughter.

Ana goes home and tells her aunts about the dogs. They don't tell her what Candy's so upset about.

Pancho comes home early and yells at Chela and Candy. "Good, you're both here so I can kill two birds with one stone!"

Next time:
The Catgirl video becomes the hottest thing since the Hamster Dance. Pina asks Candy who was the guy in the video.

Labels: familia

Things are still crazy for Gloria at work. I am filling in for her tonight. As always, your corrections and fill ins are appreciated. I was a bit low on snark tonight.

El Refrito
Lucia and Carlota talk about the necklace. Tony calls and wants to speak to Carly. They talk about the move. He invites her and the whole family to the Ag Association shin-dig.

Camilo has entered the joyería to buy a pearl necklace (so many places I could go with that.) There is a little back and forth. Camilo says he’s there on behalf of Lucia Curiel. The jeweler asks if she told him how much the necklace cost. Sr. Joyero isn't so sure this plaid clad buffoon can afford it.

Lo Nuevo
Ivan, Camilo and David meet. Camilo will be in charge of operations while David will be the financial chief. Businessy stuff about the packing plant. Camilo is sure the dude in charge of it can do the job but he and David will be “echando un ojo” (to keep an eye on him) just in case. David’s phone rings. He explains he has to answer since his brother had an accident last night. Camilo gets a little nervous. Esther wants David to stop by that evening and help her convince the Bobblehead to put Saul in a private hospital. David gets off the phone and Camilo wants to know what kind of accident Saul had (as in “Did he accidentally run into my brother’s fists over and over?”)

Cut to Ivan explaining to Tony it was an auto accident. Saul had been drinking. Saul got the worst of it: broken leg, broken ribs and serious burns. Para colmo (to top it all off), Meandragon Sr. doesn’t want to take care of him. He needs to be transferred to another hospital in Hermosillo for the burns, but JJ doesn’t want to help or pay the bills. Ivan informs Tony that JJ threw Saul out a few days ago and doesn’t want to have anything to do with him. Tony is going to talk to the Bobblehead immediately.

And that’s just what he does. He tries to convince JJ that he can’t just abandon the boy like he’s some street animal. JJ is mad about the papers publishing the story about his stupid son was driving around drunk. Tony thinks Saul needs to be in a more adequate hospital with more resources; one with a burn specialist. JJ doesn’t want to and asks that Tony not insist. JJ says with all due respect that it isn’t really Tony’s business anyway. It’s a family matter. Tony, playing to JJ’s real desire, suggests that he think about his aspirations as Ag Association president. If word gets out that JJ would treat his own son in such a manner, Tony doubts the farmers would vote for JJ. (cue the ominous male choir.)

Camilo delivers the pearl necklace to Lucia (in a cheap plastic bag?) He runs off like a little kid. Lucia tries to go after him, but the gate is locked. She takes the necklace up to her room. She stares at it and wonders how Camilo bought it. She calls him. She asks how he bought them. He said he had some savings. She says Carlota is resigned to not recovering them and Camilo says then it will be a surprise. Lucia says she can’t accept them and Camilo says he wants her to accept them. He only asks that she not say she got them from him.

JJ has given in. He’s going to see that Saul gets proper medical care. He tells Judit and Esther to get rid of the suffering faces. It puts him in a bad mood (what doesn’t?) He tells David to get Saul into a better hospital in Hermosillo even though it’s going to salir un ojo en la cara  (cost him a fortune) but he doesn't want it said that he left his son in the street like some dog that’s been run over. Esther thanks him. The children comfort Esther. Judith said he relented. David says he’ll take care of it first thing tomorrow. Esther tells them “see, he’s not so bad?” Twit. The hijos do not agree. David says JJ didn’t do it because he asked him, he did it so he wouldn’t look bad. Esther wants to know why they always think the worst of their father. Really? Where has she been for the last 30+ years? Esther asks Judith if she’s just mad because JJ wouldn’t accept that “pelado” (poor person)? David says well, that “pelado” is going to be the Director of the Mexican branch of the Maguire company. Judith says Reeeeealllly???

Camilo is giving Arcelia a bear hug and the good news. He wants them to move to a bigger and prettier house. Arcelia says no. She likes the house she’s in just fine. She’s close to everything and her friends are nearby. When his dad knew he was going to die, he wanted to be brought home to die there. Antolin arrives with dinner (tortas…ahogadas?) Arcelia gives him Camilo’s good news. Antolin asks why. Camilo explains about Tony, Ivan and Maripaz going back to LA. Antolin asks “so he’s going to marry that zorra (tart, slut...you get it.)” His mom tells him not to be so crude. Antolin kind of brushes it off and asks if Alex will be going, too. Camilo says yes and Antolin says Carolina will really suffer over it…oh, by the way, she told me you saw her last night mama. Arcelia says yes, I thought she was very nice. Camilo says speaking of last night…did you have anything to do with Saúl’s accident? Antolin denies it, but Carmen has walked in and wants to know what’s wrong with Saul. Antolin asks why it should matter to her and if he finds out she went to see him he’s going to say a lot of words really fast, got it??

Lucia is flashing back to her first kiss from Iván, waving goodbye to Iván, Iván throwing food on the floor and jumping on the counter, making whoopee in the pigeon coop (wait, how can she flashback on Iván’s fantasy?...or was that hers?) Ivan voice over says they'll be together forever. She cries. She’ll never forget him. She looks at the two of them doing the “goofy face” on the beach.

Meanwhile, Iván does much the same. He is looking at their pictures from the beach. The wall wonders if it will get lucky tonight. I picture of his mom comes up (Don't ask...I don't know either.)  He tells her he’s going to get married. He imagines she already knows everything. He’s going to leave the love of his life, but he’s doing it for his son…her grandson. I wanted to have both, but he felt his child needed him more. Maybe she and Tony don’t agree, but he doesn’t have the heart to abandon the child. Maybe she could send him a sign whether what he is doing is good or bad.

