Caray, Caray!

Hi folks. Well, it was another fun evening, not heavy on plot development, but pleasant circling the drain with our crazy characters. The trick with this one is just to relax and enjoy the romp without expecting it to go much of anywhere.

So here's what happened and didn't happen. We have a brief review of a drunken Beto hugging Mauricio's muscular butt and finally ending up going to sleep spooning the guy. Estrella bops in, sees the problem and enlists Monita to drag Beto outta there. Estrella will stay with Mauricio of course. Monita warns her she doesn't want to come back and find Mauricio undressed. Clearly, she understands Estrella's little character defect.

It's similar to Jeronimo's character defect. He's viewing Mauricio's disappearance as an opportunity to get into Constanza's drawers, but she doesn't see it that way. While this is going on, Teresa finds Ivan and Aldo sneaking out to see Mauricio. At first she orders them back to bed but when they explain their mission, she helps them tiptoe out the service entrance.

Of course this earns her a brutal interrogation by Jeri and Connie, wanting to know where the boys went and where Mauricio is sequestered. Our dimwit cousin (sometimes he makes Ximena look brilliant) figures that since there's no butler in the house, the cook must be the guilty one. Confess, Teresa, confess! Thankfully the torture method isn't waterboarding but there is some horrible pot banging going on. Nothing compared to three or four leaf blowers shrilling at once like in my neighborhood, but Jeri thinks it will make Teresa cave. It doesn't.

Poor Jeri, he's come up empty with both Teresa and Connie. And he's not doing much better with Oscar. And dang it, he can't find any hooch in Mauricio's house either. Pobrecito.

And pobrecito de Mauricio. Monita has come back and they're having a cozy chat on the bed. He's thinking she slept with him (and she's not about to tell him it was actually Beto!) but just when it looks like he might nibble her lips rather than the sandwich she offers, there's a knock on the door and it's Aldo, wanting to see his papa. The two hug gently but Monita is left out of the mix. Dang!

When we come back from the ads, Moni is explaining why they kidnapped him. His cousin was planning to kill him like a dog! Paula overheard him and Oscar plotting, by golly! Mauricio uses Moni's cell to call Salvador; while outside in the courtyard, our indefatigable Estrella is schmoozing Ivan and causing Aldo to get jealous. Pobrecito de Aldo. Estrella smooths his ruffled feathers by noting there's nothing wrong with a little jealousy and struts off swinging her hips. This gal has an exit strategy that beats all comers.

Back at the office, Jeri and Oscar are rubbing their hands, imagining their own exit strategy...take out a chunk of money to pay the kidnappers, keep it themselves so the thugs kill Mauricio and presto! riches and the company itself. All for them! Gabriela interrupts this love fest to tell them someone is waiting for them in the next office. Yikes! it's Mauricio, alive and well, with Salvador, Monita and Paula, all smoldering with outrage. Busted.

As is Beto. Mamacita is reaming him out big-time for getting drunk and not going to work. Beto pulls out his ritual plea "Me dañas, me dañas" (you hurt me, you hurt me) and Mom replies by holding up some eggs ("huevos" are slang for a guy's...well, you know...) and says "I'm going to fix you some of these. "Cause you've got none! Wow. Pobrecito de Beto.

The confrontation at O.K. Corral breaks down after Oscar explains that the plans to kill Mauricio like a dog was actually a conversation about putting down his own dog after an accident broke his leg. Paula looks like she wants to sink through the floor but Mauricio is suave about the whole thing. Excuses the misunderstanding and explains to our sleazy duo when they ask about Salvador that he is the general director of Surmeño group and his BEST FRIEND. Oooh pobrecitos de Jeronimo and Oscar! They've got Salvador on their hands again. Dang.

Monita and Paula are back in the coffee room squabbling when Mauricio strolls in. Poor Paula is ready to quit but Mau assures her he appreciates her protective, caring impulse and won't accept her resignation....and wants to know if he can see Monita later. Paula makes herself scarce after establishing that neither he nor Monita are hooked up with their old flames anymore. Mau and Moni are alone at last and hey, it looks like they're about to kiss! But nooooo, we get an ad instead. Want to bet that when we come back, that kiss will be interrupted? Yep, you got it.

So who will bop in the door to interrupt our duo? Ugh, it's Connie. And she moves in for a kiss instead. Too unfair! She wants to whisk Mauricio off to home so she can take care of him. But he offered that job to Moni. Will he stand up and insist? No, he caves to the pressure of "you need to be home to reassure your children".

Man, this guy has wimped out so many times it's getting annoying. Sculpted chest and manly biceps aside, one does begin to wonder if there's anything of note underneath his belt buckle. Remember what I said, he murmurs weakly to Monita as Connie drags him off. Pobrecito de Mau. And pobrecita de Moni! And pobrecitos de us. We're getting nada here.

Okay, our galan is at home, snuggled in bed with Dani who's "the best nurse ever". When he asks why they didn't come to the hospital, she and Luisa give him the 411 on Connie's embargo of all visitors except herself. Busted again. Our Constanza gets to hear those spine-chilling words: " We need to talk." Guess it's not just women who say that, after all. Of course Connie weasels out of it by claiming doctor's orders and opening her big ol' victimized eyes wide wide wide and looking tearful. Yawn. Still, he doesn't fall for it completely. Just tells her crisply that he's tired and it's time for her to split. Pobrecita de Connie? Nah, I can't feel sorry for her at all.

So how about another pobrecita? Our Gabriela, who's poster child for the Smart Women Stupid Choices Support Group. She's falling for another load of horse puckey from Oily Oscar and ignoring Salvador's wise warning about the lawyer's lack of trustworthiness. He warns her that next time Oscar's accused of something, he'll actually be caught and Gabi will be bringing him cigarettes in prison. Ojala!

And now a classic scene. Someone talking on the phone while a villainess listens in on another extension. My favorite ploy next to hiding behind doors and strategic bushes. Dani's inviting Moni over to care for Mau and to give him a bunch of healing kisses. (Dani's done her share but a little gal can only do so much). Connie learns, among other things, that the kids call her "momia" (mummy) and "monstranza" (monsterstepmom) so hey, it was worth it. Our pleasure is cut short by another round of ads.

She goes for consolation to gal pal Xime and sure 'nough, Xime delivers some goofy but nevertheless wise advice. After delighting in the nicknames..."you know you DO look like a mummy! And older than your age with that grim mug of yours!" she advises Connie to show a little more cleavage and get over to Mauricio's to defend her territory.

Well, the territory is lively indeed. Ivan and Aldo are squabbling about Estrella, with Aldo blaming Ivan for looking at her like a "sexual object". Well, if the shoe fits, Aldo. And Moni is cutting up the meat on Mauricio's dinner plate and spoon feeding him to his delight. We see Connie's face in the open doorway looking glum indeed....and for a moment there, I feel sorry for her. Well, moving on....

Big-mouth Beto is at the gym, talking his way into even bigger trouble. A whole lotta unfounded gossip about Mr. Tornado, in Vegas or no, was it Atlantic City? all gussied up in a froufrou disguise at a gay ball. Qué!? Hey, and not only that...I think he married one of his buddies in Vegas. Yeah, you can have same sex weddings there, prattles on Beto. Can you all see an anvil coming here? Pobrecito de Beto!

Back to Aldo. Suddenly he seems to have more women on his hands than he can manage. Connie's sister is there, admitting that he was right about her ex-novio, and planting a sweet kiss on his inexperienced lips. Wow. Which hurt more? The slap she gave him earlier or that tender kiss? He's not sure. She sashays out (not as impressive an exit as Estrella though) and we're left wondering.

Beto's still at the gym, now hassling Don Cesar to take on Monita again. Cesar's not sure Monita's 100 per cent interested in her career. Neither are we. But just then, who should show up but Mr. Tornado himself! ( Those of us who watched Destilando Amor will recognize him as the sexy ranch hand who was seduced and tossed by la duena. He also played a faithless fiancé and hapless husband in Heridas de Amor. Can't remember his name, though, for the life of me!)
Anyway, in this show he's Mr. Tornado, damnit, and he's plenty mad. Beto sputters and expects help for all his "pals" at the gym and they're strangely silent. Tornado challenges him to an immediate match in the ring and our blustery buddy agrees but wants to postpone it (forever!) but he pretends until just the next day. Why? Well, because he doesn't have his outfit, for one thing. And no b...s either, snaps his opponent. (Wow, has he been talking to Beto's mom?) Pobrecito de Beto! Costeño will be the ref and is already talking bets on how fast the Tornado will demolish our little guy.

