Caray, Caray!

Some winner lines in this one, but man I wish there were fewer so it wouldn't take so long! :)


We open with the chicas fighting over their meat. Mona says Coni offered money and Coni claiming Mona asked for it. Mona leaves in a huff figuring it ain’t worth her sweet sweat. Coni tells Mau she’ll stay, he says no thanks I’d rather be alone. Ouch.

Beto is whining over Fausto the big brute to his Mami. Mona comes in and he begs her to save him because he wants to see Vegas one day.

At the neighborhood, Pau asks Estre to borrow shoes and gets an earful about the horrible state of Estre’s world and how she ain‘t lending nothing to noone anymore. She was casting all day and got nothing but “propositions.” Pau tells her she should dress more professionally. Estre gets offended and screams to the whole building, tomorrow she’ll come out all covered up, her body is not a piano. As she walks away Pau jokes, it’s a piano alright but a grand one. (piano de cola). There’s more to this joke but I’m not getting it right now, maybe it’s because she's so dramatic like the presence a grand piano grabs.

Mona is telling Beto that no wonder Fausto wants to smash him if he runs around telling folks Fausto is gay. Ma is like no way is tat true. Beto says they said it about his fight name and that he was in the US so of course I thought it was him. They beg Mona to do something and she agrees but swears this will be the last time she sticks up for Beto. She calls and asks for his room.

Mau shows up at work and immediately gets an apologetic call from Coni. He tells her she should be apologizing to Mona not him. He cuts her off short. Xime is with her in a super cute outfit telling her he wouldn’t hang up on her if she listened to Xime, if Xime tells her to tighten the screw then she should tighten the screw! This pisses Coni off more, of course.

At the office Moan begs Pau to cover for her she has to meet Fausto. Pau says she will but worries about that one who likes her so much (Gabi).

Ma chats with Oscar about trying to hurry the adoption. The important thing here is that Oz tells him he’d be better off if he married. He thinks that’s not so easy, but Oz assures him he’s a young good catch he shouldn’t have trouble, and right on cue Moni shows up with the capuccino. Mau follows her out and wants her to come to a meeting with him, they have pending things anyway. She can’t come because she has to take to the doctor her uncle with hemorrhoids because her aunt with menopause (menospausa pronounced wrong - meaning less pausing) can’t handle him. He stomps off and she who never lies yells at herself for lying more everyday.

Aldo is telling Estre she was right and that girls like to be the center of attention and that’s what happened with Kati; he didn’t call her for a week and she came looking for him and she thinks then of course she kissed you. He said yeah like this the girl’s a vacuum!

Estre loses her cool and all of a sudden is super busy and has to get on her way etc. Aldo just smiles, she’s mad and jealous.

Next we go to the Hotel Emporio Reforma ( I thought I recognized this place) where Mona meets up with Fausto. They chat about old times, and basically that he fights Beto all the time because of her, and she said yes to Beto but not to him, but he wants her to come to Vegas to live with him and that will make him give up fighting Beto. Guess who shows up in the meantime to meet some “northerners’ about business. Mau and Sal, and Mau spies Mona and forgets all about his northerners and wants to know what the hell she’s doing here with a guy. Sal calms him down, but he wants him to find out everything he can about this guy. Sal surmises she’s the one Mau wants to marry but of course he says not with her nor anyone, but man he wants to punch out this guy something fierce. Mona leaves saying there’s no way she’s going to Vegas. He tells her to think about it though, or he’ll see her in the ring.

At the house Monstranza thinks the whole world is out to hide him from her but really no one knows where Mau is. She tears Tere a new one thinking she is lying. Then the kids come out and she wants to sweet talk Dani and pulls her over to tell her where he is, but she can’t do that for more than two secs when Dani very innocently thins he’s at the office. Poor Dani. Lu tells the monster to back off and Monster leaves.
Aldo has been pounding on Estre’s door forever but she didn’t want to open. He swears she’s jealous, she says of that colorless , odorless (note this can also be a toliet), tasteless girl, - no way she says. She swears it has to do with work and no one calling her or taking her seriously. Aldo says he takes her seriously and is her number one fan. She calms down and realizes he is. She gets a call and asks her fake secretary if she has a free slot. Of course she does and lands an audition. She thanks Aldo that he brought her luck and they get this close. She tells him she cares about him and they get close enough to kiss, but at the last minute she stops herself and hugs him instead. Oh I wanted them to kiss. Is that wrong? :0)

Mona and Pau chat about the whole Vegas offer. Mona thinks maybe she should go to get rid of all her problems. She tells Pau she will. In classic novela mode, Mau is listening in at the puerta. He doesn’t like the sound of this.

Of course when we come back from commercial we learn Mona was just kidding there’s no way she’d run off with him. Naturally Mau has run off in his stupor of anger and didn’t hear this part.


When we come back, Sal got the info Mau was looking for and Pau gets mad at Mona for saying one thing and doing another. Turns out Fausto Goodface lives in Vegas has a chain of Mexican restaurants called the Monkey, and he’s a champion lucha libre fighter who goes by the name Mister Tornado. Gabi comes in and he asks her to bring Mona but she notes that it’s one minute after 7pm so she’s gone. Mau leaves. Gabi thinks he’s a good example of a man who goes after what he wants as opposed to one who wastes his who life on a woman who is deranged and who you don’t love anymore. Sal stares blankly as she walks out. Yeah she’s got some cajones alright.

Beto approaches the girls in the barrio and wants to know if Mona talked with Fausto. She tells him the story and he gets all excited that she was asked to go to Vegas and is surprised she gave that up for him. I guess she gets mad because she wouldn’t give in just to save him and he only sees her as an object that he plays rock paper scissors for - he says no but he did win her that way. She walks off hoping that he gets every bone in his body broken.


Crazy Coni shows up at work demanding to see Mau and making a huge psycho bitch scene that would even shame Gabi.


Mau shows back up at the hotel to meet Fausto, who actually knows Mau is a famous race car driver. He wants to talk about Mona, but Fausto wants to talks about himself and makes Mau sit to hear his tale.

Ma encourages Beto to buck and fight don’t be a coward. She says folks have had enough of his stupidity. She's had it up to here!

He takes offense and says he’s going to the hotel to prove he’s not a coward. Ma feels maybe she did the wrong thing.

Oz and Jero chastize Coni for wandering around whining all the time. They tell her Mau will marry, not with her, but she freaks out wondering why not her. They tell her generally man aren’t going to marry psycopaths like you, so you need to clean up your act.