Lucrazy can’t believe Lucia doesn’t want want to go to the party. It would be rude. Carly says, maybe, but she agrees with Lucía. Lucrazy asks if DWMMB knows. Carly says no. Lucrazy says Iván will surely tell her. Lucrazy says they’re getting married in three weeks. Maripaz has to go so folks won’t think she’s pregnant and that’s why they’re getting married. Either way there’s going to be a scandal ‘cause everyone knew Iván was with Lucia and now he’s marrying her sister. What Lucrazy is REALLY worried about is how to explain the boy. Carlota says to tell the truth: that they had a kid ten years ago and they decided to get married for the good of the boy. Lucrazy is not hip to that idea. She doesn’t want anyone to know that Maripaz had a baby 10 years ago and that it was covered up. They have to think of something!

Ivan and Tony are talking passports and visas for Alex and Maripaz. Tony says he’ll take care of it. Ivan leaves and Tony calls the lawyer.

Judith and Camilo are having coffee. She’s telling him about Saul getting into a better hospital. Camilo says he’s pleased, but his face doesn’t seem to reflect that and Judit notices. Camilo lets her know she’s a great gal and all with fabulous qualities, but he’s not in love with her. Judit says maybe if they gave it a little more time and really got to know each other. He really doesn't know her. She asks if he loves someone else. He says no. It’s just what he feels for Judit isn’t “amor”. She sort of wimpers/begs a little and he tells her she’s too good to beg anyone. She’ll find someone she deserves. He swears it was hard to make the decision but he couldn’t continue leading her on (enagñando.) He tells her not to be upset, tears over him aren’t worth it (?) She says no one will love him like she does and leaves. He says to himself she’s probably right. She’s barely left the table and Camilo calls Lucia to find out if she gave the necklace to her abuela. She hasn’t and he asks why. She doesn’t think it fair that he paid so much to get it back. But he wanted to do it. He wanted to quitarte de esta pena (? get rid of the pain….horrible translation, sorry) that was his only intention. Lucia thanks him form the bottom of her soul. Camilo tells her Ivan asked him to take care of her. She doesn’t think he meant this way. Well, Camilo meant it to mean however he needed to take care of her, he was to do it. He asks her again to accept the necklace.

Lucia goes to Carlota’s room. She tells Carly she won’t believe it, buuuut….some taxi driver (?) delivered….this! And she shows the necklace. Carlota is thrilled, but wants to know who recovered them? Lucia doesn’t know the guy left before she could ask any questions. Carlota is sure it was Tony. Did Lucia tell him? No. Did she tell Ivan? No. Well it had to be him. But Carly can’t take them. Lucia convinces her to take them, but not to say a word to Tony since obviously he wanted the deed to remain anonymous. Then she just lies and says it was her. That Ivan loaned her the money. Carly asks how she’s going to pay him back if she doesn’t have a job. Lucia says she’ll figure it out and please don’t say anything to Ivan or anyone. Hugs.

Lucrazy is telling the DWMMB to shut up and let her talk. DWMMB says Sí mamá.

Ivan is freaking out in his office. He calls Lucia. He has to talk to her. She wants to know if something is wrong with Alex. No. Ivan says he’s desperate, filled with regret and doesn’t know what to do. Lucia tells him to calm down. They both made this decision because it was best for everyone. Ivan has to see her. They have to talk.

Lucrazy is saying to Tony that he didn’t invite them to the fiesta. He says that he told Carlota the family was invited and obviously that meant them. Lucrazy says Carlota didn’t mention Maripaz (I hate even typing the name.) Tony says of course she was invited. DWMB puts on the damn simper face and asks if they are going to announce the wedding. Tony says no. She asks why. He says out of respect for Lucia. DWMB is not pleased with that answer, she pulls a Jan Brady. Lucia! Lucia! Lucia! It’s always Lucia. Why does her future husband care more about his ex-lover. Lulu tells her to shut up and stop saying stupid things. She asks Tony to pardon the DWMMB’s arrebatos (outbursts) they really came for another reason: How are Iván and the witch going to justify/explain that the boy is living with them? I didn’t catch what Tony was saying exactly (Bruno is a Darth Vader breather and I was distracted), but it had to do with giving Alex the Lomeli name and declaring in court the whole situation. Lucrazy is not pleased that everyone will find out her slut daughter got preggers all those years ago. Tony is sorry. DWMMB interrupts to say that the only thing that matters to her is that they announce her engagement to Ivan at the party. Tony prohibits it and the little beech (and I don’t mean the tree) says “or what?” Tony reminds them that Ivan is his son and he and Ivan don’t have anything to lose he turns …”y ustedes?”

Ivan and Lucia are meeting at an upscale loveshack. She doesn’t feel right that they are together. Ivan says it’s the last time they have to be alone. He wants to carry her in his soul all the time. He wants to atesorar  (treasure) her memory, her kisses, her eyes, her love. He will never stop loving her. Lucia won’t stop loving him. The past few days have been horrible for him. They've already talked, but he doesn’t understand. She says he has to do it for his son. They are adults, they gotta deal. Time will heal the wounds. Ivan says maybe she’s right, but right now he’s dying inside. He just wants one more night. One more night o’ luvin’ without guilt. They are not guilty of anything that has happened. Lucia throws herself at his face. I think that’s a yes. Backlit smoochies. Casper luvin’ (weird.) Phantom rose petals fall over them (where did they come from?) Back to reality. Lucia gets up to leave. Ivan stops her and gives her the ring he bought for her before that first break up (the one where DWMB threatened to air Carlota’s dirty laundry…remember that one?) He bought it for her and he wants her to have it. He puts it on her finger. They say goodbye.

Lucia goes home and stares at the ring beneath the portrait of TeodoroVan. Carlota comes in. She asks about the ring Lucia tells her it's a going away gift. She cries. Carlota hugs her. I adjust my beanie. Still doesn’t help. You both had the chance to get rid of DWMB with the necklace thing but you didn’t do it.