Meanwhile, Valentina (let's not forget her real name) is in the kitchen sparring with Constanza. Connie's offering her money to give up Mauricio and Moni's responding to the insult with trademark physical violence. I mean, who needs words? When our wimpy galan stumbles in to break up the fight, Connie whines that Moni was trying to kill her, and Monita protests that Connie was trying to buy her off. Whom will our sculpted but none too bright galan believe?

And that's the end. But wait.....there are previews!

Mauricio asks Connie "Then what are you doing with the checkbook?" Good question.
Estrella tells Aldo "Te quiero". Oh my!
And Mr. Tornado tells Monita that if she wants to save Beto's butt, she'll have to come live with him in Vegas. Yikes and double yikes!

Vocabulary:

Vamos a dormir cucharadita = we'll sleep spoon-style
calenturiento = Constanza remonstrating with Jeri that he's a guy who's always hot to trot
ladrones y policia = cops and robbers. Teresa chiding Jeri for still thinking in those terms
me dañas = you're hurting me. Beto's signature lament
no tengo ni un pelo de tonto = Jeri, protesting to Oscar that he's no fool
ni de listo = Oscar quipping that he's not bright either
tienes el reproche a flor de piel = Monita grumbling about Paula's irritability. You're so grouchy!
la mala de la pelicula = Connie lamenting that she's always made out to be "the bad guy"
mandar a la goma su talento = throw her talent away. Beto pleading with Don Cesar
achicarse = to get scared, back down, chicken out. Mr. Tornado scoffing at Beto.
cajeteando = bragging. What Beto was doing big-time. "la cajetilla" is a low class braggart. a perfect description of our very flawed barrio galan.

Dicho of the Day:

Perro que ladra no muerde = His bark is worse than his bite. In Beto's case, he's all bark and no bite. But who knows, maybe that will change.

Labels: gancho

Hi all, I have become a Squidoo addict and just put together the beginning of a "lens" on telenovelas. I've been at this so long I've lost most of my notes so I'm asking if you'd mind helping, I'm looking for more of the following:

• MOST needed as I've lost all my lists: The great Spanish proverbs and catch phrases we've learned through the novelas (like the ones decorating this page);
  
• Phrases commonly heard in novelas, like No puede ser! and Qué haces aqui?;
  
• Delicious deaths of telenovela villains (I have a good stock thanks to the last time I asked this question, but there are more of you now!)
  
• Things which always happen (as Carlos just pointed out, COMA and AMNESIA for instance - and there's baby-switching of course). I have a goodly number of those, but there's always room for more...

Could you have a look over there and see what springs to mind? You can leave your ideas here in the comments on THIS post so everybody can enjoy them. Thank you so much! Here's the link:

Telenovelas: a fun, painless way to learn Spanish

.

Labels: announcements, telenovelas

The crumbs from Friday's table: Reality rears its ugly head. Angelica tells Romina to tell her “friend” that unprotected sex can lead to pregnancy or a nasty, maybe fatal STD. Paloma doesn’t want to go to school, she wants to stay in bed with her face in her tear-soaked pillows. Mac is sympathetic.

Fresh meat: Diana and Camila run into each other in the street. Diana says everything is peachy. Camila says Romina’s 18th party is coming up Friday. Camila asks if Rafa got that loan. Diana frozen smiles that Camila seems to know a lot about Rafa’s doings. Camila explains she was at the bank the same time he was. Diana says of course Romina must be passing on news she hears from Emiliano. She’s sure Rafa will get the loan. She says goodbye and rolls her eyes as she heads off down the street. Camila looks after her, puzzled.

Rafa’s at the bank. He doesn’t get the loan. So sorry, says the loan officer kindly.

Rufi and Mac are in the kitchen, ruminating over Paloma’s broken heart. They both think Inaki wasn’t originally playing with her, and that it was rotten to dump her in a note instead of in person. Mac says Paloma probably was just looking for some way to escape the house and she’s too young anyway.

They both wonder where Carlota went and why she was so mysterious about it.

We see Inaki and Paloma in church, getting married. Will you take this woman? asks the priest and Inaki says no. Paloma starts awake from her dream, heartbroken. Waaaaa!

Carmen and Inaki are getting ready to leave the house. Carmen gives Arcadia her wages. Arcadia tells Inaki see you next year and he says I’m never coming back. Arcadia looks nervous and guilty.

German is waiting outside the school and here come Romina and her nemesis Liliana, trading barbs. Liliana spots German and cries out mi amor! and runs into his arms. He looks at Romina over her shoulder, then tells Liliana he needs to talk to her.

Romina’s cell rings and it’s Emiliano. She makes a big deal of saying ‘mi amor!” He wants to know why Paloma suddenly doesn’t want to marry Inaki. Romina says she only heard it from her mother – she has no idea. Why does he want to know anyway? It’s their business.

Rafa is at work and tells Joel that he didn’t get the loan. Joel again says find somebody to finance you. He mentions Camila again. Rafa says no way, he doesn’t want her to think he’s taking advantage of his son’s dating her daughter. Joel says bring her by, let her look. Rafa says no, no and no.

Emiliano has driven to Inaki’s house to look for him and Arcadia says he’s gone and will never come back. Emiliano says weird! He tries to call Inaki, but Inaki’s cell is off. Our hero jumps back in his car.

Angelica has gone to Paloma’s house and is at the door, asking Mac what’s wrong. Mac gulps.

We’re in Pachuca and it looks like Carlota is making good on her threat to put Paloma in a boarding school. The school lady says since Paloma is underage, Carlota can fill out the paperwork and get her admitted immediately. Carlota smiles. She says she wants the best for her niece and adds that she expects them to provide a lot of discipline. Of course, says the administrator, probably thinking of bathroom passes while Carlota pictures cockroach-infested dungeons and clanking chains.

Apparently Mac has told Angelica what’s wrong. Angelica says but Inaki was waiting outside the school very upset that she had dumped him in a letter. What?? says Mac. It was Inaki who dumped HER in a letter. They both think something is off.

Emiliano roars up to their door. He tells them Inaki is leaving for Madrid and he thinks it was all a misunderstanding and can he please please please see Paloma? Mac says of course!

Paloma doesn’t want to get up until Mac says it looks like the whole thing with Inaki was a big misunderstanding.

Romina is at home feeling cranky and German calls. He says it was her that he wanted to talk to outside school. Romina doesn’t want to talk, but he says if you don’t come here, I’m coming over there. She hangs up and thinks that she has to get Emiliano in the sack ASAP.

Emiliano, Mac, Angelica and Paloma in the living room. They hastily figure out what Paloma and Inaki’s intentions were and that somebody wrote those notes. Angelica says whoever did it shouldn’t get away with it. Emiliano will take Paloma to the airport, and Angelica will provide a cover story, namely that Paloma was being counseled by her school psychologist at her home.

Emiliano speeds along a country road; Paloma is near hysteria wanting to find Inaki in time.

Looks like Carmen and Inaki have stopped at a roadside place for some quesadillas, except Inaki has no appetite. Carmen tells him in Madrid he can leave all this behind and he’ll feel better. He says that Paloma is in his heart, so she will be causing him pain in Madrid.

You’ll meet somebody new, says Carmen, and forget Paloma. You think? says Inaki. Were you able to forget my father? Carmen says it’s different. I kept on loving your father even after he stopped loving me. See? says Inaki. I’ll never stop loving Paloma, I’ll never forget her.

Emiliano asks Paloma who she thinks did it. She says Carlota is a prime suspect, but Carlota didn’t know they were planning to marry, and how could she have switched Paloma’s note in Inaki’s mailbox?

Emiliano spots Carmen’s car at the little restaurant. He swerves into the dirt parking lot, honking like mad. Paloma jumps out and runs in, her arms spread wide. Inaki jumps up, thrilled. She says somebody did this to us – I love you and I want to marry you. Jubilation! Well, jubilation on the part of Inaki and Paloma. Carmen shakes her head and Emiliano looks down, sad.

While Inaki and Paloma lovetalk and kiss, Emiliano and Carmen wonder over the whole thing. Carmen says Paloma broke his heart with her note. Emiliano explains that somebody tried to separate them. Carmen can’t figure out how the note in their mailbox could get switched.