Fausto continues chewing off Mau’s ear, nose head and half his torso. Poor Mau he wants out soooo bad, but he can’t get a word in edgewise with this guy who goes on about his encounter with the great fighter in Wichita who wanted to break his “ass” in English and yes this was censored. I think it’s hysterical the people outside in the window who are clearly just watching the filming going on…


Nieves prays to Lupita and regrets yelling at her boy. Oh get over it already. She tells Mona Beto does all this for her, and begs her to go after him. She says she will, but only for her.

Beto goes to the Emporio in search of Fausto Goodface. This results in a keystone cops episode when he again imposes his naco self on the doorman, telling him to go look for Fausto. The doorman says not his job, and since Beto won’t let it go, security is called.

Of course Beto escapes them and runs into Mau, his patron, Mau thinks maybe not since he hasn’t seen him around the office lately. Of course then Mona shows up and they go in circles about this whole thing and she wonders why Mau is there until Fau comes back and sees him and a brawl breaks out.

The evil twins begin to program their fembot and Coni steps right in line with the plan to marry Mau.

The police leave Beto alone finally, after Moni's information that he's not a thief, he's a fool, and Mau finally tells Mona he’s there to keep her from going away. She is very important to him. She’s worried about her brother being around to hear this and keeps telling him not to interfere in her life. He ends up taking her advice and walks out mad. She takes Beto angrily away.

Aldo invites Estre to the movies, she fights but then gives in and doesn’t want to go too late and thinks they should meet there so people don’t talk. Oh dear.

Estrella actually comes out looking really cute and more proper and she is all happy. Pau wonders why and doesn’t buy that it’s because she got work.

Beto and Mona come back. Ma thanks Mona, but Beto says for what, he came back for his outfit.

Mona tells them about Mau being Beto’s idol. They tell her not to worry that he still thinks Beto is her brother.

Mau gets all off his chest to Sal. He remind him if someone lies they can’t be trusted.

Coni shows up all sudden and asks to speak with him alone. She’s not going to bug him anymore, tomorrow she’s going away somewhere to forget him.

Labels: gancho

EPISODE #121:
* Vladimir cries and throws Damian's crutch into the kitchenette. Damian is frustrated and fed up and yells at Vladimir to give him back the crutch. As Damian stands up with the crutches, Vladimir pushes him and he yells in pain because of his wound. Vladimir wonders what Damian is going to do - Damian says that he will find out what Fey knows about Priscilla and Vladimir's affair, at the risk of his own marriage.

* Franco asks Barbie where Lili is? Barbie wants to know Franco's motives in the search for Lili. They debate making a deal. She balks and hesitates to answer Franco's question. Franco continues to dig and try to find out why Barbie won't tell him. She only proclaims that Lili is safe and sound where she is, and that no one in the Elizalde family or Franco will ever see Lili again. Franco is frustrated and continues to ask about Lili. Barbie finally says the information he wants is classified confidential by someone else in authority. Franco loses patience and starts to choke Barbie to force her to give up the mystery person's name.

* Nun tells Mother Superior that Santi is outside the convent door. Mother Superior informs her that Aurora doesn't want to see him.

* Barbie breaks free from Franco's stranglehold. Franco wants to know the person's name and why he's banned from seeing Lili. Barbie gasps for air and spouts that the person is infinitely powerful and won't permit it. Franco grumbles his continuing frustration and hostility. Barbie says that they really need to be allies now, in order not to lose Lili forever.

* Santi meets with Mother Superior in her office. He asks if Aurora has been to the convent. Mother S thinks about the question.

* Nun visits Aurora in the chapel praying. Aurora asks if the Pastor has arrived.

* Franco grumbles in his thought bubble about his pact with the Hyena, the very devil that made his and his mother's lives heck for many years. Barbie looks at Franco and thought bubbles her own devilish plan to help her own cause (vengeance against Don Artemio for taking her child from her). Barbie hands Franco a glass of water and sits down at her desk. She explains to him how much she despises, hates this mystery person and wants to destroy him. Barbie explains why she needs Franco as an ally in her scheme, then she makes her condition - that Franco has to give up Fey completely.

* Santi finishes with Mother S and starts to leave the office. He turns at the door and tells Mother S to tell Aurora that he was there. Mother S asks him what actually happened? Santi is upset and says that he's looked everywhere for Aurora since she left his family's home. He says that a man took her from the house. Mother S. is impactado (stunned).

* Nun is with Aurora in the chapel. Aurora feels nauseous and faints. Nun panics.

* Santi explains to Mother S that all he knows is that an older man took her from the house. That's all he knows. He's desperate to find Aurora. Mother S apologizes. Santi leaves.

* Franco is curious about Barbie's motives and interests in protecting Fey and Damian's marriage. Barbie explains about her secret plans with destroying the mystery man and their secret pact. Franco is inquisitive about her reasoning. Barbie continues to explain, this time about Fey's need to find her sister. She then asks him again to be her ally. Franco gulps as he turns to put down his glass, then he turns back around, says he accepts her deal, shakes her hand and then stands up.

* Mother S and Nuns pick Aurora up and take her to her bedroom.

* Franco and Barbie finish their agreement discussion.

* Magically, Franco enters Fey's office. He has to explain to Fey about the financial problems with the company. Fey is suspicious about Obregon. Franco continues with explaining that Lili apparently is safe and sound where she is. Fey wonders about Barbie. Franco says that Barbie was indeed behind the kidnapping.

* Damian meets with Priscilla at the hacienda patio. He stuns her with the news that Fey knows about her affair with Vladimir.

* Fey and Franco finish talking about Barbie; Fey restates that he has her promise that she won't tell anyone what they know about Barbie's crimes. Then Fey changes the subject to confessing her thoughts about Santi's search for Aurora. Franco listens quietly as Fey continues to confess her thoughts and problems with her hubby, Vladimir, Jaime Correa, Flor. She apologizes for unloading her family problems on him, and asks if he's uncomfortable about it. He is kind and understanding; he doesn't mind that Fey feels so comfortable with him to trust him like this. He is stunned when Fey reveals Priscilla had an affair with Vladimir.

* Damian tells Priscilla that after Vladimir was fired, Fey revealed that she knows the secret. Priscilla is still stunned. Damian uses the opportunity to solidify his alliance with Priscilla.

* Fey confesses to Franco her idea that when Lili returns, she wants to move with Lili to some place else, to have some peace and tranquility; how much she would love just to escape from her family and all the fights and problems. Franco understands. He listens as she continues to reveal her frustrations and quotes Barbie, her stepmother about family unity.

* Barbie calls Santi on the cell phone. Santi says he has no news or leads about Aurora at the moment. Barbie says she has nothing new to report about Lili either. They hang up. Barbie prays aloud for a chance some day to be with Aurora again.