Ivan’s lawyer pays a visit to Gerry. They talk about registering Alex's new birth certificate with Ivan as dad and changing his name to Alejandro Maguire Lomeli. Gerry supposes he committed a crime by registering Alex under false names. The lawyer explains that falsifying information on an official document carries a sentence of 3 months to 2 years in jail, but with a little “fianza” (bail, deposit) Gerry won’t pisar en el cárcel (set foot in a jail.) They can petition the judge that heard DWMB’s case to set a fine and annul the false birth certificate. The two arrange to take care of it that day.

The lawyer talks to Tony on the phone. Gerry is offering to pay the fine, but Tony is going to pay all the costs. Gerry wants to pay it. The lawyer tells him that Sr. Antony put him in charge and he will answer to Tony. They leave. Gerry still argues that he will at least pay the fine.

Tony and Ivan talk about waking Bruno. Tony fills him in on Alex’s new birth certificate and name change. Ivan worries about Gerry going to jail. Tony assures him that isn’t going to happen.

Carlota is still trying to convince Lucidiot to come the party (I’m past feeling sorry for her. “Spineless wimp” must be a genetic flaw she picked up from Gerry.) Carly doesn’t want to leave her alone, but Lucia says she’s fine. Carly leaves Lucia to sit and stare at the ill-fated engagement ring.

JJ greets his minions and does the schmooze thing.

Lucrazy asks the DWMB why she couldn’t have dressed a little more decently. DWMB replies it’s the fashion and she looks great in it. Lucrazy says “if you say so.” (Score one for mama.) Lucrazy reminds her not to drink and not to cause any scandals. Carlota comes in and says DWMB looks like a ramera (whore/prostitute/floozie...you get it.) DWMB sarcastically say thank you. Lucrazy notices the necklace. Carlota accuses DWMB of stealing it. DWMB says she didn’t. Carlota says “yup and you still owe me for the gargantilla (necklace/choker), too.” (Is there a huge difference between “collar” as necklace and “gargantilla” as necklace?). Carlota waves her off and makes to leave. Lulu reminds DWMB to behave like the lady she supposedly is. DWMB asks in that annoying innocent voice if Lucia is coming. Lulu tells her not to ask stupid questions.

Norteña band (is it Norteña?), dancing and schmoozing.

Lucia is in the park with Alex. She asks if he’s seen his dad and Alex asks “which one?” Ivan she says. Alex tells her about going to the US. Lucia acts as if that is very cool. Alex thinks maybe so, but he will miss everyone and doesn’t want to change schools. Lucia reminds him they can chat on the internet . Lucia asks if he’s seen his mom. He hasn’t and he doesn’t want to. Lucia tells him his mom loves him. Rant: no wonder she can’t get a job SHE LIES TO THE KIDS. She serves up this steaming pile of “she has her little quirks, but I’m sure if you behave she’ll be fine with you .” Lucia you are a dumb ass. Well, Alex is at least glad Ivan is going to live with him…and Tony and Bruno, too. They kick the ball around for a bit.

Applause for the band. Tony explains that a reason for the party is for everyone to feel like part of the business. From this day forward, they are not alone; everyone is united under the Maguire and Son brand. They are the same force and working with enthusiasm they will all enjoy the same success. Aplauso. JJ asks Tony if he can make a quick announcement. He wants to thank the Maguires on behalf of all the farmers for their confidence and support. Above all he wants the Maguires to know that they (the farmers) won’t fail. Since he’s taken the presidency he’s worked tirelessly on behalf of the farmers to improve conditions for everyone…and he has done that (Tony and Ivan roll their eyes.) Today thanks to their efforts, the Maguires have extended them support and credit so they can step up production. Blabbity blabbity campaign speech. Promises he can’t keep about continuing to look for opportunities. yada yada. blech. Aplause for Tony. Nausea for me.

DWMB sucks down the drinks. Ivan gives her the stink-eye from across the room. Camilo states the obvious: Maripaz is drinking. Ivan gets up and takes the drink from her and says she’s had enough. DWMB calls him a pelado and Judit tells her she has indeed had too much..

JJ goes to talk to Camilo. He wants to know why Antolin never came to talk to him. Camilo told him, but Antolin can be difficult. JJ asks David about Saul.

The waiter brings drinks to DWMB again. She grabs one and silences the band. She is three sheets to the wind. She wants to make an announcement and despite her reputation and past actions, Lulu and Carly just sit there waiting to hear it. Is no one going to stop her??? She adjusts her dress…not in a very ladylike fashion (Laisha is AWESOME.) Oh, man. She spills all the beans. They’re getting married, the whole Alex story (priceless look from JJ)…finally Lulu gets up and tells her to shut it. She is escorted from the party.

Antolin comes to visit Carolina. She’s worried because Gerry went with the lawyer to see the judge. Antolin is “annnnd???”

The party is breaking up. As JJ leaves he tells Tony not to worry about the little number DWMB pulled. Tony brushes him off, thanks him for coming and says goodbye to Esther and Judith. JJ tells Ivan he’s sorry…if he had asked his advice…and he just leaves it at that. Jerk. Tony asks Ivan to take charge of the revelers. He’s tired.

JJ loved DWMB’s little scene. Esther thought it shameful. They rehash it all. Esther can't believe DWMBB would just announce it all and then act like the kid was some lost dog. JJ is pleased that the Curial name is now mud…but he does feel bad for Lulu. Esther is going to call the hospital to check on Saul. JJ says “what for?” Man. Cold.

Lulu is screeching. DWMB says she’s getting married a few weeks and she’s leaving and hopes she never comes back (but she says “jamas” which means the complete opposite.) Lulu hates her and hopes the move to the US means she disappears from their lives.

David and Camilo tell Ivan they are sorry. Camilo is sorry Ivan is marrying that nut. Ivan is doing it for his son. They send David off to take care of the merry makers at table 12 (since apparently he has more social graces.) They are gettin’ a little rowdy.

Ivan asks Camilo a favor: to be a witness at his wedding to DWMB. (A whole damn town witnesses DWMB public drunkenness and no one thinks to call the judge or a lawyer or something to get that damn custody order reversed?)