Carmen asks Inaki if this means he’s not leaving. He says that’s right, I’m going to stay and marry Paloma. Carmen says but we were all set to go! As if her small mom-self could hold back this love tsumani. Inaki says his mind is made up. Emiliano looks puppy-dog sad some more. Paloma thanks him with a kiss on his cheek and Inaki thanks him with a manhug.

Mac and Angelica are having tea in the living room. Rufi takes a call from Carlota who says she’ll be back after dinner. They all wonder where she went, but are glad she’s not around so Paloma can hopefully beat her home.

Angelica says she used to think that Paloma was more in love with love than with Inaki but now she sees that Paloma wants to escape the repressive regime of Carlota. Mac agrees and worries that Paloma will just be opening a Pandora’s box. Angelica says yes, but at least it would be her decision, not Carlota’s. She reassures Mac that the things Mac taught her will hold her in good stead.

Romina is curled up in her room, remembering her night of hawt passion with German. She dials up Emiliano but his cell is turned off. She leaves a message asking him not to come by – she’s very busy getting things ready for her party. She’ll see him tomorrow.

In the car, Paloma and Inaki realize their marriage is going to make some people unhappy. (We should note that though they can’t bear to be separated, Inaki is sitting up front with Emiliano, and Paloma is stuck in back alone. Is this some gender thing? Shouldn’t they be sitting together in back, cuddling and professing their eternal love?) Paloma speculates that it was Carlota who did all this, but Inaki says it could have been his father. Emiliano says you won’t be able to trust anybody, but Inaki says we can trust you! Inaki wonders if he can still get that job with Orlando – he’ll go see him right away. He and Paloma smooch as best they can over the car seat back, and Emiliano looks like he feels like a fifth wheel.

Inez is at Diana’s house and has brought Juanita, a young woman, the cousin of Margarita (who dat?), who will be a cleaning lady for Diana. She tells Diana she’s so lucky to have a husband who cares enough for her to have household help, but then again she deserves it, as she’s a model wife. Diana simps. Inez leaves and Diana starts piling orders and instructions on the poor girl.

Rafa drops by Camila’s shop and tells him he’s so sorry, but he won’t be able to buy that painting for Diana. His financial circumstances have changed and he has to be practical. She wants to know if there’s anything she can do to help and he says no. She asks if the factory is having problems and he says they’re just starting. He leaves and she guesses that he didn’t get that loan.

Romina has shown up at German’s house. She tries to brush off what happened last night, but he says it changes everything. It wasn’t just a little playing around, it was a night with her. She says nobody plays around with her. He says prove it then, and break off with Emiliano. Te quiero.

In seconds they are on the couch, hot and heavy. But Romina hears Angelica’s voice in her head, warning about STDs and pregnancy. It’s hard to tell if Angelica’s voice or Romina’s hormones will win this one. It’s touch and go.

Romina pushes him away and tells him not without protection!

Arcadia calls Paloma’s house and asks to talk to Carlota. Rufi says she’s out and asks who it is. Arcadia doesn’t want to give her name, but then goes ahead. She hangs up, nervous. Rufi wonders who Arcadia is.

Nature sure does abhor a vacuum! With Carlota gone for the day, the Espinoza de los Monteros’s living room is full of guests. This time it’s Dr Bermudez who has come to see Mac since apparently Rufi has called. Mac says you know diabetes – it has its ups and downs. The doctor observes that emotional upsets can affect blood sugar and that Mac seems stressed.

He is going to give Mac her shot but he shakes the little bottle and says the stuff has the wrong consistency. Weird, says he. It must be a bad dose. He asks for a different little med bottle.

Camila calls the ceramic factory and gets Joel, who is thrilled. She tells him she is worried about Rafa’s situation. Joel tells her he’s been thinking about her (?) and that Rafa didn’t get the loan and the factory will close in a few months. Camila is sorry to hear it. He asks if they can meet – he wants to talk to her about something.

Emiliano, Inaki and Paloma have arrived back in town. Paloma thanks Emiliano again and tells him Romina is so lucky to have a guy like him. She goes into Angelica’s house and the guys head off to see Orlando.

Inside, Paloma says it was all thanks to Emiliano and Angelica, and gives Angelica a big hug. Paloma still thinks it was Carlota but on the other hand Carlota didn’t know she and Inaki were going to get married, and that Inaki was posing in art class. And then there was that thing about the art teacher telling her that Inaki didn’t love her. Angelica is puzzled too. She’s glad they are both so happy, and teases that Emiliano seemed to have a bit of a thing for Paloma. Paloma laughs and says he’s Romina’s boyfriend. Angelica says Romina doesn’t take anything seriously.

Paloma calls Mac to see what’s up. Carlota isn’t home yet. Mac is thrilled that Paloma is so happy.

Carlota comes home with a bag for Paloma, but Rufi tells her that Paloma isn’t there.

Time for an ad break! Whew. Thank goodness. I’m getting to be as scared of Carlota as Paloma and Mac are.

Inaki gets the job with Orlando. Smiles all around. After Inaki leaves, Orlando excitedly asks Emiliano to tell him what happened.

Carlota is pitching a fit. If Paloma isn’t well enough to go to school, she’s not well enough to go anyplace! Mac says she’s with the school counselor.

Apparently Romina has promised to break off with Emiliano in a few days. German admits that he’s going out with Liliana just to get her jealous and he’s glad it works. They kiss, which would be okay, except they are kissing on the sidewalk in broad daylight. Some schoolgirls pass by and are all abuzz. Isn’t that Emiliano’s girlfriend with Liliana’s boyfriend? they titter. One snaps some photos with her cell camera.

Angelica and Paloma arrive and face Carlota’s artic blast. Angelica says she did what she thought was right and she leaves.

Carlota tells Paloma that actions have consequences and that she’s now enrolled in a boarding school. Paloma tearfully protests that she does well at school. Carlota says it’s not her academics, it’s her behavior. Paloma says her conduct is always good. Carlota says at school, but not at home.

Paloma says you can’t do this to me! Carlota says that’s what I think when you defy my rules. In boarding school, you’ll appreciate what you have here. Paloma cries and begs her and promises to follow every rule, but Carlota waves her off coldly, saying it’s a done deal. When Paloma leaves the room, Carlota smiles smugly.

Orlando compliments Emiliano on helping Inaki when he could have used the opportunity to get Paloma for himself. Emiliano says his conscience wouldn’t let him do that.

Aerial shot of Mexico City. Wow, that smog does look bad! L.A. used to look like that when I was a kid.

It looks like Carmen isn’t winging it to Madrid. Instead she’s at her ex’s telling him about what happened with Inaki and how she needed to stop and think. Alonso says he hasn’t changed his mind and he can’t support Inaki. Carmen says you should have seen his face – he was so happy. Alonso says great, you’ve both lost your minds.

Carmen says there’s no point in opposing them and maybe they can have some happiness. Alonso says if you support them, you’re just helping them down the road to ruin. Carmen says at least I support his right to make his own decisions, unlike you.

She wonders if he had anything to do with separating them. He says no, but he wishes he had because he wouldn’t have screwed it up.

Paloma is sobbing to Mac, and Mac says she doesn’t want Paloma taken from her the last two months they get to be together. She’ll try to think of something.

Avances, and plenty of ‘em: Mac seems to have something to hang over Carlota’s head. Carlota says don’t try to threaten me, and Mac says I’ll show you what I’m capable of. Paloma tells Romina that if Mac can’t do anything, she’ll run away from home. Inaki tells Emiliano that he hopes he can marry a girl like Paloma one day. Arcadia tells Carlota that she’s nervous because Inaki wants to find out who switched the notes and she tells a shocked Carlota that Inaki is back because he’s going to marry Paloma as soon as possible. Paloma yells at Carlota that she’s going to marry Inaki and Carlota smacks her. Carlota throws a heavy object and breaks a mirror.

Labels: amor

Ahoy all! I am posting this for Carlos; this is his first recap and it's awesome! Take it away Carlos...

So Nick is off chatting up coeds at OSU and I'm here struggling with a new laptop that doesn't know it's master. Oh yes, this should be fun. To cap things off, Mau has ended up hospitalized in a coma. It can only get better than this if he should wake up with amnesia.