* Nun brings Aurora tea to her room. As Aurora drinks the tea, the nun sits on her bed. Mother S arrives. Nun leaves. Mother S asks about her illness. Aurora says nothing's wrong. Mother S will call the convent's doctor. Aurora doesn't need to see one. Mother S insists, then asks Aurora when was the last time you saw a doctor? Aurora looks at her confused. Mother then asks when her last cycle was? Aurora is embarrassed. Mother tells her about Santi's visit to the convent today. Aurora gets upset - she doesn't want to see him - she can't see him.

* Santi sits on a park bench, wondering where Aurora is?

* Mother and Aurora continue their discussion about Santi; why Aurora insists that she can't see him. Dr. enters to examine Aurora.

* Franco and Fey have tea in Fey's office. They talk about finding and rescuing Lili. Franco mentions Damian. Fey says that there's no future for her marriage.

* Phantom Ciro reads more entries to Lili from Ana Gregoria's diary. Tonight, Ana Gregoria reveals that this diary has become her very best friend - and that Don Geronimo is the only one who knows she writes in it. (Flashback scene - Ana Gregoria is sweeping in the hallway when Don Gregorio stops her; he wants to read her diary; she refuses to let him, saying it's her secrets; he wonders if they are a secret, too, and says her's a second secret, he kisses her.) Ana Gregoria and Ciro read about her mixed feelings over the kiss. Ciro closes the book and hands it to Lili. He says that her grandpa Don Geronimo had an affair with Ana Gregoria, the mother of Don Artemio, in whose house she is being held. Lili stares at Ciro. ** NOTE: If Don Geronimo looks familiar, it's because it's Anibal with a fake mustache **

* In Villa Madero, Don Silvestre listens as Martina cries about Lili's kidnapping and letting Franco down with her duties. Don Silvestre tries to console his daughter. She really feels horrible about what happened. Don Silvestre repeats that if Franco says don't worry, then there's nothing to worry about. Martina is still shaken and stirred. Don Silvestre tells her to keep the faith.

* At her office, Fey starts to talk about Franco's engagement to Erika and her lousy marriage. Franco thought bubbles how jealous he really is about her marriage to Damian but knows that he has to do this in order to complete his promise to his mom about Lili. Fey sees him silently standing there and thinks he understands everything. Franco states, "Yes, Barbie is going to receive her punishment."

* At the convent, Mother returns to the room and announces to Aurora that she's pregnant. Aurora is stunned.

* In her home office, Barbie thought bubbles how she hyperventilated when Rosenda telling her that the handkerchief was Aurora's only thing she had of her mother. Then she thought bubbles about how she kicked Aurora out of the house, calling her a cheap tramp. Tomasa enters the office to go over the menu for dinner; Barbie asks her to have Fey do it; Tomasa tells her that Fey and Damian will be eating dinner with Franco and Erika tonight.

* At Las Animas, Franco finishes putting on his shoes in his bedroom. He talks with Steve about his deal with the devil Hyena. Steve warns him about the dangers of making a deal with her. Franco knows all that but he can't go back on his word now. Steve continues to warn him, especially about Fey. Franco knows and understands, but insists it's too late to turn back now. Gardenia interrupts - says the guests have arrived. Steve leaves. Gardenia is upset that Franco isn't wearing the shirt she placed on his bed (and sprayed with her herbal cologne). Franco didn't want to wear it, it doesn't go with the pants; she says then she'll find some other pants; he says then he'll have to change his jacket; he says it's too late now, his guests have arrived. He leaves. Gardenia grumbles her frustration about Erika and the engagement.

* At the apartment, Camilo is dreamily enchanted by Lovely. She says that she promised her uncle they would have dinner and go to the movies tonight. He sits her on the couch - he has other ideas for them tonight (he wants to hug and kiss her). She backs out of his reach and starts to call Steve - Camilo continues to try to kiss and hold her. Lovely stands there on the cell phone as he asks about their love life after they are married. She stares at him.

* Steve tells a funny story about Franco at work to Fey, Damian and Erika. Erika is an airhead; Damian has to explain business; Franco has to add his own details to the story. Damian wonders about them living in the U.S. Then he gets the surprise 'light bulb' idea that maybe he and Fey can plan a cruise for the two couples to take together. Fey looks at him, stunned beyond belief.

ADVANCE: The drama continues at the engagement party!

Labels: manana

Macarena tells Carlota that if she sends Paloma to boarding school then she will initiate an investigation into Carlota’s abuses. Carlota is pissed and tries to guilt trip her by saying if my father was alive now and saw what you are doing he would die with shame. Macarena has finally grown a pair and does not back down and says if he saw how you treated Paloma, our parents would not be in agreement. She is fighting for Paloma's liberty. If Carlota forgets about sending Paloma to boarding school then she will not file the paperwork. But if she keeps insisting on sending Paloma then she will file and doesn't care that it will be made public.


Paloma tells Inaki that Carlota was in the room when he called and that's why she couldn't pick up. He tells her to go to the balcony. He is on the street looking up and tells her that he will not allow her aunt to send her to the boarding school. She tells him that she can go to her mother's best friend's house who she knows will hide her until she reaches legal age. (never mind that you haven't seen her in 10 years) Anyway Inaki asks if she knows her last name, but she doesn't remember. But knows that she can ask around for her.

Macarena tells Rufi how nervous she was telling Carlota that she cannot and will not send Paloma to boarding school. Or otherwise she will face the an investigation into her abuses. She tells Rufi that Camila has been a good friend to her and gave her great advice. Rufi asks if she will tell Paloma about her threat to Carlota. Macarena doesn't want her to know the ugliness that is going on. She will tell her that Carlota just changed her mind.


Inaki tells Paloma to find out Natalia's last name and he will help her out.


Rufi starts to make herself a tea that Carlota uses herself. Rufi says when Paloma marries Inaki then you can go out with the doctor. Then we can all leave this house.

Romina tells Emiliano that she is sorry for the way she acted. She felt left out when everything was going down with Paloma and Inaki. But anyway let's talk about my party. Emiliano asks her if she has everything she needs. Romina says everything except my dad. If he would come then the party would be perfect. I had a dream about him and that he came to my party. My dream seemed so real. Emiliano says that he thought she was going to look him up on the Internet. She tells him that she wanted too, but didn't know how to go about it. So she has decided to hire a private detective to do it. Her mother's grandparents left her some money and will get it when she turns 18.


Inaki comes home to find his mother. She acts if everything is okay with Paloma and that she wanted to be with him on his wedding day. She also has something for him. She gives him an engagement ring that belonged to his grandmother. Since he is her only child and Paloma will be part of the family, it just felt right to give it too him. Inaki is moved and says that if you are giving me this then that means you have finally accepted her. Yes she responds. And I will love her like a daughter.