Avances...

• Lucia cries
• Ivan punches the bed
• Ivan and DWMBB marry (I don't know if I can take it.)

Labels: Fuerza

Labels: Cuando

I’ve still got family in town from my nephew’s wedding this past weekend. This recap is pretty bare bones with little commentary from me and no vocabulary. Lo siento.
Pop-up doll Maripaz lies, denies, and then justifies her theft of her grandmother’s jewelry. Lucrazya doesn’t give a damn about MP’s reasons, she just wants to know who she sold the jewels to.

Ivan tries to sell Alex on the idea of moving to the States. The pluses are Ivan’s love, Bruno, and new grandpa Tony.

Lucrazya confirms MP’s lie to the jeweler, but says she wants to keep the jewels in the family. She wants to buy them back, but it turns out the one piece has already been sold, and the pearls are worth a LOT of money. He’ll sell it back to her for 700,000 pesos ($53,000). It’s a very unique piece and this is a special price for the Curiels. He could actually sell the necklace for more.

Alex runs to Caro crying and hugs her. He tells her about moving to the States, but also says he will be strong/brave about it. Antolin encourages this brave attitude and tries to get him excited about the adventures he will have. He also says Ivan has a big house with lots of rooms, and he and Caro will come visit him. Alex asks Caro if they’ll actually come to visit him. Caro is too sad to answer.

Lucrazya knows that with the value of the jewels she was just quoted, MP must have gotten quite a lot of money for them—more than she needed for a lawyer. She wants MP to write her a check for the remaining money or she will tell Ivan that she’s a thief as well as a murderer. MP gets her checkbook.

Lucrazya updates Lucia and shows her MP’s check. It’s still not enough to buy back the necklace, so Lucia contemplates selling her car. Lucrezia thinks it’s a lost cause and suggests using some of the loan money or having Lucia talk to Tony or Ivan. Lucia refuses and suggests that Lucrazya ask JJ. They hush up when Carlota comes in, but then tell her the truth. They only need an additional 450,000 pesos, but Carly refuses to let them get into more complications to get the rest of the money. “Forget it!”

Lucia ignores a call from Ivan. He leaves a message. He needs her help with Alex. He asks her to call him back. Unfortunately, it’s MP who calls him. She wants them to plan their big church wedding. Ivan refuses to have anything but a small civil wedding. MP is happy to hear they are going directly to the U.S. after the wedding.

Anto looks for Saul at the pool hall. The barkeep reports on Saul looking for Gordo, and on Gordo’s new-found wealth.

Celia and Camilo come to Casa Lomeli, just as Gerry and Caro are arguing about Ivan taking Alex away. Celia has something important she wants to speak to Caro about.

Saul and Gordo drink like fish at a bar as Anto watches them. They discuss some shady business Gordo wants to pull Saul into. The work is dangerous, involves crossing the border, and Gordo has the contacts. Saul is unsure. “Take make money, you have to take risks.”

Celia assures Gerry that Anto isn’t a bad person, he just went down a bad path. Gerry wants to know how he got enough cash to pay for Caro’s surgery. Celia doesn’t know, but she’s sure it was shady. What’s really got her worried is the possibility of Anto killing Saul because he knocked up Carmen and hasn’t taken responsibility for the child. She wants Caro to use her influence to convince Anto not to do anything to Saul. Gerry doesn’t think the Anto they know would do anything like that, but Camilo tells him there’s another side to Anto- a vengeful and violent side.

Anto waits and watches as drunk Saul stumbles out of the bar. His phone is off and he doesn’t get the call from Camilo. Gordo gives Saul his car keys and sends him for the car.

Celia cries that she doesn’t want her son to go to jail. Caro promises to call him the next day and beg him if needed. Celia thanks her, kisses her, and leaves with Camilo.

Saul sees a scary looking Antolin staring at him through his car rear view mirror. He takes off with Anto hot on his tail. Another car approaches, which causes Saul to spin out and crash into a small structure. The car bursts into flames. Anto hopes that he dies and drives off.

Unfortunately for us and for Anto, someone has gotten Saul to a hospital. His family is called, David arrives at the hospital. Saul has some contusions, burns, and multiple leg fractures. Drat! Even David seems disappointed. He’ll have some scars and will need some surgery on his leg and knee. David reports to the weeping Mondragon women. There will surely be charges brought against Saul since he was driving drunk and the news will be in the papers. They worry about how to tell JJ. They know JJ will need another right hand man to help run the ranch and the Association. David isn’t interested and doesn’t think Camilo will be either. What JJ needs is someone who’ll be his puppet, and neither David nor Camilo fits the bill.

Camilo reaches Anto via phone early the next morning. Anto says he did nothing to Saul (technically true), but divine justice exists. Carmen is surprised to hear that Anto planned to do something to Saul. Lechita wants to know if Alex is coming to the ranch today.

Lucia calls Ivan back. He tells her the go back to the States plan, in order to put distance between the two of them. He doesn’t want to hurt her or himself by being in the same town/country. Lucia promises to speak to Alex but hangs up crying when Ivan starts with the love talk. She remembers the good times. Ivan breaks down into a puddle of tears. Tony advises Ivan to register his marriage in the States as soon as they get back. He’s sure MP will be up to her old tricks in no time and the U.S. will not be as much in her favor as in Mexico. Then he can divorce her right away, get full parental rights, and come back to marry Lucia. He tells Ivan to keep mum about this plan.

MP whines to Lucrazya about Ivan putting the kibosh on the big wedding plans. Lucrazy tells her she’s lucky he’s marrying her at all since he hates her. They gossip about Saul getting run out of his house.

JJ reads about Saul’s drunk driving accident in the papers and blusters at Esther. This will ruin his (JJ’s) reputation! JJ doesn’t care if Saul lives or dies. He calls his lawyer.