We begin outside the emergency room entrance to the hospital where reporters and a TV crew have gathered seeking an update on Mauricio's condition following his crash at the autodrome. The TV reporter spots Constance accompanied by the Dr. and Ximena. Connie declines to talk and refers all questions to the physician, who describes some minor bodily injuries and serious injury to the brain resulting in the all too common affliction of TN heroes and heroines...coma. Drat, and on my watch. Who could have seen that coming? As the Dr. updates the press, Ximena preens and poses for the camera. The girl can't help it, she answers only to that wee little voice in her head. After the medico's update Connie asks for respect for her situation (it is after all, all about her). Ximena, not to be upstaged, requests a little respect as well. Porfis.

Back at the office, Gabriela is tending to the wounded Salvador after the thrashing he endured at the hands of Oscar and Jeronimo. She cautions him about pursuing Jerry and Oscar, Oscar has nothing to do with his problems. She realizes how nuts he is about her and how jealous he is of Oscar, but there is a limit. Sal says believe what you will but the important thing right now is Mauricio as he sweetly caresses her face. He leaves. Oscar strides out with his self-satisfied lawyer walk. No news about Mau, weak smile and shrug. Jerk!

Tano bumps into Ximy outside of Mau's ICU room (not much like ICUs I've known), She remarks about what bad luck the accident was. Tono corrects her, it was no accident, "ROLADO KLUNDER IS A MURDERER!" Ximy shushes him as Connie walks out of Mau's room. "Can I be of help?"he asks. "Yes, get the heck out and don't bother us!" she more or less retorts. She then instructs Ximy to guard the door and let no one in (except of course the docs) especially youknowwho. Estrella stops short at the corner as she overhears this.

Monita runs into Tano in the parking garage of the hospital. He knows nothing, but gives her his phone# in case something comes up. Rolu enters Mau's office which Jerry occupies once more and is heartily greeted by the grieving primo, who noticing someone at the door actually does feign grief, momentarily. Paula (who has demonstrated killer tendencies before) skillfully and effectively applies a sack over Klunder's head. (She appears to have a penchant for plastic weapons. Previously she used a plastic knife, this time...) The effort is thwarted by the quick thinking and action by Jerry. Heck, maybe next time. Rolu whines that everyone thinks that he caused the accident. Accident, Jerry marvels, but offers offers his help, for a price.

Around the corner from Mau's room Moni and Estrella discuss getting past Ximy who is guarding the door. No problema, the young thespian proves her talent by doing a bang on imitation of Ximy. Excellent. She then engages Ximy in a superfresa conversation using superfresa secret code complete with superfesa secret hand signals. Thus with this distraction, Monita easily slips unnoticed into Mau's room. Perhaps the best scene. "¡Fresas con Chantilla!"?

At the office, Gaby scolds Paula for the impulsive way she treated Rolu while in Mau's office,

Oscar is fretting over his ailing dog, struck by a bicycle in the park, injuring a paw, who must be destroyed, er, ah, sacrificed. Ever helpful, Jerry offers to make it look like an accident. "He's a dog," Oscar reminds him. Paula overhears their conversation and logically concludes that they are discussing what to do about Mau. Oh, no.

Outside Mau's room, Connie reminds Aldo and Luisa that she is in charge and no one but she is permitted to visit Mau's bedside while Moni is pretty much in the bed with Mau pouring out her feelings for him all over his comatose body. She leans in and bestows a chaste kiss on his lifeless lips then... Shazam! Sleeping Beauty that he is, he blinks and smiles, "Hola." It's a miracle! Did anyone see that coming?

Meanwhile, back at the office Jerry is holding a press conference. He is awkwardly careful to present his best profile as he attempts to absolve Rolu from his culpability for the crash before a skeptical reporter. After this little performance, he backs out of the room, carefully keeping his right profile aimed at the cameras.

Still dazed, Mau wonders aloud if he has died and gone to heaven. Nope, but close. There's a tearful angel leaning over him. The door opens as the Dr. and nurse enter with the Connie close behind. Moni backs out of the room unnoticed by Connie. The spell is broken. The angelic little monkey is supplanted by the mopey mummy.

In Mau's office Rolu applauds Jerry's acting and proves his gratitude for Jerry's support with a wad of cash. Jerry fondles and sniffs the money in an unseemly public display of affection.

At home Tano joins Teresa and Ivan for an update. Joined by Luisa and Aldo, Teresa admonishes them to stay out of the dispute between Mau and Rolu.

In Nacoville, Moni and Estrella have returned from their successful mission of mercy and are discussing Moni's relationship with Mau and are interrupted by Beto. Why is Monita crying? Estrella and Moni try to assuage Beto.

Connie is sitting on Mau's bed talking with him. His goofy blissful smile has been replaced by confused consternation. "WTF happened?" He asks in not quite those words. She tries to reassure him as she looks to the Dr. for some reassurance for herself.

"Monita," he mumbles. She is definitely not reassured.

Moni is enjoying a solitary pity-party complete with flashbacks in her apartment when Paula bursts in with the alarming news that Jerry and Oscar are planning to murder Mau like a dog. After initial doubts, Moni and Estrella are convinced and the Tres Amigas spring into action.

While Oscar works his magic spell over Gaby, Nieves tries to console and calm a disturbed and confused Beto. Beto leaves to go to the gym. Nieves suspects that he's going to find solace in a bottle; Oscar is more successful and manages to seal the deal with a kiss. The guy may be a louse but he is a charming louse. Then why do I feel the need to wipe my hands every time he appears on screen?

The girls have now donned nurses' togs that are fetching and convincing. If things don't work out for you there in Mexico, I have jobs for you guys here in Texas. They commandeer a wheelchair and go in to rescue/kidnap Mauricio.

They pause in the effort to admire the view, though no one ever looks his best in a hospital gown. Interrupted briefly by the arrival of Jerry, who is mistaken for Monita by a stuporous Mau, Monita clocks him with a rather anemic right uppercut, anemic but effective. They place Mau in the wheelchair and fill the vacancy in the bed with a now comatose Jerry.

As they wheel him out (not looking too good I might add) they hear Sally approaching with Connie in hot pursuit trying to head him off at the pass. The girls change directions and as they stop short, oops... they spill their cargo out all over the floor. Oh well, drag him into the utility room and load him back up. What's another whack on the head more or less?

Connie races Salvador into the room and warmly embraces the body covered from head to ankles in the bed while exchanging insults with Sal...Yikes! it's Jerry who sees no problem with her misplaced affection.

Mientras Tanto (that's meanwhile, Gringuitos), back in the barrio, Nieves is sweeping the patio as Paula sweeps in and sweeps Nieves off the patio by asking her to run interference for her into her apartment. The girls then wheel in their semiconscious booty as Aldo and Ivan look on.

At the hospital Jerry and the Conster are berating uniformed men over the lax hospital security.

The girls are making Mau comfortable in Moni's bed, not exactly like he had in mind but there he is nonetheless. Paula hustles off to call Tono for backup, as Moni cautions Estrella to behave, as her hands linger a bit too long beneath his thighs. Estrella, you saucy wench!

As Aldo and Ivan confer, Moni consults Nieves for advice. Estrella flirts with Tono.

The prodigal Beto returns. Somewhat tomado (inebriated) he sits on Monita's bed, wherein lies(lays? Judy?) the Hunk all covered up from chin to toes. Beto then proceeds to stroke and express his undying love to Mau's butt.

Gracias a todos, especially Sylvia.

Carlos

VOCABULARY
sopilote: vulture
zanahoria: nitwit (carrot)
tarado: moron, mental defective
chanchullo: shady deal
carburar: to function, think clearly
morena: dark-haired girl
trancazo: a whack

DICHO
buscarse tres pies a gato: look for trouble

Labels: gancho

Hello all, I'm back from Paris but still on Paris time, so it's 4 in the morning and I don't seem to be able to read my own handwriting. Hope y'all can help me out.

Not much seems to have happened in three weeks. Damian is on crutches and whining constantly - he's one of those peevish, bossy invalids, how unappealing. Vlad is blobbing and drooling into his beer over Prisila.

• I see by the knots in Fr/Ed's manly jawbone that he's not happy about having allied himself with Barbara in order to get Liliana back.
  
  
• Daffy Daddy is all ticked off about Cam choosing this moment to announce his engagement to Luffly, considering the kidnapping and all.
  
  Anibal sez Cam is doing this selflessly, for the sake of the family, so as not to lose the Power Meelk money and Franco's help in getting Lili back. Barb sez Cam is a grown up, so let him live his own life, Jeez Daffy.
  