Macarena prays to the virgincita for strength in defending Paloma. She has always wanted to do the best for her.


Cristobal dreams of a funeral with Carlota's voice telling him that he is the only one responsible for the death. He wakes up and says over and over that he is responsible for her death. He prays to god to help him.


Macarena prays that god opens up Carlota's heart.

Carlota is in the kitchen injecting some type of fluid into Macarena's diabetic medicine bottle.

Paloma asks Macarena if she can go to Romina's party. Carlota comes in and Macarena takes the opportunity to tell them both that Carlota has changed her mind and will allow her (Paloma) to go to the party. And of course to set Carlota's mind at ease will accompany Paloma to the party. Paloma is so excited and happy that she hugs them both and off she goes to school. Macarena tells Carlota that she hopes tomorrow she will tell Paloma that she will not be going to the boarding school.

Noel comes to see Camila and brings her the paperwork she requested regarding the factory.

Romina writes a letter to the girl blackmailing her and says that the photos are not real. Find someone else to get money from.

Inaki tells Emiliano that Paloma will be coming to the party tonight. Emiliano finds it odd that Carlota has changed her mind. Inaki says that a package came for him. Emiliano opens it up and shows Inaki the braclet that he had made for Romina.

Romina asks Liliana if she is ready for her party. Liliana tells her she wouldn't be caught dead at her party. A fight starts and Liliana tells Romina that she blames her for German dumping her. Romina says is isn't her fault that men fall in love with her and if German dumped her it's her fault. They keep fighting. A nun comes out asking what's going on. Romina says that Liliana fell in the fountain.

Paloma comes home from school and overhears Carlota on the phone with the boarding school assuring them that she will be there with Paloma in the morning. Carlota demands that Paloma have no contact with anyone outside of the school except for her.

Paloma runs up to Macarena's room to tell her what she heard, but Macarena's sleeping. Rufi will not let her wake up Macarena no matter how much she protests.

Cristobal tells Padre Benito that he cannot go to Real de Monte. He will quit the priesthood.

Emiliano gives Romina her birthday gift. Camila tells Romina to come outside with her eyes closed. Surprise Camila gives her a car. Romina spoiled little brat that she is, is not too happy with it. She thought that she would get a convertible. Camila is crushed and says when she gets more experience she'll get her one. Romina says whatever and tells Emiliano it's time to leave. Camila says don't you want to drive, but Romina says tomorrow. Camila tells them to go ahead and she will follow in a bit. Romina reminds her that the party is for the young crowd and not to stay too long.

Macarena goes into Paloma's room to tell her it's time for the party. She finds a letter from Paloma saying that she has left the house. She overheard Carlota on the phone confirming her appearence tomorrow at the boarding school.

Paloma and Inaki are driving away.

Macarena shows Carlota the letter from Paloma. They argue with Macarena blaming Carlota for Paloma leaving. Carlota says it's not my fault, but that musician. Macarena tells Carlota that you tried to fool us, but this time it did not work. Are you saying that you agree with what she did asks Carlota. No, but I understand responds Macarena. I admire her determination to defend her love for him. Although it has destroyed me. So you are not going to look for her asks Carlota. No, I will respect her decision responds Macarena. And don't you dare contact the police, because I will tell them that I gave her permission to go. Or whatever, as long as you don't find them. Carlota tells her not to even try it. Macarena tells her don't you even try it. I have nothing else to lose.

Inaki asks Paloma what's wrong. Paloma says that she's thinking about all that she left behind, but hopefully one day she can come back. Inaki promises to bring her back once she has turned 18. Paloma wonders what will happen if Carlota calls the police. Inaki says by that time we will be far away. Paloma can't believe that she will be on a plane for the first time and asks Inaki what Madrid is like. Beautiful he replies. And he has an apartment close to the university where he has a job as a music teacher. So don't worry, you will not want for nothing. Paloma tells him that she would love to work. He tells her that she will be busy studying whatever she wants. Paloma says that she is more convinced that her decision to leave with him is for the best. Inaki tells her that she will never regret it and will dedicate his life to make her happy.

Macarena is in her room crying. Rufi tries to comfort her.

Cristobal is praying and Padre Benito joins him. Cristobal tells him that he still wants to leave the priesthood.

Rafael tells Diana that he has 3 months to save the factory or it closes. His business partner wants to close it and that means they have to live off his liquidation until he finds another job. Diana tells Rafael how can he do this to her. Rafael says he has no choice. It is not in his hands. Diana says you cannot be without a job. What are we going to do? Rafael tells her he needs her support right now. Diana says I have done my part. I keep a clean house and have been a perfect mother and wife. Now you have to complete your part. You need to bring money into this house. And I expect that you to keep doing that.

Romina and Emiliano are at the party. Romina asks him what's wrong. Emiliano tells her that he didn't like her attitude towards her mother. What she gave you was nice and you acted like you didn't care. Because I did not like it responds Romina. My mother is rich and she could have bought me the best. I deserve it don't I? Emiliano changes the subject and asks where is Inaki and Paloma? Romina says who knows what happened between Paloma and her aunts. German goes up to them and gives Romina a hug whispering that he wants to caress her and kiss her. He gives her a watch for her birthday. Emiliano asks German where Liliana is. He says they broke up. Emiliano tries to call Inaki, but ends up leaving a message. German wants to work the room.

Macarena goes to Camila and tells her that Paloma and Inaki have run away. She shows Camila the letter from Paloma. They talk about what happened. Macarena wishes that she told Paloma the threat that she told Carlota if she took Paloma to the boarding school. Camila tells her not to blame herself. Inaki is a good man and he will bring her back to you.

Romina stands on the stage and introduces a band to sing at her party. Is this a famous band or made up? I only listen to salsa, so I don't know.

Inaki and Paloma walk into a very nice hotel. She feels weird. He tells her that she will be in one room and he will be in another. He goes up to reception asking for 2 rooms, but the guy tells them that a convention is in town and there are no rooms available. Inaki says that they can sleep in the car and he'll hold her to keep away the cold.

Carlota is rummaging in Paloma's room looking for evidence on her whereabouts.

Camila tries to reassure Macarena that Paloma will be okay. They stand up to say goodbye and Macarena faints. Camila calls the house and asks them to call the doctor.

Tomorrow: Rafael asks Diana if she wants to divorce him; Carlota tells Paloma that she ends up killing everyone she loves; Inaki asks Paloma how she would feel if they got married right away.