Bruno continues to hate on Camilo. Tony tells Camilo about his and Ivan’s plan to return to L.A. They want to leave Camilo in charge of the Mexico business. Camilo is flattered and grateful. Tony also thinks Camilo should take advantage of their loans to invest in his lands and diversify his crops. Camilo accepts.

Carly tells Gloria it was MP who stole the jewels and they don’t suspect her (Gloria). Lucia feels really bad about the necklace and they’re both sad about the move. Lucia thinks Carly’s such a good person for not turning MP in. Carly says she’s not good. Her family is all she has and she’ll protect them. Even though she may get mad and yell and threaten, she would never do anything to harm them. Lucia feels that same. Carly tells her this isn’t always good because people will take advantage of her.

Camilo thanks Ivan for the promotion and tells him about the ranch loan. Ivan is too down in the dumps to get excited about it all. He begs Camilo not to abandon Lucia. The black crow of misery reminds us that this is not a good thing. Inside the plant, Ivan and Camilo check on production.

Lucia and Alex take a walk and talk. Alex loves Ivan, but doesn’t want to leave his Papa Gerry or Tia Carolina. Lucia tells him, that’s life. It’s normal for kids to move around with their parents because of their work, and kids can’t stay back alone. She assures him they’ll video-chat and they’ll all stay in touch with him wherever he goes because they love him.

Anto swears to Caro that he went to bed early. He swears to God that he did nothing to Saul (technically true). He says he’s leaving it up to divine justice.

The Mondragon women visit Saul in the hospital and reel back in horror at the sight of him. He’s got burns over much of his torso and left arm, up to his chin, and one leg in a cast. (OK, I guess his injuries were pretty bad, but when fully clothed, no one will be able to see most of the scars.)

JJ complains to his lawyer about having to pay for Saul. He doesn’t give a darn about Saul’s health.

The Mondragon women fret that Saul needs surgery so that he won’t be horribly scarred for life and an invalid, but JJ won’t pay for it.

Lucia drops Alex off at Ivan’s house. Camilo shows up just in time to offer his plaid shoulder to cry on.

Bruno gets pampered by Alex. Ivan is sad to hear Lucia dropped Alex off and left.

Lucia tells Camilo about the necklace theft by MP, and how much the necklace meant to her grandma. Even if she sold her car, it wouldn’t be enough to buy it back. Camilo finds out from her which jeweler has the necklace.

Lucia still can’t find a job. Carly is sure they’ll be alright for money soon, since Camilo is doing such a great job with the ranch. Tony calls and gives Lucia his condolences for all the crap going down between her and Ivan. He speaks to Carly and invites her to the big upcoming Ag Association meeting. Lucia indicates she will not go and Carly tries to beg off too. Tony insists and says she will be his special guest.

Camilo shows up at the jeweler’s, asks for the pearl necklace, and says he’s come on behalf of Lucia. “Did they tell you how much it costs?” “Yes.” (Is anybody going to actually use Ranch Socorro loan money to invest in the ranch?)

Avances: Ivan and Lucia give into their passion. A very drunk MP announces during a public event that she and Ivan are getting married because they had a child together 10 years ago.

Labels: Fuerza

... is the ride, not the plot. I enjoy spending time with the characters and don't really care what happens. A way-too-long rehearsal kept me away from home till the show was half over tonight, and nothing much happened in the second half:

Pancho is still flirting with "La Rebe" over fancy food. They almost kissed, and he asked at his shrine-of-Laurita if she (his dead wife) was ok with that...

Pina invited a lady wrestler, Ana María Torres (La Guerrera) on her show to show how to punch a misbehaving husband...

Lupe is going to a museum with the kids and with Alex...

Tomas invited one of his flash gals into bed with him...

Candy and Chela don't like Rebeca...

Labels: familia

¡Hola a todos! Since every day is Halloween at la casa de los Conde, it’s fitting to start our conversation in everyone’s favorite haunted house:

LA CASA DE AL LADO – viernes

Those Fabulous Mora Boys, Iñaki and Ismael, were each left in a cliff-hanger on Thursday. What happened last night?

Well, in Ignacia’s taller, with Gonzo’s portrait looking on, Ismael waves a gun in Javi’s face. As usual, when confronted with real danger, Javier melts into a sniveling, mewling pool of cowardice. To the rescue – an unlikely hero! Nibaldo slips in unseen and conks Ismael over the head, knocking him out cold. [There’s no shortage of blunt objects on Telemundo sets, is there?]

Javier won’t let Nibaldo call the police – he plans to exact his own justice. Traeme una cuerda (Bring me some rope), he tells Nibaldo.

Somehow the new team of Javier and Nibaldo (not quite Batman and Robin) manages to get Ismael back to the house and lock him in Leonardo’s old room, painfully hog-tied, his mouth sealed with duct tape. But the getaway isn’t clean. Ignacia catches sight of Javier locking the door. What were you doing in that room? she asks suspiciously.

He half-drags her back into her bedroom and ravishes her saying: Quiero que celebremos tú y yo el hecho de que no hay nada de temer. (I want us to celebrate – you and I – the fact that there’s nothing to be afraid of.)

Later, when Javier is sleeping fitfullly, Ignacia slips out and tries the door across the hall. It is securely locked.

Thursday, we left Gonzaki in the driver’s seat with Omar trying to overpower him from behind. Omar grabs the wheel, the car swerves and comes to a stop. Gonzo is slumped in his seat. Is he hurt? Is he ... dead?

Omar gets out of the car; Rebeca gets out too, leaning heavily on him for support – she still can’t walk by herself. Omar reaches cautiously into the front seat and to Rebeca’s relief, extracts Gonzo’s cellphone from his jacket pocket. But Gonzo suddenly kicks out, catching Omar off-balance and knocking him down; then Gonzo sets on him, pummeling him over and over. He has him in a chokehold while Rebeca looks on, helpless and horrified. Omar breaks free and starts to run – only to be shot in the back!

Gonzo leaves Omar’s bloody body prone on the ground and grabbing Rebeca by the hair, he drags her back to the car.