  When Daffy and Anibal leaves Barb hisses at Cam that he's a cretin. This for some reason makes him defiantly determined to go through with the marriage. She doesn't look too happy when he explains that an alliance with Esteve will be good for the Elizalde coffers.
  
  
• Fer explains to the Virgincita what's been going on and that she can't love Fr/Ed because she's a married woman (and Fr/Ed's about to be married). Just as the Virgincita was about to say, "Duh," Barb comes in and says Fr/Ed wants to say bye.
  
  Barb glowers at the Virgincita.
  
  
• Artemio Bravo talks and talks to Lily, I guess because she doesn't talk back (reminds me of that Almodovar movie where the two guys are in love with two women in comas). He says beautiful people are unlucky, and Lili is beautiful, but she's been luckier than his mother was.
  
  He gives her his mother's diary and tells her to read it and she has lots of time for the reading, because she's NEVER GOING TO LEAVE THIS HOUSE AGAIN. Except over his dead body. Lili goes to bed and Cero the Ghost reads the first pages of the diary to her:
  
  Ana Gregoria is collecting eggs [but only some of them, why would she be leaving any eggs in the nesting boxes, that doesn't make any sense at all! --Ed.] when the shadow of Don Jerónimo falls over her. Somehow he knows it's her birthday and has come to give her the diary.
  
  A little girl calls for Ana - the little girl comes tripping into the barn - and sees Massa there with Ana! It's Soledad! She's Ana's little sister!
  
  Ana swears Soledad to secrecy and says she has feelings for the Massa. Soledad promises she will never tell.
  
  Lili falls asleep. Cero disappears.
  
  
• Fr/Ed explains to Fer he has allied with Barb to try and get Lili back. He says he's convinced Barbie had nothing to do with the kidnapping but he senses she does, now, know where Lili is.
  
  Fer is afraid Obregon is going to tattle about her and Fr/Ed having sprung Lili from the looney bin. Remembering Obregon's parting words to Barbie ("Putrify, b-h!") Fr/Ed doesn't think he will.
  
  Fer points out Obregon has done other stuff they didn't think he'd do; she wants to go tell everybody the truth before Obregon can out them. Fr/Ed doesn't agree.
  
  
• Hah! It's Obregon in a silly Charlie Chaplin disguise sitting in a Chinese restaurant with his nurse. He tells her he's gonna make the Hyena pay for what she's done.
  
  
• Here's an aimless scene for you: Santi tells Fer he's going back to the pueblo to look for Aurora. Barb, of course, is skulking in the background and butts in. He asks her again, what did the guy look like who swiped Aurora.
  
  "Oh, uh, about your size, uh, older than you, about 60."
  
  "Oh, it could be her dad!" Barb is impactada at that: "What do you know about her father?"
  
  
• Bouncy grinning Gardenia tells Esteve she's glad ol' Ca-mildew is going to marry a woman of ill repute, won't that take the sucker down a few notches. Esteve thinks, "Yes, that was the plan, certainly - but now I like her and admire her, what an amazing woman!"
  
  
• Esteve, as usual, gets on Fr/Ed about everything. Fr/Ed can't wait till he can tell Fer the whole truth. Esteve sez, you're screwed!
  
  Esteve thinks the alliance with Barb is going to meld with all Fr/Ed's other choices and, even if they make sense on some level, when Fernanda finds out she will hate him... "And I know that living without her love is a torment to you every day, but living with her hate will haunt you until you die."
  
  
• Barb barges into Artemio's house. She says, Daffy is so upset the sleeping potions are not working on him as effectively as usual; the Elizaldes will pay the ransom, that their funds are dimishing rapidly as planned; Lili must go back with her to the hacienda!
  
  Artemio asks why's that so important all of a sudden, Barbie says because Fer and Fr/Ed will do whatever is necessary to get Lili back.
  
  Artemio strikes up the Franco-is-not-his-real-name tune and Barb, dismissively, says actually yes it is, he's a businessman who's in love with Fer's best friend and that's why he's back in the area, he's no threat to us at all.
  
  Artemio is suspicious that she's changed her tune so thoroughly: "Perhaps you have made an alliance with him?" She denies it and says she's going to get Lili now. "NO! She will stay here with me forever!"
  
  Barb asks what she should do, Artemio says she should say she was deceived and that the man who has Lili will never give her back. "They know Obregon, he'd never be able to do this. Why are you doing it?" He thinks it will pull Daffy down right quick.
  
  She, apparently, changes the subject: "Where is my child buried?" He asks, what does that have to do with anything?" I think she says: "Because if he hadn't died, you'd have had some company and wouldn't have to be committing this craziness."
  
  He gets cranky and insists: "I'm not keeping Lili so I'll have some company, I'm doing it to break the heart of the (hmm let's see) the man who was born of the matrimony that broke my mother's heart. And about your son - if he'd lived, he probably would have resembled YOU and not had any gratitude at all. I forbid you to touch the theme again, and Lili too, because she's a dead subject for you and the Elizaldes."
  
  
• Santi goes back and bangs at the door in Purificación just like before (in fact maybe they just ran the same tape again). This time, though, Aurora isn't there. She's on her knees scrubbing the floor in a convent.
  
  
• Vlad, already with a hangdog expression, gets to work and is surprised to see Flor there. He says he's glad to see her again, she says "The Elizaldes are good people - and by the way, Anibal wants to see you in his office."
  
  Briefly, Vlad is fired.
  
  Indignantly he says it doesn't suit him to be fired. Anibal says he could just as easily have Vlad put in jail, but would like to avoid scandal.
  
  Vlad asks, "Does Priscila know?" and AB huffily answers: "I'M THE DECIDER!" Vlad, huffily in turn: "Don't mess with me, you don't know who I am." He goes to his office, the door's locked, he goes to Flor, she says, oh they changed the locks, here's your stuff. He takes the box.

Barb asks Damian if he wants Fer back, or if he wants vengeance. Tomorrow: Fr/Ed almost gets married but is saved by: Barbie!

Labels: manana

Iñaki is in the bar drinking. Paloma is in the park wondering why Iñaki hasn’t met her and comes to the conclusion that it must be over between them.

Iñaki gets a call on his phone, it is from his mother. He doesn’t take, but reaches for the bottle on the table and pours himself another shot. Meanwhile, Carmen is very concerned that her son hasn’t picked up the phone. She asks Arcadia if she knows where Iñaki might be and if something is wrong. Acardia encourages her not to worry.

Emiliano is in the park and spots Pal. He avoids her, but is unable to get away before she spots him. She asks E if he’s seen Iñaki. She tells him that she’s thinking he’s had a change of heart. “About marrying you?” E asks. “He’s told you?” E doubts that Iñaki’s lost interest, he suggests that Pal give Iñaki a call. She doesn’t want to bother him. E decides he’s got to comfort Pal and he tells her how much Iñaki loves her, so she should have every confidence in him. Pal listens to E’s words and they calm her down. She asks E to not mention her upset to Iñaki and E agrees to keep mum. Pal tells E that he’s her guardian angel and kisses him on the cheek before she runs back home.

Macrena comes home and finds Rufi in a state of panic. Rufi tells Mac that Pal slipped out of the house after Carlota left. Rufi’s worried that Cruelota will be back before Pal returns and then the proverbial goose will be cooked. Cruelota arrives home, but she’s not seemingly interested in Pal. She’d rather goad Mac about having coffee with the doctor. Mac realizes that Ines, the gossip, has been talking. Mac assures her sister it was just coffee. Cruelota wants to inflict some harm and since there isn’t another Yorkie in the house, she picks on her sister. She tells Mac that it is embarrassing for her to be traipsing around town like a school girl. Doesn’t she know that she’s too old to be snaring a man, after all take a look in the mirror. Besides, the doctor only went out with her for pity. Mac tells Cruelota that she won’t listen any more. Cruelota says that she doesn’t want to hurt Mac, she just wants to open her eyes. The doctor feels nothing but “ternurita”/ a little tenderness. She wants to make sure that Mac doesn’t have any illusions about the patient/doctor relationship, that way she won’t do anything ridiculous. Cruelota walks away and Rufi (who’s been gesturing behind Cruelota’s back the entire time--as if to tell Mac to pay no attention to Cruelota's words) tells Mac to not listen to a word she said. “What nerve!” (Que coraje!).

Romina spots Iñaki drinking in the bar and decides to pounce. Iñaki tells her he wants to be left alone, but she doesn’t listen. She wants to know what’s going on.