Labels: amor

Oh wonderful readers,

You poured out so much great stuff it was too much for one lens, so I made another one, and if there's more, I can make yet another! Here's the second:

Telenovela Fun
The first one:
Telenovelas: a fun, painless way to learn Spanish

(On each lens, the link to the other one is just above the guestbook.)

If you want attribution on something I forgot, let me know. I also may have mis-translated some dichos.

Also, I vaguely remember there was some great discussion on "what is a naco" but I don't remember where. Anybody?

I think squidoo may turn out to be a wonderful place to store peoples lists of interesting stuff that gets lost here at the blog now that it is so huge.

Labels: announcements, telenovelas

Capitulo 20, I think.

Repeats: Alonso thinks Carmen’s done a lousy job of parenting. If only he’d been in charge of the op, Iñaki would be on his way back to Spain without the pretty young thing of his dreams, he’d be bitter at his parents forever for not supporting his decisions, and everyone would be properly miserable, as they should be.

Now: Fortunately, Carmen’s incompetent at life ruination. Unfortunately, Carlota’s had a lot more practice. Paloma shows Macarena the information about the boarding school. From the amount of blubbering going on, I’d guess the brochure highlights the 20-foot walls topped with broken glass, meals of bird droppings, and curriculum of sewer cleaning and self-flagellation. I mean, really. Unless Carlota is planning to join Paloma as her roommate, I don’t see how leaving wouldn’t be an improvement. Anyhoo, Mac swears they won’t let Cruel do this. She’ll come up with a plan. Paloma settles down and all three of Mac’s beaten-down brain cells get to work on it.

Rufi hauls her insanely braided and bow-filled hair, plus a tea tray, into Carlota’s office, where Carl is hard at work, presumably comparing prices of whips and listening devices. Rufi tells her someone named Arcadia called, then hangs about expectantly like Carlota is going to tell her what it’s all about. Carlota brusquely dismisses her and dials Arcadia, but is stymied by a busy signal.

Over in the D.F., Natalia and Alonso stand up in their loft arguing over whether Paloma is a no-good gold-digging troll who is taking advantage of dear stupid Iñaki. That’s Alonso’s opinion. Nat says the daughter of her dear friend surely is not like that, and she’s going to go find Paloma and get to know her again. Alonso thinks that’s an idiotic idea. Surprisingly, neither of them pitches the other over the rail.

Back in the house of gloom, Macarena tells Carlota that if she goes through with her plan to lock Paloma up, she will find out what Mac is capable of. Carlota laughs at that threat.

Rafael tells a sympathetic Emiliano that he didn’t get the loan, so things aren’t looking good for the business. Emiliano tells him not to give up; they can think of something. Diana micromanages Juanita’s serving of the dinner. “Ummm…who is this Juanita?,” asks Rafael. He is politely furious when Diana tells him she MUST have a maid because there is just SOOOO much housework, and Diana stomps out in a fit of pique when he says they can’t afford a maid and they should have discussed it. Emiliano stares at her in disbelief.

The next morning, Paloma collects Romina for their walk to school and she’s fed up with Ro’s cold shoulder. Through the sharing of a little gossip about her past few days, she convinces Romina to hug and make up. Romina still looks sad, and neglects to share her own stories.

Emiliano sits patiently at the breakfast table, watching Juanita pour his coffee and wondering why he couldn’t do that himself for free. Diana beams about the advantages of having a servant. After Juanita flees to the kitchen, Emiliano gently suggests that Di try to understand Rafael’s concerns. She’s persistently obtuse, though, so Emiliano gives her some money to pay Juanita’s salary so that Rafael won’t have to. He’s just the sweetest thing, but this wench has been enabled too long already.

Paloma tells Romina that even though things are straightened out with Iñaki, she’s still not home free because now Cruelota wants to send her to prison school. She swears she won’t go; she’ll run away first. Romina is startled and says she hardly recognizes Paloma, and she likes it. Romina says she’d do the same thing, run away with Iñaki and never communicate with anyone in Real del Monte again. Paloma looks at her suspiciously, or maybe she really likes the idea; hard to tell.

Arcadia is shocked to see Iñaki at home eating breakfast. He asks whether she knows anything about the letter-switching. She denies it in the least believable way possible, but he doesn’t dwell on it and shares the joyous news of his impending marriage. She is stricken, or else scared by the sudden surge of menacing music.

Paloma is in Angélica’s office, doing some more gaspy sobbing. The gasping, to me, is wearing thin. Perhaps she should have her diaphragm examined. Anyway, Paloma says she’s going to run away (fugar). Ange says not to worry; they’ll figure something out.

Iñaki shows up for his first day of work at the platería, dressed more casually than he dresses for an ordinary day of bumming around town and playing the sax. Emiliano gives him some papers to read to see what the business is all about. It sounds like Iñaki is going to be the artistic director or some such. Sure, why not. Iñaki says he won’t let them down. Emiliano warns him to treat Paloma well, and Iñaki says she deserves the best. He tells Em that he is quite a guy and surely will find someone as wonderful as Paloma for himself. Then he lays it on thick, telling Emiliano that if he (Iñaki) wasn’t available (or something), the only guy he’d trust Paloma to would be Emiliano himself. Emiliano thinks that’s overkill on the flattery (he uses the word porra, meaning club or bludgeon), but Iñaki swears it’s true. The lovefest is broken up by Romina calling Emiliano, and Iñaki excuses himself.

Romina, calling from the school restroom, yells at Emiliano for not keeping her up to date on the gossip regarding Paloma and Iñaki. He reminds her that she left him a message saying that she was busy and they couldn’t talk. She yells some more that he’s not fulfilling his novio spy duties. He’s (sigh) too polite to point out that he tried to break up with her. Why did he take her back, now? The whining? The begging? As Tontas Patricio would say, no está sexy. Although it worked on him for quite awhile, as well. Emiliano says he’s busy and hangs up.

Romina huffs into class late and finds an envelope on her desk, full of pictures of hot Germy smooching. She gets all riled up and Paloma asks her what’s wrong, but she doesn’t say. A note on the envelope asks her what the photos are worth to her.

Henchwoman Arcadia calls Cruelota to report that Iñaki didn’t actually leave. Arcadia is afraid because he’s asking questions about the letters. Anyway, the upshot is that he and Paloma plan to marry. Carlota turns a deep purple shade of incensed.

Romina brushes Paloma off and rushes home after school. Iñaki is hiding in the bushes, pretending to be a gardener, and calls Paloma over. She tells him about the boarding school threat. He swears it will never happen. He will not let her aunt separate them.