Pilar brings Sebastián to Diego’s bedside in the hospital so he can begin his initial diagnostic session. She also tells him unequivocally that Gonzo is the man she loves, the person she plans to spend her life with. But when she gets home, she replays uneasily what Gonzo said to her earlier: Pilar, vete, vete lejos – huye de mí. (Go far away – flee from me.) I’m not who you think I am!

Karen, who has returned from her tryst with Nibaldo early enough to see Pilar come home, then watches her go out again.

Carola is dying for a drink so idiot Emilio escorts his alcoholic little sister to a club for a trago – his treat! When Carola steps away for a moment, a well-dressed woman in her 40’s sidles up to Emilio and startles him by asking: ¿Cuál es tu tarifa? (What’s your price?) Emilio, both embarrassed and flattered by the proposition, tells her gently that that’s not his thing. Too bad, says the lady: Con ese cuerpo y ese rostro, serías millonario. (With that body and that face, you’d be a millionaire.)

He remembers those words later when he is trying to figure out how he will pay for the expensive treatment the doctors have recommended for his poor, (and still nameless) baby girl – daily growth hormone injections.

When Gonzo stumbles back to his apartment, frazzled and filthy from his latest excursion into madness and evil, he’s not prepared to find Pilar waiting for him and full of questions. He explodes at her and then apologizes and convinces her to come to bed. But later she has a vivid nightmare in which her beloved Gonzalo tells her he has murdered her daughter, Andrea – and now he’s going to kill her too. Pilar startles awake to find Gonzalo sleeping peacefully at her side.

The next day:
A cyclist happens upon Omar, still sprawled out and bloody on the ground. He calls for help.

The doorbell sounds at Casa Conde. It is Pilar and she is there to talk to Javier about Diego.

Upstairs, Ignacia spots Nibaldo lurking outside the locked bedroom door and she forces him to admit that Javier has Adolfo imprisoned within.

While Pilar and Javier are in the midst of one of their vicious arguments – he has just said he’ll only participate in Diego’s therapy if she agrees to withdraw her domestic violence complaint – Ignacia comes flouncing angrily down the stairs, ready for a confrontation.

Now Pilar has just the ammunition she needs to get a unilateral divorce from Javier – he is living with the Igster! Javier denies that he is living with Ignacia and repeats that he will never, ever let Pilar get away: Hasta que la muerte nos separe. (Until death do us part). Pilar turns to Ignacia: Te compadezco (I feel sorry for you), she says and leaves.

A woman scorned – make that a double!
Ignacia runs back upstairs, pries open the locked door with a letter opener (or a chisel) and takes in the sight of Adolfo painfully tied and gagged on the bed. She removes the duct tape from his mouth and he sweet-talks her into setting him free, swearing that once she does so he will disappear from their lives forever.

Of course as soon as he is free, he pops up, and grabs Ignacia in a headlock. That’s your mistake, he tells her: Siempre confias en el primer imbécil que te promete algo. (You always trust the first fool who makes you a promise.) But people like me don’t keep our promises!

The DNA test:
Renato has decided to satisfy Eva by demonstrating that Fake Iñaki is really his son: he will get a DNA test. And he asks Gonzo to be in charge of testing. Gonzo makes a show of reluctance and even appeals to Mabel for help. Somehow, he’ll have to take the test too and then switch his results with Fake Iñaki’s. (Of course we don’t know for sure that Real Iñaki is truly Renato’s son.)

So Renato, Fake I and Real I all go to the clinic. Fake I leaves with Renato while Real I hangs back, has his own cheek swab taken and arranges for the results of both tests to be given to him and him alone.

Carola shows up at Sebastián’s office. Hilda explains that he’s not in yet and no, she hasn’t seen Omar either although he was there the day before. Oiga, says Hilda, are you guys, like, together? Before we can hear Carola’s answer, the cops arrive looking for Sebastián. There’s an urgent matter concerning Omar Blanco...

The problem with Diego
Pilar, Javier and Sebastián meet at the Ruiz house to discuss Sebastián’s initial diagnostic impression. Javier’s facial expression goes from smug and condescending to I can’t believe this is happening to me before the words are completely out of Sebastián’s mouth: Diego tiene problemas de identidad – tiene una clara tendencia a homosexual. (Diego has identity problems; he clearly has homosexual tendencies.) [Because come on, this is going to be all about Javier – it’s not possible that a son of his could be gay!]

Not dead. Yet.
Carola phones Gonzo to say there’s tragic news about Omar. What can I do about it if he’s dead? barks Gonzo nastily. And Carola replies: ¿Muerto? No, ¡está vivo! (Dead? No, he’s alive!) And no one can understand how he managed to survive the attack he suffered.

Will Emilio take up the world’s oldest profession?
Will Omar live?
Is Rebeca still alive in Gonzaki’s killing house?
Will Fake Iñaki pass his DNA test with the help of Real Iñaki?
Will Diego survive his horrible father now that Sebastián has planted doubts about the kid's sexual orientation?
Will Pilar take her doubts about Gonzaki seriously and get away before he harms anyone else in her family?
And now that Adolfo is on the loose again, what new mischief will he be up to?
Will Ignacia ever, ever get a clue? [Well okay, that last one was just a joke.]-------------------------------------------

Ahora te toca a ti --

Labels: casa-lado, flor-salvaje, insiste, telemundo

Labels: Fuerza

Big Boy, er I mean Nico, is pressing Pancho to explain why he won't take up with a great woman like Chela. Pancho really doesn't want to discuss this, but finally says that Chela is his best friend; getting together as a couple would risk their great relationship. Chacho feels badly that she overheard him suggest sending Rebe flowers in the first place.

Candy admits to Chela that it seems odd to her that Gladys let her out of her contract. Chela wonders if it has something to do with Vince.

Next morning, Rebeca confronts Candy and says she can't work at Avon because she doesn't have a degree. (Neither does Pancho!) Candy asks if the receptionist and messenger have degrees. Rebeca tells her to feel free to be a receptionist or messenger if she likes. Candy insinuates that Rebeca is getting into Pancho's pants. Rebeca won't let her stay. Candy says she's been fired from better dumps than this and threatens to get Rebeca thrown out.