Cruelota slips a letter in between the door and the jamb. Rufi finds it and heads outside to see if she can spot who left it (I might add that the letter was obviously on the inside of the house, so why she's outside looking down the street is anyone's guess). She spots no one and worries that Pal hasn’t returned.

Iñaki tells Ro that Pal is killing him, she’s rejected him through a letter. Ro says she knows nothing, she thought Pal still loved him. Iñaki thought the same. Ro tells him that Pal is strange and seems to like to be in control. Iñaki takes offense at her words. Ro tells him that Pal isn’t worth it. Iñaki says he loves her, she’s the only one for him. Ro reminds him that there are other fish in the sea. Iñaki says he’s only interested in Pal. Ro suggests the best way to get revenge is to get even, Pal’s rejected him, he should do the same. Iñaki isn’t interested. Ro kisses Iñaki.

Pal sneaks back into the house. She runs into Rufi and asks if Iñaki’s called. Nope, but there was this letter. Pal reads the “Querida Juanita” letter that Cruelota planted. In it, “Iñaki” tells her that he still loves her, but it was craziness for them to rush things. He cannot marry her and knows that it is best for both of them. Pal breaks down and cries. The Purple Beast watches from around the corner. Pal runs off to her room.

Iñaki breaks away from Ro and tells her she’s crazy. There is no way he’d be interested in another woman, least of all her! He lights into Ro: she’s Emiliano’s girlfriend and supposedly Paloma’s best friend. Ro tells him that it was him who kissed her. Iñaki says I may be drinking, but I’m not that drunk (okay, he didn’t say that, but he should have said it). Basically, he drunkenly yells at her some more and Romina stomps off in a huff after being rejected. Iñaki reaches for another drink, most likely to rinse his mouth out.

Paloma is up in her room, playing black and white flashbacks in her head. “No puede ser!” She doesn’t understand why Iñaki is doing this to her.

Cruelota is in the aviary, and has quite a grasp on a poor helpless bird. She has a cruel smile on her face and she says “Paloma will always live in this house, always.” I worry about the fate of this bird.

Rufi shows Mac the letter and Mac is baffled by it. She takes off to comfort Pal and Rufi offers up a prayer for Mary to intercede on Paloma’s behalf.

Pal cries to Mac. Mac offers some words of comfort, she wants to help alleviate some of Pal’s hurt and tries to offer up a “maybe it’s for the best”. Pal isn’t buying it and she cries some more. Cruelota enters the room and demands to know what’s happening?

Iñaki drinks some more and tells himself that he can’t let her go, he loves her too much.

Pal tells Cruelota she’s got a stomach ache and Cruelota isn’t believing it. She takes issue with Paloma’s tone and demands to know where Pal went that afternoon, she knows she snuck out of the house. Mac says now is not the time, but Cruelota won’t relent. Pal left without permission and there will be consequences. Pal bitterly tells her it won’t happen again. Cruelota tells Pal she hopes she gets better and leaves. Pal sobs to Mac about how she’s hurting so much. The Purple Beast is listening outside the door and smiles.

Emiliano enters the same bar as Iñaki (sounds like the start of a joke, but it isn’t). They each are so intent on drowning their sorrows in drink, they don’t see each other. Each is thinking of Paloma. E knows that Pal has become an obsession for him. Iñaki realizes he’ll never be able to forget her.

Romina fills her mother in on the latest with Pal and Iñaki. Ro thinks Pal is being stupid. Camila doesn’t like Ro referring to her best friend that way. Ro continues to dis her friend and isn’t too pleased that her mother is defending her. Ro stomps off upstairs, ending the conversation and taking her dinner with her.

Iñaki is still drinking and in walks Germán. He tries to encourage Iñaki to stop and wants to know what’s up. Iñaki cries on his shoulder and Germie suggests they talk to Ro to find out what’s up with Pal. They are, after all, best friends. Iñaki comments that Ro isn’t much of a friend to Pal. Germie is upset to hear this and questions why Iñaki would say such a thing. Iñaki tells him that Ro betrayed E and kissed him. Germie is more upset. Iñaki tells Germie that Ro is no good for him and besides she’s a slut. Germie wants to punch something or more likely someone, but leaves with only shoving Iñaki instead.

At the dinner table, Cruelota compares how Paloma is reacting to how Mac behaved when she cried for “him”. She tells Mac that she doesn’t want the same thing to happen to Pal that happened to Mac. Mac defends her love, it was pure and healthy. She knows that if “he” didn’t die, they’d be together and be happy. Cruelota doubts this, she thinks they’d be tormented and apart. That aside, she refuses to let Paloma end up with a similar kind of fate, all because of a don nadie.

Emiliano is home in bed, thinking of Paloma. He realizes he’s got to pull her out of his heart (arrancarse del alma).

Carmen drags Iñaki out of the bar.

Germie calls Ro. He’s outside her house and demands to see her. She sneaks him in, but warns him to be quiet as to not wake her mother. He lights into her in a whisper shout. He wants to know what happened with Iñaki. She claims she doesn’t owe him any explanation. They argue. She says that Iñaki was drunk. He brings up E. She says that their families are involved and it isn’t easy to end it. She tells Germie that she misses his (Germie’s) kisses and his desire. He doesn’t want to go down that road, but she kisses him and leads him up the stairs. This apparently has changed Germie's feelings on the subject. Once in her room, she locks the door and tells him that she’s never been with anyone before. He’s moved by her words. He lifts her up and carries her to the bed. She turns off the light and he removes his shirt. She's putting her own spin on the old "If you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with." I think Steven Stills would have to come up with some new lyrics just for this girl.

In other part of town, Emiliano turns on the light and reaches for the phone. He calls Romina and gets her voicemail. He leaves her a message, hoping she’s sleeping well (if only he knew). He then thinks of Paloma.

The next day, Paloma is still in bed and Cruelota tries to get her up to go to school. She will not tolerate her moping at home and missing class. Pal says she’s not feeling well and won’t go. Cruelota threatens there will be consequences and she’s off to write some letters---perhaps to those boarding schoools, idle threats they seem to those of us in viewerville because earlier in this episode we heard Cruelota say that Pal will never live outside the house, or some such similar threat. Mac enters Pal's room and offers the exact opposite approach to Pal's situation.

Carmen finds out that Iñaki has already left the house early that morning.

He’s headed to the school to talk to Paloma. He waits outside and Romina avoids him when she arrives at the last minute. School’s about to begin and no Paloma. Iñaki approaches Angelica and fills her in on his “Querido Juan” letter. He wants to talk to Pal face to face. He asks for Angelica’s help. He noticed that Pal wasn’t at school today, so he asks if Angie will call the house for him. She agrees, but upon getting an answer, finds out that Paloma is refusing all calls.

Emiliano talks to Orlando about Iñaki. Lando is interested in hiring Iñaki, but worries about E since he knows that E’s got some unresolved feelings toward Pal. E won’t let that get in the way, he only wants Pal to be happy and her being with Iñaki will give her that. E gives his friend a call and finds out from Iñaki that Pal’s rejected him via a letter. He’s tried to talk to her and she’s not willing to talk. E is confused. Iñaki says he won’t be taking the job because he’s leaving town, he needs to put some distance between him and Paloma. Iñaki thanks E for everything and tells him that if he’s ever in Madrid to look him up.

Iñaki packs his bags and rips up a photo of Paloma.

Emiliano talks to Lando and rehashes his conversation with Iñaki. Emiliano tells Lando he’s baffled because after his conversation with Paloma in the park….he wasn’t expecting her to dump Iñaki. Lando comments that it is strange and perhaps E can use the information he has to help the lovebirds clear things up.

Carmen arranges the tickets for her and Iñaki to fly to Madrid. She makes a call to Alfonso to tell him the latest. He’s not home, so she leaves a message with Natalia. Natalia wonders if the father and son will make up. Carmen hopes so. Natalia asks for Paloma’s phone number. Carmen thinks it is because Nat wants to meddle, and she tells her she doesn’t have it and they should butt out. She asks Nat to give Alfie the message and she hangs up. Nat is frustrated because she’d like to get in touch with her best friend’s daughter after all these years.

Angelica approaches Ro at school. She needs to talk to Ro’s mother. Ro reluctantly agrees to let her mother know. Ro asks Angie a question about a “friend”. This friend had unprotected sex. Angie provides a PSA about the dangers of not using protection: unwanted pregnancy, STDS, and HIV/AIDS. She scolds about Ro’s “friend” being irresponsible, and she would urge Ro to urge her "friend" to go see a doctor ASAP and from this point forward, always use protection (se cuide siempre). END OF EPISODE.