Macarena sobs to Camila that she can’t let Carlota send Paloma away. Camila gets super worked up over the matter, and says Mac must do something. She wonders how Carlota has so much authority in the first place. Mac tells her that she has a secret, and if it came out Carlota would lose her hold over the family, but Mac would lose Paloma’s love and respect. Camila gets a bit frustrated wondering what kind of secret could be worth all this abuse. She tells Mac that there are legal limits to what Cruel can do, and she’s willing to help Mac put an end to this. (Private note to Macarena: If you have a big secret, the surefire best course of action is to tell it to absolutely everyone. Either they won’t believe you, or they’ll think it’s not shameful since you’re so upfront about it. Hiding things makes them a million times worse. Seriously.)

Paloma tells Cruelota that it’s true; she does plan to marry that musician, and nothing will stop them. Cruelota sees that as a challenge. She says she’s in charge of the household, and she says no. Y punto. “Nice try,” says Paloma. “Thanks for all the years of food and shelter, but that doesn’t buy you control of my whole life. As soon as I turn 18 I’m getting married and leaving you in the dust.” “Over my dead body,” says Cruelota. “That would be lovely,” thinks Paloma.

Cruelota stomps to her room and glares menacingly into the camera in closeup. I have to hide behind my computer so she can’t see me. That demon is scary.

Romina paces her room, fretting over the pictures. She tears them up, as if that will help. She sends Emiliano a text message of conniving lurve. He glances at it and goes back to his work.

Iñaki, who doesn’t seem to have a whole lot of work to do, drops by Germán’s office. Germy spills the frijoles about his sordid encounters with Romina. Iñaki is disapproving when he finds out that Romina hasn’t broken up with Emiliano and Germy is planning to ditch Liliana but hasn’t yet done so. He doesn’t think that Germ and Ro’s passion and sneaking around equals love, and it’s not worth betraying a friend. Germy tries to convince himself that it will all be fine and Em won’t care.

Camila convinces Macarena to see a lawyer and put an end to Carlota’s abuse of power. It takes some pep talking, but eventually Mac decides she can’t let Paloma and herself down; it’s high time she stood up to her sister. Indeed.

Carmen arrives at home with her suitcase, having apparently stayed overnight in Mexico City for that fun fight with her ex-husband, and lets Arcadia know that she’s pretty sure she knows who’s responsible for the big mail mixup (Carlota, with an assist from SOMEONE inside Carmen’s house), and she’s going to find proof. Arcadia shakes in her ugly orthopedic shoes and plays dumb.

Paloma uses the new cell phone Iñaki gave her to call Iñaki’s phone, but it’s sitting on Emiliano’s desk and Em answers. Paloma tells him she’s worried Auntie Maim will stop her and Iñaki from marrying, but Emiliano assures her that they won’t let that happen. She thanks him for all his support and says te quiero and he returns the sentiment.

Romina crosses paths with Iñaki by the fountain. He tries to hide and pretend he doesn’t see her, but he doesn’t get away with it. She congratulates him on his engagement. He makes some pointed remarks about love and fidelity. “Why do you say all that?,” she bluffs. “No reason. Just saying.” Romina pretends he’s talking about her kissing him when he was drunk, and says she’s willing to pretend it didn’t happen. “Oh, you’re always thinking of others. But I meant EVERYTHING ELSE that happened that night.” “Quit talking in circles.” “Why? You’re smart. You know exactly what I mean.” “If you weren’t the fiancé of my best friend I would never speak to you.” “If you weren’t the best friend of my fiancée and the novia of my best friend, I would dare to say a whole lot more. See you at your party tomorrow!” Great scene.

Paloma and Emiliano are still on the phone, and Paloma is saying how she wishes she could be more like Romina, with her freedom. Emiliano tells her not to compare herself to anyone. She’s maaaaahhhvelous, dahling, just the way she is.

Carlota gets so furious thinking about Paloma’s insubordination that she flings a glass ball at a mirror and smashes it. Rufi runs in, alarmed, only to get thrown out. Then Carlota finds her trembling in the hall and yells at her to go get a broom.

Macarena meets with the lawyer. He thinks they have a good case but asks whether she’s prepared to face the consequences, as this will be public record. She decides she is.

Romina sashays into Germán’s office and hangs up his comically huge phone in the middle of his business conversation. She’s mad that he dished to Iñaki, but he swears he is a tomb. So she transfers her anger to Iñaki for being such an estupido, and Germy tells her “no te enganches.” Engancharse means to get caught, but it seems like he’s telling her to lay off Iñaki and not blame him for the problems she’s causing herself. They inch closer and closer until Liliana loudly asks whether she’s interrupting. Romina pretends she’s just there to deliver an envelope. Couriers are now apparently requiring saliva samples instead of signatures. Romina tells Germy to clear things up with Iñaki, and she departs.

After she’s gone, Germy tells Liliana they’re over. It’s not her, it’s him. He just has so many things going on in his head…

“No, you only have one thing in your head, and it’s Romina,” says Liliana. She’s all teary but I don’t know why; they were barely dating and I don’t know how she managed to get so attached.

Iñaki is finally back at work, but not working. He and Emiliano have coffee and talk about Paloma. Iñaki calls Paloma and her phone rings. It’s cute how she has the phone lying in bed in the dollhouse. Carlota walks in to give Paloma her packing orders, and the phone continues to vibrate quite audibly behind Paloma’s back as Cruel continues her dictator rant. Carlota amazingly doesn’t seem to notice, but she sits in a chair to make sure the packing happens so there is no phone answering. Iñaki looks concerned.

Joel has coffee with Camila and proposes that she join their business. She’s into the idea, but they agree that Rafael can’t find out that Joel asked.

Rafael meets again with the cold, uncaring business partner. Mr. Partner is unmoved by Rafa’s arguments and says if Rafa can’t buy him out, the factory will close.

Natalia wears terrible pants to mass at Cristóbal’s church. After the mass, she shares the juicy gossip that her stepson is going to marry her friend Sagrario’s daughter. Isn’t it an amazing coincidence? Cris isn’t quite sure what to make of that information.

Macarena tells Carlota that her reign of terror is over. Cruel laughs and says there’s no way Paloma is going to marry that musicocho, which is apparently a denigrating way of saying musician; who knew there was one? Mac says she’s started a legal investigation into Carlota’s abuses. Carlota is speechless.

Avances: Cruel calls the boarding school to tell them to strictly prohibit phone calls and visits for Paloma, as Paloma eavesdrops. Cris tells the boss priest he’ll have to hang up his vestments. Mac finds a note.