Pancho supposedly needs an image makeover; I say Rebeca needs a BITCH makeover!

Pina loudly scolds Vince for coming home at 4am soaked to the gills with booze after a night out with Arnold. ("NO SOY GAY!", he screamed in a gay bar when a guy asked him to dance. "Excuse him, he's coming out of the closet, he's a little nervous," Arnold explained.) They are waiting for Abeja's labs and wishing aloud for a negative result; Abeja yaps at them.

Chacho and Pancho are at the market. (Do Chacho and his lollipop remind you of anyone else?) Filemón, the boy we met at the market in the first episode whose mother couldn't afford medicine for some unidentified illness, tells Pancho his mother is doing better. Fil calls him Señor Francisco this time. He says it's because of the way Pancho is dressed. "People treat you the way they see you," is what his mother always says. Pancho gives the lad a huge tip.

The vet confirms that Bee is pregnant. Adoración and Abeja are delighted with the good news. Pina and Vince, not so much. (Pina wails, "We're going to be grandparents!") Ado offers to make Pina a calming valerian tea, but Pina takes four different tinctures instead. She tells Vince they should hide the pregnancy and give away the puppies. Abeja runs away crying. Vince doesn't think it's a good idea; Abeja will hate them.

Rebeca speaks some English on the phone. I shouldn't make fun - her accented English is probably no worse than my accented Spanish - but seriously, I hope whoever she's speaking to has subtitles. Pancho shows up with some tacos that Chela made with cilantro. (Wow! I guess she really did like that cilantro bouquet!) Rebeca complains about the smell (and he also smells like garlic and onions from the market), but thanks him for the flowers. Then they review an ad for some real products.

Rebeca tells Pancho about an upcoming dinner with some Arab investors (or clients?). He's going to have to learn a whole new set of manners because their culture is different.

He wants to know about getting an advance on his paycheck. She says he needs to set up a bank account and a bunch of other things. He admits that he needs the money to settle the same matter that he blew off yesterday's meeting for. She warns him about letting personal matters interfere with his work.

Vincente shows up and demands that Rebeca leave him alone with Pancho. It's a matter of life and death!

There's a photo shoot at Avon. Arnoldo is directing the models. Special theme music signals the arrival of Arnold's apparent favorite model, Bárbara. From their reactions, I can tell the other models envy and resent her. He kisses her a little more than he should and embraces her a little too long. Rebeca comes in and wants to visit and catch up. Arnold says the other models are zombies compared to Barb.

Pancho tells Vince that Popeye's fathered lots of pups, but he'll make sure Popeye does right by Abejita. (He is speaking hypothetically; I don't think Vince actually confirms the pregnancy.) Vince also offers to help, "as a friend," at dinner with the Arabs. Pancho heats his yummy but pungent tacos. Vince very politely and cordially covers his nose with a hankie and excuses himself.

Rebeca tells Barb all about Pancho the vegetable guy. Pancho walks in and can't take his eyes off of the new arrival. "¡Que Bárbara!", he quips. (Nice to know he can remember some names.) She lifts her hand for him to kiss. He is speechless and his hand shakes. I think he likes her.

Candy goes to Casa Popular to tell Chela how the evil Rebeca kicked her out because she can't stand not being the prettiest woman there. Chela will handle it herself! She goes to Avon and Celeste won't let her up until she gives her name. She says she's the president's sister in law, but she doesn't want to visit him, she wants to visit the anorexic, er, that is Rebeca. Rebe says she doesn't meet with people who don't have an appointment. Chela says she'll wait. Feigning peepee pains, she pretends to be looking for the bathroom, then sneaks onto the elevator. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained!"

Vince tells Arnold he's gaining Pancho's confidence. The upcoming dinner with the Arabs will be the perfect chance to get Pancho fired.

Pancho offers to tell Rebe a great joke about Arabs. Rebe declines. Lying (laying?) in wait for some face time with la tísica, Chela overhears Rebe and Pancho flattering one another and making plans for tonight's etiquette lesson. She leaves in disgust.

Alex reports for duty at Casa Popular to work with the kids. They go nuts over him, maybe because he's handsome and gave them presents. Now he suggests a field trip! Lupita is concerned about getting chaperones and such. Candy likes the idea and volunteers Elena's help. (That's just what Lupita needs - her boyfriend's sister along on her first Definitely-Not-A-Date with Alex!)

Rebe says Pancho needs to air out his office. (In a cute twist, Rebeca gets the name of the taco filling wrong.) She schedules an appointment with the bank. He asks why everything has to be scheduled. She says that's how things work. She also explains that salary is different than hourly work.

Tomás asks Pepe how his stint as a pizza boy went. Pepe is still sure Mo will fall for him.

Tearful Chela comes home to an even bigger arrangement of roses than Pancho sent to Rebeca. Goya says they must be from Pancho. Chela says, "throw them in the trash!" (I guess she really does prefer cilantro. Weirdo!)

Pepe wants to know what the deal was between Tomás and Betty. Tom does not want to discuss this, but says it was just that one time and he'll never see her again. And that's not the problem between him and Lupita now; Alex is the problem.

The kids' mothers give their permission for the field trip. Alex impulsively gives Lupita a chaste hug. Lupita says they can use La Burra to transport everyone. Alex asks what she's going to tell Tomás. She warns Alex not to interfere in their relationship, or everything - the field trip, their friendship - is off. He apologizes for being nosy.

Vince is on the roof at home with binoculars, looking for Candy. (He says he can't use the closed-circuit TV system because Pina is watching him.) Instead of Candy, he finds Popeye, who is practicing all of his tricks and moping over Abeja. Adoración startles Vince, who manages not to tumble off the roof. Enzo is waiting for him. has Vince tells her to give him a drink. She promises to serve him the cheap stuff.