Labels: amor

Capítulo 118

Labels: manana

In our cute little show, we’ve had lots of clever scenes, near misses, humorous coincidences, but not too much real drama. Tonight, that all changes.

We begin with a bang, as Connie SLAPS Monita, calling her slumgirl (arrabalera). Moni slams her back against the wall, holding her throat, letting her know who’s boss, and when Connie yells for Security, Moni mimics her dismissively.

At the racetrack, Tano, Ivan and Aldo congratulate Mau for a good qualifying run. Rolu, however, wants to get his digs in, says too bad Rolu qualified first, Mau will have to come from behind. Mau says don’t count your chickens yet.

Back in the office, Gabi bursts into the coffee room to witness Moni’s hand on Connie’s throat. Gabi yells at Moni, Moni says she was provoked, Gabi tells Paula to get a glass of water to calm things down, and Paula promptly soaks Connie with the water, giggling at her “mistake”, as Gabi ushers Connie out of harm’s way.

Well, Salvador was also at the track. He tells Tano to keeps his eyes open for trouble. Mau sees him, and Sal admits he still can’t prove his innocence, but asks permission to investigate to see who was really behind the transfer to the Cayman Islands. Mau gives him total support, saying Sal is the best friend he has, and the guys hug.

It’s dinner time at the Sermeño house. Luisa and Dani are quiet. Why? They wanted to go to the track. Mau says no one could watch them, it’s better for them to stay here. Right, and just play with dolls? asks Luisa sarcastically. Yes, let’s play with dolls, says cute little Dani, prompting Luisa to tell her to shut up. Mau takes Dani on his knee, asks her to tell Luisa that while he’s racing, he’ll be thinking of them, which Dani translates as Mau says give him a hug and kiss so he won’t lose the race. Luisa smiles and she and Dani both hug their adopted Daddy.

Paula is startled by Beto, and complains that he keeps showing up everywhere, the only place he hasn’t surprised her is in her bed, to which he replies that he’d like that, but then remembers he has to be faithful to Moni. He asks about the spat between Moni and someone at the office, and Pau confirms that it was Connie, but she doesn’t know the details. Beto thinks Moni might have seen him with Connie, and that’s why she’s mad at him. At this point, Nieves shows up with a ridiculous pulled-back hairstyle, and the reason for this becomes clear – she’s holding a live monkey (they like to grab hair). Beto asks where Moni is, Nieves doesn’t know, she’s not Beto’s secretary. Beto thinks she should be, they’d get more money, but Nieves adds that he’d probably just buy more beer.

Hunk alert for the ladies! Mauricio is dressed in just a towel, his tanned upper body fully displayed. He worries to himself about the race, when there’s a knock. It’s Moni, she smiles, and Mau’s towel flutters to the floor. Moni gets an eyeful, quickly covers her eyes, as Mau takes just a few seconds too long to realize he’s over-exposed.

Oscar and Jerry have a cozy little talk in which Oscar says they can’t trust anyone, not even each other. Jerry seems a little out of his league here, and when Oscar says they’ll be friends para siempre, his tone is just a bit chilling, and Jerry swallows hard.

Moni tells Mau she came to wish him luck for the race. She removes her gold necklace, and gives it to him. It’s a medallion which will bring him luck, and it’s the only thing she has left from her mother (it seems that her mother isn’t dead, just left with some so-and-so). Mau can’t accept the medallion, but Moni says just use it for luck in the race, and then return it. She then gives him a light kiss on the cheek, and leaves him completely blown away.

At the prison, someone’s going over the wall. Actually, it’s the office, and after Oscar makes another snarling date with Gabi, Sal sneaks in, and instead of walking around the little divider, climbs over it like a con on the lam. He surprises Gabi from behind, putting his hands over her mouth, telling her not to scream. He asks if she still believes in him, and she does. He wants, he wants…..a kiss? she asks. No, he wants access to Jerry’s computer. No way, says Ms. Rulebook. But she’s about to soften when Jerry’s voice is heard, and Sal escapes back over the wall/office divider. Jerry starts to scold Gabi, but she pays him no mind at all, and leaves for a date she has with Oscar.

Ximena is trying to cheer up Consti, telling her to do what SHE does, just blot out the past, and make a fresh start (borrón y cuenta nueva). Connie’s still upset about that cheap little monkey who robbed her guy, but since the world doesn’t know, she’ll go to the track tomorrow to watch the race and cheer for Mau. Her cell rings, and it’s Beto, calling from the community payphone. She urges him to stop harassing her (acosando). He denies he was, tells her to stop messing with his girlfriend, and hangs up. Moni walks up just then, he asks where were you, and she asks with whom was he talking? (think either one will tell the truth?) .

Connie can’t believe Beto hung up on her, calls him a mutant freak (engendro mutante). Ximmy comforts her, and they decide some ice cream would cheer them up.

Beto thinks Moni was jealous, as if he had a new girlfriend. You have a new girlfriend? No, no, he swears he doesn’t. And what were YOU doing, Moni? I went jogging, are you satisfied? Uh, in high heels? And how come there’s no smell of sweat? I used extra deodorant, okay? Beto then insults her again, she’s tired of this, and walks away.

Mauricio can’t sleep, and Aldo meets him outside to give him some words of encouragement.

Moni’s in her robe now, she can’t sleep either, she walks over to Estrella’s place, knocks, but Estrella wants to sleep. However, when Moni hints she’ll tell what happened with Prince Charming, well, that changes everything, and Estrella invites Moni into her apartment, decorated in pink and orange with streams of flower-shaped mobiles hanging all over the place. She also has pillows with star patterns on them, and the whole place is very arty and unique, just like Estrella. Moni tells her about Mauricio’s wardrobe malfunction with the towel, and the girls squeal with delight. Estrella wants to know what Moni saw, but she says her eyes were covered. She did give him a little kiss on the cheek for luck, and a good luck medallion. She knows what it’s like to play for one’s life, in the ring, or on the track. So are you going to the track? No, I just can’t, replies Monita, with a look of concern on her face. Ahhh, you really love him, don’t you? So, so much - she’s afraid of how much she does, and where it’s going to lead.

And now for a public service announcement. This one was unbelievable. Nieves is doing the outdoor wash with her friend Doña Chenita. Paula comes up, and they ask how her Dad is, what with his stomach problem. He’s much better, and guess what? Before when he got sick, they had to borrow to pay. But now they have “seguro popular” (this is a program of health insurance in Mexico, introduced in 2001 to help the poor pay for medical bills). Doña Chenita’s daughter has diabetes, and before, she got no treatment. Now, with seguro popular, there’s no wait to see a doctor. And they treat hypertension, too, like what you have, Nieves, she adds. Well, I’ll sign up right away for seguro popular, responds Nieves, so Moni won’t have to pay so much for my medical needs. Paula gets in the act, too. Her cousin is pregnant, and thanks to seguro popular, she’ll be covered even after the baby is born, and she can be assured of the child’s health for several years after she’s born. And that’s our scene. Okay…..

It’s morning at the office. Paula has brought coffee and cookies to Gabi in the conference room, and Gabi thanks her, but actually, Paula wants to watch the race on tv along with Gabi. Enter our suit-clad malevolents, Jerry and Oscar, who unceremoniously boot out the ladies with insults against the “labor class”, demanding they be brought some cappuccinos, only to sit their sanctimonious selves down in the very same chairs and laughingly watch what they hope will be Mauricio’s defeat.

So Gabi goes back to her workstation, telling Paula it’s just the law of the jungle, and Paula goes off to find some other way to see the race. As soon as Pau leaves, a panther stealthily creeps up on her from behind. It’s Sal again, still wanting to use Jerry’s computer, and this time it might work. Sal can check the computer while Gabi keeps watch. She says okay, I’ll watch your back (yo le cuido las espaldas), then remarks how strange it is that they say “las espaldas” (literally, your backs), when we only have one (good spanish lesson for us learners).

In the coffee room, Paula has found a boombox, and Moni’s there, but can’t bear to listen, so Pau will use headphones (audífonos). Beto enters in his chauffeur suit, what’s she doing? Pau says it’s the race, but Moni says she’s not listening, car races are boring, just going around 100 times ‘til someone wins. Yeah, adds, Beto, and the most fun is when they mess up like dog poop against the wall (cuando se embarran como pópo de perro contra la pared), which Moni doesn’t find amusing at all. She tells him to pray that doesn’t happen, because if Mau crashes, Pau, Beto and she will be jobless. Paula shushes them so she can hear the radio account of the race.