Labels: amor

When last we left things, Vlad the Impregnator was getting fired by Anibal the decidedly non-impregnator. Flor got to hand him his box of personal effects (notebooks with "Vlad + Pris = 4 ever" written all over them, a picture of Pris with little hearts drawn all over it, and a battered copy of "Men Who Love Their Baby Mama Too Much"), which she refrained from hitting him about the head with.

Pris reports to Damian than Fer and Franco talked in the library. Damian wants some more concrete proof. Pris wonders if he wants Fer back, or wants revenge. Damian says, duh, I want her back so I can get revenge. Pris finally puts one and one together and figures out he doesn't love her. Damian's phone rings and it's Vlad. He asks Damian to find Priscila and tell her (Damian turns on the speakerphone) that her husband fired him and treated him like a dog and that if he didn't tell Anibal anything it's so that nothing bad happens to Pris or the baby, but she'd better not try to keep him away from his baby. He threatens that neither Ani or Pris know what he's capable of. He's making this call from a bathroom at Lactos. Damian tells him to meet him at his house and hangs up on him. Damian tells Pris to take care of getting evidence on Fer and he'll take care of Vlad.

Franco and Esteve sit outside having breakfast and talking about Franco needing to come up with a birth certificate so he can go through with the marriage to Erika. Esteve says he's either got to tell Erika his real name or "better still" he should use his fake ID to get a marriage certificate. Erika joins their chat. Esteve goes off to get her some coffee and Erika proposes that she and Franco go riding and then get something to eat. She's brought him the list of acceptable paperwork so that they can get their marriage license. Gardenia comes out of the house and very bitchily tells Erika and Franco that there will be no coffee as they've run out since nobody ever gets more of anything even when she tells them they're running out. Correct me if I'm wrong, but (a) isn't that her job? And (b) I thought she was told she'd be a "personal assistant" and not a maid? She runs off, in a hurry to get coffee. Erika, who misses clues about everything else, catches that Gardenia is jealous. She also supposes that Gardenia isn't looking forward to having Erika move in and start giving her orders. The boys could make a lot of money selling tickets to that catfight.

At the Grupo Lactos offices, Don Gonzalo arrives and tells Flor he's really happy to see her again. He apologizes for doubting her loyalty. Flor says it's good that everything's all cleared up. Don G blows some more smoke up her butt about what a great person she is. Yeah, considering she's not suing you for wrongful termination and that she's not asking for pay for the time she lost (or so I'd guess). Vlad the Impregnator comes into the lobby, calling to Don Gonzalo. Security is lousy around this place. Vlad explains he needs to talk directly to Don G, Anibal won't do. And Flor's so loyal and helpful she doesn't bother either calling security or telling Gonzo that Vlad has been fired.

Pris wonders if Vlad told Anibal that he's sterile and the baby can't be his. Damian doesn't think so. He thinks Vlad's too afraid of losing Pris and probably figures if he's nice enough to her, he'll end up with Pris. She wonders how Damian's going to control him, but Damian doesn't have a clue, as evidenced by him not answering the question and telling her not to worry about it. Pris says she's so worried and the only think she can think of is making him disappear. Damian thinks that if Vlad did say something about being the baby daddy, no one would believe him because they'd all think he's just angry about getting fired. Pris says he's obsessed with the baby. Damian tells her to shut it because she's like a magpie ("urraca") or a macaw ("guacamaya"; figuratively also means a loudmouth). Hm, so what animal does Damian most resemble?

Don Gonzalo tells someone over the phone that milk consumption is dropping because of the economy. Blah, blah, blah. Then he's done with the phone call--it was some kind of interview. Vlad tells Gonzo that he's been at the company for not very long. Flor barges in with coffees for both of them and tells Gonzo that Anibal asked for him. Gonzo says he'll talk to him when he's done with Vlad. She makes a face, but doesn't say anything and leaves. Vlad says that whether Gonzo knows it or not, Pris, his daughter-in-law…and now Fernanda busts in. She calls Vlad to her office. Gonzo wonders QTH is going on and Fer makes an excuse about the bank in Chicago needing to talk to him. They leave the room. Par for the course--Gonzo looks confused (the poor actor must see that written on his script five or six times a page). Gonzo says the boy looks worried, but his worries can't be more than Gonzo's…oh, what's happening with his Lili?

Fer ushers Vlad into her office and tells Flor to make sure they're not disturbed. Flor smirks as she shuts the door. Ha, ha, there's no call from the bank. Fer wants to know what Vlad was talking to Daddy Dumbest about.

Erika wonders where they should have their dinner with Fernanda and Damian. Erika says on the one hand, her house might be easier, but on the other hand, she really likes this house and besides, Steve is here. She cracks up laughing when Franco asks when the dinner is: "Oh, you silly, it's tonight! I can't believe you forgot! I even reminded you last night! Ji, ji, ji." I have to stop and detach my eyes from the roof of the sockets. They tend to get stuck there, especially when Erika's on screen. As they say where I'm from "love her to death, poor old thing." Erika says not to worry, she'll prepare the dinner and it will be delish. Franco takes a call from Florecita. Barbie wants to talk to him. Flor connects the call. Barbie summons him to her office, urgently. As she's not used to being disobeyed, she doesn't bother waiting for an answer. Erika looks slightly worried when Franco says he's needed at Lactos. Erika mimes scratching their horse ride and having trout ("trucha") out of an agenda. She says it's no big deal, she understands that without him Lactos and the Elizaldes would be lost.

Fernanda asks Vlad if he thinks Gonzo will take back Anibal's order after he's been fired. He brings up that they did it with Flor. Fer mocks him and says it's a little different--Flor's been with them for 16 years. She thinks that Vlad wasn't going to talk to Gonzo about work problems, she thinks Vlad was going to tell Gonzo that he and Pris are sleeping together.

Erika gives Franco a goodbye kiss, but Esteve and Lovely come over before she goes. Erika invites Lovely to her engagement dinner, but Esteve declines on her behalf and announces that Lovely is also engaged. She wants to invite Lovely and her fiancé, but Franco says that's not a good idea because Lovely's fiancé is Camilo. Erika looks upset.

Fernanda tells Vlad that she's not judging, but she's also not going to let him use his affair with Pris to hurt the family. Fernanda says his being there has hurt enough people and she's not letting him hurt anyone else, so he'd better go. Vlad tells her it was never his intention to hurt anyone. He leaves. Well, leaves her office at least.

Santiago has hired a local locksmith to get him into Dominga's old house by saying his girlfriend just forgot to give him the key. Santiago pays him a big wad of cash for the job. The guy goes off to make a key for the house. Inside everything is dusty and looks pretty thoroughly cleaned out. Santi sits on Aurora's old mattress and wonders where Aurora is.