Pancho and Rebe return from their meeting with the bankers. Pancho asks her how to write a check.

Vince and Enzo are now smoking stinky cigars while Vince tells Enzo about Pancho's stinky tacos. (Enzo speculates that next, Pancho will put a little stove in his office to heat the tortillas, too.) He offered to help out with the dinner with the Arabs and then had to go running to the bathroom. Also, Catgirl is Pancho's sister. Enzo is excessively impactado.

Next time:
Trick or treat! Candy squeals over something written on a card. Is this the card that came with Chela's pink roses?

Labels: familia

Today's title brought to you by our very own Renata!

This week, we're the victims of the first falling anvil as we're treated to a new intro! Arturo Peniche appears as an "actuación especial". Could Padre Juan Cristobal be a recurring character from now on? As the intro continues, we have several added scenes including an extended edition of the grape-stomp. Lovely!

Fast forwarding through the information from yesterday, Jero tells Regina that he is having a child with Marina. Regi is happy to hear that it won't break up Nata and Jero. Regi flashes back to her feelings of betrayal after finding out about Roberto. She is sure that Nata will be an excellent second mother for the baby.

In the hospital waiting room, Berta asks Nata how Jero could still be with her considering that Nata is the daughter of a serial killer. Jero understands that Fina's actions are her actions alone, not Nata's. Things are going so well between Nata and Jero, they are engaged again. Berta feigns excitement over the news as Agustin arrives.

Nata recalls her discussion with Jero that Augie could be a murderer. Nata carefully chit chats with him and Berta can't help herself from telling Augie about Nata's engagement. Augie keeps a cool head and listens to Nata explain that she and Jero are going to have both a church and a civil ceremony. A few tense moments pass before Augie leaves.

Over at the hacienda Nurse Elsa draws blood from Karina and gossips the livelong day about Doctora Marina's nausea due to her pregnancy. Manuela and Matilde are floored but Karina admits to already knowing about it. Mati is upset Kari didn't tell them and Manuela teases her for being a gossip.

Berta meets with Augie outside the hospital. Nata already knows about Jero's baby with Marina; it isn't going to break them up. Augie isn't so sure. He plans to press the issue and Berta offers to help. She's tired of seeing Nata so happy.

Mama Merida sits alone in the casa and decides to "transform other things" if Carlos won't let her makeover Matilde. She goes shopping for decorative things. I try not to fall asleep.

Carlos introduces Mati and Manuela to Leoncio, the new worker at the hacienda. They are surprised (Leoncio is a Little Person) but very respectful.

Selene calls Adriana for a Chema update. Meanwhile, Chema's Padre visits Chema's apartment but he does not open the door. "My padre? After so many years?" Chema wonders.

Lazaro calls Jero to ask if he and Nata would come to their wedding. He absolutely agrees to be there and if Gonzo is doing well Nata will come with him. Jero offers to pay for the wedding reception at the hacienda and Lazaro is extremely grateful.

Marina comes back into work despite looking awfully green. She admits that she is going to miss so many things about the pueblo.

In Honorio's office, Antonio talks to the Detective and agrees to accept responsibility in his debacle with Fina. It's entirely possible that he could go to jail. Speaking of jail, a gang of badass prisoners menace Fina but she is not scared in the least. Fina and another inmate get in a fist fight and the guards break them up.

Honorio gives Adriana the good news that Gonzo's mansion can finally change ownership to Nata. Hon and Adri discuss their sadness over both Gonzo and Chema.

Nata and Constanza sit by Gonzo's bedside and talk to him. Berta joins them yet her words of comfort and love lack the sincerity of the other ladies. Jero and Regina join the group and, a few moments later, Gonzo's eyes open! They flag down a doctor who checks Gonzo over but has no good news. Gonzo is alive but appears to have no connection to the world. He isn't responding to any stimuli. The hope in the room is shattered.

The Doctor compares Gonzo's situation to a television that has been disconnected. He is alive but there is no connection between his body and his brain. They plan to start intensive therapy to test his physical, emotional, and psychological functions. It could take anywhere from a few days to many years before they truly know if Gonzo is going to recover or remain a vegetable.

Berta plays Debbie Downer as she throws a mini-fit about Gonzo's recovery possibly taking years. He might never wake up! Even if he does, he might not be the same person anymore! Nata tells Berta to cut out the negativity; it's the last thing they need. Berta huffs off but Nata assures everyone that Gonzo is strong and will be with them again.

Manuela and Karina chat about the upcoming wedding. Kari is worried that Doc Nesme might show up at the wedding to ruin it. Manuela comforts Kari; the police are after Doc and he has no reason to return.

Lazaro and Leoncio run errands in town. Once Laz leaves Leoncio alone for a moment, Leo calls He-Whose-Bucket-Has-Not-Yet-Been-Kicked to tell him about Kari's wedding.

In the hospital chapel, Regina and Constanza pray for Gonzo's recovery. Nata prays for the same but she understands that quality of life is better than the quantity of life.

Jero calls Marina to check up on her. He offers to come out to see her but Marina asks him to stop calling her. She will never keep his child from him but it hurts her too much to continue talking to him. Jero refuses to give up on her or his baby.

Fina is not taking well to solitary confinement. She pounds on the door and cries to be let out. Hmm, might this be a foreshadowing to how our villainous viper might meet her end? The director at the jailhouse refuses to allow Fina to be moved until her punishment is up.

Matias, Honorio, and Adriana are debriefed on Gonzo's diagnosis. Everyone anguishes anew but Nata decides that it's time for all the Monterrubios to be strong and optimistic. Regi, Connie, and Hon leave for the cafeteria. Jero admires Nata's attitude and strength. Nata learned it from her padre: "El dolor es inevitable, pero, el sufrimiento es una alternativa" / "Pain is inevitable but suffering is an option". We end as they cuddle on the couch.

Avances: Detestable Doc crushes a glass with his fist and says "I would rather see you dead than married to someone else!" while Augie thinks pervy thoughts about Nata.

Labels: Cuando