Oscar approaches Gabi, inquiring about the cappuccinos, remarks that Gabi seems nervous, and she says it’s the race. He likes sensitive women, and don’t forget tonight’s dinner date. Again? she parries playfully, you’re going to fatten me up like a Christmas turkey. That’s the idea, he oozes. And then I’ll sink my teeth into you (clavarte los dientes). What a charmer.

It’s a sunny day at the track, and Connie finds Mau, wishes him luck. So far, so good, but she pushes a little too much, saying she can’t take it any more, needs him back. He doesn’t want to talk about this, he has to focus on the race. She won’t let it drop, says I lost you, right? But do I have some hope? He has to leave, and this didn’t seem too great for his state of mind.

In Jerry’s office, Sal is on the computer, furiously taking notes, when Gabi enters to check his progress. He hasn’t found anything yet about the transfer to the Cayman Islands, and Gabi thinks Jerry’s computer won’t show anything, since Jerry never works. Sal agrees, but figures Jerry’s so inept, he probably left a trail anyway. Gabi’s nervous, wants to talk about their relationship, since they’re together right now. Sal keeps trying to use the computer as Gabi keeps trying to talk about when they kissed. He finally snaps at her, just go keep watch, and she pouts in front of the blinds.

It’s race time, and to the accompaniment of 80’s type music (like the Rocky theme, maybe Days of Thunder, Miami Vice or “The Final Countdown” by Europe, all high hats and synthesizers), we have a montage of the drivers putting on their flame-retardant cowls, then helmets, getting into the car feet first through the window, and it’s the green flag, the race is on!

In the coffee room, Paula is glued to the earpiece, Moni’s pacing, pretending not to want to know what’s going on, and Beto’s calmly eating cookies. Moni gets disgusted with Beto, and kicks him out of the room.

The race music builds up the tension, and we see the cars zooming around the track. It’s revealing that all the cars have tons of ads on them, such as Nextel (and Advil) for Mau’s car, except Rolando’s black car, ad-free, since the producers know that product placement on the villain’s car could have a negative impact. We see pitstops, lots of random cars screaming down the track, but we have no clue what’s happening in the race at this point.

Gabi just couldn’t restrain herself, and is bugging Sal again. He accuses her of working with the enemy, namely Oscar, doesn’t she realize Jerry and Oscar planned the whole thing? You’re just jealous, she retorts, which he denies. The phone rings, and she doesn’t hear it for a few rings, until Sal begs her to answer, but when she opens the door, busted! Jerry and Oscar are right there. Jerry is outraged Sal’s on his computer, and Oscar jokes he’s probably stealing some more money. You worms! is Sal’s reply, and when Gabi comes back in, Oscar says call the Feds. Sal then punches Jerry, but Oscar grabs Sal from behind. Meek Jerry clutches some folders as a shield, and tentatively threatens Sal with a comb, as Gabi screams “let him go”!

Paula excitedly tells Moni that Mau is going to pass (rebasar) his rival. Moni smiles. But NO! The car spins out, there’s a cloud of smoke, Paula’s coffee cup falls and shatters, Moni frantically asks what happened, and Paula says he killed himself! We see flames, a burnt-out car on the side of the track, and Mauricio, eyes closed, not moving, as the music plays a song “I’m tired of running”.

Moni implores Pau, tell me it’s not so! Pau, listening through the headphones, says wait, an ambulance is coming, quiet so I can hear. Is he alive? Is he alive? ……… He’s alive!! We see an ambulance, speeding to the hospital. We then see Aldo, Ivan and Tano in the parking lot. Aldo is mad Connie wouldn’t let him go in the ambulance, but Tano says calm down, Ivan will drive you home, I’ll go to the hospital and let you know what’s happening. Enter Rolu, how’s Mauricio? This causes Tano to scream it was your fault, Rolu punches Aldo, Tano and Ivan struggle with Rolu.

And in the office, Jerry is now holding Salvador, while Oscar pummels him without mercy, to Gabi’s horror. Paula tearfully bursts in, listen to me, everyone, there’s been a terrible accident! Mr. Sermeño’s car overturned, we don’t know what happened. Sal says I knew it! Paula says don’t worry, she’s going to pray. Jerry utters a very fake cry of anguish, saying Goodbye cousin, holding his hands over his eyes (to hide the laughing). Oscar tells Sal “Saved by the bell, huh? Get out before I call the cops”, and they all leave the office. This leaves Jerry and Sal to gloat at their good fortune, now they can really seize power (apoderarse), and they’re so happy they almost kiss.

Moni, distraught, wants to go to the hospital. Beto enters, thought the crash was impressive, he’s not upset at all. After Moni leaves, Beto asks Paula where she went, and Pau’s not saying, just remarks that Beto has sweetbrains in place of a heart (mollejas), which just reminds Beto that he’s hungry again. Mmmmm, good. Beto figures his boss is probably going to die, so he’s jobless again, might as well go home and chill, no prob.

Aldo, Ivan and Luisa are concerned, but they’ve decided it’s best not to tell Dani, who’ll go to her friend’s house to play and watch TV. Dani, all set with her pink backpack, at first doesn’t want to go, but when they remind her that her friend “la Chivis” has a doggie, she cheers up about it.

Paula is upset that the radio just has music now, when she wants to hear the news. Gabi comes in, a little miffed that Pau’s not working, but they both agree that Mauricio is the best boss in the world. After Paula assures Gabi that she’s not a gossip, Gabi reveals that when she first started working here, she was totally in love with Mauricio. But it was one-sided, and she was heavy at the time, weighed over 80 kilos, and she wanted so much to lose the weight, but she realized her obsession with Mau was foolish. You know what? says Paula. Same thing happened to me. You weighed 80 kilos? No, but the first time I saw him, I fell in love with him. Gabi points out that Mauricio is unattainable for them. Oh, and those eyes, say Pau. Gabi reveals she has a poster of Mau from his earlier racing days, and so does Pau, but a small version of it. They both have their posters hidden in their houses. And they keep gushing, Gabi about his chest, Paula about his butt, the girls are getting breathy, praising their sculptured hero, their eyes closed, musing dreamily. Gabi finally realizes this may not be appropriate, and returns to her desk, as Paula asks if maybe she could bring that poster in to work.

Beto’s back in the vecindad, back in his casual clothes, happy as a clam that he’s out of a job again. Estrella wonders why he’s not at work, so he gives her the news that his boss got smushed, he’s a goner, no biggie, which exasperates Estrella, who rushes off to see what she can do.

A TV news reporter is outside the hospital, giving a live report about the accident, but they don’t know Mauricio’s condition. But here comes his fiancé, the designer Constanza Lerdo de Tejada, maybe she can tell us something. He approaches, mike in hand, but Connie is standing with the attending physician, and he’ll explain. The doctor relates that Mauricio suffered mild lesions, but had a severe blow to the cranium, and is in a coma! The camera focuses on Mau in bed, eyes closed, tube in his nose, still looking pretty good. It zooms in closer, closer, closer, as we hear the beep, beep, beep of the heart monitor. What lies ahead for our handsome highness of hunkosity? Tune in Monday for the answer.

And in the previews, Monday looks AMAZING, with Moni crying for Mauricio not to leave her, Paula telling Moni and Estrella that Jerry wants Mau dead for the insurance, they’ve got to save Mau, the girls dress up as nurses, Moni punches Jerry, and Estrella says she’ll write on his (Jerry’s) chart, instructions for them to do an operation on Jerry, the same one that was done on her uncle. Ay caray!

Vocabulario:

Arrabalera - girl from the poor area of the City
Borrón y cuenta nueva – start fresh. A borrón is an inkblot.
Acosando – harrassing, pestering or following relentlessly. We just had this word on MEPS yesterday, maybe I’ll remember it now. I think it’s the same root as to accost.
Yo le cuido las espaldas – I’ll watch your back
Audífonos – headphones
Cuando se embarran como pópo de perro contra la pared – when they mess up like dog poop against the wall. Embarrar means to get covered in mud, or to mess up
Clavarte los dientes – to sink my teeth into you
Rebasar – to pass, to overtake
Apoderarse – seize power
Mollejas – sweetbrains, gizzards

Labels: gancho