She's trying to talk the Madre Superior into letting her take orders. And asking MS not to tell anyone she's there. MS is wondering who Aurora is running from, but all she says is "a man."

The locksmith gives Santi a key and leaves again. Santi starts checking all the drawers in a chest of drawers, then the armoire. He finds Aurora's old school notebook in the armoire and it seems to trigger something. He looks at the front cover.

The Madre Superior wonders if the person she's hiding from is the guy she was going to marry, Santiago Elizalde. There's a knock at the door and Hermana Fidelia enters. Hermana Fidelia is to get Aurora ready for retreat. MS advises her to pray for serenity and to pray for her soul for the choice she's making. After they leave MS wonders what separated the pair, since they looked so in love.

Erika comes over to confront Camilo about marrying Lovely. She admits she hasn't been able to stop thinking about him, because he's unforgettable--like cancer, like plague. She says she's sorry he's getting married, because Lovely, in her innocence thinks she's getting to heaven, when really he's more like "the tanned tour guide to hell." Oh, that was priceless. Should you care to render an identical insult in the original language, that would be "el guía de turistas bronceado del infierno." Erika says it makes her happy to know she's marrying Franco, and Camilo is finally paying the price for all his whoring around. Meanwhile, she's madly twirling a ring around on her finger. She works herself up into telling him she hates him, then slaps him across the face with the stone on the ring turned in, leaving a bloody scratch on his face.

Flor assures Fernanda that Vlad finally left, but he didn't talk to Gonzo. Franco shows up. He says he doesn't know if there's news, but he's been summoned by Evil Barbie. Flor lets EB know that Franco is here. Franco is surprised to realize that when Fernanda said "And when you're done could you stop by my office," what she really meant was, "The desk in my office may not be very comfortable but my door has a lock and I'm tired of waiting!" He agrees to meet with her after he talks to Barbie.

Vlad gets home to find Damian waiting for him on the couch. Dam reminds him they had a date, er, an appointment. Vlad is pissed that Damian didn't wait for him outside and that Damian still has his keys. Damian throws they keys in Vlad's general direction (drink!). Damian asks what happened. Vlad accuses Pris of being hysterical, paranoid, and crazy. Damian is annoyed that Vlad doesn't think he has anything better to do all day than deal with his problems with Pris. Damian says he's been helping him out, but Vlad doesn't think so because: (1) his baby mama wants to steal his baby, (2) he got kicked out of Lactos like a dog, and (3) it was Damian's wife who get him fired. Vlad lets Damian in on the fact that Fernanda knows that Vlad and Pris slept together. Damian seems genuinely surprised.

Evil Barbie's looking trampalicious today, in a black, off-the-shoulder number. Oh, wow, that's not even technically off-the-shoulder, it's strapless with arm bands. She points out that Franco looks tense. He says he's tense and uncomfortable because even though the doesn't know her well, he knows nothing guarantees she'll keep their arrangement. He says he's realized he's at a disadvantage and he refuses to go on unless they get on even footing. Barbie sits him down and tells him he knows more about her than anyone else in the world--he knows about Damian, he knows that Obregon worked for her, he has Lili's recording, and he knows Barbie had something to do with her disappearance. Barbie says with that info, she could be sent to jail for the rest of her life, but all she knows about Franco is that he tried to seduce Fernanda and that his real name probably isn't Franco Santoro. Barbie says it's odd that Franco hasn't turned her into the cops. Franco says it's odd that Barbie hasn't turned him in to Gonzalo for putting the moves on his daughter. Barbie claims that it's because since she met him she thought he'd make an excellent partner. The problem, as Franco points out, is that partners usually work together for a common goal and their goals are in opposition. He says that threatening to kill Lili if he goes to the police isn't a partnership, it's blackmail. Tomato, tomatoh, says Barbie. Franco says their deal is off if she doesn't hand over Lili.

At Casa Evil, Lili is still stroking the diary. Artemio and Jr. Henchwoman #1 enter. JH1 points out to Artemio that Lili did eat breakfast today. She takes the tray and leaves. Artemio observes that not only is Lili reading the diary, she also doesn't want it taken away from her. He tells her not to worry about that--he, more than anyone else, wants her to read it. He promises everything she reads in it is true and walks out. Lili sets the diary down and summons Ciro with the power of her mind. Ciro continues reading to her:

"I got scared when I saw that Soledad had noticed the present that Don Jeronimo Elizalde had given me…"

In sepia flashback, Soledad thinks it's weird that Don J gave Ana Gregoria a book with nothing in it. Ana Gregoria explains it's not that kind of book. It's a diary, a book where one writes about one's life. Ana Gregoria hugs the diary and smiles.

"But what I didn't tell Soledad is that a diary is a lover's gift. Oh my God! Could it be possible? Don Jeronimo is the boss and Mrs. Altagracia would kill me if she found out her husband was giving me presents."

Ciro and Lili put together that the Soledad in Ana Gregoria's diary is Eddie's mom.

Fernanda, in the midst of fighting with her computer, stops to remember seeing Lili at her new house. She wonders where Lili is and swears she'd give her life to end this nightmare. She asks how to make Lili feel, from a distance, as if Fer is with her. She buzzes Flor on the intercom and asks if Franco has left the Dragon Lady's den yet. Flor replies that he hasn't.

Damian wonders how Fernanda found out about Vlad and Pris. Vlad says only Damian knows, so of course, he must have told Fer in a moment of passion. Damian throws a crutch at him (drink!). He says he and Fer haven't had a night of passion. Vlad says that Pris must have told her, but Damian doesn't think that's possible or Pris would lose her status as the mother of the heir. Damian wonders, if Fer knows this, what else does she know? Vlad says he's losing patience and he wants to tell the Elizaldes that it's his kid. Damian says that would be a huge mistake and he should be afraid of the E family, because they've got money and power. And besides, no one would believe him, they'd just think he's throwing a tantrum for being fired. "What do I do? Shoot myself?" Vlad asks. Damian tells him to wait. "How long? 15 or 20 years? Or until he graduates from college?" Damian tells Vlad to give him his other crutch, he's leaving. He tells Vlad not to do anything until he finds out how much Fernanda knows. He says he's going to have to play blind, deaf, and dumb in order to do this, but maybe he'll get back some of his marriage. Dude, I don't care what you do, she's not sleeping with you.

Evil Barbie says she finds it hard to believe that Franco is doing all this just to get Lili back. She says this as she locks her office door. Bow, chicka, bow, bow. Franco says he'll give her a really good reason, but only after he gets some information…some vital information…but then my DVR cuts off, so someone else will have to tell me what vital information he's looking for!

Labels: manana

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